San Diego Parks and Rec

Friday, Oct 22, 2021 @6:00pm PDT

Join us... if you dare! A Night to Dismember

Join these monsters, maniacs, and miscreants in a haunting whodunit of murderous mayhem.

These gorgeous ghouls and dashing demons gathered last night at the Castle Von Morgue to celebrate the engagement of their host – Neville Aster-Night – to Lizzie Bordeaux, but now it seems this bewitching beauty is a widow before she's a bride.

Someone put Neville 6 feet under, and it's up to you to find out who it was.

Join us, if you dare, and get ready for so much fun it's frightening!

SAN DIEGO PARKS AND REC

Friday, June 25, 2021 @ 6pm PT

JOIN US! [post_title] => Superhero Sabotage! [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => superhero-sabotage [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2021-06-23 21:30:49 [post_modified_gmt] => 2021-06-24 01:30:49 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=391096 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [2] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 379635 [post_author] => 3360 [post_date] => 2021-04-20 06:38:14 [post_date_gmt] => 2021-04-20 10:38:14 [post_content] => San Diego Parks & Rec Friday, April 23, 2021 @6pm PST JOIN US... if you dare!

Pajama Party Panic!

There's games galore in this all-ages non-murder mystery! Get ready for some puzzles and pandemonium in your pj's. We've been planning the perfect party, but now a troublesome trickster is trying to ruin it! We need your help to figure out who it is, and prevent this prankster from sabotaging the slumber party. Get together with your friends for a high-energy mystery that's part escape room, part scavenger hunt, and ALL FUN! It's a party worth losing sleep over...

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Cleveland State University

Thursday, February 25, 2021 @ 6pm EST

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VIRTUAL MURDER MYSTERY: LETHAL LASAGNA

Zoom in to a killer event that is to die for… Old-fashioned fun, with a new twist, abounds with this memorable event of cold-blooded murderous mayhem. Our Virtual Mysteries provide a one-of-a-kind online experience where you will interact with live suspects, hoping to successfully solve the crime. The suspense begins as you enter the virtual scene where the murder has occurred. Soon after, our Host takes to the mic and prepares everyone with formal introductions of the guests and suspects. As the event progresses, the diabolical plot thickens. Shameful secrets and motives emerge; ominous red herrings confound, and no one will be above suspicion. Bring your friends. Bring your munchies and morsels. And most importantly, bring your alibis. [post_title] => CLEVELAND STATE UNIVERSITY 2-25-21 [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => cleveland-state-university-2-25-21 [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2021-02-09 01:47:05 [post_modified_gmt] => 2021-02-09 06:47:05 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=379251 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [4] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 379179 [post_author] => 3360 [post_date] => 2020-12-28 23:15:03 [post_date_gmt] => 2020-12-29 04:15:03 [post_content] =>

Hawai'i Pacific University 1/9

Saturday, Jan. 9, 2021
7pm HST

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VIRTUAL MURDER MYSTERY: LETHAL LASAGNA

Zoom in to a killer event that is to die for…

Old-fashioned fun, with a new twist, abounds with this memorable event of cold-blooded murderous mayhem. Our Virtual Mysteries provide a one-of-a-kind online experience where you will interact with live suspects, hoping to successfully solve the crime.

The suspense begins as you enter the virtual scene where the murder has occurred. Soon after, our Host takes to the mic and prepares everyone with formal introductions of the guests and suspects.

As the event progresses, the diabolical plot thickens. Shameful secrets and motives emerge; ominous red herrings confound, and no one will be above suspicion.

Bring your friends. Bring your munchies and morsels. And most importantly, bring your alibis.

