[VOTE] What Is Your Opinion of Jesus Christ Superstar”?

The iconic “Jesus Christ Superstar” makes a stop at the Lyric Opera of Chicago in April 2018. I have never seen the play, but I’ve always been skeptical with the title alone.

This week, BTSCelebs received an official  press release about the Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice classic which included the following synopsis:

“… this global blockbuster tells the story of the final weeks in the life of Jesus Christ, from the perspective of Judas Iscariot. As Christ’s followers grow more fervent, Judas must make his fateful choice between faith and betrayal.”

I want to know what you think about “Jesus Christ Superstar”. Do you love, hate, or never seen it before? Take the poll below to share your opinion.

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Tiffany Alvord Commemorates Birthday

 

Tiffany writes on Instagram: “Don’t need no wishes when I got so many amazing people in my life. I love you guys!! 💝”

All rights to the image and quote belong  Tiffany Alvord. 

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Theatre Review: Joffrey Ballet’s “The Nutcracker”

photo by Cheryl Mann

Christopher Wheeldon’s “The Nutcracker” resembles a fan favorite on Broadway.

In this re-imagined version of a timeless classic, a poor girl named Marie (Amanda Assucena) dreams of a perfect World’s Fair. Following a humble yet joyous Christmas party (in the small home she shares with her widow mom and brother), Marie falls fast asleep and is whisked away to a wonderful place where countries come together and showcase the appeal of their homeland. The Great Impresario of the Fair (Miguel Angel Blanco) guided Marie and his apprentice Peter (Alberto Velazquez) throughout the breathtaking vision. However, the biggest surprise came for the Great Impresario himself when he fell in love with the Queen of the Fair (Victoria Jaiani) and Marie’s mother in real life.

photo by Cheryl Mann

photo by Cheryl Mann

Each scene reminds me of a gorgeous painting come to life. The dancers were exceptional in their roles in reality and the dream world. The Arabian, Spanish, Venetian Masked and Snow, and Nut dancer’s choreography are the ones to highly anticipate. The snow scene alone made the audience feel like we had walked into our very own dream… that we wanted to last forever.

The Joffrey Ballet outdid themselves when it came to the spectacular backdrop, props and wardrobe. It was simply exquisite. From the detailed house interior to the lighted World’s Fair, it’s impossible not to be blown away by the stage! I believe that the scenery even surpassed Lyric Opera‘s set in past years.

photo by Cheryl Mann

Christopher Wheeldon’s “The Nutcracker” runs thru December 30th, 2017 at the Auditorium Theatre in Chicago.

* A Special Thanks to The Silverman Group for allowing BTSCelebs to review the ballet*

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Martin Sensmeier Shows Compassion for California Wildfire Victims

Yesterday, “The Magnificent Seven” actor took some time out of his day to show love to those suffering on the West coast and remind others to do the same. It was a simple message accompanied by a horrific image illustrating the current state of events.

Martin Sensmeier : “Praying for everyone’s safety as these fires burn out of control in SoCal. 🙏🏽❤️”

BTSCelebs hopes everyone in California stays safe.

All rights to the images and quote belongs to Martin Sensmeier.

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Movie Reviews: “12 Days of Giving” and “Christmas Princess”

These two films are gems you can’t miss this Christmas season.

Yesterday, UP tv premiered the touching family movie “12 Days of Giving”. Actor David Blue portrayed Baxter, who is a photographer that wins $50,000 and decides to share his winnings to bless those in his community. During his spending spree, he stumbles upon a widow named Pamela (actress Ashley Jones) and her young son. One surprise gift and a life-saving event transforms Baxter’s life and helps him go after his own dreams.

“12 Days of Giving” deserves 10 stars out of 10! It has “Paper Angels” charm while maintaining it’s own unique storyline. After one viewing, you’ll happily add this to your yearly must-watch Christmas collection.

“Christmas Princess” is another yearly must-watch. Based on the life story of brave young lady Donaly Marquez, the encouraging film gives you a glimpse into her dark past and places a spotlight on her bright future. Actress Nicole Muñoz portrays Donaly as she embarks on the competition to become one of the prestigious Rose Bowl princesses. However, the scars from her childhood (with her neglectful birth mom) threatens to ruin her present and future. Throughout the movie, Donaly has to learn to trust in God and rely on her family and friends to truly embrace a happy life.

