BroadwayWorld.com Cabaret Stories

Molly Ringwald and More Set for Melbourne Recital Centre's American Songbook Series from June 14

Mon, 20 May 2013 19:03:07 PST

Melbourne Recital Centre has presented for the third year the highly acclaimed and popular American Songbook series. After a sold-out success last year American Songbook series returns bigger and better this year with a fabulous line up of local and International Artists.

"Melbourne Recital Centre's American Songbook series celebrates the exceptional song-writing that developed over the course of the 20th century across all s all mediums." Said Kirsten Siddle, Director of Programming and Presenter Services, Melbourne Recital Centre. "An exceptional line-up of stellar artists examines the leading song-writers and performers from across this diverse time, providing sensitive insights and interpretations that pay the perfect homage to these legends of American song". she added.

America has an incredibly rich history, especially when it comes to the development of popular song-writing. From the days of Tin Pan Alley through to the present day, America's song tradition captures the melting pot of cultures and traditions combined with the verve of the New World. The rise and influence of the blues and jazz on America's popular song is well known, but of course film, Broadway and country music have all contributed to this incredibly diverse catalogue.

The songwriters of the Great American Songbook translated positive values and an optimistic spirit into the soundtrack s not only of American life, but life in other countries across the world particularly Australia. These values are as true and applicable today as they have ever been. Melbourne Recital Centre is pleased to be presenting this series for the third time. In presenting this fabulous series they hope to educate today's youth and community about the relevance of the Great American Songbook and its connection to current popular music and our current culture.

Join us on this glorious journey through the glorious history of American popular song with gifted musical interpreters Barb Jungr, Michelle Nicolle Quartet, Mary Wilson, Lady Rizo, Mary Carewe, Bernadette Robinson and Jay Laga'aia.

Barb Jungr

The New American Songbook

'Sheer poetic beauty" Jazz Times

The Salon in cabaret mode

Friday 14 June 7pm, Saturday 15 June 3pm & 8pm

Tickets $45/$40 concession

MICHELLE NICOLLE QUARTET

Plays Jimmy Van Heusen

The Salon - Two hours incl. interval - in cabaret mode

Fri 21 June 7pm & Sat 22 June 3pm & 8pm

Tickets $45 /$40 concession

AN EVENING WITH Molly Ringwald

Fri 21 June 7.30pm

Elisabeth Murdoch Hall (Two hours incl. interval)

A reserve $65/$55 concession

B reserve $50/$40 concession

STORMY WEATHER

The Lena Horne Project, featuring Mary Wilson

Motown royalty and founding member of The Supremes, Mary Wilson

Elisabeth Murdoch Hall (Two hours incl interval)

Fri 28 June 7.30pm

A Reserve $55 /$45 concession

B Reserve $45 /40 concessions

Lady Rizo

New York cabaret superstar

Lady Rizo." - Time Out London

The Salon in cabaret mode (Two hours incl. interval)

Thur 27 and Fri 28 June 8pm

Sat 29 June 4pm & 8pm

Tickets $45/$40 concession

Mary Carewe

Over The Piano

The Salon in cabaret mode

Thursday 4 July and Friday 5 July 7.00pm

Saturday 6 July 8.00pm

Tickets $45 ($40 concession)

BERNADETTE ROBINSON

Judy, Patsy, Billie and Me

Elisabeth Murdoch Hall (75 mins no interval)

Friday 12 July 7.30pm

A Reserve $55 ($45 concession)

B Reserve $45($40 concession)

ON A CLEAR DAY

Hits from Stage and Screen

Thur 18 July 7.30pm

Elisabeth Murdoch Hall (Two Hours incl. interval)

Featuring Jay Laga'aia and Tony Gould.

Tickets $55 ($45 concession)

For more information and the full American Songbook 2013 schedule visit: melbournerecital.com.au/americansongbook. Bookings: melbournerecital.com.au or phone 9699 3333.

BWW Interview: Tonya Pinkins, UNPLUGGED and Sizzling

Mon, 20 May 2013 17:23:38 PST

No doubt you've seen Tonya Pinkins perform, somewhere or other. Whether it was in a film, live onstage, or on the small screen (soaps, primetime shows), it's safe to say she's crossed your field of vision through at least one medium. You might call her a triple threat: good actor, good singer, good stand-up comedian. And on June 3 her full repertoire will be on display in UNPLUGGED a performance at Joe's Pub.

"I got started in elementary school," Pinkins said of her introduction to the entertainment arts. "I had one teacher who did theater as a hobby and would run the theater program," she recalled of her early Chicago years. In junior high, she played the role of Golde in Fiddler on the Roof. "We did so much of the classics," she said. "Fiddler, The Miracle Worker, Guys and Dolls - we did them all."

Pinkins can't remember a time when she wasn't juggling painting, story-telling, acting or singing. "I actually have a high amount of energy," she said with a laugh. "I paint, I write. If it's creative then I do it."

She has won the 2012 Lucille Lortel Award, a Tony, Drama Desk, Outer Critics' Circle and Obie awards. Even Oprah knows she's special. "Tonya Pinkins is one of 10 women in America who will take your breath away," she said.

Many will recognize her from her mesmerizing portrayal in the 2004 Tony Award-winning, Caroline, or Change. Or for her work in Jelly's Last Jam in 1992. Her performance in the indie flick Milk Like Sugar won the 2012 Lucille Lortel Award. And Pinkins recently completed work on John Turturro's upcoming film, Fading Gigolo with Woody Allen.

This multitasking thespian is also the author of, "Get Over Yourself: How to Drop the Drama and Claim the Life You Deserve," a life coach and an activist for women's and children's rights. So, how did she manage to find the time for a gig at Joe's Pub?

Not a problem for a second, she said. "I've been known as the spine-of-steel woman who also has a light comic style," she said. "I think I'll try my standup throughout the concert," she thought out loud. "I'll do songs from shows I probably would never have been chosen for." For someone who seems to defy labels, she's sure been labeled enough. She has been deemed a pop singer, a soul diva, an R&B artist and a Broadway belter. But Pinkins eschews pigeon-holing; she's confident her audience will reach its own conclusion.

"I do characters, so I have lots of voices to play with. I love songs from the American Song Book," she said. "People will have a lot of fun-I plan on doing a variety of things, sexy, powerful to move people, and I also like to surprise people," she added.

"I've sung jazz in Lincoln Center. I've performed in Joe's Pub twice, and I feel like I can cast myself in anything I want," she said with a laugh.

"I like to take chances and pour all my energy out, leaving everything on the stage," she said. "It's good to be boss!"

Tonya Pinkins performs on June 3 at Joe's Pub, 425 Lafayette St. 7:30 p.m.

