I Can't, I Have Rehearsal

Undergoing Maintenance

2009-12-30T16:03:00.000-06:00

As you can probably tell, my blog is currently undergoing some down(ish) time to make things prettier.

YouTube Video Panic Attack! Lands $30 Million Movie Deal

2009-12-19T19:06:00.010-06:00

So you put a video on YouTube and years later you score big-time with a sweet ass action movie with a possible (outside) shot at a Best Picture Oscar nomination. So is the case with Neill Blomkamp and his short film Alive in Joberg which lead to that bad ass flick known as District 9. Not too effin' shabby, but even more impressive is independent filmmaker Fede Alvarez’s “Ataque de Panico” (

Precious Moments: an Accurate Depiction

2009-12-18T17:40:00.007-06:00

I really love the movie Precious: Based on the Novel Push by Sapphire. This parody reinforces doubts and condemnations that many have attributed to the movie's press and hype. Not entirely unfounded (I mean have you seen the trailer? It reads like a Spike Lee directed Hallmark Channel movie.), but the movie in my opinion really overcomes its possible badness with earnest direction, good writing,

2 Shots from Wall-E Worth Discussing: Seurat, Sondheim, and Art

2009-12-05T20:53:00.008-06:00

While in the process of compiling my list of the best movies of the 'aughts,' I had to take pause on certain occasions to further emphasize the brilliance that is Pixar's Wall-E.This first shot comes at the end of the first act of the movie. It's almost identical to an earlier shot that shows Wall-E in his day to day activities working. It is also my favorite shot in the entire movie.The shot the

ATAC Globes vs SA Current vs the Fabulous Actors Guild and Supporters (aka the FAGS)

2009-10-15T16:00:00.011-05:00

Please take my humor in stride and disregard anything that might seem offensive. I promise the title will be my only attempt at contempt. ;-)Finding motivation to write has always been a bit of struggle for me, particularly when it comes to this blog. If you peruse my past entries, you'll find major gaps in time between posts. This has less to do with laziness than with motivation.After not

Curtains Cast at San Pedro Playhouse

2009-07-29T16:31:00.004-05:00

UPDATED 7/29 at 5:17pmThank you to my friends Jillian and Amy for this! (And by the way, congratulations to both of you!)The San Pedro Playhouse has been shooting its proverbial casting wad the past couple of weeks with its 2009-2010 season audition announcements. With a high profile season coming up (Evita, A Christmas Carol [again], Beehive, Curtains, Boeing-Boeing, and The Music Man), San

Boeing-Boeing at San Pedro Playhouse Cast List

2009-07-24T17:49:00.002-05:00

My friend and stage manager of San Pedro Playhouse's 2010 production of Boeing-Boeing, Amy Dullnig announced the full cast list today for the super fun and sexy play written by Marc Camoletti.The cast will feature Brad Adams (Bernard), Joel Crabtree (Robert), Haley Burnside (Janet), Rainya Mosher (Judith), Emily Spicer (Jacqueline), and Gloria Sanchez (Bertha).The show will start performances May

Take Me Out tonight at the San Pedro Playhouse's Cellar Theater

2009-07-17T15:03:00.005-05:00

Tonight I'll be taking in the San Pedro Playhouse's production of Take Me Out in the Cellar Theater. The original play, written by Richard Greenberg, debuted on Broadway February 27, 2003 at the Walter Kerr Theatre and closed on January 4, 2004. The show had a successful run and even won 2003 Tony Awards for Best Play, Best Direction for Joe Mantello, and Best Featured Actor in a Play for Denis

Cast Announced for Psycho Beach Party at the Cameo in San Antonio

2009-07-14T18:59:00.004-05:00

The Cameo Theatre of San Antonio has been home to some stellar productions in the area. Particularly well done was their 2007 production of Kander and Ebb's Cabaret. That production had the benefit of two strong lead performances by Anne Gerber as Sally Bowles and Rick Sanchez as the Emcee.Rick has become an acquaintance of mine in recent months (we've even had the opportunity to party it up - a

More of the Critic Debate - Now from Down Under

2009-07-06T11:51:00.005-05:00

From Alison Croggon's (blogger of theatre notes) review of Jersey Boys in Australia:"On the morning of the Australian premiere of Jersey Boys, I had an appointment with an osteopath to deal with the Gordian knots in my shoulders. "My osteo is a young woman from Taylor's Lakes with the hands of a ministering angel. While she was busy with the medical equivalent of breaking rocks, she asked me if I

Sarah Palin Photo Caption Contest!!

