Monday, December 4, 2017

“Bandstand” Revisited: The Donny Nova Band At Birdland Jazz Club

11/27/2017-New York City— “The Donny Nova Band Featuring Julia Trojan” was the focus of the show “Bandstand”. Once brought together, Corey Cott (Donny Novitski/Donny Nova), Laura Osnes (Julia Trojan), Geoff Packard (Wayne Wright), Joe Carroll (Johnny Simpson), Joey Pero (Nick Radel), James Nathan Hopkins (Jimmy Campbell), Brandon J. Ellis (Davy Zlatic)  got to understand the show’s message, and enjoyed playing music from it.  To promote the show, they had made appearances outside of the stage show during its run.  The show closed on September 17th, 2017; the show’s fans wondered where the cast would go next.

Fast forward nine weeks later. The Birdland Jazz Club, established 1949, played host to “The Donny Nova Band Featuring Julia Trojan”.  The night served as the “Bandstand” cast reunion. News of the event was spread via social media and Playbill’s website, and quickly sold out.  Looking around the room, you could see fans of the show, guests of the actors, “Bandstand” ensemble dancers, and some of the “Bandstand” creative team.

The Birdland club has a history you could see on its walls, and  you could get lost in.  After he got everyone’s attention, Jim Caruso (the event’s emcee) welcomed those gathered and introduced Corey Cott and James Nathan Hopkins to the stage.  Cott and Hopkins took time to address the audience who may have -or may not have- seen “Bandstand” before. The response was mixed, prompting Cott to comment: “This will be a weird 70 minutes for you then…”.

To introduce the rest of “The Donny Nova Band”, Corey Cott and James Nathan Hopkins used the song “I Know A Guy” from their show; they referenced a different actor in each verse.  As each person appeared, they quickly caught up with everyone before singing about the next one.  This in-between banter got more and more amusing, and Laura Osnes was finally announced as the final person in this band.

As they had on stage nine weeks ago, “The Donny Nova Band Featuring Julia Trojan” picked up where they left off: with the songs they played on stage, and bantering amongst themselves.   As they played “First Steps First”, the actors paused to admit times they forgot their lines.  During “Ain’t We Proud”, they related to the audience that “Bandstand” received the status of “Got Your 6” certification-an honor awarded for portraying the soldiers’ stories accurately and responsibly.   They were enjoying re-visiting the show and talking about it.

There were surprises in this show that delighted the crowd. Laura Osnes and Corey Cott mentioned that “Bandstand” cut some material from the Broadway production. The duo introduced and performed two songs that had been edited out: “Worth It” (one of the original contest entry songs) and “Give Me A Reason” (Donny’s Act 2 song). Laura Osnes also performed an extended version of one of the songs in the production.

Besides bringing up “Bandstand” stories, the cast performed standards and original songs.  For his part, Joey Pero played a piece he wrote.  James Nathan Hopkins went over to the piano to play one of his favorite Jazz pieces.  Brandon J. Ellis stepped away from his stand-up bass to sing “My Funny Valentine”; Hopkins took Ellis’ place on bass for this song. Joe Carroll and Geoff Packard sang about their actor-musician challenges to the tune of “Agony” from musical “Into the Woods”.

“Nobody”, a high-energy musical number from “Bandstand”, closed out the show.  People in the audience applauded the finale, expecting an encore.  Corey Cott sensed this and began crooning “I’m Dreaming of White Christmas”.


For one night on November 27th, 2017, the cast of “Bandstand” re-united at the Birdland Jazz Club.  Audience and actor alike had a good time.  This show was sold out, and generated interest regarding additional encores.  The response to this interest was quick: The Birdland Jazz Club will have “The Donny Nova Band Featuring Julia Trojan” back for a return engagement in March.           

Sunday, December 3, 2017

Christmas Concert Season: Celtic Thunder at the Grand Theater at Foxwoods Casino

12/2/2017-Connecticut—Irish singing group Celtic Thunder returned to Foxwoods Casino for their “Symphony Tour 2017”. Backed by an orchestra, their set list consisted of songs from their new album “Inspirational”, Christmas classics, and their well-known hits.  The stage was adorned with a winter theme in mind: a snowy landscape with snowflakes hanging above the stage.

1st Segment: The first part focused on the new album “Inspirational” for the most part.  The quintet (Damian McGinty, Ryan Kelly, Neil Byrne, Emmet Cahill and Michael O’Dwyer) walked out in suits as the orchestra kicked off the show and got the concert off to a good start. Celtic Thunder conveyed the tone of their recent recordings through songs like “You’ll Never Walk Alone” (from the musical “Carousel”). “Take Me Home” sounded really good when backed by an orchestra.

