Showing posts with label musical. Show all posts
Showing posts with label musical. Show all posts

Thursday, October 14, 2021

FPAC to present Mary Poppins

The Franklin Performing Arts Company (FPAC) will present Disney & Cameron Mackintosh’s Mary Poppins. The production, choreographed by and starring Broadway’s Clay Rice-Thomson, will run October 15-17 and 22-24 at THE BLACK BOX. Everyone's favorite practically perfect nanny takes flight in THE BLACK BOX for this Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious musical adventure. 

The production stars NYC’s Kaley Were as the title character. Were has performed regionally and across America with The Wizard of Oz National as well as at Lyric Theatre of Oklahoma (Bernice Bobs Her Hair, Mary Poppins, Oklahoma!, Big Fish), and Disney Cruise Line (Disney Magic, Disney Fantasy, Disney Dream). She has most recently been sailing the seven seas with Disney Cruise Line, performing on the Disney Dream in the IAAPA award-winning production of Beauty and the Beast. Were graduated from Oklahoma City University's Bass School of Music with a Bachelor of Music in Music Theatre. This will be her first production with FPAC.

Choreographing the production and starring as the loveable chimney sweep Bert, is Broadway’s Clay Rice-Thomson. Rice-Thomson has performed on Broadway in KING KONG (King’s Company), Newsies (Spot Colon), Matilda (Michael Wormwood), and the Broadway National Tours of WICKED (Chistery), Jesus Christ Superstar, West Side Story (A-rab), and Cameron Macintosh’s Oliver. His TV credits include Saturday Night Live, The TONY Awards, MACYS Thanksgiving Day Parade, The Tonight Show, GMA, The Late Show, The View, The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, and more. With FPAC, Rice-Thomson choreographed Matilda, starred in Christopher Rice's The Tappy Christmas Special: LIVE!, and most recently played Aaron Schultz in summer 2021’s Legally Blonde.  

FPAC’s production, directed by Raye Lynn Mercer, is presented with a live professional orchestra and the spectacular aerial effects of Flying By Foy. Based on the books by P.L. Travers and the classic Walt Disney film, Disney and Cameron Mackintosh's Mary Poppins delighted Broadway audiences for over 2,500 performances and received nominations for nine Olivier and seven Tony Awards, including Best Musical. Mary Poppins is an enchanting mixture of irresistible story, unforgettable songs, breathtaking dance numbers, and astonishing stagecraft.

Mary Poppins runs October 15-17 and 22-24 at THE BLACK BOX in downtown Franklin. Tickets are on sale  now at www.THEBLACKBOXonline.com or by calling the box office at 508-528-3370. Patrons are invited to follow the Franklin Performing Arts Company on Facebook and Instagram (@franklin.performing.arts.co) for season updates, behind the scenes looks at their productions, and more. 

Kaley Were as Mary Poppins (photo by Paul Vicario)
Kaley Were as Mary Poppins (photo by Paul Vicario)


Monday, August 2, 2021

FPAC announces cast for Legally Blonde

The Franklin Performing Arts Company (FPAC) has announced the cast for their production of Legally Blonde the Musical. The production, originally scheduled for March 2020, marks the return of live theater for FPAC at THE BLACK BOX

Starring as sorority girl turned Harvard Law student Elle Woods will be Ali Funkhouser. A NYC based actress, this will be Funkhouser’s third production of Legally Blonde, having most recently appeared in The Lex’s production directed by Broadway’s original Elle, Laura Bell Bundy. She has been seen in many FPAC productions including Newsies, Joseph, Little Shop of Horrors, and Christopher Rice’s The Tappy Christmas Special: LIVE! 

Elliott Styles will also return to the world of Legally Blonde starring as Elle’s lovable best friend and Harvard guide Emmett Forrest, a role he played with both Riverside Theatre and Walnut Street Theatre.

FPAC is excited to welcome Ryan Vona to the cast as Warner Huntington III. Vona is best known for his work on Broadway in Once and Cirque du Soleil’s Paramour. His debut album Somebody was released in 2015. 

Audrey Cardwell joins the cast as Vivienne Kensington. Cardwell is known for the First National Tours of Falsettos, Bright Star, Cinderella, Elf, and Anything Goes.

NYC’s Katie Gray returns to FPAC as Paulette. Her FPAC credits include Matilda, Christopher Rice’s The Tappy Christmas Special: LIVE, The Addams Family, and more.

Also sharing the stage in Legally Blonde will be Ricky and Myrtle from William Berloni Theatrical Animals as Elle’s canine friends. Berloni and his handlers have provided animals of all species and sizes, found in shelters, humane societies or rescue leagues, for Broadway, off-Broadway, national tours, regional theaters, special events, the New York City Ballet, motion pictures, television, and commercials.

