To commemorate the Broadway smash hit, NBC announced a well-timed Halloween special “A Very Wicked Halloween: Celebrating 15 years on Broadway” that will air on Monday, October 29th.

Here’s what Wicked fans can expect for the musical special:

Beloved Songs

The one-hour television special is set to be a celebration of song, with acts performing the beloved tunes from the hit Broadway show. A full list of included songs has yet to be released, but that hasn’t stopped fans from speculating and hoping that their favorites will be on deck that evening. Fan footage shot of Ariana Grande at the recent taping confirms her as the performer of the powerhouse number “The Wizard and I.”

Reprising the Roles

You can’t say “Wicked” without thinking of the ladies who made Elphaba and Galinda household names in the Broadway world. Acclaimed Broadway legends Idina Menzel and Kristin Chenoweth will reunite for the night and treat audiences to a reprise of the friendship we’ve all been missing.

Past and Present

Chenoweth and Menzel won’t be the only leading ladies onstage for the evening. Glindas and Elphabas from previous shows will join in the celebration, taking the stage with the OGs. Fans can even score a sneak peek of the current production, as Broadway’s Glinda, Amanda Jane Cooper, and Elphaba, Jessica Vosk, will be amongst the group. Other members of the current Broadway company will make appearances through the evening as well.

From Fans to Featured Performers

Wicked has garnered fans of all ages over the years, including those with famous names and faces. Never shy about expressing her love for the show, Ariana Grande is confirmed to perform and fan footage of her performance created buzz when it recently made the rounds online. And Grande isn’t the only big name to pay homage to the show. Popular acapella group Pentatonix is set to perform, as well as “Wicked” alumni Adam Lambert, and multi-talented actress/singer Ledisi.

Behind the Scenes

There would be nothing to celebrate without composer and lyricist Stephen Schwartz, so naturally, he will grace the stage during the show. Filmed at the famous Marquis Theater in New York, the night is sure to be hit with Emmy and Tony-winning Producer Mark Platt at the helm, as well as additional members of the original Broadway team, Ricky Kirshner and Glenn Weiss.

So grab all of your favorite witches, light a few jack-o-lanterns, and celebrate a return to the land of ruby slippers, the yellow brick road, and magical possibility. There’s no place like home.

Channel: NBC Time: 10/9c

You May Like: Quiz: Which Wicked Character Are You?

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Here’s why Justin Peck is a name you’ll want to know:

1. Twice as Nice

After taking up ballet in his early teens, Peck eventually moved to New York to pursue dance further. Continuing his training for several years, he was invited to join the New York City Ballet at 18. Fast-forward, and he’s not only a soloist with the company, but also the resident choreographer, a position he has held since 2014. Peck is the youngest choreographer ever to hold New York City Ballet’s prestigious title.

2. Triple Award Winner in 2018

Peck’s choreography quickly became the star of the Broadway revival of “Carousel.” His effort was rewarded when he walked out of awards season with a Tony Award, Drama Desk Award, and Outer Critics Circle Award for Best Choreography. Not a bad review for your first choreographing gig on Broadway!

3. Fascinating Subject

With his name buzzing in the ballet world, Peck’s process was put on display in 2014 when he was the subject of the documentary “Ballet 422.” The film follows Peck from beginning to end as he creates an original ballet. His passion and genius are as memorable as his finished work.

4. More Than Just Ballet

In addition to his musical foray with “Carousel,” Peck has worked with fashion designers, musicians and even Hollywood. Peck was tapped to choreograph and consult on the ballet scenes in the recent film “Red Sparrow,” starring Jennifer Lawrence.

5. Known for Taking Risks

Ballet is a classical form of which Peck is clearly a fan, beginning his career as a ballet dancer. But it’s hard to ignore his equal love of modern music and concepts, mixing old with new. Challenging the norms has become a regular part of Peck’s repertoire. This includes mixing dance styles — originally a tap dancer before taking on ballet in his early teens, Peck is known for combining the two styles to create beautifully intricate footwork and combinations.

