Immersive Broadway Musical ‘Here Lies Love’ Brings Imelda Marcos’ Fascinating Story to Life
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#davidbyrne&fatboyslimDavid Byrne and Fat Boy Slim’s musical “Here Lies Love” is currently playing on Broadway in New York. The show is based on the duo’s album of the same name, which was released in 2010 and featured guest vocalists such as Florence + The Machine’s Florence Welch, Santigold, and Tori Amos. The musical tells the true story of Imelda Marcos, the wife of dictator Ferdinand Marcos and the country’s “first lady” from 1965 to 1986.
The production features an all-Filipino cast and utilizes a quickly shifting immersive stage design. Stagehands in pink jumpsuits direct the crowd as the catwalk takes on different configurations during the show. State-of-the-art sound technology from French company L-Acoustics adds to the immersive experience, with over 220 speakers conveying the emotions, drama, and rock-pop theatrics of the story.
The Broadway Theatre, transformed into a retro club for the musical, has removed all 900 of its seats to create a standing-room-only nightclub atmosphere. The setting pays homage to Studio 54, where Marcos often partied with celebrities and even danced with Andy Warhol. The sound throughout the show is crystal clear, thanks to the L-ISA immersive sound system.
“Here Lies Love” has had success off-Broadway and at various other venues, including the Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art, New York’s Public Theater, London’s National Theater, and the Seattle Repertory Theater. The lyrics of the songs written by David Byrne are constructed from actual quotes from Imelda Marcos, including the title of the album and the musical.
Nonesuch Records recently announced the first vinyl release of “Here Lies Love,” which will include newly written liner notes, Byrne’s illustrations of the story, and archival photos. Byrne explained that he was drawn to the project to explore what drives a powerful person and how they make and remake themselves. He also wanted to create a theatrical experience within a disco setting.
“Here Lies Love” offers a unique and immersive musical experience that combines storytelling, history, and powerful music. With its all-Filipino cast, shifting stage design, and state-of-the-art sound technology, the show brings Imelda Marcos’ story to life in a compelling and engaging way.
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