In an interview with Broadway World, Idina, who will be starring in the new Broadway musical If/Then, said:

When I first went to Broadway, it was a life-changing experience. There's something magical about walking through the theatre district and seeing the marquees and the lights. Nothing compares to a live Broadway performance! As an adult, I still have that nostalgic feeling I had as a child. It's important that kids come to theatre because they get to see life through different characters. The arts are so important in general, and I'm so grateful that my career awards me with so many special opportunities to connect with young people. I'm honored to be the Kids' Night on Broadway National Ambassador and extra thrilled that this year's cause-related component is our arts-centered foundation, A Broader Way, which enables expression, empowerment, and enlightenment. As does Broadway.

Kids' Night on Broadway is a program that allows children ages 6 - 18 to see participating Broadway shows for free when their parents purchase a full-price ticket. 

TPAC will host a Kids' Night on Broadway with half price tickets* to the opening night of Sister Act on March 11, 2014.  To purchase tickets, visit TPAC.org/SisterAct and use the code KIDS. 

*This limited offer is available in Price Levels 2-5 only. Tickets must be purchased in multiples of 2. Limit 6 tickets per household. 

• Desi Arnaz first became famous when he popularized the song "Babalu" in 1947, which is a tribute to an Afro-Cuban god. 
  
  
  
  
• Desi was the son of Desiderio Alberto Arnaz, the mayor of Santiago, Cuba and a member of the Cuban House of Representatives and Dolores de Acha, whose father was one of three founders of Bacardi Rum. 
  
   
• Although Desi Arnaz is not credited with inventing the conga line, he is credited with popularizing it thanks to his role in the 1940 movie Too Many Girls.
   
• Lucy's maiden name on the show I Love Lucy was McGillicuddy.
• Desi introduced live audiences and also helped develop the three-camera shoot that is still used for sitcoms today. 
  
  
  Be sure to catch the "I Love Lucy Christmas Special" Friday, December 20 at 7 PM on CBS and get your tickets for I Love Lucy Live on Stage playing January 14 - February 2, 2014 at tpac.org/lucy!    

Frozen, Disney's 53rd animated feature based on Hans Christian Andersen's fairy tale The Snow Queen, opened over the weekend to record-breaking numbers. The movie centers on Princess Anna (voiced by Kristen Bell) and her race to find her sister, Elsa (voiced by Idina Menzel) before the kingdom of Arendelle becomes stuck in eternal winter. 

Not only does the movie star the voice talents of Broadway great Idina Menzel, it also features the resident Prince of Broadway, Santino Fontana from Rogers + Hammerstein's Cinderella as Prince Hans. Josh Gad who won a Tony Award for his portrayal of Elder Cunningham in The Book of Mormon plays the voice of Olaf the snowman. Kristoff is voiced by Jonathon Groff, who originated the role of Melchior Gabor in Spring Awakening and appeared in several episodes of Glee as Jesse St. James. 

Along with phenonmenal singers, the soundtrack will offer music written by Tony Award winner Robert Lopez, the composer of The Book of Mormon and Avenue Q. 

Combine all of that talent with Disney's storytelling skills and you have a movie that is sure to charm movie-goers of all ages! 

1. The hilarious Whoopi Goldberg starred in both. 

2. Both musicals are coming to TPAC this season! 

3. Both are on sale now! 

From a technical standpoint, Ghost the Musical and Sister Act the Musical are distinct in their own ways, but they both have heart-warming stories to back up the fantastic original music. 

Here's Paul Kieve, the "illusions designer" for Ghost the Musical, providing a behind-the-scenes look at how he approached the creation of jaw-dropping stage magic for this one-of-a-kind musical experience. See you if you can figure how they do it. Ghost plays February 25 to March 2, 2014. 

Find out what happens when the TPAC Review Crew dress up as Sister Act nuns, escape from TPAC, and go sightseeing in Nashville. Keep a lookout for Capitol Hill, Legislative Plaza, Musica, the Parthenon, the men's room at the Hermitage Hotel, and lower Broadway. Special thanks to Jeni's, Bill at Walkin' Nashville music tours, Bolton's and Wanna B's. Sister Act the Musical plays March 6-11, 2014.

