It’s a blast from the past when Musical Theatre’s West’s acclaimed Broadway in Concert series returns with “Oh What a Night!”, starring cast members from Broadway and film productions of Jersey Boys: Joseph Leo Bwaire, Quinn VanAntwerp, Michael Lomenda, and John Edwards. The performance takes place on Saturday, Feb. 3, 7 p.m. at the intimate Beverly O’Neill Theatre at Long Beach Convention Center.
Joseph Leo Bwarie has performed the role of Frankie Valli on Broadway and national tours more than any other actor, holding the record with more than 2,000 performances. While performing in the 2006 world premiere of Garry Marshall and Paul Williams’ musical “Happy Days” as Chachi, singer/songwriter Carole King approached Bwarie and recommended him for the LaJolla run of a new show destined to go to Broadway called Jersey Boys and the rest is history. In 2013, he worked again with Marshall to develop “Billy & Ray” at the Falcon Theatre, which later went to the Vineyard Theatre in New York. Bwarie has recorded two albums; “Nothin’ But Love” and “The Good Stuff.” He’s appeared in numerous television series and films, including “The Princess Diaries 2” and “Valentine’s Day.”
Quinn VanAntwerp has played the role of Bob Gaudio, the man behind The Four Seasons’ music, on Broadway, national tours, and in Canada since he was 22 years old, giving him the honor of being the actor to play the role the most times. His credits also include regional production of “Thoroughly Modern Millie” and “South Pacific” at the Hollywood Bowl as well as television appearances in “The Affair,” “Better Call Saul,” and “The Following” as well as the film “Four Christmases.”
Before landing a starring role in the Clint Eastwood film “Jersey Boys,” Michael Lomenda performed in numerous productions on Broadway, the first U.S. national tour, and in Canada. He began his career in the Canadian theatre scene, performing coast to coast on the nation’s top stages in productions including “Hairspray,” “Grease,” “Cabaret,” “Guys and Dolls,” “A Chorus Line,” and “Forever Plaid.” He’s performed at a White House dinner hosted by President Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama, and the White House National Christmas Tree Lighting, as well as internationally onboard the Queen Mary 2.
Rounding out the cast is John Edwards. Another “Jersey Boys” alum, Edwards sets the record for the longest running actor to portray Barry Belson both on Broadway and on the U.S. national tour. He also performed an additional character, taking on the role of Hal Miller on Broadway as well. Edwards’ national and international tour credits include “Hairspray” as Seaweed J. Stubbs, Dreamgirls as Jimmy Early, and Brooklyn as the Streetsinger.
Don’t miss “Oh What a Night!” at the Beverly O’Neill Theatre. For tickets go to www.musical.org, by calling 562-856-1999, ext. 4, or at the Musical Theatre West Ticket Office.
