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::HOT EVENTS::
LE Newsletter - February 23, 2012
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February 16 - March 4, 2012:: OBEAH OPERA a new Play
Exploring Black History
Source: b current and
Theatre
Archipelago
b current
Performing Arts and Theatre
Archipelago proudly present th e full stage mounting of
Obeah Opera. A total musical journey with a twist, the
evocative production celebrates significant influence of black
music combining blues, folk, jazz, gospel, spirituals, R&B, and
traditional genres. Created (book, libretto, and music) by
Nicole Brooks, this mesmerizing work will be presented as
part of Black History Month at the 918 Bathurst Cultural Centre
from February 16 – March 4, 2012.
Obeah Opera explores the Caribbean connection of a
notorious time in North American history and tells the story of
five woman accused of abominable spiritual acts in the peaceful
Puritan Town where they live. The opera is loosely based on
historical texts of the infamous witch-hunts and 17th century
trials in Salem Massachusetts, journeying musically with some of
the women first accused of the derided practice of obeah. "This
Caribbean-themed opera is a pioneering Canadian theatre piece,
which gives an intimate look into some lost pages in history,”
says Dub Theatre mistress and Founder of b current, ahdri
zhina mandiela, who also directs Obeah Opera.
“Producing the piece renews creative and cultural pride for both
theatre companies, our artists, and much of our audience.”
The cast of Obeah Opera includes multi-winning Canadian Calypso
Monarch, Macomere Fifi*,
renaissance performance artist Nicole
Brooks, vocalist and recording artist
Joni NehRita, newcomer
Saphire Demitro, and
Canadian soul rocktress Saidah Baba
Talibah. The production is rounded out with an
all-female 10-member chorus.
Musical direction by contemporary composer and vocalist, Tova
Kardonne; choreography by Anthony Prime Guerra; set
and costume design by Julia Tribe; Lighting design by
CJ Astronomo; and stage management by Sandi Becker.
From its early showcasing and recent workshop production in May
2011, Obeah Opera audiences have generated exciting
response. "Producing this piece solidifies our mandate to
present works from the Diaspora inspired by a Caribbean
understanding" says Rhoma Spencer, Theatre Archipelago's
Founding Artistic Director and Artistic Producer for the opera.
This is a production not to be missed.
*Due to unforeseen
circumstances, Ella Andall the acclaimed roots chanteuse from
Trinidad & Tobago, is unable to make it to Toronto to perform in
b current and Theatre Archipelago’s World Premiere of Obeah
Opera. However, the producing companies are pleased to announce
that Calypso Queen supreme Macomere Fifi (aka Eulith Tara Woods)
will be replacing her and stepping into the role of Elder.
FEBRUARY 16 TO MARCH 4, 2012
OBEAH OPERA
918 Bathurst Centre
918 Bathurst Street (north of Bloor St)
OPENING GALA: Wednesday,
February 22 at 8:00 PM
Performances: Wed. to
Sat. at 8:00 PM
Sunday matinee at 2:00 PM
General Admission: $30; Seniors & Students $25
[Previews:
February 16, 17 & 19:: Tickets: $15]
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::ENTERTAINMENT NEWS WITH A CANADAN TWIST::
