ALL IN THE OHANA, AT BLUE NOTE

Ohana Arts, an organization of theater and musical mentors and their students, made the plunge into the Waikiki mainstream last night (July 12), at Blue Note Hawaii at the Outrigger Waikiki resort.

Clearly, there’s a lot of budding talent among the ranks, with about 25 taking the stage to strut their stuff, joined by a cluster of adults. A premium  list of  in-house entertainer-mentors, like Rocky Brown and Kristian Lei (who have enviable credits in legit Broadway musicals), sharing their talent to Mainland and global audiences and now grooming and inspiring homegrown troupers still earning their stripes.

Rocky Brown

I was curious, about how this group would assemble a cabaret show – a mixed bag of tunes, an uneven level of confidence among the youths – in a venue not generally known for showcasing  local talent seeking their first brush of legitimacy.

Simply, the evening was a work in progress. It was a challenge to fully appreciate a show that doesn’t have a format or a map, like a conventional Broadway musical. Ohana Arts, welcomes challenges and is in the midst of its busiest month  ever. FYI, besides the Blue Note show, it is staging its version of Broadway popular musicials, “Newsies” July 21 at 2 and 7:30 p.m., July 23 at 7:30 p.m., and July 24 at 3 p.m. at the Earle Ernst Lab Theatre at the University of Hawaii, alternately producing “Matilda” on July 22  at 7:30 p.m., July 23 at 3 p.m., and Sunday July 24 at 11 a.m. and 7:30 p. m., at Kennedy Theatre at UH. “Newsies” is nearly sold out. But that’s another story.

As deployed by Ohana Arts, the Blue Note one-nighter reeled off more like a high school talent show, than a cohesive club spectacle,  with one singer followed by another and another and another. The routine swiftly became, well, routine.

However, the core of the evening – the valid talent – was outstanding. Apologies, but I didn’t have road map  (meaning cast list) for this one, so I can’t properly name names of most of the troupers as the charming, enthusiastic emcee, dutifully rattling off a list… from her iPhone.
So it was problematic, for an ignorant spectator, to identify who’s who. The parade had its ups and downs, and the show would have had more impact if it shaped and produced the participants and selections with thematic tweaks. But ambition and pride shined, and since most of the crowd were Ohana Arts families and followers, there were enough cheers and sparks to aid and provide confidence and goodwill to the youngsters.

An evening like this begs for a rousing opening number involving multiple vocalists in a spirited hurrah,  to make us all sit on the edge of our seats  in anticipation. Imagine a youth capable of becoming The Emcee, as in “Cabaret,” and dish up a socko “Wilkommen” opening song. Would have been a howling howdy-do.

In this outing, Jeannine Wong’s (sorry if this isn’t the correct name) “Don’t Rain on My Parade” was a logical  opening song choice, but it was a one-woman parade (not her fault) that needed embellishment perhaps with a few dancers and singers just to perk it up and get noticed.

Kristian Lei

Mentor and professional singer Kristian Lei’s duet with a dude named Tanner (sorry, missed the surname)“The Prayer” had both Broadway pizzazz and operatic voices. Similarly, Rocky Brown’s (another pro) trio version of “A Million Dreams” from “The Greatest Showman” with Sienna and Janell (spelling?) had precisely the kind of charisma that sizzled, when talent helped sell the tune.

Ryan Sousa, a father of an Ohana pupil, excelled in a close-to-the-finale momentum with a sweet, emotional “Bring Him Home” from “Les Misérables.”

Tanner returned to embrace “Music of the Night,” from “Phantom of the Opera,” to extend  and spin the Broadway wheel, followed by a “Wicked” duet of the iconic “I Have Been Changed” song  by an adult duo whose names I don’t want to screw up, so won’t attempt trying, with a grand finale of “You Will Be Found,” from musical “Dear Evan Hansen,” the signature bandaged arm not required (though it would have been a kick if someone had a faux broken left arm) that finally demonstrated the depth and unifying resources in Ohana Arts.The integrated harmonies, and the vastness of the assembly, were impressive.

Ohana Arts’ finale number “You Will Be Found” engaged the entire company.

The presence of emerging local talent hasn’t gone unnoticed by Blue Note, which is making it possible for non-profits like Ohana Arts to make a pitch for a slot, without the normal rental fees, and Blue Note also enabling public support of monetary kokua on its website. Great win-win for all – for organizations eager to mount a cabaret show. …

And that’s Show Biz. …

‘EDWINA’ ON BRIGHT KID’S AGENDA

“Dear Edwina Jr.,” a musical about the joys of growing up, will be staged by the I’m a Bright Kid Foundation, at 7 p.m. July 15 and 16 and at 2 p.m. July 16 and 17 at Paliku Theatre at Windward Community College.

