This
intimate musical portrayal of COLUMBUS, the man, brings the historical
figure out of the cardboard hero of the textbook and into living,
breathing, reality. Woven with humor and passion, the well known story
emerges along with the little known facts about the women who propelled
him along his course to success and acclaim. It begins with
Christopher’s childhood as a weaver’s son in Genoa, Italy, his
closeness with his brother, Bartholomew, and his restless aspirations
to explore his world. He meets his future wife, Felipa, and her
wealthy, influential mother, Dona Moniz. Then we follow Columbus as he
travels to the royal courts of Europe until finally finding support
from Queen Isabella of Spain. The music is modern and eclectic. Though
the melodies are simple and singable, they convey a sense of
exploration and newness. Offering to show Christopher and his brother
her husband’s voyage journals, Dona Moniz sings the evanescent ballad
"Our Own World". Meanwhile, the self-righteous school teacher
expostulates the hilarious "Everybody Knows That". And as Columbus and
Bartholomew travel from court to court, the Royal Chorus narrates with
"You Can’t Go ‘Round". Queen Isabella and her female advisors urge
Columbus to go "Beyond the Horizon". When he reaches his destination of
India (or so he thinks), the islanders and the sailors have much
different ideas as they sing "Oh, Pretty Island". In her song "The
Invisible People", Felipa wishes she were the one who could have made
the journey. The settings are all connected by the theme of the ocean
and the setting sun of the western horizon. All sets can be suggested
with an "ocean" backdrop and minimal props. We think you will agree
that this musical goes beyond being educational. It is inspirational,
thought provoking, and entertaining for all age audiences.
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