musical comedy | The Sleepless Critic

REVIEW: Actors’ Shakespeare Project and Theater Offensive stage bold classic ‘As You Like it’

Posted on June 25, 2023 by The Sleepless Critic

The name says so much. Directed zealously by Harold Steward, Shakespeare’s As You like It is wide open to interpretation and Actors’ Shakespeare Project and the Theater Offensive take full advantage of Shakespeare’s broad title and sentiment with their production of As You Like It continuing live and in person at Tufts University’s Balch Arena Theatre in Medford, MA through June 25. The show has some mature themes. Click here for more information and tickets which includes pay what you can seats.

Mishka Yarovoy and Fady Demian in Actors’ Shakespeare Project’s As You Like It (2023). Photo by Nile Scott Studios.

As You Like It has a modern spirit in its colorful and unique two story setting by Ben Lieberson of pastel hued Arden complete with textured trees. Greatly considered a musical comedy, Harold Steward navigates its contemporary sound design filled with club and classic love songs as well as rich harmony such as Blow, Blow, thou winter wind sung live in the forest. Even love struck Mishka Yarovoy as Orlando hums a classic Annie Lennox tune and a shimmering chime can be heard between scenes. Steward’s dynamic costumes have a certain edge and whimsy, but the play itself is traditional Shakespeare in its text and Balch’s beautiful and traditional Shakespeare staging in the round is framed in alternating neon pinks, greens and blues by Amanda E. Fallon.

Gabriel Graetz, Bobbie Steinbach, and Lindsay Eagle in Actors’ Shakespeare Project’s As You Like It (2023). Photo by Nile Scott Studios.

As the story goes, As You Like it focuses on family rivalry as well as forbidden love and the lengths in which one must go in the name of it. As one who has depicted Shakespeare’s Henry V onstage, As You Like It features swapped gender roles popular in many of Shakespeare’s productions. Bobbie Steinbach delivers a standout performance as Jaques who declares the classic monologue, ‘All the World’s A Stage’ with depth and contemplation as only a sage storyteller can. Steinbach has charisma, stature and is a bit of a scene stealer expressing all of Jacques’ melancholy and musings. Fady Demian in one of three roles is memorable as old shepherd Corin as he delivers some zingers petering around Arden. Lindsay Eagle delights as the ruthless Charles and the infatuated Phoebe as Nathan Malin’ s poor shepherd Silvius, in hopeless love with Phoebe, gazes on. Malin and Eagle have quite a few awkwardly amusing moments, but Malin’s sheer enthusiasm, goofy charm, and sharp comic timing bring lighthearted cheer to the production, breaking any tense moment.

Nathan Malin and Lindsay Eagle in Actors’ Shakespeare Project’s As You Like It (2023). Photo by Nile Scott Studios.

Mishka Yarovou portrays reserved, shy, and unassuming Orlando who falls for the absolutely glowing Rosalind, portrayed by Genevieve Simon. Simon shares a playful and exuberant chemistry and equally charming is the camaraderie and love between Simon and Regine Vital as Rosalind’s witty and beautiful cousin Celia. They are inseparable and Vitale shines as Celia who spends much of the production a spectator of love. Vitale’s reactions throughout the show are relatable, humorous, and express much of what the audience is thinking.

Regine Vital and Genevieve Simon in Actors’ Shakespeare Project’s As You Like It (2023). Photo by Nile Scott Studios.

Love games, familial love, love notes, love in disguise, love triangles, love lessons, love schemes, fool’s love, silliness, unpredictable matches, ideas on wives versus maids, and many other amusing high jinx dwell in the Forest of Arden lit by a series of multicolored lamps. Much of Shakespeare’s wisdom is entwined about love and life, but personal favorites include that love is to be made up of sighs and tears as well as all adoration, duty, and observance. While Shakespeare explores idealistic and romantic love, it also examines the solid foundation of true love, one full of duty and grace which cannot easily be broken.

Genevieve Simon and Mishka Yarovoy in Actors’ Shakespeare Project’s As You Like It (2023). Photo by Nile Scott Studios.

Actors’ Shakespeare Project and the Theater Offensive take full advantage of Shakespeare’s broad title and sentiment with their production of As You Like It continuing live and in person at Tufts University’s Balch Arena Theatre in Medford, MA through June 25. The show has some mature themes. Click here for more information and tickets which includes pay what you can seats.

