VOCALIST JUNIOR OPENS WITH YOUTHFUL EXUBERANCE AND PLENTY TO LOVE AT MEDIA THEATRE

“Vocalist Junior” at The Media Theatre had its first week of competition Sunday night July 12 at 7pm. With a bit of anxiety from the young contestants (ages 7-13) which was tempered by an extremely appreciative crowd, the show went off without a hitch.

Yeah, I'm singing! It's Josh Atkinson, 10, of Drexel Hill with "Who I'd Be"

Cecilia Bailey, 10, West Chester, sings "Let Go Fly A Kite"

Morgan Bitzberger, 13, Thornton with "Bright"

Singing in alphabetical order meant that one lucky person had the opportunity to go first. Josh Atkinson, 10, of Drexel Hill, handled the position well as he started the summer event off with a nicely done performance of “Who I’d Be” from the Broadway musical Shrek.

Of course, this also meant that one person—lucky or not, depending on how you look at it—had to wait for 30 other performers to sing before she got her chance to close the night. Violet Wiley, 9, of Woodlyn, looking like she was dressed for MTV in a leather jacket and boots, had terrific focus as she sang the Blondie hit “Dreaming” as a finale. Her father, Sean, accompanied her on ukulele. Yes, ukulele!

All other performers were accompanied by Ben Kapilow, who gamely handled playing everything from pop songs to Broadway songs to childhood favorites. Each week, the contestants have one rehearsal with Mr. Kapilow on Saturday morning at 8am prior to the Sunday evening performance/ competition.

Ava Briglia, 8, of Media chats with Jesse Cline after singing "I Wish"

There were highlights during week one. Ava Briglia absolutely held the audience in the palm of her hand while supremely belting out “I Wish”. From Media, she’s only 8 years old and is one of the youngest in the contest. Veronica Garrubbo, 12, of Berwyn certainly was “Extraordinary” as she performed her song, and West Chester’s JD Triolo, 12, did a memorable “Go The Distance”.

That’s not to say others were not excellent, on pitch, focused, or terrific in their own way because every one of the 31 singers certainly used their personality, stage presence, youthful exuberance, and talent to entertain the crowd and the judges. All contestants were certainly deserving of the appreciative applause. And, as we know from years past, there is no way of knowing which contestant will leap out from the group to eventually become the winner. It's a one-week-at-a-time event, with the first three weeks seeing all 31 singers on stage prior to eliminations as all judges scores and public votes are accumulated until after week three.

Special Guest Judge Kelly Briggs, Broadway actor and performer who appeared alongside Andrea McArdle in "Hello Dolly" recently and returns to Media's stage this fall in "Gypsy" and "Billy Elliot: The Musical"

Shannon Clark, 12, Havertown, prepares to sing "Our Song"

12 year old Joseph Colasante of Brookhaven with "Giants In The Sky"

Ava Courtney, 10, Garnett Valley, does "Trust In Me"

Larissa Culbertson. The large screen allows the audience to know each contestant's age and township

Jamie Day, 12, Media with "I'm Not That Girl"

Jamie's twin Paige Day sings "Could Have Danced All Night"

Zachary Divito, 9, of Aston talks with Jesse Cline after his song

The one constant judge is Jesse Cline, Artistic Director for The Media Theatre.  Sitting at a table on stage left throughout the show, Cline does a little chat with each of the young ones in “Junior” just as he does in the Wednesday night “Vocalist”. It’s these unrehearsed and completely improvised chats that provide extra entertainment value for the audience. When Cline asked Phoenixville’s 11 year old Skylar Kelly what her song “The Climb” meant, she mentioned “It’s about trying hard to get something and then getting it.” He asked her what it was she was trying for and she said, without a moment’s pause, “To win this!”

It was that type of spirit which represented the entire evening. All of the contestants brought the best they had to offer to the stage, which is really what “The Climb” is all about. With a bit of nerves, a bit of spunk, lots of wonderful voices and plenty of encouragement, 2015’s “Vocalist Junior” is sure to be a major ingredient in a memorable summer for them, for their families, and for the audience.

