Get Your Kicks! Original ‘Route 66’ Musical Revs Up in Montéléger
An original musical production, Route 66, is set to captivate audiences in Montéléger, France, this June. The Cathelin space will host performances on June 13, 14, and 15. Penned and directed by Denis Arrondelle, the show unveils a compelling narrative set in a sleepy Californian desert town disrupted by the arrival of a mysterious wanderer.
A Deserted town and a Mysterious Arrival
The stage is set in the fictional village of Little Nice, a place left behind after a new highway to Los Angeles was built. Dolly, a traveler with a shadowed past, arrives, played by Gillie Mc Pherson. Armed with just a guitar, she stirs up the quite lives of the remaining villagers. As Arrondelle, the play’s director and author, explains, “This is not just a road trip; it’s about encounters and transformations.”
Dolly’s arrival sparks unrest, gradually awakening buried feelings and stories within the village. The storyline, filled with twists and turns, explores themes of loneliness, love, and hope. Arrondelle hints that the musical draws inspiration from a “prequel to an 80s film,” maintaining an air of mystery around the specific source.
A Musical Comedy: 50% Theater, 50% Music
What truly sets “Route 66” apart is its music, an integral part of the storytelling. This isn’t just a play with songs; it’s a living, breathing musical experience. The folk influences are strong, thanks to collaborations with Willy Macpherson, a prominent figure in the American and Drôme folk scene. Arrondelle emphasizes, “It’s 50% theater and 50% music, with intense work on the choruses and musical staging.”
gillie Mc Pherson’s role as both advisor and musical director has been essential in bringing the production to life. “She knows her craft and has masterfully ensured that each song has its place in the story.” at 75, the singer and musician makes a memorable appearance on stage, surprising audiences with her energy and freshness.
La P’tite Compagnie de Montéléger: A Passionate Collective
This show is primarily the work of a local group, La P’tite Compagnie de Montéléger, which operates on volunteerism and active participation from all members. Arrondelle highlights the importance of everyone’s commitment: “Everyone pitches in. From building sets to publicity, we are a small team united by a passion for live performance.”
Despite the troupe’s modest size,their work is remarkable. It took over a year of preparation, with weekly rehearsals and entire days dedicated to staging the show. “The goal is to offer a quality show,” adds Arrondelle.
Performance Details
Here’s a swift look at the key details of the “Route 66” musical:
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| show Name | Route 66 |
| Dates | june 13, 14, 15 |
| Times | June 13 & 14 at 9:00 PM; June 15 at 3:00 PM |
| Location | Espace Cathelin, Montéléger |
| tickets | Adults: €14; Under 12: €7; Under 6: Free |
| Reservations | Phone: 06 71 72 96 90 |
The Enduring Appeal of Route 66
The real Route 66, also known as the “Mother Road,” symbolizes freedom, adventure, and the pioneering spirit of America.Though officially removed from the U.S. highway System in 1985, its legacy continues to inspire artists, musicians, and travelers worldwide. Revivals of interest in the iconic highway are common, bolstered by media portrayals and nostalgia for a simpler time. According to the National Historic Route 66 Federation, ongoing preservation efforts aim to maintain the historical integrity of remaining landmarks and promote tourism along the route.
Frequently Asked Questions about “Route 66”
- What is the main theme of the “Route 66” musical?
- The main theme revolves around transformation, encounters, and the impact of a stranger on a small community.
- Who is Gillie Mc Pherson and what is her role in the musical?
- Gillie Mc Pherson is a singer and musician who plays Dolly, the mysterious traveler, and also serves as the musical director.
- How can I purchase tickets for the “Route 66” performances?
- Tickets can be reserved by calling 06 71 72 96 90.
- Is the musical “Route 66” suitable for children?
- Yes, there are reduced ticket prices for children under 12, and it’s free for those under 6.
- What makes La P’tite Compagnie de Montéléger unique?
- It’s a volunteer-based local group where everyone actively participates in all aspects of the production.
What aspects of Route 66 history do you find most fascinating? Will you be attending the musical? Share your thoughts below!
