High Heels and High Notes: Kinky Boots at DTC

By Jeff Gudzune
Jeff writes book reviews for a variety of publishers and is active in community theater. Since 2013, Jeff has owned and operated Matrix Notary Service.

With equal parts sass and sizzle, Delaware Theater Company’s production of Kinky Boots took the stage Saturday night. It was a sold-out crowd for the most anticipated musical of the season. Based on the 2005 film, Kinky Boots is a musical comedy centered on the unlikely pairing of boot-maker Charlie and drag queen Lola. The premise alone is unique enough to tantalize this theatergoer. I was already clutching my pearls. 

Kinky Boots playing now at DTC. Photo by Matt Urban, NüPOINT Marketing

What happened on the stage Saturday evening was nothing short of magical. Kinky Boots is more than a show, it’s an experience. It’s something that speaks to the dreamer within us all. It’s a challenge to live one’s truth.

With a short expository song introducing the characters as young men, the show quickly escalates into a fast-paced riotous explosion of emotions. When Charlie is forced to take over the family business, he is unprepared for the rocky road ahead of him. The factory that has been in his family for four generations is in danger of closure due to shaky economic times. Realizing his family firm will not survive, Charlie informs his employees that he must let them all go. In a shocking and hilarious reversal, each employee gives Charlie a microeconomics lesson that motivates him to find a new way of doing business. A chance encounter with Lola outside a drag club in London creates a partnership that rocks the industry.

The Delaware Theater Company partnered with New Light Theater to bring about this amazing production. Every aspect of this production was carefully managed to provide an awe-inspiring theatrical experience. The stage itself was its own character, contributing to the mood of the performance. 

 A two-story rendering of the factory floor with movable equipment pieces and a second-story office provide a bold visual. The use of a long slanting staircase allowed for emotional moments during solo numbers, juxtaposing a physical descent with an emotional revelation. The stage is a prime example of a great use of space and brought an added undercurrent to the production.

There are no stars in this production. By that I mean everyone stands out in their own way. There are main characters, tertiary figures, and ensemble members — all of whom are amazing in their contributions. Adam Hoyak (Charlie) transforms from reserved and uncertain to passionate and determined. Rachel Maselek (Lauren) is not only hilarious in her role but manages to bring an equal amount of comedy and longing to her numbers as she gradually falls for Charlie. Cookie Diorio (Lola) has a stage presence that can be felt in the dark and a voice that resonates to the back of the house. The Angels were more than backup dancers, they were a show of their own. The ensemble factory members each brought character traits to their silent yet vital roles.

Kinky Boots was a wonderful and unique breath of fresh air in a world where entertainment consists of zombies, viral pandemics, dystopias, and other apocalyptic ephemera. 

Additional performances of Kinky Boots are:

• Wednesday, October 2, @ 2:00pm
• Thursday, October 3 @ 7:00pm
• Friday, October 4 @ 7:00pm
• Saturday, October 5 @ 2:00pm
• Saturday, October 5 @ 7:30pm
• Sunday, October 6 @ 2:00pm
• Wednesday, October 9 @ 2:00pm
• Thursday, October 10 @ 7:00pm
• Friday, October 11 @ 7:00pm
• Saturday, October 12 @ 2:00pm
• Saturday, October 12 @ 7:30pm
• Sunday, October 13 @ 2:00pm

Ticket prices range from $32-$90. Visit DelawareTheatre.org to purchase!

We're Head Over Heels for Bootless' Final Season Kickoff

By Mike Logothetis
Theater reviewer Mike Logothetis grew up in North Wilmington, performing in school and local theater productions. He lives in Newark, but you can find him wherever the arts are good.

Bootless Stageworks kicks off its twenty-second and final [sniffle...] season with a lively production of Head Over Heels, a jukebox musical that fuses the plot of The Countess of Pembroke's Arcadia – a 16th Century work by Sir Philip Sidney – and the music of The Go-Go’s.

The multi-faceted love story features the all-female group’s hit songs “We Got the Beat,” “Our Lips Are Sealed,” and “Vacation” plus Belinda Carlisle’s solo efforts “Heaven is a Place on Earth” and “Mad About You.” Many people in the seats sang along to the tunes they loved as radio staples in the 1980s.

A mash-up of posh and punk, Head Over Heels is an unpredictable romp about what happens when the court of Arcadia is threatened by the mystical Oracle with the loss of its “Beat,” the divine power that ensures the kingdom’s prosperity. In order to save their beloved realm, the royal family embarks on an extravagant journey wrought with mistaken identities, jealous lovers, sexual awakening, scandal, and self-discovery. Not everything and everyone are what they seem.

