Broadway To Vegas

Copyright: November 3, 2024
By: Laura Deni
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SUNSET BOULEVARD STARRING NICOLE SCHERZINGER - SENSATIONAL!

With one look . . . you'll be enthralled. Sunset Boulevard at the St. James Theatre in New York City.

As relevant today as it was decades ago, just brought up to date. The 74-year-old black-and-white movie was current for its time, set in that period's "present" about the washed up movie star who is desperate for adulation. The brilliant original Broadway version stayed with the same scenery mode, which by today's standards looks like it belongs in a Halloween movie - old, set in the past, creepy.

Six-time Olivier-winning and Tony-nominated director Jamie Lloyd’s attention deserving production of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s musical is transformative. With the type of bragging credentials that Lloyd possesses the bar is set high. He delivers. The powerful hit songs With One Look and It's As If I Never Said Good-bye are still showstoppers.

The re-imaged superb Broadway revival ticks all of the boxes. The story line hasn't been changed but it's refreshingly modern in scenic design by Soutra Gilmour who also knows the power of a slip dress.

This production is today's Beverly Hills and the washed up stars who have been "Norma Desmonded", now depending upon their press releases to give them life. Not the least of which is the musical's leading lady, Norma Desmond, who is desperate for the attention which once engulfed her.

A powerful, dramatic score with excellent arrangements orchestrated by David Cullen and Andrew Lloyd Webber. Musical Director is Alan Williams who conducts the orchestra in pitch perfect playing.

Bringing Desmond to life and in so doing launching her own elevation into the stratosphere is Nicole Scherzinger. Who? Nicole Scherzinger, a former Pussycat Doll. As is the reality with many singing groups, fans know the group but not necessarily the individual names.

Between 2003 and 2010 Nicole was the lead singer of R&B-pop group and dance ensemble Pussycat Dolls. Okay, so you still not too sure who she is. That's understandable. When she attempted a solo career her record sales weren't impressive. It would have been easy to "Norma Desmond" her. She's proof that talent wins out.

Nightly she can revel in well deserved, prolonged standing ovations as the possessive and paranoid Norma Desmond in Sunset Boulevard.

Nicole Scherzinger in Sunset Boulevard. Photo by Marc Brenner

She shines in an exhilarating performance, stealing the show. With a beautiful face and form, her model's body exhibits a dancer's grace, even her body movements are engulfing, transporting the audience into almost a hypnotic state. As Desmond, Scherzinger has given notice that she is more than merely great and can rightly demanded her closeup. She is where she belongs.

Swapping a turban for a slip dress, this is today's Norma.

The up-to-date modern choreography is by Fabian Aloise.

Scherzinger is no stranger to the role of Norma. She starred as the character in the West End 2023 revival of Sunset Boulevard at the Savoy Theatre. Her performance garnered critical acclaim. She received the 2023 Evening Standard Theatre Award for Best Musical Performance and the 2024 Laurence Olivier Award for Best Actress in a Musical. This is her Broadway debut.

The sung through musical has enjoyed several outings on Broadway. The 1994 mounting was directed by Trevor Nunn.

There has been a murder and rumor has it that the major star might be involved.

A struggling writer Joe Gillis (Tom Francis in his Broadway debut shows off his excellent vocal ability) has been shot dead.


Joe is one of a bus load of writers, with a dream and an unpublished script, who are out of work. When he tries to escape from those wanting to reposess his car on Sunset Boulevard he seeks refuse in the mansion belonging to one Norma Desmond. She's a has been who couldn't make the transition as the movie industry progressed. In love with herself, she fantasizes about a return to her glory days. She's even penned what she foists off as a screenplay, titled Salome. Everyone except Norma knows that dreadful is too kind a word. She does condescend that some polishing might be needed and employs Joe to do a polish. She insists that he stay in her home as she drags out her demands. Soon he becomes her toy boy trapped in a massive house run with an iron fist by her butler and chauffeur Max von Mayerling (David Thaxton) who has shielded her from the facts that she is no longer admired or sought after.

They head towards a great obis.

Hannah Yun Chamberlain is clever as a young Norma who torments the adult version. The use of modern technology such as a large screen makes possible to convey an emotional depth so that the audience is better able to appreciate the scenes involving the love triangle of Joe, script girl Betty Schaefer (Grace Hodgett Young), and Joe's best friend Artie (Diego Andres Rodriguez). Suddenly, the audience actually cares about them in this important secondary plot line.

Stupendous lighting design by Jack Knowles who knows how to make shadows elevate a script with unnerving brightness as punctuation.

The famous lines which have becomes a staple for American quipsters are there: Joe saying to Norma: "You used to be in pictures; you used to be big," with Norma sassing back, "I am big – it's the pictures that got small!" bringing on the standout number "With One Look." Of course there is the over-the-top "And now, Mr. DeMille, I am ready for my close-up."

A must see show which should enjoy a long and successful run - not to mention the making of a stage superstar in Nicole Scherzinger. She looks sensational, even as a blood spattered Desmond.

In addition to the above mentioned, the creatives are: Associate Musical Director Fred Lassen; Assistant Musical Director Steven Malone. Sound Design by Adam Fisher; Video Design & Cinematography by Nathan Amzi and Joe Ransom; Hair Design by Cheryl Thomas; Make-Up Design by Cheryl Thomas; Nick Murray; US Associate Set Designer: Wilson Chin; US Associate Costume Designer: Production Manager: Hudson Scenic and Sam Ellis; Production Stage Manager: Johnny Milani; Stage Manager: Veronica Lee; Assistant Stage Mgr: Brandon Allmon-Jackson.

