Reaction: Nerdy
Subterms
WP_Query Object
(
[query] => Array
(
[paged] => 9
[reaction] => nerdy
)
[query_vars] => Array
(
[paged] => 9
[reaction] => nerdy
[error] =>
[m] =>
[p] => 0
[post_parent] =>
[subpost] =>
[subpost_id] =>
[attachment] =>
[attachment_id] => 0
[name] =>
[pagename] =>
[page_id] => 0
[second] =>
[minute] =>
[hour] =>
[day] => 0
[monthnum] => 0
[year] => 0
[w] => 0
[category_name] =>
[tag] =>
[cat] =>
[tag_id] =>
[author] =>
[author_name] =>
[feed] =>
[tb] =>
[meta_key] => _whp_hide_on_archive
[meta_value] =>
[preview] =>
[s] =>
[sentence] =>
[title] =>
[fields] => all
[menu_order] =>
[embed] =>
[category__in] => Array
(
)
[category__not_in] => Array
(
)
[category__and] => Array
(
)
[post__in] => Array
(
)
[post__not_in] => Array
(
)
[post_name__in] => Array
(
)
[tag__in] => Array
(
)
[tag__not_in] => Array
(
)
[tag__and] => Array
(
)
[tag_slug__in] => Array
(
)
[tag_slug__and] => Array
(
)
[post_parent__in] => Array
(
)
[post_parent__not_in] => Array
(
)
[author__in] => Array
(
)
[author__not_in] => Array
(
)
[search_columns] => Array
(
)
[post_type] => Array
(
[0] => post
[1] => snax_quiz
[2] => snax_poll
)
[orderby] => date
[order] => DESC
[meta_compare] => NOT EXISTS
[ignore_sticky_posts] =>
[suppress_filters] =>
[cache_results] => 1
[update_post_term_cache] => 1
[update_menu_item_cache] =>
[lazy_load_term_meta] => 1
[update_post_meta_cache] => 1
[posts_per_page] => 36
[nopaging] =>
[comments_per_page] => 40
[no_found_rows] =>
[taxonomy] => reaction
[term] => nerdy
[plugin_required_notice_slot_id] => Before content theme area
)
[tax_query] => WP_Tax_Query Object
(
[queries] => Array
(
[0] => Array
(
[taxonomy] => reaction
[terms] => Array
(
[0] => nerdy
)
[field] => slug
[operator] => IN
[include_children] => 1
)
)
[relation] => AND
[table_aliases:protected] => Array
(
[0] => wpsu_term_relationships
)
[queried_terms] => Array
(
[reaction] => Array
(
[terms] => Array
(
[0] => nerdy
)
[field] => slug
)
)
[primary_table] => wpsu_posts
[primary_id_column] => ID
)
[meta_query] => WP_Meta_Query Object
(
[queries] => Array
(
[0] => Array
(
[key] => _whp_hide_on_archive
[compare] => NOT EXISTS
)
[relation] => OR
)
[relation] => AND
[meta_table] => wpsu_postmeta
[meta_id_column] => post_id
[primary_table] => wpsu_posts
[primary_id_column] => ID
[table_aliases:protected] => Array
(
[0] => wpsu_postmeta
)
[clauses:protected] => Array
(
[wpsu_postmeta] => Array
(
[key] => _whp_hide_on_archive
[compare] => NOT EXISTS
[compare_key] => =
[alias] => wpsu_postmeta
[cast] => CHAR
)
)
[has_or_relation:protected] =>
)
[date_query] =>
[queried_object] => WP_Term Object
(
[term_id] => 560
[name] => Nerdy
[slug] => nerdy
[term_group] => 0
[term_taxonomy_id] => 560
[taxonomy] => reaction
[description] =>
[parent] => 0
[count] => 647
[filter] => raw
)
[queried_object_id] => 560
[request] => SELECT SQL_CALC_FOUND_ROWS wpsu_posts.ID
FROM wpsu_posts LEFT JOIN wpsu_term_relationships ON (wpsu_posts.ID = wpsu_term_relationships.object_id) LEFT JOIN wpsu_postmeta ON ( wpsu_posts.ID = wpsu_postmeta.post_id AND wpsu_postmeta.meta_key = '_whp_hide_on_archive' )
WHERE 1=1 AND (
wpsu_term_relationships.term_taxonomy_id IN (560)
) AND (
wpsu_postmeta.post_id IS NULL
) AND ((wpsu_posts.post_type = 'post' AND (wpsu_posts.post_status = 'publish' OR wpsu_posts.post_status = 'acf-disabled')) OR (wpsu_posts.post_type = 'snax_poll' AND (wpsu_posts.post_status = 'publish' OR wpsu_posts.post_status = 'acf-disabled')) OR (wpsu_posts.post_type = 'snax_quiz' AND (wpsu_posts.post_status = 'publish' OR wpsu_posts.post_status = 'acf-disabled')))
GROUP BY wpsu_posts.ID
ORDER BY wpsu_posts.post_date DESC
LIMIT 288, 36
[posts] => Array
(
[0] => WP_Post Object
(
[ID] => 12142
[post_author] => 440
[post_date] => 2017-10-25 09:35:55
[post_date_gmt] => 2017-10-25 13:35:55
[post_content] => My parents claim I came out of the womb singing and dancing. In my younger years, my siblings labeled me a drama queen. My friends both loved and hated me for making them be in every play I staged/video I directed/dance I choreographed.
It wasn’t until my mother enrolled me in a summer theatre camp that I finally found a tribe of people who were just like me. And it was nothing short of amazing.
Does any of this sound familiar?
Here are 16 signs that you should join a theatre group:
These days, it’s likely you’re in one of two camps: the camp that’s still recovering from the nonstop chorus of six-year-old girls singing “Let It Go” and the camp that continues to worship this Idina Menzel-led masterpiece. Either way, hits such as “The Lion King” have shown us that Disney goes big on Broadway, and this is one production you won’t want to miss.
What do you get when you combine Lea Salonga, Phillip Boykin, Alex Newell and a whole slew of other talented cast members? The Broadway production of “Once on This Island” that is sailing to Broadway this winter. The timely story chronicles two young lovers who fight against prejudice and all odds.
If you’re still obsessing over Steven Pasquale in “The Bridges of Madison County” (because who isn’t listening to “It All Fades Away” on repeat?), it’s time to rejoice! He is returning to the Broadway Stage in Lincoln Center Theater’s debut of “JUNK,” a play based on the life of Robert Merkin, “America’s Alchemist.” Check out this modern money thriller in November!
Jimmy Buffett + Broadway = this musical escape to Margaritaville. The show will include some of Buffett’s classic tunes, such as “Cheeseburger in Paradise” and “Volcano.” This musical is under the direction of Tony Award winner Christopher Ashley (“Come From Away,” “Memphis”). February is your chance to take a tropical vacation to the Marquis Theatre.
This season, fall doesn’t just bring pumpkin spice lattes — it also introduces a unique solo show playing at the Walter Kerr Theatre. The legendary Bruce Springsteen makes his Broadway debut in a production of incomparable musical storytelling. Is there anything more we can say?
With a book by Tina Fey and a stellar creative team behind the scenes, this musical adaptation of the iconic 2004 movie is sure to be SO fetch. The Broadway cast has yet to be announced, but previews will include Erika Henningsen as Cady and Taylor Louderman, Kate Rockwell and Ashley Park as The Plastics.
Anyone who isn’t a diehard fan of the TV show might be wondering what Bikini Bottom’s favorite sponge is doing in the middle of New York City. However, the musical’s pre-Broadway engagement garnered rave reviews and is sure to capture new audiences with its fun, feel-good story, spectacular music and memorable characters.
Acclaimed director Bartlett Sher has brought to life beautiful revivals of “South Pacific,” “The King and I” and other classic shows. In 2018, he’ll bring a new generation of theatre-goers the beloved Lerner and Loewe musical, “My Fair Lady.” If it’s a traditional yet larger-than-life night of theatre you’re looking for, make sure to book your tickets to this show.
The magic of the Wizarding World hits the Broadway stage this spring! J.K. Rowling’s latest installment, co-written by Jack Thorne and John Tiffany, follows the story of Harry and friends in their adult years as they take on their most difficult task yet: parenthood. Harry’s son, Albus, is the focus of the story, alongside a number of familiar faces from the original series.
As one of the best rom-coms in Hollywood history, Garry Marshall’s “Pretty Woman” was almost dedicated to make its way to the Broadway stage sooner or later. The new musical will star Samantha Barks (Eponine in the 2012 film version of “Les Misérables”) and Steve Kazee (“Once” on Broadway).
What Broadway musical are you most excited for? Share in the comments below!
[post_title] => 10 Broadway-Bound Shows Every Theatre Nerd Should Know About
[post_excerpt] =>
[post_status] => publish
[comment_status] => open
[ping_status] => open
[post_password] =>
[post_name] => 10-broadway-bound-shows-every-theatre-nerd-know
[to_ping] =>
[pinged] =>
[post_modified] => 2017-10-23 10:01:48
[post_modified_gmt] => 2017-10-23 14:01:48
[post_content_filtered] =>
[post_parent] => 0
[guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=12111
[menu_order] => 0
[post_type] => post
[post_mime_type] =>
[comment_count] => 2
[filter] => raw
)
[3] => WP_Post Object
(
[ID] => 12109
[post_author] => 736
[post_date] => 2017-10-20 09:40:59
[post_date_gmt] => 2017-10-20 13:40:59
[post_content] => We love to scour YouTube for some of the best theatre-related backstage insider videos, whether on Broadway or anywhere else. Check out some of our favorites below!
Not every musical movie is actually set on a stage, but this high-energy show is taped inside a theatre. It’s chock-full of amazing choreography and features original members of the Broadway cast. This Netflix watch is about as close your couch can get to sitting in a New York City theatre.
In similar fashion, we’re happy to report you can still stream this fairy tale of ogre-ish proportions. It stars Broadway names such as Brian d’Arcy James and Sutton Foster and ties in nicely with the creepy, crawly Halloween season. Be warned: This fantastical musical is more silly than spooky!
She really is a funny girl, that Belle! The live action film featuring Emma Watson and Dan Stevens is one of Netflix’s newest additions. While this latest version may differ from the theatrical productions of “Beauty and the Beast,” it still includes iconic tunes such as “Be Our Guest” and “Something There.” It’s the perfect movie musical when you need a little Disney magic.
While this Russian royal currently graces the Great White Way, she also reigns on Netflix in this beloved 1997 animated feature. Rom-com queen Meg Ryan lends her voice to Princess Anastasia, with actor John Cusack voicing cartoon heartthrob Dmitri. Pregame for your trip to the Broadhurst Theatre with this musical masterpiece.
The year is 1924, and the merry murderesses of Cook County Jail are fierce and fabulous — mostly because they’re shimmying to the “Cell Block Tango,” “Roxie” and “I Can’t Do It Alone.” Pop some popcorn and experience glitz and glamor in this screen adaptation.
Summer lovin’ happened so fast — and now it’s fall. However, you can still sing along to this Netflix stream if you’re in the mood for some greased lightning. Celebrate the back-to-school season with Danny, Sandy, Rizzo and the rest of the students from Rydell High.
Experience a modern tale of love and loss featuring Broadway’s own Jeremy Jordan and Hollywood starlet Anna Kendrick. “The Last Five Years” touches on relatable relationship issues and showcases heartfelt songs (penned by Jason Robert Brown”) that you’ll be humming all day long.
Autumn often means the return of homework, studying and midterms. Get your head in the game for school (or work) by relieving this melodious Disney Channel original. Go Wildcats!
It may only be October, but it won’t be long until the holiday season arrives. If you’re counting down the days until Christmas, why not tune into this Irving Berlin classic? There’s snow reason not to.
While I loved the music, it took me roughly three weeks to get “Jellicle Songs for Jellicle Cats” out of my head. Whether I was getting ready, at work or sleeping, I was entrapped by the catchy tune. Imagine singing it eight times a week for a year? Yep, I’d go crazy. That’s definitely some musical theatre overload.
If you didn’t already know, “Cats” is an incredibly dance-heavy show. From flips to turns to every trick in the book, it’s one of the most physical shows on Broadway. Yet somehow, each cat’s extensive makeup stays intact throughout the entire production. Literally, how? It must be some of that Broadway magic.
Mungojerrie and Rumpleteazer have one of my absolute favorite numbers in the show. And while the thieving duo are quite similar, they both have their quirks. The question on hand is, am I a Mungojerrie or a Rumpleteazer? Either way, nothing’s as fun as a mischievous evening in the junkyard.
Much like “Jellicle Songs for Jellicle Cats,” Grizabella’s eleven o’clock number, “Memory,” is one of the most memorable songs of the musical. While it’s a gorgeous tune, I once again found myself stuck with her shrieks for love running through my ears wherever I went. At this point, I’ve accepted my fate. I am turning into a “Cats” jukebox.
‘Nuff said.
At the end of the show, one of the cats is chosen to ascend to the Heaviside Layer to start its new life. Confusing? Yes. But the real question is, where exactly is the Heaviside Layer? Heaven? The North Pole? Who really knows?
Seriously, though. “Cats” is an incredibly demanding show. My knees were aching from just watching it. While all Broadway dancers have to take care of their bodies, the actors in “Cats” take a healthy living to a whole new level. Shoutout to them.
Please, Andrew Lloyd Webber. There’s truly nothing I want more.
Mara Jill Herman has worked Off-Broadway and has toured nationally in “Jesus Christ Superstar” and internationally through “Disney on Classic” in Japan and cruise ships. Here’s her advice for auditions:
“Take risks in auditions! It’s OK to gender-bend if the story you’re telling evokes your desired character. Changing the lyrics to a well-known song can also help display your comedic chops and land you a callback or ultimate booking. But, be respectful and know your audience!”
Christopher McGovern is an award-winning writer, librettist, composer, lyricist, pianist, musical director and arranger, CD producer and educator. His current credits include libretto/original songs and arrangements for the regional hits “Lizzie Borden,” “Backwards in High Heels,,” “Cagney” (which can currently be seen at the El Portal Theatre in Los Angeles) and “Dr. Radio, among others. He also did music and lyrics for the “Let the Memories Begin” castle projection show at U.S. Disney parks. He’s also done extensive concert work with many artists, including Roslyn Kind, Jason Graae, Liz Callaway, Karen Mason and Tony nominees Susan Egan, Christiane Noll, Charles Busch and Alison Fraser. Here’s his advice:
“Sing a selection appropriate to the score for which you are auditioning, and sing it in your own unique voice. Your storytelling and your vocal chops are both important. Be a musician, and don’t ‘skrelt’ at us. And, for god’s sake, never ‘snap’ the tempo to your accompanist — they might just happen to be the composer of the show.”
Seth Bisen-Hersh has completed the score for “Trivial Pursuits” (music), “Meaningless Sex” (music/lyrics), “The Spickner Spin” (music/co-lyrics), “More to Love” (music/lyrics), “Stanley’s Party” (music/lyrics) and “Love Quirks” (music/lyrics). He has played for Broadway auditions and hundreds of Off-Broadway, LORT, summer stock, cruise line, reading, workshop and festival auditions. Furthermore, he has been musically directing and accompanying cabarets, readings and showcases in the city since 2003. Here’s what he had to say about auditions:
“Don’t be a character — be yourself. Choose a likeable, optimistic, upbeat comic (unless you’re going in for something truly unfunny) number. I know it’s hard, but the reasons for casting people are so arbitrary and subjective, the best thing to do is go in, have as much fun as possible and then forget you had an audition.”
Rebecca Larkin has been seen on Broadway in “South Pacific” and “Avenue Q,” as well as in TV, film, regional theatre and cruise ships. She also coaches musical theatre performers. Here’s her advice:
“Find a 16-bar cut of what you do best (your favorite style, something that makes people laugh, shows off your money notes, breaks their hearts, whatever makes you light up because you love doing it) and try to use it as often as possible. They want to see you be great at something more than they need the absolute perfect song. Of course, don’t bring legit to a ‘Hamilton’ audition, but within reason, many styles do overlap each other.
“Practice your audition piece in the shoes and outfit you plan on wearing. Different heels can change where you put your weight. Figuring out you inadvertently suck in your stomach in a certain dress is better to find out at home rather than in the room when you suddenly run out of air mid-note. The fewer surprises in there, the better!”
Chris Giordano’s national tour credits include “Broadway Christmas Wonderland” and “The Berenstain Bears Live!” and he has many regional performing credits as well. As a teaching artist and a member of the Educational Theatre Association, he has taught theatre classes with Inside Broadway, AMDA’s High School Summer Conservatory, Kidville, Brooklyn Acting Lab, Camp Broadway, the Boys and Girls Club, the Putney School Summer Program in Vermont and many public schools. He is the current managing director of Theatre Now New York and produced Sound Bites 4.0, a festival of 10-minute musicals at the Signature Theatre. His advice?
“Make sure [you make] at least one bold choice, whether [it’s] the song you sing or acting beat.”
Creating original content is probably the easiest and cheapest way to get your talent into the universe on your own terms. You have complete control over showcasing your best and most marketable performing skills that can get you hired.
The following are some examples of performance-related content you can create and post online:
Volunteer to be part of friends’ content, or collaborate with other like-minded individuals to make some. Not only does this get your talents into the world, but there is even more of a chance more people will see it, since the others involved will also share across their social media platforms.
Web series, music videos and dance routines are all great examples of how groups of people can work together to create online content. Again, remember the options and ideas are limitless, so get collaborating, then get sharing!
Reinventing others’ popular content that already has a good following can create an immediate and excited audience for your social media posts.
Musically speaking, mashups, remixes, covers and acoustic versions of well-known material are great examples of ways to recreate popular content. You can also add your own spin to well-known characters and public figures. Once you’ve created your work, post on as many social media platforms you can.
If you do decide to go this route, be sure to be aware of copyright. You may need to get permission or the rights to recreate someone else’s work. Do your research before you post.
Not all your created content or performance-related material can be placed on social media. Instagram alone has a 60-second video time limit. When you can’t create content for a specific social media site, share your website links and/or photos of it instead. When posting photos, make sure you talk a bit about the project and link back to the original site in the comments section or another place where you can write a blurb.
In this fast-paced world, most go to social media first to get a quick, all-encompassing view of you and your talents. By remembering to post links to websites that showcase your talents, your social media will serve as a gateway to entice friends, family, fans and followers on your feeds to click on the links or look elsewhere on the web for more insight into your performing prowess.
Facebook and Instagram, as well as several other social media sites, now offer the opportunity to go live. You can stream whatever content you want by just using the lens on your phone in real time with the press of a button. Whether you go live in your daily routine, rehearsal sessions or stage performances, your viewers will love the inside look at your performing life and keep tuning in for more. An added plus is that many of these live feeds allow you to interact with your followers, creating a positive buzz for you and your talents. You certainly can’t go wrong as long as you keep your livestream positive and performance-related.
As I grew up, this translated itself more tangibly in my choice of crushes both onstage and offstage. Developing a crush on someone I was acting with in a show was a pretty regular occurrence. For further proof, check out my article, “ What I Learned From My First Showmance.”
The problem was, much like my Mirkwood fantasy man, I found myself attracted to the character and not the person behind it. It’s so easy to fall for a created character, especially if the actor portrays him or her in a relatable way that strikes a chord with the audience. Character lust can easily be confused for a real crush, and those of us onstage are even more susceptible to it.
Worried this might be happening to you? Here are some ways to tell if your crush is real or fictional:
Real Crush: Their actual name.
Character Lust: Their character’s name. That was an easy one.
Real Crush: Going to the movies, dinner, bowling or other real-world activities.
Character Lust: Hanging out at the theatre. You are both there at the same time. It’s practically a date.
Real Crush: You know their favorite color and birthday.
Character Lust: Their costume is blue, so that must be their favorite color right?
Real Crush: You get jealous when you hear someone else is into them.
Character Lust: You get jealous when they act romantically onstage with their written love interest (who is married in real life).
Real Crush: You imagine both of you together.
Character Lust: You imagine your characters together.
Real Crush: You get butterflies every time they flirt with you.
Character Lust: You get butterflies every time they say their lines.
Real Crush: You like seeing them in different roles.
Character Lust: You can’t imagine them playing anyone else.
via GIPHY
Real Crush: They have their flaws, but you like them anyway.
Character Lust: They are perfect, and no one else can compare!
Real Crush: They look good in anything.
Character Lust: They should just wear that costume. All the time. So hot.
The good news for you is that there is a cure to help you get over your fictional love. You are crushing on that character because they hold the qualities of what you are looking for in a real-life love. Ask yourself what it is you like about that character and what attracts you to them. Make a list, and use that to help you find someone with those attributes. My attraction to elven hero Legolas can be in part traced back to my love for adventure and a man who isn’t afraid to be daring. And having beautiful hair doesn’t hurt, either.
The key here is not to be afraid of your feelings. Embrace them for what they are, and use them to improve your actual love life. Who knows? You might even find a love story worthy of the stage.
In addition to a bead worker, other dressers are employed to do daywork in order to prepare and check the costumes before a performance. They ensure they look as pristine as they did on opening night.
Ironing, steaming and minor repairs are all allowed. The costumes are meticulously checked for any damage and are repaired onsite. Anyone who wants to be employed as a dayworker needs to have at least basic sewing skills and be able to sew small rips and buttons, among other things.
A stitcher is also onsite during daywork and sometimes during showtimes. This is a dresser who is a whiz with a sewing machine. It’s also helpful if this person can do pattern-making, use a serger and operate other applicable instruments. Stitchers will repair more difficult and larger rips and holes in costumes. They may also do alterations to costumes if a new actor or swing/understudy is going in the show.
During daywork, a dresser who knows how to repair and keep shoes looking like new is also employed. Shoes take a beating from everyday wear and tear and hardcore dancing, so the shoe person can give shoes a fresh coat of paint/polish, check for repairs, replace or fix any rubber or hardware and/or take the shoes to a local cobbler for a more involved fix.
These tracks usually require extra-special care, and star dressers will sometimes act as a special assistant, guest greeter and more in addition to helping carry out the costume changes with his or her actress. Many times, a star of a show will take their star dresser with them from show to show, since they are familiar with their work and have a good rapport. If you are meticulous and a people-person, this is a great job for you!
Theatre is a collaborative art form, and it takes a cast of thousands onstage and offstage working together as a team to make a show go off without a hitch.
Life Lesson: Be sure to include teamwork in your real life, whether it’s in another career endeavor, playing a sport, relationships, family or even achieving life goals. There’s no need to go it alone. So much can be achieved with a little help from a friend, colleague or mentor.
If you can’t problem-solve, you certainly can’t work backstage. You must not be afraid to fix an issue quickly when sets, costumes and props break or something else goes amiss.
Life Lesson: Bring this type of problem-solving into your real life. Take initiative to act quickly to fix things when they go wrong, whether it be at home, at school or at a job.
Who says you can’t do two things at once? How about three or four? How about doing a quick change with an actor while presetting another change for a different actor and safety-pinning a rip in a third actor’s costume? Think this hasn’t happened? Think again!
Life Lesson: Multitasking not just backstage can help you achieve goals faster, use your time more wisely and get so many things done. Even your parents will be impressed!
Trusting your instincts while you are problem-solving backstage is imperative when you only have 30 seconds for a quick change or a very short blackout. The show won’t stop to fix a mishap!
Life Lesson: Remembering to listen to your inner voice will always be the right choice, whether you’re choosing the right audition song, picking your future college/university or aiming to make a big life decision.
Doing theatre means working closely with everyone onstage and backstage for long hours. Creating a positive working environment is a must and is the direct result of everyone being nice to one another despite individual idiosyncrasies.
Life Lesson: Remembering to be nice to everyone no matter your environment will bring you many friends, supportive teachers, mentors and colleagues who will help guide and support you throughout your life journey.
Looking at the other guy hooking up a microphone while you’re handling a costume emergency may make you think he has the easiest job in the world. Think again! What if that mic goes out or is positioned in such a way that the sound doesn’t work correctly?
Life Lesson: No one’s job is easy. Reminding yourself that everyone has challenges and obstacles to overcome can help you when you’re struggling. You are not alone.
Theatre is exhausting, and rest is imperative to ensure you are at your best so the show can go off smoothly.
Life Lesson: If you don’t get enough sleep before that big test, upcoming audition or even a vacation, you won’t have as much fun or be able to fully enjoy the experience or carry it out with vigor. Take your time to treat yourself kindly and get some zzz’s to recharge your battery.
1. Avoid picking a song from the show for which you are auditioning. Choose something that showcases your vocals and acting ability.
