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[post_title] => Quiz: Are These Stage Productions Real Or Fake?
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[post_content] => “Leave your expectations at the door, just let your eyes explore…”
Long before “RuPaul’s Drag Race” took the world by storm, Broadway was making strides in LGBT inclusion and representation. For example, musicals such as “Falsettos” and “Rent” portrayed realistic scenarios of the AIDS epidemic in urban settings. Meanwhile, drag characters have been and continue to be a staple of Broadway shows, whether they are written as comic relief or deep provocative figures.
As a tribute to the seasons of love audiences have with these characters, here are 15 of our favorite drag roles in musical theatre:
Inspirational educator Lou Volpe, a drama teacher at Harry S. Truman high school in small-town Pennsylvania, is the subject of Michael Sokolove’s book, “Drama High,” which provides the basis for the show.
Volpe created what is now a thriving program through his use of contemporary repertoire, with Truman becoming a pilot school for high-school versions of musicals being considered for widespread use.
The book has been transformed into a one-hour drama series that will follow Lou Mazzuchelli as he infuses life into a high-school theatre department.
As is typically the case these days, there are always six degrees of separation between anything and “Hamilton.” This is no exception. “Hamilton” producer Jeffrey Seller has teamed up with former “Friday Night Lights” showrunner Jason Katims to bring the show to life.
The show has found its home on NBC, which you may remember was the previous home of “Smash” (may it rest in peace). The network was also the first to launch the live-musical train with “The Sound of Music,” and it recently found acclaim with its live version of “Hairspray.” Next year will see the live musical trend continue on NBC with productions of “Jesus Christ Superstar” and “Bye Bye Birdie” already in the works.
Josh Radnor of “How I Met Your Mother” fame will take on the lead role of Lou Mazzuchelli. Actress and activist Rosie Perez is also listed in the cast, though her role is unknown as of right now. “Stranger Things” fan-favorite Shannon Purser, also known as Barb, is rumored to have a recurring guest spot on the show.
NBC has opted to reserve the show for a mid-season premiere, so the wait for this one will be a bit longer than previously expected.
While Radnor will be playing the lead, everyone is ready to see whether “Moana” star Auli’i Cravalho will find similar success on the small screen. Given this is a show about musicals, it’s clear she will unleash her killer musical pipes at some point.
The popular “Hamilton” composer must not sleep. How else would he find the time to complete the number of projects he is connected to these days? His name has been attached to “Rise” as well, with Cravalho revealing to TV Guide, “I will let you know that Lin-Manuel had a special part in our show. So, whether or not you’ll see him? You’ll definitely hear him and feel his influence.”
While it’s unclear whether viewers will see interpretations of his hit musicals or perhaps a cameo, it’s certainly increased the buzz around the highly anticipated show.
Musical television shows have had mixed success, from the long-running “Glee” to the short-lived “Smash.” So, it’s hard to tell whether “Rise” will have the potential for multiple seasons. Either way, one thing is for sure: It’s good to have more Broadway on television.
It never hurts to have a quick refresh before the start of the show and during intermission. It’s also good to have for reference, just in case.
Exhaustion and colds are common actor ailments. One a two-show day, getting home can be a difficult feat. A pillow and blanket are perfect when you need to curl up and catch a quick nap or just relax.
Keeping plants or flowers around has been known to reduce stress, so having them in the dressing room is ideal for creating a den of Zen to relax in before the show. Just remember to be courteous and check whether any of your fellow dressing roommates has allergies before you choose a plant.
Use a small bulletin board and create an ode to your character. Display pictures, sayings, trinkets and anything that reminds you of the person you are inhabiting. Look at it before the start of every show as you prepare.
Sometimes, water just doesn’t cut it, so have your personal mug handy for when a hot drink is required. Keep your vocal chords in tip-top shape by downing warm water, lemon and honey.
Some places provide clothing storage areas, but this isn’t always the case. Collapsible clothing racks are inexpensive and invaluable when it comes to keeping your things organized and fresh.
A traveling makeup case is great, but sometimes, it’s nice to have stationary storage you can leave behind at the theatre each night rather than lugging everything back and forth.
A speaker is crucial for a pre-show pump-up with your favorite playlist. These days, they come in all shapes and sizes, which is great if you are short on space.
It’s been said before, but it’s always worth repeating: You have to hydrate to dominate. Having a refillable water bottle that you can leave at the theatre each night will ensure you are never left high and dry because you forgot it at home.
Dressing rooms can get crazy, especially when shared by multiple castmates. Throwing on your headphones and blocking out the chaos will help you focus and relax. Just don’t miss your cue!
When the nerves set in, the doubts will creep up. Combat this by posting up positive messages around the room. Use cards or encouraging words from family and friends, or quotes from those who inspire you.
If you share a dressing room with other actors, mirror space can be difficult to come by. Sometimes, the mirror is nonexistent. Having a freestanding vanity mirror is the perfect solution. It’s also helpful for a closer view when applying items such as fake eyelashes.
The heat from stage lights combined with intense physical activity, costume changes, the usual lack of air conditioning in dressing rooms and the number of bodies in a small space equals a sweaty mess. Stay cool between scenes with a small fan.
Outlets can be limited, especially in older theatres. A power bar will keep everyone happy by eliminating the epic struggle for a free outlet.
Give your feet a rest between scenes and throw on a pair of slippers or comfortable shoes. Dance stores also sell warmup booties that keep feet cozy and protected.
These days, few people wear a watch because our phones have become an extra appendage. Many actors prefer to keep their phones stowed away during a performance to avoid breaking their focus. A clock removes the temptation to pull out the phone just to check the time.
Keep yourself entertained between scenes with books, newspapers or magazines. You can maybe even research topics related to the show!
Once hair and makeup are done, pulling clothes over your head can be difficult. A robe or dressing gown will keep you warm and make it less complicated to change into costumes.
Having a few hand towels is never a bad idea, especially when it comes to keeping sweat at bay or washing off makeup at the end of the night. Just remember to replace them each time you take them home for washing.
These are useful for making those hot drinks discussed in No. 5.
You never know what will happen during a show, so having a personal first aid kit complete with bandages and pain-relief medication can be a lifesaver.
This is vital if you are puckering up with any of your castmates onstage. There’s nothing worse than doing a kissing scene and being able to identify your castmate’s last meal.
It takes a lot of energy to get through a performance, so being hungry will just not do. Have some healthy snacks that are vocal chord-friendly on hand. Just don’t let anyone catch you eating in your costume.
Odd smells are not uncommon in dressing rooms, be it mildewy carpet or the fragrant food of the restaurant next door. A diffuser will combat the smell and freshen the place up. Again, make sure everyone who shares the space is on board before you set one up.
Putting yourself in the right mindframe before a performance is as crucial as the time spent rehearsing. Having a space with little touches that makes it feel like your own can help you give the best performance possible.
Many times, it’s not about what you know, but more about who you know. An internship is a great way to start networking with industry professionals and build a connection with the creatives who could hire you for a job in the future. You couldn’t ask for a better situation for those in the business to easily get to know your personality, work ethics and talents.
With an internship, you are basically gaining entry into the place where you are working, which could very easily open the door for other dream opportunities with them in the future. Just make sure to work hard and always put your best foot forward to create a positive impression that will last a lifetime.
Through an internship, you can find out whether you have what it takes as you get to know the basics of your chosen performing arts field. This will act as your foundation and stepping stone for the jobs you’ll apply for in the future that will ultimately require larger skill sets and more responsibility.
Sometimes you may be uncertain whether you want to pursue a career in the performing arts field and/or which parts you want to spend a lifetime in. Perhaps you may even want to do a bit of everything. Internships are a great way to explore your options, whether you want to be onstage, backstage or somewhere in between.
In a career path that is uncertain and can have many ups and downs, those you meet in the trenches of your internships may possibly become your friends and support system for years to come. They will be there to hold your hand, guide you and lift you up during your journey in show business.
[post_title] => Quiz: Which 'Phillipa Soo' Are You?
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[post_content] => Belting can be one of the best ways to get out pent-up energy, and luckily for a good mezzo, belting songs are pretty common in musicals. They are essentially the power ballad of Broadway, and the audience lives for that. For mezzos, it’s the perfect way to showcase your voice and just let it all out onstage.
Here are some of the best songs to let out your inner belting diva:
[post_title] => Quiz: How Well Do You Remember These 'In The Heights' Lyrics?
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[post_content] => High adventure! The city of Agrabah cheered this past weekend when Telly Leung made his highly anticipated debut as Aladdin a few days early. The Broadway veteran, who was most recently seen in “In Transit,” made one jump ahead on his schedule, excitedly writing on Instagram: “Well, that happened! The incredible @aladdin team got me ready a bit early and I made my debut tonight as Aladdin – a few days early. Thanks to everyone at Agrabah for welcoming me with such love and warmth!”
Lucky for us Theatre Nerds, we caught up with the 37-year-old superstar a day before he hopped on the magic carpet for the first time. Check out our interview with Broadway’s newest Aladdin below:
[caption id="attachment_8857" align="alignnone" width="502"]
Leung backstage during his first “Aladdin” performance / Photo: Instagram/@tellyleung[/caption]
Theatre Nerds: Congratulations on stepping into Aladdin! How has the journey compared to the many other shows you've worked on? I imagine being under Disney is magically different.
Telly Leung: This is my seventh Broadway show, and my second time replacing. I replaced Robin De Jesus in “Rent” on Broadway in 2006. Most of my Broadway experience has been originating roles, which has its own challenges: the pressure (and joy) of creating something from scratch, the constant changes during previews (what song is cut? What are the new lyrics? What joke are we trying out tonight?). But, there is a certain ownership of the material and the process that comes with originating a role.
Replacing in a show, especially in a role this big, has been a challenge. An actor always feels this constant pressure to play catch-up with the rest of the company. Luckily, I have a wonderful, warm, patient company at Agrabah, and everyone has been so supportive throughout the process. It’s truly a top-notch company. I feel very lucky.
TN: That’s wonderful! The “first look” pictures of you are awesome! Does it feel wild to be entering the world of such a beloved film?
TL: Thank you! Bravo to Matt Murphy, one of my favorite photographers in New York. There is certainly pressure to not disappoint all those people who have such a soft spot in their heart for the 1992 film. I count myself as one of those fans! All I can do is bring my sense of truth and honesty to the show, moment to moment, and attempt (to the best of my ability) to fill the big shoes left to me by the amazing Adam Jacobs, who originated the role.
TN: Did your “Allegiance” costar Lea Salonga, who is, of course, famous for voicing Jasmine and Mulan in the animated films, offer up any advice?
TL: My show-sister Lea didn’t offer any advice, but I loved hearing her talk about her wonderful experience being not one, but two Disney princesses. She had the most wonderful things to say about Alan Menken and what a warm person he is. I got to meet Alan recently at an event in Los Angeles, and it’s always a relief when you meet your heroes and they end up being as warm and down-to-earth as you hope they’d be!
TN: When you first watched the musical, what moment were you most excited to get a chance to do?
TL: Of course, I was excited to fly on that magic carpet. It’s a moment of pure stage magic that truly takes your breath away. But I was also excited to tackle “Proud of Your Boy,” Aladdin’s big “I want” song in Act 1. It’s a song that was cut from the movie, but it’s beautifully written by Alan Menken and Howard Ashman — and it has found new life in the stage production. It’s such a great exploration of Aladdin’s character, and I enjoy singing it every night!
TN: Aladdin is quite a demanding role, both physically and vocally. What measures have you been taking to prepare and to maintain stamina for the run?
TL: Aladdin is a beast of a role. One must stay healthy, hydrated and in shape to tackle it eight times a week. I eat right. I exercise. I rest. I drink lots of water. I take voice lessons. It’s a very disciplined life, but it’s worth it.
TN: I’m sure! Fresh off your incredible turn in the a-capella musical “In Transit,” have you taken anything you've learned from that experience and applied it to this one?
TL: Yes! I learned so much about myself vocally in “In Transit.” We all had to be vocal athletes in that show, and it was a lesson in stamina and preservation while still giving a full performance. I’ve certainly taken those lessons with me to the New Am!
“In Transit” was also a tight-knit company — a family — where everyone depended on each other. There was no lead. We were all part of an ensemble. I think this is an important dynamic to have in the theatre — even if the show has a lead. I’m playing the title character of “Aladdin” — what you may call the lead — but I don’t like to think of myself as the lead. I like to think of myself as part of a large ensemble of about 100 people — made up of dancers, actors, dressers, crew, stage, managers, ushers — that all make up the show that is “Aladdin.” That “little show,” family mentality is something I’d like to maintain and encourage during my time at Agrabah, even though it’s an enormous show.
TN: What are you most hoping your portrayal of Aladdin will give audiences?
TL: When I was in rehearsal, I had the pleasure of watching the show every night. I got to experience the emotional magic carpet ride the audience feels night after night at the New Am. The show itself is beautifully constructed, with great songs and a great story. All I have to do is take the audience with me on a little emotional rollercoaster and have them get on that ride with Aladdin.
TN: Although you're living the dream right now, if you had a Genie suddenly poof into your life, what would your three wishes be?
TL: 1. I'd wish for the ability to fly like Superman.
2. I’d wish to go back in time and see all the Broadway shows I was too young to see! Can you imagine seeing the original productions of “Gypsy,” “Mame” and “Carousel?!”
3. I'd wish for a new president in the White House.
TN: What's your best piece of advice for aspiring performers?
TL: Theatre is an art that doesn’t happen in a vacuum. It’s not like you’re a sculptor or a painter who can create art by himself or herself. It takes a village. Treat everyone in the collaborative process with respect, because no one job is more important than the other. The lead of the show is just as important as the person who does props or whose sole job is to sweep the stage every night.
TN: To end on a rather "Theatre Nerds-esque” note, I'm wondering if you've ever had a moment when you totally geeked out over a Broadway performer upon meeting them?
TL: I met Carol Channing once. I was in the presence of greatness. She was warm, charming, funny and made everyone around her feel like they were an old friend. That’s a star!
[post_title] => Quiz: Can We Guess What Green Room Personality You Are?
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If you are a Platt fan, you’ve likely listened to “Waving Through a Window” more times than you can count. But, since the internet is a fantastic place just ripe with videos of our favorite stars’ performances, here are 13 videos to watch to further fuel your obsession with this Broadway superstar:
During the crazy success of “Hamilton” in 2016, it was announced that Lin-Manuel Miranda’s 2007 hit “In the Heights” will officially be made into a film. The road to the silver screen has been a little shaky for this adaptation. This four-time Tony Award-winning musical is sure to be an amazing film, but a cast has yet to be announced.
Though Miranda has enough on his plate, currently filming “Mary Poppins Returns” and recently being cast in the “DuckTales” reboot, some can’t help but hope he reprises his role as Usnavi in the film adaptation.
Miranda told the Huffington Post, “I don’t want to play the role if it feels like it’s not age-appropriate with the rest of the cast. But Chris Jackson (who originated the role of Benny in the show) and I can be in the background playing dominoes during ‘When You’re Home’ and that would be f***king great.”
With producers such as Jay Z already signed on to the project, this adaptation is going to warrant more than a bottle of cold champagne.
This project is pretty new compared to the others, but it has been reported that this Tony Award-winning musical will be moving to the big screen. This musical, which first opened on Broadway in 2014, starred Jessie Mueller and won her her first Tony Award for her performance as Carole King.
Variety reports the film is currently set to be produced by Sony Pictures, with Tom Hanks already signed on as one of the producers. With classic songs that appeal to all ages, this biopic musical adaptation could really be a big hit.
Who do you think should play the iconic songwriter on the big screen?
This Andrew Lloyd Webber classic is currently in the works to come to the big screen. With a revival now on Broadway, there is still a lot of admiration for this show that many people love to hate.
According to Vanity Fair, Tom Hooper, director of the “Les Misérables” adaptation, is already signed on to direct this feline-filled film. And though not much else is known at this point, we can’t help but wonder how it will go.
It’s one thing for a film to try to stay true to the story of a musical, not let down during big ensemble numbers and deliver on casting, but this is “Cats.” Who is going to sign on to play Rum Tum Tugger or Grizabella? These days, we are fortunate enough to see big Broadway stars in TV musicals and big film adaptations, but something tells us names such as Darren Criss and Meryl Streep are not going to claw at the opportunity to be in this film.
Despite the skepticism facing this project, it shouldn't be counted out just yet. Webber’s other film adaptations were fairly good, and just think of the amazing effects this adaptation can bring to Mr. Mistoffelees’ tricks! Worst-case scenario, we can always revert back to the 1998 VHS version of the show.
This punk rock musical first graced the stage in 2010, reinventing Green Day’s 2004 concept album of the same name. The film is currently being produced by HBO and is set to be directed by Michael Mayer, the director of the Broadway musical.
As of right now, there is no set date or cast for this film, but Green Day frontman Billie Joe Armstrong is already set to reprise his role as St. Jimmy. When speaking to NME, he said, “I think it’s going to be a lot different from the musical. It’s kind of more surreal, but I think there’s going to be parts of it that might offend people — which is good. I think it’s a great time to offend people. I think there’s just going to be a lot of imagery that we couldn’t pull off in the musical in the stage version. You know, I don’t want to give away too much, but it will be shocking in a way which makes you think.”
This classic musical about a plant that comes from outer space and eats people is in talks for a musical movie remake. Though this show has not been on Broadway in recent years, the success of its two-night concert at the New York City Center in 2015, led by Jake Gyllenhaal, proves this show still has a very strong fanbase.
Entertainment Weekly reports Greg Berlanti (“The Flash,” “Supergirl”) has signed on to direct the remake. With Matthew Robinson set to do the screenplay and Marc Platt Productions signed on to produce, this remake could come sooner than we think.
It seems like the only thing left to do is decide on the cast. Could you imagine Tituss Burgess as Audrey II, or Neil Patrick Harris as Seymour? Of course, this is extremely wishful thinking, but the real question is, can Steve Martin reprise his frightening “Dentist!” for the new film?
This is a weird one to get a musical film adaptation. Unlike the other musicals on this list, “Finding Neverland” was based on a film of the same name starring Johnny Depp that told the story of how J.M. Barrie brought Peter Pan to life.
Though snubbed at the Tony Awards in 2015, this Gary Barlow-scored musical has truly brought a new, magical dimension to an already great story. The show is currently on a national tour and has a pretty solid fanbase, but what would a film adaptation of a musical adaptation based on a film look like for this show?
No cast or director has been assigned to the project. Here’s hoping this magical musical actually sails to the big screen.
This loud musical has been in talks to become a film for the past few years. “Matilda,” based on the Roald Dahl novel of the same name, closed on Broadway on Jan. 1, 2017. Though there were talks that the movie would potentially start filming in 2016, the production has yet to get underway.
To be fair, Tim Minchin has had his hands full lately. His new hit, “Groundhog Day” has been making waves on Broadway after transferring from London, where it took home the Olivier Award for Best New Musical. The hype is not dying down for this new musical anytime soon, as it was nominated for multiple Tony Awards this year.
However, there is still hope for the film adaptation of “Matilda.” With Matthew Warchus signed on as the director (“Matilda,” “Groundhog Day”), the film should be able to get underway soon. Minchin told The Stage, “We didn’t want to rush it, as we wanted it to be known as a theatre piece. We didn’t want people going to the theatre saying, ‘Oh, it’s the musical of that movie.’ You want people seeing the film, saying, ‘It’s the movie of that musical.’”
Minchin also said he hopes the film could wrap up by 2018. With a cast not yet announced, it’s hard to tell whether that will happen, but let’s hope production starts moving again soon. It would be a great way to see this naughty group of revolting children bring this great musical to life onscreen.
After many years of rumors and speculation, this popular musical is coming to the big screen. This adaptation of Stephen Schwartz and Winnie Holzman’s musical is probably one of the most anticipated stage-to-film adaptations in production. With work already underway on the screenplay, Schwartz has given fans more to look forward to with this new movie.
When speaking to Playbill just a few weeks ago, he said we can expect at least two new songs in the adaptation. Schwartz was also very adamant that his adaptation will not be exact.
“There are things that work onstage but won’t work on film,” he said. “In order to do something that will work on its own merits, you have to do something different. The only concern is people who would be coming expecting to see a filmed version of the play. They’re not going to see that.”
However, fans already seem to have their dream casting for this particular adaptation. With ideas of Lea Michele as Elphaba, Aaron Tveit as Fiyero and Beth Behrs as Glinda, it’s hard not to get ahead of ourselves. But what this adaptation has that most do not is an official premiere date: Dec. 20, 2019.
NBC recently announced it would stage the popular (and controversial) 1960s musical. “Hair” will join a string of live-action musicals put on by NBC, including “Jesus Christ Superstar,” which aired on the network on Easter this year. There have been no announcements on casting yet, but theatre lovers are already speculating.
Release Date: May 19, 2019
With Guy Ritchie at the helm, Disney’s remake of the beloved animated classic will feature old favorites as well as new songs penned by the film’s original composer, Alan Menken, alongside Benj Pasek and Justin Paul, the team behind “Dear Evan Hansen.” This live-action adaptation features Hollywood heavy-hitter Will Smith as the Genie, Canadian actor Mena Massoud as Aladdin, and British actress Naomi Scott as Princess Jasmine.
Release Date: May 24, 2019
The stars came out for this one, including the one which eclipses them all: Queen Beyonce, who will voice Nala. Donald Glover will play opposite as Simba, and James Earl Jones will reprise his role as Mufasa. The remainder of the cast includes other Hollywood favorites such as Chiwetel Ejiofor, Seth Rogen, John Oliver, and Keegan-Michael Key, to name a few. The film’s director, Jon Favreau, directed Disney’s recent remake of “The Jungle Book,” which could be an indication of the style of the upcoming remake.
Release Date: July 19, 2019
Miranda is a busy guy. With “In the Heights” already in the works, he announced his intention to direct an adaptation of Jonathan Larson’s musical “Tick, Tick…Boom!” with the script written by “Dear Evan Hansen” writer Steven Levenson. In the past, Miranda has praised Larson’s work as inspirational in his personal process, and additionally played the character of Jon in a revival of the show back in 2014.
Release Date: TBA
The rumors of this remake from Steven Spielberg and Tony Kushner became a reality earlier this year when a casting call went out for actors/singer/dancers for the leading roles of Tony, Maria, Anita, and Bernardo. No announcements have been made regarding actors chosen for the film or a release date, but the Spielberg/Kushner duo has audiences waiting with bated breath.
Release Date: TBA
Producers of this social media sensation recently announced plans for a film adaptation. This is somewhat surprising since the show has not even opened on Broadway yet. However, Joe Iconis's runaway hit has been getting Broadway-Hit like attention since its recent sold-out run Off-Broadway. Many are predicting this as next big winner on the great white way. Needless to say, the movie is still far from being here and no timetable has yet been given.
Release Date: TBA
Kate Johnston also contributed to this article
“Avenue Q” has a great collection of songs that usually make you cry with laughter, but this piece is sure to make you cry your biggest, saddest tears. Everyone has experienced the fine, fine line between a relationship and friendship and the yearning you feel to be more than just a friend. For those who need to put it into words, this is a great song to let you express what the fine line is all about.
One of the most heartbreaking musicals of our time, “The Last Five Years” really pulls on the heartstrings with this opening ballad. When you’re going through a breakup, it’s pretty easy to pretend you are OK and go on with your life. It’s even harder to recognize you need time to hurt and heal. If you aren’t crying out all of your feelings by the end of this one, you’re doing it wrong.
Ever experienced unrequited love? Eponine can teach you a thing or two about that feeling. This song is perfect for the breakup that totally ruins you and leaves you thinking you are on your own. It helps you recognize those emotions are real and it’s totally OK.
You have a lot of regrets and things that went wrong with your past relationship, but hey, maybe next time, things will be better. Liza Minnelli couldn’t put it any better in this classic “Cabaret” song. Keep your chin up — maybe things will look up!
There’s nothing like singing your sorrows away while wailing on a little guitar. This song will have you feeling the rock power you need to get over that terrible gigolo, anyway. Embrace your inner rocker (high boots and sparkly eyeshadow included) and sing your feelings all out.
So, maybe you are done with the crying stage and are so ready to move on. This song is sure to help you move past the relationship BS and start fresh. Just like washing your hair, you can rinse all those feelings away and have a clean outlook.
No one wants to be that person that mopes around after a relationship, just like no one wants to break up with their long-term partner after a romantic night when they think they’re getting proposed to! Don’t worry about moping around, and be better than they ever thought you could be. Elle knows best — you are so much better than that!
