Always look on the bright side of life! Enjoy a lot of medieval merry-making with the delightfully zany Monty Python’s Spamalot, a musical lovingly ripped off from the internationally renowned comedy team’s most popular film, Monty Python and the Holy Grail. This highly irreverent parody of King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table is the recipient of three Tony Awards, including Best Musical, and fourteen Tony Award nominations. Join the Ogunquit Playhouse for its lavish production, featuring Tim Hatley’s sumptuous Tony nominated sets and costumes, a chorus line of dancing divas and knights, flatulent Frenchmen, a killer rabbit and more madcap mirth than a headless knight!
"Nunsense" is a hilarious spoof about the misadventures of five nuns trying to manage a fundraiser. Sadly, the rest of the sisterhood died from botulism after eating vichyssoise
prepared by Sister Julia. Thus, the remaining nuns - ballet-loving Sister Leo, street-wise Sister Robert Anne, befuddled Sister Mary Amnesia, the Mother Superior Sister Regina and mistress of the novices Sister Mary Hubert - stage a talent show in order to raise the money to bury their dearly departed. Read our review!
Join the Ogunquit Playhouse, the first Regional theatre in the nation to produce the grandiose and glorious, musical spectacle, complete with the extravagant Broadway costumes. This stunner is based on the film noir classic by Billy Wilder, is the winner of seven Tony Awards including Best Musical and features Andrew Lloyd Webber’s loveliest melodies. Don’t miss the crumbling mansion, the faded star of the silent screen, Norma Desmond and the handsome young screenwriter, Joe Gills, who stumbles into the life of the ex-film-goddess brushed into obscurity by the outsized glory of Hollywood - Get ready for your close-up!
Six young people in the throes of puberty, overseen by grown-ups who barely managed to escape childhood themselves, learn that winning isn’t everything and that losing doesn’t necessarily make you a loser in this Broadway musical that has been praised as irresistible and riotously funny. Warning: audience participation is required at “The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee.”
The perennial favorite about a problem named Maria, graces the Ogunquit Playhouse stage. This final collaboration between Rodgers and Hammerstein is considered to be the world's most beloved musical. Featuring some of the most delightfully infectious songs of all time, an endearing love story set in Austria at the dawn of WWII and one of the most thrilling and inspirational finales ever presented in the theatre; it is guaranteed to win your heart. Come hear your favorites songs!
Be transported to a magical, wonderful world in the season opener. The hilarious show-within-a-show begins when a die-hard musical fan plays his favorite cast album, a 1928 smash hit called The Drowsy Chaperone and the show magically bursts to life. Audiences are instantly immersed in the glamorous, hilarious tale of a celebrity bride and her uproarious wedding day.
Hospitality, location, and a solid collection of entrees (in both taste and presentation), are the winning trio of any decent restaurant, and Katie’s looks to become another must-eat destination of Shore Road.
A new novel by Ogunquit resident Paul Paré explores the secret lives of Catholic seminarians and middle-aged closeted men in a driving narrative that has attracted critical attention. Singing the Vernacular travels from the snow-covered countryside of Québec in the 1960s to the desert landscapes of Southern California in the 1990s, with an occasional nod to the principal character’s youth in a New England mill town. The book is both a coming of age story and a coming out story. It was recently published by iUniverse of Bloomington, Indiana, and is now widely available on Amazon.com, Barnes&Noble’s website, and, in Ogunquit, at Drop Anchor and Books Ink. In Portsmouth, the novel can be found at RiverRun Book Store.
Elvis Presley’s hits roar to life on the Playhouse stage in this tale of a small town girl with big dreams, and the motorcycle-riding rebel she falls for. A mad-cap musical comedy with plenty of rock ‘n roll, romance and mistaken identities. Visit The Ogunquit Playhouse for more info.
In the tradition of the hilarious Harvey Korman and Tim Conway sketches from the old Carol Burnett Show, comes the stage comedy The Queen of Bingo! 'Sis' and 'Babe,' two sisters on the other side of 50, want to add a little fun and excitement to their lives...but where to find it? BINGO! Visit The Booth Theater for more info.
Grab your galoshes and head straight to the Playhouse for Singin' in the Rain! The most beloved movie musical of all time takes to the Ogunquit Playhouse stage for a full five weeks. Visit The Ogunquit Playhouse for more info.
Guys and Dolls is set against the picturesque backdrop of New York City’s Broadway, complete with Tony Walton’s Tony-Award winning sets and William Ivy Long’s Technicolor costumes. On a bet, gambler Sky Masterson sets out to make Miss Sarah Brown fall in love with him. A pure-at-heart Salvation Army Mission reformer, she has no time for Sky’s games, until he saves the Mission and the day. Visit The Ogunquit Playhouse for more info.
