By Adam Hetrick
20 Apr 2012

Haley Carlucci

Dan Domenech, Haley Carlucci and Edward Juvier will take a magic carpet ride in the Tuacahn Amphitheatre production of Disney’s Aladdin this summer.

Domenech (Rock of Ages) will take on the title role, with Carlucci (West Side Story) as Princess Jasmine and Juvier (Les Miserables) as the Genie.

The principal cast will also include Michael G. Hawkins (Peter Pan) as Jafar, Jeff Asch as Iago, Paul Vogt (The Little Mermaid) as Babkak, Randy Aaron as Omar, Todd Dubail (Tarzan) as Kassim and Bob Walton as Sultan.

Complete casting and creative duties will be announced shortly.

The Tuacahn production marks the first regional engagement of the newly expanded and revised production of Aladdin, which first debuted at Seattle’s 5th Avenue Theatre July 7, 2011.Tuacahn artistic director Scott S. Anderson will stage the production that is set to run in repertory with Hairspray through October. The company also presented the post-Broadway regional premieres of Disney’s The Little Mermaid and Tarzan.

The two-hour and 15-minute stage adaptation incorporates the Academy Award-winning songs from the 1992 film, penned by composer Alan Menken (Sister Act, Leap of Faith, Newsies) and lyricists Howard Ashman (Little Shop of Horrors, The Little Mermaid) and Tim Rice (Evita, Jesus Christ Superstar), with a new book by Chad Beguelin (The Wedding Singer), who has also penned new lyrics along with Menken. Aladdin also restores several songs that were cut prior to the original film release.

The Tuacahn production is staged by special arrangement with Disney Theatrical Productions and Music Theater International.

Visit Tuacahn.org.

JUILLIARD JAZZ ORCHESTRA

Tuacahn Hafen Theatre

Thursday, March 15, 7:30 PM

The Juilliard Jazz Orchestra made its debut in Alice Tully Hall at New York City’s Lincoln Center in 2001. Since then, the orchestra has appeared in venues throughout the United States, Europe, and Central America. Performing repertoire spanning the jazz spectrum from Duke Ellington and Hoagy Carmichael to Wynton Marsalis, this exciting collaboration between The Juilliard School and Jazz at Lincoln Center consists of the most talented jazz students from around the nation.

2012 marks an exciting return to Tuacahn for this acclaimed ensemble. Sure to be an unforgettable experience for any music lover, these student-musicians will present a thrilling night of jazz in an evening not to be missed. “Juilliard’s reputation for quality music is second-to-none,” says Tuacahn Associate Producer Jeff Martin. “We’re happy for this renowned institution’s jazz ensemble to make a return to Tuacahn this season.”

The Juilliard Jazz Orchestra will appear at Tuacahn Thursday, March 15 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets, priced at $18.50, are available at the Tuacahn box office by calling (435) 652-3300/(800) 746-9882 or online at tuacahn.org.

CHICAGO

Tuacahn Amphitheatre

Saturday, March 17, 7:30 PM

Starting in 1967, well before all the hits started flowing, Chicago established a reputation for its powerful live show. Fueled by a passion for music, Chicago’s members exploded the conventions of what rock music could or should be. The result was a groundbreaking new form, played by extraordinarily talented musicians. Early fans like Jimi Hendrix and Janis Joplin were sufficiently impressed–they took the group out on their respective tours. Once the group began making records, fans rewarded the group with record sales of 100,000,000, 21 Top 10 singles, 5 consecutive Number One albums, 11 Number One Singles and 5 Gold singles. An incredible 25 of their 32 albums have been certified platinum. To date, Chicago is the first American band to chart Top 40 albums in five decades–a landmark accomplishment.

Today, Chicago consists of Robert Lamm (keyboard, vocals), Tris Imboden (drums), James Pankow (trombone), Jason Scheff (bass, vocals), Lee Loughnane (trumpet), Lou Pardini (keyboards, vocals), Walt Parazaider (woodwinds), and Keith Howland (guitar). This legendary band’s vast catalog of hit songs includes “If You Leave Me Now,” “Hard to Say I’m Sorry,” “Look Away,” You’re the Inspiration,” Hard Habit to Break,” and much more.

Tickets for Chicago’s Tuacahn debut on Saturday, March 17 at 8:00 p.m. are now on sale for $49.50-$79.50 at the Tuacahn box office by calling (435) 652-3300/(800) 746-9882 or online at tuacahn.org.

