Pittsburgh Musical Theater
327 S Main Street Pittsburgh, PA
15220
Attention: Development Director
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Creating a good musical is a lot like baking a pie. There are some crucial ingredients — a strong cast, plenty of great numbers, a little bit of humor (and maybe a hint of spice) and a lot of heart. Then, it all gets mixed together and put out under the hot stage lights. That’s where the magic happens.
Pittsburgh Musical Theater’s Waitress is a delicious slice of fun. The show is directed by Tim Seib, with music direction by Dr. Francesca Tortorello, and will run through May 25 at the Gargaro Theater on Pittsburgh’s West End.
The show is based on the 2007 film of the same name, and it’s one of the most faithful screen-to-stage adaptations I can think of. The score is pretty poppy, which makes sense since the music and lyrics were written by pop star Sara Bareilles. Waitress debuted on Broadway in 2015 and was nominated for four Tony Awards, including Best Musical. Frankly, the show can’t be blamed for not winning any; it had the misfortune of premiering the same season as the awards juggernaut that was Hamilton.
The titular waitress in Waitress is Jenna (Zanny Laird), a woman gifted with an almost supernatural ability to invent and bake pies and saddled with an abusive husband, Earl (Corey Rieger). She works at a pie diner with her close friends Dawn (Catherine Baird) and Becky (La’Nette Wallace), dodging grumpy shouts from her boss, Cal (Ben Sheedy) and serving the curmudgeonly diner owner, Joe (Danny Herman). When Jenna realizes she’s pregnant, she’s anything but happy.
Then she meets her new gynecologist, Dr. Pomatter (Brett Goodnack) and things change — the pair find an unsuppressable spark in one another. Jenna decides that she’s going to enter a pie baking contest with a five-figure cash prize that would allow her to get out of her marriage and her town to start over.
The book of the musical, which was written by Jessie Nelson, is its weak point. Part of the problem is that the music is so introspective and emotionally weighted that the more shallow dialogue doesn’t seem to keep up. Especially with a cast so capable of rising to the acting occasion, it would’ve been nice to see a little more character development for them to work with.
While there are several settings in the show, the lives of the characters mostly revolve around the warmly lit and cozily familiar diner. Scenic desiger Tucker Topel and lighting designer Todd Nonn were able to set the mood for the show’s rising and falling action while making each scene feels lived in. Watching the cast filling ketchup and mustard bottles and wipe down tables while discussing the challenges of their lives is so relatable that they start to feel like your own friends.
Jenna, Dawn and Becky each have their own worries: Jenna, with an unwanted pregnancy and a horrible husband; Dawn, who’s never had a boyfriend and forces herself out of her shell (don’t worry, she gets an adorably happy ending); and Becky, who’s caretaker to a very sick husband who she loves. Baird and Wallace both shine in their solo songs. While they get some of the best comedy lines, they both also bring three dimensions to their characters and have the audience rooting for them.
If one modern showtune standard has emerged from Waitress, it’s the second act heartbreaker “She Used To Be Mine.” Laird did a commendable job of baring Jenna’s soul throughout the show, but she really opened up and brought the audience in for that particular song, to great effect.
Goodnack’s Dr. Pomatter is neurotic and jumpy, getting big crowd reactions for his physical comedy. But he’s also got a sweetness and vulnerability that makes the character believably charming. He and Laird share a chemistry that’s both heated and companionable, and you really do root for them, despite the transgressiveness of their dalliance.
I want to give a little extra praise to Jeyni Ortiz-Valentin who played Norma, Dr. Pomatter’s nurse. She stole almost every scene she was in with a dry wit that got the audience cackling.
Bareilles’s score is a highlight, and Tortorello’s music direction brought a lot of texture and depth to every song. From the boppy “Never Ever Getting Rid of Me” (sung by the endearing Quinn Patrick Shannon as Dawn’s eventual beau Ogie) to the soft and sweet “You Matter To Me,” a few verses of calm amongst the storm for Jenna and Dr. Pomatter, each tune opens up new layers in the show. And choreographer Larry Lozier-Woods added the extra oomph of movement that felt especially impactful at the show’s joyous conclusion.
This is a musical that feels especailly appropos to see with female family and friends. Make sure to bring tissues to the theater and make sure you get some pie — trust me, the show will have delicious baked goods on your mind.
