Pages

Showing posts with label Drury Lane Theatre. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Drury Lane Theatre. Show all posts

Friday, September 9, 2016

REVIEW: Gritty Urban Charm And Powerhouse Vocals Make Smokey Joe’s Cafe Shine


Drury Lane Theatre Presents
Smokey Joe’s Cafe
Directed and Choreographed by Tony Award Nominee Marcia Milgrom Dodge

September 1 – October 23, 2016


Recommended for ages 5 and up. 



 All Photos by Brett Beiner
Justin KeyesSean BlakeWill Skrip, Tyrone Robinson

We're under the el tracks and over the moon about Drury Lane's latest, Smokey Joe’s Cafe. This musical is a true crowd pleaser that had the audience woo hooing and clapping along. The tunes are familiar, early era rock and roll classics like "Yakety Yak," "Jailhouse Rock," and "Stand By Me" and the complete lack of dialogue makes for a fast paced show with more of a concert or musical review vibe. This show is a stellar pick for all ages and a great multigenerational choice. Highly recommended.

The original Maxwell Street Market was always one of our favorite Chi, IL places to take visiting friends and relatives. It captures the unique spirit of Chicago so much better than most of the tourist hot spots. We're excited Drury Lane has chosen this spot for the setting of this production. The excellent set design does a phenomenal job depicting the essence of the Maxwell Street of old, from the rusting el train trusses to the street corner performers, homeless hovels, and stalls hawking wares.

DONICA LYNN (Willie Mae)

Smokey Joe’s Cafe includes top talent with powerhouse vocals, serious dance moves, and creative character depictions. We were completely blown away by the vocal chops and charm of DONICA LYNN (Willie Mae). Statuesque MEGHAN MURPHY (Ruth) also had an impressive vocal range and commanding presence. 

MEGHAN MURPHY (Ruth)

There's not a weak link in the bunch. We were thoroughly impressed and entertained by all. Kudos to Justin KeyesCarrie Abernathy, Sean BlakeDonica LynnMeghan MurphyAmy OrmanTyrone RobinsonChris Sams and Will Skrip for an impressive performance.

The cast of Smokey Joe’s Cafe includes Will Skrip, Amy OrmanJustin KeyesDonica LynnSean BlakeMeghan MurphyChris Sams, Carrie Abernathy, Tyrone Robinson


Chi, IL LIVE Shows On Our Radar:

Drury Lane Theatre presents Smokey Joe’s Cafe, the musical revue celebrating the renowned musical duo Jerry Leiber and Mike StollerSmokey Joe’s Cafe is directed and choreographed by internationally-acclaimed director Marcia Milgrom Dodge and runs September 1 – October 23, 2016 at Drury Lane Theatre, 100 Drury Lane in Oakbrook Terrace. 

  • In a nod to the Windy City, Drury Lane’s production of Smokey Joe’s Cafe takes place in Chicago’s historic Maxwell Street Market. The 100-year-old market still brings Chicagoans from all walks of life together every Sunday. 
The longest running musical revue in Broadway history, Smokey Joe's Cafe is making its Drury Lane debut this season. Showcasing 39 pop standards, including rock’n’roll and blues anthems written by legendary duo Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller, Smokey Joe's Cafe is guaranteed to keep you humming old favorites all night long. Smokey Joe's Cafe features jukebox hits such as "Yakety Yak," "Jailhouse Rock," and "Stand By Me," and is recommended for ages 5 and up. Smokey Joe’s Cafe premiered in 1995 and received seven Tony Award nominations, including Best Musical, as well as a Grammy Award for Best Musical Show Album. 

  • Holding the record as longest-running musical revue in Broadway history, Smokey Joe’s Cafe opened on Broadway in 1995 and played 2,036 performances before closing in 2000.

Sean BlakeJustin KeyesChris Sams, Tyrone Robinson

Schedule: Wednesdays: 1:30 p.m.
Thursdays: 1:30 p.m. and 8:00 p.m.
Fridays: 8:00 p.m.
Saturdays: 5:00 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. 
Sundays: 2:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m.

Location: Drury Lane Theatre at 100 Drury Lane in Oakbrook Terrace

Tickets: Previews: $43 - $58
Single Tickets: $45 - $60
Wednesday and Thursday matinees are priced at $45, Thursday and Sunday evenings at $55, and Friday, Saturday and Sunday matinee performances at $60
Student group tickets start at $30 
Senior Citizens start at $40 for matinees 
Dinner and show packages available 

Box Office: 100 Drury Lane in Oakbrook Terrace
630.530.0111, TicketMaster at 800.745.3000

  • In 2002, Smokey Joe’s Cafe was produced as a television special with seven of the show’s original cast members returning to reprise their roles. 
The cast of Smokey Joe’s Cafe includes Justin KeyesCarrie Abernathy, Sean BlakeDonica LynnMeghan MurphyAmy OrmanTyrone RobinsonChris Sams and Will Skrip.


The creative team for Smokey Joe’s Cafe includes Kevin Depinet (Scenic Design), Sully Ratke (Costume Design), Paul Miller (Lighting Design) and Ryan Hickey (Sound Design). Michael Baxter is the Associate Director/Choreographer and Lucia Lombardi is the Production Stage Manager.

  • In 2010, Director and Choreographer Marcia Milgrom Dodge was nominated for a Tony Award for Best Direction of a Musical and a Drama Desk Award nomination for Outstanding Director of a Musical and Outstanding Choreography for Ragtime. The show also received both a Tony Award nomination and a Drama Desk Award nomination for Best Revival of a Musical. 
Justin KeyesChris Sams, Tyrone Robinson, Sean Blake

About the Artists
MARCIA MILGROM DODGE (Director & Choreographer) Her celebrated work as a director and choreographer has been seen throughout the United States, Canada, Great Britain, South Korea, Denmark and the Middle East.  Broadway:  Ragtime (2010 Tony Award nomination for Best Director of a Musical.) New York: Venus Flytrap (Active Theater), Cookin’ (Minetta Lane), Radio Gals (Houseman), Maltby & Shire’s Closer Than Ever (original production) and William Finn's Romance In Hard Times (The Public). National Tours: Ragtime (Phoenix Entertainment), Seussical and Curious George (Theatreworks USA.) Regional: Pioneer Theatre, The Muny, Ford’s Theatre, The Kennedy Center, Maltz Jupiter Theatre, Cincinnati Playhouse, Center Stage, Denver Center, Pittsburgh Public, St. Louis Rep, Bay Street Theatre, Music Circus, Goodman Theatre, Lyric Stage, Goodspeed, Huntington Theatre, Flat Rock Playhouse, Arena Stage. Opera: Glimmerglass Festival, 92nd Street Y.  Abroad: The Nanta Theatre (Seoul, S. Korea); Fredericia Theater (Denmark); Royal Opera House (Muskat, Oman) and the Wintergardens Theatre (Blackpool, England). Exciting collaborations with Ahrens & Flaherty & Terrence McNally; Julie Andrews; Stephen Sondheim & George Furth; Rupert Holmes; Robert Falls & John Logan; Frank Wildhorn & Jack Murphy. Television: Sesame Street; AMC’S Remember Wenn Awards: Her work has won the Helen Hayes, Carbonell, Los Angeles Drama Critics, Backstage Garland, Dora Mavor, Outer Critics Circle and Daytime Emmy Awards and she has been nominated for the Drama Desk, Astaire, Drama League, Barrymore and Edgar.  Marcia is also a teacher, a wife, a mother, a proud executive board member of the Stage Directors & Choreographers Society and a published and produced playwright.

