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The John W. Engeman Theater

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'Frozen Jr.' continues at the Engeman through Photo courtesy of The John W. Engeman Theater
Catch a performance of 'Frozen Jr.' at the Engeman Theater this weekend. The show runs through March 3. Photo courtesy of The John W. Engeman Theater
Mia Ponticelli as Elsa in a scene from the show. Photo courtesy of The John W. Engeman Theater

By Julianne Mosher

The John W. Engeman Theater’s latest production of Frozen Jr. will give you chills.

Directed and choreographed by Keith Jones, costumes and wigs by Laura McGauley, and production/set design by Orion Forte, you’ll be taken into a winter wonderland as soon as you step into the Northport-based theater. With a solid cast of children doing Broadway-level work, the production showcases an extremely talented cast who clearly love what they do and are having a blast. 

The story follows two inseparable sisters who are princesses in the kingdom of Arendelle. The eldest, Elsa (Mia Ponticelli), was born with magical powers that allow her to create ice and snow. But as a young child, she doesn’t know how to control her powers and while playing and building a snowman with her sister, Anna (Gabby Blum), she accidentally hurts her. 

While Anna is healed by the mysterious Hidden Folk (spiritual forest people), their parents decide it would be best to protect Anna by keeping the two apart.

Anna has no memory of the accident and does not understand why her sister avoids her, locked away in her room wearing her silk gloves. A few years later, while the parents are lost at sea, Elsa continues to stay away, keeping her secret hidden from her sister and the outside world, afraid to harm another person again.

Ten years have passed and it is time for Elsa to become Queen, but on coronation day her magic unintentionally brings an eternal winter to the kingdom. Accused of sorcery by Anna’s fiancé, Hans (Liam Polani), she flees into the mountains to hide. Anna enlists the help of Kristoff (Quinn Oliver Lessing) the icemaker to help her find her sister and free Arendelle from the spell. This is a true story of love and acceptance that will thaw the coldest of hearts.

Blum and Ponticelli’s parts are not easy. Originally played in the movie by Kristen Bell and Broadway legend Idina Menzel, the songs require a lot of training and breathwork — both of which these young starlets have. 

But we can’t forget two supporting characters who bring a lot of laughs — Sven, (Brady Goldman and Liam Von Schmidt, interchangeably), and the lovable Olaf (Michael Deaner and Luca Silva) who loves warm hugs. 

In the sold-out audience during the Sunday, Jan. 28 performance, young ticket holders dressed head to toe in their favorite Frozen attire — many Elsa’s, Anna’s and even an Olaf. That being said, when Elsa does a quick change at the end of “Let It Go” into her signature sparkling blue gown, the audience gasped and applauded. 

The set is minimal, but is welcomed by animated projections on a screen towards the back of the stage depicting different locations in the Kingdom of Arendelle including the inside and outside of the castle, the snowy mountains and Elsa’s ice castle. You might even see some real-life snow fall. 

When the show is over, a great photo opportunity is available in the lobby with the entire cast of the show. The cast will even sign autographs.

Overall, this family-friendly production tells the tale of love, loss, friendship and family, with plenty of laughs in between. Don’t miss out. 

Frozen Jr. will run until March 3. Tickets are $20 and can be purchased by calling 631-261-2900, going online at www.engemantheater.com, or by visiting the Engeman Theater Box Office at 250 Main Street in Northport.

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Danny Bernardy, Jason SweetTooth Williams, Gina Naomi Baez and Lauren Weinberg in a scene from 'I Love You. You're Perfect, Now Change'. Photo courtesy of The John W. Engeman Theater
(Top) Danny Bernardy, Lauren Weinberg, (Bottom) Jason SweetTooth Williams, Gina Naomi Baez in a scene from 'I Love You, You're Perfect, Now Change'. Photo courtesy of The John W. Engeman Theater
Gina Naomi Baez, Jason SweetTooth Williams, Danny Bernardy and Lauren Weinberg in a scene from 'I Love You, You're Perfect, Now Change'. Photo courtesy of The John W. Engeman Theater
Gina Naomi Baez in a scene from 'I Love You, You're Perfect, Now Change'. Photo courtesy of The John W. Engeman Theater
Lauren Weinberg and Matt DaSilva in a scene from 'I Love You, You're Perfect, Now Change'. Photo courtesy of The John W. Engeman Theater
Matt DaSilva and Gina Naomi Baez in a scene from 'I Love You, You're Perfect, Now Change'. Photo courtesy of The John W. Engeman Theater
Jason SweetTooth Williams and Lauren Weinberg in a scene from 'I Love You, You're Perfect, Now Change'. Photo courtesy of The John W. Engeman Theater
Gina Naomi Baez and Danny Bernardy in a scene from 'I Love You, You're Perfect, Now Change'. Photo courtesy of The John W. Engeman Theater
Danny Bernardy in a scene from 'I Love You, You're Perfect, Now Change'. Photo courtesy of The John W. Engeman Theater
Gina Naomi Baez and Danny Bernardy in a scene from 'I Love You, You're Perfect, Now Change'. Photo courtesy of The John W. Engeman Theater
Jason SweetTooth Williams and Danny Bernardy in a scene from 'I Love You, You're Perfect, Now Change'. Photo courtesy of The John W. Engeman Theater
The most relatable comedy you will ever see

By Julianne Mosher

The John W. Engeman Theater’s latest produce is perfect… and it should definitely not change.

