Well folks, here we are again with another exciting new season of dazzling shows to share with you! We’ve got a little bit of everything for you this spring, from lavish and original musicals to enthralling dramas with mega-watt stars! Here’s a look at the fantastic shows coming our way as well as the long-standing hits that continue to thrill audiences!
What's New and Hot!
They’re creepy and they’re kooky! So watch out! The world’s most famously eccentric and macabre family are moving to Broadway this season in the eagerly anticipated new musical THE ADDAMS FAMILY, starring Nathan Lane and Bebe Neuwirth as the ghoulishly hilarious Gomez and Morticia Addams!
If your groups are looking for a thrillingly original new show, then they won’t be disappointed withMEMPHIS: A NEW MUSICAL. Set in the racially divided South of the 1950’s, this groundbreaking new show follows Huey Calhoun, a young white radio DJ who falls in love with a black singer and the rock music that bridges racial divides.
Brand new to the Broadway boards is an exciting revival of Sondheim’s much beloved musical comedy A LITTLE NIGHT MUSIC, starring the legendary Angela Lansbury and Academy Award Winner Catherine Zeta-Jones!
The romantic musical comedy PROMISES, PROMISES by Neil Simon and Burt Bacharach will return to Broadway starring the wonderful Kristin Chenoweth and Sean Hayes (TV’s Will & Grace).
If your groups are Stephen Sondheim fans, then they won’t want to miss the brand new musical SONDHEIM ON SONDHEIM. Featuring Barbara Cook, Vanessa Williams and Tom Wopat. This documentary style musical uses interview footage of the acclaimed Composer along with his music to give an inside look at his personal life and artistic process.
Your groups are bound to have a ball at the hilarious cross-dressing musical LA CAGE AUX FOLLESstarring Kelsey Grammer, which will transfer to Broadway from it’s critically acclaimed run in London.
World-renowned choreographer Twyla Tharp (Movin’ Out) is bringing her new show COME FLY AWAYto Broadway this March. This romantic and beautiful new dance filled musical is set to the legendary music and seductive vocals of Frank Sinatra and a live 19-piece big band!
Direct from its critically acclaimed and sold out run in London’s West End, the new musical ENRON starring Broadway star Norbert Leo Butz, opens this Spring. Based on one of the most infamous scandals in financial history, the show uses music, dance and video to shed light on the world’s current economic turmoil.
For a perfect combination of music and comedy, your groups should not miss ALL ABOUT ME, which pairs the fabulous Michael Feinstein performing a wonderful selection of old and new musical standards, with the glamorously irreverent Dame Edna holding reign over her theatrical realm.
Another new Memphis set musical coming soon is MILLION DOLLAR QUARTETstarring Hunter Foster, based on the true story of a momentous Sun Records recording session that brought together rock music legends Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, Carl Perkins and Elvis Presley!
If your groups are fans of RENT and Spring Awakening, they will love the brand new rock-musical AMERICAN IDIOT. This young and edgy new show uses the songs and lyrics of the hugely popular rock band Green Day to tell an electrifying tale of young Americans searching for meaning in a time of change and war.
Musical Mayhem!
With 10 Tony awards under it’s dance-belt, including best new musical and best actor for all 3 of it’s leads,BILLY ELLIOT: THE MUSICALhas it all; a beautiful score by Elton John, a tremendously uplifting story, glorious sets and breathtaking choreography.
The Landmark American musical WEST SIDE STORY has made a long awaited return to Broadway in an exciting fully re-vamped new production. This epic tale of star-crossed lovers is one of the most heart-breaking, relevant and innovative musical masterpieces of our time.
Remember the 60’s? The peace rallies, the free love, Woodstock? Well, even if you weren’t around for all of that, or maybe just don’t remember being there, you can experience it all with the Tony award winning Broadway revival HAIR: THE AMERICAN TRIBAL LOVE-ROCK MUSICAL.
For lovers of 80’s Rock, you won’t want to miss ROCK OF AGES, the ultimate hair band tribute musical that has received glowing reviews. The rock-comedy stars Constantine Maroulis of American Idol fame and is set to classic hits from such iconic rockers as STYX, Journey and Bon Jovi.
If you want a musical that has a touching story and leaves a powerful impression, then NEXT TO NORMALis the show to see. This effecting show stars Alice Ripley in a Tony award winning performance as a suburban mother struggling to maintain her sanity, while her family tries to hold the pieces around her together.
Theatergoers and critics alike have been raving about the new Broadway production of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s SOUTH PACIFIC. This spectacular production took home 7 Tony Awards in 2008, including best musical revival. Your groups are in store for “Some Enchanted Evening!”
IN THE HEIGHTS, which walked away with the Tony Award for best new musical in 2008, is a refreshingly young and energetic show with a terrific hip-hop and salsa score that tells of the joys, heartbreaks and bonds of a Latino community struggling to redefine home in Washington Heights, New York.
For the Drama Queens!
America’s foremost playwright, David Mamet’s controversial new drama RACE has arrived to much acclaim starring James Spader, David Allen Grier and Kerry Washington. Another recent arrival is Arthur Miller’s gripping drama A VIEW FROM THE BRIDGEstarring film star Scarlett Johansson and Tony Award winner Liev Schreiber.
Coming in March is the first Broadway revival of William Gibson’s THE MIRACLE WORKER starring Abigail Breslin (Little Miss Sunshine) as Helen Keller and film and TV star Allison Pill as Annie Sullivan, the extraordinary teacher who taught her to communicate.
With stellar reviews and an all-star cast, you must not miss Yasmina Reza’s new play GOD OF CARNAGE. Starring Jimmy Smits, Annie Potts and Christine Lahti, this modern dark comedy about parents behaving like children is the play to be beat!
Tony Award nominee Stanley Tucci will make his Broadway directorial debut this April with the backstage comedyLEND ME A TENORstarring Anthony LaPaglia and Tony Shalhoub (TV’s “Monk”)
Two-time Academy Award winner Denzel Washington returns to Broadway, along with Tony winner and Academy Award nominee Viola Davis (Doubt), in FENCES, August Wilson’s monumental Pulitzer Prize and Tony Award-winning play.
Another star-studded play arriving this spring is the world premiere of Martin McDonagh’s hilarious new black comedy,A BEHANDING IN SPOKANE starring Christopher Walken, Sam Rockwell, Anthony Mackie and Zoe Kazan!
For something on the lighter side, your groups will go loopy with laughter when they see the new comedy LOOPED starring Valerie Harper as the outrageous legendary actress and original celebrity bad girl Tallulah Bankhead!
The Broadway Staples
Looking for a guaranteed hit that your groups are bound to enjoy? Then don’t forget about all the old favorites. JERSEY BOYS is sure to be right at the top of your list. It won the 2006 Tony award for Best Musical and is as popular as ever!
Another audience favorite is WICKED - the story of the witches of Oz prior to young Dorothy’s arrival. It is still casting its spell eight times a week at the Gershwin Theatre.
