Birds Of Paradise is a new musical with music by David Evans and Lyrics by Winnie Holzman, and book by Holzman and Evans. Birds Of Paradise will have its UK premiere in a production by MKEC Productions at the Drayton Arms Theatre from 2 – 20 May 2017.
When a group of eccentric amateur actors attempt to stage an absurd new musical version of Chekhov’s The Seagull, they each end up learning more than just their lines. As rehearsals go on, art starts to imitate life as they all learn valuable lessons in love and acceptance.
A joyful and witty comedy told through heartfelt songs and uplifting music, this UK premiere of Birds of Paradise will charm and delight fans of contemporary musical theatre. An early work of Winnie Holzman (writer of the book of Wicked), it showcases the comedic talents of one of the genre’s most influential authors.
Taking the role of Lawrence Wood is Ashley Knight (I Can’t Sing, London Palladium; She Loves Me, Savoy; Ghost –The Musical, Picadilly; Young Claudius in I, Claudius). Joining him are Ryan Taylor as Andy (Beauty and the Beast, Dominion; Mikado, G & S Opera Company; Tolkien, London Arts Theatre) Victoria Waddington as Marjorie, Stephanie Lyse as Stella, Elizabeth Chadwick as Hope, James Kenneth Haughan as Homer, Lottie Johnson as Julia and Stuart Scott as Dave.
