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

Posted by Carol Kassie in Black Box Booking & Hy Juter, Clients

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Alan Jay Lerner, Alan Menken, Alix Paige, Arthur Laurents, Black Box Booking, Boca Raton Theatre, Frederick Loewe, George Gershwin, Harvey Fierstein, Howard Ashman, Hy Juter, Ira Gershwin, Irving Berlin, Jeffrey Bruce, Jerry Herman, Jodie Langel, Jule Styne, Leonoard Bernstein, Lorenz Hart, Mark Sanders, Musical Theatre, Oscar Hammerstein, Paul Reekie, Richard Rodgers, Shari Upbin, Sheldon Harnick, Stephen Sondheim, Wayne LeGette, Willow Theatre at Sugar Sand Park

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 18^th through February 3^rd.

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 20^th and 21^st 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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2018-2019 THEATRE & CONCERT PRODUCTION SCHEDULES

17 Friday Aug 2018

Posted by Carol Kassie in Black Box Booking & Hy Juter, Clients, Community Performing Arts, Entr'Acte Theatrix, Menopause The Musical, Playhouse Productions, Shari Upbin, Sol Children Theatre, Spanish River Concerts, The Broward Stage Door Theatre, The Theatre Arts Series at B'nai Torah

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Aventura Arts & Cultural Center, Broward Stage Door Theatre, Dirty Rotten Scoundrels, Entr'Acte Theatrix, Ghost -The Musical, La Cage Aux Folles, Lauderhill Performing Arts Center, Menopause The Musical, Mikveh, Old Jews Telling Jokes, Pigs Do Fly Productions, Playhouse Productions, Scott Siegel, Shari Upbin, Spanish River Concerts, Stage Door Theatre, The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, The Addams Family, The Ladies Foursome, The Producers, The Soul of Motor City, The Wiz, Thoroughly Modern Millie, To Life, Waist Watchers, Waist Watchers The Musical!

2018-2019 THEATRE/PRODUCTION SCHEDULES
for
Pigs Do Fly Productions
GFour Productions
Entr’Acte Theatrix
Menopause The Musical
Playhouse Productions
Black Box Booking
Shari Upbin/B’nai Torah
Stage Door Theatre
Spanish River Concerts

PIGS DO FLY PRODUCTIONS

The Ladies Foursome
By Norm Foster
October 4 – 21, 2018
Tickets: $39
Tickets: 866-811-4111 / www.pigsdoflyproductions.com
Performances:
Thursday, Friday, & Saturday: 8 pm
Sunday: 5 pm
All performances will take place at
Empire Stage
1140 N Flagler Drive,
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304
www.pigsdoflyproductions.com
Like Us on Facebook!

It’s the day after the funeral, and three women gather for a round of golf in honor of their recently departed play partner. A mysterious fourth joins them, and so begins a raucous and rowdy 18 holes filled with secrets, surprises, confessions… and sex. Directed by Genie Croft. Starring Janice Hamilton, Deborah Kondelik, Jacquie Laggy, and Elissa Solomon.

SOL CHILDREN THEATRE

The 25^th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee
October 19 – November 4
Music & Lyrics:  William Finn
Book: Rachel Sheinkin
Conceived by: Rebecca Feldman
Additional Material by: Jay Reiss
Performances:
Friday & Saturday at 7:00 pm
Saturday and Sunday at 2 pm
Tickets:  $20 / $15 juniors (11 and under)
Tickets:  561-447-8829 / www.solchildren.org/
Performances:
Friday & Saturday: 7 pm
Saturday & Sunday: 2 pm
Sol Theatre
3333 N. Federal Highway
Boca Raton, FL 33431
www.solchildren.org
like Us on Facebook!

Nominated for six Tony Awards, and winning 2, The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee on an eclectic group of sixth graders, who arrive at a fictional spelling bee set in a geographically ambiguous Putnam Valley Middle School to vie for the spelling championship of a lifetime; the Bee is run by three equally quirky grown-ups. While candidly disclosing hilarious and touching stories from their home lives, the tweens spell their way through a series of (potentially made-up) words, hoping never to hear the soul-crushing, pout-inducing, life un-affirming “ding” of the bell that signals a spelling mistake. Six spellers enter – one speller leaves! At least the losers get a juice box!

GFOUR PRODUCTIONS

Menopause The Musical
October 23 – October 28
Tickets: $46.50 – $66.50
Click HERE For Tickets or call
877-311-7469
Performances:
Tuesday, October 23 – 8 pm
Wednesday, October 24 – 8 pm
Thursday, October 25 – 8 pm
Friday, October 26 – 8 pm
Saturday October 27 – 2 pm
Saturday, October 27 – 8 pm
Sunday, October 28 – 2 pm
Sunday, October 28 – 6 pm
All performances will take place at
Aventura Arts & Cultural Center
3385 NE 188^th Street
Aventura, FL 33180
http://menopausethemusical.com/
Like Us on Facebook!

Four women at a lingerie sale with nothing in common but a black lace bra AND memory loss, hot flashes, night sweats, not enough sex, too much sex and more! This hilarious musical parody set to classic tunes from the ‘60s, ‘70s and ‘80s will have you cheering and dancing in the aisles! See what millions of women worldwide have been laughing about for 17 years! It’s the Hilarious Celebration of Women and The Change^®

ENTR’ACTE THEATRIX

The Addams Family – A New Musical
Book by Marshall Brickman
Book by Rick Elice
Music and Lyrics by Andrew Lippa
October 25 – November 4
Tickets: $35 – $45
For tickets: 561-243-7922 /
Performances:
Thurs, Oct 25th – Soft Opening: 8 pm
Fri, Oct 26th – Opening Night 8 pm
Sat, Oct 27th – 2 pm & 8 pm
Sun, Oct 28th – 2 pm
Wed, Oct 31st – Halloween Show 8 pm
Thurs, Nov 1st – 8 pm
Fri, Nov 2nd – 8 pm
Sat, Nov 3rd – 2 pm & 8 pm
Sun, Nov 4th – 2 pm
All performances will take place at
The Crest Theatre at Old School Square
51 N. Swinton Avenue
Delray Beach, FL 33444
http://entractetheatrix.org
Like Us on Facebook!

That lovable family of creepy kooks is alive and well and living in their super-spooky mansion in Central Park. The Addams family, led by the elegantly gaunt and seemingly undead Morticia and her ever-devoted husband Gomez, is in turmoil. Their daughter Wednesday, now 18, finds herself falling in love—a sensation that is unsettling for both her and her family of endearing misfits. When the teen invites her new boyfriend, Lucas Beineke, over with his “normal” family to get better acquainted with the Addams household, comic chaos (including everything from mixed-up potions to a scorching tango) ensues.

Waist Watchers The Musical!
December 14, 2018 – January 13, 2019
Book and Lyrics by Alan Jacobson
Music by Vince Di Mura
Tickets:
Phone: 305-444-9293
On line: www.waistwatchersthemusical.com
Group Sales (12 or more):305-504-5020
Show Times:
Wednesday at 2 pm & 7 pm
Thursday at 7 pm
Friday at 8 pm
Saturday at 2 pm and 8 pm
Sunday 3 pm
All performances will take place at
Actor’s Playhouse at Miracle Mile
280 Miracle Mile
Coral Gables, FL 33314
www.waistwatchersthemusical.com

This hilarious and inspirational musical comedy will leave you laughing so hard you’ll burn more calories during the show than in the past week! Come and dance in your seat, or jump right in!
Set in Cook’s Women’s Gym, Waist Watchers The Musical is a lighthearted look at four women dishing on food, diets, exercise, friendship, love, and sex!
~

PLAYHOUSE PRODUCTIONS

Old Jews Telling Jokes
January 9 – February 10, 2019
Created by Peter Gethers and Daniel Okrent
Based on the website: www.oldjewstellingjokes.com
Tickets: $45 – $65
For Tickets: 844-672-2849 / http://playhouseinfo.com/miznerpark
Group Sales: 1-888-264-1788
Performances:
Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday at 7:30 pm
Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday at 3 pm
All performances will take place at
Mizner Park Cultural Arts Center
201 Plaza Real (2^nd Floor)
Boca Raton, FL 33432
http://playhouseinfo.com/miznerpark

Old Jews Telling Jokes showcases five actors in a comedy that pays tribute to and reinvents classic jokes of the past and present. It celebrates the rich tradition of Jewish humor “and all the rabbis, complaining wives, fed-up husbands, patience-challenged physicians, gossiping ladies and competitive men” populating it. The humor can be suggestive (sometimes even raunchy) as the ‘Old Jews’ make fun of themselves as well as followers of every other religion.

BLACK BOX BOOKING

To Life – The Stories and Music of the Golden Age of Broadway
January 18 – February 3, 2019
By Scott Siegel
Tickets: $35 / $30 for groups of 6 or more
Tickets: 561-347-3948 / www.willowtheatre.org
Showtimes:
Friday, & Saturday at 8:00 pm,
Wednesday, Saturday & Sunday at 2:00 pm
All performances take place at
The Willow Theatre at Sugar Sand Park
300 S. Military Trail
Boca Raton, FL 33486
http://www.willowtheatre.org

An exciting concert event that highlights the contribution of Jewish composers and stars to Broadway. From Irving Berlin to Brock and Harnick, and from Rogers and Hammerstein to Stephen Sondheim, not to mention performers such as Fanny Brice, Barbra Streisand, Zero Mostel, and Jerry Orbach. Starring Jodie Langel, Wayne LeGette, Alix Paige, and Mark Sanders. Conceived and Written by Scott Siegel. Directed by Shari Upbin.

CULTURAL THEATRE ARTS SERIES AT B’NAI TORAH
PRODUCED AND DIRECTED BY SHARI UPBIN

Mikveh
February 27, 2019
2 pm & 7:30 pm
By Hadar Galron
Tickets: $36 / $25 congregational members (group rates)
Tickets: 561-392-8566
Performances take place at
B’nai Torah Congregation
621 SW 18^th Street
Boca Raton, FL 33433
www.bnai-torah.org

Mikveh offers a glimpse into the secretive world of the Jewish ritual bath. The intimate stories of seven women unfold in this revealing story of religious observance and evolving feminist consciousness. With humor, sincerity and tragedy, this provocative play explores the evolving position of women in this religious society. Mikveh was nominated for six Israeli Theatre Academy Awards including Best Play, Playwright, Director, and Scenery and was named the Play of the Year 2004 at Israeli Theatre Academy Awards.

STAGE DOOR THEATRE

Group and Subscriber Discounts are available for these productions
Please note that Stage Door Theatre’s production of La Cage Aux Folles will be the first in their new home – the Lauderhill Performing Arts Center (

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
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 11^th Place
Lauderhill, FL 33311
https://www.stagedoorfl.org/
https://www.facebook.com/stagedoorfla/

After twenty years of unwedded bliss, Georges and Albin, two men partnered for better-or-worse get 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.