Diving into the intricacies of the plot would be foolhardy and though some subtle wordplay got lost in the theater space, the audience joyously followed the broad antics of the company.

Will Rotsch was a standout player as the kindhearted shepherd Musidorus. A highlight of the show was a disguised Musidorus tempting both King Basilius (John Jerbasi) and Queen Gynecia (Tara Herweg) simultaneously during the lovely duet “This Old Feeling.” Rotsch’s physical humor – wielding his crook, acting as an Amazon warrior, etc. – and his warm yet powerful vocals made his character one to root for.

Princesses Pamela (Samantha McNerney) and Philoclea (Maria Leonetti) were strong individually and as sisters encouraging each other in their quests for true love. Kudos to Director Andrew Dean Laino for his use of a faux mirror during “Beautiful” when Pamela sings of her beauty while Philoclea is supporting her in their chambers. Leonetti and McNerney have big voices, but use them differently – McNerney tended to be more rock-heavy (“How Much More”) while Leonetti vocalized more gently throughout. Both styles were appropriate for the characters they portrayed.

The Oracle Pythio (Nathan Hale) was a commanding presence with a booming voice while donning Costume Designer Rosanne DellAversano’s extravagant outfits. “Vision of Nowness” was a fun ensemble number led by Pythio as was “Heaven is a Place on Earth” – where a projected screen insinuated some amorous activities afoot.

The cast was rounded out by Aubrey Murphy (Mopsa), Sedric Willis (Dametus), Rosanne DellAversano (Ensemble), Genevieve Francis (Ensemble), Abbey Ketterling (Ensemble), and Jen Rotsch (Ensemble).

Musical standouts included “Our Lips Are Sealed” and “Head Over Heels” but the highpoint was “Mad About You.” Shepherd Musidorus proclaims his unconditional love for Philoclea in a field…with sheep…singing the backup chorus, “Maaaaaad about you,” like baa-ing sheep would sing. The audience ate it up.

Music Director James W. Fuerst led a talented band who both played behind the actors and let those great Go-Go’s riffs break through. There was a lot of foot-tapping going on.

Head Over Heels preaches unconditional love and acceptance of yourself and everyone you know, no matter their gender or sexual identity. And there’s a happy ending. And it has a rockin’ soundtrack.

The performance schedule of Head Over Heels, The Musical is:

• Saturday, September 28 @ 8:00pm
• Sunday, September 29 @ 3:00pm
• Friday, October 3 @ 7:30pm
• Saturday, October 4 @ 8:00pm
• Sunday, October 5 @ 8:00pm

Tickets start at $31 and tickets can be purchased via website (https://www.bootless.org/hoh/) or by calling Bootless Stageworks at 302.887.9300. Tickets are also available at the door, subject to availability. The run time is approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes which includes one 15-minute intermission. Bootless Stageworks offers a full selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks plus some snacks at its concessions stand. The theater space is in the basement of St. Stephen’s Lutheran Church at 1301 N. Broom Street in Wilmington.

I encourage you to “celebrate the [final] season” of theater at Bootless Stageworks filled with the “Beat.”

Hassan Najjar Appointed Executive Director of the Biggs Museum of American Art

The content of this post comes from a press release from the Biggs Museum of Art...

The Biggs Museum of American Art is proud to announce the appointment of Hassan Najjar as its new Executive Director. With a distinguished career in the arts and museum management, Najjar's leadership marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for the Biggs.

Hassan Najjar, Executive Director of the Biggs Museum.
Photo provided by the Biggs Museum. 

Najjar joins the Biggs from the Foothills Art Center in Golden, Colorado, where he served as Executive Director. His tenure at Foothills was marked by transformative initiatives that enhanced the Center's community engagement, expanded its programs, and significantly increased its funding base. Under Najjar's leadership, Foothills Art Center became a beacon of arts and culture in the region, with notable achievements in community-building efforts, responsive programming, and using arts as driver of economic development.  

"We are thrilled to welcome Hassan Najjar to the Biggs," said Wilma Mishoe, President of the Biggs Museum Board of Trustees. "Hassan's vision, experience, and commitment to the arts are exactly what we need to propel the Biggs into a new era. His proven track record of success, particularly at the Foothills Art Center, demonstrates his ability to lead an institution to new heights, and we are confident that his leadership will bring fresh energy and innovation to our museum."

