Wednesday, February 29, 2012
Music @ Boston Court, Funky Punks are Back, and Brian Stokes Mitchell at The Broad
Music @ The Court will open its eclectic 2012 season with Stacy Sullivan in A Tribute to Ms. Peggy Lee, two nights only March 2 & 3 at 8pm. Peggy Lee, composer, musical icon, and compelling performer, has long been an inspiration to generations of performers and audiences.
After years of exploration and contemplation, the incandescent Stacy Sullivan has joined forces with the extraordinary Jon Weber, to create a tribute to Miss Lee that honors both her legacy, and the music she performed in fresh and unusual ways. Click Here for tickets and more information.
All of the characters are here: overly-ambitious jugglers, a family of acrobats, contortionists and even a sly ring master. This is a circus like you've never seen before! Stay for snacks and meet the cast after the show. Click Here for tickets.
With his terrific chops, stage charm, and movie-star good looks (not to mention his multiple Tonys©), Brian Stokes Mitchell is one of Broadway’s legendary leading men. In March he’ll bring his big-city talent to The Broad Stage in Santa Monica in a diverse program of his most loved tunes.
The two performances are Friday, March 9 at 7:30 pm and Sunday, March 11 at 4:00 pm. For tickets visit www.TheBroadStage.com, 310.434.3200. Parking is free.
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Labels: boston court, broad stage, geffen playhouse
Monday, February 27, 2012
DOMA Opens 2012 Season with The Who's TOMMY
Hallie Baran directs the rock opera that features a book by Pete Townshend and Des McAnuff; music and lyrics by The Who’s Pete Townshend; and additional music and lyrics by John Entwistle, Keith Moon and Sonny Boy Williamson. Musical director is Chris Raymond and Angela Todaro choreographs. Performances take place March 23 through April 15 at The MET Theatre in Los Angeles.
Jess Ford stars in the title role along with Anna Ty Bergman, Geoffrey Going, Stephanie Hayslip, Timothy Hearl, Chris Kerrigan, Lisa Margaroli, Karl Maschek, Samantha Mills, Matt O’Neill, Steven W. Nielsen, Aidan Park, Brittany Rodin, Bradley Sattler, and Tiffany A. Williams.
Eight-year-old Donovan Baise and eleven-year-old Max K. Salinger double in the role of young Tommy, while the role of young Cousin Kevin is shared by teens Andy Scott Harris and Adam Simon Krist.
Set and costume design for Tommy is by Brandy A. Jacobs; lighting designer is Cullen Pinney; and video design is by Matthew Leddy.
The MET Theatre is located at 1089 N. Oxford Ave., Los Angeles CA 90029. Secure, on-site parking is available for $5. Click Here for tickets and more information or call 323-465-0693.
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Labels: DOMA
Friday, February 24, 2012
The Spidey Project Spins Its Web Over Los Angeles
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| Ryan J. Hill as Peter Parker Photos Courtesy of Theatre Unleashed |
Theatre Unleashed is launching its 5th season with the West Coast premiere of a musical that made big waves in 2011, Justin Moran’s The Spidey Project: With Great Power Comes Great Responsibility. The original Broadway parody musical opened and closed before another highly publicized spider-musical could get off the ground…and it did it with no budget. Now Theatre Unleashed brings it to Los Angeles for a run that begins March 8 at Studio/Stage.
According to Theatre Unleashed’s managing director, Gregory Crafts, "The show is a natural fit for us. Actually, I think it was kind of fate. Last February, the show's creator, Justin Moran, put out a video on YouTube saying that he was going to write, score, cast, rehearse and produce a Spider-Man musical in thirty days with a budget of $0 and have it officially open before Turn Off the Dark did. I happened to see that video on Facebook about ten minutes after he posted it, and I reached out to Justin to offer my support."
Crafts helped spread the word about the show via his social networking sites and continued to follow its development. He was especially thrilled when they posted a video of the run on YouTube.
"I was blown away by the show's success and was amazed by the quality of the script and the music. I was also heartbroken that the show only ran one night in New York. I thought it deserved more…a lot more. So, when we started considering shows for our 2012 season, I contacted Justin and he was very open to the idea of us bringing The Spidey Project out west. The rest is history."