If you prefer to catch a little disco-fever, give the hit ABBA musical MAMMA MIAa try. You are sure to leave the theatre feeling like a “Dancing Queen.” And speaking of dancing divas – the merry mistresses of murderers row, Velma Kelly and Roxie Hart, are still knocking them dead every night in CHICAGO at The Ambassador Theatre.
For a little bit of Disney magic, THE LION KING is still wowing audiences and families with its sensational sets and costumes. Also,MARY POPPINS is still flying kites and giving plenty of spoonfuls of sugar, and both children and adults love it!
That’s all for now folks! Until next time, we’re Maxwell Group Entertainment, here for all your group… and single ticketing needs.
~ Rich, Rick and Phyllis
2009 Tonys!
Its Springtime again! The
flowers are blooming! And with so many wonderful new productions
and revivals, its bound to be another exciting Tony
Season! Its the year of the play and with so many
phenomenal dramatic performances this year its bound
to be a tough fight! All of us here at Maxwell groups
are putting on our gloves and waiting for the bell to
ring! So watch out! Phyllis has a mean left hook! Here
our picks:
Without a doubt, the most exciting
and critically acclaimed new show of the season is BILLY
ELLIOT: THE MUSICAL. With 15 Tony nominations including
best musical and best lead actor for all 3 Billys, this
show has it all; a beautiful score by Elton John, a
tremendously uplifting story, glorious sets and breathtaking
choreography. Phyllis has been wearing a tutu and spinning
pirouettes all around the office. Shes making
us dizzy!
Fun for the entire family, SHREK
THE MUSICAL is a perfect choice for the young and
the young at heart! Based on the hilarious 2001 DreamWorks
animated film, this modern fairy-tale, starring Tony
Nominated Brian dArcy James in the title role,
follows the comic adventures of a misunderstood enormously
green ogre and a wise-cracking donkey!
The Landmark American musical WEST
SIDE STORY has made a long awaited return to Broadway
in an exciting fully re-vamped new production. Nominated
for best musical revival, this epic tale of star-crossed
lovers and their struggle to be together in a world
of violence, hate and prejudice is one of the most heart-breaking,
relevant and innovative musical masterpieces of our
time.
Remember the 60s? The peace rallies,
the free love, Woodstock, but most of all, the mountains
and mountains of hair? Well, even if you werent
around for all of that, or maybe just dont remember
being there, you can experience it all again with the
8 time Tony nominated Broadway revival HAIR:
THE AMERICAN TRIBAL LOVE-ROCK MUSICAL.
Are you sick and tired of the 9-5 workweek
blues? Then take a break and go see the brand new musical
9 TO 5! Based on the popular hit movie and with
twenty new songs from Dolly Parton and a cast that includes
Tony nominated Allison Janney (TVs West Wing),
Stephanie J. Block and Megan Hilty, this fun-filled
new show will make going back to the office much more
exciting!
Feeling like you need a little lady luck
these days? Well, then you should not miss the Tony
nominated new revival of the classic musical
GUYS AND DOLLS. With an all-star cast that includes
Oliver Platt and Lauren Graham (of TVs Gilmore
Girls fame), this production is bound to leave both
guys and dolls snapping their fingers and singing along.
For lovers of 80s Rock, you wont
want to miss ROCK OF AGES,
the ultimate hair band tribute musical that has received
a Tony nom for best musical and glowing reviews. The
rock-comedy stars Constantine Maroulis of American Idol
fame and is set to classic hits from such iconic rockers
as STYX, Journey and Bon Jovi.
If you want a musical that has a touching
story and leaves a powerful impression, then NEXT
TO NORMAL is the show to see. With 11 Tony nominations
including Best Musical, this modern and edgy show stars
Alice Ripley in a Tony nominated performance as a suburban
mother struggling to maintain her sanity, while her
family tries to hold the pieces around her together.
Theatergoers and critics alike have been
raving about the new Broadway production of Rodgers
and Hammersteins SOUTH
PACIFIC. This spectacular production took home 7
Tony Awards last year, including best musical revival.
With a beautiful score by Rodgers and Hammerstein and
one of the most groundbreaking books of its time, your
groups are in store for Some Enchanted Evening!
IN THE
HEIGHTS, which walked away with the Tony Award for
best new musical last year, is a refreshingly young
and energetic show with a terrific hip-hop and salsa
score that tells of the joys, heartbreaks and bonds
of a Latino community struggling to redefine home in
Washington Heights, New York.
The gigantic and bound to be spectacular
new musical extravaganza SPIDER-MAN:
TURN OFF THE DARK directed by Julie Taymor (Lion
King) with music by U2s Bono and The Edge, will
swing in on its mega-budget web in Spring of 2010
with film stars Jim Sturgess (21, Across The Universe)
and Evan Rachel Wood (The Wrestler, Across The Universe)
rumored to star.
The 1960s rock nroll smash
hit BYE BYE BIRDIE returns
to Broadway this fall for the first time in almost 50
years! Starring John Stamos, Gina Gershon, Bill Irwin
and Jayne Houdyshell, this beloved classic is a sure
fire hit for audiences of all ages!
For the Drama Queens!
With stellar reviews and an all-star
cast, you must not miss Yasmina Rezas new play
GOD OF CARNAGE. With Tony noms for best play and
for the entire cast, which includes Jeff Daniels, Hope
Davis, James Gandolfini and Marcia Gay Harden, this
modern dark comedy about parents behaving like children
is the play to be beat!
Alan Ayckbourns comic trilogy,
THE NORMAN CONQUESTS
made a thrilling return to Broadway this season, garnering
rave reviews as well as 7 Tony nominations! These masterpieces
of British comedy center on Norman, an immature man-child,
who attempts to woo three women at once on a weekend
excursion in the English countryside. The 3 plays can
be seen individually or all together!
The Broadway Staples!
Looking for a guaranteed hit that
your group is bound to enjoy? Then dont forget
about all the old favorites. JERSEY
BOYS is sure to be right at the top of your list.
It won the 2006 Tony award for Best Musical and is as
popular as ever!
Another audience favorite is WICKED
- the story of the witches of Oz prior to young Dorothys
arrival. It is still casting its spell eight times a
week at the Gershwin Theatre.
If you prefer to catch a little disco-fever,
give the hit ABBA musical MAMMA
MIA a try. You are sure to leave the theatre feeling
like a Dancing Queen. And speaking of dancing
divas the merry mistresses of murderers row,
Velma Kelly and Roxie Hart, are still knocking them
dead every night in CHICAGO at The Ambassador Theatre.
For a little bit of Disney magic, THE
LION KING is still wowing audiences and families
with its sensational sets and costumes. Also, MARY
POPPINS is still flying kites and giving plenty
of spoonfuls of sugar, and both children and adults
love it! And Disneys latest addition, THE
LITTLE MERMAID, is making waves with families and
audiences of all ages!
Thats all for now folks! Until
next time, were Maxwell Group Entertainment, here
for all your group and single ticketing needs.
