Wicked Tickets ON SALE NOW!

BROADWAY’S BIGGEST BLOCKBUSTER TO RETURN TO
DALLAS SUMMER MUSICALS AND THE MUSIC HALL AT FAIR PARK
MAY 26-JUNE 27
* * *
TICKETS ON SALE MONDAY, MARCH 22!



BY STEPHEN SCHWARTZ AND WINNIE HOLZMAN
BASED ON THE NOVEL BY GREGORY MAGUIRE


Dallas, TX– After breaking box office records and selling out in record time in 2005 and again in 2007, WICKED, the smash-hit musical, will return to Dallas Summer Musicals and the Music Hall at Fair Park May 26-June 27. A special Internet only pre-sale will be held Sunday, March 21, from 8 p.m. to midnight at www.ticketmaster.com/wicked; code word POPULAR. For more information, please visit www.dallassummermusicals.org.

With music and lyrics by Stephen Schwartz (Godspell, Pippin, Academy Award-winner for Pocahontas and The Prince of Egypt) and book by Winnie Holzman (“My So Called Life,” “Once And Again” and “thirtysomething”), WICKED, the untold story of the witches of Oz, is directed by two-time Tony® Award winner Joe Mantello (Take Me Out, Love! Valour! Compassion!, The Vagina Monologues, 9 to 5) and features musical staging by Tony® Award winner Wayne Cilento (Aida, The Who’s Tommy, How To Succeed…).

Based on the best-selling 1995 novel by Gregory Maguire, WICKED, winner of 20 major awards, including a Grammy® and three Tony® Awards, is the untold story of the witches of Oz. It is produced by Marc Platt, Universal Pictures, The Araca Group, Jon B. Platt and David Stone.



Tickets for the return engagement go on sale to the public at 10 a.m. Monday, March 22. Single tickets, priced from $35-$135, will be on sale at The Box Office, 542 Preston Royal Shopping Center, and all area Ticketmaster locations. Tickets are also available by calling 214-631-ARTS (2787) or online at www.ticketmaster.com/wicked. Groups of 20 or more should call 214-426-GROUP (4767).

All performances will be at the Music Hall at Fair Park, opening at 8 p.m. Wednesday, May 26 with the following schedule.

Wednesday May 26 8 p.m.
Thursday May 27 2 and 8 p.m.
Friday May 28 8 p.m.
Saturday May 29 2 and 8 p.m.
Sunday May 30 2 and 8 p.m.

Tuesday June 1 8 p.m.
Wednesday June 2 8 p.m.
Thursday June 3 8 p.m.
Friday June 4 8 p.m.
Saturday June 5 2 and 8 p.m.
Sunday June 6 2 and 8 p.m.

Tuesday June 8 8 p.m.
Wednesday June 9 8 p.m.
Thursday June 10 8 p.m.
Friday June 11 8 p.m.
Saturday June 12 2 and 8 p.m.
Sunday June 13 2 and 8 p.m.

Tuesday June 15 8 p.m.
Wednesday June 16 8 p.m.
Thursday June 17 8 p.m.
Friday June 18 8 p.m.
Saturday June 19 2 and 8 p.m.
Sunday June 20 2 and 8 p.m.

Tuesday June 22 8 p.m.
Wednesday June 23 8 p.m.
Thursday June 24 8 p.m.
Friday June 25 8 p.m.
Saturday June 26 2 and 8 p.m.
Sunday June 27 2 and 8 p.m.

“I’m very pleased that we have been able to secure a return of WICKED for Dallas. Since every seat of the Music Hall at Fair Park was sold for the musical’s 2005 and 2007 engagements, we were unable to accommodate large numbers of people who wanted tickets to this wonderful show,” said Michael Jenkins, President and Managing Director of Dallas Summer Musicals. “In my opinion, the national tour is even better than the Broadway production, which I also loved. The producers of WICKED should be complimented for sending out such a high-quality show.”



Long before Dorothy drops in, two other girls meet in the Land of Oz. One – born with emerald-green skin – is smart, fiery and misunderstood. The other is beautiful, ambitious and very popular. WICKED tells the story of their remarkable odyssey, and how these two unlikely friends grow to become the Wicked Witch of the West and Glinda the Good Witch.

WICKED has “cast quite a spell” (Washington Post) throughout North America, breaking box office records in every city that it has played, including Toronto, Chicago, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Washington, DC, Philadelphia and Boston to name a few.
Called “one of the most successful shows in Broadway history” by The New York Times and “a phenomenon that keeps growing” by the Los Angeles Times, WICKED continues to thrill audiences around the world. There are currently eight productions of WICKED worldwide, including two North American tours, a Broadway production, San Francisco production, London production, a Japanese-language production, a German-language production and Australian production. A Dutch-language production of WICKED will open in 2011.
WICKED features set design by Tony® Award winner Eugene Lee (Ragtime, Show Boat, Candide, Sweeney Todd), costume design by Tony® Award winner Susan Hilferty (Into the Woods, Assassins), lighting design by Tony Award® nominee Kenneth Posner (Hairspray) and sound design by Tony Meola (The Lion King and the recent Man of La Mancha). Stephen Oremus is the show’s musical director. Orchestrations are by William David Brohn, with dance arrangements by James Lynn Abbott.

