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[post_content] => Love on a Broadway stage is rather predictable. Boy meets girl, they sing a song, they fall in love, they live happily ever after — or do they? Drama’s the name of the game behind the velvet curtain, and your favorite musicals wouldn’t be nearly as juicy without a good old-fashioned love triangle to pull at your heartstrings and loyalties and drive you crazy.
Though few Broadway love triangles have inspired the theatre nerd equivalent of “Team Edward” and “Team Jacob” T-shirts — though let’s be honest, we’d all buy them if they did — there are a few that stand out among the rest as particularly notable.
In “The Phantom of the Opera,” Christine Daae has a voice that stuns, awes and seemingly makes all the men around her fall madly and deeply in love with her. The Phantom adores her from afar as he teaches her how to sing, while her childhood sweetheart Raoul swoops in to sweep her off her feet after reappearing in her life. The two jockey for her affections throughout the musical (some in more violent ways than others), and the triangle reaches a head when The Phantom makes her choose between killing Raoul and spending the rest of her life with him. Talk about a high-stakes decision!
Best love song: “All I Ask of You” — and, of course, The Phantom’s reprise!
In “Chess,” leading lady Florence is caught between two bitter rival chess players from opposite sides of the world. She begins the show on the arm of Freddie, a hot-mouthed American, but slowly falls for the Russian Anatoly as she works to find some peace between the two in the midst of a heated chess competition. Complicating things further is Anatoly’s wife, Svetlana, making this a love rhombus.
Best love song: “I Know Him So Well”
In “A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder” rising heir Monty Navarro is torn between the newly married vixen Sibella and his pious distant cousin Phoebe. The two couldn’t be more different if they tried, and they unknowingly vie for Monty’s affections as he systematically murders his other family members to inherit his family’s fortune. Unlike others on this list, Monty inexplicably lucks out in the end as each woman decides to be with him while being totally OK with the other one. Huh. Interesting twist.
Best love song: “I’ve Decided to Marry You”
Get the tissues out. In “Miss Saigon,” soldier Chris must confront his past when he finds himself at a crossroads between his wife, Ellen, and Kim, the woman he fell in love with during his last few days stationed in Vietnam. This is one of the more tragic triangles, with Kim blinded by her faith that Chris will come looking for her and Chris’ belief that she has died. And then there’s Ellen, who you want to hate but really can’t as she, too, even wonders whether she should step aside to let Kim and Chris be together.
Best love song: “I Still Believe”
In “Wicked,” everything seems to be going great for Shiz’s new “It” couple Glinda and Fiyero until, well, it isn’t. After setting free an imprisoned lion cub together, Elphaba and Fiyero share a moment where she sees him for who he is and they clasp hands. From then on, Fiyero struggles with his growing feelings for the soon-to-be Wicked Witch of the West, breaking the heart of his bride-to-be when he ultimately chooses her.
Best love song: “I’m Not That Girl”
You all knew this was coming. This list would be wholly incomplete without an appearance from the trio that puts the “miserable” in “Les Miserables.” Eponine is madly in love with her best friend, student Marius, but he falls in love nearly immediately with Cosette when she arrives in town. Eponine even goes along with helping Marius win Cosette’s heart by bringing him by her house and delivering a letter when he’s at the barricade. Eponine loves Marius until the very end, and in some versions of the show, it appears he may love her a little too.
Best love song: “On My Own” (duh)
Oof. Awkward.[/caption]
Angelicaaaa...Elizaaaaa...and Hamilton? This “Hamilton” love triangle might not be the most historically accurate part of the show, but from the moment the words “Me, I loved him” are sung, your heart is torn in two. Alexander never really has a choice between these two Schuyler sisters (Angelica made sure of that), but that didn’t stop her from loving him from afar as he married Eliza. Though Alexander is devoted to Eliza — well, as devoted as you can be when you’re repeatedly cheating on her with your mistress — but the flirtationship between the two is tough to ignore. We’ll forever be left wondering whether the comma after “Dearest” actually meant something.
Best love song: “Satisfied”
In another horribly depressing love story, Radames is stuck in the middle of his betrothed, Princess Amneris, and Nubian slave (and secret princess) Aida. First off, if you’re loved by not one, but TWO princesses, you should call yourself pretty lucky. But I digress. To complicate things further, Aida becomes the handmaiden of Amneris, and the two develop a deep friendship. The love these three have for each other culminates as the two lovers are sentenced to death and Amneris allows them to die together in a final act of mercy.
Best love song: “A Step Too Far”
In the easiest case of “He is SO not worth it,” aspiring singers Effie and Deena fall for the same man, their sleazy manager Curtis, in “Dreamgirls.” Effie falls hard for Curtis, but he sets his sights on Deena, delivering a double whammy when he makes her the star act of the Dreamettes and dumps a pregnant Effie. Luckily, the two wisen up in the end and kick Curtis to the curb as they reunite for one final concert. Bye, Felicia.
Best love song: “And I Am Telling You I’m Not Going”
Miscommunications land two friends in the middle of this complicated love triangle, as painter Jerry falls in love with a mysterious woman who turns out to be be in a relationship with his friend Henri. Lise struggles with deciding between the two men, torn between her newfound love for Jerry and feeling beholden to Henri for the role he played in saving her during the occupation of France.
Best love song: “An American in Paris”
It might not technically count if the love stories are playing out over two separate storylines, but If/Then’s Elizabeth is caught between two men who love her as her life diverges as result of a singular decision. Should she end up with her best friend, or the soldier she met on the street? Or, to even further complicate things, there’s the matter of the crush she has on her boss, Stephen. What role does fate play in all of this?
Best love song: “You Don’t Need to Love Me”
It’s a scenario seen in every teen movie ever made: As part of a bet, distinguished phonetician Henry Higgins wagers he can teach Cockney flower girl Eliza Doolittle to act like a distinguished woman. Over time, the two form a bond that is threatened when the newly distinguished Eliza
catches the eye of the aristocratic Freddy. It is then that Henry realizes he may have come to love her — but is it too late?
Best love song: “On the Street Where You Live”
In yet another love rectangle, things get complicated among performers right from the get-go in this Irving Berlin musical, “Holiday Inn.” Jim and Lila begin the musical planning to quit their performing trio and run a country hotel, but Lila abandons the plan — and Jim — at the last minute as she reveals she’s fallen in love with their third member, Ted. Things can’t get more complicated, right? Think again. A broken-hearted Jim later falls for Linda at his inn, but when a recently single Ted returns, he starts pursuing her as well. They say there’s plenty of fish in the sea, but it seems these two can’t help themselves when it comes to chasing the same ones.
Best love song: “White Christmas”
With an explosively popular run in New York City at the Richard Rodgers Theatre, Hamilton is now planting roots in Chicago. The long-awaited production will debut on September 27 at the PrivateBank Theatre.
Twitter/@DavidKorins[/caption]
A star-studded cast will take over the famed roles in this historical musical. Tony Award-winner Karen Olivo, who will be taking on the role of Angelica Schuyler, previously starred in Lin-Manuel Miranda’s Broadway hit, In the Heights. Joshua Henry, Chicago’s Aaron Burr, is known for The Scottsboro Boys and just recently graced NYC with his performance in The Last Five Years concert earlier this month.
Miranda, cast members and enthusiastic fans have jumped on the #HamiltonCHI bandwagon. Click Here to see what the buzz is about.
Though America’s favorite Founding Father will now be portrayed by Miguel Cervantes (known best for American Idiot, If/Then and Giant), Miranda has frequently spoken out about his excitement for the Chicago premiere. He even graced the cover of Chicago Magazine alongside Cervantes. Surely, it’s not the last time we see the show’s creator team up with this new adaptation.
With the first 6 months of tickets selling out in hours, Broadway in Chicago has released another 6 months of tickets for this musical phenomenon. It's obvious that this is going to be in Chicago for quite some time. Ticket buyers are coming from all over, even some New Yorkers who have given up on getting a Broadway ticket are making the trek.
The cast has been on point with sending us teasers of this production. Seriously...if there’s anything social media is good for, it’s this. Plenty of cast and crew members have taken to Twitter and Instagram to share snippets of rehearsal in Chicago. (Way to make theatre nerds go insane!)
Okay, so your wallet still takes a hit, but a significantly smaller hit than buying a ticket in NYC. The average ticket prices to Hamilton in Chicago are between $65-$180, with premium seating up to $500 a pop. All things considered, a relatively cheaper ticket than the big apple. We theatre nerds can now just sell our blood instead of a kidney...a small price to pay to the theatre gods.
#HamiltonCHI still too expensive? This week, Broadway in Chicago announced the opening of a #Ham4Ham lottery, which allows show-goers the chance to vie for $10 seats. Prior to select performances, 44 lucky winners will be chosen to enter “the room where it happens.” CLICK HERE to enter the digital lottery.
Hamilton in Chicago began previews on Tuesday September 27th with the official opening set for October 19th. For more info visit BroadwayInChicago
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[post_content] => From Wicked to The Colour Purple to War Horse, to the recent adaptation of Matilda, books have provided the inspiration for many a hit stage production. And it continues, with the popular Roald Dahl classic Charlie and The Chocolate Factory, coming to Broadway this March after a successful run on the West End. For years, theatre creatives have sought inspiration from the minds of the literary greats, making the written word come to life on the stage. There are, however, still many texts just asking to be brought to the stage. These gems are lining the shelves of your local library or bookstore, waiting for the next Lin-Manuel to pick them up and transform them into theatrical masterpieces.
The SE Hinton classic is one of my favorite books of all time, and I often teach it to my students in conjunction with a viewing of West Side Story. The social commentary in The Outsiders is still highly relevant today and would connect with audiences of all ages. Not to mention the incredible emotional depth that Hinton lays out in each of her characters, which would be a dream for any actor.
If Mad Men, The Great Gatsby and Breakfast at Tiffany’s had a baby, it would be Amos Towles’ novel set in 1930s New York. The retro-chic glamour is described in such detail that it’s transition to the stage would simply be stunning. Add an intriguing cast of characters and well-crafted plot line, and we have a winner.
While I know this one is a comic book, that didn’t stop Clark Gesner from making You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown, which I loved. Bill Watterson’s smart humor make the content enjoyable for both children and adults. There are so many fun elements and returning motifs in the comic, such as the snowmen and Spaceman Spiff, which could be developed into a full-fledged show with the right writer to tie them all together. A few musical numbers wouldn't be a stretch either, given the well-loved comic strips of Calvin and his beloved tiger rocking out in their sunglasses.
Whether a play or a musical, MA Larson’s fairy tale twist would be a visual smorgasbord. The costumes, the sets and the special effects for this one would be nothing short of magical. It also boasts a plucky heroine who shows that princesses don’t need rescuing; they fight as warriors alongside their princes.
This book deserves stage time. There is so much to be gleaned from the historical and emotional lessons of this novel. The film adaptation was incredible, and I believe a stage version would be just as compelling. Much like The Outsiders, the emotional depth of the characters and the social commentary are particularly relevant today and would resonate with modern audiences.
This one is cheating a little bit, as Disney has already bought the rights to it. Their website launched a few years ago, and yet the project remains silent. Rumors of adaptation have been floating around for years. The cult classic would transfer well to the stage, with its characters having stood the test of time as they continue to charm new audiences. Add a ballad between Buttercup and Wesley, a rousing revenge proclamation from Inigo Montoya, and maybe some dancing R.O.U.S’, and I think we’d have the next Tony award-winning Musical.
Broadway heartthrob Jeremy Jordan meets Hollywood A-lister Anna Kendrick in this film adaptation of Jason Robert Brown’s romantically raw musical. Scandal. Heartache. Goosebump-inducing harmonies. An ex-stripper roommate who owns a snake...it’s all here.
There’s no better way to spend your next night in than basking in the glory of Babs. Barbra Streisand flaunts some serious fashion choices and her award-winning vocal chops in this classic musical.
There are approximately 525,600 reasons to watch Rent. You only need one: It’s streamable on Netflix, so why not?
Make the best of these last summer nights by watching John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John in their prime. It’s truly one of a kind (like dip da-dip da-dip doo-wop da doo-bee doo...or whatever).
With broadcast-for-television musicals receiving plenty of mixed reviews, Grease Live seems to do it right. Instead of filming on a stage, this primetime special has a whole TV lot that they’ve transformed into the world of Rydell High. Plus, it stars a host of theatre vets.
$15.95
BUY NOW
Travel back to a time of peace, love and war in this unique story woven together with Beatles hits. It’s the perfect pick after a hard day’s night.
This 1950’s classic stars Fred Astaire. Can song and dance get any better?
The Demon Barber of Fleet Street is already ultra creepy. Put Sondheim’s music with Director Tim Burton’s bizarre, melancholy style and you get a movie that’s worth the watch (if you like meat pies, of course).
What’s the use of wonderin’ if you should or shouldn’t watch this timeless tale? It’s a Rodgers and Hammerstein musical full of tragedy, heart and beautiful ballads.
This seasonal classic gives you a warm, toasty feeling no matter the time of year.
There’s plenty of song, dance and laughs to go around. Add this one to your list!
Continue the Marilyn Monroe-athon by streaming this iconic movie. We promise you’ll stop humming “There’s No Business Like Show Business” eventually...
This beloved ogre tale is now transformed into a full-fledged stage production starring Sutton Foster and Brian d'Arcy James. A rare win for those of us wanting more stage musicals on Netflix, here's your chance to see the Broadway adaptation from the comforts of your home.
Though her work in acting classes, one-on-one and on-set, Sarah of Teen Actor’s Lab has skillfully guided thousands of tentative, timid newcomers to become confident, technical, risk-taking artists. [post_title] => 3 Steps To Rocking Your College Audition Monologues [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => 3-steps-to-rocking-your-college-audition-monologues [to_ping] => [pinged] => https://teenactorslab.com/top-three-audition-game-changers/ [post_modified] => 2016-09-22 10:44:33 [post_modified_gmt] => 2016-09-22 14:44:33 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => http://theatrenerds.com/?p=4043 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [9] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 4202 [post_author] => 639 [post_date] => 2016-09-21 10:00:35 [post_date_gmt] => 2016-09-21 14:00:35 [post_content] => Whether it’s casually wanting to get your playbill signed after a show or wanting to meet the actor of your dreams, we have all stage doored at one point or another. Some stage door more than others, and depending on the show, you never quite know what to expect. There may be just a few people calmly waiting in line with you or hundreds of people pushing through to get to the barricade.
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[post_content] => Love life got you down? Get through it Theatre Nerd style with this Broadway soundtrack for the broken hearted thespian. A song for every type of romantic rejection.
Schönberg and Boublil are most well-known for a little musical tragedy called Les Mis. Their second show, however, chronicles a love story between an American soldier and a native from Vietnam, and is just as tragically beautiful.
Andrew Lippa’s roarin’ twenties musical carries a powerful story and has graced the stage with a number of big-name Broadway talent. Though overshadowed by big productions opening on Broadway the same year such as Jesus Christ Superstar, The Music Man and Kiss Me, Kate (all revivals), it definitely deserved more attention than it received.
Fans of Sondheim know that this Tony Award/Pulitzer Prize-winning masterpiece is one of the composer’s best. Unfortunately, popular Hollywood adaptations of Sondheim’s other works (i.e., Sweeney Todd or Into the Woods), Sunday in the Park seems to be overshadowed.
Nominated for Best Musical in 1998, Ragtime is believed--by many in the theatre community--to be snubbed. Weaving together a group of African Americans, European immigrants and American upper-class during the early twentieth century, this show combines spectacular music and a thought-provoking glimpse into history.
There’s no other musical quite like Piazza. It is based on the book by Elizabeth Spencer, and was written by Adam Guettel (the grandson of a little composer by the name of Richard Rodgers). This show is beloved by fans for Guettel’s unique songs. It blends classical-style music, opera and Italian as it tells a story about romantic love and the undying love of a mother.
As another Sondheim ‘hidden gem,’ this musical recounts the assassination attempts of various U.S. presidents...as told by the culprit. With the structure of a revue show and music styles spanning across decades, this morbid piece is flawlessly executed (no pun intended).
What’s better than a musical that parodies a musical? This whimsical comedy gives audiences that ‘classic Broadway’ feel, and for that we love it. Plus, there are plenty of catchy tunes and snappy dances to go around.
Fans of the iconic 90’s chick flick, You’ve Got Mail, are in for a treat. As the musical that inspired the Meg Ryan/Tom Hanks staple, She Loves Me is delicious in every way. Set in a time before e-mail (in this version, our protagonists are pen pals), we’re sure this show is sure to become a new favorite.
Breaking free from traditional Broadway style, The Last Five Years gives audiences a detailed look into modern relationships. Told from two very different perspectives, this musical is known for its innovative structure: From Cathy, the aspiring actress, we hear about the demise of the relationship; from Jamie, a successful writer, we hear about the romantic beginning.
This musical captures the heartfelt magic of the classic novel. It may not be a ‘mainstream’ hit, but hosts a collection of good music, good storytelling and gorgeous costumes. It also took home Best Book of a Musical back in 1991.
What do you get when you combine a Meryl Streep classic, the incomparable music of Jason Robert Brown, and modern-day Broadway stars, Kelli O’Hara and Steven Pasquale? Fabulousness. Reminiscent of both folk style and classic opera, Bridges may have been ahead of its time.
This musical doesn’t exactly follow the Adam Sandler/Drew Barrymore movie, but it does keep that fun and outrageous spirit. With plenty of upbeat music and an easy-to-love storyline, this underrated musical is totally one you need in your music library.
If you like your dazzling Broadway spectacle whacky and wild, On the Twentieth Century is your cup of tea. Created to parody a classic operetta, this hilarious musical follows a train from Chicago to New York City. Obviously, chaos ensues.
This Adler and Ross classic isn’t one you hear about often--but it’s full of fantastic dance numbers and songs you’ll be humming. This Broadway musical spawned popular numbers such as “Steam Heat” and “There Once Was A Man”.
While this astounding musical received plenty of acclaim in its time, we still think it’s severely underrated. Barbra Streisand (QUEEN!) originates the role of Follies girl Fanny Brice, both on Broadway and in the 1968 film version. For millennials, it doesn’t ring a bell like Hello, Dolly!, but remains a staple musical for both Babs and Broadway in general.
Rush tickets began in 1996, when “Rent” brought a whole new audience to broadway. To help accommodate for the widespread popularity of the show, rush policies were made. Rush tickets are sold the day of the show when the box office opens, usually around 10am. The tickets are listed at a discount price, ranging usually between $25 and $45. However, the number of rush tickets available is limited, so hopefuls should arrive at the theater prior to the box office opening to beat the potential crowds. Most theatres allow two rush tickets to be purchased per person. However, some only allow one, so it is wise to check the shows policies online prior to going to the theatre. There are three types of rush tickets: The first are general rush, which are available to the entire public. Student rush tickets are available with a valid student ID shown at time of purchase. The third is senior discount, which is available to seniors around the ages of 62 to 65 years old.
Most shows that do not have rush policies partake in a lottery. This allows theatre goers to enter their name in hopes of being picked to receive discounted tickets, usually priced the same as rush tickets. Lotteries are held the day of the performance, usually two and a half hours before the show begins. Winners are then picked two hours before the performance. In some cases, such as with shows and “Fun Home,” lotteries are held digitally. Digital lotteries, however, vary from show to show. “Fun Home” holds its digital lottery beginning at midnight each day through the TodayTix app. Lotteries are much less reliable than rush tickets. Depending on the show and day of the week, a large amount of people could potentially enter the lottery. For instance, this season’s most talked about musical, “Hamilton,” holds a lottery in which twenty or so selected winners receive $10 tickets to the show. Only $10 to see Broadway’s hottest musical? Sounds great! But thousands of people enter the lottery every single day. This makes the chances of winning extremely slim. For shows that are not so new, however, such as “Wicked,” chances of winning the lottery are significantly higher.
When a performance is entirely sold out, some shows, such as “Chicago” and “The Color Purple,” sell a limited number of standing room tickets. These tickets, in which you must stand for the show, are available on the day of the performance. Usually priced between $20 and $30, each customer is allowed to purchase two tickets by means of cash or credit.
The TodayTix app was launched in 2013 by Tony Award-winning producer Merritt Baer and his childhood friend and fellow producer Brian M. Fenty. TodayTix is the first app to offer discounted, last minute theatre tickets. Buyers can check the app a few days in advance up until a few minutes before curtain to get great seats at discounted seats. TodayTix is available for free on both Android and Apple devices. For more information, visit www.todaytix.com.
Though tickets at the TKTS Booth may be a bit more expensive than methods already mentioned, it is still a great way to get discounted tickets at last minute. With three locations in New York City, the largest directly in Times Square, the booth sells unsold theatre tickets at up to 50% off. The booth also sells full price tickets to future performances as well as discounted day off tickets. For more information, visit www.tdf.org.
We are so thankful for these policies that allow us to get discounted tickets to our favorite Broadway show! For a full list of rush, lottery, and standing room only policies, GO HERE
[post_title] => Broadway On A Budget: 5 Ways To Get Discounted Tickets
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[post_content] => You’ve probably heard the speech once or twice … a day …
every day of tech …
for every show you’ve taken part of:
“Please,” (they usually say ‘please’, it makes it seem like a request instead of a command) “if the prop isn’t yours, don’t touch it”
Well, from a seasoned Properties Designer, I will let you in on a little secret: you probably could touch it, and the world wouldn’t end ...
But if you break it, well, may the theatre gods and the Stage Manager have mercy on your soul!
Props people are pretty well caricatured as over-anxious perfectionists desperately intent on protecting their wares. I’m not saying that we’re all like that, but like any good caricature, there is definitely some truth there. We can get a little edgy - but it isn’t our fault you know, it isn’t easy being a Properties Designer.
Do you even know exactly what a Props Designer’s job is? I’m only asking because I’ve worked as one for over 10 years, and it has never been made exactly clear to me. Every group, every person, seems to have a different idea of what constitutes a prop, and what all Props Designers should be in charge of.
If you believe the lists in the back of the Actor’s Edition of any script, Props are things carried on or off stage during the show. That’s the easy definition - the one most people understand - and the job would be a lot easier if this definition stuck. Another definition, a more comprehensive one, is anything that is not nailed down to the set - which, as you can imagine, really makes that list grow quite a bit.
You see, there are the hand props, but you also have costume props and set dressing. So you ask the Set Designer about who gets the furniture and dressing, and you check to see if the Costume Designer has specific wants for the hats and purses, and you coordinate with the Lighting Designer on the lantern that serves as the only light in a scene, and you work with the Sound Designer on the working 1920s microphone. So, you talk, and you negotiate, and you collaborate with the other designers and THEN you make your lists and hope beyond hope that you’ve thought of everything … But you haven’t, because all during rehearsals, you’ll be getting notes of new things that need to be gotten - and lots and lots of reminders of things that you already know.
