The electrifying rhythms of Washington Heights pulse through Bristol Riverside Theatre (BRT) this spring as Lin-Manuel Miranda’s groundbreaking musical, a genre-bending blend of hip-hop, salsa, merengue, and soul, In the Heights, takes the stage, said an En Route official.
The event is scheduled for March 25 to April 27 at BRT, located at 120 Radcliffe Street in Bristol. This production also marks a milestone for BRT, launching the theatre’s next chapter with its first large-scale musical in the newly renovated space. Preview performances will be on March 25 and 26 with opening night scheduled for March 27. Click here for more information, including a season production schedule,
BRT’s production is directed by the visionary Carlos Armesto, returning to BRT following his sensory-driven production Odd Man Out in 2022. This season, Armesto brings the beloved hit musical set on the vibrant streets of New York, In the Heights, to the stage. BRT Co-producers Amy and Ken Kaissar present the first large-scale production since the newly renovated space reopened.
Set over three transformative days in a tight-knit Washington Heights neighborhood, the show pulses with infectious Latin rhythms and powerful storytelling, following a community on the brink of change as they chase dreams, confront challenges, celebrate their roots, and where love, loss, and dreams collide under the sweltering summer sun. At the heart of it all is Usnavi de la Vega, played by Daniel L. Melo, the neighborhood’s beloved bodega owner who dreams of a better life while staying grounded by his love for his community
A synopsis of the play tells the story of Usnavi’s bodega being the neighborhood’s heartbeat, where the colorful residents cross paths daily. Vanessa (Sonya Hernández), Usnavi’s love interest, dreams of escaping her troubled home life to make it downtown. Meanwhile, Benny (Wesley Hodges), who works for Kevin Rosario’s (Victor Rodríguez, Jr.) car service, fights for Nina’s (Paula Gaudier) love while navigating his place as an outsider in this close knit community. Suzanna Guzman brings to life the neighborhood’s matriarch, Abuela Claudia, who embodies the community’s heart and history. The stakes rise with the summer heat, culminating in a blackout that threatens to change everything.
Since its Broadway debut at the Richard Rodgers Theatre (2008), following an Off-Broadway run at 37 Arts Theatre (2007), In the Heights has garnered critical acclaim, winning four Tony Awards in 2008, including Best Musical, Best Original Score, Best Choreography, and Best Orchestrations. The original cast album later secured a Grammy Award for Best Musical Show Album in 2009, cementing its place in the American musical canon.
In addition to the performances, BRT is hosting Latino Theatre Night on April 5, a special evening celebrating the rich cultural heritage at the core of the musical. This event will feature community engagement opportunities, pre-show festivities, and a chance to connect with the artists and fellow theatergoers. Ticket purchasers are invited to an evening celebrating Latino and Hispanic theatre makers, community, and culture. Included with an individual ticket to this show, guests will enjoy light refreshments at a pre-show social mixer and an optional post-show conversation with director Carlos Armesto, community leaders, and the cast, , said media relations representative, Summer Freeman.
Tickets for In the Heights are available at 215-785-0100, brtstage.org, or by visiting the box office at 120 Radcliffe Street between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. (excluding all holidays), Monday through Friday. Bristol Township residents are welcome to $10 tickets while supplies last courtesy of Flager & Associates, PC available with valid proof of residency required to pick up tickets on the day of the show selected, added Freeman.
BRT’s productions offer special pre- and post-show engagements, included with the ticket price, for guests to create a special night out. The March 27 Opening Night performance is followed by a reception where patrons can revel over the night’s show. BRT’s March 28 ‘Friday Festival’ features pre-show drinks courtesy of Pat Deon Beverages and Dad’s Hat, desserts by Donna’s Delicious Delights, and pasta provided by Cesare’s Ristorante. ‘Wine Down’ midweek on April 2 with pre-show wine courtesy of Innocenti Family Wines and complimentary desserts, and enjoy ‘Thirsty Thursday’ on April 10 with pre show beer and snacks courtesy of Broad Street Brewing, Dog & Bull Brew & Music House, Naked Brewing Company, and Philly Style Soft Pretzel, according to the En Route spokesperson.
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