Midtown Utopia

Desert Life

2010-04-01T01:14:00.003-04:00

I am acknowledging my severe lack of updates.

Yes, I have been away. Graduating, saying bye to the east coast, and moving back to the land of the desert has given me plentiful moments to reflect on the past couple of years. What I have learned from my time at school and living in NYC can never be measured. What I do know is how grateful I am for those experiences. I guess before I headed out east, when I was younger, I thought I would be moving to NYC, ready to unpack my bags (once again), and just try. But things change, and ideas change, priorities change.

Which leads me to where I am at the moment. I knew coming back to Arizona would be two things; both equally different. Exciting and terrifying.

My essay that I wrote more than three years ago to get into Hartt is why I am back in Phoenix. I always stated that I wanted to learn all that I could, gain that experience, and move home to showcase my knowledge. And I plan to do just that. The arts matter to me. I have been lucky to have been immersed in this field and I see the affect it has on people, on the community. I am ready to begin my career in the desert. So I'm starting with my first local internship, Arizona Commission on the Arts. And I'm learning.

AMERICAN IDIOT at Berkeley Rep

2009-10-11T19:41:00.005-04:00

There's several ways I could open this entry on Berkeley Rep's American Idiot but I'm having a hard time choosing. So let's try it this way: Tony Vincent wore glitter eyeshadow, Matt Caplan flew through the air and John Gallagher Jr. wore a plaid shirt. I say: home run. On a less campy note, Green Day's rock opera, which opened in September and has been extended until November 15th, is an extraordinary piece of theatre.

Following a group of friends, Johnny (Gallagher), Tunny (Caplan) and Will (Michael Esper), the young boys of American want to leave Jingletown for an adventure, away from their listlessly mundane lives. Johnny and Tunny leave without Will, whose girlfriend has found out she's expecting, and proceed to go out on their "Holiday". Tunny is persuaded to join the army after viewing a visually stunning advertisement ("Favorite Son"), while Johnny meets his savior in drugs, St. Jimmy (Tony Vincent). When he meets Whatshername (at this performance it was Morgan Weed), he dives deeper into the the realm of drugs. While St. Jimmy provides this newest escape for Johnny and Whatshername, Tunny is sent off to war, injured and meets his "extraordinary girl". This song, provides one of the most exciting staging of the play, both Caplan and Christina Sajous, are suspended in the air, maneuvering high above the Roda Theatre while singing the song. After a coming of senses, and a homecoming of sorts, the three boys of Jingletown come back from their extraordinary adventure.

Almost completely a sing-through style of musical, American Idiot, proves that the rock opera is not dead. The 90 minute show, without an intermission, with direction by Spring Awakening director Michael Mayer, was 90 minutes of captivating direction, choreography, musical direction and arrangement, and a thrilling set design.

Taking in my surrounding of Berkeley Rep, I was in awe of how beautiful their facility was. With an annual budget of 11 million (according to TCG), they utilize and take great pride in their property. The courtyard off to the side of the theatre provided a great gathering place for patrons to enjoy a pre-show drink (with heated tables) and a post-show conversation ground with fellow audience members and the cast.

Now let's talk audience: two different types at Friday's evening performance. The older, who seemed to be subscribers, were seen either bobbing their heads along or showing extreme quizzical expressions as to what was happening on stage. While, the music is over powering some times, it can be hard to hear the lyrics, I was surprised by how many of the older audience members seemed to be enjoying the performance. Now, the younger crowd seemed to be there in support of Green Day (many wore the band's t-shirt) and the cast. The responses from this generation were extremely vocal throughout the performance, some even raising their arms in the air in favor of what they were seeing on stage.

So what's next. With Berkeley Rep extending the run twice, where is life after California? Will this show have an audience on Broadway. I think most definitely yes but what is most important is will this show have a theatre to call it home. With the onslaught of new shows opening this fall, will there be a theatre open in the spring and will that theatre want American Idiot to occupy it?

If this cast transfers, along with every ounce of this production, it should settle in nicely on the east coast. With reminiscence of Hair, Spring Awakening and Rent, American Idiot has the opportunity to become the latest Broadway smash.

Tony Vincent and me post-show. So good to see him on stage again!

Run This Tour

2009-10-08T18:25:00.002-04:00

While in my Entertainment Law class, I stumbled on Facebook (what, like you've never done that before?) and found the latest into the Usnavi YouTube video series. And oh boy, ladies and gentlemen is a hot one.

I think we all know my excitement for this tour and to see the new cast along with Lin, Robin and Karen passing the torch to the new community - hot hot. No other words. Watch.

ROOMS - cast recording release party

2009-10-07T18:46:00.004-04:00

This is me excited.

Finally, the Off-Broadway show that I fell for last spring will have its cast recording released! The question is when will it be released. As for now, it's still TBA but there will be a listening party next week. Makes me wish I was still in the city to attend. Anyway, here the details for anyone who wants to attend.

Join us at:
Sweet Caroline's
322 West 45th Street
(between 8th and 9th Ave)
New York, NY 10036

Wednesday, Oct 14th, 2009 at 8:30 pm

Go to http://www.nymf.org/Show-1240.html to purchase tickets

$15.00 + one drink minimum

This special event is presented by the New York Musical Theatre Festival and Van Hill Entertainment.
Cast album coming soon on Time Life Records.

ps - I really dig the album art.

source: my email

AFTERMATH at New York Theatre Workshop

2009-10-06T15:41:00.009-04:00

Now playing at New York Theatre Workshop is the docu-drama Aftermath, which tells the story of Iraqi refugees who have relocated to Jordan after they experience the American occupation in their homeland. With each character taking turns to tell their story, the audience is is taken through a journey to which we try to comprehend what we are hearing.

It's one thing to hear media reports on the progress of the war in Iraq, which began in 2003 but to then hear the actual stories of real individuals, is another thing. Playwrights Jessica Blank and Erik Jensen, traveled to Jordan and interviewed over 30 individuals. These interviews all seemed to have a similar story. They all love their country and are proud to be an Iraqi but with the tragedies that surrounded them, in one way or another, they were forced to leave, and in some cases flee, to take refuge outside Iraq.

A dermatologist, an imam, a pharmacist, a painter, a theatre director, a mother and her newborn, and a wife and husband tell their individual stories about how the American occupation changed their lives. With the translator, Shahid, some of these stories are so heartbreaking and seemingly unreal, it's hard not to want to tune out and look away. But you can't. With minimal staging and the set only occupied by six chairs and several benches, these actors are speaking directly to the audience. We are the ones they want to hear their stories.

With the outstanding actors speaking directly to us, it was no wonder that at several moments throughout the play, not a sound could be heard from the audience. Every word spoken throughout this play was taken in by the ears of the audience who leaned forward in their seats as if that could help try to comprehend these traumatic stories.

Towards the end, Fadilah, the painter and wife of the theatre director says, "Truth is always threatened." What New York Theatre Workshop and the playwrights presented with Aftermath, is a tale unwarrantably true. At the post performance discussion, a public program presented by NYTW, patrons stayed to discuss their feelings on what they just saw. Several wanted to know how they can do more to help the refugees. Moderator Mark Crispin Miller, suggested donating to the IRC and getting as many people as possible to see this play. To be aware, word of mouth. I once again, was one of the youngest people in the audience and I hope my generation isn't lost to this. Awareness of the global community is poignant when striving for what is best for each other. So with this, I urge anyone reading this, you, you and you, to head down to New York Theatre Workshop, to see this play. If you're a student and price is a factor, be aware that for $20 you can get a ticket. Aftermath plays until October 18th.

For more information go to NYTW's website at http://www.nytw.org
To read another review go to http://theater2.nytimes.com/2009/09/16/theater/reviews/16after.html?scp=2&sq=aftermath&st=cse

The Orphans' Home Cycle Part 2: The Story of a Marriage

2009-10-06T14:04:00.005-04:00

Horace finally gets some love!

I was able to see Part 2 of Hartford Stage's World Premiere Theatrical Event The Orphan's Home Cycle last week with my friend Jared Weber. After the development of Horace's life in Part 1, I was more than ready to see Horace Robedaux, the central character who we see grow from a young boy into an adult, have something go his way. Part 2, The Story of a Marriage, shows Horace forming an attachment with a widowed mother of two but as Horace's luck would have it, his love is not reciprocated.

Then he meets Elizabeth. And finally, something goes his way. Sort of. Her father disapproves of the match but the young couple move out on their own. The struggle for Horace is not only to find approval from Elizabeth's dad but to be able to show support for his young bride and their child-to-be. Act 3 brings a pivotal scene in which Horace tells Elizabeth how he has always felt like an orphan his whole life and finally, with her, he finally feels a part of a family. Bill Heck, portrays Horace with an urgency to portray this brokenhearted character but with an ease that is so overwhelming, you can't help but only hope for the best.

What I love most about this production, beside the story and acting, is the music that walks hand in hand with the play. Each act opens with the glorious original music by John Gromada, that creates a real environment, as if we stepped right off the train into the heart of these characters.

Here's an excerpt I found online of a music session from the play. Enjoy.

I look forward to see the last Part of this event. Oh Horace, I only wish you the best.

In The Heights tour - Wepa!

2009-09-26T19:14:00.004-04:00

The carnaval is moving out of the barrio.

The cast of the IN THE HEIGHTS tour was announced this week, with some familiar names along with many new faces. Kyle Beltran will play Usnavi, the narrator of the Washington Heights musical. Along with him will be Daniel Bolero (Kevin), Rogelio Douglas Jr. (Benny), Yvette Gonzalez-Nacer (Vanessa), Arielle Jacobs (Nina), Jose-Luis Lopez (Graffiti Pete), Genny Lis Padilla (Carla), Isabel Santiago (Daniela), Elise Santora (Abuela Claudia), Shaun Taylor-Corbett (Sonny) and Natalie Toro (Camila).

The tour will start October 27th at the Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center and will tour the nation for the next year. This includes a stop at my beloved Gammage Auditorium in June 2010. Let me be the first to say welcome to Tempe ITH and how I hope audiences in my hometown will embrace this show as much as I have my family has over the past year and a half. Also: how snazzy is the ammage website looking lately? Nice. (http://www.asugammage.com/shows/2009-10-broadway-season/in-the-heights)

I'm really enjoying how interactive they are making this tour, in terms of their website. They have a map of the U.S. with the tour stops listed and when the tour starts, fans can upload their photos to the map at the appropriate stop, to create a mega fan gallery.

Did I mention how I excited I am for this tour and how I can not wait for it to become even more loved and embraced across the nation.

http://www.intheheightsthemusical.com/map.html

http://www.playbill.com/news/article/133239-Beltran_Is_Usnavi_in_Heights_Tour_Toro_Jacobs_Santora_and_More_Announced

Showtime & Spielberg team up for a Scripted Broadway series

2009-09-26T17:55:00.001-04:00

The cable network Showtime and Hollywood director and producer Steven Spielberg are teaming up to create a scripted series that will follow the life of a Broadway show. It will start in the infancy phases all the way through its opening night. Well known composers Marc Shaiman and Scott Wittman, known for their Broadway hit Hairspray are in negotiations to work on the project. According to the article on Variety.com, Spielberg has been developing this series for years and finds that Showtime would be the ideal fit for the show, considering one of the executive directors, Robert Greenblatt, was a recent producer of the Broadway musical 9 to 5.

The show will include every aspect of developing a new show on Broadway, which includes following the actors’ lives who are in the show as well as recruiting investors and creating the songs. The creative team hopes for several seasons of this untitled project to air but this causes some concern because it can be deemed as overambitious. But with the recent success of the Fox network’s show Glee, I don’t believe it should have any trouble gaining viewers. With Glee currently ruling Wednesday nights, I think people are hungry for more scripted performance based shows, especially if they include humor and have some heart.

