Wednesday, July 25, 2018

Review: PUMP BOYS AND DINETTES Will Win You Over Hook, Line, and Sinker

Cori Cable Kidder and Michael Butler Murray. All photos by Gina Long

 One thing’s for sure - country musicals are an awful lot of fun. There aren’t very many of them and, if you can name one at all, it’s most likely The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas or The Robber Bridegroom. But there is another rarely produced gem that is just as enjoyable – Pump Boys and Dinettes - the fun-loving retro revue written by its original cast (John Foley, Mark Hardwick, Debra Monk, Cass Morgan, John Schimmel, and Jim Wann).

 The year is 1972, according to the giant Farrah Fawcett poster on the piano, and the place is Highway 57, between the town of Frog Level (yes, it’s an actual town) and Smyrna, North Carolina. There, the Double Cupp Diner and the Pump Boys’ filling station share a cozy corner of the asphalt just a spittin’ distance apart, and if its hometown hospitality you’re lookin’ for you’ve come to the right place.

 Sisters Prudie (Emily Kay Townsend) and Rhetta Cupp (Cori Cable Kidder) run the diner; Jim (Michael Butler Murray) and his buddy L.M. (Sean Paxton) run the garage. The boys also have a band that includes their buddies Jackson (Jimmy Villaflor), Eddie (Kevin Tiernan) and Bobby (Jim Miller), good old boys who don’t take life too seriously. Sometimes they work on cars but mostly they just enjoy taken’ life slow.

 They’ll tell you about it too in songs - twenty of them - that reflect the values and goings on of life in a small town, with all its quirks and heart. The music is anything but pretentious and the characters are typical no-nonsense Southerners who aren’t above teasing each other whenever they get the chance.

 The ladies know the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach so you’ll always find the coffee hot and the pecan pie fresh. Jim is sweet on Rhetta and Prudie has a thing for L.M., which means a fair amount of flirtatious banter gets thrown back and forth. Jackson is a charmer and Eddie doesn’t say much. They’re all friends, and there is something comforting about a group of pals watching out for each other and telling it like it is.
Cori Cable Kidder and Emily Kay Townsend

 Murray introduces the lot and narrates with an easy manner, much like a local tour guide pointing out all the best tidbits only an insider knows. Villaflor is the eye candy of the group, sporting an aw-shucks grin that would melt any woman within fifty yards. L.M. is often cast as a nerd but Paxton plays up his suspicious, silent side so when he gets to “The Night Dolly Parton Was Almost Mine” it makes the story even more endearing. Kidder is the “Wynonna” belter and Townsend sings sweetly.

 Collectively, they have a good command of the style and personality necessary to make the music come alive and sound best when they don’t oversing. Murray’s “Mamaw” and Kidder and Townsend’s “Sister” are two examples of letting the melody and lyrics do the work for you. In fact, the whole show works best when it doesn’t try too hard.

 Great songs like the boys’ acapella “Fisherman’s Prayer” need to lay back so we can hear the barbershop harmonies and “Vacation” turns harsh if the singers start to scream-sing. What makes this show so special is how the story songs connect with the audience.

 There are times Allison Bibicoff’s choreography and staging try to make the show a bigger musical presentation than it is organically. Less is more, especially since there is an innocence to the show that gets lost when you “musical theatre-ize” it too much. It’s all about the lyrics and the stories. When you let it be easy, it lands every time, like the final chords in “Closing Time.”
Emily Kay Townsend, Jim Miller, Jimmy Villaflor, Mike Murray,
Cori Cable Kidder, and Sean Paxton

 The production design incorporates the ‘70s orange and vinyl touches that make the period authentic. Jeff G. Rack’s set design is a playful roadside double wonder with room for both garage and diner, including half a ‘50s muscle car mid tune-up, onstage booth seating for a few lucky audience members, and a fun Florida vacation insert. He even gives lighting designer Derek Jones room to create an unexpectedly lovely working night sky.

 I love this musical and, if you can sit and listen to great story songs all day like I can, you will too. From its fun opening to its hushed final notes, Pump Boys will win you over hook, line and sinker.
Emily Kay Townsend and Sean Paxton with Mike Murray,
Kevin Tiernan, and Jimmy Villaflor

Emily Kay Townsend and Cori Cable Kidder

Jimmy Villaflor, Mike Murray, Cori Cable Kidder and Emily Kay Townsend

PUMP BOYS AND DINETTES
Now through August 12, 2018
Sierra Madre Playhouse
87 W. Sierra Madre Blvd., Sierra Madre, CA 91024
Tickets: (626) 355-4318 or www.sierramadreplayhouse.org
Free parking behind the theater.

