If you’ve talked to me in the past few days, you know that I am extremely excited about Gannon’s musical, "Evita". This is only partly because I’m in it (especially since I’m in it as a mover of furniture...and a door.). I’ve taken to listing the other reasons whenever I bring up the show. So if you haven’t talked to me in the past few days, here’s my personal argument for why you should see "Evita":
1. You will learn about Argentine history... sort of.
I’ve seen "Evita" described as “loosely based on a true story... how loosely depends on who you ask.” My grandpa, who lived in Argentina, would say it’s very, very, very loosely based. And that being said, he still likes the show. So let’s say you’ll get an interesting twist on history.
2. It’s open to interpretation
Unlike many (most?) musicals, "Evita" doesn’t tell you what to think of its main character, Eva. The narrator clearly doesn’t like her, but is the audience even supposed to like the narrator? When is Eva being honest, and when is she being manipulative? Do you agree with her actions? Do you understand her reasoning even if you don’t agree with them? As Fr. Shawn Clerkin pointed out, the show doesn’t really get in any character's head to try to get you on their side. Everyone who watches it gets to make up their own mind.
3. The theater arrangement is unique
It’s called “alley theater”: the seating is arranged on two sides of the stage, so all the action takes place in between the two sections of audience. It’s something you’ve probably never seen before (I hadn’t) that brings you into the world of the show.
4. The music develops the story even further
"Evita" is a rock opera, which means that almost everything in the show is sung. (I can think of four exceptions, and they’re all key moments that are emphasized by the lack of melody). Like in his other shows, Andrew Lloyd Webber reuses music throughout the show. It pulls different parts of the show together and helps the audience make connections. The change in Eva throughout the show is highlighted when she sings about being “dressed up, somewhere to go, [to] put on a show” first near the beginning and then partway through the show. And “What happens now? Where am I going to?” might tug at the heart a little the first time it’s heard, but it’s almost certain to when you hear it again.
5. The snarky dialogue
I can't think of an example that isn't spoilerly off the top of my head, but take my word for it, Eva, her husband Juan Peron, and the narrator all have their cleverly snide moments.
6. My amazing friend (and fellow Odyssey writer) Brandon Saraniti dances a passionate tango
It’s intense and dramatic. I also love that it’s symbolic of what’s going on between the main characters at the same time.
If passionate dancing isn’t your thing, Brandon also punches the show’s narrator. Three different times.
7. The “game” of politics is represented by a literal game of musical chairs.
With extremely awesome music. And me stealing the chairs.
"Evita" has four more shows: Thursday, Friday, and Saturday night at 8pm, and Sunday at 2pm. Admission is free with a Gannon ID. What could be better for a pre-Finals weekend study break?