So, now you have your ever-fluctuating list. Now what? Well, if you’re lucky, you are working on a show set in modern time, and you can just run out to the store and pick up what you need, or find it in props storage (again, if you’re lucky enough to have one). If you’re not-so-lucky, than you have to do research - a LOT of research. You’d be surprised how much obscure history you have to learn as a Props Designer. For instance, did you know that barcodes were not placed on products until 1974? And ballpoint pens were not commonplace in the home until the late 50s, early 60s? You need to know this kind of thing if you want to do Props for show.
But even this is subject to change, because it is not your job to be 100% historically accurate - unless you are directed to be so, which you never are, because like all Designers, we make a world that is at the intersection of: What Is Right, What The Director Wants, and What The Audience Will Believe … oh yeah, and What Is Possible (that last one is the most important - budget rules our artistic lives).
Getting/Making the props can either be where all the fun is, or the most stressful part. It is different for every one, for every show, every time. Me? I love it. Essentially we get paid (if you’re lucky) to shop and do crafts. Do you like flea markets, rummage sales, thrift shops, antique malls, Arts & Crafts and Hardware Stores? Let’s hope so, because you spend a large amount of your time at one place or another, searching for the things you need.
Sometimes that obtaining process is … a bit of a challenge. I can’t say that I know this for a fact, but I’m pretty sure that all good props designers are probably on some kind government watch list. Have you ever done Twelve Angry Men? Or West Side Story? How about Wait Until Dark? Or Sweeney Todd? Or Assassins? Do you think it’s easy to get weapons without arousing suspicions? Switchblades and Brass Knuckles are illegal - but props designers everywhere have to find them, or at least find realistic look-alikes. Weapons are hard, but there are more embarrassing things in a props designer’s life: Soap-on-a-Rope, nazi arm-bands and flags, severed limbs, several Red G-strings, ingredients for meth, vibrators, joints, handcuffs, pills, chains, pipes … the list goes on and on, and those are just the things I’ve had to buy - you don’t even want to know some of the things I had had to make!
But the worst? The worst is Food Props. Yes, Actors, that’s right. We have something in common. I’m fairly certain that we can all get together on this: Food Props just suck. For everyone. Trust me, Actors, I empathize with you, and trust me, it is no fun for us either: it is a drain on our budget; we have to work within everybody’s dietary restrictions; they’re a pain to keep replacing and making every day; and if they actually are good, they have a tendency to disappear.
But there is one thing to be said about Props Designers and Food Props: Jesus isn’t the only one who can turn water into wine. We can too - and we’ll even do you one better and turn it into whiskey, scotch, tequila, rum, you name it, we do it. All for you actors, all for you!
You see? We don’t hate actors. It’s true, you sometimes drive us crazy, but we don’t hate you. We need you as much as you need us. We also appreciate you. There is nothing so satisfying as an actor who takes a special interest in our props. Someone who really owns it, and uses it to their character’s advantage. It sounds silly, but other Props Designers will understand - it’s the little things in life.
Like most Designers, for us Props people, we don’t look for recognition from the average theatre audience member. I mean, what do you think someone would say if you went up to them after the performance and asked what they thought of the props? There are some exceptions, but most of the time, if the audience didn’t take notice of it, it means we didn’t do anything wrong - and we celebrate!
Still, the next time you work on a show, take note of the Props and Dressing around you. Sometimes a Designer will find a way to leave their mark somewhere - either hidden on set, or taped to the furniture, or written in the notebook. Take notice of their work, and respect it …
That’s our boy on the left[/caption]
She graduated from Fordham University School of Law, she’s a lawyer...oh! and also a scientist.
Release Date: September 25, 2015
Votes: 86 Theatre Nerds
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Release Date: December 16, 2003
Votes: 74 Theatre Nerds
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Release Date: February 7, 2012
Votes: 68 Theatre Nerds
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Release Date: 1985
Votes: 61 Theatre Nerds
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Release Date: December 10, 1991
Votes: 57 Theatre Nerds
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Release Date: January 19, 1988
Votes: 53 Theatre Nerds
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Release Date: October 22, 2013
Votes: 49 Theatre Nerds
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Release Date: August 27, 1996
Votes: 47 Theatre Nerds
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Release Date: May 12, 2009
Votes: 42 Theatre Nerds
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Release Date: October 7, 2003
Votes: 38 Theatre Nerds
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Release Date: December 12, 2006
Votes: 37 Theatre Nerds
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Release Date: 1964
Votes: 33
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Release Date: July 17, 2007
Votes: 28
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Release Date: 1971
Votes: 26
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Release Date: May 11, 2004
Votes: 23
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Release Date: 1982
Votes: 20
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Release Date: August 13, 2002
Votes: 19
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Release Date: May 15, 2012
Votes: 17
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Release date: July 8, 2016
Votes: 16
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I’m ‘a get a scholarship to King’s College / I prob’ly shouldn’t brag, but dag, I amaze and astonish…”
Though King’s College is now known as Columbia University, this institution is where Hamilton got his education after arriving in America. While you’re strolling around the grounds, turn up “My Shot” and “Farmer Refuted” and imagine what it was like to study here in the midst of a revolution. Outside Hamilton Hall, snap a shot or two of the statue of the ten-dollar Founding Father. Afterward, head down the street to the worshipped Hamilton Deli (otherwise known as Hamdel) for a sandwich that will guarantee that “you’ll be back.”
“Two Virginians and an immigrant walk into a room, diametrically opposed foes...”
If you want to be in the room where it happens, head to the Thomas Jefferson Residence at 57 Maiden Lane. Jefferson rented out this space while he was serving as secretary of state, and it is the spot of the infamous dinner between Hamilton, Jefferson and Madison that settled the Compromise of 1790 (and none for Aaron Burr, bye!) Though the home is no longer standing, there is a plaque you can read and take pictures of that commemorates the site’s history.
“Eliza, do you like it uptown? It’s quiet uptown…”
Hamilton’s love for the city of New York is a prevalent theme throughout the musical, and though he only lived in this Harlem estate for two years before his death, it’s a can’t-miss stop for any Hamilton fan. Press pause on your 100th listen to “It’s Quiet Uptown” and take a break to check out the interactive exhibit in this Federalist-style home. The National Park Service website for the Hamilton Grange does advise you to arrive 30 minutes before the time you’d like to take a tour — believe it or not, its popularity has been kicked up a notch over the past year!
“Weehawken. Dawn. Guns. Drawn.”
“You’re on.”
A tour of the best Hamilton landmarks would be incomplete without a trip across the Hudson into Jersey — everything is legal in New Jersey. Weehawken is the site of not one, but two deadly duels in the show as both Phillip and Alexander Hamilton faced off with their enemies there. Though the original site has been covered up by train tracks, you can still check out a monument while you’re there and imagine what it was like for Hamilton and Aaron Burr to let their political rivalry reach such a violent point. And, of course, you won’t be able to help humming “The Ten Duel Commandments” under your breath.
“She is buried in Trinity Church near you…”
Hamilton spent his entire life working tirelessly to secure his legacy in history, and Trinity Church Cemetery is the perfect place to go pay your respects. Eliza Hamilton, Angelica Schuyler and Phillip Hamilton are buried here as well. The epitaph on Hamilton’s tombstone honors him with these words:
While Smash may have not been a smash hit among the masses, it’s a delicious watch for anyone interested in what it takes to bring a Broadway workshop all the way to Opening Night. Starring Debra Messing, Katharine McPhee and a host of Broadway favorites (Megan Hilty, Christian Borle, Will Chase and Brian d'Arcy James to name a few), the series chronicles the creation of Bombshell, a musical based on the life of Marilyn Monroe. Smash includes a stellar soundtrack, epic choreography and the perfect amount of scandal and drama.
How To Watch? AMAZON
To watch or not to watch Slings & Arrows? This is no question! Slings and Arrows traces the lives of the cast and crew of the “New Burbage Shakespeare Festival” (loosely based on the Stratford Festival). This canadian series, which ran in the late ‘90s a hidden gem for any thespian. Each of the shows three seasons focuses on one season the festival and one production in particular - “Hamlet,” “MacBeth,” and “King Lear” respectively. Following the ups and downs of a mentally unstable artist director, recently returned from a stint in an institution, and a whole host of actors, crew-members and festival managers, this show gives you characters that you have met in your own life as a theatre nerd, but are at the same time unique and original. Oh! And there’s a theatre ghost too!
(This one is Theatre Nerd’s Editor in Chief Ben Bailey’s absolutely favorite btw)
How to watch? AMAZON
Say what you will about Ryan Murphy’s overdramatized, far-fetched comedy---Glee brought plenty of famous theatre tunes to light during its six-season reign. Once you’ve accepted that outrageous plotlines and petty high school bickering are the norm, it’s easy to appreciate the unique renditions of “Don’t Rain On My Parade” or “Defying Gravity.” This is the perfect show to binge-watch over a bowl of ice cream or a big old glass of wine.
How to watch? AMAZON
Technically, this one’s a documentary...but it’s the perfect choice for theatre nerds who love reality TV! Think of Broadway or Bust as the So You Think You Can Dance of theatre. The show takes 60 of the best performers from high schools across the nation and puts them to the test (what would reality TV be without a competition?). Aspiring actors undergo a rigorous song and dance boot-camp and give showstopping performances.
How to watch? PBS
Actress Penny Reilly dreams of making it big in NYC, but it’s not all glitz and glam. This hilarious web series dives into the dog-eat-dog audition process and spotlights a star-studded cast. It features cameos from Chita Rivera, Audra McDonald, Lin-Manuel Miranda, Adam Pascal, Kristin Chenoweth, Kelli O’Hara, Danny Burstein and more. What theatre nerd wouldn’t want to watch this?
How to watch? submissionsonly.com
While several Broadway performers have a range going to high heaven, lower female belters such as Angela Lansbury, Elaine Stritch, and Patti Lupone are also well-respected. However, with the current trends in musical theatre favoring high belters, altos might be short on finding audition repertoire that’s not overused. But fear not! Maybe this time, here we can hit you with a hot note!
Unfazed by all the other silent audience members or the spotlights and microphones that indicate all action is to take place onstage, The Talker can’t help but comment on every scene and offer their own sassy remark to every single joke. The Talker is often surrounded by friends who are either Talkers themselves, or spend the entire show mortified that their friend has spoken so many lines they’ve practically landed a principal role.
Nothing, I repeat, NOTHING is important enough to stop The Texter from click clickity clacking their fingers to send out a few more messages to their friends. Never mind that their lit-up cell screen is a beacon bright enough to distract the cast of “Spamalot” from their quest for the Holy Grail. The Texter is also a nightmare for actors, who have to pour their heart and soul out onstage while one eye is glued to the glowing screen waving about in the orchestra.
I know, I know, without The Filmer, we wouldn’t be able to enjoy hours upon hours of hours of bootlegged show footage on YouTube. But the practice is technically illegal, and pretty annoying for anyone sitting next to The Filmer, who is quite obviously angling their iPhone toward the stage and propping it up to get a better angle.
Undeterred by less-than-comfortable chairs and a prohibitive armrest, The Cuddlers are on a Tony-and-Maria mission, snuggled up so close not even a Jets and Sharks war could tear them apart. But what The Cuddlers don’t realize is that together, they’re creating a Les Miserables-level barricade that’s preventing anyone behind them from comfortably seeing the stage. WE GET IT, YOU’RE IN LOVE. But maybe keep the canoodling to intermission, like the rest of us.
You know when there’s an announcement before the show where everyone is asked to unwrap their candy BEFORE the show and not during it and you wonder, “Who on earth would bring wrapped candy to this production?” Well, The Muncher did, along with a whole other slew of snacks guaranteed to satisfy their hunger and annoy everyone else. Nothing ruins a dramatic, powerful silence onstage like the crunching sound of chomped-up Pringles behind you — true story.
Personal space, shmersonal shmace. The Snuggler may have bought a ticket for one, but that’s not going to stop them from taking over both armrests and leaning in super, suuuuuuper close you to get a better view of the action. Hey, Snuggler, make like Glinda and get back to traveling in your own personal bubble.
Presumably inspired by “Bend It Like Beckham: The Musical,” The World Cup Player has decided that the back of your chair is their own personal foot rest — and boy, oh boy, are they fidgety. The World Cup Player spends the show tapping your chair gleefully along to the beat, and even if their rhythm is impeccable, no, we do not get a kick out of you.
The Panicky Parker may be physically in the theater, but mentally, they are down the street, in their car, imagining how horrible traffic is going to be after the show. The moment the stage goes black and the first audience member puts their hands together, The Panicky Parker has risen, grabbed their belongings and bolted across the row into the aisle, blocking everyone else’s view as the bows begin.
We’ve all been there. We really have. And we feel for you. But when The Phlegm Monster can’t help but let out a string of coughs longer than the showstopping belt by the leading lady, there’s a problem. Many Phlegm Monsters try to be considerate and wait until there’s applause to hack away, but others can’t help but interrupt the most dramatic moment of the show with a cough that echoes throughout the wings and makes everyone cringe.
“Excuse me...excuse me...pardon me, can I just—excuse me.” This mantra sounds all-too-familiar coming from The Roamer, who just can’t seem to get to the theater on time, or stay in their seat. The Roamer shows up at least 15 minutes after the overture and refuses to wait until a scene break to shuffle down a row of already seated, irritated patrons. The Roamer also inevitably has to use the bathroom mid-show and takes the longest route possible to weave their way around the legs of eye-rolling theatergoers.
The snoozer's dead give away is a constant head bobbing up and down as they drift away into lala land. And if that wasn't enough, the violent jerk and squeal as they wake is sure to let everyone know what's going on. Perhaps even worse is the successful sleeper that starts to accent the performance with a soft snore.
Almost worst than the muncher, the "unwrapper" slowly twists the packaging of the hard candy as if to say "I'm trying to be quiet and respectful". In reality it's creating a kind of chalkboard-screeching torture to everyone in the immediate area. The collective audience's inner-monologue is saying "just unwrap that freaking thing already".
*TheatreNerds is not a doctor. This is theatre nerd advice, not to be confused with medical advice. If you’re having serious vocal health concerns, consult with your physician. ☺
[post_title] => 8 Things That Go Through Your Head Before The Show Starts (Audience POV)
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[post_content] => Twitter: A magical place where theatre nerds can follow the every-day lives of their favorite thespians. While tons of performers have jumped on the tweeting bandwagon, these five Broadway stars are killin’ it in 140 characters: (#goals #flawless)
When it comes to social media, She Loves Me star Laura Benanti is just like you. As Broadway’s unofficial Queen of Twitter, her tweets are all about food (“I managed to spill chocolate all over my hotel sheets. I'm gonna leave the cleaning people a note that simply says "NOT POOP."”), being famous (“Literally every single time a clean handsome man is checking me out it’s a gay man who loved me in Gypsy”) and the finer things in life ( “I JUST SAW A MAN KICK A RAT WHAT IS HAPPENING WHAT DID THAT RAT EVER DO TO YOU SIR FOR ALL YOU KNOW HE COULD BE AN AMAZING CHEF IN PARIS.”). If you’re not following @LauraBenanti you’re just doing Twitter wrong.
Fans of Hamilton (okay, so, basically everyone) have had a field day watching this musical come to fruition through the virtual eyes of Lin-Manuel Miranda. As an avid tweeter, Miranda is known for posting hilarious behind-the-scenes photos, relatable tweets about life, stories of people mistaking Hamilton for Hamlet and even writing 140-character raps. It’s safe to say this superstar will be up to more big things in the future, and we’re tuning into @Lin_Manuel for the inside scoop.
For years, this A-lister (and Hedwig and the Angry Inch star) has been open about his love for the arts. He frequently tweets about shows he sees in NYC, ways to give back to charitable organizations and recipes he loves (husband David Burtka is a professional chef). NPH is also certainly not shy about sharing photos of his adorable kids, Harper and Gideon. For this reason alone, anyone not following @ActuallyNPH is missing out on serious cuteness overload.
When it comes to ‘real talk’, Idina Menzel is your girl. The Wicked fav uses her account, @idinamenzel, not only to give the 411 on projects and concerts, but to respond to her tweethearts with Twitter’s most adorable witty remarks. She’s a rockstar when it comes to replying to fans and we totally can’t get enough of that sassy sarcasm.
Just like every good theatre nerd, @LauraOsnes is all about fangirling. The Cinderella starlet spends her days tweeting about the latest shows on Broadway, encounters with her favorite Tony winners, cute dates with Broadway Style Guide photographer and husband, Nathan Johnson, and her many trips to her frozen yogurt haven, 16 Handles. We can’t help but love her posts about #Lylathedog and the fact that she geeks out about theatre just as must as we do!
Rehearsal time during any show is crucial and often limited. Cast members, dancers, and crew work for hours on end to ensure a show is in top form before performance time. Like an episode “Grizzly Man,” the process can be grueling, and you have to be prepared for anything. While your script is the most crucial item to show up to every rehearsal with, a well-stocked rehearsal bag can be a major asset. Look to the wisdom of the boy scouts and always be prepared - lest you find yourself with a bad case of the “hangries” with four more hours of tap-dancing ahead of you.
Here are my top ten essentials to keep in your rehearsal bag...
It’s also important to consider In-State vs Out-of-State tuition costs. Out-of-State schools could be significantly more expensive. The exception being private universities, which charge the same (often pricey) tuition for all students. Talk with your parents and decide what works best for your family. And don’t forget about financial aid!! There are tons of scholarship resources out there in addition to FAFSA and your scholarships from your particular school. Plenty of organizations offer scholarships too!
https://college.usatoday.com/2012/01/30/the-10-best-sites-to-look-for-scholarships/
In “The Phantom of the Opera,” Christine Daae has a voice that stuns, awes and seemingly makes all the men around her fall madly and deeply in love with her. The Phantom adores her from afar as he teaches her how to sing, while her childhood sweetheart Raoul swoops in to sweep her off her feet after reappearing in her life. The two jockey for her affections throughout the musical (some in more violent ways than others), and the triangle reaches a head when The Phantom makes her choose between killing Raoul and spending the rest of her life with him. Talk about a high-stakes decision!
Best love song: “All I Ask of You” — and, of course, The Phantom’s reprise!
In “Chess,” leading lady Florence is caught between two bitter rival chess players from opposite sides of the world. She begins the show on the arm of Freddie, a hot-mouthed American, but slowly falls for the Russian Anatoly as she works to find some peace between the two in the midst of a heated chess competition. Complicating things further is Anatoly’s wife, Svetlana, making this a love rhombus.
Best love song: “I Know Him So Well”
In “A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder” rising heir Monty Navarro is torn between the newly married vixen Sibella and his pious distant cousin Phoebe. The two couldn’t be more different if they tried, and they unknowingly vie for Monty’s affections as he systematically murders his other family members to inherit his family’s fortune. Unlike others on this list, Monty inexplicably lucks out in the end as each woman decides to be with him while being totally OK with the other one. Huh. Interesting twist.
Best love song: “I’ve Decided to Marry You”
Get the tissues out. In “Miss Saigon,” soldier Chris must confront his past when he finds himself at a crossroads between his wife, Ellen, and Kim, the woman he fell in love with during his last few days stationed in Vietnam. This is one of the more tragic triangles, with Kim blinded by her faith that Chris will come looking for her and Chris’ belief that she has died. And then there’s Ellen, who you want to hate but really can’t as she, too, even wonders whether she should step aside to let Kim and Chris be together.
Best love song: “I Still Believe”
In “Wicked,” everything seems to be going great for Shiz’s new “It” couple Glinda and Fiyero until, well, it isn’t. After setting free an imprisoned lion cub together, Elphaba and Fiyero share a moment where she sees him for who he is and they clasp hands. From then on, Fiyero struggles with his growing feelings for the soon-to-be Wicked Witch of the West, breaking the heart of his bride-to-be when he ultimately chooses her.
Best love song: “I’m Not That Girl”
You all knew this was coming. This list would be wholly incomplete without an appearance from the trio that puts the “miserable” in “Les Miserables.” Eponine is madly in love with her best friend, student Marius, but he falls in love nearly immediately with Cosette when she arrives in town. Eponine even goes along with helping Marius win Cosette’s heart by bringing him by her house and delivering a letter when he’s at the barricade. Eponine loves Marius until the very end, and in some versions of the show, it appears he may love her a little too.
Best love song: “On My Own” (duh)
Oof. Awkward.[/caption]
Angelicaaaa...Elizaaaaa...and Hamilton? This “Hamilton” love triangle might not be the most historically accurate part of the show, but from the moment the words “Me, I loved him” are sung, your heart is torn in two. Alexander never really has a choice between these two Schuyler sisters (Angelica made sure of that), but that didn’t stop her from loving him from afar as he married Eliza. Though Alexander is devoted to Eliza — well, as devoted as you can be when you’re repeatedly cheating on her with your mistress — but the flirtationship between the two is tough to ignore. We’ll forever be left wondering whether the comma after “Dearest” actually meant something.
Best love song: “Satisfied”
In another horribly depressing love story, Radames is stuck in the middle of his betrothed, Princess Amneris, and Nubian slave (and secret princess) Aida. First off, if you’re loved by not one, but TWO princesses, you should call yourself pretty lucky. But I digress. To complicate things further, Aida becomes the handmaiden of Amneris, and the two develop a deep friendship. The love these three have for each other culminates as the two lovers are sentenced to death and Amneris allows them to die together in a final act of mercy.
Best love song: “A Step Too Far”
In the easiest case of “He is SO not worth it,” aspiring singers Effie and Deena fall for the same man, their sleazy manager Curtis, in “Dreamgirls.” Effie falls hard for Curtis, but he sets his sights on Deena, delivering a double whammy when he makes her the star act of the Dreamettes and dumps a pregnant Effie. Luckily, the two wisen up in the end and kick Curtis to the curb as they reunite for one final concert. Bye, Felicia.
Best love song: “And I Am Telling You I’m Not Going”
Miscommunications land two friends in the middle of this complicated love triangle, as painter Jerry falls in love with a mysterious woman who turns out to be be in a relationship with his friend Henri. Lise struggles with deciding between the two men, torn between her newfound love for Jerry and feeling beholden to Henri for the role he played in saving her during the occupation of France.
