BroadwayWorld.com Cleveland Stories

BWW Reviews: SOUTH PACIFIC Lights Up Porthouse

Sun, 16 Jun 2013 18:30:36 PST

Richard Rogers and Oscar Hammerstein, Jr. are considered the fathers of modern American musical theatre. Their OKLAHOMA opened the door to musicals with meaningful storylines, and the integration of lyrics, dancing and music to help move the plot along.

As with all of Rogers and Hammerstein's musicals, there is a strong societal and moral base. This aspect of their scripts is usually highlighted by a key song. In SOUTH PACIFIC, which is the opening show of Porthouse Theatre's 2013 season, it's the poignant You Have to Be Carefully Taught which keys the concepts of racism and prejudice that underscores the story.

Premiering in 1949, the original Broadway production, which starred Mary Martin and Ezio Pinza, became the second longest running musical of its time. That production won ten Tony Awards. A 1958 film and a 2008 revival were also critical and audience successes.

Based on James Michener's Pulitzer Prize winning book, THE TALES OF THE SOUTH PACIFIC, the World War II story relates a tale of Nelly Forbush, an army nurse from Little Rock, Arkansas, who falls in love with Emile De Becque, a middle-aged French expatriate plantation owner who has two mixed-race children, and a parallel love story between Lt. Cable, also an American southerner, and Liat, a Tonkinese woman. Because of Forbush and Cable having been imbued with racial biases, both love affairs run into difficulties.

The show is imbedded with wonderful songs including Cockeyed Optimist, Some Enchanted Evening, Bali H'ai, Younger Than Springtime, Happy Talk, and Dites-Moi.

Artistic Director Terri Kent knows her Porthouse audience well, and SOUTH PACIFIC is definitely their kind of show. She directs for audience enjoyment, creating a show filled with joy, sprinkled with pathos. She succeeds well.

Mary Ann Black's choreography is sprightly, Ben Needham's set creates the right Pacific Island atmosphere, and musical director Jonathan Swoboda does a good job with the chorus and lead performers' vocal sounds. The dual pianos sound rather naked playing the lush score. This was a production that could have been aided by a full orchestra.

Though her needed Southern accent came and went, pretty Kayce Cummings (Green) generates the right level of cutesiness to make for a charming Nellie. Her I'm Gonna Wash That Man Right Outa My Hair was delightful.

Cleveland area favorite Gregg Violand has advanced to the age level where he can use his powerful voice to aid in developing a convincing Emile. His consistent French accent adds to the creation of a believable character. His This Nearly was Mine was beautifully interpreted and sung. There is a nice connection between Cummings and Violand.

Tim Welsh delights as the scheming con-man Luther Billis. Honey Bun, sung with the Cummings, was an audience favorite.

Kaishawn Thomas was lovely as Liat and, though she didn't quite play enough for the requisite laughs, Coleen Longshaw was an acceptable Bloody Mary.

CAPSULE JUDGMENT: Under the directing abilities of Terri Kent, the Porthouse production of SOUTH PACIFIC makes for a fine evening of summer entertainment.

SOUTH PACIFIC runs until June 29 at Porthouse Theatre, on the grounds of Blossom Music Center. For tickets call 330-672-3884 or go online to www.porthousetheatre.com.

NEXT UP AT PORTHOUSE: WORKING, runs July 4-20, followed by FIDDLER ON THE ROOF, July 25-August 11. Curtain time is 8 PM Tuesdays through Saturdays and 2 PM Sundays. The picnic grounds at Blossom open 90 minutes prior to curtain time.

