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Dancing in the Street

By Joseph Cillo

A Sizzling Summer Block Party

A High Energy Summer Celebration with Sparkling Performances

Transcendence Theatre Company’s Dancing in the Street offers a vibrant mix of classic hits, lighting up Sonoma’s Field of Dreams from August 15-18, 2024. This show, set against the backdrop of summer in Sonoma, is a celebration of music that spans generations, bringing together beloved tunes from Motown, Elton John, Whitney Houston, and more.

A Talented Cast That Delivers

The cast is a strong ensemble of performers from Broadway and beyond. Becca Andrews makes a noteworthy debut, bringing energy and enthusiasm to her performance. Ginger Bess, with her experience in vintage jazz, anchors the show with a solid presence. Melanie Fernandez, recently seen in Natasha, Pierre, and the Great Comet of 1812, continues to impress with her vocal talents, adding depth to the ensemble. Patrick Garr, a veteran of Mean Girls and Hamilton, brings his characteristic charisma, and Elliott Litherland displays a commendable range in his roles.

Erin Maya’s powerful rendition of Whitney Houston’s “I Wanna Dance with Somebody” is a standout moment, showcasing her vocal strength and stage presence. Vasthy Mompoint, last seen in Hooray for Hollywood, adds a vibrant and dynamic touch to the production. David L. Murray Jr. and Devin L. Roberts contribute solid performances, while Valerie Salgado shines both as a performer and in her role as associate choreographer, helping to craft the show’s fluid and engaging choreography.

Music and Choreography that Captivates

Directed and choreographed by Eric Jackson, the show moves effortlessly from one iconic hit to the next. The creative team, including music director Nicolas Perez and lighting designer Paul Hudson, enhances the overall experience, creating a polished production that doesn’t overshadow the performers but instead complements them. Mark Zuckerman’s sound design ensures that the music and vocals resonate clearly with the audience.

The choreography is lively and well-suited to the music, capturing the essence of each era while keeping the audience engaged. The ensemble works together seamlessly, creating a cohesive and energetic performance that carries the audience along with it.

A Nostalgic Musical Journey

The musical selections in Dancing in the Street are carefully chosen to appeal to a wide audience. The Motown medley is a particular highlight, offering a nostalgic journey through some of the most beloved songs of the era. Elton John’s classics are given a fresh interpretation, and Whitney Houston’s hits, especially “I Wanna Dance with Somebody,” bring the house down.

Final Thoughts – Act Now!

Dancing in the Street is a delightful summer event, offering a mix of nostalgia and high-energy performances that are sure to entertain. While the show may not break new ground, it provides a thoroughly enjoyable evening that will resonate with fans of classic music. With only a few performances left from August 15-18, this is a show worth catching if you’re in Sonoma. It’s a spirited celebration of music that brings the community together.

For tickets and more information, visit Transcendence Theatre Company.

 

“Der Rosenkavalier” at Santa Fe Opera Festival 2024

By Carol Benet

“Der Rosenkavalier” at Sante Fe Opera

Carol Benet

Richard Strauss’ “Der Rosenkavalier” with the libretto by Hugo von Hofmannsthal at Sante Fe Opera festival 2024 could not have had a better production.  The fantastic third act is a deconstruction and amplification to the original.  The opera is the story of an aging aristocrat, the 32 year old  Marshallin (Rachel Willis-Sørensen), who is having an affair with a 17 year old Count Octavian (Paula Murrihy) and its aftermath.  

Aging and the passing  of time are the main themes of Strauss’ famous opera of 1911  The tale is timeless and the portrayal of Viennese society of the time historical.  The boorish uncle of the Marshallin Baron Ochs (Matthew Rose) pursues women of all levels of society and here he chases the maid Mariandel, non other than Octavian dressed as a woman, and Sophie (Ying Fang), the rich daughter of Herr von Faninal (Zachary Nelson).  Och’s marriage to Sophie would satisfy both him and Faninal wishing to elevate family’s social standing.  Baron Ochs, like many nobles, is in need of money.

