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REVIEW: Boston Ballet’s ‘The Sleeping Beauty’ is a regal, dazzling achievement

Posted on May 17, 2018 by The Sleepless Critic

An unexpected hero, an insulted fairy, true love, and a terrible curse make up the enchanting and haunting fairy tale classic as Boston Ballet proudly presents The Sleeping Beauty. Unfolding with elegant and athletic choreography by Marius Pepita and Sir Frederick Ashton, The Sleeping Beauty has returned to Boston for a limited run by popular demand through Saturday, May 19 at the Boston Opera House in Boston, Massachusetts. Click here for more information and for tickets. Click here for a closer look at more of Boston Ballet’s upcoming performances.

A full house including a wealth of excited children gathered inside the Boston Opera House as Ming Luke conducted Tchaikovsky’s famous and dramatic music score, transporting the enthusiastic crowd into a world of royalty, betrayal, innocence, a few familiar fairy tale faces, and a dose of magic. Disney’s popular animated adaptation possesses a few similarities to this captivating tale, but Boston Ballet delivers more to the story. At the center of The Sleeping Beauty was raven-haired Lia Cirio as regal and elegant Princess Aurora, a triumph of athletic grace, her limber body mastering a few of ballet’s most difficult dance moves with impeccable balance, an arabesque garnering particular applause.

Lia Cirio and Boston Ballet in Marius Petipa’s The Sleeping Beauty; photo by Liza Voll Photography, courtesy Boston Ballet

Based on Russia’s Imperial Ballet’s 1890 production, The Sleeping Beauty is a visual treat, boasting finely-detailed costumes and a multi-dimensional set design by David Walker. From ornate, lush and colorful backdrops in gold, red, and green to the enchanting Renaissance era costumes, each scene is a portrait to behold. Wearing wreathed tiaras and dressed in sparkling pink, green, yellow, and blue, the gracious fairies made up of Dawn Atkins, So Jung Lee, Maria Baranova, Maria Alvarez, and Emily Entingh floated, frolicked, and twirled, each displaying their own unique personalities. The energetic yellow fairy was a particular highlight, performing a sweet, joyful, and humorous dance.

Boston Ballet in Marius Petipa’s The Sleeping Beauty; photo by Liza Voll Photography, courtesy Boston Ballet

With a cruel, mocking laugh and appearing in a dark, glimmering carriage was Dalay Parrondo as treacherous Carabosse. Accompanied by a group of monstrous henchmen performed by Tyson Clark, Derek Drillon, August Generalli, and Christian Pforr, Dalay delivered an electrifying performance as an insulted fairy in a haunting display of sharp, rigid movements.

Kathleen Breen Combes and Boston Ballet in Marius Petipa’s The Sleeping Beauty; photo by Liza Voll Photography, courtesy Boston Ballet

Tchaikovsky’s uplifting score hit a crescendo as Rachel Buriassi appeared as the Lilac Fairy. In this adaptation, she acted as a guide, her quick thinking and courage setting her apart. Her skillful performance was most evident among her lively, energetic lilac fairy attendants in a glorious display of fouettes, plies, and pirouettes. She was also impressive in a compelling scene with Lasha Khozashvilli as Prince Desire. Lia Cirio as Aurora and Lasha Khozashvili as Prince Desire had instant chemistry and perfectly complemented each other in a dream-like dance, swept up in love.

The Sleeping Beauty delivers many magnificent performances within this large cast, many taking on multiple roles. From a fascinating, thrilling duet from Maria Alvarez as Little Red Riding Hood and Alexander Maryianowski as the Wolf to a humorous, feline flirtation from Emily Entingh as The White Cat and Irlan Silva as Puss ‘N Boots, many beloved fairy tale characters took the stage in a joyous celebration.

With two intermissions, The Boston Ballet also offers an opportunity to learn more about ballet through The Warm Up, an interactive, photo friendly display located in the lower lobby. Boston Ballet presents The Sleeping Beauty through Saturday, May 19 at the Boston Opera House. Click here for more information and follow the Boston Ballet on Twitter and Facebook.

