From Broadway To 52nd Street…
Evita opened at the Broadway Theatre on September 25, 1979 and ran 1,567 performances. The musical starred Patti Lupone, Mandy Patinkin, Bob Gunton, Mark Syers, Jane Ohringer singing music composed by Andrew Lloyd Webber with lyrics by Tim Rice. The show began as a rock opera concept album released in 1976. Its success led to productions in London’s West End in 1978, and on Broadway a year later, both of which enjoyed considerable success. A major 1996 film of the musical was made, starring Madonna and Antonio Banderas. The musical was revived in London in 2006. Evita has had numerous professional tours and worldwide productions, and numerous cast albums have been recorded, and won a 1980 Grammy. “Don’t Cry For Me Argentina” has become an entry into the catalogue of jazz standards.
The Story: Evita is a musical that concentrates on the life of Argentine political leader Eva Peron, the second wife of Argentinian President Juan Peron. The story follows Evita’s early life, rise to power, charity work, and eventual death.
Broadway History: The Booth Theatre was given its name in recognition of one of the great contributors to American theatre. However, the current Booth Theatre does not get its name from an accomplished actor, playwright, or producer. It comes instead from the original Booth Theatre, which was originally located on 23rd Street and 6th Avenue. The original Booth Theatre, which opened on February 3, 1869 with a production of Romeo and Juliet, derived its name from Edwin Booth, an accomplished Shakespearean actor, who unfortunately happens to be the brother of infamous actor/assassin John Wilkes Booth. Although demolished only fourteen years later in 1883, the theatre revolutionized American drama by incorporating hydraulic ramps to change scenery, an electric device that allowed changes in lighting, and a sprinkler system. Fun fact, the top floor of the original theatre’s adjoining shop and rehearsal space was reserved as Edwin’s personal apartment.
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