Tag Archives: Musical Theatre

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

25 Monday Nov 2019

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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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Sol Children Theatre presents LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS October 4 – 20

16 Monday Sep 2019

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Sol Children Theatre
presents

Little Shop of Horrors

 

October 4 – 20

 “I’m a mean green mother from outer space and I’m BAD!!”
Audrey II – Little Shop of Horrors

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

September 16, 2019

BOCA RATON, FL:  A deviously delicious Broadway horror comedy rock sci-fi musical, Little Shop of Horrors has devoured the hearts of theatre-goers for over 30 years.  Sol Children Theatre will present this beloved cult classic, created by Howard Ashman and Alan Menken (Disney’s The Little Mermaid, Beauty and the Beast, and Aladdin), from October 4th through October 20th at Sol Theatre in Boca Raton.  The production will feature a roster of talented young actors and Sol Troupe members.

Meek floral assistant Seymour Krelborn stumbles across a new breed of plant he names “Audrey II” – after his coworker crush. This R&B-singing carnivore promises unending fame and fortune to the down and out Krelborn as long as he keeps feeding it…blood. Over time, though, Seymour discovers Audrey II’s out of this world origins and intent towards global domination!

Sarah Elizabeth Grant

“Halloween is right around the corner, and whether it be evil clowns or alien plants, we’re all secretly craving a story that has us checking to see what is lodging in the darkness,” says Sol Producer Sara Elizabeth Grant.  “This iconic musical gives us that perfect dose of horror.  Too scary?  Don’t worry!  It’s paired with fun and unforgettable songs, giant puppets, and some remarkable comic relief!  Little Shop of Horrors is a timeless piece of theatre – enjoyable for everyone.  This wonderful cast of young theatre artists is not only bringing this show to life, but they are embracing every aspect of it.  We are also so fortunate to have Murphy Hayes voice the role of Audrey II… So between the Direction of Courtney Poston, performances from the phenomenal students of Sol Children Theatre and Murphy Hayes, plus some awesome puppets, this is one show you certainly don’t want to miss!”

Courtney Poston

“Little Shop of Horrors is a heart-warming musical comedy parody of all those wonderful 1960s B-horror films,” says Director Courtney Poston. “It follows the harried lives of the residents down on Skid Row, and the lengths they’ll go to make a better life for themselves. Who hasn’t been there, am I right? Oh, and there’s a talking, man-eating plant from an alien planet! Just in time for the Halloween season, come get a little scared, laugh it off, “but whatever you do don’t feed the plants”!”

Poston’s Little Shop of Horrors cast includes Niko Zontini as Seymour, Mia Salerno as Audrey, Murphy Hayes as Audrey II, Luke Nappe as Orin, and Celia Roberts as Mrs. Mushnick.  Other cast members include Ava Cavasos, Jaclyn Cohen, Ella Rose Giner, Kylie Lawrence, Maureen Tracy, Eden Wexler, Kimmy Wilkinson, and Sofia Zontini,

Boca Raton’s Sol Children Theatre is a not-for-profit theatre organization founded by veteran director and actor Rosalie Grant twenty years ago.  The company’s mission is to provide children with a safe, secure, and highly professional theatre experience.  Those children then in turn provide quality theatre experiences for audiences.

Tickets for Little Shop of Horrors are on sale now and can be purchased online at www.solchildren.org or by calling 561-447-8829.  Tickets are $20; $15 for children aged 11 or younger. Group rates are available. Sol Children Theatre is located at 3333 North Federal Highway in Boca Raton (33431).

For more information about Sol Children Theatre, visit www.solchildren.org. To speak with someone involved in the production, or to arrange to attend a performance, please contact contact Carol Kassie at 561-445-9244 / carol@carolkassie.com

~

Little Shop of Horrors
October 4 – 20
Book by Howard Ashman
Music by Alan Menken
Lyrics by Howard Ashman
Based on the film by Roger Corman, screenplay by Charles Griffith
For tickets: www.solchildren.org / 561-447-8829
Direct ticketing link:  https://tinyurl.com/yalf43yt
Tickets:  $20 /$15 for juniors (11 & under)
Performances:
Friday at 7 & Saturday at 7 pm
Saturday & Sunday at 2 pm
All performances will take place at
Sol Theatre
3333 N Federal Highway
Boca Raton, FL 33431
www.solchildren.org
Like Us on Facebook!

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Sol Children Theatre presents PETER AND THE STARCATCHER & ROALD DAHL’S MATILDA THE MUSICAL

02 Tuesday Jul 2019

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Summertime Magic at Sol
Sol Children Theatre
presents
Peter and the Starcatcher &
Roald Dahl’s Matilda the Musical

“To enter a theatre for a performance is to be inducted into a magical space, to be ushered into the sacred arena of the imagination.”  Simon Callow

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

July 2, 2019
BOCA RATON, FL:  If you’re looking for magical, imaginative, family-friendly theatre this summer, look no farther than Boca Raton! Sol Children Theatre will present Peter and the Starcatcher and Roald Dahl’s Matilda The Musical in repertory style from July 12th through August 4th.  Both productions will star the talented young actors who are participating in the company’s Summer Repertory Theatre program.

“It started out as an exciting notion, doing Summer Repertory, and then it developed into feasible programming,” Sol Producer Sara Elizabeth Grant explains. “Two shows sharing a black box theatre isn’t easy, but it certainly presents an incredible opportunity for theatre magic to take place. And what better shows than to choose ones that revolve around magic! We’re so fortunate to have the directing and production team that we have on board, not to mention our exceptional two casts of young theatre artists. Watching these shows evolve is truly magical.”

The Tony Award-winning Peter and the Starcatcher upends the century-old story of how a miserable orphan comes to be The Boy Who Would Not Grow Up (a.k.a. Peter Pan).  From marauding pirates and jungle tyrants to unwilling comrades and unlikely heroes, Peter and the Starcatcher playfully explores the depths of greed and despair, and the bonds of duty, friendship, and love.