Now Playing Onstage in Cleveland - Week of 6/16/2013

Sun, 16 Jun 2013 10:00:00 PST

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ANNIE KIDS
INDIAN HILL HIGH SCHOOL
6/21-6/21/2013
Leapin' Lizards! The popular comic strip heroine takes center stage in one of the world's best-loved musicals. With equal measures of pluck and positivity, little orphan ANNIE charms everyone's hearts, despite a next-to-nothing start in 1930s New York City. She is determined to find her parents, who abandoned her years ago on the doorstep of a New York City Orphanage run by the cruel, embittered Miss Hannigan. With the help of the other girls in the Orphanage, ANNIE escapes to the wondrous and magical world of NYC. In adventure after fun-filled adventure, ANNIE foils Miss Hannigan's evil machinations and befriends President Franklin Delano Roosevelt. She finds a new home and family in billionaire Oliver Warbucks, his personal secretary Grace Farrell, and a lovable mutt named Sandy.
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PIRATES OF PENZANCE JR
SYCAMORE SUMMER THEATRE, LLC
6/21-6/21/2013
Wacky, irreverent and as entertaining as it's predecessor from 1879, THE PIRATES OF PENZANCE JR. spins a hilarious farce of sentimental pirates, bumbling policemen, dim-witted young lovers, dewy-eyed daughters and an eccentric Major-General, all morally bound to the often-ridiculous dictates of honor and duty.
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A FUNNY THING...FORUM
ASHTABULA ARTS CENTER
6/7-6/22/2013
Broadway's greatest farce is light, fast-paced, witty, irreverent and one of the funniest musicals ever written. A FUNNY THING HAPPENED ON THE WAY TO THE FORUM takes comedy back to its roots, combining situations from time-tested, 2000 year old comedies of Roman playwright Plautus with the infectious energy of classic vaudeville.A FUNNY THING HAPPENED ON THE WAY TO THE FORUM is a non-stop laugh-fest in which Pseudolus, a crafty slave, struggles to win the hand of a beautiful but slow-witted courtesan named Philia, for his young master, Hero, in exchange for freedom. The plot twists and turns with cases of mistaken identity, slamming doors, and a showgirl or two.This unforgettable, hysterical musical allows a terrific ensemble of comedic actors to shine--"something for everyone, a comedy tonight!"
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THE DROWSY CHAPERONE
TOLEDO REPERTOIRE THEATRE
6/7-6/23/2013
A rare combination of unprecedented originality and blinding talent, THE DROWSY CHAPERONE boldly addresses a great unspoken desire in all of our hearts: to be entertained. If you've ever sat in a dark theatre and thought, "Dear Lord in heaven, please let it be good," this is the show for you!It all begins when a die-hard musical-theater fan plays his favorite cast album on his turntable, and the musical literally bursts to life in his living room, telling the rambunctious tale of a brazen Broadway starlet trying to find, and keep, her true love. Order your copy of "Showing Off with THE DROWSY CHAPERONE" - an informative DVD with advice and production tips from the show's authors and creative staff. Email licensing@mtishows.com to request your FREE copy!
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THE KING AND I
Crown Theater Productions
6/14-6/23/2013
The King and IEast versus West makes for a dramatic, richly textured and ultimately uplifting tale of enormous fascination. It is 1862 in Siam when an English widow, Anna Leonowens, and her young son arrive at the Royal Palace in Bangkok, having been summoned by the King to serve as tutor to his many children and wives. The King is largely considered to be a barbarian by those in the West, and he seeks Anna's assistance in changing his image, if not his ways. With both keeping a firm grip on their r
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DISNEY'S ALICE IN WONDERLAND JR
MANSFIELD PLAYHOUSE
6/14-6/23/2013
Join Alice's madcap adventures in Wonderland as she chases the White Rabbit, races the Dodo Bird, gets tied up with the Tweedles, raps with a bubble-blowing Caterpillar, and beats the Queen of Hearts at her own game! Roles are plentiful, including three Cheshire Cats and dozens of other wonderfully wacky characters. Disney's ALICE IN WONDERLAND JR. is a fast-paced stage adaptation of featuring updated dialogue and new arrangements of such classic Disney songs as "I'm Late," "The Un-birthday Song" and "Zip-A-Dee-Doo-Dah."
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SHREK
MERCURY SUMMER STOCK
6/14-6/29/2013
SHREK THE MUSICAL, based on the OscarÂ® winningDreamWorks film that started it all, brings the hilarious story ofeveryone's favorite ogre to dazzling new life on the stage. Ina faraway kingdom turned upside down, things get ugly when an unseemlyogre "" not a handsome prince "" shows up to rescue a feisty princess.Throw in a donkey who won't shut up, a bad guy with a SHORT temper, acookie with an attitude and over a dozen other fairy tale misfits, andyou've got the kind of mess that calls for a real hero. Luckily,there's one on hand...and his name is Shrek. Full of all-new songs, great dancing and breathtaking scenery, SHREK THE MUSICAL is part romance, part twisted fairy tale and all irreverent fun for everyone!**AVAILABLE FOR LICENSES FOR PERFORMANCES BEGINNING JUNE 2013**
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WORKING
KATHLEEN HOWLAND THEATRE
6/21-6/29/2013
Based on Studs Terkel's best-selling book of interviews with American Workers, WORKING paints a vivid portrait of the men and women the world so often takes for granted: the schoolteacher, the phone operator, the waitress, the millworker, the mason, and the housewife, just to name a few.This new 2010 version of WORKING is a musical exploration of 26 people from all walks of life. While most of the professions have been updated, the strength of the show is in the core truths that transcend specific professions; the key is how people's relationships to their work ultimately reveal key aspects of their humanity, regardless of the trappings of the job itself. The show, still set in contemporary America, contains timeless truths. This new version of WORKING allows the audience to get a rare glimpse of the actors and technicians working to put on a show. This raw adaptation only enhances the realistic and relatable nature of the subject matter.With extremely modest set and orchestra requirements, universal subject matter, and featuring a multi-ethnic ensemble cast of variable size, WORKING is one of the most accessible, relevant and substantive musicals ever created. The new, revised 2010 version includes updated lyrics, a streamlined book and two new songs by IN THE HEIGHTS Tony Award-winning creator Lin-Manuel Miranda, as well as favorite by Stephen Schwartz, Craig Carnelia, and James Taylor.
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ONCE ON THIS ISLAND
BROADVIEW HEIGHTS SPOTLIGHTS COMMUNITY THEATRE
6/20-6/30/2013
ONCE ON THIS ISLAND is a contemporary, Caribbean-flavored musical by the Tony Award-winning songwriting team of Lynn Ahrens and Stephen Flaherty based upon the book My Love, My Love by Rosa Guy.ONCE ON THIS ISLAND is the highly original and theatrical adaptation of the popular fairy tale The Little Mermaid. In almost non-stop song and dance, the show tells the story of Ti Moune, a peasant girl who rescues and falls in love with Daniel, a wealthy boy from the other side of her island. When Daniel is returned to his people, the fantastical gods who rule the island guide Ti Moune on a quest to test the strength of her love against the powerful forces of prejudice, hatred and death.ONCE ON THIS ISLAND is a director's dream, with achievable requirements. Its small band and minimal sets and costumes will capture the imagination of the audience. Its catchy, contemporary, tender ballads and rousing celebratory numbers are ideal for an ensemble cast of strong singers.
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HOW TO SUCCEED IN BUSINESS...TRYING
RABBIT RUN THEATRE
6/13-6/30/2013
Power, sex, ambition, greed... it's just another day at the office. From the authors of GUYS AND DOLLS comes one of the most delightfully irreverent musicals of all time. A satire of big business and all it holds sacred, HOW TO SUCCEED IN BUSINESS WITHOUT REALLY TRYING follows the rise of J. Pierrepont Finch, who uses a little handbook called "How To Succeed In Business Without Really Trying" to climb the corporate ladder from lowly window washer to high-powered executive, tackling such familiar but potent dangers as the aggressively compliant "company man," the office party, backstabbing co-workers, caffeine addiction and, of course, true love.Winner of the 1962 Pulitzer Prize for Drama, HOW TO SUCCEED melds wit, comedy, and romance together to perfection. This show requires a large cast, featuring many roles for all types of performers.
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LES MISERABLES
SPOTLIGHT PLAYERS
6/14-6/30/2013
This international smash-hit may be the most popular musical in the world. In 19th century France, Jean Valjean is released from 19 years of unjust imprisonment, but finds nothing in store for him but mistrust and mistreatment. He breaks his parole in hopes of starting a new life, initiating a life-long struggle for redemption as he is relentlessly pursued by police inspector Javert, who refuses to believe Valjean can change his ways. Finally, during the Paris student uprising of 1832, Javert must confront his ideals after Valjean spares his life and saves that of the student revolutionary who has captured the heart of Valjean's adopted daughter. His world-view shattered, Javert commits suicide, and Valjean at last attains the peace he has sought for so long.Epic, grand and uplifting, LES MISÃ?RABLES packs an emotional wallop that has thrilled audiences all over the world. The sung-through pop opera is ideal for a cast of exceptional singers and overflows with melodies that are already standards. A spectacle on Broadway and in London, LES MISÃ?RABLES is equally effective with a minimal set; it is its powerful affirmation of the human spirit that has made LES MISÃ?RABLES a popular masterpiece.