REVIEW: By song and by sea, interactive musical comedy ‘Toothy’s Treasure’ makes waves in Boston

Posted on June 6, 2023 by The Sleepless Critic

A pirate’s life is not for everyone, but when it comes to the possibility of treasure, perhaps anyone might be willing to learn.

Widely interactive with its share of comedic pop culture references and more, musical comedy Toothy’s Treasure by Brayden Martino and composed by John-William Gambrell arrived for one weekend only at Boston Center for the Arts live and in person from Wednesday, May 31 through Sunday, June 4. The production was 95 minutes with no intermission and offered pay-what-you-can tickets. Click here for more information.

The Off-Broadway cast of ‘Toothy’s Treasure’ Photo by Brayden Martino

What is great about the day in the life of a pirate is that every day is different and the same can be said for Toothys Treasure. Part sink-or-swim improvisation, musical comedy, and interactive tale, Toothy’s Treasure is never the same production twice. The core plot may remain the same, but Toothy’s Treasure steers in various directions and with the amount of improvisation actually involved, it can be tricky to keep this type of show from starting to veer off course. However, it does keep the cast and the audience on their toes.

He’s a Pirate or otherwise known as the Pirates of the Caribbean Theme song, Under the Sea, and Ruth B’s Lost Boy are just a few of the mood setting preshow tunes piped into the Black Box Theatre to warm up the crowd as cast members humorously mingle. Easter eggs such as a cereal box, skeleton, a cardboard rudder, and multi-purpose wooden boxes hold a purpose or two as the show progresses.

As pirates are often in peril, a crack team of multi-talented actors are on hand to weather the storm, albeit like all pirates, with more than a bit of self preservation. Cait Winston is more than up to the challenge as not only a lively parrot puppeteer, but with a knack for maneuvering other humorous roles along the way. Creator Brayden Martino, in lavender threads, is commanding, foppish, and egotistical as Captain Moldy Bones who leads a crew including Chloe Gardner and Mabel White to replace a certain missing crew member on their voyage to locate Toothy’s buried Treasure. Charlize Vermaak and Dylan Gombos also lend spontaneity and playfulness to various roles.

The Off-Broadway cast of ‘Toothy’s Treasure’ Photo credit to Brayden Martino

The musical aspect holds promise, especially as certain lyrics are cleverly altered to fit ever changing scenarios performed by an onstage musical trio. A few highlights include the catchy opening number Thank you Scurvy which explores the next quest for this dastardly and swashbuckling crew. My Lady the Sea is a charming piece delivered with devoted fervor by Mabel White as Squid Lips and the introspective What Would I Do boasts humorous and well timed sound effects skillfully engineered by Bella Cario, Brayden Martino, and Evelyn Dumeer. Break the Mold by Chloe Gardner, who depicts humble and earnest Wet Shoe, brims with boldness and sincerity.

The show is strange, silly, humorous, and adventurous with a sincere message, but features a bit more improvisation for its own good and might benefit from sticking a bit more to structure. However, Toothy’s Treasure is a funny and entertaining piece of theatre that allows the audience to be part of the story and to decide if it’s indeed a pirate’s life for you.

Toothy’s Treasure by Brayden Martino and composed by John-William Gambrell arrived for one weekend only at Boston Center for the Arts live and in person from Wednesday, May 31 through Sunday, June 4. Toothy’s Treasure has taken the stage off-Broadway and in Boston. Click here for more information and when it will return Off-Broadway in New York.

REVIEW: Plenty of glitz, humor, and charm in SpeakEasy Stage’s ‘The Prom’

Posted on May 24, 2023 by The Sleepless Critic

It’s just so nice to be invited back to a Prom and not be the one in a frilly dress.

Though costume designer Miranda Kau Giurleo does bring all the glitz, glitter and glamour to this satirical blend of inspired true story and over the top musical comedy set in New York as well as in Edgewater, Indiana. SpeakEasy Stage Company’s The Prom delivers plenty of humor ranging from silly to parody to satirical not without its political ribbings with a sincere and underlying message about helping others.

Mary Callanan and Johnny Kuntz. Photo credit to Nile Scott Studios

Featuring stellar and intricate choreography by Taavon Gamble and lightheartedly directed by Paul Daigneault, SpeakEasy Stage Company continues musical comedy The Prom through June 10 live and in person at the Calderwood Pavilion in Boston Massachusetts. The show is two hours and 25 minutes with one 15 minute intermission. Click here for more information and tickets.

