Late August will be a great time for country music fans, as Willie, Merle and Ray pay a visit. You can read all about it in this story by "Dandy" Dave Lavender. (Or should it be "Dapper" Dave? "Daring" Dave? I'll work on it.)
And if you don't know the last names of the trio listed above, shame be thy name! It's Nelson, Haggard and Price.
Thursday, May 31, 2007
Wednesday, May 30, 2007
Performances at the Tony Awards
Since the Tony Awards offer a look at the best shows on Broadway, there's always a lot of interest in the musical numbers that are included. The producers made an announcement about it today.
Hey, did I mention that I'll be live-blogging the Tonys? Just checking.
Here's the info:
Hey, did I mention that I'll be live-blogging the Tonys? Just checking.
Here's the info:
Telecast live from Radio City Music Hall on Sunday, June 10, the Tony Awards will feature musical numbers from each of the Tony Nominees for Best Musical - Curtains, Grey Gardens, Mary Poppins and Spring Awakening as well as performances by the casts of Best Musical Revival nominees - A Chorus Line, Company and 110 in the Shade.
The show will also feature a special performance by Fantasia, who's now appearing on Broadway in The Color Purple.
Presenters at the 2007 Tony Awards will include: Harry Connick, Jr., Claire Danes, Jeff Daniels, Brian Dennehy, Carla Gugino, Neil Patrick Harris, Anne Heche, Marg Helgenberger, Judd Hirsch, Felicity Huffman, Melina Kanakaredes, Eddie Izzard, The Jersey Boys - Christian Hoff, Daniel Reichard, J. Robert Spencer and John Lloyd Young, Jane Krakowski, Angela Lansbury, Robert Sean Leonard, John Mahoney, Audra McDonald, Cynthia Nixon, Bernadette Peters, David Hyde Pierce, Christopher Plummer, Liev Schreiber, Kevin Spacey, John Turturro, Usher, Sam Waterston, Vanessa Williams, Rainn Wilson, among others…
Tuesday, May 29, 2007
Live-blogging the Tony Awards
In a couple of weeks (on June 10, to be precise) the Tony Awards will air live on TV, and just for fun, I hope to live-blog the event.
For those who haven't run into it before, live-blogging is sort of a running commentary on the program as it airs - posting live comments, in other words. "American Idol" fans have enjoyed Angela's live comments at her "Idol Chit-Chat" blog, and it looks like fun, so I thought I'd give it a shot.
And since you can't exactly live-blog a theatre show (the audience gets annoyed by the tapping of the keys, not to mention the glare of the computer screen), this is about the only chance I get - so tune in and join the fun!
For those who haven't run into it before, live-blogging is sort of a running commentary on the program as it airs - posting live comments, in other words. "American Idol" fans have enjoyed Angela's live comments at her "Idol Chit-Chat" blog, and it looks like fun, so I thought I'd give it a shot.
And since you can't exactly live-blog a theatre show (the audience gets annoyed by the tapping of the keys, not to mention the glare of the computer screen), this is about the only chance I get - so tune in and join the fun!
Monday, May 28, 2007
In Memoriam - Charles Nelson Reilly
Sad to hear of the passing of actor Charles Nelson Reilly. He was a Tony Award winning actor who was most famous for his TV roles, including lots of appearances on game shows like "The Match Game," which I spent entirely too much of my youth watching.
You can read more about him here.
I never met him, but according to those that did, he was a heck of a nice guy.
You can read more about him here.
I never met him, but according to those that did, he was a heck of a nice guy.
Remembering Memorial Day
I apparently had the same childhood as our pal Jim Ross, because his "Hot Topics" blog entry about Memorial Day could have been written by me (well, most of it, but only if I was a better writer).
When I was young, Memorial Day was a big holiday. A huge gathering of my grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins would form a caravan of vehicles, visiting rural graveyards and putting flowers on the graves of relatives who died long ago. My Uncle Claude would place a small American flag on the graves of the veterans.
We'd have a picnic lunch at a roadside site (back when such things existed) and eventually make our way home. It really wasn't a somber event - it was more a celebration of those who had passed on.
I'm afraid I haven't managed to continue the tradition, although, since moving out on my own, I have spent a few Memorial Days visiting the graves of family members. I like to think that you can observe the day by taking a few moments and remembering your loved ones - even the ancestors who you never met. We wouldn't be here without them! Then again, maybe it's time to revive the family tradition. I wonder where Uncle Claude bought those flags?
Happy Memorial Day, everyone!