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THE MUSIC MAN
WEATHERVANE COMMUNITY PLAYHOUSE
6/6-6/30/2013
An affectionate paean to Smalltown, U.S.A. of a bygone era, Meredith Willson's THE MUSIC MAN follows fast-talking traveling salesman Harold Hill as he cons the people of River City, Iowa into buying instruments and uniforms for a boys' band he vows to organize - this despite the fact he doesn't know a trombone from a treble clef. His plans to skip town with the cash are foiled when he falls for Marian the librarian, who transforms him into a respectable citizen by curtain's fall. Perfect for professional theatres, community groups, summer stock and schools alike, this award-winning, critically acclaimed Broadway classic is an all-American institution, thanks to is quirky characters, charmingly predictable dramatic situations, and one-of-a-kind, nostalgic score of rousing marches, barbershop quartets and sentimental ballads which have become popular standards. The cast features a soaring soprano ingenue, parts for young performers and children, and one of the musical theatre's treasures, a tour de force leading role for a charismatic actor who doesn't need to be a trained singer. By turns wicked, funny, warm, romantic and touching, THE MUSIC MAN is family entertainment at its best.
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DISNEY'S THE JUNGLE BOOK KIDS
DEERSVILLE COMMUNITY PLAYERS
6/21-6/30/2013
The jungle is jumpin' with jazz is this exciting Disney classic! Join Mowgli, Baloo, King Louie and the gang as they swing their way through madcap adventures and thwart the ferocious tiger, Shere Khan. Specially adapted from the beloved film, this musical includes all your favorite Disney tunes, like "The Bare Necessities,"� and "I Wan'na Be Like You."� With colorful characters and that toe-tapping jungle rhythm, Disney's THE JUNGLE BOOK KIDS is sure to be a crowd-pleaser for audiences of all ages.
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GODSPELL
STAGE LEFT PLAYERS
6/14-6/30/2013
Conceived and originally directed by John Michael Tebelak, with music and new lyrics by Stephen Schwartz, GODSPELL is one of the biggest off-Broadway and Broadway successes of all time.Based on the Gospel According to St. Matthew, and featuring a sparkling score by Stephen Schwartz, GODSPELL boasts a string of well-loved songs, led by the international hit, "Day By Day." As the cast performs "Prepare Ye The Way Of The Lord," "Learn Your Lessons Well," "All For The Best," "All Good Gifts," "Turn Back, O Man" and "By My Side," the parables of Jesus Christ come humanly and hearteningly to life.Drawing from various theatrical traditions, such as clowning, pantomime, charades, acrobatics and vaudeville, GODSPELL is a groundbreaking and unique reflection on the life of Jesus, with a message of kindness, tolerance and love.GODSPELL RETURNSVisit the official Godpell on Broadway site for tickets and more information on this new production.
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THE SOUND OF MUSIC
La Comedia Dinner Theatre
5/2-6/30/2013
The final collaboration between Rodgers & Hammerstein was destined to become the world's most beloved musical. When a postulant proves too high-spirited for the religious life, she is dispatched to serve as governess for the seven children of a widowed naval Captain. Her growing rapport with the youngsters, coupled with her generosity of spirit, gradually captures the heart of the stern Captain, and they marry. Upon returning from their honeymoon they discover that Austria has been invaded by the Nazis, who demand the Captain's immediate service in their navy. The family's narrow escape over the mountains to Switzerland on the eve of World War II provides one of the most thrilling and inspirational finales ever presented in the theatre. The motion picture version remains the most popular movie musical of all time.Music by Rodgers, Richard; Lyrics by Oscar Hammerstein II; Book by Howard Lindsay & Russel Crouse; Suggested by `The Trapp Family Singers` by Maria Augusta Trapp
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GUYS & DOLLS
GREAT LAKES THEATRE FESTIVAL
5/1-6/30/2013
Set in Damon Runyon's mythical New York City, this oddball romantic comedy - considered by many to be the perfect musical comedy - soars with the spirit of Broadway as it introduces us to a cast of vivid characters who have become legends in the canon: Sarah Brown, the upright but uptight "mission doll," out to reform the evildoers of Time Square; Sky Masterson, the slick, high-rolling gambler who woos her on a bet and ends up falling in love; Adelaide, the chronically ill nightclub performer whose condition is brought on by the fact she's been engaged to the same man for 14 years; and Nathan Detroit, her devoted fiance, desperate as always to find a spot for his infamous floating crap game.Everything works out in the end, thanks to the machinations of Abe Burrows and Jo Swerling's hilarious, fast-paced book and Frank Loesser's bright, brassy, immortal score, which takes us from the heart of Times Square to the cafes of Havana, Cuba, and even into the sewers of New York City. Funny and romantic, GUYS AND DOLLS is ideal for audiences and performers of any age.
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Roald Dahl'S WILLY WONKA in Broadway" border="0" height="100" width="100" align="right"> Roald Dahl'S WILLY WONKA
OHIO VALLEY SUMMER THEATRE
6/20-7/7/2013
Roald Dahl's timeless story of the world-famous candy man and his quest to find an heir comes to life in this stage adaptation ofCharlie and the Chocolate Factory, which features the songs from the classic family filmWilly Wonka and the Chocolate Factory.Roald Dahl's WILLY WONKA, featuring a memorable score by Leslie Bricusse (JEKYLL & HYDE, DOCTOR DOLITTLE) and Anthony Newley, follows enigmatic candy manufacturer Willy Wonka as he stages a contest by hiding five golden tickets in five of his scrumptious candy bars. Whoever comes up with these tickets will win a free tour of the Wonka factory, as well as a lifetime supply of candy. Four of the five winning children are insufferable brats: the fifth is a likeable young lad named Charlie Bucket who takes the tour in the company of his equally amiable grandfather. The children must learn to follow Mr. Wonka's rules in the factory--or suffer the consequences.This scrumdidilyumptious musical is guaranteed to delight everyone's sweet tooth. With this show's flexible cast size, featuring roles for all ages, your production will take audiences on a fantasy ride into the land of pure imagination! Roald Dahl's WILLY WONKA has been created with educators and student performers in mind. This title is ONLY available for amateur groups to license.
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LEGALLY BLONDE
BEAVERCREEK COMMUNITY THEATRE
6/21-7/13/2013
Harvard's beloved blonde takes the stage by pink storm in this fun, upbeat musical about self-discovery. Based on the adored movie, LEGALLY BLONDE: THE MUSICAL stays true to form with a peppy score and playful book. This musical is ridiculously enjoyable from start to finish.Elle Woods appears to have it all. Her life is turned upside-down, however, when her boyfriend dumps her so he can start getting serious about his life and attend Harvard Law. Determined to get him back, Elle uses her charm to get into Harvard Law. At school, she struggles with peers, professors, and Warner Huntington. With the help of Paulette and Emmett, though, Elle quickly realizes her potential and sets out to prove herself to the world.This musical is relatively new to the theatre world, catering to the present-day's generation and culture. LEGALLY BLONDE: THE MUSICAL is perfect for high school and community theatre, featuring a large ensemble and several big song-and-dance numbers.
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THE KING AND I
Ohio Light Opera
6/15-8/8/2013
G2K THE KING AND IThe 'G2K' Getting To Know Series: Uniquely adapted musicals specifically for youth performers. East versus West makes for a dramatic, richly textured and ultimately uplifting tale of enormous fascination. It is 1862 in Siam when an English widow, Anna Leonowens, and her young son arrive at the Royal Palace in Bangkok, having been summoned by the King to serve as tutor to his many children and wives. The King is largely considered to be a barbarian by those in the West
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SOUTH PACIFIC
Porthouse Theatre-Kent State University
6/13-8/10/2013
South PacificSet in an island paradise during World War II, two parallel love stories are threatened by the dangers of prejudice and war. Nellie, a spunky nurse from Arkansas, falls in love with a mature French planter, Emile. Nellie learns that the mother of his children was an island native and, unable to turn her back on the prejudices with which she was raised, refuses Emile's proposal of marriage. Meanwhile, the strapping Lt. Joe Cable denies himself the fulfillment of a future with an innocen
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BWW Reviews: Oft Brilliant, But Flawed MEDEA, Introduces Mamai Theatre