We all have our quirks. Sometimes even your partner can’t handle who you really are or even accept it. Post-breakup you may realize they maybe just couldn’t handle all of you, and that’s fine. “Take Me or Leave Me” is the song that helps you embrace who you are and learn to walk away when it’s not the right fit.
We all reach a point where we know things aren’t meant to be and that’s just the way it is. This song from a classic Sondheim musical help you realize the imperfections and get over things.
Getting cheated on by a partner is tragic. Fortunately, you have tragic “Hamilton” songs to help you deal with the cheater in your life. It’s time to sing along and burn those love letters (or delete those texts) that remind you of your ex.
Alan Cumming couldn’t have sung it better. Stay or go, you are going to be just fine without that person in your life. You could care less, go or stay!
Perhaps you are at the point of the breakup where reality has set in. You aren’t the type to usually get caught in romantic whims, so you need a little reminder that you are strong. You aren’t going to lose sight of yourself in the relationship, and Idina can help you sing your way back into confidence again.
Yeah, you can admit it — breakups suck, and you are allowed to be sad. But ultimately, you learn a lot from a failed relationship. You learn about yourself and what you’re looking for in a partner. Though you may be a bit sad, you are that much stronger for it!
Besides being chock-full of animated audiences and sparkling performances, Broadway theatres are infested with ghoulish histories. Each night, after the curtain falls and everyone goes home, the Broadway spirits come out to play, illuminated by their respective theatre’s ghostlight. However, some phantoms also strut their stuff during the lively hours, playing tricks on current Broadway stars and theatre employees. From vaudeville acrobats flying across the house to former theatre owners dropping by to check up on things, we’d like to introduce you to some of Broadway’s most famous ghosts.
As the current house manager of the Belasco tirelessly works in her office, she’ll occasionally hear the man above stirring in his own wood-paneled space. The company comforts her on late nights, but it probably shouldn’t — especially considering that the office above is kept under tight lock and key, motion detectors and all, and has been empty for decades.
Legendary theatre owner David Belasco built the theatre that still stands in his name on West 44th Street. He spent his life there, writing, directing and managing all sorts of plays. In fact, he spent so much of his time there that he dwelled in an apartment above. So, it comes as no shock that Belasco remains in the space even after passing on in 1931.
Dubbed by Playbill as “one of the most solid theatre ghosts,” Belasco began to appear almost immediately after his death. Actors began to notice a lone, dark shadow watching their performances from the balcony. He wasn’t shy, either, going right up to the performers and shaking their hands afterward and saying they had done a fabulous job. Many actresses reportedly complained about an older man in a priest ensemble pinching their bottoms. Considering Belasco was known in his day as a flirt and “The Bishop of Broadway,” this makes sense.
In death, Belasco remains a flirt, holding a relationship with a ghost known as “The Blue Lady.” An anonymous celebrity who appeared in a show at the Belasco recently reported hearing the locked door of her dressing room open while she was taking a shower. She frantically ran out, only to find the door still securely shut. But when she went back to the bathroom, it was bathed with a strange blue glow.
Like his lover, the former theatre owner is not against manifesting himself in stereotypical ghost forms, either. He swings closed doors open, raises the curtain magically and sends out puffs of cigar smoke into the atmosphere when no one alive is smoking. He has also been known to throw wild parties with other spirits, with late-night workers hearing the noise. Despite being sealed up and shut down for years, Belasco’s private elevator has also been heard puttering up to his private office.
Playbill reported that an usher was closing up the lobby one night at the Belasco and playfully called out, “Goodnight, Mr. Belasco.” And, even though the exterior doors were pulled shut and there was no wind, all the lobby doors swung open in unison. Needless to say, the usher transferred to another theatre. It looks like Belasco doesn’t ever want the theatre to close.
Aladdin’s Genie isn’t the only mystical creature soaring through Disney’s 42nd Street house. The New Amsterdam Theatre is home to one of Broadway’s most active ghosts: Olive Thomas.
This former Ziegfeld Follies girl has been haunting the theatre since she died of accidental poisoning in 1920. Known by her signature outfit (a green-beaded Follies dress, beaded headpiece and a sash), Thomas has been seen wandering with a big blue pill bottle. This is said to be the container that carries the mercury pills she used to poison herself.
Thomas reportedly manifests so frequently that photographs of her have been placed at every entrance of the New Amsterdam so staff can say hello and goodbye to her each day. They believe doing so has kept her mischief at bay, but that doesn’t mean she isn’t still around. In fact, every time there is a malfunction during a performance of the highly technical “Aladdin,” her name immediately comes to mind.
Shortly after the opening of “Aladdin” in 2014, Thomas made an appearance. An audience member in the orchestra asked one of the ushers for a booster seat for her child.
“We don’t like to interrupt a show,” Dana Amendola, vice president of operations at Disney Theatrical Group, told Playbill, “so we waited until the intermission and came to her with a booster. But we found she already had one. When we asked her where she had gotten it, she said a ‘lady at the back of the theatre’ had gestured to where they were. Now, we don’t have a woman at the back of the house who does that in the middle of a show. We checked, and none of the staff had done it. So you can take that how you like, but it was kind of freaky.”
The occurrence seems rare, as Thomas mainly reveals herself to men and acts flirtatious toward them.
Her spirit also recently appeared when Disney employees were talking about the movie “The Artist,” which is set in the era of silent films. After someone mentioned Thomas became a silent film star, someone made the mistake of saying the real silent-era star was actually Mary Pickford (Thomas’ sister-in-law). At that moment, a tall stack of DVDs on a nearby table flew across the room, crashing onto the floor. The group was stunned.
“They didn’t fall straight down as CDs would have done,” Amendola said. “They went flying about three feet across the room and hit a wall. This was witnessed by several people.”
Amendola went on to say ushers and overnight security have felt a presence sneak up on them and touch their back, only to find no one there. Apparently crazed fans hope for that same feeling, some trying to hide in the New Amsterdam overnight with the intention of spotting Thomas. According to Amendola, security does a special sweep each night to catch them.
Now here is a ghost you don’t want to see. The Palace Theatre staff will warn you of the tale of Louis Borsalino. In the days of vaudeville, Borsalino had a tightrope-walking act at the Palace. Unfortunately, the acrobat fell to his death during one performance. As years passed, actors saw his ghost walking a tightrope from the house-left box up to the mezzanine. However, these stories can’t be verified. Legend has it that anyone who sees this particular ghost dies within a year.
However, don’t be alarmed if you just happened to see a ghost at the Palace. There are many other spirits in residency, including a cellist dressed all in white who was last seen during the run of “Beauty and the Beast,” a man in a brown suit who is known for haunting the offices at the theatre nightly, a young boy who will play with his toy trucks in the mezzanine and even Judy Garland. That’s right, the presence of the legend herself is palpable near a door that the theatre had constructed especially for her at the back of the house.
Of course, there are a multitude of other ghosts on Broadway. So, the next time you go to the theatre, pay attention — because the stars aren’t just on the stage and they’re dying to be in the spotlight again (*insert maniacal laughter here*).
At 71, Bette Midler proved there is no age limit on dreams and achievements after being nominated for her first Tony Award for her role in “Hello, Dolly!”
“I’m actually thrilled,” Midler told CBS News. “And I think the crowd is thrilled, too. Because a lot of people my age are coming. And they see me skipping, and they flip out. I skip — a step that they haven’t done since they were seven. And they feel like, ‘Wow. If she’s doing it, maybe I can do it, too.’ And I love that.”
While the Tony’s recognized her with a special award in 1974 for “Adding lustre to the Broadway season,” this is her first nomination for a performance. Winning would be a real full-circle moment for Midler, who began her career in theatre about 50 years ago.
Nominated for Best Original Score for their work on Broadway smash “Dear Evan Hansen,” Benj Pasek and Justin Paul scored their Oscar-winning “La La Land” gig by being persistent. Even after a phone interview, director Damien Chazelle and composer Justin Hurwitz still weren’t sold on the duo. Pasek and Paul were prepared to wait, but their management had other ideas and suggested an arranged spontaneous meeting in Los Angeles.
Pasek told Deadline their management suggested dropping the pair a line with, “‘We just happen to be here, do you guys happen to be free for dinner?’ We were like, ‘This is crazy. This is insane, and we like, are really poor and we don’t have money for flights.’ He’s like, ‘You have enough money to fly yourselves economy across the country to be there on Monday to ask them to go to dinner with you.’”
Crazy as it sounded, the idea worked, and the rest is Oscar history. The moral of the story is there is no formula for success, and you can’t always wait for opportunities to fall into your lap.
“Falsettos” actor and Tony nominee Andrew Rannells went to one of his first auditions in New York for “Rent,” but he didn’t get cast. However, he did meet Bernard Telsey, a casting director who later cast him in his first Broadway role in “Hairspray.” This set him on a path toward his major Broadway break, “The Book of Mormon,” which saw his first Tony nomination.
Rannells told the Hollywood Reporter that his work on that show opened the door to another opportunity when “Lena [Dunham] and Jenni Konner came to opening night of ‘The Book of Mormon.’ They had shot the pilot of ‘Girls,’ they got their pickup and they were just about to start filming the first season. And a couple of weeks later, I got a phone call about coming in and reading for this new TV show.”
He won the part of Elijah, who became a series regular in the second season and remained on the show for all seven seasons. You never know which connections will lead you to success.
Surprisingly, Linda Cho, who was nominated for a Tony for Costume Design, studied psychology in college, not art or design. While some would say it’s unrelated to her current field and therefore a waste now, Cho would disagree.
She told Mochi Magazine, “You’re working with temperamental, artistic people, whether they’re directors or designers or people in the shops, so you have to think about how to best deal with them in different situations.” Cho also uses her background knowledge when designing for each character by delving into their minds in each scene.
Like Cho, treat your background and experience as an asset instead of a mistake.
Stage and screen actor Corey Hawkins, nominated for his role in the play “Six Degrees of Separation” always goes back to what he learned at Juilliard about the duty of the artist to society.
Hawkins told NPR, “It wasn’t about the sort of fame and the legendary alumni, which can be a little intimidating, but it became about the work and what we’re trying to say with our art.”
Watching his mother, a police officer, serve the community showed Hawkins he could use his gifts as an artist and make a difference. His nominated role is no exception, shining a light on the current racial issues, especially those involving the criminal justice system.
These are just five of the incredible nominees up for recognition at the June 11 awards ceremony. It’s a night when youth everywhere will watch with excitement and dream of the day they will be onstage, blubbering their way through an emotional acceptance speech before a band plays them off. Take heart; your day will come.
Lint rollers keep the costumes clean of any dust, dander, feathers, glitter and/or anything else that may collect both onstage and offstage.
These are the answer to most costume emergencies, since you can use them to hold almost anything together. Keep a full box on hand.
These are needed for immediate repairs involving most of the items on this list. You can even use them if a zipper gets stuck or you can’t untie a shoelace. Use the scissor to cut the zipper open or the laces off so you can get the actor out of the piece of costume that is causing the issue. This may sound extreme, but it this happens in the middle of a quick change, it may be the only way to remedy the issue. Don’t worry — the costume shop can fix all cut things once the show is over so they’re as as good as new for the next performance.
You can use this handy tool to gently rip open stitches or a hem on any garment. Keep this on hand when scissors will do too much damage.
This is a must-have no matter what! Use these to sew up rips, tears, holes or any other clothing pieces that need some TLC.
These handy wipes aren’t just for babies. Use them to take the stains out of the costumes. Keep a little jug or box on hand, and when you see a stain, grab one and scrub gently.
Duct tape is probably one of the greatest inventions ever made. Keep a roll on hand, especially some that has a bit of a smaller width. This way, if a hem falls out and you don’t have time to repair it, you can quickly duct tape it from the inside to get through the scene or show and then fix it when it’s over.
Extra buttons, snaps and hooks are good to have on hand in a tin or storage container to replace any that break during a show. Having them at the ready sure beats having to find them in the costume shop when you’re in a pinch during a performance.
Yes, vodka, the alcoholic beverage, except you won’t drink it. Instead, place in a spray bottle and use to spray any stinky costumes. It fights bacteria, keeps odors away and is way gentler on clothes and the environment than ready-made clothes refresher sprays. No one wants to be close to a cast member who smells, so keep this trick in mind to help keep odors away.
This invention works great on those hot and humid days when static cling is running amok backstage. Spray on clothing that might need it to prevent your dancers’ flowy costumes from clinging to them and others during the big dance number.
Not only does it help to keep hair in place, but it can also help you solve a stocking run. Spray a little on the run, and you’re good to go. It’s also another way to stop static cling. Just be sure to spray on legs/tights and not on the garment itself, as it can stain. This little trick prevents skirts and pants from clinging to your legs.
Similar to hairspray, nail polish can solve runs in stockings or garments with a netting texture. Just paint some on, and all will be remedied. Of course, make sure to use clear polish. In addition, you can paint clear polish on any costume jewelry (especially fake gold and silver) to give them a nice shine and keep it from turning an awful tarnished color after coming in contact with skin.
Have some extra on hand in case a performer gets a run or hole and needs a quick replacement. You certainly don’t want to have to go digging in the costume shop when you need an emergency pair.
Shoelaces break, so be prepared and have extra pairs on hand in case you need them. In an emergency, they can also be used to replace similar closures for other garments, such as corset ties, and to replace belts in a pinch.
It’s a good idea for both your actors and dressers to have these on hand. If someone cuts themselves, you can prevent him or her from bleeding all over the costume.
This is another amazing invention that is basically scotch tape but much stickier and sticky on both sides. Usually, it’s used to apply fake facial hair, but with costumes, it can be used to keep them in place by adhering parts of the costumes to the actors’ skin. If you have ever wondered how movie stars keep their gowns in place when there is nothing to hold them up in the appropriate places, this is it.
For anyone who has tight-fitting shoes, have a shoe horn on hand to help them slip them on and off. This is especially helpful during a quick change when you have to change the performer’s shoes.
A great site to visit for breaking theatre news and show information, Playbill is a trusted source of news for the theatre community. My motto has always been, “If it’s not on Playbill, it’s not real.” And besides the latest news from the Rialto, Playbill.com is a great place to find information on current or future shows. Also, sign up for a Playbill Club membership to access discount codes to Broadway and Off-Broadway shows, as well as hotels and attractions in New York City.
An absolutely essential site for theatre lovers, the Internet Broadway Database (IBDB) has listings for every Broadway show that ever happened. Want to know who was in the original production of “Porgy and Bess” in 1935 or who replaced Patti Lupone in “Evita?” IBDB.com is the place to find out.
Lortel.org is the homepage for the Lucille Lortel Foundation. Besides offering excellent information on the foundation’s work and lots of history of the Lucille Lortel Theatre, one of Off-Broadway’s best theatres, Lortel.org contains the Internet Off-Broadway Database (IOBDB).
A great new website, Show-Score is kind of like Yelp, but for theatre. Browse all the shows to see how actual theatre-going people feel about the shows playing in New York and beyond. And, the benefits of membership are incredible and totally free. Members can rate any show they see, and once you rate enough, you earn different badges to show others just how influential you are. Members also frequently get offered free tickets to shows and events, as well as discounted tickets to Broadway shows and events where you can not only see great theatre, but also meet fellow enthusiasts and make lasting friendships.
Broadway.org is the main website of The Broadway League, which is the national trade association for the Broadway industry. It’s basically a big group of all the theatre owners and such from all across the country. It’s a great source of information on Broadway and touring shows as well as events such as Kids Night on Broadway.
Similar to the IBDB, the Playbill Vault gives show information for almost every Broadway show ever. The biggest advantage of the Playbill Vault is unsurprisingly the playbills! You can search full playbills for shows going back to the 1920s.
The website of the Theatre Development Fund, a nonprofit dedicated to making theatre affordable for all, TDF is the awesome organization behind the famous TKTS booths located in NYC that offer day-of, half-priced tickets to Broadway and Off-Broadway shows. In addition, if eligible, you can join and receive access to heavily discounted tickets to shows in advance. Other resources you can find on the website include the TDF Costume Collection and real-time updates on what can be expected to be at TKTS booths.
A hugely popular website for theatre fans, Broadway.com is a great place for news and features on all the currently running Broadway fare. Top features include video series “Side By Side by Susan Blackwell,” “Broadway Ink,” featuring the amazing artwork of Justin “Squigs” Robertson and the Broadway.com Audience Choice Awards.
Another amazing source of Broadway breaking news, BroadwayWorld.com is great not only for NYC news and features, but for all cities across the country. Some of the amazing features are “Chewing the Scenery with Randy Rainbow,” “Backstage with Richard Ridge,” exclusive early access to some of the best theatre podcast episodes and the infamous BroadwayWorld message boards. Side note, it’s also the only theatre website with an Apple TV app.
Triton Gallery is the only art gallery in the world devoted solely to Broadway posters, known as window cards. While it has all the latest posters from current hits, it also has hundreds of window cards from seasons past. You can also get high-quality reproductions of classic hits, such as the original “Oklahoma!” or “My Fair Lady” posters, and some of the biggest flops, such as the musical version of “Breakfast at Tiffany’s.” It also sells signed posters, frames and even three-sheets (giant-sized posters like the ones in Shubert Alley). It’s a great site to go shopping or just spend hours browsing!
OK, so this isn't technically a theatre-specific site, but who among us hasn’t fallen into a blissful Broadway-themed video hole of Tony Awards clips or Broadway commercials from the 1980s? YouTube is a treasure trove of videos from Broadway’s past and present. Here, we’ll get you started on another one:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o98FxOza6-s
Talkin’ Broadway is a site with many different facets. Probably best known as the home of the “All That Chat” message boards, Talkin’ Broadway also features a weekly roundup of all the soon-to-be-released CDs, books and DVDs, and a Shoppin’ Broadway board where users post tickets, memorabilia and other theatre-related things for sale.
A website with a great and surprisingly novel idea, Did He Like It curates all the different major reviews for Broadway and Off-Broadway shows and answers the question, “Did he (or she) like it?”
Masterworks Broadway is one of the biggest makers of cast recordings in the world, and its website is a great place to shop for more than 100 different original cast recordings and solo artists. However, it’s so much more than that. The website features tons of amazing photos from Broadway’s past, videos of exclusive interviews with the likes of Stephen Sondheim, Hal Prince and Angela Lansbury and a weekly column by one of the best musical theatre historians out there, Peter Filichia.
Theatre books are the best, right? But they can be difficult to find, especially older ones. AbeBooks is an amazing website for cheap, hard-to-find books, with tons of theatre books to explore. There’s no better way to spend time than starting to build a theatre library of your own!
Another great site powered by The Broadway League, Spotlight On Broadway focuses not on shows, but the Broadway theatres. Get the history on all 40 of the Broadway theatres with awesome videos, interviews and photos.
*With the opening (or reopening, rather) of the Hudson Theatre, currently home to the revival of “Sunday in the Park With George,” there are now 41 Broadway theatres. Here’s hoping they’ll update the site in the future to include the beautiful Hudson.
BroadwayGreen.com is the homepage for the Broadway Green Alliance (BGA), an amazing resource for how the Broadway community and all theatre communities around the country can help protect the planet and go green. It’s full of great information such as how to recycle costumes and props, what to do with old batteries and computers and other ways to lessen your carbon footprint in the theatre. College students can also sign up to become their college’s green captain to help revitalize their school’s green efforts with the full support of the alliance.
BlueGobo.com is a YouTube-like site dedicated solely to theatre. Ovrtur is an online catalogue with thousands of listings for theatre productions from Broadway, London and beyond. Recently, they combined forces to become a theatre super-site!
Between Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and all the other social media sites, it can be difficult to keep track of just the theatre-related posts. Enter Bway Zone! Powered by the Broadway League, Bway Zone brings all the social media sites together and shows you all the theatre posts in real-time.
Whether your a Broadway fan or a theatre kid (adults welcome too) looking to get your swag on, this is the place for you. ThespianSwag.com is ran by the same wonderful (biased) folks here at TheatreNerds.com. This is your one-stop shop for theatre themed merchandise including: clothing, tote bags, jewelry, mugs, & more.
Okay, we might be a bit biased (again), but TheatreNerds.com is one of the best sites out there for, well, theatre nerds! Besides inspiring (and often hilarious) memes featured on the site and on the TheatreNerds Facebook page and an incredible Swag Shop, a new article every day makes it an essential website to visit daily. And, there are big things coming, too, such as an audition song database, a musical web series, a theatre history of the day column and so much more. Stick with us, fellow theatre nerds — we’ve got you covered.
Open calls, both union (known as Equity Principal Auditions and Equity Chorus Calls) and non-union cattle calls are the most popular ways for those new to NYC to get seen for all the auditioning theatre jobs. Being that these are the most easily accessible to actors at any level, they are also the most crowded and sometimes require many hours of waiting all day to be seen to strut your stuff. Make sure you are prepared to wait and keep your mind busy by bringing a good book, iPad to watch movies or television and or busywork. It will make you much happier if you can keep your mind and spirit positively occupied during long waits.
Lining up for auditions and guaranteeing you’ll be seen requires waking up at the crack of dawn. Depending on how the audition will be, you may need to get in line as early as 5:30 a.m. (and yes, there are people who show up even earlier). If you show up any later than 7 a.m., don’t be surprised if there is a line around the block and hundreds of people in front of you.
You may or may not be used to harsh winters, but NYC does have them, and a good bulk of auditions happens during those months. This means you’ll be waiting in lines outside in the cold until those audition studios open up for the day. Be sure to wear layers of winter clothes and buy portable hand warmers so you’ll stay cozy and warm.
During busy audition season, multiple auditions can happen on a single day. This means you could potentially go back and forth across town many times in a few hours, first to sign up for all these auditions, then to actually attend them. To make this happen, get your stamina up, keep good track of time and plan out your day in advance as best you can to know exactly where and when you need to go.
Unless you live right in the heart of the Midtown Theatre District where most auditions occur and can bolt home between auditions, you need to cope with the reality that you’ll have to carry everything on your person that you need for everything you’re planning to do that day. Many performers have solved this issue by investing in a small rolling suitcase or rolling backpack. You can usually fit all you need into these, and it won’t hurt your body from carrying so much stuff on your back or shoulders with other heavy bags and purses. Definitely invest in one before you head into the NYC audition scene.
There’s nothing glamorous about getting ready for auditions in NYC. Sometimes, the audition studios have places to change, and sometimes they don’t. Prepare yourself that you may be stuck changing in the nearest Starbucks or McDonald’s restroom. Once you’ve been on the audition scene for a while, you’ll start to learn the not-so-publicized locations to change into your best duds. Helpful hint: Hotel lobbies and free tourist destinations usually have lovely bathrooms.
With the number of people auditioning, it’s very normal that you can be asked to sing eight, 16 or 32 bars of a song if you’re auditioning for a musical — literally just a snippet of a song to see if you are the voice type they’re looking for. Make sure you have many music options for these types of auditions. It’s usually not said in advance what type of cut will be asked for (as creative teams are often seeing how many people show up to the audition and how much time they have to see auditionees), so be sure to plan your different song options in advance.
Typing occurs a lot. This is when a lot of actors are brought into the audition room at once and the creative team takes a quick look at everyone in person and decides within a few seconds whether they need to see more from you. Everyone who they don’t need to see perform is dismissed. It is a very quick process, and a huge reality in the NYC audition scene. Although this may seem frustrating and unfair, you can choose to look at it as a positive occurrence. If you’re typed out, you can go about with your day and move on to other auditions. If you’re typed in, it means your chances just got better of actually booking the gig.
Getting together with your entire cast before rehearsal and sharing a meal can be a wonderful connecting experience. Really, though, when does food not bring people together?
Those first reviews can be nerve-wracking, so why not do it as a team and endure the anxiety together? Adding a little coffee or cronut to the mix will help sweeten the deal.
Go hit the theatre and see another production to get you psyched up for the one you’re all working on. Nothing sparks conversation among thespians like seeing a show.
OK, so this one is tricky and you shouldn’t do it during an actual performance. But who doesn’t love a good stage game (or, shall we say, stage shenanigan?) One popular option is sneakily passing a small object from actor to actor without the audience or director knowing. Just don’t get caught!
What better way to build togetherness than going out for a group hike, hitting the lanes for some bowling or even playing some mini golf? Quietly getting to know one another in the wings is one thing, but hiking up a snowy mountaintop is quite another. Of course, there’s always karaoke for the less outdoorsy types.
If there’s a movie version of the production you’re in, gather together and watch it as a group — with the bonus of popcorn!
