Whatever Wednesday - Bright Star

 Sunday afternoon in Hurst TX - Artisan Theater presented Bright Star, a  Tony nominated show created by Steve Martin and Edie Brickell. 

This was a really lovely local production. The talent was outstanding - vocals, acting, sets, etc.  Wow and kudos. 

This musical takes place in North Carolina in 1923-24 and also 1945-46.  As it goes back and forth in time, we see a story unfold about two young lovers who were not destined to be together.  We also follow a story about a young man destined for writing greatness.  So many paths cross.  Hearts broken. Reconciliation.  Oh man, this tugs the heartstrings. 

So, good story.  Very good songs.  Excellent vocals. 

Fun afternoon.

Support your local theater companies.  These folks are working hard and singing  their hearts out. 

Whatever Wednesday - Oliver!

 Saturday September 16th, my friend, Candice, and I enjoyed a matinee at the Artisan Theater Center. Oliver!  A golden oldie musical featuring our favorite Dicken's urchin, Oliver Twist. 

 "Please, sir. May I have some more?"

I really do need to  get back to re-reading  Charles Dickens. What  a tale. Poor Oliver, an orphan, sold, run away, joins Fagin's gang of thieves, arrested, "saved", taken again, and reunited with the remaining family he had. 

Great songs - Food, Glorious Food, Oliver, Where is Love, You've Got to Pick a Pocket or Two, As Long as He Needs Me, and more. 

Memorable characters - Oliver, Artful Dodger, Mr. Bumble, Fagin, Nancy, Bill Sikes (boo hiss), Mr. Brownlow, plus all of the urchins and street folks. 

The Artisan cast gave a rousing  performance. Solid vocals, acting, and production set. We had a fine time. Support local theater! 

Finally Friday - West Side Story

 I do my part to support local businesses, museums, and any of the arts. Last Thursday, I enjoyed a local theater production of West Side Story at The Artisan in Hurst. 

Originally conceived by Jerome Robbins, music by Leonard Bernstein, and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim, West Side Story is a challenge. I have to say the young cast was up to the task. The Artisan is a theater in the round with a small up close audience. We were treated to decent dancing and acting. As for the singing - Maria's voice soared. Anita's voice was rich. And this skinny young man who played Tony had a pure tone that cut to the heart. So kudos all around. 

It's a Romeo and Juliet theme story set in 1957 New York City. A tale of the "old" immigrants (Poland, Italy, etc) versus the "new" immigrants (Puerto Ricans). Rivalry, hate, and love. 

Classic songs - the Jets, Something's Coming, Maria, America, Tonight, Somewhere

I was glad I ventured out on a Thursday evening and filled my soul with the arts.