Brindlebeast - 29 Hour Reading, January 2011

Fans, here's a fun glimpse into the rehearsal and creative process behind "Brindlebeast", the musical, starring Eric as Will Champion. Makes me feel as though I were there!



Read more and keep up to date on Brindlebeast here.

Another great review!

"One can hardly imagine an actor better suited for the role of Joseph than Eric Kunze. His charismatic persona and his captivating good-looks are enough to carry this show, but Kunze also brings with him an incredibly rich and powerful high tenor voice (his “Any Dream Will Do” is full of vocal panache) which he blends seamlessly with his finely nuanced acting (his “Close Every Door” is one of the most tender and touching moments in the entire show)."  Read more here.

Today's Theater Review

"...it was clear Kunze was perfectly cast for the part of Joseph due to his strong, beautiful voice when singing with the children “Any Dream Will Do” and later “Close Every Door.” Throughout the show he added dimensions to his character that goes from young man to one who emotionally matures over the years due to very trying circumstances, but in the end shows his true goodness when facing the brothers who betrayed him."
Read more here.
The show continues October 1, 2, 6, 7, 8 and 9th (check times)
To buy tickets, go to the San Diego Musical Theater website.

Music Circus Poster

Thanks to Mark for sending this on:

Don't miss this show!

Review from The Davis Enterprise 8/25/11

"Eric Kunze, known to Music Circus audiences for his roles as Che, Jesus and Joseph (and a good-looking hunk who probably will play 30-somethings for three decades) is perfectly cast as the GI Chris. His impressive vocal chops never cease to amaze. The combination of dead-on pitch, powerfully resonant yet sweet tone, and surprisingly nuanced and natural acting confirm why he made it to Broadway so early in his career, and why the Music Circus should hire him every chance they get."

And the raves are pouring in...

Review from the Sacramento Bee 8/25/11
Stafford Arima directs the large and talented cast with assurance. Kunze and Gray have performed their "Miss Saigon" roles on Broadway, and Dionisio has played her role in London and Canada. They are seasoned performers, but they bring energy and commitment to the roles as if they were new, not old, acquaintances...Kunze and Dionisio have several fine duets, best of which is the exquisite "Last Night of the "World."

Review from the Sacramento Press 8/25/11
"Kunze has a versatile, powerful voice and is believable in the passionate “Why, God, Why?” and in his tender duet with Dionisio, “Sun and Moon.” He conveys strength and anguish in the first act and is convincingly defeated in confrontation with his wife near the end of the second."


Fan Reviews:

Saw Miss Saigon last night in Sacramento and was blown away at how amazing it was. Had seen the Broadway production years ago, and wasn't sure how it would go over on the small stage. Loved every minute of it. (Tammy Pacheco Booker)

I saw MISS SAIGON last night. AWESOME! For those of you who don't know, Music Circus is theatre in the round. Minimal sets. The audience is in your face. There's no place to hide. This is honest, raw theatre, and Eric always performs magnificently in this space! It's wonderful having Eric in Sacramento, whether as Joseph, Che, The Man or now as Chris. Come back again soon! You have lots of fans here!  (Clayton Whitehead )

My wife and I saw last night's performance of Miss Saigon. It was AMAZING! GREAT JOB BY ALL!!!  (Jim Kiniris)

Purchase tickets here: www.SacramentoMusicCircus.com.

Miss Saigon opens tonight in Sacramento!

Toi, toi, toi to Eric and the cast, crew and orchestra of Miss Saigon at the California Music Circus as they open tonight! It is sure to be an awesome show, made even more special by the theater in the round. I saw Eric in "Evita" there a few years ago and it was unforgettable!

Purchase tickets here:  www.SacramentoMusicCircus.com.

Feedback on Eric's CD

Hi Fans,
I got feedback from someone who purchased Eric's CD and want to share it with you.  The CD is really THAT good, I promise!...Maggi

In playing the CD I am unwrapping a package slowly. First I was stuck on “Maria”. After playing it around 25 times (I have it in the car with me), I’ve been gradually moving onto other songs. The one I am wearing out now is “Why, God, Why”. I woke up this morning with it playing in my head, so I turned on the CD player.  I’ve been reading your fan site and some of the articles in the newspapers. This is really getting a hold of me! When I heard "Gethsemane" I thought, "MOVE OVER, ADAM LAMBERT" when Eric was sort of screaming.  I loved it!!!  (from Annette in Arizona)

Farewell Philadelphia, hello Sacramento!