6. Social Media Presence

Peck’s intention to make ballet more accessible shows in his created dance videos and regular social media presence. His account is a behind-the-scenes delve into the life of a dancer and creative as he often posts his works in progress on his Instagram account.

With his recent slew of awards over this past year, Peck is now one of the most sought-after choreographers, and the world is waiting to see what project he tackles next.

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But it is the women of the “Ziegfeld Follies” whose stories and achievements are often ignored in favor of those about the man who employed them.

Louise Brooks

Young Louise Brooks began her career as a dancer, joining the Denishawn company in the early 1920s. She eventually joined Ziegfeld’s prominent “Ziegfeld Follies” as a dancer in 1925. Her appearance in the Follies was what got the attention of Hollywood after she was offered a movie studio contract, launching her career as a film star. Known for being rebellious, Brooks believed in taking risks as a film actress and didn’t shy away from controversial roles, including those involving nudity and modern ideas around sexuality. Brooks moved to Europe at the end of the 1920s after being refused a pay increase. When she spurned movie studios upon her return at the start of the 30s, the roles began to dry up. Brooks worked a variety of odd jobs after her movie career ended, including that of a courtesan. In her later years, she came back into the public eye as a film writer. A selection of her stories can be read in the memoir “Lulu in Hollywood.” She died from a heart attack at the age of 85.

Olive Thomas

Thanks to her untimely death and the rumor that her ghost regularly haunts the New Amsterdam Theatre, Olive Thomas is one of the most infamous women to come out of the “Ziegfeld Follies.” After fleeing small-town life for New York City, Olive Thomas had her first brush with fame when she won a competition and earned her the title of “The Most Beautiful Girl in New York City.” It wasn’t long after that Thomas earned herself a place onstage as one of Ziegfeld’s girls. She found great success performing in Ziegfeld’s racy after hours show on the rooftop of the New Amsterdam Theatre.

Eventually, Thomas transitioned to acting in films. During this time, she also married Hollywood royalty in the form of Jack Pickford, brother of famous actress Mary Pickford. On a trip to Paris with her husband, an intoxicated Thomas died at the age of 25 after ingesting poison, the circumstances surrounding which remain unclear.

Kay Laurell

Scouted by Ziegfeld while modeling at an Illustrators’ Ball, Kay Laurel joined the Ziegfeld Follies in 1914. Laurel is best known for appearing nude from the waist up on stage in selective artistic tableaus. Laurel was celebrated for her femininity and revered on Broadway for her beauty. After her success in the Follies, Laurel tried her luck at being a silent film actress but eventually transitioned back to stage work. Like many women of her time, Laurel met her untimely demise during childbirth at the age of 36.

Helen Morgan

Helen Morgan, who was studying music in New York, first took the stage in Ziegfeld’s production of “Sally” in 1923, before joining the Follies in 1931. Morgan is most notable for having played Julie in the original cast of “Show Boat” in 1927. Her work as a film actress included two film productions of Show Boat, while also continuing with the stage work, including a Broadway production of “Sweet Adeline.”
An avid drinker during Prohibition, Morgan ran into trouble with the law because of her involvement with nightclubs and speakeasies in New York. Her weakness for alcohol finally caught up with her, and at 41 she died from cirrhosis of the liver due to alcohol abuse.

Barbara Stanwyck

Orphaned and raised by her sister, Barbara Stanwyck took a series of odd jobs to make ends meet before becoming a Ziegfeld girl in 1922. Stanwyck worked as a chorus girl for several years before landing a role in the play “The Noose.” This led to her casting in 1927’s “Burlesque,” which launched her into a successful film career. Stanwyck enjoyed success as a film actress until the 1950s and opted to transition into work in television. Throughout the 1980s, Stanwyck received recognition for her achievements as an actress, including an Academy Award and a Golden Globe Award. She died of heart failure at the age of 82.