My hope is that this show will include realistic depictions of the hard work that goes into mounting a Broadway show which are truthful to its audience. Hopefully this will be the case and with that the audience will learn that Broadway is more than just the performance they see on a Saturday evening.

http://www.variety.com/article/VR1118008994.html?categoryid=14&cs=1

I'm sorry, what?

2009-09-23T19:06:00.007-04:00

Normally, I would gloss over any news about another stage adaption of a popular movie but this one caught my eye - not because of what movie it is but because who is involved.

I remember having a good time when I saw the movie "Bring It On" back in 2000 when I was a freshman in high school, almost ten years later, it is being turned into a musical with a lot of big names attached.

My nerdy Latin love (did you guys see him on House??) Lin-Manuel Miranda will be writing the score with Tom Kitt (Broadway's other 'it' boy), with lyrics by "High Fidelity"'s Amanda Green. My favorite curly haired In The Heights orchestrator Alex Lacamoire will serve as music supervisor and arranger. Oh, and also to perfect the Heights trifecta, Andy Blankenbuehler will direct and choreograph.

The press release states :

In a statement Blankenbuehler said, "The explosive world of cheerleading heightens so naturally to the stage. I can't imagine a more perfect team to bring this musical to life on stage. Jeff Whitty has come up with an enticing original story, and Lin-Manuel Miranda and Tom Kitt, two of Broadway's most talented composers, are joining their amazing creative forces to write the score. With Amanda Green collaborating on lyrics and musical supervision by Alex Lacamoire, this team is a director and choreographer's dream."

The explosive world of cheerleading? I'm sorry, I guess I was too busy sitting on the bleachers to care too much about the explosive world of cheerleading. But I digress, this movie is a huge fixture in pop culture (but not as big as "Mean Girls" - oh hey, there's an idea for a musical I'd be willing to see! Can you imagine a fierce, oh sorry I mean, fetch solo by Gretchen Wieners about how she can't wear the silver hoops she received from her parents?? Pure art!) Anyway, what is the need for this musical in the theatre world? What need do we as theatre lovers, audience members have for this type of show? Surely there will be some who think this could be exciting to see a version of the movie on stage ("Legally Blonde", anyone?), but why? What is the need? What is the creative need to bring "Bring It On: The Musical" to life when there are certainly more important stories to be told? Or are cheerleaders getting the short end of the spirit stick in this debate.

Also according to the press release, this will not immediately, or at all come to Broadway but will first be a regional production and then tour.

Now excuse me, while I sip on my glass of Haterade.

source: http://www.playbill.com/news/article/132992-Blankenbuehler_Whitty_Miranda_Kitt_Green_and_Lacamoire_Creating_Bring_It_On_The_Musical

Welcome Home Orphan Child!

2009-09-13T18:09:00.003-04:00

I had the great pleasure of seeing the first part of the world premiere theatrical event of Horton Foote's THE ORPHAN'S HOME CYCLE at Hartford Stage.

Part 1 titled "The Story of a Childhood introduces us to Horace, a young boy who's father has just passed and his mother and younger sister move to Houston without him. Within Part 1, there are three acts, each with its own story to tell (each act lasts around an hour) while following the story of Horace.

Horace, throughout his life, has been neglected by his own family and struggles to make amends with the family he so desperately wants to be a part of. While this play in its first part was almost three hours long, I never strayed away from the material but with enthusiasm as I couldn't wait to see what happened next. As Part 1 concluded I couldn't help but wish I was at the marathon showing (where they perform all 3 parts - all 9 acts!). The pacing is really well done, as is the costumes and the use of the set (fascinating revolving panels that hide and then exchange young to older Horace in the beginning of the play).

The last two Parts will be presented at Hartford Stage in the coming weeks and after that, it will make it's way to Signature Theatre in NYC this November. I for one, can't wait to see the rest of the cycle - a big thanks to Jared Weber for letting me tag along.

For more information:
http://www.hartfordstage.org/ohc

Finally! Casting announced on American Idiot

2009-08-03T21:12:00.002-04:00

Tony Award-winning actor John Gallagher, Jr., will reunite with his Tony-winning director from Spring Awakening to star in Berkeley Repertory Theatre's world premiere of American Idiot, the musical drawn from the Grammy Award-winning neo-punk album by Green Day.

Casting for the project, co-conceived by Mayer and Green Day frontman Billie Joe Armstrong, was announced by Berkeley Rep in California, where the show will start previews Sept. 4 for a run to Oct. 11.

Gallagher (who won a Best Featured Actor Tony for his work as Moritz in Spring Awakening) will play Johnny, leading an ensemble of 19 young performers that also features Matt Caplan as Tunny, Michael Esper as Will, and Tony Vincent as St. Jimmy with Mary Faber as Heather, Rebecca Naomi Jones as Whatsername, and Christina Sajous as Extraordinary Girl.

Why yes - I will be attending. I wouldn't miss this for the whole. Some of my favorite performers in the same show, I'm hoping for the best.

http://www.playbill.com/news/article/131618-Gallagher_Faber_Caplan_Esper_Vincent_and_More_Will_Bring_American_Idiot_to_Life

My parents came to town...

2009-07-15T16:11:00.005-04:00

And we saw two shows WEST SIDE STORY and THE FANTASTICKS. WSS, oh WSS, I really wanted to like you. I tried but it ended up not being mutually. Unfortunately, my parents felt the same way and noticed how lacking it felt. Although, my dad did enjoy the Spanish translations, and when I told him Lin-Manuel Miranda wrote them he said, "He did a nice job." Which in my dad way of speaking meant "grand slam".

We decided to see THE FANTASTICKS on a whim and due to a great discount from Playbill.com, we secured 3rd row center seats for our Sunday evening performance. I had never seen a production of this show, so I was absolutely thrilled to finally see it and hear "Try To Remember" in the context of the show.

So if I were to rate it, thumbs up THE FANTASTICS, thumbs down WEST SIDE STORY.

oh, he was my favorite part of the show too. and he's a mute.

Spring Awakening Tour

2009-07-15T16:04:00.002-04:00

After the morning madness that was HAIR, my lovely friend Meredith and I headed to Philadelphia where we caught the Friday evening performance of the SPRING AWAKENING tour.

Since saying adios to it back in January, it was very odd to revisit this old friend. This tour is by no means terrible. It had some really really great moments, Jake Epstein went on for the first time as Melchior, and he had some really fantastic choices, especially during the scene where he writes in his diary. I had never heard a Melchior say those lines actually as if they were writing it down. It was very very good.

But unfortunately, it seemed as if this tour has turned into a comedy routine, where the Thea goes for the radical laugh more drastically, the beating scene gets a big lulz, and I could care less about what happens at the end.

So fortunately for me, I have amazing memories of the Broadway productions to occupy my thoughts. Oh also, who ever the musical director was, he was my favorite thing about the night. Just sayin'.

Happy July!

2009-07-15T15:56:00.003-04:00

There was nothing more thrilling than waking up at 5am to attend the Good Morning America taping for HAIR. And by all means, it was so so worth it.

Epicness on 46th Street

2009-06-28T21:53:00.004-04:00

Everyone's favorite dance Jon Rua graced the Richard Rogers stage this past week twice as the lead Usnavi in IN THE HEIGHTS. I was devastated when I found out he went on Tuesday and did not know about it until Wednesday. Luckily, and I really have no idea how this happened but I was able to do the lotto on Thursday with my friend Meredith and we won! And to my utmost delight, Jon was on again as Usnavi.

It was such a fresh performance of this character in the show. I really have no other way to explain it but the youthfulness of his Usnavi and the small mannerisms between him and Robin de Jesus who plays Sonny, was so great and funny. And all Heights fans know he can dance, so to see him dance in the, how should I put this, Usnavi way, was hilarious. My favorite part of the show was during the "Finale" when he started the line, "Yeah, I'm a street light...". He attacked it like I had never heard anyone do before.

Marcus was on as Benny, and I am delighted to say that I've seen his Collins in RENT multiple times, so I'm a huge fan of his and can say his "Benny's Dispatch" was so fun, so fun. The talent of the ensemble is always so steller and I think that's why I enjoy this show so much. Every time I see it, I see something different that I hadn't caught before. It's definitely a show thats climbing higher and higher on my favorite list. And I'll keep attending.

Fourth Arts Block - FAB

2009-06-24T15:37:00.004-04:00

Since beginning my internship at NYTW, I've discovered a nook in NYC's cultural landscape. 4th street between 2nd avenue and Bowery boosts some of the most innovative and fascinating art. The Fourth Arts Blocks, aka FAB, is a non-profit organization that was established to advance the East 4th street cultural district.

Walking down this street you will notice a plethora of arts organizations who make up this vibrant street.

"FAB is working with our members to create a permanent home for the arts and to preserve the unique cultural nature of East 4th Street, which has fostered creative diversity and experimentation for more than 30 years. FAB advocates for the cultural district, its members and our neighborhood; leads centralized projects that benefit our members and provides a model for sustainable development; creates opportunities for cultural expansion; directs marketing and promotion efforts; and supports the development and capacity of our members."

and look how cute their bag is!

The site is keep up to date correlating with events being taken place on 4th street. Check it out!

https://fabnyc.org/index.php

June 20 matinee - Mary Stuart

2009-06-22T11:13:00.004-04:00

it's even raining in the theatre...

New York City has been struck with a recent downpour of rain as of late. I think I heard on the news this morning it's been something like 18 out of 22 days we've had rain. Well 8 times a week it rains inside the Broadhurst Theatre where Mary Stuart is performing.

The play centers around two queens, Mary Stuart, Queen of Scotland, and Queen Elizabeth of England. Now I'm not the biggest history buff so I was exuberantly thankful for the small historical background in the Playbill and even more in-depth on the play's website.

Deciding to take up a discount offer, the play lasted almost three hours of non stop drama. Both queens Harriet Walter and Janet McTeer were the two driving forces of the storyline pushing and twisting until the very end. Oh yeah and there's lots of rain, which makes for events look even more dramatic. I adored the fact that Janet was in one of my favorite movies Sense & Sensibility, so to see her on stage, was a thrill. Harriet was also, let's say, amazingly fierce.

So, let me tell you about the guy who decided to snore in the second to last row in the mezzanine. It was so loud I thought for sure someone from the house management would approach but thankfully after awhile it stopped. I know the play was rather straightforwarded and lack for better word, dry but all out snoring? Crazy talk!

Also, I loved the direction of the play. The actual spacing of the characters and how it looked from up above was pretty fantastic.

A Very Cool Idea

2009-06-18T20:45:00.005-04:00

Nina Rosario, a character of In The Heights, is the first in her family to go to college, across the country no less. With her move to California and the financial strain on her and her parents, she is forced to drop out of Stanford. Even with her scholarship, she still has to take two jobs to pay for the endless things college students need.

With the Graduate To New Heights scholarship, the Broadway musical In The Heights and Clear Channel NY are offering this thrilling scholarship to a deserving student. Not only is the Heights family donating $2500 to the scholarship but they are also offering some very exciting packages, where the money from the highest bid will be included in the scholarship.

Some prizes include dinner with creator and Tony-Award winner Lin-Manuel Miranda, dance lessons with Luis Salgado and even a walk-on role.

I'm hoping people will open their hearts and wallets and bid on these prizes, so that a deserving individual who is in need of the money can further their educational career.

So cheers to Heights, Lin (and I can't believe I'm saying this but) Clear Channel.

If you have someone in mind to nominate a student, starting August 27, visit any Clear Channel NY website and write in 100 words or less, why this person deserves the award. Cheers!

http://www.graduatetonewheights.com/pages/home.html

A Be-In!

2009-06-18T20:37:00.003-04:00

After the Tuesday 7pm performance HAIR will have a "be-in" of sorts to celebrate the release of the new cast recording. The cast will sign the CDs on stage, where audience members from that night's performance will have priority in the line. Others may begin to line up at 7pm.