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| Darren T. Mangler as The Scorpion manhandles Ryan J. Hill as Spider-Man |
Crafts says The Spidey Project is a show that anyone can enjoy and appreciate. "It's faithful to the Spider-Man origin story, and hardcore Spider-fans will find all kinds of fun references and homages to the comic, yet it's accessible even to people who have never read a Spider-Man comic book. Also, I've gotten a lot of questions about whether the show is family-friendly or not. I would say it is, with the caveat that there is some profanity in it. If parents are okay with their kids seeing a show with a couple of swear words, I think they will absolutely love it and have a great time."
One of the fun twists about the musical is that it will feature a new Dr. Spiderman (pronounced ("spiddermin") every night. Crafts adds that the company has invited a variety of "name" talent to step into the role for a night. "It's a non-singing cameo with only one page of dialogue, but there's a lot of opportunity to do some really fun character work. It's the kind of role that a good actor can jump into, have a great time, and potentially steal the show.
We've got some really talented folks lined up, including Justin Moran, the creator of The Spidey Project, who will be joining us from New York for a night at the end of March. He played the role during the show's one-night run in New York, and we're all excited to have him join us. Another one of our surprise actors is the lead of an upcoming series on Showtime. We still have a few nights to fill but the character is drawing a lot of interest from Hollywood actors. It’s the first time we've ever done anything like this and it's really exciting!"
You can check out a sneak preview of songs from the show at Meltdown Comics on Sunset Boulevard this Saturday February 25 at 8pm. The variety show is a night of stand-up comedy, improv, and illusion, and will include portions of The Spidey Project prior to its opening on March 8.
TU is creating a number of additional opportunities as part of The Spidey Project experience. One of them is their partnership with Children's Hospital Los Angeles for a book drive to benefit their Literally Healing program. Crafts says, "CHLA has given us a wish list of titles and we've provided a list of locally owned children's bookstores on our blog that carries those books. Anyone that brings a NEW copy of one of the titles on their list to our box office can name their ticket price to see The Spidey Project at the door. We recommend that anyone who wants to contribute to the book drive reserve their seats in advance by calling our box office line at (818) 849-4039."
They are also collecting fan-made tributes to Spider-Man to display in the lobby of the theatre. "We're calling this effort the Spidey (Lobby) Project," he laughs. "We've had a lot of great drawings come in, mostly from kids, and we've collected a bunch of Spidey Haikus from our Facebook fans. Anyone interested in contributing can find all of the details about the Lobby Project on our blog. We want this to be a display of heartfelt tributes to one of the most iconic and beloved comic book characters of all time, created by fans for fans. Just like the show itself."
They’re even reaching out to the organizers at Comic Con International about an appearance/performance at WonderCon in Anaheim in March and San Diego Comic Con in July. Luckily Crafts is a man who knows how to dream big. "I know it seems like we're reaching out pretty far in a lot of different directions but this show represents a huge opportunity for us. A year ago, I was dreaming we'd get the West Coast premiere of a show that hadn't even been written yet and now it's happening. I love working with the folks at Theatre Unleashed because no idea is too 'out there.' This group is all about thinking big, trying the impossible, and making dreams come true. That's why I love them."
The Spidey Project is quickly becoming the hottest ticket in town, with several of the early dates already sold out. You can get more information on Theatre Unleashed’s website at http://www.theatreunleashed.com/.
The Spidey Project, March 8-April 14, 2012, Thursdays-Saturdays at 8pm. Studio/Stage, 520 N. Western Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90004. Additional dates may be added.
Cast: Ryan J. Hill (Peter Parker), Krista Taylor (Gwen Stacy), Ben Atkinson (J. Jonah Jamison), Justin Baker (Kent Holbrook), Kyle Cooper( Flash), Gregory Crafts (Dr. Spiderman), Melissa Jobe (Aunt May), Darren T. Mangler (Uncle Ben), Lauren Turner (Betty), Jude Evans and Heather Lake (Swings)
Production Team: david chrzanowski (director & fight choreographer), Joanna Mercedes (choreographer), Jordan Ostrowski (music director), Katie Sikkema (scenic and costume designer), Michelle Stann (lighting designer), Corwin Evans (video/projection designer), Erin Scott (stage manager)
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Labels: spidey project, theatre unleashed
Thursday, February 23, 2012
ArtsPowers Brings Are You My Mother? to La Mirada Theatre
La Mirada Theatre for the Performing Arts continues its Programs for Young Audiences series with ArtsPower’s national tour of Are You My Mother?, an enchanting musical about Baby Bird’s courageous adventure. This 55-minute, original musical based on P.D. Eastman’s endearing children’s classic is recommended for audiences ages 4 and up. Performances are Sunday, March 25, 2012 at 1:00 p.m. and 3:30 p.m.
