Voices of Hope to Raise "Curtains" at North Shore Music Theatre

Because I say, the show must go on!

Voices of Hope (VOH) is performing “Curtains,” a lively and comical musical mystery with lyrics by Kander and Ebb. Set in 1959 Boston, Lieutenant Frank Cioffi, a theater-loving cop, solves the murder of the leading lady on the opening night of a new musical.

Each year, Voices of Hope carefully selects its production based on audience appeal. Though not as widely known, artistic director Dana Siegal said they wanted a joyful production for VOH’s 18th year.

“There’s been a lot of dark and heavy moments across our community, and we wanted to focus on something that would bring light and laughter,” Siegal said.

“Curtains” is by the same songwriting team that created “Cabaret” and “Chicago.” Siegal also described the murder-mystery angle as reminiscent of the movie “Clue (1985),” with the classic show-within-a-show style of “42nd Street.”

50 cast members have dedicated multiple days a week to rehearsals, which have been filled with dance, blocking, and laughter. This production has several shoes to fill, both on and off the stage, including choreography, music, and a tech team.

Kenny Meehan plays Lieutenant Frank Cioffi, a detective who loves musical theatre. In a real-life hits-the-stage moment, Meehan is actually a police sergeant.

“Cioffi is a great character because he genuinely loves theatre while also trying to solve a murder in the middle of a chaotic Broadway production,” Meehan said. “‘Curtains’ is funny, clever, and full of great music, and it reminds us how much fun live theatre can be.”

Jean Chastain, the wife of VOH founder Greg Chastain, is performing her first speaking role in a Voices of Hope show. She has been in the ensemble for previous shows. Chastain plays Jessica Cranshaw, a washed-up film star. Chastain said it’s been fun creating new voices and channeling stars, like Carol Burnett and Lucille Ball.

“‘Curtains’ is a musical comedy, with catchy songs, and dance numbers where you’ll be tapping your feet, and of course, a love interest,” Chastain said.

The show has a fabulous list of songs, including ’What Kind of Man,’ ‘I Miss the Music,’ and ‘Show People.’ 30-year music director veteran, Alan Freedman, is leading his first VOH book musical. He said the music features a lot of harmony and a 15-piece orchestra during a dream sequence.

“(‘Curtains’) is a homage to the power of musical theater to be the happy place for people to pursue their passions and dreams,” Freedman said.

This year, VOH sisters-in-law, Danielle Belmonte and Julie Woods, are featured dancers, who describe the choreography as fun and silly, enhancing the show-within-a-show aspect.

“VOH always knows how to bring entertainment to the audience to draw as many donations to cancer research as possible,” said Wood, who has been a member since 2020.

Along with laughter and music, Siegal said to expect a marvel of technical aspects. Since “Curtains” is usually performed on a proscenium stage, creative staging has been done for North Shore Music Theatre’s round stage.

VOH is excited for audiences to attend “Curtains,” calling it witty and full of surprises. One theme of the show is connection, in bringing people together.

“We are supporting each other and our audiences through the good and bad,” Belmonte said. “I hope with this show that everyone can have fun, have some laughs, and enjoy their time at the theater.”

Voices of Hope’s “Curtains” will be performed at the North Music Theatre in Beverly, MA, Saturday, April 17 at 8:00 p.m., and Sunday, April 19 at 2:00 p.m. The silent auction starts an hour before each show. All proceeds benefit the Termeer Center for Targeted Therapies at Mass General Brigham Cancer Institute.

Tickets are available online: https://www.vohboston.org/shows/curtains-kander-and-ebb/