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[post_content] => For many actors, performing in community theatre is like dipping your toe into the proverbial pool of entertainment. It has served as a launchpad for some, while existing as a safe haven for others to hone their craft. Regardless, community theatres are nurturing and magical places where performers unite simply for the love of acting. As said by renowned actor Morgan Freeman, “There’s no theatre if there’s no community theatre.” No doubt, we theatre nerds agree.
The mega-famous “Twilight” star says he “owes everything” to community theatre.
Before sinking his fangs into the hearts of teenage girls everywhere, Robert Pattinson discovered his love of acting in community theatre. Propelled by the desire to meet girls, he auditioned for a local amateur dramatic society, the Barnes Theatre Club, in Southeast London. Although he didn’t find a girlfriend there, a talent agent spotted him during a show at the theatre. As fate would have it, the agent introduced Pattinson to the then-director of “Harry Potter,” Mike Newell, who cast him as Cedric Diggory. The rest, of course, is history.
[caption id="" align="alignnone" width="789"]
Pattinson performing at the Barnes Theatre in London / Credit: Barnes Theatre Co.[/caption]
“I just decided that I should try to act,” Pattison told Mirror. “So I auditioned for ‘Guys and Dolls’ and got a little tiny part as some Cuban dancer, and then I got the lead part, and then I got my agent. I owe everything to the Barnes Theatre Club.”
Do you want to build a … banana? Prior to reaching stardom with hit films such as “Frozen,” Kristen Bell was vying for roles in community theatre. She “flipped out” and cried at her first community theatre audition for a part in “Raggedy Ann and Andy.” Bell told NY Daily News that she ended up being cast “in the complex and dual role of the banana in the first act and the tree in the second act.”
Bell continued acting in community theatre up until college, saying that the friendships she made encouraged her to pursue her passion.
Chris Evans didn’t start out as a superhero. The “Captain America” star grew up performing in community theatre, acting with his two sisters and his brother in a children’s company called the Concord Youth Theatre.
“Each of us have done at least 15 to 20 shows there,” Evans told Backstage. His family was so into the Concord Youth Theatre that when Evans was around 18, his mother took over as the artistic director there and has been ever since. Seeing his older sister, Carly, onstage inspired Evans to be an actor.
“Her play would end, and she’d get flowers and candy, and it just seemed like such a good time,” he said. “She was having a ball and hanging out with her acting friends — it just looked awesome. I was like, ‘I’ll give this a shot.’”
So, he got involved in the theatre. “I fell in love,” he said. “I started doing plays year-round. I was always onstage.”
The “30 Rock” and “Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt” star credits community theatre for fostering her love of acting. In fact, Krakowski practically grew up at the Barn Theatre in New Jersey.
“My parents were involved in community theatre in New Jersey. Instead of hiring a babysitter, they would take me with them,” Krakowski told Newsday. “So my love of acting seeped in from watching my parents and seeing them have fun. When I was very little, I was in ‘A Christmas Carol,’ and my mom was Mrs. Cratchit. I also was in ‘Gypsy,’ and my dad was Herbie. Every time there was a part for a kid, they would see if they could sneak me in.”
https://youtu.be/GdlV5V8OlAg
With her “pitch perfect” presence, Anna Kendrick is currently a go-to performer for musical theatre films. Despite hitting it big with a Broadway role in “High Society” at age 12, the Oscar nominee’s first taste of theatre was through auditioning for local shows.
“My first audition was for ‘Annie,’ when I was like five years old and auditioning for community theatre,” the Maine native told E! News. The “Into the Woods” actress didn’t get the lead that time around, but she did play one of the other orphans in the production. Kendrick remembers the experience fondly, telling NPR that singing “Hard-Knock Life” was “the best.”
In an interview with The Portland Press Herald, Kendrick recalls doing multiple community theatre shows. “I think I only did shows at Lyric Theatre and smaller places,” she said. “I had some very formative experiences.”
Now a veteran performer of Broadway stages (not to mention a Tony and Emmy winner), Kristin Chenoweth started out learning the ropes on a community theatre stage. The “Wicked” star played in musicals such as “Anything Goes” at the Theatre Tulsa during her college years. Located in Oklahoma, Theatre Tulsa is the seventh longest-running community theatre in America and strives to educate artists through training and experience.
Chenoweth isn’t the only star to come out of the Theatre Tulsa, with actress Jeanne Tripplehorn and author Sam Harris receiving their first stage experiences there as well.
Although she is now a Hollywood darling (and a Best Actress winner!), Emma Stone began performing at a small theatre in her hometown in Arizona. The Valley Youth Theatre was a haven for Stone, who has said that performing helped curb her panic attacks when she was growing up.
Before leaving for California, Stone played in 18 different shows at the nonprofit theatre, including “Winnie the Pooh,” “The Princess and the Pea,” “The Little Mermaid” and “Cinderella.”
[caption id="" align="alignnone" width="428"]
Stone as Eeyore at VYT / Credit: VYT.[/caption]
Bob Cooper, an acting coach at VYT who has known Stone since she was 11, revealed in an article with Daily Mail that she credits the local theatre for giving her the skills she needed.
“Thank you thank you thank you,” she wrote to him. “It’s all because of you.”
Whistling while onstage or backstage in a theatre has long been considered bad luck. This superstition stems from the time before mechanized sets and backdrops. Back then, all the rigging for the sets, lighting, etc., was all operated by hand using ropes. As such, the backstage crew was often filled with sailors, as they literally “knew the ropes.” Just like on a ship at the time, commands and signals were given with distinct whistles. Therefore, if an actor or someone else were to nonchalantly whistle, it could cause confusion and ruin the show.
While theatrical costumes are now often bright, flashy and full of color, two colors used to be off-limits for the superstitious actor. Wearing a green or blue costume was once thought of as very bad luck, though for very different reasons.
Shakespeare’s “Macbeth” is one of the most popular plays ever written. It’s also believed to be the most cursed — so much so that just saying the name of the play in a theatre is considered very bad luck. Most actors will only refer to it as “The Scottish Play,” “The Bard’s Play” or even “Mac B.”
Some believe that Shakespeare gave his three witch characters actual spell incarnations for lines. As retaliation, a coven of actual witches cursed the play for all eternity. This could seem silly and/or highly doubtful in the modern world, but it’s hard to deny that “Macbeth” has seen more than its fair share of unfortunate incidents.
It’s believed the first occurrence of the “curse” actually happened during the first production of the play. It’s said that the young man playing Lady Macbeth (actors in Shakespeare’s time were, by law, all men) tragically died on opening night and Shakespeare himself had to step in. There have been numerous incidents of actors getting accidentally stabbed during fight scenes. In 1934, four actors had to step into the role of Macbeth due to illness or accidents in one week. It was also the show in which dueling productions caused the great Astor Place Riot in 1849, leaving at least 25 dead and hundreds injured.
Luckily, there is a way to combat the curse! If you say the play-that-must-not-be-named in a theatre, you must run around the building three times, then spin around, curse and beg to be let back in.
If you are ever so lucky to go backstage at the legendary New Amsterdam Theater in New York, you may notice a portrait of a beautiful showgirl hanging on the wall right as you enter. Her name is Olive Thomas, and her picture is there for a very specific reason.
Olive Thomas was a Ziegfeld Girl (and, for a time, was Ziegfeld’s girl) and a silent film star in the early 20th century. Later, she married Jack Pickford, brother of silent film superstar Mary Pickford, and the two had a passionate but volatile relationship. In 1920, they were on a second honeymoon in Paris when tragedy struck. Jack was awakened by Olive screaming, having ingested mercury bichloride that had been prescribed to Pickford to treat his syphilis. She died four days later at age 26. Was it an accident? Was it a suicide? Or was it something more sinister?
However, Olive has not entirely left us. It is widely believed that Olive’s ghost haunts The New Amsterdam, the same theatre where she performed in the Ziegfeld Follies and Midnight Frolics. She can reportedly be seen carrying a small blue bottle (like the one containing the chemicals that killed her) and wearing a green, beaded dress. She even caused a security guard to call the vice president of Disney Theatricals (the owner of the theatre) at 2:30 a.m. in a panic after seeing her. She is said to appear to mainly men and is even known to be naughty and pinch a bottom or two.
The portrait of Olive hangs right by the stage door to the theatre so that the cast and crew can say goodnight to her as the leave to appease her.
Almost every actor knows that it’s bad luck to say “good luck” before a performance. But where does that phrase come from? There are actually many different theories regarding the origin of the phrase, but there’s no hard evidence to prove any of them. Some theories have origins in Ancient Greece, Elizabethan England and the Civil War era. However, it doesn’t seem that the phrase was used until the 1920s.
Some believe that it refers to bowing, which is also known as “breaking the leg” because of the bended knee. Others attribute the saying to an old German toast, “Hals und Beinbruch,” which means “neck and leg fracture.” Still, some say it has to do with the curtain legs, which are the side curtains in the wings of a stage.
Which one is the real origin? The world may never know.
There are several items you are never supposed to use onstage. Peacock feathers are considered bad luck because the pattern on the feather creates an “evil eye.” You are also never supposed to use real money or jewelry onstage. This stems from simply trying to deter theft, which was rampant when theatres were not considered the respectable places they are today.
It’s very bad luck to have a mirror on your set. However, the reason has nothing to do with spirits or omens, but rather lighting. Mirrors can reflect the lighting and disrupt the look of a show, though it sees to have worked out just fine for “A Chorus Line” and “The Phantom of the Opera.”
While the “rule of three” usually means that it’s good luck to have things in sets of three, this is not true when it comes to the theatre and candles. Having three lit candles onstage is said to be very unlucky, and the person standing next to the shortest candle will be the next one to get married — or die. While the origin is not perfectly clear, it’s widely believed that this came from the time when theatres were lit with candles and torches, not electricity. Hundreds of theatres burned down in that period, so it’s believed that the superstition stems from trying to eliminate the amount of candles onstage.
Just about every professional theatre in America has a ghostlight. It’s a long, simple pole, usually three to five feet high, with a single bulb that’s either bare or has a wire cage around it. It’s placed onstage every night after the show is finished and everyone has gone home. With everything else in the theatre turned off, the ghostlight will be the only thing still on until work begins the next day. Why?
Well, it turns out the history of the ghostlight isn’t actually super clear. However, there are many myths and legends on hand to try to explain the ritual. One believed by many scholars takes us back to before the invention of the light bulb. Back then, theatres were lit with gas-burning lights that ran on gas generators. A single light would be left, burning all night to alleviate the pressure on the gas lines, which might otherwise build up overnight and cause fires. Then, somewhere along the way, the word “gaslight” morphed into “ghostlight.”
Another theory has it that in 1919, when Actors Equity was first recognized as a union, one of its requirements was that a single light had to be left onstage so that rehearsal pianists could come and set up for rehearsals without having to wait for the house electricians to turn the lights on. Though it’s unclear whether this is true, to this day, some people still refer to the ghostlight as the “Equity Lamp.”
Another famous legend has it that a robber broke into a theatre in the middle of the night, and not knowing about orchestra pits, fell off the stage and broke his leg. He then sued the theatre for negligence — and won! So, ghostlights are there to prevent liabilities. Robber or not, many believe that the reason for the ghostlight is simply to prevent anyone from falling, breaking their neck and becoming ghosts themselves.
Still, the most prevalent reasons given for the ghostlight involve, obviously, ghosts! As all thespians know, most theatres are haunted. Depending on the theatre nerd you talk to, the light is there to either help or hinder said ghosts. Some think that the light shoos away mischievous ghosts who might mess with the sets or costumes if left to their own devices. Since most theatre ghosts were once performers, others think that the light is left on to appease the spirits and give them lighting for their ghostly nighttime theatre.
Whatever the reason, the ghostlight has become a beloved theatre tradition. Record labels, musicals, biographies and many theatre companies have adopted the name “Ghostlight.” It’s come to symbolize those that have tread the boards before us and it’s our way to honor them.
Being involved in countless shows, I’m not ashamed to admit that I have fallen prey to more than one “showmance” in my time. If you are unfamiliar with the term, it is a romance that develops between two people during a production, be it theatre, television or movies. When I was in my early teens, suffering through braces and an unfortunate choice to get bangs, I would find myself crushing on the older actors in the leading roles who barely registered my existence. A misguided part of my brain was certain this was where my romantic future lay, and I dreamt of what it would be like to be noticed by them, to be the one they fell in love with every performance. Until finally, in one production all those years ago, my wish came true.
I auditioned for the play on a complete whim after days of agonizing over whether I would go at all. It was probably the most underprepared I have ever been at an audition, but somehow the director found it all endearing and cast me in the show.
At the first rehearsal, I met my castmates, including one in particular who sought me out. He was to play opposite me as my love interest. He politely shook my hand and told me he was looking forward to working with me before he bid me goodnight. He was tall, classically handsome and charming, like he’d just fallen out of a Ralph Lauren catalogue. He affected almost every girl in the cast and crew, whether they admitted it or not.
It was hard not to notice him. He was articulate, he held doors and he woredress shirts with cashmere sweaters. This was a far cry from the typical boys we were used to, in their offensive T-shirts and hoodies. He rarely socialized with other members of the cast, and his nature was quiet until he stepped onto the stage and came alive in his role. Passionate, reckless, romantic and smart, he played his part with such ease. We all watched him in awe from backstage, and even our director was excited by scoring such a stellar male lead. As rehearsals progressed, it was not surprising that I developed a crush.
I worked hard to fulfill my role opposite him as the love interest and devoted all of my free time to rehearsal and hanging out with my friends in the cast. During rehearsal downtime, we’d often sit together in the audience, which is exactly where one of the girls I’d become close friends with confessed her feelings for my onstage love interest. My heart sank. She couldn’t possibly have known about my crush, as I’d been careful not to mention it to anyone, choosing to pine in silence. The knot in my stomach tightened when she asked for my help to win him over, given my role as his fictional other half. If I refused, I risked losing her friendship, and even messier, I would have to figure out how to explain why I couldn’t help her — open can, worms everywhere. So, I agreed to help.
Rather than try to sort out my emotions, I threw myself full-tilt into the production and being with my show family. Whispers were circulating about our chemistry, and while I denied them, it did nothing to stop the rumor mill and only spurred me on. It was not my finest moment.
However, the more time went on and I got to know my onstage love, the more I actually got to know him. In doing so, I realized something very important: I hadn’t actually known him at all, and I certainly wasn’t infatuated with him. I was attracted to the character he played. My heart longed for his perfectly written stage self in the same way I longed for Heath Ledger’s Patrick Verona from “10 Things I Hate About You.” That was who gave me butterflies in my stomach. I was swooning over the words he spoke to me night after night and the passion he had been told to emote. The real guy was nothing like the man I was pining for.
When the show came to a close and for a short time after, we tried to meet up and hang out together as a group. But the thing that had ultimately bonded us was no longer, and we couldn’t recapture the same magic. The post-show grief hit me like a ton of bricks at the time. Because the end of a production is like the end of a good relationship, it hurt because it mattered.
I came out of my grief long enough to notice a real guy I’d been neglecting in favor of my fantasy man. In spite of the complete brush-off I’d been giving him for nearly two months, he’d come to see the show. Twice. He’d known how important it was to me. As it turns out, the romance I’d wanted had been right in front of me the whole time.
I know this all sounds like the basis for another “High School Musical” movie, and in truth, said guy and I split up a year later. But my first foray into showmance territory did leave its mark on me. I took away some very important lessons that helped me see things with clearer eyes when the opportunity to date a castmate came up again:
Before I saw this musical, I did not know much about the story. The details that have been released to the public about the plot have been pretty vague. What I can tell you without giving too much away is that this story is relatable and familiar, but with a twist. Evan Hansen is someone who feels like he doesn’t matter, and when a tragedy strikes, one little lie spirals out of control and changes everything.
This musical speaks to the part of you that has ever felt lonely or just a little bit lost. Along with identifying with Evan, this show is also relatable for parents who have ever had to deal with a troubled child. This story is both beautiful and heartbreaking.
Benj Pasek and Justin Paul, whose past projects include “Smash,” “Dogfight” and a little film called “La La Land,” composed the music for this show. The story of “Dear Evan Hansen” was actually inspired by an event that took place in Pasek’s childhood. The event caused everyone to want to be a part of something, which is a consistent theme throughout the score of the musical.
From “Waving Through a Window” to “You Will Be Found,” there are definitely some new musical classics in this show. What is most impressive is the emotion that is in every song. From the funnier numbers to the uplifting pieces, every song leaves you feeling something, making the show a bit of an emotional rollercoaster that’s certainly worth riding.
Oh, and Alex Lacamoire of “In the Heights” and “Hamilton” also acted as the musical supervisor on this show.
From the subject matter to the music, this is definitely a modern musical. The set exudes everything it is to be a teen in the 21st century. Physically, it’s a pretty minimal set, but the way the show uses screens to portray all forms of social media to fuel the story is mesmerizing.
Only eight people make up the cast of this musical, which you may find difficult to believe if you’ve already listened to the OBCR. Musically, they are impressive. I’ve gushed about Platt enough, but the power this cast delivers in its vocal performance is amazing and will give you goosebumps.
Then there are the characters they play. Every actor is perfectly suited in his or her role. From Jennifer Laura Thomas and Michael Park’s representation of dysfunctional family members trying to get by to Will Roland’s effective portrayal of a bro-like teen, all of these characters are far more complex than they seem at first glance.
You definitely want to bring tissues to this one. You can try to hold it together, but it probably won’t happen. After the finale, I clapped my own tears into my face. I didn’t even realize I’d cried that much.
Parts of this show are heartbreaking. Parts of this show are hysterically funny. And that’s life. We all just want to feel that we belong, and in the end, that we’ll be found — and that is the message of “Dear Evan Hansen.”
YOUR NAME [SAG-AFTRA] Phone Number/ Email/ Website Height: Weight: (optional) Hair Color: Eye Color: Credits There’s a common misconception that the more credits listed on the page, the more professional you look. However, you almost want the opposite. Choose your best and most recent roles and allow for the blank space to shine through. White space makes it much easier to read. People are typically only going to spend a few seconds looking at your resume, so have your most impressive roles (or, where possible, the ones that relate to the role you’re submitting for) at the top. It’s tempting to keep everything in chronological order, but if the credits are within a similar time frame, it’s much better to have the notable ones listed first. Again, if you had a starring role in high school and are now almost 30, don’t keep that on your resume. Also, don’t put “background work” on your resume unless you were featured or had a line. Depending on the mediums you work in, have bold headings that separate your credits (i.e., THEATRE, TELEVISION, FILM, etc.) If you’re looking to go in for multiple types of projects, create various versions of your resume. When auditioning for theatre, have your theatre credits listed first. The same goes for movies and TV. You want to make it as easy as possible for them to cast you. Credits should always be in three separate columns. The following is the format for listing theatre credits: SHOW NAME, ROLE and THEATRE COMPANY. If there is a notable director or producer, you should definitely put that down, too. Here is an example of how credits should be formatted: BROADWAY Spring Awakening Mortiz Eugene O’Neill Theatre Television and film credits are similar, but should be stylized as follows: PROJECT TITLE, TYPE OF ROLES (not your character), and NETWORK/PRODUCTION CO. (or director/producer if notable). This goes without saying, but you never want to lie on your resume. The truth always comes out! Training/Education Although this portion of your resume is straightforward, it’s one of the most important to ace. Showing you’ve received proper training is incredibly vital. Sure, you might be the next Jennifer Lawrence, harboring heaps of raw talent, but you can’t exactly write that on your resume without sounding pompous. Simply put the name of the institution, class or workshop and instructor. And if you haven’t had an opportunity to train yet, don’t sweat it! Special Skills Time to have fun! This section of the resume is really the only spot where you can add a bit more personality. Depending on how much room there is, list any special skills that you feel set you apart and could be utilized for a future role. There are no strict guidelines for this section, except that what you write should be a skill and not a fun fact. If you put down that you can do some type of accent, that’s awesome! Just make sure you can really do it — you never know when casting will ask to hear it. It can be quirky to have little asides in this section. For example, if you can twist your entire body into a pretzel, you could playfully write, “amateur contortionist (seriously, ask me to do some moves!).”
Overall, use your best judgement while typing up your resume and don’t be afraid to ask for advice.
The most common criticism I’ve heard for “Cats” is that there is “simply no plot.” I beg to differ, since the audience learns in the beginning about the Jellicle Ball, when “Old Deuteronomy just before dawn … announces the cat who can now be reborn.” The trip to the Heavyside Layer is the core of the show, and it is the motive for all the cats to introduce themselves and display their various talents while competing to enter the layer.
Another theory I find compelling is that “Cats” can be seen as an allegory for the LGBTQ community’s hardships during the 1980s. The musical’s characters are outsiders in a human-dominated world, just as LGBTQ people are a minority in a heteronormative society. Remember, the musical premiered in the early ‘80s, when the AIDS crisis was just starting to affect the gay and trans community.
Grizabella, whom the other cats shun until she sings “Memory,” is similar to people who have HIV/AIDS and are shunned by people who aren’t educated enough about the virus. In the same way that knowledge about a condition normalizes the presence of the people it affects, the other cats finally accept Grizabella as one of their own after they understand her better. The idea of an LGBT allegory especially resonates in real life, since many LGBT actors in “Cats” (such as Timothy Scott, Reed Jones and Michael Scott Gregory) all succumbed to AIDS-related illnesses. This idea makes “Cats” a surprisingly relevant show, even today.
Another criticism I want to dispel is the so-called “mediocre” score. Like every composer, Lloyd Webber has his detractors, but his musicals are still frequently revived and popular among crowds. What Lloyd Webber’s score lacks in complexity (something his contemporary, Stephen Sondheim, indulges in), they compensate in accessibility. The frequently heard motifs throughout the show — chiefly those that are introduced in the overture — make the melodies easy to remember.
Furthermore, the music in “Cats” is more broad and contemporary than that of your typical ‘80s pop opera. Unlike “The Phantom of the Opera” or “Les Misérables,” the score in “Cats” is inspired by opera (“The Ad-Dressing of Cats”), pop (“The Jellicle Ball”), rock (“The Rum Tum Tugger”) and jazz (Mccavity”).
Moreover, I am continually fascinated by the appeal that “Cats” has to children, especially in community theatre productions of it that feature children. Being a show that is so accessible in terms of both music and production value, it’s no wonder why “Cats” has stood the test of time.
The celebrated songwriter studied piano at a young age, growing up in Pennsylvania after his parents’ divorce. As luck would have it, he became friends with the son of the infamous Oscar Hammerstein. Hammerstein mentored a young Sondheim, giving him honest feedback on his work and allowing him to work as an assistant during one of his theatre productions.
After studying music in school, Sondheim struggled to get his work out there, living with his father and working as a television writer in California. Sondheim eventually returned to New York, and a friend put him in contact with Leonard Bernstein and Jerome Robbins, who were working on a musical version of Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet.” Sondheim joined them, and their collaboration became “West Side Story.” This set Sondheim off on a series of collaborations over the years, which have led to a beautiful body of work.
BKF (Best Known For):
Ahrens did not study music in college, nor did she start with a career in theatre. Instead, she studied English and journalism at Syracuse University, and her first career was as a copywriter in advertising. Music was more of a hobby at the time, and Ahrens would write songs on her lunch break.
As luck would have it, a colleague heard her musical stylings and asked her to write a song for a children’s television show, which eventually became a regular gig. This turned into writing for musical theatre when she met Stephen Flaherty at a workshop and they began collaborating.
BKF:
The product of a musical family, Lloyd Webber began school with no aspirations for a life in music or theatre. Instead, he started studying history but eventually felt the pull of musical theatre and dropped out of college to attend the Royal College of Music.
When he was 17, he received a letter (yes, people still wrote those back then) from a young Tim Rice, who was looking for someone to collaborate with. They were commissioned to create a biblical musical, which became the smash success “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat.”
Lloyd Webber participated in a series of successful collaborations before eventually striking out on his own in the ‘80s to create two of his most successful musicals, “Cats” and “Phantom of the Opera,” both inspired by existing literary works.
