‘War Paint’
It is rare to see two historic figures portrayed by equally reputable artists. In the new musical “War Paint,” Tony Award-winning actresses Patty LuPone and Christine Ebersole take on the roles of cosmetic titans Helena Rubinstein and Elizabeth Arden, who revolutionized the way the world viewed women in business during the early 20th century.
“To see these two actresses playing these characters is a treat — they are Broadway legends in themselves,” said Lee.
Inspired by the 2007 documentary “The Powder and the Glory,” the show explores the intense rivalry between these two powerful women, who both spent a lifetime transforming themselves from poor immigrants to household names.
What makes this story arc such a feat is that Arden and Rubinstein never met in real life, despite their salons having stood mere blocks from each other in Manhattan. To bridge this narrative gap, the story highlights the parallels between their lives — their masked loneliness, relationship strife and most of all, unwavering resolve — hinting that, perhaps, in another life, these competitors might have been great friends.
Rubinstein once said about her rival, “With her packaging and my product, we could have ruled the world.”
‘Aladdin’
Now in its third year on Broadway, “Aladdin” transports viewers to the exotic and vibrant world of Agrabah, a fictional Middle Eastern kingdom where a lowly street thief named Aladdin attempts to win the heart of the noble Princess Jasmine with the help of a magic lamp and a flying carpet. This romantic adventure takes flight under the spotlight with lavish costumes and a breathtaking set designed by seven-time Tony winner Bob Crowley.
“Aladdin’ is a musical comedy but with that Disney magic that keeps groups coming back to our shows,” said Suzanne Gregory, assistant manager at Disney Theatrical Group.
Fans of the 1992 animated Disney film of the same title will recognize many musical numbers from legendary composer Alan Menken and lyricist Howard Ashman. The dreamy ballad “A Whole New World” emanates magic with glittering stars and a flying carpet that appears to float seamlessly over the stage and audience.
As the wisecracking Genie, James Monroe Iglehart offers a zestful rendition of “Friend Like Me,” which includes references to “Beauty and the Beast,” “West Side Story” and other Broadway hits. Jonathan Freeman reprises his role from the film as the sinister Jafar.
One of the most noticeable contrasts with the film is the replacement of the animal companions with human counterparts: Iago the sneering parrot becomes a pint-sized henchman, and three thieving pals take the place of Aladdin’s monkey sidekick, Abu.
The musical began its first North American tour in April.
‘The Lion King’
Since its musical debut in 1997, “The Lion King” has thrilled audiences of all ages, drawing inspiration from the beloved 1994 Disney film.
The imaginative coming-of-age story follows a young lion named Simba as he explores the colorful and dangerous African landscape; befriends a comical warthog named Pumbaa and a meerkat named Timon; and eventually faces off against his scheming uncle, Scar, who covets his birthright as leader of the lion pride.
“‘The Lion King’ is that landmark theatrical event,” said Gregory. “There’s nothing else like it.”
The animal kingdom roars to life onstage in the form of towering puppets and vibrant, African-themed costumes, from giraffes portrayed by actors on stilts to mechanical headpieces on the lions. While adding new music and expanded narrative features, the show also brings back the unforgettable songs composed by Elton John and Tim Rice, including “Circle of Life,” “I Just Can’t Wait To Be King,” “Hakuna Matata” and “Can You Feel the Love Tonight.”
The Tony and Olivier Award-winning musical takes the crown as Broadway’s highest grossing production of all time, and is the third-longest-running show on Broadway.
