Broadway and the Stars

Today is the “Great North American Eclipse,” in which Earth’s Moon will pass between the Sun and the Earth. Areas of Mexico, the United States and Canada will experience a total eclipse during part of the day. Kansas City will experience 89.3% of the eclipse at approximately 1:54 p.m. CDT.

One place where the stars always shine brightly is the Starlight stage! This summer, our Broadway Series includes shows that display many qualities associated with star signs.

First up is The Cher Show as Taurus. Cher was born on May 20 and is indeed a Taurus. There are several Taurus qualities that seem to resonate with her persona: strength, resilience, determination, persistence, style, practicality, and stubbornness.

Taurus individuals are known for their inner strength and resilience. For six decades, Cher has dominated popular culture — breaking down barriers, pushing boundaries, and letting nothing and no one stand in her way. She has faced numerous challenges throughout her life and career, yet she consistently bounces back from setbacks in various fields, including music, acting, and fashion.

Other qualities associated with Taurus are sensuality and an appreciation for beauty and luxury. Cher’s iconic sense of style, characterized by glamorous fashion choices and bold statements, reflects these qualities. She exudes an aura of confidence and allure, embracing her sensuality both on and off the stage.

The Cher Show is the Tony Award-winning® musical of her story, and it’s packed with so much Cher that it takes three women to play her: the kid starting out, the glam pop star, and the icon.

Representing Aires is STOMP, the percussion-based performance group known for its high-energy and innovative shows. STOMP shares several qualities with the zodiac sign Aries, including passion, energy, courage, and innovation.

Aries are known for their passion and high energy levels. STOMP’s performances are characterized by their dynamic rhythms, intense physicality, and lively choreography.

STOMP’s approach to performance, which often involves unconventional instruments and experimental techniques, demonstrates a similar boldness and willingness to push boundaries in pursuit of artistic expression. The eight-member troupe uses everything but conventional percussion instruments – matchboxes, wooden poles, brooms, garbage cans, Zippo lighters, hubcaps – to fill the stage with magnificent rhythms.

STOMP’s success as a self-produced and self-directed ensemble reflects an independent spirit, as they have carved out a niche for themselves in the entertainment industry for more 30 years through their innovative approach to percussion-based performance.

Disney’s The Little Mermaid seems most fitting as Aquarius. Known for their individuality, idealism, rebellion, and friendship, the story of Ariel and her quest to follow her own dreams reflect the many values associated with Aquarius.

Aquarius is known for valuing individuality and marching to the beat of its own drum. Ariel is a mermaid who feels like she doesn’t quite fit in with the other merfolk. She dreams of exploring the human world and pursuing her own path, despite the expectations placed upon her.

Ariel’s fascination with the human world stems from her idealistic view of it. She believes humans to be fascinating and admirable creatures, not the horrible monsters her father and Sebastian make them out to be.

Aquarians are known for their rebellious streak and their desire for freedom and independence. Ariel defies her father, King Triton, and the rules of the sea in her quest to be with Prince Eric.

Ariel’s friendships with various characters, including Flounder, Sebastian, and Scuttle highlight the importance of connection and collaboration, qualities that resonate with the social nature of Aquarius.

Shrek the Musical can be interpreted to embody several qualities associated with the zodiac sign Capricorn, including ambition, determination, responsibility, realism, and self-sufficiency.

Capricorns are known for their ambitious nature and strong work ethic. Shrek demonstrates determination and ambition as he embarks on a quest to reclaim his swamp and confronts obstacles along the way.

Shrek is the unlikely hero who reluctantly accepts the responsibility of rescuing Princess Fiona to regain control of his swamp. Despite his initial reluctance, he takes his duty seriously and ultimately fulfills his obligations, showcasing the sense of responsibility commonly associated with Capricorn.

Portrayed as a pragmatic ogre who deals with challenges practically, Shrek approaches problems with a level-headed attitude, focusing on practical solutions rather than allowing himself to be swept away by fairytale fantasies or idealism.

Several qualities associated with the zodiac sign Cancer are highlighted in Come From Away, such as compassion, community, sensitivity, and security.

Cancers are known for their nurturing and compassionate nature. Come From Away tells the true story of a small town in Newfoundland, Canada, that opened its doors to thousands of stranded passengers following the September 11 attacks.

The kindness and compassion shown by the residents of Gander towards the stranded “come from aways” exemplify Cancer’s value of caring for others and providing emotional support in times of need.

Despite being strangers, the passengers and the locals form strong bonds and create a sense of belonging, reflecting Cancer’s desire for a supportive and nurturing community environment.

Come From Away portrays the emotional journey of both the stranded passengers and the residents of Gander as they grapple with fear, uncertainty, and grief in the aftermath of the terrorist attacks. The musical sensitively explores the range of emotions experienced by the characters, highlighting a capacity for empathy and understanding.

Known for its dualities and contrasts, Gemini is the perfect sign to represent West Side Story.

A modern retelling of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, West Side Story’s “two households, both alike in dignity,” are portrayed through the rivalry between the Jets and the Sharks, and the love story between Tony and Maria, members of opposing factions. The conflict between love and hate, hope and despair, and belonging and alienation reflects the dualistic nature often associated with Gemini.

This quality is illustrated in the song “America,” where the women are excited by American conveniences such as washing machines, but the men are concerned about being overcharged and paid less because of their accents.

West Side Story explores complex themes such as prejudice, identity, and social justice, encouraging audiences to engage with these ideas on an intellectual level. The story challenges stereotypes and invites viewers to question their assumptions about race, ethnicity, and cultural identity, reflecting Gemini’s curiosity and openness to exploring different perspectives.

Peter Pan can be interpreted to embody several qualities associated with the zodiac sign Leo including leadership, charisma, theatricality, youthful energy, and courage.

Leos are natural leaders with magnetic charisma. Peter embodies these qualities as the leader of the Lost Boys. His confident and charismatic demeanor inspires others to follow him, and he takes charge of leading his friends on adventures in Neverland.

Peter Pan is filled with imaginative sets, colorful costumes, and dynamic musical numbers. The character of Peter Pan himself is known for his theatrical flair and dramatic entrances, capturing the Leo penchant for grandiosity and showmanship.

Leos are youthful at heart and enjoy playfulness and fun. Peter Pan celebrates the joys of childhood and adventure, with characters engaging in playful antics and whimsical escapades. Peter Pan’s refusal to grow up embodies the Leo desire to maintain a youthful spirit and zest for life.

This musical full of excitement and adventure features iconic and timeless songs including “I’m Flying,” “I Gotta Crow,” “I Won’t Grow Up,” and “Neverland.”

Images: The Cher Show, photos by Meredith Mashburn Photography. STOMP, created by Luke Cresswell and Steve NcNicholas. © Steve McNicholas. Shrek the Musical, images by Full Out Creative. Come From Away, photos by Matthew Murphy for MurphyMade. Peter Pan, photos by Matthew Murphy for MurphyMade.