Actors get into fine voice for Evita musical

Actors get into fine voice for Evita musical

8 February 2017

AFTER their award winning production of Sunset Boulevard last year, St Patrick’s Choral Society is preparing to bring another Andrew Lloyd-Webber masterpiece to the stage of Downpatrick’s Great Hall this March.  

The amateur dramatic company, which boasts a membership of over 60 players ranging from children to lifelong members, has been granted a special license by the Really Useful Group to perform the monumental sEvita.

The stage show, similar to the hit movie version which starred Madonna and Antonio Banderes, concentrates on the life of Argentine political leader Eva Perón, the second wife of Argentine president Juan Perón. The story follows Eva’s early life, rise to power, charity work, and eventual death, presented through a stunning score which will be played by a live, 16-piece orchestra made up of some of Northern Ireland’s finest musicians. Leading the interpretation of this challenging score is the society’s musical director, Matthew Campbell.

“There is something very special about a musical such as Evita,” said Matthew. “It handles a remarkable piece of world history so elegantly whilst also dissecting it, allowing us to discover the fascinating life that the Perons led. And all of this happens amongst some of the most beautiful music penned by Lloyd-Webber and Tim Rice in my opinion.”

This is the first time that this gigantic musical will be staged in the Down area. Normally, the musical is only available to perform as a School Edition for youths aged 21 and 

under, however St Patricks have been granted a special license to perform the full production, which is “very exciting” according to its chairman, Brian McElroy.

“St Patrick’s has always strived to involve as many of our members as possible be it on stage or off, so we are delighted that we have been granted a full license for this production allowing us to involve our entire company,” said Brian.

Directed by AIMS Nominated Gary Warnock and choreographed by Kathryn-Anne Simspon, this version of Evita involves a cast and crew of almost 70 people, including those from primary school age up to some of the society’s lifelong members.

Evita runs from Wednesday, March 22nd to Saturday March 25 in The Great Hall at the Downshire Estate in Downpatrick. Tickets are on sale now from Downpatrick Tourist Information Centre or by calling 028 4461 2233. Advanced booking is advised.