MOTOWN THE MUSICAL

Mo' money, mo' problems...Motown. The famed lyrics sums up the rise of Detroit's grassroots music scene, retold in Broadway musical form as the story of one man's dream. Founder Berry Gordy's journey in the entertainment business started with a desire to write songs and grew into a recording label as he launched careers of some of most iconic African American performers of the time.
 

Photo by Joan Marcus, courtesy of Broadway in Cincy

Motown The Musical captures every toe-tapping detail of Gordy's rise and inevitable fall as he competes with corporate record labels. The fast-paced timeline progresses with songs from the eras, such as early hits from Smokey Robinson, The Temptations, and Marvin Gaye. We meet the Supremes during their high school days, croon with a young Michael Jackson and Stevie Wonder; all who got their start in a Detroit studio known as Hitsville U.S.A.
 

Berry Gordy and Diana Ross
Photo by Joan Marcus, courtesy of Broadway in Cincy

With success comes trials, as competitors inch in on Gordy's talent, and romantic relationships blossom within his close-knit collaborative.

The Supremes
Photo by Joan Marcus, courtesy of Broadway in Cincy

As a fan of the Motown sound, the Broadway cast reenactments of musical legends were spot on -- from appearance to rafter-shaking vocal talent. I particularly enjoyed Reed Shannon, a teenager who owned the roles of young talent that Gordy shaped. While rockin' with the Jackson 5 hit "ABC," his song mastery shined during the audition scene where Shannon belted out a heartfelt "old soul" ballad as Michael Jackson.

Jackson 5
Photo by Joan Marcus, courtesy of Broadway in Cincy

Motown The Musical does a fantastic job of telling the whole story of how Gordy's Motown label pioneered African Americans into the popular music scene. If you're curious on learning about the backstory, a hardcore Motown fan, casual listener, or simply enjoy a musical with a solid story and all-around powerhouse cast -- this show is for you!

Motown The Musical runs through September 20, 2015 at The Aronoff.

I LOVE LUCY AT THE ARONOFF

I've got some 'splainin to do about this awesome Broadway rendition of I Love Lucy!

Enter the Aronoff. The audience was a mix of both young people and age-old fans -- proof that Lucy continues to be a timeless classic. Plenty of people were dressed in Lucy-similar fashion: bright dresses, pinned up hair, and ruby red lips. It was a fun touch to see people showing their excitment for the show in their fashion choice.

Now, I'm a casual Lucy watcher. I wouldn't be savvy at trivia, but enjoy the plotlines and humor. My friend Allie accompanied me; she's a hard core fan. Both of us were heartily entertained by the non-traditional musical. Going in blind, I thought I Love Lucy would be one of those recreations of a star's career, similar to Million Dollar Quartet or Ring of Fire. Lucy is not one of those musicals.

Curtains up! The audience became a live studio audience as 1950s television cameras panned around the stage, makeup and wardrobe artists fluffed and primped the talent, painting a glimpse into what a real, live I Love Lucy production would look like. With more acting than singing, the cast "broadcasts" two episodes with all your favorite antics: trips to the doctor, Club Babalu, ukeleles, and your favorite supporting cast members: Ricky, Ethel, and Fred.

Leads Thea Brooks, Euriamis Losada, Kevin Remington and Lori Hammel do a smashing job of embracing their characters, including look, voice, and quirky mannerisms. With plenty of hilarity, an occasional tune, and (my favorite part of the show) the old-timey advertisement jingles for products such as Brylcreem, Alka-Seltzer, Mr. Clean, and "See the USA in your Chevolet!" everyone can find enjoyment in falling in love with Lucy all over again.

I Love Lucy runs at The Aronoff through June 14, 2015.

CINDERELLA AT THE ARONOFF

I can't resist a musical with a strong female role model. (Wait, are we are talking about Cinderella here, right?) Most of us remember the princess fairytale starring the downtrodden delicate flower trapped under the thumb of her wicked stepmother, who by a chance of magic, meets Prince Charming who whisks her away from a life of servitude. The moral: girls, you too can become glamourous royalty if you're helpless, blonde, and have petite feet. That Cinderella is so 100 years ago.