This sounds like a great idea; totally in keeping with the feeling of HAIR. How odd would it be to have it at something like a Barnes & Noble (who recently hosted the WEST SIDE STORY cast). This is a perfect fit for the adamant fans of the show, many of whom have danced on stage at the end of the show (ahem, me included). Don't think I'll be able to make it though, but have fun to those who are!

http://www.broadwayworld.com/article/HAIR_Celebrates_CD_Release_With_On_Stage_Sign_In_623_20090618

August: Osage County to End Broadway Run June 28

2009-06-18T16:05:00.005-04:00

somebody's peeved...

After reading this wonderful play last summer, I made a note of seeing the production as soon as possible. Well as soon as possible came last Friday, where I finally had the opportunity to see the show at the Music Box with Phylicia Rashad and Tony-Winner for her role in August, Amy Morton.

Grabbing a discounted seat in the second to the last row in the Mezz, I made my journey into this odd, twisted world of August. I remembered most of the plot but couldn't help but being suprised by (one of) the twists at the end. I thought Phylicia did an amazing job in her role as Violet - completely in her own world, which is necessary for that character. And Amy Morton, had her voice flying through the air, which her role requires.

Finally making the visit to August was an extremely pleasing (if a play of that subject can be) experience, so I'm saddened (but not suprised) of the news of its closure. If you're in the area and need 3 hours of good family drama, catch August.

http://www.playbill.com/news/article/130338-August_Osage_County_to_End_Broadway_Run_June_28

Hey Utopia!

2009-06-18T15:54:00.003-04:00

So, if you've read any earlier blogs of mine, you'll note a story I wrote about a junior year English class project, of creating what you feel is your utopia. Short story: I created a wooden board and drew a (accurate for 2003) map of the Broadway theatre district. I was wondering if there were any up to date pictures of this online and I found one!

Behold the Utopia:

Click on the link below to see the number with what theatre it is and what show is playing.

Courtesy of TheatreMania.com

http://www.theatermania.com/broadway/theater-map/

hey world!

2009-06-15T20:34:00.001-04:00

Tony Award Post

2009-06-11T21:26:00.006-04:00

So it already seems like a million years ago but I have to document it on here.

Yes I am in NYC for the summer, so that means I should be doing ultra cool stuff like going to museums, seeing a ton of shows, going to the Tonys....and not falling asleep at 9:30pm on a Wednesday night? Ok, wrong....but things are looking up!

Sunday night, I desperately did not want to watch the awards (aka Christmas) here in my (lovely) apartment. I wanted some sort of excitement around me, after all I was in the city that it was happenning. And because I am not a billionaire (or dating one) and do not have those connections I could not attend the event. But I did leisurely stroll by Radio City (which is always a mistake because Anthropologie is right by). The crowd was building across the street and the excitement was in the air to see NYC's Broadway stars - and I was excited because I was able to be a part of an audience to view the awards.

Not quite my time yet to see the awards handed out live, I did get to become a community with others right in the middle of Times Square for the first ever live broadcast of the creative and prime time awards! I was surprised that this was the first year they had ever been broadcast this way since, midtown is the heart of Broadway. I was surprised to find actual organization in this event, where they had set up nice (one step up from the lawn chairs now strewn across Broadway street) folding chairs. They had several speakers set up, which broadcast loud and clear, on the big CNN screen facing east, for all of Times Square to view.

It was such a beautiful night out, I really couldn't have asked for a better situation.

Well, I guess I would have changed some of the winners around but I can't be a chooser (not a Tony voter yet -- lucky Colleen Jennings-Roggensack , executive director of ASU's Gammage is Arizona's only Tony voter -- but that will change in time). I am happy with the production as a whole for this broadcast. I think Neil Patrick Harris did a great job as host and was estatic by the crackhouse that was the opening number.

Christmas '09 has come and gone but that only means a new season is starting on Broadway. I'm trying to see as many shows as possible (and re-seeing some favorites along the way), and I'm also trying to vary the types of art I see. So cheers to a great summer.

see the rest of the pictures at: http://www.flickr.com/photos/natscookiejar

confession time:

2009-06-11T21:12:00.003-04:00

My last two posting have dealt with New York Theatre Workshop's current production of THINGS OF DRY HOURS. While I've never done promoting of a show, mainly reviews and current obsessions, I'm happy to say for this summer, I am an intern for NYTW.

That being said, I've had the chance to see the production twice, and I have to be honest and say that I really do enjoy it. And I'll be the first person to tell you that I can't (usually) sit down and just watch a straight play (straight play meaning, no music, etc). It's hard for me -- but taking Modern Drama classes and trying to expose myself to more of this type of theatre has been a great experience. So with TODH, it's a unique experience because it really is the best of both world. The dialogue in this show presents itself in a lyrical/poetic fashion that has a great force, especially when spoken by such actors as Roslyn Ruff and Delroy Lindo.

In the other post about the show, I copied a description of the show, so I won't go there again but what I do have to say is that this show opens up a new part of American history I had never known about and it makes me curious about more not well known events.

So am I biased in saying you (whoever you may be) should see THINGS OF DRY HOURS just because of my association with NYTW? Sure, but as a theatre go-er and lover, this should be seen to be appreciated.

Promotional Video for THINGS OF DRY HOURS

2009-06-11T19:16:00.000-04:00

THINGS OF DRY HOURS - New York Theatre Workshop

2009-06-11T14:00:00.004-04:00

THINGS OF DRY HOURS
Text - Naomi Wallace

Direction - Ruben Santiago-Hudson

Scenic Design - Richard Hoover

Costume Design - Karen Perry

Lighting Design - Marcus Doshi

Sound Design and Original Music - David Van Tieghem

Fight Direction and Effects Design - David Leong

Composer - Bill Sims, Jr.

Additional Music - Derek Wieland

Description: Naomi Wallace's Things of Dry Hours marks the return tothe New York stage of famed stage and screen star Delroy Lindo, who received Tony Award and Drama Desk nominations for his last Broadway appearance in the original Joe Turner's Come and Gone. Lindo is joined on stage by OBIE Award-winner Roslyn Ruff, who just earned rave reviews for her performance in Athol Fugard's Coming Home at Long Wharf and Garret Dillahunt (No Country for Old Men). Set in Depression-era Alabama, Things of Dry Hours tells the story of Tice Hogan (Lindo), an African American out-of-work Sunday school teacher and member of the Communist Party, and his daughter Cali (Ruff) whose lives get turned upside down when they take in a mysterious white factory worker (Dillahunt) on the run. Tony Award-winning actor/writer/producer Ruben Santiago-Hudson (Lackawanna Blues, Seven Guitars) directs.

shows seen recently

2009-06-07T17:16:00.003-04:00

REASONS TO BE PRETTY

EVERYDAY RAPTURE
with sherie rene scott

IN THE HEIGHTS
yes, 4 times now

"Next To Normal"

2009-04-26T21:24:00.005-04:00

Diana's head must look like what my apartment kitchen looks like right now. Piles of dishes, a mess of a refrigerator, and sticky floors - all of which are not her fault. And not my fault either.

"Next To Normal" centers around a suburban family with issues. Not "August" issues but interesting ones none the less. The character Diana, the incendiary Alice Ripley, has mental problems. Her husband, Henry, played by J. Robert Spencer, tries to help his wife get the best medical attention (and pills) she needs. Their children are Natalie (Spring Awakening alum Jennifer Damiano) and Aaron Tveit, plays Gabe. Everything that goes on in Diana's head effects everyone around.

The show starts with a great song "Just Another Day" which shows the audience just how typical of an American family they are...until Diana starts to place bread slices on the floor, one after the other and tries to explain that she's just making sandwiches but in reality, her mental illness is shown to the audience.

She sees Dr. Madden, who prescribes her more than several pills that should help her but Diana decides in the song "I Miss the Mountains" that she wants to try living life without the medicine.

Her daughter Natalie starts seeing, Henry, a pot smoker who suddenly becomes the good influence on her, when she starts to abuse her mothers pills.

Gabe, is Diana's 17 year old son, who died when he was a baby. Yes, in her mind, she sees her song, who is not really there. In the first song, it seems like he's actually there but later in the first act, it's realized that he is just a figment of her illness. He has a great song, "I'm Alive", where he protests that he will not leave his mother's side. It's a bizarre relationship but it's the core reason why Diana acts like she does. In a chilling moment she said that when her son died, the doctor said she would be fine after 4 months but really, only 4 months is normal to get over the death of a child? And if the patient isn't fine, then pills are the next step? What kind of "guidelines" are these?

The show is not a fluffy musical being paraded by Disney. With music by Tom Kitt (High Fidelity) and lyrics and book by Brian Yorkey, this is definitely a show you do not want to miss. It's moving, thrilling, and makes you think. Go run to the Booth Theatre, Alice Ripley (your Tony nom is in the bag), will have you standing on your feet at the end.

"A Miracle Would Happen/When You Come Home"

2009-04-24T21:50:00.004-04:00

I wish I could post lyrics and video to every song from the Last Five Year's score. But I won't. Even though every song is amazing, the character Jamie gets his say on marriage and Norbert Leo Butz doesn't fail to deliver.

JAMIE
Everyone tells you that the minute you get married
Every other woman in the world
Suddenly finds you attractive
Well, that's not true
It only affects the kind of women
You always wanted to sleeep with
But they wouldn't give you the time of day before
And now they're banging down your door
And falling to their knees
At least that's what it feels like because you
Can
Not
Touch
Them
In fact, you can't even look at them
Close your eyes, close your eyes, close your eyes
Except you're sitting there
Eating your corned beef sandwich
And all of a sudden, this pair of breasts walks by
And smiles at you
And you're like "That's not fair!"

And in a perfect world
A miracle would happen
And every other girl would fly away
And it'd be me and Cathy,
And nothing else would matter
But it's fine, it's fine, it's fine
I mean, I'm happy
And I'm fine, I'm fine, I'm fine
It's not a problem
It's just a challenge
It's a challenge to resist
Temptation

And I have to say that
What exacerbates the problem
Is I'm at these parties
I'm the center of attention
I'm the grand fromage
And here she comes:
"Let's get a cup of coffee.
Will you look at my manuscript?"
And I'm showing her my left hand
I'm gesticulating with my left hand
And then WHOOMP! There's Cathy!
'Cause she knows
(They always know)
And there's that really awkward moment
Where I try to show I wasn't encouraging this
(Though of course I sort of was)
And I don't want to look whipped in front of this woman
Which is dumb - I shouldn't care what she thinks
Since I can't fuck her anyway!

And in a perfect world
A miracle would happen
And every girl would look like Mister Ed
And it'd be me and Cathy
And nothing else would matter
But it's fine, it's fine, it's fine
You know I love her
And it's fine, it's fine, it's fine
It's what I wanted
And I'm fine, I'm fine, I'm fine!
It's not a problem
It's just a challenge
It's a challenge to resist
Temptation

CATHERINE
When you come home to me
I'll wear a sweeter smile
And hope that, for a while, you'll stay
When you come home to me
Your hand will touch my face
And banish any trace of gray
Soon, a love will rise anew
Even greater than the joy I felt
Just missing you
And once again, I'll be
So proud to call you "mine"
When you finally come home
To me

JAMIE
I'll be there soon, Cathy
I'll finish up this chapter and be out the door
I swear I'll be there soon, Cathy
Don't give up on me yet
I am so proud of you, baby
You're doing what you never got to do before
And I will be there, ripe and crawling
If fuckin' Random House stops calling
Don't lose faith
Don't get down
Don't despair
I'll be there

And in a perfect world
A miracle would happen
And that day would finally be here
And it'd be me and you
Riding it together
And the things we do
Goin' like we planned
We're gonna make it through
And nothing else will matter
We'll be fine, we're fine
We're fine, we're fine, we're fine
I'll be there soon, Cathy...
I swear I will

"I Can Do Better Than That" - I'm Obsessed.

