Saturday, October 28, 2006
Theater Skate
I went skating last night at Wood 'N Wheels in Port Ewen, along with a few members of the cast of Oliver! I think it's safe to say we all had a good time. I'll have to try and organize something else - it's nice to get together after the show.
Problems with Blogger
Anyone who uses Blogger knows what a difficult week it has been. I've not been posting because I kept running into issues every time I tried. Hopefully the technical difficulties will be over for a while.
Wednesday, October 25, 2006
Mid Hudson Valley Theater Events October 2006
On Stage this weekend in the mid hudson valley. We have two shows Wizard of Oz, a musical and Hamlet a classic drama. I want to catch Hamlet, but I'm not sure if that will happen this weekend or not. Grab a friend and go see a show.
Wizard of Oz
October 27, 28, November 3, 4, 2006 at 7:30 PM
October 28, 2006 at 2:00 PM
Pawling Theatre Company
Pawling High School Auditorium
Reservoir Road, Pawling, NY
William Shakespeare’s Hamlet
October 26, 27, 28, November 2, 3, 4 at 8:00 PM
October 29, November 5 at 3:00 PM
Up In One Productions
The Center for Performing Arts in Rhinebeck
Route 308
Rhinebeck, NY
Call: (845) 876-3080
Technorati tags: Hudson valley theater Broadway Music Musicals Blog Theater Hudson Valley Community Theater Movie Musicals Blogs Entertainment
Monday, October 23, 2006
More Local Socially Concientious Theater
"There is Hope", a play about Domestic Violence is going to be raising funds and awareness for House of Faith Ministry, Inc, a group who provides support, workshops and group homes for people who have suffered from domestic abuse.
"There is Hope"
October 27, 2006 7:00 PM
Beacon High School, Matteawan Road
More on Socially Conscientious Theater:
9-28-06 The Oliver! Project - Local Social Conscientious Theater
9-28-06 Socially Conscientious Theater
Technorati tags: Hudson valley theater Broadway Music Musicals Blog Theater Hudson Valley Community Theater Movie Musicals Blogs Entertainment
"There is Hope"
October 27, 2006 7:00 PM
Beacon High School, Matteawan Road
More on Socially Conscientious Theater:
9-28-06 The Oliver! Project - Local Social Conscientious Theater
9-28-06 Socially Conscientious Theater
Technorati tags: Hudson valley theater Broadway Music Musicals Blog Theater Hudson Valley Community Theater Movie Musicals Blogs Entertainment
More Oliver Reviews
Most of our Oliver! reviews weren't posted online - but here is another one from a fellow blogger and friend of mine: May I Have Some More?
You can also read the review Gale wrote: Oliver! Review
We also did spectacularly with the fund raising for The Oliver! Project. Thanks to all the people who gave so generously, and supported our efforts.
Previously:
10-22-06 Last Day of Oliver!
10-19-06 Oliver Review
10-17-06The Oliver Project Tonight
10-15-06 Another Solid Weekend of Oliver!
10-7-06 Opening Night of Oliver!
10-6-06 Oliver! Opens Tonight
9-29-06 The Oliver Project - Gala Event October 19, 2006
9-28-06 The Oliver! Project - Local Social Conscientious Theater
9-28-06 Socially Conscientious Theater
Technorati tags: Hudson valley theater Broadway Music Musicals Blog Theater Hudson Valley Community Theater Movie Musicals Blogs Entertainment
You can also read the review Gale wrote: Oliver! Review
We also did spectacularly with the fund raising for The Oliver! Project. Thanks to all the people who gave so generously, and supported our efforts.
Previously:
10-22-06 Last Day of Oliver!
10-19-06 Oliver Review
10-17-06The Oliver Project Tonight
10-15-06 Another Solid Weekend of Oliver!
10-7-06 Opening Night of Oliver!
10-6-06 Oliver! Opens Tonight
9-29-06 The Oliver Project - Gala Event October 19, 2006
9-28-06 The Oliver! Project - Local Social Conscientious Theater
9-28-06 Socially Conscientious Theater
Technorati tags: Hudson valley theater Broadway Music Musicals Blog Theater Hudson Valley Community Theater Movie Musicals Blogs Entertainment
Sunday, October 22, 2006
Last Day of Oliver!
Today is the last performance of Oliver! I am going to miss this cast - they are a great goup of people. My parents, sister and grandparents are coming today to the show, so I'm pretty excited about it.
I'll be really glad to get my life back - the last 10 weeks have been intense! But, I'll certainly miss everyone. Today we're having the cast party - a brunch, due to our 5 shows this weekend. I'm pretty pleased with my performances, despite the fact I twisted my ankle on Friday before the performance. I hope today goes well, nothing like ending with a bang. Break a leg guys - one last time! (Below I'm in the back, just right of center - this is my favorite number in the show)
I'll be really glad to get my life back - the last 10 weeks have been intense! But, I'll certainly miss everyone. Today we're having the cast party - a brunch, due to our 5 shows this weekend. I'm pretty pleased with my performances, despite the fact I twisted my ankle on Friday before the performance. I hope today goes well, nothing like ending with a bang. Break a leg guys - one last time! (Below I'm in the back, just right of center - this is my favorite number in the show)
Thursday, October 19, 2006
Oliver Review
Having been both behind the scenes, as an actor and a director, as well as a spectator of theater, I find myself watching theater differently then I did before I was involved backstage. In general, when I watch a show (especially amateur theater) I find myself thinking, “How would I feel if I were that actor?” or “What might I have done differently as director?”
