Event

Jacques Brel is Alive and Well and Living in Paris

Pop songs have never garnered the respect they sometimes deserve in the U.S., but pop music in France in the 50's and 60's put unabashed energy and meaning into the mix. This revival of the Off-Broadway hit musical is a collection of 25 songs of the late 60's French singer/songwriter Jacques Brel, translated into English and arranged by Eric Blau and Mort Shuman, and crafted to build to an intense, emotional experience. The songs, ranging from heartbreaking to hilarious to the absurd, have been described as "pop songs on steroids" - songs about life, love, death, ecstasy, lust, jealousy, dogs... and more.

The show was originally performed in New York in 1968 for an extensive run, revived many times off-Broadway (most recently in 2006), and has been performed by hundreds of companies throughout the world. The talented Market Theatre cast consists of Guy Nelson, Jana Hutchison, Sofia Rybin, Bruce Story, Rebecca Olson and Marc Carvajal, along with a three-piece orchestra. The actors will sing the songs individually, in different groupings, or as an ensemble.

Quote from the Author/Playwright:

The poignant, passionate and profound songs of Belgian songwriter Jacques Brel are brought to vivid theatrical life in this intense musical experience. Brel's legendary romance, humor and moral conviction are evoked simply and directly, with four actors, four musicians and four stools. The result is a powerful, intimate, bold and emotional evening of theatre. Brimming with flair, attitude and European sophistication, these rich compositions bring to mind the groundbreaking work of Kurt Weill and Bertolt Brecht, creating a universe all their own that consistently startles with its daring, candor and insight. The sheer musical poetry of each song supports many layers of interpretation, giving the show a new and unexpected meaning with every new cast and production team that takes it on.