BroadwayWorld.com Philippines Stories

Photo Coverage: DISNEY'S TARZAN by Viva Atlantis Theatricals

Wed, 19 Jun 2013 14:52:45 PST

Manila, Philippines, June 19, 2013--Viva Atlantis Theatrical's staging of "Disney's Tarzan" stars multi-awarded singer Rachelle Ann Go (Jane Porter) and Broadway actor Dan Domenech (Tarzan).

The Domenech-Go tandem is a perfect match for their roles, Tarzan and Jane. Domenech delivers an impressive performance. What makes him remarkable as Tarzan is his sustained energy all throughout the show, despite all the tiring swinging on ropes and ape-like walking. He makes his singing while swinging look so easy. Go, on the other hand, nails her portrayal of Jane. She belts her songs effortlessly and speaks with British accent with ease. She complements Domenech onstage--showing their undeniable stage chemistry.

Alongside Go and Domenech, "Tarzan" features other stellar cast members: Ima Castro, who plays Tarzan's ape mother, Kala, sings a very heartwarming and moving duet, "You'll Be In My Heart," (written by Phil Collins) with Tarzan; Millado, with his commanding voice, shows that he is indeed Kerchak, the ape leader; and Hidalgo displays such enthusiasm playing Terk, Tarzan's ape best friend.

Aside from the outstanding main actors, the show's set design (by Lex Marcos) is noteworthy; it captures the audience's imagination bringing out the vivid colors of a real-life jungle.

Chari Arespacochaga, the show's director, brings in all the needed elements to one splendid musical theater production.

Its cast members, songs, set pieces, and movements successfully convey the core story behind "Tarzan": the love of family.

Disney's "Tarzan" runs at Meralco Theater until Saturday, June 29. For tickets, visit ticketworld.com.ph.

Viva Atlantis Theatricals presents the Asian premiere of DISNEY'S TARZAN

Dan Domenech

Rachelle Ann Go, Dan Domenech

Viva Atlantis Theatricals presents the Asian premiere of DISNEY'S TARZAN

Eugene Villaluz

Jeffrey Hidalgo

Jeffrey Hidalgo

BREAKING NEWS: It's Finally Official! MISS SAIGON to Return to West End in May 2014 at Prince Edward Theatre!

Wed, 19 Jun 2013 19:00:20 PST

First scooped last year by BroadwayWorld.com with extensive coverage of the auditions, it's finally OFFICIAL! Cameron Mackintosh has just announced that Boublil and Schönberg's legendary musical MISS SAIGON will return to the West End in May 2014 to the Prince Edward Theatre.

Cameron Mackintosh said "I find it hard to believe that it is already 25 years since I first premiered Miss Saigon in London, where it became the greatest success ever in the long history of the Drury Lane Theatre and went on to be a phenomenal success around the world.

Ten years ago I decided to reconceive the show in a completely re-imagined physical production that could play a far greater number of theatres than the original but still retains Bob Avian's legendary musical staging and the same scale of cast. As well as touring the UK with enormous success the new production directed by Laurence Connor has been seen in numerous countries around the world where it has been embraced by audiences and critics alike with as much enthusiasm as the original.

If anything the tragic love story of Miss Saigon has become even more relevant today. In the last 25 years our country has become involved in similar wars in Iraq and Afghanistan in the way we weren't in Vietnam and the American Dream has been buffeted by the reality of recent history. The new production has taken a more gritty and realistic approach to the design than the operatic original but still delivers the power and epic sweep of Boublil and Schönberg's great score.

Of all my shows Miss Saigon is probably the one I have the most requests to bring back. For some years I have been waiting for the perfect theatre to house the new production. These requests are not only from a public who remembers seeing it originally but from a generation of new audiences who were too young (or not even born!) to get to see it. Now that the very successful Jersey Boys has decided to move to a more intimate theatre I now have the perfect theatre - The Prince Edward."

Set in 1975 during the final days of the American occupation of Saigon, Miss Saigon is an epic love story about the relationship between an American GI and a young Vietnamese woman.

Orphaned by war, 17-year-old Kim is forced to work as a bar girl in a sleazy Saigon night club owned by a notorious wheeler-dealer known as 'The Engineer'. John, an American GI, buys his friend Chris the services of Kim for the night. That night will change their lives forever.

Since its London premiere in 1989, Cameron Mackintosh's production of Alain Boulil and Claude-Michel Schönberg's epic musical MISS SAIGON has become one of the most successful musicals in history and the greatest success ever to play the Theatre Royal Drury Lane. As well as record breaking London and Broadway runs, MISS SAIGON has been performed in 28 countries, over 300 cities in 15 different languages, has won over 40 awards including 2 Olivier Awards, 3 Tony Awards, and 4 Drama Desk Awards and been seen by over 35 million people worldwide.

Claude-Michel Schönberg and Alain Boublil recently wrote a powerful new song called 'Maybe' for the role of Ellen to sing in the second act which has been included in the recent Dutch and Japanese productions but London audiences will be the first to hear the song in English.

