This summer, The Arts Theatre new studio space plays host to a musically infused version of A Midsummer Night's Dream. Set in the 'Birthplace of Jazz', the tale unfolds from the crumbling New Orleans jazz clubs and out into the Louisiana Bayous - bringing to life Shakespeare's text amidst the dark imagination of the American Deep South.
Underscored with the inimitable sound of New Orleans Jazz and Blues, played live by the cast, it features the music of
Dr. John,
Louis Armstrong,
Randy Newman and Professor Longhair, among others.
Musical Director,
Joe Evans, is thrilled to have the blessing of
Dr. John to include his most famous songs in the show - played live by the cast of actor/musicians, with the addition of Disney's permission to include
Randy Newman's Oscar nominated song "Down In New Orleans" (famously sung by
Dr. John for the hit movie "The Princess and the Frog").
Adapted and edited by Linnie Reedman it stays faithful to the original text, whilst exploring the rich culture of New Orleans and the surrounding influences of early twentieth century Voodoo. Oberon and Titania are portrayed as "The Night Tripper" and Voodoo Queen respectively, while the 'Mechanicals' form one of the earliest New Orleans jazz bands. 'The play within a play' evolves into a Mardis Gras style jam session. On Friday and Saturday evenings any musically minded audience members are also invited to bring their instrument to join in an after-show jam session with the cast.
Formed in 2007 by Young Vic genesis director Linnie Reedman and acclaimed composer/musical director
Joe Evans, Ruby In The Dust has over twelve productions under its belt, including shows both on the fringe and the West End and other site specific venues. Past credits include the critically praised The Great Gatsby, Hutch (both at
Riverside Studios), Miracle starring
Susannah York and Tim Woodward, (St Andrew Church Crypt and Leicester Square Theatre), Bonnie and Clyde (The King's Head Theatre), Dorian Gray (
Riverside Studios) with
Jack Fox and
Daisy Bevan, both in their theatrical debuts and Lady Windermere's Fan (King's Head Theatre)
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