~ Rich, Rick and Phyllis
Spring 2009
We hope you all had a fantastic
Holiday season and a very happy New Year! As Im
sure many of you have heard, Broadway took a few blows
this year with curtains permanently going down on several
beloved hits such as Hairspray, Spamelot and Spring
Awakening. However, dont despair! Its not
all doom and gloom in the theater world this season.
Many of the closings were expected due to shows that
had limited engagements or that were already winding
down after having long successful runs. And while Mel
Brooks colossal monster of a show Young Frankenstein
is most certainly dead, Broadway is STILL alive and
kicking! With many dazzling new productions on the horizon
that are ready to fill in some of the gaps left behind,
Broadway promises to be brighter than ever this year.
From innovative revivals to star-studded dramas to beloved
long-running hits, Phyllis, Rick and I, as always, will
be here to fill you in on all the latest hits, news
and reviews. Heres a look at whats in store
for your groups in 2009!
Whats Hot, hot,
hot right now!
Without a doubt, the most exciting
and critically acclaimed new show of the season is BILLY
ELLIOT: THE MUSICAL. This show has it all, a beautiful
score by Elton John, a tremendously uplifting story,
glorious sets and dancing that has made audiences gasp
in amazement and burst into spontaneous standing ovations
in the middle of the show! The New York Post called
it A nonstop runaway blockbuster of a smash. The
best show you will ever see! Based on the successful
British film, BILLY
ELLIOT focuses on the moving journey of a young
boy growing up in a working class mining town in Northern
England with dreams of becoming a ballet dancer. Ever
since she went to see it, Phyllis has been wearing a
tutu and spinning pirouettes all around the office.
Shes making us dizzy!
If you are looking for a great show for
kids and families, then SHREK
THE MUSICAL is a perfect choice! The New York Times
calls the show True Happiness. Shrek The Musical
is definitely a cut above, in the best tradition of
screwball comedy. Based on the hilarious 2001
DreamWorks animated film, this modern fairy-tale, starring
Brian dArcy James and Sutton Foster, follows the
comic adventures of a misunderstood enormously green
ogre who, with the help of a wise-cracking donkey, must
rescue a damsel in distress who has a surprising secret
of her own.
Theatergoers and critics alike have been
raving about the new Broadway production of Rodgers
and Hammersteins SOUTH
PACIFIC. The Washington Post declares it The
Best Revival of Rodgers & Hammerstein in a generation,
and all of us here at Maxwell Groups whole-heartedly
agree! This spectacular production took home 7 Tony
Awards last year, including best musical revival, best
leading actor and best director. With a beautiful score
by Rodgers and Hammerstein and one of the most groundbreaking
books of its time, your groups are in store for Some
Enchanted Evening!
If you and your groups are in the mood
for something refreshingly modern and different, you
should definitely check out IN
THE HEIGHTS, which walked away with the coveted
Tony Award for best new musical last year. This young
and energetic show has a fantastic hip-hop and salsa
score that will have you wanting to break dance in the
aisles. The award winning hit, that critics have been
calling an absolutely wonderful, true New York
story, tells of the joys, heartbreaks and bonds
of a Latino community struggling to redefine home in
Washington Heights, New York.
Looking for a show to leave you and your
groups Bewitched, Bothered and Bewildered?
Then dont miss out on the Rogers and Hart masterwork
PAL JOEY currently playing
at Studio 54. With an updated and revised book by Richard
Greenberg and starring the wonderful Stockard Channing
and Martha Plimpton, PAL
JOEY tells the story of Joey Evans, a scheming and
manipulative song and dance man with dreams of opening
his own night-club in the seedy of streets of 1930s
Chicago.
If you are craving some real drama in
your life, look no further than Tracy Letts new
play, AUGUST: OSAGE COUNTY.
After its critically acclaimed run at Chicagos
Steppenwolf Theatre Company, it received the Tony for
best play, actress and featured actress and a slew of
phenomenal reviews on Broadway. The Times said its
flat-out, no asterisks and without qualifications,
the most exciting American play Broadway has seen in
years. It doesnt get better than that folks!
The tale surrounds the Weston family and their deliciously
manipulative mother. It is a living room drama that
is so poignant and hilarious that it would make Eugene
ONeill jealous.
Are you a fan of Hitchcock films and
slapstick? Then youre in for a real treat with
ALFRED HITCHCOCKS
THE 39 STEPS, which transferred to Broadway after
a highly successful run in London and at the Roundabout
Theatre Company. The New York Times calls it Absurdly
enjoyable! This hilarious spoof of classic Hitchcock
and British spy thrillers is brought to life by a talented
cast of 4 who play a minimum of 150 roles. The story
revolves around an innocent man who learns too much
about a dangerous spy ring and is then pursued in a
zany chase across Scotland, before returning to London
to foil the villains dastardly plans.
Musical Mayhem!
The Landmark American musical WEST
SIDE STORY makes a long awaited return to Broadway
this March in an exciting fully re-vamped new production
directed by two-time Tony Award winner Arthur Laurents.
This version will present a much more authentic portrayal
of modern gang life and will use Spanish and English
throughout both the book and songs. The show and its
cast have already received glowing reviews for its pre-Broadway
run. The Washington Post raved about the newly discovered
young Argentinean actress Josefina Scaglione who stars
as Maria gushing Its love at first sight
for us as well as for Tony. This epic tale of
star-crossed lovers and their struggle to be together
in a world of violence, hate and prejudice is one of
the most heart-breaking, relevant and innovative musical
masterpieces of our time.
Are you sick and tired of the 9-5 workweek
blues? We know sometimes its enough to drive
you crazy if you let it! So, take a break and
go see the brand new musical 9
TO 5! Based, of course, on the popular hit movie.
With twenty new songs from seven-time Grammy Award winner
Dolly Parton, a book by original screenwriter Patricia
Resnick, direction by Tony winner Joe Mantello (Wicked)
and a cast that includes Allison Janney (TVs West
Wing), Stephanie J. Block, Megan Hilty and Marc Kudisch,
this fun-filled new show will make going back to the
office much more exciting!
If youre feeling like you need
a little lady luck this spring, then you should not
miss the new revival of the classic 1950s musical
GUYS AND DOLLS, arriving
at the Nederlander Theater this March. With a fantastic
cast that includes Oliver Platt as the desperate gambler
Nathan Detroit, Lauren Graham (of TVs Gilmore
Girls fame) as the perpetually congested show-girl Miss
Adelaide and Craig Bierko as the smooth-talking high-roller
Sky Masterson, this production is bound to leave both
guys and dolls in the audience snapping their fingers
and singing along.
Remember the 60s? The peace rallies,
the free love, Woodstock, but most of all, the mountains
and mountains of hair? Well, even if you werent
around for all of that, or maybe just dont remember
being there, you can experience it all again with the
upcoming Broadway revival of the hippie rock spectacular
HAIR: THE AMERICAN TRIBAL LOVE-ROCK
MUSICAL. After an extremely successful and critically
acclaimed production at the Public Theaters Delacorte
Theater in Central Park last summer, the show makes
its move to Broadway this March. Phyllis is sporting
a giant afro and bell-bottoms and cant wait for
this new age of Aquarius!
