test2
Don’t miss The Book Club Play, presented by Ross Valley Players now through June 9 at the Barn Theater in Ross.
Written by Karen Zacarias and directed by Mary Ann Rodgers, the show will make you laugh and smile. It’s entertaining from start to finish thanks the extraordinary talent of the ensemble cast and creative team.
The stage (Ron Krempetz/Dhyanis) is set perfectly for a book club. Ana’s comfortable living room has a well stocked bar, cozy couches, chairs, plenty of bookshelves and warm lighting (Ellen Brooks).
As the play begins, the members of the club introduce themselves one by one. First is Ana (Elena Wright), a journalist who holds the book club in her home. She has agreed to let a documentary filmmaker set up a camera to record the club’s meetings. Next is Lily (Chiyako Delores) who works with Ana at the local newspaper. Lily joins the club to meet people since she’s new in town. Rob (Mark Vashro) is Ana’s husband. He admits he’s “not a big reader,” but likes the food and company at book club. Jen (Jannely Calmell) is a paralegal. She says books are her “best friends.” Will (Matthew Travisano) works at a history museum—he’s well read, well dressed and dated Ana before she met her husband Rob.
After the introductions, Ana explains the camera is pre-set to record the group every two weeks when they meet. The food and wine flows as they discuss the first book selected, Moby Dick.
Later in Act One, a new character, Alex (Gabriel Ross) joins the group for the first time. He’s a friend of Jen’s and a comparative literature professor. He doesn’t enjoy books anymore and claims his “connection” to books and people is “broken.”
Throughout the play, a separate character called “the pundit” (Marsha van Broek) appears between scenes offering wit and wisdom on various aspects of books and the book business. She is hilarious playing multiple roles (both male and female) including a retired librarian, secret service agent, Wal-Mart book stocker, prison bookseller and literary agent.
As the story develops and the group discusses Age of Innocence, Twilight, The Da Vinci Code, Harry Potter and other familiar titles, the characters recognize the powerful effect that books have on themselves and each other.
Special thanks to Steve Price (Producer) for bringing this touching comedy to the Ross Valley Player’s stage.
Coming up next at Ross Valley Players is Crossing Delanceyby Susan Sandler and directed by Adrian Elfenbaum, September 12-October 13.
 |
 |
Step back in time
Tucked into the heart of the Ozarks (northwest corner of Arkansas), about an hour (50 miles down country roads through a couple of hollows) from the lights and electronic music of Branson lies Eureka Springs. The only entire downtown on the US National Register of Historic Places, it is listed in “1000 places to see before you die”, and for the second time has been chosen as one of The Great Towns in America. Called the “gem of the Ozarks”, it is also known affectionately as “Little Switzerland of the Ozarks”.
Native people settled here for the waters, believing the mineral springs had healing properties. When that notion reached settlers moving west, they too came. Trains, making the area even more accessible, created growth resembling San Francisco 1850s boom times.
The Eureka Springs Historic District is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Arkansas. Victorian era homes hug cliffsides along streets that rise and fall in a series of whirlpool-like circles within the curvy, hilly topography in a 5-mile long loop. Very scenic but drive slowly.
It’s the “Wedding Capitol” of the mid-south, with more than 4,000 weddings performed each year. No blood tests or waiting period – marriage licenses may be purchased at the local Court House.
Many reasons to visit: Thorncrown Chapel (4th best architectural achievement of the 20th Century), White River trout fishing, spa treatments, fine restaurants, picturesque one-of-a-kind shops, boutiques, galleries, craft shops, wonderful Ozark mountain and lake scenery. Filled with creative types – artists, writers, musicians, intellectually curious – Eureka Springs describes itself as a “college town without a college”.
