Couture on Tour: An Emily in Paris Experience. The beloved Netflix series Emily in Paris is going on tour with a theatrical Parisian fashion show event. Photo: ATG Entertainment, used with permission.
San Antonio, TX – Bonjour Emily in Paris lovers! Couture on Tour: An Emily in Paris Experience is bringing the fan-favorite Netflix series, produced by MTV Entertainment Studios and creator Darren Star (Beverly Hills, 90210, Sex and the City, Younger), across the country with 25+ tour stops this Spring and Summer 2025. From their fashion to the dreamy Parisian scenery, this unique sidewalk-to-stage event, brought to you by Atomic Venus Media in partnership with Paramount, is coming to San Antonio on May 19,2025. Tickets are now on sale. (ATG Entertainment, 2024)
“My own adventures deeply inspired my journey in crafting Emily in Paris in Paris during my 20s,” said Darren Star. “I am thrilled that fans will be able to enjoy an experience that will transport audiences into Emily’s enchanting world. As we celebrate the fourth season now streaming on Netflix and the exciting renewal for a fifth season, the profound connection fans have with the characters is what gives this series its enduring appeal. I am excited for this elevated live event for Emily in Paris enthusiasts across the nation.”
Atomic Venus Media (AVM), founded by former WME agent ElizBeth Jones, produces custom content, tours, and experiences around popular film and TV properties. AVM brings over 100 years of combined entertainment expertise to the stage. “I could not be more thrilled to launch AVM’s first large tour with Emily in Paris,” says Jones. “Bringing Darren Star’s incomparable writing and character development to life through a female-led production company is deeply meaningful. As he has proved time and time again, Fashion is Art and Art is for Everyone. This tour will captivate audiences in ways they haven’t seen before. As live experiences become the future bedrock of our industry, we are creating Couture on Tour to be a unique standout, offering fans a chance to journey into Emily’s world.”
The theatrical fashion show will have theaters across the country pulsing with the ambience of La Trompette Bleue while pieces from Emily in Paris, inspired by costume designer – and Couture on Tour Creative Consultant – Marylin Fitoussi take the stage. Beyond the fashion show, the Emily in Paris Experience will bring to life the streets of Paris and transport visitors into Emily’s world. Visitors will also have the opportunity to dip into Emily’s wardrobe, immerse themselves in scenes from the show and take home a piece of Paris with items from on-site displays and shops.
“The beauty and fashion of Emily in Paris will make for a unique and whimsical in-person experience for fans,” said Marie Marks, SVP of Themed Entertainment, Paramount. “We are thrilled to partner with Atomic Venus to bring the style of Paris to the streets of the US.” Couture on Tour: An Emily in ParisExperience will kick off in Spring of 2025 and will travel across the states to cities such as Denver, Atlanta, Nashville, Kansas City, St Louis, Milwaukee, Ft Lauderdale, and more. Tickets are now available for purchase and start at $40 in select markets. All markets will include a VIP ticket which will include a fully curated experience and keepsake items.
The special version of the beloved film and Broadway show will debut in San Antonio for the first time. Photo: Children’s Ballet of San Antonio, used with permission.
Go back to school with the Children’s Ballet of San Antonio and their first-ever musical production, the smart and ferociously funny Mean Girls JR. Premiering Friday, April 5 at the Dance Center of San Antonio’s brand-new Black Box Theatre, the production adapts Tina Fey’s iconic movie and subsequent Broadway smash hit for audiences of all ages, presented by a cast of the region’s finest young performers. (Children’s Ballet of San Antonio, 2024)
Mean Girls JR. tells the story of student Cady Heron who must learn to navigate the treacherous social hierarchy of high school when her family moves to suburban Illinois from Kenya. Cady may have grown up on an African savanna, but nothing prepared her for the wild and vicious ways of her new school. How will this naive newbie rise to the top of the popularity pecking order? By taking on “The Plastics,” a trio of lionized frenemies led by the charming but ruthless Regina George. But when Cady devises a plan to end Regina’s reign, she learns the hard way that you can’t cross a queen bee without getting stung.
Showtimes: Friday, April 5 at 7:30p.m., Saturday, April 6 at 7:30p.m., Sunday, April 7 at 2p.m. and 6p.m. Tickets: $20, available for purchase online
Mean Girls JR. is a version of the hit musical Mean Girls that has been adapted for performance by students. The musical, featuring a book by Tina Fey (30 Rock), lyrics by Nell Benjamin (Legally Blonde), and music by composer Jeff Richmond (Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt), was adapted from Fey’s 2004 film. Mean Girls opened on Broadway in 2018 and was nominated for 12 Tony Awards.
