The Golden Age of the Broadway Musical

The Golden Age of the Broadway Musical

The Golden Age of Broadway PosterCreated by Wagner alumnus Louis Siani '51, The Golden Age of Broadway is characterized by uniquely American classics, familiar, sung and whistled by people of all ages. Composers including George and Ira Gershwin, Cole Porter, and Rogers and Hammerstein are all represented. Often although their work is familiar, it cannot be attributed or put in its place in American history and its cultural significance is forgotten. One might not realize that one great composer; Irving Berlin, was responsible for such classics as “God Bless America”, “White Christmas”, and “The Easter Parade” – all unique Americana penned by an immigrant to New York from Siberia, Russia.

This project is created for a piano and multiple vocalists to recreate the Broadway American Songbook, putting into historical perspective its contribution to American society. Explanations of the role of musicals in their heyday, starting in the 1920’s – a time before television- and through the 1960’s, will unfold as a story told through its musical creations. Mr. Siani's goal is not just entertainment, but an education in putting the familiar in its appropriate context and place in American culture.

Come see this wonderful show during Reunion Weekend 2014!

Featured Wagner Performers

 
Elana Abt '13
Elana Abt is a Chicago native and recent graduate from Wagner College, where she majored in Theatre Performance.  She is one of the featured performers in the revue "The Golden Age of the Broadway Musical" being performed during Reunion Weekend 2014. Regional credits: Guys and Dolls (Sarah Brown), West Side Story (Consuela), Rocky Horror Show, […]
 
Post Image for Jenny Kelly '13
Some of her Performance credits include "Next to Normal" (Diana), "RENT" (Joanne), "Into The Woods" (The Witch), "Benches" (Joyce), "Love, Life...Lyrics" (Maria), "Les Liaisons Dangereuses" (Madame la Marquise de Merteuil), and "Lysistrata" (Stratyllis).
 
Post Image for Louis Siani '51
Louis Siani is a New York City based artist, educator, musician and entertainer playing piano in nightclubs, big bands and events all over the world for more than 70 years. Mr. Siani began playing in small clubs in the area at only 16 years old and has played with the elite of the music world. […]
 
Post Image for Matthew Hosmer '13
Matthew Hosmer is a 2013 Wagner College graduate. Some of his favorite performance credits include "The School For Lies" (Oronte), "Urinetown" (Tiny Tom), and "My Fair Lady" (Cockney Quartet). He has also appeared Off-Broadway and is featured on two original cast recordings. In addition to performance, Matthew also works as a music director. Past credits […]
 
Post Image for Steven Babino '13
Steven is a 2013 graduate of  Wagner College, where he studied both Theatre & Music.  While at Wagner, he toured with the Wagner College Choir, and was involved with the productions of Guys & Dolls, Legally Blonde, Seussical, Cinderella, and Beauty & the Beast.  As a musician and vocalist, Steven has performed on stages around […]