Friday, December 21, 2012

Merry Christmas from Eric

Happy Holidays to all of you- my friends! Thank you for your continued support and encouragement this past year. You are all sensational!
Stay tuned for my 2013 schedule after the New Year! Please be safe and have a wonderful holiday season. "May your days be merry and bright"...
Love, Eric

Tuesday, December 4, 2012

A Very Broadway Christmas

From Maggi: Eric's single from this album will be available soon for download on CD Baby and other sites. Stay tuned!

But you will also want to get the whole wonderful album here:
An all new Christmas CD Recording titled A VERY BROADWAY ...
CHRISTMAS will feature a host of Broadway Stars to support the Dr. Carol Channing-Harry Kullijian Foundation For The Arts in its mission to promote the arts in public education. A portion of the proceeds from the sale of this CD will go directly to support schools in Union Beach, New Jersey who lost all of their musical instruments after Hurricane Sandy and have been forced to cancel their music classes and programs indefinitely.

A VERY BROADWAY CHRISTMAS features the talents of Matthew Morrison (Tony Nominee - Light In The Piazza; South Pacific and Fox Television's GLEE), Susan Egan (Tony Nominee - Disney's Beauty And the Beast; Cabaret; Triumph Of Love), Stephanie J. Block (Wicked; 9 to 5 and currently starring on Broadway in The Mystery Of Edwin Drood), Krysta Rodriguez (The Addams Family and newest co-star on NBC Television's SMASH), Cathy Rigby (Seussical; Peter Pan); Eric Kunze (Miss Saigon; Les Miserables; Damn Yankees), and more - and featuring a very special reading of “The Night Before Christmas” by impressionist Rich Little and all of his voices.

The CD will be available on December 7, 2012 and can be purchased on The Channing-Kullijian Foundation website at www.channingarts.org

Monday, December 3, 2012

Break a leg Eric!

An Evening With Eric Kunze, December 4th at the
Cosmopolitan Cabaret in Sacramento
What a fantastic opportunity to see and hear Eric "up close and personal" in an intimate setting, singing songs from his favorite shows. Seats are very limited! 

(916) 557-1999.  (Tickets not available online.)

 
For a special preview, click here to hear Eric sing from his last
Cabaret appearance in Palm Springs.

Monday, November 19, 2012

Contest Winner!

Big City Broadway is proud to announce ... The lucky winner of the $100 ticket to Eric's Cabaret in Sacramento is...Stacy Jarmillo-Solis

Erics favorite Role is Che in Evita! Stacy guessed that High Flying Adored is his favorite song. Congratulations Stacy!

Don't miss seeing Eric in Sacramento on December 4th!  (See below for details.)

Thursday, November 1, 2012

Photos from Eric's cabaret show at the Spa Resort Casino in Palm Springs. Bookings can be obtained from his agent: 
DGRW, Inc. Talent Agency, NY
(212) 382-2000
info@gdrwinc.com





Wednesday, September 19, 2012

Break a Leg Eric and Gina!


Under the Havasu Stars Opening Gala

Eric and Gina will be the special guest stars, a part of Grace Arts Fall Season Opening Gala, "Under the Havasu Stars", one weekend only, September 21-23, 2012.

Tickets and more information here.

Sunday, September 9, 2012

Lead actors in the new musical "Brindlebeast", Alexandria Wailes and Eric Kunze chat about the project and the stages of it's development.


Photos of Eric and Alexandria Wailes during a Brindlebeast session in NYC recently. (Thanks to Anita Riggio, writer and producer)





Saturday, September 1, 2012

Brindlebeast Update

The work on the Brindlebeast project continues to move forward.  Eric recently met with Anita Riggio (writer and producer) as well as the rest of the cast in New York.  Stay tuned for updates on this exciting new musical at www.brindlebeastmusical.com



Saturday, August 11, 2012

Broadway at the Cascade Grand Opening Starring Eric Kunze!

Today's the day! Break a leg and lots of love to you Eric from your many fans!


Sunday, August 5, 2012

Eric Radio Interview

Listen to a radio interview Eric did with Joey English, KNEWS Palm Springs radio, published August 4th. Eric is discussing his upcoming Cabaret show at the Spa Resort Casino this Saturday, August 11th at 8:00pm. The interview is at 31:50 minutes - 36:29 minutes.
http://joeyenglish.com/

Sunday, July 29, 2012

Eric Kunze Cabaret in Palm Springs August 11th


Broadway leading man Eric Kunze will kick off the all new “Broadway At The Cascade” Cabaret Series at the Spa Resort and Casino in downtown Palm Springs with a one night only concert on August 11 at 8:00 pm. Kunze will reminisce and perform sings from his many Broadway, touring  and regional shows including Les Miserables, Miss Siagon and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Whistle Down The Wind. The Cabaret Series is produced by The Dr. Carol Channing – Harry Kullijian Foundation For The Arts and all proceeds benefit the Foundation’s mission to restore the arts to Americas public schools. The “Broadway At The Cascade” Cabaret Series is produced and directed by The Channing-Kullijian Foundation’s Executive Director, David Green. A different Broadway or Cabaret Artist will be featured once a month in the intimate Cascade Showroom from August  2012 through June 2013. For tickets, priced at $25.

