Country Music. An American Story
"An American Story"
"An American Story" is a compelling theatrical production conceptualized, written, and produced by Esterita Vanin, in collaboration with Ca' Foscari University of Venice. It first graced the stage in 2019.
This captivating show features a dynamic interplay between actors and musicians, seamlessly blending dramatic narration with live musical performances. Together, they trace the fascinating birth and evolution of Country Music, a quintessential American genre.
The Plot
At the heart of "An American Story" is Emmett, an Irish immigrant fleeing famine. His journey unfolds against the backdrop of pivotal moments in the blossoming of American musical traditions. These traditions are, in themselves, a rich tapestry woven from the multi-ethnic fusion of diverse cultures that began colonizing North America in the 17th century.
On stage, Emmett is a dual presence: he is both the central figure living his present reality and the reflective narrator of his own memories. Two distinct characters, Old Emmett and Young Emmett, perform side-by-side, their intertwined narratives creating a powerful overlay of past and present. This unique storytelling spans over 160 years, offering a profound journey through time.
Live Performance: Acting and Music
As the narrative of Emmett’s life unfolds through both spoken word and song, audiences gain a profound understanding of American music. The journey begins with migration songs, then moves through Civil War anthems that helped forge the nation's early identity. From there, we hear train songs, blending tales of progress with existential allegories, and murder ballads, which preserve forgotten crimes and stories of everyday life.
These themes, among others, alongside styles like Country Gospel, Bluegrass, Honky Tonk, Western, and various interwoven genres and nuances, form the red thread that guides Emmett's memories and narrative. They mark the significant and subtle moments his story chronicles throughout time.
"An American Story" showcases how a musical genre, born from popular and multi-ethnic origins, has evolved into a technically rich and complex style. From its genesis to the present day, this music has continually transformed and absorbed new influences, never ceasing to evolve and cross-pollinate.
A Theatrical and Musical Journey into Country's Roots
"An American Story" is more than just a show; it's the culmination of extensive historical research into the very genesis of Country music. This production aims to illuminate the rich cultural heritage behind Country music, revealing the historical context of its birth and the personal experiences of those who wrote or passed down these iconic songs. Our goal is to create a performance that sparks curiosity and encourages audiences to delve deeper into Country music's history, understand its present, and reflect on how its multi-ethnic and cultural roots resonate with universal human values.
Complementing the live performance, a publication is available. This book includes the full theatrical script along with a series of historical notes on the events, both detailed and hinted at within the show, complete with comprehensive bibliographic references.