THE PINK FLOYD EXPERIENCE
Presenting WISH YOU WERE HERE Live!
Tuacahn Amphitheatre
Friday, March 30, 7:30 PM

Years since their last live performance, Pink Floyd’s appeal continues and spans the generations. Their shows were described as highly theatrical events with sophisticated lights and unsurpassed sound. The show is not only onstage–it engulfs the audience. In keeping with this tradition, The Pink Floyd Experience is a full-on sensory assault–interpretive videos, plane crashes, flying pig, helicopter–it’s all there, LIVE! This is the show for the ultimate Floyd fan, and it gets closer to the true Pink Floyd concert experience every year.

In addition to Wish You Were Here, all of Pink Floyd’s greatest hits are performed live including such favorites as “Pigs,” “Money,” “Time,” “Comfortably Numb,” “Run Like Hell” and many rarities not often heard live.

Some Floyd facts: More than 200-million albums have been sold since 1967; four Grammy nominations in the ‘70s, ‘80s, and ‘90s; they were one of the first bands to use pyrotechnics, video, and light shows in their stage acts; they were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1996. “Dark Side of the Moon” broke all chart records when it stayed on the Billboard Top 200 Album charts for 741 weeks. It stayed there from 1973 to 1988. Nearly 1,000,000 Pink Floyd catalog albums are sold each year worldwide.

Don’t miss out on The Pink Floyd Experience at Tuacahn on Friday, March 23, 7:30 p.m. Tickets are available now for $15.50-$24.50 at tuacahn.org or by calling (435) 652-3300/(800) 746-9882.

38 SPECIAL

Tuacahn Amphitheatre
Friday, March 30, 8:00 PM

After more than three decades together, 38 Special continue to bring their signature blast of Southern Rock to more than 100 cities a year. Their many Gold and Platinum albums stand in testament to the endurance of this legendary band.

Since 1976, the band has released more than 15 albums. From the start, they’ve toured relentlessly, bringing their signature brand of ‘muscle and melody’ to fans worldwide. With sales in excess of 20 million albums, most people associate the band with their arena-rock pop smashes, “Hold On Loosely,” “Rockin’ Into the Night,” “Caught Up in You,” “Fantasy Girl,” “If I’d Been the One,” “Back Where You Belong,” “Chain Lightnin’,” “Second Chance,” and more–timeless hits that remain a staple on the radio and are immediately recognizable from the first opening chord.

The co-founders of the group, vocalist Donnie Van Zant and guitarist/vocalist Don Barnes, say it’s all about maintaining that intensity in their live shows. Barnes says, “We never wanted to be one of those bands that had maybe gotten a little soft or complacent over the years. We’re a team, and it’s always been kind of an unspoken rule that we don’t slack up, we stack up.”

Completing the 38 Special team are guitarist/vocalist Danny Chauncey, bassist Larry “L.J.” Junstrom, drummer Gary Moffatt, and keyboardist/vocalist Bobby Capps.

Now you can experience 38 Special’s music live in concert at the Tuacahn Amphitheatre on Friday, March 30 at 8:00 p.m. Tickets, priced from $24.50-$39.50 can be purchased at the Tuacahn box office online at tuacahn.org or by calling (435) 652-3300/(800) 746-9882.

THE LETTERMEN
Tuacahn Amphitheatre
Friday, April 6, 8:00 PM

Since its inception in the late 1950s, the vision for The Lettermen has always been to combine the talents of three very strong soloists who also have the ability and showmanship to perform and entertain an audience with the discipline needed to sing in a group.  The sound they came up with was a sound between the big band vocal groups such as the Modernaires, Pied Pipers and Mills Brothers, and the early R&B rock groups such as the Flamingos and the Platters. Fifty years later, their quintessential sound continues to entertain audiences around the world.

The Lettermen are: Tony Butala, Donovan Tea and Bobby Poynton. In the late 1950s, most vocal groups had school-related names—such as Danny & the Juniors, The Four Freshmen, and The Four Preps—and The Lettermen’s signature name and style held close to that tradition. By the time such names became passé in the early sixties, however, The Lettermen had scored several hits and were already a tremendous success. They did eventually pack away their trademark sweaters, and fortunately, their fans have gotten past the name.

