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THE SECRET COMEDY OF WOMEN Opening January 15th at The Mizner Park Cultural Center

30 Monday Dec 2019

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THE SECRET COMEDY OF WOMEN®

Opens January 15th for a Limited Engagement at
Mizner Park Cultural Center

“If there is a mystique that defines the feminine and a gap that obstructs understanding between the sexes, Gehring and Klein have probed it with intelligence and sensitivity and loads of good-natured laughs.”
~ Herbert Paine, BroadwayWorld.com

For Immediate Release
Contact:  Carol Kassie
carol@carolkassie.com / 561-445-9244

December 30, 2019

BOCA RATON, FL: – Ladies! Gather your girlfriends and your fun-loving men! The Secret Comedy of Women® will open the Mizner Park Cultural Center on January 15th and run through February 23rd.

The Secret Comedy of Women celebrates the joys of the journey from girlhood to womanhood. An immersive theatrical experience that rejoices in the challenges of being a woman – from boys to bras and pantyhose to menopause – this two-woman show explores the universal female experience through a rollicking spectacle of sweetly-sharp comedy, songs, dances, stories, and spontaneous moments of discovery that all women share.

Inspired by authors Barbara Gehring and Linda Klein’s earnest and amusingly absurd writings in their girlhood diaries, The Secret Comedy of Women is a mix of sketch, improvisation, audience participation, witty songs and clever videos. The show reminds audiences of the very funny and very charming similarities between all women. “It’s really like a girlhood reunion,” says Klein. “Our show is something highly universal, made personal. It’s for women of all ages – and for the men who love them,” adds Gehring.

The Secret Comedy of Women actively engages its audience with its high spirited, good-natured style of humor. With reviewers calling the show “…truly brilliant.” (Denver Post) and “Laugh out loud comedy!” (Broadway World) it is no wonder that this “two hour celebration of bras, purses, showers, breastfeeding and menopause” (Pittsburgh Tribune) ran continuously for nearly two years at the Denver Center for the Performing Arts, and has played to over a quarter of a million women across North America.

Barbara Gehring and Linda Klein both began writing and performing comedy at an early age.  While young Barbara directed elaborate puppet shows in her secret fort thousands of miles away in Winnipeg, Canada, little Linda was producing extravagant backyard circuses in a tiny Colorado mountain town.  Neither could have foreseen how well these skills would blend together decades later when they wrote The Secret Comedy of Women.  Had they known each other all those years ago, The Secret Comedy of Women is exactly the type of show they would have created together and now as adults, it is exactly the kind of show in which they’ve always wanted to perform. Gehring and Klein have successful careers in the entertainment industry beyond comedy, and have rich expertise in the areas of training, writing, creative thinking, logistics, administration, marketing, and public relations. .

The Secret Comedy of Women will run from January 15 through February 23 at the Mizner Park Cultural Center.  Tickets range from $45 to $65; group rates are also available.  Tickets can be purchased online at http://playhouseinfo.com/miznerpark or http://miznerparkculturalcenter.com, or by phone at 844-672-2849. (For group sales call 888-264-1788).           

For more information about The Secret Comedy of Women please contact Carol Kassie at carol@carolkassie.com / 561-445-9244 or visit www.SecretComedyOfWomen.com

In the attached photos:
Barbara Gehring & Linda Klein in The Secret Comedy of Women.
Photo credit:  Tony Shapiro

~

The Secret Comedy of Women – Girls Only
By Barbara Gehring & Linda Klein
January 15 – February 23, 2020
Tickets:  $45 – $65
For Tickets:  844-672-2849 / http://playhouseinfo.com/miznerpark or
http://miznerparkculturalcenter.com/ 
Group Sales: 1-888-264-1788
Performances:
Thursday, Friday, and Saturday at 7:30 pm
Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday at 2:30 pm
All performances will take place at
Mizner Park Cultural Arts Center
201 Plaza Real (2nd Floor)
Boca Raton, FL 33432
MiznerParkCulturalCenter.com
www.girlsonlycomedy.com
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Opening January 10: TO LIFE 2: MORE STORIES & MUSIC CELEBRATING THE CONTRIBUTIONS OF JEWISH COMPOSERS TO THE GOLDEN AGE OF BROADWAY

23 Monday Dec 2019

Posted by in Clients, Shari Upbin, Uncategorized

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Hy Juter
PresentsTo Life 2:  More Stories & Music Celebrating the Contributions of Jewish Composers to The Golden Age of Broadway
At the Willow Theatre in Sugar Sand Park
January 10 – February 2, 2020

“My whole thing is not just to play music for people, but to make them part of the evening.”~ Marvin Hamlisch

“I guess I think of a musical as something in which the music is sort of like the engine of the piece – whether it is in the theatre or in film.” ~ John Kander

“A song must move the story ahead. A song must take the place of dialogue. If a song halts the show, pushes it back, stalls it, the audience won’t buy it; they’ll be unhappy.” ~ Dorothy Fields

For Immediate Release
Contact:  Carol Kassie
carol@carolkassie.com / 561-445-9244

December 23, 2019

BOCA RATON, FL:  A sold-out run in January 2019, and consistent “when will you do this again?” questions have led to the creation of To Life 2: More Stories & Music Celebrating the Contributions of Jewish Composers to the Golden Age of Broadway.  This second iteration of last year’s audience favorite will pick up where the previous show left off, with more songs, anecdotes, and stories, and will highlight the works of Marvin Hamlisch, Kander & Ebb, Dorothy Fields, George & Ira Gershwin, Jerry Herman, and many more. To Life 2 will run in the Willow Theatre in Sugar Sand Park from January 10th through February 2nd.

