Tag Archives: Hollywood

Musical Review: Reefer Madness, The Musical

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The war on drugs, whether real or imaginary, is not a new concept in America. Reefer Madness, the original film, was premiered in 1936 as a cautionary tale. In 1937, the Marihuana Tax Act came into effect, leading to the criminalization of the drug. With this federal prohibition in mind, Reefer Madness, The Musical takes the audience back in time, presenting the use of cannabis not as a moral lesson, but as a parody of the general panic of the 1930s.

With a few tweaks here and there, the musical sticks pretty much to the original story. Jack (David T. Crane) and Mae (Nicole Parker) are pushing marijuana out of their home, marked with the number 420. Hanging out at their place is Ralph (Andre Joseph Aultmon), a college dropout hooked on weed. Another character in the house is Sally (Jane Papageorge), also addicted to marijuana. She ends up selling her kid while heavily stoned. Jimmy (Anthony Norman) and Mary (Darcy Rose Byrnes) are the lovebirds who also succumb to the Devil’s lettuce.

The choreography is energetic, including tap dancing and some disco moves during Jesus’ (Rory O’Malley) number, “Listen to Jesus, Jimmy”. The inclusion of Jesus and the Devil as the two moral opposites give the musical an edge and a satirical element to the core of the story.

The red lighting symbolizing the sexual awakening and the dangers of criminal activity conveys effectively the situation of the characters: Living in the fast lane; tragedy just around the corner. The innuendos of BDSM and the presence of the Devil make the musical numbers even more sinful and attractive.

In terms of text, the book by Kevin Murphy & Dan Studney is playful and gives the actors plenty of opportunities to shine through the delivery of their lines and the physical comedy involved in the action. The two characters showing the most important transformations are Mary and Jimmy, but it is Mary who changes more dramatically. From a naïve girl to the vixen sadist with a whip, she embodies the aggressive loss of inhibitions, all thanks to the use of marijuana. The text pays homage to Mae West as well. Sally delivers one of West’s most famous lines involving feet and inches, but backwards.

Director and choreographer Spencer Liff does a fantastic job utilizing the excellent elements at his disposal. He unifies the talent and creative components of this production to present a kinky, hilarious, and engaging performance. The limits of legality and the temptation of illegality contribute to create an alluring story that becomes timeless and reflects our complicated relationship with a humble plant that has been used by humans for thousands of years.

Reefer Madness, The Musical

The Historic Whitley Theatre

6555 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, CA

Extended through Sunday, October 27

Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays & Saturdays at 8pm; Sundays at 2pm.

Tickets: reefermadness.com

Book by Kevin Murphy & Dan Studney. Lyrics by Kevin Murphy. Music by Dan Studney. Musical Direction by David Lamoureux. Direction and Choreography by Spencer Liff. REEFER MADNESS THE MUSICAL is executive produced by Wendy Parker and co-produced by Maia Falconi-Sachs, Madison Mohn, Nick Padgett, Matthew A. Rosenthal, Jason Turchin, Amirose Eisenbach, Josie Yount, and Raji Kalra. Presented by Kristen Bell, Christian Campbell, Alan Cumming, Andy Fickman, Kevin Murphy, America Olivo, and Dan Studney.

Cast: Anthony Norman, Darcy Rose Byrnes, J. Elaine Marcos, Nicole Parker, Thomas Dekker, Bryan Daniel Porter, Andre Joseph Aultmon, Claire Crause, Jane Papageorge, Alex Tho, David T. Crane, Rory O’Malley, and Natalie Holt MacDonald.

Creative team: Production Design by Mark A. Dahl; Lighting Design by Matt Richter; Sound Design by Charles Glaudini; Costume Design by Pinwheel Pinwheel. The Casting is by Michael Donovan, CSA and Richie Ferris, CSA. The Production Stage Manager is Melissa Ritcher. The Company Manager is Paul Nygro.

Music band: David Lamoreaux (Conductor/Drums), Jordan Lamoreaux (Bass), Max Wagner (Guitar), Andrew Lederman (Keyboard 1), and David Catalan (Keyboard 2).

