Neil Pond
Updated on: October 9, 2024 2:43 am GMT
Celebrated Cast Takes Center Stage in New York’s The Boy From Oz
Blake McIver Ewing, recognized for his roles in *Full House* and *The Little Rascals*, alongside Marcia Mitzman Gaven, known for her work in *The Who’s Tommy*, will star in the much-anticipated production of *The Boy From Oz* in Rochester, New York. This biographical musical about the life of Peter Allen will run from September 12 to 29 at the OFC Creations Theatre Center, marking its first New York State performance since its Broadway debut in 2003.
A Musical Journey Through Stardom
*The Boy From Oz*, with a book by Martin Sherman and Nick Enright and featuring classic songs by Peter Allen, explores the vibrant life of the celebrated Australian entertainer. The musical chronicles Allen’s ascent to fame, his close friendship with Judy Garland, his marriage to her daughter Liza Minnelli, and his struggles with health and personal tragedies during the AIDS crisis.
Star-Studded Talent Takes the Stage
Ewing leads the cast as Peter Allen, bringing a wealth of experience from childhood stardom to theater. He will share the stage with Marcia Mitzman Gaven, portraying Judy Garland. Their reunion is particularly poignant, as the two actors last starred together in the 1997 American premiere of *Ragtime*, where Gaven played the role of Mother, and Ewing played her son, Edgar.
This production will also feature:
- Channing Weir as Liza Minnelli
- Laura Jean Diekmann as Marion Woolnough
- Tripp Hanson as Dee Anthony
- Jack Saleeby as Greg Connell
- Jacob Anspach as Chris Bell
- Brett Cole Young as Mark Herron
- Cameron Korzinski as Young Peter
- Jack Hartman as the Young Peter understudy
- Nellie Cotrupe, Sam Guida, Qawiyya Haqq, Claire Kennard, Julia Polisoto, and Rico Velasquez in ensemble roles
The Return of a Beloved Musical
Since its original Broadway production starring Hugh Jackman, *The Boy From Oz* has meant a great deal to both fans and participants alike. The upcoming staging in Rochester not only resonates as a nostalgic revival but also as a statement piece for LGBTQ+ theater. The story emphasizes the impact of the AIDS crisis on the arts community, a poignant theme that remains relevant today.
Adey in the Director’s Chair
Directed by Eric Vaughan Johnson, this new interpretation of *The Boy From Oz* is poised to engage audiences with its emotional depth and the timeless appeal of Allen’s music. Johnson’s previous work has received acclaim, making him a fitting choice to navigate the complex narrative of Allen’s life.
Find Your Seats!
Tickets for *The Boy From Oz* are available through the OFC Creations Theatre Center. Despite the production’s limited run, excitement is palpable in the local community as fans of theater and Allen gather to celebrate this unique performance opportunity. For those interested, avoid missing out on this chance to witness a piece of theatrical history being brought to life once more.
For further updates on this production and more live events, connect with theater resources or sign up for alerts through platforms like [TheaterMania](https://www.theatermania.com/) to keep abreast of the latest theater offerings.
The revival of *The Boy From Oz* features the talented Ewing and Gaven. This show not only honors Allen’s legacy but also brings something special to local theater. It invites audiences to enjoy a story filled with happiness, music, and meaningful memories.