Hy Juter (Jupiter Theater Company, LLC) will produce the show: “This is the first Willow Theatre production I have taken on myself since my partner Jerry Seltzer suddenly passed away this summer,” Juter says.  “We produced three wonderfully successful shows together (The Jazz Singer, Danny Kaye and Sylvia, and To Life) and we were working on To Life 2 literally until the day he died.   Jerry was a friend, a mensch, and one of the most decent people I have ever worked with, and we are dedicating this production to him.”

To Life 2: More Stories & Music Celebrating the Contributions of Jewish Composers to The Golden Age of Broadway will be performed by five of South Florida’s award-winning musical theatre artists:  Jeffrey Bruce, Wayne LeGette, Michael McKenzie, Amy Miller Brennan, and Mallory Newbrough.

Shari Upbin will once again helm the production, and Paul Reekie will be music director and pianist.

 

Shari Upbin

“I’m delighted to have the opportunity to direct Part 2 of To Life,” Upbin says. “These Jewish composers and stars of Broadway have shaped the form of Musical Theatre from the outset. Our audiences will be thrilled to hear South Florida’s best performing some of Broadway’s most popular songs live on stage.

“Jewish contribution to the Broadway musical has been phenomenal,” Upbin continues. “In fact, Jewish composers and lyricists created the Broadway musical. Children of immigrants, called outsiders – people who struggled for acceptance in mainstream society – created the greatest American shows in history. Show Boat, West Side Story, My Fair Lady, Fiddler on the Roof, Gypsy… and scores (pun intended!) more!”

To Life 2: More Stories & Music Celebrating the Contributions of Jewish Composers to The Golden Age of Broadway was once again created and written by Scott Siegel.  Siegel is a well-known pop culture critic who covers film, theatre, and cabaret with his wife, Barbara, writing “The Siegel Column” for TheatreMania.com, and “The Two of Clubs” column for Talkin’Broadway.com. He has created more than 400 major concerts that have been performed worldwide, written/produced/directed concerts for Michael Feinstein, and has created scores of nightclub acts that have played at major clubs around the globe. He is well known for being the creator/writer/director/host of New York City’s Town Hall Theatre’s signature series, Broadway by the Year® and Broadway Unplugged.

To Life 2 will run from January 10 through February 2 at the Willow Theatre in Sugar Sand Park.  Tickets are $40; group rates (6 or more tickets purchased in one transaction) are $35.  Tickets can be purchased online at www.sugarsandpark.org/life-2  or by phone at 561-347-3948.  The Willow Theatre is located at 300 South Military Trail, in Boca Raton’s Sugar Sand Park (33486).

For more information about To Life 2: More Stories & Music Celebrating the Contributions of Jewish Composers to The Golden Age of Broadway please contact Carol Kassie at carol@carolkassie.com / 561-445-9244.

~

Hy Juter (Jupiter Theater Company, LLC) presents
To Life 2:  More Stories & Music Celebrating the
Contributions of Jewish Composers to The Golden Age of Broadway
January 10 – February 2, 2020
Created and Written by Scott Siegel
Directed by Shari Upbin
Tickets: $40 / $35 for groups of 6 or more
For tickets:  561-347-3948 or https://sugarsandpark.org/life-2
Showtimes:
Friday & Saturday at 8 pm
Wednesday, Saturday, & Sunday at 2 pm
All performances take place in
The Willow Theatre at Sugar Sand Park
300 South Military Trail,
Boca Raton, FL 33486
https://sugarsandpark.org/life-2

About The Willow Theatre:
The Willow Theatre, opened in 1998, is a beautiful 155-seat proscenium theater, located inside Sugar Sand Park Community Center and allows for a unique experience for theatre patrons. Before or after a show, you may wander the nature trails, visit the Children’s Science Explorium, look at the art exhibit on display, or picnic at one of our pavilions.

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December & January at MIZNER PARK CULTURAL CENTER

19 Thursday Dec 2019

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December and January at
Mizner Park Cultural Center:

Franco Corso & Murat Turan: A Night of Passion
Aces & Knaves: A Film About Bridge
Tovah is Leona
Jeff Norris
The Secret Comedy of Women 

For Immediate Release
Contact:  Carol Kassie
carol@carolkassie.com / 561-445-9244

December 19, 2019

BOCA RATON, FL:  Mizner Park Cultural Center is quickly becoming one of South Florida’s ‘go to’ spots for an exciting and eclectic mix of theatre, music, comedy, and even film. The venue, well-located in Boca Raton’s Mizner Park, will play host a wide variety of entertainment in December and January, hosting Broadway’s Tovah Feldshuh in a brand new Broadway-bound musical, comedian Jeff Norris, a film about bridge, an evening of romantic music, and the delightful interactive Secret Comedy of Women.  Numerous other performances will take place as well.

On December 28th Italian tenor Franco Corso will team up with Gypsy Flamenco Guitarist Murat Turan to perform in A Night of Passion – From Bocelli to The Gypsy Kings, showcasing a fusion of Lakatos’ flamenco and Spanish guitar styles with Corso’s versatile voice that ranges from baritone to tenor.