When I watched “Oliver” last Friday, I did not consider any of those questions. Instead, I thought “How on earth did he get all those young boys to sing with an English accent?”, etc. It was awesome for me to be able to simply watch theater as a spectator, as I can only do while watching a professional production or a well done movie. Indeed, I’m not sure I’ve ever been so fully absorbed by the story during a community theater production.
Considering the possibility of incredibly complicated and drawn out scene changes, I have to say that the set design was fantastic. In general, set piece moves were completed as the action was ongoing, being incorporated into the background action in such a way that they were noticeable but not detracting at all. Personally I found it fascinating (from a director’s point of view) to watch how it all fit together. As an engineer, I marvel at the ingenuity.
The acting was excellent, from the smallest of the boys to the eldest of the adults. My particular favorites (in no particular order) were Oliver, The Artful Dodger, Fagin, Nancy, and Bill Sykes. There was also a rather small young lady who had an impressively large voice… unfortunately I don’t know her name, but if you see the show you’ll know who I’m talking about. The ensemble was also excellent.
I also loved the costumes… many of them really conveyed a feeling about the character, or a mood to the scene, as they are meant to do but is rarely accomplished in community theater. I have similar comments about the lighting – it set the mood, was appropriate and only served to add to the effect of the show. The sound was also amazing; all of the actors could be heard quite clearly, even Oliver when he was inside a coffin. There was also no distracting amplification (where an actor’s voice is obviously coming from speakers and not from himself). Honestly, I’m still curious about how that was accomplished!
My only complaint about the show, actually, is the final scene – filled with very effective horrific imagery (I mean that as a compliment), the happiness in the end is almost lost. Perhaps that is how the director meant it to be, I’m not sure.
My hat goes off to Herman Sebek for creating such an impressive show; it is never easy to put on a fantastic show with so many (important!) children actors, let alone one of such magnitude. Really, “Oliver” was the most impressive work of theatrical art that I have ever seen off of Broadway. Excellent job.
When I watched “Oliver” last Friday, I did not consider any of those questions. Instead, I thought “How on earth did he get all those young boys to sing with an English accent?”, etc. It was awesome for me to be able to simply watch theater as a spectator, as I can only do while watching a professional production or a well done movie. Indeed, I’m not sure I’ve ever been so fully absorbed by the story during a community theater production.
Considering the possibility of incredibly complicated and drawn out scene changes, I have to say that the set design was fantastic. In general, set piece moves were completed as the action was ongoing, being incorporated into the background action in such a way that they were noticeable but not detracting at all. Personally I found it fascinating (from a director’s point of view) to watch how it all fit together. As an engineer, I marvel at the ingenuity.
The acting was excellent, from the smallest of the boys to the eldest of the adults. My particular favorites (in no particular order) were Oliver, The Artful Dodger, Fagin, Nancy, and Bill Sykes. There was also a rather small young lady who had an impressively large voice… unfortunately I don’t know her name, but if you see the show you’ll know who I’m talking about. The ensemble was also excellent.
I also loved the costumes… many of them really conveyed a feeling about the character, or a mood to the scene, as they are meant to do but is rarely accomplished in community theater. I have similar comments about the lighting – it set the mood, was appropriate and only served to add to the effect of the show. The sound was also amazing; all of the actors could be heard quite clearly, even Oliver when he was inside a coffin. There was also no distracting amplification (where an actor’s voice is obviously coming from speakers and not from himself). Honestly, I’m still curious about how that was accomplished!
My only complaint about the show, actually, is the final scene – filled with very effective horrific imagery (I mean that as a compliment), the happiness in the end is almost lost. Perhaps that is how the director meant it to be, I’m not sure.
My hat goes off to Herman Sebek for creating such an impressive show; it is never easy to put on a fantastic show with so many (important!) children actors, let alone one of such magnitude. Really, “Oliver” was the most impressive work of theatrical art that I have ever seen off of Broadway. Excellent job.
Wednesday, October 18, 2006
On Stage Theater Listings for the Mid Hudson Valley October 18, 2006
This weekend offers two musicals perfect for this time of year. Come out and see the Wizard of Oz and Oliver! Also if you are available Oliver! is having it's Gala performance tomorrow night with all funds going to Human Rights Watch.
Oliver!
October 19, 20, 21 at 8:00 PM
October 22 at 3:00 PM
Rhinebeck Theatre Society
The Center for Performing Arts in Rhinebeck
Route 308
Rhinebeck, NY
Call: (845) 876-3080
Wizard of Oz
October 20, 21, 27, 28, November 3, 4, 2006 at 7:30 PM
October 28, 2006 at 2:00 PM
Pawling Theatre Company
Pawling High School Auditorium
Reservoir Road,
Pawling, NY
Technorati tags: Hudson valley theater Broadway Music Musicals Blog Theater Hudson Valley Community Theater Movie Musicals Blogs Entertainment
Oliver!
October 19, 20, 21 at 8:00 PM
October 22 at 3:00 PM
Rhinebeck Theatre Society
The Center for Performing Arts in Rhinebeck
Route 308
Rhinebeck, NY
Call: (845) 876-3080
Wizard of Oz
October 20, 21, 27, 28, November 3, 4, 2006 at 7:30 PM
October 28, 2006 at 2:00 PM
Pawling Theatre Company
Pawling High School Auditorium
Reservoir Road,
Pawling, NY
Technorati tags: Hudson valley theater Broadway Music Musicals Blog Theater Hudson Valley Community Theater Movie Musicals Blogs Entertainment
Broadway Shows Previewing and Opening in 2006
This year has gone by so fast! Here it is October already and we're heading towards the end of the year. Broadway has an amazing assortment of offerings that will be strating between now and the end of the the year. Here's what is in store!
