The timeless drama All My Sons by legendary playwright Arthur Miller returns to the stage in an Actors Theatre production at the ARTfactory in Manassas. First premiering in 1947, Miller’s powerful exploration of morality, ambition, and the consequences of personal decisions remains as compelling today as it was in the post-World War II era.

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The stage is set, the lights are shining, and the electrifying energy of Jesus Christ Superstar is ready to take over the Riverside Center for the Performing Arts. The iconic rock opera, which first captivated audiences in the early 1970s, officially opened on March 13, 2025, and will run through April 27.

In a recent interview with Potomac Local News Podcast, lead cast members Anthony Nuccio and Kylie Ernest shared their excitement about bringing this timeless production to the local stage. Nuccio, who plays Judas Iscariot, described Jesus Christ Superstar as a fully sung-through rock opera with no traditional dialogue breaks. “It’s an incredibly high-energy show that blends rock music with a powerful narrative,” he said. “Audiences can expect a visceral and emotional experience.”

Nuccio, whose character is known as both the betrayer and confidant of Jesus, emphasized the human complexity of Judas. “The show does a really good job of showing the nuance and humanity in all characters involved. It’s not just about history—it’s about emotion, relationships, and the political climate of the time.”

Kylie Ernest, who portrays Mary Magdalene, also highlighted the deep storytelling embedded in the musical. “Mary is often portrayed as a background character, but in our production, she’s an integral part of the action. She’s always present, reacting, and emotionally invested in what’s happening,” Ernest said. “It’s been so rewarding to bring her character to life in a way that allows the audience to feel her emotions and struggles.”

For those unfamiliar with Jesus Christ Superstar, the musical is entirely driven by its legendary rock score, composed by Andrew Lloyd Webber with lyrics by Tim Rice. Unlike traditional musicals, which incorporate spoken dialogue between songs, this production is non-stop music from start to finish. “Performing in a rock opera is an entirely different challenge,” Nuccio explained. “There’s no vocal break—you’re constantly singing, and that requires incredible stamina. But it also means the energy never dips.”

Ernest echoed that sentiment, noting how music helps convey the intensity of the story. “Even if audiences miss some of the lyrics or political nuances, the music itself carries the emotion. You feel the tension, the joy, the heartbreak—it’s all there in the sound.”

Since its debut in 1970, Jesus Christ Superstar has been both celebrated and controversial. Some traditional audiences initially objected to its portrayal of Jesus and its humanization of Judas. However, the show’s powerful storytelling and musical genius have made it a staple of modern theater. “The show allows us to see Jesus and Judas as real people with complex emotions,” Nuccio said. “That’s what makes it so compelling.”

Beyond its gripping performances, Jesus Christ Superstar at Riverside brings a fresh perspective to the classic rock opera, incorporating unique staging and deep character dynamics. “Our version places a strong emphasis on the relationship between Jesus, Judas, and Mary,” Ernest noted. “We explore their dynamic as a trio, which adds another emotional layer to the production.”

With its stunning visuals, passionate performances, and a score that continues to resonate with audiences decades after its debut, Jesus Christ Superstar at Riverside Center for the Performing Arts promises to be a must-see event this season.

The production runs through April 27. Tickets are available at riversidedt.com. Don’t miss the chance to experience this rock opera phenomenon live in Fredericksburg.

PRICES:

Adult Dinner & Show – $82 (plus applicable taxes)
Seniors (65+) Dinner & Show – $77 (plus applicable taxes)
Children (3-17) Dinner & Show – $70 (plus applicable taxes)
Military Discount (limit 4 tickets with ID) – $77 (plus applicable taxes)
Adult Show Only – $65
Seniors (65+) Show Only – $60
Children (3-17) Show Only – $55

PERFORMANCES:

Thurs. – Sat. Evenings
5:30pm-6:45pm: Meal Service & Appetizers
6:45pm: Show Only Arrival
7:30pm: Performance Start

Sunday Matinees
1:00pm-2:15pm: Meal Service & Appetizers
2:15pm: Show Only Arrival
3:00pm: Performance Start

The

Workhouse Arts Center is bringing Clyde’s by Lynn Nottage to the stage from March 8 to April 6, 2025. This heartwarming and comedic play follows a group of formerly incarcerated kitchen staff on a journey of redemption as they strive to craft the perfect sandwich under their tough boss’s rule. Performances will take place on Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m., and Sundays at 2 p.m., with a special understudy performance on March 29 and an audience talkback on March 30.

