Photo Flash: First Look at San Diego Rep's VIOLET

San Diego REPertory Theatre (San Diego REP) presents "Violet," a modern fairy tale musical composed by 2015 Tony Award Winner Jeanine Tesori, based on "The Ugliest Pilgrim" by Doris Betts. The winner of the Drama Critics' Circle Award for Best Musical, "Violet" is a production filled with show-stopping anthems of the 1960's American south. Previews begin Aug. 20, 2015. Opening night is Wednesday, Aug. 26, 2015 and runs through Sunday, Sept. 13, 2015 on the Lyceum Stage.

Violet has been scared most of her life. At age 13, a freak accident left her face disfigured. As she matures in the hills of North Carolina, Violet dreams of becoming beautiful. Her faith convinces her that a televangelist in Tulsa can heal her. As she turns 25, Violet hops a bus and begins the journey towards what she is sure will be a miraculous transformation. On the road Violet discovers the true meaning of beauty - what can be seen and can't. "'Violet' is the story of an outsider seeking her place at the table," says Sam Woodhouse, REP artistic director who is also directing the production. "The main character sets off in search of finding beauty in herself, it's a deep American story about faith, healing, the desire for transformation and how the desire to be beautiful informs our lives."

The vibrant score features country, blues, gospel and honky-tonk rock from one of most applauded composers of contemporary musical theatre, Jeanine Tesori ("Caroline Or Change," "Thoroughly Modern Millie," "Shrek The Musical"), who just won the 2015 Tony Award for "Fun Home" (Best Musical Score). The San Diego REP production features Hannah Corrigan as Violet, and Katelyn Katz as Young Violet, Jason Maddy as Father, Jacob Caltrider as Monty, Rhett George as Flick, Melinda Gilb as Old Lady and Hotel Hooker, Jason Heil as Preacher, Anise Ritchie as Musical Hall Singer, Tanika Baptiste as Landlady and Gospel Soloist, Bryan Banville as Billy Dean, Waiter and Radio Singer, and Kürt Norby as Leroy, Waiter, Radio Singer and Earl.

Production and Design team includes: Sam Woodhouse (Director), Korrie Palliotto (Musical Director), Javier Velasco(Choreographer), Guilio Perrone (Scenic Design), Jeanie Reith (Costume Design, Trevor Norton (Lighting Design), Kevin Anthenill (Sound and Projection Design), Patrice Amon (Dramaturg), Jacole Kitchen (Casting Director), andJohn Anderson (Production Manager).

Photos by Daren Scott

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