Associate Conductor: Fred Lassen; Assistant Conductor: Steven Malone; Violin: Annaliesa Place (Concertmaster), Yuko Naito-Gotay and Sarah Zun; Violin/Viola: Philip Payton; Viola: Jocelin Pan; Cello: Sarah Hewitt-Roth; Flute/Clarinet/Alto Sax: Steve Kenyon; Flute/Clarinet/Bass Clarinet/Alto & Tenor Sax: Emma Reinhart; Trumpet/Piccolo Trumpet: Alex Bender; Trombone/Bass Trombone: Burt Mason; French Horn: Alana Vegter Gartrell and Daniel Salera; Guitars: Justin Rothberg; Bass: Pete Donovan; Drums/Percussion: Joe Nero; Keyboards: Adam Rothenberg, Fred Lassen and Steven Malone; Musical Coordinator: Michael Aarons and M-Squared Music; Associate Musical Coord: Anja Wood; Keyboard Programmer: Stuart Andrews; Music Copyist: James Turner.

US Casting: Jim Carnahan, CSA and Jason Thinger, CSA; UK Casting: Stuart Burt, CDG; Intimacy Coordinator: Ann James; Advertising: AKA; Marketing Director: Anna Pitera DeVito; Press Representative: DKC/O&M; Production Photographer: Marc Brenner; Dance Captain: Giuseppe Bausilio; Assistant Dance Captain: Kristina Garvida Doucette; Vocal Coach: Mike Ruckles; Violence Consultant: David Anzuelo.

Guest starring as Norma Desmond in certain performances is Mandy Golzales.

The cast also includes: Olivia Lacie Andrews, Brandon Mel Borkowsky, Shavey Brown, Cydney Clark, Raúl Contreras, Tyler Davis, E.J. Hamilton, Sydney Jones, Emma Lloyd,. Pierre Marais, Shayna McPherson, Jimin Moon, Justice Moore, Drew Redington.

Swings: Giuseppe Bausilio, Kristina Garvida Doucette, Brandon LaVar, Maggie Likcani, Abby Matsusaka and Rixey Terry.

Standby: Caroline Bowman (Norma Desmond).

Understudies: Olivia Lacie Andrews (Betty Schaefer), Shavey Brown (Max von Mayerling), Sydney Jones (Betty Schaefer), Emma Lloyd (Norma Desmond), Pierre Marais (Max von Mayerling), Jimin Moon (Joe Gillis) and Diego Andres Rodriguez (Joe Gillis).

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This is not your typical, totally boring textbook.

In the pages of How To Earn A Living As A Freelance Writer (the first to be lied to and the last to be paid) you'll find sex, celebrities, violence, threats, unethical editors, scummy managers and lawyers, treacherous press agents, sex discrimination; as well as a how-to for earning money by writing down words.

ART AND ABOUT

HONORING NORMAN LEAR'S LEGACY IN COMEDY AND CIVIC ENGAGEMENT

Norman Lear

Talking about politics can be hard. Legendary comedy producer and writer Norman Lear used comedy to start the conversation. A new installation at the National Comedy Center in Jamestown, NY, and an online companion exhibit honor Lear’s legacy of civic engagement. Experience clips from classic sitcoms like All in the Family, Maude, Good Times, and Sanford and Son, each demonstrating how comedy can spark powerful dialogue about society and democracy. See for yourself how Lear’s groundbreaking work brought political discourse into America’s living rooms, making us laugh, think, and talk.

2024 marks the first modern election cycle absent the passionate voice of Norman Lear, the legendary comedy producer and writer who dedicated his life’s work to championing your right to equal participation in our democratic process — starting with your vote.

"The right to vote is foundational. It is at the heart of everything I have fought for in war and in peacetime. Protecting voting rights should not be today’s struggle. But it is. And that means it is our struggle, yours and mine, for as long as we have breath and strength." – Norman Lear

Before political humor was a mainstay of contemporary American entertainment, Norman Lear’s body of work proved that political discourse not only had a place in popular culture, but that incisive, intelligent comedy could engage vast, dispersed, and diverse audiences of everyday people in impactful conversations about the democratic process and each of our roles within it.

The groundbreaking sitcoms that he created, including All In the Family, Maude, The Jeffersons, Good Times, One Day At a Time, and Sanford and Son, not only entertained 120 million Americans each week at the height of their extraordinary popularity, but put forth a vision for how dinner table debates, neighborhood organizing, and showing up at a local polling place were the accessible — and meaningful — bedrock of American democracy.

Though tapping into pop culture to motivate political action is commonplace today, it was not always. The shows Norman Lear created were unprecedented (and unreplicated) weekly mass cultural events, and his commitment to ensuring that civic engagement was a driving message of some of the most-viewed entertainment programming of the American 20th century was no small gesture.

Lear well understood the power of comedy to open minds and level playing fields, and he reveled in a certain sort of laughter that came at the shock of self-recognition. His humor was about our common humanity, and our shared future. In an unpublished editorial, Lear reflected on what it was that really made his art matter: "I am convinced that there are millions of thoughtful Americans who are enormously frustrated by what they see and cannot see on television. I think we matter if we talk to each other about it. I think we matter if we talk to our children about it. I think we matter if we write about it. There are a million things one can do if you just believe in raising your hand and saying something matters. I believe in my heart it matters."

The exhibit can be experienced in the National Comedy Center’s galleries in Jamestown, New York through 2025 and online at Comedy Center.

LEGION OF HONOR IN SAN FRANCISCO Since its dedication to the city of San Francisco on November 11, 1924, the Legion of Honor has welcomed locals and visitors alike with its world-class art collection and sweeping views of the Golden Gate. This year marks the museum’s 100th anniversary as part of the Bay Area’s vibrant cultural community. This is momentous occasion is being celebrated with a yearlong series of special events and programs beginning in November 2024.

Join in for an opening weekend extravaganza and return throughout the year to explore a dynamic exhibition schedule, hear engaging stories about the art directly from curators through a new free audio tour and lecture series, and (re)acquaint yourself with beloved collection highlights and new gallery additions. Together, let’s imagine the Legion of Honor’s next 100 years."

Dress Rehearsal: The Art of Theatrical Design is on display November 9, 2024 – April 27, 2025 at the Legion of Honor.

