Two Nights, Two Shows – Only One New York!

 

A highlight from last month in beautiful New York was having the opportunity to see two fantastic productions playing on Broadway!

First – Shakespeare’s King Lear directed by Sam Gold – What an honor to see the legendary, Glenda Jackson, in the title role! I have followed Jackson’s brilliant career for as long as I can remember, so this was such a special treat to see her incredible performance as Lear opposite the extraordinary, Ruth Wilson. If you’re familiar with Shakespeare’s King Lear, you will no doubt remember the significant storm scene in Act Three, Scene One. Funny enough, on the way to the Cort Theatre this particular night, I was literally caught in a heavy downpour with flash flood warnings! My Lyft driver was trying not to panic as he was getting numerous alerts as to the impending flash floods. He confidently yelled back to me while en route – “Don’t worry – I know we’re in a storm but I’ll get you to the theatre on time!” I couldn’t help but smile as I thought to myself – well this really is the perfect weather in which to see King Lear. This show has now closed, however the wonderful memory of this evening and production, will definitely live on.

The second production I saw whilst in New York was HADESTOWN. I can’t even begin to express how much this show captivated my heart. From the stellar cast, to the incredible set, to the music to the staging – HADESTOWN truly took my breath away. Directed by Rachel Chavkin with Music, Lyrics and Book by Anaïs Mitchell, I remember being not even half way through the First Act, thinking – “Oh my gosh! I wish I had another night to see this show again.”  Winner of 8 Tony awards (including Best Musical!) with 14 nominations – Hadestown tells a version of the ancient Greek myth of Orpheus and Eurydice, where Orpheus goes to the underworld to rescue his fiancée Eurydice. Hades is played brilliantly by Patrick Page! Do go see Hadestown at the William Kerr Theatre if you’re in New York or are planning to visit. You’ll be so glad you did!

Until next time, New York…

 

THREE ELIZABETHS – March 9th & 10th Ruby Theatre @ the Complex!

slider-3liz-1000x391-bHave you ever wondered what life was really like for the Elizabeth I of England? Her inner world, the men she loved, the struggles she faced to maintain her crown? This weekend, you can find out! Please join us for two exclusive performances of THREE ELIZABETHS, a new play by Tony nominated director/choreographer Tony Tanner.

This unique play shows Elizabeth the First in three different stages of her life, portrayed by three actresses on stage at the same time: Elizabeth the Younger, played by Lonni Silverman; Elizabeth the Queen, played by Susan Hanfield; and Elizabeth the Dowager, played by Jean Gilpin. Ghosts from their past re-emerge and interact with them throughout the production.

Our outstanding cast also includes Elyse Ashton as Mary, Queen of Scots; Damon Kirche as the men in Elizabeth’s life (Seymour, Leicester & Essex); Tad Atkinson as Dickon; Kaye Kittrel as Mary Tudor with Matt Hennerson and Joe Hulser alternating as Henry VIII.

Costume design by Cairin Jacobs.

Performances of THREE ELIZABETHS will be on March 9th and 10th will be at 2pm in the Ruby Theatre @ The Complex in Hollywood. If you would like to make a reservation, please email ThreeElizabethsReservationss@gmail.com.

 

Farewell 2018 …what a wonderful year it has been!

IMG_2811Happy New Year, Everyone!

Farewell  2018 … from stage to screen to books that I adored working on, it’s been one amazing year! Very grateful for the work that I get to do and for my family, friends and colleagues that make each one of these day to day memories so very special.

Wishing all a wonderful 2019! May it be a year filled with much love, joy, creativity, laughter and the deepest of dreams coming true! #happynewyear2019 #top9of2018.

New Play – THREE ELIZABETHS – on stage in early 2019!

So it begins. Great first rehearsal today of new play THREE ELIZABETHS written & directed by Tony nominated director and choreographer, Tony Tanner.

I couldn’t be more excited to be playing Queen Elizabeth I, alongside an incredible cast! The premise of this piece is so unique – Elizabeth the First, in three different stages of her life. Three different actresses on stage at the same time – Elizabeth the Younger, Elizabeth the Queen, Elizabeth the Dowager. Figures from their past re-emerge and interact with them.

We did a staged reading of this play a little while ago, receiving a wonderful response, that has now prompted a full production.

Stay tuned for performance details coming in early 2019!