2009-07-06T09:04:00.011-05:00

First an excercise in critical interpretation:Let's get the brain warmed up this morning with a little bit of creative analysis. Given Palin's political views, ethical and moral standing, and her employment history (Matthew Freeman over at On Theatre and Politics posted her resignation speech and this unfortunate quote on quitting her job -"A good point guard drives through a full court press,

Hair 2009 Revival cast album review

2009-07-02T20:44:00.006-05:00

Great Recording, Good Score, Sucky PackageI was wanting to go in depth with my review of the new Hair cast album, but there really isn't any need to. The score by Galt McDermot (music), Gerome Ragni and James Rado (lyrics) is superb (well for the most part – act 2 does get bogged down a bit). The cast sounds fantastic (especially Gavin Creel, Will Swenson, and Sasha Allen). Plus, there are a

Persepolis film review

2009-07-02T17:47:00.003-05:00

Affirmation of Eastern CivilizationIf you, like me, are one of the many who were intrigued by the Iranian protests that started in June, than you will find the film Persepolis, Marjane Satrapi's autobiographical film based on her graphic novels about growing up during the Iranian protests of the 1970s, to be a formidable piece of world education and an enthralling dramatic entertainment.The

Go Green, Support a Revolution

2009-06-21T12:42:00.020-05:00

So I was supposed to give you a Chess in Concert review and a [title of show] review, but I've been mesmerized lately with all the Iran protests. As a result, first review up by tomorrow morning will be of the film Persepolis.With all the crazy-ass stuff going on in Iran, now would be a good time to re-watch Perseoplis, Marjane Satrapi's animated memories of growing up under the Shah and the

Agust to close; Chess and Hair reviews postponed; around the theatre blogosphere

2009-06-17T16:35:00.007-05:00

Sad news: Agust: Osage County will be closing June 28th. Major bummer.I was originally planning on posting full reviews today of Chess in Concert (CD & DVD) and the new cast recording of Hair. Looks like things are changing a bit. I've been listening to Chess now for the past hour and still am bored out of my mind. Early thoughts: Idina Menzel is no Elaine Paige. Adam Pascal has ruined his voice.

West Side Story (2009 revival) cast album review

2009-06-16T15:27:00.007-05:00

Still West Side, Still EssentialThere’s not much else to say that hasn’t been said about West Side Story and this revival. Therefore this will be a short review. We are all aware of the exceptional Leonard Bernstein score (perhaps the greatest score ever); we are all aware of the influential Jerome Robbins choreography; we are all aware of Karen Olivo’s fantastic performance as Anita. And of

next to normal cast album review

2009-06-15T17:31:00.007-05:00

Certainly Not Ordinary People, Definitely Not NormalA couple of years ago when I was listening to the drek that is High Fidelity, my thoughts prematurely wrote off composer Tom Kitt as a talented writer with no sense of musicality and character. What should have been an excellent rock score for a would-be rock musical came off as amateurish with no direction and no sense for the (bad) book and

Billy Elliot: The Musical cast album review

2009-06-14T17:07:00.016-05:00

Yes I'm blogging again. Moving on...Playbill.com has posted an article reflecting back on the cast albums of the 2008-09 theatrical season. After reading it, I've concluded that while the season may have been a bit blah for new musicals, it was still a pretty good year for cast albums. And while not every new show was of my personal liking (13, Shrek), there was one show that I fell in love

Racist Midgets and Talky Hitmen, or: In Bruges Film Review

2009-01-26T23:26:00.006-06:00

In Bruges ***1/2 (out of ****)"Back off, shorty!" And then Ray karate chops Jimmy, a 'midget actor', in the neck and heads out.If that image doesn't bring even a little smile to your face, then In Bruges may not be your ideal movie. Just like Ray, played with wonderful humor and pathos by Colin Farrell, bemoaning a temporary vacation in the least of ideal locales (have you ever seen Bruges?

Wow, a new post!! or: how I got over being lazy

2009-01-26T22:16:00.011-06:00

So, yes. I have been done with A Christmas Carol since the end of December. Here are a few pics from that wonderful show.The show was quite a success, commercially and artistically. We sold out nearly every night (even during the week of Christmas) and the show was well received by the San Antonio critics. Michael E. Barrett of the San Antonio Express News wrote in his glowing review, "At the

Opening A Christmas Carol, or: I shall return

2008-11-24T12:58:00.005-06:00

On hiatus as I open my first show since this summer. I'll be performing in San Pedro Playhouse's production of the Alan Menken/Lynn Ahrens musical version of A Christmas Carol. We open on Saturday night. I play Jacob Marley. I am totally busy. I'll be back though. Promise.

Theater Tidbits, or: an excuse for bullet posting

2008-11-18T10:10:00.008-06:00

To Be or Not To Be has come and gone. And nobody even noticed.Marcy Harriell begins her run as Vanessa in the Tony-winning musical In the Heights starting tonight. She's been in previews since the 15th.Tony Award winner Elaine Stritch will again portray the mother of Alec Baldwin's character Jack on the Emmy-winning NBC comedy series 30 Rock. The veteran actress will appear on the Dec. 11

Small New Musicals to Make It to Broadway, or: defying the odds

2008-11-18T10:00:00.000-06:00

***This was supposed to be posted on Nov. 12. I have no idea what happened. Never late than never. Here ya go.Some good news for those who are afraid behemoths like Shrek and Billy Elliot will leave smaller shows out in the dust:Despite increasing unreliability and turmoil with the economy, it seems that the new musicals Vanities and The Story of My Life are still gearing up for Broadway

Opening Night Reviews for American Buffalo, or: DidHeLikeIt? Not so much.

