WP_Query Object ( [query] => Array ( [reaction] => angry ) [query_vars] => Array ( [reaction] => angry [error] => [m] => [p] => 0 [post_parent] => [subpost] => [subpost_id] => [attachment] => [attachment_id] => 0 [name] => [pagename] => [page_id] => 0 [second] => [minute] => [hour] => [day] => 0 [monthnum] => 0 [year] => 0 [w] => 0 [category_name] => [tag] => [cat] => [tag_id] => [author] => [author_name] => [feed] => [tb] => [paged] => 0 [meta_key] => [meta_value] => [preview] => [s] => [sentence] => [title] => [fields] => [menu_order] => [embed] => [category__in] => Array ( ) [category__not_in] => Array ( ) [category__and] => Array ( ) [post__in] => Array ( ) [post__not_in] => Array ( ) [post_name__in] => Array ( ) [tag__in] => Array ( ) [tag__not_in] => Array ( ) [tag__and] => Array ( ) [tag_slug__in] => Array ( ) [tag_slug__and] => Array ( ) [post_parent__in] => Array ( ) [post_parent__not_in] => Array ( ) [author__in] => Array ( ) [author__not_in] => Array ( ) [post_type] => Array ( [0] => post [1] => snax_quiz [2] => snax_poll ) [orderby] => date [order] => DESC [ignore_sticky_posts] => [suppress_filters] => [cache_results] => [update_post_term_cache] => 1 [lazy_load_term_meta] => 1 [update_post_meta_cache] => 1 [posts_per_page] => 36 [nopaging] => [comments_per_page] => 40 [no_found_rows] => [taxonomy] => reaction [term] => angry [plugin_required_notice_slot_id] => Before content theme area ) [tax_query] => WP_Tax_Query Object ( [queries] => Array ( [0] => Array ( [taxonomy] => reaction [terms] => Array ( [0] => angry ) [field] => slug [operator] => IN [include_children] => 1 ) ) [relation] => AND [table_aliases:protected] => Array ( [0] => wp_term_relationships ) [queried_terms] => Array ( [reaction] => Array ( [terms] => Array ( [0] => angry ) [field] => slug ) ) [primary_table] => wp_posts [primary_id_column] => ID ) [meta_query] => WP_Meta_Query Object ( [queries] => Array ( ) [relation] => [meta_table] => [meta_id_column] => [primary_table] => [primary_id_column] => [table_aliases:protected] => Array ( ) [clauses:protected] => Array ( ) [has_or_relation:protected] => ) [date_query] => [queried_object] => WP_Term Object ( [term_id] => 564 [name] => Angry [slug] => angry [term_group] => 0 [term_taxonomy_id] => 564 [taxonomy] => reaction [description] => [parent] => 0 [count] => 550 [filter] => raw ) [queried_object_id] => 564 [request] => SELECT SQL_CALC_FOUND_ROWS wp_posts.ID FROM wp_posts LEFT JOIN wp_term_relationships ON (wp_posts.ID = wp_term_relationships.object_id) WHERE 1=1 AND ( wp_term_relationships.term_taxonomy_id IN (564) ) AND wp_posts.post_type IN ('post', 'snax_quiz', 'snax_poll') AND (wp_posts.post_status = 'publish' OR wp_posts.post_status = 'closed' OR wp_posts.post_status = 'acf-disabled') GROUP BY wp_posts.ID ORDER BY wp_posts.post_date DESC LIMIT 0, 36 [posts] => Array ( [0] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 8745 [post_author] => 639 [post_date] => 2019-12-25 09:32:08 [post_date_gmt] => 2019-12-25 14:32:08 [post_content] => It’s not every day our favorite Broadway shows get made into films. These star-studded movies can either go very well (such as “Les Misérables” or “Hairspray”) or terribly wrong (did anyone see “Jersey Boys?”). What comes with these new adaptations are newer takes on some of our favorite shows, sometimes with new songs or new effects that couldn’t have been done onstage. If done correctly, like “Rent” or “Chicago,” these films can capture the musical just right and be around for us to watch for years to come.

Here are 11 musicals that are currently in production and will eventually head to the big screen:

1. ‘In the Heights'

During the crazy success of “Hamilton” in 2016, it was announced that Lin-Manuel Miranda’s 2007 hit “In the Heights” will officially be made into a film. The road to the silver screen has been a little shaky for this adaptation. This four-time Tony Award-winning musical is sure to be an amazing film, but a cast has yet to be announced. Though Miranda has enough on his plate, currently filming “Mary Poppins Returns” and recently being cast in the “DuckTales” reboot, some can’t help but hope he reprises his role as Usnavi in the film adaptation. Miranda told the Huffington Post, “I don’t want to play the role if it feels like it’s not age-appropriate with the rest of the cast. But Chris Jackson (who originated the role of Benny in the show) and I can be in the background playing dominoes during ‘When You’re Home’ and that would be f***king great.” With producers such as Jay Z already signed on to the project, this adaptation is going to warrant more than a bottle of cold champagne.

2. ‘Beautiful: The Carole King Musical’

This project is pretty new compared to the others, but it has been reported that this Tony Award-winning musical will be moving to the big screen. This musical, which first opened on Broadway in 2014, starred Jessie Mueller and won her her first Tony Award for her performance as Carole King. Variety reports the film is currently set to be produced by Sony Pictures, with Tom Hanks already signed on as one of the producers. With classic songs that appeal to all ages, this biopic musical adaptation could really be a big hit. Who do you think should play the iconic songwriter on the big screen?

3. ‘American Idiot’

This punk rock musical first graced the stage in 2010, reinventing Green Day’s 2004 concept album of the same name. The film is currently being produced by HBO and is set to be directed by Michael Mayer, the director of the Broadway musical. As of right now, there is no set date or cast for this film, but Green Day frontman Billie Joe Armstrong is already set to reprise his role as St. Jimmy. When speaking to NME, he said, “I think it’s going to be a lot different from the musical. It’s kind of more surreal, but I think there’s going to be parts of it that might offend people — which is good. I think it’s a great time to offend people. I think there’s just going to be a lot of imagery that we couldn’t pull off in the musical in the stage version. You know, I don’t want to give away too much, but it will be shocking in a way which makes you think.”

4. ‘Little Shop of Horrors’

This classic musical about a plant that comes from outer space and eats people is in talks for a musical movie remake. Though this show has not been on Broadway in recent years, the success of its two-night concert at the New York City Center in 2015, led by Jake Gyllenhaal, proves this show still has a very strong fanbase. Entertainment Weekly reports Greg Berlanti (“The Flash,” “Supergirl”) has signed on to direct the remake. With Matthew Robinson set to do the screenplay and Marc Platt Productions signed on to produce, this remake could come sooner than we think. It seems like the only thing left to do is decide on the cast. Could you imagine Tituss Burgess as Audrey II, or Neil Patrick Harris as Seymour? Of course, this is extremely wishful thinking, but the real question is, can Steve Martin reprise his frightening “Dentist!” for the new film?

5. ‘Finding Neverland’

This is a weird one to get a musical film adaptation. Unlike the other musicals on this list, “Finding Neverland” was based on a film of the same name starring Johnny Depp that told the story of how J.M. Barrie brought Peter Pan to life. Though snubbed at the Tony Awards in 2015, this Gary Barlow-scored musical has truly brought a new, magical dimension to an already great story. The show is currently on a national tour and has a pretty solid fanbase, but what would a film adaptation of a musical adaptation based on a film look like for this show? No cast or director has been assigned to the project. Here’s hoping this magical musical actually sails to the big screen.

6. ‘Matilda’

This loud musical has been in talks to become a film for the past few years. “Matilda,” based on the Roald Dahl novel of the same name, closed on Broadway on Jan. 1, 2017. Though there were talks that the movie would potentially start filming in 2016, the production has yet to get underway. To be fair, Tim Minchin has had his hands full lately. His new hit, “Groundhog Day” has been making waves on Broadway after transferring from London, where it took home the Olivier Award for Best New Musical. The hype is not dying down for this new musical anytime soon, as it was nominated for multiple Tony Awards this year. However, there is still hope for the film adaptation of “Matilda.” With Matthew Warchus signed on as the director (“Matilda,” “Groundhog Day”), the film should be able to get underway soon. Minchin told The Stage, “We didn’t want to rush it, as we wanted it to be known as a theatre piece. We didn’t want people going to the theatre saying, ‘Oh, it’s the musical of that movie.’ You want people seeing the film, saying, ‘It’s the movie of that musical.’” Minchin also said he hopes the film could wrap up by 2018. With a cast not yet announced, it’s hard to tell whether that will happen, but let’s hope production starts moving again soon. It would be a great way to see this naughty group of revolting children bring this great musical to life onscreen.

7. ‘Wicked’

After many years of rumors and speculation, this popular musical is coming to the big screen. This adaptation of Stephen Schwartz and Winnie Holzman’s musical is probably one of the most anticipated stage-to-film adaptations in production. With work already underway on the screenplay, Schwartz has given fans more to look forward to with this new movie. When speaking to Playbill just a few weeks ago, he said we can expect at least two new songs in the adaptation. Schwartz was also very adamant that his adaptation will not be exact. “There are things that work onstage but won’t work on film,” he said. “In order to do something that will work on its own merits, you have to do something different. The only concern is people who would be coming expecting to see a filmed version of the play. They’re not going to see that.” However, fans already seem to have their dream casting for this particular adaptation. With ideas of Lea Michele as Elphaba, Aaron Tveit as Fiyero and Beth Behrs as Glinda, it’s hard not to get ahead of ourselves. But what this adaptation has that most do not is an official premiere date: Dec. 20, 2019.

8. 'Hair'

NBC recently announced it would stage the popular (and controversial) 1960s musical. “Hair” will join a string of live-action musicals put on by NBC, including “Jesus Christ Superstar,” which aired on the network on Easter this year. There have been no announcements on casting yet, but theatre lovers are already speculating.

9. ‘Tick, Tick…Boom!’

Miranda is a busy guy. With “In the Heights” already in the works, he announced his intention to direct an adaptation of Jonathan Larson’s musical “Tick, Tick…Boom!” with the script written by “Dear Evan Hansen” writer Steven Levenson. In the past, Miranda has praised Larson’s work as inspirational in his personal process, and additionally played the character of Jon in a revival of the show back in 2014.

10. ‘West Side Story’

The rumors of this remake from Steven Spielberg and Tony Kushner became a reality earlier this year when a casting call went out for actors/singer/dancers for the leading roles of Tony, Maria, Anita, and Bernardo. No announcements have been made regarding actors chosen for the film or a release date, but the Spielberg/Kushner duo has audiences waiting with bated breath.

11. 'Be More Chill'

Producers of this social media sensation recently announced plans for a film adaptation. This is somewhat surprising since the show has not even opened on Broadway yet. However, Joe Iconis's runaway hit has been getting Broadway-Hit like attention since its recent sold-out run Off-Broadway. Many are predicting this as next big winner on the great white way. Needless to say, the movie is still far from being here and no timetable has yet been given. Kate Johnston also contributed to this article

What musicals do you want to see head to the big screen? Which of these eight are you most excited to see? Let us know in the comments below...

[post_title] => 11 Musicals Heading To The Big Screen [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => 11-musicals-heading-big-screen [to_ping] => [pinged] => https://ew.com/article/2016/12/07/little-shop-horrors-greg-berlanti-remake-warner-bros/ https://theatrenerds.com/personal-defense-cats/ [post_modified] => 2019-12-25 09:33:08 [post_modified_gmt] => 2019-12-25 14:33:08 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=8745 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 64 [filter] => raw ) [1] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 378087 [post_author] => 1 [post_date] => 2019-11-17 09:56:16 [post_date_gmt] => 2019-11-17 14:56:16 [post_content] => Post by TN student contributor Nomy Lavrukov As a teen who’s been exposed to the theatre world since day one , I can tell you for a fact that my experiences with the theater, both as an audience member, and a performer, have enhanced my young life greatly. I have learned important lessons and developed skills that help me in everyday situations in my life. Even though at first I didn’t necessarily enjoy ballet, musicals, plays, and especially not operas, I’ve learned to both appreciate the performing arts and my parents for exposing me to these beautiful art forms. However, it seems that there are parents out there who are concerned about taking their children along for a night out at their local theatre. What if it’s boring? What if they don’t like it? What if it’s a waste of their studying time? From a kid to an adult, I’ll tell you that you are wasting your time with worrying. Sure, there are pros and cons, but I’ve discovered more pros than cons.

Here are 10 reasons why children should be exposed & participate in theatre...

1. Theatre Teaches Us Important Lessons

Whether it be a history lesson or a life lesson, your child is bound to learn something from the things they see in the shows. After listening to a musical soundtrack let alone, I am able to recite to you the entire life or Alexander Hamilton. Awesome, huh?

2. We Can See That We're Not Alone

Shows such as ‘Spring Awakening’ or ‘Fun Home’ can help teens relate to things that they are still trying to figure out; sexuality, who they are, what they want to do in the future, and more. Watching a show without being able to relate to it at all is still fun, but watching the show and thinking ‘I‘ve been there too’ is a powerful experience, no matter how old you are. . 

3. Theatre May Give Your child An Idea For Their Future

Risky? Yup. I know. Will your kid be the odd one out in the family? Maybe. Is it worth it? If your kid is happy, shouldn’t everything be worth it? So many people don’t realize that the theatrical world is a large one, and there are way more jobs than you think there are.

4. It’s A Healthy Escape From The Real World

All of that schoolwork or hallway drama can stress teens out. There is nothing better than letting yourself go to perform a show or to watch one. The beautiful cushioned seats let alone should put one’s mind at ease.

5. Your child will develop an appreciation for the arts

As cheesy as it sounds, it’s important. Exposure to the performing arts teaches young people empathy, and a willingness to embrace things in life that are new and different, rather than fearing them. You could go from plays and musicals to things which require more maturity, such as operas or  the ballet.

6. It Promotes Many Life Skills

A larger sense of imagination? Check. Creativity? Check. Literacy? Check. Participating in theater can also give your child more co-operational skills, discipline, and even improved self confidence as well as public speaking. All of these skills are useful with any occupation, no matter if it’s the arts or STEM!

7. It Can Help Your Child "unplug" From Technology

Wouldn’t you rather have your child obsessed with Broadway instead of candy crush? I’m sure you’re nodding your head while you’re reading this. Just make sure your kid isn’t one of those people who sits on their phone during a show.

8. Anyone Can Enjoy It

Got a five-year-old and a sixteen-year-old? No problem! Believe me, I’ve seen an eight year old boy enjoying himself completely during The Phantom of The Opera.

9. Performing Is Fun!

Once, I went from playing a dying, male game show contestant to a ditsy, female council woman. And it was AWESOME!

10. The Community Is Wonderful

Thespians are some of the most humble, talented and amazing people you could ever meet. The more humble, talented and amazing people your kid will meet, the more humble, talented and amazing your child will become. Post by TN student contributor Nomy Lavrukov

Agree or disagree? Have another reason of your own? Leave a reply below...

