Hey MMT Fam! I pray that everyone reading is safe and that you are prepared for the long haul, of dealing with this COVID-19 virus, with all the essentials needed. Life has changed, but if we all are following the rules and continuing to care for each other, as so many positive videos have shown, we will make it to the other side of this.
For those who have personally experienced any coronavirus health-related issues, loss loved ones, and/or are trying to cope while being immuno-compromised, I pray this immediate prayer for you – asking God to heal, comfort, deliver, and strengthen every area of your lives, Amen.
Now, let’s get to the post business! Since we all are mostly at home right now, with the exception of our essential “superheroes,” I’ve been putting a lot of streaming options up on the MMT Facebook page. But I thought it best to start posting some of the information I was receiving via email here. So check out this cool list of happenings, and let me know your thoughts if you participate in or watch any of the streams!
First up is the new virtual experience for Wizard World. They’ve already started, sharing video (click hyperlink) for the “Supernatural” event featuring cast members Mark Sheppard, Ruth Connell, Emily Swallow, Tim Omundson, and Sebastian Roche. The next event will feature cast from “Once Upon a Time,” including Jared Gilmore (“Henry Mills”), Sean Maguire (“Robin Hood”) and Lee Arenberg (“Grumpy”), and is taking place this Saturday beginning at 3 p.m. ET/noon PT. You can get more details by visiting the official website here. There will be free group video, plus paid breakout sessions for fans.
Next up is the free streaming of musicals from one of the (if not the) most famed composers of our time – Mr. Andrew Lloyd Webber. Today, the new THE SHOWS MUST GO ON YouTube Channel was announced, and will provide theatre lovers with a West End and Broadway experience in their own homes, online for free.
Starting Friday, April 3, THE SHOWS MUST GO ON will make available a selection of Webber’s musicals, launching with one of the most enduring shows of all time, JOSEPH AND THE AMAZING TECHNICOLOUR DREAMCOAT. The 2000 adaptation, inspired by the West End production, stars Donny Osmond, Maria Friedman, Richard Attenborough and Joan Collins.
Each show will be available weekly at 11:00AM PT/2:00PM ET for a limited 48-hour period online – no charge or sign up required – giving fans of musical theatre an opportunity to enjoy beloved shows, from their living rooms.
The second production available will be the legendary rock classic JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR (2012) just in time for Easter on Good Friday, April 10 – with the arena production starring Tim Minchin, Melanie C and Chris Moyles.
Additional shows are to be announced and uploaded to the channel regularly, alongside full-length shows, clips of famous performances and behind-the-scenes footage, so fans can continue to get their theatre fix at home.
For fans who wish to make a charitable donation, a variety of organizations will be listed on THE SHOWS MUST GO ON full-length YouTube channel videos, including: Acting for Others, Broadway Cares and Actors Benevolent Fund.
Lastly, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame is sharing its Class of 2019 induction videos, with full, uncut video releases of all performances and speeches. You can watch the ceremony now on its website & YouTube channel. The 2020 inductees are scheduled to be celebrated on November 7.
Alright MMT family, that’s all for now. Keep me in your prayers and thoughts, and know that you are certainly in mine!
Until next thought, Thomasena
PS – I was so happy Janet Jackson (finally) and Stevie Nicks made the Rock Hall Class of 2019! Here’s a great performance by Ms. Nicks from the ceremony: