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[post_content] => We all have people who inspire us, and as theatre nerds, those people tend to be Broadway stars. You know, the performers you dream about meeting but fear that if you do, you’ll collapse into a puddle of mush and stain their angelic feet.
Well, if you’re dying to meet the greatest on the Great White Way, try one of the routes below. They’re the best (and least creepy) ways to go:
This is the most professional option and should be taken by those seeking to legitimately interview a Broadway star. If you’re not doing that, feel free to scroll down to another method. On occasion, publicists or managers will arrange meet and greets, but it’s important to do your research before you reach out.
After your incessant Google searching has produced the current contact information, it’s time for your pitch. Send an email to the star’s rep telling them why you want to speak with their client and why they should let you (you’re basically sharing your own credentials). Broadway folks are usually very generous about doing interviews (even if they’re informal and just for you), but you should remember they are busy people and be respectful of their time.
You’ve stood in the pouring rain, you’ve pushed through crowds and you’ve even jumped out of your seat halfway through the finale — all so you could reserve the best possible spot at the stage door and meet that star. But, have you tried “stage-dooring” (we’ve decided that’s a verb now) a show when you’re not actually seeing it?
The best way to ensure you’re standing right up against that metal gate and directly across the stage door is to get there while the show’s still going on. Pick a show, grab some Starbucks and wait outside the stage door before you know the show is going to get out. Even getting there 10 minutes before the curtain will make a huge difference. This will give you the optimal chance of meeting your favorite star (assuming they’re on that night)!
Sometimes that star you’d do anything to meet isn’t in a show (#depressing) or has moved on to TV and film roles (#ByeSuttonFoster), so there’s no way for a stage door meetup. Cheer up! Many of these stars still do press!
There are plenty of lesser-known talk shows that need to get butts in their studio seats. Some companies will even pay you to fill them (check out On Set Productions)! A great option in New York City is the BUILD Series, a live interview show produced by AOL and Verizon. Everyone from actors to athletes grace the BUILD stage, but you’re obviously more interested in the Broadway folks. And man, do they get a ton! To drop a few names, Lesli Margherita, Kristin Chenoweth, Christian Borle, Sutton Foster and Bernadette Peters have all been seen here.
As a bonus, BUILD’s resident Broadway moderator is Laura Heywood (Broadway Girl herself), who provides delicious tidbits, asks smart questions and speaks the voice of theatre nerds everywhere. The last portion of the taping is an audience Q&A, which means you can ask your favorite star that question that’s been burning in the back of your mind forever (unless it’s super weird or you’re shaking too hard to speak). The greatest part is that when the show is over, audience members have an opportunity to snap a quick picture with their favorite star (as time permits).
By the blessings of the theatre gods, most Broadway talent takes a spin starring in their own cabaret show or participating in a concert. Look out for your star at venues such as 54 Below or Birdland. These intimate spots give you the chance to watch your idol in action very close up. Your star is more likely to hang out and chat with fans after, too, considering these shows are extremely personal and it means a lot to them to have your support.
If you’re pounding the concrete pavement of New York City hoping to nab a role in any show that will have you, gaining insight from your favorite Broadway star is a must. The good news is that performers are some of the kindest souls out there, and they love giving back. From people at the height of their career to staples in Broadway ensembles, the members of the Broadway community are constantly instructing workshops for aspiring performers.
This is obviously not the option for people just looking for a quick selfie or hug, but if you’re hoping to make a connection and learn from your idol, there’s nothing better. Look into companies like RPP for master classes!
Nikki Kim[/caption]
At about eleven, they called the first non-equity group. Unfortunately, the way we signed up, sixteen-year-old, five-foot tall me was in a group with mainly four-foot-nothing eight-year-olds. For once, I could say I was tall! As we waited, I asked the monitor if we had been cut to sixteen bars, and she shook her head with a funny look and giggled a bit. She told me no, and I was relieved. I wanted to sing my first choice, naturally. I pulled my original song, then went in with a slightly faked confidence. I sang “I Know It’s Today” from Shrek the Musical, and really put my focus on telling the story, and I felt it went really, really well. The casting director, Ms. Jillian Cimini, was staring at my resume from the moment I started to sing, writing things down. At the end of my song, I said thank you, picked up my books and turned to leave, and right before I took a step, she stopped me, asked where I was from and what grade I was in. She thought I was a freshman at the oldest and seemed surprised when I said I was actually a Junior. She nodded, thanked me and I left. As I left, I surveyed the room one last time. A lot of kids had shown up while I was in the room, and there was now a line out the door. To my surprise, it was 11:30. I was told to expect to be there until late that night, but we were done. That was it, and it was a lot simpler and less dramatic than I had imagined. So, my dad and I packed up and decided to roam the city that never sleeps.
https://www.halloweentownstore.com/
https://actorstheatre.org/humana-festival-of-new-american-plays/
https://www.renaissancefest.com/
https://www.renfestival.com/
https://www.texrenfest.com/
https://www.centralpark.com/guide/activities/shakespeare-in-the-park.html
https://www.sidetrackchicago.com/
https://www.osfashland.org/
Fans of the memorable Phil Collins music gracing the 1999 movie will enjoy the nine new songs Collins created for the Broadway show. Though the musical version of “Tarzan” was fairly short-lived, it does stay true to the heart of the story. Unfortunately, many critics weren’t sure what to make of the show’s pop-inspired tunes, putting it at the top of our list.
How do you pluck a cast of characters from under the sea and place them on a Broadway stage? With roller skates, of course! Okay, so “The Little Mermaid” doesn’t actually use skates, but the performers do wear Heely-inspired kicks.
With a slew of new songs accompanying the traditional Alan Menken tunes and some Tony nominations in its back pocket, this musical seemed to be either loved or loathed by audiences and critics. Disney’s 2007 production still did quite well and brought a splash of magic to those who fell in love with the classic movie.
The debut of “Aladdin” brought this story to life through a whole new world: musical theatre. The show’s hilariously charming Genie, gruesome villain, timeless romance and a rags-to-riches story translate well to the stage. As a relatively new addition to the Disney on Broadway family, “Aladdin” debuted in New York City in 2014 and received mixed reviews.
Though this show might not touch the iconic film version, it’s still a great experience for families who want to escape into Agrabah.
Though the Broadway musical, written by “Downton Abbey” creator Julian Fellowes, takes most of its inspiration from the original novel, it certainly serves up a spoonful of sugar reminiscent of the Julie Andrews movie.
Nothing can compare to seeing Mary soar through the theatre with her umbrella or watching Bert and his fellow chimney sweeps stepping in time as they tap dance up the walls. It’s apparent that that a live adaptation of Disney’s magical nanny is “practically perfect in every way.”
This tale as old as time was brought to life in 1993 when creatives bravely morphed the adored movie into Broadway material. It’s hard to beat lavish dance numbers performed by dancing silverware or a mystified castle in the middle of the woods. The story’s charm, along with its notable music, quickly made this one a fan-favorite.
After sweeping the Great White Way and making its way around the world, “Beauty and the Beast” has proven to be one of Broadway’s best.
The 1992 movie may not be Disney’s most well-known or popular, but the stage version has cultivated quite the following. The story chronicles the Newsboys’ strike of 1899 and includes some of the best choreography in all of Broadway history.
We’re guessing the show’s enormous popularity comes from having all the makings of good theatre: a protagonist we want to root for, spectacular music, a pinch of romance and dance numbers that take inspiration from tap, ballet, jazz and modern. “Newsies” continues to successfully seize the day!
Prior to the mid-’90s, the world hardly expected Disney’s animated feature about a royal lion to translate so well to the stage. During its reign for the past few decades, “The Lion King” has become a theatrical sensation, surpassing “The Phantom of the Opera” in box office earnings.
Looking back, it’s unsurprising that the music of Elton John and Tim Rice, paired with a plot with Shakespearean roots, could be anything other than made for Broadway. Astounding choreography, unique puppetry, elaborate costumes and a heartwarming story make certain that “The Lion King” will stand the test of time. For that, this beloved musical ranks at the top of our list.
Even though “Bonnie and Clyde” was only on Broadway for three months, the show has developed a large cult following. The score is gorgeous, and Jeremy Jordan and Laura Osnes had wonderful chemistry (not to mention vocal chops). Luckily, there is a cast recording, so we can properly mourn this show’s early closing.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NYtknprFvxE
This four-person musical is only one act, but it features some wonderful, witty songs about show business, from “Secondary Characters” to “I Am Playing Me.” The show follows Heidi, Susan, Jeff and Hunter through the rehearsal process of creating a show. After 103 performances, it probably flopped because it’s unrelatable for audience members who aren’t part of the theatre community, and it’s less flashy and commercial than most Broadway musicals.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ha3A84MdF1U
This show, based on the famous Stephen King novel, is about a high school girl with telekinetic powers who deals with her religious mother and the high school prom. This show flopped, but it became the inspiration for a book by Ken Mandelbaum called, “Not Since Carrie: Forty Years of Broadway Flops.” During previews, there was a mixture of standing ovations, thunderous applause and a chorus of boos. Ticket sales didn’t suffer, but the critics ripped the show apart, causing financial backers to pull their money out of the production.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_gfo3aC8A4Q
It’s kind of nice to know that even Stephen Sondheim isn’t perfect. This musical is about a town that creates a fake miracle in order to bring in tourism. Meanwhile, inmates from the local insane asylum have escaped. The show, originally starring Angela Lansbury, only had nine performances.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ncyo8EUUCVE
Well, it seems as though this show “will never leave you.” This musical received a revival in 2014, but it had the same lack of success as the original Broadway production. This is a beautifully tragic story about twins in a freak show. Unfortunately, the amazing female power ballad duets weren’t enough to keep the show open after 91 performances (the revival only had 56).
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B-7loLNvDLA
This show, created by ABBA’s Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus, is about American and Russian chess champions who face off against each other during the Cold War. The show’s premise probably led to its early closing, with only 68 performances. However, its concept album was very successful and led to the popularity of “Anthem,” “One Night in Bangkok” and “Someone Else’s Story.”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0J1zN7PwPL8
This show about the “Peanuts” gang actually premiered in 1971, but you probably didn’t hear about it because there were only 32 performances. It wasn’t until the revival in 1999 with Kristin Chenoweth, Roger Bart and Anthony Rapp that this show was put on the map. It is now a crowd favorite and is very popular for school theatre productions.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JcVa_qe1itE
Sometimes shows just can’t figure out how to sell out at the box office. However, we can still enjoy them through cast albums, YouTube videos and — if we’re lucky — eventual revivals!
Broadway dresser Lacie Bonanni[/caption]
I always make sure I’m wearing an apron with multiple pockets. I make sure I have an array of safety pins and a little pair of scissors. And, you always want to have a light. I use a headlamp that looks like I’m going mining for coal. Some people use what’s called a “bite light,” a little light you put in your mouth and bite down on to give you some light backstage. Also water, Tylenol and some kind of chocolate for those two-show days.
This musical is everything that was so magical about Old Hollywood. The catchy songs, classic dance numbers, gorgeous costumes and old-school romance will melt your heart this holiday season. The live stage version usually makes the rounds in a national tour and also plays at regional theatres around the world during the holidays. Not able to catch it live? The film version is just as charming, with all-star performances from Hollywood legends Bing Crosby, Danny Kaye, Rosemary Clooney and Vera-Ellen.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QvX3krCL-Lo
Another classic charmer, “Holiday Inn” is sure to have you dancing. Interestingly, the film version of the show first featured the song “White Christmas,” sung by Bing Crosby, and was so popular that it spurred the creation of the musical film by the same name a decade later. “High School Musical’s” Corbin Bleu has put his dancing shoes back on to star in “Holiday Inn” on Broadway. While the musical differs from the film versions, both are a delightful dose of nostalgia for the holiday season.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n32JKaZoToY
Theatre Nerds have known for years that the best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing loud for all to hear. With that notion in mind, “Elf the Musical” was created for the Broadway stage in 2010 and still finds its way onto stages all over the country during the holidays. NBC also created a stop-motion version of the musical back in 2014, featuring the voice of Jim Parsons, aka Sheldon from “The Big Bang Theory.”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o9pMdNYWD9Q
Ralphie and the infamous leg lamp come to life in the musical stage adaptation of the beloved Christmas movie. The show has been enjoying a national tour this year, ending in Michigan at the end of December. You can also try to catch the show in one of the many regional productions that take place every year as well.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MQzcy1XeBcI
There’s a reason Dr. Seuss’ delightfully odd cast of characters has endured for all these years. Generations have grown up with the whimsical world of Whoville and the well-known songs that remind us of childhood Christmases. With two popular film versions, the original cartoon and a live-action film, it was only natural that a stage show be created as well. Check your local theatre scene for a live stage version, or curl up and enjoy one of the two film versions!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4LGKYp08T7A
If you happen to live in the Chicago area, you’re in luck! Catch all of your favorite Peanuts characters at the Broadway Playhouse throughout the holiday season. Charles Schultz’s Christmas classic has stood the test of time for more than 50 years, and it just wouldn’t be the holidays without his jazzy piano tunes. If you don’t own a copy of the original film, you can catch it on Dec. 22 on ABC.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GPG3zSgm_Qo
Burt Bacharach and Hal David wrote this hit musical comedy about a businessman trying to climb up the corporate ladder by letting his superiors use his apartment for secret rendezvous.
This Sherman Edwards musical about the Founding Fathers centers around John Adams and his efforts to convince people to sign the Declaration of Independence.
Galt MacDermot, James Rado and Gerome Ragni wrote this rock musical about bohemian hippies in New York who resist the Vietnam War, society’s norms and their conservative parents.
Inspired by “Don Quixote,” Mitch Leigh and Joe Darion’s musical is a play within a play that prisoners perform while Miguel de Cervantes waits for a hearing with the Spanish Inquisition.
This show by Sandy Wilson was Julie Andrews’ big break on Broadway. Set in the 1920s on the French Riviera, the musical tells the story of the girls who live at Madame Dubonnet’s School for Young Ladies.
Jim Jacob and Warren Casey’s musical, “Grease,” has been a classic since its 1971 debut. It has had countless revivals, and hundreds of high school productions are staged around the country every year.
Meredith Wilson’s classic story is about con artist band director Harold Hill, who tricks the town of River City into buying instruments for a phony band program. Meanwhile, he develops feelings for the local librarian.
Lionel Bart wrote the musical adaptation of Charles Dickens’ “Oliver Twist” with well-known songs such as “Consider Yourself,” “I’d Do Anything” and “Who Will Buy?”
In this modern musical adaptation of “The Wizard of Oz,” composer Charlie Smalls rewrote this timeless story in the context of African-American culture. The 1978 film version starred Diana Ross as Dorothy and Michael Jackson as the Scarecrow.
Even though these composers only produced one hit on the Great White Way, their works of art are truly timeless.
[post_title] => 9 One-Hit Wonders On Broadway
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Years later, it seems as though the residents of Stars Hollow have stayed pop-culture savvy. Throughout the original seasons, Lorelai’s frequent references to famous plays and musicals made her one of the biggest theatre nerds in town. In fact, the revival opens with Rory arriving home looking way too glam to have gone through annoying TSA lines. According to her mother, a more realistic look for someone fresh off a flight would be “singing ‘I Dreamed a Dream’ with a bad haircut.”
Lorelai certainly has a few other quips about the Great White Way — she references “Rock of Ages” and admits she’s seen “Kinky Boots” multiple times — but it’s mostly other characters who pay tribute to theatre. Big, bad, bossy Taylor Doose decides a gay pride parade should be the next event on the town’s calendar, and just in time for the anniversary of a Liza Minnelli record. Rory references a character from “Death of a Salesman,” while Logan Huntzberger apparently knows his “Fiddler on the Roof.”
Perhaps the most obvious of references comes in the form of the “Stars Hollow Musical,” an outrageous affair commissioned by none other than “Town Meeting” Taylor. Unlike the not-so-memorable Stars Hollow diorama back in Season 5, the musical is written by real-life Broadway composer Jeanine Tesori, who won a Tony Award for her “Fun Home” music last year. Playing the very odd lead roles are Broadway stars Sutton Foster and Christian Borle, who make this ultra-wacky production a treat for those who know them.
To dive into the endless world of artistic references in “Gilmore Girls” would be to go full-on Rory Gilmore and write a novel. However, diehard fans can easily pinpoint some of the season’s best homages. Here are some of our favorites:
Coffee? Tea? Caffeinated sports beverage? Whatever your drink of choice is, stock up on it now. Tech week doesn’t care about your beauty sleep.
For all those anxiety-ridden moments when you have no idea how those set changes and lighting cues will come together.
To say a little prayer — or perhaps incense is more your speed. It’s okay, thespians are notoriously superstitious. You do you.
...To tune everyone out. There’s a lot of hubbub happening from every which way during tech, so sometimes you need to zen out for a sec.
Other times, you need something special to pep you up and get yourself ready for some hard work and long hours under some very hot lights.
Who doesn’t love a good inspirational quote above their dressing room mirror? Plus, you’re inspiring all those around you, too. It’s a win-win!
Whether you do it in the wings, in the green room or between cues, taking a little time to center yourself and give your lumbar a little extra love never hurt anyone.
The action during tech week tends to come in spurts for actors, so expect to spend some serious downtime at the theatre. You can only run your lines so many times, so you’re going to eventually want to stimulate your mind with words that aren’t spoken by your character.
Whenever you can, for as long as you can. Now is not the time to get sick.
When rehearsal runs late and you’re run down, it’s easy to sleep through that buzzing alarm. Something a little stronger may be in order during tech.
It’s important to eat healthy foods, but don’t take this as an opportunity to go on a crash diet so you look that much better in your costume. Take care of yourself and your body — you’re going to need the energy.
‘Cause you can never have enough.
Think a sewing kit, Band-Aids, body tape, snacks, extra water, breath mints and Advil...lots of Advil.
For those of us who don’t have personal assistants, keeping track of your schedule is the next best thing to get you through the most hectic week of your life.
This can be used for sleeping or your inevitable bout of tears. You know you’re going to cry at some point, but you just don’t know yet whether they’ll be happy tears or sad tears.
$27.00[/caption]
Give your favorite book lover a behind-the-scenes look at the making of the musical and the historical content that made it possible.
$18.00[/caption]
This compilation edition of Gregory Maguire’s best-selling novels were the basis for the Tony Award-winning musical.
$4+[/caption]
Never lose your page again with these adorable magnetic markers. Give them as a set, or spread the love.
$15.00[/caption]
Hold all of your fan-wares in a gift fancy enough for the queen of elegance herself, Dame Julie Andrews.
$16.95[/caption]
Right from our very own Swag Shop. Join the revolution with this tri-layer necklace It comes in an organic pouch, which makes it perfect for gift giving! (although we won't tell if it's just for you)
$19.99[/caption]
Whether you’re bringing it to the gym, dance practice or even rehearsal, these totes are great for holding all the essentials.
$4.90[/caption]
$8.23[/caption]
$8.87[/caption]
$32.99[/caption]
What says "Theatre Nerd" more than showing everyone how THEATRE should really be spelled. Available in tees, hoodies, mugs, & more.
$19.99[/caption]
Our best selling clothing design let's you warn the others before breaking into that ham-jam.
$19.99[/caption]
Guaranteed closest shave in town!
$84.00[/caption]
$45.99[/caption]
Keep track of all of your assignments and rehearsals while being inspired by your favorite shows.
$14.95[/caption]
The perfect way to say sorry while you're drinking coffee backstage :)
Also available in tees, hoodies, & tanks
$32.99[/caption]
$27.99[/caption]
$40.00[/caption]
Light up the music with the night with this unique piece for the person in your life who is impossible to buy for. There is also a “Wicked” lantern available.
$5.00[/caption]
Though she has now achieved total queen status, Audra McDonald was once an ambitious Juilliard student. During her final audition for the renowned performing arts school, McDonald sang a classical aria without knowing anything about classical music, according to the Academy of Achievement. She proceeded to sing a mezzo soprano song after mentioning she was a lyric soprano. Of course, the Tony Award winner went on to land a spot at the prestigious institution. While this might not be the craziest of stories, we feel better knowing even McDonald’s auditions weren’t perfect.
Though this “Bridges of Madison County” star was sure he killed it singing “Anthem” during an audition, a well-known casting director was less than impressed. In a Playbill interview, Pasquale said the experience quickly went south.
“[He asked me] if I studied singing, and that if I didn’t, I should. Then, he insulted the way I looked, and that was that,” Pasquale said.
Oops! Though he didn’t get the role, he was later given many offers by the director (only to refuse them) and has gone on to have a successful Broadway career.
This Broadway sweetheart recently played Carnegie Hall, but like many dedicated theatre nerds, Kelli O’Hara spent many years on that audition flow. In her early days as an aspiring NYC actress, she unknowingly encountered world-famous composer Marvin Hamlisch in an audition. In an effort to speed up her song, she snapped her fingers at Hamlisch to pick up the tempo on the piano, according to Playbill. Yikes. Fortunately, Hamlisch apparently found it charming and the part was hers.
This memorable newsie found himself in a pickle during his final callback for “Wicked.”
“I sang/read, and then they had me come back and dance an hour later,” Cott told Playbill. “So I went to a Payless three blocks down and bought a pair of black sneakers.”
He returned the shoes after the dance audition — and landed the part!
During her final audition for “Mary Poppins,” this West End star was dished a spoonful of...salt? And by famed producer Cameron Mackintosh no less! According to Playbill, Strallen heard Mackintosh say, “Your hairstyle looks like a lampshade, dear!” Luckily, the insult broke the ice and helped her gain the confidence she needed.
Though “Galavant” features all original music, it tends to borrow a couple of tricks and triads from classic musical theatre. The ditty “Dwarves vs. Giants” pits against each other two similarly sized gangs a la “Tonight” in “West Side Story,” while peasants led by an overzealous Sid charge a castle to the tune of “Today We Rise,” which is oddly close to “Can You Hear the People Sing?” from “Les Miserables.” However, this song spends a lot more time discussing all the terrible things that will happen to them as part of their rebellion and how much they’ll all regret doing so tomorrow. Theatre fans will also appreciate the love song “Finally,” which gets pretty close to “Summer Nights,” if “Grease” featured love-obsessed zombies instead of 1950s teenagers.
Launching into “Galavant,” it doesn’t take long for the evil king fantasy trope to melt away as you get to know King Richard, who balances his unprecipitated ruthlessness with a childlike desire to be liked and taken seriously as a king. Watching this character’s transformation over the two seasons is both fascinating and utterly entertaining, and Timothy Omundson nails every second of it.