[post_title] => 10 Reasons Why You Should Expose Your Child To Theatre [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => 10-reasons-why-you-should-expose-your-child-to-theatre-2 [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2019-11-29 07:31:08 [post_modified_gmt] => 2019-11-29 12:31:08 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=378087 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [2] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 377500 [post_author] => 712 [post_date] => 2019-10-18 09:58:14 [post_date_gmt] => 2019-10-18 13:58:14 [post_content] => As the Karen Smith of Mean Girls once crooned: If we could change the world we’d make it Halloween every single day. The over-the-top holiday is a Theatre Nerd’s dream, with its candy filled pillow cases only made sweeter when you combine it with the musical realm. After all, nothing concocts a ghostlier vibe than spooky music. Though playing I Put A Spell On You on repeat hardly gets stale, here is a coven of other tunes that will get your Broadway-lovin’ blood pumping this Halloween season: The Ultimate Musical Albums to Listen to for Halloween: A Gentleman's Guide to Love and Murder If you want to start with a lighter fare, this morbidly hilarious show brings the mystery and the laughs right to your ears! American Psycho the Musical What says Halloween more than homicidal narcissism? Let Spring Awakening’s Duncan Sheik and Riverdale’s Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa bring you some bloody good fun with their 80s’esque album. Beetlejuice the Musical From The Whole Being Dead Thing to Day-O, the ghost-with-the-most (not going to write his name too many times) takes your ears on a frighteningly-hilarious funhouse tour. Be More Chill Joe Iconis and Joe Tracz’s viral soundtrack will bring even the undead back to life with its frenzied beats. Plus, there’s a song called Halloween – enough said! Cabaret This melodramatic classic needs no introduction. Melding sultry and scary, it’ll have you feelin’ October vibes from the very first vamp. Carrie the Musical Come on, come on, come on! Hold on to your prom crowns because we’ve got ourselves a bonified Stephen King cult horror story right here. The awkward perils of high school + Alice Ripley’s haunting vocals + pig’s blood = a can’t go wrong Halloween musical choice. Dance of the Vampires (A.K.A. Tanz der Vampire) We’re getting a little more obscure with this one, but, hang on, don’t scroll away from me! While this campy show only had 56 performances on Broadway - with Mandy Gonzalez and, the Phantom himself, Michael Crawford to boot - the soundtrack lives on, featuring a rendition of Total Eclipse of the Heart. I bet now you’re dying to listen! Dracula the Musical Kelli O’Hara. Need we say more? Alright, so the luscious leading lady doesn’t exactly scream Halloween, but she’s a musical dream and didn’t you see Dracula in this headline? As far as things that go bump in the night he tops the list. Evil Dead the Musical This rock musical based on the horror film series has developed a cult following over the years for good reason. It’s a crazy good time! Ghost the Musical Romance, fantasy, thrills and Caissie Levy make this passionate score listening #ghouls. Heathers the Musical This could be bootiful! Heather, heather, heather and the gang do not disappoint in this BIG FUN album. Laurence O'Keefe and Kevin Murphy carved out a delicious score (that doesn’t sound like air supply), headlined by the track Candy Story – which is a Halloween party bop! Once you’ve ripped through the Off-Broadway version, head to the Original West End Cast Recording for more treats. Jekyll and Hyde Robert Louis Stevenson’s curiously classic tale is set to gorgeous music in this musical horror-drama. Blast This is the Moment right before you step out on Halloween night. Little Shop of Horrors When you think horror-scifi-comedy-musical (although not sure how often people think that) you think Little Shop. This fan favorite delivers and is extra creepy this time of year. Lizzie: the Musical > Get ready to slay with this axe-cellent soundtrack - see what I did there? Based on the infamous real-life story of Lizzie Borden, this show most recently played off-Broadway with Eden Espinosa and Ciara Renée, who lend their stunning voices to the recording. Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street > Presenting the twisted leading man of your hallowed dreams. Traveling down fleet street this time of year is always a must, but be sure to where a smock! The Addams Family Let us pull you in a new direction to the sweeter side of All Hallow’s Eve. Full disclosure: this show is as Halloweenie as Broadway gets. The Hunchback of Notre Dame While it isn’t directly a holiday show, Alan Menken and Stephen Schwartz’s masterpiece boasts a sweeping orchestration and lingering choral elements that fit the melancholy of the season. The Mystery of Edwin Drood > Whip this bad boy out at your musical theatre nerds Halloween bash for frighteningly interactive fun. Listen to the soaring soundtrack in order and vote on who the killer is before listening to a confession track! The Nightmare Before Christmas This IS Halloween. No, really it is. Pump this kid-friendly album at your family gatherings this autumn and feel free to keep it running through Christmas. The Phantom of the Opera This list wouldn’t be complete without the world’s longest running and most popular musical. The iconic masked angel of music creeps it real as he belts out Andrew Lloyd Webber’s majestic music of the night. The Rocky Horror Picture Show You didn’t think we’d leave this off, did you? Rocky Horror is the pinnacle of Halloween musicals with showings sprouting up around the world every October. It essentially “came back from the dead,” too, growing an incredibly dedicated following after an initially poor movie opening. War of the Worlds the Musical Version Fun fact: this progressive rock album was named the UK’s 32nd best-selling studio album of all time in 2018. Boom it through your speakers and blast off into an epic dance party. Wicked Come through again, Stephen Schwartz! Fly high above your fellow trick-or-treaters as you listen to the most whimsical Broadway cast album in all of Oz. Young Frankenstein Let me be frank, there’s no better time to do the Transylvania mania than Halloween. This hilarious and monstrous romp will make you feel electrifyingly alive. Zombie Prom Putting this on the docket is a no brainer (are you sick of my corny quips yet? Don’t worry we’re almost all wrapped up – like a mummy, get it?). Anyway, this Off-Broadway musical is a zany addition if you’re into the likes of Heathers and Little Shop. Only 25 were included here, but there are no doubt more! Let us know in the comments which are your favorite. Happy Halloween! [post_title] => 25 Spooktacular Musicals To Listen To For All The Halloween Feels [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => 25-spooktacular-musicals-to-listen-to-for-all-the-halloween-feels [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2019-10-18 09:58:14 [post_modified_gmt] => 2019-10-18 13:58:14 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=377500 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [3] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 377479 [post_author] => 3106 [post_date] => 2019-10-18 09:17:07 [post_date_gmt] => 2019-10-18 13:17:07 [post_content] => Ben Platt Ben Platt has been working in professional theatre since he was 9 years old. He burst onto the scene in the Pitch Perfect movies, and starred as Elder Cunningham in The Book of Mormon, but it wasn’t until 2016 and Dear Evan Hansen that his superhuman talent was seen. Playing Evan Hansen won him a Tony, Grammy, Emmy, and made him the youngest person to ever win the Drama League Award. This year, Ben began to show people a different side of himself with his album, Sing to Me Instead. He’s gone on a sold out tour, and his Radio City show is going to be a Netflix special. Speaking of Netflix, he can also be seen starring in The Politician, season one streaming now! Ben stars as Payton Hobart, a character and show written for him by creator Ryan Murphy. The Politician season two begins production this month, and Ben has said he is continually writing music. He is also playing Charley Kringas in Richard Linklater’s adaptation of Merrily We Roll Along, which began production this year, and will film over the next 20 years, in real time as the characters in the show would age. He’ll be on the Merrily journey with another Broadway star... Beanie Feldstein Beanie Feldstein is a theatre kid through and through. She grew up with Ben Platt, and they starred in musicals together in high school. Beanie also attended the theatre camp Stagedoor Manor. She appeared in the movie Neighbors 2, and has had a few television appearances, but her career has skyrocketed over the past few years. Beanie made her Broadway debut as Minnie Fay in Hello, Dolly!, starring alongside the likes of Bette Midler and Kate Baldwin. After taking Broadway by storm, her breakout role as Julie in the Oscar winning film Lady Bird made her a name in Hollywood. The past year, she starred alongside Kaitlyn Dever in Booksmart--solidifying that she is a comedic genius in every way shape and form. She stars in another coming of age film, How to Build a Better Girl, which premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival. Beanie also has a recurring role on the FX series What We Do in the Dark, and she recently wrapped the film adaptation of Stephen Karam’s Tony winning play, The Humans. She will be in the new season of American Crime Story, playing Monica Lewinsky. And of course, she’ll be returning to her musical roots in the film adaptation of Merrily We Roll Along, where she’s playing Mary Flynn (the role her character played in Lady Bird!) Laura Dreyfuss Laura Dreyfuss is most known for originating the role of Zoe Murphy in Dear Evan Hansen, and has become a Broadway fan favorite. She was with DEH in its out of town and off-Broadway runs, and was with the Broadway company for over a year and a half. Prior to that, she was a swing in the national tour and Broadway revival of Hair, and was a standby/replacement for Girl in Once. Laura first stepped into the world of Hollywood royalty Ryan Murphy in 2015, playing Madison McCarthy on the final season of Glee. She also has a recurring role on season two of The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel. She’s reunited with Ryan Murphy and Dear Evan Hansen co-star Ben Platt in the Netflix series The Politician. Her fast talking, dry witted McAfee Westbrook is a scene stealer. We can expect more of her greatness in season two! Speaking of greatness, her first single “Be Great” was released in 2018, featuring Jeremy Pope. Under the stage name Loladre, she’s since released a cover of the Foo Fighters “My Hero,” and another original song “Better Drugs.” Fans are eagerly awaiting her debut EP, with more information on its release expected in the coming weeks. Jeremy Pope Jeremy Pope had a whirlwind of a year this past Broadway season. He made his Broadway debut in Choir Boy, and did so while rehearsing for Ain’t Too Proud. Immediately after his run in Choir Boy, he starred in Ain’t Too Proud, and earned Tony nominations for his work in both shows. He is only the 6th person to get two nominations in one season, and the first person of color and LGBTQ+ person to accomplish this. He’s become an instant Broadway star, but is gearing up to focus on film/tv next. He appeared in the film The Ranger, which premiered at South by Southwest in 2018, but after Ryan Murphy saw him on Broadway, much bigger things will be in store. He will star in the upcoming Netflix series Hollywood, alongside Darren Criss (and Patti LuPone.) He’s also a musician working on his debut album, and is featured on Loladre’s single “Be Great”. Jeremy is most clearly a man of many talents, all of which are going to make him a huge name in every medium he pursues. Billy Porter Billy Porter is a bona fide Broadway star. With a Broadway career spanning nearly 30 years, he has appeared in shows such as Miss Saigon, Grease,Little Shop of Horrors, and Shuffle Along. He is a Tony, Drama Desk, and Grammy Award winner for playing Lola in Kinky Boots. He has also released multiple solo albums with covers and reimaginings of Broadway classics. Outside of theatre, Billy had a recurring role in American Horror Story: Apocalypse, and has been making history starring as Pray Tell in Pose. Pose recently won him an Emmy, and he was the first gay man of color to win the award. It was recently announced that he will be playing the Fairy Godmother in the 2021 remake of Cinderella; but his game changing ways do not stop with his roles. Billy uses fashion to make bold statements - he is sparking conversations about gender roles, prejudices within the industry, and paving the way to a more accepting future. He wore a velvet gown to the Oscars, and has been turning heads on the red carpets of every big event this year, from the Met Gala to the Tonys. Darren Criss Darren Criss broke onto the scene as Blaine Anderson on Glee, instantly becoming a fan favorite. Before Glee, he created the theatre company Team Starkid with his University of Michigan classmates. With them, he wrote and starred in A Very Potter Musical. The support of Starkid fans led to two Potter musical sequels, and a slew of other parody musicals from the company. During the height of Glee fame, Darren starred in the 2012 revival of How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying. In 2015, he returned to Broadway as the title role in Hedwig and the Angry Inch. Since then, he’s brought theatre to a larger audience with the annual Elsie Fest, a concert filled with performances from stars of stage and screen. He’s also released music of his own, both solo and with his band Computer Games. In 2018, Darren won an Emmy and a Golden Globe for playing Andrew Cunanan in The Assasination of Gianni Versace: American Crime Story. Recently, it was announced that he’ll be joining Ryan Murphy again, starring in and producing the new series, Hollywood. He will also be acting, directing, and producing for a new show, Royalties, set to debut on Quibi, and he stars in the film Midway, which will be released in November. Cynthia Erivo Cynthia Erivo broke onto the scene in the West End, touring in Sister Act, and the off-West End production of The Color Purple. Playing Miss Celie is what shot her to fame on Broadway, when she started in the 2016 revival-- winning the Tony Award (and an Emmy and a Grammy) and the hearts of everyone who’s heard her sing. Cynthia continues to share her musical gift with the world. She is featured on songs with Shoshana Bean, John Legend, Todrick Hall, and Billy Porter. Now, she’s venturing to the screen. In 2018, she began to shine on film, appearing in Bad Times at the El Royale (which she also appears on the soundtrack for) and Widows. Cynthia is playing Harriet Tubman in the upcoming film Harriet, which will be released on November 1st. Speaking of bio-pics, it was recently announced that she will be playing Aretha Franklin in season 3 of the National Geographic series Genius. She’ll also be starring in HBO’s adaptation of Stephen King’s The Outsider. Andrew Rannells Broadway fans know 2 time Tony nominee Andrew Rannels for his roles in many Broadway hits. After joining the Broadway cast of Hairspray, and touring in Jersey Boys, Andrew made a name for himself as Elder Price in the original cast of The Book of Mormon. He also replaced Neil Patrick Harris as Hedwig in 2014’s Hedwig and the Angry Inch, and stepped in as King George III for a short stint in a little show called Hamilton. In 2016, Andrew played Whizzer in the fan favorite revival of Falsettos, and most recently he graced the Broadway stage as Larry in The Boys in the Band. Between all of that, he was making a splash in the world of television as Elijah on Lena Dunham’s HBO show Girls. He also entered the world of Ryan Murphy with the way too short lived show The New Normal, and he’s had guest roles on shows like Glee, Will & Grace, and How I Met Your Mother. Now, Andrew voices the character Matthew in the hit Netflix show Big Mouth, and stars as Blair Pffaf in the Showtime series Black Monday. Up next, he’ll be reprising his role in The Boys in the Band, this time on film for Netflix, which is expected to be released in 2020. Anthony Ramos Anthony Ramos took Broadway by storm when he originated the roles of John Laurens and Phillip Hamilton in Hamilton. Now, he’s taking tv and film by storm too. He stars as Mars Blackmon in Spike Lee’s Netflix series She’s Gotta Have It, with two seasons now available to stream. He also appeared in the 2018 adaptation of A Star is Born, as Ally’s best friend Ramon.He had a recurring role in the reboot of Will & Grace, and will be lending his voice to the upcoming Trolls World Tour movie. And of course, Anthony will be playing Usnavi in the highly anticipated film adaptation of In the Heights. Additionally, he is establishing himself as a singer/songwriter. He started to release original songs in 2017 and his first EP, The Freedom was released in 2018. He has been releasing more singles throughout this year, and June 2019 it was announced the he is signed with Republic Records. His debut album The Good & The Bad will be released on October 25th. His music has gained attention from Billboard, and Elle named him one of “nine rising stars you’re about to see everywhere.” Lin Manuel Miranda Obviously everyone who knows musical theatre knows of Lin-Manuel Miranda. In the Heights won four Tony Awards, including Best Musical, and paved the way for more diversity on stage. Lin also starred in the Encores productions of Merrily We Roll Along and Tick Tick Boom. But ever since the phenomenon that is Hamilton, he has become a household name for everyone. Winning 11 Tony Awards, getting Lin a hosting spot on SNL, a mixtape featuring popular music’s biggest stars… it’s safe to say this was a game changer for Lin and pop culture consumers alike. Since then, he’s written the score to Moana and a song for Star Wars: The Force Awakens, lent his voice to the reboot of DuckTales, starred in Mary Poppins Returns, and produced the limited series Fosse/Verdon. And that’s not including things like guest spots on tv and tweets that became a book. Coming up, he’ll be writing music for the live action remake of The Little Mermaid, executive producing and composing the Kingkiller Chronicle and writing 11 new songs for Vivo. He’s also directing and producing Netflix’s adaptation of Tick Tick Boom, creating a documentary on Rita Moreno with Norman Lear, and playing Lee Scoresby in His Dark Materials. And of course, producing the In the Heights movie and appearing as the Piragua Guy. Lin was recently included in the Hollywood Reporter 100: The Most Powerful People in Entertainment 2019. [post_title] => 10 Broadway Actors Taking Hollywood by Storm [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => 10-broadway-actors-taking-hollywood-by-storm [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2019-10-18 09:17:36 [post_modified_gmt] => 2019-10-18 13:17:36 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=377479 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [4] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 374740 [post_author] => 11 [post_date] => 2019-09-13 13:13:53 [post_date_gmt] => 2019-09-13 17:13:53 [post_content] => Gather round, television gurus... Emmy season is upon us! Our favorite glitzy, glamorous night of TV will take place on Sunday, September 22, 2019 at 7PM CT on Fox as the 71st Primetime Emmy Awards determine this year's best series and actors. See how your opinions match up with the rest of the Theatre Nerds community and take our Emmy-inspired poll:   [post_title] => Poll: Which Emmy-Nominated TV Show Would You Put Onstage? [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => closed [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => poll-which-emmy-nominated-tv-show-would-you-put-onstage [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2019-09-13 13:13:53 [post_modified_gmt] => 2019-09-13 17:13:53 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?post_type=snax_poll&p=374740 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => snax_poll [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [5] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 374037 [post_author] => 11 [post_date] => 2019-09-03 13:20:59 [post_date_gmt] => 2019-09-03 17:20:59 [post_content] => [post_title] => 'Six' Personality Quiz: Which Wife Of Henry VIII Are You? [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => six-personality-quiz-which-wife-of-henry-viii-are-you [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2019-09-03 13:20:59 [post_modified_gmt] => 2019-09-03 17:20:59 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?post_type=snax_quiz&p=374037 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => snax_quiz [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [6] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 373979 [post_author] => 1 [post_date] => 2019-08-27 13:00:30 [post_date_gmt] => 2019-08-27 17:00:30 [post_content] => https://www.facebook.com/theatrenerds/videos/2056870281254918/ Admit it. This happens when girls go on a road trip. [post_title] => Regular Girls vs Theatre Girls on a Road Trip [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => regular-girls-vs-theatre-girls [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2019-08-27 13:27:37 [post_modified_gmt] => 2019-08-27 17:27:37 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=373979 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [7] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 373861 [post_author] => 2512 [post_date] => 2019-08-27 08:20:49 [post_date_gmt] => 2019-08-27 12:20:49 [post_content] => You get to choose which Hamilton characters you love best with this ranked list. Which characters will "Blow us all away"? [post_title] => Which Hamilton Characters Are Best? [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => which-hamilton-characters-are-the-best [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2019-08-27 08:28:04 [post_modified_gmt] => 2019-08-27 12:28:04 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=373861 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 5 [filter] => raw ) [8] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 373921 [post_author] => 11 [post_date] => 2019-08-27 08:12:49 [post_date_gmt] => 2019-08-27 12:12:49 [post_content] => Okay, ladies, now let's get in formation and start our day right with a few show tunes. This week, we've rounded up 12 powerhouse songs featured in musicals that are sure to get you feeling encouraged, inspired and TOTALLY ready to celebrate your fellow sisters. Without further ado...

