The "Agony" is Over: A Movie Review of Disney's Into The Woods

Before Christmas, Into the Woods had bad reviews from it's initial premiere. Of course, there weren't musical theatre kids at that premiere. Heck, I'm willing to bet that there weren't kids at the premiere either. After Christmas, I read more positive than negative reviews. (example: http://www.newyorker.com/culture/cultural-comment/why-into-the-woods-matters, or https://www.theproducersperspective.com/my_weblog/2014/12/5-reasons-why-i-loved-the-into-the-woods-movie.html)

My thoughts on the film and why it is fantastic:

Into the Woods Logo

1. James Lapine and Stephen Sondheim worked on the film. They both wrote the musical. Obviously they want the film to be extremely close to the show. 
2. Rob Marshall directed this as well as the film adaption of Chicago. That movie went onto win the Best Picture Oscar in 2003 (no movie musical had won since). Every choice that was made was clear and thought out. I really trusted him with this wonderful piece of musical theatre.
3. Rob Marshall stated that he wanted a Post 9/11 Fairy tale feel. His reasoning was because Fairy tales mean something depending on the time. I thought that the approach was intelligent and also very true.
4. It wasn't even Disney! So many people thought that it was going to be "Disney-fied" and everything would be more like Disney. That isn't true. In fact, this is the darkest Disney film I have seen (and possibly ever created). It stayed extremely true to the original show (even though there had to be some changes for timing reasons).
5. They cast singers, not just big name people! Sure, Anna Kendrick and Meryl Streep are the big name stars, but they cast the film based on their abilities. Jack was from the West End (remember Gavroche in Les Miserables two years ago? Same person). Little Red was Annie in the most recent revival of Annie. I could go on and on, but it would take hours to get through.

Emily Blunt as the Baker's Wife and James Cordan as the Baker

There are too many reasons why I loved the movie (as listed above). The only things I didn't hate, but also didn't love were:

• "Act 2" was jammed into the last 30 minutes of the movie. If they extended the run time to 2 hours 15 minutes, then it would have been perfect.
• Anna Kendrick had a complete 180 from Pitch Perfect. She had to embody a Classical Broadway sound for Cinderella. It is a challenge, and she managed to get that Broadway sound. There were hints of Classical in there, but not enough. She is too "modern Broadway" (as some of my friends called it), and that is why she'll be perfect in The Last Five Years. Cinderella wasn't the best fit for her, but she still did a pretty good job. 

Now what does Disney producing a musical so dark as INTO THE WOODS mean for other movie musicals? It means that many other musicals now have an opportunity to begin development. INTO THE WOODS grossed $13 Million on opening day. Disney took a chance on INTO THE WOODS, and it was a success. Could this mean that...

• Dreamworks could produce a movie version of Side Show?
• Nickelodeon could produce a movie version of Anything Goes? 
• Disney could produce a movie version of Hello, Dolly! ?

Who knows? The future looks bright for the movie musical world. I mean, as long as they continue to cast singers and not only big name stars, but also if they think of the future and giving the children the opportunity to experience culture. "Careful of the things you say, Children will listen".

"Anything can happen in the woods", and Disney proved that with Into the Woods, which is currently in theaters as of Christmas Day. I knew that the movie was going to be great, and my expectations were exceeded. They get a solid A from me. If they didn't cut down the second half of the story, it would have been a solid A+. 

Be careful what you wish for...

-Nathan Clift, 17, Trumbull High School

President of the Youth Board

The Little Mermaid Wasn't A Flop And I Can Prove It!

Tonight, ABC Family aired a 1-hour special dedicated to Disney's Broadway Musicals. From Beauty and the Beast to Aladdin, Disney Theatrical Productions have captivated audiences every year for 20 years. We also got confirmation that FROZEN will hit the Great White Way... at some point. However, there was little mention of The Little Mermaid, Tarzan, Aida, and no mention of the Broadway-Bound Hunchback of Notre Dame. Of course, those shows/ movies didn't do well, so why would Disney bother with them?

Maybe I'm being a little harsh on Disney. Then again, maybe I'm not...

I saw Beauty and the Beast and The Little Mermaid on Broadway. Those where the first two shows I've seen. I loved both of them. The adults didn't. I'm going back to Disney, but first: Peter Pan Live! and a little boy named Iain.
(email viewers, try this link)

Iain is a little boy that reviews live theater. He stayed up to watch Peter Pan Live! and guess what: 

he loved it.

(email viewers: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=buue45huJbQ) 

I have the VHS tapes of Mary Martin as Peter Pan and Cathy Rigby as Peter Pan. I always loved watching them. No matter what time of the day it was, I could get invested in that musical. It's wonderful! However, Peter Pan Live! had a 47% viewer decrease after Sound of Music Live! Adults downgraded the special and so did some teens.

Lucky for me, I have the height and mind of a child. 

I loved it. I was amazed with what they were able to do with it and it brought me back to my childhood. You bet that when Tinkerbell was dying, 17 year old Nathan was clapping my hands and yelling "COME ON TINK! YOU CAN DO IT!" and it reminded me of small child me: shouting the same thing and possibly crying when Tinkerbell would sacrifice herself for Peter. 

Why does any of this matter?

We need to market to the children. I know that sounds odd and terrible, but it's true. (Now I'll go back to Disney)
I didn't care about the "issues" with The Little Mermaid Musical. When I was 10, I saw my favorite Disney film enacted onstage. To this day, it boggles my mind how they managed to do everything. However, it lasted one and half years and it was called a flop. Newsies ran 2 years and called a success. Disney must have forgotten the word "financial" somewhere in there.

We need to start thinking about the future of the world. If we can make a small child think that Ariel is swimming under the sea, 2 girls with different families are conjoined twins, Peter Pan can fly, or even that Lions are onstage, it is a success. That means that we, as thespians, have done our job. We created a memory for that child. We helped them grow as a person. We made them laugh/ cry/ yell at the sky. We created a world for that child. THAT is what's magical.

