PENNSYLVANIA THEATRE NEWSROOM - Page 575

Frank Wildhorn is no stranger to the music world and neither are his tunes.

The last time Dolly came to Philly was in 1995, when Carol Channing was 74 years old.

Morgan's Cabaret at The Prince Music Theater in Philly is the little black box that treats you to some of the best talent in town and a few nice surprises including some of the finest light fare and wine.

What do YOU think about when the curtain goes up on a brand new musical? Of course, the actors and directors get the lion's share of the praise, but we're about to get some first-hand insight as to what goes on with a musical - from the months of advance preparation through each nightly performance.

Since everybody loves a party, why not have a pair? And that's just what came to town in spring of 2000.

There were some wonderful offerings on the stages of Philadelphia and South Jersey last year and this year is proving to be another exciting year for some of Broadway's favorites.

On the heels of its New York closing in May 2003, comes the remaining American tour and it is proving to be a solid representative of the original production for the most part.

Matt is a handsome baritone and has appeared on Broadway as Radames in Aida, as Chris in Miss Saigon and as the 'white guy' in Smokey Joe's Café.

Young Miss Foster looks 17 and sings like she's been part of musical theater well beyond her years.

Dee is currently starring as Donna Sheridan in the Broadway production of Mamma Mia!

We are treated to Broadway's Tony-award winning starlet, Sutton Foster, joined by veteran performers William Michals, Dee Hoty, Matt Bogart and Donna McKechnie.

As with any big hit show on Broadway, before long the touring companies are sure to follow, which is a good thing.

While many may buy into this cutesy, community quality production, Cameron Mackintosh may need to go back to the drawing board or at least back to the Dickens novel to retrieve and revive this classic treasure.

It's been an interesting mix of theater in a city just 90 min.

It also bangs, thumps, clicks, pounds, swishes, thuds and bounces! A unique combination of percussion, movement and visual comedy that entertains without one spoken word.

Stephanie J.

There was a familiar excitement at the Merriam in Philly.

She's currently in the touring company of one of the most bazaar musical comedy shows to hit the stage in years, Urinetown.

'Yes, but who's gonna come to a show a called ' Urinetown?' says Little Sally to Officer Lockstock, two of the principals in this off the wall musical comedy.

Pati reviews 'ANNIE' at the Walnut Street Theater.

For the first time onstage three Broadway performers who have shared the same role of the Phantom in Andrew Lloyd Webber's Phantom of the Opera, joined forces for an evening of song and music.

Broadway is a BIG place! There's a lot to see & do and learn.