Latest news with #Broadway-style
Mint
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- Mint
A school in California has been presenting Ramayana for nearly 50 years
From pre-schoolers and kindergartners dancing and prancing on the stage as forest animals to high school students delivering long dialogues and melodies as the main protagonists, the annual production Ramayana by the California-based Mount Madonna School as its end-of-year performance is a feast of sorts. The 46th-year production is a revered and loved tradition by not only the school's students but also the teachers, parents, non-teaching staff, and alumni who volunteer at the school's annual production. The longest-running Broadway-style show in the western hemisphere, based on the ancient epic, took place this year at the Mexican Heritage Plaza in San Jose from 5 June through 8 June. An amalgamation of varied skills of the students, ranging from ballet moves, traditional Indian classical dancing and acrobatics to singing and acting, was all on display via creatively intermingled dance choreographies, songs and other parts. The school show evolves annually, mingling the old parts with the new. A school in California has been presenting Ramayana for nearly 50 years Many high school seniors who have been participating in the production for many years reach their acting and singing zenith as the main characters of Lord Rama, Lord Shiva, Goddess Sita, Goddess Parvati and others. The production opened with almost 200 students participating in the invocation to Goddess Saraswati with chants of Jai Ma-Jai Jai Ma. 'We are learning more and more about the epic as we present Ramayana every year. Our senior class of six students went to India and spent time in Himachal Pradesh and Haridwar at Sri Ram Ashram, a sister school of Mount Madonna School,' says Director Chelsea Otterness. 'The seniors learnt more about the characters that they are portraying and were surrounded by the vibrancy of the Indian culture of acceptance of other cultures.' Otterness adds understanding and learning more about the depth of the story and how Ramayana is a well, and one can learn so much, including the lessons of the evolution of consciousness. Never did I think that 10,000 miles away from India, I'd get to see a play on Ramayana. Like many Indians, I too have grown up on the stories of the ancient epic, and I remember debating and deliberating with friends and family on some of the actions and decisions of the protagonists in the tale. I also have many sweet memories associated with the stories from the scripture. I remember many summer vacation nights, lying under the cool evening sky in my maternal grandmother's house in Chandigarh, when my cousins and I would huddle around our grandfather to hear and rehear the myriad tales from Ramayana. Our Pitaji's description in precise details of Sitaji in her varied jewels was such that we were transformed to a different world. The showcase of the production on the holy scripture was started by the members of the Hanuman Fellowship Centre, a non-profit organisation founded by the students of Baba Hari Dass and Mount Madonna School (an affiliation of the Hanuman Fellowship Centre). Ramayana was introduced by teacher and Yoga Master, Baba Hari Dass. In 1972, students of the Hanuman Fellowship performed at yoga retreats and then at various venues, including universities. Initially, some children were members of the predominantly adult cast, but in 1979, the Mount Madonna School commenced a production with the students and other children making up the cast. After running parallel productions for several years, the school show evolved into an exclusive program. A school in California has been presenting Ramayana for nearly 50 years The enthusiastic uptake of the ancient scripture of the Orient by school students in the US as a subject of its performing arts program and the long-term success of the effort are enthralling. Though the artistic merit of the production can be enhanced in various dimensions, the showcase of the long and difficult tale in less than four hours seemed a Herculean achievement in its own right. On the plain of set grandiose and costume glamour, the play left nothing more to ask for. All ingredients of children's entertainment were present, and adults basked in the efforts and resulting pleasure of the young artists.