Thursday, July 26, 2012

Little Mermaid Afterglow



(To see a full screen slideshow, click on the left hand corner icon.)

The production of Little Mermaid in the theater in the round at Wells Fargo Pavilion in Sacramento was one of the best cast and tightest shows I have seen. This show could tour for years and pull in audiences all over the world. It’s amazing that a Disney show about a mermaid could appeal to men, women and children of all ages. But that is what I found in talking to audience members around me. The storyline of the love between a father and daughter, her rebellion, consequences and repentance touches all of our hearts. The love story between Ariel and Prince Eric appeals to females young and old and the witch Ursula’s Faustian scheme adds tension to the plot.

Comic relief is added by the brilliantly played characters Sebastian (Kevin Smith Kirkwood), Scuttle (Jack Doyle), the love-struck, skateboarding teenager Flounder (Henry Hodges), and Chef Louis (Eric Gunhus), hysterical in the impeccably staged “Les Poissons”. I was so impressed with the voices, characterizations and timing of each of these men. Jessica Grove couldn’t have been more perfect as the Mermaid. She totally looked and sounded the part and was able to portray the conflict between her dedication to her father and her desire to see more of the world above the sea. Merwin Foard, as an almost Shakespearean King Triton was regal and commanding and the theater echoed with his booming baritone.

It wouldn’t be a Disney story without an evil character to threaten the hero and Vicki Lewis couldn’t have been a better villainess as Ursula. Her costume was almost a character in itself, an amazing creation of long squid tentacles that had a life of their own. The slimy cronies, Flotsom and Jetson, (impeccably played by Scott Leiendecker and Ben Roseberry as the electric eels) had sparkling green bodysuits that lit up when they talked. In fact, every single costume was a work of art. Ariel and her mermaid sisters with their gowns made of silk gave the impression of movement as they undulated their bodies to mimic the motion of the water.

Director Glenn Casale reworked the show and the script tirelessly up to the last minute, tweaking and tightening it into a seamless production. The set design and blocking, a challenge for theater in the round, was minimal, efficient and effective, with the help of the rotating platform. At the end of the first act, Ariel’s transformation from a mermaid into a woman was thrilling to behold, as she was swimming (flown) up toward the surface, her tail dropping off and she suddenly had legs. Glenn’s use of the aisles to stage scenes brought the show into the audience, much to the delight of the little girl sitting to my right. She gasped as she saw Ariel up close. The clever script had the audience in stitches. Prince Eric was trying to guess the mute Ariel’s name: “Jasmine? Mulan? Belle?” King Triton: “As long as you live under my reef you’ll abide by my rules”. Sebastian: “The seaweed is always greener on the other side”.

Even the music was being reworked practically until opening night. The Broadway score was being combined with the existing book and the orchestra and performers didn’t work together until a few days before. The songs were so memorable I still find myself humming them now, days later. “Her Voice”, Eric’s solo, was heartrending and haunting. I especially loved the quartet “If Only” between Triton, Ariel, Prince Eric and Sebastian, each singer holding their own as they poignantly sang about their feelings.

Of course, my focus was on Eric Kunze, the embodiment of royalty as Prince Eric. One arm behind his back and the other in a regal wave, I almost forgot he was Eric from San Diego. One review said of him, “finally a Prince Eric who can actually act as well as sing”, and he did both with perfection. My only complaint would be that, while he sang with other people, he didn’t have enough solos. The one he did have (Her Voice) was beautiful. Vocally, this show wasn’t as challenging as, say, Jesus Christ Superstar or Miss Saigon, but it was great to see him do something on a lighter note. He looked fantastic in his billowing white shirt and knee high boots. I had to chuckle when Ariel saw him and said “he’s so beautiful, so perfect in every way.” I’m sure every woman in the audience felt the same way.

After the shows there were throngs of little girls, many in their Little Mermaid costumes and some even in red wigs, waiting for his and Jessica’s autographs. Eric patiently signed everyone’s programs and tirelessly posed for photographs. One night he met a special girl named Riley who has been battling three bouts of leukemia. She was thrilled to meet him and especially thrilled with the tiara and Prince Eric doll she received from him. She slept with the Prince Eric doll that night and hasn’t left it far from her sight since.

Eric also took time out of his demanding schedule to come to our fanclub meeting at Cafeteria restaurant. We were thrilled and honored to spend time with him.  He was gracious to answer our questions and pose for pictures before he had to go to the theater. Several of the fanclub had traveled long distances to attend; some from Michigan and another from Pennsylvania, as well as driving into Sacramento from outside the city. We all felt it was well worth the time, expense and effort to get there. Eric’s kindness, humbleness and talent is what draws people to him like bees to honey. I have never heard him say an unkind word about anyone and, in turn, I have never had anyone make a negative comment about him. That is very rare in today’s world. Thank you, Eric, for every thrilling moment!