The cast also features Kelsey Breslin as Brooke Wyndham, Caroline Wilkins, Hayley Driscoll, and Courtney Beyer as Elle’s best friends Serena, Margot, and Pilar, Nick Paone as Professor Callahan, Audrey Miningham as Enid, Clay Rice-Thomson as Aaron Schulz, Alexx Stachowiak as Nikos/Padamadan, Griffin Wilkins as Grandmaster Chad and others, Guy Rezendes as Kyle and Sami Goldman as Chutney. Rounding out the cast are Aaron Andrade, Blas Cerda, Tzintli Cerda, John Fitzhenry, Kim Frigon, Mariko Matsumura, Tatiana McAlpine, Hannah Rezendes, Maddie Rezendes, and Colie Vancura. 

FPAC’s production, directed by Raye Lynn Mercer, also features Jerry Mitchell’s original Broadway choreography re-staged for THE BLACK BOX and music direction by Hallie Wetzell. As a special treat for FPAC audiences, patrons at the two Saturday August 14 performances will be able to meet Broadway’s original Brooke Wyndham Nikki Snelson. Snelson has appeared in concert with FPAC and will be coaching FPAC’s Legally Blonde cast.

Legally Blonde presented by the Franklin Performing Arts Company runs August 11-15 at THE BLACK BOX in downtown Franklin, MA. Tickets can be purchased at www.THEBLACKBOXonline.com or by calling the box office at 508-528-3370. 

 

(clockwise from top left): Ali Funkhouser (Elle Woods), Elliott Styles (Emmett Forrest), Ryan Vona (Warner Huntington III), Audrey Cardwell (Vivienne Kensington)
(clockwise from top left): Ali Funkhouser (Elle Woods), Elliott Styles (Emmett Forrest), Ryan Vona (Warner Huntington III), Audrey Cardwell (Vivienne Kensington)

Thursday, October 22, 2020

THE BLACK BOX "You're a Good Man Charlie Brown" - Oct 23, 24, and 25

Franklin Performing Arts Company's socially-distanced production of You're a Good Man Charlie Brown which will play its final weekend this Friday through Sunday under the Dean Bank Tent at THE BLACK BOX.

With socially distanced staging, Charlie Brown and the entire Peanuts gang explore life's great questions as they play baseball, struggle with homework, sing songs, swoon over their crushes, and celebrate the joy of friendship. The charming music and humorous vignettes brought to life by the beloved Peanuts characters, offer the laughs and entertainment we need right about now!!

Enjoy and all-star FPAC cast including Nick Paone as Snoopy, Katie Gray as Lucy, Austin Davy as Schroeder, Tim Ayres-Kerr as Linus, Ali Funkhouser as Sally, and featuring Julian DiChiara as Charlie Brown.

Directed by Raye Lynn Mercer with musical direction by Hallie Wetzell, the production is creatively staged with the actors socially distanced. Audience seating will be socially distanced and face coverings are required.

Based on the Comic Strip Peanuts by Charles M. Schulz / Book, Music and Lyrics by Clark Gesner / Originally Produced in New York by Arthur Whitelaw and Gene Persson / Originally Directed in New York by Joseph Hardy

Performances are scheduled for Oct 23, 24 and 25.

 
THE BLACK BOX "You're a Good Man Charlie Brown" - Oct 23, 24, and 25
THE BLACK BOX "You're a Good Man Charlie Brown" - Oct 23, 24, and 25

 

Thursday, September 17, 2020

THE BLACK BOX Sings… Wicked - Sep 26 and Sep 27

THE BLACK BOX, the region’s premier theater, music, and event venue, will present a concert celebrating the music of the fifth longest running show in Broadway history: WICKED. THE BLACK BOX Sings...WICKED will star Broadway Elphaba Emily Koch with Jim Hogan singing Fiyero. Pianist Austin Davy from the Wicked tour accompanies an FPAC all-star cast featuring Ali Funkhouser, Nick Paone, Katie Gray, Hallie Wetzell, and Tim Ayres-Kerr. Socially distanced on THE BLACK BOX Outdoor Stage, join this cast of FPAC favorites for a celebration of the music of WICKED and the story of the Witches of Oz.

THE BLACK BOX Sings...Wicked will be performed September 26 at 2:00 and 7:30 pm and September 27 at 2:00 pm.

Modeled after the popular cabaret series “54 Sings” at Feinstein’s/54 Below in NYC, THE BLACK BOX continues THE BLACK BOX Sings… Series with the songs of Wicked. The series celebrates the music of musicals, composers, and artists sung by Franklin Performing Arts Company favorites.  

