"It's a season of laughter and poignancy, and of glorious music and dance," artistic director Michael Ritchie said in a statement. "There is a huge amount of talent surrounding the productions we are presenting next year, and I know Los Angeles audiences will be thoroughly pleased by this and by the scope and sheer entertainment of what we are offering. It will be a season to remember."
The season will include Cicely Tyson reprising her Tony-winning performance in Horton Foote's The Trip to Bountiful. Directed by Michael Wilson, the play will begin performances Sept. 17, prior to an official opening Sept. 26 and continue through Nov. 2.
“The Trip to Bountiful tells Mother Watts' story," press notes state. "She is an elderly woman forced to live with her overprotective son and domineering daughter-in-law. Her dream is to return for one last time to her small hometown in Bountiful, Texas. Her journey becomes a heartbreaking but ultimately life-affirming and inspiring tale that examines the fragility of memory and celebrates the enduring power of hope, faith and family."
Heartbeat of Home, created by producers and the director of Riverdance, will begin performances Dec. 9, prior to officially opening Dec. 10 and continue through Jan. 18, 2015. Described as "a celebration of the rhythms of Ireland, Cuba, Africa, Spain and more," the production will feature music by Brian Byrne, lyrics and narrative by Joseph O'Connor and choreography by David Bolger and John Carey.
Dame Edna and Barry Humphries: The Final Farewell Tour will begin Jan. 24, prior to an official opening Jan. 28 and continue through March 15. Simon Phillips will direct. Here's how the show is billed: "In a side-splitting, historic finale, Barry Humphries, with his beloved creation – Dame Edna Everage, is capping a spectacular career spanning 50 years of bravura showmanship in this farewell to celebratory, sold-out performances across world. With her take-no-prisoners comedy and hijinks, Dame Edna is not going out with a whimper: No one is safe from the Dame's wicked tongue."
Rodgers & Hammerstein's Cinderella will begin performances March 17, prior to an official opening March 18, and continue through April 26. Featuring music by Richard Rodgers, lyrics by Oscar Hammerstein II, a new book by Douglas Carter Beane and original book by Oscar Hammerstein II, the musical is directed by Mark Brokaw and choreographed by Josh Rhodes. Music adaptation, supervision and arrangements are by David Chase and orchestrations are by Danny Troob.
"More than just a pretty face with the right shoe size, this Cinderella is a contemporary figure living in a fairy tale setting," press notes state. "She is a spirited young woman with savvy and soul who doesn't let her rags or her gowns trip her up in her quest for kindness, compassion and forgiveness. She not only fights for her own dreams, but forces the prince to open his eyes to the world around him and realize his dreams too."
Adapted from Roald Dahl's children's book, Matilda The Musical will begin performances May 29, prior to an official opening June 7. The production will continue through July 12, directed by Tony Award winner Matthew Warchus (God of Carnage). The production features a book by Tony Award-winning playwright Dennis Kelly; music and lyrics by Australian comedian, musician and composer Tim Minchin; sets and costumes by Tony Award winner Rob Howell; and choreography by Peter Darling.
"It is the story of an extraordinary girl who dreams of a better life," press notes state. "Armed with a vivid imagination and a sharp mind, Matilda dares to take a stand and change her destiny."
Tickets for the Ahmanson Theatre's 48th season are currently available by subscription only. For information and to charge season tickets by phone, call the Exclusive Season Ticket Hotline at (213) 972-4444.
Visit centertheatregroup.org/Ahmanson for more information.
