Showing posts with label seattle musical theatre. Show all posts
Showing posts with label seattle musical theatre. Show all posts

Designers, technicians and run crew needed for SMT's Rock of Ages

Friday, January 10, 2020

Seattle Musical Theatre, continuing its move to Shoreline Center, is now seeking designers, technicians and run crew for its production of “Rock of Ages,” opening February 7, 2020 at the Shoreline Center. 

Sound designer, engineer (wireless headsets), and board operator (Yamaha M7CL); also lighting designer, master electrician, costumer, choreographer and light board operator (ION).

Built around classic rock songs from the 1980s, the show features songs from Styx, Journey, Bon Jovi, Pat Benatar, Twisted Sister, Steve Perry, Poison and Europe, among other well-known rock bands.

Email for more information: secretary@seattlemusicaltheatre.org



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Seattle Musical Theatre: Miracle on 34th Street this weekend

Friday, December 27, 2019


Miracle on 34th Street - December 27 - 28 - 29, 2019
Seattle Musical Theatre
now in Shoreline


This heart-warming musical is pure family entertainment and a perfect activity for the lull between Christmas and New Year's.

Evening shows at 7:30pm on Friday and Saturday December 27, 28 and matinees at 2:00pm on Saturday and Sunday Dec 28. 29.

Based on the beloved 1947 film, this 1963 Broadway hit by Meredith Wilson, creator of “Music Man,” comes to life on stage in this new holiday production.

Could Macy's Santa Claus, who calls himself Kris Kringle, be the real thing? Joy and belief vie with cynicism in this uplifting production, now in its last weekend in Shoreline.

The Seattle Musical Theatre is now based in Shoreline, performing in the auditorium at the far north end of the Shoreline Center (by the tennis courts). 18560 1st Ave NE.

TICKETS




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Miracle on 34th Street this weekend

Thursday, December 19, 2019

Miracle on 34th Street by the Seattle Musical Theatre, plays this weekend in Shoreline at the Shoreline Center Auditorium.

Performances are Friday and Saturday evenings with a Sunday matinee.

Based on the beloved 1947 film, this 1963 Broadway hit by Meredith Wilson, creator of Music Man, comes to life on stage in this new holiday production.

Filled with such beloved songs as It's Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas, it finally answers the question: Is Kris Kringle really Santa Claus?

This heart-warming musical is pure family entertainment and the perfect present to fill everyone's stocking.

TICKETS

Shoreline Center Auditorium (north end of complex)
18560 1st Ave NE, Shoreline 98155.



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Single tickets now on sale for SMT's Miracle on 34th Street at the Shoreline Center

Saturday, November 30, 2019

Miracle on 34th Street 
December 19 - 29, 2019
Shoreline Center Auditorium

Based on the beloved 1947 film, this 1963 Broadway hit by Meredith Wilson, creator of “Music Man,” comes to life on stage in this new holiday production. 

Filled with such beloved songs as “Pinecones and Hollyberries,” “It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas,” and finally answering the question: Is Kris Kringle really Santa Claus? 

This heart-warming musical is pure family entertainment and the perfect present to fill everyone’s stocking.

Shoreline Center (auditorium) at the north end of the complex, 18560 1st Ave NE, Shoreline.




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Seattle Musical Theatre returns to the Shoreline Center with Miracle on 34th Street

Monday, November 18, 2019


SMT starts new season with new artistic director in new venue


It’s a season of change at Seattle Musical Theatre. After fourteen years at Magnuson Park, the company is moving back to the Shoreline Center.

THE SEASON

For the 42rd season, SMT will stage three musicals, one classic and two contemporary.

2019-2020 Season


Miracle on 34th Street - December 19 to 29, 2019

Based on the beloved 1947 film, this 1963 Broadway hit by Meredith Wilson, creator of “Music Man,” comes to life on stage in this new holiday production.

Filled with such beloved songs as “Pinecones and Hollyberries,” “It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas,” and finally answering the question: “Is Kris Kringle really Santa Claus?” this heart-warming musical is pure family entertainment and the perfect present to fill everyone’s stocking.

Evening shows at 7:30pm on December 19, 20, 21, 26, 27, 28 and matinees at 2:00pm on Dec 22, 28 and 29.


Rock of Ages - February 7 to March 1, 2020

ROCK OF AGES is a rock musical in which a small town girl and a city boy meet (it’s love at first sight) on the Sunset Strip in 1987 while pursuing their Hollywood dreams. The glam metal/heavy metal music of the 80’s saves a once famous club, their budding romance, a fading rock star and old dreams.

