Gerard Alessandrini's Forbidden Broadway is a long-running musical revue that has existed in various incarnations since opening Off-Broadway in 1982. The format is simple: change the lyrics to Broadway's most well-known show tunes to parody the biggest shows and the most popular stars. There is neither an underlying plot nor anything to tie one scene to the next. It is simply a series of hilarious comedy sketches performed to music. It is basically Broadway's version of "Weird Al" Yankovic - and the lyrics are just as witty. Like Yankovic with popular music, Alessandrini has adapted with Broadway and continues to write fresh parodies of the latest hits to critical - and audience - acclaim. Since its inception in 1982, Forbidden Broadway has been performed over nine thousand times, released thirteen albums, and won multiple Drama Desk Awards as well as a special Tony Award.
Peninsula Community Theatre is currently performing Forbidden Broadway's Greatest Hits. The most significant advantage to having over 30 years of material is the ability to appeal to multiple generations. This version of the show is a collaboration of some of Alessandrini's best parodies that spoof shows and personalities from the 1930s through the 2000s. It has scenes that should appeal to everyone, whether they prefer the "Golden Age of Broadway" or the long-running musicals of today.
The quality of PCT's production is... well, you'll have to see for yourself! The Theater Stud can't review it because he's in it!
The cast is talented and contains a nice mix of a dozen local veterans and newcomers. In alphabetical order, you will see Damiano Girona, Ingrid Holzer-Miller, Becky Krantz, Stephen Maney, Stephen Mason, myself, Lisa Parker LeBlanc, Joe Philipoom, Jennifer Thomas, Maddie Tisdel, Judy Triska, and Triston Westphal. Shannon Walker plays the piano for every scene and is on stage throughout the show as well.
The show is directed and choreographed by Dana Margulies Cauthen with music direction by Betsy Forrest. Jeffrey Corriveau doubles as Scenic Designer and Dramaturg. John Wilt, Light Design; Bill Hogge, Wigs; Jym Newton, Costumes Coordinator; Robert Kyle, Makeup; Sandy Brockman, Production Manager; Nina Martin, Stage Manager.
Final Thoughts: This is a well-written, clever show that has something for everyone. The running time is less than two hours, so you will have plenty of time to do more with your evening or drive back if you are coming from the south side. Laughs are guaranteed by director Dana Margulies Cauthen, who is willing to wager them against a glass of wine at intermission.
Jonathan McCormick
Performances run thru August 22nd, Friday – Saturday at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 2:30 p.m.
at the Peninsula Community Theatre,
10521 Warwick Boulevard, Newport News, Virginia 23601.
Tickets are $18 (with discounts available for seniors, students, and military) and can be obtained by
calling the box office at (757) 595-5728 or online at pctlive.org.