BKF:
Larson grew up immersed in the arts through his schooling and went on to study acting at Adelphi University, where he began composing music for student productions. After graduation, he took on the life of a true starving artist, working as a part-time waiter with little money while living in a cramped New York City apartment with a slew of roommates. Larson wrote and composed a variety of pieces, but found little success and a lot of disappointment.
Most people would have thrown in the towel, but not Larson. He persisted, collaborating with other artists, writing music for television programming and continuing to develop his own work. This included a musical retelling of the Puccini opera, “La Bohème,” based on Larson’s experience living as a poor artist in New York City. It would go on to become the award-winning musical “Rent.” Sadly, Larson died before the show’s premiere.
BKF:
With her parents both in the medical profession, it’s natural that Tesori entered a pre-med program when she started college. But after working at a theatre camp, Tesori knew musical theatre was where she wanted to be. Refusing to get a degree in education as a backup for fear she would quit when the road got rough, Tesori worked as an arranger for the early part of her career, fearing failure if she took a chance on original work.
It wasn’t until her 30s that Tesori finally moved outside her comfort zone and began composing her own work. Her first musical, “Violet,” was well received and started Tesori on a path of acclaimed work that would eventually lead her to a Tony Award for “Fun Home.”
BKF:
Another spawn of a musical family, Menken grew up learning to play piano and creating his own melodies to avoid practicing. After studying music at New York University, Menken was drawn to musical theatre after attending a BMI Musical Theatre workshop. He then spent decades working as an accompanist and writing music for shows that never saw the stage.
Collaborating with Howard Ashman, the two finally found success with the Off-Broadway musical “Little Shop of Horrors.” But Menken’s future success would not come from the stage, as he might have thought. The notoriety he gained from the success of “Little Shop of Horrors” scored him a gig composing songs for the animated films produced by Walt Disney Studios.
Menken wrote music for several successful Disney films, earning him multiple Oscars. It was because of that work that Menken made his Broadway debut with the adapted stage version of “Beauty and the Beast.” He has since split his time between films, television and the stage.
BKF:
“Lone Star Love,” a country music retelling of Shakespeare’s “The Merry Wives of Windsor” set in the Civil War-era South, was a success when it premiered off-Broadway in late 2004. After some retooling, the show was set to make its Broadway debut on Dec. 3, 2007, at the Belasco Theater. However, during its pre-Broadway engagement at Seattle’s 5th Avenue Theater, the show got mixed-to-negative reviews and suddenly scrapped its Broadway plans. So, what changed between Off-Broadway and Broadway? Two words: Randy Quaid.
Quaid, most famous for the role of “Cousin Eddie” in the “Vacation” films, was cast in the lead role of Colonel Falstaff. Quaid and his wife/manager Evi Quaid were allegedly as tyrannical as any Shakespearean villain. Quaid felt at liberty to change lines, blocking and lyrics anytime he saw fit. There were also several arguments over design elements, including the color of his wig and the size of his codpiece. The Quaids’ behavior became more erratic until it got so out of hand that the producers decided to simply close the show.
All 26 actors involved in the defunct production filed charges with Actor’s Equity against the Quaids, claiming, among other things, that he hit an actor several times on the head during a performance, made sexually suggestive comments to cast members and claimed that any actor who made direct eye contact with him onstage would be fired. Actor’s Equity found that the show was forced to close because of the odd and abusive behavior of Quaid, thus depriving the actors of their jobs. Quaid was forced to pay a fine of $81,572, which is a two-week’s salary for the cast and crew, and was banned from the union for life, according to the Backstage.
Oscar Hijuelos’ Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, “The Mambo Kings Play Songs of Love” told the story of two brothers from Cuba who come to New York City in 1949 trying to become recording artists. The book had been turned into a film in 1992 starring Armand Assante and Antonio Banderas in his first English-speaking role.
A few years after the movie was released, the film’s director, Arne Glimcher, began working on a stage version that he planned on directing, writing the lyrics to and co-authoring the book with Hijuelos. In 2002, it was rumored to be coming together, with the possibility of Banderas starring alongside Jon Secada and Jennifer Lopez.
Talks apparently fell through, and it wasn’t until 2004 that producer Daryl Roth and her son, future Jujamcyn President Jordan Roth, announced that they would team up for the first time to produce the show. Pre-Broadway tryouts were set for May 31, 2005, at San Francisco’s Golden Gate Theater in preparation for the Broadway premiere in July 20 at the Broadway Theatre. Esai Morales (“NYPD Blue”) and Jamie Camil (Rogelio on “Jane the Virgin) were cast as the Castillo brothers. Other cast members included Cuban music star Albita, Christiane Noll and David Alan Grier, who replaced star Billy Dee Williams when he dropped out due to a hip condition.
However, things started looking grim when the show opened to mostly negative reviews in San Francisco. The producers frantically began looking for several show doctors to help with the book, music and direction. While names such as Tommy Tune and Maury Yeston were rumored, the producers eventually hired playwright David Ives to help with the book, Jason Robert Brown to help with the music and Jerry Mitchell to help with the direction. But before the new creative team could even begin work, the producers announced there was no way to meet the current Broadway schedule and decided to close the show out of town.
It’s not uncommon for a show to change its name during its journey to Broadway. “Away We Go!” became “Oklahoma!,” “Elaborate Lives” became “Aida,” “Feeling Electric” became “Next to Normal,” etc. But few shows have had as many name changes as “Busker Alley.
It started in 1969 when the famous Disney songwriter brothers Robert and Richard Sherman (“Mary Poppins,” “The Jungle Book”) and Disney scriptwriter A.J. Carothers (“The Happiest Millionaire”) wrote a musical version of the 1938 film “St. Martin’s Lane” called “Piccadilly.” It told the story of a simple busker (street performer) who takes a younger woman under his wing and teaches her the art of busking.
However, nothing came of it until 1982, when they began rewriting the show with the new title, “Blow Us a Kiss.” Still, nothing would happen until 1991, when it was announced that Tommy Tune was attached to the project and yet another new title, “Busker Alley.” Initially announced for a May 1992 Broadway opening with a pre-Broadway tryout at Boston’s Colonial Theater, it wasn’t until 1995 that the show got underway with a 16-city tour before heading to the Great White Way.
While touring, the show would go through two more name changes. A survey conducted by the producers, Fran and Barry Weissler, revealed that most people didn’t know what a busker was, so they changed the name to “Stage Door Charley.” Then, for some reason, it was changed about a month later to “Buskers.” Finally, it reverted back to “Busker Alley.”
I can personally attest to this. When I was a child, I was taken to see this show by my grandparents. My ticket said “Stage Door Charley,” my program said “Busker Alley” and my souvenir book said “Buskers.”
After many rewrites, cut songs and cast replacements, the show was to open at the St. James Theater on Nov. 16, 1995. On Oct. 1, however, star Tommy Tune broke his foot during a performance in Tampa, Florida, the last tour stop before Broadway. While Tommy Steele and Gregory Hines were mentioned as possible replacements, the producers decided to end the run.
In 2006, a concert of the show starring Jim Dale would lead to another attempt to bring the show to Broadway, but that production was met with its own set of troubles before it was abandoned.
These performances might range from middle school performances to Broadway shows. You’d be amazed at how much theatre is happening around you (and at an affordable price)!
Theatre is great onstage, but reading scripts allows you to direct the plays on the stage in your mind and look at the material in a new way.
From different genres and styles to musical theatre, an actor can never have enough audition material. 2017 is the year to becoming an auditioning beast!
Whether your play lasts 10 minutes or is full-length, just write something! Everyone is a writer, and chances are good you have something interesting to write about. Learn how to format your script properly, and if you feel good about it, enter it into different competitions! At the very least, you’ll learn to appreciate playwrights a little more.
Pick a book you haven’t read and become an expert! There are thousands of books on design, performance, improvisation, writing, directing, dramaturgy, theatre history, etc. Find one that interests you, or finally read that one book all your friends say you need to read.
Essentially, this means Google-stalk celebrities in theatre and film whom you’re interested in learning more about. We all like to learn about actors and their rise to fame, but there are so many other people who make the magic happen. Find out as much as you can about them. Where did they go to school? What other projects have they worked on? Where are they from? When did they get started in theatre/film? Their stories and lives might interest and inspire you!
Theatre muggles think the only jobs available in theatre include acting, building sets and directing. As theatre wizards, we know that’s not the case. There are countless jobs in the world of theatre that many theatre nerds haven’t even heard about. Make it a priority to learn about a new job each month. Ask your friends and other theatre professionals about fun and interesting jobs they’ve seen in theatre.
We all know about the big-name theatre schools, but what about the ones we don’t hear about? Just because a school isn’t publicized as much as Juilliard or NYU doesn’t mean it couldn’t be the perfect fit for you. Whether you’re working on an undergraduate degree, graduate degree or hoping to take individual classes, knowing schools could help you make this decision. Check out the best school in your state and then see whether you can find the best theatre school in your surrounding states.
America is certainly a theatre and film powerhouse, but we can sometimes forget that every country has its own unique spin on theatre. Check out theatre venues, learn about famous playwrights and actors and see what else you can learn. You could be an American ambassador for culturally diverse theatre.
Regardless of where you are in your lifetime theatre journey, it’s never too early or too late to take a class. There are likely community classes or college-level classes near you that you can take. Theatres usually have some kind of education program for students of all ages, so look up your local theatre. You could even sign up for a class at Home Depot and learn how to work with tools and other building materials.
Do you struggle with the “Special Skills” portion of your resume? Maybe you have some special skills, but you want more! Pick a skill you wish you had and learn how to do it by watching tutorials on YouTube. Buy a book that will teach you how. Sign up for classes and learn from a professional. You’d be amazed at how fast you can boost your special skills.
Grab some of your theatre friends and put on a show for whoever wants to show up! Perform in a park, parking lot, bar, basement, warehouse or street corner — anywhere works! Write a script and make it a world premiere, or put on an improvised show. You can advertise for free with the wonder that is social media. You might team up with a business or charitable organization and make it an event. The possibilities are endless! You have so much power to create theatre, and you don’t even need to spend a single penny.
Maybe you consider yourself handy. Maybe you’ve never held a hammer. Regardless of your experience with construction, pick a project that requires designs and tools and build something! The task seems daunting when you get started, but you’ll feel so accomplished when you’re looking at your new shelves or birdhouse. We can’t all be on a tech crew all the time, but that doesn’t mean we can’t still develop and hone our technical skills!
With all the theatre-to-film adaptations floating around out there, we have no excuse for not watching them! On your next movie night or Netflix binge, watch some plays or musicals turned into movies. You’ll learn more about the plot, and you’ll be able to join in the conversation when your friends start discussing the play or musical.
When was the last time you updated your headshot and resume? With camera phones these days, everyone is a photographer. Grab a friend and a couple of outfits and hit up the nearest park, city or monument. Check out some free resume templates online and update your recent productions, training and accomplishments. Print or staple your resume to the back of your headshot, and you’re ready for your next audition!
Every theatre company has a distinctive purpose and mission statement. Learn about theatre companies near you and why they produce theatre. You’ll be amazed at the diverse productions and companies in your location. You could even go one step further and see a show produced by that theatre company. You’ll have a lot more respect for what it’s doing when you know why it’s doing it.
If you decide to follow these resolutions, you’ll be a new kind of theatre nerd. Infect your friends with your nerdiness by sharing your journey online. Even better, let your non-theatre friends see all the cool stuff you’re doing and encourage them to do the same. By expressing your experiences, you can help advocate for theatre and perhaps inspire others to do the same!
This is the first in a series of articles that will help you reach these resolutions. Check back soon for monthly updates and articles on how 2017 will be your year to become the ultimate theatre nerd!
[post_title] => 17 New Year Resolutions For Theatre Nerds
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[post_content] => Some of the most well-known musicals to English-speaking audiences did not always premiere in English. For example, did you know that the original French production of “Les Misérables” premiered in Paris in 1980? Foreign-language musicals from Europe often have the privilege of being performed throughout Europe in the language of each respective country.
For a musical audition, this is the most important call. Sometimes, casting will make it easy and assign material to sing, but more often than not, it’s your decision.
If you’re a veteran to the musical theatre audition circuit, you will probably have an audition book. This is a selection of songs (ranging in style) that you know well and can sing at the drop of a hat, usually kept in one overstuffed binder. It should be a varied repertoire that you really relate to. Look through it (or scour Google and music sheets if you don’t have one) and find the song you think fits the style of the show you’re going for. Again, be certain that you connect to your choice as a person.
Try to be wary of learning a new song, unless you have no choice. It’s best that you know the material like the back of your hand so when you get in the room and your nerves kick in, you can still let your personality shine through. After all, showing your personality gives you a leg up on your competition — no one else is like you!
This sounds like an obvious one, but many people don’t realize that to get work, you have to do a lot of work! Treat the audition like you would a performance because it’s essentially a chance to do what you love. You want casting to see you at your best, so be your best.
A Broadway performer once told me that they treat all of their songs like monologues. They write them out, mark them up with objectives and even read them aloud as they would a monologue. At their core, most songs are inner monologues. People in musicals sing their thoughts because they cannot speak them. So, handling a song like a monologue can help you discover new moments.
In preparation, lots of performers will enlist a vocal coach to assist them with their audition. This is obviously costly, so try to only do this when you feel like you really need it. It’s instrumental to hear the way your songs sounds on the piano and to get your teacher’s feedback on your song cut. Get the most out of your time together by recording your session, if it’s OK with your coach.
Sometimes it’s also useful to hold a rehearsal where you imagine yourself in the room. You can set up your room in an audition format and ask a friend to watch, or simply close your eyes and envision that you are in that space. While singing, you are hopefully going to be in another world, but it truly can help to anticipate your nerves. Go ahead, try it! You’ll be surprised to see how tense it can make you feel even thinking about being there. If you can curb your anxieties during that rehearsal, you’ll be more comfortable and connected in the room.
One of the biggest ways to make an impression is with your choice of clothing. You want to stand out, of course, but that doesn’t mean you need to throw on a sequin top or neon-colored sneakers.
Attempt to pick an outfit that is the essence of the role. For example, if you’re auditioning for “Newsies,” you don’t need to rent an authentic vest and pair of knickers from 1899. Show up in a nice button-down shirt. Or, let’s say you’re auditioning for the role of Anna in “The King and I.” There’s no need to run around like a maniac searching for a hoop skirt when you can simply wear a nice dress. Don’t make it too hard for yourself!
Basically, you don’t want to give casting any reason not to hire you. Spoon-feed it to them by wearing something that gives off the vibe of your character but is already in your closet. Ask a trusted pal for approval!
Overall, choose something that looks good and makes you feel good. And please, for their sake, don’t show up in any type of costume — unless you’re trying to get in the “bad audition” montage on a reality show.
We’ve all been uneasily seated outside the audition room waiting for our turn. We steal glances at our fellow auditioners (who look eerily similar to ourselves), press our ears against the door to listen to them sing and stare through our sheet music, relentlessly hoping it will overtake our brains. However, wasting your time in the waiting room with stressful acts like this is detrimental to the process.
Instead, get to your audition 10 minutes before your time slot (any earlier could annoy casting, since waiting spaces are usually small and they don’t want a lot of people sitting around) and loosen up. Find the bathroom, splash water on your face, do a quick vocal warm-up and, most of all, relax. The more laid-back you are, the easier your audition will be. Reading advice from a performer you admire right before you go can also be beneficial, so have it cued up on your phone!
This may seem obvious, but don’t underestimate the effectiveness of a flier with a great photo to promote a show. Plaster your town or city with them, and let their magic go to work.
Cost: Roughly 10 cents a page for copies at Staples.
Postcards are great for many reasons. First, you can mail them to important people you’d like in your audience. Second, you can put stacks of them in shops and cafes near the theatre to draw in audience members you don’t know.
Cost: Gotprint.com offers 500 postcards for under $25.
Have small stickers made up with your show’s logo, dates and links, and ask a local coffee shop whether it would be willing to stick them on their lids in exchange for a free ad in your show’s program. Each time patrons sip from their coffee cup, they’ll be face-to-face with your show’s cute and effective ad.
Cost: On Vistaprint.com, stickers are roughly 12 cents apiece. You can get 240 stickers for under $30.
Find a local podcast that’s about the arts or the happenings in your town, and ask them to do a segment on your show in exchange for comps to the show.
Cost: The price of a couple tickets.
The good news is, you can choose how much money you’ll put into an ad on social media, so you can spend a little or a lot depending on your budget.
Cost: Up to you!
Does someone you know blog about theatre or local events in your area? Get them to blog about the show by inviting them to a dress rehearsal.
Cost: Free
Even if you don’t personally have a lot of followers, you’ll cover a lot of ground if you get everyone in your cast and crew to post about the show on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook. Remember to post pictures that will stir intrigue or make people laugh.
Cost: Free
Post about your show on Twitter and turn it into a contest by asking people to retweet. One lucky RT will win a pair of tickets to the show. If you can swing it, throw in some swag, too! Who doesn’t love a free T-shirt?
Cost: Free
OK, so this isn’t always feasible, but the bigger the cast you have, the more people will be in your audience. That’s why sometimes it’s beneficial to have a Cast A and a Cast B for longer-running shows — not to mention understudies.
Is there a part in your show that can be done by a special guest audience member? Give away a small part through social media contests or audience raffles to raise money for the theatre. You’ll get more buzz from patrons who come to see their friend play the butler in one random scene.
Cost: Free
Use sites such as Wix.com to create a free website with all your show’s information. Include fun details about the cast and production process. You can also use the site to promote all your fun contests and ticket giveaways.
Cost: Free - $20
Have your cast volunteer to do some community work while getting the word out about your theatre and its production. One great way to do this is to offer a free acting class to kids in the area taught by members of the cast or the director. It always feels good to give back to the community — and adding some butts in the seats doesn’t feel bad, either.
Cost: Free
I have to admit, I was a bit late in getting this book. I thought I knew all there was to know about the making of this show, but this book dives into all aspects of creating the hit musical. From casting to discussing tech week at The Public, this is a must-read. Aside from the great insights and beautiful images, Miranda has also fully annotated every song in the show. Read the book and fall in love with the musical all over again.
Just think icebreakers. Every time you start a new show and need to get to know the cast, the first rehearsal consists of at least three of these. Funnily enough, it pretty much meant the same thing during Shakespeare’s time. Aside from referring to those awkward get-to-know-you games today, back then it also meant to make someone a little less frigid, i.e., Katherine in “Taming of the Shrew.”
Bet you didn’t know this one had Shakespearean roots! This word was used in such phrases as “What hempen home-spuns have we swaggering here, so near the cradle of the fairy queen?” Yes, it was used a bit differently than it’s used today, but still is all Shakespearean.
Before referring to the trend of putting rhinestones on anything you could get your hands on, this word was used by Shakespeare to describe the sun. Featured in such lines as, “Pardon, old father, my mistaking eyes, that have been so bedazzled with the sun that everything I look on seemeth green,” the word had a much nicer meaning a few hundred years ago.
Is anyone surprised Shakespeare is responsible for coining this word? Though the first recorded use of this word was in Shakespeare’s “Merry Wives of Windsor,” it seems more appropriate to use this line from “Hamlet”: “I’ll rant as well as thou.” Like his creator, Hamlet was not very brief.
More formally spoken in Shakespeare’s work as, “I have not slept one wink,” this one is pretty self-explanatory and is used pretty much the same way today. Whether it be the night before a big audition or all of tech week, this saying is extremely applicable to theatre nerds.
You probably thought this one was created by some physician a couple hundred years ago, but credit goes to Shakespeare yet again. The use of this word has not changed since the late 1500s: “Go make thyself like a nymph o’ the sea: be subject to no sight but thine and mine, invisible to every eyeball else.”
First used in “Macbeth,” the title character says, “Things without all remedy Should be without regard: what’s done, is done.” Today we use this saying in the same way, though not to refer to a recent murder we’ve committed.
It makes sense to start with the first ladies of Broadway: Angelica, Eliza (and Peggy). The beautiful colors of each gown pop from the stage, while each bodice has a design unique to each sister. They definitely know how to make those dresses work for them during the show, rocking the old-school frocks with the fierceness of Beyonce in hot pants.
This Russian romance just began its run on Broadway in November, and the costumes are stunning. The work of Tony Award-winning designer Paloma Young, all of the costumes in the show are a sight to behold. However, Natasha’s high-society gowns contain gorgeous beadwork and beautiful accessories that would look just perfect in your closet.
Who doesn’t love a great suit? Corny’s wardrobe choices are about as colorful and fun as his personality. He manages to pull off outfits that would look downright tacky on anyone else. Case in point: Derek Hough, the most recent Corny Collins, looked nothing but sleek in a variety of flashy suits during “Hairspray Live!”
If you were ever, ever envious of Barbie’s wardrobe, take a stroll through Glinda’s closet. The bright colors, sequins and variety of silhouettes make for dreamy ensembles full of feminine flair.
Designer Catherine Zuber took an old classic and made it modern in the recent revival of “Gigi.” The couture gowns seen onstage are worthy of any awards show red carpet. The chic French styles are any fashionista’s dream.
Let’s begin by saying that Sutton Foster could wear a paper bag and still look amazing. However, she’s certainly not the only actress to play the spunky Reno Sweeney, whose wardrobe is 1930s perfection. Wide-legged pants, fabulous dresses and nautical-inspired pieces are flawless retro fashion.
Leather, leather and more leather. Shakespeare has the suave style of an ‘80s rockstar. Created by popular Broadway costume designer Gregg Barnes, the fitted jacket and knee-high leather boots see the old-school playwright bringing sexy back.
Continuing on the leather theme, who hasn’t wanted to be Bad Sandy with her red high heels and leather pants? From cool to cute, her poodle skirts are equally adorable. Sandy’s wardrobe is certainly versatile, with an outfit for every mood.
There are too many fabulous boots to count. Combine them with the sparkle, the wigs and the extensive array of makeup, and we’ve got a winner. Besides knowing how to make boots, Lola certainly knows how to wear them. Fashion is an art form in this closet.
What we want? Elle Woods’ stylish, Carrie-Bradshaw-sized closet. She takes boring work wardrobes and gives them the makeover we all crave. The clothes are as sassy as her spunky personality and certainly jealousy-inducing.
Photo Credit: KD Markley Elementary[/caption]
Kids and adults alike will enjoy this 90’s nostalgia-based piece. It’s composed entirely in Nintendo synthesizers and follows famous video game characters who find themselves in a bit of a pickle: running out of lives! Their solution? Host a fundraiser for gold rings in order to keep on playing.
Photo Credit: Monica Simoes[/caption]
Inspired by Dr. Seuss’s iconic story, The Grunch is a love letter to theatre nerds everywhere. This tale dives into the incredible community that forms when putting on a show, and how we can never take away the “spirit of theatre”. (We dare you to keep your eyes dry during “It’s All Part of the Magic”.)
Photo Credit: The Garden Players[/caption]
A drab and dreary field trip goes awry when Gabby and her classmates get beamed into outer space. The whacky series of events that ensue help Gabby, a girl who gets picked on, become comfortable in her own skin. This show not only brings audiences a great lesson, but features aliens and pirates. Need we say more?
Photo Credit: Richard Lurie[/caption]
This mind-blowing show is like a G-rated version of Lord of the Flies...also with singing. When a backyard birthday bash turns into apocalyptic mayhem, a group of kids must build a new society from scratch -- using only party supplies. It’s quirky, crazy, comedic and, of course, epic.
The Garden Players[/caption]
Monsters aren’t just a figment of Netflix’s “Stranger Things” -- they’re a major player in this thrilling kids musical. In We Are Monsters, human kids sneak into a monster cabaret in an attempt to gain followers for their YouTube channel. What could possibly go wrong?
Photo Credit: Ravi Kohli[/caption]
Historical musicals are all the rage (*ahem* Hamilton) and Beat by Beat Press has got you covered. Tut, Tut is a loosely-based, contemporary take on the story of King Tut. This infamous King of Egypt took the throne at just 10 years old making it the perfect production for pint-sized actors.
