Tag: musical

Film Feedback: Come Alive with The Greatest Showman

Published on by Kelly Deeny7 Comments

I love The Greatest Showman. No, adore is more fitting! I adore everything about this fantastic, heartwarming, toe-tapping, inspiring musical. If you have yet to see the film, bookmark this post and go buy the digital, DVD, or streaming copy – it’s worth your time and your money.

As I sat in front of the computer to write my film review of this award-worthy film, I struggled. I was not at a loss for words – just the opposite; the words flooded my mind and heart. The classic review-style post I’d drafted, while detailed in appreciation, was impersonal. The blog writer put the review aside to make way for the artistic spirit within.

In recent months I rediscovered that the beauty within is far superior to the exterior. Embracing all that you are, broken mirrors and perceived imperfections abound, is not only possible but essential and attainable.  For as the award-winning anthem states, “I am brave/I am bruised/I am who I’m meant to be/This is me.”

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I am a straight, white female – one who’s never experienced hatred or violence due to the color of my skin, weight, gender identity, or sexual orientation. I do not know what’s it’s like to be in Ann’s trapeze-artist shoes or Lettie’s position and yet I know self-doubt, low self-esteem, and how it feels to not love the reflection staring back.

Open heart surgery as a toddler meant living with a scar that seemed massive for my smaller-than-typical frame. It morphed as I grew, the physical reminder of my “broken” heart fading as the emotional one spread. I never believed myself to be beautiful. I’m pretty, but not gorgeous. I don’t turn any heads when I walk in a room. If someone showed a romantic interest, then I’d run for the proverbial hills leaving a trail of regret behind.

I am an artistic spirit, pulled toward art’s ability to heal the soul and inspire the spirit. I gravitate to the entertainment arts – singing, writing, acting, celebrating film/TV/theatre in blog form. While others my age played sports, gossiped about boys, or frequented clubs/bars, I remained true to what interested me. I am an entertainment girl at heart and in spirit, one who’d rather spend a movie night with good friends then get wasted at a party.

I felt separate, different, odd when I compared myself with those around me. I didn’t feel as though I fit in a world obsessed with frivolity and superficial conversations. It wasn’t until I performed “On My Own” in my college Actors’ Showcase that I came alive. As the house lights remained dim and silence pulsated around me I thought. This is what matters. This is where my heart is. This is me. My artistic spirit soared in that moment of belonging, and recalling it still brings me joy.

 

I experienced the gloriousness that is The Greatest Showman in the company of my 8-year-old niece and 6-year-old nephew. I smiled and my heart swelled with joy at seeing their reaction to the story on-screen. They were completely engaged, their eyes wide and their feet moving. When Zendaya came on screen, my niece cheered. When the townsfolk spouted hatred and violence, my nephew turned to me and asked, “Why are they being so mean?” I hope that The Greatest Showman inspires them in the way the musicals of my generation did for me.

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As we navigate the world of adult responsibilities, expectations, and societal roles, may we remember though we are bound to change the core of who we are never will. What makes us different does not separate us; it calls us to champion one another and the beauty within us all.

You…are…glorious!

 

*Disclaimer: No endorsement by any of the films, studios, talent, or associates is intended or implied.*

Have you heard about 2016 BroadwayCon?

Published on 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!
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.*

Entertainment Blogging Questions

Published on by Kelly DeenyLeave a comment

*I reached out to one TV network and received what amounted to a non-answer.  Hmm, I have a feeling this is going to take a lot of research and someone who understands legal-speak.*

Visit kellydeeny.com to read the Artistic Spirit Pledge entries.
Visit kellydeeny.com to read the Artistic Spirit Pledge entries.

As you can tell from the large gap between blog entries, I haven’t written any new “insights” about my favorite films, television shows, or theatre performances in a while.  Part of the reason is due to the 111 Day Artistic Spirit Pledge that I focused on from October until the end of January (the full list can be found on my author website). For 111 days, I wrote about the link between art (in its various forms) and spirituality.  Given my love for film, television, and theatre, many of the pledge entries were entertainment-focused.  Here are just some of the ones relevant to entertainment:

The other reason I haven’t written anything new is an admitted lack of knowledge and information about blogging rules and guidelines.  The idea that I could be infringing on copyright laws or improperly citing a TV show or film title (unintentionally, mind you) worries me enough to delay posting.  I went out into the great, wide world of the internet to search for “blogging about TV” or “entertainment blogging guidelines”, but found a lack of helpful information.  So, what do I want to know?