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Thursday, July 10, 2014

Musical News for Thursday, July 10, 2014

MUSICAL NEWS: If you missed Bronies: The Musical at the Hollywood Fringe Festival you can catch it during one of its two additional performances July 11 & 12 at the Lounge Theater. The Encore! Producers' Award winner for Best Musical is the story of three outsiders who find purpose, meaning, love – and each other – all thanks to cartoon ponies, featuring music by Joe Greene, book & lyrics by Heidi Powers & Tom Moore, direction & music direction by Ryan Bergmann, and choreography by Joseph Corella-Sandler. Lounge Theater, 6201 Santa Monica Blvd. Tickets are $15 online and $20 at the door. www.broniesthemusical.com

 Sierra Madre Playhouse has announced a new slate of shows to carry its programming into early 2015. Musicals will include A Little House Christmas adapted by James DeVita from the books by Laura Ingalls Wilder, directed by Emily Chase. (Nov. 28 - Dec. 28, 2014), Always…Patsy Cline by Ted Swindley, directed by Robert Marra (May 8- June 28, 2015) and Einstein is a Dummy, book & lyrics by Karen Zacarias, music by Deborah Wicks La Puma, directed by Mary Jo Duprey (Jan.16 – Feb. 28, 2015). As an adult, Albert Einstein changed our view of the universe. But as a boy, he struggled with the same issues any 12-year-old might—keeping up with violin lessons, impressing the girl next door and, oh yeah, comprehending the fundamental relationship of space and time to the speed of light, of course. As with last season’s Battledrum, the Playhouse is offering a musical entertainment that will appeal to an underserved youth audience as well as to its adult patrons. For a list of all the shows on their season, go to www.sierramadreplayhouse.org.

The Troubies bring A Midsummer Saturday Night’s Fever Dream to Shakespeare/Summerfest Orange County’s July 24 - August 1. This play-off of Shakespeare’s classic comedy, directed by Matt Walker, tells this story of magic potions and foolish lovers through some of disco’s greatest hits. The production includes a cast made up of acrobats, musicians, improvisers, and clowns, as well as a four piece band and an almost entirely improvised second act. Featured are Rick Batalla, Joe Keane, Beth Kennedy Will, Tyler King, Katherine Malak, Rob Nagle, Suzanne Narbonne, Morgan Rusler, Monica Schneider, Mike Sulprizio, Lisa Valenzuela, and Matt Walker. Tickets: (714) 590-1575 or www.shakespeareoc.org.

DANCE: La Mirada Theatre for the Performing Arts will show a high definition screening of Matthew Bourne’s legendary reimagining of Swan Lake, directed and choreographed by Matthew Bourne on Sunday, August 10 at 2:00 pm. An iconic production, perhaps best–known for replacing the traditional female corps de ballet with a menacing male ensemble, it was filmed at Sadler’s Wells, London in 2011. The stellar cast includes the magnificent Richard Winsor as the lead Swan/Stranger, Dominic North as The Prince and Nina Goldman as The Queen. Tickets are $20. www.lamiradatheatre.com

 CONCERTS/CABARET: MISCAST: Right Singer, Wrong Song returns to Sterling’s Upstairs at the Federal, Monday, July 21st. Reservations: (818) 754-8700.


Acclaimed blues singer Mary Bridget Davies, nominated for a Tony® this year for her Broadway lead in A Night With Janis Joplin, will return to The Pasadena Playhouse for four nights July 17-20. She first wowed Pasadena crowds in 2013 with her Janis Joplin role. The new show, dubbed Playhouse Rocks! will incorporate Janis Joplin and Big Brother & The Holding Company hits, blues, rock and soul songs as well as music from some of Ms. Davies’ other favorite artists like Etta James, Al Green, Aretha Franklin, Joe Cocker, Jimi Hendrix, The Band and Amy Winehouse. Tickets: www.pasadenaplayhouse.org.


Next to Normal will kick off Cabaret at The Merc’s 2014 Summer Series for one weekend only, July 11, 12 & 13 at The Merc in Temecula. This emotional tour de force features music by Tom Kitt, and book & lyrics by Brian Yorkey. The cast includes longtime San Diego actress Susan Jordan Deleon in the role of Diana with Victor Hernandez as Dan, Susan’s real-life daughter, Jordan Deleon as Natalie, Zack Zumbek as Gabe. David Baca as Henry, and Matthew Malecki as Dr. Madden. Cabaret at the Merc is produced by Jordan Beck and J. Scott Lapp. Tickets: (866) 653-8696 or www.CabaretAtTheMerc.com. The Merc in Temecula, 42051 Main St. Temecula, 92590.