Dirty Rotten Scoundrels
October 12 – November 4, 2018
Book by Jeffrey Lane
Music and Lyrics by David Yazbek
Tickets: $48
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 11^th Place
Lauderhill, FL 33311
https://www.stagedoorfl.org/
https://www.facebook.com/stagedoorfla/

Sophisticated, suave, and with a good dash of mischief, this hysterical comedy features a delightfully jazzy score and was nominated for eleven Tony Awards. Lawrence Jameson makes his lavish living by talking rich ladies out of their money. Freddy Benson more humbly swindles women by waking their compassion with fabricated stories about his grandmother’s failing health. A hilarious tale of cons and high jinks on the French Riviera. Based on the popular 188 MGM film.

The Wiz
December 7 – 31, 2018
Book by William F. Brown
Music and Lyrics by Charlie Smalls
Based on “The Wonderful Wizard of Oz” by L. Frank BaumTickets: $48
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 11^th Place
Lauderhill, FL 33311
https://www.stagedoorfl.org/
https://www.facebook.com/stagedoorfla/

A beloved Broadway gem, The Wiz infuses L. Frank Baum’s classic tale with a dazzling mix of rock, gospel, and soul music. This timeless tale of Dorothy’s adventures in the land of Oz is a fun, family friendly, modern musical. Winner of seven Tony Awards.

The Producers
January 18 – February 10, 2019
Book by Mel Brooks and Thomas Meehan
Music and Lyrics by Mel BrooksTickets: $48
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 11^th Place
Lauderhill, FL 33311
https://www.stagedoorfl.org/
https://www.facebook.com/stagedoorfla/

Bialystock and Bloom! Those names should strike terror and hysteria in anyone familiar with Mel Brooks’ classic cult comedy film: A down-on-his-luck Broadway producer and his mild-mannered accountant come up with a scheme to produce the most notorious flop in history, thereby bilking their backers out of millions of dollars. Only one thing goes wrong: the show is a smash hit!

My One and Only
March 1 – March 24, 2019
Book by Peter Stone and Timothy S. Mayer
Music and Lyrics by George Gershwin and Ira GershwinTickets: $48
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 11^th Place
Lauderhill, FL 33311
https://www.stagedoorfl.org/
https://www.facebook.com/stagedoorfla/

Take the heart-stopping songs “S’Wonderful”, “Funny Face”, and of course “My One and Only” from George and Ira Gershwin’s Funny Face, along with great numbers from several other Gershwin shows and joins them into a fun, frothy, and buoyant musical spoof about a barn-storming pilot, a pretty Channel swimmer, and a host of other wonderful characters.

Ghost the Musical
April 12 – May 5, 2019
Book and Lyrics by Bruce Joel Rubin
Music and Lyrics by Dave Stewart
Music and Lyrics by Glen Ballard
Tickets: $48
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 11^th Place
Lauderhill, FL 33311
https://www.stagedoorfl.org/
https://www.facebook.com/stagedoorfla/

Adapted from the hit film by its Academy Award-winning screenwriter, Bruce Joel Rubin, Ghost the Musical follows Sam and Molly, a young couple whose connection takes a shocking turn after Sam’s untimely death. Trapped between two worlds, Sam refuses to leave Molly when he learns she is in grave danger. Desperate to communicate with her, he turns to a storefront psychic, Oda May Brown, who helps him protect Molly and avenge his death.

Thoroughly Modern Millie
May 24 – June 16, 2019
New Lyrics by Dick Scanlon
New Music by Jeanine Tesori
Book by Richard Henry Morris, Dick Scanlan
Original Story and Screenplay by Richard Morris for the Universal Pictures Film
Tickets: $48
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 11^th Place
Lauderhill, FL 33311
https://www.stagedoorfl.org/
https://www.facebook.com/stagedoorfla/

Set in New York City in 1922, Thoroughly Modern Millie tells the story of young Millie Dillmount who comes to the big city from Kansas in search of a new life for herself. Filled with frisky flappers, dashing leading men, and a dragon lady of a villainess, the show is a perfectly constructed evening of madcap merriment. Winner of the 2002 Tony Award for Best Musical.

The Soul of Motor City
July 5 – July 28, 2019
Conceived, directed, and choreographed by Kevin BlackTickets: $48
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 11^th Place
Lauderhill, FL 33311
https://www.stagedoorfl.org/
https://www.facebook.com/stagedoorfla/

In the early 1960s Detroit was on the move. The distinctive sound that emerged from the city was the sound of young America. The music from that time left an indelible stamp on the heart, soul, and minds of subsequent generations. The Soul of Motor City celebrates the classics of the time by such artists as The Four Tops, Martha Reeves, Aretha Franklin, Ray Charles, The Temptations, The Supremes, and many more.

SPANISH RIVER CONCERTS

Concerts take place at Spanish River Church (2400 Yamato Road, Boca Raton, 33431) and Kings Point Theatre (7000 West Atlantic Avenue, Delray Beach, 33446). For tickets, and information: https://spanishriverconcerts.com/ or 800-716-6975. Series ticket prices: Premier: $269, Preferred: $239, Standard: $209, Value: $159.

David D’or
January 28 – February 5, 2019
Israeli superstar David D’or flaunts his 4-octave vocal range, in a magical evening of international music. D’or has 15 gold and platinum albums to his credit, and is also an accomplished painter and humanitarian, known for integrating his diverse interests into his live performances. Backed by a full orchestra, David welcomes special guest soprano Betty Lipska to the stage during this very special engagement.

American Rustic
January 7 – January 21, 2019
A concert featuring uniquely American music and instrumentation. Country and Folk music have evolved into sophisticated art forms, fostering the emergence of highly skilled instrumentalists and uniquely emotive singer-songwriters. Featuring the heartfelt lyrics and soulful harmonies of some of the most beloved Folk, Country, and Folk-Rock icons, including Peter, Paul, and Mary, Joan Baez, Bob Dylan, Arlo Guthrie, Bonnie Raitt, Crosby, Stills and Nash, and more.

Four Best Men
March 11 – March 25, 2019
By popular demand, Spanish River Concerts brings back four of the most lauded tenors we have introduced to South Florida audiences in recent years. The members of this all-star cast have individually thrilled: now the sky’s the limit as Daniel Montenegro, Marc Devigne, Omer Shaish, and David Burnham join forces to create an incredible evening of Broadway, Opera, and Popular favorites.

Vintage Reflections
February 18 – March 4, 2019
A tribute to the quirky genius of Scott Bradlee’s Postmodern Jukebox concept, featuring a collection of fabulous singers, performing in visually stunning vignettes. This performance showcases popular songs that have been re-stylized in ways that will make audiences fall in love with the music all over again.

The Concert and Theatre Arts Series at B’nai Torah & present James Sherman’s BEAU JEST – February 22

09 Thursday Feb 2017

Posted by Carol Kassie in Shari Upbin

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Beau Jest, comedy, Congregation B'nai Torah, James Sherman, Jewish Comedy, Shari Upbin, The Concert and Theatre Arts Series at B’nai Torah, Theatre in Boca Raton

The Concert and Theatre Arts Series at B’nai Torah
&
Shari Upbin
present
James Sherman’s
Beau Jest
February 22 at 7:30 pm

“Hilarious and quite moving …blending farce and genuine insight.” ~ Chicago Sun Times

“Very funny…The well-crafted play has a lot to say about nuclear families of any ethnic persuasion.” ~The Wall Street Journal

February 9, 2017

BOCA RATON, FL: The Concert and Theatre Arts Series at B’nai Torah and Producer/Director Shari Upbin will bring James Sherman’s ‘comedy with romance’, Beau Jest, to the B’nai Torah Stage for one performance only, on February 22^nd at 7:30 pm.

Sarah Goldman is a nice Jewish girl with a problem: her parents want her married – to a nice Jewish boy, of course. They’ve never met Sarah’s boyfriend, who happens to have the unfortunate name of Chris Kringle, and who doesn’t exactly fit that description, so to make them happy she invents Dr. David Steinberg – the man of their dreams. When they insist upon meeting Dr. Steinberg, Sarah contacts an escort service to provide her with a Jewish date – but instead they send her Bob Schroeder, an out of work actor who agrees to perform the impersonation. Sarah’s mother – armed with challah and lokshen kugel sets out to snare this Beau for her daughter with hilarious mix ups and consequences!

Now in its 21^st season, The Concert Series at B’nai Torah has proven to be a popular program for congregational members and non-members alike. The Theatre Series, spearheaded by Cantor Udi Spielman and Producer/Director Shari Upbin, was added three years ago.

Shari Upbin

“When Cantor Udi Spielman asked me to bring a comedy to B’nai Torah, I immediately thought of the wonderful Beau Jest by James Sherman, the author of the highly successful Door To Door – which I also directed for our Theatre Series,” Director Upbin says. “This well-crafted play has a lot to say about families of any ethnic persuasion. Coming from a family devoted to comedy – my dad was a writer for Jack Benny – it was a wonderful experience blending farce with a genuine insight into this family I knew so well.

“Jewish mothers are a tribute to society,” she continues. “I miss my own Jewish, mother but now that I have grown children of my own, I get the opportunity – over and over again – to pass down the very statements my own mother used to say to me. “So… that’s what you are wearing?” is now an anthem filled with love and familiarity. I believe our audiences will enjoy seeing the Goldman family on stage!”

Emily Freeman, who recently placed first in the National Society of Arts and Letters Musical Theatre competition will play Sarah Goldman. Roy Lynam, Christopher Mitchell, Larry Bramble, Chris Anthony Ferrer, and Phyllis Spear round out Upbin’s talented cast.
James Sherman is the author of numerous plays, including The God of Isaac, Mr. 80%, The Escape Artist, Romance in D, From Door to Door, The Old Man’s Friend, Affluenza, and Jacob and Jack. He began his professional career as a writer and performer with The Second City in Chicago and received an M.F.A. degree from Brandeis University. Since 1985, he has had thirteen plays premiered at the Tony Award-winning Victory Gardens Theater in Chicago, and he was a founding member of the Victory Gardens Playwrights Ensemble. His plays have been published and are regularly produced by theatres throughout the United States and have also been seen in Canada, Mexico, Australia, South America, England, Germany, Austria, Turkey, South Africa, Australia, China, and Korea.

Beau Jest will play for one performance, only – on Wednesday, February 22^nd, at 7:30 pm at Congregation B’nai Torah in Boca Raton. Tickets are $45 ($36 for congregational members), and may be purchased by calling 561-392-8566 or on line at www.bnai-torah.org. Group rates are available.

For more information about Beau Jest or Shari Upbin, please contact Carol Kassie at carol@carolkassie.com / 561-445-9244.

