A little something fun for those of you who like Tom Lehrer (or have seen Tom Foolery, the musical revue of his songs). Daniel Radcliffe sings Tom Lehrer's The Elements on The Graham Norton Show.
Friday, November 12, 2010
Interview with Seth Bisen-Hersh of BROADWAY CAN! A Concert for the Citymeals-on-Wheels and City Harvest
By Byrne Harrison
Seth Bisen-Hersh is a prolific and versatile New York City based musical theatre composer/ lyricist who works as a pianist, accompanist, musical director and vocal coach.
Bisen-Hersh made his professional cabaret debut at Don't Tell Mama with Two Singular Sensations, a battle of the ego through Broadway showtunes, co-starring Rori Nogee. Starting in 2003, Bisen-Hersh began doing nearly annual cabarets of his own material, commencing with solo acts then expanding to ensemble casts. Each cabaret consisted of 16-18 new songs grouped by theme: And Then She Dumped Me (2003), The Gayest Straight Man Alive (2004), Meaningful Sex (2005), Neurotic Tendencies (2006), Why Am I Not Famous Yet? (2007), Writer’s Block (2008) and I'll Relax When I'm Dead (2010).
Furthermore, Bisen-Hersh has developed two annual charity concerts of his work featuring Broadway actors: Broadway Meows for The Humane Society of New York, each summer and Broadway Can!, a can collecting concert each fall.
How did Broadway Can! come about?
The first charity concert we did was Broadway Meows in July 2009, which was a thank you to the Humane Society for saving my cat's life and not charging a fortune. After that great experience, we decided to do another concert during the holiday season, and I had a dream that we were doing a can raising drive called YES BROADWAY CAN! which was deemed too Obama-esque, so Broadway Can! became its title. This is our 2nd Annual one.
How do you recruit performers for the event?
Mostly through Facebook. I go through my friend list and start asking everyone I know with a Broadway credit. Also, with the stars I'm closer to I will ask for referrals. Actually, Facebook wouldn't let me go into my account without re-verifying it when I was writing so many strangers b/c they thought I was a stalker or something. Which I am, but that's a whole different story. Just kidding... mostly.
How did you choose this year's charities?
That was all Dennis Fowler! We wanted to find smaller charities that would be really happy to have us involved, and I think he probably did some google searches, and then contacted a few to see their reactions. I am thrilled with how the timing all worked out - our concert is two weeks before Thanksgiving, and we're giving all the money to Citymeals-on-Wheels for their Thanksgiving drive (They provide meals for senior citizens), and since they don't take cans, we decided to bring in a second charity, City Harvest, and give those to them for their Thanksgiving drive.
I understand this is the last time your fans will be able to see you for a while. Can you tell me a little about your new project?
Well, they can still come to my weekly showcases and watch my YouTube channel - youtube.com/sethbh42, but I am taking a 6-month hiatus from self-producing because I am exhausted and over-extended. I have 3 shows ready for Off-Broadway production, and I am going to take the time to focus on getting those produced and financed, not only in NYC, but around the country - all 3 are available for licensing at sethbh.com/shows3.html. There's LOVE QUIRKS which is an hourlong song cycle designed for colleges or black box theatres; STANLEY'S PARTY, a 50-minute musical based on the popular picture book, for children's theatres; and MORE TO LOVE, a two-act musical that takes place in a gym about accepting one's body, for community/ regional theatres.
But I think the new project you are referring to is my new web series: Every Day a Little Seth. It is still in its seminal state - I hope to film the first episode soon. Basically it's a shameless attempt to get an HBO sitcom. I am going to rant about situations and tell genuine anecdotes about my life, while illustrating how it could all be turned into a fleshed out show. Each episode takes its title from one of my songs, and that becomes the theme I will ramble about, and then at the end I will perform the song.
I think it'll be quite unique, and fairly humorous, and I am hoping to go viral... in the good sense of the word.
Broadway Can!
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 14TH, 8PM
$22 Cover/ 2 Drink Minimum (cash only - $2 off with the donation of a canned good)
Don't Tell Mama, 343 W. 46th St.
Call for reservations after 4: 212-757-0788 or reserve online at donttellmamanyc.com
Seth Bisen-Hersh is a prolific and versatile New York City based musical theatre composer/ lyricist who works as a pianist, accompanist, musical director and vocal coach.Bisen-Hersh made his professional cabaret debut at Don't Tell Mama with Two Singular Sensations, a battle of the ego through Broadway showtunes, co-starring Rori Nogee. Starting in 2003, Bisen-Hersh began doing nearly annual cabarets of his own material, commencing with solo acts then expanding to ensemble casts. Each cabaret consisted of 16-18 new songs grouped by theme: And Then She Dumped Me (2003), The Gayest Straight Man Alive (2004), Meaningful Sex (2005), Neurotic Tendencies (2006), Why Am I Not Famous Yet? (2007), Writer’s Block (2008) and I'll Relax When I'm Dead (2010).
Furthermore, Bisen-Hersh has developed two annual charity concerts of his work featuring Broadway actors: Broadway Meows for The Humane Society of New York, each summer and Broadway Can!, a can collecting concert each fall.
How did Broadway Can! come about?
The first charity concert we did was Broadway Meows in July 2009, which was a thank you to the Humane Society for saving my cat's life and not charging a fortune. After that great experience, we decided to do another concert during the holiday season, and I had a dream that we were doing a can raising drive called YES BROADWAY CAN! which was deemed too Obama-esque, so Broadway Can! became its title. This is our 2nd Annual one.
How do you recruit performers for the event?
Mostly through Facebook. I go through my friend list and start asking everyone I know with a Broadway credit. Also, with the stars I'm closer to I will ask for referrals. Actually, Facebook wouldn't let me go into my account without re-verifying it when I was writing so many strangers b/c they thought I was a stalker or something. Which I am, but that's a whole different story. Just kidding... mostly.
How did you choose this year's charities?
That was all Dennis Fowler! We wanted to find smaller charities that would be really happy to have us involved, and I think he probably did some google searches, and then contacted a few to see their reactions. I am thrilled with how the timing all worked out - our concert is two weeks before Thanksgiving, and we're giving all the money to Citymeals-on-Wheels for their Thanksgiving drive (They provide meals for senior citizens), and since they don't take cans, we decided to bring in a second charity, City Harvest, and give those to them for their Thanksgiving drive.
I understand this is the last time your fans will be able to see you for a while. Can you tell me a little about your new project?
Well, they can still come to my weekly showcases and watch my YouTube channel - youtube.com/sethbh42, but I am taking a 6-month hiatus from self-producing because I am exhausted and over-extended. I have 3 shows ready for Off-Broadway production, and I am going to take the time to focus on getting those produced and financed, not only in NYC, but around the country - all 3 are available for licensing at sethbh.com/shows3.html. There's LOVE QUIRKS which is an hourlong song cycle designed for colleges or black box theatres; STANLEY'S PARTY, a 50-minute musical based on the popular picture book, for children's theatres; and MORE TO LOVE, a two-act musical that takes place in a gym about accepting one's body, for community/ regional theatres.
But I think the new project you are referring to is my new web series: Every Day a Little Seth. It is still in its seminal state - I hope to film the first episode soon. Basically it's a shameless attempt to get an HBO sitcom. I am going to rant about situations and tell genuine anecdotes about my life, while illustrating how it could all be turned into a fleshed out show. Each episode takes its title from one of my songs, and that becomes the theme I will ramble about, and then at the end I will perform the song.
I think it'll be quite unique, and fairly humorous, and I am hoping to go viral... in the good sense of the word.
