Broadway's Next H!T Musical's Official Blog!

NEW Video~!

2012-01-25T23:29:00.001-05:00

Check out our new Promotional Video!

We hope to see you at the show~

Nominate Us!

2012-01-12T12:07:00.002-05:00

Hi BNHM Fans~!

The annual Improvisation News INNY Awards are coming up and we need YOUR help.

Nominate Broadway's Next H!T Musical for "Best in Musical Improv!"

Scroll down and you can also nominate our very own Robert Schiffmann for "Best Improv Coach" & "Best Improv Instructor."

Thank you for all of your support!

The Phony Goes To...

2012-01-10T12:44:00.002-05:00

Poor Frizelda, a teen witch with raven colored hair, is isolated in the woods of Winston Salem in 1692. Her mother protects her the best she can but everyone knows that mornings are for going to market and there Frizelda meets Reginald Walter the witch hunter. It's love at first sight. When he glimpses her pearly white fangs he's a besotted fool willing to do anything. He'll even turn on Mr. Salem the head witch hunter Frizelda's mother had an affair with 18 years prior. Witch-ever outcome, witch-ever way it goes, one thing is for sure--love can shine through the darkest of clouds as proven during DON'T RAIN ON MY LAPTOP from the show GET OUTTA HERE DEMON!

The (1/6) Winner Is...

2012-01-07T10:57:00.000-05:00

Beauty is in the eye of the beholder; but what happens when one of the beholders is blind? Michael is handsome perfection ... and he knows it. Beauty such as his is fragile, especially when you're surrounded by sprinkler systems full of acid. Something bad is bound to happen. It's Fosse meets THE MIRACLE WORKER meets BEAUTY AND THE BEAST. Meet narcissists galore and one special lady with a Minolta as Michael sings, TAKE MY PICTURE from the show MeEeEe!!!!!

New Year, New Shows

2011-12-29T10:07:00.003-05:00

Come out and catch the first shows of 2012 on January 6th & 7th at the Triad.

Tickets are $10 off through December 31st!

General Admission: $10

Premium Seating: $20

(+ two drink minimum, cash only)

January 6 @ 9PM

January 7 @ 7PM

The Triad

158 W. 72nd Street

When in Long Island...

2011-12-07T16:20:00.004-05:00

It was either fate or hunger that led us to the 5-acre Entenmann's Bakery/Factory in Long Island. Just a short ride from the highway and with 30 minutes before call time, we found ourselves running into this warehouse stocked with walls of cookies, cakes, cookies, donuts, cookies, coffee, and cookie scented candles.

If you ever pass through Bay Shore, NY don't forget to pick up some coffee cake.

30 Inez Dr.

Bay Shore, NY 11706

The Last Winning Song of 2012~~~

2011-12-05T14:48:00.002-05:00

Who says the American Space Program is on hiatus? A group of space explorers is out searching for a new planet to replace Pluto when Benjamin the Navigation Officer veers the vessel off-course by following Captain McCloskey's orders! Now it looks like they're lost in space! Thanks to his love for Miriam the space-hottie perhaps the Captain can find their way back home in time for Benjamin to be reunited with his wife Tabitha and the three puppies he has yet to meet. It could all boil down to Maddie the space pilot of questionable gender but she's got a case of the stupids ... and it's contagious! The whole thing is Out There, Far Out There, featuring the award winning song, "Steve Give Me a Sign!"

BNHM Heads to Brentwood this SATURDAY!

2011-12-02T11:28:00.003-05:00

Come see the cast of Broadway's Next H!T Musical this Saturday (12/3) at:

VAN NOSTRAND THEATER

at Suffolk County Community College

Crooked Hill Road

Brentwood, NY

12/3 @ 8PM

General Admission: $17

Runners Up 11/17

2011-11-20T17:44:00.003-05:00

"It's a Dog's Day" from Human No More

"Microwave Mama" from Area 51

"The Other White Black Meat" from Jungle of Fear

The Final NYC Phony Award of 2011 Goes To~~~

2011-11-20T11:22:00.005-05:00

An international team of astronauts is sent on a mission: To stop the sun from exploding. But when the spacecraft comes to a sudden halt, it is clear that a saboteur in the mix. Amanda and fellow male astronaut join forces when they realize they are both from Hackensack. And obviously "You can trust everyone in Jersey."

Will the sun explode? Will Amanda's potential for love be ruined by her friend's wife back on earth? See what happens in this out-of-this-world, out-of-this-species musical, A Voyage to the Sun featuring the song "I Left My Heart In Hackensack."

11/17 BNHM's Last NYC Show of 2011

2011-11-15T23:40:00.002-05:00

The cast of Broadway's Next H!T Musical is back in New York this Thursday @ 8PM, performing their last show of 2011 in the City.

Purchase ($20) tickets in advance and get a $5 credit toward show merchandise!

The Triad

158 W. 72nd St.

Tickets are available on SmartTix~!

On the Road Again~

2011-10-12T21:30:00.003-04:00

BNHM heads to Manchester, New Hampshire on October 14.

Come check out the cast the Dana Center at St. Anselm College this Friday at 7:30PM.

Anchorage, Take 3: 10/8

2011-10-11T13:17:00.003-04:00

Leaving Alaska with a Phony Award is the song "Dancer's Folly" from the musical Wear It Proudly.

Jean-Luc and Pierre-Phillipe both aspire to be the best dancer in the world but there’s only room for one at the top. Pierre-Phillipe will do anything it takes including manipulating Madame Philipetta to make Jean-Luc wear outlandish costumes. Who will waltz their way to super stardom? And what of poor cockney Jeanette who can barely twirl even though Pierre-Phillipe makes her heart leap? It’s all a "Dancer's Folly" from the show Wear It Proudly.

Runners-Up

"The Love Doc of the Jersey Shore" from the musical Head Full of Grease, Heart Full of Love

"Marsupials" from the musical Trouble in Da Jungle

"Unicorns Are for Wimps" from the musical At the End of the Rainbow

Anchorage, Take 2: 10/7

2011-10-10T10:30:00.002-04:00

Finally receiving the recognition it deserves, "On My Way To the Bathroom" from the musical Why I Aughta took home the Phony this Saturday.

In a world where almost everyone is named Johnny, there’s sure to be trouble on the way to the john. Johnny Two Lobes isn’t sure on which side of the law he wants to fall. Is he a criminal or a good guy? Are Johnny No-Nose and Johnny Tall-Tall devoted criminals, secret gay lovers or both? And is Antanella pushing pasta or laundering money for the mob? You’re sure to find out during "On My Way To The Bathroom" from the show Why I Aughta!

Runners-Up

"Gorgonzola Blueberry" from Sweet Bakery

"A Teenage Dream" from I'm Outta Here

"How Could Anyone" from Bicycle for Two

BNHM on 92.9 KFAT

2011-10-09T11:13:00.003-04:00

BNHM 's Deb Rabbai and Greg Triggs made a guest appearance on 92.9 KFAT

Deb&Greg with Mike, Sarah & Brad, hosts of "Morning Chaos"

on 92.9 KFAT~

Anchorage Voted...

2011-10-07T13:41:00.003-04:00

From the musical High School High, Nerd Fighters Take Over the Big Stage took home the Phony Award on October 6, 2011.