Booth Summer Theater opens its season with a show that focuses on eight mischievous students populating a parochial school from elementary to high school in the 1950s, capturing the most humorous aspects of youthful growing pains and the trying moments of adolescence. Be sure to see Booth Theater's Do Black Patent Leather Shoes Really Reflect Up? Visit The Booth Theater for more info.
This bright vinyl time capsule tracks five groovy girls as they come of age in the 60s, those liberating days that made England hop! A musical journey from 1950 to 1970, packed full of songs, dance, nostalgia and fun, Shout! With its irresistible blend of hip-swiveling hits, eye-popping fashions and psychedelic dances from the 60s, this all-new production will make you want to throw your head back and Shout! For tickets see Ogunquit Playhouse Web Site.
Winner of nine Tony Awards, this "One Singular Sensation" follows 17 would-be dancers in their quest to make the cut for a new Broadway Musical. The quintessential backstage musical, A Chorus Line, recreated on the Playhouse stage, complete with Broadway sets and costumes, offers an intimate look at the lives of gypsy dancers and their quest for a spot on the line.
10 Things to do in Wells, Maine
June 7, 2009
Tucked between the coastal towns of Ogunquit and Kennebunkport is Wells, Maine. Many people overlook this part of Route 1 on their way up to the Kennebunks. Look beyond the campgrounds and the ticky tacky motels, and you will find some fun things to do. Wells is Maine's version of "Roadside America" a place with quirky little shops that sell qausi-authentic Indian beads, faux lobster traps, and an assortment of roadside attractions for every age!
10 Things to Do on a Rainy Day
June 5, 2009
The weather in Maine is quite dramatic, it changes rapidly, and therefore it does rain occasionally. The good thing about the rain is that it does not last long. Here is a quick list of things to do.
Winner of nine Tony Awards, this "One Singular Sensation" follows 17 would-be dancers in their quest to make the cut for a new Broadway Musical. The quintessential backstage musical, A Chorus Line, recreated on the Playhouse stage, complete with Broadway sets and costumes, offers an intimate look at the lives of gypsy dancers and their quest for a spot on the line. For tickets see Ogunquit Playhouse Web Site.
Amore Breakfast is one of the only places where people happily wait for their turn, not only because there’s a mug of coffee, and now an elegant patio on which to watch the action along Shore Road, but because of the atmosphere that Ms. Cusimano has created. It’s gratifying, and inspiring, to see good people succeeding at something they love so well - it’s even better when it results in a delicious meal.
Andrew and Gennaro celebrate 10 years of owning La Pizzeria, the popular restaurant right in the center of town. We paid them a visit and sampled some of the cuisine. The pizza has always been great - but there were surprises waiting!
Ogunquit's newest restaurant offers a cool, trendy decor, amazing food, an impressive assortment of 'Tinis and an experience not found anywhere else in Ogunquit.
What better way to end the summer than to fall in love? The Booth Theater of the Betty Doon Motel continues its run of original theater works with David Mauriello’s Just Say Love. When Doug and Guy meet on a park bench they think they know the answers, but forces beyond their control have something else in mind. Just Say Love ponders the questions of physical attraction and spiritual love, as two men explore the mysteries of their new relationship. After successful runs in Boston and Chicago, Just Say Love, closes its 2008 season in Ogunquit, the home of playwright David Mauriello. For tickets call 207.646.8142.
Touted by many as the perfect musical, this dazzling production features irresistible songs including “Wouldn’t It Be Loverly,” “I Could Have Danced All Night” and “On the Street Where You Live.” This all-new Playhouse production features a multitude of TV stars, fantastic sets and gorgeous eye-popping costumes. Bring the whole family to enjoy this timeless classic. Visit The Ogunquit Playhouse for more info.
The Ogunquit Playhouse opens with a visually stunning production of Fiddler on the Roof. Winner of nine Tony® Awards including Best Musical, features the songs “If I Were A Rich Man” and “Matchmaker Matchmaker.” This touching story holds a universal message of community and hope that continues to resonate with audiences, making it one of the most beloved musicals of all time. Visit The Ogunquit Playhouse for more info.
The annual Mr. Ogunquit Contest returned Labor Day Weekend and warmed up the town. Check out what has become a great community event over the past 30 years!
Vanities is a laugh-out-loud comedy about the growth of a friendship among three small town women coming of age in the 1960s and 70s. Playing repertory-style at the Booth Theater, Ogunquit's true repertory summer theater. For tickets call 207.646.8142.
This musical comedy of errors won four Tony Awards in 2005, including Best Revival of a Musical. Enjoy the antics as Georges and Albino, two middle-aged lovers, attempt to impersonate a straight married couple when their son announces he’s going to marry the daughter of a bigoted right-wing politician.