Marsha Peltz emceed. The "Vocalist Junior" is sponsored by Iron Workers Bank.

Evelyn Doran, 11, Glenolden, with "Popular"

Gabrielle Dove, 8, Sharon Hill sings "A Beautiful Day"

Bridget Duffy, 13, Thornton prepares to sing "Lost Stars"

Cassidy Else, 10, Drexel Hill closes Act One with "My Favorite Things"

Act Two opens with Molly Evanko, 12, of West Chester,  performing "Good Morning" for the crowd of 150, not including those who purchased the event on live stream service

Elaina Fitzgerald, 12, Wallingford, is "Feelin' Good"

Veronica Garrubbo, 12, Berwyn, with "Extraordinary"

"Something's Coming" says Lars Halldin, 13, Norristown

Ava Kelly, 11, Phoenixville sings "Roar". Her dress was top costume of the night!

Ava's twin, Skylar, sings "The Climb"

He really is having fun with "Bare Necessities"! It's Sean Lock, 11, from Malvern

Elizabeth Mercier, 12, of Brookhaven with "For Good"

I want to be "Part of Your World" sings Fiona Moser, 12, Havertown

"People Help The People" with Divya Samant, 13, Malvern

Sarah Shoumer, 10, Wayne with "Not Pretty Enough" but looking great!

Christina Smith, 12, of Brookhaven does "Try"

JD Triolo, 12, West Chester "Go The Distance"

"When I Grow Up" says Allie Vaccaro, 10, of Rose Valley

"I Know Things Now" says 8 year old Brynn Washbourne of Coatesville

Final contestant --Whew!--Violet Wiley does Blondie's "Dreaming". She's 9 from Woodlyn

To get tickets to “Vocalist Junior” which continues every Sunday night through August 9, call The Media Theatre at 610-891-0100 or visit mediatheatre.org

MEDIA THEATRE'S 'VOCALIST' WEDNESDAY NIGHT CONTEST HAS BEST TALENT EVER

So this blog is, at times, a base spot for press and marketing materials for The Media Theatre.

At other times, such as with this writing, it gives me--Roger Ricker--the opportunity on a rare occasion to speak about what I am directly involved in and have noticed.

As the rehearsal manager for "The Vocalist" 2015 competition, what I can tell you plainly is this: The talent this year within the Wednesday night competition's 14-24 age group is, as a whole, the best it has ever been. I speak from the heart, as I am not a judge for the contest nor an instructor for any of those involved. Merely an observer from a Stage Management position. 

Without even analyzing my comment to the singers after rehearsal this evening, I actually thanked them all for entertaining me. Yes, I did. They were there to rehearse on stage with the accompanist (Ben Kapilow) and to receive notes from myself which might boost their confidence or pointers which might assist them during the show such as 'to stand in the light'.

However, not many pointers had to be given. This group of teenagers and young adults was so spot-on and performed with such ease it was almost as if we were watching a show that had been rehearsed for several weeks already! 

And the diversity of the song choices...the best ever! Yes, there are Broadway songs both recognizable and not-so-well known as well as classic pop songs. BUT the important issue of note is that the various genres within those categories is ample, with barely one song sounding like the one before it. 

Plus, the singers this year have such unique personalities which shines through in their talent it's as if they were pre-packaged singers appearing on a nationally televised 'reality' singing show. These young vocalists ARE THAT GOOD.

You do not want to miss this Wednesday night's first 2015 "Vocalist" show, which is in and of itself a contest. Yes, one of these young people will be announced as the 'winner' eventually and will win $1500. But let me tell you....without seeming like a cliche...they are ALL WINNERS! 

The audience, too, will win with this group. Your heart will be taken by these aspiring singers which bring natural talent to The Media Theatre stage this summer. You'll want to hear more. I did. And, because I manage each rehearsal all summer long, I'll have the privilege of doing so.