THE BLACK BOX is located at 15 W. Central St. in Downtown Franklin, MA. For tickets and more information, call (508) 528-3370 or visit www.THEBLACKBOXonline.com

Broadway Elphaba Emily Koch
Broadway Elphaba Emily Koch

 

Saturday, March 14, 2020

THE BLACK BOX: Legally Blonde Performances Postponed

To the FPAC Community and patrons of THE BLACK BOX,

Due to the evolving situation with the Coronavirus outbreak, the Franklin Performing Arts Company will postpone our production of Legally Blonde scheduled this weekend and next. We look forward to presenting the show for six performances this spring and tickets purchased in advance will be honored at that time. The box office will communicate first with current ticket holders when our new dates are announced.

A production the magnitude of Legally Blonde – with New York guest artist contracts, William Berloni's Theatrical Animals, original Broadway choreography and professional orchestra, as well as the expenses of sets, props and costumes, rights, royalties and creative team, is an enormous financial undertaking. We are facing a frightening burden with the theater closed even for a short period of time. 

This would be a great time to help our company and show your support for THE BLACK BOX with a one-time donation or membership in an FPAC Annual Circle. We need your help now in order to be in a healthy position to reopen when safe to do so. You might also consider donating to FPAC your current Legally Blonde ticket purchases and then repurchase when the box office opens for our new dates.

The FPAC Board of Directors, Creatives, and Artists realize how the arts provide an important opportunity to gather, share, and be inspired in challenging times. We look forward to seeing you at THE BLACK BOX as soon as it is possible! We thank you for your understanding and hope for your support.

Support page for FPAC
https://www.fpaconline.com/pages.php?pname=fpac_support_us

THE BLACK BOX: Legally Blonde Performances Postponed
THE BLACK BOX: Legally Blonde Performances Postponed

Monday, March 9, 2020

FPAC Features Broadway Dogs in Legally Blonde

The Franklin Performing Arts Company (FPAC) has announced the initial casting for their March production of Legally Blonde the Musical. The production stars Broadway and NYC talent, local actors, students of the performing arts, and features Jerry Mitchell’s original Broadway choreography. Also sharing the stage in Legally Blonde will be Frankie and Romeo from William Berloni Theatrical Animals in the roles of Bruiser and Rufus. 

Tony Award winner William Berloni and his handlers have provided animals of all species and sizes, found in shelters, humane societies or rescue leagues, for Broadway, off-Broadway, national tours, regional theaters, special events, the New York City Ballet, motion pictures, television, and commercials.

The FPAC cast is working with handler Rochelle Scudder to learn the different cues and commands involved with the canine actors. “Sometimes we meet actors who are afraid of dogs, allergic to dogs, or lack the instincts ‘dog people’ have,” says Scudder. “When that happens, we have to go back to basics and take extra time to make everyone comfortable.” 


Luckily, the FPAC actors and Berloni Dogs are getting along wonderfully. “The FPAC cast bonded with the dogs very quickly. They are all naturals and are making my job easy.” Tony Award winning trainer William Berloni will be on hand at THE BLACK BOX for the production’s closing weekend.

Ali Funkhouser, who plays Elle Woods, has worked with Berloni Theatrical Animals in previous productions of Legally Blonde. “It’s a fun added element to the show,” she says. “The dogs are the ultimate pros.”

Legally Blonde the Musical presented by the Franklin Performing Arts Company will run at THE BLACK BOX in downtown Franklin March 14, 15, 20, 21, and 22. For tickets and more information, visit www.THEBLACKBOXonline.com or call the box office at 508-528-3370.
FPAC Features Broadway Dogs in Legally Blonde
FPAC Features Broadway Dogs in Legally Blonde
Berloni Theatrical Animals are sponsored for FPAC’s production by Franklin Veterinary Clinic, The Parkman Family Foundation, Dr. Hedley Marks/Ashfield-Cheyne Vet Service, VetMed Pet Supplies, and Shear Elegance Pet Services. Local canine fans will be pictured in the playbill as members of the Bruiser sponsor club. FPAC’s Legally Blonde the Musical is sponsored by Doherty, Dugan, Cannon, Raymond, and Weil P.C., WirkusFlynnYoung, Roy Law, and John Roche. Dean Bank is an FPAC Season Sponsor.

Wednesday, February 26, 2020

Broadway March Madness at THE BLACK BOX

Broadway March Madness is coming to THE BLACK BOX, the region’s premier theater, music, and event venue in downtown Franklin. Stars of Broadway will be in residence at THE BLACK BOX throughout the month of March.

March Madness begins with THE BLACK BOX Broadway Series on March 7 starring Broadway couple Kara Lindsay and Kevin Massey. Broadway icon Kara Lindsay’s credits include Wicked (Glinda), Newsies (Katherine, Original Cast and Fathom Events Film), and Beautiful (Cynthia Weil). Kevin Massey’s Broadway credits include Disney’s Tarzan, A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder, Memphis, and Deaf West’s Big River. His European credits include Disney’s Tarzan and Grease. The special one-night-only concert is sponsored by the Franklin Cultural District Committee and will be followed by master classes for aspiring performers the next day.

