WHITTIER -- This brand new musical premiering at the Blue Moon Theatre in Whittier features songs made popular by The Eagles as performed by Hotel California, an internationally renowned tribute band. This innovative show uses dance as a form of story telling with no dialogue except for the lyrics of the songs.Fifteen of the Eagles' most popular songs provide the unifying thread for the story line and drive the show. Hotel California faithfully and accurately reproduces the Grammy award-winning sounds of the Eagles. They recreate the magic, excitement and musical color of the originals. This is an extremely talented group of musicians and singers. Choreographer Amy Weisenhorn plays multiple roles in this "dansical." She directed the show and is one of the featured dancers. The choreography has, of course, been limited to fit the talent of the dancers she has. Although the featured dancers are fairly talented, some members of the chorus have more limited skills. This has resulted in less complex choreography for the group numbers in some places. Jenifer Olivares shines as the Witchy Women and a featured dancer. Her professional training in jazz and ballet are aptly demonstrated in all of the numbers in which she appears. New Kid in Town is the story of a young man in search of something better. Andrew Pearson, who plays The Kid, has a strong background in concert dance and television. This experience is evidenced in his performance, particularly in the second art when he appears in many partner dances. One of the aspects of this show is the use of projection screens. There is one large screen behind the band and a smaller one on each side of the stage. The images projected are both pictorial scenes as well as abstract figures. Both of these enhance the music that is being performed. The plot for the show was developed by Shawn Hillman, a producer of the show. Also producing are Andy Nagle and Dennis Haugen. My compliments to all concerned for this innovative approach to theater. Did it all work? Yes and no. However, one thing is for sure. Anyone who enjoys the music of The Eagles, will love this show! "New Kid in Town" plays through May 16 at the Performing Arts Theater on the Campus of Southern California University Health Sciences. This is located at 16200 E. Amber Valley Drive in Whittier. Tickets range from $10 to $35 and may be purchased online at www.bluemoontheatreco.com or by phoning (800) 838-3006.

********** Published: May 7, 2010 - Volume 9 - Issue 3