On Stage: For Segal, music led to recovery and soothing others with jazz

By Denny Dyroff, Entertainment Editor, The Times Alan Segal Alan Segal had a life-changing event several years ago. Prior to the event, he had a positive effect on people financially – helping them navigate the world of personal finances. When Segal resumed activity after the event, he had a positive effect on people spiritually – not with religious topics but rather with soul-soothing music. Segal...

On Stage: Cirque Dream Holidaze at the Merriam

By Denny Dyroff, Entertainment Editor, The Times Cirque Dream Holidaze “Cirque Dream Holidaze” is what you get if you pair the magic of a circus performance with the excitement of a holiday production. From 26-29, “Cirque Dream Holidaze” will visit the area for an eight-show run at the Merriam Theater as part of the Kimmel Center’s Broadway Philadelphia series (250 South Broad Street, Philadelphia,...

On Stage: Another Wainwright makes her mark

By Denny Dyroff, Entertainment Editor, The Times Sloan Wainwright In the world of American singer/songwriters, there are a few families that stand out – especially the Taylors and the Wainwrights. The Taylor clan features a number of top-selling international artists with James Taylor, Carly Simon, Sally Taylor, Livingston Taylor, Kate Taylor and Ben Taylor filling a two-generation roster. ...

On Stage: Ricci and Appleton bring no-holds bar sound to Sellersville

By Denny Dyroff, Entertainment Editor, The Times Jason Ricci and JJ Appleton What do you get when you pair a talented singer/songwriter/guitarist from New York City and a kickass harmonica player and singer from the South? You get an act billed as Jason Ricci and JJ Appleton. The two veteran musicians will bring their no-holds-barred sound to the Sellersville Theater (24 West Temple Avenue, Sellersville,...

On Stage: Nothing like The Nutcracker to make it feel like Christmas

By Denny Dyroff, Staff Writer, The Times The Nutcracker by the Pennsylvania Ballet. The Pennsylvania Ballet’s annual production of “George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker” is one of the most cherished—and longest running—family holiday traditions for families in the region. For many, a visit to Philadelphia to enjoy the lavish presentation by the world-famous Pennsylvania Ballet is a integral...