THE BIRTH OF A MUSICAL
Montrealers both since the early 80's, composer Peter Sipos and bookwriter/lyricist Vincent de Tourdonnet began work on "Jeanne la Pucelle" in 1993. For the first year of their collaboration, they presented material for critical feedback at the BMI Musical Theatre Writers Workshop in New York City. In the summer of 1994, with only about 30% of a first draft completed, Montreal producer Allan Sandler heard the material and fell in love with the project, offering a Broadway option on the developing musical and a trial production 7 months later at the Saidye Bronfman Centre. Under this imposing deadline, the writers got busy.
Working session in December 1994
(left to right) Vincent de Tourdonnet, Roger Peace, Peter Sipos, Allan Sandler.
Allan's partner Roger Peace directed at the Saidye, with de Tourdonnet assisting. Despite all odds, by springtime the results were spectacular, standing ovations at every performance and rave reviews from all parts. The "Born in Québec" mega-musical "Jeanne la Pucelle", written and composed by Québecers, produced by Québecers, performed by Québecers had started its Broadway bound journey.
Logo of the 1995 JEANNE Production
Now, the project has taken on an entirely new momentum. Broadway director Martin Charnin came on board in December 1995, and has been working closely with the authors to re-shape and sculpture the show. His expert eye has been remarkably useful in helping to mould the piece for the international stage.
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