2. Come prepared with everything they’ve asked for and more. Having a second song ready can be helpful, just in case.
3. Wear something that makes you feel comfortable and confident. It will help steady your nerves.
4. If there is a dance audition, make sure you have proper attire and don’t hide in the back. They can’t cast you if they can’t see you.
5. Don’t let the talent of the other auditionees psyche you out. You never know what the creative team is looking for, and it might be something you have!
1 Show up on time. This cannot be stressed enough. You are a part of a team. Being late without an exceptional reason gives the impression you feel your time is more valuable than others’.
2. If you are sick or can’t make it, be sure to contact your director. They don’t need to waste rehearsal time tracking you down. If you are an integral part of that session’s rehearsal, they might use the advance notice to alter the rehearsal and work on something else instead.
3. When you miss a rehearsal, take the initiative to find out what you missed and get caught up before the next rehearsal.
4. Always have a pencil on hand. You will need to jot down stage directions and notes as they happen. Don’t leave it until the end of rehearsal, or you may forget things. The creative team will be annoyed if they have to tell you a second time.
5. Whether you’re playing the leading role or a mute tree, give it 100 percent. Every person who is part of the show is integral to the finished product. If you want to earn larger roles, show the creative team you can handle more by being the best at whatever you’re given and doing it with a smile.
6. There will be regulars and already established friend groups. Don’t let it intimidate you. If it does, find other newbies in the cast and start there. Then, get to know everyone as you work on scenes together. Just being friendly and saying hello goes a long way.
7. Another way to bond with members of the production and get involved is to help out with backstage tasks when you have downtime. Making props, helping build or strike the set, marking up the floor or even just tidying up the stage or rehearsal space are all good options.
8. Every production has drama going on backstage and onstage. Try to stay out of it. If you find yourself involved, diffuse the situation to the best of your ability. Keeping the group as cohesive as possible will ensure the best performance onstage.
9. In some companies or groups, you will be required to provide your costumes. Establish that as early as you can and start hunting for those perfect pieces. Don’t leave it to the last minute, or you may end up disappointed.
10. If you are responsible for getting your own costumes, be sure the director approves of all your choices. Don’t wait for them to see the costumes onstage during dress rehearsal. If they tell you what you chose isn’t going to work, you’ll be left scrambling at the last minute.
11. You will be expected to practice and review on your time. Showing up to a rehearsal unprepared is unfair to your fellow castmates and the creative team. Block out a small pocket of time a few times a week to go over what you’ve learned.
12. Ask questions if you are confused or need something repeated. Don’t be embarrassed — someone else may have the same question and is also afraid to speak up. Giving a poor performance will be far more embarrassing, so get clarification if you need it.
13. If you have a conflict, speak to that person directly, if you can, or take it to the director. Avoid spreading gossip at all costs. The worst thing you can do is talk to someone else in the cast. The more people involved, the bigger the problem gets.
14. Don’t take constructive criticism of your performance personally. A lot of first-timers will get upset if the director or choreographer corrects them or asks them to change what they’re doing. They are just trying to make the show the best it can be, and their approach may not be the same as yours. Keep your chin up, listen to what they are saying and take everything in stride.
15. Make sure you warm up before every rehearsal. There may not always be time to warm up as a group, so leave yourself a few moments to stretch your limbs and vocal chords.
16. Keep the diva moments to a minimum. Respectfully voicing your ideas to members of the creative time is fine, but it’s ultimately up to them to decide how the show is put on.
17. It is good to try new things and grow as an artist, but if you are really uncomfortable with something, speak to the director about it. Most are very accommodating and will do their best to rework it.
18. Be patient. There will be a fair bit of standing around and waiting for others. Keeping a positive attitude will help maintain a pleasant and creative environment.
1. Tech week is grueling. Go into it with that in mind, and you will avoid an unpleasant surprise.
2. Be patient. There are a lot of elements at play, and everyone is tired and on edge. Emotions run very high during this period, and a little bit of patience can go a long way toward avoiding a major incident.
3. Stay positive. Tech week rehearsals are notorious for having everything go wrong that can, but 99 percent of the time, it all turns out okay in the end.
4. Stay focused. There will be a lot going on, and this is when injuries can happen. Adding set pieces, costumes, props, lighting and sound can cause a lot of confusion. There will be people everywhere. Be aware of your surroundings, and don’t get distracted by what others are doing.
5. Do everything you can to stay healthy. The stress, rehearsals and physical demands will take their toll on you. Be preventative by doing things that keep you relaxed, drinking lots of water, resting when you can, taking vitamins and staying warm.
6. Do not schedule anything social during this week. You will not make it to that. Tech week is very demanding, and adding commitments will just add to your stress.
7. Keep your area of the dressing room as neat and organized as you can. Quick changes are a recipe for lost items, so try to have designated places for your things. A storage container for makeup and hair items, a bag for shoes, a bag for laundry, your own hangers and clothing bag for costumes and a general bag or suitcase to store it all in can be beneficial.
8. Make sure you label all your things with your name or initials. That way, if they are misplaced, you’re more likely to recover them.
9. Bring your own small mirror. There are never enough mirrors for everyone, and you’ll need one.
10. Always have water on hand. It gets extremely warm onstage and in dressing rooms, and the last thing you want is to pass out or get sick from dehydration.
11. If you can, do as much preparation at home before you go to the theatre. It will help you stay relaxed among the backstage frenzy.
1. Invite your friends and family as soon as you know the date of the show. Booking people ahead of time will ensure you have some friendly faces in the crowd to give you that extra energy during the performance.
2. Promote your show as much as you can. Tell everyone you know and advertise it on your social media. The more people there are in seats, the better it is for the group.
3. If something goes wrong or you mess up, don’t let it break your focus. Treat it like it was intentional and keep going. It’s unlikely the audience will even realize or remember.
4. Give every performance as much energy as opening night. Most people in the crowd will be seeing the show for the first time and deserve the best performance possible.
5. Keep track of your cues. It’s easy to get distracted backstage, and there’s nothing worse than an angry stage manager tracking you down.
6. Treat your backstage crew with respect. They are the unsung heroes of every show, work just as hard as the cast onstage and are often unrecognized for their contributions. Be sure to thank them when you see them around.
7. Don’t eat in your costume. If your stage manager finds out, you’ll live to regret it.
8. Use the bathroom before the show starts and at intermission. It sounds silly, but it can mess up your focus if you need to go. Plus, trying to go to the restroom with your costume on can be really tough.
9. Nerves are completely normal and expected. Try to channel that energy into each performance. Keep yourself from freaking out by taking everything one step at a time, one scene at a time. Breaking it down into smaller chunks will make it less frightening and more manageable.
10. Don’t freak out if the audience doesn’t laugh or react when they are expected to. Some audiences are more reactive than others. It doesn’t mean they didn’t find it funny or enjoyable — they might just be more reserved theatergoers.
11. When it’s all over, be sure to thank everyone involved. Appreciation is always remembered.
It’s easy to get caught up in the chaos of community theatre, but before you know it, the show will close its last performance. Whether it’s your first show or your 20th, try to enjoy each moment and each experience for what it is: pure magic.
The Golden Age (anything from 1940 to the 1960s) is a musical era you must have in your book. Ideally, you’d have at least one Rodgers and Hammerstein song in there.
For this genre, think of the tunes made famous by Frank Sinatra. Jessie Mueller once told the story of how she auditioned for “On a Clear Day You Can See Forever” and sang, “It Might as Well Be Spring” from “State Fair.” They immediately asked her if she had anything more jazzy to fit the style of the show. She didn’t have anything, so she asked the accompanist to speed up her original song and sang the Rodgers and Hammerstein classic as if she were Ella Fitzgerald. She got the job.
The moral of the story is to make sure you have a jazz standard in your book — or be prepared to do some major musical tweaking on the spot if you don’t.
Most people say to never sing Sondheim, but if you can handle his crazy rhythms and phrasings at the drop of a hat, you’ll be sure to impress the casting team.
This is what you need for shows like “Rent,” “Rock of Ages,” “American Idiot,” “Spring Awakening” and “Jesus Christ Superstar.”
I call this the Jason Robert Brown-style song. Look for standalone cabaret songs, such as those from Goldrich and Heisler or Kerrigan and Lowdermilk.
With more recording artists such as Sara Bareilles and Carole King dipping their toes into Broadway, it’s good to have a Top 40 song in your book.
Disney has such a strong presence on Broadway that if you are a working musical theatre actor, you probably already have done or will do a Disney production one day. Examples include “Mary Poppins,” “Newsies,” “Aladdin,” “The Little Mermaid” and “Beauty and the Beast.”
This is just a list to start you out with getting more variety in your book. There are many other types of songs that would be great to have for an audition. Also, keep in mind that while your book should vary in musical genre, you should also have a good mix of up-tempo and ballad songs. Best of luck with your future auditions!
Nili Bassman has been seen on Broadway in “Curtains,” “Never Gonna Dance” and “Chicago.” Here’s her advice:
“The most important thing to bring into a room at a Broadway dance audition (or any audition, for that matter) is you. One-of-a-kind, beautiful, flawed you. Directors, choreographers and music directors want to see individuals with points of views — dancers with an awareness of who they are and access to all of that beautiful uniqueness. Steps can be refined and drilled during rehearsals, but presence, passion, creativity and personality cannot be taught. You’ve studied technique your entire life. Trust that. The audition room is the place to leave class behind and dance from your soul. All dancers are actors. We tell stories with our bodies. So, use the choreography presented to you to tell a story. Bring your life experience to the dance and make it your own. Have fun! Think of every audition as an opportunity to perform and leave your heart and soul and joy in the room. That is why we dance. That is why others are moved by dance. And yes, warm up, eat a snack and bring water and extra shoes!”
Correy West has been seen on Broadway in “Nice Work If You Can Get It” and “South Pacific.”
Here’s his advice:
“I think the most important thing in a dance audition is to know your strengths and use them to your advantage. I used to spend so much time getting intimidated by the guys who were the most flexible or the ones who could do the most turns, but at the end of the day, there is only one you. If that shines through and you feel like you couldn’t have done anything else towards getting the part when you leave the room, it was a success!”
Justin Boccitto is a New York City performer, teacher, director, choreographer and producer. His work has been seen Off-Broadway, regionally and beyond. He is also the executive director of The Group Theatre Too and the creator of Choreographer’s Canvas. And, if you like what he has to say, you can take a dance class from him at Broadway Dance Center.
Here’s his advice:
“Being on the other side of the table, I find the following things extremely important at dance calls:
Stephanie Bissonnette is an accomplished New York City dancer who has now joined the company of “Mean Girls” as it heads toward Broadway and its first regional premiere at the National Theatre.
Here’s her advice:
“I would say my biggest advice would be to just be yourself. Often the final decision is made because of a certain minor detail. Don’t take anything personally. Just keep getting up and heading to those auditions every day. You never know which one will be the one to skyrocket your career.”
Jeffry Denman is an accoladed Broadway performer (“White Christmas,” “How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying,” “Cats,” “Dream”), director, choreographer, playwright, author and founder of the Denman Theatre and Dance Company. Here’s his great advice about reading for a role once you’ve made it past the dance stage:
“If you’re reading sides, get off book as much as you can. If you’ve just been given the sides, don’t worry, but if you’ve had them overnight, get off book. It is the single most effective way to get me to consider you. If I’m watching you simply look into papers, I have no idea how you are as an actor.”
What is your best advice for dance auditions? Let us know in the comments below...
Three chairs are set up in a row at the front. Pick one person to sit on the “park bench,” aka the row of chairs. They can pretend to read the newspaper, watch the birds, etc., but they must remain seated on the bench at all times. Select a second person to be the pedestrian. Their job is to embody a character and try to get the park bench occupant to laugh or leave the bench. They are not allowed any physical contact.
If the park bench occupant laughs or leaves the bench, the pedestrian takes their place. They become the park bench occupant and the game starts over. If the pedestrian is able to get the park bench occupant to laugh or leave the bench after an allotted amount of time, a new pedestrian is selected.
Choose one person to be the party host and ask them to leave the room briefly. Choose three people to be party guests, and have the rest of the students suggest characters for each of them (such as man on a rollercoaster, Justin Bieber, girl who has lost her pet snake, etc.). The party host comes back into the room and returns to the front.
The party starts, and the first guest enters the party. They converse with the host while in character for one minute before the next guest enters the party to converse with the host. Stagger each guest until all three guests are at the party conversing with the host and each other. The guest must stay in character at all times. At the end of five minutes, the host must guess the character for each guest.
This can be played in a small group or large group. The teacher starts the story with one sentence (i.e., “Once upon a time, there was a princess who dreamed of being an astronaut”). Moving clockwise around the circle, each student adds one word to the story. The circle is repeated as many times as the teacher deems necessary until they feel the story is finished.
Divide the group into teams of four to six people and have each team choose a spot around the room. The teacher calls out a scene (such as Spiderman at the scene of a bank robbery, a birthday party gone wrong or a television awards show) and then counts down from 10. Teams have 10 seconds to organize a tableau and then freeze. The teacher then goes around and views each tableau before choosing a winner for that round. The winning team receives a point. Every student from the team must participate in the tableau or the team will be disqualified from the round.
Tip: Remind the students about the use of levels and facial expressions at the start of the game.
Choose two to four students to start onstage and give them a scene to start (such as lifeguards rescuing someone from drowning). The teacher calls, “Action!” and the students begin acting out the given scene. At any point, the teacher calls “Freeze!” and the whole scene must freeze. The teacher selects one new volunteer, and they can tap any of the people onstage to go sit down and the assume that actor’s position.
When the teacher calls “Action!” again, the person who just tapped in must start a whole new scene based on the positions the remaining actors ended in. The other actors will need to improvise and join in the new scene. It must be completely different to the scene that was happening before. Every time the teacher calls “Freeze!” new students replace the previous ones and begin a new scene.
The teacher selects one person to be a gravekeeper, and they stand off to the side. The other students lie on their backs on the ground with their eyes open. They must stay completely still, with a straight face. The gravekeeper’s job is to go around and try to make each person laugh or speak using only acting. They are not allowed to touch the person on the ground. Anyone they succeed at making laugh is alive again and joins the gravekeeper in going around and trying to make the other students laugh or speak.
This is a great game for helping your students learn stage directions. This game follows the usual rules of “Simon Says.” Students should only do what the caller says if they say “Simon says.” If they do not put “Simon says” in front of the instruction and the student does it anyway, they are eliminated. The teacher calls out stage directions, such as downstage right or center. Students can only move to those places on the stage if the teacher says “Simon says” in front of it. Any students who move there otherwise are eliminated. Try to keep the calls coming quickly to keep the game interesting.
The teacher selects one student to sit in a chair and face away from the rest of the group. Ask the student in the chair to close their eyes. Select three students from the remaining group and have each one take a turn standing behind the chair and saying, “Greetings, your majesty” in whatever voice they like. Once all three students have gone, the student in the chair must guess who each one was.
Choose two to three actors to be onstage. Choose a director for each actor. The directors sit at the back, and the actors play out the scene at the front. The teacher assigns the actors a scene and the first direction, and the scene begins. The actors can only do what their directors say. The directors each take a turn narrating the scene, and the actors must act it out. Whenever the teacher sees fit, they can call “Cut!” and new actors and directors are selected.
Playing drama games is a great informal benchmark for where students are at in both comfort and range. Having them engage in games continuously over the length of the course allows you to see visible progress as students learn, become more comfortable and grow their abilities. Encourage everyone to participate and watch as they flourish and have fun!
Ben Platt in 'Dear Evan Hansen'[/caption]
“What I would encourage in terms of best practices is that it’s totally great to take a picture of the procedium and playbill,” he said. “Another great thing is to leave a review. After you see something, review the piece yourself, go to their Facebook page and share your thoughts, especially when they’re positive.”
When it comes to producers’ and marketers’ use of social media, Howell said the most effective method to getting people to share their experiences of the show is to have a step and repeat in the lobby of the theatre. This way, everyone who comes to the show can take a picture and post it online.
Social media is undeniably a great tool to be used before or after a show. However, surfing social media and the internet during a performance has recently become far too regular. Rest assured, theatre fans, this isn’t just a Broadway problem, but a global one.
“I think we will see a global problem of attention spans and people disconnecting from the real world around them to engage with the virtual world around them, but I don’t think it’s limited to theatre,” Howell said. “We see our union and industry fighting against it, saying that live theatre needs to be live.”
However, Howell hopes that embracing social media within limits will actually bring great changes to the Great White Way.
“What I think will happen with Broadway and theatre, I hope, is that we’ll be able to share our art form with audiences and more people through digital with the expectation that if you want the premium live experience, you buy a ticket,” he said. “I would like to see more digital integration where we get to be a part of the show. Word-of-mouth marketing is the No. 1 form of marketing because it doesn’t cost you anything, and people trust their family and friends’ recommendations. I think producers are hurting themselves by not encouraging social media. I just think that we have to write the rules and teach etiquette.”
What about onstage? Could social media be incorporated more frequently into shows themselves, like “Hit List” from the hit NBC show “Smash?” (Yes, it’s a hit in my heart.)
Howell warns that it may remove people from the story, since taking a second look at their phone may cause audiences to then surf the web or check email. However, in the right context, with limitations, it could potentially work.
Aside from within the theatres themselves, Howell has also seen how social media has started to have an impact on casting decisions.
“I see it being involved in casting decisions, but I think people make the mistake of looking at 10,000 followers versus the actual engagement rate,” he said. “So someone with a hundred followers and a higher engagement could actually bring more results to the ticket process than someone with a bunch of spambots that they bought from Russia.”
Frankly, it’s 2017. Technology and social media are bound to start to find their place within theatre, whether onstage or offstage. While this does present some potential negatives to the experience of live theatre we’ve come to know and love, with the right rules and guidance, it could have a profound effect on the art form.
[post_title] => What Role Does Social Media Play In The Theatre?
[post_excerpt] =>
[post_status] => publish
[comment_status] => open
[ping_status] => open
[post_password] =>
[post_name] => role-social-media-play-theatre
[to_ping] =>
[pinged] =>
[post_modified] => 2017-09-13 17:51:26
[post_modified_gmt] => 2017-09-13 21:51:26
[post_content_filtered] =>
[post_parent] => 0
[guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=11358
[menu_order] => 0
[post_type] => post
[post_mime_type] =>
[comment_count] => 2
[filter] => raw
)
[25] => WP_Post Object
(
[ID] => 11348
[post_author] => 714
[post_date] => 2017-09-12 09:33:03
[post_date_gmt] => 2017-09-12 13:33:03
[post_content] => It seems that everyone in theatre has a side gig, side hustle, side hobby or day job. What if your non-theatre experiences actual could help your career in the theatre? Wouldn’t that be a perfect world? If you look for unconventional ways to further your career, your next job might be just around the corner. Here are some ways that your time outside the theatre can be time well spent:
It’s vital for every working actor to have a website. Most actor websites have headshots, resumes, dance reels, press articles and other information that help you sell your brand as an actor.
Having quality photography skills is always helpful in the theatre. You gain knowledge about what looks best on camera, so you don’t make rookie mistakes with your own headshots. Plus, you can earn extra cash on the side by taking other actors’ headshots or productions’ publicity photos.
It’s not just about being flexible and strong, although that is a fantastic result of doing yoga. Most importantly, yoga trains you to have control of your breath. Keeping focused on your breathing and diaphragm coordination can do wonders to help you sing an aria or deliver a lengthy monologue. Learning how to listen to your body and how it moves is very important for actors. Remember, your body is an instrument. And speaking of instruments...
Having the ability to play a few musical instruments will only help your chances of getting cast. From the musicals “Once” to “Bandstand,” you never know when you will have to play a musically talented character. Gaining knowledge about music will only help you in your musical theatre endeavors. Plus, you can get a lot of side gigs as an accompanist for your fellow actors or yourself.
If you find the makeup aisle dangerous for your wallet, you might be able to put that passion to use. Experiment with different types of stage makeup, and one day, you could find yourself getting a job as the makeup artist for a show. With so many fantasy shows such as “Shrek” currently playing in regional and community theaters across the country, the theatre needs people with a knack for makeup.
Eating well is very important to keeping yourself in top shape as an actor. Know how to eat the best foods to power through your two-show day. Study what makes you feel good and what keeps your voice healthy and strong. This knowledge will give your acting career more longevity if you remember to always take care of yourself. Make being healthy part of the job!
With the costume by Freddy Wittop, Dolly Levi (originally played by Carol Channing) descends the staircase into Harmonica Gardens in a red sequin gown, turning heads and winning the hearts of everyone she comes into contact with.
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=iVh9zjf0Tww
This sailor suit, designed by Irene Sharaff and worn by Barbra Streisand in both the musical and movie versions of “Funny Girl,” has been repeated time and again in many productions of this beloved musical. It has also become a standard piece for Streisand’s appearances and an iconic representation of both the star and the show on TV and film. Just look at Lea Michele’s ensemble when she won the part of playing Fanny Brice in “Glee.”
Cassie’s red dress, originally designed by Theoni V. Aldredge and worn by Donna McKechnie in the original Broadway production of “A Chorus Line,” speaks volumes about her character’s fiery spirit and her need to stand out and be noticed. This dress has been recreated over and over in all productions since.
Watch this dress move and Cassie (Charlotte d’Amboise) sing and dance her heart out in “The Music and the Mirror” from the Broadway revival of the show.
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=tOWh6LSHa48
Credit 2012 JIM LEE PHOTO[/caption]
Originally appearing as a comic strip in the late 19th century, “Annie” became a musical when Charles Strouse, Martin Charnin and Thomas Meehan collaborated on it in 1976. Aldredge took the inspiration from the comic in creating Annie’s finale red dress, catapulting the look to girls everywhere.
This dress became iconic when Dorothy is whisked away to Oz and it magically goes from black and white to living color. Like “Annie” and “A Chorus Line,” a production of this show can’t be done without recreating this look. The original designer, Adrian Adolph Greenberg took his design inspiration from the book series itself. Check out the original covers of the series to see the resemblance.
Speaking of “The Wizard of Oz,” the Wicked Witch of the West lives on eight shows a week in “Wicked” on Broadway, as well as in other productions around the world. Her green skin is just as iconic as the black witch’s outfit — and, not to mention, an ordeal to put on for any actress who plays this character.
Check out this video, which gives you an inside look at actress Rachel Tucker becoming Elphaba.
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=01GGW2QRU1c
Anna’s gown, originally designed by Sharaff for the movie version of “The King and I” has become iconic — not for its color, but for the fullness of the skirt. The skirt itself literally takes on a life of its own as Anna is being waltzed around the stage during “Shall We Dance?”
Here is a great video of Anna (Kelli O’Hara) being quick-changed into the dress at the Tony Awards by some fabulous dressers.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G4OcqWxsKL0
Dress Designer Credit: Mela Hoyt-Heydon for 3-D Theatrical’s 2016 production of Beauty and the Beast.[/caption]
Belle’s yellow gown became infamous in the animated version of this beloved musical. Of course, whenever you attend a production, you’ll certainly find yourself surrounded by many little girls dressed up like this princess in a replica of this gown.
Here is a great video about the creation of Belle’s costumes for the most recent movie version, starring Emma Watson.
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=M95NsqegWIA
We all know and love the movie and musical hit, Little Shop of Horrors, but what we don't all know is whether we're sweet Audrey or sweet-talking Audrey II. Take this quiz to find out!
[post_title] => Quiz: Are You Audrey Or Audrey II?
[post_excerpt] =>
[post_status] => publish
[comment_status] => closed
[ping_status] => closed
[post_password] =>
[post_name] => quiz-audrey-audrey-ii
[to_ping] =>
[pinged] =>
[post_modified] => 2019-05-22 18:52:54
[post_modified_gmt] => 2019-05-22 22:52:54
[post_content_filtered] =>
[post_parent] => 0
[guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?post_type=snax_quiz&p=11183
[menu_order] => 0
[post_type] => snax_quiz
[post_mime_type] =>
[comment_count] => 0
[filter] => raw
)
[28] => WP_Post Object
(
[ID] => 11272
[post_author] => 440
[post_date] => 2017-09-08 12:55:47
[post_date_gmt] => 2017-09-08 16:55:47
[post_content] => There is a time in everyone’s life when they can look back and see all the moments that led them to become the person they are today. I am no exception. I can identify exactly what led me to teaching, what led me to become a writer, and the stepping stones to my lifelong vocation as a theatre lover. All the signs were there, even in childhood. No one could tell you better than the people who watched me blossom into the theatre nerd I am today: my family.
