Hats! 2006 - Articles Page 29

Americans love their TV villains. They wore black hats with ominous mustaches in the early westerns, while Alexis Colby wore Nolan Miller gowns on "Dynasty" and "Glee's" coach, Sue Sylvester, dawns a tracksuit to terrify students. However, history's #1 TV Bitch (according to Vanity Fair), weaseled her way into hearts world-wide wearing petticoats and a curly blonde wig - Nellie Oleson of the hit series "Little House on the Prairie."

The 2012 Summer Season kicks off with the fiery fun musical DAS BARBECÜ in the Keating Theatre, June 13 through July 15. DAS BARBECÜ, with book and lyrics by Jim Luigs and music by Scott Warrender, is loosely based on Wagner's epic Ring Cycle opera. Add in some modern day Texas twang, big hair, and big hats, and you've got a lightning-paced musical that's fun for opera buffs and regular joes alike. Get a first look at the cast on stage in the photos below!

Happy Birthday Al Jolson! Between 1911 and 1928, Jolson had nine sell-out Winter Garden shows in a row, more than 80 hit records, and 16 national and international tours. Although he's best remembered today as the star in the first (full length) talking movie, The Jazz Singer in 1927, he later starred in a series of successful musical films throughout the 1930s. After a period of inactivity, his stardom returned with the 1946 Oscar-winning biographical film, The Jolson Story. His Broadway credits include: Hold on to Your Hats, The Wonder Bar, Big Boy, Artists and Models, Bombo, and many more.

Bret Michaels brings the Life Rocks Tour 2012 to Indian Ranch on Sunday, September 23 at 2:00PM. Bret Michaels wears multiple hats as a rock star, reality star, spokesperson, businessman, and philanthropist. He first rose to prominence as the front man of the massively successful 80's rock band Poison, which sold over 30 million records worldwide. The band has charted 10 singles in the Top 40 on Billboard's Hot 100 including the number-one single, 'Every Rose Has Its Thorn.'

Americans love their TV villains. They wore black hats with ominous mustaches in the early westerns, while Alexis Colby wore Nolan Miller gowns on "Dynasty" and "Glee's" coach, Sue Sylvester, dawns a tracksuit to terrify students. However, history's #1 TV Bitch (according to Vanity Fair), weaseled her way into hearts world-wide wearing petticoats and a curly blonde wig - Nellie Oleson of the hit series "Little House on the Prairie."

Delaware Theatre Company will present Crowns, April 11 - 29, 2012. In the show, A young woman who moves down South to live with her aunt is given a lesson in 'hat-titude' in this toe-tapping musical. From feathered hats to flowered hats, pillboxes to turbans, to hats for work and hats for church, there is a hat for every occassion, and a cultural and historical significance to them as well as 'Mother Shaw' and her 'hat queens' share in their stories. This soul-stirring musical demonstrates the handing down of culture from one generation to the next and celebrates the refuge, equality and healing that occurs in this place of spirituality.