During Saturday, Jan. 20’s performance of I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change, the Northport-based theater was full of nonstop laughs thanks to the four-piece ensemble on stage. 

Starring Gina Naomi Baez and Lauren Weinberg as the two main women and Danny Bernardy and Jason SweetTooth Williams as the two men, this witty musical tackles modern love in all forms in separate vignettes per scene. 

Originally premiering off-Broadway in 1996, the show ran for 12 years, making it off-Broadway’s second longest running show. It has since premiered in a dozen countries and has been translated all over the world. 

Directed and choreographed by John Simpkins, the show starts off with the four playing your general everyday people looking for love. The unnamed people sing about the hopes and dreams of their upcoming date that they each get dressed and ready for, “Cantana For a First Date.” Immediately after, we see Baez and Bernardy chat it up after meeting in person for the first time after an online dating match.

The relatability of these songs and scenes is painful — in a good way. For those in long-term relationships, you’ll cringe being reminded what it was like on the dating scene. For those still single, you’ll nod along in agreement to everything they complain about. 

Matt DaSilva, who was Williams’ understudy during Saturday night’s performance, was stellar in his scenes, notably the third song about two awkward people on their first date. The fact that each actor was able to change characters per scene with ease was impressive — each having their own story to tell.

Other standout songs and performances came from “Men Who Talk and the Women Who Pretend They’re Listening,” “The Lasagna Incident,” (with a beautiful ballad sung by Weinberg that shows off her phenomenal range), and “And Now the Parents.” You can guess what each of those songs are about and how they relate to dating. 

But the musical isn’t only about looking for love. They capture the wedding day, a typical night for a married couple, childbearing and even death, too. 

One number, that was sweet and funny, was “Funerals Are For Dating,” featuring Baez and Bernardy who hysterically played two old timers meeting at an acquaintance’s funeral. Bernardy tries to pick the mourning woman up and laughter ensues. However, it will leave you smiling because for such a funny moment mixed with sadness (talking about their deceased partners), you’ll smile at the sweet sentiment the end of the number provides. 

However, it’s not entirely sweet. This show is definitely not recommended for someone who might be a prude. Other topics tackled are unhappy sex lives and why men send women pictures of their penis. Adult language and content are prevalent. 

With a beautifully designed set, you will surely be impressed the moment you sit down. A setting described as “a city near you,” the backdrop includes impressive buildings with windows to apartments, and throughout the stage, different living rooms and bedrooms are set up for the appropriate skits.

From the looks of the rooms to the costumes and experiences, this show is going to make you say, “too true” in relation to your life. I can guarantee at least one of the scenes will relate to you and your partner in any stage of your relationship.

Tip? Bring someone on a first date! Remind them what they’re in for…

The John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport will present I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change through March 3. Tickets are $80 for Wednesday and Sunday evenings; $85 for Thursdays; $90 for Friday evenings, Saturday and Sunday matinees; and $95 for Saturday evenings. Tickets may be purchased by calling 631-261-2900, going online at www.engemantheater.com, or visiting the Engeman Theater Box Office at 250 Main Street, Northport.

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From left, Robert Anthony Jones (Cogsworth), Jonathan Cobrda (Lumiere) and Caitlin Burke (Mrs. Potts). Photo from The John W. Engeman Theater
Daniela Rodrigo (Belle) and Tim Rogan (Gaston). Photo from The John W. Engeman Theater
Joe Caskey (Beast). Photo from The John ., Engeman Theater
Daniela Rodrigo (Belle). Photo from The John W. Engeman Theater
Daniela Rodrigo (Belle) and Joe Caskey (Beast). Photo from The John W. Engeman Theater
Samantha Littleford (Babette) and Jonathan Cobrda (Lumiere). Photo from The John W. Engeman Theater
Joe Caskey (Beast) and Daniela Rodrigo (Belle). Photo from The John W. Engeman Theater

By Julianne Mosher

It’s a tale as old as time … true as it can be. The Disney classic, Beauty and the Beast, has made its way to the John W. Engeman Theater in Northport and it’s the perfect start to the upcoming holiday season right in our backyard. Known as one of the most enchanting musicals in modern history, and based on Disney’s 1991 Academy Award-winning film, this production is just as good as when it opened on Broadway in 1994.

Directed by Drew Humphrey with musical direction by Nick Wilders, the story sets off with a beautifully curated interpretative dance of the enchantress seeking shelter at the prince’s castle years before. Shunning her away due to her dire appearance, she curses the prince and forms him into a hideous beast — a spell that can only be broken if he falls in love and receives that love in return. The enchantress pirouettes across the floor, handing the creature a rose which will be the timer on how long he has before the spell takes its full course. 