ArtsPower’s musical begins when Baby Bird hatches from her egg only to find an empty nest. Unaware that her mother has left to find food, Baby Bird decides to leave the nest to look for her; along the way, she meets an array of colorful characters who help and advise her. Persistent Baby Bird is determined to find her mother no matter what.
Are You My Mother? features a rich, upbeat musical score and imaginative sets. Greg Gunning, ArtsPower’s artistic director, adapted and directed the show and wrote the lyrics. Richard DeRosa wrote and orchestrated the musical score. Mark and Gary Blackman founded ArtsPower in 1985 and have grown it into one of America’s largest and most active producers of professional theatre for young and family audiences.
Tickets for the performances are available on line at http://www.lamiradatheatre.com/and are $8 for children, $12 for adults. Or you can call the box office at (562) 944-9801 or (714) 994-6310. La Mirada Theatre, is located at14900 La Mirada Boulevard, La Mirada, CA.
For more about the show you can also visit http://www.artspower.org/.
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Labels: la mirada theatre
Morgan-Wixson Announces Cast of Sweeney Todd
Rachelle, whose previous directorial credits with Morgan-Wixson Theatre include Urinetown and The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, brings a dark re-imagining of the tale for her 21st Century audience. Set in the 18th Century, Sweeney Todd is the tale of a man determined to seek vengeance and is based on London’s urban legend with several stage adaptations dating as far back as 1847.
John McCool Bowers stars as Sweeney, with AnnaLisa Erickson as Mrs. Lovett. Natasha Harris is Johanna, Vincent Perez is Anthony, and Michael Heimos is Turpin. The cast also includes Matthew Artson, Carolyn Freeman Champ, Joanna Churgin, Ayelet Firstenberg, Steven Flowers, Jim Goodrich, Tom McMahon, Lucas Moore, Sheldon Morley, Danielle Morris, Yassi Noubahar, Eileen O’Donnell, Daniella Painton, Brandon Stanford, John David Wallis and James Paul Xavier.
Morgan-Wixson Theatre is located at 2627 Pico Blvd, Santa Monica, CA 90405. Click Here for reservations or call (310) 828-7519.
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Labels: morgan-wixson
Wednesday, February 22, 2012
ROCCOPELLA with George Spielvogel at The Garage Theatre
Rocco and his zany friends take you on a wild journey with laughter, music, and dancing. Watch as Rocco prepares in his bedroom for his Rock debut, and eight hysterically colorful characters enter his sorld, joining in with their comical tales and musical antics. Rock n' roll? Hip hop? Etc.? Rocco and his bunch do it all! Get yer groove on to their A-capella (nah, Rocco-Pella) song stylings and nasty wicked music videos.
ROCCOPELLA will play March 2nd and 3rd at 8:00 pm at The Garage Theatre, 251 E. 7th Street, Long Beach, CA 90810. Tickets are $10 cash at the door. Click Here for more information or call 866-811-4111.
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Labels: garage theatre
The Last Five Years to Play One Performance at The Grove Theatre
Jason Robert Brown’s The Last Five Years comes to The Grove for one night only on March 9th. It is an emotionally powerful and intimate contemporary song-cycle musical that ingeniously chronicles the five year life of a marriage, from meeting to break-up... or from break-up to meeting, depending on how you look at it. The show's unconventional structure consists of Cathy, the woman, telling her story backwards while Jamie, the man, tells his story chronologically; the two characters only meet once, at their wedding in the middle of the show.The Last Five Years is directed by Nancy Gettinger and stars Amanda Kalkanis as Cathy and James Ellis as Jamie. Please note that the subject matter is recommended for age 13 and over. The Grove Theatre is located at 276 E 9th Street, Upland, CA 91786. Click Here for tickets or call the box office at (909) 920-4343.
