Theater review: ‘Come From Away’ at the Majestic Theatre

‘Come From Away’ opened to a full house at the Majestic Theatre last night as part of North Park Lexus Broadway in San Antonio. This Broadway musical tells the remarkable true story of 7,000 stranded passengers and the small town in Newfoundland that welcomed them. Cultures clashed and nerves ran high, but uneasiness turned into trust, music soared into the night and gratitude grew into enduring friendships. Performance times are Wednesday February 26 through Sunday March 1, 2020 at 7:30p.m. through Thursday; 8p.m. on Friday; 2pm. and 8p.m., Saturday and 2p.m. and 7:30p.m. on Sunday. Tickets start at $45 and are available online or in person at the Majestic Theatre box office.

‘Come From Away’ takes place in the week following the September 11 attacks in the small town of Gander in the province of Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada. It begins on the morning of September 11, 2001 as the townspeople, including Claude the mayor (Kevin Carolan), Oz the police constable (Harter Clingman), Beulah the teacher (Julie Johnson), Bonnie the SPCA worker (Sharone Sayegh) and others describe life in their small town and how they learned about the terrorist attacks. “Welcome to the Rock” Because of the attacks, US airspace is closed and therefore, 38 international airplanes are diverted and land at the Gander airport. This immediately doubles the population of the small town and they find themselves ill-equipped to deal with the influx of stranded travelers. “38 Planes” Regardless, the town’s citizens immediately band together to house, feed, clothe and comfort the nearly 7,000 passengers and 19 animals in cargo. “Blankets and Bedding” At first the travelers are not permitted to leave the planes but eventually the citizens open up their homes without regard to their guests’ race, nationality or sexual orientation. By the time the passengers and crew prepare to leave, they bond with the citizens who showed them kindness in their time of need without asking for anything in return. They return voluntarily ten years later to celebrate the lifelong friendships and strong connections they formed.

On September 11, 2001 the world stopped. On September 12, their stories moved us all. Out of all the stories that came out of that dreadful day, the story in ‘Come From Away’ is one of those that is rarely talked about but needs to be told. Complete strangers who did not hesitate to help simply because it was the right thing to do. For those who remember September 11, it may stir up painful memories but as a whole, the feel-good and comforting moments balance out the heartbreaking ones and there are also plenty of hilarious scenes. Animal lovers will be delighted to hear that the animals in cargo, who are often neglected in times of crisis, were also cared for by the local SPCA. The extremely talented cast play various roles and do so quite well with minimal costume changes. Show highlights include “Prayer” when people rely on their own different religious beliefs to comfort them and “Heave Away/Screech In” when, in an effort to distract them, the passengers are initiated as honorary Newfoundlanders at the local bar. One inspiring moment is the real story of trailblazing female pilot Beverley Bass, which drew the most applause. “Me and the Sky” With a book, music and lyrics by Tony and Grammy Award nominees Irene Sankoff & David Hein, ‘Come From Away’ is directed by Tony Award winner Christopher Ashley and runs an hour and a half long with no intermission. It is a definite must see for its inspiring message and successful attempts at reminding audiences that what unites us is truly more than what divides us.

Theater review: ‘Anna in the Tropics’ at The Classic Theatre

Now playing at The Classic Theatre of San Antonio is Nilo Cruz’ 2003 Pulitzer Prize-winning play ‘Anna in the Tropics.’ There are still four more chances to see this dramatization of the lives of cigar factory workers in Ybor City, Tampa Florida; it runs until Sunday March 1. Showtimes are Friday and Saturday at 8p.m. and Sunday at 3p.m. Tickets start at $19 and are available online or by calling the box office at (210) 589-8450. On Sunday February 23, there will be a Community Conversation with Dr. Gerald Poyo from St. Mary’s University, whose great-grandfather was a lector, as well as the cast and director of the show. The story in ‘Anna in the Tropics’ revolves around a new lector, perhaps the last of his kind, and the lives that are affected when is hired and he begins to read from Anna Karenina, a novel of adultery set in nineteenth-century Russia.

