By Karen Nowosad
originally published: 04/06/2024
A 2008 view of a section of East Carson Street, Pittsburgh, PA – File is licensed in Creative Commons
The World Premiere of a new musical, East Carson Street, will open the new Bell Theater in Holmdel, NJ. The play has music by Joe Grushecky with a book by Jonathan Rosenberg.
Long regarded as one of rock & roll’s most talented singer-songwriters, Joe Grushecky grew up in Pittsburgh, PA. With his band Iron City Houserockers, he produced several albums which received rave reviews. In 1995, Joe began his collaboration with Bruce Springsteen. In 2009, he recorded the album “East Carson Street” with the current incarnation of the Houserockers. It includes a duet with Bruce Springsteen on “Another Thin Line” which the two co-wrote.
East Carson Street is About Three Generations of a Pittsburgh Family
Daniel Kutner directs this show which follows the story of three generations of a Pittsburgh family over a period of four decades. It goes back to the 1980s when the city experienced the demise of the steel and coal industries. As the economy fell apart, residents had to find new ways to support themselves. Families were torn apart as they sought work opportunities elsewhere. Those who remained had to deal with the rising levels of crime and substance abuse.
The musical eventually moves to the 2020s and shows a new Pittsburgh; one which focuses on innovation, medicine, and technology. The city also reclaims its spot as one of America’s great cities.
East Carson Street stars Broadway’s Constantine Maroulis (Rock of Ages, Jekyll and Hyde) and Teal Wicks (Wicked, Jekyll and Hyde).
Notes about the show say this: “Set to Grushecky’s iconic music of the era, East Carson Street is a true testament to the greatness of the American people.”
Bell Theater
East Carson Street is the first entertainment offering at the new Bell Theater. It is located in the Bell Works complex, 101 Crawfords Corner Road, Holmdel, NJ. Bell Theater connects with Axelrod Performing Arts Center based in Deal, NJ.
Posted on the website of Bell Theater is their mission statement: “to provide exceptional cultural programming to the community in a state-of-the-art facility. We believe in the transformative power of the arts and are committed to making it accessible to all.”
Wheelchair access and assistive listening devices are available. A range of amenities including a cafe and bar will also be available.
Tickets and More Information
Performances for East Carson Street begin on May 3, 2024. The show runs for nine performances with the following schedule: May 3 (8PM), May 4 (2PM & 8PM) May 5 (3PM), May 9 (7PM), May 10 (7PM) May 11 (2PM & 8PM) May 12 (3PM).
To purchase tickets or for more information, visit the Axelrod Performing Arts Center website and select Bell Theater from the menu. Or, go directly to the Bell Theater website and click on Events.
About the author:
Let's Go to the Theater helps people learn more about about live theater and develop appreciation for this art form. Karen M. Nowosad is the founder of the site. The enjoyment Karen gets from going to the theater is something she wants to share with others.
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