2008-11-18T09:08:00.010-06:00

***My day was jam-packed yesterday and I didn't get a chance to post an opening night capsule for American Buffalo.Last night marked the revival opening of David Mamet's American Buffalo at the Belasco Theatre.Robert Falls directs Tony-nominated John Leguizamo as Walter Cole, Cedric the Entertainer as Donny Dubrow, and Haley Joel Osment as Bobby. The opening of the revival is also Cedric's and

Gypsy to Close March 1st, or: "Say goodbye to blueberry pie."

2008-11-14T09:43:00.008-06:00

Variety reports that the astonishing revival of Jule Styne's Gypsy, starring the incomparable Patti LuPone and directed by original librettist Arthur Laurents, will take its final curtain call March 1, 2009.This really comes as no surprise as Ms. LuPone's contract ends on the same night. But it is good to see the show will not shutter earlier than expected due to economic hard times. The show

DidHeLikeIt.com Reviews, or: Electricity seems to hold over from London for BIlly Elliot

2008-11-14T09:22:00.009-06:00

Here is a collection of critic capsules from DidHeLikeIt.com for Billy Elliot - The Musical, which opened last night at the Imperial Theatre after starting previews October 1st.NEW YORK TIMES REVIEW: "Your inner dancer is calling. Its voice, sweet but tough and insistent, pulses in every molecule of the new Broadway musical Billy Elliot, demanding that you wake up sleeping fantasies of slipping

South Park's "Elementary School Musical" Episode, or: why the show is still extremely funny

2008-11-13T15:28:00.006-06:00

Sondheim himself said South Park: Bigger, Longer, and Uncut was the best original musical he had seen in years. So if you have yet to give South Park a chance, shame on you.In case you missed last night's episode of South Park (still one of the funniest shows on television), South Park Studios is streaming the full episode for viewing pleasure online here.And musical theater aficionados will

Billy Elliot Opening Night, or: two sides of the same blogging coin

2008-11-13T00:00:00.000-06:00

Tonight marks the American debut of the London box-office smash Billy Elliot: The Musical. The new musical, about a working-class boy with a talent and drive for dancing while living in the slums of London, opens at the Imperial Theatre after beginning previews October 1st.Elton John provides the score with Lee Hall supplying both lyrics and book. Peter Darling is responsible for the show's

August: Osage County Film a Reality, or: The Weinstein Co. is at it again

2008-11-12T10:26:00.015-06:00

It's nice to see many theater-related film projects coming through.My previously posted story of In the Heights green-light has had me giddy all weekend long.Possible prospects of Spring Awakening and Follies are giving me wet dreams.The recent Nine cast promo pic is intriguing (if only for Fergie's tramp-ish look).The film adaptation of Doubt is getting great buzz and will debut in limited

Circle Arts Theatre Founder Elizabeth Elliot's Final Bow, or: the death of the matriarch of local theater

2008-11-09T23:11:00.009-06:00

From the Herald-Zeitung of New Braunfels, TX:New Braunfels performing arts community lost the woman perhaps best described as the matriarch of local theater with the passing of Elizabeth Elliott.The founder and executive director of Circle Arts Theatre, Elliott was 76 when she died Saturday. She recently underwent surgery and had been unwell for some time.Elliott has influenced thousands of

Nine Cast Promo, or: Fergie and Hudson are not in the same league

2008-11-09T13:10:00.017-06:00

Thanks to Vance over at Tapeworthy for this.Judi Dench, Penélope Cruz, Marion Cotillard, Sophia Loren, Stacy Ferguson, Nicole Kidman, Kate Hudson and Guido himself, Daniel Day-Lewis in a promo shot for the upcoming film apatation of the Tony-winning musical Nine.I had no idea Kate Hudson was in the cast. And Fergie seems out of place in the pic. But really, what a cast. I love Nicole Kidman

A Tale of Two Cities to Close Even Sooner, or: "One 2 Day(s) More"

2008-11-07T16:49:00.006-06:00

Oh how bad I feel for the company members.Playbill.com reports that the producers of A Tale of Two Cities have announced a new closing date for the short-lived Broadway production. Previously reported to shutter on November 16th, the Jill Santoriello musical will now close November 9th, just two days after tonight's performance.This puts the total Broadway performance count for the Dickens-based

Heidi Blickenstaff to Play Ursula, or: some happy news for [tos]sers

2008-11-07T13:28:00.005-06:00

[title of show] gave me the opportunity to be able to feel connected to its creators and cast by way of its innovative book, creation process, and truly moving production. As a result, whenever I hear great news for anyone involved with the now-closed tuner, my heart skips a beat and I feel compelled to let more people know.So my congratulations to Heidi Blickenstaff for nabbing the juicy role

Further Plans for In the Heights Movie, or; Hudes' second chance

2008-11-07T12:53:00.007-06:00

Some exciting news:As I previously posted, plans for a movie version of the Tony-winning musical In the Heights are in the works. Now with Universal Pictures acquiring the rights to the film adaptation, those plans are now closer to manifesting.Lin-Manuel Miranda is expected to recreate his Tony-nominated role on screen as well as produce with ex-Miramax/Weinstein Co. production head Meryl

Hair to Play the Al Hirschfeld, or: damn that was fast

2008-11-05T13:31:00.009-06:00

And the answer to my question in my previous post: Hair: The American Tribal Love-Rock Musical.In just little over an hour since I asked the question who will take over the Al Hirshfeld Theatre post A Tale of Two Cities, Playbill.com provided the answer.The acclaimed production, directed by Diane Paulus, will begin previews at the Hirschfeld February 13, 2009. Opening night is scheduled for March

A Tale of Two Cities to Close on Broadway, or: the worst of times... I'm just gonna let you fill in the lame header.

