A British Invasion at Signature Theatre


One of the jewels of the DMV's theatre scene is Signature Theatre of Arlington. The shows produced at this gorgeous space, are always new and exciting. So much so, that the theatre itself won a regional Tony award in 2009. That's an amazing accomplishment in itself, but since then, they've continued to push the envelope with their productions. Currently running at the Signature is Assassins by Stephen Sondheim. While the show has always been edgy and maybe just a bit warped, what they've done with it, is (I've heard) revolutionary.

 Though I haven't managed to snag tickets yet, I did visit the theatre to attend another of Signature's - well, signature events. Every few weeks, in the Arc theatre, singers, dancers and actors alike perform in specially curated cabarets. The Arc is a black box theatre, with a small stage and about 30 tables. Ali's bar has specialty drinks on tap, and a few snacks to tide you over until dinner at one of the surrounding restaurants. It's all very 54 Below-ish without the trek to NYC. 

 A few weeks ago, Wesley Taylor was there, in a performance I was super sad to miss. This week though, the cabaret was dedicated to the British Invasion of the 1950s and 60s. Four amazing performers - Chris Urquiaga, Hasani Allen, Crystal Mosser and Nicholas McDonough, accompanied by a live band - sang songs by the likes of The Beatles, Petula Clark, Rolling Stones, and many more. This group of DMV-area actors joined together to create the show.

 Singing their way through the decade, they spoke about how this invasion of all things British went down in the US, as well as joked about the bands, and chatted with the audience. Two performers - Chris Urquiaga and Hasani Allen - accompanied on the piano and the electric guitar. To say this quad was talented would be an understatement. During the more rousing songs - like Twist and Shout - the audience (mostly season ticket holders) even participated, twisting and shouting along with the band. 

 Like I said, British Invasion was the first cabaret performance I've attended at Signature, but after such a fun afternoon, I'm sure it won't be the last. The chance to support local theatre, while bopping along to fabulous tunes, is a chance you can't pass up. If you're interested, check out Signature Theatre's site for more information on upcoming shows. And while you're at it make a day of it, and buy tickets to a show after the cabaret. You won't be disappointed!  

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