Les Miserables | The Sleepless Critic

REVIEW: Company Theatre delivers an inspiring and ever enchanting Rodgers and Hammerstein’s family-friendly musical, ‘Cinderella’

Posted on December 10 by The Sleepless Critic

The Company Theatre proves that magic does not just come from a wand in Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella.

Boasting more magic than other popular adaptations, Cinderella brings to light the virtues of being humble, loyal, generous, and yearning to make a difference in the world. What is wonderful about this adaptation is Rodgers and Hammerstein invites the audience to root for the Prince as much as Cinderella herself.

Resourcefully co-directed by Zoe Bradford and Sally Ashton Forrest with lively musical direction by Steve Bass, The Company Theatre continues Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella live and in person at the Company Theatre in Norwell, Massachusetts through December 17. Based on the book by Oscar Hammerstein II and a new book by Douglas Carter Beane, this family-friendly musical is approximately two hours with one intermission and appealing for all ages. Click here for more information and for tickets.

Cinderella’s Glass Slipper Image by Zoe Bradford

The Company Theatre always has a way to make the holidays a bit brighter with their December show. Whether bathed in starlight or snow, Ryan Barrow’s moving set fluctuates from a modest village landscape including towering forest, rustic well and a vine crept stone wall to glimmering and fanciful surroundings featuring a large golden clock, a sophisticated marble staircase, pristine white florals, crystal chandeliers, and a gold embroidered living room. Dean Palmer Jr’s warm lighting and Ellie De Lucia’s radiant costume design eloquently depicts the musical’s mid to late 1800s setting through illuminating candlesticks and lanterns, opulent gowns, and gold embroidered suits and vests.

Melissa Paz as Ella in Company Theatre’s ‘Cinderella’ Photo by Zoe Bradford

Rodgers and Hammerstein create a robust fairy tale with Cinderella that features characters fleshed out much more soundly than other adaptations. The only adaptation that may come close is the imaginative 1998 film based on the Charles Perrault fairytale, Ever After: A Cinderella Story starring Drew Barrymore.

Cinderella features an exuberant cast in this smart and warmhearted fairytale. Prince Topher, portrayed with shrewd charisma by Sean Donnelly, is valiant, humble, good humored, and protective, proving his virtue in every aspect of his performance. What is wonderful about these characters is it is not just understood who they are. They are not stereotypes, but consistently showing their mettle by growing and transforming in significant and unpredictable ways.

Emily Lyons as Charlotte, Melissa Carubia as Gabrielle, and Melissa Paz as Ella in Company Theatre’s ‘Cinderella’ Photo by Zoe Bradford

Could an ugly stepsister have her own love interest? In this story, anything is possible. Rather than a rehash or a contemporary twist, this twist is rather timeless. It has much more to offer than the often simplistic style of Cinderella’s tale.

Cinderella focuses on a humble young girl who is a servant to her wicked stepmother and ugly stepsisters. However, when the kingdom announces a masked ball for Prince Topher to find a wife in order to become king, every maiden in the kingdom is clamoring for an invitation.

Donnelly’s Prince Topher is handsome, generous, and a practical dreamer that protects his kingdom from any threat that comes its way. However, he also questions his place in the world, knowing he has much more to offer than his lot in life as King as expressed insightfully in the upbeat Me, Who I Am in a compelling duet with Melissa Paz as Cinderella. Both also shine for the lyrically rich number Ten Minutes Ago. Donnelly depicts Topher with dignity and sincerity, making it easy to root for such a character on his own virtues. He shares some complex scenes with Christopher Hagberg as Sebastian who spends his time raising the Prince and overseeing the kingdom. Status conscience and mysterious, Sebastian provides a unique vision of the Prince’s future.

Wearing a kerchief and simple blue skirt, Ella, who is nicknamed Cinderella, is witty, selfless and compassionate. A bright and soaring soprano, Paz as Cinderella works without complaining and tolerating every cruelty she encounters without repayment. She is also obedient under the most ridiculous of demands. She befriends adorable and comical puppet woodland creatures who bop to the music, sing along, and every once in awhile, scene steal in their own right.

Emily Lyons as Charlotte, Vickie Gerard-Culligan as Madame, and Melissa Carubia as Gabrielle in Company Theatre’s ‘Cinderella’ Photo by Zoe Bradford

Cinderella’s ugly stepsisters are not a pair of braying bookends, as some adaptations suggest. They are individuals with their own goals in mind. Melissa Carubia portrays awkward, bashful yet clever Gabrielle and Emily Lyons depicts narcissistic and brutally frank Charlotte. Both have excellent comic timing. Lyons shines in an array of humorous quips for the animated Stepsister’s Lament. Obsessed with status and wealth, Vickie Gerard-Culligan as status hungry Madame is often flagrant and nonchalantly cruel as she wraps herself in her own little world. Gerard-Culligan reveals a fascinating side to Madame briefly in a delightful rendition of Lovely Night with Gabrielle, Charlotte, and Cinderella, but is always focused on exactly what she wants.