Yes, Frozen is coming to Broadway. Yes, Quasimodo and Esmeralda are as well. Before you shut down an idea, ask your child what they want to do. Chances are, if it is real for them, that's all that matters in life.

-Nathan Clift, 17
Trumbull High School
President of the Youth Board

How to Survive Your First Semester in a Musical Theatre Program

So, you're thinking about auditioning for a musical theatre program. That's a huge process, and you'll need as much help as you can. But there's already a post about that. But let's say you've already chosen a great program, and you're starting your studies in the fall. Well, as a freshman Musical Theatre major at Rider University, I've learned some great tips on how to survive your first semester. My first semester was absolutely incredible, and if you follow this advice, I promise yours will be too. 

1. Time management is key. 

I'm sure you've heard this a million time, but it's essential that you manage your time wisely. There are so many amazing opportunities in a strong fine and performing arts program: shows, acapella groups, cabarets and tons of other things. So pick and choose wisely, because your schoolwork can suffer if you jump in to everything right away. 

2. Schoolwork still matters. 

I'm sure this is the last thing you want to hear, after killing yourself in AP classes trust to get into the program. But grades don't stop there. Unless you're studying at a conservatory, you will still have academic requirements to graduate, on top of your acting and dance classes. Usually, you have to keep your GPA up just to stay in the program. Studying musical theatre is a ton of fun, but you have to make schoolwork a priority as well. 

3. Sleep!

In college, you're going to have some of the best times of your life. But in order to have fun, and then wake up in time for your 8 am ballet class, you have to get sleep. I've spent many nights singing until 3, and I paid for it in the morning. There will always be time to enjoy college to the fullest, but please, just go to sleep. 

4. Party hard, Party smart. 

Remember how I said to get some sleep? Well, not all the time. There will be plenty of opportunities to make friends and let loose from the strenuous week of ballet, voice lessons and *gasp* math. So when you get an invite to an off-campus party, you'll probably jump at the chance. You'll arrive at some upperclassmen's house at 10:15, and they'll immediately offer you alcohol. Here's the thing: I'm not gonna be your dad. I know you're going to experiment, and you'll feel like your invincible, or at least until the next morning. But you have to remember, your body is your instrument, and you have to keep it in top shape on a daily basis. It's up to you to decide what you can handle, so make the right decisions. 

5. Enjoy yourself!

You have the incredible privilege of studying your dream in college. Take full advantage of it! Branch out and meet everyone in your program, especially the upperclassmen. They are the ones that will support you and help you through rough times. Also, get to know your faculty. Not only will they be the ones casting your shows, but they can be great support as well. Finally, get involved. You'll have the best experiences by trying new things or joining different groups. You don't just have to stick to theatre either. Branching outside of your major will keep you grounded in real life. 

But your there to study musical theatre, and to have the greatest time of your life. Never lose sight of your dreams; they will guarantee success and happiness. 

-Matt Sweeney, 18

Rider University

Former President, NPT Youth Board (2012-2014)

What To Do When You Are Applying For Musical Theatre Programs In College

One day, I was with my voice instructor, and he was helping me film my audition tape for one of the colleges I am applying to. We finish my two songs, one monologue, and in the middle of filming take 8 of my second monologue, my video camera dies. Did I do the smart thing and bring the charger? Nah.

Needless to say, I couldn't finish filming the second monologue or the dance portion.

So, my audition tape is due in 24 hours, and I have 1/2 of it done. That is not the point of this post.

Don't do my mistakes. Here are a few tips on how to not fall into the pit I or other hopefuls have and how to feel ready when you are filming:

1. MEMORIZE: Do not choose your songs/ monologues/ dance style the day before you film. You might be the most trained actor in the world and can memorize a play within an hour, and you would think that you can memorize a Shakespearean monologue like it is nobody's business. Please don't. You will mess up and be forced into improvising. They will know that you weren't ready. Don't do that.
2. BRING EXTRA BATTERIES/ CHARGER: As told in my story, another source of battery life will ensure that all portions of your video can be done in that day and not done at the last minute. College applicant's honor. 
3. SHEET PROTECTORS ARE AN ACTOR'S BEST FRIEND: The pianist cannot worry about flipping pages. Their priority is making sure YOU have a piano line being played. Sheet protectors allow for easy page turning. Non-glare will get you bonus points (maybe. That is not a guarantee, so do not take my word for it). Adding on, PLEASE make sure it is in the right key. Hasn't happened to me, but it has happened to people I know.
4. DON'T BE OVER CONFIDENT: If you are practicing your face when you get that letter saying "You've been accepted to the ___________ BA/ BFA Musical Theatre Program!", just stop. Musical Theatre is one of the most competitive majors out there. There is no guarantee that you will make it into the program. Ithaca College has one of the most intense programs (I think only 2% of all applicants to the musical theatre program make it). I have been practicing for months and I am still unsure if an audition will be extended to me from ANY school. Please, you may be great, but college is for growth. Don't think you're all that and an EGOT at 17 years old. You're not that good yet.
5. DON'T BE FAKE: I have been a director and I am also producing a show now. I HATE IT when people try to play a character they are not. The best monologues/ songs are when I see the truth of the performer. NEVER try to duplicate a professionals work (I swear, if I hear one more girl trying to be Barbara Streisand singing "Don't Rain On My Parade" I might lose it). How do you connect to it? How does Bob relate to this song? How does he sing it differently than Joe does? What is their message, instead of what the show is trying to say? I can tell you right now that I have sung songs and performed monologues without looking at the text prior to learning it. After I memorize and rehearse something, I look at other productions and see how they saw the piece. I never try to be someone else. I am the only me, and why should I be a copy when I might have a great idea of the piece?
6. LASTLY... DON'T COMPLAIN ON SOCIAL MEDIA: Oh god, PLEASE don't! I have been in shows, and people began to flip out because one of their friends didn't get cast as a lead and an underclassmen has. That's gonna be YOUR life! One day, you will be up against someone who is just as good as you, but can play it better than you can. It is the director's job to do what is best for the show. It is NOT his or her job to make you feel better about yourself by playing seniority. FUN FACT: I have not gotten one lead. I have been a major supporting character before, but never a lead. Freshmen and sophomores have gotten leads over me while I was in the ensemble. Have I complained? No. I was happy I was in the show! If you are doing theatre to get leads, then you aren't in it for the right reasons.
   
