The Manship Theatre in Baton Rouge is set to host the 25th Anniversary production of “Evangeline the Musical in Concert,” a Broadway-style musical based on Henry Wadsworth Longfellow’s epic poem, Evangeline. The event will take place from August 22 to 25.
The musical, which poignantly recounts the story of Evangeline and Gabriel, two young Acadians separated shortly after their betrothal, brings to life the history of Acadians being torn from their homeland during the Great Deportation, serving as a stirring testament to the strength and courage of the Acadian people.
“Evangeline the Musical in Concert” showcases the power of music and storytelling, with a blend of moving ballads, heart-wrenching duets, comical patter songs, and rich ensemble numbers. The production has consistently touched audiences of all ages, often playing to sold-out venues.
The musical’s creator, Paul Taranto, composed the music and wrote many of the lyrics, driven by his belief in the importance of sharing the Acadian people’s story of resilience and faith. The 25th Anniversary production will feature a talented cast of more than 40 actors, including:
- Fr. Felician: Andre Chapoy
- Evangeline: Ana Andricain
- Gabriel: Jason Dowies
- Benedict: Kevin Harger
- Matt: Ray Gaspard
Paul Taranto will serve as both music director and conductor, with his wife, Darlene Taranto, taking on the role of producer, supported by their son Michael as production assistant.
The musical has a rich history of productions since Taranto first collaborated with Jamie Wax. It premiered at Episcopal High School of Baton Rouge, where Taranto was the Director of Bands for 30 years. The musical quickly gained acclaim, leading to sold-out performances at LSU’s summer musical and subsequent productions at the Heymann Center in Lafayette, LA. Notably, the beautiful Strand Theater in Shreveport hosted a production that was taped for telecast on Louisiana’s Public Broadcasting and was later broadcast nationwide by PBS.
The musical’s popularity has spurred regional productions throughout Louisiana and even out-of-state, with performances by Ave Maria University in Florida and by Legatus in Phoenix, Arizona. The production also went international with a performance in Nova Scotia, near the area of the original Acadian Expulsion. A Canadian grant later funded a complete translation of “Evangeline the Musical” into Acadian French, leading to a full French version production.
For tickets and more information, visit Manship Theatre’s website.