Photo Credit: Jennifer Broski

Lea Salonga Returns to the Cafe Carlyle With BACK TO BEFORE, Now thru 6/8

Tue, 21 May 2013 00:30:00 PST

The Carlyle, A Rosewood Hotel will welcome back Tony Award-Winner Lea Salonga to the Café Carlyle for her highly anticipated three-week engagement. Her new program, "Back to Before," is a nostalgic repertoire in which she revisits her life as a New Yorker and pays tribute to her favorite ladies-most notably Ella Fitzgerald and her idol, Barbra Streisand. "Back to Before" will be making its debut at the Café Carlyle. Ms. Salonga's engagement at the Café Carlyle will run from tonight, May 21st to June 8th.

Ms. Salonga's program, "Back to Before," will devote a section of the 75-minute set to original interpretations of songs by resilient female characters in the American musical theater canon. The program will be directed by Victor Lirio with original arrangements and music direction by Larry Yurman. Ms. Salonga will be joined by Jeff Harris on piano, John Miller on bass, and Jack Cavari on guitar.

Café Carlyle is located in The Carlyle, A Rosewood Hotel (35 East 76th Street @ Madison Avenue). Lea Salonga will play Tuesdays through Saturdays at 8:45pm, and Saturdays at 10:45pm from tonight, May 21st to June 8th. There is a $75 music charge ($45 bar seating) Tuesday through Thursday and a $85 music charge ($50 bar seating) for shows on Friday and Saturday. For additional information, visit www.thecarlyle.com.

Lea Salonga is a singer and actress who is best known for her Tony Award winning role in Miss Saigon. She is recognized for having won, in addition to the Tony, the Olivier, Drama Desk, Outer Critics Circle and Theatre World Awards, in the field of musical theatre. She was also the first Asian to play Eponine in the musical LES MISERABLES on Broadway and returned to the beloved show as Fantine in the 2006 revival.

In the summer of 2011, Lea appeared in the new musical, Allegiance, when it was a workshop in New York City. Developed by legendary actor George Takei, Allegiance tells the story of a Japanese-American family during World War II and the internment years. Last fall, Allegiance appeared in San Francisco at The Old Globe Theater and broke the theater's box office records. It is set to open on Broadway early in 2014.

Recently she participated in the 25th Anniversary Concert of LES MISERABLES to sold out crowds at UK's O2 arena. Universal will release the star-studded concert this spring. She also dazzled as the hauntingly tragic Grizabella in a limited run of CATS in her hometown of Manila.

Honored with an appointment as a United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization Goodwill Ambassador in October of 2010, Lea vowed to act as advocate for the Youth and United Nations Global Alliance initiative led by the FAO.

Also in 2010, Lea made her debut in the world of Cabaret, performing a sold out, three week engagement at the Café Carlyle in New York City. She returned in June 2011 to delight audiences in another multi-week engagement. Lea also teamed up with legendary Grammy winner, Patti Austin, to perform the concert series, 'Heart and Soul.'

She delighted fans in Kuala Lumpur with her debut appearance there, 'An Evening with Lea Salonga.' She has also held sold-out concerts in both Hong Kong and Bangkok and performed a special Valentine's Day 2011 concert with the Bangkok Symphony.

In 2005, Lea played her first US concert tour in San Francisco, Los Angeles, Atlantic City, and Chicago. Concert dates in Washington, D.C. and Norfolk, Virginia followed. Later that year, she performed with a 26-piece ensemble to a sold-out crowd at the Isaac Stern Hall in Carnegie Hall, benefitting the Diverse City Theater Company.

In her 30-year career, Lea has performed for five Philippine presidents (from Ferdinand Marcos to Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo), three American Presidents (George H. W. Bush, Bill Clinton, and George W. Bush), and for Diana, Princess of Wales and Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.

She began her career as a child star in the Philippines, making her professional debut in 1978 at the age of seven in the musical The King and I. She went on to star in productions of Annie, Cat on a Hot Tin Roof, Fiddler on the Roof,The Rose Tattoo, The Sound of Music, The Goodbye Girl, Paper Moon, and The Fantasticks.

Lea began her recording career at the age of ten with her first album, "Small Voice," which received a gold certification. Her albums that followed include "Lea", released in 1988 , "Inspired" released in 2007, and numerous live concert and Broadway albums.

In addition to performing in musical theater and recordings, she hosted her own musical television show, "Love, Lea," and also opened for international acts such as Menudo and Stevie Wonder.

Lea's big breakthrough came when she was selected to play Kim in the megahit musical Miss Saigon in 1989. For her performance as Kim, she won the Olivier for Best Performance by an Actress in a Musical for the 1989/1990 season. Miss Saigon moved from its original London home, to Broadway in April 1991. Lea subsequently garnered the Tony, Drama Desk, Outer Critics Circle, and the Theatre World Awards for the same role. In 1999, she was invited back to London to close the musical, and in 2001, at the age of 29 and after doing the Manila run of the musical, she returned to Broadway to close the Broadway production.

Upon completion of her initial stint as Kim on Broadway, Lea played the role of street waif Eponine in the Broadway production of LES MISERABLES.

In 2002, she returned to Broadway to play the role of a Chinese immigrant in a reinterpretation of Rodgers and Hammerstein's Flower Drum Song opposite Jose Llana. This was after the reinvented musical had a very successful run at the Mark Taper Forum in Los Angeles in 2001, with Lea playing the lead role and the show garnering multiple wins and nominations, including Lead Actress in a Musical for her, from the LA Stage Alliance's Ovation Awards. The Salonga-led Broadway revival cast album was also a top contender at the 2003 Grammy Awards for Best Musical Show Album.

Many fans of all ages recognize Lea as the singing voice of Princess Jasmine from Aladdin and Fa Mulan for Mulanand Mulan II.

Janet Krupin, Jarrod Spector and More Join Janine McGuire in LET'S MAKE NOISE Concert Tonight

Tue, 21 May 2013 00:30:00 PST

Tonight, May 21, composer/lyricist Janine McGuire will present an evening of her original music in "Let's Make Noise: The Music & Lyrics of Janine McGuire."

Joining her will be Katie Branden, Adam Kaplan (Newsies), Janet Krupin (Bring it On, Hands on a Hardbody), Christiana Little, Justin Gregory Lopez (Bare), Tracy McDowell (Rent, "The Next Big Thing: NY"), Micah Nameroff, Madeline Rhodes, Leela Rothenberg, Isabel Santiago (Giant, In the Heights), Arri Simon, Scoop Slone, Jarrod Spector (Jersey Boys), and Rachel Stern (Shrek).

The concert will feature music direction by Adam Ben David (The Book of Mormon) backed by a band including Sean McDaniel (drums), Jon Price (bass), and Jake Ezra Schwartz (guitar). It is produced by Shoshana Feinstein.

Showtime is at 9:30pm at the Laurie Beechman theatre, 407 W 42nd Street. Tickets, priced at $20 (with a $15 food/drink minimum), can be purchased at http://janine.brownpapertickets.com.

