Wednesday, May 20, 2015

Monday, May 21, 2012

LEE HARTGRAVE POST-TIMES

THIS IS A TEST. THIS IS JUST A TEST. PLEASE ALSO READ "LEE HARTGRAVE TONIGHT"  THANK YOU.

Wednesday, April 11, 2012

THE LEE HARTGRAVE POST 'FILM NOIR ON THE FAST TRACK'





That's Lee. Courtesy photo
Wednesday July 4th

LEE HARTGRAVE SIGNATURE ON ‘WHAT’S GOING ON' - TODAY!

THEATRE THAT THROBS WITH LIFE. Really? What else throbs?

UNFLINCHING AND RIVETING! I’ll just bet that you are!

GO SEE IT AS SOON AS YOU CAN! Wait – did you say that you are in the Can?

ONE OF THE MOST UNEXPECTED AND GREATEST DISCOVERIES OF THE YEAR! Which end were you looking at?

FORCEFULLY ACTED. Oh no – you’re not doing the Foie gras thing again are you? It’s not Duck Delicious! Quit unzipping your pants!

THIS MOVIE HAS A DEFIANT ATTITUDE! Hey Dude – when did you get any attitude?

SEND YOUR TIDBITS TO: leehartgraveshow@yahoo.com.























42nd Street Moon players are "Amazingly Funny"
 


SUGAR 

 Sugar is lots of fun. Two unemployed musicians, bass player Jerry and saxophone player Joe, are trying to escape a gangster. The musicians dress as a women and join "Sweet Sue" and her Society Syncopaters, an all-female band about to leave town for an engagement at a Miami hotel. 

Of course, like every mad-cap musical, complications arise when Joe, now know as Josephine, fall in love with 'Sugar Cane' a gorgeous blond band singer. Oh, by the way she has a slight drinking problem. Sugar would like to marry a millionaire -- and what ditzy blond wouldn't want to? Joe disguises himself as the rich man of her dreams. 


Then there is a wealthy older rich coot (Osgood) pursues Daphne. The rich guy is not aware that Jerry (Daphne) is really in drag. 



Total chaos takes over the stage as Spatz and his gang finally realize that Josephine and Daphne are really the guys from the band that Spatz and his cohorts are the guys under the dress that they have been looking for.  There is lots of running around and hiding -- in this show - creating barrels of laughter. 


The Choreography is very energizing. The Actors as they sing the terrific mix of songs. I think that this a must see - for all musical theater lovers!  


Sugar is one of those musicals -- where the fun is in the lyrics. This version of the musical sure is worth it to see "Sugar" live on the stage. 


You're gonna enjoy this big blustery musical comedy. The performers nail every last laugh! It's a ready made ovation just waiting for you to stand up and cheer. 


Here is the Outstanding Cast: Michael Kern Cassidy (Joe/Josephine) - RJ Casttaneda - tyer Costin - Caleb Haven Draper - Michelle Drexler - Grant "Buzz Halsing - Scott Hayes - Erica Kimble - Riley Krull - Emily Morris - Tony Panighetti - Darlene Popovic - David Visini - Zack Thomas Wilde. 


Astounding Direction is by: Dyan McBride. Grand Musical Direction by: Saif Eddin. Amazing Choreographer is by Tom Segal. 


AT 42nd Street Moon @ The Eureka Theatre
Now Playing thru April 22 


(((Lee Hartgrave has contributed many articles to the Sunday Chronicle Datebook and he has produced and hosted a long-running Arts Segment on PBS KQED)))


CHECK OUT "Lee Hartgrave Tonight" also


SCROLL DOWN FOR MORE STORIES








http://leehartgraveforallevents.blogspot.com/leehartgraveforallevents.blogspot.com

SUGAR --FLAPPERS GONE WILD


42nd Street Moon players are "Amazingly Funny"
 


SUGAR 

 Sugar is lots of fun. Two unemployed musicians, bass player Jerry and saxophone player Joe, are trying to escape a gangster. The musicians dress as a women and join "Sweet Sue" and her Society Syncopaters, an all-female band about to leave town for an engagement at a Miami hotel. 

Of course, like every mad-cap musical, complications arise when Joe, now know as Josephine, fall in love with 'Sugar Cane' a gorgeous blond band singer. Oh, by the way she has a slight drinking problem. Sugar would like to marry a millionaire -- and what ditzy blond wouldn't want to? Joe disguises himself as the rich man of her dreams. 


Then there is a wealthy older rich coot (Osgood) pursues Daphne. The rich guy is not aware that Jerry (Daphne) is really in drag. 



Total chaos takes over the stage as Spatz and his gang finally realize that Josephine and Daphne are really the guys from the band that Spatz and his cohorts are the guys under the dress that they have been looking for.  There is lots of running around and hiding -- in this show - creating barrels of laughter. 