2. Family friends came to visit once, and I coerced them into being a part of an elaborate production of the musical numbers from “Pocahontas,” staged in my basement. Our costumes included a dress I made from a burlap sack and an unfortunate selection of vests I owned (give me a break, it was the ‘90s). A baby carriage doubled as the canoe in “Just Around the Riverbend,” and my sister was pushed around in it while using a broom as a paddle. The others held up a blue bedsheet that acted as the river while also hiding the wheels on the stroller. Needless to say, the show opened and closed the same afternoon.
3. My first crush was Lt. Joe Cable in the movie-musical “South Pacific.” We spent a month one summer visiting my father’s aunt in Prince Edward Island. She lived in the tiniest town, where the video store doubled as the gas station and convenience store. They had five kid-friendly rentals available: four Rodgers and Hammerstein movie musicals and a Shirley Temple flick. I watched a lot of “South Pacific” that summer.
4. I saw “Wicked” for the first time as a teenager when the touring cast came to Toronto. I loved the show so much that I bought the CD soundtrack afterward and became obsessed. After discovering iron-on transfer sheets for the printer, I bought a plain tote bag and ironed a print-out of the musical poster on the front of it. I got strange looks from the cool kids when I carried it to class, but to the theatre and music kids, my bag was hot. I walked into those arts classes with my bag like Tyra Banks on a catwalk. Yeah, you know it.
5. My family owned a camcorder, and I loved filming music videos and fake reality shows with my friends. They were works of art, with synchronized dancing, poorly chosen hairstyles involving far too many butterfly clips, baggy neon wind pants and crop tops we created by folding up the bottoms of our tank tops and tucking them underneath, just like Britney. I still have some of those videos and recently joked about showing them at my theatre friend’s wedding. She threatened to kill me if I ever showed them in public.
6. My parents put me and my older sister in charge of babysitting my little brother one Saturday afternoon while they were out. My brother ended up running into a wall and getting a big bump on his head because we stole his stuffed animal and made him chase us around the house to get it back. My parents were livid. We were supposed to be the older, responsible sisters. Most kids would be grounded or have their television privileges revoked, but we had our theatre tickets taken away. A friend had given our family free tickets to see “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” the following weekend. My parents gave the tickets away to my aunt, and I was crushed. We did get to see the musical a few months later, but I always remembered how I would have preferred to lose the television.
7. I essentially pestered one of my middle school teachers into directing a school play. Extracurricular activities in the arts were hard to come by where I grew up. To my surprise, I did not get the lead role. Gutted, I withdrew from the production entirely in true dramatic fashion. When my mother finally convinced me quitting was not the mature thing to do, I crawled back with my tail between my legs and took the only job that was still available, leading the choir. So, what I imagined to be my big moment as a star was not quite as I pictured. My theatrical debut was not even onstage, but rather on the floor to the left of it.
8. In my youth, I had a habit of dramatic, huffy exits followed by the slamming of my bedroom door whenever I had a disagreement with anyone in my family. After one particular set of fits, my mother had my father remove my bedroom door from the hinges and put it in the basement. Shrewd move, lady, but I could play that game. I proceeded to sing at the top of my lungs for the entire house to enjoy. This went on for about a week before the door was returned.
9. For two years, I forced my mother to let me attend a local theatre camp for three weeks in the summer. My second summer, they were putting on a production of “Alice in Wonderland,” and I was hell-bent on playing Alice. Much to my disappointment, the part went to a boy, and the character was renamed “Alex.” Instead, I got the part of the Queen of Hearts, who only appears in the second act. She is supposed to end up with a cake getting smashed in her face, which our director decided would be fake. However, I wanted to Daniel Day Lewis the shit out of that part and insisted the week before the show that the cake be real for each production. The director eventually gave in. The cake was smashed, I acted my heart out and soaked up the cheers and laughter as icing and cake ran down my face. I worked at that camp every summer after for seven years.
These are only a few of the charming anecdotes my family loves to regale my prospective mates with at holiday dinners. Jokes on them, though, because I expect these stories will provide excellent material for my future memoir, which will obviously skyrocket me to fame and later become a major motion picture. Does anyone know what Anna Kendrick’s schedule looks like in the future? I’ll have her people call my people.
What are your students’ current interests, musical preferences and hobbies? Use these as a guide to pinpoint musicals that fall along a similar genre. You want students to be excited about performing in a musical because they can find some relation to it, whether it’s based on their love of pop music (with a show such as “Rent”), their love of movies (with shows such as “Hairspray,” “Footloose” and “Legally Blonde”) or even their love of Disney (with musicals such as “High School Musical,” “The Little Mermaid” and “Beauty and the Beast”).
Choosing a musical that corresponds with the subject matter currently being studied will not only enhance your students’ interest and knowledge on the subject itself, but it will give many students a reason to see the show as well. Whether it involves American history (with shows such as “The Civil War,” “Ragtime” and “1776”), world history (with musicals such as “Cabaret” and “Evita”) or current reading lists (with shows such as “The Secret Garden,” “Yours, Anne” and “Peter Pan”), it will certainly make the subject matter something the students will remember for a lifetime.
Keep in mind your available acting talent. For example, do you have more boys than girls or vice versa? Do you have great singers and/or those with dance training? Try to choose musicals that meet their strengths and highlights the students you know want to participate.
Great school musicals for those with skilled singing and/or dancing talents are “Thoroughly Modern Millie,” “Grease” and “A Chorus Line.” On the other hand, musicals such as “How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying” and “The Wizard of Oz” are great choices for musicals that can involve students with less-trained singing voices but still have plenty of meaty acting roles.
There are also several all-male and all-female musicals to choose from, should you need to consider those. Great choices are “Nunsense,” “Nunsense A-Men” (male version) and “Beehive the Musical.”
It’s imperative to keep your budget in mind when choosing the appropriate school musical, as costs add up quickly. Don’t fret. Whether your budget is large or small, there is an appropriate show for you. For bigger budgets, choose more spectacle-based musicals such as “Annie,” “Oliver” and “Hello, Dolly!” For smaller budgets, look at shows such as “The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee” and “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown,” which require less focus on big sets and elaborate costumes that can quickly eat money.
Keep in mind your behind-the-scenes talent to ensure you have the staff backstage that is capable of making the musical look amazing from a technical standpoint. If you have parents and students who are well-versed and skilled in making costumes, props and scenery and you have the budget to support it, don’t hesitate to mount more spectacle-based musicals such as “Mary Poppins,” “Into the Woods” and “Sweet Charity.”
However, if you do not, veer toward more character-driven musicals that require minimal sets and props. You could pick a modern show so any costumes and scenery can be purchased at your local thrift shop or secondhand store and/or borrowed.
Another recommendation for those with less-skilled technical staff is to choose shows that lend themselves to black-box spaces. This way, even if you have a bare stage, the show will still work and look appropriate for the bare space. Great musical choices for this would be “Chicago,” “Man of La Mancha” and “Pippin.”
Remember to keep your audience base in mind. In order to keep the musical theatre program alive, you need to continue to have your audience come in to support it. Because of this, it’s important to consider whether your show is something they’d enjoy and can bring friends and family to. If you are unsure, try to do an audience poll of several options on the school social media page. Great audience-pleasers are “The Sound of Music,” “The Pajama Game” and “Shrek.”
Does your school have an orchestra or band that can play the music? Will you hire musicians? Or, if you will use tracks, do you have a good and reliable sound system and someone to run the board? It’s important to take this facet into consideration to make sure you are serving the score of the show and making the music enjoyable for the audience and easy to follow for the performers.
A sung-through musical such as “Les Misérables” would be a great choice if you’re planning to use tracks, as long as you have an experienced sound person to run the soundboard and keep up with the cues. Shows with lavish scores such as “Oklahoma!” and “Fiddler on the Roof” work well to perform with the school orchestra and band.
There are also plenty of musicals you can do with just a piano or small trio of musicians. “My Way,” “Songs from a New World” and “Snoopy” are good options.
Performing in a musical is a way for students to learn and grow, not only as performers, but also as individuals and team players — whether it be singing in a new register, learning how to do basic simple tap steps or choreography, harmonizing or even learning to take cues and work together in an ensemble-based show. Don’t hesitate to pick a musical that students can take something from to use in the future. There are some especially great ensemble-based shows such as “Seussical” and “Little Women” where everyone has an equal share of stage time and there is an intense amount of ensemble work.
Are you working in a theatre/auditorium setting? Is it a proscenium, thrust or in the round? Are you working in a black box? Outside? In a classroom? Keep the location of where you’ll be presenting the musical in mind when making your decision. Having a small musical take place in a large auditorium may not work as well as doing a bigger, more lavish musical. And, if you are doing a musical in a classroom, pick something that lends itself to a smaller, more intimate space with minimal sets and costumes. Great examples of musicals for any type of space are “Cinderella” and “Oklahoma!” Small musicals that work well in an intimate atmosphere are “The Fantasticks” and “Godspell.”
Take a tip from Julie Andrews and “start at the very beginning, a very good place to start.” Even if you are teaching an upper-year class, it’s always a good idea to spend some time at the outset reviewing the basics. Think about the building blocks of being an actor, like voice, character, reading a script and moving about the stage, then go from there.
I always start with warming up and the importance of preparing the body and voice, as I find most students don’t realize it’s crucial to warm up before performing, even just for class.
Positive reinforcement goes a long way. Always begin with the positives and ensure you find something to praise your students for each time. Keeping students encouraged will help them be open to feedback. When giving constructive criticism, stick to only one or two corrections at a time — otherwise, you risk overwhelming your recipients.
Where do your students excel? Find their strength and help them develop it. Find ways for them to share their talents in the group setting, outside of acting. If they are also a talented artist, have them design sets or create posters for performances. If they are very organized, let them arrange the setup of the backstage area. The more they feel like they have a special and important place in the class, the more they will want to be there. No one is good at everything, and there is always room to stretch and grow beyond their comfort zone. However, confidence to do that will come from first finding where they shine.
Each class or week should have its own focus. Throwing too many concepts at students at once will lead to confusion. Mastering a skill requires it to be taught, reviewed and then practiced. Students can then move forward and continue building on those skills. Taking things slowly and having a theme for each class will ensure maximum absorption and avoid frustration for both you and your students.
It is important to have your students challenge themselves, but remember, each student is different. For some, just getting up to speak in front of a small group of peers in their class is going to be a huge challenge. Others might be looking to challenge themselves by moving into a professional audition process. Have students create individualized goals you can help them work toward. Encouraging self-evaluation with progress is a positive life skill that is worth reinforcing.
A common fear you will encounter among students is the fear of failing, especially in front of others. Not every student who comes to drama class will be outgoing and eager. Stage fright will pop up from time to time. Encourage bravery and consistently applaud each effort, whether it was successful or not. For some, just standing in front of others is a huge step. Let them know you are not expecting perfection, just their personal best. Keep the room a positive and safe space for creativity and failure to coincide together as tools for learning.
When teaching beginners, go slow when giving each instruction. Don’t assume they will know basics, particularly with terminology, such as stage right and stage left. Be sure to stop intermittently to see if anyone has questions.
Getting up yourself and giving an example of the skill you are trying to teach will not only make you more relatable to your students, but it will also provide them with some confidence seeing you go in front of everyone and demonstrate the skill first.
Again, the fear of failure may see some students hanging back and avoiding participation. For the first few classes, avoid large group presentations while they are still getting to know one another and you. Allowing the students to work in and present to smaller groups at the start will give them an opportunity to get comfortable with the class and boost their confidence. You can then build toward the large group setting with less resistance.
Try to give opportunities to learn from more than just yourself. Bring in a speaker or group, take them to a performance, participate in a workshop, show a performance DVD or organize a backstage tour. Seeing the arts in action will make it more applicable to your students.
There is more to drama than just being onstage. You may have a budding stage manager in your class, but they don’t know what that job is or what it entails. Give your students the opportunity to learn about as many of the different facets of working in the theatre as you can.
In the words of East High’s enigmatic educator Ms. Darbus, “The stage can be a wonderful partner in the process of self-discovery.” So, whether you teach in a school, a community theatre or an extracurricular program, be encouraged knowing the work you do to create opportunities in the arts for students of all ages is an important and life-changing endeavor. To all those teaching arts out there, we salute you.
If you can look at yourself in a mirror while wearing a crazy wig and false teeth and start laughing, you’ll learn to do the same when you have a bad hair day or find a zit.
In the same vein, the costumes and makeup are often the best part of playing a character role. Who can deny loving a neon tuxedo or particularly well-articulated stage makeup? Plus, they make for great backstage selfies.
Maybe your dialogue doesn’t drive the plot as much as another character’s does, but it’ll certainly make the audience laugh. You might not get that stage kiss you’ve been pining for, but you can certainly insist that Courtneys everywhere take their breaks.
More often than not, the lines and lyrics written for character roles can make us laugh through read-throughs and even rehearsals. The discipline required to know how to make others laugh without laughing yourself is difficult to attain but so valuable once mastered.
It isn’t uncommon for a character role to require a specific skill, such as tap dancing, an accent or even slight-of-hand magic. The great thing is that if you land a role and don’t yet have those skills, you’ll have time to learn them and perfect them before opening night. Then, you can add them to your resume!
I’ll admit, I might be biased, but character roles have some of the best songs in the musical theatre canon. “Guys and Dolls” wouldn’t be nearly as fun without “Bushel and a Peck,” and “The Music Man” would be missing something special if “Shipoopi!” was cut.
There are so many different kinds of character roles to take on. Perhaps you’ll play a bumbling con artist one week and an eccentric pirate the next. While every role is different, some archetypes require a more specific type than others. Embrace your flexibility and jump around between ages, accents and looks.
A great woman — Maleficent, played by Kristin Chenoweth — once sang, “Don’t you wanna be evil like me?” The villain can be the most exciting role in any show because of how heightened their emotions often are and how much draw they have over the audience. It’s always fun to embrace your dark side, even if it’s only for a few performances.
Not every character roles requires stunt work, but the ones that do are a lot of fun. Every once in awhile, a character gets in a huge fight with another character and is thrown from a roof, or a group dance number will require you to learn how to do a back flip. These skills will dazzle audiences and come in handy later as well.
You don’t see this in every show, but sometimes, the comedic lead also gets to be the romantic lead. Think of Winnifred the Woebegone in “Once Upon a Mattress” or Leo Bloom in “The Producers.” They get some of the funniest lines in their respective shows and a ton of “aww” moments as well.
Opportunities for character actors are everywhere. Don’t shy away if you want to audition to play a zany senior citizen, a talking animal, a monster who lives under the bed or yes, even someone’s funny friend.
[post_title] => 10 Benefits Of Being A Character Actor
[post_excerpt] =>
[post_status] => publish
[comment_status] => open
[ping_status] => open
[post_password] =>
[post_name] => 10-benefits-character-actor
[to_ping] =>
[pinged] =>
[post_modified] => 2017-09-02 12:18:07
[post_modified_gmt] => 2017-09-02 16:18:07
[post_content_filtered] =>
[post_parent] => 0
[guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=11174
[menu_order] => 0
[post_type] => post
[post_mime_type] =>
[comment_count] => 2
[filter] => raw
)
[33] => WP_Post Object
(
[ID] => 11138
[post_author] => 736
[post_date] => 2017-08-28 11:19:33
[post_date_gmt] => 2017-08-28 15:19:33
[post_content] => If you’re not feeling the urge to take a bite out of the Big Apple, you can still have a great theatre career in many other cities within the United States. The regional market is thriving, so if you’re considering laying down your hat and stepping into the footlights, check out these five cities:
Philadelphia, the city of brotherly love and the home of Rocky, has a huge theatre scene for professionals and amateurs alike. It is also the home of the iconic Walnut Street Theatre, the oldest continually operating theatre in America. And, with a slew of Actors Equity Association houses and community theatres, dinner theatres, a fringe festival and the prestigious Barrymore Awards held once a year to honor those in this bustling theatre community, it’s certainly a market where artists thrive.
As another plus, according to a recent article in the Philly Voice, it’s also known as a city where most acting gigs pay, even for amateur/community theatre jobs.In addition, the Philadelphia tourism market provides terrific opportunities for actors. There’s great potential to have a supplementary gig as a living history actor or tour guide.
As an added bonus, there is easily accessible public transportation to practically everywhere within the city limits, which means you don’t need to invest in a car. The city itself is even within a few hours to New York City, so you could visit if you wanted.
Learn more about the Philly theatre scene on Theatre Philadelphia.
This city has five Tony Award-winning regional houses, including Steppenwolf and the Goodman, along with smaller surrounding suburban areas with theatre companies creating new and experimental works and reviving old favorites. Here, an artist can certainly find his or her niche. Chicago is a market where many shows at the prestigious venues transfer to Broadway, so you’d even have the possibility of moving with a show born here to New York City.
While you will have to deal with the cold Chicago winters, you can up your comedy skills by taking classes at Second City or delve into the TV/film realm, since many episodes and films shoot here.
Learn more about the Chicago Theatre Scene on Chicago Plays.
While this city is home to the nation’s capitol, it’s also home to many theatrical opportunities and amazing venues. The prestigious Kennedy Center, Folger Theatre (the first Elizabethan-style theatre built in North America) and Ford’s Theatre (the site of President Lincoln’s assassination) are just a few spots you can check out if you want to be a serious theatre actor. In addition, there is a huge regional scene, experimental theatre, touring companies, fringe festivals and more.
Learn more about what the theatre in this city has to offer on DC Theatre Scene.
Boston has a thriving theatre scene that can make any performer feel artistically fulfilled. Current top-notch theatres include the Huntington Theatre Company and the American Repertory Theatre in nearby Cambridge. “Waitress,” “Natasha, Pierre and the Great COmet of 1812” and “Finding Neverland” were presented at the A.R.T. before they arrived on Broadway.
Boston has a rich history, a driveable distance to New York City, accoladed performing arts universities and Ivy League institutions, as well as a bustling city and quiet surrounding suburbs. With all of this, it could make this the right actor market for you!
Learn more about the Boston theatre scene at Stage Source.
Minneapolis has the second most theatre seats per capita in the nation and ranks as the fifth most “creatively vital” city in the country, according to a 2015 report by the Western States Arts Foundation. This makes it a great place to pursue a career as a performer.
The Guthrie is one of the most esteemed theatres in this city, but there are also many other theatres, as well as theatre festivals and many other types of performance opportunities. Minneapolis is a place to certainly consider making your mark.
You can find more information about this theatre scene from Minnesota Playlist.
Susan Holloway Scott’s latest read speaks for itself. ‘I, ELIZA HAMILTON’ chronicles the life and impact of Alexander Hamilton’s leading lady. While the ten-dollar Found Father may be the centerpiece of our favorite musical, it’s no doubt that Eliza is a pretty epic heroine. This book sheds light on her complex marriage to George Washington’s right-hand man, as well as her extraordinary work in shaping our country.
There are two sides to every story. While A.Ham is certainly a key player in Scott’s book, his tale is told through the eyes of his closest companion. The Hamiltons’ relationship wasn’t exactly smooth sailing (remember that Reynolds Pamphlet?) and we’re down to see what Eliza had to say about all of this.
Knowing every lyric to “Guns and Ships” is all good and fun, but it’s even better when we’re reminded that the Hamiltons were real people who helped create the world we live in today. Though this novel is historical fiction -- because even Susan Holloway Scott wasn’t in the room where it happened -- Eliza’s story is based on true events and showcases a powerful example of a real-life, fierce boss lady.
If marathoning “Downton Abbey” as you steep a steamy pot of tea isn’t your thing, don’t let the term “historical fiction” scare you off. It’s a genre that often gets a bad rap for being boring and kind of like a textbook from history class, but ‘I, ELIZA HAMILTON’ falls under this umbrella because it’s a fictionalized re-telling of a real human’s life. Sort of like that one musical Lin-Manuel Miranda wrote…
She has written books about a number of royals and historical figures: The Countess of Dorchester and King James II, The Dutchess of Portsmouth and King Charles II, Sarah Churchill and more. You can browse her books HERE.
You’re probably still obsessing over the entire soundtrack, but in case you needed reason to listen to “Burn” on repeat...
Hitting bookshelves September 26, this read makes its arrival just in time for pumpkin spice lattes and all things autumn. Whether you tackled all of the books on your summer reading list or not, you won’t want to throw away your shot to read Mrs. Hamilton’s inspiring story.
Click HERE to pre-order your copy of ‘I, ELIZA HAMILTON’ now!
[post_title] => 7 Reasons 'I, ELIZA HAMILTON' Needs To Be On Your Reading List
[post_excerpt] =>
[post_status] => publish
[comment_status] => open
[ping_status] => open
[post_password] =>
[post_name] => 7-reasons-eliza-hamilton-needs-reading-list
[to_ping] =>
[pinged] =>
[post_modified] => 2017-08-24 15:00:15
[post_modified_gmt] => 2017-08-24 19:00:15
[post_content_filtered] =>
[post_parent] => 0
[guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=11120
[menu_order] => 0
[post_type] => post
[post_mime_type] =>
[comment_count] => 1
[filter] => raw
)
)
[post_count] => 36
[current_post] => -1
[before_loop] => 1
[in_the_loop] =>
[post] => WP_Post Object
(
[ID] => 12142
[post_author] => 440
[post_date] => 2017-10-25 09:35:55
[post_date_gmt] => 2017-10-25 13:35:55
[post_content] => My parents claim I came out of the womb singing and dancing. In my younger years, my siblings labeled me a drama queen. My friends both loved and hated me for making them be in every play I staged/video I directed/dance I choreographed.
It wasn’t until my mother enrolled me in a summer theatre camp that I finally found a tribe of people who were just like me. And it was nothing short of amazing.
Does any of this sound familiar?
Here are 16 signs that you should join a theatre group:
1. You long for the day in your life when a spontaneous musical number will break out.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8tJoIaXZ0rw2. Halloween is your favorite day of the year because you have an excuse to wear a costume and no one will think you’re a weirdo.
via GIPHY3. You couldn’t name the Founding Fathers for your high school history exam, but you can now.
via GIPHY4. You perform a one-person show every day while in the shower.
via GIPHY5. Most of your playlists consist of Broadway musical cast albums.
6. You have an awards acceptance speech that you’ve perfected over the years at the ready. You know, just in case.
7. Whenever you’re in a restaurant, you wish someone would jump onto a table and start a rousing rendition of “La Vie Boheme.”
8. You save and scrape together enough money to see every show that comes through where you live.
9. You always project your voice. How else will you be heard? Your friends constantly ask you why you’re shouting.
10. When someone says a line that happens to appear in the lyrics of a musical song, you feel the need to sing the next line — even if they have no clue what you’re talking about.
11. You love wearing makeup. Especially false eyelashes or heavy foundation.
12. Your wardrobe consists of black clothing and costumes.
13. Strangers often stare at you because you are singing loudly in your car. This does not embarrass you.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nck6BZga7TQ14. You create elaborate backstories in your head about strangers, friends and colleagues.
15. The musical episodes of TV shows are always your favorite. How can you go wrong with singing?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1DuR-P2r6Gk16. You know all of the words to “Seasons of Love” and “Defying Gravity.”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ntY5sL08vu8 From summer theatre camps and high school drama groups to college theatre productions and community theatre groups, there is an organization for every age. Or, if there isn’t one in your area, you could even consider starting a theatre group of your own! Don’t be afraid to seek out like-minded lovers of the stage. After all, you never know when a spontaneous musical number could break out. It’s essential to have the right people by your side and ready with jazz hands at a moment’s notice.Thought of a few signs that we missed? Let us know in the comments below...
[post_title] => 16 Signs You Should Join A Theatre Group [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => signs-you-should-join-a-theatre-group [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2017-10-26 10:14:34 [post_modified_gmt] => 2017-10-26 14:14:34 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=12142 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 2 [filter] => raw ) [1] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 11959 [post_author] => 1121 [post_date] => 2017-10-23 23:21:24 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-10-24 03:21:24 [post_content] => [post_title] => 10 Things That Every Thespian Can Relate To [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => closed [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => 10-things-every-thespian-can-relate [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2017-10-23 23:21:24 [post_modified_gmt] => 2017-10-24 03:21:24 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=11959 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [2] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 12111 [post_author] => 1 [post_date] => 2017-10-23 10:01:48 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-10-23 14:01:48 [post_content] => In case you’re planning a trip to the Big Apple, we’ve compiled Broadway’s latest and greatest. These newly minted shows range from revivals to original productions, and we’re stoked for each and every one.Here are 10 musicals coming to the Great White Way that you have to put in your calendar:
1. ‘Frozen’ (February 2018)
These days, it’s likely you’re in one of two camps: the camp that’s still recovering from the nonstop chorus of six-year-old girls singing “Let It Go” and the camp that continues to worship this Idina Menzel-led masterpiece. Either way, hits such as “The Lion King” have shown us that Disney goes big on Broadway, and this is one production you won’t want to miss.