After a wildly successful three month run in Philadelphia with "Miss Saigon", Eric will soon be reprising the role of Chris at the Sacramento Music Theater's Music Circus, August 23-28th.

For more information on shows and how to purchase tickets, visit www.SacramentoMusicCircus.com.

The "MISS SAIGON" cast will be led by Eric Kunze as Chris, Ma-Anne Dionisio as Kim and Kevin Gray as The Engineer. Kunze performed the role of Chris on Broadway, and was last seen at Music Circus as Che in 2008's production of "Evita." Dionisio has performed the role of Kim internationally, including productions in Britain and Australia, as well as performing as Eponine in the US tour of "Les Miserables." Gray starred in the Broadway revival of "Jesus Christ Superstar" as Pontius Pilate. The production will be directed by Stafford Arima and choreographed by Bob Richard.

Bonus with CD Orders

New! CD's ordered from the fansite will be shipped with a 4x6 photo of Eric, personally signed by him! Place your order in the right hand column.

Miss Saigon Walnut Street Trip Report and Review

My first Miss Saigon experience was during one of the Broadway tours some years ago.  I don't remember much of the show, except that I wasn't overly impressed.  Now that I've seen three different productions starring Eric Kunze as Chris, I have grown to love the show to the point where it's possibly my favorite musical, superceding my previous favorite of Les Miserables.  I have to believe that is mainly due to Eric playing the role of Chris.  I try not to be partial, because it is Eric, rather I think it is because he adds a humanity to his character that is not usually evident. 

Chris' dilemma of being torn between his wife and Kim is a difficult one to portray without seeming callous.  I'm not the only one who believes Eric portrays that dilemma in such a poignant way that you actually understand what is going on under the surface.  He loved Kim at the time, a love that was heightened by the drama of war and the heartbreaking evacuation in which he was forced to leave her behind.  After a year of loss and regret he allowed himself to love once again.  Distance and time had given perspective to what he thought was love, but now he has to protect what his reality had become.  When he sings "The Confrontation" he opens up for the first time to his wife Ellen.  Eric's interpretation of Chris' breakdown is heartbreaking and real. 

After seeing this production at Walnut Street eight times I feel I can say that it is the best production I have seen to date.  The show moves along so seamlessly there is not a dead moment and my attention never wavered.  I felt the actors were giving 100% at every performance, despite their grueling nine show-a-week schedule, which included rehearsals and promotion.  Sunday night I sat close enough to see tears roll down Melinda Chua's cheek at the death scene. The staging, direction and cast rival and even surpass a Broadway production.  Now that I am home I cannot stop replaying the songs over and over in my mind. 

Here are a few photos of our fanclub gatherings and stage door meetings from last weekend:

I had a chance have dinner with new fans including Suzanne, Sheri, Suzy, Nikki,  Monica and Ingrid and connected with others I met at the theater.

Eric, Maggi, Suzy, Philip Michael Baskerville (John), Nikki, Melinda Chua (Kim)

Interview with Eric in the Philadelphia Examiner today!
Kunze has a lot of history with the show. He worked with the Broadway Company.
Kunze said, "it's just a really incredible interpretation of it. The directors let us get gritty and real with these characters. I'm having a great time."

Fans, Fans, Fans

In the space of 24 hours, two people have ordered Eric's CD from the fansite and three have left rave comments about Eric:

Maggi.
My name is Jennifer. I went last night to see Miss Saigon for the second time at the WST. I first saw it on Broadway. When I heard Eric's voice last night, I was mesmerized! He and the entire cast at the WST did a wonderful job! The emotion and sincerity on how they portrayed their roles was amazing! Also, Eric is very easy on the eyes! :) In short, please pass along to Eric and the entire cast of the WST that I really enjoyed the show. As someone who does not have any musical talent what so ever-I truly enjoy watching good theatre. Thank you! Eric- I have become a fan!
Jennifer, South Jersey"

Dear Maggi,

I was excited to order the CD. Can't wait to get it...What is interesting to me is that Eric's performance really moved me. I have seen a lot of shows. This was the first time that I felt mesmerized, emotionally engaged. It was weird that in a matter of few days I went from "it'd be interesting to see the same chris" to "I need to hear him sing". This is the first time I have contacted any fan club of any sort. I guess I am a fan.