When I was young, Memorial Day was a big holiday. A huge gathering of my grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins would form a caravan of vehicles, visiting rural graveyards and putting flowers on the graves of relatives who died long ago. My Uncle Claude would place a small American flag on the graves of the veterans.
We'd have a picnic lunch at a roadside site (back when such things existed) and eventually make our way home. It really wasn't a somber event - it was more a celebration of those who had passed on.
I'm afraid I haven't managed to continue the tradition, although, since moving out on my own, I have spent a few Memorial Days visiting the graves of family members. I like to think that you can observe the day by taking a few moments and remembering your loved ones - even the ancestors who you never met. We wouldn't be here without them! Then again, maybe it's time to revive the family tradition. I wonder where Uncle Claude bought those flags?
Happy Memorial Day, everyone!
The 2007 - 2008 Schedule for ARTS
The group known as Art Resource for the Tri-State (ARTS) is way ahead of the game - they've already announced their schedule for the upcoming year! The shows will all be presented at the Renaissance Center (the old Huntington High School). Here's what they have planned:
"Hello Dolly!" - The famous musical will star Beth McVey in the title role, and will be presented Oct. 12 - 14 and 19 - 20, 2007.
"The Odd Couple" (Female Version) - Lots of people may not realize that the original show was adapted for female leads. It'll be presented March 6-9, 2008.
"A Funny Thing Happened On The Way To The Forum" - The hilarious musical (it's one of my favorites) will be presented June 13 - 15 and 20 - 21, 2008.
For a local theatre group to know what they're doing a year from now is pretty impressive. It's an ambitious lineup - so buy a ticket and show your support!
"Hello Dolly!" - The famous musical will star Beth McVey in the title role, and will be presented Oct. 12 - 14 and 19 - 20, 2007.
"The Odd Couple" (Female Version) - Lots of people may not realize that the original show was adapted for female leads. It'll be presented March 6-9, 2008.
"A Funny Thing Happened On The Way To The Forum" - The hilarious musical (it's one of my favorites) will be presented June 13 - 15 and 20 - 21, 2008.
For a local theatre group to know what they're doing a year from now is pretty impressive. It's an ambitious lineup - so buy a ticket and show your support!
Sunday, May 27, 2007
Star Wars Hits 30
Not to step on the toes of my pal Maureen, who does a fine job hosting the "Movie Maven" blog, but I can't let the weekend pass without noting the 30th Anniversary of the first showing of the movie "Star Wars" (back before it was known as "Episode IV" or "A New Hope").
The movie was first released May 25, 1977, to only 32 theaters around the country - none of them in West Virginia, unfortunately. But within a few weeks the studio executives realized they had a blockbuster on their hands and the film landed in local theaters.
I remember standing in line on that opening night at the Capital Theater in Charleston, W.Va. - and the line was so long, I actually had to wait for the next showing. It was (and still is) an amazing movie-going experience, and I must have seen the movie a half-dozen times over the weeks ahead, dragging all my friends along for the experience.
Now, "Star Wars" is a world-wide phenomenon, and there's a new animated TV show in the works to carry on the legacy. Don't be surprised if, several years down the road, we see more movies created by a new generation of filmmakers.
It was great fun, years ago, to take my kids to see the re-release of the "Star Wars" movies. Perhaps someday I'll be dragging my grandkids along to see the next generation of "Star Wars" films. Hey, I can dream, can't I?
The movie was first released May 25, 1977, to only 32 theaters around the country - none of them in West Virginia, unfortunately. But within a few weeks the studio executives realized they had a blockbuster on their hands and the film landed in local theaters.
I remember standing in line on that opening night at the Capital Theater in Charleston, W.Va. - and the line was so long, I actually had to wait for the next showing. It was (and still is) an amazing movie-going experience, and I must have seen the movie a half-dozen times over the weeks ahead, dragging all my friends along for the experience.
Now, "Star Wars" is a world-wide phenomenon, and there's a new animated TV show in the works to carry on the legacy. Don't be surprised if, several years down the road, we see more movies created by a new generation of filmmakers.
It was great fun, years ago, to take my kids to see the re-release of the "Star Wars" movies. Perhaps someday I'll be dragging my grandkids along to see the next generation of "Star Wars" films. Hey, I can dream, can't I?
Friday, May 25, 2007
Audition Tips
I received some good questions via email recently about auditions, so I wanted to share the information here for anyone thinking about trying out for a show.
At an audition for a musical, you're required to demonstrate your singing skills.