The 1972 Bob Fosse dance spectacle and play-within-a-play "Pippin" (which produced a legendary Motown Records cast album, no less) opened in Lakeview this past October, courtesy of the Bohemian Theatre Ensemble. And now we have a "Pippin" for the north lakeshore, as The Music Theatre Company of Highland Park has mounted an enjoyable revival of its own, opening last weekend and running through May 6, 2012.Stephen Schwartz, one of the most popular Broadway composer-lyricists of the last 40 years, is riding high these days, with the continued mega-success of "Wicked," a late-career surprise for a guy who made his first big impact when he was just out of college in the very early 1970s. There's a revival of his "Godspell" playing on Broadway right now, directly adjacent to where "Wicked" is still selling out after 8 years, and two rival revivals of "Pippin" have been vying for Main Stem viability in recent months. Here in Chicago, we had a re-working of "Working" last spring, in a major production at the Broadway Playhouse at Water Tower Place, and a Schwartz career retrospective revue called "Snapshots" premiered at the Northlight Theatre in Skokie last fall. Schwartz himself was in town for both productions, rumored to be in love with our Chicago acting scene. The 1972 Bob Fosse dance spectacle and play-within-a-play "Pippin" (which produced a legendary Motown Records cast album, no less) opened in Lakeview this past October, courtesy of the Bohemian Theatre Ensemble. And now we have a "Pippin" for the north lakeshore, as The Music Theatre Company of Highland Park has mounted an enjoyable revival of its own, opening last weekend and running through May 6, 2012. Directed and choreographed by the company's founder and artistic director, Jessica Redish (how many hats IS that?), and music-directed by her "Merrily We Roll Along" partner, Ian Weinberger (their production of that problematic Stephen Sondheim show was very well received last year), this production utilizes Equity leads and a non-Equity ensemble, to interesting advantage. Many of the dance sequences look great, especially the opening number, "Magic To Do," the "Glory" sequence, the thrilling "Morning Glow" and several opportunities where Fosse trios are utilized (a lead dancer in front, flanked by a supporting dancer on each side). The women of the ensemble (Sasha Kostyrko, Kristin O'Connell, Emily Rogers and Lucy Zukaitis) are especially sexy, and the men (Brian M. Duncan, Tommy Rivera-Vega and Jeremy Sonkin) dance their socks off and carry out their small acting bits with verve. And the leading characters are played by actors with formidable singing chops, made all the more impressive by the fact that the cast is entirely unamplified. Leading Player Joey Stone has an extremely impressive, beautiful and flexible R&B voice, all runs and trills and idiomatic inflections that are very satisfying throughout (he's worked all over town since landing here five years ago, and it's easy to hear why). His stage presence is unmistakable, and you need to hear him sing these songs. You really do. The titular hero of the piece is embodied by the elfin, vaguely quirky-looking Andrew Keltz, who looks to be about 15 until you spy a little chest hair poking its way out of his shirt collar. His is not the most resonant vocal instrument, but he sounds entirely conversation and convincing every time he sings, and he too works all over the place. And he is not a conventional juvenile lead, but he plays them constantly, gifted with the innate ability to convey a searching, restless contemporary spirit, adrift in a society he doesn't understand. James Rank is the Charlemagne here, enacting all the hoary bluster and inner struggle of a man who is admittedly not a brain type of guy. His singing is a combination of exemplary Gilbert and Sullivan patter and baritonal bravado. However, he is saddled with the thankless number, "Welcome Home," which seems to always drag down the action with tons of exposition and not enough flash, so that all "Pippin" productions struggle in the early going. Thankfully, his prayer scene was remarkably nuanced. The veteran Peggy Roeder, playing Berthe until April 13 (she will be replaced by Cindy Gold, faculty member at Northwestern University and recently in "Show Boat" at Lyric Opera of Chicago), is hilarious and sings like the character actress she is, every note and word perfectly produced. And Angie Stemberg (Fastrada) and Jess Godwin (Catherine) are providing a school for contemporary musical theater singing in this production, with personalized stylings couched within perfectly placed belt techiques. If Zach Zube is not the ideal physical type for the character of Lewis, he nonetheless brings energy, focus and excitement to the role. However, young Theo is here portrayed by the pleasant commitment of young Isabelle Roberts, in a fascinating bit of pre-pubescent gender-bent casting. The orchestra of five, conducted by Weinberger and playing his orchestral reduction of the score, plays as softly as one could imagine a pop-rock score could be played, to their credit and the credit of sound designer Christopher Kriz. In addition to the songs I've already mentioned, I loved "On the Right Track," for its perfect blend of choreography, acting moments, use of the playing space and the singing of the two male leads, the lovely and still "Love Song" by Keltz and Godwin, and, especially, Roeder and Company's delivery of "No Time At All," complete with audience sing-along and hitting all the right showbiz mastery this number requires. Can I discuss the ending of the show for a bit? I know this show's coup de theatre ending is supposed to be a secret surprise, but it's over 40 years old, and fairly well known to the readers of BroadwayWorld. So, here I go. When the Leading Player proposed to Pippin that he should end his life in a glorious blazing bonfire and Pippin refuses, prompting the Leading Player to order the removal of all "theatrical" elements (lights, costumes, music) from Pippin and Catherine, I'm never quite sure that it ever truly works. First of all, is Pippin the character rebelling, or is the unnamed actor playing him in the Leading Player's troupe rebelling? And why does the L.P. get so upset? This is not set up very well by bookwriter Roger O. Hirson (was it Fosse's idea?), nor is it really explained--this oversized, childish reaction to an actor (or character) refusing to follow the script. If you don't know it's coming, it's shocking and unique and interesting. But once you think about it, it doesn't make a whole lot of sense. It makes a point, but it isn't as perfect an ending as I wish it were. Oh, well. Small quibble. That being said, this particular production handles it pretty well. The lights and flashiness of the show do indeed reach their peak just before the unforeseen turn of events, and the final image of Pippin, Catherine and Theo in their underwear does carry the meaning it is intended to convey. Actually, the lighting for this show (by Charles Cooper) is one of its best aspects. The lights change constantly, directing the eye and conveying the mood and creating the time and place. I was extremely impressed. I don't think the workable scenic design (Stephen M. Carmody), properties design (Nick Heggestad) or costume design (Jessica Snyder) of this production would come off near as well, were the lighting not so perfect. So, kudos to Reddish and TMTC for a fun, meaningful and stylistically appropriate "Pippin," with moments of real creativity. The level of vocal excellence here is not always heard in other small, intimate theaters, and speaks to the priorities of this still-young company. If you love that legendary cast album, you'll enjoy this production, even with a small orchestra. And the show's theme of staying true to oneself, while looking for love and finding joy and meaning in the simple things of life, is a timeless one, well worth revisiting. Applause for the company of "Pippin!" The Music Theatre Company's production of "Pippin," by Stephen Schwartz and Roger O. Hirson, plays March 22-May 6, 2012 at the Karger Center, 1850 Green Bay Road in Highland Park, directed and choreographed by Founding Artistic Director Jessica Reddish. Tickets are available by calling 847.579.4900 or by visiting www.themusictheatrecompany.org. PHOTOS: (top) Andrew Keltz as Pippin with (L to R) Emily Rogers, Lucy Zukaitis and Sasha Kostyrko in "Pippin" at The Music Theatre Company; (bottom) Joey Stone as the Leading Player with cast members of "Pippin" at The Music Theatre Company PHOTO CREDIT: www.jonathansportraits.com

