Review-Cabaret

So, I managed to get to a performance of Cabaret at Spotlighters recently. I will say this much, most of the reviews I had read previously to attending were mixed, mainly due to the physical limitations at Spotlighters. Coming in, I didn't really know what to expect, and I left feeling the same way. In some ways, the fact that Spotlighters is a very small space located under a hotel in downtown Baltimore could have been a great place to stage this show. I was proven wrong.

First off, it might just be my own preference, but performers roaming around before the show actually begins has gotten quite tired, no? I feel like any show that has been attempting to look "edgy" or "different" immediately means breaking the fourth wall. When I enter the theatre, I want time to pick up my ticket, possibly grab a drink, take my seat and read through the program. I do not need to be accosted by 1930's club workers, thank you very much. It isn't just this production, but I've seen the same thing happen with productions of Sweeney Todd and RENT. It is wonderful that directors break down the fourth wall and add something new to a production, but it has been done a million times over at this point. Granted, Spotlighters is very cramped and also in the round, but why not just keep the actors backstage until showtime?

Cabaret is by far one of my favorite musicals, it is set in Nazi Germany, and deals with American writer Cliff Bradshaw. He travels to Berlin and meets Sally Bowles, the star performer in the Kit Kat Club Revue. They have a sordid affair, which leaves Cliff reeling at the end of the show. I'd write more of a synopsis, but if you don't know "Cabaret" then you should be ashamed. It is a beautiful and complex piece.

The only standout performance is delivered by one Tim Elliot. While, in recent years, the Emcee is generally a skinny, over the top ladyboy, Mr.Elliot stands out. He delivers a knockout performance that balances the commanding power of the character, as well as his flamboyance and few rather serious bits. Congrats to Tim in a production that was, for the most part, disappointing.

I had an unfortunate seat located near one of the four vertical support beams that surrounds the stage, which left me annoyed having to strain my neck to see what was happening. The choreography was different, sometimes it worked, sometimes it didn't. There is a reason Bob Fosse was hired in the first place for this show...to create movement for these nightclub performerrs that is sleazy and not overdanced. Melissa McGinley does a good job, but overdoes it at times, and seeing as some of the ensemble are not meant to be dancers, the choreo sometimes falls short.

For the most part, the Kit Kat Club dancers are a rag-tag group. It looks more to me like the audition turnout didn't have much to choose from male wise, and they did what they could to fill in the cast. The women of the "Klub" manage to get things right, having stronger dance skills and genereally, better characterization. The men, though trying, just look out of place most of the time.

Aaron Dalton and Lynn McCormick as Cliff and Sally, don't quite have a hold of their characters. The fact that both never seem to delve into the twisted nature of these people leads me to think that direction time was spent more on trying to conquer the physical limitations of the theatre rather than exploring characters. Towards the end of the show, we get a slight glimpse of how great the performances could have been, but it might be due to the extremity of the script. Suzanne Young and Jim Hart as Schneider and Schultz give touching performances. They have settled into their characters quite nicely, especially when there is a pineapple involved.

Michael Tan serves as musical director. The cast sounds decent, but the 3 piece put doesn't quite serve the needs of the score, and there is a general disconnect between the music and the cast, which will rip an audience member out of willing suspension of disbelief faster than one can say "Wilkommen".

Overall, this production relies too much on stock direction choices which have been made to try and fit the difficult space of the theatre. It wanted to be fantastic, but leaves one feeling generally confused by the time it is over. Also, because of the incessant pre-show interaction with the audience in such a small space (I'm aware that the emcee addresses the audience...once the show has b.e.g.u.n.) seeing the performers after the show in street clothes is awkward. I give it a C-, and if it weren't for Tim Elliot's insanely well done performance, I'd say skip this production. It is a FAR cry from Todd Starkey's brilliant mounting of the show for Phoenix Festival Theatre a few years back.

Opening Tonight!

With the fall comes two things: colorful trees that make fore some epic photographs, and tons and tons of local theatre. If you are in theatre, you have probably been inundated with more Facebook invites for your friends and family's shows that you can actually keep track of, so I will try to help. I know of only a few shows that open today, but lots open sometime in the coming weeks...so here we are:

OPENING TONIGHT

Phoenix Festival Theatre's "Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street"
September 10-19
Fridays and Saturdays at 8 pm, Sundays at 3pm
Tickets $9-18
Box Office 443 412 2211
PFT is Located in the Chesapeake building at Harford Community College

Spotlighter's "Cabaret"
September 10-October 10
Thursdays-Saturdays at 8pm, Sundays at 2pm
Tickets $16-20
Box Office (at the door or www.spotlighters.org)
Spotlighers is Located in Baltimore on St.Paul Street

Maryland Ensemble Theatre's "The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee"
September 10- October 9
Thursdays, Fridays,Saturdays at 8pm, Sundays at 2pm
Tickets $16-26
MET is Located at 31 W. Patrick St in Baltimore.

Alright everyone! Break legs and sing your faces off!
I know I'll be at Sweeney either tonight or tomorrow and I plan on attending Cabaret on Sunday!

Bye!

Hiatus/Reviews

Welcome back, all who read this blog. All meaning all four of you.

I'm back from my hiatus from theatre and showtunes, and I'm looking forward to a fall season full of lots of theatre and lots of belting, because lets face it...if you're not beting, you're not trying. Anyways, enough with me falling off the face of the earth without telling you, so let us move on.

Review wise, I caught Teatro 101's outstanding production of "Sideshow" which took place at the Mobtown Theatre in Baltimore. Artistic Director David Gregory has been garnering rave reviews for his work with his new theatre company, so I was very excited to see what the production had in store, and I will start with this...they need a better space. The work being done there is very high-caliber and really deserves a bigger space that can fit more people and give them more room to create, because, after seeing some terrible regional theater in the past few years, Teatro 101 is a breath of fresh air. The creative team work so well to bring this show to life, and this piece is notoriously difficult to do well. The company is fresh and exciting, and handled the conceptual challenge of this show with style. Upon entering, the audience is watching an old black and white film about a freak show, which sets an odd and almost unsettling mood that is kept until curtain call.

Mr.Gregory has assembled and directed a great cast. His direction is simple and effective, and doesn't rely on campy stereotypes to get the point across. It is clear that he holds his audience accountable to expect more from local theatre than some other companies do. Ryan Michael Haase, who is also in the cast as The Geek, created a brilliant set. The entire concept of his design was just so well thought out and well executed, despite the fact that it was generally sparse. The show is set in a run-down traveling freak show, and that is exactly what he created. The stage is nearly bare, accented with a few boxes and staircases. Various strung lights and ropes create a controlled chaos that I really enjoyed. Props to him for fantastic design. Julia M. Smith created an opening video which was projected during the first number of the show, and her creative use of stop motion animation gave the production a punch of something unexpected, and they handled the "transformation" of the freaks in a way that I've never seen before.

As for the cast, Amanda Rife and Shelly Work as Violet and Daisy Hilton, do a great job. Their voices blend well, and despite the physical challenge of staying "attached at the hip" they manage to create entirely separate characters, which is crucial with those roles. I will say that age wise, they were mismatched, but it is merely a surface observation that one quickly forgets. For such demanding roles, these two divas handle them wonderfully. Chris Rudy is Buddy, one of the roles that I can't say I'm very fond of. M.r Rudy has a great pop tenor voice, which is put on great display throughout the production, but some of his acting choices felt slightly stale at times. Perhaps it was a character choice that I never fully absorbed, but overall, he was enjoyable. The evening's real scene stealer is Kevin McAllister as Jake. If anything, it was worth seeing the show solely for his "You Should be Loved" in Act 2. The man can sing, and on top of that, he knows how to act a song. The audience was eerily still when he sang. He has a commanding presence that cannot be ignored, and he was the evening's stand out performance.

