This May, at Capital Theatres’ Studio venue, Helen Milne Productions, known for challenging and boundary pushing work, present a work in progress of Lafayette: A New Musical. Written and directed by Scottish playwright John Binnie, with music, lyrics and co-writing by Richard Ferguson, and illusion and puppetry design by Fergus Dunnet, who was behind the excellent Hercules the Bear, the show is inspired by the life and legend of acclaimed illusionist Sigmund Neuberger, who was better known as The Great Lafayette.
On 9th May 1911, whilst performing one of his most famous illusions at Empire Palace Theatre, which is now better known as the Festival Theatre, the world-famous Lafayette was killed by a fire that engulfed the stage. Now, 115 years to the day, on the neighbouring Studio Theatre stage, a brand-new musical will revive the great magician’s story.
Blending storytelling and moments of illusion with an original score, Lafayette explores the cost of greatness, asks what one sacrifices to become unforgettable, and wrestles with what legacies we leave behind.
The work in progress performance presents a rare opportunity to gain a unique insight into the makings of a new musical and a 40 minute post-show Q&A offers the chance for audiences to ask the cast and creatives questions about the production and the life and legacy of The Great Lafayette.
Lafayette: A New Musical, whose casting is to be announced soon, is supported by Capital Theatres and Creative Scotland.
Venue: Studio Theatre, Edinburgh
Date and Time: Saturday 9th May@ 7.30pm
Running time: approx.1 hour
Tickets Price: £8
Age recommendation: 12+
Irene Brown
Radio Summerhall Arts 