The Lettermen first appeared in February 1958 at the Desert Inn Hotel Resort in Las Vegas. Since then, the group has continued to perform and record throughout the world. Their soft, melodic, and romantic sound (most evident in the 1961 hit “The Way You Look Tonight”) was a clear departure from the rock ‘n’ roll music of the day. That song shot to number thirteen on the Billboard chart and was quickly followed by the group’s second single that year, “When I Fall In Love,” which performed even better by landing at number seven. The success of these two songs firmly established The Lettermen as one of the most romantic singing groups of the 1960s. Their signature sound also made romantic standards of songs such as “Smile,” “Put Your Head On My Shoulder,” “Shangri-La,” “Love” and on and on. Throughout the years, the trio has undergone a few personnel changes, but the group’s beloved music and classy style has secured their spot as one of the greatest vocal groups of all time.

The Lettermen will take to the stage at 8:00 p.m. on Friday, March 25, at the Tuacahn Amphitheatre. Tickets, priced from $15.50-$25.50, are available at the Tuacahn box office by calling (435) 652-3300/(800) 746-9882 or online at tuacahn.org.

THREE DOG NIGHT

Tuacahn Amphitheatre
Friday, April 13, 8:00 PM

Legendary music icons Three Dog Night celebrate their 4th decade bringing with them some of the most astonishing statistics in popular music. In the years 1969 through 1974, no other group achieved more top 10 hits, moved more records or sold more concert tickets than Three Dog Night.

The band’s hits wind through the fabric of pop culture today. Whether on the radio, in TV commercials, or in major motion pictures, songs like “Mama Told Me (Not To Come),” “Joy to the World,” “Black and White,” “Shambala,” and “One,” serve to heighten our emotions and crystallize Three Dog Night’s continuing popularity.

Three Dog Night maintain an aggressive, year-round touring schedule of more than 80 dates a year. Their well-loved hits plus great new songs are performed for audiences spanning several generations by founding members Cory Wells and Danny Hutton on lead vocals, as well as original keyboardist Jimmy Greenspoon and guitarist Michael Allsup. Paul Kingery (bass and vocals) and Pat Bautz (drums) complete the lineup.

Now Southern Utah music lovers can hear this legendary band’s music live at Tuacahn for the very first time. Three Dog Night will perform at the Tuacahn Amphitheatre on Friday, April 13 at 8:00 p.m. Tickets can be purchased at the Tuacahn box office for $29.50-$44.50 by calling (435) 652-3300/(800) 746-9882 or online at tuacahn.org.

LEA SALONGA
Tuacahn Amphitheatre
Saturday, April 21, 8:00 PM

Singer and actress Lea Salonga is best known for her Tony and Olivier Award-winning performance as Kim in Miss Saigon in London and New York. She was the first Asian to play Eponine in Les Misérables on Broadway and returned to the show as Fantine in the 2006 revival. Lea recently participated in the 25th anniversary concert of Les Misérables at London’s O2 Arena, the film version of which has played PBS stations across the country. She also impressed audiences as Grizabella in a limited run of CATS in her hometown of Manila. Many fans of all ages recognize Lea as the singing voice of Princess Jasmine from the animated Disney film Aladdin and Fa Mulan in Disney’s Mulan and Mulan II.

Lea played her first US concert tour in 2005 in San Francisco, Los Angeles, Atlantic City, and Chicago. Concert dates in Washington, D.C. and Norfolk, Virginia followed. Later that year, she performed to a sold-out crowd at Carnegie Hall. Lea began her recording career at the age of ten with her gold-certified first album, Small Voice. Subsequent albums include Lea (1988), Inspired (2007), and numerous live concert and Broadway albums.

Lea’s big break came when she was selected to play Kim in the musical Miss Saigon in 1989, for which she won an Olivier Award. She subsequently moved with the show to Broadway and garnered the Tony, Drama Desk, Outer Critics Circle, and the Theatre World Awards for the same role. In 2002, she returned to Broadway to play the role of a Chinese immigrant in a reinterpretation of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Flower Drum Song opposite Jose Llana.

Tickets are now available at the Tuacahn box office for Lea Salonga’s Southern Utah concert debut for $29.50-$44.50 by calling (435) 652-3300/(800) 746-9882 or online at tuacahn.org.
MARTINA MCBRIDE
Tuacahn Amphitheatre
Saturday, April 28, 8:00 PM

One of the most spectacular voices in any genre of music, Martina McBride is a four-time CMA Female Vocalist of the Year, three-time ACM Female Vocalist of the Year and GRAMMY® winning recording artist with more than 18 million in album sales and 24 Top 10 singles, including six that hit #1. The breadth of her talents–as recording artist, producer, songwriter, and concert entertainer–has made her an in-demand performer and personality, appearing on such high-profile programs as VH1 Divas (singing with Jordin Sparks), Dancing with the Stars, the Today show’s “Today Throws a Wedding,” American Idol, Oprah, The Bachelorette, Private Sessions, a 20/20 special, and much more. Celebrated for her beauty and sense of fashion, as well as her everywoman perspective in life and music, Martina is a wife and mother of three girls who has been featured on the covers of publications like Redbook, Ladies Home Journal, People Magazine, Country Weekly and Shape.

