April 28, 2008

Branson Star Theater 3750 West Hwy 76 (turn by Olive Garden parking lot)

8:00 P.M. Tuesday – Saturday

(Handicap parking in front of theater on level lot)

With every visit to Branson there is something new for you to enjoy.  This year is no exception and you’re in for a real treat.  During your next stay be sure and see “Breaking Up Is Hard To Do.”  This is a comedy-musical play set in the Catskills, Labor Day Weekend 1960, at Esther’s Paradise Lodge.  Each cast member is a unique personality with remarkable talent.  There are far too many credits to list all of them here so I’ll just say they are not strangers to the stage and musical theater.

The Cast:
Gavin Reign, a native of New York (national tour of “Rent”), was brought here for the part of Del Delmonaco.  Del is the cabana boy turned singer at Esther’s Paradise.  He considers himself gorgeous and talented.  Okay, he is both.  Gavin plays the part flawlessly.  Did I swoon?  Oh, yes.

Heather Peterson, well known Branson singer moved here from TX (Lost in the 50’s and Red, Hot and Blue), is Marge.  Poor Marge, devastated after being left at the alter.  Heather plays this part with a sadness and vulnerability that makes you want to give her a much needed hug.

Emily Hope Jernigan, from NC, moved to Branson last year (Lost in the 50’s with The Platter’s), as Lois, the ditzy blonde and Marge’s best friend.  Lois takes Marge to the Catskill’s for the weekend to get over Leonard.  Lois has some very funny “zingers” that make you wonder if you heard her right!  You did!  Emily’s vocals and acting ability are first-rate.  I can still hear her singing “Where the Boy’s Are.”  Beautiful!

Carlos Avilas, originally from Los Angeles (Off-Broadway’s “A Kid’s Life”), is Gabe, Del’s cousin and unappreciated gopher.  Gabe is the adorable little guy who will do everything asked of him and never complain.  My favorite line, “I’m okay.”  Carlos sings tenor with the clarity essential for high-quality musical theater. 

Lisa Hickerson, from TX, resides in Branson (Shoji Tabuchi, Andy Williams…), is the lovable, no-nonsense, Esther, the widow who owns Esther’s Paradise.  Lisa sparkles on stage and charms us with her portrayal of Esther.  She is both funny and tender in the relationship she has with employees and guests.  Well done!!

Tim Coday, has lived in Branson since 1996 (The Promise, Wayne Newton, Shoji Tabuchi), and has the part of Harvey, emcee/host of the show at Esther’s Paradise.  You will absolutely love this guy.  Fine acting, fabulous singing, he brings it all to the stage.

Del-tonics, the band:
Bravo to the band.  The sound and back-up vocals are complimentary and not overwhelming.  The cues are perfect.  I was truly impressed by these professionals:  Roger Butterley (guitar and conductor); Josh Endlich (drums); Rod Phillips (keyboard); Ray Marlar (bass guitar).

Photography of any kind is prohibited.  With that in mind I want to send a special “thank you” to Jeff Hurst, stage manager, for permission to share these pictures with our Branson Critic readers only.

Velva Cort, Editor

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Velva Cort, Editor