Center Stage Theatre 2023 Season

 See Fun Classic like  “Xanadu,” “A Grand Night for Singing,” Rumors,” and More

 

 Center Stage Theatre, an inclusive and intergenerational community-based theatre providing high quality and affordable performances, educational programming and volunteer opportunities, today announced its 2023 season.  

 

Premiering with “Xanadu” on February 17, 2023, the season will include four musicals, including the 40^th anniversary Youth CONNection production, a Neil Simon comedy, a bonus musical and more.

 

“2023 is going to be an exciting year at Center Stage Theatre; we’ve put together a great line-up of productions that will offer something for everyone,” said Carla Sullivan, Managing Director, Center Stage Theatre.  “In addition to both beloved and newer musical titles, a play by one of the most famous playwrights of all time and a celebration of 40 years of Youth CONNection productions, we also have big plans for our educational offerings in 2023 for adults, teens and kids who are new-to or more experienced in theatre.  We’re already counting down to kicking this all of in 2023, with some additional surprise announcements to come!”

 

The 2023 subscription series includes:

• “Xanadu” – February 17 – 26, 2023

This Tony Award-nominated, hilarious, roller skating, musical adventure about following your dreams despite the limitation’s others set for you, rolls along to the original hit score composed by pop-rock legends, Jeff Lynne and John Farrar. Based on the Universal Pictures cult classic movie of the same title, which starred Olivia Newton-John and Gene Kelly, “Xanadu” is hilarity on wheels for adults, children and anyone who has ever wanted to feel inspired.

“Xanadu” follows the journey of a magical and beautiful Greek muse, Kira, who descends from the heavens of Mount Olympus to Venice Beach, California in 1980 on a quest to inspire a struggling artist, Sonny, to achieve the greatest artistic creation of all time – the first ROLLER DISCO! (Hey, it's 1980!) But, when Kira falls into forbidden love with the mortal Sonny, her jealous sisters take advantage of the situation, and chaos abounds.

• “A Grand Night for Singing” – April 21 – April 30, 2023

 

Taste and imagination, the two key ingredients for a first-rate revue, abound in this fresh take on the Rodgers & Hammerstein canon, conceived by Tony Award winner Walter Bobbie. Over three decades after the duo's final collaboration, “The Sound of Music,” took Broadway by storm, this new R&H musical opened the 1994 Broadway season with flair and distinction, garnering wildly enthusiastic notices and earning two Tony nominations, including Best Musical.

Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein may never have imagined "Shall We Dance?" as a comic pas de deux for a towering beauty and her diminutive admirer, nor might they have suspected that one day a lovelorn young lad might pose the musical question, "How do you solve a problem like Maria?" But that's precisely the kind of invention lavished upon this new revue, with innovative musical arrangements, including a sultry Andrews Sisters-esque "I'm Gonna Wash That Man Right Outa My Hair," a swingin' "Honeybun" worthy of the Modernaires, and a jazzy "Kansas City," proving how terrifically up to date the remarkable songs of R&H remain.

 

• “Catch Me If You Can” – July 21 – 30, 2023 (The 40^th Anniversary Youth CONNection production)

Based on the hit film and the incredible true story, “Catch Me If You Can” is the high-flying musical comedy about chasing your dreams and not getting caught. Nominated for four Tony awards, including Best Musical, this delightfully entertaining show was created by a Tony Award-winning "dream team," with a book by Terrence McNally (“The Full Monty,” “Ragtime”) and a swinging score by Marc Shaiman and Scott Wittman (“Hairspray”).

Seeking fame and fortune, precocious teenager, Frank Abignale, Jr., runs away from home to begin an unforgettable adventure. With nothing more than his boyish charm, a big imagination and millions of dollars in forged checks, Frank successfully poses as a pilot, a doctor and a lawyer – living the high life and winning the girl of his dreams. When Frank's lies catch the attention of FBI agent, Carl Hanratty, though, Carl pursues Frank across the country to make him pay for his crimes.

• “Rumors” – October 13 – 22, 2023

Written by Neil Simon, the show opens as the Deputy Mayor of New York has just shot himself. Though it's only a flesh wound, Ken Gorman's self-inflicted injury sets off a series of events causing four couples to experience a severe attack of Farce.

As their tenth wedding anniversary party commences, Ken lies bleeding in another room, and his wife Chris is nowhere in sight. Chris and their lawyer, Ken, scramble to get “the story” straight before the other guests arrive. As the confusions and miscommunications mount, the evening spins off into classic farcical hilarity.

• “All Shook Up” – December 1 – 10, 2023

It’s 1955, and into a square little town in a square little state rides a guitar-playing young man who changes everything and everyone he meets. Loosely based on Shakespeare’s “Twelfth Night,” this hip-swiveling, lip-curling musical fantasy inspired by and featuring the songs of Elvis Presley will have you jumpin’ out of your blue suede shoes with such classics as “Heartbreak Hotel,” “Hound Dog,” “Jailhouse Rock,” and “Don’t Be Cruel.”

