International Show Comes to Town
The 8 p.m. show, “100 Years of Broadway,” features five of the finest Broadway stars performing in such hits as “CATS,” “Les Miserables,” “Phantom of the Opera,” “Jesus Christ, Superstar,” and “Jekyll and Hyde.”
The multitalented players light up the stage with one show-stopping hit after another, featuring some of the most memorable scenes on stage.
According to Neil Berg, composer of the show, “100 Years” has outsold all the other shows and showcases the actual stars from five Broadway shows with a New York band. The popular event has featured such performers as Betty Buckley of “CATS,” Ben Vereen, and Bernadette Peters” among others.
Two years ago Berg brought his show to New York City for a one-night only tribute. The shows have been performed throughout New York venues from The Rainbow Room to The China Club and around the world as well.
Berg is the composer of “The Prince and the Pauper” (Off-Broadway) and “The Man Who Would Be King” among others. The appeal of the “100 Years” show is it’s all music and no dialogue.
Even the Broadway shows back in the 1890s were considered a “theatrical bounty” although today they wouldn’t merit much praise, according to research.
From 1885 a Japanese craze was apparent in Broadway shows as evidenced by “The Mikado.” The setting and costumes was a send-up of British customs, masked by their decoration. Everyone working in the American theater business from the early 20th century saw it as a business and not an art form, according to one website.
The 1900s saw the emergence of Florenz Ziegfeld Follies and remains legendary and remains familiar in an age that pays little attention to theater. Starting as a limited run summer show, “The Follies” became so profitable that it immediately became an annual event. Ziegfeld in 1910 continued his success with revue-like shows like “The Follies” setting new artistic standards. Over time his penchant for spending money on productions made “The Follies” the costliest on Broadway. The greatest artistic legacy was its comedic talent.
1928 saw Broadway’s most production-packed schedule. The 1920s were Broadways’ busiest years with as many as 50 productions of musicals opening in a single season.
The Bass Hall is located at 4th and Calhoun streets downtown and tickets are $30-$60.00.
For more information on the show, call 817-212-4280.
