Bob Dylan’s songs reimagined in this dark, yet funny musical will leave you contemplating the challenges of life while singing “Forever Young.” Set in the cold winter of Duluth, Minnesota in 1934, hard times are explored with an unlikely grouping of people living in or passing through a guesthouse.
The beautiful and sometimes haunting music is exceptionally performed by this cast. Kelly McCormick stepped in as Elizabeth Laine on opening night in Austin, delivering nail biting one liners that shock the audience before explosions of laughter are heard. Each character develops partially, leaving much room for interpretation. Themes like the immaculate conception are hinted at then supported when you realize the character’s name is “Marianne” and she becomes a love interest to “Joe.”
The complications of life are deeply explored in this musical while familiar songs are intertwined with unique mashups.
How to See Girl From the North Country:
Who: Texas Performing Arts Presents Broadway in Austin
When: April 24 through 28, 2024
Where: Bass Concert Hall | 2350 Robert Dedman Drive
How: Tickets start at $30 and are available here.
Still to come this Broadway in Austin season: Frozen (June 5 through 16).
This article was contributed by Michele Schmidt. Though she has lived in California and New York while working in film production and the world of ballet simultaneously, Michele is proud to call Austin home. She has taught dance all over the country and currently works with cast members from Broadway National Tours setting up Master Classes in every city stop. When she’s not running her two children around to activities and events around town, she loves to attend film festivals, concerts, and other So Austin events, which she documents for Austin.com and various other media outlets.
Featured photo of Aidan Wharton and the cast of the GIRL FROM THE NORTH COUNTRY North American Tour by Evan Zimmerman for MurphyMade.