Vickie Gerard-Culligan as Madame and Melissa Paz as Ella in Company Theatre’s ‘Cinderella’ Photo by Zoe Bradford

Ryan Rappaport delivers a zealous performance as purposeful revolutionist Jean-Michel, but could not help but think of him at times as a character missing from Les Miserables. He is determined to change the world and every change starts at home. With playful and powerful vocals, Joey Thordarson is a riot as distinguished town crier Lord Pinkelton, gleeful in his important work.

Always amazing Dru Daniels as Marie is much more than she seems, delivering inspiring showstopper There’s Music in You and the catchy signature tune, It’s Possible.

Dru Daniels and Melissa Paz in Company Theatre’s ‘Cinderella’ Photo by Zoe Bradford

Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella offers timeless and rich commentary on this classic tale with a beautiful and important message about believing in the impossible. Even adults may shed a happy tear or two.

REVIEW: Vocals soar as Academy of the Company Theatre presents Andrew Lloyd Webber’s ‘Phantom of the Opera’

Posted on February 16, 2023 by The Sleepless Critic

It may seem like a small detail, but The Phantom of the Opera’s iconic chandelier plays a pivotal role in Andrew Lloyd Webber’s The Phantom of the Opera. It opens the show in its sheer majesty and the Phantom is actually found hiding in the glittering and monstrous powerhouse of a special effect at one point during the Broadway production. In fact, it is what fascinates the audience at the beginning of the musical in glorious rhythm with the thunderous and foreboding sound of a pipe organ blaring in the distance and what later crashes to makes the cast run in terror.

Directed insightfully by Sally Ashton Forrest with powerful music directed by Melissa Carubia, Academy of the Company Theatre’s Phantom of the Opera gets so many things right from Vickie Gerard-Culligan’s ornate costumes, the pitch perfect casting, its sinister lighting by Dean Palmer Jr., and its smaller scale replications of Phantom’s famous sets by Ryan Barrow, but the production’s chandelier may not quite meet some lofty expectations.

Academy of the Company Theatre (A.C.T.) presents Andrew Lloyd Webber’s The Phantom of the Opera live and in person at The Company Theatre, 130 Accord Park Drive in Norwell, Massachusetts through February 19. The musical is sold out. Click here for more information on the Company Theatre and its upcoming events.

Alexa Cohen as Madame Giry (right) with cast in ACT’s ‘Phantom of the Opera’ Photo courtesy of Zoe Bradford/Company Theatre

Set in the 1700’s, Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Phantom of the Opera focuses on a mysterious presence that haunts the famous Palais Garnier Opera House in Paris, France. New opera house co-owners Ben Cavallo-Smith as Monsieur Richard Firmin and Weston Hammond as Monsieur Giles Andre make a distinguished and at times humorous pair in vintage suits with tails as they start to realize things are not what they seem.

‘Masquerade’ ACT’s ‘Phantom of the Opera’ Photo courtesy of Zoe Bradford/Company Theatre

Phantom of the Opera boasts some enduring yet challenging music numbers and the cast may feature students up to 18 years of age, but their vocals are well beyond their years. Jillian Pongonis as Christine and Catrina Riker as Carlotta hit some extraordinary notes for being so young and it was a joy to hear Riker’s Think of Me and Prima Donna as she prances around the stage in signature diva fashion, bold and comical as she shouts her demands. Carlotta’s sophisticated gowns become more extravagant as the musical progresses and the cast hits its outrageous stylish stride for Masquerade. Salvator Guillermo Garcia, whose past performances with ACT include Jean Val Jean in Les Miserables, has a supporting and memorable role as Ubaldo Piangi. Garcia not only does a wonderful job vocally in Hannibal and Notes with the cast, but his occasional tenuous smirks and smiles enhance the musical’s humorous moments.

Gilbert Dabady as The Phantom and Jillian Pongonis as Christine Daae Photo courtesy of Zoe Bradford/Company Theatre

Pongonis may be slight in stature, but her powerful vocals exceed her years as does Gilbert Dabady as The Phantom. Dabady and Pongonis’s duet of The Point of No Return may seem a bit mature for their ages, but Angel of Music and Music of the Night are beautifully performed and Pongonis’s stirring rendition of Wishing You Were Somehow Here Again is a must see. Dabady is mysterious and threatening as the Phantom, his deep and resounding vocals all the more menacing offstage. Dabady and Pongonis are a complex and charismatic pair while Charlie Flaherty is well suited for the daring and charming Raoul. Amid a pale blue rooftop, Christine and Raoul perform a sweet rendition of All I Ask of You.

