News: Star-studded cast announced for new musical Vanara

Full cast has been announced for new musical Vanara – The Legend, which has its premiere from 22 to 31 October at the Hackney Empire.

West End and international talent featured in the show includes Matthew Croke (Aladdin), Glenn Carter (Evita), Johnnie Fiori (The Sunshine Boys), Carole Stennett (Death of a Salesman), Cavin Cornwall (Jesus Christ Superstar) and rising star Emily Bautista (Les Misérables), in her London debut. Further cast includes Samantha Mercer (Les Misérables), Kayleigh McKnight (Tina – The Tina Turner Musical), Joaquin Pedro Valdes (Heathers) and Shem Omari James (The Music
of Andrew Lloyd Webber).

The production plays for a strictly limited London season before embarking on a UK tour in 2022.

After acclaimed workshop performances and a concept album, the ground-breaking production Vanara is directed by Adam Lenson and Eleesha Drennan, who also serve as dramaturg and choreographer respectively.

Creatives include a score by Gianluca Cucchiara, lyrics by Andrew James Whelan, book by Michael Conley, conceived by Tony Cucchiara and produced and developed by Giovanna Romagnoli.

Further creatives include set and costume design by Libby Todd, with orchestrations by Jen Green, musical direction by Tamara Saringer and casting by Harry Blumenau.

Ensemble cast members include Jemima Brown, Chris George, Yuki Abe, Olivia Jones, Ella Martine, HIcaro Nicolai, Prem Rai and Ebby Sama.

Vanara – The Legend carries a prevailing message of hope and call for unity, resonating with the chaos of today’s society and the earth ravaged by natural disasters. With a unique blend of theatre, contemporary dance, and technical innovation, this is completely revolutionised musical theatre.

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