The weekend of Sunday, March 30 marks the final few shows for the Waukesha Civic Theater’s performances of “Next to Normal”. The musical, intended for mature and adult audiences, deals with serious themes surrounded by a loving, compassionate narrative. The music in the show has its roots in rock and roll, and packs punches with its robust musical weight. In all, the story of the show centers around a family whose struggle leads them to new depths of love and understanding. “Next to Normal” has been a total shakeup for the local theater’s repertoire, one that’s demonstrated just how much local talent can be put on display for the benefit of the community.
Although the show is closing this weekend, avid theater fans will have a chance to trade in the rock and roll for something much more country in April. Running for one special weekend from Friday April 11 through Sunday April 13, “The Phantom of the Opry” will make its debut at the Waukesha Civic Theater. The show is being hosted by the ACAP PlayMakers, the house performance troupe that is well experienced in song, dance, and acting abilities. “The Phantom of the Opry” trades in the Phantom of the Opera’s traditional atmosphere and setting for the backdrop of the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville, Tennessee. According to the show’s description:
The Phantom trains an unknown singer into a national superstar but must deal with the many larger-than-life egos along the way. In the end, his protege must choose between fame or love.
Later in April, the theater will have a cabaret series, “Outskirts Theater Co.’s Stayin’ Alive: A Night of Disco”. The musical review touches on all the greatest hits of disco, bringing them to life with all of the vibrancy and showmanship of the era. This show will run April 17-19 and April 24-25 nightly.
“Next to Normal” debuted on March 14, and the community rallied around the show’s success. Hopefully, “The Phantom of the Opry” and “Stayin’ Alive” will garner the same level of excitement. These three shows utilize very different styles of music, demonstrating how diverse the capabilities of many of these local performers are. They are also great opportunities for various types of music lovers to come together and experience the joy of live performances. Break a leg!