Charlie Flaherty as Raoul and Jillian Pongonis as Christine Daae in ACT’s ‘Phantom of the Opera’ Photo courtesy of Zoe Bradford/Company Theatre

Clever blocking and reigned in sets aptly accommodate the Company Theatre stage. Tints of haunting purple, vintage marble columns, nostalgic lighting, eerie skulls, an angelic stone statue, onstage gold lined opera box seats, a brass organ, monkey music box, and a candelabra lit lair on a misty lake help recreate iconic scenes and special effects that bring this somewhat opera within an opera to life. As a big Phantom of the Opera fan, Academy of the Company Theatre’s Phantom of the Opera captures this moving and mystical musical best known for Andrew Lloyd Webber’s classic soundtrack and makes the magic of the longest running show on Broadway last a little longer in Norwell.

Academy of the Company Theatre (A.C.T) presents Andrew Lloyd Webber’s The Phantom of the Opera live and in person at the Company Theatre, 130 Accord Park Drive in Norwell, Massachusetts through February 19. The musical is sold out. Click here for more information on the Company Theatre and its upcoming events.

REVIEW: Go see Academy of the Company Theatre’s heartwarming, moving, and family-friendly ‘Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat’

Posted on April 29, 2022 by The Sleepless Critic

The one thing more magnificent then Joseph’s dream coat is the tale behind it. An interactive, endearing, and humorous production, Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat has been entertaining audiences for over 50 years with its exuberant story and its versatile and brilliant music by the Academy Award-winning team of Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice. Joseph’s music offers a wide spectrum of music genres for any taste from calypso to rock and roll which accompanies the unique retelling of a sacred tale of treachery and unceasing hope.

Photo courtesy of Zoe Bradford/Company Theatre

A tale so wonderful that it needs three narrators, Academy of the Company Theatre (ACT) presents Andrew Lloyd Webber’s wondrous and family-friendly musical comedy Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat continuing at the Company Theatre in Norwell, MA through Sunday, May 1. The production is almost sold out. Click here for more information, tickets, and for classes that ACT has to offer.

Based on the Book of Genesis and set in the land of Canaan and Egypt, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat explores the incredible journey of Joseph and his brothers as Joseph struggles to discover his destiny. It is very much a collaborative, ensemble piece featuring three engaging narrators portrayed by Gilbert Dabady last seen in ACT’s Les Miserables, Cate Healey, and Elizabeth Nunnery as they share Joseph’s tale not only with the audience, but with the surrounding and energetic young cast gathered onstage. Dabady, Healey, and Nunnery all have powerful and very different voices that complement each other throughout the performance.

Brothers – Corin O’Neill – Abington, Jay Feeney- Hansen, Henry Jacobs – Norwell, Colin SanGiacomo – Norwood, Roland Schulze – Hingham, Matthew Porro – Hanover, Tim Bevens (Joseph) – Hingham, Ben Cavallo Smith-Hingham and cast Photo courtesy of Zoe Bradford/Company Theatre

With a sweet smile and unassuming demeanor, Tim Bevens portrays humble, yet forthright dreamer Joseph with instant likability from his first opening number, a warm and melodious rendition of Any Dream Will Do. Bevens delivers a compelling performance as a naïve outsider, his versatile vocal range effortless for the soothing Any Dream Will Do to stirring Close Every Door, his tone heart rendering and sympathetic.

Wearing a white beard, Jacob Yates takes on the mostly silent role of Jacob, Joseph’s devoted father. Yates makes the most out of this role with an amusing walk and some physical humor. Led by Charlie Flaherty’s standout portrayal as Joseph’s smirking and sneaky brother Reuben, One More Angel in Heaven depicts the united camaraderie not only by Joseph’s eleven brothers, but from the cast, all in on a little secret. Another excellent number that depicts the brothers’ united front is delivered by Ben Cavallo-Smith as Judah and his brothers for Roland Schulz as Benjamin, a catchy, amusing song called Benjamin Calypso.

Combining blue, glitter, and gold into dazzling Egyptian attire, Sal Garcia, who was last seen as Jean Val Jean in ACT’s Les Miserables, makes a grand entrance in suave sunglasses and a bouffant hairstyle as Pharaoh, complete with shimmering gold sneakers. Garcia shows off his comedic talent and charisma in the show stopping number Song of the King, combining the essence and high energy of a certain king not to be revealed here and Jack Black. It is fun to watch Garcia in a role where he can let loose.

Sal Garcia as Pharaoh Photo courtesy of Zoe Bradford/Company Theatre

The transformative lighting by Dean Palmer Jr. ranges from a lone spotlight to doubling for the hot, desert sun to flashing, multicolored spotlights for Go Go Go Joseph to the warm candlelight and modest staging of Close Every Door. Though most of the sets are colorful and fun, there is something special about the translucent, simple staging for Close every Door by candlelight, letting Tim Bevens’s poignant rendition speak for itself without distractions.