The show is a climax to IABK’s Summer Musical Theatre Arts Education Program, where island youths have been attending workshops and classes on the multi layers of singing, acting, and dancing in a musical show.

“Edwina Jr.” focuses on the adventures of a plucky advice-giver, Edwina Spoonapple, as she directs her neighborhood kids in a series of live production numbers to be featured in her latest weekly advice show.

Cleo (full first name, Cleonice) Hamm portrays Edwina; a Bright grandson, Drew Bright, plays Scott Kunkle, a neighbor boy, who is Edwina’s love interest. 

Drew Bright and Cleo Hamm co-star in IABK’s “Edwina Jr.”

A video-on-demand component is available for those unable to attend the live performances.

During summer vacation, students have been getting lessons on the stagecraft of theater, so the shows are an opportunity to use skills acquired during the workshops.

Production numbers reflect positive friendship wisdom ranging from making new allies to trying new food, told in tunes.

Tickets are $23 for adults 21 or older, $18 for seniors 65 and older plus students and active-duty military, and $13 for children 3-12. Tickets for video element are available online www.imabrightkid.org/tickets  

The program is supported in part by a grant from the Harold K.L. Castle Foundation. The summer activities draw students from all over the islands.

The pandemic has sidelined IABK to stage traditional musicals for nearly three seasons, so “Edwina Jr.” is the first theatrical endeavor performing before a live audience since 2019.

Selleck remembers Doversola

Tom Selleck, TV’s original Thomas Magnum, has sent organizers of the funeral for casting director Margaret Doversola, a tribute message about Doversola.

Doversola was a secretary to the producer of CBS’ “Magnum,” which aired for eight years from 1980 to 1988, and Doversola became the show’s casting director.

“Margaret was much loved and respected by all of us in our ‘Magnum’ family… as well as the rest of the Hawaii entertainment community, and beyond,” said Selleck.  “She was a member of our family from day one, throughout our eight years, and her Casting Director role helped shape the success of the show. Much love, and aloha, Margaret.”

Selleck was a Hawai residenti throughout the run of the procedural. He now stars as the police commissioner of CBS’ “Blue Bloods.” …

Other show biz deaths

Johnny Todd

Facebook chatter indicates that veteran and beloved jazz pianist Johnny Todd has died in Los Angeles, though not firmly confirmed by family sources.  Todd was widely known as the musical director for Don Ho, for nearly three decades, in notable gigs at the Las Vegas Hilton in the 1970s and in most of Ho’s prime anchor spots ranging from Duke Kahanamoku’s  to the Hilton Hawaiian Village Dome. He is survived by daughter Shay and was the husband of jazz singer Ethel Azama, who preceded him in death. …

Paul Brown, the celebrated hairstylist with deep Hawaii roots, died in Los Angeles on July 7 at age 74. He had been diagnosed with. Glioblastoma, an aggressive form of brain cancer, according to friend Willy Falk, a Broadway performer and Punahou grad, now living in New York. “Paul was well known as hairdresser, salon-owner and for his line of eponymous products,” said Falk. Brown had a career in hairstyling and hair and skin care products, bearing his name. He utilized island resources to create his hair, body, and makeup products.

Falk also said Linda Kidani, has died – date unknown – at a care home in Kaneohe. She was a veteran performer with the Opera Players of Hawaii, a vocalist at Central Union Church, and an investor in “The Producers,” a Tony-winning musical on Broadway. Survivors include her daughter Kaiulani Shinsato. Services are scheduled for July 17, specifics unknown. …

And that’s Show Biz. …

CASTING DIRECTOR DOVERSOLA DIES

Margaret Doversola, a pioneering casting director who enabled many local actors find roles in the initial era of signature TV series and movies filmed in Hawaii, died peacefully in her sleep on Friday, July 1, 2022. She was 78.

She was initially a secretary of the original producer of the Jack Lord-led “Hawaii Five-0.” But her work ethics weren’t unnoticed by Lord, who hired her as his personal assistant, and she was part of the unknown icons of “Five-0,” CBS’s first procedural to be filmed entirely in the islands. Doversola remained close to Lord, until his final days.

Though born in Manchester, England, she relocated with her family to Australia when she was 7, and later immigrated to Hawaii where she earned a degree at BYU-Hawaii, in 1966. She also briefly taught in Utah.

She eventually became assistant casting director for CBS’ second on-location show, “Magnum P.I.,” in 1980, working alongside Tom Selleck to secure island talent and faces for roles in episodic TV here.

