Rachmaninoff and the Tsar: A New Musical Play

Step into the extraordinary world of Rachmaninoff and the Tsar, a mesmerizing theatrical journey that intertwines music, history, and memory. This poignant play breathes life into the legendary pianist-composer Sergei Rachmaninoff (Hershey Felder) as he navigates the twilight of his life in 1940s Beverly Hills. Haunted by memories of his homeland and a fateful encounter with Russia’s last Tsar, Nicholas II, (Jonathan Silvestri) and the Grand Duchess Anastasia, Rachmaninoff’s story explores themes of exile, identity and legacy. Featuring Rachmaninoff’s most iconic compositions—his C# minor Prelude, the Second Piano Concerto and the Paganini Variations—this production is both a tribute to his genius and a meditation on the enduring bond between an artist and his homeland.

Conceived by theatre and film artist and pianist Hershey Felder, Rachmaninoff and the Tsar is a masterwork of storytelling and music. Felder, renowned for his one-of-a-kind performances, portrays Rachmaninoff with unparalleled depth and virtuosity, earning rave reviews for his “Heartbreaking masterful performance” (San Diego Union Tribune) and “astonishing piano prowess” (HoustonPress). With visually stunning design, evocative projections and a world-class creative team, the play has captivated audiences from its world premiere at The Broad Stage to its acclaimed run at the Balboa Theatre and its recent record breaking run a Theatreworks Silicon Valley, breaking the 54-year box office record previously held by Felder for his Beethoven. Don’t miss this unforgettable theatrical experience that celebrates the life and music of one of history’s greatest composers.

Rachmaninoff and the Tsar features the music of Sergei V. Rachmaninoff with a book by Hershey Felder. The production is directed by Trevor Hay. Dramaturgy by Jerry Patch. Concept design is by Hershey Felder. Lighting is by Erik S. Barry, sound and production management is by Erik Carstensen, sound operation by Jeremy Kalke, projections are by Stefano Decarli, costumes are by Marysol Gabriel and wigs are by Judi Lewin.

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