  • PHOTOS:  Including images in blog posts adds an extra layer of professionalism and helps catch a reader’s attention.  Yet, when writing about a film, tv show, or musical/play, can I include a photo?  If so, where do I find them and do I need to request permission in order to embed the image?
  • VIDEOS: Similar to photos, can I include clips of shows or movie trailers in my blog posts? If so, do I need permission or are they notified when I copy/paste an EMBED link?
  • TITLES/NAMES:  Whenever I mention a TV show, film, or musical/play, I always include a hyperlink (whenever available) to the original/official website.  I want to make sure that readers interested in learning more about the titles I write about can easily find the original source.  Are there guidelines/rules in place for including links to official sites of using the names or shows/performers?
  • TAGS:  Are there any restrictions to including a television network or actor’s name as a meta tag in a blog post entry?

I hesitated writing about this topic for fear that I would appear unprofessional or come off as an amateur.  Then, I realized there are probably many more entertainment fans (like myself) who are as interested in blogging about their favorite shows as I am.  I sincerely doubt I am the only one wondering about how we can best promote and support the industry without violating any copyright or infringement rules.

I’ve obtained some helpful feedback from fellow writers, but I am interested in expanding my knowledge of this specialty in the ever-advancing blogosphere.

 

Musical Theatre Review: Les Misérables

Published on 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!*

Celebrating My Birthday and Entertainment

Published on by Kelly Deeny1 Comment

I’ll admit it; I was bummed that no one threw me a surprise party for my 30th 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.

Sweet Sixteen cake

 

  • 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: 25th 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.*

 

Nothing Quite As Good As Live Theatre

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The 2013 Tony Awards telecast was a smashing success, if for no other reason than making me excited to see another Broadway show! This awards show consistently showcases the art form that it was created to honor.

From the opening number, all the way through to the closing, I was enthralled, entertained and inspired.  Neil Patrick Harris, once again, was the epitome of class, humor and respect.  His love and appreciation for the theatre community is evident and helps make him the ideal Tony Awards host.  He’s funny without being cruel, entertaining without being too serious and above all – he’s a Broadway fan like the rest of us!

The performances this year did not disappoint.  I’ve only had the pleasure of seeing one show (Rodger’s + Hammerstein’s Cinderella), so I was excited to see the other shows perform.  Now, I’m looking forward to seeing them all and kicking myself for not seeing ones that have already left Broadway (Bring It On: The Musical and The Mystery of Edwin Drood).

As a musical fan, I found the playsicals bit hysterical!  Mashing up the titles of plays and musicals – some truly funny combinations that I’m surprised we haven’t heard before. I actually laughed the loudest during that section.  So classically funny without resorting to cruelty.  Simply brilliant!!

My favorite number of the evening was the “Television Sucks” medley.  It’s the perfect example of why the Tonys are the best award show of the year.  They blend humility, humor and appreciation for their industry while also not taking themselves too seriously.  In this case, poking fun at leaving theatre for TV while also showing support for the Broadway artists whose shows were cancelled.  Anyone else want to see a sitcom starring Andrew Rannells, Megan Hilty and Laura Benanti?  I do!!

Having only seen one of the shows, I can’t comment on whether the “right” winners took home the award.  That’s what makes the Broadway community so wonderful – so much talent and only so many awards to hand out! There were some nominees whose work I’m familiar with from other shows that I was rooting for, but I don’t doubt their turn will come.  I’m going to mention a few of them, only because I have great respect for their talents:  Annaleigh Ashford, Laura Osnes, Santino Fontana, Will Chase, Stephanie J. Block.

Overall, the Tony Award telecast brought us laughter, entertainment and a taste of the excellence of the Broadway community.  I can’t wait to return to NYC and find out what new shows are preparing for the next season!

For an entire list of the winners, visit the Tony Awards official website!

Cinderella: A Dream Come True

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I have a Cinderella complex.  There, I’ve said it.  Phew!  In all seriousness, my connection to this particular fairy-tale spans decades and has yet to diminish.

By the time I was seven years old my family had made numerous trips to Walt Disney World.  It remains a place that brings me great joy, inspires creativity and fosters imagination.  From a very young age, Cinderella quickly became my favorite Disney movie.  Was it the representation of a character so kind, thoughtful and caring that moved me?  Perhaps it had to do with the beautiful melodies that instilled a deep love of music that has yet to loosen its grip on my soul.  Or, maybe I identified with this film and its title character because she looked like me.  Regardless of the whys, the fact remained that “Cinderella” was my favorite Disney character, and the seven-year old me was about to meet her idol.

Sitting on the Main Street curb in Disney’s Magic Kingdom, I waited with anticipation for the evening’s parade to commence.  The music started, the lights illuminated the night sky, and the crowd erupted in cheers.  I waved with excitement alongside my fellow parade-watchers.  Then finally she arrived!  Strolling down Main Street in her silver carriage, “Cinderella” greeted the onlookers with a wave and a smile.  Then she pointed at me and mouthed “You look like me.”  Me?  Did she really just speak to me?  With my long blond hair and tiny stature.  A girl who would shy away from attention was just recognized by her favorite Disney princess?

