Eugene Onegin: A Bluegrass Musical is grabbing attention at TheatreSquared in Fayetteville,running until June 28. This world premiere by Sarah Gancher draws comparisons to Hadestown. Two love stories intertwine — one of loss, another of unfulfilled affection — all set to bluegrass.
Inspired by Alexander Pushkin's 1832 novel, story follows traveling musician Eugene Onegin in small-town Arkansas. He meets Tanya,an aspiring singer who falls for him. But he rejects her,only to realize his feelings decades later on Grand Ole Opry stage. By then,she's married. This retelling adds layers to original tale,including a tragic subplot with Lensky and Olga .
Despite regret and loss themes,musical's lively score uplifts viewers. Traditional bluegrass song circle promises joy. Tanya,played by Jane Bruce,shines. Bruce, making her TheatreSquared debut, has impressive roles in Harry Potter and the Cursed Child and Jagged Little Pill. Her Tanya captures dreams of escaping small-town life.
Cory Jeacoma plays Eugene,bringing Broadway chops. Known from Beautiful: The Carole King Musical and Jersey Boys, Jeacoma adds layers to Eugene. Both charming and potentially heartbreaking. Tanya and Eugene's dynamic echoes Hades and Persephone, hinting at deeper love and loss themes.
Adrian Blake Enscoe as Lensky and Sydney Shepherd as Olga enrich the story. Real-life couple,they perform with folk trio Bandits on the Run. Their stage chemistry enhances emotional weight.
Directed by Rachel Chavkin,Tony winner for Hadestown. Chavkin transforms stage from 1940s Arkansas to 1960s Nashville . Immersive experience invites audience to join,ending Act I with a "party break".
Gancher has history with TheatreSquared,debuting Russian Troll Farm there in 2020. Her return with Eugene Onegin is another big moment for theater. Recognition likely as musical earns accolades...
Interested in this enchanting show? Performances at 7:30 p.m. from June 23 to 27, with 2 p.m. matinee on June 28. Tickets $25-$71. More info at theatre2.org/eugene-onegin.