One question was whether it was required or recommended that you do a song from the show you're auditioning for.
Every group has its own rules and requirements spelled out in the audition notice, but as a general rule you're expected to sing about 30 seconds of any song you like - it can be from the show you're trying out for or from any other show. It's always a good idea to bring along sheet music from the song, if you have it. Auditions almost always have someone available to play the piano, or you can bring recorded music (on a CD or a cassette tape) to sing along with. You can actually sing without any music at all - it's up to you. The directors just want to hear your singing voice. But if you're hoping for a leading role, you'd better be prepared - know your song and do your best.
If you're aiming for a specific part, I think it's a good idea to sing a song by that character - it shows your dedication. However, it's not required, and it's much more important to sing a song that you can do well - even if it's from another show. That's the key - pick a song that shows off your range and practice, practice, practice!
Another question was, if the audition are held on more than one day, do you have to be present for each audition day?
Auditions are like signups - you show up, sign in and you're put on the list. When your turn arrives, you do your audition, and then you're done. Because lots of people (hopefully) want to audition, the theatre group has to allow enough time for each one to audition. Some prefer to arrive early to auditions, some wait for the end - it's up to you. Another reason for different days is in case someone has a conflict on one of the days.
As always, if you have questions, leave a comment here or send me an email at TheMinskers@aol.com. Oh, and good luck!
At an audition for a musical, you're required to demonstrate your singing skills.
One question was whether it was required or recommended that you do a song from the show you're auditioning for.
Every group has its own rules and requirements spelled out in the audition notice, but as a general rule you're expected to sing about 30 seconds of any song you like - it can be from the show you're trying out for or from any other show. It's always a good idea to bring along sheet music from the song, if you have it. Auditions almost always have someone available to play the piano, or you can bring recorded music (on a CD or a cassette tape) to sing along with. You can actually sing without any music at all - it's up to you. The directors just want to hear your singing voice. But if you're hoping for a leading role, you'd better be prepared - know your song and do your best.
If you're aiming for a specific part, I think it's a good idea to sing a song by that character - it shows your dedication. However, it's not required, and it's much more important to sing a song that you can do well - even if it's from another show. That's the key - pick a song that shows off your range and practice, practice, practice!
Another question was, if the audition are held on more than one day, do you have to be present for each audition day?
Auditions are like signups - you show up, sign in and you're put on the list. When your turn arrives, you do your audition, and then you're done. Because lots of people (hopefully) want to audition, the theatre group has to allow enough time for each one to audition. Some prefer to arrive early to auditions, some wait for the end - it's up to you. Another reason for different days is in case someone has a conflict on one of the days.
As always, if you have questions, leave a comment here or send me an email at TheMinskers@aol.com. Oh, and good luck!
Thursday, May 24, 2007
Trouble in Tony Town
With the Tony Awards just a couple of weeks away, the behind-the-scenes battle continues over what to include in the broadcast on CBS. The show, despite top talent and some great performances, traditionally does poorly in the ratings, so the TV network is pushing for more lighthearted musical numbers that will appeal to the average viewer.
The problem is, there's a long-standing tradition that only numbers from shows that are nominated for Best Musical are included - and most of those shows are on the serious side. They include "Curtains," "Grey Gardens," "Spring Awakening" and the not-so-serious "Mary Poppins." (You can see the complete list of nominations here.)
According to this article from Variety, the producers hoped to include songs from "Legally Blonde" and "LoveMusick" (which stars Micheal Cerveris), but the idea was shot down, and the show will stick to tradition.
It's a shame, because both those shows have a local connection. Cerveris is from Huntington, and the star of "Blonde" - Laura Bell Bundy - hails from Kentucky. That's show biz!
The problem is, there's a long-standing tradition that only numbers from shows that are nominated for Best Musical are included - and most of those shows are on the serious side. They include "Curtains," "Grey Gardens," "Spring Awakening" and the not-so-serious "Mary Poppins." (You can see the complete list of nominations here.)
According to this article from Variety, the producers hoped to include songs from "Legally Blonde" and "LoveMusick" (which stars Micheal Cerveris), but the idea was shot down, and the show will stick to tradition.
It's a shame, because both those shows have a local connection. Cerveris is from Huntington, and the star of "Blonde" - Laura Bell Bundy - hails from Kentucky. That's show biz!
Wednesday, May 23, 2007
"Carmen" Wows 'Em!
