Altar Boyz


Chromolume Theatre
April 4 - May 11, 2014
Book and Lyrics by Gary Adler and Michael Patrick Walker
Book by Kevin Del Aguila
Conceived by Marc Kessler and Ken Davenport
Fri, Sat. 8pm
Sun. 2pm

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

ALTAR BOYZ is a foot-stomping, rafter-raising, musical comedy about a fictitious Christian boy-band on the last night of their national "Raise the Praise" tour. The Boyz are five all-singing, all-dancing heartthrobs from Ohio: Matthew, Mark, Luke, Juan and Abraham. With their tight harmonies and spectacular choreography, the ALTAR BOYZ will delight you as they perform their signature hits such as "Rhythm In Me," "The Calling," and "I Believe." The Boyz question their loyalty to each other and ask whether or not faith is really holding them together. Will they deliver a message of unity or go their separate ways as many of their boy-band brethren have? Attend their final concert and find out!

 

CAST/CREW BIOS

 

 

 

 

 

Reviews

Steven Stanley of StageSceneLA raves "[D]irector [Kristin] Towers-Rowles proves herself a talent to be reckoned with, an 'Altar Boyz Unplugged' segment and a tip of the hat to Wicked's 'Defying Gravity' just a couple of Towers-Rowles innovations!"

Shari Barrett of Broadwayworld.com raves "Director Kristin Towers-Rowles has assembled the perfect, ultra high-energy cast to bring the Boyz to life onstage."

Joe Straw of Joe Straw #9 raves "Altar Boyz is a crowd pleaser and, on this particular night, the Christians were having the time of their lives." MORE REVIEWS

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AUDITIONS

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FAQ

Where are you located?
We currently are a company without a home. You can reach us at P.O. Box 61964, Los Angeles, CA 90064.

What time should I arrive at the theatre?
Generally speaking, it is best to arrive at the theatre roughly 15-30 minutes before your performance.

Does the theatre have wheelchair access?
Yes.

Can my child/baby attend the theatre?/Is the show appropriate for children?
It is Chromolume Theatre's policy that no babies in arms may be allowed to attend. Further, we do not permit children under the age of four (4) to attend. This is to ensure that all customers enjoy the show. Young children are admitted but are not encouraged to attend unless the parent is confident the child will not distract other members of the audience. Everyone must have a valid ticket and occupy a seat. Accompanying adults will be asked to remove any noisy children. Generally, Chromolume Theatre produced productions are appropriate for school age children, while visiting productions can vary in appropriateness. Regardless, you should probably check with the Box Office when you order your tickets whether the production you are attending is appropriate for your child.

Are your actors professional?
In most cases, yes. Most, if not all, of the actors who perform in our shows are members of Actors Equity Association, Screen Actors Guild and/or American Federation of Television and Radio Artists.

Do your musicals have live musicians or taped accompaniment?
All of Chromolume Theatre's produced musicals include a single piano, or a small orchestra, usually five pieces. We do not use taped accompaniment at any of our performances. Any visiting production may use taped accompaniment.

Whom do I contact to usher for one of your performances?
If you wish to usher for one of our performances, contact our House Manager.

How can I purchase tickets for one of your productions?
There are three ways to purchase tickets for Chromolume Theatre produced performances (please note that visiting productions' methods may vary):

  • Purchase them online through our secure server
  • Purchase them in person at the Box Office
  • Purchase them over the telephone by calling (323) 510-1651 x202

Where do I pick up my tickets?
You can pick them up at the Box Office on the date of your performance.

Where is the Box Office located?
The Box Office is located immediately as you enter the theatre, to your right. The Box Office is open one hour prior to performance.

When are auditions for your performances?
Audition dates and times vary depending on the production. You can browse our Audition Page to check out when an upcoming audition is occurring and what to prepare for said audition.

Do you do only do musicals?
Chromolume Theatre's production productions are not only musicals. Occasionally, we will produce a play or a play with music. Visiting productions can vary anywhere between performance art to fully staged musicals.

Where can I find rental information?
To rent our theatre or to find out more information, you can check our Rental Page or call us at (323) 510-1651.

