April Strelinger News

Stephen Sondheim (music and lyrics) and James Lapine's (book) INTO THE WOODS begins tonight, July 21, at the Muny, playing through July 27 in Forest Park. The production is directed by Gary Griffin, choreographed by Chris Bailey and music directed by Brad Haak.

BroadwayWorld has just confirmed that Elena Shaddow will star as 'Cinderella' in Stephen Sondheim (music and lyrics) and James Lapine's (book) Into The Woods the Muny, playing July 21-27. The production will be directed by Gary Griffin, choreographed by Chris Bailey and music directed by Brad Haak.

The feature length animated film, THE ARISTOCATS (1970), was the last project Walt Disney approved before his death in 1966. My son and I watched it several years ago on DVD, when he was just a little tyke. And then, in 2010 we attended Stages St. Louis' wonderful production of the show. Five years later I was little hesitant to bring him to their latest presentation, just because he's that much older, but I think he actually enjoyed it more the second time around. He's now at an age where he can really appreciate the work that goes into bringing these shows to the stage. He loved the performances and music, and so did I. Stages has put together an excellent show that, obviously, has appeal for kids of all ages (and adults as well), and it's currently gracing the stage of The Westport Playhouse. I think the intimacy of the venue acts to enhance the experience, bringing the audience that much closer to the action.

The Muny announced today the cast for its production of Oklahoma! (August 10 -16) directed by Rob Ruggiero, choreographed by Susan Stroman and music directed by Kevin Stites. Ginger Thatcher will restage Ms. Stroman's choreography.

STAGES St. Louis takes you on a feline adventure in Disney's The Aristocats today, June 3, through June 28 at the Playhouse at Westport Plaza in Maryland Heights.

STAGES St. Louis takes you on a feline adventure in Disney's The Aristocats this June 3-28 at the Playhouse at Westport Plaza in Maryland Heights. With an unforgettable mix of colorful characters, amusing antics, and swingin' music, this modern version of the familiar Disney classic is just purrrrrr-fect for the entire family.

The Muny announced today its complete cast for Stephen Sondheim (music and lyrics) and James Lapine's (book) Into The Woods, playing July 21-27. The production will be directed by Gary Griffin, choreographed by Chris Bailey and music directed by Brad Haak.

STAGES St. Louis has announced casting for its exhilarating 29th season: Smokey Joe's Cafe, Anything Goes, and The Full Monty. This season's exceptional talent voyages through songs and stories of diverse relationships, the bonds of friendship, and strength found in community. STAGES also announces the cast for its Theatre for Young Audiences production, the purrrrr-fect family classic, Disney's The Aristocats. All season and single tickets are on sale now.

If you're looking for thoughtful entertainment that's suitable for children and adults then you should definitely check out the COCA Theatre Company's current production of THE LITTLE PRINCE based on the classic book by Antoine de Saint Exupery (music by Rick Cummins with book and lyrics by John Scoullar). Even if you've never read the story, you'll still be captivated by the whimsical, yet decidedly philosophical, journey of a little boy who travels the stars seeking answers while delivering certain truths. An excellent cast combines professional and non-professional actors who carry this material well. Best of all, there are stunning visual elements and musical numbers that act to enhance the overall experience.

The Muny's seventh and final show of its 96th season, HELLO, DOLLY!, directed by Rob Ruggiero, choreographed by Ralph Perkins, with music direction by James Moore, ran through August 17, 2014. Below, check out a fun behind-the-scenes remix from the company, featuring Beth Leavel, John O'Hurley, Rob McClure, Mamie Parris, Jay Armstrong Johnson, Eloise Kropp and more!

The MUNY presents the seventh and final show of its 96th season, Hello, Dolly!, directed by Rob Ruggiero, choreographed by Ralph Perkins, with music direction byJames Moore. The show runs through August 17, 2014. Check out a look at the opening night celebration below!

The Muny presents the seventh and final show of its 96th season, Hello, Dolly!, directed by Rob Ruggiero, choreographed by Ralph Perkins, with music direction byJames Moore. The show runs through August 17, 2014. Check out a first look below!

The Muny presents the seventh and final show of its 96th season, Hello, Dolly!, directed by Rob Ruggiero, choreographed by Ralph Perkins, with music direction byJames Moore. The show opens tonight, August 11, and runs through August 17, 2014.

The Muny presents the seventh and final show of its 96th season, Hello, Dolly!, directed by Rob Ruggiero, choreographed by Ralph Perkins, with music direction by James Moore. The show opens tonight, August 11, and runs through August 17, 2014. Below, meet returning star Rob McClure, who will play Cornelius Hackl!

The Muny presents the seventh and final show of its 96th season, Hello, Dolly!, directed by Rob Ruggiero, choreographed by Ralph Perkins, with music direction by James Moore. The show opens tonight, August 11, and runs through August 17, 2014.

The Muny continues its 96th season with SEUSSICAL, directed and choreographed by Dan Knechtges, with music direction by Valerie Gebert.

Along with their regular productions each season, Stages St. Louis always presents a show that's part of their Theatre for Young Audiences series. Since I've been reviewing theatre in St. Louis I've made an effort to attend one of these performances (with my son along for the experience) because they're always very well done, and it's important to me that children are exposed to the arts. This year's effort is Disney's SLEEPING BEAUTY, and it continues an excellent tradition of providing families with a lively and fun show that's a genuine treat.

STAGES St. Louis brings to life another beloved Princess in Disney's Sleeping Beauty (today, June 18 - June 29), performed at the Skip Viragh Center for the Arts at Chaminade College Preparatory School.Disney's classic fairy tale is retold on stage in a magical production full of breathtaking dance and the glorious music of Tchaikovsky, including the beautiful 'Once Upon a Dream.' With charming characters including regal royalty, slimy goons, as well as magical fairies and animal friends, Disney's Sleeping Beauty is a treasured treat guaranteed to enchant audiences!

STAGES St. Louis brings to life another beloved Princess in Disney's Sleeping Beauty (June 18 - June 29), performed at the Skip Viragh Center for the Arts at Chaminade College Preparatory School.Disney's classic fairy tale is retold on stage in a magical production full of breathtaking dance and the glorious music of Tchaikovsky, including the beautiful 'Once Upon a Dream.' With charming characters including regal royalty, slimy goons, as well as magical fairies and animal friends, Disney's Sleeping Beauty is a treasured treat guaranteed to enchant audiences!

The Muny announced principal casting for the seventh and final show of its 96th season, Hello, Dolly!, directed by Rob Ruggiero, choreographed by Ralph Perkins, with music direction by Brad Haak. Hello, Dolly! is sponsored by Ameren.