Hassan Najjar's appointment was the culmination of a competitive nationwide search led by Arts Consulting Group (ACG), engaged by the Biggs Museum Board to recruit the next Executive Director of the Museum. Najjar's deep experience in museum management and museum education, board governance, and financial management, combined with his passion for creating inclusive, equitable, and diverse communities, set him apart as the ideal candidate for the role.

In his role as Executive Director of the Foothills Arts Center, Najjar worked in a public/private partnership to rehabilitate historic landmarks and double the size of the facility, demonstrating that he is well-equipped to lead the Biggs through its expansion, which will connect historic buildings on its campus gifted to the Museum from the State of Delaware.

Jorge Zamanillo, President of the American Alliance of Museums, also expressed his enthusiasm for Najjar's new position. "Hassan Najjar is a respected leader in the museum community, and his appointment as Executive Director of the Biggs Museum is a significant win for both the museum and the broader arts community. His innovative approach and dedication to advancing the arts will undoubtedly benefit the Biggs and its audiences. We look forward to seeing the impact of his leadership in Dover."

Najjar's career in the arts spans several prestigious roles, including Executive Director of the Museum Center at 5ive Points in Cleveland, TN, and Assistant Curator of Education at the Hunter Museum of American Art in Chattanooga, TN. His expertise in curating engaging educational programs, managing diverse teams, and securing significant financial support will be invaluable as he leads the Biggs into its next phase.

"I am deeply honored to join the Biggs Museum of American Art as its next Executive Director," said Najjar. "The Biggs is a remarkable institution with a rich history and an exciting future. I look forward to working with the Board, staff, and community to build on the museum's successes and to explore new opportunities for growth and innovation."

Najjar's appointment marks a pivotal moment for the Biggs Museum, as it continues to enhance its role as a cultural leader in Delaware and beyond. His leadership promises to bring new perspectives, dynamic programming, and a renewed commitment to serving the diverse communities of Dover and the surrounding region.

ABOUT THE BIGGS MUSEUM OF ART
The Biggs Museum of American Art is a dynamic, accredited, art museum in Dover, Delaware, founded in 1993 by collector Sewell C. Biggs. The Biggs Museum is nationally recognized for its exceptional collections of American decorative arts of Delaware and the Mid-Atlantic region, and for its collections of American art from 1700 to today. The Museum engages audiences through a compelling program of collection based and temporary exhibitions plus encourages the development of creativity and an appreciation for art by offering a comprehensive slate of educational programming for all ages. The Biggs Museum of American Art is a private, non-profit 501(c) (3) organization.

Visit www.thebiggsmuseum.org to learn more.

Kuumba Academy Announces New School Leader

The content of this post comes from a press release from Kuumba Academy Charter School...

The Kuumba Academy School Board is excited to announce the appointment of Dr. Natakie Chestnut-Lee as the new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Kuumba Academy Charter School, effective August 19, 2024.

Dr. Natakie Chestnut-Lee, new CEO of Kuumba Academy.
Photo provided by Kuumba Academy. 

Following an extensive and highly competitive search process incorporating input from staff and parents, Dr. Chestnut-Lee emerged as the ideal leader to guide the school into a new era of excellence. She brings with her a strategic vision, a deep passion for education, and a steadfast dedication to advancing the success of the professional team and student body.

Chestnut-Lee is a third-generation educator and proud HBCU graduate who combines analytical thinking with creativity, cultural grounding, and transparency. With over 20 years of experience in public, private, and charter school settings across Pennsylvania and New Jersey, she is a consensus-building, solution-oriented academic leader. "I am confident in my ability to lead Kuumba Academy to new heights of academic excellence and operational efficiency," she shared.

Throughout her career, Chestnut-Lee has consistently demonstrated strong leadership in coaching and managing adult outcomes, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and professional growth among educators and staff. Her previous roles included implementing comprehensive professional development programs that significantly enhanced instructional practices and leadership skills, resulting in improved teacher effectiveness and student outcomes. By pairing experienced educators with new teachers through a mentorship approach, she has increased both retention rates and job satisfaction.

"By creating a collaborative and supportive environment, I empower teachers to take ownership of their professional development, leading to increased innovation in the classroom and improved student performance," Chestnut-Lee said. 

Chestnut-Lee introduced a comprehensive multi-tiered system of support (MTSS) that provided differentiated instruction, and interventions tailored to individual students' needs. This approach led to measurable improvements in academic outcomes, particularly among students with diverse learning needs. 