Laura Benanti, Frances Ruffelle and More Set for 54 Below, Now thru 6/1

Mon, 20 May 2013 16:22:58 PST

Coming up at 54 BELOW, the performance venue located just below the legendary Studio 54 at 254 West 54th Street, presents some of the brightest stars from Broadway, cabaret, jazz and beyond. 54 Below also launched its series of late night events. Joining Tuesday nights' popular "Backstage" with Susie Mosher is the "54 Piano Bar," a new vocal competition - "The Callback," and more, including: stage and television star Laura Benanti, High Fidelity in Concert, WGBO Jazz Series: Karrin Allyson Quartet, Tony winner Frances Ruffelle, Charlie Rosen's Broadway Big Band, Sondheim Unplugged and Simply Streisand.

Laura Benanti, May 20, 22, 23 at 7PM, May 23 at 9:30PM, May 24, 25 at 8:30PM & May 25 at 11PM:

Following the tremendous success of her first solo show, which played sold out venues across the country, stage and television star Laura Benanti brings you a brand new piece, "In Constant Search of the Right Kind of Attention." Fusing theatre standards with pop music and original songs, Ms. Benanti's unique blend of humor and vocal nuance promises to deliver an unforgettable evening. Come see the performer critics call "brilliantly funny" with an "exquisite voice," and whose mother calls "very very good," in a night that she desperately hopes brings her the right kind of attention. Musical Direction and Arrangements by Todd Almond. Cover charge $50-60 (11PM Shows: $35). $30 food & beverage minimum.

HIGH FIDELITY IN CONCERT, May 20 at 9:30PM:

For two nights only, the Broadway show that lives in the hearts and minds of those fortunate enough to have seen it makes a triumphant return to the theatre district. Join show creators Tom Kitt and Amanda Green and a cast that includes original cast members Will Chaseand Jenn Colella, along with new additions Adam Chanler Berat, Mario Cantone, Ana Gasteyer, Mitch Jarvis, Van Hughes, and Alison Case, when 54 Below proudly presents a special concert version of this much loved musical. Directed by Leigh Silverman, it's a Broadway event not to be missed! Cover charge $35-45. $25 food & beverage minimum.

LATE NIGHT: THE CALLBACK- Preliminaries, May 20 at 11PM:

At The Callback on Monday nights, contestants perform for a chance to win their own cabaret show at 54 Below. Contestants are chosen by video audition, their performances recorded and uploaded to 54 Below's Facebook and Youtube page, and each week, a winner is determined by audience vote to progress to the next round. "The Callback" contestants may also have the chance to sing in front of industry executives and Broadway celebrity guest judges as they move forward in the competition. For more information on "The Callback" rules or how to submit an audition video, please visit www.54Below.com. No cover charge. $20 food & beverage minimum.

WBGO JAZZ SERIES: KARRIN ALLYSON QUARTET, May 21 at 7PM & 9PM:

Karrin Allyson's voice is pure ambrosia for the heart, mind, and soul, with a remarkable and unique style that can make the beat sing, melody swing and lovers cling like there might be no tomorrow. Singer and pianist Karrin Allyson is one of the most truly inspirational virtuosos in the jazz world, equally at home creatively interpreting the Great American Songbook of George Gershwin, Cole Porter, and Harold Arlen, introducing wonderful new lyrics to modern jazz classics by Mi Les Davis, Dizzy Gillespie, and Wayne Shorter, and bringing swingingly fresh perspective as well to musical treasures from Brazil, France, and all around the planet. Karrin's stunning group of musical storytellers includes drummer Todd Strait, guitarist Steve Cardenas, and bassist Ed Howard. Cover charge $25-35. $15 food & beverage minimum.

LATE NIGHT: BACKSTAGE, May 21 at 10:30PM:

Each week, Broadway cast members and audiences alike gather to mix and mingle at 54 Below, Broadway's most intimate haunt, located in the heart of the theatre district. Musical Director Brad Simmons keeps the house jumping from the piano, while host Susie Mosher (the love child of Joanne Worley & Paul Lynde) guides the crowd through an evening of music, mayhem and full throttle belting, with special guests from Broadway and beyond dropping in to perform. NPR had this to say: "The best thing happening right now might just be the weekly Backstage. Hosted by the ridiculously funny Susie Mosher and pianist Brad Simmons who clearly is the man, it's two feel-good hours among New York's theater people, who seem like they're having a really fine time. Can't recommend it highly enough!" At this week's Backstage is Paul Vogt (Hairspray, "MAD TV"), Jonathan Rayson (Little Shop of Horrors, Legally Blonde), Karmine Alers (Rent),Yassmin Alers (Rent, Rocky Horror Show, Across the Universe), Ryan Scott Oliver (Composer), Alex Brightman (Big Fish, Wicked),Craig Pomranz (celebrated cabaret performer), Julia Mattison (Godspell), and Jim Brochu (Zero Hour, The Big Voice, God or Merman).No cover charge. $20 food & beverage minimum.

Frances Ruffelle, May 22 at 9:30PM:

Tony winner Frances Ruffelle burst into the public consciousness in 1985 when she created the role of Eponine in LES MISERABLES for the RSC, taking the role to London's West End and then to Broadway where, in addition to the Tony, she was awarded the Helen Hayes Award, Theatre World Award, and Outer Circle Critics Award for her performance. Now, in a rare NYC appearance, she presents Beneath the Dress, in which Frances brings you an evening that's all her, celebrating "women who love to entertain," via the music from the stage and beyond that made them great. Having released four acclaimed solo albums, Frances' many stage appearances include Dinah in Trevor Nunn's Starlight Express, creating the role of Yonah in the original West End production of Children of Eden, Roxie Hart in Chicago, and, most recently, the title role in Piaf. Further, Frances can be seen in a fun cameo in the recent LES MISERABLES film. Cover charge $30-40. $25 food & beverage minimum.

LATE NIGHT: THE STUDIO; 22 AT 54: NYU GRADUATE MT WRITING PROGRAM, May 22 at 11PM:

A concert featuring original work from NYU's Graduate MT Writing Program Cycle 22 to benefit ASTEP: Artists Striving To End Poverty. Joe Iconis ("Smash") hosts the event, which features performances by Benjamin Eakeley (On a Clear Day..., Sweeney Todd), Jenny Fellner (Wicked, Pal Joey), Jason Gotay (F$%King Up Everything, Bring It On), Sara Jean Ford (How to Succeed..., Phantom of the Opera), Karl Josef Co (Allegiance), Megan McGinnis (Les Miserables, Little Women), Curtis Wiley (Jersey Boys, national tour), Jason "Sweettooth" Williams (Joe Iconis & Family) and Remy Zaken (Spring Awakening). THE STUDIO series at 54 Below is the place to see up-and-coming New York talent. You don't want to miss this exciting evening. No cover charge. $20 food & beverage minimum.