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Triune Entertainment is set to open its production of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s beloved musical Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat on February 21, 2025, at the Journey Theater in Vint Hill, an event for audiences of all ages.

A Fresh Take on a Classic Story

Directed by Matt Moore, this production breathes new life into the classic tale of Joseph, a dreamer whose jealous brothers sell him into slavery, only for him to rise to prominence in Egypt. With a vibrant score, unforgettable characters, and an inspiring message, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat has captivated audiences worldwide since its debut in 1968.

Triune Entertainment’s rendition boasts an all-star cast, with professional performer Shakil Azizi starring as Joseph. Azizi’s recent credits include Man 1 in Songs for a New World and Aldolpho in The Drowsy Chaperone at Workhouse Art Center. Other notable roles in the Northern Virginia theatre scene include Rooster in Annie (Little Theatre of Alexandria), Hot-Blades Harry in Urinetown (Workhouse Art Center), and Henrik in A Little Night Music (Reston Community Players). Azizi also performed internationally in Paw Patrol Live! Race to the Rescue.

Playing the Narrator is award-winning vocalist Katy Benko Miner, a two-time World Champion Vocalist at the World Championship of Performing Arts and a two-time WAMMIE Award Winner. Her resume includes sharing the stage with country music icons Brad Paisley, Glen Campbell, Trace Adkins, and Kenny Rogers. She has performed the National Anthem for major sports teams such as the Baltimore Orioles, Washington Nationals, Washington Capitals, and Washington Commanders. Recently, she starred as Mrs. Banks in Mary Poppins (Allegro Community Players) and Mrs. Potts in Beauty and the Beast (Hope Theater). Benko Miner is also a respected theatre and choral teacher at Wakefield School in The Plains, Virginia.

A Stellar Supporting Cast and Creative Team

The production features an ensemble of actors, including Peter Marsh as Pharaoh, Scott Pierce as Potiphar, Dawn Gaynor as Potiphar’s Wife, and Paul Correll as Jacob. The show’s performances will be complemented by high-impact choreography from Christie Dubansky and musical direction by Cate Murray.

Audiences can expect to be enchanted by show-stopping numbers such as “Any Dream Will Do,” “Close Every Door,” and “Go, Go, Go Joseph.” With innovative staging and high-energy performances, this production is sure to keep theatergoers on the edge of their seats.

Following its successful runs of Best Christmas Pageant Ever: The Musical, the world premiere of Peter Filichia’s Larry the Big-Time Broadway Producer, and Jason Robert Brown’s Songs for a New World, Triune Entertainment continues to provide opportunities for performers and creatives to showcase their talents in innovative ways.

Show Dates and Ticket Information

Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat will run for three weekends from February 21 through March 9, 2025, at the Journey Theater in Vint Hill, VA. Tickets are available now and can be purchased at triuneentertainment.com/joseph.

Fredericksburg’s Riverside Center for the Performing Arts has welcomed a new force in its kitchen: Chef Stefan Boutchyard. With a rich culinary background spanning Fredericksburg, Culpeper, and high-profile catering events—including the inauguration of President Donald Trump—Boutchyard is breathing new life into the dinner theater’s menu.

A Culinary Journey to Riverside

Boutchyard’s journey to Riverside was as unexpected as it was serendipitous. “I was a chef in Culpeper working at a bistro, and I wasn’t making a whole lot, but I was sustaining myself,” he said. Then, a call from a friend, local restaurateur Daniel Orofino, founder of Fredericksburg’s Orofino Restaurant, set the stage for a major career shift. “Daniel told me, ‘I don’t know if it’ll be a job, but I want you to call my friend Patrick,’” referring to Riverside’s CEO, Patrick A’Hearn.

After meeting with Ahern, the opportunity became clear. “They wanted to move forward, felt a little stagnant where they were at,” Boutchyard explained. “So they offered me a position, and here I am. I really jumped headfirst into the deep end—on purpose.”

Reinventing the Menu

Boutchyard wasted no time infusing his personal touch into Riverside’s offerings, beginning with the menu for Heartbreak Hotel, an Elvis Presley-inspired musical on stage now. “I know a little about Elvis, so I said, ‘Let’s look at his early years—Tupelo, Nashville, and Vegas.’ That’s how the Viva Las Vegas shrimp cocktail made its way onto the menu.”