JUSTIN KEYES (Little Walter) Theatre – Broadway: How To Succeed..., The Apple Tree, Mary Poppins. Tour: The 25th Annual Putman County Spelling Bee; Regional: Walnut Street Theatre, Riverside Theatre, The Guthrie, Two River Theatre Company, San Francisco Symphony, Dallas Theatre Center, Kansas City Starlight, Great Lakes Theatre Festival, MUNY, Pittsburgh CLO. Television – Power; I Love You, But I Lied; Gossip Girl. Education – University of Michigan.

CARRIE ABERNATHY (Pearl)

CARRIE ABERNATHY (Pearl) is making her debut at Drury Lane. Carrie has appeared in Queenie Pie (Chicago Opera Theatre); The Color Purple (Mercury Theatre); My Heart is Crying: The Jackie Wilson Story, and Dionne #2 in A Tribute to Dionne Warwick (Black Ensemble Theatre). Carrie received her BA from Columbia College in music composition. Carrie is a proud member of AEA. 

SEAN BLAKE (Sonny) returns to Drury Lane Oakbrook where he was last seen as Terpiscore, Hermes, and Cupid in Xanadu. Broadway/National Tours: Showboat 1st National (Dance Captain/Swing), Showboat Australia (Assoc. Choreographer). Regional Credits: Animal Crackers (Baltimore Centerstage), The Story, Purlie, Ain’t Misbehavin, The Rose Tattoo, Bounce (The Goodman Theatre); Grey Gardens, Everything's Ducky, A Civil War Christmas (Northlight Theatre); Porgy and Bess (Sportin’ Life; Jeff Nomination Best Supporting Actor); and Raisin (The Court Theatre); Carousel (The Court Theatre and Long Wharf Theatre); Birdie Blue (Seattle Rep. Theatre); and Hot Mikado (The Fulton Opera) to name a few. Sean can be heard on the original cast recording of Stephen Sondheim and Hal Prince’s Bounce. Sean just completed a very successful run of Why Not Me? A Sammy Davis Jr. Story in Chicago at the Fleetwood Jourdain Theatre, where he received a Black Theatre Alliance Award nomination for Best Actor in a Play. He is a three-time Jeff Award nominee and two-time Black Theatre Alliance Award nominee in Chicago. Sean is also a member of Actors’ Equity. 

DONICA LYNN (Willie Mae) returns to Drury Lane (Hairspray, Aida, Thoroughly Modern Millie)   THEATRE: Victory Gardens (Confessions of a P.I.M.P. w/Tony Nominee André de Shields) Porchlight Music Theater (Dreamgirls BTAA & Time Out Chicago Magazine nominee Best Actress, Chicago Sings- Disney, Motown & Beatles) Off the Porch (Gatecrashers) Chicago Theatre Company (Train Is Comin)  Mercury Theater (Color Purple, Barnum) About Face Theater (When Last We Flew) Chicago Opera Theater (Queenie Pie) Barn Theatre-MI (Hair) Goodman Theatre (Lady In Denmark, Crowns-us, Ain’t Misbehavin-us) Chicago Dramatist (Vee Jay Records) Marriott Lincolnshire (Once on This Island, Suessical) Northlight (Saturday Night/Sunday Morning) Theatre at the Center-IND (Footloose, Winnie the Pooh Christmas) Paramount (Hair, Broadway Holidays) Court Theatre (Caroline or Change) Timeline (Fiorello, Step Into Time 1893 & 1939) Congo Square (Black Nativity, Sanctified) ETA Creative Arts (This Far By Faith- BTAA nom, Runaway Home-AAAA nom,  Don’t Get Around Much Anymore, Good Black) Bailiwick Rep (Georgia Tom) Fleetwood Jourdain (Black Nativity) FILM/TELEVISION: (Chicago Fire NBC Season 4:1- Let It Burn)  VOCAL PERFORMANCE: Cabernet Cabaret (Arranmore Arts) Chicago Humanities Festival, Sarah Siddons Foundation. RECORDINGS: Ramsey Lewis (Dance of the Soul CD) Two #1 solo dance club singles UK (Shout, Keep Rockin) Justin Roberts (Lullaby CD) Calvin Bridges (So Easy To Love CD) Cory Goodrich (W.O.M.A.N. ep) Female Lead Vocalist Ascendant Music Inc (Illuminate: Blue, Green) BACKGROUNDS:  Rahsaan Patterson, Natalie Cole, New Kids on the Block, Gladys Knight, Stevie Wonder ALUMNA: Walt Whitman & the Soul Children of Chicago, All-City Youth Choir. 3x brain tumor (cancer) survivor, proud AEA & AGMA member represented by Stewart Talent. Winner- Perseverance Award from Bibo (Beauty In Beauty Out) C.H.A.M.P. Community Project. 

MEGHAN MURPHY (Ruth) is back after making her Drury Lane debut as Airman Fillmore in the Pre-Broadway World Premiere of Hazel The Musical: A Musical Maid in America last spring. Previous credits include: City of Angels (Jeff nomination for Oolie/Donna, Marriott Theater), Tommy (Acid Queen, Paramount Theater), Rent (Joanne, Paramount Theater), American Mixtape (The Second City), 50 Shades! The Musical (Pam, World Premiere Original Cast, NYC, Chicago, Canada), The First Wives Club (World Premiere, Broadway in Chicago), and countless concerts throughout Chicago, New York, LA and Canada. You also may have seen her in her one-woman show, The Big Red Show, most recently running at the Uptown Underground, in Drury Lane’s own cabaret series Leading Ladies, or her original holiday show Big Red & The Boys with About Face Theater at Theater Wit. Meghan is the lead singer of her soul/blues band Everybody Says Yes. 



AMY ORMAN (Annette, Dance Captain)

AMY ORMAN (Annette, Dance Captain) returns to the Drury Lane stage! Chicago theatre: White ChristmasSpelling BeeSunset BoulevardHairspray, A Christmas Carol at Drury Lane Oakbrook; The Who's Tommy, 42nd Street, Annie at The Paramount; 42nd Street, Guys and Dolls, Dirty Rotten Scoundrels at Theatre at the Center; Merrily We Roll Along at The Music Theatre Company. TV: Betrayal on ABC. Love and special thanks to Michael.