Do you ever think back to those friends
you made back in high school that you havent seen
or heard from in years and wonder, where they are now?
Why did we lose touch in the first place? Well, now
is the perfect time to reconnect and bring them to the
truly original new musical THE
STORY OF MY LIFE. Starring Will Chase (RENT, AIDA)
and Tony Award nominee Malcolm Gets (Merrily We Roll
Along, Caroline in the City) this two hander
tells the profoundly funny and deeply moving tale of
lifelong best friends. Its a musical about friendship,
the personal cost of success and the choices we make
at the turning points in our lives. This show will make
you want to contact all those lost friends and reminisce
about the amazing times you shared.
After winning the best musical Tony award
in 2000 for their innovative and critically acclaimed
Contact, director/choreographer Susan Stroman and writer
John Weidman have reunited with the brand new musical
HAPPINESS, which will begin performances at Lincoln
Center Theater this March. The production unfolds the
stories of a dozen or so New Yorkers stuck in the morning
rush of a stalled subway car (many of us can relate
to that!) and required by the spectral trainman to recall
and re-enact the happiest moment in their lives before
they can continue their travels... and travails. Wouldnt
that be an interesting morning work commute!
If you are a lover of 80s Rock,
its time to break out the glitter eye-makeup and
those old spandex pants in the back of your closet because
you wont want to miss ROCK
OF AGES, the ultimate hair band tribute musical
that is arriving this April after developing a cult
following off Broadway. Set to classic hits from such
iconic rockers as REO Speedwagon, STYX, Journey, Bon
Jovi, Pat Benatar, Twisted Sister, White Snake and Poison,
the tongue in cheek comedy follows the story of a young
80s rocker hoping for his big break who falls
for the small town girl chasing big dreams of her own.
Phyllis is so excited she has started dressing like
Gene Simmons from KISS and practicing her air-guitar
every day!
Aside from the shows already mentioned,
there are quite a few new musicals on the horizon for
the 2009/2010 Season. Here are just a few of the most
eagerly anticipated shows in the works at this very
moment! The gigantic and bound to be spectacular new
Julie Taymor (Lion King) extravaganza SPIDER-MAN plans
to swing in on its mega-budget web with film stars
Jim Sturgess (21, Across The Universe) and Evan Rachel
Wood (The Wrestler, Across The Universe) rumored to
star as everyones favorite arachnid super-hero
and his sweet-heart Mary-Jane. Another comic book and
film inspired project being planned is THE ADDAMS FAMILY,
with Nathan Lane and Bebe Neuwirth mentioned to play
the ghoulishly hilarious Gomez and Morticia Addams.
Also in development is a screen to stage adaptation
of Stephen Spielbergs critically successful 2002
comedic film, CATCH ME IF YOU CAN, with a book by Terrance
McNally and music by Marc Shaiman (Hairspray). There
is also a rumor out there that Sir Andrew Lloyd Webbers
Phantom sequel may make its way to a Broadway stage
at the end of this year well keep you posted!
For the Drama Queens!
Have you ever wondered if there
might be ghosts hovering about in your attic? Well,
before you attempt to raise the dead, you should come
out to see the revival of Noel Coward's classic British
Comedy BLITHE SPIRIT
returning to Broadway this February. With an all-star
cast, this brilliantly witty story concerns socialite
and novelist Charles Condomine (Rupert Everett), who
is haunted by the ghost of his first wife, Elvira (Christine
Ebersole) following a séance held by the eccentric
medium and clairvoyant, Madame Arcati (the legendary
Angela Lansbury). Elvira makes continuous attempts to
disrupt Charles' marriage to his second wife, Ruth.
It will make you think twice about breaking out that
ouija board!
For all you fine-art lovers out there,
you won't want to miss the brand new play IMPRESSIONISM
by Michael Jacobs arriving on Broadway this March. Starring
Two Tony winners and brilliant stars of stage and screen,
the magnificent Joan Allen and Jeremy Irons, the play
focuses on the story of a world traveling photojournalist
and a New York gallery owner who discover each other
and realize that there might be an art to repairing
their own broken lives. The production will mark Ms.
Allen's first return to Broadway since The Heidi Chronicles
in 1989, and Mr. Irons' first time on Broadway since
The Real Thing in 1984!
Making a surprise return to Broadway
this Spring after nearly 45 years is the magnificent
Jane Fonda, starring in the brand new play 33
VARIATIONS by Tony nominated playwright Moises Kaufman
(The Laramie Project) Kaufman's play weaves Beethoven's
artistic journey with that of Katherine (Fonda), a musicologist
deciphering clues left behind in Beethoven's notebooks
and letters and wondering about her own obsession with
genius. Also starring Colin Hanks and Samantha Mathis,
this play is bound to leave lovers of both theater and
classical music astounded with this brilliant examination
of Beethoven's artistic legacy.
After winning a Tony Award for best Original
Play for her brilliantly comedic play Art in 1998, Yasmina
Rezas new play GOD
OF CARNAGE makes a move to Broadway this spring
after an extremely successful run on the West End. Boasting
a tremendously talented cast of stage and screen luminaries
such as Jeff Daniels, Hope Davis, James Gandolfini and
Marcia Gay Harden, this modern dark comedy deals with
the aftermath of a playground altercation between two
boys and the chaos that ensues when the parents of both
children meet to discuss the incident. Apparently apples
really dont fall far from the tree!
It is definitely the season for daring
new revivals of theatrical classics headed by phenomenal
all-star casts. Heres a sampling of the best,
not-to-be-missed plays coming very soon to a Broadway
stage. Tony and Emmy award winner Mary Louise Parker
(Weeds, Fried Green Tomatoes) makes a thrilling return
to Broadway this season in a revival of Ibsen's dramatic
masterpiece HEDDA GABLER.
Arriving in March is Eugene Ionescos absurdist
comedy EXIT THE KING
starring Academy award winners Geoffrey Rush and Susan
Sarandon, both making their Broadway debuts! A new version
of Friedrich Schillers classic drama MARY
STUART transfers from a sold out run on the West
End starring Janet McTeer as Mary, Queen of Scots. Yet
another star-filled revival coming this April is a new
production of Samuel Becketts absurdist masterpiece
WAITING FOR GODOT featuring
Nathan Lane, John Goodman, David Strathairn and Bill
Irwin. And in other news, Neil Simons beloved
semi-autobiographical plays BRIGHTON BEACH MEMOIRS and
BROADWAY BOUND will return to the New York stage presented
in rotating rep. Whew! Thats a lot of drama! And
a whole lot of stars!
The Broadway Staples!
Looking for a guaranteed hit that
your group is bound to enjoy? Then dont forget
about all the old favorites. JERSEY
BOYS is sure to be right at the top of your list.