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AUDITIONS

Chromolume Theatre does not currently have any auditions scheduled.

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AUDITIONS

Chromolume Theatre does not currently have any auditions scheduled.

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Cast/Crew Bios

Craig McEldowney, Matthew
Altar Boyz!

Craig is stoked to get to work with KTR and his Chromolooligans again-- he recently played Leaf in Kristin's production of The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, and played Ben in Chromolume's production of LOVE SONGS - A Musical last summer. He is an LA-based actor, songwriter, and musician. He recently completed a critically acclaimed run as Thomas in The Story of My Life at Coachella Valley Rep. Recent LA credits include I Love You, You're Perfect, Now Change at Crown City Theatre, LOVE SONGS - A Musical (world premiere) at the Attic, and ÆSOPERA in the Hollywood Fringe. Selected regional and tour credits include We Will Rock You (P Diddy - Las Vegas), Jesus Christ Superstar (Judas - Regional / European tour), Grease (Doody - US National Tour), Ragtime (Younger Brother - Regional). You may have seen him as a scumbag on TV on "Law & Order: SVU", "One Life to Live", "All My Children", or elsewhere in the zeitgeist. Craig is a proud graduate of the University of Michigan, and a member of AEA. You can find out more on twitter at @craigmceldowney and online at www.craigmc.org


Michael Marchak, Mark
Altar Boyz!

Originally from Rhode Island, Michael has a degree in theatre and a minor in chemistry from USC. This is Michael's first show with Chromolume Theatre. He was last seen on stage in San Diego Musical Theatre's production of White Christmas where he was in the dance ensemble and part of the quintet. Before that, Michael preformed in Sweeney Todd and in Legally Blonde (Aaron) at Moonlight Theatre. Other regional credits include: A Chorus Line (Mike/Mark), Sound of Music (3D Theatricals), The Real Love (Pasadena Civic Auditorium), Once Upon a Mattress (Cabrillo). Watch out for Bizaria, a short film he was the lead in as it hits film festivals all around. Michael is thrilled to return to his Catholic roots and spread the Word. Enjoy! "You've got talent. Don't give up."


Jason Chacon, Luke
Altar Boyz!

Jason is thrilled to be back working with Chromolume again! He most recently was seen in their production of Musical of Musicals: The Musical as Jitter. Other recent credits include Pinkalicious (Mr. Pinkerton) and A Christmas Carol (Scrooge). In addition to musical theater, Jason is also a comedian and improviser who can be seen around town on random nights at random times. He would like to thank his family for all their support and enthusiasm and all his friends for being so...friendly. You can find Jason on Facebook or follow him on twitter @mrjchacon


Joey AcunaJuan
Altar Boyz!

Joey Acuna has been blessed to be working consistently in the Los Angeles Theater scene in shows like West Side Story(Chino)-Hudson Theater, Headshots:The Stageplay(Troy:the high schooler)-Actor's Playpen, Chorus Line(Mike Costa)-Hollywood Fight Club, Sweet Charity-Knightsbridge, Cabaret-The Met, and plays a various array of funny characters in 30 Minute Musicals productions such as Home Alone:The Musical and currently Transformers:The Musical. Joey spent 3 years playing "Casey" the host of Playhouse Disney at Disneyland's California Adventure and has been in a few theater for Children tours such as: Dora the Explorer: Dora's Pirate Adventure-Nickelodeon, The Adventures of Jamie and Red the Reading Pirate-Kaiser Permanente's ETP, and several shows with Open Window Entertainment. This is his first show working at Chromolume Theatre and thanks them for giving him the opportunity to live out his long time dream of being in a pop-Boy Band! "As Juan would say 'Gracias!!!'" This has been an amazing experience for Joey and wants to thank all of you for coming out and sharing this with him!!


Tyler Vess, Abraham
Altar Boyz!

Tyler was born in San Diego, California. At a young age, his love for music inspired him to learn many instruments as well as write music. Music has always been there for him, through thick and thin, and he hopes his music will one day have the same affect. Tyler's most recent productions include: Bare: A Pop Opera (Matt), Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat (Joseph) and Songs for a New World (Man 1). This will be Tyler's first production with the Chromolume Theatre and he is very excited to be working with such an amazing director and cast.