Following Next To Normal at Cabaret at the Merc is Spring Awakening on August 8 – 11, book & lyrics by Steven Sater, music by Duncan Sheik,musical direction by Cris O’Bryon, choreography by Evan D’Angeles and directed by J. Scott Lapp. The company includes Nick Eiter, Emily Chelsea, Austyn Myers, Lindsay Joan, Hayley Marian, Jonathan Sangster, Tyler Lenhart, A.J.Foggiano, Claire Keefer, Bailey Sonner, Zackary Scot Wolfe, Joseph Arreola and Katie Larsen. Tickets: (866) 653-8696 or www.CabaretAtTheMerc.com. The Merc in Temecula, 42051 Main St. Temecula, 92590.

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Sunday, May 18, 2014

Photo Flash: Gilbert & Sullivan's THE GONDOLIERS at Sierra Madre Playhouse

Sierra Madre Playhouse presents Gilbert & Sullivan’s The Gondoliers through June 21, directed and adapted by Alison Eliel Kalmus, with musical direction by Leonardo Sciolis and choreography by Angela Nicholas. Tickets: (626) 355-4318 or www.sierramadreplayhouse.org.

L-R: Jeff Bratz, Jenny Augen, November Christine and Nicholas Mongiardo-Cooper

Clockwise from bottom left: Brooke Johnson, Olivia O'Neill,
MarLee Candell, Jenny Augen, Karim Coleman.

L-R: Jeff Bratz, Jenny Augen, November Christine and Nicholas Mongiardo-Cooper

L-R: DW McCann, Jenna Augen, November Christine and Nicholas Mongiardo Cooper

November Christine and Nicholas Mongiardo-Cooper

L-R: DW McCann, Jenna Augen, November Christine and Nicholas Mongiardo Cooper.

 Photo credit
Top 3 photos: Gina Long
Botton 3 photos: Ward Calaway

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Monday, April 21, 2014

Musical News for Monday, April 21, 2014

OPENINGS: San Diego Musical Theatre presents Irving Berlin’s Annie Get Your Gun starring Beth Malone as Annie Oakley and Steve Blanchard as Frank Butler  May 9-25 (Opening Night is Sat. May 10). Annie Get Your Gun will be directed and choreographed by John Todd with musical direction by Don LeMaster. The cast also includes John Polhamus, Paul Morgavo, Sean Tamburrino, Debbie David, Jeni Baker, Steven Rada, Jim Marshall, Conor Tibbs, Amy Beth Batchelor, Eric Betts, Liz Daniels, Carlos Ferrusca, Siri Hafso, Danny Hansen, Aurore Joly, Tellina Lee, Tamara Rodriguez, Justin Segura, Taylor Simmons, Noah Baird, Ava Bunn, Taylor Coleman and Claire Scheper. www.sdmt.org
Sierra Madre Playhouse will present Gilbert & Sullivan’s The Gondoliers May 16 – June 21, directed and adapted by Alison Eliel Kalmus, with musical direction by Leonardo Sciolis and choreography by Angela Nicholas. The Gala opening night performance on Friday, May 16 will be followed by a Champagne reception and light buffet. This new adaptation of The Gondoliers re-sets the action to the U.K. in 1952 and follows a company of Savoyards who plan a production of The Gondoliers for the Coronation of Queen Elizabeth II. Missing props, sets and costumes just two days before opening inject enough randomness into the proceedings that would make Noises Off seem like a quiet stroll in the garden. The cast includes Maegan Alexandria, Jenna Augen, Beatrice Barrio-Buchman, Jeff Bratz, MarLee Candell, November Christine, Karim Coleman, Elyse Cook, Matt Damone, Mickey De Lara, Ariel Downs, Sarah Fazeli, Aaron Guest, James Jaegar, Brooke Johnson, Randy Wade Kelley, John King, Kara Masek, DW McCann, Christian McClure, Nicholas Mongiardo-Cooper, Olivia O’Neill, Kenn Schmidt, Steven Silvers, John Szura, Leslie Thompson, Sunil Vernekar, Joy Weiser and Jessie Withers. Tickets: (626) 355-4318 or www.sierramadreplayhouse.org
MOTHER’S DAY: This Mother’s Day, the 16th annual Momentum Place creates a fantastical world of aerial and circus performers, dancers and musicians in Theatricum Botanicum’s rustic outdoor amphitheater. Bring your mother to honor the MOMentum in her life - always on the go for others. Now, she can sit back, relax and enjoy an uncommon afternoon of performance delights that are kid friendly and full of surprises. For an extra treat, enjoy a scrumptious brunch in Theatricum’s rustic gardens before the performance. The event is curated by Lexi Pearl and takes place on Sunday, May 11. Brunch: Noon -1:30 pm. Performance: 2 pm at Will Geer’s Theatricum Botanicum, 1419 N. Topanga Canyon Blvd., Topanga CA 90290. Tickets: (310) 455-2322 or www.theatricum.com
CONCERT READING: The Academy for New Musical Theatre will present Got Musical! 2014, featuring musical highlights from shows in development at ANMT on Tues., May 6 at the Colony Theatre. You can see excerpts from 15 brand new musicals written by up-and-coming musical theatre writers. The concert will feature highlights from City of Light by Gabrielle Wagner, Jan Roper, and Julie Weiner, Rails to Ruin by Peter Welkin, Ron Barnett, and Randi Wolfe, Roughing it with Mark Twain by Ken Stone and Jan Powell, OK in Wisconsin by Richard Castle and Matthew Levine, It Happened in Roswell by Terrence Atkins and Jeffery Lyle Segal, Smoldering by Mitch Glaser and Marc Macalintal, and The Max Factor Factor by Adrian Bewley, Joseph Blodgett, and Chana Wise.