Starcatcher’s cast includes Andrew Salmore, Austin Stein, Ava Cavasos, Calvin Zanetti, Hartlynn Ackerman, Kayla Asuoty, Megan Mascaro, Samantha Mascaro, and Tyler Wartmann. The production will be directed by Seth Trucks.

“I am beyond thrilled to be returning to Sol Children as a director for the third time,” Trucks says.  “Given that we are presenting Peter and the Starcatcher I am especially excited to be working with such a talented and experienced cast of young actors. The open-ended nature of the stage directions in this play have allowed us to use their considerable imaginations to build the images and stage magic. The result is an original and authentic version of this beautiful play.”

Inspired by the genius of Roald Dahl, the multiple award-winning Matilda the Musical is a captivating masterpiece from the Royal Shakespeare Company that revels in the anarchy of childhood, the power of imagination, and the inspiring story of a girl who dreams of a better life.

Angela Thomas will direct Angelique Petersen, Brayden Wartmann, Eden Wexler, Hadrian Schrag, Jailee Dejean, Kimmy Wilkinson, Kylie Lawrence, Maureen Tracy, Maleah Dejean, Mia Salerno, Nisa Guvenilir, Saheli Khan, Samantha Mascaro, and Sofia Soleil Zontini in Matilda.

“As a director I have always enjoyed bringing stories to life onstage,” Thomas says.  “And with Matilda The Musical – a story about children, their perception of the world and circumstances around them, and the power of imagination and kindness, I am presented with the beautiful opportunity to bring Roald Dahl’s book, turned movie, turned stage musical to life with the young performers of Sol Children Theatre.”

Boca Raton’s Sol Children Theatre is a not-for-profit theatre organization founded by veteran director and actor Rosalie Grant seventeen years ago.  The company’s mission is to provide children with a safe, secure, and highly professional theatre experience.  Those children in then in turn provide quality theatre experiences for audiences.

Tickets for both productions are on sale now and can be purchased online at www.solchildren.org or by calling 561-447-8829.  Tickets are $20; $15 for children aged 11 or younger. Sol Children Theatre is located at 3333 North Federal Highway in Boca Raton (33431).

For more information about Sol Children Theatre, visit www.solchildren.org, or contact Carol Kassie at 561-445-9244 / carol@carolkassie.com

~

Peter and the Starcatcher
July 12 – 14; July 26 – 28
By Rick Elice
Based on  the Novel by Dave Barry and Ridley Pearson
Music by Wayne Barker
Directed by Seth Trucks
Performances:
Fridays & Saturdays at 7 pm
Saturdays and Sundays at 2 pm
For tickets: www.solchildren.org or call 561-447-8829
Tickets:  $20 (Adults) & $15 (Juniors – 11 and under)
All performances will take place at
Sol Theatre
3333 North Federal Highway
Boca Raton, FL 33431

Roald Dahl’s Matilda The Musical
July 19 – 21; August 2 – 4
Book by Dennis Kelly
Based on the book by Roald Dahl
Music and lyrics by Tim Minchin
Directed by Angela Thomas
Performances:
Fridays & Saturdays at 7 pm
Saturdays and Sundays at 2 pm
For tickets: www.solchildren.org or call 561-447-8829
Tickets:  $20 (Adults) & $15 (Juniors – 11 and under)
All performances will take place at
Sol Theatre
3333 North Federal Highway
Boca Raton, FL 33431

www.solchildren.org
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BOCA BOUND: A NEW MUSICAL – Premieres at the Wick Theatre ~ September 19 – 22

18 Tuesday Jun 2019

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White Ibis Productions
presents
Boca Bound: A New Musical
September 19 – 22

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

June 18, 2019

BOCA RATON, FL:   The premiere performances of Boca Bound:  A New Musical will take place at The Wick Theatre in Boca Raton from September 19 – 22.  The show, with a book by Bonnie Logan and music and lyrics by Richard Peshkin, both of whom are residents of Boca Raton, Florida, is being produced by White Ibis Productions.

Bonnie Logan was immobilized and recuperating from a bad fall when she was visited by her good friends Karen and Richard Peshkin. Richard, a retired physician with a deep musical background, suggested she needed ‘intellectual stimulation’, and proposed she write a story – “You decide what it’s going to be about. Here are a couple of songs I wrote, think of them as inspiration, I’ll be back in a few days,” she recalls him saying.

“Karen and I knew Bonnie as a friend,” Peshkin says, “And we were aware she has a great sense of humor. Little did we know that she has great writing skills and a strong ear for dialogue.”

“I wrote all the time,” Logan explains.  “For work, but never for the theatre.  And other than being the first person to tell a story, any story, about anything, I never thought writing for theatre, let alone musical theatre, was in my future… not even for a second!”

The result of this almost accidental collaboration is Boca Bound: A New Musical.

Both Logan and Peshkin learned that developing a musical takes work, work, and more work.  The show was workshopped, re-written, and re-imagined countless times:

“I found that many of the lessons I learned from athletics apply here,” Peshkin says.  “You must learn to be a team player, and very open at all times.  Musically, I learned that writing lyrics within the framework of a story is much easier than trying to start from scratch without a particular theme. Thus, I wrote each song’s lyrics first before adding the melody. In the past, it was random.”

“And I learned very quickly that I didn’t need 20 years of experience to write a meaningful and honest story,” Logan says. “You can learn the technical skills necessary if you’re passionate and not afraid to work hard (and we worked very hard!).  And special people can always be found to help you learn what you need.  What I discovered was what I really needed, I already had … a lifetime of stories to tell.”