Sondra is the head cheerleader. Darnell is her smarter than he looks jock boyfriend. Mr. Oosik is the only staff member of High School High. He's the teacher of every class. He is the janitor. He is the principal who is not a pal. It's the nerds vs. the jocks as the school tries to mount the big musical. What no one knows is one girl, Sassy Clarissa is playing on both teams; but she may not know it either. Evidently she suffers from associative personality disorder ...

Which side will win? Find out as nerd fighters take over the big stage in High School High!

The Runners-Up:

Oosik Wrangler

Book Club, The Musical

You Can't Get There From Here

BNHM plays "The Last Frontier"

2011-10-05T21:49:00.003-04:00

BNHM packs it up and heads to Anchorage, Alaska this week. From October 6-8, they will be performing three shows at the Discovery Theater @ 7:30PM.

As a special treat, the cast of Broadway's Next H!T Musical will be offering improv classes on Saturday, October 8 for ages 14 and up. Ticket information is available HERE.

Beginners Class: 10:30AM-12:00PM (14+)

Advanced Class: 1:00PM-2:30PM (college age+)

We hope to see you there!

Virginia is For...

2011-09-24T13:10:00.004-04:00

Kitty lovers? That's right. And no where is that clearer than in the Phony Award Winning number, "Kitty Love" from the musical Gives Me Paws.

After losing his family (and everyone he ever knew) in a tragic accident, Darnall falls in love with trash talking, cigarette smoking, knighted cat from Britain that he adopts from the ASPCA. His infatuation with this feline turns Darnall into a social misfit. When his living conditions decline, the cat is eventually taken away from him. But even after assimilating into society and having a human relationship, Darnall continues to long for his four-legged family.

Are you going to be in South Boston, VA this weekend?

2011-09-19T22:42:00.003-04:00

Probably not, but you'll wish you were. The cast of Broadway's Next Hit Musical is jumping in the tour bus (the M60 that is) and heading out to their first stop:

The Prizery

700 Bruce Street

South Boston, VA

7:30PM

This Saturday...

2011-08-09T22:48:00.002-04:00

Broadway's Next H!T Musical will be performing in a 30-minute spot the Del Close Marathon. If you need your fix of BNHM, you can catch them at 11:30AM @ the hudson guild (444 w. 26th st.)

Tony's Week Phony Winner is...

2011-06-20T23:03:00.003-04:00

"Nascar Race is the Place to Be," but as the cars zip through Nascarnia each year, they bring a wind that destroys the whole town. Finally fed up with the annual rebuild, citizens of Nascarnia decide to overthrow Nascar Renee, the racer of all racers. Is Nascarnia rid forever of the race or does Nascar Renee huff and puff and blow the town down? Find out in Windfall, featuring the hit song, "Nascar Race is he Place to Be."

They're back...

2011-06-08T16:09:00.002-04:00

The cast is back in action tomorrow, June 9 at 8PM at the Triad (158 W. 72nd Street).

www.smarttix.com

SHOW: JUNE 9, 2011

2011-05-31T22:43:00.002-04:00

It's back.......But only June 9th! So come out to the Triad at 8PM and catch the cast of Broadway's Next H!T Musical put on a show fit for a Phony. Check out our website for ticket information!

Triad Theater

158 W. 72nd Street

2011-05-09T12:39:00.001-04:00

BNHM H!Ts TriBeCa~

2011-05-01T22:22:00.003-04:00

The cast of Broadway's Next H!T Musical made a cameo at the Family Festival Street Fair at the Tribeca Film Festival on Saturday.

The nominated songs were....

The Lion That Ate the Tiger

I Ate 10 Pounds of Annie's Pasta

Come check out the show June 9 at 8PM at the Triad!

Winner: 4/21

2011-04-28T22:18:00.003-04:00

From the happy car to the only shaky corner of the train, there is no stopping this Train To Nowhere, featuring the song "Your Rippling Bronze Muscles." When a socialist train conductor from the early part of the century is ever so slightly pushed over the edge by the upper class on board, he decides to derail their privileged lives by cutting the breaks of the train. Will the train ever stop? Will an affair survive the trip? Will two people rush into marriage despite a spouse's sudden death?

CONGRATS Rob Schiffmann~

2011-04-26T10:20:00.003-04:00

Congratulations to BNHM's Rob Schiffmann for winning and INNY for Best Improv Coach.

Red Carpet: April 9, 2011

2011-04-20T00:13:00.002-04:00

BNHM Host Greg Triggs follows the Red Carpet to the Triad Theater during the only matinee show this run, Greg comes across a fashionably religious youth group trecking down the carpet. That proves it. God loves improv. And so will you. Come join us next time on the BNHM Red Carpet~

Runners Up 4/14

2011-04-18T23:09:00.001-04:00

"Does Your Butt Like My Butt Like My Butt Likes Yours?" From the Show BUTT OF COURSE

"How the Wind Blows" From the Show, THE CLIMATE IS CHANGING ... AND SO AM I!

"The Stars Shined on My Sex" From the show, DEHYDRATION

And The Winner Is...(4/14)

2011-04-17T21:26:00.002-04:00

It's Nineteen Hundred and Forty-Four. The country is at war and so is one couple livin' together in a cold water flat. Paul, gettin' ready to ship out says dames got no place on the battlefield. His gal, so oppressed that she doesn't even have a name, disagrees and will do anything to prove her point ... even if it means signin' up for duty on Paul's submarine and posin' as a man! She becomes Major Parkinsons and does her best to make sure it's not one man's navy anymore! Does she succeed? Does Paul go down ... with the ship? Find out in Sunken Dreams featuring the hit song, "FLEET WEEKS A COMIN' MAJOR!"

Benefit for JAPAN! ~THIS THURSDAY~

2011-04-12T13:38:00.005-04:00

Come to the Triad this Thursday APRIL 14 and $5 of your ticket will be donated to the JETAA USA Japan Earthquake Relief Fund. We will also have a donation box.

Please come help us support the earthquake relief efforts in Japan!

JETAA New York (JET Alumni Association) is the alumni organization for participants of the JET Programme in Japan. The local New York chapter continues to celebrate and share Japan and Japanese culture in the city.

Runners Up 4/09/11

2011-04-11T23:23:00.003-04:00

A young English immigrant is the catalyst for change at the candy shop of the rich and wealthy of Missouri when he bites into "Felt Tipped Pretzel Rods" from the show Fancy Treats.

See What Develops when the only film developer in all of Italy and the world, breaks his code of ethics and looks at some photos. You will leave wanting "Lotions and Potions that Make You Chafe."

On the docks of Louisiana, sexual harassment is all the rage, but these guys are just Bluffin', when they sing "I'd Hit That."

REVIEW: City Guide

2011-04-11T23:10:00.001-04:00

Check out what City Guide had to say about BNHM!

http://cityguideny.com/viewcolumn.cfm?colid=45432

Drum Roll Please...

2011-04-10T17:01:00.003-04:00

A social commentary of the triumphs and tribulations of obesity in the US, Super Duper Loser follows high school student Millicent from Over-eaters Anonymous to center stage, where she overcomes her size and sound. In "I Really Want to be on Broadway, But I'm Too Fat and I Can't Sing," Millicent shares her dreams with her fellow over-eaters. Is bigger really better? Will there be a Schin 2? Find out only at Broadway's Next H!T Musical...

