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Rapid Fire 20Q with ‘Suffs: The Musical’ Cast Members; National Tour at TPAC March 3-8

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Members of the cast of ‘Suffs: The Musical’. (Photo by Joan Marcus courtesy musical.com)

There are few places in America where Sufffs lands with more historical weight than Tennessee — proudly known as the “Mother of the 19th Amendment.” In August 1920, it was the Volunteer State that became the 36th — and final — state needed to ratify the amendment, officially granting American women the right to vote. The dramatic showdown, later dubbed the “War of the Roses” — named for the yellow roses worn by pro-suffrage lawmakers and the red roses sported by those opposed — came down to a razor-thin margin and a 24-year-old East Tennessee lawmaker, Harry Burn, who famously changed his vote to “yes” after receiving a note from his mother urging him to “be a good boy” and support ratification. In that moment, Tennessee didn’t just make history — it sealed it.

More than a century later, the Tony Award-winning musical Suffs marches into TPAC’s Jackson Hall March 3–8, telling the story of the brilliant, relentless, and often divided women who made that historic victory possible. Created by Shaina Taub, this exciting new work doesn’t simply revisit the fight for suffrage — it underscores how fragile progress can be, and how much courage it takes to defend it.

Before the national tour takes the Nashville stage, JHPEntertainment caught up with Suffs cast members Marya Grandy, Trisha Jeffrey, Victoria Pekel and Tami Dahbura for an abbreviated Rapid Fire Q&A conversation about legacy, love, activism, and why this story feels anything but confined to the past.

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RAPID FIRE 20Q WITH MEMBERS OF THE CAST OF SUFFS: THE MUSICAL

RAPID FIRE WITH SUFFS‘ Carrie Chapman Catt, ACTRESS MARYA GRANDY

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Carrie Chapman Catt was a strategic architect of the suffrage movement — how do you approach portraying such a politically savvy woman?

MARYA GRANDY: Carrie was an extremely driven individual. In Suffs, she loses perspective and gets bogged down in the idea of her way being the only way, even when it’s to her detriment, and to the detriment of the movement itself. Everyone has felt that way at one point or another in their lives, of being so focussed on being right that it renders you immovable. It is such a human reaction

RAPID FIRE WITH SUFFS‘ Mary Church Terrell, ACTRESS TRISHA JEFFREY

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Mary Church Terrell fought for both suffrage and racial equality — what has been most eye-opening about learning her history?

TRISHA JEFFREY: Suffs makes you want to do a serious deep dive into history to learn the facts on who these women were and what they really did. Mary Church Terrell was one of the first Black women to graduate college, a pioneering activist and educator who spoke four languages. She was the co-founder of the NACW — their acting president for three terms — as well as a co-founder of the NAACP. Mary fought tirelessly for racial and gender equality and her many victories proved that racism and sexism could be crushed simultaneously.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: How does Suffs handle the complicated intersections of race and feminism within the movement?

TRISHA JEFFREY: Racism within the movement was no secret and Mary was determined to confront it head-on, fighting for everything she believed in. When white suffragists chose to ignore and sideline the needs of Black women, telling them to march at the back of the line, Mary Church Terrell staged a coup, mobilizing Howard’s Delta Sigma Theta sorority to integrate the parade, igniting headlines. Mary still spoke on behalf of suffragists despite the obstacles within the movement for Black women.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Is there a particular element of the show that feels especially powerful from your perspective onstage?

TRISHA JEFFREY: Paul Tazewell’s amazing costume designs perfectly inform the era, the pride and regality of who Mary Church Terrell was, which is probably what my most favorite thing is about all her costumes. The details in Paul’s work are impeccable. As the artist, I can effortlessly slip into who Mary was, bringing me closer to how she must’ve felt and what her true vision was for the world. The hardest part is probably how hot I can get on stage from wearing so many genuine wool layers!

JHPENTERTAINMENT: What do you hope audiences take away about Mary Church Terrell after seeing the show?

TRISHA JEFFREY: Truth be told, Mary Church Terrell was a trailblazer. Instead of using her wealth to live an easy life, she chose to stand up for civil rights and women’s rights, fighting inexhaustibly until the day she died. Mary helped create significant change, leaving behind a legacy that deserves to be known worldwide.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Having performed in productions as varied as Rent and Motown, how does the musical style of Suffs compare?

TRISHA JEFFREY: Suffs is a musical unlike any other. It beautifully emulates what the women experienced in their lifetimes, set to gorgeous, riveting music that moves your soul and makes you want to jump out of your seat.

RAPID FIRE WITH SUFFS‘ Phyllis Terrell and Robin, ACTRESS VICTORIA PEKEL

JHPENTERTAINMENT: As a recent Yale grad who studied Political Science and Theater major, you just might have landed in the perfect show. Do you agree?

VICTORIA PEKEL: Absolutely! It genuinely feels like the perfect combination of my interests. I studied both Political Science and Theater Studies because I’ve always been passionate about storytelling and social change, and Suffs lives right at that intersection. Especially in this current political climate, getting to be part of a show that sparks conversations about progress and civic engagement feels incredibly meaningful. Art has always been a very powerful way to hold a lens up to our world, and Suffs reminds us that the right to vote exists because of people who decided it was worth fighting for and refused to give up.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Phyllis Terrell represents the younger generation observing the fight — what resonates most with you about her?

VICTORIA PEKEL: What resonates most with me is that she isn’t just observing the fight – she’s helping to finish it (reflected in the song “Finish the Fight” in the show). As a young person and someone who cares deeply about activism, it means a lot to represent the moment when the younger generation steps into a movement and realizes the fight now belongs to them. I love getting to talk with students at talkbacks or young people at the stage door who feel inspired by the story or relate to the character, especially young Black women. Both Phyllis and the other character I play, Robin, share this incredible determination and fire, and I really connect with that spirit.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: What has surprised you most about making your national tour debut with this production?

VICTORIA PEKEL: What has surprised me most is just how deeply the show impacts audiences. People cry every night, and getting to talk with them after the show is really special. I recently met two women in their seventies who had spent their life advocating for women’s rights, and they told me this show came at a moment when they were starting to feel discouraged. Hearing them and others talk about how hopeful the story made them feel, and how much they learned about this history, was incredibly moving. And of course, life on the road has been a bit of an adjustment — it’s definitely very different from my college dorm room!

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Mayte Natalio choreographed Suffs. Her work resulted in her receiving a Critics Choice Chita Rivera Award. Not exactly your typical Broadway musical dance-heavy show, how would you describe the choreo in Suffs?

VICTORIA PEKEL: Working with Mayte Natalio has been phenomenal. She’s not only a brilliant choreographer, but also such a thoughtful artist who brought the best energy to the rehearsal room. The choreography in Suffs feels very grounded in humanity and real movement. There are moments with more restrained, almost “ladylike” choreography that I believe reflects how women were expected to present themselves at the time, particularly with characters like Carrie Chapman Catt. But then there are songs like “The March” and “How Long” where the movement grows more passionate and expansive. My personal favorite is “Fire and Tea”, where the women protest at the White House gates by burning an effigy of Woodrow Wilson. The choreography leaves me out of breath in the best way. It feels earthy, powerful, and almost witchy. Sharp and yet fluid. It just captures Shaina Taub’s music beautifully.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Within your show bio, you dedicate this role to the memory of your mother. What aspect of this show, and your character in particular, do you think your mother would most-relate to?

VICTORIA PEKEL: There are many things about this show that I believe would have meant a lot to my mother, Tanya. One of the things I love about playing Phyllis, the daughter of Mary Church Terrell, is the connection to the Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, one of the nine historic Black Greek-letter organizations. Mary Church Terrell was the sorority’s first honorary member and helped shape some of its founding principles. My mom was a proud Delta, along with my late grandmother and my aunts, so I come from a family of Deltas — a group deeply dedicated to activism and service in our communities. Every night we get to reference the Deltas showing up to the 1913 March even while Black women were being marginalized and excluded within the suffrage movement. That moment means a lot to me personally. My mother was a trailblazer and an incredibly strong woman, and I think about her every night when we honor the women who paved the way.

RAPID FIRE WITH SUFFS‘ Mollie Hay, ACTRESS TAMI DAHBURA

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Mollie Hay was one of the younger, more radical suffragists — what excites you most about stepping into her fire?

TAMI DAHBURA: I was excited to delve into finding out more about Mollie since we are so completely different. Her devotion to the causes she believed in was very inspiring to me, yet somewhat intimidating because I’ve never been a particularly political person. Mollie’s energy and devotion to the causes she believed in — women’s suffrage and the Temperance Movement — were seemingly endless. Mollie’s life, as well as being a part of Suffs, is really motivating me to become more involved in politics.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: You also cover powerhouse Alva Belmont. How different is it playing a street-level activist versus a major financial force behind the movement?

TAMI DAHBURA: Well, Alva seemed to be able to delegate people to do the hard work for her. All she had to do was write a check — or have someone write a check for her. Mollie was definitely “feet on the ground” involved in all her causes.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Suffs’ creator Shaina Taub has spoken about including Mollie’s relationship with Carrie Chapman Catt within the structure of the musical. Do you think it’s vital to highlight their relationship, even if just as a notable aside?

TAMI DAHBURA: It is definitely very important and vital to this piece, and any recounting of this era in history. We need to normalize love in ALL its forms, and we need to let people know that love IS love IS love. Whether it be for a cause or another person. Mollie and Carrie loved their causes and they loved each other deeply. They were together for well over 30 years — a lot longer than a lot of marriages and relationships. They were a true testimony to a wonderful partnership in life and love. This is something that I feel is important to show and share with audiences everywhere.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: As Mollie, you’re a part Act 2’s “Fire & Tea” number. What’s your favorite aspect of this particular moment in the show?

TAMI DAHBURA: Well, Mollie does not say a lot in this scene, but she is listening and reacting very intensely, and I thought it was very important for me to focus on these two actions. Even though Carrie is doing most of the talking, Mollie is actively behind her supporting her in that unspoken way that partners do for each other. You can see everything both women are fighting for in this moment in my face and my physicality. I don’t really need to say anything in order for the audience to see and feel everything I am feeling in that moment.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: What do you hope audiences take with them after experiencing Suffs?

TAMI DAHBURA: I really hope that audiences learn how important it is for all of us to continue to fight for human rights — especially for women. We are in a time in history that these rights are being threatened, and it is incumbent on all of us to be vigilant and active in ensuring that our human rights are not stripped away. I also hope that audiences learn that even though things are hard to do, they can still be achieved through hard work and persistence — and LOVE!

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Direct from Broadway, Suffs arrives in Nashville fresh off its Tony Award wins and widespread critical acclaim. Created by Shaina Taub, this thrilling and emotionally charged musical shines a spotlight on the brilliant, passionate, and often divided women who fought tirelessly for the right to vote. Beyond the accolades lies a story that feels especially resonant here in Tennessee — the final battleground that secured ratification of the 19th Amendment. More than a century after Tennessee cast the deciding vote, Suffs reminds us that history is not just something we inherit — it’s something we shape. And sometimes, it only takes one voice to tip the balance.

The national tour plays TPAC’s Jackson Hall March 3–8 with the following performances: Tuesday, March 3 – Friday, March 6 with 7:30pm curtain, Saturday, March 7 – 2:00pm & 7:30pm, Sunday, March 8 – 1:00pm* & 6:30pm.

*Sunday’s 1pm performance includes ASL interpretation, Open Captioning, Audio Description, and Large Print and Braille programs.

To purchase tickets to Suffs at TPAC, CLICK HERE. Following Suffs, Broadway at TPAC‘s 2025-2026 Season continues with another Music City debut as Back to the Future takes to the stage March 17-22. CLICK HERE for tickets or more info. Follow TPAC on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube & TikTok. 

Not in Nashville? Catch Suffs in a city near you as the National Tour continues with stops in Charlotte, Boston, Dayton, Minneapolis, Detriot and more through summer of 2026. CLICK HERE for upcoming tour stops. Keep up with all things Suffs via the show’s socials on  Facebook, Insta, X , TikTok and YouTube.

As always, if you wanna follow JHPEntertainment to find out who I’m chatting with for my next Rapid Fire Q&A, or for my take on the latest local and national theatre, music and movie offerings, visit JHPENTERTAINMENT.com or find us on Facebook, Insta and Twitter. In the meantime… #GoSeeTheShow!

Theatre Review: Nashville Rep’s Collab with Nashville Shakes Serves Up ‘Fat Ham’ with Sauce and Soul and We’re All Invited to the Cookout; On Stage at TPAC’s Johnson Theatre thru February 22

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Okay, okay, I’ll admit it. When I was assigned to read Shakespeare‘s Hamlet in high school and again in college, I read the Cliff’s Notes instead of diving in to the full text. Even if I had read the play, nothing could have prepared me for just how relatable and uniquely enjoyable playwright James Ijames‘ take, Fat Ham is, especially in the hands of Nashville Rep‘s current production directed by Mikael Burke, featuring a truly stellar cast and co-presented by Nashville Shakespeare Festival; on stage at TPAC‘s Johnson Theatre thru Sunday, February 22.

Yes, I know the basic themes: familial strife, loyalty, deceit, treachery and death, but my Hamlet knowledge lies more in that episode of Gilligan’s Island in which the castaways turn The Bard’s classic into an unintentionally comedic musical than in the original text. Here’s the cool thing though…you don’t have to be a literary elitist to understand or fully revel in this Pulitzer Prize-winning adaptation.