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That moment means so much to me, nearly three decades later.  I think about the graciousness of the young lady riding in that carriage.  I wonder if she realized just how much a single moment of kindness and attention mattered.  As an adult I still look for those moments but seldom find them through external means.  When I go to concerts, stand outside Broadway stage doors for a picture and autograph or attend award show red carpets, I do so with an appreciation, respect and connection to those who choose the remarkable power of artistic expression and am inspired to create my own.

For my 36th birthday in a few weeks, I’ll be visiting NYC in the company of dear friends and family with hopes to attend a Broadway show.  There’s still that 7-year-old girl inside who lights up with the mere mention of Disney World and combined with my long-time love of musical theatre here’s hoping that Rodgers + Hammerstein’s Cinderella will be one of the shows we’ll be able to see!

To all those young girls out there who sit on that Main Street curb waiting for their favorite Disney princess, keep dreaming, wishing and believing.

*DISCLAIMER:  A reminder that the opinions stated above are mine alone and do not reflect any other person, company or entity’s position.  I simply share my appreciation and respect for those stories and characters that helped shaped my childhood.*

I “Once” and Still Am Irish

Published on by Kelly DeenyLeave a comment

*UPDATED 1/8/2015: Once has since closed on Broadway, but the show is currently touring. Visit their website to see the tour schedule and get tickets!*

My dad’s side of the family is Irish and my mom’s got Czech lineage.  That’s not the only reason I went to see “Once” on Broadway.  It was an odd, yet fitting, blend of two interests – genealogy and music!

On the train ride home from NYC yesterday I decided I’d write a blog post about the amazing matinée performance of “Once”.   I’d give a thorough review with praise and compliments for everyone involved.  While that’s still the plan, the method of transporting that message has changed.  A separate blog post will follow with a more typical type of review.   Instead of describing the who, what, when and where of “Once” this post seeks to pay tribute to what I believe the show’s message to be – love.  For country, music and one another.

I woke this morning thinking about how proud I am to be Irish.  How much I love this culture and all the richness it’s brought to my life.  Granted, my third great-grandparents emigrated from Ireland to America in the mid 1860s but I still consider myself Irish.

There’s something so engrained in my spirit that connects me to that part of my ancestry.  Perhaps it’s the mystical element.  The Celtic traditions so steeped in grace, beauty and magic.  But what I truly believe to be the strongest link is…ART.  Music speaks to me in a way nothing else ever has.  The melodies, the harmonies, the fulfillment of sweeping scales and gorgeous vocals.  Irish music tells stories and as a storyteller myself I gravitate to that which does the same.

Nearly ten years ago I traveled with a tour group to the southern points of Ireland.  From places such as Killarney, Kilkenny, Cork and Dublin.  I climbed Blarney Castle and kissed the Blarney Stone.

View from Blarney Castle
View from Blarney Castle

I walked from my Dublin hotel, through the park and onto Grafton Street.  I rode on a horse pulled carriage along the streets of Killarney into its National Park.  My brief visit at the Muckross House ultimately being the catalyst for my YA fantasy novel.

Rear view of the Muckross House
Rear view of the Muckross House

In each town that we visited a few of us ventured out to the pubs each evening.  I had some Guinness, enjoyed the company of new friends and listened with intrigue to each band that entertained us.  The ambiance differed from the bar scene back home.  At the Irish pub it was about chatting with one another, dancing and letting the music lead the evening.

And that brings me back to why “Once” moved me so.  It took me back to that wonderful August week in 2004.  To the incredible musicians who shared their love of music with the rest of us.  Artists who used their passions and talents to unite us all in a shared experience.  We came from different places, had different backgrounds and different needs but for a few hours we simply existed in the same time, same place and same moment.

Multi-talented artists grace the stage at the Jacobs Theatre 8 times a week.  Each one of them not only singing but playing a musical instrument as well.  Including an instrument that looked like a cross between a mini piano and clarinet.  Anyway, from the moment you enter the theatre music invites you in; welcomes you into the environment and a shared musical experience.  Even so much as allowing audience members on-stage to get a beer and watch the musicians perform.  I stood at my seat and watched with an artist’s pride at what was unfolding before my eyes.  Music linking us all together.  Respect for the art form and all that’s it’s capable of achieving.

Throughout the next two hours I beamed with pride; knowing that this was a moment I’d remember for a lifetime.  This brilliant theatrical piece may differ from the traditional Broadway musical but it achieves the same goal in a different fashion – sharing passion for art with those who need to hear it.

Now, back to researching the Czech side of my family!

Please check out the following sites..

Once the Musical

Muckross House