Molloy's Madison Theater Hosts Broadway's 'From My Hometown'

Since its Madison Theater in November, the college has attracted A-list acts to perform and entertain at the 550-seat venue. This Thursday will be no different, as the $15 million theater will host the once-on-Broadway musical from Lee Summers, "From My Hometown" — a musical centered around three singers who leave their homes with the hopes of singing at Harlem's famed Apollo Theater.

Revolving around the music of Motown and R&B, the show features American Idol Season 9 finalist Todrick Hall and recent X-Factor contestant Matthew Johnson. The musical opens on Feb. 2.

Johnson and Hall agreed that it wasn't hard to embrace their roles in the musical because they both know the struggles that comes with chasing one's dream. "We're living what the musical talks about," Johnson said. "We left our homes to pursue our dreams. We were both eliminated (on reality TV) in front of the American public. We know what it's like to have your dream ripped from under your feet."

Hall said that even though much of the musical's songs are from the Motown era, it's a show that all families can enjoy. "This show is not only cool, but it's entertaining," he said. "Any family can equally appreciate the show."

Jonathan Butler-Duplessis, who plays one of the three singers searching for stardom in the musical, said that for those who enjoy the Motown era, "From My Hometown" will give new life to the music you love. "It breathes life into the music you grew up on," he said. "You see your music reborn."

Kevin Ramsey, the musical's director, said the musical's central theme is unity and how music brings people together. "The show is about how strangers can meet and end up connected," Ramsey said. "Regardless of ethnicity, music is the glue that binds us. The songs are timeless and will touch your soul."

The musical is running from Feb. 2 to Feb. 5 and tickets are $25. Box office hours are Monday to Saturday from noon to 4 p.m. or to purchase tickets call 516-678-5000 ext. 7715.