Over the past 400 years or so, Hamlet has been presented in settings from war zones to psychiatric wards. IJames’ Fat Ham, not only modernizes it, but takes some brilliant liberties . Flipping the script by peppering the dialogue with quick comebacks, modern references and hot topics while also including clever nods to familiar soliloquies. Nashville Repertory Theatre’s co-production with Nashville Shakespeare Festival brings the story to vibrant life for the regional premiere.

The Bard’s Elsinore Castle now replaced by the everyman kingdom of a backyard cookout in the American South. There’s a grill smoking, table and chairs set for an impromptu wedding celebration, and the low hum of family history hanging in the air. At the center is Juicy—a young, Black man haunted not only by the ghost of his recently deceased father, but also a few internal battles ranging from his own sexuality and what his future holds to protective feelings towards his mother and disdain of his uncle. Early on, The ghost insists he was murdered by Juicy’s uncle, who is now celebrating his engagement to Juicy’s mother. The parallels to Hamlet are unmistakable—but the lens is entirely new.

While I myself as probably considered as white as Wonder Bread, so many of Ijames’ themes, ideals and plot devices resonate with me in the best, most unexpected ways. Through that unmistakable Southern family bond, the familiar rhythms of a backyard gathering, Ijames reframes the story not as a tragedy of indecision, but as a meditation on inherited trauma and the radical act of choosing something different, all with a darkly comedic twist.

The production leans into that communal spirit. The humor lands with knowing precision, the shade draws audible reactions, and the audience feels invited into the rhythm of the gathering.

As Juicy, this retelling’s Hamlet, Julian “Joolz” Stroop delivers a performance that is instantly mesmerizing. Dressed in black, but with flare that lets us know they’re their own person deep down, Stroop’s Juicy is a stark contrast to the bright, bustling energy around them, Stroop embodies what it means to feel different within your own family. Their Juicy is wickedly sarcastic, deeply unsure of themself, yet painfully self-aware. Where Shakespeare’s Hamlet spirals toward destruction, Juicy wrestles with whether violence is the only inheritance available. Stroop captures the tension between rage and restraint with remarkable control. You can see the weight of expectation pressing in—the desire to prove themself to a father who was cruel in life and demanding in death. Stroop’s performance reflects the universal burden of feeling unseen, and when ultimately questioning the necessity of revenge, it lands with emotional clarity. Whether performing a telling karaoke number at the BBQ, sharing a laugh with friends, a more intimate moment with a lifelong crush or tense scenes with parental figures, Stroop steps up and shows out in a memorable Nashville Rep debut performance.

Tamiko Robinson Steele’s Tedra, the Queen Gertrude counterpart, is a sheer joy to behold from her first entrance on. She exudes sensual confidence and the unapologetic energy of a woman determined to find happiness on her own terms. One of my longtime favorite regional actresses, Robinson Steele masterfully reveals the emotional compromises beneath that surface. Like Gertrude, Tedra aligns herself with the new man quickly—but here, the choice feels rooted in survival and stability rather than simple obliviousness. Robinson Steele balances humor and depth beautifully, embodying a mother navigating grief, desire, and the societal pressures that center men in her world. And did I spot a bit of gold in that megawatt smile? A fun nod to Queen Gertrude and Tedra’s own status at the Queen of her castle. Nice touch.

Speaking of royalty, the aptly named Bakari J. King indeed commands the stage in the dual roles of Rev (Claudius) and Pap’s ghost (the Ghost of King Hamlet). As Rev, he radiates the swaggering authority of a man who believes the world revolves around him. Think George Jefferson…on steroids.  As Pap, he shifts into something sharper and more unsettling. Gotta love that toothbrush shiv sticking out of his neck. King’s ability to transition between the earthly manipulator and the glittering, vengeful apparition is a testament to his range. In scenes with Stroop, the tension between the two is a thick as the accompanying fog machine—he generational trauma thickening the air like the aroma of pork shoulder on the grill. King grounds both roles in recognizable patriarchal power, avoiding caricature while leaning fully into the characters’ egos.

As Larry, the Laertes counterpart, Michael A. McAllister-Spurgeon initially leans into bravado and expected masculinity. But as the story unfolds, he allows vulnerability to seep through the cracks. Like Laertes, Larry is poised to embrace retaliation—but McAllister-Spurgeon reveals the insecurity driving that impulse. His performance underscores how young men inherit scripts of aggression without ever being asked whether they want them. The nuance he brings elevates Larry from stereotype to fully realized human being. And that finale reveal….YAAAAAAS!

Candace-Omnira reimagines Ophelia through Opal with warmth, wit, and agency. Unlike Shakespeare’s more fragile Ophelia, this Opal is emotionally grounded and self-aware. She perfectly balances buoyancy with sincerity, creating a character who feels refreshingly modern. Her chemistry with Stroop is honest and believable, offering Juicy a glimpse of something healthier than the violent expectations placed upon him. Candace-Omnira’s comedic timing shines in ensemble scenes, but it’s her emotional steadiness that leaves a lasting impression.

Persephone Felder-Fentress steps into a gender-switched Polonius role as Rabby, Larry and Opal’s mother, with sharp comedic precision. While Shakespeare’s Polonius is verbose and meddlesome, Rabby feels more direct and grounded. Felder-Fentress handles the humor effortlessly, but she also brings a relatable maternal complexity to the role. You know that female relative who always pinched your cheeks as a kid and inevitable asks “when are you getting yourself a girlfriend?” That’s Felder-Fentress’ Rabby. The dynamic between Rabby, Larry, and Opal textbook good christian family facade masking those things we don’t talk about beneath the surface. Y’all, during Rev’s pre-feast prayer, when I noticed Felder-Fentress’s Rabby clicking her bejeweled heels together in prayerful agreement to each thing Rev mentioned, I knew I longed for an invitation to the cookout!

Rounding out the players is Gerold Oliver’s Tio, the Horatio character. Though his stage-time is limited, he is a delight as usual. His comedic timing, pulled facial expressions and overall demeanor a joy to watch. Yet Oliver ensures Tio is more than comic relief. In a climactic, albeit alter-state-induced monologue that begins like a muchie-fueled rambling, but soon climaxes into something unexpectedly profound. Oliver lands the humor and the wisdom with equal finesse as Tio reminds the audience of the play’s core truth: “Far as we know, we are in the only place in the cosmos that welcomes our particular brand of life. Why waste it trying to be miserable cause it’s gonna make somebody else happy?”

Behind the scenes, the crew of Fat Ham is just as stacked. From the beginning, it’s evident that director Mikael Burke understands the world of this play down to its bones. There’s an easy authenticity to the staging that makes the backyard feel lived-in and immediate. Director Burtke’s stage direction keeps the audience’s attention and the action moving, while never becoming too chaotic. The show’s more intimate moments are perfectly choreographed down to the most dramatic sneer or the subtlest caress.

Once again Nashville Rep’s resident Scenic Designer Gary C. Hoff’ has created a set I could live in. With what appears to be a modular home set on a brick-o-block basement—complete with grill, patio furniture, and a sliding glass door (complete with time-worn smudges) offering a glimpse into the house, and even the inclusion of fallen leaves on the rooftop— it feels less like a theatrical construct and more like an actual family gathering you’ve stumbled into. I absolutely loved the little detail of the “Happy” half of an old “Happy Birthday” banner hanging with balloons as the last-minute party decor, while the “Birthday” half of the banner is visible discarded in the trash can by the basement door, just another way in which this set looks lived in and real, not simply constructed for the show. Ijames’ script heightens the immersive aspect by including a few fourth-wall breaking lines like “what are you telling them” as actors nod toward the audience in acknowledgement. The echoes of real-life cookouts: home-cooked food and fun with a side order of judgment from elders, unlocking palpable memories.

Amber Whatley’s lighting brilliantly shifts from warm afternoon glow to something cooler and more spectral when Pap’s ghost appears, then changing throughout from the familiarity of a family gather to the intensity of truths revealed. Nivedhan Singh’s sound design underscores both the humor and the haunting without overwhelming the text and lifting the mood when called for.

Melissa K. Durmon’s costume, hair, and makeup design ground each character in specificity—these are people you recognize, rendered with care and intention. Gotta love Durmon’s attention to detail fully on display in the color palate of each cast member’s wardrobe. Tedra and Rev are regal and grounded in traditions of marriage and conformity in shades of red and earth tones, while Tedra’s more animalistic urgers are represented in the addition of an animal print. Juicy’s uncertainty is isolation visually present in his monochromatic wardrobe, but his love of his mother, a message literally emblazoned across his chest, while his sarcasm and flair evident in an added accessory. Rabby’s family ties are representing in all three members in shades of blue, a symbol of loyalty and nobility. Durmon again highlights individuality among these three from Larry’s rigid uniform and Opal’s subtle defiance pairing a forced dress with combat boots, while the matriarch presents authority and perceived (or hoped-for) regality in her royal blue ensemble complete with matching church lady hat, purse and bejeweled heels. Then there’s Tio, whose casual colorful style remind us all that there is lightness around, we just have to be willing to see it.

What makes Fat Ham so powerful, and ultimately relatable to modern audiences is its refusal to follow Shakespeare to the grave. Where Hamlet ends in bloodshed, Fat Ham asks whether that ending is inevitable—or merely inherited. By centering Black culture, queer identity, and the specificity of a backyard cookout, Ijames expands the original rather than replicating it.

Fat Ham treats Shakespeare as a blueprint, a playbook—ripe for reinterpretation, reclamation, and joy. A great reminder that the themes of revenge, masculinity, grief, and identity are universal, whether played out in Danish castles, Elizabethan stages or right in our own back yard. Themes that are found in every backyard, every family, every life. Like I told my friend who accompanied me to Nashville Rep’s Opening Night of Fat Ham, “Who knew Willie Shakes could be so fun?”

Nashville Rep‘ and Nashville Shakes‘ co-production of FAT HAM continues with performances through Sunday, February 22. CLICK HERE for tickets. Next up at Nashville Rep will be SISTER ACT April 10-19. Closing out the season will be Amy Tofte‘s BLOOD SUCKING LEECH, as part of Nashville Rep‘s New Works: Next Stage, after having presented a staged reading of Tofte’s work just last season. CLICK HERE to purchase tickets.

As always, check out Nashville Rep online and follow them on Facebook, X, YouTube and Instagram.

If you wanna follow JHPEntertainment to find out who I’m chatting with for my next Rapid Fire Q&A, or for my take on the latest local and national theatre, music and movie offerings, find us at JHPEntertainment on Facebook JHPEntertainment on Instagram  and JHPEntertainment on Twitter. Got an event or show we should know about, drop us a line at the Contact tab. Till then, #GoSeeTheShow!

Theater Review: Keeton Dinner Theatre Hooks Delightful Tall Tale with ‘Big Fish’; on Stage Through February 22

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From the first triumphant notes of the all-in opening number Be the Hero, The Keeton’s production of “Big Fish” announces itself with confidence, color, and heart. Andrew Lippa and John August’s Drama Desk–nominated musical has always walked a delicate line between spectacle and sincerity, and under the direction of Aaron Gray, this staging embraces both.

Gray keeps the father–son relationship firmly at the center. Even as witches appear, giants roam, and daffodils bloom by the hundreds, the emotional throughline never wavers: this is a story about legacy, about listening, and about what we choose to believe.

As Edward Bloom, Micheal Walley bursts onto the stage with charisma and conviction. From his first entrance, his speech pattern and delivery lands near Mark Twain’s distinctive Southern storytelling drawl — deliberate, charming, measured — and for some reason put me in mind of French Stewart’s Harry Solomon from “Third Rock from the Sun”, quick with an unexpected sarcastic bite. The blend gives Edward both homespun authenticity and razor-edged comedic timing, a balance that keeps the character from drifting into caricature. The subtle but effective vocal change between younger Edward to his more frail self in later years is quite interesting to take in.

Be the Hero sets the tone — brassy, buoyant, unapologetically theatrical — and Walley meets the marathon demands of Lippa’s eclectic score with stamina and emotional nuance. As Walley revealed in my recent Rapid Fire 20Q with the show’s director, Walley and two of his fellow cast members, he’s a self-proclaimed “actor who sings”. That said, his Edward isn’t simply performing for applause; he’s inviting us into possibility.

Edward’s early adventures unfold with theatrical flourish. Miya Nicole Burt delivers a bewitching — and yes, pun entirely intended — turn as The Witch. Her presence is equal parts playful and ominous, her vocals slicing cleanly through Lippa’s driving rhythms while maintaining an alluring mystique. In particular, during her early solo during The Witch, hers is a performance that anchors one of the show’s most pivotal revelations.

Then there is Karl. Portrayed by Gray Miller, the gentle giant is, quite literally, larger than life. Miller commands the stage both physically and emotionally, bringing warmth and childlike innocence to the towering role. Remarkably, he had never walked on stilts before rehearsals began — a fact that makes his comfort and control in performance all the more impressive. What could have been a novelty becomes a fully realized character, and one the audience revels in seeing.

Musically, the production is in confident hands. Under the direction of Ian Mannino, the orchestra navigates Lippa’s stylistic range — from Broadway brass to tender balladry to gospel-infused exuberance — with clarity and cohesion. Mannino ensures the score supports the storytelling rather than overpowering it.