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Rhode Island College

Wednesday, December 2, 2020 @ 7:00pm EST

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VIRTUAL MURDER MYSTERY: LETHAL LASAGNA

Zoom in to a killer event that is to die for… Old-fashioned fun, with a new twist, abounds with this memorable event of cold-blooded murderous mayhem. Our Virtual Mysteries provide a one-of-a-kind online experience where you will interact with live suspects, hoping to successfully solve the crime. The suspense begins as you enter the virtual scene where the murder has occurred. Soon after, our Host takes to the mic and prepares everyone with formal introductions of the guests and suspects. As the event progresses, the diabolical plot thickens. Shameful secrets and motives emerge; ominous red herrings confound, and no one will be above suspicion. Bring your friends. Bring your munchies and morsels. And most importantly, bring your alibis. [post_title] => Rhode Island College 12/2 [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => rhode-island-college-12-2 [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2020-11-28 02:43:46 [post_modified_gmt] => 2020-11-28 07:43:46 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=379165 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 1 [filter] => raw ) [6] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 371647 [post_author] => 11 [post_date] => 2020-08-30 12:21:30 [post_date_gmt] => 2020-08-30 16:21:30 [post_content] =>

Which role would you rather?

[post_title] => Would You Rather: Broadway Dream Role Edition – Volume 4 [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => would-you-rather-broadway-dream-role-edition-volume-4 [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2020-08-30 12:22:47 [post_modified_gmt] => 2020-08-30 16:22:47 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?post_type=snax_poll&p=371647 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => snax_poll [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [7] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 378539 [post_author] => 3285 [post_date] => 2020-03-03 18:17:24 [post_date_gmt] => 2020-03-03 23:17:24 [post_content] => It’s nearly been a year since we said goodbye to Crazy Ex-Girlfriend. Rachel Bloom gave a musical lover everything in that show: comedy, hilarious original songs and characters to fall in love with (Team Greg all the way!). As we mourn the loss of Rebecca Bunch from our lives, NBC has brought us a new musical show to get sucked into. What’s it all about? Well if you haven’t yet had the chance to watch the first four episodes, here is all you need to know: The show is about a young woman called Zoey, played by Jane Levy (Suburgatory and Don’t Breathe). After undertaking an MRI scan, Zoey discovers that she has the ability to hear the innermost thoughts of people around her as songs and musical numbers. The first number that Zoey hears is a huge chorus number of Help! By the Beatles. With her new powers, she discovers her best friend Max, played by Pitch Perfect’s Skylar Astin, is in love with her through hilarious covers of Sucker and I Think I Love You in the first two episodes. There is a real sentimental side to Zoey’s new power in her relationship with her father. He is suffering from a disease known as progressive supranuclear palsy where he has lost the ability to move and speak. Zoey discovers that she is able to reconnect with her father through her new ability which is shown with an emotional rendition of Cyndi Lauper’s True Colors in the Pilot. This show is hilarious and will keep you laughing throughout but it also holds some incredibly emotional and raw scenes as Zoey discovers her power is more of a gift to help others than an annoyance. If that’s not enough to persuade you, the star-studded cast also includes Alex Newell (Glee, Once on this Island Broadway), John Clarence Stewart (LUKE CAGE, The Good Fight), Lauren Graham (Gilmore Girls) and Peter Gallagher (The OC, Burlesque). We have seen some great TV shows over the years for musical lovers to obsess over from Smash to Glee and more recently High School Musical: The Musical: The Series. So why not add another one to the list? A TV show where characters can sporadically burst into song at any minute? What isn’t there to love! If you are as much of a musical theatre nerd as I am, then this is the next bingeworthy show for you. Now go ahead already and click the link below to watch the trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XtwQmnKFl_Q [post_title] => Why Zoey’s Extraordinary Playlist is going to be every Theatre Nerd’s next bingeworthy show [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => why-zoeys-extraordinary-playlist-is-going-to-be-every-theatre-nerds-next-bingeworthy-show [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2020-03-03 18:17:25 [post_modified_gmt] => 2020-03-03 23:17:25 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=378539 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [8] => 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...

