The cast includes Luther Creek (Charlie), Andrea McArdle (Hedda Hopper), Janet Metz (Hanna Chaplin), Garrett Long (Oona), Brooke Sunny Moriber (Edna Purviance), Sean Palmer (Sydney), Michael Farina (Karno and McGranery), Joel Hurt Jones (Sennett/Ens), Robert Langdon Lloyd (Older Charlie), Randy Blair (Ensemble), Scott Barnhardt (Ensemble), Rob Rokicki (Ensemble), Sarah Darling (Mildred Harris/Ensemble), Molly Curry (Joan Barry/Ensemble), Kristin Knutson (Ensemble), Danny Hallowell (Young Charlie) and Tommy Hallowell (Young Sydney).
Behind the Limelight received a workshop at New York Stage and Film in summer 2005. The musical explores the life and art of Charlie Chaplin, one of the world's most beloved performers, who had o ne of Hollywood's most turbulent careers. It examines how Chaplin’s upbringing affected his groundbreaking work behind and in front of the camera; and follows his rise from humble beginnings to o ne of the richest and most famous artists of his time. Following his forced exile due to Hollywood’s gossip mill and the House Un-American Activities Committee, Behind the Limelight shows how Chaplin, is able to realize the gifts in the hardship of his past which have allowed him to leave a better story to his children than the story that was left to him.
The creative team includes Christopher Curtis (composer lyricist), Michael Unger (director), Bryan Perri/Brian Cimmet (musical director), Jennifer Paulson Lee (choreographer), Dan Meeker (set designer), John Atherlay (stage manager), Joel E. Silver (lighting designer) and David Lawson (sound designer).
Andrea McArdle, beloved for playing Annie in 1977, recently played Sally Bowles at the Ogunquit Playhouse’s July production of Cabaret. McArdle's Broadway credits also include Beauty and the Beast, Les Misérables and State Fair.
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2006 New York Musical Theatre Festival website