Broadway Loves Casita Linda, San Miguel returns the feeling
By Mark Bilker; Photos by Arman G. Alvarado

Months of rehearsal, most in studios in the shadow of Broadway itself, culminated in thunderous standing ovations from sold out audiences delighted with the performances of the young Broadway troupe who came to San Miguel two weeks ago on behalf of Casita Linda.

Broadway Loves Casita Linda, the music and dance revue staged by five Broadway actors with the assistance of three of San Miguel’s own multi-talented musicians together with the troupe’s New York-based accompanist, resulted both in thrilled audiences and thousands of dollars raised for Casita Linda’s wonderful work.

Teatro Angela Peralta quite literally reverberated with the Sound of Music along with tunes and dances from more than 16 other Broadway hits including Sweet Charity, Once On This Island, Funny Girl, Caberet, Guys and Dolls, West Side Story and Cape Man, during the two 80-minute performances on August 19 and 20.

Directed by troupe member Colin Cunliffe, the wonderful cast included Kathryn Mowat Murphy, Ben Cameron, Austin Lesch and Stephanie Umoh. Steve O’Connor, Rick Shlosser and Doug Robinson provided musical accompaniment, along with the able assistance of the troupe’s musical director Elizabeth Nantais.

Using volunteers from the San Miguel community, visiting internationals, paid Mexican skilled laborers and future homeowners, Casita Linda builds for impoverished families vaulted roof adobe block houses that each include a loft for family sleeping quarters.

You can learn more about Casita Linda through its website: www.casitalinda.org. 

Casita Linda offers special thanks to Tom Frazee, Luis de Garay, Allan Gross, Tatiana Gómez and Casa Misha’s Edward George and Richard Samuel for their incredible behind the scenes efforts.