Review: THE WIZARD OF OZ Drops Into Musical Theatre West in Long Beach
Delightfully charming but also now slightly dated, MTW's expectedly family-friendly, colorfully saturated production is indeed a lovely, mostly entertaining stage recreation of the movie classic. But curiously, at times, the show feels subdued and tamed-down, and in dire need of an extra jolt of energy to match the story’s wildly madcap, campy premise.
BWW Review: THE LITTLE MERMAID Enchants at Musical Theatre West
Currently docked at the Carpenter Center for the Performing Arts in Long Beach through July 28 is Musical Theater West's wonderfully vibrant new regional production of THE LITTLE MERMAID, Disney's Broadway stage adaptation of their hit 1989 animated classic, which itself was adapted from the Hans Christian Andersen fairy tale. The resulting show achieves a cheerful, pleasant, and often charming hybrid that honors the original Disney-esque qualities of the film, but also shows what one may call a 'director's cut'---wherein the new 'extras' expand the musical even further in size, elements, and thematic mood. MTW's production is a visual treat.
BWW Review: MTW's OLIVER! Exudes Thrill and Joy
Oliver!/book. lyrics and music by Lionel Bart/ based on Charles Dickens' novel Oliver Twist//directed by James A. Rocco/choreographed by Hector Guerrero/musical director: Ryan O'Connell/MTW (Musical Theatre West)/The Carpenter Performing Arts Center, Long Beach/through February 24
Oliver! is a devilishly fine musical by Lionel Bart who wrote the book, music and lyrics without collaboration. It's an uplifting story of an abused orphan who learns how to survive in 19th century London with the help of acquaintances from both sides of the track. Currently onstage via MTW at the Carpenter Center in Long Beach, the musical boasts a superb cast headed by Davis Gaines as Fagin and 15 delightful and talented child actors.
The Palace Theatre to Stage THE PRODUCERS, 3/21-4/5
The Palace Theatre welcomes The Producers, a musical adaptation of Mel Brooks' 1968 film "The Producers," on Friday March 21st at 7:30pm. This show is the winner of a record breaking 12 Tony Awards. Fading producer Max Bialystock, convinces accountant Leo Bloom to partner with him in producing a show for Hilter. The Producers is a show about scoundrels with ill intentions that turn into raging success! The humor of the show stems from ridiculous accents and many show business jokes.
Photo Flash: Sneak Peek at ELF THE MUSICAL, Coming to TUTS Starring Tommy J. Dose and More!
Theatre Under The Stars (TUTS) today announces the cast for the new holiday classic, Elf The Musical, running tomorrow, Dec. 6 - 22 at Hobby Center's Sarofim Hall. Making his TUTS debut as the loveable 'elf' Buddy is Tommy J. Dose. He played Alfred Doolittle in the national tour of My Fair Lady and has circulated the regional theatre scene with companies including the Fulton Theatre, the Lancaster Symphony Orchestra, and the Cumberland County Playhouse. Scroll down for a look at the Seattle production and stay tuned for original production photos from TUTS!
'Treasure Island' Musical Debuts at The Fulton, PA with Herrera
The Fulton is proud to present the world premiere of Treasure Island: A Musical Adventure, with music by Marc Robin and book and lyrics by Marc Robin and Curt Dale Clark. Starring John Herrera as Long John Silver. The show opens on March 6, 2008 and runs through March 22.