‘Anna in the Tropics’ is set in 1929 Florida where cigars are still rolled by hand, and lectores are employed to educate and entertain the workers. It begins with Santiago (Philip Marzec) and CheChé (Joshua Segovia) betting at cockfights and when Santiago is on a losing streak, he asks CheChé for a loan. He agrees to the loan, but when they can not find a piece of paper to write a promissory note, Santiago carves it on the bottom of CheChé’s shoe with a knife and promises to give him part of the cigar factory if he does not repay the loan. Meanwhile, Marela (Josey Porras), Conchita (María A. Ibarra) and Ofelia (Marisa Varela) are at the seaport waiting for the cigar factory’s new lector, Juan Julian (Mark Riojas), to arrive. Juan Julian reports to work to begin his first reading and CheChé shows an immediate dislike to him because his wife ran away with the factory’s last lector. As Juan Julian begins reading Anna Karenina, the play delves into desire, power, rivalry, secrets and love. Conchita has an affair with Juan Julian to get back at her husband Palomo’s (Gabriel Itzcoatl Luera) own infidelity and CheChé’s dangerous and violent personality emerges when he kills Juan Julian and insistently pursues the young Marela. The group agrees to continue the tradition of reading and when Santiago suggests something other than Anna Karenina, Conchita states “stories should be finished or they suffer the same fate as those who die before their time.”

The need for culture, tradition and the arts is at the center of Nilo Cruz’ ‘Anna in the Tropics’ and The Classic Theatre should be commended for bringing this outstanding production to San Antonio. With universal themes like family, love, relationships and culture, it speaks to audiences everywhere about the importance of traditions as well as the inevitability of progress and change. The tradition of lectores is an impressive one because even though some of the workers were illiterate, they could quote Shakespeare and Tolstoy and had awareness of the world outside the factory. This is reflected throughout the play in the character’s poetic language, for example, when Ofelia comments on the silence after Juan Julian dies: “It’s as if a metal blanket has fallen on us” and in their thirst for the knowledge that the lector brings them. Standout scenes include when Juan Julian begins reading to the workers and when the group celebrates the launch of a new cigar with the ritual of passing the lit cigar around. Overall, excellent performances by everyone, but Mark Riojas does an outstanding job as Juan Julian and Josey Porras shines as the smart but naïve Marela. ‘Anna in the Tropics’ is a definite must see and despite a love scene, a provocative conversation between Palomo and Conchita meant to heat up their marriage and the normalization of cockfighting, it is worth experiencing on The Classic Theatre stage.

Theater review: ‘The Music Man’ at the Woodlawn Theatre

musicmancast — Sami Serrano as Marian Paroo and Trey Hoadley as Harold Hill in ‘The Music Man,’ now playing at the Woodlawn Theatre. Photo: Woodlawn Theatre, used with permission.

Now playing at the Woodlawn Theatre is ‘The Music Man,’ a musical about con man Harold Hill who poses as a boys’ band organizer and leader and sells band instruments and uniforms to naïve Midwestern townsfolk, promising to train the members of the new band. This family friendly production opened on Friday January 31 with much acclaim and is running through Sunday February 23. Show times are Friday and Saturday at 7:30p.m. and Sunday at 3p.m. Tickets prices range from $18 to $30 and are available online or by calling the box office at (210) 267-8388. The non-profit partner during this production is YOSA (Youth Orchestras of San Antonio) so the theater is currently accepting musical instrument and office supply donations during the run.

‘The Music Man’ is set in the early summer of 1912 and begins aboard a train leaving Rock Island, Illinois. A group of traveling salesmen debate about how modern innovations are making their livelihood more difficult. “Rock Island” When the train gets to River City, Iowa, a passenger leaves with a suitcase labeled “Professor Harold Hill.” Once in town, Harold Hill (Trey Hoadley) sees his old friend and sidekick Marcellus Washburn (Michael Parisi) who is trying to lead a normal life. He tells Harold about a pool table that was just delivered to the local pool hall and to launch his scam, Harold tries to convince the town’s parents of the supposed trouble that a pool table could bring. “Ya Got Trouble” Harold meets Marian Paroo (Sami Serrano) and attempts to flirt with her but she continuously ignores him. Despite his complete lack of musical literacy, he convinces everyone that he is a brilliant bandleader. As Harold struggles to keep his scheme afloat, he finds himself increasingly attached to the townspeople, who have all experienced a positive change since Harold came to town. When the truth comes out, Harold is arrested but Marian, who has fallen for Harold, defends him because of the positive influence he has had on everyone.

