Tickets on sale Friday for ‘The Lion King’ at the Majestic Theatre

Gerald Ramsey as Mufasa in Disney’s ‘The Lion King.’ Photo: Matthew Murphy, used with permission.

Disney Theatrical Productions and North Park Lexus Broadway in San Antonio announced yesterday that tickets for the long-awaited return engagement of Disney’s ‘The Lion King’ will go on sale to the public at 10a.m., Friday, July 30. San Antonio’s most eagerly awaited return will once again leap onto the Majestic Theatre stage Wednesday, October 20 for a limited engagement of three weeks through Sunday, November 7. The show’s four-week engagement in 2015 played a sold-out run at the Majestic Theatre. Disney’s ‘The Lion King’ will play Tuesdays through Thursdays at 7:30p.m., Fridays at 8p.m., Saturdays at 2p.m. and 8p.m. and Sundays at 1p.m. and 6:30p.m. (North Park Lexus Broadway in San Antonio, 2021)

Tickets for Disney’s ‘The Lion King’ start at $30 and are available by calling Ticketmaster at (866) 870.2717, online, or at all Ticketmaster outlets including the Majestic Box Office. The Majestic Box Office does not accept single ticket orders over the phone; all ticket sales must be made in person. Premium Ticket Packages, which include a prime seat location, a souvenir program and an exclusive cinch bag, are also available. Majestic Box Office hours are noon to 5p.m. Monday through Thursday, 10a.m. to 5p.m., Friday. Saturday hours vary weekly, call (210) 226.3333 to verify. Orders for groups of 10 or more may be placed by calling (210) 226-5967.

Ticket buyers are reminded that Ticketmaster and the Majestic Box Office are the only official retail ticket outlets for all performances at the Majestic Theatre. Ticket buyers who purchase tickets from a ticket broker or any third party should be aware that the Majestic Theatre is unable to reprint or replace lost or stolen tickets and is unable to contact patrons with information regarding time changes or other pertinent updates regarding the performance.

Welcoming audiences, artists, staff, cast and crew back to the Majestic Theatre at full capacity safely and responsibly remains Broadway in San Antonio’s top priority. Masks will be required while in the theatre for this performance. Health and safety protocols are subject to change and will be clearly communicated to ticket holders in advance of each performance. Current protocols are available online.

Disney’s ‘The Lion King’ is a musical based on the 1994 Walt Disney Animation Studios’ animated feature film of the same name with music by Elton John, lyrics by Tim Rice, and book by Roger Allers and Irene Mecchi, with additional music and lyrics by Lebo M, Mark Mancina, Jay Rifkin, Julie Taymor, and Hans Zimmer. The musical features actors in animal costumes as well as giant, hollow puppets.

After 24 landmark years on Broadway, Disney’s ‘The Lion King’ continues ascendant as one of the most popular stage musicals in the world. Since its premiere on November 13, 1997, nearly 110 million people have seen 25 global productions. Produced by Disney Theatrical Productions (under the direction of Thomas Schumacher), Disney’s ‘The Lion King’ has made theatrical history with six productions running 15 or more years and four others running 20 or more years.

Disney’s ‘The Lion King’ won six 1998 Tony Awards® : Best Musical, Best Scenic Design (Richard Hudson), Best Costume Design (Julie Taymor), Best Lighting Design (Donald Holder), Best Choreography (Garth Fagan) and Best Direction of a Musical.

Majestic Theatre

Tickets for ‘My Fair Lady’ at the Majestic Theatre go on sale Friday

Leslie Alexander as Mrs. Higgins, Shereen Ahmed as Eliza Doolittle and Kevin Pariseau as Colonel Pickering in The Lincoln Center Theater Production of Lerner & Loewe’s ‘My Fair Lady.’ Photo: Joan Marcus, used with permission.

North Park Lexus Broadway in San Antonio is pleased to announce that the North American tour of Lincoln Center Theater’s critically acclaimed production of Lerner & Loewe’s ‘My Fair Lady’ relaunches the Majestic Theatre 2021-2022 Broadway in San Antonio season. Directed by Bartlett Sher, the North American tour will play eight performances September 21-26 at the Majestic Theatre. Tickets start at $45 and are available online, by calling Ticketmaster at (800) 982.ARTS (2787), or by visiting the Majestic Box Office. The Majestic Box Office does not accept single ticket orders over the phone; all ticket sales must be made in person. Majestic Box Office hours are noon to 5p.m. Monday through Thursday, 10a.m. to 5p.m. Friday. Weekend hours vary, call (210) 226.3333 to verify. Orders for groups of 10 or more may be placed by calling (210) 226-5967. (North Park Lexus Broadway in San Antonio, 2021)