"Through these efforts, we saw significant gains in standardized test scores, increased graduation rates, and a reduction in the achievement gap between different student groups," said Chestnut-Lee. "My commitment to data-driven strategies and collaborative leadership plays a crucial role in these positive outcomes, demonstrating my ability to drive meaningful improvements in student achievement."

Chestnut-Lee’s extensive credentials include a background in dance arts, special education, adult education, criminal justice, school culture, and educational leadership. She has published several works, including her Walden University dissertation titled 'U.S. Teachers’ Perceptions on School Violence Programs' (2016), and more recently, the 2023 STEM Coloring and Activity Book, Piper and Tabia’s Journey to Egypt (a three-book Multicultural STEM series, 2023), Infusion Coloring Book (2023), and an eleven-journal collection (2023). 

Please join the Kuumba School Board, Sally Maldonado, Chief Operating Officer, and the Kuumba Village in extending a warm and enthusiastic welcome to Dr. Natakie Chestnut-Lee as the new CEO of Kuumba Academy Charter School.

ABOUT KUUMBA ACADEMY CHARTER SCHOOL
In response to the outcry from Wilmington parents looking for a high-quality public education and increased access to arts education for their children, Christina Cultural Arts Center (CCAC) leaders, parents, and community supporters took action and were granted a Department of Education charter to create Kuumba Academy Charter School (KACS) in 2001. KACS was the first school model in the state that partnered a public charter school with a nonprofit community organization.

CCAC and KACS form a unique nonprofit/public school partnership committed to educational excellence. Through the innovative union of academics, arts, technology, and family engagement, each KACS student’s individual learning style is nurtured — resulting in creative learners who are agents of positive change in the community.

Visit kuumbaacademy.org to learn more about the school and its programs.

Hip Hop Pioneer Flavor Flav to Headline 2nd Annual Hip Hop Summit at Delaware Art Museum

The content of this post comes from a press release courtesy of the Delaware Art Museum...

On Saturday, October 26, 2024, Hip Hop community and social justice advocates will gather at the Delaware Art Museum for the 2nd Annual Hip Hop Cultural Summit, presented by AllHipHop, Guerrilla Republik, and the Delaware Art Museum. 

Running from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, this free, family-friendly event offers an opportunity for learning, growth, and community-building while celebrating and uplifting Hip Hop’s deep roots in social justice, change, and civic engagement. The event is free to attend, but registration is required. CLICK HERE TO REGISTER!

Hip Hop legend Flavor Flav will headline the 2nd Annual Hip Hop Cultural Summit
on Oct. 26. Photo provided by Delaware Art Museum.

Following the success of last year’s event, which drew over 1,000 attendees, this year’s event promises to be even more impactful, and Flavor Flav, co-founder of the legendary group Public Enemy, is confirmed as the headliner. 

Additional speakers include Chuck Creekmur, Co-Founder of AllHipHop, who will facilitate a Q&A with Flavor Flav; Hakim Green, Co-Founder of 24 Hours of Peace, who will share his insights on Hip Hop’s influence on education and activism; Pam Africa, renowned social justice advocate, who will speak on the intersection of Hip Hop and activism; and Dr. Yasser Arafat Payne, respected University of Delaware scholar, who will explore the academic and societal impact of Hip Hop culture.

Delaware Art Museum’s Community Engagement Specialist and Guerrilla Republik co-founder, Iz Balleto says of the Summit: "Our goal is to re-educate people on the true purpose of Hip Hop, as many have forgotten its message and meaning. This event is not just entertainment; it's an opportunity for empowerment and a chance to learn what Hip Hop culture stands for. Hip Hop began with a message of peace and advocacy for community needs through its elements, and it has always belonged to the people."

The Summit also includes Hip Hop with a Purpose, a presentation of three dynamic exhibitions. Visitors can explore a captivating photography exhibition by T. Eric Monroe, highlighting Hip Hop's rich history and cultural influence; a special exhibition from the Victrola Museum celebrating the invention of the record player; and a local artists' showcase delving into the Art of Activism and Social Justice. 

The event will also feature a series of competitive battles, including MC, DJ, graffiti, and breakdancing, judged by nationally recognized and local experts, showcasing the skill and creativity defining Hip Hop as a global cultural phenomenon. 

AllHipHop founder Grouchy Greg Watkins expressed his excitement for the event: "I'm incredibly excited about this year's Summit and the amazing lineup of guests we have in store. From legends like Flavor Flav to thought leaders like Hakim Green, this event will truly showcase the power of Hip Hop in driving social change. I’m looking forward to seeing the community come together to experience the art, the discussions, and the battles. It’s going to be an inspiring and unforgettable day for everyone."

