“The Marvelous Wonderettes” “sparkles and shines!”
September 10, 2023Lisa Jarish says “The Marvelous Wonderettes” “sparkles and shines” in her review for Berkshire On Stage
“Each performer creates a strong, vivid and unique character in their own right, and tells her character’s story through the more than two dozen songs that flow virtually non-stop through the production. Their harmonies are as full as their crinoline skirts”
“Trivers delivers big-time with a trifecta of plaintive and heartfelt vocals…A most worthy debut on the Mac’s stage indeed.”
“Delivering her story through a stunning three-song Prestage reveals her character’s journey through love, heartache, and heartbreak, delivering “Son of a Preacher Man,” and“ Maybe,” with ever-increasing anguish, until finally “Leader of the Pack” shatters her heart and the hearts of her quartet-mates listening to this heart-wrenching, soul-baring vocal confession.”
“Rachel Pantazis…has left an indelible mark on this season with her glorious, powerful soprano voice and her in-depth characterizations”
“(Pantazis’) joy shines through with her performance”
“And then there’s Cydney Gleckner. What a joy she has been at the Mac this summer. She has brought her considerable vocal chops to every production she has graced this season, and as Suzy…she turns in yet another strong signature performance.”
“Gleckner brings down the house as Suzy first pours out her anguish with her marriage with “Maybe I know” and “Rescue Me”, before segueing into demanding “Respect” in a powerful rendition that rivals Aretha Franklin at her best.”
“Ashley DeLane Burger has hit it out of the park with her solid, tight direction and inspired choreography.”
“Annie Watson’s costume design perfectly captures the full flavor of 1950s and the 1960s…Their work is accented and completed by the hair and wig design of Emily Allen, who “Marvelously” coifs the Wonderettes for their prom and reunion appearances.”
“Andrew Gmoser’s lighting, as always, sparkles and shines in all the right places, and takes a dark and almost sinister turn when called for.”
(Saunders and Colarusso) have created a most effective and evocative set for the show.”
“The Marvelous Wonderettes leaves us applauding, smiling, humming, and with warm fuzzy memories of days gone by to hold onto until the 2024 season arrives.”
Go To The Marvelous Wonderettes Page
Move Over Jersey Boys, The Wonderettes Are Here!
September 4, 2023MAC-HAYDN SEASON CLOSES OUT WITH 50S/60S HIT ‘THE MARVELOUS WONDERETTES’
(August 31, 2023–Chatham, NY) The Mac-Haydn Theatre’s 2023 season concludes with 50s and 60s jukebox musical, “The Marvelous Wonderettes,” running September 7-17.
Created by Roger Bean, “The Marvelous Wonderettes” is a jukebox blast from the past. It’s the night of the 1958 Springfield High School prom, and the night’s entertainment consists of four best friends; Betty Jean, Cindy Lou, Missy, and Suzy. As they navigate life, love and the Prom Queen competition, the girls serenade with the classics from the decade. Ten years later, the girl group reunites stronger than ever, learning that the power of friendship will always keep them together—bonded forever in four-part harmony.
Ashley DeLane Burger makes her directorial debut with the production, following her work on the 2023 sell-out production of “Jersey Boys” as choreographer, and last season’s “A Chorus Line” (Associate Choreographer) and “Forever Plaid” (Choreographer, 2022 BroadwayWorld Award). She is joined by Music Director Eric Shorey and Assistant Choreographer Bella DePaola.
The production will feature lighting design by Andrew Gmoser, costume design by Annie Watson, sound design by Sean McGinley, hair and makeup design by Emily Allen, and props design by Adriana Ayala.
Starring as the four Wonderettes are Stephanie Prestage as Cindy Lou, Rachel Pantazis as Missy, Cydney Gleckner as Suzy, and, making her Mac-Haydn Debut, Adeline Trivers as Betty Jean.
Audiences will hear favorite 50s and 60s hits; featuring over 30 throwback hits like “Mr. Sandman,” “Lollipop,” “Stupid Cupid,” “Lipstick on Your Collar,” “Respect” and “It’s In His Kiss (The Shoop Shoop Song),” “The Marvelous Wonderettes” is guaranteed to have audiences humming along in their seats.
