One of the most passionate and colorful musicals in theater history, “Evita” is currently being showcased at OnStage Playhouse in downtown Chula Vista.
For decades, theater-lovers have thrilled to the story of Eva Peron’s meteoric rise from the slums of Argentina to the presidential mansion as first lady. Adored by her people as a champion for the poor, she became one of the most powerful women in the world — while her greed, outsized ambition and fragile health made her one of the most tragic.
“Evita” features some of theater’s most beautiful songs, including “Don’t Cry for Me, Argentina,” “Another Suitcase in Another Hall,” and “High Flying, Adored” (lyrics by Tim Rice and music by Andrew Lloyd Webber).
The large cast, with several members playing the adoring crowd, soldiers and tango hall dancers, does well in evoking the feeling of the time period. The role of Evita is performed by Victoria Patton, whose voice and attitude reveal Eva Peron’s charisma. The high point of the play is Evita on the balcony speaking to the people. Dressed in a white ball gown, Eva sings the iconic “Don’t Cry for Me, Argentina.”
As Juan Peron, Frank Remiatte reveals both the confidence, but eventually the subordination, of Eva’s husband. Che Guevara is the narrator and social activist who ties the scenes together. Nick Williams is dynamic and striking in this portrayal.
Edgar Diaz, as the first male to succumb to Eva, is strong in both his singing and manner. His “This Night of a Thousand Stars” is one of the musical’s memorable songs. Actors Sabrina Summers and Eliana Medina also contribute to the play’s success.
Jessica Brandon, the musical’s director, pulls all the various scenes, actors and themes tightly together. She reveals the story behind Eva’s statement: “My biggest fear in life is to be forgotten.”
Daniel Newheiser, music director, leads the singers to create arresting performances. The unique and stylistic choreography, directed by John Gaylord, adds uniquely to the concept of the show.
Lisa Burgess’ fine costumes demonstrate both the time period and the great dichotomy between Eva and her people by the end of Eva’s short life. Nick Williams, producer; Jaime Gutfeldt, associate producer; Bill Ulbrich, lighting designer; Martin Gutfeldt, sound designer; and Sean O’Hara, stage manager, also contributed to the musical’s cohesiveness.
The show was enthusiastically received by the audience. One audience member mentioned that the actors did well, and that the part of Evita was perfect for Patton. Watching the musical piqued her interested in learning more about the time period and Eva Peron.
Reserve tickets by calling (619) 422-7787 or online at www.onstageplayhouse.org. OnStage Playhouse is located on historic Third Avenue in downtown Chula Vista, within walking distance of many restaurants for pre- and post-show dining. Parking is available.
Performance dates are through June 4.