Among her hits are such anthemic and empowering songs as “Independence Day,” “This One’s for the Girls,” and “Ride,” all of which have underscored her incredible popularity as one of music’s preeminent female vocalists. Martina’s first album on Republic Nashville, ELEVEN, was released last fall and includes her first new music since 2009–“Teenage Daughters” and her current single, “I’m Gonna Love You Through It.” Last year she was nominated for the 2011 CMT Music Awards CMT Performance of the Year from CMT CROSSROADS: TRAIN AND MARTINA MCBRIDE and recently earned a CMA Award nomination for Female Vocalist of the Year.

Martina McBride makes her Tuacahn debut on Saturday, April 28 at 8:00 p.m. Tickets, priced from $55.50-$89.50 are available at the Tuacahn box office by calling (435) 652-3300/(800) 746-9882 or online at tuacahn.org.

BRIAN REGAN

Tuacahn Amphitheatre

May 10–12, 8:00 PM

Critics and peers agree, Brian Regan has distinguished himself as one of the premier comedians in the country. The perfect balance of sophisticated writing and physicality, Brian fills theaters nationwide with fervent fans that span generations.

Releasing two critically acclaimed hour Comedy Central specials and DVD’s in as many years–2008’s “The Epitome of Hyperbole,” and 2007’s “Brian Regan Standing Up”–Brian has set a standard of excellence that others continually try to follow.

Brian’s non-stop theater tour has visited more than 80 cities each year since 2005 and continues through 2009. It is the quality of his material, relatable to a wide audience and revered by his peers, which continues to grow Brian’s fan base.

With his first appearance on “The Late Show with David Letterman” in 1995, Brian solidified his place on the show and recently made his 20th appearance. He also includes regular visits with Conan O’Brien on his schedule.

A dorm room favorite, Brian’s 1997 CD, “Brian Regan Live,” has sold over 150,000 copies and consistently charts in iTunes’ Top Ten Comedy Albums. Brian’s 2000 “Comedy Central Presents” special continues to be a top viewer choice and Brian’s independently released 2004 DVD, “I Walked on the Moon,” is available at brianregan.com.

Following three sold-out performances in 2009 and 2010, Brian Regan returns to Tuacahn May 10-12 at 8:00 p.m. Tickets are available by calling the Tuacahn box office at (435) 652-3300/(800) 746-9882 or online at tuacahn.org for $34.50-$44.50.

HUEY LEWIS AND THE NEWS

Tuacahn Amphitheatre

Monday, August 27, 8:30 PM

Huey Lewis and The News have been together for more than three decades. Formed from two rival Bay Area bands in 1979, their contagious brand of straight-ahead rock ‘n’ roll has outlasted countless trends, selling over 20 million albums worldwide in the process. Huey Lewis and The News have carried the banner as the quintessential American rock band, endearing them to millions of fans and earning them the right to claim their place on the pop history map.

These Grammy Award winners have written and performed such classic hits as “Heart of Rock and Roll,” “Stuck With You,” “I Want A New Drug,” “If This Is It,” “Hip To Be Square,” and “Workin’ For A Livin’.” The group also wrote and performed “The Power of Love” and “Back in Time” for the hit film

Back to the Future. “The Power of Love,” which was nominated for an Academy Award, went all the way to number one on Billboard’s singles chart.

As great a recording career as the band has had, it’s their live performances that remain the stuff of legend. They have toured worldwide continuously for more than 30 years. Huey Lewis and The News incorporate a variety of musical influences, including R&B and soul, to create their own unique sound. One of the highlights of their show is their a cappella rendition of early rock ‘n’ roll classics such as “Sixty Minute Man,” “Under the Boardwalk,” and “It’s Alright.”