For tickets and information, please visit www.machaydntheatre.org or call the box office at (518) 392-9292.
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About the Mac-Haydn Theatre
Founded in 1969, the Mac-Haydn Theatre strives to present innovative, diverse and professional musical theatre productions to the residents of Columbia County and beyond. We aim to cultivate young talent for careers in theatre and seek to provide a supportive environment for the creation of new musical theatre works.
Jersey Boys a “fascinating” production
August 19, 2023J. Peter Bergman calls “Jersey Boys” “a fine, fine production on every level” in his review for Berkshire Bright Focus
“Maguire is an excellent Valli. He is a joy to watch and to listen to.”
“Kelley does splendidly in this role, even managing to touch my heart with his sincerity and his singing.”
“Watching the group grow in their varied and difficult directions is fascinating theatre.”
“Gabe Belyeu plays lyricist/producer Bob Crewe beautifully. Kevin Weldon makes a sinister, sentimental Gyp DeCarlo totally believable.”
“This production is fascinating to watch. Director John Saunders has given the show drive and energy and still made each character stand out as an individual. He and choreographer Ashley DeLane Burger have brought us the movement and coordination of pop music of the period with a true sense of recognition.”
“Both the play and the musical numbers look great on the Mac-Haydn stage thanks to scenic designer Alivia Cross whose work transforms spaces thanks to the superb lighting by Andrew Gmoser. Emily Allen’s hair and wig design highlights the period of the show as well as do the costumes designed by Claire Mezzetta. This is a fine, fine production on every level.”
Lisa Jarish says “Jersey Boys” “explodes with perfection” in her review for Berkshire On Stage
“In Jersey Boys, Saunders has created another of his signature directorial triumphs, with a full-blooded, full-scale humdinger of a show, a good old-fashioned jukebox musical perfectly“seasoned” with incredible vocals and riveting performances, made all the more impressive and impactful because it is not “too good to be true” but actually true.”
“The Mac has assembled a veritable holy grail of performers to enact the title roles, and I have to confess I may have spent a good portion of the performance with my mouth gaping open, slack-jawed, in absolute awe of the perfection of sound coming from the golden throats of Conor Fallon, Andrew Burton Kelley, John Hannigan, Andrew Maguire.”
“The non-vocal performances of Fallon, Kelley, and Hannigan, each narrating their part of the story, are incomparable. Each embraces and truly personifies the character they represent, bringing a depth and veracity and sincerity to their roles that is essential to a fully-realized production.”
“without a doubt Andrew Maguire steals the show… in his Mac-Haydn debut, no less. As Frankie Valli, Maguire is nothing short of phenomenal, with a voice born to the role, hitting those iconic high falsetto notes with absolute purity and assurance.”
“Belyeu can always be counted to embrace whatever role he undertakes. His performances are unfailingly filled with the sheer joy of being given the opportunity to perform, to portray a character and make it his own.”
“Jacob Atkins plays Joey…AKA Joe Pesci …with an endearing hyperactive enthusiasm perfect for the character, and Kevin Weldon turns in a marvelous but all-too-brief appearance as New Jersey mob boss Gyp DeCarlo”
“Rachel Pantazis creates powerful moments in her scenes with Maguire’s Valli.”
“Kudos to choreographer Ashley DeLane Burger for her success in choreographing and coordinating the perfectly synchronized movements of legs and hands that came to be associated with the Four Seasons.”
Bill Kellert praises cast AND creatives of “Jersey Boys” in his review for Nippertown
“Mac-Haydn’s Producing Artistic Director, John Saunders, once again takes the directorial reins to steer this mammoth production.”
“Saunders does an admirable job not only directing the show but also assembling a strong technical crew as well as a talented cast of Mac-Haydn vets and newbies to help achieve his goals.”
“Choreographer Ashley DeLane Burger does a wonderful job recreating the feeling of the 1960s.”
“With its many moving pieces, Alvia Cross’s set design creates thirty-some scenes in the first act alone. Andrew Gmoser’s lighting and Sean McGinley’s sound design put you in the vibe of the time. Emily Allen’s hair design and wigs and Claire Mezzetta’s costumes round out the rock and roll era and sweep the audience back in the time continuum.”
