At a Glance
- The Pasadena Playhouse will host Amadeus from Feb. 11 to Mar. 15.
- Audiences can enjoy a 10-minute Mozart mini-concert by 9- to 15-year-old performers before the curtain rises.
- Tickets start at $40.
- Why it matters: The pre-show concerts give fans a unique musical preview and highlight young talent.
The Pasadena Playhouse is adding a musical twist to its upcoming run of Amadeus. From February through March, the theater will feature 10-minute Mozart mini-concerts in the bar area, played by young musicians from the Pasadena Conservatory of Music. These performances begin about a half hour before the main show, giving patrons a taste of Mozart’s music before the curtain lifts.
Pre-Show Experience
The bar area transforms into a mini-concert hall each evening. The performers, aged 9 to 15, play short pieces that capture the spirit of Amadeus. The concerts last 10 minutes and are scheduled to start roughly thirty minutes before the main curtain time.
- Timing: 30 minutes prior to the main show
- Duration: 10 minutes
- Location: Bar area of the Pasadena Playhouse
- Performers: Youth musicians from the Pasadena Conservatory of Music
This concept is designed to enhance the theater experience. By offering a Mozart moment before the play, the venue celebrates the composer’s legacy while engaging younger audiences.
The Play
Amadeus is a stage (and cinematic) legend written by Peter Shaffer. The play dramatizes the life, music, and spirit of Amadeus Wolfgang Mozart. It has already enjoyed one extension, underscoring its popularity.
Key aspects:
- Writer: Peter Shaffer
- Subject: Mozart
- Format: Stage play with cinematic influence
- Run: Extended to a second season
The production brings together classic storytelling and modern performance, making it a must-see for theater enthusiasts.
Ticketing
Tickets for the Amadeus run begin at $40. The price includes access to the pre-show Mozart concerts. Attendees are encouraged to arrive early to fully experience the musical preview.
- Base price: $40
- Included: 10-minute Mozart mini-concert
- Recommendation: Arrive early for full experience
Ticket sales are ongoing, and the play’s popularity suggests seats may fill quickly.
Performers
The main cast features acclaimed actors:
- Jefferson Mays
- Sam Clemmett
- Lauren Worsham
These performers bring depth and energy to their roles, enhancing the overall theatrical experience.
Schedule
Below is a concise table of the play’s dates and the associated pre-show concert times.
| Date | Main Show Time | Pre-Show Concert Start |
|---|---|---|
| Feb. 11 | 7:00 PM | 6:30 PM |
| Feb. 18 | 7:00 PM | 6:30 PM |
| Feb. 25 | 7:00 PM | 6:30 PM |
| Mar. 4 | 7:00 PM | 6:30 PM |
| Mar. 11 | 7:00 PM | 6:30 PM |
| Mar. 15 | 7:00 PM | 6:30 PM |
The table reflects the most common dates for the run. Each evening follows the same schedule.
Key Takeaways
- Pasadena Playhouse offers a unique pre-show experience with Mozart mini-concerts.
- The Amadeus run runs from Feb. 11 to Mar. 15 with tickets starting at $40.
- Young performers ages 9-15 provide a fresh take on Mozart’s music.
- The play features a star-studded cast and has already seen an extension.
For those looking to enjoy a blend of classic theater and contemporary youth performance, the Amadeus run at the Pasadena Playhouse is an event not to miss.
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