BWW Reviews: An Enchanting EVITA at the Engeman

As Northport's John W. Engeman Theatre always does, they bring a touch of Broadway to Main Street and their current offering, the Tony winning musical Evita, is certainly no exception. The gorgeous Long Island venue executes an enchanting incarnation - running through November 1st - of the Tim Rice/Andrew Lloyd Webber classic superbly directed by Igor Goldin.

The tale focuses on the life of Argentine force-to-be-reckoned-with Eva Perón centering on her rise through the political ladder to her untimely death. Exquisitely portraying Eva is Janine Divita (Broadway: Grease, Anything Goes, et. al.). The story shows Eva over a period of eighteen years; from when she was fifteen until her death at age thirty three. I really could go on and on about her stunning voice, gripping speeches to her "public", and wonderful stage presence, but I'm just going to say that you will remember Ms. Divita's Eva for quite some time. Eva meets and marries Colonel Juan Perón portrayed strongly by Bruce Winant (Broadway: La Cage Aux Falls, Phantom of the Opera, et. al). Ms. Divita and Mr. Winant's voices complemented each other well and were believable as a married couple.

Additional highlights of the stellar cast include Aaron C. Finley (Broadway: Rock of Ages, Allegiance) and Ashley Perez Flanagan. Mr. Finley, as Che, serves as the show's narrator and the packed audience gives a rousing round of applause to the extremely talented and handsome young actor. His performances of "Oh What a Circus" and "High Flying, Adored", the latter of which he sings with Ms. Divita, is particularly well received. And you will be mesmerized by Ms. Flanagan, who portrays the Mistress, as her voice soars on her emotional performance of "Another Suitcase in the Hall".

Besides the magnificent cast, you will become captivated by some of the most beautiful music that was created by Mr. Rice and Mr. Lloyd Webber. To be included with the aforementioned songs, Ms. Divita gives an outstanding rendition of the iconic "Don't Cry for Me, Argentina" and the entire company is powerful on "Montage" at the end of Act Two. This music is spectacularly performed with the accompaniment of the live orchestra headed up by Musical Director James Olmstead. Additionally, Daniel Willis' set is fantastically highlighted by Zach Blane's lighting, and Craig Kaufman's sound design. Kurt Alger's costumes are also top notch - particularly Eva's "Don't Cry For Me, Argentina" wedding gown inspired dress.

And so, it is quite clear that Northport's John W. Engeman Theatre has a hit with their vision of Evita. An inspired cast, beautiful music, and the stunning John W. Engeman Theater make for a delightful night of theatre.

Evita is presented by the John W. Engeman Theatre of Northport, Long Island, through November 2nd. By Tim Rice (Lyrics) & Adrew Lloyd Webber (Music), Directed by Igor Goldin, Scenic Design by Daniel Willis, Costume & Wig Design by Kurt Alger, Lighting Design by Zach Blane, Sound Design by Craig Kaufman, Assistant Direction and Fight Chorography by Trey Compton, Chorography by Antoniette DiPietropolo, Musical Direction by James Olmstead. For more information and to purchase tickets, please call 631-261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com.

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