Locals were at a loss when the North Shore Music Theatre shut down for financial reasons in 2009. Fortunately, the closure was only temporary; businessman Bill Hanney soon bought the famed Beverly arts venue and will reopen it in July.
"The goal for my first season at NSMT is to create a season that respects and celebrates the type of musical entertainment that NSMT is known for," Hanney said. "The 2010 season will include an exciting mix of classic musicals, as well as newer Broadway titles."
Here's what's on tap this summer:
"Gypsy" (July 6-25): "A classic musical fable about the quintessential stage mother, Momma Rose, who pushes her two children into show business at any cost to fulfill the dream of stardom she never achieved herself. It is a story of ambition, suppressed dreams and sacrifice. The score is jam-packed with iconic songs like 'Let Me Entertain You,' 'Everything's Coming up Roses' and 'Rose's Turn.'" Lyrics by Stephen Sondheim.
"Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat" (Aug. 3-22): "Entertaining family musical retelling of the biblical story of Joseph, his devoted father, his jealous brothers and his incredible series of adventures. Filled with spectacular costumes and high-energy dance numbers, the story is told through a variety of musical styles — everything from country to calypso to rock 'n' roll." Lyrics by Tim Rice, music by Andrew Lloyd Webber.
And looking ahead to the fall:
"Dirty Rotten Scoundrels" (Sept. 21-Oct. 10): "This musical, based on the 1988 hit movie starring Steve Martin and Michael Caine, follows two very different con artists working their schemes on the French Riviera. Their hijinks result in a friendly competition to see which one can swindle an innocent heiress out of her fortune."
"A Chorus Line" (Nov. 2-21): "Share in the story of 17 dancers competing for a few coveted spots in the chorus of a Broadway musical. Through the audition they bare their souls while sharing stories of their childhood, ambitions, fears and experiences in show business. This ground-breaking Pulitzer Prize-winning musical is for anyone who has ever put it all on the line, whether it is for promotion, attention, approval or love."
Additionally, the theater will bring back its popular production of "A Christmas Carol" (Dec. 3-23). Other special events and concerts are expected to be added through the summer. Check www.nsmt.com for updates.
IF YOU GO
What: North Shore Music Theatre's 2010 season
Where: 62 Dunham Road, Beverly
When: July 6 through Dec. 23
Tickets: www.nsmt.org or 978-232-7200