S.D.

From Michele:

We went to see the show in Philly and loved the entire cast. Eric's voice is the best I have heard in the role of Chris, and we've seen the show several times. I am anxious to listen to the CD.

Eric Kunze and Melinda Chua at the Walnut Street Gala May 13th

(Photo by Mark Garvin)

Don't miss Eric and Melinda in "Miss Saigon" at the Walnut Street Theater in Philadelphia. Many are saying this is the best production they have seen, including Broadway. Due to the overwhelming demand, the show has been held over and will run until July 24th.

Fan Mail

An interesting comment was left on the fansite today:

I am a specialist in voice care (Vocologist), and a Professor in Speech Pathology. During this week I am visiting Philadelphia as I am attending the 40th Annual Symposium of The Voice Foundation. Today I saw the Miss Saigon show at Walnut Street Theatre. I was seriously impressed with Eric Kunze's voice. Beautiful! He has a new fan.

And this comment was sent to me via email:

Dear Maggi,

I found your fansite for Eric as I was checking out the info for Miss Saigon at the WST [Walnut Street Theater]. What a great way to let people know about the talented Mr. Kunze!

Miss Saigon is my favorite Broadway show and I have seen it at least ten times in many different states. I was lucky enough to see Lea Solanga in it when she returned to Broadway but unlucky in Dublin, Ireland when the show was canceled due to mechanical troubles, if you can believe that! As every theater lover knows, each time the curtain goes up it's a different show and atmosphere each time. When I saw it on May 25th, I was totally blown away by the entire production! It was the most emotional and excellent production I have ever seen!!!

Whenever I see Miss Saigon, I always fall in love with Chris during the first act but really change my mind when he pretty much kicks Kim to the curb in the bedroom scene with John and Ellen. It always bothers me that he decides to leave Kim and Tam to fend for themselves. Each performer I've seen portray Chris has always been good but not memorable in any emotional way. Eric's acting talents really came across and I finally believed that it was heartwrenching and horrible for him to decide what to do. I still loved him by the time the curtain came down! The entire cast was so believable that I felt like I was watching it for the first time. It broke my heart and I quickly tried to get rid of the tears when the lights came on so people didn't think I was a basket case!

I purchased Eric's CD before I saw the show and his voice was phenomenal in person. While I sat in the audience at intermission, I thought about the difficult role Eric has playing Chris and wondered if he ever looks out at the audience and imagines if any of the men sitting there has left a child behind in Vietnam. It makes me sad to think that and I can't even watch the film they show when John sings Bui-Doi.

Thanks for the great website about Eric and I look forward to following his career and seeing him on stage again. Will you be doing any more special fan club events before the show ends in July? How do I join the fanclub?

          Sincerely, Susie M.

I replied to Susie that the next fanclub dinner will be held Friday, July 15th at 5:00 p.m. at Marathon Grill, just 1-1/2 blocks from the theater.  All are welcome to attend, just email me at maggiwun@yahoo.com to rsvp.  Anyone wishing to be on our mailing list to be notified of Eric news should email me as well.  Thanks Susie!  I'm sure Eric and the cast will be blessed to read your kind remarks.

Miss Saigon Extended at Walnut Street

Good news Eric fans!  This note was posted on the Walnut Street Theater's Facebook page:

Just a heads up for our MISS SAIGON fans: Due to popularity, we're extending MISS SAIGON until July 24...The Heat is On - LONGER! Tickets for the extension are on sale this Monday.

Review of Miss Saigon in STAGE, by Patricia Bradford

As one would expect in a musical production of this caliber, all the voices in the cast are excellent; but it is the quality of the acting that sets the WST production apart from others. The chemistry between the American GI, Chris (Eric Kunze) and the young Vietnamese girl, Kim (Melinda Chua) is palpable in the duet, “Sun and Moon”, aided in part by the tender staging, deftly handled by veteran director, Bruce Lumpkin. This team has worked together before, so perhaps that accounts for the level of intimacy achieved in the lovers’ early scenes. Whatever the reason, the result is beautiful to behold. Chua makes a fine Kim, fragile and sweet of voice, but with the core of strength the role demands. Kunze’s vocals are masterful and his portrayal of Chris completely truthful.