It won the 2006 Tony award for Best Musical and is as
popular as ever!
Another audience favorite is WICKED
- the story of the witches of Oz prior to young Dorothys
arrival. It is still casting its spell eight times a
week at the Gershwin Theatre.
If you prefer to catch a little disco-fever,
give the hit ABBA musical MAMMA
MIA a try. You are sure to leave the theatre feeling
like a Dancing Queen. And speaking of dancing
divas the merry mistresses of murderers row,
Velma Kelly and Roxie Hart, are still knocking them
dead every night in CHICAGO
at The Ambassador Theatre. With a killer score by Broadway
legends Kander and Ebb this show will shock and delight
and all that jazz.
For a little bit of Disney magic, THE
LION KING is still wowing audiences and families
with its sensational sets and costumes. With music by
Elton John and lyrics by Tim Rice, THE
LION KING has become not only a Disney staple, but
a Broadway staple as well. Also, MARY
POPPINS is still flying kites and giving plenty
of spoonfuls of sugar, and both children and adults
love it! And Disneys latest addition, THE
LITTLE MERMAID, is making waves with families and
audiences of all ages, so you may want to make this
much-beloved fairy-tale extravaganza part of your
world!
Thats all for now folks! Until
next time, were Maxwell Group Entertainment, here
for all your group and single ticketing needs.
~ Rich, Rick and Phyllis
Fall 2008
Well folks, the summer has officially come to an end and
now that the excitement of the Summer Olympics is over,
let the Broadway Olympics begin! Phyllis has been busy
practicing her gymnastics floor routine, Rick is perfecting
his back stroke, and Ive been running laps around
Times Square, dodging taxis and leaping over hurdles of
tourists. All in preparation for a new season that is
jam-packed with fresh and exciting shows that will keep
you and your theatre groups buzzing with excitement! Were
looking to bring you the Broadway gold, so here are some
highlights of the many new shows this season, as well
as a selection of the reliably popular shows that have
stood the test of time.
Whats Hot, hot, hot right
now!
Theatregoers and critics alike have been
raving about the new Broadway production of Rodgers
and Hammersteins SOUTH
PACIFIC. The Washington Post declares it The
Best Revival of Rodgers & Hammerstein in a generation,
and all of us here at Maxwell Groups whole-heartedly
agree! This spectacular production took home 7 Tony
Awards this year, including best musical revival, best
leading actor and best director. With a beautiful score
by Rodgers and Hammerstein and one of the most groundbreaking
books of its time, your groups are in store for Some
Enchanted Evening!
The jaw-droppingly powerful new production of Arthur
Laurents definitive Broadway classic, GYPSY,
is a show not to be missed. The New York Times describes
it as Intoxicating! A wallop-packing production
And who else would be packing that wallop than the legendary
Broadway diva, Patti Lupone, who took home the Tony
this year as Mamma Rose. The definitive show-biz musical
tells the story of Louise (Tony winner Laura Benanti),
the awkward daughter of an unstoppably ambitious stage
mother. When her pretty sister runs away from the family's
minor vaudeville act, Louise tries to fulfill her mother's
dreams.
If you and your groups are in the mood for something
refreshingly modern and different, you should definitely
check out IN THE HEIGHTS,
which walked away with the coveted Tony Award for best
new musical this year. This young and energetic show
has a fantastic hip-hop and salsa score that will have
you wanting to break dance in the aisles. The award
winning hit, that critics have been calling an
absolutely wonderful, true New York story, tells
of the joys, heartbreaks and bonds of a Latino community
struggling to redefine home in Washington Heights, New
York.
The enduring Charles Dickens novel A
TALE OF TWO CITIES has made its way to Broadway
in a sweeping new production. The magnificent James
Barbour (Broadways Beauty and the Beast) steals
the show as Sydney Carton, the alcoholic, dissipated
English barrister who attempts to redeem his ill-spent
life in the ultimate act of self-sacrifice. Set against
the backdrop of the French Revolution, this is an epic
story about injustice, vengeance and the redemptive
power of love.
For the Drama
Queens!
If you are craving some real drama in
your life, look no further than Tracy Letts new
play, AUGUST: OSAGE COUNTY.
After its critically acclaimed run at Chicagos
Steppenwolf Theatre Company, it received the Tony for
best play, actress and featured actress and a slew of
phenomenal reviews on Broadway. The Times said its
flat-out, no asterisks and without qualifications,
the most exciting American play Broadway has seen in
years. It doesnt get better than that folks!
The tale surrounds the Weston family and their deliciously
manipulative mother. It is a living room drama that
is so poignant and hilarious that it would make Eugene
ONeill jealous.
Are you a fan of Hitchcock films and slapstick? Then
youre in for a real treat with ALFRED
HITCHCOCKS THE 39 STEPS, which transferred
to Broadway after a highly successful run in London
and at the Roundabout Theatre Company. The New York
Times calls it Absurdly enjoyable! This
hilarious spoof of classic Hitchcock and British spy
thrillers is brought to life by a talented cast of 4
who play a minimum of 150 roles. The story revolves
around an innocent man who learns too much about a dangerous
spy ring and is then pursued in a zany chase across
Scotland, before returning to London to foil the villains
dastardly plans.
Also new to Broadway is the swinging 60s British
farce, BOEING-BOEING.
After becoming a smash hit in London, the recently transferred
production picked up a Tony for best play revival and
a best actor award for Mark Rylances wonderfully
hilarious performance. The New York Times calls it PURE
PLEASURE and UNCONDITIONAL BLISS! It soars right out
of its time zone and into some stratosphere of classic
comedy. The old-fashioned French farce follows
the adventures of a Paris bachelor whos juggling
affairs with three airline stewardesses. Dont
you wish flying could be that much fun?
After a very successful run in London, the revival of
Peter Shaffers darkly dramatic play EQUUS
has arrived on Broadway at the Broadhurst Theatre. Starring
everybodys favorite boy wizard Daniel Radcliffe
as well as the wonderful Richard Griffiths (History
Boys), this play is a far cry from Harry Potter, as
it deals with a psychologically disturbed young man
and the therapist who attempts to understand him. There
are adult themes and on-stage nudity, so this definitely
is not a show for the kids.
The critically acclaimed transfer of Ian Ricksons
production of Chekhovs classic, THE
SEAGULL, has also made its move from across the
pond. Starring the magnificent Kristin Scott Thomas
who won the Oliver in London, and film and stage actor
Peter Sarsgaard, fans of Chekhov will not be disappointed.
Set on a country estate in Russia at the end of the
19th century, the play tells of the romantic and artistic
conflicts that develop between a fading leading lady,
her troubled playwright son, the young ingénue
whom he loves and a visiting successful novelist.
If you love classic dramas, but are looking for something
a little more all-American, then look no further than
the revival of Arthur Millers masterpiece,
ALL MY SONS. The production boasts a phenomenal
all-star cast including John Lithgow, Dianne Weist,
Patrick Wilson and Ms. Cruise herself, Katie Holmes.
