Alpine Theatre Project presents ‘The Great American Songbook’

Ten Broadway professionals from New York and Los Angeles are in Whitefish right now to teach local students at Alpine Theatre Project's Broadway summer camp, and this Wednesday and Thursday, July 1 and 2 at 7 p.m., they'll take the stage for two nights only.

"The Great American Songbook” is a theatrical celebration of the songs that helped define American music. Featuring Broadway performers, live music and choreography, the show brings classics like "Over the Rainbow," "Fly Me to the Moon," "My Funny Valentine," and "God Bless America" to life. These are songs recorded by everyone from Frank Sinatra to Lady Gaga, and with Independence Day just around the corner, this year's production also includes patriotic favorites.

Flathead Valley audiences may already know some of these performers. Angela Wildflower starred as Billie Holiday, and LaTrisa Harper directed ATP's acclaimed production of Lady Day at Emerson's Bar and Grill earlier this year. They're joined by Joshua Stephen Kartes, co-creator of Broadway's Broadway Sings concert series; Emmy winner Susan O'Dea; Cameron Mitchell Bell (Beauty and the Beast national tour); Amelia Cormack (Hadestown on Broadway); Anne Fraser Thomas (The Queen of Versailles on Broadway); Matthew Sims Jr.; Becky Stout; and Flathead Valley favorites Rebecca Spear and Mikey Winn, backed by a live band featuring Steinway piano, bass, and drums.

During the day, these artists work side by side with Flathead Valley students in ATP's three-week Broadway Summer Camp. This Wednesday and Thursday, they step onto the Whitefish Performing Arts Center stage for two public performances.

"There's something about being in a room together for a live performance that you just can't get anywhere else," said Cynthia Benkelman, ATP executive director. "Every audience is different. Every performance is different. After Thursday, this one is gone." 

“The Great American Songbook” will be at the Whitefish Performing Arts Center. Tickets are $35 for adults and $15 for students and are available at www.atpwhitefish.org.