Built around classic rock songs from the 1980s, the show features songs from Styx, Journey, Bon Jovi, Pat Benatar, Twisted Sister, Steve Perry, Poison and Europe, among other well-known rock bands. Rock out, head bang, and sing along with this electric production.

Evening performances at 7:30pm on Feb 7, 8, 14, 15, 21, 22, 27, 28, 29 and matinees at 2:00pm on Feb 9, 16, 23 and March 1.


In the Heights - April 17 to May 3, 2020

IN THE HEIGHTS (book by Quiara AlegrĂ­a Hudes and music and lyrics by “Hamilton” creator Lin-Manuel Miranda) explores three days in the characters’ lives in the New York City Latino neighborhood of Washington Heights. Through the infectious music of hip-hop, salsa, merengue and soul music, the story brings to vibrant life the joys, sorrows, struggles, successes, and the ultimate perseverance that comes with being a family, a neighborhood, a community. Experience life: In the Heights.

Evening performances at 7:30pm on April 17, 18, 23, 24, 25, 30 and May 1 and 2. Matinees at 2:00pm on April 19, 25, 26 and May 2, 3.

Artistic Director Phillip Randall

ARTISTIC DIRECTOR: Phillip Randall

Phillip Randall began performing as a professional at the age of 6 and has worked on stages in 48 of the 50 states, as well as in England and Canada as an actor, production manager and director.

He has produced four motion pictures and served as artistic director for five theatre companies, with Seattle Musical Theatre now being the 6th. He was seen as an actor in Seattle in the first four seasons of the Fifth Avenue in the 90s and in the Seattle classic, Angry Housewives, at the Pioneer Square Theatre, before moving to Las Vegas to become the PSM for the Rockettes, followed by the honor of working with Robert Goulet for 12 years.

On stage, he has directed Peter Marshall, Constance Towers, Robert Goulet, Ann Jillian, Leslie Easterbrook, Henry Darrow, Jan Clayton, Patricia Morison, Richard Deacon, Joanna Gleason, Jack Bannon, Oliver Platt, Rutina Wesley, and Matthew Gray Gubler.

He studied at the Pasadena Playhouse, the Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts, the Second City and the Los Angeles Civic Light Opera Musical Theatre Workshop.

VENUE

All performances in the 2019/20 season will be at The Shoreline Center: 18560 1st Ave NE, Shoreline 98155

TICKETS

Tickets are priced $28-$55, youth (ages 0-12 years) tickets are $12. Subscriptions and group sales are available.

Tickets can be purchased from the SMT website at or at the door 30 minutes prior to opening.

SEATTLE MUSICAL THEATRE – HISTORY

Seattle Musical Theatre (SMT) was founded as Seattle Civic Light Opera (CLO) in 1977 by a group of Seattle opera enthusiasts, including Joan Galstaun and Barbara McHargue. With a keen interest in offering theatre to North Seattle communities, they pooled personal resources, located a venue above a music store in Northgate, (Heritage Theatre), and launched CLO’s first season with German composer Johann Strauss’ “The Gypsy Baron”.

By 1978, the venue was running at capacity, so the troupe moved to the 750-seat auditorium in the Jane Addams School in Lake City. In response to audience requests, CLO began including contemporary musicals as part of their 1980 season. CLO remained at the Jane Addams stage through 2002 until the K-8 program moved into the building.

From 2002 to 2004 CLO operated, temporarily, from the Shoreline Center, while pursuing a contract for the theatre in Magnuson Park. It was during this time (2004) that a rebranding campaign for SMT was launched. In 2008 the new Seattle Musical Theatre moved into Building 47 of the Historic Magnuson Park with a 10-year lease.

When the City of Seattle decided to put the building out to bid in late 2018 to attract investors, the SMT board began a venue search that brings the company back to Shoreline Center for the 2019 holiday season.



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Local theater spaces at risk

Monday, May 6, 2019

 In 2014, the Aurora Theatre Company adapted “Into the Woods.”
(Photo courtesy of Scott Francis)


By Nicole Pasia


After four years of bringing musicals to life in Shoreline, the Aurora Theatre Company disbanded last July. Now, Seattle Musical Theatre is at risk of losing its performance space at Magnuson Park as well.

Despite breaking even and garnering support from its audiences in each of their performances, one of Seattle theaters’ most difficult hurdles is maintaining a venue for their productions.

