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A New World
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by
Katie Penrose
February 2 - 8, 2012 |
“It’s about one moment. It’s about hitting the wall and having to make a choice, or take a stand, or turn around and go back.”
— composer Jason Robert Brown
Hammer Entertainment proudly presents Songs for New World, a contemporary musical that uses themes as an over-arching structure and touches deeply into personal moments to draw out a whole picture. Unlike a typical plot–driven show, this production links concepts to affect an overall experience. A dynamic variety of characters sing their hearts out to bring it all to life.
Director Ryan Miller, who comes across as a gentle, articulate and intelligent creative source, has taken the helm for Hammer Entertainment on this project. Ryan had this to say about the show:
“In Jason Robert Brown’s words ‘It’s about one moment.’ Personally, I think it’s a little more than that. The show is a non–sequiturs musical, where each song tells a different story. Each character we meet has been on a journey in life and has come to a crossroad where they have to make a major life decision. We see both the ups and downs of life as the show progresses. It mimics real life quite accurately, given that everyone reacts differently when faced with the joys or challenges of life.
“[Songs for a New World] was chosen for its success off–Broadway and the fact that it has never been done in Hamilton. There are a lot of Jason Robert Brown fans in the area. His style of music traces its roots to jazz, which I am particularly passionate about.
“There are only four members in the cast, with ages ranging from 19 to 30. Everyone has to pull their weight for the show as they each play four or five different characters over the course of the show.
“The music is phenomenal and we have an incredibly talented cast and band. It was my goal to build the show around that strength and let the music stand at the forefront, driving the stories, while still leaving room for the audience’s imagination to get lost in the stories being told.”
The cast consists of Simone Caruso, Heidi Lange, Chris McPherson and Phil Pompeo – backed by band members Tania Vroenhoven – Keys, Lynne Jamieson – Drums, and Will Seaborn – Bass. This roster is sure to impress; the talent runs high, and the experience behind these folks is vast.
Enthusiastic rumblings about the quality of this production are spreading across the theatre circuit – so don’t hesitate, buy your tickets sooner rather than later.
The Lyric Theatre has been Hammer Entertainment’s new home since summer 2011, and artistic director Jason Dick continues to keep the momentum high. Jason’s perpetual good energy acts as a beacon for talent and productivity, attracting skillful contributors from all corners of the local creative circuit. This show is no exception. It would make a truly wonderful outing for Valentine’s Day, or will simply bring joy into your day.
As Ryan says, Songs for a New World “is primarily meant to be intriguing to the audience.” It is built for pure enjoyment, and yet remains intelligent in its message. It is more than a string of songs; it is a reflection on life and the human heart, seen through an array of eyes, all of which share in the grand spectacle that is love and tribulation.
Visit hammerentertainment.ca regularly to check out what projects are in store for this energetic jack–of–all–trades theatre company. And don’t miss the opportunity to hear Jason Robert Brown’s fabulous tunes performed by a powerhouse of talent, opening this weekend. The stage will be on fire. V
SONGS FOR A NEW WORLD
Music & Lyrics by Jason Robert Brown.
Feb. 3–11.
Presented by Hammer Entertainment.
@ The Lyric Theatre.
434 King St W., Hamilton.
hammerentertainment.ca
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