Now is the perfect time for uplifting holiday fare at the Act II Playhouse’s rousing tribute to Cole Porter, Cole For Your Stocking.
This show includes song-and-dance numbers, tap dancing, a few ballads, and infectious optimism then look no further than
The current production, through January 1, is a musical cabaret for the holiday season and has its world premiere debuting at Act II Playhouse.
A fizzy, frothy dry martini of a musical revenue, Cole For Your Stocking promises to be a swanky, jazzy evening of Cole Porter favorites and standards including, “You’re the Top,” “Night and Day,” “Friendship” and many more!
“The catchy tunes of Cole Porter are all enjoyable ear-worms,” says Act II Artistic Director, Tony Braithwaite, “and they recall an era, and style of music that provides an escape into the golden age of entertainment.”
The cabaret features a variety of Porter’s hits; from his sweetest ballads to his liveliest toe-tappers and will feature colorful comedic commentary linking the songs.
Porter is an icon of American theatre and musical history whose songs defined the 1930s. He was also the creator of such beloved musicals as Anything Goes and Kiss Me, Kate.
“It’s the perfect blend of spice for your holiday hankering,” said Braithwaite.
The cast of the production includes many familiar faces to the Act II stage including Michael Indeglio (I Love You, You’re Perfect…Now Change” 2022), Zachary Chiero (Kiss Me Kate 2016), and Buyer and Cellar 2022) and Renee McFillin (Really Good Tidings 2021). Indeglio has performed on six continents and also hosts digital events and podcasts. Chiero has created three world premiere national tours with Enchantment Theatre Company, where he is currently the artistic director. He is also a proud member of the Tribe of Fools physical theater company, where he has received Barrymore nominations for best choreography for his work on Fly, Eagles Fly, and Fishtown: A Hipster Noir.
McFillin’s recent credits include Clue at the Bristol Riverside Theatre, and her next gig is One Man, Two Guvnors at the Delaware Theater Company.
Dan Matarazzo provides expert musical accompaniment and is the production’s Musical Director.
Cole For Your Stocking is directed by Dallas Padoven. Paul Dake is the Production Stage Manager, Parris Bradley is the Set Designer, Eric Baker is the Lighting Designer, Alex Dakaglou is the Sound Designer, and Alice Dake is the Scenic Painter.
The following is a brief chat with Zachary Chiero about what he loves about Cole For Your Stocking.
Zachary, what can audiences expect from this musical revue for the holidays? What makes this show so special?
In a word — fun! It’s hard not to feel the joy when singing Cole Porter’s music. This show is special because it gives all of us in the cast – Michael, Renee, Dan and myself – an opportunity to showcase some of the things we love to do the most. It’s a treat to be around such kind and talented people around the holidays.
What keeps you coming back to Act II Playhouse?
I love coming back to Act II because it feels like coming home. Everyone in this cast has worked here before, and we all feel the similar sense of camaraderie that Act II works hard to foster.
What else can you add about The Playhouse?
I have the privilege to be working with my husband [director Dallas Padoven] on this show as well, so there is a real sense of being a part of Act II’s extended family for the holidays.
Why do you think the music of Cole Porter has endured for so long?
Aside from his incredible wit and gorgeous melodies, Cole writes love songs like no other. The lyrics are layered and complex, but so identifiable and accessible, that you can’t help but sing along.
Is there anything you would like to add?
Cole Porter was writing during an era when show tunes would often cross over into popular music, so it makes sense that we are still listening to his iconic music almost 100 years after he wrote it.
The next production at the Act II Playhouse from January 31 to February 26 is Steel Magnolias.
For More Information:
Cole For Your Stocking runs through January 1, 2023. Ticket prices start at $32 and are available online at act2.org, by calling the Act II Box Office at 215-654-0200, or in person at the Box Office at 56 East Butler Ave., Ambler, PA.
The Box Office is open from Monday through Saturday from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. Student tickets are $15 and group discounts are available. Subscriptions are also available.