John Stamos might not be the first person who comes to mind when you think about medieval musicals, but he’s just one of many celebs who join in on all the song and dance of “Galavant.” Stamos, who plays Sir Jean Hamm, a jousting competitor with a penchant for Yo Mama jokes, and is joined by the ranks of Weird Al, who plays a monk who has taken a vow of silence (except for singing, obviously), and Ricky Gervais, who plays a spiritual guide named Xanax who helps King Richard face some truths about his past. Other guest stars include “Downton Abbey’s” Hugh Bonneville playing a landlocked pirate captain and Kylie Minogue playing the sultry owner of a medieval gay bar -- are you intrigued yet?
One great thing about “Galavant” is that it really played up its meta side and knew it was on the chopping block for the majority of its time on air. The fact that it got a second season surprised many people, leading to the first episode of that season to be titled “Suck It, Cancellation Bear.” The first episode even began with a song with the lines, “Skip the football matches / and the globes made out of gold / Screw all those apprentices / and every bachelorette / Give into the miracle that no one thought we’d get!” Catching all the subtle digs at the network and all the pop culture references is reason enough to watch it multiple times through.
The love stories of “Galavant” don’t always show off the most romantic sides of love — after all, Season 1 songs include “Maybe You’re Not the Worst Thing Ever” and “Love Is Strange.” But, you have to admit, there are some excellent pairings on this show, from Cook and Gwynne to Isabella and Galavant to Roberta and King Richard.
Even the villains are stupidly cute together — the notoriously stoic Gareth sings the greatest love song of all, where he describes his heart as “this chunk of my chest keeps flum-flumpin’ away” and his lovesick smile as “my lip-ends, look how they twist up!” Sigh...that’s the kind of love you only read about in books.
And yes, the show has plenty of beautiful bromances as well, with the budding friendship between King Richard and Galavant in Season 2 and the loyalty between Gareth and King Richard in Season 1.
Though watching “Galavant” might make you want to shake the TV screaming “WHY? WHY WERE YOU CANCELED SO SOON?!” there is hope for another iteration of the Galavant story in our favorite spot: the stage. Rumors continue to fly that “Galavant” will live on in the form of a musical, which we can only hope will come to fruition sooner rather than later. With other shows such as “Smash” morphing into concerts and musicals, it remains to be seen how this short-lived legend could continue beyond the confines of television.
You’re about to make your entrance, and suddenly, you can’t find that all-important phone you need to answer during your scene or some other inanimate object that’s essential to you not looking like a total fool in the next 30 seconds. And no, making a fake phone with your fingers is not going to cut it.
There’s nothing quite like that moment when all your backstage hijinks can be heard by the audience and the fourth wall has definitely, definitely been broken.
Whether you have to attend your cousin’s wedding, jury duty or your high school graduation, life happens — and so does rehearsal. You’d sooner miss your own prom than miss rehearsal, so how do you choose?
You’re two days away from opening night and your voice suddenly sounds less like a soaring soprano and more like … well, nothing at all. Yep, it’s okay to freak out.
Actors tend to have special attachments to their makeup boxes and the contents inside, so when they’re messed with, it sparks a fury no one ever thought a missing eye pencil could cause. No words can describe your feelings when you can’t find your cold cream after a show.
It’s a terrifying moment at any audition when someone sings the same 16 bars you’re about to sing. You know it’s bound to happen sometimes, but it’s still a total bummer when it happens to you.
Whether you have to memorize too many lines in a small amount of time or have too few lines than you thought you’d have, line counting always brings out the anxiety in any actor.
A missing wardrobe piece is just as bad as a missing prop — or worse, depending on what it is. Tap dancing with one shoe is pretty bad, but missing your pants might be just a teensy bit worse.
The dreaded cast list posting is sure to cause a fuss one way or another. Whether your director is taking too long to post it or your name isn’t where you thought it would be on the list, you’re gonna need an antacid and a yoga class to get your nerves untangled after it goes up.
Dressing room real estate is a big deal. As much as you love your castmates, you don’t love it so much when their wig head and flat iron end up in your prep area.
You’re onstage, it’s your cue and your mind is totally blank — except for the part that’s freaking out wondering whether it would be better to make a jump for it into the orchestra pit.
No actor likes it when his or her lines are stepped on. You may accept that this happens sometimes, but when it becomes a chronic problem, you tend to go just a little crazy.
It’s cool, you just have to change out of your costume completely and switch your hairstyle and makeup in 20 seconds. No need to freak out; it’s plenty of time. Oh, don’t forget you have to run through the lobby first to enter from the opposite side of the stage. Totally cool.
You’re trying to quiet your mind and center yourself before your big, dramatic entrance, and a fellow thespian won’t stop whisper-talking your ear off. Hey, zip it!
Your choreographer expects you to be the next Baryshnikov in your “Guys and Dolls” number; meanwhile, you’re still trying to master the plié.
Your laugh lines didn’t get any laughs, so you blame the acoustics and then go home to cry into your pillow.
Located on West 44th Street in the Theatre District, Sardi’s Restaurant is the ultimate tourist destination for the Broadway enthusiast. Sardi’s is best known for its collection of caricatures from the Broadway scene. This tradition began when Vincent Sardi decided to recreate a restaurant in Paris with caricatures of film celebrities. Instead, he honored Broadway. He hired artist Alex Gard to draw the caricatures, and he continued to draw in exchange for free meals until he died in 1948. Sardi’s is also the famous site of where Brock Pemberton created the idea of the Tony Awards to honor Antoinette Perry.
sardis.com
Ellen’s Stardust Diner in Times Square is not just a dining experience — it is also a 1950s-style diner with a singing waitstaff, the Stardusters. You can eat some classic American food while hearing your favorite Broadway showtunes and other popular songs. Open from 7 a.m. to midnight, it’s the perfect place to grab some grub with the family before a matinee or evening show.
ellensstardustdiner.com
Shubert Alley, which links West 44th and 45th streets, earned its name from successful producers Lee and Jacob J. Schubert, whose offices overlooked the alley. It originally functioned as an exit for the Shubert and Booth theaters, and actors were often seen lining up in the alley for audition calls. Today, Shubert Alley is not only an iconic landmark for show business, but it is the location of many popular Broadway events, such as Stars in the Alley, Broadway Barks and Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS Flea Market and Auction. Shubert Alley is also home to One Shubert Alley, a gift shop exclusively for Broadway lovers and theatre nerds.
Located on West 46th Street, Joe Allen Restaurant is Sardi’s antithesis. Instead of glorifying Broadway’s greatest accomplishments, it celebrates all the flops that have come and gone on the Great White Way. The tradition started when the cast of the show “Kelly” gave the restaurant a poster for their show. When the show closed after one performance, Joe Allen decided he might as well hang it up in the restaurant. While no producer hopes to see their show on the wall in Joe Allen’s, it’s nice to know that even the most unlucky Broadway shows aren’t forgotten.
joeallenrestaurant.com
The Drama Book Shop is hands-down the best resource for theatrical material in NYC. It has a supply of over 8,000 plays and is the working actor’s dreamland. The shop also has a black box theatre in the basement, workshops upstairs and a balcony of musical scores in addition to a plethora of resources for anyone in show business. Find a comfy chair and browse through plays to find your next go-to monologue!
dramabookshop.com
If you want to experience the thrill of a Broadway show in a more relaxed setting, look no further than Broadway’s living room, Feinstein’s/54 Below. This nightclub and dining atmosphere hosts up to three shows per night, so there is always something fun to see! A popular hangout for Broadway stars to blow off steam, let loose, and give intimate concerts. If you’re currently a student with a high school or college ID, it offers half-price student rush tickets 30 minutes before the show. Or, if you only want to get a quick, quality meal, pre-show dining starts at 5 p.m. and goes until around 6:30 p.m. If you want to see some of your favorite Broadway stars and enjoy a night of live music, stop by West 54th Street between Broadway and 8th for an elegant night on the town!
54below.com
Because, appropriate…
Seriously. Get a life, Javert.
We can’t even argue.
There’s also a bizarre number of “‘Mean Girls”-related “Les Mis” memes.
See?
We told you. “Les Mis” and “Mean Girls” are a match made in heaven.
Really.
There’s so many. (And we love them.)
This one was practically asking to be made.
There are even non-‘Les Mis’ ‘Les Mis’ memes
Including this one with the most miserable of them all, Grumpy Cat!
When you can commiserate with Aladdin...
But... it's pretty much true!
Javert, master of disguise.
Touche.
Reasonable.
Les Miserable photoshop skills.
“...and memes were made and used and wasted…”
And that's a wrap folks!
Well, consider this: For a person with so much power, directors have surprisingly little control. It’s this fact that will ultimately drive any director a little crazy.
You see, a good director approaches each project with a vision and master plan. In their minds, they create an ideal idea upon which the entire show is based.
Directors surround themselves with helpers to create this vision. The designers take the idea and make it a reality, the stage manager keeps everyone on time, on task and on spot, the actors bring it to life and the crew puts in the hard labor to make it all happen.
Directors work with all of them and do their best to get what is in their head out onto the stage. And, they are on the lookout for people who will do the same. But, it’s a competitive world out there. What can you do to prove you’re the best person for the job? How are you going to stand out?
The following are five things you can do to impress your director and help bring their vision of the show to life:
However, a good director will never give up on that vision and will therefore talk until they die if that means they’ll be able to get you to heed what they say. You might as well make peace with it and stop talking during notes. Who knows? It may even mean you get out of rehearsal at a (relatively) reasonable hour.
Personal space just doesn’t work in theatre. We’re not just talking about physical space, which you can expect will be intruded upon immediately upon meeting the costume crew and their endless supply of measuring tape. We’re also talking about intellectual and emotional space.
There should be a disclaimer on every audition sheet that reads, “This show contains emotions and, if cast, you will be expected to connect. Can you do this? Check yes or no.”
Good theatre is visceral. It’s intimate. It’s personal. You cannot have a great show if you aren’t committed to that. You have to let your guard down and let people in. You have to share your feelings and connect with the material and the other people you are working with. As a natural introvert, I can totally understand how hard it can be to tear down those inner walls. But once you do, you’ll find a power within yourself that you never knew you had. You will get rave reviews, the admiration of your peers and the deepest respect of your director.
So, when you’re offstage, you need to learn to do a special backstage tiptoe walk. Heels and tap shoes should stay off your feet until just before your cue to enter. You have to learn to communicate by reading lips and gesticulating wildly. It’s the quietest — and most intense — game of charades you’ll ever play in your life. If you feel a sneeze or cough coming on, run like the dickens (quietly, of course) to the dressing room to let it out.
Onstage is entirely different. When you’re onstage, the director never seems to hear you, unless you don’t want them to. It’s something about the acoustics.
According to a great professor I once had, the following are the three rules of elocution:
Directors, don’t forget to encourage this, too. It promotes participation and trust, keeps everyone on their toes and ensures people are invested. Most importantly, it makes rehearsals more relaxed and fun, which is why everyone participates in this in the first place.
By keeping these five things in mind, you can make your director love you — and you want your director to love you. Most directors tend to be very loyal and like working with people they know and trust. Essentially, theatre is a big gamble. No one wants to fail, so directors make safe bets by getting the best people on board. Once you’ve proven to a director that you are a tried-and-true talent, you can make your own bets that you will be one of the first people they turn to.
I’m here to help you tell the story of the show as best as you can. That can’t happen if your shoes are too small, your pants too big, or if you keep tripping on your skirt’s hem. I’m happy to resolve any issues, but you have to communicate with me.
The actor who gives another actor a note. *BIG SIGH* As much as you want to scream “no, no, no” to them and explain acting etiquette 101, just nod your head and try to ignore them. Let them think you’re daft for not taking their brilliant insight and try to forget it.
It’s show time and they still aren’t off-book. Nothing like a not knowing what’s going to come out of their mouth next to keep you in the moment! This is a scenario where knowing all the lines and the layout of the scene is key so you can recover any blunders or dropped lines.
Everyone has worked with that one actor who’s just a little off. It can be unsettling. It can be brilliant. It can cause you ulcers. Do your best to roll with the punches and chalk it up to experience.
The scene partner who takes the on-stage physical aggression too far. This is never okay. If you ever feel unsafe on-stage speak to your director ASAP.
This actor has a chip on their shoulder and feels the need to argue with everyone including the director. Best to stay out of it and create distance from the arguer. Never provoke the arguer no matter how entertaining.
We’ve all known one. We’ve all been one. Just tell them how pretty they are and hope for the best.
The actor who improvises during a scripted scene when improving is not welcomed. It can be disorienting, it can throw off the timing, it can occasionally, be brilliant. That said, it’s best not to improvise if it’s not what the piece or the director calls for unless it’s out of necessity as in a dropped line. If you’re stuck with the unwelcomed improviser stay on your toes, stay in the moment, and enjoy the ride.
Bad breath, body odor, dirty clothes… you name it. Not much you can do other than offering a breath mint or spritz some Febreze around the stage.
The stage hog is the one who literally pushes you out of your light. Politely speak up and mention that you need to be in your light in order to be seen. The director and the tech department will have your back on this one.
Wastes all your rehearsal time sharing their brilliant insights into the script and their character’s inner thought process instead of running lines. Tell them you never knew how smart they were, then quickly change the topic to the ticking clock and your need to run the scene a few more times.
The darn right mean-spirited kind. This scene partner breeds toxicity while putting you and your other cast mates down. Best to be the bigger person and try to find some common ground. The meanie needs love. If that fails, give yourself some self-love and call it a day.
You have to do a kissing scene and your partner acts like you have cooties. Don’t take it personally, it can be a nerve-racking time and sometimes that makes people act weird. Break the ice with a joke and try to make them feel as comfortable as possible.
The space cadet is off in la la land and drops all their cues. This can be great practice for you on thinking on your feet. Challenge yourself to connect with them more on-stage in order to keep them focused and on planet earth.
This one cancels your rehearsal and reschedules it over and over again. Scream into your pillow then politely explain that your time is valuable too and please stick to a time and date.
Post by Ashleigh Gardner from PerformerStuff.com [post_title] => 10 Female Monologues From Love-Sick Characters [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => 10-female-monologues-from-love-sick-characters [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2016-11-03 09:55:15 [post_modified_gmt] => 2016-11-03 13:55:15 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => http://theatrenerds.com/?p=5288 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 1 [filter] => raw ) [33] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 5263 [post_author] => 395 [post_date] => 2016-11-02 09:54:37 [post_date_gmt] => 2016-11-02 13:54:37 [post_content] => So, you didn’t get a part in the show you auditioned for. You’re understandably, disappointed, confused, overwhelmed and wondering what on earth you did wrong. There’s no question that you are absolutely justified in feeling upset and even angry when you don’t see your name up on the cast list. Even though it may feel like all your theatre-related hopes and dreams have been crushed for good, there are still plenty of ways you can get involved with the production even if you aren’t actually onstage. In fact, getting involved in the department and becoming a more visible presence can even boost your chances of getting a role the next round of auditions.
Even if you don’t have the slightest clue what the difference is between a phillips screwdriver and slot screwdriver and haven’t yielded a hammer since, well, never, there’s no time like the present! In addition to playing an integral role in creating the set pieces and scenery of the show, you’ll learn invaluable skills that you can carry with you for years to come. Plus, you’ll even get a little bit of time onstage — granted, you’ll be clad head-to-toe in black and be frantically shuffling around set pieces in the dark, but the thrill is still totally worth it.
If the idea of spending a few months casually dangling from a wooden ladder is a bit too much for you, you may feel more comfortable pitching in with the props department. Being involved in props is great if you enjoy a challenge, as you’ll spend a lot of time on an unparallelled treasure hunt for items more random and ridiculous than you ever could have imagined. However, once you’ve collected all your items, be prepared to lose them constantly, as actors have a bad habit of playing around with props that are definitely not theirs.
Okay, so maybe you didn’t get to unleash your inner diva under the warm glow of a spotlight. But that doesn’t mean you can’t show off your fashionista side by creating, collecting and fitting gorgeous costumes for the cast! Half the fun is spending an inordinate amount of time in the costume shed trying stuff on for funsies, and the other half is watching your creations come to life onstage as you nail down the perfect costume.
If you like the idea of being off in your own little world, lights could be the perfect way to get involved with the theatre department. Tucked away in your booth, you get a bird’s-eye view into the action below and are responsible for those moments that take the show from “meh” to “WOW.” Besides, the experience is great for any other event that needs someone who knows how to operate the lights — you’ll be in high demand.
Sure, the title “Director’s Assistant” can make you sound a lot like Anne Hathaway’s character in “The Devil Wears Prada.” You might think you’re dooming yourself to weeks upon weeks of fetching lattes and takeout pizza, but there’s a lot more that goes into this job than just that. Directors have approximately a billion things on their mind at once, and you can play a big role in helping to alleviate some of those challenges and running errands that are vital to the production. Besides, what better way than to get some facetime with the person making next year’s casting decisions than being literally attached to their hip?
If you want to get known by your director without spending months upon months hanging out backstage, working on a front-of-house crew could be the best job for you. Here, you’ll be responsible for ticket sales, prepping food that audience members can purchase at intermission and making programs for the show. Additional responsibilities include dancing in the lobby in a spot where the actors can see you from the stage so they start to crack up — or maybe that’s just what my best friends in high school did. Maybe don’t take my advice on that one.
So maybe your singing voice is a little more “Miranda Sings” than Laura Benanti, but you’ve been rocking out on the trumpet in band for years. Satisfy that urge to perform by auditioning to join the orchestra for the show. You get all the fun of showbiz without the months of rehearsals and still get to show off your talent in a spot where you’ll really shine.
Another option if you don’t make it into the cast is to join the sound crew. You’ll work with any live or recorded music and sound effects and manage the actors’ microphones. It’s a trying task, as everyone will definitely notice when backstage shenanigans are picked up by a rogue mic and projected to the entire audience. You’ll also get to play around with several sources of sound effects, and nothing is more fun than scrolling through a library of sounds to find the one that’s juuuuuust right for your show.
Who run the world? Stage managers. Who run the world? Stage managers. But really, from the second rehearsals start to the second the curtain falls on closing night, the stage manager is an absolutely vital asset to the show running smoothly. If you get a thrill out of organization and thrive off high stakes, you might love sitting just offstage coordinating all the moving pieces of the show through a tiny headset. If you consider yourself a people-person, this could be the job for you, as you’ll have to manage actors, techies, props masters, costumes and front-of-house staff while working closely with the director. Don’t think you’re quite ready to hold the fate of the show in your hands? Offer to be an assistant stage manager to learn the ropes.
Though it’s no secret that it can be tough to watch a show come to life without you actually performing in it, you can still play your own special role behind the scenes. And who knows? Maybe you’ll stumble upon your secret passion along the way.
If you had the privilege of growing up a dancer, you’ve probably heard the cautionary tale of the ballerina who caught on fire during a performance. Details of the tale may have been fudged during the backstage gossip, but regardless, you knew you better not stand too close to the lights in your tutu otherwise you might have ended up like Emma Livry, the ballet prodigy of the romantic era, that is, until her untimely death.
The story begins with Emma waiting in the wings before her second act grand entrance. As she steadied herself for her performance she made the fatal mistake of fluffing her tutu next to a gaslight. Her skirt burst into flames sending Livry into a panic as she ran onto stage screaming and running around frantically in circles all while the audience and other dancers watched on in horror. Eventually, a fireman and another dancer helped to put out the flames but Emma’s burns were extensive. In an effort to be modest, she had clasped the fabric of her corset to her torso causing the corset to melt into her ribs. Additionally, she suffered burns on forty percent of her body including her waist, back, shoulders, thighs, and arms.
Emma spent the next eight months recuperating but ultimately died of sepsis upon the reopening of her wounds. Perhaps the most tragic part of Livry’s death was that it was all too avoidable. A fireproofing method for costumes was available and it was Livry herself who insisted against it due to the yellowness and stiff feel it gave the fabric. As if that weren’t bad enough, Ms. Livry didn’t even learn her lesson. During her recovery she remained opposed to fire-proof skirts: “ Yes, they are, as you say, less dangerous, but should I ever return to the stage, I would never think of wearing them- they are so ugly.”
France’s Greatest Playwright, Jean-Baptiste Poquelin, better known by his stage name, Molière, died in the most dramatic of fashions- while he was on stage performing. Molière had long been suffering from tuberculosis, a condition he was thought to have acquired during a prison stay due to debt. Tuberculosis or not, nothing was going to stop him from pursuing his artistic endeavors.
The tragic night was set during a royal performance before King Louis the 14th. Ironically, the performance was Le Malade imaginaire (The Imaginary Invalid, AKA, the Hypochondriac) it was during this performance that Molière began to cough and gasp uncontrollably until he collapsed and began to hemorrhage. The performance stalled but, briefly, and Molière insisted that the show go on. After bravely forging his way through the rest of the play, despite a secondary collapse, he finally made it home. Hours later, Molière passed away. Sadly, he was denied his last rites, which led to a rumor that his soul didn’t make it to heaven, and that his ghost is still lurking about. On the night of his death, Molière’s costume was green; offsetting the superstition that green is an unlucky color to wear on-stage.
The Theatre Royal, Drury Lane, is the oldest operating theatre in London and is quite possibly the most haunted. Although there are many ghosts that have shown up at Drury Lane, it is the ghost referred to as The Man in Grey that is perhaps the most popular. The Man in Grey is thought to be the ghost of a man who’d been stabbed to death and whose remains were found in 1848 inside a passage of the theatre that had been walled up. The Man in Grey is said to dress like a nobleman of the late 18th century donned with a tricorne hat, dress jacket, cloak, riding boots, and sword. The ghost is said to lurk about between the fourth row and the royal box, which is near the spot in the wall where his remains were found.
You may already know that the Palais Garnier theatre in Paris is the setting for the famous novel and musical, Phantom of the Opera. What you may not know is that the writer, Gastón Leroux was a French journalist whose specialty was investigative journalism on real-life incidents; Leroux’s famous tale, is indeed full of many real-life truths. For instance, the lake of water under the theatre is real, it’s actually more of a water tank, but it’s a body of water under the theatre. Also, the chandelier in the theatre really did fall, not only that, it killed someone. Yikes! Creepier still, is the disfigured contractor that helped build the theatre and who lurked about wearing a mask to hide his unsettling appearance. The man, named Erik (yeah, really!) was born disfigured and abandoned by his family, joined the circus, and eventually became an architect, of sorts. He was even said to walk about wearing dress suits and a cloak. Erik also had his own personal box to watch the performances without being seen. The creepiest part is that he really did fall in love with a singer who performed at the Garnier and he kidnapped her! Luckily, she was found and fled Paris. Erik was so distraught he walled himself up into his apartment under the opera house and ultimately died of starvation. Some time later his suspected remains were found, wearing a gold ring that he was known to wear.
