Local theatre group Candlewick Players is presenting a beloved story the next two weekends.
The troupe is bringing The Prince of Egypt: The Musical to the stage at the Manitou Opera House July 25-27 and Aug. 1-3.
This adaptation of the 1998 Dreamworks animated film re-tells the narrative of Moses and the release of the Hebrew people from captivity and oppression in ancient Egypt.
“We’re very excited to have the opportunity to present this brand new musical,” said Richard Klassen, the production’s director and producer. “This show has only recently become available for performance, and our performers and production team are working hard to ensure we present the best possible show for our audiences.”
Klassen said the production team and the dance crew are working on a distinctive integration of the dancers with the set to give audiences a sense of the majesty of Egypt and the mystery of the Arabian wilderness where Moses has an encounter with divinity.
With familiar songs from the original film and many new ones written for the stage version, audiences will find much to enjoy in the music in this production and in the talent of the singers.
“This is an extremely talented cast, musically speaking. We have singers that I have worked with many times over the years, and really strong singers who have joined us for the first time,” said vocal director Erin Klassen. “When you have people in the smaller roles who could easily have played a lead, you know you have a strong group.”
Several numbers are composed with a sound that evokes a sense of the Egyptian and Middle Eastern setting, and it presented a challenge for the cast but also will leave a lasting impression on the audience, especially given the quality of the musical performance, she suggested.
“At the very first musical rehearsal in late May, when the group was singing together for the first time, I got shivers from their first sing-through of the opening number. It is going to be a fantastic show.”
In addition to the quality of the musical performances, this summer’s production will feature a cast of talented actors.
“We are beyond fortunate to have a deep pool of talented, passionate committed actors to draw from in the local area and beyond,” said character director Eric Buhr. “They have all given an incredible amount of time and work for this show, and their passion for and commitment to giving their best on stage is sure to be evident to all in attendance.
“Our lead actors and supporting cast are the best group I could ever hope to work with, and the actors in our crowd scenes will make audiences forget that they are in an opera hall in southern Manitoba and transport them to the streets and deserts of the ancient world.”
The Prince of Egypt: The Musical has evening performances this and next week Friday and Saturday and afternoon matinees on the Sundays.
For show times and tickets, visit candlewick.ca or call the Candlewick Box Office at 204-822-7469.