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Kristen H. Tremblay talks role in Hingham Civic Music Theatre’s ‘Cabaret’ to kick off 70th anniversary season

Posted on April 17, 2018 by The Sleepless Critic

Hingham Civic Music Theatre (HCMT) is thrilled to kick off their 70^th anniversary. Over the past 7 decades, The Wizard of Oz, Rogers and Hammerstein’s Oklahoma, Young Frankenstein, Disney’s Beauty and the Beast and The Sound of Music are just a few of the wide range of musical productions HCMT has produced on the South Shore of Massachusetts. They are launching their milestone season with award-winning spring musical, Cabaret, a captivating musical which celebrated its 50^th anniversary just a couple of years ago.

Photo courtesy of Hingham Civic Music Theatre

Set in the Kit Kat Club in Berlin, Germany as the Nazi Party was rising to power, Cabaret focuses on nightclub girl Sally who becomes embroiled in a love triangle. Winner of multiple Tony awards, Cabaret is known for its glamorous dance numbers while dealing with serious issues of the era. The 1972 film was directed by dance legend Bob Fosse and starred Liza Minnelli in her star making role. This show is not intended for children and contains mature themes.

Sleepless Critic caught up with Kristen H. Tremblay who will make her HCMT debut as Sally Bowles in Cabaret for two weekends only from Friday, April 20 through Sunday, April 29 at Sanborn Auditorium in Hingham, Massachusetts. Click here for more information and tickets.

Kristen H. Tremblay as Sally Bowles

Sleepless Critic: How does it feel to star in the first show of Hingham Civic Music Theatre’s 70^th season? It is quite a milestone.

Kristen H. Tremblay: I’m so thrilled to be playing a leading role in such a great show as part of this wonderful theater group’s 70th anniversary season! A very special honor for sure!

SC: What do you like most about being part of Hingham Civic Music Theatre?

KHT: This is my first production with Hingham Civic Music Theatre. They have such a wonderful reputation and it’s been great getting to know everyone in the group.

SC: This season also includes the beloved musical, Annie this fall. You star as Sally Bowles in Cabaret. Have you ever done this show before? What was the audition process like for you?

KHT: I’m a classical soprano and usually play roles very different from Sally. As I get older, I’m trying to challenge myself by going out for roles that might be a stretch for me creatively. Sally Bowles is a complicated, meaty character and love every moment in her shoes.

I auditioned to challenge myself and because I have known the director, Nathan Fogg, for years and think he does great work. I didn’t think I had a shot at getting Sally, but felt really positive about my audition. The day after the audition, I was in line at the grocery store when I got the call. I was shocked and incredibly thrilled.

SC: The multiple Tony award-winning musical, Cabaret celebrated its 50^th anniversary a couple of years ago. It is a unique musical with memorable songs such as Maybe This Time, Wilkommen, and its famous title track, Cabaret. What was most challenging about this role?

KHT: Sally is an iconic character in musical theater. There’s some intimidation associated with the pressure of doing her justice! She has many sides to her and many intriguing levels. It’s been fun exploring how best to portray her.

Aaron Stolicker as Emcee with cast in production photo

SC: How has it been putting the show together?

KHT: I adore everyone in this cast. They are such a fantastic group of kind, talented, and hard working people. We are having a blast and we all have deeply bonded. No question I’ve made lasting friendships.

SC: What is the best reason one should see Hingham Civic Music Theatre’s Cabaret?

KHT: Cabaret is a very different theatrical experience unlike anything else out there right now. It will not disappoint! It’s edgy, honest, shocking, funny, and thought provoking.

Directed by Nathan Fogg, Hingham Civic Music Theatre proudly presents their spring musical, Cabaret for two weekends from Friday, April 20 through Sunday, April 29 at the Sanborn Auditorium, 210 Central Street in Hingham, Massachusetts. Click here for more information and tickets.

Click here to take advantage of “Facebook Friday” offer exclusively for the April 20 performance. Use password “pineapple” to get a pair of tickets for 35 dollars. Follow HCMT on Facebook.

For Performing Arts news, interviews, reviews, and much more in Boston and beyond, follow us on Facebook @sleeplesscritic and subscribe.