Best love song: “An American in Paris”
It might not technically count if the love stories are playing out over two separate storylines, but If/Then’s Elizabeth is caught between two men who love her as her life diverges as result of a singular decision. Should she end up with her best friend, or the soldier she met on the street? Or, to even further complicate things, there’s the matter of the crush she has on her boss, Stephen. What role does fate play in all of this?
Best love song: “You Don’t Need to Love Me”
It’s a scenario seen in every teen movie ever made: As part of a bet, distinguished phonetician Henry Higgins wagers he can teach Cockney flower girl Eliza Doolittle to act like a distinguished woman. Over time, the two form a bond that is threatened when the newly distinguished Eliza
catches the eye of the aristocratic Freddy. It is then that Henry realizes he may have come to love her — but is it too late?
Best love song: “On the Street Where You Live”
In yet another love rectangle, things get complicated among performers right from the get-go in this Irving Berlin musical, “Holiday Inn.” Jim and Lila begin the musical planning to quit their performing trio and run a country hotel, but Lila abandons the plan — and Jim — at the last minute as she reveals she’s fallen in love with their third member, Ted. Things can’t get more complicated, right? Think again. A broken-hearted Jim later falls for Linda at his inn, but when a recently single Ted returns, he starts pursuing her as well. They say there’s plenty of fish in the sea, but it seems these two can’t help themselves when it comes to chasing the same ones.
Best love song: “White Christmas”
1. Raoul, Christine and The Phantom
In “The Phantom of the Opera,” Christine Daae has a voice that stuns, awes and seemingly makes all the men around her fall madly and deeply in love with her. The Phantom adores her from afar as he teaches her how to sing, while her childhood sweetheart Raoul swoops in to sweep her off her feet after reappearing in her life. The two jockey for her affections throughout the musical (some in more violent ways than others), and the triangle reaches a head when The Phantom makes her choose between killing Raoul and spending the rest of her life with him. Talk about a high-stakes decision!
Best love song: “All I Ask of You” — and, of course, The Phantom’s reprise!
2. Anatoly, Florence and Freddie (and Svetlana)
In “Chess,” leading lady Florence is caught between two bitter rival chess players from opposite sides of the world. She begins the show on the arm of Freddie, a hot-mouthed American, but slowly falls for the Russian Anatoly as she works to find some peace between the two in the midst of a heated chess competition. Complicating things further is Anatoly’s wife, Svetlana, making this a love rhombus.
Best love song: “I Know Him So Well”
3. Phoebe, Monty and Sibella
In “A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder” rising heir Monty Navarro is torn between the newly married vixen Sibella and his pious distant cousin Phoebe. The two couldn’t be more different if they tried, and they unknowingly vie for Monty’s affections as he systematically murders his other family members to inherit his family’s fortune. Unlike others on this list, Monty inexplicably lucks out in the end as each woman decides to be with him while being totally OK with the other one. Huh. Interesting twist.
Best love song: “I’ve Decided to Marry You”
4. Kim, Chris and Ellen
Get the tissues out. In “Miss Saigon,” soldier Chris must confront his past when he finds himself at a crossroads between his wife, Ellen, and Kim, the woman he fell in love with during his last few days stationed in Vietnam. This is one of the more tragic triangles, with Kim blinded by her faith that Chris will come looking for her and Chris’ belief that she has died. And then there’s Ellen, who you want to hate but really can’t as she, too, even wonders whether she should step aside to let Kim and Chris be together.
Best love song: “I Still Believe”
5. Elphaba, Fiyero and Glinda
In “Wicked,” everything seems to be going great for Shiz’s new “It” couple Glinda and Fiyero until, well, it isn’t. After setting free an imprisoned lion cub together, Elphaba and Fiyero share a moment where she sees him for who he is and they clasp hands. From then on, Fiyero struggles with his growing feelings for the soon-to-be Wicked Witch of the West, breaking the heart of his bride-to-be when he ultimately chooses her.
Best love song: “I’m Not That Girl”
6. Eponine, Marius and Cosette
You all knew this was coming. This list would be wholly incomplete without an appearance from the trio that puts the “miserable” in “Les Miserables.” Eponine is madly in love with her best friend, student Marius, but he falls in love nearly immediately with Cosette when she arrives in town. Eponine even goes along with helping Marius win Cosette’s heart by bringing him by her house and delivering a letter when he’s at the barricade. Eponine loves Marius until the very end, and in some versions of the show, it appears he may love her a little too.
Best love song: “On My Own” (duh)
7. Angelica, Hamilton and Eliza
[caption id="attachment_4387" align="alignnone" width="540"] Oof. Awkward.[/caption]
Angelicaaaa...Elizaaaaa...and Hamilton? This “Hamilton” love triangle might not be the most historically accurate part of the show, but from the moment the words “Me, I loved him” are sung, your heart is torn in two. Alexander never really has a choice between these two Schuyler sisters (Angelica made sure of that), but that didn’t stop her from loving him from afar as he married Eliza. Though Alexander is devoted to Eliza — well, as devoted as you can be when you’re repeatedly cheating on her with your mistress — but the flirtationship between the two is tough to ignore. We’ll forever be left wondering whether the comma after “Dearest” actually meant something.
Best love song: “Satisfied”
8. Aida, Radames and Amneris
In another horribly depressing love story, Radames is stuck in the middle of his betrothed, Princess Amneris, and Nubian slave (and secret princess) Aida. First off, if you’re loved by not one, but TWO princesses, you should call yourself pretty lucky. But I digress. To complicate things further, Aida becomes the handmaiden of Amneris, and the two develop a deep friendship. The love these three have for each other culminates as the two lovers are sentenced to death and Amneris allows them to die together in a final act of mercy.
Best love song: “A Step Too Far”
9. Effie, Curtis and Deena
In the easiest case of “He is SO not worth it,” aspiring singers Effie and Deena fall for the same man, their sleazy manager Curtis, in “Dreamgirls.” Effie falls hard for Curtis, but he sets his sights on Deena, delivering a double whammy when he makes her the star act of the Dreamettes and dumps a pregnant Effie. Luckily, the two wisen up in the end and kick Curtis to the curb as they reunite for one final concert. Bye, Felicia.
Best love song: “And I Am Telling You I’m Not Going”
10. Jerry, Lise and Henri
Miscommunications land two friends in the middle of this complicated love triangle, as painter Jerry falls in love with a mysterious woman who turns out to be be in a relationship with his friend Henri. Lise struggles with deciding between the two men, torn between her newfound love for Jerry and feeling beholden to Henri for the role he played in saving her during the occupation of France.
Best love song: “An American in Paris”
11. Josh, Elizabeth and Lucas (and Stephen)
It might not technically count if the love stories are playing out over two separate storylines, but If/Then’s Elizabeth is caught between two men who love her as her life diverges as result of a singular decision. Should she end up with her best friend, or the soldier she met on the street? Or, to even further complicate things, there’s the matter of the crush she has on her boss, Stephen. What role does fate play in all of this?
Best love song: “You Don’t Need to Love Me”
12. Freddy, Eliza and Henry
It’s a scenario seen in every teen movie ever made: As part of a bet, distinguished phonetician Henry Higgins wagers he can teach Cockney flower girl Eliza Doolittle to act like a distinguished woman. Over time, the two form a bond that is threatened when the newly distinguished Eliza
catches the eye of the aristocratic Freddy. It is then that Henry realizes he may have come to love her — but is it too late?
Best love song: “On the Street Where You Live”
13. Jim, Linda, Ted and Lila
In yet another love rectangle, things get complicated among performers right from the get-go in this Irving Berlin musical, “Holiday Inn.” Jim and Lila begin the musical planning to quit their performing trio and run a country hotel, but Lila abandons the plan — and Jim — at the last minute as she reveals she’s fallen in love with their third member, Ted. Things can’t get more complicated, right? Think again. A broken-hearted Jim later falls for Linda at his inn, but when a recently single Ted returns, he starts pursuing her as well. They say there’s plenty of fish in the sea, but it seems these two can’t help themselves when it comes to chasing the same ones.
Best love song: “White Christmas”
Who is your favorite Broadway couple? Do you think anyone on this list made the wrong decision? Let us know in the comments below...
[post_title] => 13 Of The Best Broadway Love Triangles: Which #team Are You On? [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => 13-of-the-best-broadway-love-triangles [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2016-10-04 06:07:43 [post_modified_gmt] => 2016-10-04 10:07:43 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => http://theatrenerds.com/?p=4377 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 2 [filter] => raw ) [1] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 4862 [post_author] => 712 [post_date] => 2016-10-03 10:00:57 [post_date_gmt] => 2016-10-03 14:00:57 [post_content] => It's an understated truth that becoming an actor requires a lot of money. There’s getting quality headshots (that’s right, multiple), designing a website, transporting yourself to auditions and rehearsals... the list goes on and on, and the struggle is VERY real. Of course, today one of the most expensive necessities is receiving training. We all have those friends, or maybe are those friends, who are lucky enough to be swept off into the mystical world of Yale Drama or Tisch. For the rest of us (and those merely looking to fine-tune their skills post grad) here are four inexpensive alternatives to honing your craft:1. Work-Study programs.
One of the great things about working in entertainment is that most industry professionals understand the challenges. There are various programs that offer work-study options for their students. For instance, in New York City, the Barrow Group and UCB proudly provide their applicants opportunities to exchange work hours for classes. If the school you’re interested in doesn’t seem to have a work-study setup simply ask one of the leaders. You’d be surprised to see how people will work with you if you’re willing to assist them!2. Intensives or one-time lessons.
Although not a supplement to years of training, acting intensives can be the tune-up you need. Many studios offer intensives that last for just a few weeks, or even one night, with an extremely prestigious instructor. Two major institutions to look into are the Lee Strasberg Theatre & Film Institute and Stella Adler Studio of Acting. However, there are plenty floating around the world – look it up in relation to where you live, of course!3. Scholarships.
Yes, we all know that most schools offer scholarships, but did you know that most training programs do as well? Complete thorough research to ensure you’re not missing out. If you can’t find anything online, remember you can always call up the program’s office and ask! A good place to start? Browse acting scholarships here4. Read a book or play.
I know, this one sounds ostentatiously simple. But that’s only because it is! Every training program out there is complimented by a good book. If you feel you have both the drive and the discipline, try cracking open of them and putting it into practice. There are multitudes of books from all kinds of authors and methods. Two fine places to start are Audition by Michael Shurtleff, and The Present Actor: A Practical and Spiritual Guideline to Help You Enjoy the Ride by casting goddess Marci Phillips. It’s always conducive to read plays, as well. This keeps you in great acting shape! Reading is most definitely the cheapest way to train. Unfortunately, there is no joinable “actor gym” where we can pay monthly to “workout” our craft. However, in the end it all really comes down to one thing: you are a thespian. And thespians never fully quench their thirst for learning. So, keep exploring, friends, and I promise you will feel more comfortable in your craft soon!Have another way actors can train on a budget? Leave a reply below...
[post_title] => 4 Inexpensive Ways To Train As An Actor [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => 4-inexpensive-ways-to-train-as-an-actor [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2016-10-03 10:02:18 [post_modified_gmt] => 2016-10-03 14:02:18 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => http://theatrenerds.com/?p=4862 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [2] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 3439 [post_author] => 11 [post_date] => 2016-10-02 11:29:27 [post_date_gmt] => 2016-10-02 15:29:27 [post_content] => In an age of Netflix, Hulu and Amazon Prime, it was only a matter of time before theatre made its way into the universe of streaming services. BroadwayHD premiered this year and made watching bootlegs of your favorite plays and musicals an actual legal thing. In June, they took things a step further and showcased Roundabout Theatre Company’s She Loves Me as the first online live stream of a Broadway musical. Streamed productions have come under some scrutiny, with opponents arguing that much of the “magic of theater” is tied up in the “in the moment” experience shared by audience and performers in the same physical space (after all, a TV screen will never do “Defying Gravity” justice). However, making the The Great White Way’s latest smash hits easily accessible with a click of a button might just have its perks. Here’s why:1. It might just help ‘mainstream’ theatre.
Alright, so we aren’t expecting everyone to start streaming Shakespeare. That doesn’t mean accessible theatre wouldn’t attract a new audience that would otherwise never be exposed! Instead of telling your friends about the shows you love, why not show them? (Did someone say live streaming party?!)
2. That theatre nerd in Ohio can tune in too!
We think everyone should have the equal opportunity to experience Laura Benanti singing “Vanilla Ice Cream” in PJs on the Studio 54 stage. Thanks to this trial run for Broadway online streaming, thespians from Alabama to Arizona were able to experience great live theatre.
3. It’s way more affordable.
For many, traveling to NYC is a huge investment and grabbing a pair of mezzanine tickets is even more pricey. If online streaming continues, theatergoer-wannabes can pay cheap fees to see both classic performances and the latest Tony-nominated hit.
4. You can watch, rewatch and then rewatch again.
In case you didn’t find Zachary Levi completely adorable the first time around when tuning into She Loves Me Live, you can stream the show again. Being able to watch musicals an unhealthy amount of times is every theatre-lover’s dream.
5. It’ll never replace the magic of truly seeing a Broadway show.
Your couch might be comfy, but nothing will ever beat sitting in a real theatre. For those performing arts diehards, or those curious tourists awaiting their first glimpse of Broadway magic, tickets to a show in New York will always be worth the price of admission.
Did you tune into She Loves Me Live? Tell us what you thought of Broadway’s first online live stream in the comments below!
[post_title] => 5 Reasons Why Broadway Livestreams Are A Good Thing [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => 5-reasons-why-broadway-livestreams-are-a-good-thing [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2016-10-02 11:53:32 [post_modified_gmt] => 2016-10-02 15:53:32 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => http://theatrenerds.com/?p=3439 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 3 [filter] => raw ) [3] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 4514 [post_author] => 11 [post_date] => 2016-10-01 10:59:55 [post_date_gmt] => 2016-10-01 14:59:55 [post_content] => [viralQuiz id=16] [post_title] => Quiz: Just How "Hamilton" Obsessed Are You? [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => how-hamilton-obsessed-are-you [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2017-07-11 17:59:28 [post_modified_gmt] => 2017-07-11 21:59:28 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => http://theatrenerds.com/?p=4514 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 11 [filter] => raw ) [4] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 4815 [post_author] => 11 [post_date] => 2016-09-29 12:04:22 [post_date_gmt] => 2016-09-29 16:04:22 [post_content] => With 11 Tony Awards in its back pocket and legions of fans across the world, Hamilton is nothing short of a Broadway sensation. Though America’s favorite historical rapper (Lin Manuel) is gone from the Great White Way, theatre fans (and the rest of the world) aren’t seeing the last of Alexander Hamilton. Here are eight things you need to know about Chicago’s biggest production of the season...1. It’s Hamilton’s first post-Broadway home.
With an explosively popular run in New York City at the Richard Rodgers Theatre, Hamilton is now planting roots in Chicago. The long-awaited production will debut on September 27 at the PrivateBank Theatre.
2. The newly minted cast is totally rad.
[caption id="attachment_4817" align="alignnone" width="970"] Twitter/@DavidKorins[/caption]
A star-studded cast will take over the famed roles in this historical musical. Tony Award-winner Karen Olivo, who will be taking on the role of Angelica Schuyler, previously starred in Lin-Manuel Miranda’s Broadway hit, In the Heights. Joshua Henry, Chicago’s Aaron Burr, is known for The Scottsboro Boys and just recently graced NYC with his performance in The Last Five Years concert earlier this month.
3. It has taken over Twitter using the hashtag #HamiltonCHI.
Miranda, cast members and enthusiastic fans have jumped on the #HamiltonCHI bandwagon. Click Here to see what the buzz is about.
4. Even Lin-Manuel Miranda is stoked to launch this new production.
Though America’s favorite Founding Father will now be portrayed by Miguel Cervantes (known best for American Idiot, If/Then and Giant), Miranda has frequently spoken out about his excitement for the Chicago premiere. He even graced the cover of Chicago Magazine alongside Cervantes. Surely, it’s not the last time we see the show’s creator team up with this new adaptation.
5. It's going to be there for a WHILE!
With the first 6 months of tickets selling out in hours, Broadway in Chicago has released another 6 months of tickets for this musical phenomenon. It's obvious that this is going to be in Chicago for quite some time. Ticket buyers are coming from all over, even some New Yorkers who have given up on getting a Broadway ticket are making the trek.
6. It. Looks. Amazing.
The cast has been on point with sending us teasers of this production. Seriously...if there’s anything social media is good for, it’s this. Plenty of cast and crew members have taken to Twitter and Instagram to share snippets of rehearsal in Chicago. (Way to make theatre nerds go insane!)
7. Tickets are actually affordable...ish.
Okay, so your wallet still takes a hit, but a significantly smaller hit than buying a ticket in NYC. The average ticket prices to Hamilton in Chicago are between $65-$180, with premium seating up to $500 a pop. All things considered, a relatively cheaper ticket than the big apple. We theatre nerds can now just sell our blood instead of a kidney...a small price to pay to the theatre gods.
8. There’s even a digital lottery happening (just like in NYC!)
#HamiltonCHI still too expensive? This week, Broadway in Chicago announced the opening of a #Ham4Ham lottery, which allows show-goers the chance to vie for $10 seats. Prior to select performances, 44 lucky winners will be chosen to enter “the room where it happens.” CLICK HERE to enter the digital lottery.
Hamilton in Chicago began previews on Tuesday September 27th with the official opening set for October 19th. For more info visit BroadwayInChicago
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[post_content] => From Wicked to The Colour Purple to War Horse, to the recent adaptation of Matilda, books have provided the inspiration for many a hit stage production. And it continues, with the popular Roald Dahl classic Charlie and The Chocolate Factory, coming to Broadway this March after a successful run on the West End. For years, theatre creatives have sought inspiration from the minds of the literary greats, making the written word come to life on the stage. There are, however, still many texts just asking to be brought to the stage. These gems are lining the shelves of your local library or bookstore, waiting for the next Lin-Manuel to pick them up and transform them into theatrical masterpieces.
Below are some works that I think are just waiting to make the jump from bookshelves to the stage:
1. The Outsiders
The SE Hinton classic is one of my favorite books of all time, and I often teach it to my students in conjunction with a viewing of West Side Story. The social commentary in The Outsiders is still highly relevant today and would connect with audiences of all ages. Not to mention the incredible emotional depth that Hinton lays out in each of her characters, which would be a dream for any actor.
2. The Rules of Civility
If Mad Men, The Great Gatsby and Breakfast at Tiffany’s had a baby, it would be Amos Towles’ novel set in 1930s New York. The retro-chic glamour is described in such detail that it’s transition to the stage would simply be stunning. Add an intriguing cast of characters and well-crafted plot line, and we have a winner.
3. Calvin and Hobbes
While I know this one is a comic book, that didn’t stop Clark Gesner from making You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown, which I loved. Bill Watterson’s smart humor make the content enjoyable for both children and adults. There are so many fun elements and returning motifs in the comic, such as the snowmen and Spaceman Spiff, which could be developed into a full-fledged show with the right writer to tie them all together. A few musical numbers wouldn't be a stretch either, given the well-loved comic strips of Calvin and his beloved tiger rocking out in their sunglasses.
4. Pennyroyal Academy
Whether a play or a musical, MA Larson’s fairy tale twist would be a visual smorgasbord. The costumes, the sets and the special effects for this one would be nothing short of magical. It also boasts a plucky heroine who shows that princesses don’t need rescuing; they fight as warriors alongside their princes.
5. The Help
This book deserves stage time. There is so much to be gleaned from the historical and emotional lessons of this novel. The film adaptation was incredible, and I believe a stage version would be just as compelling. Much like The Outsiders, the emotional depth of the characters and the social commentary are particularly relevant today and would resonate with modern audiences.
6. The Princess Bride
This one is cheating a little bit, as Disney has already bought the rights to it. Their website launched a few years ago, and yet the project remains silent. Rumors of adaptation have been floating around for years. The cult classic would transfer well to the stage, with its characters having stood the test of time as they continue to charm new audiences. Add a ballad between Buttercup and Wesley, a rousing revenge proclamation from Inigo Montoya, and maybe some dancing R.O.U.S’, and I think we’d have the next Tony award-winning Musical.
Have a book that you think should be on the list? Let us know in the comments below…
[post_title] => 6 Books That Are Dying To Be Made Into Stage Productions [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => 6-books-that-are-dying-to-be-made-into-stage-productions [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2016-09-27 10:30:51 [post_modified_gmt] => 2016-09-27 14:30:51 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => http://theatrenerds.com/?p=4276 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 6 [filter] => raw ) [6] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 3473 [post_author] => 395 [post_date] => 2016-09-26 10:28:40 [post_date_gmt] => 2016-09-26 14:28:40 [post_content] =>It's about pursuing it rather than waiting to see what comes along. That's partly because I found myself getting typecast, as everyone does unless they pursue roles that are very different from what they've done before. Christian BaleIf there’s one thing actors love more than the sound of thunderous applause and the warm glow of a radiating spotlight, it’s a challenge. One test of an actor’s ability lies in the range of parts they can comfortably play. Along with this challenge however, comes a fear of being typecast. There are certainly worse things than being typecast... (like not being cast at all) however, many actors want the chance to show their range and diversity.