The Prom should sound a least a little familiar since its 2020 Netflix film adaptation debut with an abundance of its own star shine including Meryl Streep as Dee Dee and James Corden as Barry. Inspired by a true story, anxious Emma, depicted with self effacing and quiet optimism by Liesie Kelly, invites a date to the Prom with none other than Abriel Coleman as Alyssa, the daughter of the head of the Parent Teacher Association. Once a group of egocentric Broadway celebrities gets wind of this human interest story, they decide to make a difference in this small Indiana town.

Abriel Coleman (left) and Liesie Kelly. Photo credit to Nile Scott Studios

Lit with soft and cheerful pastels by Karen Perlow, The Prom features a flashy and dynamic set design including checkered red carpet doubling for any high school setting. One of the stage highlights is a chameleon-like, glittering backdrop complete with shimmering disco ball and an onstage orchestra hidden behind a sports scoreboard.

From left: Lisa Yuen, Mary Callanan, Johnny Kuntz, and Jared Troilo. Photo credit to Nile Scott Studios

The Prom is helmed by a strong and exuberant cast with exceptional comedic timing. Dynamite duo Barry Glickman and Dee Dee, portrayed with pizzazz by Johnny Kuntz and Mary Callanan, deliver lots of laughs as seemingly shallow thespians, but their real charm is exposed by the people they meet in this fish out of water production. Their wild antics and Callanan’s fantastic belt are on spectacular display for fist pumping and humorous Changing Lives. Adorned with glamorous red hair, Callanan shines in the commanding and infectious solo It’s Not About Me and has lively and fun loving chemistry with Anthony Pires Jr as compassionate and forthright Mr. Hawkins. Pires Jr adds a shy charisma to the role and his scenes with Emma and Dee Dee are touching and memorable especially for the sweet solo, We Look to You.

From left: Amy Barker, Anthony Pires Jr., and Mary Callanan. Photo credit to Nile Scott Studios

Meagan Lewis-Michelson as no nonsense PR rep Sheldon Saperstein and inspirational Lisa Yuen as Angie Dickenson both have their great comedic moments, but Jared Troilo is a bit of a scene stealer hatching outrageous theatrical schemes to unique pronunciations as aspiring actor Trent Oliver. Troilo’s character could have easily become obnoxious as the show progressed, but Troilo’s Trent remained endearing at every turn. Though Troilo is wonderful in every number, perhaps the cheeky Love Thy Neighbor is the most noteworthy fueled by surprising musical accompaniment and gospel influences.

The Prom deals with some serious topics including betrayal, but balances it well with the show’s overall optimistic tone. It is positive throughout, even in the face of Emma’s most difficult challenges. Liesie Kelly’s lovely Just Breathe mixes dry wit with Kelly’s mellifluous vocals and smiling eyes. Emma’s high school classmates are painted as shallow and insensitive and as far as storytelling, it might have been nice to have at least one of them sympathetic to Emma’s plight from the start.

Tori Heinlein (center) and the company. Photo credit to Nile Scott Studios

Boasting amazing choreography that not only is reminiscent of popular musicals Footloose and Hairspray, but The Prom contains a wealth of welcome, inside Broadway references. From a clapping and celebratory champagne dance to the Fosse-inspired choreography of Zazz to the intricate chorography of It’s Time to Dance, Gamble with Paul S. Katz’s music direction creates a complex yet sparkling escape to fun and frivolity if only temporarily from the realities of life.

SpeakEasy Stage Company continues musical comedy The Prom through June 10 live and in person at the Calderwood Pavilion in Boston Massachusetts. Click here for more information and tickets.

REVIEW: Lyric Stage Company delves into musical genius Rachmaninoff’s chaotic mind in mesmerizing ‘Preludes’

Posted on January 19, 2023 by The Sleepless Critic

Ever wondered if legendary musicians would still be who they are if they lacked any vices or instabilities? Would they still achieve that same level of success or become even greater?

Some of the most extraordinary musicians also endured turmoil in their lives whether through external circumstances or within the depths of their very being. Most come to the general consensus that the artist simply wouldn’t have that level of genius without everything that came with it. For Russian composer, pianist, and conductor Sergei Rachmanioff, he endured quite a battle on his journey to greatness and his music continues to live on.