From Marius to Miss Saigon, a Broadway Star Makes His Walnut Debut!

The Walnut Street Theater June 2011 Newsletter features Eric:


"When you have a man like Eric Kunze playing Chris in MISS SAIGON, it's easy to understand how Kim can carry a torch for him after so many years. There's no denying that he's a handsome fella, but furthermore, he's an enormously talented performer with the kind of leading-man good looks you'd expect for the role. And boy, does he deliver the goods! Originally from San Diego (which he still calls home today), his first theatrical performance was at the age of 17 in a production of Tom Sawyer at the Moonlight Ampitheater. He spent many summers on that stage growing as a young performer before going to college after high school. "I love coming home to family, friends, weather and ocean air that San Diego provides" gushed Eric.

In the last quarter of his college year, he was in New York City on an internship studying theatre, and auditioned for Les Miserables, landing the role of Marius. It was time for Eric to make his Broadway debut in the world's most popular musical. Who could ask for anything more? There was no where to go but up from that point on. "About nine months later," Eric explained "I was moved into the role of Chris in MISS SAIGON, also performing in the First National Company (where I met and worked with Melinda Chua and Phillip Michael Baskerville from our current production) as well as the Broadway company."

Working with the big stars and big lights on Broadway could make an actor jaded, but not so in the case of Eric. He couldn't be more thrilled to be here in Philadelphia at America's oldest theatre reprising his MISS SAIGON role. "This production at The Walnut is by far one of the most passionate, well sung, and beautifully directed productions I have ever been a part of - thanks to Bruce Lumpkin. This story and music that Philly audiences are experiencing is absolutely TOP NOTCH and I am fortunate to be part of something that affects hundreds of people every night." As for what part of the show is his favorite, all he can say is "it is difficult to point out a particular moment that is my favorite, but I suppose every time I get to sing into my co-star's eyes, that is a pretty special moment to me." And when you hear Eric singing such anthems as "Why, God, Why," it will be a special moment for you too. We can't wait to see what's next for him after his Walnut debut in MISS SAIGON!"

Also from their newsletter:

THIS IS THE HOUR OF MISS SAIGON!

Such an amazing production! I am honored to have seen it! And the cast was out of this world! - David McCloughan Jr.


Rarely am I as blown away as I was by Miss Saigon. Thank you for a fabulous night of theatre. - Debbie Bradin Silverstone


The show was amazing...so emotional it had me crying! I loved it! - Cathie Polchenko Josaphouitch


100% standing O from the top of the balcony down to the front row. There was so much passion, energy and talent onstage! Amazing show - do not miss it! - Margaret Stava Wunschl

These are quotes from actual audience members who have experienced the sensation at the Walnut Street Theatre that is MISS SAIGON! The standing ovations keep on coming. The applause is louder than the helicopter. The critics agree that MISS SAIGON is really going to heat up Philadelphia this summer. MISS SAIGON is a blockbuster that audiences can't stop raving about. With Bruce Lumpkin's brilliantly nuanced direction, Michelle Gaudette's heart-stopping choreography and the star-making performances of Melinda Chua and Eric Kunze, MISS SAIGON is a masterpiece that will dazzle your senses.

Just for fun...

Recognize anyone?

Eric and Lea Salonga in "Les Miserables" on Broadway

Walnut Street Miss Saigon: Day 3 Fanclub Dinner

To see the photos in a full size slideshow or to download, click on the round Picasa icon in the right hand corner.

The fanclub dinner was a big success! We met at Marathon Grill, just two blocks from the theater. Present were fans from Houston, Michigan, northern and southern Jersey. We celebrated Eric's birthday belatedly with handmade E and K cookies. Everyone (including our lone male, Jake with the crooked little finger) got official Eric Kunze fanclub rings. Eric's fans are all so nice. We always have a great time together. Afterward we attended the show and were able to visit with the cast, including Angelica-Lee Aspiras and Melinda Chua, in the lobby following the performance.

