Alex Edelman, the comedian, actor and writer who made his Broadway debut last year in his solo show Just For Us, will receive a Special 2024 Tony Award for the production, the Tony Administration Committee announced today.
The committee revealed today that Edelman will be one of three Special Tony recipients this June, along with longtime sound designer Abe Jacob and Jaja’s African Hair Braiding hair and wig designer Nikiya Mathis.
Special Tony Awards are presented to outstanding productions, artists and organizations who do not fall into any of the competitive categories.
In addition to the Special Tonys, five recipients of this year’s Tony Honors for Excellence in the Theatre were named: Projection designer Wendall K. Harrington; arts leader Colleen Jennings-Roggensack; retiring Playwrights Horizons board chair Judith O. Rubin; the Dramatists Guild Foundation; and the Samuel J. Friedman Health Center for the Performing Arts.
Regarding the Special Tony recipients,...
The committee revealed today that Edelman will be one of three Special Tony recipients this June, along with longtime sound designer Abe Jacob and Jaja’s African Hair Braiding hair and wig designer Nikiya Mathis.
Special Tony Awards are presented to outstanding productions, artists and organizations who do not fall into any of the competitive categories.
In addition to the Special Tonys, five recipients of this year’s Tony Honors for Excellence in the Theatre were named: Projection designer Wendall K. Harrington; arts leader Colleen Jennings-Roggensack; retiring Playwrights Horizons board chair Judith O. Rubin; the Dramatists Guild Foundation; and the Samuel J. Friedman Health Center for the Performing Arts.
Regarding the Special Tony recipients,...
- 5/2/2024
- by Greg Evans
- Deadline Film + TV
This year’s Tonys will be held on June 16, so the American Theatre Wing will likely be announcing its lifetime achievement award recipient in the near future. Who do you think should take home this prestigious trophy? It has gone to veteran stage performers, directors, choreographers, playwrights, songwriters, producers and designers. In some years we get multiple recipients.
Last year these honors went to legendary actor Joel Grey and composer John Kander. The following living female Broadway vets have also received this award in the past and thus won’t be chosen again: Jane Greenwood, Rosemary Harris and Graciela Daniele. Here are 10 possible women the Tonys could award, all veterans over the age of 65. Vote to let us know who you’d like to see honored.
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Debbie Allen
Two-time Tony nominated actress for her performances in revivals of “West Side Story...
Last year these honors went to legendary actor Joel Grey and composer John Kander. The following living female Broadway vets have also received this award in the past and thus won’t be chosen again: Jane Greenwood, Rosemary Harris and Graciela Daniele. Here are 10 possible women the Tonys could award, all veterans over the age of 65. Vote to let us know who you’d like to see honored.
Sign UPfor Gold Derby’s free newsletter with latest predictions
Debbie Allen
Two-time Tony nominated actress for her performances in revivals of “West Side Story...
- 3/25/2024
- by Jeffrey Kare
- Gold Derby
Three attempts to make fetch happen: The original Mean Girls (top), the new Mean Girls adaptation (middle) and the Broadway version of Mean Girls (bottom)Image: Screenshot: Paramount Pictures, Lloyd Bishop/NBCU Photo Bank/NBCUniversal via Getty Images via Getty Images, Jojo Whilden/Paramount © 2023 Paramount Pictures (Getty Images)
Mean Girls,...
Mean Girls,...
- 1/13/2024
- by Drew Gillis
- avclub.com
Sarah Rice, who performed the pivotal role of the endangered Johanna in the original Broadway production of Stephen Sondheim’s Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street, died Saturday of cancer. She was 68.
Her death was announced in an Instagram post by her friend and fellow performer Rebecca Caine, who remembered Rice for her love of animals. “May you be greeted by every animal you ever loved on the other side and may green finch and linnet birds sing you to your rest,” wrote Caine, referring to the Sweeney number “Green Finch & Linnet Bird” performed by the Johanna character.
Rice, whose Sweeney role in 1979 was her first and only Broadway performance, revisited her signature song just two years ago at the Sondheim Unplugged concert staged at New York’s 54 Below.
Sarah Rice sings “Green Finch and Linnet Bird” at 54 Below in 2022
Born March 5, 1955, in Okinawa, Japan, where her father...
Her death was announced in an Instagram post by her friend and fellow performer Rebecca Caine, who remembered Rice for her love of animals. “May you be greeted by every animal you ever loved on the other side and may green finch and linnet birds sing you to your rest,” wrote Caine, referring to the Sweeney number “Green Finch & Linnet Bird” performed by the Johanna character.
Rice, whose Sweeney role in 1979 was her first and only Broadway performance, revisited her signature song just two years ago at the Sondheim Unplugged concert staged at New York’s 54 Below.
Sarah Rice sings “Green Finch and Linnet Bird” at 54 Below in 2022
Born March 5, 1955, in Okinawa, Japan, where her father...
- 1/8/2024
- by Greg Evans
- Deadline Film + TV
Stage and screen actor best known for her role as Winifred Banks in Disney’s Mary Poppins
In the childhood memories of more than one generation, Glynis Johns, who has died aged 100, will be best remembered as the Edwardian materfamilias of the hugely popular Walt Disney musical Mary Poppins (1964). Winifred Banks, married to David Tomlinson’s George W Banks, is the mother of Jane and Michael, the children in the care of the magical nanny played by Julie Andrews. A protester for the right to vote, Winifred delivers a spirited rendition of the song Sister Suffragette – “Our daughters’ daughters will adore us. And they’ll sing in grateful chorus: ‘Well done, Sister Suffragette!’” – as the children’s previous nanny tries to quit.
But the husky-voiced actor had other claims to fame from her more than 60 films and 30 stage productions. In 1973, Stephen Sondheim composed the song Send in the Clowns for...
In the childhood memories of more than one generation, Glynis Johns, who has died aged 100, will be best remembered as the Edwardian materfamilias of the hugely popular Walt Disney musical Mary Poppins (1964). Winifred Banks, married to David Tomlinson’s George W Banks, is the mother of Jane and Michael, the children in the care of the magical nanny played by Julie Andrews. A protester for the right to vote, Winifred delivers a spirited rendition of the song Sister Suffragette – “Our daughters’ daughters will adore us. And they’ll sing in grateful chorus: ‘Well done, Sister Suffragette!’” – as the children’s previous nanny tries to quit.
But the husky-voiced actor had other claims to fame from her more than 60 films and 30 stage productions. In 1973, Stephen Sondheim composed the song Send in the Clowns for...
- 1/5/2024
- by Tim Pulleine
- The Guardian - Film News
English actress Glynis Johns, who played the daffy suffragette mother Mrs. Banks in the classic film ‘Mary Poppins’, passed away on Thursday at an assisted living home in Los Angeles, her manager Mitch Clem confirmed. She was 100.
Clem said in a statement, “Glynis powered her way through life with intelligence, wit, and a love for performance, affecting millions of lives,” reports ‘Variety’.
“She entered my life early in my career and set a very high bar on how to navigate this industry with grace, class, and truth. Your own truth. Her light shone very brightly for 100 years.
“She had a wit that could stop you in your tracks powered by a heart that loved deeply and purely. Today is a sombre day for Hollywood. Not only do we mourn the passing of our dear Glynis, but we mourn the end of the golden age of Hollywood,” the statement said.
As...
Clem said in a statement, “Glynis powered her way through life with intelligence, wit, and a love for performance, affecting millions of lives,” reports ‘Variety’.
“She entered my life early in my career and set a very high bar on how to navigate this industry with grace, class, and truth. Your own truth. Her light shone very brightly for 100 years.
“She had a wit that could stop you in your tracks powered by a heart that loved deeply and purely. Today is a sombre day for Hollywood. Not only do we mourn the passing of our dear Glynis, but we mourn the end of the golden age of Hollywood,” the statement said.
As...
- 1/5/2024
- by Agency News Desk
- GlamSham
Johns was a regular in British films of the forties and fifties and later in Hollywood productions.
British actress Glynis Johns, best known for her role in Disney’s 1964 classic Mary Poppins, has died aged 100.
Johns died in Los Angeles, where she had been living in an assisted living home for the past few years, according to her manager Mitch Clem.
Born in South Africa while her parents – her mother was a concert pianist and her father the Welsh actor Mervyn Johns – were on tour, Johns’ grew up in the UK. In the 1940s and early fifties she appeared in a string of British films,...
British actress Glynis Johns, best known for her role in Disney’s 1964 classic Mary Poppins, has died aged 100.
Johns died in Los Angeles, where she had been living in an assisted living home for the past few years, according to her manager Mitch Clem.
Born in South Africa while her parents – her mother was a concert pianist and her father the Welsh actor Mervyn Johns – were on tour, Johns’ grew up in the UK. In the 1940s and early fifties she appeared in a string of British films,...
- 1/5/2024
- by John Hazelton
- ScreenDaily
Johns was a regular in British films of the forties and fifties and later in Hollywood productions.
British actress Glynis Johns, best known for her role in Disney’s 1964 classic Mary Poppins, has died aged 100.