“Shorey knows how to get the most wonderful harmonies out of the foursome as well as create beautiful numbers from the full cast. Shorey has proven to be Mac-Haydn’s strongest creative asset, from leading the band to musically directing the cast.”
“Gaudio, who never really wanted to be in the spotlight, rather preferring the background writing music, is masterfully handled by Andrew Burton Kelly. Kelly has a wonderful ability to internalize his emotions in his acting and bring it all to the surface in his vocal performance.”
“Perhaps, as it should be, the night belonged to Mac newcomer Andrew Maguire as Frankie Valli. Maguire has a voice and range that match the real Valli, note for note. His crystal-clear tenor and icy steel falsetto brought down the house song after song, most notably with the heart-wrenching rendition of “Fallen Angel.””
“It should be noted that most of the cast doubles or triples roles throughout the production with ease and finesse.”
Jeffrey Borak calls “Jersey Boys” “Breathtaking” in his review for The Berkshire Eagle
“Director John Saunders’ production of the jukebox musical “Jersey Boys” at the Mac-Haydn Theatre opens in breathtaking fashion and never lets go for an instant.”
“Beyond the smooth, confident sweep of Saunders’ production, the show’s recreation of The Four Seasons sound is at once astonishing, evocative, singular.”
“Close your eyes as the show’s Frankie Valli, Andrew Maguire, sings and you could easily believe Valli himself has taken over. Maguire’s performance overall is full and rich — an affecting portrait of a young man whose coming of age over time is roughly gained.”
“The performances throughout are strong and convincing.”
“Andrew Burton Kelley is pitch-perfect as Bob Gaudio, whose talent as a songwriter and personal sense of reason and clarity is the perfect counterpoint to Tommy’s lesser impulses.”
“Gabe Belyeu is delightful as Bob Crewe, the Four Seasons’ manager, producer and lyricist. There are equally convincing turns by Kevin Weldon as Gyp DeCarlo, a mobster who takes a liking to Frankie; Bella DePaola as Lorraine, Frankie’s second wife; and Rachel Pantazis as Frankie’s alcoholic first wife, Mary Delgado.”
“Buoyed by music director Eric Shorey’s support, and the bold, imaginative sweep of Saunders’ vision, this youthful, appealing, talented ensemble more than delivers the goods.”
The Music of Stephen Sondheim Returns to the Mac-Haydn
August 17, 2023MAC-HAYDN TO TRIBUTE STEPHEN SONDHEIM IN REVUE LATER THIS MONTH
A tribute to the late composer Stephen Sondheim will be presented at the Mac-Haydn Theatre August 23 and 25.
Widely regarded as one of the most influential composers in Broadway history, Stephen Sondheim redefined the parameters of musical theatre throughout his 50-year career. For two performances only, a cast of six Mac-Haydn favorites will celebrate the award-winning, culture-shifting work of the legendary composer and lyricist.
The revue features Gabe Belyeu and Madison Stratton, last seen in “42nd Street” this season, Julie Galorenzo (Xanadu, Ragtime), Monica M. Wemitt (Hello Dolly, The Full Monty), James Benjamin Rodgers (Les Miserables, Exiled), and John Saunders (Hairspray, Carousel). Jillian Zack Music Directs and accompanies the cast on piano. The Limited Performance is directed by John Saunders, with Eric Shorey as Music Coordinator.
“Sondheim Tribute Revue” is the second of four cabaret-style productions in the 2023 Mac-Haydn’s Limited Performance Series. Following the two performances are: “Showstoppers” on September 2, and “Still Within The Sound Of My Voice: The Songs of Linda Ronstadt,” featuring Elizabeth Ward Land, on September 13.
For tickets and information, please visit www.machaydntheatre.org or call the box office at (518) 392-9292.
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About the Mac-Haydn Theatre
Founded in 1969, the Mac-Haydn Theatre strives to present innovative, diverse and professional musical theatre productions to the residents of Columbia County and beyond. We aim to cultivate young talent for careers in theatre and seek to provide a supportive environment for the creation of new musical theatre works.
