BWW Interviews: Donald Corren in GSP's THE FABULOUS LIPITONES

The Fabulous Lipitones will be at George Street Playhouse (GSP) from November 18th through December 14th. This new musical comedy is written by John Markus and Mark St. Germain. Directed by Michael Mastro, the show stars Donald Corren, Wally Dunn, Rohan Kymal and Jim Walton. Broadwayworld.com had an opportunity to interview Donald Corren about the show.

Corren is making his George Street debut and he brings an impressive theatrical background to the GSP stage. His Broadway credits include originating the role of Cosme McMoon opposite Judy Kaye in Souvenir, and Arnold in Torch Song Trilogy. Off-Broadway credits include The Fantasticks, Old Jews Telling Jokes, The Soap Myth, The Last Sunday in June and Saturday Night. He has appeared around the country on regional stages including The Guthrie, Westport Country Playhouse, Pittsburgh Public, Capital Rep, Geva, Asolo Rep, Arena Stage and many others. On television, he has been seen on ZNation, Law & Order, Law & Order: Trial by Jury, Law & Order: Criminal Intent, Rescue Me and Martha Stewart Living.

The Fabulous Lipitones is about a barbershop quartet that loses a key member. The three surviving members suddenly find themselves scrambling to find a tenor before the national competition. When the golden tones of "Bob" are heard through the phone, the Lipitones are all ears. But when they meet him in person, he is not quite what they expected. This production is an uproarious comedy of misunderstanding, stereotypes and the path to perfect harmony.

Donald Corren plays Phil Rizzardi, the longtime barbershop quartet member who is also a fitness gym owner. And it is Phil who is leary of replacing the Lipitones' lost member and prefers to end the quartet altogether. Corren commented, "Phil makes excuses and creates real obstacles for the group."

Corren spoke about how The Fabulous Lipitones is truly a distinctive musical comedy. "There is an incredible focus on the gorgeous harmonies." He also said, "The story is enhanced by these great harmonies and the show is driven by the barbershop style. As an actor and a singer, I have never experienced anything like it. For me, it has been revelatory."

Corren believes that the show will have a broad appeal for area audiences. "The Fabulous Lipitones tells a story that people can relate to. And there is also the uniqueness of the barbershop presence that is in the center of the lives of the characters."

Corren also mentioned that the youngest member of the show's multi-talented cast, 25 year-old Rohan Kymal, is currently a YouTube sensation.

Corren has high praise for George Street Playhouse. "I have always heard a lot of great things about George Street over the years and I am happy to be working there." He further stated, "New Brunswick is a great town with a lot of energy."

The Fabulous Lipitones will at George Street Playhouse through December 14th. The Playhouse is located at 9 Livingston Avenue in the heart of New Brunswick's vibrant theatre and restaurant district. For ticketing and information visit www.georgestreetplayhouse.org or call their box office at (732) 247-7717.

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