Fanny Brice

While not one of Ziegfeld’s dancing girls, actress, singer, and comedienne Fanny Brice was undoubtedly one of Ziegfeld’s stars. Working alongside Irving Berlin, Brice won over audiences night after night with her comedy and her singing. She became a consistent performer in Follies productions, and even after the Follies finished, Brice found success in radio and on Broadway. Her name was further immortalized by Barbara Streisand in both a stage production and film of “Funny Girl,” about Brice.

Marilyn Miller

Marilyn Miller joined the Follies in 1918 and worked successfully with Ziegfeld as a headliner in his productions, until a disagreement, which sent her to his competitor in 1924. They later reunited and Miller was once again cast in Ziegfeld’s productions, performing the music of George Gershwin. During her time as a Broadway actress, Miller worked alongside legends like Irving Berlin, Jerome Kern, and Fred Astaire. Miller dabbled in film, but found her greatest success as a stage actress, including hits “Sally” and “Rosalie.” She died at 37 from complications after nasal passage surgery. In “Til the Clouds Go By” a fictionalized film about Jerome Kern, Miller was played by the legendary Judy Garland. It’s also worth noting that Miller was at one point married to the famous Jack Pickford, who also wed Ziegfeld girl Olive Thomas.

Ruth Etting

Singer Ruth Etting joined Follies in 1927 and performed in several other Broadway shows, including those mounted by Ziegfeld. After dazzling Broadway audiences, Etting turned to Hollywood, but could only find work as a singer, not an actress.

Offstage, Etting’s personal life had more drama than a soap opera thanks to her tumultuous marriage and divorce to gangster Moe Snyder. After finding love with pianist Myrl Alderman, also separated from his spouse, Etting’s ex-husband threatened to kill them both. Following an attempt on their lives, a messy set of trials and lawsuits ensued for Etting, Alderman, and Snyder. In 1955, Doris Day played Etting in “Love Me or Leave Me,” a film based on her Etting’s life and career.

While it is hard to ignore the objectification of women at the Follies and during that time in history in general, there are signs of early feminism that took place at the New Amsterdam Theatre. In an era when sexuality was taboo, the women of the Follies expressed and celebrated their sexuality instead of being shamed by it. Additionally, in a period when women weren’t meant to be working, these young women maintained some autonomy over their futures and earned an income for their stage talents instead of being forced to depend on a husband. And there is no question that the women who successfully took the stage in the “Ziegfeld Follies” didn’t train hard to learn the elaborate numbers. While it is naïve and idealistic to believe that these women were fully formed feminist warriors who did not husband hunt amongst their clientele, it is important to remember that even small steps towards progress are still steps in the right direction and should be evaluated in the context of the era in which they took place. In their own way, these women helped to lay the groundwork for those who came behind them, strengthening female presence both on and off stage.

Who are your favorite actresses of early 20th century Broadway? Let us know in the comments below…

The post Broadway’s Beauties: The Famous Women Of The Ziegfeld Follies appeared first on Theatre Nerds.

And while Broadway does have its yearly Tony Awards to celebrate and honor outstanding artistic achievement, but what if it also had its own Olympics in which arts and sports collided?

Here are nine awards we’d like to see given out at the Broadway Olympics:

1. Highest Note

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Singing does require a certain amount of natural talent, but singers also train and keep their vocal chords in healthy shape to sing at their highest level. It’s safe to say that anyone who plays Christine in “The Phantom of the Opera” would likely qualify for this event.

2. Fastest Quick-Change

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Actors could give Olympic sprinters a run for their money when it comes to making a costume change before reappearing onstage in record time.

3. Most Difficult Dance Sequence Completed Without Falling

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Similar to figure skating or gymnastics, this event’s judging would examine artistic factors and difficulty. Newspaper dancing, anyone?

4. Longest-Lasting Stage Makeup

The sweat is real, and making it through a show without sweating off makeup can be a race of its own.