Monday, July 16, 2012

Little Mermaid Review from Sacramento Press

Hi fans,
Here is an excerpt from today's review (pertaining to Eric) in the Sacramento Press:
Prince Eric (the heroic and sensitive Eric Kunze) is being groomed by his father to take over his kingdom, though – as he tells his crew – “I’d rather be a sailor than a prince any day.”
In an effort to distance himself from daddy’s expectations, he spends as much time at sea as possible, though royal mentor Grimsby (the properly officious Ron Wisniski) is always in tow.
When a squall lands Eric in the drink, Ariel swims to his rescue.
Prince Eric’s back-story is more fully explored in this expanded (and darker) stage version that also features two new songs (with music by Alan Menken and lyrics by Glenn Slater): “Daddy’s Little Angel” (Ursula) and “If Only” (Ariel).
It’s impossible to talk about the show’s songs, without bestowing kudos to the entire cast for their Ariel-like vocal talents.
Words like “passionate,” “flawless,” and “simply perfect” come to mind when attempting to ascribe adjectives to their performances.

Read more HERE.

Saturday, July 14, 2012

Interview with Eric Kunze on JCS Zone

While in Ottawa doing "Do You Hear the People Sing" recently, Eric did a phone interview with Andrew Simpson, of the Jesus Christ Superstar Zone, a website devoted to everything about that musical. With his permission, here is the article in full. You can also access the article on their website to make comments. (Registration is required.) The interview can be found here under "Database", "Interviews", "Fresh Blood". Thanks, Andy!

Photo is from the Jesus Christ Superstar National Tour 2003 (with Lawrence Clayton)

JCS Zone -- Eric Kunze Interview
Summary: Conducted by Simpson, following a performance of "Do You Hear the People Sing," a celebration of the music of Boublil and Schonberg consisting largely of selections from "Les Mis" and "Miss Saigon," featuring Kunze, Lea Salonga and Terrence Mann. Special thanks to Maggi, Eric's webmaster, for setting up this interview!

Q: When did you first hear JCS? What did you think?
A: I first heard of it... I can't remember how old I was but I was a young boy. My family used to watch the movie around Easter time. So, I grew up with Ted Neeley singing it in my head. We weren't a theatrical family. We didn't go to a lot of shows. I grew up on the beach -- being from San Diego. But that music was in our living room quite a bit. So, that was my introduction to musical theater.

Q: And since then you've played the role of Jesus so many times all over the country, both regionally and on tour. Does it ever get boring for you?
A: No. Not at all. I think I credit that to the material. I love it. It's challenging, but not overwhelmingly taxing on you. It's challenging, but when you hear the first chord of the show, you just go, you know? No matter how tired or sick you might be on any night, you just go out and do it.

Q: While we're on the subject, what's the most challenging part of playing Jesus of Nazareth?
A: That's a very hard question! I don't really know what the answer is. I mean it's... Jesus, you know? It can be a very taxing role vocally, if you're under the weather. But if you're healthy and ready to go, it's probably the most fun show you can do. It's just so fun to do.

Q: What's your favorite song from the show?
A: (Pauses in thought, then starts to sing) "I think you've made your point now..." "Could We Start Again, Please" is my favorite. It's a great song. It's underrated. It's sort of the alternative to "I Don't Know How to Love Him."

Q: Your thoughts on this -- why do you think JCS is still relevant and presented today?
A: I think it's because it's the greatest story ever told. I think that's it, really. It's the story, then the music and the lyrics. You know, even if there's a bad production of it, you can still get some good out of it. (Laughs) It's sort of like pizza in a way.

Q: Have you been influenced by the performances of previous actors, or do you generally try more to make the role your own?
A: Oh, I stole a lot of things from Ted Neeley. (Laughs) And I told him that when I met him on tour when we were in Nashville, I think it was. He came to see us for a day or two. Wonderful man, as everyone who has met him knows. When you hear something like that when you're young and impressionable, you tend to imitate that or borrow things. The first time I did the role, I think I was 25 and in St. Louis. I was worried about the short rehearsal process. So, learning the music, I just imitated what I remembered hearing. Eventually, I would make things my own. It has since grown and evolved. But that was my base. I think I still use some phrasing and inflections based on him. Why not?

Q: Wonderful that you brought up the St. Louis production. As Barry Dennen told us in a previous interview, he actually directed you in that production. What was it like working with him as a director?
A: As a director, he had a very special perspective. (Laughs) Not just as a director or just a director, but the history he has with the piece, not to mention the great stories he would share with you. So, we had the benefit of a director with a personal history with the piece, rather than a director who had to go and research everything. I remember one thing: We were rehearsing in these outdoor pavilions. And we were rehearsing, and I'm doing this song, and a thunderstorm started up! And leaves were blowing everywhere, and I thought that was cool. But he's a wonderful man to work with. Later on, as you know, I got to actually share the stage with him. Now, he didn't play Pilate to my Jesus. Of course, he had played that part on stage, but that's another story.

