ONCE ON THIS ISLAND to Open at Raliegh Little Theatre this Week
Raleigh Little Theatre presents the captivating musical, Once On This Island, from June 7-23 in the Cantey V. Sutton Theatre. This is RLT's second production of the play and first since the 1993-94 season. Once On This Island was nominated for eight Tony's during its original Broadway run.
This heartwarming musical tells the story of a peasant girl, Ti Moune, who falls in love with a wealthy boy from the other side of her island. The gods who rule the island test the strength of the young couple, who must decide if their love is enough to withstand the powers of hate and prejudice. The story is based on Rosa Guy's novel My Love, My Love, with book and lyrics by Lynn Ahrens and music by Stephen Flaherty.
RLT's production is directed by L.D. Burris, a former member of Chuck Davis' African American Dance Ensemble. Mr. Burris previously choreographed The Wiz at RLT in the 1988-89 season. Originally, Once On This Island was slated to be directed by Haskell Fitz-Simons, RLT's artistic director of 30 years, who passed away earlier this month.
The talented cast includes Tina Morris-Anderson in the role of Asaka, one of the island's gods. Ms. Morris-Anderson has performed as a soloist with the North Carolina Symphony, and played the role of Ti Moune in RLT's original production. Her son, Noah Anderson, plays Papa Ge in this production continuing the RLT tradition of multi-generational casts.
After the performances on June 9 and 16, there will be outdoor concerts in the Stephenson Amphitheatre at RLT. The Raleigh Concert Band returns on June 9 with an all-Broadway program. The Heart of Carolina Jazz Orchestra presents the second annual Paul Montgomery Memorial Father's Day Jazz Concert, featuring local and national jazz musicians, on June 16.
Tickets for all events can be purchased by calling the box office (919)-821-3111, Monday through Friday, noon-5 PM, or by visiting the theatre's website atwww.raleighlittletheatre.org. Once on This Island runs from June 7-23. Tickets are $22 for adults and $18 for students and seniors. Raleigh Little Theatre is located at 301 Pogue St., Raleigh, N.C. 27607, adjacent to the Raleigh Rose Garden.
Founded in 1936, Raleigh Little Theatre (RLT) is one of the oldest continuously operating community theatres in the United States. RLT offers entertainment, education, and community programs year-round, reaching more than 30,000 people. As a community theatre, RLT engages hundreds of volunteers under the guidance of professional staff to achieve its mission and bring quality live theatre to the Triangle region. Visit www.raleighlittletheatre.org for more information.
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