BUY TICKETS
East Bay Premiere!
October 4-27
Friday and Saturday at 8 pm; Sunday at 2 pm
Running time
approximately 2 hours, 20 minutes, including one intermission.
From Grammy, Emmy, and Academy Award-winning Steve Martin and Grammy Award-winning Edie Brickell comes Bright Star, directed by Marilyn Langbehn, with music direction by Sheela Ramesh, and choreography by Allison Paraiso-Silicani. This five-time Tony-nominated musical tells a sweeping tale of love and redemption, inspired by a real event, and set against the rich backdrop of the American South in the ’20s and ’40s. Featuring an energetic and unique bluegrass score and propelled by an ensemble of onstage musicians and dancers, the story unfolds as a rich tapestry of deep emotion, beautiful melodies, and powerfully moving performances.
Director: Marilyn Langbehn
Music Director: Sheela Ramesh
Choreographer: Allison Paraiso-Silicani
Stage Manager: Georgia Taylor Benedict
Production Manager: Kristin Smith
Set Designer: Kuo-Hao Lo
Costume Designer: Mackenzie Laurel Orvis
Lighting Designer: Courtney Johnson
Sound Designer: Michael Kelly
Sound Engineer: Kristina Garrett
Props Designer: Devon LaBelle
Production photos
“Not only does Bright Star begin by telling its audience that it has a story to tell, the musical’s creative team does a splendid job of delivering the goods with remarkable fluidity. More than many new works, this show aces a crucial test of stageworthiness by making sure that its audience cares about its characters (an achievement that is easier said than done)…the intimacy of Bright Star’s story shines strong, backed by a musical score of immense appeal. It’s a show that grows on you with repeated viewing. I’m happy to report that the folks at CCCT did it proud.”
My Cultural Landscape October 12, 2019
“Marilyn Langbehn directs with a sure hand, keeping the pace lively, the set changes a joy and helping actors deliver honest, heart-warming performances. Chief among these is Danielle DeBow as Alice Murphy. A soaring voice and nuanced acting mark her lively portrayal of a feisty young girl in love and her more mature businesswoman self. She is well-matched with Michael Scott Wells as her love interest, Jimmy, and Lucas Kiehn-Thilman as young writer Billy.
In fact, there isn’t a weak link in this talented cast of 16. In addition to the wonderful ensemble numbers, there are many opportunities for individuals to shine, especially Keith Jefferds as Billy’s father and Shay Oglesby-Smith and Russ Whismore as Alice’s parents. Tosca Maltzman is also a joy as the spirited Lucy with Paul Plain as Jimmy’s not-so-nice father.”
East Bay Times, October 14, 2019