LATE NIGHT: 54 PIANO BAR, May 23 at 11PM:

On Thursdays at 11 pm, pick a song and join extraordinary pianist and host Brian Nash as you take your turn on the stage at 54 Piano Bar. See new Broadway talent perform on a whim, and perhaps take part in the ever-popular (and inevitable) audience sing along. No cover charge. $20 food & beverage minimum.

Charlie Rosen'S BROADWAY BIG BAND, May 24 at 11PM:

BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND! A full sized jazz orchestra composed of seventeen musicians all play bandleader Charlie Rosen's re-imagined arrangements of an eclectic mix of tunes from Broadway's past, present and beyond! Both modern and classic showtunes are on display in this hugely unique and winning evening, sung by the best and brightest of Broadway's young generation of leading performers in the timeless tradition of a big band. Guest vocalists include: Nick Blaemire (Godspell, Dogfight), Tony Award winner Jason Robert Brown (The Last Five Years, Parade), Ariana DeBose (Bring It On, Motown), Tony Award nominee Santino Fontana (Cinderella), Zak Resnick (Mamma Mia!), and the band's resident vocalist, Monet Julia Sabel. Cover charge $20-30. $25 food & beverage minimum.

SONDHEIM UNPLUGGED, May 26 at 7PM:

A celebrated New York event since 2010, the Bistro Award-winning series Sondheim Unplugged features some of Broadway and cabaret's most dynamic voices, accompanied by piano only. Expect tunes from A Little Night Music, Company, Into the Woods, Follies, Passion, Dick Tracy and more. Past special guests have included original Sondheim cast members such as Len Cariou, Victoria Mallory & Donna McKechnie. Special guests include: Joy Franz (Into the Woods' original Stepmother), Hunter Herdlicka (Henrik in the 2009 A Little Night Music revival), Ann Morrison (Merrily We Roll Along's original Mary), and Sarah Rice (Sweeney Todd's original Johanna). Also featuringJim Brochu (Drama Desk Winner, Zero Hour), Vivian Reed (Bubbling Brown Sugar), Julie Reyburn (MAC, Bistro & Nightlife Award winner) and Lucia Spina (Kinky Boots). Sondheim Unplugged is hosted by series creator Phil Geoffrey Bond, who will fill the audience in on Sondheimien facts, history & assorted tidbits of theatrical lore! Cover charge $20-30. $25 food & beverage minimum.

SIMPLY STREISAND, May 26 at 9:30PM:

In this celebration of all things Babs, some of Broadway and cabaret's finest voices celebrate the music of a legend. From Funny Girl to The Way We Were to little gems from A Star is Born, Yentl, and her more than 45 best-selling albums, Barbra Streisand has stood the test of time like no other artist. At Simply Streisand, you'll hear an array of music from her catalogue, accompanied by a three piece band with narration from 54 Below's own Director of Programming (and host of the popular Sondheim Unplugged), Phil Geoffrey Bond, who will fill the audience in on special bits of Streisand lore, history, assorted tales, and out and out gossip (from her penchant for perfection to her affair with Don Johnson). From her humble beginnings in the cabarets of Greenwich Village straight through to her mega-stardom, Simply Streisand covers it all! Cover charge $20-30. $25 food & beverage minimum.

THE FOLLOWING SHOWS HAVE BEEN ADDED:

WBGO JAZZ SERIES: Benny Goodman & OTHER JOYS, May 28 at 7PM & 9PM:

A quick return by popular demand of the thrilling Benny Goodman tribute concert these jazz masters performed at 54 Below earlier this month. Don't miss this fabulous exhibition of virtuoso musicianship honoring the music of Benny Goodman. A thrilling introduction for those who haven't yet experienced the wonders of the 54 Below/WBGO Jazz Series and a not to be missed event for jazz fans. Featuring jazz masters Ken Peplowski, Bucky Pizzarelli, Jay Leonhart, Ehud Asherie, and Willie Jones III. Cover charge $25-35. $15 food & beverage minimum.

Charles Busch, May 29 at 9:30PM:

Charles Busch makes a triumphant return to 54 Below! Whether he's playing a Westchester housewife who's preparing her cabaret tribute to Edith Piaf, Cinderella's much maligned stepmother in the style of MildrEd Pierce, or the tough but warm-hearted owner of a speakeasy, performance legend Charles Busch continues to delight and re-define his craft as a master humorist, illusionist and camp icon. The author of dozens of hit plays (Tale of the Allergists Wife, Red Scare on Sunset, Flipping My Wig, Times Square Angel, Our Leading Lady, The Third Story, Die! Mommie! Die!, Psycho Beach Party, The Divine Sister & Vampire Lesbians of Sodom to name but a few) Back by popular demand for one more special performance, joined by Musical Director Tom Judson. Expect laughter, music, tears and sequins. But no boas.Cover charge $30-40. $25 food & beverage minimum.

Isabel Rose, May 30 at 7PM:

With arrangements that match Michael Bublé's for their lush, imaginative interpretation of standards and contemporary fare alike, Isabel Rose delivers a high-energy, toe-tapping evening of crowd-pleasing favorites. Compared to Ann-Margret by Jazz Times, Isabel is more Vegas than cabaret, though her roots lie squarely in the Great American Songbook. 60′s favorites like Reflections and Peter Gunn share the bill with That's All and This Could Be The Start of Something Big. Sure to be a night of glamorous, cheeky and hard swinging fun! Cover charge $30-40. $25 food & beverage minimum.

Nick Blaemire & THE HUSTLE, May 31 at 11PM:

Born out of the hi-fi's in their parents' suburban living rooms, this seven piece band blends their love for the surprising time and harmony changes of r&b, funk and jazz with infectious pop melodies to create their very own brand of "nerd soul." After releasing their debut EP last year, they've been selling out shows around the country. The Hustle came to be as a product of the Broadway community - Nick and keyboardist/arranger Jesse Vargas met while working on Broadway's short lived Glory Days, amassing their band from some of the most talented and sought after musicians in New York. Nick himself has appeared on the Great White Way in shows such as Godspell and Cry-Baby, off-Broadway in Dogfight and The Black Suits, and on television in The Big C, Law & Order and Zero Hour. Cover charge $25-35. $25 food & beverage minimum.

Matthew Morrison, June 1 at 8PM:

Emmy, Tony, and two-time Golden Globe-nominated star Matthew Morrison may be best known for his performances in hit Broadway shows such as Hairspray, South Pacific and The Light in the Piazza, or for his role as Mr. Schuester on the hit television show, GLEE. Now, join Matthew as he celebrates the release of his brand new studio album, Where It All Began (released on June 4!). Featured on the recording are a collection of classic standards, many of which were first made famous in Broadway musicals. To create the twelve songs featured on this exciting new album, Morrison turned to legendary producer Phil Ramone (who produced the likes of Frank Sinatra & Tony Bennett, among MANY others), and Grammy Award-winning producer Gregg Field. The collection marks the first release from 222 Records, the newly formed label from Adam Levine. You can place your pre-order now on Amazon. Cover charge $75. $25 food & beverage minimum.

