Playing now through November 27 at BB’s Stage Door Canteen at the National WWII Museum, enjoy the delightful and well-sung musical story of Marilyn Monroe, called Pictures of Marilyn. The show follows the famous starlet from her life as just an ordinary girl working in a factory during WWII, to becoming one of the best-loved icons of all time, and all the triumphs and challenges in between. Despite the fact that Marilyn made a name and a career for herself in her own lifetime—even starting her own film production company—and still maintains ongoing fame even today, she constantly battled with emotional and relationship issues. She also struggled in a male-dominated society in post-WWII America that simply refused to take her seriously. Marilyn found herself being criticized by such biting remarks as “Directing Marilyn Monroe is like directing Lassie,” or being described as having “breasts of granite and a mind of gruyere cheese.” The show, which was written specifically for the museum, keeps the audience engaged with just the right mix of entertaining and informative, of musical and biography.
Courtney Boe skillfully portrays Marilyn, with a voice to rival the real deal. The rest of the cast is also quite talented and includes impressive performances by such gifted entertainers as Edward Simon as Joe Dimaggio, Kevin Rothlisberger as Arthur Miller, Seth Lieber as Ray Anthony, and Caroline Fourmy in the role of Natasha Lytess, and whose spot-on Russian accent is definitely worth mentioning.
It’s also a nice touch that any WWII veterans who might be in the audience are acknowledged and thanked before the start of every show. We had one vet among us, aged 95, and Boe even seemed to sing in his direction during several of her musical numbers.
Next to the fine entertainment, another highlight is the food. Though guests have the option to attend the show only without eating, it’s that much better as dinner theater (or brunch), with a meal to start off and the show following immediately after. The Stage Door Canteen offers both a dinner and a brunch seating option, with three-course menus by Executive Chef Brooke Foster. Brunch includes a choice of Sweet Potato Hash or Cherries Jubilee French Toast, while dinner is either Grilled Pork Loin or Orange Glazed Salmon. Both meals come with a Beet Salad starter and a decadent Caramel Apple Cheesecake for dessert.
Everyone loves Marilyn, and everyone will love this show. Whether you come for the food, the musical entertainment or to learn something about one of the most beloved female entertainers in history, Pictures of Marilyn is not to be missed.
For more information or to purchase tickets, click HERE.
BB’s Stage Door Canteen in The American Sector restaurant, The National WWII Museum, 945 Magazine Street, 504-528-1944.