The ensemble fills out the show nicely. Their costumes were a little wonky, but they more than make up for it with their powerful sound and characters. I've seen Side Show done with a rather large ensemble, and I like that the ensemble was small. Granted, there wasn't any space for one more person on the stage, but they do a great job. I was really loving the vocals during "Tunnel of Love", especially with a special light trick that was used to set the mood.
Overall, the show gets an A++ from me. Great job, freaks!

OKAY. I know...it has been too long since I've written a review so that sucked, but deal with it. They were amazing, and I promise to post their next review ON opening night. Kudos to them!

Review-Curtains

Again with the lateness. Sorry!

So, I missed opening night of Curtains, but I did get to catch the Saturday night performance, which was great! There was an unexpected Act 2 visit from a bat that added to the somewhat creepiness of the Act 2 opener. Ironic: yes. Terrifying because there was a giant bat on the loose: also yes.

I digress.

Curtains is by far the best production I have seen this summer. Hands down. It puts Cockpit's earlier summer musical, Singin in the Rain, to shame. The cast is spot on at all times, the costumes are flashy, the sets are amazing (depsite one rickety staircase) and the show is just a hit, plain and simple. This, however, wouldn't be a review unless I go into crazy detail, so we shall start now.

One, Tom Wyatt knows how to put on a show. Tom directed/choreographed this production SO well. The book itself is a little weird at times, and some of the scenes drag, but that is the fault of the writer, not the director. The choreography is quick and impressive, especially when danced by the entire cast. He had a massive amount of things to do with this show. The script itself calls for tons of scenery, drops, props and special effects and Mr.Wyatt seamlessly works them all into this finished product. Bravo!

Two, THE COSTUMES! Wow. First off, I give the ensemble of this show a ton of credit. I feel like every time they reappear on stage, they are in new costumes, ranging from rehearsal clothes, to wild western outfits, ballgowns, can can dresses and more wigs than you can shake a stick at. Though shaking a stick at a wig will make you look like a crazy person. My only qualm here is James Fasching's billing as the Costume Designer. I've seen his work in the past, and it has never been this impressive. This leads me to believe that most of the costumes were pulled from stock and that some of the fancier pieces (most of the gowns and fancy dresses for the girls) were rented. Maybe a title like "Costume Coordinator" would have been more fitting. Not to say he didn't design some of the pieces at one time or another, but these were re-used or rented. I may be wrong, but that is how I saw it.

Also, I must take time to give a thumbs up to Stage Manager Margie Lake for what I'm sure is an intense show to call.

Three, the cast. Outstanding to say the least. Every character was perfectly cast and each actor plays with amazing comedic timing and wit. The ensemble of the show isn't just an ensemble, and they are working their butts off. With a ton of scenes and dance work being done, they impress immensely.

Chuck Graham makes for a lovable Frank Cioffi, and has the audience in the palm of his hand from his first scene. He plays with a "good guy" nature and you really can't help but like him. Plain and simple, he was great!

Dori Watson is hysterical in her short-lived time on stage as the terrible Jessica Cranshaw. Watch for her in the kickline, she can't be missed.

Tom Burns works his small comedic bits FANTASTICALLY and stands out as an audience favorite. I couldn't help but watch him when he is on stage. He is a funny man, and he knows how to make you laugh.

Becca Vourvoulas makes a great Bambi, with a killer voice and even better dance moves. Props to her for pulling off a fantastic dance in an over-the-top beaded indian getup.

John Desmone steals almost every scene he is in as director Christopher Belling. He serves up amazing one liners with the pro comedic timing. Mr.Desmone never disappoints, but he is really put to good use in the production.

Amy Pierson is lovably ditzy as ingenue Niki Harris, whom Cioffi is infatuated with. Her beautiful voice and simple but effective acting choices make her time on stage worth watching. Spoiler alert: There was something terribly disturbing about seeing her with a gun in her hand. Disturbing yet laughable.

Of course, my standout. I always have at least one. Liz Boyer Hunnicutt OWNS the show as producer Carmen Bernstein. She is witty, sassy and she knows how to use it. She has a powerhouse voice, as anyone who has seen her perform knows, and frequently had the audience reacting most to her on stage. She is one of my favorite local actresses, and should NOT be missed in this role. She really knocks it out of the park (or theatre) in "Show People" and "It's a Business". Bravo, Bravo, Bravo!

One of my few complaints about the show were music related. At times, there were major tempo problems, which one reviewer blamed on the ensemble. To him I say: Really dude? The ensemble of this show is the hardest working I've seen in a while. They've been rehearsing for months and know the score and choreography inside and out. Any tempo problems fall on the Music Director and pit. The musicians follow the actors, and should be expected to keep up, which at times, they can't. Not to say that they do a bad job, but they need to learn how to find a tempo, and stay there. Actors on stage have enough to worry about.

So, as I warned, I went into detail. But unto you I say this: Curtains and Cockpit is a huge smash. Get your tickets for the last two weekends NOW! If you were impressed by Singin' in the Rain, you need to see the real "Show People" in Curtains. Cockpit has had an amazing season, with a killer closing show (pardon the pun. Read the synopsis from the Curtains entry if you want to know what I'm talking about). Acting, Singing, Dancing and all while trying to escape someone with a death wish for their show. No need for rain on stage when you have real live bats and an epic cast!

A plus plus plus!

Review- 13 at Tidewater Players

Ok...I am fully aware of how late this review is. Oh well. Tidewater Players in Havre de Grace has 3 summer camps every year for kids and teens that last for 2 weeks each, and at the end, they put on a show. Seems normal enough for a theater-related summer camp right? Not quite. Instead of doing boring, fairytale-esque shows that parents sit through solely because they have to, Tidewater puts on full productions, which gives these kids a chance to really "put on a show". To think that most shows rehearse for 6-8 weeks before opening, it is amazing that these camps essentially get 10 days to learn an entire production and put it up for an audience.

I attended one of the 5 performances that Tidewater Teens put on. This year, they did Jason Robert Brown's "13" about a boy trying to plan the perfect Bar Mitzvah, only to find out that his mother is relocating to the middle of nowhere, when he was used to the crazy streets of Manhattan. The show itself deals with the general pressures of being a teen in America, but JRB really puts his spin on it with creative songs and clever lyrics, and turns it into a coming of age story that will entertain adults as much as their teen counterparts. The show ran for a short period on Broadway, but was really built for community theatres and regional theatres as a chance for young actors to get a shot at playing real roles in a show. Tidewater pulls it off impressively, and I enjoyed myself, for the most part.

Now, I will say that the 2 things I didn't enjoy were Tidewater's billing of the show as "The Northeast Maryland Premiere of 13". I've noticed that the theatre itself has what seems like a slight obsession with being the "first" to do things. Unfortunately, Red Branch Theatre Company of Columbia, MD opened and closed the show before Tidewater did. Just because you do it first, doesn't mean you do it best. Let your work speak for itself, I say. Northeastern MD premiere or not, 13 was a hit. But it wasn't the fact that they were the area premiere that did it. Secondly, the H.E.A.T. Oh. My. Gosh. It was literally a sauna in there, and I'm not kidding in the least. I looked like I'd just run a 5K race by the time I left, and all I'd been doing was sitting and fanning myself as much as I could with my program. I know Tidewater has been having this issue for a while, but since the space is owned by the city, I think they need to force the mayor of HdG to hold a few board meetings in there and then try to tell them that they don't need a new air conditioning unit. I give SO much credit to the cast and creative team for putting up with that heat for 2 weeks straight. I'm honestly a little surprised that no actors, directors, stage managers, or audience members didn't faint. It was out of control, and that theatre deserves better, if you ask me. It will be hard to draw people in when there is a potential to have a heat stroke.

