Broadway musicals – An Entertaining Idea

Have you heard about 2016 BroadwayCon?

Published on February 27, 2015March 2, 2015 by Kelly DeenyLeave a comment

Calling all Broadway fans! We’re getting our own convention!!!!

As you can tell from my overuse of exclamation points, I’m just “slightly” excited about the announcement of this event. I love theatre and am passionate about it’s ability to entertain, inform, and inspire. I support the art form and have great respect for the gifted artists on stage and behind the scenes who bring these shows to us 8 days a week for months, years, or decades.

Photo credit: Permission from 2016 BroadwayCon helpers!

The first-ever convention for Broadway artists and their fans takes place at the New York Hilton Midtown hotel from January 22-24, 2016. Tickets go on sale March 15, 2015 but check out the website to learn more about the ticket package options. Don’t delay or ponder, as you just may miss an opportunity to share in this inaugural event.

The BroadwayCon team just announced the first thirteen guests, which include artists I’ve seen perform live (Gavin Creel in Thoroughly Modern Millie, Jason Tam in A Chorus Line, and Andy Mientus in the recent revival of Les Misérables) and ones whose names I know but haven’t witnessed their talent firsthand. I’ve waited at the stage door after many a performance and saw the mutual admiration between the fans and the artists. The performers stop to sign souvenir books, take selfies, and say “Hello” to theatre-goers of all ages. I’m always grateful for the opportunity to tell them their work is appreciated and that they did a great job.

This conference sets the stage (*wink, wink*) for fans, artists, producers, and more to interact with and learn from one another. What an amazing opportunity for all of us!

Please visit the BroadwayCon website for the full range of details about tickets, special guests, hotel info, and more.

*DISCLAIMER: No endorsement from the BroadwayCon organizers, their affiliates, sponsors, or artists involved is implied.*

Musical Theatre Review: Les Misérables

Published on June 5, 2014April 9, 2015 by Kelly Deeny1 Comment

A haunting re-telling of a Broadway classic, the current staging of Les Misérables embodies all the aspects of the show that fans love with a rawness that adds a new perspective.

Throughout 25+ years and many adaptations, Les Misérables remains a beloved musical. With the newest Broadway revival gracing the Imperial Theatre’s stage, an entirely new generation of theatre-goers get to experience the sweeping music, powerhouse vocals, and moving story.

I was thoroughly impressed and moved to tears during a recent Saturday matinée performance, and here are just a few reasons why:

MUSIC AND LYRICS: Claude-Michel Schönberg and Alain Boublil’s tremendous score and profound lyrics lives with you long after the curtain closes. This treasured musical makes in indelible impression on not only the performers but the audience, due in large part to the incredible music. The melodies float as needed, like during the instrumental “Bring Him Home” reprise in Act Two. The stunning harmonies of “Turning” echo the voices of not only those lost but of the ones left behind.
VOCALS: The music of Les Misérables demands incredible vocal prowess. You must be able to do justice to the beautiful yet powerful melodies while infusing emotion into the meaningful story. Each cast member, principal and ensemble, achieves that and much more. Just try not to cry during “Bring Him Home” or sympathize with his plight during “Who Am I”. Bring a sweater, because you’ll get chills when Caissie Levy belts out “I Dreamed a Dream”. When Will Swenson sings “Stars”, you understand what motivates Javert while also fully aware of his tormented soul.
GIFTED ARTISTS: If you are well-versed (pun intended) in musical theatre talent, then you’re already familiar with some of the gifted performers. The following actors excel in their craft, creating performances that are both memorable and heartfelt: On the day I saw this show, the Jean Valjean understudy, Aaron Walpole went on in the starring role and was tremendous. Given Aaron’s phenomenal job, I’m look forward to seeing Les Miz again to experience Ramin Karimloo’s award-winning interpretation of Valjean. Will Swenson’s Javert embodies anger, righteous determination, and a conflicted soul, all of which this well-respected artist handles with ease and talent. Caissie Levy breaks your heart as she balances Fantine’s unwavering love for her daughter and determination to keep fighting. Nikki M. James’ exquisite range is on display in her role as Éponine. She grabs hold of Éponine’s fiery personality, infusing fragility, tenderness, and selfless love to this iconic role. As Marius, Andy Mientus takes us on a journey of self-discovery. Marius’ youthful energy, adventurous side, and naïveté early on brings home the severity of what’s to follow. When Marius is thrust into situations that require him to re-examine his beliefs and what’s worth fighting for, we believe his plight due to Andy’s adept handling of the role. Remember the names of Keala Settle (Madame Thénardier) and Samantha Hill (Cosette), as these two talented actresses will both surprise and impress. The ensemble cast members enrich the production with subtle nuances and powerful moments, adding depth to each scene. Pay close attention to the student rebel scenes, as these young men are both impressive and heartbreaking.
STORY: Based on Victor Hugo’s novel of the same name, this musical is not only a story about forgiveness and redemption but one about love. Whether that love takes shape in the form of friendship (rebels), family (Fantine/Jean Valjean/Cosette), or romantic entanglement (Éponine/Marius/Cosette), love guides the actions and intentions of the characters. As we sit in the audience, we’re invited to examine our own choices and perspective. Do we choose hate instead of love? Do we reach out to those in need or pass judgment? Are our decisions based on a need for power and control, or are they guided by love for ourselves and others?