BUTLEY is Huntington Theatre Company revival of Simon Gray's drama about a literary professor who loses his wife and lover. Playing at the Booth Theatre, previews start October 5, 2006 and the Show Opens October 25, 2006. Directed by Nicholas Martin, the cast includes Nathan Lane, Dana Ivey, Pamela Gray, James McMenamin, and Julian Ovenden.
THE TIMES THEY ARE A-CHANGIN' is Tharp's new dance musical which weaves a story using Bob Dylan's songs. Currently in previews at the Brooks Atkinson Theatre, the show opens October 26, 2006. Directed and Choreographed by Twyla Tharp, the cast includes Michael Arden, Thom Sesma, Caren Lyn Manuel, and John Selya.
GREY GARDENS is currently in previews at the Walter Kerr Theatre. The show will be Opening on November 2, 2006. Directed by Michael Greif and featuring a cast of Christine Ebersole and Mary-Louise Wilson. This show is the Transfer of the Playwrights Horizons' musical tale of misfit mother-and-daughter socialites.
THE COAST OF UTOPIA is the Lincoln Center Theater's U.S. premiere of Tom Stoppard's sprawling trilogy of plays. Playing at the Vivian Beaumont Theater it is currently in previews and will be opening Voyage (November 5, 2006), Shipwreck (December 21, 2006), Salvage (Febuary 15, 2007) Directed by Jack O'Brien and featuring Brian F. O'Byrne.
DR. SEUSS' HOW THE GRINCH STOLE CHRISTMAS! — THE MUSICAL is the Timothy Mason and Mel Marvin's musical take on the holiday tale of a greedy green creature. Playing at the Hilton Theatre previews start October 25, 2006 with it's official opening on November 8, 2006. Grinch is Directed by Matt August and Choreographed by John DeLuca.
LES MISÉRABLES A six-month return engagement of the Alain Boublil and Claude-Michel Schönberg musical based on the epic Victor Hugo novel. Running at the Broadhurst Theatre the first preview is October 24, 2006 and it will open November 9, 2006. Directed by Trevor Nunn and John Caird, this cast includes Alexander Gemignani, Norm Lewis, Daphne Rubin-Vega, and Gary Beach.
THE LITTLE DOG LAUGHED is the transfer of Second Stage Theatre's Douglas Carter Beane Hollywood-set comedy. It will be playing at the Cort Theatre. Previews start October 26, 2006 and Opens November 13, 2006. Directed by Scott Elli, and featuring in the cast Julie White, Tom Everett Scott and Johnny Galecki.
MARY POPPINS at The New Amsterdam Theatre is Disney and Cameron Mackinstosh's musical based on the film featuring Richard M. and Robert B. Sherman's score with new material from George Stiles and Anthony Drewe. Mary Poppins is currently in previews and will Open November 16, 2006. It is Directed by Richard Eyre and Matthew Bourne, Choreographed by Matthew Bourne and Stephen Mear. The cast includes Ashley Brown, Gavin Lee.
COMPANY will start previews on October 30, 2006 at the Barrymore Theatre. Opening November 29, 2006 and Directed by John Doyle and including in the cast Raúl Esparza, Barbara Walsh. Company is Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park's unique staging of Stephen Sondheim'smusical where the cast doubles as musicians.
THE VERTICAL HOUR at the Music Box Theatre will Open November 30, 2006. Directed by Sam Mendes it is the world premiere of David Hare's new play about which centers on a former American war correspondent who now teaches Political Studies at Yale.
HIGH FIDELITY begins previews on November 20, 2006 at the Imperial Theatre. Directed by Walter Bobbie and Choreographed by Christopher Gattelli, this Tom Kitt, Amanda Green and David Lindsay-Abaire's new musical based on the Nick Hornby novel about a lovelorn man, will open December 7, 2006.
SPRING AWAKENING, The transfer of the Atlantic Theater Company's Duncan Sheik-Steven Sater rock musical based on the 1891 troubled teen drama will be at the Eugene O'Neill Theatre. It starts previews November 17, 2006 and will Open December 10, 2006. Directed by Michael Mayer and Choreographed by Bill T. Jones, the cast includes Skylar Astin, Lilli Cooper, John Gallagher Jr., Jonathan Groff, and Lea Michele.
THE APPLE TREE at Studio 54 is the Roundabout Theatre Company's revival of the Jerry Bock-Sheldon Harnick musical based on the 2005 run at City Center Encores! Previews Start November 28, 2006 with the opening scheduled for December 14, 2006. The Apple Tree is Directed by Gary Griffin and Choreographed by Andy Blankenbuehler
BUTLEY is Huntington Theatre Company revival of Simon Gray's drama about a literary professor who loses his wife and lover. Playing at the Booth Theatre, previews start October 5, 2006 and the Show Opens October 25, 2006. Directed by Nicholas Martin, the cast includes Nathan Lane, Dana Ivey, Pamela Gray, James McMenamin, and Julian Ovenden.
