Kevin Yungman rehearsing on stage.
Kevin Yungman, a 16-year-old student at Cypress Bay Senior High in Weston, Florida, won audiences over at Cirque Dreams Jungle Fantasy’s opening night performance at the Arsht Center on May 12.
Yungman, originally from Argentina, auditioned at Bloomingdale’s for a chance to “Run Away with Cirque Dreams” and perform a feature role in the Miami engagement at the Arsht Center.
I attended the May 12 opening night performance and was mesmerized by the colorful set, expertly-performed feats of strength, amazing acrobatic and fun musical numbers. The house was packed by the young and old, who frequently broke into applause at the sight of the performers’ amazing and graceful moves. It was a wondrous spectacle that had the audience at the edge of their seats.
Yungman was charming and blended right in with the rest of the gifted cast. The “Singing Tree” jungle character was designed and developed for Yungman. He performed two musical numbers in the show, incorporating his vocal abilities and acting skills. This marked the first bilingual musical number ever added to the show’s score.
“This talented young man has inspired us to create what will be one of the most memorable show additions since the beginning this national contest in September 2008” said Broadway producer Neil Goldberg in a statement.
Yungman was told he had won the role while in gym class at his school. Goldberg, showed up at his school with cameras in tow. Local media crews were also there to document the event.
I was already familiar with Yungman’s work and was fully expecting to keep seeing him perform at local theatres. He won the lead role of Tony in Roxy Theatre Group’s West Side Story, which played from March 27 though April 5, 2009. Roxy Theatre Group, a non-profit children’s performing arts center, opened its casting call to local students. Over 75 students from 11 to 17, had the opportunity to participate in Roxy’s ambitious production of West Side Story.
I attended the opening night performance on March 27 of Roxy Theatre Group’s West Side Story and was particularly impressed by Yungman’s level of maturity in his singing and acting. His goal is to work in Broadway and this role was a great chance to work on this acting and singing skills.
Yungman was appreciative of the opportunity at playing Tony. “The Roxy Theatre Group treats me like family, even though they have only known me for a short time. They work with me for countless hours to help me with the role of Tony, and to make the show a success,” said Yungman. You may want to keep on eye on this kid. He’s going places.
For more info: Don’t miss your chance to see the colorful wonderland of Cirque Dreams Jungle Fantasy, presented by RRA Broadway Across America, and playing the Arsht Center through May 17. Tickets start at $25 and are on sale at the Arsht Center box office 305-949-6722, online at www.arshtcenter.org or through ticketmaster at 1-800-982-2787 or at www.ticketmaster.com. Learn more about Kevin Yungman at his Website.
Comments