TV: First Look at Highlights of CST's THE MAGIC FLUTE

Chicago Shakespeare Theater (CST) presents Isango Ensemble's The Magic Flute (Impempe Yomlingo), bringing thirty actors and musicians from South Africa to Chicago as part of CST's celebrated World's Stage Series. The Magic Flute reimagines Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart's most beloved operatic work, incorporating African singing, pulsating beats and spirited storytelling into this 223-year-old classic. Based in Cape Town, the vibrant company of the Isango Ensemble unites the diverse nation of Africa by reinventing classics from the Western theater canon within a South African setting. Adapted and directed by Isango co-founder Mark Dornford-May, The Magic Flute took London by storm, garnering London's prestigious Laurence Olivier Award. The production will be performed at Skyline Stage on Navy Pier (next door to CST) for a limited engagement, September 25-28, 2014. Check out highlights below!

This production marks the Chicago debut of South Africa's Isango Ensemble, founded by Director Mark Dornford-Mayand Music Director Pauliene Malefane. The company draws its performers from the townships surrounding Cape Town and speaks to a broad multicultural audience. Since its founding in 2000, the company has played to sold-out audiences around the world with numerous productions including A Christmas Carol (Ikrismaskherol), The Mysteries and Aesop's Fables.

Through its celebrated World's Stage programming, Chicago Shakespeare has collaborated with more than 700 international artists representing 19 countries on five continents, engaging audiences in a dialogue with the world's established and emerging theater artists.

The Magic Flute (Impempe Yomlingo) is an Isango Ensemble/Eric Abraham-Young Vic production, adapted and directed by co-founder Mark Dornford-May with words and music by Mandisi Dyantyis, Mbali Kgosidintsi, Pauline Malefane and Nolufefe Mtshabe. For a video preview, visit www.chicagoshakes.com/magicflute.

The Magic Flute is performed September 25-28, 2014 at Skyline Stage on Navy Pier (next door to Chicago Shakespeare). Tickets are on sale now for $20-$55. Special discounts are available for groups of 10 or more, as well as CST for $20 tickets for patrons under 35. All patrons receive a 40% discount on guaranteed parking in Navy Pier garages. For more information or to purchase tickets or a season subscription, contact Chicago Shakespeare Theater's Box Office at 312.595.5600 or visit www.chicagoshakes.com.

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