NATIONAL PASTIME Captures Top Awards in 2017 Mexican Festival

Saturday night the largest theatrical festival in Mexico, the 2017 MET Jalisco, gave out their awards for excellence The ceremony was held in the historic Degollado Theater, in Guadalajara, Mexico. For the first time in the festival's twenty-one year history, a musical was included - National Pastime, music and lyrics by Al Tapper, book by Tony Sportiello, directed by Mauricio Cedeno. The decision created some controversy as there were those who felt a musical was not substantial enough to compete with the more serious works. Also, while the cast, crew, designers and director were all established Mexican theater artists, the show itself was deeply ensconced in old time Americana. The plot revolves around a failing radio station in 1930's Baker City, Iowa, who create a fictitious baseball team in order to boost ratings. Regardless, the team from Guadalajara created a magical interpretation, which charmed the audiences, critics and judges alike. The show received a standing ovation from those attending the festival and National Pastime took home three top awards - Best Actress (Giselle Restelli), Best Director (Mauricio Cedeno) and Best Production.

On Monday, September 18th, the creators of National Pastime unveil their latest project, The Paparazzi at the Davenport Theatre, 354 West 45th Street at 3pm. Music and lyrics by Al Tapper, book by Tony Sportiello, produced by Algonquin Theater Productions, this reading is free and open to the public. The Paparazzi looks to hit Broadway in 2018.

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