Pittsburgh Musical Theater’s Waitress will run through May 25 at the Gargaro Theater on Pittsburgh’s West End. Tickets are available online at pittsburghmusicals.com/waitresstickets or by calling (412) 456-6666. For accessibility questions and accommodations, patrons should contact PMT Accessibility Coordinator at (412) 539-0900 x232.
Waitress is making its regional debut here in the Steel City and we had a few members of the cast on the show today to find out how much prep and practice went into preparing for their roles.
Photo credit: Matt Polk
Decked out in a baby blue dress covered by a spotless white apron, Jenna (Zanny Laird) looks as sweet as some of the pies she's renowned for making. Yet, under this comely veneer, this waitress in a café-style pie shop is struggling with her own set of demons.
She's stuck in a job that's taking her nowhere, is married to a lout of a husband, Earl (Corey Rieger) and works double duty as both waitress and pie maker under the thumb of a demanding, irritable boss named Cal (Ben Sheedy).
Just when she thinks there's no light at the end of the tunnel, another calamity hits. She discovers she's with child.
Her only source of comfort and support comes from co-workers Becky (La'Nette Wallace) and Dawn (Catherine Baird), who guide her through her pregnancy test in “The Negative.” Her fellow waitresses also commiserate with her marital situation in which Earl used her hard-earned tips to go drinking with his buddies and even threatens her with physical abuse.
Despite his eccentric ways and ridiculous demands (he wants his tomato on a separate plate and his coffee served after his meal) the pie shop owner, Joe (Danny Herman) is softer than he appears and eventually proves a big boon to Jenna's future happiness.
Based on the 2007 film, Waitress was adapted for the stage by Jessie Nelson with music and lyrics by Sara Bareilles and went on to win four Tony nominations, including Best Musical. With twenty largely pop songs in the score, the standout now most associated with the musical is the melancholic “She Used to Be Mine.”
Amazingly, Pittsburgh Musical Theater has assembled a blockbuster cast with many of the principals given their moment to musically shine. Laird, of course, carries most of the show on her shoulders, either in solo, duet or ensemble pieces. Wallace's dazzling “I Didn't Plan It” spotlights her powerful voice. The actress also has a bounty of comedic talent that speckles the show with sassy sweetness.
Easy to dislike for his callous, even brutal relationship with Jenna, Rieger aced the role of Earl but also displayed an outstanding singing voice in “You Will Still Be Mine.”
As the ditzy, love-lacking waitress, Dawn (Baird) opens up with a sparkling rendition of “When He Sees Me” and shows a more formidable side to her rather self-effacing character.
Another character who comes to life vocally is Jenna's rather overly emotionally cautious and reticent gynecologist, Dr. Pomatter (Brett Goodnack), who proves he can croon with the best of them in “It Only Takes a Taste” and “Bad Idea.”
For my taste, Quinn Patrick Shannon as Ogie is the actor who pulled off the most entertaining segment in Act One with his shenanigans in and around his rendition of “Never Getting Rid of Me.” Watch for it; it's a gem.
Credit music director Dr. Francesca Tortorello with keeping the show's musical sextet in perfect sync with the cast of warblers and giving the show's tunes an understated but rich sounding accompaniment.
Director Tim Seib, along with choreographer, Larry Lozier-Woods, pulls off some nifty visuals such as the way he represents the multiple armed, Hindu god several times in back of Jenna and handles the simulated sex scene with Jenna and her doctor. Scenic designer, Tucker Topel creates a believable diner in which most of the action takes place, but also, with the help of some adept and largely inconspicuous stage hands, conjures up scenes in the doctor's office or Jenna and Earl's home with the movement on and off stage of a few scenic elements.
In this mix of this mostly sugary comedy with touches of tartness and a soupcon of bitterness, book writer, Jessie Nelson introduces a way out of her perplexing conundrum for Jenna. She's intrigued by the idea of entering a pie baking contest and winning the $20,000 prize, enough to open her own pie shop and a new chapter of her life.
Without giving away the outcome, let's say the narrative ingredients converge to produce an umami finale that involves a look at Jenna's life five years down the road with her daughter, Lulu (Meira Molinero) now in the picture.
At intermission, purchase a piece of pie at the refreshment stand at the back of the theater. The peach blueberry is delicious, but I wouldn't pass up a slice of apple or cherry either. They're simply icing on the cake.
