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The Concept of Concert Musicals at Pasadena Playhouse
The Pasadena Playhouse, a renowned Tony Award-winning regional theater, has a mission to revive classic American musicals, with a focus on delivering high-quality performances to its community. Producing Artistic Director Danny Feldman has been envisioning a concert version of a classic musical featuring an all-star cast along with a full orchestra for several years. This ambitious idea was set to become a reality with two back-to-back performances, featuring Cole Porter’s iconic 1934 comedy, “Anything Goes,” followed by Stephen Sondheim’s cherished 1971 composition, “Follies.”
Event Schedule and Cast Information
The Playhouse announced three distinct performances scheduled over consecutive weekends at the Pasadena Civic Auditorium. The first act would be “Anything Goes,” set to be staged on January 25th and 26th, starring notable performers Jynx Monsoon, Wayne Brady, and J. Harrison Gee, under the direction of Annie Tippe. Following that, on January 31st and February 1st, “Follies,” directed by Lee Silverman and conducted by Rachel Bay Jones, was slated to take the stage, showcasing talents such as Stephanie J. Block, Derick Baskin, and Aaron Lazar.
Impact of the Eaton Fire on Community and Arts
However, the theatrical preparation was gravely overshadowed by the destructive Eaton Fire, which ignited across Los Angeles, claiming the lives of 10 people and wreaking havoc on countless homes, businesses, and cultural institutions. This catastrophic wildfire, which spanned over 13,956 acres in Altadena and Pasadena, enforced mandatory evacuations and posed significant health risks with hazardous air conditions. With many staff, executives, and artists connected to the Pasadena Playhouse being directly affected, the proximity of disaster necessitated immediate action.
Cancellation of Performances
On Friday, January 26th, Danny Feldman made the difficult decision to cancel all six performances of both musicals. The cancellation was driven by the overwhelming nature of the tragedy faced by community members. Feldman expressed his heartache, saying, “As much as we do it as a service to the community, we got to the point where it no longer makes sense to have people come together to build something in a smoky environment.” The decision prioritized the safety and well-being of everyone involved as the community grappled with loss.
Community Considerations and Future Outlook
In light of the ongoing disaster, Feldman acknowledged that for many, enjoying live performances might feel distant. “It’s very much an unknown, but two to three weeks from now, people may be ready to smile and have fun again. We need to work from now to make that happen,” he indicated. While the theater’s aspirations to bring back classic musicals to the region remain intact, the immediate focus is on the safety and recovery of their community amidst the disastrous atmospheric conditions.
Broader Implications for the Performing Arts in Los Angeles
The cancellation at the Pasadena Playhouse is not an isolated incident, as multiple other venues across Los Angeles are experiencing similar disruptions. The Hollywood Pantages Theater canceled performances of “Wicked,” while various other art institutions have been compelled to postpone or cancel events due to the ongoing wildfire crisis. This widespread impact highlights the challenges live performance venues face when confronted with large-scale disasters, and the necessity to prioritize health and safety over entertainment.
Conclusion
As the Pasadena Playhouse and other arts organizations navigate these unprecedented challenges, the commitment to community care takes precedence. The decisions made by these organizations underscore the need for balance between artistic aspirations and the empathetic response to widespread tragedy. While the anticipation for the performances remains palpable, the reality of the situation demands collective healing and attention to the urgent needs of affected families and individuals. The Pasadena Playhouse, amidst its challenges, remains poised to return with enriching performances when circumstances become favorable.
FAQs
1. When will the cancelled performances of “Anything Goes” and “Follies” be rescheduled?
At this time, there is no official rescheduling date due to ongoing concerns related to the wildfire. The theater will communicate directly with ticket holders regarding refunds and future ticket options.
2. How can community members help those affected by the fire?
Community members are encouraged to donate non-perishable food, clothing, and pet supplies at various theater venues serving as donation centers. Additionally, support for local organizations assisting those impacted by the fires is beneficial.
3. Are other theaters in Los Angeles also experiencing cancellations?
Yes, multiple theaters across Los Angeles are facing similar challenges, leading to postponements and cancellations of performances as communities prioritize safety and recovery efforts.
4. What steps is the Pasadena Playhouse taking to ensure safety for future performances?
The Pasadena Playhouse is closely monitoring the situation and will adhere to guidance from health officials to ensure a safe environment for both performers and audiences when performances resume.
5. How can I stay updated on future performances at the Pasadena Playhouse?
Individuals can stay informed about upcoming performances by visiting the Pasadena Playhouse’s official website or subscribing to their newsletter for the latest updates and announcements.
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