Be sure to visit tpac.org/ghost and tpac.org/sisteract  for tickets!

Psst! Special deals will be announced for Black Friday and Cyber Monday soon! Sign up for our StageLinks at tpac.org/stagelinks to receive the news!

Photo by Shane Burkeen courtesy Tennessee Repertory Theatre.

Tennessee Repertory Theatre’s production of Oscar Wilde’s The Importance of Being Earnest, is now playing at TPAC’s Andrew Johnson Theater and getting rave reviews. Check out the latest from Evans Donnell at ArtsNash:

“The entire cast – which also includes Bobby Wyckoff doubling as servants Lane and Merriman, Denice Hicks as Cecily’s governess Miss Prism and Brian Webb Russell as the Rev. Canon Chasuble – are in command of moment and mirth throughout. Each has impeccable timing, and their actions and reactions are precisely what one would think they should be for each character. Carter and Landham are particularly impressive in their attacks; it’s not hard to fall into the trap of overdoing their characters’ pomposity such that Bracknell and Gwendolyn become boorish, but both actors avoid that trap with deliveries that breathe fresh life into characters I’ve seen at least 30 times on stage or screen over the years.”

Oscar Wilde’s The Importance of Being Earnest, directed by Rene Copeland, runs through November 2. Performances are at 6:30 p.m. Tuesdays-Thursdays; 7:30 p.m. Fridays-Saturdays; and 2:30 p.m. Oct. 19 and 26 as well as Nov. 2. 

For tickets call (615) 782-4040 or visit www.tennesseerep.org

This month, the fan-favorite blockbuster musical, Wicked, will celebrate its 10^th anniversary. On October 30, it will become one of only 10 other Broadway productions to have reached this milestone. Here is a look at all the “Emerald City” celebrations coming up:

 First, a deluxe edition of the original Broadway Cast recording with all 19 original tracks, plus bonus tracks, and a new track called “Popular Song” by MIKA featuring Arianna Grande, will be released digitally October 29 and in stores November 19. The two-CD edition will feature new artwork created specifically for the show’s anniversary. It will include a booklet with updated content by composer Stephen Schwartz and Gregory Maguire, author of Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West. A vinyl, collector’s edition will be for sale online at www.wickedthemusical.com and at the Gershwin Theatre.

 If you will be in New York, you can find Wicked costumes, memorabilia, and merchandise on display from October 20 to November 1 at the NBC Experience Store in Rockefeller Plaza. At the JFK airport, the American Airlines terminal will be transformed into Oz from October 15 until November 30. The display, called the “World of Wicked,” will feature a replica of Glinda’s bubble and a special museum display called “Behind the Emerald Curtain.”

 The show’s home on Broadway, the Gershwin Theatre, is undergoing renovations for the 10^th anniversary performance, including changes to the front-of-house and restrooms, as well as the installation of new carpeting and new seats. Meanwhile, the artwork and website for Wicked are receiving makeovers, and a special “greenified” Playbill will be distributed at the show on the night of October 30.

 Don’t live in New York and feel like you’re missing out on all Wicked fun? Fans of the show on Facebook and Twitter followers can participate in online giveaways during “30 Days of Flight.” The prizes include special gifts, messages from cast members, and more. Every week, fans will have the opportunity to win two tickets to the 10th anniversary performance. You can like Wicked here and follow the show here.

Last but not least, celebrity and fashion manicurist Deborah Lippman has created a new trio of nail polishes in honor of the anniversary. You can pick up the shades called “Defying Gravity”, “Popular”, and “One Short Day” at Sephora stores or www.sephora.com for a limited time.  

Wicked is currently playing an open-ended run on Broadway in New York and operating two national tours, one of which will make a four-week, return stop at the Tennessee Performing Arts Center in March to April 2014. Tickets go on sale in January.

For more on the anniversary celebrations and reunions check out these links:
WICKED 10th Anniversary Cruise Launches November 3 

Idina Menzel & Kristin Chenoweth Smile Big For New WICKED Reunion Photo 

WICKED Chat: Kristin Chenoweth & Idina Menzel Talk Rumored Rivalry, Tonys, & More

BWW TV Exclusive: BACKSTAGE WITH RICHARD RIDGE - WICKED 10th Anniversary Special with Leading Ladies Lindsey Mendez & Alli Mauzey!

