The American Repertory Theater (A.R.T.) is pleased to present Best of Both Worlds, a new musical for the whole family. Bursting with the sounds of R&B and gospel, Best of Both Worlds features book and lyrics by Randy Weiner, music by multiple Obie-winner Diedre Murray, and is directed by Tony nominated Diane Paulus (Director of HAIR - Tony Winner: Best Musical Revival 2009).
The Company of Best of Both Worlds includes Gregg Baker (Lawrence Olivier Award and Grammy nominee), Jeannette Bayardelle (NAACP Theater Award Winner, Best Lead Actress in a Musical for the Role of Celie in The Color Purple), Mary Bond Davis (original Motormouth Maybelle in Hairspray on Broadway), Darius de Haas (Obie Winner, Running Man), Nikkieli DeMone (Joseph Jefferson Award for Best Supporting Actor in a Musical for his portrayals of Jake in Sideshow and John in Miss Saigon), Cleavant Derricks (Tony, Drama Desk and LA Drama Circle Award winner for Dreamgirls and Tony nominee for Brooklyn the Musical), Brianna Horne (Winner of CBS Early Show Contest "My Broadway Debut), Lawrence Stallings (Passing Strange On- and Off-Broadway), and the 8-year old Hingham native Sebastien Lucien as Mamillius.
In addition, Best of Both Worlds will feature a rotating roster of Greater Boston's most celebrated gospel choirs, including community, university, and church choirs.
WHEN: November 21, 2009 - January 3, 2010
WHERE: Loeb Drama Center, 64 Brattle Street, Cambridge
TICKETS: $25 - $75. Student rush $20. Seniors $10 off ticket price.
Group Rates available. Can be purchased online at www.AmericanRepertoryTheater.org, by phone at 617-547-8300, or in person at the A.R.T. box office.
CRITICAL ACCLAIM:
"Musical numbers that leave the audience whooping."- New York Times
"Thrilling for Shakespeare enthusiasts, essential for gospel devotees, and an exciting new work for fans of the American musical . . .moving and meaningful, an allegory for the Holiday Season." TheaterMania
RATING: All ages.
Cambridge, MA - The American Repertory Theater (A.R.T.) is pleased to present Best of Both Worlds, a holiday musical for the whole family. Bursting with the sounds of R&B and gospel, Best of Both Worlds features book and lyrics by Randy Weiner, music by multiple Obie-winner Diedre Murray, and is directed by the Tony nominated Diane Paulus (Director of HAIR - Tony Winner: Best Musical Revival 2009).
Best of Both Worlds is a soulful re-envisioning of The Winter's Tale, Shakespeare's timeless story of heartbreak and redemption. Clap your hands, jump out of your seat, and feel the power of love with this holiday treat. Best of Both Worlds takes us on a journey through the rich musical tapestry of R&B, rediscovering Shakespeare's characters with smooth sounds and funky beats. When jealousy rips apart love and friendship, only the revelatory power of gospel can restore the enduring bonds of faith, family, and forgiveness.
CREATIVE TEAM
The creative team also includes set designer and longtime A.R.T. collaborator Riccardo Hernandez, costume designer Emilio Sosa, lighting designer Aaron Black, and sound designer Brett Jarvis. Movement is by Tracy Jack, Music Director is Michael Mitchell, and the Associate Music Director and Choir Coordinator is David Freeman Coleman.
THE CAST
The Company of Best of Both Worlds includes Gregg Baker as Ezekiel, Jeannette Bayardelle as Serena, Mary Bond Davis as Violetta, Darius de Haas as Maurice, Nikkieli DeMone as Camillo, Cleavant Derricks as Sweet Daddy, Brianna Horne as Rain, Sebastien Lucien as Mamillius, and Lawrence Stallings as Tariq. The musicians are James Peterson, Guitar; Wesley Wirth, Bass, and Yoron Israel, Drums.