Photo Credit: Monica Simoes[/caption]
Imagine a world that takes place “inside” of music. This fantastical show chronicles protagonists Maiden Melody and Radical Rhythm as they embark on an adventure to defeat the Sorcerer of Silence. It’s an adorable, heartwarming journey that you don’t want to miss.
Whether you’re in the car, in the shower or on the bus, you’re just bringing joy to all those around you.
May as well work on that toe, heel, heel, heel, toe, heel combo at the DMV.
Just as long as you’re not the caboose.
Everything has prop or costume potential!
You’ve done so many quick changes in the wings that you’ve lost all sense of modesty.
All those musical theatre ballet classes really did a number on your gait.
Theatre kids are really good at raising the stakes.
Just warming up my instrument!
It’s just more efficient than busting out a pirouette in the green room.
“Auditions have dried up, I’m done for. How have you been?”
Ah, this will come in handy for that “'night, Mother” monologue.
The “Hamilton” cast is way better than that puppy-monkey-baby commercial anyway.
They’re the coolest.
"sushi chef...sushi chef."
“All that glitters is not gold.”
Projection is a skillset you flex regardless of your surroundings.
“Right this way, pip-pip, cheerio.”
Every play you read, cast recording you hear & show you see is an opportunity for your next audition gem.
No, it’s not an unhealthy obsession.
What? They're comfortable, plus you never know when you will need to perform a jazz square.
Hi Mr. Mirror... watch me deliver this line 25 different ways.
“Hamilton’s” global dominance really hit its peak this year, with continuous sold-out shows, an opening in Chicago, a slew of awards and the release of the “Hamilton Mixtape.” It’s safe to say the show, and its creator, have taken the world by storm. Lin-Manuel Miranda announced a pile of new projects this year, including his work on the Disney musical “Moana” and his role in the upcoming “Mary Poppins Returns” alongside Emily Blunt.
Broadway took on television once again with a trifecta of performances this year. Kenny Ortega’s remake of “The Rocky Horror Picture Show” for Fox gave the cult classic new life. While the musical was filmed rather than a live performance, it exposed the show to a new generation.
Continuing its red-letter musical year, Fox also produced the ambitious musical television special, “Grease Live!” and raised the bar for all future television musicals with a live studio audience and variety of sets. NBC followed up that success later in the year with its own impressive and elaborate musical for TV, “Hairspray Live!”
And the fun is nowhere near ending. NBC announced its 2017 live musical will be “Bye Bye Birdie” and will star Jennifer Lopez.
A new year means the start of another awards season, and for the first time in ages, an original live-action movie musical is poised to score big. The critics are raving about “La La Land,” the charming movie musical with Hollywood favorites Emma Stone and Ryan Gosling. Oscar predictions have the film as a frontrunner for nominations, only encouraged by its sweep of several awards at the Critics Choice Awards. The new film throws it back to the classic feel-good Hollywood musicals, which is just the lift of optimism the new year needs.
In case you need another pick-me-up, Disney will be releasing its star-studded remake of the hit musical, “Beauty and the Beast” in March. The hotly anticipated film will feature songs from the ‘90s classic and new material written by the film’s original composer, Alan Menken.
These were just a few of the big-ticket items seen in 2016 — there were many, many more. Musical theatre appears poised to enter a mainstream golden age, which is nothing but good news for theatre nerds everywhere. As the industry continues to expand and become more mainstream, stereotypes will be smashed and barriers will be broken. The creation of new and original work will be encouraged, and more Lin-Manuel Miranda's will have their day in the sun.
With all of this, 2017 might not be as gloomy as everyone is predicting~
The mega-famous “Twilight” star says he “owes everything” to community theatre.
Before sinking his fangs into the hearts of teenage girls everywhere, Robert Pattinson discovered his love of acting in community theatre. Propelled by the desire to meet girls, he auditioned for a local amateur dramatic society, the Barnes Theatre Club, in Southeast London. Although he didn’t find a girlfriend there, a talent agent spotted him during a show at the theatre. As fate would have it, the agent introduced Pattinson to the then-director of “Harry Potter,” Mike Newell, who cast him as Cedric Diggory. The rest, of course, is history.
[caption id="" align="alignnone" width="789"] Pattinson performing at the Barnes Theatre in London / Credit: Barnes Theatre Co.[/caption]
“I just decided that I should try to act,” Pattison told Mirror. “So I auditioned for ‘Guys and Dolls’ and got a little tiny part as some Cuban dancer, and then I got the lead part, and then I got my agent. I owe everything to the Barnes Theatre Club.”
Do you want to build a … banana? Prior to reaching stardom with hit films such as “Frozen,” Kristen Bell was vying for roles in community theatre. She “flipped out” and cried at her first community theatre audition for a part in “Raggedy Ann and Andy.” Bell told NY Daily News that she ended up being cast “in the complex and dual role of the banana in the first act and the tree in the second act.”
Bell continued acting in community theatre up until college, saying that the friendships she made encouraged her to pursue her passion.
Chris Evans didn’t start out as a superhero. The “Captain America” star grew up performing in community theatre, acting with his two sisters and his brother in a children’s company called the Concord Youth Theatre.
“Each of us have done at least 15 to 20 shows there,” Evans told Backstage. His family was so into the Concord Youth Theatre that when Evans was around 18, his mother took over as the artistic director there and has been ever since. Seeing his older sister, Carly, onstage inspired Evans to be an actor.
“Her play would end, and she’d get flowers and candy, and it just seemed like such a good time,” he said. “She was having a ball and hanging out with her acting friends — it just looked awesome. I was like, ‘I’ll give this a shot.’”
So, he got involved in the theatre. “I fell in love,” he said. “I started doing plays year-round. I was always onstage.”
The “30 Rock” and “Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt” star credits community theatre for fostering her love of acting. In fact, Krakowski practically grew up at the Barn Theatre in New Jersey.
“My parents were involved in community theatre in New Jersey. Instead of hiring a babysitter, they would take me with them,” Krakowski told Newsday. “So my love of acting seeped in from watching my parents and seeing them have fun. When I was very little, I was in ‘A Christmas Carol,’ and my mom was Mrs. Cratchit. I also was in ‘Gypsy,’ and my dad was Herbie. Every time there was a part for a kid, they would see if they could sneak me in.”
https://youtu.be/GdlV5V8OlAg
With her “pitch perfect” presence, Anna Kendrick is currently a go-to performer for musical theatre films. Despite hitting it big with a Broadway role in “High Society” at age 12, the Oscar nominee’s first taste of theatre was through auditioning for local shows.
“My first audition was for ‘Annie,’ when I was like five years old and auditioning for community theatre,” the Maine native told E! News. The “Into the Woods” actress didn’t get the lead that time around, but she did play one of the other orphans in the production. Kendrick remembers the experience fondly, telling NPR that singing “Hard-Knock Life” was “the best.”
In an interview with The Portland Press Herald, Kendrick recalls doing multiple community theatre shows. “I think I only did shows at Lyric Theatre and smaller places,” she said. “I had some very formative experiences.”
Now a veteran performer of Broadway stages (not to mention a Tony and Emmy winner), Kristin Chenoweth started out learning the ropes on a community theatre stage. The “Wicked” star played in musicals such as “Anything Goes” at the Theatre Tulsa during her college years. Located in Oklahoma, Theatre Tulsa is the seventh longest-running community theatre in America and strives to educate artists through training and experience.
Chenoweth isn’t the only star to come out of the Theatre Tulsa, with actress Jeanne Tripplehorn and author Sam Harris receiving their first stage experiences there as well.
Although she is now a Hollywood darling (and a Best Actress winner!), Emma Stone began performing at a small theatre in her hometown in Arizona. The Valley Youth Theatre was a haven for Stone, who has said that performing helped curb her panic attacks when she was growing up.
Before leaving for California, Stone played in 18 different shows at the nonprofit theatre, including “Winnie the Pooh,” “The Princess and the Pea,” “The Little Mermaid” and “Cinderella.”
[caption id="" align="alignnone" width="428"] Stone as Eeyore at VYT / Credit: VYT.[/caption]
Bob Cooper, an acting coach at VYT who has known Stone since she was 11, revealed in an article with Daily Mail that she credits the local theatre for giving her the skills she needed.
“Thank you thank you thank you,” she wrote to him. “It’s all because of you.”
From Robert Pattinson to Emma Stone, here are seven well-known actors who got their start in community theatre:
1. Robert Pattinson
The mega-famous “Twilight” star says he “owes everything” to community theatre.
Before sinking his fangs into the hearts of teenage girls everywhere, Robert Pattinson discovered his love of acting in community theatre. Propelled by the desire to meet girls, he auditioned for a local amateur dramatic society, the Barnes Theatre Club, in Southeast London. Although he didn’t find a girlfriend there, a talent agent spotted him during a show at the theatre. As fate would have it, the agent introduced Pattinson to the then-director of “Harry Potter,” Mike Newell, who cast him as Cedric Diggory. The rest, of course, is history.
[caption id="" align="alignnone" width="789"] Pattinson performing at the Barnes Theatre in London / Credit: Barnes Theatre Co.[/caption]
“I just decided that I should try to act,” Pattison told Mirror. “So I auditioned for ‘Guys and Dolls’ and got a little tiny part as some Cuban dancer, and then I got the lead part, and then I got my agent. I owe everything to the Barnes Theatre Club.”
2. Kristen Bell
Do you want to build a … banana? Prior to reaching stardom with hit films such as “Frozen,” Kristen Bell was vying for roles in community theatre. She “flipped out” and cried at her first community theatre audition for a part in “Raggedy Ann and Andy.” Bell told NY Daily News that she ended up being cast “in the complex and dual role of the banana in the first act and the tree in the second act.”
Bell continued acting in community theatre up until college, saying that the friendships she made encouraged her to pursue her passion.
3. Chris Evans
Chris Evans didn’t start out as a superhero. The “Captain America” star grew up performing in community theatre, acting with his two sisters and his brother in a children’s company called the Concord Youth Theatre.
“Each of us have done at least 15 to 20 shows there,” Evans told Backstage. His family was so into the Concord Youth Theatre that when Evans was around 18, his mother took over as the artistic director there and has been ever since. Seeing his older sister, Carly, onstage inspired Evans to be an actor.
“Her play would end, and she’d get flowers and candy, and it just seemed like such a good time,” he said. “She was having a ball and hanging out with her acting friends — it just looked awesome. I was like, ‘I’ll give this a shot.’”
So, he got involved in the theatre. “I fell in love,” he said. “I started doing plays year-round. I was always onstage.”
4. Jane Krakowski
5. Anna Kendrick
With her “pitch perfect” presence, Anna Kendrick is currently a go-to performer for musical theatre films. Despite hitting it big with a Broadway role in “High Society” at age 12, the Oscar nominee’s first taste of theatre was through auditioning for local shows.
“My first audition was for ‘Annie,’ when I was like five years old and auditioning for community theatre,” the Maine native told E! News. The “Into the Woods” actress didn’t get the lead that time around, but she did play one of the other orphans in the production. Kendrick remembers the experience fondly, telling NPR that singing “Hard-Knock Life” was “the best.”
In an interview with The Portland Press Herald, Kendrick recalls doing multiple community theatre shows. “I think I only did shows at Lyric Theatre and smaller places,” she said. “I had some very formative experiences.”
6. Kristin Chenoweth
Now a veteran performer of Broadway stages (not to mention a Tony and Emmy winner), Kristin Chenoweth started out learning the ropes on a community theatre stage. The “Wicked” star played in musicals such as “Anything Goes” at the Theatre Tulsa during her college years. Located in Oklahoma, Theatre Tulsa is the seventh longest-running community theatre in America and strives to educate artists through training and experience.
Chenoweth isn’t the only star to come out of the Theatre Tulsa, with actress Jeanne Tripplehorn and author Sam Harris receiving their first stage experiences there as well.
7. Emma Stone
Although she is now a Hollywood darling (and a Best Actress winner!), Emma Stone began performing at a small theatre in her hometown in Arizona. The Valley Youth Theatre was a haven for Stone, who has said that performing helped curb her panic attacks when she was growing up.
Before leaving for California, Stone played in 18 different shows at the nonprofit theatre, including “Winnie the Pooh,” “The Princess and the Pea,” “The Little Mermaid” and “Cinderella.”
[caption id="" align="alignnone" width="428"] Stone as Eeyore at VYT / Credit: VYT.[/caption]
Bob Cooper, an acting coach at VYT who has known Stone since she was 11, revealed in an article with Daily Mail that she credits the local theatre for giving her the skills she needed.
“Thank you thank you thank you,” she wrote to him. “It’s all because of you.”
Do you have any other cool stories about stars in community theatre? Let us know in the comments below!
[post_title] => 7 Famous Actors Who Got Their Start In Community Theatre [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => 7-famous-actors-got-start-community-theatre [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2019-09-24 12:31:04 [post_modified_gmt] => 2019-09-24 16:31:04 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => http://theatrenerds.com/?p=7299 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 7 [filter] => raw ) [1] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 7249 [post_author] => 12 [post_date] => 2017-02-28 10:37:50 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-02-28 15:37:50 [post_content] =>Every artist needs a creativity boost every now and then. If you’re in a rut, here are some quotes from a mélange of thespians that should do the trick:
Did we miss any great thespian quotes? Add your favorites in the comments below...
[post_title] => 20 Incredible Thespian Quotes On Creativity [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => 20-incredible-thespian-quotes-creativity [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2017-02-28 10:37:50 [post_modified_gmt] => 2017-02-28 15:37:50 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => http://theatrenerds.com/?p=7249 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [2] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 7222 [post_author] => 391 [post_date] => 2017-02-27 10:14:07 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-02-27 15:14:07 [post_content] => Several contemporary duets are gems because of their unexpected brash humor and soaring vocal lines. In most cases, male/female duets or exclusively female duets take precedence, leaving male duets on the sidelines. But fear not! If any of you dirty rotten scoundrels wish to seize the day with some less frequently done numbers, here are 15 male/male duets you’ll love:1.“Two Nobodies in New York” from “[title of show]”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2E3xlSmg4BI In this duet from the 2008 Broadway musical, Jeff and Hunter decide to write a musical submission for the New York Musical Theatre Festival. It’s a great comedic duet that contextually rings true for budding composers. Voice 1: C3–B4. Voice 2: C3–G4.2. “Devil Take the Hindmost” From “Love Never Dies”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=631gbQQjmdo In this duet from the sequel to “The Phantom of the Opera,” Raoul and the Phantom try to claim Christine for themselves, even though she is married to Raoul. This duet is the one on this list most similar to the pop-opera style. Voice 1: E3–Ab4. Voice 2: E3–Ab4.3. “Worlds Apart” From “Big River”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hQWssAZImUw In this scene, Huck apologizes to Jim, a slave, after he pranks him and realizes he is still worthy of respect and dignity. This duet is influenced by folk and country music. Voice 1: B2–B4 (falsetto). Voice 2: B2–G4.4. “Dirty Rotten Number” From “Dirty Rotten Scoundrels”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tw16yKonkFU In this penultimate number, Lawrence and Freddy agree that the scam that backfired on them was still a good adventure. Voice 1: C3–Gb4. Voice 2: D3–Bb4.5. “Take What You Got” From “Kinky Boots”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X99Fub77VE4 Influenced by folk rock groups such as Mumford & Sons, this duet features Charlie talking to his friend, Harry, about saving the factory Charlie’s late father owned from bankruptcy. Voice 1: F#3–F#4. Voice 2: F#3–G#4.6. “You Can Do Better Than Him” From “Bonnie and Clyde”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D7uZarhOZ_8 Inspired by country music, a left turn from Frank Wildhorn’s usual pop-opera style, the imprisoned characters Ted and Clyde reflect on their feelings for Bonnie. Voice 1: B2–A4. Voice 2: E3–G4.7. “The Riddle Song” From “Floyd Collins”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YZcrB71XZ_A&index=11 This is of the most vocally challenging duets in contemporary theatre. In it, brothers Floyd and Homer recite riddles to each other while Floyd’s foot is trapped in a cave. Voice 1: C3–C5. Voice 1: C3–A4.8. “Together Again” From “Young Frankenstein”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FlcQIPuqcmQ In this classic-sounding Mel Brooks duet, the hunchback Igor tries to convince Frederick to be a mad scientist like Frederick’s grandfather. Voice 1: D3–G4. Voice 2: E3–E4.9. “Vegas” From “Tales from the Bad Years”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UsNBAxoZGdA In this Kerrigan-Lowdermilk duet, two friends try to live it up in Vegas for one weekend while tackling some misadventures. Warning: This song contains strong language and sexual dialogue). Voice 1: F#3–B4 (falsetto). Voice 2: C3–B4 (falsetto)10. “Blaze a Trail” From “Trails”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ciHC-t1EXhM In this duet, two friends who haven’t seen each other in 10 years decide to hike across the entire Appalachian Trail. Voice 1: E3–A4. Voice 2: E3–A4.11. “Boys” From “Glory Days”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tx6SVSJfhNY This musical, which closed after one official Broadway performance in 2008, features a beautiful coming-of-age duet. Two friends, Will and Skip, forgive each other for their mistakes and move on from the past. Voice 1: D3–A4. Voice 2: D3–A4.12. “You Are My” From “See Rock City”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zl0wQl3uBEk A more vulgar response to Jason Robert Brown’s “Songs for a New World,” “See Rock City” features two pals singing a duet about trying to one-up each other. Warning: Contains obscene language. Voice 1: D3–G4. Voice 2: D3–Bb4.13. “My Best Friend” by Jonathan Reid Gealt
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=veqLrGc4Yd4 Although not from a musical, Gealt’s works are popular among many top Broadway performers, such as Titus Burgess. This song is about two old friends who remember their earliest fun together and how they still value their time together. Voice 1: G#3–A4 (optional C#5). Voice 2: C#3–G4.14. “Henry and Mudge” From “Henry and Mudge”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bezk79CnuEQ This Kerrigan-Lowdermilk adaptation of the eponymous book series premiered Off-Broadway in 2006. This duet features the character Harry and his dog, Mudge, and how they enjoy playing together. Voice 1: A2–B4 (in falsetto). Voice 2: A2–E4.15. “Funky Fried Piece of Man Meat” From “Crazy, Just Like Me”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FFRVlkpUnXI One or the more notable “bromance” musicals (aside from “Book of Mormon”), this musical premiered in 2009 at the NAMT Showcase. This duet features the two friends, one of whom tries to embrace the other’s masculinity. Voice 1: G3–Bb4. Voice 2: Bb3–Bb4.Know an awesome male/male duet that we left off here? Let us know in the comments below...
[post_title] => 15 Overlooked Contemporary Male Duets [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => 15-overlooked-contemporary-male-duets [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2017-02-27 10:14:07 [post_modified_gmt] => 2017-02-27 15:14:07 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => http://theatrenerds.com/?p=7222 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 13 [filter] => raw ) [3] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 7227 [post_author] => 440 [post_date] => 2017-02-26 11:24:05 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-02-26 16:24:05 [post_content] => We’ve all heard the famous Charles Caleb Colton saying, “Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery.” And there’s no better place to find imitation than on YouTube. The internet has become every performer’s stage and the Bermuda Triangle of productivity for the rest of us. Bu since you’re going to take your phone to the bathroom anyway — it’s OK, we all do it — we’ve dug up some Broadway-inspired videos to fill your time and perhaps provide a little inspiration.Fire up your browser, because here are nine musical theatre tributes to check out on YouTube:
1. Christopher Rice — “Good Morning”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6TsE-vHxTtE Following the death of film legend Debbie Reynolds, Broadway actor Christopher Rice tapped his pals, Clay Thomson and Eloise Kropp, to recreate the famous number from “Singin’ in the Rain” as a tribute to the late star. The trio each showcase their triple-threat status, and Kropp is every bit as charming as Reynolds in the role of Kathy Seldon. BONUS: Check out Kropp again below in Cory Lingner’s gorgeous tribute to the musical, “White Christmas.” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_d_xD3q0yec2. Peter Hollens and Alex G. — “Disney Medley”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hfvehnyCQKU Peter Hollens is a YouTube veteran these days, with videos on his channel dating back to 2011. Hollens loves to cover pop songs, but his channel also features a variety of Broadway medleys. In this mashup of beloved movie musical songs, Hollens joins fellow YouTuber Alex G. for a video that is nothing short of Disney magic.3. bravofact — “Something’s Coming!”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5FkcZYdwSlA There’s a smorgasbord of talent in this side-by-side collaboration. Paul Nolan reprises his role as Tony from the Stratford Festival’s production of “West Side Story” to sing the Leonard Bernstein and Stephen Sondheim classic. Simultaneously, National Ballet of Canada dancer Guillaume Côté performs Jerome Robbins’ famous choreography. An abandoned building provides the perfect backdrop for this beautiful reminder of why “West Side Story” is one of the greats.4. Nick Pitera — “One-Man Les Misérables Medley”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R9IWAxSpgKA&index=7&list=PLHpmU8efgRa0FmbAeTmwIq0x2pqlZLo9T It’s hard not to be impressed by Nick Pitera. For starters, he has a surprising vocal range, which is how he manages to do a one-man version of the greatest hits from “Les Misérables.” Pitera is a Broadway fan and has covered the songs of several shows, including a “Wicked” medley performed with Hollens.5. Working With Lemons — “The Schuyler Sisters” and “My Shot and Aaron Burr, Sir”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OR5OtoUkVPo The production quality of these videos is noteworthy, especially considering the age of several of the participants. We’re pretty sure the music videos we made with our parents’ camcorders when we were that young looked nothing like these videos. The YouTube channel is operated by a group of family members and friends from Utah who love to make movies. Their “Hamilton” covers are tons of fun, and there’s some blossoming young talent in the group. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g8ug7TuMW3Q6. BYU Vocal Point — “Newsies Medley”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yVA3iYJ_H5Y The harmonies in this one are spot-on from the very first note. The talented a cappella group collaborated with several of the school’s student performers and crew to create an impressive, Broadway-worthy performance that proves they are more than just your average collegiate a cappella group.7. Alex Boyé ft. One Voice Children’s Choir — “Let It Go”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DAJYk1jOhzk You may have seen Alex Boyé on “America’s Got Talent” in 2015 when he blew the judges away with his performance of Taylor Swift’s mega-hit “Shake It Off.” However, before his television debut, Boyé set the internet on fire with an Africanized tribal cover of the popular Disney song with the talented and adorable One Voice Children’s Choir (also seen on “America’s Got Talent”).8. Evynne Hollens — “She Used to Be Mine”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5fdTJjEyuTE Does that name sound familiar? It should. Unfair as it may be to have that much talent in one family, Evynne Hollens is Peter Hollens’ musically gifted wife who also does Broadway covers. Her hauntingly beautiful tribute to “Waitress” is as impressive vocally as it is in production value, with the video set in a diner after hours.9. Musicality — “It’s Quiet Uptown”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5LrxaZ8Sm7s This high school vocal ensemble from Chicago has covered several of Lin-Manuel Miranda’s hits from “Hamilton.” The group is undoubtedly talented, but it’s their cover of “It’s Quiet Uptown” that shows an impressive maturity and emotional depth. BONUS: James Corden — “Broadway Carpool Karaoke” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YshgmStEZh0 So it’s not really a tribute video, but just in case there’s anyone out there who hasn’t seen this musical theatre-themed segment of James Corden’s popular karaoke bit, we’ve included it for good measure. The hilarious video features Miranda, Audra McDonald, Jesse Tyler Ferguson and Jake Krakowski.What are your favorite musical theatre-themed YouTube videos? Let us know in the comments below!