Sat, 15 Jun 2013 11:01:32 PST

Mamaí, Cleveland's newest professional theatre, opened its summer season with a monumental undertaking, a staging of the U.S. premiere of Brendan Kennelly's translation and script modification of Euripides' classic tragedy, MEDEA.

The company's mission is "to create intelligent, relevant classical theatre that offers an artistic home for Cleveland's theatre artists, and equal opportunity for women in the professional theatre community."

MEDEA, considered by many theatre aficionados as one of the greatest plays every written, relates the tale of revenge by Medea, the wife of Jason (of the Argonauts). Medea, noted as a sorceress, was the daughter of Acetes, king of Colchis, who aided Jason to accomplish his quest for the Golden Fleece. Medea fell in love with Jason, killed or assisted in killing her brother, and betrayed her father, in order to assist the handsome and manipulative Jason. They flee to Corinth, where they live for about ten years, rearing two children in relative peace, until Jason, an opportunist, leaves Medea and marries Glauce, the King of Creon's daughter, with his eye on the throne.

Medea's reaction is one of a scorned woman. Jason's betrayal turns her into a vindictive psychopath intent on getting revenge at all costs. She writhes in agony, rants with rage, plots destruction, and acts with no conscience. Asking "Why must a man always be seeking something?" she contends she "will not be a woman civilized by men," and rages against Jayson's infidelity and lack loyalty. The result is fiery death for Glauce and her father, the infanticide of her children, and Jayson losing love, political position, and his heirs.

Euripides leaves the viewer aware that Medea has wreaked her revenge, but, he asks, "At what cost?"

MEDEA holds great importance in my theatrical training. While attending the University of Michigan I had the astonishing experience of working on a production of the script with Dame Judith Anderson portraying Medea, and Jason Robards, Jr, as Jason. That script was the traditional translation by poet Robinson Jeffers, who was also on the Wolverine campus to share his views regarding the play.

Though the basic story is the same, Brendan Kennelly's translation and enhancement makes changes in the plot and its development. The chorus is mainly fragmented into individual characters (a newscaster, several attorneys, a neighbor and a barista). The children are girls rather than boys who would have been Jason's heirs, carrying on his sperm and name. Medea no longer flees in a dragon-pulled chariot provided by her grandfather, the Sun-God. Jason does not collapse in defeat as his dreams of power disappear, realizing his wrongs-a component of classical tragedy.

Kennelly and/or the director, Bernadette Clemens, have added modern touches to the traditional aspects of the story. Present are cell phones, i-pads, lawyers, picket fences, and current language being overlaid over traditional rhyme patterns. Ancient staging devices, such as speaking directly to the audience, are accompanied by interactive spoken lines.

Mamaí's production is filled with brilliance and frustrations.

Tracee Patterson's emotional-breakdown performance is amazing. She grabs and holds every scene in which she appears. Her only flaw, which is minor compared to the outstanding level of her acting, is the difficulty in understanding some of her lines. This was caused by her bending heavily at the waist to illustrate angst, and the director's pattern of having performers speak to the back wall, cutting off understandable sound. Yes, Ensemble's Theatre's stage, on which the play is being performed, is a small space, but the hard walls and high ceilings causes sound problems even when the actors are facing the audience, but when they don't, the words get totally lost.

Also strong is Anne McEvoy's presence as Medea's lawyer. Mary Jane Nottage's opening monologue was well presented, but much too long. Robert Hawkes was excellent as Creon, but one might question why the role had overtones of comedy in both costume and tone.

In fact, the whole presence of farcical shticks, whether during the scene changes, the song selections, the constant primping by Natalie Green, as the newscaster, or the shenanigans of Jean Cummins as the drunk neighbor, is open to debate. These actions often upstaged, drew attention away, from important speeches and characters. Inciting audience laughter during high dramas scenes seemed inappropriate. Was this done to relieve the angst or was this attempts at humor. If the latter, why was this done in a tragedy? Only the director knows.

Jason Kaufman, though displaying the sensual presence of Jason, seemed divorced from performance involvement. Even in the wrenching scene in which the dead bloodied bodies of his children were brought on stage for his viewing and touching, there appeared to be only surface level reaction. (Why the bodies were brought out at all is another of those directorial decisions that begs for explanation, especially with the audience only a few feet from their overwhelming presence.)

CAPSULE JUDGEMENT: MEDEA, a masterpiece example of classical tragedy, is one of the Western world's greatest plays. It is a daunting undertaking. Some directorial decisions and story interpretation in this staging seem questionable, but the production is blessed with a brilliant performance by Tracee Patterson. It's worth going just to see this amazing actress spin her maniacal magic.

Mamaí's MEDEA runs through June 30, 2013 at the Ensemble Theatre, housed in Coventry School, 2843 Washington Blvd, Cleveland Heights. For tickets go to: http://www.mamaitheatreco.org.

Cain Park Opens 75th Anniversary Season with SMOKEY JOE'S CAFE Tonight

Fri, 14 Jun 2013 00:30:00 PST

The City of Cleveland Heights and Cain Park present the Broadway hit Smokey Joe's Café - The Songs of Leiber and Stoller tonight, June 14-June 30 (preview June 13). Directed by Scott Plate, the musical will open in Cain Park's Alma Theater.

SMOKEY JOE'S CAFE will be performed Thursday-Saturday at 7pm and Sundays at 2pm. Tickets are $15 for the June 13 preview and matinee performances (no discounts). Evening performances are $24/22 in advance and $26/24 the day of the show. Tickets can be purchased online at www.ticketmaster.com, in person at Cain Park and by calling 216-371-3000, as well as by mail. More information about ordering can be found at www.cainpark.com/tickets.

Leiber and Stoller, as much as anyone, virtually invented rock 'n' roll, and now their songs provide the basis for an electrifying entertainment that illuminates a golden age of American culture. In an idealized '50s setting, the classic themes of love won, lost and imagined blend with hilarious antics and slice-of-life emotions. Featuring nearly 40 of the greatest songs ever recorded including "Jailhouse Rock", "Love Potion #9", "On Broadway", "Spanish Harlem", and "Stand By Me", SMOKEY JOE'S CAFÉ isn't just great pop music - it's compelling musical theatre for all generations.

The songs made popular by Elvis Presley, The Drifters, The Coasters, Peggy Lee and so many more are brought to life by a stellar ensemble of nine actors.

Kelly Autry plays the suave one who evokes the memory of a young Elvis Presley. Autry has appeared in Love Story at the 14th Street Theatre at Playhouse Square. Nicole Sumlin is the witty one, combining brains and beauty. Sumlin was recently seen as Mayzie LaBird in Seussical at The Fine Arts Association, as Erzulie in Once On This Island for the Orchard Arts Project, and as Sarah in Ragtime as Near West Theatre. Nyla Watson's role is inspired by the titanic rhythm and blues singer Big Mama Thornton. Watson previously played the Witch in Into The Woods at the Clinton Area Showboat Theater and Carlotta in Follies at Baldwin Wallace University. Katherine DeBoer is the throaty voice of experience. DeBoer recently played Diana in the critically acclaimed production of Next To Normal at The Beck Center. Julia Rose Hines suggests the innocence of teenage girls with a hint of a wild side in her role. Hines previously played Val in A Chorus Line and Ariel in Footloose at Straw Hat Theatre.

Rounding out the ensemble is a quartet modeled on The Drifters featuring Ellis Dawson, Darryl Lewis, Eugene Sumlin, and Malik Victorian. Dawson recently appeared as Henry in Next To Normal at the Beck Center. Lewis has been seen on the Cain Park stage as Marty in Dreamgirls and the Lion in The Wiz. Sumlin played several roles at The Barter Theatre in Virginia including Schroeder in You're A Good Man, Charlie Brown and Lemar in Godspell and locally, he recently played a Wickersham Brother inSeussical at The Fine Arts Association and Jimmy in Grand Hotel at Mercury Summer Stock. Victorian has been seen in Follies at Baldwin Wallace University and School House Rock Live! at the Lagniappe Theatre Company.

