‘Gene & Gilda’ is a Love Letter to Them

Posted on December 11, 2024 by Karen Nowosad
Jordan Kai Burnett as Gilda and Jonathan Randell Silver as Gene – Photo Credit T. Charles Erickson

The George Street Playhouse presents Gene & Gilda in a limited run through December 22, 2024. The show is written by Cary Gitter and directed by Joe Brancato.

There are only two people in the cast: Jordan Kai Burnett who plays Gilda Radner
and Jonathan Randell Silver who plays Gene Wilder. Both of these players turn in performances that are warm and realistic. The best part of these two is the on stage chemistry that they have. This chemistry projects a strong sense of the identities that both of these people had. Additionally, it allows an audience to feel completely enveloped in their story.

Sets are basic and functionally used to tell the story. There is well written dialog which is well presented throughout the show to tell the story and allow the characters to develop.

George Street Playhouse’s Managing Director, Edward Herrera, wrote the following in the opening notes of the Program which sums up what this play brings:

“In a time when our world is marked by division and discord, the love between Gene Wilder and Gilda Radner stands as a testament to connection, resilience, and humor in the face of life’s trials.“

The Story Covers the Couple’s Time Together

The show opens with Gene Wilder doing an interview where he is asked to reflect back on Gilda. He is a little hesitant at first but as he speaks, Gilda, in spirit concept, comes on stage. The show becomes an exchange that they have about their lives together.

The dialog brings out the love between the two, but there are humorous moments as well. The entire production holds your interest as the years they are together are described.

We hear about how they met on the 1982 set of the movie of “Hanky Panky.” Gilda admits she was a bit scared meeting Gene as he was already a big star by then. He had already starred in some movie classics including The Producers, Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory, and the 1974 hit Young Frankenstein.

She certainly had nothing to be shy about as her own success was also riding high. That amazing work she did as a female comic was very apparent when she joined the first cast of Saturday Night Live. Here she created such memorable characters as Emily Litella, Roseannadanna, and her take off on Barbara Walters going by the name Baba Wawa. By the time she met Wilder, she had been on Saturday Night Live for more than 5 years, won an Emmy for her work there, and performed in a one woman show on Broadway.

Gilda was impressed with Gene when they met and he was intrigued with her innovative comedic style that people loved.

Although the film “Hanky Panky” was not a real success for either one, their relationship was established as they fell in love.

Marriage and Continued Work

Gene and Gilda were married in 1984 in the South of France. They developed a special love for this area of the world. The conversations that continue in the play bring out all of these aspects in addition to the encouragement each gave to the other.

In 1986, they began work on the movie Haunted Honeymoon. Gene wrote, directed, and acted in the film. Sadly, Gilda is diagnosed with ovarian cancer and it becomes the last screen appearance she has.

Gilda’s Death

Gilda’s death is well handled in this show. There could probably have been included about the gallant fight she made. Her decline becomes more evident. Eventually the scene on stage becomes that of the couple’s beloved location in France where it symbolically represents her death at age 42.

But what continues to come through in this show is the love and respect these two people had for each other. It is fair to say this is a type of love letter to both Gene and Gilda about their love and lives together.

To Go to the Show

Tickets to Gene & Gilda are now on sale at www.georgestreetplayhouse.org. Groups of 10 or more save 20 percent.

Live Stream Opportunity

You might be busy at this time of year or live out of the New Brunswick area. Here’s an opportunity see a live presentation of this play.

George Street Playhouse and The League of Live Theater will offer
two live streamed performances of Gene & Gilda. The simulcast performances
will air on Friday December 13 at 7:30pm ET and Saturday December 14 at
2:00pm and 7:30pm ET.

Additionally, George Street Playhouse and The League of Live
Stream Theater will also offer closed captioning for the final simulcast live
performance on Saturday December 14.

Tickets for these live streamed performances begin at $39 and are available for purchase at
www.lolst.org/geneandgilda.http://www.lolst.org/geneandgilda


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‘White Christmas’ at Paper Mill Playhouse is a Holiday Classic

Posted on December 7, 2024 by Karen Nowosad

The time honored classic movie White Christmas comes to life this month at Paper Mill Playhouse. Irving Berlin’s White Christmas the Musical is an enjoyable show for the entire family. The production, which is based off of the movie, uses music and lyrics by the great American songwriter Irving Berlin and a book David Ives and Paul Blake. This holiday favorite is a delight to see.

Paper Mill Playhouse’s Producing Artistic Director, Mark S. Hoebee, does a remarkable job directing this show. This 2 1/2 hour musical has a first rate cast who sing and dance and tell a story that is both heartwarming and enjoyable to see. This production features original Broadway choreography from Randy Skinner reproduced by Kristyn Pope. Original scenic design by Anna Louizos is coordinated by and with additional design for the production by Kelly James Tighe.

The beautiful original costume design by Carrie Robbins is coordinated by and with additional design by Antonio Consuegra. Sound design is by Matt Kraus. The hair, wig, and makeup design is by The Wig Associates (Krystal Belleza & Will Vicari). The Music Director is Cynthia Meng.