The Franklin Performing Arts Company presents Legally Blonde the Musical March 14, 15, 20, 21, and 22. The cast features NYC talent including Ali Funkhouser (national tours of Joseph...Dreamcoat and Evita), Jim Hogan (national tours of Waitress, Phantom of the Opera, Spring Awakening), Emily Koch (Broadway’s WICKED, Waitress), and Andrew Scott Holmes (Princess Cruises) as well as William Berloni Theatrical Dogs. The production re-stages Jerry Mitchell’s original Broadway choreography.

Broadway in Franklin returns to THE BLACK BOX on Sunday, March 29 at 3 pm starring Christine Cornish Smith, Chaz Wolcott, and the musical theater students of the Franklin School for the Performing Arts. 

Christine Cornish Smith was most recently seen in the Original Broadway Cast revival of Kiss Me, Kate!, where she was a featured dancer in the ensemble and covered Lois Lane/Bianca. Christine is most well known for her portrayal of Bombalurina in the OBC revival of CATS, and was also seen in the OBC of My Fair Lady at the Lincoln Center Theater. For her work in CATS, she was nominated for "Best Female Performance in a Broadway Musical" for the 2017 Chita Rivera Awards. A cum laude graduate of the Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music, she is a former principal dancer with the Dallas Metropolitan Ballet. 

Chaz Wolcott earned his BFA in Dance from Oklahoma City University. As a performer, Chaz has been seen as Buttons on the First National Tour of Disney’s Newsies. You can also catch his performance in Disney’s Newsies: The Broadway Musical, available for digital download on iTunes and Amazon. Chaz starred in the 30th Anniversary Tour of Cats as the Magical Mr. Mistoffelees. He was featured on FOX’s So You Think You Can Dance. He was last in Franklin to choreograph FPAC’s Newsies.

For tickets and more information, visit www.THEBLACKBOXonline.com or call the box office at 508-528-3370. THE BLACK BOX is located at 15 W. Central St. in downtown Franklin, MA

Broadway couple Kara Lindsay and Kevin Massey
Broadway couple Kara Lindsay and Kevin Massey

Sunday, February 2, 2020

FPAC announces initial casting for Legally Blonde

The Franklin Performing Arts Company (FPAC) has announced the initial casting for their March production of Legally Blonde the Musical.

Starring as sorority girl turned Harvard Law student Elle Woods will be Ali Funkhouser. A NYC based actress, this will be Funkhouser’s third production of Legally Blonde, having most recently appeared in The Lex’s production directed by Broadway’s original Elle, Laura Bell Bundy. Funkhouser recently performed her solo show “I Only Wanna Laugh” at Don’t Tell Mama in NYC. She has been seen in many FPAC productions including Newsies, Joseph, Little Shop of Horrors, and most recently #TappyXmasLIVE.

Jim Hogan will star as Elle’s lovable best friend and Harvard guide Emmett Forrest. Hogan has been seen in the touring companies of Waitress, The Phantom of the Opera, and Spring Awakening. Recently, his cover of Into the Unknown from Frozen 2 went viral; it can be viewed on Instagram (@jimhogan220).

FPAC is excited to welcome Emily Koch back to Franklin as Vivienne. She has appeared in the Broadway and touring companies of WICKED and Waitress. Koch has performed her solo show “eMulbOy5” at Feinstein’s/54 Below and other cabaret venues around NYC. She was last onstage with FPAC for 2019’s Broadway in Franklin.

Andrew Scott Holmes will join the cast as Warner Huntington III. Holmes has performed all over the world as a Resident Guest Entertainer with Princess Cruises. From Goodspeed Opera House to Great Lakes Theater and beyond, he has played leading roles and understudied Broadway stars. With FPAC, Holmes was most recently seen earlier this season in Matilda.

Zoë Kassay returns to FPAC as Paulette. A former Equity actor, Zoë’s regional credits include Legally Blonde, Hairspray, 9 to 5 , Smokey Joe’s Cafe, Footloose, Singin’ in the Rain, and a stint as a mainstage performer with Disney Cruise Line. She was most recently onstage with FPAC as Sally Bowles in Cabaret.

 Ali Funkhouser (Elle), Jim Hogan (Emmett), Emily Koch (Vivienne), and Andrew Scott Holmes (Warner)
 (Top left 2 right) Ali Funkhouser (Elle), Jim Hogan (Emmett), (Bottom left 2 right) Andrew Scott Holmes (Warner) and Emily Koch (Vivienne)
Also sharing the stage in Legally Blonde will be Ricky and Myrtle from William Berloni Theatrical Animals as Elle’s canine friends. Berloni and his handlers have provided animals of all species and sizes, found in shelters, humane societies or rescue leagues, for Broadway, off-Broadway, national tours, regional theaters, special events, the New York City Ballet, motion pictures, television, and commercials.