“Der Rosenkavalier” is a four hour opera with one long intermission needed to change the set for the 3rd act.   Gary McCann’s set is brilliantly conceived and executed along with his fanciful costumes of traditional aristocracy in wild abandon of party goers. The third act is a dream scene when all the former pregnant victims and the illegitimate  children of the predatory Ochs come back to haunt him.  It is in a claustrophobic room set in two psychedelic colored neon-framed boxes.  Ochs is imprisoned in this a room with all his victims from which he cannot escape. Matthew Rose’s portrayal of Ochs with his excellent bass voice and comic acting  is one of the highlights of this production.  He is perfectly played as an overweight, toupee wearing bore whose name Ochs (“ox” in German) is appropriate.   Maybe Strauss is turning in his grave at this re-enactment of Act 3 but the audience loved it.

The correct coupling takes place at the end when Sophie and Octavian are together yet the Marschshallin blesses them both in this inevitable end of her affair. Sørensen aria’s and duets with Octavian are wonderful in her strong soprano voice and fine acting.  Ying Fang’s voice is gorgeous as Sophie and Rose’s acting and singing ability as Ochs enlivens the entire production.

Conductor Karina Canellakis presented a lively rendition of the music that was fun loving and at time filled with pathos as the Marschallin reflects on her life.  Bruno Ravella’s direction of this complicated and demanding opera is excellently creative.  I hope the production moves on to other venues.  It should.

“Der Rosenkavalier”  runs through August 15, 2024 at the Sante Fe Opera.  

Santa Fe Opera 2024

By Carol Benet

Sante Fe Opera Festival 2024

Carol Benet

In the middle of the most gorgeous scenery in the United States, with art everywhere and the dozens of restaurants with delicious food, Sante Fe in northern New Mexico boasts of one of the most important opera events in the world, the Sante Fe Opera Festival.

Operas takes place July and August in an architecturally splendid outdoor auditorium seating more than 2000 (Polshek Partnership Architects and acousticians Purcell & Noppe & Associates). Some operas are timed so that they start just before and during sunset so the wonderful  open background on the stage for two operas this season is filled with rich colors of the western vista introducing the universal and timeless beauty of nature.  

The 2024 season features five operas with one world premiere and four beloved classics.  “The Righteous” with music by Gregory Spears and libretto by former poet laureate Tracy K. Smith, is a slog,  It is over three hours of a story that tries to incorporate too many themes drawn from the 1980’s such as feminism, the war on drugs, Mid-East conflict, AIDS, political power grabs, unfaithful husbands, hypocritical preachers, social inequality and the such.  The opera needed a serious editing job that would let it focus on one or only a few of these important themes.

But the production was in place with conductor Jordan de Souza, director Kevin Newbury, set designer Mimi Lien and costumes by Devario Simmons, Japhy Weideman lighting designer and chorus master Susanne Sheston.

Both the wife and budding feminist Michele (Jennifer Johnson Cano),  the countertenor Jonathan (Anthony Roth Costanzo) with his closeted love for the preacher showed both vocal and acting expertise.  The opera deals with the question of who is “righteous” and the spiritual search for truth and good these ordinary characters seek.  The production borders on the soap opera level.

Two of the other operas in the season were the kind that make the Sante Fe Festival famous.  The comic “The Elixir of Love” by Gaetano Donizetti has an update to the 1940s in a small Italian town.  The simple story of an itinerant salesman Dulcamara (Alfredo Daza) who peddles a remedy that he claims can cure everything.  The poor car mechanic Nemorino (Jonah Hoskins) is in love with Adina (Yaritza Véliz) and buys the phony love potion.  Adina falls for the army bigwig Belcore (Luke Sutliff)  and they are to marry when Nemorino, who has inherited a fortune, intervenes and the right couple is united.  

Director Stephen Lawless has brought this favorite classic comic opera to a new level with a flashy red car from the period and characters flitting around in real motorcycles.  Ashley Martin-Davis’s costumes and set are colorful and fun.  Roberto Kalb’s conducting of the fine orchestra and Susanne Sheston’s choral direction are top-knot.

Also during the season is the favorite Verdi’s “La Traviata” which was a pure pleasure.  The  Armenian soprano Mané Galoyanb as Violetta was as fine a singer as actress in this heart throbbing story  of a courtesan in love with Alfredo (Bekhzod Davronov) whose father Giorgio (Alfredo Daza) intervenes to save the marriage prospects of his daughter.  Galoyanb has a bright future ahead.

