Cortese to rock opera it up in Taupo
An actor who has played numerous lead roles in New Zealand television and one of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s favourite actresses are taking the lead roles in a new production of a Hamilton-made rock musical coming next month.
Shane Cortese and Delia Hannah will star in a revamped version of State Highway 48.
The show is described as a rock opera that tells the story of an everyday family and their friends, navigating the hurdles of middle age.
The show be staged in Taupo on October 21 at the Great Lake Centre.
Best known for his roles in Shortland Street, Nothing Trivial, Outrageous Fortune and The Almighty Johnsons,Cortese has stepped into the central role of Dave, a man battling against looming redundancy and depression, an entity made manifest in a character known as the Black Dog, played by James Foster.
Hannah will play Dave’s wife Sharon, a suburban housewife whose character is described as fragile, lost, loving, and disenfranchised.
‘‘Delia is amazing,’’ producer and writer Chris Williams said.
‘‘She was cast by Andrew Lloyd Webber for the UK tour of Aspects of Love, and has toured Australia and Asia extensively, starring in all the big shows including Mamma Mia!, Cats, Chess, Blood Brothers and Disney’s production of Mary Poppins.’’
Williams said the show would appeal to a very broad spectrum of ages, but would particularly resonate with those approaching and experiencing mid life, regardless of whether it came with an accompanying crisis.
‘‘The show is a 21st century story that tracks the life and times of an everyday family and their friends as they navigate the treacherous road of middle age.
‘‘Changes in the family, workplace, and friendship are set against the backdrop of the recession with the black dog of depression taking the driver’s seat in Dave, the lead male’s life, taking everyone on a journey.
‘‘It’s funny, dramatic, emotional and entertaining.
‘‘A reminder about the important things in life; the dangers of not facing up to depression and a celebration of the everyday.’’
State Highway 48 features 26 original songs and tickets can be bought through Ticketek.