Q: Of course, you also starred in a national tour of the show from 2003-05 that is very familiar to JCS fans all over the U.S. and Canada. You must have been very surprised to get called in to replace the name draw on the revival tour. Were you informed of any of the circumstances, and if so, can you share what you heard with us here?
A: Yeah. I had a history with those producers. I had actually gone and auditioned for it, so they knew me and I was very lucky. I was also a temporary replacement until they got another "name" person in the role. Eventually, it turned out to me keeping the role. They liked what I was doing. About the circumstances... no, I didn't know a lot about what was going on. Things happened so fast. I think I had only a few days to get packed and ready to go. I had four days of rehearsal. I flew into Baltimore for a few days of rehearsal, then I opened in Boston. You know, I know the show so well that it was just a matter of learning the blocking, and a lot of it is -- with Jesus -- you just stand around, and the apostles are around you, and they just kind of move you around. (Laughs)

Q: How structured was the tour? Some reports have it that Really Useful was very strict about how the show should be performed.
A: Yeah... okay... I learned it the original way, I guess, so I really didn't stray too much from that. That show had a few different things that were specifically written for that -- you know, the ending of "Gethsemane" is different; there are a few other things that were, quote, "updated"; but those were done when the New York show went out. The whole thing where it drops down in "Gethsemane," that was a change our musical director made in the tour, you know, the part where Jesus goes: (Sings, in Balsamo style) "Alright...! I'll die...!" The little drop out was made on that tour.

Q: You worked with a line of extremely talented people on that tour. Can you give us some of your impressions of your fellow cast members, with special attention, of course, paid to Carl Anderson, Barry Dennen, and Danny Zolli?
A: Danny and I worked together a couple of times before that. We'd done Superstar twice before this one, so we were so excited to see each other again. I was excited to hear him sing Judas again. That was cool! And, of course, Carl -- going eye-to-eye with him... it still doesn't seem real to me. Looking into his eyes every night was a big thrill. You know, being a fan of the movie, it was like, "Did I really do that?" (Laughs) He was just a wonderful man and actor. He really raised the bar on the show. Also, Lawrence Clayton was great when he came in. We'd also done the show together before. We had a nickname -- a sort of inside thing -- for the tour. We called it the Love Tour. It was one of those things with that group of people... especially on the road, so much drama can happen. But here it was a very loving group of people. It was a very special time.

Q: Now you had the advantage of working with three very different men as Judas. Playing against Danny, Lawrence, or Carl, did your approach to the role of Jesus ever change?
A: The way the show is written, the roles of Judas, Mary, and Jesus are pretty well set, but all three were very different in how they played the role. That's the great thing about acting is that you get to work off of what gets thrown at you and that's fun. Natalie Toro was Mary throughout the tour. Carl was very... fatherly to us, I suppose you could say. He was like our "papa" on the tour, you know? And there was the little spitfire, Danny Zolli. So yeah, it definitely was an effective group of people to work with.

Q: Of course, the tour had its dark days as well. Do you remember where you were when you got the news that Carl had passed away?
A: Yeah, we were in Seattle. I believe he was doing less and less shows each week. It was a tough loss. We were his last cast. He was very proud of that show. I'm sure he was that way in the others he did, but he was open arms with us, and well-being, and wonderful.

Q: At the risk of asking a very loaded question, which productions did you enjoy more -- regional or the tour? Did you feel you had more freedom in one than in the other?
A: Wow! That is a loaded question. I think the last one I did -- the Love Tour -- would be my favorite. That group of people! Amazing.

Q: Speaking of tours, on an off-topic note, you worked on the U.S. tour of Whistle Down the Wind. One of our moderators wants to know, did Jim Steinman ever show up? If so, did you meet him and can you tell us what that was like?
A: Oh yes. Yes. He came to Hartford and let us know he was out there, so that was exciting. He also came backstage. I had no idea what to expect. He looked like your typical artist slash rock star. Very eccentric and cool. He said that he enjoyed the show, you know, the whole "good job" stuff.

Q: Well, that about wraps it up. Thank you for talking to us.
A: Thank you, Andy. It was my pleasure. It was good to see you again! [Simpson, who has been lucky enough to befriend Barry Dennen, was privileged to meet Barry, Danny Zolli (who was filling in for Carl Anderson), and Eric Kunze in person backstage when the tour passed through Ontario in 2003.--ed.] Thanks for coming to the show last night, and I look forward to talking to you again. I look forward to seeing this on the website, too. I have to say, honestly, I haven't thought about the show for years now, so this is kind of a cool trip back. I hope to do it again at some point. As you know, the rights are tied up with Broadway.

Q: Have you seen the Broadway revival? (NOTE: This interview was conducted in early May 2012. At this point, the Tony Awards appearance and the show's closure were not on the cards.--ed.)
A: No. I was in New York recently, but I went to see Porgy and Bess. If it's there throughout the summer, I'll definitely go and see it.

Q: You know, it's funny you mention the rights being tied up. I recently came very close to directing a concert version of JCS in my hometown with the Mississippi MUDDS [a local theater troupe], but I couldn't find a producer, so I had to pull the plug.
A: Well Andy, there's still lots of time in your life. You'll do it.

Q: Well, when I do, I'll be sure to invite some of the wonderful people whom I've met through the show to come and see my production of it -- you know, as a "thank you."
A: Yes, that would be cool. Keep me posted!

Little Mermaid Video Montage

Posted by California Musical Theater:

Friday, July 13, 2012

Eric Answers Your Questions

(From Maggi) Thanks to everyone who submitted questions for Eric recently.  I will begin posting his answers as he gets to them.  Here are the ones we have so far (in the order they were received):

Questions Part I:

What do you do for fun when you are not working on a show?
I go boating and spend time in Palm Springs

Are you planning to do another CD? If so, when can we hope to see it? We are wearing out the last one.
Yes - its in the works!