5. Longest Dance Sequence

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Speaking of sweat, who doesn’t love a big, rousing dance number? Mix equal parts sweat with stamina, and those dancers leave everyone wondering how they haven’t collapsed from exhaustion.

6. Longest Note Held

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Audiences love when singers blow their minds by holding a note longer than anyone ever thought humanly possible. Work those diaphragms, people!

7. Most Intense Sexual Tension

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This is the you-could-cut-that-craziness-with-a-knife-and-why-can’t-these-two-just-get-it-together-already kind that has you shipping that couple throughout the show and long after you leave the theatre.

8. Most Convincing Death Scene

This event requires precision, emotional depth, and the right physicality to make it believable. The combination needs to be exact, which means there is a higher likelihood of getting it wrong. Done right, and audiences should be left ugly-crying their hearts out.

9. Best Stage Combat Sequence

Stage combat is a lot like dancing. Choreographed sequences require actors to hit each mark at precisely the right time to avoid the risk of injury. Footwork, prop wielding and turns are only a few of the things actors must remember while also delivering lines and remaining in character. It takes fencing to a whole other level.

It takes work to hone a craft of any kind — and more than winning the award itself, part of the draw to the Olympics is seeing someone finally achieve that goal they set for themselves. So, if your dream is to be up on that stage someday, study those who are successful in the arts but also look beyond to those at the top of other fields, like athletics. Inspiration can come from the most surprising places.

If Broadway had its own Olympics, what events would you want to see? Let us know in the comments below…

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Uncovering these tales is Karina Longworth, a Los Angeles-based journalist, author and film critic whose podcast, “You Must Remember This,” is a peek behind the curtain in Hollywood during the creation of legendary performances.

Wondering why you should tune in? Here are a few reasons:

1. Dramatic Retellings Play Out Like a Radio Theatre Performance

The podcast is like a play where Longworth is the lead and sometimes only actor, and she’s brilliant. She weaves tales of Old Hollywood, creating the light levels of drama and intrigue without over-the-top theatrics or special effects.

2. Learn How the Most Iconic Names Broke Into the Business

There are lessons to be gained from Hollywood giants such as Audrey Hepburn and Grace Kelly, as well as from those who fell short of icon status, including Barbara Payton.

3. There Are Little-Known Behind-the-Scenes Tales

Many a famous star is the subject of Longworth’s examination, but the tales are more than just the basics. Every episode is an in-depth look that goes beyond the famed details and publicized scandals. Longworth does her research and finds the untold stories while simultaneously humanizing her subjects.

4. History Matters

Not learning from the past leads to repetition, so it’s important to know where you’ve come from when deciding where you’re going. There is value in examining your predecessors as a member of the theatre and creative arts community.

While early Hollywood saw its fair share of success and innovation, the studios also underwent dark times. Longworth doesn’t shy away from such moments — instead, she puts them under the microscope, as seen in her series about the Blacklist.

5. There’s No Drama Better Than Drama That’s True

There are stories uncovered that couldn’t be more theatrical if a writer had put pen to paper and dreamed them to life, giving truth to the notion that there are good ideas everywhere. History is full of inspiration for those in search of a good story.

6. It’s a Model of How to Weave a Story

Longworth is a stickler for research — and she does a lot of it. She is well-known for combing through books, newspapers, old films and accounts to ensure each story is represented fairly on all sides. Arguably one of the elements that makes her podcast so popular is her ability to take a known account and find a different version or a new angle. Playwrights, take note.

7. There Are Revolutionary Examples of Actresses Fighting to Break the Mold

The struggle of actresses is not a new story and unfortunately still persists today. Classic Hollywood actresses are often most notorious for their love affairs with famous men, their sex appeal and their deaths. Longworth doesn’t ignore these factors, but she does bring the focus back to their careers, highlighting their achievements in the arts and their fight to be taken seriously in their industry.

“You Must Remember This,” which is distributed by Panoply, has been airing since 2014 and just launched a brand-new season on July 3. If you are new to Longworth’s online story hour, be sure to start working your way through the back catalog before you begin the new season. Then, just relax and enjoy a new kind of travel this summer as you journey back in time.