Prince Topher and Cinderella
Courtesy of  Broadway Across America

Broadway in Cincy introduces us to the modern Cinderella, Rodgers and Hammerstein's version, who is a refreshing update of a self-assured woman. Cinderella knows grit, but she's also a self-educated community activist. Her stepmother, Madame, and stepsister Charlotte are still both hair-raisngly wicked, but her other stepsister, the timid Gabrielle, becomes Cinderella's confidant. There's plenty of bippity-boppity-boo, pumpkins, and glitz from the traditional story, but this time it's not all about a glass slipper. Cinderella is tasked with convincing the Prince that there is corruption in his court and the poor are being robbed of their land. Now how's that for a plot transformation? R+H do a fantastic job of adding personality and depth to the two-dimensional storybook characters of yesteryear and develop a plot that will keep audience of all ages engaged and intrigued.

Cinderella, Madame, and stepsisters Gabrielle and Charlotte.
Courtesy of  Broadway Across America

Step-sister Charlotte and the ensemble fuss over shoes.
Courtesy of  Broadway Across America

Cinderella, played by Paige Faure (an awesome name for a leading lady, if I may say so myself) woos the audience with her graceful vocals; keeping Cinderella elegant while daring to chase her dreams. My favorite was easily Kecia Lewis, who plays the fairy godmother. She flies, has rafter-shaking vocals, and comes brings an assortment of visual magic on stage.

Kecia Lewis and Paige Faure in Cinderella.
Courtesy of  Broadway Across America

The behind-the-scenes folks go above and beyond for Cinderella, with elaborate costume changes and pumpkin carriages morphing right before your eyes. The effects will leave even the most analytical-minded adults wondering "How did they do that!?"

Cinderella's pumpkin carriage is... magical.
Courtesy of  Broadway Across America

Rodgers and Hammerstein's Cinderella runs through January 18, 2015 at The Aronoff.

WICKED AT THE ARONOFF

The Aronoff Center is going Ozmopolitan with a two week long run of WICKED, America's favorite Broadway musical. (Really! It's been the highest in the nation for ticket sales this season.)

A prequel to The Wizard of Oz, the show opens with the celebration of the Wicked Witch's death as the people of Munchkinland ask about the cause of wickedness:  "Are people born wicked? Or do they have wickedness thrust upon them?"

Glinda the Good Witch and Elphaba, the Wicked Witch of the West
Photo courtesy of Broadway Across America

This question resonates as we journey back to the formative years of the citizens of Oz, leading with the Wicked Witch of the West and the Good Witch, known then as Elphaba and Glinda. In two contrasting roles, Glinda shines as the perky, popular blonde while Elphaba is the brooding intellectual who has harnessed magical powers. The two bond as frenemies as we learn how there's more to Elphaba and the flying monkeys than what meets the eye...and that the Wizard may not be all that wonderful after all. Chocked full of delightful hilarity and plenty of references to the 1939 film, WICKED presents a highly imaginative backstory to The Wizard of Oz with a soundtrack you'll be immediately downloading to your iPod.

Young Elphaba and Glinda at university
Photo courtesy of Broadway Across America

Having seen WICKED four times plus Idina Menzel's solo tour (Idina was the original Elphaba), I've learned most of the songs by heart, if not most of the dialogue too. Each national tour has unique performers creating subtle differences for every bi-annual show. It's exciting to see the rotating actresses' take on Elphaba and Glinda; the chemistry, the demeanor, and the vocal range of their songs.

Elphaba performs the showstopping number: Defying Gravity.
Photo courtesy of Broadway Across America

Now I don't expect everyone to hit that eighth octave in Defying Gravity; not even Idina herself can sing that note anymore. What I do expect is consistency. While all of the songs had their strengths, there were often moments where both Glinda (Gina Beck) and Elphaba (Alison Luff) were channeling William Shatner, speaking certain lyrics that should be sung or singing at a slower tempo.  For a fanatic of the musical like me, it noticeably changes the feel of the original songs. Both Beck and Luff are talented, but not my first choice for the stars of WICKED. Their style would work best in a rock musical, like Broadway's Ghost or Flashdance. It's WICKED. Everyone's looking forward to an Idina Menzel-esque experience. Don't reinvent the wheel. What do you think? Do you hear a difference between 2011 Elphaba and 2014 Elphaba?