Holland Noel, Matthew u/s
Altar Boyz!

Holland began his acting career at the age of 10 in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin. He has played key roles in many popular musicals/plays throughout his career such as Our Town (George), The Fantasticks (Matt), High School Musical (Troy), You're A Good Man, Charlie Brown (Charlie), A Christmas Story (Ralphie) and Seussical (Jojo). In addition to acting Holland has studied piano, voice, and dance. He would like to thank his friends and huge family back home for all their love and support . Enjoy the show!


Kyle Shepard, Mark u/s
Altar Boyz!

This is Kyle's first production with the Chromolume Theatre. He received his Bachelors Degree in Theatre with a concentration in Musical Theatre from Point Park University in Pittsburgh Pa. He has performed on many stages in the Pittsburgh Region. In Los Angeles, Kyle was part of the World Premiere Ecstasy: The Musical directed by Kay Cole and is part of the Original Cast Recording. He has been in national and international commercials, films, television and internet campaigns. Kyle would like to thank Kristin, Samantha, James, Lauren and the entire production for believing in him to play this part and casting him to fulfill a dream role. He would like to dedicate this performance to his Family for always loving and accepting him just the way he is, and to his guardian angel, Laura, who he knows wouldn't miss this performance for the world! "God doesn't make mistakes and he made me" ~Mark


Justin James, Luke u/s, Asst. Dance Captain
Altar Boyz!

Justin is thrilled to be to making his debut appearance with the Chromolume Theatre. He is also excited to be working with Director Kristin Towers-Rowles again. He has had the pleasure of sharing the stage with her previously in Kiss Me, Kate (Stagehand #3) and Seven Brides for Seven Brothers (Matt). Justin began performing in musicals in the ensemble of Urinetown at the Morgan-Wixson Theater, which won a 2010 StageSceneLa Award for Outstanding Musical Production. He most recently performed in SVCAC's production of Bare: A Pop Opera as Zach. Justin is beyond grateful for the love and support of his family and friends, especially his mother, for always encouraging him to pursue what makes him happy.


Charles F. Martinez, Juan u/s, Dance Captain
Altar Boyz!

Charles is happy to finally put to good use his past experience as a real life Catholic altar boy (9 yrs) for the role of Juan. Originally from Bay City, Texas, he relocated to Los Angeles after earning a B.A in Theatre and Dance from the University of Texas at Austin. As both an actor and dancer he has appeared in film, television, music videos, and of course, theatre. Some of his recent shows include Legally Blonde(KiKi), Les Miserables(Courfeyrac), and La Cage Aux Folles(Chantal). He has also danced professionally with the Sypher Elite and ACFCLA Dance Company. He wishes to thank the production team and his fellow Altar Boyz for helping to fulfill his lifelong dream of being in a boy band, even if it is a boy band for Christ. :-/ j/k Jesus, you know I love you! Thanks also to his family and friends for their constant love and support. You guys are the best! For more information visit www.charlesfmartinez.com


Charles Simmons, Abraham u/s
Altar Boyz!

Charles is excited to be making his first Chromolume Theatre appearance in Altar Boyz. This will be his first show since moving from Tacoma, Wa where he worked with the Dash Center for the Arts as a Director/Choreographer for the Performing Company Reality Check Juniors (RCJ), Tacoma Musical Playhouse, Seattle Theater Group, Broadway Center for the Performing Arts, and Harlequin Theater. His most recent shows include Jesus Christ Superstar (Simon) Dir. Linda Whitney, Dreamgirls (Curtis Taylor Jr.) Dir. Jimmy Shields, and Hairspray (Seaweed J.Stubbs) Dir. Jon Douglas Rake. He is currently dancing with the Hip Hop performing group Boogiezone Breed under the Direction of Elm Pizarro. Charles would like to thank his friends, family, and community for their never ending love and support on this new adventure.


Kristin Towers-Rowles, Director
Altar Boyz!

