Masquers Theater starts the spring with a contemporary musical

Razia's Shadow with its captivating storyline, dazzling visuals and energetic music, ranging from broad orchestral pieces to soft rock, is a sure must see show.

This epic tale of revenge, redemption and love is written by Seattle band Forgive Durden, and directed by Tyrell Pickett.  It tells the story of "O" The Scientist and his creations.   Opening night will be at 8pm, April 23 at Masquers Theater in Soap Lake.

Razia's Shadow is divided into two parts.  The first part focuses on Ahrima, played by Tyrell Pickett.  He is the passionate new son of "O" the Scientist played by Eric Suitter.  New to the world and eager to prove his worth, Ahrima tries to make himself stand out from the crowd.  Aided by his love interest Nidria, Nani Bosnar, he goes to extreme measures to gain his father's admiration.  Ahrima quickly comes to realize however, that the unfettered naïveté of blind ambition comes with consequences.

Following long after the effects of Ahrima's actions take hold, the second half of the story focuses on Adakias, one of Ahrima's descendants.  Shackled to the life that fate has given him, Adakias the introspective dreamer, played by Isaac Jensen, aches for a world outside the city's walls and away from the oppressive grip of his brother Pallis, portrayed by Chris Longstreet.

Adakias manages to venture past the centuries old veil of darkness even though he is haunted by his brother's threats and constantly under the scrutiny of his nanny-like bodyguard Sangara, played by Darryl Pheasant.  But the actions of his ancestors are inescapable, and he soon finds that the City of Light is not so bright after all.  However, in the midst of the world's chaos and sorrow, there is always a beacon of promise.  Deep in a foreign landscape of the past, Adakias comes to realize that "The unrelenting constancy of love and hope will rescue and restore you from any scope."

Rounding out the cast of vibrant characters are the three immortal children of "O" The Scientist.  Portraying the kind hearted, yet misguided Oracle is Stephanie Moore.  Clifford Bresee plays the stubborn and calculating Toba the Tura, and John Hussey is the shadow-clad Barayas, the vengeful son.

In addition to the cast are the muse-like Bawaba sisters: Shaina Longstreet, Jessica Hogge and Mathea Cline.  Laura Knittle is the rebellious Princess Anhura.  The chorus consists of Rachel Bresee, Savanna Korolak, Alicia Emery and Lacey Ryan.  Stephanie Moore shines as the vocal director, and Joanne Bracht as the stage manager.

Razia’s Shadow  will open on Friday, April 23 at 8pm.   Opening night special $9.

Performance dates are:  8pm Fri. and Sat. April 23-24, 30 – May 1, 7-8.   Sunday Matinees 3pm April 25, May 2, 9.  Ticket prices are $12 general admission, $10 seniors and students, and $9 opening night special.  For reservations, call the box office at 246-2611.  Visa and Mastercard are accepted.