This all-singing, all-dancing 1992 Tony Award winner for Best Musical has a star-struck New York City playboy in a Nevada mining town – with romance, mistaken identities, and show-stopping musical numbers. Add original Broadway sets and costumes and the stage is set for irresistible fun!
Laugh and cry with Jamie and Ste as they discover that growing up in London's rough eastside tenements isn't so bad when you're in love. It's everyone's favorite movie and the classic play about growing up gay. Great performances and fun music by Mama Cass.
The Front Porch Restaurant has been made over from top to bottom and doubled in size. We sampled some of the new cuisine, and marveled at the makeover.
Hosted by Gordon Michaels and Tommy Hensel, Cabaret by the Sea included two shows at MaineStreet: "Out of the Wind and Into the Rain," and "The Best of the Best."
The perfect list in anticipation of the perfect summer? Maybe, maybe not. But it's a good starting point. 101 things that tourists and residents love about Ogunquit, Maine.
On her way to Womens' T Dance at Maine Street, DJ Jodi stayed over, checked out the scene, and decided there were lots more women having fun in town than she would have imagined.
Despite the rain, Ogunquit's favorite end-of-season event went off without a hitch. Hosted by Raquel Blake, this wholesome celebration of manly virtue pleased judges and audiences alike.
A raucous celebration of women who are on the brink of, in the middle of, or have survived The Change. This joyful musical parody of 25 re-lyricized classic baby boomer hits, features such chart-toppers as "I Heard It Thru the Grapevine; You No Longer See 39," and the disco favorite "Stayin' Awake! Stayin' Awake!" Men and women of all ages will be dancing in the aisles.
It's not just for kids! Everyone will enjoy the timeless enchantment of this fairy tale come to life - complete with dazzling Broadway sets, costumes and puppets.
Joe Posa does go-go boy turned drag diva in a very entertaining show. As Liza, Barbara, Joan Rivers and others, he's been called one of the most talented and convincing female impersonators on the scene today.
Sally Struthers is just about perfect as Dolly Levi, in a production with spectacular scenery, costumes, dancing, singing, and a whole bunch of great performances.
Jaffe, Danny, Eddie and Bob performed together each night for their last weekend in Ogunquit. A great comedy team finished their month long run at Club InsideOUT.
LOUNGE-ZILLA! invaded Club InsideOUT with his atomic blast of TWISTED MUSIC, POLITICALLY-INCORRECT COMEDY and an OUTRAGEOUS 3D FINALE that had to be seen to be believed! Goodbye for now, and thanks for a great July!
Tommy Hensel and Gordon Michaels who thrilled Ogunquit audiences with "Cabaret by the Sea" this spring return for one night only with Alexia B. Motley and Tony Perry.
Cashetta is one of the world's only drag magicians taking illusion to a whole new level. Her act ranges from walk around, to mentalism to full scale stage shows and is original, hysterical and absolutely astounding. Cashetta has been featured on countless television and stage shows and tours internationally with her one "woman" show. Be it card magic, escape or full scale illusions, Cashetta's act is the only one of its kind.
This high-energy musical takes us back through a decade of change with the songs of the many talented female performers and girl bands of the 1960's, including Patti LaBelle, Connie Francis, Tina Turner, Aretha Franklin, and Janis Joplin just to name a few. Read our review.
Award winning comic and Ogunquit favorite Christine O'Leary will be performing her adult comedy featuring hysteria and more fun than you've ever had in Maine Fridays and Saturdays all summer at MaineStreet.
An afternoon of fabulous fun, fashion and frivolity! Silent auction and raffle to support the Ogunquit Playhouse. Starring Amanda Stragg, Verna Turbulence, Corvette, Paris Idean and Jazzmine Taylor.
Join new owner Wayne and all for a Grand Open House Celebration with complimentary food, beverages and an amazing new look that somehow still keeps the familiar feeling of the Front Porch.
MaineStreet's three-day Anniversary and Deck Opening Party ended with a benefit for Frannie Peabody Center. The benefit featured performances by Miss Kitti Chanel, Shaunna Rai, & Diveena.
John Jackman of Southside Pizza Boy is the new owner of Club InsideOUT. In what is sure to be one of the most welcome signs of spring, John plans a grand reopening on April 14. Gay Ogunquit talked to him about his new adventure...
Jamie Morris and his crew captivated audiences with the area premiere of the new musical Facts of Life. The show drew a large crowd and raised over $5000 for Seacoast Repertory Theatre.
Musical comedian Khris Francis performs for the last time this season on Sunday, September 18. Get there early, don your thickest skin (no one is safe from his ribbing), and be grateful that he was here. It's your last chance to see the show that has been the talk of the town.
