NKU grad Denise Devlin wraps a run in “Grease” with Jersey Productions today (3 p.m. at the Carnegie), then tomorrow she starts rehearsals for the regional premiere of Stephen (“Wicked”) Schwartz’ new musical “Snapshots” at Human Race.

The “play with music” incorporates songs from past Schwartz hits,  including “Godspell,” “Pippin” and “Children of Eden.” “Snapshots” is “in development” which means Schwartz is coming in.When Devlin heard that, “I wanted to scream, but I wanted to be professional.”

And – gas up the car, musical fans – Schwartz will conduct a musical theater Master Class at the Human Race’ Loft Theatre (126 N. Main St.) from 3 to 5:30 p.m. Sept. 20. “Snapshots” opens that evening.

Schwartz will take questions from the audience and everyone who’d like to sing for the three-time Oscar winner can put their names in a hat for a chance to perform. Tickets $20, call Human Race exec director Kevin Moore at 937-461-3823, ext. 3115.

Back to Devlin, who will be singing for Schwartz. She reports, “it’s a six person show, and we play the same two people in different parts of their lives.” Devlin is the youngest of three female roles.

Human Race isn’t fooling around – four of the cast members are coming in from New York, including terrific CCM grad, and “Wicked” veteran, Kristy Cates. “When I heard that I wanted to scream, too,” Devlin laughed.

Devlin will know more Monday, but says she will sing “Popular” – “he’s changing some lyrics” – and “Lion Tamer” from “The Magic Show.” It’s beautiful.”

“Snapshots” will have a song dropped from “Wicked,” lyrics dropped from “Baker’s Wife” and new lyrics for songs from shows including “Rags.” (Yup, Schwartz is a prolific guy.)

“Snapshots” continues through Oct. 7. For tickets and more information – find Human Race in the theater index elsewhere at CinStages.com.

Jackie Demaline

posted by CinStages Buzz  # PermaLink 11:08 AM