In celebration of the Legion’s 100th anniversary, this exhibition brings together a selection of our most outstanding costume and set designs through two intertwined stories — the history of theater and dance, and the founding of the Legion of Honor.

Alma de Bretteville Spreckels (1881–1968), cofounder of the Legion, donated over 60 spectacular Russian theater and dance drawings, including exceptional designs for the Ballets Russes (1909–1929). Over the following decades, our collection of theater and dance material has grown to be one of the strongest in the United States. Moving from ballet’s roots in 15th-century Italy up to present day, the exhibition includes rarely shown drawings and designs by celebrated artists. From Ballets Russes designer Léon Bakst to avant-garde painters Natalia Goncharova, Pablo Picasso, and Marie Laurencin to contemporary artist Marcel Dzama, all of the artists on view turned their immense talent in the graphic arts to the stage.

ANDY WARHOL two art works were stolen during an overnight break in at the MPV Gallery in North Brabant province, Netherlands.

The thieves originally took four silkscreens from Warhol's Reigning Queens series but abandoned two nearby because they apparently wouldn't fit into the getaway vehicle, the gallery owner told Dutch broadcaster NOS.

The works taken and still missing are of the late Queen Elizabeth II and of Margrethe II, who was Queen of Denmark until her abdication earlier this year.

Local police, who are investigating, told the press it appeared that there had been some form of explosion and that there was a lot of damage to the gallery and surrounding buildings.

The two prints abandoned are of Queen Beatrix of the Netherlands and Queen Ntombi Tfwala of Eswatini, formerly Swaziland.

The four artworks were at the gallery ahead of the PAN Amsterdam art fair later this month, where they were slated to be sold as a set.

They are part of a series of 16 silk screens of the four queens that Warhol, who is considered one of the greatest artists of the 20th Century, created in 1985 - two years before his death.

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SWEET CHARITY

IN TUNE CAMPAIGN

In Tune Patrons, The Duke and Duchess of Gloucester meeting Gloucester Cathedral choristers in February 2024. Photo: Gloucester Cathedral.

The is the place used for several shots portraying Hogwarths' interiors on Harry Potter and The Philosopher Stone; the Chamber of Secrets and the Half Blood Prince," it's the Gloucester Cathedral which history dates back to 678.

On November 4, 2024 The Duke and Duchess Gloucester, Joint Patrons of Gloucester Cathedral's 'In Tune' Campaign, will attend a dinner in Gloucester Cathedral.

The campaign has nothing to do with Harry Potter. Rather it's campaign to raise £3 million by 2026 to fund the rebuilding of the Cathedral’s famous organ and a variety of exciting initiatives to unlock musical potential and opportunity.

"At the heart of Gloucester Cathedral’s rich musical tradition is a belief that music is for everyone. We are committed to offering inclusive musical and singing experiences, welcoming people of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities."

Revitalizing our famous 1666 organ, one of the most historically significant instruments of its kind in the world.

"We are rebuilding the Cathedral organ, originally constructed in 1666 by Thomas Harris, and which represents the only complete 17th-century Cathedral organ case in the country. Associated with illustrious musicians like Sir Herbert Brewer, John Stafford-Smith and Ivor Novello, it is recognized as one of the most historically significant instruments of its kind in the world," posts the venue.

The new instrument will "combine the best of romantic and continental tones, providing a rich and exciting sound The new organ will not only inspire future musicians but also engage the wider community through our Organ Academy, further enriching Gloucester Cathedral's world-class music offerings."

With a refurbished organ the Cathedral will be able to provide more young people and children with access to a first-rate musical education in a supportive and inspiring environment - partner with schools and charities to host annual 'come and play' workshops. We will work with partners to introduce educational programs, allowing young musicians to engage with and learn on our newly restored organ.

VERSE, CHORUS, BRIDGE a fundraiser for the Garry Marshall Theatre in Burbank, CA takes place November 13, 2024 at Verse Restaurant. Hosted by Lola and Hogb Debney the cocktails follow by dinner event will celebrate the music of John Debney in Garry Marshall films.

THEATER RESOURCES UNLIMITED 2024 TRU LOVE BENEFIT: PASSION…PASS IT ON! takes place Sunday, November 17, 2024 at Green Room 42 in New York City.

Headliners are Norm Lewis and Nona Hendryx of Labelle.

The gala will feature a VIP cocktail hour with hors d'oeuvres stations, a 3-course luncheon, performances celebrating our honorees who have enriched our theater community and inspired a generation of new theater lovers, and video remembrances. Broadway star and Tony nominee Norm Lewis and pop legend Nona Hendryx of Labellewill lead the lineup of performances. Jonathan S. Cerullo has been announced as the director of the gala, with Lulu Picart as music director and Jim Semmelman as stage manager.

For this year’s gala, TRU honors Irene Gandy, publicist and producer, recipient of the TRU Spirit of Theater Award for being uncompromisingly authentic and igniting a passion for the arts in so many and Susan E. Lee, founder of Camp Broadway and the Broadway Education Alliance, recipient of the TRU Humanitarian Award for innovative thinking that has inspired generations of theater lovers past, present and future. TRU also honors the memory of producer Dr. Ron Simons, 2016 TRU Spirit of Theater Award winner, 4-time Tony winning producer as well as an actor and film producer.

The Benefit Committee includes: Chair Cheryl Davis; Producers Bob Ost, Janel C. Scarborough and Sharon Weiss; plus committee members Margot Astrachan, Merrie L. Davis, John Lant, Neal Rubinstein and Sandy Silverberg.

THE EIGHTEENTH ANNUAL HOPE LUNCHEON SEMINAR will honor Law & Order: SVU star Mariska Hargitay. The event takes place at the Plaza Hotel in New York City on November 12, 2024.

Previous honorees include Dakota Johnson, Anderson Cooper and Michael Phelps.

"The mission of the Hope for Depression Research Foundation (HDRF) is to fund the most innovative neuroscience research into the origins, diagnosis, treatment and prevention of depression and its related mood disorders – bipolar disorder, postpartum depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety disorder and suicide.