Two shows have opened at the Ogunquit Museum of American Art. They are Edward Hopper: The Ogunquit Paintings and Memories of World War II: Photographs from the Associated Press Archives. The museum is open 10:30-5 Monday - Saturday and 2-5 Sunday through October 15. In addition to the art, the grounds and the view are stunning!
The Little Sisters of Hoboken, currently starring at Ogunquit Playhouse in Nunsensations! The Las Vegas Review, paid a visit to Amore Breakfast. Be sure to see the show, now through October 10! For tickets call 207.646.5511.
It's that time of year again! Who will be Mr. Ogunquit 2005? Hot guys, tight trunks, and real displays of masculine virtue. On the beach Sunday afternoon. Sponsored by Inside Out.
Lobster Dash is an annual race that takes place on Ogunquit Beach during Capriccio Week. Its in the memory of Greg Gumbinner. Funds raised are distributed to various charities in Ogunquit. All contestants enjoy a lobster roll after the competition.
The tradition continues! Inside Out will be hosting a speedo contest Sunday, September 5 at 2pm, at Ogunquit Beach G-Section. There's a $500 prize for the winner, who will be announced at a crowning ceremony at 5:30pm at Inside Out. Sign up at Inside Out or on their web site.
Renowned illusionist Jim Bailey, who delighted hundreds during a recent appearance at the Ogunquit Playhouse as a benefit for AIDS Response Seacoast will be doing an encore.
The People's Choice Winner and multi-Las Vegas Performer of the Year has also portrayed Barbra Streisand for Barbra herself. The two hour performance will be backed by a full orchestra and will feature such beloved Streisand classics as “Evergreen”, “The Way We Were” and “People”. Tickets for the benefit are available through The Ogunquit Playhouse at 207.646.5511. For more information contact Paul Brogan at AIDS Response Seacoast (603) 433-5377, ext. 2237.
The Club presents its 24th annual Mr. Speedo Contest, to be held on Ogunquit Beach - G Section, with MC Crazy Tommy. First place wins $500, second place $200. Winners will be announced at The Club's special T Dance at 4pm.
Voted New York's best drag queen by the readers of NYC's largest gay publication, Edie has performed everywhere from the MTV Music Awards to the Rosie O'Donnell show.
Ogunquit was discovered by Spaniard Sir Fernando Gorges. Gorges worked for the English Crown. Salsa, meringue and cumbia played for hours. Cher and Celine entertained visitors and locals. This years Fiesta was hosted by Amy and Barbara.....sigue la musica!
Two hundred and five of golf's finest met at the Cape Neddick Golf Club for the annual Gilda Radner Ovarian Cancer fund raiser. As usual much gaity - as well as "dike lights" , lemon drop vodkas , gourmet hot dogs - was experienced by all.
A lavish wine and hors d'oeuvres reception at The Black Boar Inn honoring GLAD. Since 1978 GLAD has used the courts to fight discrimination based on sexual orientation and to battle discrimination against people with HIV. Reserve tickets by calling the Black Boar Inn at 207.646.2112.
Hedda says "Makeovers Not War!" and she really means it. Watch this world renouned entertainer spread this and other messages Saturday, June 21 at Maine Street!
The town of Ogunquit was quite busy this week when Hollywood used the town for the set of the major motion picture, Empire Falls.
HBO Films is producing the movie, starring Ed Harris, Philip Seymour Hoffman, Helen Hunt, Paul Newman, Robin Wright Penn, Adain Quinn and Joanne Woodward. Adapted by Richard Russo ("Mohawk," "Nobody's Fool") from his Pulitzer Prize-winning novel of the same name, the film is directed by Fred Schepisi ("A Cry in the Dark," "Six Degrees of Separation").
New ownership, new hours, new energy! The bar is now open 7 days a week: Monday through Saturday 6pm to 1am, Sunday 3pm to 1am. There's free pool Monday-Thursday, hot dance party Friday and Saturday, and Karaoke with Jodeye on Sunday. Wednesday and Thursday Norm's on the bar, so come on over and find out his plans for Maine Street!
The Club begins its 24th year with the new VIP Lounge, an all new sound and light show featuring lasers, and a hot new web site. The VIP Lounge opens April 11, and the Rooftop Cafe will open May 9.
We don't often write reviews at Gay Ogunquit, but this Off-Broadway hit comedy is one of the most enjoyable evenings we've had in a long time. It's beautifully written, expertly acted, and works very well in the intimate stage at Maine Street. Run, don't walk to see this play. You'll be glad you did.
The girls from the popular television series Babewatch made a surprise appearance on Labor Day Weekend, creating quite a stir at the Mr. Speedo Contest, and leaving a mark on this town that won't be soon forgotten.