   Same thing goes for colleges. Don't complain that you didn't get into a program. Karma has a funny way of getting back at you. Maybe other colleges will see you ranting on your Facebook and decide that they do not want you at their school. Maybe a casting director background checks you and sees that you bad-mouthed a sophomore that worked her butt off to get a lead while you expected to get one just because (I was in a show once where that happened). I wouldn't want to hire that person.
   
   The internet is forever, you know.

So before you complain about how life isn't fair on Twitter or Facebook, think about all those people that have gotten cut from shows or thrown into the ensemble because they weren't lead material. It took those people YEARS to just make a Broadway musical. It isn't an overnight sensation gig.

Some magazines and websites offer tips on how to ace your audition or how to get over not getting cast. Backstage is both a Facebook page/ website/ magazine that offers tips/ hints/ audition info. Broadway.com and Playbill will also have similar information.

Break legs everyone!

-Nathan Clift, 17, Trumbull HS

President of the NPT Youth Board

Brand New 'Television Event Of The Season' PETER PAN LIVE! Promo

(Source: http://www.broadwayworld.com/article/Brand-New-Television-Event-Of-The-Year-PETER-PAN-LIVE-Promo-20141116?PageSpeed=noscript)

A splashy new promo for PETER PAN LIVE!

NBC's eagerly awaited live telecast of the cherished Golden Age musical PETER PAN is less than a month away and a flashy, brand new "Television Event Of The Season" promo is now available to view, featuring Allison Williams and Christopher Walken in costume, in action, singing and dancing up a storm.

The official description of NBC's PETER PAN LIVE! is as follows: "Preparing to sprinkle fairy dust across America, NBC presents a bold new LIVE television version of the classic Broadway musical that will gather friends, families and anyone who refuses to ever grow up. Following in the footsteps of the phenomenally successful THE SOUND OF MUSIC LIVE! - which drew over 18 million viewers - comes this musical masterpiece that tells the beloved story of Peter Pan, the mischievous little boy who ran away to Neverland. Get ready for show-stopping stars, stunning costumes, extravagant sets and delightful music that will have everyone in your home singing along. From Executive Producers Craig Zadan and Neil Meron comes a soaring LIVE three-hour holiday event guaranteed to take viewers on a magical and musical journey to the second star to the right."

PETER PAN LIVE! is set to air on NBC on December 4.

More information on Peter Pan Live! is available at the official site here.

View the new "Television Event Of The Season" PETER PAN LIVE! promotional spot below. (email viewers click here)

Are You With the Devil? THS presents The Crucible

"The town's been mumbling witchcraft..."
Trumbull High School has put on numerous shows of all shapes and sizes. From the kid friendly Seussical the Musical to the controversial and edgy RENT, the students are always involved in either the cast or crew. However, there is a time in the fall where students can stand in the spotlight in directing, producing, lighting design, set design, etc. That is the THS annual fall play. In the past two years, we have performed ALMOST, MAINE (one of the most produced high school plays) and premiered the play GAME NIGHT, but this year took a dark turn. The 2014 fall play is...
THE CRUCIBLE by Arthur Miller 

The FB event is here: https://www.facebook.com/events/1563890863823908/?sid_reminder=1947465676700516352
"Based on historical people and real events, this drama is a searing portrait of a community engulfed by hysteria. In the rigid theocracy of Salem, rumors that women are practicing witchcraft spark the town's worst fears and suspicions; and when a young, unstable girl accuses Elizabeth Proctor of being a witch, self-righteous church leaders and townspeople insist that Elizabeth be brought to trial."

November 14th and 15th at 8pm at Trumbull High School. Tickets are $5 and sold only at the door.

The Production staff is as follows:
Director: Matt Buckwald 
Assistant Director/Dramaturg: Lauren Chase 
Stage Manager: Rachel Tropp 
Prop Masters: Beth Bolton and Lahari Kota 
Costume Design: Amanda Lee 
Sound Design: Nick Lozinak
Lighting Design: Jess Rende
Set Design: Jess Rende and Cammy Kimball

The Cast:
John Proctor- Dylan Shepard
Elizabeth Proctor- Katherine Griffin (who is on our Youth Board)
Abigail Williams- Maeve Hegley
Mary Warren- Helen Samoskevich
Betty Parris- Taylor Berlin
Tituba- Madie Davids
Reverend Parris- Jack Leonard
Reverend Hale- Michael Lepore
Deputy Governor Danforth- Colin McLevy
Judge Hawthorne- R.J. Hawkins
Giles Corey- Jason Keane
Thomas Putnam- Andrew Scott
Ann Putnam- Emily Ramsey
Mercy Lewis- Victoria Carter
Rebecca Nurse- Tina DeLucia
Susanna Walcott- Martha Hegley
Sarah Good- Lindsey McMorris
Francis Nurse- Armand Perez
Hopkins- Juliana Verrelli
Ezekiel Cheever- Kyle Marlin
Willard Hemok- Jordan Buckman
Martha Corey- Franchesca Almonte
Townsperson- Sofia Santos

The trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aAKLo8D2e80

-Nathan Clift, 17
President of the Youth Board

Are you ready to head "Into the Woods"?