The Choreography is very energizing. The Actors as they sing the terrific mix of songs. I think that this a must see - for all musical theater lovers!  


Sugar is one of those musicals -- where the fun is in the lyrics. This version of the musical sure is worth it to see "Sugar" live on the stage. 


You're gonna enjoy this big blustery musical comedy. The performers nail every last laugh! It's a ready made ovation just waiting for you to stand up and cheer. 


Here is the Outstanding Cast: Michael Kern Cassidy (Joe/Josephine) - RJ Casttaneda - tyer Costin - Caleb Haven Draper - Michelle Drexler - Grant "Buzz Halsing - Scott Hayes - Erica Kimble - Riley Krull - Emily Morris - Tony Panighetti - Darlene Popovic - David Visini - Zack Thomas Wilde. 


Astounding Direction is by: Dyan McBride. Grand Musical Direction by: Saif Eddin. Amazing Choreographer is by Tom Segal. 


AT 42nd Street Moon @ The Eureka Theatre
Now Playing thru April 22 


(((Lee Hartgrave has contributed many articles to the Sunday Chronicle Datebook and he has produced and hosted a long-running Arts Segment on PBS KQED)))


CHECK OUT "Lee Hartgrave Tonight" also


SCROLL DOWN FOR MORE STORIES









Tuesday, November 8, 2011

42nd STREET MOON - OH, OH...OH KAY!


Jackson Davis. Courtesy Photo - 42nd moon







42nd STREET MOON – “OH KAY!”
Poignant – Hysterical


It all starts out with dazzling pianist (Brandon Ames) at the keyboard. Most of us are familiar with the musical “Oh Kay” – and it sounds and looks like “Kay” will back another time. Why? ...Because -- the Gershwin musical still sparkles after all these decades.

Theresa Byrne (Kay) is a strong presence in this freshened up musical. Her operatic version of “Someone To Watch Over Me” – gives a new look to one of the greatest songs ever written.

“Oh Kay” is pretty heavy on the dialogue – but that is the way it was put together in the 20’s. But still – when the singers are simply marvelous you know why this musical has endured over time.  Here is the recipe. The entire cast is really very funny and charming. How could anyone not like it?

Director Maureen McVerry has done a wonderful job in keeping up the pace in this tuneful Gershwin musical. By the way, the sound quality was superb in the Theatre. I also got a kick out of watching the magical changes in the furniture on stage. One minute you are in a mansion and the next you are out on a wonderful patio. Quick changes happen really fast. Remarkable.

“Oh Kay” of course is a love story sung by the captivating cast – which is huge. The song “Do, Do, Do – is such fun to hear. The popular song went on to sell plenty of records.

The Choreographer, Staci Arriaga is a stage wizard that keeps those high steps moving. Also loved the exceptional Lighting design by Mazz Kurzunski. And the Costumes to die over are by Stephanie Finader. Ron Gasparinetti is an amazing set designer. He can design my place anytime. It needs it.

The Cast is “Firecracker funny” and sometimes hysterical – but they bring “Oh Kay” every actor you ever wanted to see on stage. Here is the Powerhouse cast: Teressa Byrne, Jackson Davis (really funny), Alanna fox, Kathryn Han, Christina Ingram, Craig Jessup, Erica Kimble, Tyler McKenna, Lisa-Marie Newton, Amie Shapiro, Brian Yates Sharber. Stephen Vaught, Zack Thomas Wilde and Skye Wilson.

RATING: THREE GLASSES OF CHAMPAGNE!!! – trademarked –

AT THE 42nd Street Moon Theatre at the Eureka Theatre on Davis Street. 

(((Lee Hartgrave has contributed many articles to the San Francisco Chronicle Sunday Datebook and he also produced and hosted a long-running Arts Segment on PBS KQED)))

FOLLOW LEE:  Facebook @ Lee Hartgrave 

Twitter @ famereporter  









Sunday, March 28, 2010

LEE HARTGRAVE REVIEWS - DEEPLY MOVING AND ROMANTIC

MAUDE MAGGART AT THE RRAZZ ROOM 


Intrique...Jealous...Love...and Escape. What could be more exciting and tantalizing? Maggart treats us to a wonderful evening of songs during the most wonderful musical era of all times. Who could not fall in love with her rendition of "Where or When"? Then she sings the fabulous "Isn't it romantic" (Rogers &; Hart). The wonderful treatment of the world class songs don't end there. You become the dreamer as she glides in "The Dreamers ((Hart and Hugh Martin) 

Maggart is backed up with the wonderful talents of John Boswell Pianist). The two are meant for each other as they meld the wonderful songs of Frank Loesser, Jules Styne, Sondheim, Paul Williams and Billy Rose -- just to mention a few of the greats. 