THE CAST OF CHICAGO, June 1 at 11PM:

Get up close and personal with the cast of Chicago, both past and present, as they celebrate 16 razzle dazzle years on Broadway. Look forAdam Pascal, Christine Pedi, Paige Davis and a host of others belting out some of their favorite tunes, ranging from Broadway favorites to pop hits, and all that jazz. A portion of the proceeds will benefit U.S. Veterans in honor of Memorial Day. Additional cast members TBA.Cover charge $25-35. $25 food & beverage minimum.

To purchase tickets or for more information, visit www.54Below.com or call (866) 468-7619.

54 BELOW, Broadway's nightclub, is the new performance venue in the grand tradition of New York City nightlife. A few blocks from the heart of Times Square and just below the legendary Studio 54, 54 BELOW is a classically designed state-of-the art nightclub in the theatre district that hosts audiences with warmth and style.

Designed by Tony Award winner John Lee Beatty and architect Richard Lewis, lit by Tony Award winner Ken Billington, and with sound by Tony Award nominee Peter Hylenski, 54 BELOW features an in-your-living-room intimate relationship between its performers and audiences. Tony Award winner Scott Wittman serves as Creative Consultant and MAC Award Winner Phil Geoffrey Bond serves as Director of Programming.

54 BELOW is owned and operated by Tony Award winning producers Tom Viertel, Marc Routh, Richard Frankel, and Steven Baruch. 54 BELOW features up to three shows nightly and has audio and video recording capabilities. The cover charge ranges from $15-$115.

54 BELOW is located at 254 West 54th Street. Tickets and information are available at www.54Below.com.

Photo Flash: Miss NY, ANNIE Orphans and More Perform at West Side YMCA Benefit

Sun, 19 May 2013 19:44:18 PST

On Monday May 13th, the Marjorie S. Deane Little Theater in the historic West Side YMCA played host to a completely sold out crowd for their 3rd annual "Little Theater, Big Dreams" benefit cabaret. Scroll down for photos from the evening!

Highlights of the evening included an updated version of "I Won't Grow Up" from Peter Pan featuring the orphans of Broadway's Annie along with the West Side Y's Kids Company performing group, Ryan Kasprzak and Ryan VanDenBoom's delightfully silly "Fit as a Fiddle" dance number, a clever take on "Trouble" from Music Man for the opening number featuring host David Rossetti and Kids Company and even a special appearance by Mikey, the understudy for 'Sandy' in Annie.

Other Broadway performers who raised their voices for the event included: Justin Barnette, Jared Thomas Bradshaw, Kathy Calahan, Megan Lewis, Desi Oakley, Shannon Oliver (Miss New York), Amanda LaVergne and Laurie Veldheer.

It was a record-breaking year for both attendance and overall fundraising and all the proceeds will benefit the on-going youth theatre programs supported by the Y's Strong Kids Campaign.

For more information, visit www.ymcanyc.org/westside and or find the event on Facebook: www.facebook.com/LTBDBenefitCabaret.

David Rossetti (host) & Katie Borrel (West Side Y's Kids Company member) start the evening.

David Rossetti and the West Side Y's Kids Company sing about "Trouble"..."right here in NEW YORK CITY!"

David Rossetti and the West Side Y's Kids Company ode to Music Man

JarEd Thomas Bradshaw sings "Everybody Says Don't".

David Rossetti emceeing the evening

Justin Barnette makes the audience laugh and ends with the hilarious "Bigger is Better"

Desi Oakley & the West Side Y's Kids Company sing "Bushel & a Peck"

Desi Oakley & the West Side Y's Kids Company button the number with a hug

Kathy Calahan sings about everyone's favorite dessert, "Ice Cream"

Laurie Veldheer & Desi Oakley belt out "I Will Never Leave You"

Laurie Veldheer & Desi Oakley, two real life best friends, soak in the applause.

Megan Lewis & the West Side Y's Kids Company hope you "remember their name!"

Megan Lewis & the West Side Y's Kids Company present "FAME!"

Amanda LaVergne takes the stage for her solo

Amanda LaVergne sings "My Lifelong Love"

Ryan VanDenBoom & Ryan Kasprzak are "Fit as a Fiddle"

Ryan VanDenBoom & Ryan Kasprzak end with a bang!

Mikey ('Sandy') & David Rossetti

'Annie' Orphans - Madi Rae DiPietro (behind book), Brooklyn Shuck, Junah Jang (behind book), Jaidyn Young, Tyrah Skye Odoms, Sadie Sink sing "I Won't Grow Up!"

Madi Rae DiPietro & Jaidyn Young don't want to grow up.

Annie Orphans - Madi Rae DiPietro, Jaidyn Young, Brooklyn Shuck, Jaidyn Young, Tyrah Skye Odoms, Sadie Sink & Junah Jang do an ode to Wicked in their crowd-pleasing "I Won't Grow Up"

Annie orphans and the West Side Y's Kids Company

Shannon Oliver (Miss New York) and the West Side Y's Kids Company

Curtain Call of "Thank You for the Music" with the full "Little Theater, Big Dreams" Cast

Top Row: David Rossetti, Justin Barnette, K. Calahan, D. Oakley, JarEd Thomas Bradshaw, Ryan VanDenBoom, Ryan Kasprzak Front: Sadie Sink, Brooklyn Shuck, Tyrah Skye Odoms, Junah Jang, Jaidyn

Ryan VanDenBoom, David Rossetti & Ryan Kasprzak

Ryan VanDenBoom & Ryan Kasprzak

JarEd Thomas Bradshaw & David Rossetti

Desi Oakley & David Rossetti

Justin Barnette & David Rossetti

Madi Rae DiPietro, Sadie Sink, Brooklyn Shuck, Tyrah Skye Odoms, Jaidyn Young, Junah Jang

BWW Interviews: Deborah Boily Talks Cabaret, Career, and Concert

Sun, 19 May 2013 19:55:22 PST

Deborah Boily is preparing for her cabaret performance of DEBORAH BOILY - ONE NIGHT ONLY. DEBORAH BOILY SOLO is a celebration of her career and the 10-year anniversary of her live album THANK YOU FOR THE MUSIC. At the cabaret she will sing songs off of her albums THANK YOU FOR THE MUSIC and THE SONG REMEMBERS WHEN. Deborah Boily will also showcase her theatrical side with a set entitled "Roles I Never Got to Play." Despite her busy schedule preparing this thrilling night of entertaining song, she carved out a few minutes to sit down with me and discuss her career and her upcoming June 1st cabaret show at Ovations.