Elsa Hancock-Happ – Rockland, Calvin Jacobs – Norwell, Reese Warshaw – Hingham, Izzie Donnelly – Hingham, Nora Joyce – Weymouth, Silvia Thompson – Hingham, Tim Bevens – Joseph – Hingham, Laird Lacoste and cast Photo courtesy of Zoe Bradford/Company Theatre

Among the vibrant and bold costumes by John Crampton and Alison Gordon is the famous coat in yellow and green and ochre… Joseph’s magnificent, flowing, and sparkling coat is a head turner decked out in multi-colored stars on the back. The cast wearing sunglasses, an unusual camel, and cute Egyptian “beetles” among the crowd on a unconventional journey to Egypt are just a few of the subtle, cheerful touches added to this lighthearted production that certainly has its share of stirring and difficult moments, but with far more uplifting and spirited ones, it’s difficult to feel down for long.

Tim Bevens (Joseph) and cast Photo courtesy of Zoe Bradford/Company Theatre

Directed by Zoe Bradford with lively choreography by Sally Ashton Forrest and musically directed by Melissa Carubia, Academy of the Company Theatre (ACT) presents Andrew Lloyd Webber’s wondrous and family-friendly musical comedy Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat continuing at the Company Theatre in Norwell, MA through Sunday, May 1. The production is almost sold out. Click here for more information and for tickets.

REVIEW: Academy of the Company Theatre’s ‘Les Miserables School Edition’ cast Turning, Turning Wise Beyond their Years

Posted on January 29, 2022 by The Sleepless Critic

Having read Victor Hugo’s epic novel Les Miserables, witnessed three film adaptations including a 1998 mediocre version starring Claire Danes as Cosette and Liam Neesen as Jean Valjean (without an Eponine), GBH’s 10th and 25^th anniversary of Les Miserables in Concert as well as Les Miserables live onstage from Broadway to Lexus Broadway in Boston to right here a few years ago at the Company Theatre, the Academy of the Company Theatre’s Les Miserables School Edition features the youngest cast I’ve ever witnessed onstage. Les Miserables is a masterful show and a paramount redemption tale, but it does deal in underlying mature themes such as criminal injustices, swindling, prostitution, and war.

Weston Hammond as Javert and Sal Garcia as Jean Valjean Photo credit to Dean Palmer Jr./Zoe Bradford

Set in 18^th century France, Les Miserables is a brilliant tale about an escaped convict attempting to rebuild his life under the watchful eye of Inspector Javert. Life experience suggests that adults might have a firmer grasp on the show’s complicated and mature themes, but with exceptional Sal Garcia starring as Jean Valjean and a wise beyond their years cast, it is not difficult to imagine.

Skillfully directed and staged by Sally Forrest and musically-directed by Melissa Carubia, Academy of the Company Theatre (ACT) presents Les Miserables School Edition continuing through Sunday, January 30 live and in person at the Company Theatre, 30 Accord Park Drive in Norwell, Massachusetts. This musical is over two hours with one intermission. The School Edition is a bit abbreviated, but only meticulous fans of the full length musical would notice. Click here for more information and tickets.

Will Moon as The Bishop of Digne and Sal Garcia as Jean Valjean Photo credit to Dean Palmer Jr/Company Theatre

With a thick beard and an imposing figure, it is not much of a stretch of the imagination that Sal Garcia could take on the reigns of Jean Valjean. With a vocal range from a whispered lullaby to a powerful belt, Garcia’s vocal gymnastics take off from Soliloquy onward and especially for extraordinary solos, Bring Him Home and Who Am I. At just 16 years old, it is amazing to think his voice will only become more powerful and pliable in the years to come. Garcia as Valjean and Will Moon’s clear and distinct vocals as the Bishop of Digne combine for a moving performance in the musical’s most pivotal and iconic scene. Valjean’s encounters with Weston Hammond as mysterious Inspector Javert work well together to fuel the mounting tension between them. Hammond’s deep baritone and Garcia’s versatile vocals heighten each scene together.

Sal Garcia as Jean Valjean and Brianna Casey as Fantine Photo credit to Dean Palmer Jr./Company Theatre

Brianna Casey may look young, but her deep and rich vocals exude that maturity needed to take on Fantine’s complexities from a struggling mother to a woman haunted by visions of the past exhibited in the anguish of I Dreamed a Dream.

Elsa Hancock-Happ as Young Cosette is pitch perfect and adorable, but her distinct and reactive facial expressions with the Thenardiers are the most fun to watch. Jack Baumrind is a little scene stealer as Garouche, his sweet smile and streetwise antics outsmarting most everyone he encounters.

Elsa Hancock-Happ as Little Cosette Photo credit to Dean Palmer Jr./Company Theatre

Tessa Beshere and Jackson Parker as the manipulative and amusing Thenardiers only seem to get better as the show progresses. With a cackling laugh, scheming Parker as Thenardier excels in the show’s darkest number, Dog Eat Dog with Garcia as Valjean and Dabady as Marius. The Thenardiers’ playful, dynamic chemistry and physical humor is at its best as they become the life of the party for Beggars at the Feast.