SMOKEY JOE'S CAFÉ is directed by Scott Plate, who is the chair of the music theatre department at Baldwin Wallace University. Musical direction is by Nathan Motta. Set design & lighting design is by Trad A Burns, costume design is by Tesia Dugan Benson and sound design is by Richard Ingraham. Thomas W. Humes is the show's stage manager.

Cain Park 2013 season sponsors include Friends Of Cain Park, Cuyahoga Arts & Culture, the Ohio Arts Council, Cleveland.com, Intercontinental Hotels - Cleveland, Severance Town Center and Motorcars Honda/Toyota/Scion. Promotional support is provided by WKSU, WCPN, 91.3 The Summit and Z107.9.

Cain Park, a municipally owned and operated summer arts park and one of the nation's oldest landmark outdoor theatres entering its 75th season, is produced by the City of Cleveland Heights and is located on Superior Road between Lee and South Taylor roads.

MadLab and Shepherd Productions Open THE EMPIRE BUILDERS Tonight

Thu, 13 Jun 2013 00:30:00 PST

MadLab and Shephe RD Productions will present The Empire Builders by Boris Vian. Written in 1957, this classic work seems to have been lost to history. With only a couple dozen productions done in the United States since it was written, MadLab and Shepherd are proud to co-produce this unknown piece. Empire Builders will be performed, at 8:00, Thursdays-Saturdays, tonight, June 13-15 and June 20-22 at MadLab, 227 N. 3rd St. Columbus. Tickets cost $15, $12 Students/Seniors, $10 MadLab Members. Call 614-221-5418 or visit www.madlab.net

Thursday June 13 8pm

Friday June 14 8pm

Saturday June 15 8pm

Thursday June 20 8pm

Friday June 21 8pm

Saturday June 22 8pm

The Columbus Foundation, GCAC, and OAC support MadLab throughout the year.

Synopsis:

The Empire Builders follows the Dupont family as they continuously travel up one floor higher in their apartment building every time they hear a mysterious and terrifying noise. While each room gets smaller and smaller, their fear and paranoia gets greater and greater. To add to this, each room contains an unknown creature (The Schmurz) that watches their every move.

Cast

- Jim Azelvandre as Father (Leon)

- Molly St. Cyr as Mother (Anna)

- Mary Beth Griffith as Zenobia (daughter)

- Audrey Rush as Mug (maid)

- Travis Horseman as Neighbor

- Stefan Langer as The Schmurz

Directed by Andy Batt

The GCAC, The Columbus Foundation and the OAC support MadLab throughout the year.

Rory O'Malley to Record Personal Video for '8' at Cleveland Play House; Full Cast Announced!

Mon, 10 Jun 2013 10:19:32 PST

Cleveland Play House, with license from the American Foundation for Equal Rights (AFER) and Broadway Impact, will produce a one-night-only staged reading of "8," a play chronicling the historic trial in the federal constitutional challenge to California's Proposition 8, written by Academy Award-winning screenwriter and AFER Founding Board Member Dustin Lance Black.

"8" is an unprecedented account of the Federal District Court trial in Perry v. Schwarzenegger (now Hollingsworth v. Perry), the case filed by AFER to overturn Proposition 8, which stripped gay and lesbian Californians of the fundamental freedom to marry. The Supreme Court will hand down a decision on the constitutionality of this case in this month.

The reading will be held in the Allen Theatre at PlayhouseSquare, Sunday, June 30, 2013 at 5:00 pm. Tickets are on sale now, at two levels: $25 public ticket (includes reading and post-show discussion), and a limited number of $100 premium tickets (includes priority seating for the reading, post- discussion and a private reception with cast and special guests). All net proceeds will be shared equally between the American Foundation for Equal Rights and the Cleveland chapter of Parents, Families, and Friends of Lesbians and Gays (PFLAG). Call 216-241-6000 or visit clevelandplayhouse.com to purchase tickets.

The 21-person cast of the Cleveland Play House production will feature community leaders including Senator Nina Turner, Cleveland City Councilman Joe Cimperman, Cash Mob creator Andrew Samtoy, and Christopher "Kory" Beale of Cleveland's New 102 (102.1FM), along with many prominent local actors. Contributing personal video messages will be Senator SherRod Brown, Chad Griffin - President, Human Rights Campaign, and Rory O'Malley, Lakewood native, Tony Award nominee and co-founder of Broadway Impact.

Complete "8" Cast (In Alphabetical Order):

Catherine Albers
Heather Anderson Boll
Christopher "Kory" Beale, of Cleveland's New 102 Councilman Joe Cimperman
Celeste Consentino
Jeffrey Grover
Joel Hammer
David Hansen
Charles Kartali
Dan Kilbane
Sarah Kinsey
Peter Lawson Jones
Michael Mauldin
Cameron McKendry
Chris Richards
Andrew Samtoy
Scott Spence
Miles Sternfeld
Senator Nina Turner
Beth Wood
Jimmie Woody

Post-Performance Discussion
Moderator: Dan Moulthrop - CEO, The City Club of Cleveland
Panelists: Tim Downing - National Board of Directors, Human Rights Campaign and Aliya Rahman: Field Director, Equality Ohio. (Third panelist TBA)

To purchase tickets, call 216-241-6000 or visit clevelandplayhouse.com. For information on how your local theater can produce "8," visit: www.8theplay.com.

