2015–2016 season content guide - scfta.org · with a rich and beautiful musical score, ... this...

2
42 ND STREET – November 10–22, 2015 STORY The quintessential backstage musical comedy classic, 42 nd Street is the song and dance fable of Broadway with an American Dream story and includes some of the greatest songs ever written, such as “We’re In The Money,” “Lullaby of Broadway,” “Shuffle Off To Buffalo,” “Dames,” “I Only Have Eyes For You” and of course “42 nd Street.” Based on a novel by Bradford Ropes and Busby Berkeley’s 1933 movie, 42 nd Street tells the story of a starry-eyed young dancer named Peggy Sawyer who leaves her Allentown home and comes to New York to audition for the new Broadway musical Pretty Lady. When the star breaks her ankle, Peggy takes over and becomes a star. With a book by Michael Stewart and Mark Bramble, music by Harry Warren and lyrics by Al Dubin, this sparkling new production will be directed by co-author Mark Bramble and choreographed by Randy Skinner, the team who staged the 2001 Tony ® Award-winning Best Musical Revival. What is it like? 42 nd Street is a faithfully staged version of one of the most familiar Broadway shows of all time and features classic dance sequences and many familiar songs. Is it good for kids? Yes. Kinetic and jubilant, the show is Broadway’s paean to itself and to all things musical theater and is appropriate for children of all ages. THE BOOK OF MORMON – March 22–April 3, 2016 STORY The Book of Mormon follows two young missionaries who are sent to Uganda to try to convert citizens to the Mormon religion. One missionary, Elder Price, is an enthusiastic go-getter with a strong dedication to his faith, while his partner, Elder Cunningham, is a socially awkward but well-meaning nerd whose tendency to embroider the truth soon lands him in trouble. Upon their arrival in Africa, Elders Price and Cunningham learn that in a society plagued by AIDS, poverty and violence, a successful mission may not be as easy as they expected. What is it like? Composed by South Park creators Trey Parker and Matt Stone and Avenue Q’s Robert Lopez, The Book of Mormon is an old-style musical with a modern sensibility. This blockbuster show features several big song-and-dance numbers accompanied by some old-fashioned Broadway belting. An equal opportunity offender, the show playfully pokes fun at religion, sexuality, poverty and race, while inspiring an after-the-show discussion of religion in general. Is it good for kids? The Book of Mormon plays fast and loose with explicit language and adult themes, and is not recommended for children under 16. CABARET – August 9–21, 2016 STORY Welcome to the infamous Kit Kat Klub, where the Emcee, Sally Bowles and a raucous ensemble take the stage nightly to tantalize the crowd––and to leave their troubles outside. But as life in pre-WWII Germany grows more and more uncertain, will the decadent allure of Berlin nightlife be enough to get them through their dangerous times? Come hear some of the most memorable songs in theatre history, including “Cabaret,” “Willkommen” and “Maybe This Time.” What is it like? This is classic, contemporary Broadway at its best. It pairs a heart-wrenching story of aching romance along with an unparalleled historical tragedy: the fate of Jews in Germany during World War II. Furthermore, Kander and Ebb bring their renowned edginess, adding an element of sex and mystique to this rich and beautiful story, along with a magnificent score including timeless hits such as “Don’t Tell Mama,” “Two Ladies,” “Tomorrow Belongs to Me,” “Money,” “If You Could See Her” and the title song, “Cabaret.” Right this way, your table’s waiting for an iconic, Tony ® Award-winning experience about following your heart while the world loses its way. Is it good for kids? The show is best suited for those over the age of 16 due to adult themes in the show. DISNEY’S THE LION KING – October 6–November 1, 2015 STORY A lively stage adaptation of the Academy Award-winning 1994 Disney film, The Lion King is the story of a young lion prince living in the flourishing African Pride Lands. Born into the royal family, precocious cub Simba spends his days exploring the sprawling savanna grasslands and idolizing his kingly father, Mufasa, while youthfully shirking the responsibility his position in life requires. When an unthinkable tragedy, orchestrated by Simba’s wicked uncle, Scar, takes his father’s life, Simba flees the Pride Lands, leaving his loss and the life he knew behind. Eventually companioned by two hilarious and unlikely friends, Simba starts anew. But when weight of responsibility and a desperate plea from the now ravaged Pride Lands come to find the adult prince, Simba must take on a formidable enemy, and fulfill his destiny to be king. A vibrant and exciting tale from the great creatives at Disney, The Lion King is a story of love and redemption that nobody should miss. What is it like? With a pulsing spectacle driven by primal African rhythms, unforgettable tunes (including Elton John and Tim Rice’s Oscar-winning “Can You Feel the Love Tonight”) and a jaw-dropping display of exotic African wildlife brought to life onstage, there are good reasons why The Lion King won a half-dozen Tony ® Awards in 1998. Intensely physical stage work and countless visual surprises hold your attention from start to finish. Is it good for kids? Simba’s creepy journey into an elephant graveyard and the death of his father can be as unsettling to young viewers as they were in the original film, but if your brood can handle the movie, there’s no reason not to see it live. You can bet your bottom dollar on Disney’s reliably family friendly fare. Everyone is different: We understand not all productions may appeal to or be appropriate for all audience members, especially children. We encourage patrons to familiarize themselves with the presentations in order to make informed decisions prior to purchasing tickets. Please use this content guide as well as the show’s official websites as resources in helping determine if a production is right for you and your family. 2015–2016 Season Content Guide

