Evita

Theatre Royal, Brighton, Wednesday, October 31

FOLLOWING a successful run at London’s Dominion Theatre, Bill Kenwright’s production of Evita hits Brighton this week and there’s no doubt about it, this musical oozes class.

The rags to riches story follows the life of Eva Peron, the wife of former Argentine director Juan Peron, from her humble beginnings through to her transformation into a wealthy, powerful and iconic figure, heralded as the spiritual leader of the nation.

With music by Andrew Lloyd Webber and lyrics by Tim Rice, you know you’re in for a good show, but Evita surpasses expectations with a quality cast and killer vocals.

Lucy O’Byrne is a powerhouse as Eva Peron, playing Argentina’s first lady with grit and passion.

Her voice is nothing short of incredible, powerful and authoritative when need be and beautifully crystal clear when portraying Eva’s vulnerable side.

Her performance is captivating. Stealing every scene, it’s impossible to keep your eyes off her.

The score features the songs Oh What A Circus, On This Night Of A Thousand Stars, Another Suitcase In Another Hall and, of course Evita’s most famous song, Don’t Cry For Me Argentina, performed superbly by O’Byrne.

Mike Sterling is perfectly cast as Juan Peron with rich vocals and charisma.

Glenn Carter plays Che, the musical’s everyman and narrator, providing scathing commentary and sharing heartfelt moments with the audience with soaring vocals.

Props also to the rest of the large cast who never falter in their attack of every lyric and dance move, whether playing discerning members of the upper class or mourners at Eva’s funeral.

This quality piece of theatre is enhanced with a very effective set, transforming seamlessly from a bar to the balcony where Eva makes her famous speech.

Evita was turned into a film in 1996 but it works so much better on stage.

Gemma Hicks-Logan