The Tony Award winning ‘The Music Man’ has become a beloved classic and the Woodlawn Theatre does an excellent job of bringing it to the local stage. With book, music and lyrics by Meredith Wilson, it is based on a story by Wilson and Franklin Lacey. The cast is one of the biggest seen at the Woodlawn in some time but they all work well together so that the action onstage flows effortlessly. It is interesting to notice that Harold Hill’s dialogue is fast paced and sometimes it is difficult to follow; maybe this is a way of suggesting how salesmen are often thought of as “fast talkers.” Regardless, Trey Hoadley does an admirable job as the con man Harold Hill. Highlights include the catchy “Seventy-Six Trombones” by Harold and the Children of Rivery City and “Marian The Librarian” when Harold and Marian dance in the library with the town’s children – it includes some of the production’s most impressive choreography. The costumes are gorgeous, the story is entertaining and musical numbers include the classic romantic song “Till There Was You.” After a successful opening weekend, ‘The Music Man’ continues to entertain guests of all ages, especially fans of marching bands. It is a definite must-see musical for the entire family.

Theater review: ‘The SpongeBob Musical’ at the Majestic Theatre

Now playing at the Majestic Theatre is the North American Tour of the critically acclaimed, award-winning ‘The SpongeBob Musical’ and there is only one more performance on Sunday January 26 at 2p.m. This production brings the spirit of SpongeBob to life with humanity, heart and pure theatricality and is the 2018 Best Musical winner of the Drama Desk and Outer Critics Circle Awards. When the impending doom of an erupting volcano threatens Bikini Bottom, SpongeBob, Sandy Cheeks and Patrick join forces to save the day. Tickets start at $45 and are available in person at the Majestic Theatre Box Office or online.

‘The SpongeBob Musical’ begins with a pre-show skit that has Patchy the Pirate, SpongeBob’s number one fan, in the audience taking pictures of the stage when two security guards try to stop him. Patchy claims he is being harassed and alleges pirate discrimination as he is led away. The guards then go through the usual theater etiquette that includes no picture or video taking allowed. The story begins as SpongeBob (Lorenzo Pugliese) awakens and welcomes the day with his pet sea snail Gary. He greets his fellow Bikini Bottom friends, including best friend Patrick (Beau Bradshaw), Squidward (Cody Cooley) and Sandy Cheeks (Daria Pilar Redus), as he walks to work at the Krusty Krab restaurant. “Bikini Bottom Day” At work, SpongeBob hints to Mr. Krabs (Zach Kononov) about his desire to become the manager but he just laughs and tells SpongeBob that he is “just a simple sponge.” The entire town is then rocked by a violent tremor and a news report reveals that it was caused by the nearby Mount Humongous, a volcano that is about to erupt. “No Control” The town predictably panics but the town villains Sheldon Plankton (Tristan McIntyre) and Karen the computer (Caitlin Ort) convince them to use an escape pod, which is really just a plot to hypnotize them into liking their restaurant. Always the optimistic, SpongeBob believes the town should try to save Bikini Bottom instead of running and convinces Sandy, who is a scientist, to help him stop the volcano. A last minute effort stops the volcano’s eruption and SpongeBob emerges the hero and the townspeople welcome a brand new day. During the curtain call, the cast performs the SpongeBob Square Pants theme song and the theater bursts out into full on party mode.

SpongeBob SquarePants is a beloved animated series and its successful transition to the stage will entertain both children and adults. With themes like friendship, determination and teamwork, ‘The SpongeBob Musical’ is a delight to experience for die hard fans of the franchise as well as those who appreciate silly, goofy and whimsical entertainment. It is true to the general feel of the animated series but some fans may be disappointed that the costumes are not more obvious to the characters. With that said, Lorenzo Pugliese is adorable as SpongeBob and Tristan McIntyre makes the evil Sheldon Plankton the evil villain everyone loves to hate. A creativity plus is awarded for using constantly moving and revolving ladders to simulate SpongeBob and Sandy’s ascent to Mount Humongous. Show highlights include “BFF” as SpongeBob tries to comfort an upset Patrick and “I’m Not a Loser” when Squidward performs a dance number in his imagination. The setting and costumes are bright and cheerful, with special mention of the gorgeous giant jellyfish, and it is just what ‘The SpongeBob Musical’ aims to be. This family friendly production has heart and plenty of laughs and is a definite must see but it may not be for the smaller kids because it is the length of an average Broadway musical.