If these stories don’t give you a newfound respect for the spookiness of the theatre than I leave you with this bit of trivia: The ghost light in theatres generally serves a practical use- safety; however, it’s there for superstitious reasons too- to appease the ghosts that are thought to haunt each theatre. The light remains on stage long after the actors go home so that the ghosts may perform thus, preventing them from cursing the theatre. So leave those ghost lights on and have a Happy Halloween!!!
This is the most professional option and should be taken by those seeking to legitimately interview a Broadway star. If you’re not doing that, feel free to scroll down to another method. On occasion, publicists or managers will arrange meet and greets, but it’s important to do your research before you reach out.
After your incessant Google searching has produced the current contact information, it’s time for your pitch. Send an email to the star’s rep telling them why you want to speak with their client and why they should let you (you’re basically sharing your own credentials). Broadway folks are usually very generous about doing interviews (even if they’re informal and just for you), but you should remember they are busy people and be respectful of their time.
You’ve stood in the pouring rain, you’ve pushed through crowds and you’ve even jumped out of your seat halfway through the finale — all so you could reserve the best possible spot at the stage door and meet that star. But, have you tried “stage-dooring” (we’ve decided that’s a verb now) a show when you’re not actually seeing it?
The best way to ensure you’re standing right up against that metal gate and directly across the stage door is to get there while the show’s still going on. Pick a show, grab some Starbucks and wait outside the stage door before you know the show is going to get out. Even getting there 10 minutes before the curtain will make a huge difference. This will give you the optimal chance of meeting your favorite star (assuming they’re on that night)!
Sometimes that star you’d do anything to meet isn’t in a show (#depressing) or has moved on to TV and film roles (#ByeSuttonFoster), so there’s no way for a stage door meetup. Cheer up! Many of these stars still do press!
There are plenty of lesser-known talk shows that need to get butts in their studio seats. Some companies will even pay you to fill them (check out On Set Productions)! A great option in New York City is the BUILD Series, a live interview show produced by AOL and Verizon. Everyone from actors to athletes grace the BUILD stage, but you’re obviously more interested in the Broadway folks. And man, do they get a ton! To drop a few names, Lesli Margherita, Kristin Chenoweth, Christian Borle, Sutton Foster and Bernadette Peters have all been seen here.
As a bonus, BUILD’s resident Broadway moderator is Laura Heywood (Broadway Girl herself), who provides delicious tidbits, asks smart questions and speaks the voice of theatre nerds everywhere. The last portion of the taping is an audience Q&A, which means you can ask your favorite star that question that’s been burning in the back of your mind forever (unless it’s super weird or you’re shaking too hard to speak). The greatest part is that when the show is over, audience members have an opportunity to snap a quick picture with their favorite star (as time permits).
By the blessings of the theatre gods, most Broadway talent takes a spin starring in their own cabaret show or participating in a concert. Look out for your star at venues such as 54 Below or Birdland. These intimate spots give you the chance to watch your idol in action very close up. Your star is more likely to hang out and chat with fans after, too, considering these shows are extremely personal and it means a lot to them to have your support.
If you’re pounding the concrete pavement of New York City hoping to nab a role in any show that will have you, gaining insight from your favorite Broadway star is a must. The good news is that performers are some of the kindest souls out there, and they love giving back. From people at the height of their career to staples in Broadway ensembles, the members of the Broadway community are constantly instructing workshops for aspiring performers.
This is obviously not the option for people just looking for a quick selfie or hug, but if you’re hoping to make a connection and learn from your idol, there’s nothing better. Look into companies like RPP for master classes!
1. Reach Out to Their Publicist or Manager
This is the most professional option and should be taken by those seeking to legitimately interview a Broadway star. If you’re not doing that, feel free to scroll down to another method. On occasion, publicists or managers will arrange meet and greets, but it’s important to do your research before you reach out.
After your incessant Google searching has produced the current contact information, it’s time for your pitch. Send an email to the star’s rep telling them why you want to speak with their client and why they should let you (you’re basically sharing your own credentials). Broadway folks are usually very generous about doing interviews (even if they’re informal and just for you), but you should remember they are busy people and be respectful of their time.
2. Stage-Door It Like a Pro
You’ve stood in the pouring rain, you’ve pushed through crowds and you’ve even jumped out of your seat halfway through the finale — all so you could reserve the best possible spot at the stage door and meet that star. But, have you tried “stage-dooring” (we’ve decided that’s a verb now) a show when you’re not actually seeing it?
The best way to ensure you’re standing right up against that metal gate and directly across the stage door is to get there while the show’s still going on. Pick a show, grab some Starbucks and wait outside the stage door before you know the show is going to get out. Even getting there 10 minutes before the curtain will make a huge difference. This will give you the optimal chance of meeting your favorite star (assuming they’re on that night)!
3. Attend a Live Talk Show
Sometimes that star you’d do anything to meet isn’t in a show (#depressing) or has moved on to TV and film roles (#ByeSuttonFoster), so there’s no way for a stage door meetup. Cheer up! Many of these stars still do press!
There are plenty of lesser-known talk shows that need to get butts in their studio seats. Some companies will even pay you to fill them (check out On Set Productions)! A great option in New York City is the BUILD Series, a live interview show produced by AOL and Verizon. Everyone from actors to athletes grace the BUILD stage, but you’re obviously more interested in the Broadway folks. And man, do they get a ton! To drop a few names, Lesli Margherita, Kristin Chenoweth, Christian Borle, Sutton Foster and Bernadette Peters have all been seen here.
As a bonus, BUILD’s resident Broadway moderator is Laura Heywood (Broadway Girl herself), who provides delicious tidbits, asks smart questions and speaks the voice of theatre nerds everywhere. The last portion of the taping is an audience Q&A, which means you can ask your favorite star that question that’s been burning in the back of your mind forever (unless it’s super weird or you’re shaking too hard to speak). The greatest part is that when the show is over, audience members have an opportunity to snap a quick picture with their favorite star (as time permits).
4. Go to a Concert
By the blessings of the theatre gods, most Broadway talent takes a spin starring in their own cabaret show or participating in a concert. Look out for your star at venues such as 54 Below or Birdland. These intimate spots give you the chance to watch your idol in action very close up. Your star is more likely to hang out and chat with fans after, too, considering these shows are extremely personal and it means a lot to them to have your support.
5. Social Media
https://twitter.com/LauraBenanti/status/485608584353312768?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw Social media obviously won’t necessarily let you come face-to-face with your favorite Broadway performer, but it can let you speak with them. Plus, lots of stars encourage you to reach out! Some will even go live on Facebook or hold contests on their Twitter page. Try commenting on their Facebook post or tweeting them a well-thought-out question. Social media is also a great tool for letting you know where that star is — not to say you should stalk them! For example, check out that person’s social pages before you wait by the stage door in the cold rain. Stars are known to write little apologies on Twitter if they can’t linger at the stage door after a show.6. Take a Master Class With Them
If you’re pounding the concrete pavement of New York City hoping to nab a role in any show that will have you, gaining insight from your favorite Broadway star is a must. The good news is that performers are some of the kindest souls out there, and they love giving back. From people at the height of their career to staples in Broadway ensembles, the members of the Broadway community are constantly instructing workshops for aspiring performers.
This is obviously not the option for people just looking for a quick selfie or hug, but if you’re hoping to make a connection and learn from your idol, there’s nothing better. Look into companies like RPP for master classes!
Has one of these methods worked for you? Do you have a great story about meeting your favorite Broadway performer? Let us know in the comments below...
[post_title] => 6 Non-Creepy Ways To Meet Your Favorite Broadway Star [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => 6-non-creepy-ways-to-meet-your-favorite-broadway-star [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2017-01-01 17:13:36 [post_modified_gmt] => 2017-01-01 21:13:36 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => http://theatrenerds.com/?p=6117 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 4 [filter] => raw ) [1] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 5649 [post_author] => 11 [post_date] => 2016-12-24 11:41:56 [post_date_gmt] => 2016-12-24 15:41:56 [post_content] => [viralQuiz id=24] [post_title] => Quiz: Which "Mamma Mia!" Song Best Describes Your Life? [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => which-mamma-mia-song-best-describes-your-life [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2016-12-24 11:42:46 [post_modified_gmt] => 2016-12-24 15:42:46 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => http://theatrenerds.com/?p=5649 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [2] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 3697 [post_author] => 1 [post_date] => 2016-12-23 13:12:02 [post_date_gmt] => 2016-12-23 17:12:02 [post_content] => When we think of a child’s audition, most of us think of the “drama mamas” out there or the little girls playing Matilda on Broadway, and we become overwhelmed. Trust me, you’re not alone. This was my first thought when I woke up to a Broadway World EPA notice for the role of Small Alison in the National Tour of Fun Home. My head started swirling with the worst possible scenarios, like the Dance Mom/Theatre Mom stereotype, not being able to audition (mainly because I am non-Equity/non-union, which means I have to wait for all the Equity kids to audition first, then pray to be seen) among other things. But, on January 2nd, 2016, I decided to face my “fear” of child auditions in New York City and go try for the role of Small Alison in the National Tour of Fun Home. Let me give you a little background on myself. I am a very small seventeen-year-old girl, standing at only five feet tall. (I was sixteen at the time of the January audition.) I often get asked if I am eleven to thirteen years old, and since Small Alison is ambiguous in age and the casting breakdown said nine to eleven, we (meaning my dad and me, the person who would accompany me) decided I could look eleven and go for it. It was quite a feat for me because I’d been told in the past by my dad that he didn’t think I was quite “ready” for professional auditions because I started performing at nearly fifteen years of age. For some reason I just wasn’t as excited about this big opportunity as I felt I should be. I had never been to a big audition like this because I am currently working in the Atlanta market, so this was quite anxiety-provoking for me. A good anxiety, yes, but anxiety nonetheless. I had less than a week to prepare an audition song and know exactly how to navigate an audition like this. Running from acting coaching to vocal coaching, we were told the exact same thing. “Get there EARLY. Be ready to sit on the street. I would get there at about 7am if it’s a 9am sign in.” So, naturally, I took the advice gratefully.Before
The night before the audition, we flew into NYC. The flight was just long enough for me to look over my audition material and center myself so I could get to bed as soon as we hit our hotel. I had decided to wake up at 4:15 in the morning and did so with ease. (Hamilton, Kinky Boots, Newsies, Legally Blonde and Wicked make a great waking up/energizing playlist for those of us who aren’t normally morning people.) Once the water had boiled for my tea and I was ready to go, we headed out. I observed how incredibly peaceful New York City is at 6:30 in the morning. We headed to Ripley-Grier Studios and were the first ones there. My dad and I were shocked and went to make sure we were in the right place because we were alone. We expected to see lines of kids going out the door, and not just us! The security guard laughed and said he’d never seen a little kid here so early and so energetic and happy. My dad playfully groaned, knowing he could’ve gotten more sleep. He let us sit down in the lobby until we were allowed to go to the fourth floor.During
At eight, once we were allowed upstairs, the competition started to arrive. There were about four kids and five adults, and naturally, we all started to talk. No one thought I was over twelve, and I started to laugh quietly saying that I was sixteen. No one believed it. I was so worried that these moms would be the quintessential theatre moms that we all dread, but they were actually quite kind. We all had a lot in common, except for the fact that I was in Atlanta and hadn’t auditioned like this before. We all signed an unofficial sign-up list, and that was trashed come 9am. The monitor (who is a person who monitors the audition and helps the casting director wrangle the people auditioning) wouldn’t accept it, and I started to worry. “How many Equity kids would be here? Will I even be able to audition?” I took a deep breath, and the monitor asked all the Equity kids to sign in. To my surprise, there were only three of them. Then, she asked EMC members to sign in. EMC members are Equity Member Candidates, or people who aren’t part of Equity yet but are working towards enough weeks to become Equity. Another small, calm line of kids and moms went up. The monitor then took out another pen, slammed it on the table, pushing it as far away from her as possible and said “non-Equity kids” before throwing up her hands, like she was defeated. I have a feeling she knew the pandemonium that was about to ensue. It was absolute madness. All of the other kids were pushing to get a spot in line. I ended up getting the second non-Equity spot, so I was pretty satisfied. Then, we sat and waited. A lot of people had told me me to be tunnel visioned at auditions, but I personally don’t like to do that; I like to listen and know what’s going on so hopefully I’m not surprised. I think one little girl probably knew that a few of us would do that, because she left the room, ran back into the room like a tornado and started yelling: “Sixteen bars, mommy! They cut us to sixteen bars!” We had been told we could sing an entire song, so I saw a lot of kids panic, looking over their sheet music more intently. I had personally experienced a cut like this a few weeks back when I auditioned at one of the big Disney cattle calls. They cut us from sixteen bars to eight, so I went ahead and cut extra songs for this audition. [caption id="attachment_5809" align="alignleft" width="240"] Nikki Kim[/caption]
At about eleven, they called the first non-equity group. Unfortunately, the way we signed up, sixteen-year-old, five-foot tall me was in a group with mainly four-foot-nothing eight-year-olds. For once, I could say I was tall! As we waited, I asked the monitor if we had been cut to sixteen bars, and she shook her head with a funny look and giggled a bit. She told me no, and I was relieved. I wanted to sing my first choice, naturally. I pulled my original song, then went in with a slightly faked confidence. I sang “I Know It’s Today” from Shrek the Musical, and really put my focus on telling the story, and I felt it went really, really well. The casting director, Ms. Jillian Cimini, was staring at my resume from the moment I started to sing, writing things down. At the end of my song, I said thank you, picked up my books and turned to leave, and right before I took a step, she stopped me, asked where I was from and what grade I was in. She thought I was a freshman at the oldest and seemed surprised when I said I was actually a Junior. She nodded, thanked me and I left. As I left, I surveyed the room one last time. A lot of kids had shown up while I was in the room, and there was now a line out the door. To my surprise, it was 11:30. I was told to expect to be there until late that night, but we were done. That was it, and it was a lot simpler and less dramatic than I had imagined. So, my dad and I packed up and decided to roam the city that never sleeps.
Round 2
Fast forward to a normal morning in June. Just like any other teenager, I woke up and the first thing I did was look at my phone. When I opened my Facebook, the first thing that popped up on my newsfeed is Kids on Tour posting an update about Fun Home having an open call for Small Alison and John. I shot up and almost started crying (as dramatic as that is) and immediately downloaded the audition material. That day, at lunch, I broke the news to my dad who unhesitatingly asked when the audition was. We decided about two days later to go. (Ironically, my dad asked my mom if we could go right as the My Ring of Keys promo video that I was asked to be in came out, and my mom said that we had to go audition then.) So, in two weeks, we’d be heading back to NYC to audition once again for Small Alison. Before we left home, we decided that the first audition was too good to be true. We had been told to expect a huge wait and everyone to be unfriendly, but the exact opposite was true! We decided to adjust the game plan for the big day and get there earlier to accommodate more kids because it was an open call, not an Equity call. The big day came, we got to Pearl Studios at 6:30. Again, my dad and I were the first ones there, and I received another groan. The building was locked so we stood outside. As time went on, another girl and her mother joined me. The girl was only an inch shorter than me. She and her mother were quite nice, and we talked the entire time. Around 8:00am they let us in the building to sit in front of the elevator. The sign in was at 10 again, and there were only four of us at 8 in the morning. This surprised everyone there and my dad had a thought. He pulled out his notebook and made a sign in list, passing it down and having everyone sign in. As the list was being passed down, I noticed there were girls of all shapes and sizes. Some “Matilda” sized, (4’0”-4’5”) some medium sized, and then some “tall” girls (around 4’10’-5’0”). I learned quickly that we were all just kids, and could all have a lot of fun together. Around 9:00, they let us upstairs and we all spread out through the studio. The talking stopped a little but quickly picked back up, unlike before where the talking never ceased. I sat next to some of the Matilda sized girls, and they were quick to bring out their Broadway show cards, and we all laughed, talked, and traded. They didn’t seem to be fazed by the fact that I was older, or maybe they just thought I was their age and tall. I’ll never know. Around 10:15am, there were about 20-30 kids there, which was surprising because there were lines out the door in January. Ms. Cimini was back again. She announced that she would take the sign-up list and that she was going to start auditions now instead of at 11am. She let the monitor line us up, and I was first. Now, being first is not all it’s cracked up to be in my opinion. I was sort of “thrown into” the action, which stressed me out a little. I sang the audition cut of Ring of Keys first, and I felt that went well, and I went to read my side (which I thought I had memorized) and completely blanked, probably because I’m used to having my second to center myself. Moral of the story: if a casting director says you can use your side, always hold it in your hand, no matter how well you think you have it memorized. Afterwards, I was asked questions about why I came back, where I was from, and how I was schooled. The two casting directors smiled, said thank you, and waved at me as I was leaving. Although I didn’t do quite as well as I had hoped on my side, I still felt good about my audition. Either way, it was done, and there was no reason to dwell on it any longer. I skipped out of Pearl Studios at 11:15am incredibly surprised. I honestly thought that the previous audition experience had been a one-off, but it seems to be that you can get out of an audition in a more than timely matter if you show up extra early.Conclusion
Going into a New York audition was definitely intimidating at first, but I quickly realized that it was like almost any audition I had been to in Atlanta. I don’t think kids or parents, for that matter, should be scared of the child audition. Both auditions were some of the most organized and simple auditions I’ve ever been to. Personally, I know there were things I wish I would’ve known or things I could’ve done better, but I wouldn’t have traded this experience for the world.Post by TN community member Nikki Kim
Questions for Nikki about child auditions? Leave a comment below...
[post_title] => What Professional Auditions Are Like For A Child Actor [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => what-professional-auditions-are-like-for-a-child-actor [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2016-12-23 13:13:00 [post_modified_gmt] => 2016-12-23 17:13:00 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => http://theatrenerds.com/?p=3697 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 1 [filter] => raw ) [3] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 5276 [post_author] => 12 [post_date] => 2016-12-22 12:10:23 [post_date_gmt] => 2016-12-22 16:10:23 [post_content] =>1. Samuel French (LA, UK)
This heaven on earth is chock full of scripts, books, music, plays, audition tracker calendars, and more. An epic pit-stop for any theatre lover. https://www.samuelfrench.com/bookstore2. The Nuart Theatre Presents The Rocky Horror Picture Show (LA)
The Nuart Theatre in Los Angeles has been serving up debauchery and disorder every Saturday at midnight since 1988, all thanks to Sins O’ The Flesh, the Rocky Horror Picture Show shadowcast and their love of fishnets and theatre. https://sins.la/ https://www.landmarktheatres.com/los-angeles/nuart-theatre/film-info/the-rocky-horror-picture-show3. Halloween Town (LA)
This Halloween and horror shop is open all year for any thespian’s costume, make-up, wig, mask, and other theatre needs (wants).
https://www.halloweentownstore.com/
4. Ford’s Theatre (Washington D.C.)
What theatre lover wouldn’t want to visit one of the oldest and most epic theatres to grace our history books? A working theatre, museum, and monument- Ford’s Theatre is a utopia of theatrical pleasure. https://www.fords.org/home/performances-events5. Humana Festival (Louisville, Kentucky)
The Humana Festival is an internationally renowned festival that celebrates and showcases contemporary American theatre and its playwrights. This is where you go to rub elbows with top theatre elite and to witness some of the most groundbreaking theatre of today.
https://actorstheatre.org/humana-festival-of-new-american-plays/
6. Broadway (NYC)
Because what passionate theatre lover isn’t swept off their feet by the Great White Way? Just standing still and taking in all the sights, sounds, smells, and general hubbub is enough to make any theatre nerd shed a tear.
7. Drama Books (NY)
Another book haven for thespians of all kinds. Nestled in the heart of the theatre district in New York makes this a paradise for any NYC bound theatre lover. https://www.dramabookshop.com/8. Renaissance Festivals (Minnesota, Ohio, Texas… to name a few)
Ren Faires bring out the thespian in everyone with their brightly colored costumes, dancers, musicians, jousting, sword swallowing, jesting, storytelling, crafts, art, jugglers and more. And then, of course, there’s the food.
https://www.renaissancefest.com/
https://www.renfestival.com/
https://www.texrenfest.com/
9. Shakespeare in the Park (NYC)
Held annually in the park at Delacorte Theatre. Free for all who are willing to wait in line for tickets. A time-honored New York theatre tradition.
https://www.centralpark.com/guide/activities/shakespeare-in-the-park.html
10. Shotspeare (Las Vegas)
A place where Shakespeare and Liquor unite. Reminiscent of real Shakespearian days where the audience members drank and interacted with the happenings on stage. During Shotspeare, five actors perform with swords whilst the audience declares when to make them drink. Fun for any theatre nerd over 21. https://www.shotspeare.com/11. Edinburgh Festival Fringe
The world's largest arts festival is held with a castle (literally) as a backdrop. Every august people from all over the world pack Scotland's capital city to see the cutting edge performances. The atmosphere is filled with life as performers try out material, develop their works, and seek attention from potential producers. This is about as close to Thespian Disneyland as it gets. https://www.edfringe.com/12. Sidetrack (Chicago)
This Boystown bar is known for their frozen cocktails and their showtune Sundays and Musical Mondays. The perfect place for any showboating musical theatre diva.
https://www.sidetrackchicago.com/
13. Oregon Shakespeare Festival
Nested in the tiny town of Ashland, OR is one of the longest running shakespeare institutions in the U.S. Since 1935, the festival has been performing high-quality Shakespeare works. Producing eleven plays per season, this is certainly an oasis for those who love the Bard (not to mention the town is surrounded by natural hot springs). don't forget to see a show in the outdoor elizabethan theatre.
https://www.osfashland.org/
Have a thespian oasis to add to the list? Let's keep em' coming, leave a reply below...
[post_title] => Theatre Nerds Bucket List: 13 Thespian Paradises You Must Visit [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => theatre-nerds-bucket-list-13-thespian-paradises-you-must-visit [to_ping] => [pinged] => https://actorstheatre.org/humana-festival-of-new-american-plays/ [post_modified] => 2019-12-14 10:13:38 [post_modified_gmt] => 2019-12-14 15:13:38 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => http://theatrenerds.com/?p=5276 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 8 [filter] => raw ) [4] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 5717 [post_author] => 11 [post_date] => 2016-12-20 11:57:09 [post_date_gmt] => 2016-12-20 15:57:09 [post_content] => Bringing Disney magic to the stage was a game-changer for musical theatre. With live adaptations raking in audiences from around the world, Disney on Broadway certainly isn’t going anywhere anytime soon. Beloved films such as “Frozen,” “Pinocchio,” “The Jungle Book” and “Alice in Wonderland” are slated to get their own stage lift in the coming years.In the meantime, we’ve ranked Disney’s Broadway shows from worst (a relative term, since they’re all amazing) to best:
7. ‘Tarzan’
Fans of the memorable Phil Collins music gracing the 1999 movie will enjoy the nine new songs Collins created for the Broadway show. Though the musical version of “Tarzan” was fairly short-lived, it does stay true to the heart of the story. Unfortunately, many critics weren’t sure what to make of the show’s pop-inspired tunes, putting it at the top of our list.