Choreographer Andrea Campbell, working in clear collaboration with director Aaron Gray, makes masterful use of The Keeton’s intimate stage. With a cast of twenty, filling the space without overwhelming it is no small feat, yet the production never once feels crowded. Instead, it feels alive. From kick lines to tap and everything in between, the variety of choreography reflects the musical’s tonal shifts while showcasing the ensemble’s versatility. One can only imagine the rigor of rehearsals required to master such range within spatial constraints, and the ensemble rises to the challenge with precision and enthusiasm. Director Gray deserves equal praise for staging that maximizes every inch of the performance area, creating dynamic stage pictures that feel expansive, an appropriate nod to the story’s 2003 cinematic retelling courtesy Tim Burton‘s film adaptation, despite the venue’s modest footprint.

Equally essential to that visual storytelling is Kevin Driver‘s set design. From the opening scene in which the backdrop of the Bloom family house and picket fence appear in mostly in silhouette, there’s an immediate storybook feel to the actors’ surroundings. Balancing storybook whimsy with practical fluidity, the stage elements allow scenes to transition seamlessly from small-town Alabama to mythic landscapes without interrupting the show’s pacing or emotional rhythm. The stage area’s aquatic element…quite effective and fanciful.

If Walley’s Edward provides the fireworks, Claire Yancy as Edward’s lifelong love, Sandra provides the stillness — and the soaring vocals. Yancey’s vocal prowess is undeniable. Her tone is rich, controlled, and emotionally open, particularly in Time Stops, where the courtship unfolds in suspended romantic glow. As Sandra matures into the family’s emotional anchor, Yancey deepens the portrayal beautifully. Her performance of I Don’t Need a Roof becomes one of the evening’s most affecting moments — restrained, resolute, and vocally luminous.

Jacob Hinnen as Edward’s adult son, delivers a fully believable, emotionally grounded portrayal of Will Bloom. Hinnen never pushes for sympathy; instead, he allows Will’s frustration and skepticism to emerge organically. The result is authenticity. As Will prepares to become a father himself, the shift in perspective is subtle yet powerful. You believe him — every step of the way.

With an ensemble of twenty actors, it would be nearly impossible to single out every strong performance, but several deserve special mention. Audrey Bagley, as Josephine, perfectly portrays her devotion to Will while balancing a genuine fascination with her seemingly eccentric future father-in-law. Her warmth and quiet curiosity add texture to the generational dynamic at the heart of the story.

Ryman Stanton, portraying Young Will, delivers a heartfelt performance that marks his third production with the company, further securing his place as a full-fledged member of The Keeton family. His enthusiastic appreciation of his father’s tall tales strengthens and perfectly exemplifies the emotional bridge between past and present.

In the supporting but pivotal role of Jenny Hill, Jessica Fonville makes an impressive Keeton debut, convincingly aging nearly forty years over the course of the production. Her transformation, while only slightly visually different, is emotional and understated, grounding one of the show’s most poignant and surprising storylines to life.

There are also delightful scene-stealers throughout the ensemble. Among them, Wanderson Rezende, who has the rare ability to catch the audience’s eye with a subtle facial flex or an intentionally flamboyant gesture, commanding attention in both restraint and exuberance. Meanwhile, Tommy Anglim, another Keeton favorite, repeatedly makes audiences double-take with the quickness of his rapid costume changes,  shifting characters — including Dr. Bennett — with ease and in record time.

As the story moves toward its conclusion, fantasy and reality stop competing and begin coexisting. The final sequences land with earned emotional resonance. YES, my eyes began to sweat! Walley softens into fragility without losing Edward’s spark. Hinnen allows Will’s understanding to shift naturally. Bagley’s support, a needed comfort. Yancey’s quiet strength anchors it all.

What makes The Keeton’s “Big Fish” succeed is not simply its theatrical flourish, inventive choreography, cohesive musical direction, or imaginative scenic design — though all are present in abundance. It is the belief at its center, and the message at its core: Heroes are not defined by perfection. They are defined by the stories that outlive them. In this heartfelt, thoughtfully crafted production, those stories will certainly swim long after the curtain falls.

BIG FISH continues at The Keeton through Sunday, February 22. Thursday performances are show only with Doors at 6:30pm and Show at 7pm. Friday & Saturday Doors at 5:45pm/Dinner at 6pm and Show at 7pm. Sunday matinee Doors at 12:45pm/Meal at 1pm and Show at 2pm. Show Only Tickets: $30.00 (Thursday performances), Adult Dinner and Show: $40.00, Child Dinner and Show: $35.00. CLICK HERE for tickets.

Following BIG FISH, The Keeton will present “The Play That Goes Wrong” with performances April 10-26. So you don’t miss out on upcoming shows at The Keeton Dinner Theatre, follow them on Facebook, X and Instagram.

Interested in coverage for your latest entertaining endeavor? Click the contact page and drop me a note. You can also follow JHP Entertainment on Instagram and Facebook. In the meantime, #GoSeeTheShow!

Rapid Fire 20Q with Director and Cast of Playhouse 615’s ‘A Bad Year for Tomatoes’; On Stage Through February 22

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Last weekend, Playhouse 615 opened their current production, A Bad Year for Tomatoes, the classic farce by John Patrick that proves small towns, big secrets, and sudden chaos are a recipe for nonstop laughs. Now on stage through February 22, this fresh Nashville staging brings together returning-to-the-stage performers, fearless comedic timing, and a creative team eager to let the absurdity bloom. In this Rapid Fire 20Q, we chat with stars Michele Geller-Crain, Melissa Peduzzi, Katarie Herman, and director Preston Raymer , touching on everything from embracing farce to Uta Hagen!

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RAPID FIRE 20 Q WITH DIRECTOR & CAST OF A BAD YEAR FOR TOMATOES

RAPID FIRE WITH A BAD YEAR FOR TOMATOES’ MYRA, MICHELE GELLER-CRAIN

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Myra Marlowe is a star, a recluse, and a walking contradiction — what was the first thing that clicked for you about her

MICHELE GELLER-CRAIN: What first clicked for me was the contradiction at the heart of Myra. She lives under a spotlight she never fully chose, yet all she really wants is control over her own life. I’ve always been somewhat feisty and a people pleaser myself, and I know how easy it is to get lost in the persona you present to the world instead of staying connected to who you really are.

I also tend to attract people who want to take care of me, and Myra does too. There’s something powerful and enjoyable about feeling like the star, as long as you remember to share the stage.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: As Myra (and her assumed identity, Sadie) balance elegance and absolute absurdity in this role — how do you keep Myra grounded while the farce spirals?

MICHELE GELLER-CRAIN: Myra uses humor to stay grounded. Her life is a nonstop cycle of lights, camera, action—parties, paparazzi, scandal, and always answering to someone else. With so little control, her drive for privacy and self-determination is essential. Reclaiming that control and discovering who she really is is the fire that keeps her grounded.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: You’ve directed and taught for years — does leaving those responsibilities to your director feel freeing, challenging, or both?

MICHELE GELLER-CRAIN: It’s both freeing and challenging. I may have a million ideas that I may think are better, but I have to stay in my own lane and remind myself to keep my mouth shut. The fun is in letting go, trusting the director’s vision, and diving fully into the acting—even when every instinct is screaming, “Here’s what I’d do!”

JHPENTERTAINMENT: You play both the glamorous Myra and her very different fictional sister Sadie — how did working with Costuming Consultant Gwendolyn Clinton help you physically and psychologically separate those two women?

MICHELE GELLER-CRAIN: First of all, Gwendolyn is amazing! She gave me some classic notes—like, “Maybe wear pants under that dress,” which, yes, probably should’ve thought of that myself. As for Sadie? Oh, she’s a little mix of all four of my kids, and a sprinkle of the crazy from Brittany Murphy’s character in Don’t Say a Word. Basically, just a hot mess with a lot of heart—and I love playing her. Distinguishing between Myra and Sadie is basically separating the rose from the thorn.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: If Myra were write YOUR autobiography, what do you think she’d focus on that you might rather she leave out?

MICHELE GELLER-CRAIN: I’m pretty much an open book, so I’m not sure there’s anything she could write about that I wouldn’t want her to. I wear my heart on my sleeve, ask questions that are probably none of my business, and love my husband and children with every ounce of my being—let her tell the world on every page!

RAPID FIRE WITH A BAD YEAR FOR TOMATOES’ REBA, MELISSA PEDUZZI

JHPENTERTAINMENT: After a 25-year break, what was the moment in rehearsal when you thought, “Oh yeah — this is why I missed this”?

MELISSA PEDUZZI: From the very first read-through, it was like a part of me I didn’t even realize was missing clicked back into place. Being in the room with such a talented cast, hearing them breathe life into this script, and getting to tell the story set in this small town in Beaver Haven was such a gift. Not to get too sentimental, but every rehearsal since has built on that, and I look forward to showing up every night to see what magic is created!

JHPENTERTAINMENT: How do you balance sincerity with comedy within Reba?

MELISSA PEDUZZI: I think sincerity and comedy go hand in hand. The more reality and depth we can bring to these characters, the more the comedy hits. I just try to embody Reba each show and let the absurdity of life be the comedian.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Tomatoes…fruit OR vegetable?

MELISSA PEDUZZI: Both! Tomatoes belong everywhere for every occasion. They’re too delicious to keep contained in one category.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: This show features some strong female characters, but was written by a man and Playhouse 615’s production is being directed and assistant directed by men. How’s that working out?

MELISSA PEDUZZI: I feel like the actresses in this show have been heard, celebrated, and given so much creative space to make these characters jump off the page and shine. It’s been an incredibly safe and collaborative environment, and I’m grateful to have been part of it!

JHPENTERTAINMENT: If Reba Harper were to give you one piece of life advice, what do you think it would be?

MELISSA PEDUZZI: Always bring your crochet – you never know when you might need to sit a while with someone who needs you, and idle hands are the devil’s handiwork, after all!

RAPID FIRE WITH A BAD YEAR FOR TOMATOES’ CORA, KATARIE “KAT” HERMAN

JHPENTERTAINMENT: This is your return to the stage after 15 years — what finally pulled you back into theatre?

KATARIE HERMAN: Actually my partner pushed me to do it. She told me that if I love acting so much I should just put myself out there. She inspires me so much.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Cora Gump has opinions, suspicions, and zero filter — what part of her do you secretly enjoy the most?

KATARIE HERMAN: Cora is definitely ADHD and I love that she just says what comes up in her brain.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: How did it feel jumping into this farce where timing, listening, and reaction are everything?

KATARIE HERMAN: Oh my goodness it’s hectic because there is so much going on and I tend to focus on something new every time. That makes every single rehearsal and run through different so different reactions. It’s fun though.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Cora spends a lot of time observing — how has Wanderson Rezende’s set design help inform where Cora places herself, what she notices, and how she inserts herself into the action?

KATARIE HERMAN: It’s fun moving around the set and kind of just interacting with everything. I’m always just everywhere so there’s always something new to play with.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: What’s it like sharing scenes with Michele?

KATARIE HERMAN: Working with Michelle has been joyous. I’ve learned so much from her. She leaves me in awe.

RAPID FIRE WITH A BAD YEAR FOR TOMATOES’ DIRECTOR, PRESTON ALEXANDER RAYMER

JHPENTERTAINMENT: IF my research and memory serve me, A Bad Year for Tomatoes hasn’t been seen in Nashville in over a decade since a much-loved production at the now-defunct Chaffin’s Barn Dinner Theatre— what makes now feel like the right moment to bring this farce back to local audiences?

PRESTON ALEXANDER RAYMER: I think it’s a show that everyone can relate to. As humans, we are constantly evolving and embracing whatever “chaos” comes our way, and it’s up to us to decide how we handle it. It makes me think of the Bear Grylls quote, “Improve, Adapt, Overcome”.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: You show bio boldly touts your directing style as blending Constantine Stanislavsky and Uta Hagen techniques — how exactly do those methods show up in a fast, physical comedy like this?

PRESTON ALEXANDER RAYMER: Because in a Comedy, you cannot “play the comedy”. As Uta says, you must play a comedy like a drama, and in order to do that you must find and play your “Objectives, Obstacles, and Actions” (Stanislavsky).

JHPENTERTAINMENT: This is your first show as director at Playhouse 615 — what surprised you most about stepping into that role in this space?

PRESTON ALEXANDER RAYMER: What surprised me the most was the new talent that came out to audition.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: You’ve worked with Playhouse 615 cofounder Joel Meriwether a few times over the last year. As an actor, he directed you in The Haunting of Hill House and you served as his assistant director in two shows. Now he’s your assistant director. How have previous collaborations shaped your approach to directing A Bad Year for Tomatoes and working with Joel with you at the helm of this production?

PRESTON ALEXANDER RAYMER: It helped me to know the “atmosphere” of Playhouse 615 and how they operate.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: If audiences walk away with one thing stuck in their heads after curtain call, what do you hope it is?

PRESTON ALEXANDER RAYMER: I hope they walk away reflecting on the “chaos” in their own life and recognize what things are truly important to them.

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A Bad Year for Tomatoes is now on stage at Playhouse 615 (1190 Lebanon Road, Mt. Juliet, TN) and continues through Sunday, February 22. Friday and Saturday evening performances begin at 7:30pm, with Sunday matinees at 2:30pm. Tickets are $17 for Military and Seniors, and $20 for Adults. All seating is General Admision/First Come First Served. CLICK HERE for tickets. For more on the show — and to keep up with what’s next at Playhouse 615, including their upcoming production of The Little Foxes on stage March 20–April 5 — check out their website or follow them on Instagram and Facebook.

