‘Big’ shows up and shows out at the Alhambra

Why don’t you experience how BIG that this “BIG the musical” can be at the Alhambra Theatre & Dining, while tickets are still available?  They say that children and animals can steal a show, well, the critics are correct.  The young people in the ensemble and the youngsters who play Billy and Josh, in the Alhambra production, steal the show and our hearts with their songs, dancing and memory of all their lines.

Allow me to focus on the character of Billy played by Jon Ashton Reid.  Jon had some great harmony with Young Josh (Ari Walz) when they sang “You’re a Big Boy Now”.  Jon is the son of Dr. Carolyn and Mr. Gerald Reid, and young Jon attends Jacksonville Country Day School where he hones his musical talents.  Ari had two songs by himself (“I Want To Go Home & Big”) that he phenomenally sang.

The entire adult Ensemble stepped-it-up in the production, and carried great tunes from the direction of choreographer Parker Slaybaugh* and the musical direction of Cathy Murphy.  The adults hold their own with upbeat songs throughout the presentation especially “MacMillan Toys” and “Coffee, Black”.  Well done troupe!!!

As in years past, the Alhambra Theatre & Dining has been an excellent venue for Birthdays, Anniversaries and for Prom celebrations.  Where else can you get dinner, a great show, a chance to get dressed up and have a great memorable evening all at one event?  Well, Valdosta Open Bible Christian School once again chose the Alhambra to have their “2019 senior prom”.  Take a look at the fun that the school had a few years ago when that group attended another play, for their 2017 prom.

Even if you’ve never seen the motion picture, you will appreciate the storyline that producer/director Tod Booth* has done with the local run of “BIG, the musical” in JAX.  The meal, as always, is fabulous.  If you like Corned Beef, then you’ll enjoy the Brown Sugar-Crusted Corned Beef dinner created by Executive Chef DeJuan Roy.  This writer chose Aunt Mae’s Fried Chicken and was not disappointed - very crisp & tasty.  The Potato & Bacon Chowder was the best and the Spring Salad was top notch.  The Banana Cream pie was a winner for the finale of my meal.  You cannot go wrong with any selection, and you will be full when you leave.

If you’d like to meet ‘ZOLTAR’, on and off stage (courtesy of Ian Black & Dave Dionne), then you’ll want to come to “BIG the Musical” asap.  The Walking or Big Piano is literally on stage.
(*denoted Actors’ Equity Association)

  ‟BIG
 The Musical”

DATES: March 27 — April 20, 2019

SHOW TIMES: Evening shows Tuesday through Sunday start at 8 p.m.  Doors open at 5:30 p.m., and dinner is served until 7:30 p.m.  Saturday Matinees begin at 1:15 p.m.  Doors open at 11 a.m. and the brunch served until 12:50 p.m.  Sunday Matinees are at 2 p.m.  Doors open at 12 p.m. and the meal is server until 1:30 p.m.

DRESS: “Business Casual” or “Sunday Best”.

TICKETS: Prices range from $38 – $66.  Ticket prices include: a plated three-course meal that changes for each show, and is served directly to your table; a Broadway-style performance and complimentary parking.  Tickets may be purchases on line, or by calling (904) 641-1212.
     **Prices do NOT include gratuity, professional photos, or orders from the bar**

LOCATION: Alhambra Theater & Dining
       12000 Beach Blvd.
       Jacksonville, Florida 32246
       (904) 641-1212