Grammy Award-Winning Cast recording available on Decca Broadway. For more information about WICKED, log on to www.wickedthemusical.com.

Casting for the forthcoming national tour stop will be announced at a later date.


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For media information about this show or the Dallas Summer Musicals, and for videotape, photos, interviews or reviewer’s passes, please call Jo Ann Holt at 469-363-7371 or send inquiries to joannholt@gmail.com.

New Officers and Executive Committee Members

LOCAL BUSINESSMAN AND CIVIC LEADER GARY GRIFFITH

INSTALLED AS NEW CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD

OF DALLAS SUMMER MUSICALS, INC.

New Officers and Executive Committee Members

Dallas, TX…Dallas Summer Musicals, Inc., presented by Bank, the largest producer of live theatrical entertainment in the Southwest, has named Gary Griffith, local businessman and civic leader, Chairman of the Board of Directors for 2010. Griffith took over as Board Chairman at the DSM board’s annual meeting in December 2009.

Griffith is President of the Today Foundation, an organization whose mission is to positively impact the lives of young people through drug abuse prevention, character development and education initiatives for at-risk youth. Because of his involvement with the foundation (www.TodayFoundation.org), Griffith says he has a special interest in the Stage Right program created by Dallas Summer Musicals in partnership with the Dallas Police Department, to help bring at-risk students to the shows.

Michael Jenkins, President and Managing Director of Dallas Summer Musicals, said,

“We are extremely fortunate to have a leader of Gary Griffith’s caliber coming in as Chairman of the DSM board for our important 70^th anniversary season. Griffith has a special passion for this community as demonstrated by his exemplary service over the past 30 years.”

Gary Griffith is a strong believer in community service, as demonstrated by his outstanding service as a civic leader, elected official and volunteer extraordinaire over the past four decades. Griffith says he was taught the importance of public service and giving back to the community while growing up in East Dallas, where he graduated from Woodrow Wilson High School. After earning a government degree at the University of Texas in Austin in 1970, Griffith returned to Dallas and his exemplary service to the community, state and country began in earnest. The following list outlines just a few of Griffith’s accomplishments: President of Safer Dallas Better Dallas; Board of Directors, State Fair of Texas Association; Chairman, White Rock Lake Conservancy; former member of the Dallas City Council, Park Board, and Planning and Zoning Commission.

Griffith said, “I am honored to be asked to serve as Chairman of the Board for Dallas Summer Musicals’ 70^th anniversary year in 2010. As a non-profit, we are fortunate to have a dedicated base of sponsors, subscribers and volunteers who work year-round to keep DSM a top-tier, nationally recognized arts organization. DSM has been entertaining North Texas audiences with the finest in live, musical theatre entertainment since 1941, and we plan to continue this tradition for many years into the future.”

Griffith and his wife, Jackie, live in the Lakewood area and are longtime members of Wilshire Baptist Church. The Griffiths have twin daughters and two grandsons.

Immediate Past Chairman of Dallas Summer Musicals is Dick Quisenberry, with Michael C. Steindorf serving as Chairman Elect. Ruth Altshuler holds the title of Honorary Chair, and Michael A. Jenkins is President and Managing Director of DSM.

Other DSM officers for 2010 include:

Vice President – Audit, Dorsey Baskin; Vice President – Community Outreach, Darrell Jordan; Vice President – Finance, Michael S. Albright; Vice President – Investment, Ted Munselle; Vice President – Long Range Planning, Stan Gardner; Vice President – Marketing/PR/Special Events, Brice Beaird; Vice President – Nominating, Dick Quisenberry; Vice President – Personnel & Compensation, Steve Watson; Secretary, Steven C. Metzger; and Treasurer, Richard L. Rogers.

The 2010 executive committee members are Michael S. Albright, Ruth Altshuler, Dorsey Baskin, Brice Beaird, Ed Blessing, Ed Bratton, Karl Chiao, O. Paul Corley,, Jr., O. Paul Corley, Sr., C.E. “Doc” Cornutt, Terry R. Dallas, Laura V. Estrada, Jay Fox, Christine Gancarz, Stan Gardner, Rick Graham, Gary E. Griffith, Charles L. Gummer, Darrell Jordan, Rebecca Kay, Marvin Lane, Meredy McClure, John McCoy, Bill Melton, Steven C. Metzger, Caven Miller, Ted Munselle, William J. O’Dwyer, Alfonso E. Pino III, Charles Pistor, James W. Porter, Jr., Dick Quisenberry, Scott Ragland, W. Wallace Reed, Kenneth D. Sandstad, Kip Sowden, Donald K. Spies, Michael C. Steindorf, Paul A. Stotts, Sandra K. Thomas, Steve B. Watson, and Kit Williams.

Past Chairmen of the Board for DSM are Ed Bratton, O. Paul Corley, O. Paul Corley, Jr., Stan Gardner, Rick Graham, Charles L. Gummer, Steven C. Metzger, Charles Pistor, Bud Porter, Dick Quisenberry, Ken Sandstad, Donald K. Spies, and Paul A. Stotts. Past chairmen J. Frank Miller III and Douglas Perry are deceased.