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Labels: the grove theatre
Tuesday, February 21, 2012
Bets Malone Stars in Cabrillo Music Theatre's Once Upon a Mattress
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| Bets Malone in Once Upon a Mattress Photo: Jerry Fritchman. Courtesy of Musical Theatre Wichita |
Will a small pea hidden below twenty mattresses cause the Princess a sleepless night? Will the Evil Queen keep two lovebirds apart? These and other questions get answered in Cabrillo Music Theatre’s all-new production of Once Upon a Mattress, the fairy tale musical perfect for the entire family. With music by Mary Rodgers, lyrics by Marshall Barer, and a book by Jay Thompson, Dean Fuller, and Marshall Barer, Once Upon a Mattress tells the story of Winnifred, the girl who might be a princess, and who swims the moat in order to marry Prince Dauntless the Drab.
Bets Malone (The Marvelous Wonderettes) leads the cast as Princess Winnifred, along with Scott Reardon as Prince Dauntless, Tracy Lore as Queen Aggravain, and Danny Gurwin as the Minstrel. Once Upon a Mattress is directed by Richard Israel, with choreography by Cheryl Baxter, and musical direction by Daniel Thomas. Thomas will also lead the Cabrillo Music Theatre Orchestra.
And here’s a fun bit of news. In keeping with the theme of the show, any audience member showing up in pajamas will receive a free gift!
Once Upon a Mattress runs April 20 - 29 at the 1,800-seat Kavli Theatre at the Thousand Oaks Civic Arts Plaza, 2100 Thousand Oaks Boulevard in Thousand Oaks. Click Here for tickets and more information.
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Labels: cabrillo music theatre
SPAMALOT Opens Feb 28 at the Pantages
Monty Python’s SPAMALOT, the Tony Award-winning Best Musical of 2005, returns to Los Angeles, playing a limited one week engagement February 28 - March 4, 2012 at the Pantages Theatre. Lovingly "ripped-off" from the internationally famous comedy team's most popular motion picture, Monty Python and the Holy Grail, Monty Python's SPAMALOT is the winner of three 2005 Tony Awards including Best Musical and Best Director (Mike Nichols), as well as the Drama Desk and Outer Critics Circle awards for Best Musical.
Telling the legendary tale of King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table, and their quest for the Holy Grail, Monty Python's SPAMALOT features a chorus line of dancing divas and knights, flatulent Frenchmen, killer rabbits and one legless knight. Don't miss this terrifically good time! Click Here for tickets and more information.
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Labels: pantages
Monday, February 20, 2012
Jimmy Fallon's Broadway Week, Kritzerland Hosts Gershwin, and Lea Salonga at the Globe
Late Night With Jimmy Fallon kicks off Broadway Week beginning tonight. The show airs weeknights at 12:35 AM on NBC and each night this week Jimmy’s show will feature a musical number from a different Broadway show. Tonight’s episode will also include Anjelica Huston from Smash. Here is who is on the schedule:Feb. 20: Nick Jonas from How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying
Feb. 21: David Alan Grier from The Gershwins' Porgy and Bess
Feb. 22: A sneak peak with the cast of Ghost The Musical
Feb. 23: Sutton Foster from Anything Goes
Feb. 24: The cast of Sister Act
Click Here for more details.
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Kritzerland presents The Ira Gershwin Album Sunday, March 4 at 7:00 pm, based on the CD of the same name, produced by Bruce Kimmel. You’ll hear classics such as “The Man Who Got Away,” “Someone to Watch Over Me,” “The Man I Love,” “The Saga of Jenny,” “I Got Rhythm/Fascinatin’ Rhythm,” as well as some lesser-known but equally s’wonderful material. The show will star Lauren Leigh Barke, Damon Kirsche, Melody Hollis, Jane Noseworthy, and Shannon Warne, with special guest Andrea Marcovicci and musical direction by Shelly Markham. For dinner reservations (5:30 – 6:00 pm) call 818 754-8700. $31 per person food and drink minimum, includes cover charge.Sterling’s at Vitello’s, 4349 Tujunga Avenue, Studio City, CA 91604.
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The Old Globe will host its 2012 Globe Gala on Saturday, July 28 in support of the theater’s education and artistic programs. The annual event will feature an exclusive performance by Broadway veteran and Tony Award winner Lea Salonga, known worldwide for her roles in Miss Saigon and Les Misérables. Salonga will star this fall at the Globe in Allegiance – A New American Musical. The black-tie event will begin with a reception and silent auction in Balboa Park’s Alcazar Garden, where guests will have the opportunity to bid on over 250 items. Dinner and dancing to the music of Impulse will follow Salonga’s performance.