Round up the cast and crew, pick a cause, don your show shirts and give back to your theatre-loving community. Host some volunteer classes for kids, pick up litter in the area or sing at your local retirement home. Performing acts of kindness as a group will surely bring you and your cast together.
[post_title] => 7 Ways To Bond With Your Castmates
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This indie Irish film about two musicians crossing paths is romantic and inspiring. The film’s iconic “Falling Slowly” won best original song at the Oscars, so it’s no surprise this film was adapted into a musical. With music by Glen Hansard and Markéta Irglová, who also starred in the film, it was interesting to see whether the musical could be as effective as the film. The musical turned out to be insanely successful, winning eight Tony Awards, including one for Best Musical.
Why it’s great as a musical: What truly brings this musical to life is the ensemble. They act as dancers, singers and musicians throughout the show, making the whole production feel very organic. The scene of “Gold” alone is brilliant to watch. Having stayed true to the original story and remastered songs, this show brings the music and story alive in a way the film couldn’t do.
This coming-of-age story about a boy who wants to be a professional ballet dancer is both heartwarming and entertaining. The 2000 film the musical is based on won multiple BAFTA awards and was nominated for multiple Oscars as well. What makes both the film and the musical so special is the title character himself. The talent he needs to exude along with the emotional performance is what makes this story so effective. Aside from winning Best Musical at the 2009 Tony Awards, this show made history with a Tony Award first: Three actors were nominated for an award in the same role. David Álvarez, Trent Kowalik, and Kiril Kulish all won the Tony for their portrayal of Billy Elliot.
Why it’s great as a musical: This may be obvious, but the dancing. The title character is dazzling to watch onstage. “Electricity,” based on a speech Billy gives in the film, is particularly impressive. Aside from the amazing dance numbers throughout the show, the main message is to show kids to not be afraid to express themselves, no matter what they want to do.
The 1985 film, based on a book of the same name, stars Whoopi Goldberg in her Golden Globe-winning performance. The film centers around Celie, who endures terrible things throughout her life. Her story is inspiring because she persists despite the odds stacked against her. With producers on the musical such as Quincy Jones and Oprah Winfrey, this musical was set to succeed. Though it was beat out for Best Musical by “Jersey Boys” in 2006, LaChanze did win Best Actress in a Musical for her portrayal of Celie.
Why it’s great as a musical: What truly makes this musical great is how true it is to its predecessors. The musical does not stray away from the tough scenes or the heart of the movie. It only magnifies these things with the amazing soul and gospel music throughout, with “I’m Here” as a particular standout.
Stay away from the people in the audition room or waiting area who seem to be giving off a very nervous energy and/or are having negative conversations. These vampire auditionees suck your positive, prepared energy and can affect your psyche in an unproductive way.
Do everything in your power to keep away from them, as you don’t want to end up having a bad audition because of their attitude. This may mean stepping outside the holding room and waiting in the hallway until your turn is up or finding a corner of the room where no one can bother you.
If by some chances these vampires are friends of yours, don’t be afraid to kindly tell them you are trying to stay focused so you will rock your audition. They should understand. Then, move quickly toward a more positive atmosphere.
Busy your mind to tune out vampires and/or keep any of your own insecurities and inner negative voices at bay. Better yet, keep yourself busy with something that takes you to your happy place, whether you’re watching your favorite television show on your iPad, listening to inspirational music, reading a book, doing yoga stretches, meditating, coloring, doing a crossword puzzle or even continuing to study those sides. Keeping your mind busy and happy means staying present and in the moment, so you won’t be as worried about your impending audition.
Having something fun to do after an audition leads to positivity in the audition, too. Your mind is unconsciously looking forward to what’s next. Also, don’t be afraid to plan to treat yourself to a job well done once your audition is over. This way, you are setting yourself up for success, not failure. Don’t worry — even if you don’t have the best audition, your plans become a way to keep your mind off any bombed or not-so-great auditions once they’re over.
As much as everyone loves to share on social media, don’t tell people (including friends and family) about your auditions before you do them. You are setting yourself up for expectations and the undue pressure and emotional stress put upon you by others who want to ask what it’s for and how you did, give you their opinions of how right or wrong for the part you are or even react negatively as another performer who didn’t land the appointment you did.
Last, if the stress of an important audition is going to wreak havoc on your nerves no matter what you do, stack the deck in your favor. If sides have not been given to you, choose to use material you know you can do in your sleep (figuratively speaking, of course). This way, you can do the best audition you possibly can and won’t be as nervous about it.
On the other side of the coin, if the casting or creative team gives you sides to learn, make sure to get as much practice and performance with the material before the audition as possible. You can even set up a few mock auditions with supportive individuals or mentors, where you can run through them and get out those initial nerves and stress that comes from performing new material for the first time. You’ll be surprised by how quickly practicing your audition in front of people will lessen stress and allow you to have much more fun when it comes time for the real thing.
The famous actress wowed audience members with her Broadway debut performance in ‘Thérèse Raquin,” but there was one attendee whose affections she could have gone without. During the first preview, the show stopped because of Keira Knightley’s stalker.
According to Broadway World, social media was abuzz with the incident, with one user detailing, “Show was stopped because an audience member, who I thought was part of the cast, stood up by the front mezzanine railing and asked Keira Knightley to marry him. He was escorted out, but not before he threw a huge bouquet of flowers from 5 rows up on to the stage.”
Another user wrote, “There was apparently a Keira Knightley stalker at ‘Thérèse Raquin,’ who came in and yelled ‘Christ was born of a virgin! Keira, marry me!’”
A Broadway World member named jacobstf took to the site’s message board to further explain what happened: “After a very awkward silence, Gabriel Ebert motioned to Knightley, they walked over to the bouquet and kicked it into the wings (which got applause). After trying to resume the show, a voice came over the speakers announcing there would be a short break."
Yikes! Ignoring him was definitely the smartest thing to do. After the scary incident, Roundabout, which produced the show, amped up its security measures.
Laura Benanti called out a cell phone ring during a matinee performance of “She Loves Me” on April 2016. The Tony winner was in the middle of singing the emotionally charged song “Will He Like Me?” when she heard the interruption. Like the pro she is, she initially kept singing, softly squeezing a “Hello” into her song. As the ringing persisted, Playbill reported, Benanti became irked, saying “I’ll wait” and then “We’ll all wait” as the orchestra paused with her. As soon as the ringing subsided, Benanti picked up her song exactly where she left off.
The entertainer addressed the incident on Twitter the following day:
She also shared a link to “Look Up,” a song she performed with The Skivvies that is the perfect anecdote for rude theatergoers.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e3FNlo1ft5w
When in doubt, bark! Annaleigh Ashford told Playbill she “thought that something dire must be happening” when an audience member picked up her phone and had a full conversation during a performance of “Sylvia.” How did the Tony winner deal with the disturbance? With a completely in-character dog bark, of course!
“We’re very lucky to be in a play that is set up so that if a cell phone rings, I can bark at it. It’s much easier to recognize and acknowledge it and handle it lightly than in other plays,” Ashford told Playbill. “If the same phone goes off more than once, it’s usually someone who doesn’t know cell phones very well. Well, in this case, the second time it rang, she picked up and answered and started talking. It turned into a full conversation. The audience around her started shushing her, but she kept talking. We could hear it onstage.”
After two pages of dialogue, Ashford recalled that she and costar Matthew Broderick gave up on continuing the scene, as the offending theatregoer was still disrupting the audience.
“It became very clear that the audience was so distracted that they weren’t in the world of the play anymore,” she said.
Finally, someone around the woman helped her to hang up the phone and turn it off.
“We told the audience, ‘We’re going to go back, if you don’t mind,’” Ashford said. “That got applause. We briefly talked about where to go back to, then we took positions and started the scene again. The audience was with us 100 percent.”
It seems like Madonna should have taken a note from her hit song, “Hung Up” and hung up her phone. While she might be an international superstar, the singer was just another audience member when she watched an Off-Broadway performance of “Hamilton” at the Public Theatre. After arriving late, the star was allegedly texting during the show, prompting Miranda himself to ban her from visiting backstage afterward.
“Tonight was the first time I asked stage management NOT to allow a celebrity (who was texting all through Act 2) backstage. #noselfieforyou,” the Pulitzer Prize-winning genius wrote in a since-deleted tweet. That’s right — not even Madonna is excused from being disruptive!
1. Edna Turnblad from ‘Hairspray’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SZmvBigt-HA First played on Broadway by Harvey Fierstein, Edna Turnblad is the loving, protective mother of rising “Corny Collins Show” star Tracy Turnblad. John Travolta played Edna in the 2007 film version of the musical.2. Mary Sunshine from ‘Chicago’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uY6C26FyiYs First performed on Broadway by Michael O’Haughey, Mary Sunshine is a sympathetic new reporter following the murder trials of Roxie and Velma. Although the role is usually done by a man in drag, Christine Baranski played the character in the 2002 film version.3. Sylvia St. Croix from ‘Ruthless’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uLruwucD1AM A sleazy talent agent with a dark secret, Sylvia aspires to turn fame-hungry Tina Denmark into a star.4. Ms. Trunchbull from ‘Matilda’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VfRcovAklV4 The fearsome headmistress of Crunchem Hall, Ms. Trunchbull hates children and stops at nothing to put Matilda and her classmates in their place — or The Chokey.5. Lola from ‘Kinky Boots’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-cvw_bOmqnI A headlining drag queen at a London nightclub, Lola teams up with Charlie to create a brand of high-heeled boots in order to save Charlie’s shoe factory.6. Mrs. Taylor from ‘Bat Boy’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NLOswjpzMuA An aggressive and overbearing mother, Mrs. Taylor seeks to protect her children from the alleged horrors of the Bat Boy. The character is one of Laurence O’Keefe’s few drag roles.7. Lady Hyacinth D’Ysquith from ‘A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oC2lNyBmQFQ An aged, unmarried noble, Lady Hyacinth is a philanthropist who aims to boost her social status by partnering with the right charity.8. Hedwig from ‘Hedwig and the Angry Inch’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZVWMtaAskZg Having survived a botched gender-reassignment surgery, the genderqueer East German rockstar Hedwig Robinson travels to West Germany to find her soulmate.9. Victor/Victoria from ‘Victor/Victoria’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oYJhC1aA3bs Victoria, a financially struggling singer, disguises herself as a man named Victor, who performs as Victoria and quickly becomes the new star of Paris. This role was Julie Andrews’ last role on Broadway.10. Albin/Zaza from ‘La Cage Aux Folles’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yPk7iH1ON8s The aging star of a Saint Tropez nightclub, Albin performs as “Zaza” while running the venue with his husband of 20 years, Georges.11. Bernadette Bassenger from ‘Priscilla, Queen of the Desert’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I-4EjBSul1w In this jukebox musical, the transgender performer Bernadette (originally played by Tony Sheldon) joins Tick and Adam in this comedy of errors throughout their travels in Australia.12. Angel Schunard from ‘Rent’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5G51cIrBvp4 An outrageously flamboyant drag queen percussionist who lives with AIDS, Angel is the love interest of Collins and is one of the best-loved characters in the show.13. Draco Malfoy from ‘A Very Potter Musical’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tS2vjDlmt4w Harry Potter’s rival from the book and film series is transformed here into a flamboyant, obnoxious caricature who unexpectedly develops feelings for Hermione Granger.14. Peter Pan from ‘Peter Pan’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mkn7OxTn1qE Traditionally a trousers role even before Broadway, Peter Pan has been played on Broadway by Mary Martin, Sandy Duncan and Cathy Rigby.15. Pseudolus* from ‘A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f6twfrbUstA Alright, so this one was a one-time occurrence, but Whoopi Goldberg succeeded Nathan Lane in this role for the 1995 Broadway revival of “Forum.” An ancient Roman slave, Pseudolus tries to be free by helping Hero win Philia’s love.What’s your favorite drag role? Let us know in the comments below...
[post_title] => 15 Great Drag Roles In Musical Theatre [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => 15-great-drag-roles-musical-theatre [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2017-06-30 08:54:24 [post_modified_gmt] => 2017-06-30 12:54:24 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=8927 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 1 [filter] => raw ) [2] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 8924 [post_author] => 440 [post_date] => 2017-06-29 10:01:34 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-06-29 14:01:34 [post_content] => Ah, the spring. The flowers are blooming, the weather is warming up and the networks are putting their shiny new pilots on display at the upfronts. Many networks have unveiled their selected pilots for the upcoming television season, and theatre lovers will be thrilled. “Rise,” the story of a high school theatre teacher in a small town, has been ordered as an upcoming series after the trailer garnered positive reviews at the upfronts.Here is what we know about “Rise” so far:
1. Book Roots
Inspirational educator Lou Volpe, a drama teacher at Harry S. Truman high school in small-town Pennsylvania, is the subject of Michael Sokolove’s book, “Drama High,” which provides the basis for the show.
Volpe created what is now a thriving program through his use of contemporary repertoire, with Truman becoming a pilot school for high-school versions of musicals being considered for widespread use.
The book has been transformed into a one-hour drama series that will follow Lou Mazzuchelli as he infuses life into a high-school theatre department.
2. ‘Hamilton’ Meets ‘Friday Night Lights’
As is typically the case these days, there are always six degrees of separation between anything and “Hamilton.” This is no exception. “Hamilton” producer Jeffrey Seller has teamed up with former “Friday Night Lights” showrunner Jason Katims to bring the show to life.
3. A Musical-Loving Network
The show has found its home on NBC, which you may remember was the previous home of “Smash” (may it rest in peace). The network was also the first to launch the live-musical train with “The Sound of Music,” and it recently found acclaim with its live version of “Hairspray.” Next year will see the live musical trend continue on NBC with productions of “Jesus Christ Superstar” and “Bye Bye Birdie” already in the works.
4. Famous Faces
Josh Radnor of “How I Met Your Mother” fame will take on the lead role of Lou Mazzuchelli. Actress and activist Rosie Perez is also listed in the cast, though her role is unknown as of right now. “Stranger Things” fan-favorite Shannon Purser, also known as Barb, is rumored to have a recurring guest spot on the show.
5. Premiere Ballpark
NBC has opted to reserve the show for a mid-season premiere, so the wait for this one will be a bit longer than previously expected.
6. Star on the Rise
While Radnor will be playing the lead, everyone is ready to see whether “Moana” star Auli’i Cravalho will find similar success on the small screen. Given this is a show about musicals, it’s clear she will unleash her killer musical pipes at some point.
7. A Little Lin-Manuel?
The popular “Hamilton” composer must not sleep. How else would he find the time to complete the number of projects he is connected to these days? His name has been attached to “Rise” as well, with Cravalho revealing to TV Guide, “I will let you know that Lin-Manuel had a special part in our show. So, whether or not you’ll see him? You’ll definitely hear him and feel his influence.”
While it’s unclear whether viewers will see interpretations of his hit musicals or perhaps a cameo, it’s certainly increased the buzz around the highly anticipated show.
Musical television shows have had mixed success, from the long-running “Glee” to the short-lived “Smash.” So, it’s hard to tell whether “Rise” will have the potential for multiple seasons. Either way, one thing is for sure: It’s good to have more Broadway on television.
Will you tune in for “Rise” when it airs? Let us know in the comments below...
[post_title] => What We Know About NBC's Upcoming Theatre Show ‘Rise’ [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => what-we-know-nbc-upcoming-theatre-show-rise [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2017-06-29 10:02:27 [post_modified_gmt] => 2017-06-29 14:02:27 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=8924 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [3] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 8920 [post_author] => 391 [post_date] => 2017-06-27 10:04:27 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-06-27 14:04:27 [post_content] => With the contemporary musical theatre scene dominated by mezzo belters and rock tenors, it seems almost impossible to find a lead alto role. A voice part that once reigned supreme on Broadway through roles such as Mama Rose, Mrs. Lovett and Dolly Levi, it’s now reserved mostly for older, secondary characters. However, not all hope is lost for you low, brassy belters! Here are 15 contemporary roles that stand out among the rest:1. Ilse Neumann from ‘Spring Awakening’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EsJdM8acLZQ Ilse has run away from her abusive parents to live in an artists’ community. Although she is not as close to the other characters as Wendla and Melchior, her song “The Dark I Know Well” with Martha is a heartrending depiction of sexual abuse.2. Carmen Bernstein from ‘Curtains’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dDrNaP-dZ0M A more comedic alto role, Carmen is a boisterous, brassy theatre producer who is unhappily married to the luckless producer Sidney. Her solo, “It’s a Business” is sung to her estranged daughter, Bambi.3. Morticia Addams from ‘The Addams Family’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5nQB-_DRSps Morticia is the Addams family matriarch. She always tries to see the good in everyone and is in control emotionally compared to the rest of the family.4. Muzzy Van Hossmere from ‘Thoroughly Modern Millie’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MytP-iiut9A Muzzy is a vocal diva who enjoys the best in life and believes in valuing true love over money.5. Miss Minchin from ‘A Little Princess’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ltko9CNCUrw Miss Minchin is the bitter headmistress of a girls’ school in London. She can’t stand Sara Crewe, a new, popular student, and is jealous of Sara’s high reputation.6. Mother Superior from ‘Sister Act’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AqG0e2sWNlk The dignified, conservative leader of a convent in Philadelphia, Mother Superior is sarcastic yet extremely protective of her loved ones.7. Motormouth Maybelle from ‘Hairspray’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LeLF0ittXS0 A sassy record store owner, Motormouth pushes for “The Corny Collins Show” to become racially integrated.8. Madame Giry from ‘Love Never Dies’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6Wr1VYHLNtY The mother of Meg, a headlining performer at Phantasma, Madame Giry is deeply concerned and furious about the Phantom’s continued obsession with Christine.9. Zoe Murphy from ‘Dear Evan Hansen’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AN9x0v2-deU Coming to terms with the loss of her brother Connor, Zoe befriends Evan after he starts a project to keep Connor’s memory alive.10. Ursula from ‘The Little Mermaid’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8eNnHxFqXqs In the stage version of the classic Disney film, the vengeful Ursula wishes to steal the sea throne from her brother, Triton, this time with more solo music.11. Sonya Rostova from ‘Natasha, Pierre and the Great Comet of 1812’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_HHmHv26tao Sonya is Natasha’s loyal and protective cousin, and she goes out of her way to attempt to stop her elopement with Anatole.12. Adult Alison Bechdel from ‘Fun Home’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iiLjzZAWNwc As an adult, the lesbian author-feminist Alison Bechdel reflects on her life as a child and as a young adult exploring her sexuality while attending Oberlin College.13. Bea from ‘Something Rotten!’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4b3DfzlnuNg Based on the female lead from Shakespeare’s “Much Ado About Nothing,” Bea strives to help her husband’s acting troupe in any way she can, despite his doubts.14. Diana Bingley from ‘I Love You Because’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Way2XGtfwFg Diana is an intelligent actuary who encourages her friend, Marcy, to find her Mr. Wrong before she can be with Mr. Right.15. Claire Zachanassian from ‘The Visit’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UfeJKpM1Gqk When Claire, the richest woman in the world, returns to her hometown, the locals hope her wealth can give them a better life.
Think of a recent alto role that we left off? Let us know in the comments below...
[post_title] => 15 Great Contemporary Roles For Altos [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => 15-great-contemporary-roles-altos [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2017-06-27 15:58:01 [post_modified_gmt] => 2017-06-27 19:58:01 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=8920 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 13 [filter] => raw ) [4] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 8917 [post_author] => 440 [post_date] => 2017-06-26 09:24:45 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-06-26 13:24:45 [post_content] => Whether your show is just for a weekend or running for months, it can feel at times like you live at the theatre. On a two-show day, you do live there. A dressing room becomes your home away from home. Most of the time, they are sparsely equipped, so it’s up to you and your castmates to outfit the place and turn it into an actor’s heaven. Here are 24 items worth having in your dressing room:1. Script
It never hurts to have a quick refresh before the start of the show and during intermission. It’s also good to have for reference, just in case.
2. Pillow and Blanket
Exhaustion and colds are common actor ailments. One a two-show day, getting home can be a difficult feat. A pillow and blanket are perfect when you need to curl up and catch a quick nap or just relax.
3. Plant or Flowers
Keeping plants or flowers around has been known to reduce stress, so having them in the dressing room is ideal for creating a den of Zen to relax in before the show. Just remember to be courteous and check whether any of your fellow dressing roommates has allergies before you choose a plant.
4. Character Inspiration Board
Use a small bulletin board and create an ode to your character. Display pictures, sayings, trinkets and anything that reminds you of the person you are inhabiting. Look at it before the start of every show as you prepare.
5. Mug
Sometimes, water just doesn’t cut it, so have your personal mug handy for when a hot drink is required. Keep your vocal chords in tip-top shape by downing warm water, lemon and honey.
6. Clothing Rack and Hangers
Some places provide clothing storage areas, but this isn’t always the case. Collapsible clothing racks are inexpensive and invaluable when it comes to keeping your things organized and fresh.
7. Makeup Storage
A traveling makeup case is great, but sometimes, it’s nice to have stationary storage you can leave behind at the theatre each night rather than lugging everything back and forth.
8. Speaker
A speaker is crucial for a pre-show pump-up with your favorite playlist. These days, they come in all shapes and sizes, which is great if you are short on space.
9. Water Bottle
It’s been said before, but it’s always worth repeating: You have to hydrate to dominate. Having a refillable water bottle that you can leave at the theatre each night will ensure you are never left high and dry because you forgot it at home.
10. Headphones
Dressing rooms can get crazy, especially when shared by multiple castmates. Throwing on your headphones and blocking out the chaos will help you focus and relax. Just don’t miss your cue!
11. Encouraging Words and Affirmations
When the nerves set in, the doubts will creep up. Combat this by posting up positive messages around the room. Use cards or encouraging words from family and friends, or quotes from those who inspire you.
12. Small Mirror
If you share a dressing room with other actors, mirror space can be difficult to come by. Sometimes, the mirror is nonexistent. Having a freestanding vanity mirror is the perfect solution. It’s also helpful for a closer view when applying items such as fake eyelashes.
13. Fan
The heat from stage lights combined with intense physical activity, costume changes, the usual lack of air conditioning in dressing rooms and the number of bodies in a small space equals a sweaty mess. Stay cool between scenes with a small fan.
14. Power Bar/Power Strips
Outlets can be limited, especially in older theatres. A power bar will keep everyone happy by eliminating the epic struggle for a free outlet.
15. Slippers or Spare Shoes
Give your feet a rest between scenes and throw on a pair of slippers or comfortable shoes. Dance stores also sell warmup booties that keep feet cozy and protected.
16. Clock
These days, few people wear a watch because our phones have become an extra appendage. Many actors prefer to keep their phones stowed away during a performance to avoid breaking their focus. A clock removes the temptation to pull out the phone just to check the time.
17. Reading Material
Keep yourself entertained between scenes with books, newspapers or magazines. You can maybe even research topics related to the show!
18. Robe or Dressing Gown
Once hair and makeup are done, pulling clothes over your head can be difficult. A robe or dressing gown will keep you warm and make it less complicated to change into costumes.
19. Towel
Having a few hand towels is never a bad idea, especially when it comes to keeping sweat at bay or washing off makeup at the end of the night. Just remember to replace them each time you take them home for washing.
20. Electric Kettle
These are useful for making those hot drinks discussed in No. 5.
21. First Aid Kit
You never know what will happen during a show, so having a personal first aid kit complete with bandages and pain-relief medication can be a lifesaver.
22. Mouthwash
This is vital if you are puckering up with any of your castmates onstage. There’s nothing worse than doing a kissing scene and being able to identify your castmate’s last meal.
23. Snacks
It takes a lot of energy to get through a performance, so being hungry will just not do. Have some healthy snacks that are vocal chord-friendly on hand. Just don’t let anyone catch you eating in your costume.
24. Diffuser
Odd smells are not uncommon in dressing rooms, be it mildewy carpet or the fragrant food of the restaurant next door. A diffuser will combat the smell and freshen the place up. Again, make sure everyone who shares the space is on board before you set one up.
Putting yourself in the right mindframe before a performance is as crucial as the time spent rehearsing. Having a space with little touches that makes it feel like your own can help you give the best performance possible.
What are your dressing room essentials? Let us know in the comments below...