1. “Six” - Six

[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IMO0_DLhgps&list=PLCOOUY9uAnn82EnBxCXpN6uF9pYVTvBqQ&index=10&t=0s[/embed] Treat yourself like the QUEEN you are! The finale of “Six”, the acclaimed pop-concert musical coming to Broadway in 2020, allows the infamous six wives of Henry VIII to “rewrite” their history, giving themselves the happy endings they deserve.

2. "The Schuyler Sisters" - Hamilton

[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mOrpD4wrFkg[/embed] Grab two of your best girls and jam with this fierce trio of ladies. These sisters are sure to *revolutionize* your day for the better. WORK!

3. “I’m Here” - The Color Purple

[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h-aAn2u5Pr4[/embed] In this beloved musical, a young woman endures tragedy but prevails in finding her true self and offering some of the most empowering lyrics to date: “I believe I have inside of me everything that I need to live a bountiful life, and all the love alive in me, I'll stand as tall as the tallest tree.”

4. “Defying Gravity” - Wicked

[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=glsmLGpqMzA[/embed] Whether you’re an Elphaba or a Glinda, it’s time to trust your instincts, close your eyes, and make that leap towards whatever goal you’ve been wanting to achieve. This inspiring song will help… You are unlimited!

5. “(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman” - Beautiful: The Carole King Musical

[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c3SbHGMaj74[/embed] We hear you, Carole, we hear you.

6. “Dancing Queen” - Mamma Mia!

[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g1EdpsxAKcM[/embed] Is there a better way to start your day? Or end your day? Or to have a mid-day dance party? Whether you’re jamming solo style in your bedroom or getting ready for a night out on the town with girlfriends, this little ditty is just the one for you.

7. “The Lioness Hunt” - The Lion King

[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zVw3jDhWF8E[/embed] Claws out, ladies. This understated choral number from the ‘The Lion King’ Broadway musical is a beautiful tribute to the fierce lionesses of Pride Rock. And it’s awesome.

8. “Cell Block Tango” - Chicago

[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0c2bKZMxEQg[/embed] Pop! Six! Squish! This one is for that dude who wronged you… ;)

9. “A Soft Place To Land” - Waitress

[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q9pFS1zRxmI[/embed] Sometimes sugar, butter, flour and the soundtrack of ‘Waitress’ is all you need. This modern musical is chock full of powerhouse-lady musical numbers but this particular gem is a favorite of ours. It’s the perfect add to your playlist, especially when you’re seeking relaxation vibes.

10. “I'm Gonna Wash That Man Right Out of My Hair” - South Pacific

[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zzu8ZxBHMWk[/embed] This is our total breakup aesthetic, just saying…

11. “And I Am Telling You I’m Not Going” - Dreamgirls

[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tvFh6sBUIeA[/embed] Maybe you’re not going on that date you’re dreading. Maybe you’re not going to work today. Maybe you’re not going to leave your bed this entire weekend. Wherever you’re not going, YOU GOT THIS! (But for real, this is an amazing song. Take a listen.)

12. “Don’t Rain On My Parade” - Funny Girl

[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-Yfh_CpA9Sk[/embed] What better way to end the Ultimate Girl-Power Broadway Musical Playlist than with Babs? Perhaps one of the greatest hits from the iconic musical ‘Funny Girl’, this song is a belt-worthy tune all about shutting out the haters and living your very best life. As Barbra would say, “Life's candy and the sun's a ball of butter. Don’t bring around a cloud to rain on my parade!”

Have a show tune you would add to this playlist? Share it with us in the comments below!

[post_title] => The Ultimate Girl-Power Broadway Musical Playlist [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => the-ultimate-girl-power-broadway-musical-playlist [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2019-08-27 08:12:49 [post_modified_gmt] => 2019-08-27 12:12:49 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=373921 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [9] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 373819 [post_author] => 11 [post_date] => 2019-08-27 08:08:46 [post_date_gmt] => 2019-08-27 12:08:46 [post_content] => Whipping up a new musical from scratch is an ever-evolving recipe, that is, until it’s not. A group of artists unite to bake a story into its ultimate Broadway form, and while music assists in telling tales in ways most devices cannot, every song doesn’t always make it into the oven. As a show rises into its ideal state, material cuts are practically inescapable. It’s especially heartbreaking when the deleted songs tend to be wonderful, but just don’t serve the story well enough.

In honor of all the fallen tunes out there, we’ve rounded up 10 songs from contemporary musicals that you should add to your library ASAP!

1. “I Don’t Remember Anything At All” – 25th ANNUAL PUTNAM COUNTY SPELLING BEE

[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZheiUsQf5WQ[/embed] It’s our favorite cut moment of the bee! William Finn gifted us so much character-driven music in this colorful show that it’s hard to imagine more. Long before Broadway, Ms. Rona Lisa Peretti had a ballad smack dab in the middle of the show, belting out her glory days at the bee. Not to mention, you should jump at any chance to listen to Lisa Howard’s otherworldly vocals.

2. “The Clouds Will Drift Away” – SPRING AWAKENING

[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IPrSp36Hr5s[/embed] This song existed in the original demo recording of Spring Awakening, which was performed by Duncan Sheik. It was later replaced with the haunting "Those You've Known". Here’s the full demos and cut songs playlist.

3.“Beacon of Positivity” – LEGALLY BLONDE

[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yGYQsHrVsXs[/embed] This is the original seed that eventually grew up into “Positive.” While we love the way things wound up, there’s something catchy and inspiring about this rough repetitive tune. It’s especially worth listening to for the booming ending!

4. “Costco” – NEXT TO NORMAL

[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X8Ckxnu0cuA[/embed] It’s hard to picture any other music existing in this breathtaking Pulitzer Prize winning dram-sical, especially a song about Costco. And yet, a frenzied ode to the wholesale store was in the tracklist shopping cart straight up until its Broadway checkout. Thank the Youtube Gods that you can still see Alice Ripley slaying the number Off-Broadway.

5. “Family Home Evening” – THE BOOK OF MORMON

[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=txG99YiQcNk[/embed] This tickling demo, sung by none other than Trey Parker, gives us a cute look into the Mormons “home” life. Crank it up if you’re a BOM fan in search of more laughs!

6.“The Truth About the Moon” – NEWSIES

[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mlzBcBkTEM4[/embed] What a title, eh? Compared to many of Alan Menken’s magnificently fashioned songs, we understand why this one didn’t make the cut. It doesn’t totally seem necessary as it heavily relies on the show’s main anthem “Santa Fe.” However, it’s still a beautiful song and worth the listen!

7. “Word You Never Heard” – SOMETHNG ROTTEN!

[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ll39ftQs4Gc[/embed] So many “rotten” tomatoes were tossed out of this musical comedy that there could be a whole alternative show – oh wait, there is! Something Really Rotten was presented at the glorious sub Broadway hub 54 Below, showcasing all of the songs that did not make the cut from this quirky Shakespearean world. “Word You Never Heard” was hilariously performed by Christian Borle, who won a Tony for his performance as Will Shakes. Another recommendation is the beautiful “Lovely Love,” which almost made it into the Broadway run.

8.“Congratulations” – HAMILTON

[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tkzm3nqrlQ8&feature=youtu.be[/embed] This Lin-Manuel Miranda piece is especially exciting for the Angelica stans out there. “Congratulations” puts our pink-dressed Schuyler sister in a fiery spotlight as she strongly scolds Alexander Hamilton for writing The Reynolds Pamphlet. As many faniltons will tell you, a small slice of this still exists in the blockbuster hit’s song “The Reynolds Pamphlet” today.

9. "In The Bedroom Down The Hall" - DEAR EVAN HANSEN

[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cvf1ETgCMN4&feature=youtu.be[/embed] WARNING: Get ready to feel all the feels. Just in case the original DEH soundtrack doesn’t well your eyes with enough tears, the team has released several cut songs from their award-winning show. Oscar and Tony Award-winners Benj Pasek and Justin Paul’s provide particular insight into our map seeking mammas with “In The Bedroom Down The Hall.” This cements yet another reason for seeking out deleted material – you get to know the characters better! Check out this playlist for more cut songs. Sincerely, Theatre Nerds.

10. “Down at the Diner” – WAITRESS THE MUSICAL

[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iDhQKOriMPg[/embed] To end this listicle on the same sugary note we started, here’s a sweet cut confection from the musical, 'Waitress'.  “Down at the Diner” was originally the show’s opening number, welcoming audiences into Joe’s Pie Diner with that signature Sara country twang we all love.

BONUS: “Someone Gets Hurt” (Original) – MEAN GIRLS

[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=So7lysKjQ20[/embed] While the current “Someone Gets Hurt” is a fetch dream, we think this original iteration is also, like, really pretty and wanted to include it here. It lives more in the film version of the story, but is chock full of LOL instances that have Tina Fey’s humor permenant-markered all over them. [post_title] => 10 Songs Cut From Contemporary Broadway Musicals That We Can’t Stop Listening To [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => 10-songs-cut-from-contemporary-broadway-musicals-that-we-can-t-stop-listening-to [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2019-08-27 08:17:12 [post_modified_gmt] => 2019-08-27 12:17:12 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=373819 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 1 [filter] => raw ) [10] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 373669 [post_author] => 1294 [post_date] => 2019-08-27 08:05:44 [post_date_gmt] => 2019-08-27 12:05:44 [post_content] => [post_title] => Every Musical 2019-2020 season [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => closed [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => every-musical-2019-2020-season [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2019-08-27 18:00:36 [post_modified_gmt] => 2019-08-27 22:00:36 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=373669 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [11] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 373568 [post_author] => 11 [post_date] => 2019-08-05 10:49:58 [post_date_gmt] => 2019-08-05 14:49:58 [post_content] => [post_title] => Will You Rule 'The Lion King' Musical Lyric Challenge? [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => will-you-rule-the-lion-king-musical-lyric-challenge [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2019-08-05 10:49:58 [post_modified_gmt] => 2019-08-05 14:49:58 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?post_type=snax_quiz&p=373568 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => snax_quiz [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 1 [filter] => raw ) [12] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 373472 [post_author] => 11 [post_date] => 2019-07-18 10:48:09 [post_date_gmt] => 2019-07-18 14:48:09 [post_content] => [post_title] => Pop! Six! Squish! Can You Ace This 'Chicago' Lyric Quiz? [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => pop-six-squish-can-you-ace-this-chicago-lyric-quiz [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2019-07-18 13:24:23 [post_modified_gmt] => 2019-07-18 17:24:23 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?post_type=snax_quiz&p=373472 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => snax_quiz [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 2 [filter] => raw ) [13] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 371460 [post_author] => 11 [post_date] => 2019-05-25 21:12:14 [post_date_gmt] => 2019-05-26 01:12:14 [post_content] => Whether you’re victim to the Von Trapp children’s practical jokes, plotting to flee an orphanage run by the inhumane Miss Hannigan, or simply planning to abandon all negative vibes by broomstick, there are plenty of characters in musicals who undergo a downright bad day. What happens next? Cue that catchy optimistic number that’s bound to get stuck in your head.

Next time you’re feeling blue, belt one of these show tunes to brighten your mood:

1. “Don’t Rain On My Parade” (‘Funny Girl’)

[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-Yfh_CpA9Sk[/embed] Don't tell me not to live Just sit and putter Life's candy and the sun's A ball of butter Don't bring around a cloud To rain on my parade

2. “I'm Gonna Wash That Man Right Out Of My Hair” (‘South Pacific’)

[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zzu8ZxBHMWk[/embed] Wash him out, dry him out! Push him out, fly him out! Cancel him and let him go (yeah, sister!)

3. “One Day More” (‘Les Misérables’)

[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ydpmzU_i2hg[/embed]

Tomorrow we'll discover What our God in Heaven has in store One more dawn One more day One day more

4. “Dancing Through Life” (‘Wicked’)

[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o3zH5wIlMTk[/embed] Dancing through life Mindless and careless Make sure you're where less Trouble in life Woes are fleeting Blows are glancing When you're dancing Through life

5. “I Have Confidence” (‘The Sound Of Music’)

[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JJYz8pyXOG4[/embed] I must dream of the things I am seeking, I am seeking the courage I lack The courage to serve them with reliance Face my mistakes without defiance Show them I'm worthy And while I show them I'll show me!

6. “Wait For It” (‘Hamilton’)

[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ulsLI029rH0[/embed] I am the one thing in life I can control I am inimitable I am an original I'm not falling behind or running late I'm not standing still I am lying in wait

7. “You Will Be Found” (‘Dear Evan Hansen’)

[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mSfH2AuhXfw[/embed] So let the sun come streaming in 'Cause you’ll reach up and you’ll rise again Lift your head and look around You will be found

8. “Everything’s Coming Up Roses” (‘Gypsy’)

[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LXl10a9gJwA[/embed] Well, someone tell me, when is it my turn? Don't I get a dream for myself? Starting now it's gonna be my turn Gangway, world, get off of my runway! Starting now I bat a thousand! This time, boys, I'm taking the bows and Everything's coming up Rose!

9. “Tomorrow” (‘Annie’)

[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yop62wQH498[/embed] The sun'll come out Tomorrow Bet your bottom dollar That tomorrow There'll be sun!

10. “I Got The Sun In The Morning” (‘Annie Get Your Gun’)

[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xwDy-XmfwzQ[/embed] Got no mansion, got no yacht, Still I'm happy with what I've got; I've got the sun in the morning and the moon at night.

11. “Put On A Happy Face” (‘Bye Bye Birdie’)

[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I_CE7GqqrvY[/embed] Gray skies are gonna clear up, Put on a happy face; Brush off the clouds and cheer up, Put on a happy face.

12. “Seize The Day” (‘Newsies’)

[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sMi8pjRg6YY[/embed] Now is the time to seize the day They're gonna see there's hell to pay Nothing can break us No one can make us quit before we're done One for all and all for one!

13. “Non-Stop” (‘Hamilton’)

[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DPgE7PNzXag[/embed] Why do you write like you’re running out of time? Write day and night like you’re running out of time? Ev’ry day you fight, like you’re running out of time Keep on fighting In the meantime Non-stop

14. “I Believe” (‘The Book Of Mormon’)

[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GVJgmp2Tc2s[/embed] And now I can feel the excitement, this is the moment I was born to do And I feel so incredible to be sharing my faith with you

15. “Defying Gravity” (‘Wicked’)

[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=glsmLGpqMzA[/embed] So if you care to find me Look to the western sky As someone told me lately "Ev'ryone deserves the chance to fly"

16. “Dancing Queen” (‘Mamma Mia!’)

