By Gina Yarbrough
Carlsbad, CA–The New Village Arts Theater company is set to kick off its 23rd season with a lively dose of nostalgia, bringing the sounds of the 1970s to life with their production of “8-Track: The Sounds of the ‘70s.”
This marks the second full season in the newly renovated and renamed Dea Hurston New Village Arts Center, a space dedicated to showcasing diverse voices and exploring themes of belief and conviction.
“8-Track: The Sounds of the ‘70s” is a musical revue created by Rich Seeber, featuring musical arrangements by Michael Gribbin. The show, directed by New Village Arts favorite Gerilyn Brault, with musical direction by E.Y. Washington and choreography by Joy Newbegin, promises to be a fast-paced 90-minute journey through one of the most memorable decades of the 20th century. The production will run from August 24 to September 15, with preview performances scheduled from August 16 to August 23. An opening night reception will take place on August 24.
“We are proud to end the summer and start our next season with a show that is pure fun!” said founder and Executive Artistic Director Kristianne Kurner. “This talented group of actors will take you on a tour through the greatest hits of the 1970s, leaving you with a smile on your face and a dance in your heart.”
Audiences can expect a musical extravaganza featuring hits from iconic artists such as The Emotions, The Carpenters, Labelle, Barry Manilow, Marvin Gaye, The Doobie Brothers, The Bee Gees, Helen Reddy, and KC and the Sunshine Band. The production promises to be a 70s music lover’s dream, delivering a rousing, moving, and often humorous concert experience that captures the heart and soul of the era.
Gerilyn Brault, who steps into the director’s chair for this production, has a long history with New Village Arts, including performances in “Avenue Q,” “Intimate Apparel,” and “Servant of Two Masters,” as well as serving as a dialect coach for numerous other productions. She has assembled a talented team for this production, including newcomers E.Y. Washington as music director and Joy Newbegin as choreographer.
The creative team behind “8-Track” includes stage manager Nathan Waits and assistant stage manager Joseff Paz. Zach Elliot oversees set design, construction, and painting. The bright and funky costumes of the 1970s will be crafted by Janet Pitcher, with assistance from MaryKate Reeves-Hoche and Emily Sandoval. Kevane La’Marr Coleman will design the wigs, while Chris Renda will manage the stage lighting. Brault will be in charge of sound design with Marcus Rico, the theater’s Technical Manager, overseeing the sound operations.
“I’m so excited to start New Village Arts’ 23rd season; a theater that means so much to me,” said Brault. “This show is nothing but fun as we celebrate the great music of the 1970s. Our team is filled with delightful people who will ensure patrons have a wonderful time. I can’t wait to end the summer with such a fun musical revue!”
As the new season begins, NVA continues to build on its legacy of bringing dynamic, inclusive, and entertaining theater to the Carlsbad community. With “8-Track: The Sounds of the ‘70s,” audiences will be transported back for an unforgettable musical journey.
