‘The Last Real Showgirl: My Sequined ’70s Onstage’ by Diane Christiansen. Photo: Amazon
Showgirls are known for their dazzling blend of beauty, confidence, and theatrical glamour. Their elaborate costumes, precision choreography, and magnetic stage presence create a spectacle that celebrates femininity, fantasy, and performance art. Often associated with Las Vegas or classic cabarets, showgirls evoke nostalgia for a bygone era of entertainment while continuing to evolve with modern flair. Visually appealing, they also possess a charisma and skill which they bring to the stage. Audiences are drawn to the magic, energy, and escape showgirls offer—a vibrant celebration of artistry, elegance, and the enduring power of performance.
If you’ve ever been curious about what it’s like to be a showgirl, consider the new memoir by Diane Christiansen. “The Last Real Showgirl: My Sequined ‘70s Onstage” gives readers an insight into the reality of being a showgirl in the ’70s — in the heyday of star-studded productions from Paris to Las Vegas. It’s a true story, by a real showgirl, that’s filled with surprises. (CS Lewis Publicity, 2025)
Diane Christiansen‘s career has spanned five decades as an actress, dancer, author, director, producer, writer, costume designer, and studio owner. She is an acting coach to many acclaimed actors on television shows like Euphoria, This is Us, Dickinson, Stranger Things, Sandman, Quantum Leap and countless other well-known and popular TV shows and movies.
“The Last Real Showgirl: My Sequined ‘70s Onstage” by Diane Christiansen – During the 1970s, showgirls represented the pinnacle of club and resort entertainment. In the modern age, very few shows left in Las Vegas, the resorts, or Paris feature showgirls at all. This memoir presents in her own words the life of Diane Christiansen, the last real showgirl.
As a teenager, desperate to get out of Illinois and into the glittering world of professional dance, Diane visits Montreal and discovers the electrifying world of French Cabaret. This kicks off a chain of events which finds her, before long, in Paris, dancing with a giant seahorse on her head at the world-renowned Lido de Paris. From opium dens in Paris to comedy clubs in the Bahamas, the arc of Diane’s dazzling career spans the globe, all before she is 28. This insider perspective on the industry presents the singular life of the last real showgirl, while also capturing the swansong of a thrilling era in stage entertainment.
Showgirls were powerful women in charge of their own careers — and well-paid, valued players in the flashy world of sequins, feathers, step-kicks, and lavish productions. Most were classically trained dancers who traveled the globe and planned their post-showgirl futures well in advance. They were nothing like the forlorn characters in recent movies.
In her candid, rollicking memoir, Diane Christiansen recounts her years as a showgirl — an iconic symbol of sexy, top-shelf entertainment rarely seen today. She offers an insider’s view to the alluring world of elaborate costumes, dance routines, the meaning of “Semi-Nude” and “Nude,” and life backstage, onstage and offstage. She delves into loves, losses, and her high-flying life.
Gospell is now playing at the Harlingen Community Theatre.
This year the Harlingen Community Theatre is celebrating its 50th Season and its current production is Godspell. Godspell, the beloved musical with music and new lyrics by Stephen Schwartz and book by John-Michael Tebelak, has charmed audiences since its debut in 1971 with its joyful energy, imaginative staging, and heartfelt message. Drawing inspiration from the Gospel of Matthew, the show reimagines biblical parables with a modern twist, blending pop-rock music, imaginative characters, and a vibrant, communal spirit. Its universal message of love, compassion, and forgiveness—values that transcend religion and remain deeply relevant today.
Locally, it opened on Thursday April 10 and features a talented cast that brings this classic musical to life. Over the years, Godspell has retained its appeal through its adaptability and emotional sincerity. Each production is encouraged to reflect the times, making it ever-fresh for new generations and this one is no exception. There are a couple of added scenes and dialogue to add relevance to modern times and the cast is encouraged to bring their own flavor to the scenes.