SONG CLIP: I Squeezed My Love Like a Bagpipe (3/17/2011)

2011-04-07T22:31:00.001-04:00

Runnnning UP 3/31

2011-04-05T00:46:00.002-04:00

"My Little Red Babbette" from the French infused musical, Postal Arrest

"Why Am I Marooned on the Forrest Moon of Endor" from Out There: A Space Musical

"Chinese Soup" from The Little Delivery Boy

Winning this week...

2011-04-02T12:12:00.003-04:00

Spanning 80 years in 30 minutes, a musical that will send you home with more neurosis than you came in with, The Neurotics featuring the hit song "Is There Anything Wrong?" took home this week's Phony Award!

Susie Mosher comes to BNHM

2011-03-30T19:32:00.003-04:00

Come see star of the stage and screen, Susie Mosher, as she shares the stage with Broadway's Next H!T Musical this week only!

Don't forget to VOTE for BNHM, Rob Schiffmann & Ralph Buckley by March 31!

BNHM making a SPLASH

2011-03-27T21:06:00.005-04:00

This Monday, the cast of Broadway's Next H!T Musical will make a special one-act performance at SPLASH BAR's "Curtain Call." Stop by Monday night for this special engagement.

WHERE: SPLASH BAR

50 W. 17th Street

WHEN: Monday, March 28 starting at 11:30PM

Don't forget to VOTE for BNHM, Rob Schiffmann & Ralph Buckley by March 31!

Runners Up 3/24

2011-03-26T12:39:00.003-04:00

"Poop & Politics" from the musical You Gotta Play Dirty to Win

"I Just Had A Social Collision" from the musical Lost At Sea

"Making Love on the Sofa" from the musical Couch Time

SONG CLIP: Lindsay Lohan and Winona Ryder Went Shopping (2/10)

2011-03-25T20:29:00.002-04:00

You read the headlines. You saw the news. But did you HEAR the song? From mermaids to mean girls, these ladies brought a lesson to the off (off) Broadway stage...

Starring:

Rob Schiffman

Stefan Schick

Rebecca Vigil

Deb Rabbai

Piano:

Eric March

The Audience Voted...

2011-03-25T11:51:00.006-04:00

Called a "trannys-formational" musical, The Solution Cuts Both Ways brought home the Phony award this week. This tale follows a secret passion that inspires a once beef-of-a-man to live out a normal life as a tranny, Robin. Her free spirit and passion touches her closest friends. But when the two sons of Robin's lady friend plan to overthrow their mother's lifestyle in "Throw Mamma From the Tranny," you wonder if the whole cast will make it through alive...

This show is best enjoyed with Gatorade or vodka (straight, of course).

Don't forget to VOTE for BNHM, Rob Schiffmann and Ralph Buckley by March 31.

Valerie Smaldone THIS WEEK with BNHM

2011-03-23T17:36:00.004-04:00

Join the cast of BNHM this week with a special guest appearance by award-winning radio personality, Valerie Smaldone. You know what she sounds like. So come out put the voice to a face!

And...

Don't forget to VOTE for BNHM, Rob Schiffmann & our Producer Ralph Buckley by March 31st~

SPOTLIGHT BIO: Kobi Libii

2011-03-22T13:03:00.007-04:00

Broadway's Next H!T Musical would like to spotlight Kobi Libii, our "cartoonishly" funny guy!

What is your favorite part of the show?

Sweating in a tuxedo. Somehow it's classier than sweating elsewhere.

Who or what inspired you to do improv?

I just followed my dreams and my pathological need for approval.

How long have you been singing/improvising?

Improvising since high school, singing since church choir at age, I dunno, 5?

I don't think this is what my church choirmaster had in mind when teaching

me to harmonize.

What has been your favorite improvisational journey/character that you have played?

For some reason I love playing cartoonishly masculine assholes--think Gaston in Beauty and the Beastor that guy who picked on you in high school. I once improvised a character like this who was named Don Johnson. I loved playing that guy.

When you aren't found at the Phony Awards, where might you be out in the city?

Sweating through something less classy than a tuxedo.

How do you keep it all together when you are up on stage doing your thing?

I think of something sad, like the audience not approving of me.

What was your first gig in musical improv?

My college improv group, Just Add Water at Yale.

How did you become a part of BNHM?

I knew some of the people involved in BNHM from a different improv theater we all work at (Chicago City Limits). They invited me to come play around with the group, sort of an informal get-to-know-you/try-out. We all hit it off and the rest is history...in as much as it

happened in the past.

What is it like for you to take the stage here in NYC?

Sweaty

Mini-bio

Everything about me is chronicled in my memoir, Kobi Libii: Please Approve of My Life Choices

Runners Up 3/17

2011-03-22T12:53:00.003-04:00

Rocking out with the 3rd Trimester stomp, Deb Rabbai brought to life "Lamaze Glass Blues" from the musical Maternity Ward.

"Baby Baby Can't You Hear My Heart Beat" is the song that will launch the success of a young pop star hero against all odds, including his over-bearing mother, from the show I'm Quite Young to be a Pop Star.

Ripped from the history of medieval times, Last Chance Dance follows a pauper and a princess as they unite over their unfortunate malady, "Morning Pimples."

The St. Patrick's Day Phony Goes To~

2011-03-18T23:11:00.004-04:00

"I Squeezed My Love Like a Bagpipe" from the musical, The Great Regret, is the story about "a Scottish man's irrational enthusiasm for St. Patrick's day." The show takes the audience on a journey from Scotland to the US as a man tries to escape a mistake that continues to haunt him. Will he find refuge in the new world or will he find that his avengers and night terrors came after him?

Come see BNHM Thursdays at 9PM to see more musicals come to life!

Red Carpet with Jeff Rogers (2/24)

2011-03-17T12:02:00.001-04:00

Take a trip from the red carpet to the mezzanine with guest host, Jeff Rogers~

SPOTLIGHT BIO: Greg Triggs

2011-03-16T15:28:00.003-04:00

He's performed his way around the world. He's improvised his way up the east coast. He's the guy keeps Broadway's Next H!T Musical a flowing mess of comedy.

And here's your host, Greg Triggs!

As the host, you bring a mixture of stand up and improv to the show. What do you look forward to at each performance?

Improv groups get stale when the members stop surprising each other. I cannot imagine that happening with this cast. There's always something to look forward to ... the stand up, the scene work, the music, the audience. There's always something fun going on.

How long have you been singing/improvising?
Since before the Internet.

I first started improvising in college and the minute I did I stopped thinking about any other kind of performance. I knew I was an improviser. Singing is trickier ... to me it has always been a means to an end. That I've been paid over the years to sing kind of cracks me up. How did that happen?

How did you become a part of BNHM?
I was originally brought in as an understudy. I had one rehearsal ... that was kind of casual and low-key. Then, because comics are always so stable everything fell apart. A cast member was going through some hard times, left the show and I was on. I've been the host ever since.