As always, if you wanna follow JHPEntertainment to find out who I’m chatting with for my next Rapid Fire Q&A, or for my take on the latest local and national theatre, music and movie offerings, visit JHPENTERTAINMENT.com or find us on Facebook, Insta and Twitter. Till then #GoSeeTheShow!

Theatre Review: ‘SIX: the musical’; Henry VIII’s Wives Hold Court and Reign Supreme as National Tour Continues

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The Queen of ‘SIX’ US National Tour (all photos by Joan Marcus, courtesy SIX on Tour)

As I mentioned in my recent Rapid Fire 20Q with the show’s Alternates the premise of SIX cheekily presents the history—or should I say HERstory—of King Henry VIII’s wives through a modern pop lens. Think: what if the Spice Girls were competing against each other on American Idol, but make it Tudoresque. That’s SIX in a rhinestoned corset, and it knows exactly how ridiculous—and how brilliant—that sounds.

From its opening beat drop to its final glitter-soaked mic pass, SIX wastes no time announcing exactly what it is: a Broadway musical engineered like a pop concert. Now playing Nashville’s TPAC Jackson Hall, the national tour of the Tony-winning hit delivers history as a high-gloss remix—loud, funny, and meticulously attuned to modern pop and R&B influences. Performed without an intermission, SIX unfolds as a 90-minute showdown where heartbreak, harmony, and bass drops battle for supremacy.

Tuesday’s opening night of the Music City tour stop featured all six primary cast members, giving Nashville audiences the full force of the tour’s leading Queens right out of the gate. While it was undeniably thrilling to see the principals in action, I’ll admit to a slight pang of disappointment that none of the four alternates I recently interviewed for the Rapid Fire 20Q were onstage that evening—a very specific kind of theater-nerd heartbreak.

The show kicks off with “Ex-Wives”, an all-in girl-group manifesto disguised as a history lesson, instantly embedding the now-iconic refrain “Divorced, beheaded, died / Divorced, beheaded, survived” into the audience’s collective brain. The Queens emerge in a unified visual language —Tudor corsetry fused with pop-star silhouettes, metallic finishes, studs, and platform boots—each Queen’s attire color-coded yet cohesively styled courtesy costumer Gabriella Slade. Tim Deiling‘s Concert lighting pulses like a stadium opener, making it clear these women are here to headline, not footnote.

Emma Elizabeth Smith (Catherine of Aragon) steps forward first with “No Way”, clad in commanding yellow and gold with accents of black—a direct references to her Spanish roots, the wealth of the Spanish crown, and the opulence of the Catholic Church. The regal palette reinforces Catherine’s authority as the original Queen, while the structured corset and bold detailing give visual weight to her refusal to be dismissed. As Smith belts “I’m not sorry for my honesty,” the look radiates righteousness and resolve.

The mood flips into mischievous rebellion with Nella Cole (Anne Boleyn) and “Don’t Lose Ur Head”. Draped in unmistakable green, Boleyn’s costume offers an obvious nod to “Greensleeves”, despite the enduring myth that Henry VIII wrote it for her—a bit of historical irony the show knowingly side-eyes. Punk-pop detailing and playful asymmetry reinforce Anne’s flirtatious chaos. It’s bubblegum pop as survival tactic—a little Katy Perry, but with the very real threat of the axe.

The evening’s emotional pivot arrives with Kelly Denice Taylor (Jane Seymour) and “Heart of Stone”. Her corseted white costume trimmed in black, complete with sleeves and skirt panels reminiscent of chainmaille armor, signals purity without fragility and strength without aggression. The design quietly reinforces Seymour’s emotional fortitude as Taylor laments “Soon I’ll have to go / I’ll never see him grow,” allowing stillness and restraint to become some of the most powerful choices of the night.

Before the competition resumes, SIX detonates into full high-camp absurdity with another all-in. “Haus of Holbein”, with its neon accents, blacklight, exaggerated silhouettes, and stylized poses turn the stage into a Renaissance runway on rave mode. Sonically, the number leans hard into Madonna’s club-era maximalism, evoking the relentless pulse and fashion-as-performance-art ethos of “Ray of Light”–era remixes (with a little SNL‘s Dieter accent exaggeration thrown in)—less spiritual awakening, more high-fashion satire. It’s ridiculous, deliberate, and exactly the reset the show needs.

Swagger floods the stage with Hailey Alexis Lewis (Anna of Cleves) and “Get Down”. Dressed in unapologetic red, Cleves’ costume signals defiance—she is, after all, one of only two wives to divorce Henry and live. Rolled fabric at the shoulders cleverly references her infamous portrait, reframed here as armor rather than flaw. The Euro-pop anthem pulls heavily from Atlanta trap-pop energy, particularly the minimalist bounce and swagger-forward attitude that put me in mindof Beyoncé’s “7/11”. When Lewis declares “I’m the Queen of the castle, Get down you dirty rascal,” the lyric lands as deserved prophecy, not threat.

There’s an interesting shift in tone with Alizé Cruz (Katherine Howard) and “All You Wanna Do”. Her pink-and-black costume reflects youthful vitality layered with looming danger—the sweetness of pink undercut (no pun intended) by the severity of black. What begins flirtatious quickly curdles as the repetition of “All you wanna do, baby” exposes the song’s darker truth. As the lighting cools and the meaning sharpens, the visual contrast underscores just how trapped Howard truly is. It’s Britney‘s “Womanizer”, sing-songy and fun, but if the aggressor had access to the guillotine.

The competition’s final turn belongs to Tasia Jungbauer (Catherine Parr), who reframes the entire premise (what are they competing? Who would even remember Henry were it not for them?) with “I Don’t Need Your Love”. Wearing black and blue, and notably incorporating pants, Parr’s look subtly nods to shifting fashions centuries after her lifetime while underscoring her independence as the Queen who survived. Clean lines and minimal ornamentation allow Catherine to declare “I don’t need your love / I just need to tell my story”.

When the Queens reunite for “Six,” individuality gives way to collective power. Costume reveals heighten each look—more shimmer, more shine—while maintaining the shared design language that has bound them from the start. Concert lighting, synchronized choreography, and wall-of-sound harmonies transform the finale into a euphoric pop encore rather than a winner-take-all ending.

Anchoring the entire experience and elevating Toby Marlow and Lucy Moss‘ clever score and pop lingo-filled lyrics is the onstage band, The Ladies in Waiting, who are far more than musical accompaniment. Tuesday’s opening night performance was conducted by Lizzie Webb, whose steady leadership kept the score’s pop precision razor-sharp. Music Director and Keyboardist Valerie Maze drives the sound, supported by Yonit Spiegelman on bass, Rose Laguana on guitars, and Camila Mennitte Pereyra on drums. Visually, their sleek black styling mirrors the Queens’ aesthetic, reinforcing the concert vibe while keeping the spotlight exactly where it belongs.

SIX doesn’t aim for subtlety—it thrives on impact. Pop culture becomes narrative shorthand, feminism arrives wrapped in corsets, combat boots, and beats you can feel in your chest, with a message you can feel in your heart as HERstory becomes a remix. SIX proves once again that this show isn’t just clever—it’s culturally fluent. Long live the Queens!

At TPAC, though Sunday February 8 as the national tour continues, CLICK HERE to purchase tickets. Not in Nashville? No problem. You can catch these royals as their empowering processional continues its U.S. takeover with upcoming tour stops in Fort Worth, Los Angeles and a couple dozen more cities as the National Tour continues through early 2027. CLICK HERE for the full tour schedule or follow SIX on Facebook, X, YouTube, Instagram & TikTok. 

Following SIX, next up at TPAC, it’s SUFFS: The Musical with shows March 3 thru 8. CLICK HERE for more info and follow TPAC on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube & TikTok. 

As always, if you wanna follow JHPEntertainment to find out who I’m chatting with for my next Rapid Fire Q&A, or for my take on the latest local and national theatre, music and movie offerings, visit JHPENTERTAINMENT.com or find us on Facebook, Insta and Twitter.

Rapid Fire 20Q with the Storytellers of ‘Big Fish’; on stage at The Keeton February 6-22

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Few musicals capture the space between truth and imagination quite like BIG FISH, the 2014 Drama Desk–nominated musical by Andrew Lippa with a book by John August. Based on Daniel Wallace’s novel Big Fish: A Novel of Mythic Proportions and the 2003 film written by John August and directed by Tim Burton, the story explores the myths we create, the legacies we leave behind, and the love that binds families together.

Now swimming onto the stage at The Keeton beginning Friday, February 6, Big Fish blends soaring music, theatrical spectacle, and deeply human storytelling as it follows Edward Bloom — a man whose life is told through towering tales — and his son Will, who must learn how to listen beyond facts to understand the heart of his father’s stories. JHPENTERTAINMENT sat down with the artists bringing this mythic journey to life for a Rapid Fire 20Q conversation about imagination, family, and the power of storytelling.

RAPID FIRE 20Q WITH CAST AND DIRECTOR OF THE KEETON’s BIG FISH

RAPID FIRE WITH MICHAEL WALLEY, EDWARD BLOOM IN BIG FISH

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Edward Bloom is a man of myth, magic, and tall tales—what excited you most about stepping into his larger-than-life shoes?

MICHEAL WALLEY: The music of BIG FISH is absolutely gorgeous. This past fall, I was driving when Fight the Dragons came on the SiriusXM Broadway channel, and it completely stopped me in my tracks. I already knew BIG FISH was in The Keeton’s season, and I made plans to audition immediately. I’d describe myself as more of an “actor who sings” than a traditional vocalist, and Edward’s music stretches across haunting ballads, twangy pop, and everything in between. Bringing his character to life through that musical range has been both thrilling and demanding. Truthfully, I feel like I’ve been training for a marathon. My hope is that through every note, Edward’s larger-than-life heart and spirit come through loud and clear.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: A quick perusal of your theatre credits reveals your previous Keeton roles as Singin’ in the Rain’s Cosmo Brown and White Christmas’ Phil Davis share the common thread of being the comic foil to those show’s leading men—what sets Edward apart from roles you’ve played before?

MICHEAL WALLEY: At the end of our run of Singin’ in the Rain, my good friend Matthew Roberts, who played Don Lockwood, said something like, “I think you need the chance to play a leading man with some substance.” While I absolutely loved playing comic sidekicks like Phil and Cosmo (and I’d happily play either role again! Hint hint to any theatre company who needs a comic-dancer-goofball), Edward’s journey is overflowing with depth and meaning. I still get the chance to make ’em laugh, but this time I also get to take The Keeton audience on a much deeper emotional journey. Truly, I’ve never played a character anything like Edward.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Edward’s stories often say more about love than facts. What do you think Edward is really trying to pass on?

MICHEAL WALLEY: Without giving too much away, a character near the end of the show realizes that Edward’s tall tales were always meant to inspire. I grew up in a small town in Mississippi, much like Edward’s Alabama hometown, and I always had this sense that there was something bigger out there. I wasn’t satisfied unless I was chasing it, and even now, in my 30s, that feeling hasn’t gone away. Edward is the same because he’s always chasing the next big dream, and his stories become a way to invite others into that sense of possibility. Facts may fade (and we live in 2026, does anyone really care about facts?), but inspiration is what lasts.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: As a writer, puppeteer, and voiceover artist, how have your many creative hats informed your approach to this role?

MICHEAL WALLEY: This role has flexed creative muscles I didn’t even know I had. I get to play Edward at multiple stages of his life, moving from wide-eyed teenage heartthrob to cranky old man. Jumping between different voices, physicality, and energy levels is something all my creative side-quests have really prepared me for. It also helped me better understand what John August was trying to convey. Edward evolves throughout his life, but his spirit stays consistent even as his body and circumstances change.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: If Edward Bloom were telling your life story, what detail would he absolutely exaggerate?

MICHEAL WALLEY: First of all, I’m 100% positive Edward would describe me as six-foot tall, wildly muscular, rich enough to buy a tall-and-skinny in 12 South, and effortlessly hitting every high note in Andrew Lippa’s score. But for real, I like to think he’d tell the story of a small-town Mississippi boy who loved theatre, set it aside during college and early adulthood to focus on what mattered, and then realized in his late 20s that his dreams and passions really mattered too. He’d talk about Micheal jumping into the Nashville theatre scene, making meaningful art, building lasting relationships, and getting to tell stories that truly matter, like Edward Bloom’s.

RAPID FIRE WITH CLAIRE YANCEY, SANDRA BLOOM IN BIG FISH

JHPENTERTAINMENT: This marks your Keeton debut—what made Big Fish the perfect first dive into this community?

CLAIRE YANCEY: The Keeton has been such a positive space from day one. Even at auditions, I felt immediately welcomed and comfortable, and it was clear how much heart and dedication everyone brings to make this not only a great production but a great experience for everyone involved. I feel deeply connected to this cast and genuinely look forward to coming to the Keeton for every rehearsal. This community has welcomed me with open arms, and I could not have asked for a better first show at this theatre.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: With a background in classical piano and voice, how does Lippa’s score speak to you as a musician?

CLAIRE YANCEY: As a musician, learning Lippa’s score has been one of my favorite parts of this process. There is something really special about working through the more intricate and challenging moments of the music together as a cast and watching it all click. Hearing songs you have listened to countless times come to life in the room with the people around you is incredibly satisfying. I love the rich harmonies and the wide range of musical styles throughout the show, which makes the score both exciting and deeply rewarding to perform.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: What’s one moment in the show where you feel Sandra’s heart most clearly?