[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MDgFU-MQCHY[/embed] You can dance You can jive Having the time of your life!

17. “You Can’t Stop The Beat” (‘Hairspray’)

[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K54VMAmjNSk[/embed] 'Cause you cant stop the motion of the ocean Or the sun in the sky You can wonder if you wanna, but I never ask why And if you try to hold me down I'm gonna spit in your eye and say That you can't stop the beat!

Do you have another show tune that never fails to cheer you up? Share it in the comments below!

[post_title] => 17 Show Tunes To Belt When You're Having A Bad Day [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => 17-show-tunes-to-belt-when-youre-having-a-bad-day [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2019-05-25 21:12:23 [post_modified_gmt] => 2019-05-26 01:12:23 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=371460 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 14 [filter] => raw ) [14] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 371539 [post_author] => 11 [post_date] => 2019-05-19 12:30:21 [post_date_gmt] => 2019-05-19 16:30:21 [post_content] => Tonight 'Game Of Thrones', will be ending after eight years of bloody battles, dangerous dragons and white walkers galore. Fans of the series who share a love for performing arts most certainly appreciate the theatricality of George R.R. Martin's fantasy realm. While the complex world of Westeros would bring challenges to the stage, we can dream!

You're the casting director now! In honor of the season finale, cast your vote on which singing stars should enter the Seven Kingdoms for a "dream" Broadway musical adaptation:

[post_title] => Dream Casting Poll: Who Would Star In 'Game Of Thrones' The Musical? [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => dream-casting-poll-who-would-star-in-game-of-thrones-the-musical [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2019-05-19 12:33:32 [post_modified_gmt] => 2019-05-19 16:33:32 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?post_type=snax_poll&p=371539 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => snax_poll [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [15] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 372192 [post_author] => 11 [post_date] => 2019-05-13 10:38:01 [post_date_gmt] => 2019-05-13 14:38:01 [post_content] =>

What do you get when you mix theatre and a bunch of cats? Well, probably the musical 'Cats', but also the mysterious and adorable underworld of theatre-themed kitty memes. Thank you, Internet. Cuddle up with your favorite fluffy feline and take a look at these purrr-fect memes right MEOW!

1.

icanhas.cheezburger

That mood when you’ve rehearsed the scene a thousand times.

2.

makeameme

The Scottish Play has all of us in scaredy-cat mode.

3.

cheezburger

We’d see this production. Front row.

4.

munofore

Are you team Phantom of the Opurrra? Or team Rawr-oul?

5.

munofore

Because this list would not be complete without an actual ‘Cats’ musical cat meme!

6.

Meme Center

This list would also not be complete without a “Grumpy Cat” meme. Grumpy Cat dreamed a dream and it was probably a nightmare...

7.

Pinterest

Grumpy Cat has no time for glamour cats…

8.

pinimg

He also has no time for happy endings...

9.

pinimg

He’s basically just Javert in cat form...

10.

catsofhamilton.tumblr

We’d love any of these fluffy furballs to be our right-hand man!

11.

catsofhamilton.tumblr

Or should we say “Are you Aaron Burr, Purr?!”

12.

icanhas.cheezburger

This one is a purr-sonal favorite: the life of a theatre nerd in a nutshell!

Have a favorite theatre-inspired cat meme? Share it with us in the comments below!

[post_title] => Brighten Your Day With 12 Theatre-Inspired Cat Memes [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => brighten-your-day-with-12-theatre-inspired-cat-memes [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2019-05-13 10:38:30 [post_modified_gmt] => 2019-05-13 14:38:30 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=372192 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [16] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 372478 [post_author] => 1294 [post_date] => 2019-05-06 12:17:42 [post_date_gmt] => 2019-05-06 16:17:42 [post_content] => It's that time of year again! When a bunch of theatre people vote on who were the best theatre people of this theatre season. This time around, 10 musicals and 15 plays have been nominated across the 26 catergories they could've been nominated. The wins won't be revealed to us until June, so take it upon yourselves to choose the winners, according to you! Also fun fact: To Kill a Mockingbird was snubbed for Best Play. [post_title] => Poll: Cast Your Vote For The 73rd Annual Tony Awards! [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => closed [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => cast-vote-for-73rd-annual-tony-awards [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2019-05-06 12:24:19 [post_modified_gmt] => 2019-05-06 16:24:19 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?post_type=snax_poll&p=372478 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => snax_poll [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [17] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 371062 [post_author] => 11 [post_date] => 2019-05-04 10:26:54 [post_date_gmt] => 2019-05-04 14:26:54 [post_content] => Before ‘Hamilton’ or ‘Dear Evan Hansen’ swept the world by storm, another powerful musical transcended Broadway and found its place in mainstream culture. For decades, audiences across the globe have been filling theatres to witness the incomparable stage experience that is ‘Les Misérables’. This timeless musical, based on the acclaimed novel by Victor Hugo, is loved by many for its emotional tale of hope, forgiveness and humanity.

Here are 27 memorable lyrics from ‘Les Mis’:

1.

“The color of the world is changing day by day.” - Enjolras (Red And Black)

2.

“To love another person is to see the face of God.” - Fantine & Jean Valjean (Epilogue)

3.

“Even the darkest night will end and the sun will rise.” - Chorus (Epilogue)

4.

“At the end of the day you’re another day older, and that’s all you can say for the life of the poor.” - Chorus (At The End Of The Day)

5.

“I dreamed a dream in time gone by, when hope was high and life worth living. I dreamed that love would never die. I dreamed that God would be forgiving.” - Fantine (I Dreamed A Dream)

6.

“Red - the blood of angry men. Black - the dark of ages past. Red - a world about to dawn. Black - the night that ends at last!” - Enjolras (Red And Black)

7.

“The day begins and now let’s see what this new world will do for me.” - Jean Valjean (Overture)

8.

“I know a place where no one's lost. I know a place where no one cries. Crying at all is not allowed. Not in my castle on a cloud.” - Cosette (Castle On A Cloud)

9.

“Bring him peace, bring him joy. He is young, he is only a boy. You can take, you can give. Let him be, let him live. If I die, let me die. Let him live. Bring him home.” - Jean Valjean (Bring Him Home)

10.

“I love him but when the night is over he is gone, the river's just a river.” - Eponine (On My Own)

11.

“'Ow do you do? My name's Gavroche. These are my people, here's my patch. Not much to look at, nothing posh. Nothing that you'd call up to scratch.” - Gavroche (Look Down)

12.

“Nothing gets you nothing. Everything has got a little price!” - Thenardier (Master Of The House)

13.

“Oh, my friends! My friends, don’t ask me what your sacrifice was for! Empty chairs at empty tables, where my friends shall sing no more.” - Marius (Empty Chairs At Empty Tables)

14.

“Do you hear the people sing, singing the song of angry men? It is the music of a people who will not be slaves again. When the beating of your heart echoes the beating the beating of the drums, there is a life about to start when tomorrow comes!” - Enjolras & Company (Do You Hear The People Sing?)

15.

“Take my love, for love is everlasting.” - Fantine (Epilogue)

16.

“Who am I? 24601!” - Jean Valjean (Who Am I)

17.

“There's a new world for the winning. There's a new world to be won.” - Company (One Day More)

18.

“Yet why did I allow that man to touch my soul and teach me love? He treated me like any other, he gave me his trust, he called me brother.” - Jean Valjean (Valjean's Soliloquy)

19.

“Stars - In your multitudes, scarce to be counted, filling the darkness with order and light…” - Javert (Stars)

20.

“Beyond the barricade is there a world you long to see? Then join in the fight that will give you the right to be free!” - Company (Do You Hear The People Sing?)

21.

“And I am Javert! Do not forget my name…” - Javert (Work Song/Look Down)

22.

“Let the wine of friendship never run dry.” - Enjolras & Men (Drink With Me)

23.

“Shall I join my brothers there? When our ranks begin to form. Do I stay and do I dare? Will you take your place with me? The time is now, the day is here... One day more.” - Enjolras & Marius (One Day More)

24.

“A little fall of rain can hardly hurt me now. You're here, that's all I need to know. And you will keep me safe, and you will keep me close, and rain will make the flowers grow.” - Eponine (A Little Fall Of Rain)

25.

“A heart full of love. No fear, no regret.” - Cosette (A Heart Full Of Love)

26.

“On my own pretending he's beside me. All alone, I walk with him till morning.” - Eponine (On My Own)

27.

“Jean Valjean is nothing now, another story must begin!” - Jean Valjean (Valjean’s Soliloquy)

Want to share another quotable lyric from ‘Les Misérables’? Comment below...

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10. ‘Electricity’ - ‘Billy Elliot’

This song is Billy's answer to the question, "What does it feel like, when you are dancing?" He replies that dancing makes him feel like flying, like he’s lost himself and found himself in one motion, and like there are sparks inside him just beginning to burst him open. If you've ever had a deep passion for anything you love to do, especially performing arts-based, this song is sure to make you smile and feel all fuzzy inside. https://youtu.be/n1Q08xO7Zsg

9. ‘Far From the Home I Love’ - ‘Fiddler on the Roof’

In this song, Tevya’s daughter, Hodel, sings him her struggle of loving Perchik and leaving her home. She loves her family, and once was perfectly happy to remain by them, but now that she is in love, she would go anywhere with Perchik, even Siberia. It’s a simple song, but one that especially hits hard if you’ve recently moved away from your own family. https://youtu.be/E3Pr-6Jfpvc

8. ‘She Used To Be Mine’ - ‘Waitress’

In this stirring song, Jenna Hunterson laments losing her true self over the years. Her abusive husband Earl has just taken all the money she had hidden for her yet-to-be-born child, presumably to spend it on alcohol. She eventually concludes that her baby is reawakening a fire inside her, convincing her to fight for a better life for them both. It's a beautiful and sad tribute to our hero's past self and one that never fails to make me misty-eyed. https://youtu.be/DDDqIxGk9pg

7. ‘You Will Be Found’ - Dear Evan Hansen

At the launch of The Connor Project, Evan Hansen gives a moving speech. Although this speech was based on Evan's made-up friendship with Connor, it still has a huge impact on people even outside of the show. With lines like, "Let that lonely feeling wash away; Maybe there's a reason to believe you'll be okay," and, "you'll reach up and you'll rise again," it's an emotional, uplifting piece about friends being there to help you through dark times. https://youtu.be/mSfH2AuhXfw

6. ‘Who Lives, Who Dies, Who Tell Your Story’ - ‘Hamilton’

After Alexander Hamilton's death, those who knew him gather in a finale to reminisce on their enemy, brother, and husband. They remind us of his genius, and that he didn't live long enough to tell his story. In the end, it's Eliza, his wife, who preserves his legacy. A notable emotional moment is when Eliza is talking about the children in her orphanage: "In their eyes I see you, Alexander." Tears. Every. Time. https://youtu.be/NrMkdZtqiVI

5. ‘For Good’ - ‘Wicked’

The farewell scene between Elphaba and Glinda has always been a tear-jerker. The two witches sing about how each has changed the other for the better, and exchange apologies for their past disagreements. They then part ways, never to see each other again. Who knew one day I’d be crying over the “Wicked Witch of the West”? https://youtu.be/Y8YMfgu92hQ

4. All of ‘Les Miserables’

“Les Miserables” is the perfect name for this sad novel-turned-musical. There is hardly a 15-minute span without death or other melancholy moment through the entire show. For example: "I Dreamed a Dream," "Fantine’s Death/Come to Me," "On My Own," "A Little Fall of Rain," "Empty Chairs at Empty Tables," ...you get it. If you're deep in your feels and craving a sung-through tragedy to cry/sing to, this is your show! https://youtu.be/Wtd4M5nEfsA

3. ‘Finale’ - ‘The Phantom of the Opera’

In the finale of the longest-running Broadway musical, the Phantom realizes that he cannot force Christine to love him, so he sets her and Raoul free. Christine returns to give back a ring that the Phantom had placed on her finger. Overcome with emotion, the Phantom confesses his love for her as she rejoins Raoul. As he wails that the music of the night is over, he disappears, leaving only his mask. I may have listened to the cast album more times than I could count, but I break down every time at the finale! https://youtu.be/RHsKeYhwUwg

2. ‘A Part of Us’ - ‘Once On This Island’

Mama Euralie, Tonton Julian, and Little Girl mourn Ti Moune, the little orphan girl from the tree. In the story told to the Little Girl, the gods rewarded Ti Moune for her love and perseverance by giving her a peaceful end and preserving her for all time as a boundary-breaking tree. Although I knew what to expect from this story, my heart broke and was healed in less than three minutes. https://youtu.be/wX8r--jpICU

1. ‘I’ll Cover You (Reprise)’ - ‘Rent’

The musical "Rent" is laden with emotion, but this song especially gets me into tears. During Angel's funeral, Collins brings back the song "I'll Cover You" with heart-wrenching anguish, promising Angel that he will love him even in death, for "all my life." BRB, sobbing. https://youtu.be/W_5mhPxVfck

Did we make you cry? Did we miss a musical moment that gave you feels? Let us know which one in the comments below...

You May Also Like: Poll: Rank Your Favorite Broadway Heroines

[post_title] => Top 10 Musical Theatre Moments That Give Us Feels [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => top-10-musical-theatre-moments-give-feels [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2019-04-23 14:09:43 [post_modified_gmt] => 2019-04-23 18:09:43 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=372780 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 10 [filter] => raw ) [20] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 372356 [post_author] => 11 [post_date] => 2019-04-17 09:42:33 [post_date_gmt] => 2019-04-17 13:42:33 [post_content] => [post_title] => Quiz: Which Broadway Musical Princess Are You? [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => which-broadway-musical-princess-are-you [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2019-04-17 09:45:59 [post_modified_gmt] => 2019-04-17 13:45:59 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?post_type=snax_quiz&p=372356 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => snax_quiz [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 4 [filter] => raw ) [21] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 372652 [post_author] => 2192 [post_date] => 2019-04-15 13:11:27 [post_date_gmt] => 2019-04-15 17:11:27 [post_content] => Did you ever have a day that didn’t turn out the way you’d expected? You’re all dressed up for your big night. For months now you’ve been the talk of the town. The critics love you; the audiences love you, the nominators love you. You already won the Drama Desk a few weeks back, and tonight your show is nominated for more Tony Awards than anything else in the season. Everyone your parents have ever talked to are watching. You deserve this. Truly, you do. And you look mah-velous! Finally, they get to your category. When the presenter says your name on the list of nominees, your date squeezes your hand -- one last vote of confidence, “You got this, babe! I believe in you.” The envelope is torn. And… … they call someone else’s name.   I can tell you from personal experience: not winning is a miserable sensation. And it’s especially painful when everybody said you would. But, hey, that’s showbiz. Here are a couple of instances throughout Tony Awards history when people got robbed. They deserved better. Here are their stories...

1. Best Musical: “Dreamgirls” vs. “Nine”, 1982

Of the four musicals nominated in 1982, only two actually deserved to win. Those were “Nine” and “Dreamgirls”. The also-rans that season were the cloyingly twee “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” and the obscure honkytonk longshot “Pump Boys and Dinettes.” For the majority of that season, however, “Dreamgirls” had dominated the landscape. The show was a big hit for its producers, The Shubert Organization. Jennifer Holliday’s bombastic turn as Effie White was not to be missed. The show’s director and choreographer Michael Bennett (“A Chorus Line”)  had delivered a seamlessly slick production with an unrelenting drive. The show was dynamite. Then, on the very last day of Tony eligibility, a new competitor arrived. The Nederlander Organization (longstanding rivals of the Shuberts) had opened “Nine”, an intimate musical based on the Frederico Fellini film “8 ½.” The show had practically materialized from thin air. But, man, was it was captivating... and styled with artful restraint by director Tommy Tune. To be frank, “Nine” was downright sexy. Those assets earned the show 12 Tony nominations. “Dreamgirls” earned 13. On Tony night, the race was neck-and-neck going into the final lap. For Best Director, Tommy Tune (of “Nine”) beat Michael Bennett (of “Dreamgirls”). In an equitable turn, Bennett was consoled by beating Tune for Best Choreography. The presenter for the Best Musical category that year was Lena Horne. “I hope I can read this without my glasses,” she chuckled while tearing at the envelope. “The winner is… NINE!” The audience was SHOCKED. The next morning in The New York Times, columnist Carol Lawson said, “The producers of ‘'Nine’ were jubilant as their show beat out ‘Dreamgirls,’ the lavish musical unofficially based on the rise of the Supremes. For most of the season, which was a particularly weak one for musicals, ‘Dreamgirls’ had no strong competition for the year's awards. But all that changed when ‘Nine’ opened a month ago…” In the end, “Dreamgirls” won 6 Tony Awards -- including one for Jennifer Holliday -- while “Nine” won five. But one of those five was Best Musical, and that’s really the one that matters. PS: If you want to know more about this fascinating story, I highly recommend Michael Reidel’s book “Razzle Dazzle.” I couldn’t put it down!

