Okay, since I actually have two must-see shows for the summer, but I could only highlight one on the show, I want to at least mention the other one here. The 5th Avenue Theatre has these fabulous FREE spotlight nights where they highlight upcoming productions. I love going to these because you get to hear all sorts of backstage and behind the scenes stuff plus learn so much about the creative process in putting together a musical.

This week I attended the one on their upcoming premier of Catch Me If You Can. Yes, based on the movie (with Leo DiCaprio & Tom Hanks) and book of the same name about the fascinating life of Frank Abagnale, Jr. who between the ages of 17 – 19 charmed his way into millions of dollars while posing as a Pan Am pilot, a pediatric doctor, and a lawyer after passing the bar at age 19. Created by the same dream team who developed the Tony-Award winning musical Hairspray, written by Tony-Award winning Terrence McNally, with costumes designed by “the” Bob Mackey and featuring an all-star line-up of male leads, I have a very strong hunch this is going to be the must-see event of the season. 5th Avenue is hoping to recreate the same magic they did with Hairspray (the musical that put Seattle on the map as THE place to develop new Broadway-bound musicals). Only playing here from July 23 – August 16, be sure to catch it if you can!

And of course, as mentioned on the show, New Century Theatre Company’s Orange Flower Water is going to get folks buzzing. Provocative, intimate and utterly human, this play about the fragility of marital relationships showcases the incredible virtuosity of this dynamic new theatre ensemble. For adults only, this darkly humorous, unflinchingly honest portrayal of two couples features some of the best acting talent in the city and will be Seattle’s first glimpse at the writing talent of Craig Wright. Get your tickets now – opening night is already sold out. Orange Flower Water plays June 24 – July 20.

Enjoy!
Kathy