Jackson Parker as Thenardier and Tessa Beshere as Madame Thenardier Photo courtesy of Zoe Bradford/Company Theatre

Usually I don’t care for the character of Cosette, but Katherine Dee changes my mind through her angelic, soaring soprano vocals and sweet chemistry with Gilbert Dabady as strong-willed and charming Marius. Dabady exhibits playful chemistry with a lovely Isabelle Assaf as Eponine. The trio creates beautiful harmonies for A Heart Full of Love and the collective cast’s harmonies are exceptional for One Day More.

Gilbert Gabady as Marius and Katherine Zee as Cosette ‘A Heart Full of Love’ Photo courtesy of Zoe Bradford/Company Theatre

Antoine Aoun is also memorable and charismatic as Enjolras, leader of a student revolution. Aoun builds excitement for the future with ABC Café and The People’s Song.

Antoine Aoun as Enjolras with revolutionaries and the barricade Photo credit to Zoe Bradford/Company Theatre

From subtle cobblestone streets to the finely detailed and massive barricade, Ryan’s Barrow’s set design strikes the contrasting tone of the elite and the poverty-stricken parts of France accentuated by Martine Assaf’s aesthetically pleasing costumes faithful to the musical’s vision. Dean Palmer Jr.’s impressive lighting is prominent throughout the production from an atmospheric glow to flickering street lamps to twinkling stars to illuminated lanterns most evident in a gorgeous display for Turning and the unique and stirring staging accentuates the resonating and timely number, Empty Chairs at Empty Tables led by Dabady who pays melancholic and poignant tribute to ghosts of the past.

Academy of the Company Theatre (ACT) presents Les Miserables School Edition continuing through Sunday, January 30 live and in person at the Company Theatre, 30 Accord Park Drive in Norwell, Massachusetts. Click here for more information and tickets.

On the verge of Cohasset Dramatic Club’s 100th season, President Lisa Pratt wrestles with the future of live theatre

Posted on July 23, 2020 by The Sleepless Critic

“It looks like a snapshot in time waiting for life again,” reflects Cohasset Dramatic Club President Lisa Pratt, as we spoke about what the future holds for live theatre and their highly-anticipated production of The Music Man. The show was supposed to take the stage in March on the weekend Covid-19 shut everything down.

Sleepless Critic spoke to Pratt about live theatre, the history of Cohasset Dramatic Club, and how art makes a new start. Cohasset Dramatic Club is hoping to present The Music Man in September 2020 to kick off its 100^th season, but what it will look like still remains to be seen.

Photo courtesy of Cohasset Dramatic Club

Sleepless Critic: I understand you are hoping The Music Man will arrive this fall.

Lisa Pratt: I guess I’m hopeful but realistic. From a parent’s standpoint, I only want to do what’s best and give everyone an outlet for a beautiful and wholesome show. Literally every costume is perfectly intact and every dressing room is waiting for us to come back. It looks like a snapshot in time.

Of course, there’s the financial fallout. We spent all that money to put on a show, but didn’t sell a single ticket. Not that theatre is a money-making venture. We might lose more money producing the show than not, but the art is so important to put back on its feet again that we’ll do whatever we have to do to make it happen.

It’s ironically Cohasset Dramatic Club’s 100^th season this September and we had a bunch of plays in the talking stages. We are scheduled to do Our Town because Our Town author Thornton Wilder portrayed the Stage Manager when it was first being produced in summer stock on our stage which was what Cohasset Town Hall’s Theatre space was before The South Shore Music Circus became their second venue. It was necessary to have more space, so a family named Cook who owned that flat land in Cohasset, donated the land to let the people put up a tent for shows in 1950. The summer stock circuit started in the 40s. It was in and out of the Cohasset Town Hall for 10 years.

Our Town, a relatively simple show to produce, has a fairly large cast. The town election takes place in that space. It works for them and I think it is convenient to have the town officers have their own auditorium attached to them. So, we would bypass a September 1 election and have Our Town before the November 3 election. The final show and the end of our 2021 season would be in March 2021.

Sleepless Critic: I was watching the 1962 film The Music Man a few weeks ago. At one point in the movie, Robert Preston as Harold Hill was told not to go in that house and he replied, “Why? Is it in Quarantine?”

Lisa: Shut the front door! Are you kidding me? That is so funny. We want The Music Man be a live event at this point. It all depends if Covid-19 follows the right path to keep all of us safely sharing space and moving forward. As much as I want it all to happen, I would be devastated if anything came from it and someone got sick. What will it look like?

Sleepless Critic: Theatre has transformed a bit as we’ve been going through what Lin- Manuel Miranda deemed “an intermission.” Some theatres have just stopped and some have turned to other avenues.