Photo Credit: Jennifer Broski

Now Playing Onstage in Cleveland - Week of 6/09/2013

Sun, 09 Jun 2013 10:00:00 PST

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DISNEY'S THE JUNGLE BOOK KIDS
CHRISTIAN THEATRE FOR CHILDREN
6/13-6/13/2013
The jungle is jumpin' with jazz is this exciting Disney classic! Join Mowgli, Baloo, King Louie and the gang as they swing their way through madcap adventures and thwart the ferocious tiger, Shere Khan. Specially adapted from the beloved film, this musical includes all your favorite Disney tunes, like "The Bare Necessities,"� and "I Wan'na Be Like You."� With colorful characters and that toe-tapping jungle rhythm, Disney's THE JUNGLE BOOK KIDS is sure to be a crowd-pleaser for audiences of all ages.
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DAMN YANKEES
FINE ARTS ASSOCIATION
6/7-6/15/2013
Faust meets professional baseball in the Broadway classic DAMN YANKEES. Middle-aged baseball fanatic Joe Boyd trades his soul to the Devil, also known as Mr. Applegate, for a chance to lead his favorite team to victory in the pennant race against the New York Yankees. As young baseball sensation Joe Hardy, he transforms the hapless Washington Senators into a winning team, only to realize the true worth of the life he's left behind. Joe ultimately outsmarts Applegate, returns to his former self, and shepherds the Senators to the World Series.Light, fast-paced and devilishly clever, DAMN YANKEES is a home-run hit featuring all-American subject matter and an irreverent sense of humor. The perfect choice for a high school's spring musical or community theatre production, DAMN YANKEES is sure to please.
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SHREK
EAST SIDE PLAYERS INC
6/6-6/15/2013
SHREK THE MUSICAL, based on the Oscar® winningDreamWorks film that started it all, brings the hilarious story ofeveryone's favorite ogre to dazzling new life on the stage. Ina faraway kingdom turned upside down, things get ugly when an unseemlyogre "? not a handsome prince "? shows up to rescue a feisty princess.Throw in a donkey who won't shut up, a bad guy with a SHORT temper, acookie with an attitude and over a dozen other fairy tale misfits, andyou've got the kind of mess that calls for a real hero. Luckily,there's one on hand...and his name is Shrek. Full of all-new songs, great dancing and breathtaking scenery, SHREK THE MUSICAL is part romance, part twisted fairy tale and all irreverent fun for everyone!**AVAILABLE FOR LICENSES FOR PERFORMANCES BEGINNING JUNE 2013**
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ANNIE
FRENCH ART COLONY
6/8-6/15/2013
Leapin' Lizards! The popular comic strip heroine takes center stage in one of the world's best-loved musicals. With equal measures of pluck and positivity, little orphan ANNIE charms everyone's hearts, despite a next-to-nothing start in 1930s New York City. She is determined to find her parents, who abandoned her years ago on the doorstep of a New York City Orphanage run by the cruel, embittered Miss Hannigan.With the help of the other girls in the Orphanage, ANNIE escapes to the wondrous and magical world of NYC. In adventure after fun-filled adventure, ANNIE foils Miss Hannigan's evil machinations and befriends President Franklin Delano Roosevelt. She finds a new home and family in billionaire Oliver Warbucks, his personal secretary Grace Farrell, and a lovable mutt named Sandy. ANNIE is the perfect family-friendly musical, and an ideal show for a largely female cast. Middle Schools and elementary schools should also take notice of ANNIE JR - a special version of this title expressly designed for younger performers.
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RAGTIME VERSION 2
AKRON CIVIC THEATRE
6/14-6/15/2013
This version of RAGTIME, first presented on London's West End,features a smaller orchestration and a revised text/score, so the show can bedone with minimal visuals and scenic effects. This version is also ideal for concert presentations of the show. (The full, Broadway-sized orchestration isalso available for concert presentations.) Called by Time Magazine "A triumph for the stage," and bythe International Herald Tribune "the best musical in twenty years," this acclaimedmusical won 1998 Tony Awards for Best Score, Book and Orchestrations, and wonboth the Drama Desk and Outer Critics Circle Awards for Best Musical and BestScore. RAGTIME is not only a powerful portrait of life inturn-of-the-century America,but a relevant tale for today. Written by the award-winning composer/lyricistteam of Stephen Flaherty and Lynn Ahrens (ONCE ON THIS ISLAND, SEUSSICAL and LUCKY STIFF), noted playwright Terrence McNally, (K
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SCHOOLHOUSE ROCK LIVE!
CRESCENT PLAYERS
6/7-6/16/2013
A pop culture phenomenon comes to the musical stage!The Emmy Award-winning 1970's Saturday morning cartoon series that taught history, grammar, math, and more through clever, tuneful songs is not only making a small-screen comeback, it's lighting up stages everywhere -- from school multi-purpose rooms to university and regional theatres all around the country.SCHOOLHOUSE ROCK LIVE! follows Tom, a nerve-wracked school teacher who is nervous about his first day of teaching. He tries to relax by watching TV when various characters representing facets of his personality emerge from the set and show him how to win his students over with imagination and music, through such songs as "Just A Bill,"� "Lolly, Lolly, Lolly,"� and "Conjunction Junction."�With its minimal band, set, costume and flexible cast requirements, SCHOOLHOUSE ROCK LIVE! may be performed in virtually any space, bringing its infectious zest to a cross-generational audience.
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BUGSY MALONE JR
MEDINA SR HIGH SCHOOL
6/15-6/16/2013
The popular pint-sized, pin-striped classic leaps off the silver screen and onto the stage. Like the film, this wild and wacky musical includes a child's dream come true: a classic pie fight fought with "splurge blasters" which spew forth "silly string" instead of pies! With a catchy, swinging score by the composer of The Muppet Movie, BUGSY MALONE JR. includes a chorus which may be expanded to include as many performers as desired.BUGSY MALONE JR. is only available to license in the United States and Canada.
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FOREVER PLAID
STEUBENVILLE HIGH SCHOOL
6/15-6/16/2013
FOREVER PLAID is one of the most popular and successful musicals in recent memory. This deliciously goofy revue centers on four young, eager male singers killed in a car crash in the 1950's on the way to their first big concert, and now miraculously revived for the posthumous chance to fulfill their dreams and perform the show that never was. Singing in the closest of harmony, squabbling boyishly over the smallest intonations and executing their charmingly outlandish choreography with over-zealous precision, the "Plaids" are a guaranteed smash, with a program of beloved songs and delightful patter that keeps audiences rolling in the aisles when they're not humming along to some of the great nostalgic pop hits of the 1950's.
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A FUNNY THING...FORUM
ASHTABULA ARTS CENTER
6/7-6/22/2013
Broadway's greatest farce is light, fast-paced, witty, irreverent and one of the funniest musicals ever written. A FUNNY THING HAPPENED ON THE WAY TO THE FORUM takes comedy back to its roots, combining situations from time-tested, 2000 year old comedies of Roman playwright Plautus with the infectious energy of classic vaudeville.A FUNNY THING HAPPENED ON THE WAY TO THE FORUM is a non-stop laugh-fest in which Pseudolus, a crafty slave, struggles to win the hand of a beautiful but slow-witted courtesan named Philia, for his young master, Hero, in exchange for freedom. The plot twists and turns with cases of mistaken identity, slamming doors, and a showgirl or two.This unforgettable, hysterical musical allows a terrific ensemble of comedic actors to shine--"something for everyone, a comedy tonight!"
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THE DROWSY CHAPERONE
TOLEDO REPERTOIRE THEATRE
6/7-6/23/2013
A rare combination of unprecedented originality and blinding talent, THE DROWSY CHAPERONE boldly addresses a great unspoken desire in all of our hearts: to be entertained. If you've ever sat in a dark theatre and thought, "Dear Lord in heaven, please let it be good," this is the show for you!It all begins when a die-hard musical-theater fan plays his favorite cast album on his turntable, and the musical literally bursts to life in his living room, telling the rambunctious tale of a brazen Broadway starlet trying to find, and keep, her true love. Order your copy of "Showing Off with THE DROWSY CHAPERONE" - an informative DVD with advice and production tips from the show's authors and creative staff. Email licensing@mtishows.com to request your FREE copy!
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THE KING AND I
Crown Theater Productions