Elphaba flies high above the stage during Defying Gravity; the song with the eighth octave and one of my personal favorites
Photo courtesy of Broadway Across America

Fastidiousness aside, WICKED is definitely worth going to see for the plot alone; one of the most clever and detail-oriented with little twists in the story in every act. I could gaze at the set for hours to be mystified by the intricate craftsmanship that creates a majestic steampunk theme. The costumes are just as gorgeous: from tiny hats to bold-colored, old timey wingtip boots, ladies, you'll be wondering where you can purchase a pair for yourself.

The fashionable people of Oz
Photo courtesy of Broadway Across America

Considering going to WICKED for the first time? Do it. You'll have a blast. This is also the perfect show to introduce someone to Broadway who has never been to the theatre before. It will steal their heart and create a lifelong fan. WICKED was my first Broadway show and I'm still head-over-ruby heels for it. As for repeat hardcore fans, you should go and see it too. Just know going in that the songs may differ. If all else fails, you can always help out by singing along ...because every voice deserves a chance to fly.


WICKED runs at The Aronoff through March 23, 2014.

Need tickets? Follow the instructions below to take part in the WICKED lottery to win a pair of orchestra seats for only $25 each!

GRINCH: THE MUSICAL AT THE ARONOFF

A holiday classic, How The Grinch Stole Christmas turned Broadway musical stars as the seasonal show at the Aronoff. The adaptation of the Dr. Seuss book was rumored to be similar to the animated story, but instead delivered like the Jim Carrey movie. If you're a fan, you'll enjoy this version too.



Photo courtesy of Broadway Across America

The story features the scheming Grinch who has "a heart two sizes too small" and a strong dislike of Christmastime. In an attempt to thwart the festivities, the Grinch steals Christmas away from the holiday-loving Whos. Complete with candy-colored yuletide costumes and cartoon-like choreography, Grinch: The Musical is a special way to start off the holidays with your family.

Photo courtesy of Broadway Across America

Most definitely a family-friendly show, this may be a good time to suggest an "Adults Only" section at the Aronoff, similar to sections at the movie theatre that are designated for age 21+. Watching the Grinch parade around stage brought back fond memories of my youth. However, it was the child sitting behind us that was the true Grinch of the show, whose behavior distracted from becoming immersed in the story.

Photo courtesy of Broadway Across America

Fortunately, Grinch: The Musical is familiar enough to follow along. If you're an adult looking to reminisce with the show, consider splurging on some of the pricier seats, which tend to have fewer families with small children.

Grinch: The Musical runs at The Aronoff through December 1, 2013.

CAKE BOSS TOURS CINCINNATI

Buddy Valastro: The Cake Boss

The Family Celebrations Tour

Join America’s favorite baker, Buddy Valastro, Monday, Nov 18^th at 7:30 PM at the Aronoff Theatre, for an all new show of cakes, stories, and fun. In this live, interactive event, TLC's Cake Boss will share stories from his highly popular TV shows (Cake Boss, Next Great Baker), his family at Carlo’s Bakery, will answer audience questions, and most importantly, will give lots of live cake & cupcake decorating demonstrations, sharing tips and techniques in a high-energy experience for the whole family!

Friends of Cincy Whimsy receive $5 off on tickets.  Just click here and use code ‘BUDDY’.

FLASHDANCE: THE MUSICAL

The latest musical to take the stage from Broadway in Cincinnati defined a generation in 1983, and led me on a trip to Target to purchase some bright colored leggings then plan a  weekend roadtrip to Pittsburgh.

Photo courtesy of  Broadway Across America

With electrifying dance at its core, Flashdance: The Musical tells the inspiring and unforgettable story of Alex Owens, a Pittsburgh steel mill welder by day and a bar dancer by night with dreams of one day becoming a professional performer. When romance with her steel mill boss threatens to complicate her ambitions, Alex learns the meaning of love and its power to fuel the pursuit of her dream.

Photo courtesy of  Broadway Across America

Fueled with all of your favorite songs from Joan Jett, Hall & Oates, as well as its iconic number "What a Feeling,"  Flashdance will have audiences reliving a youth of the vibrant 80s. My favorite song was the powerhouse "Manhunt," which created a visual montage of Alex and the romantic gestures of her boss. Can she be both a lover and a star?

Photo courtesy of  Broadway Across America

Rare in theatrical form, Flashdance is one of the few musicals that showcases a strong, independent female lead character. See it for the tunes, or see it for the plot; either way, this show will leave lasting impressions.