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The stand up comedian Jared Logan has a joke that goes something like this: “I was on academic scholarship and then I used that money to become a theatre major. That’s like if you win the lottery and then just spend it on Beanie Babies.” Upon hearing this joke, I immediately laughed. And then I wondered: Am I laughing because of the truth behind this joke? Has he spoken to my experience as someone with a BA in Dramatic Arts? Or was I laughing because I’d heard so many people make similar comments to me about my chosen career path? Countless people have questioned my judgment when I told them I’d decided to major in theatre, and many openly wondered why I hadn’t chosen a more practical field of study, such as business, and then taken acting classes on the side. But here’s the thing: I knew I wanted to be an actor. Wouldn’t it have been a bigger waste of my and my parents’ money if I’d chosen a more “practical” major, only to devote all of my time post-grad to pursuing acting and writing? Plus, I also knew that if I ever changed my mind, my degree in theatre would qualify me for the pursuit of a Law Degree, and Business Degree, as well as prepare me for countless other careers. Here’s why: It’s all about how you view your degree, and what you see as its purpose: Many degrees, especially in the arts and humanities, don’t correlate exactly with a specific career path. Instead, they’re meant to teach you many different skills and perspectives and how to use them over the course of your professional (and personal) life. What this means is that these degrees are preparing you for a multitude of different possible futures, and those of us who earn them are able to get creative with our job prospects. This is especially true of a theatre degree. Majoring in theatre forces you to examine and practice every aspect of bringing a production to life— Many of my classmates and I tried acting, directing, dramaturgy, playwriting, stage management, design, producing, and publicity over the course of our undergraduate careers, and each discipline taught us different skills while showing us that they all bear significant connections to one another. So, we learned to apply the skills we learned to several other situations. I’ve often been asked in non-theatre-related job interviews how I might use my specific undergraduate training on the job. The truth is, I’ve been able to spin what I’ve learned in a ton of different ways to suit a particular situation. I probably learned how to do that in pursuit of my degree—Improvising at a moment’s notice is often required during live performance. Teamwork is another skill employers look for, and one that any actor can say they’ve learned: Who among us hasn’t been thrown into a cast of unfamiliar people and had to devise a whole play together based on one vague piece of text? Okay, that might be a bit of an extreme example, but working in a group is undeniably vital to the production of theatre. Many corporate jobs also require presenting in front of an audience, a given for any actor, and being able to delegate tasks, something second nature to any experienced director. We also know the value of time and deadlines, from being told by teachers that “early is on time, and on time is late.” We theatre majors know how to stay calm under pressure, or at least channel those nerves into our performance, from that opening-night adrenaline. We know how to decipher difficult language from studying Shakespeare and Congreve. Because of our creativity, we’re able to take what we’ve learned in school and use it to work, not only in entertainment, but in almost any field. So, did I spend my lottery winnings on Beanie Babies? I don’t think so: I realized that my degree taught me how to think critically about any situation I might be in. I use my training every day, sometimes in ways I didn’t even consider while still in school. And when I’m asked questions about, say, my problem-solving skills or how I work in a team, I’ve learned enough about myself in my drama classes to effectively answer my interviewer. Although theatre majors may have chosen an unconventional area of study and career path, we are prepared to take on the world and find fulfillment in doing so. [post_title] => Show This to Your Parents: The “Real World” Benefits of a Theatre Degree [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => show-this-to-your-parents-the-real-world-benefits-of-a-theatre-degree [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2019-11-10 12:31:07 [post_modified_gmt] => 2019-11-10 17:31:07 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=377947 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [10] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 377940 [post_author] => 3073 [post_date] => 2019-11-10 11:53:49 [post_date_gmt] => 2019-11-10 16:53:49 [post_content] =>

Edutain [ed-yoo-teyn] verb to educate and entertain simultaneously

How does teaching your art inform your performance? I asked five theater professionals and here’s what they say…

Forrest McClendon, The Scottsboro Boys

When I got cast in The Scottsboro Boys I remember a fellow performer said, “You’re gonna have to give up that teaching sh@% now!” I looked at him with equal parts incredulity and intrigue. “Why?” I asked. I’m still waiting for an answer. I’ve always done both. They feed each other, especially at this point in my career. I do a lot of international master classes and that largely means opening a script I happen to be working on along with my journal. It’s an opportunity for me to talk about living as an artist. In 2017, I performed in a new play directed by Taye Diggs in NYC and then commuted to the O’Neill in Connecticut to lead a workshop for writers, actors, and directors. I’m a storyteller, and making new work and training future theater-makers informs one another. I feel at home where there is a university and an Equity theater. For me, the O'Neill is Hogwarts.

