After a spectacular sold out season at the Sydney Opera House and currently playing an extended season at Arts Centre Melbourne, Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s critically acclaimed musical, EVITA, has broken box-office records becoming the highest selling show ever staged at the venue.
The remarkable Tina Arena stars in the musical where her portrayal of Eva Perón has been recognised as the role of her lifetime. “I am so proud this production has resonated with audiences, especially in my home town of Melbourne breaking records at our amazing Arts Centre,” said Arena.
“Playing Eva Perón has been an exquisite experience for me and sharing it with this beautiful cast and our incredible audiences has truly been one of the most gratifying moments of my career,” she added
Joining Arena on stage is a stellar cast including opera superstar Paulo Szot as Juan Perón, and Kurt Kansley as the young revolutionary Che, Michael Falzon plays tango singer Magaldi, while the role of Perón’s Mistress is played by Alexis van Maanen, making her professional debut. Jemma Rix plays the alternate Eva Perón at certain performances.
Completing the cast is Justin Anderson, Anton Berezin, Michael Camilleri, Olivia Carniato, Rachel Cole, Alie Coste, Jade Coutts, Kristian Crowe, Todd Dewberry, Rodney Dobson, Samantha Dodemaide, Laura Field, Zoy Frangos, Ashleigh Gurnett, Kate Maree Hoolihan, Georgina Hopson, Thomas Johansson, Kathleen Moore, Thern Reynolds, Christopher Scalzo, David Sirianni, Tod Strike, Simon Tichelaar, Dean Vince, Rachael Ward, Paul Whiteley and 18 very talented children all hailing from Melbourne.
EVITA charts the story of Eva Perón, wife of former Argentine dictator Juan Perón, from her humble beginnings through to the extraordinary wealth, power and status which ultimately led her to be heralded as the ‘spiritual leader of the nation’.
The musical captured the attention of the public when it was first staged in 1978 and in its 40th year, and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s 70th year, Opera Australia, John Frost and David Ian are thrilled to bring this “modern masterpiece” (New York Post) to Australia in all its original glory.
“It is fantastic to have such an accomplished cast, including cherished global star Tina Arena perform EVITA at Arts Centre Melbourne,” said Claire Spencer, CEO, Arts Centre Melbourne. “Tina is particularly close to our hearts as one of the Patrons of the Australian Music Vault at Arts Centre Melbourne.”
“We are thrilled to be able to host this summer musical that audiences clearly adore. If you haven’t booked your ticket yet, now is the time! We’re urging everyone to come and see EVITA and get ready to have a remarkable experience.”
EVITA continues at the State Theatre – Arts Centre Melbourne until 3 March 2019 with no further extension possible. For more information, visit: www.evitathemusical.com.au or www.artscentremelbourne.com.au for details.
Image: Tina Arena as Eva Peron – photo by Jeff Busby