This now-legendary musical began as a concept record album, later became a Tony-winning stage hit on Broadway in 1979 and then a film starring Madonna. It's now receiving its first full-scale revival in more than 30 years (this production, which originated in London, closed on Broadway in January). The show tells the grim Cinderella story of Eva Peron (Caroline Bowman) and her spectacular rise from tango dancer in a rural Argentine cantina to ambitious social climber who slept her way to the top, married dictator Juan Peron and became first lady of the land, regarded as a near-saint by the Argentine people. But don't expect nuanced political history: The approach is metaphorical (in part through director Michael Grandage's stunning visual images) and generalized rather than specific. The show's appeal lies elsewhere. Andrew Lloyd Webber's passionately melodic score, Tim Rice's lyrics and the athletic and aggressive choreography by Rob Ashford provide a stirring spectacle, enhanced by Christopher Bram's costumes and grandiosely architectural set. There are impressive performances by Bowman, Josh Young as Che, Sean McLaughlin as Juan Peron, Krystina Alabado as Peron's discarded mistress and Christopher Johnstone as Eva's feckless first husband. It's an enthralling but curiously remote, impersonal theatrical experience. Pantages Theatre, 6233 Hollywood Blvd., Hlywd.; Tues.-Fri., 8 p.m.; Sat., 2 & 8 p.m.; Sun., 1 & 6:30 p.m.; through Nov. 10. (800) 982-2787, ticketmaster.com.

Wed., Oct. 23, 8 p.m.; Thu., Oct. 24, 8 p.m.; Fri., Oct. 25, 8 p.m.; Sat., Oct. 26, 2 & 8 p.m.; Sun., Oct. 27, 1 & 6:30 p.m.; Tue., Oct. 29, 8 p.m.; Wed., Oct. 30, 8 p.m.; Thu., Oct. 31, 8 p.m.; Fri., Nov. 1, 8 p.m.; Sat., Nov. 2, 2 & 8 p.m.; Sun., Nov. 3, 1 & 6:30 p.m.; Tue., Nov. 5, 8 p.m.; Wed., Nov. 6, 8 p.m.; Thu., Nov. 7, 8 p.m.; Fri., Nov. 8, 8 p.m.; Sat., Nov. 9, 2 & 8 p.m.; Sun., Nov. 10, 1 & 6:30 p.m., 2013

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