Jukebox rockin’ ‘Smokey Joe’s Cafe,’ epic musical, ‘Ragtime,’ and stirring musical, ‘Oliver’ part of Company Theatre’s stellar 40th season

Posted on November 21, 2017 by The Sleepless Critic

A birdcage, jukebox, a group of kittens, and an orange pocket watch were just a few of the visual clues left on the Company Theatre’s Facebook page in reference to their upcoming 40^th anniversary season. This exciting new season was proudly unveiled at Company Theatre’s annual Open House at the Company Theatre in Norwell, Massachusetts on Saturday, November 18. As the Company Theatre is about to launch an original musical production, Company for the Holidays on November 25, audiences can also look forward to an excellent balance of classic and contemporary theatre productions in the new year. Click here for more information and tickets.

The Company Theatre will offer new holiday fare with Company for the Holidays on Saturday, November 25 through Sunday, November 26 and continuing Thursdays through Sundays through December 17. Shared in three parts with a large ensemble cast, this musical extravaganza includes a new take on a few classics such as All I Want for Christmas is You, White Christmas, and Santa Baby before venturing into a refreshing comedy about Christmas in ‘Bahston,’ and then closing out the show with nativity tale that will bring the audience to their feet.

Take a walk down memory lane with the Grammy award-winning Smokey Joe’s Café, a musical showcase that explores the most enduring songs in rock and roll and rhythm and blues history. From romantic ballads to uplifting rhythms, Smokey Joe’s Café brings remarkable tunes to life. Just a few of the songs featured on the Company Theatre stage includes Jailhouse Rock, Stand By Me, Hound Dog, Love Potion #9 and Fools Fall in Love. Smokey Joe’s Café heats up the Company Theatre for a limited time from February 8-11, 2018.

Robin Williams and Nathan Lane made an uproarious comedy team on the 1996 hit comedy film, The Birdcage, based on the Franco-Italian film, La Cage Aux Folles. The Tony award-winning show, La Cage Aux Folles focuses on a night club owner named Georges and his romantic partner, Albin. Upon learning Georges’ son is engaged to the daughter of an ultra-conservative politician, Georges and Albin may have to go to extreme measures to come off as a wholesome and normal family to hilarious results. La Cage Aux Folles takes the stage on Friday, March 16 through Sunday, April 8.

Earning multiple Tony Awards including best original score, watch three beautiful tales unfold about American life at the turn of the 20^th century with the epic musical, Ragtime. An immigrant, a wealthy family, and a Harlem musician all aspire for hope in the face of struggle to live the American dream. Ragtime opens Friday, July 27 and closes on Sunday, August 19.

The Company Theatre rounds out the season with the British Farce, Loot from Friday, October 5 through Sunday, October 21, and closes with Lionel Bart’s classic musical, Oliver! from Friday, November 23 through Sunday, December 16, about a young orphan who dreams of a better life.

The Company Theatre celebrates their 40th season. Photo courtesy of The Company Theatre

The Company Theatre also announced the new season of The Academy of the Company Theatre which includes Anything Goes, Cats, The Werewolves, The Rocky Horror Show, and Disney’s Mulan Jr. Don’t miss a moment of Company Theatre’s spectacular 40^th season. All performances take place at the Company Theatre, 30 Accord Park Drive in Norwell, Massachusetts.

Click here for more information and upcoming events or call 1-781-871-2787. Follow Company Theatre on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

An avid fan of all things Disney, Sarah Kelly discusses being cast as Disney princess Ariel in Company Theatre’s ‘The Little Mermaid’

Posted on July 20, 2017 by The Sleepless Critic

To Sarah Kelly, award-winning Company Theatre actress, Plymouth State University student, and ardent fan of anything Disney, becoming a Disney princess is another dream come true. Sarah spent last summer on the Company Theatre stage as sunny Elle Woods in the frothy musical, Legally Blonde the Musical, calling it the best summer of her life. She spends this summer under the sea as Disney Princess Ariel in Company Theatre’s production of Disney’s The Little Mermaid from July 28 to August 20 at The Company Theatre in Norwell, Massachusetts. Whether portraying California fashionista turned Harvard law student or a love struck, fish out of water fork enthusiast, what Sarah shares with all of them is her ceaseless optimism.