"In addition, HDRF aims to raise awareness of depression as a medical illness and to educate the public about the facts of depression. We educate and inform in order to help remove the stigma that still surrounds depression.

"HDRF was founded in April 2006 by Audrey Gruss in memory of her mother, Hope, who suffered from clinical depression.

"Every dollar raised goes directly to research."

SPREADING THE WORD

TO SIR, WITH LOVE CONCERT READING of the new musical will feature Wayne Brady, John O’Hurley as Headmaster Florian, Rachael Harris as Miss Dale-Evans, Kelley Jakle as Miss Blanchard and Darcy Rose Byrnes as Pamela Dare.

Other cast members include Josh Adamson (Mr. Bell), Pat Towne (Mr. Weston), Nick Apostolina (Jackson), Isabella Blake-Thomas (Joseph), L.J. Benet (Denham), Anthony Carro (Sapiano), Jahbril Cook (Seals), Caiden Falstrup-Finney (Potter), Gus Pappas (Buckley), Rena Strober (Mrs. Dare) and Haley Wolff (Pegg).

Immortalized by Sidney Poitier's captivating performance in the 1967 cinematic masterpiece To Sir, With Love, this timeless, autobiographical story of Rick Braithwaite, a Cambridge-educated engineer and former RAF fighter pilot who battles societal prejudices at every turn. More more relevant today than ever, the special concert adaptation of To Sir, With Love is set to be performed at the Garry Marshall Theatre in Burbank. Directed by Sheldon Epps, this exclusive invite-only event will have concert dates on November 8, 9, and 10, 2024.

THE NEW YORK COMEDY FESTIVAL is back for its 20th year to bring 10 days of laughter to The Big Apple with 200+ comedians performing in 100+ shows across all five boroughs November 8-17, 2024.

Performers include Judd Apatow, Jeff Arcuri, Dave Attell, Zarna Garg, How Did This Get Made?, Gabriel Iglesias, I've Had It, Joe List, Bill Maher, Matt McCusker, Tracy Morgan, Nurse John, Ms. Pat, Adam Ray is Dr. Phil, The Rest Is History, Justin Silva, JB Smoove, Dan Soder, Sommore, Stand Up for Heroes, Jimmy O. Yang, Jaboukie Young-White and many more at NYC's most prestigious venues, including the Beacon Theatre, Carnegie Hall, David Geffen Hall at Lincoln Center, Kings Theatre, Town Hall, and The Venue at Hard Rock Hotel New York.

THE GARFUNKELS AT CAFÉ CARLYLE IN NEW YORK CITY a rare and exclusive residency featuring the legendary Art Garfunkel, Sr. and his extraordinarily talented family—Art Garfunkel, Jr., Kathryn Luce Garfunkel, and Beau Garfunkel on November 12 through 16, 2024.

NEW YORK POPS: AN EVENING WITH MAX VON ESSEN on November 15, 2024 at Carnegie Hall in New York City.

The Pops are "thrilled to welcome back Max von Essen for his solo Carnegie Hall debut. A Tony Award nominee for An American in Paris, Max will perform favorites from the Great American Songbook and selections from his career, including spectacular performances of classics from A Star is Born, An American in Paris, The King and I, Les Misérables, South Pacific, and more.

THE DUCHESS OF GLOUCESTER Royal Patron, Cathedral Music Trust, on November 12, 2024 will attend Evensong, followed by a Reception, in Southwark Cathedral, London.

Evensong is a church service traditionally held near sunset focused on singing psalms and other biblical canticles.

"Since our foundation in 1956 (as Friends of Cathedral Music), we have made a positive difference to the lives of many thousands of children, young people and adult musicians across the UK and Ireland. "In 2020, we became a new charity, Cathedral Music Trust, building on the former organization’s foundations, aiming to support excellence, broaden participation and increase the long-term sustainability of the cathedral music sector."

£6,000,000+ given in support since 1956.

"We have invested in programs that both widen participation by giving youngsters their first taste of cathedral music, and that develop expertise, through the training of choristers, organ and choral scholars, and by supporting professional roles within cathedral music departments.

"Our investment enables music departments to enhance what they already achieve as well as develop new work, giving them time to evaluate its success and secure the means to continue the work beyond the scope of our support."

THE BRUTES by Casey Wimpee and directed by Sara Fellini. Presented by spit&vigor, the performances take place at The Players, 16 Gramercy Park South in the the historic home of Edwin Booth on November 5th & 6th, 2024.

Featuring Chloé Bell, Adam Belvo, Aaron Dorelien, Sara Fellini, Sara Horiuchi, Colt Keeney, Jesse Metz, Nicholas Thomas, Perri Yaniv, George Walsh, Dara Weinstein.

"The Brutes" takes you backstage of an historic performance of Shakespeare's "Julius Caesar" featuring the renowned theatrical Booth family - brothers Edwin, Junius Jr. and John Wilkes Booth. This was the first and only time that the three brothers shared a stage together. The backstage drama becomes the focus of this portrait of their tempestuous relationship fraught with political conflict ending in an American tragedy.

"Included in the evening: Our host Paul Valle, the great grandson of Junius Brutus Booth, is happy to give tours of the Players mansion before or after the performance, including if available - Edwin's historic bedroom on the top floor where he breathed his last breath. The Players has made the decision to not restore or preserve the bedroom, and so the room is exactly as it was when the doors were closed on it the final time after Edwin's death. It has life in it, as well as death, and it's a very moving experience to witness it. We are very grateful to Paul and his wife Jan for offering this opportunity that we can pass along," states the spit&vigor release.

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JAMES BRINING will be joining the Royal Lyceum Theatre Edinburgh, Scotland as their new Artistic Director and co-CEO full time beginning April 2025.

James is joining Royal Lyceum Theatre from Leeds Playhouse, where he has been the Artistic Director since 2012.