6/14-6/23/2013
The King and IEast versus West makes for a dramatic, richly textured and ultimately uplifting tale of enormous fascination. It is 1862 in Siam when an English widow, Anna Leonowens, and her young son arrive at the Royal Palace in Bangkok, having been summoned by the King to serve as tutor to his many children and wives. The King is largely considered to be a barbarian by those in the West, and he seeks Anna's assistance in changing his image, if not his ways. With both keeping a firm grip on their r
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DISNEY'S ALICE IN WONDERLAND JR
MANSFIELD PLAYHOUSE
6/14-6/23/2013
Join Alice's madcap adventures in Wonderland as she chases the White Rabbit, races the Dodo Bird, gets tied up with the Tweedles, raps with a bubble-blowing Caterpillar, and beats the Queen of Hearts at her own game! Roles are plentiful, including three Cheshire Cats and dozens of other wonderfully wacky characters. Disney's ALICE IN WONDERLAND JR. is a fast-paced stage adaptation of featuring updated dialogue and new arrangements of such classic Disney songs as "I'm Late," "The Un-birthday Song" and "Zip-A-Dee-Doo-Dah."
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SHREK
MERCURY SUMMER STOCK
6/14-6/29/2013
SHREK THE MUSICAL, based on the OscarÂ® winningDreamWorks film that started it all, brings the hilarious story ofeveryone's favorite ogre to dazzling new life on the stage. Ina faraway kingdom turned upside down, things get ugly when an unseemlyogre "" not a handsome prince "" shows up to rescue a feisty princess.Throw in a donkey who won't shut up, a bad guy with a SHORT temper, acookie with an attitude and over a dozen other fairy tale misfits, andyou've got the kind of mess that calls for a real hero. Luckily,there's one on hand...and his name is Shrek. Full of all-new songs, great dancing and breathtaking scenery, SHREK THE MUSICAL is part romance, part twisted fairy tale and all irreverent fun for everyone!**AVAILABLE FOR LICENSES FOR PERFORMANCES BEGINNING JUNE 2013**
Click Here for More Information
HOW TO SUCCEED IN BUSINESS...TRYING
RABBIT RUN THEATRE
6/13-6/30/2013
Power, sex, ambition, greed... it's just another day at the office. From the authors of GUYS AND DOLLS comes one of the most delightfully irreverent musicals of all time. A satire of big business and all it holds sacred, HOW TO SUCCEED IN BUSINESS WITHOUT REALLY TRYING follows the rise of J. Pierrepont Finch, who uses a little handbook called "How To Succeed In Business Without Really Trying" to climb the corporate ladder from lowly window washer to high-powered executive, tackling such familiar but potent dangers as the aggressively compliant "company man," the office party, backstabbing co-workers, caffeine addiction and, of course, true love.Winner of the 1962 Pulitzer Prize for Drama, HOW TO SUCCEED melds wit, comedy, and romance together to perfection. This show requires a large cast, featuring many roles for all types of performers.
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LES MISERABLES
SPOTLIGHT PLAYERS
6/14-6/30/2013
This international smash-hit may be the most popular musical in the world. In 19th century France, Jean Valjean is released from 19 years of unjust imprisonment, but finds nothing in store for him but mistrust and mistreatment. He breaks his parole in hopes of starting a new life, initiating a life-long struggle for redemption as he is relentlessly pursued by police inspector Javert, who refuses to believe Valjean can change his ways. Finally, during the Paris student uprising of 1832, Javert must confront his ideals after Valjean spares his life and saves that of the student revolutionary who has captured the heart of Valjean's adopted daughter. His world-view shattered, Javert commits suicide, and Valjean at last attains the peace he has sought for so long.Epic, grand and uplifting, LES MISÃ?RABLES packs an emotional wallop that has thrilled audiences all over the world. The sung-through pop opera is ideal for a cast of exceptional singers and overflows with melodies that are already standards. A spectacle on Broadway and in London, LES MISÃ?RABLES is equally effective with a minimal set; it is its powerful affirmation of the human spirit that has made LES MISÃ?RABLES a popular masterpiece.
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THE MUSIC MAN
WEATHERVANE COMMUNITY PLAYHOUSE
6/6-6/30/2013
An affectionate paean to Smalltown, U.S.A. of a bygone era, Meredith Willson's THE MUSIC MAN follows fast-talking traveling salesman Harold Hill as he cons the people of River City, Iowa into buying instruments and uniforms for a boys' band he vows to organize - this despite the fact he doesn't know a trombone from a treble clef. His plans to skip town with the cash are foiled when he falls for Marian the librarian, who transforms him into a respectable citizen by curtain's fall. Perfect for professional theatres, community groups, summer stock and schools alike, this award-winning, critically acclaimed Broadway classic is an all-American institution, thanks to is quirky characters, charmingly predictable dramatic situations, and one-of-a-kind, nostalgic score of rousing marches, barbershop quartets and sentimental ballads which have become popular standards. The cast features a soaring soprano ingenue, parts for young performers and children, and one of the musical theatre's treasures, a tour de force leading role for a charismatic actor who doesn't need to be a trained singer. By turns wicked, funny, warm, romantic and touching, THE MUSIC MAN is family entertainment at its best.
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GODSPELL
STAGE LEFT PLAYERS
6/14-6/30/2013
Conceived and originally directed by John Michael Tebelak, with music and new lyrics by Stephen Schwartz, GODSPELL is one of the biggest off-Broadway and Broadway successes of all time.Based on the Gospel According to St. Matthew, and featuring a sparkling score by Stephen Schwartz, GODSPELL boasts a string of well-loved songs, led by the international hit, "Day By Day." As the cast performs "Prepare Ye The Way Of The Lord," "Learn Your Lessons Well," "All For The Best," "All Good Gifts," "Turn Back, O Man" and "By My Side," the parables of Jesus Christ come humanly and hearteningly to life.Drawing from various theatrical traditions, such as clowning, pantomime, charades, acrobatics and vaudeville, GODSPELL is a groundbreaking and unique reflection on the life of Jesus, with a message of kindness, tolerance and love.GODSPELL RETURNSVisit the official Godpell on Broadway site for tickets and more information on this new production.
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THE SOUND OF MUSIC
La Comedia Dinner Theatre
5/2-6/30/2013
The final collaboration between Rodgers & Hammerstein was destined to become the world's most beloved musical. When a postulant proves too high-spirited for the religious life, she is dispatched to serve as governess for the seven children of a widowed naval Captain. Her growing rapport with the youngsters, coupled with her generosity of spirit, gradually captures the heart of the stern Captain, and they marry. Upon returning from their honeymoon they discover that Austria has been invaded by the Nazis, who demand the Captain's immediate service in their navy. The family's narrow escape over the mountains to Switzerland on the eve of World War II provides one of the most thrilling and inspirational finales ever presented in the theatre. The motion picture version remains the most popular movie musical of all time.Music by Rodgers, Richard; Lyrics by Oscar Hammerstein II; Book by Howard Lindsay & Russel Crouse; Suggested by `The Trapp Family Singers` by Maria Augusta Trapp
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THE KING AND I
Ohio Light Opera
6/15-8/8/2013
G2K THE KING AND IThe 'G2K' Getting To Know Series: Uniquely adapted musicals specifically for youth performers. East versus West makes for a dramatic, richly textured and ultimately uplifting tale of enormous fascination. It is 1862 in Siam when an English widow, Anna Leonowens, and her young son arrive at the Royal Palace in Bangkok, having been summoned by the King to serve as tutor to his many children and wives. The King is largely considered to be a barbarian by those in the West
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SOUTH PACIFIC
Porthouse Theatre-Kent State University
6/13-8/10/2013
South PacificSet in an island paradise during World War II, two parallel love stories are threatened by the dangers of prejudice and war. Nellie, a spunky nurse from Arkansas, falls in love with a mature French planter, Emile. Nellie learns that the mother of his children was an island native and, unable to turn her back on the prejudices with which she was raised, refuses Emile's proposal of marriage. Meanwhile, the strapping Lt. Joe Cable denies himself the fulfillment of a future with an innocen
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Ensemble Theatre Announces ALL YOU NEED IS LOVE Season