The Children’s Ballet of San Antonio and its sponsor school, the Dance Center of San Antonio, are the leading providers of youth dance instruction and performance opportunities in the region. In less than 10 years, CBSA performers and Dance Center students have won numerous international awards and world-renowned scholarships, and founder Vanessa Bessler is a nine-time consecutive winner of Youth America Grand Prix’s Outstanding Teacher of the Year. The Dance Center was recently recognized as among the top 2.5 percent of dance institutions in the nation. Local audiences delight in CBSA’s biannual professional-grade performances held in San Antonio’s top theatres. Now CBSA is pleased to bring another performing arts opportunity to San Antonio with this Broadway-style musical, the first show to be held in the Dance Center of San Antonio’s new venue, the Black Box Theatre.
Among the stunningly talented CBSA cast are Valeria Velasco as Regina and Madison Aikens as Cady, both committed students of the Dance Center of San Antonio’s Musical Theater day program. Aikens recently won Best Performer in a Musical at the 2023 Broadway World Austin awards. Velasco, is a member of the Texas Cultural Trust’s Young Masters Program, a prestigious scholarship program recognizing excellence in the performing arts. These stars and their CBSA cast members are supported by an experienced production team including specialists in vocal performance, choreography, and theater direction.
The interactive, multimedia production is the perfect show to debut in the new Black Box Theatre at the Dance Center of San Antonio, an intimate performance venue in North Central San Antonio. “The close proximity of the audience allows for intimate and interactive shows,” says Bessler. “Because the black box theatre allows for multiple configurations and settings, it gives young performers the opportunity to play with and explore the space to make creative artistic choices.”
Mean Girls JR. is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International, one of the world’s leading theatrical licensing agencies. MTI works directly with the composers, lyricists and book writers of these musicals to provide official scripts, musical materials and dynamic theatrical resources to over 70,000 professional, community and school theatres.
Mean Girls JR. is yet another example of the Children’s Ballet of San Antonio’s ambitious vision for youth performing arts. Don’t miss your chance to see San Antonio’s young stars in action as they dance and sing their hearts out in the city’s coziest new theatre.
The Black Box Theatre at Dance Center of San Antonio 126 West Rector Drive, Suite 120 San Antonio, Texas 78216
The North American Tour of ‘Come From Away.’ Photo: Matthew Murphy, used with permission.
‘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.
(center) Sam Simahk as Freddy Eynsford-Hill, Shereen Ahmed as Eliza Doolittle, Kevin Pariseau as Colonel Pickering and Leslie Alexander as Mrs. Higgins in the Lincoln Center Theater Production of Lerner & Loewe’s ‘My Fair Lady.’ Photo by Joan Marcus, used with permission.
The Majestic Theatre announced its line-up of shows for the 2020-2021 North Park Lexus Broadway in San Antonio Season and the line-up features a mix of revivals, Broadway Blockbusters, a dramatic adaptation of a classic novel and pop culture favorites for a season that offers diversity and broad appeal.
North Park Lexus Broadway in San Antonio season packages are now available. Subscribers can choose a six-show package starting at $305 or seven-show package including ‘The Lion King’ starting at $335. Patrons can visit Broadway in San Antonio or call Broadway in San Antonio at 800-215-7469, from 9a.m. to 5p.m., Monday through Friday. Season Subscribers avoid potential single ticket price increases closer to the show by reserving their seats now and enjoy the privilege of priority ticket opportunities, lost ticket replacement, exchange privileges on existing seats and much more. (North Park Lexus Broadway in San Antonio, 2020)
‘My Fair Lady’ – September 22-27, 2020
The Lincoln Center Theater production of Lerner & Loewe’s ‘My Fair Lady.’ Boasting such classic songs as “I Could Have Danced All Night,” “The Rain in Spain,” “Wouldn’t It Be Loverly” and “On the Street Where You Live,” ‘My Fair Lady’ tells the story of Eliza Doolittle, a young Cockney flower seller, and Henry Higgins, a linguistics professor who is determined to transform her into his idea of a “proper lady.” But who is really being transformed?
‘Jesus Christ Superstar’ – December 1-6, 2020
‘Jesus Christ Superstar’ is an iconic musical phenomenon with a world-wide fan base. In celebration of its 50th Anniversary, a new mesmerizing production comes to North America. Featuring award-winning music by Andrew Lloyd Webber and lyrics by Tim Rice, the legendary score includes “I Don’t Know How to Love Him,’ “Gethsemane” and “Superstar,” rock roots that defined a generation. Appealing to both theater audiences and concert music fans, this production pays tribute to the historic 1971 Billboard Album of the Year while creating a modern, theatrical world that is uniquely fresh and inspiring.