Johns died in Los Angeles, where she had been living in an assisted living home for the past few years, according to her manager Mitch Clem.
Born in South Africa while her parents – her mother was a concert pianist and her father the Welsh actor Mervyn Johns – were on tour, Johns’ grew up in the UK. In the 1940s and early fifties she appeared in a string of British films,...
British actress Glynis Johns, best known for her role in Disney’s 1964 classic Mary Poppins, has died aged 100.
Johns died in Los Angeles, where she had been living in an assisted living home for the past few years, according to her manager Mitch Clem.
Born in South Africa while her parents – her mother was a concert pianist and her father the Welsh actor Mervyn Johns – were on tour, Johns’ grew up in the UK. In the 1940s and early fifties she appeared in a string of British films,...
- 1/5/2024
- by John Hazelton
- ScreenDaily
Glynis Johns has sadly died.
The English actress, who played Mrs. Banks in the classic Mary Poppins, died Thursday (January 4) at the age of 100 at an assisted living home in Los Angeles, her manager Mitch Clem confirmed to Variety.
“Glynis powered her way through life with intelligence, wit, and a love for performance, affecting millions of lives. She entered my life early in my career and set a very high bar on how to navigate this industry with grace, class, and truth. Your own truth. Her light shined very brightly for 100 years. She had a wit that could stop you in your tracks powered by a heart that loved deeply and purely. Today is a somber day for Hollywood. Not only do we mourn the passing of our dear Glynis, but we mourn the end of the golden age of Hollywood,” her manager said in a statement.
Keep reading to find out more…...
The English actress, who played Mrs. Banks in the classic Mary Poppins, died Thursday (January 4) at the age of 100 at an assisted living home in Los Angeles, her manager Mitch Clem confirmed to Variety.
“Glynis powered her way through life with intelligence, wit, and a love for performance, affecting millions of lives. She entered my life early in my career and set a very high bar on how to navigate this industry with grace, class, and truth. Your own truth. Her light shined very brightly for 100 years. She had a wit that could stop you in your tracks powered by a heart that loved deeply and purely. Today is a somber day for Hollywood. Not only do we mourn the passing of our dear Glynis, but we mourn the end of the golden age of Hollywood,” her manager said in a statement.
Keep reading to find out more…...
- 1/4/2024
- by Just Jared
- Just Jared
British actor Glynis Johns, best known for playing the “Sister Suffragette”-singing mother Winifred Banks in the 1964 classic Mary Poppins, has died at 100.
According to Johns’ manager Mitch Clem, the actor passed away on Thursday (January 4th) from natural causes in a West Hollywood assisted living facility.
“Glynis powered her way through life with intelligence, wit, and a love for performance, affecting millions of lives,” Clem said in a statement. “She entered my life early in my career and set a very high bar on how to navigate this industry with grace, class, and truth. Your own truth. Her light shined very brightly for 100 years. She had a wit that could stop you in your tracks powered by a heart that loved deeply and purely.”
Born on October 5th, 1923, in Pretoria, South Africa to actor Mevyn Johns and concert pianist Alyce Steele-Wareham, Johns was raised in London, where she first...
According to Johns’ manager Mitch Clem, the actor passed away on Thursday (January 4th) from natural causes in a West Hollywood assisted living facility.
“Glynis powered her way through life with intelligence, wit, and a love for performance, affecting millions of lives,” Clem said in a statement. “She entered my life early in my career and set a very high bar on how to navigate this industry with grace, class, and truth. Your own truth. Her light shined very brightly for 100 years. She had a wit that could stop you in your tracks powered by a heart that loved deeply and purely.”
Born on October 5th, 1923, in Pretoria, South Africa to actor Mevyn Johns and concert pianist Alyce Steele-Wareham, Johns was raised in London, where she first...
- 1/4/2024
- by Emma Carey
- Consequence - Film News
English actor Glynis Johns, who played the daffy suffragette mother Mrs. Banks in the classic film “Mary Poppins,” died Thursday at an assisted living home in Los Angeles, her manager Mitch Clem confirmed to Variety. She was 100.
“Glynis powered her way through life with intelligence, wit, and a love for performance, affecting millions of lives,” Clem said in a statement. “She entered my life early in my career and set a very high bar on how to navigate this industry with grace, class, and truth. Your own truth. Her light shined very brightly for 100 years. She had a wit that could stop you in your tracks powered by a heart that loved deeply and purely. Today is a somber day for Hollywood. Not only do we mourn the passing of our dear Glynis, but we mourn the end of the golden age of Hollywood.”
Johns won a Tony for her...
“Glynis powered her way through life with intelligence, wit, and a love for performance, affecting millions of lives,” Clem said in a statement. “She entered my life early in my career and set a very high bar on how to navigate this industry with grace, class, and truth. Your own truth. Her light shined very brightly for 100 years. She had a wit that could stop you in your tracks powered by a heart that loved deeply and purely. Today is a somber day for Hollywood. Not only do we mourn the passing of our dear Glynis, but we mourn the end of the golden age of Hollywood.”
Johns won a Tony for her...
- 1/4/2024
- by Carmel Dagan
- Variety Film + TV
Glynis Johns, the upbeat leading lady with the British charm who starred as the spirited feminist mother Winifred Banks in Mary Poppins, has died. She was 100.
Johns lived in West Hollywood and died Thursday of natural causes at an assisted living facility in the area, her manager, Mitch Clem, told The Hollywood Reporter.
A multitalented actress, dancer, pianist and singer, Johns earned a best supporting actress Oscar nomination for playing the widowed saloon and hotel owner Mrs. Firth in Fred Zinnemann’s Australia-set The Sundowners (1960).
Plus, she memorably sang “Send in the Clowns,” which Stephen Sondheim wrote just for her, in her Tony Award-winning performance as Desiree Armfeldt in the original 1973 production of A Little Night Music.
The husky voiced Johns was nominated for a Golden Globe for portraying a daffy older socialite who is stirred by the young stud she meets on the beach in a then-controversial film about sex,...
Johns lived in West Hollywood and died Thursday of natural causes at an assisted living facility in the area, her manager, Mitch Clem, told The Hollywood Reporter.
A multitalented actress, dancer, pianist and singer, Johns earned a best supporting actress Oscar nomination for playing the widowed saloon and hotel owner Mrs. Firth in Fred Zinnemann’s Australia-set The Sundowners (1960).
Plus, she memorably sang “Send in the Clowns,” which Stephen Sondheim wrote just for her, in her Tony Award-winning performance as Desiree Armfeldt in the original 1973 production of A Little Night Music.
The husky voiced Johns was nominated for a Golden Globe for portraying a daffy older socialite who is stirred by the young stud she meets on the beach in a then-controversial film about sex,...
- 1/4/2024
- by Mike Barnes
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Joss Ackland, the veteran British stage and screen actor who was known for starring in “White Mischief” and “Lethal Weapon 2,” died on Sunday. He was 95.
“Joss was a long term client and great friend who remained lucid, erudite and mischievous to the very end, he died peacefully with his family this morning,” said his rep, Paul Pearson.
In Richard Donner’s “Lethal Weapon 2,” his villainous diplomat character notably utters the line “Diplomatic immunity!” before being shot by cop Roger Murtaugh, played by Danny Glover.
With over 130 film and television credits, Ackland appeared in a wide range of projects, including “K-19: The Widowmaker,” “Bill & Ted” and “The Hunt for Red October,” where he starred alongside Sean Connery and Alec Baldwin. His television work includes “Shadowlands,” where he played C.S. Lewis, and “Midsomer Murders.”
Ackland was made a Cbe for services to drama in 2001. He earned two BAFTA nominations...
“Joss was a long term client and great friend who remained lucid, erudite and mischievous to the very end, he died peacefully with his family this morning,” said his rep, Paul Pearson.
In Richard Donner’s “Lethal Weapon 2,” his villainous diplomat character notably utters the line “Diplomatic immunity!” before being shot by cop Roger Murtaugh, played by Danny Glover.
With over 130 film and television credits, Ackland appeared in a wide range of projects, including “K-19: The Widowmaker,” “Bill & Ted” and “The Hunt for Red October,” where he starred alongside Sean Connery and Alec Baldwin. His television work includes “Shadowlands,” where he played C.S. Lewis, and “Midsomer Murders.”
Ackland was made a Cbe for services to drama in 2001. He earned two BAFTA nominations...
- 11/19/2023
- by Caroline Brew
- Variety Film + TV
Jason Sudeikis and his old Saturday Night Live cast mate Will Forte were all set for a reunion duet at a Kansas City benefit concert over the weekend when one of Sudeikis’ more recent costars arrived to, musically at least, save the day: Ted Lasso‘s Hannah Waddingham.
Appearing at Steps of Faith’s Thundergong!, an annual Kansas City benefit event to raise funds for amputees, host Sudeikis began to sing A Star is Born‘s “Shallow” with special guest Forte when Waddingham muscled her way into the duet and stole the show.