[post_title] => Watch These Mind Blowing Musical Theatre Tribute Videos [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => watch-musical-theatre-tribute-videos [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2017-07-06 11:27:44 [post_modified_gmt] => 2017-07-06 15:27:44 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => http://theatrenerds.com/?p=7227 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 1 [filter] => raw ) [4] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 6844 [post_author] => 12 [post_date] => 2017-02-25 09:39:06 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-02-25 14:39:06 [post_content] => [viralQuiz id=28] [post_title] => Quiz: Can You Guess These Plays By Their Opening Line? [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => quiz-can-guess-plays-opening-line [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2017-02-25 09:39:06 [post_modified_gmt] => 2017-02-25 14:39:06 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => http://theatrenerds.com/?p=6844 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [5] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 7070 [post_author] => 717 [post_date] => 2017-02-23 10:02:43 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-02-23 15:02:43 [post_content] => Wishing someone to break their leg? Sounds crazy, no? But in our little world of theatre, you might say every one of us is beholden to the grand traditions of the stage, trying to sing out a pleasant, simple tune without breaking their neck. It isn’t easy. You may ask, “Why do we stay up here if it’s so dangerous?” We stay because theatre is our home. And how do we keep our traditions alive? That I can tell you in one word: superstition! With apologies to Bock, Harnick and Stein, the theatre has many superstitions that must be obeyed to ensure a good performance. Some stem from otherworldly beliefs, while others stem from simple logistics. Let’s take a look at some of the more common myths and superstitions from the theatre:1. No Whistling Backstage!
Whistling while onstage or backstage in a theatre has long been considered bad luck. This superstition stems from the time before mechanized sets and backdrops. Back then, all the rigging for the sets, lighting, etc., was all operated by hand using ropes. As such, the backstage crew was often filled with sailors, as they literally “knew the ropes.” Just like on a ship at the time, commands and signals were given with distinct whistles. Therefore, if an actor or someone else were to nonchalantly whistle, it could cause confusion and ruin the show.
2. No Green or Blue Costumes!
While theatrical costumes are now often bright, flashy and full of color, two colors used to be off-limits for the superstitious actor. Wearing a green or blue costume was once thought of as very bad luck, though for very different reasons.
Green costumes were thought to be bad luck for two reasons:
- Everyone wants to be in the spotlight, right? Well, back in the day when the first spotlight was invented, it worked by burning a chemical called quicklime. This gave it its original nickname, “the limelight.” True to its name, the limelight had a greenish glow to it, so if an actor wore green, he or she might not be visible when hit by the spotlight.
- The other reason green was deemed unlucky has to do with famed actor/playwright Molière. In 1673, Molière was performing in his play, “The Imaginary Invalid,” when he suffered a coughing fit onstage brought on by tuberculosis and started to hemorrhage. He finished his performance (talk about dedication) but died a few hours later, still in costume. The color of the costume? Green, of course. It was considered unlucky ever since.
3. “The Scottish Play”
Shakespeare’s “Macbeth” is one of the most popular plays ever written. It’s also believed to be the most cursed — so much so that just saying the name of the play in a theatre is considered very bad luck. Most actors will only refer to it as “The Scottish Play,” “The Bard’s Play” or even “Mac B.”
Some believe that Shakespeare gave his three witch characters actual spell incarnations for lines. As retaliation, a coven of actual witches cursed the play for all eternity. This could seem silly and/or highly doubtful in the modern world, but it’s hard to deny that “Macbeth” has seen more than its fair share of unfortunate incidents.
It’s believed the first occurrence of the “curse” actually happened during the first production of the play. It’s said that the young man playing Lady Macbeth (actors in Shakespeare’s time were, by law, all men) tragically died on opening night and Shakespeare himself had to step in. There have been numerous incidents of actors getting accidentally stabbed during fight scenes. In 1934, four actors had to step into the role of Macbeth due to illness or accidents in one week. It was also the show in which dueling productions caused the great Astor Place Riot in 1849, leaving at least 25 dead and hundreds injured.
Luckily, there is a way to combat the curse! If you say the play-that-must-not-be-named in a theatre, you must run around the building three times, then spin around, curse and beg to be let back in.
4. “Goodnight Olive”
If you are ever so lucky to go backstage at the legendary New Amsterdam Theater in New York, you may notice a portrait of a beautiful showgirl hanging on the wall right as you enter. Her name is Olive Thomas, and her picture is there for a very specific reason.
Olive Thomas was a Ziegfeld Girl (and, for a time, was Ziegfeld’s girl) and a silent film star in the early 20th century. Later, she married Jack Pickford, brother of silent film superstar Mary Pickford, and the two had a passionate but volatile relationship. In 1920, they were on a second honeymoon in Paris when tragedy struck. Jack was awakened by Olive screaming, having ingested mercury bichloride that had been prescribed to Pickford to treat his syphilis. She died four days later at age 26. Was it an accident? Was it a suicide? Or was it something more sinister?
However, Olive has not entirely left us. It is widely believed that Olive’s ghost haunts The New Amsterdam, the same theatre where she performed in the Ziegfeld Follies and Midnight Frolics. She can reportedly be seen carrying a small blue bottle (like the one containing the chemicals that killed her) and wearing a green, beaded dress. She even caused a security guard to call the vice president of Disney Theatricals (the owner of the theatre) at 2:30 a.m. in a panic after seeing her. She is said to appear to mainly men and is even known to be naughty and pinch a bottom or two.
The portrait of Olive hangs right by the stage door to the theatre so that the cast and crew can say goodnight to her as the leave to appease her.
5. “Break a Leg”
Almost every actor knows that it’s bad luck to say “good luck” before a performance. But where does that phrase come from? There are actually many different theories regarding the origin of the phrase, but there’s no hard evidence to prove any of them. Some theories have origins in Ancient Greece, Elizabethan England and the Civil War era. However, it doesn’t seem that the phrase was used until the 1920s.
Some believe that it refers to bowing, which is also known as “breaking the leg” because of the bended knee. Others attribute the saying to an old German toast, “Hals und Beinbruch,” which means “neck and leg fracture.” Still, some say it has to do with the curtain legs, which are the side curtains in the wings of a stage.
Which one is the real origin? The world may never know.
6. No Peacock Feathers!
There are several items you are never supposed to use onstage. Peacock feathers are considered bad luck because the pattern on the feather creates an “evil eye.” You are also never supposed to use real money or jewelry onstage. This stems from simply trying to deter theft, which was rampant when theatres were not considered the respectable places they are today.
7. No Mirrors!
It’s very bad luck to have a mirror on your set. However, the reason has nothing to do with spirits or omens, but rather lighting. Mirrors can reflect the lighting and disrupt the look of a show, though it sees to have worked out just fine for “A Chorus Line” and “The Phantom of the Opera.”
8. Three Lit Candles
While the “rule of three” usually means that it’s good luck to have things in sets of three, this is not true when it comes to the theatre and candles. Having three lit candles onstage is said to be very unlucky, and the person standing next to the shortest candle will be the next one to get married — or die. While the origin is not perfectly clear, it’s widely believed that this came from the time when theatres were lit with candles and torches, not electricity. Hundreds of theatres burned down in that period, so it’s believed that the superstition stems from trying to eliminate the amount of candles onstage.
9. The Ghostlight
Just about every professional theatre in America has a ghostlight. It’s a long, simple pole, usually three to five feet high, with a single bulb that’s either bare or has a wire cage around it. It’s placed onstage every night after the show is finished and everyone has gone home. With everything else in the theatre turned off, the ghostlight will be the only thing still on until work begins the next day. Why?
Well, it turns out the history of the ghostlight isn’t actually super clear. However, there are many myths and legends on hand to try to explain the ritual. One believed by many scholars takes us back to before the invention of the light bulb. Back then, theatres were lit with gas-burning lights that ran on gas generators. A single light would be left, burning all night to alleviate the pressure on the gas lines, which might otherwise build up overnight and cause fires. Then, somewhere along the way, the word “gaslight” morphed into “ghostlight.”
Another theory has it that in 1919, when Actors Equity was first recognized as a union, one of its requirements was that a single light had to be left onstage so that rehearsal pianists could come and set up for rehearsals without having to wait for the house electricians to turn the lights on. Though it’s unclear whether this is true, to this day, some people still refer to the ghostlight as the “Equity Lamp.”
Another famous legend has it that a robber broke into a theatre in the middle of the night, and not knowing about orchestra pits, fell off the stage and broke his leg. He then sued the theatre for negligence — and won! So, ghostlights are there to prevent liabilities. Robber or not, many believe that the reason for the ghostlight is simply to prevent anyone from falling, breaking their neck and becoming ghosts themselves.
Still, the most prevalent reasons given for the ghostlight involve, obviously, ghosts! As all thespians know, most theatres are haunted. Depending on the theatre nerd you talk to, the light is there to either help or hinder said ghosts. Some think that the light shoos away mischievous ghosts who might mess with the sets or costumes if left to their own devices. Since most theatre ghosts were once performers, others think that the light is left on to appease the spirits and give them lighting for their ghostly nighttime theatre.
Whatever the reason, the ghostlight has become a beloved theatre tradition. Record labels, musicals, biographies and many theatre companies have adopted the name “Ghostlight.” It’s come to symbolize those that have tread the boards before us and it’s our way to honor them.
Do you follow any of these traditions? Have any theatre superstitions of your own? Let us know in the comments below...
[post_title] => 9 Theatre Superstitions Explained [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => 9-theatre-superstitions-explained [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2017-02-23 10:02:43 [post_modified_gmt] => 2017-02-23 15:02:43 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => http://theatrenerds.com/?p=7070 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 2 [filter] => raw ) [6] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 7040 [post_author] => 440 [post_date] => 2017-02-22 09:56:54 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-02-22 14:56:54 [post_content] => I’ve always been a sucker for a good romance. An embarrassingly significant portion of my misspent youth involved watching romantic comedies with my friends and longing for the day that Freddie Prinze Jr. would walk into my school, pull me out of social Siberia and announce to everyone that he’d always been in love with me. A rousing choreographed number would follow this whole scene, of course. You can see I had a flair for the dramatic, so it’s no surprise to anyone that I spent the rest of my free time taking part in a variety of theatrical productions.
Being involved in countless shows, I’m not ashamed to admit that I have fallen prey to more than one “showmance” in my time. If you are unfamiliar with the term, it is a romance that develops between two people during a production, be it theatre, television or movies. When I was in my early teens, suffering through braces and an unfortunate choice to get bangs, I would find myself crushing on the older actors in the leading roles who barely registered my existence. A misguided part of my brain was certain this was where my romantic future lay, and I dreamt of what it would be like to be noticed by them, to be the one they fell in love with every performance. Until finally, in one production all those years ago, my wish came true.
I auditioned for the play on a complete whim after days of agonizing over whether I would go at all. It was probably the most underprepared I have ever been at an audition, but somehow the director found it all endearing and cast me in the show.
At the first rehearsal, I met my castmates, including one in particular who sought me out. He was to play opposite me as my love interest. He politely shook my hand and told me he was looking forward to working with me before he bid me goodnight. He was tall, classically handsome and charming, like he’d just fallen out of a Ralph Lauren catalogue. He affected almost every girl in the cast and crew, whether they admitted it or not.
It was hard not to notice him. He was articulate, he held doors and he woredress shirts with cashmere sweaters. This was a far cry from the typical boys we were used to, in their offensive T-shirts and hoodies. He rarely socialized with other members of the cast, and his nature was quiet until he stepped onto the stage and came alive in his role. Passionate, reckless, romantic and smart, he played his part with such ease. We all watched him in awe from backstage, and even our director was excited by scoring such a stellar male lead. As rehearsals progressed, it was not surprising that I developed a crush.
I worked hard to fulfill my role opposite him as the love interest and devoted all of my free time to rehearsal and hanging out with my friends in the cast. During rehearsal downtime, we’d often sit together in the audience, which is exactly where one of the girls I’d become close friends with confessed her feelings for my onstage love interest. My heart sank. She couldn’t possibly have known about my crush, as I’d been careful not to mention it to anyone, choosing to pine in silence. The knot in my stomach tightened when she asked for my help to win him over, given my role as his fictional other half. If I refused, I risked losing her friendship, and even messier, I would have to figure out how to explain why I couldn’t help her — open can, worms everywhere. So, I agreed to help.
Rather than try to sort out my emotions, I threw myself full-tilt into the production and being with my show family. Whispers were circulating about our chemistry, and while I denied them, it did nothing to stop the rumor mill and only spurred me on. It was not my finest moment.
However, the more time went on and I got to know my onstage love, the more I actually got to know him. In doing so, I realized something very important: I hadn’t actually known him at all, and I certainly wasn’t infatuated with him. I was attracted to the character he played. My heart longed for his perfectly written stage self in the same way I longed for Heath Ledger’s Patrick Verona from “10 Things I Hate About You.” That was who gave me butterflies in my stomach. I was swooning over the words he spoke to me night after night and the passion he had been told to emote. The real guy was nothing like the man I was pining for.
When the show came to a close and for a short time after, we tried to meet up and hang out together as a group. But the thing that had ultimately bonded us was no longer, and we couldn’t recapture the same magic. The post-show grief hit me like a ton of bricks at the time. Because the end of a production is like the end of a good relationship, it hurt because it mattered.
I came out of my grief long enough to notice a real guy I’d been neglecting in favor of my fantasy man. In spite of the complete brush-off I’d been giving him for nearly two months, he’d come to see the show. Twice. He’d known how important it was to me. As it turns out, the romance I’d wanted had been right in front of me the whole time.
I know this all sounds like the basis for another “High School Musical” movie, and in truth, said guy and I split up a year later. But my first foray into showmance territory did leave its mark on me. I took away some very important lessons that helped me see things with clearer eyes when the opportunity to date a castmate came up again:
1. Your cast-mate is not their character
And neither are you. Any actor who is worth their salt will play the character so convincingly that they are transformed right before your eyes. For those few hours a night, they are the person that they play, taking on their emotions and experiences. But then, the curtain falls and they go back to being the person you may not have anything in common with. Get to know the person offstage and make sure you like them just as much.2. Chemistry is not always transferrable
Just because you have electricity onstage doesn’t mean you’ll have it in reality. Sometimes you’ll get lucky, and it works out that you have just as much fire outside of the theatre. My married friends who began their relationships as showmances can attest to that. But it’s not always the case. That being said, it doesn’t mean you can’t forge a great friendship instead.3. You’re too close to be objective
Ever heard the phrase, “It’s hard to see the forest through the trees?” In this case, it’s true. Just because you think this is a romance for the ages doesn’t mean it is. They may not even feel the same way about you. Always remember that objects in the mirror may appear closer than they really are.4. It’s not worth ruining friendships over
My friend quickly recovered from her crush once our show wrapped, and we remained close for several years after. Neither of us ended up with that guy, and I’m glad we didn’t, since I would have missed out on a beautiful friendship.5. There is no such thing as secrets backstage
Few secrets can be kept under wraps when you spend so many waking hours with a group of people. Rumors will start, but try not to get swept up in the excitement or let it sway your decisions. Just trust your gut and be sure you’re ready for all the scrutiny.6. The show ends eventually
You’re in it, mind, body and soul. So while it may feel like the whole experience of the show and the people you’re with will last forever, it doesn’t. You will grieve and feel like you’ll never find something that good again, but ultimately, you will. It won’t be the same, but it will be fantastic in its own way. It’s been years since my first showmance experience, but I like to think I’ve grown somewhat wiser in the romance department. My heart no longer flutters at the sound of every well-delivered romantic line. Unless it’s uttered by Heath Ledger in front of a 1964 Dodge Dart with a gorgeous apology guitar. Some things never change.
Have a showmance experience of your own? Leave a reply in the comments below...
[post_title] => What I Learned From My First Showmance [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => learned-first-showmance [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2017-02-22 09:56:54 [post_modified_gmt] => 2017-02-22 14:56:54 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => http://theatrenerds.com/?p=7040 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 9 [filter] => raw ) [7] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 6587 [post_author] => 391 [post_date] => 2017-02-21 10:25:38 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-02-21 15:25:38 [post_content] => From performing lifts and jumps to endlessly trying not to get sick, one of the most important parts of being a performer is staying fit. Part of every great workout is having a playlist that keeps you energized and motivated. The next time you need go-to songs for the treadmill or weights, here are 15 tracks that will suit you perfectly:1. “My Shot” from “Hamilton”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VK4Wk_8PbcI Lin-Manuel Miranda’s hip-hop-influenced sound in “Hamilton” is perfect for that motivational build during the tougher parts of working out. In true “Hamilton” fashion, this song’s spirit will help you “talk less, smile more.”2. “So Much Better” from “Legally Blonde”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1hKrd0QFMYo The Act 1 finale of this upbeat, high-energy show is a great go-to for fast-paced activities. To borrow another song title from the show, Elle’s turning point as a character will get you “whipped into shape” for sure.3. “Defying Gravity” from “Wicked”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I320ZDJxfJk As one of the greatest show tunes in contemporary musical theatre, this song will generate excitement that will never bring you down, even during the toughest reps of your workout.4. “You’re in the Band” from “School of Rock”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oxxUnczjkfc Sometimes you just need the energy of a bunch of kids to keep going on that grind. This number should do the trick!5. “What I Was Born to Do” from “Bring It On: The Musical”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zr20tq1qQD8 One of the more athletic musicals to hit Broadway in recent years, this show oozes in competitiveness and dance-heavy numbers that will make aerobics and cardio worthwhile.6. “I’m Alive” from “Next to Normal”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZAhgX7RleDQ Because honestly, who isn’t muttering this song’s title in relief after a strenuous time at the gym?7. “You Can’t Stop the Beat” from “Hairspray”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ef-qYxmJbGU While your heart’s keeping time to the speed of sound, you’re sweating away to seek the best results for your body. Keep it up!8. “Carnaval del Barrio” from “In the Heights”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=covOud6aewQ This irresistible Latin-style jam is a great choice for Zumba and will leave you and your dancers proclaiming “Wepa!” after a fun session.9. “Sex Is in the Heel” from “Kinky Boots”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2EvruybO2oc No workout — or should we say werrrrrk-out — is complete without at least one song from this outrageously fun show.10. “Hot Honey Rag” from “Chicago”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8mtwWu3vMQM Both the physically exhausting choreography and the upbeat jazz music speak for themselves here to keep you hyped up during your routines.11. “The River of Dreams/Keeping the Faith/Only the Good Die Young” from “Movin’ Out”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=plIi5TGaq_U This thrilling medley is a fantastic piece for dance-heavy workouts that would leave even Twyla Tharp breathless.12. “My Dead Gay Son” from “Heathers”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2k8DwNoAYQY Working out to this “fancy-free and reckless” song will make people who envy your physique ask yourself, “What’s their damage?”13. “The Angry Dance” from “Billy Elliot”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xKZUzVLqBTY The rage these characters feel during this song will help you push through to your physical limits, especially during weight training.14. “Take Me to Heaven (Reprise)” from “Sister Act”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3hDv4YIl7iw Let this song be your prayer or divine calling to keep pushing through the end of your gym time.15. “Make Me Stronger” from “Memphis”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jpm4x_3eT-g The title says it all. Your dedication and self-motivation always pay off in the end.Did we leave out your favorite workout show tune here? Let us know your picks in the comments below...
[post_title] => 15 Best Broadway Showtunes For Workouts [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => 15-best-broadway-showtunes-workouts [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2017-07-11 18:11:04 [post_modified_gmt] => 2017-07-11 22:11:04 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => http://theatrenerds.com/?p=6587 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 26 [filter] => raw ) [8] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 6869 [post_author] => 11 [post_date] => 2017-02-18 10:06:59 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-02-18 15:06:59 [post_content] => [viralQuiz id=33] [post_title] => Quiz: How Well Do You Know These 'Hamilton' Stars? [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => quiz-how-well-know-hamilton-stars [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2017-07-11 18:11:55 [post_modified_gmt] => 2017-07-11 22:11:55 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => http://theatrenerds.com/?p=6869 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [9] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 6920 [post_author] => 639 [post_date] => 2017-02-17 09:54:57 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-02-17 14:54:57 [post_content] => One of the biggest shows this season, “Dear Evan Hansen” is taking Broadway by storm as audiences flock to go see this nearly sold-out show. Directed by Michael Greif (“Rent,” “If/Then”), this original new musical is refreshing in a season filled with many shows based on films and books. Once you walk into the theatre, you will be captivated by the story and title character. Here are six things to expect from this new breakout musical:1. A Relatable Story
Before I saw this musical, I did not know much about the story. The details that have been released to the public about the plot have been pretty vague. What I can tell you without giving too much away is that this story is relatable and familiar, but with a twist. Evan Hansen is someone who feels like he doesn’t matter, and when a tragedy strikes, one little lie spirals out of control and changes everything.
This musical speaks to the part of you that has ever felt lonely or just a little bit lost. Along with identifying with Evan, this show is also relatable for parents who have ever had to deal with a troubled child. This story is both beautiful and heartbreaking.
2. Ben Platt
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x_CNqKA2t9M No longer on the sidelines in “Pitch Perfect,” Platt takes center stage in a brilliant and heartwarming performance. Platt plays a teenager who is just trying to find his place in the world and feel like he belongs. The emotion he exudes, along with his vocal performance, is something you have to see to believe. To be fully committed to his role throughout the entire show looks emotionally and physically draining, but he never misses a beat. It’s very difficult not to feel for this character from the first scene to the last.3. The Music
Benj Pasek and Justin Paul, whose past projects include “Smash,” “Dogfight” and a little film called “La La Land,” composed the music for this show. The story of “Dear Evan Hansen” was actually inspired by an event that took place in Pasek’s childhood. The event caused everyone to want to be a part of something, which is a consistent theme throughout the score of the musical.
From “Waving Through a Window” to “You Will Be Found,” there are definitely some new musical classics in this show. What is most impressive is the emotion that is in every song. From the funnier numbers to the uplifting pieces, every song leaves you feeling something, making the show a bit of an emotional rollercoaster that’s certainly worth riding.
Oh, and Alex Lacamoire of “In the Heights” and “Hamilton” also acted as the musical supervisor on this show.
4. The Set
From the subject matter to the music, this is definitely a modern musical. The set exudes everything it is to be a teen in the 21st century. Physically, it’s a pretty minimal set, but the way the show uses screens to portray all forms of social media to fuel the story is mesmerizing.
5. A Real Team Effort
Only eight people make up the cast of this musical, which you may find difficult to believe if you’ve already listened to the OBCR. Musically, they are impressive. I’ve gushed about Platt enough, but the power this cast delivers in its vocal performance is amazing and will give you goosebumps.
Then there are the characters they play. Every actor is perfectly suited in his or her role. From Jennifer Laura Thomas and Michael Park’s representation of dysfunctional family members trying to get by to Will Roland’s effective portrayal of a bro-like teen, all of these characters are far more complex than they seem at first glance.
6. Lots and Lots of Tears
You definitely want to bring tissues to this one. You can try to hold it together, but it probably won’t happen. After the finale, I clapped my own tears into my face. I didn’t even realize I’d cried that much.
Parts of this show are heartbreaking. Parts of this show are hysterically funny. And that’s life. We all just want to feel that we belong, and in the end, that we’ll be found — and that is the message of “Dear Evan Hansen.”
What do you love most about Dear Evan Hansen? Leave a reply below...