Stephen Rodriguez is a natural in the role of Jesus and David Laughlin’s portrayal of Judas is haunting and poignant. The show’s upbeat songs like ‘Day by Day’ and ‘Prepare Ye’ resonate across eras, reminding audiences of the enduring power of kindness and connection in an often divided world. Highlights include when Jesus defends the woman accused of adultery by challenging those accusing her that if any one them is without sin, to cast the first stone. He does this by playing a card game with them in which they are each given a card that has the word ‘SIN’ on it. Another is in Act Two, the emotional ‘Beautiful City’ by Jesus, which turns the tide of the show and sets the stage for the heartbreaking finale. The catchy musical numbers, humor, and humanity makes it a must-see production.
In today’s society—marked by social unrest, isolation, and a longing for meaning—Godspell serves as both a celebration and a call to action. Its themes of community, inclusion, and moral courage strike a powerful chord. Whether experienced as a nostalgic favorite or a first-time discovery, Godspell continues to inspire reflection and hope, proving that its message is not just timely, but timeless.
There are still two chances to catch this unforgettable production: Saturday and Sunday at 2:30p.m. General admission tickets are $25 for adults and $10 for children and are available online and in person an hour before showtime.
Cast: Jesus – Stephen Rodriguez John the Baptist/Judas – David Laughlin
Vendors and Customers: Xochitl Carmona, Alyssa Christiansen, David Dillon, Beth Ensign, Kathy Eunice, Justin Evans, Vicky Fultz, Amy Gonzalez, Ariel S. Gonzalez, Jorge Gonzalez, Stephanie Jackson, Trinity Minson, Carmen Montalvo, Ian Montalvo, Damian Moseley
Gospell stage.
Harlingen Community Theatre 1209 Fair Park Blvd Harlingen, TX
‘Oklahoma!’ is now playing at the Camille Playhouse in Brownsville. Photo: Sandra Cruz
Now playing at the Camille Playhouse in Brownsville is “Oklahoma!” – a timeless American musical that combines a compelling story with vibrant music, offering a celebration of frontier life and the complexities of love and community. It features a score by Rodgers and Hammerstein, including unforgettable songs like “Oh, What a Beautiful Mornin'” and “People Will Say We’re in Love.” Set in the early 1900s, it follows the lives of two rival groups—farmers and cowboys—in the Oklahoma Territory, with romance blossoming between the spirited Laurey Williams and the charming Curly McLain.
From the brilliant minds of Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein II, the Camille takes a trip to the turn of the 20th century with “Oklahoma!” With the rivalry between local farmers and cowboys, the setting of this show is full of conflict, but it’s also a love story of a farm girl and her choice between a cowboy and a farmhand. (Camille Playhouse, 2025)
Tickets are $25 for ages 3 and up and are available online or avoid the service charge and buy them at the box office. The lobby opens 30 minutes before the curtain and seating opens 30 minutes before curtain. Seating is on a first come, first serve basis.
Cast includes:
Brandon Binder – Curly Leah Hollingshead – Laurey Daniel Ramirez – Will Parker Grecia Ortiz – Ado Annie Carnes Valentina Capistran – Aunt Eller
Opening night on Friday was a wonderful start to the Camille’s presentation of this foot-stomping musical. The narrative strikes a balance between lighthearted moments and deeper themes and explores issues like jealousy, societal norms, and personal independence. The character-driven plot shines with its dynamic, well-developed roles, with excellent portrayals of Laurey by Leah Hollingshead and Curly by Brandon Binder. Their relationship stands at the forefront of the emotional core. A standout performance comes courtesy of Dean McElyea (Jud Fry) during the melancholy “Lonely Run” where Jud sings about his longing for a woman of his own and showcases the depth of the character. The lively choreography, paired with the energetic ensemble, brings the world of Oklahoma to life at the local level. Outstanding performances all around.
Despite some of its dated views on gender roles, “Oklahoma!” remains an important part of American musical theatre history. Its infectious energy, catchy tunes, and memorable characters continue to captivate audiences, making it a must-see for lovers of classic musicals. Do yourself a favor and stop by the Camille to experience this magical performance at its very best and discover the talent that Brownsville has to offer. Try and get the catchy “Oklahoma” tune out of your head. Congratulations to the cast and crew!
