Best Upcoming Theater Productions In Pittsburgh
In our near-apocalyptic holiday frenzy, we tend to forget to slow down, take time for ourselves and enjoy unwinding with family and friends. Theater is a terrific way to do just that, and let the mind wander toward more artistic expression. Taking in one (or all) of the shows below may bring a deeper appreciation of the arts, or simply allow a seasoned theatergoer to decompress during this oft-strenuous season.
'Pippin'
Benedum Center
237 7th Street
Pittsburgh, PA 15222
(412) 456-6666
www.trustarts.org
Dates: Jan 20 - Jan 25, 2015
Told by a mysterious troupe of performers, a young and dreamy prince, "Pippin," is dissatisfied with his life. Overlooked by his absent father King Charles and mercilessly ridiculed by his family, Pippin embarks on a journey to discover the meaning of life, and takes on a series of illuminating challenges. Pippin becomes embroiled in war, switches loyalty to the revolutionaries and leaves a trail of broken hearts in his wake. But perhaps, what Pippin comes to learn is that excitement and freedom isn't always the answer to living, and that modesty is the key to a long and fruitful life.
'The Phantom of the Opera'
Benedum Center
237 7th Street
Pittsburgh, PA 15222
(412) 456-6666
www.trustarts.org
Dates: Feb 18 - Mar 1, 2015
No need to wait for the film to broadcast on TV this year - run, don't walk, to the Benedum to experience for yourself the exquisite live masterpiece of "The Phantom of the Opera." Based on Gaston Leroux's timeless love story, "The Phantom of the Opera" encompasses the story of the disfigured musical genius Phantom Erik, and his muse, Christine Daae, the beautiful starlet of the Paris Opera. Their musical affair unfolds below the opera's glittering floors, deep in the catacombs of the opera house, where Erik finds salvation in Christine's breathtaking voice. The incredible score will dazzle audiences, and features the timeless songs "Home," "My True Love," "You Are My Own" and "Masquerade."
'Motown'
Heinz Hall
600 Penn Ave,
Pittsburgh, PA 15222
(412) 456-6666
www.trustarts.culturaldistrict.org
Dates: Dec. 30, 2014 - Jan. 4, 2015
Based on true events, "Motown the Musical" is the genuine American dream story of Motown founder Berry Gordy's journey from featherweight boxer to the globally renown music mogul who launched the careers of Michael Jackson, Diana Ross and Smokey Robinson, among others. Motown's music shattered racial barriers, shaped our culture and made us all - black and white, rich and poor - move to the same beat. Featuring such classic songs as "My Girl" and "Ain't No Mountain High Enough," this musical experience is the perfect gift for any Motown or doo-wop music-lover, and is a family-friendly event.
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'Kinky Boots'
Benedum Center
237 7th Street
Pittsburgh, PA 15222
(412) 456-6666
www.trustarts.org
Dates: Aug 4, 2015 - Aug. 9, 2015
Bringing home a staggering six Tony Awards, this inspirational story follows an economically repressed shoe factory owner who takes great strides to turn his business around with help from exotic entertainer Lola. Together, the unlikely duo finds that they have more in common than they ever dreamed. Loosely based on actual events, "Kinky Boots" will take your breath away with dazzling choreography and a tremendous score than no other than Grammy award-winning Cindi Lauper. Consistently sold out on Broadway, you'll quickly discover why "Kinky Boots" is one of the winningest musicals running today.
Abba the Concert Tribute
Byham Theater
101 6th St,
Pittsburgh, PA 15222
(412) 456-6666
www.trustarts.org
Dates: Feb. 12, 2015
Yearning for the days when "Dancing Queen" ruled the airwaves? Yearn no further as The Visitors hit the Byham in their dazzling tribute to ABBA. The group, together since 1996, has performed in more than 20 countries and has dazzled in more than 1,000 shows. During each performance, the show has always consisted of two original members of ABBA's rhythm section. This lovingly scripted tribute continues to be the top ABBA tribute group in the world; you can expect your favorite hits like "Mamma Mia," "S.O.S," "Waterloo," "Gimme, Gimme, Gimme" and, of course, "Dancing Queen." Tickets start at $30.
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Nikki Tiani-Moroney is a full time mum of two boys, wife of a professional poker player/photographer/amateur pencil-sharpening competitor and writer from Pittsburgh, PA. When she isn't studiously neglecting her housework in favor of a good book, she's out simultaneously fighting crime and picking up sidewalk litter while savoring an occasional cigarette. Her work can be found at Examiner.com.