2. Best Musical: “Two Gentlemen of Verona” vs. “Follies”, 1972

Look, a lot of people like to crap all over “Two Gentlemen of Verona.” But I’m here to tell you:  they’re wrong. Well, for the most part. No one can deny that the show has a catchy score; it’s tuneful and lively, full of sass and brass. The show’s composer Galt MacDermott (“HAIR”) said his inspiration for its sound was walking down Broadway on a nice day and hearing every kind of music pour out of open windows. The result was an eclecticism that warms like auditory sunshine. Now, originally that production started out at Shakespeare in the Park. Then after receiving positive notices, it picked up its duds and legitimized itself on a Broadway stage. A STELLAR review from the Times established it as the one to see in 1972. Clive Barnes declared, “Love is in bloom and back in style. It has a surge of youth to it, at times an almost carnal intimation of sexuality, and a boisterous sense of love. It is precisely this that the new musical catches and makes its own.” Meanwhile, it’s major competition wasn’t proving to be so accessible. Word around town pegged “Follies” as more of an accomplishment than an entertainment -- sort of like a worthy experiment that mostly paid off, even if it was a chore to read the scientist’s findings. Critic Walter Kerr didn’t seem to know what to make of it. The first paragraph of his review called it “exhausting,” and “tedious.” But then by paragraph five he said it was a “huge entertainment.” Still, despite his indecision, the Tony nominations favored “Follies” with 12 and “Two Gentlemen” with only 9. On the big night, “Follies” had nearly a clean sweep. It took home awards for direction, choreography, lighting, scenery, costumes, score, and for actress Alexis Smith. The only award “Two Gentlemen” won was for Best Book of a Musical (John Guare & Mel Shapiro). That’s why it was such a shock when “Two Gentlemen” took Best Musical. And what a night it must have been for its producer (and founder of the Public Theater), Joe Papp. Not only had Papp produced “Two Gentlemen” -- that year’s Best Musical -- but he had also produced that year’s Best Play -- “Sticks and Bones” by David Rabe. However, history seems to have revised this decision. Since losing the Tony, “Follies” has received two major revivals on Broadway. Meanwhile, any and all attempts at “Two Gentlemen” have fizzled in the rain.   So, what were the factors that led to this upset? Well, for starters, the prior year “Company” had dominated the awards. “Follies” was another effort by the same collaborators as “Company”, Stephen Sondheim and Hal Prince. This year’s experiment yielded similar results and the voters wanted to support variety. Also, the other big Galt MacDermott show “HAIR” had been ahead of its time and, therefore, didn’t win in its respective year. So, it is possible that this award for “Two Gentlemen” was an act of self-validation by the voters. It was as if to say, “See, we’re with hip! We’re with it… now!” Personally, though, I think voters were blinded by “Two Gentlemen’s” pure sunshine of a score. Anyway, it sure beats a lot better than “Follies” callused and withered heart.

3. Best Performance by a Leading Actress in a Musical: Idina Menzel vs. Tonya Pinkins, 2004

It’s not easy being green. In fact, according to Ben Brantley of The New York Times, it’s a lot easier being pink. At least it is when you’re Kristin Chenoweth (read: popular). Mind you, Brantley always has been a worshipper of KC. But his review for “Wicked” officially lit the candle at her altar. He even went so far as to declare her the show’s one saving grace. “Be grateful,” he said, “very grateful, that Ms. Chenoweth, who spent a brief exile in the land of sitcoms, has returned to the stage. She provides the essential helium in a bloated production that might otherwise spend close to three hours flapping its oversized wings without taking off… Yet it's hard to avoid the impression that whenever Ms. Chenoweth leaves the stage, ‘Wicked’ loses its wit.” Needless to say, he didn’t find Idina Menzel to be nearly as appealing. He barely got around to mentioning her before circling back to Kristen. As he put it, “The talented Ms. Menzel will no doubt dazzle audience members whose musical tastes run to soft-rock stations. But for aficionados of the American musical, it's Ms. Chenoweth who's the real thing, melding decades of performing traditions into something shiny and new. 'Wicked' does not, alas, speak hopefully for the future of the Broadway musical. Ms. Chenoweth, on the other hand, definitely does.” To add insult to injury, it was ruled by the Tony nominating committee (who were likely solicited by the show’s producers) that both Idina and Kristen would be eligible to compete in the same category -- Leading Actress in a Musical. When they were both nominated in that category, it was impossible to think their onstage rivalry didn’t bleed into the wings. During the campaign, Menzel did have a slight advantage; Chenoweth had already won a Tony for “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown” and, let’s face it, Elphaba does way more heavy lifting in “Wicked”. Anyway, most voters thought that the two “Wicked” actresses would split the vote and, therefore, neither would win. That made the front-runner Tonya Pinkins. She was nominated for her breathtaking performance in “Caroline, or Change.” Pinkins had won previously in 1992 for “Jelly’s Last Jam” and a lot of people were saying she deserved it again. She was MESMERIZING as Caroline, the put-upon maid to a Jewish family in a haunting little show about race relations in the 1960s. Mark Swed of the Los Angeles Times wrote of Pinkins, “If you needed no other reason to see [‘Caroline, or Change’], Tonya Pinkins' understated, nuanced performance would supply it. Hers will, I hope, one day be remembered as a Broadway classic for its ability to balance smoldering anger with radiance.” Alas, come Tony night, it was Menzel took home the trophy -- in which case Pinkins and Chenoweth were the ones turning green.

4. Best Musical: “Wicked” vs. “Avenue Q”, 2004

If there was an award to be given for “Biggest Tony Award Upset in History,” this would easily win. By the time the Tonys finally rolled around in 2004, the statues had practically been engraved for “Wicked.” And, why not? The show was unstoppable. It was a critic-proof juggernaut. Its word-of-mouth was golden, as were its ticket sales (then and in the 15+ years since). When an informal poll was given among Tony voters by The New York Times, the consensus was that “Wicked” would definitely win. But then some naughty puppets got in the way. The producing office for “Avenue Q” waged an all-out war against its competition. They ran an ingenious campaign encouraging people to, “Vote Your Heart.” They took out full-page newspaper ads and held a pizza party for out-of-town voters. They even distributed CD’s with a new song titled “Rod’s Dilemma.” The song features the entire cast of the show all helping Rod determine how to cast his vote for the new Rotary Club president (“Why not vote for the person who deserves it?”). Promotional buttons for “Q” were distributed at the theater. They even decorated the box office like a campaign headquarters. In total, the effort cost producers around $300,000. And, believe it or not, it worked. Over the course of the evening, “Avenue Q” won 3 Tony Awards: Best Book/Lyrics, Best Original Score, and Best Musical. These 3 awards are the trifecta; they’re the most important for a new musical to win. “Wicked”, on the other hand, won for Idina Menzel, Best Scenic Design, and Best Costumes. Consequently, “Wicked” director Joe Mantello also won that night, but for his work on “Assassins.”   Still, if I had the retrospective choice between investing in “Avenue Q” and investing in “Wicked,” my green would be on green -- Tonys be dammed. During its run at the Golden Theater before transferring Off-Broadway, “Avenue Q” took in a respectable cumulative gross of $121,918,918. Meanwhile, “Wicked” has earned $1,276,318,914 counting. Fly high, you wicked witches!

NOTE: Didn’t see your favorite listed here? Please stay tuned! This is a continuing series and more Tony Awards Upsets are on the way.

[post_title] => And The Winner ISN'T: The Biggest Tony Awards Upsets In History (PART ONE) [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => and-the-winner-isnt-the-biggest-tony-awards-upsets-in-history-part-one [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2019-04-15 13:12:25 [post_modified_gmt] => 2019-04-15 17:12:25 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=372652 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [22] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 372256 [post_author] => 11 [post_date] => 2019-04-10 08:44:01 [post_date_gmt] => 2019-04-10 12:44:01 [post_content] => Cue those seventy-six trombones because ‘The Music Man’ has found its star-studded Broadway revival. Set to open officially on October 22, 2020, the production will star Hugh Jackman as the iconic Professor Harold Hill opposite Sutton Foster as Marion Paroo. Is there a better duo to take on the song, dance and witty banter of a con-man and rule-following librarian? We think not.

As we await the anticipated Broadway revival, we’re reminiscing over these six reasons to love ‘The Music Man’:

1. It was adapted into an iconic movie.

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Bringing Broadway to the big screen is hard and many movie musicals undergo brutal scrutiny. After debuting onstage in 1957, ‘The Music Man’ film was released in 1962 and received critical acclaim (we’re talking an Academy Award for Best Musical Score plus five nominations). The movie, starring Robert Preston and Shirley Jones, has since then become a classic.

2. The made-for-TV remake was even good.

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The 2003 television movie starring Matthew Broderick as Harold Hill and Kristin Chenoweth as Marion gave Broadway-loving theatre nerds life that year. Rather than taking too many liberties as many remakes often do, it stayed true to the heart of the original film. The TV remake also features Victor Garber and Molly Shannon as the town mayor and his eccentric wife.

3. It’s a feel-good story with something for everyone.

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Perhaps ‘The Music Man’ has made such waves in both musical theatre and Hollywood because of its simple, sweet and entertaining story. When Harold Hill, a traveling salesman with questionable credibility, arrives in River City, Iowa, chaos ensues. While it’s Hill’s mission to form a marching band that will allow him to sell instruments he does not possess (and flee before anyone catches on to his scam), his time in River City teaches him a thing or two. ‘The Music Man’ is a heartwarming story with something for everyone - life lessons, romance, comedy, and plenty of classic show tunes.

4. It’s got insanely catchy music.

[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LI_Oe-jtgdI[/embed] You try listening to "Seventy-Six Trombones" without marching to the beat. Don’t even get us started on “Marian The Librarian”. All we’ve got to say is “Ya Got Trouble.”

5. It’s got some of Broadway’s most beautiful ballads.

[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JLDsLeVxOaU[/embed] Decades later, tunes such as “Goodnight, My Someone" and “Till There Was You” still remain memorable and impactful in the world of musical theatre. Their soulful lyrics and soaring melodies have stood the test of time due to their relatable messages on love.

6. There’s a new Broadway revival in the works and we’re ALL about it.

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If the “Pick a Little, Talk a Little" ladies of River City could read up on current theatre news, they’d be chatting all about the latest Broadway revival announcement. Playbill reports that a new production of ‘The Music Man’, directed by Jerry Zaks (‘Little Shop Of Horrors’, ‘A Bronx Tale’, ‘Hello, Dolly!’) and starring Hugh Jackman and Sutton Foster in leading roles, will feature choreography by Tony Award-winner Warren Carlyle (‘Finian's Rainbow’, ‘Hello, Dolly!’). The revival is set to open for previews September 9, 2020 and officially open on Broadway October 22, 2020.

Why do you love ‘The Music Man’? Share with us in the comments below!

[post_title] => 6 Reasons To Love 'The Music Man' [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => 6-reasons-to-love-the-music-man [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2019-04-10 08:45:00 [post_modified_gmt] => 2019-04-10 12:45:00 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=372256 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 3 [filter] => raw ) [23] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 370790 [post_author] => 11 [post_date] => 2019-04-02 12:15:00 [post_date_gmt] => 2019-04-02 16:15:00 [post_content] => Which musical powerhouse will reign most popular? Vote now. [post_title] => Poll: Rank Your Favorite Broadway Heroines [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => poll-rank-your-favorite-broadway-heroines [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2019-04-02 12:16:52 [post_modified_gmt] => 2019-04-02 16:16:52 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?post_type=snax_poll&p=370790 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => snax_poll [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 4 [filter] => raw ) [24] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 371485 [post_author] => 11 [post_date] => 2019-03-29 11:32:13 [post_date_gmt] => 2019-03-29 15:32:13 [post_content] => What would Albus Percival Wulfric Brian Dumbledore think of muggle theatre? We think he’d love it! It’s no secret that Hogwarts’ most beloved headmaster was fond of music (J. K. Rowling references this in the series many times) and we can totally picture this great wizard listening to some Andrew Lloyd Webber in his downtime.

Here are 10 magical Dumbledore gifs relatable to every theatre nerd...

1. When you find other people who get your theatre references...

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2. Finally winning the ‘Hamilton’ lottery like...

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3. Your friend's face when you finally win the ‘Hamilton’ lottery but they’ve also been entering every day…

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4. When your school announces auditions for their musical and everyone already assumes you're there...

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5. And the production requires you to act, sing AND dance…

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6. That rehearsal when you’re required to be off-book be like...

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7. The day before tech week:

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8. Spotting your cast-member bestie backstage on opening night...

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9. When your scene finally arrives and you step onstage:

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10 .Remembering why you love theatre so:

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[post_title] => A Day In The Life Of A Theatre Nerd As Told By Albus Dumbledore [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => day-life-of-theatre-nerd-told-by-albus-dumbledore [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2019-03-29 11:33:08 [post_modified_gmt] => 2019-03-29 15:33:08 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=371485 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 2 [filter] => raw ) [25] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 370189 [post_author] => 1294 [post_date] => 2019-03-25 15:25:45 [post_date_gmt] => 2019-03-25 19:25:45 [post_content] => Sometimes, when you see an announcement for a Broadway show, you'll see the phrase: "Directed by [insert director here]" Sometimes, they will show a selection of shows by this person, but not always. This list is for directors who are working hard today, still making art, so you can see what they have done. If I have missed your favourite director. I'm sorry. [post_title] => Understand 19 Of Broadway's Top Directors Right Now! [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => closed [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => understand-19-of-broadways-top-directors-right-now [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2019-03-26 10:03:12 [post_modified_gmt] => 2019-03-26 14:03:12 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=370189 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [26] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 371312 [post_author] => 11 [post_date] => 2019-03-21 10:21:30 [post_date_gmt] => 2019-03-21 14:21:30 [post_content] => [post_title] => Quiz: Which 'Mary Poppins Returns' Song Should Be Your Motto? [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => which-mary-poppins-returns-song-should-be-your-motto [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2019-03-21 10:27:03 [post_modified_gmt] => 2019-03-21 14:27:03 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?post_type=snax_quiz&p=371312 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => snax_quiz [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 2 [filter] => raw ) [27] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 371154 [post_author] => 11 [post_date] => 2019-03-15 10:30:13 [post_date_gmt] => 2019-03-15 14:30:13 [post_content] => Our incurable addiction to ‘Hamilton’ is still alive and well (*cue “Stay Alive” track*) and one chronic symptom is browsing tens of thousands of ‘Hamilton’ memes on the reg. If you’re reading this article… you may also have this problem.

Fortunately for you, we’re not throwing away our shot to present these life-giving ‘Hamilton’ memes for your viewing pleasure:

1.

Imgflip.com / Pinterest

Because this is the most relatable thing we’ve ever seen.

2.

Pinimg

If you aren’t head-banging and screaming “HERCULES MULLIGAN” at the top of your lungs every time you listen to “Yorktown” you aren’t doing it right.

3.

Pinterest

Us after physical activity and John Jay after writing five of the federalist papers.

4.

Tumblr

Happy Valentine’s Day from A. Ham.

5.

Tumblr

Hugs and kisses from King George.

6.

Hamilbears

Can we have more supercalifragilisticexpialidocious ‘Hamilton’/’Mary Poppins Returns’ crossovers, please?