THE TIMES THEY ARE A-CHANGIN' is Tharp's new dance musical which weaves a story using Bob Dylan's songs. Currently in previews at the Brooks Atkinson Theatre, the show opens October 26, 2006. Directed and Choreographed by Twyla Tharp, the cast includes Michael Arden, Thom Sesma, Caren Lyn Manuel, and John Selya.
GREY GARDENS is currently in previews at the Walter Kerr Theatre. The show will be Opening on November 2, 2006. Directed by Michael Greif and featuring a cast of Christine Ebersole and Mary-Louise Wilson. This show is the Transfer of the Playwrights Horizons' musical tale of misfit mother-and-daughter socialites.
THE COAST OF UTOPIA is the Lincoln Center Theater's U.S. premiere of Tom Stoppard's sprawling trilogy of plays. Playing at the Vivian Beaumont Theater it is currently in previews and will be opening Voyage (November 5, 2006), Shipwreck (December 21, 2006), Salvage (Febuary 15, 2007) Directed by Jack O'Brien and featuring Brian F. O'Byrne.
DR. SEUSS' HOW THE GRINCH STOLE CHRISTMAS! — THE MUSICAL is the Timothy Mason and Mel Marvin's musical take on the holiday tale of a greedy green creature. Playing at the Hilton Theatre previews start October 25, 2006 with it's official opening on November 8, 2006. Grinch is Directed by Matt August and Choreographed by John DeLuca.
LES MISÉRABLES A six-month return engagement of the Alain Boublil and Claude-Michel Schönberg musical based on the epic Victor Hugo novel. Running at the Broadhurst Theatre the first preview is October 24, 2006 and it will open November 9, 2006. Directed by Trevor Nunn and John Caird, this cast includes Alexander Gemignani, Norm Lewis, Daphne Rubin-Vega, and Gary Beach.
THE LITTLE DOG LAUGHED is the transfer of Second Stage Theatre's Douglas Carter Beane Hollywood-set comedy. It will be playing at the Cort Theatre. Previews start October 26, 2006 and Opens November 13, 2006. Directed by Scott Elli, and featuring in the cast Julie White, Tom Everett Scott and Johnny Galecki.
MARY POPPINS at The New Amsterdam Theatre is Disney and Cameron Mackinstosh's musical based on the film featuring Richard M. and Robert B. Sherman's score with new material from George Stiles and Anthony Drewe. Mary Poppins is currently in previews and will Open November 16, 2006. It is Directed by Richard Eyre and Matthew Bourne, Choreographed by Matthew Bourne and Stephen Mear. The cast includes Ashley Brown, Gavin Lee.
COMPANY will start previews on October 30, 2006 at the Barrymore Theatre. Opening November 29, 2006 and Directed by John Doyle and including in the cast Raúl Esparza, Barbara Walsh. Company is Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park's unique staging of Stephen Sondheim'smusical where the cast doubles as musicians.
THE VERTICAL HOUR at the Music Box Theatre will Open November 30, 2006. Directed by Sam Mendes it is the world premiere of David Hare's new play about which centers on a former American war correspondent who now teaches Political Studies at Yale.
HIGH FIDELITY begins previews on November 20, 2006 at the Imperial Theatre. Directed by Walter Bobbie and Choreographed by Christopher Gattelli, this Tom Kitt, Amanda Green and David Lindsay-Abaire's new musical based on the Nick Hornby novel about a lovelorn man, will open December 7, 2006.
SPRING AWAKENING, The transfer of the Atlantic Theater Company's Duncan Sheik-Steven Sater rock musical based on the 1891 troubled teen drama will be at the Eugene O'Neill Theatre. It starts previews November 17, 2006 and will Open December 10, 2006. Directed by Michael Mayer and Choreographed by Bill T. Jones, the cast includes Skylar Astin, Lilli Cooper, John Gallagher Jr., Jonathan Groff, and Lea Michele.
THE APPLE TREE at Studio 54 is the Roundabout Theatre Company's revival of the Jerry Bock-Sheldon Harnick musical based on the 2005 run at City Center Encores! Previews Start November 28, 2006 with the opening scheduled for December 14, 2006. The Apple Tree is Directed by Gary Griffin and Choreographed by Andy Blankenbuehler
Mary Poppins a Scary Tale?
Mary Poppins the Musical has been adapted to the stage, as with most adaptations this means some changes to the dialog and score. There has been some interesting dialog on how this show is lighter then the London production, but still has some moments that are scaring children.
From the NY Post: "WHEN "Mary Poppins" opened in London two years ago, producer Cameron Mackintosh announced that the show - which would seem to be the very definition of "family entertainment" - was "not intended for children under 7."
"There is one production number, a holdover from London, that's still scaring the kids and baffling their parents.
Called "Temper, Temper," it occurs just before the end of the first act. Mary Poppins has temporarily deserted her petulant charges, Jane and Michael Banks, leaving them alone in their nursery. Suddenly, a sinister red hand pokes out from the window of a doll house. A gigantic, evil-looking rag doll then emerges from the doll house, ready to exact revenge on Jane and Michael for abusing their toys.
Soon all of the toys, looking as if they were designed by zombie horror movie-maker George Romero and acting like graduates of the John Wayne Gacy School of Clowning, come to life.
Jane and Michael are put on trial and condemned for their sins against the toys.
On Saturday night, one little girl in the audience was so frightened, she crawled into her mother's lap.
Another mother put her arm around her daughter and asked: "Are you all right?"