I have seen and heard Maggart several times over the years. And like a rare old wine, she completely has hit the top of her game. She has never sounded better.On each song, she goes for broke emotionally. I didn't want it to stop. Her voice is just perfect for the great music. Not all of the songs are all drama - no indeed, she has a few very funny lyrics from some obscure songs that are just hysterical. 

To say that Maggart delivers a radiant performance is really not enough. It is a visually fascinating as well. One of the things that really intriqued me is that Maggart is a little quirky. That I liked a lot. She just doesn't sing - she becomes that singer of the era. There is nothing egotistical about her or the show. Maggart is the real deal. 

You have one more chance to catch her at the Rrazz Room this Evening (Sunday 8pm).  

RATING: FOUR GLASSES OF CHAMPAGNE!!!! (highest Rating) -trademarked- 

therazzroom.com.

(((Lee Hartgrave has contributed many articles to the San Francisco Chronicle Sunday Datebook and produced a long-running Arts Segment of PBS KQED)))

Friday, December 4, 2009

HARTGRAVE POST

LEE HARTGRAVE REVIEWS

Dec. 4, 2009

Cotton Patch Gospel – “Delirious fun!”
Jubilee – “Grade ‘A’ Tomfoolery!”
Patty Duke to Star in REAF Special



COTTON PATCH GOSPEL -

This rousing musical is still one of the most produced musicals in the USA because Harry Chapin’s score grabs you by the seat of your pants and won’t let go.

The musical paraphrases the New Testament. It takes place in modern Georgia -- and the story is based on Jesus and the New Testament. It’s thrilling to hear the Blue Grass musicians along with the fresh, young new talents on the stage.

How does the Gospel translate to the 21st Century? Quite well. It brings up many questions during the musical. The one that really resonates is – would people recognize Jesus if he showed up in Georgia. Not likely.

The S—t kickin’ music starts with a fantastic “Somethin’s Brewin’ in Gainesville. “Then there is great harmony in “I Did It”. The song “Jubilation” brings up memories of hair – but without the Broadway glitz. There are promises that if you follow the gospel you’ll get “A Gold AmexCard”.

Harrod in this play is the Governor of Georgia. It’s such a camp – but so-so true.  Absolutely loved “Dangerous Man”. Think Sweeney Todd.

These electronic evangelists of the airwaves will keep your toes a tapping. Well, gee gosh – you might even be tempted to go up on the stage and get saved.  This is one of my favorite lines: A preacher questions why Jesus is preaching and drawing such big crowds. He complains: “Why would he do it for nothing?” And, of course, that nails the Churches to the cross and their constant asking for ‘small change!” What the heck – biz is biz. You just can’t compete with the Free Jesus out in front of your Church.

What you’ll see and hear at the Custom Made Theatre production is an evening of talent that matches Broadway performances. It’s Chair Rockin' Baby. And as one sings: “If you’ve got a problem – you must flush it out!” Yes you do, and yes they did.

Oh, and get this: Pontius Pilate (Preacher) is complaining that Jesus is operating without a permit to run a fast-food-joint. He says in his imperial way ‘”He’s serving 5,000 people a day, without a permit.” He’s such a nice guy. But, kind-a-dumb, wouldn’t you say?

EXTRAS: THE STORYTELLER – EDWARD HIGHTOWER IS A DYNAMO. HE HAS SPIRIT THAT ABSOLUTELY SOARS. ALL HAIL A NEW ECECTRIFING STAR.

THE AMAZING COTTON PATCH TRIO STARS KATIE KIMBALL, ERICA RICHARDSON AND RONA SIDIQUI. “WONDERFUL FLAT-OUT SINGING!”

THE COTTON PICKERS: PAMELA BRANDON – BASS. JOHN CROIZAT/DAVID FINCH – FIDDLE/MANDOLIN. JEFF (UNCLE JAKE) KAPLAN -- BANJO/GUITAR.   AND MATT LAUER, ALSO ON GUITAR. THEY BRING OUT THE TIMELESS MUSIC (Bluegrass) WITH EVERY NUANCE AND EVERY CRAZY NOTE WITH PRECISION NOT OFTEN HEARD. “THE PICKERS ARE SPELLBINDING!”

DIRECTOR: MARILYN LANGBEHN HAS GIVEN US AN INVENTIVE FRESH NEW TAKE ON THE MUSICAL.

M USICAL DIRECTOR RONA SIDDIQUI WORKED MAGIC. THE SET/SCENIC DESIGN BY LEWIS CAMPBELL IS CRISP AND POWERFUL. THE LIGHTING DESIGNER KEDAR LAWRENCE HAS KEPT THE MOOD GOING WITH FASCINATING AND EVOCATIVE PLAYS OF LIGHT AND SHADOW.

