www.americanmusicalsproject.org http://www.americanmusicalsproject.org Wed, 15 May 2013 00:00:00 +0000 en hourly 1 The Thrilling Masterpiece Cats Continues To Ignite Passion http://www.americanmusicalsproject.org/2013/05/15/the-thrilling-masterpiece-cats-continues-to-ignite-passion/ http://www.americanmusicalsproject.org/2013/05/15/the-thrilling-masterpiece-cats-continues-to-ignite-passion/#comments Wed, 15 May 2013 00:00:00 +0000 admin http://www.americanmusicalsproject.org/?p=14 When it comes to musical theater, the audience expects spectacle, drama and amazing music, and one production that amply combines all three is Cats. Cats is a musical produced by Andrew Lloyd Webber, and its energy and its fantastic costume and plot have brought people to see it for decades.

One of the reasons why Cats does so well and has in fact become a Broadway staple is due to the sheer strangeness of the production. The actors play cats that live rough on the streets, and the costume reflect the animal’s feral quality. The acrobatics needed in some of the dance numbers is impressive, and on top of that, the sets are quite stunning.

One of the most important things about this musical is the personality of the cats themselves. From the tragic Grizabella to the threatening Macavity, the characters are easy to sympathize with, and they make an impression on all fronts, from their fascinating costumes to their fluid and easy grace.

When it comes to musical theater, there are many amazing shows around, but Cats is one that people keep seeing over and over again. It is definitely a show that makes an impression, and it can spark a life long love for the theater. Related Article : School of Rock is Headed to Broadway, Thanks to Andrew Lloyd Webber

]]> http://www.americanmusicalsproject.org/2013/05/15/the-thrilling-masterpiece-cats-continues-to-ignite-passion/feed/ 0 Get Spirited Away To A Medieval Kingdom With The Merry Widow http://www.americanmusicalsproject.org/2013/03/31/get-spirited-away-to-a-medieval-kingdom-with-the-merry-widow/ http://www.americanmusicalsproject.org/2013/03/31/get-spirited-away-to-a-medieval-kingdom-with-the-merry-widow/#comments Sun, 31 Mar 2013 00:00:00 +0000 admin http://www.americanmusicalsproject.org/?p=13 “The Merry Widow” is a famous operetta written by Leo Stein and Viktor Leon and composed by Franz Lehar, an Austro-Hungarian.

The story tells the tale of a rich widow, Hanna Glawari, and the attempts of her countrymen to keep her riches within the kingdom. The men try to find her the perfect husband, and hilarity, romance and trouble ensue.

Other roles in the operetta include Count Danilo Danilovitsch, Hanna’s former lover, Baron mirko Zeta and his wife, Valencienne, Hanna’s admirer Camille and a host of other dignitaries and diplomats.

“The Merry Widow” was adapted into English by Adrian Ross and Basil Hood. The operetta was a hit from the moment it premiered in London in June 1907. It was produced over 770 times in London and opened on Broadway later that year. The run was very successful, and the operetta soon became famous throughout the world. It is still frequently performed in English.

The tale has also been told through ballet and film. A 1952 Technicolor version started Gernando Lamas and Lana Turner, a 1934 version featured Jeanette MacDonald and Maurice Chevalier under the direction of Ernst Lubitsch, and a silent version was made in 1925 that starred Mae Murray as Hanna and John Gilbert as Danilo.

]]> http://www.americanmusicalsproject.org/2013/03/31/get-spirited-away-to-a-medieval-kingdom-with-the-merry-widow/feed/ 0 The Music of the Music Man http://www.americanmusicalsproject.org/2012/07/31/the-music-of-the-music-man/ http://www.americanmusicalsproject.org/2012/07/31/the-music-of-the-music-man/#comments Tue, 31 Jul 2012 00:00:00 +0000 admin http://www.americanmusicalsproject.org/?p=12 Often imitated, but never surpassed, the story of the Music Man is the classic tale of a man trying to be something that he is not and, ultimately, discovering that who he really is can be just as rewarding as the myth he shrouds himself in. I’m talking about the classic original that you can probably find on AMC or any of those classic movie channels that you can get through http://www.rasertech.com/ or the like. While good things were certainly said about the various remakes and versions of this American musical classic, there is just no substitute for the original.

