REVIEW: Evita
- Posted on January 8, 2007 10:07 AM
- 0 comments
Every so often you leave the theatre with songs in your head and lyrics dancing between your lips. Evita takes it one step further, sending shivers down the spine and leaving an imprint on your heart.
In this case, the imprint is in the shape of a tiny little dancer by the name of Elena Roger. What this pint-sized Argentinean actress lacks in size, she more than makes up for with voice and talent. Sharp features and a commanding stage presence are effective in portraying the powerful and seductive character of Eva.
The musical returned to the West End this year with a gusto to rival any past performances. It may be 20 years since the last production but the wait was worth it. After an evening at the opening at the Adelphi Theatre, I found myself speechless (a rare thing) and singing my own praises for a stunning performance.
The story of Evita is a well-known one. Set in Argentina, it is based on the life of Eva Peron, a lower class woman with sky-high aspirations. Determination led her down the path of wealth, power and politics and, after a successful acting career; she became the second wife of Argentine dictator Juan Peron. Adored by the public and stalked by power, the feisty female won the hearts of her people before dying of cancer at the age of 33.
I'm sure the star-studded opening night audience would agree with me. It's a story worthy of a faultless performance and Roger rose to the challenge. Rod Stewart may be known for his vocal chords but even he must have been blown away by the spectacle before him. Philip Quast as Juan Peron and Matt Rawle as narrator Che Guevara provide the testosterone and male bravado needed to support such a cast.
No matter who you are, there's something quite magical about an evening of Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice inspired musical drama. Michael Grandage's reinvention is not to be missed.
I came out tear soaked and blinking with confusion against the lights and traffic on the Strand. Somehow, after the beauty of Argentina I wasn't ready for the bustle of the modern world. Yes, the set really is that good. Madonna, eat your heart out - this production proves that the true Evita belongs on stage.
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