2009-04-24T21:44:00.002-04:00

CATHERINE
My best friend had a little situation
At the end of our senior year
And like a shot, she and Mitchell got married that summer
Carolann getting bigger every minute
Thinking, "What am I doing here?"
While Mitchell's out every night
Being a heavy-metal drummer
They got a little cute house on a little cute street
With a crucifix on the door
Mitchell got a job at the record store in the mall
Just the typical facts of a typical life in a town on the Eastern Shore
I thought about what I wanted
It wasn't like that at all
Made Carolann a cute baby sweater
Thinking "I can do better than that"

In a year or so, I moved to the city
Thinking "What have I got to lose?"
Got a room, got a cat, and got twenty pounds thinner
Met a guy in a class I was taking who you might say
Looked like Tom Cruise
He wouldn't leave me alone 'less I went with him to dinner
And I guess he was cute
And I guess he was sweet
ANd I guess he was good in bed
I gave up my life for a better part of a year
And so I'm starting to think that this maybe might work
And the second it entered my head
He needed to take some time off
Focus on his "career"
He blew me off with a heartfelt letter
I thought "I can do better than that"

You don't have to get a haircut
You don't have to change your shoes
You don't have to like Duran Duran
Just love me

You don't have to put the seat down
You don't have to watch the news
You dont' have to learn to tango
You don't have to eat prosciutto
You don't have to change a thing
Just stay with me

I want you and you and nothing but you
Miles and piles of you
Finally I'll have something worthwhile
To think about each morning

You and you and nothing but you
No substitution will do
Nothing but fresh, undiluted and pure
Top of the line and totally mine!

I don't need any lifetime commitments
I don't need to get hitched tonight
I don't want to throw up your walls and defenses
I don't mean to put on any pressure
But I know what a thing is right
And I spend every day reconfiguring my sense
When we get to my house, take a look at that town
Take a look at how far I've gone

I will never go back
Never look back anymore
And it feels like my life led right to your side
And will keep me there from now on
Think about what you wanted
Think about what could be
Think about how I love you
Say you'll move in with me
Think of what's great about me and you
Think of the bullshit we've both been through
Think of what's past because we can do better!
We can do better!
We can do better than that!
We can do better than that!

The Beauty That Is "The Last 5 Years"

2009-04-22T23:40:00.004-04:00

Stephen Sondheim knew how to write innovative musicals. Meat pies, whistling towns, Bobby, and Maria and Tony. What is stifling new works in today's musical theatre industry? Why does writing "Generic Musical Title: A New Musical" appear to be the kiss of death on Broadway? What is it that makes theatre goers, mostly casual, not want to try out new theatre? Perhaps it's because they paid top dollar to see a beloved revival of West Side Story and they know the story already, so they figured they'd have a better time? Do audiences not want to watch challenging and compelling new works?

I guess that is why Off-Broadway is so vital to this industry. It does give opportunities for new plays and musicals to be grown both on stage and with its audiences. That leads me to the masterpiece, yes masterpiece, that is "The Last 5 Years", lyrics and music by Jason Robert Brown.

This is a show that I bought online back in the early 2000s and did not know a whole lot about it. But I guess that means I'm the type of person who loves to explore new music. When I went to Scottsdale Community College, I presented a project on Stephen Sondheim and his Broadway legacy and I touched based on how without him, works like The Last 5 Years, would probably not be possible. I believe that JRB has such a prolific voice in this industry and his ability to tell a story through his lyrics is only comparable to that of Sondheim.

So, the story of L5Y is of Cathy and Jamie, a young couple, she an actress from a small town who moves to NYC and he, a writer who makes the big time.

Simple story right?

What makes it so damn compelling is that it's told from both their perspectives, without ever communicating with eachother (except once). Also, Cathy starts her story at the end of the relationship and Jamie starts with the beginning, when he meets Cathy. Each characters take their turn telling their stories through songs, as each story progresses (degresses in Cathy's instance), we learn how the story unravels and how these two fell in and out of love. The only scene where they actually are in the same "moment" is during their wedding; the incredible song "The Next Ten Minutes."

JAMIE
No, that one's Jerry Seinfeld
That one's John Lennon there
No, the Dakota
The San Remo is up a few blocks
Have you been inside the Museum?
We should go
Meet the dinosaurs

Cathy...

Will you share your life with me
For the next ten minutes?
For the next ten minutes
We can handle that
We could watch the waves
We could watch the sky
Or just sit and wait
As the time ticks by
And if we make it till then
Can I ask you again
For another ten?

And if you in turn agree
To the next ten minutes
And the next ten minutes
Till the morning comes
Then just holding you
Might compel me to
Ask you for more
There are so many lives I want to share with you
I will never be complete until I do

CATHERINE
I'm not always on time
Please don't expect that from me
I will be late
But if you can just wait
I will make it eventually

Not like it's in my control
Not like I'm proud of the fact
But anything other than being exactly on time
I can do

I don't know why people run
I don't know why things fall through
I don't know how anybody survives in this life
Without someone like you
I could protect and preserve
I could say no and goodbye
But why, Jamie, why?

I want to be your wife
I want to bear your child
I want to die
Knowing I
Had a long, full life in your arms
That I can do
Forever, with you

JAMIE
Will you share your life with me

CATHERINE
Forever

JAMIE
For the next ten lifetimes?

CATHERINE
Forever, Jamie

JAMIE
For a million summers

BOTH
Till the world explodes
Till there's no one left
Who has ever known us apart

JAMIE
There are so many dreams
I need to see with you...

CATHERINE
There are so many years
I need to be with you...

JAMIE
I will never be complete

CATHERINE
I will never be alive

JAMIE
I will never change the world
Until I do

CATHERINE
I do

JAMIE
I do

CATHERINE
I do

BOTH
I do...

CATHERINE
Is that one John Lennon?
That's the San Remo
Isn't that the Museum?
Can we go see the dinosaurs?

The amazing Norbert Leo Butz and Sherie Rene Scott

While I've never seen a full production of this show, I know that this is one that is making the regional rounds, so, if you hear of a production in your area: go, go, go! It's art that makes you think, challenge your belief in marriage and relationships and experience life.

Never Fear

2009-04-21T20:36:00.004-04:00

I am seeing two shows this up-coming weekend, two shows I've never seen before.

Next To Normal
April 25, 2009 2pm

Rooms
April 25, 2009 8pm

So excited to see both, so I will be back soon with a detailed review of both.

And I may make a stop at HAIR too =]

Ken Davenport Has An Idea: Independent Theater Bloggers Unite

2009-04-06T15:07:00.005-04:00

Broadway and Off-Broadway producer and savvy blogger has invited all internet bloggers who specifically write about theatre to a social at Planet Hollywood in NYC.

The details are:

1ST THEATER BLOGGERS SOCIAL

Thursday, April 23rd.
6 PM - 8 PM
Planet Hollywood
Broadway at 45th St.

To RSVP, comment to Ken's blog with your name and the URL of your blog. Confirmation and final details will be emailed to you. Oh, and to qualify as a "Theater Blogger", you should:

Have a blog devoted primarily to theater
Post regularly
Be an independent blogger (not sponsored/paid to blog by any organization)

Not 100% sure what I'll be up to that weekend but I know attending Ken's last social in December that it will be a good time.

Also, he (or someone) has launched this suspicious looking website. http://www.theaterbloggers.com/ Can't wait to see what he has up his sleeve.

http://www.theproducersperspective.com/my_weblog/2009/04/theater-bloggers-of-the-world-unite-1st-theater-bloggers-social-announced.html

Happy Opening HAIR!

2009-04-01T17:14:00.009-04:00

Some of my favorite pics of last night's opening of the current revival of HAIR.

Broadway Marquee

I adore the expression Kacie's face (far left). So much love.

Will Swenson as Berger

Gavin Creel as Claude
Gavin Creel
Kacie Sheik * You're a Broadway star!
Kacie & Allison Case
Tony Award Winner John Gallagher Jr.

photos taken from broadwayworld.com

Raul Esparza and Norbert Leo Butz sing Last 5 Years - Together

2009-03-30T23:12:00.000-04:00

It's like a dream.

Somebody put them in a musical together stat!

Hi: I saw Adam Pascal in RENT

2009-03-30T21:31:00.000-04:00

March 19, 2009 at 7:30pm mountain standard time a dream finally came true. Yes, Natalie finally saw Adam Pascal in RENT. You see, for I, unsuccessfully tried to see him October 2007 but yet, he was out the matinee I went.

Adam has been this figure high in the air whom I fell for his voice and my 14 year old self loved. That sentence made no sense and I apologize but the thing is, this was an epic night. And I'm so glad I was able to share it with ... my mom and brother. Yes that's right. Anyway, it was so odd and wonderful to see RENT again, especially at my beloved Gammage. I know in a previous post I wrote about my history with this show but to see it again (esp. after the magical last on Broadway), it never fails to bring a tear to my eyes. I think it's because it means so much to me that to finally see Adam in this role, I just couldn't believe it. It was happening in the place where it all started.

The show itself is always full of life - especially since many of my favorites were in this cast. Caren Lyn Manuel, or now she is Caren Tackett (so much love), Justin Johnson as Angel and Anthony Rapp back as Mark. I closed my eyes when Adam sang One Song Glory and it was exactly how I imagined the song to be sung. Or should I say, how perfectly the song can be sung. Pure beauty.

The only negative thing about this cast is the Maureen. I was crossing my fingers for an understudy because, I'm sorry Nicolette Hart, I'm just not a fan. I also wish I could have seen Benny alums Karmine Alers or Joshua Kobak go on as something. And major props to Andy Senor for being, Andy Senor.

Overall I'm so happy to have finally seen Adam. 9 years later and I'm still so grateful for this show.

American Idot put on stage

2009-03-30T21:20:00.000-04:00

Green Day's concept album "American Idiot" will be represented on the stage with Michael Mayer as director.

Berkeley Repertory Theatre in California confirmed on March 30 that a new Michael Mayer-directed stage musical based on rock band Green Day's "American Idiot" album will premiere there this fall. American Idiot will run Sept. 4- Oct. 11, opening Berkeley Rep’s 2009-10 season in the Roda Theatre. A limited number of seats go on sale March 30 at berkeleyrep.org.

This is intriguing to me because although I haven't heard the whole album but just the singles. But from what I heard their songs sound a lot like songs that are currently to what Spring Awakening and In The Heights are doing in their shows. Creating songs that can be heard on the radio or blasting from a car. So this is an exciting venture for both Green Day and Michael Mayer. I hope this opens up people's eyes to see that theatre is another great way of expressing yourself. And on the flip side this may get a lot of theatre people interested in Green Day. So I think it's a win-win situation.

Now how should they go about casting John Gallagher Jr. -- just kidding.

Hair revival set for spring release!!

2009-03-30T21:18:00.000-04:00

I can't get the music, feeling, love out of my mind. I am so excited to hear that the revival of Hair will be recorded for all to hear on Ghostlight Records.

Much love to the entire cast and crew when it opens on Broadway tomorrow!

http://www.playbill.com/news/article/127845.html

Hair

2009-03-19T17:45:00.000-04:00

I saw the first matinee of the current Broadway run of the musical HAIR on March 7. Going in, knowing the story and some music, I was thoroughly excited to see my first production of the 1960s musical.

When you first walk in the mood is automatically created. It wasn't just another, walk into theatre, sit down and wait for the show to start. There was a buzz in the air, with the curtain hung up on the stage in this beautiful purplish array of colors, and with handprint lights on the walls of the theatre - it was really unique and different. It really felt like we were already introduced and absorbed into their story before the show even began. Oh, and a member of the hippie tribe does some unusual yoga/streching before the show in front of the audience - another great way to begin the performance.