TYRONE L. ROBINSON (Doc) is making his Drury Lane debut. Broadway Tours: The Book of Mormon and Disney’s The Lion King. Favorite regional credits: Ragtime (Arvada Center – Denver Henry Award nominee, Best Actor in a Musical); Big River (Goodspeed Opera House); Katonga (Busch Entertainment); Oedipus Plays (The Shakespeare Theatre, D.C.); and Disney’s Aida (Ogunquit Playhouse). Also an ASCAP award-winning composer and comedy writer, Tyrone wrote music and lyrics for the musical Show Way, which ran to critical acclaim at The Vital Theatre in New York and was nominated for an Off-Broadway Alliance Award (Best Family Musical). He also worked with writing teams at The Daily Show and The Colbert Report

CHRIS SAMS (Cornelius) Favorite National Touring productions include: Ragtime (Coalhouse Walker Jr.), Rock of Ages (Mayor/Ja’Keith), Fifty Shades: Musical Parody (Taylor), and Will Rogers’ Follies (Soloist / Wrangler). Chris received his Bachelor's degree in Speech Communication from West Texas A&M University and the bulk of his training from participation in competitive forensics. 

WILL SKRIP (Rod) returns to Drury Lane! Recent credits include West Side Story (Tony) at Paramount Theatre, Murder Ballad (Tom) at Cardinal Stage Company, The Little Mermaid (Prince Eric) at Chicago Shakespeare Theatre, in addition to appearances here at Drury Lane, Lyric Opera of Chicago, the Marriott, and FWD Theatre Project. Proud Northwestern Alum. Next up: The Little Mermaid and Sweeney Todd at the Paramount. 

2016 – 2017 Season and Subscription Information
The remainder of Drury Lane's 2016 - 2017 season includes the feel-good Gershwin musical Crazy For You, November 3, 2016 - January 8, 2017 and a revised version of Saturday Night Fever, based on the popular ‘70s film with music by The Bee Gees, January 19, 2017 - March 19, 2017.

Subscriptions for the 2016 - 2017 Season are priced from $144.60 to $175.80.  Subscribers receive special offers on dining, flexible ticket exchanges and early notification and priority seating for added events and concerts. For more information, visit DruryLaneTheatre.com.


Justin KeyesChris Sams, Tyrone Robinson, Will Skrip, Sean Blake

About Drury Lane Theatre 
Under the leadership of President Kyle DeSantis and Artistic Director William Osetek, Drury Lane Theatre is a major force in the Chicagoland theatre scene, presenting world-class productions in collaboration with some of the nation’s leading actors, artists, writers and directors. Over the past 30 years, Drury Lane has staged more than 2,000 productions and has been nominated for more than 350 Joseph Jefferson Awards. Drury Lane is committed to breathing new life into beloved classics and introducing audiences to exciting new works. 

Throughout its 30-year history, Drury Lane has employed more than 7,500 actors and 10,000 musicians, designers and crewmembers to entertain upwards of nine million audience members. Originally founded by Anthony DeSantis, Drury Lane Theatre remains a family-run organization known for producing breathtaking Broadway classics, top-rated musicals, bold new works, hilarious comedies and unforgettable concert events. 



    Thursday, September 8, 2016

    OPENING: Smokey Joe’s Cafe at Drury Lane

    Chi, IL LIVE Shows On Our Radar:

    Drury Lane Theatre Presents
    Smokey Joe’s Cafe
    Directed and Choreographed by Tony Award Nominee Marcia Milgrom Dodge

    September 1 – October 23, 2016



    • In a nod to the Windy City, Drury Lane’s production of Smokey Joe’s Cafe takes place in Chicago’s historic Maxwell Street Market. The 100-year-old market still brings Chicagoans from all walks of life together every Sunday. 

    Here at ChiIL Mama & ChiIL Live Shows we're looking forward to Drury Lane Theatre's latest, Smokey Joe’s Cafe. We'll be out tonight for the press opening, so check back soon for our full review. The original Maxwell Street Market was always one of our favorite Chi, IL places to take visiting friends and relatives. It captures the unique spirit of Chicago so much better than most of the tourist hot spots. We're excited Drury Lane has chosen this spot for the setting of this production! 

    Drury Lane Theatre presents Smokey Joe’s Cafe, the musical revue celebrating the renowned musical duo Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller. Smokey Joe’s Cafe is directed and choreographed by internationally-acclaimed director Marcia Milgrom Dodge and runs September 1 – October 23, 2016 at Drury Lane Theatre, 100 Drury Lane in Oakbrook Terrace. 

    The longest running musical revue in Broadway history, Smokey Joe's Cafe is making its Drury Lane debut this season. Showcasing 39 pop standards, including rock’n’roll and blues anthems written by legendary duo Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller, Smokey Joe's Cafe is guaranteed to keep you humming old favorites all night long. Smokey Joe's Cafe features jukebox hits such as "Yakety Yak," "Jailhouse Rock," and "Stand By Me," and is recommended for ages 5 and up. Smokey Joe’s Cafe premiered in 1995 and received seven Tony Award nominations, including Best Musical, as well as a Grammy Award for Best Musical Show Album. 

    • Holding the record as longest-running musical revue in Broadway history, Smokey Joe’s Cafe opened on Broadway in 1995 and played 2,036 performances before closing in 2000.

    Schedule: Wednesdays: 1:30 p.m.
    Thursdays: 1:30 p.m. and 8:00 p.m.
    Fridays: 8:00 p.m.
    Saturdays: 5:00 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. 
    Sundays: 2:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m.

    Location: Drury Lane Theatre at 100 Drury Lane in Oakbrook Terrace

    Tickets: Previews: $43 - $58
    Single Tickets: $45 - $60
    Wednesday and Thursday matinees are priced at $45, Thursday and Sunday evenings at $55, and Friday, Saturday and Sunday matinee performances at $60
    Student group tickets start at $30 
    Senior Citizens start at $40 for matinees 
    Dinner and show packages available 

    Box Office: 100 Drury Lane in Oakbrook Terrace
    630.530.0111, TicketMaster at 800.745.3000

    • In 2002, Smokey Joe’s Cafe was produced as a television special with seven of the show’s original cast members returning to reprise their roles. 


    The cast of Smokey Joe’s Cafe includes Justin KeyesCarrie Abernathy, Sean BlakeDonica LynnMeghan MurphyAmy OrmanTyrone RobinsonChris Sams and Will Skrip.


    The creative team for Smokey Joe’s Cafe includes Kevin Depinet (Scenic Design), Sully Ratke (Costume Design), Paul Miller (Lighting Design) and Ryan Hickey (Sound Design). Michael Baxter is the Associate Director/Choreographer and Lucia Lombardi is the Production Stage Manager.

    • In 2010, Director and Choreographer Marcia Milgrom Dodge was nominated for a Tony Award for Best Direction of a Musical and a Drama Desk Award nomination for Outstanding Director of a Musical and Outstanding Choreography for Ragtime. The show also received both a Tony Award nomination and a Drama Desk Award nomination for Best Revival of a Musical. 