Aces & Knaves – A Film About Bridge will be screened for one night only, on December 29th.  A fascinating documentary about the game of bridge, directed by Jackie Paré, the film zooms in on the players, the scandals, and the intense competition inside the world of bridge.  Featuring interviews with some of the world’s best players, including aspiring ace Bill Gates.

From January 8th – 10th, six-time Tony and Emmy nominated star Tovah Feldshuh will star in the South Florida premiere of Tovah is Leona, a musical production featuring highlights from the new Broadway-bound musical Queen of Mean, based on Piers Ransdell’s New York Times best-selling biography of Leona Helmsley.  (Please note, this show is completely sold out.)

Las Vegas and Atlantic City favorite, comedian Jeff Norris (January 24th) has been called one of the most quick-witted acts working today.  Hardly pausing for breath, he tears through his material – keeping audiences alert and in stitches from beginning to end.

The Secret Comedy of Women will run from January 15th through February 23rd.  A laugh-out-loud immersive theatrical celebration that exuberantly triumphs over the challenges of womanhood, this two-woman show liberates the female experience through a rollicking spectacle of sweetly sharp comedy, songs, dances, and stories.  From boys to bras, and pantyhose to menopause, The Secret Comedy of Women “inspires many laughs and ‘ahhs’ of recognition” (Charlotte Observer).

Tickets to each of these performances, as well as many other Mizner Park Cultural Center performances are on sale now and can be purchased online at http://miznerparkculturalcenter.com or by phone at 844-672-2849. Ticket details are below.

The Mizner Park Cultural Center is located at
201 Plaza Real,
Boca Raton, FL 33432
Website:  miznerparkculturalcenter.com
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For more information about the Mizner Park Cultural Center, and any of these shows, please contact Carol Kassie at Carol@CarolKassie.com / 561-445-9244.

Ticket prices and performance times are below.

Franco Corso & Murat Turan: A Night of Passion
Saturday, December 28, at 7:30 pm
Tickets:  $35

Aces & Knaves: A Film About Bridge
Sunday, December 29 at 7: pm
Tickets: $20

Tovah is Leona – January 8 – 10
Sold Out

Jeff Norris
Friday, January 24 at 7:30
Tickets:  $34 – $39

The Secret Comedy of Women – January 15 – February 23
January 15 – February 23
Tickets: $45-$65
(Group rates – 12 or more – are also available –  call 888-264-1788)
Performance Schedule:
Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday, & Sunday at 2:30 pm
Thursday, Friday, and Saturday at 7:30 pm

For tickets to all shows, and more information:  http://miznerparkculturalcenter.com/

 

THE 2020 SPANISH RIVER CONCERT SERIES Will Honor the Legacy of Founder Florrie Morgenstern

02 Monday Dec 2019

Posted by in Clients, Spanish River Concerts

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The 2020 Spanish River Concert Series
Will Honor the Legacy of Founder
Florrie Morgenstern

For Immediate Release
Contact:  Carol Kassie
carol@carolkassie.com / 561-445-9244 or
Jeffrey Morgenstern, Executive Director
Spanish River Concerts
978-502-3549

December 2, 2019

BOCA RATON, FL:  Florrie Morgenstern, the founder and creative director, and driving force behind the Spanish River Concert Series passed away this summer.  However, she left a legacy that has benefited South Florida residents for 18 years, and this year’s concert series will celebrate the woman whose love of all types of music – classical, soul, contemporary, folk, or traditional – drove her to create an entity (originally known as Community Performing Arts) that would bring the music she loved to the her Florida community.  Florrie, along with her husband Seymour, grew the concerts from an original audience of 1,500 to their current subscriber list of over 10,000 music lovers.

Florrie’s son Jeffrey took over the day to day operations of what had grown to be a full-time job, several years ago, and he and Spanish River Concerts Musical Director Tomer Adaddi recently totally reconceived the series 2020 season, based on the idea of paying tribute to his mother and her vision by showcasing her best ideas through a mix of Spanish River Concerts’ proudest moments, combined with some exciting new program ideas that were in the works. “The artists who knew my mother offered an emotional outpouring of support and a sincere desire to take part in our effort to honor Florrie’s commitment to the arts,” he said recently.

The four concerts in the Spanish River Concerts 2020 series are:

Synco Romantico Goes to Hollywood:  Series favorite Synco Romantico returns to perform music from some of Hollywood’s greatest movies.  Adi Cohen and Marc Devigne, a duo whose magical chemistry has thrilled audiences in the past, will perform classics by all the greats from Garland to Gaga, Streisand to Sinatra, and many more, all powered by beautiful arrangements and Synco Romantico’s Latin-inspired, high-energy vibe.

Elegant Elvis and Simon’s Diamonds: Paul Simon’s groundbreaking album was named for Elvis Presley’s famous homestead, and this concert will capture the best of both of these larger-than-life artists.  Featuring a full orchestra and a narrator who will explore the musical lexicon of both these musical geniuses, the concert will star Nicole Kaplan and Nashville’s Brennin Hunt, who will perform some of the most memorable music of our time.

Jerusalem Tenors: With passport stamps from all over Europe, Asia, and North America, tenors Yevgeni Shapovalov, Feliz Livshitz, and Vladislav Gorai will be joined by baritone Alexander Gounko for an evening of opera and popular favorites.  These three performances celebrate the anniversary of Spanish River Concerts’ first production created in collaboration with Musical Director Tomer Adaddi, which took place in 2014.

