Riverside Center for the Performing Arts Archives - Page 4 of 5

Published October 4, 2024 at 10:55AM | Updated October 26, 2024 at 4:40PM

This October, the Riverside Center for the Performing Arts Children’s Theatre is set to delight audiences with its staging of Roald Dahl’s “Willy Wonka.” The musical, scheduled for performances every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday throughout the month, except for a break on Thursday, October 24, promises a captivating adventure for all ages.

Adapted for the stage by Leslie Bricusse and Timothy Allen McDonald, with music and lyrics by Leslie Bricusse and Anthony Newley, the production is based on Dahl’s timeless story, “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.” The show features the beloved songs from the 1971 film starring Gene Wilder and introduces new tunes by Bricusse and Newley, transporting audiences into Willy Wonka’s mysterious and wondrous chocolate factory.

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Breaking Barriers and Hitting High Notes in “Beautiful: The Carole King Story”

By Uriah Kiser

Published October 2, 2024 at 9:00AM | Updated October 26, 2024 at 4:41PM

[Photo: Suzanne Carr Rossi]

At the Riverside Center for the Performing Arts, the stage lights up with spotlights and stories of legendary musicians and songwriters who shaped a generation.

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Riverside Center for the Performing Arts Unveils 2025 Season Featuring Music, Drama, and Inspiration

By Uriah Kiser

Published September 25, 2024 at 8:00AM

A’Hearn will direct Sound of Music. Although he had initially been hesitant to direct this iconic show, he is now looking forward to the challenge and is excited to bring a fresh perspective to this beloved classic.

“Talent is talent, no matter the age,” said A’Hearn. “We’re lucky to have these young performers bringing their energy and skills to our productions, and it’s exciting to watch them grow.”

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Review: ‘Beautiful: The Carole King Musical’ at Riverside Center for the Performing Arts

By Uriah Kiser

Published September 24, 2024 at 9:00AM | Updated October 26, 2024 at 4:41PM

[Photo: Suzanne Carr Rossi]

Ashlee Waldbauer returns to the Riverside stage with a show-stealing performance as Carole King. Her rendition of “Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow” melts the audience and reminds us why King’s music continues to resonate across generations. Waldbaur, who also starred in Riverside’s spring production of They’re Playing Our Song, showcases an ability to channel the emotional depth and vulnerability that made King’s music timeless.

Another Riverside veteran, Zachary Spafford, brings powerhouse vocals to his portrayal of characters like one of the Righteous Brothers, delivering a stunning performance of “You’ve Lost That Lovin’ Feeling.” Audiences will remember Spafford from his standout role as Frankie Valli in Riverside’s acclaimed production of Jersey Boys earlier this year, and his talent for hitting those high notes remains an undeniable highlight of the show.

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‘Beautiful: The Carole King Musical’ to Grace Riverside Theater Stage for Seven Weeks

By Uriah Kiser

Published September 13, 2024 at 10:35AM | Updated October 26, 2024 at 4:41PM

Get ready to be transported through the life and music of one of the most influential songwriters of the 20th century. Beautiful: The Carole King Musical is set to take the stage at the Riverside Center for the Performing Arts starting Wednesday, September 18, 2024, for a seven-week run.

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Mystery, Murder, and Masterful Performances on Stage in ‘Murder on the Orient Express’

By Uriah Kiser

Published August 16, 2024 at 1:38PM | Updated October 26, 2024 at 4:42PM

Kevin Cleary, as Detective Hercule Poirot

The show at Riverside Center for the Performing Arts centers on Hercule Poirot, the famed Belgian detective, tasked with unraveling the mystery of an American tycoon found dead in his compartment. The victim was stabbed multiple times, and the door to his room was locked from the inside. With the train immobilized and no escape possible, Poirot must sift through the alibis and secrets of the eclectic group of passengers to find the killer before they strike again.

Kevin Cleary steps into the shoes of Detective Poirot, delivering a performance that aligns well with the iconic sleuth’s meticulous and observant nature. His portrayal anchors the show, guiding the audience through the intricate investigation. Andrea Kahane, as Mrs. Hubbard, adds a layer of charm and wit to the production. Her character injects humor into the otherwise tense atmosphere, making her a memorable presence on stage. Kathy Helenda’s depiction of Princess Dragonmiroff is also noteworthy, particularly in her interactions with Stephanie Wood, who plays Greta Ohlosson. The chemistry between these characters enhances the unfolding drama and keeps the audience engaged.

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Riverside Center Transitions to Non-Profit, Promises Big Changes Ahead

By Uriah Kiser

Published July 30, 2024 at 2:00PM | Updated August 4, 2024 at 8:49AM

Riverside Center for the Performing Arts Director Patrick A'Hearn speaks about the theater's transition to a non-profit corporation.

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Updated July 31 — The Riverside Center for the Performing Arts held a press conference on Monday, July 29, 2024, to announce its transition from a for-profit business to a non-profit entity. Theater Director Patrick A’Hearn made the announcement, outlined the theater’s new direction, and announced upcoming changes.

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Sally Struthers Returns: Riverside Center for Performing Arts presents ‘Love Letters’

By Uriah Kiser

Published July 24, 2024 at 10:45PM

Riverside Center for Performing Arts showcases “Love Letters,” featuring Sally Struthers and Patrick A’Hearn, for a limited two-week engagement ending August 4, 2024.

“Love Letters” centers on the lifelong correspondence between Andrew Makepeace Ladd III and Melissa Gardner, childhood friends from affluent backgrounds. Their story unfolds through exchanges of letters and postcards, revealing their personal journeys and romantic tensions spanning decades. The play navigates their separate paths through school, careers, and tumultuous personal lives, culminating in a poignant conclusion.

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Captivating ‘The Wizard of Oz’ Performance at Riverside Center Delights Audiences with Classic Charm and Modern Twists

By Uriah Kiser

Published June 12, 2024 at 2:03PM

[Photo: Suzanne Carr Rossi]

The Riverside Center for the Performing Arts presents “The Wizard of Oz,” a production that captures the essence of the beloved classic. The crowd responded enthusiastically, with applause reaching a peak when Toto took the stage. Sammy, a three-year-old Shih Tzu, plays him.

The immersive set brings the audience close to the action, especially those in the front row, making them feel part of the show. The design focuses on the farm scenes from the first and final acts, creating a familiar and engaging environment.

Features

Follow the Yellow Brick Road to Riverside Center for “The Wizard of Oz”

By Uriah Kiser

Published May 24, 2024 at 9:37AM

The Riverside Center for the Performing Arts is staging a production of “The Wizard of Oz.” This classic tale follows young Dorothy Gale as she travels from Kansas to the magical Land of Oz. Audiences will join Dorothy on her journey along the yellow brick road to the Emerald City in this stage adaptation of L. Frank Baum’s work, which includes the iconic score from the MGM film.

Performances are scheduled as follows: Wednesday matinees will have meal service from 11:30 a.m. to 12:45 p.m., with show-only arrivals at 12:45 p.m., and the performance starting at 1:30 p.m.. Thursday to Saturday evenings will have meal service and appetizers from 5:30 p.m. to 6:45 p.m., show-only arrivals at 6:45 p.m., and the performance starting at 7:30 p.m. Sunday matinees will feature meal service and appetizers from 1 p.m. to 2:15 p.m., show-only arrivals at 2:15 p.m., and the performance starting at 3 p.m.