Tag: musical

Jersey Boys – Oh What A Night

Last night I was lucky enough to score last minute tickets to see Jersey Boys on Broadway. As your blogger waited for her train back to her own corner of Jersey, this review started to form:

Most musicals, admittedly, are about love. More specifically, they are usually at least partially (if not completely) about romance. The couple meets, there is some conflict, but ultimately the couple (or couples) get together and everyone sings. Every once in awhile we get introduced to a different kind of love story, a story where the focus is on the music more than anything. That is what you will get when you go see Jersey Boys. The play is a musical history lesson, where the members of the Four Seasons share their experiences in forming the group and how it changed their lives forever. The play is perfect for those interested in music history or music in general. It is especially fun seeing the personal connection certain members had with specific songs. A love of the Four Seasons’ music is a must, as the show features their songs almost exclusively. If you are not a fan of their music or the time period then this show is probably not for you. Otherwise, this is probably one of the most entertaining history lessons you will ever get. Below is their performance at the 2006 Tony Awards to give you a taste (although the cast has changed since then):

2010 Tony Awards – Part II

I was so excited about Memphis winning Best Musical last night that I neglected to mention some of my favorite moments from the rest of the show. I’m going to correct this error now.

First of all, I loved having Sean Hayes as a host. He was funny without being too crass and a real joy on stage. I actually considered going to see Promises, Promises based on his performance at the Tonys. Speaking of performances, they were all very good this year. I didn’t dig Fela! as much as other people seem to, but I think that was just personal preference. The rest all did a splendid job and picked great numbers to represent the best the show had to offer. Finally, Lea Michele and Matt Morrison both did a splendid job with their performances. I especially loved the choice of “Don’t Rain On My Parade” for Michele. I might just have that song stuck in my head for the next week, thanks to her. Oh, and when Morrison is done with Glee then he has to make his way for the Broadway lights (again). I would go see just about any show he was in. Broadway was made for him.

What were your favorite moments of this year’s Tony Awards? How many of the nominated shows had you actually seen? As always, feel free to sound of in the comments section below.

New New News

Lots of new music things for us to look forward to.

1) Wolf Parade is apparently working on a new album to be released in 2010. The goal is to have the finished product ready by the spring.
2) MGMT also have a new album, which is already available for streaming online. When you’re finished listening you can pre-order the album on their website.
3) The American Idiot musical is starting previews tomorrow. Buy your tickets today.
3.1) There is already talk of turning American Idiot into a movie as well. Seems Tom Hanks wants in on the gravy train. Thoughts on this? Good idea? Bad idea? Not entirely sure?
Lastly, don’t forget to program your Tivo for Lost tonight. The season is heating up, and there is still a lot more to discover about the inhabitants of the island.

Memphis Sings the Music of My Soul

I already wrote a review of Memphis when it was in previews, so instead consider this a spotlight on one of it’s cast members: Bryan Fenkart.

Bryan is part of the ensemble and understudy to the lead (usually played by Chad Kimball). Last night, Bryan played the lead part for both performances. I was in attendance at the evening show. Everyone in the cast did a fantastic job, no question about it. Montego Glover has a stunning wardrobe and an evening more stunning voice to match. Chad Kimball plays the part of Huey with an energy that grabs you from minute one. And Bryan? He’s usually in the ensemble, most likely only noticed by those who are looking for him. That is, until he gets the chance to be a star. Then everyone notices.

It’s always different when you know the performer. You want to be objective, but recognize that is almost impossible. So when everyone else in the theater is talking, it tells you that you were right about this one. He really is something special. Bryan did a splendid job taking on the lead last night, pushing the bar higher than ever before. His performance was fantastical. Afterwards, people waited by the stage door for pictures and autographs as if he was a star. Which he was, at least for that night. And I predict his star will keep rising a bit higher yet.