I’m delighted by the newest musical to hit The Arena Stage in DC! Find out why you need to see Swept Away with music from The Avett Brothers.
The Arena Stage in Washington, DC, is now host to a haunting musical experience that will leave you speechless. With an intriguing plot from John Logan and music from The Avett Brothers, Swept Away is unlike anything you’ve seen before. Don’t miss your chance to experience the production for yourself before it sets sail for Broadway.
The background:
Drawing inspiration from The Avett Brothers’ album “Mignonette,” Swept Away weaves a tale based on the harrowing true story of a boat that sunk in 1884, forcing its crew into the unthinkable act of cannibalism. The juxtaposition of the band’s foot-tapping melodies with the dark subject matter creates a unique and unforgettable theatrical experience.
The cast:
The incredible talents of John Gallagher, Jr. (Spring Awakening, Newsroom), Stark Sands (American Idiot, & Juliet), Wayne Duvall (1984), and Adrian Blake Enscoe (Dickinson) lead the production. Gallagher and Sands, both Broadway legends in their own right, deliver performances that are nothing short of spectacular. Their on-stage chemistry is explosive, lending depth and authenticity to the characters they play.
The venue:
The Arena Stage, known for its intimate setting and for nurturing productions before their successful Broadway runs, is the perfect venue for Swept Away. Notably, it played a pivotal role in shaping hits like Dear Evan Hansen starring Ben Platt, and Next to Normal, starring Aaron Tveit, and it seems poised to work its magic once again with Swept Away.
The result:
The first half of Swept Away transports the audience into the excitement and camaraderie of a crew preparing for an adventurous voyage. The songs feel like sea shanties, inviting the audience to tap their feet along to the rhythm. However, it’s the second half that truly leaves an indelible mark on your soul. Stripped down to its core, the story focuses on four men in a lifeboat, lost at sea, and grappling with the unthinkable.
Swept Away is unlike anything else you’ll ever see on stage. It’s a unique and smart piece of theater that pushes boundaries, challenges conventions, and leaves you contemplating the depths of human desperation and resilience. The performances and singing are nothing short of superb, with each member of the cast delivering a masterful portrayal of their characters.
If you’re a theater lover, enjoy exceptional storytelling, or simply want to be moved by the power of live performance, Swept Away is a must-see. With its captivating storyline, unforgettable music, and stellar cast, it’s no wonder that this production is generating so much buzz. Get your tickets at ArenaStage.com today!