Dan Prior and Aimee Doherty in ‘Preludes’ Photo by Mark S. Howard

Directed profoundly by Courtney O’Connor, Lyric Stage Company presents Dan Malloy’s musical Preludes through Sunday, February 5 live and in person at Lyric Stage Company in Boston, Massachusetts. The production is approximately 2 hours with a 15 min intermission. Click here for more information and tickets.

Preludes references Rachmaninoff’s classic works, but the word itself describes what happens before an important event. It delves head first into Rachmanioff’s massive struggle to create which included fear of failure, Marfan syndrome, and mental instabilities that led to his historical writer’s block. Dan Rodriguez’s music direction combined with Andrew Dunkan Will’s complicated, vivid, and occasionally manic sound design illustrates the turmoil and genius of a musician on the brink of something bigger, but struggling to pull through.

Preludes boasts a fascinating cast including Will McGarrahan taking on multiple roles during the production. Wringing his hands, frustrated, and utterly exhausted, Dan Prior embodies frazzled and despondent ‘Rach,’ his world seized by hesitation and regret delivered cleverly in the opening number Your Day. Rachmaninoff battled life through music, but both can become blaringly stringent. Battling all these limiting factors, Rach freezes. Music Director Dan Rodriguez performs double duty depicting the mood setting musical side of pianist Rachmanioff with earnestness and peaks of humor and charm. Keyboardists Bethany Aiken and Mindy Cimini enhance this complex score that keeps up with the chaos of Rach’s mind and the reality surrounding it.

Prior’s subtle yet searing performance delves into a defeated man reaching for a lifeline through therapist Dahl, depicted skillfully by Aimee Doherty with a contemporary vibe in a Pink Floyd T-shirt, black glasses and edgy depth. Doherty’s inquisitive and unorthodox methods may be the calm in the storm. Kayla Shimizu is relatable as steadfast, optimistic, and maybe in over her head Natalya. Shimizu brings a smooth and natural ease to the number Vocalize as well as a powerful and painfully honest rendition of Natalya as she struggles in her limited understanding of Rach’s condition. Shimizu and Prior bring compelling chemistry and connection in their moving rendition of Not Alone.

Dan Prior, Aimee Doherty, Dan Rodriguez and Anthony Pires Jr in ‘Preludes’ Photo by Mark S. Howard

Enhanced by Karen Perlow’s mind bending lighting, Preludes is at times trippy and often teetering between daydream and reality. Highlighted by amazing and intricate choreography, Anthony Pires Jr as Chaliapin slides into an entrancing and catchy Loop with finesse and charisma while blending elegant vocals between jarring beats. It is a standout number that may ruminate long after the show is over. Taking on multiple roles and delivering inspiring and thought provoking pearls of wisdom is Will McGarrahan who portrays a number of dynamic historical figures. McGarrahan’s commanding voice, distinct characterizations, and dark comedic timing make him a treat to watch each time he appears onstage.

Kayla Shimizu, Anthony Pires Jr, Dan Prior, Will McGarrahan, and Dan Rodriguez in ‘Preludes’ Photo by Mark S. Howard

Scenic Designer Shelley Barish’s insightful circular staging moves fluidly with the performers with a piano set perfectly at center stage accented by lilacs, ordered blocks of vibrant colors, and an ever changing, mood-induced colored backdrop. The scalloped trim and soft lighting from various hung fixtures add an eclectic elegance as does the eye popping vintage couch and ottoman.

In some ways, Rachmaninoff’s struggles also made him distinctive. He had Marfan Syndrome which is a genetic disorder that affects the connective tissue of the body and organs. It is a very difficult way of life, but also gave him unusually long fingers. Much of his work is difficult to play because he could reach the piano keys more easily than the average person. This weakness was also a strength and part of what made him seem destined for greatness.

Lyric Stage Company presents Dan Malloy’s musical Preludes through Sunday, February 5 live and in person at Lyric Stage Company in Boston, Massachusetts. The production is approximately 2 hours with a 15 min intermission. Click here for more information and tickets.

Cohasset Dramatic Club proudly presents the enchanting musical comedy, ‘The Wedding Singer the Musical’

Posted on July 24, 2017 by The Sleepless Critic

In a way, the 80s are back. Popular Netflix series Stranger Things and GLOW represent a hankering for 80s nostalgia, and arguably one of the few hit films that delightfully represent the 80s so well is the comedy, The Wedding Singer, starring Adam Sandler and Drew Barrymore. Boasting Miami Vice flair, neon legwarmers, frills, and hit 80s music galore, The Wedding Singer is a sweet romantic comedy set in 1985 about shy waitress Julia Sullivan and Robbie Hart, a wannabe rock star turned wedding singer. Adapted into a musical in 2006, Cohasset Dramatic Club presents The Wedding Singer the Musical for one weekend only from Thursday, July 27 through Sunday, July 31 at Cohasset Town Hall in Cohasset, Massachusetts. Click here for tickets and more information.

