Halifax’s Neptune Theatre have shared their lineup for their 2018-2019 season at their annual Season Launch event hosted by Artistic Director Jeremy Webb. The announcement included a slew of highlights including Shakespeare In Love and the selection of the season’s musical finale, the Canadian premiere of The Color Purple.
“I am ecstatic to be able to finally share this season,” said Jeremy Webb. “From a celebration of maritime music to a romantic love affair involving Shakespeare to an inspirational story about triumph, this is a season of love, jam-packed with familiar titles, new Canadian plays and outstanding local work. These shows are engaging, thought-provoking, and full of laughter, joy and heartache.”
Webb will personally be directing the production of Shakespeare In Love as well as the theatre’s holiday production of Cinderella.
“Shakespeare In Love is one of my favourite movies,” he said. “It combines everything I love about theatre: comedy, Shakespeare, love… and a bit with a dog. I am especially excited because this production will have an entirely local cast.”
The theatre explain that they are particularly proud to take on the production of The Color Purple musical. Originally a novel by Alice Walker, it is perhaps best known for its film adaptation starring Whoopi Goldberg, Danny Glover and Oprah Winfrey.
“I first saw The Color Purple on Broadway 10 years ago,” said Webb.
“At the time I never would have dreamed I’d be standing on the Neptune stage announcing the Canadian premiere. Our audience is going to be the first in the country to see it.”
Summer Series
The Argyle Street Kitchen Party ~ July 3 – 29, Scotiabank Stage
Five Guys Named Moe ~ August 7 – 26, Fountain Hall
Mainstage Series
Shakespeare In Love ~ September 4 – October 7
Playing With Fire ~ October 16 – November 4
The Bridge ~ January 22 – February 10
Noises Off ~ February 26 – March 17
New Magic Valley Fun Town ~ April 4 – 21
The Color Purple ~ April 9 – June 2 (Exclusive Canadian premiere!)
Holiday Productions
Cinderella ~ November 27 – January 5
Dickens’ A Christmas Carol ~ November 28 – December 27
Studio Series
KAMP ~ October 23 – November 11
LO (Or Dear Mr. Wells) ~ February 5 – February 24
Little Thing, Big Thing ~ May 7 – 26
Bonus Features
Funk, Soul, & Rare Grooves – An Evening with The Mellotones ~ November 16 – 17
The Lear Project ~ March 22 – 24
Diva Station: In Century of Song ~ April 25 – 28
Ticket packages and season subscriptions are available now. For more information visit the Neptune Theatre online at www.NeptuneTheatre.com.