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Evita Opens to Rave Reviews

Andrew Lloyd Webber & Tim Rice’s masterpiece
Evita Opens to Rave Reviews



Featuring some of the greatest musical theatre
songs ever, including Don’t Cry For Me Argentina


Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice’s masterpiece, EVITA -- the story of the glamorous first lady of Argentina, Eva Perón -- has opened in Auckland to rave reviews.

"The show delivers captivating energy at all the crucial moments," says NZ Herald.

"This production would stand up well on the London stage," says Theatreview.

"This musically complex work is a wonderful opportunity to revisit Evita," says Newshub.

Featuring some of the world’s best-loved musical theatre songs, including Don’t Cry for Me Argentina, this is the first premiere musical theatre season to be staged at the Bruce Mason Centre since its relaunch by Auckland Live.

This critically acclaimed production will run until 18 June with no extension possible. Tickets are available via Ticketmaster. Presented by Amici in association with Auckland Music Theatre – the team behind the smash-hit Mamma Mia! and Phantom of the Opera at The Civic theatre, EVITAis set in Buenos Aires between 1934-1952, and charts the rags-to-riches rise of the First Lady of Argentina, who won the love of her countrymen after marrying Argentine dictator Juan Peron.

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Eva takes us on a journey from fatherless child to ambitious actress to the most powerful woman in Latin America – and, eventually, to a saint-like figure after her death from cancer at age 33. She is played by award-winning New Zealand actress Heather Wilcock while Juan Peron is played by Russell Dixon -- a veteran of the New Zealand and West End stage. The production features lavish costuming and sets designed by Stephen Robertson, brought to life with a cast of 46 performers assembled from throughout New Zealand.

“Stephen Robertson's set design is magnificent,” says Theatreview.

The events in Eva’s life are presented in song and editorialised on by the show’s narrator, Che – played by Matt Pike whose credits include an international tours of Jesus Christ Superstar and Cats, a highlight playing Munkustrap for the 10 year anniversary of Cats in Hamburg. Other credits include Miss Saigon (Engineer in the NZ premier Chch and Chris in Wellington); Cabaret (Emcee); Jacque Brel is Alive and Well and Living in Paris; Starlight Express (Electra); and Blood Brothers (Narrator).

EVITA has music by Andrew Lloyd Webber and lyrics by Tim Rice. Harold Prince staged the original London and New York productions. Elaine Paige earned an Olivier Award for creating the role in London. Patti LuPone, who starred in the 1979 Broadway staging, earned a Tony Award for her work alongside Tony winner Mandy Patinkin as Che. EVITA also earned the 1980 Tony Awards for Best Musical, Best Score, Best Book and Best Direction.

"Evita is here for a limited time only, so make sure you experience her story while you can," says Theatreview.


Season details
Venue: Bruce Mason Centre, Takapuna, Auckland
Dates: NOW until 18 June
Tickets: Ticketmaster.co.nz
Prices: $25 to $80
evitanz.com | facebook.com/Evita

ends

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