Photo credit: Matt Polk
Jenna (Zanny Laird) knows that her whole life is about to change when she learns that she's pregnant in the blockbuster Broadway play, Waitress. Jenna doesn't love her husband, Earl (Corey Rieger), with good reason. The man is cruel, selfish and lazy. However, Jenna can't figure out how to leave him.
Jenna's personality is perfectly encapsulated in song, “She is messy, but she's kind. She is lonely most of the time,” but she's also an amazing pie maker. Fellow waitresses, Becky (La'Nette Wallace), and Dawn (Catherine Baird) are slinging hash and flinging barbs in Joe's Diner alongside her. They are also her moral (and sometimes immoral) support system.
Jenna's the overwhelmed one. Becky is the sassy one. Dawn is the ditzy one. It's the 70s sitcom “Alice” with a Sara Bareilles soundtrack.
Her life changes when she meets Dr. Jim Pomatter (Brett Goodnack, everyone's favorite chainsaw wielding Ash), her gynecologist.
Meanwhile Becky is knocking boots with the manager, Cal (Ben Sheedy), the Mel to Jenna's Alice. Dawn gets a meet-cute with the goofy but lovable, Ogie (a hilarious Quinn Patrick Shannon, turning in a brilliant performance in a smaller role).
The diner owner, Joe (Danny Herman), is a tough curmudgeon, but he's got a soft spot for Jenna, as long as she remembers to put his tomatoes on the side.
When putting the show together, Director Tim Seib picked the perfect ingredients, blending top notch actors, a superb band, with amazing music created a smash hit.
Laird has proven time and time again that she is a star on the Pittsburgh stage and would be welcome on any Broadway stage. Her rendition of “She Used To Be Mine” is a showstopper. There are not enough hyperboles to describe it.
Goodnack also has star quality. He has grown into a charismatic and dynamic leading man.
Side note: This critic recognized Goodnack's burgeoning talent in a musical theater improv group, the Wunderstudies, nearly fifteen years ago where he told a certain Patch reporter to “Try the funnel cakes!” at a fair in Oakdale, PA.
Wallace's Becky is a blast. She absolutely slays with “I Didn't Plan It,” a powerful number that opens up the second act.
Waitress is filled with extras. Diners need patrons and musicals need backup dancers and harmonizers. It's a gifted class of background performers. Nurse Norma (Jeyni Ortiz-Valentin) dishes out some of the best lines of the show, spitting them out, under her breath, with candor and aplomb. Isabel Kruse has a silent role as Jenna's deceased mom, but it is a poignant performance.
Tucker Topel's scenic design emulates the Broadway stage version of the set with soft pinks and blues fit for Lulu's nursery. It is perfectly complemented by Todd Nonn's impeccable lighting design.
Excellent costumes by Jeremy Eiben, which includes, waitress costumes, street clothes, and some Revolutionary War cosplay.
One small side note: There are renovation plans in the works for PMT stages and that's a good thing, because if you get stuck behind a tall or broad-shouldered person, you're only seeing part of the performance.
The show runs a little long, especially when setting up all of the characters and their various storylines, but it gives all of the principle cast members their own moment to shine.
If you're ready for a uplifting story of hope and redemption, Waitress is ready to serve you. It's a must-see show.
Daisy introduced us to the cast of the Pittsburgh regional premiere of "Waitress: The Musical". We found out why this show was the "toast of Broadway" for years.
PITTSBURGH - Pittsburgh Musical Theater (PMT) will present the Pittsburgh regional premiere of the smash-hit Broadway musical Waitress, running May 1 - 25 at the Gargaro Theater in Pittsburgh’s historic West End.
With music by Grammy-winner Sara Bareilles and based on Adrienne Shelly’s beloved film, Waitress follows Jenna — a small-town waitress and expert pie maker — as she searches for a fresh start. An unexpected pregnancy, a baking contest, and a charming new doctor stir up big changes, but with the help of her friends, Jenna finds the courage to rewrite her recipe for happiness. The score includes the memorable and moving songs, “She Used To Be Mine,” “What Baking Can Do,” and “It Only Takes A Taste.”
The production team is led by Director Tim Seib, Music Director Dr. Francesca Tortorello, and Choreographer Larry Lozier-Woods. The cast features Zanny Laird as Jenna, Broadway veteran Danny Herman as Joe, La’Nette Wallace as Becky, Catherine Baird as Dawn, Quinn Patrick Shannon as Ogie, Brett Goodnack as Dr. Pomatter, and Ben Sheedy as Cal.