Center Stage Theatre will also present a bonus musical:

• “The 25^th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee” – June 15 – 25, 2023

Winner of the Tony and the Drama Desk Awards for Best Book, “The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee” has charmed audiences across the country with its effortless wit and humor. Featuring a fast-paced, wildly funny and touching book by Rachel Sheinkin and a truly fresh and vibrant score by William Finn, this bee is one unforgettable experience.

An eclectic group of six mid-pubescents vie for the spelling championship of a lifetime. While candidly disclosing hilarious and touching stories from their home lives, the tweens spell their way through a series of (potentially made-up) words, hoping never to hear the soul-crushing, pout-inducing, life un-affirming "ding" of the bell that signals a spelling mistake. Six spellers enter; one speller leaves a champion! At least the losers get a juice box.

2023 Highlights from the Education Center include:

• “Xanadu Jr.” – March 3 – 12, 2023

This 60-minute, full scale musical production with lights, sound, costume and a complete set with cabaret style seating at tables and chairs features performers ages 7-14.

• Spring Classes – TBD
• Summer Camp – June 26 – August 4, 2023
• Fall Performances – November 2 – 12, 2023

 

Subscriptions for the 2023 season can be purchased online for $145 per person, which includes 5 shows for the price of 4.  Tickets to “The 25^th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee” can be added to subscription packages for $25 per person.  Student subscriptions are available for $75 per person.  Single tickets will go on sale one month before opening night of each show ($36 adults, $18 students) with group rates available.

 

For more information, visit www.centerstageshelton.org.

 CENTER STAGE THEATRE, INC. 

54 Grove Street, Shelton, CT 06484

About Center Stage Theatre

Center Stage Theatre is an inclusive and intergenerational community-based theatre providing high quality and affordable performances, educational programming and volunteer opportunities.  Located in Shelton, Connecticut, the theatre produces five full scale productions a year including its annual Youth CONNection summer musical, as well as year-round theatre education for student’s grades K-12.  Founded in 2005 by Gary and Francesca Scarpa, Center Stage is a 501(c)3 non-profit theatre attracting actors and audiences from throughout Fairfield and New Haven counties.  For more information, visit centerstageshelton.org, or the theatre’s Facebook (@centerstageshelton) or Instagram (@centerstageshelton) channels.

Brian Lewis' The Cottage in Greenwich - Coming March 22

Save the DAte!
 March 22
Brian Lewis' THE COTTAGE 
ON GREENWICH AVENUE SET TO OPEN

 

Mark your calendars to join celebrated Chef Brian Lewis at his newest location in Greenwich -  The Cottage, on March 22nd!

The Cottage in Greenwich will feature Chef Lewis' signature style of American cooking, celebrating seasonal ingredients. Chef Lewis' second location is at 49 Greenwich Avenue in Greenwich, Connecticut.

 

“I am ecstatic to be just a few short weeks away from opening the fourth restaurant location for our company, Full House Hospitality Group, on the bustling and vibrant Greenwich Avenue,” said Lewis, who recently received his second nomination as a semi-finalist for the James Beard Awards’ Best Chef: Northeast.  “We are so grateful for the continued support of the community as we’ve worked hard to have this opening happen as quickly as possible.  I can’t thank my entire team enough at all of our locations for their support and hard work to help us reach March 22!” 

Chef Brian Lewis

Photo Courtesy The Cottage

The seasonal menu at The Cottage Greenwich will incorporate ingredients from local purveyors and farms in the Connecticut and New York area.  It will feature several classic dishes from The Cottage Westport, including Wagyu Beef Brisket Steam Buns, Duck Fried Rice and The Cottage Burger, but will also feature new small plates for sharing, house made pasta, signature items such as Miso Black Cod Crepe, Foie Gras & Duck Sausage and Santa Barbara Uni Toast, vegetable-centric dishes and gluten free options.  

Wagu Brisket Steam Buns

Photo Courtesy The Cottage

The dessert menu will also celebrate the seasons, with the addition of a new sundae menu offering creative and unique after dinner choices.

 

The beverage program will also celebrate the flavors of the season.  The wine list will feature an array of choices from classic regions by the glass and bottle.  Classically inspired, technique-driven cocktails, including several with no- or low- alcohol options, will incorporate classics from The Cottage Westport, but also offer unique recipes developed for the Greenwich location.  A seasonal Martini menu will extend rotating drinks for guests, and Japanese flavors, techniques and ingredients will be incorporated into some options on the menu in homage to the group’s OKO brand.  Several beers will also be available on draft and by the bottle/can, with a particular emphasis placed on sourcing local beers from the New England and Connecticut area.

