Theater Review: Beef and Boards: ELF the Musical

Beef and Boards Dinner Theatre continues on the path toward reinventing itself by switching its typical variety-style holiday production with a modern holiday classic: ELF the Musical.

The musical (and well known film, ELF (2003), starring Will Ferrell, Bob Newhart and Zooey Deschanel), retraces the life of an orphan human named Buddy, portrayed brilliantly by Dan Bob Higgins, who is raised by elves at the North Pole.

Walter Hobbs, Buddy's birth father, is given top-notch treatment as an insensitive and stressed out corporate executive by Mark Epperson.

Bringing an (at first) subdued-but-increasing exuberance match to the holiday-happy personality of Higgins' Buddy, is Lanene Charters as Hobb's personal secretary Deb. She and the elf are kindred spirits and Charters shines as Buddy allows her to show Christmas spirit once again. Jonathan Fluck is spectacular in his explosive, and too short, appearances as Hobbs' angry boss Mr. Greenway.

Love interest Jovie, a young woman who has stopped believing in anything happy or Christmas-y, is played by Emily Grace Tucker. Tucker knocks it out of the ballpark with her solo, "Never Fall in Love."

A few differences from film to stage include Santa (Doug  E. Stark), rather than the top elf, shares Buddy's tale. Also ... there isn't an angry elf racing across the boardroom table to throttle Buddy. Disappointing certainly, however Peter Dinklage is committed elsewhere these days (Game of Thrones, anyone?).

This zany and delightful production runs through December 31 at the north-side venue. However, if you plan on getting a table, buy tickets immediately. At last check there are verrrry few tickets left.

There's definitely a transformation this season at B&B. New talent, new shows and a new direction aimed at retaining its core audience while attracting the younger demographic. 
Check out the 2019 season lineup by clicking here.

Bottom Line: Beef and Boards' Elf: The Musical is the perfect family show to capture the holiday spirit. Don't miss it.

Images: JulieCurryPhotography.com

Elizabeth J. Musgrave is a fine-living, travel, features, food and wine writer, travel and food photographer, performing arts, wine and restaurant critic. She also is a radio and television guest and host. Follow her on Twitter @GottaGo, LinkedIn and Facebook.

Broadway in Indianapolis: 2017-2018 Season

Flying children, a boy with his tongue frozen to poles, and a green-faced young girl are just a few of the reasons Broadway in Indianapolis' 2017 - 2018 season is interesting this year.

Returning for a tour is Rent, new shows are a majority of the list, and the musical numbers are well known in more than one show.

Below is the schedule, with ticket information following.

Broadway in Indianapolis

2017-2018 SEASON SHOWS

Finding Neverland

October 17-22, 2017

Clowes Memorial Hall

Finding Neverland tells the incredible

story behind one of the world’s most beloved characters: Peter Pan. Playwright J.M.

Barriestruggles to find inspiration until he meets four young brothers and their beautiful

widowed mother. Spellbound by the boys’ enchanting make-believe adventures, he sets out to write a play that will astound London theatergoers. 

A Christmas Story, The Musical

November 28-December 3, 2017

Old National Centre

A Christmas Story, The Musical chronicles young and bespectacled Ralphie Parker as he

schemes his way toward the holiday gift of his dreams, an official Red Ryder® Carbine-Action

200-Shot Range Model Air Rifle (“You’ll shoot your eye out kid!”).

Beautiful

The Carole King Musical

January 30-February 4, 2018

Clowes Memorial Hall

Long before she was Carole King, chart-topping music legend, she was Carol Klein, Brooklyn girl

with passion and chutzpah. She fought her way into the record business as a teenager and, by

the time she reached her twenties, had the husband of her dreams and a flourishing career

writing hits for the biggest acts in rock ‘n’ roll. It wasn’t until her personal life began to crack

that she finally managed to find her true voice. Beautiful tells the inspiring true story of King’s remarkable rise to stardom, from being part of a hit songwriting team to becoming one of the most successful solo acts in pop music history.

Les Misérables

March 13-18, 2018

Old National Centre

Set against the backdrop of 19th-century France, Les Misérables tells an enthralling story

of broken dreams and unrequited love, passion, sacrifice and redemption – a timeless testament

to the survival of the human spirit. Seen by more

than 70 million people in 44 countries and in 22 languages around the globe, Les Misérables is still the world’s most popular musical, breaking box office records everywhere in its 32nd year.

RENT 20th Anniversary Tour

June 12-17, 2018

Clowes Memorial Hall

In 1996, an original rock musical by a little-known composer opened on Broadway... and forever

changed the landscape of American theatre. Two decades later, Jonathan Larson’s Rent

continues to speak loudly and defiantly to audiences across generations and all over the

world. And now, this Pulitzer Prize and Tony Award®-winning masterpiece returns to the stage

in a vibrant 20th anniversary touring production. A re-imagining of Puccini's La Bohème, RENT

follows an unforgettable year in the lives of seven artists struggling to follow their

dreams without selling out. With its inspiring message of joy and hope in the face of fear,

this timeless celebration of friendship and creativity reminds us to measure our lives with love.

Wicked

April 25-May 13, 2018

*Old National Centre

Wicked, the Broadway sensation, looks at what happened in the Land of Oz...but from a

different angle. Long before Dorothy arrives, there is another young woman, born with

emerald-green skin—smart, fiery, misunderstood and possessing an extraordinary talent. When

she meets a bubbly blonde who is exceptionally popular, their initial rivalry turns into the

unlikeliest of friendships...until the world calls one “good,” and the other one “wicked.”