2. ‘Once on This Island’ (December 2017)
What do you get when you combine Lea Salonga, Phillip Boykin, Alex Newell and a whole slew of other talented cast members? The Broadway production of “Once on This Island” that is sailing to Broadway this winter. The timely story chronicles two young lovers who fight against prejudice and all odds.
3. ‘JUNK’ (November 2017)
If you’re still obsessing over Steven Pasquale in “The Bridges of Madison County” (because who isn’t listening to “It All Fades Away” on repeat?), it’s time to rejoice! He is returning to the Broadway Stage in Lincoln Center Theater’s debut of “JUNK,” a play based on the life of Robert Merkin, “America’s Alchemist.” Check out this modern money thriller in November!
4. ‘Escape to Margaritaville’ (February 2018)
Jimmy Buffett + Broadway = this musical escape to Margaritaville. The show will include some of Buffett’s classic tunes, such as “Cheeseburger in Paradise” and “Volcano.” This musical is under the direction of Tony Award winner Christopher Ashley (“Come From Away,” “Memphis”). February is your chance to take a tropical vacation to the Marquis Theatre.
5. ‘Springsteen on Broadway’ (October 2017)
This season, fall doesn’t just bring pumpkin spice lattes — it also introduces a unique solo show playing at the Walter Kerr Theatre. The legendary Bruce Springsteen makes his Broadway debut in a production of incomparable musical storytelling. Is there anything more we can say?
6. ‘Mean Girls’ (March 2018)
With a book by Tina Fey and a stellar creative team behind the scenes, this musical adaptation of the iconic 2004 movie is sure to be SO fetch. The Broadway cast has yet to be announced, but previews will include Erika Henningsen as Cady and Taylor Louderman, Kate Rockwell and Ashley Park as The Plastics.
7. ‘SpongeBob SquarePants’ (November 2017)
Anyone who isn’t a diehard fan of the TV show might be wondering what Bikini Bottom’s favorite sponge is doing in the middle of New York City. However, the musical’s pre-Broadway engagement garnered rave reviews and is sure to capture new audiences with its fun, feel-good story, spectacular music and memorable characters.
8. ‘My Fair Lady’ (April 2018)
Acclaimed director Bartlett Sher has brought to life beautiful revivals of “South Pacific,” “The King and I” and other classic shows. In 2018, he’ll bring a new generation of theatre-goers the beloved Lerner and Loewe musical, “My Fair Lady.” If it’s a traditional yet larger-than-life night of theatre you’re looking for, make sure to book your tickets to this show.
9. ‘Harry Potter and the Cursed Child’ (April 2018)
The magic of the Wizarding World hits the Broadway stage this spring! J.K. Rowling’s latest installment, co-written by Jack Thorne and John Tiffany, follows the story of Harry and friends in their adult years as they take on their most difficult task yet: parenthood. Harry’s son, Albus, is the focus of the story, alongside a number of familiar faces from the original series.
10. ‘Pretty Woman’ (Fall 2018)
As one of the best rom-coms in Hollywood history, Garry Marshall’s “Pretty Woman” was almost dedicated to make its way to the Broadway stage sooner or later. The new musical will star Samantha Barks (Eponine in the 2012 film version of “Les Misérables”) and Steve Kazee (“Once” on Broadway).
What Broadway musical are you most excited for? Share in the comments below!
[post_title] => 10 Broadway-Bound Shows Every Theatre Nerd Should Know About
[post_excerpt] =>
[post_status] => publish
[comment_status] => open
[ping_status] => open
[post_password] =>
[post_name] => 10-broadway-bound-shows-every-theatre-nerd-know
[to_ping] =>
[pinged] =>
[post_modified] => 2017-10-23 10:01:48
[post_modified_gmt] => 2017-10-23 14:01:48
[post_content_filtered] =>
[post_parent] => 0
[guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=12111
[menu_order] => 0
[post_type] => post
[post_mime_type] =>
[comment_count] => 2
[filter] => raw
)
[3] => WP_Post Object
(
[ID] => 12109
[post_author] => 736
[post_date] => 2017-10-20 09:40:59
[post_date_gmt] => 2017-10-20 13:40:59
[post_content] => We love to scour YouTube for some of the best theatre-related backstage insider videos, whether on Broadway or anywhere else. Check out some of our favorites below!
1. Dressing Roommates
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XErdZ9lPsIw&app=desktop Thinking about decorating your next dressing room? Well, take some advice from these two Broadway stars, Heidi Blickenstaff and Kate Reinders, as they DIY theirs at “Something Rotten.”2. Jellicles Are Backstage Pros
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6jo8FMDXoEA&app=desktop Most Broadway shows now film really amazing commercials! Check out this behind-the-scenes video of the making of the commercial from the current production of “Cats,” now running at the Neil Simon Theatre. This video has the insight scoop from the cast and creators of the show.3. A Whole New World
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4aPoFuWRqro&app=desktop Love cast albums? Check out this inside look at the making of the “Aladdin” cast album. The show is now playing at the New Amsterdam on Broadway.4. ‘It’s a Backstage Life’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1h87xRkH7CA The crew of “Annie” at Grand Rapids Theatre gives us a great parody and much-needed truths about working backstage to the song, “It’s a Hard-Knock Life.”5. Born to Backstage Boogie
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FaihEq5aYns I’m a bit partial to this backstage tour video, since it’s me giving you a backstage tour at “Billy Elliot” when it was currently running on Broadway.7. From Script to Stage
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rYUhPe31dLY In case you missed it, PBS aired a great documentary about the casting and making of the most recent revival of “Annie” on Broadway. Watch how these talented kids make their mark as the most recent batch of orphans to grace the Broadway stage.8. Makeup Magic
Is your theatre planning a production of “Shrek?” Check out these next two videos. First, here is how makeup professionals transform Eric Peterson in the title character. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fEi209x8A5k Here is an excellent tutorial from Churubusco High School that teaches you how to transform into Lord Farquaad. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4sXBA5IdCQ4Did we miss your favorite backstage video? Share with us in the comments below...
[post_title] => Our Favorite Backstage Insider Videos [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => favorite-backstage-insider-videos [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2017-10-20 09:40:59 [post_modified_gmt] => 2017-10-20 13:40:59 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=12109 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 2 [filter] => raw ) [4] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 12057 [post_author] => 1 [post_date] => 2017-10-18 09:40:55 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-10-18 13:40:55 [post_content] =>‘Newsies’
Not every musical movie is actually set on a stage, but this high-energy show is taped inside a theatre. It’s chock-full of amazing choreography and features original members of the Broadway cast. This Netflix watch is about as close your couch can get to sitting in a New York City theatre.
‘Shrek the Musical’
In similar fashion, we’re happy to report you can still stream this fairy tale of ogre-ish proportions. It stars Broadway names such as Brian d’Arcy James and Sutton Foster and ties in nicely with the creepy, crawly Halloween season. Be warned: This fantastical musical is more silly than spooky!
‘Beauty and the Beast’
She really is a funny girl, that Belle! The live action film featuring Emma Watson and Dan Stevens is one of Netflix’s newest additions. While this latest version may differ from the theatrical productions of “Beauty and the Beast,” it still includes iconic tunes such as “Be Our Guest” and “Something There.” It’s the perfect movie musical when you need a little Disney magic.
‘Anastasia’
While this Russian royal currently graces the Great White Way, she also reigns on Netflix in this beloved 1997 animated feature. Rom-com queen Meg Ryan lends her voice to Princess Anastasia, with actor John Cusack voicing cartoon heartthrob Dmitri. Pregame for your trip to the Broadhurst Theatre with this musical masterpiece.
‘Chicago’
The year is 1924, and the merry murderesses of Cook County Jail are fierce and fabulous — mostly because they’re shimmying to the “Cell Block Tango,” “Roxie” and “I Can’t Do It Alone.” Pop some popcorn and experience glitz and glamor in this screen adaptation.
‘Grease’
Summer lovin’ happened so fast — and now it’s fall. However, you can still sing along to this Netflix stream if you’re in the mood for some greased lightning. Celebrate the back-to-school season with Danny, Sandy, Rizzo and the rest of the students from Rydell High.
‘The Last Five Years’
Experience a modern tale of love and loss featuring Broadway’s own Jeremy Jordan and Hollywood starlet Anna Kendrick. “The Last Five Years” touches on relatable relationship issues and showcases heartfelt songs (penned by Jason Robert Brown”) that you’ll be humming all day long.
‘High School Musical’
Autumn often means the return of homework, studying and midterms. Get your head in the game for school (or work) by relieving this melodious Disney Channel original. Go Wildcats!
‘White Christmas’
It may only be October, but it won’t be long until the holiday season arrives. If you’re counting down the days until Christmas, why not tune into this Irving Berlin classic? There’s snow reason not to.
Have a favorite musical on Netflix? Share in the comments below...
[post_title] => Every Broadway Musical Movie On Netflix This Fall [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => every-broadway-musical-movie-netflix-fall [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2017-10-18 16:19:58 [post_modified_gmt] => 2017-10-18 20:19:58 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=12057 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 4 [filter] => raw ) [5] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 12046 [post_author] => 7 [post_date] => 2017-10-16 09:27:35 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-10-16 13:27:35 [post_content] => Walking into the Neil Simon Theatre, I had no idea what to expect from seeing Andrew Lloyd Webber’s “Cats” for the first time. I’ll be honest, I was nervous. Like any other theatre aficionado, I had heard both the good and the bad about the iconic musical. Nonetheless, despite what I’d been told, I grabbed my ticket and headed into the junkyard. Ten minutes into the production, I was in love. Experiencing the choreography, costumes, makeup and music, I instantly realized why “Cats” has become an international phenomenon. Sure, it has its issues — it’s not an emotional rollercoaster like “Dear Evan Hansen” or a global game-changer like “Hamilton — but it’s an undeniably fun and entertaining show. Of course, I left the theatre with some questions, both for the actors and the creative team. Here are eight questions I kept thinking about on the subway home that you’ll probably also think when you see “Cats” for the first time:1. How Do The Actors Not Go Crazy?
While I loved the music, it took me roughly three weeks to get “Jellicle Songs for Jellicle Cats” out of my head. Whether I was getting ready, at work or sleeping, I was entrapped by the catchy tune. Imagine singing it eight times a week for a year? Yep, I’d go crazy. That’s definitely some musical theatre overload.
2. How Do The Cats Keep Their Makeup Intact?
If you didn’t already know, “Cats” is an incredibly dance-heavy show. From flips to turns to every trick in the book, it’s one of the most physical shows on Broadway. Yet somehow, each cat’s extensive makeup stays intact throughout the entire production. Literally, how? It must be some of that Broadway magic.
3. Am I Mungojerrie or Rumpleteazer?
Mungojerrie and Rumpleteazer have one of my absolute favorite numbers in the show. And while the thieving duo are quite similar, they both have their quirks. The question on hand is, am I a Mungojerrie or a Rumpleteazer? Either way, nothing’s as fun as a mischievous evening in the junkyard.
4. Will I Ever Get ‘Memory’ Out of My Memory?
Much like “Jellicle Songs for Jellicle Cats,” Grizabella’s eleven o’clock number, “Memory,” is one of the most memorable songs of the musical. While it’s a gorgeous tune, I once again found myself stuck with her shrieks for love running through my ears wherever I went. At this point, I’ve accepted my fate. I am turning into a “Cats” jukebox.
5. Where Is Macavity?
‘Nuff said.
6. Where Is the Heaviside Layer?
At the end of the show, one of the cats is chosen to ascend to the Heaviside Layer to start its new life. Confusing? Yes. But the real question is, where exactly is the Heaviside Layer? Heaven? The North Pole? Who really knows?
7. How Are the Performers Still Alive?
Seriously, though. “Cats” is an incredibly demanding show. My knees were aching from just watching it. While all Broadway dancers have to take care of their bodies, the actors in “Cats” take a healthy living to a whole new level. Shoutout to them.
8. Can I Be a Jellicle Cat?
Please, Andrew Lloyd Webber. There’s truly nothing I want more.
What questions did you have after you saw “Cats?” Let us know in the comments below...
[post_title] => 8 Questions You Ask After Seeing ‘Cats’ For The First Time [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => 8-questions-ask-seeing-cats-first-time [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2017-10-16 09:27:35 [post_modified_gmt] => 2017-10-16 13:27:35 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=12046 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 8 [filter] => raw ) [6] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 12036 [post_author] => 736 [post_date] => 2017-10-13 09:52:21 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-10-13 13:52:21 [post_content] => It’s not enough to ace the dancing and acting portions of your audition — singing is a must-have skill for any musical theatre performer trying to make it big in the Big Apple. To help, here are pieces of advice from professional New York City musical theatre performers, musical theatre directors, coaches and audition accompanists:1. Mara Jill Herman
Mara Jill Herman has worked Off-Broadway and has toured nationally in “Jesus Christ Superstar” and internationally through “Disney on Classic” in Japan and cruise ships. Here’s her advice for auditions:
“Take risks in auditions! It’s OK to gender-bend if the story you’re telling evokes your desired character. Changing the lyrics to a well-known song can also help display your comedic chops and land you a callback or ultimate booking. But, be respectful and know your audience!”
2. Christopher McGovern
Christopher McGovern is an award-winning writer, librettist, composer, lyricist, pianist, musical director and arranger, CD producer and educator. His current credits include libretto/original songs and arrangements for the regional hits “Lizzie Borden,” “Backwards in High Heels,,” “Cagney” (which can currently be seen at the El Portal Theatre in Los Angeles) and “Dr. Radio, among others. He also did music and lyrics for the “Let the Memories Begin” castle projection show at U.S. Disney parks. He’s also done extensive concert work with many artists, including Roslyn Kind, Jason Graae, Liz Callaway, Karen Mason and Tony nominees Susan Egan, Christiane Noll, Charles Busch and Alison Fraser. Here’s his advice:
“Sing a selection appropriate to the score for which you are auditioning, and sing it in your own unique voice. Your storytelling and your vocal chops are both important. Be a musician, and don’t ‘skrelt’ at us. And, for god’s sake, never ‘snap’ the tempo to your accompanist — they might just happen to be the composer of the show.”
3. Seth Bisen-Hersh
Seth Bisen-Hersh has completed the score for “Trivial Pursuits” (music), “Meaningless Sex” (music/lyrics), “The Spickner Spin” (music/co-lyrics), “More to Love” (music/lyrics), “Stanley’s Party” (music/lyrics) and “Love Quirks” (music/lyrics). He has played for Broadway auditions and hundreds of Off-Broadway, LORT, summer stock, cruise line, reading, workshop and festival auditions. Furthermore, he has been musically directing and accompanying cabarets, readings and showcases in the city since 2003. Here’s what he had to say about auditions:
“Don’t be a character — be yourself. Choose a likeable, optimistic, upbeat comic (unless you’re going in for something truly unfunny) number. I know it’s hard, but the reasons for casting people are so arbitrary and subjective, the best thing to do is go in, have as much fun as possible and then forget you had an audition.”
4. Rebecca Larkin
Rebecca Larkin has been seen on Broadway in “South Pacific” and “Avenue Q,” as well as in TV, film, regional theatre and cruise ships. She also coaches musical theatre performers. Here’s her advice:
“Find a 16-bar cut of what you do best (your favorite style, something that makes people laugh, shows off your money notes, breaks their hearts, whatever makes you light up because you love doing it) and try to use it as often as possible. They want to see you be great at something more than they need the absolute perfect song. Of course, don’t bring legit to a ‘Hamilton’ audition, but within reason, many styles do overlap each other.
“Practice your audition piece in the shoes and outfit you plan on wearing. Different heels can change where you put your weight. Figuring out you inadvertently suck in your stomach in a certain dress is better to find out at home rather than in the room when you suddenly run out of air mid-note. The fewer surprises in there, the better!”
5. Chris Giordano’s
Chris Giordano’s national tour credits include “Broadway Christmas Wonderland” and “The Berenstain Bears Live!” and he has many regional performing credits as well. As a teaching artist and a member of the Educational Theatre Association, he has taught theatre classes with Inside Broadway, AMDA’s High School Summer Conservatory, Kidville, Brooklyn Acting Lab, Camp Broadway, the Boys and Girls Club, the Putney School Summer Program in Vermont and many public schools. He is the current managing director of Theatre Now New York and produced Sound Bites 4.0, a festival of 10-minute musicals at the Signature Theatre. His advice?
“Make sure [you make] at least one bold choice, whether [it’s] the song you sing or acting beat.”
What was the best piece of advice you received about singing during auditions? Let us know in the comments below...
[post_title] => Vocal Audition Advice From 5 NYC Pros [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => vocal-audition-advice-5-nyc-pros [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2017-11-04 20:06:17 [post_modified_gmt] => 2017-11-05 00:06:17 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=12036 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [7] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 12011 [post_author] => 766 [post_date] => 2017-10-10 08:33:00 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-10-10 12:33:00 [post_content] => [viralQuiz id=58] [post_title] => Quiz: How Many Of These Classic Musicals Do You Know? [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => quiz-many-classic-musicals-know [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2017-10-10 08:33:00 [post_modified_gmt] => 2017-10-10 12:33:00 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=12011 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 7 [filter] => raw ) [8] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 12018 [post_author] => 736 [post_date] => 2017-10-09 10:06:44 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-10-09 14:06:44 [post_content] => Got talent? Don’t be shy — show it off! Working consistently in this business usually requires not only talent, but a great effort to get seen. Overnight sensations are a rare occurrence. However, you can help the scale of success tip in your favor by showing off your talents and creating a following on the biggest, fastest-growing, most easily accessible and completely free interface of the world: social media. Here are five tips for using social media to help be seen as a performer and, if you’re lucky, catapult your career toward stardom:1. Create Video Content
Creating original content is probably the easiest and cheapest way to get your talent into the universe on your own terms. You have complete control over showcasing your best and most marketable performing skills that can get you hired.
The following are some examples of performance-related content you can create and post online:
- Writing and performing your own music
- Doing dance pieces
- Performing poetry
- Debuting theatre work
- Showcasing original standup material
- Creating fun and whacky characters
- Teaching others a performance skill
- Video blogging
2. Be Involved in Others’ Content
Volunteer to be part of friends’ content, or collaborate with other like-minded individuals to make some. Not only does this get your talents into the world, but there is even more of a chance more people will see it, since the others involved will also share across their social media platforms.
Web series, music videos and dance routines are all great examples of how groups of people can work together to create online content. Again, remember the options and ideas are limitless, so get collaborating, then get sharing!
3. Recreate Content
Reinventing others’ popular content that already has a good following can create an immediate and excited audience for your social media posts.
Musically speaking, mashups, remixes, covers and acoustic versions of well-known material are great examples of ways to recreate popular content. You can also add your own spin to well-known characters and public figures. Once you’ve created your work, post on as many social media platforms you can.
If you do decide to go this route, be sure to be aware of copyright. You may need to get permission or the rights to recreate someone else’s work. Do your research before you post.
4. Share Websites and Links
Not all your created content or performance-related material can be placed on social media. Instagram alone has a 60-second video time limit. When you can’t create content for a specific social media site, share your website links and/or photos of it instead. When posting photos, make sure you talk a bit about the project and link back to the original site in the comments section or another place where you can write a blurb.
In this fast-paced world, most go to social media first to get a quick, all-encompassing view of you and your talents. By remembering to post links to websites that showcase your talents, your social media will serve as a gateway to entice friends, family, fans and followers on your feeds to click on the links or look elsewhere on the web for more insight into your performing prowess.
5. Go Live
Facebook and Instagram, as well as several other social media sites, now offer the opportunity to go live. You can stream whatever content you want by just using the lens on your phone in real time with the press of a button. Whether you go live in your daily routine, rehearsal sessions or stage performances, your viewers will love the inside look at your performing life and keep tuning in for more. An added plus is that many of these live feeds allow you to interact with your followers, creating a positive buzz for you and your talents. You certainly can’t go wrong as long as you keep your livestream positive and performance-related.
How do you use social media to boost your career? Let us know in the comments below...
[post_title] => 5 Ways Performers Can Leverage Social Media To Gain Exposure [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => 5-ways-performers-can-leverage-social-media-gain-exposure [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2017-10-09 16:35:07 [post_modified_gmt] => 2017-10-09 20:35:07 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=12018 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [9] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 12013 [post_author] => 440 [post_date] => 2017-10-06 09:31:37 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-10-06 13:31:37 [post_content] => The time of the Great Pumpkin is upon us again. With October in full swing, Halloween preparations have already begun. What better way to get in the mood than with the perfect playlist? Whether you prefer tricks or treats, scary or sweet, we’ve got you covered for your Halloween musical playlist picks. Here are a few Broadway cast recordings to help you get in that Halloween spirit:1. ‘The Phantom of the Opera at the Royal Albert Hall’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jUTQarYXSSo&list=PL0R2Hl-K6ARyo_7RF15Sbmf3SV558TZ0-&index=6 Combine mystery, murder and a haunted opera house, and you’ve got the perfect recipe for a spooky musical. Andrew Lloyd Webber’s take on the classic French novel by Gaston Leroux will leave you feeling both enchanted and haunted.2. ‘Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street (Original Broadway Cast Recording)’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j8t4Ny39tt8&index=1&list=PLYfAbaAAM7dOv_PjPQqMatagZqnjLuv3- From the very first note of the organ, there is a foreboding tone to this recording that is confirmed moments later by a screaming whistle. Stephen Sondheim’s dark and gruesome tale of the psychotic barber of Fleet Street is not for the faint of heart.3. ‘Wicked (Original Broadway Cast Recording)’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fplGR59YHHs Witches are as synonymous with Halloween as pumpkins! So, it makes sense to include the origin story of the most famous witch in pop culture, who was on the scene long before Hermione Granger.4. ‘The Rocky Horror Picture Show (Soundtrack from the Motion Picture)’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1vBrSWZnB9c The title of the show in red typeface dripping blood sets the stage for a horror extravaganza of epic proportions. While “Time Warp” is arguably the song heard most often around Halloween, the rest of the album holds other ace choices that are perfect for your party playlist.5. ‘Evil Dead: Original Broadway Cast Album’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EN_wnHYOxkE The flavor of “Evil Dead” is “The Rocky Horror Picture Show” meets any horror movie set in the woods ever. The cast sings and dances as they battle demons and each other while trying to survive a weekend in a remote cabin.6. ‘Into The Woods (Original Broadway Cast Recording)’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LiGRPYmTFV0&index=1&list=PL171AD3631237030A This one is a little more twisted fairy tale than Halloween horror, but it has a witch in it and the music is classic Sondheim, so we’re including it anyway.7. ‘Young Frankenstein (Original Broadway Cast Recording)’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gTLRLtkrN-c Another horror parody, the stage adaptation of the famous Mel Brooks movie has a few show-stopping numbers that could replace the “Monster Mash” on your Halloween playlist.8. ‘Little Shop of Horrors (Broadway Cast Recording)’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mQJagD96X8U Disney superstar Alan Menken found his first hit with this dark musical comedy about a mutant Venus flytrap that feeds on humans.9. ‘Jekyll and Hyde — The Musical (1997 Original Broadway Cast Recording)’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VzVbFBRnk_s&index=16&list=PLjXQ_rLk0ogaVqkK_mrtp1VYs51qk0oUN One of Broadway’s lesser-known musicals, “Jekyll and Hyde” is as dark as the original story on which it’s based. The classic tragic tale of a dangerous alter ego boasts some haunting pieces about the murderous doctor terrorizing London.10. ‘The Addams Family (Soundtrack from the Musical)’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3uzIS652wn0 The “Addams Family” theme song has long been a popular Halloween track. But now that everyone’s famous spooky family has joined the theatre world, there is a whole soundtrack of delightfully kooky tracks to enjoy.11. ‘Carrie: The Musical (Premiere Cast Recording)’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sr2MNQDdfs0&list=PLOzQWybIvc7ce-MUFF_IqgKctH2ov0kqo Based on Stephen King’s popular terror-inducing novel, the musical soundtrack features up-and-comers such as Molly Ranson alongside current Broadway stars such as Derek Klena and Christy Altomare of “Anastasia.”12. ‘Heathers: The Musical (World Premiere Cast Recording)’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zAmmc7VFiZY&list=PLsKQ_-bOmMesrFyPdBYeOH-f2R2dTR8HH The cult-classic film about a set of sinister and complex high schoolers first made its way to Broadway in 2014. The rock musical’s soundtrack is edgy with dark undertones and an ominous feel, making it a must-have for your Halloween playlist. Now, go dance the night away and remember to let the stage inspire you this Halloween season!What’s your favorite cast recording for Halloween? Let us know in the comments below...