It Begins on Christmas Eve in 1944

It is always difficult to be away from home for the holiday season but especially when you are at war. The show opens with a troop of service men gather together “somewhere on the Western Front of World War II.” Among them are Bob Wallace (Max Clayton) and Phil Davis (Casey Garvin) who team up to put on a show for their fellow buddies. Clayton and Garvin turn in outstanding performances throughout the entire show. Joining them as the organizer of this World War II show is Ralph Sheldrake played by Reagan Pender who adds good humorous touches throughout the show.

HappyHolidays -Max Clayton (Bob Wallace) and Casey Garvin (Phil Davis) Photo Credit Jeremy Daniel

The show is dedicated to give a farewell to General Henry Waverly (Lance Roberts) before leaving the group. He is a well respected office whom the men look up to. Roberts plays his character as a stern man on the outside but with a heart of concern for his troops. His men respect him greatly as heard in the song “The Old Man.”

This is one of the most poignant scenes in the show as the song “White Christmas” plays. I remember watching the movie with my father. He was stationed in England during World War II. Hearing that title song got him emotional. It reminded him of how it felt to be so far away from home at the holidays. Irving Berlin wrote this song in 1942 during World War II when many people were away from home for the holidays. So there is nostalgia which lives on in this scene of the show.

Ten Years Later – A Lot Goes On

After World War II ends, Wallace and Davis continue their song and dance act and achieve great success. We are treated to a visit to the Ed Sullivan stage where old army buddy Ralph Sheldrake has also achieved success working for the Sullivan show. Wallace and Davis perform “Let Yourself Go” on the show.

“Let Yourself Go” – Casey Garvin (Phil Davis), Max Clayton (Bob Wallace), and the Cast of White Christmas – Photo credit Jeremy Daniel

Later, they meet the Haynes sisters. Judy (Keely Beirne) and Betty (Ashley Blanchet). This sister teams wows Wallace and Davis with their performance of “Sister.” Beirne and Blanchet turn in strong performances throughout the entire show.

“Sisters” Ashley Blanchet (Betty Haynes) and Keely Beirne(Judy Haynes)
Photo Credit Jeremy Daniel

Romantic sparks fly for Betty and Bob. Additionally, Judy and Phil show interest in each other in “The Best Things Happen When You’re Dancing.” Romance is in the air.

They all end up in Vermont where the sisters will be doing holiday shows. Low and behold, they come to a sweet Vermont inn owned by none other than General Waverly who they have not seen since that Christmas Eve in 1944.

When they find out he owns the inn, they also learn that there is no snow and that business is really bad. They learn all this from Martha who works at the inn. Later, Martha (Stacia Fernandez) gives a knock out rendition of “Let Me Sing and I’m Happy.”

The Show Within the Show

After learning about the General’s need for business, Wallace and Davis decide to bring the cast of the show they are producing up to stay and rehearse at the inn. This brings the performance of some of the most spectacular songs of the show. “Count Your Blessings and “Blue Skies” close out Act One.

Opening Act Two is “I Love a Piano.” This is a blockbuster moment in the show as the Paper Mill’s large stage is filled with tap dancing and singing.

I Love A Piano – Keely Beirne (Judy Haynes), Casey Garvin (Phil Davis), and the Cast of White Christmas – Photo Credit Jeremy Daniel

A secret plan is hatched to reunite the old army regiment that General Waverly led. The plan involves coming to the inn on Christmas Eve for a show. The hope is enough people will come to fill the inn and make up for cancellations due to the lack of snow.

Unfortunately, there are misunderstandings and the romances suffer. Betty leaves the show and goes solo in New York City. Bob attends her show and her performance of “Love You Didn’t Do Right By Me” provides one of the most thrilling performances in the show.

The Finale

This is a show that has a happy ending. All misunderstandings are cleared up. Romances are back on. The former army regiment members arrive and fill the inn. All is well.

Final songs include “The Old Man” which is a reprise of the version heard at the 1944 Christmas Eve show. As tribute is paid to General Waverly, he finally feels like things will work out.

The Old Man – Reagan Pender (Ralph Sheldrake), Casey Garvin (Phil Davis), Max Clayton (Bob Wallace), and Lance Roberts (General Henry Waverly) – Photo Credit Jeremy Daniel

The end of the show brings the entire cast onstage to sing “White Christmas” one last time. Be sure to watch as the illusion of snow falling appears.

Finale – The Cast of White Christmas – Photo Credit Jeremy Daniel

Additional Cast Members

In addition to the cast members mentioned above, there others who also deserve a round of applause for their fine performances in this show. They include:

Savannah Austin  and Annie Piper Braverman who share the role of Susan Waverly.

Ensemble members include: Claire Avakian, Lincoln Belford, Allison Blanchard, Lamont Brown, Sabrina Brush, Rhagan Carter, Sydney Chow, Kelly Gleason, Candice Hatakeyama, Drew King, Ryan Lambert, Cory Lingner, Alex Llorca, Carina-Kay Louchiey, Brady Miller, Larkin Reilly, Buzz Roddy, and Grace Marie Rusnica.