Do you have a favorite episode of “You Must Remember This?” Let us know in the comments below…

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Here are 20 items all drama teachers should have in their classrooms:

1. Book of Improv Games

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If class finishes early, you are stuck for a lesson or are looking for a way to engage students at the start of class, you can’t go wrong with improv games. Amazon offers several choices in books on the subject, or you can purchase sets from educator resource site Teachers Pay Teachers.

2. Box of Costumes and Props

Be it an in-class activity or a school production, having costumes and props available is essential. It may take some time to accumulate a decent stash of items, but start by asking friends or family if they have anything they are looking to get rid of or cruise local garage sales. Dollar stores, craft stores and discount stores are great for finding more specialized pieces at low prices and often have coupons or teacher discounts. Or, enlist the help of creative students or staff to make costumes and props.

Never get rid of costumes and props used in a production, unless they’re borrowed, broken or rented. You never know when they could be useful again. Be sure to find plastic bins, crates or even a trunk for storage to keep your collection in good condition.

3. Sharpie Markers

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Whether you are labeling tape-marked spots onstage, teacher resources or writing on chart paper, Sharpie markers are multipurpose and always useful. Consider investing in a few mini Sharpie markers that come with keychain clips for easy access.

4. Quality Speakers

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Teaching a movement class? Showing a film clip? Just listening to music? Poor-quality speakers mean students can’t hear and will either miss a crucial point you’re trying to make or disengage with the lesson. It’s worth doing some research and purchasing a high-quality set of speakers that will last.

5. Organizational Storage

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Drama classes by nature are more interactive, but that doesn’t mean they have to be disorganized. Avoid chaos and allow your students to have independence by maintaining an organized and structured classroom. Whether it’s bins, shelves, cubbies or carts, the options are extensive. Check out Pinterest for tips and ideas for classroom storage and organization.

6. Art Supplies

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Allow your students to thrive in inspiring moments and engage in the creative process. Having art supplies on hand gives them the freedom to follow their creativity for an assignment or school production. Speak to your administration about budget for such items before purchasing any on your own.

7. Glue Gun and Duct Tape

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There’s nothing this pair can’t do.

8. Jar of Safety Pins

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Basic uses include fitting a costume, but safety pins are also great for fastening items to stage curtains or backdrops or even transforming costume pieces into something completely different with creative pinning.

9. Butcher Paper

Drawing, brainstorming and creating backdrops for classroom performances are just a few ways you can use butcher paper. The long rolls of paper are easy to store, economical and more versatile than regular plain paper.

10. LCD Projector or TV

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Being able to show video clips and multimedia during your lessons is helpful to keep your students engaged and spark ideas.

11. Clipboards

Many drama classrooms opt not to have desks to allow for more space to move around. Clipboards are a great alternative when students need to make notes, write creatively or complete an activity. They also come in handy for productions when you need to organize copies of the script and design notes for members of your backstage and technical crew.

12. Piano or Keyboard

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A piano opens more opportunities for your students to be creative and inventive. A budding Sondheim could be among your students, and creating a space that lets them explore the different areas of theatre could be the spark they need. It’s also useful for musical auditions and rehearsals.

13. Performance Space

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If you are given a regular classroom space, it can be helpful to designate where the “stage” will be. Some teachers create a small platform within their room, while others mark the space with an area rug or colorful duct tape. Remember to review safety regulations within your school before deciding how you will design your space.

14. Notice Board

Find wall space to hang a cork board where you can advertise arts opportunities such as audition notices, community theatre groups, theatre performance posts or post-secondary programs. Check with your administration before posting anything from a source outside of the school, as some schools have policies around what can be advertised to the student body.

15. Foam Ball

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Tossing a ball back and forth around the classroom is a fun way to call on students and engage them in the lesson or discussion by asking the student holding the foam ball to be the one to speak. It’s also an active way to review terminology by having the students toss the ball while quizzing each other.