[post_title] => 12 Halloween-Themed Cast Recordings To Get You In A Spooky Mood [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => 12-halloween-themed-cast-recordings-get-spooky-mood [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2017-10-06 09:31:37 [post_modified_gmt] => 2017-10-06 13:31:37 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=12013 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 2 [filter] => raw ) [10] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 11902 [post_author] => 1 [post_date] => 2017-10-04 09:56:13 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-10-04 13:56:13 [post_content] => [viralQuiz id=57] [post_title] => Quiz: Tell Us Your Favorite Things About Fall And We'll Tell You Your Favorite Show Tune [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => quiz-tell-us-favorite-things-fall-well-tell-favorite-show-tune [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2017-10-05 13:51:13 [post_modified_gmt] => 2017-10-05 17:51:13 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=11902 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 8 [filter] => raw ) [11] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 11903 [post_author] => 440 [post_date] => 2017-10-03 10:05:32 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-10-03 14:05:32 [post_content] => The first “Lord of the Rings” movie came out when I was in my early teens, and like many others, I developed a pretty serious crush on Legolas. I should clarify — not Orlando Bloom, the actor. I mean Legolas, the elf character. I saw the movie multiple times, drew pictures of him, and even redecorated my room like a forest (a choice I later regretted). While I was fully aware he was a made-up character, I could not help my obsessive crush on this fictional man with hair better than my own.
As I grew up, this translated itself more tangibly in my choice of crushes both onstage and offstage. Developing a crush on someone I was acting with in a show was a pretty regular occurrence. For further proof, check out my article, “ What I Learned From My First Showmance.”
The problem was, much like my Mirkwood fantasy man, I found myself attracted to the character and not the person behind it. It’s so easy to fall for a created character, especially if the actor portrays him or her in a relatable way that strikes a chord with the audience. Character lust can easily be confused for a real crush, and those of us onstage are even more susceptible to it.
Worried this might be happening to you? Here are some ways to tell if your crush is real or fictional:
Real Crush: Their actual name.
Character Lust: Their character’s name. That was an easy one.
Real Crush: Going to the movies, dinner, bowling or other real-world activities.
Character Lust: Hanging out at the theatre. You are both there at the same time. It’s practically a date.
Real Crush: You know their favorite color and birthday.
Character Lust: Their costume is blue, so that must be their favorite color right?
Real Crush: You get jealous when you hear someone else is into them.
Character Lust: You get jealous when they act romantically onstage with their written love interest (who is married in real life).
Real Crush: You imagine both of you together.
Character Lust: You imagine your characters together.
Real Crush: You get butterflies every time they flirt with you.
Character Lust: You get butterflies every time they say their lines.
Real Crush: You like seeing them in different roles.
Character Lust: You can’t imagine them playing anyone else.
via GIPHY
Real Crush: They have their flaws, but you like them anyway.
Character Lust: They are perfect, and no one else can compare!
Real Crush: They look good in anything.
Character Lust: They should just wear that costume. All the time. So hot.
The good news for you is that there is a cure to help you get over your fictional love. You are crushing on that character because they hold the qualities of what you are looking for in a real-life love. Ask yourself what it is you like about that character and what attracts you to them. Make a list, and use that to help you find someone with those attributes. My attraction to elven hero Legolas can be in part traced back to my love for adventure and a man who isn’t afraid to be daring. And having beautiful hair doesn’t hurt, either.
The key here is not to be afraid of your feelings. Embrace them for what they are, and use them to improve your actual love life. Who knows? You might even find a love story worthy of the stage.
Have you ever experienced character lust? Let us know in the comments below...
[post_title] => Signs That You Are Confusing Character Lust With A Real Crush [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => signs-confusing-character-lust-real-crush [to_ping] => [pinged] => https://theatrenerds.com/learned-first-showmance/ [post_modified] => 2017-10-03 10:11:21 [post_modified_gmt] => 2017-10-03 14:11:21 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=11903 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 1 [filter] => raw ) [12] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 11859 [post_author] => 736 [post_date] => 2017-10-02 08:00:37 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-10-02 12:00:37 [post_content] => If you think being a dresser backstage on Broadway is just putting actors in their costumes and helping with quick changes, think again. There are many facets to the skilled trade of being a professional wardrobe person. One Broadway show could have dressers in many positions who go beyond helping actors in and out of clothes. Here is a rundown of those types of roles:Laundry Person
While you may easily do your laundry at home, doing the laundry for a Broadway show is quite the task. Shows with large casts produce lots of dirty laundry, and doing all of it can be a full-day ordeal. If costumes have beadwork, special dyes or delicate stitching, they need special care when being washed. At least one person is usually dedicated to doing the laundry every day. This includes, but is not limited to, washing and drying (whether in a machine or by hand), sorting the clean laundry and putting it away in the appropriate place. Here is an inside look at all the jobs of a dresser when “Mary Poppins” was on Broadway, with a special glimpse into the laundry room. https://youtu.be/bdfmVlEh088Beader
If a show has costumes with intricate beadwork or even sequins, a beader is usually on staff to repair these specific costumes during non-performance hours (otherwise known as doing “daywork”). Beading is certainly a learned specialized skill and requires patience. This video from “Wicked” gives you an inside look at the beading skills and prep work that went into creating the costumes, as well as an idea of the dresser skills it would take to do upkeep during a beading daywork call. https://youtu.be/-u5lcCkYznYDayworker
In addition to a bead worker, other dressers are employed to do daywork in order to prepare and check the costumes before a performance. They ensure they look as pristine as they did on opening night.
Ironing, steaming and minor repairs are all allowed. The costumes are meticulously checked for any damage and are repaired onsite. Anyone who wants to be employed as a dayworker needs to have at least basic sewing skills and be able to sew small rips and buttons, among other things.
Stitcher
A stitcher is also onsite during daywork and sometimes during showtimes. This is a dresser who is a whiz with a sewing machine. It’s also helpful if this person can do pattern-making, use a serger and operate other applicable instruments. Stitchers will repair more difficult and larger rips and holes in costumes. They may also do alterations to costumes if a new actor or swing/understudy is going in the show.
Shoe Person
During daywork, a dresser who knows how to repair and keep shoes looking like new is also employed. Shoes take a beating from everyday wear and tear and hardcore dancing, so the shoe person can give shoes a fresh coat of paint/polish, check for repairs, replace or fix any rubber or hardware and/or take the shoes to a local cobbler for a more involved fix.
Wardrobes Supervisor
The wardrobe supervisor is in charge of all the dressers and oversees all the jobs listed here. The supervisor usually was once a dresser and has moved up the ranks to become someone who is now in charge. Due to union rules, the supervisor doesn’t usually dress. Instead, he or she works with the creative team to ensure costumes come onstage and offstage accordingly, schedules and hires the dressers and is the go-between for management, actors and the costume designer.Assistant Wardrobe Supervisor
This person does exactly as the title implies. He or she assists the supervisor with managerial work and sometimes dresses actors. It takes a special kind of person to be able to assist the supervisor in everyday tasks but also take the lead when the supervisor is out of the building. In addition, an assistant can serve as an extra hand during quick changes and fill in for dressers who call out sick at the last-minute when a swing isn’t available. Here is a great backstage tour and inside scoop from wardrobe supervisor Irene Bunis when “Mamma Mia” was running on Broadway. https://youtu.be/nxKs-rB6U8EDresser
https://youtu.be/widLgDuK-nk This great video from the National Theatre gives you a tour of the daily routine of a wardrobe dresser. There are two specialized dresser positions that also can exist during the run of a show beyond a regular dressing track of ensemble or principal actors: swing dressers and star dressers. Swing dressers fill in for the regular dressers when they are out sick or on vacation. Theatres will typically spend some time training a swing for this type of episode, but not always. Swings need to be quick on their feet and meld in easily with the daily show routines of the dresser they are taking over for. Check out this video from the former company of “Billy Elliot” in London, which showcases swing dresser Lauren Adams. https://youtu.be/eTp-q2BacEs Star dressers do exactly as this title implies: dresses the names/stars of the show. Pictured below is star dresser Jennifer Hohn with Lin-Manuel Miranda backstage at “Hamilton.”
These tracks usually require extra-special care, and star dressers will sometimes act as a special assistant, guest greeter and more in addition to helping carry out the costume changes with his or her actress. Many times, a star of a show will take their star dresser with them from show to show, since they are familiar with their work and have a good rapport. If you are meticulous and a people-person, this is a great job for you!
Have you worked or do you want to work in any of these areas? Share in the comments below
[post_title] => Beyond The Quick Change: The Many Jobs Of A Broadway Dresser [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => beyond-quick-change-many-jobs-broadway-dresser [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2017-10-02 17:55:06 [post_modified_gmt] => 2017-10-02 21:55:06 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=11859 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 2 [filter] => raw ) [13] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 10159 [post_author] => 886 [post_date] => 2017-09-30 10:51:18 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-09-30 14:51:18 [post_content] =>School of Rock the musical is full of different kids, but which one are you?
[post_title] => Which School of Rock Kid Are You? [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => closed [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => school-rock-kid [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2017-09-30 10:51:38 [post_modified_gmt] => 2017-09-30 14:51:38 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?post_type=snax_quiz&p=10159 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => snax_quiz [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [14] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 11724 [post_author] => 1121 [post_date] => 2017-09-28 12:50:44 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-09-28 16:50:44 [post_content] => Can you guess these musicals based on a single lyric? Give it a try! [post_title] => Quiz: Can You Guess These Musicals Based On One Random Song Lyric? [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => closed [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => can-guess-musicals-based-one-random-song-lyric [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2017-09-28 12:52:14 [post_modified_gmt] => 2017-09-28 16:52:14 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?post_type=snax_quiz&p=11724 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => snax_quiz [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [15] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 11812 [post_author] => 736 [post_date] => 2017-09-27 10:09:43 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-09-27 14:09:43 [post_content] => Whether on Broadway or beyond, working backstage can be fun, challenging, stressful and rewarding. Additionally, the skills you learn while working backstage can easily transition into real life in the seven following ways:1. Teamwork Makes the Dream Work
Theatre is a collaborative art form, and it takes a cast of thousands onstage and offstage working together as a team to make a show go off without a hitch.
Life Lesson: Be sure to include teamwork in your real life, whether it’s in another career endeavor, playing a sport, relationships, family or even achieving life goals. There’s no need to go it alone. So much can be achieved with a little help from a friend, colleague or mentor.
2. Problem-Solving
If you can’t problem-solve, you certainly can’t work backstage. You must not be afraid to fix an issue quickly when sets, costumes and props break or something else goes amiss.
Life Lesson: Bring this type of problem-solving into your real life. Take initiative to act quickly to fix things when they go wrong, whether it be at home, at school or at a job.
3. Multitasking
Who says you can’t do two things at once? How about three or four? How about doing a quick change with an actor while presetting another change for a different actor and safety-pinning a rip in a third actor’s costume? Think this hasn’t happened? Think again!
Life Lesson: Multitasking not just backstage can help you achieve goals faster, use your time more wisely and get so many things done. Even your parents will be impressed!
4. Trust Your Instincts
Trusting your instincts while you are problem-solving backstage is imperative when you only have 30 seconds for a quick change or a very short blackout. The show won’t stop to fix a mishap!
Life Lesson: Remembering to listen to your inner voice will always be the right choice, whether you’re choosing the right audition song, picking your future college/university or aiming to make a big life decision.
5. Be Nice to Everyone
Doing theatre means working closely with everyone onstage and backstage for long hours. Creating a positive working environment is a must and is the direct result of everyone being nice to one another despite individual idiosyncrasies.
Life Lesson: Remembering to be nice to everyone no matter your environment will bring you many friends, supportive teachers, mentors and colleagues who will help guide and support you throughout your life journey.
6. No One’s Job Is Easy
Looking at the other guy hooking up a microphone while you’re handling a costume emergency may make you think he has the easiest job in the world. Think again! What if that mic goes out or is positioned in such a way that the sound doesn’t work correctly?
Life Lesson: No one’s job is easy. Reminding yourself that everyone has challenges and obstacles to overcome can help you when you’re struggling. You are not alone.
7. Rest
Theatre is exhausting, and rest is imperative to ensure you are at your best so the show can go off smoothly.
Life Lesson: If you don’t get enough sleep before that big test, upcoming audition or even a vacation, you won’t have as much fun or be able to fully enjoy the experience or carry it out with vigor. Take your time to treat yourself kindly and get some zzz’s to recharge your battery.
What life lessons have you learned from working backstage? Let us know in the comments below
[post_title] => 7 Life Lessons Learned From Working Backstage [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => 7-life-lessons-learned-working-backstage [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2017-09-27 10:09:43 [post_modified_gmt] => 2017-09-27 14:09:43 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=11812 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 5 [filter] => raw ) [16] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 11803 [post_author] => 440 [post_date] => 2017-09-26 11:30:31 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-09-26 15:30:31 [post_content] => Yes, that’s your name up on that list! It doesn’t matter if you are 16 or 60 — going out for a role for community theatre can be daunting, especially when you aren’t sure what to expect. Creative teams will often assume members already know what’s required of them and won’t spell it out. To help you out, here is our advice for community theatre first-timers:Auditions
1. Avoid picking a song from the show for which you are auditioning. Choose something that showcases your vocals and acting ability.
2. Come prepared with everything they’ve asked for and more. Having a second song ready can be helpful, just in case.
3. Wear something that makes you feel comfortable and confident. It will help steady your nerves.
4. If there is a dance audition, make sure you have proper attire and don’t hide in the back. They can’t cast you if they can’t see you.
5. Don’t let the talent of the other auditionees psyche you out. You never know what the creative team is looking for, and it might be something you have!
Rehearsals
1 Show up on time. This cannot be stressed enough. You are a part of a team. Being late without an exceptional reason gives the impression you feel your time is more valuable than others’.
2. If you are sick or can’t make it, be sure to contact your director. They don’t need to waste rehearsal time tracking you down. If you are an integral part of that session’s rehearsal, they might use the advance notice to alter the rehearsal and work on something else instead.
3. When you miss a rehearsal, take the initiative to find out what you missed and get caught up before the next rehearsal.
4. Always have a pencil on hand. You will need to jot down stage directions and notes as they happen. Don’t leave it until the end of rehearsal, or you may forget things. The creative team will be annoyed if they have to tell you a second time.
5. Whether you’re playing the leading role or a mute tree, give it 100 percent. Every person who is part of the show is integral to the finished product. If you want to earn larger roles, show the creative team you can handle more by being the best at whatever you’re given and doing it with a smile.
6. There will be regulars and already established friend groups. Don’t let it intimidate you. If it does, find other newbies in the cast and start there. Then, get to know everyone as you work on scenes together. Just being friendly and saying hello goes a long way.
7. Another way to bond with members of the production and get involved is to help out with backstage tasks when you have downtime. Making props, helping build or strike the set, marking up the floor or even just tidying up the stage or rehearsal space are all good options.
8. Every production has drama going on backstage and onstage. Try to stay out of it. If you find yourself involved, diffuse the situation to the best of your ability. Keeping the group as cohesive as possible will ensure the best performance onstage.
9. In some companies or groups, you will be required to provide your costumes. Establish that as early as you can and start hunting for those perfect pieces. Don’t leave it to the last minute, or you may end up disappointed.
10. If you are responsible for getting your own costumes, be sure the director approves of all your choices. Don’t wait for them to see the costumes onstage during dress rehearsal. If they tell you what you chose isn’t going to work, you’ll be left scrambling at the last minute.
11. You will be expected to practice and review on your time. Showing up to a rehearsal unprepared is unfair to your fellow castmates and the creative team. Block out a small pocket of time a few times a week to go over what you’ve learned.
12. Ask questions if you are confused or need something repeated. Don’t be embarrassed — someone else may have the same question and is also afraid to speak up. Giving a poor performance will be far more embarrassing, so get clarification if you need it.
13. If you have a conflict, speak to that person directly, if you can, or take it to the director. Avoid spreading gossip at all costs. The worst thing you can do is talk to someone else in the cast. The more people involved, the bigger the problem gets.
14. Don’t take constructive criticism of your performance personally. A lot of first-timers will get upset if the director or choreographer corrects them or asks them to change what they’re doing. They are just trying to make the show the best it can be, and their approach may not be the same as yours. Keep your chin up, listen to what they are saying and take everything in stride.
15. Make sure you warm up before every rehearsal. There may not always be time to warm up as a group, so leave yourself a few moments to stretch your limbs and vocal chords.
16. Keep the diva moments to a minimum. Respectfully voicing your ideas to members of the creative time is fine, but it’s ultimately up to them to decide how the show is put on.
17. It is good to try new things and grow as an artist, but if you are really uncomfortable with something, speak to the director about it. Most are very accommodating and will do their best to rework it.
18. Be patient. There will be a fair bit of standing around and waiting for others. Keeping a positive attitude will help maintain a pleasant and creative environment.
Tech Week
1. Tech week is grueling. Go into it with that in mind, and you will avoid an unpleasant surprise.
2. Be patient. There are a lot of elements at play, and everyone is tired and on edge. Emotions run very high during this period, and a little bit of patience can go a long way toward avoiding a major incident.
3. Stay positive. Tech week rehearsals are notorious for having everything go wrong that can, but 99 percent of the time, it all turns out okay in the end.
4. Stay focused. There will be a lot going on, and this is when injuries can happen. Adding set pieces, costumes, props, lighting and sound can cause a lot of confusion. There will be people everywhere. Be aware of your surroundings, and don’t get distracted by what others are doing.
5. Do everything you can to stay healthy. The stress, rehearsals and physical demands will take their toll on you. Be preventative by doing things that keep you relaxed, drinking lots of water, resting when you can, taking vitamins and staying warm.
6. Do not schedule anything social during this week. You will not make it to that. Tech week is very demanding, and adding commitments will just add to your stress.
7. Keep your area of the dressing room as neat and organized as you can. Quick changes are a recipe for lost items, so try to have designated places for your things. A storage container for makeup and hair items, a bag for shoes, a bag for laundry, your own hangers and clothing bag for costumes and a general bag or suitcase to store it all in can be beneficial.
8. Make sure you label all your things with your name or initials. That way, if they are misplaced, you’re more likely to recover them.
9. Bring your own small mirror. There are never enough mirrors for everyone, and you’ll need one.
10. Always have water on hand. It gets extremely warm onstage and in dressing rooms, and the last thing you want is to pass out or get sick from dehydration.
11. If you can, do as much preparation at home before you go to the theatre. It will help you stay relaxed among the backstage frenzy.
Performance
1. Invite your friends and family as soon as you know the date of the show. Booking people ahead of time will ensure you have some friendly faces in the crowd to give you that extra energy during the performance.
2. Promote your show as much as you can. Tell everyone you know and advertise it on your social media. The more people there are in seats, the better it is for the group.
3. If something goes wrong or you mess up, don’t let it break your focus. Treat it like it was intentional and keep going. It’s unlikely the audience will even realize or remember.
4. Give every performance as much energy as opening night. Most people in the crowd will be seeing the show for the first time and deserve the best performance possible.
5. Keep track of your cues. It’s easy to get distracted backstage, and there’s nothing worse than an angry stage manager tracking you down.
6. Treat your backstage crew with respect. They are the unsung heroes of every show, work just as hard as the cast onstage and are often unrecognized for their contributions. Be sure to thank them when you see them around.
7. Don’t eat in your costume. If your stage manager finds out, you’ll live to regret it.
8. Use the bathroom before the show starts and at intermission. It sounds silly, but it can mess up your focus if you need to go. Plus, trying to go to the restroom with your costume on can be really tough.
9. Nerves are completely normal and expected. Try to channel that energy into each performance. Keep yourself from freaking out by taking everything one step at a time, one scene at a time. Breaking it down into smaller chunks will make it less frightening and more manageable.
10. Don’t freak out if the audience doesn’t laugh or react when they are expected to. Some audiences are more reactive than others. It doesn’t mean they didn’t find it funny or enjoyable — they might just be more reserved theatergoers.
11. When it’s all over, be sure to thank everyone involved. Appreciation is always remembered.
It’s easy to get caught up in the chaos of community theatre, but before you know it, the show will close its last performance. Whether it’s your first show or your 20th, try to enjoy each moment and each experience for what it is: pure magic.
What advice would you give someone joining community theatre for the first time? Let us know in the comments below...
[post_title] => A Beginners Guide To Community Theatre [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => beginners-guide-community-theatre [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2018-10-18 12:59:26 [post_modified_gmt] => 2018-10-18 16:59:26 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=11803 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 11 [filter] => raw ) [17] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 11711 [post_author] => 714 [post_date] => 2017-09-25 09:12:07 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-09-25 13:12:07 [post_content] => We’ve all been there. You prepare hours and hours to nail the perfect song for your next audition. Your music is perfectly printed, you have a killer outfit and you’re sucking on a Thayers Slippery Elm lozenge as you head out the door. However, when you get to the audition, you hear, “Do you have any other songs prepared? Maybe something more [insert strange adjective here].” Your heart stops, and you freeze. You don’t have anything else! You don’t sing another song, you leave the audition and you don’t get the role. Don’t let this be you. The No. 1 thing you have to be as an actor is prepared. This means having a ton of songs in your audition book that you can pull out at a moment’s notice. After all, you could get a call today that you have an audition and have no time to learn something new. You must have an arsenal of material that you can hit out of the park at all times. Here’s a breakdown of the types of songs you should have in your audition book:1. Golden Age
The Golden Age (anything from 1940 to the 1960s) is a musical era you must have in your book. Ideally, you’d have at least one Rodgers and Hammerstein song in there.
2. Jazz Standards (American Songbook)
For this genre, think of the tunes made famous by Frank Sinatra. Jessie Mueller once told the story of how she auditioned for “On a Clear Day You Can See Forever” and sang, “It Might as Well Be Spring” from “State Fair.” They immediately asked her if she had anything more jazzy to fit the style of the show. She didn’t have anything, so she asked the accompanist to speed up her original song and sang the Rodgers and Hammerstein classic as if she were Ella Fitzgerald. She got the job.
The moral of the story is to make sure you have a jazz standard in your book — or be prepared to do some major musical tweaking on the spot if you don’t.
3. Sondheim
Most people say to never sing Sondheim, but if you can handle his crazy rhythms and phrasings at the drop of a hat, you’ll be sure to impress the casting team.
4. Rock Musical
This is what you need for shows like “Rent,” “Rock of Ages,” “American Idiot,” “Spring Awakening” and “Jesus Christ Superstar.”
5. Contemporary
I call this the Jason Robert Brown-style song. Look for standalone cabaret songs, such as those from Goldrich and Heisler or Kerrigan and Lowdermilk.
6. Pop
With more recording artists such as Sara Bareilles and Carole King dipping their toes into Broadway, it’s good to have a Top 40 song in your book.
7. Disney
Disney has such a strong presence on Broadway that if you are a working musical theatre actor, you probably already have done or will do a Disney production one day. Examples include “Mary Poppins,” “Newsies,” “Aladdin,” “The Little Mermaid” and “Beauty and the Beast.”
This is just a list to start you out with getting more variety in your book. There are many other types of songs that would be great to have for an audition. Also, keep in mind that while your book should vary in musical genre, you should also have a good mix of up-tempo and ballad songs. Best of luck with your future auditions!
Think of another type of song to have in your audition book? Leave a comment below...
