"Shrek-Tacular"
Published: January 25, 2012
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Why travel nearly 75 miles into Manhattan to be entertained by the bright lights and offerings of Broadway when an equally superb theater-going experience awaits some 48 miles to the north?
The Scranton Cultural Center at The Masonic Temple is home to the Broadway Theatre League of Northeastern Pennsylvania where, throughout its history, many pre-and post-Broadway tours and countless stars of stage and screen have graced the stage, entertaining the masses for generations.
Broadway Theatre began in 1959, established by the late Benno and Gertrude Levy. It was the Levys' love for theater that prompted their desire to provide access to the citizens of Northeast Pennsylvania.
In 2000, the Broadway Theatre League joined forced with multiple Tony Award-winning producer and president of NAC Entertainment Albert Nocciolino. NAC has producing interest in many touring and Broadway shows.
Because of this partnership, the Broadway Theatre League of Northeastern Pennsylvania is the best alternative for Broadway - and the most bang for your buck!
Take, for example, this month's presentation of "Shrek The Musical," based on the famously funny and successful Dreamworks animation franchise.
The show stopped in Scranton and wooed each audience for five performances, with tickets ranging in price from $37-$60.
One would think to automatically expect less or subpar sound, sets, costumes and talent. However, children (including this 34-year-old kid at heart) and adults of all ages, even those well into their 70s, seated next to me, couldn't get enough of the exceptional offering. Looking around the packed Scranton Cultural Center made one thing clear - Broadway Theatre had done it again, bringing the best entertainment to Northeast Pa.
Wyalusing native Lukas Poost led the adventure in the title role as "Shrek" an ogre who ends up rescuing and falling for Princess Fiona. The unlikely pair are joined on their journey through a magical wonderland by a cast of film favorites including "Donkey," "Gingy" and "Pinocchio."
The Broadway Theatre League of Northeastern Pennsylvania has a few more shows slated for the remaining season, including "Rain: A Tribute to the Beatles" from February 24-26, "South Pacific" from March 23-25 and "Young Frankenstein" from May 18-20.
Tickets and more information for upcoming shows are available at the box office, online at www.ticketmaster.com or over the phone at 800-745-3000.
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