6. ‘The Little Mermaid’
How do you pluck a cast of characters from under the sea and place them on a Broadway stage? With roller skates, of course! Okay, so “The Little Mermaid” doesn’t actually use skates, but the performers do wear Heely-inspired kicks.
With a slew of new songs accompanying the traditional Alan Menken tunes and some Tony nominations in its back pocket, this musical seemed to be either loved or loathed by audiences and critics. Disney’s 2007 production still did quite well and brought a splash of magic to those who fell in love with the classic movie.
5. ‘Aladdin’
The debut of “Aladdin” brought this story to life through a whole new world: musical theatre. The show’s hilariously charming Genie, gruesome villain, timeless romance and a rags-to-riches story translate well to the stage. As a relatively new addition to the Disney on Broadway family, “Aladdin” debuted in New York City in 2014 and received mixed reviews.
Though this show might not touch the iconic film version, it’s still a great experience for families who want to escape into Agrabah.
4. ‘Mary Poppins’
Though the Broadway musical, written by “Downton Abbey” creator Julian Fellowes, takes most of its inspiration from the original novel, it certainly serves up a spoonful of sugar reminiscent of the Julie Andrews movie.
Nothing can compare to seeing Mary soar through the theatre with her umbrella or watching Bert and his fellow chimney sweeps stepping in time as they tap dance up the walls. It’s apparent that that a live adaptation of Disney’s magical nanny is “practically perfect in every way.”
3. ‘Beauty and the Beast’
This tale as old as time was brought to life in 1993 when creatives bravely morphed the adored movie into Broadway material. It’s hard to beat lavish dance numbers performed by dancing silverware or a mystified castle in the middle of the woods. The story’s charm, along with its notable music, quickly made this one a fan-favorite.
After sweeping the Great White Way and making its way around the world, “Beauty and the Beast” has proven to be one of Broadway’s best.
2. ‘Newsies’
The 1992 movie may not be Disney’s most well-known or popular, but the stage version has cultivated quite the following. The story chronicles the Newsboys’ strike of 1899 and includes some of the best choreography in all of Broadway history.
We’re guessing the show’s enormous popularity comes from having all the makings of good theatre: a protagonist we want to root for, spectacular music, a pinch of romance and dance numbers that take inspiration from tap, ballet, jazz and modern. “Newsies” continues to successfully seize the day!
1. ‘The Lion King’
Prior to the mid-’90s, the world hardly expected Disney’s animated feature about a royal lion to translate so well to the stage. During its reign for the past few decades, “The Lion King” has become a theatrical sensation, surpassing “The Phantom of the Opera” in box office earnings.
Looking back, it’s unsurprising that the music of Elton John and Tim Rice, paired with a plot with Shakespearean roots, could be anything other than made for Broadway. Astounding choreography, unique puppetry, elaborate costumes and a heartwarming story make certain that “The Lion King” will stand the test of time. For that, this beloved musical ranks at the top of our list.
Do you have a favorite Disney production gracing the Broadway stage? Share in the comments below...
[post_title] => A Ranking Of Disney's Broadway Shows From Worst To Best [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => ranking-of-disneys-broadway-shows-from-worst-to-best [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2016-12-20 20:04:16 [post_modified_gmt] => 2016-12-21 00:04:16 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => http://theatrenerds.com/?p=5717 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 7 [filter] => raw ) [5] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 5725 [post_author] => 714 [post_date] => 2016-12-18 15:48:55 [post_date_gmt] => 2016-12-18 19:48:55 [post_content] => It’s a sad fact of theatre that no show can last forever (although we’re betting “Hamilton” might prove us wrong). Sometimes, wonderful shows leave us far too soon. However, no matter how awesome the cast or how beautiful the score, there’s nothing for some shows to do but join a legendary list of Broadway’s worst-selling shows. Even though some shows are panned by critics, some flops will always have a special place in our hearts:‘Bonnie and Clyde’
Total Broadway Performances: 36
Even though “Bonnie and Clyde” was only on Broadway for three months, the show has developed a large cult following. The score is gorgeous, and Jeremy Jordan and Laura Osnes had wonderful chemistry (not to mention vocal chops). Luckily, there is a cast recording, so we can properly mourn this show’s early closing.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NYtknprFvxE
‘[Title of Show]’
Total Broadway Performances: 102
This four-person musical is only one act, but it features some wonderful, witty songs about show business, from “Secondary Characters” to “I Am Playing Me.” The show follows Heidi, Susan, Jeff and Hunter through the rehearsal process of creating a show. After 103 performances, it probably flopped because it’s unrelatable for audience members who aren’t part of the theatre community, and it’s less flashy and commercial than most Broadway musicals.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ha3A84MdF1U
‘Carrie: The Musical’
Total Broadway Performances: 5
This show, based on the famous Stephen King novel, is about a high school girl with telekinetic powers who deals with her religious mother and the high school prom. This show flopped, but it became the inspiration for a book by Ken Mandelbaum called, “Not Since Carrie: Forty Years of Broadway Flops.” During previews, there was a mixture of standing ovations, thunderous applause and a chorus of boos. Ticket sales didn’t suffer, but the critics ripped the show apart, causing financial backers to pull their money out of the production.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_gfo3aC8A4Q
‘Anyone Can Whistle’
Total Broadway Performances: 9
It’s kind of nice to know that even Stephen Sondheim isn’t perfect. This musical is about a town that creates a fake miracle in order to bring in tourism. Meanwhile, inmates from the local insane asylum have escaped. The show, originally starring Angela Lansbury, only had nine performances.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ncyo8EUUCVE
‘Side Show’
Total Broadway Performances: 91
Well, it seems as though this show “will never leave you.” This musical received a revival in 2014, but it had the same lack of success as the original Broadway production. This is a beautifully tragic story about twins in a freak show. Unfortunately, the amazing female power ballad duets weren’t enough to keep the show open after 91 performances (the revival only had 56).
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B-7loLNvDLA
‘Chess’
Total Broadway Performances: 68
This show, created by ABBA’s Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus, is about American and Russian chess champions who face off against each other during the Cold War. The show’s premise probably led to its early closing, with only 68 performances. However, its concept album was very successful and led to the popularity of “Anthem,” “One Night in Bangkok” and “Someone Else’s Story.”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0J1zN7PwPL8
‘You’re A Good Man, Charlie Brown’
Total Broadway Performances: 32
This show about the “Peanuts” gang actually premiered in 1971, but you probably didn’t hear about it because there were only 32 performances. It wasn’t until the revival in 1999 with Kristin Chenoweth, Roger Bart and Anthony Rapp that this show was put on the map. It is now a crowd favorite and is very popular for school theatre productions.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JcVa_qe1itE
Sometimes shows just can’t figure out how to sell out at the box office. However, we can still enjoy them through cast albums, YouTube videos and — if we’re lucky — eventual revivals!
Did we forget your favorite flop? Let us know in the comments below...
[post_title] => 7 Broadway Flops That We Still Love Anyway [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => broadway-flops-that-we-still-love-anyway [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2016-12-18 17:12:18 [post_modified_gmt] => 2016-12-18 21:12:18 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => http://theatrenerds.com/?p=5725 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 36 [filter] => raw ) [6] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 5618 [post_author] => 11 [post_date] => 2016-12-17 11:35:20 [post_date_gmt] => 2016-12-17 15:35:20 [post_content] => [viralQuiz id=23] [post_title] => Quiz: Which Andrew Lloyd Webber Musical Are You? [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => which-andrew-lloyd-webber-musical-are-you [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2016-12-17 11:35:45 [post_modified_gmt] => 2016-12-17 15:35:45 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => http://theatrenerds.com/?p=5618 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 4 [filter] => raw ) [7] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 5684 [post_author] => 12 [post_date] => 2016-12-15 14:02:49 [post_date_gmt] => 2016-12-15 18:02:49 [post_content] => Networking. There, I said it. It’s a word that is dreaded by many artistic types, who would rather lose themselves in their art than succumb to the seemingly artificial task of making contacts to further their career. Or, perhaps the word “networking” is a misunderstood phrase that really equates to making friends. Everyone has heard the tired cliché that it’s not what you know, it’s who you know. The people you know and are friends with are the people you surround yourself with, give jobs to, ask to participate in your next project and so on. Occasionally, you’re blissfully unaware that you’re networking — such as when you’re waiting during intermission in the lobby of a theatre and strike up a delightful conversation with a director about how amazing the Whole Foods brownies are. Other times, it’s painfully obvious that you’re supposed to be networking. You’re expected to strike up conversations at the Theatre Networking Mixer, but instead, you spend the whole time hiding in the corner texting your mom. The point is, networking is part of the package of being an actor/writer/director/set designer, etc. Here are some ways to help you network (make new friends) and get the most out of it:1. Go to Networking Events
When you go to a networking event, everyone is there for the same reason, so don’t feel awkward about putting yourself out there. These types of events can range from a Women in the Arts guild you pay a membership fee to attend to a Meetup.com group for playwrights in your neighborhood.2. Create Your Own Event
Feeling shy? Create your own group! If you’ve met several fantastic individuals you think would jive really well with one another, celebrate with a gathering at your place. They’ll be able to meet like-minded people and then pool their resources. Plus, they’ll be so thankful to you for hosting that they’ll never forget you.3. Get There on Time
Networking events aren’t the time to be fashionably late. Getting there early lets you get your bearings while it’s calm and quiet. Plus, it’s much easier to strike up conversations with people before they’ve already sequestered themselves off into private groups.4. Break the Ice
To get the conversation going, simply walk up to a group and say, “Mind if I join you?” or “What brings you to this event?”5. Toss Them the Ball
People love to talk about themselves, so toss the person you’re speaking with the ball (so to speak) and get them going on about themselves. This is great for two reasons. First, the pressure is off you to be interesting — boom! — and second, the person you’re speaking with will love the attention and being listened to.6. Actually Listen
Make the person you’re speaking with feel special by really listening to them, looking them in the eye, smiling and saying their name when you address them.7. Complement Their Card/Website/Headshot
If someone gives you his or her business card, take a second and actually look at it. Comment, “This is a great card! I love the box shape, so original.” Or say, “Great headshot! I love that photographer.” People pay money for these, so it’s a real bummer when they’re tucked away without so much as a glance. Taking the extra second to give props can go a long way.8. Take Notes
After a conversation has ended, take a second to jot down a few notes on the back of their card to remind you of what topics you covered. This will help when you follow up with them later. A “Nice meeting you last week! How’s your pug, Charlie, doing?” will go a lot further than a generic greeting.9. Be Positive
Nobody wants to network with the whiny person who repeatedly says, “Life never works out for me! This business is so hard, I haven’t had any auditions in a month.” Stay upbeat and save the pity party for another time.10. Be a Friend
Networking works best when people connect over real things. If something about the girl across the room wearing the killer red lipstick and groovy outfit speaks to you, go over and talk to her. You can bond over Sephora sales and concentrate on your human connection at the event. Then, you can hit her up later to star in the play you wrote.11. Don’t Hog One Person’s Attention
You finally found someone to talk to — yes! You’re a wallflower no more! It may seem tempting to sink your claws into them and never let them go so you don’t have to start over again with someone else, but you need to kindly let them leave once the conversation starts to wane. After all, they’re there to meet other people too.12. Plus One or Not to Plus One?
Don’t bring your friend or significant other if you know you’re just going to cling to each other all night and never meet anyone new. Go alone and force yourself to socialize. Unless, of course, if you have that one amazing friend who connects with everyone and can get anyone involved in a conversation, bring that friend!13. Know What’s Happening in the World
Prepare yourself for a social event by knowing what’s happening in the world. Check out what’s trending on Twitter or what all the buzz is on Facebook. This is a great way to start conversations while appearing to be interesting and in the know. Word to the wise, stay away from heavy or dicey topics. Keep it light and fun and stick to pop culture or interesting news stories to keep things moving. Bringing up fun topics increases your chances of being memorable. Nobody remembers the guy who talked about how bad traffic was or how cold it is outside.14. Smile
Smiling is the simplest thing you can do. It immediately helps you relax and simultaneously makes you more approachable.15. Follow Up
There’s no point in going to networking events if you never see or speak to these people again, so be sure to follow up in some fashion. If you met someone you clicked with, add them on Facebook or follow them on Twitter. Better yet, reach out through email to say you enjoyed meeting them and hope everything’s working out with their latest project they were telling you about. If it feels appropriate, offer to help out in any way you can. Hopefully you’re feeling a little less intimidated by the world “networking” and are ready to get out there and make new friends. I’ll leave you with a few icebreakers to try out the next time you’re in the trenches: Icebreakers:- What are you reading now?
- Have you seen any fun plays lately?
- Have you traveled anywhere interesting recently?
- Have you been to this group/meetup before?
- Where did you fly/drive in from?
- Did you have to travel far to get here?
- This year’s event seems busier than last year’s, don’t you think?
- Do you have any pets?
What Is a Dresser?
Well, a dresser is a member of the wardrobe department whose job it is to assist their assigned actors into costume and help with any changes, especially quick changes. More often, a dresser will be assigned two or more people to dress. Star dressers or principal dressers are the ones who are assigned to or requested by one actor, often the lead of the show. We also occasionally help with repairs, and there is a thing called “day work” where all the clothes get repaired and cleaned, steamed and ready for the show. Every show has its own unique duties, too. In my current show, “Something Rotten!” we have to put tape over all the taps of the tap shoes so that the actors aren’t slipping on the stage when wearing them.How Did You Get Into Dressing?
My way in was not the usual way. My mom was a dresser for many years. She worked on “Rent,” “Nine,” “Jersey Boys, “On the Twentieth Century” and many more. So I’ve always known that world. I also worked in the costume shop in college and worked in costumes for TADA! Youth Theater, an amazing children’s theatre program in the city. Years later, my mother was working on “Spider-Man” and they suddenly needed another dresser, and very quickly I was suggested and brought in the next day. And I can’t imagine doing anything else. It’s seriously one of the best jobs.What’s the Most Difficult Part of Dressing?
Hmm, I mean, quick changes can be difficult, but once you do it for a little while, it becomes like clockwork. One of the most difficult positions, though, is a swing dresser. As you know, Broadway shows have swing actors — actors who know every role in the show and can replace anyone at a moment’s notice. Well, dressers have the same position. Every dresser has a “track,” which is where they go and when, whom they dress, where and when they have to move to get out of the way of a set change, etc. And a swing dresser has to know everyone’s tracks and to be able to fill in as needed. I enjoyed being a swing dresser, as it kept me on my toes and allows you to see how the whole machine of a show really works from many different perspectives.What Is the Fastest Change You’ve Had to Do?
I have done many changes that are quite fast or crazy (giant egg costumes, anyone?) One of my most involved quick-change was during “Spider-Man.” I had less than 30 seconds to get an actor out of about seven pieces of clothing, including a full head mask, and into six different pieces! But I’ve seen or heard about some pretty crazy quick-changes. In fact, my friend Fran Curry, one of the best dressers in the biz, had a great video taken of her doing one of Kelli O’Hara’s complicated quick-changes during “The King and I.”What Are the Items You Always Have to Have on You?
[caption id="attachment_5689" align="alignleft" width="225"] Broadway dresser Lacie Bonanni[/caption]
I always make sure I’m wearing an apron with multiple pockets. I make sure I have an array of safety pins and a little pair of scissors. And, you always want to have a light. I use a headlamp that looks like I’m going mining for coal. Some people use what’s called a “bite light,” a little light you put in your mouth and bite down on to give you some light backstage. Also water, Tylenol and some kind of chocolate for those two-show days.
Have You Ever Been a Dresser for a Celebrity?
I have, actually. I was very fortunate to be Sienna Miller’s dresser during her stint in “Cabaret.” She was the nicest, most wonderful person! I loved her. People also ask me what the major difference is being a star dresser versus an ensemble dresser. I think the major difference is you become somewhat like an assistant, at least when they’re in the theatre. Making sure they have tea, helping with fan mail, organizing backstage visits, etc. It was a great experience.What’s the Biggest Mishap That’s Happened to You During a Show?
Nothing too severe, thankfully. During “Something Rotten!” one of the ensemble girls’ opening costume split down the back, and we had to do a very fast repair so she could wear it again later in the show. There’s also a point in the show where a bunch of men’s coats are placed along the back wall and every ensemble guy runs upstage and grabs their coat. Well, sometimes if there is an understudy or swing on, the coats don’t always get put in the right places, and we’ve had some actors grab a jacket that’s either way too big or way too small, but it’s too late and they’ve got to go on with the number.How Do I Get Into the Dressing Business?
There’s no one way to get into wardrobe work. If you are still in school, volunteer in your school’s costume shop or at a local theatre. Touring shows also often hire local dressers for each stop, so you should inquire at your closest theatre that hosts national tours. If you’re in the city and hoping to be a dresser, try getting as many credits as you can, wherever you can. Try Off-Broadway, children’s theatres, etc., and meeting as many people in the business as you can. Connections are always helpful for any job, really. Apply to be a day worker, too. Besides the ironing and steaming and such, there are stitchers who repair all the costumes during the day, shoppers who buy fabric and material for repairs or new costumes and a laundry person who takes care of all the laundry for the show, which, believe me, is no easy task. And then, just start dropping your resumes off at all the theatres in the city. [post_title] => What It's Like To Be A Broadway Dresser [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => what-its-like-to-be-a-broadway-dresser [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2016-12-13 17:24:38 [post_modified_gmt] => 2016-12-13 21:24:38 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => http://theatrenerds.com/?p=5686 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 7 [filter] => raw ) [9] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 5696 [post_author] => 440 [post_date] => 2016-12-12 12:12:51 [post_date_gmt] => 2016-12-12 16:12:51 [post_content] => ‘Twas the weeks before Christmas, and all around the world, Theatre Nerds everywhere sang, dance and twirled. Their stockings were hung by the chimney with care, hoping Santa would deliver their Tony Award there. And while we can’t promise Santa will bring a Tony this year, we have a few festive musicals that promise holiday cheer. Here are six musicals sure to get you in the holiday mood:1. ‘White Christmas’
This musical is everything that was so magical about Old Hollywood. The catchy songs, classic dance numbers, gorgeous costumes and old-school romance will melt your heart this holiday season. The live stage version usually makes the rounds in a national tour and also plays at regional theatres around the world during the holidays. Not able to catch it live? The film version is just as charming, with all-star performances from Hollywood legends Bing Crosby, Danny Kaye, Rosemary Clooney and Vera-Ellen.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QvX3krCL-Lo
2. ‘Holiday Inn’
Another classic charmer, “Holiday Inn” is sure to have you dancing. Interestingly, the film version of the show first featured the song “White Christmas,” sung by Bing Crosby, and was so popular that it spurred the creation of the musical film by the same name a decade later. “High School Musical’s” Corbin Bleu has put his dancing shoes back on to star in “Holiday Inn” on Broadway. While the musical differs from the film versions, both are a delightful dose of nostalgia for the holiday season.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n32JKaZoToY
3. ‘Elf’
Theatre Nerds have known for years that the best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing loud for all to hear. With that notion in mind, “Elf the Musical” was created for the Broadway stage in 2010 and still finds its way onto stages all over the country during the holidays. NBC also created a stop-motion version of the musical back in 2014, featuring the voice of Jim Parsons, aka Sheldon from “The Big Bang Theory.”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o9pMdNYWD9Q
4. ‘A Christmas Story’
Ralphie and the infamous leg lamp come to life in the musical stage adaptation of the beloved Christmas movie. The show has been enjoying a national tour this year, ending in Michigan at the end of December. You can also try to catch the show in one of the many regional productions that take place every year as well.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MQzcy1XeBcI
5. ‘Dr. Seuss' How the Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical’
There’s a reason Dr. Seuss’ delightfully odd cast of characters has endured for all these years. Generations have grown up with the whimsical world of Whoville and the well-known songs that remind us of childhood Christmases. With two popular film versions, the original cartoon and a live-action film, it was only natural that a stage show be created as well. Check your local theatre scene for a live stage version, or curl up and enjoy one of the two film versions!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4LGKYp08T7A
6. ‘Charlie Brown Christmas The Musical’
If you happen to live in the Chicago area, you’re in luck! Catch all of your favorite Peanuts characters at the Broadway Playhouse throughout the holiday season. Charles Schultz’s Christmas classic has stood the test of time for more than 50 years, and it just wouldn’t be the holidays without his jazzy piano tunes. If you don’t own a copy of the original film, you can catch it on Dec. 22 on ABC.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GPG3zSgm_Qo
What is your favorite holiday musical? Let us know in the comments below...
[post_title] => 6 Musicals That Will Put You In The Holiday Spirit [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => 6-musicals-that-will-put-you-in-the-holiday-spirit [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2016-12-12 12:16:21 [post_modified_gmt] => 2016-12-12 16:16:21 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => http://theatrenerds.com/?p=5696 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [10] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 5677 [post_author] => 714 [post_date] => 2016-12-11 14:37:25 [post_date_gmt] => 2016-12-11 18:37:25 [post_content] => You remember the legends, such as Rodgers and Hammerstein, Kander and Ebb, Stephen Sondheim and Cole Porter. However, do you remember the composers who made it big, but only once? These Broadway musicals were honored in concert on Nov. 14 and Nov. 15 at the Kaufman Music Center to celebrate the one-hit wonders of Broadway:9. “Promises, Promises”
Burt Bacharach and Hal David wrote this hit musical comedy about a businessman trying to climb up the corporate ladder by letting his superiors use his apartment for secret rendezvous.
8. “1776”
This Sherman Edwards musical about the Founding Fathers centers around John Adams and his efforts to convince people to sign the Declaration of Independence.
7. “Hair”
Galt MacDermot, James Rado and Gerome Ragni wrote this rock musical about bohemian hippies in New York who resist the Vietnam War, society’s norms and their conservative parents.
6. “The Man of La Mancha”
Inspired by “Don Quixote,” Mitch Leigh and Joe Darion’s musical is a play within a play that prisoners perform while Miguel de Cervantes waits for a hearing with the Spanish Inquisition.
5. “The Boyfriend”
This show by Sandy Wilson was Julie Andrews’ big break on Broadway. Set in the 1920s on the French Riviera, the musical tells the story of the girls who live at Madame Dubonnet’s School for Young Ladies.
4. “Grease”
Jim Jacob and Warren Casey’s musical, “Grease,” has been a classic since its 1971 debut. It has had countless revivals, and hundreds of high school productions are staged around the country every year.
3. “The Music Man”
Meredith Wilson’s classic story is about con artist band director Harold Hill, who tricks the town of River City into buying instruments for a phony band program. Meanwhile, he develops feelings for the local librarian.