MISS SAIGON has music by Claude-Michel Schönberg with lyrics by Richard Maltby Jnr and Alain Boublil, adapted from original French lyrics by Alain Boublil. This new production will be directed by Laurence Connor with Musical Staging by Bob Avian and additional Choreography by Geoffrey Garratt, Production Design by Totie Driver and Matt Kinley from an original concept by Adrian Vaux, Costume Design by Andreane Neofitou, Orchestrations by William David Brohn, Lighting Design by Bruno Poet and Sound Design by Mick Potter.

Priority Booking opens 2 September 2013, with public on-sale on 9 September 2013. Sign up for more info at http://miss-saigon.com

MISS SAIGON Revival to Open in London in 2014; Directed by Laurence Connor

Tue, 18 Jun 2013 23:28:23 PST

BroadwayWorld.com confirmed exclusively back in December 2012 that a highly anticipated revival of the mega-musical "Miss Saigon" was in the works by producer Cameron Mackintosh with auditions taking place for the lead role of 'Kim' (a part created by Lea Salonga). Today, Michael Riedel reports in the New York Post that the show will open in 2014, likely in Mackintosh's Prince Edward Theatre (currently home to "Jersey Boys"). Riedel also confirms our previous reports that directing the revival will be Laurence Connor, who also co-directed the revival of "Les Miserables" that is now touring and which will hit Broadway in 2014.

The first international auditions for the London revival production of "Miss Saigon," which celebrates its 25th anniversary in 2014, were held at the Philippine Opera Company's headquarters in Manila on November 19 to 22, 2012. More than 1,000 aspirants showed up; and at least seven female auditionees were shortlisted. After the auditions, Mackintosh told The Philippine Star that "Yes, I'm going to restage 'Miss Saigon' in London as soon as I find the theater. In fact, yes, you're right...we have started preliminary auditions. When we did the show in London 25 years ago, we spent over a year looking for the cast. I hope that in the next 18 months it would be back in London. The new version has just opened here in Japan and it's a phenomenal success. It's going to be a different production but still the same great 'Miss Saigon.'

Created by the acclaimed writers of "Les Miserables," this modern, rock-infused adaptation of Puccini's 1904 opera "Madame Butterfly" explores the ongoing impact of love, loss and the collision of cultures during the Vietnam War. Originally produced in London's West End in 1989, the show played for an astonishing ten years--a run of over four thousand performances. Broadway success followed in 1991.

Laurence Connor started his career as an actor in which he took part in various plays, musicals and recordings. It was while performing in the musical "Les Miserables" that he was asked to direct his first musical, "A Slice of Saturday Night," which played for a one-night charity gala at the Liverpool Empire Theatre. Since then Laurence has worked as a resident and associate director on several shows in London including "The King & I," "The Phantom of the Opera" and "Oliver!" In 2005, Laurence directed a new touring production of "Miss Saigon", which has been recreated in Korea and Australia winning major awards including The Manchester Evening News award for Best Touring Musical and Green Room award for Best Director, and co-directed the 25th Anniversary tour of "Les Miserables" and the 25th Anniversary concert of "Les Miserables" at the O2. Laurence recently directed "The Phantom if the Opera" at the Royal Albert Hall, "Oliver!" National UK tour, "The Phantom of the Opera" 25th anniversary production and an Arena tour of "Jesus Christ Superstar."

STAGE TUBE: Watch Lea Salonga in the Judge's Chair for THE VOICE PHILIPPINES

Mon, 17 Jun 2013 15:10:23 PST

The Philippine television version of hit Reality Show "The Voice" from Talpa Media Group, features Broadway veteran Lea Salonga in the judges panel along with Apl. de. ap of Black Eyed Peas, Bamboo Mañalac, and Sarah Geronimo. Below, check out a clip of Salonga in action!

The Philippines joins around 40 other countries that has localized "The Voice" on television, including the more popular U.S. version on NBC, currently hosted by Carson Daly with coaches Shakira, Adam Levine, Usher, and Blake Shelton.

Structured with four various competition stages: (1) producers' auditions, (2) blind auditions, (3) battle and knockout rounds, and (4) live shows, "The Voice," which was created by Dutch television producer John de Mol, stands unique from other singing competitions such as "American Idol" and "X Factor" because of the former's round of blind auditions, where the coaches get to choose their team members based solely on the contestants' singing talents.

Click Here to Play!

Velvet Channel Airs Tony Awards in PH, 6/10 (And Who Else Is Excited?)

Sat, 08 Jun 2013 17:47:05 PST

By Lee Cundangan

Besides Velvet Channel, do you know who else is excited for the Tony Awards? Scroll down!

Manila, Philippines, June 8, 2013--Excitement is mounting as theater aficionados brace themselves for this year's Tony Awards!

For the third time--the first time was in 2008; the second last year--Velvet Channel on cable TV brings to the Philippines the exclusive live broadcast of the Tony Awards on Monday, June 10 at 8 a.m.

The Tony Awards, Broadway's most prestigious awards, are equivalent to London's West End's Laurence Olivier Awards. The witty and irrepressible Neil Patrick Harris will once again host the Tonys.

"Velvet is very proud to broadcast the Tony Awards for the third time. We're constantly working hard to bring to our audience the best in entertainment; and the Tony Awards is one of the most prestigious shows that truly makes Velvet the home of the biggest red carpet events," Ronald Arguelles, Velvet's channel head, told BroadwayWorld.com.

