FEBRUARY 2010

JAMES BEAMAN WILL PLAY CHARLIE DAVENPORT IN "ANNIE GET YOUR GUN" AT GOODSPEED OPERA HOUSE
April 16 through June 27, 2010


I am thrilled to announce that I will be making my debut with Goodspeed Musicals this spring in Irving Berlin's classic "Annie Get Your Gun." I have long wanted to work at this prestigious theatre and I am really delighted to be playing Charlie Davenport, the manager of Buffalo Bill's Wild West Show (if you've seen the movie with Betty Hutton, Charlie was played by Keenan Wynn). The production will be directed by Rob Ruggiero, who has directed several productions at the theatre and is at the helm of the new Broadway comedy, "Looped," starring Valerie Harper as Tallulah Bankhead. Jenn Gambatese, who has played leading roles on Broadway in "Tarzan," "Hairspray," and "All Shook Up," will play Annie Oakley.

Stay tuned for more information on the production, cast, and other news!

JANUARY 2010

"THE NUTTY PROFESSOR" MUSICAL READING

The year started with a great treat, as I was invited back to participate in the second reading of the new musical, "The Nutty Professor," with music by Marvin Hamlisch, book and lyrics by Rupert Holmes, and directed by Jerry Lewis. The brainchild of star and co-producer Michael Andrew, this new show has a projected fall 2010 Broadway opening. I put on my best 'radio voice' as the narrator of the reading, and sang with the ensemble. The cast was stellar, including Kerry Butler, Danny Burstein, Jamie Ross, Klea Blackhurst, as well as Andrew himself, giving an amazing dual performance as Professor Kelp and Buddy Love.


Just being in that room for the week was an honor and a pleasure. Rehearsing with Marvin and Rupert, being a part of their creative process, and then performing the reading with Marvin at the piano right beside me was indescribable. Mr. Jerry Lewis is every inch the star and a man of true heart, generosity and greatness. His stories and jokes were priceless and the kindness he showered us all with, not to mention the great joy he is having, at 84, of directing his first Broadway show...
believe me, I felt like I was witnessing theatre history in the making.