Performance Review: Tom Ciurczak at The Whisky A Go Go

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With a six-member band, Tom Ciurczak performed on Thursday Aug 15 at the famous Whisky A Go Go in Hollywood. Influenced by Bruce Springsteen, Ciurczak infuses his music with a nostalgic hint of Americana and pop that creates catchy melodies and lyrics that reflect the realities of life.

Besides Bruce Springsteen, Ciurczak also pays tribute to The Beatles, Peter Gabriel, Tom Petty, and the great music from the 70s. Smoothing down the music with a Hammond keyboard, the band delivered a refreshing and melodic sound reminiscent of the 70s and 80s, when rock music topped the charts.

The band performed “Small Town Girls”, an ode to New York, the innocence and toughness of life in small town America, and the yearnings of an Army veteran. One of the best songs in Ciurczak’s catalog.

Also in the playlist was “Mexican Jail”, a true story about Tom in Tijuana. Friends, prison, and Federales. How much better can it get?

The highlight of the performance was “I Ain’t Ever Growing Up”, a song that can be the soundtrack of many of us in showbiz. Life responsibilities and one’s passion, which one to follow?

Overall, it was a fantastic performance at one of the most iconic places in Hollywood. You can learn more about Tom Ciurczak’s music, releases, photos, videos, and more on his website: tomciurczak.com

Instagram: @tokyotommy58

Musical Review: Scissorhands: A Musical Tribute

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Scissorhands: A Musical Tribute is presented by Bradley Bredeweg, Kelley Parker, and Mad World Inventions. Written by Bradley Bredeweg and Kate Pazakis. Directed by Bradley Bredeweg. Produced by Bradley Bredeweg, Lance Bass, and Kelley Parker.

Gothic and mystic, Edward Scissorhands is a romantic story of isolation and acceptance by the brilliant mind of Tim Burton. And now, this fascinating tale is revamped in Scissorhands: A Musical Tribute. Featuring a killer score, this musical includes “Trouble” and “Shallow” to make it more contemporaneous and revive the drama and the romance of the original film. This proves to be a smart move by the producers, as the songs create a special connection with the audience.

As for the performances, Emma Hunton (The Nightlesque Before Grinchmas, Exorcistic The Rock Musical, CLUELESQUE) continues to show her magnetic skills both as an actress and singer. She has been steadily performing in some of the most exciting musicals and burlesque shows in town. For the role of Peg, she creates an endearing character as the loving and accepting mother of Scissorhands (Jordan Kai Burnett). One of the actors that brings some of the funniest lines in the show is Ryan O’Connor as Helen/Bill/Host. His timing delivers comedy at its best, bringing lots of laughs and demonstrating that excellent music and comedy are a winning combination for a successful show. The cast put together for this production achieve a very positive reaction from the audience due to their comedy and singing skills, creating an energetic vibe all around.

The visuals, as in the movie, are an important factor to capture the enigmatic and dark world of Scissorhands. In this musical, the lighting (Darren Langer) and scenic design (James Connelly) recreate the German Expressionism that is typical in Burton’s productions. The shadows and contrast highlight the gothic elements of the story and mix well with the pastel colors of some of the characters’ costumes (Benjamin Holtrop, costume designer). The background projections and the special effects add a special and creative touch to this production, a homage to some of the most iconic scenes in the original film.

Do not miss the opportunity to take a look at the fantastic and endearing world of Scissorhands. There’s romance, comedy, and vibrant live music that make this musical a world-class production.

Scissorhands: A Musical Tribute

Cast: Jordan Kai Burnett, Carly Casey, Alex Ellis, Dionne Gipson, Carson Higgins, Emma Hunton, John Krause, Natalie Masini, and Ryan O’Connor.

The Bourbon Room
6356 Hollywood Boulevard
Los Angeles, CA, 90028

Upcoming shows:

Jan 6, 07:00 pm | 10:00 pm
Jan 7, 02:00 pm
Jan 11, 07:30 pm
Jan 12, 07:00 pm | 10:00 pm
Jan 14, 02:00 pm

Tickets: scissorhandsmusical.com/tickets

Written by Bradley Bredeweg and Kate Pazakis. Directed by Bradley Bredeweg. Produced by Bradley Bredeweg, Lance Bass, and Kelley Parker. Co-produced by Chadd McMillan, Jeff Wickline and Josh Robers. Creative team: Musical Direction by Gregory Nabours. Choreography by SaraAnne Fahey. Costume Design by Benjamin Holtrop. Production Design by James Connelly. Lighting Design by Darren Langer.