The Sheraton San Diego Hotel and Marina will cater the reception and dinner, and valet parking is included in the price of the ticket. Tickets are $750 (regular seating) and $1,000 (VIP seating) each and include the performance, dinner and dancing. To purchase tickets or to become an underwriter, contact Eileen Prisby, Events Manager, at (619) 231-1941 x2303 or eprisby@TheOldGlobe.org.
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Labels: jimmy fallon, kritzerland, old globe
Friday, February 17, 2012
Over the Moon Opens Intimate Production of Spring Awakening
In addition to Pearce and Parrish, the cast features Michael David, Veronica Dunne, David Carey Foster, Tiffany Gray, Chris Higgins, Reesa Ishiyama, Hope Lauren, Kelly Lester, Payson Lewis, Matt Magnusson, Molly McCook, Harrison Meloeny, Ritesh Rajan, Alyce Tawil, Mat Vairo and Chase Williamson.
Spring Awakening is the rock musical adaptation of the 1892 German play by Frank Wedekind. Set in late-19th century Germany, it concerns a group of teenagers who are discovering the inner and outer tumult of their awakening sexuality and the complications that arise because of them. It received eleven 2007 Tony Award nominations, winning eight, including Tonys for best musical, direction, book, score and featured actor. Although the cultural landscape has changed quite a bit since Wedekind wrote his play in the late 1800's, the enduring themes are still as timely and topical as ever.
Spring Awakening will preview on Wednesday, March 14 and Thursday March 15 at 8pm and will open on Friday, March 16th and continue through Sunday, April 22 at the Theatre of Arts Arena Stage, 1625 N. Las Palmas Avenue in Hollywood. For tickets, please visit http://www.brownpapertickets.com/ or http://www.overthemoonproductions.virb.com/ or call 310-903-6150.
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Wednesday, February 15, 2012
The Troubies are Back with Two Gents
When friends Proteus and Valentine give up another Saturday in the Park and head to the big city of Milan, Proteus' love Julia protests with, "If You Leave Me Now who will Colour My World?” Proteus proclaims, "I Don't Wanna Live Without Your Love but I'm A Man and must go!" Meanwhile in Milan, the sour-on-love Valentine finds new Beginnings when he encounters the lovely Silvia. But when Proteus meets Silvia, he falls for her as well, and his beloved Julia is NOT such a Hard Habit to Break. Mayhem ensues when both men tell Silvia, "You're the Inspiration". This is a Once in a Lifetime chance and the Troubies are Wishing You Were Here!
The show begins previews March 14 and will open Friday, March 23 at 8pm and continue through Sunday, April 22. Tickets go on sale February 22 and can be purchased online at http://www.falcontheatre.com/ or by calling 818- 955-8101.
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Labels: troubies, troubies. falcon theatre
Monday, February 13, 2012
Cabrillo Music Theatre Announces 2012-13 Season
Cabrillo Music Theatre proudly announces its 2012-2013 season, which will treat audiences to four Cabrillo premieres, with three of them also Civic Arts Plaza premieres. The entire season is family friendly, and every show is locally produced. Here’s what's in store for audiences next season.October 19 – October 28, 2012
1776
Music & Lyrics and concept by Sherman Edwards
Book by Peter Stone
Directed by Nick DeGruccio
Musical Direction by Darryl Archibald
February 8 – February 17, 2013
You’re A Good Man, Charlie Brown
Book, Music & Lyrics by Clark Gesner
Based on the Comic Strip “Peanuts” by Charles M. Schultz
Additional Dialogue by Michael Mayer
Additional Music & Lyrics by Andrew Lippa
April 12 – April 21, 2013
Grease
Book, Music & Lyrics by Jim Jacobs and Warren Casey
Directed by Barry Pearl
Choreographed by Kelly Ward
July 19 – July 28, 2013
Legally Blonde: The Musical
Book by Heather Hach
Music & Lyrics by Laurence O’Keefe and Nell Benjamin
A post-show discussion with cast and staff follows the first Saturday matinee of each production. A signed performance for the deaf and hard-of-hearing will take place on the second Friday night of each production. For tickets or ticket information, please call the Thousand Oaks Civic Arts Plaza Box Office at 805-449-2787. The Thousand Oaks Civic Arts Plaza is located at 2100 Thousand Oaks Blvd., Thousand Oaks, CA.