A 10-year veteran of the performing arts center, Hyams oversees all operations in production, ticketing, patron services, marketing, and facility maintenance for the organization’s four performance venues, including Andrew Jackson Hall (capacity 2,472), James K. Polk Theater (capacity 1,075), Andrew Johnson Theater (capacity 264) and the historic War Memorial Auditorium (capacity 1,789), adjacent to the center.

Hyams, a native of Hopkinsville, KY, has served as the center’s executive vice president and general manager since 2009. Before joining TPAC as a marketing director in 2003, Hyams worked for the Ryman Auditorium, the Frist Center for the Visual Arts, and Gaylord Entertainment in Nashville. He also has worked for agencies in Atlanta and New York. Hyams graduated from The University of Georgia’s Grady College of Journalism and Mass Communication in 1994 with a degree in advertising. He now serves on the Grady Society Board.

“Brent has brought to our organization an unrivaled dedication to detail and a passion for creating full, memorable experiences for all of our audience members,” said Kathleen O’Brien, TPAC president and chief executive officer. “We’re extremely fortunate to have his forward thinking and leadership talents, and I’m privileged to work alongside him as we enter the next fiscal year.”

Recently, Hyams has spearheaded plans to renovate and research the historic War Memorial Auditorium, which was dedicated in 1925 as a memorial to Tennesseans killed in World War I. The auditorium has a unique history as both a civic center and premier music venue for Nashville. It was not only where presidential candidates would speak but it was home to the Nashville Symphony for 55 years (1925-1980) and the fourth home of the Grand Ole Opry (1939-1943).

“TPAC has long managed the auditorium as a beautiful space for weddings, special events, and performances. My goal has been to dig deeper into the amazing history of the auditorium and help people rediscover it as a Tennessee treasure,” Hyams said. “We have collaborated with local and state archives to find old photos, remodel the dressing rooms, and upgrade the sound system to work better with the auditorium’s natural acoustics. It’s really been a labor of love for me, and I’m excited about continuing the tradition of bringing a wide variety of musical acts from all genres for Nashvillians to experience in this storied hall.”

Hyams is involved with the Nashville Downtown Partnership and the 5^th Avenue of the Arts. He also is a member of the International Association of Venue Managers. Hyams is married to Amy Lewis, with whom he has two sons, Lewis and Fentress.

Everyone is talking about Nashville. It City. Nowville. Music City. But, to us, it will always be MUSICAL CITY.

“Everywhere you look Nashville is turning heads and making headlines, and we’re proud of the role TPAC plays in our city’s thriving creative community by providing audiences with the best of Broadway’s cutting-edge storytelling, family-friendly entertainment, and pop culture-filled blockbusters,” TPAC President and CEO Kathleen O’Brien said. It’s a year of entertainment packed with new musicals, long-awaited returns, worldwide hits, and some of the most jaw-dropping artistry being presented on stage. We can’t wait to share it with you.”

Last night TPAC announced the 2013-2014 HCA/TriStar Health Broadway Season line up: Jersey Boys, We Will Rock You, Ghost, Sister Act, Million Dollar Quartet, and War Horse. Broadway Special Events include: Disney's Beauty and the Beast, Wicked, I Love Lucy Live on Stage and A Christmas Carol.

The event kicked off with special guest performers from The Million Dollar Quartet followed closely by a performance from Jersey Boys. TPAC also hosted another very special guest, Joey and his puppeteers, from War Horse. Please take a look at this special feature put together by the Tennessean yesterday!

Other headlines from the event:

TPAC announces 2013-14 season - The Tennessean

TPAC announces 2013-2014 season - Out & About

Jersey Boys, Wicked, War Horse and Sister Act On Tap for Nashville ... - Broadway World

http://artsnash.com/theater/war-horse-tpac/ - ArtsNash

http://www.lacampana.us/lac/2013/04/17/broadway-tpac-devela-sus-espectaculos-musicales-para-la-temporada-2013-2014/ - La Campana

We invite you all to join us this season and experience firsthand another thrilling season at your home for the performing arts. For more information on the HCA/TriStar Health Broadway at TPAC series, visit us at www.tpac.org/broadway, where season tickets may be purchased, or call TPAC Subscriber Services at (615) 782-6560 or (800) 410-4216 if you live outside the Nashville area.