Will it be a Christmas CD?
No, but maybe in the next year or two

Have you ever wanted to write a musical?
No - not my thing.... maybe if I had an amazing idea.

Out of all your shows, which is your favorite song, and why?
Dont have one!

Do you hear us screaming after you finish a song, or should we scream louder? :-)  Louder is always good. LOL No, I usually dont get to hear what is heard in the audience. But its nice to know you are out there!

I have tried to imagine what it's like to step out on stage and see a few thousand people waiting to hear you speak or sing. Could you describe what that feels like for you? Depends how prepared you are. The more prepared - the more fun and relaxed

When you perform in a small theater and the audience is close, is it hard to keep focused when someone is doing something distracting?
Yes - but its always good to keep us on our toes and concentrate

Questions Part II:

Are you and Gina (Feliccia) planning any more concerts together?
We are planning workshops, but no concerts at this time.

Have you ever considered doing Jekyl and Hyde? I think you'd be really great in the lead of that musical.
I'm not really familiar with it, but it is going on tour in the coming months with McCoy/Rigby productions starring Constantine Maroulis from American Idol. Its should be a great production.

You'd make a fabulous Phantom. Do you hope to do that someday?
Yes - I DO hope to play Phantom some day. Its in my 5 year plan  ;-)

Between shows, do you still vocalize every day at home to keep in practice?
No, i try to rest vocally when Im not working and gear up a few weeks before I have the next show.

How do you feel about fans waiting for you at the stage door after performances?
I think its great - I just feel bad when I cant spend as much time as I would like!

What role that you have not played would you like to play?
Billy in "Carousel" is on my list...

Would you like someone to create an original musical theater role for you and what kind of role would you like it to be? That is in the works - its called "Brindlebeast" and its in the next phase of its development. More to come...

If you were not a performer, would you ever want to do a behind-the-scenes job--such as directing?
I have directed two pieces and it was very enjoyable. I like working with actors on that level as well as the technical aspect of putting together a show.

Where would you love to perform that you have not already been to?
Anywhere in Europe!!

What is your favorite food? Drink?
I have too many favorites - but I love Japanese food

What is the most unique and/or beautiful venue where you have performed?
The St Louis FOX theater is amazing, as well as The Kennedy Center in DC with Miss Saigon when I first joined the tour.

Where is your favorite place in the world?
St Barths Caribbean Island

When did you realize that you wanted to make singing/acting your career? Are you surprised at your success?
My senior year of High School. I'm constantly surprised and grateful to be working.

How do you keep balanced/grounded with all of your fame and success?
Easy - I don't have fame, and I have some success. ;-)

Will you be making more CDs??
(YES!! YES!!! YES!!!!)

What are some of your passions?
Architecture and the art of Real Estate

Do you ever get tired of doing the same show over and over again? How do you keep it fresh each night?
No - the pieces that I get to repeat often are ones that are GREAT pieces and very gratifying to do. I'm lucky that way.

Which role has been the most difficult for you to find access to or to play and why?
That would be "Whistle Down The Wind".  The character of The Man is very tormented, mysterious to the audience, and under extreme circumstances -personally, mentally and physically. (sounds like the "other" Jesus character)  ;-)
He only interacts with one character in the show, and that relationship is very delicate and complex. It was a very challenging, but ultimately rewarding piece on all levels - typical of Andrew Lloyd Weber!

Monday, July 9, 2012

Sunday, June 24, 2012

Questions for Eric?

Hello fans,
I've had several people ask me if we could update the interview page here on Eric's fansite. The last one was several years ago. So here is your chance! Send me your questions and I will ask Eric to answer them. I will be looking forward to coming to Sacramento and attending Little Mermaid after the fanclub dinner on Friday, July 20th. We can present him with the questions at that time and I will post his answers to the fansite after I get home.  You can post the questions as a comment reply to this post or email me directly at maggiwun@yahoo.com.
 
If you would like to join us for dinner in Sacramento on July 20th, let me know. The more the merrier!

Friday, June 15, 2012

See Eric in "The Little Mermaid" July 10th to 22nd in Sacramento


  "One of the most ravishing things I have seen on a Broadway stage."
Time Magazine
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Eric will be playing the role of Prince Eric in Sacramento Musical Theater's production of  the Broadway musical "The Little Mermaid", which runs for 16 performances from July 10th to 22nd.  Single tickets go on sale on May 7th.  (See ticket information below.)

A fanclub meeting/dinner will be held on Friday, July 20th before the show.  (Location to be announced). You don't need to attend the show to come to the fanclub meeting.  But I do need to put you on the guestlist if you are planning to attend the dinner.  (email me at maggiwun@yahoo.com) I am looking forward to seeing you all!  I'm hoping Eric will have time to come and say hi.


The Music Circus production of "The Little Mermaid" is a coup for Sacramento, as this will be the only city in the country outside New York to have a production. More reading about this new, original and revamped version streamlined to the unique Music Circus round stage here.
Background information and storyline on Wikipedia here.
Hear one of Prince Eric's songs on a YouTube version here.  Can't wait to hear our Eric sing this!