Now playing – February 1, 2, 7,8, and 9
Showtimes:
Friday 7p.m. Saturday 2p.m. and 7p.m. Sunday 2p.m.
Experience real love and connection with the return of Magik Theatre’s popular holiday season production of The Velveteen Rabbit. Photo: Bobby Foxx Photography, used with permission.
San Antonio, TX – Magik Theatre is delighted to reprise The Velveteen Rabbit, a timeless classic that captures the joy and warmth of the holidays. Recommended for audiences ages 5 and up, Magik’s adaptation of Margery Williams’ beloved children’s story follows the journey of a shy velveteen toy rabbit who longs to become real. Through his adventures with the Child, the Velveteen Rabbit learns about the transformative power of love and friendship. Running from November 23 through December 29, this heartwarming production is the perfect way to enjoy an enchanting holiday season, and Magik has plenty of related special events to make the experience all the more festive. (Magik Theatre, 2024)
Set in the cozy world of the Child, who receives the Velveteen Rabbit on Christmas morning, this touching tale follows the Child and their magical toys as they grapple with what it means to become ‘real.’ The Velveteen Rabbit, played by Ethan Hart, feels sad and forgotten as the Child (Maryann Valerio) marvels at fancier, more modern toys, but finds hope and friendship in the kind, wise Rocking Horse, played by Grace Lynn.
When a chance occurrence brings the Velveteen Rabbit back into the loving arms of the Child, the Velveteen Rabbit is delighted to become the Child’s favorite bedtime stuffy. But when the Child becomes ill, the Velveteen Rabbit must be separated from them, and this is where the Rabbit’s transformation begins.
To further the uplifting message and inspiring tale, Magik is pleased to present two special events: an opening day Party in the Park complete with live music, treats, and themed crafts, and its second annual Holiday Hop with pre-show holiday activities, photo opportunities, seasonal carols, and a gift drive. Little bookworms willing to scoot off Hemisfair campus, can catch a special story time at the Nowhere Bookshop for an engaging reading with the cast. All events offer magical ways to celebrate “the most wonderful time of the year!”
SPECIAL EVENTS AND PERFORMANCES Opening Party in the Park | Saturday, November 23, 4:30p.m., show at 6p.m. Start the merrymaking early with a FREE, family-friendly pre-show soiree on opening night. Kids can make their own rabbit with a special craft activity, and party goers can nibble on custom rabbit shaped cookies as they dance to the tunes of a live DJ. Those who stick around after Magik’s treasured holiday production of The Velveteen Rabbit can enjoy a cupcake to cap off a truly enchanting evening.
Story Time with the Cast of The Velveteen Rabbit | Tuesday, November 26, 4:30p.m. Little literature lovers can meet the cast of Magik’s The Velveteen Rabbit at this special story time reading of the classic tale. The event takes place at best-selling author Jenny Lawson’s Nowhere Bookshop, located at 5154 Broadway, San Antonio, TX 78209.
Magik’s Annual Holiday Hop!| Saturday, December 14, 12:30p.m., show at 2p.m. Join Magik for a heartwarming celebration that captures the true essence of the holiday season – Magik’s Second Annual Holiday Hop! Family-friendly, festive activities include writing letters to Santa, fun crafts, photo opportunities, carolers, and more. Embrace the spirit of giving by donating new toys, stuffed animals, books, or girls’ makeup to the toy drive benefiting local children’s cancer foundation Hope Hits Harder. After the activities, continue making holiday memories by enjoying a performance of The Velveteen Rabbit and meeting the cast. Capacity is limited so hop on these tickets now by visiting Magik Theatre online.
Special Performances: Sensory-Friendly Performance | Saturday, November 30 at 10a.m. Audience members on the autism spectrum and those with sensory sensitivities can take in a special performance of The Velveteen Rabbit designed just for them. Kids and adults are free to be themselves in this relaxed, judgment-free theatre experience that is a perfect introduction to attending a performance.