A scene from Scissorhands: A Musical Tribute
A scene from Scissorhands: A Musical Tribute
A scene from Scissorhands: A Musical Tribute

Burlesque Review: The Nightlesque Before Grinchmas

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The creative minds of Cherry Poppins bring the holidays spirit to a whole new level with a spectacular display of naughtiness and sensuality. The Nightlesque Before Grinchmas combines the dark ambiance of The Nightmare Before Christmas and the mischievous spirit of How The Grinch Stole Christmas. With this show, the ensemble creates a fun and lively extravaganza to kick off this Christmas season at the iconic Bourbon Room in Hollywood.

In this blended world of two classic films, The Grinch marries his crush Martha. They kidnap Cindy and move to Christmas Town, where Jack embarks on a mission to kidnap Santa Claus. As chaos takes over, the characters find love and a higher sense in life, discovering the real meaning of Christmas.

Luscious vixens, stripper poles, mad scientists, and aerialists all converge in a sexy tale of love and desire, delivering an electrifying and touching performance with alluring dances and a killer score with live music.

Cherry Poppins continue to put together the best burlesque shows in town, delivering an exciting mix of writing, dance, music, and production value that is both mesmerizing and innovative.

The Nightlesque Before Grinchmas

The Bourbon Room
6356 Hollywood Boulevard
Los Angeles, CA, 90028

Mondays and Tuesdays Dec 11th, 12th, 18th and 19th

Doors and Pre Show 7PM Show 8PM

Tickets: https://www.cherrypoppinsla.com/cherry-shows

Written by: Alli Miller-Fisher (She/Her). Directed by: Sarah Haworth-Hodges (She/Her), Chadd McMillan (He/Him). Cast: Amber Bracken She/Her, Kim Dalton She/Her, Everjohn Feliciano He/Him, Bianca Gisselle She/Her, Emma Hunton She/Her, Carly Jibson She/Her, Mitchell Gerrard Johnson He/They, Janaya Mahealani Jones She/They, Andy Kenareki He/Him, Meredith Lim She/Her, Alli Miller-Fisher She/Her, Cory Robison He/Him, Michael Shaw Fisher He/Him, Sarah Wines She/Her. Creative team: Choreographed by: Alli Miller-Fisher (She/Her), Sarah Haworth-Hodges (She/Her), Lauren Avon (She/Her), Brin Hamblin (She/Her) Musical Director: Sandy Chao Wang (She/Her) Vocal Director: Emma Hunton (She/Her) Costume Design: Madeleine Heil (She/Her), Chadd McMillan (He/Him) Lighting Design: Chadd McMillan (He/Him). Producers: Alli Miller-Fisher (She/Her), Sarah Haworth-Hodges (She/Her), Emma Hunton (She/Her), Chadd McMillan (He/Him).

The Nightlesque Before Grinchmas poster
A scene from The Nightlesque Before Grinchmas
A scene from The Nightlesque Before Grinchmas

Burlesque Review: Hail Satin

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From the depths of hell, the girls of Hail Satin turned the Knucklehead‘s stage into a pandemonium. Led by Vita Devoid, the Hail Satin troupe combines metal music with sparkles, fire, and needles, giving the audience a spectacular show of raw sexiness with a deviant touch.

The devilish sexy kittens engaged the spectators with their energetic and provocative dances in an exciting display of electric music and seductive costumes. Daddy Long Legs, Amaya Absynthe, Miss Marquez, and the one and only Vita Devoid offer a high-caliber burlesque show that feels underground and vampiric with elements of BDSM; a tantalizing spectacle of debauchery not to be missed.

Stay tuned for upcoming shows so you can indulge yourself in the magic of Hail Satin, a ritualistic perversion at the Altar of Flesh.

Hail Satin

Knucklehead Hollywood

6202 Santa Monica Blvd.

Los Angeles, CA, 90038

Venue: knuckleheadhwood.com

Theatre Review: Lewis and Tolkien

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The World Premiere of Lewis and Tolkien is presented by the award-winning Actors Co-op Theatre Company in association with MWO Productions. Written and directed by Dean Batali. Produced for Actors Co-op by Marc Whitmore, Lori Berg, and Rob Loos.