As soon as the lights dimmed and the familiar opening chords reverberated through the room, I smiled. This amazing theatrical work affects me not only on a musical level but a spiritual one as well. I venture to guess that many of you would say the same. You may have seen the 2012 film version or saw Les Misérables during an earlier run, but I recommend experiencing this modern stage telling of Victor Hugo’s novel.

*DISCLAIMER: I do not have affiliation with any of the afore-mentioned talent or anyone associated with this production. No endorsement by the artists or musical mentioned is implied! I’m simply singing their praises!*

Musicals to My Ears

Published on May 30, 2014April 21, 2015 by Kelly DeenyLeave a comment

I saw my first musical, Annie, when I was four-years-old. I distinctly remember the elaborate stage, adorned with a massive Christmas tree and a winding staircase. I don’t remember the music, just the image and the sensation that I wanted to see more. Thirty years later and I’m still in awe of how profound an experience live theatre is in my life.

Artists known for their musical theatre careers are some of the ones I hold in very high regard. Their musical talent shadows so many other in mainstream music. Their voices reach the back of the house, leaving me moved to tears and utterly impressed. Despite the overwhelming power of their vocal gifts, it is the sheer spiritual experience of being in a theatre during a show that moves me. My soul transports to a dimension filled with artistry, passion, and unwavering purpose when the music swells and the vocal talent pierces the room with their abilities.

Given my passionate affinity for Broadway musicals, I made it a priority to buy a ticket to this year’s Tony Award broadcast on Sunday, June 8th. I had it all planned – watch the nomination announcements online, blog about my thoughts afterward, buy a ticket to the award ceremony, and go to NYC numerous times in May to see the nominated shows.

I got excited as I pictured how amazing it would be to sit in Radio City Music Hall and watch some of the most brilliant talents perform. “Could you imagine,” I’d say to friends, “how awesome it would be to be in that audience when Ramin Karimloo sings with the Les Miserables cast or see Idina Menzel win another Tony?” I expect the chances that both will occur to be high, but I won’t be there to see it; the tickets sold out before I even knew they were on sale. (**Yes, there may have actually been some tears.**)

I’ll still go see the shows on my “must-see” list and will likely go to Times Square and watch the award show live on the massive TV screen – surrounded by my fellow theatre aficionados. It wasn’t Plan A, but perhaps an even more exciting option is around the corner. Now I’ve got the soundtrack to Thoroughly Modern Millie playing in my mind. (Kudos if you understood that musical theatre connection.) Apropos given Sutton Foster’s nomination for VIOLET this year.

Musical theatre may not be your “thing”, but it’s certainly mine. And that’s one role I’m proud to play!

If you have not heard of the musical theatre artists I referenced above, stop reading and go download the cast albums. You’re missing out on incredible talent!!

*DISCLAIMER: No endorsement from any of the above-mentioned artists or corporate entities intended or implied. I seek to share my appreciation of the industry with fellow theatre fans or those who don’t yet know they are one.*

Celebrating My Birthday and Entertainment

Published on April 13, 2014 by Kelly Deeny1 Comment

I’ll admit it; I was bummed that no one threw me a surprise party for my 30^th birthday. Sound egocentric and ungrateful? Yeah, I thought so too. I decided to throw myself a birthday party the following year and themed it around my main interests: fairytales, music, musical theatre, and film/TV. I decorated the sunroom with princess tablecloths, plateware, and cups. I put music notes all around the house, hanging them from the ceiling and making them the centerpiece at the dining room table. My friend gave me a film clapboard, and I put up an entertainment-themed banner in the entryway of the TV room. We played “Kelly Trivia”, listened to musical theatre soundtracks, and enjoyed one another’s company. It remains a highlight in my life, and I look forward to throwing another one soon.

Birthdays are meant to celebrate YOU! You, with all your quirks, varying interests, and struggles. So many times I hear people say, “It’s just another day.” They don’t like celebrating their birthday. Want to avoid it at all costs. If the day passes without a “Happy Birthday” uttered, then it’s a good day. Even in the midst of low self-esteem and spiritual crisis, I always recognized the joy that was my day of birth. I felt special in a world that frequently promoted normalcy. You are important and deserve to be celebrated. So, next time your birthday comes around, consider throwing your own party. After all, it is a day about you and what/whom you love.

There are some birthdays that went by as any other – work/school, dinner at home, and watch TV at night. However, here’s just a few that stood out:

My Sweet Sixteen party was one of the most memorable birthday celebrations I can recall. I had a small-ish number of close friends over. We proceeded to watch The Mighty Ducks and my mom surprised me with a birthday cake adorned to look like a TV set. Written in icing was All My Children in the center of the cake. Boy, does she know me well! It was a perfect day because I was surrounded by people I cared about and we celebrated not only the anniversary of my birth day but mutual interests, good food, and laughter.