[post_title] => 6 Things To Expect From Dear Evan Hansen [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => 6-things-expect-dear-evan-hansen [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2017-02-17 17:12:54 [post_modified_gmt] => 2017-02-17 22:12:54 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => http://theatrenerds.com/?p=6920 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 1 [filter] => raw ) [10] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 6899 [post_author] => 712 [post_date] => 2017-02-16 10:53:48 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-02-16 15:53:48 [post_content] => Although we don’t always like the notion, as performers, we are brands, and as brands, we must market ourselves in the best light possible. Aside from a headshot, the resume is an actor’s No. 1 tool for auditioning. Designing a resume correctly is sometimes an utterly painful process, but always an imperative one. In the theatre world, production teams are inundated with actors vying for a part in their show. To get even an audition is a triumph. So, think of your resume as your golden ticket that will set you apart and show the casting team you deserve to be seen. While this process is subjective, here is an overall guide for putting together an exceptional acting resume:Sizing
Here’s a semi-obvious reminder: Your resume should always fit on a single page. Although digital is taking over, a lot of casting directors still prefer a physical copy. Your resume should be printed and stapled to the back of your headshot. As an industry standard, headshots are 8x10 inches. This means your resume should be cut down to that size as well so it’s flush. Stores like Staples have cutting boards you can use, so consider printing your resume there and then trimming off the excess paper. On a related side note, get your headshot printed at a place that specializes in producing actors’ headshots to size. For you city folk, Reproductions.com is top-notch.Aesthetics
Well-crafted resumes are like chameleons: They have the ability to both blend in and stand out. It should blend in the sense that it encapsulates the standard look of a resume. Most teams don’t have time to adjust to some wildly formatted “Look at me, I’m different!” style. That being said, your resume should still stand out enough. While a typical format is good to use, there are liberties that can be taken to make it more “you.” The biggest one is your font. Choose a font that fits your personality — nothing crazy, of course! However, if it’s legible and will separate you from all those Times New Romans out there, go for it. You can also play around with color — albeit sparingly. Your name, which should be in the largest font on the page, is a great place to change colors. Again, don’t go nuts and use a hot pink or something, but a subdued color can make your name pop suitably.Name/Heading Information
As stated previously, try out your name in a color and fun font. If you have representation, you should put their logo beside your name. Also include the following information:- Union affiliations (SAG-AFTRA or Equity, etc.), if any.
- The contact information you list should be the best way to reach you. Generally that’s your phone number and email. Don’t put your full address. You can also list your website or IMDB page.
- Personal information such as height, weight, hair color and eye color. Don’t write your age unless you’re under 18.
- You can also put your voice part here if you’re interested in musical theatre.
YOUR NAME [SAG-AFTRA] Phone Number/ Email/ Website Height: Weight: (optional) Hair Color: Eye Color: Credits There’s a common misconception that the more credits listed on the page, the more professional you look. However, you almost want the opposite. Choose your best and most recent roles and allow for the blank space to shine through. White space makes it much easier to read. People are typically only going to spend a few seconds looking at your resume, so have your most impressive roles (or, where possible, the ones that relate to the role you’re submitting for) at the top. It’s tempting to keep everything in chronological order, but if the credits are within a similar time frame, it’s much better to have the notable ones listed first. Again, if you had a starring role in high school and are now almost 30, don’t keep that on your resume. Also, don’t put “background work” on your resume unless you were featured or had a line. Depending on the mediums you work in, have bold headings that separate your credits (i.e., THEATRE, TELEVISION, FILM, etc.) If you’re looking to go in for multiple types of projects, create various versions of your resume. When auditioning for theatre, have your theatre credits listed first. The same goes for movies and TV. You want to make it as easy as possible for them to cast you. Credits should always be in three separate columns. The following is the format for listing theatre credits: SHOW NAME, ROLE and THEATRE COMPANY. If there is a notable director or producer, you should definitely put that down, too. Here is an example of how credits should be formatted: BROADWAY Spring Awakening Mortiz Eugene O’Neill Theatre Television and film credits are similar, but should be stylized as follows: PROJECT TITLE, TYPE OF ROLES (not your character), and NETWORK/PRODUCTION CO. (or director/producer if notable). This goes without saying, but you never want to lie on your resume. The truth always comes out! Training/Education Although this portion of your resume is straightforward, it’s one of the most important to ace. Showing you’ve received proper training is incredibly vital. Sure, you might be the next Jennifer Lawrence, harboring heaps of raw talent, but you can’t exactly write that on your resume without sounding pompous. Simply put the name of the institution, class or workshop and instructor. And if you haven’t had an opportunity to train yet, don’t sweat it! Special Skills Time to have fun! This section of the resume is really the only spot where you can add a bit more personality. Depending on how much room there is, list any special skills that you feel set you apart and could be utilized for a future role. There are no strict guidelines for this section, except that what you write should be a skill and not a fun fact. If you put down that you can do some type of accent, that’s awesome! Just make sure you can really do it — you never know when casting will ask to hear it. It can be quirky to have little asides in this section. For example, if you can twist your entire body into a pretzel, you could playfully write, “amateur contortionist (seriously, ask me to do some moves!).”
Overall, use your best judgement while typing up your resume and don’t be afraid to ask for advice.
Want a professional example? Download Robert's acting resume HERE
Hey Theatre Nerds! Do you have a tip to add? Let us know in the comment section below...
Click Here To Learn How To Setup, Build And Launch Your Personal Actor Website
[post_title] => How To Write An Eye-Catching Acting Resume [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => how-to-write-acting-resume [to_ping] => [pinged] => https://theatrenerds.com/how-to-setup-build-launch-your-personal-actor-website/ [post_modified] => 2018-10-01 01:08:32 [post_modified_gmt] => 2018-10-01 05:08:32 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => http://theatrenerds.com/?p=6899 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 2 [filter] => raw ) [11] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 6891 [post_author] => 391 [post_date] => 2017-02-15 13:28:42 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-02-15 18:28:42 [post_content] => For better or worse, Andrew Lloyd Webber’s “Cats” has become the musical so many people love to hate. Consequently, the scathing vitriol that critics have toward the show makes fans feel, in Grizabella’s words, all alone in the moonlight. Considering its long-lasting popularity on Broadway and the West End, fans of the show (such as me) often wonder whether the hate for the show is really justified. Call me crazy, but I’ve never thought so. Allow me to explain why there is more to “Cats” beneath all the Jellicle flair.“Allegorical Cats, Metaphorical Cats…”
The most common criticism I’ve heard for “Cats” is that there is “simply no plot.” I beg to differ, since the audience learns in the beginning about the Jellicle Ball, when “Old Deuteronomy just before dawn … announces the cat who can now be reborn.” The trip to the Heavyside Layer is the core of the show, and it is the motive for all the cats to introduce themselves and display their various talents while competing to enter the layer.
Another theory I find compelling is that “Cats” can be seen as an allegory for the LGBTQ community’s hardships during the 1980s. The musical’s characters are outsiders in a human-dominated world, just as LGBTQ people are a minority in a heteronormative society. Remember, the musical premiered in the early ‘80s, when the AIDS crisis was just starting to affect the gay and trans community.
Grizabella, whom the other cats shun until she sings “Memory,” is similar to people who have HIV/AIDS and are shunned by people who aren’t educated enough about the virus. In the same way that knowledge about a condition normalizes the presence of the people it affects, the other cats finally accept Grizabella as one of their own after they understand her better. The idea of an LGBT allegory especially resonates in real life, since many LGBT actors in “Cats” (such as Timothy Scott, Reed Jones and Michael Scott Gregory) all succumbed to AIDS-related illnesses. This idea makes “Cats” a surprisingly relevant show, even today.
“Singing at Astronomical Heights…”
Another criticism I want to dispel is the so-called “mediocre” score. Like every composer, Lloyd Webber has his detractors, but his musicals are still frequently revived and popular among crowds. What Lloyd Webber’s score lacks in complexity (something his contemporary, Stephen Sondheim, indulges in), they compensate in accessibility. The frequently heard motifs throughout the show — chiefly those that are introduced in the overture — make the melodies easy to remember.
Furthermore, the music in “Cats” is more broad and contemporary than that of your typical ‘80s pop opera. Unlike “The Phantom of the Opera” or “Les Misérables,” the score in “Cats” is inspired by opera (“The Ad-Dressing of Cats”), pop (“The Jellicle Ball”), rock (“The Rum Tum Tugger”) and jazz (Mccavity”).
Moreover, I am continually fascinated by the appeal that “Cats” has to children, especially in community theatre productions of it that feature children. Being a show that is so accessible in terms of both music and production value, it’s no wonder why “Cats” has stood the test of time.
Unashamed Felinity
Speaking of production value, “Cats” was an innovative show for its time. It pushed the boundaries for makeup, prosthetics and costumes and featured demanding, animalistic choreography. The wildly flamboyant looks for “Cats” preceded the designs for the fantastical characters of musicals such as “Wicked” and “Bat Boy.” Its marketing and publicity on Broadway were also clever, relying less on star power and heavily on word-of-mouth, mostly by the curiosity surrounding posters of the iconic logo. The original Broadway production won seven Tony Awards and was also the longest-running Broadway musical from 1997 to 2006. “Cats” may sharply divide critics, but the musical has unequivocally left its mark (dare we say … paw?) on musical theatre. I hope the musical’s influence around the world continues to make lasting memories for all those who experience it.Have any other thoughts about “Cats?” Let us know in the comments below...
[post_title] => A Personal Defense of ‘Cats’ [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => personal-defense-cats [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2017-02-15 13:28:42 [post_modified_gmt] => 2017-02-15 18:28:42 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => http://theatrenerds.com/?p=6891 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 9 [filter] => raw ) [12] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 6717 [post_author] => 11 [post_date] => 2017-02-11 10:59:10 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-02-11 15:59:10 [post_content] => [viralQuiz id=29] [post_title] => Quiz: Match The Lyric To The Rodgers & Hammerstein Musical [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => quiz-match-lyric-rodgers-hammerstein-musical [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2017-02-11 10:59:10 [post_modified_gmt] => 2017-02-11 15:59:10 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => http://theatrenerds.com/?p=6717 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 1 [filter] => raw ) [13] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 6828 [post_author] => 440 [post_date] => 2017-02-06 12:36:54 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-02-06 17:36:54 [post_content] => Success is a tricky business. Who hasn’t wished for a magical “how-to” guide at one point or another? In a perfect world, finding a successful career in the arts would be easy, money would be no object, we would all have great hair and maybe I’d finally get that pony I’ve been wishing for. But in spite of how easy fame and notoriety looks, the road is usually paved with hard work. Lin-Manuel Miranda didn’t just come up with “Hamilton” and suddenly find overnight success. He had been toiling away in musical theatre land long before “Hamilton” exploded, working a variety of side jobs and learning every step of the way. What we can take solace in is the number of people who have come before us and achieved their dream, each in their own way. Here are the stories of six musical theatre composers before they were famous:1. Stephen Sondheim
The celebrated songwriter studied piano at a young age, growing up in Pennsylvania after his parents’ divorce. As luck would have it, he became friends with the son of the infamous Oscar Hammerstein. Hammerstein mentored a young Sondheim, giving him honest feedback on his work and allowing him to work as an assistant during one of his theatre productions.
After studying music in school, Sondheim struggled to get his work out there, living with his father and working as a television writer in California. Sondheim eventually returned to New York, and a friend put him in contact with Leonard Bernstein and Jerome Robbins, who were working on a musical version of Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet.” Sondheim joined them, and their collaboration became “West Side Story.” This set Sondheim off on a series of collaborations over the years, which have led to a beautiful body of work.
BKF (Best Known For):
- “West Side Story”
- “Into the Woods”
- “Sunday in the Park With George”
- “Sweeney Todd”
- “A Little Night Music”
2. Lynn Ahrens
Ahrens did not study music in college, nor did she start with a career in theatre. Instead, she studied English and journalism at Syracuse University, and her first career was as a copywriter in advertising. Music was more of a hobby at the time, and Ahrens would write songs on her lunch break.
As luck would have it, a colleague heard her musical stylings and asked her to write a song for a children’s television show, which eventually became a regular gig. This turned into writing for musical theatre when she met Stephen Flaherty at a workshop and they began collaborating.
BKF:
- “Anastasia”
- “Ragtime”
- “Seussical”
- “Once on This Island”
3. Andrew Lloyd Webber
The product of a musical family, Lloyd Webber began school with no aspirations for a life in music or theatre. Instead, he started studying history but eventually felt the pull of musical theatre and dropped out of college to attend the Royal College of Music.
When he was 17, he received a letter (yes, people still wrote those back then) from a young Tim Rice, who was looking for someone to collaborate with. They were commissioned to create a biblical musical, which became the smash success “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat.”
Lloyd Webber participated in a series of successful collaborations before eventually striking out on his own in the ‘80s to create two of his most successful musicals, “Cats” and “Phantom of the Opera,” both inspired by existing literary works.
BKF:
- “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat”
- “Cats”
- “The Phantom of the Opera”
- “Jesus Christ Superstar”
- “Evita”
4. Jonathan Larson
Larson grew up immersed in the arts through his schooling and went on to study acting at Adelphi University, where he began composing music for student productions. After graduation, he took on the life of a true starving artist, working as a part-time waiter with little money while living in a cramped New York City apartment with a slew of roommates. Larson wrote and composed a variety of pieces, but found little success and a lot of disappointment.
Most people would have thrown in the towel, but not Larson. He persisted, collaborating with other artists, writing music for television programming and continuing to develop his own work. This included a musical retelling of the Puccini opera, “La Bohème,” based on Larson’s experience living as a poor artist in New York City. It would go on to become the award-winning musical “Rent.” Sadly, Larson died before the show’s premiere.
BKF:
- “Rent”
- “Tick, Tick…Boom!”
5. Jeanine Tesori
With her parents both in the medical profession, it’s natural that Tesori entered a pre-med program when she started college. But after working at a theatre camp, Tesori knew musical theatre was where she wanted to be. Refusing to get a degree in education as a backup for fear she would quit when the road got rough, Tesori worked as an arranger for the early part of her career, fearing failure if she took a chance on original work.
It wasn’t until her 30s that Tesori finally moved outside her comfort zone and began composing her own work. Her first musical, “Violet,” was well received and started Tesori on a path of acclaimed work that would eventually lead her to a Tony Award for “Fun Home.”
BKF:
- “Shrek”
- “Fun Home”
- “Caroline or Change”
- “Violet”
- “Thoroughly Modern Millie”
6. Alan Menken
Another spawn of a musical family, Menken grew up learning to play piano and creating his own melodies to avoid practicing. After studying music at New York University, Menken was drawn to musical theatre after attending a BMI Musical Theatre workshop. He then spent decades working as an accompanist and writing music for shows that never saw the stage.
Collaborating with Howard Ashman, the two finally found success with the Off-Broadway musical “Little Shop of Horrors.” But Menken’s future success would not come from the stage, as he might have thought. The notoriety he gained from the success of “Little Shop of Horrors” scored him a gig composing songs for the animated films produced by Walt Disney Studios.
Menken wrote music for several successful Disney films, earning him multiple Oscars. It was because of that work that Menken made his Broadway debut with the adapted stage version of “Beauty and the Beast.” He has since split his time between films, television and the stage.
BKF:
- “Little Shop of Horrors”
- “Beauty and the Beast”
- “Little Mermaid”
- “Aladdin”
- “Newsies”
Who are your favorite composers? Have your own success story? Let us know in the comments below...
[post_title] => How These Famous Broadway Composers Got Their Start [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => famous-broadway-composers-got-start [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2017-02-06 12:36:54 [post_modified_gmt] => 2017-02-06 17:36:54 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => http://theatrenerds.com/?p=6828 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [14] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 6804 [post_author] => 11 [post_date] => 2017-02-04 09:12:46 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-02-04 14:12:46 [post_content] => [viralQuiz id=30] [post_title] => Quiz: Can You Guess The Movie Musical Just By A Screenshot? [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => quiz-can-guess-movie-musical-just-screenshot [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2018-07-04 15:10:14 [post_modified_gmt] => 2018-07-04 19:10:14 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => http://theatrenerds.com/?p=6804 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [15] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 6820 [post_author] => 717 [post_date] => 2017-02-03 11:07:48 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-02-03 16:07:48 [post_content] => The phrases “aiming for a Broadway bow in…” or “intended for Broadway” often don’t amount to more than a press release. But when a show has announced a Broadway theatre and opening date and put up its marquee, it’s a pretty safe bet the show will be happening. However, there are a few shows that sadly fell just short of opening their doors. A musical version of “Bus Stop” called “Cherry” had put up ads in Times Square in 1972 but never emerged. A musical version of the movie “Paper Moon” was announced for the Marquis Theater in 1993 and put up its marquee until plans fell through. And then there’s “Rebecca,” which is a whole article in and of itself. Here are three more examples of shows that came so close to a Broadway bow and what led to them being merely could-have-beens:1. “Lone Star Love”
“Lone Star Love,” a country music retelling of Shakespeare’s “The Merry Wives of Windsor” set in the Civil War-era South, was a success when it premiered off-Broadway in late 2004. After some retooling, the show was set to make its Broadway debut on Dec. 3, 2007, at the Belasco Theater. However, during its pre-Broadway engagement at Seattle’s 5th Avenue Theater, the show got mixed-to-negative reviews and suddenly scrapped its Broadway plans. So, what changed between Off-Broadway and Broadway? Two words: Randy Quaid.
Quaid, most famous for the role of “Cousin Eddie” in the “Vacation” films, was cast in the lead role of Colonel Falstaff. Quaid and his wife/manager Evi Quaid were allegedly as tyrannical as any Shakespearean villain. Quaid felt at liberty to change lines, blocking and lyrics anytime he saw fit. There were also several arguments over design elements, including the color of his wig and the size of his codpiece. The Quaids’ behavior became more erratic until it got so out of hand that the producers decided to simply close the show.
All 26 actors involved in the defunct production filed charges with Actor’s Equity against the Quaids, claiming, among other things, that he hit an actor several times on the head during a performance, made sexually suggestive comments to cast members and claimed that any actor who made direct eye contact with him onstage would be fired. Actor’s Equity found that the show was forced to close because of the odd and abusive behavior of Quaid, thus depriving the actors of their jobs. Quaid was forced to pay a fine of $81,572, which is a two-week’s salary for the cast and crew, and was banned from the union for life, according to the Backstage.
2. “The Mambo Kings”
Oscar Hijuelos’ Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, “The Mambo Kings Play Songs of Love” told the story of two brothers from Cuba who come to New York City in 1949 trying to become recording artists. The book had been turned into a film in 1992 starring Armand Assante and Antonio Banderas in his first English-speaking role.
A few years after the movie was released, the film’s director, Arne Glimcher, began working on a stage version that he planned on directing, writing the lyrics to and co-authoring the book with Hijuelos. In 2002, it was rumored to be coming together, with the possibility of Banderas starring alongside Jon Secada and Jennifer Lopez.
Talks apparently fell through, and it wasn’t until 2004 that producer Daryl Roth and her son, future Jujamcyn President Jordan Roth, announced that they would team up for the first time to produce the show. Pre-Broadway tryouts were set for May 31, 2005, at San Francisco’s Golden Gate Theater in preparation for the Broadway premiere in July 20 at the Broadway Theatre. Esai Morales (“NYPD Blue”) and Jamie Camil (Rogelio on “Jane the Virgin) were cast as the Castillo brothers. Other cast members included Cuban music star Albita, Christiane Noll and David Alan Grier, who replaced star Billy Dee Williams when he dropped out due to a hip condition.
However, things started looking grim when the show opened to mostly negative reviews in San Francisco. The producers frantically began looking for several show doctors to help with the book, music and direction. While names such as Tommy Tune and Maury Yeston were rumored, the producers eventually hired playwright David Ives to help with the book, Jason Robert Brown to help with the music and Jerry Mitchell to help with the direction. But before the new creative team could even begin work, the producers announced there was no way to meet the current Broadway schedule and decided to close the show out of town.
3. “Busker Alley”
It’s not uncommon for a show to change its name during its journey to Broadway. “Away We Go!” became “Oklahoma!,” “Elaborate Lives” became “Aida,” “Feeling Electric” became “Next to Normal,” etc. But few shows have had as many name changes as “Busker Alley.
It started in 1969 when the famous Disney songwriter brothers Robert and Richard Sherman (“Mary Poppins,” “The Jungle Book”) and Disney scriptwriter A.J. Carothers (“The Happiest Millionaire”) wrote a musical version of the 1938 film “St. Martin’s Lane” called “Piccadilly.” It told the story of a simple busker (street performer) who takes a younger woman under his wing and teaches her the art of busking.
However, nothing came of it until 1982, when they began rewriting the show with the new title, “Blow Us a Kiss.” Still, nothing would happen until 1991, when it was announced that Tommy Tune was attached to the project and yet another new title, “Busker Alley.” Initially announced for a May 1992 Broadway opening with a pre-Broadway tryout at Boston’s Colonial Theater, it wasn’t until 1995 that the show got underway with a 16-city tour before heading to the Great White Way.
While touring, the show would go through two more name changes. A survey conducted by the producers, Fran and Barry Weissler, revealed that most people didn’t know what a busker was, so they changed the name to “Stage Door Charley.” Then, for some reason, it was changed about a month later to “Buskers.” Finally, it reverted back to “Busker Alley.”
I can personally attest to this. When I was a child, I was taken to see this show by my grandparents. My ticket said “Stage Door Charley,” my program said “Busker Alley” and my souvenir book said “Buskers.”
After many rewrites, cut songs and cast replacements, the show was to open at the St. James Theater on Nov. 16, 1995. On Oct. 1, however, star Tommy Tune broke his foot during a performance in Tampa, Florida, the last tour stop before Broadway. While Tommy Steele and Gregory Hines were mentioned as possible replacements, the producers decided to end the run.
In 2006, a concert of the show starring Jim Dale would lead to another attempt to bring the show to Broadway, but that production was met with its own set of troubles before it was abandoned.
Are there any shows that came close to a Broadway run but ultimately stopped short that you wanted to see? Ever experience anything like this? Let us know in the comments below...
[post_title] => 3 Times The Marquee Went Up But The Show Did Not [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => 3-times-marquee-went-up-but-show-did-not [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2018-04-22 10:51:34 [post_modified_gmt] => 2018-04-22 14:51:34 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => http://theatrenerds.com/?p=6820 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 6 [filter] => raw ) [16] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 6794 [post_author] => 9 [post_date] => 2017-02-02 09:26:34 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-02-02 14:26:34 [post_content] => With every new year, there comes an obligation to reluctantly pursue a resolution. January is always an ambitious month, but most resolutions seem to wither away by February. Stop picking a resolution that you view as a punishment, and pick a resolution that will feed your theatre nerd soul! Here is a list of resolutions tailored to theatre nerds. Pick one, pick all, but we think you’ll find something that interests you (that doesn’t involve a pricey gym membership)!1. Make an effort to see a live performance every month
These performances might range from middle school performances to Broadway shows. You’d be amazed at how much theatre is happening around you (and at an affordable price)!
2. Read a new script every month
Theatre is great onstage, but reading scripts allows you to direct the plays on the stage in your mind and look at the material in a new way.
3. Find and memorize a new audition piece each month
From different genres and styles to musical theatre, an actor can never have enough audition material. 2017 is the year to becoming an auditioning beast!
4. Write a play
Whether your play lasts 10 minutes or is full-length, just write something! Everyone is a writer, and chances are good you have something interesting to write about. Learn how to format your script properly, and if you feel good about it, enter it into different competitions! At the very least, you’ll learn to appreciate playwrights a little more.
5. Learn about your craft
Pick a book you haven’t read and become an expert! There are thousands of books on design, performance, improvisation, writing, directing, dramaturgy, theatre history, etc. Find one that interests you, or finally read that one book all your friends say you need to read.
6. Study someone’s life each month
Essentially, this means Google-stalk celebrities in theatre and film whom you’re interested in learning more about. We all like to learn about actors and their rise to fame, but there are so many other people who make the magic happen. Find out as much as you can about them. Where did they go to school? What other projects have they worked on? Where are they from? When did they get started in theatre/film? Their stories and lives might interest and inspire you!
7. Explore different jobs in theatre
Theatre muggles think the only jobs available in theatre include acting, building sets and directing. As theatre wizards, we know that’s not the case. There are countless jobs in the world of theatre that many theatre nerds haven’t even heard about. Make it a priority to learn about a new job each month. Ask your friends and other theatre professionals about fun and interesting jobs they’ve seen in theatre.
8. Learn about schools with unique theatre programs
We all know about the big-name theatre schools, but what about the ones we don’t hear about? Just because a school isn’t publicized as much as Juilliard or NYU doesn’t mean it couldn’t be the perfect fit for you. Whether you’re working on an undergraduate degree, graduate degree or hoping to take individual classes, knowing schools could help you make this decision. Check out the best school in your state and then see whether you can find the best theatre school in your surrounding states.
9. Learn about theatre in different countries
America is certainly a theatre and film powerhouse, but we can sometimes forget that every country has its own unique spin on theatre. Check out theatre venues, learn about famous playwrights and actors and see what else you can learn. You could be an American ambassador for culturally diverse theatre.