Now celebrating its 70th season, Dallas Summer Musicals (DSM), presented by Comerica Bank, is the largest producer of live theatrical entertainment in the Southwest, the second oldest summer theatre organization in the United States, and the sixth largest non-profit theatre company in the nation. DSM has been entertaining North Texas audiences with the finest in live, musical theatre entertainment since 1941.

In addition to presenting national Broadway tours, DSM also produces shows on Broadway, presents and tours local productions, and is involved in developing new works. Dallas Summer Musicals’ affiliates include DSM Management Group, Inc. (DSM MGI), which manages the Music Hall at Fair Park and the historical Majestic Theatre. In addition, DSM has its own school of musical theatre, which provides quality education and outreach to the youth of Dallas. For more information about Dallas Summer Musicals, visit their website at www.dallassummermusicals.org or call 214-421-5678.

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For immediate release:




MUSIC BOX COMPANY SAYS

PHAREWELL


The National Tour of THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA to play its final performance at the Pantages Theater in Los Angeles
November 2010


NEW YORK, NY - Cameron Mackintosh and The Really Useful Theatre Company, Inc. announced today that the national tour of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA, known as the Music Box Company, will play its final performance in November 2010 at the Pantages Theater in Los Angeles. The Music Box Company will begin performances in Los Angeles on Thursday, September 23. Tickets will go on sale in late April. For more information, please visit www.thephantomoftheopera.com.

THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA is the most successful and longest continuously-running tour in U.S. history. The musical has been represented on the road since the First National began performances in Los Angeles in May 1989. Since that time, there have been three U.S. national touring productions. The First National Tour (Christine Company) played Los Angeles and San Francisco for a combined total run of almost 10 years, grossing $305,192,485 with 3,902 performances and 6.6 million patrons. The Second National Tour (Raoul Company) played major markets during an eight and a half year run, grossed $393,608,819 with 3,364 performances and 7.5 million patrons. The Third National Tour (Music Box Company) is the only production still currently touring the U.S. and has played over 7,000 performances and recently celebrated its Seventeenth Anniversary in December 2009.

The three U.S. national tours have grossed over $1.5 billion in combined box office sales. As of the Music Box Company’s final performance in November, the three touring companies will have played 205 engagements in 98 cities for an unprecedented combined total of 36 years and 14,605 performances.

Upcoming engagements of THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA include:

• Feb 17 – March 14: Music Hall at Fair Park – Dallas, TX
• March 17 – April 4: UTPAC Bass Concert Hall – Austin, TX
• April 8 – May 2: Hippodrome Theatre – Baltimore, MD
• May 19 – June 6: The Wharton Center – East Lansing, MI
• June 9 – 27: The Schuster Center – Dayton, OH
• June 30 – July 25: The Fox Theatre – Atlanta, GA
• July 28 – August 22: The Allen Theatre – Cleveland, OH
• Aug 25 – Sept 19: The Benedum Center – Pittsburgh, PA

The longest-running show in Broadway history, the New York production of THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA recently celebrated its 22nd Anniversary – the musical’s latest in a long line of record-breaking milestones. Since its debut on January 26, 1988, PHANTOM has grossed over $755 million, making it the highest-grossing show in Broadway history. The production’s ongoing staying power is exemplified by its consistently strong houses, including last month breaking the house record to have its best weekly gross in its 22 year history. Having also recently surpassed an unprecedented 9,000 performances and counting, PHANTOM continues at The Majestic Theatre with no end in sight.

Worldwide, over 65,000 performances of THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA have been seen by 100 million people in 27 countries and 144 cities. Its international success – equally staggering – is represented by total worldwide grosses estimated at over $5 billion. This colossal figure makes PHANTOM the most successful entertainment venture of all time, surpassing not only any other stage production, but also far surpassing the world’s highest-grossing film Avatar (at $2.077 billion) and such other blockbusters as Titanic, The Lord of the Rings, Jurassic Park and Star Wars. There are currently nine productions around the world: London, New York, Budapest (Hungary), Nagoya (Japan), Warsaw (Poland), Seoul (Korea), Buenos Aires (Argentina), the U.S. National Tour and a revised production in Las Vegas at The Venetian. The Broadway production is the winner of 7 Tony Awards including Best Musical.

Based on the classic novel by Gaston Leroux, THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA tells the story of a masked figure who lurks beneath the catacombs of the Paris Opera House, exercising a reign of terror over all who inhabit it. He falls madly in love with an innocent young soprano, Christine, and devotes himself to creating a new star by nurturing her extraordinary talents and by employing all of the devious methods at his command.

THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA third national tour currently stars Tim Martin Gleason in the title role with Trista Moldovan as Christine (Marni Raab continues the role through February 21st) and Sean MacLaughlin as Raoul. The musical also co-stars D.C. Anderson (Monsieur Andre), Bruce Winant (Monsieur Firmin), Kim Stengel (Carlotta), Nancy Hess (Madame Giry), David Gaschen (Piangi) and Paloma Garcia-Lee (Meg Giry). At certain performances, Kelly Jeanne Grant plays the role of “Christine.”
THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA has music by Andrew Lloyd Webber and is directed by Harold Prince. Lyrics are by Charles Hart (with additional lyrics by Richard Stilgoe) and the book is by Richard Stilgoe and Andrew Lloyd Webber. THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA has production design by the late Maria Bjornson, lighting by Andrew Bridge and sound design by Mick Potter with original sound by Martin Levan. Musical staging and choreography is by Gillian Lynne. Orchestrations are by David Cullen and Andrew Lloyd Webber.
www.thephantomoftheopera.com

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National Press Representatives
DJ Martin/Andrew Cole
Type A Marketing
1650 Broadway, Suite 800
New York, NY 10019
212-307-0800
dj@typeamktg.com
andrew@typeamktg.com

Michael Borowoski
The Publicity Office
1650 Broadway
New York, NY 10019
212-315-2120
mike@publicityoffice.com

PHANTOM Cast Announced!

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE


CASTING ANNOUNCED!


ANDREW LLOYD WEBBER’S INTERNATIONAL AWARD-WINNING MUSICAL


DIRECTED BY HAROLD PRINCE
THE LONGEST-RUNNING SHOW IN BROADWAY HISTORY!
RETURNS TO DALLAS SUMMER MUSICALS, PRESENTED BY COMERICA BANK
AT THE MUSIC HALL AT FAIR PARK FEBRUARY 17-MARCH 14, 2010

Dallas, TX… Final Dallas engagement! With some of the most lavish sets, costumes and special effects ever to have been created for the stage, Andrew Lloyd Webber’s THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA, directed by Harold Prince, traces the tragic love story of a beautiful opera singer and a young composer shamed by his physical appearance into a shadowy existence beneath the majestic Paris Opera House. Adapted from Gaston Leroux’s classic novel of mystery and suspense, this award-winning musical has woven its magical spell over standing room audiences in more than 100 cities worldwide and is now the longest running show in Broadway history. For his final overture in Dallas, PHANTOM returns to the Music Hall at Fair Park to take your breath away.

The Cameron Mackintosh/Really Useful Theatre Company, Inc. production of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA, directed by Harold Prince, returning to Dallas Summer Musicals, presented by Comerica Bank at the Music Hall at Fair Park February 17-March 14, 2010, has announced casting for the production. Single tickets for all performances, ranging from $21-$86, are currently on sale at The Box Office, 542 Preston Royal Shopping Center; all Ticketmaster outlets and www.ticketmaster.com; or by phone at 214-631-ARTS (2787). For groups of 20 or more, please call 214-426-GROUP.

Tim Martin Gleason heads the 36-member company as The Phantom, with Trista Moldovan as the young soprano, Christine, and Sean MacLaughlin as Raoul. Also featured will be Kim Stengel as Carlotta Giudicelli, D.C. Anderson as Monsieur André, Michael McCoy as Monsieur Firmin, Nancy Hess as Madame Giry, David Gaschen as Ubaldo Piangi and Jessica Bishop as Meg. At certain performances, Kelly Jeanne Grant plays the role of Christine.

TIM MARTIN GLEASON (The Phantom of the Opera). After completing a record-setting tenure as Raoul with 3 different American companies of Phantom, Tim returns to the national tour, this time as the masked man. He began his Phantom journey with this very company in 2001 as member of the ensemble. He quickly took over the role of Raoul, which he played for over three years. He then had the honor of playing Raoul for the record-breaking Broadway Company when Phantom became the longest-running show in Broadway history. Mr. Gleason next originated the role of Raoul for Phantom: The Las Vegas Spectacular. In September of 2007 he rejoined the Broadway cast for an additional year and a half. With his time in all three companies, Mr. Gleason is the longest-running Raoul in American history, playing the role more than 2,600 times. Mr. Gleason received a BS in psychology from Saint Joseph's University in Philadelphia and actually pursued a business career for 4 years before deciding to become an actor. Prior to Phantom, he has originated several roles, including Romeo in Terrence Mann's musical Romeo & Juliet at Goodspeed and Adam Gernstein in The Rhythm Club at Signature Theatre, a role for which he received a prestigious Helen Hayes Award nomination

TRISTA MOLDOVAN* (Christine Daaé) is delighted to join the U. S. National Tour of The Phantom of the Opera. Most recently, she had the honor of working with Julie Andrews in the John Bucchino musical Simeon’s Gift. She also appeared as ‘Cosette’ in the regional premiere of Les Misérables at the Pioneer Theater Company. Off-Broadway/NYC: Sally in Me and My Girl (Musicals Tonight), Rachel in Paul Revere (Theatreworks) and Seffa in Faces of War (Makor Center). Regional credits: Gypsy (Louise), Nine (Carla), Born Yesterday (Billie Dawn), Carousel (Julie) and Cabaret (Sally). Television: “The Guiding Light,” “All My Children” and “As the World Turns.” Trista is a proud graduate of the Baldwin-Wallace Conservatory of Music.

