Bright Star
Music, Book & Story: Steve Martin
Music, Lyrics & Story: Edie Brickell
Directed by Johanna Spencer
Music direction TBD
Play Synopsis
From TRW: “Inspired by a true story and featuring the Tony®-nominated score by Steve Martin and Edie Brickell, Broadway’s Bright Star tells a sweeping tale of love and redemption set against the rich backdrop of the American South in the 1920s and ’40s. When literary editor Alice Murphy meets a young soldier just home from World War II, he awakens her longing for the child she once lost. Haunted by their unique connection, Alice sets out on a journey to understand her past—and what she finds has the power to transform both of their lives. With beautiful melodies and powerfully moving characters, the story unfolds as a rich tapestry of deep emotion. An uplifting theatrical journey that holds you tightly in its grasp, Bright Star is as refreshingly genuine as it is daringly hopeful.”
Vision Statement
Bright Star is based on a real story that takes place in North Carolina during the 20's and 40's against a backdrop of true American bluegrass music. It had a Broadway run in 2016 followed by a national tour. It has been one of the most popular musicals since reopening after the pandemic but has not played in many mid-valley theaters in Oregon. It will be a fresh new story to Corvallis/Albany folks and with the names Steve Martin and Edie Brickell attached is sure to be a draw. Bright Star tells the sweeping tale of love and redemption through the memories of editor Alice Murphy's eyes. This is a story that makes us feel hopeful and that all is not lost. Bright Star takes place in 1945-1946 with flashbacks to 1923 and incorporates an ensemble of performers and musicians. The staging would be simple and feature the musicians on stage, maybe under a Gazebo or on a raised wooden stage. The acting ensemble provides an enthusiastic display of dance and vocalizing to portray the story line.
Supplemental Materials