But then, the scene changes, and we say “bonjour” to the baker, merchants, silly girls and townspeople of a quiet French village who are questioning the beautiful, but peculiar, Belle, played by Engeman newcomer Daniela Rodrigo. With her head always stuck in a book, she is naïve to the glances and comments she gets from her male counterparts, especially Gaston — a selfish, manly hunter who believes Belle is almost as pretty as himself.

Played by Tim Rogan, who just came off of the Engeman’s The Sound of Music, Gaston’s character is almost identical to the cartoon version. From his look to the voice, one could close their eyes and feel as if they’re listening to the movie’s soundtrack. His silly sidekick Lefou (Noah Ruebeck) brings such comedic relief to Gaston’s toxic masculinity that it’s the perfect pair. 

Rodrigo, too, is a beauty in looks but also in voice. One of the most magical moments later on in the show was when she walked out onto the stage in the signature yellow gown. The audience gasped. But before we get to that jaw-dropping moment, we’re introduced to Maurice (John J Trujillo), Belle’s quirky inventor father who ends up lost at the castle across the woods. Tired, cold and hungry, he wanders inside where he’s met with some of our favorite characters — Cogsworth (Robert Anthony Jones), Lumiere (Jonathan Cobrda), Babette (Samantha Littleford), Mrs. Potts (Caitlin Burke) and her son, Chip (Sadie Mathers), and Madame de la Grande Bouche (Celia Tedde) — employees of the castle who were unfortunately part of the enchantress’s spell. 

And while this clock, candlestick holder, feather duster, teapot and tea cup, and dresser chest were all wonderful hosts, their master, the beastly prince, was not and shuns the old man to the dungeon. 

On the lookout for her father, Belle ends up in the castle where she tries to rescue him, but the beast catches them both and the young woman sacrifices herself to be a prisoner rather than her father. But a light goes off (and it’s not just Lumiere’s hands giving a spark). Everyone realizes that Belle might be the answer to their prayers. If she can fall in love with the beast, then maybe everyone can be human again.

We’re taken back to some of the classic songs we know and love, “Be Our Guest,” “Gaston,” “Something There,” “Human Again” and the timeless classic, “Beauty and the Beast,” which had audience members in tears. Burke’s rendition of the song, originally performed by Angela Lansbury, sounded just like the late actress. Again, you’d think you’re listening to the original album. 

On top of fantastic vocals and stellar acting, the dancing was exciting with a mix of ballet, chorus line and some tap thrown in, as well. The costumes were stunning, as one would expect from such an extravagant show, especially during “Be Our Guest,” with the entire ensemble dressed as everything from cutlery, to mixing whisks and a chandelier. 

But nothing beats the beast, who looked truly terrifying, but still lovable somehow.

The set was beautifully designed, moving back and forth from the tiny French village to the prince’s castle with a pub, dark forest and library in between. 

Running now until Jan. 7, the Engeman’s production of Beauty and the Beast is a must-see this holiday season for everyone young or old. Tickets are available by calling the theater directly at 631-261-2900, visiting the box office at 250 Main Street in Northport or online at www.engemantheater.com.

You never know … This show might perhaps have “something there that wasn’t there before.”

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By Rita J. Egan

When a bio-musical is a success, audience members leave inspired and feeling as if they traveled back in time. That’s precisely what the John W. Engeman Theater’s cast and crew have accomplished for theatergoers with their production of Beautiful: The Carole King Musical, which opened Sept. 14.

New York theater lovers first experienced the production on Broadway at the Stephen Sondheim Theatre from January 2014 to October 2019. The jukebox musical, with book by Douglas McGrath, explores Carole King’s earlier musical and life experiences woven into the beautiful tapestry of this prolific songwriter and singer’s career. 

The production takes the audience on a musical journey from Carole’s first step into the entertainment world in 1958, when at 16 she sold her first song to publisher Don Kirshner, to her career-transforming album Tapestry.

While working for Kirshner, Carole meets lyricist Gerry Goffin at Queens College and collaborates with him professionally. The pair become romantically involved and young parents while creating hits for groups such as The Drifters and The Shirelles. During their partnership, Carole and Gerry enjoy a friendly competition with the songwriting team of Cynthia Weil and Barry Mann. Unfortunately, Carole and Gerry’s marriage is rocky, leading to divorce. However, the split propels the songwriter to branch out and sing her own music.

The Engeman production is masterfully directed by Paul Stancato, which is apparent in the actors’ fabulous portrayals of the iconic personalities and how they smoothly transition from one scene to another.

Stephanie Lynne Mason does an extraordinary job portraying Carole as a humble, modest songwriter who lacks confidence in her looks and singing talents. However, as the musical progresses, Mason seamlessly evolves into a more confident Carole, ready to take on Carnegie Hall. 

As Act I closes, Mason’s rendition of “One Fine Day,” after the songwriter finds out her husband hasn’t been faithful, nails the heartbreak Carole must have felt when she heard the news. Mason demonstrates that depth again during the reprise of “Will You Love Me Tomorrow” during the second act, and toward the end of the show, she has everyone feeling as if they are sitting in Carnegie Hall listening to a Grammy Award-winning star.

