Don't Cry For Me Argentina

Evita charts the young and ambitious Eva Peron’s meteoric rise to sainthood. Set in Argentina between 1934-1952, the Tony-winning musical follows Eva Duarte on her journey from poor illegitimate child to ambitious actress to, as wife of military leader-turned-president Juan Peron, the most powerful woman in Latin America, before her death from cancer at age 33.

Evita’s memorable “Don’t Cry For Me Argentina” was recorded and released in 1976 followed by the complete rock opera concept album, which went gold. The stage production opened on June 21, 1978 at the Prince Edward Theatre in London with Elaine Paige in the title role and Joss Ackland as her formidable Juan Perón.

Following stints in Los Angeles and San Francisco, Evita premiered on Broadway at the Broadway Theatre on 25th September 1979. Evita won an impressive seven 1980 Tony Awards including Best Book, Best Score and Best Musical of the year. In 1981, the Evita cast recording was awarded a Grammy Award.

Productions of Evita have been performed all over the world, including performances in Austria, Spain, Mexico and South Africa. A major 1996 film adaptation starred Madonna in the title role and Antonio Banderas as Che. The film was nominated for five Academy Awards, winning one for Best Original Song (“You Must Love Me”).

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Eva Perón was born in Los Toldos, Argentina on 7 May 1919; she was the second wife of Argentine President, Juan Perón

Eva Perón was born on 7 May 1919 in Los Toldos, Argentina, she was the second wife of Argentine President Juan Perón, who, during her husband’s first term as president (1946–52) became a powerful but unofficial political leader, revered by the lower economic classes.

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Eva Perón was born in Los Toldos, Argentina on 7 May 1919; she was the second wife of Argentine President, Juan Perón

Eva Perón was born on 7 May 1919 in Los Toldos, Argentina, she was the second wife of Argentine President Juan Perón, who, during her husband’s first term as president (1946–52) became a powerful but unofficial political leader, revered by the lower economic classes.

1919
1919
1919
1919

Andrew and Tim Rice wrote Evita

Andrew and Tim Rice did not consciously realise this at the time but it is believed that they were inspired to write Evita because they could relate to it at the time. In 1975 the UK was a difficult and scary place, the IRA was in full force, the miners strike brought down the government, and the whole fabric of British society was falling apart.

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Andrew and Tim Rice wrote Evita

Andrew and Tim Rice did not consciously realise this at the time but it is believed that they were inspired to write Evita because they could relate to it at the time. In 1975 the UK was a difficult and scary place, the IRA was in full force, the miners strike brought down the government, and the whole fabric of British society was falling apart.

1975
1975
1975
1975

One of the most iconic and memorable songs 'Don’t Cry For Me Argentina' was originally recorded by Julie Covington

One of the most iconic and memorable songs from the original Evita album, 'Don’t Cry For Me Argentina' was originally recorded by Julie Covington and released as a single on 12 November 1976.

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One of the most iconic and memorable songs 'Don’t Cry For Me Argentina' was originally recorded by Julie Covington

One of the most iconic and memorable songs from the original Evita album, 'Don’t Cry For Me Argentina' was originally recorded by Julie Covington and released as a single on 12 November 1976.

1976
1976
1976
1976

Spotify Entry

Don't Cry for Me Argentina by Julie Covington from Unmasked

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Spotify Entry

Don't Cry for Me Argentina by Julie Covington from Unmasked

1976
1976
1976
1976

Evita was originally written as a concept album that went platinum

Evita was originally written as a concept album, which was released on 19 November 1976 on vinyl record. The album reached over 300,000 sales in the UK, which meant that it was certified as 'Platinum' by the British Recorded Music Industry (BPI).

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Evita was originally written as a concept album that went platinum

Evita was originally written as a concept album, which was released on 19 November 1976 on vinyl record. The album reached over 300,000 sales in the UK, which meant that it was certified as 'Platinum' by the British Recorded Music Industry (BPI).

1976
1976
1976
1976

The original London production of Evita opened at the Prince Edward Theatre

The world premiere and original London production of Evita opened at the Prince Edward Theatre on 21 June, 1978. Elaine Paige took the title role, with Joss Ackland as her formidable Juan Perón, and David Essex as Che.

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The original London production of Evita opened at the Prince Edward Theatre

The world premiere and original London production of Evita opened at the Prince Edward Theatre on 21 June, 1978. Elaine Paige took the title role, with Joss Ackland as her formidable Juan Perón, and David Essex as Che.

1978
1978
1978
1978

The London production of Evita was nominated for four Olivier Awards

In late 1978, the London production of Evita starring Elaine Paige received four nominations at the Laurence Olivier Awards. Andrew won the award for 'Musical of the Year', and Elaine Paige won the award for 'Performance of the Year in a Musical'.

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The London production of Evita was nominated for four Olivier Awards

In late 1978, the London production of Evita starring Elaine Paige received four nominations at the Laurence Olivier Awards. Andrew won the award for 'Musical of the Year', and Elaine Paige won the award for 'Performance of the Year in a Musical'.

