Skylight Music Theatre Roller Disco Extravaganza Xanadu Premieres January 26 Cast And Creative T
editMilwaukee, Wis. (December 12, 2023) – Prepare to be blown away by a roller disco extravaganza as Skylight Music Theatre presents the electrifying musical Xanadu, running from January 26 to February 11, 2024. Based on the fan-favorite film starring Olivia Newton-John, this energetic production will transport you to the vibrant era of the 1980s, where roller skates, shoulder pads, legwarmers, and big hair ruled the day.
Xanadu tells the story of Sonny, an aspiring artist who dreams of creating the greatest artistic roller disco on Earth. With the help of Kira, a mysterious woman who may or may not be a Greek muse, Sonny embarks on a journey of self-discovery and artistic fulfillment.
This production of Xanadu is packed with catchy tunes by pop-rock legends Jeff Lynne of Electric Light Orchestra and John Farrar, including “Xanadu,” “I’m Alive,” and “Have You Never Been Mellow?” as well as other songs originally performed by Electric Light Orchestra and Olivia Newton-John in the film’s double-platinum soundtrack. You’ll be singing along and dancing in the aisles as our talented cast brings this iconic musical to life.
The cast of Xanadu is filled with amazing local talent, including Kaitlin Feely as Kira, making her Skylight Music Theatre debut, and Wisconsin native Mitchell Gray. These talented performers will bring their passion and energy to the stage, creating a truly unforgettable experience for audiences of all ages.
Skylight boasts a talented local team bringing this iconic show to life. Beloved Wisconsin actor Doug Clemons, who has graced numerous Milwaukee stages including Skylight, makes his directorial debut. Stephanie Staszak, fresh off her critically acclaimed role as Rosalie Mullins in School of Rock, takes the reins as choreographer. And music director David Bonofiglio, a veteran of Skylight and other local theaters, brings the show's infectious pop-rock score to life.
“We are thrilled to bring Xanadu to vibrant, colorful life on our stage,” said Michael Unger, Artistic Director for Skylight Music Theatre. “This upbeat, zany and uplifting musical will have you laughing, dancing, and singing along from start to finish.”
So, get ready to lace up your skates and join us for a roller disco adventure that will leave you feeling exhilarated and inspired. Xanadu is the perfect way to escape the winter blues and celebrate the power of dreams and imagination.
Tickets for Xanadu are on sale now. Visit www.skylightmusictheatre.org or call the box office at (414) 291-7800 to reserve your seats today.
Xanadu
January 26 – February 11, 2024
Book by Douglas Carter Beane
Music and Lyrics by Jeff Lynne & John Farrar
Based on the Universal Pictures film
Screenplay by Richard Danus & Marc Rubel
Xanadu Cast
Kira (Clio)…………………………………………………………..Kaitlin Feely
Sonny Malone ………………………………………………… Mitchell Gray
Danny Maguire …………………………………………………. Rick Richter
Melpomene……………………………………………………….. Molly Rhode*
Calliope ………………………………………………….. Rhonda Rae Busch
Euterpe.………………………………………………… Samantha Sostarich
Erato……………………………………………………. Rachel Bednarowksi
Terpsicore ……………………………………………….. D Eric Woolweber
Thalia ……………………………………………………. Rai (Rashad) Hudson
Xanadu Creative Team
Director …………………………………………………………………………………Doug Clemons
Choreographer …………………………………………………………………. Stephanie Staszak
Music Director …………………………………………………………………….. David Bonofiglio
Original Scenic Designer ……………………………………………………………… Shane Cinal
Lighting Designer ……………………………………………………………. G. “Max” Maxin IV
Costume Designer ………………………………………………………………….. Jason Orlenko**
Sound Designer ……………………………………………………………………….. Steve Tonar
Properties Designer ……………………………………… Patrick McGuire & Simone Tegge
Production Stage Manager ……………………………………………………… Louis Crocco*
Resident Assistant Stage Manager …………………………………… Jordan Ilyssa Angelo
*Appearing through an agreement between Skylight Music Theatre and Actors' Equity Association, the Union of Professional Actors and Stage Managers in the United States.
**Member of United Scenic Artists 829
Biographies
Rachel Bednarowski (Erato) is ecstatic to be making her Skylight debut! Rachel holds a BFA in Musical Theatre and minors in Dance Performance and Music from UW-Milwaukee. She currently teaches and directs with Shallece Saleen Studios. Rachel’s favorite credits include Rosie in Mamma Mia at GCT, Charlotte in Cinderella, and Betty Jean in The Marvelous Wonderettes with Appleton East Players. Thanks to her family, friends, mentors, and especially Gavin for all the unending love and support.
Rhonda Rae Busch (Calliope) is excited to be back at the Skylight where her credits include Martha in White Christmas, Madame Thernardier in Les Miserables, Widow Paroo in The Music Man, and Jack’s mother in Into the Woods. Favorites elsewhere are Mavis in Church Basement Ladies at the Marcus Center, Eulalie Mackecknie Shin in The Music Man, Ida Straus in Titanic the Musical, Stepmother in Cinderella at The Fireside, and Miss Hannigan in Annie at the Capital Theatre.
Kaitlin Feely (Kira/Clio) is absolutely thrilled to be making her debut with Skylight Music Theatre! Her most recent credits include Ilona in She Loves Me at Citadel Theatre, Colleen/Woman in White in Ripcord at Oil Lamp Theater, and Holly in The Wedding Singer at Surging Films & Theatrics. Kaitlin has a BFA in Music Theatre and a minor in Mathematics from Illinois Wesleyan University. Many thanks to her wonderful cast, team, and exceptional parents.
Mitchell Gray (Sonny Malone) is a New York –based actor, originally from Portage, WI, and PUMPED to be making his Skylight debut with Xanadu! Past credits include Hoffman in Bat Out of Hell at Paris Theatre – Las Vegas Strip, Roger in Rent at Milton Theatre, Sky in Mamma Mia! at The Palace Theatre. He would like to thank his incredible mom, family, and friends for all of the love and supporting the dream. Instagram: @stitchy_gray.