According to my sources, last weekend's performance of "Carmen" in Charleston was a huge success - in fact, it was the first show for the West Virginia Symphony to manage a complete sell-out at the Clay Center - all 1,716 seats!
I'm not surprised - it was a terrific performance, featuring some amazing talent, and the Clay Center is the perfect venue for the show. At the end of the performance, the applause was loud, boisterous and well deserved!
A correction to my review, by the way. I wrote:
It's wonderful to hear the show was such a success - hopefully that means we'll be seeing more operatic productions in the future.
But they'll have a tough time topping this one!
I'm not surprised - it was a terrific performance, featuring some amazing talent, and the Clay Center is the perfect venue for the show. At the end of the performance, the applause was loud, boisterous and well deserved!
A correction to my review, by the way. I wrote:
"I'm not sure the leads even needed microphones, as their powerful, pure voices rang out through the theater."Turns out the joke was on me - they weren't wearing mics at all, which makes the power of their voices and the theater's wonderful acoustics that much more impressive - especially considering they were singing over the orchestra! Now that's talent!
It's wonderful to hear the show was such a success - hopefully that means we'll be seeing more operatic productions in the future.
But they'll have a tough time topping this one!
Tuesday, May 22, 2007
"Oklahoma" Cast List
The Huntington Outdoor Theatre has posted its tentative cast list for this summer's production of "Oklahoma," and you'll find some of the area's top talent on display in there. You can see the complete list right here. (I should stress that this is a tentative list and may change a bit between now and the first show.)
They've also posted the cast list for the Pre-Show, which you can see right here.
They've also posted the cast list for the Pre-Show, which you can see right here.
Get Recognition for Your High School Musical
Here's a note directed at area high schools - this website has information about competition to recognize high school theatre productions. There have been some great shows staged locally, and I'd recommend the teachers or parents involved checking into this.
A tip o' the hat to my pal Len, who pointed this out to me. And hey, it is connected to "High School Musical" - have I mentioned that First Stage will be presenting it in the fall? (He asked, innocently.)
A tip o' the hat to my pal Len, who pointed this out to me. And hey, it is connected to "High School Musical" - have I mentioned that First Stage will be presenting it in the fall? (He asked, innocently.)
Sunday, May 20, 2007
Can You Tell Me How To Get To...?
Yep, "Sesame Street Live" is making a return visit to Huntington next weekend. You can read all about it in this article by Beth Hendricks.
My kids long ago outgrew these shows, sadly enough - but they're great fun for young people, who never seem to mind the fact that the characters on stage (with the exception of Big Bird and Snuffy) are much bigger than they are on TV - but then, kids have a great ability to suspend disbelief, something grownups struggle with.
The kids will love the adventures of "Super Grover," and the grownups will love seeing the look of joy on the faces of the children. It's a "win-win" situation!
My kids long ago outgrew these shows, sadly enough - but they're great fun for young people, who never seem to mind the fact that the characters on stage (with the exception of Big Bird and Snuffy) are much bigger than they are on TV - but then, kids have a great ability to suspend disbelief, something grownups struggle with.
The kids will love the adventures of "Super Grover," and the grownups will love seeing the look of joy on the faces of the children. It's a "win-win" situation!
Saturday, May 19, 2007
What's Derek Up To?
If you've wondered about Derek Keeling, the Scott Depot native who was part of the "Grease: You're The One That I Want" TV reality show, a recent interview shows that he's keeping busy in the Big Apple.
The story also has some interesting insights on his experience during the show. You can read about it right here.
The story also has some interesting insights on his experience during the show. You can read about it right here.
Friday, May 18, 2007
"Carmen" - The Review
Here's a review that doesn't do you much good (hey, it's the speciality of the house). That's because the opera "Carmen," which runs one show Saturday night at Charleston's Clay Center, is virtually sold out (the last I heard, there were 17 seats left).
Still, my pal Mark Hayes managed to score a press pass for me, and I caught last night's dress rehearsal. (You can read more about the show in this previous post.)
Now, for those who don't know it, "Carmen" is an honest-to-goodness opera. I worried that, being a heathen who hadn't seen a "real" opera performance in decades, I'd sit there thinking about which Bugs Bunny cartoon each song originally appeared in. Happily, that wasn't the case - the show is so amazing, so riveting, that you spend most of it in awe of the talent on display.
When you think of community theatre, you picture modest sets and amateur performers - but there was none of that in evidence. The performers were amazing. I'm not sure the leads even needed microphones, as their powerful, pure voices rang out through the theater. Playing the title role is nationally-known soprano Christina Nassif, and she has an incredible voice.
