First Rehearsal for The World Goes 'Round

Yesterday morning, New Rep Subscribers, donors, observers and staff gathered at the Arsenal Center for the Arts for The World Goes 'Round's first rehearsal. Viewers were greeted by the New Rep family, a warm and welcoming group of performers, designers and directors, and many laughed when invited to taste the assortment of Sara Lee desserts--an homage to Kander & Ebb's song "Sara Lee."

Though brisk in nature, the one-hour Meet & Greet served as an opportunity for both cast and viewers to better understand the direction of the musical. Director and choreographer Ilyse Robbins explained her vision to the crowd, supported by the artistic visions of set designer Erik Diaz, costume designer Deirdre McCabe Gerrard, props designer Joe Stallone, lighting designer Deb Sullivan and music director Todd C. Gordon. After the formalities had finished, it was time to jump into rehearsal--all ten hours of it! Stay tuned for more photos soon...

Ilyse Robbins, director and choreographer, explains her views on the play to the cast and observers.
l. to r. Ilyse Robbins, David Costa, Leigh Barrett, and Erik Diaz.

With a day full of singing and dancing ahead, it's good to have a coffee break!

What better way to kick off The World Goes 'Round than with a globe...

The colorful and fun set design by Erik Diaz.

Music director Todd C. Gordon helps the cast learn their songs.

"My mother bakes well, but you can't compare her, not with Sara Lee." - Kander & Ebb