Cabrillo Music Theatre’s 2011-2012 Season continues with Once Upon a Mattress (April 20-29, 2012) and Meet Me in St. Louis (July 20-29, 2012). For more information go to http://www.cabrillomusictheatre.org//.
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Labels: cabrillo music theatre
Saturday, February 11, 2012
The Colony Theatre's Old Wicked Songs
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| Tavis Danz and John Towey. Photo by Michael Lamont |
A beautiful production of Jon Marans' Old Wicked Songs is currently charming audiences at The Colony Theatre in Burbank. The Pulitzer Prize nominated play about a burned out American piano prodigy and an aging Austrian music teacher resonates delicately on the Colony stage as it unravels secrets from the past and allows each man the opportunity to find his way back to himself.
Stephen Hoffman (Tavis Danz) is the pianist trying to overcome his inability to play and Professor Josef Mashkan (John Towey) is the singing teacher who struggles to help him recapture his joy for music. It is a poignant journey as each learns to find value in a life that has become meaningless.
Classical music lovers will find the play especially moving because it uses Schumann’s Dichterliebe as the mechanism through which its characters learn to speak the same language. It is a perfect vehicle for the teacher’s lessons and any student of music who has a relationship with the song cycle will find it especially meaningful - though you don’t need to be familiar with it to experience its full impact.
Schumann’s settings of Heinrich Heine’s poems are used with great impact to underscore the subtext of the scenes, from the haunting insistence of “Im wunderschönen Monat Mai,” which speaks delicately of suffering and longing in the beautiful month of May, through “Die Rose, die Lilie, die Taube, die Sonne,” a jewel of a song that interestingly compels its singer to speed through the vocal line on one breath, to “Ich grolle nicht,” filled with bitter images of night in a cold lover’s empty heart.
Stephanie Vlahos directs with great sensitivity and elicits compelling performances from both Towey and Danz. Old Wicked Songs is often done with pre-recorded music but because these actors are also musicians who are able to play the music, it deepens the theatrical experience and makes it even more emotionally engaging. One can only congratulate The Colony creative team for finding two actors with such a specific set of skills to do justice to the piece.
Sound is essential to the success of the play and Drew Dalzell's work is pitch perfect. Stephen Gifford’s gorgeous set is impeccable in its detail and Jared A. Sayeg’s lighting casts a luminous glow. If there was ever such a thing as a love affair between lighting and a face, it can be seen in the way Sayeg highlights Towey’s silent thoughts. It is quite simply, divine.
Old Wicked Songs runs through March 4 at the Colony Theatre, 555 North Third Street, Burbank. Reservations: 818 558-7000 x 15. http://www.colonytheatre.org/.
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Labels: colony theatre
Thursday, February 9, 2012
L.A.'s Celebration Theatre Welcomes The Color Purple
Celebration Theatre is thrilled to announce that the third show of its 2011-2012 Season will be the L.A. intimate theatre premiere of The Color Purple, book by Marsha Norman, music and lyrics by Brenda Russell, Allee Willis and Stephen Bray, musical direction by Gregory Nabours, choreography by Janet Roston and directed by Michael Matthews. The Color Purple will open on Friday, March 9 and will perform through Saturday, May 26 at Celebration Theatre in Hollywood.The Color Purple is the soul-stirring musical based on the classic Pulitzer Prize-winning novel by Alice Walker and the moving film by Steven Spielberg. It is the unforgettable and inspiring story of a woman named Celie, who finds her unique voice in the world. Nominated for 11 Tony Awards®, The Color Purple is a landmark theatrical event, a celebration of love, and a Broadway phenomenon. With a joyous Grammy®-nominated score featuring jazz, gospel and blues, The Color Purple will capture the hearts of young and old, and unite audiences in a community of joy.
The cast will feature: Cesili Willimas as Celie, American Idol’s La Toya London as Shug, Michael A. Shepperd as Mister, Constance Jewell Lopez as Sofia, Terrance Spencer as Harpo and will also feature Niketa Calame, Sixx Carter, Charls Sedgwick Hall, Kelly M. Jenrette, Corey Jones, Akula Lymon, Lorie V. Moore, Jacquelin L. Schofield, Na’Kia Bell Smith, Jonathan Thompkins, Janet Washington and Brittney S. Wheeler.