Sarah Kelly as Ariel Photo courtesy of Zoe Bradford/Company Theatre

Sarah Kelly as Ariel and Chet R. Davino as Eric Photo courtesy of Zoe Bradford/Company Theatre

Sarah Kelly as Ariel and Colin SanGiacomo under the sea Photo courtesy of Zoe Bradford/Company Theatre

Sarah Kelly talks about her returning to the Company Theatre, her new sidekicks, future plans, and her unconventional audition. Click here for further information and for tickets to Disney’s The Little Mermaid.

Sleepless Critic: You seem to fit right into your role of Ariel in The Little Mermaid just a smoothly as you did as Elle in Company Theatre’s Legally Blonde last summer, a role you won an award for. What it was like to win for your first lead role?

Sarah Kelly: Whenever I talk about being a part of Legally Blonde with Company Theatre, I always say it was the gift that kept on giving. It gave me the opportunity to experience leading a show as Elle Woods, work with some of the most incredible and genuine people I’ve ever met, and yes, so blessed to receive ‘Best Actress in a Musical’ from Broadway World Boston. Receiving this award was an absolute cherry on top of the best summer of my life because I didn’t expect to be nominated at all. To be considered was prize enough and winning is one of the most amazing things that has ever happened to me. That official validation meant so much to me.

SC: What interested you in returning to the Company Theatre as Ariel this summer?

SK: Last year in our interview for Legally Blonde, I talked about how Company Theatre’s family vibe and atmosphere immediately stole my heart. I saw a couple of different shows that were put up this past school year. When I returned, I was welcomed back with open arms and felt so at home again. Company Theatre is so much fun and I treasure each day. When I heard they were doing The Little Mermaid, I had to audition because it’s one of my favorite Disney movies and I adore Alan Menken’s work.

SC: How was the audition process for Ariel different from last year’s and how did you prepare?

SK: My audition was extremely different for this role because I did a video audition as opposed to last year where I attended the actual audition at Company Theatre. Unfortunately, I was away at school and auditions for Plymouth State University’s fall season were the exact same days as The Little Mermaid’s auditions and callbacks. It’s easier to show your truest colors at an “in person” audition. Showing what you have as a human being that will make that character you’re trying for special and real is the most important part of an audition. However, I did my best, memorized the sides that were sent to me, and the song I was asked to sing for my callback. I guess it really paid off.

Colin SanGiacomo as Flounder with cast Photo courtesy of Zoe Bradford/Company Theatre

SC: It sure did. Rather than Bruiser from Legally Blonde, you now have a couple of new sidekicks in Flounder and Sebastian. Please tell me what it is like to work on a Disney musical. Is this your first one? The Company Theatre recently completed The Lion King Jr earlier this year.

SK: Yes, unfortunately, I wasn’t able to see their production of The Lion King Jr, but I heard wonderful things and saw some of the gorgeous costumes. Aside from playing Kaa the Snake in The Jungle Book Jr in fourth grade, this is my first Disney show and I am living for it. I grew up purely on Disney movies and music, so to be a part of this kind of process and play a Disney princess is a dream come true. The show is so bright, alive, and magical and the direction this specific production is going does the show itself absolute justice.

SC: I’m sure it must feel a little different to work with a cast who are playing animated characters and creatures. Such a beautiful set!

SK: Yes, we have some of the most passionate humans working on this show. The ever so dedicated James Valentin works extremely hard alongside our own personal superman, Ryan Barrow, who is also known as the hot UPS guy from Legally Blonde last summer. They go above and beyond creating, building, and painting sets. Ryan is one of the many Disney fan girls in our little family and literally will not sleep until everything is perfect. So many talented hands are helping to interpret the movie’s magic and that magic is right onstage. It’s so beautiful. I don’t know how they do it because these two guys are also a part of the cast. I can’t forget the spectacular Bri Plummer, who brings her unique costume designs to life perfectly.

Colin SanGiacomo as Flounder, James Valentin as Grimsby, and Sarah Kelly as Ariel Photo courtesy of Zoe Bradford/Company Theatre

Our absolutely brilliant choreographer, Sally Forrest, has such an incredible vision for this show that people need to see to really understand. She wants the audience to believe they are watching the original Disney movie and trains us to think and be animated characters, which is a lot of fun. The extremely specific motivation and movement direction she gives creates this beautiful and nostalgic picture both children and parents are going to be mesmerized by.

