The Marriage Matinee

In the repertoire of well-known musicals, FIDDLER ON THE ROOF is right towards the top. It is a beloved tale of human resilience, prejudice, romance, humor, loyalty, and the not-so-simple intricacies of navigating family life in a changing world. It speaks to theatergoers around the world on different levels, and that tradition remains strong in the current production of FIDDLER ON THE ROOF at Beef & Boards. 

I had the absolute pleasure of attending Million Dollar Quartet at Beef & Boards, and I can't recommend it highly enough! From the moment the lights dimmed, I was transported back to that legendary day in 1956 when four rock 'n' roll legends came together for an impromptu jam session at Sun Records. This show is an electrifying celebration of music history, and the talented cast absolutely nails it!

We recently had the pleasure of attending 'Legally Blonde: The Musical' at Beef & Boards, and it was an absolutely phenomenal experience from start to finish. The production was a brilliant blend of humor, heart, and high-energy performances that left the audience thoroughly entertained and inspired.

Tina: The Tina Turner Musical, gracing the stage of the illustrious Murat Theatre, is an exhilarating journey through the life and music of one of the most iconic figures in the history of popular music. Spanning two acts, this production not only celebrates Tina Turner's unparalleled talent but also delves into the personal triumphs and tribulations that defined her extraordinary career. In this review, we will explore the production's standout elements while offering a neutral perspective on its portrayal of the legendary singer and the key figures in her life.

Surrounded by the political intrigue, Rasputin's influence on the royal family, and the enduring mystery of any potential survivors of the Romanov tragedy -- Enter ANASTASIA a musical at Booth Tarkington Civic Theatre that dares to explore the tantalizing possibility that one of the Czar's daughters may have lived on.

Tina Turner’s name evokes an instant reaction. Those four simple syllables have a unique weight and impact to them because she was such a tour de force. Yet behind the powerhouse and beyond the glittering lights, Tina Turner had a past. A past that included a mother-daughter relationship that was fraught with trials. But Tina’s mother, Zelma, has a story all her own that shows a human being fighting to deal with the cards life dealt her. We listened and learned more from Roz White who plays Zelma in TINA: THE TINA TURNER MUSICAL. She gave us an impassioned interview about her character and the depths of the woman she was. 

Hadestown, the Tony Award-winning musical, has continued to enchant audiences with its unique blend of myth, music, and storytelling. Recently, a performance at Clowes Memorial Hall offered a glimpse into this underworld tale, showcasing both the production's prowess and the talent of its cast.

MAMMA MIA! is an electrifying and heartwarming musical that never fails to delight audiences, and the national tour I experienced last night was no exception. From start to finish, the production was filled with infectious energy, stunning choreography, and, most importantly, incredible vocal performances.

We recently had the pleasure of interviewing Nico DiPrimio, a star in the cast of the Broadway touring production of MAMMA MIA! He shared with us the ins and outs of his experiences and gave us a peek behind the curtain of this beloved musical.

We have had the privilege over the last few years to speak with Leslie Broecker, President of Broadway Across America Midwest, about her work to bring the best and the brightest of Broadway to the stages of Murat Theatre at Old National Centre downtown and Clowes Memorial Hall at Butler University. We once again got the inside word on how this season came to be and what to know about this new lineup. 

Last night, I had the pleasure of immersing myself in the timeless melodies and poignant story of 'Beautiful: The Carole King Musical' at Beef & Boards. From start to finish, the production radiated charm, nostalgia, and heartfelt emotion, leaving the audience entranced and uplifted. As I reflect on the evening's performance, there's no doubt in my mind that this rendition of the beloved musical was nothing short of spectacular.

'To Kill a Mockingbird' remains relevant and poignant, addressing themes that resonate across generations. The play's success lies not only in its compelling source material but also in the exceptional talent of the cast, particularly the nuanced portrayal of Atticus Finch and the authentic depiction of the children. This production is a testament to the enduring power of storytelling and its ability to provoke introspection and empathy, making it a must-see for theater enthusiasts and fans of the literary classic alike.

There can be no doubt that there is a great weight to any role in TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD. It is a classic novel, but it is so much more to those of us who have read it and absorbed its intensity, integrity, and challenge to evaluate our own biases. As it finds new life as a play, we had the privilege of speaking with Justin Mark who plays Jem in the current touring production. He gave us insight into his process and the ways this story still resonates with a modern audience.

Any show that calls itself 'Something - the Musical' is unabashedly announcing to its audience: 'We're goofy, and we know it.' This production unabashedly embraces its cheesiness from the start. Any critic versed in this theatrical tradition wouldn't have anticipated Menopause the Musical to be a highbrow experience. Those who dismiss the show based on reviews might miss a unique chance to witness older female actors taking center stage and openly discussing menopause.

There are many films that can be considered iconic, and that is especially true of holiday films. However, there is a special place in so many hearts for Irving Berlin’s WHITE CHRISTMAS. Its staying power has held true since its premiere in 1954, and there can be no doubt as to why. Every scene is full of charm, a dash of humor, and of course singing and dancing. Throw in Beef & Boards, and you’re guaranteed to have a truly festive feast!

FROZEN the film has captivated audiences with its magic, charm, and music since its release in 2013, and FROZEN the musical is all the same elements with some important and impactful twists. It’s a true spectacular and engaging for audience members young, old, and everything in between. So if you have any reservations about seeing this production on stage, let it go!

For the first time in forever, you’ll be able to watch FROZEN not on your television screen but live on stage at the Murat Theatre as a full-fledged musical. In anticipation of this fantastical experience, we were lucky enough to speak with Preston Perez who is starring as Hans in the touring production. We got to hear about his journey to the stage and also about his unique take on what makes Hans such an intriguing character. 

Originally created by Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber more than 50 years ago, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat is gracing the stage of Beef & Boards. Fun fact that this show was what launched Rice and Lloyd Webber’s illustrious careers, continuing with more musical collaborations including Jesus Christ Superstar and Evita.

GRUMPY OLD MEN split guts and warmed hearts when it first hit theaters as a movie in 1993, and its musical adaptation is no different. The musical on stage now at Beef & Boards maintains all of the charms and chortles of the original and incorporates new, reimagined moments for many of the characters. The musical provides an extra dose of reflection on the importance of living in the moment and recognizing the relationships you have, the relationships you neglect, and the relationships you may be missing out on.

Looking for twentieth-century aesthetics (think an Art Deco club) and swingin’ music, making your heart sing, you’re in luck. Duke Ellington’s “Sophisticated Ladies” is a 1981 musical revue of the back of Duke’s celebrated history. From early songs like “The Mooche” and “Mood Indigo” to later hits “I’m Beginning to See the Light” and “Satin Doll,” this vogueish revue taps (literally) the Duke’s music back on the stage where it rightfully belongs.