Rolling Meadows stages 'Evita' for spring musical

Rolling Meadows High School students are putting on a production of Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice's "Evita," which charts the rags-to-riches rise of the First Lady of Argentina, who won the love of her countrymen after marrying military leader-turned-president Juan Perón.

Set in Buenos Aires between 1934 and 1952, the musical follows Eva Duarte Perón on her journey from fatherless child to ambitious actress to the most powerful woman in Latin America - and, eventually, to a saint-like figure after her death from cancer at age 33.

Performances are at 6 p.m. Wednesday, April 26, and 7:30 p.m. Thursday, April 27, to Saturday, April 29. Tickets range from $5 to $10 and can be purchased at the door or online at rmhsspringmusical.brownpapertickets.com.

The events in the title character's life are presented by three actresses taking on the role of Eva Perón at different ages. The Rolling Meadows High School production also features two actors as Juan Perón and five actors taking on the show's narrator, Che.

Codirected by Kate McNally and Mary Luckritz, "Evita" is a musical about storytelling. With vocal direction by Caitlyn Walsh, pit direction by Kevin Carroll, and choreography by Reggie Good, the production is sure to entertain its audience.

Set designer and technical director Paul Fajks, lighting designer John Sanchez, and costume designer Heather Manzella have encapsulated the rags-to-riches style of Eva's life.

Rolling Meadows High School is at 2901 Central Road, Rolling Meadows.