December 13, 2001 - 4:00pm
Two years ago Tony Bancroft set his sights on a watermark production that would celebrate 25 years of theatre-making at Malaspina University-College. When Titanic, the Musical -- the five-time Tony award-winning musical -- steamed into New York, he knew his search was over.
"When we acquired the rights to Titanic, I knew we had something special," said Bancroft, Malaspina's theatre director.
"This is a musical with a grand theme -- the archetypal voyage of the 20th Century, where the dream of human progress runs headlong into the inviolate forces of nature. It's an exceptionally rich production and the ideal match for our 25th season.
"The shocking tale of Titanic's maiden voyage has held us spellbound for nearly 100 years. It's a story of blind ambition and tragedy, of greed and honour, of sacrifice and survival…and it began with a magnificent dream of human achievement: The largest, most glorious ship in history. Our task is to dream upon and then to build a floating city," said Bancroft.
The musical will feature a full live orchestra, an inspired stage design, and a large and talented cast comprised of current students, distinguished graduates, members of the local thespian community, and theatre professionals from Vancouver.
Joining Bancroft in the endeavour is a host of exceptional senior artists: Musical director Bill Costin, set designer Catherine Hahn, costume designer Vivien Frow, lighting designer Michael Taugher, and scenic artist Molly March.
Bancroft has good reason to be excited about the anniversary production.
"Few theatres anywhere could produce a musical of this kind, and it's only conceivable here through the efforts of a massive team. The art department; the hospitality management and culinary arts programs; the music, welding and history departments; and our marketing students are all on board. It's a true collective effort on the part of the University-College and a real contribution to the community," he said.
In contrast to the film, the live production will highlight -- with historical accuracy -- the millionaires, merchants, and working class souls who set sail on Titanic's maiden voyage that fateful spring morning in 1912.
This spring we'll have the chance to set sail along with them on one of the most celebrated voyages in history. Titanic, the Musical, with music and lyrics by Maury Yeston and book by Peter Stone, will be performed March 14 through 23, 2002, in the Malaspina University-College Theatre.
It will be a journey not to be missed.
Tags: In the Community