Godspell a “edgy, piercing, gritty, brilliant” piece of theatre
August 5, 2023Lisa Jarisch calls “Godspell” “edgy, piercing, gritty, brilliant” in her review for Berkshire On Stage
“This Godspell, this gospel according to Compton, is an edgy, piercing, gritty, brilliant piece of theatre, certain to take its place as one of, if not THE, most stellar productions of the 2023 season.”
“Compton has taken the skeleton of the original piece and built an entirely new body of work, maintaining the integrity of the Gospel message while injecting new depths of meaning to the simple parables, stories and teachings that make-up the bulk of the production.”
“The songs remain the same, the plot most assuredly remains true to sharing the Gospel of Matthew, but this is singularly unique and masterful production, filled with contemporary references, exposing an occasional seamy underbelly of the beasts of betrayal, and overall offering gritty, sharp-edged, sometimes sharp-tongued lessons in life, love, and faith.”
“Stephanie Prestage gives the first of the disciple “solos” scattered like good seed through the show, delivering a beautiful rendition of “Day by Day,” probably the most recognizable song associated with the show. Her strong, pure voice swells with her newly-burgeoning love and desire to follow Jesus, and sets the bar high for all the solos to follow.”
“wherever each solo opportunity appears, it fits seamlessly into the production, elevating the high quality caliber of talent that bursts from this production”
“Fallon gives a bravura performance in his vocals and his acting, moving deftly from the enthusiastic first days as a preacher of parables, teller of tales and teacher of morals, to the tortured Son of Man approaching the end predestined for him as the Son of God.”
“It is always a joy to have Mac-Haydn favorite Andrew Burton Kelley grace the Mac-Haydn stage, and in his role as John/Judas he is in his element, giving glorious depth of voice to each and every lyric.”
“Fallon and Kelley have clearly embraced and taken their roles into their hearts, and their souls.”
“As has come to be the norm with virtually every Mac-Haydn offering, the technical quality of the production more than holds its own against the performances in every way.”
“Angela Carstensen’s costume design is, in a word, inspired.”
“Godspell at the Mac is a truly unique, brilliant, thought-provoking, cutting edge work of theater art.”
Bill Kellert calls “Godspell” “stirring and moving” in his review for Nippertown
“Working with a small cast, every performer is given their moment or two or three to shine, and shine they do. Stephanie Prestage’s Day by Day is stirring and moving. Bella DePaola offers a gutsy, seductive rendition of Turn Back, O Man. Matthew Harper Stevenson offers up a very heartfelt Light of the World. Amber Mawande-Spytek, like many of the cast, returns to the Mac stage to offer her exceptional talents to the production. Jack Koch presents an exceptional We Beseech Thee.”
“Mac-Haydn vets, Conor Fallon and Andrew Burton Kelley have masterfully grabbed the reins of the two icons.”
“Conor Fallon never waivers as the Son of God. Well aware of the fate that awaits at the play’s end, he never loses the humanity of his character or the joy that inhabits his role. Fallon is much like the ringmaster of a very complex circus.”
“As a whole, this cast has risen to the complex simplicity that the show demands.”
Jeffrey Borak calls “Godspell” “fulfilling and rewarding” in his review for The Berkshire Eagle
“Director Trey Compton and choreographer Elizabeth McGuire hold nothing back in their approach to John-Michael Tebelak and Stephen Schwartz’ “Godspell” at the Mac-Haydn Theatre. They are blessed with an able young ensemble whose members are more than capable of delivering the goods.”
“Compton has pulled out all the stops here with glitz, glamor and a hint of the flower generation in a vibrant, neon-disco-psychedelic setting (evocatively conceived by scenic designer Tania Barrenechea and lighting designers Eoghan Hartley and Andrew Gmoser) that encompasses the entire theater — onstage and in the aisles.”
“This Jesus (an accomplished, gently authoritative, world-smart Conor Fallon) delivers his message through a series of parables, which he coaxes the members of this small community to act out.”
“This evening is at its most fulfilling and rewarding when it is singing and when it is moving to McGuire’s savvy, wonderfully theatrical choreography.”