From its first production in 2014, The Aurora Theatre Company was able to provide entertainment through free, outdoor summer musicals at Shoreline City Hall. However, coordinating casting, costumes and lighting, and having to build a set from scratch each year, proved to be a heavy load for the company.

“After four years, it really began to take a toll on our lives,” Artistic Director Scott Francis said in an email. “So we decided that Charlie Brown would be the final production.”

Over its four summers, ATC produced “Into the Woods” (2014), “Fiddler on the Roof” (2015), “Oliver!” (2016), and “You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown” (2017). It also produced one winter musical, “It’s a Wonderful Life” in 2015. According to Francis, its audience grew from 1,400 to 3,500 people in those four years.

Thousands of spectators gathered to watch Aurora Theatre’s 
free, outdoor musicals.
Photo by Steven H. Robinson


While each production was free to the public, ATC was able to break even on its $25,000 budget from audience donations. With more support from local Shoreline businesses, ATC might have been able to continue operating. However, the gap between what was needed and what was available was too much.

The company also lost a major supporter when former Shoreline Economic Development Director Dan Eernissee relocated to Everett. Eernissee ensured the city was supportive of the company and its productions.

“The city plays a supporting role to its citizens,” Eernissee said. “Our job as a city is to facility the support of our residents doing great things.”

Francis and other company members worked to locate a permanent space for the Aurora Theatre Company, but were unsuccessful. Many of the local school and church spaces could not accommodate the company for multiple, consecutive weeks needed for performances, or were too expensive to rent.

“My goal had been to make Aurora Theatre Company Shoreline's year-round professional theatre company,” Francis said. “But without the support of major Shoreline businesses and lack of a space to perform, it appears that Shoreline is just not ready for that to happen.”

After 10 years at its historic Magnuson Park venue, Seattle Musical Theatre may also soon need to close its doors. 

SMT crew, cast, and volunteers strike the set of “Mamma Mia” after closing on April 14. The company’s next show, “Best Little Whorehouse in Texas,” begins showing in May. 
(Photo by Nicole Pasia)

Building 47, which houses SMT and the Magnuson Community Center, is scheduled for renovation in 2020. SMT secretary Tom Ansart said that Seattle Parks and Recreation has decided not to renew the theatre’s lease for another year. Instead, Parks and Recreation has issued a request for proposals, where other theatre companies can propose their plans to make use of the space for rent.

Tenants of Building 47 need to meet three requirements: 1) provide $39,000 of public benefits each year (e.g. show tickets for school auctions, 2) actively use the space 48 weeks a year (auditions, rehearsals, performances), and 3) make an effort to raise up to $5 million to renovate the space within the first 10 years.

SMT was able to meet the first two requirements of its lease, but it struggled to meet the third, and Parks and Recreation subsequently terminated their agreement, according to Ansart.

“[Parks and Recreation] has invited us to apply at the same time,” Ansart said. “But you’d have to think, if they wanted us to stay, they wouldn’t have terminated our lease.”

Meanwhile, on April 14, a full house sang along to ABBA’s iconic “Dancing Queen” as SMT closed its production of “Mamma Mia.”

SMT, formerly known as Seattle Civic Light Opera, was founded in 1977 and is now performing its 41st season. Patrons have supported the company for years, and some even for decades. For the performers and directing staff, this company gives them a chance to bond with each other, and to gain valuable experience for their careers.

“At a certain point you just have to decide,” Lisa Mandelkorn said, who played Donna in “Mamma Mia.” “As a community, as a society, is [theater] something that’s important you? And it is. It has to be.”

 The cast of SMT’s 2019 production of “Mamma Mia” spent several weeks rehearsing together, and formed a close bond.(Photo by Nicole Pasia)


SMT’s current lease lasts until September, and they have until then to either find a new space or locate funding to support their proposal of transforming Building 47 into a performing arts center.

“That’s our proposal,” Ansart said. “To establish a performing arts center here at Magnuson Park. That’s a big vision, but it’s certainly a happier one than packing up and leaving.”



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Seattle Musical Theatre presents Elton John and Tim Rice's Aida

Saturday, January 19, 2019


A timeless story of forbidden love...


Elton John and Tim Rice's Aida

Based on Verdi’s beloved 19th century opera, Elton John and Tim Rice’s Aida is a timeless story of forbidden love set on the banks of the Nile. 

