Theater review: ‘Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat’

‘Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat’ opened last weekend at the Woodlawn Theatre and runs until December 23. It is based on the “coat of many colors” biblical story of Joseph and is completely sung through with limited spoken dialogue. Joseph was his father’s favorite and that made his 11 brothers jealous and they vowed to get rid of him. Instead of killing him they sell him as a slave to traveling merchants who take him to Egypt. Eventually he rises to power and ends up helping and forgiving his brothers despite what they did to him.

The story begins with the introduction of the brothers and their obvious dislike for Joseph for being their father’s favorite, especially after his father gives him a coat of many colors during “Joseph’s Coat.” This disdain grows as Joseph tells them of his dreams which suggest that in the future they will bow down to him. Travis Eades does an outstanding job of bringing the character of Joseph to life and his vocals are strong, especially during his poignant solo on “Close Every Door.” The brothers work well together as a group and play off each other’s strengths during group performances like “One More Angel in Heaven,” “Those Canaan Days” and “Benjamin Calypso.” The scene stealer of Act II is Trey Hoadley, who plays Pharaoh and gives an “Elvis-like” performance on “Song of the King.” He even goes down to the audience and gives one of his scarves away while the audience cheers him on. “Joseph Megamix” wraps up the night as the cast, now dressed in colorful tie-dye outfits, performs a medley of the night’s songs as they dance with the audience and file past them to the lobby.

Overall “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor” is filled with humor, catchy musical numbers and universal themes of family and forgiveness. The cast is big and sometimes the stage looks crowded but the family friendly story line makes it a must see for the season. Show times are Friday and Saturday at 7:30p.m. and Sunday at 3p.m. Additional show dates are on Wednesday December 21 and Thursday December 22 at 7:30p.m. Tickets are available online or by calling the box office at (210) 267-8388.

Theater review: ‘Jersey Boys’ at the Majestic Theatre

jerseyboyspic16 — ‘Jersey Boys’ is playing at the Majestic Theatre until Sunday December 11. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

There is plenty to do in town this chilly weekend but for anyone looking for something to do indoors there are still four more chances to catch ‘Jersey Boys’ at the Majestic Theatre. ‘Jersey Boys’ is the story of Frankie Valli, Bob Gaudio, Tommy De Vito and Nick Massi, known collectively as Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons. It is the true story of a group of blue collar boys from the wrong side of the tracks who became one of the biggest American pop music groups of all time.

After a successful opening night on Tuesday, ‘Jersey Boys’ is still going strong playing to an older crowd who undoubtedly remembers Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons during the highlight of their careers. The show starts with a French rendition of December, 1963 (Oh, What a Night) and gives way to Tommy DeVito, played by Matthew Dailey, who shows up, introduces himself and begins to narrate the story of the band. Throughout the show they each take turns narrating from his point of view. This is an excellent way of bringing the audience into the story and thereby making it more personal. Show highlights include their first hit “Sherry” and “My Eyes Adored You” which Frankie Valli, played by Miguel Jarquin-Moreland, sings to his wife. While Act One is the story of the band’s inception, Act Two is a highlight reel of their best hits. Judging by the audience’s reaction during “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You” this was the audience favorite performance of the night. It is a must see for die hard fans.

‘Jersey Boys’ is now playing at the Majestic Theatre. Upcoming show times are 2p.m. and 8p.m. Saturday and 2p.m. and 7:30p.m. on Sunday. Ticket prices begin at $30 and orders for groups of ten or more can be made by calling (210) 226-5967. Single ticket orders must be done in person at the box office. Disclaimer: contains adult language.

Christmas shows at Jazz, TX

jazztxflyer — Jazz, TX at the Pearl is hosting Christmas big band shows this month with Doc Watkins and his orchestra. Photo courtesy of Jazz, TX, used with permission.

Jazz, TX, the Pearl’s newest upscale music venue, is hosting Christmas big band shows this month featuring owner and musician Doc Watkins and his orchestra. The band will play holiday classics like Winter Wonderland, Jingle Bells and A Charlie Brown Christmas in big band style. Guests will be able to enjoy an evening of Christmas music as well as dinner and cocktails from the new winter menu. This menu features winter and holiday flavors including the Garlic Goat Cheese Dip and Fried Pickled Mushrooms and cocktails like Siesta ‘Till Work and Fall Back Cocktail. Upcoming shows are on Friday December 9, Saturday December 10, Friday December 16, Saturday December 17 and Friday December 23 from 8:30p.m.to 11:30p.m. Tickets are $20 per person and may be purchased online. (Jazz, TX, 2016)

Jazz, TX is owned and operated by renowned musician Brent “Doc” Watkins. It is located in the cellar of the Bottling House and hosts musical acts include jazz, blues, big band, Texas swing, salsa, conjunto and Americana including Doc Watkins. It is open from Tuesday through Saturday and aside from music guest can enjoy a wide variety of food, beverages, wine and spirits.