    About the Artists
    MARCIA MILGROM DODGE (Director & Choreographer) Her celebrated work as a director and choreographer has been seen throughout the United States, Canada, Great Britain, South Korea, Denmark and the Middle East.  Broadway:  Ragtime (2010 Tony Award nomination for Best Director of a Musical.) New York: Venus Flytrap (Active Theater), Cookin’ (Minetta Lane), Radio Gals (Houseman), Maltby & Shire’s Closer Than Ever (original production) and William Finn's Romance In Hard Times (The Public). National Tours: Ragtime (Phoenix Entertainment), Seussical and Curious George (Theatreworks USA.) Regional: Pioneer Theatre, The Muny, Ford’s Theatre, The Kennedy Center, Maltz Jupiter Theatre, Cincinnati Playhouse, Center Stage, Denver Center, Pittsburgh Public, St. Louis Rep, Bay Street Theatre, Music Circus, Goodman Theatre, Lyric Stage, Goodspeed, Huntington Theatre, Flat Rock Playhouse, Arena Stage. Opera: Glimmerglass Festival, 92nd Street Y.  Abroad: The Nanta Theatre (Seoul, S. Korea); Fredericia Theater (Denmark); Royal Opera House (Muskat, Oman) and the Wintergardens Theatre (Blackpool, England). Exciting collaborations with Ahrens & Flaherty & Terrence McNally; Julie Andrews; Stephen Sondheim & George Furth; Rupert Holmes; Robert Falls & John Logan; Frank Wildhorn & Jack Murphy. Television: Sesame Street; AMC’S Remember Wenn Awards: Her work has won the Helen Hayes, Carbonell, Los Angeles Drama Critics, Backstage Garland, Dora Mavor, Outer Critics Circle and Daytime Emmy Awards and she has been nominated for the Drama Desk, Astaire, Drama League, Barrymore and Edgar.  Marcia is also a teacher, a wife, a mother, a proud executive board member of the Stage Directors & Choreographers Society and a published and produced playwright.

    JUSTIN KEYES (Little Walter) Theatre – Broadway: How To Succeed..., The Apple Tree, Mary Poppins. Tour: The 25th Annual Putman County Spelling Bee; Regional: Walnut Street Theatre, Riverside Theatre, The Guthrie, Two River Theatre Company, San Francisco Symphony, Dallas Theatre Center, Kansas City Starlight, Great Lakes Theatre Festival, MUNY, Pittsburgh CLO. Television – Power; I Love You, But I Lied; Gossip Girl. Education – University of Michigan.

    CARRIE ABERNATHY (Pearl) is making her debut at Drury Lane. Carrie has appeared in Queenie Pie (Chicago Opera Theatre); The Color Purple (Mercury Theatre); My Heart is Crying: The Jackie Wilson Story, and Dionne #2 in A Tribute to Dionne Warwick (Black Ensemble Theatre). Carrie received her BA from Columbia College in music composition. Carrie is a proud member of AEA. 

    SEAN BLAKE (Sonny) returns to Drury Lane Oakbrook where he was last seen as Terpiscore, Hermes, and Cupid in Xanadu. Broadway/National Tours: Showboat 1st National (Dance Captain/Swing), Showboat Australia (Assoc. Choreographer). Regional Credits: Animal Crackers (Baltimore Centerstage), The Story, Purlie, Ain’t Misbehavin, The Rose Tattoo, Bounce (The Goodman Theatre); Grey Gardens, Everything's Ducky, A Civil War Christmas (Northlight Theatre); Porgy and Bess (Sportin’ Life; Jeff Nomination Best Supporting Actor); and Raisin (The Court Theatre); Carousel (The Court Theatre and Long Wharf Theatre); Birdie Blue (Seattle Rep. Theatre); and Hot Mikado (The Fulton Opera) to name a few. Sean can be heard on the original cast recording of Stephen Sondheim and Hal Prince’s Bounce. Sean just completed a very successful run of Why Not Me? A Sammy Davis Jr. Story in Chicago at the Fleetwood Jourdain Theatre, where he received a Black Theatre Alliance Award nomination for Best Actor in a Play. He is a three-time Jeff Award nominee and two-time Black Theatre Alliance Award nominee in Chicago. Sean is also a member of Actors’ Equity. 

    DONICA LYNN (Willie Mae) returns to Drury Lane (Hairspray, Aida, Thoroughly Modern Millie)   THEATRE: Victory Gardens (Confessions of a P.I.M.P. w/Tony Nominee André de Shields) Porchlight Music Theater (Dreamgirls BTAA & Time Out Chicago Magazine nominee Best Actress, Chicago Sings- Disney, Motown & Beatles) Off the Porch (Gatecrashers) Chicago Theatre Company (Train Is Comin)  Mercury Theater (Color Purple, Barnum) About Face Theater (When Last We Flew) Chicago Opera Theater (Queenie Pie) Barn Theatre-MI (Hair) Goodman Theatre (Lady In Denmark, Crowns-us, Ain’t Misbehavin-us) Chicago Dramatist (Vee Jay Records) Marriott Lincolnshire (Once on This Island, Suessical) Northlight (Saturday Night/Sunday Morning) Theatre at the Center-IND (Footloose, Winnie the Pooh Christmas) Paramount (Hair, Broadway Holidays) Court Theatre (Caroline or Change) Timeline (Fiorello, Step Into Time 1893 & 1939) Congo Square (Black Nativity, Sanctified) ETA Creative Arts (This Far By Faith- BTAA nom, Runaway Home-AAAA nom,  Don’t Get Around Much Anymore, Good Black) Bailiwick Rep (Georgia Tom) Fleetwood Jourdain (Black Nativity) FILM/TELEVISION: (Chicago Fire NBC Season 4:1- Let It Burn)  VOCAL PERFORMANCE: Cabernet Cabaret (Arranmore Arts) Chicago Humanities Festival, Sarah Siddons Foundation. RECORDINGS: Ramsey Lewis (Dance of the Soul CD) Two #1 solo dance club singles UK (Shout, Keep Rockin) Justin Roberts (Lullaby CD) Calvin Bridges (So Easy To Love CD) Cory Goodrich (W.O.M.A.N. ep) Female Lead Vocalist Ascendant Music Inc (Illuminate: Blue, Green) BACKGROUNDS:  Rahsaan Patterson, Natalie Cole, New Kids on the Block, Gladys Knight, Stevie Wonder ALUMNA: Walt Whitman & the Soul Children of Chicago, All-City Youth Choir. 3x brain tumor (cancer) survivor, proud AEA & AGMA member represented by Stewart Talent. Winner- Perseverance Award from Bibo (Beauty In Beauty Out) C.H.A.M.P. Community Project. 

    MEGHAN MURPHY (Ruth) is back after making her Drury Lane debut as Airman Fillmore in the Pre-Broadway World Premiere of Hazel The Musical: A Musical Maid in America last spring. Previous credits include: City of Angels (Jeff nomination for Oolie/Donna, Marriott Theater), Tommy (Acid Queen, Paramount Theater), Rent (Joanne, Paramount Theater), American Mixtape (The Second City), 50 Shades! The Musical (Pam, World Premiere Original Cast, NYC, Chicago, Canada), The First Wives Club (World Premiere, Broadway in Chicago), and countless concerts throughout Chicago, New York, LA and Canada. You also may have seen her in her one-woman show, The Big Red Show, most recently running at the Uptown Underground, in Drury Lane’s own cabaret series Leading Ladies, or her original holiday show Big Red & The Boys with About Face Theater at Theater Wit. Meghan is the lead singer of her soul/blues band Everybody Says Yes. 