“La Traviata” is filled with beautiful areas and ensembles throughout.  The director Louisa Muller has brought a new staging (set and costumes by Christopher Oram) placing the opera in Paris of the 30s before the Nazi occupation when everyone was in a party mode.  The parties here are wild as if the era was coming to an end as it was. Choreographer Matthew Steffens helps with the lively fun-loving scenes.  Conductor Corrado Rovaris is masterful in bringing out the joyful scenes as well as the deeply pathetic ones.  

Two more operas “Der Rosenkavalier” and “Don Giovanni” are on the roster for the Sante Fe Opera Festival that ends on August 24. 2024.

santefeopera.org or 1 800-280-4654
505-986-5900

 

“Don Giovanni” at Santa Fe Opera

By Carol Benet

“Don Giovanni” at Santa Fe Opera

Carol Benet

One of the most popular opera’s ever written, Mozart’s “Don Giovanni”, is currently through August 23, 2024 at the  Santa Fe Opera. 

With an undated concept by director Stephen Barlow  and set and costume designer Yannis Tavoris, it is placed in Victorian London.  Their idea to make it  a sort of Oscar Wildean “Picture of Dorian Gray” yet the idea is only minimally achieved.  The set, artist painting a portrait and several of Giovanni on the wall refer to the novel. And If you are close to the stage, you can see  the portrait’s age changes at times.  I was in mid-auditorium and could not see this.  

Nevertheless, the success of  the novel idea or not, this production was a great success.  It was amazing that Rachel Willis-Sørensen could step into the demanding role of Donna Anna at the last moment.  This fabulous soprano beautifully sang the grilling 4 hour performance of “Der Rosenkavalier” that I saw the night before.  As Anna in Giovanni she was equally spectacular.

“Don Giovanni” is a Don Juan story with a rapacious Don (Ryan Speedo Green) chasing anything wearing a skirt.  His servant Leporello’s (Nicholas Newton) famous aria recounts the  lists of his conquests, country by country, ending with Spain -over one thousand.

As it opens, Giovanni is running away from Donna Anna whose father has saved her from an attack.  The father Il Commendatore (Soloman Howard) chases Giovanni and is shot dead.  The rest of the opera is more conquests and eventual punishment for the Giovanni’s many rapes and the murder.

The action takes place on a rotating stage with scenes in the lobby and the outside entrance to the tony Savoy Hotel plus Giovanni’s portrait laden apartment.   Donna Elvira (Rachael Wilson), one of his conquests, pines for Giovanni throughout and there is much interaction between her and the Don and later Leporello with whom the Don has exchanged clothes to escape being caught.  

The Don also desires the servant girl Zerlina (Liv Redpath) on the night of her wedding to Masetto (William Guanbo Su).  He could do this legally due to  “le droit du seigneur”.  Donna Anna’s fiancé Don Ottavio (David Portillo) consoles Anna and helps her avenge her father’s murder .  His wonderful tenor voice sings two important arias. and the many ensembles.  In the end Giovanni is punished by the ghost of Il Commodore.

The opera has one famous song after another starting with the overture that anticipates many of them.  The singers in this performance are all excellent and well experienced in the great opera houses of the world including the Metropolitan (Willis-Sørensen, Green, Newton, Portillo, Howard, Su, Redpath).

Chorus Master Susanne Sheston leads the choruses in all this season’s operas.  The choruses are  made up of Apprentice Singers for all the operas.  They are participating in Santa Fe’s Opera program for young opera singers,  one of the most competitive and prestigious in the nation.

The entire  production “Don Giovanni” is one of the highlights of the season of five operas in the 2024 season of the Santa Fe Opera.  

santafeopera.org 

Collective Rage: A Play in Five Betties

By Joseph Cillo

A Bold and Thought-Provoking Journey of Self-Discovery

Collective Rage: A Play in Five Betties by Shotgun Players delivers a vibrant, engaging, and masterfully crafted exploration of identity, gender, and personal freedom, leaving the audience both very entertained and reflective.

This fun yet thoughtful production masterfully explores themes of identity, gender, and personal freedom. Directed by Becca Wolff and written by Jen Silverman, the play features five characters named Betty, each on a journey of self-discovery in a world filled with societal expectations.

