Broadway couple helps celebrate Human Race Theatre anniversary

Splendid soprano Marin Mazzie and dynamic tenor Jason Danieley, Broadway powerhouses and husband and wife, will celebrate the Human Race Theatre Company’s 30th anniversary in the concert/musical revue “Broadway and Beyond” Friday, Feb. 24 at the Loft Theatre.

Accompanied by pianist/composer Joseph Thalken (Human Race’s “Was” and “Harold and Maude”), three-time Tony Award nominee Mazzie (“Passion,” “Ragtime,” “Kiss Me, Kate”) and Drama Desk nominee and Theatre World Award winner Danieley (“Candide”) are slated to perform selections from the Great American Songbook and the Great White Way.

They will specifically perform songs they introduced on Broadway in roles they originated. In other words, it’s safe to assume Mazzie will particularly deliver “Back to Before,” her stirring signature tune from “Ragtime.” In addition to the aforementioned musicals, audiences will also be treated to selections from “The Full Monty,” “Curtains” and “The Visit,” among others.

In addition to performing numerous symphonic performances around the world, their newest cabaret offering, “He Said/She Said,” premiered at New York’s famed Cafe Carlyle and toured the country and the high seas around South America in the fall of 2012. They also had great success with their previous cabaret concert “Opposite You,” which played the Kennedy Center and Feinstein’s at the Loews Regency.

They have also given master classes in musical theatre at various universities and colleges including Boston Conservatory, University of Miami and Western Michigan University. In fact, they will provide a master class at Wright State University during their visit. WSU’s Musical Theatre Initiative, under the direction of Human Race resident artist Joe Deer, serves as the concert’s Residency Partner.

Several of their concert appearances have been featured on television such as PBS “Great Performances” and “Live at Lincoln Center.” Most notable are “My Favorite Broadway: The Leading Ladies,” “My Favorite Broadway: The Love Songs,” “South Pacific,” and “Sondheim! The Birthday Concert.” Also, their first album, titled “Opposite You,” was heralded as “CD of the Year” by National Public Radio. They are currently preparing their next recording.

“‘Broadway and Beyond’ is musical perfection,” stated Times Square Chronicles. “The couple’s dramatic and comedic acting ability, irresistible personalities and good looks, enthralled the audience who couldn’t’ wait to give them a standing ovation. Marin and Jason are a gift that keeps on giving and may they always.”


WANT TO GO?

What: "Broadway and Beyond with Marin Mazzie and Jason Danieley"

Where: Loft Theatre of the Metropolitan Arts Center, 126 N. Main St., Dayton

When: 8 p.m. Friday, Feb. 24

Cost: Premium center section: $110 (includes pre and post-show reception and a $25 tax deductible gift); Section A: $85 (includes post-show reception and a $25 tax deductible gift); Section B: $50 (concert only)

More info: Call (937) 228-3630 or visit www.humanracetheatre.org

HUMAN RACE GETS A SHOUT-OUT

The Human Race Theatre Company was featured in the Tuesday, Feb. 14, edition of the New York Times in an article spotlighting three national productions that are about the 2012 mass shooting in Newtown, Conn., in which a man opened fire at Sandy Hook Elementary School, killing 26 children and adults before taking his own life.

The New York Times interview Eric Ulloa about his “26 Pebbles,” which is now showing at the Loft Theatre.”

Ulloa’s play is based on more than 60 interviews he did with Newtown residents.

“We use a very theatrical conceit,” he told the Times. “When the moment happens, it’s an actual giant shattering of glass. I promised every person I interviewed that I would never try to make this a piece of sensationalism. I don’t want to see that. We’re Dealing with children, and that’s some touchy ground. That’s not the story I’m trying to tell.”

WANT TO GO?

What: "26 Pebbles," a world premiere presented by the Human Race Theatre Company

When: Final show is today, Feb. 19. at 2 p.m.

Where: The Loft Theatre, 126 N. Main St., Dayton.

Tickets: Single ticket prices start at $40 for adults, $37 for seniors and $20 for students. Call (937) 228-3630 or online: www.humanracetheatre.org

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