Ticket information and calendar at the California Musical Theater website.



Read more here: http://www.sacbee.com/2012/02/12/4252688/music-circus-brings-back-old-favorites.html#storylink=cpy

Friday, May 25, 2012

Vocal Master Class


A wonderful opportunity for aspiring young singers to work with the best.  Sponsored by Eric and Gina's Big City Broadway.  www.bigcitybroadway.com

Monday, May 14, 2012

Ottawa: A Retrospective

From Maggi:  After returning home from a five day trip to Ottawa and seeing the "Do You Hear the People Sing" concert three nights in a row I am still basking in the glow of hearing Eric sing in a venue and with an orchestra worthy of his talent.  He looked very handsome in his Hugo Boss tux, a fact noticed each night by the females around me in the audience when he walked onstage.  His song, the forceful "I'm Martin Guerre" from that musical and the angelic, tender, "Bring Him Home" from Les Mis were highlights for me.  Each night as he came in the lobby he was surrounded by admiring fans, young and old, male and female, hoping for an autograph and/or photo.  It's a shame this concert wasn't taped to show the world.  It was certainly as good as many things that are shown on PBS.  Now that I am home, I am grateful for the many sweet memories I have to cherish.  Thank you Eric!

Photos by Maggi Wunschl 
(To download click on the yellow icon in the left bottom corner, which will take you to my Picasa Web Album)

Sunday, May 13, 2012

Tales from the Front: Day Three


What an amazing end to an amazing concert!   The chemistry onstage, along with the energy from the audience made the atmosphere electric and the audience responded with thunderous applause and three standing ovations.  On the way out of the auditorium I could hear people commenting on the excellent performances, and in particular "that man who sang 'Bring Me Home".   Eric, Lea Terrance and Kathy were inundated for autographs and photos and business was brisk at the CD table.  It was an exhilarating evening!

Saturday, May 12, 2012

Tales from the Front: Day Two

From Maggi: the weather was much nicer today, with warmer temps enabling us to enjoy a tulip walk and lunch at a great little place in Byward Market.  The concert tonight was as good, if not better than last evening with the added bonus of an onstage surprise visit of Alain Boublil.  The audience was very appreciative of the performers and responded by long standing ovations.  Once again, the auditorium seemed to be filled to capacity.  The cast was in the lobby afterward signing autographs and we met several new Eric fans, among them Shirley and Andrew (pictured here.)




We had the privilege of meeting Alain Boublil and his lovely wife Marie Zamora

Friday, May 11, 2012

Review: Do You Hear the People Sing - A Concert Celebrating the Work of Boublil and Schonberg, Performing Arts Center, Ottawa, Canada - May 9-12, 2012

It was a nine hour drive across the border to Ottawa from Detroit, Michigan, but I wouldn't have missed for the world the opportunity to hear Eric Kunze's heavenly tenor once again.  The beautiful auditorium at the Performing Arts Center, with its excellent acoustics, was the perfect venue for the outstanding voices we heard on Thursday evening.  Having ordered tickets for two of the nights online months ago, I wasn't intending to attend Thursday's performance as well, but knowing Eric was singing, I just couldn't stay away.  We were sitting in the "nose bleed" section of the upper balcony, due to the fact the 2323 seat theater was nearly sold out.  Despite our altitude we could hear every note and every word. 

The audience was engaged from the first few notes of the orchestra's specially written overture, composed of snippets of the shows for which Boublil and Schonberg are famous, a foreshadowing of what was to come.  Each of the songs were introduced with personal anecdotes and banter between the artist and conductor Jack Everly.  The excellent Terrance Mann opened the Miss Saigon set with Bui Doi, accompanied by the thrilling men's chorus of the Ottawa Festival Chorus.  Jack Everly introduced Lea Salonga, who began her career at the age of 17 as Kim in the first Miss Saigon.  Eric (as Marius) and Lea (as Eponine) starred together on Broadway in Les Miserables and haven't sung together since.  After so many years, the magic was still there as they sang the romantic Last Night of the World. Her dramatic I'd Give my Life for You conveyed the heartbreak of a single mother giving up her only child, with a mature understanding and interpretation of the lyrics that only life experience can bring. 

I was excited to hear Eric sing from Martin Guerre and the title song didn't disappoint.  The lyric intensive song told a story, accompanied by forceful vocals and Eric was transformed into Martin himself.  I would love to see him play this role!  It was followed by his duet with Marie Zamora, Live With Someone You Love (also from the same musical), their voices blending perfectly.

The second half brought music from The Pirate Queen, which starred Kathy Voytko on Broadway. Her sparkling rendition of Woman made me wish I could see this musical again.  She and Eric performed If I Said I Loved You from that show. 

Saving the best for last, the Les Miserables set included, in part, On My Own, At the End of the Day, Master of the House (hilariously performed by Mann and Voytko) and Stars (Mann).  A Heart Full of Love gave us a chance to imagine what it would have been like to see Eric as Marius.  He not only sings but conveys the emotion which transforms him into the characters he is singing about.  When Eric started singing Bring Him Home, an etherial hush fell over the audience.  We almost held our breath, not wanting to break the spell he wove over us.  The notes wafted up into the rafters and brought tears to my eyes.  How is it humanly possible to sing like this?  As the song ended there was a pause, allowing the moment to linger, before the audience erupted into thunderous applause.

