ZACH Theatre opens THE GRAPES OF WRATH this weekend.
The stage adaptation of John Steinback's masterpiece uniquely incorporates music into the play -- and, of course, ZACH's adaptation has musical flair that is uniquely Austin.
The music, under the direction of Allen Robertson, (one of the creative duo in "The Biscuit Brothers"), punctuates the dramatic action with orchestrations inspired by music of the 1930's. Sometimes it is just a vocal accapella or harmonizing with other vocals or simple underscoring from a guitar, accordion or a traditional instrument like a saw.
Powerful, emotional moments in ZACH's production are underscored by stirring renditions of traditional hymns like Swing Low, Sweet Chariot and Pass Me Not O Gentle Savior (MP3 downloads are below). There is also a wonderful comic song in which used car salesmen, led by John Pointer, try to unload their old wrecks by taking advantage of the poor "Okies" who were fleeing for California.
But you don't have to take our word for it. Here are a couple tracks from the show to wet your whistle:
Pass Me Not O Gentle Savior
Swing Low, Sweet Chariot
Stay tuned, we'll be posting more MP3s from THE GRAPES OF WRATH throughout its run.
THE GRAPES OF WRATH performances begin at 7:30pm tonight, and opening night's champagne toast is this Sunday after the show. During opening week, you can buy one ticket and get a second ticket free by calling our box office at (512) 476-0541, ext. 1, and mentioning ZACH's Z News blog.
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