Besides the Tony Awards, Velvet Channel also scores the live telecasts of the Oscars, Emmys, SAG Awards, Miss Universe Pageant, and Victoria's Secret fashion show.

A staunch supporter of theater in the Philippines, Velvet Channel has been a media partner with the local productions of "Rock of Ages," "Nine," "Piaf," "God of Carnage", and "The Full Monty."

The cable channel also sent a lucky viewer and her husband to New York last year to watch "Disney's Newsies" on Broadway, where Evan Kasprzak, a finalist on "So You Think You Can Dance"--a program that Velvet Channel also carries--made his Broadway debut.

Tony Awards Telecast Schedule:

June 10, Monday, 8 a.m. - Live Telecast

June10, Monday, 8 p.m.

June 15, Saturday, 6 p.m.

June 16, Sunday, 12 noon

June 21, Friday, 6:30 p.m.

June 22, Saturday, 1 p.m.

June 26, Wednesday, 3:30 a.m.

June 26, Wednesday, 2:30 p.m.

By the way, do you know who else is excited for the Tony Awards? BroadwayWorld.com had a quick little chat with some of them:

"...what l look forward to though are the production numbers from the different plays and musicals. Also looking forward to Neil Patrick Harris hosting again. He's so funny! - Rem Zamora

"I'm watching [the Tony Awards] if I don't forget... and I always look forward to the opening number. I usually forget everything else after that." - Miguel Castro

"Yes, I'll be watching the live telecast of the Tony Awards on Velvet Channel. Looking forward to the performances of the nominated musicals. Plus seeing my favorite Broadway actors presenting the awards. Looking forward to the host, Neil Patrick Harris. He's really good. - Jon Jon Martin

"I'm most excited about Neil Patrick Harris. He's such an awesome host. And I'm hoping to see snippets from the play nominees." - Topper Fabregas

"I look forward to amazing new performances, new plays showcased." - Kuya Manzano

"I'm looking forward to the performances. So excited! - Cris Villonco

"Yes, I'm watching the Tony Awards early Monday morning with the 9WT (9WorksTheatrical) team. I'm looking forward to watching and enjoying all performances from featured Broadway shows." - Anna Santamaria

"I always look forward to the Tony Awards. I particularly enjoy the production numbers." - Josephine Roces Chavez

"I'm hosting the annual 9WT Tony Awards breakfast/brunch. I look forward to the opening production number of Neil Patrick Harris; as well as the featured excerpts from nominated musicals/revivals; as well as the overall production design; as well as the individual scenography and technical elements that will be featured in the production numbers.

"It's just like any Oscar Awards viewing show. Theater colleagues/friends wake up early, and come together for breakfast/brunch while watching the Tonys with great anticipation hehehe. Of course, it's a potluck kind of thing with lots of laughs and good breakies." - Mio Infante

Summer Stages: BWW's Top Picks for the Philippines Third Quarter

Fri, 14 Jun 2013 12:50:39 PST

Co-written with Lee Cundangan, Nina Saldana

There are only two seasons in the Philippines: the dry season and the wet season. Technically, it is the wet season in the country from June to August; nevertheless, the local theater scene remains bustling with activities during these "bring your umbrella" months.

Below are our top-five picks for the Philippine Theater scene's third quarter:

Top 1: Velvet Channel Airs the Tony Awards

For the third time, Velvet Channel on cable TV brings to the Philippines the exclusive live broadcast of the Tony Awards. The Tony Awards, Broadway's equivalent to London's West End's Laurence Olivier Awards, are once again hosted by the witty and irrepressible Neil Patrick Harris.

The Tony Awards' Telecast Schedule:

June 10, Monday, 8 a.m. - Live Telecast

June 10, Monday, 8 p.m.

June 15, Saturday, 6 p.m.

June 16, Sunday, 12 noon

June 21, Friday, 6:30 p.m.

June 22, Saturday, 1:00 p.m.

June 26, Wednesday, 3:30 a.m.

June 26, Wednesday, 2:30 p.m.

Top 2: Viva Atlantis Theatricals Presents Disney's TARZAN

Broadway's Dan Domenech ("Rock of Ages," "Glee") visits Manila for the first time to play the role of Tarzan in the Asian premiere of "Disney's Tarzan," which features music and lyrics by Phil Collins and book by David Henry Hwang. Domenech co-stars with pop star Rachelle Ann Go ("Disney's The Little Mermaid").

Expect flying scenes, swinging on ropes, incredible costumes, and a heart-warming score.

"Disney's Tarzan" plays Meralco Theater from Friday, June 14 to Sunday, June 29.

For tickets, visit ticketworld.com.ph.

Top 3: Atlantis Productions Restages ROCK OF AGES

Currently playing the Bohemian rebel Galileo in the World Arena Tour of "We Will Rock You," rock star MiG Ayesa ("Burn the Floor," "Rent") reprises his take on the delicious role of Stacee Jaxx in the return engagement of Broadway's Best 1980s Party "Rock of Ages" in Manila.

"Rock of Ages" plays Carlos P. Romulo Auditorium from Friday, July 12 to Sunday, July 28.

For tickets, visit ticketworld.com.ph.

Top 4: Spotlight Artists Centre Restages KATY

Spotlight Artists Centre's revival production of the Filipino landmark musical "Katy," based on illustrious career and life of Katy de la Cruz, hailed as the Queen of Filipino Jazz, moves to a bigger venue: from CCP Little Theater to Meralco Theater.