“We are thrilled to bring Waitress to the Pittsburgh region—especially to our very own off-Broadway venue in the West End,” said Colleen Doyno, Executive Director of PMT. “This heartfelt and empowering story, filled with humor, hope, and unforgettable music, is a perfect match to the unique and signature intimacy of the Gargaro Theater. I can't wait for our audiences to fall in love with these characters just as we have. It's a true honor to produce this beautiful show and share it with the community we cherish.”
Tickets are available online at pittsburghmusicals.com/waitresstickets or by calling (412) 456-6666. For accessibility questions and accommodations, patrons should contact PMT Accessibility Coordinator at (412) 539-0900 x232.
For press inquiries, interviews, or additional information, please contact: Lindsay Kalbfleisch, Marketing and Media Manager lindsay@pittsburghmusicals.com
Photo credit: Matt Polk
(Excerpt): My favorite moment of the show was one in which the actor-muso concept was finally taken to its logical extreme. Instead of bows in silence finally erupting into the "Superstar" theme for a playout, as is common, the whole stage floods with every instrument we have seen in the show thus far. The entire cast, en masse, pick up whatever they can play and launch into a massive jam session on "Heaven on Their Minds," in which not only do the major leads get solo time, but also featured ensemblists like Dylan Pal as High Priest/trombone. It's an invigorating, communal, free-form celebration of the show's music, and of the thrill of making music. Greatest story ever told? Try greatest score ever played.
Jesus Christ Superstar is a 2000 plus year old story based on Christ’s life during his final earthly days. It’s a Biblical history with a bit of a twist! Jesus (Brecken Newton Farrell) is the main character, but Judas (Treasure Treasure) and Mary Magdalene (Kamilah Lay) are prominent co-stars in this rock opera (performed without dialogue).
By Claire DeMarco
Based loosely on the Gospel and the last days of Jesus, this slightly revised history debuted in 1971 with lyrics by Tim Rice and music by Andrew Lloyd Webber. Nods to costumes and various modern slang reinforce that time frame.
This re-imagining of the Gospel concentrates specifically on Judas and his relationship with Jesus, his concerns, his frustrations and fears.
Mary loves Jesus, is his greatest support but there are subtle suggestions that something more possibly exists (from her perspective).
Judas is concerned that Jesus’s popularity might cause a problem with the Romans who control the country. He is always advising, arguing and lamenting that Jesus is straying from the intent of their mission and what he is doing will only aggravate the Romans.
Judas’s small fractures in his relationship with Jesus finds him reaching out to Caiaphas the Jewish High Priest (Paul Lutty III). Caiaphas and his fellow priests also find Jesus a threat. Judas’ betrayal begins.
Jesus’s supposed crimes come before the Roman governor Pontius Pilate (Paul Binotto) and we all know how this story ends.
Pittsburgh Musical Theater’s production of Jesus Christ Superstar is visually electric and vocally outstanding!
What a talented group of actors who can sing, dance and play musical instruments. Kudos to the entire cast!
Hold on to your seats! The music might just propel you right out of them! If not during the show, then definitely when the highly charged jam finishes off the evening after curtain call.
As Christ, Farrell is multi-dimensional. He succeeds as the loving Savior, the angry man who kicks the vendors out of the temple, the doubting Son facing a known ending. His performance covers a wide range of emotions. “Poor Jerusalem” and “Gethsemane” highlight his singing skills.
Treasure is a treasure – outstanding as Judas with movements graceful, yet strong. Tense emotion is expressed through Treasure’s strong facial expressions and powerful voice. “Heaven on Their Minds” and “Damned for All Time/Blood Money” are examples of vocal excellence.
“I Don’t Know How to Love Him” is one of the most popular songs of “Jesus Christ Superstar” and Lay’s delivery is excellent. Her interpretation of Mary conveys both strength and gentleness. She is also a gifted violinist.
Lutty’s voice is deep, strong and powerful!
With a strong beautiful voice, Justus Wheatley carries the song “Simon Zealotes” to a new high.
Making a brief but memorable appearance as King Herod in a Liberace-like costume, Taylor Isaac Gray provides comedy relief as the silly, singing and piano playing ruler. His rendition of “King Herod’s Song” hits the mark.
Jesus Christ Superstar lyrics by Tim Rice and music by Andrew Lloyd Webber.
Lighting Designer Forrest Trimble and Scenic Designer Todd Nonn compliment one another’s work as the set and lighting work seamlessly together. An impressive two story-high lighted cross showcases their work.
