‘Other’ talents: Original cabaret show examines art, artists

2024-07-10
‘Other’ talents: Original cabaret show examines art, artists

Chasing the Spotlight: The Untold Stories of Aspiring Performers

In the glittering world of show business, the path to stardom is paved with both triumph and heartbreak. While the spotlight shines brightly on a select few, countless others toil in the shadows, their dreams of fame and recognition often fading into obscurity. This is the untold story of "The Other 99" – the aspiring performers who dare to chase their passions, even in the face of overwhelming odds.

Resilience and Passion: The Driving Force Behind the Unsung Artists

The Unsung Heroes of the Performing Arts

The entertainment industry is a relentless pursuit, where only a select few are able to rise to the top. For every star performer who graces the stage, there are countless others who never quite make it into the limelight. But these unsung heroes are not to be overlooked, for they possess a unique resilience and an unwavering passion that sets them apart.Chris Tompkins, the executive director of On-Stage LIVE! Entertainment, has witnessed this phenomenon firsthand throughout his career in the industry. "There's a story of resilience that make up artists — whether that be an architect or a fashion designer or a singer or a dancer, there's something innate about an artist and their internal passion to just never give in and never give out and never give up," he says.

Bringing the Untold Stories to Life

It is this very spirit of resilience and determination that forms the foundation of "The Other 99," the newest show at On-Stage LIVE! Cabaret in Greenwood. Originally conceived while Tompkins was working in Las Vegas, the musical performance delves into the travails of a group of aspiring actors as they hustle for their big break."The Other 99" offers a unique opportunity for performers to tap into their own experiences and bring the hopes, dreams, disappointments, and fears of the "other 99" to life on stage. "In reality, especially in the performing arts world, only 1 in 100, sometimes even more than that, ever gets cast. The story is what happens to the other 99 — what happens to them? What is there story?" Tompkins explains.

A Journey of Self-Discovery

The show's structure reflects the challenges faced by these aspiring performers. In the first act, the director chooses the one performer who will be cast in a fictional show, leaving the remaining actors as the "other 99" – those left to search for their next opportunity. But the director throws a curveball, asking eight of the performers to stay behind and try out for a different show idea.As the performers wait to hear the director's decision, they share their fears, excitement, motivations, and passions, setting the stage for the second act. Here, the director returns and asks the eight performers to find a costume that speaks to them and perform a song that reveals their true selves."It literally builds and builds to the finale of, you're here, they're almost sold, but this is all-or-nothing — they're going to go with all of you, or they're not going to do it. What are you going to bring as a cast?" Tompkins says, highlighting the high-stakes nature of the performance.

Transforming the Stage into a Reflection of the Performers

In staging "The Other 99," Tompkins has drawn upon his extensive experience in the entertainment industry to create a visually stunning production. The Greenwood theater will be transformed, transporting the audience from central Indiana to the glitz and glamour of Las Vegas, complete with Vegas-style costumes, sets, and choreography.But the true heart of the show lies in the growth and self-discovery of the performers themselves. "Normally, the cast is given a role and given direction in that role — you're this character, this is the motivation of the character, this is how you move, this is how you talk, this is how you sing. They're very boxed in," Tompkins explains. "What has been so wonderfully awakening is to realize this is not being put into a category or a character; they are sharing their true life on stage."As the performers pour their hearts and souls into their performances, the audience is invited to witness the raw emotion and vulnerability that lies at the core of the "other 99" – the unsung heroes who refuse to give up on their dreams, no matter the odds.

