What an inspirational journey: from a “crazy” idea pitched in Berlin several years ago to a limited engagement at the Hudson Theatre in Hollywood. With endless more steps in between (the readings in NY and LA) and god knows how many hurdles for creator/producer Hans Berlin.

The idea itself was tantalizing: “a revealing musical” on… porn, no less.
The world premiere we saw at the Hudson’s –playing one final weekend this June 28-30– speaks volumes of Hans’ vision and perseverance. Of the talent he was able to attract: composer Thomas Zaufk, lyricist Erik Ransom, director Michael Bello, choreographer Jim Cooney… And of the brave cast who lent their voices and bodies to Hans’ characters (a shoutout to lead Taubert Nadalini, to a glorious Karole Foreman and an unforgettable Michael Scott Harris).

A work in progress, still, Shooting Star has the muscles to make it to the big stage. I look forward to booking my seat at the Pantages or the Ahmanson a few years down the road. Read the Operetta Research’s review