Boca Bound tells the story of Nadine, a successful New York Attorney. But life has a way of throwing curve-balls, and when a significant change occurs in her well-ordered life, she must learn to adapt – and to reassess.   A trip to Boca Raton,  re-connections with friends and family, and the possibility of a future she had often dreamed of but never believed could happen lead Nadine on a journey of discovery – about the choices she has made and those she can still make in order to find fulfillment and happiness.

Michael J. Moritz, Jr, recent recipient of a 2019 Tony Award as a co-producer of Broadway’s Hadestown, will serve as the production’s Music Supervisor/Vocal Arranger, and Chad Larabee will direct the production.

Boca Bound will run from September 19 – 22 at The Wick Theatre in Boca Raton.  Tickets are $50 – $55 and are available by phone at 561-995-2333 or online at www.bocaboundmusical.com or www.thewick.org.

A portion of the proceeds from Boca Bound ticket sales will be donated to The Pap Corps*.

For more information about Boca Bound please visit www.bocaboundmusical.com or contact Carol Kassie at 561-445-9244 / Carol@CarolKassie.com.

~

Boca Bound: A New Musical
September 19 – 22
Book by Bonnie Logan
Music and Lyrics by Richard Peshkin
Tickets: $50 – $55
Performances:
Thursday, Friday, Saturday, & Sunday at 7:30 pm
Saturday & Sunday at 2 pm
To purchase tickets: www.thewick.org or www.bocaboundmusical.com
Or call 561-995-2333
All performances will take place at
The Wick Theatre
7901 North Federal Highway,
Boca Raton, FL  33487
www.bocaboundmusical.com
Like Us on Facebook!

~

*Since its founding in 1952, The Pap Corps has donated more than $110 million to Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, including a historic $50 million pledge in 2016. The Pap Corps derives its name from Dr. George Papanicolaou, a pioneer in cytopathology and early cancer detection, who introduced the world to the revolutionary ‘Pap’ test. A small group of women began the organization to support his efforts, and over the decades it has grown into an organization of over 22,000 men and women, in over 50 chapters, who raise funds to support research for all types of cancers.

~

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MY ONE AND ONLY – THE GERSHWIN MUSICAL – Opens at Stage Door Theatre on March 8th

25 Monday Feb 2019

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Stage Door Theatre
presents
My One and Only
The Gershwin Musical

March 8 – 24

“My One and Only is a Crazy Big, Tap-Happy Musical…”
Gail M. Burns and Larry Murray – Berkshire on Stage

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


February 25, 2019:

LAUDERHILL, FL:   The timeless music of George and Ira Gershwin plus an aviator, a Channel swimmer, exuberant dance numbers, sparkling costumes, romance, comedy, and America in 1927 equals My One and Only, Stage Door Theatre’s upcoming production at the Lauderhill Performing Arts Center (LPAC). The show will open on March 8th and run through March 24th.

Created to showcase the Gershwins’ marvelous music, My One and Only ran for two years on Broadway and won 6 Tony Awards and 3 Drama Desk Awards.

The plot is classic musical comedy:  Captain Billy Buck Chandler, a barnstorming aviator, falls for Edythe Herbert, a former English Channel swimmer and the star of Prince Nicolai Erraclyovitch Tchatchavadze’s International Aquacade. Billy, who plans to be the first man to fly solo across the Atlantic Ocean, hopes to win Edythe’s hand by taking a crash course in sophistication at Mr. Magix’ Tonsorial and Sartorial Emporial. Billy’s wisecracking female mechanic, Mickey, adds a bit of sass as a series of escapades and misadventures keep the potential lovers from finding happiness.

Jonathan Van Dyke

Jonathan Van Dyke will direct the production: “My One and Only is the all singing, all dancing, all hilarity Gershwin musical comedy and it’s such a thrill to be able to present it with Broward Stage Door Theatre,” he says.  It was a giant hit in the early 1980’s with Tommy Tune and Twiggy and we have assembled a spectacular cast and creative team to tap this gem into the Lauderhill PAC. The song list is a treasure, and this feel good musical will have everyone “Kicking’ The Clouds Away”!”

Along with “Kicking the Clouds Away”, My One and Only features such Gershwin classics as “I Can’t Be Bothered Now”, “’S Wonderful”, “Strike Up the Band”, “Funny Face”, “Nice Work If You Can Get It”, and of course, “My One and Only”.

Van Dyke’s cast includes Derek Seay, who will play Billy Buck Chandler and Caiti Marlowe, who will ‘channel’ Edythe Herbert. Also cast are Larry Buzzeo as Prince Nikke, Colleen Pagano as Mickey, Michael Small as Reverend Montgomery, and Ben Bagby as Mr. Magix.  Bagby was in the original Broadway production of My One and Only.

Ben Bagby

“The year was 1983 and I had just gotten my Actors Equity card from a contract with DreamGirls,” Bagby reminisced recently. “I began going to Equity auditions for Cats, My One and Only, and other shows running on Broadway at the time. The night before I opened in My One and Only, I was offered a spot in the Broadway cast of Cats. Of course, I declined but it was nice to be asked.

“I went into the My One and Only cast in August ’83 as a replacement. This means I didn’t get to appear on the Tony Awards, but I did get to record the Original Cast Album (thus my Original Cast status).

“In 2013, I was invited and attended the 30 year MOAO Cast Reunion in NYC (on my birthday) where I was able to catch up with cast members I had not seen or spoken to in 30 years.

“This will be my first time performing in any production of My One and Only since performing in it on Broadway 36 years ago,” He continued. “I’ve always wanted to play Mr. Magix so I’m absolutely thrilled I will have the chance to with the Broward Stage Door at the LPAC. Charles “Honi” Coles, the Original Mr. Magix, was my friend and has forever influenced the way I tap dance. I’m happy to be presenting his original timeless choreography in this role.”

Other cast members are Raymond Bennett, Kaitlyn Casanova, Amanda Eisele, Alexandra Garcia, Luis Gomez, Melissa Jones, Aaron Kenisberg, Ellen Kilgo, T.J. Lamando, Dequan Mitchell, Samantha O’Donnell, Sarah Rose, Ashley Rubin, and Nicholas Winterowd.