CLAIRE YANCEY: This may feel like an obvious answer, but it is definitely during I Don’t Need a Roof. This is the moment where Sandra is seen most clearly and vulnerably. Throughout the show, she works hard to be strong for Edward and their family, often hiding how deeply his illness is affecting her.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Sandra’s love story spans a lifetime—what do you find most beautiful about her journey?

CLAIRE YANCEY: From the very first moment they see each other, there is something magical about the way Sandra and Edward recognize something special in one another. Throughout the show, you can see that their relationship never loses its youthful spirit, even as the magic and adventure settle into the reality of growing old together. They remain deeply in love, still carrying that sense of playfulness and joy with each other.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Sandra is the emotional anchor of Edward’s wild imagination. How do you ground her while still letting the magic exist?

CLAIRE YANCEY: I think Sandra is grounded because she is fully present and deeply attentive to the people she loves. She allows Edward, with his wild imagination, and Will, who is more grounded, to be fully themselves. Sandra has a beautiful ability to meet people exactly where they are and offer them steady love and support. While she still carries that same sense of wonder and adventure that connects her to Edward, she is also able to see the world clearly and hold space for both perspectives.

RAPID FIRE WITH JACOB HINNEN, WILL BLOOM IN BIG FISH

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Will Bloom is caught between frustration and wonder—what’s been the biggest challenge in telling his story?

JACOB HINNEN: The biggest challenge has been living in the tension between frustration and hope, especially as Will wrestles with what it means to be a father himself. He’s demanding truth from Edward, but underneath that is a deep need to understand the man behind the stories before he becomes a father himself. That tension drives every interaction. Hope is always present, but it’s tested, stretched, and reshaped as Will tries to reconcile who his father is with who he needs to be.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: You’ve played romantic leads and comedic roles—how does Will stretch you differently as a performer?

JACOB HINNEN: Playing Will stretches me differently because his confidence is paired with constant questioning. Unlike roles where the character’s path is clear or emotions are outwardly expressed, Will is always wrestling with what it means to be a son and a future father. I’ve had to channel that drive, balancing certainty with curiosity, so the audience can feel both his boldness and the weight of his internal journey.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: The father–son relationship is the emotional spine of BIG FISH. What has portraying Will taught you about listening?

JACOB HINNEN: Will has taught me that listening isn’t just about extracting answers and simply responding; it’s about recognizing intention. Edward is telling the truth in his own way, and Will has to learn that fatherhood isn’t always taught through facts, but through meaning. Playing this role has reminded me that listening sometimes means setting aside your expectations long enough to hear what someone is really trying to convey.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: This performance is dedicated to your dad. How does that personal connection shape the way you step onstage each night?

JACOB HINNEN: My dad always believed in me, even when we didn’t fully understand each other. I carry his presence with me onstage, feeling the push and pull of tension, hope, and love in every moment. It’s shaped how I tell this story: a story of love conquering death, of listening to understand rather than listening to simply respond, and of never giving up hope. Every night, stepping into Will’s shoes feels like honoring him while exploring what it truly means to be a son and eventually, a father.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: If Will could rewrite one of Edward’s stories, which moment would he finally see differently?

JACOB HINNEN: Will wouldn’t change the events themselves; he’d change the way he sees them. He’d recognize that Edward’s stories weren’t just embellishments, but expressions of love, courage, adventure and guidance. They were a father’s way of teaching him how to live fully, love boldly, and carry hope even in uncertainty. 

RAPID FIRE WITH AARON GRAY, DIRECTOR OF BIG FISH

JHPENTERTAINMENT: What was the very first image or moment from BIG FISH that made you say, “I have to direct this show”?

AARON GRAY: The first time I saw BIG FISH, there were several moments that brought me to that realization, but they all came back to the father–son relationship at the heart of the show. As a father of a six year old son, that dynamic hit me in a very immediate way, especially the moment when Will realizes he’s about to become a father himself, and suddenly his relationship with his own dad begins to change. That felt incredibly honest and personal to me.
 
I was also deeply moved by the love story. The way Edward loves Sandra, with imagination, devotion, and unwavering certainty, is something I think every romantic partnership should strive for. It’s romantic, but it’s also rooted in commitment and choice.
What ultimately made me say I had to direct this show is that it truly has everything! Romance, comedy, drama, and moments of theatrical magic, but at its core, it’s just a beautifully told story about family, love, and how we come to understand one another.
 
JHPENTERTAINMENT: BIG FISH lives in the space between reality and imagination—how did you approach balancing spectacle with emotional truth onstage?
 
AARON GRAY: The magic in BIG FISH only works if it’s grounded in emotional truth. We always let the relationships lead, and allowed the spectacle to grow out of what the characters are feeling, rather than the other way around.
 
JHPENTERTAINMENT: What can you tell me about your creative discussions with Ian Mannino, this production’s musical director, in regard to bringing Andrew Lippa’s whimsical score to life?
 
AARON GRAY: John August includes a note to the director in the script that points to a video Andrew Lippa created, where he dives deeply into the score,  showing how the songs function dramatically and emotionally. Having that level of insight directly from the composer was an incredible resource, and it became a foundational tool in my conversations with Ian. 
 
From there, our discussions were really grounded in respect for Andrew Lippa’s writing. Our shared goal was to keep the music true and honest to what he wrote. The score already contains so much whimsy, warmth, and emotional clarity that we never felt the need to overcomplicate it. Instead, Ian focused on letting the music breathe and supporting the storytelling, while I concentrated on how the songs live inside the characters and the moment.
 
What emerged from that collaboration is a score that feels both playful and deeply sincere. When the music is treated with that kind of care, its beauty really speaks for itself, and it becomes a powerful emotional guide for the audience throughout the show.
 
JHPENTERTAINMENT: In your show bio you describe this as a dream project. What part of your own storytelling sensibility feels most at home in BIG FISH?
 
AARON GRAY: At its heart, BIG FISH asks two questions that feel very personal to me: “What makes a good father?” and “How do heroes live on?” As a father, I connect deeply to the first question. The show shows us that being a good father isn’t about perfection, it’s about listening, showing up, and creating a space where your children can grow into themselves. Watching Will navigate his relationship with Edward while stepping into fatherhood himself felt incredibly real to me, and it’s a story I wanted to bring to life onstage.
 
The second theme, how heroes live on, is really about memory and storytelling. Edward becomes a hero not because he’s flawless, but because of the way his stories shape Will’s understanding of him and, in turn, the person Will becomes. That idea, that our loved ones live on through the stories we carry, is central to the show, and it resonates deeply with my own sense of storytelling. I’ve always been drawn to stories that exist somewhere between reality and imagination, where emotion comes first and spectacle serves the heart of the story.
 
For me, BIG FISH perfectly blends those elements: family, love, myth, and imagination. It allows wonder and sincerity to coexist, and that balance is exactly why it feels like a dream project, it’s a story that is both fantastical and deeply human, and it’s a story I truly love. 
 
JHPENTERTAINMENT: What do you hope audiences carry with them long after they leave The Keeton and the curtain comes down on BIG FISH?
 
AARON GRAY: I hope audiences leave remembering the power of storytelling and the people they love. Big Fish reminds us that family and connection aren’t perfect, but they’re profound, and that our stories keep those we care about alive. I want them to feel the magic, the wonder, and the joy in seeing life, and love, through a lens of imagination, and to carry that feeling with them long after they leave the theatre. 

BIG FISH opens at The Keeton on Friday, February 6 and continues through Sunday, February 22. Thursday performances are show only with Doors at 6:30pm and Show at 7pm. Friday & Saturday Doors at 5:45pm/Dinner at 6pm and Show at 7pm. Sunday matinee Doors at 12:45pm/Meal at 1pm and Show at 2pm. Show Only Tickets: $30.00 (Thursday performances), Adult Dinner and Show: $40.00, Child Dinner and Show: $35.00. CLICK HERE for tickets. 

Following BIG FISH, The Keeton will present The Play That Goes Wrong with performances April 10-26. So you don’t miss out on upcoming shows at The Keeton Dinner Theatre, follow them on Facebook, X and Instagram.

Interested in coverage for your latest entertaining endeavor? Click the contact page and drop me a note. You can also follow JHP Entertainment on Instagram and Facebook. In the meantime, #GoSeeTheShow!

 

 

Rapid Fire 20Q with SIX MUSICAL’s Four Alternate Queens; National Tour at TPAC February 3 thru 8

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It’s been almost three years to the date since Music City theatre goers were first privy to experience a live audience with the Queens of SIX, the two-time Tony-winning musical that explores the stories of the women behind that morbidly fun sing-songy rhyme “Divorced, Beheaded, Died, Divorced, Beheaded, Survived”. As of Tuesday, February 3, that all changes as the Queens return to Nashville to hold court at Tennessee Performing Arts Center’s Andrew Jackson Hall with eight performances the through Sunday, February 8. 

As expected, an audience with the Queen is an almost impossible task, let alone six of them, and let’s face it—without the use of a guillotine, 20 Questions don’t exactly divide by six evenly, so rather than interviewing the leads, I had the unique opportunity to chat with four members of the royal court known as The Alternates (more about that below in my first question) as the regal company of SIX prepared for their Music City reign.

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RAPID FIRE 20Q WITH SIX’s FOUR ALTERNATE QUEENS 

RAPID FIRE WITH SIX ALTERNATE REESE CAMERON

JHPENTERTAINMENT: To start, while I’m pretty certain I know, for those who might not, What’s the basic difference between an alternate, understudy, swing and standby?

REESE CAMERON: An “alternate” is typically an on or off-stage cast member who will have weekly guaranteed performances to take over for a principal role— usually one that is very physically or vocally demanding (e.g. Tina Turner, Elphaba, Fanny Brice every Thursday is played by an “Alternate”). But in the SIX world, an Alternate means an off-stage cast member who understudies 3-4 Queens (our union caps us at 4 in the U.S., anywhere from 3-6 in the U.K. and elsewhere) The reasoning behind making us called “Alternates” instead of “Standbys” “Swings” or “Understudies” was because the team wanted us to feel just as important as our on-stage Queens. They emphasized that the reason we are off-stage is not because we are inferior or less talented, but rather that we have the capability of playing 1 or more On-stage Queens if we wanted to, therefore they wanted to give us a title with more respect. Oftentimes understudies, swings, and standbys are not given the same treatment or careful attention as onstage cast members and that’s something we’re constantly fighting for more rights about with other shows.

Understudies are on-stage cast members who play a character every night and also cover a principal role

Swings are typically off-stage members who cover several or all of the ensemble members — sometimes divided by gender and sometimes not. Swings can also be on-stage but it’s far more rare, usually because two of the swings are Dance Captain and Assistant Dance Captain and need to watch the show every week to note it and make sure the choreography upholds the integrity of the choreographer. 

Standby’s are hired to be specifically off-stage but ready at a moments notice to go on for a principal role. I like to call standby’s the principal swings haha. If a principal calls out of a show, either the standby or the understudy will go on. It depends on the show which one is chosen.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: A quick perusal of your socials in preparation of our chat revealed you debuted as three of the queens within three weeks of each other— whose boots were the hardest to step into that first time?

REESE CAMERON: The hardest was most definitely Aragon because I learned her 2nd. I had a month of rehearsals with Cleves, 2-3 weeks with Boleyn, and only 5 days with Aragon and she has the most lines in the show and fires out of a cannon with her aerobic song and dance number right after an exciting and dynamic almost 6 minute opening of Ex-Wives which is a huge challenge of stamina. 

JHPENTERTAINMENT: What has been the most gratifying aspect of tackling these roles on tour?

REESE CAMERON: I am simply so proud of myself and my Alternate family for having the mental professionalism and preparedness required to memorize 3 different principal characters for an 80 minute non-stop show. There is no time to check your notes for the next number like a swing might be able to do with a few song and dance numbers in between their next onstage moment, but for us? This 80 minute train doesn’t stop. And being prepared and CONFIDENT is such a huge accomplishment not just for 1 Queen, but for 3!!! I’ve loved playing 3 completely different characters and have unlocked parts of myself and my inner child that I have never gotten before with any other show.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Which do you admire most? Aragon’s power or Cleves’ confidence?

REESE CAMERON: Aragon’s power for sure! Cleve’s confidence is something I definitely need and aspire to have, but Aragon historically endured starvation and abuse from Henry’s father even before her marriage to Henry the VIII, and then after 24 years of marriage when Henry cheated on her, she had the strength to do what no woman at this time had ever done which was 1) speak in court 2) make her own court case and 3) represent herself in court against his misinterpretation and manipulation of Biblical word to prove the marriage was just and 4) WIN! And even after he abusively sends her away and separates her from her daughter, she remained emotionally strong, devoted to justice, a role model for the people of England, and remained the beloved Queen for many decades after her death. She endured some of the hardest trials and tribulations a person can go through and she did it with grace. I highly recommend reading more about her life. Aragon is a powerhouse of a human being and an outstanding woman.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: As a non-binary performer, what would you say to the queer kid sitting in the balcony?