10. See what classes are available near you (improv, writing, acting, woodworking)
Regardless of where you are in your lifetime theatre journey, it’s never too early or too late to take a class. There are likely community classes or college-level classes near you that you can take. Theatres usually have some kind of education program for students of all ages, so look up your local theatre. You could even sign up for a class at Home Depot and learn how to work with tools and other building materials.
11. Boost your special skills (dialects, stage combat, dance, instruments)
Do you struggle with the “Special Skills” portion of your resume? Maybe you have some special skills, but you want more! Pick a skill you wish you had and learn how to do it by watching tutorials on YouTube. Buy a book that will teach you how. Sign up for classes and learn from a professional. You’d be amazed at how fast you can boost your special skills.
12. Perform for free in an atypical location
Grab some of your theatre friends and put on a show for whoever wants to show up! Perform in a park, parking lot, bar, basement, warehouse or street corner — anywhere works! Write a script and make it a world premiere, or put on an improvised show. You can advertise for free with the wonder that is social media. You might team up with a business or charitable organization and make it an event. The possibilities are endless! You have so much power to create theatre, and you don’t even need to spend a single penny.
13. Build something using tools and designs
Maybe you consider yourself handy. Maybe you’ve never held a hammer. Regardless of your experience with construction, pick a project that requires designs and tools and build something! The task seems daunting when you get started, but you’ll feel so accomplished when you’re looking at your new shelves or birdhouse. We can’t all be on a tech crew all the time, but that doesn’t mean we can’t still develop and hone our technical skills!
14. Watch a film adaptation of a play or musical
With all the theatre-to-film adaptations floating around out there, we have no excuse for not watching them! On your next movie night or Netflix binge, watch some plays or musicals turned into movies. You’ll learn more about the plot, and you’ll be able to join in the conversation when your friends start discussing the play or musical.
15. Get new headshots and boost your resume
16. Discover a new theatre company each month
Every theatre company has a distinctive purpose and mission statement. Learn about theatre companies near you and why they produce theatre. You’ll be amazed at the diverse productions and companies in your location. You could even go one step further and see a show produced by that theatre company. You’ll have a lot more respect for what it’s doing when you know why it’s doing it.
17. Record everything on social media!
If you decide to follow these resolutions, you’ll be a new kind of theatre nerd. Infect your friends with your nerdiness by sharing your journey online. Even better, let your non-theatre friends see all the cool stuff you’re doing and encourage them to do the same. By expressing your experiences, you can help advocate for theatre and perhaps inspire others to do the same!
This is the first in a series of articles that will help you reach these resolutions. Check back soon for monthly updates and articles on how 2017 will be your year to become the ultimate theatre nerd!
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[post_content] => Some of the most well-known musicals to English-speaking audiences did not always premiere in English. For example, did you know that the original French production of “Les Misérables” premiered in Paris in 1980? Foreign-language musicals from Europe often have the privilege of being performed throughout Europe in the language of each respective country.
Since North America often misses the boat on these shows, here are 11 foreign-language musicals from the other side of the pond:
1. “Roméo et Juliette: de la Haine á l’Amour”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7gh81PYERlM Gerard Presgurvic’s French musical, based on Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet,” premiered in Paris in 2001. It was the breakout show for French singers Damien Sargue and Cecilia Cara. The song “Les rois du monde” was a pop hit in both France and Belgium. The musical has been produced all over Europe, including a 2013 production in the play’s setting of Verona.2. “Notre Dame de Paris”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lefbtf5jjbg Another massively popular French musical, this show premiered in Paris in 1998. It spawned the single “Belle,” the best-selling 1998 pop song in both France and Belgium. Although it never played in New York, an English-language production played in Las Vegas in 2000.3. “Monte Cristo”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DOmK2PnN0II One of the only Russian musicals to be internationally recognized, this musical is based on the Alexandre Dumas novel, “The Count of Monte Cristo.” After opening in Moscow in 2008, the show toured China and South Korea. Like the aforementioned musicals, “Monte Cristo” follows the pop-opera style of several musicals based on classic novels.4. “Mozart, l’opera rock”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KtTlVYG9o8Y Based on the life of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, this musical premiered in Paris in 2009 before opening in Belgium and Switzerland. The musical’s song “Tatoue-moi” was a No. 1 hit in France in 2009. A proposed Broadway run of the musical has yet to occur.5. “Rebecca”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B-SZOwrhTds Based on the novel by Daphne du Maurier, this German-language musical premiered in Vienna in 2006 and was later produced in Budapest, Helsinki and Tokyo. Aside from several workshop performances and West End readings, the musical languished in Broadway development hell, but its producers now aim for a 2017 Broadway opening.6. “Elisabeth”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pazuQ--rYls Based on the life of Empress Elisabeth of Austria, this German-language musical opened in Vienna in 1992 and has since been produced in Tokyo, Osaka, Budapest and Seoul. Having been seen by 10 million patrons, it is the most successful German-language musical of all time.7. “Soldier of Orange”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v7_146DNskE Based on the 1977 Dutch film of the same name, this musical premiered in Katwijk in 2010. The musical, which takes place during World War II, was first produced in a former airbase that was converted into a theatre.8. “Hoy No Me Puedo Levantar”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1euCWiPGzqQ Premiering in Madrid in April 2005, this Spanish-language jukebox musical is based on the songs of José María Cano and Nacho Cano (both ex-members of Mecano). In a similar plot to “Rent,” this musical is about a group of struggling artists in Madrid battling with drugs and the AIDS crisis. It has since played in Mexico City and Barcelona.9. “Kristina from Duvemala”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a2idVI73ais Written by Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus (ex-members of ABBA), this musical is based on Vilhelm Moberg’s book series about a poor Swedish family that immigrates to the United States. After premiering in Malmö, Sweden, in 1995, the musical had a concert performance in Minneapolis the next year before it eventually moved to Carnegie Hall in 2009. It has also been produced in Gothenburg, Helsinki and Jessheim.10. “Hamlet”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OI6Ldc8ExLg This Czech-language version of the classic Shakespearean tragedy premiered in Prague in 1999 and closed there in 2012. The rock musical’s score has been compared to “Jesus Christ Superstar,” and the show has also been produced in Seoul.11. “14-18”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m75ImoH9Cgk This Flemish musical about World War I premiered in Mechelen, Belgium, in April 2014. The Nekkerhal, the venue of the premiere, satisfies the gargantuan demands of this show, which include a 135-ton moving platform, 11 enormous set pieces and a cast of 99 actors.Think of a musical that we left out? Let us know in the comments below...
[post_title] => 11 Foreign-Language Musicals You Need To Hear [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => 11-foreign-language-musicals-you-need-to-hear [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2017-01-31 09:48:51 [post_modified_gmt] => 2017-01-31 14:48:51 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => http://theatrenerds.com/?p=6623 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 26 [filter] => raw ) [18] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 6639 [post_author] => 12 [post_date] => 2017-01-28 08:00:02 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-01-28 13:00:02 [post_content] => [viralQuiz id=27]Try Another Quiz: Can We Guess What Green Room Personality You Are?
[post_title] => Quiz: Can We Guess Which Character Type You Are? [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => quiz-can-guess-character-type [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2018-10-07 11:11:19 [post_modified_gmt] => 2018-10-07 15:11:19 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => http://theatrenerds.com/?p=6639 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 2 [filter] => raw ) [19] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 6606 [post_author] => 712 [post_date] => 2017-01-25 09:05:44 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-01-25 14:05:44 [post_content] => Auditioning for a musical can be one of the most harrowing processes in the world, especially the singing portion. However, if you prepare ahead of time, it doesn’t need to be scary. Here are four tips for acing your next vocal audition:1. Choose the Right Song
For a musical audition, this is the most important call. Sometimes, casting will make it easy and assign material to sing, but more often than not, it’s your decision.
If you’re a veteran to the musical theatre audition circuit, you will probably have an audition book. This is a selection of songs (ranging in style) that you know well and can sing at the drop of a hat, usually kept in one overstuffed binder. It should be a varied repertoire that you really relate to. Look through it (or scour Google and music sheets if you don’t have one) and find the song you think fits the style of the show you’re going for. Again, be certain that you connect to your choice as a person.
Try to be wary of learning a new song, unless you have no choice. It’s best that you know the material like the back of your hand so when you get in the room and your nerves kick in, you can still let your personality shine through. After all, showing your personality gives you a leg up on your competition — no one else is like you!
2. Rehearse Your Heart out
This sounds like an obvious one, but many people don’t realize that to get work, you have to do a lot of work! Treat the audition like you would a performance because it’s essentially a chance to do what you love. You want casting to see you at your best, so be your best.
A Broadway performer once told me that they treat all of their songs like monologues. They write them out, mark them up with objectives and even read them aloud as they would a monologue. At their core, most songs are inner monologues. People in musicals sing their thoughts because they cannot speak them. So, handling a song like a monologue can help you discover new moments.
In preparation, lots of performers will enlist a vocal coach to assist them with their audition. This is obviously costly, so try to only do this when you feel like you really need it. It’s instrumental to hear the way your songs sounds on the piano and to get your teacher’s feedback on your song cut. Get the most out of your time together by recording your session, if it’s OK with your coach.
Sometimes it’s also useful to hold a rehearsal where you imagine yourself in the room. You can set up your room in an audition format and ask a friend to watch, or simply close your eyes and envision that you are in that space. While singing, you are hopefully going to be in another world, but it truly can help to anticipate your nerves. Go ahead, try it! You’ll be surprised to see how tense it can make you feel even thinking about being there. If you can curb your anxieties during that rehearsal, you’ll be more comfortable and connected in the room.
3. Choose the Right Clothes
One of the biggest ways to make an impression is with your choice of clothing. You want to stand out, of course, but that doesn’t mean you need to throw on a sequin top or neon-colored sneakers.
Attempt to pick an outfit that is the essence of the role. For example, if you’re auditioning for “Newsies,” you don’t need to rent an authentic vest and pair of knickers from 1899. Show up in a nice button-down shirt. Or, let’s say you’re auditioning for the role of Anna in “The King and I.” There’s no need to run around like a maniac searching for a hoop skirt when you can simply wear a nice dress. Don’t make it too hard for yourself!
Basically, you don’t want to give casting any reason not to hire you. Spoon-feed it to them by wearing something that gives off the vibe of your character but is already in your closet. Ask a trusted pal for approval!
Overall, choose something that looks good and makes you feel good. And please, for their sake, don’t show up in any type of costume — unless you’re trying to get in the “bad audition” montage on a reality show.
4. Use the Time in the Waiting Room
We’ve all been uneasily seated outside the audition room waiting for our turn. We steal glances at our fellow auditioners (who look eerily similar to ourselves), press our ears against the door to listen to them sing and stare through our sheet music, relentlessly hoping it will overtake our brains. However, wasting your time in the waiting room with stressful acts like this is detrimental to the process.
Instead, get to your audition 10 minutes before your time slot (any earlier could annoy casting, since waiting spaces are usually small and they don’t want a lot of people sitting around) and loosen up. Find the bathroom, splash water on your face, do a quick vocal warm-up and, most of all, relax. The more laid-back you are, the easier your audition will be. Reading advice from a performer you admire right before you go can also be beneficial, so have it cued up on your phone!
Bonus Tip: After you go, let it go! You’ve done the best you can, so don’t bother obsessing over the outcome. What will be will be!
[post_title] => 4 Ways To Nail Your Next Vocal Audition [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => 4-ways-to-nail-your-next-vocal-audition [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2017-01-25 09:19:53 [post_modified_gmt] => 2017-01-25 14:19:53 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => http://theatrenerds.com/?p=6606 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [20] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 6663 [post_author] => 11 [post_date] => 2017-01-24 09:05:04 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-01-24 14:05:04 [post_content] => Nuggets of wisdom can be found in the best of Broadway. Theatre is constantly reminding us to make change, never give up and embrace our most unique traits. With a new year upon us, we’ve compiled a list of inspirational quotes plucked from your favorite musicals.Here are 14 mantras to take with you into 2017:
You can change the world if you change your mind. (Kinky Boots)
Even the darkest night will end and the sun will rise! (Les Misérables)
Being true to yourself never goes out of style. (Legally Blonde)
Opportunity is not a lengthy visitor. (Into the Woods)
I’m through accepting limits ‘cause someone says they’re so. Some things I cannot change but ‘til I try, I’ll never know. (Wicked)
If we’re always starting over every brand new morning, then we’re always starting out with the end in doubt. (If/Then)
Look inside yourself, Simba. You are more than what you have become. (The Lion King)
She warned him not to be deceived by appearances, for beauty is found within (Beauty and the Beast)
Just be who you wanna be. (Kinky Boots)
Climb every mountain, ford every stream, follow every rainbow till you find your dream. (The Sound of Music)
Who cares what happens when we’re dead? We shouldn’t think that far ahead. The only latter day that matters is tomorrow. (The Book of Mormon)
I’ve heard it said that people come into our lives for a reason, bringing something we must learn, and we are led to those who help us most to grow. (Wicked)
Forget regret, or life is yours to miss. No other path, no other way, no day but today. (Rent)
Look, a new day has begun… (Cats)
Have another favorite inspirational quote from a Broadway musical? Share it in the comments below...
[post_title] => 14 Inspirational Musical Theatre Quotes For The New Year [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => 14-inspirational-musical-theatre-quotes-new-year [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2017-01-24 09:15:09 [post_modified_gmt] => 2017-01-24 14:15:09 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => http://theatrenerds.com/?p=6663 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 24 [filter] => raw ) [21] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 6330 [post_author] => 391 [post_date] => 2017-01-22 13:01:17 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-01-22 18:01:17 [post_content] => The Broadway runs of “Beauty and the Beast” and “The Little Mermaid” have shown that these tales as old as time can be part of our (Broadway) world. Even outside of the Disney canon, “Shrek” spawned a successful Broadway musical that is now a popular choice for community theatre groups. The popularity of animated films throughout American cinematic history leaves us wondering what other animated films might do well on the Great White Way.Here are 10 animated movies that should be made into Broadway musicals:
1. “The Emperor’s New Groove”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uT4ySwoh27Q One of the more underrated post-Disney Renaissance films, “The Emperor’s New Groove” contains unforgettable characters, scenes, dialogue and two awesome songs written by Sting. Originally called “Kingdom of the Sun,” the film’s plot initially included the evil witch Yzma wanting to capture the sun to retain her youth. Although “Snuff Out the Light” (sung by Eartha Kitt) was cut from the film version, perhaps it can get another chance onstage.2. “Cats Don’t Dance”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L1eBuuJqc44 This long-forgotten 1997 film was Gene Kelly’s last film project before he died. The movie is about Danny, a feline newcomer to Hollywood who aims to get better storylines for animal actors. It features songs by Randy Newman, best known for his Pixar collaborations.3. “Quest for Camelot”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pHDkmINbefQ This 1998 movie, based on the novel “The King’s Damosel,” is about a young woman who seeks to return the sword Excalibur to its stone to restore peace to Camelot. The songs are written by David Foster and Carole Bayer Sager, who were both massively successful songwriters throughout the ‘80s and ‘90s.4. “Hercules”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pa0lMzaljTk One of the few movies from the Disney Renaissance to not have its own stage version, “Hercules” fuses Gospel styles with more pop-leaning show-tune sounds. Aside from its catchy score, there’s enormous potential to brilliantly stage Hercules’ fight scenes with those gargantuan monsters!5. “The Prince of Egypt”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=biVEtQQ_9mo Dreamworks’ first cel animated film contains songs written by Broadway legend Stephen Schwarz. A whitewashing controversy cancelled a stage reading of the movie’s planned musical adaptation early last year. However, the increase of shows for people of color (such as “The Color Purple” revival and “Hamilton) hopefully boosts “The Prince of Egypt’s” chance of an eventual Broadway run.6. “Spirited Away”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ByXuk9QqQkk This Studio Ghibli modern classic is the highest-grossing Japanese film in history and has all the makings of a hit show: character development, romance, a balance of comedy and drama and a large ensemble. With the popularity of Frank Wildhorn’s “Death Note” musical in Japan and Korea, a Broadway adaptation of “Spirited Away” would send Ghibli fans flocking worldwide to see it.7. “Mulan”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZSS5dEeMX64 Another Disney Renaissance film lacking its own Broadway version, “Mulan” benefits from powerful songs such as “Reflection” and “I’ll Make a Man Out of You.” Its unique story and setting help it stand out among other Disney films. Like “The Prince of Egypt,” Mulan would be another great opportunity to showcase racial diversity in musical theatre.8. “The Swan Princess”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SnKDXTckacs Loosely based on Tchaikovsky’s “Swan Lake” ballet, this film featured the singing voices of musical theatre veterans Liz Callaway and David Zippel. It’s one of the more notable non-Disney-animated romances of the ‘90s and has music similar in style to that of Alan Menken and other great Disney composers.9. “Pocahontas”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pk33dTVHreQ Here is yet another Disney Renaissance film not yet to have a Broadway run. The “Pocahontas” soundtrack features classic Disney songs such as “Colors of the Wind,” which won Menken and Schwartz an Oscar at the 1996 Academy Awards.10. “Coraline”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LO3n67BQvh0 Based on the Neil Gaiman novel of the same name, this movie is known for its creepy, visually stunning scenes. Coraline, a young girl who discovers an idealized parallel world, realizes her fantasy has a dark secret. With a lack of horror musicals on Broadway, the cult status of “Coraline” could perhaps start a new theatrical trend in New York.Did we leave out your favorite animated film? Let us know in the comments below...
[post_title] => 10 Animated Movies That Should Be Broadway Musicals [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => 10-animated-movies-broadway-musicals [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2017-01-22 13:25:10 [post_modified_gmt] => 2017-01-22 18:25:10 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => http://theatrenerds.com/?p=6330 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 9 [filter] => raw ) [22] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 6576 [post_author] => 717 [post_date] => 2017-01-20 11:44:19 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-01-20 16:44:19 [post_content] => It’s that time again, when everyone has a song on their lips, a healthy dose of anxiety and is patiently awaiting the big man (or woman) to make that famous list and check it twice. No, silly, Christmas time is over! We’re talking about the high school spring musical season! Students around the country will soon be choosing audition songs, wildly speculating about what this year’s show might be and eagerly awaiting that special day when the cast list is posted.So, we thought it’d be fun to ask some Broadway folk what their senior year musical was and what part they were cast as. We were able to talk to the cast of “Something Rotten!” right before closing night on Jan. 1.
Here’s what they had to say:
Rob McClure (Nick Bottom): Charley in “Where’s Charley?” McClure would brilliantly play Charley again for “Encores!” in 2011. Speaking of senior musicals, he is also responsible for writing one graduating class’s senior show. He wrote the book, music and lyrics for “The Bagel Factory,” about his time working in a bagel store during high school. Josh Grisetti (Nigel Bottom): Curly in “Oklahoma!” Adam Pascal (Shakespeare): N/A Not surprisingly, Pascal was in a band in high school and devoted his time to that. Leslie Kritzer (Bea): Maggie in “A Chorus Line” Brad Oscar (Nostradamus): Noah in “Two By Two” Catherine Brunell (Portia): Peter Pan in “Peter Pan” In another example of why you should always be nice to everyone in the business, the man who would fly her in “Peter Pan” in high school would later become the same man in charge of flying her in “Mary Poppins” on Broadway. David Beach (Bother Jeremiah): Bobby Van Husen in “The Boy Friend” Edward Hibbert (Lord Clapham): Fagin in “Oliver!” “And I was brilliant!” he said. Gerry Vichi (Shylock): N/A However, he did do plays in high school. André Ward (Minstrel): The Beast in “Beauty and the Beast…Really?” “That was the name of it, I swear! It was terrible!” he said. It should be noted that Ward then proceeded to perform most of the opening number, full out, from memory. David Hibbard (Francis Flute/Ensemble): Leading Man in “Déjà Vu” “It was a revue of all the best numbers from the last 10 years of the high school shows,” he said. Jenny Hill (Ensemble): Reno Sweeney in “Anything Goes” Stacey Todd Holt (Peter Quince/Ensemble): Jamie Lockhart in “The Robber Bridegroom” Aaron Kubrick (Robin/Ensemble): Marryin’ Sam in “Li’l Abner” Beth Johnson Nicely (Ensemble): N/A “I did dance and cheerleading and show choir,” she said. Aleks Pevec (Ensemble): Lt. Cable in “South Pacific” Angie Schworer (Ensemble): N/A She only did her sophomore-year play and was a bird and understudied Alice in “Alice in Wonderland.” “I always believed I didn’t get Alice because I had braces,” she said. Eric Sciotto (Ensemble): Billy Bigelow in “Carousel” “They were supposed to do ‘42nd Street’ because there were a bunch of us who could tap. Then, they did ‘Carousel?’ I was not happy,” he said. Brian Shepard (Yorick/Ensemble): Nathan Detroit in “Guys and Dolls” Tracee Beazer (Ensemble): N/A “They did ‘Oliver!’ and I was cast as Nancy, but I couldn’t commit to the schedule because of another commitment. I did choreograph the show, though!” she said. Brendon Stimson (Ensemble): The Beast in “Disney’s Beauty and the Beast” Brian Ogilvie (Tom Snout/Ensemble): Sid Sorokin in “The Pajama Game” Tari Kelly (Ensemble): Guenevere in “Camelot” Leah Hofmann (Ensemble): Purity in “Anything Goes” Max Clayton (Ensemble): N/A “I played basketball all through high school. I didn’t get into theatre until my third year of college,” he said. Elizabeth Earley (Swing): N/A “I only auditioned for the senior year musical,” she said. “They were doing ‘Grease,’ and I got the part of Miss Lynch but decided not to do it. I wouldn’t be in a show until my freshman year at NYU, which was ‘Camelot’ and I was Lady Anne.” Eric Giancola (Swing/Dance Captain): Mr. Mushnik in “Little Shop of Horrors” Callie Carter (Swing): N/A “I was homeschooled, but I did do community theatre. So my ‘senior year,’ I was in the ensemble of ‘A Chorus Line,’” she said. Matt Allen (Swing): Benny Southstreet in “Guys and Dolls”BONUS ANSWERS!
Maggie Lakis (Bea on National Tour): Kim MacAfee in “Bye Bye Birdie” “It was double cast, so when I wasn’t Kim, I was Ursula,” she said. Tony Manger (Company Manager): Cupid in “Story Theater” Charlie Underhill (Production Stage Manager): Abner Yokum in “Li’l Abner” M.K. Flynt (Stage Manager): N/A “I didn’t act in the senior musical, but I did stage manage it! It was ‘South Pacific,’” she said. Peyton Becker (Stage Manager): Jo in “Little Women” Patrick Wetzel (Assistant Stage Manager): Judas in “Godspell” Terri Purcell (Wardrobe Supervisor): Sister in “Damn Yankees” She also did the costumes, naturally. Lolly Totero (Principal Dresser): Miss Adelaide in “Guys and Dolls” Jack Scott (Principal Dresser): Adam in “The Apple Tree” He also choreographed.There you have it! Is your high school doing any of these shows for your senior musical? Did anything on this list surprise you? Let us know in the comments below...
[post_title] => We Asked The Cast Of “Something Rotten!” What Musicals They Did In High School [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => asked-cast-something-rotten-musicals-high-school [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2017-01-20 11:45:30 [post_modified_gmt] => 2017-01-20 16:45:30 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => http://theatrenerds.com/?p=6576 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 1 [filter] => raw ) [23] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 6552 [post_author] => 12 [post_date] => 2017-01-19 09:09:26 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-01-19 14:09:26 [post_content] => Putting up a show is a lot of hard work — and requires money. Once the costumes, lights and stage have been paid for, people often forget about the promotional aspect of the production and simply don’t know how to market on a shoestring budget.Here are some ways you can advertise your next project with little to no money:
1. Fliers
This may seem obvious, but don’t underestimate the effectiveness of a flier with a great photo to promote a show. Plaster your town or city with them, and let their magic go to work.