2. “Oliver!”
Lionel Bart wrote the musical adaptation of Charles Dickens’ “Oliver Twist” with well-known songs such as “Consider Yourself,” “I’d Do Anything” and “Who Will Buy?”
1. “The Wiz”
In this modern musical adaptation of “The Wizard of Oz,” composer Charlie Smalls rewrote this timeless story in the context of African-American culture. The 1978 film version starred Diana Ross as Dorothy and Michael Jackson as the Scarecrow.
Even though these composers only produced one hit on the Great White Way, their works of art are truly timeless.
[post_title] => 9 One-Hit Wonders On Broadway
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[post_content] => Try Another Quiz: The Hardest Hamilton Lyric Quiz You’ll Ever Take
[post_title] => Quiz: Which 'Hamilton' Song Best Describes Your Life? [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => which-hamilton-song-best-describes-your-life [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2018-09-29 18:40:40 [post_modified_gmt] => 2018-09-29 22:40:40 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => http://theatrenerds.com/?p=5538 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 71 [filter] => raw ) [12] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 5635 [post_author] => 11 [post_date] => 2016-12-09 19:11:12 [post_date_gmt] => 2016-12-09 23:11:12 [post_content] => Perhaps one of the biggest theatre nerds of all time is “Gilmore Girls” creator Amy Sherman-Palladino. As the daughter of a comedian and dancer, it’s no surprise that this writer bears a love for the arts. This show is chock-full of of witty banter and hidden tributes, many of which center around famous thespians, musicals or plays. Whether you loved or hated “Gilmore Girls: A Year in the Life,” you can appreciate Stars Hollow’s undying love for theatre. These references are coffee for the soul:Theatre References in the Revival
Years later, it seems as though the residents of Stars Hollow have stayed pop-culture savvy. Throughout the original seasons, Lorelai’s frequent references to famous plays and musicals made her one of the biggest theatre nerds in town. In fact, the revival opens with Rory arriving home looking way too glam to have gone through annoying TSA lines. According to her mother, a more realistic look for someone fresh off a flight would be “singing ‘I Dreamed a Dream’ with a bad haircut.”
Lorelai certainly has a few other quips about the Great White Way — she references “Rock of Ages” and admits she’s seen “Kinky Boots” multiple times — but it’s mostly other characters who pay tribute to theatre. Big, bad, bossy Taylor Doose decides a gay pride parade should be the next event on the town’s calendar, and just in time for the anniversary of a Liza Minnelli record. Rory references a character from “Death of a Salesman,” while Logan Huntzberger apparently knows his “Fiddler on the Roof.”
Perhaps the most obvious of references comes in the form of the “Stars Hollow Musical,” an outrageous affair commissioned by none other than “Town Meeting” Taylor. Unlike the not-so-memorable Stars Hollow diorama back in Season 5, the musical is written by real-life Broadway composer Jeanine Tesori, who won a Tony Award for her “Fun Home” music last year. Playing the very odd lead roles are Broadway stars Sutton Foster and Christian Borle, who make this ultra-wacky production a treat for those who know them.
Theatre References in the Original Series
To dive into the endless world of artistic references in “Gilmore Girls” would be to go full-on Rory Gilmore and write a novel. However, diehard fans can easily pinpoint some of the season’s best homages. Here are some of our favorites:
Season 1, Episode 14
Sookie and Lorelai channel their inner theatre nerds when discussing the baby chick Rory brings home. Like any Tennessee Williams fan, Lorelai names the bird “Stella” after “A Streetcar Named Desire,” while Sookie asks which of the famous actresses who play Blanche acted as a muse for this choice. Sookie asks, “Vivian Leigh or Jessica Tandy?” and Lorelai answers, “Hello! Tandy!”Season 1, Episode 18
When Rory inherits a trust fund from her rich great-grandmother, Sookie is quick to tell Lorelai, “We can sing the money song from ‘Cabaret!’ You can be Liza, I’ll be Joel.”Season 2, Episode 1
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LGeHpsFhH10 This tribute had an entire episode named after it! The second season premiere, “Sadie, Sadie!” pays homage to a song from the iconic Barbra Streisand musical “Funny Girl.” After getting engaged to Max Medina, Sookie sings, “Sadie, Sadie, married lady,” and happily proclaims, “STREISAND!”Season 5, Episode 15
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5uhseNPpV-s We’re guessing Kirk was busy during rehearsals of the “Stars Hollow Musical,” as he’s an “accomplished” film and stage performer in the original series. Remember that time he played Tevya in the Stars Hollow Elementary School production of “Fiddler on the Roof?” We can’t forget.Season 2, Episode 11
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=goU8TKht4NA We learn two things about Lorelai Gilmore in this scene. First, she can easily down six cups of coffee (but let’s be real, we already knew that) and second, she and Rory are huge “Rocky Horror Picture Show” fans — so much so that they love dressing up when they go to a viewing. Luke even agrees to play Dr. Frank-N-Furter, but we’re 99 percent sure he didn’t pull through. Yes, yes, we know the witty writing of “Gilmore Girls” offers at least two gazillion more instances theatre nerds can die over.Did we miss your favorite reference? Share it in the comments below...
[post_title] => Best Theatre-Themed Moments In ‘Gilmore Girls’ [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => best-theatre-themed-moments-in-gilmore-girls [to_ping] => [pinged] => https://everygilmoregirlsculturalreference.wordpress.com/2016/07/27/vivian-leigh-or-jessica-tandy/ [post_modified] => 2017-07-06 11:39:39 [post_modified_gmt] => 2017-07-06 15:39:39 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => http://theatrenerds.com/?p=5635 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [13] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 4198 [post_author] => 11 [post_date] => 2016-12-03 10:13:58 [post_date_gmt] => 2016-12-03 14:13:58 [post_content] => [viralQuiz id=15] [post_title] => Quiz: Can You Match The Play To Its Playwright? [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => can-you-match-the-play-to-its-playwright [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2016-12-03 10:13:58 [post_modified_gmt] => 2016-12-03 14:13:58 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => http://theatrenerds.com/?p=4198 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [14] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 5586 [post_author] => 639 [post_date] => 2016-12-02 11:18:30 [post_date_gmt] => 2016-12-02 15:18:30 [post_content] => With Thanksgiving behind us, it’s officially the holiday season. Decorations have started to go up left and right, your office has already sent out an email about the holiday party and the temperature has dropped 30 degrees. Time for presents, relatives, a great deal of food and a whole genre of music we are deprived of the rest of the year. With only one month to jam all the holiday songs in, why not add some great musical tunes to your playlist?Here are 10 songs from musicals to get you in the holiday spirit:
“We Need a Little Christmas” from “Mame”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-UL9rVtRvRI It’s been a long fall season, to say the least, and everyone could use a little (or a lot) of joy in their lives right now. What better way than with some carols, a little flurry and a little laughter? This is definitely an all-time classic holiday tune featured in an all-time classic musical.“Chip on My Shoulder” from “Legally Blonde”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A7oyDs2K7I8 Though not the typical go-to holiday song from a musical, this one is perfect for all those students out there trying to get through finals so they can get home for the holidays. Don’t worry, guys — it will all be worth it. Just get through the next few weeks of studying and work, and you’ll be home with your family eating free home-cooked food and have your own personal washing machine. I mean, unless you’re Elle Woods.“Christmas Bells” from “Rent”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_nVcUkol3Eg This one is pretty self-explanatory. This song has a great classic tune that reminds you of Christmas with all the hecticness that is “Rent.” Though it does focus a bit on the struggles of people who don’t have much around Christmastime, it also focuses on people being generous and giving. Yes, I’m referring to the adorable interaction between Angel and Collins. There’s also the great line that is repeated throughout the song: “And it’s beginning to snow.” How can this song not get you excited for the holiday season?“Twelve Days to Christmas” from “She Loves Me”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x6LwgGL6KuI Does anyone actually like shopping around the holidays? Sometimes the great prices just don’t seem worth the packed stores. This song counts down the days to Christmas, or the days you have left to make your final purchases for those special people in your life. Just remember, don’t wait until the day before to buy your presents.“Four Jews in a Room” from “Falsettos”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1RYRRH2Ei0k This year, Hanukkah actually starts on Christmas Eve and ends on New Year’s Day. If your family is anything like mine, this song can apply to any Jewish holiday or dysfunctional family. Bonus: This show is currently on Broadway and will be there the entire holiday season. In case you need a break from your family, go see this one onstage.“The Chanukah Party” from “Caroline, or Change”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JSxxFBwPkk4 Jumping off the last song, here’s another great tune to commemorate the eight-day festival of lights. As it says in the song, it’s a whole week more than Christmas!“Turkey Lurkey Time” from “Promises, Promises”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9HMRZrVF2eU There will be parties you are looking forward to attending this season, along with the ones you’re forced to go to. This song captures the spirit of all of them. You just know along the way you’ll encounter the overly enthusiastic host who just loves Christmas. Get ready to make awkward talk with your uncle you barely see and eat until you can’t move.“Try to Remember” from “The Fantasticks”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_COP3cyN7zg Those who enjoy more nostalgic holiday tunes will love this one. Comparable to holiday favorites such as “I’ll Be Home for Christmas” and “White Christmas,” this definitely will give you all the holiday feels.“Home” from “The Wiz”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gO5RmujMSA4 At the end of the day, the holidays are really about spending time with the people you love. Though this is also not a typical holiday song, it’s the epitome of the feeling of going home for the holidays and seeing your family. There truly is no place like home.“Happy New Year” from “Rent”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=egvjWSMMd_Y Yes, another “Rent” song, but you can’t forget about New Year’s! This is the time to celebrate the year that was and welcome the new year surrounded by family and friends. With the new year comes a fresh slate and new opportunities, so start getting your list of resolutions together now. As the song says, “It’s gonna be a happy new year.”Which musical ditties put you in the holiday spirit? Let us know in the comments below...
[post_title] => 10 Songs From Musicals To Get You In The Holiday Spirit [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => 10-songs-from-musicals-to-get-you-in-the-holiday-spirit [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2016-12-02 17:07:08 [post_modified_gmt] => 2016-12-02 21:07:08 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => http://theatrenerds.com/?p=5586 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [15] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 5434 [post_author] => 714 [post_date] => 2016-12-01 16:06:33 [post_date_gmt] => 2016-12-01 20:06:33 [post_content] => Everyone is buzzing about the new “Mary Poppins” live-action remake with Emily Blunt. Luckily, casting directors didn’t have to look too far to find a perfect costar when they cast Broadway’s own Lin-Manuel Miranda as Jack! We went to Twitter to show why Theatre Nerds are “Ham” for Lin-Manuel!1.
https://twitter.com/Lin_Manuel/status/5682434532069130242.
https://twitter.com/lin_manuel/status/7325648481696358413.
https://twitter.com/lin_manuel/status/7294994398915502084.
https://twitter.com/lin_manuel/status/7285782566943334415.
https://twitter.com/lin_manuel/status/7253368304434380806.
https://twitter.com/lin_manuel/status/6300193803955527687.
https://twitter.com/lin_manuel/status/7411100006727475208.
https://twitter.com/lin_manuel/status/7727746404270735379.
https://twitter.com/lin_manuel/status/62914592866711142410.
https://twitter.com/lin_manuel/status/75344185610567270411.
https://twitter.com/lin_manuel/status/72602556469650227212.
https://twitter.com/lin_manuel/status/718895422018887680AND FINALLY...
13.
https://twitter.com/lin_manuel/status/737735437012373504 Though tickets to “Hamilton” might be out of reach, Lin never fails to keep us inspired, 140 characters at a time! Thank you, from Theatre Nerds everywhere!What is your favorite Lin-Manuel Miranda tweet? Let us know in the comments below...
[post_title] => 13 Tweets Proving Lin-Manuel Miranda Is Practically Perfect In Every Way [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => tweets-proving-lin-manuel-miranda-is-perfect [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2017-07-11 18:14:46 [post_modified_gmt] => 2017-07-11 22:14:46 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => http://theatrenerds.com/?p=5434 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [16] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 5568 [post_author] => 391 [post_date] => 2016-11-29 12:25:32 [post_date_gmt] => 2016-11-29 16:25:32 [post_content] => The best duets in musical theatre help the audience fall more in love with a show by getting to know the characters better. While favorites such as “People Will Say We’re in Love” and, more recently, “For Good,” are frequently heard everywhere, other duets are left neglected for years. If you and a partner are looking to refresh audiences’ tastes, here are 10 overlooked male/female duets you can choose from:1. “Beneath a Moonless Sky” from “Love Never Dies”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tAUUeWIZLEE This duet from the sequel to Andrew Lloyd Webber’s “The Phantom of the Opera” is a response to the Phantom and Christine’s duet, “The Point of No Return.” In this scene, the two characters reunite after 10 years and recall a night of passion. Male Range: D3–G4. Female Range: D4–G5.2. “If I Said I Love You” from “The Pirate Queen”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UqBmwSru60A This duet by “Les Misérables” writers Boublil and Schönberg sees the characters Grace and Tiernan reunite after Grace has divorced her husband, Donal. Like “Beneath a Moonless Sky,” this duet is a tribute to the pop-opera genre that dominated the 1980s. Male Range: B2–G4. Female Range: B3–E5.3. “Say It Somehow” from “The Light in the Piazza”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HJperJPdwmA In this song, Fabrizio and Clara admit their feelings for each other and Clara accepts his marriage proposal. Although written in the contemporary era of musical theatre, this duet has more of a classical sound. Male Range: C3–A4. Female Range: C4–A5.4. “This World Will Remember Us” from “Bonnie and Clyde: The Musical”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xpX3NoKxqr0 This Frank Wildhorn musical opened on Broadway in 2011 and closed after just 36 performances. In this scene, Clyde breaks out of prison, murders a deputy and starts a life of crime with Bonnie. Although Wildhorn is known mostly for his pop-opera style, this duet is an up-tempo jazz number a la Kander and Ebb. Male Range: B2–A4. Female Range: Bb3–C#5.5. “Falling Into You” from “The Bridges of Madison County”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-5m2E3gche0 This Jason Robert Brown adaptation of the 1992 novel opened on Broadway in 2014 to mixed reviews. The music primarily mixes pop and folk music with opera. This duet closes the first act, just as Robert and Francesca realize their feelings for each other. Male Range: A2–A4 (falsetto). Female Range: G#3–F#5.6. “Daffodils” from “Big Fish”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0P4Lt_EJ__Y Based on the 1998 novel and 2003 Tim Burton film, Andrew Lippa’s musical “Big Fish” opened on Broadway in 2013 and ran for 98 performances. In this scene, Edward travels 700 miles to visit Sandra and proposes to her after her convinces her to leave her fiancé, Don. Male Range: D3–G4. Female Range: G4–Eb5.7. “Here I Go” from “If/Then”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=07_CkayJ5hU This Brian Yorkey/Tom Kitt musical opened on Broadway in 2014 and ran for 401 performances. This number takes place after the characters Liz and Josh decide to take a chance on starting a relationship. The style here is similar to contemporary Disney musical films such as “Tangled” and “Frozen.” Male Range: E3–G#4. Female Range: E3–C#5.8. “But I Don’t Wanna Talk About Her” from “I Love You Because”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hYBYZbu2v58 This musical, based on Jane Austen’s “Pride and Prejudice,” ran off-Broadway for 111 performances from 2006 to 2007. In this scene, Marcy and Austin cannot avoid talking about their exes during their first date. This comedic duet would give similar ones in “Rent” or “Avenue Q” a run for their money. Male Range: E3–F#4. Female Range: B3–A#4.9. “Unworthy of Your Love” from “Assassins”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OrvaV_lb95s This Sondheim musical is about a fairground game that turns into a revue-style portrayal of attempted and successful murders of U.S. presidents. This dark, comedic duet between John Hinckley Jr.and Lynette Fromme has them fantasize about their respective idols, Jodie Foster and Charles Manson. Male Range: B2–F#4. Female Range: A3–D5.10. “First Date/Last Night” from “Dogfight”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=unxhglH8ROw This Pasek and Paul musical, based on the 1991 film of the same name, opened off-Broadway in 2012 and closed after 35 performances. This duet between Rose and Birdlace takes place when they reconcile after Birdlace mistreats Rose at a party and they cautiously set out to a fancy dinner date. Male Range: C3–G4. Female Range: Bb3–D5.Think of a duet that we may have missed? Let us know in the comments below...
[post_title] => Top 10 Overlooked Male/Female Duets [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => overlooked-male-female-duets [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2016-11-29 17:26:35 [post_modified_gmt] => 2016-11-29 21:26:35 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => http://theatrenerds.com/?p=5568 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 30 [filter] => raw ) [17] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 5480 [post_author] => 12 [post_date] => 2016-11-27 13:45:41 [post_date_gmt] => 2016-11-27 17:45:41 [post_content] => Tech Week (n): An all-consuming period where artists forsake their friends, family and responsibilities to pull together a work of art by the skin of their teeth. Also known as “Hell Week.” Let’s be honest, as trying as tech may be, we all kind of secretly love the adrenaline rush, the panic and the magic that it brings. That said, it’s still kind of cray crazy. Here’s where you need to endure your next tech week experience:1. Caffeine
Coffee? Tea? Caffeinated sports beverage? Whatever your drink of choice is, stock up on it now. Tech week doesn’t care about your beauty sleep.
2. Antacids
For all those anxiety-ridden moments when you have no idea how those set changes and lighting cues will come together.
3. A Candle
To say a little prayer — or perhaps incense is more your speed. It’s okay, thespians are notoriously superstitious. You do you.
4. Earplugs
...To tune everyone out. There’s a lot of hubbub happening from every which way during tech, so sometimes you need to zen out for a sec.
5. An Inspirational Playlist
Other times, you need something special to pep you up and get yourself ready for some hard work and long hours under some very hot lights.
6. Inspiration for Your Makeup Mirror
Who doesn’t love a good inspirational quote above their dressing room mirror? Plus, you’re inspiring all those around you, too. It’s a win-win!
7. Yoga
Whether you do it in the wings, in the green room or between cues, taking a little time to center yourself and give your lumbar a little extra love never hurt anyone.
8. A Good Book
The action during tech week tends to come in spurts for actors, so expect to spend some serious downtime at the theatre. You can only run your lines so many times, so you’re going to eventually want to stimulate your mind with words that aren’t spoken by your character.
9. Sleep
Whenever you can, for as long as you can. Now is not the time to get sick.
10. A Reliable Alarm Clock
When rehearsal runs late and you’re run down, it’s easy to sleep through that buzzing alarm. Something a little stronger may be in order during tech.
11. Healthy Food
It’s important to eat healthy foods, but don’t take this as an opportunity to go on a crash diet so you look that much better in your costume. Take care of yourself and your body — you’re going to need the energy.
12. Glow Tape...and More Glow Tape
‘Cause you can never have enough.
13. Emergency Kit
Think a sewing kit, Band-Aids, body tape, snacks, extra water, breath mints and Advil...lots of Advil.
14. Your Calendar App
For those of us who don’t have personal assistants, keeping track of your schedule is the next best thing to get you through the most hectic week of your life.
15. A Pillow
This can be used for sleeping or your inevitable bout of tears. You know you’re going to cry at some point, but you just don’t know yet whether they’ll be happy tears or sad tears.
What are your tips for getting through tech week? Let us know in the comments below...
[post_title] => 15 Things To Help You Survive Tech Week [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => 15-things-to-help-you-survive-tech-week [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2018-05-04 09:55:30 [post_modified_gmt] => 2018-05-04 13:55:30 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => http://theatrenerds.com/?p=5480 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 2 [filter] => raw ) [18] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 5452 [post_author] => 11 [post_date] => 2016-11-26 11:51:50 [post_date_gmt] => 2016-11-26 15:51:50 [post_content] => [viralQuiz id=21] [post_title] => Quiz: Which Famous Stage Actor Should Be Your Scene Partner? [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => which-famous-stage-actor-should-be-your-scene-partner [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2016-11-26 11:51:50 [post_modified_gmt] => 2016-11-26 15:51:50 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => http://theatrenerds.com/?p=5452 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 6 [filter] => raw ) [19] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 5482 [post_author] => 440 [post_date] => 2016-11-22 11:35:51 [post_date_gmt] => 2016-11-22 15:35:51 [post_content] => It’s turkey time! And while that means delicious food and awkward encounters with relatives, it’s also the start of the holiday season. One month always seems like so much time, until you throw in all of the ugly sweater parties you have to attend and your other life obligations. Suddenly, it’s Christmas Eve, and you’re pulling a Chandler and Joey from “Friends” as you struggle to buy presents at a gas station. Well, Theatre Nerds is here to help, because spoiler alert, no one in your life needs toilet seat covers. We’ve compiled a collection of theatre-inspired gifts for everyone in your life, giving you a one-stop shop for all your presents and one fewer reason to set foot in the mall. So, grab your laptop, snuggle up with “Love Actually” and start crossing things off your holiday to-do list with this guide:For the Bibliophile
“Hamilton: The Revolution”
[caption id="attachment_5484" align="alignnone" width="550"] $27.00[/caption]
Give your favorite book lover a behind-the-scenes look at the making of the musical and the historical content that made it possible.
“Wicked/Son of a Witch”
[caption id="" align="alignnone" width="192"] $18.00[/caption]
This compilation edition of Gregory Maguire’s best-selling novels were the basis for the Tony Award-winning musical.
Magicbookmarks’ Hamilton Magnetic Bookmarks
[caption id="" align="alignnone" width="570"] $4+[/caption]
Never lose your page again with these adorable magnetic markers. Give them as a set, or spread the love.
For the Accessorizer
MamaBearImpressions’ These Are A Few Of My Favorite Things Jewelry and Trinket Dish
[caption id="attachment_5488" align="alignnone" width="400"] $15.00[/caption]
Hold all of your fan-wares in a gift fancy enough for the queen of elegance herself, Dame Julie Andrews.
Hamilton-Inspired “Not Throwing Away My Shot” Necklace
[caption id="attachment_5491" align="alignnone" width="300"] $16.95[/caption]
Right from our very own Swag Shop. Join the revolution with this tri-layer necklace It comes in an organic pouch, which makes it perfect for gift giving! (although we won't tell if it's just for you)
For the Fitness Fanatic
Theatre Nerds’ I Can’t I Have Rehearsal Tote Bag
[caption id="attachment_5495" align="alignnone" width="300"] $19.99[/caption]
Whether you’re bringing it to the gym, dance practice or even rehearsal, these totes are great for holding all the essentials.