    AMY ORMAN (Annette, Dance Captain) returns to the Drury Lane stage! Chicago theatre: White ChristmasSpelling BeeSunset BoulevardHairspray, A Christmas Carol at Drury Lane Oakbrook; The Who's Tommy, 42nd Street, Annie at The Paramount; 42nd Street, Guys and Dolls, Dirty Rotten Scoundrels at Theatre at the Center; Merrily We Roll Along at The Music Theatre Company. TV: Betrayal on ABC. Love and special thanks to Michael.

    TYRONE L. ROBINSON (Doc) is making his Drury Lane debut. Broadway Tours: The Book of Mormon and Disney’s The Lion King. Favorite regional credits: Ragtime (Arvada Center – Denver Henry Award nominee, Best Actor in a Musical); Big River (Goodspeed Opera House); Katonga (Busch Entertainment); Oedipus Plays (The Shakespeare Theatre, D.C.); and Disney’s Aida (Ogunquit Playhouse). Also an ASCAP award-winning composer and comedy writer, Tyrone wrote music and lyrics for the musical Show Way, which ran to critical acclaim at The Vital Theatre in New York and was nominated for an Off-Broadway Alliance Award (Best Family Musical). He also worked with writing teams at The Daily Show and The Colbert Report

    CHRIS SAMS (Cornelius) Favorite National Touring productions include: Ragtime (Coalhouse Walker Jr.), Rock of Ages (Mayor/Ja’Keith), Fifty Shades: Musical Parody (Taylor), and Will Rogers’ Follies (Soloist / Wrangler). Chris received his Bachelor's degree in Speech Communication from West Texas A&M University and the bulk of his training from participation in competitive forensics. 

    WILL SKRIP (Rod) returns to Drury Lane! Recent credits include West Side Story (Tony) at Paramount Theatre, Murder Ballad (Tom) at Cardinal Stage Company, The Little Mermaid (Prince Eric) at Chicago Shakespeare Theatre, in addition to appearances here at Drury Lane, Lyric Opera of Chicago, the Marriott, and FWD Theatre Project. Proud Northwestern Alum. Next up: The Little Mermaid and Sweeney Todd at the Paramount. 

    2016 – 2017 Season and Subscription Information
    The remainder of Drury Lane's 2016 - 2017 season includes the feel-good Gershwin musical Crazy For You, November 3, 2016 - January 8, 2017 and a revised version of Saturday Night Fever, based on the popular ‘70s film with music by The Bee Gees, January 19, 2017 - March 19, 2017.

    Subscriptions for the 2016 - 2017 Season are priced from $144.60 to $175.80.  Subscribers receive special offers on dining, flexible ticket exchanges and early notification and priority seating for added events and concerts. For more information, visit DruryLaneTheatre.com.

    About Drury Lane Theatre 
    Under the leadership of President Kyle DeSantis and Artistic Director William Osetek, Drury Lane Theatre is a major force in the Chicagoland theatre scene, presenting world-class productions in collaboration with some of the nation’s leading actors, artists, writers and directors. Over the past 30 years, Drury Lane has staged more than 2,000 productions and has been nominated for more than 350 Joseph Jefferson Awards. Drury Lane is committed to breathing new life into beloved classics and introducing audiences to exciting new works. 

    Throughout its 30-year history, Drury Lane has employed more than 7,500 actors and 10,000 musicians, designers and crewmembers to entertain upwards of nine million audience members. Originally founded by Anthony DeSantis, Drury Lane Theatre remains a family-run organization known for producing breathtaking Broadway classics, top-rated musicals, bold new works, hilarious comedies and unforgettable concert events. 



      Monday, March 7, 2016

      OPENING: World Premiere of Hazel A Musical Maid in America at Drury Lane Theatre

      Drury Lane Theatre opens its 2016-2017 season with
      the World Premiere of the 1960s musical comedy starring Klea Blackhurst

      Hazel
      A Musical Maid in America

      Music by Ron Abel
      Lyrics by Chuck Steffan
      Book by Lissa Levin
      Directed and Choreographed by Joshua Bergasse
       March 31 – May 20, 2016



      Drury Lane Theatre opens its 2016-2017 season with the World Premiere musical comedy Hazel, A Musical Maid in America, based on the character from the Saturday Evening Post comic strip and the 1960s TV comedy series starring Shirley Booth. Hazel features a book by Lissa Levin, music by Ron Abel, and lyrics by Chuck Steffan. This new musical is directed and choreographed by Emmy and Tony Award-winner Joshua Bergasse with musical direction by Roberta Duchak. Hazel runs March 31 – May 29, 2016 at Drury Lane Theatre, 100 Drury Lane in Oakbrook Terrace. 

      It's the 1960s, a time of great change for America, but not all of the Baxter family is on board. What George Baxter finds not so funny about his wife joining the work force and his maid taking over his household and his life – is a laugh riot. Directed and choreographed by Emmy Award winner Joshua Bergasse, "Hazel" asks the question: can a simple maid debone a turkey, save a marriage, uncover a matter of national security and lead a conga line? She can if she's Hazel!

      Tickets:  
      Previews: $43 - $58
      Single Tickets: $45 - $60
      Wednesday and Thursday matinees are priced at $45, Thursday and Sunday evenings at $55, and Friday, Saturday and Sunday matinee performances at $60.
      Student group tickets start at $30
      Senior Citizens start at $40 for matinees.
      Dinner and show packages available

      Box Office: 100 Drury Lane in Oakbrook Terrace
      630.530.0111, TicketMaster at 800.745.3000


      "From the moment we discovered Hazel, we fell in love with it,” said Kyle DeSantis, President of Drury Lane Productions. “The production solidifies our commitment to fostering new work we believe in. Under the incredible direction of Joshua Bergasse, Hazel promises to delight and surprise our audiences.”

      Hazel is based on one of the most beloved and enduring characters in American popular culture. Hazel, a saucy maid with a wry sense of humor, timeless wisdom, and a heart of gold, was created by cartoonist Ted Key and has been adored for more than 60 years. She first appeared in the Saturday Evening Post in 1943 as a single-panel cartoon and continued to delight readers of all ages until the magazine went out of print in 1969. Hazel was brought to life by Academy Award winner Shirley Booth on a TV sitcom of the same name, and ran for five award-winning seasons.

      The cast of Hazel includes Klea Blackhurst (Hazel), Ken Clark (George Baxter), Summer Naomi Smart (Dorothy Baxter), Casey Lyons (Harold Baxter), Tyler Martin (Scotty Ferber), Ava Morse (Benedetta Bomicino), Rowan Moxley (Reuben Steuben), and Ed Kross (Bonkers Johnson). The ensemble includes Bill Bannon, Johnson Brock, Courtney Cerny, Brian M. Duncan, Roy Gantz, Rhett Guter, Terrance Martin, Shari Mocheit, Meghan Murphy, Kristen Noonan, Gerard Salvador and Holly Stauder.