7.

Hamilbears

Da da da dat da dat da da da da ya da....

8.

Pinterest

The child who wrote this list is our spirit animal.

9.

Pinterest

Only the truest of ‘Hamilton’ fans will get this...

10.

Buzzfeed / @brokeymcpoverty

What can we say? We’re old souls.  

11.

Popbuzz / @blainecapatch

Raise your hand if you’re a Lin-Manuel Carrie.

12.

Her Campus

‘Hamilton’ in a nutshell.

13.

Her Campus

It’s cards against humanity, but for Alexander Hamilton.

14.

Pinterest

History has its eyes on this meme.

15.

Hamilbears

A purrr-fect representation of this song.

16.

Pinterest

We are satisfied.

17.

Pinterest

Us.

18.

Pinterest

Also us.

19.

Hamilton.trashh / Meme.Me.Inside

Have you ever seen anything more accurate?

20.

The Globe Trotting Scientist

Time to replenish your Gatorade stock, gang.

21.

Webstagram

When the Patrick to your Spongebob ALWAYS gets your ‘Hamilton’ references.

Have a favorite ‘Hamilton’ meme? Share it with us in the comments below!

[post_title] => 21 'Hamilton' Memes That Continue To Give Us Life [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => 21-hamilton-memes-continue-give-life [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2019-03-15 10:30:13 [post_modified_gmt] => 2019-03-15 14:30:13 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=371154 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 2 [filter] => raw ) [28] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 371726 [post_author] => 391 [post_date] => 2019-03-12 11:42:05 [post_date_gmt] => 2019-03-12 15:42:05 [post_content] => Throughout the years, women have written intriguing, provocative works for the stage. Composers such as Jeanine Tesori and Lisa Lambert have won Tony Awards for their musicals, whereas singer-songwriters such as Sara Bareilles and Cyndi Lauper have achieved crossover success with their musicals. With the plethora of authors in more niche circles, here's a list of 30 more female playwrights we want you to know.

1. Annie Baker:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=90-M_pOkhEg Baker is best known for her 2013 Pulitzer-winning Off-Broadway play "The Flick." Aside from having written many other Off-Broadway plays, she was a MacArthur Fellow for 2017.

2. Lisa D'Amour:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qrY7mBfgLP0 D'Amour's Off-Broadway plays include "The Cataract" and "Nita and Zita," the latter of which won an Obie Award. Her play "Detroit" was a finalist for the 2011 Pulitzer Prize, and her Broadway play "Airline Highway" received four Tony nominations and three Drama Desk nominations.

3. Sarah DeLappe:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BQWG5E3tyAw Her 2016 Off-Broadway play "The Wolves," which is about a high school girls' soccer team, was a finalist for the 2017 Pulitzer Prize. She has an MFA from Brooklyn College.

4. Margaret Edson:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_QolMf9engU Her play "Wit," which ran Off-Broadway from 1998-2000, earned her the Pulitzer Prize, an Emmy for Outstanding Made for Television Film, and a Tony nomination for Best Revival of a Play. The Broadway production starred Cynthia Nixon, who also received a Tony nomination.

5. Liz Flahive:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BT4NbfyGjwM A graduate from NYU Tisch, Flahive's play "From Up Here" received nominations from Drama Desk and Outer Critics Circle. She has co-produced the shows "Nurse Jackie" and "GLOW."

6. Amy Freed

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G_Wd8SGgb4I Her Off-Broadway play "Freedomland" was a finalist for the 1998 Pulitzer Prize. Another Off-Broadway play of hers, the Shakespeare-themed "The Beard of Avon," played Off-Broadway in 2003. More recently, the San Francisco Public Library named her a Library Laureate.

7. Madeleine George:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5ObYh_pZtuk Her 2013 Off-Broadway play "The (curious case of the) Watson Intelligence" was a Pulitzer Prize finalist. Along with Young Jean Lee, Anne Washburn, and Sarah Ruhl, George also co-founded the Obie-winning collective 13P. She is married to Lisa Kron, who co-wrote the musical "Fun Home."

8. Rebecca Gilman

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=refS_yB9h8k Her best-known works are the Off-Broadway plays "Spinning Into Butter" and "Boy Gets Girl." The former play examines political correctness and racial identity, whereas the latter play examines power dynamics in gender relations. Another play, "A True Story of the Johnstown Flood," was inspired by Hurricane Katrina.

9. Gina Gionfriddo:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ofYct6vDx00 Two of her Off-Broadway plays, "Becky Shaw" and "Rapture, Blister, Burn," were 2009 and 2013 finalists for the Pulitzer Prize. She has also written for "Law and Order" and "Cold Case."

10. DW Gregory

Her plays are tragicomedic examinations of American life throughout history. One of her most famous works, "Radium Girls," is about a group of female factory workers who fall ill with radium poisoning. It is a popular choice among high schools and community theaters.

11. Danai Gurira:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oge6B-2ORQI You might know her as Michonne from "The Walking Dead" and as Okoye in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Gurira's play "Eclipsed" received six Tony nominations (winning one), and her play "Familiar" won her the Sam Norkin Award from Drama Desk.

12. Leslye Headland:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sot-NvEoX40 Headland is known for her "Seven Deadly Plays" cycle, in which each play covers one of the seven deadly sins in Christianity. She has directed multiple films, and her Netflix series "Russian Doll," which she created with Natasha Lyonne and Amy Poehler, premieres later this year.

13. Amy Herzog:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gB7-2crhrRA Her Off-Broadway play "4000 Miles" won a 2012 Obie Award and was a 2013 Pulitzer Prize finalist. Her other Off-Broadway plays, including "The Great God Plan," Mary Jane," and "Belleville," each received Drama Desk nominations.

14. Quiara Alegría Hudes:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aWlo4-yace0 Best known for writing the book for "In the Heights," Hudes' Off-Broadway play "Water by the Spoonful" won her the 2012 Pulitzer Prize for Drama. Her most recent musical "Miss You Like Hell," which she wrote with Erin McKeown, played Off-Broadway last year.

15. Lucy Kirkwood:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2JF_H-LDfFA This British playwright has found success on West End and on Broadway. Her most famous play, "The Children," premiered in London in 2016, opened on Broadway a year later, and earned two Tony nominations.

16. Young Jean Lee

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V3SX7oh1IiQ Lee has written and directed ten shows for her own non-profit theater company, of which she is the Artistic Director. Her most famous play, "Straight White Men," made her the first Asian-American woman to have a play produced on Broadway.

17. Jennifer Maisel:

Her 2012 Off-Broadway play "The Last Seder" is about a Long Island family coming together during a difficult time. She is a lecturer at USC's School for Dramatic Arts, and has been a Playwright in Residence for The Jewish Women's Theatre Project.

18. Martyna Majok:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pgBUNbqXS_s

This Polish-American playwright won the 2018 Pulitzer Prize for Drama for her Off-Broadway play "Cost of Living." More recently, her play "Queens," which is about a group of immigrant women growing in the New York borough of the same name, premiered Off-Broadway last year.

19. Lynn Nottage:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YcReO9WfWeQ Nottage is the only woman to have won the Pulitzer Prize for Drama twice. Her most recent major play "Sweat" is about a group of factory worker friends who are pitted against each other when layoffs occur. The play received three Tony nominations in 2017.

20. Antoinette Nwandu:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XW_FHrzzq_c Nwandu is a member of the Ars Nova Play Group, and her play "Pass Over," which ran Off-Broadway last year, became a film for Amazon that Spike Lee directed.

21. Suzan-Lori Parks:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BC6ZqMKWEOY In 2002, her play "Topdog/Underdog" made her the first African-American woman to win the Pulitzer Prize for Drama. She then was a Pulitzer Prize finalist in 2015 for her Off-Broadway play "Father Comes Home from the War (Parts 1, 2, and 3)." Her upcoming Off-Broadway play "White Noise" will premiere at the Public Theater in March of this year.

22. Theresa Rebeck:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oENy0bGjIr8 Her Off-Broadway play "Omnium Gatherum," which she wrote with Alexandra Gersten-Vassilaros, was a 2004 Pulitzer Prize finalist. Rebeck has had other Broadway plays, including "Seminar" and "Dead Accounts." Her most recent Broadway play"Bernhardt/Hamlet" is about Sarah Bernhardt's groundbreaking performance as the iconic Shakespearean protagonist.

23. Yasmina Reza:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o9CMmo-PFM8 This French playwright has had two Broadway plays, "Art" and "God of Carnage," which both received Tony nominations. Last year, she published a novel "Elisabeth," which is about a woman whose curiosity and ambition turn her quaint life into a police thriller.

24. Sarah Ruhl:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=brr2sxSIooA Two of her plays, "The Clean House" and "In the Next Room (or The Vibrator Play)," were Pulitzer Prize finalists. The latter play received three Tony nominations. More recently, her Off-Broadway play "For Peter Pan on Her 70th Birthday" received its New York premiere in 2017.

25. Laura Shamas:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BVfuKQSFUwU Having earned a Ph. D. from Pacifica Graduate Institute, Shamas has written over 40 plays. She has also published "Pop Mythology," which is an essay collection about mythology and modern life. Shamas is part-Chickasaw, and her works are featured in the Native American Women Playwrights Archive at Miami University in Ohio.

26. Lisa B. Thompson:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bk9bi5bXS3A Thompson is a professor of African and African Diaspora Studies at UT-Austin, whose play "Single Black Female" ran Off-Broadway in 2006. She has had multiple plays receive productions throughout Texas.

27. Lucy Thurber:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VuysFYrBHqQ Thurber is a playwright and opera librettist who has taught at NYU and Sarah Lawrence College. Her plays "Bottom of the World," "Scarcity," and "Tranfers" all received Off-Broadway runs during this decade.

28. Joyce Van Dyke:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GYd3X7HhCAM Van Dyke is a lecturer at Harvard Extension School. Her play "The Women Who Mapped the Stars," which tells of the discoveries made by five female Harvard astronomers, premiered last year in Cambridge. Her Off-Broadway play "Daybreak," originally called "Deported," is about the Armenian Genocide.

29. Paula Vogel:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gYFtGX60doE Vogel is a playwright who was a Creative Writing Professor at Brown University for 24 years. She has written multiple Off-Broadway plays, including "How I Learned to Drive," which received the 1998 Pulitzer Prize for Drama. Her Broadway play "Indecent" won two Tony Awards in 2017.

30. Anne Washburn:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dR01Ez6kFZw She is best known for her 2013 Off-Broadway dark comedy, "Mr. Burns, a Post-Electric Play." Despite a polarized reception, the play one Drama League nomination. Washburn's theatrical adaptation of "The Twilight Zone" is opening on West End in March.

Did we leave off your favorite female playwright? Let us know in the comments below...

[post_title] => 30 Female Playwrights You Should Know [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => 30-female-playwrights-you-should-know [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2019-03-12 11:43:29 [post_modified_gmt] => 2019-03-12 15:43:29 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=371726 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 35 [filter] => raw ) [29] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 371432 [post_author] => 2192 [post_date] => 2019-03-07 10:55:56 [post_date_gmt] => 2019-03-07 15:55:56 [post_content] => As dutiful Theatre Nerds, not even the most cynical among us should root for a Broadway show to fail. I mean, what’s the point? First of all, there’s already enough negativity in this world... And, second of all, the closing of a show puts good people out of work -- not to mention all the money that it washes down the drain. Yes, sure -- buying a ticket entitles you to an opinion (how loud you decide to scream that opinion is totally up to you). But, frankly, when a show doesn’t work it’s just plain sad. Ye olde critic for the New York Times Brooks Atkinson shared a similarly sentimental sentiment. As he put it in his review for the doomed 1958 musical “Portofino,” -- “There is something pathetic about a musical show that is hopeless. For the hopeless ones require as much work as those that succeed. There are just as many carnival-colored costumes; there is just as much cheerful scenery. The light cues are just as intricate, and the orchestrations as ebullient. Just as many attractive young people dance their feet off and smile as pleasantly. Everybody has rehearsed just as loyally, as if he were bound to succeed. What makes a hopeless musical show pathetic is the fact that the medium is glamorous and gay.” From there, he went on to tear the show to shreds. Even though we can all agree it’s a bummer to watch a show tank, there is admittedly something gleeful about reading bad reviews. Blame it on the schadenfreude, I guess (wow, I spelled “schadenfreude” all by myself! Thanks, “Avenue Q.”). Most of the time, the more scathing the review, the juicier it reads --  as long as it wasn’t written about you… THIS TIME! Here’s a small sampling of some deliciously cringeworthy snark from theatrical reviews of seasons past. Enjoy -- but try not to gloat... these shows have had it hard enough already.

1. LEGS DIAMOND (1988), 64 Performances

Frank Rich, The New York Times: Far from being a source of ridiculous slap-happiness, ''Legs Diamond'' is a sobering interlude of minimum-security imprisonment that may inspire you to pull out a pen and attend to long-neglected tasks, like finishing last Sunday's crossword puzzle or balancing a checkbook. The script is so confusing I lost its thread before the end of the first number. The unhelpful dialogue, which rarely falls trippingly from the company's highly amplified tongues, sounds as if it had been translated from foreign-language comic books. A typical punchline? ''My girls don't come cheap, and neither do sequins.'' (Actually, these sequins look as if they do.) If there's any mystery to ''Legs Diamond,'' it is the one attending [the show’s star Peter] Allen, not the gangster he purports to play. Here is a performer with a single expression - a pop-eyed, I-dare-you-not-to-love-me grin - and a harsh singing voice as taut as his face. He delivers jokes as if he were a ''Hollywood Squares'' second banana struggling with his cue cards, and his dancing amounts to a few Rockette-style high kicks and a lot of wiggling at the joints. As for Mr. Allen's songs, they are so derivative they make Andrew Lloyd Webber's scores sound idiosyncratic.

2. LENNON (2005), 49 Performances

Ben Brantley, The New York Times: In the immortal words of Yoko Ono, "Aieeeee!" A fierce primal scream -- of the kind Ms. Ono is famous for as a performance and recording artist -- is surely the healthiest response to the agony of "Lennon," the jerry-built musical shrine that opened last night at the Broadhurst Theater.

3. BRING BACK BIRDIE (1981), 4 Performances

Frank Rich, The New York Times: If the first ''Birdie'' was invigorating, the new one is depressing right up until that curtain call. Although its creators have done plenty of fine work since their first success, you'd never guess it from this mess. ''Bring Back Birdie'' is not only far inferior to its predecessor, but it is also woefully tired - as if everyone involved had abandoned hope. Instead of doing ''Bring Back Birdie,'' these people should have brought back ''Bye Bye Birdie.'' Or maybe they should have left their and our fond memories in peace. Though ''Bring Back Birdie'' aspires to bring back everyone's happy youth, it has sent its creators and audience alike crashing into a gloomy middle age.

4. THE CIVIL WAR (1998), 61 Performances

Ben Brantley, The New York Times: In the wake of any war come questions, dazed, wondering questions. What, finally, did we gain from fighting? What did we learn? Why did this conflict have to happen in the first place? Perhaps, then, it is appropriate that the new musical called ''The Civil War,'' whose subject is nothing less than what its grand, stark title promises, should provoke a similar litany of questions. Why are we here at the St. James Theater? What is the point in remaining for more than two hours? Why would anyone stage a show that improbably drains the drama from what is still the most fraught and painful chapter in American history? The show arranges its archetypal elements into confoundingly static patterns, laying out all its cards in its opening minutes and then failing to combine them in ways that would build to revelation or strong emotional response. Though the musical covers the full span of the war, with the names, dates and casualty counts of major battles projected in supertitles, you eventually come to feel that you have been watching the same rotating diorama.