1978
1978
1978
1978

Evita premiered in the US on Broadway at the Broadway Theatre

Following stints in Los Angeles and San Francisco, Evita premiered in the US on Broadway at the Broadway Theatre on 25 September 1979. The Broadway production starred Patti LuPone as Eva, Mandy Patinkin as Che, and Bob Gunton as Juan.

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Evita premiered in the US on Broadway at the Broadway Theatre

Following stints in Los Angeles and San Francisco, Evita premiered in the US on Broadway at the Broadway Theatre on 25 September 1979. The Broadway production starred Patti LuPone as Eva, Mandy Patinkin as Che, and Bob Gunton as Juan.

1979
1979
1979
1979

The original Broadway production of Evita won an impressive seven Tony Awards

On 8 June 1980, the original Broadway production of Evita won an impressive seven awards at the 34th annual Tony Awards including 'Best Musical', 'Best Book of Musical', 'Best Performance by a Leading Actress in a Musical', 'Best Performance by a Featured Actor in a Musical', 'Best Original Score', 'Best Direction of a Musical', and 'Best Lighting Design'. It was also nominated for four other awards that year.

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The original Broadway production of Evita won an impressive seven Tony Awards

On 8 June 1980, the original Broadway production of Evita won an impressive seven awards at the 34th annual Tony Awards including 'Best Musical', 'Best Book of Musical', 'Best Performance by a Leading Actress in a Musical', 'Best Performance by a Featured Actor in a Musical', 'Best Original Score', 'Best Direction of a Musical', and 'Best Lighting Design'. It was also nominated for four other awards that year.

1980
1980
1980
1980

The original Broadway production of Evita won 6 Drama Desk Awards

In 1980, the original Broadway production of Evita was nominated for 10 Drama Desk Awards and won 6, including 'Outstanding Musical', Tim Rice for 'Outstanding Lyrics', Andrew for 'Outstanding Music', Patti LuPone for 'Outstanding Actress in a Musical', Bob Gunton for 'Outstanding Featured Actor in a Musical', and Harold Prince for 'Outstanding Director of a Musical'.

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The original Broadway production of Evita won 6 Drama Desk Awards

In 1980, the original Broadway production of Evita was nominated for 10 Drama Desk Awards and won 6, including 'Outstanding Musical', Tim Rice for 'Outstanding Lyrics', Andrew for 'Outstanding Music', Patti LuPone for 'Outstanding Actress in a Musical', Bob Gunton for 'Outstanding Featured Actor in a Musical', and Harold Prince for 'Outstanding Director of a Musical'.

1980
1980
1980
1980

Evita won the 'Best Cast Show Album' award for the Premiere American Recording at the 23rd annual Grammy Awards

Following the opening on Broadway, Evita won the 'Best Cast Show Album' award for the American Premiere Album at the 23rd annual Grammy Awards on 25 February 1981.

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Evita won the 'Best Cast Show Album' award for the Premiere American Recording at the 23rd annual Grammy Awards

Following the opening on Broadway, Evita won the 'Best Cast Show Album' award for the American Premiere Album at the 23rd annual Grammy Awards on 25 February 1981.

1981
1981
1981
1981

The original Japanese production of Evita opened at the Nissay Theatre

In 1982, Evita opened at the Nissay Theatre in Tokyo and was produced by Shiki Theatre Company, and continues to be one of Shiki's signature musicals. Later that same year, a cast album was released starring Masachika Ichimura, Akiko Kuno, and Akihiko Mitsueda.

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The original Japanese production of Evita opened at the Nissay Theatre

In 1982, Evita opened at the Nissay Theatre in Tokyo and was produced by Shiki Theatre Company, and continues to be one of Shiki's signature musicals. Later that same year, a cast album was released starring Masachika Ichimura, Akiko Kuno, and Akihiko Mitsueda.

1982
1982
1982
1982

The major film adaptation of Evita premiered in Los Angeles, California

The major film adaptation of Evita that starred Madonna in the title role, and Antonio Banderas as Che, had its premiere in Los Angeles on 14 December 1996. It was later released in the UK on 3 January 1997.

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The major film adaptation of Evita premiered in Los Angeles, California

The major film adaptation of Evita that starred Madonna in the title role, and Antonio Banderas as Che, had its premiere in Los Angeles on 14 December 1996. It was later released in the UK on 3 January 1997.

1996
1996
1996
1996

Youtube Link

Oh What a Circus from Andrew's 50th Celebration at the Royal Albert Hall (1998)

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Youtube Link

Oh What a Circus from Andrew's 50th Celebration at the Royal Albert Hall (1998)

1996
1996
1996
1996

Andrew won the Academy Award for 'Best Original Song' with the song 'You Must Love Me'

The Evita film adaptation was nominated for 5 Academy Awards at the 69th annual ceremony on 24 March 1997. Andrew won the award for 'Best Original Song' with the song 'You Must Love Me', which has been covered by many different artists over the years including Lana Del Ray, which was released on the compilation album 'Unmasked: The Platinum Collection'.