Jack Cahill-Lemme perfectly captures Gerry’s turmoil as he deals with depression and is so convincing as a womanizer that it’s difficult not to get upset at him when Gerry breaks Carole’s heart. As for his singing, his delivery of “Pleasant Valley Sunday” in Act II sounds even better than the Monkees’ version.

Sarah Ellis as Cynthia is everything you would expect from a successful songwriter — fun, flirty and sexy. From her first number, “Happy Days/Cynthia,” audience members know they will be in for a treat with Ellis on stage.

Noah Berry is perfect as the hypochondriac Barry, who falls in love with Cynthia. He delivers an energized and impressive “We Gotta Get Out of This Place” in the second act. The musical is also filled with some funny lines, and Ellis and Berry skillfully lighten the mood.

Playing Carole’s mother, Genie Klein, is Laura Leigh Carroll, who portrays her with just the right amount of strength and love. Devon Goffman is perfect in his portrayal of Don Kirshner, acting as a respected patriarch who balances motivating his ensemble of songwriters with caring about them as people.

A review of the Engeman’s production of Beautiful wouldn’t be complete without a mention of the ensemble members. Early in Act 1, the ensemble treats the audience to “1650 Broadway Medley.” This number is just a preview of what’s in store for the audience from the talented singers and dancers as most of them hit the stage later to sing pop classics, stealing the spotlight from the main characters.

Cory Simmons, Damien DeShaun Smith, Dwayne Washington and Leron Wellington are suave and debonair as The Drifters. Their renditions of “Some Kind of Wonderful,” “Up on the Roof” and “On Broadway” are swoon-worthy.

Renee Marie Titus, Zuri Washington, Cecily Dionne Davis and Cece Morin bring to the stage all the glamor, style and talent of The Shirelles with “Will You Love Me Tomorrow.” Davis returns to the stage and shines once again as fictional singer Janelle Woods singing “One Fine Day,” and Morin as Little Eva sounds fantastic singing “The Loco-motion.” Joe Caskey and Jack B. Murphy as The Righteous Brothers also deliver a powerful “You’ve Lost that Lovin’ Feelin’.”

The Engeman musicians, led by Jeff Cox, are equally impressive on all the tunes. Kyle Dixon has done a phenomenal job creating a stage design that is versatile yet eye-catching with golden-colored sliding panels, and costume designer Dustin Cross has captured the fun and glamor of the 1960s perfectly.

The beauty of Engeman’s Beautiful: The Carole King Musical is that theatergoers don’t have to be fans of the artist or the songs of the 1960s to enjoy a spectacular night of entertainment. The cast and crew have once again crafted a production worthy of Broadway.

The John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main Street, Northport presents Beautiful: The Carole King Musical through Oct. 29. Tickets range from $85 to $95. For more information, call 631-261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com.

All photos courtesy of The John W. Engeman Theater.

See a preview of the show here.

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IT FITS! From left, Miranda Jo DeMott, Natalie Seus, Olivia Giorgio, Ryan McInnes and Lacey Cornell in a scene from the show. Photo courtesy of The John W. Engeman Theater
From left, Lacey Cornell, Jae Hughes and Gabe Cruz in a scene from the show. Photo courtesy of the John W. Engeman Theater
From left, Alyssa Infranco, Miranda Jo DeMott, Natalie Seus and Olivia Giorgio in a scene from 'Cinderella'. Photo courtesy of the John W. Engeman Theater
Natalie Seus in a scene from 'Cinderella'. Photo courtesy of the John W. Engeman Theater
From left, Gabe Cruz, Michael Fasciano and Jae Hughes in a scene from 'Cinderella'. Photo courtesy of the John W. Engeman Theater

By Heidi Sutton

The John W. Engeman Theater closes its 2022-2023 children’s theater season with the timeless tale of Cinderella, much to the delight of all the little princesses that showed up to last Saturday morning’s performance. With music by Jeanne Bargy and Jim Eiler and book and lyrics by Eiler, the story closes follows the original with a few hilarious twists and turns along the way.

We first meet the fairy godmother who “with a wave of a wand can make all of your wishes come true.” Looking at a list of the neediest cases of the day she discovers Ella, an orphan who lives with her evil stepmother and two demanding stepsisters Henrietta and Gertrude. Ella is treated like a servant and has to sleep in the kitchen by the fire, giving her the nickname Cinderella.

The audience is then whisked away to the castle where King Darling III is making arrangements to throw a ball so that his son Prince Charming can find a girl to marry before his 21st birthday. Invitations are sent out and as always poor Cinderella must stay behind but her fairy godmother will make things right. With a little bit of magic she turns a pumpkin into a royal coach and a handful of cinders become a beautiful ball gown complete with glass slippers. At the ball the prince is immediately smitten with Cinderella as they waltz the night away. But the stroke of midnight changes everything.

Directed and choreographed by Danny Meglio, the fast-paced production is clever, funny and charming. 

Olivia Giorgio is perfectly cast as Cinderella. Her recurring solo, “What Will Become of Me?” is heartfelt. Her fairy godmother, played to the hilt by Lacey Cornell, comes down into the audience often to talk to the children, giving time for set changes, and is often “invisible” on stage, assessing the situation before taking action. 

