Friday, September 13, 2013
Musical News Around Town for September 13, 2013
OPENINGS: The Pasadena Playhouse and Lythgoe Family Productions (LFP), has announced principal casting for Aladdin and His Winter Wish, starring Ben Vereen as The Genie, Jordan Fisher as Aladdin, Ashley Argota as The Princess, Richard Karn as The Sultan, Paul Vogt as Widow Twankey, and Josh Adamson as Evil Abanazar. Returning to the Playhouse for Aladdin are director Bonnie Lythgoe, choreographer Spencer Liff, and musical director Michael Orland. Performances will run Dec. 11 – 29, with a gala press opening night on Wed., Dec. 11 at 7:00 pm.An updated version of the classic Arabian Nights tale, in the style of a traditional British family Panto, Aladdin and His Winter Wish is a singing, swinging and soaring adventure that features family-friendly magic, with a comedic twist, dancing, a live pony and contemporary music from “Jai Ho” (Slumdog Millionaire) to “Treasure” (Bruno Mars) and many more. A Panto is known for its interactive style and humor that appeals to everyone from ages 2 – 102. Before every performance, guests and their families are invited to enjoy a Citi® Presents: Winter Wonderland event in The Playhouse’s Engemann Family Courtyard, complete with holiday carolers, crafts, activities, games, and photo opportunities. Twelve local children will also be cast for the production. Open auditions will be held on October 5. Visit www.AmericanPanto.com for more information. Tickets: 626-356-7529 or www.PasadenaPlayhouse.org.
The Norris Center for the Performing Arts presents Mel Brooks’ The Producers, September 20 – October 6. Based on the classic film of the same name, the irreverent musical follows the hilarious adventures of washed-up Broadway producer Max Bialystock and his mild-mannered accountant Leo Bloom, as they scheme to get rich by overselling interests in what is sure to be the most notorious flop in the history of show business. They find the worst play ever written, hire a lead actor and director with no talent, and then wait for the bad reviews. But things go awry when the show becomes a huge hit. The Norris Theatre production features a 15-piece orchestra and a cast of 22 actors. It is produced by James Gruessing and directed and choreographed by Mathhew J. Vargo, with musical direction by Daniel Thomas. Principal cast members include Nick Santa Maria (Max Bialystock), Marc Baron Ginsburg (Leo Bloom), Elaine Hayhurst (Ulla), Ken Prescott (Roger DeBris), Jon Wailin (Carmen Ghia) and James Gruessing (Franz Liebkind). Tickets: (310) 544-0403 or www.norriscenter.com. The Norris Theatre is located at 27570 Norris Center Drive in Rolling Hills Estates. Free parking is available adjacent to the theatre.
CABARET/CONCERTS: Sterlings Upstairs at the Federal presents Will Collyer: A one-man solo autodrama cabaret in which he tells stories from his life and then sings thematically relevant musical theater songs, directed by Mandy Kaplan with musical direction by Brett Ryback. For reservations call (818) 754-8700. Tickets are $38 (VIP reserved seating) and $28 (general admission). Both levels include $10 towards your food and drinks. For more information visit www.MSAPR.net or www.willcollyer.com.
Nicole Parker, now appearing in 3-D Theatricals’ production of Funny Girl will appear at Musical Mondays LA on September 17 at 10:00pm. Eleven Nightclub is located at 8811 Santa Monica Blvd, West Hollywood, CA 90069.
Clifford Bell hosts Here and Now, with Joanne Tatham, Hillary Turk, Alexandra Theodora Spurlock and Jake Anthony, Saturday Sept. 14 at M Bar Hollywood, 1253 North Vine Street, Los Angeles, 90038. Featuring Nate Light on the bass.
Remembering Rick Starr: A Sentimental Journey will take place at the El Portal Theater, Sunday, October 6. Doors open at 4:30 pm. Program to begin at 5:00 pm. A brief reception will follow in the lobby. Richard Starr died unexpectedly on July 8, 2013, at age 62. He is missed and mourned by his family and legions of friends who flocked to "Hollywood Sheet Music" to reap the benefit of his extraordinary knowledge of classic popular song and theatre music.
Having served as manager and consultant at the legendary music store for many years, Rick was a pillar of the entertainment community, offering his expertise to TV and film projects, superstar recording artists, and every newcomer to the Los Angeles theatrical community equally. In 2007 Actors Equity awarded him the Lucy Jordan Recognition Award “for going above and beyond.” He also received an award from Backstage in 2008. Rick’s life was defined by a unique kindness, generosity, and a deep love of the musical art he performed so vibrantly and supported for so many. Memorial contributions can be made to The Actors Fund in gratitude for their excellent care and service: The Actors Fund, 5757 Wilshire Blvd. Suite 400 Los Angeles, CA 90036, 323-933-9244.
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