Saturday, March 30, 2024

BRIGADOON - Arizona Musical Theatre Orchestra: Showcase - April 20, 2024



ONE NIGHT ONLY!
Saturday, April 20th, 7:00 PM

Central United Methodist Church Sanctuary
1875 N. Central Ave. (by Phoenix Theatre)

TICKETS: 

$40 Adults (18+)
$20 Children
General Admission

Some of the state’s finest local actors, singers, and instrumentalists join together in a symphonic presentation of the classic Golden Age musical Brigadoon.

ABOUT THE SHOW:

Brigadaoon tells the story of New Yorkers Tommy Albright and Jeff Douglas, who come upon the mystical Scottish Highland town that emerges from the mist for one day every century. Enchanted by whirlwind romance and the town’s mysterious charm, Tommy and Jeff must decide whether to return to New York or stay in Brigadoon forever.

Alan Jay Lerner & Frederick Loewe (My Fair Lady, Camelot) have written a beautiful score that includes the standards “Almost Like Being in Love”, “Come to Me, Bend to Me”, and “The Heather on the Hill”. This show has laid the groundwork for Broadway’s evolution, and partly inspired the recent Apple TV+ parody comedy, Schmigadoon!

AZMTO’s Showcase program presents full shows (with dialogue), on-book, in concert – with full orchestra and SATB chorus!

Conducted by Mandi Broderick
Chorus Direction by Patti Graetz

ABOUT AZMTO: www.azmto.org

Productions are assembled over one weekend only, and are always open to the community.

Participation is welcome for people with a music background and a passion for theatre.

People of all genders, ethnic & racial backgrounds, cultures & nationalities, sexual orientations, physical & intellectual abilities, and spiritual traditions are encouraged to participate.

Ages 14+, with additional roles for children as shows dictate.

Review Highlights: STORYVILLE - Black Theatre Troupe

The Cast
photo by D4G Photography


highlights from local critics reviews - (click link at bottom of each review to read complete review)

Click here for more information on this production that runs through April 7

"The musical Storyville, now playing in a lively and energetic production at Black Theatre Troupe, focuses on the inhabitants of the notorious section of New Orleans that was, arguably, the birthplace of Jazz. While the show is overly long, and leaves a few plot lines dangling, it features intriguing characters and a score that’s a lively mash of jazz and traditional musical theatre songs....The 16-member cast are all energetic and capable of breathing life into the colorful characters in the show. ...Brenda Hankins’ music direction is bright and the six-member band is superb; Joseph Leyva’s trumpet solos are exceptional....While Storyville has a touch of melodrama it’s also an upbeat musical full of colorful characters that embrace the time and events in this century ago area with affection. With a very good cast and a fantastic band, Black Theatre Troupe’s production will keep your toes tapping and the joint jumping as it captures the flair and music of Storyville."  - Gil Benbrook, TalkinBroadway.com (click here to read the complete review)

Cast announced for TITANIC at Hale Centre Theatre



Thomas Andrews: Tyler Thompson
Frederick Barrett: Zac Bushman
Harold Bride: Bennett Smith
Frederick Fleet: Bennett Allen Wood
Captain E.J. Smith: Bryan Stewart
J. Bruce Ismay: Cameron Rollins
Charles Clarke: Kevin Orduño
Edgar Beane: Raymond Barcelo
Isidor Straus: Gary Pimentel
Jim Farrell: Jason Irr
Henry Etches / Pitman: Brandt Norris
Murdoch: Ryan Monaghan
Lightoller: Trevon Powell
Bellboy: Joseph Strode
Alice Beane: Ivana Martinic
Caroline Neville: Amanda Valenzuela
Kate McGowan: Brie Wadsworth-Gates
Kate Murphy: Gillian Elliott
Kate Mullins: Gracie Gamble
Ida Straus: Mary Jane McCloskey
Ensemble: Kira Galindo
Ensemble: Alixandra Giordano
Ensemble: Adam Guinn
Ensemble: Reece Harris
Ensemble: Joshua South

Understudies/Swings:
Alice Beane & Ida Straus: Kira Galindo
Kate Murphy & Kate Mullins: Alixandra Giordano
Kate McGowan & Caroline Neville: Gracie Gamble
Captain E.J. Smith, Isidor Straus & J. Bruce Ismay: Adam Guinn
Thomas Andrews: Cameron Rollins
Harold Bride & Frederick Barrett: Reece Harris
Frederick Fleet, Bellboy & Charles Clarke: Joshua South

Friday, March 29, 2024

Your first look at MASTER CLASS at Arizona Theatre Company

CLICK HERE for more information on this production, which runs through April 14





photos by Tim Fuller

Cast announced for DOG SEES GOD at Scottsdale Desert Stages Theatre



CB - Declan Skaggs
Beethoven - Evan Kaushesh
CB's Sister - Bella Cuchetti
Van - Eeshan Kumar
Matt - Jake Krotonsky
Van's Sister - McKenzie Jessen
Tricia - Taylor Penn
Marcy - Cate Carlino