Cost: Roughly 10 cents a page for copies at Staples.
2. Postcards
Postcards are great for many reasons. First, you can mail them to important people you’d like in your audience. Second, you can put stacks of them in shops and cafes near the theatre to draw in audience members you don’t know.
Cost: Gotprint.com offers 500 postcards for under $25.
3. Stickers
Have small stickers made up with your show’s logo, dates and links, and ask a local coffee shop whether it would be willing to stick them on their lids in exchange for a free ad in your show’s program. Each time patrons sip from their coffee cup, they’ll be face-to-face with your show’s cute and effective ad.
Cost: On Vistaprint.com, stickers are roughly 12 cents apiece. You can get 240 stickers for under $30.
4. Podcast
Find a local podcast that’s about the arts or the happenings in your town, and ask them to do a segment on your show in exchange for comps to the show.
Cost: The price of a couple tickets.
5. Facebook Ads
The good news is, you can choose how much money you’ll put into an ad on social media, so you can spend a little or a lot depending on your budget.
Cost: Up to you!
6. Blog
Does someone you know blog about theatre or local events in your area? Get them to blog about the show by inviting them to a dress rehearsal.
Cost: Free
7. Social Media
Even if you don’t personally have a lot of followers, you’ll cover a lot of ground if you get everyone in your cast and crew to post about the show on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook. Remember to post pictures that will stir intrigue or make people laugh.
Cost: Free
8. RT Contest
Post about your show on Twitter and turn it into a contest by asking people to retweet. One lucky RT will win a pair of tickets to the show. If you can swing it, throw in some swag, too! Who doesn’t love a free T-shirt?
Cost: Free
9. A Bigger Cast
OK, so this isn’t always feasible, but the bigger the cast you have, the more people will be in your audience. That’s why sometimes it’s beneficial to have a Cast A and a Cast B for longer-running shows — not to mention understudies.
Cost: Free
10. Guest Roles
Is there a part in your show that can be done by a special guest audience member? Give away a small part through social media contests or audience raffles to raise money for the theatre. You’ll get more buzz from patrons who come to see their friend play the butler in one random scene.
Cost: Free
11. Website
Use sites such as Wix.com to create a free website with all your show’s information. Include fun details about the cast and production process. You can also use the site to promote all your fun contests and ticket giveaways.
Cost: Free - $20
12. Community Service
Have your cast volunteer to do some community work while getting the word out about your theatre and its production. One great way to do this is to offer a free acting class to kids in the area taught by members of the cast or the director. It always feels good to give back to the community — and adding some butts in the seats doesn’t feel bad, either.
Cost: Free
Do you have any tips to promote on a budget? Add them in the comments below...
[post_title] => How To Promote Your Show On A Shoestring Budget [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => how-to-promote-your-show-on-shoestring-budget [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2017-08-06 20:17:35 [post_modified_gmt] => 2017-08-07 00:17:35 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => http://theatrenerds.com/?p=6552 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 3 [filter] => raw ) [24] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 6535 [post_author] => 391 [post_date] => 2017-01-18 11:35:59 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-01-18 16:35:59 [post_content] => [show-logos orderby='none' category='broadway-basic-tees' 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='200,218'] Streaming services such as Spotify can increase certain musicals’ profiles by making their cast albums more easily accessible. In fact, the “Hamilton” cast album was streamed 500 million times in 2016. Unfortunately, not every cast recording has the privilege of getting exposure through Spotify, often because of record label issues or the album being out of print.Because several shows are long forgotten this way, here is a list of 11 cast recordings Spotify has yet to acquire:
1. “The Magic Show” (1974 Original Broadway Cast)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O8lPyY8hEmw The 35th longest-running Broadway musical, this Stephen Schwartz show starred Cheryl Barnes (“Hair”), David Ogden Stiers (“Beauty and the Beast)” and Dale Soules (“Orange Is the New Black”) in some of their earliest roles. The show was nominated for two Tony Awards in 1975. Although there is a Canadian filmed production, the musical has yet to be revived on Broadway. GET ON AMAZON2. “The Pirate Queen” (2007 Original Broadway Cast)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OPxjy1NIgUQ Based on a 1986 historical novel by Morgan Llewellyn, this show was written by Claude-Michel Schönberg and Alain Boublil (“Les Misérables”) and starred Stephanie J. Block and Hadley Fraser. It opened in 2007 but closed after 85 performances. The cast recording has since gone out of print. GET ON AMAZON3. “21 Chump Street” (2014 Original Radio Cast)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v_LrnWWhch8 Written by Lin-Manuel Miranda, this 15-minute musical was based on an NPR episode about a high schooler who is arrested after selling drugs to impress a police officer. The mini musical has been performed in Brooklyn, London and Sydney. GET ON AMAZON4. “Big Fish” (2013 Original Broadway Cast)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bHoNw263X50 Andrew Lippa’s adaptation of the 2003 Tim Burton film ran for 98 performances in late 2013. Norbert Leo Butz received universal acclaim for his performance as Edward Bloom. The musical has since been produced in Victoria, Munich and Orlando. GET ON AMAZON5. “Sail Away” (1961 Original Broadway Cast)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MZDiE9iY3j4 Noel Coward’s penultimate Broadway musical was a star vehicle for future Broadway legend Elaine Stritch. Stritch created the role of Mimi Paragon, a cruise director who has to put up with annoying passengers. She reprised the role in a 1999 Carnegie Hall production. GET ON AMAZON6. “Starmites” (1989 Original Broadway Cast)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kvRLrtOdsqo This unusual musical opened on Broadway in 1989, closed after 60 performances and was nominated for six Tony Awards. “Starmites,” which is about a girl who creates a fantasy world from various comic book characters, is a popular choice among junior-high audiences. GET ON AMAZON7. “Triumph of Love” (1998 Original Broadway Cast)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rzij9bdpHhQ This musical, based on a 1732 French play, ran for 85 performances and starred Betty Buckley, who earned a Tony nomination as Hesione. The musical follows the pop-opera style of “Miss Saigon” and “Jekyll and Hyde.” GET ON AMAZON8. “Bombay Dreams” (2002 Original London Cast)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rPdBCxXRPw4 This Bollywood-themed musical mixes original songs with tunes from popular Bollywood films. After opening in London in 2002 and Broadway in 2004, the North American tour began in February 2006. GET ON AMAZON9. "A Doll’s Life” (1982 Original Broadway Cast)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y6VMLWNKos4 One of the most colossal Broadway flops ever, this Comden and Green musical premiered on Broadway in 1982 and closed after just five performances. However, it did receive three Tony nominations, including one for actor George Hearn. GET ON AMAZON10. “Chess” (1988 Original Broadway Cast)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nhqud-xjAi4 While the original West End production of this musical ran for three years, the original Broadway production lasted only two months in 1988. Despite its short Broadway run, the show was nominated for two Tony Awards and was David Carroll’s penultimate Broadway musical before his untimely death in 1992. GET ON AMAZON11. “Heathers” (2014 Original Off-Broadway Cast)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zAmmc7VFiZY One of Laurence O’Keefe’s more recent efforts, this musical based on the 1988 dark comedy film ran for four months Off-Broadway. Although Spotify features four of the musical’s songs, the streaming service does not offer the whole cast album. GET ON AMAZONDid we leave out one of your favorite hard-to-find albums? Let us know in the comments!
[post_title] => 11 Wonderful Cast Recordings You Can’t Find On Spotify [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => 11-wonderful-cast-recordings-you-cant-find-on-spotify [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2017-01-18 12:23:02 [post_modified_gmt] => 2017-01-18 17:23:02 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => http://theatrenerds.com/?p=6535 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 12 [filter] => raw ) [25] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 6509 [post_author] => 639 [post_date] => 2017-01-16 11:41:36 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-01-16 16:41:36 [post_content] =>Today is Lin-Manuel Miranda’s 36th birthday!
It’s been a pretty long and hectic year for this actor/composer/writer/theatre supernerd. From Broadway to Disney, he has been pretty nonstop. If he was this amazing at 36, it’s hard to imagine what he’ll do at 37.Here are 10 things we loved Miranda for this year:
1. His Inspiring Tweets
https://twitter.com/Lin_Manuel/status/804596222027853824 Who else on Twitter gives their fans a creative good morning and goodnight tweet every single day? Add that to awesome pictures of him nerding out with other stars, travel pics and just overall inspirational messages.2. “Hamilton the Revolution"
I have to admit, I was a bit late in getting this book. I thought I knew all there was to know about the making of this show, but this book dives into all aspects of creating the hit musical. From casting to discussing tech week at The Public, this is a must-read. Aside from the great insights and beautiful images, Miranda has also fully annotated every song in the show. Read the book and fall in love with the musical all over again.
3. That One Time SNL Became All About Theatre
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nkjjtX83-Cc Straight from the opening monologue, you knew this was going to be a very theatre-intensive episode. Even during the commercial breaks, all they could do was show advertisements for “Aladdin” and “Hello, Dolly!” From “Hamilton” to “The Music Man,” this episode had it all, and Miranda didn’t skip a beat. And let’s not forget the epic music video about cast parties.4. The Mixtape
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5-GkrrE5gvI Miranda has proven to be the gift that just keeps giving. Just when we’ve stopped listening to the “Hamilton” cast album a million times, we’re gifted the “Hamilton Mixtape.” Miranda took cut songs, his favorite R&B artists and even wrote some new songs that turned into this. We can even expect a second volume next year.5. The Best Episode of Drunk History
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XZNHRE96q6Y This past fall, Miranda showed off his extensive knowledge about his favorite founding fathers in an episode entirely dedicated to Alexander Hamilton. There is drinking, guest appearances by Chris Jackson and Questlove, and, of course, a quick singalong to Semisonic’s “Closing Time.”6. His Mission to Get Rid of Ticket Bots
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2-MaZjlOJ5E This year, Miranda became a huge advocate to fight ticket bots. As if it’s not hard enough already to see “Hamilton” on Broadway, the bot issue has made it that much more difficult. These bots can get tons of tickets at once for any event and resell them for five times the price. Miranda wants this to stop, and has made it his mission in New York.7. All of His Talk Show Appearances
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UWpdYfbyW-k Miranda appeared on “The Tonight Show,” “The Late Show,” “Rachel Ray” and many more this year. of course, most of these appearances included doing some freestyle, but perhaps one of the most memorable interviews was when Miranda told Ellen his entire family reenacted a famous “Sound of Music” number in Austria. That, and he then proceeded to freestyle about cold showers.8. Charity for “Hamilton” tickets
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-FgucRblEDY Miranda took the “Hamilton” lottery a step further and auctioned off a bunch of experiences for donating to multiple charities this year. Not a bad way to remind people to spread the love.9. “Moana”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=93lrosBEW-Q In case conquering the theatre world wasn’t enough, Miranda is now involved in a ton of projects for Disney. Aside from being featured in the next “Mary Poppins” film and being named to have a role in the live-action Little Mermaid, Miranda helped create Disney’s latest hit, “Moana.” A great film for all ages, “Moana” features an empowering heroine and has a beautiful score. Not to mention, Miranda had a little too much fun making an evil Sebastian-like character with an incredibly catchy song.10. Love Is Love Is Love
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3frkqULr008 “Hamilton” and Miranda were the stars of the Tony’s this year. Though the performances were brilliant, one acceptance speech in particular stood out. Even in the rough times of 2016, Miranda was there to remind us what was important. Happy birthday, Lin-Manuel Miranda!Let us know in the comments what you’re looking forward to seeing Miranda do next year!
[post_title] => 10 Reasons To Celebrate Lin-Manuel Miranda On His Birthday [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => 10-reasons-celebrate-lin-manuel-miranda-birthday [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2017-01-16 16:49:33 [post_modified_gmt] => 2017-01-16 21:49:33 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => http://theatrenerds.com/?p=6509 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [26] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 6480 [post_author] => 395 [post_date] => 2017-01-13 10:26:16 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-01-13 15:26:16 [post_content] => For the past couple months, the big trend on YouTube has been silly, fun and a bit inexplicable. YouTubers take videos and systematically speed them up or slow them down each time a word or phrase is sung or spoken, resulting in an Alvin and the Chipmunks-level voice that very rapidly descends into the zippy sound of fast-forwarding at the end. Mainstream examples include “The entire ‘Bee Movie,” but every time they say ‘Bee,’ it gets faster,” which has garnered a whopping 15 million views, and a slew of versions featuring Smash Mouth’s famed song “All Star,” among others. With the resounding success of the musical “Hamilton,” and the notorious creativity of its fans, it’s no surprise that it has been subjected to the same fast-speed treatment as other popular videos. Here are some our favorites:1. “Alexander Hamilton,” but every time they say his name, it gets faster
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-ZLjJLtLrSM Is it just me, or does George Washington’s part (1:44) sound even cooler at this speed?2. “My Shot,” but every time they say “Shot,” it speeds up
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d6ETV7QzeIg And we thought it was hard rapping Hamilton’s solo normally!3. “Non Stop,” but every time Hamilton is asked why or how he does something, it gets faster
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tmScKwpoYDU The end of this is the exact definition of impossible.4. “The Schuyler Sisters,” but every time they sing “Work,” it gets faster
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s4_Ek2gNUrU This is a good one when you want to be reminded how often the word “Work” is actually sung in this one song.5. “Aaron Burr, Sir,” but it gets faster every time they say, “Sir”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k-ZsI4UTdig Well, that escalated quickly.6. “Guns and Ships,” but every time they say “Lafayette!” it gets faster
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K0ozO4B-q9M Daveed Diggs would definitely be able to handle this speed, noooo problem. BONUS: In case you have 45 minutes of spare time and want to listen to the complete first act of the show in a chipmunk voice, here’s “‘Hamilton Act 1’ but every time a main character’s name is said, it speeds up.” Enjoy! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dim3PvIoayEWhat are your favorite sped-up videos? Has the internet moved beyond “Hamilton” and started tackling your other favorite Broadway shows? Let us know in the comments!
[post_title] => Our Favorite Sped-Up 'Hamilton' Songs On YouTube [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => favorite-sped-up-hamilton-songs-youtube [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2017-01-13 10:27:53 [post_modified_gmt] => 2017-01-13 15:27:53 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => http://theatrenerds.com/?p=6480 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [27] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 6171 [post_author] => 12 [post_date] => 2017-01-12 10:19:06 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-01-12 15:19:06 [post_content] => From glow tape mishaps to hunger pains, we all know the strife tech week can cause. Let’s celebrate the joys and sorrows of the most beloved and feared week through the tweets of theatre nerds everywhere.1. Tech week brings stress, a lack of sleep and, apparently, fire hazards.
https://twitter.com/jrosefior/status/7808506941233233922. Wardrobe malfunctions are inevitable.
https://twitter.com/emilyboudrot/status/7808769936969687063. How did thespians survive pre-Siri?
https://twitter.com/CailinHurleyy/status/7911265026035630084. Tech brings out the inner motivational speaker in some...
https://twitter.com/Banjomin2247/status/7912442652086845445. ...And dietary confusion in others.
https://twitter.com/k10danek/status/7918757559573749766. You can play hide-and-go-seek with mic tape.
https://twitter.com/_peytonmwright_/status/7941133612859351047. You’ll develop an unhealthy obsession with glow tape.
https://twitter.com/SydLaRue/status/7936475386750197768. A sort-of romantic dinner atmosphere.
https://twitter.com/_whiterthanyou_/status/7886315486858526729. Dramaturgs do tech right.
https://twitter.com/chloeloos/status/78854334924648038410. Long days are fun days!
https://twitter.com/babycupid97/status/78827433951476940811. Celebrating the miracle that is a tear-free day.
https://twitter.com/katrinamwilson/status/78607646156017254512. The OCD techie’s nightmare.
https://twitter.com/MATSHIELDS/status/78513018749520691313. There will be some improvising.
https://twitter.com/Annika_Marks/status/78444359904796262414. Snow White don’t care — it’s tech week.
https://twitter.com/mags_moo/status/77873573656875417615. Technology does not mix with set paint.
https://twitter.com/TisforTonya/status/77870140167324876916. And this sums up everyone in the production right now.
https://twitter.com/lizmassie/status/783757969661960193Do these tweets describe your life during tech week? What are your favorite tech week-related stories? Let us know in the comments below...
[post_title] => 16 Tweets That Perfectly Sum Up Tech Week [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => 16-tweets-perfectly-sum-tech-week [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2017-01-12 10:19:06 [post_modified_gmt] => 2017-01-12 15:19:06 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => http://theatrenerds.com/?p=6171 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [28] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 6437 [post_author] => 639 [post_date] => 2017-01-11 09:35:05 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-01-11 14:35:05 [post_content] => It’s pretty hard to escape the words of William Shakespeare, arguably the world’s greatest playwright. You’ve likely studied his work in class or performed in one of his shows. Despite the great love theatre nerds have for Shakespeare, some find fault with his language, claiming it’s too difficult to understand. In all fairness, some of it is. The guy also created nearly 2,000 new words that we still use in the English language. We use so many words and phrases by him on a daily basis and don’t even realize it. We’re used to hearing the cliche “To be, or not to be” used without much thought or the classic “Romeo, Romeo, wherefore art thou, Romeo,” but here are 10 words and phrases you might not know came straight from the pen of Shakespeare:1. “Break the Ice” — “Taming of the Shrew”
Just think icebreakers. Every time you start a new show and need to get to know the cast, the first rehearsal consists of at least three of these. Funnily enough, it pretty much meant the same thing during Shakespeare’s time. Aside from referring to those awkward get-to-know-you games today, back then it also meant to make someone a little less frigid, i.e., Katherine in “Taming of the Shrew.”
2. “Swagger” — “Henry V” and “Midsummer Night’s Dream”
Bet you didn’t know this one had Shakespearean roots! This word was used in such phrases as “What hempen home-spuns have we swaggering here, so near the cradle of the fairy queen?” Yes, it was used a bit differently than it’s used today, but still is all Shakespearean.
3. “Bedazzled” — “The Taming of the Shrew”
Before referring to the trend of putting rhinestones on anything you could get your hands on, this word was used by Shakespeare to describe the sun. Featured in such lines as, “Pardon, old father, my mistaking eyes, that have been so bedazzled with the sun that everything I look on seemeth green,” the word had a much nicer meaning a few hundred years ago.
4. “Come What May” — ”Macbeth”
via GIPHY Though you may think “Moulin Rouge” helped catapult this saying to popularity, Shakespeare is the one to thank for this saying. When Shakespeare used it in “Macbeth,” it went a little something like, “Come what come may, time and the hour run through the roughest day.” Try putting that into song.5. “Love Is Blind” — “The Merchant of Venice”
via GIPHY One of the most overused romantic sayings in history, this phrase first sprung up in “The Merchant of Venice.” Shakespeare wrote, “But love is blind, and lovers cannot see the petty follies that themselves commit, for if they could Cupid himself would blush to see me thus transformèd to a boy.” This one has pretty much kept its meaning through the years.6. “Rant” — “Hamlet”
Is anyone surprised Shakespeare is responsible for coining this word? Though the first recorded use of this word was in Shakespeare’s “Merry Wives of Windsor,” it seems more appropriate to use this line from “Hamlet”: “I’ll rant as well as thou.” Like his creator, Hamlet was not very brief.
7. “Green-Eyed Monster” — “Othello”
via GIPHY Responsible for coining “green-eyed” in “Merchant of Venice,” Shakespeare took it a step further in “Othello” with “O, beware, my lord, of jealousy; it is the green-eyed monster.”8. “Not Slept a Wink” — “Cymbeline”
More formally spoken in Shakespeare’s work as, “I have not slept one wink,” this one is pretty self-explanatory and is used pretty much the same way today. Whether it be the night before a big audition or all of tech week, this saying is extremely applicable to theatre nerds.
9. “Eyeball” — “The Tempest”
You probably thought this one was created by some physician a couple hundred years ago, but credit goes to Shakespeare yet again. The use of this word has not changed since the late 1500s: “Go make thyself like a nymph o’ the sea: be subject to no sight but thine and mine, invisible to every eyeball else.”
10. “What’s Done Is Done” — “Macbeth”
First used in “Macbeth,” the title character says, “Things without all remedy Should be without regard: what’s done, is done.” Today we use this saying in the same way, though not to refer to a recent murder we’ve committed.
Did any of these words surprise you? Do you have any other Shakespearean words that you use constantly? Let us know in the comments!
[post_title] => 10 Words And Phrases You Didn't Know Came From Shakespeare [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => 10-words-and-phrases-you-didnt-know-came-from-shakespeare [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2018-04-23 09:51:17 [post_modified_gmt] => 2018-04-23 13:51:17 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => http://theatrenerds.com/?p=6437 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [29] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 6327 [post_author] => 440 [post_date] => 2017-01-10 08:00:32 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-01-10 13:00:32 [post_content] => If you are a theatre lover, you’ve probably wished at one time or another that your life was like a Broadway musical. Life would be incredible if it were socially acceptable to burst into a spontaneous musical number in public, complete with your own perfectly choreographed backup dancers. Now, imagine for a moment that you could also have a Broadway character’s wardrobe, including all the dazzling colors, fabrics and accessories. *Insert longing sigh here*Here are 10 Broadway characters closets we dream of raiding:
1. The Schuyler Sisters — “Hamilton”
It makes sense to start with the first ladies of Broadway: Angelica, Eliza (and Peggy). The beautiful colors of each gown pop from the stage, while each bodice has a design unique to each sister. They definitely know how to make those dresses work for them during the show, rocking the old-school frocks with the fierceness of Beyonce in hot pants.
2. Natasha Rostova — “Natasha, Pierre & The Great Comet of 1812”
This Russian romance just began its run on Broadway in November, and the costumes are stunning. The work of Tony Award-winning designer Paloma Young, all of the costumes in the show are a sight to behold. However, Natasha’s high-society gowns contain gorgeous beadwork and beautiful accessories that would look just perfect in your closet.
3. Corny Collins — “Hairspray”
Who doesn’t love a great suit? Corny’s wardrobe choices are about as colorful and fun as his personality. He manages to pull off outfits that would look downright tacky on anyone else. Case in point: Derek Hough, the most recent Corny Collins, looked nothing but sleek in a variety of flashy suits during “Hairspray Live!”
4. Glinda — “Wicked”
If you were ever, ever envious of Barbie’s wardrobe, take a stroll through Glinda’s closet. The bright colors, sequins and variety of silhouettes make for dreamy ensembles full of feminine flair.
5. Gigi — “Gigi”
Designer Catherine Zuber took an old classic and made it modern in the recent revival of “Gigi.” The couture gowns seen onstage are worthy of any awards show red carpet. The chic French styles are any fashionista’s dream.
6. Reno Sweeney — “Anything Goes”
Let’s begin by saying that Sutton Foster could wear a paper bag and still look amazing. However, she’s certainly not the only actress to play the spunky Reno Sweeney, whose wardrobe is 1930s perfection. Wide-legged pants, fabulous dresses and nautical-inspired pieces are flawless retro fashion.
7. William Shakespeare — “Something Rotten”
Leather, leather and more leather. Shakespeare has the suave style of an ‘80s rockstar. Created by popular Broadway costume designer Gregg Barnes, the fitted jacket and knee-high leather boots see the old-school playwright bringing sexy back.
8. Sandy — “Grease”
Continuing on the leather theme, who hasn’t wanted to be Bad Sandy with her red high heels and leather pants? From cool to cute, her poodle skirts are equally adorable. Sandy’s wardrobe is certainly versatile, with an outfit for every mood.
9. Lola — “Kinky Boots”
There are too many fabulous boots to count. Combine them with the sparkle, the wigs and the extensive array of makeup, and we’ve got a winner. Besides knowing how to make boots, Lola certainly knows how to wear them. Fashion is an art form in this closet.
10. Elle Woods — “Legally Blonde”
What we want? Elle Woods’ stylish, Carrie-Bradshaw-sized closet. She takes boring work wardrobes and gives them the makeover we all crave. The clothes are as sassy as her spunky personality and certainly jealousy-inducing.