GROUP SALES AND SINGLE TICKETS

Group sales information is now available for all shows. Reservations may be made by calling

Group Sales Manager, Chris Schneider, at 317-632-7469 x 103 or email at

Chris.Schneider@BroadwayAcrossAmerica.com. For more information visit

BroadwayInIndianapolis.com

Tickets for individual shows typically go on sale to the general

public 4-6 weeks prior to the opening of the show.

Elizabeth J. Musgrave is a travel, features, food and wine writer, travel and food photographer, and performing arts and restaurant critic. Follow her on Twitter @GottaGo, LinkedIn and Facebook.

Ticket Giveaway: Broadway in Indianapolis' Sound of Music

Ben Davis as Captain Georg von Trapp

Sound of Music is an American classic providing childhood memories for millions of children nationwide. Thanks to Broadway in Indianapolis, I am giving away two tickets to opening night, Tuesday, January 10, 2017. The show (which is looking to be a sell out all nights) will be performed at Old National Centre.

Check back to this site for a full review on Indiana native Ben Davis as Captain Georg von Trapp, and the entire cast.

HOW TO WIN

To win, simply share this link on your FB page and state your favorite part of Sound of Music. It could be a character, a song, or even a memory. I will check Sunday night at 9 p.m. on all who have shared the link. Whoever generates the most shares of the link from their FB page, WINS!

I will contact you via FB message with details on receiving your tickets.

Ready, Set, Share ~

Images: Matthew Murphy
Elizabeth J. Musgrave writes two magazine food and wine columns: Destination Dining and White Linen & Corks,and is a travel, features, food and wine writer, travel and food photographer, and performing arts and restaurant critic. Catch her as the Travel & Leisure Adviser on FOX59 Morning News Show. She also is a speaker, consultant and trainer for hospitality, travel and luxury businesses, P.R., and tourism groups, as well as a radio and television guest and host. Follow her on Twitter @GottaGo, LinkedIn and Facebook.

Indiana Historical Society (IHS) Concerts on the Canal 2016 Lineup

Thursday nights spent lounging along the canal in Downtown Indianapolis is a favorite among urbanites. A bottle (or two) of wine, nibblers and a blanket is all that is required for those wishing to enjoy the evening. The Concerts on the Canal series is hosted by the Indiana Historical Society throughout the summer.

This summer's concerts run from May 26 through July 28 with the new Free Admission Thursdays, which includes extended hours in the venue on concert dates. 

Musical entertainment begins at 6 p.m. on concert Thursdays and will feature a variety of styles from jazz, blues and swing to rock, R&B and pop favorites.

Free seating is available on the grassy knoll, which is across the canal from the History Center. Guests can also purchase seating on the History Center's Kruse Family Stardust Terrace in tables of eight ($50/$40 IHS members) or tables of four ($40/$30 IHS members), and single-seats at the community table ($10/$8 for IHS members).

No pets or smoking are allowed on the Terrace.

Patio visitors are welcome to bring their own food and non-alcoholic beverages. All alcohol must be purchased on-site, and a cash bar will be offered. Guests can also purchase food from Hoaglin To Go, available through the History Center's Stardust Terrace Café and at an outdoor grill.

The History Center will offer free admission and extended hours on concert dates, until 8 p.m. Concertgoers are encouraged to take full advantage of access to the Indiana Experience, as well as a weekly selection of IHS's traveling exhibits. Exhibits explore topics such as Indiana disasters, the state's rich automotive past, the lives of Hoosiers during Prohibition and more.

In addition, IHS is making it possible for guests to enjoy a free day of fun and music leading up to the city's 4th of July fireworks. On Monday, July 4, the History Center will be open from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m., with free admission. From 5 - 9:30 p.m., IHS will offer a special patriotic concert.

The Eugene and Marilyn Glick Indiana History Center, home of IHS and the Indiana Experience, is located at 450 W. Ohio St., downtown along the canal.

Membership, information and resources: (317) 232-1882 or IndianaHistory.org.

Concerts on the Canal 2016

May 26

Concert: The Cool City Band, featuring Shannon Forsell, Jimmy Guilford and Laney Wilson

(Swingin' music from the lounge era)

Traveling Exhibition: One Shot: The WWII Photography of John A. Bushemi

June 2

Concert: Flying Toasters (High energy dance favorites)

Traveling Exhibition: Hoosiers and Their Hooch: Perspectives on Prohibition

June 9

Concert: Actors Theatre of Indiana (Cole Porter Birthday Celebration)

Traveling Exhibition: A Visual Journey: From AIDS to Marriage Equality by Mark A. Lee

June 16

Concert: Indy Nile (Eclectic mix of classic rock, funk and blues)

Traveling Exhibition: The Great War: From Ration Lines to the Front Lines

June 23

Concert: The Funk Quarter (New Orleans Rhythm and Blues)

Traveling Exhibition: Steamboats a Comin' The Legacy of the New Orleans

June 30

Concert: Everett Greene (Love songs and jazz standards)

Traveling Exhibition: Auto Indiana

July 4

Concert: Indianapolis Municipal Band (5 to 6 p.m.) (Patriotic tunes and marches)

The Tad Robinson Band (7:30 to 9:30 p.m.) (Americana, soul and roots)

Traveling Exhibition: Faces in the Crowd: Indiana and the Political Process

July 7

Concert: Greta Speaks (Rock and pop classics)

Traveling Exhibition: Who is a Hoosier?