Southern flavors took center stage. “I wanted to do a nod to his roots, so we brought in shrimp and grits and fried chicken. But I thought, ‘Let’s do chicken and waffles—with cornbread waffles.’ Then we added a smoked maple syrup with Tabasco to give it a little different flavor.”

Boutchyard’s creativity doesn’t stop at entrées. Even a simple veggie pastry has meaning: “I had a dream about it. The marinara sauce I make for it is my little homage to Danilo Orofino—it’s not his recipe, but it’s a thank-you to him for introducing me to Riverside.”

The Future of Food at Riverside

With Riverside’s transition to a nonprofit, discussions about reimagining the theater space have been ongoing. Some plans suggest shifting to a more traditional theater seating arrangement and moving food service to a separate banquet area.

But Boutchyard is clear on one thing: “Food is not leaving Riverside. Food will always be a part of Riverside in some form.” Whether through a restaurant model or an event-style format, he insists, “There will always be some kind of culinary experience here.”

He’s already looking ahead to Jesus Christ Superstar, featuring Mediterranean-inspired dishes starting March 12, 2025. “We’re doing a saffron yogurt chicken kebab, roasted garlic Israeli couscous, and grilled curried zucchini with sun-dried tomatoes,” he revealed. “And we’re partnering with Sweet Reasons in Spotsylvania for a pistachio chocolate cheesecake that is absolutely amazing.”

“Super Fun Time” Sushi Class

Beyond the dinner theater experience, Boutchyard is launching an interactive culinary event: Super Fun Time Sushi Class. “It’s part cooking lesson, part comedy act,” he said. Drawing from his experience teaching sushi classes in Atlanta, he aims to offer a relaxed, entertaining introduction to sushi-making. “It’s a great way to introduce new people to Riverside. Maybe they’re not ready to commit to a full show, but they can come for a fun night, learn something, and have a great time.”

The hour-long class will show foodies how to make and and eat three types of sushi rolls. The class starts at 6 p.m. Monday, February 17, 2025. Tickets are $40 each.

As Riverside enters its next chapter, Boutchyard is determined to keep the flavors fresh and the experience unforgettable. “I want my food to complement the show,” he said. “I’m here to make Riverside something really special.”

Don’t miss out on the exciting “Seussical Jr.” performance at Riverside Center for the Performing Arts.

This limited-run show features the classic Dr. Seuss story of Horton the Elephant and his journey to protect the Whos and an egg left in his care. The show runs every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday from February 4 to March 1, 2025, with an additional Saturday show on March 1. Tickets are just $20 per person, and children under three are free.

The Children’s Theatre returns with an amazing performance for all ages! You can even bring your own lunch to enjoy before the show on Tuesday and Thursday performances. Group tickets are available for Tuesday and Thursday shows by calling 540-479-1356, while Saturday matinees can be purchased online or by calling 540-370-4300.

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Step into the life of the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll with Riverside Theater’s electrifying production of “Heartbreak Hotel.” Featuring Elliott Litherland as “Old Elvis” and Luke Purcell as “Teen Elvis,” this high-energy show will have you singing, dancing, and cheering all night long.

In this episode, we sit down with the show’s stars to hear about their roles, what drew them to this production, and how they’re bringing Elvis Presley to life on stage. They share everything from personal connections to Elvis’s thrill of performing in this iconic musical!

Don’t miss out on this crowd-pleasing musical event, captivating audiences and warming hearts this winter.

Tickets & Info: riversidedt.com

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This winter, the Riverside Center for the Performing Arts is rockin’ with the sounds of Elvis Presley as the high-energy bio-musical Heartbreak Hotel takes the stage.

Created by the visionary behind the Tony Award-winning Million Dollar Quartet, the production delves into the life of the King of Rock and Roll, exploring his rise to stardom and the challenges that shaped his iconic legacy.

Featuring over 40 of Elvis’ greatest hits, including “That’s All Right,” “Hound Dog,” “Burning Love,” and “Jailhouse Rock,” the show blends electrifying performances with storytelling that gives audiences a closer look at the man behind the music. Heartbreak Hotel presents Elvis at pivotal moments in his life, guided by his younger self, in a journey that reveals the struggles and triumphs that made him a legend.