Huey Lewis and The News are: Huey Lewis (vocals and harmonica), Johnny Colla (saxophone, guitar and vocals), Bill Gibson (drums, percussion and vocals), Sean Hopper (keyboards and vocals), Stef Burns (guitars and vocals) and John Pierce (bass). Their live show features a horn section of San Francisco bay area luminaries Marvin McFadden (trumpet), Rob Sudduth (tenor saxophone) and Johnnie Bamont (baritone saxophone).

Huey Lewis and the News will perform live at the Tuacahn Amphitheatre on Monday, August 27 at 8:30 p.m. Tickets, priced from $49.50-$74.50, are available at the Tuacahn box office by calling (435) 652-3300/(800) 746-9882 or online at tuacahn.org.

SHANGRI-LA CHINESE ACROBATS

Tuacahn Amphitheatre

Friday, November 2, 7:30 PM

For more than thirty years, the performances of The Shangri-La Chinese Acrobats have been met with acclaim and enthusiasm by people throughout the United States. And it’s no wonder!

Under the direction of Chinese acrobatic legends, the Hai Family, the company flawlessly interprets the precision and grace of an art form honed by years of training and discipline. Their multi-faceted and multi-cultural production features dazzling acrobatic displays, formidable feats of daring and balance, explosive Kung Fu, brilliant costumes, and even a touch of Chinese comedy.

The Shangri-la Chinese Acrobats have made numerous TV appearances including That’s Incredible. The troupe was awarded the Performing Arts Campus Entertainment Award by the National Association for Campus Activities Today and the Reader’s Choice Award for Best Live Novelty Act. This troupe has also had the honor of performing at the USA Olympic Swim Team’s Golden Goggles Gala.

High-wire feats and show-stopping ground acts will have audiences clamoring for more!

Tickets for the Shangri-la Chinese Acrobats, priced from $17.50-$12.50 are available at the Tuacahn box office by calling (435) 652-3300/(800) 746-9882 or online at tuacahn.org.
STAYIN’ ALIVE: ONE NIGHT OF THE BEE GEES
Tuacahn Amphitheatre
Saturday, November 3, 7:30 PM

The Bee Gees have been captivating audiences for more than five decades with their unique vocal sound while remaining current through all the eras of contemporary music. The tight harmonies of the brothers Barry, Robin, and Maurice Gibbs have made the Bee Gees one of the most impossible attractions to copy in a full musical concert performance–until Stayin’ Alive.

With impressive vocals and musicians, Stayin’ Alive creates an authentic live Bee Gees concert experience–not only does this group sound like the Bee Gees, they look like them, too! The show covers the full history of the Bee Gees with songs including “To Love Somebody,” “Words,” “Massachusetts,” “I Started a Joke,” Jive Talking,” “More Than A Woman,” “Night Fever,” “You Should be Dancing,” “Stayin’ Alive,” and many more.

By 1979, the Bee Gees had made five Platinum albums which had 35 hit songs between them, thirteen of which reached number one on the Billboard charts. Their album Saturday Night Fever alone sold more than 30 million copies and is still selling today.

You will never again see the Bee Gees in concert, so don’t miss Stayin’ Alive. It’s a night everyone will long remember! Tickets are now on sale for $15,50-$24.50 online at tuacahn.org or by calling (435) 652-3300/(800) 746-9882.

THE NASHVILLE TRIBUTE BAND
Tuacahn Amphitheatre
Friday, November 9, 7:30 PM

Award-winning songwriter and Nashville record producer Jason Deere regularly invites a revolving cast of talented artists and musicians he calls The Nashville Tribute Band to join him in touring the world performing the stories and songs from the albums Joseph: A Nashville Tribute To The Prophet, Trek: A Nashville Tribute To The Pioneers and THE WORK: A Nashville Tribute To The Missionaries. Over the years Dan Truman (of the Grammy Award-winning country group Diamond Rio), Brad Hull, Matt Lopez and Tim Gates (of the country group Due West), entertainer David Osmond, actor and recording artist Katherine Nelson, country artist Billy Dean, Ron Saltmarsh, pop artist Mindy Gledhill and Dyer Highway are all among those who have often joined with the band on stage.

The band has performed more than 500 shows for audiences in the U.S., Canada, Australia and China since 2004. They have performed in the Conference Center in Salt Lake City as well as several performances in the Tabernacle on Temple Square. 2012 marks the band’s fifth year performing as part Tuacahn’s annual concert series.

