Philadelphia has long been recognized as one of the nation’s most acclaimed destinations for live arts and entertainment. Led by the world-famous Philadelphia Orchestra and Philly Pops, and boasting one of the most diverse and expansive theater districts outside of New York City, each new season of concerts, plays, musicals and festivals draws theatergoers from all parts of the U.S. In the coming months, a variety of superb shows and performances will take the stage at venues throughout the city. From dance and drama to singers and symphonies, Philadelphia’s upcoming arts performances have something for everyone. Here’s a list of exciting events that will have the city buzzing all season.
One of the most popular performance events in Philadelphia is the Broadway Series. National touring companies of Tony Award-winning musicals and plays take to the stage at the Academy of Music, 240 S. Broad St., and the Forrest Theater, 1114 Walnut St., for limited engagements that typically sell out well in advance. Over the coming months, the Broadway Series calendar has an exceptional lineup: — “The Lion King”: Through April 24 at the Academy of Music (www.kimmelcenter.org) — “August: Osage County”: April 27-May 2 at the Forrest Theater (www.forrest-theater.com) — “Avenue Q”: June 18-20 at the Academy of Music Music (www.kimmelcenter.org) — “Dreamgirls”: June 22-27 at the Academy of Music Music (www.kimmelcenter.org)
Just a few steps south of the Academy of Music is the Merriam Theater, 250 S. Broad St. — one of Philadelphia’s most historic and authentic performance spaces. Beginning on May 14, the Merriam will play host to the tour of Michael Flatley’s “Lord of the Dance.” This celebration of traditional Irish dance is infused with a variety of progressive artistic elements, making it one of the most unique dance performances of the last several decades. This show has played to sold-out crowds around the globe, garnering rave reviews for years. “Lord of the Dance” will only be in Philadelphia for a brief engagement, May 14-16, and tickets are certain to sell quickly. Visit www.merriam-theater.com to check for availability.
Though not located in the “Arts District” on Broad Street, the Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts, 3680 Walnut St., on the University of Pennsylvania’s campus, is home to intimate venues that always offer diverse and quality programming. This spring, the Annenberg Center’s Zellerbach Theater welcomes the following productions (visit www.annenbergcenter.org for tickets). — “Rasta Thomas’ Bad Boys of Dance”: April 15-17. This is an all-male dance performance combining hip-hop, capoeira, jazz and contemporary ballet. Tickets run $28-$48. — “Romeo and Juliet”: April 20-24. A joint performance of arguably the world’s most-recognized play is produced, directed and performed by Tony Award-winning troupes, The Acting Company and Guthrie Theater. Tickets are $20-$55. — Children’s Festival: April 27-May 1. This is a family-friendly series of productions and performances guaranteed to entertain kids and adults alike.
As you build your arts calendar, don’t forget about Philadelphia’s premier outdoor concert venue, the Mann Center for the Performing Arts, 5201 Parkside Ave., in Fairmount Park. It’s currently gearing up for the 2010 season, which will kick off in June. Visit www.manncenter.org for information on this year’s performance schedule.
In addition to the mainstream events listed above, there are a number of LGBT-centric events coming up, including “Take Me Out” at Plays and Players, through March 27 (www.playsandplayers.org), and lesbian comic Suzanne Westenhoefer’s performance at 9 p.m. March 27 at the Trump Taj Mahal Casino Resort, 1000 Boardwalk (ticketmaster.com).
And don’t forget that cast members of Logo’s “Big Gay Sketch Show” will be performing their hysterical brand of improvisational comedy during the Mr. Gay Philadelphia Competition at Voyeur Nightclub, 1221 St. James St., on April 17. To view the contestants and to purchase VIP tickets in advance, visit www.nightlifegay.com/tickets.
I encourage all of my readers to send event suggestions and feedback to [email protected]. ’Til next time, get offline and see what your community has to offer!