- By KEN WERTHER
- Photo Courtesy of THE WALLIS
As the Wallis Center for the Performing Arts in Beverly Hills continues its search for a new artistic director, things are really hopping on its stages. This month, in collaboration with the University of Delaware Master Player Concert Series, the Wallis is presenting Shanghai Sonatas: A New Musical In Concert in the Bram Goldsmith Theater. With concept and music by Sean (Xiang) Gao, book by Alan Goodson, lyrics by Joyce Hill Stoner, and conducted by Noreen Green, Shanghai Sonatas is the compelling tale of how the unifying power of music brings cultures together. Ittells the story of Jewish refugee musicians finding sanctuary in the Jewish Ghetto of Shanghai in the 1940s. As a Jewish violinist takes on a troubled Chinese teenager as his student, a connection is made that helps both overcome their trauma and survive the war. This musical theater work, setting ripples in motion that carry through to this day, is based on first-person accounts of European musicians who used their optimism, humor, and musical talents to survive, forging friendships with their Chinese neighbors who saved their lives until Allied forces brought freedom to the region in 1945. There will be four performances only, on Thursday and Friday, March 16 and 17 at 8pm, and Saturday, March 18, at 2pm and 8pm. If you attend opening night on March 16, there will be a post-performance reception hosted by LAArtsOnline.com!
For tickets and more details, click here.