In Lewis and Tolkien, Playwright and Director Dean Batali explores the dynamics of the close relationship between C.S. Lewis (Phil Crowley) and J.R.R. Tolkien (Michael Beattie), two of the most influential fantasy writers of the 20th century. But the play also delves into the issues that made them grow apart over the years.

The arrival of fellow writer Charles Williams to the Inklings group didn’t sit well with Tolkien. He thought that Williams was replacing his special friendship with Lewis. Even after William’s death, the relationship between Tolkien and Lewis was never the same again. Straining their relationship even more, Tolkien didn’t show any kind of empathy when Lewis’ wife, Joy Davidman, passed away. A devout Catholic, Tolkien didn’t approved of their marriage. He believed that they were living in sin, as Davidman was still married to her first husband when she started the relationship with Lewis. 

Batali, however, focuses his writing in the probability of seeing the two writers trying to make amends to their strained relationship later in life. Batali pierces the artistic veil and takes a look at the creative process of both writers and their mutual encouragement that boosted their imagination when they experienced the dreadful writer’s block stage. The Lord of the Rings and The Chronicles of Narnia are masterpieces that awakened the imagination of avid readers around the globe. But those fantastical stories went far beyond that, they also inspired people to turn fantasy into reality to achieve their dreams. The character of Veronica (Bianca Akbiyik), the barmaid at the Eagle and
Child Pub, is the eyes of the audience, a curious young woman familiar with The Lord of The Rings but who has yet to discover The Chronicles of Narnia—let’s not forget that the play is set in 1963. Veronica is a symbol of the writer’s followers that have been influenced by the myth and the powerful messages of the worlds depicted in those books.

Batali resisted the temptation to incur in over sentimentalism, rather, he explores the deep philosophical and spiritual dynamics in the relationship between Lewis and Tolkien. They do express their emotions, but the main focus of their conversation is the mutual support to keep exploring, questioning, and reassuring their religious beliefs and creativity, in an attempt to make their respective writings more meaningful and impactful.

The play implies that the writings left behind echo some kind of regrets from both writers, mainly for the lack of mutual support when they needed it the most. And that is one of the deepest messages of the play: Make amends before it’s too late.

The set design is excellent, full of details to take the audience back to the Rabbit Room, right in the middle of Oxford. It was in that room where Lewis and Tolkien’s writings reached new heights, stimulating each other with debate, humor, intelligence, and sometimes, with pints of beer.

Lewis and Tolkien

Actor Co-op Theatre Company at Crossley Theatre

1760 N. Gower St., on the campus of the First Presbyterian Church of Hollywood

Hollywood, CA 90028

October 27 – December 3, 2023 *No Show Friday, November 24*
Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 pm (New Time!)
Sundays at 2:30 pm
Additional Saturday Matinees at 2:30 pm: Nov. 4, Nov. 25 and Dec. 2.

Tickets: www.actorsco-op.org

Written and directed by Dean Batali. Cast: Phil Crowley as C.S Lewis, Michael Beattie as
J.R.R. Tolkien and Bianca Akbiyik as Veronica. Creative team: Joel Daavid (Set Designer), Martha Carter (Lighting Designer), Chris Moscatiello (Sound Designer), Vicki Conrad (Costume Designer), Colleen Darling (Stage Manager) and Beth Batali (Assistant Stage Manager). Produced for Actors Co-op by Marc Whitmore, Lori Berg and Rob Loos.

Lewis and Tolkien poster
A scene from Lewis and Tolkien
A scene from Lewis and Tolkien
A scene from Lewis and Tolkien

Theatre Review: Dream Big

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As part of the initial lineup of the Hollywood Independent Theater Festival (HITFEST), Oh, Sally Productions presented Dream Big. Written by Elizabeth J. Musgrave. Directed by John Coppola. Produced by Frank Forte.

Rumor has it that American Gigolo and Midnight Cowboy had a baby. Its name? Dream Big. But the story doesn’t unfold in Los Angeles or New York, rather, it all happens in Music City, the one and only Nashville, Tennessee. Chasing his dream of becoming a country music star, Ryan (Garrett Louis) takes a job as a male escort. The only problem is that he is broke, his car is acting up, his angry roadies Slade (Michael Moret) and Troy (Andres Rey Solorzano) are coming after him, and his ex is demanding child support money for their 5 or 6-year-old son—Ryan can’t remember his exact age.

