Today begins five months of Best of Broadway premieres and new theatre engagements in San Francisco. Producer Carole Shorenstein-Hayes says “San Francisco is a theatrical destination, not just a stop on the road.” Let's see what treats San Francisco has up its sleeves:
Matthew Bourne's Swan Lake
As part of the 10th Anniversary Tour, Matthew Bourne's innovative, sexy, and stunning original production of Tchaikovsky's “Swan Lake” swims into San Francisco. Director/Choreographer Bourne sheds the traditional tutus and creates a dazzling nearly all-male contemporary creation that has been heralded since its 1995 premiere in London. “Swan Lake” has amazed audiences on Broadway, throughout Britain, Europe, and Tokyo; and has won over 30 international theatre awards including three Tonys.
“Matthew Bourne's Swan Lake” will play the Orpheum Theatre March 21st to April 16th. Performances are Tuesday through Saturday evenings at 8pm; Wednesday, Saturday, and Sunday matinees at 2pm, with a running time of 2 hours 30 minutes (including intermission). Tickets range $35 to $85.
Slava's Snowshow
Earlier this month, “Slava Snowshow” producers David Foster and Ross Mollison announced the second company of the production would launch a North American tour beginning in San Francisco. Created by Slava Polunin “Snowshow” is a remarkable theatrical experience that melds the art of clowning and mime with stunning spectacle, fantasy, and visual effects…only to conclude with a breath-taking and explosive snowstorm that engulfs the entire audience.
“Slava's Snowshow” has earned international acclaim including the 2005 Drama Desk Award for Unique Theatrical Experience and the Olivier Award for Best Entertainment.
“Slava's Snowshow” will play the Golden Gate Theatre April 11th to May 7th. Performances are Tuesday through Saturday evenings at 8pm; Wednesday, Saturday, and Sunday matinees at 2pm. Tickets range $37 to $75.
Martin Short: Fame Becomes Me
Celebrated comedian Martin Short introduces the pre-Broadway world premiere of his original show “Fame Becomes Me.” The one-man musical comedy, co-written by Marc Shaiman and Scott Wittman of Broadway's “Hairspray,” describes itself as an “uproarious Broadway extravaganza, with huge and unnecessary set changes, stampeding livestock, unpatented pyrotechnics, and a live birth at select matinees. Filling the stage with unforgettable characters…Short brings over 20 years of comic genius to the Broadway stage - and leaves it there.” There is a special video message from Martin Short at the BestofBroadway-SF website below.
“Martin Short: Fame Becomes Me” will play the Curran Theatre April 25th to May 21st. Performances are Tuesday through Saturday evenings at 8pm; Wednesday, Saturday, and Sunday matinees at 2pm. Tickets range $30 to $90.
Peter Pan
Tony award nominee and two-time Olympic gymnast Cathy Rigby gives her farewell performance as Peter Pan in the beloved family musical based on James M. Barrie's classic novel.
“Peter Pan” shares the adventures of the three Darling siblings in the magical Neverland where they encounter the villainous Captain Hook and his pirates, a tick-tocking crocodile, and the fair fairy Tinker Bell. “Peter Pan” has a score by Moose Charlap, Carolyn Leigh, Jule Styne, Betty Comden and Adolph Green.
“Peter Pan” will play the Orpheum Theatre May 10th to May 21st. Performances are Wednesday through Saturday evenings at 7:30pm; Wednesday, Saturday, and Sunday matinees at 1pm; Sunday evenings at 6pm. Tickets range from $25 to $75.
A Chorus Line
In the summer of 2006 “A Chorus Line” will once again be the one singular sensation with its pre-Broadway revival in San Francisco. “A Chorus Line” kicked down doors in 1975 as the smash musical about the ambitions of Broadway dancers. It won nine Tony awards including Best Musical and the Pulitzer Prize for Drama and later became the longest-running American musical of its time. “For a new generation, it's a chance to experience the quintessential Broadway musical. For others, it's an opportunity to reconnect with a cherished friend.”
“A Chorus Line” will play the Curran Theatre July 23rd to September 2nd. Show times and ticket prices will be announced soon.
For complete information on theatre locations, show dates, times, and ticket prices visit www.bestofbroadway-sf.com.
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