Silverman’s writing is both sharp and insightful, giving each Betty a distinct voice and personality. The narrative intertwines humor and introspection, allowing the audience to reflect on the human experience in a way that is both entertaining and meaningful. The play’s structure, which includes a play-within-a-play inspired by Shakespeare’s “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” adds depth and complexity to the story.

The performances by Atosa Babaoff, Skyler Cooper, Raisa Donato, linda maria girón, and Nicole Odell are fun, compelling, authentic – and sometimes, over-the-top. Each actor brings a unique energy to the role, making the audience feel connected to their characters’ struggles and triumphs. The chemistry among the cast enhances the play’s exploration of complex emotions and relationships.

 

The inventive set design by Angrette McCloskey transforms the stage into a dynamic and immersive world. Additionally, the thematic art installation in the lobby, featuring works by visual artists including Cara Goldstein and Suzanna Scott, enriches the overall experience and provides a visual extension of the play’s themes.

Becca Wolff’s direction skillfully balances the play’s humor and its deeper messages. Wolff’s vision allows the absurdity and humor of the story to shine while ensuring that the play’s exploration of identity and self-discovery remains impactful.

Silverman’s play challenges the audience to reconsider societal norms and stereotypes, offering a fresh perspective on the quest for personal happiness and authenticity. The play is an invitation to exercise a braver, more vital imagination about who we are and what we’re capable of, a theme that resonates strongly in today’s world.

Collective Rage: A Play in Five Betties is a bold and relevant production that is both entertaining and thought-provoking. Shotgun Players once again demonstrate their commitment to creating affordable, impactful theater that speaks to a diverse audience. This play is a testament to the power of storytelling and the importance of challenging the status quo.

 

The Prom at Sonoma Arts Live

By Flora Lynn Isaacson

 

Last Sunday, a sold-out house enjoyed the final performance of The Prom at Sonoma Arts Live. The audience was taken in immediately by the cast’s electric energy. The show was thoroughly entertaining thanks to their fine acting, singing and dancing.

The play is based on the book by Bob Martin and Chad Beguelin (lyrics also by Beguelin and music by Matthew Sklar).

This production highlights the many talents of Jonathen Blue. His direction, choreography, singing and acting are extraordinary.

According to Blue, the story of The Prom “belongs to anyone who has ever felt ostracized, excluded or treated differently for what they believe or who they love.”

The plot is “loosely based” on a real person–Constance McMillen, a high school girl who was banned from bringing a female date to her prom in 2010.

McMillen’s story got nationwide attention; the ACLU sued the school district, and won a case on her behalf. Five years later, the idea for The Prom was conceived by playwright/producer Jack Viertel.

According to Newsweek, Viertel envisioned a play about “a girl in Indiana who wants to take her girlfriend to a prom and some failing actors come in to help—but they mess things up.” He called Martin and Beguelin with the concept and they “dove right in, creating a farcical show,” that won a Tony Award for Outstanding Musical (2019).

The first act is set backstage in a Broadway theater where four actors learn the play they are appearing in is closing immediately. Scathing reviews have labeled their performances “self-indulgent” and “narcissistic.”

In response to the criticism, they talk about how to redeem themselves in the public eye by getting involved in a “worthy” cause.

Many causes are brought up but the Prom controversy interests the group the most so they decide to go to Indiana and take a stand.

Daniela Innocenti Beem (Dee Dee), Jeremy Berrick (Trent), Tim Setzer (Barry) and Chelsea Smith (Angie) are spectacular playing the “out of town actors” trying to combat the town’s intolerance. Their performances are delightful and full of humor. They bring life to the play’s clever dialogue and fabulous song with stage presence off the charts!

Hannah Passanisi (as Emma, the student at the center of the storm), Pilar Gonzales (Emma’s girlfriend Alyssa), and Julia Holsworth (Alyssa’s uptight mother) are equally impressive in their roles.

Laurynn Malilay’s creative set design and Christina Howell’s outstanding music direction add much to the show. Kudos also to Maeve Smith (costume design), Levi Klouse (lighting) and Jaime Love (Producer) for making this a memorable show.

Coming up next at Sonoma Arts Live is Young Frankenstein, directed by Larry Williams, September 6-22.

