**Short answer: A Bronx Tale Musical is a Broadway show based on the 1989 play and 1993 film of the same name. The story follows a young boy named Calogero growing up in the Bronx, navigating his relationships with his father and local mob boss Sonny. The musical features music by Alan Menken and lyrics by Glenn Slater, and premiered on Broadway in 2016.**
A Bronx Tale Musical Step by Step: From Page to Stage
The A Bronx Tale Musical is a true masterpiece of stagecraft, bringing to life the classic tale of a young boy growing up in the rough and tumble streets of the Bronx. With its captivating storyline, vibrant characters, and catchy tunes that transport you back to the 1960s, this musical has emerged as one of Broadway’s biggest hits.
But what exactly goes into taking such an iconic story and turning it into a fully-realized theatrical experience? Let’s take a step-by-step look at how this incredible show made its way from page to stage:
STEP ONE: THE SCRIPT
The first step in any good theater production is developing the script. A Bronx Tale was initially written by Chazz Palminteri in 1989 as an autobiographical one-man off-Broadway play detailing his own childhood experiences in the Belmont neighborhood of the Bronx. Over time, however, he adapted it into a screenplay for Robert De Niro’s directorial debut film adaptation.
Eventually, under direction by Jerry Zaks with music composed by Alan Menken (who has won Oscars for his work on Disney films like Beauty & The Beast) – Palminteri himself worked alongside other writers to transform that screenplay into an exciting new script suitable for live performance.
Together they carefully crafted dialogue that would honor both De Niro’s original vision while adapting some parts so perfectly fit into theater setting – then delving deeper than ever before characteristically exploring various crucial themes . This included examining vital aspects like fatherhood & family dynamics; racial tensions cut through various communities; love triangles laced with betrayal leaving viewers electrified among others.
STEP TWO: THE MUSIC
To accompany these poignant lyrics and bring them fully alive, composer Alan Menken gifted audiences with truly memorable melodies ingrained deeply within your consciousness long after closing curtains fall! While known primarily for writing scores found across famed Disney animated classics including Little Mermaid or Aladdin – each song he penned here for A Bronx Tale Musical showcased his versatility as musician with talent that transcends any one medium!
With a thrilling range of musical styles such as doo-wop, R&B and Motown along with nostalgic crooner ballads – the score manages to uniquely transcend genre labeling while staying absolutely focused on extracting pure substance & emotion from its characters.
STEP THREE: CASTING
A Broadway show like this needs immensely talented actors ready take viewers right into heart of late 1960’s New York City. The casting team had their work cut out to find players who could embody all essential elements depicted in script. Roles spanning coming-of-age Calogero (the protagonist), Sonny LoSpecchio (a powerful mafia power player) and other various gang-like members calling ‘emorialized streets’ home needed performers capable giving enthralling performances infusing humor, drama & song by seamlessly melding together several dramatic facilitator roles.
Fortunately, they found wider ranging diverse cast appreciative taking audience bouncing up from their seats night after night! With Tony nominated Nick Cordero playing “Sonny,” he was both menacingly memorable yet lovable so much that at times it’s hard deciding whether or not to cheer for him – Javier Munoz portraying adult Calogero sang deftly having stood alongside Lin-Manuel Miranda in the original days Hamilton latest addition Ariana DeBose dynamically filled Jane’s shoes character quickly making her own unique place in audiences’ hearts.
STEP FOUR: THE SET DESIGN AND STAGING
Of course, these complex set pieces would be nothing without flawless directing by Robert de Niro himself among others keeping pace utilizing captivating choreography assigned given Meghan Lynch-McKay. Much credit is due the lighting designers bringing large cast ensembles to focus using precisely timed light cues both highlighting crucial moments showcasing equally important supporting scenes involved behind main action onstage.
Set design further complemented dynamic story components promising a visual feast fit for even the most demanding theater goers. The streets and neighborhoods of the Bronx are brought to life with full sensory immersion complete with graffiti-decorated walls, espresso-stained brick facades & delicate architectural detailing typically associated in this specific region.
STEP FIVE: THE AUDIENCE EXPERIENCE
With each performance scheduled specifically for an interactive over two hour thrill-ride – A Bronx Tale Musical stands proud as a testament by demonstrating what happens when talented theatrical professionals pour their hearts into a production from start till end! It continues topping charts drawing sold out crowds on Broadway since premiering in 2016 while equally successfully completing national tours all across United States putting smile every patron’s face getting chance partake such a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
A classic story given new lease at modern time thanks to genius team turning simple script into fast-paced song-filled show that never disappoints elevating genre as whole captivating audiences world-wide whisked off feet transported straight back New York City circa late 1960s throughout duration intermission-less runtime showcasing pure love celebrating culture breaking boundaries triumphantly earning praise many ways forever crushing barriers between different artistic formats shining bright beacon hope renewal creativity rich
A Bronx Tale Musical FAQ: Everything You Need to Know Before Attending the Show
Have you ever been to a Broadway musical before? If not, attending A Bronx Tale might be the perfect place for you to start. But since it’s your first show, or even if it isn’t, there are a few things that would be helpful to know before seeing this extraordinary performance.
Here are some frequently asked questions that should guide and excite you as you prepare for an unforgettable night:
What is A Bronx Tale?
A Bronx Tale tells the story of Calogero Anello, who grows up in Belmont during the 60s when Italian-Americans formed their own neighborhoods around New York City. He has two influential figures in his life; his father Lorenzo and the local mobster Sonny. As Calogero discovers which path he will follow – good or evil – audiences follow every moment with bated breath.
Where is it playing?
This hit musical is currently being staged at Longacre Theatre- 220 W 48th St, NY behind David Henry Hwang Theatre.
Who wrote A Bronx Tale book?
