Lady Gaga Saves the Music

Here one of our bloggers, Jase Wingate, stars as Lady Gaga as a spokesperson for VH1's Save the Music Campaign. Enjoy!

With stage props in hand, Jase, Claire, and Kelsey delve into the world of theater! Follow them as they talk about current and future projects on the stages of Broadway.

Brush Up on Stage Makeup

Broadway is known around the world for its spectacular performances- the bright lights, the enormous sets, and the talented actors. And perhaps one of the most noticeable and impressive elements Broadway- or almost any theatre for that matter- is the stage makeup. While there are some musicals in which actors are dressed in plain clothes and what appears to be very little makeup, there is still an extensive amount of work that goes into the planning of such a costume. More often, viewers come to shows expecting to be amazed by the outlandish costumes and dazzling makeup. But what inspires the colorful makeup? And how can this one element help bring a show from good to great?

Certainly anyone who has been in any type of performance has had a “brush” with stage makeup. What looks like clown makeup at a normal distance is meant to look just right to every audience member, including that person sitting in the back row. There are some essential techniques every performer should know. For the average performer, it is not always necessary to buy a ton of professional-grade makeup. Instead, keep a makeup bag stocked with a few trusty essentials, including a makeup brushes, brown and black eyeliner pencils, and a few different shades of blush, eyeshadow, and lipstick. It is also useful to have some type of cotton swabs and makeup remover. To apply basic stage makeup, start with a simple foundation (cake foundation is usually best) and continue to apply as if applying everyday makeup, only more of it. To create shadows and highlights on the face, purchase a basic highlighter and apply to the contours of the face. The brightly colored eye makeup seen on Broadway is done using professional makeup products, which can be found and purchased fairly easily. One thing is for sure: with a little practice and a few makeup tools, anyone can create a look worthy of the stage.

For more information on stage makeup products and techniques, check out this site:

http://www.essortment.com/lifestyle/applystagemake_szgw.htm

While many people experience the thrill of Broadway every year, what these audiences might not realize is just how much work goes into each performance. While there are many aspects to Broadway-the acting, costumes, and set-one of the most important factors is the music that makes musical theatre what it is. Many actors and actresses spend years perfecting their voices, training for the nerve-wracking audition, and acquiring the strength that is required of performances that span over at least an hour. With all this in mind, we decided to uncover exactly what is put into training for a Broadway performance, or any musical theatre performance for that matter.

This week, we turned to Mr. Keith Walker, a native of south Georgia, who teaches music at Darton College and offers private voice lessons for students and aspiring actors. Walker always knew he wanted to be involved in the arts; however, his parents discouraged him from choosing such an unpredictable career and instead encouraged him to major in chemistry. While Walker gave the medical field a try, he always felt as though music was calling, or rather, singing, his name, "I didn't start with music right out, so following it often gives me a better appreciation for what I do. And I get paid for it!" Walker felt his calling was to share his love for music with others and inspire in them the same passion he feels for musical theatre. Walker says "Seeing a student 'get it' or having a break through where things fall into place and working is very exciting." So Walker began his own business, teaching everyone from young passionate students to aspirant Broadway hopefuls the art that is music.

Walker teaches his students the basics every singer should know, but also makes sure to incorporate fun and helpful techniques that will give them a leg up in auditions and performances. For instance, Walker begins each lesson with "breath support and vowel placement practice" and encourages his students to keep practicing and working hard. Walker believes there are some essentials to warming up and preparing an actor’s voice, which he instills in his students.

While Walker’s passion for teaching does stem from his own passion for music, he also attributes this passion to his own Broadway aspirations. He reflects "Going to New York for auditions gave me different perspectives of the business. Also, it helped me to understand more clearly the work and dedication it takes to make it on Broadway." Using his own experiences, Walker prepares each student for every experience they might face-from the panic of stage fright every actor faces upon approaching the stage to avoiding the songs that every casting agent has already heard.

Walker believes "talent will only get you so far", a sentiment most actors and actresses would agree with. While getting a lead on Broadway may seem a daunting task, its one that can be better achieved with the help of voice lessons and practice. Walker is a firm believer in "following dreams but not inflating expectations" for success on the stage.

Q & A With Amy Baker

This week, we decided to interview a local high school Thespian, Amy Baker. A sophomore at Deerfield-Windsor high school, Amy has a lot of experience with theatre performance. She has performed in many DWS productions, such as Wizard of Oz, Fiddler on the Roof, and Cinderella. We sat down with Amy to discuss musical theatre and her own future career. 

As told to Jase Wingate

Jase Wingate: So Amy, when did you first become interested in musical theatre/theatre?

Amy Baker: When I was six, I went to the Fox Theater, in Atlanta, GA, and saw Phantom of the Opera, ever since I’ve loved it.

JW: What, do you feel, is your strong point in acting?

AB: I feel my strength is comedic interpretation.

JW: Taking that into consideration, how will this affect your future?

AB: I’ll most likely get comedic roles, but I’m going to work hard to get more dramatic roles.