When you aren't found at the Phony Awards, where might you be out in the city?
Out of town probably. I travel a lot for work. In the last six months I've been to Doha, Hawaii, Germany, Amsterdam, the Canary Islands, the Bahamas, Florida, Tortolla, St. Maarten and Jersey.

My boyfriend and I live in Harlem so when I'm in town we really enjoy exploring the neighborhood. We're close to our neighbors so we'll either be on the roof with them
checking out new restaurants ... or sitting on the couch watching bad television. We're non-threatening middle class homos.

What sets this show apart from any other improvised show you have been a part of?
Our show is an amazing blend of stand-up, short form and long form improv. I've never been in a show that funnels everything into one collective point of view

so well. It's got the award/celebrity/parody aspects, which is really fun to play with. The music is incredible and always changing. Everyone once in a while I pinch myself. When I was a kid in WI I dreamed of doing a show in New York City and here I am working with the best improvisers in Manhattan. Incredible.

What is your most memorable moment in improv?

When I first started improvising I lived in Minneapolis I was poorer than poor. I would have qualified for food stamps but I couldn't afford the bus fare to apply. Of course my car broke down. When it did I pulled into a service station on Hennepin Avenue. The mechanic came over and said, "I am suddenly aware of every atom in my body." I didn't get it so I started explaining what was wrong with the car. He repeated himself. "I am suddenly aware of every atom in my body." I stared at him blankly. He said, "You don't remember saying that? My wife and I saw you in a show last week. You said, "I am aware of every atom in my body. We thought it was hilarious. We've been saying it to each other ever since." He fixed my car for free, which was awesome ... but the real gift was discovering that you never know how your work is going to affect an audience ... that sometimes when you're hitting hard people remember what you do.

What was your first gig in musical improv?
Dudley Riggs Brave New Workshop in Minneapolis, MN. Best training ever. I am still friends with the people in my improv class. We're doing a reunion show in the Twin Cities Improv Festival this summer. The Brave New Workshop was the first improv group I ever saw and I KNEW I would work with them someday. I did. Disney saw me in a show. Offered me a job. Luckiest break ever. It took me from Minneapolis to the Next Big Broadway Musical!

Could BNHM really entertain you 15% or more of your evening on St. Patrick's Day?

2011-03-16T11:57:00.008-04:00

Is Michael McGlone singing Danny Boy with us on March 17?

YES. That's right, the Geico Guy will be our Special Guest Star this Thursday at the Triad. So after you have had your fill of green beer, come to the Upper West Side to continue the buzz.

If you don't get tickets, you will spend this St. Patty's day green with envy.

The Triad Theater

158 W. 72nd Street

---Don't forget to VOTE for BNHM and Rob Schiffmann by March 31st!---

Running Up on 3/14

2011-03-16T11:38:00.003-04:00

When meat goes awry at a meat packing plant, it's no wonder you might say "I Have the Worst Diarrhea" from the musical E-Coli?---

Ninja, a controversial musical about the first female ninja, follows Kotonamo in "Poof," as she learns how to be the best of her kind-by disappearing.

After years living on an island with no one but her husband, Marjorie sends out bottle after bottle of SOS love messages, only to be surprised when her knight in shining armor arrives singing, "You're My Little Poop Machine" from the musical, Island Romance.

BNHM would like to thank the National Scatology Society for their contributions to tonight's show.

BNHM is on the "Edge"

2011-03-16T11:32:00.001-04:00

Edge New York posted up a great review about us. Check it out.

This Musical is WINNING

2011-03-15T16:49:00.005-04:00

Ripped from the optically enhanced masterpiece, Eye-Magination, "How We Spell Cataract" took home the Phony award this week. "Focused on the eye," this musical follows a professor at an opthalmology university as he teaches students to see better by taking away their vision. A show you must see to believe.

Vote For US!

2011-03-15T15:52:00.002-04:00

Voting closes on March 31st and we need your help. Vote for Broadway's Next H!T Musical and our very own Rob Shiffmann for the 2011 INNY Awards.

Thank you for your support!

Red Carpet: March 3, 2011

2011-03-12T21:00:00.005-05:00

From Calvin Klein to Idunno, the glitterati sported their best at Broadway's Next Hit Musical this week. Catch the hottest red carpet event north of the LWS!

Host: Greg Triggs

Pianist: Gary Adler

Julie Halston + Gary Adler =

2011-03-11T16:02:00.004-05:00

One Spectacular Night!

Start the week off on the right foot and join us on the Upper West Side as co-host Julie Halston and musical genius Gary Adler jump on the Triad stage with the cast of BNHM.

Tickets are $20 with a 2 drink minimum. They can be purchased HERE!

SPECIAL BNHM ENGAGEMENT: Julie Halston (3/14)

2011-03-11T15:36:00.006-05:00

You know her as Bitsy von Muffling from Sex and the City. You couldn't get enough of her in Gypsy & Hairspray. You are hoping to see her up close and personal. Well now you can! New York stage and TV star Julie Halston will be co-hosting THIS MONDAY, March 14 at 9PM at the Triad.

Get your tickets now at SmartTix!

Don't forget to vote for Broadway's Next H!T Musical for the 2011 INNY Awards!

COMING ATTRACTIONS:

The Geico Guy, Michael McGlone, joins BNHM to ring in an improv-tastic St. Patty's day this Thursday at the Triad. Stay tuned for more details!

SPOTLIGHT BIO: Rebecca Vigil

2011-03-10T22:35:00.004-05:00

This week BNHM wants to introduce you to our California girl, Rebecca Vigil.

What is your favorite part of the show?

My favorite part of the show is watching Greg Triggs host. Greg makes hosting a show as intricate as Broadway's Next Hit Musical so seamless, clever, sophisticated and hilarious. He is what makes Broadway's Next Hit Musical the complete package, in my opinion. I also love attempting to improvise complex harmonies in our songs. My fellow improvisers have such talented ears, they make it so easy to create something musically unique and complex right there on the spot.

Who or what inspired you to do improv?

In eighth grade, a group of professional improvisers from a group called Comedy Sportz came to teach my "Drama class" an improv workshop. Thirty minutes into that workshop I knew improv and I were going to be together for a very long time. But I had no idea how. That summer, I moved away and started my first year of high school on the opposite side of the country. I was bumbling through the halls one day and I noticed the Comedy Sportz logo posted on the wall. It was a flier advertising auditions for the Comedy Sportz High School League. I was terrified. I knew nothing more about improv than what I had learned for 45 minutes nearly a year ago. But I auditioned and I got cast. Needless to say, improv and I have been in each other's lives nearly every day ever since.

Which came first the singing or the improv?

I have been singing for as long as I can remember. I was that kid who put on shows at the adult parties. (That sounds awful.) I was the kid that would wear a towel dress and a shower cap while lip syncing and "dancing" to the Dirty Dancing soundtrack. (That also sounds awful.) I mean, singing has just always been inside of me. But I didn't start to sing in front of people, purposely, until I was in high school, which pretty much means I started my singing and improvising journeys at the same time. I suppose that is why musical improv, above all the forms and formats I have practiced, remains far and beyond my favorite form of improv.

When you aren't found at the Phony Awards, where might you be out in the city?

It sounds so lame and actor-y but I am probably attending or performing in another show. (If I say it sounds lame and actor-y before you can think it, I am still cool right?) And when I am not dedicating my life to the craft, I walk among the common folk, tasting their wares. And drinking wine.