Ronald Vorce as Ursula Photo courtesy of Zoe Bradford/Company Theatre

SC: Have there been any surprises in portraying Ariel? Unexpected challenges? It’s such a fun role.

SK: Ariel is so much fun to portray. I don’t support all of her life choices considering she gives up her gift of a voice for a legs and a man, but that doesn’t mean she’s not a blast to play on stage. She’s sweet, spunky, lovely, and lively. A challenge that I knew I was bound to run into with her is letting Elle from Legally Blonde pop in and out. With Elle, I had much more liberty in character choices and playing up my ‘Sarah-isms.’ Ariel is such an iconic animated figure, not to mention princess, so I really wanted to bring her to life in an organic way while staying true to the original cartoon.

Company Theatre Ariel's Royal Princess Celebration

Photo courtesy of Zoe Bradford/Company Theatre

SC: You’ll be a part of the Company Theatre fundraiser, Ariel’s Royal Princess Celebration on Saturday, August 5 in full Disney princess mode. I’m sure that will be exciting for you.

SK: I’m very excited to be a part of the Princess Celebration! I love working with kids as a day job. Even when I was in the Hingham Parade on July 4, seeing those beautiful little faces looking up at me like I was an actual Disney princess, made me want it to last forever. I look forward to creating some real magic for the kids right here in Norwell on August 5.

Company Theatre 'The Little Mermaid' Hingham Parade

Sarah Kelly as Ariel with Flounder at the Hingham Parade on Independence Day

SC: What are your future plans? Do you have new acting projects in the works after this?

SK: My university is putting on Merrily We Roll Along this fall and I was cast as ‘Gussie.’ I’m looking forward to it. I love a good Sondheim show and I’m portraying a super awful character, but also fun and flirty. Gussie is definitely on the crazy side, which is always a blast! It’s also directed by one of my favorite people, Beth Daily, and assistant directed by my best friend, Val Umbro, a dynamic duo for sure. I’m also grateful to be assistant directing The Trial with Paul Mroczka in the fall. It’ll be such a great challenge and growing experience for me.

Click here to learn more about Ariel’s Royal Princess Celebration fundraiser on August 5. Click here or call the box office at 781-871-2787 for tickets to Company Theatre’s production of Disney’s The Little Mermaid from Friday, July 28 through Sunday, August 20 at The Company Theatre, 30 Accord Park Drive in Norwell, Massachusetts. Follow Company Theatre on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for updates and more.

The Academy of the Company Theatre Teen Conservatory presents the dark comedy, ‘Heathers the Musical’

Posted on June 27, 2017 by The Sleepless Critic

What does it take to be popular? Long before Glinda sang about it in the hit musical, Wicked, or queen bee Regina George and the Plastics ruled the school in the satirical teen comedy film, Mean Girls, the Heathers dominated Westerberg High in the dark cult comedy film, Heathers. Heathers takes a bitingly funny and satirical look at teen life and all the drama that comes with it. Directed by Steve Shannon with musical direction by Melissa Carubia with the Academy of the Company Theatre’s summer workshop program, The Academy of the Company Theatre Teen Conservatory proudly presents Heathers the Musical (High School Edition) on Thursday, July 13 and Friday, July 14 at The Company Theatre, 30 Accord Park Drive in Norwell, Massachusetts at 7 p.m. This show contains mature themes. Click here for tickets and here for more information on the Academy of the Company Theatre.

Heathers the Musical is based on the 1988 film adaptation that stars Winona Ryder, Shannen Doherty, and Christian Slater. A television adaptation is also currently in development. Taking a look at the ruthless side of high school, clever Veronica Sawyer finds her way into the Heathers, Westerberg High’s ultimate, cruel clique, just as she encounters mysterious new boy at school, J.D. In a wild scheme, Veronica plans to show the world life is so much more than popularity.

