By BJ Lewis

bvl001@latech.edu

 

Tech students will have the opportunity to see a multi-award winning Broadway show when “Thoroughly Modern Millie” comes to the Monroe Civic Center’s Jack Howard Theatre, located at 401 Lea Joyner Expressway, for two performances at 7:30 p.m. Monday and Tuesday.

This is the second show of the 2005-2006 “Best of Broadway” series at the Monroe Civic Center presented by Impresario’s Choice.

Taking place in the 1920s, “Thoroughly Modern Millie” centers on Millie Dillmount as she makes her way to New York in search of love and a “modern marriage.”

“It’s a fun show,” Ruth Parcover, associate director of marketing for Impresario’s Choice, said. “It’s not harsh or boring. It’s upbeat.”

Parcover said the lead actress, Alex Ellis, is amazing and is getting the best reviews.

Michael Ian Cedar, company manager, had another glowing opinion about Ellis.

“She is absolutely a powerhouse, a dynamite star in the show,” Cedar said.

He said everyone in the show is as great and dynamic as the leading lady.

“I can honestly say this, and  this is not a sales pitch,” Cedar said. “Everyone in the show is extremely talented and strong,” Cedar said.

“The caliber of talent people will see on that stage is astronomical.”

Cedar said the show is directed by Joey McKneely, a very well-known Broadway choreographer and director.

“His work includes “Smokey Joe’s Café” and “The Boy from Oz,” both musicals which are extraordinarily high-paced and world-renowned for their energy,” Cedar said.

Cedar said “Millie” carries the same energy. He said there will be a lot of jazz music and tapping that will be very high paced.

“There is so much dancing and singing in the show,” Cedar said. “The costumes are gorgeous. It’s just an aesthetic piece; it’s gorgeous to be able to watch.”

Cedar said “Millie” is a family show that children, parents and grandparents will enjoy.

Cedar also said the show resonates with students well since the story’s main character is going though a lot of the same life situations students find themselves in.

“College towns seem to love the show, number one because it is about a group of young girls, fresh in the world and wanting to go out and pursue things with full gusto,” Cedar said.

“A lot of college kids relate to it because they are in the same position where they are ready to move on or are moving toward things they have wanted their entire life.”

Cedar said “Millie” is a musical comedy. It is family-oriented, but has a sophisticated humor most times.

“I’d recommend any college student go see a show like that,” Cedar said.

Tickets range from $28 to $58 and are now on sale at the Monroe Civic Center Box office, FYE, all Ticketmaster outlets, by calling 329-0001 or on the Web at www.impresarioschoice.com.

Students can find a link on the site to the “Silent Seats” program that enables students to have access to a 50 percent discount on select seats for the show.