Lisa: I feel we have stayed in touch with people who have wanted to study scene work, choreography, dance, and vocal work. In the spring, we created a program called, Live from the Living Room, a free virtual production with option to donate to Cohasset Dramatic Club and people did. We did a special theatrical makeup piece created by Lancôme’s Cara Lee Chamberlain. We have a great friend who is a professional dancer and choreographer for The Tonight Show starring Jimmy Fallon in New York. She also choreographed a large theatrical production of Matilda which took place at the Union Theatre in Minneapolis, one of the biggest regional theatres in the country. She taught a choreography class and we had lots of young families virtually tune in. We did that for about six weeks and then took a break to settle in a bit.

Photo courtesy of Cohasset Dramatic Club

This would have been our 15th consecutive year of offering that summer theater education and performance program for kids ages 8-21. One of the shows we got the rights to produce this summer is Les Miserables with age ranges from 14 to 21 years old. We are excited we are not losing the rights and doing it next year.

‘Les Miserables’ delayed to 2021 Photo courtesy of Cohasset Dramatic Club

Cohasset Dramatic Club has been at the same place for 100 years and thankfully, I haven’t been at the helm of it that long which I think is unique. So many theatres I respect are having a hard time and I am saddened every time a theatre is selling off stuff because they can’t keep it alive anymore or however it works at a professional, regional, or local level. No one goes into this with the amount of time it takes to spend to do any less than the best they can with the resources they have. For that, I am always buoyant when I see theatres at any level doing great things.

Whether we present our work virtually, in person, or on the town green with people sitting further apart from one another, the arts community is committed and alive and it’s so important for so many people to keep it that way.

I’m so proud of this organization that has been through good times and bad whether living on a shoestring budget or having the money to pay for rights for shows before they get to deadline. We’re part of a community that I think we’ll survive. If there is ever a person looking for a rocking chair and we have one, I’ll be the first one to say that you can come get it or I can meet you somewhere. That’s the camaraderie of our combined love of art.

We can do this. Theatre can do it. It has survived through everything.

Click here for more on Cohasset Dramatic Club and its upcoming events.

REVIEW: Multi-talented Hugh Jackman wows at the TD Garden

Posted on July 14, 2019 by The Sleepless Critic

Is multi-talented Hugh Jackman better on film or onstage?

Is it worth seeing him when he comes back to Boston? Is he the Greatest Showman?

One thing is certain – Hugh Jackman is the genuine article.

Some actors who decide to go on tour put on self-indulgent shows of their history in show business and share their general musings about life to promote their next album or film. They might even sing a song or two. However, outside the studio, they can’t really sing or dance. People cheer, even if the show isn’t what they were expecting, but they remember that guy in that film or show who was so great in those roles, and that is enough.

Hugh is one talented guy. He is a Tony, Emmy, and Grammy award-winner as well as a Golden Globe and Academy Award-nominee. He has also been on the other side of acting as host of the Academy and Tony Awards. For his 50th birthday, he wished to go on a world-wide tour.

Hugh Jackman’s ‘The Man. The Music. The Show’ will continue through October 20, 2019. Click here for show dates. He’ll also return to Boston’s TD Garden for one more performance on Tuesday, October 1.

Photo credit to Hugh Jackman The Show

The morning of Hugh’s appearance on Thursday, June 27 at the TD Garden, Hugh Jackman made a surprise appearance serving coffee from a coffee truck in Boston to promote his charity work with ‘The Laughing Man Cafe and Foundation.’ A loyal Bruins fan, he called performing in Boston one of his big dreams.

As superhero Wolverine (in which he demonstrated an onstage pose or two), he showed his dynamic range. Decked out at first in a white tux, he ran the gamut of styles from flashy costumes to more casual attire with no ringleader costume in sight. Though he reminisced about his career with a realistic look at his dogged pursuit to find success as an actor, he seemed like a humble, funny, and approachable guy.

A family friendly show, he kept the crowd moving with a broad range of music. From reaching into an old school vibe with selections such as I’ve Got Rhythm and Mac the Knife to tap dancing to AC/DC to performing a vast selection of musical theatre including lighting up the stage with selections from ‘The Greatest Showman,’ the show had a universal appeal though especially tailored for the theatre buff. He joined Kaley McKnight onstage to perform a stunning, powerful rendition of This is Me and a sweeping ‘Les Miserables‘ medley. He also joined members of the Boston Children’s Chorus for a stirring rendition of You Will Be Found from the hit musical, ‘Dear Evan Hansen.’

Hugh Jackman at TD Garden in Boston, Massachusetts Photo courtesy of Jeanne Denizard

The second half of the show did not outdo the first, but he demonstrated his range further in the second. It actually became a bit trippy during his ode to his Australian idol, Peter Allen in which Hugh won a Tony Award for his portrayal as Peter in ‘The Boy From Oz.’ Peter was not only known for songs such as Don’t Cry Out Loud and Arthur’s Theme, but for his over-the-top stage performances. He also welcomed the audience into his native Australia by recreating the outback, claiming it as one of his most out-of-this-world experiences he has ever had.