[post_title] => 24 Essentials For Your Dressing Room [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => 24-essentials-dressing-room [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2017-07-21 23:16:18 [post_modified_gmt] => 2017-07-22 03:16:18 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=8917 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 2 [filter] => raw ) [5] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 8788 [post_author] => 12 [post_date] => 2017-06-24 09:23:45 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-06-24 13:23:45 [post_content] => [viralQuiz id=50] [post_title] => Quiz: Can We Guess How Superstitious You Are On Opening Night? [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => quiz-can-guess-superstitious-opening-night [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2019-03-14 12:03:38 [post_modified_gmt] => 2019-03-14 16:03:38 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=8788 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 1 [filter] => raw ) [6] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 8887 [post_author] => 736 [post_date] => 2017-06-23 10:26:11 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-06-23 14:26:11 [post_content] => Whether you plan to spend a lifetime working backstage or onstage, internships are a proven way to get you started in the career you’ve always dreamed of. Here are five reasons why internships can help your performing arts career:1. You’ll Get Opportunities to Network
Many times, it’s not about what you know, but more about who you know. An internship is a great way to start networking with industry professionals and build a connection with the creatives who could hire you for a job in the future. You couldn’t ask for a better situation for those in the business to easily get to know your personality, work ethics and talents.
2. They Put the ‘In’ in ‘Internship’
With an internship, you are basically gaining entry into the place where you are working, which could very easily open the door for other dream opportunities with them in the future. Just make sure to work hard and always put your best foot forward to create a positive impression that will last a lifetime.
3. You’ll Learn the Basics
Through an internship, you can find out whether you have what it takes as you get to know the basics of your chosen performing arts field. This will act as your foundation and stepping stone for the jobs you’ll apply for in the future that will ultimately require larger skill sets and more responsibility.
4. You Can Find Out Whether It’s Something You Really Want to Do
Sometimes you may be uncertain whether you want to pursue a career in the performing arts field and/or which parts you want to spend a lifetime in. Perhaps you may even want to do a bit of everything. Internships are a great way to explore your options, whether you want to be onstage, backstage or somewhere in between.
5. You’ll Find a Support System
In a career path that is uncertain and can have many ups and downs, those you meet in the trenches of your internships may possibly become your friends and support system for years to come. They will be there to hold your hand, guide you and lift you up during your journey in show business.
Tell us about your experiences as an intern in the comments below...
[post_title] => 5 Reasons Internships Help Your Performing Arts Career [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => 5-reasons-internships-help-performing-arts-career [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2017-06-24 08:46:19 [post_modified_gmt] => 2017-06-24 12:46:19 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=8887 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [7] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 8884 [post_author] => 717 [post_date] => 2017-06-22 11:14:13 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-06-22 15:14:13 [post_content] => The movie musical is a beloved genre that built Hollywood and still thrives today with movies such as “La La Land,” “Into the Woods” and “Beauty and the Beast.” However, just because a movie isn’t a musical doesn’t mean things can’t get a little theatrical! In fact, some of the best examples of movies with surprise musical numbers have eventually been adapted for the stage, such as “Young Frankenstein,” “The Wedding Singer, “Monty Python and the Holy Grail” and “The Producers.” The following are 15 great musical moments from non-musical movies, in no particular order:1. ‘My Little Buttercup’ from ‘The Three Amigos’ (1986)
https://youtube.com/watch?v=Zh7eAG2jJkA “The Three Amigos” is about three suddenly out-of-work Hollywood dandies who are hired to help rescue a Mexican village from fearsome bandits, though they think it’s a performance and are unaware the danger is very real. Steve Martin, Chevy Chase and Martin Short star as the titular amigos while at arguably the peaks of their careers. There were actually a few musical numbers in this film, all written by Randy Newman, who makes a voice cameo as the singing bush. However, the audience participation in “My Little Buttercup” makes it our favorite. Bonus Song: ‘Blue Shadows on the Trail' https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iB89FIStq7Y2. ‘Love Will Keep Us Together’ from ‘Get Over It’ (2001)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CJSQKtx5tVQ One of the many teen comedies of the early ‘00s, “Get Over It” was much quirkier than its contemporaries. The plot, loosely based on “A Midsummer’s Night Dream,” concerns Berke Landers, who joins the high school’s musical production of “Midsummer” to get close to his ex. The show the students put on was written by film and Broadway legends Marc Shaiman and Scott Wittman. In the opening of the film, Berke gets dumped by his girlfriend, Allison, and the movie goes full-on musical. Love it! Bonus Song: ‘Midsummer Night's Dream’ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nET7V9DsWgo3. ‘The Babysitting Blues’ from ‘Adventures in Babysitting’ (1987)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bymE4SuxyR0 Elisabeth Shue starred in this not-quite family-friendly movie. She plays a babysitter who takes a group of suburban kids on a wild trek through downtown Chicago. While being chased by some bad dudes, the bunch winds up onstage with blues legend Albert “Iceman” Collins. And, as Collins states, “Nobody leaves without singing the blues.” The movie also features a very young Anthony Rapp playing a sex-obsessed teen who worms his way into the plot. Bonus Song: ‘Then He Kissed Me’ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xFrecN_dsPc4. ‘I Say A Little Prayer’ from ‘My Best Friend’s Wedding’ (1997)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d-J4xYOxJ9w This 1997 romantic comedy starring Julia Roberts and Cameron Diaz has so many songs, it’s shocking it hasn’t been adapted for the stage. The musical highlight, though, has to be when Roberts’ character’s debonair gay best friend pretends to be her boyfriend and gets a little theatrical when asked how they met. Bonus Songs: ‘Wishin’ and Hopin’ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c74BSImG4xM ‘I Just Don’t Know What to Do With Myself’ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EA8sWvlBx1U5. ‘Billy’s Victory Song’ from ‘Billy Madison’ (1995)
https://youtube.com/watch?v=YGeFi3Ap61E “Billy Madison,” about a man-child who must quickly repeat grades 1–12 in order to inherit his father’s Fortune 500 company, launched the movie career of Adam Sandler and gave every middle-school boy countless lines to quote ad nauseum. The movie was written by Sandler and Tim Herlihy, the same team behind “The Wedding Singer,” who knew the importance of a good eleven o’clock number, even if you’re not in a musical. Bonus Song: ‘Back to School’ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uMtkiS1SU_c6. ‘The Mamushka’ from ‘The Addams Family’ (1991)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CCNyHprEZK8&t Another film very close to people’s hearts, “The Addams Family” has a great number with music by Shaiman and lyrics by none other than Betty Comden and Adolph Green. Mind. Blown. The song is sung by Raul Julia (Gomez Addams), who was a Broadway star in his own right and the original Guido in “Nine.” Look for Shaiman himself as the creepy conductor. Bonus Song: ‘Eat Me!’ (technically from Addams Family Values, but whatevs) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p7v-LQsQKoY7. ‘Day-O’ from ‘Beetlejuice’ (1988)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AQXVHITd1N4 Even though this musical moment is lip-synced, it’s too much fun and iconic not to be included. Geena Davis and Alec Baldwin are newly-deads who try to scare away their home’s new owners and avoid the “ghost with the most” Beetlejuice, played brilliantly by Michael Keaton. There is a Broadway version of “Beetlejuice” in workshop right now, with Alex Timbers directing and Chris Fitzgerald (“Wicked,” “Waitress”), playing the title role. Bonus Song: The intro from the awesome ‘90s animated version of “Beetlejuice” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KZIsSQQy96A8. ‘Cuban Pete’ from ‘The Mask’ (1994)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-dyO9SWiY7k Jim Carrey had a very good year in 1994. That year, he starred in “Ace Ventura: Pet Detective,” “Dumb and Dumber” and “The Mask,” all of which were big box-office hits. In “The Mask,” Carrey plays Stanley Ipkiss, who finds an enchanted mask that turns him into a cartoon-like superhero. When ambushed by the police, “The Mask” begins a big production number to distract them. Bonus Song: ‘Gee Baby, Ain’t I Good to You?’ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_27x3M410Og9. ‘Holding Out For a Hero’ from ‘Shrek 2’ (2004)
https://youtube.com/watch?v=puTtnqoqHLQ While the first “Shrek” film became a Broadway musical in 2008, none of the sequels have been adapted, which is probably for the better since musical sequels rarely ever succeed. However, one musical moment stands out in “Shrek 2.” Sung by “Ab Fab” star Jennifer Saunders as the not-so-nice Fairy Godmother, “Holding Out for a Hero” is both hysterical and downright thrilling. Bonus Song: ‘Livin’ La Vida Loca’ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SXUG9zTpI_w10. ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’ from ‘Wayne’s World’ (1992)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=thyJOnasHVE Another entry that involves lip-syncing, “Wayne’s World,” starring Mike Myers and Dana Carvey, is a comedy classic. While joy-riding around town, Queen’s “Bohemian Rhapsody” plays, and Wayne and Garth get into it with car-ography and everything. And now, thanks to the film, you cannot hear that song without head-banging during the guitar solo. Bonus Song: ‘Foxy Lady’ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ue0UpQBmA5s11. ‘Johnny B. Goode’ from ‘Back to the Future’ (1985)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S1i5coU-0_Q This number utilizes a classic element of movie musicals: voice dubbing. Marty McFly, played by Michael J. Fox, travels back in time with the help of Doc Brown and a souped-up DeLorean. Through a whole mess of twists and turns, McFly performs at his parents’ senior prom. However, the voice you hear is not Fox — it’s Mark Campbell, who has done voice-overs for dozens of movies and TV shows.12. ‘Somebody to Love’ from ‘Ella Enchanted’ (2004)
https://youtube.com/watch?v=1bffIJDTrEM Before her award-winning turn as Fantine in the movie version of “Les Misérables,” Anne Hathaway showed off her singing skills in “Ella Enchanted,” a fairy tale with a twist. Here, Hathaway must sing for a ton of giants and totally rocks “Somebody to Love,” made famous by Queen. Bonus Song: ‘Don’t Go Breaking My Heart’ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q2wwmzbxwN413. ‘I Put a Spell on You’ from ‘Hocus Pocus’ (1993)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zaC-WDrvmUQ The Halloween classic stars Sarah Jessica Parker, Kathy Najimy and current Broadway Dolly Bette Midler as the wicked Sanderson Sisters, who are brought back to life in Salem, Massachusetts, on Halloween night. It was directed by Kenny Ortega, who directed “Newsies” and the “High SChool Musical” trilogy. In this number, the Sanderson Sisters infiltrate a Halloween party and use their hypnotic voices to put a spell on the unsuspecting adults. It’s only a matter of time before we see a Broadway version of this movie! Bonus Song: ‘Sarah’s Theme’ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gEYgyWC_BpM14. ‘Twist and Shout’ from ‘Ferris Bueller’s Day Off’ (1986)
https://youtube.com/watch?v=tgd46QiHz4I “Life moves pretty fast. If you don’t stop to look around once in awhile, you could miss it.” These are the iconic words of Ferris Bueller after his legendary day off. With his best friend and girlfriend in tow, Ferris had an epic adventure throughout Chicago, culminating in a massive lip-sync of “Twist and Shout” on a parade float. It’s nearly impossible not to get into the spirit of living life to the fullest while watching this number! Bonus Song: ‘Danke Schoen’ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WHCS7uG4lkw15. ‘Men In Tights’ from ‘Robin Hood: Men in Tights’ (1993)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G59JnM4JKNQ Mel Brooks is certainly no stranger to musicals. In fact, almost every movie he’s made has had some kind of big, Broadway-type number. One of our favorites, though, has to be the big title song from “Robin Hood: Men in Tights.” A spoof of all the great Robin Hood films, Brooks’ take brings Cary Elwes, Dave Chappelle and Amy Yasbeck into the tale of the hero who steals from the rich and gives to the poor. In this number, the Merry Men take pride in their outfit of choice. Bonus Song: ‘Marian’ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3yNOXJT5iKQ We could probably make a list of dozens more numbers that have given movie audiences a quick Broadway diversion. Let’s hope the movie musicals are here to stay and more films will at least give us a number or two.Did we leave off your favorite song from a non-musical film? Tell us in the comments below...
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[post_title] => Quiz: Which 'Phillipa Soo' Are You?
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[post_content] => Belting can be one of the best ways to get out pent-up energy, and luckily for a good mezzo, belting songs are pretty common in musicals. They are essentially the power ballad of Broadway, and the audience lives for that. For mezzos, it’s the perfect way to showcase your voice and just let it all out onstage.
Here are some of the best songs to let out your inner belting diva:
1. ‘And I Am Telling You, I’m Not Going’ from ‘Dreamgirls’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QsiSRSgqE4E The Dreamgirls know exactly how to represent women working hard and getting it done for their careers. Divas don’t get days off, and they aren’t torn down by people. This song will not only push you to be better, but it will definitely push your vocal range.2. ‘Glitter and Be Gay’ from ‘Candide’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aVsLMxam21I Want to really show off your classical range and express your creativity all in one song? This one’s for you. This is one of the more technically challenging songs, but with a bit of improv and creativity, you can change some of the fun runs in the song. The audience is sure to see the glitter in your performance as you feel like a true prima donna.3. ‘There’s No Business Like Show Business’ from ‘Annie Get Your Gun’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4lakGIwI9u0 Everything about this song is appealing to a belter. It represents all that is wonderful and magical about the stage. It’s one of the more well-known songs on this list, but it’s also one of the best belting songs for altos. You can feel like a showboat and hit all those happy notes.4. ‘Bless the Lord’ from ‘Godspell’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MG3wP349nuI Praise the lord (and Stephen Schwartz) for this belter’s dream of a song. If you need a little soul in your belt, this is an excellent song to bring back that swing and show off your incredible belting skills.5. ‘Adelaide’s Lament’ from ‘Guys and Dolls’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uBK-0W4MG28 A diva can’t just sit around waiting for her man to make all the moves — instead, she laments on what’s going on in her life and then demands things change. Just like when Adelaide discovers she needs to fix her cold, you can see the fire in her eyes to get Nathan to commit.6. ‘Morning Person’ from ‘Shrek the Musical’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E_TcJdzbHvo Princess Fiona is surely the diva of the Kingdom of Duloc, and she’s not afraid to get up early and sing out. You shouldn’t be afraid to bust this underrated tune out if you’re feeling like hitting some high notes in the morning.7. ‘Xanadu’ from ‘Xanadu’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C5xwhULk_7k When it comes to singing, do you dare go to a place where nobody dared to go? Do you love to challenge yourself with range and depth? This song will take you to that place, and you can groove along while you sing.8. ‘My New Philosophy’ from ‘You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=060nwhVzzlw This song is not only great to show off your range, but it’s oozing with sass, making it the perfect tune for a diva who is interested in showing off her stuff. You’ll definitely feel like you own the stage when you take this one on.9. ‘Diva’s Lament’ from ‘Spamalot’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Le77a4nmKoA The title just about says it all. This classic diva song is perfect for getting out all of your frustrations. It’s your time to shine, thank-you-very-much, and this song will help remind you just how capable you are.10. ‘Special’ from ‘Avenue Q’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vttQxqFZQYk Just like any true professional, you know you can make people feel special with your talent. You can own the stage with sex appeal and show off your musical talents.11. ‘I Ain’t Down Yet’ from ‘The Unsinkable Molly Brown’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eKFRekX-LrU There’s nothing like a song that can help you overcome anything. This song and musical truly represent all the independent and fighting women of the world. You’ll be hitting some unsinkable notes and feeling pretty confident by the end of this one.12. 'A Change in Me’ from ‘Beauty and the Beast’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K3RxIZG15n8 Good can come from bad if you practice enough. This song from the “Beauty and the Beast” musical can remind you of how far you’ve come in your singing and life, and it will leave you feeling like a true princess.13. ‘Defying Gravity’ from ‘Wicked’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BHOBHM935co Let’s face it, how can you make a list about belting and not add this song? It’s a classic example of how inspiring lyrics and a powerful voice can really make you feel confident. After belting this song, you can definitely take on bigger and bigger challenges.What songs do you love that help you release your inner belting diva? Let us know in the comments below...
[post_title] => 13 Songs For Your Inner Belting Diva [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => 13-songs-inner-belting-diva [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2017-06-20 08:25:20 [post_modified_gmt] => 2017-06-20 12:25:20 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=8879 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 21 [filter] => raw ) [10] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 8872 [post_author] => 440 [post_date] => 2017-06-18 12:15:07 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-06-18 16:15:07 [post_content] => “Saturday Night Live” just wrapped up for another year after enjoying a star-studded 42nd season. The second episode of the season saw Broadway and television collide when “Hamilton” genius Lin-Manuel Miranda was invited to host. While a host with a career primarily in the musical theatre world is a rarity, “SNL” has tapped into the theatre scene over the years for inspiration. Here are our favorite “SNL” sketches about musical theatre:1. Crucible Cast Party
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nkjjtX83-Cc It’s Miranda and Kate McKinnon together. Is there anything better? This genius sketch sees a group of high school drama kids narrating all the stereotypical moments of a post-production cast party. It’s hilariously accurate, and Miranda is a natural as he adds his trademark raps to the mix.2. Anne Hathaway’s Les Mis Monologue
Three-time host Anne Hathaway busted out her killer pipes again when she opened the show with a tribute to “Les Misérables,” a movie that would later win her the Oscar. The cast members dream of what they will do with their upcoming day off, and Hathaway finishes the performance with a stunning, Julie Andrews-style high note. Check it out HERE3. High School Musical 4
(Click to play)
Zac Efron has really embraced his strength as a comedic actor over the past few years, but that route is no surprise after seeing his hilarious “SNL” spoof of his days as Troy Bolton in the hit Disney trilogy “High School Musical.” Efron shines alongside “SNL” legends Andy Samberg, Kristen Wiig, Kenan Thompson and Bobby Moynihan as he gives a speech warning graduates that life is not a musical outside of high school.
4. Save Broadway
https://vimeo.com/40039983 This sketch from Season 34 guest stars Neil Patrick Harris and Taylor Swift and is overflowing with famous SNL cast members, including Jason Sudeikis as a sarcastic and frustrated Phantom. Harris is brilliant in his portrayal of Mark from “Rent,” while the rest of the cast take on characters from some of Broadway’s most famous shows and present their half-baked ideas for how to save the failing theatre scene.5. A Whole New World
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BIcHwskTu8k “Girls” actor and “Star Wars” villain Adam Driver displays his musical abilities alongside “SNL” darling Cecily Strong, playing Disney sweethearts Aladdin and Jasmine. The parody of the Disney classic “A Whole New World” shows a more realistic version of the carpet ride, including a bird flying into them and being hit by airplane waste. But, in true musical theatre fashion, the show must go on.6. Before the Show
https://vimeo.com/213459545 The ladies of SNL hit the nail on the head once again as they satirize an elementary school production of “Legally Blonde.” The backstage conversations are as humorous as the onstage action, with bumbled circular choreography, singing that is too quiet to be heard and a majority-female cast. It’s priceless.7. High School Theater Show
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HPAtpAelwe4 This recurring skit has several different versions featuring other celebrity hosts, including Emma Stone and Reese Witherspoon. It’s hard to say what’s funnier, the student scenes featuring Elizabeth Banks or the comments from the exaserated parents in the audience, played by Thompson and Vanessa Bayer. Parents of theatre kids everywhere will be able to relate to this one.8. Lin-Manuel Miranda’s ‘My Shot’ Monologue
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AsupmN90wBk Yes, Miranda’s already on this list, but it would be crazy to ignore his opening monologue, inspired by “Hamilton.” Strolling through the “SNL” studios, he drops truth bombs and even has a clever bit with “SNL” producer Lorne Michaels.9. ‘50s Romance
https://www.hulu.com/watch/455132 It’s the ladies of “SNL” who once again steal the show, this time in a sketch inspired by “Grease.” Strong’s Angie relives her date with Justin Bieber’s not-so-bright Billy, and the reactions from her friends are sensational. Bieber does little to add to the comedy but does provide a nice vocal run at the end. Any actor can attest to the difficulty of performing in a live show, whether it’s theatre or television. Preparedness for that element can make or break an “SNL” host. Broadway actors face that challenge eight times a week and are the masters of improvisation when things go awry. With that in mind, here’s hoping more Broadway faces will grace the “SNL” stage in upcoming seasons. Andrew Rannells, anyone?Have a favorite sketch that we missed? Which Broadway performers would you like to see host “SNL?” Let us know in the comments below...
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[post_title] => Quiz: How Well Do You Remember These 'In The Heights' Lyrics?
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[post_content] => High adventure! The city of Agrabah cheered this past weekend when Telly Leung made his highly anticipated debut as Aladdin a few days early. The Broadway veteran, who was most recently seen in “In Transit,” made one jump ahead on his schedule, excitedly writing on Instagram: “Well, that happened! The incredible @aladdin team got me ready a bit early and I made my debut tonight as Aladdin – a few days early. Thanks to everyone at Agrabah for welcoming me with such love and warmth!”
Lucky for us Theatre Nerds, we caught up with the 37-year-old superstar a day before he hopped on the magic carpet for the first time. Check out our interview with Broadway’s newest Aladdin below:
[caption id="attachment_8857" align="alignnone" width="502"] Leung backstage during his first “Aladdin” performance / Photo: Instagram/@tellyleung[/caption]
Theatre Nerds: Congratulations on stepping into Aladdin! How has the journey compared to the many other shows you've worked on? I imagine being under Disney is magically different.
Telly Leung: This is my seventh Broadway show, and my second time replacing. I replaced Robin De Jesus in “Rent” on Broadway in 2006. Most of my Broadway experience has been originating roles, which has its own challenges: the pressure (and joy) of creating something from scratch, the constant changes during previews (what song is cut? What are the new lyrics? What joke are we trying out tonight?). But, there is a certain ownership of the material and the process that comes with originating a role.
Replacing in a show, especially in a role this big, has been a challenge. An actor always feels this constant pressure to play catch-up with the rest of the company. Luckily, I have a wonderful, warm, patient company at Agrabah, and everyone has been so supportive throughout the process. It’s truly a top-notch company. I feel very lucky.
TN: That’s wonderful! The “first look” pictures of you are awesome! Does it feel wild to be entering the world of such a beloved film?
TL: Thank you! Bravo to Matt Murphy, one of my favorite photographers in New York. There is certainly pressure to not disappoint all those people who have such a soft spot in their heart for the 1992 film. I count myself as one of those fans! All I can do is bring my sense of truth and honesty to the show, moment to moment, and attempt (to the best of my ability) to fill the big shoes left to me by the amazing Adam Jacobs, who originated the role.
TN: Did your “Allegiance” costar Lea Salonga, who is, of course, famous for voicing Jasmine and Mulan in the animated films, offer up any advice?
TL: My show-sister Lea didn’t offer any advice, but I loved hearing her talk about her wonderful experience being not one, but two Disney princesses. She had the most wonderful things to say about Alan Menken and what a warm person he is. I got to meet Alan recently at an event in Los Angeles, and it’s always a relief when you meet your heroes and they end up being as warm and down-to-earth as you hope they’d be!
TN: When you first watched the musical, what moment were you most excited to get a chance to do?
TL: Of course, I was excited to fly on that magic carpet. It’s a moment of pure stage magic that truly takes your breath away. But I was also excited to tackle “Proud of Your Boy,” Aladdin’s big “I want” song in Act 1. It’s a song that was cut from the movie, but it’s beautifully written by Alan Menken and Howard Ashman — and it has found new life in the stage production. It’s such a great exploration of Aladdin’s character, and I enjoy singing it every night!
TN: Aladdin is quite a demanding role, both physically and vocally. What measures have you been taking to prepare and to maintain stamina for the run?
TL: Aladdin is a beast of a role. One must stay healthy, hydrated and in shape to tackle it eight times a week. I eat right. I exercise. I rest. I drink lots of water. I take voice lessons. It’s a very disciplined life, but it’s worth it.
TN: I’m sure! Fresh off your incredible turn in the a-capella musical “In Transit,” have you taken anything you've learned from that experience and applied it to this one?
TL: Yes! I learned so much about myself vocally in “In Transit.” We all had to be vocal athletes in that show, and it was a lesson in stamina and preservation while still giving a full performance. I’ve certainly taken those lessons with me to the New Am!
“In Transit” was also a tight-knit company — a family — where everyone depended on each other. There was no lead. We were all part of an ensemble. I think this is an important dynamic to have in the theatre — even if the show has a lead. I’m playing the title character of “Aladdin” — what you may call the lead — but I don’t like to think of myself as the lead. I like to think of myself as part of a large ensemble of about 100 people — made up of dancers, actors, dressers, crew, stage, managers, ushers — that all make up the show that is “Aladdin.” That “little show,” family mentality is something I’d like to maintain and encourage during my time at Agrabah, even though it’s an enormous show.
TN: What are you most hoping your portrayal of Aladdin will give audiences?