During his tenure, James has directed over 20 different productions, from new writing to classics, large-scale musicals to studio work, and most recently highly acclaimed productions of My Fair Lady and Oliver! which have both been nominated for UK Theatre 2024 awards. Presiding over the production of around 140 original productions, including 65 new commissions, he has overseen work of regional, national and international significance. He also led the theatre through its £16.8m redevelopment, returning Leeds Playhouse to its original name and turning the building to face the city, further embedding it as a civic hub for the whole community. The Playhouse was named the UK’s Most Welcoming Theatre in 2022.

The Leeds recruitment process for Brining's replacement will begin shortly.

ESTEE LAUDER has announced that Stéphane de La Faverie will succeed Fabrizio Freda as Estée Lauder’s new president and CEO effective January 1, 2025.

de La Faverie will report directly to the company’s board of directors.

Additionally, the company added that William P. Lauder will be stepping down from his current role as executive chairman of the company and will remain chair of the board, following the company’s upcoming annual meeting of stockholders.

The company further said that with more than 25 years of prestige beauty experience, de La Faverie joined the company in 2011 and currently serves as executive group president, overseeing many of the company's brands across its portfolio, from billion-dollar-plus brands such as Estée Lauder to scaling and developing brands including Jo Malone London, The Ordinary, and Le Labo. Prior to his current role, he led the Estée Lauder brand.

AMERICAN HUMANE AWARD HONORS UNSUNG DOG HEROES who "make the world a better, kinder place" have been announced.

The organization, headquartered in Washington, D.C., was founded in 1877 and is the country’s first national humane organization committed to animals.

The annual nationwide competition identifies America’s best dogs in five key categories: military dogs; law enforcement and first responder dogs; service and guide or hearing dogs; therapy dogs; and emerging hero and shelter dogs.

The winning dog in each category will be honored at a gala in Palm Beach, Florida, on November 8, 2024 where the animals will walk, sniff and run down a red carpet.

The finalists in each category are:

MILITARY: Niki, a five-year-old Belgian Malinois-German shepherd mix from Seattle, Washington. She started with the U.S. Coast Guard in 2021 and helps detect explosives alongside her human partner, Petty Officer Alicia Horn. Niki has completed over 250 high-stakes operations and logged more than 4,000 working hours protecting the American public, per the American Humane. She helps protect the safety and security of the Washington State Ferries and has boarded over 250 vessels thus far.

LAW ENFORCEMENT & FIRST RESPONDER:

Bo and his handler Sgt. David Rowland. Photo: American Humane.

Bo, an 18-month-old male bloodhound from Gastonia, North Carolina, who works with the Gastonia Police Department and his handler Sgt. David Rowland. Though still young, he's been saving lives and solving crimes since he was just eight months old, according to the American Humane. Bloodhounds, known for being easily frightened and gentle giants at heart, are not the typical K-9 officer pick — but American Humane said Bo broke the mold.

Although still terrified of Halloween decorations, during his first mission, Bo was able to successfully track down a missing 11-year-old child with autism and calm down the distressed boy as they waited for help to arrive. Since then, Bo has helped locate several lost senior citizens, a 7-year-old kidnapping victim, and "even chased down a four-hour-old scent trail to find robbery suspects." SERVICE: Sampson,

Sampson, the Science Service Dog. Photo: American Humane

an 11-year-old golden retriever service dog based in Sierra Vista, Arizona, recently retired after spending years with his other half — a woman named Joey who was in an accident in 2006. She suffered a traumatic brain injury and over 23 broken bones. For almost a decade, Sampson was by Joey’s side helping her recover and manage a new way of life. Joey told American Humane that Sampson learned over 245 commands to help her with her recovery. He was even able to go into a medicine cabinet, open it, grab the correct medication and carry it to Joey, followed by a bottle of water to swallow the pills.

When Joey decided to pursue a neuroscience degree after her accident, she encountered issues with getting Sampson into science labs, as there were concerns about contamination and safety hazards.

After she fought hard to find ways to include Sampson, he took on the nickname of "Science Service Dog." Today, the pair advocates for service dog handlers in science while Sampson spends his golden years off-duty, according to American Humane.

THERAPY: Dayo, a nine-year-old, male Rhodesian ridgeback, of Dublin, California, began his life as a puppy companion to a baby cheetah named Pancake at the Wildlife Safari in Winston, Oregon. Dayo and the cheetah were born on the same day, growing up as pseudo-siblings until Pancake tragically passed away in 2017 from health complications.

After officials decided to remove Dayo from the zoo, he was placed with owner, Liz — who put his lovable personality and emotional intelligence to good use as a therapy dog, according to American Humane. Today, Dayo brings love and hope to people in need at several life-changing facilities, such as the George Mark Children’s House, Camp Erin, Children’s Hospital and more.

SHELTER: Penny, a four-year-old mixed breed from Louisville, Kentucky, was a rescue animal who now works as a therapy dog for children. Penny was rescued in 2020 after she was thrown out of a moving car and left on the side of the road, according to American Humane.

After making a recovery from what appeared to be long-term abuse, Penny was fostered by two owners. The two high school teachers loved the three-legged dog at first sight. For over a year, the foster parents helped Penny relearn how to walk — even carrying her in a backpack or stroller when necessary. They ended up adopting her into their home. Today Penny shows no signs of physical or emotional trauma. She's described as trusting, loving and gentle. She works as a therapy dog for children of all ages and is an advocate for stricter anti-animal abuse laws, per the American Humane.

The winner of the 2024 American Humane Hero Dog Award will be announced on November 8, 2024.

GET WELL SOON TO . . .

CHRIS HANDLEY the Artistic Director of Alleyway Theatre in Buffalo, New York.

Handley was scheduled to appear in the production The Cottage but fractured his humerus impacting rehearsals and production dates. New dates for the production will be announced.

Everyone wishes Chris Handley the best.



PACIFIC OVERTURES Book by John Weidman. A unique score by Stephen Sondheim.