Fri, 07 Jun 2013 15:50:56 PST

Ensemble Theatre announces its 34th consecutive season. "ALL YOU NEED IS LOVE". This season's selection of plays are all in one way or another, some kind of love story.

Ensemble embarks on its third season in our Coventry home with ANIMALS OUT OF PAPER, by Cleveland's own Rajiv Joseph. When a world-renowned origami artist opens her studio to a teenage prodigy and his school teacher, she discovers that life and love can't be arranged neatly in this drama about finding the perfect fold.- Directed by Ensemble Theatre's Artistic Director Celeste Cosentino,Animals Out of Paper will open Friday, September 27th and run through Sunday, October 20th .

"Mr. Joseph's observant, pitch-perfect script...is really quite ambitious, dealing ruthlessly...with the fragility of happiness, the tragedy of impulsiveness and the tenuousness of hope." (-NY Times).

Stay tuned for events surrounding this production, in collaboration with the Cleveland Museum of Art and other arts organizations as well as the playwright himself! Ensemble has previously produced Rajiv's Huck and Holden and Gruesome Playground Injuries. His film Draft Day is currently filming in Cleveland and stars Kevin Costner, Jennifer Garner, Frank Langella, Dennis Leary, and Sam Elliot among many others!

Following this artful season opener, Ensemble will welcome a new director into the "fold". Martin Friedman, Lakeland Community College theater instructor, who recently directed the critically acclaimed productions ofProof and Next to Normal, will take on Craig Lucas' romantic comedy PRELUDE TO A KISS. At Peter and Rita's wedding, a mysterious old man insists on kissing the bride..... Opening FridayNovember 21st, this production will run through Sunday December 15th.

PRELUDE TO A KISS is Lucas at his lightest and brightest. A rare combination of laughter, romance and throat-tightening substance." (-CurtainUp.)

Ensemble will bring in the new year in the spirit of collaboration and love, with "KNOCK ME A KISS", by Charles Smith. Mr. Smith is the Head of the MFA Playwriting program at Ohio University and his Free Man of Color andThe Gospel According to James have also been produced by Ensemble. Winner of 9 2011 AUDELCO Awards, "Knock Me a Kiss" is a fictional account inspired by the actual events surrounding the 1928 marriage of W.E.B. Du Bois's daughter Yolande to one of Harlem's great poets, Countee Cullen. The marriage marked the height of the Harlem Renaissance and was viewed as the perfect union of Negro talent and beauty. This production will open Friday January 31st and run through SundayFebruary 23rd. Directed by Oberlin Colleges' Caroline Jackson Smith (currently the Acting Chair for the African American Studies Department as well as an Associate Professor of Theater) this production will provide a unique collaboration with artists from Oberlin, Ohio University and Ensemble Theatre.

"In one blistering scene after another, with dialogue that is alternately highly poetic, down-and-dirty, eerily disturbing and fiercely authoritarian, Smith exposes the lies and the blazing truths that animate his characters." (-Chicago Sun Times)

Ensemble's 3rd annual Colombi New Plays Festival returns to the rotating repertory format throughout the month of March. This year's festival features world premiere plays developed in Ensemble's Stage-Wright's Workshop by Cleveland playwrights Cynthia Dettelbach, Barbara Harkness, Jean Cummins as well as many more readings, workshops and seminars featuring the work of Stage-Wright's writers. Performance dates and titles will be announced soon. Support Cleveland talent and buy a VIP pass!

Ensemble will once again close the season with an American Classic. Before "The Great Gatsby" there was Eugene O'Neill's first full length play and 1920 Pulitzer Prize winning BEYOND THE HORIZON. Set in the 1920s, "Beyond the Horizon" explores what happens when two brothers love the same woman and the compromises each will make to have her. Opening Friday April 18th and running through Sunday May 11th, Ensemble Artistic Director Celeste Cosentino, brings a contemporary sensibility to archetypal and universal themes promising a unique and refreshing directorial take on this classic.

"Beyond the Horizon offers us the tragedy of a beautiful soul buffeted by fate, losing everything and still remaining compassionate"(-Back Stage NYC)

All productions perform Fridays and Saturdays at 8pm and Sundays at 2pm unless otherwise stated. The Colombi New Plays Festival Plays will include Thursday evening performances at 8pm.

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!

Cathy & Marcy Perform at Beck Center Tonight

Fri, 07 Jun 2013 00:30:00 PST

Beck Center for the Arts presents a weekend of music, fun and learning with two-time Grammy© Award-winning duo,Cathy Fink and Marcy Marxer, tonight, June 7 and tomorrow, the 8th, 2013. A live concert for children and families takes place 7 p.m. Friday, June 7 in the Music-Armory Building at Beck Center. This is a free event, but space is limited and registration is required. To register, please call Brittany Lesch at 216.521.2540, ext. 34 or email blesch@beckcenter.org. This free concert is made possible through the generous support of the PNC Foundation's Grow Up Great initiative. To learn more, visit pncgrowupgreat.com.

An entertaining and engaging interactive show, Cathy and Marcy perform on a variety of instruments including acoustic and electric guitars, banjos, mandolin, ukulele, percussion, and inspiring homemade instruments (oatmeal box banjo, cigar box electric guitar). The duo brings music to life in a memorable and meaningful way. Drawing on their repertoire of over 250 songs and 25+ years of performing, Cathy and Marcy's shows bring families together and allow children to have fun and learn at the same time.

Cathy Fink and Marcy Marxer are singers, songwriters, educators, and record producers with a repertoire of traditional and contemporary folk, old-time country and swing music. Their superb harmonies are backed by instrumental virtuosity on the acoustic and electric guitar, five-string banjo, mandolin, cello banjo, ukulele, percussion and many other instruments. They engage and entertain audiences of all ages, with a broad following in family music and in American Roots styles. With a witty stage presence and warm audience rapport, this well loved music duo is a hit with children and adults. Learn more at cathymarcy.com.

On Saturday, June 8, Beck Center's Creative Arts Therapies Department hosts "Music in Early Childhood Education: Sing & Play in a Whole New Way," a professional development day for preschool educators from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. in the Music-Armory Building at Beck Center. The day's activities begin with a continental breakfast followed by a keynote address entitled "Positively Brainy Ideas to Create a Happier You In and Out of the Classroom" presented by Patrice Koerper, MSM, RPCV, a Certified Life Coach and Creative Consultant. Cathy and Marcy then present "Celebrating Diversity & Self-Esteem: Discovery through Music, Stories & Art," a two-hour music session. The cost is $15 per person. Participants may register online at beckcenter.org. The registration deadline for this continuing education course is Saturday, June 1, 2013. This is a Step Up To Quality approved training session presented in collaboration with Lakewood Child Care Center.

Patrice Koerper, MSM, RPCV, is a Certified Life Coach and Creative Consultant, with a B.A. in Psychology and Masters in the Science of Management. In her keynote address, Koerper shares science-based, life-enhancing, fun tips to keep educators feeling refreshed and motivated. Find out why your brain is your best friend and how to use it to create your best life. For more information, please visit Koerper's website at wishfulthinkingworks.com.

Beck Center for the Arts is located at 17801 Detroit Avenue in Lakewood, just minutes from downtown Cleveland. Free onsite parking is available.