Waddingham’s vocal chops might have surprised folks who only know the actress from her Emmy-winning turn as Rebecca Welton on Ted Lasso. In truth, she’s been nominated for three Olivier Awards for her West End musical performances in Spamalot, A Little Night Music and Kiss Me, Kate.
Now in its seventh year, Thundergong! 2023 raised more than $800,000 for Steps of Faith,...
Appearing at Steps of Faith’s Thundergong!, an annual Kansas City benefit event to raise funds for amputees, host Sudeikis began to sing A Star is Born‘s “Shallow” with special guest Forte when Waddingham muscled her way into the duet and stole the show.
Waddingham’s vocal chops might have surprised folks who only know the actress from her Emmy-winning turn as Rebecca Welton on Ted Lasso. In truth, she’s been nominated for three Olivier Awards for her West End musical performances in Spamalot, A Little Night Music and Kiss Me, Kate.
Now in its seventh year, Thundergong! 2023 raised more than $800,000 for Steps of Faith,...
- 11/13/2023
- by Greg Evans
- Deadline Film + TV
Born and raised in Ireland, Jessie Buckley has quickly made a name for herself in the world of acting and singing. Her talent and dedication have led to her recognition and success in both film and theatre, earning her nominations for prestigious awards such as the Academy Award and three BAFTA Awards.
Born on December 28, 1989, in Killarney, County Kerry, Ireland, Jessie was the eldest of five children. Her mother, Marina Cassidy, was a vocal coach and inspired Jessie’s early interest in music and the performing arts. Jessie attended the all-girls Ursuline Secondary School in Thurles, County Tipperary, where her mother worked. She took part in numerous school productions, often playing male lead roles, including Tony in West Side Story and Freddie Trumper in Chess1.
In addition to acting, Jessie demonstrated a deep passion for music. She achieved Grade eight in piano, clarinet, and harp at the Royal Irish Academy...
Born on December 28, 1989, in Killarney, County Kerry, Ireland, Jessie was the eldest of five children. Her mother, Marina Cassidy, was a vocal coach and inspired Jessie’s early interest in music and the performing arts. Jessie attended the all-girls Ursuline Secondary School in Thurles, County Tipperary, where her mother worked. She took part in numerous school productions, often playing male lead roles, including Tony in West Side Story and Freddie Trumper in Chess1.
In addition to acting, Jessie demonstrated a deep passion for music. She achieved Grade eight in piano, clarinet, and harp at the Royal Irish Academy...
- 11/4/2023
- by Movies Martin Cid Magazine
- Martin Cid Magazine - Movies
Natasha Richardson left a legacy for the ages upon her death in 2009. A classically trained performer, Richardson grew up surrounded by entertainers in the film industry and naturally joined the train. She honed her skills at London’s Central School of Speech and Drama, launching her career as a child actor. Natasha Richardson went on to build an illustrious career that spanned from 1968 to 2009. The actress was still active in her acting career at the time of her death. Richardson was set to perform in a Broadway revival of A Little Night Music with her mother, Vanessa Redgrave...
- 10/27/2023
- by Banks Onuoha
- TVovermind.com
Joanna Merlin, who created the role of the daughter Tzeitel in Fiddler on the Roof on Broadway and served as a casting director for Stephen Sondheim, Harold Prince and Bernardo Bertolucci, has died. She was 92.
Merlin died Sunday in Los Angeles of complications from myelodysplastic syndrome, a bone marrow disorder, her daughters, documentary filmmaker Rachel Dretzin (Keep Sweet: Pray and Obey) and actress Julie Dretzin (The Handmaid’s Tale), announced.
Merlin also portrayed the dance teacher Miss Berg in Alan Parker’s Fame (1980) and recurred as Judge Lena Petrovsky for more than a decade on NBC’s Law and Order: Svu.
Her acting résumé included the films Hester Street (1975), All That Jazz (1979), Baby It’s You (1983), The Killing Fields (1984), Mystic Pizza (1988), Class Action (1991) and City of Angels (1998) and such TV shows as Naked City, The Defenders, East Side/West Side, Homeland and The Good Wife.
Merlin cast the original Broadway productions of Sondheim’s Company,...
Merlin died Sunday in Los Angeles of complications from myelodysplastic syndrome, a bone marrow disorder, her daughters, documentary filmmaker Rachel Dretzin (Keep Sweet: Pray and Obey) and actress Julie Dretzin (The Handmaid’s Tale), announced.
Merlin also portrayed the dance teacher Miss Berg in Alan Parker’s Fame (1980) and recurred as Judge Lena Petrovsky for more than a decade on NBC’s Law and Order: Svu.
Her acting résumé included the films Hester Street (1975), All That Jazz (1979), Baby It’s You (1983), The Killing Fields (1984), Mystic Pizza (1988), Class Action (1991) and City of Angels (1998) and such TV shows as Naked City, The Defenders, East Side/West Side, Homeland and The Good Wife.
Merlin cast the original Broadway productions of Sondheim’s Company,...
- 10/17/2023
- by Mike Barnes
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Joanna Merlin, whose acting career stretched from Broadway (she was the original Tzeitel in Fiddler On The Roof), film (she played the dance teacher Miss Berg in Alan Parker’s 1980 film Fame) and TV (Law & Order: SVU‘s Judge Lena Petrovsky on dozens of episodes) has died. She was 92.
Her death was announced on the Instagram page of the New York University Tisch Graduate Acting Program, where Merlin had been on the faculty since 1998.
“Joanna was an actress, master Chekhov teacher, and former casting director for Harold Prince, Stephen Sondheim, Bernardo Bertolucci, and James Ivory,” the NYU message said, adding, “Joanna will be deeply missed at Grad Acting, by the Chekhov community, and by the many people she touched through her artistry.”
As a casting director, Merlin was involved in numerous landmark Broadway productions written by Stephen Sondheim. She was, for many years, Harold Prince’s go-to casting director.
A...
Her death was announced on the Instagram page of the New York University Tisch Graduate Acting Program, where Merlin had been on the faculty since 1998.
“Joanna was an actress, master Chekhov teacher, and former casting director for Harold Prince, Stephen Sondheim, Bernardo Bertolucci, and James Ivory,” the NYU message said, adding, “Joanna will be deeply missed at Grad Acting, by the Chekhov community, and by the many people she touched through her artistry.”
As a casting director, Merlin was involved in numerous landmark Broadway productions written by Stephen Sondheim. She was, for many years, Harold Prince’s go-to casting director.
A...
- 10/16/2023
- by Greg Evans
- Deadline Film + TV
When Sean Connery opened the envelope in 2003 for Best Supporting Actress, he simply pronounced the winner as “Catherine.” Such was the expectation of her win and the sensation she had caused in the film “Chicago” that his former co-star didn’t even feel the need to pronounce her full three names: Catherine Zeta-Jones.
Zeta-Jones initially was known to American audiences for her statuesque and striking beauty. She first gained notice on these shores in a television mini-series about the Titanic. The series aired a year before James Cameron‘s film of the Titanic story swept into movie theaters. She then began appearing on the big screen in a number of ingenue roles.
What American audiences didn’t know was that Zeta-Jones was hiding a couple of secret talents, namely that she was a superb singer and dancer. She had started out on the London stage when she was just a...
Zeta-Jones initially was known to American audiences for her statuesque and striking beauty. She first gained notice on these shores in a television mini-series about the Titanic. The series aired a year before James Cameron‘s film of the Titanic story swept into movie theaters. She then began appearing on the big screen in a number of ingenue roles.
What American audiences didn’t know was that Zeta-Jones was hiding a couple of secret talents, namely that she was a superb singer and dancer. She had started out on the London stage when she was just a...
- 9/22/2023
- by Robert Pius, Misty Holland and Chris Beachum
- Gold Derby
Exclusive: Shadowhunters alumna Katherine McNamara has signed with Independent Artist Group for representation.
McNamara is maybe best known for her starring role as Clary Fray on all three seasons of Freeform’s Shadowhunters, based on the bestselling The Mortal Instruments novels. She most recently starred as the title character of Abby Walker in CW’s Walker: Independence and in Charlie Day’s directorial debut film Fool’s Paradise starring Day, Ken Jeong, Kate Beckinsale and Adrien Brody.
McNamara also starred in the CW’s Arrow as Mia Smoak Queen (aka Blackstar/ Green Arrow). She
was recently seen in Paramount+ miniseries The Stand, opposite James Marsden, Whoopi Goldberg and Alexander Skarsgaard, as well as the independent feature Finding You opposite Vanessa Redgrave. She originated the role of Sonya in the second Maze Runner film The Scorch Trials, and she reprised the role in Maze Runner: The Death Cure alongside Dylan O’Brien and...
McNamara is maybe best known for her starring role as Clary Fray on all three seasons of Freeform’s Shadowhunters, based on the bestselling The Mortal Instruments novels. She most recently starred as the title character of Abby Walker in CW’s Walker: Independence and in Charlie Day’s directorial debut film Fool’s Paradise starring Day, Ken Jeong, Kate Beckinsale and Adrien Brody.