If you’re nervous about getting stuck in a rut, here are some tips that will help you avoid getting typecast:
Know your limits
All actors want to believe that the world is their oyster when it comes to all the parts they can choose from, but unfortunately, that’s just not the case. It may sound counterintuitive, but before you can take steps to avoiding being typecast, it’s important to know your own limits both as a person and a performer. Factors you have little control over can heavily influence the parts you are able to play, whether it has to do with your physicality, vocal range or dance skills. It will do you no good to turn a blind eye to the things that make you who you are — and the things that don’t. Take the time to recognize your strengths and weaknesses, and then accept them (for now). This establishes a range of your abilities that coincides with the different types of roles you’ll be best suited to play. But that certainly doesn’t mean you can’t improve on certain skills to expand your range as an actor.Never stop learning
The best way to avoid being typecast is to constantly push your boundaries. Every show you perform in adds something new to your acting arsenal, so take the time to reflect on how you may have changed with each new influence you’re exposed to. If you’re between auditions, take the opportunity to hone your skills. If you’ve found you’ve been relegated to the ensemble because of your harmony-friendly alto voice, try to work on reaching those higher notes. Step-ball-change your way to success with a dance class. Sign up for vocal lessons to perfect that Eliza Doolittle lilt. You’re always going to be better at some things than others, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t keep doing them.Prepare thoroughly for your audition
I get it — it’s an audition. No matter how many you’ve been to and how many parts you’ve won, they’re still a nerve wracking, cold sweat-inducing and stressful experience. Because of this, you might be tempted to lean on your more familiar and comfortable acting chops for the sake of getting through without melting into a puddle of the Wicked Witch of the West — excuse me, Elphaba. The best way to overcome this impulse is to prepare, prepare, prepare. Versatility in your audition book is key. Even if you blow the roof off every time you sing Sondheim, or like to stick to dramatic monologues, you need to be willing to branch out if your old standbys don’t relate to the part you’re looking to get. This is the time to push yourself out of your comfort zone while remaining properly prepared. For instance, if you’re trying to avoid getting cast as the romantic lead again in favor of a more comedic part, choose a song that’s a little more Moonface Martin than Billy Crocker. When preparing for your audition, think about the characters you typically play and the role you’re trying to get. Recognizing the differences between the “types” you are often cast in and the character you want to play will help you find a fresh approach. How do they speak? How do they hold themselves? How would the two characters react to the same situation? Though you may have been typecasted in the past, this is your opportunity to use that experience to your advantage by highlighting where your past and future characters intersect and diverge.Take different headshots
You might think that your tried-and-true headshot has done perfectly well for you in the past, thankyouverymuch, but it can’t hurt to have a few different types of pictures for various types of roles. Of course, you want any headshot to still look naturally like you, but play around a bit with your expressions. Auditioning for a dramatic role? Try a pensive, sinister or determined look a la the Phantom of the Opera — without the mask, obviously. Auditioning for a comedy? Let out a laugh and let your goofy side shine.Get inspiration
According to actor Nick Moulton, one of the best ways to avoid being typecast is to look for inspiration outside of the theatre.. Whether it’s a trip to a museum, rock concert, classical performance, opera or a dance performance, Moulton says it’s important to find things that inspire and influence you and then allow them to pull you back into theatre...Being inspired and having a vision and being creative with your vision and making it unique to you is going to put you in a better spot ultimately. If you don’t want to be typecast, don’t be like other people. It’s not being different for the sake of being different, it’s being different for the sake of an interesting choice and being unique. Nick MoultonAs Broadway's Bryan Cranston (“All the Way”) says, “It’s up to the actor to make sure they don’t get typecast.” Even though the final casting decision doesn’t rest in your hands, the deliberate acting choices you make during your audition, the roles you choose to try out for and the materials you provide to those casting you are one of the very few things that are in your control.
Do you mind being typecast? Leave a reply below...
[post_title] => Tips On How To Avoid Being Typecast [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => tips-on-how-to-avoid-being-typecast [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2016-09-26 13:27:48 [post_modified_gmt] => 2016-09-26 17:27:48 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => http://theatrenerds.com/?p=3473 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 2 [filter] => raw ) [7] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 4357 [post_author] => 11 [post_date] => 2016-09-24 10:45:36 [post_date_gmt] => 2016-09-24 14:45:36 [post_content] =>Update: Now The Top 13
The wonderful world of Netflix never lets a theatre nerd down. With dozens of genres to scroll through and days of binge-able movies to stream, we’ve learned to rely on our favorite streaming service during those rainy nights on the couch. But netflix isn’t just for binge watching Friends, Stranger Things, and Gilmore Girls. Believe it or not there is a whole bevy of brilliant musicals stored in the caverns of Netflix too! Next time you need a touch of Broadway magic but can’t imagine getting out of your pjs - Check out these 12 musicals now streaming on Netflix:1. The Last Five Years
Broadway heartthrob Jeremy Jordan meets Hollywood A-lister Anna Kendrick in this film adaptation of Jason Robert Brown’s romantically raw musical. Scandal. Heartache. Goosebump-inducing harmonies. An ex-stripper roommate who owns a snake...it’s all here.
2. Hello, Dolly!
There’s no better way to spend your next night in than basking in the glory of Babs. Barbra Streisand flaunts some serious fashion choices and her award-winning vocal chops in this classic musical.
3. Rent
There are approximately 525,600 reasons to watch Rent. You only need one: It’s streamable on Netflix, so why not?
4. Grease
Make the best of these last summer nights by watching John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John in their prime. It’s truly one of a kind (like dip da-dip da-dip doo-wop da doo-bee doo...or whatever).
5. Grease Live
With broadcast-for-television musicals receiving plenty of mixed reviews, Grease Live seems to do it right. Instead of filming on a stage, this primetime special has a whole TV lot that they’ve transformed into the world of Rydell High. Plus, it stars a host of theatre vets.
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6. Across the Universe
Travel back to a time of peace, love and war in this unique story woven together with Beatles hits. It’s the perfect pick after a hard day’s night.
7. Daddy Long Legs
This 1950’s classic stars Fred Astaire. Can song and dance get any better?
8. Sweeney Todd
The Demon Barber of Fleet Street is already ultra creepy. Put Sondheim’s music with Director Tim Burton’s bizarre, melancholy style and you get a movie that’s worth the watch (if you like meat pies, of course).
9. Carousel
What’s the use of wonderin’ if you should or shouldn’t watch this timeless tale? It’s a Rodgers and Hammerstein musical full of tragedy, heart and beautiful ballads.
10. White Christmas
This seasonal classic gives you a warm, toasty feeling no matter the time of year.
11. Gentlemen Prefer Blondes
There’s plenty of song, dance and laughs to go around. Add this one to your list!
12. There’s No Business Like Show Business
Continue the Marilyn Monroe-athon by streaming this iconic movie. We promise you’ll stop humming “There’s No Business Like Show Business” eventually...
13. Shrek The Musical
This beloved ogre tale is now transformed into a full-fledged stage production starring Sutton Foster and Brian d'Arcy James. A rare win for those of us wanting more stage musicals on Netflix, here's your chance to see the Broadway adaptation from the comforts of your home.
Have one to add to the list? Leave a comment below...
[post_title] => Top 12 Musicals On Netflix Right Now (2016) [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => top-12-musicals-netflix-right-now-2016 [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2016-09-24 14:20:43 [post_modified_gmt] => 2016-09-24 18:20:43 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => http://theatrenerds.com/?p=4357 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 21 [filter] => raw ) [8] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 4043 [post_author] => 1 [post_date] => 2016-09-22 10:35:08 [post_date_gmt] => 2016-09-22 14:35:08 [post_content] => Guest post by Sarah Gaboury Is it your dream to get into a great drama school? We’re entering college audition season and I’m excited to share these tips to help you rock your auditions. Keep in mind, selecting your material is often the biggest hurdle for many of my students so give yourself lots of time. If you haven’t chosen your pieces, get started reading lots of plays and asking for suggestions from teachers or coaches you trust. Give yourself the time to really do the work you are capable of. You deserve it after all that hard work you've done in high school!1. Ask yourself these material selection questions:
- How are you most likely to be cast?
- What are your acting strengths?
- What playwrights do you love?
- What kind of stories are you most moved to tell?
- Most importantly, does this monologue excite me in an “I can't wait to work on it” kind of way? (If not, don't bother!)
2. Make sure:
- Your monologues are from published plays.
- Do a web search and make sure they aren't crazy overdone. (Although if you're amazing and in love with your pieces you can do anything...well, almost.)
- The pieces are active, meaning the character is really trying to get/do something.
- You have double checked the monologue requirements for the specific school.
3. Do your homework and rehearse the heck out of your pieces:
- What is the monologue about?
- Who am I according to the writer?
- What is my relationship to all people, places, objects, events and time?
- What does my character want?
- What are my obstacles? And what are my intentions to break through those obstacles?
- What are the stakes?
- Now get on your feet and work it and work it and work it...and get a coach or trusted friend to help you.
Though her work in acting classes, one-on-one and on-set, Sarah of Teen Actor’s Lab has skillfully guided thousands of tentative, timid newcomers to become confident, technical, risk-taking artists. [post_title] => 3 Steps To Rocking Your College Audition Monologues [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => 3-steps-to-rocking-your-college-audition-monologues [to_ping] => [pinged] => https://teenactorslab.com/top-three-audition-game-changers/ [post_modified] => 2016-09-22 10:44:33 [post_modified_gmt] => 2016-09-22 14:44:33 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => http://theatrenerds.com/?p=4043 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [9] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 4202 [post_author] => 639 [post_date] => 2016-09-21 10:00:35 [post_date_gmt] => 2016-09-21 14:00:35 [post_content] => Whether it’s casually wanting to get your playbill signed after a show or wanting to meet the actor of your dreams, we have all stage doored at one point or another. Some stage door more than others, and depending on the show, you never quite know what to expect. There may be just a few people calmly waiting in line with you or hundreds of people pushing through to get to the barricade.
Here are a few helpful tips on how to pass the time and be a good stage door neighbor:
Be Friendly
I once waited at a stage door for three hours and not a single actor came out. The people standing on the line with you are your friends. You are in it together for the long haul. Be friendly. Start a conversation. Some people are from out of town and have never been to the big apple before. This may also mean they have never stage doored before and might be a little nervous. Others may have the same taste in shows as you and can tell you if that new experimental show in Midtown is worth seeing. You won’t know unless you talk to them. And hey, we’re all there for the same reason, right? We love theatre.
Make Friends with Security
If you think standing at the stage door is stressful, think about security that stands there every night. There are some crazy fans out there. Think of all the tweens that have waited outside Finding Neverland. And you never know if you will get the nice security guard who jokes about dead people outside Les Mis, or the one who has seen you a few too many times outside the Richard Rogers. Just smile and act casual.
Share
On multiple occasions, I have made it to the end of the show with my phone at fifteen percent battery. Of course this would not be enough to last if I wanted a picture with the lead guy when he finally leaves the theater in forty-five minutes. Share a portable charger if you have it. People have been nice enough to me, and I have lent mine out, as well. Again, some people have traveled across the country to see a show, or a little kid might be meeting their icon for the first time. A phone battery should never be the cause of broken dreams. Furthermore, if you see someone who did not have the privilege to see the show (because tickets may have been too expensive, or it’s a limited engagement, etc), remember they do not have a playbill. If you have a notebook in your bag, offer them a piece of paper. You will probably make their night. This way, the actors have something to sign and that person has something to take home. All about working together.
Do Not Push
If you have ever stood at a crowded stage door, you know how this goes. As soon as that door opens, everyone and their mother behind you immediately moves forward. If you are not standing at the barricade, it’s ok. You will probably still get your stuff signed and get a picture. You know what is not ok? Shoving a bunch of people out of your way to get to the barricade because you were in the back. Also, kids stage door, too. Never a need to push people. If you’re nice to the people around you, chances are they will be nice to you, too. The same philosophy can go for pushing people.
Pass It On
If you are near the front of the crowd, you know what happens when an actor comes out. Everyone puts their playbill out in hopes of it getting signed. The people who are a few rows behind you, eagerly holding up their playbill, do them a favor: pass it forward. In fact, grab a few if you can. Wouldn’t you want someone to do the same?
You Get What You Get
Keep in mind, going out the stage door is not in any of the performer’s contracts. They just finished putting their all into a two or three hour performance, or two performances if it’s a matinee day. They are exhausted and probably just want to go home and sleep until tomorrow when they need to do it all again. If they come out to sign a bunch of playbills, then you’re lucky. If not, it does not make them a bad person. Be happy with any picture or signature you get because just remember, they are still people. Say thank you and a few nice words about their performance. Also, if you meet the actor of your dreams, just remember to breath.
[post_title] => Stage Door Etiquette: How To Wait Patiently
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[post_content] => Love life got you down? Get through it Theatre Nerd style with this Broadway soundtrack for the broken hearted thespian. A song for every type of romantic rejection.
1. The Misfortunate Romance
“We Do Not Belong Together” from Sunday in the Park with George https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dCxrDzj1Gig This gut-wrenching musical masterpiece about a love that isn’t, but should have been, is enough to shed a tear from anyone with a pulse. George, seems incapable of loving anything but his art and Dot laments how he is complete on his own but she needs more, therefore, she must leave him to seek out true companionship.We do not belong together/ And we should have belonged together/ What made it so right together/ Is what made it all wrong
2. The Dramatic Downfall
“Without You” from RENT https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VXaWc2K0rHE Apart, Roger and Mimi sing this duet as they reflect on what they’ve lost by losing one another. Fitting for any couple questioning their separation.Without you/ The tides change/ The boys run/ The oceans crash /The crowds roar/The days soar/ The babies cry/ Without you/ The moon glows/ The river flows/ But I die without you
3. Always a Bridesmaid, Never a Bride
“Tell me on a Sunday Please” from Song and Dance https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pDUtECQe_nY During this ballad, Emma sings about the way she’d prefer to hear the news of her inevitable breakup. She humbly requests a beautiful day in the park instead of a phone call or letter. Anyone who’s ever neared the end of a doomed relationship can relate to this hauntingly beautiful melody.Don't leave in silence with no word at all/ Don't get drunk and slam the door/ That's no way to end this/ I know how I want you to say goodbye/ Find a circus ring with a flying trapeze/ Tell me on a Sunday please
4. The Epiphany at the End
“There’s a Fine Fine Line” from Avenue Q https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wSOoIYsn6jo The lightening bolt moment of insight where you realize your relationship just wasn’t what you thought it was. In this number, Kate realizes that there’s an infinite space between something that’s real and something that isn’t.There's a fine, fine line/ between a fairy tale, and a lie/ And there's a fine, fine line/ between "you're wonderful" and "goodbye"/ I guess if someone doesn't love you back/ it isn't such a crime
5. The Satiric Split
“Send in the Clowns” from A Little Night Music https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yvZex3Qf7QQ Send in the Clowns is the perfect tune for any fool for love. A reflection on love’s losses and ironies sung by Desiree after being rejected by the man she loves, whom she herself had once rejected long before.Just when I'd stopped opening doors/ Finally knowing the one that I wanted was yours/ Making my entrance again with my usual flair/ Sure of my lines/ No one is there
6. Hope for the Hopeless
“Maybe This Time” from Cabaret https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fD1hWjffGeE Okay, not exactly a breakup song, but for those unlucky in love this song will give hope to the hopeless as Sally Bowles power ballads out about how perhaps, this time, her love affair will last and she’ll finally be a winner.Maybe this time/ I'll be lucky/ Maybe this time/ He'll stay/ Maybe this time/ For the first time/ Love won't hurry away
7. The Reconciliation
“I’d Give It All For You” from Songs For a New World https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Iy2skMYODwc A rapprochement for the couple that split and then realized they were wrong. In this duet, the lovers sing of how they chased after their dreams and told themselves it was better without the other one, but now they’d give it all up to be together again.No, I'd give it all for you / I'd give it all for you by my side once more /Oh, I'd give it all for you/ I'd give it cause the mountains I climb / Get higher and higher / I'm running from time/ And walking through fire/ And dreams just don't come true/ But now there's you
8. Unrequited Love
“On My Own” from Les Misérables https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YYtI8gsXS8c This Eponine tune tugs at the heartstrings for anyone who has ever loved unreciprocated.I love him, but every day I’m learning/ All my life, I’ve only been pretending/ Without me, his world will go on turning/ The World is full of happiness that I have never known/ I love him, I love him, I love him/ But only on my own
9. The Sexually Frustrated Single
“The B*tch of Living” from Spring Awakening https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7JCoA92y24A The perfect song for the solitary. The young men in this number lament about the struggles of sexual frustrations, puberty, crushes, and confusion. This will have you rocking around your bedroom and singing into your imaginary microphone in no time. See, each night it's like fantastic/ Toss and turning without rest'Cause my days at the piano/ With my teacher and her breasts/ And the music's like the one thing/ I can even get at all/ And those breasts, I mean God/ Please just let those apples fall
10. The Defiant
“And I’m Telling You I’m Not Going” from Dream Girls https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S0wU38NIzxo In this famed hit, Effie lets her man know she isn’t going anywhere without him. It is the anthem of the woman who stands by her man, even when he doesn’t want her there. Perfect for the person who refuses to let go.No, no, no, no way I'm livin' without you/ I'm not livin' without you/ You see, there's just no way/ There's no way.
11. The Post Mortem
“Still Hurting” from The Last Five Years https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TzGPx0W04YI A great piece for anyone struggling for closure. Cathy reflects on the relationship lost as she sings of her ex-husband’s moving on while she is still encased in emotional turmoil.Jamie is over and Jamie is gone/ Jamie's decided it's time to move on/ Jamie has new dreams he's building upon/ And I’m still hurting
Have some Broadway breakup jams to add to the list? Leave a comment below...
[post_title] => The Ultimate Broadway Breakup Playlist [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => ultimate-broadway-breakup-playlist [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2016-09-20 12:08:40 [post_modified_gmt] => 2016-09-20 16:08:40 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => http://theatrenerds.com/?p=4350 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 8 [filter] => raw ) [11] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 4263 [post_author] => 440 [post_date] => 2016-09-19 06:23:23 [post_date_gmt] => 2016-09-19 10:23:23 [post_content] => Theatre is all about telling a story. Transporting the viewer to someplace else, far away for just a few hours. While your performance is what will ultimately sell the story, your appearance is part of that package. From the moment those lights hit your face. The first time I tried to apply my own makeup for a dance performance, I ended up looking like an extra from the Michael Jackson ‘Thriller’ video. Not good for an upbeat jazz number where we all wore neon poodle skirts. Since then I have learned a lot about the art and magic of stage makeup .Here are a few tips to help you avoid my embarrassing fate and apply your stage makeup like a pro:
1. Act like a Boy Scout
Don’t forget to prepare your skin before you start. Moisturize and apply a primer to help the makeup to last longer and keep both your skin and pores happy.2. Less is not more
The adage does not apply in this situation. Packing on the foundation will ensure that when the stage lights hit you, your face does not appear shiny or melt into the curtain. Key tip: don’t forget to apply foundation to your neck as well or you will look like you are wearing a mask. Not great, unless you are playing the Phantom or Lady Gaga. Concealer is also crucial for hiding the evidence of your late night rehearsals under your eyes. Just be sure to find the right shade for your skin tone in both concealer and foundation. Search out a consultant in the store or if all else fails, dab a little of the tester bottle on your hand and see if it blends nicely.3. It’s all in the eyes
Liquid liners are the way to go to avoid the smudging you will get from a pencil. When choosing eye shadows, browns, pinks and golds tend to work best and show up well onstage. You will want to avoid a smoky eye unless it is specific to your character. When it comes to your lashes, false ones can indeed be your friend as they show up well for the audience. While they seem like a pain, all it takes is a little bit of practice to put them on. It can be tempting to buy cheap ones at dollar stores that come with cheap glue, but I assure you, this is one situation where you usually get what you pay for. Your eyes will be itching the whole show. Good lashes will stand the test of time and be easy to wear.4. Pucker up
For starters, chap stick is your friend on a regular basis. Not only do some of them taste great, having smooth lips helps to avoid lipstick clumping. Before applying lipstick, run a wet toothbrush over your lips a few times to help exfoliate. Then choose a bright color, pink or red for ladies is pretty safe. Pick a long lasting lipstick to avoid having to reapply multiple times.5. Highlighting
I know contouring and highlighting are really hot right night, but it is very easy to overdo. Stick to highlighting your t-zone and under your eyes to be safe. However, blush your cheeks to your heart’s content! You may feel you look like the clown of your childhood nightmares with those overly rosy cheeks, but from the audience, it will appear perfectly normal. Don’t forget to fill in those brows! A friend of mine once forgot, and because she was blonde and had applied foundation over top of them, when she got onstage it looked like she had lost her eyebrows in a tragic barbecuing accident. Highly embarrassing. To avoid moments like these, don’t forget that brow pencil.6. Seal the Deal
Using a setting powder, loose or pressed, will help to ensure your face stays picture perfect throughout the show. My personal preference is the light reflecting powder, helping to combat shine once again from sweat or oily skin.7. Special Features
Some shows will call for special effects makeup. Youtube and Pinterest can be a gold mine for how-to tutorials if you are panicking. After all, practice makes perfect. But here are a few tricks I have gleaned over the years.8. Scales
Mermaid? Dragon? Lizard from The Magic School Bus? Get yourself a cheap pair of fishnet stockings and cut a piece as large as the area you are making scaly. Hold the stocking over the area and use a brush to apply shimmering eye shadows in your desired colors generously. When you lift the stocking off, you will have created the appearance of scales.9. Bruises
Creating bruises are all about smudging and blending. Shadow colors like black, purple, yellow, blue and even red are great colors to layer. Remember, fresh bruises would be red, black and purple, while a healing bruise would be yellowing.10. Aging
Give yourself a few wrinkles with the help of Liquid Latex. Haven’t got any? Non-toxic school glue also works well. Apply it to the area and let it dry. Accentuate the now wrinkled area by applying makeup to it. Make sure the makeup gets in the creases.11. Open Wounds
Once again, reach for that Liquid Latex or non-toxic school glue and apply to the spots that you want to be the outside of the wound. Once dry, cover with foundation and then apply red and black shadow or makeup paint to the inside to simulate blood. Don't forget to add red or purple makeup to the outside for swelling; it will make it appear more realistic.Have some great tips of your own? Let us know in the comments below…
[post_title] => 11 Tips For Applying Your Own Stage Makeup [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => 11-tips-for-applying-your-own-stage-makeup [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2016-09-19 06:24:17 [post_modified_gmt] => 2016-09-19 10:24:17 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => http://theatrenerds.com/?p=4263 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 4 [filter] => raw ) [12] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 4103 [post_author] => 11 [post_date] => 2016-09-17 09:43:02 [post_date_gmt] => 2016-09-17 13:43:02 [post_content] => Not every musical gracing a New York City stage can become the next Hamilton, Rent, Lion King or Wicked. With smash hits often forcing other musicals to take a back seat, we think these epic shows have fallen through the cracks. If you’re digging for new show tunes to add to your iTunes docket, check out these 15 Broadway shows for musical theatre gold.1. Miss Saigon
Schönberg and Boublil are most well-known for a little musical tragedy called Les Mis. Their second show, however, chronicles a love story between an American soldier and a native from Vietnam, and is just as tragically beautiful.
2. The Wild Party
Andrew Lippa’s roarin’ twenties musical carries a powerful story and has graced the stage with a number of big-name Broadway talent. Though overshadowed by big productions opening on Broadway the same year such as Jesus Christ Superstar, The Music Man and Kiss Me, Kate (all revivals), it definitely deserved more attention than it received.
3. Sunday in the Park with George
Fans of Sondheim know that this Tony Award/Pulitzer Prize-winning masterpiece is one of the composer’s best. Unfortunately, popular Hollywood adaptations of Sondheim’s other works (i.e., Sweeney Todd or Into the Woods), Sunday in the Park seems to be overshadowed.