The show itself was fantastic - this being my first time - I didn't realize the whole cast (tribe) was on stage for almost every song. It really felt like they were this big (dysfunctional) family, who cared about each other. Berger, played by Prince himself, Will Swenson. I say Prince because I saw him mulitple times in We Will Rock You Las Vegas. He completely engages the audience from the get go and despite one technical program with a mic during his song "Going Down" (had to use a mic instead of his head set but handled it like a pro), he was amazing. I hear talk of a possible Tony nom. Good for him, well deserved.

Oh Gavin Creel, how I have come to adore you since watching you in Thoroughly Modern Millie in a grainy bootleg VHS. I was so excited to see him and I can say without a doubt, he was fabulous. Gavin has this voice - yes a voice - that is so powerful and so full of life and emotion that captues his audience. As Claude, I really felt how he could feel so conflicted about burning his draft card, about his relationship with his parents - so when it comes to the end of the play - it's so heartbreaking (more on that in a minute).

Sheila, played by Cassie Levy, was adorable - given the role is a little underwritten - does the best she can. She has a great number, "Easy To be Hard", and she rips through it like a force.

Jeanie, played by Kacie Sheik, was an ensemble member who completely stood out - maybe it's her incredible hair (yes, I am jealous). The pregnant character, who is in love with Claude, is the totally encompassment of the hippie tribe. So much love to Miss. Scaramouche.

The final scene, where the cast sings "Flesh Failures/Let The Sun Shine In" was one of the most profound pieces of imagary that I can recall seeing in the theatre. The entire house was still, but full of emotion as the cast sang the final song and moved its way through the audience, to where the song ended in a fading echo, with Claude left on stage. So incredibly moving.

The bows included a reprise of "Let The Sun Shine In", where the tribe invited audience members to come on stage and dance with them. Now - if I hadn't been a poor college student, who purchased the cheapest tickets in the last row - I would have been up there with them. But you know - there's always next time. And I attend to see it, again and again and again.'

**
I also want to mention how cool their marketing and advertising has been. Their signs are bright and vibrant and completely welcoming. Also, on their website, instead of regular bios, they have "tribe videos" which are really really cool (in my book). Also, they have a Twitter and several other social programs. Totally cool.

Defying Inequality: The Broadway Concert, a celebrity benefit for equal rights

2009-02-25T23:20:00.000-05:00

On Monday the 23rd, I skipped one of my afternoon classes to take a bus into NYC to attend Defying Inequality with my friend Meredith. It was rather on impulse back in January that we bought our tickets and it seemed that it took forever to get to this day.

The concert's agenda was to raise money for five organizations: Empire State Pride Agenda, Equality California, Family Equality Council, Garden State Equality, and Vermont Freedom To Marry.

Prop 8: The Musical

Walking into the Gershwin (and not seeing Wicked! haha), I was so excited to see the performances by many Broadway companies and stars. But I did not forget why this benefit was taking place - the passing of Prop 8 in California angered so many people, gay and straight - it truly was time to stand up and not allow for injustice. I was dismayed when the proposition in my home state of Arizona passed to declare the definition of marriage only being between a man and woman. I was so glad to be a part of this amazing night, donating my two cents and watching amazing performances and emotional speeches.

Some highlights: Stephanie J. Block singing a beautiful song about her wedding and her brothers wedding. Kelli O'Hara singing to her unborn child, Kerry Butler singing a song from the up coming production of Catch Me If You Can,

ensemble members dancing to Single Ladies (Put a Ring On It),

the cast of Sesame Street singing Sing A Song, Wonder Woman (Lynda Carter) singing a hot song,

discovering a new talent in Matt Alber (his song was so amazing!),

Seth Rudetsky deconstructing a hilarious clip of the Brady Bunch variety show,

Bebe Neuwirth singing Mad Libs style to her signature tune of All That Jazz

and the cast of Hair bringing down the house with The Flesh Failures (Let The Sunshine In).

The cast of Spring Awakening with Original Melchior and Moritz, Jonathan Groff and John Gallagher Jr., finally telling the world of their love. haha

The night lasted a total of 4 hours! Yes, started at 8pm and ended at 11:59pm - but a great way to spend that time. I hope the proceeds from this benefit positively impact the organizations but most importantly, I hope this event sends a message to those who agree with oppressing one's rights in life that this cause is not going to back down.

Spider-man: Turn Off The Dark

2009-02-25T23:13:00.001-05:00

The artwork has been revealed for the upcoming Broadway production of Spider-Man. What do you think?

Casting has been kept under raps (although Rachel Evan Wood said she will be in this production as Mary Jane), no word on who Peter Parker will be played by. Time Out magazine online has suggested that Tony Award winner John Gallagher Jr. play the part. Their three main points to convince the bosses that Gallagher would be perfect 1) can rock out 2) has intense acting chops 3) loads of fan(girls).Who knows? I would love to see a transfer of Farragut North to Broadway with John before Spider-Man but it would be rather fun (and hilarious) to see.

http://www3.timeoutny.com/newyork/upstaged/2009/02/casting-call-john-gallagher-jr-for-spider-man/

Recycling Broadway

2009-02-22T00:45:00.001-05:00

No - the title of this blog doesn't elude to how Rent likes to "recycle" its cast for the past ten years, but rather the actual act of recycling major musicals and plays sets on Broadway to help produce future productions.

Maybe it's the nerd in me that wonders what happens to certain costume pieces or set/props after a show as closed, or even after a certain actor has left the show. Do the actors get to keep their attire they work in 8 times a week?

The Times had an article this week, "Old Sets Live on as Broadway Embraces Recycling", talking about this topic.

Thanks to the initiative the 15 tons of debris produced by “Boeing-Boeing,” “The Seagull” and “13” won’t end up in a landfill. Seven tons (steel, wood, fabric and carpet) will be recycled, and eight tons will be reused by various organizations, including the Socrates Sculpture Park in Long Island City, Queens; ReBuilders Source, a reuse store in the Bronx; and the children’s charity World Vision. The sets from “All My Sons” and “Grease” are also largely being repurposed and recycled.
But in what may be an economic measure as much as an environmental one, most of the props and costumes from recently closed shows like “Gypsy,” “Hairspray,” “Liza’s at the Palace...,” “Slava’s Snowshow,” “Monty Python’s Spamalot,” “Irving Berlin’s White Christmas” and “The New Mel Brooks Musical Young Frankenstein” went into storage for reuse later.

I think it's particularly exciting to see a set being used for another production across the world. For example the Las Vegas set of We Will Rock You went directly to the Australian production of the Queen musical. Also, the recently closed Dividing The Estate play on Broadway, will be coming directly to Hartford Stage with every set piece and costume in tow.

I think if I were in a Broadway show, and if I wasn't allowed my costume, I'd beg for my shoes. Every nick and scratch is a scar that tells a story of a performance on a Broadway stage.

http://www.nytimes.com/2009/02/15/theater/15davi.html?ref=theater

Shrek on The View

2009-02-17T22:15:00.000-05:00

This morning Shrek performed two songs on The View. I think the only reason why I would see this show would be to see Sutton and Brian. Hopefully I'll get to see it before they leave and if I can manage to get a good discount seat.

Johnny Gallagher gig

2009-02-15T13:34:00.001-05:00

There are many reasons why I came to the Hartt school all the way in Connecticut. One was the fact that I would be learning things in school and because I was so close to NYC. So 2 and half hours isn't that close but for someone who grew up in a desert - it's close enough.

There are times when I go into the city to see musicals and plays and there are times when I see this dude Johnny Gallagher (of Spring Awakening) play his own music. He had a show on Valentine's Day at the Rockwood Music Hall and fun was had.

Fuck It (I Don't Want You Back) cover

This cover alone was worth getting up at 7am on a Saturday to head into the city for only 6 hours. Bless.

Hi!

2009-02-13T15:23:00.001-05:00

And I'm back.
With some updates.

Since I last left, I was back home in Phoenix and now I am settled back at school. The only show I have seen so far was the final performance of Spring Awakening. I wrote a few entries back about how significant this show has been on my life and that night was absolutely amazing. It was my first time seeing the new cast and they held their own - especially when they did an encore of "Totally Fucked" during the show! I think that's when i realized, "what am i going to do without this?" And started to get teary eyed. I was quite proud of my emotions up until that point - and then "Those You've Known" and that amazing drum beat - gets me every time!

The entire (mostly) alumni came back on stage and it was so lovely to see everyone. I was sitting next to a man who had seen the show over 100 times, and I'm thought - wow and people give me flack about seeing it 8 times but that's the thing - if you love something SO much, of course you're going to see it more than once - that being said, when someone says they have a favorite album, they have most likely listened to it once - so why can't I do the same about seeing shows without getting crap? Just a thought.

So - this season has been pretty dismal for the arts. Shows are closing, performing arts centers closing around the country - will my degree be useless if there are no positions open for me when I graduate? I think that's been on my mind a lot lately - the whole resume, internship, job, life has been taking it's toll. Who knows though.

As for this spring - I hope to see many shows, Billy Elliot, Hair, Guys and Dolls....!

January 4th closings; 13 the Musical; Altar Boyz Review

2009-01-04T19:02:00.001-05:00

It's rather poignant that I begin this entry of the new year on the day that many shows on Broadway are closing. I know a lot of this is due to the economic stress and what not and while some shows definitely deserved to close earlier (I'm looking at you Grease), some other didn't.

I'm talking about that little musical called 13.

My friend Jared and I were able to see the show December 13 in New York City. To be honest, I had no real inkling to see the show but due to losing In The Heights lotto, our next bet was the 13 student rush tickets for only $25. So despite the extremely rude box office lady at the Jacobs Theatre, we obtained our tickets for the matinee that day.

The story is simple, Evan, a boy about to turn 13, has parents going through a divorce. In turn, Evan moves away from his beloved NYC to the Midwest to begin a new life. Moving in the middle of October, just a few days away from his bar mitzvah, he has to gain new friends and learn how to 'become a man.

Through the ups and downs of the adventures in his new town, and the fantastic score by Jason Robert Brown (Last 5 years, Songs for the New World), played on stage by teenagers, and sung and acted by kids that are still in middle school, I grew to adore this show.

Walking into the theatre, I wasn't surprised that half the seats were empty....until 5 minutes until show time and it seemed every single seat in the orchestra had been filled. With people of all ages, surprising tons of young tweens, who were given booster seats to help see the stage. It was a completely odd experience for me because I'm not used to see such young people at the theatre. But that was what was great about this experience. Exposing youth to a show that is absolutely catered to their age group - with real life experiences that they can relate to. And some not so much.

I was surprised by the blatant openness that some of these characters possessed. One of the characters desperately wanted a girl named Kendra (see the song, "Hey Kendra"), when a boy swoon, "I wanna get up all in your business." Another character claims to be a sex god (Archie), who walks around stage on crutches, who also pines for Kendra. I say this with extreme ease because I saw Rent when I was just 13 and had no idea what was going on during "Contact", so if this is as risque the show got, than good for them. After all, it's not like Spring Awakening junior or anything.

Two songs that stuck out to me were "Any Minute" and "It Can't Be True". The first occured during the big movie date and was just a hilarious moment when the gang goes to see a scary R rated movie "Bloodmaster", which seems less than ideal as the movie progresses.

Eric:
Someone got his eyelids torn off
And I’m sitting here
And I should be doing something
That guy got an axe in his throat
And she’s sitting there
And I don’t know why I’m waiting

But oh, any minute
I’ll be getting closer
And I’ll be where I want to be
Any minute

Kendra:
Someone got his gall chopped in half
And he’s sitting there
And maybe he doesn’t want me

Maybe it was something I said
Or maybe my breath
Why did I eat those pork rinds?

Cause oh, any minute
He could turn and kiss me
And we’ll be where he ought to be
Any minute

Eric:
She just set his penis on fire

Kendra:
This is weird

Eric:
What do I do?