MARNI RAAB* (Christine Daaé [02/17 - 02/21]) is delighted to return to the Music Box Company. Broadway: The Phantom of the Opera (Christine). International: The Phantom of the Opera World Tour (original cast, Christine) playing Shanghai, Seoul, Taipei and Hong Kong, Cats in Hamburg, Germany (Jellylorum), recital work at the Mozarteum in Salzburg, Austria. Off-Broadway/New York: Roberta (Musicals Tonight), Have a Heart (Musicals Tonight) and lots of readings. Regional: My Fair Lady (Eliza), Carousel (Julie), A Little Night Music (Anne), The Fantasticks (Luisa) Concerts: “Another Op’nin’, Another Show: A Tribute to Paul Gemignani” Wayne, NJ, Schuster Gala with the Dayton Philharmonic, San Francisco’s “Red Hot Broadway” with Elaine Stritch, “Night of Stars” at Toronto’s Princess of Wales Theatre
“An Evening of Andrew Lloyd Webber” at Philadelphia’s Media Theatre. Opera:
appearances with The Connecticut Grand Opera, The Metropolitan Opera Guild, New England Lyric Operetta, Ohio Light Opera, and Boheme Opera. Marni holds a Bachelor’s degree from Oberlin Conservatory of Music. For more information, please visit www.marniraab.com.

SEAN MacLAUGHLIN (Raoul, Vicomte de Chagny) is proud to perform the role of Raoul. Broadway: Andrew Lloyd Webber’s The Woman in White. Performed the roles of Vikram in Bombay Dreams” and Armand in Elton John’s Lestat; Off-Broadway: The Audience and Requiem for William. Some favorite regional credits include: The Kennedy Center productions of The Sondheim Celebration: Merrily We Roll Along and Ken Ludwig’s re-tooling of Tom Sawyer; Signature Theatre: the workshop of Michael John LaChiusa’s The Highest Yellow, Forum (Hero), Into The Woods (Rapunzel’s Prince), The Rink (Dino), Grand Hotel (Erik); Flat Rock Theatre: Thoroughly Modern Millie (Jimmy), The Rainmaker (Starbuck), Children of Eden (Cain /Japheth), I Love You, You’re Perfect…( Man 2); Hangar Theater: My Fair Lady (Freddy). TV/Film: HBO’s “Something the Lord Made” (Dr Swedlin) and appeared in PBS’ Great Performances “South Pacific : In Concert from Carnegie Hall”. Sean thanks his family for their constant love and support. Member of Actors’ Equity since 1999.

THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA has music by Andrew Lloyd Webber and is directed by Harold Prince. Lyrics are by Charles Hart (with additional lyrics by Richard Stilgoe) and the book is by Richard Stilgoe and Andrew Lloyd Webber. Production design is by Maria Bjornson, lighting by Andrew Bridge and sound by Martin Levan. Musical staging and choreography is by Gillian Lynne. Orchestrations are by David Cullen and Andrew Lloyd Webber.

Based on the classic novel Le Fantôme de l’Opéra by Gaston Leroux, THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA tells the story of a masked figure who lurks beneath the catacombs of the Paris Opera House, exercising a reign of terror over all who inhabit it. He falls madly in love with an innocent young soprano, Christine, and devotes himself to creating a new star by nurturing her extraordinary talents and by employing all of the devious methods at his command.

With total worldwide grosses estimated at over $5 billion, THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA is the most successful entertainment venture of the twentieth century, surpassing such blockbuster films as Titanic, Lord of the Rings, Jurassic Park and Star Wars. The show had its world premiere on October 9, 1986 at Her Majesty’s Theatre in London, winning every major British theatre award including the Olivier and Evening Standard Awards. The New York production opened on January 26, 1988 where it won seven 1988 Tony® Awards, including Best Musical.

Over 80 million people in 124 cities in 25 countries have seen THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA. Worldwide, the show consistently plays to larger audiences and in longer engagements than any other musical in history. On January 9, 2006, THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA became the longest-running show in Broadway history surpassing Cats’ record-holding run of 7,485 performances. The show celebrated an unprecedented milestone on January 26, 2008 when it reached its twentieth anniversary on Broadway.

The Dallas engagement of THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA is presented by arrangement with Dallas Summer Musicals, presented by Comerica Bank, and is part of the DSM 70th anniversary season. Visit the official THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA website at www.thephantomoftheopera.com.

THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA will preview Wednesday, February 17 and Thursday, February 18 at 8 p.m., with official press opening night Friday, February 19 at 8 p.m. All performances are at the Music Hall at Fair Park, with the following performance schedule:

Wednesday February 17 8 p.m. Preview performance
Thursday February 18 2 and 8 p.m. Preview performance
Friday February 19 8 p.m. Official Opening Night
Saturday February 20 2 and 8 p.m.
Sunday February 21 2 and 8 p.m.
Monday February 22 DARK
Tuesday February 23 8 p.m.
Wednesday February 24 8 p.m.
Thursday February 25 8 p.m.
Friday February 26 8 p.m.
Saturday February 27 2 and 8 p.m.
Sunday February 28 2 and 8 p.m.
Monday March 1 DARK
Tuesday March 2 8 p.m.
Wednesday March 3 8 p.m.
Thursday March 4 8 p.m.
Friday March 5 8 p.m.
Saturday March 6 2 and 8 p.m.
Sunday March 7 2 and 8 p.m.
Monday March 8 DARK
Tuesday March 9 8 p.m.
Wednesday March 10 8 p.m.
Thursday March 11 2 and 8 p.m.
Friday March 12 8 p.m.
Saturday March 13 2 and 8 p.m.
Sunday March 14 2 p.m. Final Performance


The Dallas engagement of THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA is presented by arrangement with Dallas Summer Musicals, presented by Comerica Bank, and is part of the DSM 70th anniversary season. Visit the official THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA website at www.thephantomoftheopera.com.

