Broadway By the Bay arrives this year with four top Broadway creating an impressive season for musical theatre lovers.
“Evita” (March 28-April 13)
In London in 1976, composer Andrew Lloyd Webber and lyricist Tim Rice released an album of a show that would be called “Evita.” By early 1977, the album took the world by storm and when “Evita” premiered in London in June 1978, everyone was humming “Don’t Cry For Me Argentina.” In September 1979, “Evita” opened on Broadway to a sold out run and won seven Tonys, including Best Musical, Score, Book and Director. “Evita’s” Broadway run went on for four years. The story is about the life of Eva Peron, wife of Argentine dictator Juan Peron. It takes us – via “pop opera” – on an unforgettable journey.
“In The Heights” (June 20-July 6)
It was nominated for 13 Tony’s in 2008 and won four: Best Musical, Best Original Score, Best Choreography and Best Orchestrations. It was also voted a finalist for the 2009 Pulitzer Prize for Drama. With all these pluses, this show is extraordinary.
“Dreamgirls” (Aug. 15-31)
This is an explosion of fantastic talent and super entertainment. Here is one show you are guaranteed to really get your money’s worth. The performers put forth amazing talent and energy. The original production received many awards, made stars and garnered awards for Jennifer Holiday on Broadway and an Oscar for Jennifer Hudson for the movie. This production is not to be outdone.
“Anything Goes” (Nov. 7-23)
All aboard for the dizziest, silliest, funniest cruise ever. This story is bit of fluff that is enhanced by Cole Porter’s lyrics and music, and is amazingly spectacular to the eyes and ears. Never mind the silly plot. Never mind the unbelievable characters. Here is one show in which the actors are bigger than their parts. Great voices, great dancers, great music, great sets. As Cole Porter would say, “Can You Ask for Anything More?”
This is a fantastic series with solid hits and great season ticket value – and it’s right in our own back yard. Easy parking, close to home at the Fox Theatre in Redwood City.
Camille Bounds is the Theatre, Arts and Special Events Editor for Sunrise publications.
Call (650) 579-5565 or visit www.broadway by the bay.org.