[post_title] => 7 Types Of Songs That Should Be In Your Audition Book [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => 7-types-songs-audition-book [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2017-09-25 09:12:07 [post_modified_gmt] => 2017-09-25 13:12:07 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=11711 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 4 [filter] => raw ) [18] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 11644 [post_author] => 391 [post_date] => 2017-09-22 09:27:58 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-09-22 13:27:58 [post_content] => Act 1 finales such as “One Day More,” “A New Argentina” and “And I Am Telling You I’m Not Going” thrill audiences and keep them excited for the next half of the show. Whether it’s a show-stopping solo, a rousing ensemble number or a subtle encounter between two lovers, Act 1 finales are crucial to any great musical. In no particular order, here are 16 of our favorite contemporary Act 1 finales, with “contemporary” meaning anything from “Rent” onward:1. ‘Defying Gravity’ from ‘Wicked’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=glsmLGpqMzA No one can bring down this epic Act 1 closer, complete with an electric platform sending Elphaba as high as her top notes!2. ‘Non Stop’ from ‘Hamilton’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xjc5bLdtB64 Similar to “One Day More,” this finale uses counterpoint in the final minute as all the characters prepare for the next phase in history.3. ‘So Much Better’ from ‘Legally Blonde: The Musical’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Br50XFvrsp8 Elle Woods rests her case as an up-and-coming lawyer by scoring an internship with Professor Callahan.4. ‘You Will Be Found’ from ‘Dear Evan Hansen’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ssCFUdXQAqw The shy, awkward Evan Hansen devises the Connor Project to keep the memory of his deceased “friend” alive.5. ‘The Ball’ from ‘Natasha, Pierre, and the Great Comet of 1812’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U7Hx7XgJ1IQ Seduced by Anatole, Natasha is sucked into an affair of astronomical proportions.6. ‘Blackout’ from ‘In the Heights’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T0V2cCjf1Tk Here’s another fantastic Lin-Manuel Miranda finale that will have the whole barrio on its feet!7. ‘La Vie Boheme’ from ‘Rent’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xIOV74lFW78 Honestly, what’s better than seeing a group of artists spontaneously turning dinner into a tribute to their idols and inspirations?8. ‘Esmeralda’ from ‘The Hunchback of Notre Dame’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PrU94AinA08 The glorious melodies and harmonies in this ensemble number ring out like the bells of the famous Paris cathedral.9. ‘Bottom’s Gonna Be On Top’ from ‘Something Rotten!’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GSvDzg3Up70 This Shakespeare-themed number is chock-full of references and subtle one-liners from the Bard’s own characters interacting with one another.10. ‘Man Up’ from ‘The Book of Mormon’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bzUGL6BGMc4 After being let go by Elder Price, Elder Cunningham takes advantage of an opportunity to teach the Ugandan people about the Mormon faith.11. ‘Conga’ from ‘On Your Feet!’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ToKC_U4x_f8 One of the best jukebox musical finales in recent years, the music of Miami Sound Machine makes it irresistible to dance along.12. ‘Here I Go Again’ from ‘Rock of Ages’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H-yrrNaIjhI This jukebox musical, a tribute to ‘80s rock hits, closes the first act with Whitesnake’s best-known song.13. ‘Stronger’ from ‘Finding Neverland’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fevDew-8oSo An encounter between J.M. Barrie and a certain “Peter Pan” character will keep you hooked for the rest of the show!14. ‘Who I’d Be’ from ‘Shrek the Musical’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sZWGsOJhBs4 This monster-level number features Shrek opening up about who he’d be if he weren’t an ogre.15. ‘Bad Idea’ from ‘Waitress the Musical’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nscV-V48k7A Jenna and Dr. Pomatter serve the audience some serious chemistry in this fast-paced duet.16. ‘Astonishing’ from ‘Little Women’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5pNO71-yVN4 One of Sutton Foster’s signature numbers, this finale finds Jo March resolving to conquer her future.You May Also Enjoy: 15 Best Contemporary Opening Numbers In Musicals
Did we leave out your favorite contemporary Act 1 finale? Let us know in the comments below...
[post_title] => Top 16 Contemporary Act 1 Finales [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => top-16-contemporary-act-1-finales [to_ping] => [pinged] => https://theatrenerds.com/15-best-contemporary-opening-numbers-musicals/ [post_modified] => 2018-09-30 18:22:00 [post_modified_gmt] => 2018-09-30 22:22:00 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=11644 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 3 [filter] => raw ) [19] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 11509 [post_author] => 736 [post_date] => 2017-09-19 09:18:34 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-09-19 13:18:34 [post_content] => Got the moves? Want to work on Broadway and beyond? Here is some great audition advice from Broadway’s professional dancers:1. Nili Bassman
Nili Bassman has been seen on Broadway in “Curtains,” “Never Gonna Dance” and “Chicago.” Here’s her advice:
“The most important thing to bring into a room at a Broadway dance audition (or any audition, for that matter) is you. One-of-a-kind, beautiful, flawed you. Directors, choreographers and music directors want to see individuals with points of views — dancers with an awareness of who they are and access to all of that beautiful uniqueness. Steps can be refined and drilled during rehearsals, but presence, passion, creativity and personality cannot be taught. You’ve studied technique your entire life. Trust that. The audition room is the place to leave class behind and dance from your soul. All dancers are actors. We tell stories with our bodies. So, use the choreography presented to you to tell a story. Bring your life experience to the dance and make it your own. Have fun! Think of every audition as an opportunity to perform and leave your heart and soul and joy in the room. That is why we dance. That is why others are moved by dance. And yes, warm up, eat a snack and bring water and extra shoes!”
2. Correy West
Correy West has been seen on Broadway in “Nice Work If You Can Get It” and “South Pacific.”
Here’s his advice:
“I think the most important thing in a dance audition is to know your strengths and use them to your advantage. I used to spend so much time getting intimidated by the guys who were the most flexible or the ones who could do the most turns, but at the end of the day, there is only one you. If that shines through and you feel like you couldn’t have done anything else towards getting the part when you leave the room, it was a success!”
3. Justin Boccitto
Justin Boccitto is a New York City performer, teacher, director, choreographer and producer. His work has been seen Off-Broadway, regionally and beyond. He is also the executive director of The Group Theatre Too and the creator of Choreographer’s Canvas. And, if you like what he has to say, you can take a dance class from him at Broadway Dance Center.
Here’s his advice:
“Being on the other side of the table, I find the following things extremely important at dance calls:
- Invest in some nice dancewear. If you look good and feel good in your clothes, you will exude confidence. We spot that immediately.
- Work on your kicks and turns. These are two things that I use to quickly weed people out of the mix. You want high kicks and at least a triple pirouette.
- Tell a story with the combo. Even if the choreographer hasn’t given a lot of direction, don’t be passive in your performance. Make a specific choice and commit to it.”
4. Stephanie Bissonnette
Stephanie Bissonnette is an accomplished New York City dancer who has now joined the company of “Mean Girls” as it heads toward Broadway and its first regional premiere at the National Theatre.
Here’s her advice:
“I would say my biggest advice would be to just be yourself. Often the final decision is made because of a certain minor detail. Don’t take anything personally. Just keep getting up and heading to those auditions every day. You never know which one will be the one to skyrocket your career.”
5. Jeffry Denman
Jeffry Denman is an accoladed Broadway performer (“White Christmas,” “How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying,” “Cats,” “Dream”), director, choreographer, playwright, author and founder of the Denman Theatre and Dance Company. Here’s his great advice about reading for a role once you’ve made it past the dance stage:
“If you’re reading sides, get off book as much as you can. If you’ve just been given the sides, don’t worry, but if you’ve had them overnight, get off book. It is the single most effective way to get me to consider you. If I’m watching you simply look into papers, I have no idea how you are as an actor.”
What is your best advice for dance auditions? Let us know in the comments below...
Cover Photo: Broadway Dance Center
[post_title] => Dance Audition Advice From Five Broadway Pros [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => dance-audition-advice-five-broadway-pros [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2017-09-19 09:24:54 [post_modified_gmt] => 2017-09-19 13:24:54 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=11509 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 2 [filter] => raw ) [20] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 11497 [post_author] => 440 [post_date] => 2017-09-18 09:43:15 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-09-18 13:43:15 [post_content] => Games are the perfect way to break the ice and engage people of all ages. Within the structure of a drama class, games can be used as a get-to-know-you exercise, for warm-up, to introduce or practice a new skill or just for fun.Here are 10 drama games that are ideal for your next class:
1. Park Bench
Three chairs are set up in a row at the front. Pick one person to sit on the “park bench,” aka the row of chairs. They can pretend to read the newspaper, watch the birds, etc., but they must remain seated on the bench at all times. Select a second person to be the pedestrian. Their job is to embody a character and try to get the park bench occupant to laugh or leave the bench. They are not allowed any physical contact.
If the park bench occupant laughs or leaves the bench, the pedestrian takes their place. They become the park bench occupant and the game starts over. If the pedestrian is able to get the park bench occupant to laugh or leave the bench after an allotted amount of time, a new pedestrian is selected.
2. Party Quirks
Choose one person to be the party host and ask them to leave the room briefly. Choose three people to be party guests, and have the rest of the students suggest characters for each of them (such as man on a rollercoaster, Justin Bieber, girl who has lost her pet snake, etc.). The party host comes back into the room and returns to the front.
The party starts, and the first guest enters the party. They converse with the host while in character for one minute before the next guest enters the party to converse with the host. Stagger each guest until all three guests are at the party conversing with the host and each other. The guest must stay in character at all times. At the end of five minutes, the host must guess the character for each guest.
3. One-Word Story
This can be played in a small group or large group. The teacher starts the story with one sentence (i.e., “Once upon a time, there was a princess who dreamed of being an astronaut”). Moving clockwise around the circle, each student adds one word to the story. The circle is repeated as many times as the teacher deems necessary until they feel the story is finished.
4. Giants, Wizards and Elves
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nNP9FpgdLjI You will need a larger playing space for this one — going outside or into a gymnasium is preferable. This is like a giant game of “Rock, Paper, Scissors.” Giants beat elves because they can step on them. Wizards beat giants because they can shrink them. Elves beat wizards because they are quick and can duck their magic. Divide the students into two teams and put them on either side of the playing area. Teams huddle together and choose which of the three they will play first. They will also need to have a backup in the event that the other team has selected the same one. Once both teams have chosen, they meet in the middle and face each other. The teacher calls out, “Ready, set, go!” and both teams must yell what they chose while acting it out. Whichever teams wins the face-off chases the other team back to their side and tries to tag as many players as possible. Any players they tag from the losing team must now join their team, and they continue onto the next round. The game is over when one team has all the players on its side.5. Tableau Olympics
Divide the group into teams of four to six people and have each team choose a spot around the room. The teacher calls out a scene (such as Spiderman at the scene of a bank robbery, a birthday party gone wrong or a television awards show) and then counts down from 10. Teams have 10 seconds to organize a tableau and then freeze. The teacher then goes around and views each tableau before choosing a winner for that round. The winning team receives a point. Every student from the team must participate in the tableau or the team will be disqualified from the round.
Tip: Remind the students about the use of levels and facial expressions at the start of the game.
6. Change the Channel
Choose two to four students to start onstage and give them a scene to start (such as lifeguards rescuing someone from drowning). The teacher calls, “Action!” and the students begin acting out the given scene. At any point, the teacher calls “Freeze!” and the whole scene must freeze. The teacher selects one new volunteer, and they can tap any of the people onstage to go sit down and the assume that actor’s position.
When the teacher calls “Action!” again, the person who just tapped in must start a whole new scene based on the positions the remaining actors ended in. The other actors will need to improvise and join in the new scene. It must be completely different to the scene that was happening before. Every time the teacher calls “Freeze!” new students replace the previous ones and begin a new scene.
7. Graveyard
The teacher selects one person to be a gravekeeper, and they stand off to the side. The other students lie on their backs on the ground with their eyes open. They must stay completely still, with a straight face. The gravekeeper’s job is to go around and try to make each person laugh or speak using only acting. They are not allowed to touch the person on the ground. Anyone they succeed at making laugh is alive again and joins the gravekeeper in going around and trying to make the other students laugh or speak.
8. Simon Says (Stage Directions Version)
This is a great game for helping your students learn stage directions. This game follows the usual rules of “Simon Says.” Students should only do what the caller says if they say “Simon says.” If they do not put “Simon says” in front of the instruction and the student does it anyway, they are eliminated. The teacher calls out stage directions, such as downstage right or center. Students can only move to those places on the stage if the teacher says “Simon says” in front of it. Any students who move there otherwise are eliminated. Try to keep the calls coming quickly to keep the game interesting.
9. Greetings, Your Majesty
The teacher selects one student to sit in a chair and face away from the rest of the group. Ask the student in the chair to close their eyes. Select three students from the remaining group and have each one take a turn standing behind the chair and saying, “Greetings, your majesty” in whatever voice they like. Once all three students have gone, the student in the chair must guess who each one was.
10. Directors
Choose two to three actors to be onstage. Choose a director for each actor. The directors sit at the back, and the actors play out the scene at the front. The teacher assigns the actors a scene and the first direction, and the scene begins. The actors can only do what their directors say. The directors each take a turn narrating the scene, and the actors must act it out. Whenever the teacher sees fit, they can call “Cut!” and new actors and directors are selected.
Playing drama games is a great informal benchmark for where students are at in both comfort and range. Having them engage in games continuously over the length of the course allows you to see visible progress as students learn, become more comfortable and grow their abilities. Encourage everyone to participate and watch as they flourish and have fun!
Which drama games would you recommend? Let us know in the comments below...
[post_title] => 10 Theatre Games Perfect For Drama Class [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => 10-theatre-games-perfect-drama-class [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2019-01-28 10:33:18 [post_modified_gmt] => 2019-01-28 15:33:18 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=11497 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 2 [filter] => raw ) [21] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 11387 [post_author] => 1020 [post_date] => 2017-09-17 09:58:56 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-09-17 13:58:56 [post_content] => Laurence O'Keefe's biggest and best musical hit features a variety of strong female characters, including Elle Woods's spunky and supportive sorority sisters. Take this quiz to find out which one you are! [post_title] => Quiz: Which Delta Nu Are You? [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => closed [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => quiz-delta-nu [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2017-09-17 09:59:25 [post_modified_gmt] => 2017-09-17 13:59:25 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?post_type=snax_quiz&p=11387 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => snax_quiz [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [22] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 11385 [post_author] => 774 [post_date] => 2017-09-16 11:12:50 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-09-16 15:12:50 [post_content] =>[adthrive-in-post-video-player video-id="smHdTcQX" upload-date="2018-09-27T16:07:28.000Z" name="Waitress Pie Pillows DIY" description="In thes episide of Broadway DIY, Katie shows us how to create perfect pie pillows. These pillows are a comfortable way to show your Waitress musical pride."]
Welcome back to another Theatre Nerds DIY project!
Today we will be making a No-Sew Pie Pillows, inspired by our beloved show, Waitress!
To begin this project, what you will need is:
- Scissors
- Pencil
- Ruler
- Glue (you can use both fabric glue, or hot glue)
- Pom Poms
- Felt (light brown, brown, red and blue)
- Stuffing
Instructions:
*In the tutorial I only showed working on one pillow, if you care to make more than one, just repeat the same process!* 1. We will start off by measuring out on our light brown felt, a 12 inch circle to create as the body of the pie. You will need to make two of these, as these pieces will become the pouch to make the pillow. 2. Using your fabric glue, glue 3/4 of the two light brown felt pieces together. We want to leave a hole to later fill with stuffing. Allow the pieces to sit to the side and dry. 3. After making our pie crust, take your “pie filling” color of your choosing (in the video I made a red cherry pie) and measure out an 11 inch circle. This piece will sit inside of the pie crust we just made. Once that is cut out, adhere the filling piece to the crust and let dry. 4. To make the top crust pieces, we will be taking our darker brown felt pieces, and creating strips to later weave together. I used 8 strips per pie, however you can make yours smaller, or bigger-to your liking. 5. Once the pillow has finished drying, take your brown strips and begin to weave them together using the over under method. Once you have completed this, go ahead and glue the pieces to the top piece of felt and let dry. 6. For fun decoration, take your pom poms (berries for us) and decorate the top of the pie as you see fit. This gives it a fun and cute flare! Glue the pom poms onto the desired area and set it to the side. 7. Make sure your pillow is completely dry before beginning the stuffing process. Using your own personal preferences, fill the pillow to your desired need, without filling it too much and popping the seams. Once you have filled your pillow, carefully glue the small hole closed to complete the pillow. And there it is! An adorable, no-sew pie pillow! This will get any sweet tooth jealous of your delicious taste and skills. Thank you for watching! Follow Katie on Instagram for more fun projects @kbettiniart Happy Crafting! [post_title] => 'Waitress' DIY Pie Pillows [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => waitress-diy-pie-pillows [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2019-05-08 09:57:54 [post_modified_gmt] => 2019-05-08 13:57:54 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=11385 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 2 [filter] => raw ) [23] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 11362 [post_author] => 1 [post_date] => 2017-09-14 09:17:42 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-09-14 13:17:42 [post_content] => Click the 'More Details' under the song to get context, see lyrics and hear the song. To clarify, by 'fresh' we do not mean new, but under-done or overlooked songs that are great for auditioning.Here are 51 fresh audition songs for altos:
1. Nobody's Chasing Me from 'Out of This World'
Range : F3-Bb4
Style : Uptempo (Golden Age)
Mood : Frustrated, Comedic
MORE DETAILS2. Happy to Keep His Dinner Warm from 'How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying'
Range : C4-Eb5
Style : Ballad
Mood : Romantic, Comedic, Flirtatious
MORE DETAILS3. If He Really Knew Me from 'They're Playing Our Song'
Range : G3-B4
Style : Ballad
Mood : Romantic, Pivotal Moment
MORE DETAILS4. You’d Better Love Me from 'High Spirits'
Range : A3-C#5
Style : Midtempo (Swing)
Mood : Romantic, Sassy
MORE DETAILS5. Disneyland from 'Smile'
Range : G3-D5
Style : Ballad
Mood : Hopeful, Uplifting
MORE DETAILS6. Plant You Now, Dig You Later from 'Pal Joey'
Range : Bb3-D5
Style : Midtempo (Golden Age)
Mood : Romantic, Conniving
MORE DETAILS7. You Don’t Tell Me from 'No Strings'
Range : Ab3-C5
Style : Midtempo Swing
Mood : Kiss-Off, Defiant, Empowering
MORE DETAILS8. Someone Woke Up from 'Do I Hear A Waltz?'
Range : A3-B4
Style : Uptempo
Mood : Excited, Fascinated
MORE DETAILS9. That Terrific Rainbow from 'Pal Joey'
Range : B3-Bb4
Style : Midtempo Swing (Golden Age)
Mood : Sassy, Seductive
MORE DETAILS10. How I Feel from 'The Me Nobody Knows'
Range : G3-C5
Style : Ballad
Mood : Dramatic, Heartbreak
MORE DETAILS11. The Colors of My Life from 'Barnum'
Range : C4-Eb5
Style : Ballad
Mood : Introspective, Romantic
MORE DETAILS12. City Lights from 'The Act'
Range : G3-F5
Style : Uptempo Rag
Mood : Comedic, Sassy, Showstopper
MORE DETAILS13. What A Nice Idea from 'Two Gentlemen of Verona'
Range : A3-B4
Style : Midtempo (Soft Rock)
Mood : Jealous, Romantic
MORE DETAILS14. What Is A Woman from 'I Do! I Do!'
Range : G3-Db5
Style : Ballad
Mood : Dramatic, Nostalgic
MORE DETAILS15. Old Friend from 'I'm Getting My Act Together And Taking It On the Road'
Range : G3-Db5
Style : Ballad (Pop)
Mood : Romantic, Uplifting
MORE DETAILS16. The Music Still Plays On from 'A New Brain'
Range : F#3-G4
Style : Ballad (Contemporary)
Mood : Nostalgic, Motherly
MORE DETAILS17. Millwork from 'Working'
Range : A3-A4
Style : Ballad (Soft Rock)
Mood : Nostalgic, Emotional
MORE DETAILS18. If You Hadn’t But You Did from 'Two On the Aisle'
Range : G3-C5
Style : Uptempo
Mood : Comedic, Break-up, Showstopper
MORE DETAILS19. Lazy Afternoon from 'The Golden Apple'
Range : F3-C5
Style : Ballad (Golden Age)
Mood : Romantic, Seductive
MORE DETAILS20. Ladies from 'Destry Rides Again'
Range : G3-Bb4
Style : Midtempo (Golden Age)
Mood : Comedic, Sassy
MORE DETAILS21. How Can I Wait? from 'Paint Your Wagon'
Range : F3-C5
Style : Midtempo (Golden Age)
Mood : Romantic, Infatuated
MORE DETAILS22. Goodbye My Love from 'Ragtime'
Range : F#3-Db5
Style : Ballad (Waltz)
Mood : Hopeful, Dramatic, Romantic
MORE DETAILS23. My Big Mistake from 'The Will Rogers Follies'
Range : F3-D5
Style : Uptempo Swing
Mood : Romantic, Light-hearted
MORE DETAILS24. I Wish I Could Forget You from 'Passion'
Range : A3-E5
Style : Ballad (Contemporary)
Mood : Dark, Romantic, Dramatic
MORE DETAILS25. Change from 'A New Brain'
Range : F3-D5
Style : Uptempo (Contemporary)
Mood : Boisterous, Outgoing
MORE DETAILS26. No Time At All from 'Pippin'
Range : E3-A4
Style : Uptempo (Swing)
Mood : Carefree, 60s Pop-feel, Comedic
MORE DETAILS27. Our Kind of Love from 'The Beautiful Game'
Range : G3-D5
Style : Midtempo (Waltz)
Mood : Romantic, Inspiring
MORE DETAILS28. Why Do the Wrong People Travel? from 'Sail Away'
Range : C4-Eb5
Style : Midtempo (Golden Age)
Mood : Comedic, Wise-cracking
MORE DETAILS29. Hold On from 'The Secret Garden'
Range : F3-B4
Style : Ballad (Contemporary)
Mood : Motherly, Dramatic
MORE DETAILS30. If He Walked Into My Life from 'Mame'
Range : Bb3-D5
Style : Ballad
Mood : Regretful, Dramatic
MORE DETAILS31. It’s a Helluva Way to Run a Love Affair from 'Plain and Fancy'
Range : G3-C5
Style : Uptempo Swing (Golden Age)
Mood : Comedic, Romantic
MORE DETAILS32. I Ain’t Down Yet from 'The Unsinkable Molly Brown'
Range : Bb3-F5
Style : Uptempo (Golden Age)
Mood : Empowering, Confident
MORE DETAILS33. Turn Back, O Man from 'Godspell'
Range : D3-D5
Style : Midtempo (Rock/Blues)
Mood : Husky, Seductive
MORE DETAILS34. Anyone Can Whistle from 'Anyone Can Whistle'
Range : G3-C5
Style : Ballad (Golden Age)
Mood : Romantic, Hopeful
MORE DETAILS35. Look to the Rainbow from 'Finian's Rainbow'
Range : Bb3-Eb5
Style : Ballad (Golden Age)
Mood : Story-telling, Inspirational
MORE DETAILS36. How Are Things in Glocca Morra from 'Finian's Rainbow'
Range : A3-F5
Style : Ballad (Golden Age)
Mood : Folk tune-esque, Nostalgic
MORE DETAILS37. The Best In the World from 'A Day In Hollywood, A Night in the Ukraine'
Range : F3-D5
Style : Ballad
Mood : Nostalgic, Dramatic
MORE DETAILS38. Stop, Time from 'Big the Musical'
Range : G3-D5
Style : Ballad (Contemporary)
Mood : Motherly, Dramatic
MORE DETAILS39. I Just Want to Be a Star from 'Nunsense'
Range : G3-C5
Style : Midtempo (Swing)
Mood : Showstopper, Comedic, Sassy
MORE DETAILS40. Kiss Her Now from 'Dear World'
Range : Ab3-E5
Style : Ballad
Mood : Romantic, Dramatic
MORE DETAILS41. It's A Business from 'Curtains'
Range : C3-Ab5
Style : Midtempo (Swing)
Mood : Comedic, Wise-cracking, Character number
MORE DETAILS42. Lucky from 'A Little Princess'
Range : G3-C5
Style : Midtempo (Contemporary)
Mood : Jealous, Villainous, Cantankerous
MORE DETAILS43. It's An Art from 'Working'
Range : A3-D5
Style : Uptempo (Waltz)
Mood : Proud, Empowering
MORE DETAILS44. The Cake I Had from 'Grey Gardens'
Range : F#3-C#5
Style : Midtempo (Swing)
Mood : Comedic, Regretful, Cantankerous
MORE DETAILS45. I'm Going Back from 'Bells Are Ringing'
Range : Bb3-D5
Style : Uptempo (Golden Age, Jazzy)
Mood : Empowering, Finale
MORE DETAILS46. Flaming Agnes from 'I Do! I Do!'
Range : D3-Db5
Style : Midtempo (Jazzy)
Mood : Sassy, Comedic, Confident
MORE DETAILS47. Kiss of the Spider Woman from 'Kiss of the Spider Woman'
Range : G#3-G#5
Style : Midtempo (Waltz)
Mood : Dark, Menacing, Villainous
MORE DETAILS48. Special from 'Avenue Q'
Range : F3-Db5
Style : Midtempo (Jazzy)
Mood : Sassy, Seductive, Tongue-in-Cheek
MORE DETAILS49. Teaching Third Grade from 'Ruthless'
Range : Eb3-B4
Style : Midtempo (Contemporary)
Mood : Comedic, Sarcastic
MORE DETAILS50. The Dark I Know Well from 'Spring Awakening'
Style: Midtempo (contemporary) Mood: Dramatic, Story-Telling51. Just Around The Corner from 'The Addams Family'
Style: Midtempo Mood: Dark comedy, Satirical, Awkwardly inspirationalYou Might Like: 15 Great Contemporary Roles For Altos
Have a good alto audition song to add to the list? Leave a comment below...