Cast announced for PETER AND THE STARCATCHER at Mesa Encore Theatre





Molly: River Moyes 
Molly Understudy: Aija Tuffentsamer
Prentiss: Alex Frost 
Black Stache: Calliandra Rasmussen 
Smee: Dan Marburger 
Grempkin/ Mack/ Sanchez/ Fighting Prawn: Hanna Shreve 
Boy/Peter: Jacob Nichols 
Captain Scott: Jared Ferolino 
Slank/ Hawking Clam: Jennifer Webb 
Alf: Brian Tuscany 
Ted: Max McGinty 
Mrs. Bumbrake/ Teacher: Nat Coe
Swing: Samm Fabish
Lord Aster: Spencer Beckwith

Producing Artistic Director: Taylor Moschetti
Technical Director/ Carpenter: Cheryl Briley
Production Manager/ Scenic Designer: Lorelee Godden
Director: Clara Kundin
Assistant Director/ Properties Designer: Alexandra Kallis
Music Director/ Sound Designer: Brianna Fallon
Intimacy Director: Jacob Buttry
Fight Choreographer: Jack Taylor
Choreographer: Jared Sprowls
Dramaturg: Becca Levy
Dialect Coach: Tim Nipper
Stage Manager: Charlotte Strayhorne
Lighting Designer: Clare Burnett
Costume Designer: Richard “Mickey” Courtney
Wardrobe Assistant/ Hair & Makeup Designer: Theodore McEntire
Scenic Charge Artist: Gracie Ruiz

Thursday, March 28, 2024

Your first look at THE HUNCHBACK OF NOTRE DAME at Mesa Community College















photos by Harmony Turley

Arizona Theatre Company Names Charlene T. Vasquez Chief of Staff




Arizona Theatre Company (ATC) is proud to announce Charlene T. Vasquez as its new Chief of Staff. Vasquez will work closely with executive leadership to fortify the organization’s mission, forge vital connections, and spearhead projects aimed at propelling the company forward. 

"We are thrilled to welcome Charlene to the Arizona Theatre Company family," said Geri Wright, Executive Director of ATC. "Her wealth of experience, coupled with her unwavering dedication to community engagement, make her an invaluable asset as we chart the future course of our organization."

With over two decades of experience in community relations, marketing, and communications, Charlene brings a wealth of expertise and a distinguished track record of strategic leadership to her new position. Prior to joining ATC, she held pivotal roles across various sectors, demonstrating her commitment to community engagement and organizational advancement.

Most recently, Charlene served as the Director of Strategic Partnerships for the Arizona Coyotes, where she played a pivotal role in enhancing the team's presence and impact throughout the Valley. Her tenure was marked by initiatives that underscored the Coyotes' commitment to being exemplary corporate citizens and fostering community goodwill.

Before her tenure with the Coyotes, Charlene served as a Partnership Specialist for the Arizona Department of Commerce, where she played a key role in orchestrating partnership agreements in support of the 2020 Census, contributing significantly to statewide efforts.

Charlene's extensive career also includes notable positions such as Director of Promotions & Community Engagement for the Arizona Hotshots, VP of Administration and Community
Affairs for Friendly House, and Director of Cultural, Community, and Municipal Relations at Arizona State University.

A proud fourth-generation Arizonan and graduate of Arizona State University, Charlene holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration. She remains deeply committed to serving her community and has lent her expertise to numerous boards and committees, including the Victoria Foundation and Tempe Tourism.

In her new capacity as Chief of Staff at Arizona Theatre Company, Charlene Vasquez will undoubtedly continue to be a driving force in fostering connections, inspiring innovation, and advancing the organization's mission.

RKK Voice and Acting Studio Presents a Musical Theater Tap Intensive with Drama Desk Nominated Choreographer Shonn Wiley



Dance is imperative in the world of Musical Theater, and our goal is to provide as much training as possible, so we are offering a three week Tap intensive for anyone who is interested in exploring the world of Tap but may not be able to commit to a full time class. 

Dates: April 7th, 14th and 28th
All ages and experience levels welcome

Beginning Level: 5pm-6pm
Intermediate/Advanced: 6:30pm-7:30pm

Cost: Single Class 30$, Multiple Classes 25$ 

Location: Gotta Dance Studio, Peoria, AZ


Our BEGINNING LEVEL class will explore the basic breakdown of rhythmic components, with focus on the timing and structure of steps, if you have taken a few basic tap classes or want to try out this exciting dance form for the first time, this is the class for you! No Tap shoes necessary! 

Our INTERMEDIATE/ADVANCED class will touch on the same principles as the beginner class but will move quicker into complexity while focusing on choreography and performance!