REESE CAMERON: As I say in my bio “to the queer non-binary kid in the audience: you belong here”. In a hateful and divisive world, trans children need to know they have an accepting and loving family in the theatre community and especially in major cities like New York and LA. Trans actors belong in theatre, tv, and film just as much as cis actors. Theatre is a safe space for queer and trans people and there are so many roles and opportunities to be had in our industry that don’t require you to change yourself in order to fit into a show or a role. Theatre does not have to be gender dysphoric. My biggest recommendation is that trans and queer people start writing our own stories and musicals and films and TV shows and share it with the world because there are so many people who don’t know that they are queer or trans yet that watch media on Netflix and Spotify and go to see a Broadway show, and that may be the moment that they find themselves and discover who they are.  Just look at how The L Word became a Sapphic Bible, or how Heated Rivalry is opening doors for athletes to come out or even for their stories to be heard. Trans and queer media changes the world and spreads love and Empathy. We need more trans and queer media. 

RAPID FIRE WITH SIX ALTERNATE & DANCE CAPTAIN CARLINA PARKER

JHPENTERTAINMENT: You’re not only a performer in SIX, but also the tour’s Dance Captain. What does that added responsibility entail?

CARLINA PARKER:  As Dance Captain, it’s my job to be a point person for choreography team while we’re on tour. I watch the show once or twice a week  and write notes to make sure both the movements and the story behind them are being executed. I’m also available should anyone have any questions or concerns. We have an amazing choreography team based in New York that I’m in constant communication with, and the original choreographer will even pop in from London from time to time!

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Of the SIX, only one survived King Henry VIII. How would you describe Catherine Parr’s energy as portrayed in the musical in six words?

CARLINA PARKER: Honest, Kind, Intelligent, Empathetic, Inspiring, Powerful.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: SIX is resplendent with clever lyrics courtesy Book and Music collaborators Toby Marlow & Lucy Moss. What’s among your personal favorites?

CARLINA PARKER: Some of the script is written how some people text, and the audience would never know, but there’s one Parr line that’s written “R U 4 real?”and it’s SO funny. Also, “Okay ladies, lets get in reformation” -Cleves

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Touring perk you didn’t expect to love?

CARLINA PARKER: I expected to love the travel, I expected to love meeting the different fans from all over, but what surprised me is probably really silly. Since we don’t always have kitchens, I never have to feel guilty for ordering DoorDash.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Beyond the inherent closeness of a touring company, have you also developed an extra bond with your fellow alternates?

CARLINA PARKER: Yes! Arguably, the alternates are spending the most time together, between weekly rehearsals and (more often than not) sharing a dressing room with each other. The support you get from another alt is unmatched. We all know the joys and struggles of being an offstage cover in this show, covering multiple Queens, and we can be there for each other in the highs and the lows. It’s also so nice that we get along. I adopted the term “swing siblings” from another contract of mine, and it couldn’t be more true.

RAPID FIRE WITH SIX ALTERNATE ANNA HERTEL

JHPENTERTAINMENT: National Tour debut…how does that feel?

ANNA HERTEL: This tour is an absolute BLESSING! It truly feels like a pinch-me moment—this is my dream show, and getting to tell this story around the country is such a gift. I’m also so grateful for the opportunity to explore so many incredible cities along the way. 

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Is it just me? Or does Boleyn’s costume include a couple Easter eggs in its design? I mean…the neckline has what looks like a dotted line, as in ‘cut here’. Is that a reference to her demise by way of beheading or am I just overthinking it? AND…What’s your personal favorite detail in costumer Gabriella Slade ‘s Tony-winning creations?

ANNA HERTEL: There are so many Easter eggs woven into Anne Boleyn’s costume. My favorite is her iconic “B” necklace, symbolizing her pride in her family name. She wore it openly in court—something no woman had ever done at the time. After her execution, the “B” became a powerful symbol of strength, defiance, and legacy. I also love how Gabriella Slade incorporated Anne’s green sleeves into the design, a subtle nod to a love poem Henry VIII once wrote for her.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: You’re a Jimmy Awards Best Dancer honoree— how much did it mean to you to be honored for your talent in high school AND did that shape the way you approach each role in the time since?

ANNA HERTEL: The Jimmy Awards will always be one of the most meaningful moments in my career. Being able to perform on a Broadway stage alongside so many passionate, aspiring artists was truly unforgettable. The relationships I formed that week are still thriving, and I’m constantly reminded of how supportive and uplifting that community is. That experience gave me the confidence, perspective, and tools I needed to continue chasing this dream.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Researching to pose questions to you and your cast mates, I discovered you’re a bit of a newlywed, and will be celebrating your wedding anniversary in a few months. Your husband has come to see you on tour a few times, right? What’s been the most challenging aspect of touring while simultaneously starting such an exciting chapter in your personal life?

ANNA HERTEL: My husband, Brendan Coulter, is truly the biggest blessing in my life. We’ll be celebrating our 2-year wedding anniversary on March 23rd, and I’m feeling extra grateful reflecting on our journey. We met in college at Elon University studying Musical Theatre, and not long after, moved to NYC to chase our shared love for performance.

A year later, we became an acoustic duo called Honey I Duo, performing all around Manhattan — some of my favorite memories. He has been the most supportive husband throughout this tour (and has seen the show 10 times already). Long distance was hard at first, but then he joined the tour, working remotely and pouring his heart into writing his own music.

His music is truly incredible and is out now on all platforms — go listen.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: What’s one word that defines SIX for you?

ANNA HERTEL: ELECTRIC!

RAPID FIRE WITH SIX ALTERNATE ABIGAIL SPARROW

JHPENTERTAINMENT: First time I heard about SIX was from friends who saw it during its pre-Broadway trial run aboard a cruise ship.  My research in anticipation of chatting with you and your costars revealed you first performed in SIX on the high seas as Katherine Howard in Norwegian Cruise Line’s production of SIX aboard the Breakaway luxury ship — so, I gotta know — performing a Broadway musical at sea — wild or wonderful?

ABIGAIL SPARROW: You’ve done your research! It was BOTH: wild AND wonderful. Working on SIX with Norwegian was my first professional job straight out of college. I learned a LOT about being a working professional actor and there was absolutely a learning curve of living on a floating vessel for 9 months. Doing performances on a rocky boat during the stormy weather patches was certainly an experience I will not forget, haha. I met some of my closest friends to this day on that cruise ship, and am very grateful that I have been able to stay in the SIX family for years to follow.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: After seeing SIX for the first time a couple of years ago during the first national tour, I described it as American Idol meets Spice Girls meets The Tudors. Fair assessment? AND How do you describe it?

ABIGAIL SPARROW: You’re definitely hitting the nail on the head with that assessment, totally! I’d add a little bit of K-POP flair into that description too, for my two cents. It’s certainly not your average Broadway musical, that’s for sure. A 90 minute high energy pop concert with killer costumes, lighting, and choreography that everyone is sure to enjoy no matter their background or connection to Tudor history.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: In addition to your current SIX responsibilities, you’re also working an album — what can you tell me about that?

ABIGAIL SPARROW: Thank you for asking! Yes, I am currently working on my first full length album set for release in Fall 2026. Back in March of 2025 I was incredibly honored to be awarded a $30,000 dollar grant from the Posthumous Prodigy Productions Fellowship for the album. Being on the road has allowed me lots of free time to write music and work with different producers across the country. Actually, I’m meeting with a producer right here in Nashville, the Music City! Which felt very fitting. I’m very excited to share it with the world this year. I also recently released my first EP on December 5th, 2025 called Jacaranda Trees. My music style is indie pop, think Muna meets Gracie Abrams meets The 1975. My music is available on all streaming platforms! I hope you check it out. 

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Since you have a bit of history with her — Katherine Howard — misunderstood or simply iconic?

ABIGAIL SPARROW: Oh, K Howie. Certainly misunderstood, and definitely iconic. The real Katherine Howard was known as the most promiscuous Queen back in her day, which feels like an unfair assessment given she was only 13 when the King took notice of her (ew). Her story is very reminiscent of the victim blaming stories of the modern day, where we look for errors in the victim rather than condemn the perpetrators of abuse and violence towards them. Of course we will never know for certain without asking her directly, but I feel she never had ill intentions towards the people she was involved with, and was taken advantage of by much older and more powerful men. In our show, Katherine takes back her power and changes the narrative to prove her intelligence and strength in her femininity. Which I definitely would say is… simply iconic. 

JHPENTERTAINMENT: What do you hope audiences take with them after seeing the show for the first time?

ABIGAIL SPARROW: I hope that audiences leave with a new sense of empowerment to stand up to the Henry‘s in their own lives! We all have come across someone who has tried their hardest to make us small and powerless. And we all need to find that power within ourselves to rise up and fight back against those people. I hope people leave feeling inspired, and perhaps humming our songs on the way home with a little extra pep in their step. 

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Whether they’re commanding the stage or waiting to rule from just offstage, these four Alternates prove that SIX isn’t just about crowns and costumes—it’s about resilience, community, and unapologetic power. Their own stories add yet another layer to an already exhilarating night at the theatre, reminding us that every Queen has a voice, whether they’re front and center or just off-stage ready to step into a regal role. Catch SIX as it storms back into Nashville at TPAC’s Andrew Jackson Hall Tuesday through Sunday, February 3-8, and come ready to cheer, sing along, and maybe leave feeling a little more emboldened than when you arrived. After all, these Queens aren’t loosing heads, they’re dropping mics! CLICK HERE to purchase tickets. Not in Nashville? No problem. You can catch these royals as their empowering processional continues its U.S. takeover with upcoming tour stops in Fort Worth, Los Angeles and a couple dozen more cities as the National Tour continues through early 2027. CLICK HERE for the full tour schedule or follow SIX on Facebook, X, YouTube, Instagram & TikTok. 

Following SIX, next up at TPAC, it’s SUFFS: The Musical with shows March 3 thru 8. CLICK HERE for more info and follow TPAC on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube & TikTok. 

As always, if you wanna follow JHPEntertainment to find out who I’m chatting with for my next Rapid Fire Q&A, or for my take on the latest local and national theatre, music and movie offerings, visit JHPENTERTAINMENT.com or find us on Facebook, Insta and Twitter.

 

Behind the Barricade: Rapid Fire 20Q with ‘Les Misérables’ National Tour Cast Members

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Few shows in Broadway history carry the emotional weight, cultural legacy, and sheer endurance of Les Misérables. Following its 1980 Paris debut and a subsequent London premiere, Les Mis first stormed Broadway in 1987. Since then, the musical has lived many lives: record-breaking original runs, celebrated revivals, concert spectaculars, a current 40th Anniversary National Tour and an upcoming 2026 Les Mis Concert engagement at Radio City in New York, all proof that this story still hits just as hard.

Two years after Les Mis’ Broadway debut, Nashville theatre goers got their first chance to witness the spectacle when the National Tour made its TPAC debut at Jackson Hall during the spring of ‘89. Over the years, TPAC has presented subsequent tours nearly half a dozen times. As Les Misérables prepares to return to TPAC next week with eight shows over five days from January 20-25, we sat down with members of the current tour for our signature Rapid Fire 20Q. From Broadway debuts and tour firsts to deeply personal connections with Fantine, Marius, Éponine and Cosette, cast members Lindsay Heather Pearce, Peter Neureuther, Jaedynn Latter and Alexa Lopez share what it means to step into a show that has shaped musical theater history—and continues to change lives as the tour continues.

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RAPID FIRE 20Q WITH MEMBERS OF LES MISÉRABLES NATIONAL TOUR

RAPID FIRE WITH LES MIS’ FANTINE, LINDSAY HEATHER PEARCE 

JHPENTERTAINMENT: From The Glee Project to belting it out as Elphaba in your Wicked Broadway debut in 2020 to touring with Mean Girls and now Fantine in the 40th Anniversary Tour of Les Misérables, your entire career (so far) feels full of pinch me moments. With all these great roles already, do you even have a bucket list? 

LINDSAY HEATHER PEARCE: It HAS been full of pinch me moments. The fact that I have yet to wake up from this dream is a good sign that it’s all real and actually happening. I have definitely been very lucky in the last five years of my life to play so many wonderful roles, but the bucket for my list is deep and my actual list is long. A lot of the roles I want to play the most are out of my age range right now (I would need a few more years under my belt), but my biggest dream is to originate or revive a show! 

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Across Broadway, tours, and television, which role has most profoundly shaped you as an artist?

LINDSAY HEATHER PEARCE: I don’t know if I can pick just one! Each role I’ve been lucky to play has been so crucial to who I am today and was so important for who I was then. 

If I had to choose, I would say Rebecca in Recovery Road on FreeForm and Elphaba in Wicked on Broadway. 

Recovery Road was such a special experience, and to show up to set almost every day, to learn how to use those on camera skills we well as grow the skills of how to be a good team member on a set were some of the most important ones.

Elphaba was like taking a masterclass in self-care, self-understanding, bravery, humility, curiosity, and steadfastness. That’s on TOP of the lessons in leading a Broadway company, learning how to do 8 shows a week, and the excitement of joining such an incredible arena. Huge lessons, huge huge huge life changing lessons.  

JHPENTERTAINMENT: How do you emotionally prepare to sing I Dreamed a Dream night after night?

LINDSAY HEATHER PEARCE: I’ll be honest, the show does it for me. Fantine has an entire factory scene before I Dreamed A Dream that is filled with character exposition. So much happens in that ten-minute scene that by the time I get thrown into the streets, I am emotionally there and ready to sing my heart out. That’s a testament to how well Les Misérables is written and structured. Even if it’s a tired day and I don’t know if I am mentally or emotionally there, the show will get me there.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: This tour cast features a great mix of actors making their tour debuts and folks like Nick Cartell (Jean Valjean) who have history with their roles, having appeared in prior productions. It’s often said that a touring company truly becomes family. Do you feel that with Les Mis?