July 14

Concert: Brenda Williams (Classic R&B hits from the '60s and '70s)

Traveling Exhibition: The Golden Age: Indiana Literature (1880-1920)

July 21

Concert: IUPUI: David Mannell featuring Laura Hammer-Erhart, Becky Barton and Heather Hinton

(Bicentennial tribute and nostalgic favorites)

Traveling Exhibition: Auto Indiana

July 28

Concert: The Bishops (Party songs you love to dance to)

Traveling Exhibition: Indiana Disasters

Elizabeth J. Musgrave writes two magazine food and wine columns: Destination Dining and White Linen & Corks,and is a travel, features, food and wine writer, travel and food photographer, and performing arts and restaurant critic. Catch her as the Travel & Leisure Adviser on FOX59 Morning News Show. She also is a speaker, consultant and trainer for hospitality, travel and luxury businesses, P.R., and tourism groups, as well as a radio and television guest and host. Follow her on Twitter @GottaGo, LinkedIn and Facebook.

Theater Review: Actors Theatre of Indiana: Sweeney Todd

Sweeney Todd (Don Farrell) and Mrs. Lovett (Judy Fitzgerald)

Actors Theatre of Indiana, Carmel, opened the much-anticipated Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street production this weekend.

Familiar to fans of Stephen Sondheim, musicals and Broadway hits; the story became even more well known with the 2007 hit film Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street starring Johnny Depp. As good as the movie is, there are some stories which are best to experience via live theater ~ this is one of those shows.

Don Farrell as Sweeney Todd

Don Farrell takes on the title role of Sweeney Todd, in the black comedy with a sensationally sinister performance. Keeping the murderous role from becoming simply a serial killer on the loose, Farrell brings a vulnerable side of his character to light during, "The Barber and His Wife," allowing the audience to witness the happier youthful version of himself prior to losing his wife and daughter to the corrupt local Judge Turpin (Paul Nicely).

John Vessels as Adolfo Pirelli

Accompanying Todd in his razor-sharp removal of loathsome people is Mrs Lovett, played magnificently by Judy Fitzgerald.  Fitzgerald portrays the pie-making enabler with absolute abandon, sharing her contagious delight in the creative solution of her floundering meat pie cafe and Todd's need to slit throats of unworthy folks.

John Vessels is a pure delight as Adolpho Pirelli, the self-proclaimed, "King of Barbers," creating a larger-than-life caricature with his comedic talents. Vessels proves his vocal talent, as well, in the first victim's solo, "The Contest."

Caleb Wertz plays Tobias Ragg, abused waif and assistant to Pirelli then Lovett, with a maturity beyond his years. Craig Underwood takes sleazy to a new level with his portrayal of The Beadle.

The entire cast of this production is seamless and smooth, both in working with each other and portraying their individual characters, with all but the two leads portraying more than one character during the two-act play.

Bottom Line: Sweeney Todd is the best show I have reviewed at Actors Theatre of Indiana and is an absolute must-see for anyone in the Indy-metro area.

Tickets: TheCenterforthePerformingArts.org

Costumes: Katie Cowan Sickmeier

Images: Zach Rosing

Elizabeth J. Musgrave writes two magazine food and wine columns: Destination Dining and White Linen & Corks,and is a travel, features, food and wine writer, travel and food photographer, and performing arts and restaurant critic. Catch her as the Travel & Leisure Adviser on FOX59 Morning News Show. She also is a speaker, consultant and trainer for hospitality, travel and luxury businesses, P.R., and tourism groups, as well as a radio and television guest and host. Follow her on Twitter @GottaGo, LinkedIn and Facebook.

Theater Review: Broadway Across America ~ Indianapolis: Wizard of Oz

Broadway in Indianapolis brings flying monkeys, melting witches and a scary forest to the stage at Clowes Memorial Hall, Butler University. Running through Jan. 17, Wizard of Oz opens to a packed audience.

When a live version of a film classic is attempted, it is perfectly natural to feel trepidation. Will it have the original score? What will be chopped out and what will be updated to the point of destroying that which made the show popular in the first place?

Relax. They nailed the song list, characters (minus the Lullaby League), and even have a rainbow or two.

In fact, this is in my Top 10 favorites Broadway Across America productions I have reviewed since 2007. The classic, beloved film is given the respect due it, with a couple extra bonus items inserted for updating purposes.Dorothy Gale, the little girl caught up in a tornado, is performed oh-so-believably by Sarak Lasko. From her vocal talent with the deal breaker song, "Over the Rainbow," to her sweetness with her new travel pals, you just fall for her. (Prepare to get misty-eyed when she bids farewell to those friends.)

Playing the wise-cracking, adorable Scarecrow is Jay McGill. The man of straw, in this modern version, is less about trying to prove his intellect and more like Dory from Pixar's "Finding Nemo" ~ adorable and ditzy.

Morgan Reynolds gets everyone's attention as the Tin Man, the minute he opens his mouth to sing his character's song of woe, "If I Only had a Heart."

A surprise insertion is after intermission when the witch is melted and the enslaved Winkies show their happiness with a killer dance sequence. A great addition to an otherwise quick scene, showing why remakes can be good.

Shani Hadjian cackles as good as Margaret Hamilton as the Wicked Witch of the West. She also brings out her girly side when she sings one of five new tunes, "Red Shoes Blues.