 Also featured will be selections from the New Voices Project winners by writers under the age of 26. These include 6 by Zach Zadek, Canterbury Tales by Danny Bernstein, and Another Happy Ending by Santino DeAngelo. The cast will feature Academy Repertory Company members Sari Rose Barron, Elise Dewsberry, Scott Guy, Evelyn Halus, David Holmes, Andrea Press, Tedd Szeto, and Peter Welkin, with guest artists Jordan Kai Burnett, Randy Guiaya, Justin Jones, Ryan Ruge, Christina Valo, Gabrielle Wagner; and members of the 4x10 Showcase Company. Ron Barnett at the piano. www.anmt.org

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Tuesday, March 11, 2014

Review: Battledrum’s Drummer Boys Bond Over Battle

L-R: James Simenc, David Crane and Donzell Lewis
Photos by Gina Long
The shining moment in this 70-minute Civil War musical comes in the final scene when the entire cast executes Ameenah Kaplan’s dramatic drum choreography with exciting precision. It’s a thrilling conclusion to an otherwise plodding musical by Doug Cooney (book & lyrics) and Lee Ahlin (music).

 Battledrum is the story of three boys whose only option during wartime is to become a drummer in the Union Army. Lead drummer, Jackson (David Crane), has been sold into service by his poor family. Rufus (James Simenc), orphaned when the Northerners burn down his home in Kentucky, is enlisted as second-drummer-on-reserve by Captain Wilkes (Will Cespedes), much to the chagrin of Jackson, a smug, self-satisfied young man who is secretly scared to death.

 Neither boy has much respect for the other but time and circumstances eventually help the two find common ground, with a little input from third-drummer-on-reserve, George Washington (Donzell Lewis), a runaway slave lost from the Underground Railroad. Though Washington won’t “fight another man’s battle,” when the Captain learns he can read and write, he is promptly signed up. As they advance to the final skirmish, each young man must overcome his fears and summon the courage to survive.

 In theory, it is a terrific subject. The historical aspect of the Civil War drummer boys hasn’t been explored until now and they are a fascinating part of our history. Many were only children when they were recruited to serve as the communication system between officers and their troops on the battlefield. Unfortunately, because of their important role, they also became a moving target, with many young boys ending up dead far too soon.

 Such a story would seem to be a sure-fire winner, but opening night’s early curtain (7pm) seemed to catch everyone off guard, including the staff, causing a delay of more than twenty minutes before the cast finally took the stage. By that time, energy was flagging and resulted in missed entrances and sluggish pacing that only served to highlight the lack of urgency in Cooney’s book and Christian Lebano’s direction. Only in the final few minutes does the plot advance into more dangerous territory and tension start to build, but by then it’s almost too late to feel the fire this war musical attempts to capture.

 Not that it isn’t without charm. Crane has some nice comic moments during “Everybody Hates the Drummer Boy” and when Simenc finally stops brooding he reaches a deeper emotional layer the story so desperately needs. Cespedes’s Captain Wilkes is strong yet fatherly toward the boys and Alexandra Wright’s haunting portrayal of the mentally fragile Annabelle is one of the most wonderfully unpredictable scenes in Cooney’s otherwise prosaic book.

 Musically, the show needs a richer sound to carry it through the emotional changes. Solo piano accompaniment from backstage creates little atmospheric color and provides only minimal support to singers whose abilities are not always up to the task.

 Scenic designer John Vertrees’ makes an impact with side-by-side Stars & Stripes and Confederate distressed flags hovering over the stage and a rural set that makes good use of its small space. Elizabeth Nankin’s historical uniforms and bedraggled Southern Belle gown add a sobering level of authenticity to the period design.