Walnut Street Miss Saigon: Day Two

The second night of theater at Walnut Street!  Instead of sitting in the back row, this time I was in the front row.  What a difference!  What impressed me was the intensity each person brought to their roles, whether lead or chorus. This night I focused more on some of the other roles.  Especially impressive was Angelica-Lee Aspiras, playing a dual role (Gigi and Assistant Commissar).  Her interpretation of "Movie in My Mind" was one of the best I've heard.  Mel Sagrado Maghuyop as Thuy stood out as well.  Walnut Street should cast him in the upcoming "King and I".  I could clearly see the faces of the ensemble, during the Morning of the Dragon number, for example, fully committed to their characterizations.  This is the type of musical that, no matter how many times I have seen it, I always pick up something new with each performance.  I look forward to another new experience tonight.  Fanclub dinner at 5:00!  What fun!

Walnut Street Miss Saigon: Day One

Opening night, Wednesday, May 25th
The theater was sold out, except for one seat left in the upper balcony, back row, which I snapped up.  It was a treat to see the capacity crowd clap, whistle and roar in appreciation after the musical numbers.  Apparently, there have been standing ovations every night and this was no exception.  Every person stood, from the upper balcony to the front row. 

The reason for that is, this cast is exceptional.  Eric is joined by his Houston Kim, Melinda Chua.  They know each other inside and out, having done the show so often together, every move looks entirely natural and believable. They have worked with Philip Michael Baskerville before as well and he always turns in consistently excellent performances.   The part of the engineer always has been a scene stealer and show stopper, but the spin Bobby Martino puts on the role takes it up a whole other notch.  I don't know how he does it but he elicits real sympathy for his sleazy character expecially during the re-education sequence. 

Having seen Eric perform this role at the Muny and at TUTS in Houston, I felt he played his character in a slightly more hardened, jaded way than before.  That made his falling in love with Kim all the more poignant. 

The pivital helicopter scene is a challenge depending on the limitations of the venue.  Director Bruce Lumpkin is especially inventive here at the Walnut and is able to use smoke and mirrors for a realistic evacuation sequence.  I've seen the show produced four different times.  I've never been quite so moved to tears as this production.  Kudos to the entire cast, director and crew for their superb work! 
(written by Maggi Wunschl)

Miss Saigon's Official Opening Today

Toi, toi, toi!!!!! 
That's the opera equivalent of "break a leg", the pre-show good luck wish. It's to represent spitting, and properly done, it is said over the left shoulder of the recipient of the wishes.  So, to Eric and the cast of Miss Saigon on the opening of the show,  "toi, toi, toi".

And the raves are pouring in for Miss Saigon...

The buzz on the Walnut Street Facebook page is that the show is wowing audiences:

"I have been a subscriber for nearly a decade. While I truly enjoy most productions, rarely am I as blown away as I was by Miss Saigon. Thank you for a fabulous night of theatre."

"Another Standing O last night at MISS SAIGON! The "Heat is On" with this fantastic cast gracing the Walnut's stage. We're all very excited for Opening night next week!"

"Such an amazing production!!!! I am honored to have seen it!!!! And the cast was out of this world!!!!!"

And on Eric's Fanclub Facebook page:
"I saw the show last night at WST. Such an amazing voice!"

"I agree with Ella!! You were amazing!!!"

First Look! Photos of Walnut Street Miss Saigon

Production Photos by Mark Gavin

See more at the Walnut Street Theater website

http://www.walnutstreettheatre.org/season/saigon.php

Walnut Street "Miss Saigon" opens this week! Fanclub dinner Friday, May27th

Our next chance to see Eric in action! Come to Philly and see this fabulous production.   We are holding fanclub dinners on Friday, May 27th and Friday, July 15th. Let me know if you want to join in the fun: maggiwun@yahoo

Eric answers questions about Miss Saigon

Dear Fans,
Eric was asked to participate in a high school project in the Philly area where Broadway actors are asked questions by the students about their careers and the business in general.  They asked Eric, who is starring in Miss Saigon at the Walnut Theater and because they will be attending. This is Eric's response to the questions asked:

I'm glad to be able to participate and hopefully help out with this project!
I first played the part of Chris in Miss Saigon with the Broadway company, and have since played the role in MANY productions across the country. I have never actually counted how many performances... I think that would be very daunting...however, being that the material is SO well written, the challenge of playing the role so many times NEVER gets old or boring in the least. It is both a challenge and a pleasure to sing this music night after night, providing respect for the piece and also the veterans and victims of the Vietnam War.

