Dutch Apple's Les Misérables is Sure to Impress

There were no empty chairs at empty tables in the Dutch Apple Dinner Theatre this past weekend, and there's a good reason for that. Dutch Apple's production of the classic musical Les Misérables opened over the weekend and proved to be a top notch show filled with a stellar cast that is sure to impress.

Based on the novel by Victor Hugo, Les Misérables follows prisoner 24601, a.k.a. Jean Valjean, as he is released from 19 years in prison. Upon his release, Valjean immediately gets caught stealing silver from the Bishop of Digne, but the Bishop's kindness encourages Valjean to seek a better life.

The show doesn't waste any time proving its talent. The opening "Prologue" features a strong ensemble of male voices, quickly followed by the impressive talent of Jacob Waid in the lead role of Jean Valjean. Waid's operatic voice is a perfect fit for this demanding role, and the audience is treated to an award-worthy performance from him. His vocals are impeccable, as demonstrated in songs like "Bring Him Home," and his acting talent is equally impressive. Also quick to impress with vocal talent is Amanda Kuchinski, who plays Fantine. She showcases her flawless voice in her beautiful performance of "I Dreamed a Dream." Her acting isn't quite on par with her singing, and if I'm being really critical I wasn't a fan of the wigs that she wore, but her voice is so good that it's easy to look past this.

In the role of Javert, Adam Clough provides a performance reminiscent of Russell Crowe in the 2012 movie version of Les Misérables, with the only major difference being that Clough is actually good. Other notable performances include John Anker Bow in the role of Thernardier and Maya Naff as Eponine. Both Bow and Naff have solid acting talent with the voices to match. Additionally, the ensemble as a whole is extremely talented, and the company numbers are a highlight of the show. Supporting cast members also provide quality performances that aren't quite as impressive as those of Waid, but nonetheless are good fits for the show.

While the talented cast of this production far outweighs the show's weaknesses, there are a few areas that don't quite live up to the high quality that the overall production provides. For starters, the set -- while visually appealing -- is extremely loud. Often during a quiet start of a solo or song, the set is loudly rolled on or off the stage, providing an unwelcome distraction. Another downfall to the show is the orchestra. With a small orchestra consisting only of trumpet, trombone, reeds, and percussion, the show features a mix of live and recorded music. The recorded music is often a welcome treat due to an unacceptable number of missed notes by the live musicians, most consistently the trumpet player. With a cast as talented as this one, it's unfortunate that the orchestra isn't of comparable quality. But in spite of its few weaknesses, the show comes through and ultimately treats the audience to a spectacular production.

At the end of the day, Dutch Apple's production of Les Misérables is a not-to-be missed performance full of talent. Les Miz veterans will be pleased with the quality of this show, while first-timers will be given a first-rate introduction to the renowned musical.  

Les Misérables plays at the Dutch Apple Dinner Theatre May 7 through June 13, 2015. Additional details and ticket information can be found at www.dutchapple.com.

The Illusionists – Live From Broadway – Coming to Hershey Theatre

The world’s best-selling touring magic show, The Illusionists – Live From Broadway, will take the stage at Hershey Theatre on Saturday, October 3 and Sunday, October 4. 

Tickets for this show are $29.00, $55.00, $65.00 and $75.00 (processing fees apply). They are available at Hershey Theatre Box Office. They can be charged by phone at 717-534-3405 or 800-745-3000, and online at www.HersheyEntertainment.com or www.TicketMaster.com. 

Having shattered box office records around the world, The Illusionists – Live From Broadway is now touring the United States. This mind-blowing spectacular showcases the jaw-dropping talents of five of the most incredible illusionists on earth. Full of hilarious magic tricks, death-defying stunts and acts of breathtaking wonder, The Illusionists have dazzled audiences of all ages. Creative Producer Simon Painter said, “We can’t wait to bring this electrifying show on the road for a truly entertaining experience for the whole family. The Illusionists is the most non-stop and powerful mix of outrageous and astonishing acts ever to be seen on the live stage.” 

For more information, please visit www.TheIllusionistsLive.com.

'Chess The Musical' Comes to Lancaster

PRiMA is celebrating the 30th anniversary of the musical Chess with their upcoming main stage production. The show plays Sundays, May 17, 24 & 31, at 7:00 p.m. at Willow Valley Communities Cultural Center Theatre.

By the composers of Mamma Mia and the lyricist of Jesus Christ Superstar and Evita, this intense story is woven together in what Time Magazine calls "one of the best rock scores ever produced." Featuring songs like "Anthem" and "One Night in Bangkok," Chess has a cult following for its classical music mixed with pop rock.

When the original concept album of Chess was produced, the Cold War was not far from the minds of the American public. The story follows Russian and American chess-playing rivals (loosely based on characters surrounding the historical Bobby Fischer) and their mutual love interest, Florence Vassy, whose estranged father is either imprisoned or dead at the hands of the Russian army.

