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| - First, I must state that boom towns such as Phoenix never had the opportunity to gradually develop multiple facets common in all American cities as the population swelled over the years, and since the 1990s efforts to expand its dining scene, nightlife, business presence and more have begun sprouting new names across the Valley of the Sun. Regarding cultural amenities, Nearly Naked Theatre is a gem in a still-under-development city.
Nearly Naked is an excellent theater group which has been around for just over a decade. Though its name insinuates nudity on stage, most plays they perform are fully clothed. However, never say never, as some actors/actresses will be on stage fully nude. That being said, they don't alter the text of plays, don't censor and don't allow business sponsors to make any suggestions. They put on an excellent "Rocky Horror Show" last year, do an annual Christmas show entitled "Times Square Angel", a dark comedy "Killer Joe" and the final show of this 2008/2009 season "Blood Brothers." The actors really get into their roles and do a great job on stage. Every show I've seen runs smoothly without a malfunction, forgotten line or otherwise. They have a Wonderful 100 program which comes with added benefits. If your primary concern is finances, then the Wonderful 100 is not an economical option. However, if you enjoy going to the theater and wish to support this group (as I do) then it is a great option, as it is extra revenue for them to keep shows coming and ensure Phoenix has another option in its cultural life. In addition to preserving this troupe, Wonderful 100 members are given advance notice of upcoming shows and are given exclusive privileges the general audience is not. They have recently acquired a beer and wine license, and now serve light drinks before, during and after the show. If you are pleased with performances, cast and crew members meet outside for a "meet and greet" with the audience. The shows are predominantly at the Little Theater of the Phoenix Theater complex on the east wing of the Phoenix Art Museum and tickets are available through their website or by calling the Box Office at the museum. As of now, June 2009, the group is finalizing its cuttent season and will begin the next season in August. The 2009/2010 season offers "Rent", "Little Dog Laughed", "Phaedra", "Times Square Angel" and "Evil Dead: The Musical" amongst others.
On a personal note, I would love to see them put on "Hedwig and the Angry Inch" and the entirety of "Angels in America" one season, though the latter is typically broken up into two running shows per season as it runs over seven hours. However, I cannot write any real complaints about the production, cast or any aspect of Nearly Naked, as I try to go for every show per season and always leave happy.
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