16. Small Sewing Kit

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You never know if there is a budding designer in your midst. Give your students the freedom to explore their imagination and create costume pieces for their performances.

17. Overhead Projector

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With many schools transitioning to using document cameras and smart boards, overhead projectors are collecting dust somewhere in the school. Rescue them and give them a new lease on life as budget spotlights for performances in class.

18. Inspirational Décor

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Make your room a haven for creativity. Hang up old playbills, posters of shows and examples of those who have found success in creative careers. Also, artwork with motivational phrases can be the encouragement some students need to engage and move outside of their comfort zones.

You can also engage students with fun, decorative items. One of my high school music teachers kept a plastic lawn gnome on his desk that had been given to him by a student as a joke. Students always asked about it when first entering his class, and it eventually became the class mascot.

19. Stage Direction Sign

It is surprisingly easy to forget the difference between stage right and stage left when you are also trying to stay in character, read lines, act, sing or dance. Having a reference poster or two for stage directions allows students to reference it independently and saves you from having to repeat the directions numerous times.

20. Buzzer

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Presentations and improve games can get chaotic and noisy. Avoid shouting to get their attention and use a buzzer, bell or noisemaker instead. Your voice will thank you.

While all of these items are an excellent support for programming, ultimately, the passion for the subject matter is the most important thing to have in every classroom. And luckily, that’s priceless.

What items do you think are helpful for drama teachers? Let us know in the comments below…

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Our great aunt lived in a small town in eastern Canada, and we spent several of our summers visiting her. The small collection of locals all knew us by name, and the downtown core consisted of a general store, two restaurants, a one-room library, the church and a gas station/video store. Yes, my friends, these were the days of video stores. Thanks to that store, I was introduced to Rodgers and Hammerstein classics collection and my world was never the same. Those summer nights were spent watching Julie Andrews spin through the hills of Austria, Mitzi Gaynor dance across a tropical island and Deborah Kerr waltz through Siam. I desperately wanted more.

In the small town I grew up in, “theatre” was a foreign word. If you wanted to see a show, you had to drive to Toronto or fly to New York. My parents did their best to take us to see musicals that came up to Toronto on tour, and it was from those experiences I realized that I needed to be a part of the theatre world. As a nerdy child, I struggled to find where I fit, and watching those productions made me feel less like an outcast.

It wasn’t until I started teaching theatre and music that I realized how few young people have access to life theatre. A touring production of “Memphis” came through Toronto, and I picked up a DVD recording of the show at the merch booth at intermission. I showed clips of it to a class of students the following week. It was so quiet in the room that you could have heard a pin drop. They loved the musical so much that I spent the next two weeks listening to them hum it to themselves. I got similar results when I showed the “Hamilton” cast’s performance of “Alexander Hamilton” from the Grammy Awards. Hands went up, and the kids asked where they could see more of that.

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But even matinee student tickets to a show cost more than many young people and their families can afford. That leaves recordings, which are the closest thing to a live performance some can get so that even kids in small, rural towns can be transported to Broadway and beyond.

In an interview on Late Night With Seth Meyers, actor Andrew Rannells recalled that he discovered Broadway as a kid in Nebraska through filmed broadcasts of Broadway shows. The actor recently starred in a revival of “Falsettos” that aired on “Live from Lincoln Centre” on PBS back in October. Like Rannells, having access to recordings of Broadway shows opens the arts up to everyone, in all parts of the world, regardless of age or socioeconomic status.

Television is doing its part by staging live musical versions of popular hits such as “Grease,” “Hairspray” and the upcoming “Rent.” But what about shows with less of a cult following or recent hits such as “Dear Evan Hansen?”

There needs to be an investment in making Broadway more accessible to the public, or future Audra McDonalds or Lin-Manuel Mirandas may slip through the cracks, never knowing theatre is within the realm of possibility.