PRiMA’s production focuses on telling the story of Chess through a contemporary lens, as international tensions continue to be relevant, 30 years after the musical was written. “These political rivalries mirror the interplay on a personal level, as characters use each other to their own ends, destroying themselves and each other as they progress,” says PRiMA’s Executive Producer and Director of Chess, Mitch Nugent. "We see the damage done when people use each other like pawns, but also that even the person who’s made a million mistakes always has the option to choose a more selfless path."

Tickets ($22, $38, $50) are available at primatheatre.org or 717.327.5124.

(L-R) Jay Poff, Bethany Swiontek, and Bryon Smith will star in PRiMA's upcoming production of Chess.

2015 Tony Awards Nominee Predictions

The snow has all melted. The trees and flowers are starting to bloom. Robins are searching for the perfect nesting place. All this can only mean one thing... It's Tony Awards season!

At 8:30am tomorrow (April 28), Bruce Willis and Mary-Louise Parker will co-host this year's Tony nominations announcement in a live webcast. And before the nominees are revealed, I like to make my predictions of which productions I think will be up for nomination this year.

Starting with the category of Best Play, here are the shows I predict will hear their names called tomorrow morning:

• The Audience
• The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time
• Disgraced
• Hand-to-God
• Wolf Hall Parts One & Two

Here are my picks in the category of Best Musical:

• Finding Neverland
• Fun Home
• It Shoulda Been You
• Something Rotten
• The Visit

In the category of Best Revival of a Play, my picks are:

• The Elephant Man
• It's Only a Play
• Love Letters
• This Is Our Youth

And finally, in the category of Best Revival of a Musical, I'm betting on:

• On the Town
• On the Twentieth Century
• Side Show

What are your thoughts? Have you seen any shows that you're sure will get nominated (or win!) this year?

For a complete list of eligible productions or information on tuning into the live announcement tomorrow morning, please visit the Tony Awards website.

Stay Tuned!

There's an event coming up in NYC next week that's held annually by the Commercial Theater Institute. It's a 3-day course that focuses entirely on producing theatre. Networking opportunities, presentations by Broadway producers, panels covering various areas of producing... Sounds amazing, right? Well I haven't even told you the best part... I'M GOING TO IT!!!

Can you tell I'm just a little bit excited? I feel like a little kid gearing up for a trip to Disneyland.

Remember back in January when I shared my goal/dream to produce my own show(s)? I know I haven't posted much more about that, but that doesn't mean I've forgotten about it. In fact, it's the exact opposite. Over the past few months I've been busy taking steps to get this process started and make my dream a reality. And attending the CTI 3-Day Producing Intensive is just one of these steps.

Now, I should probably tell you that I'm not a very patient person. I'm working on it, but for the most part when I set my mind to something I want it to happen immediately. So these past few months have been absolute torture for me. As more and more ideas for new and buzz-worthy musical theatre experiences pile up in my head, all I've wanted to do is make them happen. But something like a new musical with unique and innovative aspects doesn't happen overnight. Of course I knew this going into this. But that doesn't make it any easier to sit back and wait for things to fall into place.

I'm really hoping to come back from New York next weekend with a clear path of how to get from point A to point Z. Actually, I might be at point B right now, but I'm still a long way away from point Z. Anyway, I'm hoping this CTI program answers many of my questions, aligns me with some people who are on the same page as I am, and gives me the direction I need to get my ideas on a stage. While I've spent hours upon hours slowly inching toward my dream of producing, my hope is that the CTI program is the boost I need to really send Row L Seat 1 Productions on its way to producing unique musical theatre experiences.

So for now, all I can say is stay tuned! I hope to have some exciting updates for you soon. As always, thanks for reading and for your continued support!

~Kim

How can I keep calm when I'm going to the CTI 3-Day Intensive in just ONE WEEK?!?!

Hershey Theatre Announces 2015-2016 Broadway Season

Hershey Theatre is pleased to announce another highly anticipated season of top Broadway entertainment. Four critically acclaimed productions will grace the stage at the iconic venue.

“Hershey Entertainment & Resorts and the M.S. Hershey Foundation are positively thrilled to announce the 87th season of presenting touring Broadway shows to Central Pennsylvania,” said Dennis Norton, Entertainment Programming Manager, Hershey Entertainment & Resorts. “Milton S. Hershey built the Hershey Theatre to celebrate the performing arts and we are proud to be carrying on his legacy of offering premier entertainment to the region.”

The much-anticipated 2015-2016 Broadway Season programming includes: 

• Once
• Matilda The Musical
• Cinderella
• Ragtime 

About the shows

The variety-filled Broadway season kicks off September 15-20, 2015 with Once. Winner of eight 2012 Tony Awards® including Best Musical, Once is a truly original Broadway experience. Featuring an impressive ensemble of actor/musicians who play their own instruments onstage, Once tells the enchanting tale of a Dublin street musician who’s about to give up on his dream when a beautiful young woman takes a sudden interest in his haunting love songs. As the chemistry between them grows, his music soars to powerful new heights… but their unlikely connection turns out to be deeper and more complex than your everyday romance. Emotionally captivating and theatrically breathtaking, Once draws you in from the very first note and never lets go. It’s an unforgettable story about going for your dreams and the power of music to connect us all.

