From the Front Row: Broadway in the ‘Burbs with Phoenix Productions

Since 1988, the nonprofit Phoenix Productions has been dedicated to its mission of providing quality theatrical experiences for both audiences and performers alike. With performances presented in the Hackensack Meridian Health Theatre at the Count Basie Center for the Arts in Red Bank, NJ, Phoenix Productions specializes in reviving popular Broadway hits in the best way possible, with full sets, elaborate costumes, talented casts, meticulous crews, sophisticated sound, quality lighting, and a full, live orchestra. They take pride in saying, “It’s as close as you can get to the Broadway experience right here in central New Jersey, at a fraction of the cost and inconvenience.” Since its debut 30 years ago, the organization has staged more than 100 productions to entertain more than a half million theater patrons, plus provided outstanding opportunities to thousands of local performers, musicians, arts, and craftspeople – most of whom have volunteered for the simple joy of doing what they do to share their talents.

As a nonprofit, their ongoing efforts to keep ticket prices affordable and expenses low also means that funds are needed to maintain their standards of producing quality theater. Businesses, organizations, foundations, and individuals are invited to donate and help support their artistic endeavors, and membership benefits are available for donors at every price level. Of course, the most entertaining way to show your support for Phoenix Productions – and reward yourself with a wonderful outing in the process – is to come out and enjoy one of their upcoming shows. Gather some friends, bring the family, and mark the calendar for the 2019 season of Broadway in the ‘Burbs! Single show ticket prices start at just $26; discounts are available for seniors and subscription packages are offered for three, four, or five shows. For information and tickets for any of the following, go to www.PhoenixRedBank.com or call 732-747-0014.

Young Frankenstein – May 3 through May 12

In this monster new musical hit, comedy genius Mel Brooks adapts his legendarily funny film, Young Frankenstein, into a brilliant stage creation. Grandson of the infamous Victor Frankenstein, Frederick Frankenstein inherits his family’s estate in Transylvania. With the help of a hunchbacked sidekick, Igor, and a leggy lab assistant, Inga, Frederick finds himself in the mad scientist shoes of his ancestors. “It’s alive!” he exclaims as he brings to life a creature to rival his grandfather’s. Eventually, of course, the monster escapes and hilarity continuously abounds. Young Frankenstein has all the panache of the screen sensation, with a little extra theatrical flair added. With such memorable tunes as “The Transylvania Mania,” “He Vas My Boyfriend,” and “Puttin’ on the Ritz,” Young Frankenstein is monstrously good entertainment.

Newsies – June 21 through June 30

Set in turn-of-the century New York City, Newsies is the rousing tale of Jack Kelly, a charismatic newsboy and leader of a band of teenaged “newsies.” When publishing titans raise distribution prices at the newsboys’ expense, Jack rallies newsies from across the city to strike against the unfair conditions and fight for what’s right. Based on the 1992 motion picture and inspired by a true story, Newsies features a Tony Award-winning score by Alan Menken and Jack Feldman and a book by Tony Award winner Harvey Fierstein. Featuring the now classic songs “Carrying the Banner,” “Seize the Day,” and “Santa Fe,” Newsies is packed with nonstop thrills and a timeless message, perfect for the whole family and every audience.

Nice Work If You Can Get It – September 13 through September 22

A new take on a classic 1920s musical farce, Nice Work If You Can Get It is the tale of Jimmy Winter, a wealthy and carefree playboy living the good life in the midst of Prohibition. He has an unfortunate habit of marrying chorus girls, until he’s forced to marry a woman of substance – Eileen Evergreen, the finest interpreter of modern dance in the world. On the weekend of their nuptials, Jimmy meets Billie Bendix, a tough-as-nails bootlegger who has inadvertently stashed 400 cases of gin in his basement. Knocked out by this one-of-a-kind woman, Jimmy must deal with his high-strung fiancée and an assortment of bootleggers, prohibitionists, G-Men, and chorus girls, as well as one very moralistic senator….all to the tunes of George and Ira Gershwin.

Mamma Mia! – November 15 through November 24

This sunny and funny tale of Mamma Mia! unfolds on a Greek island paradise where, on the eve of her wedding, a daughter’s quest to discover the identity of her father brings three men from her mother’s past back to the island they last visited 20 years ago. The story-telling magic of ABBA’s timeless songs propels this enchanting tale of love, laughter, and friendship, creating an unforgettable show. A large cast, nonstop laughs, and explosive dance numbers combine to make Mamma Mia! a guaranteed smash hit for any theatre. Come see a mother, a daughter, three possible dads, and a trip down the aisle you’ll never forget!