Broadway Can!
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 14TH, 8PM
$22 Cover/ 2 Drink Minimum (cash only - $2 off with the donation of a canned good)
Don't Tell Mama, 343 W. 46th St.
Call for reservations after 4: 212-757-0788 or reserve online at donttellmamanyc.com
Thursday, November 11, 2010
Canned Ham to Return to Dixon Place for a One-Night Benefit Performance
By Byrne Harrison
One year after premiering his one-man musical theatrical memoir Canned Ham at Dixon Place, Tom Judson returns to that same stage for a one-night-only "re-premiere" of the new, expanded version of the show Sunday, November 14th at 7:00pm. And that one night happens to coincide with Tom's 50th birthday, making for a truly celebratory evening.
Canned Ham details Tom's life in all areas of show business: acting in Broadway musicals (Cabaret, 42nd Street) composing music for film and television (Whit Stillman's Metropolitan, Sesame Street) and the work for which he is probably most widely known, appearing in gay adult films as Gus Mattox. Stories and songs are interwoven with visuals and musical numbers to describe a life that is extraordinary yet-because the story is bookended by the tale of his partner's death from AIDS-all too familiar to many. Tom accompanies himself on the piano, the accordion, the trumpet and nine other instruments - sometimes simultaneously.
For reservations visit www.dixonplace.org or call 212-219-0736.
To see the review of Canned Ham's Provincetown run, click here.
One year after premiering his one-man musical theatrical memoir Canned Ham at Dixon Place, Tom Judson returns to that same stage for a one-night-only "re-premiere" of the new, expanded version of the show Sunday, November 14th at 7:00pm. And that one night happens to coincide with Tom's 50th birthday, making for a truly celebratory evening.Canned Ham details Tom's life in all areas of show business: acting in Broadway musicals (Cabaret, 42nd Street) composing music for film and television (Whit Stillman's Metropolitan, Sesame Street) and the work for which he is probably most widely known, appearing in gay adult films as Gus Mattox. Stories and songs are interwoven with visuals and musical numbers to describe a life that is extraordinary yet-because the story is bookended by the tale of his partner's death from AIDS-all too familiar to many. Tom accompanies himself on the piano, the accordion, the trumpet and nine other instruments - sometimes simultaneously.
For reservations visit www.dixonplace.org or call 212-219-0736.
To see the review of Canned Ham's Provincetown run, click here.
Sondheim! The Birthday Concert to Air on PBS on November 24th
The star-studded event, Sondheim! The Birthday Concert, celebrating the 80th birthday of the Broadway and film legend Stephen Sondheim with performances of his music and songs by some of the world’s biggest talents, will make its debut on PBS stations across the country on November 24th, thanks to the Emmy Award-winning producer Ellen M. Krass and Tony Award-winning co-producers Stewart F. Lane and Bonnie Comley in association with Thirteen/WNET and Image Entertainment. The production, which is hosted by David Hyde Pierce, will air at 9PM ET (check local listings).
Originally presented by the New York Philharmonic at Lincoln Center’s Avery Fisher Hall on March 15th and March 16th, 2010, Sondheim! The Birthday Concert includes show-stopping numbers by Patti LuPone, Audra McDonald, Mandy Patinkin, Bernadette Peters, Donna Murphy, Michael Cerveris, Elaine Stritch, Nathan Gunn, and many more. Led by world-renowned conductor Paul Gemignani and Emmy-nominated director Lonny Price, the evening includes songs and orchestral pieces from Sondheim musical theater favorites such as Company, Follies, A Little Night Music, Sweeney Todd, Merrily We Roll Along, Sunday in the Park with George, Passion, A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum, and Anyone Can Whistle, along with a suite from music he wrote for the film Reds, which has never before been performed live.
Sondheim! The Birthday Concert is the third television co-production of Ellen M. Krass Productions, Stewart F. Lane, and Bonnie Comley in association with Thirteen/WNET and Image Entertainment. The first two were Cyrano de Bergerac (2009) and Company (2008), both for PBS’s “Great Performances.” The only continuing primetime performance showcase on American television, “Great Performances” presents a diverse programming portfolio of the performing arts. With its programs garnering 64 Emmy Awards and four George Foster Peabody Awards, the series has received every major television honor. Lonny Price directed Sondheim! The Birthday Concert for television, with Gary Bradley as editor.
Originally presented by the New York Philharmonic at Lincoln Center’s Avery Fisher Hall on March 15th and March 16th, 2010, Sondheim! The Birthday Concert includes show-stopping numbers by Patti LuPone, Audra McDonald, Mandy Patinkin, Bernadette Peters, Donna Murphy, Michael Cerveris, Elaine Stritch, Nathan Gunn, and many more. Led by world-renowned conductor Paul Gemignani and Emmy-nominated director Lonny Price, the evening includes songs and orchestral pieces from Sondheim musical theater favorites such as Company, Follies, A Little Night Music, Sweeney Todd, Merrily We Roll Along, Sunday in the Park with George, Passion, A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum, and Anyone Can Whistle, along with a suite from music he wrote for the film Reds, which has never before been performed live.
Sondheim! The Birthday Concert is the third television co-production of Ellen M. Krass Productions, Stewart F. Lane, and Bonnie Comley in association with Thirteen/WNET and Image Entertainment. The first two were Cyrano de Bergerac (2009) and Company (2008), both for PBS’s “Great Performances.” The only continuing primetime performance showcase on American television, “Great Performances” presents a diverse programming portfolio of the performing arts. With its programs garnering 64 Emmy Awards and four George Foster Peabody Awards, the series has received every major television honor. Lonny Price directed Sondheim! The Birthday Concert for television, with Gary Bradley as editor.
Second Annual Broadway Can! Benefit To Be Held Sunday, November 14th
BROADWAY CAN! A Concert for the Citymeals-on-Wheels & City Harvest
A night of Seth Bisen-Hersh's music performed by Broadway performers!
starring:
KARMINE ALERS (Rent)
SETH BISEN-HERSH
JESSICA LEIGH BROWN (Nine)
LANENE CHARTERS (Mamma Mia)
BRIAN CHILDERS (Danny and Sylvia)
RUSSELL FISCHER (Jersey Boys)
KIMBERLY FAYE GREENBERG (Danny and Sylvia)
MADISON JAMES
RORI NOGEE (Pinkalicious)
JESSICA LEA PATTY (The Addams Family)
ARBENDER ROBINSON (Hair)
BRIAN CHARLES ROONEY (The Threepenny Opera)
BRANDON RUCKDASHEL (Co-Ed Confidential)
BRIAN SHAW
BETSY STRUXNESS (Memphis)
SHELLEY THOMAS (Brooklyn)
ALENA WATTERS (The Addams Family)
CORREY WEST (South Pacific)
KRISTEN BETH WILLIAMS (Promises, Promises)
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 14TH, 8PM
$22 Cover/ 2 Drink Minimum (cash only - $2 off with the donation of a canned good)
Don't Tell Mama, 343 W. 46th St.