TL: When I was in rehearsal, I had the pleasure of watching the show every night. I got to experience the emotional magic carpet ride the audience feels night after night at the New Am. The show itself is beautifully constructed, with great songs and a great story. All I have to do is take the audience with me on a little emotional rollercoaster and have them get on that ride with Aladdin.
TN: Although you're living the dream right now, if you had a Genie suddenly poof into your life, what would your three wishes be?
TL: 1. I'd wish for the ability to fly like Superman.
2. I’d wish to go back in time and see all the Broadway shows I was too young to see! Can you imagine seeing the original productions of “Gypsy,” “Mame” and “Carousel?!”
3. I'd wish for a new president in the White House.
TN: What's your best piece of advice for aspiring performers?
TL: Theatre is an art that doesn’t happen in a vacuum. It’s not like you’re a sculptor or a painter who can create art by himself or herself. It takes a village. Treat everyone in the collaborative process with respect, because no one job is more important than the other. The lead of the show is just as important as the person who does props or whose sole job is to sweep the stage every night.
TN: To end on a rather "Theatre Nerds-esque” note, I'm wondering if you've ever had a moment when you totally geeked out over a Broadway performer upon meeting them?
TL: I met Carol Channing once. I was in the presence of greatness. She was warm, charming, funny and made everyone around her feel like they were an old friend. That’s a star!
Thank you, Telly! You can catch him flying over Broadway now at the New Amsterdam Theatre in “Aladdin.”
[post_title] => Interview: Telly Leung On Stepping Into Aladdin, His Three Wishes And More! [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => interview-telly-leung-stepping-aladdin-three-wishes [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2017-06-19 16:49:04 [post_modified_gmt] => 2017-06-19 20:49:04 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=8856 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [13] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 8853 [post_author] => 440 [post_date] => 2017-06-15 09:38:03 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-06-15 13:38:03 [post_content] => “Rent” is the musical that just keeps on giving. It has been tugging at the heartstrings of audiences for two decades, with countless stage productions worldwide and even a big-screen adaptation in 2005 with several members of the original cast. Still riding the success of “Grease Live!” Fox has announced that “Rent” is now on the docket as its next live musical. With few details on the production available, the question remains of who will play Jonathan Larson’s iconic characters. Here are some possible actors we’d like to see considered for “Rent Live:”1. Leslie Odom Jr.
Best known for his Tony Award-winning performance as Aaron Burr in “Hamilton,” Leslie Odom Jr. has actually appeared in a Broadway production of “Rent,” as well as a staging of “Tick, Tick...Boom!” alongside Lin-Manuel Miranda and Karen Olivo. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DF7yJKpqdzk2. Anna Kendrick
Will someone please put this woman in a live musical, already? Anna Kendrick has proven time and time again that she has some serious vocal abilities and continues to wow audiences in movie-musical roles. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NiImvQTI5ZE3. Ben Platt
Broadway and film favorite Ben Platt is a triple-threat talent riding high on the success of award-season favorite “Dear Evan Hansen.” Casting him in “Rent Live” would please both his Broadway and movie fans. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LiOkfnkDxwg4. Amber Riley
Yes, the former “Glee” star has already done a live television musical, appearing in NBC’s “The Wiz” back in 2015. However, that just means she can bring experience as well as the incredible vocals she’s currently turning heads with in “Dreamgirls” on the West End. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nrsSf1RpHOc5. Jonathan Groff
Jonathan Groff has seemingly done it all, from theatre, television and movies to voice work for the film you can never really get away from, “Frozen.” The only thing left would be a live television musical. He really should check this one off his list! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QT4NbW8evhQ6. Denée Benton
Tony-nominated actress Denée Benton made her Broadway debut this past year in “Natasha, Pierre and the Great Comet of 1812” and created quite the buzz. The “Rent Live” musical would be a great opportunity for this rising musical theatre star. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=emxtq4lxVhE7. Daveed Diggs
Since his exit from “Hamilton,” Daveed Diggs has been awfully busy acting, rapping, producing and giving the world intense hair envy. Diggs would be a welcome addition to “Rent Live,” as he is a natural both onstage and in front of the camera. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PEHKBckBcr48. Lea Michele
It’s somewhat surprising Lea Michele has yet to participate in a live musical given both her Broadway and television history. Her triple-threat status would make her a natural fit. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cLSdCLm92PM9. Jordan Fisher
One of the problems with the successful “Grease Live!” was not enough Jordan Fisher. His vocal ability is stunning, and “Rent Live” deserves him. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0DLzyvT4eUo10. Renee Elise Goldsberry
The “Hamilton” star was the last actress to play Mimi in the Broadway version of “Rent,” so it seems fitting the powerhouse performer should join the cast of the live television event. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w48UFnGMwqo11. Skylar Astin
Skylar Astin is equally talented as his fictional “Pitch Perfect” roommate, Platt. He also boasts some “Rent” experience, having played the role of Mark in the star-studded production produced by Neil Patrick Harris at the Hollywood Bowl. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d5IqcP0E6xs12. Karen Olivo
Tony Award-winning actress Olivo is a Broadway favorite and has some television experience. Her electric voice and onstage sass make her the perfect fit for the television musical. She can do “Hamilton” in Chicago and “Rent Live,” right? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B_FvvrBO6s813. Darren Criss
When Broadway and television actor Darren Criss hosted the behind-the-scenes experience of “Hairspray Live,” the question on everyone’s mind was why he wasn’t in the performance. Hopefully, viewers won’t miss out on seeing Criss perform this time around. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h1kHuV4rGqw14. Kelley Jakle
While Kelley Jakle’s resume lists her as a three-time Bella in the “Pitch Perfect” series along Kendrick, she’s also a regular in the California theatre scene, with starring roles in “Marilyn” and an adaptation of the film “Almost Famous.” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fc3HiJ_kFwk15. Corbin Bleu
Formerly of “High School Musical” fame, Corbin Bleu has proven he’s more than just a Disney kid. It’s safe to say he’s familiar with the cameras, and with Broadway roles in productions of “In the Heights” and “Holiday Inn,” he’s proving to be a natural fit for a live television musical. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yd-8_Jkexjc16. Ester Dean
A staple of the “Pitch Perfect” series, Esther Dean is a fan favorite and a triple threat ready for her television musical debut. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aNV6UtkYPU417. Justin Timberlake
He can sing, he can dance and he’s so good on live television that he’s hosted “Saturday Night Live” five times. Enough said. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6A6BkL3DW6g18. Ashleigh Murray
Ashleigh Murray caught her big break when she scored the role of Josie McCoy in the Archie Comics reboot, “Riverdale,” and showed off her musical talent as the lead singer of the famed Josie and the Pussycats. With her career just taking off, it would be interesting to see Murray expand into musical theatre. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ffW17Ym9JLE19. Blake Jenner
“Glee” alum Blake Jenner can undoubtedly sing and dance, and his recent performance as Hailee Steinfeld’s brooding brother in “The Edge of Seventeen” gives credit to his ability to take on the serious emotional content of “Rent.” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jqLrp3QwcAk Regardless of casting, “Rent Live” is guaranteed to be a performance worth watching. Most importantly, the show will continue the legacy of Larson, spreading his message of love and acceptance to a new generation of fans worldwide.Who would you like to see cast in “Rent Live?” Let us know in the comments below...
[post_title] => 19 Actors We Want To See In ‘Rent Live’ [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => 19-actors-want-see-rent-live [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2017-06-15 09:38:03 [post_modified_gmt] => 2017-06-15 13:38:03 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=8853 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 2 [filter] => raw ) [14] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 8848 [post_author] => 391 [post_date] => 2017-06-14 08:30:50 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-06-14 12:30:50 [post_content] => “There’s a war going on out there somewhere…” Based on Book 8 of Leo Tolstoy’s “War and Peace,” “Natasha, Pierre and the Great Comet of 1812” is about as contemporary as contemporary musical theatre can get. It’s the result of mixing the bleak melodrama of shows such as “Spring Awakening” with the furious passion of every pop-opera ever written. While the term “electropop opera” is a slight misnomer here (there is plenty of rock influence, too), Dave Malloy’s musical is one of the most finely crafted shows of the decade. It has not one, but two magnificent cast albums, each distinct from the other in their strengths and weaknesses. Here are my thoughts:‘What About Pierre?’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VvAHdm8sCRQ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JcVcYT2TBAo One of the biggest surprises to me with the Broadway cast was hearing Josh Groban as Pierre Bezukhov. At first, I was a tad nervous about hearing Groban as “dear, bewildered and awkward Pierre.” Even after hearing him in the 2008 “Chess” concert, I was unsure of how he would do in a more rock-sounding show. Luckily, Groban’s versatility never fails him, especially as the titular hero. He might not have the natural rock inflections of Malloy, but Groban’s robust tenor gives Pierre a more heroic quality. His performance on “Dust and Ashes,” a new soliloquy for the Broadway transfer, is a welcome gem. With this musical being Groban’s Broadway debut, I hope it is the start of more appearances (and Tony nominations!) for him on the Great White Way.‘Natasha Is Young’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vMgSjwgp1Hc https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OL6GLr3k_Vo Among the two Natasha Rostovas, Phillipa Soo has a beautiful falsetto, which makes me wonder why she doesn’t pursue more soprano roles. The range of emotions she displays (from confusion and naïveté to anger) is broader than anything she was given as a Schuyler sister. She is quite a womanly sounding Natasha, which is a contrast to Denée Benton's more ingénue-like and, at times, more pop-sounding Natasha.‘Hélène Is a Slut, Anatole Is Hot, Marya’s Old-School, Sonya’s Good…’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vGmWnklOKRE https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3HzGp1I2Qqg In the words of Hélène Kuragina, all of the returning cast members give charming performances, with a few standouts. Grace McLean remains delightful as Marya Dmitriyevna, though she sounds more regal in the Off-Broadway cast album and more boisterous in the Broadway recording (think “Les Misérables” factory worker). Lucas Steele is still spectacularly menacing as the conniving Anatole, even if his vocals are somewhat more subtle/sotto voce during parts of the Broadway recording. Brittain Ashford and Amber Gray deliver terrific reprises as Sonya and Hélène, respectively. Ashford remains convincing as Natasha’s concerned cousin, while Gray brings every last bit of soulful sass to the forefront.‘Miiinnorrrr Charaacctterrrrssss’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hKgRLHbVSYU https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=STzIIYf3iS0 As for the chorus, the ensemble sounds more polished and unified in the Broadway recording. There are no traces of individual voices sticking out, unlike the Off-Broadway recording. Although the score calls for 16 voices, the chorus sounds more effective with a larger group, a necessity for transferring to the capacity of a Broadway theatre. I am personally biased toward the Original Off-Broadway cast, mostly for Soo’s dynamic chemistry with all the leads. However the original Broadway recording has few shortcomings, and I’m thrilled Broadway audiences now get to experience this innovative, cutting-edge work. If you haven’t heard of either of the cast albums for “The Great Comet of 1812,” study up a little bit and go buy them!Which is your favorite recording of “The Great Comet of 1812?” Let us know in the comments below...
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[post_title] => Quiz: Can We Guess What Green Room Personality You Are?
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[post_content] => It's no secret that this year has been a pretty great year for Ben Platt, and last night's Tony's were the cherry on top. While most people only previously recognized the 23-year-old from his performance as Benji in the "Pitch Perfect" series, his stunning performance in the new Tony Award-winning Broadway musical "Dear Evan Hansen" has proven his acting and singing ability and turned him into quite the household name. In fact, he just won a Tony Award for Best Lead Actor in a Musical!
1. Ben Platt and Uzo Aduba Sing ‘A Little Priest’ from ‘Sweeney Todd’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EJ7yUadOrU8 Okay, so maybe this wasn’t where your mind immediately went when you thought of Platt. But seeing him tackle the role of Mrs. Lovett alongside Uzo Aduba’s Sweeney Todd is one of those things you didn’t know you needed in your life until you had it.2. Ben Platt — ’Stay With Me’ (Broadway Loves Sam Smith)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gYE8L6X_-Ew That riff at the beginning? Sighhhhhh. Our love for Sam Smith is eternal, but for theatre nerds, there’s something just extra swoonworthy with Platt at the mic.‘3. Crazy Ever After’ Cover by Ben Platt, Henry Platt, Adam Yaron and Elizabeth Gaba
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NPQrJwYNrKg The harmonies in this song are such #goals and are too much fun to sing along with.4. Ben Platt and Laura Dreyfuss Perform ‘Only Us’ from ‘Dear Evan Hansen’ on TODAY
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-FgEKPxcXEU For all the people shipping Evan and Zoe, you get to watch their love song in all its close-up glory. That eye contact! THAT KISS!5. ‘Pitch Perfect:’ ‘I've Got The Magic In Me’ (Boys Final)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oSsQsFS8Us0 Here’s a little bit of a throwback for you to Platt’s “Pitch Perfect” days. Benji spent most of the movie waving through the window at the Treblemakers, who wouldn’t accept him into their a cappella group. This makes his big reveal all the more amazing once he finally gets his chance to shine!6. Ben Platt — ‘I Can't Stand Still’ (‘Footloose’)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YxVHGzTclxY Watch Platt shred this song to pieces while giving us a glimpse of some classic ‘80s dance moves.7. Ben Platt Covers "Make It Rain" by Ed Sheeran
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_ysTYQvgM_8 In this video, Platt sings along to an Ed Sheeran classic with Adam Yaron on guitar. Where does one have to go to stumble upon performances like this happening in nature? Asking for a friend.8. Ben Platt — ’Georgia On My Mind’ and Funny Story (Live) @ Le Poisson Rouge
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cnldIU_09yE “What does Anna Kendrick smell like?” “Intelligence.” Though this video is a bit on the longer side, treat yourself to some of Platt’s vocal chops and some hilarious behind-the-scenes stories about his life and performances.9. ‘Donald: The Musical’ (With Tim Minchin, Ben Platt and Abigail Spencer)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WZWNHCRCpNM A musical about Donald Trump, Sean Spicer, Kellyanne Conway and Steve Bannon combined with “Matilda” — sounds crazy, no? But somehow, it’s the best thing ever.10. Ben Platt and Henry Platt — ‘Make You Feel My Love’ (Bob Dylan)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KRVM8UJrhAo Platt takes the stage with his brother, Henry, in this incredible cover that truly shows off the power of musical genes.11. ‘Who Am I?’ — Ben Platt
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wtqaMqK9lfk Everyone has to start somewhere, right? Here, Platt performs as Jean Valjean in the Kidz Theater’s 2012 production of “Les Misérables.” His talent is awe-inspiring even in his late teens, but what’s great here is to see how much you can grow as a singer over time. Go Baby Platt!12. Breaking Down The Riffs With Natalie Weiss — Episode 30: Pitch Perfect
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jC9E6ZKRpXc&t=5s We love this one for the shower scene alone, but watching Platt riff his face off to Destiny’s Child’s “Bootylicious” alongside the amazingly talented Natalie Weiss will be the best 11 minutes and 28 seconds of your life.13. Dear Evan Hansen: ‘Waving Through a Window’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x_CNqKA2t9M Okay, yeah, so this one’s a given. Listen to it as many times as you want — it’s just that good.
What’s your favorite Ben Platt video? Let us know in the comments below...
[post_title] => 13 Videos To Watch If You're Obsessed With Ben Platt [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => 13-videos-watch-youre-obsessed-ben-platt [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2017-07-06 11:24:09 [post_modified_gmt] => 2017-07-06 15:24:09 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=8839 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 3 [filter] => raw ) [17] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 8745 [post_author] => 639 [post_date] => 2017-06-08 09:51:08 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-06-08 13:51:08 [post_content] => It’s not every day our favorite Broadway shows get made into films. These star-studded movies can either go very well (such as “Les Misérables” or “Hairspray”) or terribly wrong (did anyone see “Jersey Boys?”). What comes with these new adaptations are newer takes on some of our favorite shows, sometimes with new songs or new effects that couldn’t have been done onstage. If done correctly, like “Rent” or “Chicago,” these films can capture the musical just right and be around for us to watch for years to come.UPDATE: We've added new additions recently announced to this list
Here are 14 musicals that are currently in production and will eventually head to the big screen:
1. ‘In the Heights'
2. ‘Beautiful: The Carole King Musical’
This project is pretty new compared to the others, but it has been reported that this Tony Award-winning musical will be moving to the big screen. This musical, which first opened on Broadway in 2014, starred Jessie Mueller and won her her first Tony Award for her performance as Carole King.
Variety reports the film is currently set to be produced by Sony Pictures, with Tom Hanks already signed on as one of the producers. With classic songs that appeal to all ages, this biopic musical adaptation could really be a big hit.
Who do you think should play the iconic songwriter on the big screen?
3. ‘Cats’
This Andrew Lloyd Webber classic is currently in the works to come to the big screen. With a revival now on Broadway, there is still a lot of admiration for this show that many people love to hate.
According to Vanity Fair, Tom Hooper, director of the “Les Misérables” adaptation, is already signed on to direct this feline-filled film. And though not much else is known at this point, we can’t help but wonder how it will go.
It’s one thing for a film to try to stay true to the story of a musical, not let down during big ensemble numbers and deliver on casting, but this is “Cats.” Who is going to sign on to play Rum Tum Tugger or Grizabella? These days, we are fortunate enough to see big Broadway stars in TV musicals and big film adaptations, but something tells us names such as Darren Criss and Meryl Streep are not going to claw at the opportunity to be in this film.
Despite the skepticism facing this project, it shouldn't be counted out just yet. Webber’s other film adaptations were fairly good, and just think of the amazing effects this adaptation can bring to Mr. Mistoffelees’ tricks! Worst-case scenario, we can always revert back to the 1998 VHS version of the show.
4. ‘American Idiot’
This punk rock musical first graced the stage in 2010, reinventing Green Day’s 2004 concept album of the same name. The film is currently being produced by HBO and is set to be directed by Michael Mayer, the director of the Broadway musical.
As of right now, there is no set date or cast for this film, but Green Day frontman Billie Joe Armstrong is already set to reprise his role as St. Jimmy. When speaking to NME, he said, “I think it’s going to be a lot different from the musical. It’s kind of more surreal, but I think there’s going to be parts of it that might offend people — which is good. I think it’s a great time to offend people. I think there’s just going to be a lot of imagery that we couldn’t pull off in the musical in the stage version. You know, I don’t want to give away too much, but it will be shocking in a way which makes you think.”
5. ‘Little Shop of Horrors’
This classic musical about a plant that comes from outer space and eats people is in talks for a musical movie remake. Though this show has not been on Broadway in recent years, the success of its two-night concert at the New York City Center in 2015, led by Jake Gyllenhaal, proves this show still has a very strong fanbase.
Entertainment Weekly reports Greg Berlanti (“The Flash,” “Supergirl”) has signed on to direct the remake. With Matthew Robinson set to do the screenplay and Marc Platt Productions signed on to produce, this remake could come sooner than we think.
It seems like the only thing left to do is decide on the cast. Could you imagine Tituss Burgess as Audrey II, or Neil Patrick Harris as Seymour? Of course, this is extremely wishful thinking, but the real question is, can Steve Martin reprise his frightening “Dentist!” for the new film?
6. ‘Finding Neverland’
This is a weird one to get a musical film adaptation. Unlike the other musicals on this list, “Finding Neverland” was based on a film of the same name starring Johnny Depp that told the story of how J.M. Barrie brought Peter Pan to life.
Though snubbed at the Tony Awards in 2015, this Gary Barlow-scored musical has truly brought a new, magical dimension to an already great story. The show is currently on a national tour and has a pretty solid fanbase, but what would a film adaptation of a musical adaptation based on a film look like for this show?
No cast or director has been assigned to the project. Here’s hoping this magical musical actually sails to the big screen.
7. ‘Matilda’
This loud musical has been in talks to become a film for the past few years. “Matilda,” based on the Roald Dahl novel of the same name, closed on Broadway on Jan. 1, 2017. Though there were talks that the movie would potentially start filming in 2016, the production has yet to get underway.
To be fair, Tim Minchin has had his hands full lately. His new hit, “Groundhog Day” has been making waves on Broadway after transferring from London, where it took home the Olivier Award for Best New Musical. The hype is not dying down for this new musical anytime soon, as it was nominated for multiple Tony Awards this year.
However, there is still hope for the film adaptation of “Matilda.” With Matthew Warchus signed on as the director (“Matilda,” “Groundhog Day”), the film should be able to get underway soon. Minchin told The Stage, “We didn’t want to rush it, as we wanted it to be known as a theatre piece. We didn’t want people going to the theatre saying, ‘Oh, it’s the musical of that movie.’ You want people seeing the film, saying, ‘It’s the movie of that musical.’”
Minchin also said he hopes the film could wrap up by 2018. With a cast not yet announced, it’s hard to tell whether that will happen, but let’s hope production starts moving again soon. It would be a great way to see this naughty group of revolting children bring this great musical to life onscreen.
8. ‘Wicked’
After many years of rumors and speculation, this popular musical is coming to the big screen. This adaptation of Stephen Schwartz and Winnie Holzman’s musical is probably one of the most anticipated stage-to-film adaptations in production. With work already underway on the screenplay, Schwartz has given fans more to look forward to with this new movie.
When speaking to Playbill just a few weeks ago, he said we can expect at least two new songs in the adaptation. Schwartz was also very adamant that his adaptation will not be exact.
“There are things that work onstage but won’t work on film,” he said. “In order to do something that will work on its own merits, you have to do something different. The only concern is people who would be coming expecting to see a filmed version of the play. They’re not going to see that.”
However, fans already seem to have their dream casting for this particular adaptation. With ideas of Lea Michele as Elphaba, Aaron Tveit as Fiyero and Beth Behrs as Glinda, it’s hard not to get ahead of ourselves. But what this adaptation has that most do not is an official premiere date: Dec. 20, 2019.
9. 'Hair'
NBC recently announced it would stage the popular (and controversial) 1960s musical. “Hair” will join a string of live-action musicals put on by NBC, including “Jesus Christ Superstar,” which aired on the network on Easter this year. There have been no announcements on casting yet, but theatre lovers are already speculating.
Release Date: May 19, 2019
10. 'Aladdin'
With Guy Ritchie at the helm, Disney’s remake of the beloved animated classic will feature old favorites as well as new songs penned by the film’s original composer, Alan Menken, alongside Benj Pasek and Justin Paul, the team behind “Dear Evan Hansen.” This live-action adaptation features Hollywood heavy-hitter Will Smith as the Genie, Canadian actor Mena Massoud as Aladdin, and British actress Naomi Scott as Princess Jasmine.
Release Date: May 24, 2019
11. 'Lion King'
The stars came out for this one, including the one which eclipses them all: Queen Beyonce, who will voice Nala. Donald Glover will play opposite as Simba, and James Earl Jones will reprise his role as Mufasa. The remainder of the cast includes other Hollywood favorites such as Chiwetel Ejiofor, Seth Rogen, John Oliver, and Keegan-Michael Key, to name a few. The film’s director, Jon Favreau, directed Disney’s recent remake of “The Jungle Book,” which could be an indication of the style of the upcoming remake.
Release Date: July 19, 2019
12. ‘Tick, Tick…Boom!’
Miranda is a busy guy. With “In the Heights” already in the works, he announced his intention to direct an adaptation of Jonathan Larson’s musical “Tick, Tick…Boom!” with the script written by “Dear Evan Hansen” writer Steven Levenson. In the past, Miranda has praised Larson’s work as inspirational in his personal process, and additionally played the character of Jon in a revival of the show back in 2014.
Release Date: TBA
13. ‘West Side Story’
The rumors of this remake from Steven Spielberg and Tony Kushner became a reality earlier this year when a casting call went out for actors/singer/dancers for the leading roles of Tony, Maria, Anita, and Bernardo. No announcements have been made regarding actors chosen for the film or a release date, but the Spielberg/Kushner duo has audiences waiting with bated breath.
Release Date: TBA
14. 'Be More Chill'
Producers of this social media sensation recently announced plans for a film adaptation. This is somewhat surprising since the show has not even opened on Broadway yet. However, Joe Iconis's runaway hit has been getting Broadway-Hit like attention since its recent sold-out run Off-Broadway. Many are predicting this as next big winner on the great white way. Needless to say, the movie is still far from being here and no timetable has yet been given.
Release Date: TBA
Kate Johnston also contributed to this article
What musicals do you want to see head to the big screen? Which of these eight are you most excited to see? Let us know in the comments below...