Article "tagged" as:

Related Article

How to Keep Your Kitten Safe While Playing

How to Keep Your Kitten Safe While Playing

While letting your kitten play and explore is important to its mental development, you need to make sure that what it's playing with is safe.
Kitten Development From 6 to 12 Weeks

Kitten Development From 6 to 12 Weeks

Learn how kittens develop during the first 6 to 12 weeks and what signs of development you need to look out for with these tips.
5 Common Foods In Your Pantry That Are Not Safe For Your Pets

5 Common Foods In Your Pantry That Are Not Safe For Your Pets

One potato chip is not going to hurt your pet, but there are other foods that can. Learn which to avoid and some safe foods that can be used as treats.
Fleas in Dogs

Fleas in Dogs

If a dog scratches, does that mean it has fleas? These biting bugs are no fun for dogs or their owners. Learn the causes, treatment, and prevention.
Can Dogs Eat Papaya? What to Know About Sharing This Tropical Fruit With Your Pup

Can Dogs Eat Papaya? What to Know About Sharing This Tropical Fruit With Your Pup

Papaya is safe for dogs in moderation, and it can even provide some nutritional value for them. However, too much can cause digestive upset, and it's not suitable to share with dogs with certain health conditions.
Can Dogs Eat Parmesan Cheese?

Can Dogs Eat Parmesan Cheese?

It's no secret that dogs love cheese, but what kinds of cheese should you avoid? Is Parmesan cheese a good option to treat your pup to?
10 Cat Breeds That Have Blue-Colored Coats

10 Cat Breeds That Have Blue-Colored Coats

Blue cat breeds have a uniquely colored coat that makes them stand out. The eye-catching blue coat often appears light to dark grey.
Sphynx: Cat Breed Profile, Characteristics & Care

Sphynx: Cat Breed Profile, Characteristics & Care

The sphynx cat is a hairless cat breed known for their playful and affectionate nature. These cats do have special needs. Learn about the sphynx cat breed’s appearance, temperament, health, and care.
Border Collie: Dog Breed Characteristics & Care

Border Collie: Dog Breed Characteristics & Care

Learn about the border collie, a popular herding breed. They're a smart and energetic dog that's also a great companion to the right pet parent.
Beagle: Dog Breed Characteristics & Care

Beagle: Dog Breed Characteristics & Care

Learn about the beagle, one of the most popular dog breeds in the world. They are known for being a cheerful, comical, loud, and energetic family dog.
How to Grow and Care for Living Stones

How to Grow and Care for Living Stones

Find out how to grow living stones, unique miniature succulents that look like pebbles. This guide covers how to care for living stone plants, including watering them just right to keep them thriving.
How to Grow and Care for a Money Tree Indoors

How to Grow and Care for a Money Tree Indoors

Money trees make beautiful, easy-care houseplants. Use this guide to grow a money tree indoors.
How to Attract Bluebirds to Your Yard: 11 Must-Know Tips

How to Attract Bluebirds to Your Yard: 11 Must-Know Tips

These tips on how to attract bluebirds will help you create a welcoming habitat. Discover the best types of foods, birdhouses, water sources, and more for attracting bluebirds.
How to Propagate Clematis from Cuttings and Layering

How to Propagate Clematis from Cuttings and Layering

Learn how to propagate clematis successfully with this step-by-step guide on two different techniques.
How to Plant and Grow Black Chokeberry

How to Plant and Grow Black Chokeberry

Learn how to use and care for this low-maintenance native shrub, including planting tips and the best types of black chokeberry to grow.
This Low-Water Garden Plan Will Look Vibrant Through Droughts

This Low-Water Garden Plan Will Look Vibrant Through Droughts

This low-water garden plan will keep your plants vibrant all throughout the hot, humid summer.
This Woodland Garden Design Overflows with Shade-Loving Plants

This Woodland Garden Design Overflows with Shade-Loving Plants

Easy-care native ferns add luxurious foliage from spring to fall. Other shade-loving perennials complement the soft textures with colorful blooms.
11 Essential Tips for Growing Vegetables from Seed for Beginners

11 Essential Tips for Growing Vegetables from Seed for Beginners

These beginner-friendly tips on growing vegetables from seed will help you successfully kick off your edible garden in spring.
Should You Use Shredded Rubber Mulch in Your Garden?

Should You Use Shredded Rubber Mulch in Your Garden?

Rubber mulch is widely touted as a game changer in landscaping, but does it live up to the hype? Find out the pros and cons of using rubber mulch.
How to Plant and Grow Cattail

How to Plant and Grow Cattail

Learn to care for this easy-growing aquatic plant, including tips for pruning, propagating, and planting.