Artistic Director Steps in For Lead Role in EVANGELINE Due to Actor Sickness

Jay Davis who plays the lead Gabriel in Charlottetown Festival's EVANGELINE, became ill and lost his voice right before the first preview show. Davis did not have an understudy, so artistic director, Adam Brazier, had to step in at the last minute to replace him, it was reported.

Brazier played the role is the first production of the show in in 2013.

The general manager, Dean Constable, said, "Although he knew the old version of the show, he started studying up very quickly. He had about 24 hours notice and he went on on Saturday night for the very first preview."

The show was a success.

Jay Davis is set to perform on opening night on Thursday.

One of the most ambitious Canadian musicals ever conceived is back. Inspired by Longfellow's classic poem, Evangeline takes us on a heroine's incredible journey to find her Gabriel following the events of the Acadian Deportation. Co-produced by Edmonton's Citadel Theatre and The Charlottetown Festival, the remounted Evangeline begins previews in the Homburg Theatre September 14 and opens September 18.

"This represents the evolution of an epic musical," says Adam Brazier, artistic director of The Charlottetown Festival. "To take the next step, we went back and learned from the world premiere - which was so well received - and have improved upon it. I am thrilled that we are able to reimagine this important Canadian musical in collaboration with Bob Baker and the Citadel Theatre."

This powerful love story weaves villains and heroes and the strength of human spirit with a rich musical score inspired by Acadian, Celtic, and Cajun music and dance. Written by Ted Dykstra (Two Pianos, Four Hands) Evangeline features a cast of more than 30, a children's ensemble, a 14-piece orchestra, and more than 200 costumes.

Directed by Bob Baker, the remounted Evangeline includes changes made to clarify the storytelling and tighten the length, as well as new leads in three principal roles. These include Josée Boudreau and Jay Davis as the two star-crossed lovers, and stage legend and Tony-Award winner Brent Carver, returning to the Festival after 40 years, as Father Felician.

Set and Props Designer Cory Sincennes (Bittergirl and Hockey Mom, Hockey Dad designs) has redesigned the show with a slightly grittier, etching-inspired palette. Sincennes has incorporated new kinetic set pieces and moving parts, including a revolving stage which creates movement and aids in representing the many locations in the epic journey of Evangeline. Sincennes is also working closely with returning projections designer Jamie Nesbitt to create transportative environments that focus the story more on the performers.

Other creative team members include returning Musical Director Bob Foster, Choreographer Dayna Tekatch, Costume DesignerCharlotte Dean, Lighting Designer Michael Walton, Sound Designer Peter McBoyle, and Artistic Producer Anne Allan.