Based on a true story, Millers play tells the
controversial tale of a successful businessman who knowingly
sold the government defective airplane parts during
World War II. When his son marries his business partners
daughter, the truth is revealed and his life begins
to unravel at the seams. This production is a limited
engagement, so be sure to book your tickets now.
And for those history buffs out there, you absolutely
cannot miss out on Robert Bolts extraordinary
historical drama A MAN
FOR ALL SEASONS, which stars 3 time Tony winner
Frank Langella. The timeless show is based on the fascinating
true story of English Chancellor Sir Thomas More and
his moral objection to King Henry VIIIs plan to
leave the Catholic Church. Exploring issues of politics,
religion and power, the play proves to be not only a
powerful examination of history, but of todays
society as well.
Coming Soon!
The most talked about and highly anticipated
show of the season is without a doubt BILLY
ELLIOT: THE MUSICAL, beginning previews this October!
After a tremendously successful run on the West End,
this entertaining and touching show, with a brilliant
score by Elton John, is sure to be a big hit. Based
on the successful British film, BILLY ELLIOT focuses
on the journey of a young boy growing up in a tough,
working class town with dreams of becoming a ballet
dancer. This uplifting musical will tug on your heartstrings
and fill you with wonder at the triumph of a childs
spirit against staggering odds.
Are you sick and tired of the 9-5 workweek blues? We
know sometimes its enough to drive you crazy
if you let it! So, take a break and go see the
brand new musical 9 TO 5!
based of course on the popular hit movie. This exciting
new show arrives on Broadway in March. With twenty new
songs from seven-time Grammy Award winner Dolly Parton,
a book by original screenwriter Patricia Resnick, direction
by Tony winner Joe Mantello (Wicked) and a star-studded
cast that includes Allison Janney (TVs West Wing),
Stephanie J. Block, Megan Hilty and Marc Kudisch, this
fun-filled new show will make going back to the office
much more exciting!
If you are looking for a great show for kids and families,
then SHREK THE MUSICAL
is a great choice. Based on the hilarious 2001 DreamWorks
animated film, this modern fairy-tale, starring Brian
dArcy James and Sutton Foster, follows the comic
adventures of a misunderstood enormously green ogre
who, with the help of a wise-cracking donkey, must rescue
a damsel in distress who has a surprising secret of
her own.
Now that summer is over, people are already starting
to think about the holidays. And what are the holidays
without being entertained by the magical story of White
Christmas. Well, for the first time ever, families can
enjoy this heart-warming tale live on stage in IRVING
BERLINS WHITE CHRISTMAS. This brand new stage
adaptation of the beloved film will arrive on Broadway
for a limited run this holiday season. Full of dancing,
laughter and some of the greatest songs ever written,
WHITE CHRISTMAS promises to be New Yorks newest
holiday tradition. So, whether it snows or not, you
will be guaranteed a White Christmas and a merry and
bright holiday filled with joy and cheer!
The Landmark American musical WEST
SIDE STORY makes a long awaited return to Broadway
in an exciting fully re-vamped new production directed
by two-time Tony Award winner Arthur Laurents. Laurents
states that This show will prove to be radically
different that any other production of West Side Story
ever done. This version will present a much more
authentic and gritty portrayal of modern gang life and
will use both Spanish and English throughout both the
book and songs. This epic tale of star-crossed lovers
and their struggle to be together in a world of violence,
hate and prejudice is one of the most heart-breaking,
relevant and innovative musical masterpieces of our
time.
Looking for a show to leave you and your groups Bewitched,
Bothered and Bewildered? Then dont miss
out on the Rogers and Hart masterwork PAL
JOEY which opens at Studio 54 this December. With
an updated and revised book by Richard Greenberg and
starring Stockard Channing, Tony Winner Christian Hoff
(Jersey Boys) and Martha Plimpton, PAL JOEY tells the
story of Joey Evans, a scheming and manipulative song
and dance man with dreams of opening his own night-club
in the seedy of streets of 1930s Chicago.
Where did you sit in your high-schools cafeteria?
Was it with the Jocks? The Nerds? The Cheerleaders?
Well, whichever group you fell into, its time
to relive those formative, hormone raging years in the
brand new, and certainly young musical 13,
which will make its move to Broadway this October. With
music from Tony Award-winner Jason Robert Brown, this
show is bound to have lots of energy as it stars an
all-teen cast backed up by an all-teen band. It follows
the life of a 13 year old New York boy on the verge
of manhood, whos life is turned upside down when
his father leaves with an air-hostess, and his mom moves
him to a small town in the Midwest.
If youre a Mamet fanatic, then you are in for
a real treat as two of his beloved dramas are making
their way to Broadway stages this fall. AMERICAN
BUFFALO, starring John Leguizamo, Cedric the Entertainer
and Academy Award nominee Haley Joel Osment, follows
three small-time crooks that fall somewhat short of
accomplishing their big criminal dreams. And SPEED
THE PLOW with Jeremy Piven (TVs Entourage)
and Raul Esparza (Broadways Company) playing two
film producers eager to impress the Studio Head with
the next big blockbuster, unfortunately for them, the
sexy new secretary (Elisabeth Moss of TVs Mad
Men) has her own plan to tear them apart. With his trade-mark
rapid-fire comedic dialogue and fantastic all-star casts,
both shows will not disappoint fans of Mamet and his
unique brand of humor.
And finally, whats a Broadway season without a
good old-fashioned dysfunctional family drama? And this
time its brought to you by one of Americas
leading playwrights, the Pulitzer prize winning
Horton Foote, with his new play, DIVIDING
THE ESTATE. Set in Texas in 1987, during the height
of the recession, the play focuses on three generations
of the Gordon Family, who have gathered for a dinner
in which the topics of conversation include inheritance
tax, bankruptcy, foreclosure and a host of family resentments
and jealousies that have been brewing under the surface.
Pass the salt anyone? Described as the modern Chekhov,
Foote is able to bring a lightness and humor to his
characters that make his plays an utter delight to watch.
The Broadway
Staples!
Looking for a guaranteed hit that your
group is bound to enjoy? Then dont forget about
all the old favorites. JERSEY
BOYS is sure to be right at the top of your list.
It won the 2006 Tony award for Best Musical and is as
popular as ever!
Another audience favorite is WICKED
- the story of the witches of Oz prior to young Dorothys
arrival. It is still casting its spell eight times a
week at the Gershwin Theatre.
After winning the Tony for best new musical last year,
SPRING AWAKENING
has continued to be a smash hit. With a wonderfully
original rock score by Grammy nominated recording star
Duncan Sheik, SPRING AWAKENING is a moving coming of
age story about a group of teenagers living in Germany
in 1891, who must overcome a variety of personal and
emotional struggles. There are adult themes and brief
on-stage nudity, so this show is recommended for more
mature audiences.