Beau Jest
February 22, 2017
7:30 pm
By James Sherman
Tickets: $45 ($36 for congregational members)
Click HERE to purchase tickets on line.
Phone: 561-392-8566
B’nai Torah Congregation
6261 SW 18^th Street
Boca Raton, FL 33433
www.bnai-torah.org

Shari Upbin:
Shari Upbin (Producer/Director) has been a theatre professional since the age of 13 when she became a member of Actors Equity. (Her father was a writer for Jack Benny). She has been a professional tap dancer and choreographer and is a member of the Society of Stage Directors and Choreographers; she was the president of the League of Professional Theatre Women/New York for seven years, and is currently President of the National Society Of Arts And Letters, Florida East Coast Chapter.
Shari has produced and directed over 50 productions in New York and around the country. Her directing Credits include Vincent, The Passions Of The Artist Van Gogh, Danny And Sylvia at the Forum Theatre in New Jersey. Other credits include Life With Father, Fiddler On The Roof, Cabaret, Jacques Brel, and The Roar Of The Greasepaint; she was awarded Best Director for her production of Side By Side By Sondheim. Shari will be producing the national classical ballet competition En Pointe in South Florida in 2017.
Along with Beau Jest, some of Shari’s Florida directing credits include Bridge & Tunnel, Women’s Minyan, Broadway Live! and Hollywood Live!, Confessions Of A Jewish Shiksa Dancing On Hitler’s Grave at the Kravis Center, Dames In Divaland, From Door to Door, and In the Voice of Our Mothers (at the Posner JCC).
Shari served as assistant director to the world renowned British Director Michael Langham for the first Black/Hispanic Julius Caesar and Coriolanus at the New York Shakespeare Festival with Joe Papp starring Morgan Freeman.
Shari Upbin and Sandi Durell have been long time producing partners in Hollywood Live! and Broadway Live! as well as the Manhattan Association of Cabaret Award nominated Timeless Divas! series with hosts Ben Verreen, Tony Randall, Karen Mason, Tovah Feldshuh , Phyllis Newman, and Leslie Uggams. She is producing the 2017 National Classical Ballet Competition at Florida Atlantic University in June.

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Carbonell Award-Winner Karen Stephens in BRIDGE & TUNNEL – March 16th, 2016

22 Monday Feb 2016

Posted by Carol Kassie in Clients, The Theatre Arts Series at B'nai Torah

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B'nai Torah Congregation, Bridge & Tunnel, Karen Stephens, Sarah Jones, Shari Upbin, The Theatre Arts Series at B'nai Torah

The Theatre Arts Series at B’nai Torah
Shari Upbin
presents
Carbonell Award-Winner
Karen Stephens
in
March 16^th, 2016

February 23, 2016
BOCA RATON, FL: The Theatre Arts Series at B’nai Torah will conclude its season with star power: Carbonell Award-winning actress Karen Stephens will reprise her award-winning performance (Best Actress 2011 – New Times Best of Award) in Sarah Jones’ Tony Award winning Broadway show Bridge & Tunnel.

On March 16^th, Stephens will once again inhabit the souls of 14 diverse members of New York City’s melting pot: A Polish-German-Lithuanian-American Jewish grandmother, a boyfriend-hating Australian, a Chinese mother of a lesbian daughter, a Jordanian woman with a fixation on the Beatles, and 10 other inimitable individuals provide their own distinctive, entertaining, and often moving perspectives on the American dream. Hosted by the charming and hilarious “Muhammad Ali” in a night club in Queens, New York, these fascinating characters from the outer boroughs of New York – bridge and tunnellers – will offer their perceptions of the immigrant experience.

Karen Stephens

“Through an annual poetry gathering we are introduced to these people from varying cultures who share their unique experiences,” Stephens explains. “It’s a delightfully entertaining view of the American immigrant story.”

Bridge & Tunnel was originally produced Off-Broadway by Oscar-winner Meryl Streep, where it won an Obie Award (Outstanding Performance) and went on to become critically acclaimed, long running hit on Broadway where it won a special Tony Award. It was performed in both Sarasota and Ft. Lauderdale as part of the Women’s Theatre Project. Bridge & Tunnel will be directed Shari Upbin.

Playwright Sarah Jones is the winner of the 2007 Brendan Gill Prize. Jones has also received grants and commissions from The Ford Foundation, NYSCA, the W. K. Kellogg Foundation, and others. Her theater honors include an Obie Award, a Helen Hayes Award, two Drama Desk nominations, and HBO’s US Comedy Arts Festival’s Best One Person Show Award.

Bridge & Tunnel will run for one performance, only – on Wednesday, March 16^th, 2016, at 7:30 pm at Congregation B’nai Torah in Boca Raton. Tickets are $36 ($25 for congregational members), and may be purchased by calling 561-392-8566 or on line at www.bnai-torah.org. Group rates are available.

Bridge & Tunnel
by Sarah Jones
March 16, 2016
7:30 pm
Tickets: $36 ($25 for congregational members)
Click HERE to purchase tickets on line
Phone: 561-392-8566
B’nai Torah Congregation
6261 SW 18^th Street
Boca Raton, FL 33433
www.bnai-torah.org

Shari Upbin

Shari Upbin:
Shari Upbin (Producer/Director) has been a theatre professional since the age of 13 when she became a member of Actors Equity. (Her father was a writer for Jack Benny). She has been a professional tap dancer and choreographer and is a member of the Society of Stage Directors and Choreographers; she was the president of the League of Professional Theatre Women/New York for seven years, and is currently President of the National Society Of Arts And Letters, Florida East Coast Chapter.
Shari has produced and directed over 50 productions in New York and around the country. Her directing Credits include Vincent, The Passions Of The Artist Van Gogh, Danny And Sylvia at the Forum Theatre in New Jersey. Other credits include Life With Father, Fiddler On The Roof, Cabaret, Jacques Brel, and The Roar Of The Greasepaint; she was awarded Best Director for her production of Side By Side By Sondheim. Shari will be producing the national classical ballet competition En Pointe in South Florida in 2017.
Along with Bridge & Tunnel, some of Shari’s Florida directing credits include the recent sold out performance of Women’s Minyan, Broadway Live! and Hollywood Live!, Confessions Of A Jewish Shiksa Dancing On Hitler’s Grave at the Kravis Center, Dames In Divaland, From Door to Door, and In the Voice of Our Mothers (at the Posner JCC).
Shari served as assistant director to the world renowned British Director Michael Langham for the first Black/Hispanic Julius Caesar and Coriolanus at the New York Shakespeare Festival with Joe Papp starring Morgan Freeman.
Shari Upbin and Sandi Durell have been long time producing partners in Hollywood Live! and Broadway Live! as well as the Manhattan Association of Cabaret Award nominated Timeless Divas! series with hosts Ben Verreen, Tony Randall, Karen Mason, Tovah Feldshuh , Phyllis Newman, and Leslie Uggams.

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Shari Upbin presents WOMEN’S MINYAN – February 3rd, 2016

21 Thursday Jan 2016

Posted by Carol Kassie in Clients, The Theatre Arts Series at B'nai Torah

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B'nai Torah Congregation, Boca Raton Theatre, Naomi Ragen, Shari Upbin, Women's Minyan

The Theatre Arts Series at B’nai Torah:
Shari Upbin
presents

February 3, 2016
“Ragen is… a champion of those who have no voice.” ~ Amazon.com

BOCA RATON, FL: Naomi Ragen’s powerful play, Women’s Minyan resonates as deeply today as it did when it premiered in July 2002 at Habima National Theater in Tel Aviv. A powerful and fascinating exploration of religious fundamentalism in a patriarchal society, the play is based on a true story. Women’s Minyan will be performed at Boca Raton’s B’nai Torah on February 3, 2016 in the Weiner Auditorium.

Chana Sheinhoff, is the respected Rabbi’s wife in an ultra-Orthodox community in Jerusalem. After years of abuse by her husband, she breaks her silence only to find herself excommunicated and forcibly separated from her twelve children. She convenes a ‘minyan’ (a quorum) of women asking them to decide her worthiness to be reunited with her children. Hearing for the first time what led to her divorce, this group of women explores the boundaries between religion and social convention, truth and falsehood, and women’s true place in the religious world.

Producer Shari Upbin, one of the driving forces behind B’nai Torah’s Theatre Arts Series, will direct Women’s Minyan. The production will feature Faiza Cherie as Chana Sheinhoff, along with Rene Barrett, Fern Katz, Abby Linker, Peggy Linker, Ellie Murray, Clelia Patrizio, Renee Rogoff, Phyllis Spear, and Skylar Voelker. Jeffrey Bruce will provide the voice of the Rabbi. Sound design for the production is by Carbonell Award-winner Matt Corey and lighting design is by Sean Cutler, Artistic Director of Ft. Lauderdale Children’s Theatre and winner of the 2015 BroadwayWorld.com Best Director of a Musical award. Live music will accompany the production.

Women’s Minyan has received universally rave reviews whenever and wherever the play has been produced, and praise for Upbin’s production of the play, which ran at the West Boca Theatre Company at the Levis Jewish Community Center in Boca Raton in November 2012 was unanimous.

Women’s Minyan will run for one performance, only – on Wednesday, February 3^rd, 2016, at 7:30 pm at Congregation B’nai Torah in Boca Raton. Tickets are $36 ($25 for congregational members), and may be purchased by calling 561-392-8566 or on line at www.bnai-torah.org. Group rates are available.

For more information about Women’s Minyan or Shari Upbin, please contact Carol Kassie at ckassie@gmail.com / 561-445-9244.

Women’s Minyan
by Naomi Ragen
Produced and Directed By Shari Upbin
February 3rd, 2016
7:30 pm
Tickets: $36 ($25 for congregational members)
Phone: 561-392-8566
B’nai Torah Congregation
The Weiner Auditorium
6261 SW 18^th Street
Boca Raton, FL 33433
www.bnai-torah.org

Shari Upbin:
Shari Upbin (Producer/Director) has been a theatre professional since the age of 13 when she became a member of Actors Equity. (Her father was a writer for Jack Benny). She has been a professional tap dancer and choreographer and is a member of the Society of Stage Directors and Choreographers; she was the president of the League of Professional Theatre Women/New York for seven years, and is currently President of the National Society Of Arts And Letters, Florida East Coast Chapter.
Shari has produced and directed over 50 productions in New York and around the country. Her directing Credits include Vincent, The Passions Of The Artist Van Gogh, Danny And Sylvia at the Forum Theatre in New Jersey. Other credits include Life With Father, Fiddler On The Roof, Cabaret, Jacques Brel, and The Roar Of The Greasepaint; she was awarded Best Director for her production of Side By Side By Sondheim. Shari will be producing the national classical ballet competition En Pointe in South Florida in 2017.
Along with Women’s Minyan, some of Shari’s Florida directing credits include Broadway Live! and Hollywood Live!, Confessions Of A Jewish Shiksa Dancing On Hitler’s Grave at the Kravis Center, Dames In Divaland, From Door to Door, and In the Voice of Our Mothers (at the Posner JCC).
Shari served as assistant director to the world renowned British Director Michael Langham for the first Black/Hispanic Julius Caesar and Coriolanus at the New York Shakespeare Festival with Joe Papp starring Morgan Freeman.
Shari Upbin and Sandi Durell have been long time producing partners in Hollywood Live! and Broadway Live! as well as the Manhattan Association of Cabaret Award nominated Timeless Divas! series with hosts Ben Verreen, Tony Randall, Karen Mason, Tovah Feldshuh , Phyllis Newman, and Leslie Uggams. Shari is currently teaching a master class, and will be staging Tony Finstrom’s Wave Your Flag for the Jan McArt Playwright’s Series at Lynn University.