Stephen Sondheim and James Lapine created a Tony Award winning musical in 1987 called INTO THE WOODS. This musical stole the Best Score and Best Book of a Musical Tony Awards from the Phantom of the Opera. After 27 years, the musical gets a big screen treatment. The trailer is below (email viewers click here)

Now, I know what your thinking: Disney will do whatever they want to in order to keep their cookie-cutter image. I am proud to tell you that is not the case. Sondheim, Lapine, and director Rob Marshall have done everything in their power to keep the movie as true as the original show. That does include: the innuendos during "Hello Little Girl", all of "Any Moment", and etc. The movie is also said to have surreal elements and an extremely dark feel. 

A change I like is that "On the Steps of the Palace" takes place as Cinderella is leaving the ball. Lyrics are changed, but it's gonna be cool. Of course, I will pass no judgments until I actually see this movie (which releases in 2 months).

The movie is released on Christmas Day. I know I'll be seeing it... will you?

The screenplay is by James Lapine (Libbretist of INTO THE WOODS, PASSION, FALSETTOS), Music and Lyrics by Stephen Sondhiem (Composer of INTO THE WOODS, SWEENEY TODD, A LITTLE NIGHT MUSIC), and directed by Rob Marshall (also director of CHICAGO). The cast includes (but not limited to) Meryl Streep as The Witch, Anna Kendrick as Cinderella, Emily Blunt as The Baker's Wife, James Corrdin as The Baker, Chris Pine as Cinderella's Prince, Lilla Crawford as Little Red Riding Hood and Johnny Depp as The Wolf.  

-Nathan Clift, 17, Trumbull High School

President of the NPT Youth Board

Calling all Auditioners! Last Callfor "So Ya Wanna Be A Broadway Star"

Five days until SO YA WANNA BE A BROADWAY STAR Audition Event!!!

We have tons of great singers from ages 8-adult, from Greenwich to Hartford prepping their voices and getting into “audition-mode”.

 

See the clip of our short interview on Channel 12 here! 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xs37yEch0U0&feature=youtu.be

 

Entertainment and Broadway pros (five judges) will hear them and give the singers constructive feedback to help them with their college, high school, theatre, and yes, Broadway auditions and YOU can watch and learn in the audience!

 

“What a great thing this was for the participants in that they were getting advice on how to improve themselves”, said a father of one of the contestants last year who sat in the audience and learned along with everyone else.

 

The singing begins at 4:30pm with judges listed on our event page:http://www.nptheatre.org/nptevents/broadwaystar-2/

 

The audience may watch the entire process!  “Usually we only get ‘thank you’ after and audition and our moms and dads don’t get to watch at all” –Kelsey, former participant.  Audience members pay only $15 (cash or checks) at the door.

 

Prizes this year include a chance for the winners to be featured in a concert the following night for Bridgeport Rescue Mission (at St. Anthony's) with NPT’s Broadway stars as well being featured in the Holiday show at The Fairfield Theatre Company.

Also included are professional photography sessions, style consultations, show-business coaching, and massage sessions!   NPT is always keeping its eye out for talent for our many other events as well!

 

A panel discussion by our Pro judges will follow the audition for all participants and audience members. 

There are only a few more spots for contestants so please preregister now at our event page so you don't miss out! 

 

This event is part of NPT’s (a non profit 501c3) mentoring mission.  www.nptheatre.org

RENT Thrives at Curtain Call

On October 11th, my family and I got tickets to see Curtain Call's production Jonathan Larson's RENT. The show had a five weekend run and was sold out a majority of the shows, closing night included. The original Broadway musical ran for 12 years on Broadway, but after having an Off-Broadway run and a run at NYMF in 1994 (20 years ago). I'll include some of the Curtain Call Executive Director's Welcome Letter, for it basically said every reason why I love this musical:
"And today, eight years after this landmark musical finished its original run, the topics are still controversial; the language is still a bit blue; and the message is still so important: that in the midst of difficult circumstance, you can choose love, you can choose life, you can embrace the community, you can choose kindness."

Poster from the Broadway Run of RENT

At Curtain Call, the principal cast was:
Ben McCormack as Roger Davis
Richard Cummings as Mark Cohen
Nic Anthony Calabro as Tom Collins
Kevin Thompson as Benjamin Coffin III
Saige Bryan as Joanne Jefferson
Rachel Schulte as Maureen Johnson
Demerre Files as Angel Dumott Shunard

The production was directed and choreographed by Debra Lee Failla and musical directed by Peter Randazzo.

This production was not your average production. Their set was very different from many productions, though it had a similar essence. The blocking was unique, and the choreography was all original. In some ways, it worked. In other ways, it didn't. Something I enjoyed was "Over the Moon". Maureen (singing lead) had 4 back up singers, each with props and photos to help move the story (video of RENT: Live on Broadway's "Over the Moon is Here, if you cannot view it by email)

I also liked how they included everyone in the choreography for "Santa Fe", when traditionally it would be 4 or 5 dancers. I also loved the various Mimi and Benny interjections throughout Act 1. Contrasting, Mimi and Roger's chemistry was on point. Adding on, I loved how natural the blocking seemed to be.

Onto something I didn't like... the opening.

Traditionally, you would have the ensemble come out onto the stage before Mark begins the show. This production didn't. Instead, the director just had Mark walk on and begin the show. It was a unique choice, but I lost the feel of "okay, here we go". It just gave off an odd feel.

Angel and Collins, as well as Maureen and Joanne, could have had better chemistry.

The show itself was (overall) great. The message was the same, and I got goosebumps in spots where I never got them before. I laughed, I got sad, I had a great time.

If you have a chance to see RENT anywhere, or even another show at Curtain Call, do it. You won't regret it.

