Rockwell Table & Stage Presents The Unauthorized Musical Parody of…“A League of Their Own”

Posted On 30 Jul 2019

Tag: A League Of Their Own, All Access, All Access Music, All Access Music Group, Concert Review, Emma Hunton, Kate Pazakis, Los Angeles, Rockwell Table And Stage, UMPO

This past weekend (July 26 – 28) was the grand opening of the UMPO (Unauthorized Musical Parody Of) A League Of Their Own. (Buy tickets here) For about two hours, the cast sings and acts their way through the 1992 beloved movie. Of course, in true UMPO fashion, the story is spun a little differently and is told through these particular creators eyes.

This show runs every Thursday, Friday and Saturday night at 8pm and Sundays at noon, until September 1st. And again, every Friday and Saturday night at 8pm and Sundays at noon, September 6th to September 29th.

Photo by Bryan Carpender

The parody stays in true UMPO Series fashion, taking its inspiration directly from the film. Two sisters, Kit Keller and Dottie Hinson, join the first female professional baseball league and struggle to help it succeed amidst their own growing rivalry. This story serves as a historical snapshot, reminding the audience of the social impacts of World War II when most young males were off fighting in the war. While remaining historically relevant, this performance and timeless music is about self growth with an enticing, modern fem-pro twist.

UMPO: A League of Their Own incorporates an impressive roster of talent in their production, including Broadway actress and star in **FreeForm’s Good Trouble Emma Hunton as director. UMPO executive producer and writer Kate Pazakis** says, “I am beyond thrilled to have Emma Hunton as our esteemed director.” Adding, “I have no doubt audiences will be fully engaged and intrigued by the unique way the parody tells this beloved story.”

All Access was at their press night recently and was able to see an incredible cast made up of Natalie Masini playing Dottie, Amanda Kruger playing Kit, Chris Fore playing Jimmy Dugan, Jeffrey Landman as Jon Lovitz, Nohely Quiroz as Betty Spaghetti, Gina D’Acciaro as Marla Hooch, Molly Stelliens play Doris and Katie Powers play Mae.

Photo by Bryan Carpender

Some of the songs heard during this show are “Hazy Shade of Winter” by The Bangles, “Girls Just Wanna Have Fun” by Cyndi Lauper, “Batter Up” from “A League of Their Own,” “Before He Cheats” by Carrie Underwood, Madonna’s “Like a Prayer” and “Like a Virgin”, “Old Time Rock And Roll” by Bob Seger and many others.

Rockwell’s UMPO Series has become a mainstay of Los Angeles dinner theater; it’s as addicting as it is thought provoking. Every show stays culturally relevant with a cast and crew that includes stunning and applaudable representation, and UMPO: A League of Their Own is no exception. According to Hunton, “the show encompasses diverse cast members and includes people of all shapes, sizes, ethnicities and backgrounds.” The exceptional talents of the cast and crew shine through in each performance and prove the reason for UMPO Series’ continued success.

Rockwell Table & Stage is located in Los Feliz at 1714 N. Vermont Ave, Los Angeles. Tickets are on sale now for this must-see musical parody at https://rockwell-la.com/shows/

About the Author

Leah Brungardt (recently married) joined All Access Music Group in August 2011 and has been enjoying getting to know a new side of the music industry ever since. Having worked to promote radio stations in the past, seeing what makes a successful radio hit has been a thrill. As a lover of all genres of music, working at All Access Music Group is a perfect fit for Leah, and she loves learning about up and coming musicians as well. Most of her friends have come to rely on her for new music. Leah grew up overseas attending American international schools and attended The University of Arizona, where she earned a BA in Music Management. She roots for the Wildcats every chance she gets. Leah has been able to work at a variety of music-related jobs including several internships at small independent labels, ClearChannel Radio and Journal Broadcasting Group. She also spent time working retail at a store that specializes in vinyl, which was a lot of fun for her. Her favorite movie is Empire Records, so that makes perfect sense.