2008-11-05T11:55:00.005-06:00

The producers of the new (apparently sucky) musical A Tale of Two Cities announced late November 4th that the tuner/make-shi(f)t Les Mis imitation will play its final performance November 16th.The show began previews August 19th and officially opened September 18th. After only 33 previews and what will be 68 regular performances, the show's producers cite the current economic crisis as a factor

Roger Ebert's Thoughts On the Election, or: and yet another reason to love the movie answer man (and America)

2008-11-05T09:31:00.005-06:00

If ever there is a great modern media writer, that man is Roger Ebert. He understands technology and knows how to use it to for purposeful enlightenment. He is perhaps the greatest blog writer today. He knows his audience. He knows his nation. He knows himself.Last night was historical. And Roger Ebert once again is able to so eloquently put in words what so many of us feel.Read his latest

More Pics of Election Day in New Braunfels, TX, or: how I spent my lunch hour

2008-11-04T12:00:00.008-06:00

Election Day in New Braunfels, TX, or: enthusiastic supporters for change

2008-11-04T10:27:00.005-06:00

Don't Vote!, or: Avenue Q's Bad Idea Bears on the Election

2008-10-29T11:03:00.002-05:00

Audra McDonald on Playbill.com, or: thank God I have two...

2008-10-16T12:48:00.003-05:00

As you may or may not know, I'm a huge Audra McDonald fan. I would give my left testicle to see her in anything she does. Yeah, I said it.Here's a brief interview from Playbill.com about her upcoming concert benefit Broadway Voices for Change for America Votes at the Al Hirshfeld Theatre.I knew I loved her for good reason.

Angela Lansbury in Blithe Spirit, or: how her (my) birthday (Broadway) wish came true

2008-10-16T12:25:00.007-05:00

Happy birthday to Sweeney goddess Angela Lansbury.Lansbury has performed in some of the greatest musical roles of all time (Nellie Lovett and Mama Rose!). And she is returning to Broadway in the Spring in, not a musical, but a classic Noël Coward comedy, Blithe Spirit.Lansbury will play psychic Madame Arcati in the revival of the ghostly comedy. She will join the previously announced Christine

All My Sons Opening Night, or: seminolishly classic Katie Holmes?

2008-10-16T11:31:00.003-05:00

Opening tonight at the Gerald Schoenfeld Theatre is the third Broadway revival of Arthur Miller's classic American drama All My Sons, concerning a business man, his past choices and their consequences, and his family during post-World War II.The production began previews (which have been playing to very full houses) at the Schoenfeld Sept. 18. With an official opening of Oct. 16, the limited

DidHeLikeIt.com Reviews, or: No he most certainly did not! (To Be Or Not To Be)

2008-10-15T10:04:00.013-05:00

To Be Or Not To Be, written by Nick Whitby and directed by Casey Nicholaw, opened last night at the at the Manhattan Theatre Club's Samuel J. Friedman Theatre. Here is an assessment of reviews compiled from DidHeLikeIt.com:NEW YORK TIMES REVIEW: "If the producers of the walking corpse of a comedy To Be or Not to Be are feeling unappreciated this morning — and it’s a safe bet that they are — here

Tag! I'm It, or: I hated being it as the little fat kid

2008-10-15T08:37:00.009-05:00

Oh SarahB. I heart you. Even if it means I'm it. As a child, there was nothing worse than being picked last for the football team, or being the first one out of a cruel game of dodgeball, or (not to say the least) being 'it.'But there was also nothing better than being an All-State tenor in the ridiculously competitive Texas high school UIL contests, or getting the biggest applause while

To Be or Not To Be Opening Night, or: do we really need another movie remake?

2008-10-14T15:24:00.013-05:00

To Be or Not To Be, the new stage version of Ernst Lubitsch's 1942 film comedy about Polish theatre troupers trying to outsmart the Nazis, opens tonight on Broadway at the Manhattan Theatre Club's Samuel J. Friedman Theatre (formerly the Biltmore).The production, which was originally scheduled to begin previews on Sept. 11, and then Sept. 13, began previews Sept. 16. The limited engagement plays

[title of show] closes, or: the night Heidi signed a Playbill "the Jonas Bros. suck ass."

2008-10-13T09:46:00.015-05:00

So [title of show] is now over. At 8:30 my time I shed a little tear for Hunter, Jeffy, Susan , and my favorite Nationwide Insurance girl, Heidi. But even though I am incredibly sad, I am extremely happy for the cast and crew. Extremely proud. And I can't wait for the amateur rights to become available.Here are some overdue pics from my trip to NYC this Summer and my journey to the stage door

The Raping of Indiana Jones, or: South Park still makes me laugh

2008-10-09T14:14:00.003-05:00

If anyone missed the season premiere of South Park last night, the best part of the show came when George Lucas and Steven Spielberg raped Indiana Jones in Stan's daydream. Literally.Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull comes out this week. So thank you South Park for telling it like it is. That movie did rape Indiana Jones. Hard and rough.

