For Transcendence Theatre, the beat goes on… down the road.
In the world of Broadway musicals, the star twists an ankle or runs off to get married. But even without the big star, the show must go on. So the understudy, a novice, is rushed in. The audience is transfixed. The production is a smash.
Usually the sensation in this scenario is the understudy actor. This time, as Transcendence Theatre Company looks to open its 2023 season, it’s the venue.
The company will utilize the 30+ acre Kenwood ranch property of the nonprofit Belos Cavalos as the outdoor open-air theatre location for The Beat Goes On, a musical revue with eight performances June 16 through July 2.
Why the move from the company’s longtime home in Jack London State Park? TTC’s decision to move the show is a result of the outcome of the California Park Rangers Association litigation.
Last April, after 10 years of performances at Jack London State Historic Park, the court ruled that State Parks must conduct a study evaluating the impact of the Transcendence musical concerts in the park. State Parks began the study in September 2022 and the study was anticipated to be completed prior to the end of April 2023.
But according to TTC, the delay of the study’s completion created a timeline that was too short. The venue move should be a one-time deal. “We look forward to returning to Jack London State Historic Park for the remainder of our 2023 season in late July,” said Brad Surosky, executive director of Transcendence Theatre Company.
Tickets already purchased for The Beat Goes On will transfer to the new location; no action is required on the part of ticket holders. The Belos Cavalos ranch provides a similar outdoor theatre under the stars experience for attendees with the stage and seating area in the same configuration as in Jack London State Historic Park, and a new backdrop view of the western slope of Sonoma Mountain.
“It’s a gorgeous property,” said Surosky, (that) will have a similar scenic open-air theater under-the-stars experience.”
The host, Belos Cavalos Founder Dr. Charlyn Belluzzo, agreed. “It’s a perfect match for our ranch’s natural setting, with Broadway quality musical shows performed under the stars surrounded by the scenic beauty of the Sonoma Mountains.”
Ample on-site parking will be available for all patrons. The grounds will be open for the pre-show picnic at 5pm, with food trucks and wine poured from a variety of local wineries. Pre-show music and entertainment will be a part of the experience.
And what about the show itself? The Beat Goes On celebrates the “grooviest, hippest, and most rockin’ hits from the ’60s, ’70s, and ’80s.” Sung with a live band and fantastic choreography, the troupe of Broadway-level performers cover the likes of The Beatles and the Stones, the Mamas and the Papas, Donna Summer, Prince, Madonna, and more. Attendees are encouraged to dress era-appropriate .
Tickets for the complete Transcendence 2023 Broadway Under the Stars Summer Season are available now or by calling 877-424-1414.
