Elmer Gantry

About

The 1991 La Jolla Playhouse production of Elmer Gantry relocates the story to 1933, reframing the tale within the Depression era. Directed by Des McAnuff, the staging is fast, kinetic, and technically sophisticated, highlighted by Heidi Landesman’s expansive panoramic sets and a turntable that brings buses, trains, and cars directly on stage. Visual transitions move from open plains and changing skies to a dense, urban landscape of concrete and steel. Musically, the show blends folk, country, bluegrass, jazz, blues, and gospel under Ted Sperling’s supervision, with orchestrations by Michael Gibson. The score alternates between intimate ballads and fervent revival choruses, powered by an onstage and pit ensemble. Marcia Milgrom Dodge’s choreography adds satirical bite to the show’s revivalist heat, while lighting by Chris Parry and sound by Scott Lehrer intensify the spectacle.