4. Ragtime
Nominated for Best Musical in 1998, Ragtime is believed--by many in the theatre community--to be snubbed. Weaving together a group of African Americans, European immigrants and American upper-class during the early twentieth century, this show combines spectacular music and a thought-provoking glimpse into history.
5. The Light in the Piazza
There’s no other musical quite like Piazza. It is based on the book by Elizabeth Spencer, and was written by Adam Guettel (the grandson of a little composer by the name of Richard Rodgers). This show is beloved by fans for Guettel’s unique songs. It blends classical-style music, opera and Italian as it tells a story about romantic love and the undying love of a mother.
6. Assassins
As another Sondheim ‘hidden gem,’ this musical recounts the assassination attempts of various U.S. presidents...as told by the culprit. With the structure of a revue show and music styles spanning across decades, this morbid piece is flawlessly executed (no pun intended).
7. The Drowsy Chaperone
What’s better than a musical that parodies a musical? This whimsical comedy gives audiences that ‘classic Broadway’ feel, and for that we love it. Plus, there are plenty of catchy tunes and snappy dances to go around.
8. She Loves Me
Fans of the iconic 90’s chick flick, You’ve Got Mail, are in for a treat. As the musical that inspired the Meg Ryan/Tom Hanks staple, She Loves Me is delicious in every way. Set in a time before e-mail (in this version, our protagonists are pen pals), we’re sure this show is sure to become a new favorite.
9. The Last Five Years
Breaking free from traditional Broadway style, The Last Five Years gives audiences a detailed look into modern relationships. Told from two very different perspectives, this musical is known for its innovative structure: From Cathy, the aspiring actress, we hear about the demise of the relationship; from Jamie, a successful writer, we hear about the romantic beginning.
10. The Secret Garden
This musical captures the heartfelt magic of the classic novel. It may not be a ‘mainstream’ hit, but hosts a collection of good music, good storytelling and gorgeous costumes. It also took home Best Book of a Musical back in 1991.
11. Bridges of Madison County
What do you get when you combine a Meryl Streep classic, the incomparable music of Jason Robert Brown, and modern-day Broadway stars, Kelli O’Hara and Steven Pasquale? Fabulousness. Reminiscent of both folk style and classic opera, Bridges may have been ahead of its time.
12. The Wedding Singer
This musical doesn’t exactly follow the Adam Sandler/Drew Barrymore movie, but it does keep that fun and outrageous spirit. With plenty of upbeat music and an easy-to-love storyline, this underrated musical is totally one you need in your music library.
13. On the Twentieth Century
If you like your dazzling Broadway spectacle whacky and wild, On the Twentieth Century is your cup of tea. Created to parody a classic operetta, this hilarious musical follows a train from Chicago to New York City. Obviously, chaos ensues.
14. Pajama Game
This Adler and Ross classic isn’t one you hear about often--but it’s full of fantastic dance numbers and songs you’ll be humming. This Broadway musical spawned popular numbers such as “Steam Heat” and “There Once Was A Man”.
15. Funny Girl
While this astounding musical received plenty of acclaim in its time, we still think it’s severely underrated. Barbra Streisand (QUEEN!) originates the role of Follies girl Fanny Brice, both on Broadway and in the 1968 film version. For millennials, it doesn’t ring a bell like Hello, Dolly!, but remains a staple musical for both Babs and Broadway in general.
Agree? Disagree? Have a favorite musical that’s not getting enough love? Leave a comment below...
[post_title] => The 15 Most Underrated Broadway Musicals Of All Time [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => 15-most-underrated-broadway-musicals-of-all-time [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2019-02-25 12:34:58 [post_modified_gmt] => 2019-02-25 17:34:58 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => http://theatrenerds.com/?p=4103 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 35 [filter] => raw ) [13] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 4137 [post_author] => 7 [post_date] => 2016-09-16 10:17:22 [post_date_gmt] => 2016-09-16 14:17:22 [post_content] => We here at Theatre Nerds can hardly contain our anticipation as this season’s new musicals come rolling onto the Great White Way! From Dear Evan Hansen to the revival of Falsettos, it’s sure to be a remarkable and memorable season on Broadway. While we are determined to see every show that opens within the next year, ticket prices quickly add up and before we know it, we’re out of cash. Thankfully, the Broadway community has provided many different ways to purchase discounted tickets. While many apps and websites may offer a small discount, these are the three cheapest ways to get tickets to your favorite Broadway show:1. Rush Tickets
Rush tickets began in 1996, when “Rent” brought a whole new audience to broadway. To help accommodate for the widespread popularity of the show, rush policies were made. Rush tickets are sold the day of the show when the box office opens, usually around 10am. The tickets are listed at a discount price, ranging usually between $25 and $45. However, the number of rush tickets available is limited, so hopefuls should arrive at the theater prior to the box office opening to beat the potential crowds. Most theatres allow two rush tickets to be purchased per person. However, some only allow one, so it is wise to check the shows policies online prior to going to the theatre. There are three types of rush tickets: The first are general rush, which are available to the entire public. Student rush tickets are available with a valid student ID shown at time of purchase. The third is senior discount, which is available to seniors around the ages of 62 to 65 years old.
2. Lottery Tickets
Most shows that do not have rush policies partake in a lottery. This allows theatre goers to enter their name in hopes of being picked to receive discounted tickets, usually priced the same as rush tickets. Lotteries are held the day of the performance, usually two and a half hours before the show begins. Winners are then picked two hours before the performance. In some cases, such as with shows and “Fun Home,” lotteries are held digitally. Digital lotteries, however, vary from show to show. “Fun Home” holds its digital lottery beginning at midnight each day through the TodayTix app. Lotteries are much less reliable than rush tickets. Depending on the show and day of the week, a large amount of people could potentially enter the lottery. For instance, this season’s most talked about musical, “Hamilton,” holds a lottery in which twenty or so selected winners receive $10 tickets to the show. Only $10 to see Broadway’s hottest musical? Sounds great! But thousands of people enter the lottery every single day. This makes the chances of winning extremely slim. For shows that are not so new, however, such as “Wicked,” chances of winning the lottery are significantly higher.
3. Standing Room
When a performance is entirely sold out, some shows, such as “Chicago” and “The Color Purple,” sell a limited number of standing room tickets. These tickets, in which you must stand for the show, are available on the day of the performance. Usually priced between $20 and $30, each customer is allowed to purchase two tickets by means of cash or credit.
4. TodayTix App
The TodayTix app was launched in 2013 by Tony Award-winning producer Merritt Baer and his childhood friend and fellow producer Brian M. Fenty. TodayTix is the first app to offer discounted, last minute theatre tickets. Buyers can check the app a few days in advance up until a few minutes before curtain to get great seats at discounted seats. TodayTix is available for free on both Android and Apple devices. For more information, visit www.todaytix.com.
5. TKTS Booth
Though tickets at the TKTS Booth may be a bit more expensive than methods already mentioned, it is still a great way to get discounted tickets at last minute. With three locations in New York City, the largest directly in Times Square, the booth sells unsold theatre tickets at up to 50% off. The booth also sells full price tickets to future performances as well as discounted day off tickets. For more information, visit www.tdf.org.
We are so thankful for these policies that allow us to get discounted tickets to our favorite Broadway show! For a full list of rush, lottery, and standing room only policies, GO HERE
[post_title] => Broadway On A Budget: 5 Ways To Get Discounted Tickets
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[post_content] => You’ve probably heard the speech once or twice … a day …
every day of tech …
for every show you’ve taken part of:
“Please,” (they usually say ‘please’, it makes it seem like a request instead of a command) “if the prop isn’t yours, don’t touch it”
Well, from a seasoned Properties Designer, I will let you in on a little secret: you probably could touch it, and the world wouldn’t end ...
But if you break it, well, may the theatre gods and the Stage Manager have mercy on your soul!
Props people are pretty well caricatured as over-anxious perfectionists desperately intent on protecting their wares. I’m not saying that we’re all like that, but like any good caricature, there is definitely some truth there. We can get a little edgy - but it isn’t our fault you know, it isn’t easy being a Properties Designer.
Do you even know exactly what a Props Designer’s job is? I’m only asking because I’ve worked as one for over 10 years, and it has never been made exactly clear to me. Every group, every person, seems to have a different idea of what constitutes a prop, and what all Props Designers should be in charge of.
If you believe the lists in the back of the Actor’s Edition of any script, Props are things carried on or off stage during the show. That’s the easy definition - the one most people understand - and the job would be a lot easier if this definition stuck. Another definition, a more comprehensive one, is anything that is not nailed down to the set - which, as you can imagine, really makes that list grow quite a bit.
You see, there are the hand props, but you also have costume props and set dressing. So you ask the Set Designer about who gets the furniture and dressing, and you check to see if the Costume Designer has specific wants for the hats and purses, and you coordinate with the Lighting Designer on the lantern that serves as the only light in a scene, and you work with the Sound Designer on the working 1920s microphone. So, you talk, and you negotiate, and you collaborate with the other designers and THEN you make your lists and hope beyond hope that you’ve thought of everything … But you haven’t, because all during rehearsals, you’ll be getting notes of new things that need to be gotten - and lots and lots of reminders of things that you already know.
So, now you have your ever-fluctuating list. Now what? Well, if you’re lucky, you are working on a show set in modern time, and you can just run out to the store and pick up what you need, or find it in props storage (again, if you’re lucky enough to have one). If you’re not-so-lucky, than you have to do research - a LOT of research. You’d be surprised how much obscure history you have to learn as a Props Designer. For instance, did you know that barcodes were not placed on products until 1974? And ballpoint pens were not commonplace in the home until the late 50s, early 60s? You need to know this kind of thing if you want to do Props for show.
But even this is subject to change, because it is not your job to be 100% historically accurate - unless you are directed to be so, which you never are, because like all Designers, we make a world that is at the intersection of: What Is Right, What The Director Wants, and What The Audience Will Believe … oh yeah, and What Is Possible (that last one is the most important - budget rules our artistic lives).
Getting/Making the props can either be where all the fun is, or the most stressful part. It is different for every one, for every show, every time. Me? I love it. Essentially we get paid (if you’re lucky) to shop and do crafts. Do you like flea markets, rummage sales, thrift shops, antique malls, Arts & Crafts and Hardware Stores? Let’s hope so, because you spend a large amount of your time at one place or another, searching for the things you need.
Sometimes that obtaining process is … a bit of a challenge. I can’t say that I know this for a fact, but I’m pretty sure that all good props designers are probably on some kind government watch list. Have you ever done Twelve Angry Men? Or West Side Story? How about Wait Until Dark? Or Sweeney Todd? Or Assassins? Do you think it’s easy to get weapons without arousing suspicions? Switchblades and Brass Knuckles are illegal - but props designers everywhere have to find them, or at least find realistic look-alikes. Weapons are hard, but there are more embarrassing things in a props designer’s life: Soap-on-a-Rope, nazi arm-bands and flags, severed limbs, several Red G-strings, ingredients for meth, vibrators, joints, handcuffs, pills, chains, pipes … the list goes on and on, and those are just the things I’ve had to buy - you don’t even want to know some of the things I had had to make!
But the worst? The worst is Food Props. Yes, Actors, that’s right. We have something in common. I’m fairly certain that we can all get together on this: Food Props just suck. For everyone. Trust me, Actors, I empathize with you, and trust me, it is no fun for us either: it is a drain on our budget; we have to work within everybody’s dietary restrictions; they’re a pain to keep replacing and making every day; and if they actually are good, they have a tendency to disappear.
But there is one thing to be said about Props Designers and Food Props: Jesus isn’t the only one who can turn water into wine. We can too - and we’ll even do you one better and turn it into whiskey, scotch, tequila, rum, you name it, we do it. All for you actors, all for you!
You see? We don’t hate actors. It’s true, you sometimes drive us crazy, but we don’t hate you. We need you as much as you need us. We also appreciate you. There is nothing so satisfying as an actor who takes a special interest in our props. Someone who really owns it, and uses it to their character’s advantage. It sounds silly, but other Props Designers will understand - it’s the little things in life.
Like most Designers, for us Props people, we don’t look for recognition from the average theatre audience member. I mean, what do you think someone would say if you went up to them after the performance and asked what they thought of the props? There are some exceptions, but most of the time, if the audience didn’t take notice of it, it means we didn’t do anything wrong - and we celebrate!
Still, the next time you work on a show, take note of the Props and Dressing around you. Sometimes a Designer will find a way to leave their mark somewhere - either hidden on set, or taped to the furniture, or written in the notebook. Take notice of their work, and respect it …
And please, Please, PLEASE Don’t Touch It! (Unless it’s yours!)
Guest post by Teresa McGriffHave props designer tribulations of your own? We'd love to hear them, leave a reply below...
[post_title] => "Don't Touch That!" The Trials & Tribulations Of A Props Designer [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => trials-and-tribulations-of-being-a-props-designer [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2016-09-15 09:57:16 [post_modified_gmt] => 2016-09-15 13:57:16 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => http://theatrenerds.com/?p=4190 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 8 [filter] => raw ) [15] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 4139 [post_author] => 395 [post_date] => 2016-09-14 10:24:15 [post_date_gmt] => 2016-09-14 14:24:15 [post_content] => If you’re anything like me, you likely spend more hours than you’d care to admit getting lost down a deep, dark rabbit hole of YouTube videos related to all things theater. The site makes it all too easy to click, click, click until you’ve tracked down a bootlegged version of “Hamilton” that miraculously hasn’t been taken down yet. You’ve watched so many Jeremy Jordan performances that you’ve started to convince yourself that somewhere, in a glorious alternate universe, you are meant for each other — or maybe that’s just me. As great as YouTube is at miraculously melting away minutes of your day, it’s also a fantastic way to get your name, face and voice out there as a performer. Whether you’re just starting off on down the yellow brick road of a theater-lovin’ journey or are a seasoned pro looking to get some more facetime with your fans, here are some tips for creating a high-quality YouTube cover video that will showcase your skills.Choose the Right Equipment
In an age of iPhones, PhotoBooth and selfie sticks, it can be tempting to avoid forking over a wad of hard-earned cash in favor of some of your more accessible tech. However, as much we’re led to believe in the unparalleled powers of these itty-bitty cameras, it pays here to have some professional gear. In this case, your microphone is way more important than the camera you use. Some microphones on the market are specifically meant for podcasts and plug right into your computer with a USB. Before you buy one, just make sure it’s OK for singing, since some made for only conversational speech might not be able to handle your high-G (as impressive as it is). Make sure to read customer reviews of a mic before you buy one that’s right for you. If you’re planning on making multiple YouTube videos or performing in the future, they’re absolutely worth the investment.Pick the Right Song
This can be a tough one. After all, how is it possible to choose the perfect song when you’re selecting from a songbook of millions? In this case, practice makes perfect. Pick out a playlist of some of your Broadway favorites, close your bedroom door and jam out by yourself for a while to see which ones feel just meh and which ones make you feel like a full-blown hallelujah chorus is emanating from your vocal cords. You’ll get bonus points if the song is remotely popular at the time, since more people will likely be searching for it while perusing YouTube. This is a double-edged sword, though, since you don’t want to sing that same song everyone else on the internet has decided to sing. Really, though, it’s about picking something that’s in your range, that you feel comfortable singing and that is going to translate well onscreen. If the bridge feels just a taaaaad too high or you’re finding the character in question too absurd for your comfort level, it’s best to put down the sheet music and find something that really suits you. Looking for some sheet music? MusicNotes is a great resource and has plenty of Broadway tunes.Enlist the Help of a Friend
Two is better than one, as they say, and grabbing one of your musical-loving friends could be just the thing that takes your YouTube video to the next level. It might feel a little weird to ask, “Hey, want to come over and sing ‘All I Ask of You’ fifty times in front of a camera together?” but the best of friends will be all for it. After all, performers love any opportunity they can get to perform. Even if the song you’re performing isn’t a traditional duet, you can get creative with harmonies that will give the solo showtune an imaginative spin. It will require a little more musical know-how on your end to get the tune just right, but that’s all part of the fun!Make the Song Your Own
A cover wouldn’t be a cover if you merely stared straight at the camera and imitated the exact vocal intricacies of the album recording — though if you’re an impersonator, this might be the exact gig for you. No, the key to recording a one-of-a-kind cover is letting yourself shine through with the song. This might mean adding a riff where it feels right or changing the tune slightly from the one sung by the OG cast. This is your one-person show, and if you’re brave enough to post yourself singing on YouTube, you’re brave enough to take control of the material you’ve chosen to sing. You want your interpretation to be solely your own. This may take a little more practice on your end to nail down exactly what you want to change and what you want to retain, but fans watching you online will have a great deal of respect when a note they’ve become accustomed to is suddenly changed — and it magically works.Put a Unique Spin on Your Tune
This is closely linked to the point above, but getting attention in your YouTube videos sometimes requires a little more than a fantastic voice and quality camera and sound equipment. You may have to get a little creative. What if you tackled a “Les Miserables” jam while strumming your guitar? What if you sang a song that’s predominantly performed by a member of the opposite sex? What if, rather than sitting in your room and facing your camera at your bedroom wall, you went outside and performed while walking down your street? Anything you can do that sets your video apart from the rest that exist online will only gain you more of a following. It might be tempting to sit down one night and take one video of yourself wailing through “Memory” when you’re feeling particularly warmed up, but planning things out creatively and thinking your song choice through will have the best effects. Though it can be downright terrifying to put yourself out there and press the “Upload” button on a Broadway YouTube video, using these tips will help put you in the best position possible to launch your online stardom. Who knows? One day when you’re bringing audiences to their feet on the Great White Way, someone in your shoes might be looking back at your earliest videos to see where you got your start.Looking for examples? Here's a few of our favorites....
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BmGeptEVwUo https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uJ_5qfLKA-Q https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MbFwQFL2klwHave a cover on the web? We'd love to see it, leave a link below in the comments...
[post_title] => How To Nail Your Showtune Cover On YouTube [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => how-to-nail-your-showtune-cover-on-youtube [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2016-09-14 10:24:15 [post_modified_gmt] => 2016-09-14 14:24:15 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => http://theatrenerds.com/?p=4139 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 2 [filter] => raw ) [16] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 4126 [post_author] => 190 [post_date] => 2016-09-13 09:16:59 [post_date_gmt] => 2016-09-13 13:16:59 [post_content] => [show-logos orderby='none' category='hamilton-hoodies' activeurl='new' style='boxhighlight' interface='hcarousel' tooltip='false' description='true' limit='0' filter='false' carousel='false,4000,false,false,500,10,true,false,true,1,0,1' img='240,261']1. He wrote In the Heights while he was working as a 7th grade English teacher. Aka coolest teacher ever.
2. Les Miserables was the first musical he ever saw.
3. He wrote jingles for politicians, specifically NY governor Eliot Spitzer’s 2004 campaign.
4. Benjamin Franklin was going to be a character in Hamilton, and was going to have a country-rock Decemberist-y type song. But, alas, it was cut.
5. He founded a hip-hop comedy group at Wesleyan called Freestyle Love Supreme.
[caption id="attachment_4129" align="alignnone" width="1000"] That’s our boy on the left[/caption]
6. He met his wife (Vanessa Nadal) in high school.
7. Speaking of his wife, she is a total badass.
She graduated from Fordham University School of Law, she’s a lawyer...oh! and also a scientist.
8. He was on How I Met Your Mother. And he definitely rapped on the show, delighting theatre nerds across the nation.
9. He’d be down for a Hamilton movie...when he’s 60 “Someday. Probably not for, like, 20 years”.
10. Speaking of musical to movie adaptations, Chicago is one of his favorites.
11. OH. He surprised Vanessa at their wedding by organizing a wedding party performance of (what else) “To Life” from Fiddler on the Roof.
You’re welcome: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KgZ4ZTTfKO812. This video of him dancing to Footloose as a little kid exists!
You're welcome, again. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kEdiwkQ13dk13. He has a dog named "Tobillo" from the Dominican Republic.
14. Lin was a co-composer & Lyricist for Bring It On The Musical.
15. He was the voice of "Shag Kava" in Star Wars: The Force Awakens.
Oh, and also a special featured composer.
16. The name "Lin-Manuel" was inspired by a poem about the Vietnam War, Nana Roja Para Mi Hijo Lin Manuel.
Cover Photo: Matthew Murphy
[post_title] => 16 Things You Probably Didn't Know About Lin-Manuel Miranda [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => things-you-probably-didnt-know-about-lin-manuel-miranda [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2017-01-02 01:01:38 [post_modified_gmt] => 2017-01-02 05:01:38 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => http://theatrenerds.com/?p=4126 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 4 [filter] => raw ) [17] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 3980 [post_author] => 440 [post_date] => 2016-09-12 09:26:20 [post_date_gmt] => 2016-09-12 13:26:20 [post_content] => Are there any words more anxiety inducing to a performer than “You know how to _______________, right?” Because it doesn't matter what the question is, the answer is always “Of course!” and then you spend the next week giving yourself an ulcer while trying to figure out how to do whatever it is. And maybe I am wrong, but it seems like more often than not it’s some particular style of dance that “trips” people up (both literally and figuratively). In my case, when a choreographer once asked if I could tap dance, I smiled widely and lied through my teeth. Being part of that show pushed my limits as a dancer, but I was determined to succeed. That night I went and bought a pair of second-hand tap shoes and stayed up for hours watching instructional videos on Youtube (how people learned to do anything before the internet, I’ll never know).Here is a set of tricks that help me to pick up and master choreography on a tight schedule.
