By As the penultimate musical of the 59th season, Musical Theater West’s “Forbidden Broadway: Greatest Hits, Volume 2” compiles the best acts from the long running off-Broadway show series “Forbidden Broadway.” The plot is filled with different scenes that parody many popular Broadway shows, actors and topics that have graced The Great White Way.
No topic, showtune or star is safe from this satirical show, which was created and written by Gerard Alessandrini and directed and staged by William Selby with musical direction from Matthew Smedal. With scenes that parody musicals like “Wicked,” “Annie” and “West Side Story,” this production proves that nothing is too new or special.
Writer and performer Alessandrini first showcased “Forbidden Broadway” off-Broadway in 1982 with the first production spoofing famous Broadway musicals, stars and trends. The show is presented in a cabaret revue style that features two actors and two actresses.
It also usually uses costumes and set pieces that are a little on the less expensive side.
“We have a lot of visuals and the costumes are just great,” said William Selby, director.
Since its conception, the show has had many different versions that have evolved with the different themes, shows and times of Broadway. The original “Forbidden Broadway” series ran for 26 years and closed in 2009.
In 2009, Musical Theater West introduced this series with “Forbidden Broadway: Greatest Hits, Volume 1.” According to Selby, the first show was so successful that they decided to do another one and asked him back to direct again.
To compile this greatest hits production, Selby thought about all the different acts from the different variations of “Forbidden Broadway.”
“Broadway shows change every year,” Selby said. “We always have a large collection to choose from.”
For this production, Selby tailored the show specifically for Southern California.
“I was thinking about appeal,” Selby said. “[I thought about] what the audience here would like and what has toured through here.”
Although this production will feature many acts from the series, there are also some new surprises and songs that Selby hinted at for this show. According to Selby, there is a special number that pokes fun at “what is considered to be the great American musical.” He describes this secret act as similar to “A Chorus Line.”
Together with the producers and a creative team, Selby has designed a show that he hopes will entertain audiences of all ages.
“It’s fun. I don’t think there’s anything too racy,” Selby said.
He also explained that although the show is centered on different musicals, people who are not as familiar with the shows can still find it entertaining.
“There’s so much funny on stage. It will be hard not to laugh,” Selby said.
Selby is not the only one returning for a second round. This production features three cast members who took part in Musical Theater West’s production of “Forbidden Broadway Greatest Hits: Volume 1.” Larry Raben, David Engel and Susanne Blakeslee are returning for part two, along with Valerie Fagan, who will be making her Musical Theater West debut.
The task is for a small cast to carry a large show.
However, Selby said, “I’m very proud of the cast. They’ve been working really hard.”
“Forbidden Broadway: Greatest Hits, Volume 2” opens April 13 and runs until April 29. Performances start at 8 p.m. with matinee performances on April 15, 21, 22 and 29. There is a 7 p.m. performance on April 22. Tickets range from $17 to $85. To purchase tickets or for more information, visit musical.org.
