The world premiere of the highly-anticipated new musical Vanara will take place at Hackney Empire this October. Following two workshop performances, and an acclaimed concept album featuring some of the biggest names in musical theatre, the ground-breaking production will open in London for a strictly limited season before embarking on a UK-wide tour in 2022. Casting will be announced in due course.
As disaster threatens to destroy the world they know, two tribes are locked in an age-old battle. One young woman must make a choice: protect the traditions of her people or challenge everything she has been taught. With total devastation bearing down on them, will the two tribes reunite before it’s too late?
Vanara will once again bring together the acclaimed international creative team, with a soaring score by Gianluca Cucchiara, lyrics by Andrew James Whelan, and book by Michael Conley. Produced by Giovanna Romagnoli, the production will be co-directed by Adam Lenson and Eleesha Drennan, who will also take on the roles of Dramaturg and Choreographer, respectively.
With a prevailing message of hope and call for unity, the production resonates with the chaos of today’s society and the earth ravaged by natural disasters. This fiery phenomenon has gained cult status among fans throughout its development process. With its blend of theatre, contemporary dance, and technical innovation, Vanara is crafting a new language for musical theatre. It is an excitingly modern musical like nothing before.
Producer Giovanna Romagnoli comments, I am delighted to reunite our creative team and we are extremely excited to bring the world premiere of Vanara to London’s Hackney Empire this Autumn. We look forward to welcoming audiences to discover the thrilling world we have created. A new musical legend is waiting for you!