Lauryn Ciardullo, Aladdin

I teach by using the experience I’ve had performing in shows but more importantly taking bits and pieces from my amazing teachers. I like to give constructive criticism by using myself as an example and sharing habits I had trouble breaking as a singer/dancer. For a singer who needs help with a vowel, I’ll start by saying “this is an exaggeration of what you’re doing” and then I will demonstrate. “Try to tweak it ever so slightly and do it this way instead.” We’re always learning no matter what age or how much experience we have. I think of myself as a fellow performer to my students. I hope to guide them as the eyes and ears of someone who may be auditioning them.

Samantha Joy Pearlman, Chasing Rainbows

I’m sure you’ve heard “Those who can’t do, teach.” I knew from a young age that could not be farther from the truth. My first voice teacher, the late great Victoria Mallory, was a working actress, teacher, mother, and beautiful spirit. She modeled what a great coach looked like for aspiring performers. Currently I’m a working actor/musician/director, in addition to a private voice teacher and acting coach. Working professionally in the entertainment business is integral to my teaching work and vice versa. I can more effectively help my clients walk into auditions or rehearsal rooms as I am there, too. I train my clients not only to master their instrument, but also to better navigate the professional landscape for the NYC theater scene. Coaching singers and actors is a deeply creative process, as well as a daily practice of empathy, listening, and collaboration. It helps keep my vocal and acting chops open and active as I dialogue with students. Teaching and performing are about curiosity and learning – I can’t imagine having one career without the other.

Natalie Weiss, Breaking Down The Riffs

I love to multitask and have 80 things going on. My hustler mindset is on 24/7 and I find it hard to take vacations. My friend is getting married in Utah? Great! How can I turn this into a business opportunity. When I first graduated, I said yes to everything, and though it’s hard for me to say "no," I’ve learned there’s also power in it. I want to give my fellow artists 100% of me, and in order to do that, I strive to find a balance between work and play for vocal, mental, and physical health. I often suffer from imposter syndrome since I don’t have a vocal pedagogy degree and I find myself making it up as I go. But it is those major breakthrough moments with a student that reaffirms I’m right where I need to be. Last year, I had 20 of my regular students join me on stage for a number in my solo show at The Green Room 42. My ultimate dream is to own a pop music school and for the first time, I saw it come to fruition. To combine performance and education for a sold-out crowd was definitely a life highlight and something I hope to achieve again and again.

Michael McElroy, Broadway Inspirational Voices

As a working actor for almost 30 years, I bring my knowledge and craft into every classroom. As a professor of vocal performance or acting the song, I create my syllabi based on exercises that allow the young actor in training to access and utilize lived experiences, develop their imagination, and build their acting skills. I develop exercises and techniques taken from my own acting work and process. Being a teacher that still performs, I must utilize in practice what I demonstrate to my students in the classroom. By teaching and remaining active in the field I continue to evolve as an actor and my students are able to see me utilizing skills that I want to instill in each of them. Those skills are an entryway into the work but also, in a more holistic way, help each student to recognize the ways in which they must approach their craft.

[post_title] => Let Me 'Edu-tain' You [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => let-me-edu-tain-you [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2019-11-11 11:50:14 [post_modified_gmt] => 2019-11-11 16:50:14 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=377940 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [11] => 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 ) [12] => 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 ) [13] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 377290 [post_author] => 3073 [post_date] => 2019-09-23 11:03:15 [post_date_gmt] => 2019-09-23 15:03:15 [post_content] => The success of a Broadway production might seem like it depends on its leading actor or a celebrity name, but the show literally could not go on without the extreme flexibility and talent of the understudy working in the ensemble night after night or the swing/standby backstage and on call, waiting for the stage manager to exclaim “ You’re on!” These four actors describe the good, the mishaps, and the hilarious behind the scenes antics of New York stage musicals. Josh Breckenridge, Come From Away

I was focusing on a Kevin J./Ali/Others in understudy rehearsal when our production stage manager told me that I was going on that night as Bob/Others. I knew Bob like the back of my hand but I was thankful for the review time in between understudy rehearsal and the actual debut. Due to my excitement I ran into and knocked over two chairs during my dialogue. The next night (I went on again) I made sure to avoid another collision. Another time was even more exciting. We were filming the show and it was only my third time on! Plus, Hillary, Bill, and Chelsea Clinton were all in the house. Nerve-racking for sure but compliments from Hilary after the show made it an unforgettable night.

