Ambler’s Act II Playhouse, as promoted by the Valley Forge Tourism & Convention Board, announces a musical cabaret for the holiday season, Cole for Your Stocking. It’s a collection of Cole Porter standards, displaying the composer-songwriter’s witty lyrics, written for both the Broadway stage and Hollywood film studios.

The production is a world premiere, debuting at Act II Playhouse on Dec. 6 and running until Jan. 1.

In what Act II is calling a “fizzy, frothy dry martini of a holiday revenue,” Cole for Your Stocking promises to be a swanky, jazzy evening of Porter favorites and standards, including:

• “You’re the Top”
• “Night and Day”
• “Friendship”

Act II Artistic Director Tony Braithwaite said, “The catchy tunes of Cole Porter are all enjoyable earworms. They recall an era, and style of music that provide an escape into the golden age of entertainment.”

The cabaret will feature a variety of Porter’s hits; from his sweetest ballads to his liveliest toe-tappers and will feature colorful comedic commentary linking the songs.

Porter is an icon of American theatre and musical history whose songs defined the 1930s. He was also the creator of such beloved musicals as Anything Goes and Kiss Me Kate.

“It’s the perfect blend of spice for your holiday hankering,” said Braithwaite.

The cast of the production includes many familiar faces to the Act II stage:

• Michael Indeglio (I Love You, You’re Perfect…Now Change)
• Zach Chiero (Kiss Me Kate)
• Renee McFillin (Really Good Tidings)

Dan Matarazzo will provide musical accompaniment and is the production’s Musical Director.

Cole for Your Stocking runs Dec. 6 to Jan. 1.

Ticket prices start at $32 and are available online or by phone at 215.654.0200.

_____

Considering how long ago Cole Porter’s song-writing career was at its height, modern audiences may not know who he is.
This PBS News Hour report is a good primer on his importance and legacy.