Kendra:
Am I fat?

Eric:
This is so not romantic

Kendra:
He wants to be with Lucy

Eric:
This was such a stupid idea

The next song I immediately loved was "It Can't Be True", with the girls in the show circulated a rumor about the main character Evan and Kendra. With the beat and the girls' fantastic singing (which makes me insanely jealous), it's a song that stuck out.

Molly:
Oh, hey, Lucy. What’s up?

Lucy:
Check this out. I just got the juiciest text from Charlotte who told me the nastiest thing about Kendra.

Molly:
Kendra? No! What?

Lucy:
Alright, I’ll tell you. But remember…
Everything Charlotte says is a lie
It’s a lie, it’s a lie, it’s a lie
Everything Charlotte says is a lie
You better not believe her

Cause she said she saw
Kendra and Evan at the mall
Standing face to face
Laughing, and talking, and holding hands
Slipping all the way to first base!

But everything Charlotte says is a lie
You better not believe her

Sadly, the show closes today after being on Broadway for a short time. I do feel that this show will do very well in regional productions because it does have a base of fans that will carry this show.

The previous night I saw the Off-Broadway show, Altar Boyz. I had seen this show in its tour carnication at Gammage in Arizona and loved it. We were able to get $25 tickets to this show as well, thanks to producer Ken Davonport and his social we attended that day.

The show is based on a 5 member boy band who worship good ol' Jesus Christ. Yes, it's as hilarious as it seems, truly. Especially if you're a Catholic, a lot of the references are geared to the sometimes insane-ness of the religion (And yes, I'm Catholic, and was not offended).

Hailed as "high-octane entertainment", Altar Boyz tells the holy inspiring story of 5 small-town boys - Matthew, Mark, Luke, Juan and Abraham - trying to save the world one screaming fan at a time. Their pious pop act, including lyrics like "Girl You Make Me Wanna Wait" and "Jesus Called Me On My Cell Phone," worked wonders on the Ohio bingo-hall-and-pancake-breakfast circuit. But when fate brings them to New York, will the boyz take a bite out of the forbidden apple?

I'm really glad I saw this show again because it never fails to make me fall out of my seat laughing. I mean, who can deny lyrics like this:

Spoken: Girl, whenever we get this frisky,
I know it’s hard to put on the brakes, baby, I know.
But something’s making behave responsibly tonight.
It’s your special blend of charisma and spunk.
Crunk, I guess you’d call it.
But whatever it is, you got it all up in you girl.
You got crunk.

And I think you understand my choice,
And I know you see it’s true.
When I tell you that this hurts me more than you.

And I know that there is something about you, baby (something about you, baby)
Something I can’t even say what it is (something I can’t say)
But there’s something about you, baby (something about you, baby)
Girl, you make me want to wait (ooh, ooh, ooh)

Sadly, the venue was way less than half full. The show premiered at the New York Musical Theatre Festival and opened Off-Broadway in 2005 and has not posted a closing date - so if you're in the city and want to see something hilarious that will have you singing the tunes afterwards, go see the Boyz.

Hair to move in Earlier.

2008-12-06T22:30:00.001-05:00

Ticket demand has prompted producers of the new Broadway production of Hair to unveil the show three days earlier than previously announced.

Strong sales and a demand, producers said on Dec. 5, prompted the change in schedule. Previews for the rock musical's revival will now begin three days earlier — on Feb. 10, 2009 — at the Al Hirschfeld Theatre. The official opening remains March 5, 2009. (Previews were previously announced to begin on Feb. 13.)

Tickets for the upcoming Broadway production of Hair: The American Tribal Love-Rock Musical, a capacity-crowd, critical and popular hit this past summer at the Delacorte Theater in Central Park, will go on sale to the general public beginning Dec. 6, and can be purchased by calling Tele-charge at (212) 239-6200, or on-line at www.telecharge.com.

The musical's producers are The Public Theater and Elizabeth Ireland McCann. Oskar Eustis is artistic director of The Public Theater; Andrew D. Hamingson is executive director.

Hello Wicked World!

2008-11-25T17:23:00.001-05:00

I'm back, almost home and yet still in class?
I bring bad news, so many shows on Broadway are closing, it makes my head hurt.
Some are calling this the worst season ever.
Well, it's sad so many shows are closing, it seems there is never a shortage of new productions on the Great White Way.
The latest show to post it's notice is "Mel Brook's Young Frankenstein".
While this show has had a healthy run of over a year, it never was the critically or financial darling of it's prettier sister, "The Producers". A great article was posted this morning on NYTimes about how many people were turned off by the production because of it's rocket high premium prices and almost arrogance surrounding the show. The producers decided not to post it's weekly grosses, while all shows do. They also shortchanged the cap of how many group sales they sold which is a dagger in any production because so many survive of these group profits.
I am one of the many people who did not see this production, despite the stellar talents of Roger Bart and Sutton Foster.

Speaking of Sutton Foster, she is Fiona in the new production of Shrek the Musical. Oh yes, it is now a musical. It's still in previews but there are many reports of so-so reviews. If the tourists have their way, it's sure to last on Broadway for some time.

What else is going on in the Broaway world. Hairspray is closing in January (with the original Tracy and Edna) and Spamalot is closing in January as well.

What are things to look forward to in the spring to off-set this major bummer season? Revivals include Guys and Dolls, Hair, Waiting for Godot, and the funny Will Farrell in You're Welcome America. A Final Night with George W Bush.

I wish you all a great Thanksgiving, and come see a Broadway show - or i'll be sad.

http://www.playbill.com/news/article/123625.html

Farragut North & Equus

2008-11-09T23:13:00.000-05:00

I was fortunate to get a last minute student rush ticket ($10!) to Atlantic Theatre Company's Farragut North Saturday afternoon.

It was...a great show. One, that I will probably see again before it ends. The play revolved around Stephen as young and ambitious 25 year old press rep for a governor running to get the presidential nomination. Back door politics ensues along with his career and personal life. Chris Noth (yes him), plays the campaign manager(okay, so when I saw it, I thought he was the nominee, and in the play he dresses rather sloppy, and i was like wtf, why are you dressed so bad) anyway, bad stuff hits the fan, and it gets intense but the play and story never losses its focus. It had me hanging to the edge of my seat. It was so good. So good.

Evening show was Equus with several of my favorite NYC friends. Okay, so going in I knew the central premise, kid obsessed with horses, gets naked. That's all I knew.
What a weird and sick and twisted show this was. I am now terrifed of horses because actual humans played the horses with metal shaped heads and hooved feet and suddenly they were like in sync with each other and it was crazy and my mind was blown.
Dan Radcliffe was pretty good. I mean, he is Harry Potter and adorable, so it was lovely to see him change into this crazy kid. So anyway, it was crazy and I don't know how I feel about it but at least I'm feeling somethng, right?

It's November already?

2008-11-09T22:50:00.000-05:00

Holy cow, people.
How is it already November 9th? Almost an hour away from double digits.
And so close to thanksgiving (which means home to my dog!)

I've been slacking in my updates because...I am a slacker. so here we go my precious readers(I know you're out there beautifuls).

October was a busy theatre month for me.
I was fortunate to see [title of show], Gypsy, Speed-The Plow- and In The Heights all in one weekend! And with my mom and bff no less.

Let's start with ............. a little [tos]
Oh dear [tos], i love you.
please come in my pocket and stay forever.
Sadly, as reported earlier, [title of show] ran it's course but let me just say, i adored this production.
Having only heard the cast recording (i almost wrote soundtrack, uhoh, im slacking), i knew the general concept but sitting in the second row was pretty amazing.
Hunter and Jeff were fantastic and hilarious and endearing. The girls, Heidi and Susan were perfect in their "me" roles. I adored Secondary Characters and What Kind of Girl Is She, and A Way Back to Then. I felt like the first half really really flowed well and the second part, I was left...waiting, if that makes sense. It got kinda heavy toward the end, which I wasn't expecting but I understand as necessary for the journey.
Anyway, I loved it, I left the theatre smiling (partly because my Amtrak was an hour late and I wasn't sure if I was going to make it on time and the other half because I was 10 minutes away from seeing my Mom).

The next night I saw Gypsy. This was my first time seeing the show and I loved it. But Holy Mother of Jones, it was long. I guess that's how it was done back in the day - 3 hour production. Patti Lupone is god, basically. I was fortunate to see her in Sweeney Todd with my other Broadway husband, Michael Cerveris, and adored her. This production was all about her - and the goddess that is Lauren Benanti. I would love to grow up in vaudeville and then become a stripper! Life long dreams people.

Next night, was kind of a toss up. I ended up seeing the Mamet revival of Speed the Plow, last minute. I adore Raul Esparza, as stated in an earlier blog entry. I half expected him to belt out Being Alive, because the show was in the Barrymore, same as the revival of Company. Jeremy Piven can go either way for me. Love him in Serendpity and yes, Chasing Liberty but kind of don't care for him otherwise. I know, not being a very objective reviewer but hey. Elisabeth Moss was cute.
That is my review of Speed the Plow. Enjoy.

Next night was IN THE HEIGHTS. It needed to be capitalized because this show = my life. Except I don't rap and don't go around dancing and proclaiming my latin-ness. Although, I think I should.
Anyway, this was my 3rd time seeing ITH and my mom's 2nd! Two times - watch out!
This was definitely a favorite of mine because our seats were pretty amazing and it was fantastic to see Karen on again (she was out last time), and of course my girl crush Mandy Gonzalez. Oh and Lin, because well, he's like....awesome.
Mom said she loved it much more this time around and my friend, Elisia, loved it too! I love this show for several reasons but one is that it still makes me cry. Breathe, is the song that struck a cord with me back in March when I saw it in previews (cue me crying in the last row, rear mezz without a tissue). Everything about this show I love. Even the awful parent songs (yeah i said it).
I love in the heights! i love the little mexican flag being waved during Carnival del Barrio.
I love home, i like the climax of home, i love the ending of home. I love in the heights!

Lorelei Gilmore, In A Musical!

2008-10-28T22:35:00.000-04:00

Lauren Graham, most known for her role as Lorelei Gilmore on the WB's Gilmore Girls will be in the upcoming Guys and Dolls revival. She will play Adelaide opposite Oliver Platt.

The revival will be housed at the Nederlander theatre (the recent home of Rent) on 41st street. The production will open in March with previews starting in February.

Before this casting news, I had no real interest in this production. I mean, Ewan Mcgregor won't be in it (he was in a previous carnation on the West End). I have heard rumors of Cheyanne Jackson joining but that is still up in the air.

As hard as it will be for me to enter the Neder again and not see how it once was when Rent was in house, I think I may have to catch a performance, just to see if Lorelei can be a star on Broadway.

Arts Administrator

2008-10-25T19:41:00.000-04:00

While looking at several career paths during my years at community college, I found Arts Administration. These hard working men and women are the people behind the scenes at all arts organizations.

I signed up for a "emerging leaders" mailing for arts presenters and I was passed along this cute song.

http://www.broadjam.com/artists/songs.php?artistID=62291&mediaID=404992

The song is for arts administrators, it's their anthem.

Check it out.

Lyrics

Who's that man with the plan for building an audience for the actors?
Who's that gal making pals with those big symphony benefactors?
Sometimes you might see 'em
Strolling around some well-endowed museum.
You'll know sooner or later,
It's an Arts Administrator.

Take any art that cannot support itself on earned income.
They'll bring the smarts and the heart to help you put on the show and then some.
'Cause you know it ain't easy
Running a 501c3.
Still it's sweeping the nation,
It's Arts Administration.

I've seen 'em balance a budget
With a bake sale benefit.
Between the divas and the details
Any average mortal would quit.

Juggling that governing board
Buying things they can't afford
Driving in an old Accord
('Cause they can't buy a new one).
Getting all their goods in-kind
Starting with the end in mind
They're the best when in a bind.