McNamara also starred in the CW’s Arrow as Mia Smoak Queen (aka Blackstar/ Green Arrow). She
was recently seen in Paramount+ miniseries The Stand, opposite James Marsden, Whoopi Goldberg and Alexander Skarsgaard, as well as the independent feature Finding You opposite Vanessa Redgrave. She originated the role of Sonya in the second Maze Runner film The Scorch Trials, and she reprised the role in Maze Runner: The Death Cure alongside Dylan O’Brien and...
- 9/8/2023
- by Denise Petski
- Deadline Film + TV
New York City Opera’s Bryant Park summer series continues with From Vienna to Broadway!, a charming review of songs, duets, and ensembles that takes the audience on a musical journey through the 20th century. Beginning with Lehar’s The Merry Widow from 1905 and culminating with Sondhiem’s A Little Night Music from 1973, and in between featuring works by Herbert, Romberg, Gershwin, Loesser, and Bernstein, this performance features a stellar cast of seven New York City Opera stars. Performances are designed to be enjoyed casually – no tickets required – with ample seating available and free picnic blankets for audience members to borrow. For more information, visit https://bryantpark.org/calendar/event/new-york-city-opera-from-vienna-to-broadway/2023-08-18.
For anyone unable to attend in person, free livestream broadcasts of the performances will be available nationwide via Bryant Park’s website and social media platforms.
“We are delighted to return as a part Bryant Park Picnic...
For anyone unable to attend in person, free livestream broadcasts of the performances will be available nationwide via Bryant Park’s website and social media platforms.
“We are delighted to return as a part Bryant Park Picnic...
- 8/16/2023
- by Martin Cid Magazine
- Martin Cid Music
Jodie Comer has become the 100th performer to win a Tony Award for their Broadway debut for her performance in the play, “Prima Facie.”
She won Best Actress in a Play for portraying Tess, a lawyer who concentrates in providing legal defense for men who are accused of sexual assault but soon has the unthinkable happen to her. She is the 11th person to win the category for her first outing on a Broadway stage. She joins:
SEE2023 Tony Awards: Every winner (and nominee) in all 26 competitive categories
Martita Hunt, “The Madwoman of Chaillot” (1949)
Beryl Reid, “The Killing of Sister George” (1967)
Phyllis Frelich, “Children of a Lesser God” (1980)
Jane Lapotaire, “Piaf” (1981)
Joan Allen, “Burn This” (1988)
Pauline Collins, “Shirley Valentine” (1989)
Janet McTeer, “A Doll’s House” (1997)
Marie Mullen, “The Beauty Queen of Leeane” (1998)
Jennifer Ehle, “The Real Thing” (2000)
Deanna Dunagan, “August: Osage County” (2008)
Below are the Broadway debuts in the seven other...
She won Best Actress in a Play for portraying Tess, a lawyer who concentrates in providing legal defense for men who are accused of sexual assault but soon has the unthinkable happen to her. She is the 11th person to win the category for her first outing on a Broadway stage. She joins:
SEE2023 Tony Awards: Every winner (and nominee) in all 26 competitive categories
Martita Hunt, “The Madwoman of Chaillot” (1949)
Beryl Reid, “The Killing of Sister George” (1967)
Phyllis Frelich, “Children of a Lesser God” (1980)
Jane Lapotaire, “Piaf” (1981)
Joan Allen, “Burn This” (1988)
Pauline Collins, “Shirley Valentine” (1989)
Janet McTeer, “A Doll’s House” (1997)
Marie Mullen, “The Beauty Queen of Leeane” (1998)
Jennifer Ehle, “The Real Thing” (2000)
Deanna Dunagan, “August: Osage County” (2008)
Below are the Broadway debuts in the seven other...
- 6/12/2023
- by Charles Bright
- Gold Derby
Chicago – One of the peculiar secrets … since revealed … in the new Apple TV+ series “High Desert” is that the icon Bernadette Peters portrays two characters. One is the mother (Rosalyn) of main character Peggy, and the other is mysterious actor Ginger who somehow ended up in California desert country. New episodes drop every Wednesday.
“High Desert” features Peggy Newman (Patricia Arquette), an ex-heroin addict who lives in arid California and needs a life change. That is difficult, for besides her visits to a local methadone clinic she is just barely holding on as a performer in Pioneer Town, a rundown tourist attraction. The only thing she desperately wants to cling to is the house of her deceased mother (Bernadette Peters), but her sister Dianne (Christine Taylor) is intent on selling it. Peggy needs to raise some extra cash, so she comes up with a plan to become a private investigator,...
“High Desert” features Peggy Newman (Patricia Arquette), an ex-heroin addict who lives in arid California and needs a life change. That is difficult, for besides her visits to a local methadone clinic she is just barely holding on as a performer in Pioneer Town, a rundown tourist attraction. The only thing she desperately wants to cling to is the house of her deceased mother (Bernadette Peters), but her sister Dianne (Christine Taylor) is intent on selling it. Peggy needs to raise some extra cash, so she comes up with a plan to become a private investigator,...
- 5/29/2023
- by adam@hollywoodchicago.com (Adam Fendelman)
- HollywoodChicago.com
Chicago – How has actor/singer/Broadway icon Bernadette Peters ended up in the arid lands of California? She is featured in the new Apple TV+ series “High Desert.” It has an ensemble cast led by Patricia Arquette as Peggy Newman, a recovering human being in an odd and spiritual place. The series begins streaming on May 17th.
Newman is an ex-heroin addict who realizes her life needs to begin again. That is difficult, for besides her visits to a local methadone clinic, she is just barely holding on as a performer in Pioneertown, a rundown tourist attraction. The only thing she desperately wants to cling to is the house of her deceased mother (Bernadette Peters), but her sister Dianne (Christine Taylor) is intent on selling it. Peggy needs to raise some extra cash, so she comes up with a plan to become a private investigator, in the office of Bruce...
Newman is an ex-heroin addict who realizes her life needs to begin again. That is difficult, for besides her visits to a local methadone clinic, she is just barely holding on as a performer in Pioneertown, a rundown tourist attraction. The only thing she desperately wants to cling to is the house of her deceased mother (Bernadette Peters), but her sister Dianne (Christine Taylor) is intent on selling it. Peggy needs to raise some extra cash, so she comes up with a plan to become a private investigator, in the office of Bruce...
- 5/17/2023
- by adam@hollywoodchicago.com (Adam Fendelman)
- HollywoodChicago.com
Barbara Bryne, a British actress who worked in stage, television, and film during a decades-long career, died Tuesday at age 94. Her death was confirmed by the Guthrie Theater in Minneapolis, but no cause was given.
Bryne’s best-known stage roles were in the original Broadway productions of Stephen Sondheim’s Sunday in the Park With George and Into the Woods. She played mothers in both shows.
“Barbara was a cherished member of the Guthrie family,” theater reps said in a statement, “and we’re grateful she shared her artistry with us for so many seasons. Her legacy will live on at the Guthrie and in our hearts forever.”
Bryne was nominated for a Drama Desk Award in 1982 for her off-off-Broadway performance as Kath in a revival of the Joe Orton-written Entertaining Mr. Sloane.
Her theater resume includes a revival of Noël Coward’s Hay Fever, working with Mandy Patinkin...
Bryne’s best-known stage roles were in the original Broadway productions of Stephen Sondheim’s Sunday in the Park With George and Into the Woods. She played mothers in both shows.
“Barbara was a cherished member of the Guthrie family,” theater reps said in a statement, “and we’re grateful she shared her artistry with us for so many seasons. Her legacy will live on at the Guthrie and in our hearts forever.”
Bryne was nominated for a Drama Desk Award in 1982 for her off-off-Broadway performance as Kath in a revival of the Joe Orton-written Entertaining Mr. Sloane.
Her theater resume includes a revival of Noël Coward’s Hay Fever, working with Mandy Patinkin...
- 5/4/2023
- by Bruce Haring
- Deadline Film + TV
Barbara Bryne, the British actress who portrayed mothers in the original Broadway productions of Stephen Sondheim’s Sunday in the Park With George and Into the Woods, has died. She was 94.
Bryne’s death Tuesday was announced by the Guthrie Theater in Minneapolis. The first of her more than 60 plays there was Arsenic and Old Lace in 1970, and she performed in 20-plus productions from 1998-2013, including a memorable turn in 1999 as Lady Bracknell in The Importance of Being Earnest.
“Barbara was a cherished member of the Guthrie family,” theater reps said in a statement, “and we’re grateful she shared her artistry with us for so many seasons. Her legacy will live on at the Guthrie and in our hearts forever.”
The delightful Bryne was nominated for a Drama Desk Award in 1982 for her off-off-Broadway performance as Kath in a revival of the Joe Orton-written Entertaining Mr. Sloane. Three years later,...
Bryne’s death Tuesday was announced by the Guthrie Theater in Minneapolis. The first of her more than 60 plays there was Arsenic and Old Lace in 1970, and she performed in 20-plus productions from 1998-2013, including a memorable turn in 1999 as Lady Bracknell in The Importance of Being Earnest.
