'Virtuosa,' Words & Music of Clara Schumann, at NYMF 9/19

The New York Musical Theatre Festival presents the New York premiere of Virtuosa, Clara Schumann in Words and Music, by Diane Seymour.  The production features Katrina Ferguson and Allison Brewster Franzetti in this two-person show that includes live performance of the music of Robert Schumann, Clara Schumann and Johannes Brahms. 

Performances are Wednesday, September 19 at 8PM and Thursday, September 20 at 12PM & 4PM.  All tickets are $20.   For reservations please call 212-352-3101 or visit www.nymf.org to purchase tickets online. The 45th Street Theatre is located at 354 West 45th Street (between 8th and 9th Avenues).

"Virtuosa is a unique blend of theatrical and musical story-telling and a tour de force for the masterful actress and accomplished pianist who take the audience on an emotional journey through the loves and passions, the triumphs and despairs of Clara Wieck Schumann," state press notes, "Clara was the European child prodigy molded by a tyrannical father who conquered Europe at the age of nine, who made the work of Robert Schumann famous, who inspired the young Johannes Brahms, and who overcame obstacle after obstacle to pursue her dreams as she influenced the lives and careers of some of the most influential music-makers of the Romantic period."

Playwright/lyricist Diane Seymour, is the author of the libretto for The Way, which has been performed in New York City at St. Peter's Church.  She has written book and lyrics for Haunted and for the contemporary three-woman musical based on American women's poetry, First Comes Love, which has been performed in New York City at Musical Theater Works and First Stage Festival of New Musicals. Musical Theater Works has also presented her musical comedy, Bluefish Bay. The design team includes costumes by Dawn Testa and lighting by Graham Kindred.

Now in its 4th year, The New York Musical Theatre Festival is the largest musical theatre event in America.  NYMF premiered 99 new musicals during its first three seasons, with more than a dozen of these shows transferring to successful off-Broadway and regional productions.  Hailed as "the Sundance of Musical Theatre," NYMF is widely regarded as the premier source for new material and talent discovery. For more information visit www.nymf.org.