Certainly this production feels as if has been given a "Wicked" once over, in regards to one-liners and asides to the audience. This only serves to enrich the show bringing to a modern end, staving off any chance at a verbatim stale remake of the MGM classic.

Bottom Line: Broadway Across Indianapolis' Wizard of Oz brushes up the film classic endearing it to a whole new generation.

Images: Provided by BroadwayAcrossAmerica.com

Tickets can be found at BroadwayAcrossAmerica.com

 Elizabeth J. Musgrave writes two magazine food and wine columns: Destination Dining and White Linen & Corks,and is a travel, features, food and wine writer, travel and food photographer, and performing arts and restaurant critic. Catch her as the Travel & Leisure Adviser on FOX59 Morning News Show. She also is a speaker, consultant and trainer for hospitality, travel and luxury businesses, P.R., and tourism groups, as well as a radio and television guest and host. Follow her on Twitter @GottaGo, LinkedIn and Facebook.

Indiana Children's Wish Fund: Christmas in the Kitchen 2015 to be held December 11

One of Indianapolis' (if not THE) top foodie fundraisers annually is gearing up for its holiday event: Christmas in the Kitchen at the Hyatt Regency downtown Fri., Dec. 11. There is no fundraiser I look forward to more than this one, folks. It's a chance to dress up, have an insider's look at the chefs' world, and give to a worthy cause, all while sipping fabulous cocktails and wine, and nibbling your way through the smorgasbord of gourmet cuisine. The Indiana Children's Wish Fund receives the money raised through tickets and an extraordinary silent auction.

The event will be overseen by William Hawkins, Hyatt's executive chef. Working for a Washington D.C. congressman, a country club, and as far away as South Africa, the east coast bred chef explains why this opportunity to give to the local children means so much to him.

"As chefs and cooks, it is inherently in our nature to show a great deal of pride in the work that we do and the food that we create, I think that just knowing the good that this dinner does helps to push us to produce the absolutely best over the top function we can create. It's something my cooks begin talking about as far as six or seven months in advance and we look forward to every year.

Normally we work behind the scenes so this banquet is unique in that we open the doors of our kitchen to the public, we set up numerous stations around our kitchen, and we encourage our guests to interact with us, to have a look around and peek behind the curtain at what we do. There’s an awesome feeling of connection their and were extremely proud of using our talents to give back to the community that has done so much for us."

Along with specialty cocktails, wines and after dinner drinks, the menu will include a wide array of gourmet meats, desserts, appetizers and seafood. Just a few items include: babaganoush, blue point oysters on the half shell, ceviche shooters, stout and citrus braised beef short ribs, smoked pork cheek, cornmeal dusted walleye, rosemary and horseradish crusted prime rib, smoked maple and Siracha brined heritage pork loin, charred herb-crusted lamb chops, mint and sorrel chimichurri, egg nog crème brulee, mint cheesecake, coconut cake, candy cane fudge and cranberry bread pudding.

Festive live holiday music by Blair Clark will be provided throughout the evening.

Individual tickets are $150 (admittance into the event with seating) or $100 per person (admittance into the event without seating). They are almost sold out, so get them quickly.

Indiana Children’s Wish Fund, established in 1984, grants wishes to Indiana children, ages 3-18, who suffer from a life-threatening illness. To date, the organization has granted more than 3,200 wishes to Indiana children.

Reservations are limited. To purchase tickets, contact Indiana Children’s Wish Fund at (317) 913-WISH or visit IndyWish.org. 

Elizabeth J. Musgrave is a syndicated fine-living, travel columnist, freelance writer and photographer, and performing arts and restaurant critic for Gotta Go. Read Infused, her spirits, wine & beer lifestyle column, at www.GottaGo.us and www.FoodDigital.com and catch her as Indy’s Personal Lifestyle Adviser on Indy Style, WISH8 (CBS). Gotta Go is published on www.Gottago.us, www.BroadwayWorld.com, and in print. Follow her on Twitter @GottaGo, LinkedIn and Facebook.

Elizabeth J. Musgrave writes two magazine food and wine columns: Destination Dining and White Linen & Corks,and is a travel, features, food and wine writer, travel and food photographer, and performing arts and restaurant critic. Catch her as the Travel & Leisure Adviser on FOX59 Morning News Show. She also is a speaker, consultant and trainer for hospitality, travel and luxury businesses, P.R., and tourism groups, as well as a radio and television guest and host. Follow her on Twitter @GottaGo, LinkedIn and Facebook.

Celebrities and Schedule for Inaugural Wizard World Comic Con Indianapolis, February 13-15, 2015

Look out Indy, looks like GenCon has competition for our affection in the form of Wizard World Comic Con this weekend, beginning Friday and running through Sunday afternoon.

Downtown Indianapolis will, once again, pay host to convention attendees dressed in cool costumes, celebrities of television and films, and those who share a passion for all things comic book, super hero and out of this world. Yes, that includes (be still my heart) William Shatner from Star Trek, Harry Potter series actors, The Hulk, and others from the world of mystic and marvel.

 It is the first trip to Indianapolis for Wizard World, Inc. (OTCBB: WIZD) and the fourth event on the 2015 Wizard World Comic Con calendar.

