Tyler Hanes News

Bursting with energy and pulsating with a heartwarming story of forgiveness and family, Maine State Music Theatre’s new production of FOOTLOOSE serves up both a genuinely poignant tale and a dance extravaganza.  The new production, directed by E. Faye Butler and choreographed by Tyler Hanes, the first revival since 2014 of the 2008 musical by Tom Snow, Dean Pitchford, and Walter Bobbei, offers a new deeper, more probing and more compelling take on this timeless story of teen rebellion, generational conflict, and a journey to forgiveness.

“For Ren dance is his language.  It’s a form of self-expression – the only way he knows how to express himself and communicate.  When this is taken from him, he doesn’t understand why something so beautiful and alive as dance is not allowed.  He is fighting for self-expression and his very identity.” Actor, dancer, choreographer Tyler Hanes is describing the motivation of FOOTLOOSE’s protagonist Ren McCormack. Hanes, who has a storied resume that includes ten Broadway shows and countless regional credits, has returned to Maine State Music Theatre (which he calls “coming home”) to choreograph their new production of the 1998 musical, FOOTLOOSE, collaborating with director E. Faye Butler. 

When Footloose dances onto the stage at Maine State Music Theatre this summer, it brings more than high kicks, power ballads, and iconic '80s fashion. Under the direction of E. Faye Butler, the production taps into the heart of what makes the story resonate: community, resilience, and the courage to challenge the status quo.

This is the premise of the current production at the Marriott Lincolnshire Theatre. Chicago native Sandy Ruskin’s Always Something There…, a Peggy Got Sue Got Married/Back to the Future, etc. styled tribute to the 1980’s, is having its world premiere at the Marriott. It is about being able to go back, reliving your life and changing those horrible choices you made in your teen years.

The World Premiere musical! Always Something There…, by Sandy Rustin (The Cottage, Clue, Mystic Pizza) is currently in rehearsals at Marriott Theatre. Check out video from inside the rehearsal room.

For a dose of summer fun, theatergoers are invited to grab their Walkman, cue up their favorite 80s mix tape, and head to Marriott Theatre as it continues its unforgettable 50th anniversary season with the world premiere of Always Something There…

Andrew Lloyd Webber's rock opera, Jesus Christ Superstar opened at the Fulton recently, just in time for the Lenten season.  Aaron Lavigne stars as a relatively subdued Jesus.  I would have liked to have seen more emotional range displayed in scenes like the cleansing of the temple and in numbers like the emotional gut punch of 'Gethsemane'.

Leading the cast of Jesus Christ Superstar as Judas and Jesus are David Toole and Matías De La Flor. Kristina Leopold (Broadway: SIX) and Mamie Parris (Broadway: Cats, School of Rock) join as Mary Magdalene and Pontius Pilate. Watch a video!

The Fulton Theatre has announced its production of Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice's electrifying rock opera Jesus Christ Superstar, which will run beginning next month.

Marriott Theatre, Chicagoland’s longest running musical theatre, has revealed its 50th anniversary season. See full programming and learn how to purchase tickets.

Marriott Theatre  invites theatergoers to its 50th anniversary season; featuring a world premiere, the most requested return of a family classic, and three more titles brand-new to Marriott Theatre audiences.

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory is a scrumdiddlyumptious summer treat on the Fulton stage. The production retains everything you love about the original movie (Pure Imagination, eye-popping sets, bratty kids, etc.) and eliminates or updates the parts that weren’t so great (mediocre special effects and the always fast-forwardable Cheer Up, Charlie).

The Fulton Theatre brings the world of CHARLIE AND THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY to life on stage.

Fulton Theatre will present a concert of The Secret Garden on May 23rd, 2024 at 6:30pm. Learn how to purchase tickets.

Over the weekend, Manhattan Concert Productions presented Children of Eden at David Geffen Hall and BroadwayWorld was there for the big night. Check out photos here!

Manhattan Concert Productions is getting ready to present the 9th installment of its beloved Broadway Series with the critically acclaimed musical Children of Eden. The company just met the press and BroadwayWorld was there for the big day. Check out photos below!

Kanyok Arts Initiative celebrates its 6th Anniversary Gala with 'The Future is Now' event on April 7, featuring performances, cocktails, and fundraising for the future of NYC's arts scene.

It's the final week left to vote for the 2023 BroadwayWorld Maine Awards! Voting ends on 12/31 at midnight. Don't miss out on making sure that your favorite theatres, stars, and shows get the recognition they deserve!

It's the final week left to vote for the 2023 BroadwayWorld Boston Awards! Voting ends on 12/31 at midnight. Don't miss out on making sure that your favorite theatres, stars, and shows get the recognition they deserve!

It's the final week left to vote for the 2023 BroadwayWorld Central Pennsylvania Awards! Voting ends on 12/31 at midnight. Don't miss out on making sure that your favorite theatres, stars, and shows get the recognition they deserve!