Anyways, on to the real review. I will say that 13 was literally one of the best shows that I have seen at Tidewater in a while. I loved "Spelling Bee" as well, but the fact that this awesome musical featured a cast of all teenagers, I was astounded. The sets were simple and used flats to create different classrooms, bedrooms and even a movie theatre setting. It was nice to not be distracted by them. Being that Tidewater is so small, the lights can't really be commented on, since there aren't many to begin with. Direction/ Choreography wise, Richard Mahoney does a great job. It seems like he pushed these young actors to explore these characters, which have more depth than the average coming of age story characters do. He used some of my favorite dance moves from the Broadway production, while still putting his own spin on things, and using the rather large cast (there were 13 kids in the Broadway show, 30 in this production) and using the space very well. The small pit was perfect for the score, with Lisa Wood rocking out on drums and giving the show a great rock feel.

As always, I have standouts from this production. Conor DeVoe, whom I loved in PFT's High School Musical, gets a star turn as Evan Goldman, the lead of the show. First off, DeVoe should be commended because it seems like he never leaves the stage during the show, and in that heat, that is a feat in and of itself. He does a superb job. He sings, acts and dances the part amazingly, and just gets better as the show goes on. He was, by far, the most impressive and talented member of the cast, and carries the show beautifully. I'm not sure what the producers of the Broadway show were doing while casting, because I enjoyed DeVoe here more than I enjoyed the rather nasaly singing of the original Evan on Broadway. His voice sounds awesome, and he never falters during the show, and I saw it at night, after a matinee earlier in the day. Conor has a very bright future ahead of him, so keep your eye out for him. Big things have got to be headed his way.

Elise Starkey tackles the role of Patrice, Evan's best friend and potential girlfriend, wonderfully. She acts with a true passion and is believable and doesn't falter. For someone so young, she was giving me some incredible character choices. She has a beautiful voice, albeit not one fully suited for Patrice's INSANE vocal notes. I don't think any transitions into her head voice were a bad choice on her part, more a bad choice on the Music Director's part for not finding suitable alternatives for her. I hate when an actor or actress is made to look bad because they aren't given alternates to notes that won't come out right. Elise sounded amazing either way.

Gannon Webb plays Archie, Evan's other best friend, who walks with canes, due to his physical disability, and Gannon plays him very well. He nails the deadpan comedic bits of the role, and still has the audience feeling for him in his more tender moments.

Other cast standouts included Kelly Vaughn as Lucy, the central villain of the plot. She has a surprisingly strong voice and sounds incredible in her songs and acts the role PERFECTLY. I loved every moment of her on stage, and can't wait to see where she goes next. She was the real hidden gem of the cast. Eddie and Malcolm are played by Josh Starkey and Jordan Hoffman, and were audience favorites and played the dim witted sidekicks to Joe Hetterly's Brett very well. Stephanie Meadowcroft is lovely as the pretty yet not-so-bright Kendra, and sounds beautiful in her vocal pieces.

I will say that, as the show was written for 13 actors, the addition of the ensemble was inevitable once community theatres could perform it, though I feel bad for them being underused most of the time. They are transitioned well into the scenes and songs that they were a part of, though. As always, with any production, there were the ones who constantly pulled focus for one reason or another, but that is expected. The only numbers that I wasn;t a fan of were "Being a Geek" which was cut from the Broadway production for obvious reasons, though DeVoe does with it what he could and "Bad, Bad News" which was not as effective as I've seen it done before and filled with some wonky high notes.

All in all, the production was fantastic, even though the heat was near unbearable and I give it an A! Congrats to all who worked on the show! I loved it!

Curtains!

Happy Opening to Curtains! I'll be attending tonight and posting my review tomorrow. IF you know anything about the show, it is ironic to be a "theatre critic" writing a review about it, due to the plot. Either way, I heard GREAT things about the show from last night, so I'm excited to see it! Break a leg everyone!

Show Announcement: Curtains!

Cockpit in Court Summer Theatre Presents:



CURTAINS
THE MUSICAL COMEDY WHODUNIT

Directed and Choreographed by Tom Wyatt

Show Times:
July 23, 24, 30, 31, August 5, 6, 7 at 8 pm
July 25, August 1, 8 at 3 pm

Tickets are priced from $12-18
Can be purchased at the door or online:
https://www.ticketreturn.com/prod2/team.asp?SponsorID=2025

There is a preview scheduled for tomorrow night, but it has already sold out, so I'd suggest buying tickets in advance.
This is sure to be an amazing show. From what I've heard, the cast is full of some of the best the area has to offer, and I know that Mr.Wyatt knows how to put on a show! Expect a review during the first weekend, most likely after opening night.
I've posted a short synopsis below. A lot of people don't know much about this show, but I caught it on Broadway, and it is HYSTERICAL! The script is witty and quick, the music is good, old-fashioned camp and the dancing always impresses!

Curtains unfolds backstage at Boston's Colonial Theatre in 1959, where a new musical could be a Broadway smash, were it not for the presence of its talent-free leading lady. When the hapless star dies on opening night during her curtain call, Lieutenant Frank Cioffi arrives on the scene to conduct an investigation. But the lure of the theatre proves irresistible and after an unexpected romance blooms for the stage-struck detective, he finds himself just as drawn toward making the show a hit, as he is in solving the murder.
The musical features music by John Kander and lyrics by Fred Ebb.

Tidewater presents: 13

I am happy to announce Tidewater Players' Production of Jason Robert Brown's "13"!! They were kind enough to send this press release to me, and after some digging around, I have learned that one of my favorites from PFT's "High School Musical", Conor DeVoe, will be starring in this production as Evan Goldman. Unfortunately, I won't be there to write a review, and even though it only runs for one weekend, I'd still like it to be reviewed. So, if any of you readers will be there, shoot me an e-mail and let me know, and maybe one of you could write the show up for me! Get out to see this FANTASTIC show! I know the Tidewater Teens will do the show justice.




Music & Lyrics by Jason Robert Brown
Book by Dan Elish & Robert Horn

Directed & Choreographed by Dickie Mahoney
Musical Direction by Marji Eldreth

5 Performances Only

Friday July 16th @ 8:00pm
Saturday July 17th @ 2:00pm and 8:00pm
Sunday July 18th @ 2:00pm and 8:00pm

Tickets
$10.00 Adults
$5.00 Children 12 and under
(plus online fees)

To purchase tickets and reserve your seats, go to
www.tidewaterplayers.com
and click the link for Seat Yourself Online Ticketing

Tidewater Players
The Community Theatre of Havre de Grace
121 N. Union Ave. 2nd Floor, Havre de Grace, MD
410-939-5046

Teatro101 presents: Side Show

Teatro101 is a new theatre company based out of Baltimore, that, to this point, has gained a ton of great reviews for their work. I have yet to catch one of their shows, but I'm excited for this one! I LOVE this show, and I'll try to make it to opening weekend!

SIDE SHOW AUGUST 12 THROUGH SEPTEMBER 4
Music by Henry Krieger
Book and Lyrics by Bill Russell

Based on the true story of Siamese twins Violet
and Daisy Hilton who became stars during the depression era of the 1930s, Side Show is a
moving portrait of two women joined at the hip whose extraordinary bondage brings them fame but denies them love. The original Broadway production, featuring Alice Ripley and Emily Skinner, was nominated for four Tony Awards and includes now Broadway classics like "I Will Never Leave You", "Who Will Love Me As I Am", and "You Should Be Loved".

A fresh concept, cast of 18, an intimate 60-seat theatre, and live orchestra promise to bring you the FREAK SHOW of the summer.

Limited seating. All tickets $20 General Admission. Available tickets sold at the door –CASH ONLY. NO CREDIT CARDS AT THE DOOR.

Only 12 Performances, so book early.
Thursday, August 12 at 8pm
Friday, August 13 at 8pm
Saturday, August 14 at 8pm
Sunday, August 15 at 3pm (The Only Exclusive Matinee Time)
Friday, August 20 at 8pm
Saturday, August 21 at 8pm
Sunday, August 22 at 7pm
Friday, August 27 at 8pm
Saturday, August 28 at 8pm
Sunday, August 29 at 7pm
Friday, September 3 at 8pm
Saturday, September 4 at 8pm

You can buy tickets through their website, which will likely be your best option.

