Broadway Smash Hit Musical Man of La Mancha at LTCC

The Theatre Arts Department at Lake Tahoe Community College is presenting the classic Broadway musical Man of La Mancha in the Duke Theatre from June 13 through June 22. This Tony Award-winning musical, directed by Susan Boulanger, with musical direction by Mark D. Williams and choreography by Angela Smith, is presented as part of the celebration marking the 40th anniversary of LTCC.

Man of La Mancha is based on Miguel de Cervantes' epic novel, Don Quixote. The musical contains a play-within-a-play, set in Spain at the end of the 16th century. It tells the tale of the 'mad' knight, Don Quixote de La Mancha, and is performed by Cervantes and his fellow prisoners as he awaits a hearing with the Spanish Inquisition. Joined by his loyal squire, Sancho Panza, Don Quixote sets out on a noble journey to battle evil, right all wrongs, and win the heart of the Lady Dulcinea. With a humorous and poignant book, colorful characters, and glorious songs, including the timeless classic “The Impossible Dream,” Man of La Mancha is considered one of the greatest musicals of the American theatre.

Susan Boulanger, Director of Theatre at LTCC, chose Man of La Mancha specifically for the college’s 40th anniversary. “Man of La Mancha is the perfect show to celebrate the spirit and dedication that created Lake Tahoe Community College and has kept the school going all of these years,” says Boulanger. “Not only is it a wonderful musical, but it is about a man who strives for a better world against all odds. I think that is what the history of LTCC is all about.”

As a special part of the 40th anniversary celebration, the role of Don Quixote will be played by Mark D. Williams, head of the Music Department at LTCC and an accomplished vocalist and performer. Williams most recently performed the roles of Javert in Les Miserables and The Phantom in Phantom of the Opera, both at Western Nevada Musical Theatre.

To help celebrate LTCC’s 40th anniversary and to recognize the Theatre Arts Department, a reception will be held following the matinee performance on Sunday, June 15. Wine and appetizers will be served, while audience members mingle with the cast of Man of La Mancha. Performers and crew members from past productions at LTCC are encouraged to attend this special performance and reception.

Man of La Mancha was an immediate hit on Broadway, winning five Tony Awards for its creators and star, Best Musical awards from the New York Drama Critic’s Circle, the Outer Circle, The Variety Poll and the Saturday Review. It remained on Broadway for five years, beating the record runs of such other great musicals as The Sound of Music and Guys and Dolls. The show has enjoyed several revivals on Broadway, most recently in 2002 with Brian Stokes Mitchell in the starring role.

Performances are June 13, 14, 19, 20, 21 at 8 p.m., and Sunday matinees on June 15 and 22 at 2 p.m.

Tickets for Man of La Mancha are $15 general admission, $12 for seniors, groups of eight or more, students with a valid student I.D. and children under 13. Tickets may be purchased in advance at LTCC’s Bookstore Monday through Thursday, 10 a.m. to 7:30 p.m., and Friday, 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. starting June 2nd. The Duke Theatre Box Office will be open for ticket sales one hour prior to all performances.

This show contains some mature content and may not be suitable for children under 13.

For more information, call the box office at (530) 541-4660 ext. 207.