ASSASSINS
Music and Lyrics by Stephen Sondheim
Book by John Weidman
Directed by George Everts
About the Play
"Assassins" is a provocative musical meticulously crafted by the renowned composer and lyricist Stephen Sondheim that delves deeply into the complex lives and varied experiences of individuals who attempted to assassinate U.S. presidents throughout the extensive course of American history. Through a compelling blend of dark humour and poignant reflection, the show thoughtfully explores profound themes such as ambition, disillusionment, and the elusive concept of the American Dream, which resonates with many. Each character's intricate backstory reveals their unique motivations and personal struggles, offering audiences a distinctive perspective on the notion of violence as a complicated means of expression or perhaps a desperate plea for fundamental change. The complex score, enhanced by an innovative narrative structure, invites the audience to engage actively with uncomfortable questions about identity, agency, and the intricate socio-political landscape of America, prompting deeper reflection long after the curtain falls.
Music & Lyrics
Stephen Sondheim
Stephen Sondheim (1930-2021) was a prominent and influential American composer and lyricist who is widely known for his considerable impact on the world of musical theatre. His illustrious career spanned over six remarkable decades and was marked by complex themes, innovative melodies, and exceptionally sophisticated lyrics. Some of his early works include the iconic "West Side Story" and the beloved "Gypsy." Sondheim's original musicals, including the chilling "Sweeney Todd," the enchanting "Into the Woods," and the groundbreaking "Company," completely redefined storytelling in the genre and set new standards for theatrical excellence. Throughout his lifetime, he received numerous prestigious accolades, including multiple Tony Awards as well as a Pulitzer Prize. Sondheim's enduring legacy continues to inspire both artists and audiences in the realm of theatre today, ensuring his profound influence will be felt for generations to come.
Book
John Weidman
John Weidman is a highly regarded American playwright and librettist, celebrated for his exceptional contributions to the world of musical theatre. He gained considerable fame for notable productions such as "Pacific Overtures," which features music by the legendary Stephen Sondheim, and "Assassins," a compelling work that delves into the complex lives of individuals who attempted to assassinate U.S. presidents throughout history. Weidman's writing seamlessly blends intricate storytelling with thought-provoking themes, offering rich insights that resonate with both historical and contemporary relevance. His numerous collaborations with various talented composers and production teams have significantly enhanced the diversity and richness of American theatre, making his work an important fixture in the theatrical landscape.
Concept
Charles Gilbert Jr.
Charles Gilbert Jr. was a highly regarded and prominent American writer and composer, celebrated for his influential and groundbreaking work in the multifaceted realms of musical theatre and songwriting. His remarkable creations seamlessly blended poignant and thought-provoking lyrics with captivating and memorable melodies, showcasing a profound and deep understanding of character development and intricate emotional complexity. Throughout his extensive and illustrious career, Gilbert explored a diverse and varied array of themes, ranging from heartfelt love stories to insightful social commentaries, thereby demonstrating his remarkable versatility and boundless creativity. His enduring legacy continues to inspire and motivate new generations of talented performers, innovative composers, and aspiring writers in the ever-evolving landscape of musical theatre, ensuring that his profound impact and contributions will be felt for many years to come.
Director
George Everts
George caught the theatre bug at a young age, performing in a high school production of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat that was cancelled before reaching opening night (he still doesn't know why). Since then, he has been impossible to keep off a stage. He has fairly recently made the leap to the other side of the audition table, having directed productions of "How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying", "Grease", "The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (Abridged), "The Addams Family", and "Twisted" over the last few years. Over that time, he has continued to perform. He is thrilled to be back at the Dolphin, bringing a musical which he has so much love and respect for to the stage..
Director’s Notes
Assassins is a fantastic show that we are really excited to be bringing to the stage. Despite its historical roots, and age, it is an incredibly topical show, that asks the question “If you do everything that you’re supposed to, and don’t get what you need… what do you do?” The intention for this show is to lean into the comedic aspects of it, while making sure that the serious subject matter, as well as depictions of real life people, are treated with care, respect, and attention to detail. While this is a difficult show, with complex characters, themes and music that we intend to work very hard to do justice to, the primary intention is that everybody has a good time.
We are searching for a set of strong actors and storytellers, who can bring this group of intriguing characters to life, and have a blast doing it.
AUDITION Notice!
Be a part of this fabulous musical.
Dolphin theatre is a community theatre and is run entirely by volunteers.
All acting roles are unpaid.