Although I do not see local comic book artist Gavin Smith on the list, other major comic artists to attend, include: John Tyler Christopher ("Amazing Spider-Man," "Avenger"), Neal Adams("Batman," "X-Men"), James O'Barr ("The Crow") and Michael Golden ("Daredevil," "Hulk"). Wizard World Comic Con Indianapolis, February 13-15, 2015 will be held at the Indianapolis Convention Center.

Others in Artist Alley include: Dr. Travis Langley (“Batman and Psychology: A Dark and Stormy Knight”), Renee Witterstaetter (“She Hulk,” “Avengers”), Troy Brownfield ("Grimm Fairy Tales"), Jeremiah Lambert ("Transformers," "Tonka Truck") and C.S. Marks ("Elfhunter," "Ravenshade").

Full-price Wizard World Comic Con Indianapolis attendees will receive a limited edition exclusive variant cover “The Walking Dead” comic, drawn by a top Wizard World artist. Comics will be issued at registration while supplies last and VIP attendees will receive an additional black & white sketch version.

Celebrities attending include William Shatner (“Star Trek,” “Boston Legal”), Liam McIntyre (“Spartacus”), Katie Cassidy ("Arrow," “Gossip Girl”), James and Oliver Phelps (“Harry Potter”), Michael Cudlitz (“The Walking Dead," "Southland"), WWE® Divas The Bella Twins™, Sonequa Martin-Green (“The Walking Dead,” “Once Upon a Time”), Emily Kinney (“The Walking Dead") and many others.

Wizard World 2015 schedule available at: http://wizd.me/PRSchedule2015.

Wizard World Comic Con events bring together thousands of fans of all ages to celebrate the best in pop-fi, pop culture, movies, graphic novels, cosplay, comics, television, sci-fi, toys, video gaming, gaming, original art, collectibles, contests and more. Wizard World Comic Con Indianapolis show hours are Friday, February 13, 3-8 p.m.; Saturday, February 14, 10 a.m.-7 p.m., Sunday, February 15, 11 a.m.-5 p.m.

2015 Wizard World Indianapolis Comic Con info: http://wizd.me/IndianapolisPR.

About Wizard World

Wizard World (OTCBB: WIZD) produces Comic Cons and pop culture conventions across North America that celebrate the best in pop-fi, pop culture, movies, television, cosplay, comics, graphic novels, toys, video gaming, sci-fi, gaming, original art, collectibles, contests and more. A first-class lineup of topical programming takes place at each event, with celebrity Q&A's, the Wizard World Film Festival, comics-themed sessions, costume contests, movie screenings, evening parties and more. Wizard World also produces socialcon featuring social media stars and will be launching ConTV, a digital media channel in partnership with leading independent content distributor Cinedigm™ (NASDAQ: CIDM).

Elizabeth J. Musgrave writes the fine-living blog Gotta Go, two magazine food and wine columns: Destination Dining and White Linen & Corks, and is a travel, features, food and wine writer, travel and food photographer, and performing arts and restaurant critic. Catch her as the Travel & Leisure Adviser on FOX 59 Morning News Show. She also is a speaker for hospitality, travel and luxury businesses, P.R., and tourism groups, as well as a radio and television guest. Follow her on Twitter @GottaGo, LinkedIn and Facebook.

Rocky Horror Picture Show Goes LIVE at The Athenaeum

Get ready to do the Time Warp again ~

If you are familiar, or even if you have never seen, The Rocky Horror Picture Show, chances are you have heard of it. It's one of those classic cult films your mother wouldn't let you go see as a teenager. Then you got old enough to sneak a showing of the movie at a midnight showing somewhere.

Coming to Indianapolis is the live stage version, produced by Zach Rosing Productions. Hitting the stage once before (in 2012 at Footlite Musicals), this go 'round will be performed at The Athenaeum, which will hold the bigger audience it will surely require.

Although the typical props audience members bring to the screen version ~ toast, rice, newspapers, umbrellas etc. ~ will not be allowed due to respect for the historic building's interior, costumes are enthusiastically encouraged. The late shows (10:30 p.m.) will be designated for the rowdier crowds who enjoy calling out at appropriate intervals and reciting the lines with performers.

I don't know about you, but I would think the rowdy version sounds like the most fun although the earlier show may allow you to actually catch the plot if you are not familiar.

A basic synopsis is two young adults, Brad and Janet, are the "Squares" lost and seeking shelter during a storm on a dark, dark night (naturally). They stumble around until they find the ultimate spoof-type castle, old and creepy. They meet the owner, Dr. Frank N. Furter, a transvestite scientist and Rocky, his "perfect" creation, along with other zany characters.

Among the cast are two names that jump out due to admiring their work in other productions I have reviewed over the years.

Danny Kingston is one of those actors. You know the kind. You never know which character he will morph into next: Evil, clueless, emotionally messed ... the list goes on and on. Never have I reviewed a performance in which Kingston was included that the show didn't receive high marks. Quite the chameleon, Kingston loses himself in each role making him a Destination Actor. Watch for him as a Phantom and Transylvanian in this show. For past reviews of Kingston click here. All I can say is if someone of Kingston's calibre is in the ensemble... imagine the talent of the major role's actors.

Another person of note in the cast is Erin Cohenour as Magenta. You'll remember my posting about Cohenour when I came upon her belting out several songs at my favorite haunt Chef Joseph's one late night (after reviewing a theater performance I often drop in for live music and one of Sara Yager's fab martinis). While I was chatting with a few others at the bar, she took the mic and reminded me so much of one of my favorites ~ the Empress of Soul ~ Gladys Knight, that I shushed everyone around me to enjoy her talent. Her onstage talents are also well documented, as in Mafia Daughter (M.J. Feruzza).