Featuring a cast ages 14-21 and starring Jordan Robie as Robbie Hart and Madison Pratt as Julia Sullivan, The Wedding Singer the Musical is a lighthearted comedy sure to lift the spirit. This enchanting musical comedy features a mix of upbeat and touching original songs including It’s Your Wedding Day, Someday, If I Told You, and I Wanna Grow Old with You.

With a colorful, lively cast that includes a bitter brother, a kindly but sassy old neighbor, a rich, charismatic suitor, and even an appearance by Billy Idol and other 80s icons, Cohasset Dramatic Club proudly presents The Wedding Singer the Musical from Thursday, July 27 through Saturday, July 30 at 7:30 p.m. One Sunday matinee will take place on Sunday, July 31 at 2 p.m.

Performances will be held at Cohasset Town Hall, 41 Highland Ave in Cohasset, Massachusetts. Click here for more information and for tickets. Follow Cohasset Dramatic Club on Facebook for upcoming events and more.

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.

Director Matt Silva and ‘Waist Watchers the Musical’s’ cast talks improvising, exercise, and girl’s night out

Posted on June 10, 2017 by The Sleepless Critic

Since April, Alan Jacobson’s Waist Watchers the Musical, a musical comedy from the production team responsible for You Say Tomato, I Say Shut Up, My Mother’s Italian, My Father’s Jewish, and I’m in Therapy, and Menopause The Musical, has been taking a frank and lighthearted look at four women’s struggle with dieting, body image issues, exercise, and much more. Perfect for a date night or a girl’s night out, this musical comedy continues through Sunday, June 25 at the Regent Theatre in Arlington, Massachusetts. Click here for the full schedule and for tickets.

‘Waist Watchers the Musical’ cast Photo courtesy of Playhouse Productions/Regent Theatre

The atmosphere was full of excitement and laughter as the cast and director of Waist Watchers the Musical, having just performed a weekday matinee, spoke about the unique preparation for this show, working with the choreographer of the acclaimed film, Silver Linings Playbook and Hairspray Live, and keeping the show fresh and more hilarious each and every night. Director Matt Silva and cast members Kiley McDonald, Stephanie Genovese, and Krissy Johnson all agree they are having a blast.

Sleepless Critic: Waist Watchers the Musical tackles a unique and sometimes sensitive subject. How does this show balance comedy with working out?

Kiley: We’ve talked about that a lot and how to approach the material knowing about body image and social media. It really takes a toll on women and how they envision what’s perfect. This show does a really good job of making light of everything and reminding us to laugh, accept, and love who you are. Everyone has flaws and trouble with something. That can’t hold you back and rule the choices you make in life.

‘Waist Watchers the Musical’ cast at Cook’s Gym Photo courtesy of Playhouse Productions/Regent Theatre

SC: Waist Watchers The Musical’s choreographer, Dani Tucci-Juraga, was behind the choreography for the acclaimed film, Silver Linings Playbook and Hairspray Live, which featured some amazing dance moves. Did you find learning the dancing particularly challenging?

Stephanie: Dani is fantastic. She is the sweetest woman I’ve ever met, but she is tough. She knows exactly what she wants and pushes you to become a better dancer, performer, and in this case, athlete. There were times when we were sore and complaining and she told us to deal with it and try harder.

SC: What attracted you to this show and these roles?

Matt: I am the orchestrator for this company who had taken on the show. It was out in Phoenix and I didn’t have anything to do with it. I went to see the show and thought the material was cool, acceptable, and empowering for women. The production itself wasn’t all that successful in terms of the talent, choreography, and the production value. I was really excited to take the message, empowerment, and the women’s process and collaborate with them and make it fun. I thought the production was lot of fun, but I thought the show I saw needed a little injection.

‘Waist Watchers the Musical’ cast Photo courtesy of Playhouse Productions/Regent Theatre

SC: The cast has very unique roles to prepare for. Aside from the dancing, what other preparation was involved?