The Women of Spanish River:  Florrie Morgenstern’s final programming idea was to bring together the most dynamic female vocalists from Spanish River Concerts’ storied history.  Lital Gabai (70 Years in the Promised Land) Betty Lipska (Kol Esperanza) Emily West (American Rustic), and Brook Wood (50 Years of Rock & Roll) will share their musical gifts and memories of Florrie in a loving musical tribute.

Special Event:
Four Best Men:  One of the highest audience-rated concerts in the series’ history starred David Burnham, Marc Devigne, Daniel Montenegro, and Omer Shaish.  All four will return to the Spanish River Concert stage to perform everything from opera to Broadway to Rock in an unforgettable musical event.

The 2020 Spanish River Concert Series subscription prices range from $159 – $269; subscription tickets are on sale now. The special event/Four Best Men concert tickets are sold separately and are also on sale.

All concerts will take place at the Spanish River Church, at 2400 Yamato Road in Boca Raton (33431).   Subscriptions can be purchased online at www.spanishriverconcerts.org or by phone at 1-800-716-6975.

For more information about the Spanish River Concerts and Florrie Morgenstern please visit www.spanishriverconcerts.org/ or contact Carol Kassie at Carol@CarolKassie.com / 561-445-9244.

~

Spanish River Concert Subscription Series:
Ticket Prices $159 – $269

Synco Romantico Goes to Hollywood
January 5, 6, & 7 at 8 pm

Elegant Elvis and Simon’s Diamonds
January 26, 27, & 28 at 8 pm

Jerusalem Tenors
February 23, 24, & 25 at 8 pm

The Women of Spanish River
March 22, 23, & 24 at 8 pm

Special Event:
Four Best Men
February 10 & 11 at 8 pm
Tickets; $49-$84

The Tony Award-Winning Musical ONCE Opens at the LPAC December 5th

25 Monday Nov 2019

Posted by in Lauderhill Performing Arts Center

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Apex Touring and Broadway at the LPAC
present
Once
December 5th – 22nd

“…Once uses song and dance in a way I’ve never experienced in an American musical…: to convey a beautiful shimmer of might-have-been regret.”
Ben Brantley – The New York Times

For Immediate Release
Contact:  Carol Kassie
carol@carolkassie.com / 561-445-9244

November 25, 2019

LAUDERHILL, FL:   Once, the winner of eight 2012 Tony Awards including Best Musical, and winner of the 2013 Grammy Award for Best Musical Theater Album, will open at the Lauderhill Performing Arts Center (LPAC) on December 5th and run through December 22nd. The musical is based on the 2007 Academy Award-winning film of the same name, which was written and directed by John Carney, and starred Glen Hansard and Markéta Irglová, with original music and lyrics by Mr. Hansard and Ms. Irglová.  (The multiple award-winning Once has also won Grammy and Olivier awards.)

Featuring an impressive ensemble of actor/musicians who play their own instruments onstage, Once tells the enchanting tale of a Dublin street musician who’s about to give up on his dream when an intriguing young woman takes a sudden interest in his haunting love songs. As the chemistry between them grows, his music soars to powerful new heights, but their unlikely connection turns out to be deeper and more complex than your everyday romance. Emotionally captivating and theatrically breathtaking, Once is an unforgettable story about pursuing your dreams… not living in fear… and the power of music to connect us all.

This Apex Touring production will include a pre-show onstage bar atmosphere wherein the performers play a variety of traditional Irish and Czech tunes each night, and audience members will be invited to join them on stage with their drinks and interact with the musicians.

J. Michael Zygo

Michael Zygo, who performed in the Broadway production as the Emcee, will recreate the original staging and movement by John Tiffany and Steven Hoggett. As an original Broadway and Off-Broadway cast member, he feels a special attachment to the incredible work realized by the original cast and creative team. Mr. Zygo’s recent credits include Director of Once at Pittsburgh CLO and Music Director / Associate Choreographer of Once at The Fulton Theatre / Virginia Repertory Theatre. He was also featured on the Grammy Award winning cast album of Once. Other acting credits include Broadway runs of School Of Rock; and Off-Broadway credits include Once (NYTW) as well as tours of Rock Of Ages – First National, The Wedding Singer, Bridges of Madison County – first National, Annie – 30th Anniversary tour, and Oklahoma! – first National.

Jack Gerhard

Mariah Lotz

The Once cast is headed by Jack Gerhard as Guy and Mariah Lotz as Girl. Jack is a recent graduate of Rider University with a BFA in Musical Theatre. Previous regional credits include Jesus in Jesus Christ Superstar at the Tibbits Opera House in Coldwater, Michigan. Mariah is also a graduate of Rider University and has premiered numerous new shows in New York and was part of the Rising Star program at Fifth Avenue Theatre. The ensemble includes Todd Aulwurm (Bank Manager/Cello), Carrie Lyn Brandon (Swing), Carlos Castillo (Andrej/Guitar/Electric Bass/Ukulele), Trevor Lindley Craft (Švec/Mandolin/Guitar/Drums Set/Banjo), Richard Daniel (Da/Mandolin), Elleon Dobias (Ex- Girlfriend Violin), Emily Gregonis (Réza/Violin), Caleb Hartsfield (Emcee/Guitar), Jody Alan Lee (Swing), Sam Saint Ours (Swing), Jon Patrick Penick (Billy/Guitar/Percussion), Marta Rymer (Swing/Movement Captain), Matthew Staley (Eamon/Guitar/Piano/Cajon) and Tracy Thomas (Baruška/Accordion/Concertina/Musical Supervisor).