Hannah Shankman, Wicked

The first time as Elphaba was such a whirlwind. I am not usually a nervous person but the role is so iconic I felt the pressure. I saw Idina Menzel play the role when the show was in previews and had been dying to play Elphaba ever since. This show is a marathon so I just had to keep on going. When the curtain came down at the end I burst into tears. I was overwhelmed with emotion and so relieved that it hadn’t been an absolute disaster. I learned Elphaba with a dance captain and our production stage manager. Our production stage manager, Marybeth, is incredible with communicating intention, motivation, and helped us create characters that were fully realized. I had one put-in with understudies/swings in my costumes/makeup and the next time I was on. Getting ready was so easy because everyone does everything for you. The ‘green team’ is incredible. The Elphaba dresser, Kathy Mulle, is a super hero and was my saving grace. She provided water, throat drops, lozenges, and is basically the offstage Elphaba. Craig, our head of makeup was in charge of painting me green, which took him about 25 minutes. MK, our hair supervisor did my pin curls and wig while I warmed up and got in the zone. I usually did a seven-minute warm-up an hour before the show. Then after I was done getting ready and painted I did a few more warm-ups before I went on stage. I was in the ensemble every night but only got two hours notice when I went on for Elphaba. That was a massive gearshift from whatever I was doing that day. I went on infrequently but cherished every time I got to play Elphaba. Her message is timeless.

John Rapson, Sweeney Todd

I’ve replaced in a couple of situations but going into Sweeney Todd was far and away the smoothest process I had. Five of us went into the show at the same time, and given the fact that there were only eight actors in the company the creative team looked at the show again and gave us a four week rehearsal process, which is rare and very generous. We saw the show from every angle, working with our magnificent swings and understudies as well as the returning cast. By the time the five of us went on as replacements and ‘opened,’ I felt fully integrated into the company.

Stephanie Gibson, Happy (Syfy)

Two seasons ago, I played the role of Cherry Sunday in Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. I was in the ensemble every night and covered Mrs. Bucket. Cherry was the crazy news reporter who announced the golden ticket winners. A true ding-dong sitcom role and I had a blast. It was lovely going on for Mrs. Bucket for the first time because she is the polar opposite of Cherry Sunday, which kept things interesting and exciting. My scenes as Mrs. Bucket were with the precious little boys playing Charlie and his grandparents so it was a delight to sing, interact, and be a part of their story. In 2015, I replaced in Cinderella, taking over for Marla Mindelle in the role of the stepsister, Gabrielle. I went into my track at the same time as Carly Rae Jepsen. Ann Harada became my sister, Fran Drescher became my mom, Todd Buonopane played my boyfriend, and Joe Carroll played the Prince. It was such a thrill to rehearse with these actors and find our own special chemistry. It was a truly gorgeous production and I was so grateful to have that experience.

[post_title] => Waiting In The Wings: The Life of An Understudy, Swing, Standby or Replacement [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => waiting-in-the-wings-the-life-of-an-understudy-swing-standby-or-replacement [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2019-09-23 16:39:04 [post_modified_gmt] => 2019-09-23 20:39:04 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=377290 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [14] => 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 ) [15] => 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 ) [16] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 370973 [post_author] => 11 [post_date] => 2019-09-03 13:16:35 [post_date_gmt] => 2019-09-03 17:16:35 [post_content] => If you’re still suffering from those pesky post-holiday blues, it might be time to start planning a future vacation. Whether you’re itching to visit a sandy beach, a lush mountain range, or a bustling metropolis, adding a dash of theatre into your getaway can make a trip even more memorable.

Pack your suitcase! Here are 11 dream vacations that will entice the theatre nerd at heart:

1. Salzburg, Austria

The hills of Salzburg are definitely alive with the sound of music - which is exactly why they were used for the set of the beloved film about Maria and the von Trapp family. If you’re a movie buff with a soft spot for this classic story, twirl and frolic through the rolling hills of Salzburg.

2. Stratford-upon-Avon, England

Nestled two hours away from London, Stratford-upon-Avon has long been a mecca for those who study and appreciate The Bard. The birthplace of William Shakespeare most certainly pays tribute to the famous playwright, and also offers a quaint and cozy getaway spot.