IOL News
13-06-2025
- Entertainment
- IOL News
Your ultimate guide to a seamless voyage: 15 tips for first-time MSC cruisers
Indulge in luxury and explore new horizons with MSC Opera cruise, Image: Supplied Indulge in endless entertainment . Enjoy access to Broadway-style shows, thrilling water parks, casinos and more – all included in your cruise fare. Dine your way, all day. Savour unlimited buffet and main restaurant meals, and drink packages for added indulgence. Make every port count. Pre-book excursions for the best deals. As MSC Opera returns to South African waters for the highly anticipated 2025/2026 local cruise season, now is the perfect time to experience the magic of cruising. If you've booked your first cruise (or you are seriously considering it) – congratulations, you're about to embark on an unforgettable journey filled with adventure, relaxation and endless entertainment. Here are 15 essential tips to help you make the most of your experience, from prepping and packing to your final sunset at sea. Trip preparation: Packing and pre-cruise essentials 1. Pack smart, pack light While MSC Opera has plenty of storage, overpacking can make your cabin feel cluttered. Opt for versatile clothing, comfortable shoes for excursions and don't forget formal attire for elegant evenings. 2. Know what's not allowed Leave behind prohibited items like irons, candles and drones. Most essentials, like hairdryers and bathrobes, are provided in your cabin. 3. Print and prepare your e-ticket Boarding is a breeze with your MSC Cruise e-ticket or boarding pass. This document contains all your essential travel details, luggage tags and itinerary information. 4. Pre-book shore excursions and special packages Popular excursions sell out fast! Booking early not only secures your spot but often saves you money compared to purchasing onboard. Consider adding a Fun Pass for extra onboard activities at a discount. 5. Set up your cruise card and payment method MSC Cruises operates cash-free. Link a credit card to your cruise card for easy onboard purchases or make a cash deposit at guest services when you board. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ Guests browse and book shore excursions to make the most of every destination Image: Supplied Onboard experience: Dining, entertainment and more 6. Enjoy unlimited dining options. You can eat as much or as little as you like, from breakfast buffets to gourmet dinners. Remember, all buffet and main restaurant meals are always included in your cruise fare. 7. Take advantage of drinks packages. Water, coffee and tea are complimentary, but sodas, alcohol and specialty drinks require a package upgrade. If you plan to indulge, consider purchasing a drinks package that will work for you, before your cruise, for great savings. 8. Stay connected (if you must!) Wi-Fi isn't free, so if staying online is important, purchase an Internet package in advance for the best rates (up to 20% savings). Otherwise, embrace the digital detox and enjoy the ocean breeze. 9. Catch Broadway-style shows and nightlife for free. MSC Cruises offers world-class entertainment – live performances, comedy shows and even thrilling casinos – all included in your cruise fare. No extra ticket required! 10. Embrace the fun – day and night. From water parks to arcades, mini golf to shuffleboard, there's never a dull moment. Many activities are free, while some require a Fun Pass—so plan accordingly. Shore excursions: Making the most of every port 11. Plan ahead for the best excursions. Booking shore excursions in advance guarantees availability and better pricing. Whether it's snorkelling in turquoise waters or exploring historical ruins, don't miss out! 12. Dress comfortably for exploration. Comfortable walking shoes, sun protection and a small backpack for essentials will keep you prepared for any adventure ashore. Extra insider tips to elevate your cruise 13. Check the daily cruise planner. Your daily planner (delivered to your cabin or available on the MSC app) highlights scheduled activities, entertainment and dining specials – don't miss out on exclusive events! 14. Budget for extras but stick to a plan. While plenty is included, extras – like spa treatments, tickets purchased in themed gaming venues, Wi-Fi and specialty dining – can add up. Set a budget to avoid surprises on your final bill. 15. Relax and enjoy every moment. Cruises are designed for enjoyment—whether that means lounging by the pool, indulging in gourmet meals, or dancing under the stars. Knowing what's included, what you may want to plan ahead for and how to get the most out of every moment will make your cruise one to remember. Encounter flamingos in their natural habitat, a serene highlight of your shore excursion adventure Image: Supplied Bon voyage! Take this opportunity and plan for your festive holiday, and book a Christmas or New Year's cruise onboard MSC Opera. Choose between 5-nights of endless relaxation and family time, with visits to the white sandy beaches in Portuguese Island and Pomene in Mozambique or 14-nights and a range of great activities to fill your days including visits to Nosy Be, Port Louis and La Possession. With these essential cruise tips, you'll be a little more ready for your incredible journey at sea. Click through to the MSC Cruises website to learn more about cruising, savings deals, entertainment onboard and the MSC Opera 2025-2026 itinerary.
