CCM Presents 2008 Musical Theater Senior Showcase 'We the People'

The University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music (CCM) Musical Theater program proudly presents the annual

Musical Theater Showcase

, "We the People," a new revue created by the 2008 graduating class. The April 3 premiere performance, a benefit for the Friends of CCM, features a post-performance celebration and dinner-by-the-bite. Additional performances are April 4 and 5. All take place in CCM's Patricia Corbett Theater.

Each year, CCM's musical theater seniors collaborate under the supervision of department chair Aubrey Berg to create an original showcase of their singing, dancing and acting talents for New York City casting directors and agents -- and hometown audiences are the first to get a sneak peek at these rising stars. The New York showcase is a valuable start for these young performers, providing them with the opportunity to be seen by many of the leading agents, casting directors and managers in the business.

"We have an extremely diverse and talented senior class this year," Berg notes. "Many of them have already signed contracts to perform this summer, and they are all very excited for the challenge of performing in New York."

"We The People" offers a look at the Constitution through the eyes of today's youth. The revue will include a variety of dance styles and music ranging from classic show tunes ("You Can't Get a Man Without a Gun" from 'Annie Get Your Gun') to contemporary pop ("Ball of Confusion" by The Temptations).

Thursday, April 3, 7 p.m. (Friends of CCM Benefit)

The opening performance of "We the People" on Thursday, April 3, a benefit hosted by the Friends of CCM, begins at 7 p.m. and includes dinner-by-the-bite served in the CCM Atrium after the performance.

This event also includes the presentation of the Musical Theater Young Alumni Award, which recognizes outstanding professional achievement by a graduate of CCM's musical theater program from the past two decades. This year's recipient is Ashley Brown, who currently stars on Broadway in the title role of 'Mary Poppins.' Brown's success story began with the 2004 New York showcase; within 20 minutes, she received an offer to tour nationally with the Disney revue, 'On the Record,' which then led to her role as Belle in Broadway's 'Beauty and the Beast.' Her performance as Mary Poppins has earned her nominations for an Outer Critics Circle Award, Drama League Award, Drama Desk Award, and Broadway.com Audience Award for Favorite Onstage Pair (with 'Mary Poppins' co-star, Gavin Lee).

Tickets for the April 3 benefit are $75, and proceeds benefit student career development grants and scholarships. To reserve a ticket, call CCM External Relations at 513-556-5000.

Friday, April 4 & Saturday, April 5, 8 p.m.

Admission to "We the People" on Friday, April 4 and Saturday, April 5 is FREE, though seating is limited and reservations are required. Call the CCM Box Office at 513-556-4183 beginning Monday, March 31 at noon to make a reservation.

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University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music
2008 MUSICAL THEATER SENIOR SHOWCASE: "WE THE PEOPLE"

"We the People" is a new musical revue created and performed by CCM's 2008 graduating class in musical theater. These performances give local audiences a sneak peek before the revue is presented for New York City casting agents and directors.

Performance Dates:

* Thursday, April 3, 7 p.m.: Friends of CCM Benefit, including dinner-by-the-bite and presentation of the Young Alumni Award to Ashley Brown

* Friday, April 4, 8 p.m.

* Saturday, April 5, 8 p.m.

Location:

Patricia Corbett Theater, University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music

ADMISSION & ORDERING INFORMATION:

* Thursday, April 3 (Friends of CCM Benefit): $75

Call CCM External Relations at 513-556-5000.

* Friday, April 4 and Saturday, April 5: FREE, though reservations are required.

Call the CCM Box Office at 513-556-4183 beginning Monday, March 31 at noon.

Parking:

Parking is available in the CCM Garage (at the base of Corry Boulevard off Jefferson Avenue) and additional garages throughout the University of Cincinnati campus. For parking rates and directions, please visit www.ccm.uc.edu.

Musical Theater Program Sponsor: The Otto M. Budig Family Foundation