Next up for Dallas Summer Musicals will be RAIN: A TRIBUTE TO THE BEATLES, March 16-21; XANADU, April 6-18; THE MUSIC OF ANDREW LLOYD WEBBER, April 20-25; LITTLE HOUSE ON THE PRAIRIE THE MUSICAL, with Melissa Gilbert as “Ma,” May 11-23; WICKED, May 26-June 27; DREAMGIRLS, June 30-July 18; and the State Fair of Texas musical, SHREK THE MUSICAL, September 28-October 17, 2010.

Season sponsors for Dallas Summer Musicals, presented by Comerica Bank, are WFAA TV Channel 8 and American Airlines. Now celebrating its 68th season, Dallas Summer Musicals, Inc. (DSM) is the largest producer of live theatrical entertainment in the Southwest, the second oldest summer theater organization in the United States, and the sixth largest non-profit theater company. DSM has been entertaining North Texas audiences with the finest in live, musical theatre entertainment since 1941. In addition to presenting national Broadway tours, DSM also produces shows on Broadway, presents and tours local productions, and is involved in developing new works. Dallas Summer Musicals’ affiliates include DSM Management Group, Inc. (DSMMGI), which manages the Music Hall at Fair Park and the historic Majestic Theatre.

As a non-profit organization, DSM relies on a variety of funding sources to bring the Best of Broadway to Dallas at affordable ticket prices, as well as to preserve the beautiful historic theatres, educate young audiences and create important community programs. DSM’s Seats for Kids program provides a meaningful arts education experience to thousands of low income, at-risk and special needs children. DSM and the Dallas Police Department partner together to provide positive incentives for youth that are at risk for gang membership through the Stage Right program. In addition, the DSM Academy of Performing Arts offers professional theatre arts training and scholarships to talented students in need. Ticket sales alone do not sustain these endeavors. Only support from committed businesses, foundations and individuals make these programs possible. For more information about Dallas Summer Musicals, presented by Comerica, visit their website at www.dallassummermusicals.org or call (214) 421-5678.
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For media information about this show or the Dallas Summer Musicals, and for videotape, photos, interviews or reviewer’s passes, please call Jo Ann Holt at 469-363-7371 or send inquiries to joannholt@gmail.com.

RAIN: A TRIBUTE TO THE BEATLES Returns to Dallas!

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE, PLEASE
February 16, 2010

ELECTRONIC IMAGES AVAILABLE

From Ed Sullivan to Abbey Road…


RETURNS TO THE MUSIC HALL AT FAIR PARK
IN SPECIAL ENGAGEMENT FOR DALLAS SUMMER MUSICALS
MARCH 16-21, 2010--- 8 SHOWS ONLY!

TICKETS ON SALE NOW



The award-winning Beatles concert, RAIN – A Tribute To The Beatles, returns to the Music Hall at Fair Park in a special engagement for Dallas Summer Musicals (DSM), presented by Comerica Bank, March 16-21, 2010 for eight shows only. In a show the Denver Post calls “the next best thing to seeing The Beatles,” RAIN boasts a repertoire of nearly 200 Beatlemaniac favorites, ranging from such beloved songs as “Yesterday” and “Hey Jude” to classic hits including “Revolution” and “Come Together.”

RAIN covers the Fab Four from their very first Ed Sullivan Show appearance through the Abbey Road album, through the psychedelic late 60s and their long-haired hippie, hard-rocking rooftop days. RAIN is a multi-media, multi-dimensional experience...a fusion of historical footage and hilarious television commercials from the 1960s lights up video screens and live cameras zoom in for close-ups.

For the four longtime band members – Joey Curatolo (Paul McCartney), Joe Bithorn (George Harrison), Ralph Castelli (Ringo Starr) and Steve Landes (John Lennon), with a little help from their friend Mark Lewis (keyboards, percussion) – the music is first and foremost. For more than two decades, RAIN has distinguished itself by focusing on details, always being faithful to The Beatles with the ultimate goal of delivering a perfect note-for-note performance. All the music is performed live, with no pre-recorded tapes or sequences.



“On their feet, with arms raised high above their heads, all in the audience were swaying and singing along in blissed-out, nostalgia-powered unison!
-- Chicago Sun-Times

“The enraptured audience relives the soundtrack of its life!”
-- Chicago Tribune

"RAIN nails the full glory of those heavenly vocal harmonies and thrilled an all-ages crowd with note-perfect renditions of songs from the mightiest canon in all of popular music history." -- Buffalo News

“RAIN creates musical nirvana…makes the hair on the back of your neck stand up! A thrilling bit of time-warping nostalgia...Boomer Heaven!”
-- Fort Worth Star-Telegram

“Uncanny! RAIN are a quartet of fine musicians in their own right…as The Beatles, they triumph!” -- The Boston Herald

“An adoring Valentine to The Beatles!” -- The Washington Post

“RAIN is a spectacular extravaganza…did the audience love it? Yeah, yeah, yeah!”
-- The Philadelphia Inquirer.