For the Art Enthusiast
Etsy is full of gorgeous theatre-inspired prints perfect for brightening up any space.Gardarica’s Phantom of the Opera Watercolor Poster
[caption id="attachment_5497" align="alignnone" width="350"] $4.90[/caption]
AbbieImagine’s Les Misérables Print Minimalist Poster
[caption id="" align="alignnone" width="570"] $8.23[/caption]
Inception Print’s Rent Broadway Collection Quotes/Lyrics Typography Print
[caption id="attachment_5498" align="alignnone" width="300"] $8.87[/caption]
For the Proud Thespian
The “Theatre Snob” Hoodie
[caption id="attachment_5501" align="alignnone" width="300"] $32.99[/caption]
What says "Theatre Nerd" more than showing everyone how THEATRE should really be spelled. Available in tees, hoodies, mugs, & more.
The “Break Into Showtunes” Tee
[caption id="attachment_5502" align="alignnone" width="300"] $19.99[/caption]
Our best selling clothing design let's you warn the others before breaking into that ham-jam.
Sweeney Todd's Tee
[caption id="attachment_5504" align="alignnone" width="300"] $19.99[/caption]
Guaranteed closest shave in town!
vivalasvixen’s Book Clutch Wicked
[caption id="attachment_5506" align="alignnone" width="300"] $84.00[/caption]
Playbill’s Mary Poppins The Broadway Musical: Parrot Head Umbrella
[caption id="attachment_5507" align="alignnone" width="300"] $45.99[/caption]
Keep track of all of your assignments and rehearsals while being inspired by your favorite shows.
For the Passionate Philanthropist
Not only does this album feature songs from Broadway’s incredible casts, but it benefits Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS. Feel good while doing good, theatre-style.For the Caffeine Addict
Tech Week Apology Mug
[caption id="attachment_5512" align="alignnone" width="300"] $14.95[/caption]
The perfect way to say sorry while you're drinking coffee backstage :)
Also available in tees, hoodies, & tanks
For the Festive
You can never have too many ugly sweaters, and these are sure to put a smile on even the Grinchiest face.Theatre Nerds’ Happy Hamildays
[caption id="attachment_5509" align="alignnone" width="350"] $32.99[/caption]
AtomAgeIndustries’ Rocky Horror Picture Show Ugly Christmas Sweater
[caption id="attachment_5513" align="alignnone" width="300"] $27.99[/caption]
For the Phanatic
StorybookCraftGroup’s Phantom of the Opera Musical-Inspired Decorative Lantern
[caption id="attachment_5514" align="alignnone" width="300"] $40.00[/caption]
Light up the music with the night with this unique piece for the person in your life who is impossible to buy for. There is also a “Wicked” lantern available.
BONUS: STOCKING STUFFERS
Whether trimming the tree or decorating your binders for the new year, there is something for everyone.The “Thespian GPS” Sticker
[caption id="" align="alignnone" width="300"] $5.00[/caption]
What’s your favorite gift from the guide? Let us know in the comments below...
[post_title] => Theatre Nerds’ 2016 Holiday Gift Guide [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => theatre-nerds-2016-holiday-gift-guide [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2018-10-17 02:16:10 [post_modified_gmt] => 2018-10-17 06:16:10 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => http://theatrenerds.com/?p=5482 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [20] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 5450 [post_author] => 11 [post_date] => 2016-11-20 11:56:25 [post_date_gmt] => 2016-11-20 15:56:25 [post_content] => Auditions. They’re the best and worst part of being a thespian. Though many performers dread the nerve-wracking experience each and every time, a vital part of being an actor is understanding that they don’t always go as planned. Though we don’t endorse snapping at pianists or returning used shoes, it’s sometimes good to be reminded that even Broadway’s best have had their fair share of audition-room mishaps. Here are five crazy audition stories from star thespians:1. Audra McDonald
Though she has now achieved total queen status, Audra McDonald was once an ambitious Juilliard student. During her final audition for the renowned performing arts school, McDonald sang a classical aria without knowing anything about classical music, according to the Academy of Achievement. She proceeded to sing a mezzo soprano song after mentioning she was a lyric soprano. Of course, the Tony Award winner went on to land a spot at the prestigious institution. While this might not be the craziest of stories, we feel better knowing even McDonald’s auditions weren’t perfect.
2. Steven Pasquale
Though this “Bridges of Madison County” star was sure he killed it singing “Anthem” during an audition, a well-known casting director was less than impressed. In a Playbill interview, Pasquale said the experience quickly went south.
“[He asked me] if I studied singing, and that if I didn’t, I should. Then, he insulted the way I looked, and that was that,” Pasquale said.
Oops! Though he didn’t get the role, he was later given many offers by the director (only to refuse them) and has gone on to have a successful Broadway career.
3. Kelli O’Hara
This Broadway sweetheart recently played Carnegie Hall, but like many dedicated theatre nerds, Kelli O’Hara spent many years on that audition flow. In her early days as an aspiring NYC actress, she unknowingly encountered world-famous composer Marvin Hamlisch in an audition. In an effort to speed up her song, she snapped her fingers at Hamlisch to pick up the tempo on the piano, according to Playbill. Yikes. Fortunately, Hamlisch apparently found it charming and the part was hers.
4. Corey Cott
This memorable newsie found himself in a pickle during his final callback for “Wicked.”
“I sang/read, and then they had me come back and dance an hour later,” Cott told Playbill. “So I went to a Payless three blocks down and bought a pair of black sneakers.”
He returned the shoes after the dance audition — and landed the part!
5. Scarlett Strallen
During her final audition for “Mary Poppins,” this West End star was dished a spoonful of...salt? And by famed producer Cameron Mackintosh no less! According to Playbill, Strallen heard Mackintosh say, “Your hairstyle looks like a lampshade, dear!” Luckily, the insult broke the ice and helped her gain the confidence she needed.
Have your own crazy audition story? Tell us in the comments below...
[post_title] => 5 Crazy Audition Stories From 5 Famous Thespians [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => 5-crazy-audition-stories-from-5-famous-thespians [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2016-11-20 12:01:19 [post_modified_gmt] => 2016-11-20 16:01:19 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => http://theatrenerds.com/?p=5450 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [21] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 5193 [post_author] => 11 [post_date] => 2016-11-19 11:15:40 [post_date_gmt] => 2016-11-19 15:15:40 [post_content] => [viralQuiz id=19] [post_title] => Quiz: Which Lin-Manuel Miranda Character Said It: Hamilton or Usnavi? [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => which-lin-manuel-miranda-character-said-it-hamilton-or-usnavi [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2016-11-19 11:15:40 [post_modified_gmt] => 2016-11-19 15:15:40 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => http://theatrenerds.com/?p=5193 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 7 [filter] => raw ) [22] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 4841 [post_author] => 395 [post_date] => 2016-11-18 06:53:29 [post_date_gmt] => 2016-11-18 10:53:29 [post_content] => After a brief, two-season run, musical comedy “Galavant” has finally taken its place among many other canceled-before-their-time TV shows sitting on the shelves of Netflix. The show follows the adventures of heralded knight Galavant as he travels with his squire, Sid, and Princess Isabella to win back the heart of Madalena, who chooses a life of fame and fortune over true love after she’s kidnapped by King Richard. “Galavant” was created and written by Dan Fogelman (writer of “Crazy, Stupid, Love” and “Tangled”), with music and lyrics by Alan Menken (composer of pretty much everything...seriously, google it) and Glenn Slater (“A Bronx Tale,” “Tangled,” and “Sausage Party”). The show gets a little muddy plot-wise from there, as the initial villains and heroes tend to switch places more than once throughout the series (if you can believe that from a program with a grand total of eight 20-minute episodes). Needless to say, whether you managed to catch the show while it was on the air or are sitting here wondering, “Uh...who names their kid Galavant?” this show is an absolutely perfect watch for theatre lovers. Here are five random reasons why you need to add “Galavant” to your Netflix queue immediately and furiously binge-watch it from beginning to end:1. Its Musical Spoofs Were on Point
Though “Galavant” features all original music, it tends to borrow a couple of tricks and triads from classic musical theatre. The ditty “Dwarves vs. Giants” pits against each other two similarly sized gangs a la “Tonight” in “West Side Story,” while peasants led by an overzealous Sid charge a castle to the tune of “Today We Rise,” which is oddly close to “Can You Hear the People Sing?” from “Les Miserables.” However, this song spends a lot more time discussing all the terrible things that will happen to them as part of their rebellion and how much they’ll all regret doing so tomorrow. Theatre fans will also appreciate the love song “Finally,” which gets pretty close to “Summer Nights,” if “Grease” featured love-obsessed zombies instead of 1950s teenagers.
2. King Richard = The Literal Best
Launching into “Galavant,” it doesn’t take long for the evil king fantasy trope to melt away as you get to know King Richard, who balances his unprecipitated ruthlessness with a childlike desire to be liked and taken seriously as a king. Watching this character’s transformation over the two seasons is both fascinating and utterly entertaining, and Timothy Omundson nails every second of it.
3. It Has Inexplicably Fabulous Celebrity Cameos
John Stamos might not be the first person who comes to mind when you think about medieval musicals, but he’s just one of many celebs who join in on all the song and dance of “Galavant.” Stamos, who plays Sir Jean Hamm, a jousting competitor with a penchant for Yo Mama jokes, and is joined by the ranks of Weird Al, who plays a monk who has taken a vow of silence (except for singing, obviously), and Ricky Gervais, who plays a spiritual guide named Xanax who helps King Richard face some truths about his past. Other guest stars include “Downton Abbey’s” Hugh Bonneville playing a landlocked pirate captain and Kylie Minogue playing the sultry owner of a medieval gay bar -- are you intrigued yet?
4. The Show Was Super Self-Aware
One great thing about “Galavant” is that it really played up its meta side and knew it was on the chopping block for the majority of its time on air. The fact that it got a second season surprised many people, leading to the first episode of that season to be titled “Suck It, Cancellation Bear.” The first episode even began with a song with the lines, “Skip the football matches / and the globes made out of gold / Screw all those apprentices / and every bachelorette / Give into the miracle that no one thought we’d get!” Catching all the subtle digs at the network and all the pop culture references is reason enough to watch it multiple times through.
5. The Romances...and the Bromances
The love stories of “Galavant” don’t always show off the most romantic sides of love — after all, Season 1 songs include “Maybe You’re Not the Worst Thing Ever” and “Love Is Strange.” But, you have to admit, there are some excellent pairings on this show, from Cook and Gwynne to Isabella and Galavant to Roberta and King Richard.
Even the villains are stupidly cute together — the notoriously stoic Gareth sings the greatest love song of all, where he describes his heart as “this chunk of my chest keeps flum-flumpin’ away” and his lovesick smile as “my lip-ends, look how they twist up!” Sigh...that’s the kind of love you only read about in books.
And yes, the show has plenty of beautiful bromances as well, with the budding friendship between King Richard and Galavant in Season 2 and the loyalty between Gareth and King Richard in Season 1.
Though watching “Galavant” might make you want to shake the TV screaming “WHY? WHY WERE YOU CANCELED SO SOON?!” there is hope for another iteration of the Galavant story in our favorite spot: the stage. Rumors continue to fly that “Galavant” will live on in the form of a musical, which we can only hope will come to fruition sooner rather than later. With other shows such as “Smash” morphing into concerts and musicals, it remains to be seen how this short-lived legend could continue beyond the confines of television.
Where to watch?
Stream both seasons on Netflix
orStream both seasons on Amazon HERE
What's your favorite Galavant moment? Leave a reply below...
[post_title] => Why 'Galavant' Is The Perfect Show For Theatre Lovers [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => why-galavant-is-the-perfect-show-for-theatre-lovers [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2016-11-18 17:19:52 [post_modified_gmt] => 2016-11-18 21:19:52 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => http://theatrenerds.com/?p=4841 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 1 [filter] => raw ) [23] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 5415 [post_author] => 12 [post_date] => 2016-11-16 10:36:06 [post_date_gmt] => 2016-11-16 14:36:06 [post_content] => Every thespian has a meltdown now and again — after all, it’s called drama, isn’t it? Here is a list of freakout moments that can get to even the coolest of cucumbers once in awhile:1. Where’s My Prop?!?!
You’re about to make your entrance, and suddenly, you can’t find that all-important phone you need to answer during your scene or some other inanimate object that’s essential to you not looking like a total fool in the next 30 seconds. And no, making a fake phone with your fingers is not going to cut it.
2. Shuuuuushhhhh!
There’s nothing quite like that moment when all your backstage hijinks can be heard by the audience and the fourth wall has definitely, definitely been broken.
3. But, I Have Rehearsal...
Whether you have to attend your cousin’s wedding, jury duty or your high school graduation, life happens — and so does rehearsal. You’d sooner miss your own prom than miss rehearsal, so how do you choose?
4. I Lost My Voice
You’re two days away from opening night and your voice suddenly sounds less like a soaring soprano and more like … well, nothing at all. Yep, it’s okay to freak out.
5. Who Took My Cold Cream?
Actors tend to have special attachments to their makeup boxes and the contents inside, so when they’re messed with, it sparks a fury no one ever thought a missing eye pencil could cause. No words can describe your feelings when you can’t find your cold cream after a show.
6. That’s My Song!
It’s a terrifying moment at any audition when someone sings the same 16 bars you’re about to sing. You know it’s bound to happen sometimes, but it’s still a total bummer when it happens to you.
7. How Many Lines?
Whether you have to memorize too many lines in a small amount of time or have too few lines than you thought you’d have, line counting always brings out the anxiety in any actor.
8. I Can’t Find My Other Tap Shoe!
A missing wardrobe piece is just as bad as a missing prop — or worse, depending on what it is. Tap dancing with one shoe is pretty bad, but missing your pants might be just a teensy bit worse.
9. The Cast List Freakout
The dreaded cast list posting is sure to cause a fuss one way or another. Whether your director is taking too long to post it or your name isn’t where you thought it would be on the list, you’re gonna need an antacid and a yoga class to get your nerves untangled after it goes up.
10. My Makeup Mirror Space, Your Makeup Mirror Space
Dressing room real estate is a big deal. As much as you love your castmates, you don’t love it so much when their wig head and flat iron end up in your prep area.
11. The Dropped Line
You’re onstage, it’s your cue and your mind is totally blank — except for the part that’s freaking out wondering whether it would be better to make a jump for it into the orchestra pit.
12. The Stepped-Upon Line
No actor likes it when his or her lines are stepped on. You may accept that this happens sometimes, but when it becomes a chronic problem, you tend to go just a little crazy.
13. The Near-Impossible Quick Change
It’s cool, you just have to change out of your costume completely and switch your hairstyle and makeup in 20 seconds. No need to freak out; it’s plenty of time. Oh, don’t forget you have to run through the lobby first to enter from the opposite side of the stage. Totally cool.
14. Quiet in the Wings!
You’re trying to quiet your mind and center yourself before your big, dramatic entrance, and a fellow thespian won’t stop whisper-talking your ear off. Hey, zip it!
15. How Many Pirouettes?
Your choreographer expects you to be the next Baryshnikov in your “Guys and Dolls” number; meanwhile, you’re still trying to master the plié.
16. Crickets
Your laugh lines didn’t get any laughs, so you blame the acoustics and then go home to cry into your pillow.
What are some of the top moments that make you and your fellow thespians go totally batty? Let us know in the comments below...
[post_title] => 16 Perfectly Good Reasons Theatre Kids Occasionally Freak Out [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => 16-perfectly-good-reasons-theatre-kids-occasionally-freak-out [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2017-07-11 18:18:44 [post_modified_gmt] => 2017-07-11 22:18:44 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => http://theatrenerds.com/?p=5415 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 2 [filter] => raw ) [24] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 5422 [post_author] => 714 [post_date] => 2016-11-15 10:39:32 [post_date_gmt] => 2016-11-15 14:39:32 [post_content] => Anyone who has ever been to the Big Apple can tell you firsthand what it was like being in the city for the first time. If you’re a theatre nerd, you might remember the first Broadway show you saw or the exciting feeling you had while walking in Times Square with all the billboards lit up at night. Depending on how much time you have to visit the Great White Way, here are some iconic places and hidden gems any theatre lover cannot afford to miss:1. Sardi’s
Located on West 44th Street in the Theatre District, Sardi’s Restaurant is the ultimate tourist destination for the Broadway enthusiast. Sardi’s is best known for its collection of caricatures from the Broadway scene. This tradition began when Vincent Sardi decided to recreate a restaurant in Paris with caricatures of film celebrities. Instead, he honored Broadway. He hired artist Alex Gard to draw the caricatures, and he continued to draw in exchange for free meals until he died in 1948. Sardi’s is also the famous site of where Brock Pemberton created the idea of the Tony Awards to honor Antoinette Perry.
sardis.com
2. Ellen’s Stardust Diner
Ellen’s Stardust Diner in Times Square is not just a dining experience — it is also a 1950s-style diner with a singing waitstaff, the Stardusters. You can eat some classic American food while hearing your favorite Broadway showtunes and other popular songs. Open from 7 a.m. to midnight, it’s the perfect place to grab some grub with the family before a matinee or evening show.
ellensstardustdiner.com
3. Shubert Alley
Shubert Alley, which links West 44th and 45th streets, earned its name from successful producers Lee and Jacob J. Schubert, whose offices overlooked the alley. It originally functioned as an exit for the Shubert and Booth theaters, and actors were often seen lining up in the alley for audition calls. Today, Shubert Alley is not only an iconic landmark for show business, but it is the location of many popular Broadway events, such as Stars in the Alley, Broadway Barks and Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS Flea Market and Auction. Shubert Alley is also home to One Shubert Alley, a gift shop exclusively for Broadway lovers and theatre nerds.
4. Joe Allen
Located on West 46th Street, Joe Allen Restaurant is Sardi’s antithesis. Instead of glorifying Broadway’s greatest accomplishments, it celebrates all the flops that have come and gone on the Great White Way. The tradition started when the cast of the show “Kelly” gave the restaurant a poster for their show. When the show closed after one performance, Joe Allen decided he might as well hang it up in the restaurant. While no producer hopes to see their show on the wall in Joe Allen’s, it’s nice to know that even the most unlucky Broadway shows aren’t forgotten.
joeallenrestaurant.com
5. The Drama Book Shop
The Drama Book Shop is hands-down the best resource for theatrical material in NYC. It has a supply of over 8,000 plays and is the working actor’s dreamland. The shop also has a black box theatre in the basement, workshops upstairs and a balcony of musical scores in addition to a plethora of resources for anyone in show business. Find a comfy chair and browse through plays to find your next go-to monologue!
dramabookshop.com
6. 54 Below
If you want to experience the thrill of a Broadway show in a more relaxed setting, look no further than Broadway’s living room, Feinstein’s/54 Below. This nightclub and dining atmosphere hosts up to three shows per night, so there is always something fun to see! A popular hangout for Broadway stars to blow off steam, let loose, and give intimate concerts. If you’re currently a student with a high school or college ID, it offers half-price student rush tickets 30 minutes before the show. Or, if you only want to get a quick, quality meal, pre-show dining starts at 5 p.m. and goes until around 6:30 p.m. If you want to see some of your favorite Broadway stars and enjoy a night of live music, stop by West 54th Street between Broadway and 8th for an elegant night on the town!
54below.com
What is a “must-do” on your NYC bucket list? Let us know in the comments below...
[post_title] => The Theatre Nerds Guide To New York: 6 Places You Must Visit [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => theatre-nerds-guide-to-new-york-6-places-you-must-visit [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2016-11-15 10:41:12 [post_modified_gmt] => 2016-11-15 14:41:12 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => http://theatrenerds.com/?p=5422 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [25] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 4272 [post_author] => 395 [post_date] => 2016-11-14 11:54:47 [post_date_gmt] => 2016-11-14 15:54:47 [post_content] => You’re at it again. There’s a bag slung over your shoulder and sheet music tucked under your arm. You painstakingly check your reflection in your cell phone, trill your lips up and down the scales and chug water — but not too much, of course. Living the audition life is a feat as easy as landing a bell kick while belting a high-A in six-inch heels. And whether you’re waiting in traffic, waiting for your name to be called or waiting for a callback, you’ll spend a ton of time at the mercy of the American Idol-like panel judging your every move. The next time you’re agonizingly waiting to hear whether you’ve made the cut, pop in your headphones and listen to our Audition Playlist, a collection of songs that feature the best — and worst — of the audition life as you inch your way closer and closer to your big break.1. I Hope I Get It
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VvHAoFLAiEU This song from “A Chorus Line” is the quintessential audition song, with its crazy fast pacing and daunting number of hopeful dancers trying to make the cut. Listen to this one when you really need this job and are crossing your fingers (and toes) to get it.2. Casting Call for a Best Friend
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BWUv9jxWVWU We all know that one person who somehow manages to show up at every single audition you’ve found within a 50-mile range. This person looks like you, talks like you, sings like you and dances like you, and it’s really starting to get on your nerves. Crank this one up when you’re in the mood to belt your face off and get out some pent-up aggression about that one person who is always stealing your dream part. Even better, find a friend to sing it with you.3. Climbing Uphill
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jGLmV7ShnRM This tune from “The Last Five Years” absolutely captures some of the frustrations that come with the audition process. If your audition didn’t go as well as you wanted it to, cheer yourself up by singing Cathy’s self-deprecating inner monologue. Trust me, it will make you feel just a tad better.4. I’m a Star
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uRaGu9S24JU You did it! You nailed your audition, right down to the very last note! Turn up the volume for this jam as you burst your way through the doors and celebrate your budding stardom. Your include it in your pre-audition mix for an extra boost of confidence. You know you’re a star, and now it’s time for the rest of the world to find out too.5. Auditions
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=egE8W0QMPpI For all you “Romeo and Juliet” lovers out there, this “Bare” tune perfectly captures all the hustle and bustle of a high school audition. Everyone wants a part, there aren’t enough roles to go around and ultimately, the person whose father owns a camcorder is favored when the cast list goes up (as the daughter of a videographer, I am now instantly questioning my own high school theater career — thanks a lot, “Bare”).6. Smash!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x1nB7RJaB6s Okay, okay, so just to clarify, I’m definitely not advocating for flirting with a director for a part. However, this “Smash” tune is so catchy and fun to sing that it deserves a spot on our Audition Playlist, even if it’s just for dancing around your room in front of a mirror to pump yourself up.7. Electricity
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=muBrh7Y5ZL0 “Electricity” from “Billy Elliot” is for when you’ve forgotten how it feels when you’re onstage, your skin glowing from the spotlights and adrenaline coursing through your veins as the audience erupts into thunderous applause. Let’s be honest, no one loves auditioning. The rejection is devastating, it’s impossible to ever fully prepare and 16 bars never feels quite long enough to fully show off. However, through all of the nonsense, it’s good to be reminded once in awhile of the reason why you go through with it, the reason you stay the course even when things get hard: You love it.8. Let Me Be Your Star
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=argqfANVblg This “Smash” anthem beautifully represents all the hopes attached to every audition you go through. All it takes is one to be your big break, if someone will just give you the chance to let you be their star. Whether you’ve been to more auditions than you can count or are facing your first one ever, this playlist will pump you up and make you feel less alone in your pursuit of theatrical fame.What are your favorite pre-audition jams? Leave a reply below...