The audience seemed a bit stunned by the number, unable to adjust to the sudden change in the tone of the show."
This wasn't one of the legendary producer's cannier marketing ploys (wags immediately dubbed the show "Scary Poppins"), but the truth: The stage musical was much darker in tone than the beloved Walt Disney movie and contained a few scenes that were downright creepy."
The following are reviews from the london production.
From The Stage "Two of the duo’s numbers also accompany scarier sequences for children - a gang of angry toys warning Jane and Michael not to lose their tempers and Mr Banks’ own termagant nanny returning to a very mixed welcome. Who knows whether these aspects of Julian Fellowes’ adaptation, inspired by the original PL Travers books, will upset those expecting a straight translation of screen to stage."
From London Theatre "Stiles and Drewe capture the same magical melodic simplicity of the Sherman Brother’s with the delightful tune ”Practically Perfect”, but not so with the remainder of their songs. The songs “Temper, Temper”, and ‘Brimstone and Treacle’, are ones I doubt any child will be humming after the show."
Previously:
10-15-06 Mary Poppins on Broadway
tags: Hudson valley theater Broadway Music Musicals Blog Theater Hudson Valley Community Theater Blogs Entertainment
From the NY Post: "WHEN "Mary Poppins" opened in London two years ago, producer Cameron Mackintosh announced that the show - which would seem to be the very definition of "family entertainment" - was "not intended for children under 7."
"There is one production number, a holdover from London, that's still scaring the kids and baffling their parents.
Called "Temper, Temper," it occurs just before the end of the first act. Mary Poppins has temporarily deserted her petulant charges, Jane and Michael Banks, leaving them alone in their nursery. Suddenly, a sinister red hand pokes out from the window of a doll house. A gigantic, evil-looking rag doll then emerges from the doll house, ready to exact revenge on Jane and Michael for abusing their toys.
Soon all of the toys, looking as if they were designed by zombie horror movie-maker George Romero and acting like graduates of the John Wayne Gacy School of Clowning, come to life.
Jane and Michael are put on trial and condemned for their sins against the toys.
On Saturday night, one little girl in the audience was so frightened, she crawled into her mother's lap.
Another mother put her arm around her daughter and asked: "Are you all right?"
The audience seemed a bit stunned by the number, unable to adjust to the sudden change in the tone of the show."
This wasn't one of the legendary producer's cannier marketing ploys (wags immediately dubbed the show "Scary Poppins"), but the truth: The stage musical was much darker in tone than the beloved Walt Disney movie and contained a few scenes that were downright creepy."
The following are reviews from the london production.
From The Stage "Two of the duo’s numbers also accompany scarier sequences for children - a gang of angry toys warning Jane and Michael not to lose their tempers and Mr Banks’ own termagant nanny returning to a very mixed welcome. Who knows whether these aspects of Julian Fellowes’ adaptation, inspired by the original PL Travers books, will upset those expecting a straight translation of screen to stage."
From London Theatre "Stiles and Drewe capture the same magical melodic simplicity of the Sherman Brother’s with the delightful tune ”Practically Perfect”, but not so with the remainder of their songs. The songs “Temper, Temper”, and ‘Brimstone and Treacle’, are ones I doubt any child will be humming after the show."
Previously:
10-15-06 Mary Poppins on Broadway
tags: Hudson valley theater Broadway Music Musicals Blog Theater Hudson Valley Community Theater Blogs Entertainment
Tuesday, October 17, 2006
Mis-Quotes and other Tall tales
It's been a while since we've discussed this topic - how marketing people are using 'Contextomy' (defined here) to rewrite blurbs for Broadway (and off-Broadway) productions. You've seen them "Brilliant!" or "Thrilling!" - my general rule of thumb has always been the shorter the blurb is, the less likely it came from a positive review. Not that I'm influenced by the blurb to see the show. The original review could have read "Brilliantly boring" and "If it were only thrilling"
The NYTimes review of A Chorus Line was luke warm at best yet there was an advertisement with the quote from the times reviewer stating:
"What occurs shortly after 8 p.m. at the Schoenfeld Theatre feels so fresh that you stop to catch your breath."
Sounds pretty good huh? but if you read the whole paragraph that the above was Contextomized from
"What occurs shortly after 8 p.m. at the Gerald Schoenfeld Theater, where the otherwise pedestrian new revival of 'A Chorus Line' opened last night, is a sort of time bending that Einstein would have trouble explaining. Light, music and a mass of bodies in motion combine to allow you to exist both in 1975, when this musical was first staged, and 2006. This is what 'A Chorus Line' was when I saw it 31 years ago, and yet it feels so fresh that you stop to catch your breath" read rest of review
It seems a little misleading doesn't it? Well plenty of people have noticed: David Pogue, The Wicked Stage, The Playgoer: Fun with Quotes and Endangered Film Critics
Previously:
6-20-06 More on Blurbs
6-18-06 Critics strike back over Blurbs
Technorati tags: Hudson valley theater Broadway Music Musicals Blog Theater Hudson Valley Community Theater Movie Musicals Blogs Entertainment
The NYTimes review of A Chorus Line was luke warm at best yet there was an advertisement with the quote from the times reviewer stating:
"What occurs shortly after 8 p.m. at the Schoenfeld Theatre feels so fresh that you stop to catch your breath."