Meanwhile, Laura (Mandy Denaux), a lonely middle-aged woman, is in her apartment, packing and giving her properties away. When her sister Courtney (Laura Marlowe) comes to visit, she thinks that Laura is moving to another place, unaware of her real intentions.  Courtney encourages Laura to have some fun and get a date. After thinking about it, Laura decides to give it a try. She calls an escort. Not exactly what she expects, Ryan is the cowboy-gigolo hybrid that comes to fulfill her ultimate fantasy, as disturbing as it might be.

The visit turns into a long night, where past experiences reveal the awkwardness of their personalities and the dreams they’re chasing. Laura’s exposition reveals the buildup of emotional pain as a result of negative past experiences that have led her to a sad and lonely existence. In the case of Ryan, his self-esteem motivates him to keep dreaming of bigger things, even if he has to resort to pulling tricks to survive and his dream seems more like an unattainable horizon. Their ultimate goals seem too opposite from each other, and yet, the two souls meet, as if destiny had a plan for an everlasting connection.

What seems just like a comedy, turns into a revelation of mental health issues and loneliness that take a tremendous toll on Laura, stressing the importance of looking for early signs of trouble. Elizabeth Musgrave‘s script blends comedy and conflict to deliver a play that is highly entertaining. The characters have depth that delve into the dreams of many, but also into the issues of many more. The direction by John Coppola unifies the main topics of the script, translating effectively the chimeras and afflictions of the characters, engaging the audience to get emotionally invested in the story.

Dream Big

The Hudson Theatres

6539 Santa Monica Blvd.

Los Angeles, 90038

Presented on 26 September 2023. Stay tuned for more upcoming dates.

Link to other HITFEST productions: https://hitfest.stagey.net/

Written by Elizabeth Musgrave. Directed by John Coppola. Produced by Frank Forte. Cast: Mandy Denaux, Garrett Louis, Laura Marlowe, Michael Moret, and Andres Rey Solorzano. Creative team: Melissa Dunkelberger (Production Designer), Pam Noles (Technical Director).

Dream Big poster
A scene from Dream Big
A scene from Dream Big
A scene from Dream Big

Theatre Review: Cherry

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Cherry is playing as a part of the Hollywood Fringe Festival. Co-written by Sarah Carroll and Nadia Townsend.

Sarah Carroll‘s obsession with Katy Perry started when she was a 13-year-old growing up in Australia. Sarah was watching MTV when “I Kissed A Girl” came on and an infatuation took hold of Sarah’s awkward teenage years. As her body and personality was developing, Sarah related to Perry’s music at a very personal level. Getting into Katy Perry’s fans forum was a way for Sarah to get closer to her idol and receive important information on Perry’s touring schedule, specially the Australian dates.

Cherry is not only a tribute to Katy Perry. It’s also a lens through which a very dedicated fan tells her personal story and the challenges she faced growing up. Topics about body image, insecurities, relationships, family, and the preparation for adult life are all packed into this funny and entertaining solo show. It’s an interactive show with catchy tunes and the reflection of a whole generation.

Sarah is a talented actress with a great taste to tell a story. Her passion is evident all through the show; she offers a vivacious, funny, and relatable performance till the very end. Cherry is an excellent find this Fringe season, full of bubblegum and cotton candy energy.

Cherry

Asylum @ Thymele Arts (Kansas Room)

5481 Santa Monica Blvd.

Los Angeles, CA 90029

June 4th, 2023 – June 24th, 2023.
Saturday June 24 2023, 10:15 PM

Tickets: hollywoodfringe.org/projects/9782

Sarah Carroll (Co-writer, performer, and producer). Nadia Townsend (Co-writer and dramaturg). Marissa Saroca (Sound Designer). Mollie Webb (Production Manager).

 

Cherry poster
A scene from Cherry
A scene from Cherry

Theatre Review: Exorcistic The Rock Musical

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HRS Productions and Orgasmico Theatre present Exorcist The Rock Musical. Book, lyrics, and music by Michael Shaw Fisher. Directed by Chadd McMillan and Alli Miller-Fisher. Produced by Emma Hunton, Alli Miller-Fisher, and Chadd McMillan.