Upload: vuongcong

Post on 22-Jul-2018

212 views

Category:

Documents


0 download

TRANSCRIPT

42ND STREET – November 10–22, 2015STORY The quintessential backstage musical comedy classic, 42nd Street is the song and dance fable of Broadway with an American Dream story and includes some of the greatest songs ever written, such as “We’re In The Money,” “Lullaby of Broadway,” “Shuffl e Off To Buffalo,” “Dames,” “I Only Have Eyes For You” and of course “42nd Street.”

Based on a novel by Bradford Ropes and Busby Berkeley’s 1933 movie, 42nd Street tells the story of a starry-eyed young dancer named Peggy Sawyer who leaves her Allentown home and comes to New York to audition for the new Broadway musical Pretty Lady. When the star breaks her ankle, Peggy takes over and becomes a star. With a book by Michael Stewart and Mark Bramble, music by Harry Warren and lyrics by Al Dubin, this sparkling new production will be directed by co-author Mark Bramble and choreographed by Randy Skinner, the team who staged the 2001 Tony® Award-winning Best Musical Revival.

What is it like? 42nd Street is a faithfully staged version of one of the most familiar Broadway shows of all time and features classic dance sequences and many familiar songs.

Is it good for kids? Yes. Kinetic and jubilant, the show is Broadway’s paean to itself and to all things musical theater and is appropriate for children of all ages.

THE BOOK OF MORMON – March 22–April 3, 2016STORY The Book of Mormon follows two young missionaries who are sent to Uganda to try to convert citizens to the Mormon religion. One missionary, Elder Price, is an enthusiastic go-getter with a strong dedication to his faith, while his partner, Elder Cunningham, is a socially awkward but well-meaning nerd whose tendency to embroider the truth soon lands him in trouble. Upon their arrival in Africa, Elders Price and Cunningham learn that in a society plagued by AIDS, poverty and violence, a successful mission may not be as easy as they expected.

What is it like? Composed by South Park creators Trey Parker and Matt Stone and Avenue Q’s Robert Lopez, The Book of Mormon is an old-style musical with a modern sensibility. This blockbuster show features several big song-and-dance numbers accompanied by some old-fashioned Broadway belting. An equal opportunity offender, the show playfully pokes fun at religion, sexuality, poverty and race, while inspiring an after-the-show discussion of religion in general.

Is it good for kids? The Book of Mormon plays fast and loose with explicit language and adult themes, and is not recommended for children under 16.

CABARET – August 9–21, 2016STORY Welcome to the infamous Kit Kat Klub, where the Emcee, Sally Bowles and a raucous ensemble take the stage nightly to tantalize the crowd––and to leave their troubles outside. But as life in pre-WWII Germany grows more and more uncertain, will the decadent allure of Berlin nightlife be enough to get them through their dangerous times? Come hear some of the most memorable songs in theatre history, including “Cabaret,” “Willkommen” and

“Maybe This Time.”

What is it like? This is classic, contemporary Broadway at its best. It pairs a heart-wrenching story of aching romance along with an unparalleled historical tragedy: the fate of Jews in Germany during World War II. Furthermore, Kander and Ebb bring their renowned edginess, adding an element of sex and mystique to this rich and beautiful story, along with a magnifi cent score including timeless hits such as “Don’t Tell Mama,” “Two Ladies,”

“Tomorrow Belongs to Me,” “Money,” “If You Could See Her” and the title song, “Cabaret.” Right this way, your table’s waiting for an iconic, Tony® Award-winning experience about following your heart while the world loses its way.

Is it good for kids? The show is best suited for those over the age of 16 due to adult themes in the show.

