Broadway Actors To Perform In New Holland

Jordan Scott Gilbert, director of the Cavod Theatre production of "A Tale of Two Cities," thinks that staging the musical in the small theater will only enhance the telling. "It's a big show that we are trying to make intimate in this small space, which is great for storytelling," said Gilbert, who was the assistant producer of the show on Broadway. Gilbert chose "A Tale of Two Cities" along with Cavod artistic director Monica DePaul and Connie Dienner, director of Cavod Performing Arts.

"A Tale of Two Cities" will be presented at the Cavod Theatre, 641 W. Main St., New Holland, with a special opening night themed dinner theater at 6 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 14. Cocktail attire is requested for this red carpet event. The show will also be performed at 7 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 21; at 2 and 7 p.m. on Saturdays, Oct. 15 and 22; and at 4 p.m. on Sundays, Oct. 16 and 23.

"A Tale of Two Cities" with book, music, and lyrics by Jill Santoriello is based on Charles Dickens' 1859 novel that tells the tale of a love triangle. The story focuses on the beautiful Lucie Manette, played by Jackie Zliczewski; French aristocrat Charles Darnay, played by Alexander Weaver; and English cynic Sydney Carton, played by Bryant Martin. Walter Winston O'Neill, who took part in the Broadway production, will play Dr. Manette. Alicia Burton will play Miss Pross, and Hannah Rau will portray Madame Defarge. Set during the French Revolution, the story encompasses love and redemption in a way that parallels Cavod's mission. The show is choreographed by Stephanie Brooks Martin, with musical direction by Amy Rau. Glen Brodersen of Sight & Sound Theatre is handling the set.

Calling the show "vocally challenging," Gilbert relayed that the cast is doing a "really awesome job." "There are some cast members who are perfect for their roles," he noted of the cast of nearly 30. "My point of view with the storyline is God working in people, specifically the lead character (of Sydney Carton) to bring him to a place of faith," continued Gilbert. "I think it will be very moving and show the audience the depths people will go to save those that they love."

Dienner said that the show is a bit different for Cavod because there are dark moments. "It can be hard to find shows with redemptive meaning," she said, adding, "To show the redemption, you have to show the evil." Dienner said the show is for mature audiences and parental discretion is advised. She compared the show to another classic, "Les Miserables" by Victor Hugo. "It has a lot of the same feel (because) it's speaking from the heart," said Dienner.

Tickets, which are discounted for students, may be purchased at http://www.cavod.org or by emailing info@cafod.org or calling 717-354-3355.