Me: How did you first get involved in theatre, and when did you know you wanted to perform as a profession?

Deborah Boily: I'm going to tell my whole story at the show, but when I was eleven years old, my dad came home with a Hi-Fi, which in those days was nothing more than a record player on legs. (Laughs) And about five albums of Broadway musicals. When I started listening to those musicals, it just felt like that was something I wanted to do. That never changed, so I guess you can say when I was eleven. That's not when I got involved in theatre, but that's when I made the decision that I wanted to perform.

The Broadway music just appealed to me so much. I found myself fantasizing that I was performing these characters in the play. At one point, I took that same Hi-Fi into my bedroom. I would decide what album I wanted to listen to, and I would just play it over and over and over and over again. I did that with THE FANTASTICKS. Oh my God! I saw a production of that as a junior in high school, got the album, and then I just listened to it. I was completely obsessed by it. I just knew that was what I wanted to do.

Then, I actually got involved in theatre in high school, and in college more actively. I majored in music and changed my major from music to drama. In music school, in those days, you could not major in musical theatre. You had to study classical music. And that was just never going to be me, so I changed my major to theatre.

And professionally, I guess you could say, I became a professional in 1976. That's when I got my equity card.

Me: When did you transition from performing in theatre to being a cabaret singer? What was this transition like?

Deborah Boily: In 1990 I wrote my first little show. I had always been drawn to really intimate theatre and little shows. They always came to my attention. I was interested in that form of theatre, art, and performing for a very long time. But when I decided to write my first show, I decided that I should probably try to get it into some cabaret rooms. The first show I wrote was called, I ALWAYS WANTED TO BE FRENCH. I premiered it here in town at Ovations and some other little theaters here in town. Then, I went to New York and tried it out. I even went to Canada, to the fringe festivals, and did it there. That was my start in cabaret.

Me: You lived and performed in both Paris and London. What were those experiences like?

Deborah Boily: Yeah, you know, it was like Charles Dickens said, "It was the best of times, and the worst of times." (Laughs) I was full of fear. It was scary as hell. I was leaving America, leaving home, to pursue a dream. Yes, I knew Paris pretty well, and I spoke the language to some degree, but it was distressing going to a foreign place. I knew a few people I could depend on, but I didn't know that many people.

I did get to perform, especially in London. In London, I performed at every cabaret room in town. But the reason I left Paris was because I realized that what I do is not something that the French wanted. At the time-well, they still are-very much into Jazz. They were really in love with the Jazz singers, and that was never going to be me. I realized in order to get to do what I really loved to do it wasn't going to happen there, which is ironic because my going there to sing French music went 180 degrees. They didn't want to hear an American do French music. They wanted to hear Americans do what Americans are known for, which is Blues and Jazz. That's why I decided if I really wanted to stick with performing cabaret, I was going to have to try London, which I did.

Me: At your June 1st concert, you'll be performing a set entitled "Roles I Never Got to Play." What was your inspiration for this set?

Deborah Boily: Well, I like to come up with interesting ways to broach a subject. It's easy enough to just go "Oh, let's do a Broadway show." I sing on a lot of very small, high-end ships, so I have to create a lot of shows for them. And I didn't just want to do a show called "Broadway." It's just too normal and too predictable. So, years ago I came with the title of "Roles I Never Got to Play" because that has been a big factor in my life. I never really fit one particular mold. I was always an ingénue looking kid and an ingénue looking woman with an Alto kind of voice and a character personality, so I was very hard to cast. There were many many roles that I did not get cast in but would have loved to sung that music. So, as a cabaret singer, what's wonderful is that you can sing that music because you can put it in any key you want. You can sing any role you want, even if it's a man's role. And you can sing a character of any age. You just make it your own! "Roles I Never Got to Play" is based on a lot of truth, and I'll be telling those stories on stage in the show.

Me: Without giving away too much, what songs can your audience expect to hear during this set?

Deborah Boily: Well, you're going to hear some Rogers and Hammerstein because those were my very first influences. I'm going to do "I Have Dreamed," which is a song from THE KING AND I. It's usually done very quickly and very unthrillingly in any production I have seen, and it's a shame. That song is gorgeous, and it's full of emotional connection. I've found an arrangement, which was originally done by Nancy LaMott, who was one of my idol cabaret singers. She died back in the mid-90s, at a very early age, of ovarian cancer. Her arrangement, done by Christopher Marlowe, is an arrangement I have cherished and loved for years. I'm going to do that.

I'm going to sing a song called "Alto's Lament," which seems like it could have been written for me. It's about an Alto who always wants to do the Soprano part, and she never gets to. That was written by Zina Goldrich and Marcy Heisler. It's not from a show. It's a novelty song. But, they're two women who write together for the theatre and for cabaret.

And then, I'm going to probably end that section with a really beautiful song, written, surprisingly enough, by the two men from ABBA. Not too many people realize they wrote a musical. They kind of wrote CHESS with Tim Rice, but after that they wrote a musical, which debuted in Malmö, Sweden in 1995 called KRISTINA FRÅN DUVEMÅLA. It's an epic epic musical about a young married couple who leaves Sweden in the 1800s because of famine. They come over to the United States, which is what a lot of Scandinavians did. That's why there's so many people of Scandinavian heritage in the Upper-Midwest. They survived the six or four month voyage by sea, they survived Indian attacks, they survived Small Pox, and all kinds of stuff. At one point in the show she has a very big crisis of faith. You can imagine why, after all of that. And she sings a song called "You Have to Be There." It was translated a few years ago by Björn Ulvaeus and Herbert Kretzmer. I think in anticipation that it would eventually be done on Broadway. It is just an incredibly dramatic and beautiful song. She's asking God if he's there. Actually, she's saying, "You have to be there. I just don't know what I'm going to do. After all these years of counting on you, you really don't exist." So that's just a little bit of a teaser of what I'm going to be doing.

Me: You'll also be performing songs off of your CDs THE SONG REMEMBERS WHEN and THANK YOU FOR THE MUSIC. How did you select what numbers to perform off of these albums?

Deborah Boily: The album THE SONG REMEMBERS WHEN is actually named after a country song sung by Trisha Yearwood. I love the story in it. I'm really an actress who sings. That's truly what I am. I love stories. And all of the songs on that album really were telling the story of my adventures to Paris and moving to a foreign country. THANK YOU FOR THE MUSIC is the one I recorded ten years ago. I can't believe it's been ten years.

But, a lot of what we're going to do is what Jerry [Atwood] already knows. Jerry is a piano player who plays by ear. He can read very, very slightly, but that's not his strong suit. So, I have to give him music either on YouTube or an MP3 for him to learn it. So, that's really going to dictate-he does know quite a lot of music from both of those albums, and we'll probably be doing "Thank You for the Music," "Asking," and the 60s medley, which I don't do very much.