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2015 -2016 Theatre & Concert Schedules

02 Sunday Aug 2015

Posted by Carol Kassie in Arts Garage, Clients, Community Performing Arts, Entr'Acte Theatrix, Evening Star Productions, Pigs Do Fly Productions, Sol Children Theatre, The Broward Stage Door Theatre, The Delray Beach Chorale, The Theatre Arts Series at B'nai Torah, Theatre Thoughts, Thinking Cap Theatre

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35 MM, A Map of Virtue, A Midsummer Night's Dream, Arts Radio Network, Black Box Booking, Bridge & Tunnel, Broward Stage Door Theatre, Carnival, Community Performing Arts, David Mamet, Entr'Acte Theatrix, Ethan Bortnick, Evening Star Productions, Evita, Gypsy, Jerusalem Tenors, Karen Stephens, Kevin Black, Kol Esperanza, Mel Brooks Young Frankenstein, Michael Leeds, Murdered to Death, Noel Coward, Oleanna, Once Upon a Mattress, Oscar Wilde, Pigs Do Fly Productions, Promises Promises, Radio at Arts Garage, Ryan Scott Oliver, Same Time Next Year, Shari Upbin, Sol Children Theatre, South Florida Theatre, Spanish River Concerts, Stage Door Theatre, Stephen Sondheim, The Delray Beach Chorale, The Importance of Being Earnest, The Jazz Singer, The Vanguard, Thinking Cap Theatre at The Vangaurd, Umi Garrett, Unlikely Heroes, Waiting for Waiting for Godot, William Shakespeare, Women's Minyan

2015-2016 Theatre & Concert Schedules
for
Pigs Do Fly Productions
Entr’Acte Theatrix
Sol Children Theatre
Evening Star Productions
Stage Door Theatre
Thinking Cap Theatre at The Vanguard
Shari Upbin Directs
Baby Boom Baby
Arts Radio Network Theatre Project series at Arts Garage
4 Ever ’50s
Unlikely Heroes
The Jazz Singer
The Jackie Mason Musical
The Delray Beach Chorale
The Spanish River Concert Series (Community Performing Arts)

Below is a list of productions – plays, musicals, concerts, readings, radio plays, etc. – that will be presented on various South Florida stages during the 2015-2016 season … and beyond.
I will try to keep this list up to date and make sure any additions, subtractions, and changes in dates or venues are noted as they arise.
As you will see as you scroll down this page, theatre in South Florida is thriving, and audiences will be able to choose from an exciting and eclectic selection of productions, concerts, and presentations in the coming months.
Please don’t hesitate to contact me if you have any questions…
I look forward to seeing you at the Theatre!
Carol

Pigs Do Fly Productions:

Flying High!
By Various Playwrights
October 8 – October 25, 2015
There will be a second production of new plays in March 2016
Tickets: $30
Tickets: 866-811-4111 / http://pigsdoflyproductions.com
Performances:
Thursday, Friday, & Saturday: 8 pm
Sunday: 2 pm
All performances will take place at Empire Stage.
1140 North Flagler Drive.
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304
http://pigsdoflyproductions.com
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Seven brand new short plays chosen to highlight ‘vibrant, healthy people over the age of 50 doing interesting things with their lives’; the plays are selected with all audiences in mind. Playwrights include E.M. Garcia, Andrea Rassler, Marv Siegel, and Carol White.

Entr’Acte Theatrix:

Young Frankenstein
Book by Mel Brooks
Music and Lyrics by Mel Brooks
Book by Thomas Meehan
October 22 – November 1
Performance Schedule:
Thursday, October 22 – 8 pm (Preview)
Friday, October 23 – 8 pm
Saturday, October 24 – 2 pm
Saturday, October 24 – 8 pm
Sunday, October 25 – 2 pm (BOGO)
Sunday, October 25 – 8 pm
Wednesday, October 28 – 8 pm
Thursday, October 29 – 8 pm
Friday, October 30 – 8 pm
Saturday, October 31 – 2 pm
Saturday, October 31 – 8 pm
Sunday, November 1 – 2 pm
Delray Beach Center for the Arts / Crest Theatre
51 N. Swinton Ave.
Delray Beach 33444
Box Office: 561-243-7922, Ext. 1
http://www.delraycenterforthearts.org
http://www.entractetheatrix.org
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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.

Evening Star Productions:

35mm: A Musical Exhibition
October 8 – 25
Music and Lyrics by Ryan Scott Oliver
Based on photographs by Matthew Murphy
Vocal arrangements and orchestrations by Ryan Scott Oliver
Additional percussion arrangements by Jeremy Yaddaw
Additional guitar arrangements by Matt Hinkley
Directed by Rosalie Grant
Tickets: $25 / $10 for students
For Tickets: 561-447-8829 /http://www.eveningstarproductions.org
Sol Theatre
3333 North Federal Highway
Boca Raton, FL 33431
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If a picture is worth a 1,000 words – what about a song? Can a picture inspire a song – or fifteen? In 35mm, each photo creates an unique song, moments frozen in time; a glimmer of a life unfolding; a glimpse of something happening. A stunning new multimedia musical which explores a groundbreaking new concept in musical theatre… This intricately woven collection of stories told through song re-imagines what the modern American musical can be.

Murdered to Death
April 14 – May 1, 2016
By Peter Gordon
Directed by Rosalie Grant
Tickets: $20 / $10 students
For Tickets: 561-447-8829 / http://www.eveningstarproductions.org
Sol Theatre
3333 North Federal Highway
Boca Raton, FL 33431
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From the author of Out of Focus comes this hilarious spoof of the best Agatha Christie traditions, with an assembled cast of characters guaranteed to delight: Bunting the butler, an English Colonel with the prerequisite stiff upper lip, a shady French art dealer and his moll, bumbling local inspectors and a well meaning local sleuth who seems to attract murder – they’re all here, and all caught up in the side-splitting antics which follow the mysterious death of the owner of a country manor house. But will the murderer be unmasked before everyone else has met their doom, or will audiences die laughing first?

Sol Children Theatre:

Once Upon a Mattress
December 3 – 20, 2015
Music by Mary Rodgers
Book by Jay Thrompson, Dean Fuller & Marshall Barer
Lyrics by Marshall Barer
Directed by Rosalie Grant and Gisbert Heuer
Tickets: $15 / $10 juniors (11 and under)
Tickets: $25 / $10 for students
For Tickets: 561-447-8829 / http://www.solchildren.org
Sol Theatre
3333 North Federal Highway
Boca Raton, FL 33431
Like Us on Facebook!

If you thought you knew the story of ‘The Princess and The Pea,’ you may be in for a walloping surprise! Did you know, for instance, that Princess Winnifred actually swam the moat to reach Prince Dauntless the Drab? Or that Lady Larken’s love for Sir Harry provided a rather compelling reason that she reach the bridal altar post haste? Or that, in fact, it wasn’t the pea at all that caused the princess a sleepless night? Carried on a wave of wonderful songs, by turns hilarious and raucous, romantic and melodic, this rollicking spin on the familiar classic of royal courtship and comeuppance provides for some side-splitting shenanigans. Chances are you’ll never look at fairy tales quite the same way again.

Around the World in 80 Days
June 17 – July 3, 2016
Book and Lyrics by Chris Blackwood
Music by Piers Chater Robinson
Based on the book by Jules Verne
Directed by Rosalie & Gisbert Heuer
Tickets: $15 / $10 juniors (11 and under)
Tickets: $25 / $10 for students
For Tickets: 561-447-8829 / http://www.solchildren.org
Sol Theatre
3333 North Federal Highway
Boca Raton, FL 33431
Like Us on Facebook!

Based on Jules Verne’s classic novel, the musical recounts the journey of Phileas Fogg who has made a bet with the members of his gentlemen’s club that he can travel around the world in 80 days. Accompanied by his servant Passepartout the plot revolves around the adventures Fogg faces in his attempt.

A Midsummer Night’s Dream
August 5 – 21, 2016
By William Shakespeare
Adapted and directed by Seth Trucks
Tickets: $12 / $8 juniors (11 and under)
Tickets: $25 / $10 for students
For Tickets: 561-447-8829 / http://www.solchildren.org
Sol Theatre
3333 North Federal Highway
Boca Raton, FL 33431
Like Us on Facebook!

One of Shakespeare’s most popular plays, A Midsummer Night’s Dream depicts the events surrounding the marriage of Theseus, the Duke of Athens, and his bride Hippolyta, including the adventures of four young Athenian lovers and a group of six amateur actors, who are controlled and manipulated by the fairies who inhabit the forest in which most of the play is

Stage Door Theatre:

Group and Subscriber Discounts available for these productions

The Fantasticks
September 4 – October 11, 2015
Music by Harvey Schmidt
Lyrics by Tom Jones
Tickets: $38 – $42
Phone: 954-344-7765
Showtimes:
Wednesday, Saturday, & Sunday at 2 pm,
Friday & Saturday at 8 pm
The Stage Door Theatre
8036 W Sample Rd
Margate, Fl 33065
www.stagedoortheatre.com
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The world’s longest running musical is a funny and romantic musical about a boy, a girl, two fathers, a wall… and a world of moonlight and magic. The timeless score includes the classic “Try to Remember”, as well as “Soon It’s Gonna Rain”, “They Were You”, and “Plant a Radish”.

Promises, Promises
September 25 – November 1, 2015
Music by Burt Bacharach
Lyrics by Hal David
Tickets: $38-$42
Phone: 954-344-7765
Showtimes: Wednesday, Saturday, & Sunday at 2 pm
Friday & Saturday at 8 pm
Stage Door Theatre
8036 Sample Road
Margate, FL 33065
www.stagedoor Theatre.com
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Infused with the swinging energy of 1968 Manhattan, Promises, Promises is the musical tale of a lovelorn young executive and a romantically troubled waitress. Featuring a number of hit songs, including “A House is Not a Home”, “I’ll Never Fall in Love Again”, and “I Say a Little Prayer for You”.

Dial ‘M’ for Murder
October 30 – December 6, 2015
By Frederick Knotts
Tickets: $38 – $42
Phone: 954-344-7765
Showtimes:
Wednesday, Saturday, & Sunday at 2 pm,
Friday & Saturday at 8 pm
The Stage Door Theatre
8036 W Sample Rd
Margate, Fl 33065
www.stagedoortheatre.com
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Deception, murder, and passion complicate this darkly brilliant tale of jealousy and greed. Motivated by his wife Magot’s large fortune and a previous infidelity, Tony Wendice decides it’s time to murder her. With twists and turns galore, Dial M for Murder remains one of the most clever and shocking plays of any genre.

Gypsy
November 20, 2015 – January 3, 2016
Music by Jule Styne
Lyrics by Stephen Sondheim
Book by Arthur Laurents
Tickets: $38 – $42
Phone: 954-344-7765
Showtimes:
Wednesday, Saturday, & Sunday at 2 pm,
Friday & Saturday at 8 pm
The Stage Door Theatre
8036 W Sample Rd
Margate, Fl 33065
www.stagedoortheatre.com
Like Us on Facebook!
Loosely based on the memoirs of stripper Gypsy Rose Lee, Gypsy focuses on Momma Rose, who has been called the ‘ultimate show business mother. It chronicles Rose’s dreams and efforts to raise her two daughters, Louise and June to perform on stage, and casts an affectionate eye on the hardships of a life in show business. Musical numbers include “Let Me Entertain You”, “Some People”, “If Momma was Married”, “Together”, and “Everything’s Coming Up Roses”.