Performances for the Academy of the Company Theatre’s Teen Conservatory of Heathers the Musical (High School Edition) take place at the Company Theatre, 30 Accord Park Drive in Norwell, Massachusetts on July 13 and 14 at 7 p.m. Click here for tickets or call the box office at 781-871-2787. Click here for more on the Company Theatre and its extensive upcoming productions like Disney’s The Little Mermaid and follow them on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

Bill Hanney’s North Shore Music Theatre presents Disney’s award-winning musical, ‘Beauty and the Beast’

Posted on June 23, 2017 by The Sleepless Critic

A mysterious candlestick, a robust clock, a talkative dresser, an imperfect cup, and a warm tea pot could very well be the right ingredients to true love. On the heels of the blockbuster, live action remake of Disney’s blockbuster film starring Emma Watson, Bill Hanney’s North Shore Music Theatre proudly presents the spectacular, award-winning Disney musical, Beauty and the Beast from Tuesday, July 11 through Sunday, July 30 at North Shore Music Theatre, 62 Dunham Road in Beverly, Massachusetts. Tickets for children up to 18 years old are half price, but no children under the age of 4 are permitted in the theatre. Click here for further details, tickets, and special performances that feature free post-show talks.

Based on the classic fairy tale, Beauty and the Beast is about a prince who resides in a magical castle under a dark spell. Belle is the beloved child of an inventor who seems more interested in the life of a good tale than reality. When Belle’s father gets lost in the forest, a series of events will test their capacity for compassion and love. With music by Alan Menken and lyrics by Howard Asman and Tim Rice, Beauty and the Beast boasts enchanting musical numbers audiences know and love such as Be Our Guest, Belle, Something There, and the musical’s beautiful title track.

Bill Hanney’s North Shore Music Theatre kicks off their 2017 musical season with Disney’s Beauty and the Beast from Tuesday, July 11 through Sunday, July 30. The Mel Brooks musical comedy, Young Frankenstein, the epic musical Evita, the toe tapping 42^nd Street, and the return of the holiday classic, A Christmas Carol round out this year’s stellar season. Follow North Shore Music Theatre on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for updates and more.

The Company Theatre will hold auditions for Disney’s ‘The Little Mermaid’

Posted on April 23, 2017 by The Sleepless Critic

While the award-winning Company Theatre continues their sold-out run of Academy of the Company Theatre’s (A.C.T.) musical production of Disney’s The Lion King, Jr. through Sunday, April 30, another Disney production will soon be in the works. The Company Theatre is going under the sea for the adult version of Disney’s The Little Mermaid, with auditions will soon be held on Wednesday, May 3 and callbacks on Thursday, May 4. Both dates take place at Company Theatre in Norwell, Massachusetts at 6:30 p.m. Click here for further information.

Company Theatre presents Disney’s ‘The Little Mermaid’ this summer. Courtesy of the Company Theatre

Based on the beloved Hans Christian Andersen fairy tale of the same name, The Little Mermaid follows the adventures of Ariel, the mermaid daughter of the mighty king of the sea, King Triton. Accompanied by a crab named Sebastian and a cute little fish named Flounder, Ariel gets a glimpse of a world above the sea and longs to take on that great adventure with unforeseen consequences. Under the Sea, Kiss the Girl, and Part of Your World are just a few of the unforgettable songs composed by Alan Menken from Disney’s The Little Mermaid, a heartwarming story for the entire family.

Directed by Zoe Bradford and Jordie Saucerman, choreography by Sally Forrest, and musical direction by Steve Bass, all roles are open for casting and will take place at the Company Theatre Center for the Arts, 30 Accord Park Drive in Norwell, Massachusetts. Audition candidates should be strong singers and be prepared to sing a song from the show in the show’s key or a song in a similar musical style. A headshot or snapshot and a resume is preferred at the audition, but not required. Audition candidates may bring their own sheet music, but the music score will be available with accompaniment. Please dress appropriately to learn and practice a dance combination.

If unable to attend auditions and are located out of state, the Company Theatre is also accepting video submissions at sally@companytheatre.com. All submissions must be sent by Tuesday, May 2.

Performances for Disney’s The Little Mermaid will be held from Friday, July 28 through Sunday, July 30 and continuing Wednesdays through Sundays through Sunday, August 20. Click here for tickets and for further information about the auditions, email sally@companytheatre.com, or call 1-781-871-2787. Family and Friends Friday offers limited amount of discounted tickets for four or more. Click here for more information about the Company Theatre’s fabulous 2017 season and follow them on Facebook.