Even if the muses infused your every breath,
Without their kind you might find
That you're an artist who's starved to death.
You'll need one sooner or later,
It's an Arts Administrator

Friend of every creator,
It's an Arts Administrator.

Not Gone...Another Broadway Closure

2008-10-23T22:15:00.001-04:00

The Bitch Of Living, indeed.

This is shaping to be a very hard season for Broadway and Broadway fans.

With the closing of Rent, Xanadu, [title of show], Legally Blonde, and the soon to be closed Hairspray and Spamolot, this is a heartbreak season.

Add my heartbreaking to this list, Spring Awakening with end its run on Broadway, January 18.

Spring Awakening has a close place in my heart. I first heard about it when it opened on Broadway December 2006. A few friends had seen it early in its run and blogged their comments and soon, I was downloading the cast recording on iTunes and quickly memorizing the lyrics.

It wasn't until June of 2007 that I was able to see the Original Cast on Broadway do their thing. I remember being so mesmerized by the set and especially the amazing light design.

Since then I have seen it 8 times, the most recent was last May. I suppose the reason I haven't gone back is because the Original Cast has left, so an empty feeling is felt. Although I haven't seen the new cast, I have heard many goods thing along with the not so good things. This shouldn't be the reason why the show is closing its doors. I find it hard to believe that the Original Cast is what brought people into the show. It won 8 Tony Awards and has an amazing pop/rock score thanks to Duncan Sheik and Steven Sater

The show will go on of course. There is a National Tour that recently started this fall. Three Broadway actors are included in this tour, and fresh new faces as well. I most likely won't see the tour until it hits Boston in April.

The news of Spring Awakening's close breaks my heart. Now I won't have a very good reason to walk down 49th street anymore. True story: I took a job working at a summer camp in the summer of 2007 to babysit little kids for two months, just so I could come to NYC to see Spring Awakening. I ended up being lucky enough to see it twice that summer, and many times since then, so in writing this entry, it truly saddens me that many young adults will not get to see this incredible show. What touched me, has affected thousands, much much more. I can't imagine a greater show for our generation, right now, that has the same resonance and heart.

Now they’ll walk on my arm through the distant night
And I won’t let them stray from my heart
Through the wind, through the dark, through the winter light
I will read all their dreams to the stars

I’ll walk with them now
I’ll call on their names
I’ll see their thoughts are known

Not gone –
Not gone –
They walk with my heart –
I’ll never let them go

I’ll never let them go
I’ll never let them go
You watch me
Just watch me
I’m calling
I’m calling –
And one day all will know

http://www.playbill.com/news/article/122671.html

Once...the Musical?

2008-10-17T19:59:00.000-04:00

Once became popular over the past year thanks to the tune, "Falling Slowly" written by Marketa Iraglova and Glen Hansard who starred in the movie released in May of 2007.

This movie, is a personal favorite of mine. I can remember watching the trailer in the spring of 2007, and hitting my friend sitting next to me how excited I was.

The movie didn't disappoint. I went to see it several times and bought my DVD the morning of its release.

The passion behind this movie is centered with "guy" and "girl" played by Glen and Marketa. The way it was shot, in a documentary style and with the glorious score, this movie has gone on to affect everyone who stumbles upon it.

The producer of the upcoming Broadway show states:

"In a landscape where the American musical must evolve, Once provides a wonderful, unique opportunity," said producer John Hart in a statement. "Those of us who fell in love with it and its score at the movie theater came out singing, and will do so again when it finds its way to the stage."

Is this a good idea?

Is this a bad idea?

Some people are speaking of this movie as if it was a sacred movie/music that can not be touched. If Glen and Marketa give their blessing and their rights, will that give the ardent fans a reason to be joyous?

How do I feel?

My jaw dropped to the floor when I read the headline. It makes sense that a producer would want to try to put this show on the stage. But doesn't the real reason why this movie works because of the people involved the story surrounding around it? Who will replace Glen and Marketa, will they be good enough, will audiences care? But will this expose their music to a greater audience?

Will they ruin the stage show just as they ruined the DVD cover art? They have "guy" and "girl" holding hands on the DVD, which never happened within the movie and dismisses the whole point of their relationship, musical and romantic.

I have heard that Spring Awakening director Michael Mayer declined to stage the workshop, so it will be interesting how this all comes along.

http://www.playbill.com/news/article/122422.html

And I was in camp.

2008-10-11T22:14:00.000-04:00

The latest Legally Brown has Cheyenne Jackson on the chopping block. Even if Cheyenne is a beautiful (beautiful beautiful)man, this episode was taken over by Robin DeJesus who had the best line, "And I was in camp." He is referring to a great campy musical theatre camp movie titled, "Camp". (Rent it, it's good!)

I also didn't post episode #4 with Allison Janney, so here it is!
My little story for this is that i saw Allison once on 8th street walking with groceries.
Cool Story Blogger Girl! (The Soup, anyone?)

Bohemian Rhapsody & Vegas Lights

2008-10-01T22:32:00.000-04:00

Tony Vincent and Aspen Miller

We Will Rock You: Las Vegas ruled my world for a year in 2005.

The show was based on the London hit of the same name, based on the music of the legendary rock group, Queen. Yes, We Are the Champions, I Want It All, Killer Queen, Under Pressure, Another One Bites the Dust and many other classic songs were the score of this musical.

The story is based around Galileo, a boy who wants to revolt against his very strict futuristic town where music is banned (at least dancing wasn't banned, but it should have been, sorry Tony Vincent...just kidding. No one will get that, maybe Amanda, hi!) The rebel meets his match in Scaramouche who is just like him and not the GaGa kids, still with me?

They meet Brit and Oz who are the leaders of the bohemians who want to revolt against the Killer Queen and her henchman, Khashoggi (there was once a time when I didn't have to look up how to spell that word). Anyway, awesome-ness happens and the bohemians rule and KQ goes away, that's pretty much the premise.

On paper, it sounds horrible right? But it wasn't.

Especally when you have the super talents of Tony Vincent as Galileo (and also Jason Wood), Aspen Miller as Scaramouche (now Aspen Vincent and Kacie Sheik as well). Patti freakin Russo as Killer Queen and Douglas Crawford as Pop(now on Broadway in Jersey Boys..yay!) and the talents of Carly Thomas and Ty Taylor as Oz and Brit.

The talent pool alone was just amazing. Everyone in the ensemble was fantastic. So the music, yeah that was good too. Paul Cook on lead guitar...hello.

Aspen Miller, Brian May, Paul Cook

Okay, so let's talk why this show didn't do so well in Vegas.

You'd think this fun show would have had a long run, especially when you were allowed to bring drinks into the theatre and pretty much get up and dance at the end if you cared to do so. The price of a ticket was around $120, less if you had AAA and remembered. The show ran a little under 2 hours, if that.

Then came the cuts Mid July. Audience members were given comment cards on the state of the show, I remember something about how I put in all caps to keep the show the way it was. My comment was not taken. Anyway. The show got pretty level reviews, people who saw the show enjoyed their time. But how do you get people in seats to see a musical? Even if it is Queen? And at that, why was Mamma Mia! doing so well down the Strip at the Mandalay Bay hotel? What was so fascinating about Abba that Queen didn't have?

I don't have the answer but I do know Broadway West (as it was coined at the time) was not doing so hot. Hairspray opened up at the Luxor a little after WWRY closed in November. Unfortunately, it didn't well either. These shows were the condensed soup version of their Broadway or West End counterpart. How can they cater to the attention span of Vegas tourists? Does Broadway need to be in the desert, available for the drunked herds of the Strip?

Disney thinks so!

Surprise, The Lion King was announced this week that a production will be placed at the Mandalay Bay. In the Playbill article, it states no major cuts will take place, so basically an incarnate of the Broadway version. Brava Disney! Kill for that money! I have seen The Lion King at Gammage, and while visually stunning, nothing that great. In my opinion, of course. But this show sells more money than most shows out there. Mainly touring shows. So, it is a huge benefit for Disney and Manadaly Bay to strike a deal to present this show. Money money money.

But let's think on the other end. Will Vegas tourists want to sit with other families and watch this Disney show? Don't most adults go to Vegas to well...gamble and drink. How many families out there will go out of their way to see this production? I'm guessing a fair amount. If marketed right and the prices are not too extreme this show will be a hot ticket. Actually, strike that, people will give up their children to get a ticket to this show.

Other Broadway shows that landed on the Strip included Avenue Q(closed), Spamalot(still running? not too sure), Mamma Mia(ends its run in January) Phantom (the shortened version of The Phantom of the Opera, still running), The Producers(closed), Hairspray(closed) and my beloved We Will Rock You(closed...sigh)

Does Broadway belong in the desert, especially a place like Las Vegas were it's already a big spectacle. Is Vegas the new Broadway West?

PS-Bring We Will Rock You to Broadway. Seriously, the powers that be, do it!

http://www.playbill.com/news/article/121874.html

Company

2008-10-01T22:00:00.000-04:00

I didn't intend to write a blog on the recent revival of Company but it's something about listening to Raul Esparza sing "Being Alive" that can't be dismissed.

My first encounter with Company was during a semester at Scottsdale Community College. I was taking a History of American Jazz type of class. For some reason I was allowed to do my report on Stephen Sondheim (I don't know how I got to that either) but I researched all of Sonheim's shows, to be honest, not really that familiar with most of his work.

I stumbled upon Company and was confused. So this guy, Bobby/Robert, a bachelor in NYC, turning 35.

Okay.

The show didn't catch my eye until the summer of 2007. (I became ardently obsessed with Sweeney Todd up until then though) I was forunate to see the Broadway revival of Company during it's final week. I didn't know much of the music but I was excited to go. I purchased student tickets that morning and was able to see the matinee...in the front row.

I don't think I've ever been that emotional after a show. I don't mean crying or saddness, I mean, feeling and experiencing different emotions. I remember calling my friend Amanda after the show and telling her, I don't know if I should cry, vomit, laugh, dance, run, or do other activities. I was such a smorgasbord of emotions afterwards but all in a good way.

While in no way am I a 35 year old bachelor in NYC or in a marriage like many of the characters, I still connected with the show.

I'm going to devote this next blub to Raul Esparza who is just phenomenal in all aspects of the show. I remember sitting there with eyes wide open and smiling like a weirdo just drinking in his amazing vocals and acting. In my humble opinion, he deserved that Tony. I didn't see Curtains, so I have no real view on David Hyde Pierce's performance but I'm pretty sure I threw things at the TV when Raul lost. (and again last June for The Homecoming. He pretty much deserved an award just for his reactions during Xanadu's performance...anyone anyone?)

So to conclude this rambling entry, Company was amazng. I recall one of the actresses at stage door talking to her friend saying, "Look at how these kids [the students who rushed for front row were all at the stage door] identify with this show. It's not just for adults." It's one of those overheard quotes that has always stuck with me. And absolutely true.

If this for some reason has caused you to want to view this production - you can! PBS filmed it, and it is now available on DVD. Netflix it, buy it, love it! Enjoy.

Raul and me after the matinee June 2007.

"Who will I take care of?"

Legally Brown: The Search For The Next Piragua Guy

2008-09-30T15:14:00.000-04:00

I don't think I've ever laughed so hard.

Watching the first YouTube video of Legally Brown: The Search For the Next Piragua Guy is like a jolt of energy that tickles your funny bone and makes you want to do a happy dance.
No kidding.

This playful series written and directed by Lin-Manuel Miranda, the creator of In The Heights, is a spoof of MTV's summer snooze, Legally Blonde: The Search For the Next Elle Woods (omg, that takes forever to write out, you're correct Seth Rudetsky).

For Brown, instead of looking for the next Usnavi or Benny, they dig deeper, who can be the next Piragua guy, the scene stealing belter who sells the ensemble icees throughout the show.

