MEHVITA
Eva Perón is back on stage downtown as San Francisco Playhouse stages the classic Broadway musical Evita. Inspired by a radio documentary about Perón, the first lady of Argentina, Evita began as a 1976 rock opera by Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice, the authors of Jesus Christ Superstar; it was staged as a musical on London’s West End in 1978 before moving to Broadway a year later. Hal Prince’s vision brought a cinematic flair to the storytelling, incorporating innovative set designs and staging techniques that highlighted Eva’s rise to power and her eventual downfall. With knockout numbers “Don’t Cry for Me Argentina,” “Buenos Aires,” and “Another Suitcase in Another Hall,” it entered the pantheon of contemporary musical theater. [Stage and Cinema reviewed three productions just in the last year.]
Eva Perón (Sophia Alawi)
Eva Perón (Sophia Alawi) with Gabriella Goldstein, Malia Abayon, and Dian Sitip Meechai
This staging by Bill English utilizes Heather Kenyon‘s simple set design, which uses a turntable, a few sparse but versatile set pieces, banners, and occasional projections from an onstage cameraman to round out the visuals.
Juan Perón (Peter Gregus)
Sofia Alawi is charismatic and vocally competent as Eva, showing no struggle with big vocal numbers like “Don’t Cry For Me Argentina.” Her onstage husband Juan Perón is played by Peter Gregus, who originated the role of Bob Crewe in Jersey Boys, which he played for the entire 11-year run. Gregus nails the look and presence of the late President of Argentina, but his vocals and memorization needed to be stronger.
Che (Alex Rodriguez) and Juan Perón (Peter Gregus)
Dave Dobrusky’s band soared, playing the familiar soundtrack with ease, as Alex Rodriguez masterfully walked us through the story with charm, and wit; he is the only standout vocalist of the night as the Argentinian Everyman Che. The ensemble is dynamic and diverse, and — despite an occasional struggle with harmonies — were talented and fluid in executing the program and its many set changes.
The Cast
But even solid performances by a few cast members and an iconic script don’t guarantee a successful outing. Evita suffers from some pacing, vocal and performance issues that had me leaving SF Playhouse ultimately disappointed. I wanted to love this production, but this Evita lacks the immersion, heart, and drama of the original. It’s a solid effort for the mid-size theatre company, but if you have seen this show on Broadway or on tour, this production will leave you wanting more.
Deanalís Arocho Resto, Christine M. Capsuto-Shulman, and Jurä Davis
photos by Jessica Palopoli
Perón's mistress (Chanel Tilghman)
Evita
San Francisco Playhouse, 450 Post Street in San Francisco
Tues-Thurs at 7; Fri at 8; Sat at 3 & 8; Sun at 2 & 7
ends on September 7, 2024
for tickets ($30-$125), call 415.677.9596 or visit SF Playhouse
Christopher J. Beale is an award-winning journalist, media host and producer based in San Francisco
The Cast