Featuring a Tony and Grammy award-winning score, Troy Wageman directs the talented local cast through rousing rock numbers and heart-wrenching ballads.

Running for 13 performances only
February 8-24


Seattle Musical Theatre at Magnuson Park, 7120 62nd Ave NE, Seattle, (206) 363-2809



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Five more chances to see Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat

Monday, December 10, 2018

For many, seeing a live production is a holiday tradition. Here's one you might have overlooked.

The Seattle Musical Theatre has been producing quality musicals for 80 years.

They were previously known as Civic Light Opera and changed their name when they realized they were more about musicals than opera.

They are located in a stand-alone building in Magnuson Park, with plenty of free parking. 

Magnuson Park, 7120 62nd Ave NE, Seattle 98115.

The holiday production this year is Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat with lyrics by Tim Rice and music by Andrew Lloyd Webber.

It's based on the old testament story of Joseph and his jealous brothers. It is family friendly (in spite of what his brothers do to him). It is unusual in that it has only a few lines of dialog - the music carries the story.

Remaining performance dates:

Thu Dec 13, 2018 7:30 PM
Fri Dec 14, 2018 7:30 PM
Sat Dec 15, 2018 2:00 PM
Sat Dec 15, 2018 7:30 PM
Sun Dec 16, 2018 2:00 PM

Tickets are available online



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Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat at SMT for the holidays

Thursday, November 15, 2018


Direct from the biblical land of Canaan!

It’s Joseph – the favorite son of Jacob – who is blessed with vivid dreams that foretell the future. 

Follow along on his technicolor journey that includes slavery, betrayal, revelation and a hilarious Elvis-like Pharaoh.

The powerhouse musical duo of Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice bring a multitude of musical genres to the stage, from country-western and calypso to pop and rock 'n roll. 

Director Jeff Orton promises a wild energetic production chock full of outlandish costumes, wacky characters and a cartoon-like Canaan. Foot-tapping, hand-clapping fun for the whole family.

Running November 30 - December 16 at Seattle Musical Theatre at Magnuson Park 7120 62nd Ave NE, Seattle 98115. Phone 206-363-2809

Join us for a timeless story for the holiday season!




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You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown opens May 25 at Seattle Musical Theatre

Wednesday, May 2, 2018


Seattle Musical Theatre is proud to present You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown, May 25 – June 17, 2018.

“Money? Who cares about money? This is art you blockhead!”

Charles Schulz’s beloved comic comes to life in Clark Gesner’s classic musical, You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown. Charlie Brown, Lucy, Linus, Sally, Schroeder, and a beagle named Snoopy navigate the joys and pitfalls of childhood: chaotic baseball games, unrequited valentines, World War One flying beagles, and five cent psychiatry.

When the play was first staged on March 7, 1967, at Theatre 80 in New York City, there was no real script. The six young actors were armed mostly with ten songs and ten years' worth of cartoons by "Peanuts" creator, Charles M. Schulz.

Clark Gesner, who created the music and lyrics for the play, noted that the success of the play could be largely attributed to Schulz's "immensely human view of the world and his special ability to say it for all of us."

The story of the play itself is told through a series of vignettes that mimic the four-panel format used by the original cartoon strip, "Peanuts." This panel format is supplemented with longer passages that are vaguely reminiscent of Shakespearean soliloquies and by musical interludes.

You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown is thoughtful, funny, and humane, perfect for audiences of all ages.

Directed by Tyrone Brown. Starring the Peanuts Gang: Charlie Brown, Lucy and Linus van Pelt, Schroeder, Sally Brown, Patty, and Snoopy

Seattle Musical Theatre at Magnuson Park 7120 62nd Ave NE Seattle, WA 98115



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Theater review: The Producers at Seattle Musical Theatre

Saturday, April 7, 2018


The Producers

Directed by Alan Wilke
Music Direction by Josh Zimmerman
Apr 06, 2018 - Apr 29, 2018

Review by Jim Anderson

Seattle Musical Theatre’s ‘The Producers’ re-weaves the story first created by Mel Brooks. A master of in-your-face comedy, Brooks created a story about how easily hard luck can turn to corruption in showbiz - and how the human soul can rebound.

Brooks’ idea remains here, but it’s almost swamped by comic sexual innuendo. It’s hard to imagine a wider array of allusions to sex. Perhaps most unexpected, the ‘plain guy gets the gorgeous girl’ by ‘refusing’ sex until after marriage. And gay pride is fully developed.

