The three-concert series kicks off April 4, 2005, with "Make Them Hear You!," an evening devoted to the works of Ahrens and Flaherty. Hosted by Tony-winning playwright Terrence McNally, the concert will offer an in-depth look at the works of the songwriting team, who will also be on hand. The duo's theatre scores include Ragtime, Once On This Island, My Favorite Year, A Man of No Importance and the animated film musical "Anastasia." "Sing for Your Supper" is the title of the May 2 program, which is subtitled "Ensembles in the Spotlight." Hosted by Forbidden Broadway creator Gerard Alessandrini, the concert will focus on Broadway's show-stopping trios, quartets and other ensembles. Audiences can expect to hear tunes from West Side Story, Les Misérables and Dear World.
The Broadway Close Up season will conclude with Bound for Broadway V, an evening of songs from and interviews with the writers of developing shows. Miss Saigon and Cats star Liz Callaway will be the concert's host.
Tickets for each concert are priced at $30, and a three-concert subscription is $70. Call (212) 501-3330 or visit www.kaufman-center.org. All concerts will be held at the Merkin Concert Hall, 129 West 67th Street.