Review: Evita UK Tour arrives at the King's Theatre Glasgow
A bustling King’s Theatre in Glasgow welcomed the return of the much loved Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber musical Evita last night.
Following the extraordinary life of Eva Peron, wife of former Argentine dictator Juan Peron, from young and ambitious beginnings, Evita features some of the most famous and inspiring stage music ever written, including the classic songs Don’t Cry For Me Argentina, On This Night of a Thousand Stars, Oh What A Circus, You Must Love Me, Another Suitcase in Another Hall and High Flying Adored. This remarkable musical is in Glasgow THIS WEEK ONLY as part of a European tour.
Abigail Jaye, Earl Carpenter and Mark Powell lead the enthusiastic and energetic cast in this well-rounded production. Playing an inspiring Eva Peron, Abigail Jaye confidently takes the audience on Eva's journey from a naïve teenager to high-flying figurehead with self-assurance, style and heartbreaking emotion in the final scenes.
The inimitable Earl Carpenter plays Juan Peron effortlessly with strength, charisma and a softness that aids the creation of a touching and credible relationship between Eva and Peron. Che's anti-establishment and non-conformist attitude is beautifully captured by Mark Powell who uses it to scene-stealing effect throughout. Sasha Ransley’s magical performance of Another Suitcase in Another Hall brings to life one of the show’s best loved songs with emotion and poise.
The lively choreography brings Argentinean flair to the production and is executed skilfully by the cast. Peron’s Latest Flame and Rainbow High particularly benefit from these stylish and enjoyable ensemble pieces. Rainbow High also deserves a mention for its visually striking and memorable ending. I won't give it away but it certainly shines!
As a touring production the scenery is moved manually which can be slightly distracting at times with one or two lighting cues that unnecessarily highlight those moving the scenery. That aside, it is extremely flexible and adapts to create visually attractive scenes, especially when used as a church with lit pillars.
We think this rich production of a classic musical is definitely a must see - catch it while you can!
PERFORMANCES
Tue 7 – Sat 11 June
Mon – Sat eves 7.30pm
Wed & Sat mats 2.30pm
Tickets: £14.50 - £33.50
Box Office 08448 717 648 (Bkg fee)
www.ambassadortickets.com/glasgow (bkg fee)
Tickets bought in person at the theatre box office do not carry a booking fee.