"Thank you Jonathan Larson!"- that guy after the first performance of RENT on Broadway (which I yelled during bows of Curtain Call's production)
-Nathan Clift, 17, Trumbull High School
President of the Youth Board

The Magic of Musicals: How It Is In Our Life

"Let it Go" won the Academy Award for Best Original Song in this years Academy Awards. The song was written by musical theater composer Bobby Lopez and his wife, Kristen Anderson-Lopez. It was sung by the "wickedly talented" Idina Menzel, who originated the roles of Maureen Johnson (RENT) and Elphaba (WICKED). Since then, it has become a favorite by so many people and also annoyed by many others. 

This year, Trumbull High School is performing HELLO, DOLLY for their 2015 spring musical. The movie starred Broadway legend Barbara Streisand in the title role. She has also been lucky to have had a #1 album every decade for the past 60 years. She began on Broadway, most well known for her role as Fanny Brice in the musical FUNNY GIRL. 

 Think about music today. Most songs ("Wrecking Ball", "Rolling in the Deep", etc) reflect what you are thinking. Musical Theatre uses songs to help move the story and express the emotion.  As choreographer Bob Fosse once said, (something along the lines of) you can only sing when you cannot express how you feel with words alone. 

Since most of you have seen FROZEN, let's use that example. Most of the songs help move the story ("Do You Wanna Build a Snowman?", "In Summer"), but some help express the emotions someone is feeling ("For the First Time in Forever", "Let it Go", "For the First Time in Forever- Reprise"). Song must be motivated in order to sing. Once again, I will connect this with real life.

CD Case for FROZEN

What point am I making? More often then not, people think of Broadway as "jazz squares" and "frilly costumes" and whatever. Well, not even just Broadway, but musical theater in general. Musical Theater has grown so much since (what most historians believe to have been the first musical) The Black Crook. Okay, so maybe you weren't alive in the 1800s, but try comparing the musical styling of RENT to the music of WEST SIDE STORY, or IF/THEN to SOUND OF MUSIC. Chances are, there are none. Why? We try to get more people to see a show. 

If anyone is doing theatre, then they want to tell stories. They want to spread messages around and most of the time, it is done in a brilliant way. We want to entertain! 

Therefore, if it is something you love doing, then don't stop. The journey is long and heck, who knows if you'll make it big. The point is that you have done something great for many people. I mean, what if Idina Menzel, Patti LuPone, Audra McDonald, Barbara Streisand, Jeremy Jordan, Aaron Tveit, and many others didn't do what they loved to do? Chances are: Frozen wouldn't have been as musically wonderful as it was, Evita would be different, we wouldn't have broken a world record this year at the Tony Awards, classic movies wouldn't have been the same/ Yentle wouldn't have been made, etc (I think you get my point). 

Bottom  Line: If you make it, great! If not, don't give up! Chances are you will eventually do something that affects the world. 

More examples:
The new sitcom "Selfie" is based off of the musical MY FAIR LADY
Kristin Chenowith is currently rehearsing for a one night only concert oratorio called I AM HARVEY MILK
Lea Michelle (Rachel Berry on Glee) starred in Spring Awakening in 2007
Jonathan Larson wrote RENT and TICK TICK... BOOM when he was a struggling artist in NYC.
"Seasons of Love" is one of the most popular songs from his masterpiece, RENT
Nathan Lane (who has too many Broadway credits) was Timon in the film LION KING
Hugh Jackman (Wolverine) got his start in Musical Theatre (like THE BOY FROM OZ)
Julie Andrews was offered the role of Mary Poppins when she was in CAMELOT on Broadway.

-Nathan Clift, 17, Trumbull High School
President of the Youth Board

Want to know if you're "the Greatest Star"? Here's how!

The New Paradigm Theatre is proud to announce their 3rd "So Ya Wanna Be a Broadway Star" Competition! 

It's an exciting evening of performances in front of Broadway and entertainment professionals that will entertain and educate.

Where: St. Anthony’s Church 149 Pine Creek Road, Fairfield, CTWhen: October 24th Friday, 5:00-7:30pm

Three age categories of singers will perform for Broadway and entertainment professionals/judges and receive constructive feedback to further their careers as well as exciting prizes for those chosen to perform with NPT the following night.

Age Categories:  8-12 years old          13-17 years old          18 years and older

Flyer for the Event

The night’s professional accompanist will be Kenneth Gartman! His theatre credits include  Inner Voices III: Arlington (Off-Broadway), Broadcast (NMTC2013), The Toy Maker (NMTC2012), Cabaret/Concerts. Performer credits include Kenneth Gartman… Not Like the Other Cavemen, National Tour of The Music Man, Side by Side by Sondheim LIVE! (BBC Broadcast). More at KennethGartman.com!

The format of the "competition" is nearly identical to any audition process you will go through (from talent shows to Broadway). The difference? You will receive feedback to help you improve on your future auditions and performances. You can relax: you don't need to sound like Idina Menzel to attend. 

Awards include being featured in an upcoming New Paradigm Theatre (NPT) production with Broadway stars on October 25th (St. Anthony’s benefit) and December 10th (NPT Holiday Show at the Fairfield Theatre Company) as well as a photo session for headshots, makeup/hair and clothing consultation, business of theatre consultations, and much more.

Past winners have also been featured in appearances following the competition on TV and stage. “The chance to sing in front of Broadway decision makers and to network with them was invaluable.” -Cidalia Alves 2012 winner.

Mentoring is a large component of NPT’s mission and includes our Youth Board of Directors: an “active learning” partnership with ItsRelevant.com, After School at the Klein, our college intern program, and more.