Totally charming – perfect for a long weekend or 2-week extended vacation. Here’s what we saw/did in 2 1/2 jam-packed days.
day 1 photos
fly into new Branson airport go then drive to Eureka Springs
Newly opened May 2009. Built at some $155 million on land formerly owned by Tennessee Ernie Ford, and said to be the largest privately-owned commercial airport in the U.S. Construction involved flattening the tops of nearby Ozark Mountains and carving roads through them – thought to be the largest earth moving project in Missouri history. Closest commercial airport is Springfield-Branson National Airport, 50 miles northwest of Branson, owned by the City of Springfield.
4 pm arrive Eureka Springs
check into 1886 Crescent Hotel & Spa go
Sitting on top of Crescent Mountain like a European chateau overlooking the town, this “Grand Old Lady of the Ozarks” opened in 1886 to be the finest hotel west of the Mississippi. In the late 1800’s, when a new railroad brought thousands of tourists to Eureka Springs for the recuperative health treatments of the mineral rich hot springs, the hotel flourished along with the town. Has a rich and colorful history – having served as a luxury hotel, all girls school and cancer hospital run by Dr. Baker, a snake oil salesman. Fell into disrepair over the years, but has been restored to its former Victorian glory. Now a National Historic Hotel – and also considered by many to be the most haunted hotel in America!
6 pm dinner Local Flavor go
Clean, cozy, candlelit, semi-fine dining, color-print tablecloth restaurant. Excellent, inventive cuisine and professional friendly waitstaff. Wine list mostly Napa/Sonoma greats with notable European varietals also featured. Good location at the start of Main Street. Highly recommended by hotel concierge and others – a local favorite. Great dining way to begin a visit!
8 pm Ghost Tour Crescent Hotel go
Quirky, rambling, tiny bit freaky – and a lot of fun. Hotel investigated by TV show “Ghost Busters” which found paranormal phenomena all over the place. We take some unusual pictures that we’re still puzzling over. Room 419 hosts a ghost dubbed Theodora, believed to be one of Baker’s cancer patients, who sometimes introduces herself to surprised guests and housekeepers. We happen to be staying in 419!
stay 1886 Crescent Hotel & Spa go
day 2 photos
breakfast 1886 Crescent Hotel & Spa go
Full buffet breakfast available in the large dining room with view of the gardens and porches. Leisurely and luxurious way to start the day.
10 am shopping and sightseeing downtown
Much to see here – allow more time or come back for several visits.
11:30 am lunch The Oasis go
You get here by going down a little wooden staircase leading down to 53C (between 53 and 51 Spring St.) and then it gets interesting. 2 SMALL rooms we ate in the back (only 2 tiny tables) ordering off the handwritten wall menu (over the water heater). One cheffette, one sassy waitress prepare and serve great Ark-Mex food with many vegetarian options. Retro funky. They don’t advertise or have a website — don’t miss the cultural experience.
1 pm Great Passion Play go and Christ of the Ozarks statue go
First performed in 1968, The Play (styled after that of Oberammergau, Germany) has been seen by over 7.5 million people making it the largest attended outdoor drama in America. The outdoor performance is staged 4 or 5 nights a week from May through October in the 4,100-seat amphitheater. Too early for the first show, we had a backstage site tour. Also nearby on the grounds is the Christ of the Ozarks statue the largest Christ statue in North America a popular place for weddings.
2 pm Queen Anne Mansion House Museum go
Built in 1892, this first new major attraction to open in Eureka Springs in over a decade is an immersion into the rich culture and history of the 19th century. In a pre-opening tour of the entire museum we saw fine artisanship, architecture with balconies and wrap around porches, beautiful carved woodwork, original stained glass, musemum quality furniture and a collection of fine 19th century decorative arts. Buffalo Bill and Harold Bell Wright visited this home. An addition to the house includes art gallery space and public rooms. Memorable, must-see experience.
3 pm Keels Creek Winery Wine Tasting go
Wine in Arkansas? Well, yes sort of. Not exactly Napa/Sonoma but Arkansas’s newest winery is located in Eureka Springs. The vineyards, in the hills of Keels Creek, about 3 miles from the city limits are not yet mature enough to supply all of the grapes needed for the winery. But the winery has begun producing wines, many of them somewhat exotic hybrids which we sampled. Wine production is small, mostly sold out. A valiant effort stay tuned!
