BWW Previews: LOCAL ORIGINAL MUSICAL REVUE POP GOES AMERICA DEBUTS at Carrollwood Players Theatre

Coming to The CWP Black Box on June 29-July 1 is Pop Goes America.

Inspired by listening to Lou Vega's Mambo #5, local playwright Jim Russell decided to pen historic tales using the melodies of recognized pop music over a short duration of 3 days. From that inspiration came 24 original songs with dances choreographed by director Drew Eberhard that will take you from the 1800s to modern times over a period of two hours.

"The songs are a mix from the 60's to modern times spanning events in history from 1800s and forward - from the Beatles to P!nk and lots of music in between," said Drew.

Pop Goes America Musical Revue features a cast of 16 as well as live music. Michael Moses performs on bass and guitar, Israel Rivera on percussion and the show's multitasking director plays guitar and piano.

Israel said, "I want the audience to groove as much to these songs as they do the original."

With Drew's colorful set design vision, he wants the theatrical performance to be an immersive and sensory experience.

"Pop music has a place in everyone's lives," said Drew. "Involving the sensory experiences of sight with the bright colors of the set and the auditory sense through live music, it becomes an explosive, immersive experience."

Starring Allan T Anderson, Derek Baxter, Kaedin Cammerari, Michael C de Baca, Joel Ferrer, Taylor Hendershot, Rae Hoggatt, Deb Kelley, Georgia Kosloski, Crystal Marie, Chris McDermott, Chonesty Montgomery, Ronni Moses, Erin Ruska, Chelsie Camaro Smith, Topher Warren, the show features a combination of new and returning faces to The CWP Black Box stage.

Kaedin Cammareri, the revue's youngest performer said, "I hope this show helps people to feel as though they are traveling through the history of America."

What makes this history revue very special is a community partnership recently launched by the nonprofit theatre called "Partnership for Good." Local businesses can purchase tickets and donate to a charity of their choice.

Twenty-five local military men and women will be able to enjoy the show Friday night thanks to sponsorship by Lea Orchard, owner of Great Clips, Carrollwood and a partnership with VetTix.

"Many thanks and appreciation go out to Great Clips in their sponsorship for the Veterans/Servicemen whom served our country," said Drew. "May you enjoy our take on history for we thank you for all you've done for our country. This performance is for you!"

The sentiment is unanimous with this talented cast. Their goal is to make sure the audience has a wonderful time journeying through time, but actor Michael C de Baca summarized it best.

"This show has all the feels, but the best part of the story hasn't been written yet: we're making American history every day, and this diverse cast perfectly embodies our future. Leave this show proud of where we're going and ready to be a part of a positive future."

Pop Goes America - Musical Revue is Friday and Saturday at 8pm and Sunday at 3pm at Carrollwood Players' The CWP Black Box. Tickets are $10. For show information, visit www.carrollwoodplayers.org. For information how to be a sponsor for Partnership for Good, visit www.carrollwoodplayers.org/partnerships-for-good-2018-2019-season.

To post a comment, you must register and login.