Photo courtesy of  Broadway Across America

Flashdance: The Musical runs through November 10 at The Aronoff.

GHOST: THE MUSICAL

Broadway season kicked off Tuesday night at The Aronoff with Ghost: The Musical. Based on the 1990 romantic drama film, the live adaptation is new to the theatrical scene after opening in Manchester in 2011.

As someone who had not watched the movie, the musical version was easy to follow without prior knowledge of the plot. The story revolves around two lovers in New York City: Sam, an executive banker, and Molly, a bohemian artist. On their way home, the couple is attacked and Sam is killed. Caught in purgatory after his death, Sam learns that Molly is in danger and connects with psychic Oda Mae Brown to warn her.

Photo Credit: Broadway Across America

 
Flashes and flare throughout the production gives Ghost a modern edge over traditional, long-running musicals. Digital backdrops and illusions of the eye make the show a multi-sensory experience, leaving the audience wondering, "How did they do that?" Optical magic happens throughout the show, including Sam walking through a closed door, objects flying off the shelves, or a piece of paper folding itself.

My favorite song was "More" which involved the ensemble's portrayal of the bustling Financial District; a juxtaposition of dancing suits. There were also two scenes where Sam interacted with a ghost on the subway. I was astonished how the digital set created train cars that the actors could board and also made it look like it was moving at full-speed along the rails.

Photo Credit: Broadway Across America

For those who have seen the movie, you may recall that Oda Mae Brown was originally portrayed by Whoopie Goldberg. While these are some epic shoes to fill, the musical's actress, Carla R. Stewart, stole the show. Her over-the-top performance and raw, soulful vocals create the favorite character that heightens the entertainment in a Broadway show.

Photo Credit: Broadway Across America

Whether or not you remember the movie, Ghost: The Musical impresses with a fresh, tech-savvy showcase of Broadway.

Ghost: The Musical runs through October 6 at The Aronoff.

SISTER ACT AT ARONOFF

Praise the roof! Sister Act will have you dancing in the aisle with more on-stage glitz than has ever caught your eye.

Ta’Rea Campbell stars as Deloris, an up-and-coming singer who has her eyes set on being a diva. After getting mixed in with the wrong crowd and witnessing a murder, she is forced to hide in a convent under protective custody. Assuming the identity of Sister Mary Clarence, Deloris befriends a group of timid nuns while participating in a tone-deaf choir.

Deloris's soulful voice inspires her sisters to break out of their shell and sing their songs with power and joy. Facing strong disapproval from headmistress, Mother Superior, Deloris's secular teachings get her in hot water with the church, ultimately facing her with eviction from the convent.

While Campbell rocks the house as the lead, many of the supporting characters belted out a number that gave the audience goosebumps. Sister Mary Lazurus, an spunky, elderly nun, surprised the room with her passionate jazz vocals. Perhaps the most quiet of them all, Sister Mary Robert, played by Lael Van Keuren, blasted the audience away during her solo number, joining my list of Broadway powerhouse actresses that could be the next Idina Menzel.

A lively, spirited send off to the 2012-2013 Broadway season, Sister Act is sure to leave you dancing in the aisles.

Sister Act runs through May 12, 2013 at The Aronoff.

WAR HORSE AT THE ARONOFF

Behoove yourself to take an unbridled adventure with War Horse, the latest show at The Aronoff presented by Broadway in Cincinnati. It's like the Old Yeller of theatre... but with a horse.

Known for its puppetry of a life-sized horse with mechanical parts moved by hand, the star of the show is Joey, a mixed-breed wild foal who befriends a young boy, Albert, after his father acquires him at an auction.

Photo courtesy of Broadway Across America

I'll admit, I was a little weary of seeing a wire-framed skeleton shaped into a horse. At first glance, it seemed bewildering, but after five minutes of watching Joey, the graceful mechanics of the puppeteers made me believe I was watching a real, live horse. The mannerisms, breathing, hoof-stomping, neighing, and gentle nuzzling were spot on.

Photo courtesy of Broadway Across America

As Joey grows into an adult horse, Albert trains him and tames the wild foal to be his friend. When Albert's father hastily sells Joey to the British Army during World War I, Albert enlists to bring him home.