10 days

Sorry! I have been having my butt kicked my work and trying to keep up with life!

Anyways, I have literally no news to post here. I haven't gotten around to doing any reviews, and my e-mail is as empty as the Weissler's heads when they are trying to stunt cast Chicago.

So PLEASE send me anything you've got! Season press releases, show info and of course, voracious gossip, because we all know we love that.

I will say unto all of you, if you haven't gone to see Singin' in the Rain at Cockpit, you should. The few emails I've gotten have been about that show, and mainly how, if anything, the price of admission is worth it for the rain effect and Elisa Dugan!

Until next, time...
EMAIL ME.


mdtheatrereviews@yahoo.com

Review- Singin' in the Rain at Cockpit

Hola!

So I went to see "Singin" at Cockpit! Yeah musicals!

Now, let me preface this by saying that I have an intense love for this musical, both on the stage and on the screen, so I had very high expectations for the show, which were met amazingly with some portions and fell short with other portions.

First, I will say that Joseph Murphy does a commendable job. The role of Don Lockwood takes a serious triple threat to pull it off, and Joseph doesn't disappoint. Is he Gene Kelly? No. In this case, he plays the role the way he sees fit. He is doing some heavy-duty dancing and singing on that stage, and while he isn't, he is probably rushing through a quick change to come on stage and do another insane number! The shows title number is done a solid by Joseph. The impressive set complete with a massive on-stage rainstorm becomes a tap dance playground to remarkable effect. Bravo, Mr. Murphy! You have done Mr.Kelly proud!

James Biernatowski tackles the role of Cosmo Brown with great enthusiasm and pulls off the role nicely. I will say that, at times, the acting was a little over-the-top. I'm aware that Cosmo is crazy in his own right as a role, but I think James is going with a more flamboyant and theatrical version of the character as opposed to a traditional take on the role. At the same time, I must applaud his character choices in making it his own. His signature number, "Make em laugh" does just that, even though a particular sight gag involving a brick wall was sort of seen coming from a mile away, but I loved it nonetheless! He looks like he might pass out from exhaustion by the end of the number, but comedy is tough, and he is giving it his all!

Jessica Schaub Phillips plays Kathy Seldon very well. She sings the part beautifully and is a strong tapper, easily keeping up with the boys in "Good Mornin." I will say, though, that I really disliked her wig. She is a beautiful girl (no pun intended) and the wig really ages her. Either way, she gives a stellar performance all around that will make you enjoy her as much as I did.

On to my obligatory favorite. You knew it was coming. Ms. Elisa Dugan as Lina Lamont steals the show. First off, she has the killer good looks to pull the role off. Second, she has beyond mastered Lina's...ahem..."interesting" voice. Third, she simply knows how to pull the best comedic bits from the role without going into territory where she only does things for a laugh. One of the more famous scenes from the show (minus that whole raining on stage thing) is Lina's vocal lesson, where she tries, to great effect, to learn how to say her lines with an accent that doesn't sound like it could break glass, and she OWNS it with her scene partner, Kristen Cooley, who also has some amazing comedic bits throughout the show (watch for her bedazzled flask!)

The set...WOW. I know most of the backdrops must be rented, but the stage is dominated by a giant staircase that transforms into the street scene for the rain effect to happen. The entire thing just works incredibly well for the show. Scenes transition almost effortlessly from one to another with the help of the simple, yet effective set.

Again, Bambi Johnson does not disappoint with choreography. She puts Joseph and James to work with their tap numbers, which could use a little more syncrhonicity, but I will credit that to opening night jitters to a very excited audience. I will say that in the group tap numbers, some of the chorus looks obviously confused with their tap steps. Unfortunately, I don't think Ms. Johnson was given dancers who can really make her choreography soar, but she makes them look as good as she can! At the end of the day, if you can't dance, fake it until you make it!

Overall, I liked it. I think this cast will really hit their stride by next weekend, and I suggest this show for everyone, including families. Tickets are $12-18 and can be purchased at the door (though with the way it will sell, I suggest pre-buying), by calling 443-840-ARTS or online at www.ccbcmd.edu/arts.

As always, PLEASE get out there and support this awesome show, as well as any other theatre events happening around you! The arts are a terrible thing to waste, and James Biernatowski wrestles with a mannequin and a couch, which is reason enough to see the show. Oh...did I mention that IT RAINS ON STAGE? Yeah. See it.

Weekend plans!

Okay, so Cockpit's "Singin' in the Rain" opens on Friday! I've been told there is a preview tonight at 8 that is open to anyone, so if any of you readers go, let me know how it is!

I'll be there either Friday or Saturday evening, and I can't wait!

Break legs everyone!

Actor Q&A: Joseph Murphy

Okay people, I have another Actor Q&A, this time with Joseph Murphy, star of Cockpit's "Singin' in the Rain" which opens on Friday! Joseph has some big, Gene Kelly-sized shoes to fill, but I'm sure that he does an excellent job! I can't wait to see the show, and I'm sending good thoughts your way, Joseph!

Name: Joseph Murphy

Age: 23

Most Recent Show: Annie at Phoenix Festival Theater

Next Show: unknown at this point

Dream Roles: Don Lockwood which I am thrilled to be able to play, Phantom, Che in Evita, and Jekyll and Hyde

Favorite Shows That You've Performed in: Chicago at Phoenix Festival Theater and RENT at Tidewater Players

Worst onstage mishap: Splitting my pants onstage during a dance performance.

Any parting comments: I am thrilled to be playing the role which my idol, Gene Kelly, made famous. I only hope I can do it justice.


Break legs, Joseph! Here's to a great run!

Tony Awards!

So, I was impressed with the Tony Awards last night. A lot better than I thought they would be! I noticed how obviously time-crunched they were at the end, with Sean Hayes cutting off the AI Team about 30 seconds into their speech after they pulled a blackout on them. Oh well. The one thing I don't like about the Tony Awards is that for Best Play and especially Best Musical, everyone involved with the show at any level feels the need to get on stage, which, in itself, takes 3 minutes.

Anyways.

I have the list of the nominees and winners from Playbill.com, as if you haven't already seen them. Just act surprised.

Names denoted with a * are the winners.


Best Musical

American Idiot

Fela!

*Memphis

Million Dollar Quartet


Catherine Zeta-Jones and Douglas Hodge
photo by Joseph Marzullo/WENN
Best Performance by a Leading Actor in a Musical

Kelsey Grammer, La Cage aux Folles
Sean Hayes, Promises, Promises
*Douglas Hodge, La Cage aux Folles
Chad Kimball, Memphis
Sahr Ngaujah, Fela!

Best Performance by a Leading Actress in a Musical

Kate Baldwin, Finian's Rainbow
Montego Glover, Memphis
Christiane Noll, Ragtime Sherie Rene Scott, Everyday Rapture
*Catherine Zeta-Jones, A Little Night Music

Best Revival of a Musical

Finian's Rainbow

*La Cage aux Folles

A Little Night Music

Ragtime

Best Play

In the Next Room or the Vibrator Play
Author: Sarah Ruhl

Next Fall
Author: Geoffrey Nauffts

*Red
Author: John Logan

Time Stands Still
Author: Donald Margulies

Best Revival of a Play

*Fences

Lend Me a Tenor

7 The Royal Family

A View From the Bridge

Best Choreography

Rob Ashford, Promises, Promises
*Bill T. Jones, Fela!
Lynne Page, La Cage aux Folles
Twyla Tharp, Come Fly Away

Best Performance by a Leading Actor in a Play
Jude Law, Hamlet
Alfred Molina, Red
Liev Schreiber, A View from the Bridge
Christopher Walken, A Behanding in Spokane
*Denzel Washington, Fences

Best Performance by a Leading Actress in a Play

*Viola Davis, Fences
Valerie Harper, Looped
Linda Lavin, Collected Stories
Laura Linney, Time Stands Still
Jan Maxwell, The Royal Family

Best Performance by a Featured Actor in a Musical

Kevin Chamberlin, The Addams Family
Robin De Jesús, La Cage aux Folles
Christopher Fitzgerald, Finian's Rainbow
*Levi Kreis, Million Dollar Quartet
Bobby Steggert, Ragtime

Best Performance by a Featured Actress in a Musical

Barbara Cook, Sondheim on Sondheim
*Katie Finneran, Promises, Promises
Angela Lansbury, A Little Night Music
Karine Plantadit, Come Fly Away
Lillias White, Fela!