Isay Alvarez ("Miss Saigon," "Himala") revisits her role as the revered songstress.

In a recent interview with Interaksyon.com, Alvarez promised "a bigger and better restaging" of the beloved musical, whose earlier performances at the CCP were marred with excessive blackouts.

"Katy" plays Meralco Theater from Thursday, July 25 to Sunday, August 4.

For tickets, visit ticketworld.com.ph.

Top 5: CCP Presents VIRGIN LABFEST 9

The Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) presents "Virgin Labfest 9," an annual festival of unpublished and unstaged original Filipino plays.

The Virgin Labfest's notable works for the stage include Layeta Bucoy's "Doc Resureccion: Gagamutin ang Bayan," Carlo Pacolor Garcia's "Bakit Wala Nang Nagtatagpo sa Philcoa Oberpas," Reuel Molina Aguila's "Maliw," and Nick Pichay's "Isang Araw sa Karnabal."

"Virgin Labfest 9" plays CCP Tanghalang Huseng Batute (Studio Theater) from Wednesday, June 26 to Sunday, July 7.

For tickets, visit ticketworld.com.ph.

BroadwayWorld Special Coverage: SUMMER STAGES - Our Picks for Summer's Best Around the World!

Fri, 14 Jun 2013 16:24:57 PST

As the summer days near, BroadwayWorld rounded up our worldwide community - from Australia to Canada, California and beyond! - to bring you our top picks for the best of summer theater in each of our main markets! Looking for the best of the summer venue and production offerings in your area? Let's hear from a sampling of the BroadwayWorld experts!

Scroll down below for their recommendations and click below each entry for more information on each selection from their personalized column!

New York:

Michael Dale, Chief Critic, BroadwayWorld.com

City Center Encores! Off-Center and The Lobby Project (http://www.nycitycenter.org/content/stage/off-center.aspx)
New York Musical Theatre Festival: July 8-28. (http://www.nymf.org)
Sideshows By The Seashore at Coney Island (http://www.coneyisland.com/sideshow.shtml)

CLICK HERE for more from Michael!

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Chicago:

Paul Thompson, BroadwayWorld Chicago

THE JUNGLE BOOK, http://www.goodmantheatre.org/season/Jungle-Book/
KISS OF THE SPIDER WOMAN, http://www.bohotheatre.com
HEDWIG AND THE ANGRY INCH, http://www.haventheatrechicago.org/
THE COLOR PURPLE, http://mercurytheaterchicago.com/2013-season/
NEXT TO NORMAL, http://www.drurylaneoakbrook.com/

CLICK HERE for more from Paul!

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Los Angeles:

Don Grigware and Ellen Dostal, BroadwayWorld LA

A Man of No Importance/Good People Theater Company at the Lillian Theatre: www.hff13.org/1093
A Midsummer Saturday Night's Fever Dream/The Troubadour Theatre Company: www.FalconTheatre.com
Dead Man's Cell Phone/International City Theatre: http://ictlongbeach.org/
She Stoops To Conquer/Independent Shakespeare Co.: www.iscla.org
Watson and the Dark Art of Harry Houdini/SacRed Fools: http://sacredfools.org/

CLICK HERE for more from Don and Ellen!

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California - Costa Mesa & Orange Country:

Michael Quintos, BroadwayWorld CA

Bloody Bloody Andrew Jackson, Chance Theater: www.ChanceTheater.com
Free Movie Mondays!, Segerstrom Center for the Arts: www.SCFTA.org
Sister Act: The Musical, Segerstrom Center for the Arts: www.SCFTA.org
Next to Normal, La Mirada Theatre for the Performing Arts: www.LaMiradaTheatre.com

CLICK HERE for more from Michael!

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Las Vegas:

Ellen Sterling, BroadwayWorld Las Vegas

The Utah Shakespeare Festival (http://www.bard.org)
Human Nature (http://www.humannaturelive.com)
Vegas! The Show (http://www.vegastheshow.com)
The Smith Center for the Arts (http://www.thesmithcenter.com)

CLICK HERE for more from Ellen!

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Seattle:

Jay Irwin, BroadwayWorld Seattle

CHICAGO, Village Theatre: www.villagetheatre.org
OTHER DESERT CITIES, ACT: www.acttheatre,org
ALL IN THE TIMING, STAGEright: www.seattlestageright.org
Intiman Theatre FESTIVAL: www.intiman.org
HAIRSPRAY: IN CONCERT, 5th Avenue Theatre: www.5thavenue.org

CLICK HERE for more from Jay!

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Portland, OR:

Patrick Brassell, BroadwayWorld Portland

The Taming of the Shrew by Willam Shakespeare and The Tamer Tamed by John Fletcher at Portland Center Stage
JAW: A Playwrights Festival at Portland Center Stage
Trek in the Park: The Trouble with Tribbles at Cathedral Park in St. Johns
Avenue Q at Triangle Productions

CLICK HERE for more from Patrick!