Drama League's Women of Carrie: The Musical Make It Scary Good

By Mike Logothetis
Theater reviewer Mike Logothetis grew up in North Wilmington, performing in school and local theater productions. He lives in Newark, but you can find him wherever the arts are good.

The Wilmington Drama League is kicking off its 2024/25 season with Carrie: The Musical – a show based on Stephen King’s indelible tale of high school bullying gone wrong. If you expect to find mousy females cowering in the shadows of a Maine hamlet, you are sorely mistaken. The women in this production take it to soaring heights.

The musical focuses on Carrie White (Julia Miller) – an awkward teenage girl with telekinetic powers – whose lonely life is dominated by her oppressive mother, Margaret (Megan Everhart). When she is humiliated by her classmates at the high school prom, she unleashes chaos on everyone and everything out of vengeance. But that’s skipping ahead and missing the wonderful build-up.

Carrie: The Musical is playing now at
Wilmington Drama League. Photo courtesy of WDL.

Let’s start with the set. Anthony Delnegro has created an open, barren space with more to it than it seems. Working in tandem with the incredible lighting design by Patrick Yarrington, the stage takes on passive and active roles in the production. It’s impressive when Carrie uses her powers to slam shut the windows at home before an approaching storm.

The cast is small, but tight. Director Lauren Vitalo and choreographer Dominic Santos have their actors moving with purpose and in concert. There is dynamism and action throughout the production. It’s not distracting or frivolous but adds to the building tension within the script.

But the stars of the show are the women. Miller has both the acting and singing chops to portray all the facets of Carrie beautifully. She shines in solos “Carrie” and “Why Not Me?” along with showing a physical transformation of Carrie from outcast to prom queen. Everhart is incredibly menacing yet eerily tender as Carrie’s mom Margaret. Her obsessing over Bible verses to lead her daughter along a righteous path is scary. But her voice melds tenderly with Miller’s in duets “And Eve Was Weak” and “Evening Prayers.” This is not an ideal mother-daughter relationship and the audience feels it.

Natalie Ruth’s portrayal of classmate and Carrie sympathizer Sue Snell is excellent. Vitalo starts the show with a spotlight on Ruth and she doesn’t shy away. Her growing concern for the treatment of Carrie is a thread that is revisited as the show progresses. Her subdued vocals in “Once You See” is a highlight. Hayley Hughes plays the delightfully energetic and wicked antagonist Chris Hargensen. Chris is the cool girl who demands respect and a level of popularity above all others. She riles up the seniors at a party with “The World According to Chris.” Jamie Beth Weist plays the voice of reason in the form of gym teacher Miss Gardner. She recognizes Carrie’s differences and tries to give her confidence. The “Unsuspecting Hearts” duet between the two is a wonderful vocal pairing.

Let me not neglect Ricky Sciavicco as BMOC Tommy Ross. Tommy is popular with everyone and even has depth – “Dreamer in Disguise.” Upon his girlfriend Sue’s urging, he takes Carrie to the prom to give her a sense of normalcy and show that people care for her. Boy, does that act of kindness go wrong…

The book is by Lawrence D. Cohen with lyrics by Dean Pitchford, and music by Michael Gore. It integrates elements from the 1974 King novel and 1976 film adaptation. There is no live orchestra so the actors sing to piped-in music. It doesn’t matter. The synchronization is flawless.

The remainder of the cast is: Lily Abrams, Michael Bly, Lauren Cusick, Allison Graham, Matt Lucatamo, Jane Haracz, Tristan Jenis, Rose Langrehr, Michael McDonald, and Isaac McHugh. They add a solid backdrop when required and move gracefully as scenes progress.

Performances of Carrie: The Musical run from September 13 through 22 on Friday and Saturday nights (8 pm) plus two Sunday matinees (2 pm). Tickets prices are $25 with senior/student tickets $20 and children (12 or younger) $15. Group ticket rates are also available through the box office. Tickets can be purchased online at www.wilmingtondramaleague.org; by contacting the box office at (302)764-1172; or visiting in person at 10 Lea Boulevard. The show runs approximately 2 hours with a 15-minute intermission. Refreshments – including alcohol – are sold at the concessions stand.

The Wilmington Drama League seats 260 patrons, including six wheelchair bays. The theater is equipped with an ADA compliant entrance ramp and bathrooms. “Flex Tickets” are also an option for those who plan to watch several WDL shows, but maybe not all of them. Inquire at the box office.

Don’t let “a curse of blood” keep you away from this production at the Wilmington Drama League. Bring a date and a corsage!