1. Listen to the Song as Often as Possible
The faster you learn the song, the easier it will be. And I don’t just mean the words. When Tchaikovsky wrote his first ballet, it was a dismal failure because he didn’t consult with the choreographer to ensure the music matched the steps. Any choreographer worth their salt knows that the movement must work together with the music, so learning the song is just as important as learning the steps. Train yourself to listen beyond the words to what the instruments are doing, the backbeats you hear, the nuances and the timing. It will help you to link the steps and be in time with the music, rather than just learning the sequence of moves for the routine independently.2. Set Up a Dance Space
It is true that you can practice anywhere with open space, but some routines may involve props that are difficult to cart around. When I took on that tap number, I salvaged a piece of plywood from a friend and set it up in my garage. Not an ideal space, especially given that it was wintertime, and I needed to put on a hat and mittens to practice, but it worked. Having a designated space is also helpful for privacy and the freedom to experiment without feeling self-conscious about trying a particular move fifteen times over.3. Record the Choreographer
With their permission, of course. Always ask first, it’s just polite. Most choreographers are very open to this because it shows initiative and a desire to improve. Plus it’s simple to do because of cell phones. Once you have the video, watch it back while you practice, one move at a time. Pay attention not only to the step, but to what each part of the body is doing during that step and try to emulate it.4. Record Yourself
Do this as often as you can. It is easy to figure out what you need to work on when you can see it. Much like watching the choreographer, look at each move individually and pay attention to what each part of your body is doing. Are you leaning too far forwards? As one of my dance teachers used to ask, does your arm look like a dead chicken wing? Compare what you are doing to what the choreographer is doing. I even find it helpful to keep notes in a notebook.5. Internet How-To’s
Not every instructor is going to teach to your style of learning. So if there is a particular step or turn you don’t understand, try searching it online to see how others do it. Youtube is chalk full of instructional dance videos, and it might take hearing it explained another way for it to click.6. The 10 Minute Rule
Reviewing the choreography for ten minutes, three times a day will help secure it in your brain and your body memory. Finding a full hour or two when you have other commitments like a job, homework, family, etc., can seem like a daunting task. But you can always find ten minutes. And you don’t even have to practice it full out. It’s the repetition that is important. Much like riding a bike, the more you practice it, the easier it will be. So chunk your time and review for ten minutes in your kitchen while you brew your coffee, or while you wait for the bus.7. Say It-Do It
This might feel ridiculous the first few times you try it. As you practice each movement, say out loud what you are doing, to the rhythm that you are doing it. It doesn’t even have to be the correct terminology, feel free to say it any way that will help you to remember it. But saying it out loud will help to commit it to your memory in a secondary way. To the point that when I am no longer saying the words out loud, my mind will automatically think them and my body will follow.Have any tips that we missed? Leave a reply below…
[post_title] => How To Master Your Choreography ASAP [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => how-to-master-your-choreography-asap [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2016-09-12 09:28:04 [post_modified_gmt] => 2016-09-12 13:28:04 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => http://theatrenerds.com/?p=3980 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 2 [filter] => raw ) [18] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 4101 [post_author] => 12 [post_date] => 2016-09-10 09:49:56 [post_date_gmt] => 2016-09-10 13:49:56 [post_content] => Whether you’re dragging your feet at memorizing your lines, completing that script, or learning your choreography, the procrastination bug has bitten us all at one time or another. Let’s face it; you’re probably procrastinating right this very moment. To further justify your stalling, here’s a list of other theatre procrastinators.1. The Obsessive Compulsive
You’ve never cared about cleanliness before, but now that you’ve got that Lady Anne monologue to memorize, you’re suddenly all too concerned with that grime behind the oven knobs.
2. The Fixator (someone who fixates)
…You would be writing that sketch if it weren’t for all that noise! How many car alarms can go off in one hour? What’s with all the motorcycles is there a convention in town? I better write a letter to the city commissioner about this.
3. The Culinary Genius
Normally a bowl of cereal would suffice but instead, you decide to try that Rachel Ray Broccolini Frittata to put off writing down the choreography to that Cats number.
4. The Animal Wrangler
You don’t have a dog, yet somehow you’ve found yourself walking someone else’s little fur-baby. Or, you just spent the last hour watching cat videos instead of working on your scales.
5. The Fantasizer
Instead of working on your stage combat moves you zone out and imagine the glittering nights ahead as you practice accepting the award for Best Lead Actor in a Play at the Tony Awards. …But most of all, I want to thank my stylist.
6. The Pinterest Pioneer
…I could finish painting these set pieces, or I could try making these DIY bath bombs from Pinterest and start an Etsy page while I’m at it!
7. The Social (Media) Butterfly
Sure you could write the score to that new musical number you’ve been working on, or you could scour the internet for your favorite Broadway hits, post some selfies of you not working, and update your status about how you should be productive but this is way more satisfying at the moment.
8. The Errand Runner
Instead of lying down that voice over audition, why not run all over town to see who carries the best dog treats, then stop at Bed Bath and Beyond because you’re so close already- and you know if you walk around for an hour you’ll find something you’ll decide you can’t live without. Ohh! And then there’s the $1 aisle at Target….so much to do!
9. The Binge-a-thoner
Okay, that’s not a word. The person who binge watches an entire series on Netflix before writing that essay for Script Analysis class.
10. The Organizer
Before I can write this one-act play, I must clean my desk…office…house…life!
11. The Online Shopaholic
You’re supposed to read Glass Menagerie- but Kate Spade is having a 75% off online sale today only! Priorities people.
12. The Nap Enthusiast
I’ll work on that sonnet right after this little bitty catnap.
What's your favorite way to procrastinate as a thespian? Leave a reply below...
[post_title] => 12 Types Of Thespian Procrastinators: Which One Are You? [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => 12-types-of-thespian-procrastinators-which-one-are-you [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2016-09-10 09:49:56 [post_modified_gmt] => 2016-09-10 13:49:56 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => http://theatrenerds.com/?p=4101 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [19] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 4210 [post_author] => 1 [post_date] => 2016-09-09 14:10:44 [post_date_gmt] => 2016-09-09 18:10:44 [post_content] => We polled the Theatre Nerds Facebook group to see what their favorite Broadway Cast Recordings of ALL-TIME were. Receiving over 600 responses, we decided to count the votes and publish the the top 20. Note: We included West End productions, Original Off-Broadway recordings, & anniversary concerts.1. The Phantom Of The Opera - Canadian Cast Recording
Release Date: November 26, 2002 Votes: 92 Theatre Nerds Listen on Spotify
2. Hamilton - Original Broadway Cast
Release Date: September 25, 2015
Votes: 86 Theatre Nerds
Listen on Spotify
3. Wicked - Original Broadway Cast
Release Date: December 16, 2003
Votes: 74 Theatre Nerds
Listen on Spotify
4. The Phantom of the Opera at the Royal Albert Hall: In Celebration of 25 Years
Release Date: February 7, 2012
Votes: 68 Theatre Nerds
Listen on Spotify
5. Les Miserables - Original London Cast
Release Date: 1985
Votes: 61 Theatre Nerds
Listen on Spotify
6. The Secret Garden - Original Broadway Cast
Release Date: December 10, 1991
Votes: 57 Theatre Nerds
Listen on Spotify
7. Into The Woods - Original Broadway Cast
Release Date: January 19, 1988
Votes: 53 Theatre Nerds
Listen on Spotify
8. Matilda - Original London Cast
Release Date: October 22, 2013
Votes: 49 Theatre Nerds
Listen on Spotify
9. Rent - Original Broadway Cast
Release Date: August 27, 1996
Votes: 47 Theatre Nerds
Listen on Spotify
10. Next To Normal - Original Broadway Cast
Release Date: May 12, 2009
Votes: 42 Theatre Nerds
Listen on Spotify
11. Avenue Q - Original Broadway Cast
Release Date: October 7, 2003
Votes: 38 Theatre Nerds
Listen on Spotify
12. Spring Awakening - Original Broadway Cast
Release Date: December 12, 2006
Votes: 37 Theatre Nerds
Listen on Spotify
13. Fiddler on the Roof - Original Broadway Cast
Release Date: 1964
Votes: 33
Listen on Spotify
14. Legally Blonde - Original Broadway Cast
Release Date: July 17, 2007
Votes: 28
Listen on Spotify
15. Follies - Original Broadway Cast
Release Date: 1971
Votes: 26
Listen on Spotify
16. Les Miserables - 10th Anniversary Concert
Release Date: May 11, 2004
Votes: 23
Listen on Spotify
17. Little Shop of Horrors - Original Off-Broadway Cast
Release Date: 1982
Votes: 20
Listen on Spotify
18. Hairspray - Original Broadway Cast
Release Date: August 13, 2002
Votes: 19
Listen on Spotify
19. Newsies - Original Broadway Cast
Release Date: May 15, 2012
Votes: 17
Listen on Spotify
20. Waitress - Original Broadway Cast
Release date: July 8, 2016
Votes: 16
Listen on Spotify
Have one you think we missed from the list? Leave a reply below...
[post_title] => Theatre Nerds Top 20 Broadway Cast Recordings Of All Time [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => top-20-broadway-cast-recordings-of-all-time [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2016-09-09 14:23:40 [post_modified_gmt] => 2016-09-09 18:23:40 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => http://theatrenerds.com/?p=4210 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 13 [filter] => raw ) [20] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 4171 [post_author] => 391 [post_date] => 2016-09-08 08:33:22 [post_date_gmt] => 2016-09-08 12:33:22 [post_content] => Long before tenors dominated the contemporary musical theatre scene, rich bass voices such Jerry Orbach and Robert Goulet were widely acclaimed. Nowadays, if on some enchanted evening you need an audition song, we’ve got you covered, basses! Here are 10 overlooked audition songs for basses to consider.1. “Marry Well” from Grey Gardens.
Based on the 1975 documentary on The Beales, Grey Gardens premiered Off-Broadway in 2006 before transferring to Broadway the same year. In this number, Major Beale tells his granddaughter Edie of how much wants to preserve their family’s legacy. Range: A#2-E4. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Eo9e9fpUn-E2. “Masculinity” from La Cage aux Folles
Based on a 1973 French play, this musical opened on Broadway in 1983, and has been revived twice (2004 and 2010). In this scene, Georges, who owns La Cage aux Folles, teaches the drag queen Albin to become less flamboyant. Range: Bb2-Eb4. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SF2Pj8Q_Iig3. “A Fellow Needs a Girl” from Allegro
This musical, Roger and Hammerstein’s third stage collaboration, opened on Broadway in 1947 and was revived Off-Broadway (albeit significantly edited) in 2014. In this song, Dr. Taylor, a small town physician, hopes that his college-aged son Joe will eventually marry his girlfriend Jenny. Range: Bb2-Db4. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ejMaqsIEjLo4. “If I Sing” from Closer Than Ever
This 1989 musical revue premiered Off-Broadway in 1989, and was revived there in 2012. In this number, a musician recalls loving music through his father’s piano abilities. Range: A2-Eb4. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=01byK3XQE785. “Pilate’s Dream” from Jesus Christ Superstar
One of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s best-known shows, this musical opened on Broadway in 1971, and has been revived there three times since. The character Pontius Pilate retells a dream in which he will be entirely blamed for Jesus Christ’s crucifixion. This song is best for auditioning for similar rock musicals such as Spring Awakening. Range: A2-Bb3. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ry7M28EtADY6. “A Wonderful Day Like Today” from The Roar of the Greasepaint, The Smell of the Crowd
After a UK tour in 1964, this musical opened on Broadway in 1965. This song is sung in the beginning of the show, when the two main characters, Sir and Cocky, bask in the joys in living in the “driver’s seat” of life. Range: Bb2-Eb4. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eBo-5A4eFts7. “Paris By Night” from Victor/Victoria
Adapted from the 1982 musical of the same name, this show, featuring Julie Andrews as the title character, opened on Broadway in 1995. “Paris By Night” is sung at the start of the show, in which Toddy, a nightclub performer, boasts about Parisian nightlife. Range: Bb2-Eb4. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qqQV4tmCgPg8. “Coffee Shop Nights” from Curtains
This late Kander and Ebb show premiered in Los Angeles in 2006 before transferring to Broadway the next year. The musical whodunit is about an actress who is murdered during her opening night curtain call. In this song, Lieutenant Frank Cioffi confides in Niki, an ingénue, about him being married to his job. Range: G#2-D4. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vLvMfEX0wqI9. “I Don’t Remember You” from The Happy Time
This Kander and Ebb musical premiered in Los Angeles in 1967 before transferring to Broadway the next year. In this scene, the photographer Jacques is having issues committing to his former lover Laurie. Range: Ab2-Eb4. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bj3qpBUePLs10. “Real Life” from tick, tick…BOOM!
This Jonathan Larson musical premiered Off-Off-Broadway in 1990, was reworked after his death, and opened Off-Broadway in 2001. In this scene, the research executive Michael tries to convince his composer friend Jon that starting a family with Jon’s wife, Susan, might not be a bad idea. This song is another great choice in try-outs for rock musicals. Range: Bb2-G4. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NPqJFxCg_f4Have a song you think is missing from the list? Let us know in the comments below…
[post_title] => 10 Overlooked Audition Songs For Basses [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => 10-overlooked-audition-songs-for-basses [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2016-09-08 08:34:41 [post_modified_gmt] => 2016-09-08 12:34:41 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => http://theatrenerds.com/?p=4171 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [21] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 3992 [post_author] => 395 [post_date] => 2016-09-06 09:00:53 [post_date_gmt] => 2016-09-06 13:00:53 [post_content] => You tried to get tickets to “Hamilton.” You really did. No one in the history of the universe has ever tried harder. But after repeatedly refreshing your email waiting for that digital lottery golden ticket to pop up, you’ve come up disappointingly short. Though you could spend all day memorizing the marquee of Richard Rodgers Theatre and hoping Lin-Manuel Miranda is going to stroll by to say a quick “hello” to the current cast, you’re in the greatest city in the world, and it would be a waste not to take advantage of it. After all, history had its eyes on Hamilton long before the musical came around. If you’re a “Hamilton” fan with a few hours to kill in New York City, the following are the top five historical landmarks featured in the show that will teach you more about the storied American legend and make up for the fact that today is sadly not the day you see “Hamilton.”1. Hamilton Hall at Columbia University
I’m ‘a get a scholarship to King’s College / I prob’ly shouldn’t brag, but dag, I amaze and astonish…”
Though King’s College is now known as Columbia University, this institution is where Hamilton got his education after arriving in America. While you’re strolling around the grounds, turn up “My Shot” and “Farmer Refuted” and imagine what it was like to study here in the midst of a revolution. Outside Hamilton Hall, snap a shot or two of the statue of the ten-dollar Founding Father. Afterward, head down the street to the worshipped Hamilton Deli (otherwise known as Hamdel) for a sandwich that will guarantee that “you’ll be back.”
2. Thomas Jefferson Residence
“Two Virginians and an immigrant walk into a room, diametrically opposed foes...”
If you want to be in the room where it happens, head to the Thomas Jefferson Residence at 57 Maiden Lane. Jefferson rented out this space while he was serving as secretary of state, and it is the spot of the infamous dinner between Hamilton, Jefferson and Madison that settled the Compromise of 1790 (and none for Aaron Burr, bye!) Though the home is no longer standing, there is a plaque you can read and take pictures of that commemorates the site’s history.
3. Hamilton Grange
“Eliza, do you like it uptown? It’s quiet uptown…”
Hamilton’s love for the city of New York is a prevalent theme throughout the musical, and though he only lived in this Harlem estate for two years before his death, it’s a can’t-miss stop for any Hamilton fan. Press pause on your 100th listen to “It’s Quiet Uptown” and take a break to check out the interactive exhibit in this Federalist-style home. The National Park Service website for the Hamilton Grange does advise you to arrive 30 minutes before the time you’d like to take a tour — believe it or not, its popularity has been kicked up a notch over the past year!
4. Weehawken Dueling Grounds
“Weehawken. Dawn. Guns. Drawn.”
“You’re on.”
A tour of the best Hamilton landmarks would be incomplete without a trip across the Hudson into Jersey — everything is legal in New Jersey. Weehawken is the site of not one, but two deadly duels in the show as both Phillip and Alexander Hamilton faced off with their enemies there. Though the original site has been covered up by train tracks, you can still check out a monument while you’re there and imagine what it was like for Hamilton and Aaron Burr to let their political rivalry reach such a violent point. And, of course, you won’t be able to help humming “The Ten Duel Commandments” under your breath.
5. Trinity Church Cemetery
“She is buried in Trinity Church near you…”
Hamilton spent his entire life working tirelessly to secure his legacy in history, and Trinity Church Cemetery is the perfect place to go pay your respects. Eliza Hamilton, Angelica Schuyler and Phillip Hamilton are buried here as well. The epitaph on Hamilton’s tombstone honors him with these words:
The Patriot of incorruptible integrity. The soldier of approved valour. The statesman of consummate wisdom. Whose talents and virtues will be admired Long after this marble shall have mouldered into dust.Though nothing can replace the experience of watching “Hamilton” live, checking these landmarks off your bucket list will leave you even better prepared to fully appreciate the show the next time you’re in New York and the odds of the digital lottery tilt magically in your favor. [post_title] => Lost The Digital Lottery? Check Out These 5 ‘Hamilton’ Landmarks Instead [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => lost-the-digital-lottery-check-out-these-5-hamilton-landmarks-instead [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2016-09-06 09:18:07 [post_modified_gmt] => 2016-09-06 13:18:07 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => http://theatrenerds.com/?p=3992 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [22] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 3969 [post_author] => 11 [post_date] => 2016-09-05 08:33:08 [post_date_gmt] => 2016-09-05 12:33:08 [post_content] => These television shows aren’t short on song, dance or drama and that’s exactly why we love them! Whether it’s the plight of an aspiring actress or the hardships of writing a play, these five titles bring theatre to the small screen. (Beware! Binge-watching may ensue.)
1. Smash
While Smash may have not been a smash hit among the masses, it’s a delicious watch for anyone interested in what it takes to bring a Broadway workshop all the way to Opening Night. Starring Debra Messing, Katharine McPhee and a host of Broadway favorites (Megan Hilty, Christian Borle, Will Chase and Brian d'Arcy James to name a few), the series chronicles the creation of Bombshell, a musical based on the life of Marilyn Monroe. Smash includes a stellar soundtrack, epic choreography and the perfect amount of scandal and drama.
How To Watch? AMAZON
2. Slings & Arrows
To watch or not to watch Slings & Arrows? This is no question! Slings and Arrows traces the lives of the cast and crew of the “New Burbage Shakespeare Festival” (loosely based on the Stratford Festival). This canadian series, which ran in the late ‘90s a hidden gem for any thespian. Each of the shows three seasons focuses on one season the festival and one production in particular - “Hamlet,” “MacBeth,” and “King Lear” respectively. Following the ups and downs of a mentally unstable artist director, recently returned from a stint in an institution, and a whole host of actors, crew-members and festival managers, this show gives you characters that you have met in your own life as a theatre nerd, but are at the same time unique and original. Oh! And there’s a theatre ghost too!
(This one is Theatre Nerd’s Editor in Chief Ben Bailey’s absolutely favorite btw)
How to watch? AMAZON
3. Glee
Say what you will about Ryan Murphy’s overdramatized, far-fetched comedy---Glee brought plenty of famous theatre tunes to light during its six-season reign. Once you’ve accepted that outrageous plotlines and petty high school bickering are the norm, it’s easy to appreciate the unique renditions of “Don’t Rain On My Parade” or “Defying Gravity.” This is the perfect show to binge-watch over a bowl of ice cream or a big old glass of wine.
How to watch? AMAZON
4. Broadway or Bust
Technically, this one’s a documentary...but it’s the perfect choice for theatre nerds who love reality TV! Think of Broadway or Bust as the So You Think You Can Dance of theatre. The show takes 60 of the best performers from high schools across the nation and puts them to the test (what would reality TV be without a competition?). Aspiring actors undergo a rigorous song and dance boot-camp and give showstopping performances.
How to watch? PBS
5. Submissions Only
Actress Penny Reilly dreams of making it big in NYC, but it’s not all glitz and glam. This hilarious web series dives into the dog-eat-dog audition process and spotlights a star-studded cast. It features cameos from Chita Rivera, Audra McDonald, Lin-Manuel Miranda, Adam Pascal, Kristin Chenoweth, Kelli O’Hara, Danny Burstein and more. What theatre nerd wouldn’t want to watch this?
How to watch? submissionsonly.com
Did we miss your favorite? Leave a comment below...
[post_title] => 5 Binge-Worthy TV Shows About Theatre [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => 5-binge-worthy-tv-shows-about-theatre [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2016-09-05 16:14:05 [post_modified_gmt] => 2016-09-05 20:14:05 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => http://theatrenerds.com/?p=3969 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 2 [filter] => raw ) [23] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 4077 [post_author] => 11 [post_date] => 2016-09-03 09:12:36 [post_date_gmt] => 2016-09-03 13:12:36 [post_content] => [viralQuiz id=14] [post_title] => Quiz: Match The Shakespearean Quote To Its Play [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => match-the-shakespearean-quote-to-its-play [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2016-09-03 09:18:19 [post_modified_gmt] => 2016-09-03 13:18:19 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => http://theatrenerds.com/?p=4077 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [24] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 4066 [post_author] => 391 [post_date] => 2016-09-01 09:58:03 [post_date_gmt] => 2016-09-01 13:58:03 [post_content] =>While several Broadway performers have a range going to high heaven, lower female belters such as Angela Lansbury, Elaine Stritch, and Patti Lupone are also well-respected. However, with the current trends in musical theatre favoring high belters, altos might be short on finding audition repertoire that’s not overused. But fear not! Maybe this time, here we can hit you with a hot note!
Here are 10 overlooked audition songs for altos to consider:
1. “Teaching Third Grade” from Ruthless!
This show premiered Off-Broadway in 1992, and was revived there in 2015. In the musical, 8 year-old Tina Denmark is so determined to be a star that she would kill for it…literally. In this song, the schoolteacher Miss Thorn is comforting Tina’s mother, Judy, over Tina’s disappointment in being the understudy in the school play. Range: Eb3-B4. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=quKYinnpjco2. “Special” from Avenue Q
This musical opened Off-Broadway in 2003 before transferring to Broadway the same year. It was one of the longest running Broadway shows of the 2000s, and won three Tony Awards, including Best Musical. This seductive number introduces the character Lucy the Slut, a provocative chanteuse. This song is great for auditioning for jazzy female-centered shows such as Chicago or Cabaret. Range: F3-Db5. GET SHEET MUSIC https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LzgW_4_3q3M3. “Kiss of the Spider Woman” from Kiss of the Spider Woman
One of the later Kander and Ebb shows, this musical premiered at SUNY Purchase in 1990 before transferring to West End in 1992 and Broadway in 1993. This song is sung by Aurora, a diva whose role as the Spider Woman intimidates Molina, the man infatuated with her. This song is ideal for lower altos whose range is closer to Chita Rivera, who won a Tony for playing Aurora. Range: C#3-A4. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ykihfXylB6o4. “Flaming Agnes” from I Do! I Do!