Call for reservations after 4: 212-757-0788 or reserve online at donttellmamanyc.com
The 2nd Annual Broadway Can! A Concert for Citymeals-on-Wheels & City Harvest will be presented at Don't Tell Mama, one night only, Sunday, November 14th at 8pm. The evening will be comprised of songs by composer/ lyricist Seth Bisen-Hersh. Bisen-Hersh will be joined on stage by a phenomenal cast including Karmine Alers (Rent), Jessica Leigh Brown (Nine), Lanene Charters (Mamma Mia), Brian Childers (Danny and Sylvia), Russell Fischer (Jersey Boys), Kimberly Faye Greenberg (Danny and Sylvia), Madison James, Rori Nogee (Pinkalicious), Jessica Lea Patty (The Addams Family), Arbender Robinson (Hair), Brian Charles Rooney (The Threepenny Opera), Brandon Ruckdashel (Co-Ed Confidential), Brian Shaw, Betsy Struxness (Memphis), Shelley Thomas (Brooklyn), Alena Watters (The Addams Family), Correy West (South Pacific) and Kristen Beth Williams (Promises, Promises). The concert will be directed by Laura Pestronk, choreographed by Erin Porvaznika, stage managed by Livia Hill with Emma Peele coordinating production.
The audience can expect to hear 18 songs from Bisen-Hersh's catalog featuring songs from Love Quirks: a song cycle of unconventional devotion, More to Love, The Spickner Spin and a world premiere from his new musical, What If...? Songs will include "Thanksgiving Day", "The Fag Hag Lament", "This is Awkward", "Can You Believe I Was Ever Sad We Broke Up?" and the popular youtube hit, "Hey!".
All the proceeds for the evening will go to Citymeals-on-Wheels, which "raises private funds to ensure no homebound elderly New Yorker will ever go a day without food or human company." The canned goods will be donated to City Harvest, which has "served New York City for more than 25 years" as a "food rescue organization, dedicated to feeding the city's hungry men, women, and children."
For more information or to donate to the charities, please visit:
http//:www.sethbh.com/broadwaycan
http://www.citymeals.org/
http://www.cityharvest.org/
UPDATE: Congratulations to the participants for raising $450 for Citymeals-on-Wheels and 70 lbs of canned food for City Harvest. Well done!
A night of Seth Bisen-Hersh's music performed by Broadway performers!
starring:
KARMINE ALERS (Rent)
SETH BISEN-HERSH
JESSICA LEIGH BROWN (Nine)
LANENE CHARTERS (Mamma Mia)
BRIAN CHILDERS (Danny and Sylvia)
RUSSELL FISCHER (Jersey Boys)
KIMBERLY FAYE GREENBERG (Danny and Sylvia)
MADISON JAMES
RORI NOGEE (Pinkalicious)
JESSICA LEA PATTY (The Addams Family)
ARBENDER ROBINSON (Hair)
BRIAN CHARLES ROONEY (The Threepenny Opera)
BRANDON RUCKDASHEL (Co-Ed Confidential)
BRIAN SHAW
BETSY STRUXNESS (Memphis)
SHELLEY THOMAS (Brooklyn)
ALENA WATTERS (The Addams Family)
CORREY WEST (South Pacific)
KRISTEN BETH WILLIAMS (Promises, Promises)
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 14TH, 8PM
$22 Cover/ 2 Drink Minimum (cash only - $2 off with the donation of a canned good)
Don't Tell Mama, 343 W. 46th St.
Call for reservations after 4: 212-757-0788 or reserve online at donttellmamanyc.com
The 2nd Annual Broadway Can! A Concert for Citymeals-on-Wheels & City Harvest will be presented at Don't Tell Mama, one night only, Sunday, November 14th at 8pm. The evening will be comprised of songs by composer/ lyricist Seth Bisen-Hersh. Bisen-Hersh will be joined on stage by a phenomenal cast including Karmine Alers (Rent), Jessica Leigh Brown (Nine), Lanene Charters (Mamma Mia), Brian Childers (Danny and Sylvia), Russell Fischer (Jersey Boys), Kimberly Faye Greenberg (Danny and Sylvia), Madison James, Rori Nogee (Pinkalicious), Jessica Lea Patty (The Addams Family), Arbender Robinson (Hair), Brian Charles Rooney (The Threepenny Opera), Brandon Ruckdashel (Co-Ed Confidential), Brian Shaw, Betsy Struxness (Memphis), Shelley Thomas (Brooklyn), Alena Watters (The Addams Family), Correy West (South Pacific) and Kristen Beth Williams (Promises, Promises). The concert will be directed by Laura Pestronk, choreographed by Erin Porvaznika, stage managed by Livia Hill with Emma Peele coordinating production.
The audience can expect to hear 18 songs from Bisen-Hersh's catalog featuring songs from Love Quirks: a song cycle of unconventional devotion, More to Love, The Spickner Spin and a world premiere from his new musical, What If...? Songs will include "Thanksgiving Day", "The Fag Hag Lament", "This is Awkward", "Can You Believe I Was Ever Sad We Broke Up?" and the popular youtube hit, "Hey!".
All the proceeds for the evening will go to Citymeals-on-Wheels, which "raises private funds to ensure no homebound elderly New Yorker will ever go a day without food or human company." The canned goods will be donated to City Harvest, which has "served New York City for more than 25 years" as a "food rescue organization, dedicated to feeding the city's hungry men, women, and children."
For more information or to donate to the charities, please visit:
http//:www.sethbh.com/broadwaycan
http://www.citymeals.org/
http://www.cityharvest.org/
UPDATE: Congratulations to the participants for raising $450 for Citymeals-on-Wheels and 70 lbs of canned food for City Harvest. Well done!
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
Interview With Elizabeth Taylor of Finding Elizabeth Taylor
By Byrne Harrison
Elizabeth Claire Taylor is an actress and model whose one-woman show, Finding Elizabeth Taylor, opens tomorrow in New York. I had a chance to talk with her about making a name for herself when she shares one with "The Most Beautiful Woman in the World."
When did you first realize there was another fairly well-known Elizabeth Taylor out there?
From a very early age - probably 5 or 6 I started to register of the name jokes that I was getting. As a little girl, I distinctly remember thinking, "Who is this Richard Burton guy they keep mentioning?" And I did quickly learn that whenever anyone said my name - first and last - a magical ripple of laughter went through the room! This was the 1980's so Elizabeth Taylor was HOT - her perfume, her incredible AIDS activism - a real phoenix rising from the ashes.
What was the genesis of Finding Elizabeth Taylor?
At a dinner party about 5 years ago, one of the guests said to me (after a few glasses of wine), "You have a great story - and you're funny - you should make a movie where you drive to Hollywood and try to find Elizabeth Taylor - and call it, 'Finding Elizabeth Taylor'. A true 'A-ha!' moment. Being a die-hard NYC theatre actress the idea of a one-woman show came naturally. I started recording and transcribing stories from my life as well as researching the other Elizabeth Taylor - which is always fun! The production going up tomorrow will be my 5th run and I truly feel my best one to date.
You say being a die-hard New York actress made you want to do a one-woman show. Tell me a little more about that.
I got into UCLA, Berkley and Northwestern - but getting that purple folder telling me I was accepted into NYU's Tisch School of the Arts was the dream really coming true. I have always had an admiration for the theatre and there was no looking back after I left my home (ironically, Los Angeles!) to come to New York. Even those days when it's freezing, have lost my MetroCard, and feel absolutely exhausted of this city - seeing a wonderful play sends me to euphoric heights and reminds me that I am on my right path. Seeing the greats like Meryl Streep and Patrick Stewart continue to do wonderful NYC theatre affirms it - however hard it may be! And let me tell you, I don't know WHAT is harder that a one-woman show! But at the same time, there is simply nothing more satisfying as it is simply you and your design team - mine has been incredible - molding the show into something special. And I specifically didn't want the show to look like a traditional 'solo show'. Finding Elizabeth Taylor feels like a solo play - there are scene changes - sets - incredible music (We are thinking of releasing a soundtrack! Ha ha!) - I want it to be just as compelling and transformative for the audience as any other piece of theatre. Why a one woman show? As my mentor Camryn Manheim once said, "I wrote a one-woman show because it's the only part I wouldn't be rejected for" and I think that about sums it up!