Natalie Seus has much fun in her role as the evil stepmother as do Alyssa Infranco and Miranda Jo Demott as the stepsisters who invent a special dance at the ball, the Sneeze Polka, which the entire audience is invited to take part in. 

Michael Fasciano draws the most laughs in his role as the extremely near-sighted King Darling III who is always walking in the wrong direction or mistaking one person for another. If not for the assistance of the Royal Guards, played by Jae Hughes and Gabe Cruz, he would’ve walked right off the stage!

The handsome Ryan McInnes makes a fine Prince Charming who only wants to marry for love. A highlight of the show is when he and the Royal Guards come into the audience and give little girls a chance to try on the glass slipper before the stepsisters have a go at it. 

Special mention must also be made of the costumes and wigs designed by Laura McGauley. From Cinderella’s dress to the fairy godmother’s robe to the purple wigs on the stepsisters, everything was magical.

Light-up wands are sold before and during intermission, costumes are encouraged and booster seats are available. Meet, greet and get autographs from the entire cast in the lobby after the show. An autograph page is conveniently located at the back of the program.

The John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport presents Cinderella on Saturdays and Sundays through Aug. 27. The 2023-2024 season kicks off with The Wizard of Oz from Sept. 23 to Oct. 29 and Frosty from Nov. 25 to Dec. 31. All seats are $20. To order, call 631-261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com.

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The cast of 'Flat Stanley'. Photo from The John W. Engeman Theater
From left, John Fasciano, Daniel Bishop and Suzanne Mason in a scene from 'Flat Stanley'. Photo from The John W. Engeman Theater
Patrick McCowen as mailman Mr. Cartero in a scene from 'Flat Stanley'. Photo from The John W. Engeman Theater
Daniel Bishop and Patrick McCowen in a scene from 'Flat Stanley'. Photo from The John W. Engeman Theater
The cast of 'Flat Stanley'. Photo from The John W. Engeman Theater

By Heidi Sutton

Children’s theater continues at The John W. Engeman Theater with The Musical Adventures of Flat Stanley. The adorable show, based on the first in a series of books by Jeff Brown, follows the adventures of Stanley Lambchop (Daniel Bishop) who lives with his parents (Michael Fasciano and Suzanne Mason) and his brother Arthur (Jae Hughes). His mailman, Mr Cartero (Patrick McCowen) serves as narrator and introduces Stanley as an average 10-year-old kid who has big dreams.

At bedtime, Stanley and his brother see a falling star and make a wish. While Arthur wishes for an A on his science project, Stanley wishes to travel and “do amazing things the world has never seen before.” In the middle of the night a bulletin board above his bed crashes down on him and flattens him like a pancake.

At first, Stanley and his parents are alarmed and take him to Dr. Dan for an evaluation but he is as perplexed (and confused) as they are. When Stanley goes to school, his classmates tie him to a string and fly him like a kite until he gets stuck in a tree. Then Stanley realizes the advantage of his two-dimensional position and, for the price of a stamp, mails himself in a letter to California to visit a friend. 

From there he mails himself to Paris and poses as a painting in the Louvre next to Napoleon and Mona Lisa to catch a sneak thief, and then heads to Hawaii to star as a surfboard in a movie. In the end Stanley realizes that home is the best address but will he remain flat forever?

Directed and choreographed by Danny Meglio, the five talented cast members, playing multiple roles, put on a terrific show. The question on everyone’s mind was how a flat character would appear on stage but the clever costume does the trick.

The song and dance numbers are a delight to watch with special mention to Bishop’s solo “I Wish I Were … A Hero,” “The Funny Sunny Side,” “Talent'” with a great soft-shoe number and Hughes’ heartfelt solo, “Arthur’s Letter.” 

With the message to look for a little adventure in everything you do, this imaginative and clever show is flat-out fun. Meet, greet and sign autographs with the cast after the show in the lobby. An autograph page is conveniently located at the back of the program.

The John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St. Northport presents The Musical Adventures of Flat Stanley on Saturdays at 11 a.m. and Sundays at 10:30 a.m. through July 2 with a sensory friendly performance on June 10 at 11 a.m. Up next is Cinderella from July 22 to Aug. 27. All seats are $20. For more information or to order, call 631-261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com. 

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A scene from 'The Sound of Music'. Photo courtesy of The John W. Engeman Theater
A scene from 'The Sound of Music'. Photo courtesy of The John W. Engeman Theater
A scene from 'The Sound of Music'. Photo courtesy of The John W. Engeman Theater
A scene from 'The Sound of Music'. Photo courtesy of The John W. Engeman Theater
A scene from 'The Sound of Music'. Photo courtesy of The John W. Engeman Theater
A scene from 'The Sound of Music'. Photo courtesy of The John W. Engeman Theater
A scene from 'The Sound of Music'. Photo courtesy of The John W. Engeman Theater
A scene from 'The Sound of Music'. Photo courtesy of The John W. Engeman Theater
A scene from 'The Sound of Music'. Photo courtesy of The John W. Engeman Theater

By Julianne Mosher

The stage at the John W. Engeman Theater in Northport turns into 1930s Austria with its latest production of The Sound of Music and it will have everyone in the audience feel all the emotions.