In June of 2005, The Nashville Tribute Band released their first album, Joseph: a Nashville Tribute to the Prophet. The recording became one of the best-selling LDS albums ever and has lead to hundreds of concerts by the band for people all over the United States, Canada, Australia and China. It’s also led to the subsequent albums, Trek: A Nashville Tribute to the Pioneers and The Work: A Nashville Tribute to the Missionaries.

Experience The Nashville Tribute Band when they return to Tuacahn on Friday, November 9, at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are now on sale by calling (435) 652-3300/(800) 746-9882 or online at tuacahn.org.

BYU MEN’S CHORUS

Rosalind Hall, conductor

Tuacahn Amphitheatre

Saturday, November 10, 7:30 PM

At 190 voices strong, the Brigham Young University Men’s Chorus is the largest and one of the most popular men’s choirs in the United States. Conducting this critically-acclaimed choir is Rosalind Hall, a graduate from the Royal Academy of Music with a host of accolades to her name. Men’s Chorus is known for concerts full of every kind of music audiences love to hear, with pieces featuring Gregorian chant, classical pieces, hymns, spirituals, traditional arrangements, or even a fully choreographed popular song.

The Men’s Chorus has earned a place as one of BYU’s most popular choirs thanks to their rich sound, eclectic performances, and powerful style. As their reputation grows, so grows the demand for performances throughout the West where they give sell-out performances to loyal fans and new faces alike. The chorus has traveled to California, Arizona, Nevada, Idaho, and throughout Utah and has performed at numerous prestigious events and venues.

The Men’s Chorus originates in the School of Music in the College of Fine Arts and Communications at Brigham Young University in Provo, Utah. BYU is one of the nation’s largest private universities with an enrollment of 30,000 full-time students from throughout the United States and 110 foreign countries.

Tickets of the Tuacahn debut of the BYU Men’s Chorus are now available for $12.50-$15.50 online at tuacahn.org or by calling (435) 652-3300/(800) 746-9882.

Reserved seating tickets for all of Tuacahn’s spring concerts are now on sale by calling (435) 652-3300/(800) 746-9882 or online at tuacahn.org. Tuacahn is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization.

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Based on the acclaimed 1992 Disney film, Aladdin will be performed each Monday, Wednesday, and Friday evening, June 1–October 18. Tickets are now available at the Tuacahn box office, by calling (435) 652-3300/(800) 746-9882 or online at tuacahn.org.

The music for Aladdin is written by eight-time Academy Award winning composer Alan Menken (Tangled, Beauty and the Beast, The Little Mermaid); lyrics are by the late Howard Ashman (Beauty and the Beast, The Little Mermaid, Little Shop of Horrors), Tim Rice (The Lion King, Jesus Christ Superstar, Chess) and Chad Beguelin (The Wedding Singer), who also crafted the new book for the show. Variety hailed this new full-length stage version of Aladdin as ‘fresh, funny and very entertaining.’

This new stage adaptation of Aladdin premiered at Seattle’s 5^th Avenue Theatre in July 2011 and incorporates all of the beloved songs from the film’s Oscar®-winning score plus never-before heard Menken/Ashman songs restored from early drafts of the score. It marks a return to the authors’ original vision: a loving homage to the Hope-Crosby road pictures with a score invoking the jazz sound of stars like Cab Calloway and Fats Waller.

Released in 1992, the animated film Aladdin received critical acclaim and grossed more than $504 million worldwide becoming the #1 film of the year. Adapted from the classic Middle Eastern and Asian folktales in One Thousand and One Nights, Aladdin tells the story of a quick-witted young street dweller that uses the magic wishes from an omnipotent Genie to pursue the hand of a beautiful princess. The beloved film featured the Oscar®-winning song, “A Whole New World” and “Friend Like Me” and was praised for its clever script and show-stopping score.

Scott S. Anderson, Tuacahn’s Artistic Director, will direct Aladdin. Anderson also helmed the Tuacahn premieres of The Little Mermaid, Tarzan, and Les Misérables and will assemble an eclectic cast, crew, and creative team of professionals from Utah, California, and New York to bring the show to life in Tuacahn’s typical thrilling fashion.

Aladdin is licensed through a special arrangement with Disney Theatrical Productions and Music Theater International in New York. Tuacahn is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization.

Osborn, a graduate of Brigham Young University’s musical theatre program, is no stranger to the stage in Ivins. She previously spent five summers on the outdoor stage in a variety of productions including The Music Man, Seven Brides for Seven Brothers, and Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. “It’s wonderful to return to the place where I performed throughout my childhood,” she says. “My journey as a performer started at Tuacahn, so returning here brings back a lot of great memories for me. There really is no place as beautifully unique as Tuacahn.”