Solos in the First Half Included: Ryan Kelly’s cover of “The House of the Rising Sun”….Michael O’Dwyer’s version of the Elvis song “If I Can Dream”…Emmet Cahill’s rendition of  “Jekyll and Hyde”musical highlight  “This Is The Moment” …Damian’s performance of “Feels Like Home”

2nd Segment: After an intermission, the show resumed with the holiday themed-set.  Celtic Thunder’s version of “Carol of the Bells” started the segment. Also, there was a medley of holiday tunes that displayed their ability to play off each other amusingly; their dancing at this point in the show was later referenced by Ryan Kelly as a casual remark. They addressed the audience, expressing their warmest holiday wishes before preparing for their strong finale “Ireland’s Call”.  The finale was a perfect song to end the evening.

Solos in the Second Half Included:  Neil’s performance of “Mary, Did You Know?” … Emmet’s version of “O Holy Night”…Damian’s joyous cover of Mariah Carey’s “All I Want For Christmas Is You”… Michael’s beautifully sung version of “Hallelujah”

This concert was memorable.  Besides this being my first Celtic Thunder show, The “Symphony 2017 Tour” was a nice evening out.  Celtic Thunder’s vocals were great.  The orchestra backing them up enriched the experience for the listener.  Like the album title says, the concert was “inspirational”.



Saturday, September 16, 2017

The "Groundhog" Sees His Shadow for the Last Time

 As “Bandstand” is set to bow out on September 17th, 2017, it shares this closing date with a show that was a hit in London. Based on the 1993 movie, “Groundhog Day the Musical” tells the story of conceited weatherman Phil Connors. Connors doesn’t like covering the Groundhog Day festivities in Punxsutawney, PA; he just wants to leave.  Unfortunately for him, he is compelled by some force to relive this same day over, and over and over again. In this time loop, he goes from enjoying being able to do whatever he wants without consequences (“Philandering”) to a depression and wanting the  day to end at all costs (“Hope”). Through this ordeal, he ends up becoming open to the possibilities life has to offer (“Philanthropy”), including a meaningful connection with Rita Hanson-the Associate Producer who helps him throughout this never-ending day.

I have seen this show 3 times and will be at the final performance September 17th, 2017.  Andy Karl, Barrett Doss, and company really put on an entertaining performance. The comedic moments can come from new sources every night or afternoon as they devise ways to crack up their co-stars.  There are moments when the audience grows quiet and somber at Phil’s predicament, but the next scene is there to lighten the mood.  

At the stage door, they are just as friendly and grateful for the public that sees their show.   They greeted the fans with words like “friend”. Each was sure to thank everyone for coming out.  Led by Andy Karl, they were honest about how they felt the final show would be;   “emotional” and “crazy” were the terms used.

“Groundhog Day: The Musical will have had 176 performances when it closes tomorrow.   The night will-and has- come, but “there will be sun” the next day.



#GroundhogDayThe Musical #GroundhogDayBway














Here are some photos of the cast of  "Groundhog Day: The Musical":

Rebecca Faulkenberry (Nancy)

Andrew Call (Gus/Billy the Bartender)

Katy Geraghty (Debbie)

Gerard Canonico (Fred)

Travis Waldschmidt( Jeff)

Michael Fatica (Chubby Man)

Josh Lamon (Buster)

Tari Kelly(Piano Teacher/Mrs. Cleveland)

Vishal Vaidya (Larry)

Barrett Doss (Rita Hanson)

Sean Montgomery (Sheriff)


Raymond J. Lee (Ralph)

William Parry (Jenson)

Jenna Rubaii (Joelle/Doctor)

Andy Karl (Phil Connors)
Joseph Medeiros(Deputy/Mr. Cleveland)

Wednesday, September 13, 2017

“Bandstand” Goeth ; “The Iceman Cometh”

“Bandstand” is the second in a series of Broadway shows to close this September. The show stars Corey Cott and Laura Osnes as two characters who live in post-WWII Cleveland. It is set in backdrop of soldiers returning from the home front.  As they re-adjust, the young men do what they can to forget their experiences. Then the news of a national contest to find a swing band has one group of veterans and a soldier’s widow turning to performing music to find some peace.