LINDSAY HEATHER PEARCE: Absolutely, yes. More so than any other company I have ever been a part of (and I’ve been in some of the best companies). These are GOOD people, with good hearts and open arms. When you’re on the road, away from home and family and all that is familiar, being in a company with good, gracious and FUNNY people is truly a balm.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Fantine’s story is brief but devastating — what do you hope audiences take with them after your final moment?

LINDSAY HEATHER PEARCE: We all know someone with Fantine’s story, or some aspect of it. Know that one kind act, or one good decision can change someone’s life. Without Fantine’s tragedy and sacrifice, the story doesn’t move forward.

Valjean is given the incredible opportunity to become a father to little Cosette, through whom he learns to love and look beyond himself in service of someone else. How beautiful is that? 

I hope people can take away the idea that there are opportunities around every corner to be good to someone else, to be of service, to help or save however they can. Even small stones make ripples.

RAPID FIRE WITH LES MIS’ MARIUS, PETER NEUREUTHE

JHPENTERTAINMENT: You first stepped into the role of Marius at The MUNY back in June of 2024, since first taking on the role, has anything changed or deepened in the way you portray him?

PETER NEUREUTHER: When I played Marius for the first time, rehearsals were so fast that I had to put this character together in just 10 days! Now being on the tour being over 100 shows in, I have learned so much more about Marius — the immense joy and hope he feels at the beginning of his story preparing for the revolution, and falling in love, to his deep trauma and maturity as he watches friends die on the barricade, and learning how to overcome this grief. I feel like now I really have been able to understand his story being on this tour alongside these incredibly talented storyteller castmates!

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Making your national tour debut on the barricade — after already having lived in this world at MUNY, is there a moment that still gives you full-body chills each night?

PETER NEUREUTHER: I truly do have to shoutout, and thank The MUNY for honestly, giving me my start into the business! I got such chills every night at that stage going out and performing for 11,000 people every night. We perform for massive stages everywhere in the country, but the MUNY’s venue will always hold a special place in my heart. Every night, from the MUNY to the dozens of cities we have been to, going out and singing Empty Chairs at Empty Tables always gives me full-body chills, as I know the weight this song holds, and how it is almost cathartic for Marius.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: You graduated high school in 2020 — fast forward to spring 2025 and you’re making your Broadway debut in Stephen Sondheim’s Old Friends alongside Bernadette Peters and Lea Salonga. How do you even begin to process a leap like that?

PETER NEUREUTHER: It definitely still doesn’t feel real! I honestly sometimes just try to take a minute when I’m feeling overwhelmed and stressed about auditions or the show, even just life, and remind my self how proud high school me would be to see me up on these stages, sharing the stage with legends, and talent I could’ve only ever dreamed of. I am truly so lucky to have had the opportunities that I have had, but it has come with lots of hard work in college, in and out of the classroom. I am so grateful for the experiences I’ve had thus far, and I know my hard work and work ethic will keep serving me. I’m never satisfied (in the best way!).

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Having performed Les Misérables in The MUNY’s massive outdoor amphitheater — how does that experience compare to setting up shop in a new indoor venue with each stop on the national tour?

PETER NEUREUTHER: The MUNY’s massive stage is truly like performing at a football stadium! I definitely feel like I had to emote more on that stage so even the people all the way in the back rows who looked like they were on the moon could understand the story! These indoor venues are a whole different beast. Setting up shop in a new theater almost every week and seeing how our show fits in every venue so perfectly is awesome! I love getting to perform for a new crowd and new theatre every week!

JHPENTERTAINMENT: If Marius could send one modern-day text message, who’s it to — Cosette or the revolution group chat? AND What might it say?

PETER NEUREUTHER: Well lucky for me, Alexa Lopez our Cosette in the show is also my partner outside of Les Mis. So, if it was Peter sending a message it would be “What’re we getting to eat after the show? I’m starving.” But as Marius to Cosette it would be “Dearest Cosette, I’ll come find you I promise. It doesn’t matter if you’re here or across the sea. My love for you makes any distance crossable. I love you endlessly”.

RAPID FIRE WITH LES MIS’ ÉPONINE, JAEDYNN LATTER

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Fresh out of Baldwin Wallace Conservatory of Music and straight into Les Misérables 40th Anniversary Tour. Not a bad way to jumpstart your professional career, huh? — when did it finally feel real?

JAEDYNN LATTER: When I put on the iconic red hat for the first time. That’s when I thought, “Oh, wow, I’m actually doing this for real.” It was like the physical embodiment of a legacy, and especially when I was first wearing it, I could feel the weight it had.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Éponine’s journey is heartbreak, bravery, and resilience all at once — which lyric is the hardest to sing eight times a week?

JAEDYNN LATTER: “A world that’s full of happiness that I have never known.” Yes, it is vocally challenging, but I think one of the most tragic parts of Éponine is that she’s not really mad at Marius or Cosette because they fell in love. She’s grieving that she was born into her circumstances and thinks more than anything, “If things were different.” Seeing Cosette, (and in turn, Marius), reap the benefits of a life that she could have lived hurts most of all. Seeing their privilege and their ability to fall in love in such an innocent, ideal way, knowing that she will never experience that is so incredibly painful. I think coming to that realization every night is the most excruciating thing to enact eight times a week.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: You’ve played roles from Waitress’ Jenna to Into The Woods’ Little Red — how did those experiences prepare you for Éponine?

JAEDYNN LATTER: Waitress was the first show that I ever played the leading role in, and I barely left the stage. I think that experience taught me to trust my body’s own stamina, and to sort of be okay with not being able to second guess myself once we got going. Into the Woods had an eight-show week, so it definitely showed me what that schedule feels like. But actually, I think Little Red really prepared me for Éponine in the sense that they’re both younger than I am. In both cases, I had to mentally travel back to adolescence and think, “How does a teenager view love, or grief, or power, etc.?” It taught me to really listen to what I was actually hearing rather than acting based off of my own gained maturity and pre-conceived notions of her journey.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Pre-show routine: quiet focus, vocal warm-ups, or hyping yourself up backstage?

JAEDYNN LATTER: It’s definitely more of a mid-show routine for me—mostly consisting of Jolly Ranchers and reminding myself to breathe. In a voice lesson, a coach had told me to remember I have toes (as a way to say, “be aware of your body as a whole”). So a lot of the time before On My Own, I’m telling myself, “You have toes.”

JHPENTERTAINMENT: If Les Mis were to go the route of some other musicals who use pop tunes to tell the story, what might Éponine’s pop counterpart to On My Own be?

JAEDYNN LATTER: I literally have an Éponine playlist that’s nearly six hours long. Some of my favorite fits for her are Waiting Room by Phoebe Bridgers and David by Lorde. If we’re talking old-school, I think the most literal counterpart would be All By Myself by Celine Dion.

RAPID FIRE WITH LES MIS’ COSETTE, ALEXA LOPEZ

JHPENTERTAINMENT: National tour debut and Cosette — what was the very first thought that hit you when you got the call welcoming you to the tour?

ALEXA LOPEZ: My heart literally burst out of my chest! I actually got the call as I was about to clock into my hostessing job at the time. It was one of those pinch me moments every performer in NYC dreams of having. I simply just couldn’t wait to be on stage sharing this story with thousands of people, bringing life to it and trying to do it justice every night. I could barely even concentrate that night as I was working – my mind was reeling with so many thoughts of the future, tour, excitement, gratitude, and the list goes on. 

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Cosette is often described as gentle — what strength do you love most about her that audiences sometimes overlook?

ALEXA LOPEZ: Cosette is definitely a gentle force of light and goodness in our show. However, and moreover, she is strong, determined, and has depth to her. She fights to learn the truth about her life, she fights to be there for the people that she loves in their hardest times. She could sit back and live the life that Valjean has built for her, no questions asked. But instead, she pushes to learn the truth and have her father know that she has grown into a woman–a woman with agency, a woman with desires, and a woman who deserves and can handle the truth. So, definitely her strength and determination. 

JHPENTERTAINMENT: What is it about Cosette that challenges you most as a performer?

ALEXA LOPEZ: The track itself can be challenging at times from a technical standpoint. I have to be careful about when I warm up so that my voice can be ready for certain moments in the show after not being on-stage for a good amount of time. Cosette’s big vocal moments come fast and furious, so being dropped in and prepared when the time comes has been a learning curve for me. 

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Quick pick: sweeping romantic ballads or emotionally charged duets?

ALEXA LOPEZ: Emotionally charged duets!

JHPENTERTAINMENT: When audiences see this tour, what do you hope stays with them after the curtain call?

ALEXA LOPEZ: This is a story that is timeless and that everyone, to some degree, can resonate with. I hope audiences feel a sense of hope as they walk out of the theater. Our show is about unconditional love, the strength of the human spirit, and the fact that redemption and light are possible, even through the darkest and most impossible times. 

⸻

Celebrating 40 years since Les Misérables first arrived on Broadway, the revolution returns once more. This 40th Anniversary Tour honors every chapter of the show’s extraordinary life while proving its message remains as urgent as ever. Les Misérables plays TPAC’s Jackson Hall January 20–25, 2026. Tickets are on sale now at TPAC.org, starting at $72.55. Whether it’s your first barricade or your fiftieth, this is a dream worth dreaming—again.

As always, if you wanna follow JHPEntertainment to find out who I’m chatting with for my next Rapid Fire Q&A, or for my take on the latest local and national theatre, music and movie offerings, visit JHPENTERTAINMENT.com or find us on  Facebook, Insta and Twitter.

 

Theatre Review: Nashville Rep’s It’s A Wonderful Life’ Delivers A Heartfelt triumph for the Holiday Season

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Nashville Repertory Theatre rings in the season with a warmly nostalgic, creatively staged production of It’s A Wonderful Life, directed by Alicia Lark Fuss and running now through December 22 at TPAC’s Polk Theater. With a stellar cast led by Brian Charles Rooney as George Bailey, Tamiko Robinson Steele as Mary Hatch Bailey, Jennifer Whitcomb-Oliva as Clarence and Matthew Carlton doing double duty as both Joseph, the supervising angel and as Potter, the beloved Frank Capra holiday classic, adapted for the stage by playwright Catherine Bush, is reimagined with theatrical magic.

This production leans into nostalgia while embracing a distinctly theatrical vocabulary with inventive movement, actors portraying multiple roles throughout and a visually stunning pop-up vintage Christmas card aesthetic —resulting in a version of Bedford Falls that feels both timeless and newly alive, all adding fresh dimension to a story generations know by heart.

Before a single line is spoken, the audience is transported by Gary C. Hoff’s breathtaking set design: a larger-than-life, die-cut, layered pop-up tableau rendered like a mid-century Christmas card cut from heavy white cardstock. It’s whimsical without being precious—an intricate snowy sculpture of Bedford Falls, with tiny cut-out doorways and windows glowing from within. Peer closely and you’ll catch vintage cyanotype portrait photos, representing the “everyday people” of the town, those whose quiet lives shape George Bailey’s world in ways he often forgets to see. It’s the perfect conceptual anchor for a story about taking note of what truly matters.

Playwright Bush seems to have taken inspiration from such classic theatre pieces as Our Town, in employing the above-mentioned practice of having actors portray multiple roles. Another of this production’s most enchanting elements is its use of movement. Thanks to movement coordinator Megan Castleberry, the ensemble shifts with a near-balletic grace—actors gracefully glide set pieces to and fro, and when called for, they physically personify snow gusts, swirling wind and fateful cracks across an icy pond. They mime-like movements echo emotional beats, and embody natural forces, adding a magical, abstract layer to the storytelling. It’s a bold directorial choice that works beautifully, enhancing the narrative without ever distracting from it. Especially effective in the more dramatic scenes, offering them up in an almost dreamlike vision.

At the center is Brian Charles Rooney, who’s made quite a name for himself, not only on the local level, but for his work in New York on Broadway, is well-known for his vocal prowess as a musical theatre powerhouse. Rooney captures the full breadth of George’s life journey—from mischievous boy to wide-eyed dreamer to the exhausted, cornered adult wondering where everything went wrong. Remarkably, he accomplishes this not through drastic physical transformation but through subtle, sharply observed choices: a shift in vocal pitch, a slight change in posture, the weight of responsibility settling into the shoulders. These gradations make his downward spiral heartbreaking and his redemption cathartic. As George Bailey, it’s his sincere believability as the multi-faceted depth he brings to the stage that holds the audience’s attention from that first appearance of a man defeated to the much-loved ringing of that angelic bell signifying all is well with the world. His performance as George Bailey is nothing short of revelatory. And YES…though this production is not a musical, the audiences is indeed treated to just a bit of Rooney’s pitch-perfect multi-octave voice for a quick little verse of Buffalo Gals, the beloved tune featured in the 1946 film classic.

As Mary Hatch Bailey, Tamiko Robinson Steele radiates warmth, quiet confidence, and fierce devotion. Her Mary is not simply the supportive spouse—she’s the emotional compass of the story, grounding George even when he’s flailing hardest. Steele’s effortless sincerity elevates every scene she touches. From their scenes depicting George and Mary’s childhood friendship to their teenage flirtation, Steele’s sweet embodiment of Mary is palpable. The scene at the drugstore soda fountain when Mary leans over to George and whispers in his bad ear her devotion, I couldn’t help but have a little eye sweat. With Steele in the role, it’s no wonder George offers Mary the moon.