The finale, One Day More, brought the entire cast, orchestra and chorus together for a thrilling conclusion to this concert of excellence.  The audience was on its feet for a rousing ovation as the cast bowed, exited and returned to the stage once again.  The encore was, obviously, Do You Hear the People Sing, again to ovations and thunderous applause from the appreciative crowd.  Yes, we definitely heard the people sing.  It was an honor and a privilege to be a part of this wonderful evening.  (Written by Maggi Wunschl)

Thursday, May 10, 2012

Tales from the front: Ottawa



Terrance Mann, Kathy Voytko, Eric Kunze

National Arts Center

Hi fans,
I am in chilly Ottawa ready to see the first performance of "Do You Hear the People Sing - the Dream Concert" tonight.  It was an overcast day and temps no more than around 50 degrees.  Had breakfast at the Mayflower Cafe on Elgin Street and walked about two miles to the Museum of Civilization.  Resting now in the room before heading over to the National Arts Center for the concert.  I will report fully after today's performance and probably will be adding more on the two subsequent nights.  I feel very lucky to be able to be here enjoying another stellar Eric performance! 
Talk to you soon,
Maggi

Thursday, April 26, 2012

At the Meyerhoff in Baltimore

Backstage at the Baltimore Symphony after the concert.
Left to right: Kathy Voytko, Marie Zamora, Alain Boubill, Terrence Mann, Jennifer Paz, Eric Kunze at Baltimore Symphony.

photo by Charles Stubow

Monday, April 23, 2012

What an Evening it Was!

A glowing review of Baltimore's "Do You Hear the People Sing" by Charles Stubow from www.broadwayworld.com:


"What an evening it was. A cast of five phenomenal voices accompanied by the huge Baltimore Symphony Orchestra under the baton of Jack Evely, Principal Pops Conductor, accompanied by the Baltimore Choral Arts Society (Tom Hall Director) singing the canon of the great French musical composers Alain Boublil and Claude Michel Schoenberg. Who could ask for anything more... 

It was an evening of non-stop hit after hit after hit. Many in the audience may not be Broadway afficionadoes or familiar with the music presented, but the audience was spell-bound by the five soloists: Eric Kunze, Jennifer Paz, Kathy Voytko, and Marie Zamora and the incredible Terrence Mann."

Be sure to read Page 2 which reads, in part,
"Bring Him Home was performed brilliantly by Kunze."
and goes on to describe the thrilling conclusion of the concert.

Read more here 

Sunday, April 22, 2012

Fan Reviews of Do You Hear the People Sing - The Dream Concert

(From Maggi) This is some of the feedback from the series of concerts in Baltimore this weekend.  Thank you ALL for your input!

Susanne:   If I told you that the concert was phenomenal, it would still be an understatement! Where do I even start to tell you about it! The goosebumps started when the orchestra played some selections from Miss Saigon as the overture. Eric came out after Terrence Mann and Jennifer Paz each sang a song.  He looked quite handsome in a black suit and shirt and later in a tuxedo.  I was completely mesmerized when Eric sang, "Bring Him Home". How does he hit those notes so effortlessly? I was so taken with the power of his voice. I kept thinking that it's Broadway's loss if they don't sign him for Phantom.  Many times during the night I had to catch my breath when I heard his ability to push that wonderful voice to the limit! He just keeps getting better and better.

Jeannine: I really enjoyed this show.. The conductor, chorus, and orchestra did a phenomenal job, as did Eric, Terrence, Jennifer, Kathy and Marie. The show opened with one of my all time favorite songs, Bui Doi, from Miss Saigon…Terrence Mann and the choir were beautifully powerful. “Last Night of the World” sung by Eric and Jennifer was just amazing…They showed such a high level of chemistry and comfort with each other, obviously a result of their working together as Kim and Chris through the years, that I was drawn into the storyline wholeheartedly. The audience was told that there would be a concert version of Miss Saigon in 2013, something I would love to see! Kathy debuted a new song called “Maybe” that helps the audience understand some of the angst her character, Ellen, goes through. She did an excellent job with this song. Jennifer also did a great job with "Too much for one heart." It would have been nice to have it stay in the final version of Miss Saigon. Not being familiar with Martin Guerre, I was interested in hearing Eric sing “Martin Guerre.” As always, his clear diction and pronounciation, helped to draw me into the story he and Marie were telling. I also enjoyed Marie, singing in both French and English during “In My Life..” So beautiful… One of 2 highlights for me was being able to hear/see Eric sing the role of “Marius” during this concert, especially as I had never had the opportunity to see him as Marius on Broadway (his first role there J) “Master of the House” was a fun number, as always, and Kathy and Terrence did a great job with it. As I had seen Terrence Mann on Bway, in Les Mis, as Javert, it was a treat to hear him sing “Stars” again.. such a tragic song. The piece de resistance for me was hearing Eric’s version of “Bring Him Home.” He always acts through his songs, in my opinion, vs. just singing a song to get to the end, which definitely draws me into the story and engages me in whatever song he is singing, especially beautiful and well done, with this song. I wish I could hear it again and again—so, so, so expressive.. brought me to tears. I really loved that Alain Boublil performed at the end, with the ensemble.. This was a top notch production that had me wishing for more!


