Spinning Tree Theatre presents AMADEUS This Spring

The power struggle between two musical geniuses in 18th century Vienna is at the center of Peter Shaffer's play "Amadeus" that will be presented by Spinning Tree Theatre, April 28 through May 15 at the Arts Asylum, 1000 E. 9th St., Kansas City, Missouri.

"Amadeus" features two of Kansas City's finest actors, Robert Gibby Brand in the role of Antonio Salieri, the nemesis of the young Mozart, and Walter Coppage as the Emperor Joseph II. Michael Reiser makes both his professional and Spinning Tree debut in the title role of the gifted composer Amadeus Wolfgang Mozart. Spinning Tree Co-founder Michael Grayman directs.

The Spinning Tree production will be performed on a three-quarters thrust stage bringing the audience closer to the action in the two-act play.

In true Spinning Tree fashion, this production of "Amadeus" will focus on both Shaffer's excellent script and the talents of the high caliber local cast assembled to perform the work.

"We are taking 'Amadeus' - traditionally seen in huge houses with lavish productions - and bringing to it roots," Grayman said. "We are taking its theatrical clothes off, stripping of its opulence and taking its to it essence."

Grayman and Spinning Tree Co-Founder Andrew Parkhurst have wanted to include "Amadeus" in a Spinning Tree season for some time.

"It is a piece we have loved for years," Parkhurst said. "It is a gorgeous piece of theater that transports people. It seemed like the perfect time to include it in our season."

The story of "Amadeus" focuses on the bitter rivalry of the young musical genius - Mozart - versus the established court composer Salieri, brilliant but tortured by this competition. Shaffer's work digs into how human ambition can destroy one's soul.

Both matinee and evening tickets for "Amadeus" are available by calling Spinning Tree Theatre (816) 569-5277 or online at www.spinningtreetheatre.com.

Tickets are $25-$40 and student tickets are $20. A discount is offered for groups of 10 or more; seating is limited.

"Amadeus" is the final offering in Spinning Tree Theatre's fifth season. Spinning Tree Theatre recently announced its 2016-2017 season that will include "Lady Day at Emerson's Bar and Grill," Aug. 18-Sept. 3; the Kopit-Yeston musical "Nine," Nov. 3-20; "Shipwrecked: An Entertainment - The Amazing Adventures of Louis de Rougemont (as told by Himself)," Feb. 9-27, 2017; and the Sondheim musical "Assassins," April 27-May 13, 2017. Season tickets are now on sale.

Spinning Tree Theatre aims to produce works that celebrate and reflect the diversity of Kansas City itself by exploring a variety of cultures and art forms through theatre, music and dance. Our goal is to present new, contemporary and classic pieces that are relevant, thought provoking and entertaining. We hope to educate, challenge, stimulate and inspire audience and artist alike.

*Cast of "Amadeus" (role and actor)

Antonio Salieri: Robert Gibby Brand
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart: Michael Reise
Emperor Joseph II: Walter Coppage
Kapellmeister Bonno, Cook: Jay Coombes
Count Johann Kilian Von Strack: Jordan Fox
Constanze Weber: Megan Herrera
Katherina Calvalieri: Teal Holliday
Majordomo, Valet: Peter Leondedis
Venticello 2: Amber McKinnon
Baron Gottfried van Swieten: Andy Penn
Count Franz Orsini-Rosenberg: Matthew Schmidli
Venticello I: Bob Wearing
Teresa Salieri, Citizen: Shelley Wyche