Category: Music Theater

The Voice of Plymouth Rock

On December 18, 1620, everything changed for an ordinary rock when what started out as “A Speck In The Distance” from the shore became the ship Mayflower. 1620-2020 is a long period of time. During that time a lot happened to Plymouth Rock. Diane Finn’s “The Secrets of Plymouth Rock,” tells the story of what happened from 1620-1920.

In 1920 there was the “Voice Of Plymouth Rock” at the 300th Anniversary of the Landing of the Mayflower in Plymouth. 100 years later, the rock’s voice is heard once again. Only this time it sounds like 28 Plymouth elementary school students singing their hearts out. The album is coming out in October. We may even have a CD release party at the Mayflower Society House in the early Fall. Stay tuned!

1620-2020

Pilgrim Songs
Rockin’ The Secrets of Plymouth Rock – The Karaoke Movie

 

 

With the 400th Anniversary of the Landing of the Pilgrims right around the corner “Rockin’ The Secrets of Plymouth Rock” is the perfect way for elementary students around the US to celebrate along with the students of Plymouth Massachusetts. The themes of the 400th celebration are innovation, exploration, self-governance, religious expression, immigration, and thanksgiving. “The Secrets of Plymouth Rock” and “Rockin’ The Secrets of Plymouth Rock Play together touch upon each theme, teaching Early American history through music.

 

 

Hamilton At The Boston Opera House

Hamilton Boston Opera House
L-R Candido Bretto, Michelle Booth, Erica Howland Ruska, Karen Howland


Plymouth Rock News you can use. Jefferson Elementary School Rockland music teacher Michelle Booth said, “Candido, I think you need to see Hamilton because of what you’re doing with “The Secrets of Plymouth Rock.” The night of October 3, 2018 was magical. Michelle introduced me to the music, lyrics and all that is the phenomenon called “Hamilton”. The orchestra was tight, the dancing and lighting was spectacular and the cast especially Austin Scott, Hannah Cruz and Nicholas Christopher was riveting. The Secrets of Plymouth Rock just found some new inspiration. Thanks Michelle!

blank
Candido Bretto and Hamilton conductor Andre Cerullo

I’m a late comer to the Hamilton phenomenon. As I sat and listened I was amazed with how much work it takes to put on Hamilton. I can’t even imagine all of the logistics. The choreography alone was fascinating. When you add in the mountain of lyrics and the orchestral arrangement it’s mind-boggling. I can’t believe this all came from one person’s head, Lin Manuel Miranda. I hope to meet him someday. Hamilton taught me that early American history can be fun and interesting at the same time. It just takes the right person with the vision, talent and energy and the right team all working together to see it through from start to finish.

Hamilton's Orchestra Pit

If I closed my eyes it was like I was listening to a studio album. The musicians performed with accuracy and lots of soul. Here’s a quick shot of the orchestra pit after the show.

“There’s a million things I haven’t done but just you wait, just you wait.
– Alexander Hamilton