Based on the real Von Trapp family, and the real events they endured when the Nazi’s invaded their hometown of Austria at the start of World War II, the cast and crew of the latest local production does the original Tony Award-winning show justice with a fantastic lineup of talented actors.

Directed by Drew Humphrey, the show starts off with the Nuns of Nonnberg Abbey ensemble who sing a haunting, and beautiful Preludium hymm with a stellar performance by Cáitlin Burke who plays the Mother Abbess. The set quickly changes from the church courthouse to the rolling blue and purple hills, where our favorite nun-turned-nanny, Maria Rainer (played by Kayleen Seidl), sings the famous classic, “The Sound of Music.”

Made famous by the Oscar-winning 1965 remake of the original Broadway show that starred Julie Andrews and Christopher Plummer, the audience follows the curious and rebellious Maria as she leaves the Abbey to help a widowed father take care of his seven children. In the Von Trapp home, Maria teaches Louisa, Kurt, Liesl, Friedrich, Brigitta, Marta and little Gretl “My Favorite Things” and “Do-Re-Mi,” which had the audience singing along in their seats. 

Seidl’s performance of Maria made the audience fall in love with her just as Naval Captain Georg Von Trapp (played by Tim Rogan) and his children eventually do throughout the show. But what also received a standing ovation during last Friday’s show was the performance of those children who rehearsed for weeks after school and their extra curriculars to share the spotlight with some of the most talented actors the industry has to offer. Of that performance, Kayla Kennedy (Brigitta), Laura Park (the mature and almost-17-Liesl), and Micaela Maio, who played little Gretl, were standout stars.

Choreographed by Mandy Modic, the musical number of “Sixteen Going on Seventeen” featuring Park and her Rolf Gruber (played by understudy Max Desantis) was playful and impressive using props from the villa’s courtyard to assist them dance around during their flirtatious banter. The set design was able to quickly change with ease, turning from a church, to the mountains, to the Von Trapp living room and bedrooms, to the outside courtyard where the two teenagers would sneak out to.

And we cannot forget other members of the cast, like Matthew Bryan Feld (Max Detweiler) and Angel Reda (as Elsa Schraeder) who were also lovable … even if they didn’t agree with the captain’s politics and played more selfish parts. Reda, who alone has a long resume of national and regional shows, just finished her latest stint with Chicago on Broadway. 

While The Sound of Music may not be the happiest of stories, the cast and crew at the Engeman Theater does the show right with a fantastic lineup to match an amazing score that is fit for anyone, any age, or whether they are 16 going on 17.

The John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport presents The Sound of Music through July 2. Shows are at 8 p.m. on Thursdays and Fridays, 3 p.m. and 8 p.m. on Saturdays, and 2 p.m. on Sundays. Tickets are $85 for Saturday performances and $80 for all others showings, and can be purchased by calling 631-261-2900 or online at www.engemantheater.com.

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Finn Brown as JoJo and Jae Hughes as the Cat in the Hat in a scene from the show. Photo from The John W. Engeman Theater
Finn Brown as JoJo and Jae Hughes at the Cat in the Hat perform 'It's Possible'. Photo from The John W. Engeman Theater
Horton the Elephant (Patrick McCowen) and the Sour Kangaroo (Suzanne Mason). Photo from The John W. Engeman Theater
The Wickersham Brothers - Justin Autz and Terrence Sheldon. Photo from The John W. Engeman Theater
Horton the Elephant (Patrick McCowen) and Mayzie (Jillian Sharpe). Photo from The John W. Engeman Theater
Horton the Elephant (Patrick McCowen) and the Cat in the Hat (Jae Hughes). Photo from The John W. Engeman Theater
Horton the Elephant (Patrick McCowen) and the Cat in the Hat (Jae Hughes). Photo from The John W. Engeman Theater
Horton the Elephant (Patrick McCowen) and the Cat in the Hat (Jae Hughes). Photo from The John W. Engeman Theater
Bird Girls (Jessica Mae Murphy, Michelle Shapiro and Rachel Zulawski). Photo from The John W. Engeman Theater Mayzie (Jillian Sharpe) and Gertrude McFuzz (Michaela Vivona)
Jillian Sharpe as Mayzie. Photo from The John W. Engeman Theater
Michaela Vivona as Gertrude McFuzz sings 'All for You' to Horton the Elephant (Patrick McCowen). Photo from The John W. Engeman Theater
The cast of 'Seussical the Musical'. Photo from The John W. Engeman Theater
‘Oh the thinks you can think … when you think about Seuss!’

By Heidi Sutton

Families with young children packed into the Engeman Theater last Saturday morning to witness a most beautiful tribute to the imaginative world of Theodor Seuss Geisel aka Dr. Seuss in Seussical the Musical. The children book author’s favorite characters come to life in this colorful and magical show, including Horton the Elephant, The Cat in the Hat, Gertrude McFuzz, Mayzie La Bird and JoJo, a little boy with a big imagination.

