Phoenix Theatre production is ‘sensory overload’ of glitz and glamour
Staff Reports | Digital Free Press
The rite of passage known as prom is one of the most anticipated events for a young American and this summer it’s getting a glittery and inclusive glow-up when ‘The Prom’ debuts on stage at The Phoenix Theatre Company.
The big-hearted, uplifting and funny musical runs June 7 to July 9 at the Phoenix Theatre Company in downtown Phoenix.
“This show is sensory overload with glittery costumes, energetic dance numbers and songs that will make audiences want to sing out loud, but its message is rooted in the need for acceptance and inclusivity,” said Michael Barnard, the show’s director and producing artistic director for The Phoenix Theatre Company. “What starts as a selfish and insincere act results in a fabulous story of growth and a whole lot of heart.”
Phoenix Theatre Company hosts ‘The Prom’ this July
“The Prom” tells the story of an Indiana high school student, Emma, who wants more than anything to take her girlfriend to prom. When the parent-teacher association at her conservative school catches wind, they cancel the prom.
The story goes viral on social media and reaches a group of Broadway performers looking for a cause they can use to redeem themselves after some failings in their own lives. Without being asked, the four down-on-their-luck actors head to Indiana to throw Emma the prom of her dreams. They plan to correct an injustice and get some good publicity at the same time.
“The arts are a great place to bridge a bond between people and foster a safe place for everyone. That’s what our mission at The Phoenix Theatre Company has always been and this musical exemplifies the message of acceptance and hope perfectly,” Mr. Barnard added. “This show is a reminder that theater is the escape we all need from the complexity of real life.”
Inspired by a series of actual events, “The Prom” is a seven-time-Tony-Award-nominated Broadway musical with music by Matthew Skylar, lyrics by Chad Beguelin and a book by Bob Martin.
Cast for “The Prom” contains some new faces as well as many Valley favorites, including:
- Hahnna Christianson as Emma;
- Tara Venkataraman as Alyssa;
- Kate Cook* as Angie;
- Matravius Avent* as Principal Hawkins;
- Alyssa Chiarello* as Mrs. Greene;
- Debby Rosenthal* as Dee Dee;
- Rusty Ferracane* as Barry;
- Lucas Coatney* as Trent;
- Chris Eriksen as Sheldon;
- Teddy Ladley as Nick;
- Tarnim Bybee as Kaylee; and
- Wesley Bradstreet as Kevin.