5. TABOO (2003), 100 Performances

Peter Marks, The Washington Post: Experiencing the stultifying "Taboo," you feel as if you could be standing on a shaky pier on the edge of theaterland, waving the SS Broadway Musical goodbye. This sort of sensation comes on those dispiriting nights when big, new, expensive shows bearing all the telltale signs of actual entertainment -- starry names, busy choreography, lighting -- reveal how far the musical has strayed from traditional craftsmanship. During these peculiar events, you find yourself questioning the entire institution of Broadway, wondering whether anyone will ever again levitate an audience with imaginative songs painstakingly woven into a story of bona fide human consequence. The feeling will pass, of course, because the regenerative impulse in your psyche guides you to the memory of a recent success like "Avenue Q," a witty, melodious sendup of urban mores and post-graduation angst. But still, Broadway continues to shelter hokum like "Taboo," a production with such an acute case of meaning-deprivation that you almost forget what's happening as it's happening. The wasted actors -- as in misused -- include the estimable Raul Esparza, playing a cross-dressing London club promoter who narrates this musical-in-flashback. Esparza is so fired-up here you want the stagehands to keep him away from matches; he's a combustible presence, but if the performance were any more intense, it could embarrass even Mandy Patinkin.

6. THE STORY OF MY LIFE (2009), 5 Performances

Adam Feldman, Time Out New York: “The Story of My Life” is a two-man musical with a dual personality. Half of Brian Hill and Neil Bartram’s well-meaning piece examines the tension between memory and fiction, as seen through the lives of two men with a knack for verbose self-reflection; the other half is a collage of cultural platitudes about butterflies, angels and snowflakes. The show can’t decide if it wants to be Stephen Sondheim or a gift shop in Topeka. “The Story of My Life” needs fewer stories and more life. It is hard to imagine that this snowflake of a show will survive in the Broadway drift: It has wings, but it doesn’t have a prayer. --- Ben Brantley, The New York Times: In addition to jettisoning the usual excesses of tourist-trapping extravaganzas, they have tossed away such niceties as originality, credibility, tension and excitement. I don't think it's spoiling anything to tell you that [Malcolm] Gets's character is dead when the show begins. So, for all practical purposes, is "The Story of My Life." And as directed by [Richard] Maltby, [actor Will] Chase (of "Lennon" and "High Fidelity") and Mr. Gets (a Tony nominee for "Amour") sing and act with winning (and, under the circumstances, merciful) restraint. It is to their infinite credit that even when they're extolling the precious glories of snow angels and a butterfly's wings, you don't feel like punching them in the face.

7. CRY BABY (2008), 68 Performances

Ben Brantley, The New York Times: There's no delicate way of putting this. Cry-Baby is ... tasteless. ... When I said "tasteless," I meant without flavor: sweet, sour, salty, putrid or otherwise. This show in search of an identity has all the saliva-stirring properties of week-old pre-chewed gum. --- Clive Barnes, New York Post: The music comes in two rocky flavors -- cheery and droopy. It's the kind of music that makes you wonder whether you've heard it before, just before you stop caring. --- Mary Carol McCauley, The Baltimore Sun: Opportunity knocked last night at the door of the Marquis Theatre, where Cry-Baby is making its Broadway debut. But nobody answered.

8. LEAP OF FAITH (2012), 19 Performances

David Cote, Time Out New York: Want to make a ton of money? Peddle God to fools. Want to lose a ton of money? Invest in a Broadway turkey. You can’t have it both ways. It’s perfectly fine—even desirable—if your religion is crude and nonsensical, but a show as bland and confused as “Leap of Faith” is not going to make rich men of its producers (among whom are actual church leaders). The fake cash distributed by actors to audience members—so we may place it in the offertory baskets at Jonas Nightingale’s revivalist hoedowns—is all the green this wanly tacky production is likely to see.

9. LESTAT (2006), 39 Performances

Ben Brantley, The New York Times: A promising new contender has arrived in a crowded pharmaceutical field. Joining the ranks of Ambien, Lunesta, Sonata and other prescription lullaby drugs is “Lestat,” the musical sleeping pill that opened last night at the Palace Theater. Dare to look upon “Lestat” and keep your eyelids from growing heavier and heavier.

10. HURRY, HARRY (1972), 2 Performances

Clive Barnes, The New York Times: Muggings, massage parlors and disasters such as “Hurry, Harry” have all conspired to give Broadway a bad name. It is so feeble that even its opening is I suppose worthy of congratulation -- lesser men would have given up in the face of the inevitable. But the producer, Peter Grad, and the three people who wrote the book, the man who wrote the music, and the man who wrote the lyrics fought on in spite of everything. It is sad when this kind of thing happens-- sad for the backers, sad for the people who worked for it, sad for the critics forced to pan it. The critic in such circumstances is a particular innocent. Halfway through he is tempted in a paranoid fashion to wonder: “What did I ever do to you guys that you have to give me such a rotten night?’ Oh, well!”

11. GOOD VIBRATIONS (2005), 94 Performances

Ben Brantley, The New York Times: Even those who believe everything on this planet is here for a purpose may at first have trouble justifying the existence of "Good Vibrations," the singing headache that opened last night at the Eugene O'Neill Theater. But audience members strong enough to sit through this rickety jukebox of a show, which manages to purge all catchiness from the surpassingly catchy hits of the Beach Boys, will discover that the production does have a reason to be, and a noble one: "Good Vibrations" sacrifices itself, night after night and with considerable anguish, to make all other musicals on Broadway look good.

12. MARILYN: AN AMERICAN FABLE (1983), 17 Performances

Frank Rich, The New York Times: If you read all the fine print in the Playbill for ''Marilyn: An American Fable,'' you'll discover that the new musical at the Minskoff has 16 producers and 10 songwriters. If you mistakenly look up from the Playbill to watch the show itself, you may wonder whether those 26 persons were ever in the same rehearsal room - or even the same city - at the same time. On top of its many other failings, ''Marilyn'' is incoherent to the point of being loony. I defy anyone to explain - just for starters - why 10 chorus boys dressed in pink plumbers' costumes sing a song about bubble baths at the climax of Act II. [post_title] => 12 Times The Critics Were Absolutely Savage (But Not Necessarily Wrong) [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => 12-times-critics-were-absolutely-savage-not-necessarily-wrong [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2019-03-07 10:58:27 [post_modified_gmt] => 2019-03-07 15:58:27 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=371432 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 2 [filter] => raw ) [30] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 371144 [post_author] => 2182 [post_date] => 2019-02-27 09:34:16 [post_date_gmt] => 2019-02-27 14:34:16 [post_content] => Listening to cast albums and watching Instagram Live stories are great and wonderful, but what happens when you just need to see Broadway stars in a binge-able way? Here are a few of our favorite stage stars and where you can see them!

1. Tituss Burgess

via GIPHY

“The Little Mermaid” on Broadway’s original Sebastian has his star turn as a wannabe Broadway actor on Netflix’s recently finished “The Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt.” Titus Andromedon came from the deep south, where boys who wanted to do musical theatre were considered… different. He finally makes it to New York, where he meets Kimmy and Lillian, who encourage him to follow his dreams. This Netflix original series released part two of its final season in January 2019, and is still available to stream.

2. Darren Criss

via GIPHY Our favorite StarKid has been very busy since his starring role as Blaine in “Glee.” He portrayed killer Andrew Cunanan in “American Crime Story: The Assassination of Gianni Versace” in the beginning of 2018. For his unnerving performance, Criss earned a Primetime Emmy, two Screen Actors Guild awards, a Golden Globe, a Gold Derby award, and a whole slew of nominations. You can watch this FX miniseries on Netflix.

3. Meryl Streep

via GIPHY Film’s greatest living actress and the Tony award-winning powerhouse that is Meryl Streep is coming to “Big Little Lies” season two this June. She will star as Mary Louise Wright, Perry Wright’s mother, who comes to Monterey looking for answers. “Big Little Lies” is based on the novel of the same name by author Liane Moriarty. The first season of the hit show is available on HBO, which leaves plenty of time for us to binge watch before the second season hits our screens!

4. Kristin Chenoweth

via GIPHY On NBC’s “Trial and Error,” Chenoweth lets her bubbly persona shine as she plays the first lady of East Peck, Lavinia Peck-Foster, who is on trial for the murder of her husband. “Trial and Error” is a spoof of a true crime series; season one focused on another “trial,” the defendant being played by John Lithgow. This series isn’t currently available to stream (Netflix, we’re looking at you!), but if you’re dedicated, each episode is available for purchase on YouTube, Vudu, iTunes, and Google Play.

5. Viola Davis

via GIPHY The phenomenal Viola Davis from the ABC hit “How to Get Away with Murder” holds the distinction of being the first black person to have earned the “Triple Crown of Acting,” being the trifecta of a Tony, an Academy, and an Emmy award. Davis has garnered high praise for her work as Annalise Keating, a law professor who becomes dangerously ensnared in a murder plot with five of her students. “How to Get Away with Murder” is available on both Netflix and Hulu.

6. Josh Groban

via GIPHY The Tony-winning “tenor in training” landed himself a Netflix original series with Tony Danza, titled “The Good Cop.” Groban is a pathologically “good cop,” whose father was also in the NYPD - but the opposite of good. This is a funny, easy-to-watch comedic crime series, especially if you’re a fan of the classic “good cop, bad cop” trope. Season one is available to stream on Netflix.

7. Nathan Lane

via GIPHY The three-time Tony award-winning superstar plays a recurring role as Pepper Saltzman on ABC’s “Modern Family.” This mockumentary follows a mixed family’s daily life in suburban Los Angeles. Pepper is a flamboyant friend of the married couple Cameron and Mitchell. “Modern Family” is ABC’s longest running comedy series, having been aired since its premiere in 2009. You can stream this sitcom on Hulu or for free on ABC’s website. Whatever you choose to binge, you can support your favorite stage stars along the way! Did we miss your favorite? Leave a comment below... [post_title] => Here's Where You Can Find Your Favorite Stage Stars On Television [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => heres-where-you-can-find-your-favorite-stage-stars-on-television [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2019-02-27 09:34:16 [post_modified_gmt] => 2019-02-27 14:34:16 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=371144 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [31] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 370776 [post_author] => 11 [post_date] => 2019-02-26 10:28:39 [post_date_gmt] => 2019-02-26 15:28:39 [post_content] => New year, new you, new TV shows to marathon! Similar to theatre, television breathes life into stories that are important, progressive, tragic, funny, outrageous and joyful. Whether it be through a streamable platform or via a good-old-fashioned network, current TV offers plenty of picks that could translate well to the stage. From the quick-witted antics of Midge in ‘The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel’ to the devious plots of Count Olaf in ‘A Series of Unfortunate Events,’ we’ve rounded up nine shows airing this year that we think deserve a theatrical adaptation:

1. ‘The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel’

Amazon Prime’s award-winning original has swept audiences by storm with its quirky slew of characters, its lovable leading lady, its smart dialogue and its empowering story. Enter Midge Maisel, a spunky housewife living on the Upper West Side of New York City during the 1950s. With a husband, two children, and a wardrobe fit for a queen, Midge’s charmed life seems picture perfect...until her husband unexpectedly leaves, and she stumbles into a whirlwind stand-up comedy career. With a cast of colorful characters and plenty of hilarious mishaps (plus actual comedy routines), ‘Maisel’ is a shoo-in for a fabulous theatrical makeover.

2. ‘You’

The Broadway stage is no stranger to dark comedies and Netflix’s latest creepy series, ‘You’, has the potential to find its place in the theatre world. This psychological thriller quite literally follows Beck, an aspiring writer in New York City, through the eyes of her stalker, Joe Goldberg. While narrator Joe first comes across as your typical all-American guy in his twenties, an unsettling truth starts to unravel. ‘You’ is suspenseful, dramatic and could certainly make for musical material.

3. ‘The Good Place’

Imagine arriving at the pearly white gates of heaven only to find there’s been a mix-up, and you’re not supposed to be there... That’s fate for Eleanor Shellstrop (Kristen Bell) in NBC’s ‘The Good Place’. This light-hearted comedy series is full of silly twists and turns and delivers some meaningful messages too. Give us a choir of singing angels, a dancing Janet, an ensemble number about all of The Good Place’s frozen yogurt joints, and Broadway is sure to be forkin’ blessed.

4. ‘A Series Of Unfortunate Events’

A tap-dancing Count Olaf and some belting Baudelaires - we’re all about the concept of ‘A Series Of Unfortunate Events: The Musical’. This popular children’s book series- turned-Netflix-show has more than enough drama to keep audiences engaged as they watch Violet, Klaus, and Sunny narrowly escape the clutches of one ominous count. (Petition for Neil Patrick Harris to reprise Count Olaf in the Broadway musical?)

5. ‘The Chilling Adventures Of Sabrina’

The life of Sabrina Spellman no longer requires a laugh track in Netflix’s new iteration exploring the highs and lows of being a teenage witch in the normal human world. Based on a comic series of the same name, ‘The Chilling Adventures of Sabrina’ is a revamped, mystical TV show centered around its beloved half-witch, half-mortal heroine. A pinch of music, a dust of magic and a healthy dose of high school drama seems like the perfect brew for a stage adaptation that will give us chills.

6. ‘Pose’

Last year, ‘Glee’ creators Ryan Murphy and Bryan Falchuk reunited to bring the first season of ‘Pose’ to FX. This distinctive series acts as a commentary on life in New York City for a diverse ensemble of characters during the 1980s. The show includes plenty of music and dives deep into something as simple as someone's everyday life, which is why we think ‘Pose’ would make impactful theatre.

7. ‘The Handmaid's Tale’

While we’re not so sure this Hulu masterpiece lends itself to song and dance, a live retelling of ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’ saga would most certainly be a powerful production onstage. For centuries, theatre has embraced progressive storytelling - and this dystopian society in which women are forced into various roles such as child-bearers (otherwise known as “handmaids”) carries some pretty heavy albeit essential themes. The show does take audiences through different facets of the Gilead republic but focuses primarily on the hardships of one enslaved woman called June. Watching June’s journey unfold onstage is bound to make for a night of thought-provoking theatre.

8. ‘Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt’

If you’re a fan of Netflix’s wild series, ‘Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt’, which culminated in January of 2019, you’ve probably watched those Titus Andromedon musical numbers on repeat. Throughout the comedy’s four seasons, Kimmy Schmidt’s best friend Titus (a theatre nerd if there ever was one) continuously makes musical theatre references and even breaks out into song. As for the show’s premise? In the very first episode, Kimmy is rescued from an underground bunker where she was held hostage by a crazy cult leader for the past 15 years, and must then cope with adjusting to modern-day city life.

9. ‘Game Of Thrones’

Winter may be coming for the very last time in 2019, but our fingers are crossed for George R. R. Martin’s massive phenomenon to receive the theatre treatment somewhere down the road. While putting together a production of this scale would undoubtedly prove a challenge (there are dragons after all), experiencing the Seven Kingdoms onstage would be worth it. Though the journeys that take place in this fantasy realm are complex, HBO’s series shares tales of love, loss, family, and the battle between good versus evil. Kisha laz atthirarido… that’s “we can dream” in Dothraki.

Have another show you want to see adapted to theatre? Share in the comments below!