Pompadour
December 26, 2015 – January 31, 2016
Conceived by Michael Leeds
Tickets: $38 – $42
Phone: 954-344-7765
Showtimes:
Wednesday, Saturday, & Sunday at 2 pm,
Friday & Saturday at 8 pm
The Stage Door Theatre
8036 W Sample Rd
Margate, Fl 33065
www.stagedoortheatre.com
Like Us on Facebook!
What do the Everly Brothers, Bobby Darrin, Ben E. King, Frank, and Elvis have in common? Great music… and great hair! Pompadour is the new musical review that features five incredible guys singing and dancing through five decades of unforgettable songs. It’s the music you remember, made famous by the singers and groups you’ll never forget. So put your comb in your pocket, your brush in your bag, and get ready to raise the roof!

Carnival
January 22 – February 28, 2016
Music & Lyrics by Bob Merrill
Tickets: $38 – $42
Phone: 954-344-7765
Showtimes:
Wednesday, Saturday, & Sunday at 2 pm,
Friday & Saturday at 8 pm
The Stage Door Theatre
8036 W Sample Rd
Margate, Fl 33065
www.stagedoortheatre.com
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Based on the popular 1953 musical Lili, Carnival is filled with colorful characters, delightful puppets, wonderful dance sequences, memorable music, and theatrical magic. The musical relates the story of a naive young orphan girl who joins a traveling French circus, where she meets a manipulative magician and a disillusioned puppeteer, who can only show his emotions via his whimsical puppet creations.

What’s New Pussycat
February 19 – March 27, 2016
Conceived by Kevin Black and Michael Leeds
Tickets: $38 – $42
Phone: 954-344-7765
Showtimes:
Wednesday, Saturday, & Sunday at 2 pm,
Friday & Saturday at 8 pm
The Stage Door Theatre
8036 W Sample Rd
Margate, Fl 33065
www.stagedoortheatre.com
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Back by popular demand! These Boots are Made for Walkin’ so let’s go Downtown, taking The Long and Winding Road to a Bridge over Troubled Waters. Then I’ve Got Georgia On My Mind, so I’ll be Leavin’ On a Jet Plane with My Girl, My Guy, and Eleanor Rigby. But if you’re California Dreamin’, I’m feeling those Good Vibrations, so just Walk Like a Man and let’s Hit the Road, Jack. You Don’t Have to Say You Love Me ’cause Our Day Will Come and we’re gonna be Happy Together. How do I know…? ‘Cause I Heard it on the Grapevine!

Evita
March 18 – April 24, 2016
Music by Andrew Lloyd Webber
Lyrics by Tim Rice
Tickets: $38 – $42
Phone: 954-344-7765
Showtimes:
Wednesday, Saturday, & Sunday at 2 pm,
Friday & Saturday at 8 pm
The Stage Door Theatre
8036 W Sample Rd
Margate, Fl 33065
www.stagedoortheatre.com
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Based upon the life of Argentine political leader Eva Peron, who became the spiritual leader of the nation, Evita traces this charismatic woman’s rise from obscurity to fame and fortune as one of the most influential political figures in the country’s history.

Same Time, Next Year
April 15 – May 22, 2016
By Bernard Slade
Tickets: $38 – $42
Phone: 954-344-7765
Showtimes:
Wednesday, Saturday, & Sunday at 2 pm,
Friday & Saturday at 8 pm
The Stage Door Theatre
8036 W Sample Rd
Margate, Fl 33065
www.stagedoortheatre.com
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Same Time, Next Year chronicles the love affair between Doris and George, both married to other people, who rendezvous just once a year. Twenty-five years of manners and morals are hilariously and touchingly played out in this classic and popular romantic comedy.

Stephen Sondheim’s Putting it Together
May 13 – June 19, 2016
Tickets: $38 – $42
Phone: 954-344-7765
Showtimes:
Wednesday, Saturday, & Sunday at 2 pm,
Friday & Saturday at 8 pm
The Stage Door Theatre
8036 W Sample Rd
Margate, Fl 33065
www.stagedoortheatre.com
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At an all-night, black-tie party in a penthouse, the hosts, an older couple, face their disillusions and marital troubles; a younger, less jaundiced couple struggle with their feelings and desires, and a commentator oversees and influences the action. The spouses deal with infidelity and divorce, but finally reconcile before dawn. This musical compendium features almost 30 Sondheim tunes, including songs from Into the Woods, A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum, A Little Night Music, Company, and Sweeny Todd.

The Soul of Motor City
June 10 – July 17, 2016
Conceived by Kevin Black
Tickets: $38 – $42
Phone: 954-344-7765
Showtimes:
Wednesday, Saturday, & Sunday at 2 pm,
Friday & Saturday at 8 pm
The Stage Door Theatre
8036 W Sample Rd
Margate, Fl 33065
www.stagedoortheatre.com
Like Us on Facebook!

In the early 1960s Detroit was on the move. The distinctive sound that emerged from the city was the sound of young America. That music has left an indelible stamp on the heart, soul, and mind of several generations. The Soul of Motor City brings new life to those classics made famous by such artists as The Four Tops, Martha Reeves, Aretha Franklin, Ray Charles, The Temptations, The Supremes, and many more.

Present Laughter
July 8 – August 14, 2016
By Noel Coward
Tickets: $38 – $42
Phone: 954-344-7765
Showtimes:
Wednesday, Saturday, & Sunday at 2 pm,
Friday & Saturday at 8 pm
The Stage Door Theatre
8036 W Sample Rd
Margate, Fl 33065
www.stagedoortheatre.com
Like Us on Facebook!

Present Laughter was described by playwright Noel Coward as “a series of semi-autobiographical pyrotechnics.” The play covers several days in the life of the successful and self-obsessed Garry Essendine as he prepares to travel for a touring commitment in Africa. Amid a series of events bordering on farce, Garry has to deal with women who want to seduce him, placate his long-suffering secretary and his estranged wife, cope with a crazed young playwright, and overcome his impending mid-life crisis (since he recently turned forty.)

TJ’z Productions
presents
The 4 Guyz in
4 Ever ‘50s
December 4 – 13
Performance dates & times:
Dec 4, 5, 10, 11, 12 at 8pm
Dec 5, 6, 12, 13 at 2pm
Tickets:
$30 per person; $21 opening night December 4)
$24 group rate (6 or more tickets purchased in one transaction)(Group rates may only be purchased in person or by calling the Box Office)
To purchase tickets: 561-347-3948 or www.willowtheatre.org
The Willow Theatre at Sugar Sand Park
300 South Military Trail
Boca Raton, FL 33486
www.willowtheatre.org
www.4ever50s.com

A treat for history buffs and music lovers alike, 4 Ever 50’s asks how many of the jingles of that special era rattled off during the evening will audiences remember and sing along to? Can they name all the top television shows from the 1950’s and early 1960’s? And of course, can they sing along to such timeless classics as “Teenager in Love,” “Blue Moon,” “At the Hop,” “Why Do Fools Fall in Love?” and many, many more.
“The show’s song list is irresistible ear candy for folks who grew up on sock hops and 45 rpm records.” “… the show embraces the audience with a sincere charm.” – Damien Jacques of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel

The Jackie Mason Musical
Both Sides of a Famous Love Affair with a Hilarious Twist

The Jackie Mason Musical By Ginger Reiter
January 7 – 24, 2016
Performances:
Thursday, Friday, & Saturday at 8 pm
Sunday at 5 pm
For tickets: 866-811-4111
Click HERE to purchase tickets on line.
All performances will take place at

Empire Stage

1140 N. Flagler Drive
Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33304

Based on a true story, The Jackie Mason Musical begins at The Rascal House – a deli in Miami Beach – in 1977, where Jackie, a renowned 46 year old comedian, spots a pretty young college girl, Ginger (played by Jackie’s own daughter, comedian Sheba Mason). Along for the ride is er overbearing mother, Mr.s Olivier, who engineers the entire affair – down to a black negligee – with unforgettable panache, and a hilarious cast of six.

Black Box Booking & Hy Juter present:

The Jazz Singer
Based on the play by Samson Raphaelson
January 8 – January 24, 2016
Tickets: $35
Group rates (6 or more) available
Phone: 561-347-3948
Showtimes:
Thursday, Friday, & Saturday at 8:00 pm,
Saturday & Sunday at 2:00 pm
The Willow Theatre at Sugar Sand Park
300 S. Military Trail
Boca Raton, FL 33486
Black Box Booking – Jazz Singer Information
www.willowtheatre.org

The Jazz Singer explores the internal coming of age struggle of a talented son’s passion for music interfering with his cantor father’s plans for him to follow in his footsteps. The musical features songs by various artists and composers including Irving Berlin and George Gershwin. Numbers include “You Made Me Love You”, “Baby Face”, “Mammy”, “I’m Sittin’ on Top of the World”, “I’m Just Wild About Harry”, and “April Showers”.

Family Pool Productions:

Unlikely Heroes
By Charles Gluck
Directed by Avi Hoffman
January 28 – February 21, 2016
(Previews, January 28 at 8 pm, January 29 at 8 pm & January 30 at 2 pm)
Tickets: $35 (plus $4.50 S/C)
Phone: 800-595-4849 / Purchase tickets on line
Excellent Group Rates Available-Call: 828-828-536-0963
Performances:
Wednesday – Saturday at 8 pm
Saturday & Sunday at 2 pm
Mizner Park Cultural Arts Center/Studio Theatre 2^nd Floor
201 Plaza Real
Boca Raton, FL 33432
http://unlikelyheroesplay.com

“Laughter, love, dark secrets, anger, sadness, joy, and hope are woven into the fiber of this riveting new play about ordinary people under extraordinary circumstances. A close family fragments when faced with a crisis and then comes together with unlikely heroes emerging. Sometimes strength can be a weakness and weakness a strength”. The cast includes Avi Hoffman, Patti Gardner, Kim Ostrenko, Margot Moreland, Michael H. Small, and Robert Johnston.

The Vanguard:
Multi-production Flex Passes available

Waiting for Waiting for Godot
By Dave Hanson
August 28 – September 13, 2015
Tickets: $35 ($37.22 with s/c)
For Tickets: 813-220-1546
www.vanguardarts.org
Performances:
Thursday – Saturday at 8 pm
Sunday at 5 pm
The Vanguard
1501 S. Andrews Avenue
Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316
www.vanguardarts.org
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Dave Hanson’s comedy about two understudies who are waiting to ‘go on’ in a production of Samuel Beckett’s classic Waiting for Godot – itself a play about two men who wait for a man they’ve never met, who never arrives – is not in any way an adaptation or interpretation of Beckett’s work, but rather a brand new play that examines theatre, acting, and art in a unique, clever, and extremely funny way.

A Map of Virtue
By Erin Courtney
October 2 – 18, 2015
Tickets: $35 ($37.22 with s/c)
For Tickets: 813-220-1546
www.vanguardarts.org
Performances:
Thursday – Saturday at 8 pm
Sunday at 5 pm
The Vanguard
1501 S. Andrews Avenue
Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316
www.vanguardarts.org
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A Map of Virtue is a symmetrical play guided by a bird statue, pivoting around an encounter with and dissection of evil. Part interview, part comedy, part middle-night-middle-forest horror story, the play was awarded an Obie in 2012, and described as “one of the most terrifying plays of the past decade” by Alexis Soloski in The New York Times.