4 pm Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge go
This largest lifelong refuge (USDA licensed) for abused, abandoned and neglected big cats in the world is home to over 100 lions, tigers, cougars and leopards, and other animals. Tanya Jackson Smith, founder and president of the Refuge, whose family sold everything they owned in order to buy the land and set up the Refuge, gave us a guided tour. Without the Refuge, 90% of the animals would now be dead. Perched on a hilltop with extensive acreage and great views, their Zulu Safari Lodge comfortable canvas structures with private baths, individually decorated offers big cat lovers a place to stay in total comfort nearby the magnificant animals and contribute to the mission. Very well designed.
6 pm dinner Ermilio’s go
Eureka Springs’ number one recommended restaurant for many years is located on the Historic Trail in a Victorian cottage surrounded with blooming gardens. Excellent Italian food prepared using grandmother’s recipes: quick, attentive service. Casual, comfortable, nice experience. Order Tiramisu for dessert if calories are not important. Delicious!
8 pm Pine Mountain Music and Comedy Theater go
For some local regional entertainment, we take in an evening of classic country music and comedy theater. The 7 performers sing, play and comedy their hearts out for over 2 hours (with an intermission). We even get to talk with the performers at intermission and after the show. The show has been playing in various incarnations for over 36 years and has the distinction of being “Arkansas’ first and most attended family show”. We come away smiling and fully popcorned. Very Ozarkian and worth experiencing.
stay 1886 Crescent Hotel & Spa go
day 3 photos
breakfast 1886 Crescent Hotel & Spa go
10 am Fire Om Earth Studio go
The full name of this collaborative creativity studio is Fire Om Earth Retreat Center & Working Studio of Artists Lorna & Craig Trigg Hirsch. These folks do it all: hand crafted musical instruments (drums. flutes, ocarinas), ongoing classes in Yoga, Tai Chi and Belly Dance plus creative workshops, house concerts, and private and group retreats, massage, Sweat Lodge, Watercolor class, custom retreat Classes & Workshops. We come by to view true artists/entrepreneurs in action.
noon lunch Mud Street Café go
From Main Street you go down a number of stairs to enter (apparently the bulding was street level at one time but they later raised the road). They’ve won a number of food awards through the years, including: Best Breakfast, Best Coffee, Best Dessert and Best Family Restaurant. A “must” for breakfast or lunch — see for yourself.
2 pm narrated Tram Tour go
Very nice 50-minute narrated tours start at and return to the Eureka Springs Transit Center, just off Main Street. Great way to get a sense of the town. Our narrator is an ex-dam (not damn) superintendent, educational and witty. Recommend starting with this, rather than doing it at the tail-end as we did.
4 pm depart Eureka Springs for Branson
drive to Branson for Silver Dollar City 50th Anniversary Celebration
Thanks to all who helped create this fine experience
Eureka Springs
CAPC (City Advertising and Promotion Commission) go
Ken Rundel Eureka Springs CAPC Publicist
organized the visit and acted as guide/facilitator
Fun of Travel
Joseph Cillo Publisher & Editor in Chief
design and text
Mary Buttaro Creative & Photo Editor
photographs and narrative
who together created this story and photo journal
© Fun of Travel
A Heartfelt Production with Humor and Depth
The Marin Theatre rendition of Harvey Fierstein’s “Torch Song” is a well-crafted and engaging production. Directed by Evren Odcikin, this adaptation of the “Torch Song Trilogy” captures the spirit of the original while offering a fresh take that feels both current and resonant.