This two-character musical starring Mary Martin and Robert Preston premiered on Broadway in 1966, and was revived Off-Broadway in 1996. The story, which takes place over 50 years, looks at the marriage of Agnes and Michael Snow. In one scene, after Michael criticizes Agnes’ expensive shopping habits, the wife contemplates being a saucy divorcee. Range: D3-Db5. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_KyXfc9LYKc5. “I’m Going Back” from Bells Are Ringing
87 This musical premiered on Broadway in 1956, and was revived there in 2001. The song “I’m Going Back,” was originally performed by Judy Holliday. It is sung at the end of the show, when Ella quits her job as a phone operator to start a new life with her lover Jeff. Range: Bb3-D5. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_xC8rOrc7Ps6. “The Cake I Had” from Grey Gardens
Based on the 1975 documentary on The Beatles, Grey Gardens premiered Off-Broadway in 2006 before transferring to Broadway the same year. Little Edie and her mother Edith live alone in the ruined estate of Grey Gardens. In this song, Edie regrets failing to succeed in New York City, whereas Edith regrets nothing and takes no blame for Edie’s shortcomings. Range: F#3-C#5. GET SHEET MUSIC https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8O4h682hwjs7. “It’s an Art” from Working.
This musical with several co-authors premiered in Chicago in 1977 before transferring to Broadway the next year. The story is based on Stud Terkel’s book Working, which interviews people from various jobs and backgrounds. This song, written by Stephen Schwartz, is sung by the proud waitress Dolores Dante. Range: A3-D5. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uWIGBiDY8VE8. “Lucky” from A Little Princess
Andrew Lippa’s adaptation of Frances Hodgson Burnett’s classic novel premiered in Los Angeles in 2004 before transferring Off-Broadway the next year. The song “Lucky,” sung by the headmistress Miss Minchin, refers to her jealousy over Sara Crew’s privileged upbringing. This song is useful in auditioning for similar antagonists. Range: G3-C5. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ed5Zv1m1kIo9. “It’s a Business” from Curtains
This late Kander and Ebb show premiered in Los Angeles in 2006 before transferring to Broadway the next year. The musical whodunit is about an actress who is murdered during her opening night curtain call. The song “It’s a Business” is sung by Carmen, a producer who reminds her estranged daughter Bambi (real name Elaine) that her main goal is to draw a profit from shows. Range: Eb3-Bb4. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dDrNaP-dZ0M10. “Kiss Her Now” from Dear World
This Jerry Herman show starring Angela Lansbury premiered on Broadway in 1969, and has never been revived there. In this song, the Countess Aurelia hopes for Julian, a young business executive, to make a move on Nina, a waitress. Range: F#3-A4. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xhCD08AKkrIHave a song you think is missing from the list? Let us know in the comments below...
[post_title] => 10 Overlooked Audition Songs For Altos [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => 10-overlooked-audition-songs-for-altos [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2018-08-26 11:27:24 [post_modified_gmt] => 2018-08-26 15:27:24 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => http://theatrenerds.com/?p=4066 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 12 [filter] => raw ) [25] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 3661 [post_author] => 395 [post_date] => 2016-08-30 09:07:39 [post_date_gmt] => 2016-08-30 13:07:39 [post_content] => Last year was infamous for bad audience behavior on Broadway, with stories going viral about people trying to plug their phones in onstage, Shia LaBeouf’s meltdown at “Cabaret” and Patti Lupone — praise her — stopping a show to snatch a cell phone from an audience member. However, bad audience behavior goes far beyond irritating cell phone use. The following are 12 of the worst types of audience members that annoy both actors and the devoted theater lovers in the audience:1. The Talker
Unfazed by all the other silent audience members or the spotlights and microphones that indicate all action is to take place onstage, The Talker can’t help but comment on every scene and offer their own sassy remark to every single joke. The Talker is often surrounded by friends who are either Talkers themselves, or spend the entire show mortified that their friend has spoken so many lines they’ve practically landed a principal role.
2. The Texter
Nothing, I repeat, NOTHING is important enough to stop The Texter from click clickity clacking their fingers to send out a few more messages to their friends. Never mind that their lit-up cell screen is a beacon bright enough to distract the cast of “Spamalot” from their quest for the Holy Grail. The Texter is also a nightmare for actors, who have to pour their heart and soul out onstage while one eye is glued to the glowing screen waving about in the orchestra.
3. The Filmer
I know, I know, without The Filmer, we wouldn’t be able to enjoy hours upon hours of hours of bootlegged show footage on YouTube. But the practice is technically illegal, and pretty annoying for anyone sitting next to The Filmer, who is quite obviously angling their iPhone toward the stage and propping it up to get a better angle.
4. The Cuddlers
Undeterred by less-than-comfortable chairs and a prohibitive armrest, The Cuddlers are on a Tony-and-Maria mission, snuggled up so close not even a Jets and Sharks war could tear them apart. But what The Cuddlers don’t realize is that together, they’re creating a Les Miserables-level barricade that’s preventing anyone behind them from comfortably seeing the stage. WE GET IT, YOU’RE IN LOVE. But maybe keep the canoodling to intermission, like the rest of us.
5. The Muncher
You know when there’s an announcement before the show where everyone is asked to unwrap their candy BEFORE the show and not during it and you wonder, “Who on earth would bring wrapped candy to this production?” Well, The Muncher did, along with a whole other slew of snacks guaranteed to satisfy their hunger and annoy everyone else. Nothing ruins a dramatic, powerful silence onstage like the crunching sound of chomped-up Pringles behind you — true story.
6. The Snuggler
Personal space, shmersonal shmace. The Snuggler may have bought a ticket for one, but that’s not going to stop them from taking over both armrests and leaning in super, suuuuuuper close you to get a better view of the action. Hey, Snuggler, make like Glinda and get back to traveling in your own personal bubble.
7. The World Cup Player
Presumably inspired by “Bend It Like Beckham: The Musical,” The World Cup Player has decided that the back of your chair is their own personal foot rest — and boy, oh boy, are they fidgety. The World Cup Player spends the show tapping your chair gleefully along to the beat, and even if their rhythm is impeccable, no, we do not get a kick out of you.
8. The Panicky Parker
The Panicky Parker may be physically in the theater, but mentally, they are down the street, in their car, imagining how horrible traffic is going to be after the show. The moment the stage goes black and the first audience member puts their hands together, The Panicky Parker has risen, grabbed their belongings and bolted across the row into the aisle, blocking everyone else’s view as the bows begin.
9. The Phlegm Monster
We’ve all been there. We really have. And we feel for you. But when The Phlegm Monster can’t help but let out a string of coughs longer than the showstopping belt by the leading lady, there’s a problem. Many Phlegm Monsters try to be considerate and wait until there’s applause to hack away, but others can’t help but interrupt the most dramatic moment of the show with a cough that echoes throughout the wings and makes everyone cringe.
10. The Roamer
“Excuse me...excuse me...pardon me, can I just—excuse me.” This mantra sounds all-too-familiar coming from The Roamer, who just can’t seem to get to the theater on time, or stay in their seat. The Roamer shows up at least 15 minutes after the overture and refuses to wait until a scene break to shuffle down a row of already seated, irritated patrons. The Roamer also inevitably has to use the bathroom mid-show and takes the longest route possible to weave their way around the legs of eye-rolling theatergoers.
11. The Snoozer
The snoozer's dead give away is a constant head bobbing up and down as they drift away into lala land. And if that wasn't enough, the violent jerk and squeal as they wake is sure to let everyone know what's going on. Perhaps even worse is the successful sleeper that starts to accent the performance with a soft snore.
12. The Unwrapper
Almost worst than the muncher, the "unwrapper" slowly twists the packaging of the hard candy as if to say "I'm trying to be quiet and respectful". In reality it's creating a kind of chalkboard-screeching torture to everyone in the immediate area. The collective audience's inner-monologue is saying "just unwrap that freaking thing already".
What was the most annoying situation you’ve ever found yourself in? Let us know in the comments!
[post_title] => 12 Worst Types Of Audience Members [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => 12-worst-types-of-audience-members [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2017-04-23 00:36:55 [post_modified_gmt] => 2017-04-23 04:36:55 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => http://theatrenerds.com/?p=3661 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 18 [filter] => raw ) [26] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 3454 [post_author] => 12 [post_date] => 2016-08-29 11:11:12 [post_date_gmt] => 2016-08-29 15:11:12 [post_content] => Whether you’re an opera singer, voice-over artist, musical theatre diva, or trying to project that Hamlet monologue to the little old lady in the back row- you’re going to need to know how to keep your voice healthy.Here are some tips and tricks to maintaining your vocal well-being.
1. The Mucus Buster
Can’t sing in that adorable ‘Little Red’ voice because of a nasty cold? The Mucus Buster from LA’s REAL, RAW, LIVE juice bar has saved the day many a time, for many an actor. Don’t live in LA? No problem, make your own homemade elixir with filtered water, the juice from a couple of lemons, a pinch of ginger, a few dashes of cayenne pepper, and a splash of agave or honey. This bad boy will break up mucus and get you back to hitting those high notes again in no time.
2. Vocal Rest
Stop talking. Seriously. Sometimes it’s all you need to get back in the swing of things. This is your career and your livelihood so don’t be afraid of looking like a diva in front of your friends. “I can’t, I’m on vocal rest,” should be your new mantra. Plus, it’s a great excuse to stay in and watch old Frasier episodes.
3. Don’t Over-Caffeinate.
Have your fix and stay hydrated too. Try to drink two glasses of water for every cup of coffee. That’s an exact science. …Okay, well, not exactly, but you get the idea.
4. Beware of Dairy.
If you have a big audition and you want to play it safe- stay away from dairy. It produces phlegm and can muddy up your chords making those crisp clean notes sound muddled.
5. Don’t get Sick.
It may seem inevitable, but when you’re paycheck is on the line do all you can to avoid illness. Stock up on Echinacea, wash your hands more often, and listen to the advice your mother used to give and don’t touch your nose, eyes, or mouth- that’s how the germs get in! But of course, beware of taking things too far.
6. Hydrate.
Obvious, yet often over-looked. Too much speaking/singing plus not enough water equals rough vocals.
7. Throat Coat.
This magical tea that has gotten many a voice-over artist through a four-hour long session of video-game attack cries. If you haven’t experienced the wonders of this little tea pouch then scoot on over to your local market and buy up the whole supply- you’ll be happy you did.
8. Steam Saunas
Tea may soothe the throat, but steam will revitalize your vocal chords. Find a wet steam sauna near you and relish the steam-beauty treatment; a makeover for your skin and your vocal chords all in one.
9. More Steam
If you don’t live near a gym or spa with a steam sauna then try these tricks: -A steamy hot shower. -Holding your face over a boiling pot with a towel over your head. (Use Caution) -Buy an at-home facial steamer like THIS ONE:
10. Hire a voice instructor
It may have been a while since you’ve brushed up on your scales with an actual voice teacher. Having a pair of outside eyes on you to make sure you’re breathing correctly and using proper posture is always beneficial.
11. Warm Up
It’s obvious to warm up before a big singing audition but sometimes we brush it off when it comes to that commercial copy- the next thing you know you’re being directed to scream like a possessed demon and you’re kicking yourself for not running through some scales first. Always warm up because you never know when your agent’s going to say, “Hey, this screaming baby copy just came in, want to give it a whirl?”
12. Breathe
Have you been holding your breath in your chest? Are you clenching in your throat? Without proper breath support, you could be straining your voice. Check that you haven’t fallen into any bad habits. Lay back and meditate and work on that breath lowering in your belly.
13. Bust Out That Alexander Technique
Get out a pile of books to prop up your head and re-visit some of your old favorite Alexander postures. This can help to realign and prevent you from holding tension in the body causing vocal strain. F.M. Alexander, a Shakespearian actor who continually lost his voice, created the technique in the 1890s. Read about F.M. Alexander’s work here: https://www.alexandertechnique.com
14. Wedge Pillow
If you suffer from Acid Reflux you might be hurting your vocal chords while you’re asleep and not even realize it. The acid comes up while you’re lying down and burns your chords. Try THIS wedge pillow to keep propped up at night- it’s cheap and pretty comfy too.
*TheatreNerds is not a doctor. This is theatre nerd advice, not to be confused with medical advice. If you’re having serious vocal health concerns, consult with your physician. ☺
Have another trick to help preserve your voice? Leave a reply below...
[post_title] => Vocal Health 101: 14 Tips & Tricks To Save Your Voice [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => vocal-health-101-14-tips-tricks-to-save-your-voice [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2016-08-29 11:11:12 [post_modified_gmt] => 2016-08-29 15:11:12 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => http://theatrenerds.com/?p=3454 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 4 [filter] => raw ) [27] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 4053 [post_author] => 639 [post_date] => 2016-08-28 11:41:02 [post_date_gmt] => 2016-08-28 15:41:02 [post_content] => Though you are sitting in the audience and not about to perform, all will not be ok until the curtain goes up and the overture begins. Whether it’s a show you’ve been waiting to see for years or a spur of the moment activity, there are anxieties that come with prepping to see a show.Here are ten things that go through your mind before the show begins:
1. Will I get there on time?
You are running late. You can’t miss a minute of the show. You need to choose: cab it or walk. You know the cab driver has no idea where the St. James Theater, but if you walk, you know you will be approached by tons of tourists and multiple terrifying Elmo’s.
2. Where is my seat?
You’ve made it to the theater with time to spare. You saved money by getting an obstructed view orchestra seat. This is the moment when you find out just how obstructed the view is.
3. Bathroom or Merch?
You only have enough time for one. Will you use the extra fifteen minutes before the show to run to the bathroom, where there is already a substantial line, or go buy some show merchandise. You know the bathroom line will be crazy during intermission, but just look at those Hamilton postcards!
4. Alcohol or no alcohol?
You’re out on the town and want to live it up a little. You walk over to the bar for a glass of wine and realize it is twenty dollars. Just as you have given up hope for humanity and begin to walk away, you see signs for a Hamiltini. You only live once, right?
5. Will this man move?
Just as you get back to your seat, you see that a lovely couple has sit down in the two seats in front of you. Too bad the guy is insanely tall and will require you to peek around him throughout the entire show.
6. Am I going to cry?
Your friend who has already seen the show told you that there is this one scene where they sobbed. Will you cry? If not, does that mean you did not get the story? You hope the strangers around you don’t judge you. Either way, you hope your mascara holds up.
7. Can I fight the urge to sing along?
Let’s be honest, you may have bought the cast album the second it came out. You don’t know every song perfectly, but you know enough harmonies and have definitely become use to snapping along during your commute. Just keep it together and remember you’re not in your car.
8. Will the show be good?
Whether it be a revival or an original, the show can be a hit or miss. What if it’s a disappointment? What if the cast album and everything you imagined in your head will be better? What if the star just can’t hit the note? But as all of these things go through your head, it is a few minutes after show time and the lights begin to dim. The pit starts to play and you excitedly sit in your seat because all of those things don’t really matter. The show is starting.
[post_title] => 8 Things That Go Through Your Head Before The Show Starts (Audience POV)
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[post_content] => Twitter: A magical place where theatre nerds can follow the every-day lives of their favorite thespians. While tons of performers have jumped on the tweeting bandwagon, these five Broadway stars are killin’ it in 140 characters: (#goals #flawless)
1. Laura Benanti
When it comes to social media, She Loves Me star Laura Benanti is just like you. As Broadway’s unofficial Queen of Twitter, her tweets are all about food (“I managed to spill chocolate all over my hotel sheets. I'm gonna leave the cleaning people a note that simply says "NOT POOP."”), being famous (“Literally every single time a clean handsome man is checking me out it’s a gay man who loved me in Gypsy”) and the finer things in life ( “I JUST SAW A MAN KICK A RAT WHAT IS HAPPENING WHAT DID THAT RAT EVER DO TO YOU SIR FOR ALL YOU KNOW HE COULD BE AN AMAZING CHEF IN PARIS.”). If you’re not following @LauraBenanti you’re just doing Twitter wrong.
2. Lin-Manuel Miranda
Fans of Hamilton (okay, so, basically everyone) have had a field day watching this musical come to fruition through the virtual eyes of Lin-Manuel Miranda. As an avid tweeter, Miranda is known for posting hilarious behind-the-scenes photos, relatable tweets about life, stories of people mistaking Hamilton for Hamlet and even writing 140-character raps. It’s safe to say this superstar will be up to more big things in the future, and we’re tuning into @Lin_Manuel for the inside scoop.
3. Neil Patrick Harris
For years, this A-lister (and Hedwig and the Angry Inch star) has been open about his love for the arts. He frequently tweets about shows he sees in NYC, ways to give back to charitable organizations and recipes he loves (husband David Burtka is a professional chef). NPH is also certainly not shy about sharing photos of his adorable kids, Harper and Gideon. For this reason alone, anyone not following @ActuallyNPH is missing out on serious cuteness overload.
4. Idina Menzel
When it comes to ‘real talk’, Idina Menzel is your girl. The Wicked fav uses her account, @idinamenzel, not only to give the 411 on projects and concerts, but to respond to her tweethearts with Twitter’s most adorable witty remarks. She’s a rockstar when it comes to replying to fans and we totally can’t get enough of that sassy sarcasm.
5. Laura Osnes
Just like every good theatre nerd, @LauraOsnes is all about fangirling. The Cinderella starlet spends her days tweeting about the latest shows on Broadway, encounters with her favorite Tony winners, cute dates with Broadway Style Guide photographer and husband, Nathan Johnson, and her many trips to her frozen yogurt haven, 16 Handles. We can’t help but love her posts about #Lylathedog and the fact that she geeks out about theatre just as must as we do!
Do you have a favorite Broadway star to follow on Twitter? Tell us in the comments below...
[post_title] => 5 Broadway Stars Who Are Crushing Twitter [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => 5-broadway-stars-who-are-crushing-twitter [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2016-08-27 09:13:05 [post_modified_gmt] => 2016-08-27 13:13:05 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => http://theatrenerds.com/?p=4026 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 2 [filter] => raw ) [29] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 3985 [post_author] => 440 [post_date] => 2016-08-25 09:20:00 [post_date_gmt] => 2016-08-25 13:20:00 [post_content] =>Rehearsal time during any show is crucial and often limited. Cast members, dancers, and crew work for hours on end to ensure a show is in top form before performance time. Like an episode “Grizzly Man,” the process can be grueling, and you have to be prepared for anything. While your script is the most crucial item to show up to every rehearsal with, a well-stocked rehearsal bag can be a major asset. Look to the wisdom of the boy scouts and always be prepared - lest you find yourself with a bad case of the “hangries” with four more hours of tap-dancing ahead of you.
Here are my top ten essentials to keep in your rehearsal bag...
1. Extra Shoes
Much like going to the gym, your shoes for the stage should be a pair separate from your street shoes to help keep the stage clean. Having an extra pair of dance shoes or trainers are perfect for situations involving blisters or broken shoes.2. Water Bottle
You’ve got to hydrate to dominate, or so I’ve been told. Not only is water essential to stop you from passing out, but it helps to keep your vocal chords in top shape by maintaining lubrication. Also, drinking water helps keep your stress levels down and improves your mental clarity for those moments when the director is barking new blocking instructions at you.3. A Variety of Snacks
Rehearsals can run long, and your focus levels can waver if you’re hungry. Keep a series of easy to eat snacks in your bag, like fruit, granola bars, almonds, that you can grab when your stomach starts to rumble.4. First Aid Supplies
Fellow cast members in shows always joke that I carry a pharmacy in my bag (what can I say, it’s the teacher in me, always prepared for anything). Having basics like Band-Aids for cuts and blisters or Advil, for head or muscle aches, are always a good start. I even carry a tensor bandage, and you would not believe the number of times that has come in handy. Having simple remedy items can help to avoid rehearsal disruption.5. Notebook and Pencil Case
Those scripts aren’t going to mark themselves. Writing down direction or choreography notes in your script is an essential part of the rehearsal process that will help you when you are practicing by yourself. A notebook and a couple of pencils and highlighters are your friends.6. Deodorant and Body Spray
Be kind to your fellow cast and crew mates. Especially during a dance rehearsal, things can get a bit sweaty. Keep yourself smelling fresh and your fellow thespians happy.7. Mini Sewing Kit
Rips and tears in clothing and shoes can happen easily during a rehearsal. Needle, thread, and extra buttons are useful for avoiding embarrassing wardrobe malfunctions, or at least help to repair them if they do happen.8. Headphones
Downtime while you are waiting for your turn on stage is the perfect opportunity to review any songs or choreography. Find a hallway or a quiet corner where you put on your headphones and mark the choreography or sing quietly to yourself. Practice makes perfect!9. Extra Layers
Cold muscles can result in injuries. Stay warm with layers for both on and off stage. Sweaters, socks, sweat pants and leg warmers are good go-to options. Having an extra change of clothes in case you get sweaty can be helpful as well.10. Wipes
Sweat and makeup are brutal for your skin. Keep your pores unclogged and your skin feeling fresh with makeup removing wipes or even baby wipes. Travel packs are the perfect size for rehearsal bags.Have something to add to the list? Leave a comment below…
[post_title] => Top 10 Essentials For Your Rehearsal Bag [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => top-10-essentials-for-your-rehearsal-bag [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2018-10-14 10:03:20 [post_modified_gmt] => 2018-10-14 14:03:20 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => http://theatrenerds.com/?p=3985 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 6 [filter] => raw ) [30] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 3961 [post_author] => 12 [post_date] => 2016-08-23 10:57:47 [post_date_gmt] => 2016-08-23 14:57:47 [post_content] =>Have any of these happened to you…?
1. Not Ready for Your Close-up
You nail that on-camera audition, get in your car and realize you had peanut butter in your teeth the whole time.
2. Caffeine Overdose
You over-caffeinated during prep and now the sides won’t stop violently shaking in your hands.
3. Stretching Your Special Skills
You sort of stretched the truth on your special skills - they wanted a juggling expert...
…Huh? Huh? Well I'm a little bit rusty...
4. Drowsy by Nature
You meant to take Dayquil but you accidentally took Nyquil and you’re a teensy bit drowsy during those 16 bars. Good news is you were finally relaxed enough to hit that high note.
5. Schmooze Snooze
You try to crack jokes with the casting director but only get a blank stare in a return.
6. Wardrobe Malfunction
You’re juggling auditions so you wind up doing that Hamlet monologue in sequined pants and a neon unitard.
7. Hola?
You arrive at your commercial audition and the sides are in Spanish. You don’t speak Spanish.
8. Creeper
You show up to the audition- a little too in character and creep everyone out.
9. Lost and Confused
You show up at the wrong theatre.
10. Eyes Glued to Your Paper
You thought you’d have time to work on your lines- but you didn’t and now you can’t unglue your eyes from the script long enough to even glance at your scene partner.
11. Costume Crazed
The breakdown said ‘Jockey.’ Everyone else is wearing capri pants with boots. You show up riding a dwarf pony in full-blown jockey gear.