Spring Awakening & In the Heights to Hit the Big Screen, or: film as film, and stage as stage

2008-10-09T11:37:00.008-05:00

According to the Carnegie Hall website, "the Carnegie Hall Notables is a membership group specifically created for music enthusiasts in their 20s and 30s. The Notables program celebrates music through intimate discussions with musicians, concerts, private performances, and exclusive Notables-only social gatherings."At the October 6 Revival: Broadway's Next Act panel discussion, films of both Tony

DidHeLikeIt.com Reviews, or: A Man for All Seasons Some Tastes

2008-10-08T09:13:00.011-05:00

The first ever revival of Rober Bolt's A Man for All Seasons, starring consummate actor Frank Langella, arrived on the Great White Way last night. Here is an assessment of reviews compiled from DidHeLikeIt.com:NEW YORK TIMES REVIEW: "Is it heresay to whisper that the sainted Thomas More is a bit of a bore? Even Frank Langella, an actor who can be counted on to put the pepper in mashed-potato

A Man for All Seasons Opening Night, or: Frankie is at it again

2008-10-07T11:14:00.009-05:00

Tonight the curtain rises on the very first revival of Robert Bolt's A Man for All Seasons after starting previews September 12th.The new Roundabout Theatre Company production at the American Airlines Theatre stars Frank Langella (Frost/Nixon, Fortune's Fool, Seascape, Dracula) as Sir Thomas More, the anti-Protestant Lord Chancellor of England during the time when King Henry — desperate for a

Voter Registration, or: Rod, the next Elle Woods

2008-10-07T10:49:00.006-05:00

For those of you who didn't register to vote by yesterday's date, shame on you. The 6th of October was the voter registration cut-off date. Early voting begins later this month. Just do it.On a side note, the touring production of Avenue Q is making its way to San Antonio this week in the gorgeous Majestic Theatre. I have my tickets for Saturday night. Yay for puppet porn!

Tina Fey as Palin again, or: why SNL is only funny when Feylin is involved.

2008-10-06T11:28:00.004-05:00

I can't get enough of Tina Fey as Sarah Palin, or Feylin as some have coined her performance. I love when she uses the word 'maverick,' and I adore the way she winks and waves at the audience.One of the subjects nailed by the sketch was the confusion over gay marriage from both candidates. Watch. Listen. Love.

Vice-Presidential Debate as Theatre, or: reason number 5,983,746,510 why I love the movie answer man

2008-10-03T16:10:00.008-05:00

I love Roger Ebert for many reasons. His most recent blog entry is one of them. He talks of the vice-presidential debate last night and analyzes it based as theater and not as a political event.He opens with this:I have some observations about what we observed Thursday night. They are not political. They involve such matters as body language, facial expression and vocal tone. These are

Pushing Daisies & Private Practice Season Premieres, or: how Kristin and Audra come into my bedroom every Wednesday night

2008-10-01T15:49:00.007-05:00

The best new show from last season makes its second season return to the little screen that is television. Pushing Daisies remains the freshest and most whimsical show out there on network television (network and cable as a matter of fact). It stars every theatre person's favorite pint sized coloratura with a belt, the adorable Kristin Chenoweth, who should have won an Emmy for her performance

Blithe Spirit to Play Broadway in 2009, or: Ebersole vs. McDonald... round 2

2008-10-01T09:37:00.006-05:00

As everyone else in the blog world has already posted, Noël Coward's 1941 comedy Blithe Spirit will be making its way back to the Broadway stage in Spring 2009. The production itself is reason enough to celebrate, but even more reason to is due to the casting of the magnanimous Christine Ebersole as the ethereal Elvira.The 2007 Tony Award-winning actress, who played the dual roles of Little and

The Last Movie Star, or: how Newman's death represents the impending close to a great era

2008-09-30T11:14:00.003-05:00

From James over at ReelThoughts:With Paul Newman's death, they're almost all gone. By "they," I am referring to the movie stars - the legends of the silver screen whose images lit up the darkness for decades in movie palaces, drive-ins, and multiplexes across the country and around the world. Their names are legendary: Humphrey Bogart, John Wayne, Gregory Peck, Cary Grant, Katharine Hepburn,

Sketch Comedy Masters, or: the lost comedy stylings of Palin & McCain

2008-09-30T10:55:00.005-05:00

Over at the Chicago Sun-Times scanners blog, Jim Emerson illustrates just how easy Palin makes it for Tina Fey to show her genius. Palin and McCain are indeed masters of comedy in their own right. They were making comedy gold way before SNL, MadTV, and Fox News. Thanks Jim.Mr. Sondheim,Can you please make this into a musical? Thank you.

I'll cover you, Amanda; but you owe me 20 bucks, or: Rent (Live) at the Movies

2008-09-29T14:32:00.008-05:00

If you're like me and Chris and express a disappointment for the movie version of the musical Rent, then you will indeed be happy to know that the new filmed version of the now closed stage production is vastly superior. Titled Rent: Filmed Live on Broadway, the new cinecast still has the flaws of the material, but mostly, it provides an engaging preservation of the landmark show.Rent, in my

Some favorite shows...