Dean Linnard’s performance as Arnold Beckoff is truly exceptional. Linnard embodies the character with remarkable depth and authenticity, seamlessly transitioning between moments of biting humor and profound vulnerability. His portrayal captures the multifaceted nature of Arnold, making him both relatable and deeply compelling. Linnard’s nuanced performance anchors the production, drawing the audience into Arnold’s journey with a captivating blend of charisma and emotional resonance. He is also very funny at times, delivering lines with impeccable timing and a sharp wit that keeps the audience laughing.
The supporting cast enhances the production with strong performances. Nancy Carlin, as Arnold’s mother, skillfully portrays the complex mix of disapproval and deep affection that defines their relationship. Her interactions with Linnard are particularly compelling, adding depth to the story’s exploration of familial bonds.
Patrick Andrew Jones and Kina Kantor, playing Ed and Laurel, provide solid support with authentic portrayals of their characters’ relationships with Arnold. Edric Young’s role as Alan injects a sense of hope and optimism, while Joe Ayers, as David, brings an intensity that highlights the more serious themes of the play.
Odcikin’s direction ensures a well-paced performance, blending comedic and dramatic moments effectively. The production design, including contributions from Sarah Phykitt (set design), Ray Oppenheimer (lighting design), Lana Palmer (sound design), and Jessie Amoroso (costume design), creates a visually appealing and immersive experience that captures the essence of 1970s and 80s New York.
The strength of this production lies in its ability to balance lighthearted humor with heartfelt moments. The dialogue is sharp and often funny, while the play’s more serious themes are handled with care and sensitivity. The exploration of love, identity, and acceptance feels as relevant today as ever.
In its condensed format, “Torch Song” retains the emotional impact of the original trilogy. This Marin Theatre Company production respects Fierstein’s work while bringing a fresh perspective that speaks to contemporary audiences. It is a compelling show that will appeal to both longtime fans and those new to the story.
In summary, Marin Theatre’s “Torch Song” is a strong production with excellent performances, thoughtful direction, and a well-executed blend of humor and depth. It offers a powerful reminder of the enduring need for acceptance and the timeless quest for love. This production is well worth seeing.
artist + AI = art
Artificial Imagination: How AI is Redefining Creativity
Introduction
In the realm of creativity, a profound shift is underway. Artificial Intelligence (AI) is no longer just a tool for automating mundane tasks; it has started to play a significant role in artistic and creative processes. From painting and music composition to writing and digital design, AI technologies are transforming the landscape of creative industries, challenging our traditional notions of art and the artist.
The Creative Collaboration
The integration of AI into the creative sectors is not about replacing artists but enhancing their capabilities. Consider the world of digital art, where AI algorithms now assist artists by suggesting variations and iterations that would take humans much longer to conceive. This partnership between human and machine enables artists to explore new artistic territories and push the boundaries of traditional media.
In the music industry, AI is used to analyze trends and styles to generate compositions that are both novel and familiar, striking a balance that appeals to both producers and audiences. These tools are not just labor-saving devices; they provide artists with a starting point for their own creative input, accelerating the creative process and enriching the final product.
Democratizing Creativity
One of the most significant impacts of AI in the creative world is its potential to democratize creation. Advanced software platforms that incorporate AI are now accessible to amateurs and professionals alike, leveling the playing field. For instance, AI-driven graphic design tools can suggest layouts, color schemes, and typography, enabling users with minimal design experience to produce work of professional quality. This accessibility is transforming hobbyists into creators, opening up avenues for innovation and expression that were previously gated by skill level or resource access.
AI as an Autonomous Agent
As AI technology continues to evolve, we are witnessing the rise of machines not just as tools but as creators in their own right. AI-generated artworks are beginning to populate galleries, some fetching hefty sums at prestigious auctions. These creations challenge our perception of art and raise questions about creativity’s origins—can a machine be creative, or is it merely simulating creativity based on algorithms and data?
The notion of an AI “artist” also sparks a debate around authorship and originality. As machines create art that resonates with human audiences, the lines between human-made and machine-generated are blurring, leading to both excitement and existential questions within the creative community.
