The Phoenix Theatre Company Presents “Forbidden Broadway” – A Love Letter to Broadway, Inked in Irreverence

(April 1, 2025 – PHOENIX) — The Phoenix Theatre Company, Arizona’s largest producing regional theatre, continues its tradition of presenting bold, high-caliber productions with the hilarious and sharp-witted musical revue Forbidden Broadway, running from April 23 through June 22, 2025, in the Judith Hardes Theatre.

Directed by and starring William Selby—who brings his expert comedic touch to the show for the 21st time—this cheeky, high-octane satire skewers beloved musical theatre tropes and iconic shows with equal parts reverence and irreverence. 

“Forbidden Broadway’ is a great escape from anything that may be troubling you. You’ll find those worries will wash away in tears of laughter,” says Selby. “Gerard Alessandrini‘s Tony winning lyrics, the highly amusing costumes and the never ending fun will make you feel as if you’ve seen countless Broadway shows, only through our merry, mischievous lens!”

A favorite among theatre aficionados, Forbidden Broadway features biting parodies of Broadway’s biggest hits—from the dramatic belts of Les Misérables to the spellbinding spectacle of Wicked. Nothing is sacred, and that’s what makes it so fun.

The cast features the powerhouse comedic talents of Lucas Coatney-Murietta* (May 27 through closing), Breona Conrad*, Rachel Policar*, William Selby*, and Seth Tucker* (April 23–May 25), delivering rapid-fire impressions and powerhouse vocals that leave audiences howling. The swing/understudy cast includes Katie Frederick, Ben Massouras, and Teddy Ladley.

This vaudeville-style romp isn’t just a roast—it’s a love letter, filled with affection for the theatre’s grandeur, quirks, and timeless appeal. Whether you’re a Broadway buff or a casual fan, Forbidden Broadway is a hilarious reminder that sometimes, the best way to honor what you love… is to laugh at it.

*Denotes members of Actors’ Equity Association, the union of professional actors and stage managers in the United States.

Details 

Dates: April 23 – June 22, 2025 

Location: The Phoenix Theatre Company – Judith Hardes Theatre 

Tickets: Available now at www.PhoenixTheatre.com or by calling the box office at (602) 254-2151.  

ASL/Audio Describe Night

Audio Description and American Sign Language Interpretation are available for each production. ASL/Audio Describe Night for Forbidden Broadway is Thursday, May 15, 2025, at 7:30 PM.

ABOUT THE PHOENIX THEATRE COMPANY

The Phoenix Theatre Company is not only the largest professional regional theatre company in the state, with over 600 performances each year on multiple stages, but it’s also the first arts organization in Arizona and a founding member of the Central Arts District. Committed to advancing the performing arts in the Valley, The Phoenix Theatre Company’s mission is to create exceptional theatrical experiences that inspire hope and understanding. For more information about our upcoming shows, outreach programs, and more, visit www.phoenixtheatre.com.

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