JW: Okay, when do you hope to make your big break?

AB: As soon as I can!

JW: Let's talk a minute about Deerfield-Windsor's theatre program. How would you change our current theatre program?

AB: I would like for us to gain funds for an auditorium, pay for voice lessons, and offer Chorus as a course at Deerfield.

JW: Looking to the future of DWS theatre, what would happen if the theatre program had more revenue? How do you think they should spend it?

AB: The program would become a lot more grandiose and I believe some money should be put towards the building of a theater.

JW: In your opinion, what is the next step for DWS theatre- how can it grow and expand?

AB: With Mr. Kelly, we will be able to grow and expand on the influence we have over the school, and hopefully we can gain more publicity.

JW: How long have you been interested in the performing arts?

AB: I have been interested in the arts since I was six.

JW: Do you think you’ll want to continue with the performing arts once you leave high school? If so, what would you do?

AB: Yes, I plan to be on Broadway. Specifically, I would love to be in Phantom of the Opera.

JW: What do you think of the musical Little Women versus the adaption the school is doing for the One Act Play?

AB: Ours is better because it is us doing it!

"I Want to Be a Part of It, New York, New York!"

Planning a trip to New York can be daunting in and of itself, much less trying to plan a night of Broadway theatre too. However, there are a few easy tips to remember that could save tremendous time (and money!) when planning a visit to the Big Apple. First, theatre goers must consider what they want to get out of their theatre experience. For instance, a school theatre club might want to see a wide variety of musicals- especially the "classics"- such as West Side Story and Phantom of the Opera. While a mother and daughter might want to see a more "girly" musical, such as Legally Blonde. There are usually a wide variety of shows to choose from, usually 40 or more, according to Broadway Bound Trip Planners.


While this may seem very overwhelming at first, it is usually very easy to come across these tickets, whether it be online or actually in New York. In addition, if a show is sold out there is usually more than one way to still find a ticket-it may mean paying a ton or waiting in lines, but hey that's showbiz!

Also, it is important to plan ahead in regards to accommodations and eating, taking into account show times and curtain calls. According to Jase Wingate, avid musical expert, "the most important detail of a trip to Broadway is the transportation" because it can get very crowded, especially on an opening night.

Now check out these great websites essential to the planning of every Broadway trip:

http://www.bbtripplanners.com/ [A favorite for advice and tips]

http://ppc.broadway.com/tickets/landing.aspx/broadway?sicontent=0&sicreative=3402029455&siclientid=2885&sitrackingid=62844533

[One of the best compiled lists of current Broadway musicals]

http://www.nytheatre.com/ [Helpful in choosing the perfect show]

http://intransit.blogs.nytimes.com/2009/08/31/travel-deals-broadway-tickets-for-less/
[A blog dedicated to finding cheap tickets for Broadway shows]

- Producer Kelsey

* P.S. Check this out! Even President Obama has made a recent visit to Broadway! *

Hairspray to Hairspray: The Movie Musical Adaptation

Strike a pose, smile, and convey all possible emotions in five seconds. These are all elements found within an actor on Broadway's repertoire. In a musical, an individual's actions must be big and loud to gain the watcher's attention and keep it. A movie adaptation of a musical is much different. In a movie, the actor does not have to be as loud and open as, say, a Broadway actor, but must occupy a much smaller area than on a stage. In addition, so many musical numbers are dropped because they do not meet strict time constraints to occupy two hours. The musical numbers usually kept are the ones that are the most popular with the public; the reprises of songs are usually dropped for the movie.

Hairspray is one of the most recent movie musical adaptations. According to fellow blogger, Kelsey Jones, "I really like the movie because it combines so many elements of a good musical and has really neat costumes." Everyone's opinion varies on the musical, though. For example, fellow blogger Mr. Bessily, feels that Hairspray the movie was a terrible adaptation of the musical and that "Hairspray has lost its hold." Also, the success of every art depends on interpretation; how the character is portrayed, how the character sings, and the personality of the actor; Hairspray is no different. Just in the opening number, "Good Morning Baltimore" alone, a distinct difference can be seen between the "musical' Tracy's and the "movie" Tracy's voices. Overall, musical movie adaptations are fun and definitely worth watching during this economical struggle. Thank you movie industries and Broadway, for making our lives a little better through musicals.

Exit Stage Left,

Leading Man Jase

Astonishing!

Deerfield Windsor School is known for its wide variety of extracurricular activities and the talented students who participate in each.  From athletics to clubs, students can be found doing just about anything.  Perhaps one of the most well-known and enjoyed groups is the performing arts.  Each year, large audiences anxiously await the spring musical.  However, a major and less publicized event for the Thespians each year is the One Act Play.  
     