Best Direction of a Musical

Christopher Ashley, Memphis
Marcia Milgrom Dodge, Ragtime
*Terry Johnson, La Cage aux Folles
Bill T. Jones, Fela!

Best Direction of a Play

*Michael Grandage, Red
Sheryl Kaller, Next Fall
Kenny Leon, Fences
Gregory Mosher, A View from the Bridge

Best Performance by a Featured Actor in a Play

David Alan Grier, Race
Stephen McKinley Henderson, Fences
Jon Michael Hill, Superior Donuts
Stephen Kunken, Enron
*Eddie Redmayne, Red


Scarlett Johansson and Levi Kreis
photo by Joseph Marzullo/WENN
Best Performance by a Featured Actress in a Play

Maria Dizzia, In the Next Room or the Vibrator Play
Rosemary Harris, The Royal Family
Jessica Hecht, A View from the Bridge
*Scarlett Johansson, A View from the Bridge
Jan Maxwell, Lend Me a Tenor

Best Sound Design of a Musical

Jonathan Deans, La Cage aux Folles
*Robert Kaplowitz, Fela!
Dan Moses Schreier and Gareth Owen, A Little Night Music
Dan Moses Schreier, Sondheim on Sondheim

Best Sound Design of a Play

Acme Sound Partners, Fences
Adam Cork, Enron
*Adam Cork, Red
Scott Lehrer, A View from the Bridge

Best Scenic Design of a Musical

Marina Draghici, Fela!
*Christine Jones, American Idiot
Derek McLane, Ragtime
Tim Shortall, La Cage aux Folles

Best Lighting Design of a Musical

*Kevin Adams, American Idiot
Donald Holder, Ragtime
Nick Richings, La Cage aux Folles
Robert Wierzel, Fela!

Best Lighting Design of a Play

Neil Austin, Hamlet
*Neil Austin, Red
Mark Henderson, Enron
Brian MacDevitt, Fences

Best Scenic Design of a Play
John Lee Beatty, The Royal Family
Alexander Dodge, Present Laughter
Santo Loquasto, Fences
*Christopher Oram, Red

Best Costume Design of a Musical
*Marina Draghici, Fela!
Paul Tazewell, Memphis
Matthew Wright, La Cage aux Folles

Best Costume Design of a Play

Martin Pakledinaz, Lend Me a Tenor
Constanza Romero, Fences
David Zinn, In the Next Room or the Vibrator Play
*Catherine Zuber, The Royal Family

Best Book of a Musical

Everyday Rapture
Dick Scanlan and Sherie Rene Scott

Fela!
Jim Lewis and Bill T. Jones

*Memphis
Joe DiPietro

Million Dollar Quartet
Colin Escott and Floyd Mutrux

Best Original Score (Music and/or Lyrics) Written for the Theatre

The Addams Family
Music & Lyrics: Andrew Lippa Enron
Music: Adam Cork
Lyrics: Lucy Prebble

Fences
Music: Branford Marsalis

*Memphis
Music: David Bryan
Lyrics: Joe DiPietro, David Bryan

Best Orchestrations

Jason Carr, La Cage aux Folles
Aaron Johnson, Fela!
Jonathan Tunick, Promises, Promises
*Daryl Waters & David Bryan, Memphis

The 2010 Tony Awards for Lifetime Achievement in the Theatre were presented to playwright and director Alan Ayckbourn, and Tony Award-winning actress Marian Seldes.

The recipient of the Isabelle Stevenson Award is Tony Award winner David Hyde Pierce. The Isabelle Stevenson Award recognizes an individual from the theatre community "who has made a substantial contribution of volunteered time and effort on behalf of one or more humanitarian, social service or charitable organizations, regardless of whether such organizations relate to the theatre.

This year's Tony Honors are presented to The Alliance of Resident Theatres New York, B.H. Barry and BC/EFA executive director Tom Viola.

The Eugene O'Neill Theater Center in Waterford, CT, is the recipient of the 2010 Tony Award for Regional Theatre.




Congratulations to all, and we will see you next year, where hopefully, they can stick to a schedule.

Actor Q&A: James Biernatowski

Alright, so as to avoid hateful theatre queens leaving stupid comments, I've disabled them. Sorry, but I want this blog to be fun, and I have no patience for rudeness.

ONWARDS.

Okay so James Biernatowski is Playing Cosmo in Cockpit's "Singin in the Rain" and I suggest you all go! I caught him in Chicago playing Mary Sunshine at PFT a few seasons ago, and he was FABULOUS. So be sure not to miss the show!

Name: James Patrick Biernatowski

Age: 23

Most Recent Show: Currently "Singin' in the Rain" at Cockpit in Court

Next Show: CHICAGO (Mary Sunshine) for the Frederick Towne Players followed by SWEENEY TODD at Vagabonds

Dream Roles: Albin/Zaza in La Cage aux Folles, Bobby in Crazy for You, The Emcee in Cabaret (All shows I have done, just not those roles)

Favorite Shows That You've Performed in: Love! Valour! Compassion!, Crazy for You, La Cage Aux Folles. The Full Monty

Worst onstage mishap: NONE! I am a perfectionist! Actually, the one mishap that happened to a lot of us during "La Cage" was in the Can-Can. When we did the jump splits (aka Cooter Slams) our shoes often flung into the audience and hit people

Any parting comments: 1. Come and see Singin' in the Rain. 2. Support ALL local community theatre 3. Don't ever stand in my light


Thanks, James! Can't wait to see the show. Break legs figuratively, not literally, as you lots of tap dancing to do.

Rules, because anarchy is overrated

Ok, y'all. On a more serious note, I need to put something out there right now. I went back and noticed a comment that I didn't really want to see, but knew that I'd run into eventually.

This blog was created as a place to promote and talk about theatre-related stuff in MD. Unfortunately, like everything else involving theatre, bitter people with nothing better to do with their time felt the need to be rude and offensive.

If you feel the need to post comments that are hateful, do it on the wall of your parent's basement, where you most likely still live. Theatre is supposed to be fun for everyone, and for some reason, some MD Theatre folk have this sense of "Next Stop Broadway" which, I hate to be the one to inform you of, is not the case. So please, for your sake, get another hobby and lighten up.

Actor Q&A: Elisabeth Johnson

Ok so in my last post about 10 minutes ago I said that I had some more Q&A things coming up next week. Then, I decided that since this is MY blog where I do WHATEVER I want, I'm posting some now. So there.

Anyways, Elisabeth Johnson, who just finished playing Sharpay Evans in PFT's High School Musical (rather fabulously, if I might add) sent her Q&A back to me after what I'm sure was a stressful final week. Happy Summer, Ms. Johnson. Without further chattering on my part:

Name: Elisabeth Haley Johnson

Age: Currently, I'm sixteen. Almost seventeen!

Most Recent Show: High School Musical at Phoenix Festival Theater playing Sharpay Evans.

Next Show: After taking the summer off, my next show will be Peter Pan at John Carroll.

Dream Roles: AH! Love this question. I have a few. First and foremost, Eva Peron in Evita. I watched the movie when I was six and started singing her songs then; She's such a strong character. Also, the Narrator in Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. When I was about thirteen, I had the opportunity to perform in the Children's Choir when it was touring in 07. That was a great experience. Lastly, Mimi in RENT. That musical holds a special spot in my heart.

