Witzend Productions and Charing Cross Theatre Productions announced the full cast for the world premiere of new musical Dark of the Moon, based on the classic 1941 play by Howard D Richardson and William Berney, playing at Charing Cross Theatre.
Dark of the Moon is a supernatural tale of powerful witchcraft, small-town prejudices and the power of love. This timeless, spellbinding new musical portrays the clash of two dynamically polarized worlds—a charming rural Appalachian town and the mystical world of witches and warlocks from the Smoky Mountains that loom high above. The show’s unique musical score reflects those conflicting worlds using a thrilling blend of country/bluegrass and rock. Barbara Allen – a human girl and John – a curious witch-boy – find each other and defy their communities to build a life together. But will love conquer all – or will they be haunted by a deal that was made by the dark of the moon?
Originally written by Howard Richardson and William Berney while students at the University of Iowa in the early 1940s, the play Dark of the Moon is loosely inspired by the traditional Scottish ballad Barbara Allen. Following its original Broadway production by the Shubert Organization, the play has been widely produced internationally and has attracted notable performers and directors including Paul Newman, George C. Scott, Cicely Tyson and James Earl Jones. Sir Peter Brook directed a London production at the Ambassador Theatre in 1949.
The story has recently re-entered the cultural conversation through references in the Stranger Things stage play The First Shadow and the final season of the hit Netflix series.
Georgie Rankcom said, “I’m so excited for this phenomenal company to take our audiences into the world of ‘Dark of the Moon’. It’s a beautiful piece that, at its heart, is about love and connection in the face of hatred and boasts a truly unforgettable score. We’re all so excited to share this story with you from 18 May.”
Charing Cross Theatre from 18th May – 8th August.
Booking and full details: https://www.charingcrosstheatre.co.uk/