L-R: Will Cespedes, Donzell Lewis, James Simenc and David Crane

 
Left: James Simenc and Tara Bopp
Right: Alexandra Wright and David Crane 

L-R: Will Cespedes and David Crane

Battledrum is double-cast: At this performance (The “Gettysburg” cast): Joseph Ahern, David Crane, Will Cespedes, DJ Harner, Donzell Lewis, James Simenc and Alexandra Wright.

 The “Vicksburg” cast includes Tara Bopp, Will Cespedes, Chris Clower, Kaitlin Cournelle, Patrick Curry, Mark Ostrander and Damone Williams. 

BATTLEDRUM
March 7 - April 19,  2014
Sierra Madre Playhouse
87 W. Sierra Madre Blvd., Sierra Madre, CA 91024
Tickets: (626) 355-4318 or
www.sierramadreplayhouse.org

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Tuesday, February 25, 2014

Musical News for Tuesday, February 25, 2014


Musical Theatre West has announced its 2014-2015 “Big Broadway” season of shows. Season tickets are available now by calling (562) 856-1999 x 4 or online at www.musical.org. The season will include:

 BIG FISH (first production since its Broadway debut)
Oct. 31 – Nov. 16, 2014
Book by John August, Music and Lyrics by Andrew Lippa
Based on the film by Tim Burton
Featuring the original Broadway sets and costumes

 SOUTH PACIFIC
Feb. 12 – March 1, 2015
Music by Richard Rodgers, Lyrics by Oscar Hammerstein
Book by Oscar Hammerstein and Joshua Logan

 LES MISÉRABLES
April 10 – 26, 2015
Music by Claude-Michel Schönberg, Lyrics by Herbert Kretzmer
Book by Alain Boublil and Claude-Michel Schönberg

 SINGIN’ IN THE RAIN
July 10 –26, 2015
Based on the MGM Film with
Choreography by Stanley Donen and Gene Kelly

 The new revue Wild Songs and Naked Souls (an evening of music and poetic license) will have its world premiere at T.U. Studios in North Hollywood March 1 – April 6 (opening night Sat. March 8th at 8:00 pm). Gloria Gifford directs the production which features the writings of Elizabeth Barrett Browning, Robert Browning, Napoleon Bonaparte, George Sand, Isadora Duncan, Lord Byron, Omar Khayyam, Sei Shonagon and Wanda Gag, with music by John Scott and Gloria Gifford. It is produced by Jamaica Moon Productions and The GGC Players. Wild Things features dramatic interpretations of classic musings on love and life from great writers and poets of the past few centuries, along with some songs. It’s an evening of romance and fun, and despite the title, there’s no nudity involved…only the emotions are naked here. The cast includes Lauren Plaxco, Chad Doreck, Jade Warner and Bill Stevenson, as well as a revolving cast of other members of the GGC Players. Tickets: (310) 366-5505 or www.tix.com.

 The Torrance Theatre Company will present A Man of No Importance written by Terrence McNally, with music by Stephen Flaherty and lyrics by Lynn Ahrens, Mar 14 – Apr 12, directed by Glenn Kelman. Musical direction is by Jared Scott. A Man of No Importance tells the story of Alfie Byrne, a bus driver in 1964 Dublin, whose heart holds secrets he can’t share with anyone but his imagined confidante, Oscar Wilde. When Alfie attempts to put on an amateur production of Wilde’s Salome in the local church hall, he must confront the forces of bigotry, shame, and the fears of others. It is a tender and beautifully woven tale of love, friendship, and coming to terms with who we are. There will be a Q&A session following the April 10th performance with the cast following the show. Tickets: (424) 243-6882 or www.torrancetheatrecompany.com
The upcoming west coast premiere of the new musical Battledrum at Sierra Madre Playhouse will feature a double cast. The “Gettysburg” cast includes Joseph Ahern, David Crane, Will Cespedes, DJ Harner, Donzell Lewis, James Simenc and Alexandra Wright. The “Vicksburg” cast includes Tara Bopp, Will Cespedes, Chris Clower, Kaitlin Cournelle, Patrick Curry, Mark Ostrander and Damone Williams. Drum master and choreographer is Ovation Award winner Ameenah Kaplan. Performances place March 7 – April 19 at Sierra Madre Playhouse with gala opening nights on Fri., March 7 and Sat., March 8 at 7:00 pm. Book & lyrics are by Doug Cooney and music is by Lee Ahlin. Battledrum is directed by Christian Lebano. Each performance will include a post-show talk led by a historian on California’s role in the Civil War and featured actors from the show. www.sierramadreplayhouse.org

