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Evita

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Caroline Bowman as ‘Eva’ in the Touring Cast of EVITA. Photo Credit: Richard Termin.

By Angela Ash

There are productions that weave a spell upon the audience... twisting... tugging at deep emotions from the opening curtain to the standing ovation.  The audience will laugh, clap their hands at beguiling dance numbers and witty narratives, and in the very next moment they may find tears spilling down their cheeks, as they frantically attempt to clear their vision so as not to miss one precious moment.

This is, in its most raw and true description, what you may expect to experience with EVITA. 

Set in a tumultuous time in Argentine history, Eva sings, dances, and glamors her way into the arms of the soon to be President... culminating in a tale of heroism and a will for change that is captured brilliantly on stage. 

The "wait for it" moment... Caroline Bowman's (Eva) heart-wrenching rendition of "Don't Cry For Me Argentina" resounds throughout the theater, leaving goosebumps, sighs of appreciation, and a thunderous round of applause.  I have, of course, seen the film version, with Madonna taking up the role of Eva.  While I consider Madonna the Queen of everything she touches, Bowman most certainly borrowed her crown, because the passion and emotion behind her vocals are absolutely breathtaking. Her voice also matches beautifully with Sean MacLaughlin's (Peron)clear vocals, making numbers like "I'd Be Surprisingly Good For You" standout performances. 

And the crowd will agree that Josh Young's interpretation of Che is beyond brilliant.  He brings electricity to the stage with each appearance, instantly grabbing the attention of the entire audience with his rich, confident voice and his dramatically infused mannerisms. 

And just to really draw in the audience even more, the scenic and costume design by Christopher Oram is imaginative and creative, utilizing facets that will pique nearly every sense.  The Aronoff Center will slowly slip away into oblivion, as you are transported to the streets of Argentina, most certainly shouting "Eva". 

Choreographed by Rob Ashford and directed by Michael Grandage, EVITA is a masterpiece, and its message and emotional transcendence will stay with you long after you leave the theater.

EVITA will play the Aronoff Center in Cincinnati from February 18 – March 2, 2014: Tuesday – Thursday at 7:30PM, Friday at 8:00PM, Saturday at 2:00PM and 8:00PM and Sunday at 1:00PM and 6:30PM.

Tickets for EVITA start at $28. They are available at the Aronoff Center Box Office downtown at 650 Walnut Street, online at CincinnatiArts.org or by phone at 513.621.ARTS.

For groups of 10 or more, contact the group sales department at 513.369.4363. 

For more information, please visit www.BroadwayInCincinnati.com.