Jazz, TX
312 Pearl Pkwy, Bldg 6 Suite 6001
San Antonio, TX 78215
(210) 332-9386

‘The Santaland Diaries’ at The Classic Theatre of San Antonio

santalanddiariespic — John Stillwagon in ‘The Santaland Diaries’ opening this week at The Classic Theatre of San Antonio. Photo by Kaitin Muse, used with permission.

Opening at The Classic Theatre of San Antonio this week is ‘The Santaland Diaries.’ This one man show is based on the true chronicles of NPR comic genius David Sedaris’ experience as Crumpet the Elf in Macy’s Santaland display. In this cult classic he talks about some of his odd experiences during the height of the holiday crunch. John Stillwagon stars as Sedaris’ not so merry alter ego Crumpet the Elf with Kelly and Bart Roush directing. It opens on Friday December 9 with subsequent shows on December 10, 11, 16, 17 and 18. Performances are Friday and Saturday at 8p.m. and Sunday at 3p.m. and 7p.m. (The Classic Theatre of San Antonio, 2016)

Tickets are $20 for general admission and may be purchased online or by calling the box office at (210) 589-8450. Group rates are available. There will be a complimentary eggnog reception on opening night Friday December 9. Please note that ‘The Santaland Diaries’ is recommended for ages 14 and over as it contains mature content and language and the secret of Santa is exposed.

The Classic Theatre of San Antonio
1924 Fredericksburg Rd
San Antonio, TX 78201
(210) 589-8450

Tickets to ‘Beautiful – The Carole King Musical’ now on sale

Coming up in March ‘Beautiful – The Carole King Musical’ will make its San Antonio premiere as part of the North Park Lexus Broadway in San Antonio series. It will be playing at the Majestic Theatre for eight performances only from Tuesday March 14 through Sunday March 19, 2017. Tickets are now on sale and can be purchased at the Majestic Theatre box office, online, through Ticketmaster or by calling 1-800-745-3000. Prices begin at $45 and orders for groups of ten or more can be made by calling (210) 226-5967. Single ticket orders must be done in person at the box office. Box office hours are 10a.m. to 5p.m. Monday through Friday and Saturday hours vary. Performances are at 7:30p.m. Tuesday through Thursday, 8p.m. on Friday, 2p.m. and 8p.m. on Saturday and 2p.m. and 7:30p.m. on Sunday. (North Park Lexus Broadway in San Antonio, 2016)

‘Beautiful – The Carole King Musical’ is the Tony and Grammy Award winning Broadway hit about the early life and career of the legendary singer and songwriter. Before she made it big, she was Carol Klein, a Brooklyn native with passion and chutzpah. She started in the record business as a teenager and eventually had a successful career as writing hits for the biggest acts in rock and roll. It took a personal crisis for her to finally find her own voice. This musical is the true story of her rise to fame that includes being part of a songwriting team with her husband Gerry Goffin, her relationship with other writers and best friends Cynthia Weil and Barry Mann and how she became one of the most successful solo acts in music history. It includes the popular songs “One Fine Day,” “(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman” and the title song.

Majestic Theatre
224 E Houston St
San Antonio, Tx 78205
(210) 226-5700

‘All is Calm’ opens this Friday at The Playhouse San Antonio

alliscalmpic — ‘All is Calm: The Christmas Truce of 1914’ opens this Friday December 2 at The Playhouse San Antonio. Photo by Daniel D Baumer, used with permission.

Opening this Friday December 2 at The Playhouse San Antonio is ‘All is Calm: The Christmas Truce of 1914.’ It will run until Sunday December 18 in the Russell Hill Rogers Theatre. George Green and Bill Gundry co-direct with musical direction by Nicholas Ponting. Show times are Thursday, Friday and Saturday at 8p.m. and Sundays at 3p.m. Tickets may be purchased online or by calling the box office at (210) 733-7258. Prices are $30 for general adult, $23 for military with valid ID, $23 for seniors aged 60 and up, $15 for students with valid ID and $12 for children aged 12 and under. Group rates are available for groups of ten or more. (The Playhouse San Antonio, 2016)

‘All is Calm: The Christmas Truce of 1914’ by Peter Rothstein has musical arrangements by Erick Lichte and Timothy C Takach. It is set in 1914, at the Western Front, where out of the violence comes a silence, then a song. When a German soldier steps into No Man’s Land singing “Stille Nacht” it brings about a night of camaraderie, music and peace. A remarkable true experience, it is told in the words and songs of the men who lived it. This acapella musical highlights the beauty and power of the human spirit during the darkest of days. On December 17 there will be a special double feature of ‘All is Calm’ and ‘A Marcsmen Christmas.’ The performances start at 7p.m. and purchasing a ticket to this night allows for entrance to both performances.