The production features scenic and costume design by Tony Award-winner Bob Crowley (Aida, An American in Paris, Carousel, Mary Poppins) with additional designs by BroadwayWorld winner Evan Adamson (Mamma Mia), lighting design by Russell A. Thompson (international tour of The Wizard of Oz, US tours Million Dollar Quartet, Fiddler on the Roof) and sound design by David Temby (Clearwing Productions/national tours of Memphis and Cabaret).

Once will run from December 5th – December 22nd. Ticket prices range from $35 – $55 and are available online at lpacfl.com/or by calling 954-777-2055.  Performances are on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday at 7:30 pm, and Wednesday, Saturday, and Sunday at 2 pm.

The Lauderhill Performing Arts Center (LPAC) has hosted numerous theatrical events and productions since it opened its doors in January 2016 and has grown its audiences to include theatre patrons from not only Broward County, but Miami/Dade and Palm Beach counties as well. The theatre is located at 3800 NW 11th Place (33311), in the Central Broward Regional Park on the Northeast corner of Sunrise Boulevard and State Road 7.  For more information about LPAC visit lpacfl.com.

For more information about Once please contact Carol Kassie at carol@carolkassie.com / 561-445-9244. For more tour and cast information visit www.OncetheMusicalTour.com

~

Once
December 5 – 22, 2019
Book by Enda Walsh
Music and Lyrics by Glen Hansard & Markéta Irglová
Based on the motion picture written and directed by John Carney
Tickets:  954-777-2055 / lpacfl.com/
Performances:  Thursday, Friday, & Saturday at 7:30 pm
Wednesday, Saturday & Sunday at 2 pm
Tickets:  $35 – $55
All performances at
The Lauderhill Performing Arts Center (LPAC)
3800 NW 11th Place
Lauderhill, FL 33311
lpacfl.com/

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MY SON THE WAITER: A JEWISH TRAGEDY at the Michael-Ann Russell JCC – Dec 19-Jan 12

21 Thursday Nov 2019

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Back by Popular Demand!
My Son the Waiter:  A Jewish Tragedy
at
Michael-Ann Russell JCC
December 19, 2019 – January 12,2020

Actor/Comedian Brad Zimmerman’s hilarious and inspiring story
about the grit and passion required to ‘make it’ as an artist and the sweet rewards that come from never giving up on your dream. 

For Immediate Release
Contact:
Carol Kassie
561-445-9244 / Carol@CarolKassie.com  

November 21, 2019

AVENTURA, FL:  Brad Zimmerman will bring his hit New York Comedy back to South Florida this season in his highly praised autobiographical comedy, My Son the Waiter:  A Jewish Tragedy.  Zimmerman’s hilarious and poignant story is universal in its message:  The journey to follow one’s dream… and the parents who SUFFER through it! The show will run from December 19th through January 12th in the Alan and Diane Lieberman Theater at the Michael-Ann Russell JCC in Aventura.

My Son the Waiter:  A Jewish Tragedy is the story of Zimmerman’s struggle to fulfill his dream and ‘make it’ as a comedic actor in New York.  One-part standup, one-part theatrical, and all parts uproarious My Son the Waiter:  A Jewish Tragedy has garnered rave reviews wherever it has played.

“My Son the Waiter: A Jewish Tragedy is now in its sixth year of a national tour,” Zimmerman says. “We’ve been all over the country – in cities such as New York, Boston, Philadelphia, Chicago, LA, Minneapolis, and Toronto. It doesn’t matter where the show plays – audiences all seem to find my story authentic and real… and funny! There is new material and old material and the positive audience response allows and enables me to keep it as fresh as the day I wrote it.

“So many fan letters and marriage proposals over the years,” he continues with a grin. “It’s amazing that I’m still very much single. But my mom in Boca is as proud as she could be of me and the show, and of course every time I visit, I get another 15 minutes of material!

Zimmerman’s mother has finally adapted to her ‘actor-waiter’ son’s career choice and financial situation: “If all goes well, I think Brad is going to buy a bookcase,” she boasts to her friends.

Brad Zimmerman has paid his dues.  He spent 29 years “temporarily” waiting tables in New York, all the while chasing a career in acting and comedy.  In My Son the Waiter: A Jewish Tragedy, he delves into the trials and tribulations of waiting on tables – particularly for someone not exactly invested in that career, and with little tolerance for persnickety diners. And he tells stories about his pursuit of his passion, along with tales about his childhood, his family, and his misbegotten love life with warmth, wit, self-deprecating humor, and wicked charm, combining his years of training as an actor with his innate comedic talent.

Zimmerman’s perseverance and hard work eventually did pay off, and he went on to act – he had a small part in “The Sopranos” playing Johnny Sack’s lawyer – and to become the opening act for a number of well-known entertainers, including George Carlin, Brad Garrett, Dennis Miller, Julio Iglesias, and Joan Rivers who said “I’ve had three great opening acts in my lifetime:  Billy Crystal, Garry Shandling, and Brad Zimmerman.”

My Son the Waiter: A Jewish Tragedy will run from December 19 to January 12 in the Alan and Diane Lieberman Theater at the Michael-Ann Russell JCC in Miami.  Tickets are on sale now and are available online at MySonTheWaiter.com or by phone at 1-855-448-7469. For group rates (12 +) call 1-888-264-1788.  Tickets for My Son the Waiter: A Jewish Tragedy range from $45 – $70.