“Among the production’s highlights are Stephanie Prestage’s “Day By Day,” an object lesson in stage presence; Kassi McMillan’s brassy, belting “Learn Your Lessons Well;” Jake Koch’s lead in “We Beseech Thee;” and Fallon and Kelley’s playful duet, “All For the Best.””
“this “Godspell” manages to fill its two hours in buoyant, abundantly theatrical ways that are, when all is sung and done, all for the best.”
The Sound of Music “Radiates Joy!”
July 22, 2023Lisa Jarisch calls “The Sound of Music” “sheer joy” in her review for Berkshire On Stage
“This is a production without a flaw. From the leading roles, to the briefest appearance of party guests and soldiers, not a foot or a note goes wrong.”
“The entire cast has clearly embraced the essence, the spirit and the meaning of this classic musical, and they put their heart and soul and not inconsiderable talents into every moment.”
“Naughton delivers each number, each note, each lyric, with absolute confidence, and it is clear that her debut at the Mac in this role surely is one of her favorite things. She radiates joy, confidence, poise, and assurance every moment on the stage.”
“If the performances of these young thespians who Saunders has collected are a portent of any kind, the future of live theatre is in most excellent hands and feet and voice with this next generation of up and coming performers.”
““Climb Ev’ry Mountain” is the soaring climax to Act 1, and is gloriously performed by Alex Haines as Mother Abbess. She enthralled the audience with her stunning delivery of this classic signature piece”
“With standard Mac-Haydn style and aplomb, the technical quality of the production is as noteworthy as the performances of the cast.”
J. Peter Bergman praises the direction and vision of “The Sound of Music” in his review for Berkshire Bright Focus
“the show itself is wonderful, due in part to the Maria of Sarah Naughton who is terrific. Credit goes to an excellent cast and a marvelous director, John Saunders.”
“Emily Allen, Judith Wyatt and Amber Mawande-Spytek are an excellent trio and with the Mother Abbess, played by the superb Alexandra Haines they leave a stunning impression of theatrical professionalism.When Haines sings “Climb Ev’ry Mountain at the end of Act One it is a definitive showstopping moment leaving the promise of grand things to come.”
“Director John Saunders has melded all of these characters (and more) seamlessly and the show profits from his vision and his control.”
Trixie Starr praises the cast of “The Sound of Music” in her review for Trixie’s List
“Sarah Naughton is a perfect Maria”
“Alexandra Haines, who plays The Mother Abbess, brings the house down with “Climb Every Mountain” – an immaculate performance”
“The Von Trapp children are AMAZING! They know every line, they do not miss a beat, and they are as young as eight-years old”
Jeffrey Borak calls out Alex Haines’ Mother Abbess in his review for The Berkshire Eagle
“In a performance that is noteworthy throughout her time onstage for its truthfulness and emotional authenticity, Haines delivers “Climb Ev’ry Mountain” not as a showpiece but, rather, with the grace, wisdom and nurturing spirit that shapes the drama of the sequence. In that moment, those hills around the Mac-Haydn certainly do come alive.”
The von Trapps are Back at the Mac-Haydn!
July 14, 2023THE HILLS ARE ALIVE FOR ‘THE SOUND OF MUSIC’ AT THE MAC-HAYDN
(July 13, 2023–Chatham, NY) Rodgers and Hammerstein classic “The Sound of Music” returns to the Mac-Haydn Stage for the first time in over a decade next week, running July 20 – 30.
The legendary story is a timeless tribute to the transformative power of love and music. After proving too high-spirited for her life as a postulant, Maria, an exuberant young governess brings music, laughter and joy back to a broken family—capturing the hearts of seven rambunctious children and lightening the demeanor of their militaristic father. Set in 1938 Austria before World War II, The Von Trapps face insurmountable odds as their beloved homeland confronts the impending arrival of the dangerous Nazi regime.
Producing Artistic Director John Saunders directs for the second time this season, following his fan-favorite “42nd Street” earlier this summer. Choreographer Elizabeth McGuire returns to the Mac-Haydn following her work on “Urinetown” and “The Full Monty” in 2022. They are joined by Music Director Eric Shorey and Assistant Music Director Alessandra Alcala.