Confirmed judge for this year’s competition:

1.  Paul Bogaev: a multi award-winning music director, arranger, conductor, and composer. He received his first Grammy for Elton John and Tim Rice’s Aida, for which he produced, orchestrated and conducted the Tony award-winning score. He was also music director on Broadway for Tarzan, Bombay Dreams (Tony nomination for best orchestrations), Sunset Boulevard, Aspects of Love, Chess, Les Miserables, Starlight Express, Cats and The Music of Andrew Lloyd Weber with Michael Crawford and Sarah Brightman. In addition, he was brought in to “doctor” Spider-Man, working with Bono and The Edge to improve the musical performance and sound. Paul’s second Grammy was as Executive Producer of the soundtrack of the Oscar-winning film musical, Chicago. His other film musicals include NINE, Across the Universe, Dreamgirls, and the animated Lion King, Tarzan, Mulan, and Emperor’s New Groove.

2. Neil Fuentes: The Singing Chef! Neil has solidified himself as a Connecticut power talent in both the entertainment and culinary world. “The Sensational Singing Chef”, airing on Connecticut Style on WTNH Television in New Haven, CT since 2009, continues to be a highly rated show for the network, garnering numerous awards and a cult-like following.

3.  David Friedman: After spending several years conducting musicals on Broadway, includingGrease, Joseph & The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, and Song and Dance, David went to Hollywood where he was the conductor and vocal arranger on such Disney classics as Beauty & The Beast, Aladdin,Pocahontas, and The Hunchback of Notre Dame. This led to David writing music and lyrics for Disney’s Aladdin and the King of Thieves, scoring three animated television series (Happy Ness, Sky Dancers andDragon Flyz) and the film Trick, and a 13-year stint as music supervisor and vocal arranger of Broadway’s Beauty & The Beast. Take a look at more about him here!

4. Wendy Lesniak: Broadway: Love is a Time of Day (u/s Sandy Duncan), Off-B’way:  Barefoot in the Park, The Private Ear, Pins and Needles, What’s a Nice Country Like You…, B’way try-out:  A Barrelful of Pennies, Regional and Stock:  Private Lives (w. Fannie Flagg), George M(w. Mickey Rooney), Pajama Game, Cactus Flower, The Boyfriend, Bye Bye Birdie, Painting Churches, Blithe Spirit, The Odd Couple, Absurd Person Singular and Diana of Dobson’s(Boston Post Rd Stage Co.), Portrait of a Madonna.  T.V.:  Ed(Mrs. Cheswick).  Wendy has enjoyed a notable career in T.V. and radio commercials and is a proud member of A.E.A. S.A.G./A.F.T.R.A. and TAW.

REGISTER NOW because auditions spaces are filling up! You will also get to watch the process and learn from the comments given to others as this event is meant to be educational as well. Do not worry if you are very new to this process.  We are hoping you will learn by doing! 

Click here to register:  http://www.nptheatre.org/nptevents/broadwaystar-2/

-The New Paradigm Theatre Company's Youth Board

"Let There Be"... A Theater Organization in trouble?

When a sports team gets cancelled, there are riots in the streets(maybe not that, but parents complain, many meetings happen and then the sports team gets rebooted). However, it seems like the arts are the first things to be cut out of society these days. It is terrible (considering how the ancient Greeks would create plays to welcome the god Dionysus, and you can read more here) and it affects many people. It seems that Trumbull (home town of the famous "Justice for RENT" movement in 2013) faces yet another issue.

TYA (Trumbull Youth Association) has performed an annual summer musical for 45 years. This year, the production staff chose to perform the Stephen Schwartz musical, CHILDREN OF EDEN. The show is loosely based off of the book of Genisus and brings out the themes of love, second chances, responsibilities, and so many more themes and messages. However, could this be the last summer musical for TYA?

The cast of Children of Eden during "The Return of the Animals" Scene in Act Two

About a half hour before the first Sunday show of CHILDREN OF EDEN, one of the producers informed the cast that ticket sales are not doing well. If they do not improve, there may not be a show for 2015.

The fact that the musical has never been performed on Broadway does seem to have some impact on it. Other community theaters are performing Shrek and Les Miserables, so why would they see a "biblical show"?

IT'S NOT!

Yes, the story in Act One is Adam, Eve, Cain and Abel. Yes, Act Two is the story of Noah and the Flood. Yes, there is God. However, these are simply stories. Stories that Stephen Schwartz felt can be placed into a musical setting. Every musical can have a message. This one is perfectly summed up in the final song of the show, "In The Beginning" with the lyrics: "Our hands can choose to drop the knife. Our hearts can choose to stop the hating... And pray we're wiser than we were in the beginning.".

Overall, isn't that what theater means? Doesn't it reflect life? With everything that has happened these past few years, this show just highlights exactly what humanity needed to do to be perfect. It also shows that even when this world was made, people were made and even God made mistakes. Sure, it doesn't have someone who is a big green ogre that learns to love, or a bunch of school boys trying to save France. It isn't the most popular show, but it 100% is a brilliant show.

The arts might not mean much to the average American, but there are many theater kids being denied the right to express. If Trumbull losses TYA, I don't know what to do. This organization has become close and dear to my heart over the 5 years I have been a part of it. I do not want to see what will happen if this nightmare becomes a reality.

To go to the official Facebook page, click here
To buy tickets to TYA's Children of Eden (3 shows left), click here

-Nathan Clift
17 Year Old, Incoming Senior at Trumbull High School
President of the NPT Youth Board

68th Annual Tony Awards!