[post_title] => 51 Fresh Audition Songs For Altos [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => 51-audition-songs-for-altos [to_ping] => [pinged] => https://theatrenerds.com/audition_songs/change/ https://theatrenerds.com/audition_songs/just-want-star/ https://theatrenerds.com/audition_songs/its-a-business/ https://theatrenerds.com/audition_songs/ladies/ https://theatrenerds.com/audition_songs/wrong-people-travel/ https://theatrenerds.com/audition_songs/kiss-her-now/ https://theatrenerds.com/audition_songs/im-going-back/ https://theatrenerds.com/audition_songs/kiss-of-the-spider-woman/ https://theatrenerds.com/audition_songs/if-he-walked-into-my-life/ https://theatrenerds.com/audition_songs/teaching-third-grade/ https://theatrenerds.com/audition_songs/stop-time/ https://theatrenerds.com/audition_songs/the-cake-i-had/ [post_modified] => 2018-10-17 01:12:09 [post_modified_gmt] => 2018-10-17 05:12:09 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=11362 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 48 [filter] => raw ) [24] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 11358 [post_author] => 7 [post_date] => 2017-09-13 09:52:50 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-09-13 13:52:50 [post_content] => There’s no denying that technology and theatre have a complicated relationship. While some shows, such as “Dear Evan Hansen” and “The Encounter,” have embraced social media, others have sworn against it. Let’s be real, no one wants to get Patti LuPoned during a show (yes, it’s a verb now). So, then, what role does technology and social media play in theatre, both in the audience and onstage? Once again, the answer to that question is complicated. However, social media and marketing expert Tony Howell thankfully took the time to speak with me on the matter and discuss how producers can begin to embrace technological advances while still maintaining the integrity and beauty of live theatre. “I think it has a place in certain pieces,” Howell said of social media. “I don't think it needs to take over, but I would like to see stories that include it because it’s part of the world we live in now.” Recently, social media has been brought to the stage, most notably in the 2017 Tony Award winner for Best Musical, “Dear Evan Hansen.” But how can the audience use social media without interrupting the performance? [caption id="attachment_11360" align="alignnone" width="768"] Ben Platt in 'Dear Evan Hansen'[/caption]
“What I would encourage in terms of best practices is that it’s totally great to take a picture of the procedium and playbill,” he said. “Another great thing is to leave a review. After you see something, review the piece yourself, go to their Facebook page and share your thoughts, especially when they’re positive.”
When it comes to producers’ and marketers’ use of social media, Howell said the most effective method to getting people to share their experiences of the show is to have a step and repeat in the lobby of the theatre. This way, everyone who comes to the show can take a picture and post it online.
Social media is undeniably a great tool to be used before or after a show. However, surfing social media and the internet during a performance has recently become far too regular. Rest assured, theatre fans, this isn’t just a Broadway problem, but a global one.
“I think we will see a global problem of attention spans and people disconnecting from the real world around them to engage with the virtual world around them, but I don’t think it’s limited to theatre,” Howell said. “We see our union and industry fighting against it, saying that live theatre needs to be live.”
However, Howell hopes that embracing social media within limits will actually bring great changes to the Great White Way.
“What I think will happen with Broadway and theatre, I hope, is that we’ll be able to share our art form with audiences and more people through digital with the expectation that if you want the premium live experience, you buy a ticket,” he said. “I would like to see more digital integration where we get to be a part of the show. Word-of-mouth marketing is the No. 1 form of marketing because it doesn’t cost you anything, and people trust their family and friends’ recommendations. I think producers are hurting themselves by not encouraging social media. I just think that we have to write the rules and teach etiquette.”
What about onstage? Could social media be incorporated more frequently into shows themselves, like “Hit List” from the hit NBC show “Smash?” (Yes, it’s a hit in my heart.)
Howell warns that it may remove people from the story, since taking a second look at their phone may cause audiences to then surf the web or check email. However, in the right context, with limitations, it could potentially work.
Aside from within the theatres themselves, Howell has also seen how social media has started to have an impact on casting decisions.
“I see it being involved in casting decisions, but I think people make the mistake of looking at 10,000 followers versus the actual engagement rate,” he said. “So someone with a hundred followers and a higher engagement could actually bring more results to the ticket process than someone with a bunch of spambots that they bought from Russia.”
Frankly, it’s 2017. Technology and social media are bound to start to find their place within theatre, whether onstage or offstage. While this does present some potential negatives to the experience of live theatre we’ve come to know and love, with the right rules and guidance, it could have a profound effect on the art form.
[post_title] => What Role Does Social Media Play In The Theatre?
[post_excerpt] =>
[post_status] => publish
[comment_status] => open
[ping_status] => open
[post_password] =>
[post_name] => role-social-media-play-theatre
[to_ping] =>
[pinged] =>
[post_modified] => 2017-09-13 17:51:26
[post_modified_gmt] => 2017-09-13 21:51:26
[post_content_filtered] =>
[post_parent] => 0
[guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=11358
[menu_order] => 0
[post_type] => post
[post_mime_type] =>
[comment_count] => 2
[filter] => raw
)
[25] => WP_Post Object
(
[ID] => 11348
[post_author] => 714
[post_date] => 2017-09-12 09:33:03
[post_date_gmt] => 2017-09-12 13:33:03
[post_content] => It seems that everyone in theatre has a side gig, side hustle, side hobby or day job. What if your non-theatre experiences actual could help your career in the theatre? Wouldn’t that be a perfect world? If you look for unconventional ways to further your career, your next job might be just around the corner. Here are some ways that your time outside the theatre can be time well spent:
1. Website Design
It’s vital for every working actor to have a website. Most actor websites have headshots, resumes, dance reels, press articles and other information that help you sell your brand as an actor.
2. Photography
Having quality photography skills is always helpful in the theatre. You gain knowledge about what looks best on camera, so you don’t make rookie mistakes with your own headshots. Plus, you can earn extra cash on the side by taking other actors’ headshots or productions’ publicity photos.
3. Sewing
This is a must. From broken shoes to ripping your pants 10 minutes before curtain, you should always be prepared with a small sewing kit to help repair any emergency costume problems. Plus, if costumes need alterations, you are prepared to volunteer to help. Your friends will thank you!4. Yoga
It’s not just about being flexible and strong, although that is a fantastic result of doing yoga. Most importantly, yoga trains you to have control of your breath. Keeping focused on your breathing and diaphragm coordination can do wonders to help you sing an aria or deliver a lengthy monologue. Learning how to listen to your body and how it moves is very important for actors. Remember, your body is an instrument. And speaking of instruments...
5. Musical Instruments
Having the ability to play a few musical instruments will only help your chances of getting cast. From the musicals “Once” to “Bandstand,” you never know when you will have to play a musically talented character. Gaining knowledge about music will only help you in your musical theatre endeavors. Plus, you can get a lot of side gigs as an accompanist for your fellow actors or yourself.
6. Makeup
If you find the makeup aisle dangerous for your wallet, you might be able to put that passion to use. Experiment with different types of stage makeup, and one day, you could find yourself getting a job as the makeup artist for a show. With so many fantasy shows such as “Shrek” currently playing in regional and community theaters across the country, the theatre needs people with a knack for makeup.
7. Cooking
Eating well is very important to keeping yourself in top shape as an actor. Know how to eat the best foods to power through your two-show day. Study what makes you feel good and what keeps your voice healthy and strong. This knowledge will give your acting career more longevity if you remember to always take care of yourself. Make being healthy part of the job!
What are some special skills that helped you get a role or a job in the theatre? Let us know in the comments below...
You may also like:7 Life Skills Every Theatre Kid Will Learn
8 Life-Winning Skills All Thespians Possess
[post_title] => These Hobbies And Special Skills Will Help Your Theatrical Career [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => hobbies-special-skills-will-help-theatrical-career [to_ping] => [pinged] => https://theatrenerds.com/rock-your-performer-website-with-these-8-must-haves/ https://theatrenerds.com/life-skills-every-theatre-kid-will-learn/ [post_modified] => 2024-10-12 08:31:40 [post_modified_gmt] => 2024-10-12 12:31:40 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=11348 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [26] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 11327 [post_author] => 736 [post_date] => 2017-09-11 09:09:36 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-09-11 13:09:36 [post_content] =>Costumes help make a character, but in some shows, the costume itself has become so iconic that no future production can be repeated without the specific look. These costumes immediately define the musical they reference, even when they’re out of the context of the show.
The following are our top eight musical theatre costumes that have become absolutely classic over the years:1. Dolly Levi’s Harmonia Gardens Dress in ‘Hello Dolly!’
With the costume by Freddy Wittop, Dolly Levi (originally played by Carol Channing) descends the staircase into Harmonica Gardens in a red sequin gown, turning heads and winning the hearts of everyone she comes into contact with.
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=iVh9zjf0Tww
2. Barbra Streisand’s Fanny Brice Sailor Suit in ‘Funny Girl’
This sailor suit, designed by Irene Sharaff and worn by Barbra Streisand in both the musical and movie versions of “Funny Girl,” has been repeated time and again in many productions of this beloved musical. It has also become a standard piece for Streisand’s appearances and an iconic representation of both the star and the show on TV and film. Just look at Lea Michele’s ensemble when she won the part of playing Fanny Brice in “Glee.”
3. Cassie’s Red Dress in ‘A Chorus Line’
Cassie’s red dress, originally designed by Theoni V. Aldredge and worn by Donna McKechnie in the original Broadway production of “A Chorus Line,” speaks volumes about her character’s fiery spirit and her need to stand out and be noticed. This dress has been recreated over and over in all productions since.
Watch this dress move and Cassie (Charlotte d’Amboise) sing and dance her heart out in “The Music and the Mirror” from the Broadway revival of the show.
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=tOWh6LSHa48
4. Annie’s Red Dress in ‘Annie’
[caption id="attachment_11332" align="alignnone" width="700"] Credit 2012 JIM LEE PHOTO[/caption]
Originally appearing as a comic strip in the late 19th century, “Annie” became a musical when Charles Strouse, Martin Charnin and Thomas Meehan collaborated on it in 1976. Aldredge took the inspiration from the comic in creating Annie’s finale red dress, catapulting the look to girls everywhere.
5. Dorothy Gale’s Blue-and-White-Checkered Dress in ‘The Wizard of Oz’
This dress became iconic when Dorothy is whisked away to Oz and it magically goes from black and white to living color. Like “Annie” and “A Chorus Line,” a production of this show can’t be done without recreating this look. The original designer, Adrian Adolph Greenberg took his design inspiration from the book series itself. Check out the original covers of the series to see the resemblance.
6. Elphaba’s Costume and Makeup in ‘Wicked’
Speaking of “The Wizard of Oz,” the Wicked Witch of the West lives on eight shows a week in “Wicked” on Broadway, as well as in other productions around the world. Her green skin is just as iconic as the black witch’s outfit — and, not to mention, an ordeal to put on for any actress who plays this character.
Check out this video, which gives you an inside look at actress Rachel Tucker becoming Elphaba.
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=01GGW2QRU1c
7. Anna Leonowens’ Ballgown in ‘The King and I’
Anna’s gown, originally designed by Sharaff for the movie version of “The King and I” has become iconic — not for its color, but for the fullness of the skirt. The skirt itself literally takes on a life of its own as Anna is being waltzed around the stage during “Shall We Dance?”
Here is a great video of Anna (Kelli O’Hara) being quick-changed into the dress at the Tony Awards by some fabulous dressers.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G4OcqWxsKL0
8. Belle’s Yellow Gown in ‘Beauty and the Beast’
[caption id="attachment_11339" align="alignnone" width="1200"] Dress Designer Credit: Mela Hoyt-Heydon for 3-D Theatrical’s 2016 production of Beauty and the Beast.[/caption]
Belle’s yellow gown became infamous in the animated version of this beloved musical. Of course, whenever you attend a production, you’ll certainly find yourself surrounded by many little girls dressed up like this princess in a replica of this gown.
Here is a great video about the creation of Belle’s costumes for the most recent movie version, starring Emma Watson.
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=M95NsqegWIA
What are some of your favorite iconic musical theatre costumes? Let us know in the comments below...
[post_title] => The 8 Most Iconic Costumes In Musical Theatre [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => 8-most-iconic-costumes-musical-theatre [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2017-09-11 17:00:17 [post_modified_gmt] => 2017-09-11 21:00:17 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=11327 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 11 [filter] => raw ) [27] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 11183 [post_author] => 1020 [post_date] => 2017-09-10 10:18:12 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-09-10 14:18:12 [post_content] =>
We all know and love the movie and musical hit, Little Shop of Horrors, but what we don't all know is whether we're sweet Audrey or sweet-talking Audrey II. Take this quiz to find out!
[post_title] => Quiz: Are You Audrey Or Audrey II?
[post_excerpt] =>
[post_status] => publish
[comment_status] => closed
[ping_status] => closed
[post_password] =>
[post_name] => quiz-audrey-audrey-ii
[to_ping] =>
[pinged] =>
[post_modified] => 2019-05-22 18:52:54
[post_modified_gmt] => 2019-05-22 22:52:54
[post_content_filtered] =>
[post_parent] => 0
[guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?post_type=snax_quiz&p=11183
[menu_order] => 0
[post_type] => snax_quiz
[post_mime_type] =>
[comment_count] => 0
[filter] => raw
)
[28] => WP_Post Object
(
[ID] => 11272
[post_author] => 440
[post_date] => 2017-09-08 12:55:47
[post_date_gmt] => 2017-09-08 16:55:47
[post_content] => There is a time in everyone’s life when they can look back and see all the moments that led them to become the person they are today. I am no exception. I can identify exactly what led me to teaching, what led me to become a writer, and the stepping stones to my lifelong vocation as a theatre lover. All the signs were there, even in childhood. No one could tell you better than the people who watched me blossom into the theatre nerd I am today: my family.
Here are nine times my family knew I was destined to become a theatre nerd:
1. My parents spent an entire summer listening to my sister and I sing the entire soundtrack from “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” on our numerous four-hour drives to the cottage every weekend. We would always fight over who would get the only female singing role and see who could belt louder during “Close Every Door.” The following summer, my father insisted the cassette tape had mysteriously worn out.
2. Family friends came to visit once, and I coerced them into being a part of an elaborate production of the musical numbers from “Pocahontas,” staged in my basement. Our costumes included a dress I made from a burlap sack and an unfortunate selection of vests I owned (give me a break, it was the ‘90s). A baby carriage doubled as the canoe in “Just Around the Riverbend,” and my sister was pushed around in it while using a broom as a paddle. The others held up a blue bedsheet that acted as the river while also hiding the wheels on the stroller. Needless to say, the show opened and closed the same afternoon.
3. My first crush was Lt. Joe Cable in the movie-musical “South Pacific.” We spent a month one summer visiting my father’s aunt in Prince Edward Island. She lived in the tiniest town, where the video store doubled as the gas station and convenience store. They had five kid-friendly rentals available: four Rodgers and Hammerstein movie musicals and a Shirley Temple flick. I watched a lot of “South Pacific” that summer.
4. I saw “Wicked” for the first time as a teenager when the touring cast came to Toronto. I loved the show so much that I bought the CD soundtrack afterward and became obsessed. After discovering iron-on transfer sheets for the printer, I bought a plain tote bag and ironed a print-out of the musical poster on the front of it. I got strange looks from the cool kids when I carried it to class, but to the theatre and music kids, my bag was hot. I walked into those arts classes with my bag like Tyra Banks on a catwalk. Yeah, you know it.
5. My family owned a camcorder, and I loved filming music videos and fake reality shows with my friends. They were works of art, with synchronized dancing, poorly chosen hairstyles involving far too many butterfly clips, baggy neon wind pants and crop tops we created by folding up the bottoms of our tank tops and tucking them underneath, just like Britney. I still have some of those videos and recently joked about showing them at my theatre friend’s wedding. She threatened to kill me if I ever showed them in public.
6. My parents put me and my older sister in charge of babysitting my little brother one Saturday afternoon while they were out. My brother ended up running into a wall and getting a big bump on his head because we stole his stuffed animal and made him chase us around the house to get it back. My parents were livid. We were supposed to be the older, responsible sisters. Most kids would be grounded or have their television privileges revoked, but we had our theatre tickets taken away. A friend had given our family free tickets to see “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” the following weekend. My parents gave the tickets away to my aunt, and I was crushed. We did get to see the musical a few months later, but I always remembered how I would have preferred to lose the television.
7. I essentially pestered one of my middle school teachers into directing a school play. Extracurricular activities in the arts were hard to come by where I grew up. To my surprise, I did not get the lead role. Gutted, I withdrew from the production entirely in true dramatic fashion. When my mother finally convinced me quitting was not the mature thing to do, I crawled back with my tail between my legs and took the only job that was still available, leading the choir. So, what I imagined to be my big moment as a star was not quite as I pictured. My theatrical debut was not even onstage, but rather on the floor to the left of it.
8. In my youth, I had a habit of dramatic, huffy exits followed by the slamming of my bedroom door whenever I had a disagreement with anyone in my family. After one particular set of fits, my mother had my father remove my bedroom door from the hinges and put it in the basement. Shrewd move, lady, but I could play that game. I proceeded to sing at the top of my lungs for the entire house to enjoy. This went on for about a week before the door was returned.
9. For two years, I forced my mother to let me attend a local theatre camp for three weeks in the summer. My second summer, they were putting on a production of “Alice in Wonderland,” and I was hell-bent on playing Alice. Much to my disappointment, the part went to a boy, and the character was renamed “Alex.” Instead, I got the part of the Queen of Hearts, who only appears in the second act. She is supposed to end up with a cake getting smashed in her face, which our director decided would be fake. However, I wanted to Daniel Day Lewis the shit out of that part and insisted the week before the show that the cake be real for each production. The director eventually gave in. The cake was smashed, I acted my heart out and soaked up the cheers and laughter as icing and cake ran down my face. I worked at that camp every summer after for seven years.
These are only a few of the charming anecdotes my family loves to regale my prospective mates with at holiday dinners. Jokes on them, though, because I expect these stories will provide excellent material for my future memoir, which will obviously skyrocket me to fame and later become a major motion picture. Does anyone know what Anna Kendrick’s schedule looks like in the future? I’ll have her people call my people.
Were there moments you knew you were also destined to become a theatre nerd? Let us know in the comments below...
[post_title] => 9 Times My Family Knew I'd Grow Up To Be A Theatre Nerd [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => 9-times-family-knew-id-grow-theatre-nerd [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2017-09-08 18:12:47 [post_modified_gmt] => 2017-09-08 22:12:47 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=11272 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 1 [filter] => raw ) [29] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 9494 [post_author] => 736 [post_date] => 2017-09-06 10:16:48 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-09-06 14:16:48 [post_content] => When deciding it’s time to mount the school musical, there are literally hundreds to choose from. Here are nine tips that can help you determine what might be the right fit for you:1. Current Interests
What are your students’ current interests, musical preferences and hobbies? Use these as a guide to pinpoint musicals that fall along a similar genre. You want students to be excited about performing in a musical because they can find some relation to it, whether it’s based on their love of pop music (with a show such as “Rent”), their love of movies (with shows such as “Hairspray,” “Footloose” and “Legally Blonde”) or even their love of Disney (with musicals such as “High School Musical,” “The Little Mermaid” and “Beauty and the Beast”).
2. School Curriculum
Choosing a musical that corresponds with the subject matter currently being studied will not only enhance your students’ interest and knowledge on the subject itself, but it will give many students a reason to see the show as well. Whether it involves American history (with shows such as “The Civil War,” “Ragtime” and “1776”), world history (with musicals such as “Cabaret” and “Evita”) or current reading lists (with shows such as “The Secret Garden,” “Yours, Anne” and “Peter Pan”), it will certainly make the subject matter something the students will remember for a lifetime.
3. Talent Pool
Keep in mind your available acting talent. For example, do you have more boys than girls or vice versa? Do you have great singers and/or those with dance training? Try to choose musicals that meet their strengths and highlights the students you know want to participate.
Great school musicals for those with skilled singing and/or dancing talents are “Thoroughly Modern Millie,” “Grease” and “A Chorus Line.” On the other hand, musicals such as “How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying” and “The Wizard of Oz” are great choices for musicals that can involve students with less-trained singing voices but still have plenty of meaty acting roles.
There are also several all-male and all-female musicals to choose from, should you need to consider those. Great choices are “Nunsense,” “Nunsense A-Men” (male version) and “Beehive the Musical.”
4. Cost
It’s imperative to keep your budget in mind when choosing the appropriate school musical, as costs add up quickly. Don’t fret. Whether your budget is large or small, there is an appropriate show for you. For bigger budgets, choose more spectacle-based musicals such as “Annie,” “Oliver” and “Hello, Dolly!” For smaller budgets, look at shows such as “The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee” and “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown,” which require less focus on big sets and elaborate costumes that can quickly eat money.
5. Technical Talent Pool
6. Audience
Remember to keep your audience base in mind. In order to keep the musical theatre program alive, you need to continue to have your audience come in to support it. Because of this, it’s important to consider whether your show is something they’d enjoy and can bring friends and family to. If you are unsure, try to do an audience poll of several options on the school social media page. Great audience-pleasers are “The Sound of Music,” “The Pajama Game” and “Shrek.”
7. Instrument Talent Pool
Does your school have an orchestra or band that can play the music? Will you hire musicians? Or, if you will use tracks, do you have a good and reliable sound system and someone to run the board? It’s important to take this facet into consideration to make sure you are serving the score of the show and making the music enjoyable for the audience and easy to follow for the performers.
A sung-through musical such as “Les Misérables” would be a great choice if you’re planning to use tracks, as long as you have an experienced sound person to run the soundboard and keep up with the cues. Shows with lavish scores such as “Oklahoma!” and “Fiddler on the Roof” work well to perform with the school orchestra and band.
There are also plenty of musicals you can do with just a piano or small trio of musicians. “My Way,” “Songs from a New World” and “Snoopy” are good options.
8. Learning
Performing in a musical is a way for students to learn and grow, not only as performers, but also as individuals and team players — whether it be singing in a new register, learning how to do basic simple tap steps or choreography, harmonizing or even learning to take cues and work together in an ensemble-based show. Don’t hesitate to pick a musical that students can take something from to use in the future. There are some especially great ensemble-based shows such as “Seussical” and “Little Women” where everyone has an equal share of stage time and there is an intense amount of ensemble work.
9. Space
Are you working in a theatre/auditorium setting? Is it a proscenium, thrust or in the round? Are you working in a black box? Outside? In a classroom? Keep the location of where you’ll be presenting the musical in mind when making your decision. Having a small musical take place in a large auditorium may not work as well as doing a bigger, more lavish musical. And, if you are doing a musical in a classroom, pick something that lends itself to a smaller, more intimate space with minimal sets and costumes. Great examples of musicals for any type of space are “Cinderella” and “Oklahoma!” Small musicals that work well in an intimate atmosphere are “The Fantasticks” and “Godspell.”
Tell us which school musicals you have chosen and why...
[post_title] => 9 Tips For Choosing The Perfect School Musical [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => 9-tips-for-choosing-perfect-school-musical [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2017-09-06 10:16:48 [post_modified_gmt] => 2017-09-06 14:16:48 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=9494 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 4 [filter] => raw ) [30] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 9471 [post_author] => 440 [post_date] => 2017-09-05 09:33:18 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-09-05 13:33:18 [post_content] => When I saw “High School Musical 2” for the first time, I was disappointed because one of my favorite characters, enthusiastic drama teacher Ms. Darbus, was largely absent from the sequel. By the time the third movie came around, the quirky teacher had returned to provide her usual comic relief, with a side of wisdom. While the films don’t see Ms. Darbus doing a lot of traditional teaching, she delivers her lessons in the form of helpful tips and encouraging her students to explore the arts and find their passion. She assures them they can stretch beyond where they feel their capabilities lie. Ms. Darbus shows creating the environment for learning is often just as important as the teaching material itself.With that in mind, here are 11 tips for teaching student drama:
1. Start With the Basics
Take a tip from Julie Andrews and “start at the very beginning, a very good place to start.” Even if you are teaching an upper-year class, it’s always a good idea to spend some time at the outset reviewing the basics. Think about the building blocks of being an actor, like voice, character, reading a script and moving about the stage, then go from there.
