Anyone who might enjoy an evening at the theater and resides within a reasonable distance to New Hope, Pa., should definitely set aside some time to enjoy the current production of “Evita” at Buck’s County Playhouse. Director Will Pomeranz has transferred his production of this show from Bay Street Theater in New York, which is reimagined, placing dance front and forward, with an all Latinx cast. The result is a bold, enlivened creation with a strong narrative focusing on human nature rather than politics and revolution. Infused into this design is a close look at Eva Peron’s rise to power. She was born into poverty in a small village, used prostitution to belittle men in power in order to climb the social ladder and became a radio personality to ensure her popularity. She is seen as a complicated woman, ruthless and cutthroat but kind and philanthropic, never forgetting her roots which are tucked away in her memory.

The setting is a two-story tango bar located in the basement of an old building in Buenos Aires, Argentina which transforms cleverly into several other locations throughout the city. Scenic designer Anna Louizos has captured the hidden away underground establishment with authenticity provoking and air of danger, mystery, and excitement. Mike Billings provides intriguing lighting creating appropriate shadows in obscure corners creating a sense of jeopardy, while always keeping the action in the spotlight. Costumes by Michael McDonald are authentic to the period, using earth tones for the majority of the cast, except for the endless dazzling outfits worn by Evita, including the iconic white ballgown. His costumes are also functional, working well with the powerful and energetic choreography created by Marcos Santana. The dance numbers are purposeful and enhance the meaning behind the song and music, accentuating the emotional content.

The cast is first rate and by no means taking away from the leading players, it must be said that this ensemble is magnificent and tireless, on stage for the entire two plus hour show. Gabriella Enriquez has the arduous task of creating the role of Evita Peron. The score by Andrew Lloyd Webber was composed very early in his career and although the music is remarkable it borders on being unsingable. Ms. Enriquez soars in her lower and mid-range, but at times has difficulty transitioning into her upper range. In no way does this distract from her excellent performance as she exhibits her great dance ability and connects with the full emotional spectrum of her character. Pablo Torres creates a Che that is cynical and charming, questioning every step of Evita’s rise to power. He is like a friendly cockroach, making an appearance, then scurrying into the shadows, and then you hear that recognizable sound and he appears again taunting and needling as his heroin’s nemesis. His vocals are impeccable as he sooths and calms the action like a sultry ringleader. Maria Bilbao shines as the mistress with strong and pure vocal tone. Devin Cortez provides a comical Magaldi and Eric Ulloa creates a stoic Peron.

Do yourself a favor and take advantage of some top rate talent right in your own backyard. It will be worth the trip.