Future Prospects and Ethical Considerations
Looking forward, the role of AI in creativity is poised to expand. With advancements in technology, AI could soon offer more personalized and emotionally aware creations, potentially writing books or composing music that cater to the emotional states or tastes of individual users. However, this future also necessitates a careful consideration of ethical issues. As AI takes on more creative work, questions about intellectual property, the value of human artistry, and the transparency of AI processes become increasingly pertinent.
Moreover, as we delegate more creative tasks to machines, we must consider the impact on human creativity. Will AI stifle human creativity, or will it spur us to new heights by freeing us from repetitive tasks and opening new paths for innovation?
Conclusion
AI’s integration into the creative industries is a testament to the evolving relationship between humans and machines. Far from the dystopian views that machines might replace us, the reality is shaping up to be much more collaborative and transformative. As we navigate this new landscape, the challenge will be to harness AI’s potential responsibly while fostering human creativity, ensuring that we maintain the essence of what makes art profoundly human.
Book Club Fun & Games
Karen Zacarías’ “The Book Club Play,” as staged by Ross Valley Players, transforms an ordinary book club into an exhilarating theatrical experience, blending humor, interpersonal drama, and literary charm with finesse. Under the skillful direction of Mary Ann Rodgers, the play thrives as a vibrant ensemble piece that delightfully captures the spirit of communal book discussions intertwined with personal stories and sharp, witty dialogues.
The production features an array of compelling performances, with each actor bringing depth and authenticity to their roles. Jannelly Calmell shines as Jennifer McClintock, embodying a rich tapestry of emotional nuance and resilience. Matthew Travisano’s portrayal of William Nothnagel captures the essence of a conflicted intellectual with both gravity and grace. Elena Wright, as Ana Smith, delivers a commanding performance, expertly navigating the emotional complexities of her character, making Ana’s journey the centerpiece of the narrative.
The set design by Ron Krempetz remarkably recreates a living room that feels both cozy and expansive, reflecting the internal worlds of the characters. Valera Coble’s costume designs meticulously accentuate the personalities, enhancing the visual storytelling with their thoughtful and expressive choices.
What truly sets this production apart is its ability to maintain a light-hearted tone while exploring deeper themes of identity, change, and the impact of literature on life. The inclusion of a documentary film crew in the storyline adds an interesting layer, bringing a meta-theatrical element that enriches the narrative without overshadowing the character-driven humor and drama.
Ross Valley Players’ “The Book Club Play” is a must-see for those who cherish literature and the complex, often humorous dynamics of group discussions. This production not only entertains but also invites audiences to reflect on their own experiences with books and the people with whom they share them. It’s a warm, engaging, and thought-provoking evening of theatre that celebrates the joy of reading and the bonds it can forge.
Sonoma Community Center was packed last weekend for the final performances of the musical The Hello Girls, presented by Sonoma Arts Live.
According to Jaime Love, Artistic Director, it’s “about the first female U.S. military unit…groundbreakers who operated switchboards translating vital communications during World War I.” Serving as part of the U.S. Army Signal Corp., these bi-lingual women ironically did not even have the right to vote until two years after the war ended in 1920.
Based on the book by Cara Reichel and Peter Mills (music and lyrics also by Mills), the story comes to life with Maeve Smith’s fine direction and outstanding music direction by Aja Gianola-Norris.
The show is a real winner thanks to spectacular choreography by Jonathen Blue and lovely live music performed by members of the cast along with Elaine Herrick (bass/cello) and Erica Dori/Elizabeth Dreyer Robertson (percussion).
The ensemble cast is multi-talented. They act, sing, dance and some play musical instruments—all with great energy and range. Tina Traboulsi shines in her role as Louise (she also plays clarinet and guitar). Mike Pavone is commanding as General Pershing and Jonathen Blue stands out with his powerful singing voice and strong acting as “Doughboy” Lt. Wassen.