Directed by former EWP Artistic Director Tim Dang.

Set in 1853, Pacific Overtures explores the intersection of Western and Eastern cultures during the pivotal moment in Japan's history when it was opened to the West, through the lens of two friends caught in the change. The show is renowned for its innovative storytelling, which beautifully fuses Kabuki theater and Broadway traditions.

Featuring Jon Jon Briones in his return to Pacific Overtures after48 years, cast as The Reciter and Gedde Watanabe as Shogun's Mother/OldMan.

The cast also includes Scott Keiji Takeda as the Thief, Brian Kim McCormick as Kayama, Adam Kaokept as Manjiro, Kerry K. Carnahan as Lorde Abe, Ashley En-Fu Matthews as Tamate, Kavin Panmeechao as the British Admiral, Kurt Kanazawa as the Fisherman, Sittichai Chaiyahat as the Warrior, Nina Kasuya as the Dutch Admiral, Aric Martin as the Madam and French Admiral, Gemma Pedersen as the American Admiral/Boy, Kit Dezolt as Commodore Perry, Norge Yip as the Russian Admiral, with Jordan Fan and Jonah Meyer as understudies.

The creative team includes direction by Tim Dang, musical direction by Marc Macalintal, choreography by Yuka Takara, Kabuki consulting and choreography by Gankyo Nakamura, Japanese music direction by Shih-wei Wu and Tsugaru Terry, scenic design by Tesshi Nakagawa, costume design by Naomi Yoshida, lighting design by Brian Gale, audio design by Cricket Myers, projections design by David Murakami, properties design by Glenn Michael Baker, make-up and hair design by Yoko Haitz, fight choreography by Amanda Noriko Newman, assistant music direction by Miki Yokomizu, assistant costume design by J.J. Javier, assistant projections design by Sam Clevenger. Pacific Overtures is stage-managed by Edward Khris Fernandez with Mikayla Bettner and Bonnie Lynn Montano acting as Assistant Stage Managers.

Pacific Overtures will also feature musicians Philip Moore on reeds, Richie Francisco on trumpet, May Zeng on trombone, Brian Paul Benning and Peter Marcos on violin, Rebecca Yeh on cello, and Kyle Dombroski on percussion.

The East-West Players production will run at East West Players’ David Henry Hwang Theater from November 7 through December 1, 2024, with opening night on Sunday, November 10, 2024.

East West Players (EWP), the largest producing organization of Asian American artistic work, was founded in 1965, at a time when Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders (APIs) faced limited or no opportunities to see their experiences reflected outside of stereotypical and demeaning caricatures in the American landscape. EWP not only ensures that API stories are told, but works to increase access, inclusion, and representation in entertainment and media.

November 17, 2024: Following the performance, the venue will host their Look Back and Look Forward Post-Show Panel. Pacific Overtures cast members Jon Jon Briones & Gedde Watanabe will discuss the impact of Pacific Overtures and AAPI representation on Broadway. On that same night, a Pacific Overtures Alumni Night will take place, featuring EWP alumni from the theater’s previous productions of Pacific Overtures.

KING JAMES by Rajiv Joseph.

Directed by Hampstead's Associate Director Alice Hamilton.

"All the time we invested. In him. All the money. All the games we went to. The basis of our entire friendship… LeBron for the win. LeBron for the win…"

The play will star Sam Mitchell as Matt, and Enyi Okoronkwo as Shawn.

A remarkably moving new play about friendship between two men thrown together by chance. The next 12 years prove as defining, dramatic, and sometimes heart-breaking for Matt and Shawn as they do for the Cavs – and for their mutual passion for basketball and the great 'King' LeBron James.

The fortunes of the Cavaliers are about to change: the great LeBron James, the biggest star in basketball, is coming to Cleveland. But when superfan Matt’s latest business venture turns sour, he has to sell his most prized possession – his pair of Cavs season tickets. The buyer, Shawn, just sold his first short story – so watching his team in the flesh for the first time will be a sweet reward. Now just to figure out what to do with that second ticket…

Pulitzer Prize finalist Rajiv Joseph returns to Hampstead Theatre with the UK premiere of King James, with performances Downstairs at the Hampstead from November 15 - January 4, 2024.

THE DEVIL'S DISCIPLE written by George Bernard Shaw, with a new adaptation by David Staller.

Directed by David Staller.

It’s 1777 in New Hampshire and future of our country is at stake! What can one determined woman, and two confused men, do to ensure a Democratic future? In this new adaptation by director David Staller, female ferocity rules as five powerhouse women play out this legendary and almost true historical adventure comedy by George Bernard Shaw.

Gingold Theatrical Group presents this traditionally male-driven story with a cast of five diverse women who will interchangeably play all the roles to more fully embrace Shaw’s examination of the struggle for women’s rights in this country, and specifically at this point in history. Set during the American Revolution and embracing authentic events from 1777, this charged adaptation emphasizes the need for individuals to embrace their personal responsibility to keep democracy alive and well. Shaw wrote the play as a thinly veiled call for a Free Ireland, which accounts for it being banned in Britain for many years.

The cast of The Devil’s Disciple includes Nadia Brown, Susan Cella, Tina Chilip, Teresa Avia Lim, and Folami Williams. Fiona Maguire and Lauren Zbylski serve as understudies.

The creatives are: set design by Lindsay Genevieve Fuori, costume design by Tracy Christensen, lighting design by Jamie Roderick, and sound design by Julian Evans. Nicole Rozanski is the property designer and Geoff Josselson, CSA is the Casting Director. The production stage manager is April Ann Kline and David Vandervliet is the assistant stage manager. Production management is by Aurora Productions. Natalie Kane is the Assistant Director. Key-art design is by Maya Barbon, with website and marketing coverage by Kevin Sprague at Studio Two.

Presented by Gingold Theatrical Group, The Devil’s Disciple, in Theatre Two at Theatre Row, New York City for a run through November 23, 2024.

