The "Altar Boyz" are Rocking the Opera House

It’s the last night of the ”Raise the Praise” tour for Matthew, Mark, Luke, Juan, and Abraham, the five members of the fictitious Christian boys band in the off Broadway musical ”Altar Boyz.” The group is used to the Ohio bingo-hall-and-pancake-breakfast circuit, but for the next two weekends they are coming to the Opera House in Havre de Grace courtesy of the Tidewater Players.

Half musical theater, half pop concert, ”Altar Boyz” is the winner of the 2005 Outer Critics Circle Award for Outstanding Off-Broadway Musical and the 2006 and 2007 Broadway.com Audience Favorite Awards. The show is presented as a real time concert, but as the group serenades it’s way from rousing number to rousing number they explore the inner strengths and demons of each of the members, as well as the burdened souls in the audience. With exciting choreography reminiscent of classic boy bands like ’N Sync and the Backstreet Boys, and musical numbers that will make you want to get up and dance, ”Altar Boyz” is sure to be a fun night out for everyone.

The ”Altar Boyz” are Josh Starkey, Emil Brandau, Austin Barnes, Brady Fritz and Brett Messiora, with WXCY’s Tyler Daniel portraying the Voice of G.O.D. The show is directed by Laurie Starkey, choreographed by Elise Starkey and musically directed by Stephanie Cvach. There are six performances over the next two weekends: February 13 and 14 at 8:00, the 15th at 3:00, the 20th and 21st at 8:00 with the closing show on the 22nd at 3:00. All shows are at the Havre de Grace Opera House, 121 N. Union Avenue, and tickets are $18.00. You can purchase advance tickets online at www.tidewaterplayers.com or call 410-939-TIDE for more information.