Theater review: ‘Spamilton’ at the Empire Theatre

Now playing at the Charline McCombs Empire Theatre is ‘Spamilton: An American Parody.’ The tour launched in December 2018 and has been playing several multi-week engagements, hip-hopping around the country. Created by Gerard Alessandrini, the comic mastermind behind the long-running hit ‘Forbidden Broadway’ and performed by a versatile cast of seven, ‘Spamilton’ is a side-splitting new musical parody. It is playing through Sunday January 26 with upcoming performances: Tuesday through Thursday at 7:30p.m., Friday at 8p.m., Saturday at 2p.m. and 8p.m., and Sunday at 2p.m. and 7:30p.m. Tickets start at $69 and are available online, by calling Ticketmaster at 1-800-982-2787, or by visiting the Majestic Box Office.

‘Spamilton: An American Parody’ is a musical parody of the Broadway show ‘Hamilton.’ It also parodies several other musicals including ‘Chicago,’ ‘The King and I,’ ‘The Book of Mormon’ and ‘Sweeney Todd’ and personalities like Barbara Streisand, Bernadette Peters, Carol Channing and Liza Minelli. Cast includes Jared Alexander, Marissa Hecker, Brandon Kinley, T.J. Newton, Datus Puryear and Matthew Hougland (Musical Director as well as King George III.) It begins as “Barack and Michelle Obama” are getting ready for bed and they set up their copy of the ‘Hamilton’ Broadway Cast Album to play before they fall asleep. From there the story develops into a fictionalized account about ‘Hamilton’ and how Lin-Manuel Miranda’s dream came true. Woven in between are mashups of musicals and parodies of the real songs. Highlights include “Straight is Back” by King George III and “The Film When It Happens.”

At only an hour and 15 minutes, ‘Spamilton’ is packed with everything that made ‘Hamilton’ a Broadway hit: similar cast costumes and songs that sound similar but hilariously re-written to fit the scene. Is it necessary to have seen the original to enjoy ‘Spamilton?’ No, but it helps, as does having a knowledge of the different musicals in general because there are so many Easter Eggs it is hard to pick up on all of them. Everyone does a fabulous performance but Marissa Hecker’s impersonations are spot on, especially her Barbara Streisand and Liza Minelli. ‘Spamilton’ is a non-stop singing and dancing spectacular and the laughs come early on and stick around for the entire show. There is no intermission and the smaller venue at the Empire Theatre gives it a more intimate feel. It is a definite must-see.

Theater review: ‘Miss Saigon’ at the Majestic Theatre

Now playing at the Majestic Theatre is Cameron Mackintosh’s acclaimed new production of Boublil and Schönberg’s legendary musical ‘Miss Saigon,’ a smash hit in London, Broadway and across the UK. It is based on Giacomo Puccini’s opera ‘Madame Butterfly’ and similarly tells the tragic story of a doomed romance involving an Asian woman abandoned by her American lover. The setting of ‘Miss Saigon’ is relocated to 1970s Saigon during the Vietnam War and ‘Madame Butterfly’s’ story of marriage between an American lieutenant and a geisha is replaced by a romance between a United States Marine and a seventeen-year old South Vietnamese bargirl. This highly anticipated engagement will play for eight performances through Sunday January 12 with upcoming performances on Thursday at 7:30p.m., Friday at 8p.m., Saturday at 2p.m. and 8p.m. and Sunday at 2p.m. and 7:30p.m. Tickets start at $45 and are available online, by calling Ticketmaster at 1-800-982-2787, or by visiting the Majestic Box Office.