While separated, both Albert and Joey go through the trials of war which are depicted with a raw passion throughout the play. One thing that makes War Horse different from most Broadway shows is its minimalist set, which consists of some minor props and backdrops. Scenes change through strategic positioning of actors and the projected sketches show on a backdrop above the stage. This was also the first Broadway I've seen which didn't focus on singing. An occasional folk song was sung a capella accompanied by an accordion. Though it's not a traditional Broadway show, War Horse is a strong contender among some of the best theatre I've watched.

Photo courtesy of Broadway Across America

The most breathtaking moments were the army enlistment scene at the start of World War I, as well as some of the battles and the innovative portrayal of the casualties in the field. I also did not expect to see multiple life-sized horse puppets in the play: four horses in addition to Joey make their way onto stage throughout the show. And yes, the more horses, the more incredible the scenes progress!

Photo courtesy of Broadway Across America

I tend to be a fan of the "small detail" characters, like the dog in Peter Pan. For War Horse, I was delighted whenever the goose puppeteer made appearances on stage, usually as the comic relief on the farm.

Photo courtesy of  Brinkhoff/Mögenburg

War Horse is a visually imaginative masterpiece that will tug at your heartstrings and leave you shedding tears for a boy and his horse. This is also a great play to share with a theatre-hesitant man who has yet to experience Broadway. It will entertain him with heavy action and wartime stories, and weave him into the solemn songs and intricate plot.

Photo courtesy of Broadway Across America

War Horse runs at The Aronoff from March 26 – April 7, 2013.
Tuesday- Friday at 8:00PM, Saturday at 2:00PM and 8:00PM, and Sunday at 1:00PM and 6:30PM.
Tickets range from $28 – $83

PETER PAN AT THE ARONOFF

It's normal for me to feel glistening after seeing a Broadway show  at The Aronoff, however the opening night performance of Peter Pan left me sparkling with fairy dust - literally!

Image courtesy of Broadway Across America.

 Great for adults and children alike, this classic tale revisits Neverland and tells the story of youthful imagination and never growing old. The original Broadway Peter Pan, Cathy Rigby, stars as the lead in an evening filled high-soaring actors, tumbling, and whimsy all-around.

Image courtesy of Broadway Across America.

I was very impressed with the ensemble of The Lost Boys and the tribe, who brought stunning choreography and songs to the storyline.

Image courtesy of Broadway Across America.

 
I also loved how the pirates seemed to be pulling sizable props out of thin air; I was fascinated!

Image courtesy of Broadway Across America.

My favorite character of all was also the most minor: Nana the St. Bernard. This gigantic dog was played by a human in the most adorable furry costume, crawling around on the floor in canine-fashion.

Image courtesy of Broadway Across America.

Prior to being cast as Peter Pan, Rigby was an Olympic Gymnast and was the first woman to win a medal at the world championships. Upon retiring from competitions at age 20, producers approached her about starring in the musical. Although it was noted that she was a shy young lady still coming-of-age, Rigby embraced the role and it was a perfect fit. Forty years later, she is still performing as the boy who would never grow up.

Image courtesy of Broadway Across America.

Yes, that's right. Cathy Rigby is 60 years old, flying around the room, doing somersaults, aerial flips, and everything inbetween. I can't imagine my 60-year-old parents moving like that. Heck, I wouldn't even attempt to move like that. After all these years, Rigby still knows how to delight a room and make live theatre a magical experience for all.

Image courtesy of Broadway Across America.

Peter Pan runs through Sunday, March 17, 2013 at The Aronoff.

CANSTRUCTION

CANstruction is an international community service project of the design and construction industry to benefit community food banks. Every year, architects, engineers, designers and contractors compete to design and build elaborate, giant-sized structures made entirely out of canned foods. Teams of five people gather at five different locations around Cincinnati to build 10'x10'x10' sculptures in five hours.

Cincinnati consistently places at the top of America's best designs. Following the construction, the exhibits stay up for three weeks for public viewing. The sculptures are then dismantled and donated to Freestore Foodbank. In 2012, CANstruction raised 55,000 lbs of food which equals over 40,000 meals for families in need. Since it's conception 15 years ago, over 500,000 lbs have been donated.

The majority of the sculptures can be seen at Weston Art Gallery at the Aronoff, with other exhibits at Downtown Library, Downtown Macy's, Contemporary Arts Center, and the Scripps Center on Walnut Street.