For more information about My Son the Waiter: A Jewish Tragedy please visit mysonthewaiter.com or contact Carol Kassie at 561-445-9244 / Carol@CarolKassie.com.

In the attached photo:  Brad Zimmerman (Photo credit: Carol Kassie)
More photos can be downloaded from https://mysonthewaiter.com/media.htm

~

My Son the Waiter:  A Jewish Tragedy
By Brad Zimmerman
December 19, 2019 – January 12, 2020
Tickets:  $45 – $70
Phone:  1-855-448-7469
On Line: https://mysonthewaiter.com/
Group Rates (12 +):  1–888-264-1788
Showtimes:
Thursday & Saturday at 8 pm
Thursday, Saturday, & Sunday at 3 pm
Sunday at 7 pm
Michael-Ann Russell JCC
(Alan and Diane Lieberman Theater)
18900 NE 25th Ave
Miami, FL 33180
mysonthewaiter.com
Like Us on Facebook!

Praise for My Son the Waiter: A Jewish Tragedy:

“Delicious! Distinctly original… powerfully poignant.” “Great Comedy!” ~ The New York Times

“A Must See. It’s Hysterical, Heartfelt, Timely and Poignant. I cried, I laughed, I forgot where I parked.” ~ Brad Garrett (Everybody Loves Raymond)

“Zimmerman is a funny man with funny material.” ~ Thomas Burns Scully (On Stage)

“This is easily the funniest show to hit an off-Broadway stage since ‘Old Jews Telling Jokes.’ What makes this SUPERIOR is that it isn’t just jokes. It’s a life.” ~ The Jewish Daily Forward

 “AN ABSOLUTE MUST-SEE! You’ll laugh and you’ll walk out of the theater with a lesson: If you can find something that you truly love, it gives your life meaning. ~ Palm Beach Arts Paper

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Special Thanks to TooJay’s Deli, Polo Club, Boca Raton, Florida

ACES & KNAVES: A FILM ABOUT BRIDGE – to Screen at the Mizner Park Cultural Center on December 29th

21 Thursday Nov 2019

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Aces & Knaves
A Film About Bridge
at
Mizner Park Cultural Center
December 29 at 7 pm

“Bridge…the most intelligent card game the wit of man has so far devised.”
~ W. Somerset Maugham

For Immediate Release
Contact:  Carol Kassie
carol@carolkassie.com / 561-445-9244

November 21, 2019

BOCA RATON, FL:  Aces & Knaves, a film that zooms in on the players, the scandals, and the intense competition inside the world of bridge will be screened on December 29th at 7 pm at the Mizner Park Cultural Center in Boca Raton.  “No doubt the best documentary on bridge ever made,” Michael Becker, a member of the American Contract Bridge League Hall of Fame said recently. Becker, along with fellow bridge champion Gavin Wolpert, will join the film’s director Jackie Paré for a Q&A following the screening.

Aces & Knaves follows the emotional story of the whistleblowers and code breakers who worked thousands of hours to expose two pairs of world-class cheaters, one from Italy and another from Israel. “Collusive cheating in bridge is our murder,” says champion bridge player Steve Weinstein. “For our game it’s as bad as it gets.”

Aspiring ace Bill Gates, along with some of the best players on the planet, share tales of exhilaration and defeat in Aces & Knaves.  The film mixes vintage stills and old movie footage with dramatic coverage of international tournaments.  It is aimed not only at not only at bridge enthusiasts, but also at those who have never picked up a hand. “Why?” asks director Paré. “Because bridge holds a mirror to the human spirit – at its best and as its worst.  And like life, it’s all about the cards you’re dealt.  You have to make the best of them.”

Tickets for the December 29th screening of Aces & Knaves are $20 and are on sale now. They can be purchased online at http://miznerparkculturalcenter.com or by phone at 844-672-2849.
The Mizner Park Cultural Center is located at 201 Plaza Real, Boca Raton, FL 33432. 
More information about Aces & Knaves can be found on the film’s website at www.acesandknavesthefilm.com/ or on Facebook at hwww.facebook.com/events/2324861804496315/

For more information about the Mizner Park Cultural Center please contact Carol Kassie at Carol@CarolKassie.com / 561-445-9244.

In the attached photo:  Bill Gates and Jackie Paré.
Photo credit: Michael Hull

Aces & Knaves: A Film About Bridge
Sunday, December 29th at 7 pm
A film by Jackie Paré
Tickets: $20
Click HERE to purchase tickets online
Or call 844-672-2849
The screening will take place at
The Mizner Park Cultural Center
201 Plaza Real (2nd Floor)
Boca Raton, FL  33432

Bill Gates & Jackie Paré


A FUNNY THING HAPPENED ON THE WAY TO THE FORUM Opens November 23rd in the Rinker Playhouse

11 Monday Nov 2019

Posted by in Clients, MNM Theatre Company

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MNM Theatre Company and the Kravis Center
co-present
A Funny Thing Happened
on the Way to the Forum
Opening November 23rd in the Rinker Playhouse
“Something familiar… Something peculiar…
Something for everyone:  A comedy tonight!”

For Immediate Release
Contact:  Carol Kassie
carol@carolkassie.com / 561-445-9244

November 12, 2019

WEST PALM BEACH, FL:  The cast and crew of A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum are deep into rehearsals and preparation for the show’s November 23rd opening.  Forum, an MNM Theatre Company co-presentation with the Kravis Center, will run in the venue’s Rinker Playhouse through December 8th.