The Brooklyn Cocktail

Photo Courtesy The Cottage

 

“Executive Chef Christian Wilki and Director of Hospitality Ralph Leon, who are now part of their third opening with our group, will help oversee the launch and opening in Greenwich,” added Lewis.  “Our group of dedicated and creative talent continues to grow with the addition of Gianfranco Olivier as Sous Chef, and James Lucchesi as Bar Manager.  It is truly my team that is the heartbeat of the restaurants, putting not only their expertise but also heart into every dish and drink that is served to a guest.” 

 

Architect Rick Hoag from Frederick William Hoag Architect and Interior Designer Megan Zwick from MZ Interiors again collaborated with Lewis and his team on a modern interpretation of the original intimate location in Westport. The more expansive space on Greenwich Avenue allowed for an "exterior" within the interior. The kitchen space was imagined as a separate structure within the structure and is wrapped with irregular board and batten "exterior" paneling in a soothing and dramatic smoky blue hue.  The dining areas are clad in the same familiar shiplap as the first location with white oak columns and beams and divided into three distinct dining areas lined with cozy channel-tufted velvet banquettes in an inviting and complementary soft teal color.  

Photo Courtesy The Cottage

The front dining room features a cocoon-like round banquette and views of Greenwich Avenue, while the center dining area has more curved banquettes and a welcoming bar with thick Carrara marble countertops and warm oak and mirror shelves. Lacquered bistro chairs, rustic tables with wrought iron bases and sleek brass chandeliers complete the warm dining environment.  The Cottage’s signature Chef’s Counter offers four seats at the second marble top bar counter inviting birds eye views directly into the open kitchen area.  Paintings, black and white photography and live greenery and floral arrangements providing accents to the space.

 

Photo Courtesy The Cottage

The Cottage will be open Tuesday-Saturday for dinner service, expanding to offer lunch, Sunday brunch and Sunday Dinner, as well as full menu offerings for takeout, later this Spring. On- and off-site private event options will also be available.

 

The restaurant will begin accepting reservations beginning Tuesday, March 15 for its opening date and beyond via OpenTable.com, or by contacting the restaurant at 203-769-1220.

 

About Chef Brian Lewis:

Brian Lewis is one of the most celebrated chefs in the Northeast, lauded for his commitment to quality and seasonally driven American cuisine featured at his restaurant, The Cottage, as well as his love for Japanese cuisine at his other restaurant concept the popular, OKO, with locations in both Westport CT. and Rye, New York, both under his flagship Full House Hospitality Group brand.  The Cottage, with locations in Westport and Greenwich, Connecticut, was recognized with an “Excellent” review in the New York Times, after only being open for four months, commending Lewis’ sophisticated menu in a cozy setting.  With Forbes proclaiming that OKO’s Westport location is “competitive with the best in Manhattan,” the restaurant opened a second location in 2019 in Rye, New York.  This location was named to MICHELIN Guide’s list of New Plate Establishments in New York in 2021.

 

Lewis was also honored in 2018 and again in 2022 as a semi-finalist for the James Beard Awards’ Best Chef: Northeast.

 

He first received national recognition as the Founding Executive Chef of actor Richard Gere’s The Bedford Post Inn, a Relais & Chateaux property that featured two destination restaurants, The Barn and The Farmhouse. There, he acquired national acclaim including Esquire Magazine’s “Best New Restaurant” list in 2009, and an “Excellent” review in the New York Times for his thoughtful and consciously sourced cuisine. He launched his first solo venture in March 2012 with elm, where he was once again named to Esquire Magazine’s “Best New Restaurant” list, this time in 2012, before leaving to focus on launching The Cottage in Connecticut’s Westport neighborhood.  Lewis has had the honor of being invited to cook five dinners at the historic James Beard House in New York City, most recently in January 2017 on behalf of The Cottage.  He has made appearances on The Martha Stewart Show, TODAY Show, Fox & Friends and was a Winner on Beat Bobby Flay.

 

Raised in Westchester, New York, Lewis discovered his love for cooking at a very early age. He graduated from the Culinary Institute of America with honors and went on to earn his bachelor’s degree in business Management from Johnson and Wales University. Early experiences working under the guidance of legendary chefs like Jean Louis Palladin and Marco Pierre White strongly shaped Lewis’ culinary style to what it is today.

 

About The Cottage

The Cottage is the vision of chef Brian Lewis and represents his commitment to produce Connecticut’s premier neighborhood destination for the finest locally sourced cuisine. With locations in the heart of Westport and Greenwich, Connecticut, The Cottage elevates the standard for seasonal American cooking delivered with casual simplicity and coastal charm. Lewis’ award-winning dishes are hand crafted with exceptional ingredients procured from local purveyors and farmers responsible for growing, raising, harvesting, and producing within the region. Menus change weekly to reflect the season’s best bounty.  For more information, visit www.thecottage.kitchen.