And now for something completely different,
British comedy lovers will definitely want to see MONTY
PYTHONS SPAMALOT. Based on the infamous Holy
Grail movie, it is an absolute laugh a minute
musical comedy that is sure to delight.
If you prefer to catch a little disco-fever, give the
hit ABBA musical MAMMA
MIA a try. You are sure to leave the theatre feeling
like a Dancing Queen. And speaking of dancing
divas the merry mistresses of murderers row,
Velma Kelly and Roxie Hart, are still knocking them
dead every night in CHICAGO
at The Ambassador Theatre. With a killer score by Broadway
legends Kander and Ebb this show will shock and delight
and all that jazz.
For a little bit of Disney magic, THE
LION KING is still wowing audiences and families
with its sensational sets and costumes. With music by
Elton John and lyrics by Tim Rice, THE
LION KING has become not only a Disney staple, but
a Broadway staple as well. Also, MARY
POPPINS is still flying kites and giving plenty
of spoonfuls of sugar, and both children and adults
love it! And Disneys latest addition, THE
LITTLE MERMAID, is making waves with families and
audiences of all ages, so you may want to make this
much-beloved fairy-tale extravaganza part of your
world!
Thats all for now folks! Until next time, were
Maxwell Group Entertainment, here for all your group
and single ticketing needs.
~ Rick,
Rich and Phyllis
Spring 2008
Its that time of year again for all you musical
lovers and drama buffs! And no, Im not talking about
spring cleaning; Im talking about the 2008 Tony
Awards dahlings! And all of us here at Maxwell Groups
are just as excited! Phyllis has been strutting around
the office like a prized hen, flaunting a new spring wardrobe
and glamorous new hair-do to prepare for the upcoming
celebration of truly thrilling new productions! So, as
always, we would love to share with you our picks for
these prestigious awards:
Theatre-goers and critics alike have been
raving about the first Broadway revival ever of Rodgers
and Hammersteins South
Pacific. The Washington Post declares it The
Best Revival of Rodgers & Hammerstein in a generation,
and all of us here at Maxwell Groups whole-heartedly
agree! The beloved classic stars a magnificent Kelli
OHara who returns to Broadway as Nellie Forbush,
the hometown girl from Little Rock, who serves as a
U.S. Navy nurse on a tropical island in the Pacific
during World War II. With a beautiful score by Rodgers
and Hammerstein and one of the most groundbreaking books
of its time, South
Pacific is a classic that is not to be missed!
Another critically acclaimed revival this season is
the jaw-droppingly powerful new production of Gypsy.
The New York Times describes it as Intoxicating!
A wallop-packing production And who else would
be packing that wallop than the legendary Broadway diva,
Patti Lupone, who stars as Mamma Rose. The definitive
show-biz musical tells the story of Louise, the awkward
daughter of an unstoppably ambitious stage mother. When
her pretty sister runs away from the family's minor
vaudeville act, Louise tries to fulfill her mother's
dreams. But it's not until trouping with Mama dwindles
to appearing in burlesque, that Louise finally finds
pleasure in the spotlight.
If youre in the mood for something new and different,
you should check out In
The Heights. This young and energetic show has a
fantastic hip-hop and salsa score that will have you
wanting to break dance in the aisles. The award winning
hit, that critics have been calling an absolutely
wonderful, true New York story, tells of the joys,
heartbreaks and bonds of a Latino community struggling
to redefine home in Washington Heights, New York.
Another brilliantly original new show is Passing
Strange, a bohemian themed musical that has been
rocking the worlds of both critics and audiences. The
Wall Street Journal says that its The freshest
musical in town! The songs rock harder than anything
else on Broadway. Passing
Strange is a coming-of-age musical that follows
a young African-American mans voyage of self discovery
as he leaves his middle class upbringing in Los Angeles
and travels the globe in pursuit of love, happiness
and a sense of identity. With an exciting and catchy
rock score, you will be ready to drop everything and
book the next flight to Europe - after booking a trip
to come see the show of course!
If you love musicals and also love old black and white
movies, you will want to see A
CATERED AFFAIR. Based on the 1956 classic film starring
Bette Davis and Ernest Borgnine, this heart-warming
show has received 12 Drama Desk nominations and critics
are calling it an elegant, romantic production
that shines with authentic emotions In 1953, relationships
are strained to the limit when a Bronx couple must choose
whether to spend their life savings on a family business
or to launch their only daughter's marriage with a lavish
party. This funny and touching new musical by John Bucchino
and Harvey Fierstein, stars Broadway giants Faith Prince,
Harvey Fierstein and Tom Wopat. This show is an affair
to be remembered.
For all you art lovers out there, you are in for a real
treat with the Broadway revival of Stephen Sondheims
Pulitzer Prize winning SUNDAY
IN THE PARK WITH GEORGE. The current production
transferred from London where it won the prestigious
Olivier award. It has received rave reviews and The
Times declared it a ravishing epiphany of artistic
harmony. The musical chronicles the life of maverick
French impressionist painter Georges Seurat during the
creation of his now celebrated masterpiece, "Sunday
on La Grande Jatte-1884." In the second half, set
in 1980s New York, Seurats great-grandson
struggles with his own search for inspiration in the
world of contemporary art. This is a gem of a musical
that celebrates a true artistic genius.
Are you a rebel at heart? Whether youre a motorcycle-driving
rocker from the wrong side of the tracks or a suit and
tie-sporting square, youll love the new Broadway
musical Cry-Baby.
Based on the 90s movie-musical directed by Hairsprays
John Waters, this spoof of 1950s films tells the
tale of Wade Cry-Baby Walker, a bad boy
with a heart of gold who falls for a good girl from
Suburbia. With brilliant choreography by Rob Ashford,
Cry-Baby is a show that will leave you dance-happy.
For the Drama Queens!
If you are craving some real drama in
your life, look no further than Tracy Letts new
play, August:
Osage County. After its critically acclaimed
run at Chicagos Steppenwolf Theatre Company, it
received phenomenal reviews on Broadway and has been
extended for an open-ended run. The Times said its
flat-out, no asterisks and without qualifications,
the most exciting American play Broadway has seen in
years. It doesnt get better than that folks!
The tale surrounds the Weston family and their deliciously
manipulative mother. It is a living room drama that
is so poignant and hilarious that it would make Eugene
ONeill jealous.
If you are a fan of Hitchcock films and slapstick, then
youre in for a real treat with Alfred Hitchcock's
The
39 Steps, which transferred to Broadway after a
highly successful run in London and at the Roundabout
Theatre Company. The New York Times calls it Absurdly
enjoyable! This hilarious spoof of classic Hitchcock
and British spy thrillers is brought to life by a talented
cast of 4 who play a minimum of 150 roles. The story
revolves around an innocent man who learns too much
about a dangerous spy ring and is then pursued in a
zany chase across Scotland, before returning to London
to foil the villains dastardly plans.
Also new to Broadway is the swinging 60s British
farce, Boeing-Boeing.
