By Jason W. Brooks
Mail | X: @JasonWBrooks2

The producers of North: The Musical have announced the cast for the musical, which is set amid the backdrop of the underground railroad.

The musical, which premiered last season exclusively for the four cities that commissioned the work, returns to Chandler Center for the Arts on Feb. 23 at 7:30 p.m. and Feb. 24 at 3 p.m. as part of its national tour.

The production features a new cast, costumes and expanded set design which will be unveiled this year.

Tickets for the performances are $22, $32, $42 and $15 for youth and are on sale at chandlercenter.org or by calling 480-782-2680.

Vocalist and director Ashli St. Armant is known for her award-winning work in children’s education and entertainment and her Audible mystery series, Viva Durant. Her band includes Jazzy Ash and the Leaping Lizards.

The cast for North features Don Cameron as Lawrence, Alyssa Holmes as Minnie and Rayevin Johnson as Althea.

North follows Lawrence and his mother, Minnie, as they escape the Deep South and travel North through the Underground Railroad to find freedom. With a route that takes them through Louisiana’s bayous, the bustling city of New Orleans, and the young town of Lawrence, Kansas, St. Armant’s fresh and original music reflects the optimism, bravery, wonder, and suspense of freedom seekers.

The musical genres in North are equal parts jazz, musical theatre, and St. Armant’s own signature style.

The musical draws on an array of musical heroes, including Nat King Cole, Mahalia Jackson, Fela Kuti and Stephen Sondheim. Songs include “Never,” “Git On Board,”“Oh What These Trees Have Seen,” “On The Run,” “Head Straight, Shoulders Back” and more.

For more information, visit norththemusical.com and chandlercenter.org.

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Jason W. Brooks
News Editor | Chandler Independent

Jason W. Brooks joined Independent Newsmedia, Inc., USA, in July 2021 as an associate editor. After a year covering Buckeye, he has covered Chandler since the fall of 2022, in addition to assisting the Daily Independent throughout his time at INI.

Education: University of New Mexico, bachelor of arts in journalism and mass communication, print emphasis, English minor.

Random Fact: He and his siblings witnessed a Space Shuttle launch and landing in the same year in person, on opposite coasts.

Hobbies: Karaoke, bicycling and American Sign Language.

Community: He supports animal shelters.