[post_title] => 8 Songs For Your Pre-Audition Playlist [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => 8-songs-for-your-pre-audition-playlist [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2018-09-05 08:48:11 [post_modified_gmt] => 2018-09-05 12:48:11 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => http://theatrenerds.com/?p=4272 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [26] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 5397 [post_author] => 11 [post_date] => 2016-11-12 10:55:34 [post_date_gmt] => 2016-11-12 14:55:34 [post_content] => Whether you’re singing “one day more” until the weekend or you’re “own your own” during the long commute home, there’s nothing quite like a meme to boost your spirits. Take a peek at this set of fabulous fan-made “Les Misérables” memes, and we promise you’ll feel anything but le miserable.1.
Because, appropriate…
2.
Seriously. Get a life, Javert.
3.
We can’t even argue.
4.
There’s also a bizarre number of “‘Mean Girls”-related “Les Mis” memes.
5.
See?
6.
We told you. “Les Mis” and “Mean Girls” are a match made in heaven.
7.
Really.
8.
There’s so many. (And we love them.)
9.
This one was practically asking to be made.
10.
There are even non-‘Les Mis’ ‘Les Mis’ memes
11.
Including this one with the most miserable of them all, Grumpy Cat!
12.
When you can commiserate with Aladdin...
13.
But... it's pretty much true!
14.
Javert, master of disguise.
15.
Touche.
16.
Reasonable.
17.
Les Miserable photoshop skills.
18.
“...and memes were made and used and wasted…”
And that's a wrap folks!
You May Like: Think Of Meme Fondly: 18 Memes All Phans Will Definitely Appreciate
Which ‘Les Mis’ meme is your favorite? Leave us a comment below!
[post_title] => 18 ‘Les Mis’ Memes That Have Officially Gone Too Far [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => 18-les-mis-memes-that-have-officially-gone-too-far [to_ping] => [pinged] => https://theatrenerds.com/think-meme-fondly-18-memes-phans-will-definitely-appreciate/ [post_modified] => 2019-03-11 10:48:17 [post_modified_gmt] => 2019-03-11 14:48:17 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => http://theatrenerds.com/?p=5397 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [27] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 5394 [post_author] => 717 [post_date] => 2016-11-11 11:32:41 [post_date_gmt] => 2016-11-11 15:32:41 [post_content] => Subtitled “The Adventures of a Girl Who Wanted to Be Loved,” “Sweet Charity” follows the misadventures of the aptly named Charity Hope Valentine, a taxi dancer looking for love in all the wrong places in 1960s New York City. Directed and choreographed by the one-and-only Bob Fosse and starring his equally talented wife and muse, Gwen Verdon, “Sweet Charity” opened at the Palace Theatre on Jan. 29, 1966. A modest hit, it played 608 performances and closed on July 15, 1967. A movie version was released in 1969, and Broadway revivals occurred in 1986 and 2005. The show has now returned to New York — this time off-Broadway — in a pared-down version presented by The New Group and starring beloved triple threat Sutton Foster. To celebrate the new revival’s opening night on Nov. 13, here are 10 things you might not know about “Sweet Charity”:1. It’s Based on a Film
“Sweet Charity” is based on “Nights of Cabiria,” a 1957 Academy Award-winning film directed by famed Italian director Federico Fellini. Besides the obvious major change of resetting the story from Rome to New York, the biggest change is Cabiria/Charity’s occupation — Cabiria is a “hooker with a heart of gold.” This had to be softened for American musical audiences in 1966, so Charity works instead as a taxi dancer at the Fandango Ballroom. *Sidebar question: What the heck is a taxi dancer? In the early 20th century, men could go to dance halls and pay to dance with the woman of their choice, usually for 10 cents a song (thus the famous Rodgers & Hart song “Ten Cents a Dance.”) However, by the 1960s, taxi dance halls were not nearly as common. It’s suggested, at least in “Sweet Charity,” that most of the women who were still taxi dancers were willing to do more than just dance, if the price is right.2. It Was Originally Going to Be Only One Act
It was initially reported in 1964 that Fosse and Verdon were working on a new show consisting of two one-acts. Besides the Fellini adaptation, the other one-act was to be an original straight play written by Elaine May. Verdon was to play a cat burglar who robbed apartments by wearing suction cups on her hands and feet and climbing straight up building walls.3. The Book Spurred Potential Legal Drama
While Fosse wanted to be involved in the book writing, he knew he needed a collaborator and turned to Martin Charnin. The two turned out a 60-page first draft for their one-act musical. Then, according to Charnin, he never heard from Fosse again. On advice from his lawyer, Charnin attended opening night of “Sweet Charity” with a stenographer, who wrote down every word of the show as it was being said so Charnin could compare the finished script with the original first draft. However, he eventually decided against any legal action.4. Bob Fosse Begged Neil Simon to Write the Book
Once it was decided to develop “Sweet Charity” into a full show, Fosse wrote a draft of the new script by himself. Knowing he needed help, he begged his friend, author Neil Simon, to help him and sent him the script. Simon made a few notes but said he wasn’t able to help him any more than that because he was in Rome to film his screenplay “After the Fox” and was writing the screenplay for “Barefoot in the Park” at the same time. However, after reading Simon’s notes, Fosse wouldn’t take “no” for an answer. He immediately flew out to Rome to try to convince Simon and his wife. As Fosse began to explain the show in detail, he played a recording of one of the songs for the new show called “Big Spender.” Simon and his wife were hooked, and Simon agreed to write the book.5. Early Drafts List the Book Author as ‘Bert Lewis’
If you happen to look at an early piece of sheet music for “Sweet Charity,” you might be surprised to find the book’s author is listed as Bert Lewis. Who is Bert Lewis? Well, because Simon came aboard so late (rehearsals began only a few weeks after Simon agreed to write the book), early sheet music had to be printed with Fosse still listed as the book writer, under the pen name “Bert Lewis.” This was a play on his full name, Robert Louis Fosse.6. Sweet Charity’ Opened at The Palace, and Vice-Versa
The Palace Theatre on Broadway and 47th Street, right in the middle of Times Square, is a legendary theatre. It was the be-all and end-all for the vaudeville circuit. There was no greater honor than getting to “play the Palace.” The likes of Charlie Chaplin, Fanny Brice, the Marx Brothers, Weber and Fields and so many others graced the stage of the Palace. Over the years, however, vaudeville started to die out and the theatre began showing movies. In the face of poor upkeep and waning interest, the theatre was purchased by the Nederlanders, who renovated it and reopened it as Broadway’s newest legitimate theatre with the opening of “Sweet Charity.”7. Gwen Verdon Got a Frog — Er, a Boa — in Her Throat
During the show’s pre-Broadway engagement in Philadelphia, Verdon began to complain of a sore throat. As she continued to perform, the pain got worse and she started having trouble breathing. She was convinced something was stuck in her throat. As it turned out, she was right. Verdon had inhaled a feather from a prop feather boa, and it was wrapped around the star’s vocal chords. Verdon continued to perform until no sound would come out of her mouth and the pain was unbearable. She took a week off the show to get it surgically removed.8. Verdon Paid for an Ill-Timed Singing Break
Late in the Broadway run, Verdon started to get tired. So, to give herself a break if need be, she would sometimes cut the Act 2 ballad, “Where Am I Going?” which she’d never liked singing in the first place. At one performance, a gentleman noticed the song had suddenly been cut and expressed his unhappiness by writing a letter to Verdon complaining about the missing song. He claimed he spent hard-earned money to see her perform and felt cheated. Verdon decided to find out how much time the song took to perform and factored that against the price of a ticket. She sent the man a check for the prorated amount he’d lost.9. Tragedy Struck the 1986 Revival
The 1986 revival of “Sweet Charity” had won four Tony Awards, including Best Revival. The national tour of the revival was set to launch in Washington, D.C. and star Donna McKechnie as Charity. After the final rehearsal, Fosse and Verdon decided to walk back to their hotel to change for opening night. Tragedy struck when Fosse suffered a heart attack. He died soon afterward at George Washington University Hospital with Verdon by his side.10. There Were Seven Charitys For One Revival
The latest Broadway revival of “Sweet Charity” opened on May 4, 2005 and starred Christina Applegate as Charity. However, before then, a slew of actresses had been named to be the titular dance hall hostess with the mostest. In early 2000, it was rumored that Paula Abdul would star in a revival and choreograph it. Later, when the Weisslers got involved, it was announced that Jenna Elfman of “Dharma & Greg” fame would star, with the production aiming for spring 2003. However, Elfman backed out and it was announced that Academy Award winner Marisa Tomei would make her Broadway musical debut in the lead role. Sadly, the workshops had not been going well, and Tomei was told she would not continue with the production. The producers announced that workshops would continue, now with Jane Krakowski, who was hot off her Tony win for the 2003 revival of “Nine.” Things hit another roadblock when Krakowski wanted rewrites and a more modern approach to Charity’s characterization. She also majorly clashed with Simon. After another search, Applegate was announced and the dates were set. But things are never so easy. The star broke a bone in her foot while performing in the pre-Broadway tryout in Chicago. Her standby was the well-loved Charlotte d’Amboise, and it was announced she would open the show in the next tryout city, Boston, while the producers decided how to proceed. It seemed like a 1930s backstage movie in which the understudy was about to get her big break. But, as this was real life, the producers decided to close the show out of town instead. Injured star Applegate would not hear of it. She vowed to recover in time for opening night on Broadway and, having convinced the Weisslers to proceed, she delivered. Late in the Broadway run, a wild rumor spread through the theatre world that Applegate would be leaving and would be replaced by pop icon Britney Spears. It seemed like that might actually happen when Playbill reported Spears was in negotiations to join the cast and move the show to the bigger Hilton (now Lyric) Theatre. Talks fell through, of course, and the revival closed on Dec. 31, 2005. The latest revival of “Sweet Charity” will play through Jan. 8th at the Pershing Square Signature Center. Who knows how many fun facts will come out of this production! [post_title] => 10 Things You Might Not Know About ‘Sweet Charity’ [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => 10-things-you-might-not-know-about-sweet-charity [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2016-11-11 11:33:41 [post_modified_gmt] => 2016-11-11 15:33:41 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => http://theatrenerds.com/?p=5394 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 1 [filter] => raw ) [28] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 5412 [post_author] => 1 [post_date] => 2016-11-10 11:26:51 [post_date_gmt] => 2016-11-10 15:26:51 [post_content] => By guest contributor Teresa McGriffAsk not what your director can do for you — ask what you can do for your directorI know we’d all like to think that the director has a rather cushy position in a production. I mean, they don’t make anything, they don’t perform and they don’t run the show — all they really do is show up and tell everyone else to do. Right? They have all the power. By now, all the directors reading this are like:
Well, consider this: For a person with so much power, directors have surprisingly little control. It’s this fact that will ultimately drive any director a little crazy.
You see, a good director approaches each project with a vision and master plan. In their minds, they create an ideal idea upon which the entire show is based.
Directors surround themselves with helpers to create this vision. The designers take the idea and make it a reality, the stage manager keeps everyone on time, on task and on spot, the actors bring it to life and the crew puts in the hard labor to make it all happen.
Directors work with all of them and do their best to get what is in their head out onto the stage. And, they are on the lookout for people who will do the same. But, it’s a competitive world out there. What can you do to prove you’re the best person for the job? How are you going to stand out?
The following are five things you can do to impress your director and help bring their vision of the show to life:
1. Focus, Pay Attention and Listen Up!
This one is kind of obvious, but there’s a reason why it’s No. 1: It’s what all directors want more than anything else in the world, and yet it seems to be the hardest for people to abide by. A director’s job is to communicate their vision, and they do this by talking a bit. Okay, a lot. We mean a lot. We’ve all been stuck in a post-rehearsal notes session a little before midnight, listening to our director give a full page of notes for every single scene in the play. Inside, we’re all just praying for them to shut up.
However, a good director will never give up on that vision and will therefore talk until they die if that means they’ll be able to get you to heed what they say. You might as well make peace with it and stop talking during notes. Who knows? It may even mean you get out of rehearsal at a (relatively) reasonable hour.
2. Do Your Part
Your director depends on you to do a lot of things, such as be on time, learn your lines and remember your blocking. However, there are many lesser-known things your director needs from you that you may not have thought of. First of all, read the play. Not just your scenes, not just your part — the whole thing. The readthrough should not be the first time everyone reads the play. I’m not saying you need to have all your lines memorized, but you should come to that first get-together with a general knowledge of the show and your part. Next, come with ideas of your own. Whether you’re an actor or a techie, it’s important for you to be passionate about working on the show, and that can only happen when you’re invested in it. In the end, it’s obviously the director’s show and sometimes they have to say “no” to keep the production consistent with their vision, but most of the time, they want to give you the freedom to make suggestions. Believe it or not, a director’s favorite word is not “No.” Last, do your research. Look up the things you don’t understand. Get yourself acquainted with the play, the world it depicts, the history of it and your role in it. Don’t be caught being the one person in the group who is constantly saying, “I don’t know.”3. Get Personal
Personal space just doesn’t work in theatre. We’re not just talking about physical space, which you can expect will be intruded upon immediately upon meeting the costume crew and their endless supply of measuring tape. We’re also talking about intellectual and emotional space.
There should be a disclaimer on every audition sheet that reads, “This show contains emotions and, if cast, you will be expected to connect. Can you do this? Check yes or no.”
Good theatre is visceral. It’s intimate. It’s personal. You cannot have a great show if you aren’t committed to that. You have to let your guard down and let people in. You have to share your feelings and connect with the material and the other people you are working with. As a natural introvert, I can totally understand how hard it can be to tear down those inner walls. But once you do, you’ll find a power within yourself that you never knew you had. You will get rave reviews, the admiration of your peers and the deepest respect of your director.
4. It’s All About the Sound
Directors are quite obsessed with sound — mostly your sounds. However, it all comes down to this simplest of directions: Be quiet backstage and be loud onstage.
So, when you’re offstage, you need to learn to do a special backstage tiptoe walk. Heels and tap shoes should stay off your feet until just before your cue to enter. You have to learn to communicate by reading lips and gesticulating wildly. It’s the quietest — and most intense — game of charades you’ll ever play in your life. If you feel a sneeze or cough coming on, run like the dickens (quietly, of course) to the dressing room to let it out.
Onstage is entirely different. When you’re onstage, the director never seems to hear you, unless you don’t want them to. It’s something about the acoustics.
According to a great professor I once had, the following are the three rules of elocution:
- Enunciate
- Work on your diction
- Honor the ends of your lines
5. Play
I know this seems like a strange one, especially because so many people think this is all we do in theatre anyways. However, so often in the process of the show, we get so focused on getting things done that we forget to play. And playing is very important, as it is both a tool and a way to learn. So, do it. Put yourself out there. Try new things. You never know when your director will leap out of their seat and yell, “I love it! Keep it!”
Directors, don’t forget to encourage this, too. It promotes participation and trust, keeps everyone on their toes and ensures people are invested. Most importantly, it makes rehearsals more relaxed and fun, which is why everyone participates in this in the first place.
By keeping these five things in mind, you can make your director love you — and you want your director to love you. Most directors tend to be very loyal and like working with people they know and trust. Essentially, theatre is a big gamble. No one wants to fail, so directors make safe bets by getting the best people on board. Once you’ve proven to a director that you are a tried-and-true talent, you can make your own bets that you will be one of the first people they turn to.
Are you a director? What other things can actors do to impress? Leave a reply below...
[post_title] => 5 Things You Can Do To Impress Your Director [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => 5-things-you-can-do-to-impress-your-director [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2016-11-10 11:26:51 [post_modified_gmt] => 2016-11-10 15:26:51 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => http://theatrenerds.com/?p=5412 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 2 [filter] => raw ) [29] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 5320 [post_author] => 1 [post_date] => 2016-11-08 10:11:58 [post_date_gmt] => 2016-11-08 14:11:58 [post_content] => Contributed by Carmel Suchard1. It’s totally fine to inform me if there’s a problem with your costume.
I’m here to help you tell the story of the show as best as you can. That can’t happen if your shoes are too small, your pants too big, or if you keep tripping on your skirt’s hem. I’m happy to resolve any issues, but you have to communicate with me.
2. At the same time, don’t be a diva.
Your costume might not fit your personal style, but it does fit the overall look of the show. Despite what you might think, I have spent a lot of time thinking about the way you’ll look on stage. So if you’re playing a poor farmer, please don’t come to me complaining that you don’t look “cute” enough. Also, I don’t have control over everything. Many details come from the director’s concept, so if you have an issue you’ll have to take it up with him or her.
3. I don’t care what your body looks like.
You were cast in this play because the director thought that you were the best actor for the job. Period. Besides, I’ve seen it all. So there is no need to be embarrassed about your weight, height, stretch marks, acne, etc.
4. Your underclothes really do matter.
If I ask you to wear a certain kind of underwear/bra/dance belt it’s because your costume won’t look right if you don’t. If I ask you to bring said underwear/bra/dance belt to a fitting, please do. I need to know exactly how you’re going to look on stage. Same goes for shoes.
5. It’s worth your time to be nice to me.
First of all, I’m an industry professional. The same industry that you’re trying to break into. I know a lot of other costume designers, actors, and directors, and if you’re rude your name will come up. And you really can’t afford to burn bridges. Secondly, I have the power to make you look bad on stage. So be nice.
6. You need to know that costumes take a really long time to make.
I had to buy a pattern, choose fabrics, cut out the pattern pieces, sew them together, alter them to your body … you see where this is going. The process takes a lot of time and effort. Even if I bought or reused old costumes, choosing them took many, many hours. So please treat them with respect. Every time an actor throws a costume on the floor, eats in costume, or gets makeup on a costume, a designer’s soul dies a little bit.
Are you a costume designer? What else would you like actors to know? Leave a reply below...
[post_title] => 6 Things Your Costume Designer Wants You To Know [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => 6-things-your-costume-designer-wants-you-to-know [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2016-11-08 10:34:57 [post_modified_gmt] => 2016-11-08 14:34:57 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => http://theatrenerds.com/?p=5320 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 16 [filter] => raw ) [30] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 4834 [post_author] => 12 [post_date] => 2016-11-06 11:42:27 [post_date_gmt] => 2016-11-06 15:42:27 [post_content] => The scene partner lottery can seem like a real let down sometimes. Try thinking of it as a challenge, after all, the greatest actors can work with anyone and still astound audiences with their brilliance. But, just in case you still feel like whining about it, here are some worst scene partner types you can commiserate with as well as some tips on how to deal.1. The Note Giver
The actor who gives another actor a note. *BIG SIGH* As much as you want to scream “no, no, no” to them and explain acting etiquette 101, just nod your head and try to ignore them. Let them think you’re daft for not taking their brilliant insight and try to forget it.
2. The Un-memorized
It’s show time and they still aren’t off-book. Nothing like a not knowing what’s going to come out of their mouth next to keep you in the moment! This is a scenario where knowing all the lines and the layout of the scene is key so you can recover any blunders or dropped lines.
3. On Drugs or Possibly Crazy
Everyone has worked with that one actor who’s just a little off. It can be unsettling. It can be brilliant. It can cause you ulcers. Do your best to roll with the punches and chalk it up to experience.
4. The Combatant
The scene partner who takes the on-stage physical aggression too far. This is never okay. If you ever feel unsafe on-stage speak to your director ASAP.
5. The Arguer
This actor has a chip on their shoulder and feels the need to argue with everyone including the director. Best to stay out of it and create distance from the arguer. Never provoke the arguer no matter how entertaining.
6. Diva
We’ve all known one. We’ve all been one. Just tell them how pretty they are and hope for the best.
7. The Unwelcomed Improviser
The actor who improvises during a scripted scene when improving is not welcomed. It can be disorienting, it can throw off the timing, it can occasionally, be brilliant. That said, it’s best not to improvise if it’s not what the piece or the director calls for unless it’s out of necessity as in a dropped line. If you’re stuck with the unwelcomed improviser stay on your toes, stay in the moment, and enjoy the ride.
8. The Stinky One
Bad breath, body odor, dirty clothes… you name it. Not much you can do other than offering a breath mint or spritz some Febreze around the stage.
9. Stage Hog
The stage hog is the one who literally pushes you out of your light. Politely speak up and mention that you need to be in your light in order to be seen. The director and the tech department will have your back on this one.
10. The Intellectual
Wastes all your rehearsal time sharing their brilliant insights into the script and their character’s inner thought process instead of running lines. Tell them you never knew how smart they were, then quickly change the topic to the ticking clock and your need to run the scene a few more times.
11. Meanie
The darn right mean-spirited kind. This scene partner breeds toxicity while putting you and your other cast mates down. Best to be the bigger person and try to find some common ground. The meanie needs love. If that fails, give yourself some self-love and call it a day.
12. Cootie Concerned
You have to do a kissing scene and your partner acts like you have cooties. Don’t take it personally, it can be a nerve-racking time and sometimes that makes people act weird. Break the ice with a joke and try to make them feel as comfortable as possible.
13. Space Cadet
The space cadet is off in la la land and drops all their cues. This can be great practice for you on thinking on your feet. Challenge yourself to connect with them more on-stage in order to keep them focused and on planet earth.
14. The Flake
This one cancels your rehearsal and reschedules it over and over again. Scream into your pillow then politely explain that your time is valuable too and please stick to a time and date.
Have a story about a crazy/smelly/bossy scene partner? Tell us in the comments below...
[post_title] => 14 Worst Scene Partners And How To Deal [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => 14-worst-scene-partners-and-how-to-deal [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2016-11-06 14:15:30 [post_modified_gmt] => 2016-11-06 18:15:30 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => http://theatrenerds.com/?p=4834 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 1 [filter] => raw ) [31] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 5299 [post_author] => 11 [post_date] => 2016-11-05 09:20:42 [post_date_gmt] => 2016-11-05 13:20:42 [post_content] => [viralQuiz id=20]You May Like: Quiz: Which Showtune Should You Sing With Your BFF?