Go to See Irving Berlin’s White Christmas The Musical

Performances run now through Sunday, December 29 at Paper Mill Playhouse, 22 Brookside Drive, Millburn, NJ. Visit the Paper Mill’s website for show times and ticket purchases.

Accessibility performances are available through the run.

AUDIO-DESCRIBED PERFORMANCES – Scheduled for Sunday, December 22 at 1:30pm and Saturday, December 28 at 1:30pm.


OPEN-CAPTIONED & ASL- INTERPRETED PERFORMANCES – Scheduled for Saturday, December 28 at 1:30pm and Sunday, December 29 at 7:00pm.

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‘Macbeth’ at Shakespeare Theatre of NJ- Perfect for this Time of Year

Posted on October 25, 2024 by Karen Nowosad
Ray Fisher as Macbeth and Aurea Tomeski, Ellie Gossage, & Felix Mayes as the Witches. Photo by Avery Brunkus.

Macbeth – An Overview of a Fabulous Production

Macbeth is one of William Shakespeare’s most popular plays. Classified as a tragedy, the play provides a look at the lengths a man goes to in order to obtain and keep power. Power and politics: two things that drive people to do things they might not normally do. Such is the case with the characters and plot of Macbeth. That idea alone would be enough to go to see the play.

However, under the direction of Brian B. Crowe, this productio, now playing on the Main Stage of STNJ in Madison, is a must see during this season of 2024 political goings on. Additionally the play has a flair towards the supernatural and horror effects which makes for good Halloween viewing.

Audiences are treated to special effects which enhance the staging and presentation of the play. Put all of that together along with a strong cast of actors and you have a powerful theatrical production.

The Play Begins as You Enter the Theater

Upon entering the seating area of STNJ’s venue, the stage is set with netted panels and a rich looking display of raised backboards. Thunder and lightning flash and bang as you get to your seat and continues on creating a spooky atmosphere.

Throughout the play, the sound continues with varieties of special effects. Melanie Chen Cole, Sound Designer, provides effects which keeps you on the edge of your seat. At various points in the show, there are drums and dark sounding music.

Andrew Hungerford, Lighting Designer for the show, also helps to create that special feeling of uncertainty. The selection of lighting colors includes orange and hues of blue which radiate the background. When shining on the characters acting on stage, a definite sense of their mission is evident.

The Prophecy of the Three Witches

Excellent use of the three witches throughout the play gives a feeling of the macabre. Played by Ellie Gossage, Felix Mayes, and Aurea Tomeski, the three witches keep an active presence onstage. Their predictions guide the play as they stand at various locations watching what is going on. Their presence is fascinating to watch as we never get to see their faces. But the dark draping of their costumes, and the distortion of the sound of their voices adds a lot to that feeling of dread and horror which hangs over the plot.

As he returns from a battle in Scotland, Macbeth meets these witches in the woods and hears their three prophecies. This moves Macbeth into action as he hears the first prophecy: he will be a Thane.

The Story Moves Forward as the Lust for Power Grows

Ray Fisher as Macbeth. Photo by Avery Brunkus.

Ray Fisher turns in a strong performance as Macbeth. He begin as the victorious general along with Banquo (R. J. Foster) returning home when he meets the three witches. His reaction at hearing their predictions is one of thought and contemplation. But when he gets word that he is now a Thane, he realizes the first prediction has come true. He now begins to think about their second prediction which is that he will be named king.

Playing the role of Lady Macbeth is Erin Partin. Her intense portrayal shows Lady Macbeth move form being a strong woman who wants her husband to become king to the point where she descends into a state of madness. She encourages her husband to kill King Duncan (Earl Baker Jr.) which he does.

Thus begins a series of killings Macbeth does as a mean of holding his power. And as he kills, he steps further into the paranoia of what he is doing. The scenes of the killings are intensely mounted on stage. The sword fights are well choreographed by Doug West and in a few instances, you will hold your breath thinking the fight is getting close.

After Banquo’s death, the appearance of his ghost is startling as the lighting on his face highlights the incandescent glow of his spirit. He appears at a banquet table where only Macbeth can see him bringing him a step deeper into the terror he has created.

The haunting at the end of Act 1 is especially effective and sound distortions to the voices add to the horror.

Erin Partin as Lady Macbeth and Aurea Tomeski, Ellie Gossage, & Felix Mayes as the Witches. Photo by Avery Brunkus.

As Macbeth receives word of his wife’s death, he realizes his end is coming as well. But as he realizes he misinterpreted the witches’ words, he knows that he is doomed to die.

Go to See Macbeth

A hearty round of applause goes out the creatives, cast, crew, and director of Macbeth for producing such an intense play. It is one of Shakespeare’s tragedies. However, additional elements of the macabre bring some extra horror to the show. How far will a man go for power and what price does he pay? See this play for some insights on these questions.

Tickets for Macbeth are on sale now through The Shakespeare Theatre website, ShakespeareNJ.org, or by calling the box office at (973) 408-5600.

Performances will run from October 16 through November 17, 2024, at the F.M. Kirby Shakespeare Theatre located on the campus of Drew University in Madison, NJ.

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