Favorite Shows That You've Performed in: This is a really tough question to answer. I think it would have to be either Sharpay or Annie. You know, Annie's so sweet, and when I performed it at Tidewater Players in Havre de Grace, we had such an outstanding cast. That being said, shooting death stares and talking down to people can be just (if not more) fun! Playing the mean girl is fun. People tell me "You're really good at playing the (insert cuss word here)" It makes me laugh because I'm really not a mean person.

Worst onstage mishap: Oh, this wasn't funny then but now I think about it and I cannot help but laugh. During the final dress for High School Musical, there was a scene where I was in the Chemistry Lab. It was dark when we came on. I sat in the very back of the "classroom", flush up against the curtains. I had moved my chair because it was too close to my friend Conor's. I went to place my bag next to the chair and sit down, however I stepped back for some reason. I completely missed the platform and fell off the back of the set! Not only did I hit my head then, but when I fell the heel of my stiletto's hooked the strap of my bag, which pulled the chair on the platform along with it. Needless to say, the chair came out of nowhere and knocked me flat. Talk about pain. We had a preview audience; I was mortified! After that, I earned the nickname "Topples."

There you have it folks, an Eva Peron/Mimi in the making! Thanks again for filling this out Elisabeth! Best of luck with Peter Pan, and enjoy your summer off!

-OG

Tony Night!

Hopefully the new layout/background are working. Knowing my luck with technology, they aren't.

Well, folks, tonight is the Tony Awards. Nothing looks like it will be too exciting/groundbreaking, but as theatre folk we are kind of obligated to sit through it anyways. Depending on how exciting it is, I might actually live blog on here, but who knows!

Also, I have next to NO e-mails about upcoming auditions or productions, so if you want them to be seen on here, let me know!

I have some more actor Q&A things coming your way next week as well.

Until then,

OG

Say Whaaa?

Random Update...but...Ricky Martin as Che in the Broadway Revival of Evita? Huh?

...discuss.

Actor Q&A: Ryan DeVoe

HEY EVERYONE!

Excited? I hope so. So a little while back, I was talking about maybe having local actors fill out a fun little theatre questionnaire, sort of like the "Cue and A" feature from Playbill. Luckily enough, one of my new favorites, Ryan DeVoe, from the cast of PFT's High School Musical was nice enough to be the first to fill it out! Hopefully I can get Elisabeth Johnson to do the same ASAP! So, all you actors in the area, don't be surprised if I get in touch about being a part of the blog!

Here we go!

Name: Ryan DeVoe (or LaShanta'via, whichever you prefer)

Age: How old do I look?

Most Recent Show: Playing Ryan Evans inHigh School Musical at Phoenix Festival Theatre!

Next Show: Curtains at Cockpit in Court! I've only been to a few rehearsals, but this cast is pretty awesome, so don't miss it!

Dream Roles: This is always fun to answer. I'd love to play Bobby in Company some day, and minus 75 pounds I'd love to be the Emcee in Cabaret. I'm a big fan of Henry in Next to Normal and Claude in Hair, both of which would be so amazing to do. I'm also told that I resemble Jennnifer Hudson, so Effie, obviously.

Favorite Shows That You've Performed in: Most recently, I play Mark in the DC/MD Premiere of RENT with Winterslane, which was a near perfect experience. Amazing director and creative team, a cast to die for, and I fell in love with DC while I was at it. Also, I have a ton of memories from doing the area premiere of "bare" a few years back. I wish I could go back to that time and do lots of things differently, which only some of my cast members will understand :) Also, 42nd Street, because I LOVE old fashioned, campy musicals with lots of tap dance.

Worst onstage mishap: In Tom Sawyer: The Musical (Yes, there is a musical, which I think is amazing and underrated, but I digress), I performed barefoot the entire time, and during a backstage crossover, managed to give myself a pretty big gash on my foot, so I came back onstage bleeding all over the place during the scene where Tom and Huck sign an oath in blood. Guess what I did?

Any parting comments: Of course! Come see Curtains! Also, thanks for starting this blog and giving this awesome theatre community a new hub on the web for all things stage related!

Well, folks, do we like this new feature? Yes? No? Get back to me!

Press Release: Cockpit in Court

Cockpit in Court Summer Theatre Promises to Shine in its 38th Season
“Singin’ in the Rain,” “Daddy’s Dyin’ … Who’s Got the Will,” “Snow White,” “Curtains, the Musical Mystery Whodunit,” and “Angel Street” (Gaslight)

Baltimore County, Md. – Musical comedies have always been Cockpit in Court Summer Theatre’s strong suit and this summer’s opener promises not to disappoint.

"Singin' in the Rain" opens Cockpit's season June 18 at CCBC Essex.

The American Film Institute’s No. 1 rated Musical of All Time, “Singin’ in the Rain,” is a play based on the MGM film starring Gene Kelly. It is a light-hearted comedy chronicling the transition of Hollywood films from silent pictures to “talkies.”

Jimmy Biernatowski of Harford County as Cosmo Brown (left), Jessica Schaub Phillips of White Marsh as Kathy Seldon and Joseph Murphy of Harford County, as Don Lockwood headline the ensemble cast. James Hunnicutt, again at the helm as Cockpit in Court’s Artistic Director, dons his director’s visor for this season opener.

“Singin’ in the Rain” runs 8 p.m. June 18, 19, 25 and 26 and July 1, 2 and 3 with Sunday matinees at 3 p.m. June 20, 27 and July 4. All performances are on the Mainstage of the B Building Theatre at CCBC Essex, 7201 Rossville Boulevard. Tickets ($18 general admission, $16 for seniors (60+) and $12 for children 12 years and under) are available from the CCBC Box Office at 443-840-ARTS or online at www.ccbcmd.edu/arts.

Cockpit’s Cabaret Theatre goes for laughs with “Daddy’s Dyin' … Who’s got the Will?” This farcical look at a dysfunctional Texas family in search of a misplaced will proves the adage that if you didn’t laugh, you would cry. Joey Hellman directs this Del Shores play.

Laughter abounds with "Daddy's Dyin' ... Whos Got the Will?" opening on June 25 in the Cabaret Theatre.

Denis L. Latkowski of Perry Hall, Md. plays “Daddy” (Buford) [clockwise from the left], Janise K. Whelan of East Baltimore, Md. [left], is cast as “Sara Lee,” Mark Macaluso of Hamilton, plays “Harmony” and Jennifer Skarzinski of Parkville, Md., is cast as “Evalita.”

“Daddy’s Dyin' … Who’s got the Will?” runs 8 p.m. June 25, 26, July 2, 3 and 3 p.m. June 27 and July 4 in the Cabaret Theatre on the second floor of the B Building at CCBC Essex, 7201 Rossville Boulevard. Tickets are $15 general admission and $15 for seniors (60+) and are available through the CCBC Box Office at 443-840-ARTS or online at www.ccbcmd.edu/arts.

Cockpit in Court Summer Theatre presents with the Royal Court Jester’s Young Peoples Theatre production of “Snow White” will run 11 a.m. July 13, 14 and 15, 3 p.m. July 11, 17 and 18 and 7 p.m. July 9, 10, 16 and 17 in the J Building Lecture Hall. Tickets are $8 for all seats and are available through the CCBC Box Office at 443-840-ARTS or online at www.ccbcmd.edu/arts.

“Curtains, the Musical Mystery Whodunit,” will be performed July 23 through Aug. 8 on the Mainstage of the B Building and “Angel Street (Gaslight)” runs July 30 through August 8 in the Cabaret Theatre, second floor of the B Building.

For tickets or information about Cockpit in Court Summer Theatre productions contact the CCBC Box Office at 443-840-ARTS or go online to www.ccbcmd.edu/arts. Season tickets for Cockpit in Court Summer Theatre ($56 for adults [4 plays] or $48 for seniors [4 plays]) are still available.

********

Also, Congrats to the cast of High School Musical on a great run! Can't wait for Cockpit!