Pay What You Wish Performance | Sunday, December 1 at 3p.m. As part of Magik Theatre’s mission to make theatre accessible to everyone, the organization holds one donation-based performance. Tickets are only available at the door on December 1st.
ASL Interpreted Performance | Saturday, December 7 at 2p.m. Patrons who communicate with ASL can attend this performance featuring Robert Cardoza, the San Antonio theatre community’s primary American Sign Language interpreter.
Educator Appreciation Day | Sunday, December 8, 2024 at 3p.m. Educators and school faculty are eligible for one free ticket to this performance with proof of I.D. Additional tickets are available to purchase for these performances at a discount of 20% off the regular ticket prices.
Military & First Responders Appreciation Day | Saturday, December 21, 2024 at 2p.m. (pre-show music at 1:30p.m.) Service members with a valid military ID can purchase discounted $18 tickets and enjoy a special performance by the Honey Bs, an Andrews Sisters-style singing trio.
Purchase season subscriptions, flex passes, and single tickets online, via phone (210) 227-2751, and in person at Magik Theatre’s Box Office (420 S Alamo, 78205). Box Office hours are Monday-Friday, 9a.m. – 5p.m. and Saturdays, 12p.m. – 4p.m. If a child under 2 uses a seat, even a car or booster seat, the patron must pay for a general admission ticket. Group rates are available for parties of ten or more people. For questions and further inquiries, contact Magik Theatre.
MAGIK THEATRE A professional theatre for young audiences established in 1994, Magik Theatre’s mission is to create theatrical experiences that ignite imagination, spark curiosity, inspire empathy, and foster a lifetime love of learning in young people.
Catch the world premiere of Lyric & the Keys, a new musical about unlocking your full potential. Photo: Magik Theatre, used with permission.
San Antonio, TX –What better way to celebrate the unique vision the Magik Theatre brings to San Antonio’s performing arts community than by kicking off its latest season with a world premiere of an original musical? Lyric and the Keys will premiere on September 28 and will run until October 13. (Magik Theatre, 2024)
Lyric and the Keys tells the story of Lyric, a second-grader struggling to read and too intimidated to ask her new teacher for help. With the support of the school janitor, Mr. Hartley, and his homemade junk robot, Lyric finds the courage she needs to overcome her literacy challenges. With a childhood-centered production, catchy melodies, and a positive message celebrating diverse learning journeys, Lyric and the Keys is a perfect showcase for Magik’s mission to provide high-quality theatre for young audiences.
Lyric’s story is inspired by the play’s author, Roxanne Schroeder-Arce, now the associate dean of the University of Texas College of Fine Arts’ teacher preparation program. Growing up in a rural trailer park with a single mother whose formal education stopped at eighth grade, Schroeder-Arce struggled to find her place at school.
“My teacher was nothing like my mom, and while she was nice to me, I was deeply intimidated by what I perceived as her perfection and couldn’t learn from her. Lucky for me, the janitor at my school (who talked and dressed more like my family members) saw me struggling to read and stepped in to help. Lyric and the Keys is about how anyone can be a student and a teacher to anyone else.” – Roxanne Schroeder-Arce
Music is a big part of Lyric and the Keys—Lyric’s mom Melody expresses herself through singing and playing her guitar. Renowned singer/songwriter Jenn Hartmann Luck proved to be an ideal collaborator in developing the score and musical numbers. Like Melody, Luck writes her music on guitar and, along with arranger Ezri Killeen, decided that the best way to honor Lyric and Melody’s musical bond was through a single acoustic guitar played live on stage.