Further casting will be announced at a later date. Legally Blonde the Musical presented by the Franklin Performing Arts Company will run at THE BLACK BOX in downtown Franklin March 14, 15, 20, 21, and 22. For tickets and more information, visit www.THEBLACKBOXonline.com or call the box office at 508-528-3370.

Tuesday, November 12, 2019

Dean College Presents: "Wonderful Town" - Nov 20-24, 2019

The School of the Arts at Dean College will perform Wonderful Town, beginning Wednesday, November 20 through Sunday, November 24, 2019.

Dean College Presents: "Wonderful Town"
Dean College Presents: "Wonderful Town"
Based on the hit play and film, My Sister Eileen, the musical Wonderful Town tells the hilarious and heart-warming story of two Midwestern sisters, newly arrived in New York. One, an aspiring writer, and the other, an actress and dancer, they leave their home in Ohio and wind up sharing a basement apartment in Greenwich Village. While pursuing their dreams, they deal with broken hearts and surround themselves with a cast of characters only to be found in the Village. 

Featuring a magical score by Bernstein, Comden and Green, and including the numbers “Ohio”, “One Hundred Ways”, “It’s Love”, “Conga” and “The Wrong Note Rag”, Wonderful Town was the winner of the 1953 Tony award and subsequent Broadway revival and West End honors.

The Dean College production of Wonderful Town will take place in the Main Stage in the Campus Center at Dean College, 109 West Central Street, Franklin at 7:30 PM Wednesday – Saturday and 2:00 PM Saturday and Sunday. 

General admission is $22, Seniors $12 and Children $7.
To learn more and purchase tickets, visit www.dean.edu/boxoffice.


Friday, November 8, 2019

Franklin Middle School Footlighters present "THE WIZARD OF OZ"

Franklin Middle School Footlighters present THE WIZARD OF OZ

When: Friday, November 22 & Saturday, November 23 beginning at 7:00 PM

Where:  HMMS auditorium

Tickets $10 at the door

Over 50 Franklin middle school students in the cast, 25+ helping with set art and on crew, FHS kids playing in the orchestra

Franklin Middle School Footlighters present "THE WIZARD OF OZ"
Franklin Middle School Footlighters present "THE WIZARD OF OZ"

Shared from Twitter  https://twitter.com/MelloHistory/status/1192137509209333760

Tuesday, October 29, 2019

Dean College Presents: "Wonderful Town" Nov 20-24, 2019

The School of the Arts at Dean College will perform Wonderful Town, beginning Wednesday, November 20 through Sunday, November 24, 2019.

Based on the hit play and film, My Sister Eileen, the musical Wonderful Town tells the hilarious and heart-warming story of two Midwestern sisters, newly arrived in New York. One, an aspiring writer, and the other, an actress and dancer, they leave their home in Ohio and wind up sharing a basement apartment in Greenwich Village. While pursuing their dreams, they deal with broken hearts and surround themselves with a cast of characters only to be found in the Village. 

Featuring a magical score by Bernstein, Comden and Green, and including the numbers “Ohio”, “One Hundred Ways”, “It’s Love”, “Conga” and “The Wrong Note Rag”, Wonderful Town was the winner of the 1953 Tony award and subsequent Broadway revival and West End honors.

The Dean College production of Wonderful Town will take place in the Main Stage in the Campus Center at Dean College, 109 West Central Street, Franklin at 7:30 PM Wednesday – Saturday and 2:00 PM Saturday and Sunday. 

General admission is $22, Seniors $12 and Children $7.
To learn more and purchase tickets, visit www.dean.edu/boxoffice.

 
Dean College Presents: "Wonderful Town" Nov 20-24, 2019
Dean College Presents: "Wonderful Town" Nov 20-24, 2019

Thursday, October 10, 2019

FPAC presents Matilda starring Broadway’s Sam Zeller - Oct 19-27

The Franklin Performing Arts Company (FPAC) will present Roald Dahl’s Matilda the Musical choreographed by original Broadway cast member Clay Thomson and starring Broadway’s Sam Zeller as Trunchbull October 19, 20, and 25-27 at THE BLACK BOX in downtown Franklin, MA.

Inspired by the twisted genius of Roald Dahl, the Tony Award-winning Roald Dahl's Matilda the Musical is the captivating masterpiece from the Royal Shakespeare Company that revels in the anarchy of childhood, the power of imagination, and the inspiring story of a girl who dreams of a better life. With book by Dennis Kelly and original songs by Tim Minchin, Matilda has won 47 international awards and continues to thrill sold-out audiences of all ages around the world.