After becoming a smash hit in London, the recently transferred
production stars Christine Baranski, Bradley Whitford,
Mary McCormack, Mark Rylance and Gina Gershon. Hows
that for an all-star cast! The New York Times calls
it PURE PLEASURE and UNCONDITIONAL BLISS! It soars
right out of its time zone and into some stratosphere
of classic comedy. The old-fashioned French farce
follows the adventures of a Paris bachelor whos
juggling affairs with three airline stewardesses. Dont
you wish flying could be that much fun?
Coming Soon!
The highly anticipated BILLY
ELLIOT: THE MUSICAL is making its way to Broadway
this September after a tremendously successful run on
the West End. This entertaining and touching show, with
music by Elton John, is sure to be a big hit. Based
on the successful British film, BILLY
ELLIOT focuses on the journey of a young boy growing
up in a tough, working class town with dreams of becoming
a ballet dancer. This musical will tug on your heart-strings
and fill you with wonder at the triumph of a childs
spirit against staggering odds.
Also coming in the fall is SHREK
THE MUSICAL. Based on the hilarious 2001 DreamWorks
animated film and starring Brian dArcy James and
Sutton Foster, this modern fairy-tale follows the comic
adventures of a misunderstood enormously green ogre
who, with the help of a wise-cracking donkey, must rescue
a damsel in distress who has a surprising secret of
her own.
The classic Charles Dickens novel A
TALE OF TWO CITIES will come to glorious life on
Broadway this August in a sweeping new production. Set
against the backdrop of the French Revolution, this
is an epic story about injustice, vengeance and the
redemptive power of love. The show received critical
acclaim at its world premiere in Sarasota, FL.
The hit off-Broadway musical
[TITLE OF SHOW] (yes, thats the name of the
show) will be making its move to Broadway this July.
This witty and highly comical show within a show chronicles
the comedic struggles of two young writers taking on
the seemingly impossible task of creating a new musical
about creating a new musical. Confused? Thats
part of the fun in this truly original and unique new
production.
After a very successful run in London, the revival of
Peter Shaffers darkly dramatic play EQUUS
will arrive on Broadway this September. Starring everybodys
favorite boy wizard Daniel Radcliffe and Richard Griffiths,
this play is a far cry from Harry Potter, as it deals
with a psychologically disturbed young man and the therapist
who attempts to understand him. There are adult themes
and on-stage nudity, so this definitely is not a show
for the kids.
And finally, the brand new, and certainly young musical
13, will be making a move
to Broadway after playing at the Mark Taper in Los Angeles
and Goodspeed in Connecticut. This show is bound to
have lots of energy as it stars an all-teen cast backed
up by an all-teen band. It follows the life of a 13
year old New York boy on the verge of manhood, whos
life is turned upside down when his father leaves with
an air-hostess, and his mom moves him to a small town
in the Midwest.
The Broadway Staples!
Looking for a guaranteed hit that your
group is bound to enjoy? Then dont forget about
all the old favorites. JERSEY
BOYS is sure to be right at the top of your list.
It won the 2006 Tony award for Best Musical and is as
popular as ever! It tells the story of Frankie Valli
and the Four Seasons, and contains all their classic
hits. You are sure to leave the theatre singing Oh,
What a Night!
Another audience favorite is WICKED
- the story of the witches of Oz prior to young Dorothys
arrival. It is still casting its spell eight times a
week at the Gershwin Theatre. If your group is in the
mood for some rock and roll, RENT is the show for them.
Now in its 12th and final year on Broadway, RENT,
is still bringing down the house every night with its
anthem Seasons of Love. A modern day retelling
of the opera La Boheme, the show has a brilliant
rock score by Jonathan Larson, and it will be closing
the first week in September, so dont miss out!
After winning the Tony for best new musical last year,
SPRING
AWAKENING has continued to be a smash hit. With
a wonderfully original rock score by Grammy nominated
recording star Duncan Sheik, SPRING
AWAKENING is a moving coming of age story about
a group of teenagers living in Germany in 1891, who
must overcome a variety of personal and emotional struggles.
There are adult themes and brief on-stage nudity, so
this show is recommended for more mature audiences.
And now for something completely different,
British comedy lovers will definitely want to see MONTY
PYTHONS SPAMALOT. Based on the infamous Holy
Grail movie, it is an absolute laugh a minute
musical comedy that is sure to delight. Also based on
a comedy film classic is Mel Brooks new musical
YOUNG
FRANKENSTEIN. This hilarious spoof of 50s
fright films will have you in stitches and howling with
laughter.
If you love poodle skirts and bee-hive hair-dos, then
you must catch the outrageously campy musical HAIRSPRAY,
based on the hit John Waters film about the pleasantly-plump
Tracy Turnblad and her bee-bopping time on the Corny
Collins TV dance show. Or, if you prefer to catch
a little disco-fever, give the hit ABBA musical MAMMA
MIA a try. You are sure to leave the theatre feeling
like a Dancing Queen. And speaking of dancing
divas the merry mistresses of murderers row,
Velma Kelly and Roxie Hart, are still knocking them
dead every night in CHICAGO
at The Ambassador Theatre. With a killer score by Broadway
legends Kander and Ebb this show will shock and delight
and all that jazz.
For a little bit of Disney magic, THE
LION KING is still wowing audiences and families
with its sensational sets and costumes. With music by
Elton John and lyrics by Tim Rice, THE
LION KING has become not only a Disney classic,
but a Broadway classic as well. Also, MARY POPPINS is
still flying kites and giving plenty of spoonfuls of
sugar, and both children and adults love it! And Disneys
latest addition,
THE LITTLE MERMAID, is making waves with families
and audiences of all ages, so you may want to make this
much-beloved fairy-tale extravaganza part of your
world!
If you want to go back to your childhood, try the foul
mouthed puppets of AVENUE
Q on for size. This hilarious musical that hosts
a group of the most jaded puppets ever rejected from
Sesame Street, is still playing to packed houses at
the Golden Theatre. This show does have adult-muppet
themes, so mature audiences of all species are recommended.
If you miss the days of roller-disco and campy 80s
films, then break out the roller-skates and wheel on
over to XANADU.
A satirical take on the cult 80s movie starring
Olivia Newton-John, it is the story of a Greek muse
who comes to earth to inspire an artist to open a roller
rink. And whether you are a blonde or not, you will
like, OMG, totally love LEGALLY
BLONDE, the musical version of the hit movie. Especially
now that MTV will be airing a new reality series in
June to find the musicals next blonde starlet!
And last, but not least, the classic musical A
CHORUS LINE is still bringing down the house night
after night at the Schoenfeld Theatre. The current revival
contains all the original staging and choreography developed
by Broadway legend Michael Bennett and is currently
starring television star Mario Lopez of Saved By the
Bell fame.
Thats all for now folks! Time for us to start
getting ready for the festivities! Phyllis is getting
her nails done, Rick is ironing his tux, and Im
patching the holes in my jeans! Until next time, were
Maxwell Group Entertainment, here for all your group
and single ticketing needs.