Opening night is already sold out, as the Palm Canyon Theatre prepares to bring Evita to the stage during its 20th anniversary season. Evita runs February 17th to March 5th.
 
Evita is Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice’s dramatization of the life of Argentine political leader Eva Duarte de Perón. The story follows “Evita’s” early life, her time as an actress, then marriage to Colonel Juan Perón, her rise to power, charity work, and eventual death. Se Layne will play Eva Perón for the fourth time, the third at PCT.
 
The show also stars Luke Rainey as Juan Perón. Rainey has been in many PCT productions. Most recently Rainey played Potiphar in the production of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. Jacob Samples will play Che Guevara, who, although a historical figure, is Webber and Rice’s fictional narrator who illustrates the opposition to Perónism.
 
Evita is directed by Michael Hadley, who is often seen on stage at PCT including portraying Brother Boy in Sordid Lives and the Emcee in Cabaret. Steven Smith is PCT’s Resident Music Director. Smith has conducted more than 100 musicals, leading such notable orchestras as Long Beach’s Civic Light Opera and Berlin’s Theatre Des Westins. Smith leads a trio of live musicians in PCT’s production of Evita and will play on a newly donated baby grand piano.
 
Se Layne as Evita
Resident Costume Designer Derik Shopinski is creating more than 40 original costumes for this performance, including 20 custom costumes for Layne as she plays “Evita.” An award-winning dancer and instructor, Shopinski is also the choreographer for this production, and will be seen on stage as Mario and in the ensemble. Sets and lighting designs are by J.W. Layne, co-artistic director of PCT.
 
Evita is part of the Palm Canyon Theatre’s 20th Anniversary Season. The musical opens Friday, February 17, and runs through Sunday, March 5. Regular show times are 8 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, and 7 p.m. on Thursdays. Sunday matinees start at 2 p.m. Tickets are $32-$36. Student tickets are $15, with valid ID; student tickets must be purchased at the Box Office.
 
On Saturday, February 18 the theatre will pair the Evita performance with a pre-reception gala to celebrate its 20th anniversary. Tickets for this special anniversary celebration start at $75.
 
For tickets or more information, call the Palm Canyon Theatre Box Office at 760-323-5123 or order online: The Pa.m Canyon Theatre is located at 538 North Palm Canyon Drive, at the corner of Alejo Road and Palm Canyon Drive. Box Office hours are Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.