Sounds pretty good huh? but if you read the whole paragraph that the above was Contextomized from
"What occurs shortly after 8 p.m. at the Gerald Schoenfeld Theater, where the otherwise pedestrian new revival of 'A Chorus Line' opened last night, is a sort of time bending that Einstein would have trouble explaining. Light, music and a mass of bodies in motion combine to allow you to exist both in 1975, when this musical was first staged, and 2006. This is what 'A Chorus Line' was when I saw it 31 years ago, and yet it feels so fresh that you stop to catch your breath" read rest of review
It seems a little misleading doesn't it? Well plenty of people have noticed: David Pogue, The Wicked Stage, The Playgoer: Fun with Quotes and Endangered Film Critics
Previously:
6-20-06 More on Blurbs
6-18-06 Critics strike back over Blurbs
Technorati tags: Hudson valley theater Broadway Music Musicals Blog Theater Hudson Valley Community Theater Movie Musicals Blogs Entertainment
2007 Tony Awards
Since it's never too early to start thinking about the Tony awards ....
2007 Tony Awards has been set for June 10, 2007 at Radio City Music Hall. The 61st Annual Antoinette Perry "Tony" Awards ceremony will air on CBS - Sunday, June 10 from 8:00 to 11:00 p.m. If you are interested in the History of the Tony awards, I wrote a bit on that awhile ago ...
2007 Tony events:
May 9, 2007 Official Cut-Off date for Tony Eligibility. Broadway shows must officially open on or before this date in order to be eligible for 2007 Tony Awards
May 15, 2007 Tony Award Nominations Announcement.
May 16, 2007 Meet the Nominees Press Reception
May 24, 2007 The Tony Nominees Luncheon, a chance for the nominees to celebrate each other's achievements and receive their nomination certificates.
June 10, 2007 The 61st Annual Tony Awards at Radio City Music Hall. 8:00 PM - 11:00 PM
Technorati tags: Hudson valley theater Broadway Music Musicals Blog Theater Hudson Valley Community Theater Blogs Entertainment
2007 Tony Awards has been set for June 10, 2007 at Radio City Music Hall. The 61st Annual Antoinette Perry "Tony" Awards ceremony will air on CBS - Sunday, June 10 from 8:00 to 11:00 p.m. If you are interested in the History of the Tony awards, I wrote a bit on that awhile ago ...
2007 Tony events:
May 9, 2007 Official Cut-Off date for Tony Eligibility. Broadway shows must officially open on or before this date in order to be eligible for 2007 Tony Awards
May 15, 2007 Tony Award Nominations Announcement.
May 16, 2007 Meet the Nominees Press Reception
May 24, 2007 The Tony Nominees Luncheon, a chance for the nominees to celebrate each other's achievements and receive their nomination certificates.
June 10, 2007 The 61st Annual Tony Awards at Radio City Music Hall. 8:00 PM - 11:00 PM
Technorati tags: Hudson valley theater Broadway Music Musicals Blog Theater Hudson Valley Community Theater Blogs Entertainment
Dreamgirls Movie Musical
I've gotten a personal recommendation that this is going to be wonderful.
Interesting enough it appears that Dreamworks pictures is offering to pay for the licensing fees for any amateur group wanting to stage the musical "dreamgirls" in 2006 you can view the details here: (under amateur stage production info)
Here's the trailer, and if you're interested in more background info on the show try here:
Technorati tags: Hudson valley theater Broadway Music Musicals Blog Theater Hudson Valley Community Theater Blogs Entertainment
Interesting enough it appears that Dreamworks pictures is offering to pay for the licensing fees for any amateur group wanting to stage the musical "dreamgirls" in 2006 you can view the details here: (under amateur stage production info)
Here's the trailer, and if you're interested in more background info on the show try here:
Technorati tags: Hudson valley theater Broadway Music Musicals Blog Theater Hudson Valley Community Theater Blogs Entertainment
The Oliver Project Tonight
Tonight a number of the cast members got together and recorded a song ... and made a video for the Gala Thursday. There are still tickets available ... details here
It was an original song that Herman wrote but the whole process reminded me a lot of 'We are the World' (for those of you old enough to remember it - if not, check it out here) It was a beautiful experience we learned the song, then performed it a number of times as both the vocal recording and the video was created. I'm excited to see the finished product Thursday (hopefully I'll be able to sneak a peak while getting ready for the show). I hear a number of interesting people are getting involved, so Thursday should be an exciting evening.
Previously:
10-15-06 Another Solid Weekend of Oliver!
10-7-06 Opening Night of Oliver!
10-6-06 Oliver! Opens Tonight
9-29-06 The Oliver Project - Gala Event October 19, 2006
9-28-06 The Oliver! Project - Local Social Conscientious Theater
9-28-06 Socially Conscientious Theater
Technorati tags: Hudson valley theater Broadway Music Musicals Blog Theater Hudson Valley Community Theater Blogs Entertainment
It was an original song that Herman wrote but the whole process reminded me a lot of 'We are the World' (for those of you old enough to remember it - if not, check it out here) It was a beautiful experience we learned the song, then performed it a number of times as both the vocal recording and the video was created. I'm excited to see the finished product Thursday (hopefully I'll be able to sneak a peak while getting ready for the show). I hear a number of interesting people are getting involved, so Thursday should be an exciting evening.
Previously:
10-15-06 Another Solid Weekend of Oliver!
10-7-06 Opening Night of Oliver!