Which Broadway character’s wardrobe would you love to have? Let us know in the comments below...
[post_title] => Broadway Characters’ Wardrobes We’d Love to Raid [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => broadway-characters-wardrobes-wed-love-to-raid [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2017-01-07 00:25:14 [post_modified_gmt] => 2017-01-07 05:25:14 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => http://theatrenerds.com/?p=6327 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 1 [filter] => raw ) [30] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 6336 [post_author] => 1 [post_date] => 2017-01-09 10:56:20 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-01-09 15:56:20 [post_content] => Though we love a good rendition of Once Upon a Mattress or Seussical, there’s a whole slew of lesser-known musicals just waiting to be performed by young actors. In fact, Beat by Beat Press, a boutique publishing company founded by NYC playwrights, is dedicated to creating and licensing original children’s musicals that are total game-changers for your next production.They have an entire repertoire of cool shows. Here are seven of our favorite:
1. Press Start!
[caption id="attachment_6337" align="alignleft" width="700"] Photo Credit: KD Markley Elementary[/caption]
Kids and adults alike will enjoy this 90’s nostalgia-based piece. It’s composed entirely in Nintendo synthesizers and follows famous video game characters who find themselves in a bit of a pickle: running out of lives! Their solution? Host a fundraiser for gold rings in order to keep on playing.
Listen to the soundtrack and learn more HERE
2. The Grunch
[caption id="attachment_6338" align="aligncenter" width="700"] Photo Credit: Monica Simoes[/caption]
Inspired by Dr. Seuss’s iconic story, The Grunch is a love letter to theatre nerds everywhere. This tale dives into the incredible community that forms when putting on a show, and how we can never take away the “spirit of theatre”. (We dare you to keep your eyes dry during “It’s All Part of the Magic”.)
Listen to the soundtrack and learn more HERE
3. Space Pirates!
[caption id="attachment_6339" align="aligncenter" width="800"] Photo Credit: The Garden Players[/caption]
A drab and dreary field trip goes awry when Gabby and her classmates get beamed into outer space. The whacky series of events that ensue help Gabby, a girl who gets picked on, become comfortable in her own skin. This show not only brings audiences a great lesson, but features aliens and pirates. Need we say more?
Listen to the soundtrack and learn more HERE
4. The Most Epic Birthday Party Ever
[caption id="attachment_6340" align="aligncenter" width="800"] Photo Credit: Richard Lurie[/caption]
This mind-blowing show is like a G-rated version of Lord of the Flies...also with singing. When a backyard birthday bash turns into apocalyptic mayhem, a group of kids must build a new society from scratch -- using only party supplies. It’s quirky, crazy, comedic and, of course, epic.
Listen to the soundtrack and learn more HERE
5. We Are Monsters
[caption id="attachment_6341" align="alignleft" width="640"] The Garden Players[/caption]
Monsters aren’t just a figment of Netflix’s “Stranger Things” -- they’re a major player in this thrilling kids musical. In We Are Monsters, human kids sneak into a monster cabaret in an attempt to gain followers for their YouTube channel. What could possibly go wrong?
Listen to the soundtrack and learn more HERE
6. Tut, Tut
[caption id="attachment_6343" align="aligncenter" width="710"] Photo Credit: Ravi Kohli[/caption]
Historical musicals are all the rage (*ahem* Hamilton) and Beat by Beat Press has got you covered. Tut, Tut is a loosely-based, contemporary take on the story of King Tut. This infamous King of Egypt took the throne at just 10 years old making it the perfect production for pint-sized actors.
Listen to the soundtrack and learn more HERE
7. Musicville
[caption id="attachment_6344" align="aligncenter" width="699"] Photo Credit: Monica Simoes[/caption]
Imagine a world that takes place “inside” of music. This fantastical show chronicles protagonists Maiden Melody and Radical Rhythm as they embark on an adventure to defeat the Sorcerer of Silence. It’s an adorable, heartwarming journey that you don’t want to miss.
Listen to the soundtrack and learn more HERE
[post_title] => 7 New Children’s Musicals Every Theatre Kid Should Know About
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[post_content] => Since its inception in 2005, YouTube has become a platform not just for original content, but also for discovering fresh, young talent. Several content creators have gone beyond cyberspace and have broken out into other mediums. For example, Todrick Hall’s recent performance as Lola in “Kinky Boots” makes us wonder who else from the YouTube community would have a shot on the Great White Way.
Here are 10 YouTubers who we feel have some serious potential to star on Broadway:
1. Thomas Sanders
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mR6_3Brz1dA This Vine and YouTube personality has made no secret of his love for Disney films and Broadway. In 2015, he starred as J.D. in Gen Y Production’s staging of “Heathers.” Earlier this year, his show “Ultimate Storytime” had a U.S. tour and had its own cast album released on iTunes.2. Sam Tsui
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1_7hCDs62u8 Known for his collaborations with fellow YouTuber Kurt Schneider, Sam Tsui has been thrilling YouTube with his covers and originals since 2008. While he attended Yale University, he had lead roles in productions of “Baby, “Bat Boy, “[title of show]” and “Rent.” He starred in the web series “College Musical,” which later became a full-length film. Today, he continues to tour the world with both his YouTube covers and original music.3. Scott Hoying
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eBckSfLjAu4 The baritone lead for the Pentatonix and one half of the YouTube channel Superfruit, Hoying has had massive success in the music industry already — and at 25 years old! Along with his friend Mitch Grassi, he has guest-starred on “Bones” and created a series called “Hip-Hop Goes Broadway.”4. Mitch Grassi
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vdNSi07T5GQ The tenor lead for the Pentatonix and the other half of Superfruit, Mitch Grassi was active in musical theatre as a teenager. He starred in his high school’s production of “Urinetown” and covered songs from “Spring Awakening” and songs by Scott Alan, a popular songwriter in NYC circles.5. Casey Breves
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WhcNecoadjw Although maybe not quite as famous as the aforementioned stars, Casey Breves has had the most classical vocal training. He has performed in several productions with the Yale Opera, toured the country with Chanticleer and has frequently collaborated with his husband, Sam Tsui.6. SAARA
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fi_aZIHJl-g This Finnish-born YouTuber rose to fame in 2014 with her viral videos of imitating languages and musical styles. She later scored a deal with Capitol Records but is now an independent musician. She has appeared on “The Ellen DeGeneres Show” and “ON With Mario Lopez” and continues to cover songs and perform original content.7. GloZell
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XtIw4SAJheM This comedian/singer/vlogger has collaborated with Todrick Hall, Miranda Sings, and a bunch of other famous YouTubers. She has a BFA in musical theatre from the University of Florida and has covered everything from Christmas carols to modern pop songs (often comedically). She continues to charm viewers with her exuberant personality and hilarious content.8. Colleen Ballinger
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-R3c_3zk1tc Famous for her Miranda Sings character, Colleen Ballinger tours the country performing as herself and Miranda. A vocal performance graduate from Azusa Pacific University, she also created the role of Circe in the Off-Broadway production of “Odyssey: The Epic Musical.” With all of her incredible versatility, including a recent Netflix series, we hope Ballinger makes the full transition to Broadway sooner rather than later!9. Diamond White
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jL7qFa0oza0 Another frequent collaborator with Kurt Schneider, Diamond White had her big break as a finalist during the second season of “The X Factor U.S.” After finishing in fifth place, she had several gigs as a voice actress and as a guest star on various sitcoms. She gained a new fan base on YouTube through cover songs. Her powerful belting register makes her ideal for Broadway.10. Alyson Stoner
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8neE8tuIVZM A former child actress known for her roles in “Cheaper by the Dozen” and the “Step Up” series, Alyson Stoner was also a backup dancer for Missy Elliott and Eminem. In recent years, she has cultivated a YouTube channel for covers and original music. With her dancing, acting and vocal skills, Stoner is the whole package for Broadway.Think of any YouTubers we should add here? Let us know your picks in the comments below...
[post_title] => 10 YouTubers Who Should Star On Broadway [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => youtubers-who-should-star-on-broadway [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2017-01-08 10:35:14 [post_modified_gmt] => 2017-01-08 15:35:14 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => http://theatrenerds.com/?p=6321 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 13 [filter] => raw ) [32] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 6191 [post_author] => 12 [post_date] => 2017-01-07 08:00:23 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-01-07 12:00:23 [post_content] => [viralQuiz id=25]Try Another: Only A Real Theatre Nerd Can Ace This Quiz
[post_title] => Quiz: How Many Thespian Terms Do You Know? [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => how-many-thespian-terms-do-you-know [to_ping] => [pinged] => https://theatrenerds.com/only-a-real-theatre-nerd-can-ace-this-quiz/ [post_modified] => 2018-10-01 11:23:14 [post_modified_gmt] => 2018-10-01 15:23:14 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => http://theatrenerds.com/?p=6191 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [33] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 6310 [post_author] => 440 [post_date] => 2017-01-06 13:38:48 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-01-06 17:38:48 [post_content] => Have you ever practiced your Tony Award acceptance speech in your free time? Do you dream of becoming the next Shakespeare, Rodgers, Hammerstein, Sondheim, Lloyd Webber or Miranda but have no idea where to start? Deciding the plot, setting and characters can be just as hard as writing the show itself. It’s easy to get frustrated and quit before you even start. Self-doubt and fear are the biggest dream killers.The truth is, you might not create a blockbuster hit, but you can’t win if you never throw your hat into the ring. So, why not take a shot?
To help you get started, here are some ways to inspire your writing:
1. Pay Attention
There are stories everywhere. Instead of putting in your headphones and burying your head in your phone, try observing the world around you. This is especially useful on public transportation. Listen to what people are saying and observe the potential characters near you. Tip: Carry a notepad or note application on your phone, you never know when something you see will inspire an idea. When inspiration does come, you want to be ready!2. Read the News
Real life is full of great ideas. So, read the news, and read it widely. Check out all of the different sections available in the publication. Something might spark your interest! Tip: No time for reading? A wise professor once told me that a great writing exercise when inspiration has disappeared is to go through the newspaper, select a headline without reading the article and write a creative story based on that headline.3. Write What You Know
It can be daunting to take on an unknown subject for your first kick at the can. So, pick a topic you already know a lot about, or write about yourself. Lin-Manuel Miranda’s first full-length musical, “In the Heights,” was based the New York City neighborhood he grew up in. His character of Abuela Claudia was inspired by a surrogate grandmother from his childhood summers spent in Puerto Rico. Miranda was able to tap into his experiences and use them to generate a Tony Award-winning score and musical. Tip: Jot down experiences that have impacted you, then begin to outline each one to see how much of a complete story is there.4. Take A Break
It's amazing how busy we can be without every taking time to relax and restore our body, soul, & mind. Even pausing work for a 10-15 minute walk can stimulate your brain in ways you never imagined. Many creatives say their best ideas come away from the office. One big example of this is Hamilton's creator/writer Lin-Manuel Miranda. His idea for "Hamilton: An American Musical" came to him while vacationing in Mexico.It’s no accident that the best idea I’ve ever had in my life — perhaps maybe the best one I’ll ever have in my life — came to me on vacation Lin-Manuel Miranda
5. One Plus One
Find two ideas and put them together to make an original idea. Sure, zombies have been done. And doctors working to fight off a zombie epidemic have been done. But say that zombie was a doctor working to fight off the zombie epidemic. Suddenly, you have a new and interesting idea, all because you put two of them together.6. History Repeats Itself
You don’t have to look much further than a history textbook to find great stories. Past events are the basis for at least a dozen movies that come out every year, and even hit musicals such as “Hamilton.” So, don’t snooze in your history class. Take a step into the past — you never know what you might find. Example? A newsboy strike in 1899 was the basis for the Broadway hit "Newsies"7. Ask, “What If?”
This simple question could turn an ordinary idea or situation into something extraordinary. It’s a great excuse for the imagination. This is even a useful way to put a twist on an already written idea. The musical “Wicked” is the perfect “what-if.” What if the Wicked Witch of the West wasn’t bad? What if Dorothy was the villain? What if the roles were reversed? These questions took an old idea and made it fresh, leading to a bestselling book and an iconic musical.8. A Picture’s Worth 50,000 words
Similar to the headline idea, find a photo without any captions or explanations and write the creative story of that photo. Magazines, newspapers, Pinterest and Tumblr are all helpful places to look for pictures to get your creative juices flowing.9. Seek Collaboration
Sure, you can be a lone wolf out there penning your masterpiece, but good things come in pairs. In many cases, two brains is better than one. A high percentage of Broadway shows, movies, and TV series have multiple writers/collaborators. Though the main ideas come from you, creative partners can help bring new perspective and talents to the project. After all, what was Rodgers without Hammerstein? How to find collaborators?- Join a meetup group on a site like Meetup.com
- Join a Facebook group for playwright's like This One
- Attend a playwright's workshop in your city
How do you find inspiration for show writing? Let us know in the comments below...
[post_title] => How To Find Inspiration To Write A Hit Show [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => how-to-find-inspiration-to-write-a-hit-show [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2017-01-07 01:18:24 [post_modified_gmt] => 2017-01-07 06:18:24 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => http://theatrenerds.com/?p=6310 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [34] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 6165 [post_author] => 12 [post_date] => 2017-01-04 12:03:55 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-01-04 16:03:55 [post_content] => [show-logos orderby='none' category='thespian-tees-2' 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='200,218'] Showfolk are in a special group all their own, which is why when we find one another, we tend to stick together and act, well, a little distinct. If you’re a member of the tribe, you’re probably guilty of doing a few of the things listed below. Don’t worry — you’re definitely not alone.1. You randomly belt out showtunes.
Whether you’re in the car, in the shower or on the bus, you’re just bringing joy to all those around you.
2. You tap dance whenever you’re waiting in a line.
May as well work on that toe, heel, heel, heel, toe, heel combo at the DMV.
3. You’re always suggesting a massage circle.
Just as long as you’re not the caboose.
4. You’d never throw anything away.
Everything has prop or costume potential!
5. You’ll change your clothes in front of anyone.
You’ve done so many quick changes in the wings that you’ve lost all sense of modesty.
6. You walk overly turned out.
All those musical theatre ballet classes really did a number on your gait.
7. You get a teensy bit overdramatic — occasionally.
Theatre kids are really good at raising the stakes.
8. You’ve been seen stretching in some odd places.
Just warming up my instrument!
9. You practice choreography with your hands.
It’s just more efficient than busting out a pirouette in the green room.
10. The auditions you’ve had lately directly correlates with the answer to the question, “How have you been?”
“Auditions have dried up, I’m done for. How have you been?”
11. When something upsetting happens, you file it away in the “Things That Make Me Cry” file.
Ah, this will come in handy for that “'night, Mother” monologue.
12. You celebrate the Tonys like regular people celebrate the Super Bowl.
The “Hamilton” cast is way better than that puppy-monkey-baby commercial anyway.
13. You’ve been known to freak out over fog and snow machines.
They’re the coolest.
14. You've accidently scared a stranger while doing a vocal warmup exercise
"sushi chef...sushi chef."
15. You quote Shakespeare in everyday conversation.
“All that glitters is not gold.”
16. You talk loudly.
Projection is a skillset you flex regardless of your surroundings.
17. You slip in and out of accents on occasion.
“Right this way, pip-pip, cheerio.”
18. You’re always on the lookout for a great audition song or monologue.
Every play you read, cast recording you hear & show you see is an opportunity for your next audition gem.
19. You save every Playbill and program from every show you’ve ever seen.
No, it’s not an unhealthy obsession.
20. You've worn your character shoes out in public.
What? They're comfortable, plus you never know when you will need to perform a jazz square.
21. You talk to the mirror... a lot!
Hi Mr. Mirror... watch me deliver this line 25 different ways.
What’s your favorite theatre kid-ism? Let us know in the comments below...
[post_title] => 21 Signs That You're A Theatre Kid [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => 21-signs-youre-a-theatre-kid [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2017-01-04 13:26:51 [post_modified_gmt] => 2017-01-04 17:26:51 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => http://theatrenerds.com/?p=6165 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 3 [filter] => raw ) [35] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 6159 [post_author] => 440 [post_date] => 2017-01-02 13:03:38 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-01-02 17:03:38 [post_content] => It’s no secret that 2016 was deemed a pretty challenging year on a global scale. Headlines were a firestorm of bad news piled on top of more bad news. However, through all of this, the arts have continued to serve as a bright light during dark times as a method of expression and a unique way to communicate. 2016 was no exception, as musical theater took center stage.Here are some of the year’s major highlights:
Stage
“Hamilton’s” global dominance really hit its peak this year, with continuous sold-out shows, an opening in Chicago, a slew of awards and the release of the “Hamilton Mixtape.” It’s safe to say the show, and its creator, have taken the world by storm. Lin-Manuel Miranda announced a pile of new projects this year, including his work on the Disney musical “Moana” and his role in the upcoming “Mary Poppins Returns” alongside Emily Blunt.
Television
Broadway took on television once again with a trifecta of performances this year. Kenny Ortega’s remake of “The Rocky Horror Picture Show” for Fox gave the cult classic new life. While the musical was filmed rather than a live performance, it exposed the show to a new generation.
Continuing its red-letter musical year, Fox also produced the ambitious musical television special, “Grease Live!” and raised the bar for all future television musicals with a live studio audience and variety of sets. NBC followed up that success later in the year with its own impressive and elaborate musical for TV, “Hairspray Live!”
And the fun is nowhere near ending. NBC announced its 2017 live musical will be “Bye Bye Birdie” and will star Jennifer Lopez.
Film
A new year means the start of another awards season, and for the first time in ages, an original live-action movie musical is poised to score big. The critics are raving about “La La Land,” the charming movie musical with Hollywood favorites Emma Stone and Ryan Gosling. Oscar predictions have the film as a frontrunner for nominations, only encouraged by its sweep of several awards at the Critics Choice Awards. The new film throws it back to the classic feel-good Hollywood musicals, which is just the lift of optimism the new year needs.
In case you need another pick-me-up, Disney will be releasing its star-studded remake of the hit musical, “Beauty and the Beast” in March. The hotly anticipated film will feature songs from the ‘90s classic and new material written by the film’s original composer, Alan Menken.
These were just a few of the big-ticket items seen in 2016 — there were many, many more. Musical theatre appears poised to enter a mainstream golden age, which is nothing but good news for theatre nerds everywhere. As the industry continues to expand and become more mainstream, stereotypes will be smashed and barriers will be broken. The creation of new and original work will be encouraged, and more Lin-Manuel Miranda's will have their day in the sun.
With all of this, 2017 might not be as gloomy as everyone is predicting~
Which theatre moment are you most looking forward to in 2017? What was your favorite theatre moment from 2016? Let us know in the comments below...
[post_title] => The Rise Of The Musical: Why 2016 Was A Great Year For Musical Theatre [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => rise-of-the-musical-why-2016-was-a-great-year-for-musical-theatre [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2017-07-11 18:13:25 [post_modified_gmt] => 2017-07-11 22:13:25 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => http://theatrenerds.com/?p=6159 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 1 [filter] => raw ) ) [post_count] => 36 [current_post] => -1 [before_loop] => 1 [in_the_loop] => [post] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 7299 [post_author] => 712 [post_date] => 2017-03-02 09:26:09 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-03-02 14:26:09 [post_content] => For many actors, performing in community theatre is like dipping your toe into the proverbial pool of entertainment. It has served as a launchpad for some, while existing as a safe haven for others to hone their craft. Regardless, community theatres are nurturing and magical places where performers unite simply for the love of acting. As said by renowned actor Morgan Freeman, “There’s no theatre if there’s no community theatre.” No doubt, we theatre nerds agree.From Robert Pattinson to Emma Stone, here are seven well-known actors who got their start in community theatre:
1. Robert Pattinson
The mega-famous “Twilight” star says he “owes everything” to community theatre.
Before sinking his fangs into the hearts of teenage girls everywhere, Robert Pattinson discovered his love of acting in community theatre. Propelled by the desire to meet girls, he auditioned for a local amateur dramatic society, the Barnes Theatre Club, in Southeast London. Although he didn’t find a girlfriend there, a talent agent spotted him during a show at the theatre. As fate would have it, the agent introduced Pattinson to the then-director of “Harry Potter,” Mike Newell, who cast him as Cedric Diggory. The rest, of course, is history.
[caption id="" align="alignnone" width="789"] Pattinson performing at the Barnes Theatre in London / Credit: Barnes Theatre Co.[/caption]
“I just decided that I should try to act,” Pattison told Mirror. “So I auditioned for ‘Guys and Dolls’ and got a little tiny part as some Cuban dancer, and then I got the lead part, and then I got my agent. I owe everything to the Barnes Theatre Club.”
2. Kristen Bell
Do you want to build a … banana? Prior to reaching stardom with hit films such as “Frozen,” Kristen Bell was vying for roles in community theatre. She “flipped out” and cried at her first community theatre audition for a part in “Raggedy Ann and Andy.” Bell told NY Daily News that she ended up being cast “in the complex and dual role of the banana in the first act and the tree in the second act.”
Bell continued acting in community theatre up until college, saying that the friendships she made encouraged her to pursue her passion.
3. Chris Evans
Chris Evans didn’t start out as a superhero. The “Captain America” star grew up performing in community theatre, acting with his two sisters and his brother in a children’s company called the Concord Youth Theatre.
“Each of us have done at least 15 to 20 shows there,” Evans told Backstage. His family was so into the Concord Youth Theatre that when Evans was around 18, his mother took over as the artistic director there and has been ever since. Seeing his older sister, Carly, onstage inspired Evans to be an actor.
“Her play would end, and she’d get flowers and candy, and it just seemed like such a good time,” he said. “She was having a ball and hanging out with her acting friends — it just looked awesome. I was like, ‘I’ll give this a shot.’”
So, he got involved in the theatre. “I fell in love,” he said. “I started doing plays year-round. I was always onstage.”
4. Jane Krakowski
5. Anna Kendrick
With her “pitch perfect” presence, Anna Kendrick is currently a go-to performer for musical theatre films. Despite hitting it big with a Broadway role in “High Society” at age 12, the Oscar nominee’s first taste of theatre was through auditioning for local shows.
“My first audition was for ‘Annie,’ when I was like five years old and auditioning for community theatre,” the Maine native told E! News. The “Into the Woods” actress didn’t get the lead that time around, but she did play one of the other orphans in the production. Kendrick remembers the experience fondly, telling NPR that singing “Hard-Knock Life” was “the best.”
In an interview with The Portland Press Herald, Kendrick recalls doing multiple community theatre shows. “I think I only did shows at Lyric Theatre and smaller places,” she said. “I had some very formative experiences.”
6. Kristin Chenoweth
Now a veteran performer of Broadway stages (not to mention a Tony and Emmy winner), Kristin Chenoweth started out learning the ropes on a community theatre stage. The “Wicked” star played in musicals such as “Anything Goes” at the Theatre Tulsa during her college years. Located in Oklahoma, Theatre Tulsa is the seventh longest-running community theatre in America and strives to educate artists through training and experience.
Chenoweth isn’t the only star to come out of the Theatre Tulsa, with actress Jeanne Tripplehorn and author Sam Harris receiving their first stage experiences there as well.
7. Emma Stone
Although she is now a Hollywood darling (and a Best Actress winner!), Emma Stone began performing at a small theatre in her hometown in Arizona. The Valley Youth Theatre was a haven for Stone, who has said that performing helped curb her panic attacks when she was growing up.
Before leaving for California, Stone played in 18 different shows at the nonprofit theatre, including “Winnie the Pooh,” “The Princess and the Pea,” “The Little Mermaid” and “Cinderella.”
[caption id="" align="alignnone" width="428"] Stone as Eeyore at VYT / Credit: VYT.[/caption]
Bob Cooper, an acting coach at VYT who has known Stone since she was 11, revealed in an article with Daily Mail that she credits the local theatre for giving her the skills she needed.
“Thank you thank you thank you,” she wrote to him. “It’s all because of you.”
Do you have any other cool stories about stars in community theatre? Let us know in the comments below!
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