How do you keep it all together when you are up on stage doing your thing?

I think my secret weapon is trust. I have to trust that my fellow cast members "have my back." I have to believe that we are all making decisions for the good of the show. I have to trust myself and my instincts. In improv, there is simply no time to second-guess any of these decisions. You just have to jump and trust that something will catch you.

What is your most memorable moment in improv?

It would have to be improvising for 300 New Zealanders (or "Kiwis." Though, if I had just said "for 300 kiwis," that would have been infinitely more memorable.) on their home turf. I had been having the most amazing vacation traveling around Australia only to get to fly to New Zealand to do a show with the funniest people I know for 300 hysterically laughing strangers. And all we had to do was make fun of Americans.

What was your first gig in musical improv?

My friend and I loved improvising songs together. In rehearsing with one another, we developed a two person improvised musical format recreating the love story of a couple from the audience. As we were perfecting this format we noticed there were a lot of people in our social circle getting married. So we decided to capitalize on all that happiness and start a business; Your Musical. We were hired for weddings, bachelorette parties, and anniversary celebrations all over Los Angeles to improvise a 30 minute musical recreating how the couple met and how they ultimately fell for one another. We never did seem to book a bachelor party though. Shoulda' showed more boob.

How did you become a part of BNHM?

Musical improv and I were inseparable for many years in Los Angeles but when I moved to New York, getting settled, making friends, and performing anything anywhere sort of pushed musical improv to the side. Finally, I decided to take an eight-week musical improv workshop from a guest instructor I had met recently at my theatre group. This eight week class turned out to be one of the best, most enlightening and extensive musical improv workshops I had taken and it was taught by my, now, fellow cast member Rob Schiffmann. After the eight weeks were over, Rob asked me to audition for Broadway's Next Hit Musical. I was honored. And HIRED! BOOM!

What is it like for you to take the stage here in NYC?

Every time I am on stage in New York City I am realizing a dream I have had ever since I was a little girl. I moved to New York City from 3,000 miles away, knowing no one, having no family, and with only three giant duffle bags carrying my previous life. Now I perform weekly with some of the most talented performers on the scene in the city of my dreams. It is pretty ridiculous how cool that is.

Almost Winners from 3/3

2011-03-05T16:54:00.003-05:00

This guy was in your high school class. He monitored your dorm in college. He sits across from you at the office. He is the "Random Tool" from the musical Dork Day In The Sun

For those of you who didn't hear it in the news, "Charlie Sheen is Winning" from My Porn House, Your Porn House

If you've ever worked hard and got nothing in return, you will fall in love with the musical You Came A Long Way For Nothing, featuring the song "Go Home"

BNHM Presents the Winner from 3/3...

2011-03-04T18:11:00.003-05:00

The war between the apartment holders of the Dakota buildings in Central Park West seems to take a surprising turn in "Unite the Dakotas" from the hit musical Central Park West Needs a Facelift.

Come See "The Best Improv Comedy In New York City"

2011-03-03T13:21:00.003-05:00

Here is a collection of a reviews popping up around the city.

"Improv At Its Best"
-Women Around Town

"The Best Improv Comedy in New York City"
-Review Fix

"Marvelous Shenanigans"
-Queer New York

"A huge hit"
-Improvisation News

"Becoming staple in the New York City entertainment scene"
-Associated Content

We Put the "B" in BEST HIT MUSICAL!

2011-03-02T14:31:00.003-05:00

Check out a review by Patrick Hickey Jr. from Review Fix.

And then you better come see the SHOW!!!

SPOTLIGHT BIO: Eric March

2011-03-01T21:50:00.004-05:00

BNHM would like to introduce Eric March, our master mind on the piano. Having the fastest growing hair of any cast member, Eric shares his experience doing improv on 88 keys.

Please post your thoughts to Eric!

How did you get into piano improvisation?

I was friends with a lot of improvisers in college. After I graduated and moved to the city, one of them asked me to audition for the musical improv show he was producing -- Chicago City Limits. I had never done any musical improv before, and having seen the CCL show once in high school, knew I definitely couldn't do it as well as they could, so I kept putting him off and hoping he'd forget about it. Eventually I ran out of excuses and decided to get it over with. I've been playing for their touring company ever since.

Who is your musical inspiration?

I was obsessed with Billy Joel as a kid. I have a dog-eared, falling-apart copy of the two-volume Billy Joel Complete sitting in a cabinet at my parents' house that was my best friend for many years of torturous classical piano lessons. Nowadays I listen to a lot of white guys with twangy guitars and old timey musical theater.

What was your first gig in musical improv?

Chicago City Limits was not only my first musical improv gig, but my first professional music gig in general (aside from a few weddings and bar mitzvahs I played in high school and college). My first show with the group was a tour show in Omaha, Nebraska, which was absolutely terrifying. But I was amazed by the craft services. They made me feel like a total rock star. I remember calling my girlfriend at the time and saying, "Holy sh*t! Did you know they give us chicken??? For free? In sauce???"

How do you create an entire song along with the cast trying to do the same thing at the same time?

Amphetamines. If you don't have a good connection, it helps to listen really well and know a lot about song structure.

How many "scores" would you say you have written on the spot?

Hm. Hard to say. 100, maybe? 3 years, 35 shows a year sounds about right.

What is the most memorable moment for you on stage in this type of setting?

Sheesh. My memory for this stuff is really terrible. My girlfriend stage manages the Chicago City Limits show and has an incredible mental index of all of the bits we've ever done, so I should probably ask her and get back to you. Off hand, I'd have to say performing for 30 members of my family early on in my time with CCL. They were the whole audience, and they were super enthusiastic about everything I did, which really helped build my confidence at a time when I wasn't so sure about my abilities yet. Offstage, I would have to say breaking into a spontaneous rendition of "Wheels of a Dream" with Kobi before a show in St. Cloud, Minnesota, and all of the other hundred million things like that that happen when you

hang out with improvisers.

What is the strangest song you have played for musical improv?

I don't remember any particularly strange ones. I once did a song with Rob and a few others at CCL called the "Song of the Missing People." It was part of a musical about a group of kids who drove into New York to go out for the night, got their car stolen, wound up in a police station somehow staring at a wall full of pictures of missing persons, before their friends came to get them. When the lights came up on the third scene, Rob said, "And now, the Song of the Missing People." I had forgotten the part of the story where they looked at the people on the wall, and thought he was out of his mind. I literally played the whole song without having a clue what was going on, and it wasn't until a few minutes later that I figured out what had just happened. I'm sure that's happened many more times than I can recall, but that's the one that sticks out. I forget things sometimes even as they are happening right in front of me.

How long did it take for you to grow that incredible J-Fro?

12-and-a-half minutes.

When you aren't found at the Phony Awards, where might you be out in the city?

Hopefully at City Sub in Park Slope. That place is awesome. Go there and you'll never be able to eat a sandwich again without experiencing at least a little bit of regret.

02/24 Runners UP!