How did you get involved in modeling?
My first job out of college was an usher on Broadway - I know, the glamor - but really, pretty fabulous as far as actor jobs go - and my dear friend Vinnie turned to me on the stairway one matinee and said, "Honey, you look good - you should be a plus-size model!" I have lived off of the industry for almost 6 years now. And yes, fondly said goodbye to ushering. The next time I work at a Broadway house, I want it to be as an actor!
What advice would you give to someone who is interested in modeling or acting?
Open calls! They are painful but essential. You really need to hear feedback then decide to go from there. Believe me, I thought acting was hard self-esteem-wise until I started modeling! A good personality helps keep the client, but you do need to have the "look" whatever it maybe for them at the time - to get in the door. A great resource is www.plusmodelmagazine.com. And like everything in life, when you believe in what you are doing it does make it easier! The journey I took from plump kid to skinny anorexic NYU student to curvy plus-size model affirmed to me that my destiny in life is to spread this message of size acceptance and self-love. The modeling was an incredible manifestation of that and I am grateful for it each and every day. Come to my show for the whole story!
What other projects do you have coming up?
More productions of Finding Elizabeth Taylor!
Finding Elizabeth Taylor opens Nov. 11, 8:30pm at Theatre Row (www.unitedsolo.org 212-239-6200), and continues on Nov. 15-16, 8pm at Manhattan Theatre Source (www.theatresource.org 866-811-4111).
Elizabeth Claire Taylor is an actress and model whose one-woman show, Finding Elizabeth Taylor, opens tomorrow in New York. I had a chance to talk with her about making a name for herself when she shares one with "The Most Beautiful Woman in the World."When did you first realize there was another fairly well-known Elizabeth Taylor out there?
From a very early age - probably 5 or 6 I started to register of the name jokes that I was getting. As a little girl, I distinctly remember thinking, "Who is this Richard Burton guy they keep mentioning?" And I did quickly learn that whenever anyone said my name - first and last - a magical ripple of laughter went through the room! This was the 1980's so Elizabeth Taylor was HOT - her perfume, her incredible AIDS activism - a real phoenix rising from the ashes.
What was the genesis of Finding Elizabeth Taylor?
At a dinner party about 5 years ago, one of the guests said to me (after a few glasses of wine), "You have a great story - and you're funny - you should make a movie where you drive to Hollywood and try to find Elizabeth Taylor - and call it, 'Finding Elizabeth Taylor'. A true 'A-ha!' moment. Being a die-hard NYC theatre actress the idea of a one-woman show came naturally. I started recording and transcribing stories from my life as well as researching the other Elizabeth Taylor - which is always fun! The production going up tomorrow will be my 5th run and I truly feel my best one to date.
You say being a die-hard New York actress made you want to do a one-woman show. Tell me a little more about that.
I got into UCLA, Berkley and Northwestern - but getting that purple folder telling me I was accepted into NYU's Tisch School of the Arts was the dream really coming true. I have always had an admiration for the theatre and there was no looking back after I left my home (ironically, Los Angeles!) to come to New York. Even those days when it's freezing, have lost my MetroCard, and feel absolutely exhausted of this city - seeing a wonderful play sends me to euphoric heights and reminds me that I am on my right path. Seeing the greats like Meryl Streep and Patrick Stewart continue to do wonderful NYC theatre affirms it - however hard it may be! And let me tell you, I don't know WHAT is harder that a one-woman show! But at the same time, there is simply nothing more satisfying as it is simply you and your design team - mine has been incredible - molding the show into something special. And I specifically didn't want the show to look like a traditional 'solo show'. Finding Elizabeth Taylor feels like a solo play - there are scene changes - sets - incredible music (We are thinking of releasing a soundtrack! Ha ha!) - I want it to be just as compelling and transformative for the audience as any other piece of theatre. Why a one woman show? As my mentor Camryn Manheim once said, "I wrote a one-woman show because it's the only part I wouldn't be rejected for" and I think that about sums it up!
How did you get involved in modeling?
My first job out of college was an usher on Broadway - I know, the glamor - but really, pretty fabulous as far as actor jobs go - and my dear friend Vinnie turned to me on the stairway one matinee and said, "Honey, you look good - you should be a plus-size model!" I have lived off of the industry for almost 6 years now. And yes, fondly said goodbye to ushering. The next time I work at a Broadway house, I want it to be as an actor!
What advice would you give to someone who is interested in modeling or acting?
Open calls! They are painful but essential. You really need to hear feedback then decide to go from there. Believe me, I thought acting was hard self-esteem-wise until I started modeling! A good personality helps keep the client, but you do need to have the "look" whatever it maybe for them at the time - to get in the door. A great resource is www.plusmodelmagazine.com. And like everything in life, when you believe in what you are doing it does make it easier! The journey I took from plump kid to skinny anorexic NYU student to curvy plus-size model affirmed to me that my destiny in life is to spread this message of size acceptance and self-love. The modeling was an incredible manifestation of that and I am grateful for it each and every day. Come to my show for the whole story!
What other projects do you have coming up?
More productions of Finding Elizabeth Taylor!
Finding Elizabeth Taylor opens Nov. 11, 8:30pm at Theatre Row (www.unitedsolo.org 212-239-6200), and continues on Nov. 15-16, 8pm at Manhattan Theatre Source (www.theatresource.org 866-811-4111).
Wednesday Giveaway - NY Neo-Futurist Chapbook
By Byrne Harrison
Courtesy of the NY Neo-Futurists, StageBuzz.com's first Wednesday Giveaway will be a limited edition collection of 30 of the best NY Neo-Futurists' Too Much Light Makes the Baby Go Blind plays from 2008, plus a BONUS insert of Erica Livingston's "Deja Cliffsnotes" as a handy read-along guide. Assembled by a real-live Neo-Futurist!
To enter the giveaway, just leave your e-mail address in the comments (please note, the comments are moderated, so it may take some time for them to appear). Winner will be chosen on Saturday, Nov. 13th, and the winner will be contacted via e-mail.
Courtesy of the NY Neo-Futurists, StageBuzz.com's first Wednesday Giveaway will be a limited edition collection of 30 of the best NY Neo-Futurists' Too Much Light Makes the Baby Go Blind plays from 2008, plus a BONUS insert of Erica Livingston's "Deja Cliffsnotes" as a handy read-along guide. Assembled by a real-live Neo-Futurist!
To enter the giveaway, just leave your e-mail address in the comments (please note, the comments are moderated, so it may take some time for them to appear). Winner will be chosen on Saturday, Nov. 13th, and the winner will be contacted via e-mail.
New York Neo-Futurist Benefit at the Fatty Crab Uptown
By Byrne Harrison
On Monday, November 8th, the New York Neo-Futurists held their Second Annual Benefit at the Fatty Crab Uptown. This year's benefit honored original New York Neo-Futurists and Chicago Neo-Futurist Alums Greg Kotis (Tony Award-winner and creator of Urinetown - The Musical) & Ayun Halliday (author of The Big Rumpus and No Touch Monkey!). The very well-attended event featured remarks by NY Neo-Futurist board member Gary Belsky, Managing Director Rob Neill, and Board President Brad Rolston. In honor of the honorees, the NY Neo-Futurists ensemble performed six Neo-Futurist plays by Kotis and Halliday.