In between there’s lots of truly funny or even ribald sexual interplay. Despite a distracting first act F-bomb (“who do I have to F*** in this town to get a job!”), a hilarious wardrobe malfunction brought the audience back to a more comedic mood. [Note to director: either keep the wardrobe malfunction, or create something less in the audience’s face about sad desperation.]

The friendship between the two ‘producers’, characters Max Bialystock (Nathaniel Jones) and Leo Bloom (Brad Walker) are brought together with the beautiful, funny and honest ‘Ulla’ (Noel Peterson) to create a warm and hilarious atmosphere whenever any combination of the three interacted.

Roger (Shane Patrick Hoffman) carried himself in a stunning evening gown in a way that made many in the audience envious. And Mr. Hitler’s countenance will be forever altered after Hoffman’s comic and even flirtatious portrayal of the Fuhrer in the play-within-a-play, ‘Springtime for Hitler’.

The future of the Seattle Musical Theatre’s home at the Magnuson Park Community Center looks interesting. Recent discoveries of an old orchestra pit made during the theater’s renovation of the stage are being met with community donations (hint, hint) and larger grants.

One gentleman in the audience who was a WWII veteran remembered fondly the theater’s days of entertaining personnel stationed at the old military base there. One feature he noted has not changed: the seats are still better enjoyed with some kind of cushion, and ‘The Producers’ has you in those seats over two hours.

The theater is an uncluttered reminder of days gone by and a warm reminder for people who served at Sand Point NAS now so long ago.

‘The Producers’ runs through April 29th and tickets are available at www.SeattleMusicalTheatre.org. Director Alan Wilkie revealed that SMT’s next production, ‘Charlie Brown’, is being given an unusual twist. All characters will be presented by actors over age 55. “Charlie Brown’ starts May 25th.

4-9-18 corrected name of musical director

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The Producers opens Apr 6 at Seattle Musical Theatre

Tuesday, March 27, 2018


The Producers

Directed by Alan Wilke
Music Direction by Jon Lutyens
Apr 06, 2018 - Apr 29, 2018

THE PRODUCERS is a laugh-out-loud, outrageous, crowd-pleasing farce that has been a smash hit since its 2001 debut.

Fading Broadway producer Max Bialystock is desperate to get to the top of his profession again, and he finds an unlikely ally in mousy accountant Leo Bloom, who hypothesizes that one could make far more money with a flop of a show than with a hit. 
Together, the two set out to produce the worst musical ever to hit Broadway, with the worst script, the worst director, and the worst cast they can find; the catch is that they will raise two million dollars to finance the show, and they plan to take the money and head to Rio when the show inevitably closes after just one performance. Too bad for Bialystock and Bloom that, against all odds, the show is a total hit! 
With dozens of big and bit parts alike, no shortage of show-stopping musical numbers, and Brooks’ signature humor keeping audiences in stitches, The Producers is definitely far from a flop.

Seattle Musical Theatre is at Magnuson Park - 7400 Sand Point Way NE #101N, Seattle. Ample, free parking by the theater. SMT has been producing musicals almost since its founding, 40 years ago. They have been on the former Navy base since 2004.



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Last week for Ain't Misbehavin' at Seattle Musical Theatre

Sunday, February 25, 2018

Cast of Ain't Misbehavin'
Photo by Jeff Carpenter

Seattle Musical Theatre continues its 40th Anniversary celebration with three-time Tony Award winning musical, Ain't Misbehavin'

1930’s Harlem lives on in this rollicking, swinging, finger-snapping revue that is still considered one of Broadway’s best. Based on an idea by Murray Horwitz and Richard Maltby Jr. and well known for its blockbuster 1978 Broadway production, AIN’T MISBEHAVIN’ showcases numbers that composer and performer, the inimitable Thomas “Fats” Waller (1904-43) wrote or made famous.

SMT is happy to welcome a very talented artistic staff and cast for this production which
includes Teresa Thuman and Savannah Brittan as co-directors, Darrius Willrich as Music Director and Charles Simmons as Choregrapher.

All the favorite songs are being performed including, “Honeysuckle Rose,” T Ain't Nobody's Bizness If I Do," and "Your Feets Too Big.”

All performances at Seattle Musical Theatre, 7120 62nd Ave NE, Seattle 98115, Building 47 inside Magnuson Park.