The West Virginia Symphony Orchestra provided the music, and they were incredible! A top-notch, thoroughly professional production - their performance alone was worth the cost of admission.
Add to it amazing sets and costumes, and you have a performance that managed something I would have thought impossible - it made me enjoy opera!
Now, for you non-opera fans, yes, the show is long - it runs about three hours, with two intermissions thrown in - and yes, they're not singing in English, but the production has thoughtfully provided translations, courtesy of a projection at the top of the stage. Still, I guarantee you'll have a great time.
So if you get the opportunity, go and get some culture! You don't often get a chance like this, and trust me - it doesn't hurt a bit. "Carmen" gets my highest recommendation!
Still, my pal Mark Hayes managed to score a press pass for me, and I caught last night's dress rehearsal. (You can read more about the show in this previous post.)
Now, for those who don't know it, "Carmen" is an honest-to-goodness opera. I worried that, being a heathen who hadn't seen a "real" opera performance in decades, I'd sit there thinking about which Bugs Bunny cartoon each song originally appeared in. Happily, that wasn't the case - the show is so amazing, so riveting, that you spend most of it in awe of the talent on display.
When you think of community theatre, you picture modest sets and amateur performers - but there was none of that in evidence. The performers were amazing. I'm not sure the leads even needed microphones, as their powerful, pure voices rang out through the theater. Playing the title role is nationally-known soprano Christina Nassif, and she has an incredible voice.
The West Virginia Symphony Orchestra provided the music, and they were incredible! A top-notch, thoroughly professional production - their performance alone was worth the cost of admission.
Add to it amazing sets and costumes, and you have a performance that managed something I would have thought impossible - it made me enjoy opera!
Now, for you non-opera fans, yes, the show is long - it runs about three hours, with two intermissions thrown in - and yes, they're not singing in English, but the production has thoughtfully provided translations, courtesy of a projection at the top of the stage. Still, I guarantee you'll have a great time.
So if you get the opportunity, go and get some culture! You don't often get a chance like this, and trust me - it doesn't hurt a bit. "Carmen" gets my highest recommendation!
Thursday, May 17, 2007
An Artistic Review on Sunday
More than just a dance recital, the Elite Performance Academy will put on an Artistic Review this weekend in Huntington, and it includes some talented folks. My pal Michelle Shaver Heiner sent along this information:
Elite Performance Academy presents their Artistic Review 2007, Sunday, May 20, 2007, with shows at 2:00pm and 6:00pm at Marshall University's Joan C. Edwards Performing Arts Center.
This family oriented show will be presented in two acts: "Performers In Motion" and "Disney Magic."
The Review will showcase the current Elite students. Guest Artists, both local and travelling from Pittsburgh, Penn., and Washington, DC, will perform in the Review as well.
Guest Artist vocalists include favorites Chris Sizemore and Ryan Hardiman. Sizemore recently toured with Roald Dahl's "Willy Wonka" (National Tour) Kennedy Center production and Hardiman dazzled tri-state audiences in his roles as the Beast in the Huntington Outdoor Theatre production of "Disney's Beauty And The Beast" and Berger in Marshall University Theatre's production of "HAIR." Guest Artist dance performers include Danielle Scanlon, Travis Layman and Laura Ptakowski all from Point Park University in Pittsburgh, Penn., and former students of Elite Owner/Instructor, Marlo Shaver Wentz. Desiree Hall is a current triple threat student of Marlo Shaver Wentz and is from Washington, DC. Desiree has performed with Debbie Allen at the Kennedy Center and with the Kirov Ballet Company and currently travels from the DC area to Huntington on a regular basis to train with Marlo Shaver Wentz.
Ticket cost is $12.00 and are now on sale at the Marshall University box office. You can order tickets weekdays from 1:00 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. and on Sunday beginning at 12:30 p.m.
For more information call Michelle Shaver Heiner at 69-STAGE (697-8243).
Wednesday, May 16, 2007
Tango the Night Away
Hope you got to see the "Forever Tango" show last night - unfortunately, I missed it. As I've said before, you can't see everything.You can see a photo gallery of some lucky residents getting lessons from
Jorge Torres, the "Forever Tango" dance captain, right here. (That's him in the photo.)
He demonstrated dance steps during the Tango Master Class offered in conjunction with the Marshall Artists Series performance - but not during the production, I assume.
The photo at right is by the Herald-Dispatch's Lori Wolfe.