Excellent orchestration under Music Director Dr. Francesca Tortorello.
Impressive direction and choreography by Danny Herman, Rocker Verastique and Lucas Fedele.
Photo credit: Matt Polk
"All three directors were also choreographers, and the dance moves in this show were amazing, with the ensemble really getting into the groove and the second-to-last number, “Superstar,” being a music-video-worthy performance. Music Director Francesca Tortorello took the challenging and iconic score to new heights — literally — with musicians placed throughout the cast and stage. Many of the cast themselves also played, whether guitars, tambourines or the violin." - TribLive, Alexis Papalia
Photo credit: Matt Polk
A new Jesus Christ Superstar production is taking place April 3 - 13 at the Byham Theater. Daisy got an exclusive sneak peek at what you can expect at the show, including a cameo from Talk Pittsburgh producer Allante Walker.
Photo credit: Pittsburgh Musical Theater
PMT Conservatory Technical Director, Kevin Kocher, and Technical Theater and Design Program Student, Cass, appeared on WQED's Voices of the Arts Podcast to talk about Bring On the Snow! and the collaborative learning environment at PMT.
Photo credit: Matt Polk
"Pittsburgh Musical Theater's Million Dollar Quartet brought together Johnny Cash, Elvis Presley, Carl Perkins and Jerry Lee Lewis for a tale of historical fiction scored by some of the greatest rock music of all time. But the true musical magic happened at the show's 15-minute finale, when essentially a concert broke out, with the four actor/musicians giving their all in a no-holds-barred musical extravaganza." - TribLive, Alexis Papalia
PITTSBURGH - Pittsburgh Musical Theater (PMT), in partnership with the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust, is thrilled to announce its enchanting production of Disney's Beauty and the Beast. The musical will take place November 7 - 10 at the Byham Theater, located in the city's cultural district.
This beloved musical fairytale features iconic songs from the Academy Award-winning animated feature film including "Be Our Guest,” "Beauty and the Beast," and more, which will delight audiences of all ages.
“We are thrilled to present Disney's Beauty and the Beast, a musical delight highlighting the incredible talents of our young artists from PMT Conservatory, in collaboration with the exceptional musicians of the CAPA orchestra. This production embodies the heart of our mission at Pittsburgh Musical Theater - to create professional, high-quality theater while providing our students with invaluable, real-world performance experiences. We are excited to invite Pittsburgh to be our guest for this magical and timeless fairytale live at the Byham Theater.” - Colleen Doyno, Executive Director and Producer
Tickets can be purchased by visiting trustarts.org or calling (412) 456-6666. Group tickets for parties of 10 or more can be purchased by calling (412) 471-6930 or emailing groupsales@trustarts.org
What kind of a musical uses 10-15 gallons of fake blood per show?! Why it is of course Pittsburgh Musical Theater's production of Evil Dead The Musical, running until October 26th at the West End Canopy. Director Nick Mitchell, and actor Brett Goodnack, discuss in this episode about the logistical challenges for this production, and how it takes pieces from all of the Evil Dead movies and TV shows to create a fun musical. They also reminisce about their first collaboration together on this production 5 years ago, and why this musical resonates with so many that it keeps coming back year-after-year.
Just in time for Halloween, Daisy Jade visits Pittsburgh Musical Theater to get a preview of Evil Dead The Musical, back for its fifth year. She's talking to the director and the star of the show!
Photo credit: Matt Polk
'Tis the season for all things spooky, gory and wackily offbeat.
From September 27 through October 26, Pittsburgh Musical Theater (PMT) presents Evil Dead The Musical. The production combines cult classic films The Evil Dead, Evil Dead 2 and Army of Darkness into one crazy theatrical experience that those on the inside promise will provide a hilarious, unforgettable, rollicking good time. The shows take place in an outdoor, covered venue (West End Canopy), and are presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI). It's inappropriate for younger audiences, though highly encouraged for all open-minded adult theatergoers.
Actor Brett Goodnack sells the production as "two straight hours of catchy songs, slapstick humor, tongue-in-cheek (and not-so-tongue-in-cheek) references and some genuinely impressive stage tricks." Zanny Laird calls the production "one wildride full of campy hilarity and blood." She adds, "If you love horror or even just Halloween, like me, this is the show for you."