2008-09-22T11:34:00.004-05:00

I like lists. I find that kind of funny considering I hate them, too. There's something appealing to me to see a clear and focused objective. It has the illusion of being definite. Final.The truth of the matter is that lists are anything but final or definitive. Countless individuals and organizations have created an infinite amount of Top 10 and Greatest of All Time lists of such varying

What to Expect...

2008-09-16T11:16:00.003-05:00

Wednesday - my 2002 and 2003 movie posts.Thursday - my 2004 and 2005 movie posts.Friday - August Osage County reviewIf I find time...August thoughts[title of show] review and thoughtsupdated site thingiesany worthwhile news that pops upalbum reviewsNYC trip stuff

Birthdays, work, weddings, babies... when you take a break from doing shows, a hellavuh lot of other things pop up.

2008-09-16T11:12:00.007-05:00

Ugh...What a crazy month since getting back from NY. I think I can finally start to relax and start writing and posting again on a regular basis.Woot woot.

"Did I just pee on myself?" or: the night I met Patti LuPone

2008-09-16T08:55:00.001-05:00

Note: No pictures yet. It's been a month and I still have my SD card in my friend's camera. she didn't pose for pics, but I did get some bad snapshots of her signing patrons playbills right next to me. Will post as soon as I can.So after reading my uber fancy review for Gypsy, I felt a little snooty. So here I am posting some personal thoughts and experiences about my Gypsy night in NYC,

A Happy Birthday Poem, or: the best way I know how to tell you I love you

2008-08-29T09:15:00.002-05:00

All my life you've been thereAny time and any whereWhen I was youngAnd even now that I am older.I have always knownYou've done the best you couldCircumstances change, lives changeBut family ties are strong.I want you to know how muchI respect what you have doneFor me, for others,And even for yourself.When problems knock you downYou just slowly, steadily,adjust your shouldersAnd then move on.Many

No Need for a Gimmick, Gypsy Is Astounding: Broadway Review

2008-08-25T13:37:00.014-05:00

Note: My recent trip to New York City allowed me to take in some exquisite shows. Here is my first review from my trip.Gypsy **** (out of ****)St. James TheatreNew York, NYOne of my favorite moments in the Broadway revival of Gypsy playing at the St. James Theater comes late in the first act. On stage we have Leigh Ann Larkin and Laura Benanti belting the melodic climax of the wonderful,

Raped in the Face: Hamlet Will Have His Revenge!!

2008-08-22T10:00:00.007-05:00

There is an awesome-ish titled movie coming out today by the name of Hamlet 2. I'll be heading out tonight to see the new comedy flick co-written by Andrew Fleming (Threesome, Dick) and Pam Brady (South Park: Bigger Longer & Uncut, Team America: World Police) and starring British actor Steve Coogan (Night at the Museum, Tropic Thunder), Catherine Keener (The 40-Year-Old Virgin), David Arquette (

A Cinematic Look Back: 2000 and 2001

2008-08-21T16:47:00.002-05:00

Note: In preparation for a future post discussing the uber brilliant film Wall•E, I'm posting my thoughts of some of this decade's most accomplished films.There have been some absolutely riveting and beautiful films made in recent years. A quick glance back to some of my favorite films of the last decade reveal an astonishing number of cinematic triumphs. Here are some musings on the years 2000-

Things I've Learned to Love About Obama

2008-08-21T13:32:00.006-05:00

"Despite the emergence of the Brown-Lippa-LaChiusa triptych and younger, DIY voices like Lopez/Marx and Joe Iconis and in the post-Larson era, no one writing today even approaches the emotional depth, harmonic complexity and the spiritual clarity evident in the work of the still-living legend Stephen Sondheim. Maybe Adam Guettel, but he supports drilling."Barack Obama on the late-period musical

Mr. Cladwell's Thoughts on "Little house on the Prairie"

2008-08-21T11:30:00.012-05:00

I love Byrd Bonner. Ever since I performed in Urinetown, the Muscial at the Sheldon Vexler Theatre in San Antonio, (still one of the best productions I've ever had the privelege to be a part of) where I met Byrd (a delectable Caldwell B. Cladwell), the man has been nothing but generous with his time with me. He's one of maybe 2-3 people I know personally who I can divulge in major Broadway and

Godspell Postponed. Amen.

2008-08-19T12:01:00.008-05:00

I guess it's official now. After many speculations in the past few days, it looks as if though we're gonna have to wait around a bit longer for the revival of Godspell.Apparently the shitty economy is at it again and has forced a huge backer to drop out. The production, which was to star Gavin Creel and "American Idol" finalist and Hairspray alum Diana Degarmo, was set to begin previews

I'm listening to the new Gypsy recording with Diva Lupone

2008-08-18T22:09:00.003-05:00

No lie. It's playing in my mp3 player as I type this. All 25+ tracks. I have it in advance. It is GLORIOUS.