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Houston, TX:

David Clarke, BroadwayWorld Houston

MACBETH - The Stark Naked Theatre Company: http://www.starknakedtheatre.com
PETER PAN at The Wortham Center's Brown Theater: http://www.houstonballet.org
THE HOLLOW - The Alley Theatre: http://www.alleytheatre.org
MARVELOUS WONDERETTES: CAPS AND GOWNS - Stage's Arena Theatre: http://stagestheatre.com

CLICK HERE for more from David!

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Boston:

Jan Nargi, Nancy Grossman, Larry Murray, BroadwayWorld Boston

LES MISERABLES - Reagle Music Theatre: http://www.reaglemusictheatre.com
La Cage Aux Folles - North Shore Music Theatre: http://nsmt.org
Thoroughly Modern Millie - Ogunquit Playhouse: http://www.ogunquitplayhouse.org
Spring Awakening - Gloucester Stage Company: http://www.gloucesterstage.com
Cape Playhouse, Dennis: http://www.capeplayhouse.com

CLICK HERE for more from Jan, Nancy and Larry!

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Washington, DC:

Jeffrey Walker, BroadwayWorld Washington DC

COMPANY, Signature Theatre: Website for Signature
Dr. Seuss' THE CAT IN THE HAT, Adventure Theatre MTC: Adventure Theatre MTC's website and THE CAT IN THE HAT information
ONE NIGHT WITH Janis Joplin, Arena Stage: Arena Stage and ONE NIGHT WITH Janis Joplin
Richard O'Brien's THE ROCKY HORROR SHOW, Studio Theatre: Studio Theatre and THE ROCKY HORROR SHOW

CLICK HERE for more from Jeffrey!

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Denver:

Michael Mulhern, BroadwayWorld Denver

The Wizard of Oz - Boulder's Dinner Theatre: www.bouldersdinnertheatre.com
Colorado Shakespeare Festival - University of Colorado, Boulder: www.coloradoshakes.org
Creede Repertory Theatre Summer Season: www.creederep.org
Curtains - Arvada Center: www.arvadacenter.org

CLICK HERE for more from Michael!

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Atlanta:

Matt Tamanini, BroadwayWorld Atlanta

JOSEPH AND THE AMAZING TECHNICOLOR DREAMCOAT: Atlanta Lyric Theatre
METAMORPHOSES: Georgia Shakespeare
Miranda Sings LIVE!: Actor's Express
ONCE UPON A MATTRESS: Stage Door Players

CLICK HERE for more from Matt!

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Connecticut:

Sherry Cohen, BroadwayWorld Connecticut

George Kelly's The Show-Off: www.westportplayhouse.org
As You Like It: www.shakespeareonthesound.org
Othello: www.curtaincallinc.com
Summer Theatre of New Canaan: www.curtaincallinc.com

CLICK HERE for more from Sherry!

Lauren Yarger, BroadwayWorld Connecticut

Goodspeed's HELLO DOLLY!: http://www.goodspeed.org/
Ivoryton Playhouse's I'M CONNECTICUT: www.ivorytonplayhouse.org
Bushnell Center for the Performing Arts, Billy ElliotT: www.bushnell.org

CLICK HERE for more from Lauren!

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Cleveland, OH:

Roy Berko, BroadwayWorld Cleveland:

SOUTH PACIFIC, Porthouse Theatre: http://dept.kent.edu/theatre/porthouse/index.html
Mercury Summer Theatre: http://www.mercurysummerstock.com
SMOKEY JOE'S CAFÉ, Cain Park: http://www.cainpark.com
TWELVE ANGRY MEN, Blank Canvas: http://www.blankcanvastheatre.com
MAMAI THEATRE COMPANY: http://www.mamaitheatreco.org/home/buy-tickets-subscirbe

CLICK HERE for more from Roy!

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Columbus, OH:

Lisa Norris, BroadwayWorld Columbus:

ACTOR'S THEATER OF COLUMBUS: http://www.theactorstheatre.org/index.asp
ALMOST MAINE, Otterbein: http://www.otterbein.edu/public/About/Calendars/ArtScene/TheatreDancePerformances/ost.aspxx
CATCO: http://catco.org/shows/
Shadowbox Live: http://www.shadowboxlive.org/shows/the-rocky-horror-show
Columbus Children's Theatre: http://www.colschildrenstheatre.org./index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=97&Itemid=141

CLICK HERE for more from Lisa!

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West Virginia

Johanna Leary, BroadwayWorld West Virginia:

The Contemporary American Theater Festival: http://catf.org
Metropolitan Theater, Morgantown, WV: http://www.wvpublictheatre.org/
Old Opera House, Charles Town, WV: www.oldoperahouse.org/
Greenbrier Valley Theater, Lewisburg, WV: http://www.gvtheatre.org

CLICK HERE for more from Johanna!

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New Jersey:

Marina Kennedy, BroadwayWorld New Jersey

NJ PAC in Newark, "Sounds of the City": NJPAC.org
LUCKY STIFF at the 4th Wall Theatre: http://www.4thwalltheatre.org
Shakespeare Theatre of NJ: shakespearenj.org
Surflight Theatre: surflight.org

CLICK HERE for more from Marina!

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Charlotte:

Linda Watt, BroadwayWorld Charlotte

CHARLOTTE SQUAWKS: NINESENSE!, Blumenthal Box Office: 704 372-1000
THE LION KING, Blumenthal Box Office: 704 372-1000
I LOVE LUCY LIVE ON STAGE: Blumental Box Office: 704 372-1000

CLICK HERE for more from Linda!