The Playhouse San Antonio
800 West Ashby Place
San Antonio, TX 78212
(210) 733-7258

Free Jazz concert at La Cantera Resort & Spa on Thursday

paultaylor — Acclaimed smooth jazz saxophonist will be performing at the annual tree lighting ceremony at La Cantera Resort & Spa this Thursday. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

The holidays are in full swing and La Cantera Resort & Spa, part of Destination Hotels luxury collection, is getting into the holiday spirit. This Thursday December 1 the luxury resort is hosting a free Jazz concert featuring acclaimed smooth jazz saxophonist Paul Taylor who will perform before the annual tree lighting celebration. Guests will be able to enjoy holiday treats and photos with Santa with a portion of the proceeds to benefit the Boys & Girls Club of San Antonio. (La Cantera Resort & Spa, 2016)

Guests are encouraged to bring a toy for the Boys & Girls Club and in return will receive a bag of La Cantera freshly baked holiday cookies. The evening’s event will take place from 6p.m. to 9p.m. with Santa lighting the tree at 7:15p.m.

La Cantera Resort & Spa
Plaza San Saba, just off the main lobby
16641 La Cantera Parkway
San Antonio, TX 78256
(210) 558-6500

Standing Rock Supply Drive

standingrockflyer — Standing Rock Supply Drive taking place now. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

Local business owners Daniel Northcutt of Frank, Blayne Tucker of The Mix and local artist Cruz Ortiz of Snake Hawk Press are joining forces with local Assiniboine/Sioux activist Jennifer K Falcon for a supply drive for the Dakota Access oil pipeline protesters. The Mix and Frank will be accepting cold weather donations through Saturday after which they will be delivered to the Standing Rock camps with a banner designed by Cruz Ortiz Art that reads “San Antonio Stands with Standing Rock.” Cruz Ortiz Art will also be selling original merchandise and all funds collected will be donated to the camp. To date, $3,000 has already been raised. (Frank, 2016)

Donations can be made online or dropped off at: The Mix 2423 N St Mary’s St in San Antonio from 3p.m. to 2a.m. today through Wednesday and at both Frank locations: 1150 S Alamo St in San Antonio from 11a.m. to midnight today through Wednesday and 407 Colorado St in Austin from 11a.m to midnight today through Wednesday as well as at Mohawk in Austin from 5p.m. to 8p.m. today through Wednesday. On Tuesday November 29 from 7p.m. to 10p.m. there will be a fundraiser along with the supply drive at the San Antonio Frank location featuring DJ Ernest Gonzales and live Silk Screening by Cruz Ortiz.

A list of needed supplies includes: firewood (preferably oak, maple and ash), wool blankets, emergency blankets, wool socks, wool thermal underwear (no cotton), safety goggles, trauma kits, straw bales, wall tents with wood stoves and poles, sleeping bags for subzero temperatures (including military style), battery packs for charging phones, carts and wheelbarrows for hauling wood, fire extinguishers, propane, fur blankets, Tesoro gas cards, gas generators, unflavored milk of magnesia, gift cards, propane heaters, snow mobiles, snow tires and more.

Television adaptation: Letty Dobesh Chronicles by Blake Crouch

Blake Crouch is the best-selling author of suspense novels most notably the international bestselling series Wayward Pines. It was adapted into a television series for FOX with M. Night Shyamalan as executive producer. He has also written several novellas including the Letty Dobesh ones which include ‘The Pain of Others,’ ‘Sunset Key’ and ‘Grab.’ These have now been developed for TNT for the series ‘Good Behavior’ starring Michelle Dockery and it premiered earlier this month.

According to Amazon, Letty Dobesh is a thief who has just been released from jail early for good behavior but she is back to her old tricks again. While burglarizing a luxury suite she overhears a man hiring a hit man to kill his wife. She may not be perfect but she still wants to do the right thing. Since she cannot go to the police she tries to derail the hit herself but instead ends up putting herself in danger. The first episode sets up the series by having Letty spend the night with Javier the hit man so she can get more information about the victim. She wakes up the next morning and hurriedly tries to beat him to the victim’s house and successfully convinces her that she is in danger. Unfortunately things do not work out as well as Letty expected and she ends up back in her room where she gets high. Javier storms in and demands answers and ends up blackmailing her into working for him. Hopefully the rest of the season is just as suspenseful and the characters continue to grow.

Small Business Saturday at Frank

frankmakersmarket — Frank Maker’s Market will be this Saturday November 26 in celebration of Small Business Saturday. Photo courtesy of Frank, used with permission.

Small Business Saturday began in 2010 as way to encourage people across the country to support small businesses in their community. According to American Express, last year more than 88 million people turned out to show their support. It takes place every year on the Saturday after Thanksgiving and this year it falls on November 26, 2016. In celebration of Small Business Saturday Frank, in Southtown, is hosting a Maker’s Market from 1p.m. to 8p.m.

Frank is located in the heart of Southtown and is the place to go for homemade sausages, sides and cocktails all served in a refurnished church. Local small business owners, makers and vendors will be getting together at Frank to offer guests a unique option for holiday shopping. Products on sale will include one of a kind ceramic pieces by Guten Co., natural, organic non-toxic bath and body products from Boyd’s, Texas-inspired apparel from Alamo Outdoor Co and many more. Music will be provided by Southtown Vinyl with food and cocktails specials created by Frank.

Frank
1150 S Alamo St
San Antonio, TX 78210
(210) 265-5292

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Author: Sandra Cruz