I had the honor of seeing this show September 10th, 2017. The dancing and music were worth the wait. As the story unfolds, the audience gets drawn into the story of the Donny Nova Band featuring Julia Trojan.  Through the highs and lows as the story unfolds, you see how each character is coping; and you learn that the “ghosts” (played by ensemble actors) that haunt their memories of the war. However, you leave the show knowing that the characters will be slowly getting back into their lives at home as they try hard to get back “the way it was before”. Corey Cott (Donny) and Laura Osnes (Julia) really lose themselves in their characters. This show that will have had over 160 performances at the time it concludes on September 17th, 2017. It is a high-energy show that features choreography that won Andy Blankenbuehler a well-deserved 2017 Tony Award. I salute this wonderful show for what it has done to honor the men and women of the armed forces.

#BandTogether #GotYour6












So, before “The Iceman Cometh” comes into the Bernard B. Jacobs Theatre next year, here are a few photos of the “Bandstand” cast:


 Joey Pero (Nick Radel)

Corey Cott (Donny Novitski)

Laura Osnes (Julia Trojan)


Geoff Packard (Wayne Wright)

Max Clayton (Ensemble)
Brandon J. Ellis (Davy Zlatic)


Friday, September 1, 2017

“Natasha, Pierre & The Great Comet of 1812” To Close September 3rd, 2017: A Look Back

For less than a year, the Imperial Theater has been the home of the operetta “Natasha Pierre & The Great Comet of 1812”, a creation of Dave Malloy. This production grew a following through small theater runs and had finally made it to Broadway headlined by Josh Groban and Denee Benton.  Due to a low advance in ticket sales, this show will close on September 3rd, 2017.It will have had 32 previews and over 340 performances at the time of its closing.

I saw this show twice during its run, and enjoyed the immersive theater experience.   This show will be missed.


#FollowTheComet










Here are photos of the show’s cast (and one of its orchestra members):


Dave Malloy (Pierre, Creator)-Photo: Stars In The Alley 2017 #DareToDream



Josh Groban (Pierre)-Photo: 2/7/2013 Barnes and Noble CD Signing  #DareToDream



Lulu Fall (Ensemble)-Photo: Broadway In Bryant Park 2017 #DareToDream



Joey Cassata (Drummer-Orchestra) -Photo: 7/28/2017- Rubix Cube's 10th Anniversary/David Z Tribute Show(w/ Paulie Z) #Joeylicious #Zo24ever

Monday, July 31, 2017

Photos From Rubix Kube's 10th Anniversary Show/David Z Tribute

Marquee Outside Irving Plaza

Paulie Z and Constantine Maroulis Performing Guns N' Roses "Sweet Child of Mine"

Paulie Z and Russell Allen of Adrenaline Mob gather at the end with everyone to sing Journey's "Don't Stop Believing"


Lucia Marco, Rubix Kube and Paulie Z on stage

"The Year was 1980 Something"(Adam F. Goldberg): Rubix Kube’s 10th Anniversary Show/David Z Tribute

July 28th, 2017-New York, NY- 80’s tribute band Rubix Kube was scheduled to appear at Irving Plaza to commemorate their 10th anniversary. Based on their preview and YouTube videos, one can see that their show includes 80’s song covers complete with costumes. It looked like a night of nostalgia was certainly to be had.

On July 14th, 2017, Rubix Kube got word that their co-founder and bassist David Z, touring with the band Adrenaline Mob, had sadly lost his life in a traffic accident.  They announced they would still do the Irving Plaza show as scheduled in his memory. Eric Martin of the group Mr. Big, was already confirmed as a special guest for the anniversary show. As the day approached, Rubix Kube announced other artists had reached out to them requesting to perform tributes to honor the late David Z. Among the early additions were David’s brother (and ZO2 bandmate) Paulie Z, his sister-in-law Lucia Marco, and his friend Chris Jericho. Other names to follow would include: Constantine Maroulis, Sean Altman of Rockapella, Jen Cella and Angus Clark of Trans-Siberian Orchestra(TSO) with whom David Z had performed for 15 years, Adrenaline Mob's lead singer Russell Allen, and Paulie and David's brother Brian.

The show was very entertaining.  Rubix Kube brought to the stage renditions of 1980's classics with enthusiasm. Their MTV-style entrance to the stage included a "moonman" and band members entering from a telephone booth a la "Bill and Ted".  They got right into their set by performing Van Halen's "Jump" and Journey's "Anyway You Want It".