2011-03-01T21:41:00.003-05:00

A love story that will make you sick, "If Love Is A Disease, You Are my IV Drip" from the musical Medical Miracle

You are never to old to love "Shave My Beard and Rub My Toes," a geriatric extravaganza from Gentle Into That Good Night

From bro-mance to frienemies, the memories unfold in "Babbitt and Bubba Remember When" from the unforgettable musical, Neck of Red

EXTRA EXTRA

2011-03-01T15:20:00.003-05:00

Queer New York has written a review about BNHM!

Check it out HERE!

A Visit From Jeff Rogers

2011-02-25T18:32:00.004-05:00

This week Broadway's Next H!T Musical was joined by guest host, Jeff Rogers.

Comedian, corporate entertainter, and actor, Jeff has been found at Chicago's Second City, in McDonalds (commercial), and on the silver screen. He is a Wisconsin native (yes, we only work with hosts from the cheese state), and he is currently based out of Chicago.

To learn more about Jeff, be sure to check out his website.

And don't forget to get your tickets for next week's show before they are sold out!

Not Just INNY-Body Gets Nominated~

2011-02-25T18:19:00.004-05:00

Broadway's Next H!T Musical has been nominated for an INNY Award for "Best Musical Improv." In 2009 Improvisation News did a review about the show which you can check out HERE!

And it doesn't stop there. BNHM's Rob Schiffmann was nominated for "Best Improv Coach."

Voting is a big part of our show and we are asking you to VOTE Rob and Broadway's Next H!T Musical at Improvisation News.

This Week's Phony Goes To...

2011-02-25T18:07:00.007-05:00

A multi-lingual journey to the French Alps, Climb, You Bastards featuring the hit song "T2 (2 Tempo)" walked away with the highest honor at the Phony Awards.

BNHM in TONY

2011-02-23T16:07:00.005-05:00

Time Out New York gives BNHM a shout out in the MUSIC Events listings.

"[Improv is] an old game, but somehow this gang makes it seem fresh."

Come join the gang every week from now until April 21 at the Triad Theater on the Upper West Side.

High Profilin' at the Triad~

2011-02-23T15:15:00.003-05:00

This week a few celebrities found their way into the audience of Broadway's Next H!T Musical including Michael McGlone from "The Brothers McMullen" & Geico Commercials, and all the way from L.A. Peter Vogt arrived ripped right off the set of a Gary Marshal film.

Greg: You would recognize him from “Princess Diaries 2” and the grumpy neighbor of “Hannah Montana.” How about a hand for Mister Peter Vogt…the man who single handedly ruined Billy Ray Cyrus’ family.

YELP about BNHM

2011-02-22T20:15:00.004-05:00

If you've seen the show, come YELP us out and post up a review:

http://www.yelp.com/biz/broadways-next-hit-musical-manhattan

Red Carpet PREMIERE!

2011-02-22T18:40:00.009-05:00

Follow host Greg Triggs down the Red Carpet opening night of Broadway's Next H!T Musical at the Triad Theater. From Old Navy to Ralph Lauren, the glitterati put on their best to attend the hottest awards show on the Upper West Side. Come walk our Red Carpet this spring at the Triad and YOU just may end up here!

SPOTLIGHT BIO: Robert Z. Grant

2011-02-21T15:22:00.003-05:00

This week we introduce Robert Z. Grant, the tallest member of BNHM! Our resident design guy, Robert is responsible for creating our amazing show posters each week. Take a look at the gallery and check back after each show for the next hit poster!

If you have any questions for RZG, feel free to post them up!

Who or what inspired you to do improv?

My former boss at a design agency used to listen to me and my coworker riff off one another all day long. She was taking an improv class and suggested that I check it out. It was an instant fit for me, and I have been learning, teaching and performing improv ever since.

What was your first gig in musical improv?

I formed a troupe with some fellow improvisers, which we named Codependent Theater Company (aka CodeCo). We were hired to go to Iowa where my brother and one of my high school classmates owned a bar and performance venue called the Vaudeville Mews. We played 4 shows that first weekend. We were invited back 3 more times. We STILL talk about those shows.

How do you keep it all together when you are up on stage doing your thing?

I regularly fight with myself about the idea of 'keeping it together.' I try to be in a place where I am not blocking or stifling my impulses. The danger of 'losing it' at any moment is part of the thrill for me.

Where do you get your ideas for show posters?
The BNHM gallery of show posters is unique-- no other improv company documents their shows this way. I started creating the posters as a labor of love when I first joined the show in 2005. And now we can all look back and remember some of the brilliant shows we've been a part of, audience and performers alike. The ideas for the posters usually come from some simple place, phrase or object that happened in the particular show. Obviously, song titles and show titles play a big part. I try to find a simple, visual way to evoke the story of that musical. Sometimes the inspiration doesn't come right away, but once I lock into an idea, I get kind of obsessed until the poster's finished.

Is there any connection between your design gig and doing improv?
Both require imagination, good observational skills, good listening, plus the ability to find inspiration in the smallest moment and build on it to create something you could not possibly have anticipated.

What is the strangest suggestion you have gotten?

No strange suggestion comes to mind...a good imagination can usually put even the oddest things into some context. The suggestions that throw me are not strange, but lewd. People sometimes write suggestions that they think will make an improviser uncomfortable. When I have a song title in our show that is profane, for instance, I feel a lot of pressure to elevate it while still staying true to the title. Problem is: suggestions like that only have momentary shock value-- it's a one-note joke. No one really wants to hear a song called "F*ck me harder, Mommy!" (At least, I don't want to meet that person... and I don't want to sing that song. I have rejected two song titles in my improvising history, and that was one of them.)

What is your most memorable improv moment?

The question I like to ask fellow improvisers after their shows is whether they did something in the show that surprised them. Anytime I surprise myself is a memorable improv moment for me. I can still remember the chorus of the first improvised song I ever sang... I surprised myself that I had the ability to create music that way.

When you aren't found at the Phony Awards, where might you be out in the city?

After living in NYC for more than 23 years, I regularly lament that there are no more "undiscovered" places to enjoy. Just last night, I found a hidden gem... you can find me there. ;)

What question have you never been asked, but have always wanted to answer?

"How did it feel tonight to make your Broadway debut?"

This Week's Runners-UP~

2011-02-20T18:10:00.002-05:00

"Moo Moo Moo," straight from the exotic barn of the musical, Moosical.

"Kiss Me Now & Then," a loving serenade by the time traveler in, The Time Traveler's Mistress.

"Accountants Give Great Returns," a father-daughter duet from that Broadway hit, Liberal Arts Major.

Tonight's Phony Goes To~

2011-02-18T09:50:00.006-05:00

This week, the winning title of Broadway's Next H!T Musical took us on a trip to Intercourse, PA with the song "Girl Fight With Disco Dust," from the musical: The Amish Land!

Gary Adler joins BNHM TONIGHT!

2011-02-17T18:27:00.004-05:00

From Avenue Q to W. 72nd Street, pianist Gary Adler guest stars on the keys tonight at Broadway's Next H!T Musical.

www.broadwaysnexthitmusical.com

TODAY: LIVE with Greg Triggs on BLOG TALK RADIO

2011-02-17T11:20:00.003-05:00

Don't forget to catch BLOG TALK RADIO: Musical Theater Talk at 3PM for a live conversation with BNHM's host, Greg Triggs!