 

 

 

Don’t Stop Us Now

By Joseph Cillo

Superb Performance

A Delightful Evening of Song and Dance

Transcendence Theatre Company’s latest production, “Don’t Stop Us Now,” is an engaging and delightful experience that leaves audiences feeling joyful and uplifted. From the opening number to the final bow, the performance is a testament to the talent and passion of the ensemble.

Outstanding Performances

The cast of “Don’t Stop Us Now” delivers outstanding performances, showcasing their vocal prowess and emotional depth. Notable performers include Ruby Lewis, Charis Gullage, Emily Yates, J.D. Daw, Julian Diaz-Granados, and Simon Pearl. Each performer brings their unique strengths to the stage, creating a dynamic and cohesive ensemble. Their energy and enthusiasm are contagious, drawing the audience into the heart of the performance.

Impressive Choreography

The choreography is impressive, with each dance number executed with precision and creativity. The blend of contemporary and classic styles is seamless, and the dancers’ synchronization and athleticism are truly captivating. Their movements add an extra layer of storytelling to the songs, enhancing the overall experience.

A Musical Celebration

“Don’t Stop Us Now” celebrates music in a variety of forms, featuring a diverse selection of songs that span different genres and eras. The musical arrangements are well-crafted, highlighting the performers’ strengths and creating a rich auditory experience. Each song feels fresh and engaging, even when it’s a familiar tune.

MidAtlantic Men Meet Queenz That Rock

One of the highlights of this production is the creative collaboration between the MidAtlantic Men, Queenz That Rock, and Transcendence. This world-premiere event showcases epically soaring vocals and tight harmonies, featuring beloved Transcendence artists Emily Yates and Simon Pearl. The show opens with the MidAtlantic Men, who dazzle with their captivating vocals and magnetic charm in a friendly competition of British and American hits. Iconic songs from Elvis to Elton and Adele to Aerosmith are brilliantly performed.

Following this, the Queenz That Rock, a trio of female rock powerhouses, ignite the stage with a journey through rock’s golden ages. Their performance features chart-topping music from Heart, Bonnie Tyler, Bon Jovi, Belinda Carlisle, Pat Benatar, Joan Jett, and more, delivering an explosion of song that leaves the audience enthralled.

Appealing Production Design

The production design complements the performance with vibrant lighting, creative set pieces, and stylish costumes. The seamless transitions between scenes and effective use of space contribute to a smooth and engaging experience from start to finish.

Special Nights and Community Engagement

Transcendence Theatre Company’s commitment to community engagement is evident with special events like Pets Lifeline Night on July 25, where 15% of all ticket sales are donated to Pets Lifeline, sponsored by the girl & the fig. Additionally, $5 Family Night on July 28 offers an affordable option for families to enjoy the show together. These community nights not only enhance the overall experience but also support valuable causes.

Broadway in Sonoma

The “Don’t Stop Us Now” production is part of Transcendence’s Broadway in Sonoma series, featuring four weekends of Broadway musical revues in the picturesque Sonoma Field of Dreams. Each show highlights unique musical styles and performances from acclaimed Broadway musicals like Hamilton, Wicked, and Les Misérables. Arriving early allows attendees to enjoy dinner, shopping, and world-class wine tasting around the historic Sonoma Plaza before the show.

Transcendence Theatre Company’s “Don’t Stop Us Now” is a must-see production that highlights the best of musical theatre. With its excellent performances, impressive choreography, and engaging energy, it’s a show that promises to entertain and inspire. Don’t miss the opportunity to experience this delightful evening of song and dance. Tickets are now as low as $25, with 40% of all tickets under $50. Click on the “Book Tickets” button on their website to secure your seats today.

 

Laurie Roldan Sings A Song For You

By Joseph Cillo

Hello Theatre Enthusiasts,

San Francisco’s 42nd Street Moon presents:

Laurie Roldan Sings A Song For You
A Cabaret Concert Inspired by the Music of Karen Carpenter
– A Tribute to Karen Carpenter – August 17 & 25

About the Concert:
Written and directed by Laurie Roldan, this cabaret concert features Laurie Roldan singing favorite hits by Karen Carpenter, accompanied by the talented musicians Brett Strader (piano), Michael Henning (drums), and Aaron Germain (bass). This concert is a heartwarming journey through well-known Carpenters songs, interwoven with personal stories and memories shared by Laurie. Guest vocalists and children’s ensemble will also join Laurie on stage, making this a family-friendly event filled with joy and inspiration.