Tickets go on sale this Friday July 9 at 10a.m. Performance times are 7:30p.m., Tuesday through Thursday; 8p.m. on Friday; 2p.m. and 8p.m., Saturday and at 2p.m. and 7:30p.m. on Sunday. Welcoming audiences, artists, staff, cast, and crew back to the Majestic Theatre at full capacity safely and responsibly remains Broadway in San Antonio’s top priority. Masks will be required while in the theatre for this performance. Health and safety protocols are subject to change and will be clearly communicated to ticket holders in advance of each performance. Current protocols are available online.

Lincoln Center Theater’s production of Lerner & Loewe’s ‘My Fair Lady’ is the winner of 5 Outer Critics Circle Awards including Best Revival of Musical and was nominated for 10 Tony Awards including Best Musical Revival, 5 Drama Desk Awards including Best Musical Revival and 3 Drama League Awards including Best Musical Revival. The production, which premiered in the spring of 2018, ended its long run at Lincoln Center’s Vivian Beaumont Theater on July 7, 2019 after playing 548 performances.

Adapted from George Bernard Shaw’s play and Gabriel Pascal’s motion picture Pygmalion, ‘My Fair Lady,’ with a book and lyrics by Alan Jay Lerner and music by Frederick Loewe, premiered on Broadway on March 15, 1956. The legendary original production won 6 Tony Awards including Best Musical and ran for 2,717 performances making it, at the time, the longest-running musical in Broadway history. The story concerns Eliza Doolittle, a Cockney flower girl who takes speech lessons from professor Henry Higgins so that she may pass as a lady.

Boasting a score that contains such now-classic songs as “I Could Have Danced All Night,” “Get Me to the Church on Time,” “Wouldn’t It Be Loverly,” “On the Street Where You Live,” “The Rain in Spain,” and “I’ve Grown Accustomed to Her Face,” Lincoln Center Theater’s production of ‘My Fair Lady’ was hailed by The New York Times as “Thrilling, glorious and better than it ever was. A marvelous and transformative revival.” New York Magazine described it as ‘Enthralling,” adding that “Bartlett Sher’s glowing revival proves that a beloved musical from another era can keep on kicking.” Entertainment Weekly raved “A sumptuous new revival of the most perfect musical of all time. A masterful piece of entertainment.”

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Opening night of ‘My Fair Lady’

Broadway in San Antonio relaunches season at the Majestic Theatre

Cody Garcia as Willy Wonka and company. Roald Dahl’s ‘Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.’ Photo: Jeremy Daniel, used with permission.

rth Park Lexus Broadway in San Antonio announces the return of touring Broadway to the Majestic Theatre this fall. The season relaunches with seven shows, as previously anticipated, including rescheduled engagements of ‘Disney’s The Lion King,’ ‘Mean Girls,’ and ‘Summer: The Donna Summer Musical,’ plus an eighth show addition of ‘Hamilton’ for its two-week return. ‘Rent’ and ‘Beautiful – The Carole King Musical’ rejoin the lineup as season options. Unfortunately, Broadway in San Antonio was unable to reschedule ‘To Kill a Mockingbird’ or Season Option ‘Riverdance.’ ‘To Kill a Mockingbird’ will make its San Antonio premiere in a future season. Season tickets are on sale now. (North Park Lexus Broadway in San Antonio, 2021)

‘My Fair Lady’ – September 21-26, 2021
From Lincoln Center Theater that brought you ‘The King & I’ and ‘South Pacific,’ comes Lerner & Loewe’s ‘My Fair Lady.’ Director Bartlett Sher’s glowing production is “thrilling, glorious and better than it ever was” (The New York Times).

‘Disney’s The Lion King’ – October 21-November 7, 2021
San Antonio’s best-loved musical returns to the Majestic Theatre. Winner of six Tony Awards®, including Best Musical, this landmark musical event brings together one of the most imaginative creative teams on Broadway. Tony Award®-winning director Julie Taymor brings to life a story filled with hope and adventure set against an amazing backdrop of stunning visuals.

