Beatrice Arthur: Astral Dame at Empire Stage

Calling all Golden Girls fans, Maude maniacs, and those who love tough broads with soft hearts, Bea Arthur is back! Jason B Schmidt, the worlds premiere (and only) Bea Arthur impersonator, channels the famed Tony and Emmy-Winning star in his deadpan tribute, "Beatrice Arthur: Astral Dame." In the show, Bea is prompted by her celestial stage manager Jimmy Durante to make her way down from the astral plane to the Empire Stage for a STRICTLY limited engagement of her Astral Dame Tour in early May 2021. Expect Bea's most favorite showtunes, showbiz stories and a few surprises only Ms. Arthur could deliver; it's sure to be an evening that is out of this world. The show was originally directed by Amy Anders Corcoran, with original musical direction and backing tracks provided by Mason Griffin. The South Florida debut will feature Jason B. Schmidt alongside his bosom buddy (and local Wilton Manors drag diva) Amanda Austin. Additional staging, choreography and digital show coordination by Jasons husband Anthony Giorgio-Schmidt. Jason B. Schmidt, a NYC based actor, voice over talent and member of the hilarious drag trio, The Golden Gays NYC, has been impersonating the sardonic and sassy Bea Arthur since 2010. While others have perhaps played a "Dorothy" type, Schmidt is the only one to fully embody the late actress in all facets of her marvelous life. Like Arthur, Schmidt has been described as having perfect comic timing. In addition to his extensive Off-Broadway, Off-Off and Regional credits, Jason B. has also traveled the US starring in numerous productions. @Bea_Astral_DameThe Golden Gays NYC are currently booking their post-Covid GOLDEN RETURN TOUR for the 2nd half of 2021 and will headline the Golden Fans at Sea cruise in January 2022. @TheGoldenGaysNYC Special Guest Amanda Austin is a native of North Carolina and moved to Florida in 2007. Amanda can be seen performing, hosting and producing drag shows all over South Florida. In her free time, she enjoys cooking, entertaining and traveling around the world eating. @AmandaAustinDragEmpire Stage is an artist-driven collective that produces new and existing works for the diverse audiences of Ft. Lauderdale, including the LGBTQ and Senior populations. They are committed to presenting dynamic works originating from both the New York City and South Florida theatrical communities. www.EmpireStage.com. For more information: visit www.JasonBSchmidt.com.Tickets are $35 (plus fees). Wednesday May 5th through Saturday May 8th at 8pmSunday May 9th at 5pmDirect ticket link: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/beatrice-arthur-astral-dame-tickets-146823383693Friday May 7th will be broadcast on Stellar Tickets for those not in the South Florida area. https://www.stellartickets.com/o/beatrice-arthur/events/beatrice-arthur-astral-dame/occurrences/c81e0268-e567-4940-a9d7-8027967a2671