Lexus Broadway in Boston boasts sizzling season including ‘Hamilton,’ ‘Waitress,’ Disney’s ‘Aladdin,’ and more

Posted on April 18, 2017 by The Sleepless Critic

Rodgers and Hammerstein’s ‘The King and I’ continues through April 23. Jose Llana as The King of Siam & Laura Michelle Kelly as Anna Leonowens Photo courtesy of Matthew Murphy

‘Wicked’ returns June 7 through July 23. Photo courtesy of Joan Marcus

‘Finding Neverland’ debuts at Boston Opera House August 8 through 20. Photo courtesy of Broadway in Boston

The magic of Disney’s ‘Aladdin’ debuts July 3 through August 18, 2018. Photo courtesy of Broadway in Boston

Tony award-winning ‘Fun Home’ debuts October 17 and continues through October 29. Photo courtesy of Broadway in Boston

The highly-anticipated ‘Hamilton’ debuts September 18 and continues through November 18. Photo courtesy of Broadway in Boston

Phantom of the Opera’s sequel, ‘Love Never Dies’ debuts January 30 and continues through February 11, 2018. Photo courtesy of Broadway in Boston

‘On Your Feet’ debuts April 17 and continues through April 29. Photo courtesy of Broadway in Boston

Andrew Lloyd Webber’s ‘Phantom of the Opera’ returns September 13 through October 1. Photo courtesy of Broadway in Boston

‘Waitress’ debuts February 20 and continues through March 4, 2018. Photo courtesy of Broadway in Boston

As the beloved Rodgers and Hammerstein’s classic musical The King and I hits the Boston Opera House stage, Lexus Broadway in Boston recently offered a peek into its upcoming 2017-18 season. From Andrew Lloyd Webber’s masterpiece and its stirring sequel to arguably the most sought after show in the world right now, Lexus Broadway in Boston has a phenomenal season ahead full of magic, family connections, unstoppable dance, and topping it off a serving of delicious pie. All productions take place at the Boston Opera House in Boston, Massachusetts. Subscriptions for the upcoming season are available now. Click here for tickets and more information.

The magic begins this summer with the return to Oz and Neverland. Get an inside look of how Glinda and the Wicked Witch of the West became two of the most iconic characters in literary history. Visually-stunning with a rich, inventive story line that integrates some of Oz’s most memorable characters, see the spectacular musical, Wicked from June 7 through July 23. Behold the extraordinary story behind J.M. Barrie’s Peter Pan and the family that inspired that magical vision. Integrating Peter Pan’s beloved characters in a unique way, seek Finding Neverland for a limited time from August 7 through 20.

A promising talent, a veteran singer, a ghost dwelling in an opera house, and two bewildered businessmen are part of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s haunting and phenomenally-successful musical, Phantom of the Opera, returns from September 13 through October 1. Also arriving in Boston is Andrew Lloyd’s Webber’s Love Never Dies, the highly-anticipated sequel to Phantom of the Opera from January 30 through February 11.

A number of productions are making their debut in Boston. Topping off the list is arguably the most sought after tickets in the world right now. Hamilton is a contemporary retelling of America’s history arriving at the Boston Opera House September 18 through November 18, 2018.

Take a look inside Fun Home, 2015’s Tony award-winning Best Picture musical. Fun Home is an auto-biographical tale about the joy and challenges of growing up. Not recommended for children under 13, Fun Home debuts in Boston from October 17 through October 29.

Also making its Boston debut is On Your Feet! The Story of Emilio and Gloria Estefan, a meaningful and uplifting musical about the extraordinary life of Emilio and Gloria Estefan. On Your Feet is filled with lively music which includes an array of hits songs from the title track, Get On Your Feet to Coming Out of the Dark. On Your Feet! debuts on April 17, 2018 to Sunday, April 29, 2018.

Waitress is saving the best for last. Currently on Broadway starring Grammy award-winning singer-songwriter Sara Bareilles who also wrote Waitress’s music and lyrics, Waitress is a romantic comedy musical about a waitress gifted at baking pies. She is unhappy in her small town existence until a surprise helps her to put her life into perspective. Waitress serves up its own delights from February 20 through March 4.