This was followed by a wild live auction featuring a private Neo-Futurist performance, a handyman-for-a-day by company member Joey Rizzolo, party planning by multi-talented Neo Desiree Burch, a fondue dinner for six with Emily Bergyl and Rob Neill, a signature cocktail designed by Fatty Crab Mixologist, Adam Schuman, and a Neo-Futurist workshop for an eductional or professional development event. This live auction, led by auctioneer Jeff Olson, raised several thousand dollars for the company, and was a nice complement to the silent auction which featured diverse items like Pilates classes, a waffle iron, TV memorabilia, theatre tickets and a host of other items donated by NY Neo-Futurists supporters.
The Neo-Futurists' long-running show, Too Much Light Makes the Baby Go Blind, continues every Friday and Saturday night at the Kraine Theater. For more information, visit their website.
On Monday, November 8th, the New York Neo-Futurists held their Second Annual Benefit at the Fatty Crab Uptown. This year's benefit honored original New York Neo-Futurists and Chicago Neo-Futurist Alums Greg Kotis (Tony Award-winner and creator of Urinetown - The Musical) & Ayun Halliday (author of The Big Rumpus and No Touch Monkey!). The very well-attended event featured remarks by NY Neo-Futurist board member Gary Belsky, Managing Director Rob Neill, and Board President Brad Rolston. In honor of the honorees, the NY Neo-Futurists ensemble performed six Neo-Futurist plays by Kotis and Halliday.
This was followed by a wild live auction featuring a private Neo-Futurist performance, a handyman-for-a-day by company member Joey Rizzolo, party planning by multi-talented Neo Desiree Burch, a fondue dinner for six with Emily Bergyl and Rob Neill, a signature cocktail designed by Fatty Crab Mixologist, Adam Schuman, and a Neo-Futurist workshop for an eductional or professional development event. This live auction, led by auctioneer Jeff Olson, raised several thousand dollars for the company, and was a nice complement to the silent auction which featured diverse items like Pilates classes, a waffle iron, TV memorabilia, theatre tickets and a host of other items donated by NY Neo-Futurists supporters.
The Neo-Futurists' long-running show, Too Much Light Makes the Baby Go Blind, continues every Friday and Saturday night at the Kraine Theater. For more information, visit their website.
Tuesday, November 9, 2010
"Name That Tune" Costume Benefit Supports Music Programs For Youth
By Byrne Harrison
Thanks to my day job and my theatre work, I go to a lot of benefits. Without a doubt, this weekend's American Songbook Project's "Name That Tune" Benefit at the Edison Ballroom was one of the best I've attended in quite a while.
Honoring singing legend Margaret Whiting and director Michael Mayer, the "Name That Tune" Benefit featured Broadway stars, eye-catching costumes based on the titles of popular songs, and some top-notch entertainment.
The evening began with a cocktail hour where guests perused an amazing silent auction and some marvelous raffle prizes, while a video played featuring performances from Michael Mayer's productions. This was followed by a juried costume contest. The Celebrity Judges Panel featured five-time Tony Award-winning costume designer William Ivy Long, NY1's Frank DiLella, Jujamcyn President Jordan Roth, casting director Tara Rubin, jazz vocalist Hilary Kole, Time Out NY's theatre and cabaret critic Adam Feldman, and arts patron Frank Skillern. The grand-prize winner (in a costume entitled "Cry Me A River") won a one-week vacation to Paris and the French Riviera courtesy of Radisson Blue Hotels, including round-trip airfare.
The event also included a live auction with hosted by Jim Caruso, the host of Jim Caruso's Cast Party every Monday at Birdland. Caruso proved an able auctioneer, bringing in thousands of dollars for prizes including a vacation to Vancouver's Westin Bayshore Hotel and an award-winning wilderness retreat on Vancouver Island, a nine-day vacation in Switzerland, and a private performance for the winner and 30 friends by Brooke Shields and John McDaniel. The bidding was spirited . . . very, very spirited.
Following the auction, actress Maureen Moore introduced the tribute Margaret Whiting which highlighted Whiting's many contributions to music during her decades-long recording career. The tribute featured a haunting interpretation of "My Foolish Heart" by Nellie McKay.
Honoree Michael Mayer was introduced by actress Jane Kaczmarek and Tony Award-winning librettist and lyricist Dick Scanlan (Scanlan's stories were priceless), and featured Kate Baldwin singing "Look What Happened to Mabel" and a beautiful mash-up (to use the current term) of "Look to the Rainbow" and "Somewhere Over the Rainbow."
President of the board of directors of The American Songbook Project, Michael Putman Estwanik stated, "The evening's honorees, Margaret Whiting and Michael Mayer, emblemize the scope of our organization's cultural mission. It is our belief that American popular songs are our country's unique contribution to world culture. With so many music programs in our schools being drastically cut, our role is becoming essential if we want to foster an appreciation of American popular songs among the young."
Since its founding in 1999, The American Songbook Project has been bringing Broadway and top cabaret talent into New York City schools so that young people can hear great songs, both classic and contemporary, by American songwriters.
I offer the following photos as proof that, 1) there were some amazing costumes and 2) I am not a photographer. There was a professional photographer at the event; as soon as I find a link to those photos, I will pass it along.
Thanks to my day job and my theatre work, I go to a lot of benefits. Without a doubt, this weekend's American Songbook Project's "Name That Tune" Benefit at the Edison Ballroom was one of the best I've attended in quite a while.
Honoring singing legend Margaret Whiting and director Michael Mayer, the "Name That Tune" Benefit featured Broadway stars, eye-catching costumes based on the titles of popular songs, and some top-notch entertainment.
The evening began with a cocktail hour where guests perused an amazing silent auction and some marvelous raffle prizes, while a video played featuring performances from Michael Mayer's productions. This was followed by a juried costume contest. The Celebrity Judges Panel featured five-time Tony Award-winning costume designer William Ivy Long, NY1's Frank DiLella, Jujamcyn President Jordan Roth, casting director Tara Rubin, jazz vocalist Hilary Kole, Time Out NY's theatre and cabaret critic Adam Feldman, and arts patron Frank Skillern. The grand-prize winner (in a costume entitled "Cry Me A River") won a one-week vacation to Paris and the French Riviera courtesy of Radisson Blue Hotels, including round-trip airfare.
The event also included a live auction with hosted by Jim Caruso, the host of Jim Caruso's Cast Party every Monday at Birdland. Caruso proved an able auctioneer, bringing in thousands of dollars for prizes including a vacation to Vancouver's Westin Bayshore Hotel and an award-winning wilderness retreat on Vancouver Island, a nine-day vacation in Switzerland, and a private performance for the winner and 30 friends by Brooke Shields and John McDaniel. The bidding was spirited . . . very, very spirited.
Following the auction, actress Maureen Moore introduced the tribute Margaret Whiting which highlighted Whiting's many contributions to music during her decades-long recording career. The tribute featured a haunting interpretation of "My Foolish Heart" by Nellie McKay.
Honoree Michael Mayer was introduced by actress Jane Kaczmarek and Tony Award-winning librettist and lyricist Dick Scanlan (Scanlan's stories were priceless), and featured Kate Baldwin singing "Look What Happened to Mabel" and a beautiful mash-up (to use the current term) of "Look to the Rainbow" and "Somewhere Over the Rainbow."
President of the board of directors of The American Songbook Project, Michael Putman Estwanik stated, "The evening's honorees, Margaret Whiting and Michael Mayer, emblemize the scope of our organization's cultural mission. It is our belief that American popular songs are our country's unique contribution to world culture. With so many music programs in our schools being drastically cut, our role is becoming essential if we want to foster an appreciation of American popular songs among the young."