The statistic is staggering. Tennessee is No. 1 in the nation for meth use.

Law enforcement is not the only group taking notice.

With a unique approach to awareness and prevention of drug use among young people, the Tennessee Performing Arts Center is putting a spotlight on meth and joining the movement against such abuse.

This month, TPAC Education presents “Cranked,” a 45-minute play that tells the story of a talented rap artist’s destructive addiction to meth and his struggle to rebuild his life. Blending spoken-word poetry and hip-hop, the production is timely considering the widespread use of meth and other drugs in Tennessee and is a relevant launching point for discussions with teens.

“Often, what we, as adults, consider compelling information is perceived as white noise by teens — it doesn’t get through,” said Roberta Ciuffo West, TPAC executive vice president for education and outreach. “But the arts often find a way to penetrate that without diluting the message.”

There will be a special after-school performance of “Cranked” at 4 p.m. on April 12 at the Tennessee Performing Arts Center. Due to strong language, it is recommended only for a high school audience. The show will be followed by Southern Word’s 2013 Wild Card Semifinal Slam. This event will give local youth poets and spoken-word artists a chance to qualify for the Mid-South Grand Slam Finals and a national competition. Tickets are $8 and may be purchased at the door or by calling 615-687-4288.

In addition to the after-school performance open to the public, “Cranked” will be performed in matinees for student audiences through TPAC Education’s annual season for young people. Groups interested in attending a performance today through April 12 can contact Cassie LaFevor at 615-687-4288 or clafevor@tpac.org.  http://www.tpac.org/education/HOT/SeasonforYoungPeople/index.asp#Cranked

Reach Jessica Bliss at 615-259-8253 or jbliss@tennessean.com.

The Fairness in Ticketing Act is designed to make sure that online ticket resale marketplaces work for fans – not for scalpers who deceive and take advantage of them.  It must be approved by other committees and both houses of the Tennessee General Assembly to become law.

“Tennessee is a leader in entertainment and surely we can be a leader in protecting fans,” Pete Fisher, general manager of the historic Grand Ole Opry, stated to the House Business and Utilities Committee.

The proposal would require professional ticket scalpers to register with the state, disclose to prospective buyers the ticket’s original face value and be transparent about whether they have the tickets in hand they propose to sell.  It would crack down on use of websites created by scalpers that masquerade as the official sales site and lure many fans into paying prices higher than face value. 

The proposal is supported by more than 80 Tennessee live entertainment venues, sports teams, entertainers, artist managers and tour promoters.

Supporters say basic, common-sense regulations are needed to fix a ticket resale market increasingly dominated by out-of-state scalpers who operate anonymously on the web to take advantage of fans.

“The problems caused by out-of-state professional ticket brokers are a big-time problem for the Opry and Ryman Auditorium,” Fisher stated in the House Business and Utilities Committee. “Without rules in place that require simple disclosures, buyers often end up with no tickets on the day of the show or seats in a completely different location. Tennesseans should know that if they buy a ticket with their hard-earned dollars, they should get to see the game or the concert that they bought that ticket for.”

Members of the Fairness in Ticketing Act include: NFL Tennessee Titans, Tennessee Performing Arts Center, Country Music Association, NHL Nashville Predators and Bridgestone Arena, Orpheum Theater Memphis, FedExForum and NBA Memphis Grizzlies, the University of Tennessee (Thompson-Boling Arena in Knoxville and McKenzie Arena in Chattanooga), The Cumberland County Playhouse in Crossville, Knoxville’s Bijou and Tennessee theaters, Bristol Motor Speedway and Freedom Hall Civic Center in Johnson City.   Artist members include Kenny Chesney, Garth Brooks, The Black Keys, Eric Church, Jason Aldean and Dierks Bentley.

contact Lauren Weathers, lauren@tseic.com, Tennessee Sports & Entertainment Industry Coalition