A standout among the ensemble, Matthew Carlton impressively toggles between two primary characters, the compassionate, celestial Joseph and the acerbic, conniving Mr. Potter. The contrasts are stark yet fully realized. Particularly striking is a small but brilliant acting detail: Carlton’s decision to have the wheelchair-bound Potter occasionally rub his leg, as if easing a persistent ache. As someone with mobility and neuromuscular pain myself, that gesture resonated deeply—an understated physical cue that hints at the discomfort and bitterness fueling Potter’s worldview. Carlton’s scenes with apprentice angel, Clarence are equally as lovely.

To that end, Jennifer Whitcomb-Oliva, who I readily admit is one of my longtime theatre crushes, shines brilliantly as the eager-to-earn-his-wings Clarence. Ever-hopeful and constantly assuming its his time to get to work helping George as Carlton’s Joseph guides him through George’s journey thus far, Witcomb-Oliva is simply joyous to behold. Also tasked with also presenting the bumbling but big-hearted Uncle Billy, Witcomb-Oliva os equally at ease. Where physical choices and minute nuances in characterization are concerned, Witcomb-Oliva is astutely adept. From Clarence’s nervous excitement to not only help George, but to also earn is wings–to Uncle Billy’s blissful befuddlement, Witcomb-Oliva delivers performances indeed worthy the presentation of angel wings.

Among the remaining company members, Matthew Benenson Cruz offers charm and humor as Harry Bailey, Burt the Cop, and more. Garris Wimmer deftly give the ole “Hee-haw!” to his Sam Wainwright, offers a bit kindness with his Mr. Gower and is the perfect companion to Cruz’s Burt as Ernie the cabbie. (Side Note: As I do every time I have the chance to review It’s A Wonderful Life, YES, I will point out the fact that Jim Henson and Company got the names for two of Sesame Street’s best pals from the characters of Bert and Ernie in the Capra classic), but I digress. Back to the ensemble, as expected, Eve Petty gives a spirited turn as Violet Bick, injecting just the right note of vulnerability beneath the flirtation. She’s also ridiculously fun in her role as one of the Bailey children.

Among  the remaining ensemble are Eric D. Pasto Crosby, who is first seen in a brief appearance as Mr. Bailey and a little more stage time as Nick the barkeep (question…did they really have Sports Bars called as such in the 1940s? It’s rhetorical. Sports Bars weren’t a thing until the 1960s, thus my only complaint about the set, for when Clarences shows George what life would have been like had he not been born, they visit the bar formerly owned by Martini, now emblazoned with a mirror-etched sign reading Nick’s Sports Bar). Aleia Eagleton and Darci Nalepa Elam appear throughout portraying various townspeople. Among their standout turns, Elam’s Ma Bailey is motherly perfection while her Tilley is flirty and fun. Then there’s the small in stature, but big in energetic presence of Eagleton as she is fabulously convincing and utterly enjoyable in the tiny, but pivotal role of Zuzu.

Each member of the company, whether featured on ensemble beautifully adding texture, warmth, and an essential presence throughout, rounding out the world of Bedford Falls with the perfect blend of authenticity, heart and the occasional wink to cleverness of the minimal approach to the piece.

Behind the scenes, the talent runs as deep. Melisa K. Durmon’s costumes, hair, and makeup perfectly capture the era while allowing each actor to glide seamlessly between roles and meet those quick change cues in time for their next character’s appearance. Dalton Hamilton’s lighting design bathes the stage in comforting holiday hues one moment and stark emotional shadows the next, guiding the audience through George’s shifting state of mind, but never over-dramatizing it. Kevin O’Donnell’s sound design subtly enhances the production’s magical realism—gentle chimes, rustling winds, and atmospheric underscoring that support without overwhelming.

Nashville Rep’s It’s A Wonderful Life is more than a nostalgic retelling; it’s a reminder—tender, inventive, and beautifully crafted—of the impact one life can have on an entire community. With its inventive staging, standout performances, and thoughtful direction, this production radiates the very heart of the holidays. Whether you’re revisiting Bedford Falls or discovering it for the first time, this beautifully crafted production is a heartfelt story of community, compassion, gratitude, connection, and the timeless belief that no one is a failure who has friends and the reminder of the difference one life can make.

The Rep‘s It’s A Wonderful Life continues its run through December 21, with performances at 7:30pm Thursday, December 18 and Fridays and Saturdays, and 2pm matinees Saturdays and Sundays. Truly a heartfelt, artfully realized gift to Nashville theatergoers, so grab your tickets, your Bevin Silver Bell, and maybe a tissue or two and get ready to head to TPAC‘s Polk Theatre to celebrate this Wonderful piece of American holiday history. CLICK HERE to purchase tickets.

Before you go, in case you missed it, CLICK HERE to check out my recent Rapid Fire 20Q with the director and cast members of the show.

Following It’s A Wonderful Life, Nashville Rep’s season continues in the new year with FAT HAM, James Ijames‘ Pulitzer Prize-winning reinvention of Hamlet, a co-production alongside Nashville Shakespeare Festival, onstage February 13-22, followed by the audience favorite SISTER ACT April 10-19. Closing out the season will be Amy Tofte‘s BLOOD SUCKING LEECH, as part of Nashville Rep‘s New Works: Next Stage, after having presented a staged reading of Tofte’s work just last season. CLICK HERE to purchase Season Tickets.

As always, check out Nashville Rep online and follow them on Facebook, X, YouTube and Instagram.

If you wanna follow JHPEntertainment to find out who I’m chatting with for my next Rapid Fire Q&A, or for my take on the latest local and national theatre, music and movie offerings, find us at JHPEntertainment on Facebook JHPEntertainment on Instagram  and JHPEntertainment on Twitter. Got an event or show we should know about, drop us a line at the Contact tab. Till then, #GoSeeTheShow!

Theatre Review: The Keeton’s ‘She Loves Me’; a Love Letter for the Holiday Season

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Romance, wit, and a dash of musical magic have drifted into Donelson as She Loves Me opened at The Keeton Dinner Theatre this past Thursday evening with the show continuing with Thursday thru Sunday shows until December 21. With its intimate space, casual dinner-theatre setting, and a cast obviously invested in the show’s nearly century-long legacy, The Keeton proves an ideal home for this sweet classic midcentury musical.

Based on Miklós László’s 1937 play Parfumerie—the source material for later films, The Shop Around the Corner, In the Good Old Summertime, and, spiritually, You’ve Got Mail—She Loves Me remains one of musical theatre’s most charming “quiet classics.” Its central “enemies-to-lovers through anonymous letters” premise still sparkles, especially when placed in the hands of performers who understand just how human, funny, and tender these characters truly are.

While Jimmy Stewart’s Alfred from 1940’s The Shop Around the Corner presented the male counterpart of the story as a bit of a prickly nay-sayer, the musical adaptation’s male lead Georg Now, played in The Keeton’s She Loves Me by Jayden Murphy,  who was last seen on The Keeton stage as Coalhouse in Ragtime, once again brings a youthful warm and layered and hopeful presence beneath the character’s famously cantankerous exterior. When we chatted with Murphy for our recent Rapid Fire 20Q, he admitted to being a bit of a “hopeless romantic” much like Georg. On stage Murphy channels that vulnerability to sweet success in the bittersweet Tonight at Eight and especially in the show’s title tune, She Loves Me. His smoothly rich voice—flexible, grounded, and carefully guided under Music Director Roger Hutson—honors the show’s more classical, operetta-leaning score while still feeling contemporary and honest. Murphy’s understanding of the show’s history is in full view throughout: this is a Georg who feels fully lived-in, not mimicked from past productions.

As Amalia Balash, Jiana Kevilus is radiant—sharp-tongued in the workplace to comedic delight when pitted again Georg one moment and achingly vulnerable when speaking (or singing) of her unidentified letter-writing love the next. Her interpretation honors Amalia’s insecurities, especially those revealed in Will He Like Me?, while infusing her with modern emotional clarity. As anticipated, Kevilus’ Vanilla Ice Cream—approached as a pivotal moment where Amalia subconsciously begins to realize Georg’s true identity—bubbles with joy, confusion, and discovery. It is one of the highlights of the evening: vocally agile and acted with specificity. In an admirable way, Kevilus’ performance of the song put me in mind of Olivia Newton-John’s Hopelessly Devoted Grease moment.

The chemistry between Murphy and Kevilus is strong and believable. Their banter often borders on playful chaos.That ease pays off—this Amalia and Georg disagree ferociously, but they always feel tethered by something deeper, and the much-anticipated revelation of their true identities and mutual feelings all the more sweet because of it.

Kimberly Wolff, who seems to have become a full-fledge member of the Keeton company of frequently seen actors, is a standout as Ilona Ritter. Wolff gives the role the perfect blend of glamour, vulnerability, no-nonsense practicality and emotional intelligence. Her work in the number I Resolve is especially effective—Ilona’s attempt at independence is tinged with hope, frustration, and surprising strength.

Her scenes with Tommy Anglim’s Kodaly are super-charged with electrically playful tension. Anglim’s Kodaly is smooth, sly, and charming in all the most infuriating ways. During their shared musical numbers—particularly Ilona, Anglim’s Kodaly delivers a somewhat bawdy, yet perfectly comedically timed riotous performance. Anglim’s delightfully narcissistic Kodaly and Wolff’s tough-but-tender Ilona feel like they walked straight out of a Golden Age film.

Director Morgan Robertson, making her directorial debut, does so with charm and an obvious admiration for the musical, having music directed a previous production across town. There are a few instances when blocking seems a bit awkward and clunky (sorry, but why are we seeing the backs of actors in scenes throughout?). The overall look and feel of the show is a success and the actors each seem to have been directed to make the characters their own in the most enjoyable way possible.

Once again, The Keeton’s in-house scenic designer, Kevin Driver delivers a triumph and his She Loves Me set should be one of the most-talked-about elements of the production. Inspired by the 2016 Tony-winning Broadway revival’s transformative shop design, Driver creates an only slightly scaled-down Maraczek’s Parfumerie that feels timeless, elegant, and tactile. The mobile units shift the space effortlessly, inviting the audience directly into the warmth of the 1930s Budapest shop.

Denese René Evans’ costumes reinforce that old-world charm—smart, flattering silhouettes and texture-rich fabrics that reflect class, profession, and personality without ever feeling like caricature. Loved the small detail of all the shop employees wearing an “M” initial lapel pin. If a couple suggestions could be offered…invest in a steamer to relieve a bit of static cling on those silk pjs and suspenders should take care of a few of the male performers’ pant legs dragging the floor.

Sound designer Steve Love and lighting designer Brooke Sanders work together to create seamless transitions between bustling shop scenes, intimate revelations, and the cozy glow of the story’s romantic scenes. Especially of note, following a particularly jarring event, flooding the interior of the shop with crimson light might have been my favorite lighting effect.

The supporting roles are filled with memorable performances. Brian Best, last seen as William Frawley in The Keeton’s Lucy Loves Desi, lends Mr. Maraczek gravitas and returns Best to the typical bravado roles for which he’s come to be known. His solo of Act 1’s Days Gone By and its Act 2 reprise are unexpectedly hauntingly touching. Sipos, a role often played as gentle and understated, in the hands of Victor Davis, creates a charmer with soulful presence and hilarious comedic timing. Making his Keeton debut, Samuel Boggs brings youthful earnestness to Arpad, his Try Me full of plucky determination. Boggs’ performances should be remembered as he’s definitely poised to be one to watch with a sure-fire future in Nashville’s theatre community. 

As for the rest of the cast, Brenda Brannon (always a personal favorite) is snooty perfection as the sever in the upscale restaurant where our two fated lovers attempt their first face-to-face, Rich Moses, and the ensemble—Chloe Beehm, Hazen Lawson, Kathleen McClanahan, and Amanda Noss—bring humor, color, and a bit of extra fun to each moment they touch. Again, particularly enjoyable is the restaurant scene, from the physical comedy to flirtation abounding.

All in all, She Loves Me is “cozy theatre.” It looks to present heart, honesty, and fun rather than spectacle—and The Keeton delivers all three. Robertson’s production is grounded in affection for the material, executed by a cast that understands the charm and underlying fragility of the story they’re telling. The result is a She Loves Me that feels warm, human, and full of light—exactly the kind of theatre Nashville audiences crave during the holiday season.

Ready to take a trip to Maraczek’s shop around the corner and check out the goods yourself? Dear Friend, you’re in for a treat as She Loves Me continues its run at The Keeton (108 Donelson Pike, Nashville, TN 37214) thru December 21 with evening diner and show performances Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays and additional matinees Saturdays and Sundays. Tickets range from $35–$47. CLICK HERE to purchase before the run sells out, and visit thekeeton.org for more information.

In case you missed it, CLICK HERE to read my recent Rapid Fire 20Q with the director and four principal actors. So you don’t miss out on upcoming shows at The Keeton Dinner Theatre, follow them on Facebook, X and Instagram.

Interested in coverage for your latest entertaining endeavor? Click the contact page and drop me a note. You can also follow JHP Entertainment on Instagram and Facebook. In the meantime, #GoSeeTheShow!