David Taustine will serve as the production’s Musical Director and Danny Durr is My One and Only’s Choreographer. Set Design is by Johnny Blessed, Sound Design is by King Raymonvil, and Costume Design is by Lenora Nikitin.  The production’s Stage Manager is Nancy Clay.

My One and Only will run from March 8 – 24 at the Lauderhill Performing Arts Center (LPAC). The theatre is located at 3800 NW 11th Place, Lauderhill (33311), in the Central Broward Regional Park on the North East corner of Sunrise Boulevard and 441 (State Road 7).

Tickets for My One and Only range from $48 to $58. (LPAC charges a $5 service fee per ticket, however if a package of four Stage Door shows is purchased the service fees will be waived.) Group rates are available, as are student prices (with valid ID). Tickets may be purchased by calling the box office at 954-344-7765 or 954-777-2055 (LPAC) or on line at www.stagedoorfl.org or on the LPAC website at https://lpacfl.com.

For more information about My One and Only and/or Stage Door Theatre, please visit www.stagedoorfl.org, or contact Derelle Bunn Executive Producer/Artistic Director, at DerelleBunn@yahoo.com / 954-344-7765 or Carol Kassie (carol@carolkassie.com / 561-445-9244).

~

My One and Only
March 8 – 24, 2019
Music and Lyrics by George Gershwin and Ira Gershwin
Book by Peter Stone and Timothy S. Mayer
Tickets:  $48 – $58
Tickets:  954-344-7765 / www.stagedoorfl.org
Showtimes:
Wednesday, Saturday, & Sunday at 2 pm,
Friday & Saturday at 8 pm
All performances take place at
The Lauderhill Performing Arts Center (LPAC)
3800 NW 11th Place
Lauderhill, FL 33311

www.stagedoorfl.org/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stagedoorfla/
Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/stagedoortheatre/
Twitter:  https://twitter.com/stagedoorfla

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TO LIFE: STORIES & MUSIC CELEBRATING THE CONTRIBUTIONS OF JEWISH COMPOSERS TO THE GOLDEN AGE OF BROADWAY – Jan 18 – Feb at the Willow Theatre

27 Thursday Dec 2018

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Black Box Booking & Hy Juter
Present

To Life: Stories & Music Celebrating the Contributions of Jewish Composers to The Golden Age of Broadway

January 18 – February 3, 2019

 “Musicals are plays, but the last collaborator is your audience, so you’ve got to wait ’til the last collaborator comes in before you can complete the collaboration.” 
~ Stephen Sondheim

“I think it is just as important to sing about beautiful mornings as it is to talk about slums. I just couldn’t write anything without hope in it.”
~ Oscar Hammerstein”

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

December 27, 2018
BOCA RATON, FL:  From Irving Berlin to Leonard Bernstein, and from Rodgers and Hammerstein to Stephen Sondheim, not to mention Fanny Brice, Zero Mostel, Jerry Orbach, and Barbra Streisand, Jewish composers and artists have contributed tremendously to Broadway.   Black Box Booking and Hy Juter will present To Life: Stories & Music Celebrating the Contributions of Jewish Composers to The Golden Age of Broadway at the Willow Theatre in Sugar Sand Park from January 18th through February 3rd.

To Life: Stories & Music Celebrating the Contributions of Jewish Composers to The Golden Age of Broadway is chock full of fascinating narrative and charming anecdotes about some of the greatest Broadway artists of the 20th and 21st century.  The production features five of South Florida’s top actor singers:  Jeffrey Bruce, Broadway’s Jodie Langel, two-time Carbonell Award-winner Wayne LeGette, Alix Paige, and Carbonell Award-winner Mark Sanders.

Producers Jerry Seltzer of Black Box Booking and Hy Juter have tapped Shari Upbin to direct the show, and Paul Reekie to handle To Life’s musical direction.

“Jewish contribution to the Broadway musical has been phenomenal,” Upbin says. “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!

“Growing up in a household where my mother was a singer and my dad a writer for Jack Benny, I learned musical theatre songs early, and created dances for my parents to enjoy,” she continues. “I was encouraged by their enthusiasm for a good song, a good joke. Yes, my parents spoke Yiddish when they did not want me to understand what they were saying… but I always felt the warmth of the light in their eyes. I dedicate all the Jewish one-liners and the amazing songs heard in this show to my parents and grandparents. Immigrants who found their place in America urging me to continue their legacy. Tradition!”

To Life: Stories & Music Celebrating the Contributions of Jewish Composers to The Golden Age of Broadway was 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 300 major concerts that have been performed worldwide, he has written/produced/directed concerts for Michael Feinstein, and has created scores of nightclub acts that have played at major clubs around the globe. However, he is perhaps best known as the creator/writer/director/host of New York City’s Town Hall Theatre’s signature series, Broadway by the Year® and Broadway Unplugged.

Nicole Stav is the production’s Stage Manager, and Jason Pierre will serve as Assistant Stage Manager.  Technical crew includes Laura Fulton (Lighting) and Andrés Alessandro Beuses Casasanta (Sound).

To Life will run from January 18 through February 3 at the Willow Theatre in Sugar Sand Park.  Tickets are $35; group rates (6 or more tickets purchased in one transaction) are $30.  Tickets can be purchased on line at www.willowtheatre.org 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: 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.  To learn more about Black Box Booking please visit www.blackboxbooking.com, and for more information about Hy Juter please contact jupitertheater@yahoo.com.