Use the "chat room" or call 347-237-5224 to submit questions!

Scene from 2/10

2011-02-16T12:51:00.001-05:00

Just elected school President, Priscilla (Deb Rabbai) has to choose who her VP will
be…

Priscilla: Gosh, I don’t know who it should be.
Tevin (Stefan Schick): You probably don’t want someone with a sordid past like
mine, with all the shoplifting and coke and cyborg mother.
Mr. Bingetois (Rob Schiffmann): You know, back in the year 2000 they elected
someone president who was just like that.

Musical Excerpt

2011-02-16T11:08:00.002-05:00

Straight from the improvised Lyrics of 2/10's winning song title WINONA RYDER AND LINDSAY LOHAN WENT SHOPPING~

Back in the day, so many years ago
There was a girl who liked to steal things
And another one who did blow.
But the law came in
And those things the law was stopping
On the day that Winona Ryder and Lindsay Lohan
Went Shopping.
-Rob Schiffmann

SPOTLIGHT BIO: Deb Rabbai

2011-02-15T14:46:00.003-05:00

Welcome to this week’s SPOTLIGHT BIO on BNHM original cast member, Deb Rabbai. You can follow her on her personal BLOG!

If you have questions for DEB feel free to post one in COMMENTS.

Who or what inspired you to do improv?

When I was 16 years old (just two short years ago... OK, maybe it was a bit longer ago than that) my high school acting class went to an improv show at a place on the upper east side called "Chicago City Limits". This was before Whose Line Is It Anyway was on TV. Anyway, I saw their improv show and I was blown away. Immediately I was hooked. The cast was so talented, funny, clever, interesting and exciting. I wanted to be as smart, funny and clever as they were so I created an internship for myself with them and took classes there for three years. I joined any improv group that would have me so I could get more and more experience. But Carol Schindler who was in the cast and one of my improv teachers was a great inspiration to me.

Which came first the singing or the improv?

Well, believe it or not they both started when I was 16 years old. I wanted to be in a band and my dad felt that I should learn to sing properly so I wouldn't damage my voice and thus began my weekly voice lessons.

What was your first gig in musical improv?

I think it was one of the very earliest of incarnations of this exact show. It was on 28th street in a black box theatre. We hadn’t totally figured out what the format would be so it was basically a night of improvised songs. So. Much. Fun.

How do you keep it all together when you are up on stage doing your thing?

I think practice makes perfect, not to say that I'm perfect. I think that practicing feeling uncomfortable onstage and not knowing what to do next is a great way to get ready for the show. I think listening really helps me onstage. As long as I'm listening and staying present I can probably be pen to having an authentic perhaps even interesting or funny response to what is happening. Also having an open mind and heart help. I have a mantra that I say before any show, well, actually before anything stressful.

What is the strangest suggestion you have gotten?

It wasn't in a BNHM show but I think the most unusual suggestion I've ever gotten when doing an improv show, when asked for what you will dress up as for Halloween: A Portuguese Man O'War. This suggestion was given by a 10 year old BTW.

What is your most memorable improv moment?

One of the most memorable moments was during one of our shows when my father was in the audience. I got onstage and pulled out a song title from the bowl and before I'd looked at it, I dedicated the song to my father. I then looked down at the song title and it was "Sex, Penis, Vagina, Boob, C**k, Balls." Here's to you dad!

When you aren't found at the Phony Awards, where might you be out in the city?

I might be at a voiceover audition or working as a standardized patient at Mount Sinai hospital. You might see me on the subway heading here or there. I might be teaching my improv class at Nola studios. I might be on my way to a tap class, you just never know!

What question have you never been asked, but have always wanted to answer?

How were you able to start so far behind the eight ball in life and find your way to where you are today?

LIVE Radio Chat with Greg Triggs This THURSDAY @ 3

2011-02-15T13:14:00.004-05:00

Tune in to BLOG TALK RADIO: Musical Theater Talk, on Thursday, February 17 at 3PM and catch Greg Trigs, host of Broadway's Next H!T Musical. You can ask Greg questions through the Chat Room or possibly call in to 347-237-5224.

If you can't be there to listen to Trish Causey talk with Greg LIVE, check out this SITE for an instant replay. If you have questions for Greg that don't make it to the radio, post them to the BLOG, TWITTER, or FACEBOOK!

"Improvisation News"~Review

2011-02-15T12:21:00.004-05:00

Improvisation News reviewed our show in 2010. Check out what they had to say!

Did you see the show? Feel free to sign up on the site and write your own review! Don't forget to share!

That's What He Said...

2011-02-14T12:31:00.001-05:00

"So much in the world has changed since the last time we got together in late 2010. If you remember the MTA was screwing up, the government was handling snow removal poorly, Lindsay Lohan was in trouble. So much has changed."

-Greg Triggs, Host; February 10, 2011

Introducing the Runners-Up from 2/10~

2011-02-13T23:23:00.001-05:00

-"Battle for Atari" from the musical 1980s Economics

-"At Home With My Snuggie" from the musical I-did-a-rod

-"I Ain't Your Bitch, Bitch" from the musical The Streets, Yo

If you liked the Grammys...

2011-02-13T23:12:00.001-05:00

...You will LOVE the PHONYS. Come to our show this Thursday @ 9PM at the Triad!

http://broadwaysnexthitmusical.com/

And The Winner Is...

2011-02-11T16:38:00.003-05:00

After a night of red carpet glitz and some of Broadway's finest moments, taking home this week's Phony Award was (drum roll...) "Winona Ryder & Lindsay Lohan Went Shopping" from the Broadway Musical, Stolen Days.

Stay tuned for more highlights from the opening night of Broadway's Next H!T Musical.

Countdown to Hilarity!!!!!!

2011-02-08T00:24:00.002-05:00

OK, it's getting close.

Thursday to be exact.

We've had some really interesting rehearsals for the show.

Now we weren't actually rehearsing the show itself because that's impossible, but working on some fun aspects of the show.

I sang a song the other night and the musical it turned unto was a murder mystery.....

So fun!

Who knows what type of musical we'll create on Thursday at 9pm.

If you're there you'll know and if you're not...well, all i'm saying is don't miss the boat!

Come out on Thursday at 9pm and be part of the fun!

3 Days

2011-02-07T23:20:00.004-05:00

3 Days until the first show of this run of Broadway's Next Hit Musical at The Triad. I am excited, nervous, exhausted and ready to start. I wonder what songs I will sing. I wonder what characters I will play. I wonder what hilarious $&%t my fellow cast members will do that will make me pee myself.

If you wonder these things too, come find out on 2/10, 17, 24 & 3/3 at 9pm at The Triad!

SPOTLIGHT BIO: Rob Schiffmann

2011-02-06T11:56:00.006-05:00

In this new weekly spotlight biography section, we will introduce the cast of Broadway’s Next H!T Musical to you. This week we start with actor, musician and new daddy, Rob Schiffmann. He is the second longest running member with the group.

If you have any questions for Rob, please post below and we will get you some answers!

Who or what inspired you to do improv?
Nina Furst, my acting teacher in 5th grade. She taught theater through improvisation and still continues to today.

How long have you been singing/improvising?
Singing since the age of 4, when I started playing the piano. Improvising since the age of 10. Rocking since the age of -7 months (I was 2 months premature).