DISNEY’S THE LION KING – October 6–November 1, 2015STORY A lively stage adaptation of the Academy Award-winning 1994 Disney fi lm, The Lion King is the story of a young lion prince living in the fl ourishing African Pride Lands. Born into the royal family, precocious cub Simba spends his days exploring the sprawling savanna grasslands and idolizing his kingly father, Mufasa, while youthfully shirking the responsibility his position in life requires. When an unthinkable tragedy, orchestrated by Simba’s wicked uncle, Scar, takes his father’s life, Simba fl ees the Pride Lands, leaving his loss and the life he knew behind. Eventually companioned by two hilarious and unlikely friends, Simba starts anew. But when weight of responsibility and a desperate plea from the now ravaged Pride Lands come to fi nd the adult prince, Simba must take on a formidable enemy, and fulfi ll his destiny to be king. A vibrant and exciting tale from the great creatives at Disney, The Lion King is a story of love and redemption that nobody should miss.

What is it like? With a pulsing spectacle driven by primal African rhythms, unforgettable tunes (including Elton John and Tim Rice’s Oscar-winning “Can You Feel the Love Tonight”) and a jaw-dropping display of exotic African wildlife brought to life onstage, there are good reasons why The Lion King won a half-dozen Tony® Awards in 1998. Intensely physical stage work and countless visual surprises hold your attention from start to fi nish.

Is it good for kids? Simba’s creepy journey into an elephant graveyard and the death of his father can be as unsettling to young viewers as they were in the original fi lm, but if your brood can handle the movie, there’s no reason not to see it live. You can bet your bottom dollar on Disney’s reliably family friendly fare.

Everyone is different: We understand not all productions may appeal to or be appropriate for all audience members, especially children. We encourage patrons to familiarize themselves with the presentations in order to make informed decisions prior to purchasing tickets. Please use this content guide as well as the show’s offi cial websites as resources in helping determine if a production is right for you and your family.

2015–2016 Season Content Guide

IF/THEN – January 19–24, 2016STORY If/Then is a contemporary Broadway musical about living in New York today—and all the possibilities of tomorrow. With unforgettable songs and a deeply moving story by the Pulitzer Prize and Tony® Award-winning creators of Next to Normal, this “fascinating, ambitious, and original new musical (New York Post)” simultaneously follows one woman’s two possible life paths, painting a deeply moving portrait of the lives we lead, as well as the lives we might have led.

What is it like? With a rich and beautiful musical score, the show also incorporates interesting design elements. The show is structured in a Sliding Doors style where two possible scenarios of one character’s life play out side by side. In this case, two possible paths for Elizabeth are shown as the stories of

“Liz” and “Beth,” where the former takes the advice of one friend and the latter takes the advice of another. Likewise, the design of the show fluctuates between red and blue color schemes in order to differentiate the two stories.

Is it good for kids? Due to strong adult themes as well as adult language, the show is recommended for people over the age of 12.

THE ILLUSIONISTS – February 2–7, 2016STORY This mind blowing spectacular showcases the jaw dropping talents of the most incredible illusionists on earth. The Illusionists – Live From Broadway has shattered box office records across the globe and dazzles audiences of all ages with a powerful mix of the most outrageous and astonishing acts ever to be seen on stage. This non-stop show is packed with thrilling and sophisticated magic of unprecedented proportions.

What is it like? This spectacular production features seven of the world’s most outrageously talented illusionists—namely, Andrew Basso, Jeff Hobson, Aaron Crow, Kevin James, Yu Ho-Jin, Adam Trent, and Dan Sperry.

This is billed as more than just a magic show—it is chock full of illusions that will absolutely dazzle children and adults of all ages. The title says it all—it allows the audience to witness the impossible. Broadway has never seen magic quite like this before.

Is it good for kids? Yes! Children of all ages will be amazed by the spectacles and tricks.

NEWSIES – May 17–29, 2016STORY They delivered the papers, until they made the headlines…direct from Broadway comes Newsies, the smash-hit, crowd-pleasing new musical from Disney. Winner of the 2012 Tony® Awards for Best Score and Best Choreography, Newsies has audiences and critics alike calling it “A musical worth singing about!” (The New York Times) Filled with one heart-pounding number after another, it’s a high-energy explosion of song and dance you just don’t want to miss.

Based on true events, Newsies tells the captivating story of a band of underdogs who become unlikely heroes when they stand up to the most powerful men in New York. It’s a rousing tale about fighting for what’s right…and staying true to who you are.

What is it like? Newsies is a fast-paced new musical with jaw-dropping choreography and catchy songs by eight-time Oscar winner Alan Menken (Beauty and the Beast, The Little Mermaid), that theatergoers of all ages will enjoy. This is a feel-good family musical that will introduce Newsies to a new generation while pleasing fans of the original 1992 film. The Broadway production includes many of the songs from the movie as well as new tunes and an added love story between Jack Kelly and the new character Katherine Plumber.