“What I really love about the evolution of this musical is that while it is inspired by Roxanne’s life, Lyric is her own little girl. She is so smart, and she comes from a difficult situation, and she finds a way to overcome it with the support of the adults in her life. Everyone who comes to see Lyric and the Keys will leave feeling inspired and challenged.” – Jenn Hartmann Luck
Hannah Rodriguez plays Lyric and Amy Bouquet plays Mr. Hartley’s junk robot, CC the Confidence Cat. Benjamin Bazán portrays Mr. Hartley, Clarissa Ramos is the teacher Miss Reed, and Tory Ross plays Lyric’s mom Melody. The crew includes Director Anthony Runfola, Playwright Roxanne Schroeder-Arce, Composer and Lyricist Jenn Hartmann Luck, Set Design by Christopher Boneta, Lighting Design by Sarah Elliot, Costume Design by David Arevalo, Zach Walsh as Sound Designer, Kristi Smith as Music Director, Tanesha Payne as Choreographer, Arrangements and Music Assistant, Ezri Killeen. Lyric & The Keys is presented by Show Sponsor H-E-B.
As with all Magik productions, the organization offers multiple ways for the community to engage with Lyric and the Keys, from a party in the park on opening day to performances geared towards special needs audiences.
SPECIAL EVENTS AND PERFORMANCES
Opening Party in the Park | Saturday, September 28, 4:30p.m., show at 6p.m. Enjoy an evening of family fun in Hemisfair Park, celebrating the world premiere of Lyric and the Keys. Live music, treats, and a kid-friendly guitar-themed craft help kick off Magik’s new season.
Pay What You Wish Performance | Sunday, September 29, 3p.m. As part of Magik Theatre’s mission to make theatre accessible to everyone, the organization holds one donation-based performance. Tickets are only available at the door on September 29.
Sensory-Friendly Performance | Saturday, October 5, 10a.m. Audience members on the autism spectrum and those with sensory issues can take in a special performance of Lyric and the Keys designed just for them. Kids and adults are free to be themselves in this relaxed, judgment-free theatre experience.
American Sign Language Interpreted Performance | Saturday, October 5, 2p.m. Patrons who communicate with ASL can attend this performance featuring Robert Cardoza, the San Antonio theatre community’s primary American Sign Language interpreter.
Educator Appreciation Performance | Sunday, October 6, 3p.m. Educators and school faculty are eligible for one free ticket to this performance with proof of I.D. Additional tickets are available to purchase for these performances at a discount of 20% off the regular ticket prices.
Military Appreciation Day | Saturday, October 12, 2p.m. Service members with a valid military ID can purchase discounted $18 tickets. All audience members can arrive early to catch pre-show entertainment from The HoneyBs, a trio whose three-part harmonies recall the Andrew Sisters’ WWII swing.
SEASON SUBSCRIPTION PRICING Four Show Subscription $70 per person (Savings of 30% off single ticket prices) Three Show Subscription $55.50 per person (Savings of 26% off single ticket prices) Season ticket holders will also have access to sneak peek performances, special VIP invitations and other surprises throughout the season. No fees to exchange unexpired tickets to another date. Expires June 1, 2025.
FLEX PASS PRICING – Ten Flex Passes $190 A Flex Pass is a package of 10 tickets that can be used for any production at Magik Theatre. Flex passes can be used any way patrons wish throughout the season. Use them one or two at a time, or all together. No fees to exchange unexpired tickets to another date. Expires June 1, 2025.
SINGLE TICKETS • $25 for adults • $20 for children (ages 3-17), Military, Seniors, Educators & Students • Children under 2 years old are free.
Purchase season subscriptions, flex passes, and single tickets online, via phone (210) 227-2751, and in person at Magik Theatre’s Box Office (420 S Alamo, 78205). Box Office hours are Monday-Friday, 9a.m. – 5p.m.
If a child under 2 uses a seat, even a car or booster seat, the patron must pay for a general admission ticket. Group rates are available for parties of ten or more people. For questions and further inquiries, contact the Magik Theatre.
‘The BFG’ serves as the season closer and kick off to the Magik Theatre’s 30th anniversary year. Photo: Magik Theatre, used with permission.