Kiley: We knew right away that we needed to condition our bodies for the show because it is non-stop, 90 minutes of cardio. We would have to sing and dance without a lot of time to breathe. We also don’t leave the stage very often. It took us a little while to get our bodies moving, figure out where to breathe, and where to sing. A lot mental preparation goes into it.

SC: This show features all new and original music by Vince Di Mura. Do you have any favorites that stand out for you?

Stephanie: I love Lazy.

Kiley: My top favorite is The Morning After.

Chrissy: Eat it.

SC: You have been performing this show since April and the final show will be on Sunday, June 25. How does the show stay fresh each time you perform? I understand the show involves a lot of improvisation.

Stephanie: We try to make new discoveries each night. Every audience is different and they react to different things, so every performance stays different and fresh.

SC: You must encounter your share of surprises improvising and trying new things. Any memorable moments that occurred onstage?

Krissy: At this one performance, we had a new sound system. It was the first time using this wireless microphone. The mic cracked and made a loud noise onstage right before one of my lines. It frightened me so badly, I screamed! From that moment to the end of that scene, I could not stop laughing or get my lines out. It was quite amusing.

SC: You all obviously have really snappy chemistry on and off-stage.

Kiley: We are very fortunate to all get along and appreciate each other’s sense of humor.

SC: What is the best reason to see Waist Watchers The Musical?

Stephanie: It is definitely a girl’s night out and one hundred percent campy. It’s a feel good show with lots of laughs. Good clean fun, but definitely PG-13.

Presented by Playhouse Productions, Waist Watchers the Musical continues at the Regent Theatre until June 25. After the Regent Theatre, the show continues its tour in Huntington Beach and Sacramento, California. Click here for further details and for tickets or call 781-646-4849. Group rates are also available at 888-264-1788.

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.

Company Theatre MermaidAuditions-300x174

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.

‘Steel Magnolias’ and ‘Children of Eden’ part of the exciting premiere season of South Shore Theatre Works

Posted on January 23, 2017 by The Sleepless Critic

From Sondheim’s enchanting fall musical, Into the Woods to the upcoming beloved spring musical, Children of Eden, South Shore Theatre Works (SSTW) in Holbrook, Massachusetts, is having a stellar premiere season. With a group of dedicated volunteers and Board of Directors, Executive Director and President Richard Bento is thrilled about South Shore Theatre Works’ promising future. In a “sink or swim” sort of industry, Benton says South Shore Theatre Works is “Michael Phelps-ing” it. Click here for more information on auditions, how to support and becoming a member of South Shore Theatre Works, and more on upcoming performances.

Jeanne Denizard: Your first musical was Sondheim’s Into the Woods. For a first show, that must have been quite an undertaking. I understand you had a very good turnout though.

Richard Bento: Yes, we had about 64 people from across Massachusetts and Rhode Island that came and auditioned. Into the Woods is a very difficult show acting-wise because it’s about relationships. It’s about relationships between mothers and daughters, husbands and wives, children and their grandparents, brothers, and new found love. It’s a very challenging piece, not just vocally, but we wanted to do a production that shows people we’re really out to play. We want to be on the map as one of the best community theaters in the area, and doing a show like Into the Woods really put us out there. You know, it’s one of those “sink or swim” shows and we didn’t just float. We definitely Michael Phelps-ed it and we swam successfully.

The cast of ‘Into the Woods’ Photo courtesy of Rachel Nope Beasley

JD: To start the New Year, you presented the musical comedy, The Big Bad Musical. Please tell me about that.

RB: The Big Bad Musical is part of our junior production season for young performers under the age of 19. It was a great production. I think it really piggybacked on the production of Into the Woods with some of the characters, like Little Red Riding Hood and the Big Bad Wolf, and brought it to a different world. It had a lighter side that Into the Woods does not necessarily have and brought a sense of humor to the fairy tale stories. It introduced other characters like The Boy Who Cried Wolf and the Three Little Pigs. The Big Bad Musical was an exciting adventure to work with young children and see how they grow. It’s amazing how they step up to the plate. With an adult who is performing in community theatre, you expect to have a certain level of professionalism and respect for the craft, but to see these kids who are young adults doing a show unknown to most people, doing music that people don’t know, and having to do a show that has so much dialogue, and really putting it on themselves, is something great to be a part of. I’m honored to be a part of it.

Rehearsal for the musical comedy, ‘The Big Bad Musical’ Photo courtesy of Rachel Nope Beasley

JD: Please tell me how can someone participate in these educational workshops?