Directly from the bottom of hell, the characters of the original 1973 film come to life in a majestic spectacle of blasphemy, light, and rock ‘n’ roll. Megan (Emma Hunton) and her mom Kate (Leigh Wulff) continue the original story with a parody that brings laughter and electric performances to an engaged audience.

Sizzling demons, horny priests, and possessed humans come together to pay homage to one of the most influential horror films in cinema history. This musical resumes the ancient dichotomy of good vs evil that has intrigued the minds of people since the beginning of times. Exorcistic puts a spin on the topic with a display of irreverent dialogue and suggestive imagery to enhance the musical experience. The live band plays rock, hip hop, and jazzy tunes to accompany the sensational voices of the eclectic ensemble.

The fog, lighting, and costumes create powerful visuals to match the thrilling performances. Exorcistic is a stimulating revival of The Exorcist, a film that became a cultural reference point around the world. The rotating cast delivers a miscellaneous parade of talent to surprise the audience on every show, making it an exciting and dynamic production.

Exorcistic

Three Clubs

1123 Vine Street

Los Angeles, CA 90038

June 30- July 22, 2023

Fridays and Saturdays at 8 PM

Tickets: exorcistic-the-rock-musical-tickets

Book, lyrics and music by Michael Shaw Fisher. Directed by Chadd McMillan and Alli Miller-Fisher. Produced by Emma Hunton and Alli Miller-Fisher. Starring Emma Hunton (CLUELESQUE), Brian Logan Dales, Leigh Wulff, Frankie Grande, Gabby Sanalitro, Jesse Merlin, Janaya Mahealani Jones, Carly Jibson (CLUELESQUE), Garret Clayton, Jeff Sumner, Marissa Jaret Winokur, Elle Deran, Michael Sheppard (A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Valley Song), Nick Bredosky, Mitchell Johnson, Kim Dalton, Briana Cuoco, Richardson Cisneros-Jones, Choreographed by: Camal Pugh, Musical Director/Arrangements by Michael Teoli.

Exorcistic The Rock Musical poster
A scene from Exorcistic The Rock Musical.
a scene from Exorcistic The Rock Musical.
A scene from Exorcistic The Rock Musical

Theatre Review: Grown Up Orphan Annie

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Grown Up Orphan Annie will be running during the Hollywood Fringe Festival. Written and performed by Katherine Bourne Taylor. Produced by DJ Taylor.

The beloved character Annie (Katherine Bourne Taylor) is now grown up and some details about her life are now disclosed. Being the adopted daughter of Daddy Warbucks created some moral conflicts on the young girl, and now she needs to come to terms with her new reality as a grown up, living the lifestyle of a celebrity. After the death of Daddy Warbucks and the dog Sandy, Annie starts searching for a new sidekick. Unfortunately, she is mislead to believe that Keiko the orca can be her new friend. Unbeknownst to her, Keiko died years ago, creating a new disappointment in her life.

The picaresque style of Harold Gray‘s Little Orphan Annie comic strip continues in this new solo performance. Taylor develops a series of adventures to find new friends and a new sidekick, all of this with an ambientalista undertone, trying to save the planet from the billionaires of the world.

The show is interactive, creating very funny situations with the participation of the audience, specially the first half of the play. The show was workshopped with the innovative Elysian Theatre, and Taylor will be taking her solo performance to the Edinburgh Fringe after the Hollywood run. As part of the Hollywood Fringe Festival, Grown Up Orphan Annie will be playing during the month of June.

Grown Up Orphan Annie

The Broadwater (Studio)

1078 Lillian Way

Los Angeles, CA 90038

Sat June 10th at 3:30 PM

Fri June 16th at 10:30 PM

Thurs June 22nd at 8 PM

Tickets: hollywoodfringe.org/projects/9585

Written and performed by Katherine Bourne Taylor. Workshopped with The Elysian Theater’s Very In Progress Programming. Original Music by Gabriella Hirsch. “Hard Drive Daddy” Music by Katie Greer. Produced by DJ Taylor.

 

Grown Up Orphan Annie poster
Grown Up Orphan Annie
A scene from Grown Up Orphan Annie