Anita: (Brindlebeast) from last night: "Do You Hear the People Sing" concert with the Baltimore Symphony last night. Eric Kunze sang the iconic prayer "Bring Him Home" from Les Mis to thunderous applause , bravo-- and a handshake from the conductor. Brought me to tears...

Riki: "Hi! Finally home, and let me tell you- that concert made every minute of the last couple crazy days worth it!!! There aren't words to tell you how awesome it was- all the rumblings you have heard are true and more! The whole cast is immensely talented! There were several songs that I had never heard before; that was a treat. Eric gets more talented every time I hear him! He sang a couple of standard faves, but for me the highlights of the night were Martin Guerre - it made one want to jump up, throw your fist in the air and cheer with him! The wedding song from The Pirate Queen made me cry, it was so sweet and poignant! Wow, just wow..... I can honestly say, that out of all the things I've seen yet- this was by far the best!!!! Wish I could see it again!
He did a couple duets with Marie Zamora that were new to me and absolutely beautiful. Have I said wow enough yet? I am still blown away and it has been almost 24 hours!

Friday, April 20, 2012

Miss Saigon Review

A review of last year's Sacramento Music Circus' "Miss Saigon" states what we Eric fans already know: "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." http://www.davisenterprise.com/entertainment/dont-miss-this-miss-saigon/ 

Eric will be back at Music Circus again this summer.  Stay tuned for all the details!

Thursday, April 19, 2012

Break a leg at the Meyerhoff!

Tonight's performance of "Do You Hear the People Sing?" with the Baltimore Symphony will be at the beautiful Meyerhoff Symphony Hall through Sunday.  The hall has a capacity of 2443 people!
Break a leg Eric and the cast and crew!  We know you are going to be wonderful! Looking forward to a report and hopefully some pictures from fanclub members Anita, Jeannine, Courtney, Susanne and Sherri who will be attending. It turns out the programs for the Pittsburgh and Baltimore concerts were printed before Eric was hired. As a result the program lists Peter Lockyer instead of Eric Kunze.

Talent Shines in Pops Tribute

Even if there was an error in this article, I am putting a link here for you to read. It was Eric, not Peter Lockyer, on stage that night. Don't miss the remaining concerts in this wonderful series! See post below for details and ticket information.

"Do You Hear the People Sing" featured an exceptionally strong roster of vocalists, all of whom projected their words with the utmost clarity. (Jennifer) Paz sang "Last Night of the World" with tenor Peter Lockyer, [from Maggi: this is SUPPOSED TO READ "ERIC KUNZE", not Peter Lockyer] a colleague she'd met in the first touring company of "Miss Saigon." He was a persuasive romantic leading man, yet also had the steel for the song "Martin Guerre."




Read more here.

Thursday, April 12, 2012

Eric at Heinz Hall

Hi fans!  A little pre-concert treat from our Eric, who is preparing for the opening tonight of "Do You Hear the People Sing - the Dream Concert" at Heinz Hall in Pittsburgh:

Opening Tonight, April 12th! "Do You Hear the People Sing - The Dream Concert

Break a leg Eric and cast and crew of "Do You Hear the People Sing"!

Eric fans, this is our "Dream Concert" come true.  Eric will be joining four other artists singing the wonderful music of the creators of Les Mis, Saigon, Martin Guerre, Pirate Queen with four different symphonies. 

Locations and dates are as follows:
April 12, 13, 14 & 15, 2012, Pittsburgh Symphony, Heinz Hall,Pittsburgh, PA
Tickets       
April 19, 2012, Baltimore Symphony, The Music Center atStrathmore, Bethesda, MD
Tickets
April 20, 21 & 22, 2012,Baltimore Symphony, Joseph MeyerhoffSymphony Hall, Baltimore, MD
Tickets
May 10, 11 & 12, 2012, National Arts Centre Orchestra, SouthamHall, Ottawa, ON, Canada
Tickets

Eric and Lea Salonga on Broadway in "Les Miserables"


More information:  http://thepeoplesing.com/

Wednesday, March 28, 2012

Do You Hear the People Sing in Dallas, Texas



Photos and a write-up of the Dallas version of Do You Hear the People Sing, which is playing across the country at different venues.  This is a little preview of the treat in store for those of us lucky enough to attend this concert in Pittsburgh, Baltimore, Bethesda or Ottawa with Eric Kunze.

Saturday, March 10, 2012

Do You Hear the People Sing (Concert Review from Oct. 2011)

Here is a review of the first performance of "Do You Hear the People Sing - the Dream Concert", which was first done in October 2011. I don't know if this is the exact song order of the show Eric will doing in April and May, but it give you a pretty good idea of what a wonderful and thrilling concert this will be!

Tuesday, February 7, 2012

Eric Kunze sings "Maria"

From Maggi:
Here is a little treat I put together for all Eric's fans.  Watch it here or directly on YouTube.  Enjoy!