      The creative team includes Kevin Depinet (Set Design), Sully Ratke (Costume Design), Lee Fiskness (Lighting Design), Christopher Ash (Projection Design), Ray Nardelli (Sound Design) and Lucia Lombardi (Production Stage Manager).

      2016 – 2017 Season and Subscription Information
      Following Hazel, Drury Lane's 2016 - 2017 season of will continue with Ira Levin's murder mystery Deathtrap, June 9 - August 14, 2016, followed by Smokey Joe's Café, featuring the iconic songwriting of Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller, September 1 - October 23, 2016, and the feel-good Gershwin musical Crazy For You, November 3, 2016 - January 8, 2017.  The season will conclude with a revised version of Saturday Night Fever, based on the popular ‘70s film with music by The Bee Gees, January 19, 2017 - March 19, 2017.

      Subscriptions for the 2016 - 2017 Season are priced from $144.60 to $175.80.  Subscribers receive special offers on dining, flexible ticket exchanges and early notification and priority seating for added events and concerts. For more information, visit DruryLaneTheatre.com.

      About Drury Lane Theatre
      Under the leadership of President Kyle DeSantis and Artistic Director William Osetek, Drury Lane Theatre is a major force in the Chicagoland theatre scene, presenting world-class productions in collaboration with some of the nation’s leading actors, artists, writers and directors. Over the past 30 years, Drury Lane has staged more than 2,000 productions and has been nominated for more than 350 Joseph Jefferson Awards. Drury Lane is committed to breathing new life into beloved classics and introducing audiences to exciting new works.

      Throughout its 30-year history, Drury Lane has employed more than 7,500 actors and 10,000 musicians, designers and crewmembers to entertain upwards of nine million audience members. Originally founded by Anthony DeSantis, Drury Lane Theatre remains a family-run organization known for producing breathtaking Broadway classics, top-rated musicals, bold new works, hilarious comedies and unforgettable concert events.

      Monday, June 8, 2015

      OPENING: Pre-Broadway production of Beaches, A New Musical at Drury Lane 6/24


      Cast Announced For Beaches, A New Musical
      Pre-Broadway Musical Plays Drury Lane Theatre 
      June 24 – August 16

      Drury Lane Productions and Jennifer Maloney-Prezioso (Broadway: Spring Awakening, Rock of Ages) are thrilled to announce the cast for the pre-Broadway production of Beaches, A New Musical, based on the beloved novel by Iris Rainer Dart. Previewing June 24, opening on July 2 and running through August 16, 2015, the original musical is written by Iris Rainer Dart and Thom Thomas, with music by David Austin and lyrics by Iris Rainer Dart. The production is directed by Eric Schaeffer (Broadway: Follies, Million Dollar Quartet).


      The all-star cast is led by Shoshana Bean as “Cee Cee Bloom,” and Whitney Bashor as “Bertie White.” Bean, a veteran of the Broadway stage debuted in the original cast of Hairspray and starred as the very first replacement for Elphaba, the green-skinned witch, in Wicked. Her independent solo releases have topped the iTunes R&B and Blues charts in the US and UK in peak positions 5, 3 and now #1 with the release of her latest EP Shadows to Light. She also sang back up for Michael Jackson at his 30th anniversary concert at Madison Square Garden and her music has also been featured in TV shows on NBC, MTV, Oxygen and Showtime.  


      Whitney Bashor (left) and Shoshana Bean (right)


      Bashor appeared in Broadway’s Tony award-winning Bridges of Madison County and went from the stage to the small screen, appearing on HBO’s critically acclaimed Boardwalk Empire. 

      The young versions of the characters are played by Presley Ryan as “Little Cee Cee” (How The Grinch Stole Christmas at Madison Square Garden, NBC’s Sound of Music Live) and Brooklyn Shuck as “Little Bertie / Nina” (Broadway: Matilda in Matilda, Annie)

      Also starring is Travis Taylor as “John Perry” (Lancelot in Camelot at Drury Lane Theatre, Sunday in the Park with George at Goodman Theatre), Nancy Voigts asLeona Bloom” (Follies at Chicago Shakespeare Theatre, A Christmas Carol at Goodman Theatre), Kelly Anne Clark as “Rose White” (I Love You You're Perfect Now Change - Off Broadway, Victor/Victoria at the Marriott for which she won a Jeff Award), Jim DeSelm as “Michael Barron” (Tony in West Side Story at Drury Lane Theatre, TV: Chicago P.D.), Michael Accardo as “Nathan Bloom” (Full Monty at Drury Lane Theatre Water Tower, TV: Chicago P.D.), Andrew Varela as “Arthur” (Broadway: Les Misérables and Little Women), Samantha Pauly as “Teen Cee Cee” (Godspell at Marriott, TV: Chicago P.D. and Shameless) and Olivia Renteria (Brigadoon at Goodman Theatre, Oliver at Drury Lane Theatre) as “Teen Bertie.”

      Rounding out the cast are William Carlos Angulo, Heather Brorsen, Josh Kohane, Christine Mild and Holly Stauder.

      Beaches will be choreographed by Lorin Latarro (Broadway: Waiting for Godot, Scandalous), with musical direction by Brian Nash (Silence!, Kathy Najimy: Lift Up Your Skirt). The production will also feature scenic design by Tony and Emmy Award®-winning Derek McLane (86th Academy Awards, Broadway: Anything Goes, Ragtime), lighting design by Tony Award®-winning Howell Binkley (Broadway: Jersey Boys, West Side Story, Memphis), costume design by Alejo Vietti (Broadway: Beautiful, The Carole King Musical, Jersey Boys), and sound design by Tony Award®-nominated Kai Harada (Broadway: Fun Home, Follies, Million Dollar Quartet).

      Previews for Beaches begin June 24, opening night is scheduled for July 2, and the production will run through August 16. Tickets are on sale now and available by calling the Drury Lane Theatre box office at 630.530.0111, TicketMaster at 800.745.3000 or visiting www.drurylane.com. The performance schedule is as follows: Wednesdays at 1:30 p.m. ($45), Thursdays at 1:30 p.m. ($45) and 8 p.m. ($55), Fridays at 8 p.m. ($60), Saturdays at 5 p.m. ($60), and 8:30 p.m. ($60), and Sundays at 2 p.m. ($60), and 6 p.m. ($55). Student group tickets start as low as $30 and Senior Citizens start at $40 for matinees. Dinner and show packages are also available.

      For more information on Beaches and the rest of the 2015-2016 theatrical season at Drury Lane, please visit www.drurylane.com.


      Thursday, March 26, 2015

      OPENING: BILLY ELLIOT IGNITES THE STAGE AT DRURY LANE THEATRE APRIL 10


      Tickets On Sale Now For The Regional Premiere of the Critically Acclaimed Musical 


      Several years back, we had the great pleasure of reviewing the Broadway touring production of Billy Elliot and it remains one of our favorites. We can't wait to see Drury Lane's take on this extraordinary musical. Here at ChiIL Mama and ChiIL Live Shows we've been wowed in the past by Drury Lane's high production values and professionalism. Get your tickets as soon as possible for best seats and range of dates.