With the crowd now engaged, The tribute portion of the show got underway.  Frontwoman Cherie Martorana welcomed those gathered in Irving Plaza and said a few words about David Z.  The majority of the night was organized by him, and would include songs he had always liked to perform (including a medley of Mister Mister songs). They had guests lined up who would come out to tell the audience about him.  When mentioning the many things he wanted to do, Cherie made it clear Rubix Kube would work to make those ideas a reality.

While the show was somber in some spots, it was a fun night of 80's rock and memories. Videos of David Z were shown on the screen behind the stage showing the creative and silly side of the late bassist.  His brother, Paulie Z, factored heavily into the show as a performer on multiple songs that night including "Jukebox Hero" by Foreigner and Rush's "Limelight".  Fozzy frontman-and WWE superstar-Chris Jericho came out with guitarist Rich Ward to perform Ozzy Osbourne's "Crazy Train" and drifted around the stage the rest of the show. TSO members Jen Cella and Angus Clark were greeted with an ovation when they came to the stage. Eddie Ojeda of Twisted Sister came out to play guitar for Twisted Sister hit songs "I Wanna Rock" and "We're Not Gonna Take It". Special Guest Eric Martin of Mr.Big conveyed his kind words before beginning his 3 song set. ZO2 drummer Joey Cassata showed up after that night's production of "Natasha Pierre & The Great Comet Of 1812" (where he is a member of the orchestra) to assist on a performance of the theme from Rocky III, Survivor's "Eye of The Tiger", while a video of David Z played showing him running towards, then up, the steps of the Philadelphia Museum.

Those that came out to honor David Z spoke really well of him. One could tell he was well-liked and respected in the music community On stage, the announcement of the David Z Scholarship Fund was met with applause. With the proceeds from that night's concert as a beginning, the fund would assist the talented in culinary and musical arts.  Also, webmasters were hard at work on the site "What Would David Do?", a creative space meant to inspire; the band threw out stickers promoting the site.  

Rubix Kube took time out to address the Adrenaline Mob colleagues of David Z, who were also involved in the traffic incident on July 14. Cherie dedicated a song to that group's tour manager Jane Train, who is still recuperating.  At the end of the night, the lead singer Russell Allen slowly came out to join the entire ensemble of guests and Rubix Kube; their version of Journey's "Don't Stop Believing" was the perfect way to end the evening.

On July 28th, 2017, The 80's tribute group Rubix Kube celebrated 10 years as a group.  Their show at Irving Plaza entertained as well as paid respects to their fallen comrade. Those in the crowd turned out to honor him as well, and to sing along to their favorite songs. Some went home with a token of appreciation-be it a drum stick from Rubix Kube's John LaSpina or Joey Cassata, a guitar pick from Eddie Ojeda, a sticker, or a tribute poster of the late David Z.

To quote Rubix Kube's postcard, allow me to say in closing:"Rock In Peace, David Z!"    

Sources:http://test.rubixkube.com/portfolio-item/about-rubix-kube/; Rubix Kube's Facebook Page

Saturday, July 15, 2017

"War Paint" at Barnes and Noble Appearance: In Pictures

After the conversation, the cameras lined up to photograph them

Patti Lupone pre-signed CD booklets because she was unwell; Scott Frankel and Christine Ebersole were there to greet the public 

You can see "War Paint" at the Nederlander Theater

"War Paint" at Barnes and Noble Appearance: In Pictures

The "War Paint" cast recording CD was released July 14th, 2017 

The stage was set for Scott Frankel, Patti Lupone, and Christine Ebersole

The trio had a conversation about their show"War Paint" among other topics

Barnes & Noble Presents: “War Paint” Discussion/Cast Recording CD Signing

July 14th, 2017-New York, New York- the 86th Street and Lexington Avenue Barnes & Noble celebrated the release of the “War Paint” cast recording.  Scott Frankel-the composer who collaborated with Michael Korie to create the show’s music- was on hand to moderate a discussion and sign CDs. He was joined by the leading ladies portraying Helena Rubenstein and Elizabeth Arden: Patti Lupone (Rubenstein) and Christine Ebersole (Arden).

The doors opened at 9am to admit those waiting outside on a rainy morning.  Store staff directed everyone to the main floor cashiers to purchase their CDs.  With the event due to start at 2:30pm, some opted to go out and get food before coming back while others wandered around the store to stay out of the rain.

Around 10:45am, the beginnings of a line took shape by the Events Center on the lower level.  The line would wind around the aisles.  Everyone talked amongst themselves and awaited the opening of the doors. Staffers from Barnes & Noble came around to do a headcount and deliver occasional instructions. 