“Parents (and grandparents) and kids were on their feet bopping like crazy!”
-- The Courier Post


Like The Beatles, the onstage members of RAIN are not only supreme musicians, but electrifying performers in their own right.

www.raintribute.com

Single tickets are available now at The Box Office, 542 Preston Royal Shopping Center. Tickets are priced from $15-$71, and will also be available online at Ticketmaster.com or at any Ticketmaster outlet, including The Majestic Theatre, 1925 Elm Street, or by calling 214-631-ARTS (2787). Tickets for groups of 15 or more are available by calling 214-426-GROUP.

All performances will be at the Music Hall at Fair Park, with the following schedule.

Tuesday March 16 8 p.m. (opening night)
Wednesday March 17 8 p.m.
Thursday March 18 8 p.m.
Friday March 19 8 p.m.
Saturday March 20 2 and 8 p.m.
Sunday March 21 2 and 8 p.m.


Next up for Dallas Summer Musicals will be XANADU, April 6-18; THE MUSIC OF ANDREW LLOYD WEBBER, April 20-25; LITTLE HOUSE ON THE PRAIRIE THE MUSICAL, with Melissa Gilbert as “Ma,” May 11-23; WICKED, May 26-June 27; DREAMGIRLS, June 30-July 18; and the State Fair of Texas musical, SHREK THE MUSICAL, September 28-October 17, 2010.

Season sponsors for Dallas Summer Musicals, presented by Comerica Bank, are WFAA TV Channel 8 and American Airlines. Now celebrating its 68th season, Dallas Summer Musicals, Inc. (DSM) is the largest producer of live theatrical entertainment in the Southwest, the second oldest summer theater organization in the United States, and the sixth largest non-profit theater company. DSM has been entertaining North Texas audiences with the finest in live, musical theatre entertainment since 1941. In addition to presenting national Broadway tours, DSM also produces shows on Broadway, presents and tours local productions, and is involved in developing new works. Dallas Summer Musicals’ affiliates include DSM Management Group, Inc. (DSMMGI), which manages the Music Hall at Fair Park and the historic Majestic Theatre.

As a non-profit organization, DSM relies on a variety of funding sources to bring the Best of Broadway to Dallas at affordable ticket prices, as well as to preserve the beautiful historic theatres, educate young audiences and create important community programs. DSM’s Seats for Kids program provides a meaningful arts education experience to thousands of low income, at-risk and special needs children. DSM and the Dallas Police Department partner together to provide positive incentives for youth that are at risk for gang membership through the Stage Right program. In addition, the DSM Academy of Performing Arts offers professional theatre arts training and scholarships to talented students in need. Ticket sales alone do not sustain these endeavors. Only support from committed businesses, foundations and individuals make these programs possible. For more information about Dallas Summer Musicals, presented by Comerica, visit their website at www.dallassummermusicals.org or call (214) 421-5678.


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For media information about any of the individual shows or the Dallas Summer Musicals, and for videotape, photos, or reviewer’s passes, please call Jo Ann Holt at 469-363-7371 or send inquiries to joannholt@gmail.com.

Audience quotes from MARY POPPINS

If I could, I would try to explain exactly how much people we're blown out of the water by MARY POPPINS... then I though, "why not simply let the people themselves tell everyone?"

"Mary Poppins was a great experience. The set and special effects were unbelievable. The cast was outstanding. It was an unforgettable experience."

"This being my first time to see the stage musical, I was unsure what to expect. The story was unique! The sets were amazing! The acting, dancing, and singing were phenomenal! I truly felt transported to another world!"

"Mary Poppins was an unforgettable experience. The performance was well polished, enchanting, and deserving of a standing ovation! I enjoyed every moment!"

"Took my daughter for a birthday gift. It was amazing, wonderful and magical all wrapped up in one. Ashley Brown was beyond good as Mary Poppins. My daughter and I haven't stopped singing the songs since we stood up to go home!!"

"Quite possibly the best musical I have seen in my life, and I have seen quite a few! The costumes, sets and special effects drew me right in, and the voices were consistently beautiful, even the children's voices. Altogether a wonderful evening's entertainment."

"This was a truly magical production! We've seen many great musicals over the years -- this was one of our absolute favorites. If you have children (or even if you don't), do not miss this show. Absolutely magical."

"The whole production of Mary Poppins was outstanding. My husband and I had seats way over on the right side of the theater but could still enjoy everything.All the preformers had wonderful voices, and the children were excepttional. I would love to see it again. It was fun, fun , fun"

"I heard Mary Poppins was coming to DSM and it's my mother's favorite movie! I bought the tickets and surprised her with the show. The story line was a bit different from the movie but moved along well. All the important songs were there and sung beautifully! Great, gorgeous cast! "

"Amazing sets and dancing!"

"We were blown away by the quality and creativity in every area--singing, acting, choreography, lighting, stage and props, costumes, backdrops, special effects.....each area was a delight in its own. After many, many musicals, this was simple the best."