Laurie Roldan thrives on singing to inspire others and feels this is her unique purpose in life. She has appeared as a soloist with symphony orchestras throughout California and performed lead roles at many Bay Area Theaters. Some favorite roles include The Narrator in Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat (Shellie Nominee), Percy in The Spitfire Grill (Shellie Nominee), Sarah in Guys and Dolls, Rose in The Secret Garden, and Mary Magdalene in Jesus Christ Superstar. Laurie was also part of the Dean Goodman Award-winning cast of A Grand Night for Singing. She volunteers her performance annually for the Hospice of the East Bay’s “Tree of Lights” events throughout the Bay Area. Roldan recorded an inspirational album, Even That, to comfort those going through difficult times.

After an extensive foray into musical theater, cabaret, and inspirational music, Laurie realized her strongest inspiration growing up was Karen Carpenter. The lyrics to the songs the Carpenters sang told unique stories – many that identified with her life. As a result, Roldan has dedicated several years creating Laurie Roldan Sings A Song For You, a cabaret concert inspired by the music of Karen Carpenter.

The Gateway Theatre
215 Jackson St. (at Battery St.), San Francisco, CA 94111

Tickets:
General Admission: $49
Senior: $39
Student & Under 35: $39
Tickets can be purchased through the Box Office at 415-255-8207 (Tues. – Fri., 11:00 am – 5:00 pm) or online at 42nd Street Moon Tickets.

Social Media Links:

Video Clips:

Limited Engagement – 2 Shows Only!

  • Saturday, August 17, at 7:00 pm
  • Sunday, August 25, at 3:00 pm

 


Accused!

By Joseph Cillo

A Delightful Whodunit at Central Works

Patricia Milton’s latest creation, directed by the talented Kimberly Ridgeway, is a comedic gem that breathes fresh life into the murder mystery genre. The world premiere of Accused!, running from July 13 to August 11, provides an evening filled with laughter, intrigue, and unexpected twists.

The narrative kicks off with a bang as the Lady Detectives take on a new murder case, only to find themselves tangled in a web of anarchists and religious fanatics. The discovery of a body in the parlor of the Hunter Lodging House quickly escalates the stakes, with Victorian Lady Detective Katie Smalls becoming the prime suspect. The ensuing investigation is both thrilling and hilarious, showcasing Milton’s sharp wit and knack for crafting engaging mysteries.

Ridgeway’s direction keeps the pacing brisk and the tension high, ensuring that the audience is constantly engaged. The chemistry among the cast members is palpable, bringing to life the quirky and endearing characters of the Lady Detectives. Their camaraderie and clever banter are a highlight, making for an entertaining and immersive experience.

Acting Ensemble:

  • Chelsea Bearce as Katie Smalls
  • Alan Coyne as Lord Philip Ian Albert, Deacon Manley, & Henri Blancmange
  • Lauren Dunagan as Loveday Fortescue
  • Sindu Singh as Allison Tinglepenny & Inspector Mary Perkins
  • Jan Zvaifler as Valeria Hunter

Special mention must be made of Alan Coyne, so watchable when he is on stage. A master of his craft, Coyne stays in-role even when not in dialogue, captivating the audience with his nuanced performances and adding depth to every scene he is in. Bravo Alan!

The set design and period costumes are meticulously crafted, transporting viewers to the Victorian era with ease. Every detail, from the ornate furnishings to the detectives’ stylish attire, adds to the authenticity and charm of the production.

Despite the serious nature of the plot, Milton masterfully balances the darker elements with humor, resulting in a delightful and accessible play. The clever dialogue and unexpected comedic moments had the audience in stitches, providing a perfect counterbalance to the suspenseful storyline.

Accused! is a must-see for fans of murder mysteries and comedy alike. With limited availability on July 14, 21, and 28, securing tickets while you can is essential. This production is a testament to the talent and creativity of the Central Works Writers Workshop, and it is sure to leave you eagerly anticipating their next premiere.

In summary, Accused! is a thoroughly enjoyable and well-crafted play that promises an evening of laughter, suspense, and delightful performances. Don’t miss the chance to see this fun production!