Extra.ie
05-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Extra.ie
Reeling in the years -- The jig certainly isn't up as Riverdance celebrates three legendary decades
From a stunning interval act during Eurovision to a global phenomenon… Riverdance is celebrating a remarkable 30 years on the road tonight. As soon as the short–but–thrilling first-ever performance finished in the Point Depot in 1994, thousands in the audience jumped to their feet and erupted into ecstatic applause. The original producer, John McColgan, has recalled that he was in tears at the reception the seven-minute 'interlude' received and knew he had to give Riverdance its own Broadway-style show. Director of Riverdance John McColgan. Pic: SAM BOAL/Collins Photos. Just a year later, Riverdance was on the road and has been ever since, entertaining millions around the globe and bringing them a taste and flavour of the rich Irish culture that spawned it. In its 30 years on the road, the show has seen many romances blossom among cast members, producing 70 marriages and 130 babies. Riverdance 30 – The New Generation has kicked off a three-month stint at the Gaiety Theatre in Dublin, running until September 7. Original Riverdance. Pic: File A sign of its longevity is the fact that the entire cast is now younger than the show itself. Daragh Roddy, the son of a former Riverdance lead, Pat Roddy, is dancing in the show's Dublin debut. The show made careers of its original leads: US-born dancers Michael Flatley, 66, and Jean Butler, 54, both went on to individual global stardom. Overseeing rehearsals for the new show was McColgan, now 80, who produced the original performance with his wife, Moya Doherty, 68. Current Lead Riverdance dancers Amy Mae Dolan and Fergus Fitzpatrick on stage with Director of Riverdance John McColgan and (L) Former dancer Susan Ginnety and (R) Breandán De Gallaí. Pic: SAM BOAL/Collins Photos. He recalled: 'The Point Theatre: when Riverdance finished, 4,000 people jumped to their feet in unison, but I was in tears, I knew something special had happened.' A year later, McColgan had turned the interval act into a two-hour stage show, which opened in Dublin on February 9, 1995. Talking about the transformation, he said: 'I was a big fan of the Broadway musical, and I wanted to take Irish dance and the very strait-laced way it had been performed. We change it and polish it all the time. Former Riverdance dancer Pat with his son Darragh (20). Pic: SAM BOAL/Collins Photos. 'The fundamental show is the same, but you get new energy every time there is a new cast. They're like young athletes now, and they take it very, very seriously.' Anna Mai Fitzpatrick, who dances in the show with her brother Fergus, grew up in Meath thinking she wanted to be in Riverdance. She said: 'We absolutely feel the responsibility and we take that challenge completely positively and we see it more as an honour rather than a heavy weight. Riverdance was here before either of us were born.' Fergus described leading Riverdance along with his sister as a 'dream come true', adding: 'It's even more special to be able to have family on the road with you when you're traveling, getting to do what you love, getting to see these amazing places while taking care of the iconic show.' While Sheena McMorrow is too young at 17 to join the full cast, she took part in last night's special performance at the Gaiety, following in the dance steps of her parents, Fran and Jonathan McMorrow, both former Riverdance members. 'My parents met in Riverdance, and that just made it so clear Irish dancing was going to be a big part of my life,' she said. Dad Jonathan said: 'It's fabulous for her to be able to do this. She's looked forward to this day for a very, very long time.' Tickets for the Gaiety shows are priced from €36.55 to €61.10.
Hindustan Times
03-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Hindustan Times
Shazahn Padamsee- Ashish Kanakia wedding: Bride-to-be to host a Broadway-inspired evening during pre-wedding festivities
Actor Shazahn Padamsee is all set to tie the knot with businessman Ashish Kanakia on June 5, and while their pre-wedding festivities are going to have traditional rituals like the haldi and sangeet, a source close to the couple reveals that they are planning a Broadway-inspired evening for one of their pre-wedding celebration. 'This celebration draws inspiration from Shazahn's father, the late Padma Shri Alyque Padamsee, and her family's legacy in Indian theatre. The event will be not just be a party, but a live musical celebration, paying a homage to theatre, and featuring retro performances in full Broadway-style,' the source shares, adding that the evening is being curated by Shazahn herself, in collaboration with her sister, producer Raell Padamsee, theatre director Quasar, and her mother. The source further informs that their extended theatre family, some close friends and veteran artists from the stage, will be performing at the night. After tying the knot on June 5, Shazahn and Ashish will also host a grand wedding reception in Mumbai for their industry friends and family. Shazahn and Ashish's love story began through a mutual friend who introduced them. While it took its sweet time, the couple began dating soon and got engaged in November 2024. Now they are set to get married on June 5. The actor is known for her roles in films like Rocket Singh: Salesman of The Year, Dil Toh Baccha Hai Ji and Housefull 2. She was recently seen in Neil Nitin Mukesh and Jacqueline Fernadez-starrer web series Hai Junoon. As for Ashish, he is the CEO of MovieMax Cinemas and Director at Kanakia Group.
Yahoo
28-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Changes coming to downtown Texarkana in the name of pedestrian safety
TEXARKANA, Ark. (KTAL/KMSS) — One popular destination for summer fun is downtown Texarkana's Entertainment District, and the city is taking steps to ensure people can enjoy themselves while staying safe. Juneteenth Jam to celebrate Juneteenth with storytelling, dance The Texarkana, Arkansas Police Department says specific intersections will be blocked off Friday and Saturday evenings through the summer months in an effort to protect pedestrians. Barricades will be placed along Broad St at Hazel St, Walnut St, and Wood St. They are also stepping up efforts to enforce the specific ordinances in place at the district year-round. Muses Creative Artistry Project presents Broadway-style performance with classic Disney songs 'We will be seeing patrol officers downtown more often to make sure that everybody is abiding by the entertainment district rules and regulations, such as no drinking in or on the vehicles, no glass bottles, maintaining the noise ordinances, the curfew for the minors,' says Kristen Schultz with TAPD. Entertainment district hours run from 11 a.m. to 2 a.m. Monday through Saturday and until midnight on Sunday. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