The book was written by Chazz Palminteri – renowned actor famous for his note-worthy performances both on stage and screen appearances had penned down a real tale inspired from his childhood where he grew up between Mafian Kingpins of his urban neighborhood in The Bronx.
Who directed and choreographed it?
Director Robert De Niro & Jerry Zaks directs while Sergio Trujillo handles all choreographic duties ensuring audience never lose interest throughout each piece of action performed on-stage!
How long does it last?
The show lasts approximately 2 hours including one interval break – plenty enough time to sit back, relax & experience La Dolce Vita without any rush!
Is there an age limit for attending A Bronx Tale?’
No official age limitations have been listed however parents/guardians may want to take into consideration mature themes addressed especially related to Gang Violence/ organized crimes depicted during different scenes.This can certainly make it more of an adult-oriented production, but if careful consideration can be taken before coming to the show with children then age is no issue.
What language does it use?
The entire musical is in English. But being one that depicts Italian- American origin stories and culture, you should expect some periodic sprinkles & references made to Italian phrases & idioms used which contribute to the depth of emotions portrayed by actors on-stage.
Who are the cast members?
A Bronx Tale incorporates both veteran & renowned acting professionals as well as new names eager for their breakout moments into spotlight -so prepare yourself for these iconic faces Cast includes Adam Kaplan (playing Calogero), Tony-award winner Nick Cordero portraying Sonny along with Richard H Blake who plays Lorenzo, Calogero’s dad. Maxxiuliano Von Georrgi rounds off this ensemble filled series bringing his talents both as a musician/performer.
Is there any audience interaction or participation required?
Nope – You can sit back and watch A Bronx Tale fully from beginning right up to its explosive ending provided within tickets premises alone without disturbing anyone around you! The story seamlessly flows crescendoing at certain periods pulling audiences along then finally reaches grand finale leaving room absolutely no dull Moments!
Still unsure about whether attending A Bronx Tale Musical is worth your time? Allow us to convince you – there’s nothing quite like a good Broadway show! This magnifying glass portrayal of street-level events illuminated during those turbulant times opens avenues through which empathy towards human vulnerability / resilience fuelled by insitance leads you feel every moment played out . From catchy numbers listened too via audio systems overhead providing perfect rhythm accompanying singers voices mixed down just right so quality continues shining throughout performance even when Silence envelops auditorium because concert ends temporarily until next stirring performance segment starts playing we guarantee owning front-row seats will surely influence positive feelings whilst encouraging acceptance among wider Arts community so grab hold now while ticket availability lasts – you won’t regret it!
Top 5 Facts About A Bronx Tale Musical That Will Make You Want to See It ASAP
If you’re a fan of classic storytelling set to sweeping Broadway tunes, then A Bronx Tale may just be the musical for you. Based on the iconic 1993 movie directed by Robert De Niro and starring Chazz Palminteri, this production has been bringing audiences to their feet since it first premiered in New York City in 2016. Here are five compelling reasons why you should hurry up and see this show as soon as possible.
1. It’s an authentic slice of New York City history.
Set in the rough-and-tumble world of organized crime during the 1960s and ’70s, A Bronx Tale explores traditional themes like loyalty, morality, family dynamics, class differences – all against the gritty backdrop of one of America’s most iconic cities. The story centers around Calogero Anello (nicknamed “C” by his friends), a young boy who witnesses a murder committed by Sonny LoSpecchio, a mobster from his neighborhood. C wrestles with his conscience as he becomes increasingly embroiled in Sonny’s dangerous world – leading ultimately to decisions that will impact him forever.
2. Its unforgettable score is brought to life by legendary collaborators.
Two titans of American music theater worked on A Bronx Tale: Alan Menken and Glenn Slater. Menken is responsible for some of Disney’s greatest hits – including Beauty and the Beast and Aladdin – while Slater penned lyrics for gems like School Of Rock -The Musical and Sister Act( Adaptation). Together they’ve crafted an epic soundtrack full of catchy hooks (“I Like It”), poignant ballads (“Look To Your Heart”), barn-burners (“Roll ‘Em On”) along with musically inventive ensemble numbers underpinning every minute detail.
3.It boasts outstanding performances across-the-board
From top-to-bottom, A Bronx Tale features great performers who showcase their skills throughout its run-time.’ Nick Fradiani’ brings a huge charisma and charm to his role as C, persuading us instantly that he’s the same young boy we see grow and mature over several years .Josh Tower brings an extra layer of complexity to Sonny LoSpecchio playing him with great nuance. Brianna-Marie Bell captures our hearts as Jane, a girl smitten by our hero; she explodes onstage each time in each song.
4. It has stunning production design.
Steering away from hyperrealism often associated with productions set in rapidly changing period settings A Bronx Tale is stylized with bold colors permeating the numerous sets on display.. The warm oranges of Anello household, greys and blacks avoiding gloomy tinges for side street scenes. Cozy vintage cars chicly zip along perfectly positioned staging pieces giving the audience just enough interjections without distracting from central action.
5.It blends humor & heartbreak like no other musical before it.
The movie might be thought of by some millennials simply as “that gangster flick,” but serious fans know that Palminteri’s story is filled with uproarious comedy amidst its darker themes.The musical follows suit – think Goodfellas meets La La Land- moments when actors are belting out ballads full throttle can transition effortlessly into sharply observed comic one-liners/moments . Equal parts touching romance (“Out Of Your Head”) alongside tense, violent altercations(Hurt Someone) make sure theatre-goers can switch their emotions moment-to-moment.
All this to say: you needn’t be a fanatical theatergoer or New York aficionado to appreciate A Bronx Tale Musical. Its layers upon layers create something truly special; don’t miss your chance to experience it firsthand while still accessible!