When you aren't found at the Phony Awards, where might you be out in the city?
At Chicago City Limits, playing with my band The Hillary Step, seeing a movie or most likely, playing with my 6 1/2 month old daughter Abbey!

How do you keep it all together when you are up on stage doing your thing?
Slow down, listen and PLAY!

What is your most memorable moment in improv?
I was in a show once where I was playing the evil villain "80s Man". I had just been defeated and my daughter, who I had oppressed for years, was getting married as I lay dying. The person playing the reverend said, "Dearly beloved....". Just then I stood up and said, "We are gathered here today to get through this thing called LIFE". The lights then went out and the piano played a scary chord and that was the end of the show. The audience lost their mind and somewhere Prince smiled!

Message from Rob~
www.thehillarystep.com -- if you like my songs, check out the ones I have written on my new CD, "Note to Self"!!

Come see Rob and the rest of the cast starting this Thursday at 9PM at the Triad Theater.
http://www.broadwaysnexthitmusical.com/

Roll out the Red Carpet

2011-02-04T00:17:00.003-05:00

Only one week until the Phony Awards hit NYC. Do you have your seats to New York's only spontaneous Red Carpet event? http://www.broadwaysnexthitmusical.com/

It's Coming...

2011-01-28T12:14:00.003-05:00

Another Nor'easter? Perhaps. But what we can guarantee is starting February 10th, Broadway's Next H!T Musical returns to NYC! Warm up with us this winter at the Triad Theater on the Upper West Side. Visit http://www.broadwaysnexthitmusical.com for show & ticket information.

Thank YOU For Your Suggestions!

2011-01-20T19:59:00.001-05:00

Thank you all for your posts, messages and tweets! Your suggestions inspired a lot of fun at rehearsal. The randomly selected song titles that made it to the stage were (drum roll)...

"Shipwreck of My Heart"

"Tickle Me Pink"

"When Your Ferret Bit My Ankle"

Come back and play along with us again!

Calling for Suggestions!

2011-01-19T07:21:00.003-05:00

The cast of Broadway's Next Hit musical is rehearsing and needs your help! Please post us ideas for made up song titles and we will use one at random in tonight's rehearsal. Check back for video to see what we came up with!

Genius Rhyme

2011-01-11T16:09:00.002-05:00

Rhyme, as I have said in the past, is both easy and difficult. It's easy because, let's face it, we can all rhyme. It's hard because we can psych ourselves out in the moment and forget to accept whatever comes our way.

'Whatever comes' does not seem to be an issue for Biggie Smalls, who managed to come up with the following little slice of magic:

"I've got the cleanest, meanest Penis, you've never seen this, stroke of genius".

Thanks Biggie. You remind us what's really important.

If only I could reach such heights.

Come see me try at an upcoming show!

Rob

The Motel 6 syndrome

2010-12-14T20:36:00.003-05:00

Every now and then, while I am improvising a song, a dirty line comes to mind. It's never intentional but when I am that in the moment, sometimes crazy and dirty things do come to mind. Then I have to make a split second decision: do I edit myself and try to find another time, thus putting myself in my head and not really being truly in the moment or do I go for it and face the consequences, of which there are generally none except that I feel cheap for having gone that way.

Recently in a show, I ended a line with the word 'hunt' and then I had to rhyme with it. In that instance, I chose to go clean because the 'C-word' is like the worst there is. But, I did feel cheap. Cheap but clean....like a Motel 6.

Synergy and all the Little Extras That Make It Special

2010-11-30T01:34:00.002-05:00

So, the last show of the run was "Gloucester, USA" and the song was the one I sang: "He May Be Here".

There were a bunch of interesting behind the scenes references on going on in regard to the little things in this lovely musical we improvised. Well, for me anyway.

I have a friend who lives in Gloucester, Mass and she and her father attended our show countless times. They're both huge supporters of the show and me. Last year around this time of year he unfortunately passed away quite unexpectedly and it was absolutely a shock to the system.

During this particular show where we improvised "Gloucester, USA", I was aware that a student of his was in attendance in the audience. I wasn't really obsessed with it or anything I just sort of remembered it as I got onstage to deliver my song.

So, in the scene that took place before the song someone named the bartender character Charlie, and in that moment I knew I needed to be named Margaret. You see, my friend's father's name was Charlie and his wife's name is Margaret. These opportunities present themselves rarely but I knew that this was my little tribute to him. He would have loved it if he'd been here to see it. I know his student loved it and I loved it. I felt like he was there and I felt connected to this story in a very layered way.

So sometimes it's just improv and sometimes it's something more.

This time it was more for me.

Deb

ALL THAT JAZZ

2010-11-15T11:16:00.003-05:00

One of the greatest things about our show is that it is constantly in the moment ... it's the only time it could or will exist. This morning I was watching ALL THAT JAZZ which I dragged my friends to eight times before I could drive. Before the video revolution that's how you saw movies multiple times, as long as Bill Massino could get his Dad's car.

There's no way ALL THAT JAZZ would be made today. It's very specific and the best of it reminds me of BROADWAY'S NEXT HIT MUSICAL. It tells the story the audience wanted to hear at that moment.

I can only imagine how great Airotica would be with Rob Schiffmann and Rebecca Vigil.

Last week's songs included Moon Over My Hammy and You Want to Put What, Where?. Come find out what the latest titles will be this coming Thursday, November 18th at 8pm. It's the last show of this run. Hope to see you there.

Valerie's Gallery Review

2010-11-15T10:16:00.000-05:00

We just got an awesome review on the Three Tomatoes website! What do you think?

Valerie's Gallery

Listen to Rob and Debbie on WOR

2010-10-26T22:03:00.000-04:00

Many thanks to Valerie Smaldone from Valerie's New York and everyone at WOR for having us on the show!

Rob Schiffmann and Debbie Rabbai on WOR

Cast members on Valerie's New York tomorrow!

2010-10-25T23:23:00.000-04:00

Valerie Smaldone

Just a quick note to let you know that we will be appearing tomorrow night (Tuesday, October 26th) on "Valerie's New York," hosted by Valerie Smaldone. The show airs at 6PM on WOR, which you can stream at www.wor710.com. Don't miss it!

Greg says, “Understudy Over-Talented”

2010-10-24T08:35:00.000-04:00

Greg Trigg's Understudy Nancy Witter

I am out of town on a job, so the latest performer in our roster of emcees will open on October 28^th. Please welcome the very talented Nancy Witter to the Broadway’s Next Hit Musical family.

Very talented.

It’s hard to have an understudy that’s very talented. You’re thrilled to watch them while they’re performing but part of you sits back and wonders, “what if she’s better than me?” That’s the time you take a deep breath and just accept that in some ways she will be better. Some people will like her more. Some people will laugh louder at her jokes than they have at mine. Some people will prefer a woman to a man. It’s subjective and that’s just fine. Someone out in the audience will be disappointed that I’m not there. Okay, so it’s going to be the server I tip $5 for my second act glass of wine, but I’ll still be missed. No one will have time to realize it though. They’ll be too busy laughing at the hilarious, talented and much appreciated Nancy Witter.

Get your tickets now to see the show on the 28^th, 8PM at the Triad!