Taking place in the countryside of Iowa, music man Harold Hill is a con man who sets out to swindle the local townsfolk by getting them to invest in a school marching band. What they don’t realize is that Harold Hill has no intention of fulfilling their orders for uniforms and instruments and plans to skip town once he has enough money. Along the way, he dodges the various town council members who try to investigate him and ultimately manages to fool everyone except the lovely librarian, which kicks into all sorts of musical nonsense. If you have not seen the Music Man then you are missing out on a true American classic.

]]> http://www.americanmusicalsproject.org/2012/07/31/the-music-of-the-music-man/feed/ 0 The Wizard Of Oz: Classic, Timeless Fairy Tale http://www.americanmusicalsproject.org/2012/05/26/the-wizard-of-oz-classic-timeless-fairy-tale/ http://www.americanmusicalsproject.org/2012/05/26/the-wizard-of-oz-classic-timeless-fairy-tale/#comments Sat, 26 May 2012 00:00:00 +0000 admin http://www.americanmusicalsproject.org/?p=11 The Wizard of Oz was made in 1939 and became an instant classic. The film was shot in sepia, black and white and in Technicolor. The veteran actors are ideal in their supporting roles, and Judy Garland is exceptional in the starring role.

The movie appeals to both children and adults. It involves various elements such as magic, witches, wizards, munchkins, a cute dog, fantasy, terror, a cyclone and a yellow brick road, which all blend together to make an engaging and timeless movie. It is universally appealing and will be for the end of time.

It was nominated for six Academy Awards and is still considered to be one of the most elaborate and outstanding productions in the history of Hollywood filmmaking. In addition, it was one of the first movies to be registered in the National Film Registry.

There are many memorable moments in this film such as the dazzling song and dance number by Ray Bolger and the musical numbers by Bert Lahr and Jack Haley. Judy Garland’s performance of the timeless song, “Somewhere over the Rainbow,” is believed to be the most memorable moment in the film. The song won an Oscar and became Garland’s signature song.

Over the years, there have been remakes of this classic film. To this day, the original is still the best version.

]]> http://www.americanmusicalsproject.org/2012/05/26/the-wizard-of-oz-classic-timeless-fairy-tale/feed/ 0 The Sound Of Music Is A Nostalgic Breathe Of Fresh Air http://www.americanmusicalsproject.org/2012/05/23/the-sound-of-music-is-a-nostalgic-breathe-of-fresh-air/ http://www.americanmusicalsproject.org/2012/05/23/the-sound-of-music-is-a-nostalgic-breathe-of-fresh-air/#comments Wed, 23 May 2012 00:00:00 +0000 admin http://www.americanmusicalsproject.org/?p=10 The Sound of Music is a popular musical film that debuted in 1965. The film is based off of the Broadway hit of the same name and stars Julie Andrews as the lead. The film garnered much media attention and in 2001 the musical was named an important piece of entertainment and was placed into the National Film Registry. The Sound of Music was and still is a breathe of fresh air for the musical genre. It features a free spirited woman, Maria, who is studying to be a nun and has a penchant for singing her heart out.Want more? Click here{{/tag}

She is sent to be a governess for Georg Van Trapp, an Austrian navy captain. Maria gets along with Von Trapp’s seven children and even comforts them during a storm, singing them songs. The film shows the light hearted playfulness of the human heart and has a meaningful story showing the lighter side of things. Although most musicals are meant to be fun for the whole family, The Sound of Music is different in that it is relatable to all different types of people from different walks of life. There is no question that this musical film should be honored as one of the most innovative musicals of all time.

]]> http://www.americanmusicalsproject.org/2012/05/23/the-sound-of-music-is-a-nostalgic-breathe-of-fresh-air/feed/ 0 Top Hat Showcases The Classy Prowess Of Fred Astaire And Ginger Rogers http://www.americanmusicalsproject.org/2012/05/22/top-hat-showcases-the-classy-prowess-of-fred-astaire-and-ginger-rogers/ http://www.americanmusicalsproject.org/2012/05/22/top-hat-showcases-the-classy-prowess-of-fred-astaire-and-ginger-rogers/#comments Tue, 22 May 2012 00:00:00 +0000 admin http://www.americanmusicalsproject.org/?p=9 Song and dance seems to be in a renaissance; just look at the wild popularity of “Glee” and “Dancing with the Stars.” So where do they get their inspiration? They look to the original silver screen musical stars, who were inspired by and came directly out of Vaudeville.

Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers were both petite and had delicate, graceful, fluid movements. Whether in a foxtrot or tap dance they were the power couple on the dance floor. Their romantic chemistry and sense of humor continued to light up the screen in film after film; the couple starred together in 10 movies total.

However their biggest joint success was the 1935 film, “Top Hat,” and remains a great introduction to Fred and Ginger. It is a zany comedy co-staring Edward Everett Horton. A conventional plot with a classic mix-up of identity, can easily be over-looked, as the film introduces two amazingly, classic Irving Berlin songs, “Dancing Cheek to Cheek” and “Top Hat, White Tie and Tails.” Both stars dance and sing throughout film and often both at the same time. Lovable actors, rich costuming and first-class acting makes the film magical, from beginning to end, and irresistible to share with family and friends.

]]> http://www.americanmusicalsproject.org/2012/05/22/top-hat-showcases-the-classy-prowess-of-fred-astaire-and-ginger-rogers/feed/ 0 Liza Minnelli Lights Up The Stage In Cabaret http://www.americanmusicalsproject.org/2012/05/19/liza-minnelli-lights-up-the-stage-in-cabaret/ http://www.americanmusicalsproject.org/2012/05/19/liza-minnelli-lights-up-the-stage-in-cabaret/#comments Sat, 19 May 2012 00:00:00 +0000 admin http://www.americanmusicalsproject.org/?p=8 Cabaret the film musical could have been created especially for Liza Minnelli. Sally Bowles’ character allowed Liza to portray so much of her personal style and talent. Growing up as the daughter of two talented parents, Judy Garland and Vincente Minnelli, one can imagine Liza playing as a night club singer on a home made stage. Her remarkable singing, dancing and acting ability won her an Oscar for Best Actress in 1973.

Liza’s rendition of the title song “Cabaret” was stunning; however my favorite song that she performed was “Maybe This Time”. The innocence and passion of her young character was strengthened by her belief that things would be better, not only in her career and love life but with her father as well.Get more information here. http://www.wnyc.org/npr_articles/2012/may/11/liza-minnelli-on-song-travels/ That innocence changed quickly as Sally Bowles faced the reality of her life. Singing with Joel Grey in the tune “Money Song”, the viewer can see the acceptance of the character’s existence and what she will need to do for her own survival in the changing German society.

I saw the movie six times in the first two months after it was released. It was destined to become a classic in the world of movie musicals.

]]> http://www.americanmusicalsproject.org/2012/05/19/liza-minnelli-lights-up-the-stage-in-cabaret/feed/ 0 Gene Kelly Shines In Singin’ In The Rain http://www.americanmusicalsproject.org/2012/05/18/gene-kelly-shines-in-singin-in-the-rain/ http://www.americanmusicalsproject.org/2012/05/18/gene-kelly-shines-in-singin-in-the-rain/#comments Fri, 18 May 2012 00:00:00 +0000 admin http://www.americanmusicalsproject.org/?p=7 Gene Kelley is “Singin’ In The Rain,” in this beloved classic musical. “Singin’ In The Rain” tells the story of one movie studio’s transition to talking films.

The Story

Don Lockwood (Gene Kelley) is a leading silent film star. While filming his latest movie, a rival studio releases the first talking picture and Don’s studio decides to convert his film into a talkie. However, the film’s lead actress, Lina Lamont (Jean Hagen), has a grating voice and cannot legally be replaced. Don and his producers decide to dub over Lina using Kelley Selden (Debbie Reynolds), an aspiring actress. The story is believable and enjoyable, and the actors create memorable characters.

The Music

“Singin’ In The Rain” features many classic songs. From the infectiously hopeful title track to the vocal gymnastics of “Moses Supposes,” the music is consistently delightful.

The Dancing

“Singin’ In The Rain” showcases it’s actors fancy footwork frequently. This film is often mentioned in “best movie dance sequences” lists, and one viewing will show you why. 

“Singin’ In The Rain” is one of the greatest musicals of all time. If you haven’t seen it yet you owe it to yourself to find and watch this classic musical.

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