Photos courtesy of Mark Garvin Photography
Co-devisor Nick Crowley directs a talented ensemble of four actors, who collectively play over 30 of Guthrie’s songs on acoustic instruments ranging from guitar, violin, autoharp, banjo, harmonica, and spoons.
People’s Light & Theatre presents Woody Sez: The Life and Music of Woody Guthrie running May 7th-25th on the Leonard C. Haas Stage. Nick Corley directs.
Woody Sez: The Life & Music of Woody Guthrie is a biographical-music review that utilizes the famous American folk singer’s own words, writings, and songs to present a retelling of Guthrie’s inspirational life and share why Guthrie’s experiences and activism are still relevant today. “Woody Sez is a show about a man and his songs,” says co-creator David M. Lutken, who also portrays the folksy bard himself. Co-devisor Nick Crowley directs a talented ensemble of four actors, who collectively play over 30 of Guthrie’s songs on acoustic instruments ranging from guitar, violin, autoharp, banjo, harmonica, and spoons.
The variety of songs showcased in Woody Sez highlights Guthrie’s unique ability to touch on world-wide and personal events and features many of his hits including, “Riding in My Car” and “This Train is Bound for Glory,” as well as his more activist inspired songs like “Vigilante Man” and “The Ballad of Tome Joad.”
Corley, Lutken, and the ensemble have traveled the world presenting this unique tale of America’s folk hero, who utilized the power of his voice to speak out for those without the power to do so. Woody Sez premiered at the Edinburgh Festival in Scotland, and since then has traveled all over the world from London’s West End, to China, to Washington D.C., to Milwaukee and now to Malvern, PA.
Enhance Your Experience at People’s Light
People’s Light continues its program called Scoop on Sundays: History, Context, and Gossip, a lively discussion before every Sunday 7 pm performance (May 11, 18 & 25). Resident Dramaturg Gina Pisasale will host an artist from the production and get the inside scoop about such things as the rehearsal and production process, design choices, and the world of the play. The program begins at 5:30 in The Farmhouse Bistro. Cost of $15 includes light fare. Call the Box Office at 610.644.3500.
In the spirit of Woody Guthrie, join us for ‘Hootenanny Thursdays’ following the 7:30pm Thursday performances on May 8th, 15th, and 22nd. These post show-jam sessions are a great opportunity to meet the cast of Woody Sez, as well as share your musical talents, as all level of musicians are invited to bring their instruments and carry on the legacy of America’s greatest folk activist.
Ticket Information
Woody Sez: The Life and Music of Woody Guthrie previews on Wednesday, May 7th and Thursday, May 8th at 7:30 pm and Friday, May 9th at 8 pm. The play opens on Saturday, May 10th and runs through Sunday, May 25th, 2014.
Single tickets: $26 – $46. For tickets, call the Box Office at 610.644.3500. Special discounts are available for groups of 10 or more. For more information or to purchase group tickets, call 610.647.1900 x111 or email wright@peopleslight.org.
Actors, prices, productions, performance dates and times are subject to change. Additional service charges will apply. Contact the Box Office for more details.
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