All musicals take place at the Boston Opera House, 539 Washington Street in Boston, Massachusetts. Click here for the full list and for tickets. Follow Lexus Broadway in Boston on Facebook and Twitter.

Hingham Civic Music Theatre presents Rodgers and Hammerstein’s ‘Oklahoma!’ on beloved musical’s 75th anniversary

Posted on April 14, 2017 by The Sleepless Critic

Hingham Civic Music Theatre, a theatre group whose most recent productions included The Wizard of Oz, Young Frankenstein, Once Upon a Mattress, and their most ambitious musical to date, Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, is going country. This spring, Hingham Civic Music Theatre presents the Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Pulitzer Prize-winning musical, Oklahoma! in recognition of the show’s 75^th anniversary. Click here for a sneak peek.

Frank Mellen as Ike Skidmore, Roy J. Harris as Andrew Carnes, and Erin Thomas as Ellen in ‘Oklahoma!’

A sweeping musical with suspense, comedy, romance, and some of Broadway’s most memorable numbers, Hingham Civic Music Theatre proudly presents Oklahoma! for two weekends only from Saturday, April 22 through Sunday, April 30 at the Sanborn Auditorium in Hingham, Massachusetts. Click here for more information and for tickets.

Photo courtesy of Hingham Civic Music Theatre

Directed by Nathan Fogg and musically directed by Sandee Brayton with choreography by Tara Morrison, Oklahoma! is based on Green Grow the Lilacs, a 1931 play by Lynn Riggs. Set in the Oklahoma territory at the turn of the century, settlers explore the beauty and dangers of life on the range where some may be facing their biggest challenge yet: love. Oklahoma! includes an exciting array of popular musical numbers including People Will Say We’re In Love, Oh, What a Beautiful Morning, I Cain’t Say No, and the title track, Oklahoma.

Cowboy from ‘Oklahoma!’ Photo courtesy of Hingham Civic Music Theatre

Help support Hingham Civic Music Theatre as they raise money to upgrade their sound and lighting equipment for this production, their fall musical, Shrek, and for the quality of future shows. Click here to be a part of this fundraising campaign.

For tickets and further details, click here or email hcmttickets@gmail.com. Group and discount tickets are available. All performances will be held at the Sanborn Auditorium, 210 Central Street in Hingham, Massachusetts and follow Hingham Civic Music Theatre on Facebook for upcoming events and more.

Company Theatre proudly presents the uplifting musical comedy, ‘Sister Act the Musical’

Posted on March 14, 2017 by The Sleepless Critic

With an incredible lineup of catchy, uplifting songs by Academy award-winning composer Alan Menken, Company Theatre proudly presents the hilarious musical comedy, Sister Act the Musical from Friday, March 17 through Sunday, April 9 at the Company Theatre in Norwell, Massachusetts. Based on the 1992 smash hit film starring Whoopi Goldberg, Sister Act the Musical is a humorous, inspiring story about loyalty, friendship, and discovering what is really important. Click here for more information and for tickets.

Set in Philadelphia, lounge singer Deloris Van Cartier finds herself in a terrible predicament and needs protection. She finds it in a convent with a group of dutiful nuns led by rigid Mother Superior, but she has never felt more out of place until the power of music steps in. Featuring a cast that will bring audiences joyfully to their feet, see Sister Act the Musical from Friday, March 17 through Sunday, March 19 then Wednesdays through Sundays through April 9.

‘Sister Act the Musical’ cast Photo courtesy of Michelle McGrath/Company Theatre

Sister Act the Musical is part of Company Theatre’s stellar 2017 season which includes Disney’s The Little Mermaid with an adult cast this summer. Auditions will be held on May 3. Click here for audition details.

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Company Theatre presents Disney’s ‘The Little Mermaid’ this summer. Courtesy of the Company Theatre

Other highlights of the season include the psychological thriller, Lizzie Borden in October and the holiday family musical comedy, Company for the Holidays in December. All performances take place at the Company Theatre, 30 Accord Park Drive in Norwell, Massachusetts. Get discount tickets on Family & Friends Fridays. Click here, call the box office at 781-871-2787 for tickets or email sally@companytheatre.com for more information. Follow the Company Theatre on Facebook.