The production will feature scenic design by Alivia Cross, making her Mac-Haydn design debut, along with lighting design by Andrew Gmoser, costume design by Angela Carstensen, sound design by Sean McGinley, hair and makeup design by Emily Allen, and props design by Adriana Ayala.
Leading the production as the spirited and musical Maria is Sarah Naughton, making her Mac-Haydn debut. Naughton has previously worked with companies including Second Stage, Lincoln Center, and A.R.T., in addition to her solo comedy and cabaret acts she has brought to venues including 54 Below. After his critically-acclaimed performance as Dan in last season’s “Next to Normal,” Eric Van Tielen joins the cast as Captain Georg von Trapp.
Ten local child actors join the company as the von Trapp children, split up into two alternating casts which the children have named themselves. In the “Maria’s Mischievous Misfits” cast are Molly Engelhardt (Louisa), Jack Holick (Kurt), Remy Orth (Brigitta), Adelaide Black (Marta), and Tegan Waters (Gretl). In the “G.O.A.T.s (Greatest of All Time)” cast are Riley O’Kane (Louisa), Emmett Mazurowski (Kurt), Quinn McCarthy (Brigitta), Makayla Shores (Marta), and Charlotte Miller (Gretl). Aidan Brennan and 2023 Company Member Rachel Revellese will perform with both casts as Friedrich and Liesl, respectively. A schedule of performances for both casts is available here.
Rounding out the cast are Liz Gurland (Cabaret, Pippin, Urinetown) as Elsa, Arthur Beutel (42nd Street, Footloose) as Max, and Alex Haines (Mac-Haydn Debut) as Mother Abbess.
Based on a true story, this epic classic is both thrilling and inspirational to audiences throughout the world. Featuring a trove of cherished songs, including “Climb Ev’ry Mountain,” “My Favorite Things,” “Do Re Mi,” “Sixteen Going on Seventeen” and the legendary title tune, The Sound of Music promises to bring classic charm and provide a delightful musical experience for the entire family.
“The Sound of Music” features music by Richard Rodgers, lyrics by Oscar Hammerstein II, and a book by Howard Lindsay and Russel Crouse. The story is suggested by The Trapp Family Singers by Maria Augusta Trapp.
For tickets and information, please visit www.machaydntheatre.org or call the box office at (518) 392-9292.
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About the Mac-Haydn Theatre
Founded in 1969, the Mac-Haydn Theatre strives to present innovative, diverse and professional musical theatre productions to the residents of Columbia County and beyond. We aim to cultivate young talent for careers in theatre and seek to provide a supportive environment for the creation of new musical theatre works.
Footloose is “pure fun and joy”
July 7, 2023Jeffrey Borak praises ‘Footloose’s “efficiency and integrity” in his review for The Berkshire Eagle
“Under Ledford’s direction, Prestage and Stevenson take their time developing the relationship between Ariel and Ren. The two have a beautifully crafted scene on an old bridge, late at night, that is as gentle and delicate as choreographer Bryan Knowlton’s dance numbers are big, bold and athletic.”
“Stevenson’s Ren has an unadorned, natural freshness and ingenuousness tempered somewhat by his upbringing in Chicago. He is amiable and sincere”
“As Ariel’s father, the silver-haired Dvorsky resists an easy choice to play the reverend as stock caricature. Rather, Dvorsky delivers a touching portrait of a man who, crippled by personal tragedy, is troubled by the ways in which he has gone off his path”
“Liz Gurland is just lovely as the reverend’s witty, loving wife, Vi”
“Jake Koch is a delight as Willard Hewitt”
““Footloose” clearly knows its audience. The show achieves what it needs to achieve with efficiency and integrity to the formula. To its credit, the Mac-Haydn’s “Footloose” offers formula with enrichment. Let’s hear it for the team.”
Romeo Barkley says ‘Footloose’ is “pure fun and joy” in the review for Trixie’s List
“Footloose is pure fun and joy! You can’t sit in your seat without tapping and bopping along. The high energy cast bursts across the theater’s stage from the very first musical note.”
“The music is easy to sing along to, but the dancing really zings.”