3. West End of London, England

Known for its incredible theatre scene, London’s West End district offers live entertainment of every genre. From hole-in-the-wall theatres producing original, avant garde work to grand-scale musicals, this charming city has it all.

4. Athens, Greece

Travel back in time and visit the ancient ruins that remain a breathtaking hotspot in Greece. Athens, known as the birthplace of western theatre, offers plenty of historical artifacts in the origins of performing arts.

5. Tokyo, Japan

Tokyo is an amazing city for food, shopping, sightseeing and - you guessed it - performing arts. The New National Theatre, a major performing arts center in the city, offers ballet, opera, contemporary dance and other drama. Audiences can also get a taste of the kabuki tradition at the regal Kabukiza Theatre.

6. Edinburgh, Scotland

[post_title] => 11 Dream Vacations For The Theatre Nerd [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => 11-dream-vacations-for-the-theatre-nerd [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2019-09-03 13:16:35 [post_modified_gmt] => 2019-09-03 17:16:35 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=370973 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 1 [filter] => raw ) [17] => 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 ) [18] => 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 ) [19] => 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 ) [20] => 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 ) [21] => 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 ) [22] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 373798 [post_author] => 11 [post_date] => 2019-08-27 07:59:32 [post_date_gmt] => 2019-08-27 11:59:32 [post_content] => A few years back, we learned that musicals and history make a good match (thanks to a little musical called ‘Hamilton’). Now, theatre is being graced with a new musical-history beast in the form of ‘Six’, the British Olivier-award nominee that will be making its way to Broadway next year opening March 12 at the Brooks Atkinson Theater. The pop concert musical centers around the six wives of King Henry VIII, most known for their gruesome short-lived marriages. This time around, audiences experience history in a new way: through the lens of each respective queen who retells her story in true pop-diva fashion. The result? A captivating, empowering musical experience that will have you rocking out the entire time.

Don't lose ur head! Get down with these important tidbits about 'Six'...

1. You’ve probably heard of King Henry’s ex-wives.

The ladies of King Henry’s court have long been adapted to both literature and Hollywood. Fictional versions such as ‘The Other Boleyn Girl’, ‘The Tudors’ and ‘Wolf Hall’ have introduced modern generations to names like Anne Boleyn and Jane Seymour -- two of the women we see featured in ‘Six’. The show also sheds light on the lesser-known queens, Catherine of Aragon, Anna of Cleves, Katherine Howard, and Henry’s final and surviving wife, Catherine Parr.

2. It’s a true concert experience.

Don’t expect to be sitting in your seat by the end of this show...in fact, rising and rocking out is encouraged during the final musical performance. The cast is small (including only the six featured cast members, plus a live all-female band) and the stage itself is of pop concert caliber. Each woman brings a different style of music to the table, subtly influenced by famous pop artists. Catherine of Aragon and Anna of Cleves both seem to channel their inner Beyoncé (albeit different musical styles from the artist), Jane Seymour belts a heartfelt ballad, and Katherine Howard brings Ariana Grande vibes.

3. It’s got a modern touch.

In this musical, Anne Boleyn uses lingo like “LOL” and Anna of Cleves sings about her profile picture (a.k.a her painted portrait). Need we say more?

4. It has a royally successful future ahead.

‘Six’ first made its debut at the Edinburgh Fringe in 2017 and went on to open Off-West End at the Arts Theatre. Subsequently, its success made way for a UK tour, followed by a recent production in the US at the Chicago Shakespeare Theatre (where it's set to play again in 2020). Along with the Chicago production, the show is set to head to Sydney for its Australian premiere and, of course, to Broadway in the coming year.