RB: Our Junior Workshop programs are for anyone under the age of 19 who want to participate in a youth production. We not only teach them about the acting side of dramas and musicality of musicals depending on the show, but also what it is like to put on a show and be involved from beginning to end. We are very fortunate for our summer junior workshop. This summer, we’ll be performing Disney’s The Little Mermaid, Jr. Keep a lookout on our website, and join our email list for updates. Auditions would be in the late spring for this August production. It’s open to anyone under the age of 19 who wants to participate, have some fun, learn, and improve their skills.

South Shore Theatre Works dress rehearsal for youth production, ‘The Big Bad Musical’ Photo courtesy of Rachel Nope Beasley

JD: Now, South Shore Theatre Works is producing the lauded play, Steel Magnolias, a classic story featuring a much smaller cast. When does that show kick off?

RB: We had auditions for that show right after Into the Woods in November and we’ve been rehearsing throughout the holiday season. We’re really focusing on it now that it is the New Year. It’s a great, well-known show, not just for the play, but also for the movie. They’re very similar to one another, but also extremely different because the play only takes place at Truvy’s Hair Salon. It really involves the six actresses on stage connecting with the audience on a different level that they would be if it was a different type of show. The show is about emotion, the interaction between friendships, and also the interaction between all different kinds of relationships. I think the motif of South Shore Theatre Works 2016-2017 season has been about relationships.

‘Steel Magnolias’ from Friday, February 17 through Sunday, February 19

JD: South Shore Theatre Works runs fundraising campaigns, most recently with the restaurant, Not Your Average Joes. In what ways can people support South Shore Theatre Works?

RB: We partner up with local restaurants and local businesses throughout the year. We’re very fortunate to have the support of The Chateau in Stoughton, who held a fundraiser for us last year. Uno’s Chicago Bar and Grill helped us out as well. We had our good friends at Five Below on the Stoughton/Brockton line continually help us out with our endeavors by holding numerous fundraisers for us, which is greatly appreciated. Not Your Average Joe’s, the last one we just did in the month of December, was a great way for people to be able to go out to eat like you normally would and support a great cause. We’ll be continuing to do this with other restaurants in the area. Another one is scheduled for February in Holbrook. It is a great way to get some extra revenue in and for people to participate without having to do lot of work while you are putting on a full season.

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South Shore Theatre Works Play Reading Committee led by Richard Bento Photo courtesy of Kelly Webber

We here at SSTW are very ambitious! We technically have been putting on a main stage and junior season, two seasons simultaneously. To be able to do that financially, we need the support of the community. Not just by supporting us on these fundraising events, but helping us with sponsorships and ads. If there’s someone in the community who would like to support the arts and see it continue in their community, check out our website to see how they can assist us, whether it’s a program ad or a sponsorship. Someone once told me it takes a village to raise a child. It’s the same thing with a community theater. It takes the town and the surrounding communities to raise and bring up a successful community theater.

Volunteers are always needed, whether you can sew, help with the box office, hang up or design a flyer or a poster, or with media. Volunteer your talents, whatever that talent may be. You can start off assisting a stage manager or helping on a crew and by the next show, you can get more and more involved. We would greatly appreciate it.

South Shore Theatre Works present the beloved musical, ‘Children of Eden’ Photo courtesy of South Shore Theatre Works

Click here to get involved with South Shore Theatre Works, join their mailing list, and learn about their upcoming productions. South Shore Theatre Works is also on Facebook.

Richard Bento, President of South Shore Theatre Works, talks about building a theatre dream

Posted on January 21, 2017 by The Sleepless Critic

Building a dream has always has its share of surprises and challenges. However, with determination, hard work, and more than a touch of luck, these sought after dreams can become a reality. Sleepless Beyond the Stage explores the reality of making that dream come true, whether by building an organization, finally bringing that dream play or musical to life, or starting an artistic or musical group that has made a difference.

Richard Bento, Executive Director and President of South Shore Theatre Works (SSTW) in Holbrook, Massachusetts, talks about the excitement and surprises of starting a new community theatre, South Shore Theatre Works. South Shore Theatre Works’ premiere season features Into the Woods, Steel Magnolias, and much more. Click here for more information, auditions, and for tickets.

Jeanne Denizard: Please tell me about your background and what inspired you to start South Shore Theatre Works?