Actors Step Into the King’s Blue Suede Shoes

In a recent interview, Elliot Litherland, who portrays the older Elvis Presley, and Luke Purcell, playing teen Elvis, opened up about their unique experiences bringing the King of Rock and Roll to life on the Riverside Center stage.

“For me, playing Elvis is both an honor and a challenge,” said Litherland, who is no stranger to the role, having performed as Elvis in two previous productions. “Elvis’ music speaks for itself, but our goal is to show the human side of this icon. The show brings out both the joy and the tragedy of Elvis’ life, and we hope audiences leave with a deeper understanding of who he was.”

Luke Purcell, a 15-year-old high school student from Louisa County, shared how his lifelong admiration for Elvis brought him to the production. “Elvis has always been a big part of my life, but it wasn’t until I saw the 2022 biopic Elvis that I truly fell in love with his music and story,” said Purcell. “When I heard Riverside was putting on Heartbreak Hotel, I knew I had to audition. It’s been my dream to play Elvis, and doing so alongside such a talented cast is a dream come true.”

Litherland was quick to praise his younger counterpart, revealing how Purcell’s audition impressed the production team so much that they created a special role for him. “Luke is only 15, but his talent is incredible. He knocked everyone’s socks off during auditions. It’s amazing to see someone so young bring such depth and energy to this role,” said Litherland. “Honestly, when Luke leaves the stage, audiences can take or leave me. He’s the real star.”

The pair also discussed the challenges of portraying a figure as iconic as Elvis Presley. “It’s always nerve-wracking to step on stage as Elvis because everyone has their own vision of who he was,” said Purcell. “For me, it’s important to avoid being a caricature. Elvis was a real person with incredible talent and struggles, and I want to honor that.”

Litherland echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of balance in their performances. “What sets Heartbreak Hotel apart is its focus on storytelling. It’s not just a concert of Elvis’ hits—it’s a deep dive into his life, the highs and lows, and the humanity behind the legend,” he explained. “The show also touches on the struggles Elvis faced, from the pressures of fame to his relationships with those around him.”

Both actors credited the Riverside production team for creating a supportive and collaborative environment. “This cast feels like a family,” said Purcell. “Everyone, from the directors to the musicians, has been amazing to work with. It makes all the difference when you’re telling such a powerful story.”

The actors also reflected on the broader impact of Elvis’ music and legacy. “There’s a reason his music still resonates today,” said Litherland. “Even for those of us too young to have lived during his heyday, his influence is undeniable. It’s an honor to carry that torch, even if just for a little while.”

Performances and Ticket Information

Heartbreak Hotel runs at the Riverside Center through March 2, 2025, offering audiences a vibrant blend of live music, dance, and storytelling. The schedule includes matinees and evening performances to suit every schedule.

• Wednesday Matinees:
  Meal Service: 11:30 AM – 12:45 PM
  Show-Only Arrival: 12:45 PM
  Performance Start: 1:30 PM
• Thursday – Saturday Evenings:
  Meal Service: 5:30 PM – 6:45 PM
  Show-Only Arrival: 6:45 PM
  Performance Start: 7:30 PM
• Sunday Matinees:
  Meal Service: 1:00 PM – 2:15 PM
  Show-Only Arrival: 2:15 PM
  Performance Start: 3:00 PM

Ticket Prices:

• Dinner & Show: Adults $82, Seniors $77, Children $70
• Show Only: Adults $65, Seniors $60, Children $55
• Military Discount: $77 (limit 4 tickets)
• RUSH Tickets: $35 (same-day purchase, limited availability)

Triune Entertainment is producing Best Christmas Pageant Ever: The Musical at Journey Theater in Vint Hill, Virginia, with performances on December 20, 21, 22, 27, 28, and 29. The musical, based on Barbara Robinson’s beloved story, features orchestrations by Malcolm Hillgartner and a book by Jahnna Beecham. It tells a heartwarming story of grace, kindness, and community, becoming a holiday classic.

More in a press release:

Triune Entertainment announces the upcoming production of Best Christmas Pageant Ever: the Musical at the Journey Theater in Vint Hill, Virginia. The beloved story is now a musical that will captivate audiences with its heartfelt message.