“Barbara was a cherished member of the Guthrie family,” theater reps said in a statement, “and we’re grateful she shared her artistry with us for so many seasons. Her legacy will live on at the Guthrie and in our hearts forever.”
The delightful Bryne was nominated for a Drama Desk Award in 1982 for her off-off-Broadway performance as Kath in a revival of the Joe Orton-written Entertaining Mr. Sloane. Three years later,...
- 5/3/2023
- by Mike Barnes
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Catherine Zeta-Jones could edge ever closer to becoming a member of the exclusive Egot club with her guest role in Netflix’s hit comedy series “Wednesday.” So far, only 18 people have achieved the feat of winning an Egot, which means winning the top prize in the four major entertainment fields of TV (Emmy), music (Grammy), film (Oscar), and theater (Tony).
Zeta-Jones is currently halfway there. She won an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for “Chicago” in 2003 and then won a Tony Award in 2010 for Best Actress in a Musical for “A Little Night Music.” She has never been up for a Grammy herself, although “Chicago” did win the Grammy for Best Compilation Soundtrack Album for a Motion Picture, Television or Other Visual Media. This award is given to the producers of the compilation soundtrack and not the specific performers of the songs themselves — performers are only credited as “various artists,...
Zeta-Jones is currently halfway there. She won an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for “Chicago” in 2003 and then won a Tony Award in 2010 for Best Actress in a Musical for “A Little Night Music.” She has never been up for a Grammy herself, although “Chicago” did win the Grammy for Best Compilation Soundtrack Album for a Motion Picture, Television or Other Visual Media. This award is given to the producers of the compilation soundtrack and not the specific performers of the songs themselves — performers are only credited as “various artists,...
- 5/2/2023
- by Jacob Sarkisian
- Gold Derby
Hannah Waddingham will star and executive produce a new musical holiday special for Apple TV+.
“Hannah Waddingham: Home for Christmas” is set to feature performances of festive classics by the “Ted Lasso” star as well as special surprise guests.
The special, which will be recorded in front of an audience at the London Coliseum, will be produced by Done + Dusted and directed by BAFTA Award-winner Hamish Hamilton. In addition to Waddingham, Katy Mullan, Moira Ross, Raj Kapoor and Nick Todisco serve as executive producers.
“Hannah Waddingham: Home for Christmas” marks the first holiday special for the actress and the latest collaboration for Apple TV+ and Done + Dusted’s Katy Mullan, which includes “My Kind of Country,” Apple’s first competition series about the global search for unconventional and extraordinary country music talent. Apple TV+ also previously collaborated with director Hamilton and Done + Dusted on its first holiday special, the Emmy...
“Hannah Waddingham: Home for Christmas” is set to feature performances of festive classics by the “Ted Lasso” star as well as special surprise guests.
The special, which will be recorded in front of an audience at the London Coliseum, will be produced by Done + Dusted and directed by BAFTA Award-winner Hamish Hamilton. In addition to Waddingham, Katy Mullan, Moira Ross, Raj Kapoor and Nick Todisco serve as executive producers.
“Hannah Waddingham: Home for Christmas” marks the first holiday special for the actress and the latest collaboration for Apple TV+ and Done + Dusted’s Katy Mullan, which includes “My Kind of Country,” Apple’s first competition series about the global search for unconventional and extraordinary country music talent. Apple TV+ also previously collaborated with director Hamilton and Done + Dusted on its first holiday special, the Emmy...
- 4/20/2023
- by Lucas Manfredi
- The Wrap
Hannah Waddingham is set to star in a musical holiday special for Apple TV+.
Titled “Hannah Waddingham: Home for Christmas,” the special will feature Waddingham and surprise guests in performances and musical numbers. It will be recorded live in front of an audience at the London Coliseum, with Waddingham accompanied by her Big band.
The special will be produced by Done + Dusted and directed bywinner Hamish Hamilton. Waddingham will also executive produce along with Katy Mullan, Moira Ross, Raj Kapoor, and Nick Todisco. Done + Dusted previously collaborated with Apple on “Mariah Carey’s Magical Christmas Special
Waddingham can currently be seen in Season 3 of the hit Apple comedy series “Ted Lasso,” for which she won the Emmy Award for best supporting actress in a comedy in 2021. She is also set to co-host the 2023 Eurovision Song Contest. Her other acting credits include hit shows like “Game of Thrones” at HBO and “Sex Education” at Netflix,...
Titled “Hannah Waddingham: Home for Christmas,” the special will feature Waddingham and surprise guests in performances and musical numbers. It will be recorded live in front of an audience at the London Coliseum, with Waddingham accompanied by her Big band.
The special will be produced by Done + Dusted and directed bywinner Hamish Hamilton. Waddingham will also executive produce along with Katy Mullan, Moira Ross, Raj Kapoor, and Nick Todisco. Done + Dusted previously collaborated with Apple on “Mariah Carey’s Magical Christmas Special
Waddingham can currently be seen in Season 3 of the hit Apple comedy series “Ted Lasso,” for which she won the Emmy Award for best supporting actress in a comedy in 2021. She is also set to co-host the 2023 Eurovision Song Contest. Her other acting credits include hit shows like “Game of Thrones” at HBO and “Sex Education” at Netflix,...
- 4/20/2023
- by Joe Otterson
- Variety Film + TV
It was the battle of the Stephens at the 27th annual Tony Awards telecast March 25, 1973 on ABC from the Imperial Theatre. In one corner was Stephen Sondheim’s glorious and exquisite romantic musical “A Little Night Music” based on Ingmar Bergman’s 1955 comedy “Smiles of a Summer Night.” And in the other corner, 25-year-old Stephen Schwartz’s hip, cool, Fosse Fosse Fosse musical “Pippin.”
“A Little Night Music,” which featured song memorable tunes as “Send in the Clowns” and “A Weekend in the Country,” waltzed into the ceremony hosted by Rex Harrison and Celeste Holm and co-hosted by Sandy Duncan and Jerry Orbach with 12 nominations including best musical, best original score, best book for Hugh Wheeler, best direction of a musical for Harold Prince, best performance by a leading actress in a musical for Glynis Johns, leading actor in a musical for Len Cariou, featured actress in a musical for...
“A Little Night Music,” which featured song memorable tunes as “Send in the Clowns” and “A Weekend in the Country,” waltzed into the ceremony hosted by Rex Harrison and Celeste Holm and co-hosted by Sandy Duncan and Jerry Orbach with 12 nominations including best musical, best original score, best book for Hugh Wheeler, best direction of a musical for Harold Prince, best performance by a leading actress in a musical for Glynis Johns, leading actor in a musical for Len Cariou, featured actress in a musical for...
- 4/5/2023
- by Susan King
- Gold Derby
Pictured: Casting directors Katja Zarolinski and Geoff Josselson of Jz Casting.
This article first appeared as part of Jenelle Riley’s Acting Up newsletter – to subscribe for early content and weekly updates on all things acting, visit the Acting Up signup page.
Casting director Geoff Josselson just checked off a major bucket list item. When he was asked what show he dreamed of casting, he would say “Into the Woods.” And just last year, working with Telsey Casting, Josselson was part of the team that assembled the heralded Broadway revival starring Sara Bareilles, Brian D’Arcy James and Joshua Henry. Josselson is on a bit of a Stephen Sondheim spree — with Telsey he also helped cast the new production of “Sweeney Todd,” starring Josh Groban and Annaleigh Ashford. And he and his partner at Jz Casting, Katja Zarolinski, just collaborated for the first time with the Pasadena Playhouse to cast “A Little Night Music,...
This article first appeared as part of Jenelle Riley’s Acting Up newsletter – to subscribe for early content and weekly updates on all things acting, visit the Acting Up signup page.
Casting director Geoff Josselson just checked off a major bucket list item. When he was asked what show he dreamed of casting, he would say “Into the Woods.” And just last year, working with Telsey Casting, Josselson was part of the team that assembled the heralded Broadway revival starring Sara Bareilles, Brian D’Arcy James and Joshua Henry. Josselson is on a bit of a Stephen Sondheim spree — with Telsey he also helped cast the new production of “Sweeney Todd,” starring Josh Groban and Annaleigh Ashford. And he and his partner at Jz Casting, Katja Zarolinski, just collaborated for the first time with the Pasadena Playhouse to cast “A Little Night Music,...
- 3/24/2023
- by Jenelle Riley
- Variety Film + TV
Henry Fonda, actor (1905-82)
Grammy: Best Spoken Word Album, “Great Documents” (1977)
Oscar: Best Actor, “On Golden Pond” (1981)
Tony: Best Actor, “Mister Roberts” (1948); Best Actor, “Clarence Darrow” (1975)
Oscar Hammerstein II, lyricist and producer (1895-1960)
Grammy: Best Original Cast Album, “The Sound of Music” (1960)
Oscar: Best Original Song, “The Last Time I Saw Paris” from “Lady Be Good” (1941); “It Might As Well Be Spring” from “State Fair” (1945)
Tony: Three awards for “South Pacific” (1950); Best Musical, “The King and I” (1952); Best Musical, “The Sound of Music” (1960)
Elton John
Grammy: Best Pop Performance by a Duo or Group, “That’s What Friends Are For” (1986); Best Instrumental Composition, “Basque” (1991); Best Male Pop Vocal Performance, “Can You Feel the Love Tonight” (1994); Best Male Pop Vocal Performance, “Candle in the Wind” (1997); Best Show Album, “Aida” (2000)
Oscar: Best Original Son, “Can You Feel the Love Tonight” from “The Lion King” (1994)
Tony: Best Score, “Aida” (2000)
John Legend, songwriter and...