What a night of celebrating theater! Host Hugh Jackman brought a new life to the Tony Awards this year. He could barely contain his excitement, with all of the bouncing for 4 minutes straight through. Seriosuly, do professional Broadway performers just learn to not need air as they are performing? I will never know. Anyways, back to the Tony Awards. The winners are:

Best Performance By a Featured Actor in a Play: Mark Rylance in TWELFTH NIGHT
Best Performance by a Featured Actress in a Musical: Lena Hall in HEDWIG AND THE ANGRY INCH
Sound Design of a Play: LADY DAY
Sound Design of a Musical: BEAUTIFUL
Direction of a Musical: Darko Tresnjak for GENTLEMEN'S GUIDE TO LOVE AND MURDER
Direction of a Play: Kenny Leon for A RAISIN IN THE SUN
Best Featured Actor in a Musical: James Monroe Iglehark in ALADDIN
Scenic Design of a Musical: ROCKY
Scenic Design of a Play: ACT ONE
Best Leading Actress in a Play: Audra McDonald in LADY DAY
Best Leading Actor in a Play: Bryan Cranston in ALL THE WAY
Best Play: ALL THE WAY
Best Book of a Musical: GENTLEMEN'S GUIDE TO LOVE AND MURDER
Best Score: BRIDGES OF MADISON COUNTY
Best Revival of a Play: A RAISIN IN THE SUN
Best Choreography: AFTER MIDNIGHT
Best Orchestrations: BRIDGES OF MADISON COUNTY
Best Leading Actor in a Musical: Neil Patrick Harris
Outstanding Costume Design in a Play: TWELFTH NIGHT
Outstanding Costume Design in a Musical: GENTLEMEN'S GUIDE TO LOVE AND MURDER
Best Revival of a Musical: HEDWIG AND THE ANGRY INCH
Best Lighting Design of a Musical: HEDWIG AND THE ANGRY INCH
Best Lighting Design of a Play: THE GLASS MENAGERIE
Best Leading Actress in a Musical: Jessie Muller for BEAUTIFUL
Best Musical: GENTLEMEN'S GUIDE TO LOVE AND MURDER

Congrats to all of the winners and nominees.

And now... my review of the performances:

After Midnight: Great opening to the show. It had jazz, tap, energy, spirit, and all of the makings to a great show on Broadway.
Les Miserables: Began strong, got weak in the middle, but picked up in the cannon bit before "Tomorrow we'll discover". Had high hopes, and they almost reached it.
Aladdin: Exceeded any standards I gave it. Well done, and made me smile all the way through. It is going to be a classic for years to come.
If/Then: As the only original musical this season, I wanted it to be nominated for Best Musical. However, the music is powerful and Idina Menzel nearly tore the place down with her earth shattering belt. Brava!
Rocky: It seemed we saw the last bit of the show. I was amazed by the fight scene and wonder how they pulled off the fake blood, but I wanted to hear more of the music.
Cabaret: Just how I thought it would be: Amazing and classic.
Gentlemen's Guide: Funny, vocally impressive, and a classic for years to come. Looks incredible!
Hedwig and the Angry Inch: Neil gave a powerhouse performance that brought the house down. Well done!
Violet: The music was lovely, and Sutton's voice gave it that magical quality needed.
Wicked: We last saw Christine Dwyer as the Elphaba standby on a Sunday Spotlight. She is currently playing the role on Broadway. I saw her on Friday and she brought me to tears with "For Good". Extremely moving performance. To 10 more years!
Beautiful: One word can describe it: Beautiful (no pun intended)
Bullets Over Broadway: Male roles that sing, act and tap dance PLUS the 1920s? Can I be in this show? It looks well put together. Great job.

Winner of Best Musical and Other Awards

Special Shoutouts:
"The Music Man updated": Music Man has beautiful music, but it isn't one of my favorite shows, yet it isn't the worst show I have seen. One question: why did they add in hip hop? I didn't like it, and I was shocked. Some things belong in their respective decades. I mean, it would be like "Anything Goes" but adding in bass drops and drums and I don't see it. Just me? I know we have to try things to get people to go to Broadway, but I wasn't happy. It's... I don't even know

Sting performing "The Last Ship": I didn't know if I would like the music, but I fell in love with that song. It has so much meaning and I know others will connect to it.

Finding Neverland: I have a feeling the show will be great, but I couldn't watch it. I forgot to record overtime when I recorded the Tony Awards and I missed the last 20 minutes of the show. I was too busy freaking out. Sorry, but from what I heard it sounded pretty good.

To Audra McDonald: For a record breaking 6th Tony Award! Incredible! Your speech nearly brought me to tears.

To all reading this: BREAKALEG at whatever art you do!
-Nathan Clift
VP of the NPT Youth Board
17, Trumbull High School

Bullets Over Broadway: A New Classic at the St. James Theatre

About a week ago, a few future Musical Theatre majors at Rider University (myself included) went to see Bullets Over Broadway, a new stage version of the 1994 Woody Allen movie. This production was directed and choreographed by the immensely talented Susan Stroman, and the starring role was played by TV star Zach Braff (Scrubs, Chicken Little, Oz: The Great and Powerful). The show had received 6 Tony Nominations, but I was still a little skeptical about Film/TV stars in Broadway shows (*cough cough Godspell/In The Heights cough Corbin Bleu cough*), and after performing Guys and Dolls at my high school the previous year, I was not overjoyed about another gangster musical.

Bullets Over Broadway depicts a mob leader and his untalented actress floozy girlfriend, as he watches her perform at a nightclub for the umpteenth time. He'll do anything to please her, and when he spots a struggling playwright (Zach Braff) has written a new work, he jumps on the chance to make his dame a star. He offers to produce the whole thing, if he can give his girlfriend the spotlight. Braff extends his search to well-known actors throughout Manhattan, and eventually gets his play up-and-running. Only one thing stands in his way: Olive's bodyguard, Cheech, keeps opening his mouth and making suggestions. The worst part is, they're pretty good ideas. Slowly, Cheech takes over more and more of the script, eventually editing the work into glory.

My criticism of the production stopped when the overture began. The music was unique to the show, but presented a clear reflection of the Roaring 20s. The choreography had Susan Stroman written all over it, with big tap numbers and gangsters performing the second coming of Crapshooter's Ballet. Zach Braff was a hilarious leading man, with a darn good voice to boot. Cheech, played by Nick Cordero, was the true star however, with great vocals, great dancing and great comedic timing, and it was no wonder he has a Tony nomination for the part.

