The world premiere of Carnival Dreams the Musical will be presented at the Ashcroft Theatre, Croydon from 3 to 6 February 2016.
With book and lyrics by Norman Mark and music by Robert Orledge, preparation for this new project is well underway.
Norman Mark, who worked as a professional performer before retraining as a psychiatric nurse and counsellor, originally wrote the book while living in Madeira. His new career path had steered him in the direction of mental health, social care, equality and diversity, although he always retained his passion for theatre and has written various novels and plays. He was commissioned to write Carnival Dreams by the Ministry of Culture as part of a programme to help counter prejudice. This was a subject very close to his heart as he had witnessed restrictions facing diverse young performers, especially those overseas, and was fully aware of the obstacles facing different sectors of society.
On his return to the UK, he met renowned composer Robert Orledge and the pair decided to collaborate on creating Carnival Dreams the Musical.
“Robert has composed some hauntingly original music, which really helps to convey the underlying message,” explained Norman. “Set during Carnival time it has the vibrancy one would expect, but there is also a darkness which emerges as we meet a diverse, complex and troubled group of characters. I believe in the strength of communities and the importance of them learning to live with each other, warts and all! That is what Carnival Dreams is about – diversity and community.”
The story revolves around a small community dance group in Argentina which is preparing for the annual Samba competition.
Former dance champion Andre is fighting his own inner demons. The bible-quoting misogynist Jose who mentally and physically abuses his wife, treats those around him with contempt and hates his daughter’s boyfriend Duarte, simply because of the colour of his skin. The flamboyantly camp drag queen Carmen hungers for stardom which he hopes will take him to a more tolerant place. Then a heart-wrenching tragedy unfolds. Can the dance troupe survive and win against this adversity?
Cheryl Fergison, who played the much loved Heather Trott in EastEnders, will lead the cast. Fergison’s credits include a host of other TV appearances including Little Britain and The IT Crowd. She is also a hugely experienced stage actress and has appeared in the West End and with the RSC as well as starring in several pantomimes. She is a skilled musician and multi-instrumentalist as well as being an accomplished singer/songwriter.
This new musical will be directed by Andrew Lynford, who also made his name in EastEnders, playing Simon Raymond and who, since then, has established himself as an acclaimed director. The musical director is Michael Lovelock, Penelope Simons is the choreographer and Cleo Pettitt takes on the role of designer. Stuart Morrison produces. “We are thrilled to have such a great team working on this show and indebted to the Ashcroft Theatre, Croydon for their support in mounting this production,” said Norman. “This production, while of the highest standard, is a try-out, enabling the entire team to analyse reaction and feedback and further develop the production. Our intention is to embark on a UK tour and then a London production.”
www.carnivaldreamsthemusical.com
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