Man of La Mancha

Dale Wasserman & Mitch Leigh‘s
Man of La Mancha

The Pyrle
Greensboro, NC

May 2019

Directed by Preston Lane
Music Direction by Justin P. Cowan
Choreography by Denise Gabriel
Scenic Design by Josafath Reynoso
Costume Design by April Soroko
Lighting Design by Rob Perry
Sound Design by Christopher Ross-Ewart 
Stage Manager: Janine Wochna

Produced by Triad Stage

Photo Credit: Josafath Reynoso

“Man of La Mancha” is a musical based on the 1965 novel “Don Quixote” by Miguel de Cervantes. The musical features a book by Dale Wasserman, music by Mitch Leigh, and lyrics by Joe Darion. The narrative is framed within the setting of the Spanish Inquisition, where the author Cervantes is imprisoned. To defend himself against the other prisoners, Cervantes transforms himself into the character of Alonso Quijano, who believes he is the valiant and noble Don Quixote.

As Don Quixote, he sets out on a quest to revive chivalry and bring justice to the world, accompanied by his loyal squire, Sancho Panza. The story is a blend of reality and Quixote’s delusional perceptions as he encounters windmills, which he believes are ferocious giants, and engages in various adventures. Along the way, Don Quixote meets a tavern wench named Aldonza, whom he idealizes as his lady love, Dulcinea.

“Man of La Mancha” explores themes of idealism, imagination, and the power of storytelling. The musical features memorable songs like “The Impossible Dream,” which has become a classic. The juxtaposition of Cervantes’ harsh reality in prison with the imaginative and idealistic world of Don Quixote creates a poignant and inspiring tale about the human spirit’s capacity for hope and resilience.