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Salt Lake City:

Tyler Hinton, BroadwayWorld Salt Lake City

RAGTIME at Hale Centre Theatre, www.halecentretheatre.org
DISNEY's MULAN at Tuacahn in Ivins, www.tuacahn.org
PETER AND THE STARCATCHER at the Utah Shakespeare Festival in Cedar City, www.bard.org
CAROUSEL produced by Utah Repertory Theater at the Murray Theater in Murray, www.utahrep.org

CLICK HERE for more from Tyler!

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New Orleans:

Heidi Scheuermann, BroadwayWorld New Orleans

NEXT TO NORMAL, Southern Rep: click here
Monty Python's SPAMALOT, Rivertown Theatre: click here
LA CAGE AUX FOLLES, Tulane Summer Lyric: click here
JEKYLL AND HYDE, Playmakers: click here

CLICK HERE for more from Heidi!

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Philadelphia/South Jersey:

Pati Bueler, BroadwayWorld Philadelphia

Broadway at the Academy of Music: www.kimmelcebterorg/broadway
Walnut Street Theater: www.walnutstreettheatre.org
Wilma Theatre: www.wilmtheater.org
Bristol Riverside Theater: www.brtstage.org
Arden Theatre: www.ardentheatre.org

CLICK HERE for more from Pati!

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Long Island:

Melissa Giordano, BroadwayWorld Long Island

SOUTH PACIFIC, John W. Engeman Theatre in Northport: www.engemantheater.com
Broadhollow: broadhollow.org
Theatre Three: theaterthree.com
CM PAC: cmpac.com

CLICK HERE for more from Melissa!

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Maine:

Carla Maria Sullwold and Scott Moreau, BroadwayWorld Maine

Ogunquit Playhouse: www.ogunquitplayhouse.org
Maine State Music Theatre: www.msmt.org
Hackmatack Playhouse: www.hackmatack.org
Theatre at Monmouth: www.theatreatmonmouth.org
Arundel Barn Playhouse: www.arundelbarnplayhouse.com

CLICK HERE for more from Carla Maria and Scott!

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New Hampshire:

Daniel Adams, BroadwayWorld New Hampshire

New London Barn Playhouse: http://nlbarn.org
Interlakes Summer Theatre: http://interlakestheatre.com
Jean's Playhouse (Papermill Theatre): www.jeansplayhouse.com

CLICK HERE for more from Daniel!

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Rhode Island:

Veronica Bruscini and Robert Barossi, BroadwayWorld Rhode Island

2nd Story Theatre: www.2ndstorytheatre.com
Ocean State Theatre Company: www.oceanstatetheatre.org
Providence Performing Arts Center: www.ppacri.org
Theatre by the Sea: www.theatrebythesea.com
Trinity Rep: www.trinityrep.com

CLICK HERE for more from Veronica and Robert!

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Ft. Myers/Naples, Florida:

Chris Silk, BroadwayWorld Ft. Myers/Naples

SHREK THE MUSICAL, Broadway Palm: click here
BOB: A LIFE IN FIVE ACTS, The Laboratory Theater of Florida: click here
THE HOUSE OF YES, The Laboratory Theater of Florida: click here
NEW WORKS FESTIVAL, Gulfshore Playhouse: click here

CLICK HERE for more from Chris!

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Orlando, Florida:

Kimberly Moy, BroadwayWorld Orlando

SLEEPING BEAUTY, Orlando Shakespeare, http://www.orlandoshakes.org
DREAMGIRLS, Madcow: http://www.madcowtheatre.com
DEATH OF A SALESMAN, Madcow: http://www.madcowtheatre.com
BOEING, BOEING at TheaterUCF: http://theatre.cah.ucf.edu/season.php
THE FANTASTICKS at TheaterUCF: http://theatre.cah.ucf.edu/season.php

CLICK HERE for more from Kimberly!

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United Kingdom:

Carrie Dunn, BroadwayWorld UK

The Sound of Music, Regent's Park Open Air Theatre: http://openairtheatre.com/production/the-sound-of-music
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, Theatre Royal Drury Lane: http://www.drurylanetheatrelondon.com/charlie-and-the-chocolate-factory-the-musical/
The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-time, Apollo Theatre: http://www.apollotheatrelondon.co.uk/the-curious-incident-of-the-dog-in-the-night-time/
Merrily We Roll Along, Harold Pinter Theatre: http://www.atgtickets.com/shows/merrily-we-roll-along/harold-pinter-theatre/
Once, Phoenix Theatre: http://www.phoenixtheatrelondon.co.uk/once/

CLICK HERE for more from Carrie!

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Philippines:

Oliver Oliveros, Lee Cundangan, Nina Saldana, BroadwayWorld Philippines

Disney's Tarzan, Meralco Theater, ticketworld.com.ph
Rock of Ages, Carlos P. Romulo Auditorium, ticketworld.com.ph
Katy, Meralco Theater, ticketworld.com.ph

CLICK HERE for more from Oliver, Lee and Nina!