10-6-06 Oliver! Opens Tonight
9-29-06 The Oliver Project - Gala Event October 19, 2006
9-28-06 The Oliver! Project - Local Social Conscientious Theater
9-28-06 Socially Conscientious Theater
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Monday, October 16, 2006
The Pirate Queen
The new Musical headed for Broadway The Pirate Queen - they have a wonderful insightful backstage videos that you can watch and learn about the band and production crew - I encourage you to take a look.
The Pirate Queen takes elements from the extraordinary life of Grace O'Malley, pirate, chieftain, lover and mother in 16th Century Ireland.
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The Pirate Queen takes elements from the extraordinary life of Grace O'Malley, pirate, chieftain, lover and mother in 16th Century Ireland.
Technorati tags: Hudson valley theater Broadway Music Musicals Blog Theater Hudson Valley Community Theater Blogs Entertainment
Mid Hudson Valley Theater 2007 Shows
I've been trying to figure out what is going to be on stage in 2007 in the mid Hudson valley. As always there is a wide variety of dramas and musicals put on by the numerous theater groups in the area. Not all of the local theater groups have announced the next year's slate of shows, so I'll be updating this as I find out more.
January 2007
Cavalcade of Magic - Center for Performing Arts in Rhinebeck
The Heidi Chronicles - Pawling Theatre Company
Assassins CENTERstage Productions Center for Performing Arts in Rhinebeck
February 2007
Stecher & Horowitz PIANO RECITAL - Center for Performing Arts in Rhinebeck
A Streetcar Named Desire - CENTERstage Productions Center for Performing Arts in Rhinebeck
March 2007
Hello Dolly! - Up In One Productions Center for Performing Arts in Rhinebeck
A Man for All Seasons - Cocoon Theatre
April 2007
Richard III - CENTERstage Productions The Center for Performing Arts in Rhinebeck
The Pillowman - Rhinebeck Theatre Society at The Morton Library
Deathtrap - Pawling Theatre Company
May 2007
Dancescape 2007 - Up In One Productions The Center for Performing Arts in Rhinebeck
Sleuth - CENTERstage Productions The Center for Performing Arts in Rhinebeck
June 2007
Here's a Howdy Do! - G&S Musical Theater Company Center for Performing Arts in Rhinebeck
Anything Goes - Rhinebeck Theatre Society The Center for Performing Arts in Rhinebeck
July 2007
The World Goes 'Round - Pawling Theatre Company
Company - Up In One Productions The Center for Performing Arts in Rhinebeck
A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum - Up In One Productions The Center for Performing Arts in Rhinebeck
September 2007
The Rocky Horror Show CENTERstage Productions The Center for Performing Arts in Rhinebeck
October 2007
Cat on a Hot Tin Roof - Up In One Productions The Center for Performing Arts in Rhinebeck
That's all I can find for right now - I know that there are two companies planning on doing Disney's High School Musical - one is definitely planning on sometime in Summer 2007, the other I have heard no whispers of when.
Technorati tags: Hudson valley theater Broadway Music Musicals Blog Theater Hudson Valley Community Theater Blogs Entertainment
January 2007
Cavalcade of Magic - Center for Performing Arts in Rhinebeck
The Heidi Chronicles - Pawling Theatre Company
Assassins CENTERstage Productions Center for Performing Arts in Rhinebeck
February 2007
Stecher & Horowitz PIANO RECITAL - Center for Performing Arts in Rhinebeck
A Streetcar Named Desire - CENTERstage Productions Center for Performing Arts in Rhinebeck
March 2007
Hello Dolly! - Up In One Productions Center for Performing Arts in Rhinebeck
A Man for All Seasons - Cocoon Theatre
April 2007
Richard III - CENTERstage Productions The Center for Performing Arts in Rhinebeck
The Pillowman - Rhinebeck Theatre Society at The Morton Library
Deathtrap - Pawling Theatre Company
May 2007
Dancescape 2007 - Up In One Productions The Center for Performing Arts in Rhinebeck
Sleuth - CENTERstage Productions The Center for Performing Arts in Rhinebeck
June 2007
Here's a Howdy Do! - G&S Musical Theater Company Center for Performing Arts in Rhinebeck
Anything Goes - Rhinebeck Theatre Society The Center for Performing Arts in Rhinebeck
July 2007
The World Goes 'Round - Pawling Theatre Company
Company - Up In One Productions The Center for Performing Arts in Rhinebeck
A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum - Up In One Productions The Center for Performing Arts in Rhinebeck
September 2007
The Rocky Horror Show CENTERstage Productions The Center for Performing Arts in Rhinebeck
October 2007
Cat on a Hot Tin Roof - Up In One Productions The Center for Performing Arts in Rhinebeck
That's all I can find for right now - I know that there are two companies planning on doing Disney's High School Musical - one is definitely planning on sometime in Summer 2007, the other I have heard no whispers of when.
Technorati tags: Hudson valley theater Broadway Music Musicals Blog Theater Hudson Valley Community Theater Blogs Entertainment
Sunday, October 15, 2006
Another Solid Weekend of Oliver!
This weekend, Oliver was really good - last night was what felt like the best performance so far. Timmy was there to see it - which was wonderful. It felt like we were really connecting with the audience, a difficult task at times. Oliver! is not a light musical - it deals with some pretty dark topics, child labor, slavery, exploitation ...
Which is why it being incorporated into a fund raising effort for Human Rights Watch, Children's Division - it really feels like a good match. We'll be having a Gala Performance this Thursday with all proceeds going to Human Rights Watch. You can visit The Oliver! Project Website.