The Importance of Being Earnest, A Trivial Comedy for Serious People
By Oscar Wilde
November 20 – December 13, 2015
Tickets: $35 ($37.22 with s/c)
For Tickets: 813-220-1546
Click HERE to purchase tickets on line
Performance Schedule:
Friday, November 20, 2015, 8pm (Opening Night)
Saturday, November 21st, 8pm
Sunday, November 22nd, 5pm
Friday, November 27th, 8pm
Saturday, November 28th, 8pm
Sunday, November 29th, 5pm
Thursday, December 3rd, 8pm
Friday, December 4th, 8pm
Saturday, December 5th, 8pm
Sunday, December 6th, 5pm
Thursday, December 10, 8pm
Friday, December 11, 8pm
Saturday, December 12, 8pm
Sunday, December 13, 5pm
Please note – there will be no performance on Thursday, November 26 – Thanksgiving Day
The Vanguard
1501 S. Andrews Avenue
Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316
www.vanguardarts.org
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Dust off your disco shoes and get ready to have fun with puns. Thinking Cap Theatre will put its own unique spin on one of the theatre’s most beloved classics when it presents Oscar Wilde’s bristling comedy The Importance of Being Earnest at the Vanguard Sanctuary for the Arts. Director Nicole Stodard has set the play in December 1978 – in disco-era New York City. The show promises to be punny, prurient, and pointed, informed by both 1970’s pop culture and social issues.

B’nai Torah Theatre Series:
Produced and Directed By Shari Upbin

Women’s Minyan
by Naomi Ragen
February 3rd, 2016
7:30 pm
Tickets: $36 ($25 for congregational members)
Phone: 561-392-8566
B’nai Torah Congregation
6261 SW 18^th Street
Boca Raton, FL 33433
www.bnai-torah.org
In her powerful and often emotional award-winning play Women’s Minyan (based on a true story), novelist and playwright Naomi Ragen explores the strict rules that govern the lives of Orthodox Jewish women, and in particular, how religious leaders can twist biblical and other holy writings to suit their objectives. But more importantly, Ragen – who once described herself as “a very religious woman who relates to religion with great seriousness” – sheds light on the subject of domestic abuse, especially when it occurs in a close-knit, patriarchal community that prefers to keep its hidden secrets.

Bridge & Tunnel
by Sarah Jones
March 16, 2016
7:30 pm
Tickets: $36 ($25 for congregational members)
Phone: 561-392-8566
B’nai Torah Congregation
6261 SW 18^th Street
Boca Raton, FL 33433
www.bnai-torah.org
Carbonell Award-winning actress Karen Stephens will reprise her award-winning performance in Sarah Jones’ Tony Award winning play Bridge & Tunnel. On March 16th, 2016, Stephens will once again inhabit the souls of 14 unique and diverse members of New York City’s melting pot.

Baby Boom Baby

Baby Boom Baby
Written & Performed byTommy Koenig
April 28 – May 15
Tickets: $40
Phone: 855-728-8497
To purchase tickets on line: http://palmbeachestheatre.org
Showtimes:
Thursday, Friday, & Saturday at 7:30 pm
Sunday at 2 pm
The Palm Beaches Theatre
250 South Ocean Blvd.,
Manalapan, FL 33462
(East Ocean Ave. & A1A –
Formerly Florida Stage/Plaza Theatre)
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Comedy Central/National Lampoon star Tommy Koenig’s Baby Boom Baby has been called wildly entertaining, touching, and very, very funny! It has also been called well-written, high energy and invigorating. Koenig will bring his one man “‘musicomedy’- a flashback through our times and the music that defined them” to the Palm Beaches theatre from April 28^th through May 15^th.

Baby Boom Baby is Koenig’s story, told from his distinctly Baby Boomer perspective. He was born in Brooklyn, New York, in 1953, the year Rock and Roll was born. The son of a musician who played with Glenn Miller during WW2, Koenig was greatly influenced by chance meetings with John F. Kennedy and later George Carlin, and mostly by what the Beatles brought – the influence of music on Boomers’ culture and personal choices. In Baby Boom Baby Koenig recounts the years he struggled to keep up with the changing times, just missing Woodstock by a few miles; the rites of passage of College, Travel, Sex and Drugs; and the ever changing cultural and political landscape that music unleashed as it morphed from Disco to Punk to MTV to Rap and beyond.

Arts Radio Network Theatre Project series at Arts Garage:From The Mercury Theatre to A Prairie Home Companion, the radio play is a uniquely American art form, and one of this country’s most beloved. During the 1930s through 50s, live performances of plays broadcast over the radio were a part of everyday life. The Arts Radio Network Theatre Project is a unique combination of the nostalgia of classic radio drama, and the excitement of a live theatrical performance. Come see the golden age of radio brought gloriously back to life on stage at Arts Garage, featuring some of South Florida’s finest actors! It’s a trip to the past with a modern twist.

The African Queen
August 19 and 20, 2015
At the start of World War 1, Charlie Allnut is using his old steamer, The African Queen, to ferry supplies to villages in East Africa. When the Rev. Samuel Sayer dies, Charlie agrees to take Sayers’ sister, Rose, back to civilization, taking on the Germans at the same time. Their time alone on the river turns to love.

Double Indemnity
September 16 and 17, 2015
Based on the 1944 classic film noir masterpiece directed by Billy Wilder, this cynical, witty, and sleazy thriller involves scandals including adultery, corruption and murder. Needless to say, all does not go according to plan…

Miracle on 34^th Street
December 16 and 17, 2015
Six-year-old Susan has doubts about childhood’s most enduring miracle – Santa Claus. Her mother told her the “secret” about Santa a long time ago, so Susan doesn’t expect to receive the most important gifts on her Christmas list. But after meeting a special department store Santa who’s convinced he’s the real thing, Susan is given the most precious gift of all – something to believe in.

Arts Radio Network Theatre Project at Arts Garage:
For tickets: 561-450-6357/ http://www.artsgarage.org/Page/RadioTheater
Performances:
Wednesday & Thursday at 7:30 pm
General Admission: $15
Reserved Seat: $20
Premium Seat: $25
Reserved Table for 6: $108
Premium Table for 6: $135
Group rates are also available
All performances at
Arts Garage
180 NE First Street
Delray Beach, FL 33444
http://www.artsgarage.org/Page/RadioTheater
www.artsradionetwork.com
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The Delray Beach Chorale:
Now in its 34th season, under the direction of Artistic Director/Conductor Dr. Patricia P. Fleitas, the Delray Beach Chorale is proud to announce its 2015-16 season, expanding its outreach in Palm Beach County through performances in Boca Raton and North West Palm Beach. The Chorale will open its season with the debut performance of its newly founded, the DBC Chamber Ensemble. The Chorale will join the Lynn University Philharmonia and the Florida Atlantic University Chamber Singers for the April, 2016 concert, “Haydn Mozart, Beethoven and Company,” featuring Mozart’s Coroanation Mass.

Fall Concerts: Magnificats, Alleluias and Carols
The Fall 2015 concerts will feature Halsey Stevens’ Magnificat for strings and trumpet solo, a medley of carols, Christmas Ornaments, by Randol Bass for chorus and orchestra, and Bach’s Magnificat in D Major for chorus, soli, and orchestra.

Performances:
Friday, December 4, 2015 at 7:30 pm
DiSantis Family Chapel
Palm Beach Atlantic University
300 Okeechobee Blvd.
West Palm Beach, 33401

Saturday, December 5, 2015 at 3 pm
First Presbyterian Church
33 Gleason St.
Delray Beach, 33483

Spring Concerts: The Vienna of Haydn, Mozart, Beethoven, and Company
A choral concert featuring the Viennese Style of Haydn, Mozart, and Beethoven, in addition to Shubert, Bruckner, and Brahms. Featured work will be Mozart’s Coronation Mass.

Performances:
Friday, April 8, 2016 at 7:30 pm
Roberts Theatre, St. Andrews School
3900 Jog Road
Boca Raton 33434

Saturday, April 9, 2016 at 7:30 pm
First Presbyterian Church
33 Gleason St.
Delray Beach, 33483

Tickets are $25 in advance: $30 at the door. Students under 25 with ID- $5. Season ticket packages are available at $20 per ticket for a limited time via 1-800-984-7282. Group sales are also available by calling 1-800-984-7282. http://delraybeachchorale.org.

Spanish River Concerts (Community Performing Arts):

Community Performing Arts celebrates its thirteenth season this January through March, by yet again offering innovative virtuoso musical performances in conveniently located venues in West Boca Raton and Delray Beach. Individual tickets for these concerts will cost $49 (plus tax) when they go on sale on December 1, but series subscriptions include all four of the following concerts, and are available now for the discounted package price of $158 (plus tax).

Kol Esperanza – With Guests:
Kol Esperanza is a vibrant Israeli pop trio created by Community Performing Arts and musical director Tomer Adaddi. Accompanied by a virtuoso ensemble, classically trained Nimrod, Nadav, and Omer sing popular selections with guest soprano-duo Lev Voce.

Umi Garrett with Conductor Adam Glaser:
Hailed by the Huffington Post as “a budding musical genius”, fifteen year old pianist Umi Garrett will perform classical masterpieces, accompanied by the Boca Symphonia, conducted by Juilliard’s engaging and charismatic Adam Glaser.

Ethan Bortnick and Friends:
Nationally known pianist, singer, composer, Ethan Bortnick conceived and starred in two award-winning PBS specials that aired more than 600 times across the USA. For this special production, Ethan invites a talented trio of Broadway singers to share the stage with him in an entertaining and inspirational concert. Backed by his 14-piece instrumental ensemble, he welcomes David Burnham, Cassie Levine, and Shelley Keelor for a uniquely memorable evening of multi-genre music.

Jerusalem Tenors:
An encore of the most lauded engagement in CPA’s history – European opera stars Yevgeni Shapovalov, Felix Livshitz, Vladislav Goray, and baritone Alex Gounko create a wonderful evening featuring well-known opera and popular favorites in English, Italian, Russian, and Yiddish.

2016 Optional Concert
(Sold separately from the above series, and available now for $46 plus tax)

Broadway’s Best:
A showcase concert produced by popular/composer, producer Neil Berg, featuring the music and dance of Broadway, performed by some of the Great White Way’s best talent, backed by a four-piece instrumental ensemble.

Evening and matinee concerts will be presented at either Spanish River Church, at 2400 Yamato Road, Boca Raton, 33431, and Kings Point Theatre, 7000 West Atlantic Avenue, Delray Beach, 33446.

Call 1-800-716-6975 or visit CPA’s website at www.SpanishRiverConcerts.com for specific concert dates, times, and ticket availability.”