The premise for THANK YOU FOR THE MUSIC was that great standards were written in every era and every decade, not just the 40s. After Cole Porter, George Gershwin, and all those people. So, the joke is that there is a whole plethora of music that was written in the 60s that was just so intelligent and so genius, and then we do "Itsy Bitsy Teenie Weenie Yellow Polka Dot Bikini," "Witch Doctor," and all that stuff. So, we're probably going to try to resurrect that, which is really cute.

Me: What's the difference between preparing for a musical and a cabaret?

Deborah Boily: For one thing, a musical is already written for you. You've got your script and you know what it is that you're going to have to sing and say. Cabaret shows, you have to start from scratch. You have to come up with an idea, a concept, and something you want to talk about.

I think THANK YOU FOR THE MUSIC was a great example. Everybody's always saying that the best music was written by Cole Porter and George Gershwin. I'm not disputing that at all, but people don't get to hear the stuff written today. They don't really think about the wonderful composers that are around or that have been around other than those guys.

I originally called the show, I'VE GOT MY STANDARDS. Then we came across the song, "Thank You for the Music," which I had already heard years ago, but we just sort of came across it again. I thought, "Ah! You know I could do the show with 'Thank You for the Music.' That might be a good idea. And I could use it as the title." The singing is then presenting the hypothesis that this wonderful music is written in every decade, and then going about proving that.

So, once you've got your show's concept, then you have to go about researching music. It's not always easy to find the songs you want. You have to research it and track down how you can get the music. I've had to track down people in the oddest places trying to get music they'd written. Then you put it in the right key. And then you have to publicize. The amount of work that goes into a cabaret show will never show up in that one or two hours on stage. People haven't got the slightest idea of just how much time, energy, and passion-passion is the number one driving point-that it takes in order to do an intelligent, sophisticated, and really worth while show. It really takes a lot. And I'm really ambitious. I don't want to just slough off a bunch of songs and pretend that it's great. I can't do that. I just can't. I put a lot of thought into what I'm doing.

Me: You also teach performance skills. What are the most rewarding aspects of teaching?

Deborah Boily: Well, for me, what I love to work with people on is getting them to understand the importance of connecting with their audience. Getting to get them to understand how much they have to connect with the song and to realize that they are a storyteller, an actor, and a character in this three-minute monologue. It just happens to be put to music. But they are acting a story.

I'm not someone who loves to teach technique. I can, and I'm quite capable and able to do it. And I do have what I consider healthy technique when I sing, but it's not what thrills me. What thrills me is to get people involved in the story of the song and to realize that when they get completely in the moment and honest about being in that moment, they will be able to hear a pin drop in that room.

Me: What advice would you offer to others hoping to make a career as a performer?

Deborah Boily: I would say follow your inner voices and go for it. Just do it. An old man told me years ago, when I was making all these radical changes in my life, he said, "You know, when you're old an dying, you'll never regret what you did."

If you don't want to regret missing DEBORAH BOILY - ONE NIGHT ONLY at Ovations Night Club, 2536 Times Boulevard, Houston you can purchase advance tickets for $25 at https://buy.ticketstothecity.com/purchase.php?event_id=2258.

Photo Courtesy of Deborah Boily.

Mykal Kilgore & Zoe Sarnak Set for NEW VOICES Concert Tonight

Mon, 20 May 2013 00:30:00 PST

The acclaimed series 'Monday Nights, New Voices' will return to the Duplex Cabaret Theatre tonight, May 20^th, 2013 produced by composer Scott Alan.

The 7pm concert will be hosted by 2007 'New Voice' alumni Mykal Kilgore. Kilgore has since gone on to star in Hair Revival on Broadway and the 1^st National Touring company of The Book of Mormon.

Those being celebrated will be Max Chernin, Ashley Dillard, Bethany Fagan, Philly Lopez and Tony Ponella. The New Voices will sing the songs of up-and-coming composer Zoe Sarnak.

Paul Staroba will return as musical director.

Zoe Sarnak (Writer) Zoe Sarnak is a composer, lyricist and playwright. She graduated from Harvard University in 2009 magna cum laude and Phi Beta Kappa. Sarnak wrote the book, music and lyrics for The Quad, developed and performed at Harvard's Loeb Experimental Theatre. Her music has been showcased in concerts including Cutting Edge Composers, NYTB D-Lounge, Composers Sing Composers, A Very MARY Holiday Gala at Playwrights Horizons and many more. Sarnak has four full-length musicals in development including Mixtape, featured in Silent Street Productions 2012 season and A Lasting Impression, winner of Pace New Musicals 2012 and performed off-Broadway at the 4th Street Theatre at NYTW in August of 2012. A Lasting Impression won the 2013 NJ Playwright's contest and will be produced there regionally in Summer 2013. You can get updates on all of Zoe's projects on Twitter at @zoesarnak

Jeff Blumenkrantz, Caroline Bowman and More Set for SONGS IN THE KEY OF EQUALITY Tonight

Mon, 20 May 2013 00:30:00 PST

Tonight, May 20 some of the brightest stars on the musical theater and cabaret scene will converge at Greenwich Village nightclub Le Poisson Rouge to benefit Swish, an organization of straight allies for the LGBT movement.

Held annually since 2008, Songs in the Key of Equality has presented a potpourri of talent that draws from New York's rich musical communities. For one night, nightclub chanteuses, singer-actors, folkies, rockers and dance divas will meet on one stage in what has become a signature musical event.

Since its inception, Songs in the Key of Equality has played to sold-out, standing-room crowds as diverse as the talent arrayed onstage. The freewheeling night goes beyond the standard presentation of stage acts. With two bars and in a cave-like setting, Le Poisson Rouge is the crown jewel of the Bleecker Street club strip. Boasting one of the best sound systems in town, its ambiance breaks down the "fourth wall" between audience and performer and encourages everyone to get up and dance. And not only inside the club - for the first time this year, the event will be streaming around the world.

Among the more than 16 performers already signed for this year's show, include Broadway vets and current cast members from Tony-nominated shows:

• Jeff Blumenkrantz: Tony-nominee (Urban Cowboy score) and Fred Ebb Award winner has composed for Audra McDonald and Megan Mullally, among others.

• Caroline Bowman, currently appearing in Tony-nominated hit Kinky Boots

• Christine DeCicco, who alternated the title role of Evita with Elena Rogers in the recent Broadway revival, currently starring in Spider-Man: Turn Off the Dark

• Jill Paic e, whose Broadway include Curtains and one of the four multi-character roles in The 39 Steps, and the concert staging of Company with Neil Patrick Harris

• Molly Tynes, appearing in Tony-nominated revival of Pippin

• Ryann Redmond and Gregory Hainey from Tony-nominated Bring it On

• Event host Sara Haines, contributing correspondent and host of "Backstage Pass" for NBC's Today Show webcast alongside Kathie Lee Gifford and Hoda Kotb

The show is directed by Stephen Brotebeck (Ghost, Peter and the Starcatcher) and music directed by BrIan Taylor (Evita, Mary Poppins).