I always start with warming up and the importance of preparing the body and voice, as I find most students don’t realize it’s crucial to warm up before performing, even just for class.
2. Prioritize Quality Over Quantity When It Comes to Feedback
Positive reinforcement goes a long way. Always begin with the positives and ensure you find something to praise your students for each time. Keeping students encouraged will help them be open to feedback. When giving constructive criticism, stick to only one or two corrections at a time — otherwise, you risk overwhelming your recipients.
3. Find the Passion
Where do your students excel? Find their strength and help them develop it. Find ways for them to share their talents in the group setting, outside of acting. If they are also a talented artist, have them design sets or create posters for performances. If they are very organized, let them arrange the setup of the backstage area. The more they feel like they have a special and important place in the class, the more they will want to be there. No one is good at everything, and there is always room to stretch and grow beyond their comfort zone. However, confidence to do that will come from first finding where they shine.
4. Keep Your Focus Areas Narrow
Each class or week should have its own focus. Throwing too many concepts at students at once will lead to confusion. Mastering a skill requires it to be taught, reviewed and then practiced. Students can then move forward and continue building on those skills. Taking things slowly and having a theme for each class will ensure maximum absorption and avoid frustration for both you and your students.
5. Challenge Them
It is important to have your students challenge themselves, but remember, each student is different. For some, just getting up to speak in front of a small group of peers in their class is going to be a huge challenge. Others might be looking to challenge themselves by moving into a professional audition process. Have students create individualized goals you can help them work toward. Encouraging self-evaluation with progress is a positive life skill that is worth reinforcing.
6. De-stigmatize Failure
A common fear you will encounter among students is the fear of failing, especially in front of others. Not every student who comes to drama class will be outgoing and eager. Stage fright will pop up from time to time. Encourage bravery and consistently applaud each effort, whether it was successful or not. For some, just standing in front of others is a huge step. Let them know you are not expecting perfection, just their personal best. Keep the room a positive and safe space for creativity and failure to coincide together as tools for learning.
7. Slow and Steady
When teaching beginners, go slow when giving each instruction. Don’t assume they will know basics, particularly with terminology, such as stage right and stage left. Be sure to stop intermittently to see if anyone has questions.
8. Model Behavior
Getting up yourself and giving an example of the skill you are trying to teach will not only make you more relatable to your students, but it will also provide them with some confidence seeing you go in front of everyone and demonstrate the skill first.
9. Encourage Participation
Again, the fear of failure may see some students hanging back and avoiding participation. For the first few classes, avoid large group presentations while they are still getting to know one another and you. Allowing the students to work in and present to smaller groups at the start will give them an opportunity to get comfortable with the class and boost their confidence. You can then build toward the large group setting with less resistance.
10. Take the Classroom Outside
Try to give opportunities to learn from more than just yourself. Bring in a speaker or group, take them to a performance, participate in a workshop, show a performance DVD or organize a backstage tour. Seeing the arts in action will make it more applicable to your students.
11. Go Beyond Acting
There is more to drama than just being onstage. You may have a budding stage manager in your class, but they don’t know what that job is or what it entails. Give your students the opportunity to learn about as many of the different facets of working in the theatre as you can.
In the words of East High’s enigmatic educator Ms. Darbus, “The stage can be a wonderful partner in the process of self-discovery.” So, whether you teach in a school, a community theatre or an extracurricular program, be encouraged knowing the work you do to create opportunities in the arts for students of all ages is an important and life-changing endeavor. To all those teaching arts out there, we salute you.
What are your tips and advice for drama teachers? Let us know in the comments below...
[post_title] => 11 Tips For Teaching High School Drama [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => 11-tips-teaching-high-school-drama [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2017-09-05 09:33:18 [post_modified_gmt] => 2017-09-05 13:33:18 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=9471 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 1 [filter] => raw ) [31] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 10856 [post_author] => 11 [post_date] => 2017-09-03 11:02:24 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-09-03 15:02:24 [post_content] => [viralQuiz id=56]Try Another Quiz: Build An Ice Cream Sundae To Reveal Which Movie Musical You Should Watch
[post_title] => Quiz: Pick Your Favorite Foods & We'll Guess Your Favorite Musical [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => quiz-pick-your-favorite-foods-well-guess-your-favorite-musical [to_ping] => [pinged] => https://theatrenerds.com/quiz-build-an-ice-cream-sundae-to-reveal-which-movie-musical-you-should-watch/ [post_modified] => 2018-09-29 12:08:16 [post_modified_gmt] => 2018-09-29 16:08:16 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=10856 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 16 [filter] => raw ) [32] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 11174 [post_author] => 1016 [post_date] => 2017-08-31 11:05:49 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-08-31 15:05:49 [post_content] => Picture this: I’m sitting in a circle with some other actors after a particularly long and stressful rehearsal. Our senior musical has just been announced, and we’re discussing which roles we’d like to play. When I express interest in the lead, people stare at me as though I’ve said I won’t be doing the show at all. “You could never be the leading man. You’re his funny friend,” one of my friends says. At the moment, I wasn’t sure why her words hit me as hard as they did, but they stuck with me for a while. Was I not talented or handsome enough to play the leading man? Was I just not trying hard enough to suppress my Cosmo Brown and let my inner Don Lockwood shine? Was funny all I could do? Auditions finally came around, and I was worried. I knew every actor would be reading for the romantic male lead, but something in me told me I had to go in for it too. When I got to the piano and told our music director what I’d be singing, he asked me if I was sure. I wasn’t. I had been so concerned with how I was perceived by others that I didn’t even think about being original and auditioning with the comedic lead’s song. I changed my song right then and there, and landed what became one of my all-time favorite comedic roles. In fact, it was that role that showed me how fun it is to be a character actor. Now I’ve decided to share some of those reasons with you:1. You Learn to Laugh at Yourself
If you can look at yourself in a mirror while wearing a crazy wig and false teeth and start laughing, you’ll learn to do the same when you have a bad hair day or find a zit.
2. Costumes, Costumes, Costumes (and Makeup)
In the same vein, the costumes and makeup are often the best part of playing a character role. Who can deny loving a neon tuxedo or particularly well-articulated stage makeup? Plus, they make for great backstage selfies.
3. The One-Liners
Maybe your dialogue doesn’t drive the plot as much as another character’s does, but it’ll certainly make the audience laugh. You might not get that stage kiss you’ve been pining for, but you can certainly insist that Courtneys everywhere take their breaks.
4. It’s an Exercise in Self-Control
More often than not, the lines and lyrics written for character roles can make us laugh through read-throughs and even rehearsals. The discipline required to know how to make others laugh without laughing yourself is difficult to attain but so valuable once mastered.
5. You Get Newfound Skills
It isn’t uncommon for a character role to require a specific skill, such as tap dancing, an accent or even slight-of-hand magic. The great thing is that if you land a role and don’t yet have those skills, you’ll have time to learn them and perfect them before opening night. Then, you can add them to your resume!
6. The Music
I’ll admit, I might be biased, but character roles have some of the best songs in the musical theatre canon. “Guys and Dolls” wouldn’t be nearly as fun without “Bushel and a Peck,” and “The Music Man” would be missing something special if “Shipoopi!” was cut.
7. Variety
There are so many different kinds of character roles to take on. Perhaps you’ll play a bumbling con artist one week and an eccentric pirate the next. While every role is different, some archetypes require a more specific type than others. Embrace your flexibility and jump around between ages, accents and looks.
8. Playing the Villain
A great woman — Maleficent, played by Kristin Chenoweth — once sang, “Don’t you wanna be evil like me?” The villain can be the most exciting role in any show because of how heightened their emotions often are and how much draw they have over the audience. It’s always fun to embrace your dark side, even if it’s only for a few performances.
9. Stunt Choreography
Not every character roles requires stunt work, but the ones that do are a lot of fun. Every once in awhile, a character gets in a huge fight with another character and is thrown from a roof, or a group dance number will require you to learn how to do a back flip. These skills will dazzle audiences and come in handy later as well.
10. Every So Often, You’re Also the Romantic Lead
You don’t see this in every show, but sometimes, the comedic lead also gets to be the romantic lead. Think of Winnifred the Woebegone in “Once Upon a Mattress” or Leo Bloom in “The Producers.” They get some of the funniest lines in their respective shows and a ton of “aww” moments as well.
Opportunities for character actors are everywhere. Don’t shy away if you want to audition to play a zany senior citizen, a talking animal, a monster who lives under the bed or yes, even someone’s funny friend.
[post_title] => 10 Benefits Of Being A Character Actor
[post_excerpt] =>
[post_status] => publish
[comment_status] => open
[ping_status] => open
[post_password] =>
[post_name] => 10-benefits-character-actor
[to_ping] =>
[pinged] =>
[post_modified] => 2017-09-02 12:18:07
[post_modified_gmt] => 2017-09-02 16:18:07
[post_content_filtered] =>
[post_parent] => 0
[guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=11174
[menu_order] => 0
[post_type] => post
[post_mime_type] =>
[comment_count] => 2
[filter] => raw
)
[33] => WP_Post Object
(
[ID] => 11138
[post_author] => 736
[post_date] => 2017-08-28 11:19:33
[post_date_gmt] => 2017-08-28 15:19:33
[post_content] => If you’re not feeling the urge to take a bite out of the Big Apple, you can still have a great theatre career in many other cities within the United States. The regional market is thriving, so if you’re considering laying down your hat and stepping into the footlights, check out these five cities:
1. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, the city of brotherly love and the home of Rocky, has a huge theatre scene for professionals and amateurs alike. It is also the home of the iconic Walnut Street Theatre, the oldest continually operating theatre in America. And, with a slew of Actors Equity Association houses and community theatres, dinner theatres, a fringe festival and the prestigious Barrymore Awards held once a year to honor those in this bustling theatre community, it’s certainly a market where artists thrive.
As another plus, according to a recent article in the Philly Voice, it’s also known as a city where most acting gigs pay, even for amateur/community theatre jobs.In addition, the Philadelphia tourism market provides terrific opportunities for actors. There’s great potential to have a supplementary gig as a living history actor or tour guide.
As an added bonus, there is easily accessible public transportation to practically everywhere within the city limits, which means you don’t need to invest in a car. The city itself is even within a few hours to New York City, so you could visit if you wanted.
Learn more about the Philly theatre scene on Theatre Philadelphia.
2. Chicago, Illinois
This city has five Tony Award-winning regional houses, including Steppenwolf and the Goodman, along with smaller surrounding suburban areas with theatre companies creating new and experimental works and reviving old favorites. Here, an artist can certainly find his or her niche. Chicago is a market where many shows at the prestigious venues transfer to Broadway, so you’d even have the possibility of moving with a show born here to New York City.
While you will have to deal with the cold Chicago winters, you can up your comedy skills by taking classes at Second City or delve into the TV/film realm, since many episodes and films shoot here.
Learn more about the Chicago Theatre Scene on Chicago Plays.
3. Washington, D.C.
While this city is home to the nation’s capitol, it’s also home to many theatrical opportunities and amazing venues. The prestigious Kennedy Center, Folger Theatre (the first Elizabethan-style theatre built in North America) and Ford’s Theatre (the site of President Lincoln’s assassination) are just a few spots you can check out if you want to be a serious theatre actor. In addition, there is a huge regional scene, experimental theatre, touring companies, fringe festivals and more.
Learn more about what the theatre in this city has to offer on DC Theatre Scene.
4. Boston, Massachusetts
Boston has a thriving theatre scene that can make any performer feel artistically fulfilled. Current top-notch theatres include the Huntington Theatre Company and the American Repertory Theatre in nearby Cambridge. “Waitress,” “Natasha, Pierre and the Great COmet of 1812” and “Finding Neverland” were presented at the A.R.T. before they arrived on Broadway.
Boston has a rich history, a driveable distance to New York City, accoladed performing arts universities and Ivy League institutions, as well as a bustling city and quiet surrounding suburbs. With all of this, it could make this the right actor market for you!
Learn more about the Boston theatre scene at Stage Source.
5. Minneapolis, Minnesota
Minneapolis has the second most theatre seats per capita in the nation and ranks as the fifth most “creatively vital” city in the country, according to a 2015 report by the Western States Arts Foundation. This makes it a great place to pursue a career as a performer.
The Guthrie is one of the most esteemed theatres in this city, but there are also many other theatres, as well as theatre festivals and many other types of performance opportunities. Minneapolis is a place to certainly consider making your mark.
You can find more information about this theatre scene from Minnesota Playlist.
Are you thinking about pursuing a career in any of these cities? Let us know in the comments below...
[post_title] => 5 Cities Outside Of NYC Where You Can Pursue A Career In Theatre [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => 5-cities-outside-nyc-can-pursue-career-theatre [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2017-08-28 11:19:33 [post_modified_gmt] => 2017-08-28 15:19:33 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=11138 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 2 [filter] => raw ) [34] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 11135 [post_author] => 714 [post_date] => 2017-08-25 09:45:13 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-08-25 13:45:13 [post_content] => “I don’t sing in the shower, I perform,” my fellow thespian friend said at rehearsal one night. I laughed out loud and responded sarcastically, “Oh, I’m sure your roommates love that.” My friend leaned in close as if she were about to reveal one of her deepest, darkest secrets, and said, “My roommate hates ‘Wicked,’ so I make sure to belt out the end of ‘Defying Gravity’ really loud if I know she’s home.” Who knew musical theatre could be used as a strange form of torture? Luckily, singing showtunes doesn’t count as a form of cruel and unusual punishments, so sing away with these six songs:1. ‘Tomorrow’ from ‘Annie’
This one is at the top of the list for a reason. One surefire way to torment those around you is singing this overdone screamfest with the same amount of passion as a young Andrea McArdle. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eCV7MbTtjAY2. ‘Oklahoma!’ from ‘Oklahoma!”
“And the land we belong to is grand! And then we saaaayyyyy NO PLEASE! STOP! WHY!” You’re not “doin’ fine” if you think this a Top 40 hit. It’s tolerable during the show, but humming this song while you lather, rinse and repeat is a little coo-coo ka-choo. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZbrnXl2gO_k3. ‘One More Angel in Heaven’ from ‘Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat’
Once upon a time, Andrew Lloyd Webber tried to write a hoedown — long story short, it’s a fun dance number, but it has the power to get stuck in your head for months on end. The brothers are singing a song to their father about how Joseph died unexpectedly, when in reality, the brothers sold him into slavery. They’re pure evil! No wonder the song is so bad! Also, any musical number with sudden, unexplained southern accents can’t be a good thing. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B0lJV4vOkAQ4. ‘Shipoopi’ from ‘The Music Man’
The title says it all. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9Jj622vbrrU5. ‘Fugue for Tinhorns’ from ‘Guys and Dolls’
It’s a classic: three guys singing about horses in a horse race for no other reason than to show the audience they are going to watch a show about gambling. Although, if you were me, you spent the rest of the show trying to figure out why they kept mentioning Paul Revere. This one is bound to annoy those around you. For the best results, try singing all three parts at once. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BAIlVCStp3c6. 'Anything' from ‘Cats’
Or, better yet, just buy a funky leotard, throw on some cat ears and heavy makeup and dance around your house. Your roommates will hate it. I know this from personal experience. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m0xiS6dk5iwWhich showtunes make you cringe? Or better yet, what’s your guilty pleasure musical theatre song? Add yours to the list!
[post_title] => Torturing Your Roommates: The Most Annoying Showtunes To Sing In The Shower [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => torturing-roommates-most-annoying-showtunes-sing-shower [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2017-09-10 23:36:44 [post_modified_gmt] => 2017-09-11 03:36:44 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=11135 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 14 [filter] => raw ) [35] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 11120 [post_author] => 11 [post_date] => 2017-08-24 09:02:29 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-08-24 13:02:29 [post_content] => Our days of summer sun might be coming to an end but you don’t need to toss out that reading list quiiiiiite yet. Lucky for Theatre Nerds (more specifically “Hamilton” fans), there’s a new book hitting shelves this September based on the life of one Eliza Hamilton.There are seven things you need to know:
1. As you’d expect it’s all about Eliza Hamilton. WORK!
Susan Holloway Scott’s latest read speaks for itself. ‘I, ELIZA HAMILTON’ chronicles the life and impact of Alexander Hamilton’s leading lady. While the ten-dollar Found Father may be the centerpiece of our favorite musical, it’s no doubt that Eliza is a pretty epic heroine. This book sheds light on her complex marriage to George Washington’s right-hand man, as well as her extraordinary work in shaping our country.
2. Hamilton’s life is shown from another perspective.
There are two sides to every story. While A.Ham is certainly a key player in Scott’s book, his tale is told through the eyes of his closest companion. The Hamiltons’ relationship wasn’t exactly smooth sailing (remember that Reynolds Pamphlet?) and we’re down to see what Eliza had to say about all of this.
3. It’s all about an empowering (and real) woman.
Knowing every lyric to “Guns and Ships” is all good and fun, but it’s even better when we’re reminded that the Hamiltons were real people who helped create the world we live in today. Though this novel is historical fiction -- because even Susan Holloway Scott wasn’t in the room where it happened -- Eliza’s story is based on true events and showcases a powerful example of a real-life, fierce boss lady.
4. It’s historical fiction at its finest.
If marathoning “Downton Abbey” as you steep a steamy pot of tea isn’t your thing, don’t let the term “historical fiction” scare you off. It’s a genre that often gets a bad rap for being boring and kind of like a textbook from history class, but ‘I, ELIZA HAMILTON’ falls under this umbrella because it’s a fictionalized re-telling of a real human’s life. Sort of like that one musical Lin-Manuel Miranda wrote…
5. Susan Holloway Scott is QUEEN.
She has written books about a number of royals and historical figures: The Countess of Dorchester and King James II, The Dutchess of Portsmouth and King Charles II, Sarah Churchill and more. You can browse her books HERE.
6. It will remind you of your undying love for “Hamilton.”
You’re probably still obsessing over the entire soundtrack, but in case you needed reason to listen to “Burn” on repeat...
7. ‘I, ELIZA HAMILTON’ makes its debut just in time for fall!
Hitting bookshelves September 26, this read makes its arrival just in time for pumpkin spice lattes and all things autumn. Whether you tackled all of the books on your summer reading list or not, you won’t want to throw away your shot to read Mrs. Hamilton’s inspiring story.
Click HERE to pre-order your copy of ‘I, ELIZA HAMILTON’ now!
[post_title] => 7 Reasons 'I, ELIZA HAMILTON' Needs To Be On Your Reading List
[post_excerpt] =>
[post_status] => publish
[comment_status] => open
[ping_status] => open
[post_password] =>
[post_name] => 7-reasons-eliza-hamilton-needs-reading-list
[to_ping] =>
[pinged] =>
[post_modified] => 2017-08-24 15:00:15
[post_modified_gmt] => 2017-08-24 19:00:15
[post_content_filtered] =>
[post_parent] => 0
[guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=11120
[menu_order] => 0
[post_type] => post
[post_mime_type] =>
[comment_count] => 1
[filter] => raw
)
)
[post_count] => 36
[current_post] => -1
[before_loop] => 1
[in_the_loop] =>
[post] => WP_Post Object
(
[ID] => 12142
[post_author] => 440
[post_date] => 2017-10-25 09:35:55
[post_date_gmt] => 2017-10-25 13:35:55
[post_content] => My parents claim I came out of the womb singing and dancing. In my younger years, my siblings labeled me a drama queen. My friends both loved and hated me for making them be in every play I staged/video I directed/dance I choreographed.
It wasn’t until my mother enrolled me in a summer theatre camp that I finally found a tribe of people who were just like me. And it was nothing short of amazing.
Does any of this sound familiar?
Here are 16 signs that you should join a theatre group:
1. You long for the day in your life when a spontaneous musical number will break out.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8tJoIaXZ0rw2. Halloween is your favorite day of the year because you have an excuse to wear a costume and no one will think you’re a weirdo.
via GIPHY3. You couldn’t name the Founding Fathers for your high school history exam, but you can now.
via GIPHY4. You perform a one-person show every day while in the shower.
via GIPHY5. Most of your playlists consist of Broadway musical cast albums.
6. You have an awards acceptance speech that you’ve perfected over the years at the ready. You know, just in case.
7. Whenever you’re in a restaurant, you wish someone would jump onto a table and start a rousing rendition of “La Vie Boheme.”
8. You save and scrape together enough money to see every show that comes through where you live.
9. You always project your voice. How else will you be heard? Your friends constantly ask you why you’re shouting.
10. When someone says a line that happens to appear in the lyrics of a musical song, you feel the need to sing the next line — even if they have no clue what you’re talking about.
11. You love wearing makeup. Especially false eyelashes or heavy foundation.
12. Your wardrobe consists of black clothing and costumes.
13. Strangers often stare at you because you are singing loudly in your car. This does not embarrass you.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nck6BZga7TQ14. You create elaborate backstories in your head about strangers, friends and colleagues.
15. The musical episodes of TV shows are always your favorite. How can you go wrong with singing?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1DuR-P2r6Gk16. You know all of the words to “Seasons of Love” and “Defying Gravity.”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ntY5sL08vu8 From summer theatre camps and high school drama groups to college theatre productions and community theatre groups, there is an organization for every age. Or, if there isn’t one in your area, you could even consider starting a theatre group of your own! Don’t be afraid to seek out like-minded lovers of the stage. After all, you never know when a spontaneous musical number could break out. It’s essential to have the right people by your side and ready with jazz hands at a moment’s notice.Thought of a few signs that we missed? Let us know in the comments below...
[post_title] => 16 Signs You Should Join A Theatre Group [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => signs-you-should-join-a-theatre-group [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2017-10-26 10:14:34 [post_modified_gmt] => 2017-10-26 14:14:34 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=12142 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 2 [filter] => raw ) [comment_count] => 0 [current_comment] => -1 [found_posts] => 664 [max_num_pages] => 19 [max_num_comment_pages] => 0 [is_single] => [is_preview] => [is_page] => [is_archive] => 1 [is_date] => [is_year] => [is_month] => [is_day] => [is_time] => [is_author] => [is_category] => [is_tag] => [is_tax] => 1 [is_search] => [is_feed] => [is_comment_feed] => [is_trackback] => [is_home] => [is_privacy_policy] => [is_404] => [is_embed] => [is_paged] => 1 [is_admin] => [is_attachment] => [is_singular] => [is_robots] => [is_favicon] => [is_posts_page] => [is_post_type_archive] => [query_vars_hash:WP_Query:private] => 95d28424af3194764dcff21ab1090d0a [query_vars_changed:WP_Query:private] => 1 [thumbnails_cached] => [allow_query_attachment_by_filename:protected] => [stopwords:WP_Query:private] => [compat_fields:WP_Query:private] => Array ( [0] => query_vars_hash [1] => query_vars_changed ) [compat_methods:WP_Query:private] => Array ( [0] => init_query_flags [1] => parse_tax_query ) [query_cache_key:WP_Query:private] => wp_query:07275958b34a6bc643e390a43d7b7ed8:0.74510600 17913014660.00605500 1791301467 )Latest stories
-
-
914 Shares
10 Things That Every Thespian Can Relate To
-
-
-
-
-
324 Shares
Vocal Audition Advice From 5 NYC Pros
-
1.3k Shares7 Comments
Quiz: How Many Of These Classic Musicals Do You Know?
We’re all obsessed with the newest slew of shows to hit the Broadway stage, but can you keep up with this Golden Age of musical theatre quiz?
-
-
-
901 Shares8 Comments
Quiz: Tell Us Your Favorite Things About Fall And We’ll Tell You Your Favorite Show Tune
It’s October so why not?
-
-
-
643 Shares
Which School of Rock Kid Are You?
-
-
-
-
-
1.7k Shares3 Comments
Top 16 Contemporary Act 1 Finales
-
-
-
3.8k Shares
Quiz: Which Delta Nu Are You?
-
853 Shares2 Comments
‘Waitress’ DIY Pie Pillows
-
Popular
Nerdy
LOL
OMG
Angry
LOVE
10.6k Shares48 Comments
51 Fresh Audition Songs For Altos
-
656 Shares2 Comments
What Role Does Social Media Play In The Theatre?
Insights with Tony Howell
-
-
-
2.2k Shares
Quiz: Are You Audrey Or Audrey II?
-
-
-
1.2k Shares1 Comment
11 Tips For Teaching High School Drama
-
1.9k Shares16 Comments
Quiz: Pick Your Favorite Foods & We’ll Guess Your Favorite Musical
Does your taste for food match your taste for Musicals?
-
3.7k Shares2 Comments
10 Benefits Of Being A Character Actor
-
-
-
Load More
Congratulations. You've reached the end of the internet.