Get carried away by The BFG, Magik Theatre’s new adaptation of the beloved novel by Roald Dahl. The hilarious play about a 24-foot-tall Big Friendly Giant and his young friend Sophie both closes out Magik’s 2023-24 season and ignites the theatre’s 30th birthday year, complete with a truly gigantic opening night celebration. (Magik Theatre, 2024)
When young orphan Sophie accidentally encounters a giant, she is understandably frightened for her life. Thankfully the giant in question happens to be the BFG – the Big Friendly Giant – who doesn’t eat humans and instead spends his time catching dreams in Dream Country in order to give the good ones to children and destroy the nightmares. But the BFG has a problem, his five giant neighbors, who bully him when not stealing humans to eat, decide to head to England for a dinner of British children. With Sophie’s help, the BFG goes on an incredible journey to Buckingham Palace and convinces the Queen to save England from these absolutely unfriendly giants. Adapted by David Wood, Magik Theatre’s production of ‘The BFG’ is made possible in part by a generous grant from the Russell Hill Rogers Fund for the Arts.
The Big Friendly Giant is brought to life by Mason Anthony Ortiz who is joined by his little friend, Clarissa Cortez as Sophie. The rest of the cast includes Trisch Moy, Queen of Sweden, Amy Bouquet, Queen of England, Michael Robets as Mr. Tibbs, Stephanie Higley as Head of the Air Force, Katrin Blucker Ludwig as Head of the Army and Lauren Campion as Swing.
For 30 years, Magik Theatre has been taking its audiences on whiz banging adventures to the BFG’s Dream Country, to jungles, to pirate ships, and so much more. Building off of founder Richard Rosen’s commitment to creating and producing theatre that captivates young audiences, Magik has staged nearly 300 productions, many adapted from beloved classic and contemporary children’s stories. From modest beginnings as a family-run theatre troupe in 1994, Magik quickly became a major player in San Antonio’s performing arts scene, serving some 44,000 patrons annually from their home in iconic Hemisfair. Magik reaches beyond the traditional stage too, creating educational guides for field trip performances, inspiring through a perennially popular summer camp, and empowering the youth of the Cindi Taylor Krier Juvenile Correctional and Treatment Facility with opportunities for creative self-expression.
Magik’s devoted fans know that each play run comes with a slew of special events, including whimsical opening day parties. The 30th birthday party celebration and Opening Night Party in the Park took place last Saturday, but if you missed it, there are still plenty of other events and performances scheduled.
SPECIAL EVENTS AND PERFORMANCES Educator Appreciation Performance | Sunday May 12, 3p.m. Educators and school faculty are eligible for one free ticket to this performance with proof of I.D. Additional tickets are available to purchase for these performances at a discount of 50% off the regular ticket prices with promo code THANKYOU50.
Sensory-Friendly Performance | Saturday May 18, 10a.m. Audience members on the autism spectrum and those with sensory issues can take in a special performance of The BFG designed just for them. Kids and adults are free to be themselves in this relaxed, judgment-free theatre experience.
Pay What You Wish Performance | Sunday, May 26, 3p.m. As part of Magik Theatre’s mission to make theatre accessible to everyone, the organization holds one donation-based performance. Tickets are only available at the door on Sunday, May 26.
American Sign Language Interpreted Performance | Saturday, May 25, 2p.m. Patrons who communicate with ASL can attend this performance featuring Robert Cardoza, the San Antonio theatre community’s primary American Sign Language interpreter.
TICKET OPTIONS BFG SINGLE TICKETS ● $25 for adults ● $20 for children (ages 3-17), Military, Seniors, Educators & Students
NEW 2024-2025 SEASON SUBSCRIPTIONS Four Show Subscription $70 per person (Savings of 30% off single ticket prices)Three Show Subscription $55.50 per person (Savings of 26% off single ticket prices
Magik Theatre creates theatrical experiences that ignite imagination, spark curiosity, inspire empathy, and foster a lifetime love of learning in young people.
‘The King and I’ is one of the productions coming to the Majestic Theatre as part of the 2017-2018 Broadway in San Antonio season. Photo by Gayle McCracken, used with permission.