At 1:00pm, an announcement was made that Patti Lupone was not feeling that great (“in a lot of pain”) and would not be able to be there for the signing portion of the program. However, she would stay for the discussion and pre-sign everyone’s CD booklets so that they would get her autograph.  All one had to do was show either their receipt or CD case so the staff could ensure the correct amount of booklets were returned during the meet and greet with Scott Frankel and Christine Ebersole .

When the room was set up, Sean from Barnes & Noble let the crowd in according to wristband color. The crowd was such that a barrier outside the event doors had been set up near a close circuit TV showing the discussion. Those with white wristbands were let into the Event Center and others (with green wristbands) would be admitted if there were seats to fill. The rest were relegated to staying behind the barrier until those in the room had left the signing.

Quick instructions were given about photography (no flash photography allowed) before Steve Sorrentino introduced Scott Frankel.  Frankel introduced Christine Ebersole and Patti Lupone. The conversation began with questions to each of them about their “11:00 Numbers”-power song moments:  Lupone’s “Forever Beautiful” and Ebersole’s “Pink”. To this question, Lupone found “it hard to describe its (“Forever Beautiful”) meaning while Ebersole called her song("Pink") “an aria”.

The topics fell into place easily as the trio conversed. Ebersole plugged her cabaret shows at the club 54 Below taking place on Monday (the show’s off day) during September, October, November  of 2017.   Praise as a “must have” for the ”War Paint” cast recording from the New York Times sparked a lively debate on whether fans listen to the critic reviews; the power of the critic to affect ticket sales was addressed (Lupone remarked that their show was never a New York Times “Must-See”). At the end, the trio went off topic and explained the significance of “Bastille Day” (July 14th).

After the conversation, the press photographers lined up to take their photos of the cast for their pieces.  Patti Lupone left as she was unwell.  Scott Frankel and Christine Ebersol got situated for the signing.  Staffers directed the left hand side to line up. Each was given a booklet pre-signed by Patti Lupone before stepping up to meet Scott and Christine.  The procession moved along, and soon the center row was gathering toward the back of the room.  The guests treated everyone well.

In closing, I am certain that “War Paint” has a trio of people that really understand the theater. Their observations about the characters were insightful.  Patti Lupone’s quest to explore the character of Helena Rubenstein is something that is important to her.  Ebersole thinks this show accomplishes what the Rubenstein and Elizabeth Arden never got the chance to do-despite the fact that their offices were so close together. Finally, the best quotes came from Frankel when he relates the secrets of a long running show’s success: it lies in giving actors time to understand their characters and pull different aspects of that on different nights.


For the curious, you can find Christine Ebersole and Patti Lupone in “War Paint” at the Nederlander Theatre. 

Tuesday, June 13, 2017

Gathering Broadway’s Usual Suspects: Kevin Spacey Hosts The Tony Awards

 June 11th, 2017- The 71st Annual Tony Awards was hosted by “The Usual Suspects”( and numerous other projects on stage and screen) actor Kevin Spacey.  He opened the show with a montage about the quest to host the night in question, spoofing “Dear Evan Hansen” among other nominated shows along the way...He was a man of many faces throughout the night, bringing out impressions of Johnny Carson, Bill Clinton, and even his character from the show “House of Cards” Frank Underwood…His vocal talents were on display as he closed out the show with a Bobby Darin song in an ensemble finale with the night’s winners and Patti LuPone… I personally enjoyed his interaction with Chazz Palminteri -of “A Bronx Tale” and Spacey’s interrogator in “The Usual Suspects”

A Moment of Reflection on a Stage Not So Far Away…: Mark Hamill of the “Star Wars” film franchise introduced the montage of those the Broadway community lost this past year… To the classic Boyz II Men hit “It’s So Hard to Say Goodbye (To Yesterday)”, the video screen showed images across the marquee-like video screen. Led off by Carrie Fisher (Hamill’s “Star Wars” co-star), the tribute included other names such as Fisher’s mother, Debbie Reynolds and Mary Tyler Moore (Broadway Barks” co-host for many years and supporter of the arts).

When Plays Reflect Real Life: Some of the winning shows were based on true events. “Oslo” won for Best Play; Best Actor in a Featured Role in a Play went to this show’s Michael Aronov… “Indecent” had a decent night with Rebecca Taichman taking home the Tony for Best Direction of a Play and Christopher Akerlind winning for Best Lighting Design of a play.

Present to “Present Laughter”: Kevin Kline won his third Tony Award for his lead acting role in “Present Laughter”. His acceptance speech was low-key and humble as he thanked his family, the arts foundations, and mentors that made him what he is today and everyone in general.