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Saturday, January 18, 2014

Musical News for Saturday, January 18, 2014

MUSICALS: The Festival of New American Musicals will present a reading of Going Hollywood on Jan. 22 & 23 starring Vicki Lewis, Adam Wylie, Anneliese Van Der Pol, and Tim Martin Gleason. Going Hollywood is a jolly, hilarious and very musical version of the brilliant Kaufman and Hart comedy, Once in a Lifetime, featuring book by Joe Leonardo & David Zippel, lyrics by David Zippel, and music by Jonathan Sheffer. The reading will be directed by Joe Leonardo, with musical direction by Gerald Sternbach. To reserve FREE tickets, email info@lafestival.org with date you’d like to attend (January 22nd or 23rd) and the name(s) of each person in your party. You will receive an email confirmation. Showtime is 7:30 pm at Barnsdall Gallery Theatre 4800 Hollywood Blvd. LA 90027. (2 blocks West of Vermont Ave.) www.lafestival.org.
A one-night-only concert performance of Tonya & Nancy: The Rock Opera has been set for Tuesday, February 4 at 8:00 pm at Hollywood’s legendary King King Club. The concert will take place just a few days before the start of the 2014 Olympics, which is also the 20th anniversary of the lead pipe assault heard ‘round the world and their subsequent skate-off at the 1994 Winter Olympics. The librettist is Elizabeth Searle and music is by Michael Teoli. The concert version of Tonya & Nancy: The Rock Opera will be choreographed and directed by NAACP and Ovation Award-winner Janet Roston. Proceeds from the evening will go to support Celebration Theatre. 

 This high energy and darkly comic show takes the audience on a wild, hilarious, and insightful ride. The true over-the-top tale contains operatic themes with twists so outrageous they seem invented as the piece explores our celebrity-crazed-society, the public’s hunger for salacious scandal, and the media’s drive for tabloid fodder. The concert staging will include a full rock band, vocals, and visuals and star Michael Ballestero, Jordan Kai Burnett, Sarah Chaney, Joe Donohoe, Michael Shaw Fisher, Maegan McConnell, Jesse Merlin, Suzanne Petrela, Michael Shepperd, Jeff Sumner, and Laura L. Thomas. Tickets are $20 in advance and $25 on the day of the show. Doors open at 7pm for bar service. A live DJ will be spinning before and after the performance. The King King Club is located at 6555 Hollywood Blvd in Hollywood, 90028. Tickets are on sale now and may be purchased online at www.celebrationtheatre.com or by phone at (323) 960-9234.

The west coast premiere of the new musical Battledrum will take place March 7 – April 19 at Sierra Madre Playhouse. Gala opening nights are Fri., March 7 and Sat., March 8 at 7:00 pm and include a champagne reception. Set during the Civil War, Battledrum depicts the stories of three drummer boys serving in the Union Army. There’s Rufus, a Kentucky war orphan recruited after his home has been burned to the ground; Jackson, bound into service by his parents; and George Washington, a runaway slave who got lost on the path of the Underground Railroad. Drummer boys were pivotal to the conduct of a skirmish, but the three lads are nonetheless youths, thrown into the heat of the bloodiest conflict ever conducted on American soil. Battledrum embraces an important segment of American history, a traumatic chapter when courage, brotherhood and patriotism could keep you alive.

 Book & lyrics are by Doug Cooney and music is by Lee Ahlin. Battledrum is directed by Christian Lebano and is double-cast. The company includes Joseph Ahearn, Tara Bopp, Will Cespedes, Kaitlin Cornuelle, Patrick Dillon Curry, DJ Harner, Jon Monastero, Mark Ostrander and Alexandra Wright. Each performance will include a post-show talk led by a historian on California’s role in the Civil War and featured actors from the show. Sierra Madre Playhouse, 87 W. Sierra Madre Blvd., Sierra Madre, CA 91024. www.sierramadreplayhouse.org
GENE KELLY: The Pasadena Playhouse Theatre is pleased to present Gene Kelly: The Legacy, An Evening with Patricia Ward Kelly for two performances only – Saturday, March 1 at 8:00 pm and Sunday, March 2 at 2:00 pm. During a unique evening, Patricia Ward Kelly - his widow, biographer and the person who knew him best - presents an intimate portrait of this dynamic and innovative artist who created some of the most memorable and iconic scenes in film history. Patricia Kelly’s compelling presentation combines rare and familiar film clips, previously unreleased audio recordings, personal memorabilia, and insights culled from her hours of interviews and conversations with her husband. Tickets are priced from $15 - $70. Also, available is a VIP ticket which includes a Preshow Meet & Greet with Mrs. Kelly and a reception for $150.00. For tickets call (626) 356-7529 or go to www.PasadenaPlayhouse.org. Pasadena Playhouse is located at 39 South El Molino Avenue, Pasadena, CA 91101.