It is produced by Christopher Sepulveda and Cameron Faber and features an award-winning design team that includes Cricket S. Myers (sound design), Stephen Gifford (scenic design), Naila Aladin Sanders (costume design), Michael Leon (wigs and make-up), Tim Swiss (lighting design), Marcedes Clanton (stage manager). The production team is being led by the artistic director, John Michael Beck, and executive director, Michael C. Kricfalusi.
Previews begin on Wednesday, March 7 and the show will open Friday, March 9. Performances will continue through Saturday, May 26 at Celebration Theatre, 7051B Santa Monica Blvd (1/2 block east of La Brea) in Hollywood. For tickets, please call (323) 957-1884 or visit http://www.celebrationtheatre.com/.
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Labels: celebration theatre
Rock of Ages is Back to Rock the Pantages!
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| The cast of Rock of Ages. Photo credit: Scott Suchman |
Rock of Ages returns to Los Angeles for a strictly limited, face-melting one week engagement March 20 - 25, 2012 at the Pantages Theatre. L.A. audiences were so amped during the show's premiere engagement this past February that it was clear those die-hard fans who continued singing "Don't Stop Believin'" down Hollywood Boulevard as they left the Pantages Theatre hadn't been rocked hard enough! Well L.A. audiences can "feel the noize" again this coming March 2012.
It's 1987 on the Sunset Strip, a small-town girl met a big-city dreamer - and in L.A.'s most legendary rock club, they fall in love to the greatest songs of the ‘80's. It's Rock of Ages, a hilarious, feel-good love story told through the hit songs of iconic rockers Journey, Styx, REO Speedwagon, Foreigner, Pat Benatar, Whitesnake, and many more.
See it now before the New Line Cinema/Warner Bros. film of the musical, directed by Adam Shankman (Hairspray), is released later this year. Click Here for more information about the show and for tickets visit http://www.broadwayla.org/.
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Labels: pantages
The Golden Age of Hollywood Revisited
Looking for something different to do this weekend? You can catch a performance of Hollywood Revisited Saturday February 11 at 8pm at Westwood Presbyterian Church, 10822 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90024. The show stars Joshua Finkel (who also directs) along with Greg Schreiner, Jill Marie Burke and Elisa Surmont. Special Guests include Hollywood movie legend Rhonda Fleming and Broadway star Karen Morrow.
Experience what it's like to watch the stars walk the red carpet as your favorite Tinseltown classics come to life in Hollywood Revisited. This stunning musical revue showcases a truly dazzling lineup of costumes actually worn by the stars in the original Hollywood films. Set to the music that defined the times and presented by top notch Broadway and Hollywood performers, Hollywood Revisited will leave you in awe as you learn about and come close enough to touch these original historic costume designs of Hollywood's Golden Age.
Tickets are $25 and include a reception following the show. Call 310-474-4535 for reservations. (Leave message if after hours). http://www.hollywoodrevisited.com/.
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Labels: hollywood revisited
Wednesday, February 8, 2012
DOMA Announces A Six Musical Season in 2012
DOMA Theatre Company has announced its first full length season of six musicals sure to delight and disturb audiences in 2012. Here’s a look at what ‘s on tap.March 23–April 15
The Who’s Tommy
Book by Pete Townshend & Des McAnuff
Music & Lyrics by Pete Townshend
Additional Music/Lyrics by John Entwistle & Keith Moon
Directed by Hallie Baran
Musical Direction by Chris Raymond
DOMA opens the season with the exhilarating story of a deaf, dumb, and blind boy who transcends the cruelty of the world around him to find enlightenment. A tribute to hope, healing and the human spirit, Pete Townsend’s musical masterpiece is filled with iconic hit songs like "Pinball Wizard," "See Me, Feel Me," "Acid Queen" and more.
May 11 – June 3
Songs For A New World
Book, Music & Lyrics by Jason Robert Brown
Directed by Chris M. Allport
Musical Direction by Chris Raymond
Soaring melodies and irresistible rhythms mark this collection of story-songs by composer Jason Robert Brown (13, Parade). Sixteen driving, exquisitely crafted songs tell sixteen unique stories peopled by characters of today.
July 6 - 29
Jekyll & Hyde, The Musical
Book & Lyrics by Leslie Bricusse
Music by Frank Wildhorn
Directed by Marco Gomez
Musical Direction by Dolf Ramos
In this Tony Award-nominated musical adaptation of Robert Louis Stevenson’s classic tale, a well-meaning Dr. Henry Jekyll desperately seeks a cure for evil – but is instead pitted in a cruel battle against Edward Hyde, his own evil alter ego. Features the remarkable music of Frank Wildhorn including “Someone Like You,” “This Is The Moment” and “Once Upon A Dream.”
