Rehearsals are well underway for the first production of the historic 25th anniversary season at the Drayton Festival Theatre.
From the creators of Twist and Shout: The British Invasion, Legends … of Rock ‘n’ Roll will have audiences snapping their fingers and shaking in their seats … this time to the beat of classic songs by rock and roll’s musical legends, officials say.
Conceived and directed by Drayton Entertainment artistic director Alex Mustakas, Legends … of Rock ‘n’ Roll is a tribute to the incredible artists from the mid-1950s through the 1970s, who refused to bow to industry pressure and creatively set their own musical trends.
Their unique influence is celebrated in this energetic, fun-filled musical revue featuring classic songs by Elvis Presley, Roy Orbison, Jerry Lee Lewis, The Beach Boys, The Everly Brothers, Elton John, ABBA, The Monkees, Simon and Garfunkel, Sonny and Cher, and many more.
“Legends … of Rock ‘n’ Roll is essentially a hit-parade of over 60 classic songs mixed with comedic sketches and exciting dance numbers,” said Mustakas. “The production pays tribute to the unforgettable sounds that shaped the minds and attitudes of an entire generation.”
Drayton Entertainment premiered Legends … of Rock ‘n’ Roll at the St. Jacobs Country Playhouse in 2007 and it became an instant hit, selling out the entire run in record time.
A first-rate cast of performers with remarkable voices has been assembled, officials say, including Michael Clarke, Thomas Colford, Michael De Rose, Gerrad Everard, Christine Glen, Jennifer Kee, Michel LaFlèche, Chad McNamara, Laura Mae Nason, Kimberly O’Neill, Yvan Pedneault, Lee Siegel, Valerie Stanois and Breanna Willis.
“Audiences are going to be blown away by the calibre of talent on stage,” said Mustakas.
Working alongside Mustakas to mount the show are choreographer Gino Berti, music director Michael Lerner, lighting designer Jeff Johnston Collins and costume designer Jenine Kroeplin, with video elements by Peter Conrad and Steve Kelly.
Regular performance tickets are $42 for adults; $25 for youth under 20 years of age.
Tickets for preview performances scheduled before the official opening and groups of 20 or more are $34. HST is applicable to all ticket prices.
Legends … of Rock ‘n’ Roll runs May 14 through June 6. Tickets can be purchased in person at the Drayton Festival Theatre, online at www.draytonfestivaltheatre.com or by calling the box office at 519-638-5555 or toll free at 1-855-drayton (372-9866).