Rounding out the fine cast is Caroline Shen (Bertha/piano), Emily Evans (Helen/violin), Sarah Lundstrom (Suzanne), Jenny Veilleux (Grace), Drew Bolander (Lt. Riser), Skyler King (Masterson) and Phi Tran (Morris). The actors’ dialects were spot on thanks to John Rustan (Dialect and Language Coach).
The set is simple so the costumes (Jaime Love/Maeve Smith), sound design (Tom Luekens) and lighting (Frank Sarubbi) add much to the overall mood. Kudos to the rest of the creative team and entire cast for creating a memorable show!
Coming up next at Sonoma Arts Live is Lend Me A Tenor,May 31-June 16 followed by The Prom, July 12-28.
Theatrical Brilliance in “The Late Wedding” by Christopher Chen
From the opening scene, “The Late Wedding,” directed by Erin McBride Africa, captivates with its intricate tapestry of narratives, each a reflection of Italo Calvino’s whimsical and philosophical style. Staged at the Kentfield Campus Studio Theatre, this production offers a refreshing and genre-bending exploration of love and marriage.
Christopher Chen’s script, inspired by Calvino’s literary explorations, masterfully intertwines elements of a spy thriller, sci-fi love story, and an anthropological tour through marriage customs. The result is an intellectual feast that challenges the audience’s perceptions of narrative and relationship dynamics.
The cast delivers stellar performances, with each narrator bringing unique depth and perspective to the interconnected fables. The fluidity of their transitions and the palpable chemistry among the actors enrich the play’s thematic complexity and emotional resonance.
Erin McBride Africa’s direction is a highlight, providing a clear vision that beautifully meshes the surreal with the everyday. The play’s pacing is impeccable, ensuring that the audience is engaged from start to finish, weaving through laughter and introspection alike.
The set design deserves special mention for its minimalistic yet versatile arrangement, which effectively supports the play’s dynamic shifts in tone and setting. Coupled with Landers Markwick’s evocative score, the production’s atmosphere is both enchanting and thought-provoking.
“The Late Wedding” is not just a play; it’s an experience. It invites you to journey through its fables, urging you to ponder the essence of love and the complexities of human relationships. Scheduled performances continue on May 10, 11, 17, and 18 at 7:30 pm, with matinées on May 12 and 19 at 2 pm. This is a must-see for anyone who appreciates profound narrative art and innovative theatrical expression.
In a world where theatrical innovation is often sought but seldom found, “The Late Wedding” emerges as a beacon of creativity and introspection—a testament to the enduring power of storytelling.
Renowned award-winning puppeteer Ronnie Burkett presents his Theatre of Marionettes from Canada to perform his latest show, Wonderful Joe, commissioned and produced by Stanford Live, May 1-4 2024 in the Bing Studio.
Created and performed by Burkett who is also credited for marionette and costume design, this show is one of many original tour de force productions that Burkett tours internationally – with several productions presented at Stanford Live in recent years.
Burkett is an extraordinary artist, writer, performer and storyteller who elevates this art form to exquisitely moving heights that are memorable visually and emotionally.
Joe Pickle lives on Eileen Avenue and used to run the local barber shop, therefore he knows everyone. However, Joe has just received ominous news that will affect the lives of the residents of Eileen Avenue.
In Wonderful Joe, the story is prescient and relatable – Eileen Avenue is to be torn down and replaced with condos. This area has seen better days but is home to the poor and marginalized who have all been given notice to move on – and out of their friendly and supportive community. We meet about twenty colorful characters, the residents of Eileen Avenue, played mainly by marionettes, puppets with strings, and several hand/glove puppets.
Joe and his dog, Mister, buzz around the neighborhood talking to everyone about the news. While he is resolute to moving he sees this as a bit of an adventure.
Linnda in a pink tracksuit (who jaunts not jogs) speaks her mind about the eviction notices with Joe until his dear friend, the butcher talks to Joe in a poignant scene.