GET YOUR TICKETS NOW! This is promising to be a fantastic show! It's Wednesday nights July 9 through August 5 at 7pm. Tickets are $12-15
GET TICKETS HERE

MEDIA THEATRE'S NEW SCHOOL EDUCATION PROGRAM HAS EXCITING NEW CHANGES FOR 2015-16

The Media Theatre's New School, a conservatory style music theatre education program, has exciting new changes for 2015-16 Season.

Jesse Cline, the theatre's Artistic Director, has overseen the New School for the past five years and will continue to do so as changes are implemented. Being a part of the New School is by invitation or audition only.

A major change is the elimination of choreography and dance in the New School curriculum, with a major focus on Acting and Voice. Those who wish to study dance still have the opportunity through the theatre's Tap and Ballet classes.

Among the changes, students will be divided strictly into two age groups. Ages 7-11 will meet on Mondays from 4:30pm to 6:30pm starting September 21 and will have classes in Acting and Voice. Ages 12-18 will meet on Thursdays during the same hours and will become the New School Performance Ensemble, which will eventually be a traveling performance group. The Ensemble will rehearse and perform one act plays and musicals, as well as create cabaret performances that are easily presented at area schools and community events.

Check out the attached brochure for information!

IRON WORKERS BANK SPONSORS THE MEDIA THEATRE'S 2015 'VOCALIST' CONTESTS

Iron Workers Bank sponsors The Media Theatre's "Vocalist" and “Vocalist Junior” contests each July and August, working with the professional music theatre company to highlight aspiring young singers. 

The annual event is produced by Media Music Theatre Company, the professional music theatre organization housed at The Media Theatre. Jesse Cline, the Artistic Director for the Company, created the competition a decade ago when it was referred to as “Delco Idol”. The title was changed three years ago to better represent what the theatre’s mission highlights, which is music theatre.

“The Vocalist” contests are also pure entertainment for audiences. Both those who know singers on the stage and those who are not connected to the performers or contestants in any way walk away humming the selection of Broadway and pop classics each vocalist puts their heart into. In this way, it’s very similar to the nationally televised singing competitions.

Iron Workers Bank President John Whitig with The Media Theatre's Kim Bosshardt (Patron Services Manager and Development Associate)
with Artistic Director Jesse Cline

John Whitig, the President of Iron Workers Bank, said, “We look forward to being involved with this contest each summer. I personally love standing on the stage and assisting with the presentation to the top contestants each year, although they are all winners in my book.”

The participants were culled from auditions held in May at the theatre’s new School and Dance Studio on State Street.

"The Vocalist" begins Wednesday night July 8 at 7pm, continuing for five weeks until a winner is announced live onstage. The "Junior" version of the "Vocalist" starts up Sunday night July 12. FOX-TV’s Sue Serio will open and close the Wednesday night contest with her husband Bill Vargus filling in the remaining nights. Marsha Peltz, the theatre’s Director of Development, will emcee the Sunday night “Junior” event.

The public may purchase tickets or vote online for their favorite contestant at mediatheatre.org. Call 610-891-0100 for information.

Iron Workers Bank has locations in Aston, Chadds Ford, and Media. Visit www.iwsb.com to learn more. 

MEDIA THEATRE SUBSCRIBER PARTY HIGHLIGHTS TALENT, PATRONS, AND MORE

On Sunday June 14 at 3pm Media Theatre patrons and supporters mingled with the staff and talent from its stage. It was Media Music Theatre Company's 2015 Subscriber Party, which presented a re-cap of the past season and added a look toward the future with the upcoming 2015-16 Broadway Series season. The non-profit Company produces all Broadway Series, Children's Series, and Educational Programs at The Media Theatre.

Subscriber and Sponsor Gwendolyn Haines with Artistic Director Jesse Cline

Director of Development Marsha Peltz

Marsha Peltz, the company's Director of Development, presented a moving and memorable video presentation to start the afternoon's event. The video, created by her son Brandon, created the celebratory tone of the mini-gala. The screen was bright with mention of The Media Theatre's Broadway World wins and scenes from the past season's shows and youth programs. 