SHONN WILEY made his Broadway debut in the Tony Award-Winning revival of 42ND STREET (Ford Center) where he performed the opening number for the Tony Awards at Radio City Music Hall. Shonn later returned to Broadway in Frank Wildhorn's DRACULA, The Musical (Belasco). Other NYC credits include: Junior Dolan in ON YOUR TOES (Encores!), John Trainor in NO NO, NANETTE (Encores!), Jack Donahue in MY VAUDEVILLE MAN (The York Theatre), Richard Loeb in THRILL ME (The York Theatre), Understudying and performing the title character in CANDIDE at New York City Opera, STAIRWAY TO PARADISE co-starring Kristin Chenoweth (Encores!), THE VIEW FROM HERE (NYMF). Shonn starred in the Chicago cast of the Tony Winning Broadway Musical, JERSEY BOYS as Bob Gaudio. Regional Theatre credits include: Burt in MARY POPPINS and Georg in SHE LOVES ME (Croswell Opera House), Anthony in Sweeney Todd (Barrington Stage) Bobby Child in CRAZY FOR YOU (Westchester Broadway Theatre), Younger Brother in RAGTIME (Papermill Playhouse), Dickon in THE SECRET GARDEN (5th Avenue Theatre), Cosmo Brown in SINGIN IN THE RAIN (The Toledo Rep), John Truitt in MEET ME IN ST. LOUIS (Santa Barbara CLO), Gerard in CAMILLE CLAUDEL (Goodspeed), Wayne Frake in STATE FAIR (MTW), Henrik in A LITTLE NIGHT MUSIC (Wheeling Symphony). Shonn is a founding member of the retro rock n' roll vocal group, UNDER THE STREETLAMP. Under The Streetlamp: Live, was filmed in 2011 and debuted on PBS across America. As a Choreographer, Shonn received a 2009 Lucille Lortel Award and Drama Desk Award nomination for outstanding choreography for MY VAUDEVILLE MAN (The York Theatre). Other choreography projects: GENTLEMAN’S GUIDE TO LOVE AND MURDER and ROMANCE ROMANCE (PVCC), (Goodspeed), SWEENEY TODD and POOL BOY (Barrington Stage), THE VIEW FROM HERE (NYMF), THE MUSIC MAN and FOREVER PLAID (Croswell). Shonn serves as the resident choreographer for UNDER THE STREETLAMP. As an educator, Shonn has been on faculty at Paradise Valley Community College, Gotta Dance Company, Centre Stage Kids, and has taught master classes and private lessons in dance, vocal/ musical theatre performance, and acting all over the world. He holds a BFA in drama from Carnegie Mellon University.

Review Highlights: KISS AND TELL - Hale Centre Theatre

Bowen Maxson and Mae Soelberg
Photo by Nick Woodward-Shaw


highlights from local critics reviews - (click link at bottom of each review to read complete review)

Click here for more information on this production that runs through May 21

"Hale Center Theatre's production of F. Hugh Herbert's 1943 comedy Kiss and Tell is a delightful and nostalgic reminder of the charm and humor of 1940s America. Set against the backdrop of a quaint, small town, the play follows the misadventures and misunderstandings that young love and gossip can bring. Under Jere Van Patten's adept direction, the large, excellent cast navigates the comedic nuances and heartfelt moments with precision, and the end result is a comedy full of charm and laughs....Under Jere Van Patten's bright and polished direction, the large ensemble cast skillfully navigates the delicate balance between comedy and drama while effectively capturing the nuances of everyday family life in small-town America in the 1940s. Mae Soelberg shines as the vivacious Corliss Archer, infusing her character with youthful exuberance and endearing virtue....With a high-pitched voice and bright comic timing, Bowen Maxson delivers a delightful performance as the bumbling Dexter, capturing the awkward charm of the lovestruck neighbor who has a serious crush on Corliss....a delightful throwback to the screwball comedies of the 1940s. With an excellent cast and wonderful direction, Hale Center Theatre's production is a nostalgic journey filled with humor and heartwarming moments, offering a charming escape to a bygone era."  - Gil Benbrook, TalkinBroadway.com (click here to read the complete review)

Wednesday, March 27, 2024

Don't miss out on Early Bird Pricing for Arizona Opera's New Works Festival!


Secure your New Works Festival tickets with Early Bird pricing until March 31

New Works Festival  May 10-12, 2024  Arizona Opera Center

New Works Festival

May 10-12, 2024

Arizona Opera Center

Join us for our New Works Festival, taking place May 10-12, 2024 at the Arizona Opera Center—a vibrant, immersive experience highlighting selections from operas that are new to the canon. Be the first to preview these poignant works in Arizona, which may even be featured in a future Arizona Opera season.

GET TICKETS

Your first look at STORYVILLE at Black Theatre Troupe



















photos by D4G Photography

Happy World Theater Day!

 

Cast announced for MURDER ON THE ORIENT EXPRESS at Starlight Community Theater



Hercule Poirot: Dan Ashlock
Monsieur Bouc: Keach Siriani-Madden
Countess Andrenyi: Harleigh Irizarry
Helen Hubbard: Cindy Covington
Mary Debenham: Veronica Joy Harris
Colonel Arbuthnot: Joshua Hengst
Princess Dragomiroff: Cindy Miesse 
Greta Ohlsson: Ian Rey Sausedo
Hector MacQueen: Zach Connaghan
Samuel Ratchett: Cody Bro
Michel/Head Waiter: Rich Gilliam