‘Novecento’ brings jazz to stage

DIANA ASHJIAN A&E EDITOR DA725@CCABRINI EDU

The American premiere of Italy’s “Novecento” is jazzing up The Lantern Theater Company’s stage in Philadelphia from now through Sunday, Feb. 26.

This fable, described as “poignant and powerful” by managing director Karyn Lyman, explores Italian jazz and friendship with the quaintness and rhythm of the 1930s.

Written by Alessandro Baricco and directed by Dugald MacArthur, “Novecento” is a fictional testimony to the life of Danny Boodmann T.D. Lemon, who spent his entire life at sea and became the greatest jazz pianist ever.

The story is told using flashbacks by solo performer Frank X, who plays Novecento’s bandmate and best friend, and elaborate spurts of piano and trumpets.

Barrico’s poetic writing style