MEMPHIS opening weekend showcases exceptional talent, racial struggles and emotional storytelling. Shows contunue September 25, 26, October 2, 3 @ 8pm and September 27, October 4 @ 2pm. Theatre reviewer, Nancy Sasso Janis, reccomends Memphis the musical, a show that “…examines race relations [of the 1950’s]. At times tense and even a bit uncomfortable, it is perfectly balanced with joyful dancing, lots of humor, one beautiful song after another, and in the case of this Landmark production at the Thomaston Opera House, a stellar cast giving it their all. For all of these reasons, this is a show not to be missed.”
Memphis is set in the places where rock and roll was born in the 1950s: the seedy nightclubs, radio stations and recording studios of the musically-rich Tennessee city. With an original score, it tells the fictional story of DJ Huey Calhoun, a good ole’ local boy with a passion for R&B music and Felicia Farrell, an up-and-coming black singer that he meets one fateful night on Beale Street. Despite the objections of their loved ones (Huey’s close-minded mama and Felicia’s cautious brother, a club owner), they embark on a dangerous affair. As their careers rise, the relationship is challenged by personal ambition and the pressures of an outside world unable to accept their love.
Leading the production of Memphis is Director & Choreographer Foster Evans Reese, a veteran director, actor, choreographer and LCT Board Member who most recently directed both the Adams Family at the Warner and Chicago here at TOH, both 5 star productions. Musical Direction provided by Aaron Bunel, a Thomaston High Music Educator and longtime MD for numerous TOH productions.
The Memphis cast is comprised of experienced and multi-ethnic adult actors and actresses. Playing the female lead of Felicia is Samantha Bass, both a TOH and stage musical newcommer. Samantha is a native of Tennessee and her southern roots and powerhouse vocals bring a perfect authenticity to the show. Daniel Beaudoin, most recently seen on the TOH stage as Sebastian in the Little Mermaid and Mary Sunshine in Chicago, plays the role of music enthusiast Huey Calhoun with attention to capturing both the southern mannerisims and soulful vocals. Keeping on eye on little sister Felicia is Delray, played by Mensah Robinson, also a TOH new-commer, who brings strong acting and vocals to the intimidating character. Playing the role of concerned mother Gladys Calhoun is Penelope Kokines Sanborn with talented vocals and a sense of humor. Additional featured chracters include Gator, played by Moses Beck, and Diwan Glass as Bobby, both talented vocalist that surprise the audience with standout solos. An ensemble of talented dancers & vocalists round out the multi-cultural cast.
Memphis the Musical runs September 25th — October 4th , 2015 with both matinees starting at 2pm and evening performances starting at 8pm. Tickets are $24, $20 for students and seniors and are available online at www.landmarkcommunitytheatre.org or by calling the Box Office 860-283-6250 Monday – Friday 1pm – 6pm & Saturday 1pm-4pm @ 158 Main Street Thomaston, CT 06790. All seats are reserved.