North Park Lexus Broadway in San Antonio recently announced the line up for next season and theater fans are in for another unforgettable season of fabulous shows. The 2017-2018 season at the Majestic Theatre will include eight productions including four market debuts, Tony Award winning shows, family classics and returning favorites. It was also announced that the national tour of ‘Hamilton’ will play the Majestic Theatre as part of the 2018-2019 season. Season subscribers can choose a six show package starting at $211 or seven show package including ‘The Book of Mormon’ starting at $250. The benefits of being a season subscriber include avoiding possible ticket price increases closer to the show, priority ticket opportunities, lost ticket replacement and seat exchange privileges. More information is available online or by calling Broadway in San Antonio at 800-215-SHOW (7469) from 9a.m. to 5p.m. Monday through Friday. (North Park Lexus Broadway in San Antonio, 2017)
In 2017 the season begins with ‘The Bodyguard’ from September 19 through September 24, ‘The King and I’ from October 17 through October 22 and Irving Berlin’s ‘White Christmas’ from December 12 through December 17. ‘The Bodyguard’ is based on the hit film and tells the story of former Secret Service agent turned bodyguard, Frank Farmer, who is hired to protect superstar Rachel Marron from an unknown stalker. It includes the hit songs “Saving All My Love,” “I Have Nothing” and the iconic “I Will Always Love You.” ‘The King and I’ is set in 1860s Bangkok and is the story of the unconventional and tempestuous relationship that develops between the King of Siam and Anna Leonowens, a British schoolteacher who is hired to tutor his many wives and children. Irving Berlin’s ‘White Christmas’ is based on the 1954 movie starring Bing Crosby, Danny Kaye, Rosemary Clooney and Vera-Ellen. It is the story of a song and dance team who put on a show at a Vermont Inn and end up falling for a stunning sister act. Hit songs include “Sisters,” “Happy Holiday” and “The Best Things Happen While You’re Dancing.”
In 2018 the season continues with season option Rodgers + Hammerstein’s ‘Cinderella’ from January 12 through January 14, ‘The Color Purple’ from February 6 through February 11, ‘On Your Feet’ from March 13 through March 18, ‘The Book of Mormon’ from May 1 through May 6 and ‘An American In Paris’ from June 12 through June 17. Rodgers + Hammerstein’s ‘Cinderella’ is the Tony Award winning musical that has delighted audiences with its contemporary take on the classic fairy tale. It includes the beloved songs “In My Own Little Corner” and “Ten Minutes.” ‘The Color Purple’ won the Tony Award for Best Musical Revival and is about a young woman’s journey to love and triumph in the American South. ‘On Your Feet’ tells the story of Emilio and Gloria Estefan’s humble beginnings in Cuba and how they came to America and became a crossover success in the pop music world. ‘The Book of Mormon’ is the outrageous musical comedy that follows the misadventures of a mismatched pair of missionaries who are sent halfway around the world to share the good news. The season ends with ‘An American In Paris,’ the new hit musical about an American soldier, a mysterious French girl and an indomitable European city all longing for a new beginning after the war.
Majestic Theatre
224 E Houston St
San Antonio, TX 78205
(210) 226-5700
‘Pippin’ opens this Friday February 10 at the Woodlawn Theatre. Photo courtesy of Woodlawn Theatre, used with permission.
