A GREAT WAY TO KICK OFF TWIST - OPENING WEEKEND
Ben Vereen, Phylicia Rashad, Diahann Carroll, CHH Pounder, and Marilyn McCoo all in attendance for opening night, but the real stars of the evening were the Twist kids. With a cast of thirty-two, twelve “urchins” kept things lively both on stage and off. Ranging from ages 8 to 17 this was many of the kids first time on the red carpet and they handled it like pros. When interviewed, they all kept their cool and had great things to say:
“It’s great to play a completely different person and encompass their personality and go through what they have to go through in the show. It’s great.”
- Alaman Diadhiou
“When I auditioned for Twist we had to sing, dance and act … (The most fun part of the show is) to be on stage and have that big rush.”
-Dempsey Tonks
The opening weekend festivities included two parties. The first was Saturday evening at AKA Bistro for the backers and donors of the theater. The second, the official opening, was a big party in the courtyard of the Playhouse and Elements restaurant. This party was definitely geared for the kids; a whole table of candy and chocolate, and a full ice cream buffet. There was even a table laden with lollipops, all made of cake - delicious, delightful, delectable, d’wonderful!
Both parties gave the kids a chance to dress in their best digs. Coco Monroe sported a huge, and I do mean huge, top hat, complete with Mardi Gras mask, while Alaman Diadhiou was stylish and slick. The “Three Supremes” (Micah Patterson, Julianna Rigoglioso, and Dempsey Tonks) sparkled in their designer gowns.
All the kids had an amazing time. Getting to meet such Broadway veterans and stars, inspired them to give performances that were beyond all expectations. All in all opening weekend was a huge success. Playing to sold-out crowds with standing ovations every night really makes all the weeks of long rehearsals worth it!