The spirit that pervades Songs in the Key of Equality is a perfect reflection of Swish itself.

In 2003, a small group of straight women wanted to make a direct contribution to the struggles they were witnessing among their gay friends. Soon, this core group of "fag hags and damn proud of it" was active in Los Angeles and New York, which remains home base and at the heart of the organization's activities.

Swish long ago superseded its "fag hag" origins. Today, Swish boasts a diverse membership that includes gay men, straight men, lesbians - anyone willing to contribute to the fight for equality.

The unique contribution of Swish to the gay rights movement has earned it several high honors: three times by Heritage of Pride, producer of New York's giant Pride March and once by Christopher Street West, producer of the Los Angeles Pride. In 2008, Swish was selected to represent the United States at EuroPride, the annual pan-European mega-Pride, a singular honor.

As its marquee event, Songs in the Key of Equality not only provides one of the most eclectic and electric talent lineups. It also serves as a platform for Swish's vision of a world where all love between two adults is equal and recognized by our leaders and laws. Many audience members who come to experience the music have been inspired to become active in Swish upon being acquainted with its unique contributions to the LGBT rights movement.

Songs in the Key of Equality is Swish's major annual fund-raiser. The money helps fund core programs, including:

• "Swish Pride," an ongoing initiative to increase straight allies' participation in Pride events around the world

• "Give a Swish," which aides LGBT groups in their day-to-day work and creates opportunities for straight allies to join coalitions in support of legislative campaigns

• "Swish Nights OUT," regularly occurring gay-straight educational, networking and social events

• "Swish Voices," a blog that amplifies the personal stories of members and partners.

The past few years have been the most exciting in furthering LGBT rights in this country since the Stonewall Riots in 1969. The marriage equality movement has moved from state to state, election victory to election victory, culminating in two pending U.S. Supreme Court cases. Two years ago, the Pentagon finally ended the unworkable Don't Ask Don't Tell, which meant LGBT military personnel could finally serve openly. The "It Gets Better" campaign to fight bullying solicited video responses from everyone from Barack Obama to Nelson Mandela. Pro sports leagues did a 180-degree turn from rampant homophobia to becoming some of our strongest straight allies. The mayor of Houston and a Wisconsin U.S. senator are both lesbians, and a lesbian is poised to become the next mayor of New York.

The 3,000 members of Swish are proud to be have played a part of this historic movement for the past decade. By coming down to Le Poisson Rouge onMay 20, you too can become a part of what has been called the "civil rights movement of our time."

Ally Sponsor Package: $1,000: Includes 4 VIP tickets with all benefits, branded "RESERVED FOR" table signage, brand placement in on-site event materials (RSVP by 5/1), and 4 places of honor on Swish's 10th Anniversary Pride float at the NYC Pride March on June 30.

VIP Ticket: $250: Includes premiere center stage seating, premium open bar, passed hors d'oeuvres, and a post-show meet-and-greet with the cast.

Premium Ticket: $150: Includes priority center stage seating, limited open bar, passed hors d'oeuvres, and post-show meet-and-greet with Cast.

General Admission Ticket: $75: Includes priority seating, cash bar and pre- and post-show buffet.

Live Streaming Ticket: $20: New this year. The perfect opportunity for Swish members and supporters outside the NYC Metro Area to attend the show "virtually"! (You will receive log on information several days prior to the show.)

"Standing" Room Ticket $25: For a limited time only, these "standing" room tickets include a reserved bar stool with an excellent view of the show!

Tickets are available at exclusively at donate.swishpride.org/SwishConcert2013.

Le Poisson Rouge is located at 158 Bleecker Street, between Sullivan Street and Thompson Street. It is a short walk from the W. 4th Street Subway Station's A, C, E, B, D, F and Q trains. It is also near the 1 Christopher Street Subway Station.

Brian d'Arcy James and More Join Kevin Cole for DreamCatcher Benefit Concert Tonight

Mon, 20 May 2013 00:30:00 PST

Great American pianist Kevin Cole [fresh from Carnegie Hall, protégé of Marvin Hamlisch], with special guests Brian d'Arcy James [Shrek; Next to Normal], K Lea Black hurst [Everything the Traffic Will Allow], and Ryan VanDenBoom [Annie] will perform a Benefit Concert to support DreamCatcher Entertainment, an independent theatre and film company, celebrating their 5th Anniversary.

Tonight, May 20th, 8pm at the Dicapo Theatre, the room will be bursting with music, song, and tap dancing as the artists perform selections from the Great American Songbook. The evening will be echoed on Thursday, May 23rd, 8pm with a company celebration and relaunch, highlighting DCE's projects of the past, present, and a "sneak peak" into the future. Tickets are $25 for each evening and are available at www.jointhedream.biz.

DreamCatcher Entertainment, now a multi-media Production Company, began in Summer 2008 by producing a bare-bones workshop production of Artistic Director Kelly Feustel's full-length play, Peter at Queens Theatre in the Park. In the last five years, DCE has grown: having produced 6 additional plays, a monthly play reading series [Talent on Tap: Draught], 7 short films, and anticipates the launch of it's Music Department on May 15th. The DreamCatchers also offer their services as a Production & General Management company for hire, having worked on events and projects such as Twilight: the Musical, In the Bar of a Tokyo Hotel [both at New World Stages] and Maria Torres Emerging Artists Foundation Holiday Show [Poet's Den Theater]. DCE thrives on collaboration and workshopping, offering artists a safe environment to test new work, and develop projects in any stage. Each October, the DreamCatchers host a short play competition, Terror Tales, in which the winning playwright [by audience & guest judge vote] is commissioned for the next year to re-imagine a classic Horror Story and set it in modern day NYC. Help the DreamCatchers continue what they do: provide professional, innovative entertainment at affordable prices; and maintain a safe haven for rising artists to develop work for industry professionals and peers.

Kevin Cole with K Lea Black hurst, Ryan VanDenBoom and Brian d'Arcy James will sing, play, and tap in a benefit concert for DreamCatcher Entertainment at the Dicapo Opera Theatre, 184 E. 76th St., New York, NY, tonight, May 20, 2013 at 8 p.m. Tickets are $25. Visit www.jointhedream.com or purchase at the door (limited seating).

The DreamCatchers and collaborators will celebrate 5 years with a showcase of projects past, present, and future at the Dicapo Opera Theatre on Thursday, May 23, 2013 at 8 p.m. Tickets are $25 at www.jointhedream.com or at the door (limited seating).