Margaret Doversola

Doversola was instrumental in recognizing and signing a string of actors for a variety of shows for more than three decades. She also conducted workshops for newbies in need of skills to survive a casting call.

Among her signees: Jason Momoa, Kelly Hu, Elizabeth Lindsey, Tia Carrere and Branscombe Richmond.

She was known to recognize a face, and enabled unknowns to do extra work, eventually landing them speaking roles. “Margaret was always incredibly positive and cheerful in our auditions,” said Julia Nickson, who went from Liberty House model to on-screen co-star in such vehicles as “Rambo First Blood, Part II,” and “Magnum.”

She rubbed shoulders with a retinue of actors who had film or TV projects here, including Jon Hamm, Carol Burnett, Richard Chamberlain, Ben Affleck, David Hasselhoff, Jim Nabors, Branden Fraser.

Doversola’s daughter, Lane Doversola, said her mom was someone “who loved all people and had a huge heart. My mom was always behind the scenes and instrumental in helping young local talents make their dreams come true landing big roles in Hollywood. However, in my life, she was my hero and the true shining star.”

Other actors shared reaction to Doversola’s passing.

Said actress Elizabeth Lindsey: “Margaret was a beacon for many. She guided our careers with an equal measure of tenacity and kindness… She saw potential in this country girl and gave me my wings to fly. Now it’s time for our beloved mentor and friend to take flight.”

“Margaret Doversola’s encouragement and support for me in her acting workshops inspired me to pursue my acting career at a young age,” said Matt Sato, of the “Doogie Kamealoha, M.D” Disney series filming its second season currently.

Jordan Segundo, TV anchor, actor and singer, said:  “Margaret Doversola had an incredible spirit and was a big supporter of local talent.  She will be missed.”

Nancy Bernal, entertainment manager, said, “She promoted professionalism and kindness in her acting workshops that she taught for both adults and children.”

Funeral services will be held on July 16, 2022, at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, where she was an active member. The church is at 219 Lunalilo Home Road in Hawaii Kai. Visitation will be from 10 a.m., with services from 11 a.m., followed by a Celebration of Life from 12:30 to 2 p.m. …

Two productions are extended

Manoa Valley Theatre’s revival production of Lisa Matsumoto’s pidgin-English musical has been extended for three more performances, July 15, 16 and 17, at Kaimuki High School Auditorium.

It  was to end July 10, but Da Wicked Queen, Little Red Riding Hood and Cinderella will get more giddy times on stage. …

Diamond Head Theatre’s “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory,” set to open July 20, already has added shows on Aug. 13 and 14. It’s a Broadway show inspired by the Roald Dahl book that features the story of Charlie Bucket’s quest to visit Willy Wonka’s chocolate factory via a golden ticket hidden in a chocolate bar. …

Broadway grosses, week ending July 3

“The Music Man” and its “76 Trombones” reign over the box office grosses, the week ending July 3. It earned $3.067 million, according to the Broadway League.

There was a bit of a gain for “The Lion King,” which roared to $2,162 million and No. 2 on the charts.

“Hamilton” was a whisker away, but at No. 3, with its take of $2.152 million. …

And that’s Show Biz. …

NBC SIGNS ‘MAGNUM’ FOR 2 SEASONS

CBS’ “Magnum P.I.,” which filmed four seasons in Hawaii but was canceled by the network in May, has found a new home at NBC, and has been assured of at least two more seasons, with options for more.

The life-saving story, revealed a day ago — and 49 days after CBS canceled the sleuth-in-a-red Ferrari show —  includes a renewal program over two years but with a vastly reduced 20-episode deal, or 10 per season, half of the customary 20-plus single year timetable .

And because the lateness of the decision by NBC, production cannot begin till this fall, and a programming slot won’t be known till 2023.

A tangle of discussions apparently were held to rescue the popular show, featuring Jay Hernandez as Thomas Magnum, and his colleague Julia Higgins, portrayed by Perdita Weeks. “Magnum” has maintained a respectable ratings record in its primetime Friday slot, preceding CBS’ “‘Blue Bloods,” ironically starring Tom Selleck, the original “Magnum” back in the day. The reboot’s numbers — 7.338 million viewers per episode, according to Nielsen – means it ranked 30th out of 151 Big 4 broadcast programs over the recently-wrapped September-to-May season. “Magnum” also was tied for 56th in the desired adults 18-49 demo (a 0.7 rating), aligned with shows like “Shark Tank,” “The Resident,” and “Law & Order.”

Perdita Weeks as Higgins, Jay Hernandez as Magnum: Two-year-renewal on NBC.