‘Miss Saigon’ begins in April 1975 at “Dreamland,” a Saigon bar and brothel, shortly before the end of the Vietnam War where it is Kim’s (Emily Bautista) first day working at as a bargirl. She is a teenage peasant lured in by the Engineer (Red Concepción), a hustler who owns the bar and the rest of the workers tease her for her inexperience. U.S. Marines are there to party with the Vietnamese sex workers knowing they will be leaving soon. “The Heat Is On” This is where Chris Scott (Anthony Festa) meets Kim and they spend the night together. “The Transaction” They soon fall in love “Sun and Moon” and Chris promises to take her with him when he leaves Vietnam “Last Night of the World.” They get separated during the fall of Saigon and reconnect years later but Chris is already married. When he finds out that he and Kim had a son (Tam), he promises to take care of them. Not wanting to break her promise to Tam that he would one day meet his father, she makes the ultimate sacrifice to ensure he has the future he deserves. “Little God of My Heart”

This new production is unlike the usual featured at the Majestic Theater. With themes including war, lost loves and suicide, it is darker than most audiences are used to but is well worth experiencing. It includes a sensational cast of 42 performing the soaring score, including Broadway hits like “The Heat is On in Saigon,” “The Movie in My Mind,” “Last Night of the World” and “American Dream.” Even though the Engineer is a money-grubbing hustler, he provides much needed comic relief and quickly becomes an audience favorite, especially during “The American Dream” where he fantasizes about the glamorous life he will have in America. On Wednesday, during one of the most intense scenes, “Kim’s Nightmare (Fall of Saigon 1975)” there was a technical glitch but the expert crew had the show back on track within minutes. Anthony Festa and Emily Bautista have excellent stage chemistry and are believable as the doomed lovers and Anthony’s anguished scream during the final scene is heartbreaking. Show highlights include “Sun and Moon,” when the couple falls in love, “The Morning of the Dragon” during the parade celebrating the anniversary of Vietnam’s unification because of the gorgeous costumes and dancing and “You Will Not Touch Him” when Kim saves Tam’s life. Overall, “Miss Saigon” is an intense and tragic tale of lost love and war but is a must-see production for fans of the genre.

Majestic Theater disclaimer: ‘Miss Saigon’ contains some scenes and language which may not be suitable for younger audience members, including scenes of a sexual nature. The production includes strobe lights, gun shots and pyrotechnic effects. We encourage patrons to consider these factors when making their decision about attending the performance. Recommended for ages 14 and up.

Theater review: ‘Dear Evan Hansen’ at the Majestic Theatre

After a successful opening night, ‘Dear Evan Hansen’ continues this week at the Majestic Theatre until Sunday December 22. A letter that was never meant to be seen, a lie that was never meant to be told, a life he never dreamed he could have. Evan Hansen is about to get the one thing he has always wanted: a chance to finally fit in. ‘Dear Evan Hanen’ is the deeply personal and profoundly contemporary musical about life and the way we live it. Tickets start at $45 and are available online or at the box office. Showtimes Friday at 8p.m., Saturday at 2p.m. and 8p.m. and Sunday at 2p.m. and 7:30p.m.

‘Dear Evan Hansen’ revolves around Evan Hansen (Stephen Christopher Anthony), a teenager with social anxiety whose therapist recommends he write letters to himself detailing what will be good about each new day. His mother Heidi (Jessica E. Sherman) suggests to him that one way to make friends at school is to ask people to sign his cast. On the other side of town, the Murphy family, consisting of Cynthia (Claire Rankin), Larry (Alessandro Costantini) and their children Zoe (Stephanie La Rochelle) and Connor (Noah Kieserman), start their day yelling at each other. Both mothers wonder how to best connect with their sons “Anybody Have a Map?” At school, Evan has a confrontation with Connor and Zoe, whom Evan has a crush on, apologizes for her brother’s behavior. He is left to ponder whether his destiny is to be an outcast and forever ignored “Waving Through a Window” and then writes himself a letter. In it, he mentions Zoe and after Connor accidentally finds it, he thinks Evan is making fun of him and storms out, taking the letter with him. A few days later, Connor kills himself and that letter is found in his pocket which leads Connor’s parents to think it is a suicide note. Evan lies and makes people believe he was best friends with Connor until one lies leads to others and it eventually becomes too big for him to handle.