Sam Zeller appeared in the Broadway and national tour companies of Peter Pan as well as the First National Tour of Kinky Boots (Don). Zeller has countless regional credits including Oklahoma! With Hillside Repertory Company in LA where he starred as Curly with resident FPAC Music Director Hallie Wetzell as Ado Annie.

Having just finished the run of KING KONG on Broadway, Clay Thomson started out as a competitive gymnast at the age of four, which eventually led him into the performing arts. At age twelve, Thomson joined the Cameron Mackintosh/NETworks tour of Oliver!. After completing his freshman year at Pennsylvania State University studying Musical Theatre, Thomson toured the U.S, Canada, and Japan with the Broadway First National Tour of West Side Story as A-rab. 

Roald Dahl’s Matilda the Musical
Roald Dahl’s Matilda the Musical
Soon after returning from tour, he made his Broadway debut in Disney's Newsies, playing Spot Conlon. After that, he was cast in the Original Broadway cast of Roald Dahl’s Matilda the Musical. Thomson is featured in the viral YouTube video #CupsTapDance as well as his most recent appearance in The Happy Tap Dance #TAPPY.

The production stars Franklin’s Aida Ryan DiChiara in the title role. Aida is a fifth grader at Oak Street Elementary. She recently appeared as Young Anna in THE BLACK BOX Sings...Frozen. Her other FPAC credits include the Children’s Choir of Joseph...Dreamcoat, Humbug!, Seussical, and the holiday panto Alice in a Winter Wonderland. DiChiara studies singing, acting, and dancing at the Franklin School for the Performing Arts.

FPAC’s production of Roald Dahl’s Matilda the Musical will run October 19, 20, and 25-27 at THE BLACK BOX in downtown Franklin, MA. 

For tickets and more information, visit www.FPAConline.com or call 508-528-3370.

Monday, September 23, 2019

THE BLACK BOX Sings...Rodgers & Hammerstein - Sep 28

THE BLACK BOX will present a concert featuring the music of legendary musical theater duo Rodgers and Hammerstein on Saturday, September 28 at 8:00 PM. Innovators of the American Musical Theater, Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein II created some of the most memorable music to grace the Great White Way. 

From classics like Oklahoma!, Carousel, and The Sound of Music to lesser known gems like Allegro, audiences will enjoy performances of the pair's timeless music. Featuring NYC guests, Boston-based vocalists, voice faculty from the Franklin School for the Performing Arts, and Franklin Performing Arts Company favorites.

Modeled after the popular cabaret series “54 Sings” at Feinstein’s/54 Below in NYC, THE BLACK BOX Sings… series celebrates the music of musicals, composers, and artists sung by Franklin Performing Arts Company favorites accompanied by the ACME Rhythm Section.

Tickets for THE BLACK BOX Sings...Rodgers and Hammerstein are available at www.THEBLACKBOXonline.com or by calling the box office at 508-528-3370. The venue features a full bar. THE BLACK BOX is located at 15 W. Central St. in Franklin, MA

THE BLACK BOX Sings...Rodgers & Hammerstein
THE BLACK BOX Sings...Rodgers & Hammerstein

Saturday, August 24, 2019

FPAC Announces Season of World Premiers, Franklin Favorites, and Broadway Stars

The Franklin Performing Arts Company (FPAC) is excited to announce its 29th Season. The theater company based out of THE BLACK BOX will present a year of world premiers, Franklin favorites, and Broadway stars. The season opens with Yasmina Reza’s award winning comedy Art. Serge has bought a modern painting for a huge sum of money. Marc hates it and cannot believe that a friend of his could possibly want such a work. Yvan attempts, unsuccessfully, to placate both sides. If your friendship is based on tacit mutual agreement, what happens when one person does something completely different and unexpected? Art directed by Nick Paone runs September 20-22 at THE BLACK BOX.

Save the date for FPAC’s annual Gala hosted by Broadway’s Michael James Scott on Saturday, October 12 at THE BLACK BOX. This year, the company celebrates WISHES starring the Genie himself from Broadway’s Aladdin. FPAC’s annual, signature gala event marks their sixth season at THE BLACK BOX, FPAC’s home and performance venue. The night will feature inspired cuisine, exciting live and silent auctions, fabulous entertainment, and dancing.
FPAC Announces 29th Season
FPAC Announces 29th Season

FPAC presents Roald Dahl's Matilda The Musical, choreographed by Broadway's Clay Thomson (King Kong, Newsies, Matilda) October 19, 20, and 25-27. Inspired by the twisted genius of Roald Dahl, the Tony Award-winning Roald Dahl's Matilda The Musical is the captivating masterpiece from the Royal Shakespeare Company that revels in the anarchy of childhood, the power of imagination, and the inspiring story of a girl who dreams of a better life. With book by Dennis Kelly and original songs by Tim Minchin, Matilda has won 47 international awards and continues to thrill sold-out audiences of all ages around the world. Audiences will be treated to Broadway choreography in the suburbs.