 WIN TICKETS: The Book of Mormon is giving you an opportunity to win a pair of tickets to the show by participating in a social media scavenger hunt on Saturday Jan 18 from 10:00 am – 4:00 pm PST. They will be sharing clues on Facebook, Twitter and Instragram teasing the locations of hidden doorbells around Los Angeles. To play along, follow The Book of Mormon on Twitter (@BookOfMormon), Instagram (TheBookOfMormon) or Facebook (TheBookOfMormonOnBroadway) and the hashtag #BOMHunt. One entry is allowed per person. Winners must show valid ID at The Pantages box office.
AUDITIONS: Director/choreographer Miriam Durrie-Kirsch is having another day of auditions for the role of JIMMY in Conejo Players Theatre’s upcoming production of Thoroughly Modern Millie. You don’t even need to prepare a song (although having a selection in your back pocket is always a good idea). Just head over to Conejo Players on Sunday, Jan. 19 at 10:00 am. You’ll learn some of Jimmy’s music, as well as a short dance combo. Come ready to move, or bring a change of clothing. There may also be some cold reading from the script. Character description: Jimmy Smith: (Male mid 20s-40s) Self-assured, quick-witted, and charming with a good sense of comedic timing. Tenor with solid high A. Good mover; dancer a plus. www.conejoplayers.org
CABARET/CONCERTS: Ryan O’Connor and Musical Mondays Los Angeles have announced the upcoming appearance of Broadway’s Eden Espinosa (Wicked, Brooklyn, Rent) in a Free performance at Eleven Nightclub in West Hollywood on Monday, January 20 at 10:00 pm. Espinosa is making appearances throughout the U.S. to celebrate the release of her award winning debut solo album , Look Around, now available on iTunes, Amazon, Cd Baby, and www.EdenEspinosa.com. Eleven Nightclub is located at 8811 Santa Monica Blvd, West Hollywood, CA 90069. For more info visit www.eleven.la

Upcoming concerts at the Grove Theatre in Upland include legendary Grammy Award winner Bryan Duncan, on February 1 at 7:00 pm. Duncan brings his powerful voice and charming humor to a family-friendly concert featuring classic hits like “Maybe I’m Amazed” and “Love You With My Life” along with new songs like “I See You.” Then on February 8, R&B singer Virgil Gibson headlines Remember the Magic, a concert that brings back the great sounds of the doo-wop era featuring tunes like “Only You,” “Up On The Roof,” “In The Still Of The Night,” “You Send Me,” “My Girl,” “Smoke Gets In Your Eyes” and many more. http://grovetheatre.com/

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Thursday, November 7, 2013

Musical News for Thursday, November 7, 2013

OPENINGS:  Falcon Theatre is proud to present Troubadour Theater Company’s Walkin’ in a Winter One-Hit-Wonderland, directed by Matt Walker, as its holiday production Dec. 4 – Jan. 19, with opening night set for Friday, Dec. 13. This holiday cabaret “clip show” will feature one of the Troubies’ most beloved characters, Winter Warlock, who takes a walk down memory lane while crooning some chart-topping “one-hit-wonders” with his holiday friends. ‘Tis the season for fun and reflection, so head on down to the Falcon to hear the incredible story of the tallest Troubie this side of town. Tickets go on sale Nov. 13. Call (818) 955-8101 or go to www.FalconTheatre.com.
Laguna Playhouse has announced the cast and creative team for A Christmas Memory, featuring book by Duane Poole, music by Larry Grossman, lyrics by Carol Hall, musical direction by Darryl Archibald and directed by Ovation Award-winner Nick DeGruccio. The cast will feature Tracy Lore, Ciaran McCarthy, Ton Shelton, Wills Spangler, Marsha Waterbury and Siena Yusi, with Pickle as “Queenie” the Dog. The design team includes D. Martyn Bookwalter (scenic design), Steven Young (lighting design), Bruce Goodrich (costume design), Phil Allen (sound design), and Don Hill (production stage manager).