Matilda The Musical is the story of an extraordinary girl who, armed with a vivid imagination and a sharp mind, dares to take a stand and change her own destiny. Based on the beloved novel by Roald Dahl, Matilda will take the stage of the Theatre November 10-15, 2015.
 
Rodgers + Hammerstein’s Cinderella is the Tony Award-winning Broadway musical from the creators of The Sound of Music and South Pacific that’s delighting audiences with its contemporary take on the classic tale. This lush production will visit January 26-31, 2016 and features an incredible orchestra, jaw-dropping transformations and all the moments you love— the pumpkin, the glass slipper, the masked ball and more—plus some surprising new twists! Be transported back to your childhood as you rediscover some of Rodgers + Hammerstein’s most beloved songs, including “In My Own Little Corner,” “Impossible/It’s Possible” and “Ten Minutes Ago,” in this hilarious and romantic Broadway experience for anyone who’s ever had a wish, a dream... or a really great pair of shoes.
 
At the dawn of a new century, everything is changing…and anything is possible. The Theatre will welcome Ragtime April 26-May 1, 2016. The stories of an upper-class wife, a determined Jewish immigrant and a daring young Harlem musician unfold - set in turn-of-the-century New York - all three united by their desire and belief in a brighter tomorrow. Their compelling stories are set to theatre’s richest and most glorious Tony Award-winning score.
 
In addition, Hershey Theatre is proud to collaborate with All Hands Interpreting Services to provide accessibility to the Deaf and Hard of Hearing Community. Interpreted performances are scheduled for Sunday matinee performances. Liz Marvin, Program Director for Easter Seals echoed Norton’s thoughts stating, ”We applaud Hershey Theatre for this important partnership so that the entire community can enjoy premier entertainment so close to home.”
 
“This is going to be a year to remember at Hershey Theatre, the area’s foremost performing arts center,” continued Norton. “In addition to this outstanding line-up, look for additional show announcements in the coming months.”
 
Subscription packages for these great shows are available now. Tickets for all Broadway shows go on sale to the public on Monday, July 13 at 10:00 a.m. Tickets will be available at Hershey Theatre Box Office, online at www.HersheyTheatre.com, or by calling 717-534-3405.
 
The 2015-16 Broadway series is proudly presented by Capital BlueCross.

'Funny Girl' Brings Ziegfeld's Brightest Star to the Dutch Apple

Funny Girl took the world by storm as a Broadway musical in 1964 starring Barbra Streisand, was adapted into a movie musical in 1968 where Barbra reprised her role, and is now hitting the Dutch Apple Dinner Theatre’s stage from March 26th to May 2nd, 2015. It’s a production full of big musical numbers as well as big personalities!

Funny Girl is the true story of Fanny Brice, who ruled Broadway as Ziegfeld’s brightest star and brought the house down as an outrageous comedienne and singer. Fanny had to fight for her fame, and after her rise to stardom she falls in love with a handsome gambler, but his luck does not quite hold up. You will hear the songs "Don’t Rain On My Parade," "I’m The Greatest Star" and the song made popular by Barbra Streisand, "People."

Portraying the lead role of Fanny Brice is Emerson College graduate, Anna Baker. Professionally, she has been featured regionally in New York and Tennessee, and her favorite roles include Fiona in Shrek the Musical and Annie Oakley in Annie Get Your Gun.

Galloway Stevens is back on the Dutch Apple stage as Nick Arnstein, the handsome gambler that Fanny falls for. Audiences loved Galloway as Lank Hawkins in Crazy For You, and he starred in several of Dutch Apple’s other productions such as The Drowsy Chaperone, 9 to 5 and The King and I. Galloway describes this role as “an unforeseen achievement that fills him with such pride.”

Mrs. Brice, Fanny’s mother, will be played by Kathi Osborne, who has been in over 30 productions with Prather Entertainment Group. Kathi has been performing since age nine and has been around the world in over 500 productions. Playing Eddie, Fanny’s dance director, is Christopher Russell. You may remember Christopher as the Tin Man in The Wizard of Oz, Alex in I Love A Piano, and more recently, Harry in Crazy For You. Mrs. Brice’s three friends, Mrs. Strakosh, Mrs. Meeker, and Mrs. O’Malley will be played by Lisa Coday, Megan Gill, and Megan Orlowski respectively. This will be Lisa’s fourth show straight at the Dutch Apple. Most recently, she was Dinah in Dixie Swim Club. Megan Gill, a 2014 Wichita State University graduate, will be making her Dutch Apple debut! Megan Orlowski was recently seen as Vera in Crazy For You and is also a published author in the Young Adult genre.

Funny Girl will be at the Dutch Apple Dinner Theatre March 26 through May 2, 2015. Ticket prices range from $49 to $56 for meal and show with a special group discount for groups of 16 or more. A limited number of show-only seats are available for $34. Call 717-898-1900 to make a reservation or order your tickets online at DutchApple.com.