The Herberger Theater Center presents Islander Jan. 13-28, a new folk musical from Scotland, fresh off of a critically acclaimed off-Broadway run. Originally conceived and directed by Amy Draper, with tour staging and associate direction by Eve Nicol, a book by Stewart Melton, and music and lyrics by Finn Anderson, Islander uses live sound looping technology to create a spellbinding musical experience.
Staged with a contemporary folk-inspired score and epic storytelling, two performers reveal a world of characters, live-mixing and layering their voices to create a dazzling, unexpected soundscape as dramatic as the Scottish coastline. Eilidh is the only child on Kinnan Island, where most of the dwindling population has moved to the “Big Land.” As the island’s residents debate its future, a baby whale beaches itself, and Eilidh discovers a mysterious girl along the shore. This modern myth takes audiences on a journey that transcends loss, recovers hope and finds community.
The winner of Best New Musical at Edinburgh Festival Fringe, Islander was given five stars by BritishTheatre, who called it “A flawless gem…a modern folk tale that is hard not to fall in love with.” During its off-Broadway run, The Daily Beast touted that “Islander is really gorgeous—sharp, moving, funny, and one of the best musicals in New York.”
The company is double cast, with two performers performing each of the two roles at alternating performances. Sharing the role of Eilidh are Lois Craig and Sylvie Stenson, and sharing the role of Arran are Stephanie MacGaraidh and Julia Murray. In addition to their primary roles, they bring a multitude of other characters to life. The creative team also includes Scenic Designer Emma Bailey, Lighting Designer Simon Wilkinson, Costume Designer Hahnji Jang and Sound Designer Sam Kusnetz. Islander is produced in association with Setasea LLC, Helen Milne Productions, Theatre Royal Plymouth and Dundee Rep Theatre.
Tickets are available at HerbergerTheater.org or by calling the Box Office at 602-252-8497.