GFour Productions & Shari Upbin present Carol Fox Prescott’s IN THE VOICE OF OUR MOTHERS – February 15th at Boca Raton’s B’nai Torah

22 Thursday Jan 2015

Posted by Carol Kassie in Clients, The Theatre Arts Series at B'nai Torah

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B'nai Torah, B'nai Torah Congregation, Carol Fox Prescott, David Posnack JCC, GFour Productions, In the Voice of Our Mothers, Irene Kessler, Malia Nicoline, Mary Stucchi, Peggy Linker, Penny Mandel, Posnack JCC, Rabbi Danielle Upbin, Rene Rogoff, Shari Upbin, The Theatre Arts Series at B'nai Torah

The Theatre Arts Series at B’nai Torah
GFour Productions &
Shari Upbin
present
In the Voice of Our Mothers
February 15^th, 2015
A celebration of history that connects us to our lineage with the music of voice, dance, tambourines, and shofars…

January 22, 2015:
BOCA RATON, FL: Sarah, Rebecca, Rachel, Leah, and Miriam are brought to vivid and vibrant life in In The Voice Of Our Mothers, Carol Fox Prescott’s powerful play featuring our biblical matriarchs. The B’nai Torah Theatre Arts Series, GFour Productions, and producer/director Shari Upbin will bring In The Voice Of Our Mothers to the B’nai Torah stage for one performance only on February 15^th, 2015.

Told from the point of view of the women, In The Voice of Our Mothers reveals the intimate and compelling narratives of five of the most beloved and iconic women of the bible. They invite audiences into their worlds, and offer first-person accounts of their stories – stories that are familiar to all, yet are also the stories of their lives. Prescott stays true to the ancient texts – yet the play powerfully convinces audiences of the relevance of these women’s lives – their actions, their choices, and the consequences thereof – even today.

Playwright Carol Fox Prescott, who will also direct the production, will conduct a ‘talk back’ with the audience after the February 15^th performance.

Carol Fox Prescott

“When I wrote the original stories that In The Voice of Our Mothers is based on, I was looking for a way back into Jewish life and practice that would nourish and sustain me, different from the religion of my childhood,” Prescott has said. “As an actress, it was natural for me to attempt to step into the shoes of the women and look out through their eyes. The process worked on a very personal level, providing an opening for prayer, celebration, community and growth.”

“When it was suggested to me that the stories become a play, I wholeheartedly dove into the project without thinking much about what they might mean to me now, twenty years later,” she continued. “While working on and developing the play in rehearsal and performance in a variety of venues – synagogues churches, universities, prisons, theaters – I assumed that questions would be asked and answered in the process. And it has, as they say in the Bible, come to pass. The play continues to unfold as our audiences help us to reveal deeper and richer textures through our relationships within these ancient texts.”

“The subject and presentation of this amazing piece of theatre will bring joy and tears to anyone who experiences In The Voice Of Our Mothers,” says producer Shari Upbin. “It is a tribute to women of all religions around the world. To be connected to an event that will be ongoing and witnessed by audiences all over, is an homage to the mothers of the Bible.”

“In The Voice of Our Mothers is everything great theatre should be,” says Seth Greenleaf of GFour Productions. Exciting, educational, challenging, and rewarding.”

Rabbi Danielle Upbin

The music from Rabbi Danielle Upbin’s CD Reveal the Light has been incorporated into the Boca Raton production. “When I heard the CD,” says Carol Fox Prescott, ‘I said ‘this is my dream, these are the songs.’” Rabbi Upbin is Shari Upbin’s daughter.

Five talented actresses will don the mantles of the Matriarchs: Peggy Linker will play Sarah, Mary Stucchi will play Rachel, Penny Mandel will play Rebecca, Malia Nicolini will play Miriam, and Irene Kessler will play Leah in the production.

In the Voice Of Our Mothers is the second in the Theatre Arts Series at B’nai Torah. The series’ first production, James Sherman’s From Door to Door, directed by Shari Upbin, played to a full house on January 18^th.

In the Voice Of Our Mothers will run for one performance, only – on February 15^th, 2015, at 1 pm at Congregation B’nai Torah in Boca Raton. Tickets are $36 ($25 for congregational members), and may be purchased by calling 561-392-8566 or on line at www.bnai-torah.org. Group rates are available.

For more information about In the Voice Of Our Mothers, GFour Productions, or Shari Upbin, please contact Carol Kassie at ckassie@gmail.com / 561-445-9244. For more information about Rabbi Danielle Upbin and Reveal the Light, visit www.danielleupbin.com .

The Premiere Theatre Arts Series at B’nai Torah
Sunday, February 15, 2015
1:00 pm
GFour Productions & Shari Upbin present
In The Voice Of Our Mothers
Tickets: Elyssa Stark at 561-392-8566 or
Order online at www.bnai-torah.org
Members $25; Non Members $36
B’nai Torah Congregation
6261 SW 18^th Street
Boca Raton, FL 33433
www.bnai-torah.org

Carol Fox Prescott:
Veteran actress, director and teacher, Carol Fox Prescott is one of four master teachers featured in An Actor’s Guide to Qualified Acting Coaches/New York and is referred to as “One of the most influential instructors in this country” in Acting Teachers of America: A Vital Tradition. She coaches nationally and internationally and at her own studio in Woodstock, NY. She is the author of Some of These Days: A Jewish Woman’s Journey through Chutzpah, Passion and Pastry with Sophie Tucker and Breathing, Awareness and Joy, an approach to acting for the twenty-first century.

Shari Upbin:
Shari Upbin (Producer/Director) has been a theatre professional since the age of 13 when she became a member of Actors Equity. (Her father was a writer for Jack Benny). She has been a professional tap dancer and choreographer and is a member of the Society of Stage Directors and Choreographers; she was the president of the League of Professional Theatre Women/New York for seven years, and is currently President of the South Florida chapter of the National Society Of Arts And Letters.
Shari has produced and directed over 50 productions in New York and around the country. Her directing Credits include Vincent, The Passions Of The Artist Van Gogh, Danny And Sylvia at the Forum Theatre in New Jersey. Other credits include Life With Father, Fiddler On The Roof, Cabaret, Jacques Brel, The Roar Of The Greasepaint; she was awarded Best Director for her production of Side By Side By Sondheim..
Florida credits include Broadway Live! and Hollywood Live!, Confessions Of A Jewish Shiksa Dancing On Hitler’s Grave at the Kravis Center, Dames In Divaland, and Womens Minyan by Naomi Regan.
Shari served as assistant director to the world renowned British Director Michael Langham for the first Black/Hispanic Julius Caesar and Coriolanus at the New York Shakespeare Festival with Joe Papp starring Morgan Freeman.
Shari Upbin and Sandi Durell have been long time producing partners in Hollywood Live! and Broadway Live! as well as the Manhattan Association of Cabaret Award nominated Timeless Divas! series with hosts Ben Verreen, Tony Randall, Karen Mason, Tovah Feldshuh , Phyllis Newman, and Leslie Uggams. www.sharellproductions.com

GFour Productions:
GFour Productions & Management now comprises one of the fastest growing production and management companies in the theatrical community. From small regional theatres to Broadway and beyond, this dynamic company has been successful in every aspect of the entertainment landscape. Recent successes include winning the 2013 Tony Award® for their 50th anniversary production of Edward Albee’s Who’s Afraid Of Virginia Woolf; Co-financing the 5 time Tony Award®, 5 time Drama Desk Award®, and 7 time Olivier Award® Winner for Best Musical, Matilda The Musical; Producing the critically acclaimed revivals of The Glass Menagerie starring Cherry Jones and Zachary Quinto, and the history making production of Lady Day At Emerson’s Bar And Grill starring 6 time Tony Award® winner, Audra McDonald; and their most recent launch of the Pulitzer Prize winning play, Disgraced, which The New York Times calls, “Terrific, turbulent, and roaring to life with currents of dramatic electricity!” For more information, please visit GFourProductions.com.

Congregation B’nai Torah is the largest conservative synagogue in South Palm Beach County and has a long and history of being the premier destination for a meaningful Jewish community made rich through prayer, education and social programming.

Praise for In the Voice Of Our Mothers:

“A moving and beautiful gift of a performance has been born. Carol has written pieces that are true to the Biblical text, but tell the story from the women’s point of view, and this in and of itself makes the event worthwhile. But In The Voice of Our Mothers is more than worthwhile; it is good theater, taking us on a journey with these archetypal women brought to full-bodied life. I loved it.” – Rabbi Jonathan Kligler, Woodstock Jewish Congregation, NY

“This is a moving and poetic midrash on the lives of the matriarchs. I was lucky enough to see it performed about a year ago, and moments of the performance come vividly to mind as I write these words. It is a beautiful experience, true to both the biblical text and the lives of women today and long ago.” –Randi Jaffe, Executive director, Brooklyn Heights Synagogue

“In The Voice of Our Mothers, stands on its own for the excellence of its writing, directing, and acting — which are all done by professionals — and yet the discussion that follows among audience members and cast excites everyone fully as much. It has the effect of turning the fellowship hall into a sacred space, which in turn sanctifies the physicality and sensuality of the women’s way of relating to the divine.” – The Rev’d Susan Auchincloss St Gregory’s Episcopal Church,Woodstock, NY

In the Voice of Our Mothers will also be presented at the David Posnack Jewish Community Center, 5850 South Pine Island Road, Davie,
on Thursday, March 12.
Tickets: $20
Contact Debbie Hochman: 954-434-0499

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James Sherman’s FROM DOOR TO DOOR is the Premiere Production of the Theatre Arts Series at B’nai Torah & Producer/Director Shari Upbin

22 Monday Dec 2014

Posted by Carol Kassie in Clients, The Theatre Arts Series at B'nai Torah

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B'nai Torah, Boca Raton Theatre, comedy, Congregation B'nai Torah, From Door to Door, James Sherman, Jewish Theatre, Shari Upbin, The Theatre Arts Series at B'nai Torah

The Theatre Arts Series at B’nai Torah
& Shari Upbin
present
From Door to Door
January 18^th

When a woman reflects on her past as a daughter, a wife, and a mother,
who does she see?

December 22, 2014
BOCA RATON, FL: The B’nai Torah Theatre Arts Series and producer/director Shari Upbin will bring James Sherman’s gentle comedy From Door to Door to the B’nai Torah stage for one performance only on January 18^th 2015. A heartfelt tribute to American women of three generations, From Door to Door explores the influence culture and religion have in shaping life options.

Even as Mary Goodman, a woman of the ‘greatest generation’ is mourning the loss of her husband, her daughter Deborah is encouraging her to end her period of mourning and move on with a new independence. In a series of scenes between Mary, Deborah, and Mary’s mother, Bessie, Mary reflects back on her life as a daughter, wife and mother. Three actresses play the three women over the course of sixty-five years, and as we see Mary’s life progress from childhood to matrimony to motherhood, we begin to understand how each successive generation of women lives up to the expectations of the past and makes brave new choices about the future.

From Door to Door resonates deeply for producer/director Shari Upbin:“In May of 2010 my mother, who was almost 100 years old, passed away,” she explains. “There are so many things I still want to share with her on a daily basis, and one of them is that I’m directing this play where she is quoted in almost every scene! I was at one time, the young one in the cycle of three generations of mothers, and now with my mother and grandmother gone, there are my daughters and their daughters and I have come to wonderful terms with the idea that I am now the grandmother!”

Playwright James Sherman, who has penned a number of hit plays including Beau Jest, God of Isaac, Half and Half, and Jacob and Jack, has also acknowledged the play is deeply personal: “There’s no secret this play is inspired by my mother,” he has said. “I think all plays are autobiographical, the more I think about it. Edward Albee wrote Three Tall Women and those women were New England upper-class, like his family was. The women in my play are Jewish in Chicago because that’s where I was from.”

