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Overcast Broadway comes to Hofstra
Musical theater’s stars sing their hearts out in Broadway Live! 2
The songs. The shows. The stars. You don’t need to make your way into Manhattan to enjoy the glamour and the glorious music of the Broadway stage.
Hofstra University’s Helene Fortunoff Theater welcomes a bit of Broadway this weekend, Jan. 20-22, in the form of “Broadway Live! 2.” A musical revue of Broadway’s best, it is a lively look at The Great White Way, from Thoroughly Modern Mille to Hair and Jersey Boys, along with the great American songwriters.
“Broadway Live! 2 is a wonderful Broadway journey with three stars of musical theater,” said Robert Spiotto, executive producer of Hofstra Entertainment.
It’s actually the show’s second incarnation at Hofstra. The first edition of Broadway Live! performed last June to enthusiastic audiences at the opening of Hofstra’s 2011 summer season. “It was so favorably received that we just had to do it again,” Spiotto said. “We are delighted to have it back and delighted that Robert Cuccioli, who was in the original production is returning.”
Along with Cuccioli, a Tony Award-nominee for Jekyll & Hyde, the cast includes Trisha Rapier, who can be currently seen on Broadway in Sister Act, and Stephanie Pope, who has appeared in Thoroughly Modern Mille and Chicago, among her other credits.
Cuccioli is a veteran of Broadway Live, having appeared in the revue since its inception. “He is a fan favorite,” said Sandi Durell, who produces Broadway Live! and other similar productions, with Shari Upbin. “Audiences love him and we are delighted to have him continue with the show.” Of course, he’ll perform his signature song, “This is the Moment,” from Jekyll & Hyde, as well as other favorites.
“We have blend of performers that have a terrific rapport together and audiences are in for a real treat,” said Durell. “We are thrilled to have Stephanie Pope with us. She is a terrific Broadway performer, who is such an asset. She is a great singer and dancer. And Trisha Rapier is an exceptional talent, who fortunately for us, has a two week break from Sister Act and can be in this show.”