      The International smash-hit musical BILLY ELLIOT makes its regional premiere at Drury Lane Theatre on April 10 – June 7, 2015. Opening night is scheduled for April 16, 2015 at 8 p.m.  Heralded as “A triumph! The #1 show of the year!" by Time Magazine and “Thrilling! Impossible to resist!" by The New York Times, BILLY ELLIOT follows a young boy as he trades in his boxing gloves for dancing shoes. In an unforgettable story set in a small mining town in the English countryside, a dance teacher finds a diamond in the rough when she discovers Billy—a young boy with a passion for dance who inspires the entire community. The musical phenomenon is set to an explosive score by Elton John, celebrating Billy’s journey against the odds to make his dreams come true.

      BILLY ELLIOT is directed by multiple Jeff Award-winner Rachel Rockwell (Ragtime, West Side Story, at Drury Lane Theatre, Brigadoon at The Goodman Theatre), with Musical Direction by Jeff Award-winner Roberta Duchak (Les Miserables and Sweeney Todd at Drury Lane Theatre, vocal coach for Russell Crowe and Hugh Jackman for the Academy Award-winning film Les Miserables). One of the most celebrated musicals on stage today, BILLY ELLIOT has been dazzling London's West End since 2005. The production is the winner of 10 Tony Awards and 10 Drama Desk Awards, including Best Musical. The production features a score by Elton John (The Lion King, Aida) with book and lyrics by Lee Hall, who wrote the screenplay for the Academy Award-nominated film that inspired the musical.

      “BILLY ELLIOT is an incredibly emotional journey of a struggling community, a shifting country and, most importantly, a father and son relationship and my role is to tell this story in the most truthful way possible,” says Director Rachel Rockwell. “One of my main goals is to showcase this cast, in particular our two young actors playing Billy, by nurturing their raw talent to help them transform into this multi-dimensional character.”


      After an extensive search, Drury Lane is pleased to announce that the title role of “Billy” will be played by two very talented Chicago natives, Nicholas Dantes and Kyle Halford. "When the casting process began we asked ourselves: are Billy Elliot's found or made?” says Artistic Director William Osetek. "After months of auditions it was clear that one must be created. The search required a young actor who brought incredible raw talent, but needed to be cultivated to stand up to the impossible task of performing the role of a young boy whose dance ability leaves one breathless.”  The two boys playing Billy have worked for months, honing skills in ballet, acrobatics and tap (not to mention acting and vocal lessons).


      Nicholas Dantes                                                        Kyle Halford

      Also starring is Jeff Award-winner Susie McMonagle as “Mrs. Wilksinson” (Broadway: Les Miserables at the Imperial Theatre, National Tours: Billy Elliot and Mamma Mia! and Next to Normal at Drury Lane), Ron E. Rains as “Dad” (BIG, The Musical and 1776 at Drury Lane, Goodman Theatre’s A Christmas Carol), Maureen Gallagher as “Grandma” (Steppenwolf Theatre, Chicago Shakespeare Theatre, The Goodman Theatre), and Liam Quealy as “Tony” (My Fair Lady at Paramount Theatre, Pirates of Penzance at Marriott Theatre). The cast also features Michael Harp as “Michael” (The Sound of Music at Lyric Opera, Chicago, Billy Elliot in St. Louis), Brooke MacDougal (Member of The Performer’s School ensemble, professional debut) and Peyton Schaffer (Les Miserables and Seussical at Drury Lane,) as “Debbie Wilkinson,” Terry Hamilton as “George” (Airline Highway at Steppenwolf Theatre), Brianna Borger as “Mum” (The King and I and Into The Woods at Porchlight Theater), Rhett Gutter as “Older Billy” (West Side Story at Drury Lane, Brigadoon at The Goodman Theatre) and Bret Tuomi as “Mr. Braithwaite” (West Side Story at Drury Lane, A Christmas Carol at The Goodman Theatre). 

      Rounding out the cast are William Carlos Angulo, Julia Baker, Cody Bolithon, Johnson Brock, Grier Burke, Gary Carlson, Michael Di Leo, Abigail Dudich, Samantha Erne, Allison Graves,
      Sage Harper, Hannah Clare Horner, Raymond Interior, Amelia Grace Kuhlman, Princess Isis Z. Lang, Emily Leahy, Iris Lieberman, Ingrid Clare Lowery, Katie Malchow, Mia Moore,
      Ava Morse, Ashton Schaffer, Peter Scharbrough, Steven Spanapoulos, Brandon Springman, Holly Stauder, Zachary Uzarraga, Jonathan Weir, and Fred Zimmerman.

      As the first regional production, an incredible artistic team has been assembled to bring this story to life, led by Artistic Director William Osetek (Next to Normal, Young Frankenstein and Spamalot at Drury Lane). Scenic design for BILLY ELIOTT was created by Kevin Depinet (Associate Designer for Tony Award winning August Osage County on Broadway, Camelot at Drury Lane) with Lee Fiskness as Lighting Designer (Resident lighting director Santa Fe Opera, Young Frankenstein at Drury Lane), Costume Coordination by Maggie Hofmann (Camelot, The Game's Afoot, and Young Frankenstein [Co-design with Erika Senase] at Drury Lane), Garth Helm as Sound Designer (Tony nomination for Pippin on Broadway, West Side Story at Drury Lane), Nick Heggestad as Properties Designer (Resident properties designer at Drury Lane) and Penny Lane Studios (Samantha Umstead and Coral Gable) as Wig and Hair Designer (Steppenwolf, Lookingglass, Writers Theatre). Additionally, Christine Adair is the Dialect Coach (Broadway and First North American Tour productions of Mary Poppins) and Matt Hawkins is the Fight Choreographer (Les Miserables at Drury Lane Theatre and The Wheel and Belleville at Steppenwolf Theatre Company).

      Tickets for BILLY ELLIOT are on sale now and available by calling the Drury Lane Theatre box office at 630.530.0111, TicketMaster at 800.745.3000 or visiting www.drurylane.com. The performance schedule is as follows: Wednesdays at 1:30 p.m. ($45), Thursdays at 1:30 p.m. ($45) and 8 p.m. ($55), Fridays at 8 p.m. ($60), Saturdays at 5 p.m. ($60), and 8:30 p.m. ($60), and Sundays at 2 p.m. ($60), and 6 p.m. ($55). Student group tickets start as low as $30 and Senior Citizens start at $40 for matinees. Dinner and show packages are also available.

      For more information on BILLY ELLIOT and the rest of the 2015-2016 theatrical season, please visit www.drurylane.com.


      About Drury Lane Theatre
      Drury Lane is a beautiful, unique and versatile facility that combines ideal location, functionality and elegance to make it one of Chicagoland's finest facilities. As the premier destination for dining, theatre and events, Drury Lane is home to the nation’s most spectacular Broadway – quality theatre productions. For more information about Drury Lane, please visit its website or Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest pages.