[post_title] => Quiz: Which Dynamic Broadway Duo Are You And Your BFF? [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => which-broadway-duo-are-you-and-your-bff [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2018-10-27 11:27:35 [post_modified_gmt] => 2018-10-27 15:27:35 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => http://theatrenerds.com/?p=5299 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 1 [filter] => raw ) [32] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 5288 [post_author] => 1 [post_date] => 2016-11-03 09:44:07 [post_date_gmt] => 2016-11-03 13:44:07 [post_content] => Competition and audition season is quickly approaching! Have you found your monologue yet? If not, we have you covered. Below are 10 monologues (5 dramatic and 5 comedic) from love-sick female characters who have a bone to pick with love.A monologue from Your Swash is Unbuckled by Jeff Goode
(Comedic - Teens, 20s) This piece is from the shorter play, “Lewd Loves of a Lusty Laundress” within Your Swash is Unbuckled. Molly, a young laundress with two “manly” stepsisters and a “manly” stepmother, is repeatedly berated and teased by her step-family. She dreams of being whisked away by a handsome, strong, and/or wealthy man riding any kind of horse and going to any location other than where she currently is. In this scene, her step-sisters and step-mother have dropped more laundry on her and are forbidding her from going to the fair. The women leave, and as Molly goes through the laundry, she finds various shirts belonging to high-ranking individuals and fantasizes about who they belong to. Get the monologue here.A monologue from What the Well Dressed Girl is Wearing by Arthur M. Jolly
(Comedic - Teens) Teenaged Sandra has been helping her best friend choose an outfit for her date...with Jimmy, the guy Sandra yearns for. After Sandra’s friend asks her if she is mad about Jimmy, Sandra becomes upset, mildly at first. Sandra then begins to recount how she felt on several different occasions when her feelings for Jimmy weren’t returned...especially when she saw her friend and Jimmy dancing together at the spring formal… Get the monologue here.A monologue from Stay by David-Matthew Barnes
(Comedic - High School, 20s) Rindy, a young aspiring hairstylist who lives in a small Southern town, confides in her best friend Alison that she spent the night with her boyfriend, unbeknownst to her unstable mother. Rindy is terrified that her mother will find out about last night’s romantic rendezvous, and she can’t wait until he gets off work at 4 o’clock. Rindy is extroverted, unfiltered, and Southern. (*This monologue contains adult language and talk of sex.) Get the monologue here.The Reason I’m Single by Tara Meddaugh
(Comedic - High School, 20s) Kelly has been pressuring Rebecca to fess up: why doesn’t Rebecca have a boyfriend? Rebecca explains that, even though boys are always attracted to her and asking her out, she won’t accept any of their offers. The reason she doesn't have a boyfriend is because she loves Kelly. (*This monologue is a standalone piece and contains talk of sex.) Get the monologue here.Swap by Barbara Lhota
(Comedic - 20s) Kate and Nina’s apartment. Nina and Kate are roommates and good friends. Recently, Kate has begun dating Nina’s former boyfriend, Josh. Nina explains to Kate why she broke up with Josh in the first place...and now why she wants him back. (*This monologue is a standalone piece.) Get the monologue here.A monologue from The Princess of Caspia by Ricardo Soltero
(Dramatic - 20s, 30s - 40s, 50s - Older) Simon and Taylor are married, and Simon is having an affair with Rhonda. Taylor, trying to get the attention of her husband, has just broken Simon’s prized Dudamel baton in half. He tells her to pick up the baton off the floor where she left it. She refuses, and he keeps demanding that she act according to his orders. When she says, “Or else what?” he doesn’t respond. Here, Taylor responds and tells Simon that she is the only one who will fight for him like this. She loves him, but not the person who he is right now. Get the monologue here.A monologue from [Catherine (The Great] Dictionary Girl) by Alex Kump
(Dramatic - High School, 20s) Catherine talks about being in love with Patrick Yorland, the boy who rides her bus. She defends her love, which she knows probably comes off as childish, by describing what it’s like to love someone and want to take care of them. She is almost giddy in her affections, and her feelings consume her. Get the monologue here.A monologue from Pendragon County Ghosts by Don Nigro
(Dramatic - Teens, 20s) Jimmy is in love with Jessie, and has been trying to win her hand throughout his adolescence and early adulthood. In this monologue, she is trying to convince Jimmy that he should leave her; it is selfish for her to keep him so near when she knows in her heart of hearts that they will never be anything more than friends. She is attempting to push him away to protect his own feelings, yet does not want him to leave her side for her self-centered reasons. Get the monologue here.A monologue from House of Angels by Jennie S. Redling
(Dramatic - Teens, 20s) New York, 1914. Autumn appears to suffer from what has yet to be classified as an illness - manic depression. She is on the verge of a manic episode right before a tea party planned for her sister Helen’s fiancé, whom she secretly loves. Autumn inherited her illness from her father who killed himself, and with whom she felt a natural kinship she cannot share with her mother, Amelia, and her sister. When Autumn comes upon them discussing Amelia’s social ambitions, Helen lies and says they were just saying how sad that their father wouldn’t be present at Helen’s wedding. Autumn begins on a dreamy tirade and speaks of how their father would have presented Helen like Aphrodite to her new husband. Her speech is somewhat malicious. Get the monologue here.A Monologue from John Singer Sargent and Madame X by Rosary O’Neill
(Dramatic - 20s) Paris, 1882. Amelie, a beautiful model living in Paris, seduces John Singer Sargent to get married in New Orleans. She describes in vivid detail the journey she dreams of having with him, including the trip by boat to America, their arrival (to thunderous applause) in New Orleans, and their evenings spent whispering low to each other in the summer months. Get the monologue here.Post by Ashleigh Gardner from PerformerStuff.com [post_title] => 10 Female Monologues From Love-Sick Characters [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => 10-female-monologues-from-love-sick-characters [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2016-11-03 09:55:15 [post_modified_gmt] => 2016-11-03 13:55:15 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => http://theatrenerds.com/?p=5288 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 1 [filter] => raw ) [33] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 5263 [post_author] => 395 [post_date] => 2016-11-02 09:54:37 [post_date_gmt] => 2016-11-02 13:54:37 [post_content] => So, you didn’t get a part in the show you auditioned for. You’re understandably, disappointed, confused, overwhelmed and wondering what on earth you did wrong. There’s no question that you are absolutely justified in feeling upset and even angry when you don’t see your name up on the cast list. Even though it may feel like all your theatre-related hopes and dreams have been crushed for good, there are still plenty of ways you can get involved with the production even if you aren’t actually onstage. In fact, getting involved in the department and becoming a more visible presence can even boost your chances of getting a role the next round of auditions.
Tech
Even if you don’t have the slightest clue what the difference is between a phillips screwdriver and slot screwdriver and haven’t yielded a hammer since, well, never, there’s no time like the present! In addition to playing an integral role in creating the set pieces and scenery of the show, you’ll learn invaluable skills that you can carry with you for years to come. Plus, you’ll even get a little bit of time onstage — granted, you’ll be clad head-to-toe in black and be frantically shuffling around set pieces in the dark, but the thrill is still totally worth it.
Props
If the idea of spending a few months casually dangling from a wooden ladder is a bit too much for you, you may feel more comfortable pitching in with the props department. Being involved in props is great if you enjoy a challenge, as you’ll spend a lot of time on an unparallelled treasure hunt for items more random and ridiculous than you ever could have imagined. However, once you’ve collected all your items, be prepared to lose them constantly, as actors have a bad habit of playing around with props that are definitely not theirs.
Costumes
Okay, so maybe you didn’t get to unleash your inner diva under the warm glow of a spotlight. But that doesn’t mean you can’t show off your fashionista side by creating, collecting and fitting gorgeous costumes for the cast! Half the fun is spending an inordinate amount of time in the costume shed trying stuff on for funsies, and the other half is watching your creations come to life onstage as you nail down the perfect costume.
Lights
If you like the idea of being off in your own little world, lights could be the perfect way to get involved with the theatre department. Tucked away in your booth, you get a bird’s-eye view into the action below and are responsible for those moments that take the show from “meh” to “WOW.” Besides, the experience is great for any other event that needs someone who knows how to operate the lights — you’ll be in high demand.
Director’s Assistant
Sure, the title “Director’s Assistant” can make you sound a lot like Anne Hathaway’s character in “The Devil Wears Prada.” You might think you’re dooming yourself to weeks upon weeks of fetching lattes and takeout pizza, but there’s a lot more that goes into this job than just that. Directors have approximately a billion things on their mind at once, and you can play a big role in helping to alleviate some of those challenges and running errands that are vital to the production. Besides, what better way than to get some facetime with the person making next year’s casting decisions than being literally attached to their hip?
Front of House
If you want to get known by your director without spending months upon months hanging out backstage, working on a front-of-house crew could be the best job for you. Here, you’ll be responsible for ticket sales, prepping food that audience members can purchase at intermission and making programs for the show. Additional responsibilities include dancing in the lobby in a spot where the actors can see you from the stage so they start to crack up — or maybe that’s just what my best friends in high school did. Maybe don’t take my advice on that one.
Orchestra
So maybe your singing voice is a little more “Miranda Sings” than Laura Benanti, but you’ve been rocking out on the trumpet in band for years. Satisfy that urge to perform by auditioning to join the orchestra for the show. You get all the fun of showbiz without the months of rehearsals and still get to show off your talent in a spot where you’ll really shine.
Sound
Another option if you don’t make it into the cast is to join the sound crew. You’ll work with any live or recorded music and sound effects and manage the actors’ microphones. It’s a trying task, as everyone will definitely notice when backstage shenanigans are picked up by a rogue mic and projected to the entire audience. You’ll also get to play around with several sources of sound effects, and nothing is more fun than scrolling through a library of sounds to find the one that’s juuuuuust right for your show.
Stage Manager
Who run the world? Stage managers. Who run the world? Stage managers. But really, from the second rehearsals start to the second the curtain falls on closing night, the stage manager is an absolutely vital asset to the show running smoothly. If you get a thrill out of organization and thrive off high stakes, you might love sitting just offstage coordinating all the moving pieces of the show through a tiny headset. If you consider yourself a people-person, this could be the job for you, as you’ll have to manage actors, techies, props masters, costumes and front-of-house staff while working closely with the director. Don’t think you’re quite ready to hold the fate of the show in your hands? Offer to be an assistant stage manager to learn the ropes.
Though it’s no secret that it can be tough to watch a show come to life without you actually performing in it, you can still play your own special role behind the scenes. And who knows? Maybe you’ll stumble upon your secret passion along the way.
Have other ways to be involved in a show? Leave a reply below...
[post_title] => Cut From The Cast List? 9 Other Ways To Get Involved With A Show [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => cut-from-the-cast-list-9-other-ways-to-get-involved-with-a-show [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2016-11-02 09:54:37 [post_modified_gmt] => 2016-11-02 13:54:37 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => http://theatrenerds.com/?p=5263 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 2 [filter] => raw ) [34] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 5336 [post_author] => 12 [post_date] => 2016-10-31 11:00:19 [post_date_gmt] => 2016-10-31 15:00:19 [post_content] => It’s the spookiest time of year… oooOOOooo. So, to celebrate Theatre Nerd style, here are some real spooky stories of the stage.Emma Livry, the Ballerina Whose Tutu Caught Fire
As she steadied herself for her performance she made the fatal mistake of fluffing her tutu next to a gaslight
If you had the privilege of growing up a dancer, you’ve probably heard the cautionary tale of the ballerina who caught on fire during a performance. Details of the tale may have been fudged during the backstage gossip, but regardless, you knew you better not stand too close to the lights in your tutu otherwise you might have ended up like Emma Livry, the ballet prodigy of the romantic era, that is, until her untimely death.
The story begins with Emma waiting in the wings before her second act grand entrance. As she steadied herself for her performance she made the fatal mistake of fluffing her tutu next to a gaslight. Her skirt burst into flames sending Livry into a panic as she ran onto stage screaming and running around frantically in circles all while the audience and other dancers watched on in horror. Eventually, a fireman and another dancer helped to put out the flames but Emma’s burns were extensive. In an effort to be modest, she had clasped the fabric of her corset to her torso causing the corset to melt into her ribs. Additionally, she suffered burns on forty percent of her body including her waist, back, shoulders, thighs, and arms.
Emma spent the next eight months recuperating but ultimately died of sepsis upon the reopening of her wounds. Perhaps the most tragic part of Livry’s death was that it was all too avoidable. A fireproofing method for costumes was available and it was Livry herself who insisted against it due to the yellowness and stiff feel it gave the fabric. As if that weren’t bad enough, Ms. Livry didn’t even learn her lesson. During her recovery she remained opposed to fire-proof skirts: “ Yes, they are, as you say, less dangerous, but should I ever return to the stage, I would never think of wearing them- they are so ugly.”
Moliere- A Grave Performance and the Superstition of Wearing Green
Molière, died in the most dramatic of fashions- while he was on stage performing
France’s Greatest Playwright, Jean-Baptiste Poquelin, better known by his stage name, Molière, died in the most dramatic of fashions- while he was on stage performing. Molière had long been suffering from tuberculosis, a condition he was thought to have acquired during a prison stay due to debt. Tuberculosis or not, nothing was going to stop him from pursuing his artistic endeavors.
The tragic night was set during a royal performance before King Louis the 14th. Ironically, the performance was Le Malade imaginaire (The Imaginary Invalid, AKA, the Hypochondriac) it was during this performance that Molière began to cough and gasp uncontrollably until he collapsed and began to hemorrhage. The performance stalled but, briefly, and Molière insisted that the show go on. After bravely forging his way through the rest of the play, despite a secondary collapse, he finally made it home. Hours later, Molière passed away. Sadly, he was denied his last rites, which led to a rumor that his soul didn’t make it to heaven, and that his ghost is still lurking about. On the night of his death, Molière’s costume was green; offsetting the superstition that green is an unlucky color to wear on-stage.
Drury Lane Theatre and The Man in Grey
The Man in Grey is thought to be the ghost of a man who’d been stabbed to death
The Theatre Royal, Drury Lane, is the oldest operating theatre in London and is quite possibly the most haunted. Although there are many ghosts that have shown up at Drury Lane, it is the ghost referred to as The Man in Grey that is perhaps the most popular. The Man in Grey is thought to be the ghost of a man who’d been stabbed to death and whose remains were found in 1848 inside a passage of the theatre that had been walled up. The Man in Grey is said to dress like a nobleman of the late 18th century donned with a tricorne hat, dress jacket, cloak, riding boots, and sword. The ghost is said to lurk about between the fourth row and the royal box, which is near the spot in the wall where his remains were found.
Palais Garnier and the Truth behind the Phantom of the Opera
The chandelier in the theatre really did fall
You may already know that the Palais Garnier theatre in Paris is the setting for the famous novel and musical, Phantom of the Opera. What you may not know is that the writer, Gastón Leroux was a French journalist whose specialty was investigative journalism on real-life incidents; Leroux’s famous tale, is indeed full of many real-life truths. For instance, the lake of water under the theatre is real, it’s actually more of a water tank, but it’s a body of water under the theatre. Also, the chandelier in the theatre really did fall, not only that, it killed someone. Yikes! Creepier still, is the disfigured contractor that helped build the theatre and who lurked about wearing a mask to hide his unsettling appearance. The man, named Erik (yeah, really!) was born disfigured and abandoned by his family, joined the circus, and eventually became an architect, of sorts. He was even said to walk about wearing dress suits and a cloak. Erik also had his own personal box to watch the performances without being seen. The creepiest part is that he really did fall in love with a singer who performed at the Garnier and he kidnapped her! Luckily, she was found and fled Paris. Erik was so distraught he walled himself up into his apartment under the opera house and ultimately died of starvation. Some time later his suspected remains were found, wearing a gold ring that he was known to wear.
If these stories don’t give you a newfound respect for the spookiness of the theatre than I leave you with this bit of trivia: The ghost light in theatres generally serves a practical use- safety; however, it’s there for superstitious reasons too- to appease the ghosts that are thought to haunt each theatre. The light remains on stage long after the actors go home so that the ghosts may perform thus, preventing them from cursing the theatre. So leave those ghost lights on and have a Happy Halloween!!!
Have your own theater ghost story? Tell us in the comments below...
[post_title] => Theater Ghosts: 4 Spooky Stories Of The Stage [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => theater-ghosts-4-spooky-stories-of-the-stage [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2016-10-31 11:09:22 [post_modified_gmt] => 2016-10-31 15:09:22 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => http://theatrenerds.com/?p=5336 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 3 [filter] => raw ) [35] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 5267 [post_author] => 11 [post_date] => 2016-10-29 09:42:12 [post_date_gmt] => 2016-10-29 13:42:12 [post_content] => You can’t get more theatrical than the cult classic musical, The Rocky Horror Picture Show. While we think doing the Time Warp is appropriate any time of year, there’s something special about watching this flick around Halloween.Here are 13 freakily fantastic quotes to get us in the spooky spirit:
There’s a light, over at the Frankenstein place.” - Janet Weiss
Because you don’t get more Halloween-y than Frankenstein.
So, come up to the lab and see what's on the slab! - Frank N. Furter
This iconic line is kind of spooky.
I see you shiver with antici…pation! - Frank N. Furter
Is it Halloween yet?
It's astounding; time is fleeting; madness takes its toll. - Riff Raff
On a night filled with goblins and ghouls, this seems applicable.
Don't dream it, be it. - Frank N. Furter
Every theatre nerd’s motto when picking out a Halloween costume.
I've tasted blood and I want more! - Janet Weiss
Um, tis the season.
I'm just a sweet transvestite from transexual Transylvania. - Frank N. Furter
One of Rocky Horror’s most frighteningly fabulous moments.
And crawling, on the planet's face, some insects, called the human race. Lost in time, and lost in space…and meaning. - The Criminologist
This profound and bizarre quote is totally creepy crawly.
I ask for nothing, master. - Magenta And you shall receive it. In abundance! - Frank N. Furter
When you’re trick-or-treating and they only have banana laffy taffy left.
Chill me, thrill me, fulfill me. - Janet Weiss
When it’s time to binge that horror movie marathon.
I'll get you a Satanic mechanic. - Frank N. Furter
Probably the only time of year this is not weird to say (sort of).
I am a wild and untamed thing. - Frank N. Furter
Every theatre nerd always.
Let's do the Time Warp again. - Cast
When November 1st rolls around and you already can’t wait for next year’s Halloween!
Did we miss your favorite Rocky Horror quote? Leave it in the comments below...
[post_title] => 13 ‘Rocky Horror’ Quotes That Will Totally Get You In The Mood For Halloween [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => 13-rocky-horror-quotes-that-will-totally-get-you-in-the-mood-for-halloween [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2016-10-29 09:42:12 [post_modified_gmt] => 2016-10-29 13:42:12 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => http://theatrenerds.com/?p=5267 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) ) [post_count] => 36 [current_post] => -1 [before_loop] => 1 [in_the_loop] => [post] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 6117 [post_author] => 712 [post_date] => 2017-01-01 15:08:13 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-01-01 19:08:13 [post_content] => We all have people who inspire us, and as theatre nerds, those people tend to be Broadway stars. You know, the performers you dream about meeting but fear that if you do, you’ll collapse into a puddle of mush and stain their angelic feet. Well, if you’re dying to meet the greatest on the Great White Way, try one of the routes below. They’re the best (and least creepy) ways to go:1. Reach Out to Their Publicist or Manager
This is the most professional option and should be taken by those seeking to legitimately interview a Broadway star. If you’re not doing that, feel free to scroll down to another method. On occasion, publicists or managers will arrange meet and greets, but it’s important to do your research before you reach out.
After your incessant Google searching has produced the current contact information, it’s time for your pitch. Send an email to the star’s rep telling them why you want to speak with their client and why they should let you (you’re basically sharing your own credentials). Broadway folks are usually very generous about doing interviews (even if they’re informal and just for you), but you should remember they are busy people and be respectful of their time.
2. Stage-Door It Like a Pro
You’ve stood in the pouring rain, you’ve pushed through crowds and you’ve even jumped out of your seat halfway through the finale — all so you could reserve the best possible spot at the stage door and meet that star. But, have you tried “stage-dooring” (we’ve decided that’s a verb now) a show when you’re not actually seeing it?
The best way to ensure you’re standing right up against that metal gate and directly across the stage door is to get there while the show’s still going on. Pick a show, grab some Starbucks and wait outside the stage door before you know the show is going to get out. Even getting there 10 minutes before the curtain will make a huge difference. This will give you the optimal chance of meeting your favorite star (assuming they’re on that night)!
3. Attend a Live Talk Show
Sometimes that star you’d do anything to meet isn’t in a show (#depressing) or has moved on to TV and film roles (#ByeSuttonFoster), so there’s no way for a stage door meetup. Cheer up! Many of these stars still do press!
There are plenty of lesser-known talk shows that need to get butts in their studio seats. Some companies will even pay you to fill them (check out On Set Productions)! A great option in New York City is the BUILD Series, a live interview show produced by AOL and Verizon. Everyone from actors to athletes grace the BUILD stage, but you’re obviously more interested in the Broadway folks. And man, do they get a ton! To drop a few names, Lesli Margherita, Kristin Chenoweth, Christian Borle, Sutton Foster and Bernadette Peters have all been seen here.
As a bonus, BUILD’s resident Broadway moderator is Laura Heywood (Broadway Girl herself), who provides delicious tidbits, asks smart questions and speaks the voice of theatre nerds everywhere. The last portion of the taping is an audience Q&A, which means you can ask your favorite star that question that’s been burning in the back of your mind forever (unless it’s super weird or you’re shaking too hard to speak). The greatest part is that when the show is over, audience members have an opportunity to snap a quick picture with their favorite star (as time permits).
4. Go to a Concert
By the blessings of the theatre gods, most Broadway talent takes a spin starring in their own cabaret show or participating in a concert. Look out for your star at venues such as 54 Below or Birdland. These intimate spots give you the chance to watch your idol in action very close up. Your star is more likely to hang out and chat with fans after, too, considering these shows are extremely personal and it means a lot to them to have your support.
5. Social Media
https://twitter.com/LauraBenanti/status/485608584353312768?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw Social media obviously won’t necessarily let you come face-to-face with your favorite Broadway performer, but it can let you speak with them. Plus, lots of stars encourage you to reach out! Some will even go live on Facebook or hold contests on their Twitter page. Try commenting on their Facebook post or tweeting them a well-thought-out question. Social media is also a great tool for letting you know where that star is — not to say you should stalk them! For example, check out that person’s social pages before you wait by the stage door in the cold rain. Stars are known to write little apologies on Twitter if they can’t linger at the stage door after a show.6. Take a Master Class With Them
If you’re pounding the concrete pavement of New York City hoping to nab a role in any show that will have you, gaining insight from your favorite Broadway star is a must. The good news is that performers are some of the kindest souls out there, and they love giving back. From people at the height of their career to staples in Broadway ensembles, the members of the Broadway community are constantly instructing workshops for aspiring performers.
This is obviously not the option for people just looking for a quick selfie or hug, but if you’re hoping to make a connection and learn from your idol, there’s nothing better. Look into companies like RPP for master classes!
Has one of these methods worked for you? Do you have a great story about meeting your favorite Broadway performer? Let us know in the comments below...
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