Photo credit: Matt Polk
Groovy Ghoulies - a review of Evil Dead The Musical
When five college kids, led by Ash (Brett Goodnack), convinces his friends to sneak into a supposedly-abandoned cabin in the woods, he has no idea what sort of mayhem he’s about to unleash in Evil Dead The Musical a musical based on the campy Sam Raimi horror-comedy franchise, The Evil Dead.
Ash takes his girlfriend, Linda (Kamilah Lay), his sister, Cheryl (Sabina May), his best friend, Scott (Brecken Newton Farrell) and a girl Scott picked up in a bar, the ditzy Shelly (Zanny Laird) to the haunted cabin.
Photo credit: Matt Polk
PITTSBURGH - Back by popular demand, Pittsburgh Musical Theater (PMT) will present the cult classic Evil Dead The Musical at the West End Canopy located at PMT, 327 S Main Street. The cast includes Brett Goodnack (Ash), Sabina May (Cheryl), Zanny Laird (Shelly/Annie), Brecken Newton Farrell (Scott), Kamilah Lay (Linda), Michael Zak (Jake), Ben Nadler (Ed), and Damon Oliver Jr. (Knowby). The ensemble features Collin Yates, Anya Epstein, and Jordan Drake. The production is led by Nick Mitchell (Director), Gemma Mitchell (Choreographer), Dr. Francesca Tortorello (Music Director), and Colleen Doyno (Producer).
“I'm absolutely gobsmacked that this giant risk of a show has evolved into a bloody tradition here in Pittsburgh. Each year the show is infused with fresh blood, pun intended, and to be the director of such an amazing cast, crew, and creative team with the full support of PMT is quite the privilege.” says director Nick Mitchell.
Evil Dead The Musical combines all the elements from the cult classic movies, The Evil Dead, Evil Dead 2, and The Army of Darkness into one of the craziest musical experiences of all time featuring campy gore and fake blood. Five college students go to an abandoned cabin in the woods and accidentally unleash an evil force that turns them all into demons. It's all up to Ash (a housewares employee turned demon-killing hero) and his trusty chainsaw to save the day.
Showtimes are 8:30PM on select nights September 27th through October 20th. Tickets can be purchased online at pittsburghmusicals.com/evildeadtickets. Splatter zone seats are also available.
PITTSBURGH - Pittsburgh Musical Theater (PMT) is thrilled to announce the Broadway at the Overlook Season Preview Concert, set to take place from August 29 – September 1 at the picturesque West End Overlook Park. This annual highly anticipated event will offer a sneak peek into PMT’s upcoming season of “Heart & Soul,” featuring performances from Waitress, Jesus Christ Superstar, Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, Evil Dead The Musical, The SpongeBob Musical Youth Edition, and A Lyrical Christmas Carol.
Broadway at the Overlook is a free CitiParks event with a family-friendly, community atmosphere. Attendees are encouraged to arrive early and pack a picnic for an evening full of live music with the city skyline as the backdrop as professional performers alongside PMT Conservatory students bring the magic of Broadway to life. This year’s local professional performers include Quinn Patrick Shannon, Brecken Newton Farrell, Caroline Nicolian, Zanny Laird, Lucas Fedele, Kamilah Lay, and Collin Yates.
For more information about Broadway at the Overlook and PMT’s upcoming season, please visit our website at pittsburghmusicals.com or contact us at (412) 539-0900.
Evil Dead The Musical: September 27 - October 20, West End
Canopy
Kicking off the season with hilarious and bloody fun, this campy
production is back by popular
demand. Based on Sam Raimi's cult classic films, it combines horror, comedy, and catchy
musical numbers.
Disney's Beauty and the Beast: November 7 - 10, Byham
Theater
A tale as old as time, captivating audiences for generations, brings the
magic of Disney to the stage. Featuring all the memorable songs and characters, this enchanting
tale continues to capture hearts worldwide.
A Lyrical Christmas Carol: December 18 - 22, Gargaro
Theater
Bringing the spirit of Christmas to life, PMT's heartwarming and
unique rendition of Charles
Dickens' classic tale features a delightful blend of music and storytelling.
The SpongeBob Musical: Youth Edition: February 27 - March 2,
Gargaro Theater
This vibrant and energetic adaptation of the hit Broadway show is
a fun-filled adventure with
SpongeBob and his friends from Bikini Bottom catered to young audiences.