HSM: Revisited

Good morning, starshines.

So, I went back to PFT's outstanding production of "High School Musical" last night and loved it even more than I did last weekend. I will tell you now that if you want to see it, get there today, since the final show on Sunday has sold out, according to the box office.

The cast really hit their stride last night, and the energy being shot off that stage was incredible. The audience was having a fantastic time! Tyler Fritz (Troy Bolton) really held his own last night. The vocals were more blended and he seemed more stable in the role. It was a huge improvement over last weekend, and his performance overall seemed more grounded. Bravo, Tyler. Lexie Wohlfort as Gabriella Montez continues to impress with stellar vocals and acting, but you all knew that already! Once again, the show completely belongs to Elisabeth Johnson and Ryan DeVoe, even more so than last weekend. Elisabeth was extra catty and spot-on with her vocals and acting last night. She prances about the stage like it is her personal space that the other "plebians" are merely allowed to exist in, and her general disregard for other students is brilliant. Ryan takes the comedy factor to new heights, keeping the audience dying to hear what will come out of his mouth next. His improv skills are second to none, and last night they were on full display. With quips about Sharpay's interesting outfits and a jab at everyone's favorite Canadian, Justin Bieber, DeVoe stole the show. Big congratulations to Elisabeth and Ryan!

Once again, I discovered more ensemble standouts last night. Big props to the trio of students with odd hobbies in "Status Quo"! Ben Getz, Daniel Saunders and Tigga Smaller worked their solos with great voices and amazing energy. The crowd especially loved Ms.Smaller as Martha, the nerdy bookworm turned hip hop jammer! Charis Bartenslager is one of the skater types who really stood out in detention with her 5-minute long impression of an earth worm slowly making her way across the stage. Bravo on your patience, Charis.

Alright people, GO SEE THIS SHOW. Your last chance is Today! (Saturday) The performances are at 3 and 8 p.m. and since Sunday is now sold out, it will be your last chance to see this inspiring cast. Tickets can be purchased at HCC at the Chesapeake Theatre box office or by calling ahead to 443-412-2211. Bravo to them!

Yours,

OG

Auditions-Cabaret

Hello all!

I just wanted to post some info about auditions for one of my absolute favorite shows of ALL TIME: Cabaret!

The show runs from September 10-October 10 at Spotlighters on St.Paul Street.

Auditions are being held Thursday, June 17 from 7 to 10 p.m. and Saturday, June 19 from 10:30 a.m. until 2 p.m.

Callbacks will be held Tuesday, June 22 from 7 to 10 p.m.

Please prepare 16-24 bars of an up-tempo AND ballad. Be prepared to sing both, though you might not get to. They ask that you NOT sing from the show at all. Also, come dressed to learn a dance combination.

To schedule an audition time, please e-mail 2010Cabaret@gmail.com

Alright, people. Dust off the jazz pants and get your glitter ready. Cabaret is coming!

-OG

Happy Memorial Day!

I hate to go all "non-theater" on you all, but deal with it. Happy Memorial Day to all of the men and women of this country who work so selflessly to ensure that we can live happy and free lives in this country. Without you, this blog wouldn't exist.

Anywayses,

I have an update on my last update. Elisa Dugan is the name of the actress that is playing Lina in "Singin"..." and I have been assured, again, that her performance will be hysterical. Break legs Elisa!

Oh yeah...

ONE MORE THING!

So, when I posted the season info for Cockpit, I said I would try to get some more info on the casts of the shows, and I totally forgot to post what else I learned!

1. James Biernatowski is playing Cosmo Brown in "Singin..."

2. Ryan DeVoe and Beth Higbee of PFT's HSM are in the cast of Curtains, so I'm sure you can expect LOTS of fantastic character choices from them.

3.I need to get a name officially, but apparently the actress playing Lina in "Singin'..." is NOT to be missed. If anyone has her name, either comment or e-mail me!

Thanks.

-Fiyero

Btw, I might sign each post as a different musical character. By might, I mean I'm going to no matter what.

Updates

Hey everyone! Again, I'd like to let everyone know that the official e-mail address for this blog is: mdtheatrereviews@yahoo.com! PLEASE let me know if you're in a show and want an announcement on here! I'm going to try to stay current with what is coming up, but I can't be relied on to know about every show, so drop me a line if you want me to post it here!

I'm returning to PFT's "High School Musical" either tomorrow or next Friday because my friends are now dying to see it, so I might potentially post another review-esque "thing" when I see it again. Also, I know that "Singin' in the Rain" is one of the next shows that I'll review, unless I find out about some other performances going on soon!

Also, I'm thinking about taking the "Cue and A" feature of Playbill and running with it. How would you all feel about some fun questionnaires filled out by some local talent? Yes? No? Probably no, but I like it anyways so I might just do it. I'll try to find a way to get in touch with some of the HSM cast members to see if they would be interested, so if anyone knows how to call Sharpay or Ryan Evans on those fabulous bejeweled cell phones, let me know! :)

Okay people, I have some LOST reruns to catch up on, and by catch up on, I mean watch but not actually understand. So, I'm out.

Respectfully Yours,

OG

Review- High School Musical @PFT

WOW! The Wildcats of East High are working it out in Harford County in Disney's "High School Musical"! I had such an awesome time tonight! For an opening night, there were obvious snags that come with first-night jitters, but this cast covers like professionals and moves on swiftly. First, the set, though simple, works for the purposes of the show. The lighting design was especially noticeable, and really did wonders for each scene. PFT's Technical Department is getting better and better, and it really helps the overall production value of their shows. The lights really shone (half pun intended...I guess?) in "Status Quo", the Act 1 closer. Bambi Johnson doesn't disappoint with her choreography, as I expected she wouldn't. The cast is running, jumping, spinning and hip-hopping like crazy, and she has created dances that get both the cast and crowd going. The Megamix, which happens after Curtain Call (so stay in your seats!) is the night's show stopper, with some surprise choreography worthy of the ESPN Cheerleading coverage (you'll see what I mean).

Eyvo Johnson directs this production, and he clearly knew what he was doing. The cast seems comfortable with what they are doing on stage, no matter how cheesy it may be. It is also apparent that he allowed these actors some space to create their own characters, most obviously with Sharpay and Ryan Evans (more on them later) so they felt at home on stage. I'm going to suggest that this new Creative Dream Team PFT has stay in place, because they know how to put on a show for sure!

Alright, onto what you all (all 5 of you) want to know...How was the cast? Starting with Lexie Wohlfort, who plays Gabriella. Lexie, a student at John Carroll in Bel Air, plays the role to perfection. Gabriella isn't the most fun character to play. but Ms. Wohlfort does it very well. She has a pretty voice that lends itself well to her character's various ballads, and on top of that, her costumes only highlight her sunny disposition on stage! Bravo, Lexie! Tyler Fritz, as Troy Bolton, is also a JC student and tackles the role with great energy but falls short of his cast mates most of the time. It might have been opening night jitters, but Mr.Fritz has to play a lot of catch up to match the level of talent on that stage. Adam McDowell and Kelleigh Pangratz as Chad and Taylor, play well off of each other and bring lots of smiles to the audience's faces. Standout Mackenzie Brockmeyer is adorable as Kelsi, the composer-in-the-making of the show. She is clumsy and lovable and you can't help but like her. Matthew Feldman is another star of the evening, playing the school announcer, Jack Scott, to perfection. He knows how to make a crowd laugh, and succeeds greatly. The two real stars of the evening though, were Elisabeth Johnson and Ryan DeVoe, who play wonder twins Sharpay and Ryan Evans. Both have incredible acting skills, which they use to their advantage constantly. They shoot death stares at "lesser students" like it was their job. Ms.Johnson has a pretty voice and looks gorgeous in her costumes, and plays Sharpay like a true pro, and makes you hate to love her within 10 minutes of the show starting. It seems like a role that she was "born to play" and play it she does! Mr.DeVoe is comic genius, turning Ryan into a ditzy, hysterical sidekick to Sharpay and has the audience bursting with laughter every time he is on stage. The boy has insane comedic timing and he knows how to use it, and redefines the word "scene stealer". On top of that, he can work a visual gag like no other, using his various props and day-glo costumes (including a pair of Lady Gaga-esque sunglasses) to his advantage. Together, the pair steal the show, and have arguably the best voices out of the cast.