Last year, I celebrated my birthday in New York City (a place I consider to be a second home) with family and friends. We stood in line at the discount ticket booth in Times Square and got our tickets for Rodgers + Hammerstein’s Cinderella. We walked around the area, picked up a princess crown for me to wear, and had lunch at one of my favorite NYC restaurants: Ellen’s Stardust Diner. It was a beautiful day, and I was so grateful to share an interest of mine with people I love.

This year, I originally thought to do something different than last year. Until I heard the amazing casting news from THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA; Norm Lewis and Sierra Boggess will be on-stage together again as “The Phantom” and “Christine”. They played father and daughter in The Little Mermaid a few years ago. (Read the full news article here.) You only need to watch the Les Misérables in Concert: 25^th Anniversary to see and hear Norm’s brilliant talent. He gives me chills and makes me cry every time I watch it. He’s a perfect fit as “The Phantom”! Besides, I saw my first Broadway show around my birthday in 1994, and it was a show that Norm appeared in – The Who’s Tommy. That show remains one of my favorites even twenty years later. The beauty in Sierra’s voice is matched with a beautiful spirit within. She’s a gifted artist who continuously promotes acceptance, self-love, and belief in one’s abilities. If you’re not already “following” Sierra on social media, you’re missing out on uplifting and insightful posts. Both Norm and Sierra excel in their craft due to a combination of exquisite vocal talent and magnificent acting skills. Going to see these two phenomenal individuals on-stage together is a birthday treat to myself this year. And most definitely worth the expense!

I look forward to my birthday every year, because to be completely honest I’m very happy to be alive and sharing my life with an amazing family and tremendous group of friends. Those who know me well wouldn’t find it surprising that I decided to go to California during big award show weekends or that I planned themed parties in honor of my favorite Broadway musicals. They’d get a chuckle at the fact that the selection of music on my phone consists of animated films and vocalists known for their musical theatre talent. I’m proud to celebrate the artist within and cling tight to the empathetic spirit that guides me. I love who I am today, but am just as excited as who I’ll be five years from now. That’ll be a celebration!

Please click on the links listed within the post to learn more about the artists, shows, or business entities mentioned.

*DISCLAIMER: No endorsement by any of the above-mentioned companies/artists is intended or implied.*

WICKED Cool: Why This Musical “Defied” the Critics

Published on November 30, 2013April 21, 2015 by Kelly DeenyLeave a comment

“The Wizard of Oz” was never one of my favorite films growing up. I enjoyed it, don’t get me wrong, but I just couldn’t connect with it on an emotional level. Many years later, the Broadway musical WICKED ended up becoming my all-time favorite show – topping even LES MISERABLES. Trust me, that is quite a feat.

I consider myself a musical know-it-all, but in actuality I’m more of a know-it-most. I’m well versed (hee hee) in shows of the past 15 years or so. Beyond that, my range is minimal. I listened mainly to the “classics”: Les Mis, Phantom of the Opera, Cats and Miss Saigon. I only saw Les Mis on stage twice, but I had the entire album memorized. To this day it is not uncommon for me to break out in song. Just say Papa and I’ll start with “Papa, Papa, I do not understand…” and sing the rest of the Epilogue. Not only does the story take you on a rollercoaster ride of emotions but the music matches in intensity. I never expected another show to affect me as much as LES MISERABLES has, yet WICKED achieved that and more!

In 2003, I heard about a new Broadway musical that starred Idina Menzel (RENT) and Kristin Chenoweth (You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown). It is a story about the witches of Oz, told from a very different perspective than popular culture is familiar with. I knew instantly that I wanted to see this show…HAD to see this show. I started reading the novel it is based on, more on that later, and was 3/4 through by the time I saw the show in the spring of 2004. I sat next to my mother in the orchestra level of the theater, the smile plastered on my face even before the lights in the house dimmed. From the first swell of the music and mesmerizing visuals, I knew this would be an adventure of a lifetime.

Every single moment of WICKED affected me on not only an artistic level but a spiritual and emotional one as well. This is not only a story about friendship and standing up for what you believe, though both play a significant role in the overall success of the piece. More importantly, in my opinion, WICKED soars due to its ability to knock down walls and expectations, especially those we define ourselves by. It’s up to us to define ourselves and the choices we make; to soar to new heights, overcome unreasonable and sometimes cruel restrictions, and defy that which holds us down.

If you have yet to see this brilliant musical, put it on your must-see list! Regardless of whether people singing on stage is not your “thing”, keep an open mind. You might just gain appreciation for not only the power of musical theater but of your own capability too.

*To learn more about the incredible novel of which the musical is based, click here to read more about Gregory Maguire or buy any, or all, of the WICKED series.*