Written in 2000 by Tony winners Lynn Ahrens and Stephen Flaherty, the musical is now one of the most performed shows in the United States and it’s easy to see why. A trip down memory lane for many generations, it is based primarily on the Dr. Seuss children books, “Horton Hears a Who,” “Horton Hatches an Egg” and “Gertrude McFuzz,” but also incorporates references to other Dr. Seuss stories including “McElligot’s Pool” and “Oh the Thinks You Can Think!”

Directed by Andrew McCluskey with choreography by Jillian Sharpe, the colorful cast of characters transport the audience from the Jungle of Nool to the Circus McGurkus to the invisible world of the Whos. The Cat in the Hat (Jae Hughes) guides us through the magical journey with the help of Jojo the Mayor’s son (Finn Brown at last Saturday’s performance), who occasionally jumps into the scene when warranted.

The show opens as Horton the Elephant (Patrick McCowen) hears a cry for help and discovers a floating speck of dust containing the town of Whoville. After safely placing it on a clover flower, Horton is tricked into sitting on lazy Mayzie La Bird’s (Jillian Sharpe) egg for 51 weeks, is captured by hunters and eventually sold to the circus. When he is finally rescued by Gertrude McFuzz (Michaela Vivona), he is put on trial by Sour Kangaroo (Suzanne Mason) for “sitting on an egg and talking to a speck.” Will the faithful pachyderm be exonerated or will he be sentenced to a mental institution by Judge Yertle the Turtle?

The fast-paced show keeps the young audience wide-eyed and on the edge of their seats. One of the most exciting scenes is when the Wickersham Brothers (Justin Autz and Terrence Sheldon) steal the clover and are chased through the theater by Horton. The dance numbers are terrific with special props and audience participation is encouraged as Horton and Mayzie’s egg are auctioned off to the highest bidder. 

The incredible songs are the heart of the show, from the fun intro “Oh, The Thinks You Can Think!” to the sweet “Horton Hears a Who” (where a person’s a person no matter how small), the enduring “Notice Me Horton,” and a personal favorite, “It’s Possible.” Horton and Jojo’s duet, “Alone in the Universe,” will give you goosebumps and the group’s upbeat finale is a fitting rendition of “Green Eggs and Ham.” 

Costumes and wigs by Laura McGauley along with the cartoonish set mimic the original Seuss illustrations perfectly.

In the end, the show leaves us with the inspiring message that anything is possible when you let your imagination fly. Don’t miss this one.

Pick up a clover-shaped flashlight souvenir before the show and stay after for a meet and greet with the cast in the lobby for photos and autographs. An autograph page is conveniently located at the back of the program.

The John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport presents Seussical the Musical on Saturdays at 11 a.m. and Sundays at 10:30 a.m. through April 30 with a special sensory sensitive performance on April 15. Up next is The Musical Adventures of Flat Stanley from May 27 to July 2. All seats are $20. To order, call 631-261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com.

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Terrence Mann and the cast of 'The Scarlet Pimpernel'. Photo from The John W. Engeman THeater
From left, Kevin O’Neill (co-owner), Terrence Mann, Paul Stancato (director), Richard Dolce (co- owner) at Saturday’s show. Photo from The John W. Engeman Theater
Richard Dolce, co-owner) of Engeman Theater, with Terrence Mann. Photo from The John W. Engeman Theater
Terrence Mann and 'The Scarlet Pimpernel' director Paul Stancato. Photo from The John W. Engeman Theater
Paul Stancato (Director), Jonathan Cobrda (Elton), Terrence Mann, Richard Dolce (Co- Owner). Photo from The John W. Engeman Theater
Nathaniel Hackmann (Chauvelin), Terrence Mann, Arianne Davidow (Margeurite St. Just), Christopher Behmke (Percy Blakeney/The Scarlet Pimpernel) and Jonathan Cobrda (Elton). Photo from The John W. Engeman Theater
The staff and cast of 'The Scarlet Pimpernel' with Terrence Mann. Photo from The John W. Engeman Theater

Tony Award-nominated Broadway actor/director Terrence Mann attended the opening night of The Scarlet Pimpernel at the John W. Engeman Theater on March 18.

Mann originated the role of Chauvelin in The Scarlet Pimpernel on Broadway in 1997 and originated the role of the Beast in the Broadway production of Beauty and the Beast for which he earned Tony, Drama Desk, and Outer Critics Circle nominations for best actor for his performance. 

Mann also portrayed Javert in the original Broadway company of Les Miserables as well as The Rum Tum Tugger in the original Broadway company of Cats. Highlighting Mann’s other Broadway stage credits include Lennon, The Rocky Horror Picture Show, Getting Away with Murder, Rags, Barnum, Jerome Robbins’ Broadway, Pippin, The Addams Family, Finding Neverland, and Tuck Everlasting.

When Mann took the open mic during bows he exclaimed, “I think I have walked into magic land because it only takes three things — the music, a cast like this, and the audience.” He later added, “Good theater is communication. And great theater is communion. And tonight, you all have just created great communion!” He then joined the cast in singing the final reprise of “Into the Fire.”