“Christmas Princess” has just the right mixture of UP tv goodness and classic Lifetime suspense to keep you guessing until the very end. If you enjoy movies from both cable networks, this will become your new favorite. I loved the way her adoptive parents showered her with so much love and attention. They treated her and her siblings like they were their actual biological children. It seems their strong Christian faith was the glue that kept the family together. Actors Rosa Blasi and Zak Santiago portray her loving mom and dad, Sara and Ignacio Marquez.

You can catch the premiere of “Christmas Princess” this Sunday, December 10 at 7PM [EST] on UP tv.

*A Special Thanks to UP tv’s PR for the movie screener and images.*

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“Boy Band” Runner-Ups Tease New Group

Today, “Boy Band” finalist Jaden Gray shared a photo of himself via Instagram with former contestants Marcus and Mikey (Cam was tagged too) hinting that they have formed their own boy band. The boys were so close to joining ABC’s group In Real Life in the summer before the audience was forced to make a tough decision. Now, music lovers will get the best of both worlds when these boys join In Real Life in mainstream music.

Check out Jaden’s caption below:

“Oh yeahhhh!!! We are closer to the dream than ever!!!! If you’re ready for this band comment ‘let’s gooooooo’!!!!”

Their official debut date will be announced at a later date.

All rights to the image and quote belongs to Jaden Gray.

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Meet Mulan: Song Seung Heon’s Girlfriend, Liu Yifei, Cast in Disney’s Live Action Film

Congrats!

Yifei hit the jackpot! She’s been dating South Korean actor Song Seung Heon for two years, and now she’s ready to take on an iconic role. “Mulan” is one of my favorite Disney movies. I highly anticipate the theatrical release.

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Movie Review: “Christmas Solo”

Stars Kelli Williams and Jonathan Scarfe lead a hard-working cast anxious to bring the holiday spirit into your home.

In “Christmas Solo”, a single mom and dad’s worlds collide when they discover the secret behind their teens’ current unhappiness. While the parents were trying to embark on a special relationship, they had no idea their girls were involved in a bully/victim situation. Friends on both sides play an integral part in the good, the bad and the road to reconciliation. Thankfully, movie magic gives our main stars and important supporting actors a chance at a happily ever after.

“Christmas Solo” is a laid-back production, and it takes awhile to get into it. Once you do, you realize the film is sending viewers a powerful message about forgiveness. The ending is so precious you are tempted to re-watch it several times before Christmas Day!

Watch the premiere of UPtv’s next family film on November 26 at 7PM [EST].

*A Special Thanks to UP tv’s PR for the movie screener and images.*

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Jordin Sparks Announces Baby’s Gender

Following the surprise announcement of a wedding and pregnancy, the American Idol winner is ready to reveal the gender of her baby. Today, she and hubby Dana shared that they are thankful for the baby boy they’re having in the Spring.

“IT’S A BOY!!! We have so much to be thankful for and this is definitely at the top of the list! @_danaisaiah’s gonna have a little mini me running around! We can’t wait to meet him. We love you lil man!”

Congratulations!

All rights to the images and quote belong to Jordin Sparks and Dana Isaiah.

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Movie Review: “Christmas Calendar”

Surprises are in store!

A professional lawyer (Emily) returns to her hometown to check in on her grandmother’s bakery and home. She quickly learns that the state of her grandma’s finances is like the Grinch that threatens to ruin Christmas. However, an unexpected Christmas calendar brightens her dark December, and Emily discovers she may have more than one admirer this holiday season.

“Christmas Calendar” will keep you guessing until the end, and it’s a special treat. The movie mirrors one of my favorite Hallmark films “The Christmas Ornament” (2013). The baking, unexpected present and moving on after a death in the family are the elements I felt were very similar. If you love classic holiday films that place a spotlight on small town, good friends and love, you’ll appreciate this tenderhearted movie. Stars Laura Bell Bundy, Brendon Zub and Paloma Kwiatkowski are featured.

“Christmas Calendar” premieres today at 7PM EST on UPtv.

*BTSCelebs sends a special thanks to UP tv for the screener and images.*

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