Is it good for kids? Absolutely! Newsies is definitely a musical for the whole family. There is no foul language and the steamiest part of the show is a kiss between the romantic leads. Overall, it’s one of the most enjoyable Broadway shows for kids and parents alike.

RIVERDANCE – January 1–3, 2016STORY Drawing on Irish traditions, the combined talents of the performers propel Irish dancing and music into the present day, capturing the imagination of audiences across all ages and cultures in an innovative and exciting blend of dance, music and song. Of all the performances to emerge from Ireland—in rock, music, theatre and film—nothing has carried the energy and the spectacle of Riverdance.

What is it like? Riverdance is a spectacle of light and sound; a celebration of traditional Irish dance writ large. The show has been a beloved worldwide institution for more than 20 years.

Is it good for kids? Yes. Riverdance can be enjoyed by dance fans of all ages.

RODGERS + HAMMERSTEIN’S CINDERELLA – April 19–May1, 2016STORY Rodgers + Hammerstein’s Cinderella is the Tony® Award-winning Broadway musical from the creators of Oklahoma! and The King and I that’s delighting audiences with its contemporary take on the classic tale. This lush production features an incredible orchestra, jaw-dropping transformations and all the moments you love—the pumpkin, the glass slipper, the masked ball and more—plus some surprising new twists! Be transported back to your childhood as you rediscover some of Rodgers + Hammerstein’s most beloved songs, including “In My Own Little Corner,” “Impossible/It’s Possible” and

“Ten Minutes Ago,” in this hilarious and romantic Broadway experience for anyone who’s ever had a wish, a dream... or a really great pair of shoes.

What is it like? Broadway’s first staging of Rodgers + Hammerstein’s Cinderella offers audiences the best of both worlds: The magic and romance of the classic fairytale is brought to life within a contemporary script featuring several new subplots (a young Prince trying to find himself, a revolution brewing in the kingdom, a stepsister’s romance, and more). The two-act musical features fantastic performances and plenty of laughs for both adults and children. Audiences can expect to see instantaneous costume changes, a flying fairy godmother and many beloved songs.

Is it good for kids? Of course! Cinderella is perfect for kids: Colorful costumes, onstage magic and comic performances make this musical a great early Broadway outing for young theatergoers. Parents should take note that the show runs just over two and a half hours.

THE SOUND OF MUSIC – July 19–31, 2016STORY The hills are alive! A brand new production of The Sound of Music, directed by Jack O’Brien, is coming to you. The spirited, romantic and beloved musical story of Maria and the Von Trapp Family will once again thrill audiences with its Tony®-, Grammy®- and Academy Award®-winning Best Score, including “My Favorite Things,” “Do-Re-Mi,” “Climb Ev’ry Mountain,” “Edelweiss” and the title song.

“We plan to look more closely at this remarkable work—to tear off the varnish of the past and reveal one of the great, fresh glories of musical theater,” says three-time Tony Award®-winning director Jack O’Brien.

What is it like? The Sound of Music is a gorgeously performed tribute to the beloved, Academy Award-winning 1965 film that combines nostalgia with social commentary.

Is it good for kids? Absolutely. The Sound of Music is one of the most beloved musicals of all time, full of wonderful songs and great visuals appropriate for children of all ages.

WICKED – February 17–March 6, 2016STORY A vivid reimagining of the classic The Wizard of Oz, Wicked spotlights the untold stories of Oz’s most famous (or infamous) characters, namely the Wicked Witch of the West and her unlikely friend, Glinda the Good. The show follows green-skinned star Elphaba from birth to college and through the life-changing events which eventually label her “wicked,” introducing spoiled rich girl Glinda, local prince and heartthrob Fiyero and even the Wizard of Oz himself, a troubled man very unlike the one you may remember. As Elphaba, a passionate political activist if there ever was one, fights injustice and seeks to undo the mistakes of the past, dark secrets and personal tragedies shape the history of Oz, paying homage to the classic Wizard of Oz story while simultaneously changing fans’ understanding of it forever. A cautionary tale about love, friendship and trust, Wicked effortlessly reveals that there are indeed two sides to every story.

What is it like? Visually stunning, Wicked boasts a soaring score from Stephen Schwartz (Godspell, Pippin), Tony® Award-winning sets and costumes and some of the most gravity-defying moments of any show you’ve ever seen!

Is it good for kids? Like The Wizard of Oz, Wicked is the definition of family-friendly. But like the classic 1939 movie, younger children may find it too long or be frightened by the show’s flying monkeys, allusions to offstage violence and death of a character. Most children over eight, however, will be delighted by the world of Wicked.