Official News Release provided/written by Orpheus:
OTTAWA – From March 10 to 19, 2023, join Orpheus Musical Theatre as they present the Ottawa Premiere of Memphis, winner of multiple Tony awards including Best Musical. Loosely based on the life of American disk jockey Dewey Phillips, who popularized playing both black and white music on the radio, Memphis shares the love of music, dreams, and ambitions as two lovers of different races and from separate backgrounds are faced with objections from not only their families but the world around them In Memphis, we are transported back to the southern US in the1950s where the world was still segregated and filled with intolerance. Through it all we see how love and music can transcend hate.
The secret weapon in this crowd-pleaser is the winning book by Joe DiPietro and an original score with music by Bon Jovi founding member David Bryan. “This show is an emotional roller coaster”, says Director, Lisa James, with “music that captures the beauty of soul, gospel, rock and rhythm and blues and choreography deeply rooted in some of the most influential black dance styles. ”Lisa is also excited to introduce audiences to its amazing performers: “Casting this show was truly magical. This authentically diverse cast offers local talent from both the black and white community, from every age and walk of life. It’s also been a privilege working on a show that offers opportunities for black performers to tell stories that are relevant to their history.
”Featuring Jack Ettlinger, the charismatic semi-finalist singer on the original Canada’s Got Talent and Joy Mwandemange, a much-in-demand graduate of Carleton University’ Musical Theatre Voice program as star-crossed lovers Huey and Felicia, this show is brimming with talent. Memphis also showcases Emmanuel Simon in the role of Gator, who has performed in Off Broadway productions of 42nd Street and Annie Get your Gun and as a backing vocalist for Josh Groban and Michael Bublé.
Learn more about Orpheus Musical Theatres’ production of Memphis The Musical:
Orpheus Musical Theatre has been bringing live musical performances to Ottawa audiences since 1906. A registered charity, Orpheus is proud to produce professional-quality musical theatre while fostering the development of local amateur talent.
Performances: March 10-19, Tuesday through Saturday at 7:30 p.m., Sunday matinees at 2 p.m.
Meridian Theatres @ Centrepointe, 101 Centrepointe Dr., Ottawa
Tickets$25 to $50 + fees, available at the Meridian Theatres @ Centrepointe box office, 613-580-2700 or at meridiancentrepointe.com. Rush: $20 + fees, available one hour before the performance, in person only.
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