This month the Woodlawn Theatre will open its 2017 season and first on the list is the local production of the Tony Award-winning ‘Pippin’. This musical journey of a young prince in search of fulfillment opens Friday February 10 and runs through Sunday March 12. It is sponsored by KONO 101.1 and has a show rating of PG-13 for suggestive dance style and some adult language. Show times are every Friday and Saturday at 7:30p.m. and Sunday at 3p.m. Tickets are available online or by calling the box office at 210-267-8388. Prices are $18 for students and children, $24 for seniors and military and $29 for adults and all tickets are subject to a $3 service fee. Groups of ten or more receive a 20% discount. (Woodlawn Theatre, 2017)
‘Pippin’ uses a mysterious performance troupe led by a Leading Player to tell the story of Pippin, a young prince who is searching for meaning and significance to his life. To prove his loyalty to his father, he goes to war but when the Leading Player convinces him to fight tyranny, Pippin kills Charles and takes over the throne. After he realizes his mistake he convinces the Leading Player to bring his father back to life. Pippin then falls in love with a widow with a young son and must decide whether to settle down or continue to make magic with the dazzling troupe of performers. The show is directed by Katie Benson with musical direction by Josh Pepper and choreography by Alonzo Corona. Even though the characters of Pippin and his father Charlemagne are real life people from the Middle Ages this particular show makes no reference to true historical facts. Rather, it explores the glories of war, the temptations of love and the intrigues of political power before unveiling that happiness lies not in the extraordinary but in the ordinary moments of everyday life. With Trevor Chauvin as Pippin and Gianna Rodriguez as the Leading Player the show features styled dancing, high-flying acrobatics, wondrous music and soaring songs including the popular “Magic To Do.”
‘All is Calm: The Christmas Truce of 1914’ opens this Friday December 2 at The Playhouse San Antonio. Photo by Daniel D Baumer, used with permission.
Opening this Friday December 2 at The Playhouse San Antonio is ‘All is Calm: The Christmas Truce of 1914.’ It will run until Sunday December 18 in the Russell Hill Rogers Theatre. George Green and Bill Gundry co-direct with musical direction by Nicholas Ponting. Show times are Thursday, Friday and Saturday at 8p.m. and Sundays at 3p.m. Tickets may be purchased online or by calling the box office at (210) 733-7258. Prices are $30 for general adult, $23 for military with valid ID, $23 for seniors aged 60 and up, $15 for students with valid ID and $12 for children aged 12 and under. Group rates are available for groups of ten or more. (The Playhouse San Antonio, 2016)
‘All is Calm: The Christmas Truce of 1914’ by Peter Rothstein has musical arrangements by Erick Lichte and Timothy C Takach. It is set in 1914, at the Western Front, where out of the violence comes a silence, then a song. When a German soldier steps into No Man’s Land singing “Stille Nacht” it brings about a night of camaraderie, music and peace. A remarkable true experience, it is told in the words and songs of the men who lived it. This acapella musical highlights the beauty and power of the human spirit during the darkest of days. On December 17 there will be a special double feature of ‘All is Calm’ and ‘A Marcsmen Christmas.’ The performances start at 7p.m. and purchasing a ticket to this night allows for entrance to both performances.
The Playhouse San Antonio
800 West Ashby Place
San Antonio, TX 78212
(210) 733-7258
Tickets for the 20th Anniversary Tour of ‘RENT’ go on sale Friday November 11, 2016. Photo: google
The 20th anniversary tour of ‘RENT’ will be stopping in San Antonio in March 2017. It will be playing at the Majestic Theatre for five performances only from Friday March 3 through Sunday March 5, 2017. Single tickets go on sale this Friday November 11 and may be purchased at the Majestic Theatre box office, online, through Ticketmaster online or by calling 1-800-745-3000. Prices begin at $35 and orders for groups of ten or more can be made by calling (210) 226-5967. Single ticket orders must be done in person at the box office. Box office hours are 10a.m. to 5p.m. Monday through Friday and Saturday hours vary. Performances are 7:30p.m. on Friday, 2p.m. and 8p.m. on Saturday and 2p.m. and 7:30p.m. on Sunday. (North Park Lexus Broadway in San Antonio, 2016)
‘RENT’ is an original rock musical by Jonathan Larson. It premiered on Broadway in 1996 and forever changed the landscape of American theater. Twenty years later audiences around the world still relate to its message and now this theater masterpiece returns to the stage. The winner of the 1996 Tony Award for Best Musical, 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.
Majestic Theatre
224 E Houston St
San Antonio, Tx 78205
(210) 226-5700
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