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[post_title] => Book Of Mormon Trivia [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => closed [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => book-of-mormon-trivia [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2019-02-24 19:34:33 [post_modified_gmt] => 2019-02-25 00:34:33 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?post_type=snax_quiz&p=366124 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => snax_quiz [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [33] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 370968 [post_author] => 2133 [post_date] => 2019-02-24 19:26:05 [post_date_gmt] => 2019-02-25 00:26:05 [post_content] => Musicals have been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. Although my mother despises them, I was fortunate enough to have an aunt and cousins who appreciated them and were willing to indulge me. I can't remember how old I was the first time that I saw the Rocky Horror Picture Show--other than to say that I was far too young to be watching it--but that movie changed my life; it stirred within me an intense passion for musicals that has never been quenched. In high school, I made friends with some of the drama kids. It was so cathartic to be around people who understood my passion and to be in a place where there was no judgment. During intermission, we'd jam to showtunes in the dressing rooms. I always ask musical theater fans what their favorite musical is, and I hear all of the standards: Phantom of the Opera, Wicked, Les Miserbles, Hamilton, and Rent, but never have I come across a fellow fan of Miss Saigon. In fact, any musical fan friend I've mentioned it to has said that while they've heard good things about the show, they have not experienced it themselves. The musical is an updated adaption of the opera Madame Butterfly by Giacomo Puccini and features a score by the genius duo behind Les Miserables, Claude-Michel Schönberg and Alain Boubil. It is Broadway's thirteenth longest running show, opening in 1991 after succeeding in the West End in London for 2 years. Filipina singer Lea Salonga made her musical debut as the lead heroine, Kim, at the age of 17. Set during the fall of Saigon during the final days of Vietnam War, the musical tells the tragic story of a young orphan who gets entangled in a world of prostitution and corruption to survive. On her first night as a bargirl at the seedy bar Dreamland, Kim's virginity is bought by a US marine, John, for his friend Chris. Chris is initially reluctant to partake in his gift, but relents, and desperate for any connection, the two fall in love. Chris vows to save Kim from her life of degradation, only for the two to be tragically separated when the US troops were suddenly recalled home. It's a tragic love story that pulls at the heartstrings and despite its risque subject matter, it never comes across as profane, just a sad way of life for these characters. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B6PoGJ-YKa0 The score is beautifully done with wonderful songs such as: "Sun and Moon" and "The Last Night of the World" two of Kim and Chris's love songs, as well as "I Still Believe," and the heartbreaking showstopper "I'd Give My Life For You." In 2014, the show was revived in London and fellow Filipina, Eva Noblezada was cast as Kim. Following a successful 2 year run, it transferred to Broadway  for a year before closing once more. A film adaption has been rumored to be in the works for years, however, nothing has as of yet, surfaced, though the 25th anniversary performance was filmed and released on DVD in the UK. Having a wide range of shows to choose from, I can honestly say that Miss Saigon is one of my absolute favorite shows. Not only does it showcase the most under-represented culture and ethnicity, but the story is so engrossing that you're sucked right in and your heart breaks along with Kim's. Her journey from scared child to fearless mother willing to die for her young son is captivating and the shocking ending leaves you in tears. This is a story of survival, love, determination, and above all else, strength that is universal to everyone. Why this amazing show isn't more popular among the theater crowd, I will never know. Seriously, if you have not seen this show, or at least listened to the soundtrack, you are missing out. There are very few times before that a show has impacted me as much as Miss Saigon did when I finished the 2014 live recording album for the first time. I am hopeful that the success of both productions of the revival will spur the film adaption on an that the revival cast will get to reprise their roles on screen; Eva Noblezada was born to play this role and after having heard her countless times on the album and seen her in the 25th anniversary live DVD, there is no one else who can do the role justice, besides Lea Salonga, of course. The OBC  and 2014 live recordings can be found on Youtube, as well as the 2001 Manila tour production -- featuring Lea Salonga. I was able to find the 25th anniversary movie on a site and download it onto my computer since it was never released in the US on either DVD or digital. Please go and check this show out. Even if it isn't your cup of tea, even if it isn't your new favorite show, it's worth a shot. 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The best lesson that my theatre teachers in high school could have ever taught me was to keep going even when you think you can’t. Every time that cast list went up and my name wasn’t where I wanted it to be, I was devastated. But I kept showing up. I kept taking on responsibilities and did my best to help out wherever possible.

We all have them. Those teachers who stick with you, even years after you have them in class. Every time you pull out the yearbook, you’re instantly flooded with memories once you come across their picture on the faculty page. These teachers didn’t just teach you what was in the syllabus. They taught you life lessons too. Lessons that stick with you for years after graduation. The very fact that you can recall these teachers shows the enormous impact that they had on you. If you were a theatre kid like I was (and still am), I’m willing to bet that this influential person was none other than your theatre teacher. They were most likely your favorite teacher (or if you had a bad experience, your least favorite). You most likely spent hours upon hours of rehearsals, tech nights, and performances with them. And most likely, they knew way too much about your personal life. If this is sounding a lot like your high school theatre experience, you’re not alone. My high school was huge. Over 2,000 students filled the hallways every day. When you already have a small circle of people you can call friends, those 2,000 classmates can feel like 2,000 strangers. By sophomore year, I was entirely out of options as for where to sit and eat lunch in the cafeteria. I remember one day very vividly. I had become so frustrated with finding a seat in the cafeteria. I had been bouncing around from table to table, trying to find a group of kids that I felt comfortable enough sitting with. Finally, I asked the cafeteria worker for a styrofoam tray and booked it to the orchestra room. I figured it would be better to eat alone in the orchestra room out of sight from the 800 kids sitting in the cafeteria than to put myself on public display as the kid who was sitting alone at lunch. That was when my orchestra teacher and high school musical director poked her head out of her office and asked me what I was doing. Me, thinking I was in trouble, tried to come up with an excuse as to why I was sitting alone in the orchestra room with my lunch. Instead of responding with anger (not that I expected her to), she invited me into her office where we launched ourselves into a discussion about the latest shows hitting Broadway that season. I finished my lunch and headed off to my next class, feeling much better about my day. That one day turned into a series of days eating lunch in my director’s office. Pretty soon, I was eating lunch there every day. I started helping out with things around her office, becoming the second pair of eyes when it came to looking over program revisions for the upcoming spring musical. I took over the responsibility of managing the costume closet that held the various costumes of musicals past. I learned so much about the business behind theatre because my theatre teacher allowed me the opportunity to do so. By the time senior year had rolled around, I took the title of “Student Business Manager.” But by then, it was truly just a formality. Over time, a few of my musical friends had started dropping in. We felt safe in the orchestra room with our musical director. She made us feel included and like we belonged. I know it’s a cliche of sorts to say that your students become your kids, but honestly my teacher was like a second mother to me. Her office was practically a second home for me and a few others. Some of us had pitched in together to buy a Keurig for the back room, further fueling my coffee addiction. At one point there was a panini maker, but once my teacher smelled bacon, she shut that down real quick. Seeing how passionate my teacher was about theatre made me passionate about theatre. She inspired me to pursue this as a career, but most importantly, always keep a love for theatre burning within me. Were there moments where I was frustrated? Sure. Every time a cast list was posted. I never got the part I wanted in the school musical. I was always the sidekick or a featured part. It took me until senior year to finally get even a supporting role. But did I let that stop my passion or the relationship that I had established with my director? No. The best lesson that my theatre teachers in high school could have ever taught me was to keep going even when you think you can’t. Every time that cast list went up and my name wasn’t where I wanted it to be, I was devastated. But I kept showing up. I kept taking on responsibilities and did my best to help out wherever possible. These were life lessons that my theatre teachers were teaching me. What matters more than how you accept victory is how you deal with defeat. I didn’t realize it at the time, but now almost a year following my high school graduation, I do. The remarkable thing is that even though I am graduated and off at college, they are still teaching me. Now and then I’ll find myself shooting off a text or e-mail to an old teacher asking for advice. And they’ll give it to me. Or vice-versa, they’ll check in and see how college is going. That is the sign of a teacher who cares. My high school orchestra teacher wasn’t the only important theatre teacher in my life. I’ve had many, many others. Each of them worthy of an entire article just for themselves. Maybe I’ll share those stories someday. But the fact of the matter is, I have been blessed to have so many significant role models in my life that have shared their love of theatre with me, therefore fostering an appreciation of the art form within myself. Whether you had a positive or negative experience with your high school theatre teacher (and whether you’ll admit it or not), they were fundamental in your development as an artist. Middle school and high school theatre are where we’re first exposed to this great art form. The educators that facilitate these programs in our schools have a tremendous task. They don’t just teach theatre. Theatre is not just acting out words on stage. Theatre is history. Theatre is music. Theatre is a science. Theatre is a math. Theatre is foreign language. Theatre is all of it wrapped in one. Our theatre teachers are tasked with teaching life. That is their importance.

Did you have an influential theatre teacher in your life? Tell us about them in the comments below!

[post_title] => The Importance Of Theatre Teachers [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => the-importance-of-theatre-teachers [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2019-02-20 10:40:00 [post_modified_gmt] => 2019-02-20 15:40:00 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=370997 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 1 [filter] => raw ) [35] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 370990 [post_author] => 1 [post_date] => 2019-02-18 16:42:37 [post_date_gmt] => 2019-02-18 21:42:37 [post_content] => [adthrive-in-post-video-player video-id="lt0zOgIa" upload-date="2019-02-18T16:05:46.000Z" name="Finish the Lyrics: UK Theatre Nerd VS US Theatre Nerd" description="Auna and a special guest play 'Finish the Lyrics' - Musical Theatre edition."] Auna and a special quest battle it out in 'Finish the Lyrics' - Musical edition. Follow Auna on Facebook HERE And Instagram HERE [post_title] => Finish the Lyrics: UK Theatre Nerd VS US Theatre Nerd [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => finish-the-lyrics-uk-theatre-nerd-vs-us-theatre-nerd [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2019-02-18 16:43:29 [post_modified_gmt] => 2019-02-18 21:43:29 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=370990 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) ) [post_count] => 36 [current_post] => -1 [in_the_loop] => [post] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 8745 [post_author] => 639 [post_date] => 2019-12-25 09:32:08 [post_date_gmt] => 2019-12-25 14:32:08 [post_content] => It’s not every day our favorite Broadway shows get made into films. These star-studded movies can either go very well (such as “Les Misérables” or “Hairspray”) or terribly wrong (did anyone see “Jersey Boys?”). What comes with these new adaptations are newer takes on some of our favorite shows, sometimes with new songs or new effects that couldn’t have been done onstage. If done correctly, like “Rent” or “Chicago,” these films can capture the musical just right and be around for us to watch for years to come.

Here are 11 musicals that are currently in production and will eventually head to the big screen:

1. ‘In the Heights'

During the crazy success of “Hamilton” in 2016, it was announced that Lin-Manuel Miranda’s 2007 hit “In the Heights” will officially be made into a film. The road to the silver screen has been a little shaky for this adaptation. This four-time Tony Award-winning musical is sure to be an amazing film, but a cast has yet to be announced. Though Miranda has enough on his plate, currently filming “Mary Poppins Returns” and recently being cast in the “DuckTales” reboot, some can’t help but hope he reprises his role as Usnavi in the film adaptation. Miranda told the Huffington Post, “I don’t want to play the role if it feels like it’s not age-appropriate with the rest of the cast. But Chris Jackson (who originated the role of Benny in the show) and I can be in the background playing dominoes during ‘When You’re Home’ and that would be f***king great.” With producers such as Jay Z already signed on to the project, this adaptation is going to warrant more than a bottle of cold champagne.

2. ‘Beautiful: The Carole King Musical’

This project is pretty new compared to the others, but it has been reported that this Tony Award-winning musical will be moving to the big screen. This musical, which first opened on Broadway in 2014, starred Jessie Mueller and won her her first Tony Award for her performance as Carole King. Variety reports the film is currently set to be produced by Sony Pictures, with Tom Hanks already signed on as one of the producers. With classic songs that appeal to all ages, this biopic musical adaptation could really be a big hit. Who do you think should play the iconic songwriter on the big screen?

3. ‘American Idiot’

This punk rock musical first graced the stage in 2010, reinventing Green Day’s 2004 concept album of the same name. The film is currently being produced by HBO and is set to be directed by Michael Mayer, the director of the Broadway musical. As of right now, there is no set date or cast for this film, but Green Day frontman Billie Joe Armstrong is already set to reprise his role as St. Jimmy. When speaking to NME, he said, “I think it’s going to be a lot different from the musical. It’s kind of more surreal, but I think there’s going to be parts of it that might offend people — which is good. I think it’s a great time to offend people. I think there’s just going to be a lot of imagery that we couldn’t pull off in the musical in the stage version. You know, I don’t want to give away too much, but it will be shocking in a way which makes you think.”

4. ‘Little Shop of Horrors’

This classic musical about a plant that comes from outer space and eats people is in talks for a musical movie remake. Though this show has not been on Broadway in recent years, the success of its two-night concert at the New York City Center in 2015, led by Jake Gyllenhaal, proves this show still has a very strong fanbase. Entertainment Weekly reports Greg Berlanti (“The Flash,” “Supergirl”) has signed on to direct the remake. With Matthew Robinson set to do the screenplay and Marc Platt Productions signed on to produce, this remake could come sooner than we think. It seems like the only thing left to do is decide on the cast. Could you imagine Tituss Burgess as Audrey II, or Neil Patrick Harris as Seymour? Of course, this is extremely wishful thinking, but the real question is, can Steve Martin reprise his frightening “Dentist!” for the new film?

5. ‘Finding Neverland’

This is a weird one to get a musical film adaptation. Unlike the other musicals on this list, “Finding Neverland” was based on a film of the same name starring Johnny Depp that told the story of how J.M. Barrie brought Peter Pan to life. Though snubbed at the Tony Awards in 2015, this Gary Barlow-scored musical has truly brought a new, magical dimension to an already great story. The show is currently on a national tour and has a pretty solid fanbase, but what would a film adaptation of a musical adaptation based on a film look like for this show? No cast or director has been assigned to the project. Here’s hoping this magical musical actually sails to the big screen.

6. ‘Matilda’

This loud musical has been in talks to become a film for the past few years. “Matilda,” based on the Roald Dahl novel of the same name, closed on Broadway on Jan. 1, 2017. Though there were talks that the movie would potentially start filming in 2016, the production has yet to get underway. To be fair, Tim Minchin has had his hands full lately. His new hit, “Groundhog Day” has been making waves on Broadway after transferring from London, where it took home the Olivier Award for Best New Musical. The hype is not dying down for this new musical anytime soon, as it was nominated for multiple Tony Awards this year. However, there is still hope for the film adaptation of “Matilda.” With Matthew Warchus signed on as the director (“Matilda,” “Groundhog Day”), the film should be able to get underway soon. Minchin told The Stage, “We didn’t want to rush it, as we wanted it to be known as a theatre piece. We didn’t want people going to the theatre saying, ‘Oh, it’s the musical of that movie.’ You want people seeing the film, saying, ‘It’s the movie of that musical.’” Minchin also said he hopes the film could wrap up by 2018. With a cast not yet announced, it’s hard to tell whether that will happen, but let’s hope production starts moving again soon. It would be a great way to see this naughty group of revolting children bring this great musical to life onscreen.

7. ‘Wicked’

After many years of rumors and speculation, this popular musical is coming to the big screen. This adaptation of Stephen Schwartz and Winnie Holzman’s musical is probably one of the most anticipated stage-to-film adaptations in production. With work already underway on the screenplay, Schwartz has given fans more to look forward to with this new movie. When speaking to Playbill just a few weeks ago, he said we can expect at least two new songs in the adaptation. Schwartz was also very adamant that his adaptation will not be exact. “There are things that work onstage but won’t work on film,” he said. “In order to do something that will work on its own merits, you have to do something different. The only concern is people who would be coming expecting to see a filmed version of the play. They’re not going to see that.” However, fans already seem to have their dream casting for this particular adaptation. With ideas of Lea Michele as Elphaba, Aaron Tveit as Fiyero and Beth Behrs as Glinda, it’s hard not to get ahead of ourselves. But what this adaptation has that most do not is an official premiere date: Dec. 20, 2019.

8. 'Hair'

NBC recently announced it would stage the popular (and controversial) 1960s musical. “Hair” will join a string of live-action musicals put on by NBC, including “Jesus Christ Superstar,” which aired on the network on Easter this year. There have been no announcements on casting yet, but theatre lovers are already speculating.

9. ‘Tick, Tick…Boom!’

Miranda is a busy guy. With “In the Heights” already in the works, he announced his intention to direct an adaptation of Jonathan Larson’s musical “Tick, Tick…Boom!” with the script written by “Dear Evan Hansen” writer Steven Levenson. In the past, Miranda has praised Larson’s work as inspirational in his personal process, and additionally played the character of Jon in a revival of the show back in 2014.

10. ‘West Side Story’

The rumors of this remake from Steven Spielberg and Tony Kushner became a reality earlier this year when a casting call went out for actors/singer/dancers for the leading roles of Tony, Maria, Anita, and Bernardo. No announcements have been made regarding actors chosen for the film or a release date, but the Spielberg/Kushner duo has audiences waiting with bated breath.

11. 'Be More Chill'

Producers of this social media sensation recently announced plans for a film adaptation. This is somewhat surprising since the show has not even opened on Broadway yet. However, Joe Iconis's runaway hit has been getting Broadway-Hit like attention since its recent sold-out run Off-Broadway. Many are predicting this as next big winner on the great white way. Needless to say, the movie is still far from being here and no timetable has yet been given. Kate Johnston also contributed to this article

What musicals do you want to see head to the big screen? Which of these eight are you most excited to see? Let us know in the comments below...

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