5. There is serious girl power.

In the words of the Ex-Wives, they are “Divorced. Beheaded. Died. Divorced. Beheaded. Survived.” In this unconventional retelling of the women known only for being married to a violent king, audiences are introduced to six powerful women, each with more to their story than presented in history books. This tale of empowering Tudor ladies is enough to make anyone say “YAS QUEEN.” Broadway preview performances of ‘Six’ will begin Feb. 13, 2020 and open officially at the Brooks Atkinson Theater on March 12, 2020. [post_title] => YAS QUEEN! ‘Six’ Is Coming To Broadway And Here’s Everything You Need To Know [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => yas-queen-six-is-coming-to-broadway-and-heres-everything-you-need-to-know [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2019-08-27 07:59:32 [post_modified_gmt] => 2019-08-27 11:59:32 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=373798 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [23] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 373908 [post_author] => 1 [post_date] => 2019-08-19 08:06:28 [post_date_gmt] => 2019-08-19 12:06:28 [post_content] =>

Hello! We have a last-minute acting opportunity that might be of interest to some of you. I am a casting agent with Theatre Nerds specializing in improv shows, particularly murder mystery dinners. We are contracted through Neon Entertainment, one of the leading entertainment booking agencies in the industry. I have received a request from one of their booking agents to cast a mystery this Tuesday, August 20. The event is scheduled for 6pm-9pm in Long Island, NY. We are seeking one female and three males, of various ages, for this paid job. The roles require minor preparation, and the event promises to be a lot of fun. Compensation is highly competitive (AEA members encouraged!), with additional consideration for travel expenses. Dinner is also provided. Also, we have quite a few future murder mysteries scheduled that any actor who is cast will be added to our company roster of actors, and thus be considered for future paid work. Improv skills are, obviously, a huge plus for this type of performance, but the most important thing is personality. Being open, engaging others in conversation, being quick on your feet, and the ability to be BIG are key. If this is something of interest to you, I can be reached anytime at JamieMWeisberg@gmail.com or 717-364-0650. Please feel free to share this with anyone you think would be a good fit, as well. Thank you. Jamie Weisberg Damaso Casting Agent, Theatre Nerds [post_title] => Immediate PAID Casting Call from Theatre Nerds [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => immediate-paid-casting-call-from-theatre-nerds [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2019-08-19 08:06:28 [post_modified_gmt] => 2019-08-19 12:06:28 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=373908 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [24] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 373807 [post_author] => 2529 [post_date] => 2019-08-13 08:05:42 [post_date_gmt] => 2019-08-13 12:05:42 [post_content] => After the 71st Annual Emmy Awards nominations were announced last week, the outcome became yet another reminder that we are inching further and further away from the whimsical, light-hearted place television used to hold in our hearts, and demanding much more high-quality programming than ever before. Not only are the networks losing significant visibility, the expectation for television content is arguably on par with, if not superseding, the expectation for high budget film. Television being the most consumed form of entertainment is not a new notion, we’ve had easier access to television than film for a long time. However, the hunger for thought provoking storylines and stunning visuals is continuing to rise for series especially. We now expect television to utilize very theatrical elements to considered them worthy of our time, there may be more theatre nerds out there than we thought. We may have finally reached the perfect blend of high-brow entertainment and popular entertainment, something to be excited about and pat ourselves on the back for in the midst of a particularly difficult political era. But as Moliere and Shakespeare would also tell you, political turmoil is a creative gold mine, a great consolation prize for an ulcer-inducing moment in time.

Here are five Emmy-nominated television shows that are finding success from theatrical choices:

1. 'The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel'

Creator of the now beloved 'The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel', Amy Sherman-Palladino, and her husband and co-showrunner of the show, Dan Palladino, are loud and proud theatre nerds. Theatre is an obvious passion of theirs without the need to read a single interview though, their work on 'Maisel' and their first hit, 'Gilmore Girls', scream theatre from the dialogue to costumes to heart-racing one shot takes. There aren’t many scenes in 'Maisel' that couldn’t translate to the stage flawlessly, but perhaps it would just be too easy for Sherman-Palladino? Each season of 'Maisel' has enough dialogue to be one day-long play so long as the actors keep up the super-speedy speech required, if talking at a normal pace it’d probably be a two-day event. The volume of material alone is shocking, but for each scene to keep its entertainment value, a gorgeous and accurate aesthetic, honest characters, and meaningful relationship dynamics, 'Maisel' is modern epic.

2. 'Fosse/Verdon'

The subject matter and creative team alone of 'Fosse/Verdon' is enough to maintain the television as theatre argument, but takes it a step further than what has ever had the opportunity to grace the stage in an actual Fosse/Verdon piece. As a creative geniuses, Bob Fosse and Gwen Verdon’s work will remain iconic to American theatre and continue to lend itself to the creation of more work in theatre, film, and likely much more television judging by the direction it’s heading. But their life together was what art tries so hard to reproduce and discuss. Full of gray area, imperfections, passion and everything that can’t be reduced to words, the story behind who Bob and Gwen were as people gives sense to why their work was so powerful — a theatrical achievement in itself.