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Toronto:

Kelly Cameron, BroadwayWorld Toronto

CATS, Mirvish: www.mirvish.com
Toronto Fringe Festival: http://fringetoronto.com
LIGHT IN THE PIAZZA, Shaw: www.shawfest.com
Canadian Stage - Shakespeare in High Park: www.canadianstage.com/

CLICK HERE for more from Kelly!

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Australia:

Jacqueline Bublitz, BroadwayWorld Australia

KING KONG - World Premiere Season from June 2013, Regent Theatre: click here
LEGALLY BLONDE The Musical - Princess Theatre: click here
GYPSY, SINGIN' IN THE RAIN & THE PIRATES OF PENZANCE - The Production Company 2013 Season: click here
Kristin Chenoweth in Concert - Wednesday 12th June, Hamer Hall: click here
Idina Menzel with Melbourne Pops Orchestra - Sunday 30th June, Hamer Hall: click here

CLICK HERE for more from Jacqueline!

Tony Awards to Be Broadcast Internationally in Japan, Australia & More!

Wed, 05 Jun 2013 15:55:16 PST

Tony AwaRD Productions in association with CABLEready, a leading independent distributor of television programming for media outlets worldwide, will distribute the American Theatre Wing's 67th Annual Tony Awards telecast to theatre fans in four continents and over 45 countries around the globe.

Tony Awards will be made available by the international broadcasters listed below. Make sure to CHECK LOCAL LISTINGS!

Latin America - Film & Arts - airs live on Sunday, June 9 at 21:00h (Arg, Bra, Chi) or 18:00h (Mex)
New Zealand - Sky Network - Arts Channel. Airs Monday, June 10 at 8:30.
Australia - Foxtel Bio channel. Airs live at 10:00 a.m. local time on Monday, June 10.
Japan - NHK. Check local listings.
The Philippines - Velvet Channel. Airs live at 8:00 a.m. local time on Monday, June 10.
Armed Forces Television - Available to the US Armed Forces stationed outside of the United States. Check listings.

Unless otherwise noted, the broadcasts will occur either live or within a week of the June 10 U.S. broadcast on CBS. Check local listings for more information.

Even if your country or region isn't listed, fans of the Tonys across the globe may watch live coverage of Tony Awards events here at TonyAwards.com. On Sunday, June 9, our coverage begins at 6:00 p.m. ET (GMT -4) with a live webcast of the stars' arrivals on the Tony Awards Red Carpet presented by Audemars Piguet. Check out our guide to complete on-line coverage.

We'll also be updating the website all evening long, and posting news and videos here and on Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube.

The Tony Awards, hosted by Neil Patrick Harris, will be broadcast live across the United States on CBS, Sunday, June 9th, 8:00 - 11:00 p.m. (ET/PT time delay).

The 2013 Tony Awards are presented by The Broadway League and the American Theatre Wing.

DISNEY'S TARZAN: Shaping Up To Be A Fabulous Treat

Mon, 03 Jun 2013 19:47:16 PST

By Nina Saldana

Manila, Philippines, June 3, 2013--What will happen if you have a Broadway actor, a fierce diva, and a host of veteran and young talented thespians in "Disney's Tarzan," a stage musical? What you get is a jungle full of music and excitement that will keep your emotions swinging in every direction. From June 14 to 29, Disney's most-loved ape man, Tarzan, hollers his way to Meralco Theater, made possible by Viva Atlantis Theatricals Inc.

"Tarzan," based on the 1999 Disney film and adapted from the story "Tarzan of the Apes" by Edgar Rice Burroughs, is topbilled by Broadway actor Dan Domenech as the feral Tarzan. Turning Tarzan's world around as Jane Porter is pop star Rachelle Ann Go, whose first attempt at theater via "Disney's The Little Mermaid" two years ago was a critical success. Tarzan and Jane's journey will be brought to life with the help of Calvin Millado as Ketchak, Ima Castro as Kala, Eugene Villaluz as Professor Archimedes Q. Porter, and Jeffrey Hidalgo as Turk.

Domenech admits that playing Tarzan is demanding physically. "We're doing run-throughs right now. We're walking around like apes. That takes a lot of work. It's very athletic. I'll be doing a lot of flying in the show and it takes a lot of energy out of me." He is quick to say though that despite the arduous rehearsals, they are all having a good time.

Another challenge for him is effectively pulling off the scenes where he gets into ape talk. "It's difficult to do that and to also feel what you're supposed to be feeling. It's easy when you're speaking any kind of language to get into a conversation with someone, and feel what you're saying to them and feel what they're saying to you." The challenge, according to him, is in speaking an unfamiliar language and yet still establishing that connection with the audience.

Despite flying in from New York just days before rehearsals started, Domenech feels at home with the cast. "Oh, it's great. You know, it's the same as any other show in any country I've ever visited, every place that I've been. Theatre to theatre has the same life so I feel very at home here."

He has been so immersed in rehearsals the past weeks to have much time to explore the Philippines. "My schedule has not allowed me really to experience a lot of things I'd like to experience here so far while the show is on; but so far, it's been great, you know. The people, they're great. The food...oooh, the food!" On his first week here, he tried all kinds of Filipino food, including the dreaded balut. "But I had to stop because I'm wearing a bahag so I can't eat lechon everyday like I wanted."