Remaining performances in the run:
  • Thursday, March 1 at 7:30pm
  • Friday, March 2 at 7:30pm
  • Saturday, March 3 at 7:30pm
  • Sundays, March 4 at 2:00pm

Tickets available online

Tickets are sold by section at $40, $35 and $20 with $5 discounts available for Seniors and
Students.

Seattle Musical Theatre has a concession area with wine and beer for sale.

Stay tuned and Follow

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Review: Seattle Musical Theater's Annie is a presentation not to miss

Tuesday, December 5, 2017

Annie and her dog Sandy
Photo by Jeff Carpenter

Review by Jim Anderson

Seattle Musical Theatre continues its 40th anniversary season with the second of five musicals presented in its home at Magnuson Park.

The musical theater production of Annie runs through December 17th.

Whether you already like Annie, or if you like the intimacy of small theater, or even if you just think people should smile and laugh and think optimistically – at least once in awhile – this is a presentation not to miss. This was my fourth or fifth ‘Annie’ and this is the best I have seen.

Some of that is the venue – intimate and warm and close to the stage and the music, but most of it is music, acting and singing at its best and most natural. On opening night, Faith Young as Annie never missed a beat. A natural for her role, her voice was clear and innocent, and carried a spirit of fun and optimism into every note and line.

For just a moment, opening night ‘whatever’ tried to strike half way into Act One at the presentation of the song, ‘Tomorrow’. Either the orchestra or the actress missed something from the first line of the score – and you must know, the song is really needed to set the optimistic tone of the story. Not – a – problem! The audience may not have even spotted it, because Faith Young quickly found the first note on her own – and nailed it!

What could have become a dark note, instead seemed to inspire everyone on stage and in the orchestra. Every song sounded as vibrant and fresh as the first night and as smooth as if they had performed these songs together for months.

The villains are the most fun.
Photo by Jeff Carpenter

One thing that makes this Annie so appealing are the villains. Director Tyrone Brown clearly sets up each villain to show the actors’ talents – and they shine! Rachel Brinn’s Miss Hannigan starts out ragging on children, establishing her villainy, and each scene after makes this character either pathetic or stunningly funny. You’ll want to see and hear each villain sing and prance again and again. Their light villainous touch will leave you laughing until they finally prance off to jail.

Noel Barbuto as Daddy Warbucks
Photo by Jeff Carpenter


Nestled into the center of all this are the plot’s heroes, Daddy Warbucks, his staff, and the 32nd President of the United States. The best Mr. Warbucks I’ve ever seen comes from the natural presence on stage of actor Noel Barbuto. The worst seats in the house have this giant of a man seemingly just a few feet away, but his engaging talent will have him in your head.

Warbuck’s secretary, Grace (Hayley Gaarde), glowed with an inner kindness that seemed to stun each villain. Michael Byron-Ingersoll, the butler, proves again and again that an actor can multiply the effect of any scene by the nod of a head or the stretch of an arm or a word.

President Roosevelt and his staff
Photo by Jeff Carpenter

Actors portraying the rest of Warbuck’s staff were amazing to watch. Each one lived on stage as if they were the star of the show, filling every moment with something to enjoy. And President Roosevelt came alive in posture, in his mythical and real words, and in what he meant to many who saw hope in dark times. His actor, Ed Robinson, became invisible.

You should note that alternating performances will see one of two actors in the role of Annie, Faith Young and Sydney Beaty. I captured a few moments with each and their parents after the show. Both young ladies have caught the acting bug and each has performed Annie multiple times. Faith Young is a fifth grader whose studies are integrated into the life of an actor. Sydney Beaty is an avid gymnast, diver and actor who is schooled in West Seattle at Our Lady of Guadalupe.

This is the second of five musicals presented at The Seattle Musical Theater at Magnuson Park (7120 62nd Avenue NE). Evening showtimes are every Friday and Saturday at 7:30pm and Thursday the 14th at 7:30pm. SMT also presents three 2pm matinees: Sunday, December 10th, Saturday the 16th, and the finale on Sunday, December 17th.

Tickets here.

King County Metro has regular service at times suitable for every performance (before and after) for Northgate Transit Center (Route 75), Downtown Seattle (Route 62), and other locations (see Metro schedule). The theater is accessible.



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Talk-Back Friday at Seattle Musical Theatre's Kiss Me Kate

Thursday, April 13, 2017

Seattle Musical Theatre (SMT), will be hosting a talkback session with members of the cast and crew of our critically-acclaimed production of Kiss Me Kate this Friday, April 14th, following the show.
 
