ArtsWest to Present Jeanine Tesori's VIOLET This Spring

Violet tells the story of a disfigured young woman who dreams of becoming beautiful. After seeing a faith-healing minister on TV, she embarks on a bus trip across the American south in hopes of finding the minister and healing her face. Along the way, she learns the true meaning of beauty, courage and love.Violet is a deeply stirring and inspiring musical that leaves audiences with what the Chicago Tribune calls "an uncommon emotional intensity of the kind that stays with you for years."

Winner of the Drama Critics' Circle Award and Lucille Lortel Award for Best Musical when it premiered off-Broadway, Violet features a score of show-stopping anthems ranging from American roots to folk to gospel from Jeanine Tesori, the Tony Award winning composer ofFun Home, Caroline or Change, Thoroughly Modern Millie, and Shrek.

Bringing Violet to ArtsWest's stage are three of Seattle's most sought after creative talents. The production is directed by INTIMAN Theatre's Andrew Russell, who brought the uplifting story of America's first openly transgender mayor to stage in the musical Stu for Silverton. Performance artist Alice Gosti, recently profiled in the February 2016 cover story of CityArts magazine, provides choreography. Musical Director R.J. Tancioco brings Jeanine Tesori's score to life, returning to ArtsWest after his work on this summer's smash hit American Idiot.

As part of the creative team's exciting and experiential vision for the show, onstage seating is available for a portion of the audience. These premium seats put the audience on the inside of the action, gaining unique perspectives and making for an unforgettable experience.

Violet runs March 3 - April 3 at ArtsWest Playhouse and Gallery (4711 California Ave SW, Seattle WA 98116). Tickets (ranging from $19 - $45) are on sale now and may be purchased online at www.artswest.org or by phone at 206.938.0339, or at the box office Friday - Saturday 1:30 - 7:30 p.m. and Sunday 11:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Media tickets are available, Friday, March 4th thru Sunday, March 6th.