Playhouse Merced to Open Andrew Lloyd Webber's EVITA, 8/28

An enduring classic for over 30 years, EVITA promises to be an amazing opener to Playhouse Merced's 22nd Season! With music by Andrew Lloyd Webber and lyrics by Tim Rice, EVITA charts the rags-to-riches rise of the First Lady of Argentina, who won the love of her people after marrying military leader-turned-president, Juan Perón. EVITA begins a four-weekend run at Playhouse Merced on Friday, August 28 at 7:30 p.m.

The true story of a poor Argentine girl, Eva Duarte, who grows up to be the wife of the president of Argentina and worshipped by her people. As a young girl, Eva quickly learns that the way to achieve the power she desires is by seducing powerful men. In order to make it to Buenos Aires, Evita has an affair with the tango singer, Augustin Magaldi. After she is through with him, she seduces the rising political figure, Colonel Juan Pero?n. Pero?n eventually becomes the President of Argentina while Eva becomes a hero to the poor and working class. When Eva reaches the height of her fame at the end of her life, she questions whether or not she took the right path. Evita includes a beautiful score, with songs like, "Don't Cry for Me Argentina," "Another Suitcase in Another Hall," and "High Flying, Adored."

EVITA is directed by Rob Hypes with musical direction by Darrel Lingenfelter, and stars Rachel Pearre as Eva Perón, GB Blackmon III as Che, Jesse Stofle as Augustin Magaldi, and Joel Scott Shade as Perón.

EVITA opens Friday, August 28 and plays four weekends through Sunday, September 20. Tickets go on sale Saturday, August 1. Show times are Friday and Saturday evenings at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday matinees at 2 p.m. You may purchase tickets by going online to www.playhousemerced.com, by calling (209) 725-8587, or visiting the box office at 452 West Main Street in downtown Merced, Tuesday through Saturday from 1-5 p.m. The show is rated "T" for Teens and Above.

Evita celebrates Playhouse Merced's 22nd season in its downtown theater location. Playhouse Merced is a community-based, non-profit, 501(c) 3 organization seeking to entertain, educate and enlighten audiences.