Artistic Director Jesse Cline spoke to the appreciation the theatre has for its patrons and supporters, also mentioning the new School and Dance Studio two blocks away from the theatre. "We cannot do this without you," he said. "You are what makes us successful and we are so very thankful."

Brandon Rannalli performs "Electricity" with resident music director Chris Ertelt

Board member Kate Jaffe 

Board Chair Perry Ecksel speaks to the invited guests

Board member Ree Dunphy

The Leones of West Chester

Brian Henry sings "Stars"

Featured singer Julia Seeley chats prior to her performance

Media Business Authority's Zubair Khan with assistant Jillian

Lauren Cupples performs from "Dogfight"

Actress Anna Rosenthal with her father Sam Rosenthal, a Board member. His wife Stacey Barish says hello to another Board member, K. Whitney Rogers

The invited guests were given a tour to see what most audiences never see--the dressing rooms, backstage area, and to actually walk up onto the enlarged stage's playing area. The tour was given by the theatre's Executive Director Patrick Ward and Development Associate Kim Bosshardt. Robert Towarnicki, Technical Director, provided insight as to the lighting and sound.

A terrifically talented group of five individual vocalists provided exquisite entertainment. Brandon Rannalli, of Media, performed a solid rendition of "Electricity" from the upcoming Billy Elliot: The Musical. The show is based on the hit film about the boy who has dreams of becoming a ballet dancer amidst a tumultuous time in a mining town. The Elton John score captures the innocence of the young Billy Elliot as well as the poignant relationship between he and his father, who wants him to be a boxer. It will be directed by Geoffrey Goldberg.

12 year old JD Triolo sings

Owen Mannion, a young actor in "The Who's Tommy" and also box office staff member

Lauren Cupples, who is frequently seen on The Media Theatre stage, performed a song from Dogfight which is another new musical coming up in the 2015-16 Broadway Series. The musical is all about three marines in the '60's who, on the eve of their deployment, try to find the 'homeliest' young lady to fall in love with one of them, placing bets on who will win. The tradition among the marines backfires when one young lady turns the tides. Artistic Director Jesse Cline directs the production.

Other shows coming up in 2015-16 are the Cline directed Gypsy and To Kill A Mockingbird, and 1776 which is directed by Jennie Eisenhower.

Young actors JD Triolo and Julia Seeley each performed at the event, with pristine vocals which created massive applause throughout the afternoon's crowd. Brian Henry closed the set, reminding everyone of the power of Les Miserables with his performance of "Stars". 

Janet Ecksel with her special guests

Lauren Cupples assists Brian Henry before he performs

Kimberly Bosshardt

Artistic Director Jesse Cline

And the Stars will keep shining on The Media Theatre stage, with Tony nominee appearing as Mama Rose this fall in "Gypsy" (Sept. 23-Nov. 1).

For information about becoming a subscriber or to find out more about upcoming events, visit mediatheatre.org or call 610-891-0100. We'd love to see you at the Subscriber Party in 2016!

MEDIA THEATRE ANNOUNCES ENTIRE 'THE WHO'S TOMMY' CAST FOR SUMMER EVENT

The classic rock and roll musical "The Who's Tommy" is at The Media Theatre July 9 through August 10 with performances on Fridays at 7pm; Saturdays at 2pm and 7pm; and Sundays at 3pm each weekend.

The summer production is an educational experience for young teen actors as they work with professional adults actors to bring Pete Townshend's sensational show to life.

Previously announced cast members include professional actor Garrison Carpenter as Tommy, who recently appeared in The Media Theatre's "Ghost: The Musical". Adam Hoyak, who appeared alongside Andrea McArdle in the recent "Hello Dolly", is Captain Walker.