"WOW! Great show with outstanding sets and acting! The singing was beautiful!"

"This was a wonderfully orchestrated event with talent that surpasses most that I have seen in the past. Mary Poppins has an amazing resemblance to Julie Andrews vocally. This is a wonderful event for children and adults alike."

"Slightly different than the movie - and in a very good way. The house opens up like a doll-house - awesome. The choreography for Supercalif.... and Step in Time was delightful. Mary Poppins and Bert are amazing performers and so well supported by the rest of the cast. And, i think i was present with the most participatory Dallas audience ever. They clapped along, sang, sighed, and it was all wonderful."

"Wonderful musical. Took 5 yr old grandson, maybe a little too young, but by the time it was over, he was captivated and loved it. Casting is perfect, those kids amazing. Such a fun, and uplifting story about the importance of family."

"It was Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! The special effects were stunning."

"Must see! Wonderful acting and singing! Amazing sets, costumes and lighting. Funny! And some great special tricks! Seen it twice, would go again if I could!"

"Took the whole family and everyone loved it. They did a great job of doing all the favorite songs from the movie, and they also added new elements that made it exciting and fresh."

"Absolutely amazing! We thoroughly enjoyed every single minute!"

"I picked this play due to the fact that my wife loves Disney cartoons. I also did like Mary Poppins growing up as a kid. It was a great play from start to finish. I am still trying to figure out how they got all those items in her bag."

"The singing and dancing was great. There were two favorite moments, the items that she pulled out of her bag and the end where she went up through the crowd and up through the whole in the ceiling. GREAT EXIT!!!!!."

"The tickets were purchased for daughter, granddaughters and great granddaughter and was a hit. The ages ranged from 4year old to 50 years old and a wonderful time was had by all. "

"I took my husband, my son (6months old), my two daughters 3 1/2 yrs., and 2 yrs. old, and it was an absolute THRILL for all of us!!! We are all fans of the movie, but were excited to see them in person. What a wonderful job. The entire experience was great, the ushers were wonderful, the vendors, everyone! Thank you for a wonderful experience. WE will be back next year for sure!!!"

"Mary Poppins was the most fun I have had in a long time. What a fun event to go see with family and friends of all ages. I am ready to go see it again!"

"The whole cast and crew did an amazing job of bringing one of my favorite musicals to the stage. As a former actor and techie, I was left questioning myself how some of the technical tricks were done. Regardless, this show--even on stage is full of mystery and magic. GREAT JOB TO EVERYONE."

"Don't miss this fabulous musical. It was wonderful. Can't wait for Little House on the Prairie with Melissa Gilbert playing Ma coming next May."

"We've seen several shows this season at the DSM, but this by far was the best! It was truly magical!"

"Starting with very comfortable seats to outstanding sound and fantastic performances by each of the cast member this show is certainly a can't miss!"

"The show was amazing, I loved all the music and new spin on the movie scenes. Mary Poppins is a must see for anyone who loves musicals."

"I wasn't sure what to expect when I booked our tickets. Knew the Disney Movie and all the songs - and went for an evening of entertainment. What we got was so much more! Songs. Dancing. Glorious voices. Sets that knocked my socks off and dazzled me with every set change and special effects. The entire evening was magic! Disney is the master of production."

"This was one of the best performances I've ever been too. The talent of the performers and special effects were top notch. It's a great family event that deserves to be seen by the masses. I would recomend it to anyone and everyone. If you've seen Disney's Mary Poppins, you must see this musical. It will take you more in depth into the world of Mary Poppins. It is a must see!"

"This was a great show. I had read so much about Mary flying over the audience, but nothing was said about the tap dance around the room by the Sweep. That was absolutely amazing. How did you do it. I am so grateful for the 4 for $99 special which enabled me to purchase tickets. My granddaughter, daughter-in-law, and myself really enjoyed it. Thank you!"

"Battle of the Broadway Musicals '09" Contest Winners Announced!

by Steven Hall
Webmaster, DSM

WE HAVE CONTEST WINNERS! For 15 days, we pitted one Broadway musical against another Broadway musical and let our 3400+ Facebook fans vote the daily winner until, after 4 rounds of historic musical battles, we crowned WICKED 2009's “Best Musical of All Time”! 16 Broadway musicals were chosed to battle each other. Each was chosen for a combination of the number of awards won, combined with the longest runs on "The Great White Way" -- BROADWAY.

WICKED became the best of all time ... Now one lucky contest has won the GRAND PRIZE for correctly predicting ALL the battle winners:

Congratulations to our:

Grand Prize Winner Chris Hill (34 /34 pts)

2nd place Becky Niederstadt (26 /34 pts)

3rd place Shelly Vatteroni (25 /34 pts)

Out of 100s of contestants, Chris was the ONLY perfect bracket! As the Grand Prize Winner Chris won:

-4 tickets to attend MARY POPPINS
-Dinner for 4 at “M, Dining at the Music Hall”
-A WICKED poster signed by the cast

-A CD from one of this season's shows
-Backstage tour for MARY POPPINS

-and more!

We hope we'll see even more of you all for future contests at DSM & Facebook!

http://www.facebook.com/dallassummermusicals

http://www.dallassummermusicals.org/