To Life:  Stories & Music Celebrating the Contributions of Jewish Composers to The Golden Age of Broadway
January 18 – February 3, 2019
Created and Written by Scott Siegel
Directed by Shari Upbin
Tickets: $35 / $30 for groups of 6 or more
For tickets:  561-347-3948 or www.willowtheatre.org
Showtimes:
Friday & Saturday at 8 pm
Wednesday, Saturday, & Sunday at 2 pm
All performances take place at
The Willow Theatre at Sugar Sand Park
300 South Military Trail,
Boca Raton, FL 33486
www.willowtheatre.org

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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Stage Door Theatre presents THE WIZ December 7 – December 31

29 Thursday Nov 2018

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Stage Door Theatre
presents
The Wiz
December 7 – December 31
at Lauderhill Performing Arts Center (LPAC)

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


November 29, 2018:

LAUDERHILL, FL:  Stage Door Theatre’s third production in their new home is an exuberant journey down the yellow brick road! Based the L. Frank Baum’s classic “The Wonderful Wizard of Oz”, The Wiz is a dazzling mix of rock, gospel, and soul music, and told in the context of African American Culture.    The family friendly musical will open at the Lauderhill Performing Arts Center (LPAC) on December 7th and run through December 31st.

The winner of seven Tony Awards, including Best Musical, and Five Drama Desk Awards, The Wiz retells Baum’s tale of Dorothy, who is transported by a tornado to a world of Munchkins, witches, and magic.  On her way to the Emerald City to meet the Wizard of Oz, who she believes can help her get back to Kansas, she encounters the Scarecrow, the Tin Man, and the Cowardly Lion – friends who help her battle the Wicked Witch of the West – and eventually learn that there really is ‘no place like home’.

The Wiz will be directed and choreographed by Lloyd Culbreath who brings years of theatrical experience to the production.  He has performed on Broadway, and on tour for over 25 years as a dancer, singer, actor, teacher, dance captain, stage manager, and assistant and associate choreographer.

“Working on The Wiz is such a joy!” says Culbreath. “Soulful, sassy, and brimming with joy! The show is such a wonderful combination of amazing memorable songs, spectacular dancing and armfuls of heart and love. It offers something for everyone. I’m thrilled to spend this time in the land of Oz!”

Cast in The Wiz are Nayomi Braaf as Dorothy, Kedrick D. Faulk as Scarecrow, Ben Bagby as Tin Man, Darius J. Manuel as Lion, Kyaunnee Richardson as Aunt Em/Glinda, Arlene Coutee as Addaperle, and Jamari Johnson Williams as The Wiz. 2017 Carbonell Award-winner (Best Actress, Musical) Sarah Gracel will play Evelline. Also in the cast are Michael Baugh, Kolten Bell, Alexander Domingue, Cameron Jackson, Kimberly Mhoon, Johanna Moise, Alicia Nicole, Mickey Nixon, Amy Romero, Andre Russell, Johanna Taylor, and Shanna Woods.

David Nagy will serve as the production’s Musical Director and keyboard 1; he will be accompanied by Karen Nagy on keyboard 2,  Andrea Gilbert on woodwind, Sandy Poltarack on bass and Guitar, Brian Sayre on drums, and Rupert Ziawinski on Bass.  Marissa Calabrese is The Wiz’ Associate Director. Scenic Design is by Randall Parsons, Lighting Design is by Kirk Bookman, and Sound Design is by Rushnay Henry.  The production’s Stage Manager is Nancy Clay.

The Wiz will run from December 7 – December 31 at the Lauderhill Performing Arts Center (LPAC). The theatre is located at 3800 NW 11th Place, Lauderhill (33311), in the Central Broward Regional Park on the North East corner of Sunrise Boulevard and 441 (State Road 7).

Tickets for The Wiz range from $48 to $58. (LPAC charges a $5 service fee per ticket, however if a package of four Stage Door shows is purchased the service fees will be waived.) Group rates are available, as are student prices (with valid ID). Tickets may be purchased by calling the box office at 954-344-7765 or on line at www.stagedoorfl.org or on the LPAC website at https://lpacfl.com.

For more information about The Wiz and/or Stage Door Theatre, please visit http://www.stagedoorfl.org, or contact Derelle Bunn Executive Producer/Artistic Director, at DerelleBunn@yahoo.com / 954-344-7765 or Carol Kassie (carol@carolkassie.com / 561-445-9244).

Production photos by David Martinek

~

The Wiz
December 7 – 31
Music and Lyrics by Charlie Smalls
Book by William F. Brown
Based on “The Wonderful Wizard of Oz” by L. Frank Baum
Tickets:  $48 – $58
Tickets:  954-344-7765 / www.stagedoorfl.org
Showtimes:
Wednesday, Saturday, & Sunday at 2 pm,
Friday & Saturday at 8 pm
All performances take place at
The Lauderhill Performing Arts Center (LPAC)
3800 NW 11th Place
Lauderhill, FL 33311
www.stagedoorfl.org
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LA CAGE AUX FOLLES at Stage Door Theatre – August 31 – September 23

06 Monday Aug 2018

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Stage Door Theatre
presents
La Cage Aux Folles
August 31 – September 23
at their new venue
Lauderhill Performing Arts Center (LPAC)

“We are what we are, and what we are is an illusion.”
La Cage Aux Folles

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


August 7, 2018:

LAUDERHILL, FL:  Stage Door Theatre’s first production at Lauderhill Performing Arts Center (LPAC), their brand new, state-of-the-art home, will be the multiple Tony Award-winning La Cage Aux Folles.   The production will open on August 31st and run through September 23rd.   (The theatre will celebrate the move to their new home at a Gala Party on September 1st – details to be announced.)

After twenty years of un-wedded bliss, Georges and Albin, two men partnered for better-or-worse experience a bit of both when Georges’ son (fathered during a one-night fling) announces his impending marriage to the daughter of a bigoted, right-wing politician.  Further complicating the situation is the ‘family business’: Albin and Georges run a drag nightclub in St. Tropez, where Albin is the ‘star’ performer, ZaZa.