Experience all the festive magic and colorful splendor of The Nutcracker as FPAC stages its cherished annual production of the holiday classic with live orchestra, special guest artists, and more than 100 area dancers December 7 and 8 at the Franklin High School Auditorium. The Nutcracker remains a highly anticipated and treasured part of the FPAC season - a popular holiday tradition for more than 20 years. The world-famous ballet, set to Tchaikovsky’s beloved score, delights the imaginations of audiences young and old with a professional production at a reasonable price. Fall under Drosselmeyer’s dreamy spell and join Clara and her Nutcracker Prince on a journey full of surprises and wonder.

The holidays are jolly and bright as ’Tis the Season! returns to entertain FPAC audiences with great merriment, fanfare, and fun. An original large cast musical first presented by FPAC in 1995, ’Tis is an upbeat, jazzy extravaganza featuring members of the Kenny Hadley Big Band, with contemporary arrangements of favorite holiday classics in musical styles ranging from R&B, gospel, and Motown to rock, pop, and Broadway. Celebrate the season with FPAC December 14 and 15 at the Franklin High School Auditorium.

FPAC is thrilled to present the world premiere of Christopher Rice's The Tappy Christmas Special LIVE!. Based off of Rice's viral #TAPPY video series, this Christmas spectacular will feature Rice, other special Broadway surprise guests, and FPAC favorites all on one stage. Christopher Rice joined the FPAC family last season when he headlined the sold-out run of Disney's Newsies as Jack Kelly. Currently appearing in Pretty Woman on Broadway, Rice's other credits include The Book of Mormon on Broadway, the national tours of West Side Story, White Christmas, and more. The viral tap dance video series #TAPPY has been seen by over 3 million people worldwide. Local audiences will have the chance to be part of the live studio audience at THE BLACK BOX December 20-22.

On January 24-26, the classic comedy Tartuffe comes to THE BLACK BOX. So virtuous is Tartuffe that every form of pleasure is an abomination to him. Orgon, a rich merchant, is completely duped by the ruse and watches approvingly as the cunning Tartuffe "reforms" his whole family. So besotted is the merchant that he even plans to give Tartuffe his fortune, his house, and finally his daughter. Orgon's wife finally exposes Tartuffe for the rogue he is -- and her husband for being a gullible fool. By the time Orgon sees the light, only the courts can insure justice. This clever adaptation of Moliere’s comedy is a must-see at THE BLACK BOX.
Season of World Premiers, Franklin Favorites, and Broadway Stars
Season of World Premiers, Franklin Favorites, and Broadway Stars

THE BLACK BOX turns pink March 13-15 and 20-22 as Legally Blonde the Musical takes the stage. A fabulously fun award-winning musical based on the adored movie, Legally Blonde The Musical follows the transformation of Elle Woods as she tackles stereotypes and scandal in pursuit of her dreams. Action-packed and exploding with memorable songs and featuring Jerry Mitchell’s original Broadway choreography, this musical is so much fun, it shouldn't be legal.

FPAC’s season will close June 5-7 with Stephen Sondheim’s Into the Woods at THE BLACK BOX. James Lapine and Stephen Sondheim take everyone's favorite storybook characters and bring them together for a timeless, yet relevant, piece. The Tony Award-winning book and score are both enchanting and touching. The story follows a baker and his wife, who wish to have a child; Cinderella, who wishes to attend the King's Festival; and Jack, who wishes his cow would give milk. When the Baker and his wife learn that they cannot have a child because of a Witch's curse, the two set off on a journey to break the curse. Everyone's wish is granted, but the consequences of their actions return to haunt them later with disastrous results.

For tickets and more information, visit www.FPAConline.com or call 508-528-3370. THE BLACK BOX is located at 15 W. Central St. in Franklin, MA. 

Tuesday, June 18, 2019

FSPA Alumni Return for “Homecoming Cabaret” at THE BLACK BOX - Jun 22

Four alumni of the Franklin School for the Performing Arts (FSPA) will return to Franklin for a one-night only “Homecoming Cabaret” on Saturday, June 22 at 8:00 pm at THE BLACK BOX. Madi Asgeirsson ('16), Pat Dutton ('11), Sam Evans ('18), and Katie Gray ('17) will be joined by the ACME Rhythm Section for an evening of entertainment presented in an intimate night-club atmosphere.