Grammy: Best Spoken Word Album, “Great Documents” (1977)
Oscar: Best Actor, “On Golden Pond” (1981)
Tony: Best Actor, “Mister Roberts” (1948); Best Actor, “Clarence Darrow” (1975)
Oscar Hammerstein II, lyricist and producer (1895-1960)
Grammy: Best Original Cast Album, “The Sound of Music” (1960)
Oscar: Best Original Song, “The Last Time I Saw Paris” from “Lady Be Good” (1941); “It Might As Well Be Spring” from “State Fair” (1945)
Tony: Three awards for “South Pacific” (1950); Best Musical, “The King and I” (1952); Best Musical, “The Sound of Music” (1960)
Elton John
Grammy: Best Pop Performance by a Duo or Group, “That’s What Friends Are For” (1986); Best Instrumental Composition, “Basque” (1991); Best Male Pop Vocal Performance, “Can You Feel the Love Tonight” (1994); Best Male Pop Vocal Performance, “Candle in the Wind” (1997); Best Show Album, “Aida” (2000)
Oscar: Best Original Son, “Can You Feel the Love Tonight” from “The Lion King” (1994)
Tony: Best Score, “Aida” (2000)
John Legend, songwriter and...
- 8/29/2022
- by Thom Geier
- The Wrap
Broadway’s legendary Angela Lansbury will receive the 2022 Special Tony Award for Lifetime Achievement in the Theatre, the Tony Awards Administration Committee announced today.
“Angela Lansbury’s contributions to the stage are insurmountable,” said Charlotte St. Martin, President of The Broadway League and Heather Hitchens, President and CEO of the American Theatre Wing. “From her groundbreaking role in Mame to her iconic performances in Deuce and Sweeney Todd, and most recently, in the revival of A Little Night Music, Ms. Lansbury has given us a lifetime of unforgettable performances, and it is a great honor to present her with the 2022 Lifetime Achievement Award.”
Lansbury made her Broadway debut in 1957 in Hotel Paradiso, followed by A Taste of Honey (1960), Anyone Can Whistle (1964), and, winning her first Tony, Mame (1966). She also won Tonys for Dear World (1969), Gypsy (1974) and Sweeney Todd (1979).
After a 24-year hiatus, she returned to Broadway in Deuce (2007), followed by...
“Angela Lansbury’s contributions to the stage are insurmountable,” said Charlotte St. Martin, President of The Broadway League and Heather Hitchens, President and CEO of the American Theatre Wing. “From her groundbreaking role in Mame to her iconic performances in Deuce and Sweeney Todd, and most recently, in the revival of A Little Night Music, Ms. Lansbury has given us a lifetime of unforgettable performances, and it is a great honor to present her with the 2022 Lifetime Achievement Award.”
Lansbury made her Broadway debut in 1957 in Hotel Paradiso, followed by A Taste of Honey (1960), Anyone Can Whistle (1964), and, winning her first Tony, Mame (1966). She also won Tonys for Dear World (1969), Gypsy (1974) and Sweeney Todd (1979).
After a 24-year hiatus, she returned to Broadway in Deuce (2007), followed by...
- 5/23/2022
- by Greg Evans
- Deadline Film + TV
Angela Lansbury will be honored for her lifetime achievements at the 2022 Tony Awards.
The actress, who has won five Tonys over her 75-year career, will be receiving the 2022 Special Tony Award for Lifetime Achievement in the Theatre.
“Angela Lansbury’s contributions to the stage are insurmountable,” said Charlotte St. Martin, President of The Broadway League and Heather Hitchens, President and CEO of the American Theatre Wing. “From her groundbreaking role in ‘Mame; to her iconic performances in ‘Deuce’ and ‘Sweeney Todd,’ and most recently, in the revival of ‘A Little Night Music,’ Ms. Lansbury has given us a lifetime of unforgettable performances, and it is a great honor to present her with the 2022 Lifetime Achievement Award.”
Lansbury made her Broadway debut in 1957, when she starred in “Hotel Paradiso.” She won her first Tony less than a decade later for her 1966 performance in “Mame.” She also won Tonys for “Dear World...
The actress, who has won five Tonys over her 75-year career, will be receiving the 2022 Special Tony Award for Lifetime Achievement in the Theatre.
“Angela Lansbury’s contributions to the stage are insurmountable,” said Charlotte St. Martin, President of The Broadway League and Heather Hitchens, President and CEO of the American Theatre Wing. “From her groundbreaking role in ‘Mame; to her iconic performances in ‘Deuce’ and ‘Sweeney Todd,’ and most recently, in the revival of ‘A Little Night Music,’ Ms. Lansbury has given us a lifetime of unforgettable performances, and it is a great honor to present her with the 2022 Lifetime Achievement Award.”
Lansbury made her Broadway debut in 1957, when she starred in “Hotel Paradiso.” She won her first Tony less than a decade later for her 1966 performance in “Mame.” She also won Tonys for “Dear World...
- 5/23/2022
- by Katie Campione
- The Wrap
Cameron Mackintosh, the London theatre owner and impresario, nixed the idea of having a host introduce artists performing at Tuesday’s one-night-only Old Friends tribute show honoring the legacy of musical theatre genius Stephen Sondheim, who died in November at age 91.
“All you need are Steve’s words and music, and our cast. They speak, or rather sing, for themselves,“ Mackintosh explained to Deadline before the star-studded event began at London’s Stephen Sondheim Theatre.
Worked like a treat. Thirty minutes saved, because Old Friends wasn’t lumbered with a host.
In any case, no one needed to introduce actress Julia McKenzie when she walked onto the stage, for it was she who, with Mackintosh producing, was part of an ensemble that super-spread Sondheim in the West End over four decades ago with a revue entitled Side By Side by Sondheim.
She’s one of the composer and lyricist’s foremost interpreters.
“All you need are Steve’s words and music, and our cast. They speak, or rather sing, for themselves,“ Mackintosh explained to Deadline before the star-studded event began at London’s Stephen Sondheim Theatre.
Worked like a treat. Thirty minutes saved, because Old Friends wasn’t lumbered with a host.
In any case, no one needed to introduce actress Julia McKenzie when she walked onto the stage, for it was she who, with Mackintosh producing, was part of an ensemble that super-spread Sondheim in the West End over four decades ago with a revue entitled Side By Side by Sondheim.
She’s one of the composer and lyricist’s foremost interpreters.
- 5/4/2022
- by Baz Bamigboye
- Deadline Film + TV
Kathryn Hays, who played Kim Hughes on the CBS soap opera “As the World Turns,” from 1972 to 2010, died on March 25 in Fairfield, Connecticut at the age of 87, TVLine reported.
No cause of death was shared. Her reps did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
In a statement, actor Don Hastings, who played her character’s husband, Bob Hughes, on the long-running soap said, “Our relationship as Bob and Kim was as close as Kathryn and my relationship, except we were not married. We were more like brother and sister and we were great friends. Our biggest squabble was that she always wanted to rehearse and I wanted to take a nap. This is a huge loss to all who knew her.”
Besides her iconic role on “As the World Turns,” Hays had a memorable turn in the 1968 “Star Trek” episode “The Empath” as Gem, a mute alien who must...
No cause of death was shared. Her reps did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
In a statement, actor Don Hastings, who played her character’s husband, Bob Hughes, on the long-running soap said, “Our relationship as Bob and Kim was as close as Kathryn and my relationship, except we were not married. We were more like brother and sister and we were great friends. Our biggest squabble was that she always wanted to rehearse and I wanted to take a nap. This is a huge loss to all who knew her.”
Besides her iconic role on “As the World Turns,” Hays had a memorable turn in the 1968 “Star Trek” episode “The Empath” as Gem, a mute alien who must...
- 4/8/2022
- by Sharon Knolle
- The Wrap
Kathryn Hays, who played Kim on CBS’ As the World Turns for 38 years, died on March 25 in Fairfield, Conn. She was 87.
No cause of death has yet been stated.
More from TVLineS.W.A.T. #100 Sneak Peek: Hondo Watches Himself Commit Murder (?!)S.W.A.T. Renewed for Season 6TVLine Items: Timeless Vet Leads CBS Pilot, With Love Renewed and More
Hays’ career began in the early 1960s, with roles on series such as Hawaiian Eye, Dr. Kildare, Route 66, Bonanza and The Man from U.N.C.L.E. In 1966, in The Road West, she landed the role of Elizabeth Reynolds,...