The discussion is free and will be an opportunity for our patrons to ask questions of our team, as well as to focus in on the theme for our 39th Season, Identity, and how it is viewed through the lens of theatre.

SMT hosted one talkback session opening weekend and it was an engaging and enlightening discussion for all involved.
We hope you will join us to both enjoy this wonderful production, as well as to share your thoughts on this thought-provoking topic!

Kiss Me Kate runs through April 30th (Fridays and Saturdays @ 7:30pm, Sundays @ 2pm, with a special Thursday performance @ 7:30pm on April 27th).

Secure Your Seats by Clicking Here! Keep up with all things SMT at our website!

Also, Check Out our Latest Review by Clicking Here!

Purchase Four Tickets at Our Website for KISS ME KATE and get them for the Cost of Three! Bring a friend and share SMT with them!



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Theater review: Kiss Me Kate is a treat ... with a twist

Wednesday, April 12, 2017


Review by Jim Anderson

Seattle Musical Theater presents a treat in 'Kiss Me Kate'. Shakespeare's 'The Taming of the Shrew' was recreated as 'Kiss Me Kate' in the late 1940's by Samuel and Bella Spewack with the music of Cole Porter. However, this Spewack re-creation has a twist, in that our actors are portraying other actors performing 'The Taming of the Shrew'. The main storyline, in place of Shakespeare's man pursuing a rich bride, sees an estranged couple trying to work together on stage ... while being 'babysat' by mobsters.

Offered to the stage of Seattle Musical Theater in Seattle at Magnuson Community Center through April, 'Kiss Me Kate' showcases talented leads, fabulous music and fantastic choreography by an enjoyable chorus. Truly memorable scenes with strong vocal performances almost make the instrumentalists disappear - if that were possible. The orchestra was fantastic and another means by which Seattle Musical Theater continues to grow.

By the third song, 'Wunderbar', lead actors Tae Phoenix and Jimmi Cook had the audience wrapped up in the story line as they portrayed with tangible believability that the relationship of these estranged lovers deserved to be mended.

Then we had the gangsters, portrayed by Anna Vizzare and John Han, who nearly stole the show with quirky antics and lines that continually found unanticipated comical timing. Their tune, 'Brush Up Your Shakespeare', besides making a transition to the last two scenes is memorable. If they were seen as talented before, this tune made them cute and perhaps endearing.

Watch the dancers and chorus for smiles and timing and staying naturally in tune with their characters, not just their songs. They are a delight to watch and enjoyable.

Not only is this performance G-rated, 'Kiss Me Kate' is another step in the right direction for Seattle Musical Theater and a fitting teaser for their 40th anniversary season coming next year. Look for 'My Fair Lady', 'Annie', 'Ain't Misbehavin'' and 'The Producers' next year. The inclusion of 'Annie' in this 40th anniversary season is a tip of the hat to its original Broadway release the same year, 1977, that Seattle Musical Theater began as Civic Light Opera.

At Seattle Musical Theater, the growth of talent and the way it is presented is art. It is always good for civil society to have art growing and developing in its midst. 'Kiss Me Kate' displays a commitment by SMT to have their craft developing and growing here in our community. We can only hope that Seattle Parks will grow in its commitment to keep them in this venue, so these improvements both in the art and in the art facility may go on.

Running all April at the Warren Magnuson Park Community Center on Sand Point Way, 'Kiss Me Kate' tells Seattle that this company is a worthy and affordable complement to our community. 

Showings are Thursday through Saturday through April 30 with 7:30pm performances and 2pm Sunday matinees. 7120 62nd Ave NE, Seattle, WA 98115



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Seattle Musical Theatre opens 39th Season Friday with revival version of Working, based on Studs Terkel book

Thursday, September 8, 2016



Seattle Musical Theatre, Seattle’s longest-running musical theatre company, is launching its 39th season this Friday with the classic musical, WORKING.

Based on Studs Terkel's best-selling book of interviews with American workers and nominated for six Tony Awards, this classic has been updated for a modern age featuring new songs by Tony Award-winning composer Lin-Manuel Miranda (Hamilton, In The Heights), as well as favorites by Stephen Schwartz (Wicked, Pippin), and Grammy-winner James Taylor.

This new 2012 version of Working is a musical exploration of 26 people from all walks of life. While most of the professions have been updated, the strength of the show is in the core truths that transcend specific professions.

