February 25, 2005

CMT Mainstage presents ‘Aida’ March 4 – 13

Evergreen residents in supporting roles

Evergreen residents Missy Harter, Angeline Navarro and Zohaib Khan play supporting roles in the Children’s Musical Theater (CMT) San Jose production of Broadway’s blockbuster, Elton John and Tim Rice’s “Aida.” This much-anticipated production plays two weeks only, March 4 – 13, at the Montgomery Theater in downtown San Jose (corner of Market and San Carlos streets).

Julie Thomas (center) plays Aida, a Nubian princess stolen from her country. Both Aida and Amneris, an Egyptian princess played by Kelly Black, fall in love with the warrior Radames, played by Frankie Mulcahy. Photo by Josh Miyaji.

The musical tells the story of Aida, a Nubian princess stolen from her country, Amneris, an Egyptian princess and Radames, the soldier they both love. Set on the banks of the Nile River, “Aida” is an epic and classic tale of love, loyalty, betrayal and courage with music and lyrics by Elton John and Tim Rice, also known for their award-winning collaboration of “The Lion King.”

The play opened on Broadway in March 2003, and won four Tony Awards® including Best Original Score, as well as a Grammy® for Best Original Musical Album.

CMT’s production, the first non-equity production in the United States, features a talented cast of 14- to 20-year-old performers. Inspired by the original Broadway production, CMT Mainstage will transport audiences back to ancient Egypt on a contemporary journey that will leave them inspired by the power of love and truth.

“Aida” is directed and choreographed by artistic director, Kevin R. Hauge, with musical direction by Mason Kimont. Hauge is responsible for the theater company’s ongoing excellence and access to highly coveted properties such this production as well as “Miss Saigon,” which the Mainstage performers presented this past summer.

“Presenting such contemporary work inspires our performers and encourages them to put forth their best efforts,” say Hauge. “With “Aida,” audiences will again be enthralled by the talent level of these performers and the professional quality of CMT Mainstage productions.” Always a positive voice for his company members, Hauge encourages new audiences to experience “Aida” and enjoy some of the best theater the Bay Area has to offer.

Tickets are now on sale for $18 adults and $13 children 12 and under. CMT is proud to announce a year-long sponsorship from the Target® Corporation. The first Saturday matinee of each 2004 – 2005 production will be a Target® Family Matinee with all Mainstage prices fixed at $9.50. The “Aida” Target® Family Matinee will be Saturday, March 5 at 2 p.m.

For more information or to purchase tickets, please visit the CMTSJ Web site at www.cmtsj.org. or phone the CMT Box Office at (408) 288.5437. Tickets may also be purchased in person at the CMT Box Office, 1401 Parkmoor Avenue (at Meridian), San Jose, Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. or the Montgomery Theater one hour prior to performances.