No cause of death has yet been stated.
More from TVLineS.W.A.T. #100 Sneak Peek: Hondo Watches Himself Commit Murder (?!)S.W.A.T. Renewed for Season 6TVLine Items: Timeless Vet Leads CBS Pilot, With Love Renewed and More
Hays’ career began in the early 1960s, with roles on series such as Hawaiian Eye, Dr. Kildare, Route 66, Bonanza and The Man from U.N.C.L.E. In 1966, in The Road West, she landed the role of Elizabeth Reynolds,...
- 4/8/2022
- by Matt Webb Mitovich
- TVLine.com
Image Source: Getty / Matt Winkelmeyer
The 2022 Grammys featured an emotional performance from Rachel Zegler, Cynthia Erivo, Leslie Odom Jr., and Ben Platt. Their performance accompanied the In Memoriam montage, and they only sang songs by Broadway composer Stephen Sondheim. Sondheim, who wrote music for shows including "West Side Story," "Sweeney Todd, "Sunday in the Park With George," and "Company," died in November 2021 at the age of 91. During his lifetime, he was nominated for Grammys 17 times, winning seven times. He also received the Grammy's trustees award in 2008.
The group sang a montage of the Sondheim songs "Not a Day Goes By" from "Merrily We Roll Along," "Send In the Clowns" from "A Little Night Music," and "Somewhere" from "West Side Story." "Send In the Clowns" won the award for song of the year in 1976.
The four performers all have strong ties to the world of musical theater. In 2021, Zegler made her...
The 2022 Grammys featured an emotional performance from Rachel Zegler, Cynthia Erivo, Leslie Odom Jr., and Ben Platt. Their performance accompanied the In Memoriam montage, and they only sang songs by Broadway composer Stephen Sondheim. Sondheim, who wrote music for shows including "West Side Story," "Sweeney Todd, "Sunday in the Park With George," and "Company," died in November 2021 at the age of 91. During his lifetime, he was nominated for Grammys 17 times, winning seven times. He also received the Grammy's trustees award in 2008.
The group sang a montage of the Sondheim songs "Not a Day Goes By" from "Merrily We Roll Along," "Send In the Clowns" from "A Little Night Music," and "Somewhere" from "West Side Story." "Send In the Clowns" won the award for song of the year in 1976.
The four performers all have strong ties to the world of musical theater. In 2021, Zegler made her...
- 4/4/2022
- by Victoria Edel
- Popsugar.com
Cynthia Erivo, Leslie Odom Jr., Ben Platt, and Rachel Zegler joined forces for a rousing tribute to Stephen Sondheim during the 2022 Grammy awards ceremony on Sunday. The iconic Broadway composer and lyricist died on Nov. 26 at age 91 and led the In Memoriam segment of the Grammys.
The segment opened with a tribute to Foo Fighters drummer Taylor Hawkins, who died last month at the age of 50. The tribute blended interviews and backstage home movies with live footage, ending in an audience singalong of the group’s “My Hero.”
For the live portion,...
The segment opened with a tribute to Foo Fighters drummer Taylor Hawkins, who died last month at the age of 50. The tribute blended interviews and backstage home movies with live footage, ending in an audience singalong of the group’s “My Hero.”
For the live portion,...
- 4/4/2022
- by Althea Legaspi
- Rollingstone.com
Daniel Radcliffe will tackle Stephen Sondheim next season in a new revival of the 1981 musical Merrily We Roll Along at the Off Broadway New York Theatre Workshop.
The revival, to be directed by Maria Friedman and choreographed by Tim Jackson, is planned for a late 2022 opening, with full cast and specific production dates to be announced later.
Radcliffe, who appeared on Broadway in the musical How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying in 2011, will play Merrily‘s Charley, one of three longtime show business pals whose friendship is presented in reverse chronological order, from its sad dissolution to its hopeful beginning. Among the beloved Sondheim songs given to Charley are “Old Friends” and “Good Thing Going.”
The musical, featuring music and lyrics by Sondheim, book by George Furth and based on the original play by George S. Kaufman and Moss Hart, will complete Nytw’s 2022/23 season.
Friedman made her...
The revival, to be directed by Maria Friedman and choreographed by Tim Jackson, is planned for a late 2022 opening, with full cast and specific production dates to be announced later.
Radcliffe, who appeared on Broadway in the musical How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying in 2011, will play Merrily‘s Charley, one of three longtime show business pals whose friendship is presented in reverse chronological order, from its sad dissolution to its hopeful beginning. Among the beloved Sondheim songs given to Charley are “Old Friends” and “Good Thing Going.”
The musical, featuring music and lyrics by Sondheim, book by George Furth and based on the original play by George S. Kaufman and Moss Hart, will complete Nytw’s 2022/23 season.
Friedman made her...
- 3/7/2022
- by Greg Evans
- Deadline Film + TV
Catherine Zeta-Jones has joined the cast of “National Treasure,” the live-action series set for Disney+ inspired by the Nicolas Cage adventure films.
Zeta-Jones will be a leading series regular in the show alongside Lisette Alexis as the series lead. The new series focuses on a brilliant and resourceful DREAMer who embarks on the adventure of a lifetime to uncover the truth about her family’s mysterious past and save a lost Pan-American treasure.
Zeta-Jones will portray Billie, a badass billionaire, black-market antiquities expert and treasure hunter who lives by her own code. She transformed herself from a penniless orphan to a shrewd, stylish businesswoman and adventurer. Billie’s used to getting what she wants—and she wants the Pan-American treasure. But not just for the money. This treasure has deeper stakes for her.
Mira Nair is directing and executive producing the series. Production is set to begin this month in Baton Rouge.
Zeta-Jones will be a leading series regular in the show alongside Lisette Alexis as the series lead. The new series focuses on a brilliant and resourceful DREAMer who embarks on the adventure of a lifetime to uncover the truth about her family’s mysterious past and save a lost Pan-American treasure.
Zeta-Jones will portray Billie, a badass billionaire, black-market antiquities expert and treasure hunter who lives by her own code. She transformed herself from a penniless orphan to a shrewd, stylish businesswoman and adventurer. Billie’s used to getting what she wants—and she wants the Pan-American treasure. But not just for the money. This treasure has deeper stakes for her.
Mira Nair is directing and executive producing the series. Production is set to begin this month in Baton Rouge.
- 2/7/2022
- by Brian Welk
- The Wrap
Catherine Zeta-Jones has signed on as a co-lead opposite Lisette Alexis in National Treasure, Disney Branded Television’s TV series for Disney+ produced by ABC Signature.
The project, executive produced by the films’ producer Jerry Bruckheimer, director Jon Turteltaub and writers Marianne and Cormac Wibberley, is an expansion of the National Treasure movie franchise told from the point of view of young heroine Jess (Alexis) — a DREAMer in search of answers about her family — who embarks on the adventure of a lifetime to uncover the truth about the past and save a lost Pan-American treasure.
Oscar winner Zeta-Jones will play Billie, a badass billionaire, black-market antiquities expert, and treasure hunter who lives by her own code. She transformed herself from a penniless orphan to a shrewd, stylish businesswoman and adventurer. Billie’s used to getting what she wants—and she wants the Pan-American treasure. But not just for the money.
The project, executive produced by the films’ producer Jerry Bruckheimer, director Jon Turteltaub and writers Marianne and Cormac Wibberley, is an expansion of the National Treasure movie franchise told from the point of view of young heroine Jess (Alexis) — a DREAMer in search of answers about her family — who embarks on the adventure of a lifetime to uncover the truth about the past and save a lost Pan-American treasure.
Oscar winner Zeta-Jones will play Billie, a badass billionaire, black-market antiquities expert, and treasure hunter who lives by her own code. She transformed herself from a penniless orphan to a shrewd, stylish businesswoman and adventurer. Billie’s used to getting what she wants—and she wants the Pan-American treasure. But not just for the money.
- 2/7/2022
- by Nellie Andreeva
- Deadline Film + TV
Throughout 2021, we have been updating our “In Memoriam” photo gallery (view above). Scroll through to remember 33 entertainers from film, television, theater and music. Many were winners at the Oscars, Emmys, Grammys and/or Tonys. Here is a closer look at just a few of those we celebrate in our gallery:
Legendary composer Stephen Sondheim died on November 26 at age 91. He was a seven-time Tony Award winner for “Company,” “Follies,” “A Little Night Music,” “Sweeney Todd,” “Into the Woods” and “Passion.” He received a lifetime achievement Tony in 2008. He was an Oscar winner for “Dick Tracy” and a seven-time Grammy winner. Other well-known shows were “A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum,” “Pacific Overtures,” Merrily We Roll Along,” “Sunday in the Park with George” and “Assassins” plus “West Side Story” and “Gypsy” as a lyricist. He was also a recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom and Kennedy Center Honors.