Then there is Terry, who speaks very quickly and curtly – and Minnie! Minnie is larger than life, she wears a yellow flower hat, lavender jacket and a green and brown skirt with fuchsia sandals. Minnie’s voice is loud, and no wonder, because she runs the Trash Alley Players variety show on Eileen Avenue.
Burkett performs all the characters, switching voices and puppets with phenominal speed and finesse.
In a very moving scene with Sketch (an original Punk, he says), Hershey and Baby, each tell personal narrative stories in their beautifully written monologs.
Hershey slinks across the stage in pink platform shoes and pink glasses, performing a poignant and edgy number with brilliant writing.
Baby, who wears a beautiful dress of an upcycled dry cleaning bag is part of the fringes of society, but when she needs help, the residents are there for her.
Everyone is making plans and we even meet JC and a vibrant tooth fairy. Fascinating conversations among two, three and sometimes four characters are deftly brought to life by Burkett with subtle movements of each marionette and changes in voice dynamics.
Disenfranchised Mother Nature sings wearing a long feather boa, she has a well worn body, that is precious and finely sculpted. She has wisdom, a moody physicality and attitude in her beautiful movement as she sings her song – one of the highlights of this show! Music composition and lyrics by John Alcorn.
A child sits on a bench in school uniform who also feels disenfranchised, but not for the same reasons as others. Sgetti has a home and comfortable life. Joe talks to Sgetti in one of the most moving theatrical scenes in this story, when he gives advice and recounts challenges he had growing up. This scene is stunning in its message, emotional depth and razor sharp writing. Burkett has created a beautiful story with outstanding craft and astute observations of humanity. Don’t miss it – it’s outstanding theatre!
More Information:
A Triumph of Courage and Music
Sonoma Arts Live Theater Company breaks new ground with their latest production, “The Hello Girls.” Directed by the talented Maeve Smith, this new musical brings to light the remarkable story of the brave women who volunteered to serve their country during World War I, even before they had the right to vote.
Set against the backdrop of war-torn Europe, “The Hello Girls” follows the journey of the female switchboard operators, known affectionately as the “Hello Girls,” who were recruited by Army General John Pershing to assist in the war effort. Despite facing numerous challenges and obstacles, these courageous women played a pivotal role in communication on the front lines, ultimately helping to secure victory for the Allies.
What sets “The Hello Girls” apart is its captivating score, composed by Peter Mills. From soulful jazz melodies to lively ragtime tunes, the music adds depth and emotion to the story, transporting the audience to the tumultuous era of the Great War. Under the expert guidance of Music Director Aja Gianola-Norris and choreographer Jonathen Blue, the cast delivers stellar performances.
Speaking of the cast, Sonoma Arts Live has assembled a talented ensemble of local actors who breathe life into their characters with authenticity and passion. Jenny Veilleux shines as Grace Banker, Emily Evans compels as Helen Hill, and Sarah Lundstrom delivers a standout performance as Suzanne Prevot. Each actor brings a unique energy to the stage, making the story of the “Hello Girls” all the more compelling.
But beyond its entertainment value, “The Hello Girls” also shines a spotlight on an often overlooked chapter of history. Director Maeve Smith’s meticulous research and dedication to authenticity ensure that the audience gains a deeper understanding of the sacrifices and contributions of these extraordinary women. It’s a story that deserves to be told and remembered, and Sonoma Arts Live has done justice to its legacy.
As I left the theater, I couldn’t help but feel inspired by the resilience and courage of the “Hello Girls.” Their story serves as a reminder of the indomitable spirit of women throughout history and the power of music to transcend boundaries and unite hearts. “The Hello Girls” is not just a musical—it’s a testament to the human spirit and a celebration of the unsung heroes of the past.
“The Hello Girls” runs from April 19 to May 5 at the Rotary Stage in Andrews Hall, Sonoma Community Center. Go now and prepare to be transported on a journey of courage, camaraderie, and music that will stay with you long after the final curtain call.