The musical, based on the French play by Jean Poiret, was adapted for the stage by Broadway royalty – Harvey Fierstein wrote the book, and Jerry Herman provided the music and lyrics.  The original production received nine Tony nominations, and won six, including Best Musical, Best Score, and Best Book.  It is the first musical to win the Tony Award for Best Revival of a Musical twice.

Carbonell nominee (as both actor and director) Bruce Linser will direct the production: “I see this show as somewhat of a period piece,” Linser explains. “It is set in the 70s, a time when gay people and drag queens were still fighting to come out of the shadows. This story of a young straight man forcing his parents to change themselves and their lives so drastically – or these two gay men being willing to suffer that humiliation so willingly – would seem ridiculous or even downright hateful today. Not that gay people aren’t still marginalized. With lawsuits around gay wedding cakes and “religious freedom” laws, there is definitely a culture of fear and hatred for the LGBT community, and there are looming signs of it being allowed to grow under the current administration in Washington DC. So in a way this production of this show at this time is a bit of a warning. “Those who forget the past are doomed to repeat it”, as they say. We need to remember where we’ve been, so we can prevent ourselves from going there again in the future. And that’s for all of us – gay and straight alike. What we need right now is empathy and understanding for each other, and what better way to explore that than through the joy and thoughtfulness that is musical theatre?

“To that end, we are following much more of the style of the most recent revival of the show,” he continues.  “Harvey Fierstein, who wrote the book to La Cage, has said that the original production, while glamorous and beautiful, wasn’t really “right” for the world of the play. It was glitzed and glittered up for Broadway, in large part to make it palatable and acceptable for the Broadway audience at the time. And it worked – it’s a beloved, Tony-winning show, gay relationships now enjoy widespread support and acceptance, and drag queens have their own TV shows! Which is why we can now take that shiny veneer off of the show, at least a little bit, so we can explore more of the darker truth that the original movie and show were revealing. Don’t get me wrong – there will still be gorgeous costumes and fabulous dance numbers. It’s a musical, after all! But we’re also looking for the heart and soul underneath all of that … the fear and love that drives these people to be who they are and do what they do. The humanity of these characters and their relationships. That, to me, makes for interesting, powerful, and entertaining theatre.”

Linser has assembled a top-notch cast to populate the Riviera town of St. Tropez:  Larry Buzzeo will play Albin/ZaZa, and Jamie Parnell will play Georges.  2017 Carbonell Award-winner Elijah Word will play Jacob, and Connor Delves will play Jean-Michel.  Dalia Aleman and James Skiba, who recently starred in Stage Door’s production of Victor/Victoria will also be featured. Other cast members include 2017 Carbonell nominee Kat Gold, Alexandra Van Hasselt, JR Coley, Rebeca Diaz, Sean Davis, Nicole Kinzel, Kevin Lozano, Courtney Poston, Dyllan Vallier, Stephen Hohendorf, Korey Harlow, Jonathan Eisele, Johanna Moise, and Cat Pagano.

Paul Reekie will serve as the production’s Musical Director; Choreography is by Danny Durr, and the show’s Assistant Choreographer is Jenny Hegarty.  Scenic Design is by Michael McLain; Lighting Design is by Ardean Landhuis; Sound Design is by King Raymonvil; and Costumes are by Jerry Sturdevant.  The production’s Stage Manager is Nancy Clay.

La Cage Aux Folles will run from August 31 to September 24 at Stage Door Theatre’s new location, the Lauderhill Performing Arts Center (LPAC). The theatre is located at 3800 NW 11th Place, Lauderhill (33311), in the Central Broward Regional Park on the North East corner of Sunrise Boulevard and 441 (State Road 7).

Tickets for La Cage Aux Folles (and for all Stage Door productions) will remain at $48. (LPAC will charge $5 service fee per ticket, however if a package of four Stage Door shows is purchased the service fees will be waived.) Group rates are available, as are student prices (with valid ID). Tickets may be purchased by calling the box office at 954-344-7765 or on line at www.stagedoorfl.org or on the LPAC website at https://lpacfl.com.

For more information about La Cage Aux Folles and/or Stage Door Theatre, please visit www.stagedoorfl.org, or contact Derelle Bunn Executive Producer/Artistic Director, at DerelleBunn@yahoo.com / 954-344-7765 or Carol Kassie (carol@carolkassie.com / 561-445-9244).

La Cage Aux Folles
August 31 – September 23, 2018
Book by Harvey Fierstein
Music and Lyrics by Jerry Herman
Based on the play by Jean Poiret
Tickets:  $48 ($53 with s/c)
Tickets:  954-344-7765 / www.stagedoorfl.org
Showtimes:
Wednesday, Saturday, & Sunday at 2 pm,
Friday & Saturday at 8 pm
All performances take place at
The Lauderhill Performing Arts Center (LPAC)
3800 NW 11th Place
Lauderhill, FL 33311
(Central Broward Regional Park – NE corner of Sunrise Blvd. and 441)
www.stagedoorfl.org
Like Us on Facebook!

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Lightning Bolt Productions presents Stephen Sondheim’s INTO THE WOODS – June 8 – 17

16 Wednesday May 2018

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Lightning Bolt Productions
presentsStephen Sondheim’s
Into the Woods
June 8 – June 17

What happens after ‘happily every after’?

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

May 16, 2018
BOCA RATON, FL:   Into the Woods, the multi-award-winning (Tony Awards, Drama Desk Awards, Olivier Awards) musical by Stephen Sondheim and James Lapine, skillfully interweaves several classic fairy tales into one epic story that shows what happens when things get real in the fairy-tale world. Lightning Bolt Productions upcoming production of this acclaimed Broadway musical will run at the West Boca Performing Arts Center at West Boca High School* from June 8th through 17th. 

Sondheim and Lapine’s tale involves a baker and his wife who, unable to have the children they so badly desire, agree to complete a number of “errands” for a witch who promises to grant them their wish if they’re successful. During their journey, they encounter Little Red Riding Hood, Rapunzel, Cinderella and Jack (of Beanstalk notoriety) – each of whom has their own wish. All the storybook characters discover that wishes granted often come with a hefty price.