It isn't just the principals who stand out, though. The ensemble features some amazing talent as well! Leslie Perry, the head cheerleader, looks fantastic in her dance pieces and pulls off a back handspring like a true varsity cheerleader would! Conor DeVoe pulls out a dead-on Kristen Wiig impersonation in the "Auditions" number, as well as showing off his incredible dance ability at various points throughout the show. Beth Higbee shines in two small roles, one as a ditzy cheerleader (she doesn't have lines, but keep an eye on her, she knows how to work an ensemble spot) and as an up-tempo and sequin-loving auditionee in the "Auditions" number. Joe Novak somehow manages to dance in an oversized mascot costume, so kudos to him for avoiding an on-stage heat stroke.

Okay, so this was a little long winded, I'm aware, but I'm also getting the hang of writing reviews, too. They will become a little less crazy over time, I promise! Plus, I'm a Disney fan, so I could go on forever about this production!

I say unto you all, GO SEE THIS SHOW. It is a GREAT time for kids and families, and even those of us who just love some good Disney showtunes! I give the production an A-, the minus for some of the casts shortcomings and a weird rendition of "Cellular Fusion" late in Act 1. Overall, though, the show is awesome and I loved it. I might even return next weekend once the cast has really hit their stride!

Again, ticket information can be found on Harford's website

www.harford.edu

D

Lack of Posting/E-mail/Vacation

Hi all! So I sort of posted a lot then disappeared. Sorry! Between the wifi at my home being shoddy and have no kind of extra time, I fell off the radar. Anyways, I finally got an e-mail account for this blog up and running. So, if you want to send any comments/concerns/love or let me know about upcoming performances, the address is mdtheatrereviews@yahoo.com. Seriously, I would love for anyone who is involved with a show to let me know so I can get the word out! Anyways, I leave in the morning for a vacation with my family, so I will most likely be falling off the radar until Thursday when I return! I would assume there will be wifi, so I will try to post some more season listings on here, since I haven't been to anything to review, and try to update at least once this week while I'm gone. So please, if you have anything you'd like me to try and post, e-mail me! I'll be attending the opening performance of High School Musical at PFT on Friday, so expect the review either late that night or whenever I decide to wake up on Saturday morning! Until next time, keep belting.

D

Season Listing: PFT/HDT

I think that Harford County is getting the cold shoulder when it comes to arts reviews, so I wanted to get the info out there about Phoenix Festival Theatre and Harford Dance Theatre's seasons! Both companies do amazing work, especially for families, with the occasional mature piece thrown in to give the adults a night away from the kids. Opening next week is "Disney's High School Musical" which promises to be a treat for the audience. The husband and wife team of Eyvo Johnson and Bambi Johnson direct and choreograph the production. Expect lots of singing and some awesome dancing. Mrs.Johnson has served as director and choreographer to many Harford Dance Theatre shows in the past, and they never disappoint, so expect nothing but fun from this production.

Show Times are:

May 28-8 pm

May 29- 3 & 8 pm

May 30-3 pm

June 4- 8 pm

June 5- 3 & 8 pm

June 6-3 pm

Tickets are $9-18 each and can be purchased over the phone (443-412-2211) or in person at the box office which is open daily in Harford Community College's Chesapeake Building, also the location of the show. I have it on good word that tickets have been pre-selling very well, so I'd suggest purchasing ASAP over the phone. This will be a great one for the kids and families! I'll post a review after opening night! Because yes, I will be there opening night cheering on the Wildcats! What can I say? I love me some Disney.

Next up Harford Dance Theatre's "Discover Dance Series: Animals on Parade" which plays the Amoss Center on June 12th. I've already heard good things about this event, and seeing as it is for one day only, get out there! Harford Dance Theatre has been a hub for some of the county's most promising dancers, and they never fail to entertain! Tickets are $6-12 and can be purchased by calling 443-412-2211.

Finishing up the season at PFT is "Sweeney Todd:The Demon Barber of Fleet Street" or, Sweeney Todd, the man with enough emotional issues to span 4 episodes of Oprah. Todd Starkey of Tidewater Players directs, and I'm sure it will be a knockout. I don't remember dates specifically, but Mr.Starkey directed "Cabaret" for PFT a few years back, and I will say that it was hands down one of the best production in area history. Mr.Starkey knows how to put on a show, and I'm sure with this Sondheim chiller, he will deliver in full and scare the bejesus out of the audience while doing it. The show opens in September, so I'll post more info on it later this summer.

Okay, people. My advice, get to HCC to take in some great performances in May/June with "High School Musical" and "Discover Dance" and if you like what you see, get thee back for Sweeney!

Season Listing: Cockpit in Court

Cockpit in Court has been producing great, affordable theatre for the community for years, and this season is no different! I'm posting their season listing and how to purchase tickets because this summer will be exciting and not to be missed!

Singin' in the Rain
Mainstage
June 18 - July 4

Daddy's Dyin',
Who's Got the Will?
Cabaret Theatre
June 25 - July 4

Snow White & the Seven Dwarfs
Lecture Hall
July 9 - 18

Curtains: The Musical
Murder Mystery
Mainstage
July 23 - August 8

Angel Street (Gaslight)
Cabaret Theatre
July 30 - August 8

I'm personally very excited for "Singin..." and "Curtains" because, though one is far newer than the other, both are fun, campy musicals that everyone can enjoy! I have it on good word that "Singin" will have some AMAZING rain effects on stage. To my knowledge, Joseph Murphy, from Harford County, will be playing the lead role! Those are some big, tap dancing shoes to fill, but I'm sure he is up for the challenge! I'm not sure about casting for "Curtains" but I will see if I can get some more info!

Tickets can be purchased online (https://www.ticketreturn.com/prod2/team.asp?SponsorID=2025), in person at the box office, or by phone at 443-840-2787. I'll be there, will you?

Better Late Than Never: Spelling Bee at Tidewaters

For those of you who don't know much about "The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee" I will tell you this: Get to Tidewater Players in Havre de Grace and see it! The show itself is about young spellers in their local spelling bee, complete with hummable music and a genius book. Tidewater has done a great job with the production as a whole, and I feel bad for not posting this before, but seeing as this blog literally just started, I figured that it was better late than never! If you ARE one of the readers who doesn't know much about the show, I would potentially avoid signing up to actually become a speller. Yes, part of the comedy comes from the fact that audience members who choose to participate are actually called on stage and cleverly worked into the script, most notably by the Bee's judges. I seem to have misplaced my program, which really doesn't do much for me in the ways of remembering everyone's names but cast standouts include Gary Dieter as Leaf Coneybear, a complete space cadet who is trying to prove his smarts to his large and oddly-named family and "Dickie" Mahoney as William Barfee (pronounced "bar-fay", one of the only comedic bits which grows tired by the end of the show) who pulls off Barfee's many neurotics ticks. All in all, I give the production a thumbs up, and if you're looking for something fun to do this coming weekend, I say head to HdG and see the show! Tickets are $16 and can be purchased online through their website (www.tidewaterplayers.com), in person, or by phone at 410-939-5046. Bravo, Tidewater!

Hello.

Hey everyone! So, I got to thinking, while I love BroadwayWorld, the reviews have been a little sparse lately and I wanted to create a space for Maryland Theatre Reviews as well as news tidbits when I actually get them. I noticed that, outside of Baltimore and it's closely surrounding areas, there wasn't a place for reviews and announcements about other happenings in MD theatre, so I hope you all (be it 1 or 1000) can tip me off on shows happening all over the place, so we can help get the word out about supporting the arts!