Days Gone By

2008-08-18T17:02:00.003-05:00

So years ago, I had a blog entitled Joseph's Thoughts. It was a personal blog that was read by my close family and friends and then after a HUGE DEBACLE, was soon read by EVERYONE IN THE UNIVERSE. It was a ginormous source of therapy for me. Very funny. Perhaps a little mean-spirited, but always managed to make me laugh out loud. It also is responsible for some of the better things to happen

Thoughts on NYC Trip, or: Gray's Papaya indeed has baller hotdogs.

2008-08-18T10:55:00.009-05:00

Some thoughts on my recent New York trip… (to be followed by more detailed posts and reviews, I swear!)Internet access is a bitch if you don’t plan ahead.The George Washington Bridge is every bit as beautiful in real life as it’s onstage replica in In the Heights.You can always see actors at the stage door after a show, but if you chill out on 44th Street between Broadway and 8th Avenue around 6:

It's the final countdown!!!

2008-08-09T21:23:00.003-05:00

About 32.5 hours until NYC.Woot woot.

Back and Reinvigorated

2008-08-08T10:13:00.002-05:00

So I've totally been outty. And I miss this whole blog thing. And the people. Nothing motivates me more than some praise. And someone left a comment saying they loved to read my blog. Thanks Joie!Now time for some bullet posting!!!New York city trip!!!! WOOT WOOT!! I can't wait. I'll be in NYC Aug. 11-15 and I am planning on taking in as much theatre as possible. Thanks to SarahB for

YOU ROCK MY SOCKS OFF

2008-08-07T08:47:00.002-05:00

SarahB, you're awesome! Thanks!!

ok, ok... hi. my name is joseph. and i'm a smart ass.

2008-06-13T13:25:00.007-05:00

The only reason I'm posting this (other than for my own entertainment) is because I feel my blog still has a lot to grow into. It's pretty darn new. And besides my general layout and my title, there's very little I like design wise. My subtitle is lame-icious, unoriginal, and forced. My 'about me' section uses 'much appreciative' in a completely wrong way for the English language (let alone

New Braunfels Theatre Company presents Hello, Dolly!

2008-06-12T10:54:00.007-05:00

Tonight is my opening night in my hometown of New Braunfels, TX as Cornelius Hackl in Hello, Dolly! The show had its official opening weekend lask week, but becuase of many contributing factors, my understudy filled in for me while I finished my stint in San Antonio in Side Show at the Sheldon Vexler Theatre.I'm incredibly sad that I missed opening weekend. The show, from reports, seemed to

Shout Out!

2008-06-12T09:06:00.004-05:00

To SarahB over at Adventures in the Endless Pursuit of Entertainment for providing the first external link to my blog! On the right sidebar I'm cozily placed between Jan at Broadway & Me and Lani Anderson's The Drama Girl.I'm familiar with Broadway & Me; however, The Drama Girl was new to me. Turns out, Lani is from a small town in Texas - just like me! Very cool. And that's what I love about

2008 Tony Award Predictions – Part 3: Who Should Win (the Big Ones)

2008-06-11T11:56:00.013-05:00

So everyone is aware that the American Theatre Wing’s 62nd Annual Tony Awards will be presented on Sunday, June 15 at 8/7c on CBS. And if you’re a theater lover, well you’ve probably been blogging away on all things Tony for the past month. Or you’ve been giving your end of the year round-up on your favorite shows of the season.Well now it’s my turn in the spotlight. Steve on Broadway has done a

"I wish I could quit you!"

2008-06-11T09:04:00.006-05:00

New York City Opera is gonna do Brokeback Mountain - the OPERA!!! Minus the caps and exclamation point (I think). This is hilarious. I hope it's good. But they do have until 2013. Even if it sucks, I guarantee you I will be able to enjoy it. Yay for gay cowboys who sing opera!! Is anyone else ballsy enough to admit this is a tad bit ridiculous?? Anyone???? I know I'm not the only one. But quite

I am jealous of my understudy...

2008-06-11T08:59:00.004-05:00

Sorry for the recent "lack of posting." My run at Side Show ended and I started rehearsals for Honk! the following day. Plus, I open this Thursday (tomorrow!!) as Cornelius Hackl in Hello, Dolly! Oh and the critic from the New Braunfels Herald reviewed the show already - without me in it. I'm soooooo bitter. Stage rage is emanating from my ears.

The ever-increasing senility of Frank Scheck and Clive Barnes never ceases to amaze me.

2008-06-04T09:06:00.009-05:00

The fundamental respect shown for all the characters is refreshing: The show doesn't mock their religious fervor even when it's misguided or hypocritical. That quality may help secure a life for "Saved" -- even in its present, imperfect form -- as a viable property for school and youth-theater productions. But further development is needed for the fledgling show to find salvation in the

The Best Musical Revivals of All Time???

2008-06-03T09:48:00.018-05:00

The New York Times has a great piece today written by Ben Brantley about the 3 uber musical revivals this season. An excerpt:It’s rare that the race for best revival of a musical is the sexiest category at the Tony Awards, which will be bestowed this year on June 15 at Radio City Music Hall. But what’s most striking about “South Pacific” (first staged on Broadway in 1949) “Gypsy” (1959) and “

My Amazon.com review of A Catered Affair Original Broadway Cast Recording

2008-06-03T09:20:00.007-05:00

A Dreary AffairJune 2, 2008 By Joseph A. GomezAs was the general critical concensus, A Catered Affair, Harvey Fierstein (book and lyrics) and John Bucchino's (music) new kitchen sink musical, is far from perfect. Based on a 1956 movie, the musical remains a flawed show at best with some strong performances (and one entrirely ill-conceived interpretation). The show is filled with numerous

"Ghostlight! Oooh... Spooky!"