The winner of six 2017 Tony Awards, including Best Musical, ‘Dear Evan Hansen’ features a book by Tony Award-winner Steven Levenson and a score by Grammy, Tony and Academy Award winners Benj Pasek and Justin Paul. A musical for the modern era, the setting consists mostly of digital screens displaying social media feeds that change with the story. Its universal themes of family, mental illness and teen suicide resonates with the mostly younger audience and even though there are numerous dark moments, it encourages an open dialogue. The fighting and yelling gets too loud towards the end but it serves to spotlight just how harmful and traumatic such moments can be for everyone involved. Stephen Christopher Anthony’s excellent portrayal of Evan is a sobering reminder of the natural human desire to fit in. Show highlights include Evan’s “Waving Through a Window” and “You Will Be Found” when Evan gives a heartfelt speech, which goes viral, about his loneliness and “friendship” with Connor. Overall, ‘Dear Evan Hansen’ is an inspiring musical about life, family, love, acceptance and the lies people tell in a desperate attempt to belong.

Theater review: ‘Elf The Musical’ at The Public Theater

elfmusical — James R.Welch as Buddy the Elf in The Public Theater’s production of ‘Elf The Musical.’ Photo: Siggi Ragnar, used with permission.

Now playing at The Public Theater of San Antonio’s Russell Hill Rogers auditorium is ‘Elf The Musical.’ Time is running out to catch this modern day holiday classic before it ends on Sunday December 22. ‘Elf The Musical’ is the story of Buddy the Elf who embarks on a journey to discover his true identity and is determined to win over his new family. Tickets are available online and at the box office by calling (210) 733-7258. Prices are $45 for adults, $35 for military members with ID, $25 for seniors age 60 and older and students with ID and $20 for children aged 12 and under. Showtimes are Friday and Saturday at 7:30p.m. and Sunday at 2p.m. Education Night for Thursday December 19 is sold out.

‘Elf The Musical’ begins as Santa (Robert M. Moritz) sits down to watch TV after delivering presents only to discover that the football game he wanted to watch was recorded over. So instead, he decides to tell the audience the story of Buddy, the Elf. The story moves to the North Pole, where Buddy (James R. Welch), an oversized elf, is excited about another day working in Santa’s workshop. “Happy All the Time” At work, the shop manager (Kennith Andrew Patterson) informs the Elves that they must work harder this year because more and more humans do not believe in Santa and that Christmas spirit is what makes Santa’s sleigh fly. While on a break, Buddy finds out he is actually a human and, with Santa’s approval, goes to New York City in search of his father, Walter Hobbs (Brandon R. Mace).

Buddy locates Walter but finds a less than enthusiastic father who is forced to take Buddy with him to work. Now wearing a business suit, Buddy’s curiosity and playfulness are a distraction and when he mistakenly shreds an important manuscript, Walter tells Buddy to get out of his life. He ends up at a Chinese restaurant with several other “Santas” and “Elves” on Christmas Eve who complain about Christmas and children. “Nobody Cares About Santa.” During this time, Buddy forgets that he should be out on a date with Jovie, a co-worker (Mariel Ardila) who is upset and waiting in front of the restaurant where they were supposed to meet. “Never Fall in Love.” Eventually, Buddy is accepted by his father, finds love with Jovie and decides not to return to the North Pole with Santa.

Elf is one of the most beloved Christmas movies and ‘Elf The Musical’ is a wonderful adaptation of the hit New Line Cinema film by David Berenbaum. With a book by Thomas Meehan and Bob Martin, music by Matthew Sklar and lyrics by Chad Beguelin it brings the story of Buddy the Elf, who was raised among the elves in the North Pole, to life. The comedy and charming story translate well on stage and James R. Welch is the perfect choice to portray the loveable and innocent Buddy. Show highlights include “Happy All the Time” at the North Pole where the elves are happily working building toys and “Nobody Cares About Santa” when the different “Santas” complain about the state of Christmas. The bright and cheerful staging and costumes leaves little doubt that this is a Christmas musical and it is hard not to smile through the entire production. ‘Elf The Musical’ is a fun family friendly production and a must-see to celebrate the holiday season.

Theater review: ‘A Christmas Carol, the Musical’ at the Woodlawn Theatre

After a successful opening weekend, ‘A Christmas Carol, the Musical’ continues tonight at the Woodlawn Theatre and runs until Monday December 23. ‘A Christmas Carol, the Musical’ is the story of the mean-spirited Ebenezer Scrooge who, on Christmas Eve, receives visits from the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Yet to Be and is given a chance for redemption. This family friendly holiday production plays Friday and Saturday at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday at 3p.m. Ticket are: Adults $30, Senior/Military/First Responders $24, Children/Student $18 and are available online or by calling the Box Office at 210-267-8388.