‘The Lion King’ – December 17, 2020 – January 10, 2021 (Add to make a seven-show package)
Disney’s ‘The Lion King’ is making its triumphant return to the Majestic Theatre for a three-week run. Tony Award®-winning director Julie Taymor brings to life a story filled with hope and adventure set against an amazing backdrop of stunning visuals. ‘The Lion King’ also features some of Broadway’s most recognizable music, crafted by Tony Award®-winning artists Elton John and Tim Rice. More than 100 million people around the world have experienced the awe-inspiring visual artistry, the unforgettable music and the uniquely theatrical storytelling of this Broadway spectacular – one of the most breathtaking and beloved productions ever to grace the stage.
‘Tootsie’ – January 19-24, 2021
Based on the Oscar®-nominated film, ‘Tootsie’ is being touted as “the best comedy on Broadway” (Forbes). Featuring a Tony Award®-winning book by Robert Horn and an outrageously clever score by 2018 Tony Award® winner David Yazbek, this The New York Times Critic’s Pick is a “hilarious, thoroughly modern ‘Tootsie.” (People Magazine) that’s “even funnier than the movie!” (New York Post).
‘To Kill a Mockingbird’ – February 16-21, 2021
All rise for Academy Award® winner Aaron Sorkin’s adaptation of Harper Lee’s ‘To Kill a Mockingbird,’ with direction by Tony Award® winner Bartlett Sher. ‘To Kill a Mockingbird, “the greatest novel of all time” (Chicago Tribune), has quickly become “one of the greatest plays in history” (NPR).
‘Beautiful – The Carole King Musical’ – March 12-14, 2021 (Season Option)
‘Beautiful – The Carole King Musical’ tells the inspiring true story of King’s remarkable rise to stardom, from being part of a hit songwriting team with her husband Gerry Goffin, to her relationship with fellow writers and best friends Cynthia Weil and Barry Mann, to becoming one of the most successful solo acts in popular music history. Along the way, she made more than beautiful music, she wrote the soundtrack to a generation.
‘Mean Girls’ – March 30- April 4, 2021
Direct from Broadway, ‘Mean Girls’ is the hilarious hit musical from an award-winning creative team, including book writer Tina Fey, composer Jeff Richmond, lyricist Nell Benjamin and director Casey Nicholaw. Cady Heron may have grown up on an African savanna, but nothing prepared her for the vicious ways of her strange new home: suburban Illinois. Soon, this naïve newbie falls prey to a trio of lionized frenemies led by the charming but ruthless Regina George. But when Cady devises a plan to end Regina’s reign, she learns the hard way that you cannot cross a Queen Bee without getting stung.
‘Riverdance 25th Anniversary Show’ – May 7-9, 2021 (Season Option)
‘Riverdance 25th Anniversary Show’ is a powerful and stirring reinvention of the beloved favorite, celebrated the world over for its Grammy Award®-winning score and the thrilling energy and passion of its Irish and international dance. Twenty-five years on, composer Bill Whelan has rerecorded his mesmerizing soundtrack while producer Moya Doherty and director John McColgan have completely reimagined the ground-breaking show with innovative and spectacular lighting, projection, stage and costume designs.
‘The Cher Show’ – July 20-25, 2021
Superstars come and go. Cher is forever. For six straight decades, only one unstoppable force has flat-out dominated popular culture, breaking down barriers, pushing boundaries and letting nothing and no one stand in her way. ‘The Cher Show’ is the Tony Award®-winning musical of her story, and it is packed with so much Cher that it takes three women to play her: the kid starting out, the glam pop star, and the icon. This hit Broadway musical features a book by Tony Award® winner Rick Elice, direction by Tony Award® nominee Jason Moore and choreography by Tony Award® winner Christopher Gattelli. It features 35 smash hit songs including “I Got You Babe,” “If I Could Turn Back Time” and “Believe.”
“Our Broadway in San Antonio subscriber base is evolving, and we are excited to bring a varied lineup this season that offers a wide range of options with cross generational appeal. Our 2020-2021 season delivers pop culture classics, Broadway blockbusters, acclaimed revivals and a dramatic play based on one of the greatest novels of all time.” – Emily Smith, general manager of the Majestic and Charline McCombs Empire Theatres
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.
The company of ‘The SpongeBob Musical,’ now playing at the Majestic Theatre. Photo by Jeremy Daniel, used with permission.
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.
‘Spamilton’ is playing at the Empire Theatre through Sunday January 26. Photo: Google
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.
Emily Bautista as ‘Kim’ and Anthony Festa as ‘Chris’ in the North American Tour of ‘Miss Saigon’ singing “Sun and Moon.” Photo: Matthew Murphy, used with permission.
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.
‘Dear Evan Hansen’ plays at the Majestic Theatre until Sunday December 22. Photo: Matthew Murphy, used with permission.
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.
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.
SA Examiner 