Hunter's Condition.
I love how you can tell Seth is cracking up while playing the piano.

Matthew Morrison, Boricua Bad Boy
Definitely my favorite of the videos. haha

At the beginning, my vote was for Mathew Morrison because well, come on.
But as events unfold, only the best man who can serve the icee with ease, agility and spanish will win, stay tuned to see who becomes...the next Piragua guy!

Somewhere - The Palace Theatre, that's where!

2008-09-28T23:27:00.000-04:00

West Side Story has a homecoming date and residence. The revival will open on March 19, 2009 at the Palace Theatre, the current home of Legally Blonde. This production will be directed by the librettist Arthur Laurents (who recently mounted the Encores! and Broadway production of Gypsy with Patti Lupone).

"This show will be radically different from any other production of WEST SIDE STORY ever done. The musical theatre and cultural conventions of 1957 made it next to impossible for the characters to have authenticity. Every member of both gangs was always a potential killer even then. Now they actually will be. Only Tony and Maria try to live in a different world" said Arthur Laurents.

The producers are the team Seller and McCollum, among others. They're the ones who brought you In The Heights, Avenue A and Rent.

The production will have a try out in Washington D.C. before heading north for Times Square.

Okay, let's face it: I'm excited. Partly, because I have never seen a live production of this show and hopefully this will be really killer and authentic. Will Puerto Ricans really be Puerto Ricans on stage? Does that matter to the audience? As long as they can sing the Bernstein and Sondheim score?

For me, it's as long as the mambo dance scene is epic.

http://www.broadwayworld.com/viewcolumn.cfm?colid=33236

Legally Blonde - Closing

2008-09-24T20:35:00.001-04:00

Another day, another closure.
This time it's for the blondes.

Legally Blonde opened spring 2007 and will officially close on October 19. The show plays at the Palace Theatre in the heart of Times Square. While I have never seen the production, I did watch the MTV broadcast as well as the "Search For The New Elle Woods" show this summer.

I have heard rumors that the new production of West Side Story is eyeing the Palace Theatre when it returns to Broadway in the spring. We shall see.

Bend and Snap people!

http://www.playbill.com/news/article/121695.html

Spiderman....The Musical?

2008-09-23T23:02:00.000-04:00

We have Shrek.
We have Mary Poppins.
We have Dr. Frankenstein and his monster.
We have flying witches.
What else does Broadway need?
Oh but of course.
A superhero!

Grumblings around the Broadway community this past summer have heard casting calls for the new Julie Taymor musical....Spiderman!
Now, when I first heard this news....cue the....eye roll.
But learning that Julie Taymor is attached could make this all very interesting. This could potentionally go in the way of The Lion King or into the direction I am sure many would not like, The Times They Are A-Changin.

But let me ask the question - does Broadway need this show? Are there target demographics out there that have yet to be touched by the already broad spectrum of musicals on Broadway? My answer would be yes and no. This, to my knowledge, is the first an actual superhero will be attached to a musical. Although there aren't many "guy shows" on Broadway (although High Fidelity came to as close as that), will the knowledge of a Superman musical really put men in the seats? Will this be the first show where a man will turn to his spouse or girlfriend or partner and say, "Oh boy! Let's shell out $120 a ticket to see this spectacle on Broadway!"

Oh yes, the music. Who is doing the score....none other than Bono and the Edge of U2. Do they rank higher on the cool factor than say Elton John and Tim Rice (thank you very much Aida)? Will having Bono's ultra cool name attached to this project boost the interest of that male target? As usual, we will have to wait and see how they plan to market....oh yeah and stage this monster of a show.

http://www.playbill.com/news/article/121624.html

Xanadu Skating Off Earlier

2008-09-23T22:12:00.001-04:00

Xanadu will now end its run at the Helen Hayes Theatre September 28.
Damn the current economic crunch!

[title of show] & Xanadu to close

2008-09-20T21:02:00.000-04:00

The Broadway musicals, [title of show] and Xanadu are set to close on October 12th.

Xanadu opened July 2007 and had a healthy run, with four Tony nominations. I had the pleasure of seeing the show in October 2007 (where a petite Barbara Walters sat in front of me) and laughed my arse off for 90 minutes. I remember not knowing what to expect from the show, having never seen the infamous movie, but curious about the show due to its hot pink advertisements outside the Helen Hayes Theatre (I'm not joking). I've been wanting to see it again, for the pure fact that's it's just a fun show. Kerry Butler is amazing, and I was crossing my fingers for her at the Tonys back in June. Oh, and Cheyanne Jackson, yeah, I think everyone agrees when I say, most deserving of a Tony nom.

Moving onto [tos] as it's affectionately called by its fans. I recall hearing about this show back in it's off-broadway run, having a few friends who had been smitten by it. It's opening this July generated a lot of online buzz. Unfortunately, that didn't seem to cross over into the Lyceum Theatre (where I saw Is He Dead? ...amazing!). I had been planning on seeing the show as soon as I figured out my fall schedule but times are rough, even on Broadway, and the producers posted notice of its closing next month. See me....dashing to Broadwayoffers.com to pick up an orchestra seat for October 2. My first and only time but I truly hope, a memorable one.

According to an article I read last week, there will be 22 new productions this Broadway season. I don't have the stats on last year's season but that seems to be quite a lot. I hope Broadway can handle our current economic crunch and audiences will still flock to see the new and old on the Great White Way. When "little musicals that could" like, [title of show] and Xanadu close, it makes me wonder if the bigger shows like, A Tale of Two Cities and the up and coming Billy Elliot, are a few factors that crush the little guys. Would [tos] still be playing if it was on the west side of Broadway and in a smaller house? Did they need more print advertising? And most importantly, will Cheyanne Jackson be in the tour of Xanadu and wear those short shorts?

http://www.playbill.com/news/article/121399.html
http://www.playbill.com/news/article/121557.html
http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=94469424

i wish you could see me, i'm looking so silly

2008-09-17T23:32:00.000-04:00

My birthday was this past Monday and there was no better way then spend an evening listening to lovely music.
I've been a fan of John Gallagher Jr. even before I was able to see Spring Awakening over the summer of 2007. I listened to Old Springs Pike and then in turn, Johnny's solo music.
I never had the honor of watching him perform his own music, until this past Sunday at the Highline Ballroom in NYC.
His music is pretty incredible; of the heart.
His lyrics are beautiful; rhapsodic.

I can't wait to see the play Farragut North in November at the Atlantic Theatre Company. A political thriller drama....sounds good!

it's a list; it's a gift

2008-09-13T01:46:00.001-04:00

musicals i've seen.
as of June 2009

Hello, Dolly! (with the one and only carol channing)
The Phantom of the Opera (3)
Thoroughly Modern Millie (2)
The Sound of Music
Rent (12)
We Will Rock You; Vegas (8)
Hairspray
Les Miserables (4)
The Producers
Kiss Me, Kate
Mamma Mia
Aida (2)
42nd Street
Caberat
The Lion King
Urinetown
Joseph...
Sweeney Todd (3)
The Drowsy Chaperone
Wicked
Dirty Rotten Scoundrels
Chicago
tick, tick...BOOM! (2)
The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee
Chita Rivera: A Dancer's Life
Jesus Christ Superstar
Altar Boyz (2)
Love, Janis
The Light In The Piazza
Company
Spring Awakening (8)
Xanadu
Is He Dead? (Play)
In The Heights (5)
South Pacific - Bway Revival
The Wedding Singer
My Fair Lady
[title of show]
Gypsy w/ Patti Lupone
13
HAIR (2)
Next To Normal
Rooms
Everyday Rapture

Mark Your Calendars!

2008-09-11T20:35:00.001-04:00

The Tony Awards will be held June 7, 2009.
The event will once again be televised on CBS.

This season should be an exciting one, with new shows and revivals taking stage. It's shaping up to be a good season!

Hippie Life....to live on Broadway again!

2008-09-11T20:16:00.000-04:00

Tommar Wilson and Will Swenson.

With the recent smash success of HAIR, presented by the Shakespeare in the Park this summer it was a no-brainer that it would transfer to a Broadway house soon. Spring 2009 will see the revival with casting, dates and house to be announced.

This very exciting news to hippies and non-hippies alike. Three extensions of the current version of HAIR, a recent outing in September 2007, and the Actor's Fund Benefit in 2004, what has taken Broadway so long to embrace the epic show? Is it midtown's lack of accessible theatres, location, talent, money? It seems, hopefully, all will fall in place next Spring and a new generation will be exposed to a classic.

Will Jonathan Groff reprise his role as Claude, or will Christopher Hanke take the reins, perhaps a new casting choice? Will Caren Lyn Manuel, Karen Olivo or another actress belt the role of Sheila?

source:
http://www.playbill.com/news/article/121169.html

Goodbye, Love....Hello World.

2008-09-11T01:05:00.000-04:00

On Sunday, September 7, the final curtain was called on Jonathan Larson's RENT.

I start my Broadway blog, Midtown Utopia, with this poignant event. To say that RENT changed my life would be quite the understatement. I went to see the Benny Tour in Tempe, AZ in March of 2000 on a Sunday. The matinee had me sitting in the first tier of Gammage Auditorium eagerly waiting what I was about to watch. I had no idea what to expect or what, almost 9 years later, would do to my life.

There are only a few moments of that very first show that I can clearly remember. I recall telling my friend at intermission, as we were eating peanut M&Ms that Angel was my favorite and that I couldn't wait to see how it would all pan out. After, my mom purchased the cast recording and I soon had the cd in constant rotation. So much, that it became scratched and would have to be replaced many times. I can recall sitting on my bed, leafing through the the libretto, reading the names of the cast members and picturing how it would look on stage at the Nederlander on Broadway. How intimate the show must feel in such a small house, on such a small stage. How the energy must be bouncing off the walls during La Vie Boheme, how I'll Cover You: Reprise must bring the house down every night, how people must be exclaiming how much they enjoyed the show as they spilled out on 41st street.

As I said earlier, almost 9 years later, and I have been very lucky to see many incarnations of my beloved show. So many different casts, so many different takes on one single line, one single laugh, one single melody, had really taken over how much I enjoyed live theatre. Before RENT, I only had a few shows under my viewing belt. I knew The Phantom of the Opera, I had been able to see Carol Channing in Helly, Dolly but with RENT, it was special. It was different. It was life. It was death. It was funny. It was sad. It was me. And I could not wait to be a part of it somehow.

Since moving to the east coast for school I have been lucky enough to see many new shows open on Broadway. Yet in a way I feel like I've always neglicated that green building. I had only seen RENT in October with Anthony Rapp (Adam Pascal was out that matinee and I was able to see Luther Creek, amazing btw). I guess what I'm getting at, is that is my real regret. I know I'm supposed to "Forget, regret or life is yours to miss." But if I could turn back the clocks, I would have loved to have seen more performances, espcially would have loved to seen Caren Lyn Manuel as Mimi or Maureen. (love love love her!)

So to know that I had tickets to attend the last performance on Broadway was suprisingly bittersweet. Going into the theatre, I had mini spazz attacks because I kept noticing people left and right. And these people I had never seen before in person, these people were my Broadway idols. To know that they appreciated the life and work and integrity of the show meant everything. To be in attendance was just flabbergasting. I am so thankful for everything.

So to come to a close on my first entry, thanks for reading. I'm not sure what to expect from this blog but who knows. The gentleman sitting in front of my friend and I on Sunday turned around and told me I should start a blog. No joke. So here I am. Starting my first Broadway blog. Enjoy!
ps- If you are wondering why I choose to call this blog "Midtown Utopia", I do have a reason. Junior year in high school, we were asked to bring in something that reflected what we felt was our "Utopia". At the height of my RENT craze, I brought in a plywood board, of Midtown New York City. I had styrofoam buildings with the logo of the show on them and in correct position as they are in real life...my utopia.