Review: JERSEY BOYS at Osceola Arts
Jukebox musicals are a polarizing topic in the world of musical theatre. For fans of an artist or group whose music is used as the score of a musical, these can often be favorites due to the familiarity and affinity one might have for the songbook. For musical purists, however, jukebox musicals often feel like one is being cheated out of a new, original score, not to mention the fact that many times these types of shows employ very thinly constructed books (e.g., ALL SHOOK UP) or stories that verge on the truly absurd (e.g., ESCAPE TO MARGARITAVILLE). But there are a rare few of these productions that get the mix right – making them enjoyable for both sides of the theatrical aisle and can often be the recipe for a megahit. Such is the case with JERSEY BOYS, the 2005 Tony Award winning musical which tells the story of the formation, success, and breakup of the hit Rock and Roll group, The Four Seasons including lead singer, Frankie Valli. This high energy, audience favorite opens the 64th season for Osceola Arts in Kissimmee and is a highly entertaining and solid production – one that is sure to please fans of the show and newcomers alike.
Review: THE ENGAGEMENT PARTY at Geffen Playhouse
“How to Ruin a Relationship in One Easy Step,” is a definitive alternate title for, THE ENGAGEMENT PARTY, a smart, little 80-minute, light drama written by Samuel Balm, directed by Darko Tresnjak, currently at the Geffen Playhouse, Gil Cates Theater.
Interview: Playwright Samuel Baum Wholeheartedly invites You to His ENGAGEMENT PARTY
Up next at The Geffen Playhouse, Samuel Baum’s The Engagement Party West Coast premieres October 12, 2023 (with previews already in progress). Darko Tresnjak directs the cast of: Richard Bekins, Bella Heathcote, Brian Lee Huynh, Mark Jacobson, Wendie Malick, Brian Patrick Murphy, Jonah Platt and Lauren Worsham. Samuel squeezed out some time from rehearsals and previews to answer a few of my queries.
CB30 Releases New Track Someone Else's Summer
Buena Vista Records’ emerging duo CB30 are sharing a brand-new track, “Someone Else’s Summer.' Piano, guitars, and the pair’s vocal harmonies combine on the song to paint a nostalgic picture of a summer love that ended too soon. “Someone Else’s Summer” is written by Ben Williams, Colin Healy and Patrick Murphy, and produced by Paul DiGiovanni.
Maddie & Tae Extend 'All Song No Static' Tour With Spring 2023 Dates
Following fan demand and numerous sold-out shows in 2022, the pair will take the stage in 12 additional markets for a high-energy set filled with #1 hits (“Die From A Broken Heart,” “Girl In A Country Song”), fan-favorite tracks, album cuts, and music from their recently-released eight-song collection, Through The Madness Vol. 2.
KAUFMAN CENTER PRESENTS Spring 2023 Shows Announced
Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts has announced the Kauffman Center Presents spring 2023 line-up. These events promise to deliver extraordinary and diverse experiences featuring internationally recognized artists and performers for Kansas City audiences. High-res photos with IDs can be found here.
BWW Readers Respond to Cell Phone Use in the Theatre
We asked, and you answered! In her exclusive BroadwayWorld column, Industry Editor Cara Joy David delved into the the evolution of cell phone use in the theatre, from the backlash against Jeremy O. Harris's view of phone use to Freestyle Love Supreme's use of Yondr. We asked our readers to speak up about if inappropriate cell phone use has ruined their theatre experiences. Check out some of the standout answers below!
Brijean's Debut EP WALKIE TALKIE Streaming On Gorilla Vs. Bear
This Friday, just in time for summer, Brijean - the sunny disco-pop project of acclaimed percussionist Brijean Murphy (Toro y Moi, U.S. Girls, Poolside) and producer Doug Stuart - will release its debut, the Walkie Talkie EP. Today, the duo is sharing an advance stream of the full EP with Gorilla Vs. Bear, who write, '[it] sounds a bit like Stereolab gone full-on dreamy disco-pop, Brijean's silky vocals wafting over an infectious tropical groove that feels destined to soundtrack countless pool parties and topdown twilight drives up the coast.'
Queensland Music Festival Announces 20th Anniversary Program
Queensland Music Festival today launches a transformative state-wide program unfolding an unforgettable musical journey through the cities, regions and remote corners of Queensland and celebrates twenty years of bringing the gift of music to all corners of the state. A program which focuses on musical excellence, curiosity and creation, public participation and making a difference through music, the biennial event cements its place as the 'largest, most diverse music festival in the world'.
Pasadena Playhouse Completes Cast of John C. Reilly Led GATHER
Pasadena Playhouse, the State Theater of California, is pleased to announce that casting is complete for Gather: Surprising Stories & Other Mischief. Academy and Tony Award Nominee John C. Reilly and an amazing ensemble of actors will craft a spirited evening of Story Theater, which Reilly has created with Patrick Murphy, who will also direct. The production will play Friday, May 24 through Saturday, June 22, in the Carrie Hamilton Theatre of the Pasadena Playhouse.
BRIJEAN (Toro y Moi, U.S. Girls) Announces Debut EP WALKIE TALKIE, Premieres SHOW AND TELL Video
Oakland percussionist Brijean Murphy has made a name for herself as the effortlessly cool conga player in live bands with Toro y Moi, U.S. Girls, and Poolside. Today she steps into the spotlight, announcing her debut EP as Brijean, a collaboration with producer/multi-instrumentalist Doug Stuart. The Walkie Talkie EP will be released on June 28 on Native Cat Recordings and features the disco-pop lead single 'Show and Tell.' The 'Show and Tell' video premiered today on Stereogum, who write, 'The track opens up with a pulsating bass line accented by dripping chimes. A funky melody on a keyed instrument gives way to a fun, disco feel as an intense conga section rises and maintains throughout.'