Access to the dramatic arts allows young people to enter another world that they might not otherwise know. It gives a voice and perspective to those whose stories go unheard or misunderstood. For young people who are forming their view of the world and themselves, the exposure to a new way of thinking could be the turning point. This is especially true if they are struggling to see themselves and where they belong — because everyone belongs in the theatre. In the theatre, we are heard, and we are not alone.

Do you think there should be more recordings of Broadway shows? Let us know in the comments below…

The post A Call For More Film Recordings Of Broadway Shows appeared first on Theatre Nerds.

This Oscar-nominated film is now set for a resurgence as it prepares to make its debut in Boston. Here’s what fans can expect from the upcoming production:

1. High-Profile Leads

The iconic roles of Christian and Satine, played by Hollywood heavyweights in the film, have received their onstage equivalents. Tony Award-winning actress Karen Olivo will take on Nicole Kidman’s famed role, while Broadway favorite Aaron Tveit will fill in Ewan McGregor’s shoes. Check out Tveit singing the film’s iconic song “Come What May” and try not to fall in love.

2. From Boston to Broadway

The show will spend the summer in Boston playing at the Emerson Colonial Theatre, with previews running from July 10 until Aug. 19. The show was forced to push its original performance schedule due to a construction issue. While an official date has not been set, “Moulin Rouge” is looking to transfer to Broadway for the upcoming 2018/2019 season.

3. So You Think You Can Dance

Fans of “So You Think You Can Dance” will recognize the name Sonya Tayeh, who has set her sights on the choreography for this show. Emmy-nominated Tayeh is known for her innovative work in the dance world, which will marry perfectly with this unique production.

4. Historical Period Pieces With a Twist

The “Moulin Rouge” stage adaptation was written by John Logan, whose recent credits include producing the Tony-nominated “Natasha, Pierre and the Great Comet of 1812.” Both shows put a modern twist on a historical plot from a similar time period, with stunning results. Logan’s experience with “Natasha, Pierre and the Great Comet of 1812” could lend itself well to creating a similar experience with “Moulin Rouge.”

5. Modern Music Flare

Part of what has made Luhrmann’s film so beloved was the use of popular music in the soundtrack. “Come What May” was the only original song used in the movie. The stage adaptation will use songs that appeared in the film and additional hit songs that became popular since the film’s debut.

Cult classics moving to Broadway is not a new idea, and recent results are mixed. While “Mean Girls” flourished, “Amélie” flopped. In the meantime, audiences will have to wait with bated breath for “Moulin Rouge” to debut, come what may.

Are you a “Moulin Rouge” fan? What are you hoping to see in the stage adaptation? Let us know in the comments below…

The post What To Expect From The Stage Adaptation Of ‘Moulin Rouge’ appeared first on Theatre Nerds.

Here are some of our picks for Broadway’s best dresses:

1. Gigi from ‘Gigi’

Vanessa Hudgens was the picture of elegance in Broadway’s recent revival of “Gigi.” It’s hard to choose between the gorgeous classically cut black and white gowns that Gigi dons as she grows up.

2. Lise from ‘An American in Paris’

The simple and sweet polka-dot dress shows its own sass with a swinging skirt and an eye-catching shade of blue. Gorgeous!

3. Natasha from ‘Natasha, Pierre and the Great Comet of 1812’

Natasha’s empire-waisted white gown is delicate with its lace sleeves, yet glamorous with its embellishments.

4. Anastasia from ‘Anastasia’

It’s hard to choose between all of the dreamy dresses costume designer Linda Cho made for Broadway’s “Anastasia.” Between the stunning navy dress inspired by the animated film to the original bold, red gown created for the show, it’s a royal fantasy come to life.

5. Christine from ‘The Phantom of the Opera’

Christine’s white dress is fit for a diva with its many gorgeous layers and romantic ruffles. It’s definitely a gown worthy of a high note.

6. Lola from ‘Kinky Boots’

Short and sequined, this dress created by “Kinky Boots” costume designer Gregg Barnes is runway-ready and the definition of fierce. Look out, Beyoncé!

