Evita at the Empress Theatre

I was really excited to see a production of Evita at the Empress Theatre last night because, even though it is one of my favorite musicals, I hadn't seen it in a really long time. Featuring music by Andrew Lloyd Webber and lyrics by Tim Rice, the story follows Eva Peron (Sophia Morrilla Mancilla) on her journey from impoverished teenager, to ambitious actress in Buenos Aires, to wife of military leader Juan Peron (Ben Tutor), to first lady of Argentina, and, finally, to sainthood as told by the fictional character of Che (Armando Serrano Huerta) who serves as both the narrator and a representative of the working class who provides commentary on Eva's character and actions. I really enjoyed Mancilla's performance because, not only does she have a beautiful voice, but her characterization of Eva is multi-layered. She brilliantly portrays the young girl desperate to escape her circumstances in "Buenos Aires," the scheming actress willing to manipulate her way to the top in "Goodnight and Thank You," the seductress in "I'd Be Surprisingly Good for You," the power-hungry mastermind in "A New Argentina," the passionate leader seeking adulation in "Don't Cry for Me Argentina," the superstar in "Rainbow High," the defiant survivor in "Waltz for Eva and Che," and the emotional invalid trying to come to terms with her imminent death and legacy in "You Must Love Me" and "Eva's Final Broadcast" with subtle gestures and facial expressions and I could definitely tell that this role meant a lot to her. Huerta is incredibly charismatic and energetic as Che and his interactions with Mancilla are a highlight. I also liked that he is costumed as a descamisado rather than a military leader. Tutor showcases both Peron's gravitas and vulnerability and I especially loved his rendition of "She Is a Diamond."  The ensemble is also very strong in this production. It is an intimate theater with a small cast so I could really hear individual voices and I was blown away by the talent! The choreography is really fun to watch, particularly the tango in "On This Night of a Thousand Stars" and I loved the clever use of a card game in the staging of "The Art of the Possible" and the dramatic marching in formation during "Peron’s Latest Flame."  The stage is dominated by the facade of the Casa Rosada, complete with an imposing balcony that is put to good use in "Don’t Cry for Me Argentina," with minimal pieces brought on and off stage by the ensemble and the period costumes are very effective in evoking a specific time and place.  Finally, I loved the use of the red ceibo flower as a recurring motif symbolizing strength.  I highly recommend this stirring production which runs through May 25 (go here for tickets).

Note:  I became a fan of this musical when I saw Elaine Paige, who originated the role of Eva Peron in the West End production of Evita, perform "Don't Cry for Me Argentina" in concert with the Utah Symphony many years ago!