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Andrew won the Academy Award for 'Best Original Song' with the song 'You Must Love Me'

The Evita film adaptation was nominated for 5 Academy Awards at the 69th annual ceremony on 24 March 1997. Andrew won the award for 'Best Original Song' with the song 'You Must Love Me', which has been covered by many different artists over the years including Lana Del Ray, which was released on the compilation album 'Unmasked: The Platinum Collection'.

1997
1997
1997
1997

Spotify Entry

You Must Love Me by Lana Del Ray from Unmasked: The Platinum Collection (2018)

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Spotify Entry

You Must Love Me by Lana Del Ray from Unmasked: The Platinum Collection (2018)

1997
1997
1997
1997

The London revival of Evita opened at the Adelphi Theatre with Argentinean actress Elena Roger as Eva

The West End revival of Evita returned to London after 28 years to the day and opened at the Adelphi Theatre on 21 June 2006, with Argentinean actress Elena Roger as Eva. After 389 performances the production closed on 26 May 2007. It was nominated for a number of awards, including Elena Roger for 'Best Actress In A Musical' at the 2006 Olivier Awards.

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The London revival of Evita opened at the Adelphi Theatre with Argentinean actress Elena Roger as Eva

The West End revival of Evita returned to London after 28 years to the day and opened at the Adelphi Theatre on 21 June 2006, with Argentinean actress Elena Roger as Eva. After 389 performances the production closed on 26 May 2007. It was nominated for a number of awards, including Elena Roger for 'Best Actress In A Musical' at the 2006 Olivier Awards.

2006
2006
2006
2006

The London production of Evita starring Elena Roger transferred to Broadway

The London production of Evita transferred to Broadway and opened at the Marquis Theatre 5 April 2012; Elena Roger reprised her role as Eva Perón and Ricky Martin joined the cast as Che.

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The London production of Evita starring Elena Roger transferred to Broadway

The London production of Evita transferred to Broadway and opened at the Marquis Theatre 5 April 2012; Elena Roger reprised her role as Eva Perón and Ricky Martin joined the cast as Che.

2012
2012
2012
2012

Evita opened at Regent's Park Open Air Theatre in London, directed by Jamie Lloyd

On 22 August 2019, Evita opened at Regent's Park Open Air Theatre in London. Directed by Jamie Lloyd, the production opened on a limited run and closed on 30 September 2019.

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Evita opened at Regent's Park Open Air Theatre in London, directed by Jamie Lloyd

On 22 August 2019, Evita opened at Regent's Park Open Air Theatre in London. Directed by Jamie Lloyd, the production opened on a limited run and closed on 30 September 2019.

2019
2019
2019
2019

Andrew's Symphonic Suites album, featuring orchestral arrangements of suites from Phantom, Evita, and Sunset Boulevard was released

On 29 October 2021, Andrew released the Symphonic Suites album, featuring orchestral arrangements of suites from The Phantom of the Opera, Evita, and Sunset Boulevard. It was recorded at the newly refurbished Theatre Royal Drury Lane in London and showcases the cinematic quality of his compositions and emphasizes their orchestral elements.

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Andrew's Symphonic Suites album, featuring orchestral arrangements of suites from Phantom, Evita, and Sunset Boulevard was released

On 29 October 2021, Andrew released the Symphonic Suites album, featuring orchestral arrangements of suites from The Phantom of the Opera, Evita, and Sunset Boulevard. It was recorded at the newly refurbished Theatre Royal Drury Lane in London and showcases the cinematic quality of his compositions and emphasizes their orchestral elements.

2021
2021
2021
2021

Youtube Link

Evita from Symphonic Suites (2021)

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Youtube Link

Evita from Symphonic Suites (2021)

2021
2021
2021
2021

A concert version of Evita opened at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane in London

On 31 July 2023, a special concert version of Evita opened at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane in London for three performances only. The production starred Auliʻi Cravalho as Eva Peron and Matt Rawle as Che.

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A concert version of Evita opened at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane in London

On 31 July 2023, a special concert version of Evita opened at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane in London for three performances only. The production starred Auliʻi Cravalho as Eva Peron and Matt Rawle as Che.

2023
2023
2023
2023
Music
Andrew Lloyd Webber
Lyrics
Tim Rice
Based on
Tim Rice
Original Direction
Harold Prince
Original Choreography
Larry Fuller
Opened
21 June 1978 at the Prince Edward Theatre in London

Interested in staging your very own production of Evita with your school or group? We can’t wait to hear about it! Please remember, though, that applications to licence the show are subject to review and availability, and will differ based on various elements.

Visit the ALW Show Licensing website to find out more.

ALW Show Licensing
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