2008-05-29T13:33:00.004-05:00

Thanks to Man in Chair, I've been spending sometime at The Singing Stage.What a great selection!! From the fun ones to announce outloud - El Show De Terror De Rocky (2001 Peruvian Cast) - to the WTFs - Spider Man: the Musical (Demo CD), this site offers links to download full albums of cast recordings you never even knew existed. It's all too much for a musical theater geek who lives in Texas.

A little self-indulgence goes a long way.

2008-05-29T10:16:00.004-05:00

Ok time for a new post.I've been so uber (I love that word) busy the past month, I have yet to contribute anything worthwhile to the theatre-going blogosphere since my last clever post title concerning a certain ingenue in danger (see previous post). While the SOB Steve pumps out new posts everyday, I sit at work fighting sleep. And may I add, I lose the battle most of the time.My lack of

Did they just Taser Kelli O'Hara?? (cue abrupt and uncontrollable laughter)

2008-05-19T10:48:00.007-05:00

So the 53rd Drama Desk Awards were announced last night. And while the cast of [title of show] accomplished their goal to keep the ceremony under 3 hours (it clocked in at just under 2 and a half), they failed to make the "Deskies" entertaining for more than half an hour.I was hoping for more accolades for Adding Machine, however my wishes were not met. The top prize for Outstanding New Musical

Is that Vasoline in his hair?

2008-05-19T08:39:00.003-05:00

Anyone else think this Cubby Bernstein kid is ugly? I'm not trying to be mean - I just happen to think that he is not the most attractive 13-year old kid out there, that is all. It doesn't help that I don't think he is very funny. In correspondence with my friend Walter, I mentioned Cubby was "lame and spectacularly unfunny." Via text message, I continued my rant as I proceeded to call Cubby a "

Some thoughts on the Tony nominees, or: "Wah! Wahhh!" how Harvey Fierstein finally hit an F# without falling flat

2008-05-16T11:10:00.020-05:00

How can I express the pleasure I derive from other people's unhappiness without sounding like an ass? I can't. So I'm not gonna try. Harvey Fierstein, your self-indulgent little bomber of a show was dissed Tuesday morning out of the big categories to the surprise of most Broadway pundits (aka gay Jew-males who own Macs and video blogs). I'm sure there was a howl similar to Patti Lupone's when

Complete List of 2008 Tony Award Nominations

2008-05-13T12:04:00.005-05:00

The 2007-2008 Tony Award nominations were announced May 13 by Tony Award winners Sara Ramirez and David Hyde Pierce at the New York Public Library for the Performing Arts. Nominees for Best Musical include Cry-Baby, In the Heights, Passing Strange and Xanadu.Best Play:August: Osage CountyRock 'n' RollThe SeafarerThe 39 StepsBest Musical:Cry-BabyIn the HeightsPassing StrangeXanaduBest Book of a

2007-08 Tony Award Predictions, Part 2

2008-05-12T12:30:00.005-05:00

Best Performance by a Leading Actress in a Musical:Kerry Butler, XanaduPatti LuPone, GypsyKelli O'Hara, South PacificFaith Prince, A Catered AffairJenna Russell, Sunday in the Park with GeorgeThese women are my predictions. There is no one else on Broadway right now that is giving impressionable enough performances to compete with these women. There are a few worth mentioning (Mandy Gonzalez for

2007-08 Tony Award Predictions, Part 1

2008-05-12T11:19:00.023-05:00

New Musicals:A Catered AffairCry-BabyIn the HeightsThe Little MermaidPassing StrangeXanaduYoung FrankensteinIneligible - Glory DaysHere’s hoping on a transfer to the Great White Way for Adding Machine, probably the best new musical of the 2007-2008 season.Sara Krulwich/The New York TimesThe best new musical of the season, Adding Machine, a darkly satirical examination of the abuses of capitalism

My Amazon.com review of 110 in the Shade 2007 Broadway Cast Recording

2008-01-07T14:23:00.005-06:00

Fantastic Recording of an Underrated Show with a Glorious Lead Performance, January 7, 2008 By Joseph A. GomezWhat more can be said about the glorious Audra McDonald that hasn't been said already? The woman is a gift; a bizarrely immense talent of truly legendary proportions. No one should be this good (or in an ideal world, everyone should be this good). And what she alone is able to bring to a

My Amazon.com review of Sweeney Todd: the Demon Barber of Fleet Street Original Broadway Cast Recording

2008-01-03T12:32:00.004-06:00

The Best Musical Theatre Has To Offer, January 3, 2008 By Joseph A. GomezSweeney Todd: the Demon Barber of Fleet Street may be the greatest thing to ever happen to musical theatre. A Grand Guignol masterpiece, Stephen Sondheim broke down all barriers of the musical genre. Yes, it's a grisly story involving cannibalism and throat slashing; but it is also a genuinely moving tragedy that contains