The film can be seen often, and is worth watching. My thoughts, however, are how often does a person get to see it live on stage in Indianapolis? During Halloween season. That makes this a must-see. So go. Watch. Enjoy. You can thank me later ~ 

Thursday - October 23 - 7:30
Friday - October 24 - 7:30 & 10:30

Thursday - October 30 - 7:30

Friday - October 31 - 7:30 & 10:30

Saturday - November 1 - 7:30 & 10:30

Tickets

$20 for the first weekend (10/23-10/24)

$25 for the second weekend (10/30-11/1)

Call (800) 838-3006 or visit RockyHorrorIndy.bpt.me

Cast and Crew

Leads

Magenta: Erin Cohenour

Brad: Brandon Alstott

Janet: Betsy Norton

Riff Raff: Damon Clevenger

Columbia: Nathalie Cruz

Frank 'N' Furter: Scott Keith

Rocky: Logan Moore

Eddie/Dr. Scott: Paige Scott

Narrator: Dave Ruark

Phantoms and Transylvanians 

Matthew Altman

Danielle Carnagua

Kristin Cutler

Nick Heskett

Danny J. Kingston
Samuel McKanney

Megan Medley

Miranda Nehrig

Elizabeth J. Musgrave writes two magazine food and wine columns: Destination Dining and White Linen & Corks,and is a travel, features, food and wine writer, travel and food photographer, and performing arts and restaurant critic. Catch her as the Travel & Leisure Adviser on FOX59 Morning News Show. She also is a speaker, consultant and trainer for hospitality, travel and luxury businesses, P.R., and tourism groups, as well as a radio and television guest and host. Follow her on Twitter @GottaGo, LinkedIn and Facebook.

Colts vs. Jaguars 9th Annual Tailgate Event 2014 for Gleaners Food Bank Nov 23

How about a little spring cleaning for the autumn? How about doing that fall cleaning in your pantry and kitchen cabinets? Perhaps you could find a can (or four) of items you thought the family would like, but didn't. Or maybe you've gone on a diet and won't eat that diet-unfriendly item.

I have an idea.

Tuck them into your Colts hoodie pockets or a grocery bag and swing by this event on the way to the game. Indianapolis home-played Colts vs. Jaguars game on November 23, a food-raising will take place at the 9th Annual Tailgate event sponsored by Goelzer Investment Management for Gleaners Food Bank.

I will be in attendance, sweatshirt on, as they accept canned food from folks wanting to help even a little. With so many of our community hurting, I was pleased to accept this invitation, which will be held 11 am - 1 pm, at the Hurst Bean Field parking lot, located directly across from Lucas Oil Stadium.

To contribute to the food donation to Gleaners, Colts fans are invited to stop by Hurst Bean Field prior to the Colts game to drop off canned food. Drop boxes will be located at the entrance areas of the Hurst Bean Field parking lot as well.

Goelzer will donate skids of beans for the cause to go along with the canned foods. Why beans? They wanted to give food that is high in complex carbohydrates, protein and dietary fiber, helping to satisfy hunger because it is absorbed slowly. Beans are also high in calcium, iron, folate, and potassium.

About Gleaners

Since its inception, Gleaners has distributed over 320 million pounds of food and critical grocery products to more than 250 hunger relief agencies serving needy Hoosiers. In addition to food distribution to hunger relief agencies, Gleaners serves our most vulnerable populations, children and seniors, through specialty programs such as BackSacks: Weekend Food for Kids, School-Based Food Pantries, the Summer Meals for Kids Program and the Commodity Supplemental Food Program. In Gleaners’ 21-county service area, more than 260,000 struggle with hunger and food insecurity—and 107,000 of them are children. To learn more, log onto Gleaners.org.

About Goelzer

For more than 45 years Goelzer Investment Management has been actively involved in the Indianapolis community and with various charities while growing to become one of the leading investment firms in Indiana. As an independent, fee-based firm, Goelzer provides comprehensive investment planning, advice and portfolio management services.

Elizabeth J. Musgrave writes two magazine food and wine columns: Destination Dining and White Linen & Corks,and is a travel, features, food and wine writer, travel and food photographer, and performing arts and restaurant critic. Catch her as the Travel & Leisure Adviser on FOX59 Morning News Show. She also is a speaker, consultant and trainer for hospitality, travel and luxury businesses, P.R., and tourism groups, as well as a radio and television guest and host. Follow her on Twitter @GottaGo, LinkedIn and Facebook.

Theatre on the Square 2014 - 2015 Season Includes Calendar Girls, a Sister and Dr. Ruth

Theatre on the Square
2014 - 2015 Season

Calendar Girls 

September 12 – October 11, 2014

Based on a true story ~ when Annie’s husband John dies of leukemia, she and best friend Chris resolve to raise money for a new settee in the hospital waiting room. They manage to persuade four fellow WI members to pose nude with them for an “alternative” calendar, with a little help from hospital porter and amateur photographer Lawrence. The news of the women’s charitable venture spreads like wildfire, and hordes of press soon descend on the small village of Knapeley in the Yorkshire Dales. The calendar is a success, but Chris and Annie’s friendship is put to the test under the strain of their new-found fame.