The complete cast is:

Tommy....Garrison Carpenter
Five Year Old Tommy...Aiden Fox
Ten Year Old Tommy...(double cast) Josh Atkinson, Ben Pedersen
Captain Walker....Adam Hoyak
Mrs. Walker....Emily Kinka
Uncle Ernie....Roger Ricker
Acid Queen.... (double cast) Amber Duncan/ Madison Yannatelli 
The Lover/ Mr. Simpson...Corey Katona
Sally Simpson..... (double cast) Caroline Adams/ Gigi Furlan      
Mrs. Simpson.....Gigi Furlan
Cousin Kevin.....Owen Mannion
Kevin's Mom......(double cast) Amber Duncan/ Madison Yannatelli
Minister...............Denzel Thomas
Minister's Wife....Mariah Seltzer
Nurse........Jillian Donohue
The Judge...Ted Harris
Ensemble (portrays Lads, Lasses, Specialists, Nurses, Cops, etc): Everyone listed above plus Tim Haney, Hanna Murphy, Sean O' Neill, Terry Stein, and Evan Vandenbrul.

Understudies:
Tommy....Adam Hoyak
Captain Walker...Denzel Thomas
Mrs. Walker...Amber Duncan
Uncle Ernie/ Minister/ Judge....Tim Haney
Cousin Kevin/ The Lover/ Mr. Simpson...Evan Vandenbrul
Mrs. Simpson...Madison Yannatelli
Five Year Old and Ten Year Old Tommy...Sean O' Neill

Jesse Cline directs, with music direction by Christopher Ertelt. 

For tickets ($12-15) call 610-891-0100 or visit mediatheatre.org





                                 

PROFESSIONAL ACTORS HEADLINE 'THE WHO'S TOMMY' SUMMER MUSICAL AT MEDIA THEATRE

The Media Theatre's Broadway Series starts up again in September, but until then several professional actors who have appeared on its stage will headline the classic rock and roll musical "The Who's Tommy" in July and August.

Pete Townshend's Tony winning musical about the deaf, blind, and mute boy who becomes a famous Pinball Wizard will not only highlight a dozen talented teen performers, it will put the spotlight on several of the area's professional actors who will bring their years of experience to the stage.

Garrison Carpenter, who will play the role of Tommy

Garrison Carpenter, recently seen in The Media Theatre's popular "Ghost: The Musical", will add his pop tenor to the role of Tommy. Carpenter recieved his masters degree in opera performance from Florida State University. Recent roles include Tony in West Side Story and Sweeney Todd in Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street.  

Adam Hoyak is Captain Walker in July and August

Adam Hoyak, who worked alongside Andrea McArdle in the critically acclaimed "Hello Dolly", will play the role of Captain Walker. A Georgia native, Adam has worked regionally with The Eagle Theatre, 11^th Hour Theatre Company, and  Bristol Riverside Theatre, among others. Recent credits: New Rochelle Ensemble in Ragtime (Bristol Riverside)  Frank Abagnale Jr. in Catch Me If You Can and Gabe in  Next to Normal (The Eagle Theatre), Eddie Birdlace in Dogfight and Matthew in Altar Boyz (11^th Hour), and Terpsicore in Xanadu (Mazeppa). He holds a BFA from the University of the Arts.  

"These special guest actors will not only add a dimension of professionalism to the production, they will set quite an example for the young aspiring actors in the show," said Artistic Director Jesse Cline. "It's entertainment for the audience as well as a unique educational opportunity for the youth cast who truly have a passion for music theatre."

Roger Ricker, a Media Theatre veteran who has appeared in over 85 productions including "Annie", "Jesus Christ Superstar", and "Hairspray" will portray Uncle Ernie. He is currently the evil Jafar in "Aladdin Jr.".

The Ensemble will feature adult performers Tim Haney, Terry Stein, and Denzel Thomas, all who are also appearing in "Aladdin Jr." this summer.

The youth cast will be announced June 15, made up of ages 11 to 18. They will portray all other roles in "The Who's Tommy", which will have a live orchestra conducted by resident music director Christopher Ertelt.

For tickets to "The Who's Tommy", which runs Fridays at 7pm, Saturdays at 2pm and 7pm, and Sundays at 3pm July 10 to August 9, call 610-891-0100. Tickets will be available online soon. Be sure to call for the best seats available.