‘A Christmas Carol, the Musical’ takes place on Christmas Eve in 1843 in London where Ebenezer Scrooge (Isidro Medina), an ageing miser who dislikes Christmas, first encounters the three ghosts of Christmas as a candle lighter-Past (Jillian Sainz), a charity show barker-Present (Bob Galindo) and an old beggar woman-Yet to Be (Giselle Galindo). “Nothing To Do With Me” That night at home, Scrooge is visited by the ghost of his deceased business partner, Jacob Marley, (Michael Cooling) who warns him to repent or face condemnation in the afterlife and informs him that three spirits will visit him during the night. “Link by Link” As Jacob Marley predicted, the ghosts visit Scrooge at one, two and three o’clock that night. They remind him of his past, show him the joys of Christmas Day in the present and foretell a grim future if he does not change his ways. Recognizing his faults, Scrooge wakes up on Christmas Day and greets Christmas morning with a cheerful “Happy Christmas” before spending the day reconnecting, making amends and sharing love with those who mean the most to him.

With the holiday season in full swing, now is the time to enjoy a holiday classic like ‘A Christmas Carol, the Musical’ with the family. It has music by Alan Menken, lyrics by Lynn Ahrens and book by Mike Ockrent and Lynn Ahrens and is a delightful reminder of the magic of the season. From the first notes of “Hear the Bells,” the audience is surrounded by Christmas cheer and nostalgia from this classic production. For those who think they have seen it all, there is always something new to discover about the story. Show highlights include the hilarious “Link by Link” when the ghost of Jacob Marley and other ghosts visit Scrooge and “Fezziwig’s Annual Christmas Ball” in the Present, during the big Christmas party, which has an abundance of singing and amazing dance sequences. With outstanding performances by the entire cast, beautiful costumes and plenty of holiday cheer, ‘A Christmas Carol, the Musical’ is a production the entire family can enjoy together. It is definitely a must-see. The show is shorter than expected and runs two hours with a 15 minute intermission.

Upcoming promotional nights.
Pride Night – Friday December 13, 25% off tickets with code: PRIDE
ASL (American Sign Language) Night – Saturday December 21 – 25% off tickets with code: ASL

Show review: ‘Blue Man Group Speechless Tour’ at the Majestic Theatre

bluemangroup19 — The Blue Man Group performs at the Majestic Theatre through Sunday November 24. Photo: Blue Man Group, used with permission.

Opening night pre-show energy at the Majestic Theatre last night was unmistakable as the audience awaited the return of the Blue Man Group to San Antonio, part of the North Park Lexus Broadway in San Antonio 2019-2020 season. Fans of all ages came to witness the multimedia sensation made up of the blue tinted, wide eyed men who have delighted people worldwide without uttering a single word. Tickets start at $40.

The ‘Blue Man Group Speechless Tour’ features new and original compositions, acts and instruments alongside iconic Blue Man Group moments based in joy, art, music, laughter and escapist absurdity. It is the same blue but the rest is new at this interactive experience perfect for the whole family. The Blue Man characters embark on a fresh journey of discovery on this all-new tour, the result of more than 27 years spent observing humanity. The tour features material that fosters communal moments, continues the evolution of tube-based instruments to support all new music and includes large-scale audience participation. Blue Man Group is the global entertainment phenomenon, known for its award-winning theatrical productions, iconic characters and multiple creative explorations. The performances are euphoric celebrations of human connection through art, music, comedy and non-verbal communication.

The Blue Man Group is universally appealing to a broad range of age groups and cultural backgrounds as evident by last night’s make up of the audience. Without giving too much away, this is a one of a kind show and must be experienced with fresh eyes not knowing what to expect. The often heart pounding music, percussions and a guitar, is loud but not as loud as in previous productions and there are plenty of bright and flashing lights. Audience participation segments include the blue men walking among the audience while they appear on screens and three audience members appear in skits. As always, the shaming of late-comers draws the most laughter. The combination of comedy, music and technology with some science lessons snuck in makes for a show the entire family can enjoy. It has a rock concert vibe that ends in a party like celebration.

There are only three more chances to catch this electrifying show. It plays until Sunday.

Saturday November 23 at 8p.m.
Sunday November 24 at 2p.m. and 7:30p.m.

This is an hour and a half show with no intermission.

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