Lightning and Jellyfish 

October 17 – November 8, 2014

Set in a rock-and-roll poster shop in the ’80s, Lightning and Jellyfish takes a realistic one-set play and explodes it, taking us into the hearts—and futures—of its characters. It’s about an evening in the life of a young woman on the brink of change–change that she’s trying to convince herself that she’s ready for. Realism vs. romanticism. Youth and frustration. Coming-of-age as a process rather than as moment. It’s about what we forgive in others and ourselves.

Great American Trailer Park Christmas Musical 

November 14 – December 20, 2014

It’s Christmastime in the Armadillo Acres mobile home community, and everyone is filled with visions of kegnog and beer. In this sequel to "The Great American Trailer Park Musical," you’ll meet new residents of north Florida’s premiere mobile home community, including Darlene (the neighborhood Scrooge), her boyfriend Jackie and Rufus (a redneck with a heart of gold). Longtime Armidillo Acres residents Betty, Lin and Pickles are back with voices as big as their hair, but when a freak accident strikes Darlene, everyone’s Christmas cheer will be put to the test.

Late Night Catechism 

January 2 – 24, 2015

Catechism classes are never as much fun – or as hilarious – as when led by Sister. A piece of theater taking audience members back – sometimes nostalgically, sometimes fearfully – to the children they once were. Sister teaches an adult catechism class to a roomful of “students” (the audience). Over the course of the play, Sister goes from benevolent instructor, rewarding the “students” for correct answers with glow-in-the-dark rosaries and laminated saint cards, to authoritative drill sergeant. These abrupt mood swings are bound to strike a resonant chord with everyone who survived the ups and downs of going to school, with an omniscient authoritarian at the helm.

Wolves 

January 30 – February 28, 2015

In Wolves, two men’s folie à deux overtakes their small apartment and spills out onto city streets. When ex-boyfriend Jack brings a strange man home to woodland-obsessed Ben’s apartment, the Narrator can barely keep a lid on the looming violence. This “deconstruction” of the Little Red Riding Hood story is a darkly comic, predatory fairy tale for adults that explores the conflation of sex and fear in modern culture, the comfort of lava lamps, and the dangers of a handy axe.

An Adult Evening of Shel Silverstein

March 6 – April 4, 2015

Welcome to the darkly comic world of Shel Silverstein, a world where nothing is as it seems and where the most innocent conversation can turn menacing in an instant. The 10 imaginative plays in this collection range widely in content, but the style is unmistakable.

Rapture, Blister, Burn 

April 10 – May 2, 2015

After grad school, Catherine and Gwen chose polar opposite paths. Catherine built a career as a rockstar academic, while Gwen built a home with her husband and children. Decades later, unfulfilled in polar opposite ways, each woman covets the other’s life, commencing a dangerous game of musical chairs—the prize being Gwen’s husband. With searing insight and trademark wit, this comedy is an unflinching look at gender politics in the wake of 20th-century feminist ideals.

Becoming Dr. Ruth

May 8 – 30, 2015

Everyone knows Dr. Ruth Westheimer from her career as a pioneering radio and television sex therapist. Few, however, know the incredible journey that preceded it. From fleeing the Nazis in the Kindertransport and joining the Haganah in Jerusalem as a scout and sniper, to her struggles to succeed as a single mother coming to America, Becoming Dr. Ruth is filled with the humor, honesty and life-affirming spirit of Karola Ruth Siegel, the girl who became “Dr. Ruth,” Americaʼs most famous sex therapist.

The Perfect “10” - A Dramatic Comedy with Music

June 5 – July 4, 2015

After a separation from a long-term relationship, a hilarious, self-foiling sexual conquest ensues in hopes of recapturing lost years chasing fantasies of youthful beauty in this semi-autobiographical story loosely inspired by the classic 1979 film starring Dudley Moore, Julie Andrews and Bo Derek.

Love, Loss and What I Wore

(fundraiser for TOTS)

July 10 – August 1, 2015

Written by Nora and Delia Ephron and based on the book by Ilene Beckerman, the show is a scrapbook of stories about unfortunate prom dresses, the traumatic lighting in fitting rooms, high heels, short skirts and the existential state of having nothing to wear. Accessorizing these tales — which are mostly comic but often sad or sentimental too — are the mothers who disapprove, the men who disappear, the sisters who’ve got your back.

Elizabeth J. Musgrave writes two magazine food and wine columns: Destination Dining and White Linen & Corks,and is a travel, features, food and wine writer, travel and food photographer, and performing arts and restaurant critic. Catch her as the Travel & Leisure Adviser on FOX59 Morning News Show. She also is a speaker, consultant and trainer for hospitality, travel and luxury businesses, P.R., and tourism groups, as well as a radio and television guest and host. Follow her on Twitter @GottaGo, LinkedIn and Facebook.

The Cabaret at the Columbia Club Autumn Schedule 2014

Rene' Marie

One of the venues that deserves all the attention it can garner, and more attention and reviews than I (unfortunately) have the time to write, is The Cabaret at The Columbia Club.

The upcoming calendar allows a visit and review for a couple shows in the near future, thankfully, and I truly look forward to one of my favorite places in the world ~ right here in Indianapolis overlooking The Circle. If you haven't been; hold off.

Click here to read a review on Tom Wopat performing at The Cabaret.

Yes, I said wait. Just until the lights are up on the World's Largest Lighted Christmas Tree. At the beginning of the second half of a Cabaret performance, the curtains are opened and the gasp-aloud view will wow you and then ... you will get why I had you wait.