So, to answer those questions, I prefer Hugh in his epic films, but he is undeniably a wonderful performer. The very best is a lot to ask, but his dynamic range is truly great and worth watching on tour or when he returns to Boston in October. You will no doubt recognize the sheer talent that he has developed over decades of being a singer, a dancer, theater actor, movie star, and a hero.

REVIEW: Company Theatre’s ‘Paragon Park the Musical’ is one amazing ride

Posted on July 8, 2019 by The Sleepless Critic

The Company Theatre is reprising their original, award-winning production of ‘Paragon Park the Musical‘ to cap off their 40th season from Friday, July 26 through Sunday, August 18 with a VIP reception taking place on Saturday July 27. Winner of the Moss Hart Award in 2012 for Best New England Production, ‘Paragon Park the Musical’ returns with a new cast including Michael Hammond as George A. Dodge and some returning cast members.

A portion of the proceeds from the tickets will be donated to the beloved Paragon Carousel. Performances will take place at the Company Theatre, 30 Accord Park Drive in Norwell, Massachusetts. Tickets are selling fast. Click here for more information and how to get tickets and here about the Paragon Park VIP reception.

Click here for a clip of the original production. Here is what the Sleepless Critic had to say about this production when it first debuted onstage in Summer 2012…

As the dazzling chandelier is to the musical, ‘Phantom of the Opera’ or a certain symbolic revolving stage is to ‘Les Miserables,’ the original, historic carousel used in the Company Theatre’s exciting production of ‘Paragon Park the Musical’ exudes its own brand of theatre magic. It serves as a pulsing centerpiece into creator George A. Dodge’s timeless imagination as well as the depth and delight of what made children and adults embrace that revolutionary park in Hull, Massachusetts for nearly 80 years and beyond.

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‘Paragon Park the Musical’ is an original production by Company Theatre co-founder Zoe Bradford and director Michael Hammond with lyrics and music by composer Adam Brooks. Performances continue through Sunday, August 19, 2012 at 30 Accord Park Drive in Norwell, Massachusetts. This highly-anticipated musical is enjoying a brilliant run, with nearly every show sold out weeks in advance.

What makes this particular production so popular is it depicts the history of a beloved beachside amusement park that closed in 1984 and actually existed in Hull, Massachusetts. Historic Paragon Park encapsulates many happy memories to Massachusetts natives, especially those in the South Shore.

‘Paragon Park the Musical’ tells the story of warm, ambitious, and imaginative whaling mogul George A. Dodge, who was passionately inspired to entertain Massachusetts residents and beyond with a revolutionary beachside amusement park. It also tells a story of forbidden romance and a glimpse into the lives of the real people who resided in that little seaside town in Hull. The Company Theatre’s ‘Paragon Park the Musical’ not only shines a historical lens into a piece of the South Shore’s dynamic history, but the picturesque settings paint a crisp portrait with each scene.

'Paragon Park the Musical' 2012 production

Scott Wahle as George A. Dodge with cast in the 2012 production Photo courtesy of Zoe Bradford/Company Theatre

The cast is very much an ensemble and delves into various social issues, family issues and immigration, giving insight into each character’s devotion to the park, showing what truly made the park endure for nearly 80 years. Boston broadcast veteran Scott Wahle is charming and clever as George A. Dodge, portraying him with a twinkle in his eye. He is full of charisma and authenticity throughout the show and is a delight to watch with children.

It is wonderful to see so many strong female characters such as strong willed Tilly, portrayed with vivacity by Joyce McPhee, discerning Amira, played by Maya Carter, sharp and spirited journalist Floretta Vining, depicted by Victoria Weinstein, and spunky and ambitious Mrs. Rose Stone, played by Juliana Dennis. The practical Mrs. Rose Stone’s strong presence is a fine match for George A. Dodge’s relaxed humor. Rinado, portrayed by Nick Cox, is a combination of rugged good looks and captivating naivety, while John King’s Ogden has a spectacular sneer. Dave Daly is refreshing as lively and cheerful Honeyfitz, who showcases soaring vocals and can play a spirited rendition on a ukulele too!

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Each of Paragon Park’s original 18 numbers are polished and lyrically rich. The musical’s exhilarating songs, One Last Ride and Paragon Park are delivered with spectacular energy and passion. The humorous song, Over the Bridge sets a cheerful tone and depicts a few glorious aspects of being young through the wonder of the park. Joyce McPhee’s Long Lost Love compliments her stunning vocal range and was a crowd favorite. Massachusetts residents will delight in many well-known local references in the show, especially in the welcoming number, Nantasket for a Day. and A Proper Life.

The sets and costumes range from elegant and sophisticated to colorful and humorous. The question, “Did I really wear that?” may also come to mind. The sets are colorful, detailed, and the backdrops are simply stunning.

Through meticulously detailed costumes, ‘Paragon Park the Musical’ brings to life important eras of the park’s history with ease. With 18 original numbers, a powerful 20-piece orchestra, and the enthusiasm of each cast member, the Company Theatre’s ‘Paragon Park the Musical’ is a beautiful creation, a love letter to its creator and the many people who hold dear memories of the park’s heyday.