Tuesday, May 15, 2007
On Stage Tonight - Forever Tango
The Marshall Artist Series wraps up its season tonight with Forever Tango.
Luis Bravo, the famous Argentinean director and creator of Forever Tango, brings the Marshall Artists Series’ 70th season to an end at 8:00 p.m. at the Keith-Albee.
The show features a cast of 26 performers including 14 exceptional dancers who tango the night away on a stage pulsating with drama, history and live music.
Tickets are $48.50, $43.50, and $35. They can be purchased at the Box Office or through Ticketmaster.
For more information, call (304) 696-6656.
Luis Bravo, the famous Argentinean director and creator of Forever Tango, brings the Marshall Artists Series’ 70th season to an end at 8:00 p.m. at the Keith-Albee.
The show features a cast of 26 performers including 14 exceptional dancers who tango the night away on a stage pulsating with drama, history and live music.
Tickets are $48.50, $43.50, and $35. They can be purchased at the Box Office or through Ticketmaster.
For more information, call (304) 696-6656.
Tony Award Nominees for 2007
It's the day true theatre fans have been looking forward to - the Tony Award nominees were announced today! Those awards honor the best shows and performances on Broadway in the past year. The winners will be announced at the televised awards ceremony June 10, and with any luck at all, just for fun, I'll be live-blogging the show.
Leading this year's pack was Spring Awakening, which received 11 Tony nominations. The Coast of Utopia and Grey Gardens earned 10 nominations each. Curtains picked up eight nominations, and Mary Poppins and Legally Blonde got seven each. LoveMusik star Michael Cerveris (a former Huntingon resident) was nominated for Best Performance by a Leading Actor in a Musical.
Here is a complete list of this year's nominees:
Best Play
The Coast of Utopia by Tom Stoppard
Frost/Nixon by Peter Morgan
The Little Dog Laughed by Douglas Carter Beane
Radio Golf by August Wilson
Best Musical
Curtains
Grey Gardens
Mary Poppins
Spring Awakening
Best Revival of a Play
Inherit the Wind
Journey's End
Talk Radio
Translations
Best Revival of a Musical
110 in the Shade
The Apple Tree
A Chorus Line
Company
Best Special Theatrical Event
Jay Johnson: The Two and Only
Kiki & Herb Alive on Broadway
Best Performance by a Leading Actor in a Play
Boyd Gaines, Journey's End
Frank Langella, Frost/Nixon
Brian F. O'Byrne, The Coast of Utopia
Christopher Plummer, Inherit the Wind
Liev Schreiber, Talk Radio
Best Performance by a Leading Actress in a Play
Eve Best, A Moon for the Misbegotten
Angela Lansbury, Deuce
Swoosie Kurtz, Heartbreak House
Vanessa Redgrave, The Year of Magical Thinking
Julie White, Talk Little Dog Laughed
Best Performance by a Leading Actor in a Musical
Michael Cerveris, LoveMusik
Raul Esparza, Company
Jonathan Groff, Spring Awakening
Gavin Lee, Mary Poppins
David Hyde Pierce, Curtains
Best Performance by a Leading Actress in a Musical
Laura Bell Bundy, Legally Blonde
Christine Ebersole, Grey Gardens
Audra McDonald, 110 in the Shade
Donna Murphy, LoveMusik
Debra Monk, Curtains
Best Performance by a Featured Actor in a Play
Anthony Chisholm, Radio Golf
Billy Crudup, The Coast of Utopia
Ethan Hawke, The Coast of Utopia
John Earl Jelks, Radio Golf
Stark Sands, Journey's End
Best Performance by a Featured Actress in a Play
Jennifer Ehle, The Coast of Utopia
Xanthe Elbrick, Coram Boy
Dana Ivey, Butley
Jan Maxwell, Coram Boy
Martha Plimpton, The Coast of Utopia
Best Performance by a Featured Actor in a Musical
Brooks Ashmanskas, Martin Short: Fame Becomes Me
Christian Borle, Legally Blonde
John Cullum, 110 in the Shade
John Gallagher, Jr., Spring Awakening
David Pittu, LoveMusik
Best Performance by a Featured Actress in a Musical