[post_title] => 8 Musicals Heading To The Big Screen [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => 8-musicals-heading-big-screen [to_ping] => [pinged] => https://ew.com/article/2016/12/07/little-shop-horrors-greg-berlanti-remake-warner-bros/ https://theatrenerds.com/personal-defense-cats/ [post_modified] => 2019-08-31 13:41:16 [post_modified_gmt] => 2019-08-31 17:41:16 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=8745 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 64 [filter] => raw ) [18] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 8742 [post_author] => 11 [post_date] => 2017-06-07 09:31:58 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-06-07 13:31:58 [post_content] => With June 11 rapidly approaching, theatre nerds are getting ready to celebrate a sacred day in the performing arts world: the Tony Awards! As we prepare for the 71st iteration of this beautiful ceremony, it’s only fitting to look back on some of the event’s most magical moments.Here are five acceptance speeches that left a lasting mark on Tony history:
1. Idina Menzel, 2004
“I’m so proud to be in a musical that celebrates women!” Before her “Frozen” fame, Idina Menzel made a name for herself defying gravity on the Broadway stage. Not only has “Wicked” become one of the most iconic musicals to date, but it shares the story of two strong and empowering leading ladies. Menzel’s acceptance speech at the 2004 Tony Awards is not only joy-filled and emotional, but it commemorates a performance that will definitely remain iconic in theatre history. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LlOcEcaxtfg2. Lin-Manuel Miranda, 2008
“Hamilton” was but a glimmer in Lin-Manuel Miranda’s eye when he snagged a Tony Award for “In the Heights.” Still, his musical genius was apparent back in 2008 when he decided to rap his acceptance speech (we’d expect nothing less). Not many people could pull off this unique endeavor, and it’s clear “In the Heights” was just the beginning of Miranda’s musical revolution. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PYeMCgPT5HQ3. Billy Porter, 2013
“Kinky Boots” star Billy Porter gave a memorable speech when he took the stage at the 2013 Tony Awards. Not only did he begin with a Shakespeare quote (always a good decision), but he tells the story of discovering the Tony Awards while “washing dishes in the kitchen” to a “Dreamgirls” performance. Porter’s powerful speech reminds us of every actor’s humble beginnings and the magic of musical theatre. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=axvdCiBTioc4. Kelli O’Hara, 2015
After six nominations, this Broadway star finally took home a Tony in 2015 for the role of Anna in the revival of “The King and I.” Not only do we love the sincere surprise and happiness O’Hara displays during her win, but not many other acceptance speeches include “shuffling off to Buffalo” during their exit. Well done, Kelli. Well done. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MneMh2c-y0M5. Renée Elise Goldsberry, 2016
WORK! This Schuyler Sister made a powerful statement during her Hamil-WIN last year: “If you know anything about me, I’ve spent the last 10 years of my life — what some would consider the lifeblood of a woman’s career — just trying to have children, and I can testify in front of all of you that the Lord gave me Benjamin and Brielle and then he still gave me this! Thank you!” This rockstar working-momma is truly an inspiration! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IYF4IY7JMp4What is your favorite Tony Awards acceptance speech? Let us know in the comments below...
[post_title] => 5 Tony Award Acceptance Speeches That Rocked Our World [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => 5-tony-award-acceptance-speeches-rocked-world [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2017-07-06 11:25:58 [post_modified_gmt] => 2017-07-06 15:25:58 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=8742 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 4 [filter] => raw ) [19] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 8737 [post_author] => 766 [post_date] => 2017-06-06 10:10:38 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-06-06 14:10:38 [post_content] => So, you’ve just been through a breakup, and you’re dealing with a lot of emotions. Letting go can be tough, but sometimes you just have to sing it out. Just like anything goes when it comes to musicals, this also applies to relationships. Luckily for Broadway fans, you can crank up the showtunes as a way to express your feelings and let it all out.So, pull out your headphones and cry your way through these 13 songs:
P.S. Check out the entire playlist at the end of this post1. ‘There’s a Fine, Fine Line’ — ‘Avenue Q’
“Avenue Q” has a great collection of songs that usually make you cry with laughter, but this piece is sure to make you cry your biggest, saddest tears. Everyone has experienced the fine, fine line between a relationship and friendship and the yearning you feel to be more than just a friend. For those who need to put it into words, this is a great song to let you express what the fine line is all about.
2. ‘Still Hurting’ — ‘The Last Five Years’
One of the most heartbreaking musicals of our time, “The Last Five Years” really pulls on the heartstrings with this opening ballad. When you’re going through a breakup, it’s pretty easy to pretend you are OK and go on with your life. It’s even harder to recognize you need time to hurt and heal. If you aren’t crying out all of your feelings by the end of this one, you’re doing it wrong.
3. ‘On My Own’ — ’Les Misérables’
Ever experienced unrequited love? Eponine can teach you a thing or two about that feeling. This song is perfect for the breakup that totally ruins you and leaves you thinking you are on your own. It helps you recognize those emotions are real and it’s totally OK.
4. ‘Maybe This Time’ — ‘Cabaret’
You have a lot of regrets and things that went wrong with your past relationship, but hey, maybe next time, things will be better. Liza Minnelli couldn’t put it any better in this classic “Cabaret” song. Keep your chin up — maybe things will look up!
5. ‘The Long Grift’ — ‘Hedwig and the Angry Inch’
There’s nothing like singing your sorrows away while wailing on a little guitar. This song will have you feeling the rock power you need to get over that terrible gigolo, anyway. Embrace your inner rocker (high boots and sparkly eyeshadow included) and sing your feelings all out.
6. ‘I’m Gonna Wash That Man Right Outa My Hair’ — ‘South Pacific’
So, maybe you are done with the crying stage and are so ready to move on. This song is sure to help you move past the relationship BS and start fresh. Just like washing your hair, you can rinse all those feelings away and have a clean outlook.
7. ‘So Much Better’ — ‘Legally Blonde’
No one wants to be that person that mopes around after a relationship, just like no one wants to break up with their long-term partner after a romantic night when they think they’re getting proposed to! Don’t worry about moping around, and be better than they ever thought you could be. Elle knows best — you are so much better than that!
8. ‘Take Me or Leave Me’ — ‘Rent’
We all have our quirks. Sometimes even your partner can’t handle who you really are or even accept it. Post-breakup you may realize they maybe just couldn’t handle all of you, and that’s fine. “Take Me or Leave Me” is the song that helps you embrace who you are and learn to walk away when it’s not the right fit.
9. ‘We Do Not Belong Together’ — ‘Sunday in the Park with George’
We all reach a point where we know things aren’t meant to be and that’s just the way it is. This song from a classic Sondheim musical help you realize the imperfections and get over things.
10. ‘Burn’ — ‘Hamilton’
Getting cheated on by a partner is tragic. Fortunately, you have tragic “Hamilton” songs to help you deal with the cheater in your life. It’s time to sing along and burn those love letters (or delete those texts) that remind you of your ex.
11. ‘I Don’t Care Much’ — ‘Cabaret’
Alan Cumming couldn’t have sung it better. Stay or go, you are going to be just fine without that person in your life. You could care less, go or stay!
12. ‘I’m Not That Girl’ — ‘Wicked’
Perhaps you are at the point of the breakup where reality has set in. You aren’t the type to usually get caught in romantic whims, so you need a little reminder that you are strong. You aren’t going to lose sight of yourself in the relationship, and Idina can help you sing your way back into confidence again.
13. ‘The Sadder-But-Wiser Girl’ — ‘The Music Man’
Yeah, you can admit it — breakups suck, and you are allowed to be sad. But ultimately, you learn a lot from a failed relationship. You learn about yourself and what you’re looking for in a partner. Though you may be a bit sad, you are that much stronger for it!
Let us know your favorite Broadway breakup songs in the comments below...
Besides being chock-full of animated audiences and sparkling performances, Broadway theatres are infested with ghoulish histories. Each night, after the curtain falls and everyone goes home, the Broadway spirits come out to play, illuminated by their respective theatre’s ghostlight. However, some phantoms also strut their stuff during the lively hours, playing tricks on current Broadway stars and theatre employees. From vaudeville acrobats flying across the house to former theatre owners dropping by to check up on things, we’d like to introduce you to some of Broadway’s most famous ghosts.
So, light up the fireplace and snuggle up if you dare, because it’s time for some ghost stories:
David Belasco: The Belasco Theatre
As the current house manager of the Belasco tirelessly works in her office, she’ll occasionally hear the man above stirring in his own wood-paneled space. The company comforts her on late nights, but it probably shouldn’t — especially considering that the office above is kept under tight lock and key, motion detectors and all, and has been empty for decades.
Legendary theatre owner David Belasco built the theatre that still stands in his name on West 44th Street. He spent his life there, writing, directing and managing all sorts of plays. In fact, he spent so much of his time there that he dwelled in an apartment above. So, it comes as no shock that Belasco remains in the space even after passing on in 1931.
Dubbed by Playbill as “one of the most solid theatre ghosts,” Belasco began to appear almost immediately after his death. Actors began to notice a lone, dark shadow watching their performances from the balcony. He wasn’t shy, either, going right up to the performers and shaking their hands afterward and saying they had done a fabulous job. Many actresses reportedly complained about an older man in a priest ensemble pinching their bottoms. Considering Belasco was known in his day as a flirt and “The Bishop of Broadway,” this makes sense.
In death, Belasco remains a flirt, holding a relationship with a ghost known as “The Blue Lady.” An anonymous celebrity who appeared in a show at the Belasco recently reported hearing the locked door of her dressing room open while she was taking a shower. She frantically ran out, only to find the door still securely shut. But when she went back to the bathroom, it was bathed with a strange blue glow.
Like his lover, the former theatre owner is not against manifesting himself in stereotypical ghost forms, either. He swings closed doors open, raises the curtain magically and sends out puffs of cigar smoke into the atmosphere when no one alive is smoking. He has also been known to throw wild parties with other spirits, with late-night workers hearing the noise. Despite being sealed up and shut down for years, Belasco’s private elevator has also been heard puttering up to his private office.
Playbill reported that an usher was closing up the lobby one night at the Belasco and playfully called out, “Goodnight, Mr. Belasco.” And, even though the exterior doors were pulled shut and there was no wind, all the lobby doors swung open in unison. Needless to say, the usher transferred to another theatre. It looks like Belasco doesn’t ever want the theatre to close.
Olive Thomas: The New Amsterdam Theatre
Aladdin’s Genie isn’t the only mystical creature soaring through Disney’s 42nd Street house. The New Amsterdam Theatre is home to one of Broadway’s most active ghosts: Olive Thomas.
This former Ziegfeld Follies girl has been haunting the theatre since she died of accidental poisoning in 1920. Known by her signature outfit (a green-beaded Follies dress, beaded headpiece and a sash), Thomas has been seen wandering with a big blue pill bottle. This is said to be the container that carries the mercury pills she used to poison herself.
Thomas reportedly manifests so frequently that photographs of her have been placed at every entrance of the New Amsterdam so staff can say hello and goodbye to her each day. They believe doing so has kept her mischief at bay, but that doesn’t mean she isn’t still around. In fact, every time there is a malfunction during a performance of the highly technical “Aladdin,” her name immediately comes to mind.
Shortly after the opening of “Aladdin” in 2014, Thomas made an appearance. An audience member in the orchestra asked one of the ushers for a booster seat for her child.
“We don’t like to interrupt a show,” Dana Amendola, vice president of operations at Disney Theatrical Group, told Playbill, “so we waited until the intermission and came to her with a booster. But we found she already had one. When we asked her where she had gotten it, she said a ‘lady at the back of the theatre’ had gestured to where they were. Now, we don’t have a woman at the back of the house who does that in the middle of a show. We checked, and none of the staff had done it. So you can take that how you like, but it was kind of freaky.”
The occurrence seems rare, as Thomas mainly reveals herself to men and acts flirtatious toward them.
Her spirit also recently appeared when Disney employees were talking about the movie “The Artist,” which is set in the era of silent films. After someone mentioned Thomas became a silent film star, someone made the mistake of saying the real silent-era star was actually Mary Pickford (Thomas’ sister-in-law). At that moment, a tall stack of DVDs on a nearby table flew across the room, crashing onto the floor. The group was stunned.
“They didn’t fall straight down as CDs would have done,” Amendola said. “They went flying about three feet across the room and hit a wall. This was witnessed by several people.”
Amendola went on to say ushers and overnight security have felt a presence sneak up on them and touch their back, only to find no one there. Apparently crazed fans hope for that same feeling, some trying to hide in the New Amsterdam overnight with the intention of spotting Thomas. According to Amendola, security does a special sweep each night to catch them.
Louis Borsalino, Judy Garland and Friends: The Palace Theatre
Now here is a ghost you don’t want to see. The Palace Theatre staff will warn you of the tale of Louis Borsalino. In the days of vaudeville, Borsalino had a tightrope-walking act at the Palace. Unfortunately, the acrobat fell to his death during one performance. As years passed, actors saw his ghost walking a tightrope from the house-left box up to the mezzanine. However, these stories can’t be verified. Legend has it that anyone who sees this particular ghost dies within a year.
However, don’t be alarmed if you just happened to see a ghost at the Palace. There are many other spirits in residency, including a cellist dressed all in white who was last seen during the run of “Beauty and the Beast,” a man in a brown suit who is known for haunting the offices at the theatre nightly, a young boy who will play with his toy trucks in the mezzanine and even Judy Garland. That’s right, the presence of the legend herself is palpable near a door that the theatre had constructed especially for her at the back of the house.
Of course, there are a multitude of other ghosts on Broadway. So, the next time you go to the theatre, pay attention — because the stars aren’t just on the stage and they’re dying to be in the spotlight again (*insert maniacal laughter here*).
We couldn’t pack all of the ghosts into one article so let’s talk about some others in the comments below. Any ghost stories of your own?
[post_title] => Meet Broadway’s Resident Ghosts [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => broadways-resident-ghosts [to_ping] => [pinged] => https://theatrenerds.com/theater-ghosts-4-spooky-stories-of-the-stage/ [post_modified] => 2017-10-29 10:10:28 [post_modified_gmt] => 2017-10-29 14:10:28 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=8732 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [21] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 8723 [post_author] => 440 [post_date] => 2017-06-04 08:52:14 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-06-04 12:52:14 [post_content] => Once a year, Broadway comes to television to award the year’s best while simultaneously delighting and disappointing theatre lovers around the world. This year's show, hosted by master of the stage and screen Kevin Spacey, is set to be a big one, with eagerly anticipated performances and some surprise nominations. Each nominee comes with a story and experience, providing learning material for those looking to break into the theatre industry.Here are five nuggets of wisdom garnered from this year’s Tony nominees:
1. It’s Never Too Late
At 71, Bette Midler proved there is no age limit on dreams and achievements after being nominated for her first Tony Award for her role in “Hello, Dolly!”
“I’m actually thrilled,” Midler told CBS News. “And I think the crowd is thrilled, too. Because a lot of people my age are coming. And they see me skipping, and they flip out. I skip — a step that they haven’t done since they were seven. And they feel like, ‘Wow. If she’s doing it, maybe I can do it, too.’ And I love that.”
While the Tony’s recognized her with a special award in 1974 for “Adding lustre to the Broadway season,” this is her first nomination for a performance. Winning would be a real full-circle moment for Midler, who began her career in theatre about 50 years ago.
2. Sometimes, You Have to Make Your Own Opportunities
Nominated for Best Original Score for their work on Broadway smash “Dear Evan Hansen,” Benj Pasek and Justin Paul scored their Oscar-winning “La La Land” gig by being persistent. Even after a phone interview, director Damien Chazelle and composer Justin Hurwitz still weren’t sold on the duo. Pasek and Paul were prepared to wait, but their management had other ideas and suggested an arranged spontaneous meeting in Los Angeles.
Pasek told Deadline their management suggested dropping the pair a line with, “‘We just happen to be here, do you guys happen to be free for dinner?’ We were like, ‘This is crazy. This is insane, and we like, are really poor and we don’t have money for flights.’ He’s like, ‘You have enough money to fly yourselves economy across the country to be there on Monday to ask them to go to dinner with you.’”
Crazy as it sounded, the idea worked, and the rest is Oscar history. The moral of the story is there is no formula for success, and you can’t always wait for opportunities to fall into your lap.
3. When One Door Closes, Another Door Opens
“Falsettos” actor and Tony nominee Andrew Rannells went to one of his first auditions in New York for “Rent,” but he didn’t get cast. However, he did meet Bernard Telsey, a casting director who later cast him in his first Broadway role in “Hairspray.” This set him on a path toward his major Broadway break, “The Book of Mormon,” which saw his first Tony nomination.
Rannells told the Hollywood Reporter that his work on that show opened the door to another opportunity when “Lena [Dunham] and Jenni Konner came to opening night of ‘The Book of Mormon.’ They had shot the pilot of ‘Girls,’ they got their pickup and they were just about to start filming the first season. And a couple of weeks later, I got a phone call about coming in and reading for this new TV show.”
He won the part of Elijah, who became a series regular in the second season and remained on the show for all seven seasons. You never know which connections will lead you to success.
4. Nothing Is Wasted
Surprisingly, Linda Cho, who was nominated for a Tony for Costume Design, studied psychology in college, not art or design. While some would say it’s unrelated to her current field and therefore a waste now, Cho would disagree.
She told Mochi Magazine, “You’re working with temperamental, artistic people, whether they’re directors or designers or people in the shops, so you have to think about how to best deal with them in different situations.” Cho also uses her background knowledge when designing for each character by delving into their minds in each scene.
Like Cho, treat your background and experience as an asset instead of a mistake.
5. Art Can Change the World
Stage and screen actor Corey Hawkins, nominated for his role in the play “Six Degrees of Separation” always goes back to what he learned at Juilliard about the duty of the artist to society.
Hawkins told NPR, “It wasn’t about the sort of fame and the legendary alumni, which can be a little intimidating, but it became about the work and what we’re trying to say with our art.”
Watching his mother, a police officer, serve the community showed Hawkins he could use his gifts as an artist and make a difference. His nominated role is no exception, shining a light on the current racial issues, especially those involving the criminal justice system.
These are just five of the incredible nominees up for recognition at the June 11 awards ceremony. It’s a night when youth everywhere will watch with excitement and dream of the day they will be onstage, blubbering their way through an emotional acceptance speech before a band plays them off. Take heart; your day will come.
Which of this year’s nominees inspires you? Let us know in the comments below...
[post_title] => 5 Life Lessons From This Year’s Tony Nominees [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => 5-life-lessons-years-tony-nominees [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2017-06-04 08:52:14 [post_modified_gmt] => 2017-06-04 12:52:14 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=8723 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 1 [filter] => raw ) [22] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 8617 [post_author] => 391 [post_date] => 2017-06-01 09:07:12 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-06-01 13:07:12 [post_content] => Musical theatre is loaded with iconic bass/baritone roles, such as Curley, Captain von Trapp, Javert and Billy Flynn. While charm and comedic timing are heavy components of several characters, vulnerability and heartbreak are inevitable, too. To highlight the more melancholy side of the characters, here are 15 tearjerking songs for bass-baritones to consider:1. ‘I’ll Cover You (Reprise)’ from ‘Rent’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pBSDjhK_YGU In one of the musical’s most powerful scenes, Angel’s lover, Collins, is the last to eulogize her at her funeral. Range: F#2–G#4.2. ‘This Nearly Was Mine’ from ‘South Pacific’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N9cCP0iwtCc In this second-act ballad, Emile regretfully wonders about his could-have-been future with Nellie. Range: B2–D4.3. ‘Sorry-Grateful’ from ‘Company’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=COxzO9iihvY Harry and the other married men onstage explain that marriage changes both everything and nothing about a person. Range: B2–E4.4. ‘I Won’t Send Roses’ from ‘Mack and Mabel’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8K3IMdruOt0 In this underrated Jerry Herman musical, Mabel is developing feelings for Mack, but Mack has no time for a relationship. Range: G2–D4.5. ‘Lost in the Darkness’ from ‘Jekyll and Hyde’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b1HwpyQPE14 In the musical’s opening solo, Henry Jekyll sings to his comatose father in an asylum. Range: G#2–E4.6. ‘Drink With Me’ from ‘Les Misérables’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E-HLc4Bkn2Q At the barricade, Grantaire and the students fear being forgotten after death. Range: D3–Eb4.7. ‘If I Can’t Love Her’ from ‘Beauty and the Beast’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GMXR_4_gX84 In the musical’s Act I finale, the Beast realizes Belle is his last chance of finding love and becoming human. Range: B2–F4.8. ‘The Longer I Live’ from ‘Dracula’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_gbtvqVVB-4 Count Dracula contemplates his eternal life and comes to terms with loving Mina. Range: G#2–F#4.9. ‘Lesson #8’ from ‘Sunday in the Park with George’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=feQN0QH3fxM While reading a book from his grandmother, George reflects on the striking and morose similarities between him and his great-grandfather. Range: G#3–F4.10. ‘I Don’t Remember You’ from ‘The Happy Time’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bj3qpBUePLs In this lesser-known Kander and Ebb musical, photographer Jacques is having issues committing to his former lover, Laurie. Range: Ab2–Eb4.11. ‘It’s Hard to Speak My Heart’ from ‘Parade’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jS2Qu2bFpOA In this pivotal scene from Jason Robert Brown’s musical, Leo attempts to humanize himself for the jury. Range: B2–E4.12. ‘What Would I Do?’ from ‘Falsettos’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VSKwY-4BE0Q Marvin and Whizzer share one final moment together before Whizzer dies. Range: A2–F#4.13. ‘With So Little to Be Sure Of’ from ‘Anyone Can Whistle’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pe3vldX7iJc In this early Sondheim musical, Hapgood reflects on his brief relationship with Fay before they part. Range: B2–E4.14. ‘Ghost of a Chance’ from ‘Drift’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nK4Q2BR_BEg This number comes from “Drift,” a concept album-turned-musical about the stages of divorce and child custody. Range: D3–E4.15. ‘If She Were Coming Home’ from ‘Next Thing You Know’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eI-76JTXBXE In this Salzman and Cunningham musical, Luke gives up on his attempts to mature his behavior for Waverly. Range: B2–A4 (falsetto).Think of a song that we left off? Let us know in the comments below...
[post_title] => 15 Heartbreaking Songs For Bass/Baritones [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => 15-heartbreaking-songs-for-bass-baritones [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2017-06-01 09:07:12 [post_modified_gmt] => 2017-06-01 13:07:12 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=8617 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 9 [filter] => raw ) [23] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 8618 [post_author] => 736 [post_date] => 2017-05-31 08:45:40 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-05-31 12:45:40 [post_content] => Eeeeekkk! You have a costume emergency right in the middle of the show. Here is a list of some handy items you should have on hand backstage so you can solve your problem in the nick of time:1. Lint Roller
Lint rollers keep the costumes clean of any dust, dander, feathers, glitter and/or anything else that may collect both onstage and offstage.
2. Safety Pins
These are the answer to most costume emergencies, since you can use them to hold almost anything together. Keep a full box on hand.
3. Scissors
These are needed for immediate repairs involving most of the items on this list. You can even use them if a zipper gets stuck or you can’t untie a shoelace. Use the scissor to cut the zipper open or the laces off so you can get the actor out of the piece of costume that is causing the issue. This may sound extreme, but it this happens in the middle of a quick change, it may be the only way to remedy the issue. Don’t worry — the costume shop can fix all cut things once the show is over so they’re as as good as new for the next performance.
4. Seam Ripper
You can use this handy tool to gently rip open stitches or a hem on any garment. Keep this on hand when scissors will do too much damage.
5. Needle and Thread
This is a must-have no matter what! Use these to sew up rips, tears, holes or any other clothing pieces that need some TLC.
6. Baby Wipes
These handy wipes aren’t just for babies. Use them to take the stains out of the costumes. Keep a little jug or box on hand, and when you see a stain, grab one and scrub gently.
7. Duct Tape
Duct tape is probably one of the greatest inventions ever made. Keep a roll on hand, especially some that has a bit of a smaller width. This way, if a hem falls out and you don’t have time to repair it, you can quickly duct tape it from the inside to get through the scene or show and then fix it when it’s over.
8. Closures/Fasteners
Extra buttons, snaps and hooks are good to have on hand in a tin or storage container to replace any that break during a show. Having them at the ready sure beats having to find them in the costume shop when you’re in a pinch during a performance.
9. Vodka
Yes, vodka, the alcoholic beverage, except you won’t drink it. Instead, place in a spray bottle and use to spray any stinky costumes. It fights bacteria, keeps odors away and is way gentler on clothes and the environment than ready-made clothes refresher sprays. No one wants to be close to a cast member who smells, so keep this trick in mind to help keep odors away.
