Don’t cry for me, Sacramento

Before the cult of Britain’s Princess Diana, there was Evita. Argentina’s “little Eva” Duarte married Gen. Juan Perón and made him a president, but always remained a woman of the people. The mythology that surrounded her—and the adulation of the crowd—made her a populist legend long before Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice created this musical with its unforgettable song. While theatergoers can expect more in the way of emotional overload than leftist politics set to catchy tunes, Evita offers something different from the typical romance of musical theater. Runaway Stage, as always, showcases the best of the area’s young talent—and brings in a few well-seasoned hands to help things along. Joshua James, long a local favorite actor in musical theater, tries hand at choreography, while Rodger McDonald directs. Evita, Runaway Stage Productions at the 24th Street Theatre, 2791 24th Street; (916) 207-1226; www.runawaystage.com. Through May 24.