Kristin is very excited to be directing again with Chromolume. Kristin recently directed the runaway hit and Eddon Award Winning Musical of Musicals, the Musical for Chromolume Theatre. Other directing credits include: RENT, Oliver!, 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, Little Women, The Musical (Sustaining Sound/Co-Artistic Director). As an Actress: Breakthru Musical Theatre Performer of The Year 2011 (StageSceneLA) Training: AMDA (NYC) International/Nat.Tours include: Phantom of the Opera/Les Miserables in Concert (Christine/Cosette), The Mikado (Yum Yum), World Premiere National Tour of The Christmas Box (Angel). Recent LA/Regional: Kiss Me, Kate (Kate/Lilli +BroadwayWorld Best Actress Nom). Sunday in the Park with George (Dot/Marie *Best Actress "Scenie"), Victor/Victoria (Norma *Best Featured Actress "Scenie"), Once Upon A Mattress (Fred). BroadwayWorld Nominated Cabaret show, "A Lovely Lineage". (about growing up MGM Star, Kathryn Grayson's, Grand-Daughter) at Sterling's at The Federal/Mbar/Sun City. www.kristintowers-rowles.com


Richard Berent, Musical Director
Altar Boyz!

Richard is active in L.A. as musical director, pianist, teacher, and composer. He is on the music faculty at Academny of Music and Dramatic Arts (AMDA). His children's musical Goldilocks is currently running at Theater West. He is musical director for the annual REAF celebrity AIDS benefit in San Francisco. Recent musical director credits include The Secret Garden, Girl Crazy, and Into The Woods. He last worked with Chromolume Theatre last year in the critically acclaimed production of Musical of Musicals, the Musical, which was remounted in March of this year.


Samantha Marie, Choreographer
Altar Boyz!

Samantha graduated from Loyola Marymount University with a Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree, Dance Major, and Theater Arts Minor. Samantha grew up on the stage and began working in theater at 5 years old and has been a member as SAG since 1997. As a young actor she appeared in national commercials, TV shows, and lent her voice to animation. Her passion for performance grew in the Seattle area where she was on several dance companies including Westlake Performing Group, and Cruz Control. Samantha has danced in several music videos along with assisting choreographer Christina Woodard at the Edge in Hollywood and is an active member of the dance company Breed. As a stage manager, she has worked on The Crucible, The Club, In Love With Night, Theater and Dance Showcases, and Beats By Dre Conventions. She is currently the production manager of the dance department at Loyola Marymount University and the Assistant Theater Manager at Chromolume Theatre. She has recently choreographed Musical of Musicals, The Musical!, I Love You, You're Perfect, Now Change, The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, Pinkalicious, and is thrilled to have been able to work with such a wonderful and talented group of actors on Altar Boyz.


Daniel Ingram, Scenic design
Altar Boyz

Daniel has returned to the world of professional theatre after teaching high school drama for seven years. Daniel's most recent designs include the highly successful Disassembly (Theatre of Note), In The Next Room (The Lounge Theater), AND co-designing renovations for The Attic Theatre space itself. In addition to being Chromolume's Technical Director, Daniel has worked as a scenic carpenter and/or running crew for Musical Theatre West, A Noise Within, and When You Wish theatre companies this season. Daniel would like to thank James Esposito for his insights and contributions to the Altar Boyz set, and Lauren Peters for taking the lead on the dance-room gentrification.


Wes Jenkins, Costume Design
Altar Boyz!

Wes Holds an M.F.A. in Theatre with a concentration in Costume Design from Lindenwood University in St. Charles, MO. Costume design credits at Lindenwood include A Midsummer Night's Dream, You're a Good Man Charlie Brown, and The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee. B.F.A. in Design/Tech Theatre from Otterbein University in Westerville, OH. Costume design credits at Otterbein include While We Were Bowling, Miss Witherspoon, and Smokey Joe's Cafe. Professional Design credits include The Wiz, High School Musical, and Brigadoon for Music Theatre Louisville; Faust and Otello for Utah Festival Opera, and Edward Bond's Restoration for St. Louis Shakespeare. He was included in the summer 2012 issue of USITT's TD&T magazine for his thesis production of Midsummer Night's Dream. He currently works as a second-hand in the costume shop at LA Opera in downtown Los Angeles, California.