“But it also must be said that although the three characters are Jewish, this is indeed a most universal story,” Shari Upbin explains. “The sorrows, the laughter, the judgments and resolve are characteristic of women all over the world. We have a story to tell and our children must remember our stories.”

Actresses Renee Rogoff, Phyllis Spear, and Peggy Linker will take on the roles of Bessie, Mary, and Deborah.

: Peggy Linker

: Renee Rogoff

: Phyllis Spear

From Door to Door is the first in the Theatre Arts Series at B’nai Torah. Carol Fox Prescott’s In the Voice of our Mothers will be presented on February 15, 2015. That production, co-produced by Shari Upbin and GFour Productions, will be directed by the playwright,

From Door to Door will run for one performance, only – on January 18^th, 2015, at 1 pm – at Congregation B’nai Torah in Boca Raton. Tickets are $36 ($25 for congregational members), and may be purchased by calling 561-392-8566 or on line at www.bnai-torah.org. Group rates are available.

For more information about From Door to Door, or Shari Upbin, please contact Carol Kassie at ckassie@gmail.com / 561-445-9244.

The Premiere Theatre Arts Series at B’nai Torah
& Shari Upbin present
From Door to Door
By: James Sherman
Directed by Shari Upbin
Sunday, January 18^th at 1 pm
Tickets: $36 ($25 for congregational members)
Phone: 561-392-8566 / http://www.bnai-torah.org/theaterseries2015
B’nai Torah Congregation
6261 SW 18^th Street
Boca Raton, FL 33433
www.bnai-torah.org

Shari Upbin:
Shari Upbin (Producer/Director) has been a theatre professional since the age of 13 when she became a member of Actors Equity. (Her father was a writer for Jack Benny). She has been a professional tap dancer and choreographer and is a member of the Society of Stage Directors and Choreographers; she was the president of the League of Professional Theatre Women/New York for seven years, and is currently President of the South Florida chapter of the National Society Of Arts And Letters.
Shari has produced and directed over 50 productions in New York and around the country. Her directing Credits include Vincent, The Passions Of The Artist Van Gogh, Danny And Sylvia at the Forum Theatre in New Jersey. Other credits include Life With Father, Fiddler On The Roof, Cabaret, Jacques Brel, The Roar Of The Greasepaint; she was awarded Best Director for her production of Side By Side By Sondheim..
Florida credits include Broadway Live! and Hollywood Live!, Confessions Of A Jewish Shiksa Dancing On Hitler’s Grave at the Kravis Center, Dames In Divaland, and Womens Minyan by Naomi Regan.
Shari served as assistant director to the world renowned British Director Michael Langham for the first Black/Hispanic Julius Caesar and Coriolanus at the New York Shakespeare Festival with Joe Papp starring Morgan Freeman.
Shari Upbin and Sandi Durell have been long time producing partners in Hollywood Live! and Broadway Live! as well as the Manhattan Association of Cabaret Award nominated Timeless Divas! series with hosts Ben Verreen, Tony Randall, Karen Mason, Tovah Feldshuh , Phyllis Newman, and Leslie Uggams.

James Sherman:
James Sherman (Playwright) is the author of the plays Magic Time, The God of Isaac, Mr. 80%, The Escape Artist, Beau Jest, This Old Man Came Rolling Home, Jest A Second!, Romance in D, From Door to Door, The Old Man’s Friend, Affluenza!, Half and Half, Relatively Close, and Jacob and Jack. Many of these plays are regularly produced by theatres throughout the United States and have also been seen in Canada, Mexico, South America, England, Germany, Austria, Turkey, South Africa, Australia, China, and Korea.
James currently teaches Playwriting and Improvisation at Columbia College of Chicago and The Theatre School at DePaul University. He has been a teacher of playwriting and acting on the faculties of The Second City Training Center, Chicago Dramatists Workshop, and Victory Gardens Theater. He was a visiting professor for the Spring ’01 semester in Seoul, South Korea, at the Korean National University of the Arts. He has led workshops in improvisation at the Esalen Institute in Big Sur, California.
James Sherman has been the recipient of fellowships from The MacDowell Colony, the Ragdale Foundation, The Virginia Center for the Creative Arts, and Yaddo. He is a member of The Dramatists Guild of America.

Critical Praise for From Door to Door:

“Hilarious and deeply moving” – New York Daily News

“A bittersweet comedy about the blessings and compromises that three generations of women encounter in their pursuit of love, faith and marriage.” – The Atlanta Journal-Constitution

“Because Sherman has all the details right, they hit home hard, and they touch us with their gentle, tried and true sentiment.” – Chicago Tribune

“Sherman’s women are Jews, but their trial and trails are universal.” – Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

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The Florida East Coast Chapter of The National Society for the Arts to honor Palm Beach Opera’s Daniel Biaggi

07 Thursday Feb 2013

Posted by Carol Kassie in Clients, National Society of Arts & Letters

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Daniel Biaggi, Drama, Music, National Society of Arts & Letters, NSAL, Palm Beach Opera, Red Rose Dinner Gala, Royal Palm Yacht & Country Club, Shari Upbin, theatre, Young Artists

Boca Raton, Florida, February 7, 2013:

The Florida East Coast Chapter of The National Society of Arts and Letters will honor Palm Beach Opera’s General Director Daniel Biaggi at their annual Red Rose Dinner Gala on April 4^th at the Royal Palm Yacht and Country Club.

The National Society of Arts and Letters (NSAL) is a National organization founded in 1944, whose mission is to fund, nurture, promote, and assist highly motivated young artists to advance their careers in the artistic disciplines of their choice. Past recipients of NSAL support include Shirley MacLaine, Jessye Norman, and more recently, the organization’s 2004 Musical Theatre winner Megan Hilty, who is currently starring in NBC’s Broadway based hit SMASH.

The award-winning Florida East Coast Chapter, a non-profit, volunteer organization established in 1983, continues to further the Society’s goals.

The aims and objectives of NSAL are to discover talented young people at the beginning of their careers; to create opportunities for career development and expression in Literature, and the Visual and Performing Arts; and to recognize excellence by granting awards via national and local rotating competitions in Art, Dance, Drama, Literature, Music (instrumental and voice), Opera, and Musical Theatre to gifted young artists between the ages of 16 and 32. The Florida East Coast Chapter holds one major competition per year.

In 2011 the Chapter began its Performing Arts High School Scholarship program, and in 2012 they awarded a total of $9,000 in scholarships to various students at Alexander W. Dreyfoos School of the Arts, Dillard Center for the Arts, and the New World School of the Arts. They also contributed $3,000 towards the National Society of Arts and Letters Lynn University Scholarship for Strings, Piano, and Theatre Arts.
NSAL president Shari Upbin, NSAL Vice President Marilyn Nelson and singer/songwriter Chloe Dolandis

In May, 2012 The Florida East Coast Chapter was the first winner of the newly established NSAL National Arts Advocate Award for their continuing efforts to identify, encourage and support young South Florida talent.

Now entering his fourth season as General Director of the Palm Beach Opera, Daniel Biaggi is committed to expanding the company’s mission of presenting high quality opera productions and engaging educational and community outreach performances to the communities it serves. Under his leadership, the company celebrated its 50^th Anniversary last season with two Golden Jubilee concerts featuring many of opera’s past and present stars in addition to three fully staged productions at the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts. To continue expanding its impact in the community, the company is holding the first collaboration with the Lynn University Conservatory of Music to present a Young Artist Production at the Wold Performing Arts Center, as well as an outdoor opera concert at the Meyer Amphitheater at the Waterfront in West Palm Beach.

A frequent panel discussion guest and competition judge, Mr. Biaggi served as Advisor and Judge for the National Society of Arts and Letters Local Florida Chapter Vocal Competition in 2008. Mr. Biaggi has also served as panelist for the Opera America Conference in Denver, and has been a jury member for the Tucker Foundation Career Grant Competition and Awards Nomination Panel, Dallas Opera Guild Vocal Competition, Jensen Foundation Vocal Competition, and the Shreveport Opera Singer of the Year Competition. His commitment to Young Singers has led him to be invited to MissionAudition as part of Sherrill Milnes’ V.O.I.C.Experience, NYIOP pre-selection auditions in New York, Berlin and Zurich. He has also served as Advisor and Judge for the National Society of Arts and Letters Local Florida Chapter Competition. Daniel Biaggi holds a Post-Graduate and Master’s Degree in Vocal Performance from the Manhattan School of Music, a Bachelor of Music Degree from the San Francisco Conservatory of Music, and a Certificate of Musicology from the University of Berne, Switzerland. As a classically trained singer, Mr. Biaggi has performed operatic roles and recitals in the US as well as Europe.

As NSAL Florida East Coast Chapter President, Shari Upbin brings a deep theatrical background to the organization (her father was a writer for Jack Benny). She is producer/director who has been a theatre professional since the age of 13 when she became a member of Actors Equity; she has been a professional tap dancer and choreographer and is a member of the Society of Stage Directors and Choreographers; and she has produced and directed over 50 productions in New York and around the country.
Jan McArt, Judi Asselta, Alyce Erickson, Shari Upbin

Upbin, who brings her considerable talent and energies to NSAL is passionate and excited about the young people the Society supports, “It is an honor and a privilege to serve as NSAL president,” she says. “This organization is an excellent example of ‘pay it forward’. Our chapter has opened doors through our competitions for so many ‘Stars of Tomorrow’. Some of our recent winners are already fulfilling the promise we saw in them: Nadine Sierra has performed at the Met in NY, Krista Ettlinger danced at the Dutch National Ballet, Jose Luaces starred on Broadway in A CHRISTMAS STORY, Gelan Lambert appeared on Broadway in the hit show FELA!, and Kassie Abreu was selected to dance at the Duncan Theatre in Palm Beach. As a theatre producer and director I am thrilled to be part of such a necessary and vital organization.”

Nadine Sierra will be one of the performers at the Red Rose Dinner Gala

Alyce Erickson, who has been involved with the organization since the early 80’s is equally committed. The organization’s work has become even more important “since they started cutting out arts and arts funding in schools,” she explains. “We had only been looking for students in Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach County, and working closely with the schools to identify, work with, and support these incredibly talented young people. But in May 2012, we expanded our search to encompass the entire eastern coast of Florida and Gainesville.”

For more information about The Florida East Coast Chapter of The National Society of Arts and Letters, The Red Rose Dinner Gala, Daniel Biaggi, or Shari Upbin, contact Carol Kassie (ckassie@gmail.com / 561-445-9244), or visit www.nsalbocaraton.org/ or
www.arts-nsal.org/

The NSAL Red Rose Dinner Gala
Thursday, April 4^th
6:00 pm
Royal Palm Yacht and Country Club
2425 Maya Palm Drive West
Boca Raton, FL 33432
Tickets: $225
To purchase tickets please call: Alyce Erickson – 561-391-6380

Carol Kassie

~ Theatrical Marketing & Public Relations

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The Florida East Coast Chapter of The National Society for the Arts to honor Palm Beach Opera’s Daniel Biaggi