Since its founding in 1999, The American Songbook Project has been bringing Broadway and top cabaret talent into New York City schools so that young people can hear great songs, both classic and contemporary, by American songwriters.
I offer the following photos as proof that, 1) there were some amazing costumes and 2) I am not a photographer. There was a professional photographer at the event; as soon as I find a link to those photos, I will pass it along.
Lifebeat Benefit Concert Celebrates Carole King
On November 29th, artists and musicians will unite for BROTHER, BROTHER: KING FOR A DAY, a special evening to benefit Lifebeat at Comix. Performers including Lala Brooks, Ann Hampton Callaway, Grayce Coviello, Colton Ford, Sherri Lewis, Stewart Lewis, Gregory Nalbone, John Pagano, Katy Pfaffl, Barbara Porteus, MarTina Vidmar, Julie Waldman-Stiel and Liz Callaway will offer their interpretations of the songs of CAROLE KING. The inspiration for this event, which will be hosted by Matt Walton (All My Children, One Life to Live) and feature musical direction by Jimmy Horan, comes from Ms. King’s song “Brother, Brother” from her 1971 album Music. The song was her heartfelt response to Marvin Gaye’s “What’s Goin’ On” and is still relevant today.
BROTHER, BROTHER: KING FOR A DAY aims to raise awareness of World AIDS Day. First observed in 1988, World AIDS Day (WAD) occurs each December 1st and has served to raise awareness about the epidemic, honor those who have died, focus attention on issues that are key to a successful response, and inspire positive action. “We are grateful to all the artists and individuals who are donating their time and talents to this incredible event. Music has the power to heal and inspire and you’ll see that at BROTHER, BROTHER: KING FOR A DAY,” said Ben Wymer, Interim Executive Director at Lifebeat.
Tickets for BROTHER, BROTHER: KING FOR A DAY are available at:
www.Lifebeat.org.
$40 General Admission
$60 Reserved Prime Seating
$100 VIP (Premium seating + VIP Barefoot Wine & Bubbly Reception + $25 Gift Certificate to Platinum Salon)
Sponsors for the evening include: Comix, Barefoot Wine & Bubbly, Platinum Salon
For a complete listing of artists and bios at:
http://www.love-out-loud.com/events.html
About LIFEBEAT
Lifebeat is a nonprofit that uses the power of music and the music industry to help educate young people about HIV/AIDS prevention. For more than seventeen years, Lifebeat has helped to mobilize the talents and resources of the music industry to raise awareness and funds, and to provide support to the HIV-positive community.
Lifebeat relies on a small but dedicated staff and an active Board of Directors to carry out our mission, as well as a wonderful group of volunteers and a network of national AIDS service organizations (ASO’s) to educate young people through our outreach efforts.
About COMIX
Opened in September 2006 in Manhattan's booming Meatpacking District, Comix has quickly defined itself as the premier comedy club in New York City. Comix is Zagat’s highest rated comedy venue, was dubbed “one of the top six clubs in the country” by the Hollywood Reporter and has also been named the top headliner club in New York City by both GrandLife and Digital City. In addition to outstanding comedy shows, Comix is also the ideal venue to enjoy great drinks, food and private events with options for every taste and budget. Our distinctive menu and VIP dinner packages will delight even the most discriminating diner, so come on an empty stomach and enjoy a meal with your laughs.
BROTHER, BROTHER: KING FOR A DAY aims to raise awareness of World AIDS Day. First observed in 1988, World AIDS Day (WAD) occurs each December 1st and has served to raise awareness about the epidemic, honor those who have died, focus attention on issues that are key to a successful response, and inspire positive action. “We are grateful to all the artists and individuals who are donating their time and talents to this incredible event. Music has the power to heal and inspire and you’ll see that at BROTHER, BROTHER: KING FOR A DAY,” said Ben Wymer, Interim Executive Director at Lifebeat.
Tickets for BROTHER, BROTHER: KING FOR A DAY are available at:
www.Lifebeat.org.
$40 General Admission
$60 Reserved Prime Seating
$100 VIP (Premium seating + VIP Barefoot Wine & Bubbly Reception + $25 Gift Certificate to Platinum Salon)
Sponsors for the evening include: Comix, Barefoot Wine & Bubbly, Platinum Salon
For a complete listing of artists and bios at:
http://www.love-out-loud.com/events.html
About LIFEBEAT
Lifebeat is a nonprofit that uses the power of music and the music industry to help educate young people about HIV/AIDS prevention. For more than seventeen years, Lifebeat has helped to mobilize the talents and resources of the music industry to raise awareness and funds, and to provide support to the HIV-positive community.
Lifebeat relies on a small but dedicated staff and an active Board of Directors to carry out our mission, as well as a wonderful group of volunteers and a network of national AIDS service organizations (ASO’s) to educate young people through our outreach efforts.
About COMIX
Opened in September 2006 in Manhattan's booming Meatpacking District, Comix has quickly defined itself as the premier comedy club in New York City. Comix is Zagat’s highest rated comedy venue, was dubbed “one of the top six clubs in the country” by the Hollywood Reporter and has also been named the top headliner club in New York City by both GrandLife and Digital City. In addition to outstanding comedy shows, Comix is also the ideal venue to enjoy great drinks, food and private events with options for every taste and budget. Our distinctive menu and VIP dinner packages will delight even the most discriminating diner, so come on an empty stomach and enjoy a meal with your laughs.
Signature Theatre Company's 20th Anniversary Cocktail Party and Gala Brings Out the Stars
By Byrne Harrison
Photos by Dave Allocca for Dewar’s
Dewar's Signature hosted The Signature Theatre Company’s 20th Anniversary Cocktail Party & Gala in New York City. Held at Espace, the evening honored playwright Tony Kushner. Attendees including Signature Theatre board member Ed Norton, Modern Family's Ty Burrell, Zachary Quinto, Paul Dano and Zoey Kazan enjoyed specialty Dewar’s cocktails while getting an exclusive preview of Frank Gehry’s models for Signature Center, the Signature Theatre Company’s new home, scheduled to open in 2012.
Photos by Dave Allocca for Dewar’s
Dewar's Signature hosted The Signature Theatre Company’s 20th Anniversary Cocktail Party & Gala in New York City. Held at Espace, the evening honored playwright Tony Kushner. Attendees including Signature Theatre board member Ed Norton, Modern Family's Ty Burrell, Zachary Quinto, Paul Dano and Zoey Kazan enjoyed specialty Dewar’s cocktails while getting an exclusive preview of Frank Gehry’s models for Signature Center, the Signature Theatre Company’s new home, scheduled to open in 2012.
That Theatre Show to Benefit Food Bank
Come see amazing Broadway performers give back to the Food Bank!
Broadway lovers are invited to join Oscar Andrew Hammerstein III (“The Hammersteins: A Musical Theatre Family”) and Bill Dawes (“Lombardi”) to be among the first guests to appear on a new Broadway-themed talk show launching November 15, 2010 at Manhattan’s Iguana New York at 8:00 p.m. Also there will be special performances from Broadway’s Russell Fisher (Jersey Boys), Kelly Grant (Company) and Correy West (South Pacific). Musicians will include Brad Gardner on piano, John Gundrumon guitar, Michael Pagnotta on alto saxophone, and RJ Rabin on drums.
The new talk show, entitled That Theatre Show, seeks to chronicle the thoughts and stories of various actors, directors, composers and others that make New York’s theater community world-renowned. The show will contain both be interviews and performances. The show is produced by Neal Bennington (owner of NealB.tv) and Sahar Helmy.