     For those unfamiliar with the Deerfield Windsor performing arts, the One Act Play is a performing arts competition in which schools statewide perform the play of their choice and hope to win best overall.  The play consists (as its name implies) of a one act play that fits in a one hour time frame.  Schools first compete in a regional competition, and the two best from region move on to the state competition.  This year, DWS has chosen the play Little Women.  This play tells the story of the four March sisters: Amy, Beth, Jo, and Meg, as well as their mother, Marmee.  It follows their struggles and challenges as they grow up to become "little women".  The DWS version features Macy Williams as Amy, Amy Baker as Beth, Emily Stone as Jo, Claire Allen as Meg, Caroline Davis as Marmee, and Jase Wingate as Laurie, Jo's love interest in the story.  

      One of the most interesting aspects about this year's production of Little Women is that it is a musical.  It features songs such as "Astonishing", "Five Forever", and "Take a Chance on Me".  Students from DWS have the opportunity to showcase their singing talents statewide.  Not only does the show include music, but also a heartfelt story full of love, sisterhood, and a little bit of sword fighting.  Directed by Lindsey Stewart and Dianne Giddens, this will surely be a show to see.  Stewart comments, "The chemistry between this year's cast is great.  I think we have a really good chance of placing this year and will put on a great show."  Fortunately for the students, the play will be performed for the DWS high school students prior to the state competition.

     This year's One Act Play is guaranteed to succeed.  It showcases DWS's diverse, talented student body and allows students to use their natural talents.  DWS certainly fosters in its students a passion for the theatre and performing arts at a young age.  Bottle Tree Productions Blog does an excellent job of explaining the importance of community to actors and actresses, so come out and support the performing arts!  Break a leg, cast and crew!

Exit Stage Right,

Claire (Meg)

Phantom of the Opera

Last week our blogger/stage crew member Jase focused on a musical many people may not have heard of before. But this week, we're going back to more of the classic stage. Phantom of the Opera is perhaps one of the most well-known and interesting stories to ever grace a Broadway stage. One lesser known fact about this musical is that it was originally a French novel, later adapted to the stage, written by Gaston Leroux and published in 1909. Surprisingly, the book was considerably unpopular when it was first published, as compared to the popularity of the Broadway version. Subsequently, when most people hear Phantom of the Opera, they think of Andrew Lloyd Webber's 1986 musical production.
This famous tale tells the story of Christine, a young girl who is given a part in the chorus of the Paris Opera. The story follows Christine's relationship with Erik, a disfigured man living in the cellars of the opera. Throughout the story, the "Phantom" remains a mysterious character, occasionally causing chaos at the opera. The story appeals to many because it incorporates love, passion, suspense, mystery, and music all into one story. Currently, the play features Ramin Karimloo as Erik the "Phantom", Gina Beck as Christine, and Simon Bailey as Raoul (Erik's competition for Christine's heart).
Aside from the fact that Phantom of the Opera is one of the most compelling and mysterious tales, one might ask why the story has not only lasted through the years but has taken many different forms. The story encapsulates a classic love story- beautiful girl, two men competeing for her heart, a sort of "good versus evil" complex. As well as books and musicals, Phantom of the Opera has also been seen on the big screen. The stage and cinema are able to make Leroux's work come to life with music and fantastic visual images. While it is a very distinct story, it seems to be versatile in the manner it is presented, which may explain why it has lasted through the years.

Exit Stage Right,
Director Claire

"I'm Alive"

Ever have the sensation you were going crazy? Well, the main character of Next to Normal is there with you. Next to Normal is a Broadway show that debuted in April 2009. It tells the story of Diana Goodman who is a woman living with bipolar disorder. Along with her husband and daughter, she tries to cope with the memory of her dead son and live a normal life. This compelling show is littered with an amazing score of music and leaves the viewer yearning for more. The songs include favorites such as "Superboy and the Invisible Girl", "I'm Alive", "I am the One", and "You Don't Know".

This beautiful rock opera is directed by Michael Greif, the same man who directed the musical Rent. Many of the elements found in Rent are seen in Next to Normal, especially the dancing. Nonetheless, Greif has sent another exuberant musical to the streets of Broadway. This musical contains an all star cast including: Alice Ripley as Diana Goodman, Aaron Tveit as Gabriel Goodman, J. Robert Spencer as Dan Goodman, and Jennifer Damiano as Natalie Goodman.

Compared to other musicals, Next to Normal discusses a very touch subject, bipolar disorder. It is not unexpected, though, because Greif covered the topic of AIDS in his last musical. Next to Normal also has a very intricate set of a two story house onstage which sets the tone and expresses the musical to its full potential. It is definitely a show to see and hopefully you will get the chance to see it soon.

Thanks for the read. Hope to see you back stage again soon!

Exit Stage Left,

Leading Man Jase

Welcome!

Welcome to Behind the Curtain!

We're so glad you came by to visit us. While you're here, check out our first blog post. Looking to learn more about musical theatre and the performing arts? Our purpose is to inform people about some of the latest happenings in the theatre world. Take a look around our site and our blogroll. And be sure to participate in our poll this week! Well, stay classy! (Exit stage left)

Love,

Kelsey, Claire, and Jase