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New Musical ‘Garden of Good and Evil’ Premieres at Goodman Theatre
Recently, J. Harrison Ghee captivated audiences with his performance of ‘Let There Be Light’ during the world premiere of the musical adaptation, *Garden of Good and Evil*, at Goodman Theatre. This stage production breathes new life into John Berendt’s renowned non-fiction work, with creative contributions from MacArthur “Genius” Award recipient Taylor Mac, who crafted the adaptation, and Tony Award-winning composer Jason Robert Brown, responsible for the music and lyrics. Choreography is elegantly executed by Tanya Birl-Torres.
Helming this production is Tony Award winner Rob Ashford, who has assembled a talented ensemble cast. Ghee portrays the iconic character of The Lady Chablis, bringing depth and vibrancy to the role. He is joined by Tony Award nominee Tom Hewitt, who takes on the character of the enigmatic Jim Williams, and Olivier Award nominee Sierra Boggess, who plays Emma Dawes, thus establishing a strong dynamic among the performers.
Set against the background of Savannah, Georgia, the story delves into the city’s rich southern charm, juxtaposed with the darker secrets harbored by its residents. Central to the plot is the murder accusation against affluent antiques dealer Jim Williams, which sets off a sensational trial. This courtroom drama peels back layers to reveal complex motivations and hidden truths, illustrating a thin line between virtue and vice. As the narrative unfolds, the spirited characters, including the charismatic Lady Chablis, find themselves catalyzing significant changes within their community.
*Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil*, the original book by John Berendt, achieved immense popularity upon its release in 1994, earning a place on the New York Times Best-Seller list for an astounding 216 weeks and being nominated for a Pulitzer Prize. Its transformation into a musical promises to offer a fresh, engaging perspective on the stories and personalities that have long captivated readers and audiences alike.
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www.broadwayworld.com