In an effort to give back to the community, the event will also contribute partial proceeds from the maiden episode to the Food Bank For New York City. The Food Bank For NYC addresses the growing needs of people seeking emergency food assistance in New York City. Over the years, the Food Bank has experienced dramatic growth in the areas of food distribution, operations, programs and research to better serve the network of community food programs — and ultimately the people in New York City who rely on the food they provide. There will also be Broadway-themed raffle items to benefit the Food Bank, including a one-hour vocal coaching session with Broadway vocal coach Michael Lavine, Broadway posters and playbills. Bennington states: "The purpose of this new endeavor is to bring awareness, through different charitable organizations, and show that theater is unlike any other experience."
Oscar Andrew Hammerstein, the grandson of the late lyricist-librettist Oscar Hammerstein II, will discuss his new book “The Hammersteins: A Musical Theatre Family”. This is the only biography of the musical theatre legends written by a family member. Oscar “Andy” Hammerstein (Oscar Hammerstein II’s grandson), gives readers unprecedented access to family archives of art, photographs, theatre blueprints, letters, programs, patents, and more, and makes this a profoundly rich celebration of musical theatre in America. He presents a multi-layered portrait of the Hammerstein legacy. He is a painter, writer, lecturer, and family historian. He has devoted much of his life to studying and preserving his family’s heritage and their contribution to American culture. He lectures frequently at universities, institutes, and theatrical and civic organizations on the Hammerstein family’s pivotal role in shaping the development of musical theatre and popular entertainment in this country from the 1860s to the present. He is an adjunct professor at Columbia University, teaching graduate level New York City theatre history.
Bill Dawes can currently be seen on Broadway playing “Paul Hornung" in Lombardi. As a stage actor, Bill’s first role was on Broadway with Sigourney Weaver and Christopher Durang in the play Sex and Longing, which was followed by Gross Indecency in which he originated the role of "Lord Alfred Douglas". He is an actor/comic/writer. As an actor, he has appeared in several award-winning independent films, including Adam, Evenhand and Fiona and an acting/writing role in the DVD cult hit I Hope They Serve Beer in Hell. On TV, Bill has been on several hit shows, including Sex and the City, OZ, Law and Order: Criminal Intent, Damages, All My Children and One Life to Live. As a comic, Bill has performed all over the U.S.A. and world including crowds of over 8,000 international troops at bases in Baghdad. Bill has been published in several magazines and an hour comedy special he wrote with Jamie Kennedy, Uncomfortable, will be seen on Showtime this fall. Bill performs every Friday & Saturday 10pm shows at Times Square Comedy Club.
Russell Fischer is currently making his Broadway debut as “Joey” and an understudy for the role of Frankie Valli in Jersey Boys. Other credits include the ’98-’99 National Tour of Big – The Musical (Billy Kopecki), Chautauqua Opera’s The Music Man (Tommy Djilas), Paper Mill Playhouse’s Children of Eden (Young Abel u/s) and The Sound of Music (Kurt) starring Debby Boone.
Kelly Grant recently finished playing lead role of Christine Daaé at select performances in the Broadway National Touring Company of Hal Prince’s production of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s The Phantom of the Opera. Broadway audiences will remember Kelly in the 2007 Tony-award winning revival of Company, starring Raúl Esparza and directed by John Doyle, where she played the role of “Kathy”. Kelly has also been seen in numerous musicals nationally including Show Boat, directed by Harold Prince; The Secret Garden, South Pacific, and My Fair Lady.
Correy West has been seen Broadway in the Tony-winning musical South Pacific (Lincoln Center Revival) as well as Off-Broadway in Shades of Harlem. Correy’s credits also include 42nd Street (Tour), The Radio City Christmas Spectacular; NY: Lunch (NYMF), An Evening with Jason Robert Brown (Cooper Union); Regional: The Producers (Westchester Broadway Theatre), Paint Your Wagon (Pioneer Theatre Company), Dreamgirls (Prince Music Theater/North Carolina Theatre), Miss Saigon (Lenape Regional Performing Arts Center), The Wizard of Oz (North Carolina Theatre).
Tickets are $12.00 for advanced reservations, and $15.00 at the door (plus a one drink minimum -CASH ONLY). That Theatre Show’s November 15th performance can be purchased by calling (212) 765 5454. The Iguana New York is located at 240 West 54th Street, New York, New York.
Visit www.thattheatreshow.com for details.
Broadway lovers are invited to join Oscar Andrew Hammerstein III (“The Hammersteins: A Musical Theatre Family”) and Bill Dawes (“Lombardi”) to be among the first guests to appear on a new Broadway-themed talk show launching November 15, 2010 at Manhattan’s Iguana New York at 8:00 p.m. Also there will be special performances from Broadway’s Russell Fisher (Jersey Boys), Kelly Grant (Company) and Correy West (South Pacific). Musicians will include Brad Gardner on piano, John Gundrumon guitar, Michael Pagnotta on alto saxophone, and RJ Rabin on drums.
The new talk show, entitled That Theatre Show, seeks to chronicle the thoughts and stories of various actors, directors, composers and others that make New York’s theater community world-renowned. The show will contain both be interviews and performances. The show is produced by Neal Bennington (owner of NealB.tv) and Sahar Helmy.
In an effort to give back to the community, the event will also contribute partial proceeds from the maiden episode to the Food Bank For New York City. The Food Bank For NYC addresses the growing needs of people seeking emergency food assistance in New York City. Over the years, the Food Bank has experienced dramatic growth in the areas of food distribution, operations, programs and research to better serve the network of community food programs — and ultimately the people in New York City who rely on the food they provide. There will also be Broadway-themed raffle items to benefit the Food Bank, including a one-hour vocal coaching session with Broadway vocal coach Michael Lavine, Broadway posters and playbills. Bennington states: "The purpose of this new endeavor is to bring awareness, through different charitable organizations, and show that theater is unlike any other experience."
Oscar Andrew Hammerstein, the grandson of the late lyricist-librettist Oscar Hammerstein II, will discuss his new book “The Hammersteins: A Musical Theatre Family”. This is the only biography of the musical theatre legends written by a family member. Oscar “Andy” Hammerstein (Oscar Hammerstein II’s grandson), gives readers unprecedented access to family archives of art, photographs, theatre blueprints, letters, programs, patents, and more, and makes this a profoundly rich celebration of musical theatre in America. He presents a multi-layered portrait of the Hammerstein legacy. He is a painter, writer, lecturer, and family historian. He has devoted much of his life to studying and preserving his family’s heritage and their contribution to American culture. He lectures frequently at universities, institutes, and theatrical and civic organizations on the Hammerstein family’s pivotal role in shaping the development of musical theatre and popular entertainment in this country from the 1860s to the present. He is an adjunct professor at Columbia University, teaching graduate level New York City theatre history.
Bill Dawes can currently be seen on Broadway playing “Paul Hornung" in Lombardi. As a stage actor, Bill’s first role was on Broadway with Sigourney Weaver and Christopher Durang in the play Sex and Longing, which was followed by Gross Indecency in which he originated the role of "Lord Alfred Douglas". He is an actor/comic/writer. As an actor, he has appeared in several award-winning independent films, including Adam, Evenhand and Fiona and an acting/writing role in the DVD cult hit I Hope They Serve Beer in Hell. On TV, Bill has been on several hit shows, including Sex and the City, OZ, Law and Order: Criminal Intent, Damages, All My Children and One Life to Live. As a comic, Bill has performed all over the U.S.A. and world including crowds of over 8,000 international troops at bases in Baghdad. Bill has been published in several magazines and an hour comedy special he wrote with Jamie Kennedy, Uncomfortable, will be seen on Showtime this fall. Bill performs every Friday & Saturday 10pm shows at Times Square Comedy Club.
