Alberta Theatre Projects is ending the 2004/2005 season in the same way it began – with two talented actors taking their audience through an array of characters, morphing between them using only their voices and body language. Running from May 3rd – 21st, 2 Pianos 4 Hands stars Kevin McGugan as Richard, and Jonathan Monro as Ted, two boys in search of concert pianist stardom.
The first half sees each actor play the youngest version of their character, while the rest portrays the influences in their life – teachers, adjudicators and parents. The two main characters grow up over 15 years as friendly rivals, competing in festivals and trying to become famous. Along the way they experience the terror of the limits to their own ambitions.
The play was written by Ted Dykstra and Richard Greenblatt, who originally starred in the production. It has been performed, sold out, to audiences in 100 cities and four continents – even translated to French, German and Japanese. It is one of the most successful Canadian productions, proving both men are talented actors and pianists.
McGugan and Monro are left with the unenviable task of filling the shoes of the original actors, especially since long-time ATP patrons will remember Dykstra and Greenblatt performing in the original, back in the fall of 1996. But considering their background, they can pull it off. Monro grew up in Newfoundland and started his career as a concert pianist, playing in New York’s famed Carnegie Recital Hall at age 16. In 1995 he switched to acting, starring in two Broadway shows, as well as the US Touring production of 2 Pianos 4 Hands. McGugan has design and music direction credits for plays across the prairies.
The show is very much about dreams – the desire for success, the hope and passion for something that consumes your life – and wraps it up amidst music and a warmhearted comedy.
Much like the two talented actors in season opener Stones in His Pockets, McGugan, Monro, and director Bob White will take you on a journey that is sure to strike a chord. Make sure you get your tickets, as the show is very popular. It is a fitting way to cap off what has been a fantastic season of Alberta Theatre Projects!.
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Contributor Jason Clevett |
Locale Calgary |
Topic Alberta Theatre Projects | Theatre |