Jesus Christ Superstar: April 3 - 13, Byham Theater
The iconic rock opera, featuring music by Andrew Lloyd Webber and lyrics by Tim Rice, tells
the
story of the final weeks in the life of Jesus through the eyes of Judas with powerful songs and
riveting performances.
Waitress: May 1 - 25, Gargaro Theater
Pittsburgh Regional Premiere - The season
will close with this heartfelt musical featuring music and lyrics by Grammy winner
Sara Bareilles. This touching story about friendship, love, and finding happiness serves up a
delectable blend of humor, heart, and hope.
“PMT's 2024/2025 season of "Heart & Soul" will delve into the profound essence of the human spirit through heartfelt stories and soul-stirring music. This season is dedicated to presenting shows that resonate deeply with the heart and soul, offering an unforgettable theater experience that celebrates the diversity and depth of humankind.
Our lineup of performances is meticulously crafted to indulge your senses, touch your heart, and satisfy your soul. From tales of friendship and resilience to the warmth of home and the power of love, each show is designed to inspire, uplift, and connect with our community. Through relatable characters and compelling narratives, we highlight themes of compassion, courage, and the enduring bonds that unite us all.
At PMT, we believe in the transformative power of theater to bring people together and evoke a profound sense of connection and community. We look forward to welcoming patrons as we embark on this journey with unforgettable performances that will inspire, uplift, and remind us of the common threads of humanity that weave us together.” - PMT Executive Director, Colleen Doyno
PMT will also present their annual season preview concert, Broadway at the Overlook, August 29 - September 1 at the West End Overlook Park. Tickets are on sale now for all shows (excluding The SpongeBob Musical Youth Edition). Information about the season, purchasing tickets, and Broadway at the Overlook can be found at pittsburghmusicals.com/tickets or by calling (412) 539-0900.
Photo credit: Matt Polk
Photo credit: Matt Polk
Photo credit: Matt Polk
PITTSBURGH - Pittsburgh Musical Theater (PMT) will present the Tony Award-winning musical Million Dollar Quartet for a 4-week run at the Gargaro Theater, located 327 S Main Street in the West End. Based on the true story of a legendary impromptu recording session, Million Dollar Quartet brings to life the iconic moment when four of the greatest names in rock 'n' roll history - Elvis Presley, Jerry Lee Lewis, Carl Perkins, and Johnny Cash - came together at Sun Records in Memphis on December 4, 1956. Audiences will journey back in time to witness the magic of these icons as they perform their greatest hits, including "Blue Suede Shoes," "Great Balls of Fire," "Hound Dog," "I Walk the Line," and many more.
The production team includes Colleen Doyno (Producer), Tim Seib (Director), and Dr. Francesca Tortorello (Music Director). The cast features Collin Yates as Elvis Presley, Allen Law as Johnny Cash, Taylor Isaac Gray as Jerry Lee Lewis, and Jon Rohlf as Carl Perkins.
“Prepare to be dazzled by this sensational production, featuring an ensemble of gifted actors and musicians who bring to life the unforgettable talents of Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, and Carl Perkins. Get ready to be swept away by the electrifying energy of PMT's off-Broadway venue, the Gargaro Theater in the West End. This intimate venue ensures an immersive experience, placing the audience at the heart of the action as they witness the magic of these iconic figures. We can't wait to transport audiences back to that fateful night, with performances that capture the essence of each legendary artist. Million Dollar Quartet promises to deliver an unforgettable night of music, nostalgia, and entertainment for audiences of all ages. - Colleen Doyno, Executive Director
To purchase tickets and view a complete listing of dates and times, please visit pittsburghmusicals.com/mdqtickets. You may also call the Cultural Trust Box Office at (412) 456-6666 for assistance. Groups of 10 or more can reserve tickets by calling (412) 471-6930 or emailing groupsalestrustarts.orgGet ready to Bop to the Top. Executive Director of Pittsburgh Musical Theater, Colleen Doyno, and Conservatory Director, Quinn Patrick Shannon, discuss PMT's last three shows of the season, High School Musical JR., running February 15th to the 18th, Grease running March 7th to the 17th, and Million Dollar Quartet running April 18th to May 12th.
Quinn highlights the immense fun and dedication the students at the conservatory bring to each and every production, including during their summer camps. Colleen reminds us of the valuable life skills theater teaches us all, and how professional productions like Grease are a teaching moment for students and for professional artists in the industry. Visit https://pittsburghmusicals.com/season/ to learn more and find tickets!