Jessie Hoffman, Lightning Bolt’s founder and Artistic Director, who recently directed the young company’s well received production of Young Frankenstein, will once again take on dual duties for the production –  as the show’s director, as well as the role of Cinderella:

Jessie Hoffman

“I was introduced to Into the Woods back in middle school,” Hoffman explains. “As part of our assignment for musical theater class to learn the job of a stage manager, we had to watch the professional video with the original Broadway cast, and correctly call the show for the entire opening number. The show instantly fascinated me; seeing just the opening number wasn’t enough, and so I found a copy of the video and watched the whole thing. I ended up watching that video a million times. I had every role memorized.

“I quickly noticed (as is the case with many shows by Stephen Sondheim) that when it came to Into the Woods people either loved it or hated it, there was no in-between. I could never understand why. It was such a beautiful show with an incredible message and an engaging story. How could anyone listen to those lyrics, hear the meaning behind them, and not love this musical? Years later, when I was 18, I was fortunate enough to be cast in Into the Woods as Little Red – it was an amazing experience.

“Over the years, I’ve continued to see other productions done by various theater companies, and it’s always done so well, but it’s always done the same way”, Hoffman says. “I had never seen the show looked at from another perspective until I stumbled across some clips from a production done in Regent’s Park back in 2010 and it opened my eyes to the show in a whole new way. This production was so different, so unique, modernized yet true to what the show has always been. The heart of it was still there, but it was new and exciting.

“Seeing clips from that production inspired me and brought back the love I’ve always had for this show in an entirely new way,” she continues. “I decided in that moment I was going to put on a production of Into the Woods that was closer to that version, while making it my own and adding my own heart to it. My goal is for people who have seen the show as many times as I have to see it in an entirely new light, and for people who have never seen the show before to fall in love with it the same way I did when I was 12 years old.

“This show literally has a character for everyone, someone each person in that audience can find themselves in and relate to. Sure, it’s a story about a bunch of fairy tale characters with magical powers and beanstalks to climb but if anything, these characters are more real than any you’d find in any other musical.

“Everyone has their own “wolf” that crosses their path at some point in their life. Everyone dreams of things that aren’t quite what they thought they’d be once that wish actually comes true and realizes that maybe something in-between their life before that wish and their life after is what will truly bring them happiness. Everyone experiences loss, but everyone also learns that truly, no one is alone… even if you feel like you are. Everyone has that moment in their life where they learn that “nice” is different than “good” and sometimes things aren’t always what they seem, and sometimes people aren’t always what they seem, but these are all just lessons that help you the next time life sends you into the woods. It’s not what you go through in life that shapes who you are, it’s how you choose handle it, it’s realizing there truly is “more to learn of what you know”, and finding the courage inside yourself to always be ready for the next journey. I hope that through my direction of this show, each audience member can find their moment in the woods that they connect to.”

Along with Hoffman as Cinderella, Lightning Bolt’s Into the Woods cast includes Giustino Garcia (The Narrator), Renee Elizabeth Turner (The Witch), Maxwell Miller (The Baker), Savannah Marino (The Baker’s Wife), Sarah Rose Knoche (Little Red Riding Hood), Aaron Bravo (Cinderella’s Prince/Wolf), Murphy Hayes (The Mysterious Man), Elijah R. Pearson-Martinez (Jack), Jessica McFadden (Jack’s Mother),Joel Iglesia (Rapunzel’s Prince), Irma Gloria (Rapunzel/Cinderella’s Mother); Myria Jean Baum (Stepmother/Granny), Victoria Kuhns (Florinda), Shannon Motherwell (Lucinda), and Sven Ballarte (The Steward).

Phil Hinton will provide Musical Direction for Into the Woods, and Michael Biggs will serve as the show’s Choreographer and Stage Manager.  Assistant Stage Manager (and House Manager) is Cheryl Crout; Sound Design is by Traci Watkins, Costume and Prop Design is by Myria Jean Baum.  Set Design is by Jessie Hoffman; Set Construction is by Mike Versetti, and Tech is by Jonathan Cabrera and the West Boca Performing Arts Tech Crew. Lance Blank is the Theatre Manager.

Tickets for Into the Woods are on sale now and can be purchased on line at www.lbptheatre.com or by phone at 561-886-8286.  Tickets are $35; student tickets ($20 with valid ID) are also available.

For more information about Jessie Hoffman, Lightning Bolt Productions, and/or Into the Woods, please contact Carol Kassie at Carol@CarolKassie.com / 561-445-9244.

~

Into the Woods
Book by James Lapine
Music and Lyrics by Stephen Sondheim
June 8 – June 17
Tickets:  $35
Students/Seniors (with valid ID) $20
For tickets:  www.lbptheatre.com / 561-886-8286
Performances:
Friday, June 8 at 7 pm
Saturday, June 9 at 7 pm
Sunday, June 10 at 2 pm
Friday, June 15 at 7 pm
Saturday, June 16 at 7 pm
Sunday, June 17 at 2 pm

All performances at
West Boca Performing Arts Center at West Boca High School
12811 Glades Road
Boca Raton, FL  33498
www.lbptheatre.com
Like Us on Facebook!

*Disclaimer: Lightning Bolt Productions (“LBP”) is not affiliated with or endorsed by the School Board of Palm Beach County or West Boca High School (“WBHS”) and the events/activities hosted by Lightning Bolt Productions on West Boca High School’s premises pursuant to a lease agreement shall not be construed as being conducted, funded, hosted, or sponsored by the School Board or West Boca High School on behalf of Lightning Bolt Productions.  The School Board and West Boca High School undertake no responsibility for supervising or monitoring Lightning Bolt Productions’ events/activities and will not be liable for any and all actions of Lightning Bolt Productions on West Boca High School’s premises.

