The Margaret River Theatre Group will bring its much-anticipated winter production to Cowaramup next month.
Musical director, pianist and vocalist Ian Smith cites a recent birthday trip to New York City as inspiration for the cabaret-style revue.
“MRTG Loves Broadway is a collection of some of our favourite songs from Broadway musicals, Mr Smith said.
“We’re really excited about this show because we are trying something a little different this time, having it all about the music and the singers rather than a standard theatre production.”
Mr Smith said the group was aiming to deliver a sophisticated, contemporary performance.
“Some of the songs are quite different from their original Broadway performances.
“Our band and vocalists have been working on their own interpretations of these songs, so rather than seeing a character you are seeing the performer.”
Music from old favourites Grease, Jesus Christ Superstar, Les Miserables and The Sound of Music will be performed by a live band, with a whole new set of songs performed over two weekends.
“To be honest, we found it impossible to cut the songs we wanted to include in the show,” Mr Smith admitted, adding that the cast also had their own lists of “must haves”.
“We had a few funny meetings where we attempted to whittle the list down to a decent size, but there was a time there when I thought we would be asking people to sit through four hours of music!”
Songs from more recent musicals such as Wicked, Matilda, Kinky Boots and Avenue Q will also feature thanks to Mr Smith’s musical-filled travels.
“I spent almost all of my New York trip firmly locked in Broadway’s embrace; I saw 14 shows in 12 days and I came home feeling like we needed to bring a bit of that magic to our audiences.”
Duggan Pavilion will be transformed into a sophisticated, New-York-cocktail style venue to set the mood and caterer Cowaramup Food will sell warming meals to accompany local wines and beers.
“Come along, enjoy some wonderful singing and reminisce – some of these songs have really strong connections with childhood, past loves and fantastic memories.
You will be blown away by the calibre of singers and musicians in this town, we are very very lucky to have such a pool of talent to draw from and produce these fantastic events.”
MRTG Loves Broadway will land at Duggan Pavilion on September 2, 3, 9 and 10 with music starting from 7.30pm.
Tickets can be booked online at www.mrtg.com.au, by calling Arts Margaret River on 9758 7316 or from the ArtsMR box office.