Okay, okay, don't wait.


But... definitely get tickets asap for the always-sold out holiday show as this year will be no different. The fundraiser performance (It is a non profit organization) is always worth the ticket price.

Click here to read a review of Shannon Forsell performing at The Cabaret.

The autumn 2014 schedule includes Broadway, film and television stars, Tony- and Grammy- Award winners, and the much-anticipated annual fundraiser. For reservations and tickets, visit TheCabaret.org.

The Cabaret at the Columbia Club

Autumn Schedule 2014

~ July 25-26 ~ 
A Piece of her Heart-A Tribute to Janis Joplin: Karen Irwin

~ August 8 ~ 
Other People's Stories: Ian Bossung and Eric Wiegand

~ August 23 ~ 

Steve Kazee: Steve Kazee

~ September 12-13 ~

Blossom & Bee: Sara Gazarek

~ Oct. 10-11 ~ 

Breaking Character: Jeremy Jordan

~ October 17-18 ~ 
I Wanna be Evil with Love to Ertha Kitt:  Rene' Marie

~ November 1 ~ 

Kelli O'Hara

~ November 14-15 ~ 

Christine Ebersole: Christine Ebersole

~ December 10-13 ~

A Swingin' Christmas: Jim Caruso, Klea Blackhurst and Billy Stritch

Elizabeth J. Musgrave writes magazine food and wine columns: Destination Dining, White Linen & Corks, and is a travel, features, food and wine writer, travel and food photographer, and performing arts and restaurant critic. Catch her as the Travel & Leisure Adviser on FOX59 Morning News Show. She also works as a consultant for hospitality, travel and tourism businesses and groups, as well as a radio and television guest and host. Follow her on Twitter @GottaGo, LinkedIn and Facebook.

15th annual Vintage Wine Festival 2014

The 15th annual Vintage Indiana Wine and Food Festival is set to take place in Military Park Sat., June 7. Hours of the event are Noon to 6 p.m. These are new hours, so be certain you buy bottles to take home early.

More than 300 wines are available for sampling, buying to enjoy onsite or take home. The first 10, 000 adult-sampler tickets with I.D., receive a commemorative etched wine glass. I get one every year and enjoy collecting them. I do wish they would make each year a different design just for fun.

A children's area with KidZone interactive play equipment will be open. Vendors, food concessions and musical entertainment are available throughout the event.

Music headliners include Jennie Devoe, My Yellow Rickshaw and Zanna-Do!. Although outside coolers, beverages and food are not permitted,visitors are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and picnic blankets.

Participating Wineries

Best Vineyards

Brown County Winery

Buck Creek Winery

Butler Winery & Vineyards

Cedar Creek Winery

Chateau de Pique

Easley Winery

Ertel Cellars Winery

French Lick Winery

Harmony Winery

Huber's Orchard, Winery & Vineyard
Holtkamp Winery    

Madison County Winery

Monkey Hollow Winery

Oliver Winery
Owen Valley WineryRiver City Winery

Satek Winery

Thomas Family Winery

Traders Point Winery

Turtle Run Winery

Whyte Horse Winery

Wildcat Creek Winery

Windy Ridge Winery

Winzerwald Winery

For the cost, and to purchase advance tickets, visit Marsh Supermarkets or click here.

Images: E.J. Musgrave

Elizabeth J. Musgrave writes the food and wine columns: White Linen (Retirement Living magazine) and Destination Dining (M magazine), is a fine-living, travel, food, wine and spirits writer photographer, and performing arts and restaurant critic for Gotta Go. Catch her as the Travel & Leisure Adviser, WISH8 (CBS) on FOX 59 Morning News Show. Read Infused, the spirits, wine & beer lifestyle column, at www.GottaGo.us and www.FoodDigital.com Gotta Go is published on www.Gottago.us, and in magazines. Follow her on Twitter @GottaGo, LinkedIn and Facebook.

Gotta Go's Top 10 Best Dog Friendly Restaurants in Indianapolis 2014

Toby 2 enjoys the outdoor eateries ~

Last year's Top 10 Pet-Friendly Restaurants was so popular, we've updated and found more locations who adore your pups as much as you.

Some have little treats, a bowl of water or a bandanna for the furry friend. Others have a pat on the head and a relaxing place for you and your pet to rest while enjoying a drink or meal.

These establishments range in location from downtown to Broad Ripple and north to Carmel.
If you have a favorite pet-friendly spot not named, please let me know in the comments.

*For Top 10 Best Outdoor Dining Indianapolis Restaurants 2014, click here.*

Top 10 Best Pet-friendly
Restaurants in Indianapolis 2014

1.
Cafe Patachou

2.

The Greek Islands

3.

Barking Dog

4.

Moe & Johnny's

5.

Mesh on Mass

6.

Fire on the Monon

7.

Milano Inn

8.

Plumps Last Shot

9.

Colt's Grille

10.

Zest!

Images: David Nijhawan

Elizabeth J. Musgrave is a fine-living, travel, food, wine and spirits columnist, freelance writer and photographer, and performing arts and restaurant critic for Gotta Go. Catch her as Indy’s Travel & Leisure Adviser on FOX 59 Morning News Show. Read Infused, her spirits, wine & beer lifestyle column, at www.GottaGo.us and www.FoodDigital.com Gotta Go is published on www.Gottago.us, and in magazines. Follow her on Twitter @GottaGo, LinkedIn and Facebook.