“The show is a triumph!”

RATING: FOUR GLASSES OF CHAMPAGNE!!!! (highest rating) – trademarked-


JUBILEE  -- AN EXQUISITE PRODUCTION! 

The 42nd Moon production of Jubilee is really something to celebrate. The impeccable ensemble lands every laugh with perfect timing. Dyan McBride (Eva Standing) is truly one of the most fun performances that I have seen in a long time. She match’s brittleness with heart and showy gestures of faux affection.

Back in time: Cole Porter and Moss Hart took a long luxury cruise to tour the world. They wrote this musical during the cruise. They used inside jokes about their famous friends; there is Johnny Weissmuller, Elsa Maxwell, Ginger Rogers, playwrights, a King, Queen, Princess and the Prince.

 The Princess is wooed by playwright/composer/actor Eric Dare. A hostile uprising forces the Royal family to abandon the palace. They romped around with commoners, and loved the freedoms of being on their own.

The musical opened on Broadway at the Imperial Theatre and ran for 169 performances. Here are some of the great/clever songs: “The Kling-Kling Bird on the Divi-Divi Tree”, “My Most intimate Friend”, “A Picture of Me Without You”, “Begin The Beguine”, “Just One Of Those Things”, and “Everybodee Who’s Anybodee.”

This is a warm, funny and tender musical. It’s a very special evening.  A perfect mix of Royalty, humor and commoners make the Cole Porter musical wildly enjoyable!

C.J. Blankenship (Mowgli) is the icing on the cake. He reveals almost all to the audience (sexy outfit) – and his voice is strong, vibrant. He makes a strong, assertive and sexy statement.

Megan Cavanagh (The Queen) – couldn’t be more stately. I was almost convinced that it was Queen Elizabeth. Benjamin Pither is always a delight. He plays Prince Rudolph, among several other characters. In fact he changed clothes so often that he must have been naked back stage most of the time as he slipped into one character after another in seconds. Zack Thomas Wilde (Eric Dare) was born to play the snob Playwright. Andrew Willlis-Woodward (Prince James) reminds of Ashton Kutcher in looks. He has that cinematic charm. It’s hard to not focus on him. But, then he is a Prince.

EXTRA: So many great actors and so little time. Everyone in the cast is so brilliant – here is the rest of the cast of thousands:
Peter Budinger, Derek Travis Collard (Prime Minister), Alison Ewing, Sarah Kathleen Farrell, Michael Patrick Gaffney (King), Juliet Heller (Princess Diana), Alexis Papedo, Celeste Russi and Justin Torres and Giana De Geiso (Lady Zendl, and others)  “REMARKABLE TALENTS!”

The spectacular Direction is by Greg MacKelllan. Dave Dobrusky, Musical Director is always the genius at the piano. And brilliant Choreographer Tom Segal is mind-blowingly fantastic.  The Costumes by Louise Jamilowicz are just fabulous. Every scene looks like it jumped right off the cover of the Saturday Evening Post. Visually stunning!

RATING: FOUR GLASSES OF CHAMPAGNE!!!!  (highest rating) –trademarked-

WHERE: 42ND MOON THEATRE at THE EUREKA THEATRE.  FOLLOW 42ND MOON ON TWITTER.

(((Lee Hartgrave has contributed many articles to the San Francisco Chronicle Sunday Datebook section and produced a long-running Arts Segment on PBS KQED)))

REAF PRESENTS A SPECIAL AT THE J’LaCHIC THEATRE 39

The one Night Event stars the terrific and fun Patty Duke is a star from the successful and wonderful “Wicked” at the Orpheum. Also you will love Lucie Arnaz, Broadway star and singer. Ron Abel will accompany Arnaz.

Then there is the American idol Star RJ Helton – he will make your socks roll up and down. Connie Champagne & Leanne Borghesi – Cabaret Stars will certain keep you guessing. You never know what they are up to. But whatever it is – is bound too be fun.

Another ‘Wicked’ star, Teal Wicks will also perform. And the wonderful Motown Singers Top Shelf. will bring down the walls. Well, not literally, I might be sitting next to one of them. But they will keep your toes tapping.

All the entertainers will ring in the Holidays with upbeat, high-energy music, dance and comedy. The One Night Only Cabaret raises funds to provide to direct them to services that help people with HIV/AIDS. To date, REAF has distributed over $2.25 million.

INFO: FOR TIX: 425-273-2620. Or online: http://www.helpisontheway/ 

Ask about the Dessert party with the cast following the show.

Follow Lee Hartgrave:

Twitter.com/famereporter

Facebook/leehartgrave