In my opinion, that point is one that Bruce focuses on with great intensity with his direction. He searches for the truth and drives it home through his directing- letting the audience experience and react to it their own way. I am always learning new things about both myself and this piece when I work with him.

I think its important for the students to realize that the climate of the world today is not too far from when this story takes place. It is still very relevant and holds its own to many generations that will see it.

I hope you and the students enjoy it!
Take care.
Eric

"My Collection" in The Sondheim Review

More exciting Eric news today: Eric's CD, "My Collection" was given a very good review in the summer edition of "The Sondheim Review" by writer Andy Propst. The publication is available at bookstores and newsstands in NY or you can order it via this link. 

‎"Kunze's graceful tenor voice seems custom built for the big anthems of the British poperas, and a host of them are included on this disc that's a retrospective of his career, including a particularly satisfying "Gethsemane" (Jesus Christ Superstar), a robust "Why God Why?" (Miss Saigon) and an exceptionally well considered "Empty Chairs at Empty Tables" (Les Miserables). There are a couple of nice surprises in the mix, too, such as Stephen Schwartz's haunting ballad "Fathers and Sons" from Working. Sondheim fans will want to make note of Kunze's perfectly phrased and terrifically intense "Finishing the Hat" from Sunday in the Park with George, which finds, interestingly, a slightly pop side to the pointillist underpinnings of the song." written by Andy Propst, "Singing Sondheim", Sondheim Review, 2011

Eric Kunze to star in "Miss Saigon" at Sacramento Music Circus

Good news for all you west coasters!  After his stint at the Walnut Street Theater in Philadelphia, Eric will be "Chris" in "Miss Saigon" at the Music Circus in Sacramento from August 23-28th.  Single tickets go on sale May 16th here.

Walnut Street Gala, Friday, May 13th

For those of you in the Philadelphia area, prior to his May17-July17th engagement in "Miss Saigon" with the Walnut Street Theater,  Eric Kunze will be part of a group of artists performing at their gala concert on Friday, May 13th.  This year's theme is Love Changes Everything, and it will take place at 7:00pm

Performers include (subject to change): Josie Andrews, Taylor Bright, Melinda Chua, Jeffrey Coon, Ben Dibble Joilet Harris, Eric Kunze, Ben Lipitz, Brandon O'Rourke, Katie O'Shaughnessey, Peter Schmitz and Denise Whelan.

Tickets are available for purchase now! $35 for Orchestra and Mezzanine Seating, $75 for premium seats plus a complimentary pre-show cocktail

$250 for Gala Tickets: VIP seating, complimentary pre-show cocktail, and access to the exclusive VIP Party which follows the concert – the stars will be in attendance!

To purchase tickets to the Gala, call the theatre at 215-574-3550 or visit our website. Proceeds go towards the Education and Outreach department, which helps support over 100,000 kids a year.
http://www.walnutstreettheatre.org/

Eric Kunze: My Collection is available for digital download on Amazon, iTunes and CD Baby!

We are happy to report that you are now able to order Eric Kunze's music online.  Here is  Eric's Page on Amazon the download is also available on iTunes here and on CD Baby here.  You can order the actual CD either here from this website, or from CD Baby.  Amazon has the CD available for mailing as well but you will receive it sooner if you order it here from this website.  We promise to do next day shipping when at all possible.

Eric will soon be appearing from May 17th to July 17th at the Walnut Street Theater in Philadelphia as Chris in "Miss Saigon".  Tickets here.

Thank you all for your overwhelming response and support!

"15 Alluring Albums" - TheaterMania Reviews "Eric Kunze: My Collection"

Eric's CD got a great review from TheaterMania.

By Andy Propst:
Kunze's graceful tenor voice seems custom built for the big anthems of the British poperas, and a host of them are included on this disc that's a retrospective of his career, including a particularly satisfying "Gethsemane" from Jesus Christ Superstar and a terrifically considered "Empty Chairs at Empty Tables" from Les Miz. There are a couple of nice surprises in the mix, too, such as Stephen Schwartz's haunting ballad "Fathers and Sons" from Working.