Some of Osborn’s additional credits include Dirty Rotten Scoundrels, Children of Eden, and Thoroughly Modern Millie. She also spent two years performing and touring with the BYU Young Ambassadors.

Regarding her new role as Frenchy, Osborn says, “I have always wanted to play a red head! Frenchy really is one-of-a-kind. She’s got such a kind heart, yet she’s still a little sassy. It’s such a fun and exciting role to play. Besides, who wouldn’t want to be a Pink Lady?”

Now you can experience Shayla Osborn as Frenchy in Tuacahn’s current production of Grease through October 20. Tickets are available online at tuacahn.org or by calling (435) 652-3300.

Tuacahn is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization.

Admission and entertainment is free.  Patrons can stroll along the tree-lined walkways near the water feature and browse the displays by local painters, artists, and crafters.  Food, including seasonal fruits and vegetables, will be available for purchase.

To commemorate National Poetry Month in April, the Utah State Poetry Society is sponsoring a youth poetry contest.  Gardening classes on a variety of topics such as growing and using fresh herbs or raising plants for the patio will be offered by the Plant Lady.

Organizers will also highlight special events and themes throughout the year.  These include the Fiesta Festival, April 16; Polynesian Festival, May 28; Native American culture, June 11; and a classic car show, May 14.  Additional highlights include the Rubber Duckie Race  for Cancer, July 23; Fine Arts Festival, September 24; Crazy for Quilt Festival, October 8; and Pumpkin Festival, October 25.

Additionally, visitors to the market can enter to win free tickets to Tuacahn’s concerts and theatrical productions.

Chris Graham, Tuacahn’s Gift Gallery Manager and Saturday Market organizer, says this can be a great opportunity for people looking for something fun to do on a Saturday morning and for crafters who want to earn additional income in the current economic climate.  “This is a fun weekend activity for locals and visitors alike,” she says.  “When the public comes together to support local artists and crafters it really helps builds a stronger community.”

This announcement comes as Tuacahn is in the middle of its most successful season featuring Disney’s Tarzan, CATS and the Gershwin musical comedy Crazy for You. Tarzan, based on the Disney film is breaking all box office records with over $2 million in sales surpassing Tuacahn’s 2008 production of Les Miserables. “The success of Disney’s Tarzan has contributed to receiving the rights to produce Disney’s The Little Mermaid,” says Scott Anderson, Tuacahn’s Artistic Director.

In its production of Disney’s Tarzan, Tuacahn has ten fly lines that carry actors over the audience, across the stage, and 867 feet above the canyon floor.  The production also makes use of the venue’s famous waterworks.  “The unique ability we have to move more than 18,000 gallons of water per minute creates the flood scene that sets the stage for the beginning of Tarzan,” says Kevin Warnick, Tuacahn’s Managing Director. Tuacahn plans to enhance and add to its waterworks effects for The Little Mermaid.

In preparing for Disney’s The Little Mermaid, Tuacahn has assembled a creative team who are developing several unique production elements that will take full advantage of Tuacahn’s outdoor environment.  “Audiences coming to see The Little Mermaid will see the stage and surrounding area shift between underwater and land scenes through a combination of exciting special effects that have never before been used together in the production of a full-length Broadway musical,” Mr. Anderson said.

Disney’s The Little Mermaid will perform each Monday, Wednesday and Friday from June 2 through October 21, 2011 and Grease will perform every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday from June 9 through October 20, 2011.  Ticket prices for adults will range from $29 to $59 and for children from $23 to $49.

Disney’s The Little Mermaid is based on the story by Hans Christian Andersen.  Book by Doug Wright.  Music by Alan Menken.  Lyrics by Howard Ashman and Glenn Slater.  Tuacahn’s production of Disney’s The Little Mermaid will be directed by Scott S. Anderson, and is presented at Tuacahn through special arrangements with Music Theatre International and Disney Theatrical Productions.

Tuacahn opened in 1995 and has been entertaining audiences with professional, Broadway-caliber theatrical productions each year.  The amphitheatre, which has 1,920 seats, is also used for Tuacahn’s annual spring and fall concerts.  This year more than 160,000 guests will visit Tuacahn as new attendance records have been established with its productions of Disney’s Tarzan, Cats, and Crazy for You, the Gershwin musical comedy.  Tuacahn is located in Ivins, Utah, near St. George in the southwest corner of the state.  Tuacahn is approximately 120 miles north of Las Vegas near Interstate 15.

