Indie Soul Review: Next To Normal & Isango Ensemble Magic Flute

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— Next To Normal: Next To Normal is a Pulitzer Prize winning musical that tackles the sensitive subject of mental illness. It’s playing now through November, 16 at Baltimore’s Center Stage. Director David Schweizer, did an exceptional job of bringing a difficult subject to life, with the help of exceptional actors and a great score.

The Magic Flute: On October 17 and 18 Center Stage played host to the 30-member Isango Ensemble’s reimagining of Mozart’s 1791 masterpiece through South African eyes. The original score was faithfully transposed for an on-stage orchestra of marimbas, drums, and other South African percussion instruments. Mozart’s operatic fairy tale of a love-struck prince’s quest to rescue the Queen of the Night’s daughter with the aid of a magic flute is reimagined through an African prism and set in an African township.

This was totally amazing experience. If you missed it, you missed some great music from the motherland! If it comes to your town, please make it a point to be part of this wonderful experience!

Indie Soul welcomes your questions and comments. To contact Phinesse Demps, call 410-366-3900 ext. 3016 or 410-501-0193 or email: pdemps@btimes.com. Follow him on Twitter@lfpmedia.