Russell Fischer is currently making his Broadway debut as “Joey” and an understudy for the role of Frankie Valli in Jersey Boys. Other credits include the ’98-’99 National Tour of Big – The Musical (Billy Kopecki), Chautauqua Opera’s The Music Man (Tommy Djilas), Paper Mill Playhouse’s Children of Eden (Young Abel u/s) and The Sound of Music (Kurt) starring Debby Boone.
Kelly Grant recently finished playing lead role of Christine Daaé at select performances in the Broadway National Touring Company of Hal Prince’s production of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s The Phantom of the Opera. Broadway audiences will remember Kelly in the 2007 Tony-award winning revival of Company, starring Raúl Esparza and directed by John Doyle, where she played the role of “Kathy”. Kelly has also been seen in numerous musicals nationally including Show Boat, directed by Harold Prince; The Secret Garden, South Pacific, and My Fair Lady.
Correy West has been seen Broadway in the Tony-winning musical South Pacific (Lincoln Center Revival) as well as Off-Broadway in Shades of Harlem. Correy’s credits also include 42nd Street (Tour), The Radio City Christmas Spectacular; NY: Lunch (NYMF), An Evening with Jason Robert Brown (Cooper Union); Regional: The Producers (Westchester Broadway Theatre), Paint Your Wagon (Pioneer Theatre Company), Dreamgirls (Prince Music Theater/North Carolina Theatre), Miss Saigon (Lenape Regional Performing Arts Center), The Wizard of Oz (North Carolina Theatre).
Tickets are $12.00 for advanced reservations, and $15.00 at the door (plus a one drink minimum -CASH ONLY). That Theatre Show’s November 15th performance can be purchased by calling (212) 765 5454. The Iguana New York is located at 240 West 54th Street, New York, New York.
Visit www.thattheatreshow.com for details.
Seussical Coming to Brooklyn Center for the Performing Arts January 30th
Brooklyn Center for the Performing Arts at Brooklyn College continues its 2010-2011 Target FamilyFun series with Theatreworks USA's production of Seussical on Sunday, January 30, 2011 at 2pm.
Dr. Seuss's beloved stories collide in this unforgettable musical adaptation of the original Broadway production. Horton the Elephant, Gertrude McFuzz, and of course The Cat in the Hat find themselves intertwined in a crazy adventure, in which the power of imagination saves the day. This adaptation for young audiences features thirteen actors and enhanced production values. Music is by Stephen Flaherty; lyrics by Lynn Ahrens; book by Ahrens & Flaherty; co-conceived by Ahrens, Flaherty and Eric Idle; based on the works of Dr. Seuss; directed and choreographed by Marcia Milgrom Dodge.
Brooklyn Center for the Performing Arts' 2010-2011 Target FamilyFun Series also includes The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe (Sunday, April 10, 2011 at 2pm) and American Family Theater's production of Beauty and the Beast (Sunday, May 22, 2011 at 2pm). All tickets for Target FamilyFun Series performances are $6 in advance, $7 at the door.
Brooklyn Center for the Performing Arts' 2010-2011 Target FamilyFun Series is sponsored by Target.
Seussical
Presented by TheatreWorks USA
Sunday, January 30, 2011 at 2PM
Tickets: $6 ($7 at door)
Brooklyn Center for the Performing Arts
Walt Whitman Theatre at Brooklyn College
2 train to Flatbush Avenue / on-site paid parking available
Running time: approx 60 minutes
Recommended for ages 4 and up.
Online orders: BrooklynCenterOnline.org
Box Office: (718) 951-4500, Tuesday - Saturday, 1pm - 6pm
Groups of 15 or more: (718) 951-4600, ext. 33
Dr. Seuss's beloved stories collide in this unforgettable musical adaptation of the original Broadway production. Horton the Elephant, Gertrude McFuzz, and of course The Cat in the Hat find themselves intertwined in a crazy adventure, in which the power of imagination saves the day. This adaptation for young audiences features thirteen actors and enhanced production values. Music is by Stephen Flaherty; lyrics by Lynn Ahrens; book by Ahrens & Flaherty; co-conceived by Ahrens, Flaherty and Eric Idle; based on the works of Dr. Seuss; directed and choreographed by Marcia Milgrom Dodge.
Brooklyn Center for the Performing Arts' 2010-2011 Target FamilyFun Series also includes The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe (Sunday, April 10, 2011 at 2pm) and American Family Theater's production of Beauty and the Beast (Sunday, May 22, 2011 at 2pm). All tickets for Target FamilyFun Series performances are $6 in advance, $7 at the door.
Brooklyn Center for the Performing Arts' 2010-2011 Target FamilyFun Series is sponsored by Target.
Seussical
Presented by TheatreWorks USA
Sunday, January 30, 2011 at 2PM
Tickets: $6 ($7 at door)
Brooklyn Center for the Performing Arts
Walt Whitman Theatre at Brooklyn College
2 train to Flatbush Avenue / on-site paid parking available
Running time: approx 60 minutes
Recommended for ages 4 and up.
Online orders: BrooklynCenterOnline.org
Box Office: (718) 951-4500, Tuesday - Saturday, 1pm - 6pm
Groups of 15 or more: (718) 951-4600, ext. 33
Eryc Taylor Dance To Perform Four-Night Engagement at Joyce SoHo, November 10-13
Eryc Taylor Dance Four-Night Engagement at the Joyce SoHo November 10-13, 2010
For more information or to order tickets, visit their website.
Midwinter Madness Seeks One-Act Plays
Midwinter Madness Seeks One-Act Plays for Feb. 2011
Dates for the Festival are Feb. 7 - 27, 2011.
Plays should run 30 to 60 min. Scripts should be submitted in standard playscript format.*
Any subject matter okay, including musicals.
The Festival will not combine shorter plays to make full programs.
Production requirements must be minimal: rehearsal cubes, a table or two, some chairs (all provided by the Festival), and your own props, which you must bring with you and take home for every performance.
Tickets will be $12-15. There are no fees. The Festival takes the door.
There are no comps. There will be a discounted price for Festival participants to see other shows. Shows' staff may see their own shows for free, seating permitting. These comps may not be transferred to anyone else.
Shows must be non-Equity. No showcases or Equity waivers, please!
The Festival will provide a press agent, venue manager, lighting designer, and box-office manager. You must provide your own board op.
While the Festival provides the venue and staff, you must provide the production. Roy Arias Studios may offer discounts on rehearsal space, at its own discretion.
There will be a 2.5-hr tech rehearsal, during business hours Mon. thru Fri.
All performances will take place from 6 pm to 11 pm weekdays or 11 am to 11 pm weekends.
Each show will receive at least 3 performances, probably all in the same week. Shows that sell the most tickets before Jan. 2011 may receive more performances.
The Festival will provide a program "wrapper": you must provide a program specific to your show, and insert it into the wrapper for distribution to your patrons.
There will be a juried award ceremony after the Festival, with cash awards for the most popular plays.
*12 pt Times Roman; character names in the middle on their own line; line spaces between speeches and stage directions; indented stage directions; 1" margins all around.
To submit a script, send it as an attachment in .doc or .pdf format to john.chatterton@gmail.com. Any questions, just e-mail.
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