Light, fast-paced, witty, irreverent, and completely politically incorrect, A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum is one of the funniest musicals ever written. Based on the works of the Roman playwright Plautus (254 – 184 BCE), whose comedies are the earliest Latin literary works to have survived in their entirety, the show focuses on Pseudolus, a crafty slave who 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 and is filled with cases of mistaken identity, slamming doors, and a showgirl or two. A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum allows MNM’s terrific ensemble of comedic actors to shine.

Jonathan Van Dyke

The production’s director, Jonathan Van Dyke is extremely enthusiastic about the show: “I am so enjoying taking this riotous trip to the Forum with MNM and I know this cast would make Titus Maccius Plautus proud!” he says.  “They’re all welcoming this material with open arms and are going to supply our audiences their denarius worth of hilarity!”

“This is the first musical for which Stephen Sondheim wrote both the music and the lyrics,” Paul Reekie, Forum’s musical director explains.  “Some people find Sondheim’s later works more difficult to enjoy because they are musically dissonant,  but Forum has traditional harmonies and many of the songs are eminently hummable! MNM is again proud to have an amazing six-piece band for the show.”

Johnbarry Green

“It’s a farce, effortlessly shifting the audience from humor to biting social commentary on a dime all while throwing lyrics and lines as speedily as it can,” says Johnbarry Green, who plays A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum’s Pseudolus  “It’s the reason I love the piece and why it’s so challenging.  Every moment has to be carefully constructed to walk that delicate edge, otherwise they can fail contextually.  That’s why it’s such a crowning achievement when it works.”

Along with Green as Pseudolus, the Forum cast includes Michael Scott Ross* as Hysterium, Aaron Bower as Domina, J Savage* as Hero, Terry Hardcastle* as Marcus Lycus, Troy Stanley as Senex, Sean William Davis as Miles Gloriosus, Paul Thompson as Erronius, and Meg Frost as Philia.  Other cast members include Victoria Joleen Anderson, Lauren Cluett, Alexandra Dow, Stephen Eisenwasser, Frank Francisco, Elijah Pearson-Martinez, Meredith Pughe, Ashley Rubin, and Alexandra Van Hasselt.

A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum will run from November 23 – December 8. (There will be a preview performance on November 22nd.) The production will take place in the Rinker Playhouse at the Kravis Center.   Tickets are $39 – $55 and are on sale now.  For tickets and information call 561-832-7469; online: kravis.org or mnmtheatre.org.  For group rates and sales call 561-651-4438.

MNM Theatre Company attained not-for-profit 501(c)(3) status in 2018. They are an award- winning theatre company based in the Raymond F. Kravis Center for the Performing Arts. For more information about MNM Theatre Company please visit mnmtheatre.org or contact Carol Kassie at Carol@CarolKassie.com / 561-445-9244.

*Appearing through the courtesy of Actors’ Equity Association, the Union of Professional Actors and Stage Managers in the United States.

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A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum
November 23 – December 8
(Preview performance November 22 at 7:30)
Book by Burt Shevelove and Larry Gelbart
Music and Lyrics by Stephen Sondheim
For Tickets: mnmtheatre.org / kravis.org / 561-832-7469
Performances:
Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, & Saturday at 7:30 pm (no Thanksgiving night performance)
Wednesday, Saturday & Sunday at 1:30 pm
Tickets:  $39 – $55
All performances in
Rinker Playhouse at the Kravis Center
701 Okeechobee Blvd.
West Palm Beach, FL 33401
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About the Raymond F. Kravis Center for the Performing Arts:        
The Kravis Center is a not-for-profit performing arts center located at 701 Okeechobee Blvd. in West Palm Beach, FL. The Center’s mission is to enhance the quality of life in Palm Beach County by presenting a diverse schedule of national and international artists and companies of the highest quality, by offering comprehensive arts education programs – serving approximately 2.5 million schoolchildren since its inception; by providing a Palm Beach County home for local and regional arts organizations to showcase their work; and by providing an economic catalyst and community leadership in West Palm Beach, supporting efforts to increase travel and tourism to Palm Beach County. To enhance and elevate the customer experience, the Center has embarked upon a $50 million capital campaign to support a campus redesign and facility expansion that will create a more accessible, comfortable and pedestrian-friendly venue for the community. Aptly named Kravis 2020: The Future is Now, this campaign is at the heart of the Kravis Center’s vision for the future. For information, please visit kravis.org or call the Box Office at 561.832.7469.

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Children’s Auditions for KINKY BOOTS & BEAUTY AND THE BEAST – November 16th at LPAC

03 Sunday Nov 2019

Posted by in Clients, Lauderhill Performing Arts Center

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Lauderhill Performing Arts Center (LPAC) and
Broadway Palm Dinner Theatre
Announce Local Children’s Auditions for
Broadway At The LPAC
Roles Available for Kinky Boots & Beauty and The Beast 

For Immediate Release
Contact:  Carol Kassie
carol@carolkassie.com / 561-445-9244

November 3, 2019
LAUDERHILL, FL: Lauderhill Performing Arts Center, in collaboration with Broadway Palm Dinner Theatre located in Fort Myers, FL, is holding open auditions for children for their upcoming productions from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, November 16, 2019 from. Auditions will be held at LPAC. All auditions are by appointment only and can be made by emailing Brian Enzman at  Brian@BroadwayPalm.com.   Auditions will be held at Lauderhill Performing Arts Center (LPAC) at 3800 NW 11th Place, Lauderhill

The following are the roles that are available:

Kinky Boots (At LPAC)
Rehearsals January 11, 12, 17 and 18, 2020 in Fort Myers at Broadway Palm
Tech January 20 – 23, 2020 at LPAC in Lauderhill
The production runs from January 23 – February 9, 2020 at LPAC.
Roles of:
Young Charlie – a seven-year old boy who is lost, quiet, and reflective.
Young Lola – a ten-year old African American boy who already knows he is destined to wear high heels.
Both actors must be 5 feet tall and under and must be able to sing and act well.