10. Static Guard
This invention works great on those hot and humid days when static cling is running amok backstage. Spray on clothing that might need it to prevent your dancers’ flowy costumes from clinging to them and others during the big dance number.
11. Hairspray
Not only does it help to keep hair in place, but it can also help you solve a stocking run. Spray a little on the run, and you’re good to go. It’s also another way to stop static cling. Just be sure to spray on legs/tights and not on the garment itself, as it can stain. This little trick prevents skirts and pants from clinging to your legs.
12. Nail Polish
Similar to hairspray, nail polish can solve runs in stockings or garments with a netting texture. Just paint some on, and all will be remedied. Of course, make sure to use clear polish. In addition, you can paint clear polish on any costume jewelry (especially fake gold and silver) to give them a nice shine and keep it from turning an awful tarnished color after coming in contact with skin.
13. Extra Tights/Stockings
Have some extra on hand in case a performer gets a run or hole and needs a quick replacement. You certainly don’t want to have to go digging in the costume shop when you need an emergency pair.
14. Shoelaces
Shoelaces break, so be prepared and have extra pairs on hand in case you need them. In an emergency, they can also be used to replace similar closures for other garments, such as corset ties, and to replace belts in a pinch.
15. Band-Aids
It’s a good idea for both your actors and dressers to have these on hand. If someone cuts themselves, you can prevent him or her from bleeding all over the costume.
16. Top Stick
This is another amazing invention that is basically scotch tape but much stickier and sticky on both sides. Usually, it’s used to apply fake facial hair, but with costumes, it can be used to keep them in place by adhering parts of the costumes to the actors’ skin. If you have ever wondered how movie stars keep their gowns in place when there is nothing to hold them up in the appropriate places, this is it.
17. Shoe Horn
For anyone who has tight-fitting shoes, have a shoe horn on hand to help them slip them on and off. This is especially helpful during a quick change when you have to change the performer’s shoes.
What do you keep in your emergency dresser kit for emergencies? Let us know in the comments below...
[post_title] => 17 Backstage Items For Every Costume Emergency [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => 17-backstage-items-for-every-costume-emergency [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2017-05-31 16:32:47 [post_modified_gmt] => 2017-05-31 20:32:47 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=8618 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [24] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 8647 [post_author] => 717 [post_date] => 2017-05-30 08:00:36 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-05-30 12:00:36 [post_content] => The world has changed drastically over the past few decades thanks to the internet, and the theatre world is no exception. With so many websites, blogs, Facebook groups, etc., it can be hard to know which ones to save and visit frequently. While there are hundreds of worthy and wonderful sites for theatre lovers, here are 21 essential websites to bookmark, in no particular order:1. Playbill.com
A great site to visit for breaking theatre news and show information, Playbill is a trusted source of news for the theatre community. My motto has always been, “If it’s not on Playbill, it’s not real.” And besides the latest news from the Rialto, Playbill.com is a great place to find information on current or future shows. Also, sign up for a Playbill Club membership to access discount codes to Broadway and Off-Broadway shows, as well as hotels and attractions in New York City.
2. IBDB.com
An absolutely essential site for theatre lovers, the Internet Broadway Database (IBDB) has listings for every Broadway show that ever happened. Want to know who was in the original production of “Porgy and Bess” in 1935 or who replaced Patti Lupone in “Evita?” IBDB.com is the place to find out.
3. Lortel.org
Lortel.org is the homepage for the Lucille Lortel Foundation. Besides offering excellent information on the foundation’s work and lots of history of the Lucille Lortel Theatre, one of Off-Broadway’s best theatres, Lortel.org contains the Internet Off-Broadway Database (IOBDB).
4. Show-Score.com
A great new website, Show-Score is kind of like Yelp, but for theatre. Browse all the shows to see how actual theatre-going people feel about the shows playing in New York and beyond. And, the benefits of membership are incredible and totally free. Members can rate any show they see, and once you rate enough, you earn different badges to show others just how influential you are. Members also frequently get offered free tickets to shows and events, as well as discounted tickets to Broadway shows and events where you can not only see great theatre, but also meet fellow enthusiasts and make lasting friendships.
5. Broadway.org
Broadway.org is the main website of The Broadway League, which is the national trade association for the Broadway industry. It’s basically a big group of all the theatre owners and such from all across the country. It’s a great source of information on Broadway and touring shows as well as events such as Kids Night on Broadway.
6. PlaybillVault.com
Similar to the IBDB, the Playbill Vault gives show information for almost every Broadway show ever. The biggest advantage of the Playbill Vault is unsurprisingly the playbills! You can search full playbills for shows going back to the 1920s.
7. TDF.org
The website of the Theatre Development Fund, a nonprofit dedicated to making theatre affordable for all, TDF is the awesome organization behind the famous TKTS booths located in NYC that offer day-of, half-priced tickets to Broadway and Off-Broadway shows. In addition, if eligible, you can join and receive access to heavily discounted tickets to shows in advance. Other resources you can find on the website include the TDF Costume Collection and real-time updates on what can be expected to be at TKTS booths.
8. Broadway.com
A hugely popular website for theatre fans, Broadway.com is a great place for news and features on all the currently running Broadway fare. Top features include video series “Side By Side by Susan Blackwell,” “Broadway Ink,” featuring the amazing artwork of Justin “Squigs” Robertson and the Broadway.com Audience Choice Awards.
9. BroadwayWorld.com
Another amazing source of Broadway breaking news, BroadwayWorld.com is great not only for NYC news and features, but for all cities across the country. Some of the amazing features are “Chewing the Scenery with Randy Rainbow,” “Backstage with Richard Ridge,” exclusive early access to some of the best theatre podcast episodes and the infamous BroadwayWorld message boards. Side note, it’s also the only theatre website with an Apple TV app.
10. TritonGallery.com
Triton Gallery is the only art gallery in the world devoted solely to Broadway posters, known as window cards. While it has all the latest posters from current hits, it also has hundreds of window cards from seasons past. You can also get high-quality reproductions of classic hits, such as the original “Oklahoma!” or “My Fair Lady” posters, and some of the biggest flops, such as the musical version of “Breakfast at Tiffany’s.” It also sells signed posters, frames and even three-sheets (giant-sized posters like the ones in Shubert Alley). It’s a great site to go shopping or just spend hours browsing!
11. YouTube.com
OK, so this isn't technically a theatre-specific site, but who among us hasn’t fallen into a blissful Broadway-themed video hole of Tony Awards clips or Broadway commercials from the 1980s? YouTube is a treasure trove of videos from Broadway’s past and present. Here, we’ll get you started on another one:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o98FxOza6-s
12. TalkinBroadway.com
Talkin’ Broadway is a site with many different facets. Probably best known as the home of the “All That Chat” message boards, Talkin’ Broadway also features a weekly roundup of all the soon-to-be-released CDs, books and DVDs, and a Shoppin’ Broadway board where users post tickets, memorabilia and other theatre-related things for sale.
13. DidHeLikeIt.com
A website with a great and surprisingly novel idea, Did He Like It curates all the different major reviews for Broadway and Off-Broadway shows and answers the question, “Did he (or she) like it?”
14. MasterworksBroadway.com
Masterworks Broadway is one of the biggest makers of cast recordings in the world, and its website is a great place to shop for more than 100 different original cast recordings and solo artists. However, it’s so much more than that. The website features tons of amazing photos from Broadway’s past, videos of exclusive interviews with the likes of Stephen Sondheim, Hal Prince and Angela Lansbury and a weekly column by one of the best musical theatre historians out there, Peter Filichia.
15. AbeBooks.com
Theatre books are the best, right? But they can be difficult to find, especially older ones. AbeBooks is an amazing website for cheap, hard-to-find books, with tons of theatre books to explore. There’s no better way to spend time than starting to build a theatre library of your own!
16. SpotlightOnBroadway.com
Another great site powered by The Broadway League, Spotlight On Broadway focuses not on shows, but the Broadway theatres. Get the history on all 40 of the Broadway theatres with awesome videos, interviews and photos.
*With the opening (or reopening, rather) of the Hudson Theatre, currently home to the revival of “Sunday in the Park With George,” there are now 41 Broadway theatres. Here’s hoping they’ll update the site in the future to include the beautiful Hudson.
17. BroadwayGreen.com
BroadwayGreen.com is the homepage for the Broadway Green Alliance (BGA), an amazing resource for how the Broadway community and all theatre communities around the country can help protect the planet and go green. It’s full of great information such as how to recycle costumes and props, what to do with old batteries and computers and other ways to lessen your carbon footprint in the theatre. College students can also sign up to become their college’s green captain to help revitalize their school’s green efforts with the full support of the alliance.
18. BlueGobo/Ovrtur.com
BlueGobo.com is a YouTube-like site dedicated solely to theatre. Ovrtur is an online catalogue with thousands of listings for theatre productions from Broadway, London and beyond. Recently, they combined forces to become a theatre super-site!
19. BwayZone.com
Between Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and all the other social media sites, it can be difficult to keep track of just the theatre-related posts. Enter Bway Zone! Powered by the Broadway League, Bway Zone brings all the social media sites together and shows you all the theatre posts in real-time.
20. ThespianSwag.com
Whether your a Broadway fan or a theatre kid (adults welcome too) looking to get your swag on, this is the place for you. ThespianSwag.com is ran by the same wonderful (biased) folks here at TheatreNerds.com. This is your one-stop shop for theatre themed merchandise including: clothing, tote bags, jewelry, mugs, & more.
21. TheatreNerds.com
Okay, we might be a bit biased (again), but TheatreNerds.com is one of the best sites out there for, well, theatre nerds! Besides inspiring (and often hilarious) memes featured on the site and on the TheatreNerds Facebook page and an incredible Swag Shop, a new article every day makes it an essential website to visit daily. And, there are big things coming, too, such as an audition song database, a musical web series, a theatre history of the day column and so much more. Stick with us, fellow theatre nerds — we’ve got you covered.
What are your favorite theatre websites? Think we missed any major ones in this list? Let us know in the comments below...
[post_title] => 21 Websites All Theatre Nerds Should Have Bookmarked [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => 21-websites-theatre-nerds-should-have-bookmarked [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2017-05-30 21:24:43 [post_modified_gmt] => 2017-05-31 01:24:43 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=8647 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [25] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 8558 [post_author] => 11 [post_date] => 2017-05-27 08:41:03 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-05-27 12:41:03 [post_content] => [viralQuiz id=45] [post_title] => Quiz: Which 'RENT' Character Are You? [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => which-rent-character-are-you [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2017-05-27 08:56:08 [post_modified_gmt] => 2017-05-27 12:56:08 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=8558 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 2 [filter] => raw ) [26] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 8667 [post_author] => 395 [post_date] => 2017-05-26 10:09:38 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-05-26 14:09:38 [post_content] => “Anastasia: The New Broadway Musical” has become an overnight hit on Broadway, a fact that likely surprises absolutely no one who grew up humming “Journey to the Past” and dreaming of being together in Paris. This 1997 film is the latest movie to get the musical treatment, and it does not disappoint. Whether it’s the adorable and talented Christy Altomare (Anastasia), charming Derek Klena (Dimitri) or the always-astonishing Ramin Karimloo (Gleb), this cast has been featured in a slew of videos lately that have made fans craving more.Here’s our roundup of 12 incredible performances and interviews that may just hold the key to your heart:
1. Christy Altomare Sings ‘Once Upon a December’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VFgbzxJgLl4 It’s always fascinating to see different takes on our favorite songs, and it’s so clear that Altomare has fully committed herself to the role of Anastasia as she yearns for her lost family and life.2. ‘Anastasia’ Star Christy Altomare Performs 'Journey to the Past'
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n4htofsf_Bo Watch as Altomare totally nails the musical’s most iconic “I want” song — and feel free to sing along!3. Christy Altomare and Derek Klena — ‘At The Beginning’ (The Broadway Princess Party)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0Y86buJDVbk Cartoon Dmitri may have been every six-year-old’s dream man, but real-life Klena certainly fits the bill and lives up to expectations in this swoon-worthy rendition of “At the Beginning” at 54 Below with Altomare.4. Watch Christy Altomare, Ramin Karimloo and More Perform New Music From ‘Anastasia’ on Broadway
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2NrxV3w6AdA In this video, the cast of “Anastasia” performs "In My Dreams," “My Petersburg," "Still" and "We'll Go From There.” This is the first look we’ve gotten at Karimloo as Gleb, and he’s just as awesome as we could have expected from this former Phantom.5. Anastasia First Look — Derek Klena
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oXT8NXvlQxI Here’s the full-length clip of Klena performing “My Petersburg” at the 2017 BroadwayCon. YouTube commenters have been quick to fill in “I grew up in the Roxbury slums” as the song starts in a nod to “Chip on My Shoulder” from “Legally Blonde.”6. ‘In a Crowd of Thousands,’ ‘Anastasia’ — Christy Altomare and Derek Klena
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=75DQsX4aUto This song is a sweet addition to the “Anastasia” songbook, and gives a deeper look into the relationship between Anastasia and Dimitri. Have I been listening to this on repeat for days? You bet. Have I gotten tired of it? Not a chance.7. First Look: Anastasia on Broadway
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kx3Ddcrgldg Watch this video to see a series of show clips that feature some of the stunning scenery and costumes in the show.8. Never Have I Ever: Derek Klena of ‘Anastasia’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jtF-pVg5Ukc Okay, so this isn’t exactly music from the show, but listening to Klena reveal secrets surrounding broken bones, slutty Halloween costumes, cutting his own hair and falling onstage just makes you love him even more.9. Russian Rhetoric With Derek Klena | TYLER MOUNT
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y-Eo0mALSSg In this video, YouTube sensation Tyler Mount plays “Russian Rhetoric” with Klena, who makes Mount guess the meaning of Russian phrases — and reveals we still have 13 new songs to look forward to!10. Hot Sauce Roulette With Christy Altomare | TYLER MOUNT
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7OxJYIf3BS4 “Oh my god, she will go far, it is my boo, Christy Altomare!” In this video, Mount returns to play “Hot Sauce Roulette” with our favorite star.11. ‘Anastasia The Musical’ Cast Stopped by to Perform Tony Awards Series! | Billboard
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8w3Uw9EzvzM In this video, Altomare and Klena perform “Once Upon a December,” “My Petersburg” and “In a Crowd of Thousands.” Yeah, we know these songs appear earlier on in the list, but they have yet to get old. Because this show is pretty new to Broadway, it means we still have plenty of other videos to look forward to as more is released to the public. So use these videos to tide you over before the cast album drops on June 9 — you’re gonna need them!What's your favorite video? Leave us a comment below...
[post_title] => 11 YouTube Videos To Watch If You're Obsessed With 'Anastasia' On Broadway [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => 11-youtube-videos-watch-if-youre-obsessed-with-anastasia-broadway-musical [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2017-07-06 11:26:38 [post_modified_gmt] => 2017-07-06 15:26:38 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=8667 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 1 [filter] => raw ) [27] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 8643 [post_author] => 391 [post_date] => 2017-05-25 09:41:41 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-05-25 13:41:41 [post_content] =>1. The Structure of ‘Love Never Dies’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=47dUc4iMAvQ Although it suffers from a weak story, the musical “Love Never Dies” has some beautiful music and has obvious parallels to its predecessor, “The Phantom of the Opera.” Among the borrowed tropes are a Phantom solo in the first act (“‘Til I Hear You Sing”), Christine’s big second-act solo (“Love Never Dies”), a rock-influenced duet in the first act (“The Beauty Underneath”) and an erotic duet between the Phantom and Christine (“Beneath a Moonless Sky”). https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W4teFe_zf6Y2. The Outro of ‘Look With Your Heart’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=voBWbeEwMjE In “Love Never Dies,” the music box melody at the end of this number (which signals the Phantom’s quiet entrance) is the identical opening melody of “The Point of No Return” in “The Phantom of the Opera.” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4ZZWCPiwfvU3. The Song ‘Love Never Dies’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SgFXm_oAA2E A more appropriate title might be “This Song Never Dies.” The song’s melody debuted as “The Heart Is Slow to Learn” in 1998 at a Royal Albert Hall celebration of Lloyd Webber’s music. The chorus melody was then recycled as “Our Kind of Love” for Lloyd Webber’s musical “The Beautiful Game.” The song’s third and final form was as the title song for “Love Never Dies” in 2010.4. The Song ‘Music of the Night’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i1RQr7BZCSA The song “The Music of the Night” from “The Phantom of the Opera” was the subject of controversy after the estate of Giacomo Puccini filed a lawsuit against Lloyd Webber. Puccini’s estate had argued that the melody in the lyrics “Silently the senses abandon their defenses” was stolen from an excerpt of the opera “La Fanciulla del West.” The lawsuit was settled out of court. Lloyd Webber had originally planned to use the melody for “The Music of the Night” under different lyrics for his show “Aspects of Love,” but that song, titled “Married Man,” was cut from the final version of “Aspects.” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=86uFsfbFYbs5. The Song ‘Make Up My Heart’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vSdqJ_CvYm8 Speaking of Puccini, the opening riff of this song from “Starlight Express” is almost identical to the opening of “Musetta’s Waltz” from Puccini’s “La Boheme.” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=frQHBszDHps6. The Title Theme From ‘The Phantom of the Opera’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y_DnrnD7Tsg The chromatic title theme of Lloyd Webber’s most famous musical is eerily similar to a certain riff from Pink Floyd’s song “Echoes.” The band’s bassist at the time, Roger Waters, never sought legal action, claiming that “life's too long to bother with suing” Lloyd Webber. Some people have even pointed out similarities to the intro of Debussy’s “Prelude to the Afternoon of a Faun.” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0S3fpgrZ9ys7. The ‘Mirror Scene’ From ‘The Phantom of the Opera’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qhMc7ZLULKo The line, “I am your Angel of Music” sounds suspiciously similar to a passage (skip to 1:20) from “The Battle on the Ice” from Sergei Prokofiev’s “Alexander Nevsky.” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-oRbStmxvm48. The Song ‘I Don’t Know How to Love Him.’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WYYgpZiStdc Mary Magdalene’s solo from “Jesus Christ Superstar” has been scrutinized for sounding too similar to the Andante movement from Mendelssohn’s “Violin Concerto in E Minor” (skip to 0:33). https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3WAWzvadIGA9. The Song ‘Memory’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4-L6rEm0rnY “Memory” from the musical “Cats” has been noted for its similarities to the main melody in Maurice Ravel’s “Bolero.” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q4wb11w0ZHQ10. ‘King Herod’s Song’ and ‘Try It And See’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BaOfBQ5uw6M The melody to “King Herod’s Song” from “Jesus Christ Superstar” was originally taken from “Try It and See,” which Lloyd Webber wrote for the Italian rock singer Rita Pavone. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yqnW-EHiTiM11. The Duet ‘All I Ask of You.’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CnptZC341nM The classic duet from “The Phantom of the Opera” was originally a solo that Lloyd Webber wrote titled “I Don’t Talk to Strangers,” recorded by opera superstar Plácido Domingo. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kUAagx3maAY12. The Song ‘’Til I Hear You Sing’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vaQCVzUn4oQ The Phantom’s solo from “Love Never Dies” borrows a melody from “If Not For Me, For Her” from Lloyd Webber’s “The Woman in White.” The Phantom’s melody for “And sometimes at nighttime, I dream that you are there” is almost identical to Marian’s lyrics “I know that I’ve wronged you, and that I can’t defend.” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vROqgU5V6gg13. The Song ‘As If We Never Said Goodbye’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-SL48bIzNGM In Norma’s big solo from Lloyd Webber’s “Sunset Boulevard,” the melody for the lyrics “I don’t want to be alone / That’s all in the past” is identical to the original version of “Half a Moment” from “Jeeves.” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h4Ycz3j5gYg14. The Song ‘If This Is What We’re Fighting For’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6bL_zYjusOQ The opening for this solo in Lloyd Webber’s “The Beautiful Game” is almost identical to “Will This Last Forever?” from his show “The Likes of Us,” which was written in 1965 but not performed until 2005. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c0bTlkVPg4U15. The Entire ‘Variations’ Set
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p1lpCszsOMU Lloyd Webber’s “Variations” set (1978) is based on the theme from Paganini’s 24th Caprice, a virtuoso showstopper for classical violinists. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uALsg4aWKB0 [post_title] => 15 Times Andrew Lloyd Webber (Allegedly) Copied Music From Himself Or Others [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => 15-times-andrew-lloyd-webber-allegedly-copied-music-others [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2017-05-25 09:41:41 [post_modified_gmt] => 2017-05-25 13:41:41 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=8643 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 4 [filter] => raw ) [28] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 8626 [post_author] => 736 [post_date] => 2017-05-24 08:04:45 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-05-24 12:04:45 [post_content] => New York City is the heart of the American theatre community. Broadway, Off-Broadway, regional theatre, tours and everything in between come to the Big Apple to audition some of the best theatre talent in the world. If you’re looking to pursue a career in this market as a performer, make sure you are familiar with some of the realities of being a NYC-based actor. It will help you proactively take steps to mentally prepare for what lies ahead when you’re out pounding the pavement.1. There Will Be Long Waits
Open calls, both union (known as Equity Principal Auditions and Equity Chorus Calls) and non-union cattle calls are the most popular ways for those new to NYC to get seen for all the auditioning theatre jobs. Being that these are the most easily accessible to actors at any level, they are also the most crowded and sometimes require many hours of waiting all day to be seen to strut your stuff. Make sure you are prepared to wait and keep your mind busy by bringing a good book, iPad to watch movies or television and or busywork. It will make you much happier if you can keep your mind and spirit positively occupied during long waits.
2. You’ll Wake Up Early
Lining up for auditions and guaranteeing you’ll be seen requires waking up at the crack of dawn. Depending on how the audition will be, you may need to get in line as early as 5:30 a.m. (and yes, there are people who show up even earlier). If you show up any later than 7 a.m., don’t be surprised if there is a line around the block and hundreds of people in front of you.
3. You’ll Wait in the Cold
You may or may not be used to harsh winters, but NYC does have them, and a good bulk of auditions happens during those months. This means you’ll be waiting in lines outside in the cold until those audition studios open up for the day. Be sure to wear layers of winter clothes and buy portable hand warmers so you’ll stay cozy and warm.
4. You’ll Have Multiple Auditions on the Same Day
During busy audition season, multiple auditions can happen on a single day. This means you could potentially go back and forth across town many times in a few hours, first to sign up for all these auditions, then to actually attend them. To make this happen, get your stamina up, keep good track of time and plan out your day in advance as best you can to know exactly where and when you need to go.
5. You’ll Have to Strategically Pack for the Day
Unless you live right in the heart of the Midtown Theatre District where most auditions occur and can bolt home between auditions, you need to cope with the reality that you’ll have to carry everything on your person that you need for everything you’re planning to do that day. Many performers have solved this issue by investing in a small rolling suitcase or rolling backpack. You can usually fit all you need into these, and it won’t hurt your body from carrying so much stuff on your back or shoulders with other heavy bags and purses. Definitely invest in one before you head into the NYC audition scene.
6. Know All the Nice Bathrooms
There’s nothing glamorous about getting ready for auditions in NYC. Sometimes, the audition studios have places to change, and sometimes they don’t. Prepare yourself that you may be stuck changing in the nearest Starbucks or McDonald’s restroom. Once you’ve been on the audition scene for a while, you’ll start to learn the not-so-publicized locations to change into your best duds. Helpful hint: Hotel lobbies and free tourist destinations usually have lovely bathrooms.
7. You’ll Do 8-, 16- and 32-Bar Cut Auditions
With the number of people auditioning, it’s very normal that you can be asked to sing eight, 16 or 32 bars of a song if you’re auditioning for a musical — literally just a snippet of a song to see if you are the voice type they’re looking for. Make sure you have many music options for these types of auditions. It’s usually not said in advance what type of cut will be asked for (as creative teams are often seeing how many people show up to the audition and how much time they have to see auditionees), so be sure to plan your different song options in advance.
8. There Will Be Typing
Typing occurs a lot. This is when a lot of actors are brought into the audition room at once and the creative team takes a quick look at everyone in person and decides within a few seconds whether they need to see more from you. Everyone who they don’t need to see perform is dismissed. It is a very quick process, and a huge reality in the NYC audition scene. Although this may seem frustrating and unfair, you can choose to look at it as a positive occurrence. If you’re typed out, you can go about with your day and move on to other auditions. If you’re typed in, it means your chances just got better of actually booking the gig.