Charlotte d'Amboise, A Chorus Line
Rebecca Luker, Mary Poppins
Orfeh, Legally Blonde
Mary Louise Wilson, Grey Gardens
Karen Ziemba, Curtains
Best Direction of a Play
Michael Grandage, Frost/Nixon
David Grindley, Journey's End
Jack O'Brien, The Coast of Utopia
Melly Still, Coram Boy
Best Direction of a Musical
John Doyle, Company
Scott Ellis, Curtains
Michael Greif, Grey Gardens
Michael Mayer, Spring Awakening
Best Choreography
Rob Ashford, Curtains
Matthew Bourne and Stephen Mear, Mary Poppins
Bill T. Jones, Spring Awakening
Jerry Mitchell, Legally Blonde
Best Book of a Musical
Rupert Holmes and Peter Stone, Curtains
Doug Wright, Grey Gardens
Heather Hach, Legally Blonde
Steven Sater, Spring Awakening
Best Original Score (Music and/or Lyrics) Written for the Theatre
Music: John Kander; Lyrics: Fred Ebb, John Kander & Ruper Holmes, Curtains
Music: Scott Frankel; Lyrics: Michael Korie, Grey Gardens
Music & Lyrics: Laurence O'Keefe and Nell Benjamin, Legally Blonde
Music: Duncan Sheik; Lyrics: Steven Sater, Spring Awakening
Best Orchestrations
Bruce Coughlin, Grey Gardens
Duncan Sheik, Spring Awakening
Jonathan Tunick, LoveMusik
Jonathan Tunick, 110 in the Shade
Best Scenic Design of a Play
Bob Crowley and Scott Pask, The Coast of Utopia
Jonathan Fensom, Journey's End
David Gallo, Radio Golf
Ti Green and Melly Still, Coram Boy
Best Scenic Design of a Musical
Bob Crowley, Mary Poppins
Christine Jones, Spring Awakening
Anna Louizos, High Fidelity
Allen Moyer, Grey Gardens
Best Costume Design of a Play
Ti Green and Melly Still, Coram Boy
Jane Greenwood, Heartbreak House
Santo Loquasto, Inherit the Wind
Catherine Zuber, The Coast of Utopia
Best Costume Design of a Musical
Gregg Barnes, Legally Blonde
Bob Crowley, Mary Poppins
Susan Hilferty, Spring Awakening
William Ivey Long, Grey Gardens
Best Lighting Design of a Play
Paule Constable, Coram Boy
Brian MacDevitt, Inherit the Wind
Brian MacDevitt, Kenneth Posner and Natasha Katz, The Coast of Utopia
Jason Taylor, Journey's End
Best Lighting Design of a Musical
Kevin Adams, Spring Awakening
Christopher Akerlind, 110 in the Shade
Howard Harrison, Mary Poppins
Peter Kaczorowski, Grey Gardens
Regional Theatre Tony Award
Alliance Theatre, Atlanta, GA
Leading this year's pack was Spring Awakening, which received 11 Tony nominations. The Coast of Utopia and Grey Gardens earned 10 nominations each. Curtains picked up eight nominations, and Mary Poppins and Legally Blonde got seven each. LoveMusik star Michael Cerveris (a former Huntingon resident) was nominated for Best Performance by a Leading Actor in a Musical.
Here is a complete list of this year's nominees:
Best Play
The Coast of Utopia by Tom Stoppard
Frost/Nixon by Peter Morgan
The Little Dog Laughed by Douglas Carter Beane
Radio Golf by August Wilson
Best Musical
Curtains
Grey Gardens
Mary Poppins
Spring Awakening
Best Revival of a Play
Inherit the Wind
Journey's End
Talk Radio
Translations
Best Revival of a Musical
110 in the Shade
The Apple Tree
A Chorus Line
Company
Best Special Theatrical Event
Jay Johnson: The Two and Only
Kiki & Herb Alive on Broadway
Best Performance by a Leading Actor in a Play
Boyd Gaines, Journey's End
Frank Langella, Frost/Nixon
Brian F. O'Byrne, The Coast of Utopia
Christopher Plummer, Inherit the Wind
Liev Schreiber, Talk Radio
Best Performance by a Leading Actress in a Play
Eve Best, A Moon for the Misbegotten
Angela Lansbury, Deuce
Swoosie Kurtz, Heartbreak House
Vanessa Redgrave, The Year of Magical Thinking
Julie White, Talk Little Dog Laughed
Best Performance by a Leading Actor in a Musical
Michael Cerveris, LoveMusik
Raul Esparza, Company
Jonathan Groff, Spring Awakening
Gavin Lee, Mary Poppins
David Hyde Pierce, Curtains
Best Performance by a Leading Actress in a Musical
