David Black News

There's no doubt that George Gershwin has made a lasting impact on musical theatre. Without him, the world wouldn't have songs like 'I Got Rhythm,' or shows like Porgy and Bess. And of course, the vast and illustrious songbook of Gershwin tunes has inspired many a jukebox musical or revue.

From 'Rhapsody in Blue' to 'Porgy and Bess' to 'An American in Paris' to a treasure trove of great American songs, George Gershwin is widely thought of as one of our nation's greatest composers. Conceived and written by ATP's David Blackburn, 'S Gershwin will take you on a journey through the life and music of this great American icon as seen through the eyes of the people he shared his life with.

From 'Rhapsody in Blue' to 'Porgy and Bess' to 'An American in Paris' to a treasure trove of great American songs, George Gershwin is widely thought of as one of our nation's greatest composers. Conceived and written by ATP's David Blackburn, 'S Gershwin will take you on a journey through the life and music of this great American icon as seen through the eyes of the people he shared his life with.

The winners of the first-ever Central Texas Excellence In Theatre Awards have been announced! Scroll down for the full list, and learn more at Austin Entertainment Weekly.

To borrow from my favorite boozing broad, I'd like to propose a toast: To Austin Theatre Project. With their production of Company, ATP shows once again why they are a new theater company to watch. By tackling Stephen Sondheim's beloved show about the ups and downs of both marriage and bachelorhood, ATP once again showcases their ability to tell a story and entertain.

After months of thought, debate and conversation, the staff and writers of Austin Entertainment Weekly with much assistance from Broadway World Austin's Editor Jeff Davis, have announced a new award system for the Central Texas Theatre Community.

Ebony Repertory Theatre (ERT - Founder/Producer Wren T. Brown) announced today that Phillip Hayes Dean's (Drama Desk-winner for The Sty of the Blind Pig) powerful and moving play PAUL ROBESON has been extended by popular demand for three more performances and will now play through Sunday, April 27, 2014 at 3:00 p.m. The production, directed by Mr. Dean, stars two-time Emmy Award-winner Keith David (Fox's new series Enlisted) with accompaniment by pianist/musical director Byron J. Smith (working with numerous artists including Wynton Marsalis, Barbra Streisand, BeBe Winans). PAUL ROBESON plays at the Nate Holden Performing Arts Center (4718 West Washington Boulevard) in Los Angeles.

Ebony Repertory Theatre announced today that performances for Phillip Hayes Dean's (Drama Desk-winner for The Sty of the Blind Pig) powerful and moving play PAUL ROBESON will resume performances on Friday, March 21, 2014 at 8:00 p.m. Two-time Emmy Award-winner Keith David (Fox's new series Enlisted), who stars in this one-man play, returns to the stage after recovering from a knee injury. PAUL ROBESON, directed by Mr. Dean, also includes accompaniment by pianist/musical director Byron J. Smith (working with numerous artists including Wynton Marsalis, Barbra Streisand, BeBe Winans). The production will continue to play through Sunday, March 30, which was part of the previously announced schedule. Three additional performances are set for Friday, April 18 at 8:00 p.m.; Saturday, April 19 at 8:00 p.m.; and Sunday, April 20 at 7:00 p.m. to make up for the canceled opening weekend performances (Friday, March 14 at 8:00 p.m.; Saturday, March 15 at 8:00 p.m. and Sunday, March 16 at 2:00 p.m.). PAUL ROBESON plays at the Nate Holden Performing Arts Center (4718 West Washington Boulevard) in Los Angeles. Members of the press are invited to review the production beginning on Saturday, March 22 at 2:00 p.m.

Due to an injury to lead actor Keith David, the opening performance of PAUL ROBESON by Phillip Hayes Dean has been postponed. A new performance schedule will be announced shortly.

Ebony Repertory Theatre (ERT - Founder/Producer Wren T. Brown) will present Phillip Hayes Dean's (Drama Desk-winner for The Sty of the Blind Pig) powerful and moving play PAUL ROBESON. Dean will also stage the ERT production, which will mark his Los Angeles directorial debut. Two-time Emmy Award-winner Keith David (Fox's new series Enlisted) will star in this one-man play accompanied by pianist/musical director Byron J. Smith (working with numerous artists including Wynton Marsalis, Barbra Streisand, Bebe Winnans). Performances will run March 12 - 30, 2014 with an official press opening on March 14 at the Nate Holden Performing Arts Center (4718 West Washington Boulevard) in Los Angeles.

Voting is now underway for Austin! We have a record number of votes in already, but if you haven't voted yet, click here to vote! If you have voted already, tell your friends.

Voting is now underway for Austin! We have a record number of votes in already, but if you haven't voted yet, click here to vote! If you have voted already, tell your friends.

With The Austin Holiday Project, Austin Theatre Project closes out their first full season with their first original show. While it might not be as flashy or extravagant as other holiday offerings, its phenomenal cast and intimate, personal vibe make it a show to add to your Christmas list.

SLINGSHOT THEATRE presents the world premiere and national tour of a brand new comic play for the festive season, the story of the greatest birth on earth! The tour runs now through December 24, 2013.

Long Wharf Theatre, in co-production with the McCarter Theatre, presents August Wilson's Fences, directed by Phylicia Rashad. Check out a first look below!

Long Wharf Theatre, in co-production with the McCarter Theatre, presents August Wilson's Fences, directed by Phylicia Rashad.

There are times when audiences would much rather see a carefree, lighthearted show rather than something thought provoking and profound, and that's exactly what National Pastime, a new Broadway-bound musical offers. While the show may need a few rewrites before it gets to the Great White Way, it's already a solid and enjoyable valentine to musicals from days gone by.

The newly elected chair of the Totem Pole Playhouse Board of Directors announced today changes in the composition of the board. Assuming the position of Chairperson is Dana Witt, of Vice Chairperson is Rose Tripi, and of Secretary/Treasurer is Karl Shreiner. Mary Louise Lucas will serve as Recording Secretary. Martha Walker, Esq. and Jake Kauffman CPA, have offered their professional services in an advisory capacity. The board expressed appreciation to William Gindlesperger, Maxine Gindlesperger, Nathan Rotz, and David Black for their contributions to the board during the past year.

Singer and actor, Evelyn LaLonde brings you a delightful evening of songs by celebrated composers like Sondheim, Bernstein, Kander and Ebb, and more tonight, July 21 and the 28th.

Singer and actor, Evelyn LaLonde brings you a delightful evening of songs by celebrated composers like Sondheim, Bernstein, Kander and Ebb, and more on July 21 and 28. Her stellar comedic timing and wit is sure to amuse regarding career, marriage, love and dating. Music director David Blackburn (piano), Chris Stone (guitar), and Andrew Fuhrman (drums) join Evelyn LaLonde in this spectacular event of the summer. Come out and enjoy the show and a cool drink at Austin's stylish new live music venue, Brass House.