Before the Band Plays Me Off….: In one of the more interesting moments of the night, Bette Midler’s acceptance speech for the Best Actress in a Leading Role in a Musical topped the billing in grand statements that would not be silenced by the show’s house orchestra. Midler practically yelled over the music before getting the time to thank the “Hello Dolly!” actresses that came before…Her speech also affirmed that the role of theater is to provide an escape in the troubling times in which we live.  Shows such as “Hello Dolly!” will always do that for people, and I am glad she reminded people of that.

Natasha, Pierre &The Two-Time Winner at the Tony Awards of 2017: The scenic and lighting design for “Natasha, Pierre & The Great Comet of 1812” was recognized as Mimi Lien and Bradley King each took home the Tony for their superb work transforming the Imperial Theater into a Russian parlor.

Hello Tony!: “Hello Dolly!” was a big winner last night…Besides Bette Midler, the show’s costume designer Santo Loquasto and featured actor Gavin Creel were honored for their work…”Hello Dolly!” also received the Tony Award for Best Revival of a Musical

One-Time Winners: Some shows walked off with just one award while some walked off with their first Tony awards…Nigel Hook won for his scenic design of “The Play That Goes Wrong”…Andy Blankenbuehler got a deserving honor for his choreography of the musical “Bandstand”… “Come From Away” ‘s Christopher Ashley got the Tony Award for Best Direction of A Musical…Laurie Metcalf received her first Tony Award for her leading role in “A Doll’s House Part 2”….”August Wilson’s Jitney” won Best Revival of a Play.

Sly “Foxes”:  “Lillian Hellman’s The Little Foxes” won two awards last night. Jane Greenwood was given a Tony for costume design…Rotating lead/feature actress Cynthia Nixon won for her role, and was one of a few that night to use the awards podium to make a statement.

“Dear Evan Hansen” Goes For 6: Being topical can benefit a show. Case In Point: “Dear Evan Hansen”, a “socially relevant” entrant among this year’s nominees.  It was the big winner of the original musical categories, netting 6 awards during the course of the evening, including: Best Orchestration (Alex Lacamoire), Best Book (Steven Levenson), Best Score (Ben Pasek and Justin Paul), Best Featured Actress (Rachel Bay Jones), Best Lead Actor (Ben Platt), and the highest honor of the night of Best Musical

If I Had My Time Any Other Year: I want to take this moment to acknowledge the original musical that got shut out of the Tony Awards this year. “Groundhog Day the Musical” was praised and honored by London’s theater community with wins for the lead actor Andy Karl as well as the show itself…Prior to the Tonys, Andy Karl won the outstanding actor in a musical from both the Outer Critics Circle and Drama Desk. On Broadway’s biggest night however, the year was very competitive. During the evening, “The Great Comet” performed a medley of songs from their show; while “Come From Away”, “Dear Evan Hansen”, and “Groundhog Day the Musical” showcased one number…The “Groundhog Day the Musical” cast performed the show’s finale “Seeing You” for the audience at Radio City Music Hall and the viewers at home. This number expressed the heart of the show. #championsadjust-“Groundhog Day the Musical” cast motto (courtesy of @andy_karl)


Give My Regards to Broadway: It was quite a night to honor Broadway’s best. Relevancy and timeliness was the theme of the night, and technical skill was rewarded…Legends were honored and new legacies created...Bette Midler would not let the awards show pass by without having her say… and people watching saw the many entertaining faces of Kevin Spacey…Now that the awards are handed out, I encourage the reader to see the works honored last night to experience live theater; there is truly nothing like it.

Friday, June 9, 2017

Stars In The Alley 2017-Part 9

Shubert Alley is lined with Broadway Show Posters(Pictured: "Cats" and "Groundhog Day The Musical")

Posters for "The Book Of Mormon", "Natasha, Pierre and the Great Comet of 1812", "Oslo", "Chicago"

The Tony Awards are this Sunday, June 11th, 2017 at 8:00 pm/7:00pm Central on CBS

Stars In The Alley:In Pictures-Part 8

"A Bronx Tale"

"Anastasia"

"On Your Feet! The Story of Emilio & Gloria Estefan"

Cast of the latest revival of "Hello Dolly!" watched Stars In The Alley 2017 from above

Stars In The Alley:In Pictures-Part 7

Stars In The Alley 2017 Social Media Host Brandon Uranowitz

"Wicked"

"Jitney"

"Natasha, Pierre and The Great Comet of 1812"