“This show ties in brilliantly to our overall theme for the season- Identity,” states newly-appointed Managing Artistic Director Chris Mayse. 
“People's relationships to their work reveal aspects of their humanity and their identity, regardless of the challenges of the job itself.”

The show, still set in contemporary America, contains timeless truths. This new version of Working allows the audience to get a rare glimpse of the actors and technicians working to put on a show. This raw adaptation only enhances the realistic and relatable nature of the subject matter.

Tickets are currently on sale for Working, as well as for all of SMT’s 39th season selections. Go to www.seattlemusicaltheatre.org, to learn more about the company and their upcoming season.

September 9 through October 2, 2016 at Seattle Musical Theatre, 7120 62nd Ave NE, Seattle 98115 in Magnuson Park.



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Seattle Musical Theatre hires Managing Artistic Director

Thursday, June 16, 2016

Chris Mayse, Managing Artistic Director
Seattle Musical Theatre
After several years of being an all-volunteer administration, Seattle Musical Theatre has hired Chris Mayse as their new Managing Artistic Director.

Chris has an impressive background as an actor and director including having worked regionally with companies such as the Milwaukee Rep, Utah Shakespeare Festival, Monomoy Theatre, Door Shakespeare, Super Summer Theatre, Montana Rep, and the Nevada Conservatory Theatre.

He has worked in administration with regional theaters, educational organizations and with Merlin Entertainments, LLC.

Recently, Chris directed "The MisEducation of the Well-Meaning Liberal" with Rainier Valley Cultural Center, as well as serving as a guest artist at Issaquah High School, directing their Spring production of ANNIE (which received seven nominations from the 5th Avenue Theatre's Annual High School Musical Awards).

Chris has already begun working with SMT and plans to announce the 2016/17 Season very soon.

Single ticket sales will begin August 15th.


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Troy Wageman the new Interim Artistic Director of Seattle Musical Theatre

Sunday, September 1, 2013


As his first act as Interim Executive Director, Mark Chenovick has appointed Troy Wageman the new Interim Artistic Director of Seattle Musical Theatre (SMT).

“I feel blessed that Mr. Wageman is willing to assist SMT during this time of transition,” said Chenovick. “His artistry and integrity is beyond reproach and the passion he has for musical theater is exactly what SMT needs right now. Besides overseeing the productions in the current season, Wageman will also be assisting in plotting a course for the future of SMT.”
Wagemen was last seen at SMT as director for the hit Altar Boyz during the 2012-2013 season. Prior to that, he choreographed The Drowsy Chaperone under the direction of Brandon Ivie.

When asked for comment, Wageman said “I am absolutely thrilled to be taking on this formative position over the coming months. I have always had a special place in my heart for this organization, and I am elated to be given the chance to help this theater rise to where it can and should be in the Seattle theater landscape."

Coming up next for SMT will be Dirty Rotten Scoundrels, opening September 13th. Tickets are available online.


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Seattle Musical Theatre announces Interim Executive Director

Wednesday, August 21, 2013


The Board of Directors of Seattle Musical Theatre is pleased to announce the appointment of Mark Chenovick as Seattle Musical Theatre's Interim Executive Director. Chenovick, who is currently serving as Executive Artistic Director of SecondStory Repertory, will begin in his new role at SMT beginning August 20, 2013.

“I have no intentions of leaving SSR, but it is my personal mission to provide as many opportunities for theater practitioners as possible,” says Chenovick. “I am very excited by the opportunity to assist SMT by implementing the same sound business practices that brought SSR back from the brink of bankruptcy in 2010.”

SMT’s mission is to engage and educate musical theater patrons and artists of all ages with productions of high artistic value as part of a viable component of the Puget Sound region’s cultural environment.

Chenovick plans to focus on charting a new course for the organization. This will be a team effort among the full-time staff, contract workers, and the artistic community that participates in SMT’s productions throughout the season. He hopes to create an active involvement with the theater community of the Puget Sound.

“We’re very excited to have someone as accomplished and respected within the community as Mark Chenovick to be coming on board with SMT,” says Mark Nihart, President of the Board of Directors of SMT. “Looking forward to our 36th season, Metamorphosis, we are enthusiastic about the transformation that Mark will bring to the organization.”

A native of Helena, Montana, Chenovick is currently serving as Executive Artistic Director of SecondStory Repertory in Redmond. Prior to that, he was President/Treasurer of Redwood Theatre as well as an active member of the Seattle based Showtunes Theatre Company.


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