Tuacahn Amphitheatre is a major contributor to the Southern Utah economy as nearly 60% of Tuacahn’s guests visit from outside the region.  These guests stay in hotels, dine in restaurants, shop at local businesses, sightsee and participate in many of the additional tourism activities the area has to offer.  “With our record-breaking attendance this season, we anticipate that guests visiting Tuacahn this year will contribute more than $40 million to the area economy,” Kevin Smith, Tuacahn’s CEO said.  “The impact to the area’s economy could reach more than $50 million next year as we expect even more guests with great shows like Grease and Disney’s Little Mermaid,” Smith added.

Tickets for Tuacahn’s  2011 seasons are on sale now and may be purchased online at www.tuacahn.org or via telephone at 435-652-3300 or toll free 866-321-8051.

Kevin Smith, Tuacahn CEO has been pleased in the company’s partnership with Golden Corral this year. “We really enjoy having the option of offering dinner to our patrons before the shows. It creates a more memorable experience and also is very convenient to them. This summer’s menu seems to be making everyone happy.”

The surroundings of the beautiful red rock in Padre Canyon lend an ambience best for eating outside, but guests have an option of choosing indoor or outdoor dining. The dinners start two hours prior to the nightly shows, which vary in performance times.

The offerings includes a salad bar, baked ham, lemon chicken, potatoes, rolls, vegetables, and delicious peach and black forest cobbler. Dinner tickets for dinner are $12.50 for adults and $9.50 for children 12 and under.

uacahn’s current productions include Annie and Footloose . The venue’s fall production of Aida begins performances August 25. For more information contact the Tuacahn Box Office by calling 800-746-9882 or 435-652-3300 or visit www.tuacahn.org .

Tuacahn also plans an additional canned food item donation night on September 15.

Last year Tuacahn donated more than 7,348 lbs. of canned food items to Dixie Care and Share following two canned-food drive performances in July and August.

“We’re committed to benefiting the local community whenever possible,” says Kevin Smith, Tuacahn’s CEO, “and during the summer months, donations plummet at the Care and Share. This gives them a much-needed boost to keep food on hand at a time when they really need it”

Smith says the food bank was appreciative of the donations received last year.  “It’s a great partnership,” he says. “We fill up the seats in the theatre, our patrons save a lot of money, and we are able to give food to those in need.”

Dixie Care and Share’s Director, Kara Coop, said the food donation in 2008 was a welcome sight. “Last year’s donation was wonderfully overwhelming.  We have a huge need for additional supplies during the summer months because we see a sharp increase in the number of children needing meals,” she says.

Tuacahn’s current productions include Annie and Footloose. The venue’s fall production of Aida begins performances August 25. For more information contact the Tuacahn Box Office by calling 800-746-9882 or 435-652-3300 or visit www.tuacahn.org.

Tuacahn Amphitheatre and Fabulous Freddy’s have joined forces to create Tuacahn satellite ticket counters in all Fabulous Freddy store locations in St. George, Utah and Summerlin, Nevada. To celebrate this new partnership, Fabulous Freddy’s is offering a free car wash when you purchase tickets to Annie, Footloose, Aida or Disney High School Musical 2 in the store now through August 31st 2009, some restriction apply.

With some of the most convenient locations in town, and with roughly 1,000 people entering each location every day and thousands more passing by, the North Bluff Street and the River Road locations are perfect for people wanting to buy tickets without having to travel to secluded Padre Canyon in Ivins.

“It will save time and gas for the majority of Washington County residents,” states Kevin Smith, Tuacahn Amphitheatre’s CEO. “You leave with a clean car and with genuine, printed tickets in-hand, so you can avoid the line at our box office before the shows.”

“Fabulous Freddy’s thrives on delivering on our Mission Statement. We want to provide a Fabulous Experience to our customers,” says Brett Warnick, general manager of both St. George Fabulous Freddy’s locations. “Tuacahn does an excellent job with its programs.  This a great partnership that allows Tuacahn and us to serve the community together.” As part of this partnership Fabulous Freddy’s will also be providing valet services at all Tuacahn events.

All Tuacahn Amphitheater event tickets can be purchased at St.George Utah locations on Bluff Street (806 North Bluff), River Road (134 South River Road), or the Summerlin store in Las Vegas, Nevada (9611 Trailwood Dr.).