7. Glinda from ‘Wicked’

Glinda’s gorgeous cake-topper blue ball gown is likely her most infamous look in the musical, but it’s her svelte school arrival outfit that has us swooning. The tailored, clean lines work well with the delicate ruffles at the bottom of the skirt. Plus, what’s not to love about that adorable hat?

8. Diana Ross ‘Motown the Musical’

Diana Ross is a musical and style icon in “Motown the Musical” thanks to costume designer Emilio Sosa. It’s hard not to be blinded by all of the bling on this fiery gown and ruffled overcoat, giving the appearance of a majestic phoenix gliding across the stage.

9. Anna from ‘The King and I’

Lavender never looked so beautiful in a gown fit for a queen. That ball gown deserves a spin around the room and perhaps its own parade.

10. Roxie from ‘Chicago’

From its choreography to its costumes, there is no musical sexier than “Chicago.” Roxie’s iconic short dress manages to be both sexy and sleek with its long lace sleeves.

11. Dolly from ‘Hello, Dolly!’

It’s no question that this dress is a stunner, but it’s the fantastic headpiece that makes the ensemble. If making an entrance is the goal, this headpiece ticks all the boxes.

12. Ursula from ‘The Little Mermaid’

The creativity and intricacies of this dress make it a piece of art. Octopus legs cascading from either side accompany the figure-hugging dress designed with the appearance of scales. Being bad never looked so good.

There are many outstanding frocks created for Broadway stages every year that the Tony Awards really should give them their own category.

Who do you think should be the winner for best dress? Let us know in the comments below…

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There is a risk anytime we foray into the dating world, but it’s even greater if you, as the expression goes, “poop where you eat.” So, if you are considering seeking romance in a stage setting, you may want to weigh the positives and negatives.

Here are some of the pros and cons of dating a fellow member of the theatre:

Pro: You can play the songs from your new show repeatedly, and while they may want to rip their ears off, they are more likely to understand.

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Con: An overabundance of feelings. All. The. Time.

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Pro: Someone will understand the pressure of Tech Week and the insanity it causes, so they won’t just think you’ve turned into a mental case.

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Con: There can be an underlying sense of competition that creeps in when one of you scores a leading role and the other doesn’t.

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Pro: You can rehearse your scenes and discover your characters’ motivations together.

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Con: You both spend a lot of time on something that may not make you any money at the end of the day. The struggle will be very real.

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Pro: They are less likely to get jealous watching you in a romantic scene with someone else.

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Con: Jealousy. Yes, this can also be a con. It is hopefully just acting, but sometimes you can’t help it when you see your partner being romantic with someone else. Unfortunately, feelings aren’t always logical.

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Pro: You can talk about the show ad nauseam and they won’t just stare at you blankly.

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Con: You may find yourself cast in different shows and on opposite schedules, so it can be difficult to find time for each other.

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Pro: You get to watch each other be brilliant onstage. It’s as much a proud moment as it is a turn-on.

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Con: Weekend and sometimes holiday unavailability.

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Pro: You can support each other through the marathons that are auditions. It’s always nice to have a partner who can double as a cheerleader and a coach.

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Con: Fights can quickly spiral given all of the dramatic potential in the room, especially if one or both of you are capable of crying on cue.

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Pro: Very little fazes you both. Changing in front of strangers? Piece of cake. Swearing? Heard it all. Dirty humor? You could write a book.

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Con: There’s no separation of church and state, especially if you are in the same show. You are together A LOT. And it can be hard to separate your personal life from the show. Issues from the theatre can get dragged home.

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Whether the relationship ends up being the love of your life or goes up in flames faster than dry grass in the dead heat of summer, you will hopefully have discovered a new part of yourself along the way. So take your shot, explore and find someone who sets your heart on fire as much as being onstage does.

Have you ever dated someone in the theatre? What are the pros and cons? Let us know in the comments below!

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