July Theater Guide: The Book of Mormon, Xanadu and More Summer Theater Picks
Get our weekly picks of what to do this weekend and the latest on Philly's arts and entertainment scene.
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Xanadu
Mazeppa Productions is bringing cult classic Xanadu to the Christ Church Neighborhood House this month, and you better believe its keeping all the musical, comedic, and totally-righteous glory from the 1980 film in tact. (Think roller skating, disco, and leg warmers.) For those unfamiliar with Xanadu, the story follows a Greek muse named Kira, who is sent from the heavens to help a young artist fulfill his dream of opening a roller disco. Audiences are encouraged to “boogie” with the cast and musicians on the 360-degree set. The New York Times calls Xanadu, “simultaneously indefensible and irresistable.” We say it'll be a damn good time. July 9-July 26, $25, Christ Church Neighborhood House, 20 N American Street.—Jayson Flores
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BalletX Summer Series
BalletX finally debuts Co-Artistic Director Matthew Neenan's much-anticipated o639 Hours. The full-length world premiere is inspired by the true story of an American pilot who risked his life to fly over the South Pacific. The show features an original score by New Zealand's Rosie Langabeer, and a set that takes its cue from the "sights and sounds of New Zealand’s Maori and Pacific Island culture." July 9-12 and July 12-13, prices vary, The Wilma Theater, 266 South Broad Street.
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Bach at Leipzig
Based on an “obscure historical incident,” People's Light and Theatre Company's Bach at Liepzig tells the story of seven rival musicians who engage in a battle of wit, blackmail, and bribery among other dastardly deeds in order to win a highly sought musical post. The story takes place in 1722 Liepzig, Germany (hence the title). The Los Angeles Times calls it a “funny, fiercely intelligent romp.” July 9-August 10, $15-$70, Steinbright Stage, 39 Conestoga Road.
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Cinderella Kids
The animated Disney classic comes to the Media Theatre fresher and younger than ever. What makes this adaptation different is that it is composed primarily of student actors/actresses performing alongside adults. It’s everything you love about Cinderella: the mice, the dashing prince, the evil step sisters—the whole nine yards. Besides, who couldn't use a little bippity boppity boo in their life? Every Saturday and Sunday between June 6 and August 17, $12/child, $15/adult, Media Theatre, 104 East State Street.
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Herringbone
Flashpoint Theatre Company closes its 10th season with it's very first musical: a one-man show created by Tom Cone, Skip Kennon, and Ellen Fitzhugh. Herringbone stars Ben Dibble, who takes on 10 characters to tell the life of vaudeville star George Herringbone. Mr. Herringbone apparently rises to fame after seeking a little help from the great beyond, making this a "musical ghost story" that explores the true price of fame. July 10th-27th, $25, Off Broad Street Theatre, 1636 Sansom Street.
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Come Together Dance Festival
Dance takes centerstage at the Koresh Dance Company festival. The second annual installment seeks to show off a range of performance styles from 24 different companies—everyone from Brian Sanders' JUNK and The Rock School to the Kun-Yang Lin/Dancers. For a full list of performers check out the festival schedule. July 23-27, $25-$35 for individual tickets, $70-$100 for festival passes, Suzanne Roberts Theatre, 480 S Broad Street.—Jayson Flores
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