Workshop Presentation of VAN WINKLE: A FOLK MUSICAL at St. James Theatre 17 October

On Friday 17th October at 1.30pm, at the St James Theatre, SimG Productions presents a workshop presentation of the new musical, 'Van Winkle - a folk musical,' directed by Simon Greiff. Written by Caroline Wigmore, with arrangements and orchestrations by Jen Green, Van Winkle is a retelling of Washington Irving's classic tale, Rip Van Winkle.

This exciting new musical workshop will re-unite Once cast members Aidan Kelly, Katrina Kleve and Jos Slovick, along with Sandy Grigelis (Carnaby Street), Jennifer Hepburn (Les Miserables), Hannah Jarrett-Scott (Midsummer Songs), Jane Milligan (Mamma Mia), Matt Rutherford (Love Beyond), and Matt Wycliffe (The Commitments, Jersey Boys) as Rip Van Winkle.

After 3 years in development, the show has been adapted into a two-act actor/musician show, featuring a cast of nine actor/musicians playing traditional American folk instruments, including guitar, violin, musical saw, blow jug and harmonica. The story follows a 1700s American farmer, Rip Van Winkle, who is frustrated by his life of hard labour and the pressures of a growing family. Through magic powers given to him by a ghost he meets in the forest, he falls into a deep sleep, and sleeps through his entire life, waking up in modern day New York City where he faces a different way of life. He befriends a homeless couple and together they set out to find Rip's family.

The concept recording was named among the 2014 '20 new musical theatre recordings to look for' by Broadway Direct UK, and recently nominated for the Broadway World Award 'Best Concept Album'. The show won a place in London's 2014 From Page To Stage Showcase, and is a 'highly-commended' finalist in the 2014 S&S Award for 'best un-produced new musical of the year.'

The workshop presentation is an abridged version of the show, and it is a unique opportunity to witness the industry showcase of an exciting new musical. There are only 100 seats available to the public, so booking early is advised. Tickets only £12.50.

Supported using public funding by the National Lottery through Arts Council England

Details:

All tickets £12.50

Friday 17th October, 1.30pm

St James Theatre, 12 Palace Street, London? SW1E 5JA.

Presentation will last approximately 70mins, without an interval.

http://www.stjamestheatre.co.uk/events/van-winkle-a-folk-musical/