Here is a link to the entire article.

A Milestone is Reached for our Fansite

Play Ball! Eric and Melinda Chua to sing National Anthem at the Phillies game Sunday, May 1st

BIG NEWS, SPORTS FANS!

Eric Kunze and Melinda Chua will sing the National Anthem
while in Philly at Walnut Street Theater's production of Miss Saigon
Picture them standing on the field below at Citizens Bank Park which holds at least 44,000 people:










SUNDAY: 8:00 p.m. May 1
(From Maggi: I don't know what time the pregame starts, so I would tune in earlier.)
...
Phillies vs Mets

Broadcast: ESPN, WPHT 1210,

TV: ESPN Baseball Tonight: Broadcasting live from Third Base Gate during their main show
from 7:00 - 8:00 p.m.throughout the game and postgame.

If you are in the Philly area and want to attend the game click here.

Miss Saigon Update

Rehearsals have begun for Miss Saigon at the Walnut Street Theater in Philadelphia.  Won't be long now!  The first performance is May 17th!  For tickets:  www.walnutstreettheater.org
Our first fanclub dinner will be held Friday, May 27th at 5:00pm near the theater.  Let Maggi know if you would like to attend at maggiwun@yahoo.com

Maggi's Review of Broadway's Best

Eric Kunze and Gina DeLuca have collaborated musically since their high school days. They starred in musicals, among them West Side Story, in which their performances were so good the mayor of the city declared he didn't believe they were only high school students. They both separately went on to successful Broadway careers. They are still performing, but their love of the art inspires them to pass on their knowledge to children and teens aspiring to Broadway careers.

Broadway's Best is a show they created to give these youngsters a chance to work with them and gain needed stage experience. The Lake Havasu production included young people from the area (Telesis Preparatory Academy specifically) and was custom tailored to their talents. The two tiniest members, Cole Baillargeon (singing Gavroche) and Claire Killian (little Cosette) stole the hearts of the audience. I could imagine both of them moving on to successful musical careers one day. Corey Janecek, who recently starred as Lancelot in Grace Arts' “Camelot” had us in stitches with his slyly timed “Cést Moi”. Magin Hall and Tara Crawford, two of the older teens, were professional in their renditions of “I Know Things Now” (Into the Woods) and “Simple Joys of Maidenhood” (Camelot). The musicians, led by Suzy Bohling added to the quality of the production.

Their numbers were interlaced with Eric and Gina singing solo and together some of the most showstopping numbers in their repertoire. We were transported from 1800's France in Les Mis, to the opera house in Phantom, to biblical times in Joseph and Jesus Christ Superstar. Costumes or sets were not needed to set the mood. Their vocal and acting abilities sufficed. The show was a testament to Eric's organizational, directorial and teaching abilities. These were very lucky children and they clearly adored Eric and Gina, as evidenced by the pair being mobbed after the show for autographs. Grace Ann Etcheberria-Jacobs (who was Eric and Gina's first theater teacher in San Diego) hosted the show at Grace Arts Live. It is evident she loves what she does and has a heart to pass on her love of theater to her students. I am so glad she passed it on to our Eric xxx-years ago!

Photos of the show: (I was given express permission to photograph the show just for Eric's fans from my front row seat, using no flash).

(You are able to view these in full screen mode in Picasa by clicking on the icon in the lower right hand corner.)

Photo Archive: Eric in Chess, 1997

Wouldn't it be great to see Eric in "Chess" again? This was from the Pittsburgh CLO in 1997. See if you can spot Eric. I didn't recognize him!

Eric Kunze Nominated for Best Actor in a Musical by the Kevin Kline Awards

Eric was nominated by the Kevin Kline Awards for his portrayal of Joe Hardy in the Muny's "Damn Yankees".  The gala awards presentation will take place on March 28th.  Go Eric!!!!!  Read the full article here!

Brindlebeast Readings Postponed

We received word today from Anita Riggio, writer and producer of Brindlebeast, that the readings in New York and Connecticut scheduled for March will be delayed until later this year.  Stay tuned for updates!  In the meantime, here is a photo from the January rehearsals.  You can see more photos on the Brindlebeast website (under "Building Brindlebeast") here.

Selections from Eric Kunze: My Collection