Laura Bell Bundy, Legally Blonde
Christine Ebersole, Grey Gardens
Audra McDonald, 110 in the Shade
Donna Murphy, LoveMusik
Debra Monk, Curtains
Best Performance by a Featured Actor in a Play
Anthony Chisholm, Radio Golf
Billy Crudup, The Coast of Utopia
Ethan Hawke, The Coast of Utopia
John Earl Jelks, Radio Golf
Stark Sands, Journey's End
Best Performance by a Featured Actress in a Play
Jennifer Ehle, The Coast of Utopia
Xanthe Elbrick, Coram Boy
Dana Ivey, Butley
Jan Maxwell, Coram Boy
Martha Plimpton, The Coast of Utopia
Best Performance by a Featured Actor in a Musical
Brooks Ashmanskas, Martin Short: Fame Becomes Me
Christian Borle, Legally Blonde
John Cullum, 110 in the Shade
John Gallagher, Jr., Spring Awakening
David Pittu, LoveMusik
Best Performance by a Featured Actress in a Musical
Charlotte d'Amboise, A Chorus Line
Rebecca Luker, Mary Poppins
Orfeh, Legally Blonde
Mary Louise Wilson, Grey Gardens
Karen Ziemba, Curtains
Best Direction of a Play
Michael Grandage, Frost/Nixon
David Grindley, Journey's End
Jack O'Brien, The Coast of Utopia
Melly Still, Coram Boy
Best Direction of a Musical
John Doyle, Company
Scott Ellis, Curtains
Michael Greif, Grey Gardens
Michael Mayer, Spring Awakening
Best Choreography
Rob Ashford, Curtains
Matthew Bourne and Stephen Mear, Mary Poppins
Bill T. Jones, Spring Awakening
Jerry Mitchell, Legally Blonde
Best Book of a Musical
Rupert Holmes and Peter Stone, Curtains
Doug Wright, Grey Gardens
Heather Hach, Legally Blonde
Steven Sater, Spring Awakening
Best Original Score (Music and/or Lyrics) Written for the Theatre
Music: John Kander; Lyrics: Fred Ebb, John Kander & Ruper Holmes, Curtains
Music: Scott Frankel; Lyrics: Michael Korie, Grey Gardens
Music & Lyrics: Laurence O'Keefe and Nell Benjamin, Legally Blonde
Music: Duncan Sheik; Lyrics: Steven Sater, Spring Awakening
Best Orchestrations
Bruce Coughlin, Grey Gardens
Duncan Sheik, Spring Awakening
Jonathan Tunick, LoveMusik
Jonathan Tunick, 110 in the Shade
Best Scenic Design of a Play
Bob Crowley and Scott Pask, The Coast of Utopia
Jonathan Fensom, Journey's End
David Gallo, Radio Golf
Ti Green and Melly Still, Coram Boy
Best Scenic Design of a Musical
Bob Crowley, Mary Poppins
Christine Jones, Spring Awakening
Anna Louizos, High Fidelity
Allen Moyer, Grey Gardens
Best Costume Design of a Play
Ti Green and Melly Still, Coram Boy
Jane Greenwood, Heartbreak House
Santo Loquasto, Inherit the Wind
Catherine Zuber, The Coast of Utopia
Best Costume Design of a Musical
Gregg Barnes, Legally Blonde
Bob Crowley, Mary Poppins
Susan Hilferty, Spring Awakening
William Ivey Long, Grey Gardens
Best Lighting Design of a Play
Paule Constable, Coram Boy
Brian MacDevitt, Inherit the Wind
Brian MacDevitt, Kenneth Posner and Natasha Katz, The Coast of Utopia
Jason Taylor, Journey's End
Best Lighting Design of a Musical
Kevin Adams, Spring Awakening
Christopher Akerlind, 110 in the Shade
Howard Harrison, Mary Poppins
Peter Kaczorowski, Grey Gardens
Regional Theatre Tony Award
Alliance Theatre, Atlanta, GA
Monday, May 14, 2007
Last Tango and Assorted Links
A reminder that tomorrow night's performance of "Forever Tango" at the Keith-Albee Theatre wraps up this season's Marshall Artists Series shows (the photo at left is from the production). You can read more about it here. They should be announcing the upcoming season for the Marshall Artists Series in a few months - I can't wait to see what they have lined up!
In other news, you can read about the local celebration of the 40th anniversary of a local Jazz Festival coming up on May 18-19.
Also, art lovers will want to check out the visit by a Nebraska printmaker to the Museum of Art on Thursday - you can read more about it here.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)