      Tuesday, January 6, 2015

      OPENING: West Side Story at Drury Lane Theatre 1/15-3/22

      West Side Story at Drury Lane Theatre
      FROM JANUARY 15 THROUGH MARCH 22, 2015

      Here at ChiIL Mama & ChiIL Live Shows we can't wait to see Drury Lane's take on this well loved classic. They do a spectacular job with high caliber productions from talent to tech. We'll be reviewing opening night so check back early and often. We've seen the Broadway touring version of West Side Story twice along with a host of hometown reincarnations and we're looking forward to this production.

      Act Out:  Chicago Theatre openings, closings, reviews, giveaways, ticket sale dates and more via ChiIL Live Shows. 



      Drury Lane Theatre, 100 Drury Lane, is kicking off the New Year with WEST SIDE STORY, the revolutionary Tony Award-winning production that forever changed American musical theater. Experience the passion, drama and heart-pounding excitement of WEST SIDE STORY like never before. The production previews January 15, opens January 22 and runs through March 22. Multi-Jeff Award winner Rachel Rockwell (Les Misérables, Ragtime, The Sound of Music, Sweeney Todd, and Oliver! at Drury Lane Theatre) will direct, and Rhett Guter (who starred in the International Tour of WEST SIDE STORY and Choreographed Anything Goes at The Utah Shakespeare Festival) serves as Choreographer and Associate Director and stars as “Riff.” The musical's famous choreography is being reimagined says Rockwell, "Modern re-stagings of the famous dances often romanticize the violence of the piece. As we restructure the brilliant work of Jerome Robbins, much of the balletic movement will be replaced with more percussive dance and in some cases outright combat to depict the tragedy as the two rival street gangs wage a war in the back alleys of Manhattan.”  WEST SIDE STORY features a dynamic cast led by Christina Nieves as “Maria” (Les Misérables at Drury Lane Theatre, A Midsummer Night’s Dream at Chicago Shakespeare Theater and The Sins of Sor Juana at Goodman Theatre), Jim DeSelm as “Tony” (Godspell at Theatre at the Center and South Pacific at Marriott Theatre), and Michelle Aravena as “Anita” (Rocky, A Chorus Line, and Jersey Boys on Broadway and the National Tour of West Side Story).

      WEST SIDE STORY is a provocative exploration of race relations with an underlying message of hope that is as relevant today as ever. Variety raves that the musical “Still dazzles after more than 50 years. Majestic! Some of the most achingly beautiful expressions of love ever sung!” The San Francisco Chronicle exclaims that it is “A miraculous fusion of theatrical elements…full of musical treasures!” and the New Yorker enthuses that WEST SIDE STORY is “So exciting it makes you ache with pleasure!”

      A modern retelling of Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet set on the Upper West Side of Manhattan in the 1950s, WEST SIDE STORY is the poignant tale of Tony and Maria, star-crossed young lovers caught in a turf war between rival gangs. The musical has an electrifying Latin and Jazz-infused score including “Somewhere,” “Tonight,” “I Feel Pretty,” and “America.” WEST SIDE STORY first premiered on Broadway in 1957 and is the result of a collaboration between three theatrical luminaries, featuring a masterful Book by Tony Award-winner Arthur Laurents, Music by Tony and Grammy Award-winner Leonard Bernstein and Lyrics by Tony, Grammy, Pulitzer Prize and Academy Award-winner Stephen Sondheim. The smash hit 1961 film version of WEST SIDE STORY won 10 Academy Awards, including Best Picture, and catapulted the musical to the center of the national conversation.


      The cast also features John Francis Gray as “Officer Krupke,” Roger Mueller as “Doc” (Brigadoon at Goodman Theatre and My One and Only at Marriott Theatre), Lucas Segovia as “Bernardo” (Swan Lake and Romeo and Juliet with Joffrey Ballet Chicago), Bret Tuomi as “Lt. Shrank” (Rock of Ages on Broadway and The Iceman Cometh at Goodman Theatre) and Tommy Rivera Vega as “Chino” (Cats at Theo Ubique Cabaret Theater). The ensemble includes Adrian Aguilar (“Action”), Isaiah Allatorre (“Anxious”),  Anthony Avino (“Indio”), Larry Baldacci (“Gladhand”), Annelise Baker (“Graziella”), Lillian Castillo (“Rosalia”), Courtney Cerny (“Minnie”), Carl Draper (“Diesel”), Cameron Erdis (“Snowboy”), Lucas Fedele (“A-rab”), Ryan Fitzgerald (“Big Deal”), Rachel Marie LaPorte (“Consuela”), Kristina Larson-Hauk (“Pauline”), John Marshall, Jr. (“Baby John”), Deanna Ott (“Velma”), Chip Payos (“Nibbles”), Todd Rhoades (“Luis”), Elena Romanowski (“Teresita”), Emma Rosenthal (“Anybodys”), Will Skrip (“Gee-Tar”), Glenn Snellgrose (“Pepe”) and Lauren Villegas (“Francisca”).

      Musical Direction for WEST SIDE STORY is by Roberta Duchak (Les Misérables and Ragtime at Drury Lane Theatre, and vocal coach for Russell Crowe and Hugh Jackman for the Academy Award-winning film Les Misérables). The set, designed by Scott Davis (Les Misérables and Next to Normal at Drury Lane Theatre and Shrek the Musical at Chicago Shakespeare Theater), recreates the gritty streets and Upper West Side apartment living in 1950s New York City. The artistic team also includes Nick Heggestad as Properties Designer (Camelot and The Game’s Afoot at Drury Lane Theatre), Rick Jarvie as Wig and Makeup Designer (Camelot, The Game’s Afoot and The Sound of Music at Drury Lane Theatre), Yael Lubetzky as Lighting Designer (the Broadway production of Russell Simmons Def Poetry Jam), Ray Nardelli as Sound Designer (Camelot, Young Frankenstein, and Next to Normal at Drury Lane Theatre), Erika Senase as Costume Coordinator (Camelot, Les Misérables and Young Frankenstein at Drury Lane Theatre) and Original Costume Design is by David Woolard , featuring costumes from the 2012 National Tour. Eva Breneman is the Dialect Coach (Camelot and Les Misérables at Drury Lane Theatre) and Matt Hawkins is the Fight Choreographer (Les Misérables at Drury Lane Theatre and The Wheel and Belleville at Steppenwolf Theatre Company).


      The performance schedule for WEST SIDE STORY is as follows: Wednesdays at 1:30 p.m. ($45), Thursdays at 1:30 p.m. ($45) and 8 p.m. ($50), Fridays at 8 p.m. ($60), Saturdays at 5 p.m. ($60), and 8:30 p.m. ($60), and Sundays at 2 p.m. ($60), and 6 p.m. ($55). Student group tickets start as low as $30 and Senior Citizens start at $35 for matinees. For reservations, call the Drury Lane Theatre box office at 630.530.0111, call TicketMaster at 800.745.3000 or visit www.drurylane.com. 

      Google Analytics