Madi Asgeirsson is a rising senior at Wagner College studying musical theater, Pat Dutton graduated from Wagner College in 2015, Sam Evans will be a sophomore musical theater major at the University of Miami, and Katie Gray just graduated from the American Musical and Dramatic Academy in NYC.

Entertainment for the evening is accompanied by the venue’s full bar. This special cabaret is part of the Franklin School for the Performing Arts Homecoming Weekend. On Friday night, the school will hold its annual “Prom” for past and present students and their families.

For tickets and more information, visit www.theblackboxonline.com or call 508-528-3370.

FSPA Alumni Return for “Homecoming Cabaret” at THE BLACK BOX - Jun 22
FSPA Alumni Return for “Homecoming Cabaret” at THE BLACK BOX - Jun 22

Friday, June 14, 2019

FPAC performs "Cabaret" at THE BLACK BOX Jun 14-15

In a Berlin nightclub, as the 1920s draw to a close, a garish Master of Ceremonies welcomes the audience and assures them they will forget all their troubles at the CABARET. 

With the Emcee’s bawdy songs as wry commentary, CABARET explores the dark, heady, and tumultuous life of Berlin’s natives and expatriates as Germany slowly yields to the emerging Third Reich. Cliff, a young American writer newly arrived in Berlin, is immediately taken by English singer Sally Bowles. 

Meanwhile, Fräulein Schneider, proprietor of Cliff and Sally’s boarding house, tentatively begins a romance with Herr Schultz, a mild-mannered fruit seller who happens to be Jewish. Musical numbers include “Willkommen,” “Cabaret,” “Don’t Tell Mama” and “Two Ladies.” CABARET contains mature themes.
  • Friday, June 14 7:30 pm
  • Saturday, June 15 2:00 pm
  • Saturday June 15 7:30 pm
Seating is General Admission, Cabaret-Style so we recommend large parties arrive early to be able to sit together.

CABARET is sponsored by the Rockland Trust Charitable Foundation and the Waters Corporation.


GET TICKETS  https://www.theblackboxonline.com/events.php?id=1195

Presented by arrangement with Tams-Witmark, A Concord Theatricals Company www.tamswitmark.com

FPAC performs "Cabaret" at THE BLACK BOX Jun 14-15
FPAC performs "Cabaret" at THE BLACK BOX Jun 14-15

Friday, March 29, 2019

Franklin High School presents Seussical the musical

Franklin High School presents Seussical the musical. 

Performances are scheduled for Friday, Mar 29 at 7:00 PM; Saturday, Mar 30 at 7:00 PM, and Sunday, Mar 31 at 2:00 PM.

Tickets are $15 and can be purchased at the door.

Download a copy of the poster 
https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B0ey44FDRZQYeXlORFdiU0h3SUZNWXJMTFFqTG15TzItT3k0/view?usp=sharing



Franklin High School presents Seussical the musical
Franklin High School presents Seussical the musical


Wednesday, March 27, 2019

TOM RUSH with Matt Nakoa at OCC Coffeehouse - April 5

OCC COFFEEHOUSE
Original Congregational Church
1 East Street, Wrentham, MA 02093
Phone: 508-384-3110

The two concerts listed below are the final ones of our 2018-2019 season. Tickets for the Tom Rush show are selling briskly, so it is likely they will sellout. Tickets for all shows are available at the church office, 508-384-3110, or at www.musicatocc.org.

TOM RUSH with Matt Nakoa
Friday, April 5, 7:30 PM

Tom is a gifted musician and performer, whose shows offer a musical celebration and journey into the tradition and spectrum of what music has been, can be, and will become. His distinctive guitar style, wry humor and warm, expressive voice have made him both a legend and a lure to audiences around the world. His shows are filled with the rib-aching laughter of terrific story-telling, the sweet melancholy of ballads and the passion of gritty blues. 
TOM RUSH with Matt Nakoa at OCC Coffeehouse, Wrentham
TOM RUSH with Matt Nakoa at OCC Coffeehouse

Rush's impact on the American music scene has been profound. He helped shape the folk revival in the '60s and the renaissance of the '80s and '90s, his music having left its stamp on generations of artists. James Taylor told Rolling Stone, "Tom was not only one of my early heroes, but also one of my main influences." Country music star Garth Brooks has credited Rush with being one of his top five musical influences.


Matt Nakoa,Tom's keyboard player and vocalist, now tours internationally, recently performing at The White House, throughout India, and regularly with folk music icon Tom Rush. Matt's piano music has received favorable reviews in publications including The New York Times, and his film scoring has been featured by Disney.

Tickets are $45, in the church sanctuary.


OCC Coffeehouse is a non-profit organization affiliated with the Original Congregational Church in Wrentham. Doors open 30 minutes before the concert. Please call 508-384-8084, email occmusic99@gmail.com, or visit http://www.musicatocc.org for more information.