Overall, I was very impressed with the stage adaptation of Woody Allen's 1994 film. It was entirely deserving of the 6 Tony nominations it received, and I hope it continues to have a successful run.

Matt Sweeney, 17
Stamford High
President, NPT Youth Board

You Can't Stop The Beat: Why It's Okay That Broadway is Changing

A couple days ago, I saw that Ken Davenport (Broadway Producer of KINKY BOOTS and others) posted this article (Basically, Clive Davis gives reasoning why he's producing a MY FAIR LADY revival). Within that article, Ken Davenport states that he feels that Clive doesn't know what he is saying (that no great songs have been created since the Oklahoma days).

I understand that everyone's opinion belongs to them, but I agree. Broadway, like any other art, has changed to fit the new generations. If you listen to music from Cole Porter's Anything Goes and then listen to music from Stephen Sondiem's Into the Woods, they sound different, regardless that the songs were made 50 years apart. The same thing goes if you listen to music from Sound of Music to Sister Act, or Little Mermaid to Frozen. Why? The audience is changing.

When RENT came about, it was different than every musical out there. I am willing to say that it was one of the first musicals that shaped Broadway to what it is today.
Why?
Jonathan Larson must have known that by bringing LA BOHEME to Broadway would have sucked: This is the time of rock and roll, pop music, belty sounds. No one would go see an operatic piece of theater. It would be boring.
He had to update it.

And it worked.

You walk down Broadway and you see various types of musicals (Lion King- Disney/ African influence, Kinky Boots- Rock, Phantom- classical w/ operatic influence, Hedwig and the Angry Itch- Rock, Cinderella- classic Rodgers and Hammerstien, Once- Folk sound, etc). If you want to know why shows like these work, all you need to do is listen to today's music:
Mumford and Sons- Folk sound in some songs
One Direction- Pop
Fun. - Rock/ Pop

So why can't theater change if music is changing? I'm sure that we would have more Oklahoma style shows if we heard classical music on the radio.

So I now bring you to musicals of today:
There are a lot more musicals created this year and that means more nominees for the Tony Awards.
One of the musicals that has had the MOST mixed reviews was IF/THEN.

Members of the cast of IF/THEN

IF/THEN follows the story of Elizabeth (Idina Menzel), and her life if she decides to go by Beth or Liz (I think those are the two). The musical has been called hard to follow (I wouldn't know, I have yet to see it). From what I heard of the music, it is great! Idina Menzel is great, and I don't know why it is getting so many mixed reviews. Then I read an article that compared it to another great show: Company

DVD of the Broadway Revival of Company (Which the NPT's Kristin Huffman played Sarah in)

Both shows follow the lives of one person and their friends. But that is where the similarities kind of end. But this article basically said to not give up on the musical IF/THEN, because Company (which was different for its time) was called the same thing: confusing to follow.
_______________________________________________________________________

So, what point am I trying to make?

Theater is an art. Art changes depending on the audience. That is apparent in every style: dance, song, theater, paintings, etc. So it isn't new that theater is changing.

Also, good luck to all those on Broadway! Tony Nominations get announced on Tuesday! Can't wait!

-Nathan Clift
16 years old
VP of the NPT Youth Board.

PS. This is the 50th Blog Post for BREAKALEG.

Painting Broadway Blue

This past weekend I had the privilege of seeing Blue Man Group in New York City at the Astor Place Theatre. My first impression was one of curiosity because of the size of the theatre on Lafayette Street. The auditorium seemed to barely fit 800 people. When I took my seat in the second row of the mezzanine, I realized that what the theatre was was not small, but intimate. Boy, was I in for such a treat.

The show began with a series of shout outs to people in the audience. We all joined in an ill-tuned speaking of “Happy Birthday” to someone named Anne, a congratulations to a Bronze-medal Olympic diver and a friendly welcome to an average man named Richard who was so conveniently sitting in the seat in front of me. I enjoyed the back of your head, Richard.

Once the house lights were lowered, excitement bubbled up inside me. A projection of a silhouetted blue man playing drums was the first glimpse of the show we got. Eventually, the projection revealed two more silhouettes and we were head first into the performance.

As the show progressed, many topics of today were made into sketches: the ever-expanding size of iPhones and tablets, the plumbing under our houses and the now technologically-obsessed youth.

My favorite aspect of the show is that it calls for audience participation. Rather than sitting through a six-hour, three-intermission opera at the Met, Blue Man Group actually makes the audience the focal point of a good majority of the show by climbing over their heads, feeding them Twinkies and painting with them. The audience is so much a part of the show that during curtain call, where normally the performers gesture towards the lighting booth, band and any other stagehand in the general area, the three blue men gestured towards the audience, not as thanks, but as recognition.

Speaking of lighting and music, both were jaw-droppers. The band was so precise and engaging that sometimes I found myself staring at the red-glow of drumsticks rather than the shenanigans onstage. The lighting was fabulous, but is not for everyone. Strobe lights and spotlights danced around the tiny theatre, making you feel like you were in disco ball.

Though these two aspects of the show were flashy and enticing, you never lost interest in the main act. The blue men that danced around stage were expressionless in the face, but were so incredible in moving their eyes and body that they captivated every corner of the auditorium and filled it with laughter.

There was never a moment that I found dull nor childish, even though the toddler in the row behind me laughed his face off the whole time. Blue Man Group is tasteful and fun for the whole family.

If ever in a situation where you can see the Blue Man Group, I highly recommend it. They have numerous locations including NYC, Boston, Los Angeles and several cruise lines. This is a show for people of all ages, shapes, sizes and colors (especially the blue-skinned)!



Katherine Griffin
NPT Youth Board Member
Trumbull High School '16