The Springfield Municipal Opera Announces 2019 Season
Springfield, IL (November 15, 2018) – The Springfield Municipal Opera (The Muni) 2019 Season will feature dreamers and seekers looking for adventure, success and answers. “Wishes really do come true, and the 2019 Springfield Muni Opera season proves it," said Jim Leach, President of the Muni Board of Managers. "But it's not just the wishes of the characters in our four shows. It might be the wish to let your talent shine on stage, or to be a part of the team backstage that makes Muni magic, or maybe just a wish to spend a summer night in Springfield in the best way possible -- at the Muni. So all this year, we'll be asking: what's YOUR wish?"
The Muni will present Peter Pan, directed by Elizabeth Cheney and sponsored by Springfield Clinic, from May 31-June 2, June 5-9; Evita directed by Craig Williams II and sponsored by UCB from June 21-23 and June 26-30; Thoroughly Modern Millie, directed by Morgan Kaplan and Andrew Maynerich and sponsored by Sikich LLP from July 12-14 and 15-21; and The Wizard of Oz, directed by Anna McFarland and Connor McNamara and sponsored by Edward Jones from August 2-4 and 7-11. All the shows will start at 8:30 p.m., except for The Wizard of Oz which will begin at 8:00 p.m.
“We are all thrilled to bring the magical and well-loved story of Peter Pan to life, and are busy planning for some amazing sets, costumes and effects. We can’t wait to see and hear all the energetic auditions this spring, and work with the actors, singers and dancers,” said Cheney, who last directed White Christmas on the Muni stage in 2017. “We will be looking for Pirates, Warrior Girl Dancers, Lost Boys, and, of course, our Peter and Wendy, and many other delightful roles we will share with you in our upcoming workshop in February. Come and be part of the magic this summer with us!”
Evita hasn’t been done at Muni since 1985. Based on the life and death of Eva Peron, Evita follows her rise from working class to the upper ranks of Argentina. “This show has a glorious score, a heart wrenching message and the immense strength of one woman. Evita is a memorable musical that will resonate with audiences in today’s tumultuous political climate of America,” said Williams II, who last directed Mary Poppins at the Muni. “It will have roles for young and old, dancers and non-dancers...there will really be something for everyone...on and off the stage.”
Maynerich and Kaplan made their directorial debut on the Muni stage last season with Sister Act and are looking forward to bringing Thoroughly Modern Millie, a new show to the Muni, this summer. “This show is one that is very special to us, personally, so it’s really quite thrilling to have the opportunity to direct it together at The Muni! Based on the 1967 movie, starring Julie Andrews, the glitz and glamour of 1920s Manhattan, a beautiful score, energetic dance numbers and a hilarious, mixed-up love story all make this production a thrilling one, not to be missed!” said Kaplan. “This production has roles available for all ages and dance abilities, with several roles for individuals with very strong dance and vocal talents,” added Maynerich.
The Wizard of Oz returns to the Muni stage. It will bring us on a journey with characters that dream of a future where their dreams come true. “We are excited to bring the classic story of The Wizard of Oz to life this summer at The Muni. A family favorite, it reminds us that home is with those we love,” said McFarland, who will make her directorial debut at The Muni along with co-director Connor McNamara. “You never know what you will find just on the other side of the rainbow.”
Those interested in auditioning are encouraged to attend the 2019 Audition Workshop on February 16, 2019 at the Hoogland Center for the Arts; the children’s session will begin at 10:00 a.m. and the adults’ at 1:00 p.m. Directors and staff from all four shows will be on hand to discuss casting requirements and answer questions.
Adult auditions for the 2019 season will take place March 2, 3 & 9, with callbacks on March 10. Children’s auditions will take place March 16, with callbacks on March 17. More information about auditions will be available on The Muni website in mid-December.
Starting Thanksgiving weekend, The Muni’s 2019 Season Passes will be on sale for pickup at various locations throughout the Springfield area. Patrons may also purchase season passes by calling (217) 793-MUNI for mail delivery. For a full list of season pass retailers, please visit The Muni’s website at www.TheMuni.org.
About The Muni
The Springfield Municipal Opera (The Muni) is a not-for-profit theatrical organization that has become a Springfield summer tradition, providing the best of Broadway to enthusiastic audiences for more than 50 years. Located at 815 East Lake Shore Drive in an outdoor amphitheater, The Muni is one of the largest all-volunteer community theatre organizations in the nation. For more information on The Muni, please visit www.TheMuni.org.
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