Legendary composer Stephen Sondheim died on November 26 at age 91. He was a seven-time Tony Award winner for “Company,” “Follies,” “A Little Night Music,” “Sweeney Todd,” “Into the Woods” and “Passion.” He received a lifetime achievement Tony in 2008. He was an Oscar winner for “Dick Tracy” and a seven-time Grammy winner. Other well-known shows were “A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum,” “Pacific Overtures,” Merrily We Roll Along,” “Sunday in the Park with George” and “Assassins” plus “West Side Story” and “Gypsy” as a lyricist. He was also a recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom and Kennedy Center Honors.
- 12/29/2021
- by Chris Beachum
- Gold Derby
Sally Ann Howes, who began her acting career as a child and was best known for starring in “Chitty Chitty Bang Bang” opposite Dick Van Dyke, died on Dec. 19. She was 91.
Her death was confirmed by her nephew, Toby Howes, who tweeted: “I can also confirm the passing of my beloved Aunty Sally Ann Howes who died peacefully in her sleep yesterday. My brother & I thought Sally Ann might hold on until the Christmas screening of ‘Chitty Chitty Bang Bang’ as this would have greatly appealed to her mischievous side.”
“Chitty Chitty Bang Bang” is often broadcast on Christmas Day in the U.K.
In a career that spanned five decades, Howes racked up 40 film and television credits, having spent the latter half of her career focusing on the theater, including a part in Stephen Sondheim’s “A Little Night Music” at the New York City Opera in 1990.
Born in...
Her death was confirmed by her nephew, Toby Howes, who tweeted: “I can also confirm the passing of my beloved Aunty Sally Ann Howes who died peacefully in her sleep yesterday. My brother & I thought Sally Ann might hold on until the Christmas screening of ‘Chitty Chitty Bang Bang’ as this would have greatly appealed to her mischievous side.”
“Chitty Chitty Bang Bang” is often broadcast on Christmas Day in the U.K.
In a career that spanned five decades, Howes racked up 40 film and television credits, having spent the latter half of her career focusing on the theater, including a part in Stephen Sondheim’s “A Little Night Music” at the New York City Opera in 1990.
Born in...
- 12/22/2021
- by K.J. Yossman
- Variety Film + TV
Paul Thomas Anderson grew up in the San Fernando Valley, which played an important role in his 1997 breakthrough film “Boogie Nights,” which looked at Valley’s porn industry during the ‘70s and 80s. In his new United Artists release “Licorice Pizza,” Anderson returns to the Sfv for a nostalgia-tinged comedy-of-age story set in 1973 starring Cooper Hoffman and Alana Haim. Both young performers received strong notices with the L.A. Times’ Justin Chang declaring Haim as the true star of “this boisterous, bighearted movie and its raison d’être.” And Bradley Cooper has earned positive notices for his funny turn as hairdresser turned film producer Jon Peters, who ironically was a producer on Cooper’s 2018 “A Star is Born.”
So, what was the world like in 1973? It was the year of Watergate, Roe Vs. Wade and “The Exorcist” hitting the big screen. Let’s travel back almost half a century to look at the top films,...
So, what was the world like in 1973? It was the year of Watergate, Roe Vs. Wade and “The Exorcist” hitting the big screen. Let’s travel back almost half a century to look at the top films,...
- 12/2/2021
- by Susan King
- Gold Derby
Hulu’s upcoming comedy “Life & Beth” nabbed Laura Benanti for a recurring guest star role, Variety has learned exclusively.
Benanti will play Jane, a struggling mother, in the series from Amy Schumer, who writes, directs, executive produces and stars as the titular character.
While Beth’s life looks good on paper — from her job as a wine distributor to her long-term relationship and cosmopolitan life in Manhattan — a sudden incident forces her to engage with her past, which changes her life forever. The show will center flashbacks to teenage Beth, which allows her to realize how she became who she is, as well as think more deeply about who she still wants to become.
Benanti, who can currently be seen in Netflix’s “Tick, Tick… Boom!” adaptation and HBO Max’s reimagining of “Gossip Girl,” was already in production on “Life & Beth.”
Her other recent television credits include “Younger,...
Benanti will play Jane, a struggling mother, in the series from Amy Schumer, who writes, directs, executive produces and stars as the titular character.
While Beth’s life looks good on paper — from her job as a wine distributor to her long-term relationship and cosmopolitan life in Manhattan — a sudden incident forces her to engage with her past, which changes her life forever. The show will center flashbacks to teenage Beth, which allows her to realize how she became who she is, as well as think more deeply about who she still wants to become.
Benanti, who can currently be seen in Netflix’s “Tick, Tick… Boom!” adaptation and HBO Max’s reimagining of “Gossip Girl,” was already in production on “Life & Beth.”
Her other recent television credits include “Younger,...
- 12/2/2021
- by Danielle Turchiano
- Variety Film + TV
It can be said Stephen Sondheim was a man who rarely kept his opinions to himself. Nor should he have. As one of the greatest composers, lyricists, and purely creative forces in the history of American theater, Sondheim was a talent whose output in a handful of years could outstrip entire careers. Before he turned 30, he wrote the lyrics for West Side Story and Gypsy; by the time he was 50, he’d imagined whole cloth the 3/4 time swoons of A Little Night Music and the melodic hellfires burning beneath Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street.
Yet when it comes to Sweeney Todd, it might surprise many of his fans that he was never happier with a movie adaptation of a stage musical than while watching Tim Burton’s big and bloody reimagining of his music—and with Johnny Depp and Helena Bonham Carter’s limited vocal ranges, no less.
Yet when it comes to Sweeney Todd, it might surprise many of his fans that he was never happier with a movie adaptation of a stage musical than while watching Tim Burton’s big and bloody reimagining of his music—and with Johnny Depp and Helena Bonham Carter’s limited vocal ranges, no less.
- 11/30/2021
- by David Crow
- Den of Geek
For Christine Baranski and a generation of musical theater stars, Stephen Sondheim, the legendary Broadway composer who died on Friday at 91, was nothing less than a father figure, a musical giant and an inspiration.
“Even though he was 91 we are blindsided by the loss. We all feel like orphans,” Baranski told Variety as she paid tribute to the creative force behind such landmark theater productions as “West Side Story,” “Company,” “Sweeney Todd,” “Follies,” “A Little Night Music,” “Sunday in the Park With George,” “Merrily We Roll Along,” “Into the Woods” and “Assassins.”
Baranski got to know Sondheim well during the last decade or so of his life. For one, the two lived near each other in Connecticut. Baranski and Meryl Streep, who also lives nearby, took Sondheim to dinner over the summer. The music master was sharp and in good spirits at that time, Baranski said.
“Mentally he was so in shape.
“Even though he was 91 we are blindsided by the loss. We all feel like orphans,” Baranski told Variety as she paid tribute to the creative force behind such landmark theater productions as “West Side Story,” “Company,” “Sweeney Todd,” “Follies,” “A Little Night Music,” “Sunday in the Park With George,” “Merrily We Roll Along,” “Into the Woods” and “Assassins.”
Baranski got to know Sondheim well during the last decade or so of his life. For one, the two lived near each other in Connecticut. Baranski and Meryl Streep, who also lives nearby, took Sondheim to dinner over the summer. The music master was sharp and in good spirits at that time, Baranski said.
“Mentally he was so in shape.
- 11/27/2021
- by Cynthia Littleton
- Variety Film + TV
In his 91-year life, prolific composer and lyricist Stephen Sondheim crafted some of Broadway’s most iconic tunes. From “West Side Story” to “Into the Woods,” his music has stood the test of time and cemented him as a theater legend. The Broadway community paid tribute to Sondheim on Friday, with longtime collaborator Bernadette Peters writing, “He gave me so much to sing about. I loved him dearly and will miss him so much. Thank you for all the gifts you gave the world Steve.”
Meanwhile, Rachel Zegler, who plays Maria in the upcoming Steven Spielberg adaptation of “West Side Story,” recalled Sondheim’s profound impact on her love for musical theater. “Sweeney Todd was the first musical I ever comprehended. 5 years old, dancing around to ‘A Little Priest’ without knowing what it was about. My heart is so shattered. What a life.”
Sondheim racked up seven Tony awards over his career,...
Meanwhile, Rachel Zegler, who plays Maria in the upcoming Steven Spielberg adaptation of “West Side Story,” recalled Sondheim’s profound impact on her love for musical theater. “Sweeney Todd was the first musical I ever comprehended. 5 years old, dancing around to ‘A Little Priest’ without knowing what it was about. My heart is so shattered. What a life.”
Sondheim racked up seven Tony awards over his career,...
- 11/27/2021
- by Katcy Stephan
- Variety Film + TV
Stephen Sondheim, the legendary Broadway songwriter, has died at his home in Connecticut at the age of 91, according to The New York Times. The prolific composer and lyricist was the creative force behind some 20 musicals starting in 1954 — including West Side Story (lyrics), A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum, Follies, Sweeney Todd, Into the Woods, and more — as well as numerous film and TV projects, from adaptations of his Broadway hits to original songs for movies such as Dick Tracy and The Birdcage. Over his remarkable, seven-decade career,...
- 11/27/2021
- by Maria Fontoura
- Rollingstone.com
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