‘Charlie and the Chocolate Factory’ – December 7-12, 2021
Roald Dahl’s ‘Charlie and the Chocolate Factory’ amazing tale is now the Alamo city’s golden ticket. It is the perfect recipe for a delectable treat: songs from the original film, including “Pure Imagination,” “The Candy Man,” and “I’ve Got a Golden Ticket,” alongside a toe-tapping and ear-tickling new score from the songwriters of Hairspray

‘Hamilton’ – January 5-16, 2022 (Make it an 8-show package)
‘Hamilton’ is the story of America then, told by America now. Featuring a score that blends hip-hop, jazz, R&B and Broadway, ‘Hamilton’ has taken the story of American founding father Alexander Hamilton and created a revolutionary moment in theatre ─ a musical that has had a profound impact on culture, politics, and education. With book, music and lyrics by Lin-Manuel Miranda, direction by Thomas Kail, choreography by Andy Blankenbuehler, and musical supervision and orchestrations by Alex Lacamoire, ‘Hamilton’ is based on Ron Chernow’s acclaimed biography.

‘Tootsie’ – March 1-6, 2022
This laugh-out-loud love letter to the theater tells the story of Michael Dorsey, a talented but difficult actor who struggles to find work until one show-stopping act of desperation lands him the role of a lifetime. Featuring a hilarious Tony®-winning book by Robert Horn and an outrageously clever score by 2018 Tony-winner David Yazbek, this The New York Times Critic’s Pick is “a joyful delight.”

‘Summer: The Donna Summer Musical’ – April 19-24, 2022
She was a girl from Boston with a voice from heaven, who shot through the stars from gospel choir to dance floor diva. But what the world did not know was how Donna Summer risked it all to break through barriers, becoming the icon of an era and the inspiration for every music diva who followed. With a score featuring more than 20 of Summer’s classic hits including “Love to Love You Baby,” “Bad Girls” and “Hot Stuff,” this electric experience is a moving tribute to the voice of a generation.

‘Jesus Christ Superstar’ – July 5-10, 2022
‘Jesus Christ Superstar’ is an iconic musical phenomenon with a world-wide fan base. In celebration of its 50th Anniversary, a mesmerizing new production comes to North America. Originally staged by London’s Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre and helmed by the acclaimed director Timothy Sheader and award-winning choreographer Drew McOnie, this production won the 2017 Olivier Award for Best Musical Revival garnering unprecedented reviews and accolades.

‘Mean Girls’ – August 9-14, 2022
The story of a naïve newbie who falls prey to a trio of lionized frenemies, ‘Mean Girls’ “delivers with immense energy, a wicked sense of humor and joyful inside-jokery.” 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.

‘Rent’ – March 18-20, 2022 (Season Option)
For a quarter of a century, ‘Rent’ has inspired us to choose love over fear and to live without regret. This Tony Award and Pulitzer Prize-winning phenomenon has become more than a musical – it is a cultural touchstone and a source of joy and strength for millions. ‘Rent’s’ 25th Anniversary “Farewell Season of Love” is your FINAL CHANCE to experience this celebrated touring production.

‘Beautiful – The Carole King Musical’ – June 10-12, 2022 (Season Option)
‘Beautiful’ tells the Tony® and Grammy® Award-winning 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.

North Park Lexus Broadway in San Antonio season packages are now available starting at $335. Once you purchase a 7-show package, you will have priority access later this Spring to secure your same package seats for ‘Hamilton.’ For more information, patrons can visit BroadwayInSanAntonio.com or call Broadway in San Antonio at 800-215-7469, from 9a.m. to 5p.m., Monday through Friday.

The well-being of theatre patrons, performers, touring, and local teams is top priority. Prior to each performance, Broadway in San Antonio and the Majestic Theatre will communicate the current COVID-19 health and safety plan and protocol in accordance with local, state, and federal governmental guidelines.

“We could not be happier to share this news and are thrilled that it was possible to reschedule nine of the previously postponed or canceled titles and add the special return engagement of ‘Hamilton.’ This relaunch brings more than 11 weeks of the best of Broadway to the Majestic and Houston Street. We’re optimistic and grateful for the support of our patrons, partners, and team throughout this extended intermission.” – Emily Smith, general manager, Majestic Theatre

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.

North Park Lexus Broadway in San Antonio season 2020-2021 at the Majestic Theatre

myfairlady — (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 50^th 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 25^th Anniversary Show’ – May 7-9, 2021 (Season Option)
‘Riverdance 25^th 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

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: ‘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.