12. The Absent Minded Actor
You forgot your resume and headshot.
…I can see it, it’s right there on the counter. I can describe it to you if you’d like.
What audition fails have you had? Leave a reply below...
[post_title] => 12 Audition Fails That Make You Want To Hide In The Props Closet [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => 12-audition-fails-that-make-you-want-to-hide-in-the-props-closet [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2016-08-23 11:00:38 [post_modified_gmt] => 2016-08-23 15:00:38 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => http://theatrenerds.com/?p=3961 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 4 [filter] => raw ) [31] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 3434 [post_author] => 190 [post_date] => 2016-08-22 09:32:58 [post_date_gmt] => 2016-08-22 13:32:58 [post_content] => So you’ve made the leap! After years of bedroom, community, and high school theatre, you’ve decided that you want to take your bonified love of the stage and put the proverbial “ring” on it. Aka. You want to go to college for theatre!Mazel tov!
But the big question. Where? Ah, my little chickadees, this is where the fun comes in!Check out these considerations before you start your college hunt.
Size of Program
Do you want to be 1 of 12 people in your class? Or 1 of 400? Smaller programs provide a huge amount of individual attention. You might be taking all your classes with the same 12 people...for 4 years.The deep relationships that you develop with your classmates and professors are incomparable. But this also means little or no flexibility when it comes to choice in classes. Larger programs may make it hard to stand out within your class, but also allows a huge amount of opportunities for collaborative projects and the ability to take a variety of different classes.Conservatory or University?
Do you want to live and breath theatre every day of the week and not have to take a single “traditional” academic class? A conservatory might be the way to go. This will usually be intensive theatre training all day, every day (think Julliard). If you have other interests that you’d like to explore, a college program within a larger university might suit your fancy. You’d be able to take theatre classes for, say, 3 days a week and then take liberal arts classes (sciences, creative writing...heck, even math!) the remaining 2 days. NYU and Northwestern are good examples. This would also be the way to go if you’re considering minoring in a field other than theatre. In short, conservatories pride themselves is producing top of the line performers, whereas university programs focus more on graduating students who are more well-rounded.Location
It’s beyond helpful to go to school in an area that you could see yourself living/working in after you graduate. Life brought me out to California pretty soon after I graduated from NYU, and you better believe that I was feeling (with a capital F) that lack of community and the loss of the relationships (professional and otherwise) that I had spent 4 years cultivating in New York. Having a strong network is not only a HUGE advantage professionally, but having a support group of friends and old professors to seriously lean on during that first year or two out of college will be THE BEST. That said, choose a program that resonates with you, even if it’s not in one of the top theatre cities.
It’s also important to consider In-State vs Out-of-State tuition costs. Out-of-State schools could be significantly more expensive. The exception being private universities, which charge the same (often pricey) tuition for all students. Talk with your parents and decide what works best for your family. And don’t forget about financial aid!! There are tons of scholarship resources out there in addition to FAFSA and your scholarships from your particular school. Plenty of organizations offer scholarships too!
https://college.usatoday.com/2012/01/30/the-10-best-sites-to-look-for-scholarships/
BFA or BA
Okay, so let’s say you’ve settled on a wanting to attend a university. You then have one more thing to consider: whether or not you want to pursue a Bachelor of Arts (BA) or a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA). A BA Degree requires fewer concentration (acting) classes and allows for more exploration with liberal arts classes. A common comparison is getting a BA in Theatre vs a BFA in Acting. A BA would allow you the flexibility to take classes in directing, producing, stage management, dramaturgy, etc. A BFA might have an overview of these subjects, but ultimately your primary focus would be acting. Another thing to note is that BA programs might not require an audition as part of the application process, but nearly all BFA programs will. Hopefully, these 4 factors will help you begin to narrow down your search. As with everything, this decision should be made with your head, your heart and your gut (sup Chekov). And don’t worry, because no matter where you end up, there’s one thing for certain: You’ll be surrounded by Theatre Nerds! And what could be better than that?Have a question about choosing a theatre program? Leave a reply below...
[post_title] => How To Choose The Right College Theatre Program For You [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => how-to-choose-the-right-college-theatre-program-for-you [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2016-08-22 09:33:02 [post_modified_gmt] => 2016-08-22 13:33:02 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => http://theatrenerds.com/?p=3434 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 7 [filter] => raw ) [32] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 3584 [post_author] => 11 [post_date] => 2016-08-20 10:37:13 [post_date_gmt] => 2016-08-20 14:37:13 [post_content] => Don't wait One Day More to find out if you are the ultimate Les Mis fan! Take the quiz and see who's Master of the House! [viralQuiz id=12] [post_title] => Quiz: Are You The Ultimate Les Misérables Fan? [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => quiz-are-you-the-ultimate-les-miserables-fan [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2017-07-11 18:20:50 [post_modified_gmt] => 2017-07-11 22:20:50 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => http://theatrenerds.com/?p=3584 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [33] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 3689 [post_author] => 1 [post_date] => 2016-08-19 12:27:06 [post_date_gmt] => 2016-08-19 16:27:06 [post_content] => Had you told twerpy middle-school me that today I would be able to confidently handle a table saw and wield a staple gun with ease, I’d think you were lying. I’ve always been the one on stage, but as the years have gone by, I’ve crossed over to the dark side (backstage) more than I ever thought I would, and guess what? It’s been pretty great. My first crew experience was as a light board operator at a local theater. Lighting was not something I was really interested in at the time, but when the theater advertised their light board certification class, I figured I should give it a shot because, why not? I was wowed learning about gobos, filters, and more, and I eventually even learned what all those intimidating spaceship-esque buttons on the light board did. After completing the class, I was asked to be the light board op for the theater’s upcoming show, Shakespeare’s The Taming of the Shrew. That’s where it all began. My favorite part of being a light board operator was that I got to see the show from a new, unique perspective. I don’t just mean the view-from-above-the-audience type of perspective (even though that part’s pretty cool too!) Sitting through tech week and watching the performance about a billion times, I really got to know the show. I realized I was picking up on more and more of the jokes every night, and hearing them so many times gave me a better understanding of Shakespeare’s language. The same went for more contemporary shows I light board-op’ed. I absolutely loved seeing theatre in a new light! (No pun intended…). It was also so interesting to me to see what lighting can do for a show. Now when I’m sitting in an audience, I try to really notice the effects that different types of lighting can give to a scene. Lighting design is a true art! After my first backstage experience, I was hooked! Any time the theater was doing a show that I wasn’t auditioning for, I looked for a way to get involved backstage. I got this same type of joy from working as an assistant stage manager at this theater. Stage-management takes crazy amounts of concentration, organization skills, and confidence, because once the show is in production, the stage manager is the one calling the shots. But it’s definitely all worth it, and it was especially exciting for me as an actor for a few reasons. Taking line-notes was one of my responsibilities as an assistant stage manager, and while doing this every night may seem like a mundane task, it soon became my favorite part of the job, much for the same reason I loved being a light board operator so much-- After hearing the same lines so many times, I noticed more and more nuances within the words of the script. And it was also amazing to watch some really talented actors and directors at work; to watch a show develop and grow into something truly special. Watching other actors is a great way to improve your own craft, and working backstage is the perfect way to do that. Then, when I started college and was given a work-study as part of my financial aid, I decided to step way out of my comfort zone and get a job in the theatre department’s set shop. This little wimp-- a carpenter? What? When I started I had absolutely no clue what I was doing. I really was a mess. But as weeks and months went on, I learned so much about all that goes into creating the scenery of a show. It’s a great way to challenge yourself. In set construction, I was taught how to do things I never imagined I’d be able to do, and by the end of freshman year, I was teaching newcomers to the shop how to do certain tasks and even leading teams of carpenters! I learned how to operate those scary tools, but problem-solving skills and leadership have definitely been the most important lessons I’ve gained in set construction. It’s also amazing to watch a set, slowly but surely, be transformed from mere pieces of wood into something enormous and spectacular! And it’s definitely a cool thing to go see a show and point out to your friends, “I painted that wall!” or “I built that platform!”. Working backstage is also a great way to meet people and make connections. At my college and many other college theatre programs, all Theatre majors are required to complete some backstage hours, so through working in set construction, I got to know almost every person in the theatre department! In all areas of theatre production, I’ve made so many great friends that I never would have met if our paths didn’t cross in an outlet of theatre that isn’t performing. Through working backstage in many different positions, I gained a huge amount of respect for the other side of theatre. Getting your hands dirty and working hard backstage can be a way to prove that you’re a responsible and dedicated member of the theatre community. Much like performing, the jobs backstage are certainly not easy at times, but also a ton of fun and so incredibly rewarding! My experiences as a crew member have given me a much greater appreciation for the art form that I love so much. A show is so much more than just its actors. Every individual moving part of a show is so incredibly valuable! My times backstage have been some of the most educational and rewarding parts of theatre for me, so in my opinion, it is so incredibly important for every performer to dip a toe in the backstage world.Post by TN community member Rachel Brudner
[post_title] => What I've Learned As An Actor Who Also Does Crew [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => what-ive-learned-as-an-actor-who-also-does-crew [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2016-08-19 12:27:09 [post_modified_gmt] => 2016-08-19 16:27:09 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => http://theatrenerds.com/?p=3689 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [34] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 3908 [post_author] => 457 [post_date] => 2016-08-18 22:59:39 [post_date_gmt] => 2016-08-19 02:59:39 [post_content] => I recently finished reading Shakespeare's brilliant comedy, All's Well That Ends Well. As I was reading it, I came across a number of great quotes that shouldn't go without mentioning!Love all, trust a few, do wrong to none.-Countess, I.i.66-67
Get thee a good husband, and use him as he uses thee.-Parolles, I.i.220-221
Our remedies oft in ourseles do lie.-Helena, I.i.222
Thy casement I need not open, for I look through thee.-Lafew, II.iii.228-229
Come night, end day! For with the dark, poor thief, I'll steal away.-Helena, III.ii.139-140
'Tis a hard bondage to become the wife Of a detesting lord.-Diana, III.v.73-74
Were I his lady, I would poison that vile rascal.Diana, III.v.99-100
A heaven on Earth I have won by wooing thee.Bertram, IV.ii.78
There's place and means for every man alive.Parolles, IV.iii.361
Mine eyes smell onions, I weep anon.Lafew, V.iii.365 Good job, Bard. What's your favorite quote or Shakespearean show? Any great quotes you feel like I left out? [post_title] => The Best Quotes From All's Well That Ends Well [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => the-best-quotes-from-alls-well-that-ends-well [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2016-09-02 11:15:44 [post_modified_gmt] => 2016-09-02 15:15:44 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => http://theatrenerds.com/?p=3908 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [35] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 3856 [post_author] => 391 [post_date] => 2016-08-18 09:22:52 [post_date_gmt] => 2016-08-18 13:22:52 [post_content] => For decades, Broadway’s sopranos such as Barbara Cook, Kristin Chenoweth, and Audra McDonald have mesmerized audiences with high notes and unforgettable characters. Many of today’s sopranos, however, might have trouble searching for contemporary or underused material for auditions. Some soprano songs could have one dancing all night, while other songs are so popular that you have to climb every mountain to find one that isn’t overdone. To help solve this problem, I’ve compiled a list of 10 overlooked songs that sopranos should consider for auditions.
1. “Only Love” from The Scarlet Pimpernel.
This musical by Frank Wildhorn (Jekyll and Hyde) and Nan Knighton premiered on Broadway in 1997, but went through several revisions. The song “Only Love” is performed in the second act by Marguerite Blakeney, a London aristocrat. This ballad, originally recorded by Christine Andreas, is reminiscent of the great torch songs of Andrew Lloyd Webber. Range: Bb3-F5. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uv87CgHwMtQ2. “Old Maid” from 110 in the Shade.
This 1963 Broadway musical was revived in 2007 with Audra McDonald as the lead. This song closes the first act. After upsetting the man she loves, the character Lizzie tries to come to terms with the possibility of living alone as an “old maid.” Range: B3-F5. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C0jOISNJ7ro3. “China Doll” from Marguerite.
This musical, based on the French novel La Dame aux Camelias, premiered on West End in 2008. Set in World War II-era Paris, the musical is about a 40 year-old singer, Marguerite, who falls in love with a young man caught in the middle of the French Resistance. The song “China Doll” is Marguerite’s most popular song, which she sings at her 40th birthday party. Range: B3-D5. GET SHEET MUSIC https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A_PelRZ0Ec04. “Painting Her Portrait” from Jane Eyre.
Based on the classic Charlotte Bronte novel, the musical version of Jane Eyre had a workshop production in 1995 before premiering on Broadway in 2000. In this song, Jane creates a likeness of herself and despairs to be enough for Mr. Rochester. Range: Ab3-D5. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoKHN1QFCgo5. “Will You?” from Grey Gardens.
Based on the 1975 documentary on The Beales, Grey Gardens premiered Off-Broadway in 2006 before transferring to Broadway the same year. At the end of the first act, Edith and her daughter “Little” Edie have gotten into a fight, during which “Little” Edie resolves to leave Grey Gardens for New York City. Edith sings this song for her party guests to mask her inner turmoil. Range: C4-E5. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-Sxt37rdRMk6. “The Beauty Is” from The Light in the Piazza.
Based on the novella by Elizabeth Spencer, this musical premiered in Seattle in 2003 before transferring to Broadway in 2005. This song is sung by Clara, who is in awe of the spectacles in Florence’s Uffizi Gallery. Range: B3-G5. GET SHEET MUSIC https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Iy34AFVkxWs7. “This Is All Very New to Me” from Plain and Fancy.
This musical, which premiered on Broadway in 1955, was one of the earliest pop culture depictions of Amish life. This song, which was first performed by Barbara Cook, is ideal in auditions for Golden Age shows as well as more traditional shows such as The Music Man. Range: Bb3-Ab5. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=05Be_5zsx288. “Love Makes Such Fools of Us All” from Barnum.
This Cy Coleman musical about the life of P.T. Barnum opened on Broadway in 1980. The character Jenny Lind, a Swedish opera singer, performs this song first in her native language, and then in English. Range: A3-G5. GET SHEET MUSIC https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ioFzEDWZAOI9. “No Other Love” from Me and Juliet.
This long-forgotten Rodgers and Hammerstein II musical opened on Broadway in 1953, closed after 358 performances, and has never been revived on Broadway. Although originally a duet, this number can easily be performed as a solo. Range: D4-Ab5. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yR5G08xLUm410. “What Makes Me Love Him?” from The Apple Tree.
This series of three short musicals premiered on Broadway in 1966, and was revived in 2006. The first act contains characters from The Old Testaments, particularly Adam and Eve. In this song, Eve reflects on her love for Adam before she passes away. Although the range for this song is rather low for a soprano, editors have commented that it is better meant for a soprano than a belter. Range: G#3-C#5. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lC3-zSRXjK8Think of a song that is missing from this list? Let us know in the comments below...
[post_title] => 10 Overlooked Audition Songs For Sopranos [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => overlooked-audition-songs-for-sopranos [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2018-08-26 12:03:08 [post_modified_gmt] => 2018-08-26 16:03:08 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => http://theatrenerds.com/?p=3856 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 12 [filter] => raw ) ) [post_count] => 36 [current_post] => -1 [before_loop] => 1 [in_the_loop] => [post] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 4377 [post_author] => 395 [post_date] => 2016-10-04 06:07:43 [post_date_gmt] => 2016-10-04 10:07:43 [post_content] => Love on a Broadway stage is rather predictable. Boy meets girl, they sing a song, they fall in love, they live happily ever after — or do they? Drama’s the name of the game behind the velvet curtain, and your favorite musicals wouldn’t be nearly as juicy without a good old-fashioned love triangle to pull at your heartstrings and loyalties and drive you crazy. Though few Broadway love triangles have inspired the theatre nerd equivalent of “Team Edward” and “Team Jacob” T-shirts — though let’s be honest, we’d all buy them if they did — there are a few that stand out among the rest as particularly notable.1. Raoul, Christine and The Phantom
In “The Phantom of the Opera,” Christine Daae has a voice that stuns, awes and seemingly makes all the men around her fall madly and deeply in love with her. The Phantom adores her from afar as he teaches her how to sing, while her childhood sweetheart Raoul swoops in to sweep her off her feet after reappearing in her life. The two jockey for her affections throughout the musical (some in more violent ways than others), and the triangle reaches a head when The Phantom makes her choose between killing Raoul and spending the rest of her life with him. Talk about a high-stakes decision!
Best love song: “All I Ask of You” — and, of course, The Phantom’s reprise!
2. Anatoly, Florence and Freddie (and Svetlana)
In “Chess,” leading lady Florence is caught between two bitter rival chess players from opposite sides of the world. She begins the show on the arm of Freddie, a hot-mouthed American, but slowly falls for the Russian Anatoly as she works to find some peace between the two in the midst of a heated chess competition. Complicating things further is Anatoly’s wife, Svetlana, making this a love rhombus.
Best love song: “I Know Him So Well”
3. Phoebe, Monty and Sibella
In “A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder” rising heir Monty Navarro is torn between the newly married vixen Sibella and his pious distant cousin Phoebe. The two couldn’t be more different if they tried, and they unknowingly vie for Monty’s affections as he systematically murders his other family members to inherit his family’s fortune. Unlike others on this list, Monty inexplicably lucks out in the end as each woman decides to be with him while being totally OK with the other one. Huh. Interesting twist.
Best love song: “I’ve Decided to Marry You”
4. Kim, Chris and Ellen
Get the tissues out. In “Miss Saigon,” soldier Chris must confront his past when he finds himself at a crossroads between his wife, Ellen, and Kim, the woman he fell in love with during his last few days stationed in Vietnam. This is one of the more tragic triangles, with Kim blinded by her faith that Chris will come looking for her and Chris’ belief that she has died. And then there’s Ellen, who you want to hate but really can’t as she, too, even wonders whether she should step aside to let Kim and Chris be together.
Best love song: “I Still Believe”
5. Elphaba, Fiyero and Glinda
In “Wicked,” everything seems to be going great for Shiz’s new “It” couple Glinda and Fiyero until, well, it isn’t. After setting free an imprisoned lion cub together, Elphaba and Fiyero share a moment where she sees him for who he is and they clasp hands. From then on, Fiyero struggles with his growing feelings for the soon-to-be Wicked Witch of the West, breaking the heart of his bride-to-be when he ultimately chooses her.
Best love song: “I’m Not That Girl”
6. Eponine, Marius and Cosette
You all knew this was coming. This list would be wholly incomplete without an appearance from the trio that puts the “miserable” in “Les Miserables.” Eponine is madly in love with her best friend, student Marius, but he falls in love nearly immediately with Cosette when she arrives in town. Eponine even goes along with helping Marius win Cosette’s heart by bringing him by her house and delivering a letter when he’s at the barricade. Eponine loves Marius until the very end, and in some versions of the show, it appears he may love her a little too.
Best love song: “On My Own” (duh)
7. Angelica, Hamilton and Eliza
[caption id="attachment_4387" align="alignnone" width="540"] Oof. Awkward.[/caption]
Angelicaaaa...Elizaaaaa...and Hamilton? This “Hamilton” love triangle might not be the most historically accurate part of the show, but from the moment the words “Me, I loved him” are sung, your heart is torn in two. Alexander never really has a choice between these two Schuyler sisters (Angelica made sure of that), but that didn’t stop her from loving him from afar as he married Eliza. Though Alexander is devoted to Eliza — well, as devoted as you can be when you’re repeatedly cheating on her with your mistress — but the flirtationship between the two is tough to ignore. We’ll forever be left wondering whether the comma after “Dearest” actually meant something.
Best love song: “Satisfied”
8. Aida, Radames and Amneris
In another horribly depressing love story, Radames is stuck in the middle of his betrothed, Princess Amneris, and Nubian slave (and secret princess) Aida. First off, if you’re loved by not one, but TWO princesses, you should call yourself pretty lucky. But I digress. To complicate things further, Aida becomes the handmaiden of Amneris, and the two develop a deep friendship. The love these three have for each other culminates as the two lovers are sentenced to death and Amneris allows them to die together in a final act of mercy.
Best love song: “A Step Too Far”
9. Effie, Curtis and Deena
In the easiest case of “He is SO not worth it,” aspiring singers Effie and Deena fall for the same man, their sleazy manager Curtis, in “Dreamgirls.” Effie falls hard for Curtis, but he sets his sights on Deena, delivering a double whammy when he makes her the star act of the Dreamettes and dumps a pregnant Effie. Luckily, the two wisen up in the end and kick Curtis to the curb as they reunite for one final concert. Bye, Felicia.
Best love song: “And I Am Telling You I’m Not Going”
10. Jerry, Lise and Henri
Miscommunications land two friends in the middle of this complicated love triangle, as painter Jerry falls in love with a mysterious woman who turns out to be be in a relationship with his friend Henri. Lise struggles with deciding between the two men, torn between her newfound love for Jerry and feeling beholden to Henri for the role he played in saving her during the occupation of France.
Best love song: “An American in Paris”
11. Josh, Elizabeth and Lucas (and Stephen)
It might not technically count if the love stories are playing out over two separate storylines, but If/Then’s Elizabeth is caught between two men who love her as her life diverges as result of a singular decision. Should she end up with her best friend, or the soldier she met on the street? Or, to even further complicate things, there’s the matter of the crush she has on her boss, Stephen. What role does fate play in all of this?
Best love song: “You Don’t Need to Love Me”
12. Freddy, Eliza and Henry
It’s a scenario seen in every teen movie ever made: As part of a bet, distinguished phonetician Henry Higgins wagers he can teach Cockney flower girl Eliza Doolittle to act like a distinguished woman. Over time, the two form a bond that is threatened when the newly distinguished Eliza
catches the eye of the aristocratic Freddy. It is then that Henry realizes he may have come to love her — but is it too late?
Best love song: “On the Street Where You Live”
13. Jim, Linda, Ted and Lila
In yet another love rectangle, things get complicated among performers right from the get-go in this Irving Berlin musical, “Holiday Inn.” Jim and Lila begin the musical planning to quit their performing trio and run a country hotel, but Lila abandons the plan — and Jim — at the last minute as she reveals she’s fallen in love with their third member, Ted. Things can’t get more complicated, right? Think again. A broken-hearted Jim later falls for Linda at his inn, but when a recently single Ted returns, he starts pursuing her as well. They say there’s plenty of fish in the sea, but it seems these two can’t help themselves when it comes to chasing the same ones.
Best love song: “White Christmas”
Who is your favorite Broadway couple? Do you think anyone on this list made the wrong decision? Let us know in the comments below...
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