When keep-it or kill-it season neared, the apparent key issue of friction was the licensing fee – “the biggest sticking point,” as expressed by IndieWire. The rights to the show were owned by NBCUniversal’s Universal Television. Earlier talks about the fate of “Magnum” mentioned that NBC and its streaming wing, Peacock, would be the ultimate destination..

Amy Hill

Hernandez might have had some inside knowledge that a pick-up was coming, later than sooner, so he signed on to filming this summer of an indie film, “The Long Game.” He’ll still be able to complete that mission.

Amy Hill, who plays Teuila Tuileta, aka Kumu, on “Magnum,” is said to have two film projects this summer, that also will be completed before the fall shooting of the show agenda under new call letters. Presumably, cast members can sign on to projects when filming is not under way.

Clearly, when the filming begins, NBC can begin its storytelling at the point of the CBS ending, when Magnum and Higgins kissed and cooed and made certain an element of romance would be part of their relationship in the future. But the axe fell, when CBS didn’t renew, so NBC can now strut its peacock feathers when the new era of “Magnum” begins. …

‘All Rise’ moves to OWN

Another CBS series, “All Rise,” was not renewed by CBS after two seasons, but it found a new home at the Oprah Winfrey Network (OWN).

Ruthie Ann Miles

Season three, thus is under way, with Simone Missick, back in court as Judge Lola Carmichael, who also serves as an exec producer of the show. Of particular interest to Islanders, however, is that a co-star on the show, played by Tony-winning actress from Kaimuki High School, Ruthie Ann Miles, who continues as Lola’s assistant Sherri Kansky. She has been a Broadway musical theater star, earning a Tony for her featured supporting role in “The King and I,” but also is known for portraying Imelda Marcus in an off-Broadway musical, “Here Lies Love,” which earned her the Lucille Lortel Award for Outstanding Actress in a Musical f

And that’s Show Biz. …

JAY HERNANDEZ WILL DO A MOVIE

Since his “Magnum P.I.” contract ends June 30, series star Jay Hernandez isn’t sitting around waiting for a call for a fifth season.

That was so yesterday. So, he’s going to the movies – the big screen – instead. No more waiting game.

According to Deadline, Hernandez is committed to do a film called “The Long Game,” with Jaina Lee Ortiz, Dennis Quaid and Julian Works, based on Humberto G. Garcia’s book, “Mustang Miracle.”

No specific word on who he’ll play, but the film is based on a true tale based in Texas of the mid-50s. The story focuses on five Mexican-American caddies at a ritzy golf club where the discriminatory rules of that era forbade them from playing golf, according to Deadline. Because these caddies loved golfing, they created their own course (albeit, simple one) in the Texas desert with the kokua of a Latino coach, and were skilled enough to beat the wealthy all-white team players in a 1957 Texas State High School Golf Championship, thus overcoming the racist, discriminatory practices of the elite golf course, elevating the pride and power of being Latino.

With filming beginning this month – not sure if it’ll be Texas – this simply means that Thomas Magnum won’t be available if and when CBS, NBC or a cable streaming network announces, very belatedly, the possibility of a fifth season.

Jay Hernadez

OK, “The Long Game” does not have the reputation and respect of a certified weekly police drama set in our Hawaiian turf, but Hernandez is doing the right thing. Eliminate waiting. Find a job. Go for it. Create your own destiny.

Main thing: Forget the awkward and surprising termination of a bona fide hit show for CBS.

The new film, whatever its outcome, should be a redemption for Hernandez, who has helped steer the TV reboot into a reputable and respected project. Each week, there was a bona fide sense of ohana – family – in the episodes, and Hernandez’s wink-eye, have-fun approach, made “Magnum” an easy watch to applaud.

Remember? The season four finale, with Thomas Magnum and Juliet Higgins (Perdita Weeks) committing to each other romantically, begged for a follow-up, which would have logically been the fifth season. But the crude ending, without the follow-up, was a CBS blunder of major proportions. No aloha spirit…

One out, one in

The Actors Group (TAG) has adjusted its 2022-23 season, replacing “Soldier’s Play” with “The Poet and His Song,” in the Jan.20 to Feb. 12, 2023 playdates at the Brad Powell Theatre in Iwilei.

The substitute celebrates the poems of Paul Larence Dunbar, directed by Derrick Brown and Brad Powell.

Told by a cast of costumed actors, the play examines the triumphs and tragedies of the black life experience, in pre- and post-Emancipation America, in the eyes of the poet artists.

The production is written in both the black dialect of the times as well as standard English. It’s the kind of art TAG is savvy in staging in its intimate performing space..

Details: www.tagtickets@hawaii.rr.com or call (808) 722-6941. …

And that’s Show Biz. …