By Adam Hetrick
06 Nov 2009

Northwestern University will present Leonard Bernstein's Mass, featuring new lyrics by Tony-nominated composer Stephen Schwartz, beginning Nov. 12.

Schwartz (Godspell, Wicked, Pippin) and Paul Simon penned lyrics for Bernstein's 1971 work that is an amalgam of contemporary text and Latin liturgical passages. With the blessing of Bernstein's daughter, lyricist Jamie Bernstein, the Northwestern presentation will include new lyrics by Schwartz. Schwartz will also be in attendance for one of the performances of Mass.

Jeff Award winner Dominic Missimi will direct the presentations that run through Nov. 15 in the Cahn Auditorium. Ryan T. Nelson will musical direct with choreography by Jeffrey Hancock.

The cast will feature Northwestern senior Andrew Howard singing the role of the Celebrant for four performances, while senior Seth Dhonau will sing the role for the Saturday matinee. Mass will also feature members of the Northwestern Music Theatre Certificate Program, students from the Bienen School of Music, the Red Rose Children’s Choir of Lake County and boy soprano Henry Griffin.

Mass will have set design by Scott Davis and Sarah Watkins, costume design by Mekey Guberinic and lighting design by Mike Stanfill. Northwestern theatre faculty member Josh Horvath will provide sound design.

Tickets, priced $25, are available by phoning (847) 491-7282 or by visiting Tic.Northwestern.edu.