ANYTHING GOES Opens 6/5 at Theatre Memphis

Anything Goes opens June 5 and runs through June 28, 2015, on the Lohrey Stage at Theatre Memphis. A shining example of classic musical theatre with epic tap dancing, a madcap book and a wonderfully unexpected and romantic happy ending, the unforgettable Cole Porter score includes "De-Lovely," "I Get a Kick Out of You," "All Through the Night" and, of course, the great title song, "Anything Goes." Set aboard the S.S. American, the singing-dancing ocean liner overflows with wealth, sailors, a stowaway, gangsters, an evangelist, Wall Street brokers and the most irresistible of showgirls, the brassy-but-lovable Reno Sweeney.

Amy Hanford directs this Theatre Memphis production which is the final show of the 2014 -15 season. Hanford has previously directed major musical productions at TM including Chicago and The Music Man. "Every show has it challenges," Hanford states, "but this is a fast paced show which should leave the audience gasping for breath at intermission." A strong cast including local favorites Barry Fuller, Ann Sharp, Joe Lackie, Emily Pettet and Emily Chateau always assures "... the audience is in for a treat," she adds. Other cast members number over 30 community performers and create a strong ensemble that she admits is "high energy."

Appearing as one of the lead roles, Reno Sweeney, Whitney Branan returns to Theatre Memphis by Actor's Equity waiver having last appeared in the 1999 TM production of A Chorus Line. Following her dreams like her A Chorus Line character, Branan moved to New York City in the Fall of 2003 and she currently works in the city as a dance instructor and choreographer. Her credits since leaving Memphis range from regional to Broadway productions which include Billy Elliot,The Drowsy Chaperone, Pippin, Hairspray, Grease and Once Upon a Mattress.

Theatre Memphis Executive Producer Debbie Litch delights in Anything Goes being a part of the Theatre Memphis season. "There is no better show to end a season on a high note with," she smiles. "And the diverse cast with so much talent is what Theatre Memphis is all about."