Best Christmas Pageant Ever: The Musical is a story of unexpected grace, kindness, and loving thy neighbor. The musical is based on the story by Barbara Robinson with orchestrations by Malcolm Hillgartner and book by Jahnna Beecham. It has become a perennial favorite of the holiday season and will be released as a full length feature film this holiday season starring Judy Greer and Pete Holme and directed by Dallas Jenkins.

For this local production, Triune Entertainment’s Founder Matt Moore assembled a team of professionals from Prince William County and beyond. “We are excited to bring ‘Best Christmas Pageant Ever’ to the community this holiday season, and I know it will leave a lasting impression on our audiences.”

The team is led by director Renée De Ponte, a local professional with many credits from the stage and screen. She is thrilled for the opportunity to bring this hilarious show to life: “I have always wanted to direct a show with lots of families, and this was the perfect story to do that! I love how much heart there is in the script and our cast and crew are working so well together to put on this really beautiful show.”

The Wagner and Mills families are two examples of De Ponte’s vision. Rebeccah and Steven Wagner play the lead roles of Grace and Bob with four of their five children also in the cast: Elsie, Jeremiah, Nora, and Peter while the youngest Wagner Philip watches his bigger siblings in rehearsals. Rebeccah shared that, “this is one of our favorite stories and it’s really special to get to be a part of this production. Our life can get a little crazy this time of year and we’re really thankful we get to do this show together as a family!”

Rebeccah plays Grace, the reluctant director of the Christmas Pageant who leads her family and her community on a journey of love, compassion, and grace. Rebeccah loves helping kids learn to sing and her most recent theatre credits include serving as the Music Director for Sound of Music and Newsies as well as the Assistant Music Director for Disney’s Little Mermaid. Her husband Steve is returning to the stage after being away for several decades. He’s excited to help bring to the stage the story from the best book ever written about Christmas pageants as he reprises his favorite roles of the past 17 years: husband and dad.

Elsie Wagner plays Betty and is a junior and her favorite past roles include Katherine Plumber in Newsies, Doris in Miracle on 34th Street, Mersister in Disney’s Little Mermaid, and the Assistant Director for Pinnochio. Her sister Nora is a freshman and plays the Reverand’s Assistant and the Nurse to the crabby Helen Armstrong. Her favorite past roles include Brigitta von Trapp in The Sound of Music, the White Witch in The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe, and Tommy Boy in Newsies.

Jeremiah is excited to play brother Ollie Herdman with his real-life brother Peter playing Leroy Herdman. Jeremiah is a 5th grader who recently played the role of Pinocchio in the Torch Drama club Embers production. Peter is 13 years old and recently played Les in Newsies and Geppetto in Pinocchio. When not onstage, both boys enjoy playing sports including soccer, baseball, and swimming.

Mother daughter duo Laura and Susan Mills portray the roles of Helen Armstrong and Gladys Herdman. Susan is 11 years old and is excited to play the ferocious and precocious Herdman kid. Her favorite past roles include Hei Hei in Disney’s Moana Jr, Coral in Finding Nemo, Jr, and a Munchkin Teacher in Wizard of Oz with Pied Piper Theatre.

Laura Mills works for Prince William County Public Schools and volunteers with many local schools and arts organizations, including Gainesville Community Choir where she serves as a Board Member. She most recently played Katherine Blake in Upper Room Theatre Ministry’s Freaky Friday and Doralee in Prince William Little Theatre’s 9 to 5 the Musical. Although Laura and Susan have many previous stage credits, this will be their first production together.

Laura is excited to have this experience with her daughter: “There’s something really special about sharing a passion with your child and getting the opportunity to go through the same rehearsal process and performing together. I’m really glad whenever there are shows like this where we can have fun together and tell important stories like this one!”

Best Christmas Pageant Ever: The Musical comes on the heels of Triune’s critically acclaimed world premier of Peter Filichia’s Larry the Big-Time Broadway Producer and Jason Robert Brown’s Songs for a New World. Triune is an independent, non-Equity production company dedicated to providing artists with opportunities to direct and perform in exciting and original ways.

Triune’s mission is to create exceptional entertainment experiences while being respectful to its audiences and participants, and to provide opportunity and access to the best in live production, publishing, training and education, and beyond. Triune Entertainment’s Best Christmas Pageant Ever: the Musical has six performances onDecember 20, 21, 22, 27, 28, and 29 at Journey Church in Vint Hill For more information and to purchase tickets, visit triuneentertainment.com/bcpe