The Broadway Collection News for December
The Tree At Rockefeller Center
December in New York is arguably unlike anything you’ll ever experience. There are countless free activities for travelers to take part in which perfectly complement going to Broadway shows. One of the first and most well-known wintry experiences in New York will take place December 3rd between 7pm and 9pm with the 82nd annual Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony will take place. Thousands of locals and international travelers will crowd the sidewalks between 5th and 7th Avenues and 47th and 50th Streets to be a part of the magic that is this tradition known around the globe. 5 miles of sparkly lights will be strung around a towering tree and celebrities will make appearances as a Swarovski crystal is set atop the tree.
Nearby guests can elect to skate on the rinks at either Rockefeller Plaza, an iconic must-do for your first time in NYC or if you’ve been before, you might opt to skate at Bryant Park instead where costs are lower and lines are shorter. Of course travelers and locals alike always delight in the Rockettes winter extravaganza, the Radio City Christmas Spectacular. Whether it’s your first or fiftieth time in the city, this holiday tradition just doesn’t seem to get old.
In Broadway News:
The cast and orchestra of one of this seasons smash revivals On The Town: A Helluva Musical has recorded a two disc cast-album. Featuring songs such as the classic “New York, New York” the show and its music capture the feelings inspired by the city that never sleeps and the myriad of entertainment on hand in the 5 boroughs. The CD is available now for pre-order at WWW.PSCLASSICS.COM.
Another holiday classic will come to life in New York this month with Matilda’s Christopher Sieber to star in a one-night benefit concert presentation of Mr. Magoo’s Christmas Carol on December 15th. Proceeds will go to The Actors Fund, a national human services organization that provides help for everyone in performing arts and entertainment.
Wicked on Broadway is welcoming a number of new stars in the month of December. Caroline Bowman, of another Broadway Collection show Kinky Boots will step into the role of Elphaba. Kara Lindsay will assume the role of Glinda, directly from playing the role on national tour. Kathy Fitzgerald will return to the Broadway company as Madame Morrible, Matt Shingledecker will take up the role of Fiyero, and Boq will be played by two-time Tony Award Nominee Robin Dejesus. Wicked currently has eight productions around the world in London, Japan (Tokyo), Australia (Sydney), Latin America (Mexico City), a U.K. Tour (Edinburgh), and two other tours, in addition to its major attraction Wicked on Broadway!
In celebration of 20 years of Disney Theatrical magic, on December 14th Jesse Tyler Ferguson will host “Backstage with Disney on Broadway: Celebrating 20 Years.” International sensation Elton John is set to perform, as is Adam Jacobs of Aladdin. Viewers will be granted unprecedented behind-the scenes access to a special Lion King rehearsal and an Aladdin on Broadway performance. If you are traveling anywhere in America you can catch the special on ABC Sunday December 14th at 7:00pm ET.