Photo credit: Brianna Booher
Photo credit: Matt Polk
Photo credit: Matt Polk
PITTSBURGH - Pittsburgh Musical Theater (PMT) will present the popular rock 'n' roll musical, Grease, March 7-17 at the Byham Theater, located at 101 Sixth St. in the city's Cultural District.
Leading the cast straight from the National Tour of On Your Feet! is Maya Santiago as Sandy and from the Broadway cast of Hadestown is Davis Wayne as Danny. The show will also feature Chris Laitta as Miss Lynch, David Toole as Teen Angel/Vince Fontaine, Zanny Laird as Rizzo, and Brecken Newton Farrell as Kenickie.
The production team includes Colleen Doyno (Producer), Danny Herman and Rocker Verastique (Directors/Choreographers), Dr. Francesca Tortorello (Music Director), and Lucas Fedele (Associate Director/Choreographer).
Grease became the soundtrack of a generation with memorable songs including “Summer Nights,” “Greased Lightnin',” “We Go Together,” and “You're the One That I Want.”
To purchase tickets and view a complete listing of dates and times, please visit pittsburghmusicals.com/greasetickets. You may also call the Cultural Trust Box Office at (412) 456-6666 for assistance. Groups of 10 or more can reserve tickets by calling (412) 471-6930 or emailing groupsalestrustarts.org
PITTSBURGH - Pittsburgh Musical Theater (PMT), in collaboration with the CAPA orchestra, will perform the school edition of the international award-winning musical Les Misérables as this year's annual production that takes place at the Byham Theater in the Cultural District. Presented in partnership with The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust, the show will feature 70 young artists from PMT Conservatory on stage and 65 students from CAPA in the orchestra pit. The production team is led by Quinn Patrick Shannon (director), Danny Herman and Rocker Verastique (choreographers), and Francesca Tortorello (music director).
Les Misérables is the world's longest-running musical - a true modern classic based on Victor Hugo's novel, with one of the most memorable scores of all time. Featuring thrilling and beloved songs “I Dreamed a Dream,” “On My Own,” “Bring Him Home,” “One Day More,” and many more.
Showtimes are 7:30 p.m. on November 2nd, 3rd, and 4th, and 2 p.m. on November 4th and 5th. The Byham Theater is located at 101 Sixth St. downtown. Tickets can be purchased online at pittsburghmusicals.com/lesmistickets or by calling (412) 456-6666.
The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust has helped to transform a downtrodden section of Downtown into a world-class Cultural District that stands as a national model of urban revitalization through the arts. Touring Broadway, contemporary dance, family performances, festivals, visual arts, education and community events are among the wide variety of arts and entertainment programs that the Trust presents and exhibits. Hundreds of artists, thousands of students, and millions of people expand their horizons in our theaters, galleries, and public art environments.
Photo credit: Matt Polk
PITTSBURGH - Back by popular demand, Pittsburgh Musical Theater (PMT) will present the cult classic Evil Dead The Musical at the West End Canopy located at PMT, 327 S Main Street. The cast includes Brett Goodnack (Ash), Laura Barletta (Cheryl), Callee Miles (Shelly/Annie), Brecken Newton Farrell (Scott), Emily Palmer (Linda), J. Alex Noble (Jake), Daniel Lawrence (Ed), Damon Oliver Jr. (Knowby). The ensemble features Gavin Carnahan, Julia Kreutzer, and Hannah Taylor. The production is led by Nick Mitchell (Director), Alex Manalo (Choreographer), and Dr. Francesca Tortorello (Music Director).
“Evil Dead at PMT started out as a bit of an experiment, expanding programming with respect to both content and "Late Night" curtains. What we learned was that audiences wanted more of their favorite deadites! Over the last five years, Evil Dead The Musical at PMT has evolved from an experiment into a tradition. I'm fortunate to be surrounded by the kind of talent on stage and on the production team who loves this crazy, campy piece and strives to find every new laugh, squeeze out a little more blood, and continue to create the world of Ash and those pesky Candarian Demons!” says director Nick Mitchell.
Evil Dead The Musical combines all the elements from the cult classic movies, The Evil Dead, Evil Dead 2, and The Army of Darkness into one of the craziest musical experiences of all time.
Showtimes are 8:30 p.m, on select nights September 28th through October 22nd. Tickets can be purchased online at pittsburghmusicals.com/evildeadtickets. Splatter zone seats are also available.