Tickets for the 20th anniversary tour of ‘Rent’ go on sale Friday

rent20 — The 20th Anniversary Tour of ‘Rent’ returns to the Majestic Theatre in March and tickets go on sale Friday. Photo: Google

North Park Lexus Broadway in San Antonio announces that due to popular demand, the 20^th anniversary tour of ‘Rent’ will return to San Antonio for five performances Friday May 1 through Sunday May 3, 2020 at the Majestic Theatre. Performance times are 8p.m. Friday, 2p.m. and 8p.m. Saturday and 2p.m. and 7:30p.m., Sunday. Tickets go on sale Friday, December 13 at 10a.m., start at $40 and are available online, by calling Ticketmaster at (800) 982-2787, or by visiting the Majestic Box Office. The Majestic Box Office does not accept single ticket orders over the phone; all ticket sales must be made in person. Majestic Box Office hours are 10a.m. to 5p.m. Monday through Friday. Saturday hours vary weekly, call (210) 226-3333 to verify. Orders for groups of 10 or more may be placed by calling (210) 226-5967. (North Park Lexus Broadway in San Antonio, 2019)

‘Rent’ is set in the East Village of New York City and is an inspiring musical about friends and artists struggling with addiction, poverty and most of all love. Winner of the Tony Award® for Best Musical and the Pulitzer Prize for Drama, it is a re-imagining of Puccini’s La Bohème and follows an unforgettable year in the lives of seven struggling artists in New York’s Lower East Side. With its universal themes of love and hardships it has become a pop culture phenomenon that appeals to people of all ages. Its message of joy and hope in the face of fear reminds people to measure their lives with love, which is the only thing that matters.

In 1996, an original rock musical by a little-known composer opened on Broadway and forever changed the landscape of American theater. Two decades later, Jonathan Larson’s ‘Rent’ continues to speak loudly and defiantly to audiences across generations and all over the world. And now, this Pulitzer Prize and Tony Award®-winning masterpiece returns to the stage in a vibrant 20th anniversary touring production. Based on original direction by Michael Greif, Evan Ensign re-stages the 20^th anniversary tour. Original Broadway creatives Marlies Yearby, Angela Wendt and Tim Weil are joined by Jonathan Spencer, Keith Caggiano, MiRi Park and Matthew E. Maraffi to make up the creative team for the tour.

Majestic Theatre
224 E. Houston St.
San Antonio, TX 78205
(210) 226-3333

Tickets for Disney’s ‘Aladdin’ go on sale Friday

aladdinmusical — Tickets for ‘Aladdin’ go on sale this Friday November 15. Photo: Google

Disney Theatrical Productions and North Park Lexus Broadway in San Antonio announced this week that tickets for the long-awaited engagement of Disney’s ‘Aladdin’ at the Majestic Theatre will go on sale to the public at 10a.m., Friday, November 15. ‘Aladdin’ follows the familiar tale of a poor young man who is granted three wishes by a genie in a lamp which he uses to woo a princess and to thwart the sultan’s evil Grand Vizier.

Performances begin Wednesday, March 25, 2020 for a limited engagement of three weeks through Sunday, April 12. Performances are Tuesdays through Thursdays at 7:30p.m.; Fridays at 8p.m.; Saturdays at 2p.m. and 8p.m. and Sundays at 1p.m. and 6:30p.m. Additional matinee performances are on Thursday, March 26 at 2 p.m. and Friday, April 10 at 2 p.m. Tickets start at $36 and are available by calling Disney’s Broadway Hotline at (866) 870-2717, online or by visiting the Majestic Box Office. The Majestic Box Office does not accept single ticket orders over the phone; all ticket sales must be made in person. Majestic Box Office hours are 10a.m. to 5p.m. Monday through Friday. Saturday hours vary weekly, call (210) 226-3333 to verify. Orders for groups of 10 or more may be placed by calling (210) 226-5967. (North Park Lexus Broadway in San Antonio, 2019)

‘Aladdin,’ adapted from the animated Disney film and centuries-old folktales including “One Thousand and One Nights,” is brought to fresh theatrical life in this bold new musical. Aladdin’s journey sweeps audiences into an exotic world of daring adventure, classic comedy and timeless romance. This new production features a full score, including the five cherished songs from the Academy Award-winning soundtrack and more written especially for the stage. ‘Aladdin’ is designed by seven-time Tony-winning scenic designer Bob Crowley, six-time Tony-winning lighting designer Natasha Katz, two-time Tony-winning costume designer Gregg Barnes and sound designer Ken Travis. Produced by Disney Theatrical Productions, under the direction of Thomas Schumacher, the show features music by Tony Award and eight-time Oscar^® winner Alan Menken, lyrics by two-time Oscar winner Howard Ashman, three-time Tony Award and three-time Oscar winner Tim Rice and six-time Tony Award nominee Chad Beguelin with a book by Beguelin and is directed and choreographed by Tony Award winner Casey Nicholaw.