Synopsis

A historical musical where the audience knows the inevitable cataclysmic ending before the curtain even rises! AD 79 is the story of the lives and loves, dreams and schemes of the citizens of Roman Pompeii just prior to the earth shattering events that would leave the town forever frozen in time.

Set in the days leading up to the fateful eruption of Mount Vesuvius, we follow the dealings of Benitus, a slippery politician with his eye on the senate, his wife Valeria, a self-important bully, and his secretary Herculus, a man with a hidden agenda. We meet a young slave couple on the verge of their freedom, and the kindly family of Claudius, a successful local merchant.

We also follow the daily intrigue around the town’s markets and olive bar, where many of the town’s citizens meet up, including the enigmatic ex-soldier Octavius, who is suspiciously interested in Benitus (and his fortune), and Julia, a pregnant girl with a secret. Thrown into this mix are a pair of smart dogs and a sinister, shadowy figure - Death. He appears at the appropriate moment, to 'collect' those whose time has come.

And, come August 24th, all are caught up in the terrifying events that would leave the town of Pompeii buried under ashes for the next 1500 years.

This musical has a fresh, innovative feel to it, and is ideal for teenage or adult actors alike. With twelve super songs and plenty of chorus work, AD79 has been performed to great effect and acclaim.

Characters

Songs