There is probably no other artist in the history of musical theatre who can look out on his book of music and witness as many multi-generational fans singing its tunes. And with all due respect to another Stephen (Sondheim, my personal favorite), the music of this particular Stephen (Schwartz) has bridged many worlds in his lifetime and Circle Theatre of Grand Rapids will present a two-day showcase to his legacy in song on stage at the Aquinas College Performing Arts Center.
This new, staged repertoire of songs, Circle Celebrates: The Music of Stephen Schwartz, under the musical direction of Scott Patrick Bell with lighting designer Catherine Marlett Dreher and sound designer Sam Johnson, will dive in to a songbook rich with classic numbers from Children of Eden, Godspell, Pippin, and Working and from movies like Enchanted and The Prince of Egypt.
And how could I forget the biggest one that is celebrating 10 years on Broadway in 2014 -- Wicked. This song is the reason some may either run from the karaoke room or head for the rafters on a broom when they hear someone on stage start the opening lines from Defying Gravity's first shout: "I hope you're happy, I hope you're happy too."
Nosh a bit before the show on wonderful hors d'oeuvres and cocktails compliments of West Michigan Caterer before settling in your seat to be entertained by vocalists Scott Patrick Bell, Maddie Blyvis, Kyle Burton Black, Jenny Fischer, Stephen Grey, Charles Hutchins, Molly Jones, Kyle Jurassic, RuthAnn Molenaar, Jeremiah Postma and Noddea Skidmore.
Admission: $35 general public/ $30 season ticket holders / $30 for groups of 10 or more.
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