If playing Tarzan has its challenges, playing Jane requires Go to maintain a British accent in all her speaking parts. "As suggested by my director, I started speaking to my family with an accent. I know it drove them crazy," she laughs.

She remains unfazed by the challenge of proving herself again in this musical. "I guess there's pressure but in a good way. I don't want to compare it with 'The Little Mermaid.' I'm really just enjoying this. Jane's character is different from Ariel. I love her character. She's more mature. I don't think about surpassing the success that 'The Little Mermaid' earned."

Domenech and Go only met for the first time when rehearsals started, but felt at ease with each other not long after. This made taking on Tarzan and Jane easier to do. Admittedly though, at first, Go felt a little concerned that her co-actor might have such high expectations from a newbie like her, but his good nature helped quell that feeling. "Dan is very professional. He's such a talented guy. When he sings, it's so effortless. He's also a nice guy, and that made it easy to work with him. He's an amazing person," Go says.

The New York-based actor returns the compliment. "She's an amazing person, too. She's not hard to get along with. She's awesome. She makes me look good. I don't have to do much work. It's all her," he laughs. "We're having a good time."

Ace director Chari Arespacochaga takes pride in the talent and professionalism of her actors. She says of her two lead stars, "Dan and Rachelle, they're very professional. They're both amazing. They have good chemistry, and they're very generous to each other so their scenes are really great. And you know we keep our atmosphere very light. It's serious work but it's a light and warm atmosphere and we take care of each other. I prefer to work that way because eventually I will leave the show to them and they have to take care of the show."

Having kids in the cast can be a bit of a challenge, Arespacochaga admits, "But the kids are very talented. When you see them, you want to applaud for them."

Children of all ages are bound to enjoy "Tarzan," what with a twist that Arespacochaga and her team added a local flavor to spice up the production. "Disney is very open to you creating it your own way, treating it your own way. Our spin on it is our jungle. It's tribal Philippines. That's our own twist on it and they [Disney] love it. They would rather that you do not do it the way it's been done before," Arespacochaga discloses. It would also be interesting to see Tarzan donning our indigenous bahag, designed by no less than Eric Pineda, instead of the traditional loincloth that the character is associated with.

You know you have got a good show when all the elements are coming together wonderfully. The flying, the swinging on ropes, the incredible costumes, and the heartwarming music, made specifically for the Broadway musical by singer/songwriter Phil Collins, make up all the right ingredients for a fabulous show. But as Arespacochaga puts it, "Ultimately the people should come because it's so entertaining, and it's a beautiful story about family. It's a visual treat and there's a lot of flying; but over and above all, what resonated in me when I read it is that the story says that a family could be a family you were born in, the family that raises you, the family you choose. That covers everything, right? It's a great message done in a spectacular way and with beautiful music. That's all the reasons to go watch it--and of course Dan and Rachelle."

So bring the whole family and explore the jungle this side of earth as "Tarzan" swings by from June 14-29 at the Meralco Theater. For tickets, call Viva Atlantis Theatricals at (632) 687-5853 loc. 661 or 673 / 892-7078 / 840-1187. You may also call Ticketworld at (632) 891-9999 or visit ticketworld.com.ph.

Photos by Iris May Azcarraga, Viva Atlantis Theatricals Inc.

Photo Exclusive: Boggess, Salonga, Karimloo, Shirota Rehearse for 4 STARS Concert

Sat, 01 Jun 2013 13:37:33 PST

New York, June 1, 2013--"4 Stars: One of Broadway Musicals Concert" headliners Sierra Boggess ("Love Never Dies," "Les Miserables"), Lea Salonga ("Miss Saigon," "Les Miserables"), Ramin Karimloo ("Love Never Dies," "Les Miserables"), and Yu Shirota ("Prince of Tennis," "Sailor Moon") posed for a pre-concert rehearsal snapshot for Fletcher Callanta, BroadwayWorld.com guest photographer, at Turtle Bay Music School on East 52nd Street earlier this week.

Sierra Boggess, Lea Salonga, Ramin Karimloo, and Yu Shirota

"4 Stars," featuring Jason Robert Brown's ("The Last Five Years," "Songs for A New World") musical direction and arrangements, and Daniel Kutner's ("It Must Be Him," "I Love You Because") direction, plays at Aoyama Theatre in Tokyo, Japan from Saturday, June 15 to Sunday, June 23, and at Umeda Arts Theater in Osaka, Japan from Thursday, June 27 to Sunday, June 30.

Songs from "Miss Saigon," "Les Miserables," "Phantom of the Opera," and "The Last Five Years," among others, are included in the program.

Yukio Horio is scenic designer; Toshiyuki Kasahara is lighting designer; Nobuko Miyamoto is costume designer; and Koichi Yamamoto is sound designer.

"Much of our material comes from the musical-theater canon, which makes the learning curve somewhat less steep. However, Jason gave a brand new treatment to many of these classics--tight three- and four-part harmonies, key changes and song divisions that brought forth a new spin on old music. It certainly makes it all very interesting," Salonga wrote in The Philppine Daily Inquirer.

She continued, "Although many of the songs now sound new, there was material left untouched, which hopefully will make our audiences in Tokyo and Osaka very happy. There are a few other treats too, which I will not reveal just yet. You'll just have to come to Japan and watch us!"

For more information (in Japanese), visit umegei.com.