IMMEDIATE RELEASE: 5-25-05 CONTACT: PUBLIC INFORMATION OFFICE

SILVER CITY—The Western New Mexico University Expressive Arts Department is announcing its plans for the fall musical production of “Evita,” by Andrew Lloyd Webber, a rock opera based on the life story of Eva Peron, the second wife of Argentine President Juan Peron. Students and community members are encouraged to participate.

Eva Duarte was born in 1919, illegitimate, poor, without privilege. She became the most powerful woman her country had ever seen, the First Lady of Argentina at the age of 27. Eva was a saint to the working class, reviled by the aristocracy and mistrusted by the military. She died in 1952 of cancer, at the age of 33. The score is complex with heavy Latin, pop and jazz influences.

Western New Mexico University Associate Professor of Drama Jack Ellis will be on sabbatical for the fall semester. Taking over the reigns, as director and instructor, will be Ann Marie Elder, WNMU drama assistant professor and Fine Arts Center Theatre production manager.

“I wanted to announce the fall musical early so individuals interested in performing can begin preparing for the auditions. There are so many good singers and performers in our community and I really want to give them the opportunity to be on our stage,” said Elder.

Auditions will be held at the FACT on Aug. 20 and 21, and Aug. 27 and 28 beginning at 2 p.m. each day. Performance dates are Nov. 10 through 13.

The show requires a variety of ages and talents. If you wish a singing role, please prepare a song that shows your range or check out a song from the show from Linda Smerglia, WNMU Expressive Arts Department secretary. A piano accompanist will be provided for you. You can reach Ms. Smerglia at 538-6618 to check out the music.

Anyone that wishes to sing in the show but does not choose to be on stage can participate in the “pit chorus”. Anyone that wants to help backstage with props and scenery is most welcome, added Elder.

Cast requirements for the lead actor role of Eva Peron are 25 to 35 years of age and must be able to sing. The lead actor role of General Peron requires 25 to 45 years of age and must sing and perform some dance. Che, the rebel, will be played by someone 25 to 35 years old and must sing, no dance required.

A small children’s chorus ages 8-14 is desired as well as other chorus roles ages 16 and up. Also needed is a group of six dancers of any age that do not have to sing.

A live orchestra will be used in the production. Brass, percussion, and keyboard musicians are needed.

For more information on the production, contact Director Ann Marie Elder at 313-4896 or Music Director Ralph Converse at 538-6617.

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