“We are honored that Terry Mann — the original Chauvelin from the Broadway production — was able to join us for opening night of The Scarlet Pimpernel. To have a true Broadway legend attend the performance, address our audience, and join the cast for the final number onstage made for a night that none of us will forget,” said Richard Dolce, co-owner of the John W. Engeman Theater. The show runs through April 30. 

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Ryan Hunt (The Old Man) and Ensemble in a scene from the show.
Ryan Hunt (The Old Man), Rachel Gubow (Mother), Jackson Parker Gill (Randy), Kaian Lilien (Ralphie) in a scene from the show.
Liam Polani (Schwartz), Quinn Oliver Lessing (Flick), and Ensemble in s scene from the show.
Jackson Parker Gill (Randy), Kaian Lilien (Ralphie) and Ensemble in a scene from the show.
Kaian Lilien as Ralphie in a scene from the show.
Kaian Lilien (Ralphie), Raquel Sciacca (Ensemble), Quinn Oliver Lessing (Flick), Liam Polani (Schwartz), Avery Sell (Ensemble), Sofia Jarmel (Ensemble), Lanene Charters (Miss Shields) in a scene from the show.
Jackson Parker Gill (Randy) and Rachel Gubow (Mother)

By Heidi Sutton

Many families have holiday traditions, whether it’s baking cookies, making their favorite side dishes, decorating the tree on a certain day, going to see the same show every year or wearing ugly sweaters. Among those traditions is the 24-hour marathon of A Christmas Story (1983) on TBS that began in 1997 and now also runs on TNT on Dec. 24 and 25. And if you know the name of the Lone Ranger’s nephew’s horse, then you are a true fan.

Based on semi-autobiographical stories by Jean Shepherd, who also narrates throughout, the funny holiday film follows the Parker family — 9-year-old Ralphie, his younger brother Randy, his father (the Old Man) and his mother — living in a house on Cleveland Street in fictional Hohman, Indiana and their days leading up to the Christmas of 1940.

When asked by his mother what he would like for Christmas Ralphie doesn’t say Tinker toys, a football and or a Radio Flyer. He wants a bb gun — a Red Ryder carbine-action 200 Shot Range Model air rifle with a stock and a thing that tells time, to be exact. When his mother tells him no, that he’ll “shoot his eye out,” he goes on a quest  to try to convince her otherwise. The film was selected for preservation in the United States National Film Registry by the Library of Congress for being “culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant” in 2012.

Now the classic holiday story returns to the John W. Engeman Theater in Northport through Dec. 31 and is the perfect holiday gift for the entire family.

Directed and choreographed by Mara Newberry Greer with a live orchestra conducted by Daniel Mollett, the show follows the film closely with many of the scenes we have come to love. In the role of Jean Shepherd, narrator Michael Fasciano, stepping in for Mark Aldrich last Saturday night, sits on the right side of the theater and presents the story in a series of vignettes as he remembers “Another time, another place … and a gun.”

As with everything the Engeman does, the show is bold and fresh and pushes the limits of live theater to take the audience down a joyous trip down memory lane. The Old Man’s major award, the Bumpus hounds, Ralphie’s scuffle with Scut Farkus (what a name!) while fellow toadie Grover Dill looks helplessly on; the frosty flagpole scene with Flick and Schwartz, Randy’s snowsuit, the furnace, the trip to Higbee’s Department Store with Santa and the infamous slide, the flat tire, the pink bunny costume, when Ralphie almost shoots his eye out, Christmas morning around the tree and Christmas dinner at the Chinese restaurant — all the scenes we have come to love are there in all their glory.

The entire cast is phenomenal. 

As the Old Man, Ryan M. Hunt brings the house down with “A Major Award” where he dances with multiple leg lamps. Rachel Gubow, stepping in for Jennifer Evans last Saturday night, was wonderful in the role of the mother, keeping calm in the household.  Her rendition of “What a Mother Does” was heartfelt. Jackson Parker Gill is perfectly cast as Randy and even sounds like him, especially during the snowsuit scene.

Drawing the most laughs is Lanene Charters as Ralphie’s teacher Miss Shields. Obsessed with margins, Charters is hilarious in the big Speak Easy number “You’ll Shoot Your Eye Out” as she mercilessly mocks Ralphie in this terrific tap dance number.

However it is the amazingly talented Kaian Lilien in the role of Ralphie who commands the stage. His incredible performance in the opening number, “It All Comes Down to Christmas” is only topped by his rendition of “Ralphie to the Rescue!,” in one of the best scenes in the show. 

The period costumes by Dustin Cross perfectly set the scene and the set, designed by Kyle Dixon, is impressive as well. Two rooms featuring an authentic 1940s kitchen and living room (the heart of the home) slide front and back on the stage to accommodate other scenes including Ralphie’s classroom and the alleyway, among others. The boys’ bunk bed slides out from the side. Beautifully executed! 

Make this show part of your family’s holiday tradition. I triple dog dare you. 

The John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport presents A Christmas Story through Dec. 31. Main stage theater continues with Dirty Rotten Scoundrels from Jan. 19 to March 5, 2023 and The Scarlet Pimpernel from March 16 to April 30, 2023. Tickets range from $80 to $85 with free valet parking. To order, call 631-261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com.

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