Lee Brady is a playwright and woman of many theatrical hats, including actor, professor, and critic. Her What About Ben? will be the only play in the current 3Girls Women's Theatre Festival to have been previously produced. The one-character play won an International Playwriting Award in 2003 when it was produced in San Jose, Costa Rica.

As the height of the season is upon us, Florida Studio Theatre (FST) is celebrating the past, the present, and the future of the thriving downtown theatre company with a special Black Tie Event. FST's Hard Hats & Tails will be held Monday, March 5, 2012 at 1241 North Palm Avenue in Downtown Sarasota. Carol M. Poteat-Buchanan, one of FST's longtime supporters, will serve as the chair of the event.

Lee Brady is a playwright and woman of many theatrical hats, including actor, professor, and critic. Her What About Ben? will be the only play in the current 3Girls Women's Theatre Festival to have been previously produced. The one-character play won an International Playwriting Award in 2003 when it was produced in San Jose, Costa Rica.

Grammy award winning singer-songwriter Melissa Manchester headlines at The Show at The Agua Caliente Resort and Casino on Saturday, February 25th at 8:00 pm. Although most widely known as a pop recording artist, Ms. Manchester is also an accomplished musical theatre artist having starred alongside Kelsey Grammer in the critically acclaimed Los Angeles production of Stephen Sondheim's masterpiece Sweeney Todd and in the world premiere of the musical Hats! in Chicago, for which she co-wrote several songs with Sarah Vaughn.

Grammy award winning singer-songwriter Melissa Manchester headlines at The Show at The Agua Caliente Resort and Casino on Saturday, February 25th at 8:00 pm. Although most widely known as a pop recording artist, Ms. Manchester is also an accomplished musical theatre artist having starred alongside Kelsey Grammer in the critically acclaimed Los Angeles production of Stephen Sondheim's masterpiece Sweeney Todd and in the world premiere of the musical Hats! in Chicago, for which she co-wrote several songs with Sarah Vaughn.

Delaware Theatre Company will present Crowns, April 11 - 29, 2012. In the show, A young woman who moves down South to live with her aunt is given a lesson in 'hat-titude' in this toe-tapping musical. From feathered hats to flowered hats, pillboxes to turbans, to hats for work and hats for church, there is a hat for every occassion, and a cultural and historical significance to them as well as 'Mother Shaw' and her 'hat queens' share in their stories. This soul-stirring musical demonstrates the handing down of culture from one generation to the next and celebrates the refuge, equality and healing that occurs in this place of spirituality.

As a busy mom, I often bemoan the burden of multi-tasking. I cry and whine about how I never get enough recognition for the fact that I do six jobs at once, every day, and don't get paid for most of them. Then I met Francesca McGrory, and I knew I'd met my multi-tasking match.

Director Steve Bell of Teaneck has been an active member of the Bergen County Players for an impressive thirty year run. Wearing many different hats, Bell is a life member and past president of BCP.