“The cast, music and choreography are so wonderful that you hope the show never ends! The joyful finale Footloose had people out of their seats and ready for a standing ovation!”
“Matthew Stevensen’s presence filled the stage…Stephanie Prestage’s Ariel transfixed the audience as she commanded the stage with utter professionalism and hit every dance move perfectly on cue.”
Bill Kellert calls ‘Footloose’ “exceptional” in his review for Nippertown
“The Mac-Haydn production has assembled its largest cast, over 30 performers, each of whom is better and more talented than the next.”
“At the helm of this mega production are three enormously talented Mac-Haydn vets: Director Erin Spears Ledford, Choreographer Bryan Knowlton, and Music Director Eric Shorey.”
“Ledford takes the cast through life’s emotional ups and downs in Bomont. She reigns in the drama and plays to the humor while always having her characters appear three-dimensional. Knowlton’s tight, complex choreography is exceptional.”
“Vocally, the show is stolen by Kassi McMillan with her rendition of the classic hit, Let’s Hear It For The Boy.”
“Dvorsky is always a pleasure to see on the Mac stage. His commanding presence and strong masterful voice offer a wonderful facade for this broken man.”
J. Peter Bergman praises the talent in ‘Footloose’ in his review for The Berkshire Edge
“Ariel Moore, played beautifully by Stephanie Prestage…”
“Rev. Shaw Moore is played with great style by George Dvorsky”
“Rusty, played by Kassi McMillan, one of three talented young women who serve as a sort of Greek Chorus in Act One”
“Mrs. Vi Moore is very nicely portrayed by Elizabeth Gurland whose Act Two song “Can You Find It in Your Heart?” is a highlight of the show.”
“The single set with large “pieces” designed by Erin Kiernan works well under the direction of Erin Spears Ledford.”
“The costumes designed by Bethany Marx give the show a timeless quality and look great.”
Cut Loose with FOOTLOOSE
July 2, 2023MAC-HAYDN THEATRE CUTS LOOSE WITH ‘FOOTLOOSE’ THIS MONTH
(June 29, 2023–Chatham, NY) The Mac-Haydn Theatre continues its summer season of hits with “Footloose,” the Tony and Grammy winning musical based on the decade-defining film of the same name, running July 6 – 16.
Coming to the Mac-Haydn stage for only the second time in its history, “Footloose” follows the story of Ren McCormack, who receives anything but a warm welcome in his new hometown when he learns of the local ban on dancing instituted by the controlling preacher. When the reverend’s rebellious daughter sets her sights on Ren, his reputation is on the line as he skirts the law, leading his class down the path to a proper prom night.
Director Erin Spears Ledford and Choreographer Bryan Knowlton, the team that earned rave reviews for their collaboration on last season’s “Kiss Me, Kate,” reunite to helm the production. They are joined by Music Director Eric Shorey and Assistant Music Director Alessandra Alcala.
The production will feature scenic design by Erin Kiernan, along with lighting design by Andrew Gmoser, costume design by Bethany Marx, sound design by Sean McGinley, hair and makeup design by Emily Allen, and props design by Adriana Ayala.
The theatre is delighted to welcome Stephanie Prestage and Matthew Stevenson as they make their Mac-Haydn debuts in the leading roles of Ariel Moore and Ren McCormack.
Broadway veteran George Dvorsky returns to the Mac-Haydn as Reverend Shaw Moore. After his audience-favorite performance as Cladwell in “Urinetown” last season, Dvorsky will debut his solo show “Something Wonderful,” as part of the Limited Performance Series later this summer in addition to his role as the Reverend. Dvorsky is joined by fellow Mac-Haydn alumni Liz Gurland (“Cabaret,” “Pippin,” “Urinetown”) as Vi Moore.
In supporting roles are Jonah Hale as Chuck, Kassi McMillan as Rusty, Jake Koch as Willard, Jeannine Trimboli as Ethel McCormack, Belle Babcock as Wendy Jo, and Amber Mawande-Spytek as Urleen. The full company features Mac-Haydn actors as well as an ensemble of local actors to round out the cast.
