The Most Incredible Thing

Pleasant Valley Productions in collaboration with the Mac-Haydn Theatre are proud to present a developmental production of David Maglione’s newest musical work, The Most Incredible Thing on May 22 at 1pm and 4pm at the OSPAC in West Orange, New Jersey.

Tickets are free of charge. Donations to offset the cost of this production are greatly appreciated and can be made at any time during your visit at the theater. Parking is available across the street from the main gate. The gates open 45 minutes prior to showtime.

The piece is based on the Hans Christian Anderson short story of the same name. While the show is based on a work in the public domain, Maglione has set the adaptation in his original “Kingdom of Merideh,” a universe that serves as the setting for many of his children’s theater stories, including “Martin and Meelo,” last seen as part of the Mac-Haydn’s 2019 Children’s Theatre season. The Most Incredible Thing marks the second of what has been conceived as a five-part series.

Mac-Haydn Producing Artistic Director John Saunders directs and is joined by Mac-Haydn musical director Bruce De La Cruz (2019’s “Curtains”) and choreographer Amy Calzone.

The cast features Mac-Haydn alumni Kelly Gabrielle Murphy (Mamma Mia! and Sweeney Todd), Julie Galorenzo (Ragtime), Angel Harrison (2019 company), and Joe Christianson (2019 band). Rounding out the cast are David Rolando, Chris Frazier, Joseph Gottfried, Michael Gioia, Tyler Pearson, Susan Ramirez, Lawrence Dandridge, Lyle Dungee, Joelle Zazz, Danielle Pennisi, and Marcus McPherson.

Bruce De La Cruz, who is also responsible for original orchestrations, will be accompanied by a string trio: Violin played by Tristan Aniceto, Mac-Haydn alumna Lydia Paulos on Cello, and Magda Kress Double Bass.

The show will feature an original clock design by Andrew Gmoser, sound design by Brad Zuckerman, and costuming by Emily Spateholts and the Mac-Haydn Theatre. The show is stage managed by Emily Neimeyer.

Strict COVID-19 Protocol is in place to ensure safety at all events. Masks and physical distancing will be required.

Visit www.pleasantvalleyproductions.org to learn more.

Mac-Haydn Encore Performances
Mac-Haydn Alums Take Us Down Memory Lane

As we work to determine what our 2020 Season will look like at the Mac-Haydn, we wanted to take a trip down memory lane with some of our favorite artists by asking them to perform, from the safety of their self isolation, songs which they have brought to our stage in the past. We hope you will enjoy a little trip down memory lane with us during this uncertain time.


Monday, April 6th

Elizabeth Ward land – “As If We Never Said Goodbye” from Sunset Boulevard.

Who could forget Elizabeth Ward Land’s tour de force as the iconic Norma Desmond in 2019’s Sunset Boulevard? It was a triumphant show in many respects but nothing compared to her remarkable performance.

Just in case you did forget it, she has recreated one of the most famous moments from the show as only Liz could.

See Other Materials From The Production


Saturday, April 4th

Emily Kron – “By The Sea” from Sweeney Todd.

In 2017 we presented an inspired production of Stephen Sondheim’s masterpiece Sweeney Todd.

Emily Kron was spellbinding and hilarious in the pivotal role of the grotesque and vicious Mrs. Lovett. Her portrayal gave us such empathy for this corrupted soul that we could not help but love her.

Here she gives us a glimpse of the amazing detail that she incorporated into that performance.

In this difficult time, sometimes you just need to have a good laugh. Here it is.


Friday, April 3rd

Kelly Gabrielle Murphy and David Maglione – “Wonderful Thought” from Wendy’s Shadow.

2018 saw the world premiere of this magical musical by our music supervisor David Maglione. A story of fear, hope and discovery, it moved audiences of all ages and set a new standard in our Children’s Theatre productions. Kelly was delightful in the title role and those who saw this performance will never forget it.

We see in this amazing performance from their family’s home just how joyous the act of making music together is.

Think wonderful thoughts everyone. And please stay safe.

See Other Materials From The Production


Wednesday, April 1st

Rachel Rhodes-Devey – “It Only Takes A Moment” from Hello Dolly.

In 2017 Rachel created the perfect Irene Molloy in our remarkable production of Hello Dolly.

Words cannot describe her beautiful artistry in this performance from her living room, reminding us how many people we wish we could hug today.

Stay safe and strong everyone. These magical moments of human connection will return.


Tuesday, March 31st

George Dvorsky – “NYC” from Annie.

George gave a Berkshire Award winning performance as Daddy Warbucks in our 2018 production of Annie.

As New York City goes through this unprecedented time, George Reminds us of why we love this incredible place. Let’s hope we can enjoy all its wonders, and eccentricities again in the coming months.

Stay safe New York. We love you and all the amazing people who call you home.

During this time of isolation, it becomes very clear to us all just how important the sentiments of this song are.

See Other Materials From The Production


Monday, March 30th

Lauren Palmeri – “People” from Funny Girl.

Lauren performed Fanny Bryce with us in 2018 as part of our 50th Anniversary season to rave reviews from audiences and critics alike. J. Peter Bergman of The Berkshire Edge said of Lauren. “She embraces the uniqueness of the Fanny Brice persona… she is as good as it gets!”. We think you get a marvelous impression of that in this heartfelt rendition of the song, performed from her bedroom.

During this time of isolation, it becomes very clear to us all just how important the sentiments of this song are.

See Other Materials From The Production


Mac-Haydn Announces Children’s Theatre 2020
Children’s Theatre Season Announced

We are extremely excited to announce our 2020 Children’s Theatre season in which we take a new look at some legendary fairytales.

For the third time in as many years, Music Supervisor David Maglione has authored a remarkable take on the famous Hans Christian Anderson tale The Most Incredible Thing. The creator of Wendy’s Shadow and Martin and Meelo, Maglione’s new interpretation emphasises the core theme of that mystical search for the artistic spirit dormant inside each of us. Maglione’s enchanting music solidifies a remarkable narrative that will resonate with children and adults of all ages, making this one of the highlights of the summer musical season.

Our second show of 2020 also takes a fresh look at a timeless classic. A clever retelling of the Snow White legend, Snow White and The Prince is a romantic and funny adventure with all your beloved characters, plus a few more that we know you will grow to love.

Get Your Tickets Today for the whole family to guarantee the best seats in the house.

All Tickets are $14.00

Tickets and Show Information

David Thatcher Maglione

David Thatcher Maglione gratefully returns to the Mac for a 5th season! Dave composes music and songs for theater, film, TV, orchestra, and other mixed media, while engaging the emotive influence of Music, Nature, Story, and Ancestry. Music written by Dave has been heard at venues in NYC such as 54 Below, The Laurie Beechman, and The Duplex. Most recently, Maglione was in residence in England at Brisons Veor, Cape Cornwall, and NDT Broadgate, developing a musical theater project entitled The Only Way Out. David’s work has been developed at multiple stages including living room shares, table workshops, residencies, readings, concerts, commissions, and productions. Proud member of The Dramatists Guild and ASCAP. David-maglione.me

Creative Roles this Season

Music Supervisor
Music Director - A Chorus Line
Assistant Music Director - Urinetown