A CHRISTMAS CAROL by Charles Dickens. Adapted for the stage by Jack Thorne.

Directed by Tony award winner Matthew Warchus.

A Christmas Carol fills the auditorium to the brim with mince pies, music and merriment. A?unique staging immerses the audience in London’s longest running adaptation of this beloved festive favourite.

Starring John Simm as everyone’s favorite miser, Ebenezer Scrooge.

Featuring Rob Compton (Bob Cratchit); Raffaella Covino (Swing/Dance Captain); Juliette Crosbie (Belle); Jamie Doncaster (Swing); Geraint Downing (Ferdy/George); Kimmy Edwards (Mrs Cratchit); Jenny Fitzpatrick (Ghost of Christmas Present/Mrs Fezziwig); Mark Goldthorp (Father/Marley); Ahmed Hamad (Fred); Julie Jupp (Ghost of Christmas Past); Baker Mukasa (Nicholas/Schoolmaster); Alastair Parker (Fezziwig); Georgina Sadler (Little Fan); Lillie-Pearl Wildman (Jess); Connor Wood (Young Ebenezer).

They are also joined by Casey-Indigo Blackwood-Lashley, Freddie Marshall-Ellis, Freddie Merritt and Vinnie Stone, who share the role of Tiny Tim.

Matthew Warchus’big-hearted, smash hit production returns to The Old Vic playing from November 9, 2024– January 4, 2025 at The Old Vic in London.

Each year The Old Vic offers the audiences an opportunity to support a charity throughout the run of A Christmas Carol via tap to donate, text to donate, online donations and bucket collections at the end of every performance.

Over the last seven years, these collections have raised over £1.5 million globally for deprivation-focused charities. This year, The Old Vic will raise money in aid of the Waterloo Foodbank.

Steve Chalke MBE, founder of the Waterloo Foodbank, said:
"A Christmas Carol tells an extraordinary story that still resonates with us because today, just as in Dickens’ time, the gulf between the life choices and even life expectancy of the rich and poor is achingly wide. That’s why we at the Waterloo Foodbank are deeply grateful to all at The Old Vic for their passionate support in our task of providing essential food along with wraparound care for individuals and families in crisis in Waterloo, the home of The Old Vic, and far beyond."

THE CHRISTINE JORGENSEN SHOW a play with music. Playwright/Co-Composer: Donald Steven Olson. Co-Composer/Musical Director: Mark Nadler.

Directed by Michael Barakiva.

"With Jesse James Keitel and Mark Nadler.

Set in New York City and Pittsburgh in 1953, the inspiring play with music follows the real-life professional and personal relationship between actress-singer Christine Jorgensen, the first transgender individual to become widely known in America, and forgotten songwriter, dancer and pianist Myles Bell.

"With a heartwarming book and witty songs, Jesse James Keitel (Jorgensen) and Mark Nadler (Bell) tell a story about two entertainers at different stages of their careers putting together a nightclub act. In the process, a powerful story emerges about being courageous enough to follow your dreams, listen to your heart and embrace your authentic self."

The creatives are: Scenic design is by Riw Rakkulchon, costume design is by Suzanne Chesney, lighting design is by Calvin Anderson, sound design is by Jacqui Herter, props design is by Samantha Shoffner, and choreography is by Banji Aborisade. Production Stage Manager is Nat Kelley DiMario. Casting Director is The Telsey Office, Charlie Hano CSA. General management for ADH Theatricals is Amanda Cooper/ALC Management. Performances at HERE in New York City.

SHIT. MEET. FAN. written and directed by Obie Award winner and Tony Award nominee Robert O’Hara. Based on the Lotus Production and Medusa film Perfect Strangers by Paolo Genovese.

Here’s the game... Phones Out. Face Up. Volume High. Every text, every email, every call must be shared aloud. That’s what a group of long-time friends gather to play on the night of the eclipse. With the cocktails flowing among grownups who refuse to grow up, outrageous secrets and skeletons begin to emerge... Shit. Meet. Fan. Are they ready for the ensuing chaos? Are you?

The mayhem unfolds in real time in this World Premiere.

The cast includes Garret Dillahunt, Genevieve Hannelius, five-time Emmy Award winner and Tony Award winner Neil Patrick Harris, Tony Award winner Jane Krakowski, Tony Award nominee Billy Magnussen, Emmy Award winner Debra Messing, Tramell Tillman, and Golden Globe nominee Constance Wu .

The creatives are: scenic design by Tony Award winner Clint Ramos, costume design by Tony Award nominee Sarafina Bush, lighting design by Alex Jainchill, and sound design by Tony Award nominee Palmer Hefferan. Imani Champion is the Production Stage Manager. Casting is by The Telsey Office.

Performances through December 15, 2024 at MCC Theater’s The Newman Mills Theater in New York City.

YOUR NAME MEANS DREAM written and directed by José Rivera.

This production will star Sara Koviak and Anne O’ Sullivan, who both originated these roles when it debuted at the Contemporary American Theater Festival in 2023.

"Aislin is getting older and suffers the inevitable indignities of being human — and hates technology. Stacy, her caregiver, is perfectly toned, doesn’t age, and is utterly in control — because she’s an AI robot. And there’s a new algorithm out there called AOS or Approximation of Soul. Does Stacy have it? José Rivera examines how we live, die, and form our sense of self in a world that’s increasingly saturated with technology.

"We are thrilled to present Your Name Means Dream, a deeply thought-provoking and timely piece by the visionary José Rivera. This play beautifully explores the complex intersections of humanity and technology and challenges us to reflect on what it truly means to have a soul in an increasingly digital world. We are excited to share this compelling story with our audiences as part of our commitment to presenting bold, innovative works that spark conversation and thought." SuzAnne Barabas, Artistic Director of NJ Rep.

The creative team includes set design by Jessica Parks, lighting design by Jill Nagle, technical direction by Brian Snyder, costume design by Patricia E. Doherty, sound design by Nick Simone, assistant lighting designer is Janey Huber, the production stage manager is Kristin Pfeifer and assistant stage manager is Lauren Capp.