Craig Batory Lighting Design
Altar Boyz!

Craig is from Los Angeles and has been involved in technical production for over ten years. He is excited to be a part of the Altar Boyz cast and crew and he wishes to extend his gratitude to everyone who helped support the show and to you, the audience. Enjoy.


James Esposito, Sound design
Altar Boyz

James is currently the V.P. of Operations at Chromolume Theatre. Scenic design credits include all three incarnations of Do Lord Remember Me, Love Songs - A Musical and Musical of Musicals, the Musical for Chromolume Theatre. Sound design credits include Do Lord Remember Me, Musical of Musicals, the Musical, Secrets Every Smart Traveler Should Know, Merrily We Roll Along, Capsized Floatsam, Greek Tragedy and Strip, the latter of which he also directed. On stage, his credits include Company (Bobby), City of Angels (Munoz), Two Gentlemen of Verona (Thurio), Forever Plaid (Sparky), Fiddler on the Roof (Twice!), Cinderella and Chess just to name a few.


Lauren J. Peters Stage Manager
Altar Boyz!

Lauren J. Peters is so excited to be working with such amazing people on such a special project. Originally a performer, Lauren started out working in theater at the age of 3 and continuing in various capacities through the years, finding stage management her favorite place in the theater in high school, she has been working as a stage manager for 10 years around the Los Angeles area. She has worked on shows such as: Forever Plaid & Seven Brides for Seven Brothers in San Pedro at the Warner Grand Theatre for The RelevantStage theater company, where she met Kristin Towers-Rowles, and they started their friendship which has led her to have the wonderful experience of working with Kristin on 4 shows, Little Women at Stage 52 for Sustaining Sound Theatre Company, The Musical of Musicals, The Musical at The Attic Theatre for Chromolume Theatre, The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee at The El Portal Theatre in North Hollywood for Kelrik Productions return to Los Angeles. Serving on the Advisory Board for El Segundo's Broadway in The Park in 2009 working on The Sound of Music and in 2010 on The Music Man, Lauren feels like the luckiest girl in the world to be getting the opportunities she has been getting and being able to work with such amazing people over the years. Studying at El Camino College, Lauren will be graduating this May with her Associate of Arts degree in Social Behavior. Lauren is also the Assistant Technical Director for Chromolume Theatre. Continuing her resident Stage Manager position at Chromolume Theatre she is so excited to be working on Altar Boyz. Lauren would like to thank her friends for their continued support and for providing her with laughter and her mom, Nance for her continued support, love and encouragement in all of her adventures. Lauren hopes you all enjoy the show!


Alysha Bermudez Asst. Stage Manager
Altar Boyz!

Alysha is currently attending Los Angeles City College where she has received a certificate in Technical Theatre – Entertainment Technology. She has Stage Managed and operated the Sound Board on numerous productions at LACC Theater Academy. She recently did Sound design for In the Heights at Casa 0101.This is her first production at Chromolume Theatre and she is very excited to be part of this production.


Ken Werther Publicity
Altar Boyz!

Ken has been a staple in the Los Angeles performing arts community since 1982. Embassy Television, Lorimar Television; Center Theatre Group (Ahmanson and Kirk Douglas Theatres, Mark Taper Forum); Boneau/Bryan-Brown, Miramontez/Werther Company. Currently: The Whipping Man (West Coast Jewish Theatre), Shakespeare UnScripted (Impro Theatre), L.A. Deli (Marilyn Monroe Theatre), 2014 SoCal Dance Invitational (Ford Amphitheatre), The Yellow Boat (Coeurage Theatre Company), Blank Theatre Young Playwrights Festival, Brimmer Street Theatre Company, The Blank Theatre. Personalities: Erich Bergen, Daniel Tatar, Sean Galuszka, Sheena Metal (LATalkRadio.com), Brian Beacock, Matt Morillo, AJ Jones, Mack & Poppy. Web series: McCracken Live!. Producer: The Good Boy (2011) and All Your Hard Work (2012). Various benefit events. www.kenWerther.com.