Richard Bento: I’ve participated in community and semi-professional theatre throughout Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Georgia, and San Francisco. One of my goals was to have a group of my own who share the same mission and passion I had for the arts. Three years ago, I decided to participate in theatre here and assist another community theatre group. I fell in love with the people. Their passion was parallel to what I felt in my heart. When we were at a crossroads, needing to decide whether we were going to bring this other group to another level or start our own with other people who shared that same drive, I decided to put together South Shore Theatre Works. In this group, we spoke about what we loved about community theatre and what we wanted our theatre home to be like.

South Shore Theatre Works Play Reading Committee led by Richard Bento Photo courtesy of Kelly Webber

JD: Did you run into any surprises pulling a project like this together?

RB: When putting together a non-profit, learning how to comply with the nonprofit laws is ever-changing. We ran into some obstacles such as what we thought was the proper way might not necessarily be the right way on paper and when you’re working with a group of people who are volunteering their time, the challenge is finding exactly where they best fit. Sometimes we all think that we’re good at one thing, but until we really get into the nitty-gritty of things, that’s when we decide, hey, wait a minute, I might not be a good Treasurer. My passion might be as a good publicity person. I think it was not necessarily a struggle or obstacle within the organization, but an obstacle within each one of our board members to find out exactly what they’re truly good at, and how to put those talents and skills into play.

South Shore Theatre Works dress rehearsal for youth production, “Big Bad Musical” Photo courtesy of Rachel Nope Beasley

JD: What would you say to those who are considering starting a community theater?

RB: I wish them a lot of luck and determination. Starting a community theater is a difficult project to take on. It is not an endeavor for everyone or for the weak-hearted. Just like an actor who wants to perform professionally and tries to make it on Broadway, 99% of that actor’s experience will be rejection. When you’re putting together a community theater or theatre group in general, you are going to face a lot of doors closing on you, a lot of people who feel threatened, or don’t understand why you’re creating this new project. What’s important for anyone who wants to create something of this nature is to make sure that the reason behind you creating this endeavor comes from a good place, from a place of love, and a place of passion.

Before people decide they’re going to start another community theater or another theater in the South Shore or in the Boston area, decide why they want to create that theater. What is the mission behind it and see if there are other groups that share that mission because there are always groups looking for help. For example, if there’s someone out there who is looking to start a brand new theatre company that shares the mission we have at South Shore Theatre Works, join us. We’re always looking for new people to support our mission.

JD: What is most important in making an investment like this?

RB: Measuring what is important in an investment can be different for different people. At SSTW, the way to measure whether we have succeeded in our first year’s endeavor is by seeing the membership, those people that we have been able to cultivate and bring together to put on quality theatre in this area. If South Shore Theatre Works ended today, we as a Board of Directors would be extremely proud of what we did because our first major musical was a huge success financially and included a talented cast. We had 64 wonderfully talented people from across the South Shore who came and auditioned across Massachusetts and Rhode Island. We had people from all over audition who wanted to be part of something new. That for me is a measurable moment of success.

“Into the Woods” cast Photo courtesy of Rachel Nope Beasley

JD: How did you select the shows you would be presenting in your premiere season?

RB: When choosing a season, you have to come up with the season’s mission. I’m very fortunate I have a marketing director who works in the industry and understands what is needed to accomplish things. Every show has to have a specific goal or target audience, whether it is trying to reach actors, expand our membership, or to make money, which we all need to survive. We wanted to do some shows that were really going to get our name out there and would bring people to work with us and grow with us as an organization. Not just work with us once, but wanting to come to South Shore Theatre Works to become lifelong members.

JD: What are your future plans for the theater and the best way people can contact South Shore Theatre Works?

RB: Our goal for South Shore Theatre Works is to be the leading community theater in the South Shore. We want to have a home where we can perform all year round, a place where people can feel comfortable, and share their talents and their passion for the craft with audiences from all over.

A way to get involved financially or supporting us is by being an audience member and an active member within the theatre company. Go onto our website, sign up for our emails, keep in touch and find that one project where you really want to help. Support the arts in any way possible. Spread the word that there is a new community theater in the area excited to branch out and get our name out there.

South Shore Theatre Works present the beloved musical, “Children of Eden” Photo courtesy of South Shore Theatre Works

Click here for a closer look on how to support South Shore Theatre Works. Call 774-386-8258, visit their website, and follow them on Facebook for a closer look at their new season and more.