Company Theatre reprises ‘Paragon Park the Musical’ from Friday, July 26 through Sunday, August 18. Click here for more information and tickets or call the box office at 781-871-2787. Follow Company Theatre on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter for more on their upcoming events.

REVIEW: Kristin Chenoweth thrills Boston with her unshakable optimism, humor, and unstoppable vocals

Posted on May 9, 2017 by The Sleepless Critic

“Boston is my second favorite place in the world,” reveals a glimmering Kristin Chenoweth, “Don’t tell New York.” Wearing a black, glitzy cocktail dress paired with shining silver pumps and a megawatt smile, award-winning singer and film, television, and musical theatre actress Kristin Chenoweth excitedly burst onto the Boston Symphony Hall stage, standing before an equally shimmering microphone as the crowd roared. “I feel like I’m in Oklahoma,” she revealed, sipping from a large Dunkin’ Donuts cup, “It feels right.”

It also felt right for the enthusiastic, packed house as Chenoweth kicked off her one night only, Celebrity Series of Boston debut of An Intimate Evening with Kristin Chenoweth on Sunday, April 30. Symphony Hall was appropriately lit in Chenoweth’s signature color as Greek statues above the balconies gave off a violet and pink hue.

Celebrity Series of Boston at Symphony Hall Photo courtesy of Jeanne Denizard

Greeting the audience with Should I be Sweet by Vincent Millie Youmans from the musical, Take a Chance, a thrilling, flirtatious ode debating the perfect way to present oneself, Chenoweth immediately lured the audience in with her engaging, vivacious, and wonderfully charming personality as well as her rich, unstoppable vocals. From beautiful stories about her parents to her unfailingly optimistic, humorous, and unbridled reflections on her life and career, Chenoweth proved not only a brilliant entertainer, but an incredible joy just to spend time with.

Accompanied by her Worcester-raised Music Director Michael Orland on piano, who is also the vocal coach to the hit show, Little Big Shots, Kristin Chenoweth spoke about a few of her past career highlights in television such as GCB, West Wing, Glee, Pushing Daisies, and Hairspray Live, to new projects such as a recently filmed pilot set in Boston as well as her new role on American Gods that premiered on Starz that same evening. Chenoweth also revealed a few significant roles that horrified her God-fearing parents, having been raised in the Bible belt in Oklahoma. For instance, having heard about Chenoweth’s new role as a witch in Wicked, Jerry and Judy Chenoweth shockingly asked, “Is the show satanic?” She also launched into the scandalous Broadway tune from the hit musical, A Chorus Line called Dance Ten Looks Three, cheekily toning down the lyrics to coincide with her conservative upbringing.

Photo courtesy of Robert Torres/Celebrity Series of Boston

What makes An Intimate Evening with Kristin Chenoweth so powerful is for that evening, Chenoweth’s uplifting view of life helped to make life a bit more bearable, even in its sadder moments. Her recitation of The Obituary of the Pillsbury Doughboy was a particular highlight as a moment of silly humor following a glorious and emotional rendition of the beloved song, Bring Him Home from the musical, Les Miserables as she alluded to the Boston and Oklahoma bombings, a painful reminder of what Boston and her hometown have in common.

Chenoweth warmly shared her early experiences longing to become a ballerina, her surprising friendship with Julie Andrews, and what inspired her latest Grammy-nominated album full of Chenoweth’s favorite songs from the American Songbook, The Art of Elegance. She sang a poignant, timeless selection from the album by Hoagie Carmichael and Johnny Mercer, I Get Along Without You Very Well. She also delivered a few of her signature songs with lively exuberance such as Taylor, The Latte Boy and Popular from the musical, Wicked, her soaring, silvery, classically-trained vocals dancing from pop to operatic, perfectly complementing her witty sense of humor.

Kristin Chenoweth on Symphony Hall stage

Kristin Chenoweth with the Boston Conservatory and the Boston City Singers Photo courtesy of Robert Torres/Celebrity Series of Boston

Chenoweth surprised the audience by bringing out the Boston Conservatory and Boston City Singers to join her onstage to perform as she expressed her love of mentoring students and her love of all faiths. “For those who don’t believe,” Chenoweth added, “this will be over in four minutes.” Accompanied by the two choirs, she launched into the worship song, Upon this Rock. Her performance closed with what Chenoweth refers to as her anthem, I was Here, though her tender, memorable encore, Smile, may have also stayed with the audience long after the show was over.

Click here to see where the award-winning Kristin Chenoweth will be touring next as well as how to get a copy of her latest album, The Art of Elegance. A few performances remain in the Celebrity Series of Boston’s season. Click here for tickets and for a closer look at this season’s shows and here to take a peek at their recently announced 2017-18 season. Follow Celebrity Series of Boston on Facebook and Twitter for updates.