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Lightning Bolt Productions presents YOUNG FRANKENSTEIN – THE MEL BROOKS MUSICAL – April 13 – 22

05 Thursday Apr 2018

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Lightning Bolt Productions
presents
Young Frankenstein – The Mel Brooks Musical
April 13 – 22

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

April 5, 2018

BOCA RATON, FL:  Lightning Bolt Productions’ Young Frankenstein – The Mel Brooks Musical will open at the West Boca Performing Arts Center at West Boca High School* on April 13th, and run through April 22nd.

A wickedly inspired re-imagining of the Frankenstein legend, Mel Brooks’ comedy masterpiece follows bright young Dr. Frankenstein (that’s Fronkensteen!) as he attempts to complete his grandfather’s masterwork and bring a corpse to life. Together with his oddly shaped and endearing helper Igor (that’s Eye-gor), his curvaceous lab assistant Inga, and in spite of his incredibly self-involved madcap fiancé Elizabeth, Frankenstein succeeds in creating a monster — but not without scary and quite often hilarious complications.

Young Frankenstein was Mel Brooks’ follow-up to his hit musical The Producers, and audience reaction to the production was consistently positive, much to his delight: “I love what they do,” Brooks said in an interview shortly after the show opened. “The audience knows Young Frankenstein the movie; they didn’t know The Producers. They all neigh when anyone on stage says “Frau Blucher”. And they can’t wait for the Blind Hermit to spill the hot soup on the monster’s lap. It’s great to see the audience play ping-pong with the actors.”

Jessie Hoffman

Lightning Bolt founder, and the show’s director Jessie Hoffman has drawn upon a special piece of the film’s history to inspire and inform her directorial choices: “I think it’s safe to say that everyone has a special place in their heart for Gene Wilder,” she explains. “Throughout the filming process of Young Frankenstein he and Mel Brooks only had one disagreement, which would probably shock most fans of the movie. Mel Brooks strongly disliked Wilder’s idea to include a scene where Fredrick Frankenstein performed “Puttin’ On The Ritz” with the monster. Of course, once the scene was done, Brooks admitted that he’d been wrong and stated that it was the best thing in the movie.

“As a director, it’s my job to find the difficult balance of staying true to what the piece is meant to be, while making it my own,” she continues. “Because of this, Young Frankenstein might very well be the most difficult show I’ve ever directed, but also, the most rewarding. If I can learn anything from this production, it’s to trust my instincts, my ideas, and myself no matter what others say. To trust my humor and my creativity, because if Gene hadn’t trusted his, one of the most beloved, hilarious, and iconic moments of this film wouldn’t exist. It’s truly amazing how something that can bring such laughter, joy, and amusement to so many people can also teach such an important life lesson, and I’m truly grateful to Gene Wilder for helping me learn that.”

Nicole Stav

Lightning Bolt has enlisted Nicole Stav to help shepherd the fledgling theatre company’s show onto the stage – she will serve as the production’s Stage Manager, and has designed many aspects of the show including the Set, Lighting, Costume, and Props: “I’m truly excited to be able to blend my passion for theatre with my skills in business management,” she says. “It’s not very often that we get to do what we love, but when you do, it never really feels like work. Spearheading this new production company has been rewarding in so many ways, and the relationships we’re forming within the South Florida Theatre Industry are invaluable, to say the very least. Managing such a large cast while simultaneously taking care of props, costumes, lighting design, and set design has been challenging; however, I feel that the hard work we’ve put in will be so obvious once everyone sees the show!”

Young Frankenstein cast members include Max Miller (Frederick Frankenstein), Jonathan Cabrera (Igor), Jessie Hoffman (Inga), Josh Nelson (The Creature), Eileen Flanagan Parente (Frau Blucher), Taryn Bagdasarian (Elizabeth), Larry Bresslerr (Inspector Kemp), and Murphy Hayes (The Hermit, etc.).  Also cast are Michael Reizburg, Ravelle Miller, Victoria Kuhns, Angela Moormann-Davis, Valerie Bressler, Aaron Bravo, and Christian Matthiesen.

The show’s Musical Director is Angela Moormann-Davis; Choreography is by Taryn Bagdasarian.

Tickets for Young Frankenstein – The Mel Brooks Musical are on sale now and can be purchased on line at www.lbptheatre.com or by phone at 561-886-8286.  Tickets are $35.  Group rates (6 or more tickets purchased in one transaction) are $28, and student tickets ($20 with valid ID) are also available.

For more information about Jessie Hoffman, Lightning Bolt Productions, and/or Young Frankenstein, please contact Carol Kassie at Carol@CarolKassie.com / 561-445-9244.

~

Young Frankenstein – The Mel Brooks Musical
Book by Mel Brooks
Music and Lyrics by Mel Brooks
Book by Thomas Meehan
April 13 – 22
Tickets: $35 (Student & Group Rates available)
For Tickets:  www.lbptheatre.com / 561-886-8286
Performance Schedule:
Friday and Saturday at 7 pm
Saturday and Sunday at 2 pm

All performances at
West Boca Performing Arts Center at West Boca High School
12811 Glades Road
Boca Raton, FL  33498
www.lbptheatre.com
Like Us on Facebook!

*Disclaimer: Lightning Bolt Productions (“LBP”) is not affiliated with or endorsed by the School Board of Palm Beach County or West Boca High School (“WBHS”) and the events/activities hosted by Lightning Bolt Productions on West Boca High School’s premises pursuant to a lease agreement shall not be construed as being conducted, funded, hosted, or sponsored by the School Board or West Boca High School on behalf of Lightning Bolt Productions.  The School Board and West Boca High School undertake no responsibility for supervising or monitoring Lightning Bolt Productions’ events/activities and will not be liable for any and all actions of Lightning Bolt Productions on West Boca High School’s premises.

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