The “Footloose” hit score includes iconic numbers “Holding Out for a Hero,” “Let’s Hear it for the Boy,” and the iconic title song “Footloose.” With dazzling dance numbers and an electrifying musical score, Footloose celebrates the exhilaration of youth, the wisdom of listening to one another, and the power of forgiveness – and is sure to have audiences inspired to hit the dance floor.
“Footloose” features music by Tom Snow and lyrics by Dean Pitchford. The stage adaptation is by Dean Pitchford and Walter Bobbie, and is based on the original screenplay by Dean Pitchford.
The production features additional music by Eric Carmen, Sammy Hagar, Kenny Loggins and Jim Steinman.
For tickets and information, please visit www.machaydntheatre.org or call the box office at (518) 392-9292.
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About the Mac-Haydn Theatre
Founded in 1969, the Mac-Haydn Theatre strives to present innovative, diverse and professional musical theatre productions to the residents of Columbia County and beyond. We aim to cultivate young talent for careers in theatre and seek to provide a supportive environment for the creation of new musical theatre works.
42nd Street Earns “Magical” Reviews
June 23, 2023J. Peter Bergman calls ’42nd Street’ “extraordinary” in his review for The Berkshire Edge
“With her talented company under John Saunders superb direction, Modic has created the most vital, vibrant and enthralling show of this type I’ve seen in years.”
“Most of the characters are “types” and they are played with honesty and gusto. Bella DePaola gives Anytime Annie strength and beauty while Jonah Hale’s Billy Lawlor presents ego without masking sincerity (he’s a tenor).”
“The show’s designers have given Saunders the perfect show he deserves.The wonderful scenic design by Erin Kiernan is gorgeously lit by Andrew Gmoser whose colors illuminate and elaborate the brilliant costumes designed by Bethany Marx”
“Saunders has assembled the best team ever at this theatre. This show is truly worth your time and money, folks.”
’42nd Street’ is “everything a summer musical should be” according to Lisa Jarisch for Berkshire on Stage
“the Mac-Haydn Theatre offers up 42nd Street as its 2023 opener, and it is everything a summer musical should be.”
“Scenic Designer Erin Kiernan has admirably captured the essence of the era with her set.”
“Sometimes it’s lovely to be presented with a show that requires nothing more than your undivided attention to the talent on display, and that is exactly what Director John Saunders offers the audience, wrapped up in a glorious, joyous, pitch-perfect, choreographically-amazing package.”
“Perennial M-H favorite Gabe Belyeu is a quintessential Julian Marsh”
“In her Mac-Haydn debut, Rachel Revellese bursts onto the stage like the rising star Peggy Sawyer dreams of becoming. Her voice is as true and strong as her feet are fleet.”
“One of the best parts of watching a Mac-Haydn show is watching the ensemble revel in their part in the production; their passion for “the biz” is always a joy to behold, and in 42nd Street, it is on display to the nth degree.”
“Costumes by Bethany Marx are superb”
“(Saunders) offers up a rich, delicious feast of swirling bodies, flashing feet, and clever staging, using every inch of the now-extended stage space to it best advantage.”
Bill Kellert says ’42nd Street’ “gets it right” in his review for Nippertown
“50+ years into their storied history, The Mac has long since learned how to get it right. 42nd Street is a testament to that.”
“Supported by the wonderful talent of Music Director Eric Shorey, the performers sing and dance with grace and fluidity.”
“Whenever (Stratton) is on the stage, you can not help but watch her draw the audience into her.”
“Belyeu commands the stage with his presence and self-assured attitude. His comic timing is spot on, and his rich voice fills the theatre.”
“An amazingly strong, talented, supportive ensemble rounds out this wonderful cast.”
Jeff Borak tells audiences to ‘dance their troubles away” with ’42nd Street’ in his review for The Berkshire Eagle
“Mandy Modic has choreographed director John Saunders’ production with unbridled theatricality and creativity and their young cast responds accordingly.”
“Belyeu is convincing and stylistically on point as Marsh”
“Jonah Hale is endearing as Billy Lawlor”
“There is no moment on the Mac-Haydn stage when the attractive young members of this cast aren’t giving their all in those dance sequences”