IU Jacobs School presents workshop performance of new musical by Timothy Noble
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 18, 2012
BLOOMINGTON, Ind. - Timothy Noble, distinguished professor of voice at the Indiana University Jacobs School of Music, is not only remembering the Alamo, he's setting its famous story to music.
Distinguished Professor Timothy Noble (left) with singers Rachel Milligan and Gabe Helton (right).
"Alamo" is a new musical featuring music and lyrics by Noble, a book by New York City-playwright Eric Holmes and musical arrangements by conductor Constantine Kitsopoulos. The work will receive its first public reading on Saturday, June 2, at 8 p.m. in Auer Hall. The free event will include narration throughout.
The events leading up to, during and following the 13-day siege that occurred at the former Texas mission in 1836, are told by Susannah Dickinson, one of two Anglo/Texian survivors of the battle. Most of the characters in the show were at the Alamo during this historic time, including Susannah and Almeron Dickinson, James Bowie, David Crockett, William Travis, Anna Esparza, Gregorio Esparza, Santa Anna, Colonel Juan Almonte, Jacob Walker and more.
Jacobs alumna Rachel Milligan will sing the role of Susannah, and student Gabe Helton will sing the role of Almeron.
According to Noble, the musical is not really about the siege and massacre, but rather about universal themes that continue to be relevant today, such as undying love, truth versus myth, racism, heroism and the American Dream.
"I am personally thrilled that after some 20 years, the dream of writing and finishing this musical is finally coming to fruition," said Noble. "But it would not have seen the light of day were it not for my wife, Donna, my children and Eric Holmes, who pushed, prodded and cajoled in order for me to finish. I would like to thank the approximately 25 participants, most of whom come from the Jacobs School and are doing this for nothing other than curiosity and love of music. And, most especially, I would like to thank Gwyn Richards and Jacobs for their support in making all of this happen."