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Which is why it being incorporated into a fund raising effort for Human Rights Watch, Children's Division - it really feels like a good match. We'll be having a Gala Performance this Thursday with all proceeds going to Human Rights Watch. You can visit The Oliver! Project Website.
Technorati tags: Hudson valley theater Broadway Music Musicals Blog Theater Hudson Valley Community Theater Blogs Entertainment
Character Actors
An inspiring piece for those of us that are termed "Character Actors" from the NY Times, a piece on Dan Fogler - the Tony Award winning actor from The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee.
"It’s a showbiz truism that character actors don’t work much until they’re 35. For about 15 years after drama school, as their “traditionally beautiful” pals get snapped up for movies and television, the “interesting” and “off-center” types are lucky if they find voice-over work as marmosets. Even onstage no one wants a less than Olympian romantic lead. But after sufficient seasoning and suffering, the received wisdom goes, character actors will have grown into their oddness just as their ingénue colleagues are starting to stockpile Botox. If they haven’t in the meantime become social workers, they will suddenly find plenty of fulfilling work playing sidekicks, frumps and creeps. Plus some Chekhov.
That was the career that Dan Fogler assumed he’d have when, as a new student at the School of Theater at Boston University, he was given the diagnosis of “character actor,” as if it were mumps. A chubby, nasal, duckwalking boy with crazy hair, he wasn’t really surprised by the news. And he wasn’t really insulted either. " Link
"It’s a showbiz truism that character actors don’t work much until they’re 35. For about 15 years after drama school, as their “traditionally beautiful” pals get snapped up for movies and television, the “interesting” and “off-center” types are lucky if they find voice-over work as marmosets. Even onstage no one wants a less than Olympian romantic lead. But after sufficient seasoning and suffering, the received wisdom goes, character actors will have grown into their oddness just as their ingénue colleagues are starting to stockpile Botox. If they haven’t in the meantime become social workers, they will suddenly find plenty of fulfilling work playing sidekicks, frumps and creeps. Plus some Chekhov.
That was the career that Dan Fogler assumed he’d have when, as a new student at the School of Theater at Boston University, he was given the diagnosis of “character actor,” as if it were mumps. A chubby, nasal, duckwalking boy with crazy hair, he wasn’t really surprised by the news. And he wasn’t really insulted either. " Link
Mary Poppins on Broadway
One of my favorite movie-musicals has to be Mary Poppins. It also happens to be the first show I was ever involved in, a chorus girl- sometime in elementary school. I had this wonderful parasol .... ah memories. So I am pretty excited about the show being staged on Broadway. Also the artist who did our backdrops for Oliver! did the scenery for this production. He is amazing!
You can see a teaser preview on the official site. Playbill also has a nice piece on the show.
Technorati tags: Hudson valley theater Broadway Music Musicals Blog Theater Hudson Valley Community Theater Blogs Entertainment
You can see a teaser preview on the official site. Playbill also has a nice piece on the show.
Technorati tags: Hudson valley theater Broadway Music Musicals Blog Theater Hudson Valley Community Theater Blogs Entertainment
Here's Rachel Corrie, where's the fuss?
My Name is Rachel Corrie is the play that, you may remember, was going to be done by NYTW - but then was "postponed" in an apparent move of self-censorship. I disagree with Censorship of the Arts - I believe that the theater, and the Arts in general exist to make people look at the word in a different way.
Today My Name is Rachel Corrie opened at Off-Broadway's Minetta Lane Theatre, where it has been in previews since October 5th. Megan Dodds reprises her role in the American premiere of the show. Dodds played Rachel Corrie in the April 2005 Royal Court Theatre production, and reprised the role both at The Royal Court and at The Playhouse Theatre in London's West End in spring 2006. The limited engagement will play 48 performances through Nov. 19.
Playgoer has linked to some reviews: Kushner on Corrie, Where's the "Outrage"? (Corrie in NY), John Simon on "Corrie", Voice "Corrie" Review.
Previously on Corrie:
4-1-06 Art, Theater and Censorship
4-6-06 London Run Extended
4-11-06 Update on My Name is Rachel Corrie
4-23-06 NYTW Panel Discussions
6-24-06 Corrie comes to NYC
7-8-2006 Corrie Casting Call
8-29-06 Update on Corrie
Technorati tags: Hudson valley theater Broadway Music Musicals Blog Theater Hudson Valley Community Theater Blogs Entertainment
Today My Name is Rachel Corrie opened at Off-Broadway's Minetta Lane Theatre, where it has been in previews since October 5th. Megan Dodds reprises her role in the American premiere of the show. Dodds played Rachel Corrie in the April 2005 Royal Court Theatre production, and reprised the role both at The Royal Court and at The Playhouse Theatre in London's West End in spring 2006. The limited engagement will play 48 performances through Nov. 19.
Playgoer has linked to some reviews: Kushner on Corrie, Where's the "Outrage"? (Corrie in NY), John Simon on "Corrie", Voice "Corrie" Review.
Previously on Corrie:
4-1-06 Art, Theater and Censorship
4-6-06 London Run Extended
4-11-06 Update on My Name is Rachel Corrie
4-23-06 NYTW Panel Discussions
6-24-06 Corrie comes to NYC
7-8-2006 Corrie Casting Call
8-29-06 Update on Corrie
Technorati tags: Hudson valley theater Broadway Music Musicals Blog Theater Hudson Valley Community Theater Blogs Entertainment
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