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Reviews

 

Steven Stanley of StageSceneLA raves...

 

**WOW***

 

"[D]irector [Kristin] Towers-Rowles proves herself a talent to be reckoned with, an 'Altar Boyz Unplugged' segment and a tip of the hat to Wicked's 'Defying Gravity' just a couple of Towers-Rowles innovations."

 

"[C]horeographer Samantha Marie's original dance steps make the Boyz’ moves and grooves seem fresh and new."

 

"As for the Boyz themselves, they are a multi-talented bunch indeed, and particularly strong in the vocal department."

 

"[Craig] McEldowney's...quirky good looks, charismatic appeal, and topnotch vocals make the band leader yet another McEldowney crowd-pleaser."

 

"Hot-bodied charmer [Michael] Marchak is not only one of the sexiest Marks ever, his mix of flamboyance and sincerity make the group's flamingest member its most adorable. As for Mark’s 11th hour 'Epiphany,' Marchak sells it like nobody’s business."

 

[Joey] Acuna's Juan earned more laughs, particularly in a sequence that has the Tijuana-born boy bander attempting to off himself in more ways than one."

 

"Richard Berent gets top marks for his musical direction, and for conducting and playing keyboards in the live three-piece band"

 

"The audience['s] cheers [are] inspired by its terrific cast are genuine and well-deserved. I for one am thrilled that the Altar Boyz are back in town."

 

 

Shari Barrett of Broadwayworld.com raves...

 

"Director Kristin Towers-Rowles has assembled the perfect, ultra high-energy cast to bring the Boyz to life onstage"

 

"It is Michael Marchak's out and proud Mark who steals the show whenever he is featured. His graceful movements are a pleasure to behold, and his unfettered pride in who he is will grab you and never let you forget he is a strong man who knows what he wants."

 

"Truly these are the ALTAR BOYZ, and they will alter your mind to the possibility that a big Broadway musical can be fully produced on a small stage with nothing lost in the translation thanks to [Kristin] Tower-Rowles and [Samantha] Whidby for their mutual vision and magic touch."

 

Lorenzo Marchessi of The Geek Authority raves...

 

"Chromolume Theatre, has a hysterical, fast tempo'd, fun and exciting musical experience with a somewhat religious satirical twist called "Altar Boyz."

 

"This is yet another cleverly designed, precisely staged and cohesive overall direction of a musical by Kristin Towers-Rowles."

 

"This show has so much rhythm, style, flare and is so funny that no matter what religion or non-religion you are, you'll find something hysterical to relate to throughout."

 

"It's a comical romp of great personalities and historical and biblical references that makes this show a pure delight to watch."

 

"The timely and rhythmic choreography by Samantha Marie is uniquely designed to accommodate all the religious icons and gestures that the dancing is just as much fun to watch as the performers themselves!"

 

"If you want see a dynamic performer with an amazing voice, comic timing and some sharp acting chops, Craig [McElkdowney's] your man."

 

"Joey [Acuna] has the moves for the grooves and delivers some amazing funny moments as he not only helps his fellow partners, but includes the audience in his desires."

 

"The director Kristin knew just how to focus these guys and their strengths and talents and made for an amazingly fun and funny evening of music and very exciting characters.

 

"These performers have great chemistry and energy and play off each other very well on stage. 'Altar Boyz' is a fresh satirical look and somewhat touching musical experience that will have you clapping, tapping, singing along and, as an audience member, you may be the focus of a intervention!"

 

 

Joe Straw of Joe Straw #9 raves...

 

"Altar Boyz is a crowd pleaser and, on this particular night, the Christians were having the time of their lives, as are the others who ventured out to see this nocturnal boy band fest. Anyone who enjoys a little religion, with his or her entertainment, will enjoy the boyz in this show."

 

"Kristin Towers-Rowles, the director, does a tremendous job defining the objectives of the characters so the audience gets a clear understanding of this musical endeavor."

 

"The choreography by Samantha Marie is fun and keeps thing moving in a delightful direction."