Beauty and the Beast (At LPAC)
Rehearsals February 6 – 16, 2020 at LPAC
Tech February 17 – 19, 2020 at LPAC
The production runs February 20 – March 8, 2020
Roles of:
Chip -male – seven to ten years old.
Ensemble Girl – seven to ten years old.
Both actors must be 5 feet tall and under and must be able to sing and act well.

All youth actors must be local to the Lauderhill area

Anyone auditioning should be prepared to sing “Be Our Guest” from Beauty and the Beast and read from the script. Audition sides are available at https://lpacfl.com/, or can be picked up at the LPAC box office window. Please bring two current headshots and a resume. Those auditioning MUST audition with these sides and music that is provided.

Lauderhill Performing Arts Center (LPAC) is a professional theatre and 4 complimentary tickets will be provided as payment for their performances in all shows. The role will be double cast and children will alternate performances. Performances at Lauderhill Performing Arts Center are Wednesday through Saturday evenings at 7:30 p.m. with matinees on Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday at 2:00 p.m. Anyone interested must be available for the rehearsal process and all alternated, assigned performances.

November 2019 Shows at Mizner Park Cultural Center

31 Thursday Oct 2019

Posted by in Clients, Mizner Park Cultural Arts Center

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There is Something for Everyone in
November at
Mizner Park Cultural Center

Thunder From Down Under – November 6
Men Are From Mars, Women Are From Venus – November 8 – 10
Icons: The Art of Celebrity Illusion – November 15
Dame Edna in Something Like a Dame – November – 23 – 24

For Immediate Release
Contact:  Carol Kassie
carol@carolkassie.com / 561-445-9244

October 31, 2019

BOCA RATON, FL:  The Mizner Park Cultural Center will play host to an eclectic selection of theatrical, musical, and event entertainment in November.  From the Off-Broadway hit Men Are From Mars, Women Are From Venus to the Icons: The Art of Celebrity Illusion, and the sparkling comedy of Michael Walters as Dame Edna in Something Like A Dame to the sexy and seductive Thunder From Down Under, the popular Boca Raton venue can definitely boast they are providing ‘something for everyone’ this month.

On November 6th at 8 pm the internationally acclaimed Thunder From Down Under will demonstrate why they have been called Australia’s hottest export when they take to the Center’s stage, ready to show off their cheeky humor, boy-next-door charm, and energetic dance routines… not to mention their chiseled physiques.  A perfect show for a ‘girl’s night out’!

Men Are From Mars, Women Are From Venus-Live! will run at the Center from November 8th – 10th.  Performed by Amadeo Fusca, this one-man fusion of theatre and stand-up is a light-hearted theatrical comedy based on the New York Times #1 best-selling book by John Gray.  Moving swiftly through a series of vignettes, the show covers everything from dating and marriage to the bedroom.

On Friday, November 15th at 8 pm South Florida’s top Female Impersonators will transform into music’s legendary icons when the Mizner Park Cultural Center presents Icons: The Art of Celebrity Illusion.  Drag super-star Nicole Halliwell will host a journey filled with glamour, fabulous costumes, and unforgettable hits starring ‘Cher’, ‘Bette Midler’, ‘Barbra Streisand’, ‘Whitney Houston’, ‘Celine Dion’, ‘Judy Garland’, ‘Liza Minelli’, and more.

Carbonell Award-winning actor/singer/comedian Michael Walters will star in Something Like a Dame, a Broadway music and comedy ‘Extravaganza’ on November 23rd and 24th.  With the blessing of Barry Humphries, Dame Edna’s original creator, Walters will ‘don the ‘wisteria coif’ for an evening of glamour, music, and side-splitting laughter featuring incredible glittering gowns, outrageous comedy, and original musical numbers.

Tickets to each of these performances, as well as a number of other Mizner Park Cultural Center November performances are on sale now and can be purchased online at http://miznerparkculturalcenter.com or by phone at 844-672-2849. Ticket prices and performance details are below.

The Mizner Park Cultural Center is located at 201 Plaza Real, Boca Raton, FL 33432.

For more information about the Mizner Park Cultural Center, and any of these shows, please contact Carol Kassie at Carol@CarolKassie.com / 561-445-9244.

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Click HERE for tickets to all events or call 844-672-2849.

Thunder From Down Under
Wednesday, November 6, at 8 pm
Tickets:  $49
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Men Are From Mars, Women Are From Venus – Live!
November 8 – 10
Performances:
November 8 & 9 at 8 pm
November 9 at 4 pm
November 10 at 2 pm
Tickets:  $50
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Icons: The Art of Celebrity Illusion
Friday, November 15, at 8 pm
Tickets:  $29
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Something Like a Dame: Michael Walters as Dame Edna
November 23 & 24
Performances:
Saturday, November 23 at 7:30 pm
Sunday, November 24 at 2 pm
Tickets:  $34 – $39

Thunder From Down Under

Michael Walters as Dame Edna in ‘Something Like a Dame’