Today we are talking to a star of many notable films and television shows who initially surprised many viewers with his commanding presence as the voice of the Beast in Disney's classic animated film BEAUTY & THE BEAST, now back in theaters for its twentieth anniversary (in 3D) - the one and only Robby Benson. In addition to telling us all about his impressions of and experiences working on BEAUTY & THE BEAST and what he thinks of the new 3D movie experience, he also shares his affection for co-stars Angela Lansbury and Paige O'Hara - both having been previous InDepth InterView participants, as well - and what the storied legacy of the film means to him. Also, Benson discusses his talented family, including his rock star wife, Karla DeVito, and their daughter, a star-on-the-rise in her own right, Lyric (her Benson-produced debut album, LYRIC'S LOVE LIGHT REVOLUTION, is available here) and details the many hats he wears as an actor, director, producer, author, singer and recording artist. Plus, recollections on ICE CASTLES and its haunting Marvin Hamlisch theme, directing FRIENDS and EVENING SHADE, his vivid memories of performing in OLIVER!, THE ROTHSCHILDS, THE PIRATES OF PENZANCE on Broadway and a discussion of his own semi-auto-biographical musical, OPEN HEART, and, of course, what it was like being suggested by Francis Ford Coppola to George Lucas for a role in STAR WARS - and much, much more!

As the height of the season is upon us, Florida Studio Theatre (FST) is celebrating the past, the present, and the future of the thriving downtown theatre company with a special Black Tie Event. FST's Hard Hats & Tails will be held Monday, March 5, 2012 at 1241 North Palm Avenue in Downtown Sarasota. Carol M. Poteat-Buchanan, one of FST's longtime supporters, will serve as the chair of the event.

Today in 1999, Fosse opened at the Broadhurst THeatre, where it ran for 1093 performances. Fosse is a three-act musical revue showcasing the choreography of Bob Fosse. The original Broadway production, conceived and directed by Richard Maltby, Jr. and Ann Reinking was choreographed by Reinking and Chet Walker. In 2002, Fosse, featuring Reinking and Ben Vereen, was aired as part of the Great Performances series on PBS television. A London production opened at the West End Prince of Wales Theatre on February 8, 2000 and closed January 6, 2001. The musical did not recreate the musical numbers as originally presented but instead had primarily black-and-white costumes (including the all-important hats), set against a simple setting.

Welcome in 2012 with Cotuit Center's 'Make Fancy Hats for New Year's Eve'. Join in for their last family event of 2011. These workshops are fun and a great way to renew some creative energy.

Welcome in 2012 with Cotuit Center's 'Make Fancy Hats for New Year's Eve'. Join in for their last family event of 2011. These workshops are fun and a great way to renew some creative energy.

Actors' Playhouse at the Miracle Theatre is holding a Halloween Costume Sale Extravaganza today from 6 to 11 p.m. in its second floor Black Box Theatre. Hundreds of items including one-of-a-kind costumes from past productions, costume pieces, hats and accessories will be priced to sell.

Few members of the American theatrical community have worn more hats, or seen more 'acts' in their careers than Jon Finch. The Bartlesville Oklahoma native was recently honored in Edmund Oklahoma with a gala extravaganza, paying tribute to the esteemed 'Presenter For The Arts,' & one time Ringling Brothers circus clown for a job well done.

Actors' Playhouse at the Miracle Theatre will be holding a Halloween Costume Sale Extravaganza on Saturday, October 8 from 6 to 11 p.m. in its second floor Black Box Theatre. Hundreds of items including one-of-a-kind costumes from past productions, costume pieces, hats and accessories will be priced to sell.

Bill Nabel; a veteran actor of eight Broadway shows with 30 plus years on Broadway with over 9400 performances, a member of the original casts of '42nd Street' and 'Beauty and the Beast' - the latter of which he was the only cast member to do the entire 13 year run; has switched hats and will now see two of his many works mounted within weeks of each other. Utah Shakespeare Festival will present the World Premiere of Mr. Nabel's new play LYING TO SPIELBERG at the Auditorium Theatre (351 West Center Street) in Cedar City, Utah on August 11, 12 and 31. And the Village Theatre will present the West Coast Premiere of TAKE ME AMERICA, a new musical with book and lyrics by Mr. Nabel and music by Bob Christianson from September 14 through November 20 at the Village Theatre of Issaquah, WA and the Village Theatre of Everett, WA.

Bill Nabel; a veteran actor of eight Broadway shows with 30 plus years on Broadway with over 9400 performances, a member of the original casts of '42nd Street' and 'Beauty and the Beast' - the latter of which he was the only cast member to do the entire 13 year run; has switched hats and will now see two of his many works mounted within weeks of each other. Utah Shakespeare Festival will present the World Premiere of Mr. Nabel's new play LYING TO SPIELBERG at the Auditorium Theatre (351 West Center Street) in Cedar City, Utah on August 11, 12 and 31. And the Village Theatre will present the West Coast Premiere of TAKE ME AMERICA, a new musical with book and lyrics by Mr. Nabel and music by Bob Christianson from September 14 through November 20 at the Village Theatre of Issaquah, WA and the Village Theatre of Everett, WA.