Performances through November 24, 2024 at New Jersey Rep in Long Branch, New Jersey.

WE LIVE IN CAIRO featuring a book, music & lyrics by Jonathan Larson Grant winners and NYTW Usual Suspects The Lazours.

Choreography and movement direction by Ann Yee.

Directed by Taibi Magar.

Inspired by the young Egyptians who took to the streets amidst the throes of the Arab Spring, We Live in Cairo follows six student activists using their street art, photography and song to overthrow a regime older than they are. Winner of the Richard Rodgers Award for Musical Theater, this soaring new musical from Jonathan Larson Grant winners and NYTW Usual Suspects Daniel & Patrick Lazour journeys from the jubilation of the Tahrir Square protests through the aftermath of the years that followed. As escalating division and violence lead to a military crackdown, the young revolutionaries of Cairo must weigh the cost of how—or even whether—to keep their dreams of change alive.

The cast includes Ali Louis Bourzgui, Drew Elhamalawy, John El-Jor, Nadina Hassan, Michael Khalid Karadsheh, and Rotana Tarabzouni.

The creatives are: scenic design by Tilly Grimes, costume design by Dina El-Aziz, lighting design by Bradley King, sound design by Justin Stasiw , and video design by David Bengali. Orchestrations are by Daniel Lazour and Michael Starobin, with vocal arrangements by Madeline Benson . Madeline Benson is the Music Supervisor, Mona Seyed-Bolorforosh is the Music Director, Xavier Clark is the Voice and Text Coach, and Jeff Brancato is the Production Stage Manager. Casting is by Claire Yenson. Produced by special arrangement with Madison Wells Live.

Performances through November 24, 2024 off-Broadway at New York Theatre Workshop.

THE GODDAMN COUPLE DOWN THE HALL (OH… AND MERRY CHRISTMAS) written by Mark Wilding.

Directed by Charlie Mount.

It's Christmas Day in Pasadena, and the Woodruff clan has gathered to celebrate. What promises to be a beautiful day full of good cheer gets turned on its head by the foul-mouthed couple down the hall, who subject the Woodruffs to one screaming match after another. The question soon arises: Has the couple's mutual hatred escalated to murder?

Featuring: Cecil Jennings, Presciliana Esparolini, Sam Gregory, Dave Kumar, John Combs, Steve Nevil, Jill Remez, Liv Denevi.

The creatives are: Graphics: TABLE 7 Poster Design. Set Design: Jeff Rack. Light Design: David Johnson. Stage Manager: David Mingrino. Assistant Stage Manager: David Baer. Publicist: Philip Sokoloff. November 8 - December 15, 2024 at Theatre West, Los Angeles, CA.

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FINAL OVATION

TERI GARR Oscar nominated actress died October 29, 2024 in Los Angeles. She was 79.

A career spanning four decades,She began her career appearing as a dancer in Elvis Presley musicals. She would go on to amassed over 140 credits in film and television. Her accolades include an Academy Award nomination, a BAFTA Award nomination, and a National Board of Review Award.

She was an Alma mater of the Actors Studio, Lee Strasberg Theatre and Film Institute.

Known for Young Frankenstein; Oh, God!; Close Encounters of the Third Kind; Tootsie; Mr. Mom; Star Trek "Assignment: Earth".

In 1978, Garr appeared off-Broadway in a production of One Crack Out by Canadian playwright David French, playing the wife of Charlie, a pool hustler in Toronto. Garr returned to the stage in the fall of 2000, appearing in numerous off-Broadway performances of The Vagina Monologues opposite Sanaa Lathan and Julianna Margulies. In October 2002, Garr confirmed that she had been diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. . After disclosing her condition, she became a National Ambassador for the National Multiple Sclerosis Society and National Chair for the Society's Women Against MS program (WAMS). In November 2005, Garr was honored as the society's Ambassador of the Year.

In December 2006, Garr had a ruptured brain aneurysm. The aneurysm left her in a coma for a week, but after therapy, she regained speech and motor skills.

In the early 1980s, Garr was in a seven-year relationship with film executive Roger Birnbaum. After separating from Birnbaum, Garr was in a seven-year relationship with David Kipper, a physician, to whom she was introduced by Carrie Fisher. In 1993, Garr married building contractor John O'Neil, and that same year, in November, they were present when their adopted daughter Molly O'Neil was born. The couple divorced in 1996.

She is survived by her daughter Molly O’Neil, and grandson Tyryn age 6.

ROHIT BAL pioneer Indian designer has died following a long illness. He was 63.

The Fashion Design Council of India (FDCI) announced his death in a November 1, 2024 post on Instagram, saying that his work "redefined Indian fashion".

One of India's first designers, Bal popularized fashion designing as a viable, glamorous profession in the 1990s and many who followed him gave him credit for their success.

Bal's designs reached far and wide, with Hollywood actress Uma Thurman and supermodels Cindy Crawford, Naomi Campbell and Pamela Anderson wearing his creations. In 2001, tennis star Anna Kournikova walked the runway for his Paris show.

Best known for his use of lotus and peacock motifs, Bal used rich fabrics like velvet and brocade - his designs were elaborate, inspired by Indian grandeur and royalty.

Apart from designing clothes in his own label, Bal lent his name to endorse products from shoes to linen, had tie-ups with textile giants like the Aditya Birla Group and even ventured into designing jewellery and luxury watches. He also opened a line for children, saying that he believed that "children are a major consumer class in urban India".

Bal crafted costumes for the popular television Indian game show Kaun Banega Crorepati (Who Wants to be a Millionaire?) and designed costumes for the cabin crew of British Airways.

After completing his formal education in fashion design at the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) in Delhi, Bal embarked on a journey that would redefine Indian fashion.

In 1996, Time magazine listed him as India's 'Master of fabric and fantasy'.

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Laura Deni