Photo Flash: 'A Supercalifragilistic Evening with Richard M. Sherman' at El Capitan

On Friday, February 26th Disney's historic El Capitan hosted an evening with the iconic composer Richard Sherman.

The first act of the evening was dedicated to one half of the famous Oscar winning duo know as The Sherman Brothers-Richard Sherman. Audience members could be heard openly singing along to songs such as "Chim Chim Chere," "Lets Get Together," "Tall Paul," "Chitty Chitty Bang Bang" and, or course "Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious," as well as "Its a Small World" (After All), that Mr Sherman defined as the number one ear worm song. "People either love us or hate us for that one." On March 11th, The Sherman Brothers will be honored with a Window on the Main Street of Disneyland.

The second act feature selections from a new production entitled "PAZZAZZ!" This production marks the first collaboration that Richard Sherman has done with someone other than his brother, but with Robert Sherman's blessings. For this tribute to the razzle dazzle of Broadways early days, Richard Sherman teamed up with his long time colleague and friend, Milt Larsen. The story, narrated by Broadway legend George M. Cohen (played by Bill Lewis), is based on the true characters of Joe Weber and Lou Fields. Two men who are often credited with defining Broadway as the The Great White Way. Patrons reveled in songs that are destine to become classics such as "Little Old Broadway," "Devious Deeds," "Billiard Billie," "Great White Way" and the show stopping "Another Dear Uncle" performed by Joanne Worley that brought the house to their feet in praise.

Rounding out the casts were performances by notable entertainers such as Dan Saunders, Joey D'Aura, Amy Gillette, Laura Thatcher, Gilmore Rizzo, Bonnie Gordon, John Eddings, Christine Capsuto, Megan Smith and Adam Wylie as the young George M. Cohen. The evening was under the direction of famed director/choreographer Walter Painter.

This engagement marks the first full stage musical production done since its renovation in 1991. The El Capitan began as a live theatre in 1926. It boasted a 120-foot stage, and featured plays on stage with
stars that included Clark Gable, Buster Keaton, Will Rogers, Douglas Fairbanks, Jr., Henry Fonda,
Lon Chaney, Jr., and Jason Robards. It was a "legitimate" theatre until 1942, when it became the
Paramount movie theatre.

Photo Credit: Kari Hendler

 

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