August 17 – September 9
Xanadu
Book by Douglas Carter Beane
Music & Lyrics by Jeff Lynne and John Farrar
Directed by Hallie Baran
Musical Direction by Chris Raymond
A hysterically funny roller skating ride to bliss! Based on the cult film of the same name, the musical follows the efforts of a magical Greek muse named Kira who descends to Earth to help a struggling artist achieve his dream of opening a roller disco.
September 21 – October 14
Once on This Island
Book & Lyrics by Lynn Ahrens
Music by Stephen Flaherty
Based on the novel “My Love, My Love” by Rosa Guy
Directed by Marco Gomez
Musical Direction by Dolf Ramos
This adaptation of The Little Mermaid is the story of Ti Moune, a peasant girl who rescues, nurses and falls in love with Daniel, a man from a wealthy family. But Daniel is engaged to marry a girl from his own social class, and the gods who rule the island guide Ti Moune on a quest to test the strength of her love against the powerful forces of prejudice, hatred and death.
November 2 – December 9
A surprise, Tony-Award winning musical TBA
DOMA has a great musical lined up to close the 2012 season, but we’re not permitted to announce it just yet – so stay tuned!
All performances take place at The MET Theatre, 1089 N. Oxford Ave. Los Angeles CA 90029. Click Here for more information and to purchase individual tickets or subscribe to the 2012 season.
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Labels: DOMA
Monday, February 6, 2012
GCT Continues its 65th Season with Fiddler on the Roof
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| Richard Malmos as Tevya Photos by Nathan J. Milisavljevich |
This year Glendale Centre Theatre officially celebrates its 65th season as the longest, continually operating theatre in the United States. As their first musical of the season, they will present the universally loved, 9-time Tony Award winning musical Fiddler on the Roof February 9 through March 24.
One of the great works of the American musical theatre, Fiddler on the Roof features a book by Joseph Stein, and a score by Jerry Bock and Sheldon Harnick. Based on the stories of Sholom Alecheim and set in a small Ukrainian village during the early 1900’s, the book embraces the importance of tradition and the struggle of maintaining tradition in a rapidly changing world through its central character Tevye, a poor milkman and father of five daughters, whose life gets complicated as he seeks to find suitable husbands for them amidst the turmoil and political upheaval all around him.
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| Heather Dudenbostel, Nicole Ligerman, and Daron O'Donnell |
Musical theatre stars Richard Malmos as Tevye and Lisa Dyson as Golde have been set to lead a cast composed of Osa Danam (Yente), Lindsay Day (Fruma Sarah), Mario Digregorio (Lazar Wolf), Heather Dudenbostel (Hodel), Laurie Fedor (A Mama), Christa Hamilton (GranmaTzeitel), Paul Hovannes (Perchik), Aaron Jacobs(Mendel), Nicole Ligerman (Tzeitel), Danny Michael (Rabbi), Art Miller (Avram), Tyler Milliron (Fyedka), Nick Mizrahi (the Fiddler), Michael Montiel (Motel), Daron O’Donnell (Chava), Paul Reid (Second Boy from the left), Chelsea Rifkin (Bielke), Michael Shaughnessy (Constable), David Michael Trevino (Mordka), and Cedric Wright (Nachum).
Martin Lang returns to direct his 8th production for GCT, having previously directed the critically acclaimed productions of Beau Jest, Bye Bye Birdie and Oklahoma. Steven Applegate is the musical director and Brenda & Tim Dietlein are executive producers. The production team includes Orlando Alexander (choreography), Angela Wood (costume design), Tim Deitlein (set and lighting design), Nathan J. Milisavljevich (sound design) and Caitlin Barbieri (stage manager),
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| Lisa Dyson and Richard Malmos |
Fiddler on the Roof runs February 9 - March 24. Tickets range between $22.00 and $28.00. Discount rates are available for seniors (62+) and children (under 14), and for groups of 15 or more. All shows feature open seating except on Reserved Seating Fridays. The Glendale Centre Theatre is located at 324 N. Orange St., Glendale, CA 91203. Click Here for tickets or call 818-244-8481.
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Labels: glendale centre theatre