'Bright Star' to run from Jan. 10-26 at Mass Arts Center

Join us at the Mass Arts Center from Jan. 10-26 as we present the Tony-nominated musical “Bright Star,” by Steve Martin and Edie Brickell.

Directed by Vincent Ratsavong, with musical direction from Derrick Lacasse, “Bright Star” was inspired by a true story and features a Tony-nominated score. It’s a story of love and redemption that takes place in the 1920s and 40s American South.

When literary editor Alice Murphy meets a young soldier just home from World War II, he awakens her longing for the child she once lost. Haunted by their unique connection, Alice sets out on a journey to understand her past and what she finds has the power to transform both of their lives. With beautiful bluegrass melodies and powerfully moving characters, the story unfolds as a rich tapestry of deep emotion.

"Edie Brickell and Steve Martin's bluegrass score reminds me of all the music I was surrounded by growing up,” said Ratsavong. “The raw melodies of the fiddle and banjo mixed with the rich vocals and toe-tapping dance songs will leave audiences in high spirits. Come celebrate with us at the Mass Arts Center. There's no better way to ring in the New Year."

The cast of Bright Star features Stefani Wood of Kingston, Ryan Boudreau of New Bedford (recently seen in MAC’s “Amelie”), Alexander Boyle of Hingham (recently seen in MAC’s “Urinetown”), Susan P. Allo of the South Shore (“Urinetown” and “Amelie”), Mike Duarte of Wareham, Tom Rimer of Foxboro, Kevin Groppe of Wellesley, Susan Picillo of Braintree, Stephanie Wallace-Light of Brockton, Tony Wallace-Light of Brockton, Kevin Hayes of South Yarmouth, Jason DiCenso of Johnston, RI, Madison Bradbury of East Bridgewater, Lindsay Cagney of Weymouth, Michael Maffeo of Stoughton, Allison Foster of Attleboro, and Aleks Donato of Norton.

Wood described her character and why people will enjoy “Bright Star.” “Alice is a brilliant and determined editor with a sharp wit and a deep, emotional story,” she said. “She’s lived through incredible challenges and carries a secret that could change everything. ‘Bright Star’ is such a moving show, about finding light in the darkest times and celebrating the power of love and forgiveness.”

Tickets are $36, $33 for seniors, and $28 for students. Thursday night shows are $28 for all seats. Shows are 7:30 p.m., except Sunday matinees at 2 p.m. For tickets and information, visit: https://bit.ly/mac25brightstar.

The show’s executive producers are Mark Finklestein and Howard Katz. And the show is being sponsored by Eames Insurance, of Mansfield (https://www.eamesinsurance.com/).

The Mass Arts Center, formerly The Mass Music & Arts Society (MMAS), has been a cultural home for artists, audiences, and aspiring performers of all ages since 1993.
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The Mass Arts Center is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit. The Mass Arts Center runs the Reservoir Stage, the Morini Gallery, and the Academy at Mass Arts, providing a wide array of artistic programs, performances, and opportunities for aspiring and experienced performers, artists, and patrons from across the region. Programs are supported with grants from the Massachusetts Cultural Council, the MCC Facilities Fund and the Local Cultural Councils of Mansfield, Attleboro, Foxborough, North Attleborough, Norton, and Sharon.