New York sends some of its Broadway shows to Milwaukee's Marcus Center for the Performing Arts once again next season. The new (2006-'07) roadway Across America -- Milwaukee season will bring Molly Ringwald to town in "Sweet Charity," but we'll still have to wait for "The Lion King," "Wicked" and other big name Broadway shows to grace our city.
In the meantime, here's the Marcus Center's new season.
With Robert F. X. Sillerman's recent shelling out of $100 million for the rights to Elvis Presley's name, the first announced show might have some new buzz. The first show (Sept. 12-17) kicks it 1955-style, and Elvis-style. The touring production of "All Shook Up" features the Elvis classics, like "Heartbreak Hotel," "Love Me Tender" and "Don't Be Cruel."
"MAMMA MIA!" also comes back for a one-week run (November 21-26). It's a fun, quirky show for Abba fans.
The next announced show is "Dirty Rotten Scoundrels" (Jan. 2-7) You've probably seen the movie, it centers on two con men living on the French Riviera. It's based on a book by Jeffrey Lane and music and lyrics by David Yazbek.
The third show brings to life a true Broadway star "Chita Rivera -- The Dancer's Life" (May 22-27, 2007). Through song and dance, Rivera reflects on her journey from ballerina hopeful to Broadway star. You'll hear "West Side Story," "Chicago" and "Bye Bye Birdie" and see some amazing dance.
Starring as the ever-optimistic Charity Hope Valentine, Ringwald will search for love and dance her way into Milwaukee hearts in "Sweet Charity" (July 17-22, 2007). The show features "Hey, Big Spender," "There's Gotta Be Something Better Than This" and "If My Friends Could See Me Now." Christina Applegate played Charity last year on Broadway.
Four-show subscription packages go on sale Monday, March 27, at 10 a.m. Prices range from $87 to $317 depending upon performance time and seating preference. Season ticket information is available through the Broadway Across America -- Milwaukee hotline (Monday-Friday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.) at (800) 905-7469.