Have you encountered these realities as you auditioned in New York? What have you experienced? Let us know in the comments below...
[post_title] => 8 Realities Of Auditioning In NYC [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => 8-realities-auditioning-nyc [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2017-05-24 08:04:45 [post_modified_gmt] => 2017-05-24 12:04:45 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=8626 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [29] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 8620 [post_author] => 12 [post_date] => 2017-05-22 12:02:21 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-05-22 16:02:21 [post_content] => You’ve just gotten the news that you’ve been cast in a production — hooray! You’re now part of a team who will work together to make magic and possibly even some miracles, so why not bond with your fellow thespians as much as possible? The grueling rehearsal process can be enough for some to break bread, but it can good to build camaraderie outside the theatre, too.Here are seven ways to create a stronger community between you and your castmates:
1. Host a Potluck Dinner
Getting together with your entire cast before rehearsal and sharing a meal can be a wonderful connecting experience. Really, though, when does food not bring people together?
2. Relate Over Reviews
Those first reviews can be nerve-wracking, so why not do it as a team and endure the anxiety together? Adding a little coffee or cronut to the mix will help sweeten the deal.
3. See Another Show
Go hit the theatre and see another production to get you psyched up for the one you’re all working on. Nothing sparks conversation among thespians like seeing a show.
4. Play Stage Games
OK, so this one is tricky and you shouldn’t do it during an actual performance. But who doesn’t love a good stage game (or, shall we say, stage shenanigan?) One popular option is sneakily passing a small object from actor to actor without the audience or director knowing. Just don’t get caught!
5. Go on a Group Outing
What better way to build togetherness than going out for a group hike, hitting the lanes for some bowling or even playing some mini golf? Quietly getting to know one another in the wings is one thing, but hiking up a snowy mountaintop is quite another. Of course, there’s always karaoke for the less outdoorsy types.
6. Watch the Movie of Your Show
If there’s a movie version of the production you’re in, gather together and watch it as a group — with the bonus of popcorn!
7. Do Community Outreach
Round up the cast and crew, pick a cause, don your show shirts and give back to your theatre-loving community. Host some volunteer classes for kids, pick up litter in the area or sing at your local retirement home. Performing acts of kindness as a group will surely bring you and your cast together.
What other ways do you like to bond with your castmates? Let us know in the comments below...
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You May Like: Can We Guess What Type Of Thespian You Are Based On Your Starbucks Order?
[post_title] => Only A Real Theatre Nerd Can Ace This Quiz [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => only-a-real-theatre-nerd-can-ace-this-quiz [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2018-10-20 11:27:57 [post_modified_gmt] => 2018-10-20 15:27:57 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=8631 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 2 [filter] => raw ) [31] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 8623 [post_author] => 639 [post_date] => 2017-05-19 08:17:55 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-05-19 12:17:55 [post_content] => Some musicals that originated as films have been some of the biggest hits on Broadway. Sometimes these new takes on classic films can go terribly wrong, but more often than not, these musicals recreate and add to these films to make them something new. Of course, some films can be harder to adapt than others. There are some things in films that cannot be reproduced onstage, while there are some movies that don’t need songs. However, this hasn’t stopped people from trying to get their favorite film to the stage. At the moment, there are so many more productions in the works based on films, including “Freaky Friday,” “Roman Holiday” and “Moulin Rouge.” Who’s to say whether all of these will be successful (our money is definitely on “Moulin Rouge”), but when it works, it really works. Here are eight amazing musicals based on films:1. ‘Kinky Boots’
Based on the 2005 British film starring Chiwetel Ejiofor and Joel Edgerton, this brilliant adaptation took a decent film and made it a showstopping musical. With a book by Harvey Fierstein and music by Cyndi Lauper, this show most definitely deserved its 2013 Tony Award for Best Musical. Why it’s great as a musical: What this musical does more effectively than the film is hone in on the message: Just be who you want to be, never let them tell you who you ought to be. Of course, this is a line from the finale, but the musical drives this message from beginning to end. And with music like “Raise You Up/Just Be” and “Everybody Say Yeah,” it’s hard not to be thoroughly entertained. Also, Lola in the film is good, but Lola in the musical is infectious. Billy Porter took home the Tony for originating this role for a reason.2. ‘Once’
This indie Irish film about two musicians crossing paths is romantic and inspiring. The film’s iconic “Falling Slowly” won best original song at the Oscars, so it’s no surprise this film was adapted into a musical. With music by Glen Hansard and Markéta Irglová, who also starred in the film, it was interesting to see whether the musical could be as effective as the film. The musical turned out to be insanely successful, winning eight Tony Awards, including one for Best Musical.
Why it’s great as a musical: What truly brings this musical to life is the ensemble. They act as dancers, singers and musicians throughout the show, making the whole production feel very organic. The scene of “Gold” alone is brilliant to watch. Having stayed true to the original story and remastered songs, this show brings the music and story alive in a way the film couldn’t do.
3. ‘Billy Elliot’
This coming-of-age story about a boy who wants to be a professional ballet dancer is both heartwarming and entertaining. The 2000 film the musical is based on won multiple BAFTA awards and was nominated for multiple Oscars as well. What makes both the film and the musical so special is the title character himself. The talent he needs to exude along with the emotional performance is what makes this story so effective. Aside from winning Best Musical at the 2009 Tony Awards, this show made history with a Tony Award first: Three actors were nominated for an award in the same role. David Álvarez, Trent Kowalik, and Kiril Kulish all won the Tony for their portrayal of Billy Elliot.
Why it’s great as a musical: This may be obvious, but the dancing. The title character is dazzling to watch onstage. “Electricity,” based on a speech Billy gives in the film, is particularly impressive. Aside from the amazing dance numbers throughout the show, the main message is to show kids to not be afraid to express themselves, no matter what they want to do.
4. ‘The Lion King’
‘Beauty and the Beast’ may have been the first majorly successful Broadway hit based on an animated Disney film, but then came “The Lion King.” The movie was a huge success, with music by Elton John and the story very loosely based on “Hamlet.” Then came the musical, which changed the Broadway landscape as we know it. Opening in 1997, the show is seen by millions of people every year and is one of the highest-grossing shows on Broadway. Why it’s great as a musical: Along with new songs and scenes being added to this production, including “One by One” and “Endless Night,” this show has become iconic for its costumes. All of the actors and dancers have intricate costumes, moving with different tools and puppetry throughout the show to create the illusion there are really animals onstage. You can’t help but feel like you’ve been transported to the Pride Lands as “The Circle of Life” picks up and you’re looking at a giant mechanical elephant to your left walking down the aisle.5. ‘Hairspray’
Based on John Waters’ 1988 film of the same name, this musical became an instant modern classic when it opened on Broadway in 2002. The show also garnered 13 Tony Award nominations, taking home eight wins. Most notably, Marissa Jaret Winokur won a Tony for bringing Tracy Turnblad to life onstage. The musical definitely kept the quirky feel of the film while also enhancing the characters. The musical has since been turned into a film of the musical, along with a live broadcast that took place this past winter. Why it’s great as a musical: For a film that revolves around music and dancing, it makes sense that the story include music and dancing. The musical brings the film to life with a revamped “Corny Collins Show” that does not exist in the film, complete with its own theme, “The Nicest Kids in Town.” Though the musical is definitely a lot louder than the film, it still focuses on the issues that are at the heart of the movie.6. ‘The Color Purple’
The 1985 film, based on a book of the same name, stars Whoopi Goldberg in her Golden Globe-winning performance. The film centers around Celie, who endures terrible things throughout her life. Her story is inspiring because she persists despite the odds stacked against her. With producers on the musical such as Quincy Jones and Oprah Winfrey, this musical was set to succeed. Though it was beat out for Best Musical by “Jersey Boys” in 2006, LaChanze did win Best Actress in a Musical for her portrayal of Celie.
Why it’s great as a musical: What truly makes this musical great is how true it is to its predecessors. The musical does not stray away from the tough scenes or the heart of the movie. It only magnifies these things with the amazing soul and gospel music throughout, with “I’m Here” as a particular standout.
7. ‘The Producers’
This musical holds the record for most Tony Awards won by a single musical production. Yes, that means it has won more Tony Awards than “Hamilton.” The smash 1968 hit film of the same name blew audiences away with this bizarre concept of a film, along with the bizarre concept within the film: a scheme to make money by presenting a musical about Nazis. The film and the musical have both become classics in their own right. Nathan Lane and Matthew Broderick not only originated the roles of Max Bialystock and Leo Bloom onstage, but they reprised their roles in the 2005 musical film. Why it’s great as a musical: The main focal point of the film is the musical the two main characters are creating. What better way to experience that musical than in a musical? With all its dance numbers and physical comedy throughout, the musical does not disappoint.8. ‘Anastasia’
Yes, this is a new one and has yet to prove itself like the others, but it has a lot going for it. For one, it’s based on the 1997 animated film. If you grew up in the ‘90s loving this movie, this musical definitely delivers. However, unlike the animated film, there is no Rasputin. The stage adaptation takes a more realistic approach, introducing a Leningrad officer as the main antagonist. But it’s OK, because Ramin Karimloo plays said officer. Why it’s great as a musical: The iconic songs “Once Upon a December” and “Journey to the Past” are in the musical, along with a bunch of new original songs including “In a Crowd of Thousands.” These songs add to an already great story and rounds out the characters a little more, particularly that of Dmitry. This romantic musical focuses on a young woman trying to find herself and still feels new, even as it combines great qualities of a classic musical. That, and Derek Klena absolutely nails Dmitry.What is your favorite musical based on a film? What film would you like to see made into a musical? Let us know in the comments below...
[post_title] => 8 Musicals Based On Films That Totally Got It Right [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => 8-musicals-based-on-films-that-got-it-right [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2020-09-18 10:28:56 [post_modified_gmt] => 2020-09-18 14:28:56 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=8623 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 14 [filter] => raw ) [32] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 8615 [post_author] => 391 [post_date] => 2017-05-18 09:18:32 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-05-18 13:18:32 [post_content] => Another opening, another show… The opening of any musical can make it or break it, and it’s the most important way to grab the audience’s attention and make a first impression. Openers create the portal in which audiences find themselves in the musical’s plot. While certain openers are more subtle and intimate, others are massive spectacles that immediately intrigue their audiences. Ranging from more traditional sounds to rock musicals, here are 15 of our favorite contemporary opening numbers:1. ‘Omigod You Guys’ from ‘Legally Blonde: The Musical’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=47D8ZJUMI8k A favorite choice among high schools, “Legally Blonde: The Musical” has one of the most recognizable opening numbers in contemporary musical theatre.2. ‘Alexander Hamilton’ from ‘Hamilton’
It seemed as if no one could escape 2016 without hearing something about “Hamilton” and its opening number, which fuses hip-hop with history to tell the “ten-dollar Founding Father’s” story.3. ‘Hello’ from ‘The Book of Mormon’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OKkLV1zE8M0 This catchy opening sequence has spawned numerous covers and even a “South Park” sequence. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sKIOqJns5N84. ‘Circle of Life’ from ‘The Lion King’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_0OdIcCQG9I The live version of this iconic Disney song is chock full of extravagant puppets, authentic costumes and colorful makeup.5. ‘Miracle’ from ‘Matilda: the Musical’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SZ8LigH4IVE Tim Minchin’s 2011 West End hit opens with a birthday party where the children and their parents brag about their unique traits.6. ‘Prologue’ from ‘Natasha, Pierre and the Great Comet of 1812’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kKK7TDqw9PY This swingy intro to Dave Malloy’s musical adaptation of “War and Peace” explains the plot and characters to a quick, toe-tapping beat!7. ‘Just Another Day’ from ‘Next to Normal’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gk8yQM8Q--c This rock musical opens with a dysfunctional family practicing their morning routines.8. ‘No One Mourns the Wicked’ from ‘Wicked’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-glmbVlqxLY The opening to Stephen Schwartz’s biggest show shows the Ozians cheering Elphaba’s death and Glinda explaining her friendship with Elphaba.9. ‘Mama Who Bore Me’ from ‘Spring Awakening’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kvS3POd1YYI This angsty opening to the musical features a group of adolescent girls who lament not knowing what it means to be a woman.10. ‘Fancy Dress’ from ‘The Drowsy Chaperone’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sopiYMOiQmQ In this opening, the audience meets the characters, the most notable of which, Janet van de Graaff, is giving up her career for married life.11. ‘What I Was Born to Do’ from ‘Bring It On: The Musical’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=23mm7NIp6zo This thrilling opening sequence features a group of headstrong cheerleaders introducing themselves.12. ‘Welcome to the Renaissance’ from ‘Something Rotten!’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9fvmVhpc0fc This Shakespeare-inspired comedy opens with the Minstrel familiarizing the audience with the end of the Renaissance.13. ‘Underground’ from ‘Memphis’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hL42kO_xRrE This rock-n-roll-inspired musical opens at an underground bar in 1950s southwestern Tennessee. The show discusses the rising popularity of black music in white communities.14. ‘Take Me to Heaven’ from ‘Sister Act: The Musical’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yH0yhq-bxVY Long before she enters the convent, Deloris is seen here as a nightclub singer in hopes of scoring a record deal.15. ‘When You’re an Addams’ from ‘The Addams Family’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xdoOCgV0Z14 While visiting a graveyard, Gomez sings to his family about honoring the cycle of life and death.Did we leave out your favorite contemporary opening scene? Let us know in the comments below...
[post_title] => Hello! 15 Best Contemporary Opening Numbers In Musicals [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => 15-best-contemporary-opening-numbers-musicals [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2017-05-18 16:33:26 [post_modified_gmt] => 2017-05-18 20:33:26 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=8615 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 19 [filter] => raw ) [33] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 8579 [post_author] => 736 [post_date] => 2017-05-16 09:52:10 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-05-16 13:52:10 [post_content] => Auditions are a fact of life for every performer. They can be very stressful and sometimes even overwhelming, especially when you really want to book a gig. Here are five easy tips to ensure you are more relaxed before you walk into the audition room:1. Stay Away from the Vampires
Stay away from the people in the audition room or waiting area who seem to be giving off a very nervous energy and/or are having negative conversations. These vampire auditionees suck your positive, prepared energy and can affect your psyche in an unproductive way.
Do everything in your power to keep away from them, as you don’t want to end up having a bad audition because of their attitude. This may mean stepping outside the holding room and waiting in the hallway until your turn is up or finding a corner of the room where no one can bother you.
If by some chances these vampires are friends of yours, don’t be afraid to kindly tell them you are trying to stay focused so you will rock your audition. They should understand. Then, move quickly toward a more positive atmosphere.
2. Keep Yourself Busy
Busy your mind to tune out vampires and/or keep any of your own insecurities and inner negative voices at bay. Better yet, keep yourself busy with something that takes you to your happy place, whether you’re watching your favorite television show on your iPad, listening to inspirational music, reading a book, doing yoga stretches, meditating, coloring, doing a crossword puzzle or even continuing to study those sides. Keeping your mind busy and happy means staying present and in the moment, so you won’t be as worried about your impending audition.
3. Make Plans for After Your Audition
Having something fun to do after an audition leads to positivity in the audition, too. Your mind is unconsciously looking forward to what’s next. Also, don’t be afraid to plan to treat yourself to a job well done once your audition is over. This way, you are setting yourself up for success, not failure. Don’t worry — even if you don’t have the best audition, your plans become a way to keep your mind off any bombed or not-so-great auditions once they’re over.
4. Don't Go Telling Others
As much as everyone loves to share on social media, don’t tell people (including friends and family) about your auditions before you do them. You are setting yourself up for expectations and the undue pressure and emotional stress put upon you by others who want to ask what it’s for and how you did, give you their opinions of how right or wrong for the part you are or even react negatively as another performer who didn’t land the appointment you did.
5. Stack the Deck in Your Favor
Last, if the stress of an important audition is going to wreak havoc on your nerves no matter what you do, stack the deck in your favor. If sides have not been given to you, choose to use material you know you can do in your sleep (figuratively speaking, of course). This way, you can do the best audition you possibly can and won’t be as nervous about it.
On the other side of the coin, if the casting or creative team gives you sides to learn, make sure to get as much practice and performance with the material before the audition as possible. You can even set up a few mock auditions with supportive individuals or mentors, where you can run through them and get out those initial nerves and stress that comes from performing new material for the first time. You’ll be surprised by how quickly practicing your audition in front of people will lessen stress and allow you to have much more fun when it comes time for the real thing.
How do you shake your nerves before an audition? Let us know in the comments below...
[post_title] => Stressed Out? 5 Tips For Keeping Calm At Auditions [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => five-tips-for-keeping-calm-auditions [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2017-05-16 18:33:53 [post_modified_gmt] => 2017-05-16 22:33:53 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=8579 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 2 [filter] => raw ) [34] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 8506 [post_author] => 12 [post_date] => 2017-05-15 09:54:35 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-05-15 13:54:35 [post_content] => TED Talks are great ways to educate, motivate and inspire. The best part is you can listen to them at home while you wash the dishes or from your phone during your daily commute. Here are five TED Talks that are not only great in and of themselves but can also be applied to your acting career:1. What I Learned From 100 Days of Rejection: Jia Jiang
Rejection is part of any actor’s life. Even the best of the best still deal with rejection, and learning to cope is an ongoing and ever-evolving experience. That’s why Jia Jiang’s TED Talk about his 100-day rejection challenge is perfect for every actor. In this entertaining and enlightening talk, Jiang discusses how to turn rejections into opportunities through a 100-day rejection challenge where he does everything from asking strangers for money to asking for burger refills. His experiences will leave you with a new and profound respect for what it means to be rejected and how to turn those rejections into opportunities for growth.2. Keep Your Goals to Yourself: Derek Sivers
Actors are constantly creating new goals for themselves. Whether it’s getting a new agent, producing a play or adding new songs to your repertoire, there’s always new ways to push yourself. In this podcast, Derek Sivers talks about the importance of keeping your goals to yourself in order for them to actually become a reality.3. My Journey from Marine to Actor: Adam Driver
Need some inspiration? In this heartfelt TED Talk, Adam Driver tells his story of going from flailing actor to joining the Marines to re-entering the acting world. He shares his difficult journey from soldier to civilian while describing the unique similarities between the theatre world and the military world. It’s through these experiences that he was led to begin his nonprofit, Arts in the Armed Forces, which brings theatre to the military.4. Why Women Should Tell the Stories of Humanity: Jude Kelly
In this extremely well-articulated talk, theatre director Jude Kelly discusses the importance of women’s voices in storytelling and art. She rallies artists of all kinds to see the world in a more gender-neutral light. Regardless of whether you are an actor, director, set designer or even an accountant, you should hear this talk.5. 8 Secrets to Success: Richard St. John
In this lightning-fast TED Talk, analyst Richard St. John teaches the eight most important things that lead to success. Is your acting career on the road to success? Is it all luck? Or is there something more to it than that? If you have three minutes, use this TED Talk to find out.Want more actor-friendly talks? Check out “Talks for Theatre Geeks,” a nine-talk playlist assembled by TED.
[post_title] => 5 Amazing TED Talks For Actors [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => 5-amazing-ted-talks-actors [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2017-05-15 09:54:35 [post_modified_gmt] => 2017-05-15 13:54:35 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=8506 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 1 [filter] => raw ) [35] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 8612 [post_author] => 712 [post_date] => 2017-05-12 09:41:59 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-05-12 13:41:59 [post_content] => Ring! Ring! Unfortunately, as a theatre nerd, you’ve most likely experienced a cringeworthy audience disruption during a show — and always during the most vulnerable scenes! Whether it’s taking a photo with the flash on (*palm to head*), Madonna texting (what?!) or the ever-rude cell phone ring (*palm to head again*), Broadway stars seem to have endured it all. While professional performers generally power through, some interruptions are far too distracting and must be stopped in order for the performance to successfully continue. From Lin-Manuel Miranda to Laura Benanti, here are five Broadway stars who halted their show to quiet a disruptive audience member:5. Keira Knightley in ‘Thérèse Raquin’ (2015)
The famous actress wowed audience members with her Broadway debut performance in ‘Thérèse Raquin,” but there was one attendee whose affections she could have gone without. During the first preview, the show stopped because of Keira Knightley’s stalker.
According to Broadway World, social media was abuzz with the incident, with one user detailing, “Show was stopped because an audience member, who I thought was part of the cast, stood up by the front mezzanine railing and asked Keira Knightley to marry him. He was escorted out, but not before he threw a huge bouquet of flowers from 5 rows up on to the stage.”
Another user wrote, “There was apparently a Keira Knightley stalker at ‘Thérèse Raquin,’ who came in and yelled ‘Christ was born of a virgin! Keira, marry me!’”
A Broadway World member named jacobstf took to the site’s message board to further explain what happened: “After a very awkward silence, Gabriel Ebert motioned to Knightley, they walked over to the bouquet and kicked it into the wings (which got applause). After trying to resume the show, a voice came over the speakers announcing there would be a short break."
Yikes! Ignoring him was definitely the smartest thing to do. After the scary incident, Roundabout, which produced the show, amped up its security measures.
4. Laura Benanti in ‘She Loves Me’ (2016)
Laura Benanti called out a cell phone ring during a matinee performance of “She Loves Me” on April 2016. The Tony winner was in the middle of singing the emotionally charged song “Will He Like Me?” when she heard the interruption. Like the pro she is, she initially kept singing, softly squeezing a “Hello” into her song. As the ringing persisted, Playbill reported, Benanti became irked, saying “I’ll wait” and then “We’ll all wait” as the orchestra paused with her. As soon as the ringing subsided, Benanti picked up her song exactly where she left off.
The entertainer addressed the incident on Twitter the following day:
She also shared a link to “Look Up,” a song she performed with The Skivvies that is the perfect anecdote for rude theatergoers.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e3FNlo1ft5w
3. Annaleigh Ashford in ‘Sylvia’ (2016)
When in doubt, bark! Annaleigh Ashford told Playbill she “thought that something dire must be happening” when an audience member picked up her phone and had a full conversation during a performance of “Sylvia.” How did the Tony winner deal with the disturbance? With a completely in-character dog bark, of course!
“We’re very lucky to be in a play that is set up so that if a cell phone rings, I can bark at it. It’s much easier to recognize and acknowledge it and handle it lightly than in other plays,” Ashford told Playbill. “If the same phone goes off more than once, it’s usually someone who doesn’t know cell phones very well. Well, in this case, the second time it rang, she picked up and answered and started talking. It turned into a full conversation. The audience around her started shushing her, but she kept talking. We could hear it onstage.”
After two pages of dialogue, Ashford recalled that she and costar Matthew Broderick gave up on continuing the scene, as the offending theatregoer was still disrupting the audience.
“It became very clear that the audience was so distracted that they weren’t in the world of the play anymore,” she said.
Finally, someone around the woman helped her to hang up the phone and turn it off.
“We told the audience, ‘We’re going to go back, if you don’t mind,’” Ashford said. “That got applause. We briefly talked about where to go back to, then we took positions and started the scene again. The audience was with us 100 percent.”
2. Lin-Manuel Miranda Deals With Madonna Interrupting ‘Hamilton’ (2015)
It seems like Madonna should have taken a note from her hit song, “Hung Up” and hung up her phone. While she might be an international superstar, the singer was just another audience member when she watched an Off-Broadway performance of “Hamilton” at the Public Theatre. After arriving late, the star was allegedly texting during the show, prompting Miranda himself to ban her from visiting backstage afterward.
“Tonight was the first time I asked stage management NOT to allow a celebrity (who was texting all through Act 2) backstage. #noselfieforyou,” the Pulitzer Prize-winning genius wrote in a since-deleted tweet. That’s right — not even Madonna is excused from being disruptive!
1. Patti LuPone in ‘Gypsy’ (2009)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WruzPfJ9Rys What else did you think would be No. 1? No one should mess with Broadway legend Patti LuPone. She clearly has no patience for audience disruptions, becoming known as a performer who calls attention to the bad ones. In perhaps her most famous “audience handling,” LuPone paused her showstopping final number in “Gypsy” to yell. During “Rose’s Turn,” she certainly turned, shouting at rude audience members who were taking illegal photos throughout the show. “Stop! Stop taking photos right now!” she screamed, schooling the offenders. “You heard the announcement. Who do you think you are? How dare you? Get them out! I won’t continue if they’re taking pictures. This is the theatre!” A group of ushers immediately came to escort the impolite theatregoers out. Met with uproarious applause, LuPone started the show again. The incident was the day before the show closed.Do you think the performers handled their situation well or know of another instance like this? Let us know in the comments below...
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