 A Christmas Memory is a tender portrait of a rare friendship across the generations with a musical score that will bring love and light to everyone’s hearts for the holiday season.  Set in 1933 in rural Alabama, young Buddy is being raised by three eccentric cousins. He is closest to his elderly cousin Sook, still a child herself in many ways, and as Christmas nears, she and Buddy gather ingredients to bake holiday fruitcakes for those who've had a memorable impact on their lives in the past year. Sook’s sister Jennie is concerned that the time Buddy spends with Sook will cause him to grow up soft. Enlisting the aid of their bachelor-brother Seabon, she plots to separate the best friends for their own good. The show runs Dec 29 with opening night set for Saturday, Dec. 7 at 7:30 pm. www.lagunaplayhouse.com

A Christmas Carol adapted, directed and choreographed by Christina Harris opens at Sierra Madre Playhouse Nov. 29 and will run through Dec. 23. According to Ms. Harris, new touches for this year’s production include “costumes in a muted pallet that more closely resemble that of Dickensian clothing, vs. bright colorful costumes of the past. The set is no longer the faux backdrop of a Dickens street, but rather a manipulated space to create atmosphere that has an implied and whimsical feel to it. The sound, by John Zalewski, an extremely prolific sound designer, will create a whole new score to the show to enhance the story. The heart of the story is still there, peppered with wonderful music sung by our cast - but I have added a couple of new scenes, including one in which we meet Scrooge’s father to give us a clearer picture of who Scrooge was and how he became so hard.” 

 The cast includes Jolie Adamson, Anthony Bravo, Andrew Byer, MarLee Candell, Cadence Cole, Melody Cole, Jessie Ellico Franks, Georgan George, Mary Harmon, Scott Harris, Matthew Herrmann, Ranya Jaber, Zayd Jaber, Randy Wade Kelley, Kelly Kitko, Alison Lani, Amelia Maschek, Karl Maschek, Lisa Musser, Hector S. Quintana, Dale Sandlin, Olivia Schlueter-Corey and Tim Stafford. A gala champagne reception and light buffet follows the Friday, Nov. 29 performance. Tickets: (626) 355-4318 or www.sierramadreplayhouse.org

AUDITIONS: Performance Riverside is holding auditions for SPAMALOT directed by Gary Krinkle, Dec. 8 & 9 at 7pm in Tech 107 on the RCC City Campus in Riverside. Lovingly ripped off the classic film comedy Monty Python and the Holy Grail, Spamalot re-tells the legend of King Arthur and his Knights of the Round Table and features a bevy of beautiful show girls, cows, killer rabbits and French people. Did we mention the bevy of beautiful show girls? AEA Contract Tier 2 Guest Artist plus pay for non-union TBD. Rehearsals are Jan. 12 – Feb 16, 2014 in Riverside and the show opens Feb. 7. For a complete breakdown of roles go to www.performanceriverside.org. For more information call (951) 222-8399.
Cabrillo Music Theatre in Thousand Oaks is holding auditions for In the Heights, featuring the original Tony Award-winning choreography of Andy Blankenbuehler, recreated by the show’s dance captain, Morgan Marcell, who will also direct the production. Darryl Archibald will musical direct and lead the Cabrillo Music Theatre Orchestra. The production will be supervised by Cabrillo’s artistic director, Lewis Wilkenfeld. 

 In the Heights runs March 28 – April 6, 2014. Rehearsals begin February 17 for non-Equity performers, and March 3 for Equity performers. All roles are open, and all roles are open to Non-Equity talent. 3 Equity contracts are still available, to be cast from among the following roles: Usnavi, Nina, Kevin, Camilla, Abuela Claudia, and Daniela. There is pay for all roles for age 18 and up. Although they encourage all ethnicities to attend the auditions, they are looking for actors who can play Latino. The look is specific for this show, and will be a consideration during casting.

 Cast limited to age 16 and above. Please bring picture and resume, and sheet music in the proper key, accompanist provided. Music in the style of show is strongly encouraged. No recorded music or a capella, please. Non-union please limit song to one minute. Note: Those auditioning for Graffiti Pete and ensemble dancers should attend a dance call, rather than a singing appointment. Dates:

 Thousand Oaks Auditions
Hillcrest Center for the Arts, 403 W. Hillcrest, Thousand Oaks, CA 91360
Principal and Singing Appointments:
Sunday, Nov. 10 – 1:00 -5:00 pm
Tuesday, Nov. 12 – 4:00 -11:00 pm
Dancers’ Call for all dance roles:  
Sunday, Nov. 10 – 6:00 pm

 Los Angeles Auditions 
Madilyn Clark Studios, 10852 Burbank Blvd., N. Hollywood, CA 91601 
A.E.A. Principal Appointments:
Monday, Nov. 11 – 10:15 am -1:00 pm
Dancers’ Call for all dance roles:
Monday, Nov. 11 at 2:30 pm

 All roles are open. All auditions are by appointment only. To schedule an audition, please call (805) 497-8614 x 3. When leaving a message, please include your name, role(s) for which you’d like to be considered, telephone number, and whether or not you’re a member of Actors’ Equity Assn. Please also leave your preferred date/time for audition.  Callbacks to take place on November 14, 18, & 19, and are by invitation only. Click here for complete breakdown of roles and information about an audition-preparatory Master Class, given by Morgan Marcell. 

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