3. 'Fleabag'

The most direct example of theatre to television of the bunch, 'Fleabag' began as Phoebe Waller-Bridge's one-woman show that started in London and transferred Off-Broadway. Not having the opportunity to see Waller-Bridge’s stage 'Fleabag', I can only speak to how the series uses theatrical devices of which there is no shortage of. Waller-Bridge’s character, Fleabag, acts as both our protagonist and narrator. She frequently breaks the fourth wall and speaks directly to viewers but in a particularly interesting way that audiences are not used to. Rather than listening to a narrator who simply pushes the story forward, we are Fleabag’s friend to whom she asides her innermost secrets. The viewer is special to her, the only one she allows in on her crippling vulnerabilities, making her impossible to pass judgement on. Even after learning of her most horrific deeds, things that most of us would forever cut her off for without a moment of hesitation, we are written in to love her through them. I don’t know how much more Shakespearean it can get than that.

4. 'Killing Eve'

Theatre has evolved from all over the world but we especially have Brits to thank for being a driving force that keeps it alive and well today… perhaps why they are coming for America’s TV crown. British television gains more popularity every year, and this year’s Emmy noms prove it with love for 'House of Cards' (originally a British series) and 'A Very English Scandal'. The Emmys are hit with the Waller-Bridge brilliance again for the exceptional 'Killing Eve' — a BBC America series with a book-based narrative, adapted into a cinematic piece with a theatrical edge. Rich with action, graphic death, mystery, and exciting destinations, 'Killing Eve' has the feel of Bond film without the superfluous car crashing and forced love interests. The car crashes and love interests in 'Killing Eve' have very important purposes that make it more Greek tragedy than action film. No surprise why Waller-Bridge has already signed on as a writer for the latest Bond film, reason enough to give Bond another chance.

5. 'The Act'

Speaking of Greek tragedy, 'The Act' checks that box for this year’s Emmy theatrical requirements. Since 'The Act' is based off of real events, I can’t give all the credit to this series for originality but I do tip my hat to the creators for knowing an outstanding storyline when they see one. A young girl persuades a pseudo suitor to kill her mother after said mother gives girl Munchausen Syndrome by Proxy? Sounds like Euripides to me. The complex psychology, brutal killing and aftermath of an exceptionally disgusting series of events could be a contender for the Great Dionysia festival, who do theatre nerds need to speak to about getting that reinstated?

BONUS: 'Game of Thrones'

'Game of Thrones' is a beast of it’s own by integrating the most epic of television production with the most complex storytelling. I’m reluctant to call it theatrical as it’s one of the biggest feats in television history all on it’s own, but it did comprise some of the most theatrical elements from the get-go that arguably got the theatre-as-television ball rolling. It is also equal parts American to European in production making it harder to decide in which medium it’s rooted. It is on an American network, has an American showrunner, and based on a book by an American author. But it is undoubtably a Tolkienesque (British) fantasy and largely shot in Europe with an almost entirely British cast. Whether 'Game of Thrones' is more of a television or theatrical spectacle I’ll let each theatre nerd and TV geek decide for themselves. [post_title] => 5 Emmy Nominated TV Shows For The Theatre Nerd [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => 5-emmy-nominated-tv-shows-for-the-theatre-nerd [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2019-08-13 08:13:20 [post_modified_gmt] => 2019-08-13 12:13:20 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=373807 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [25] => 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 ) [26] => 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 ) [27] => 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 ) [28] => 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 ) [29] => 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 ) [30] => 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 ) [31] => 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...

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.

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San Diego Parks and Rec

Friday, Oct 22, 2021 @6:00pm PDT

Join us... if you dare! A Night to Dismember

Join these monsters, maniacs, and miscreants in a haunting whodunit of murderous mayhem.

Someone put Neville 6 feet under, and it's up to you to find out who it was.

Join us, if you dare, and get ready for so much fun it's frightening!

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