The New York Times hailed, “As an actress, singer, comedienne, and all-around warming presence, Bernadette Peters has no peer in the musical theatre right now.” The illustrious Tony Award winner— who has dazzled audiences and critics with her captivating performances on television, theater and concert stages, and with her recordings— will open the 2008-2009 season at the Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts (CCPA) on Saturday, August 16, at 8 p.m.
One of today’s most sought-after actresses, Bernadette Peters began entertaining audiences at the age of three with television appearances on Juvenile Jury and the game show Name That Tune. In 1967, she made her Broadway debut in Johnny No-Trump, launching an impressive career that boasts a multitude of honors, including seven Tony Award nominations and two wins for her show-stopping performances in the musicals Song & Dance and Annie Get Your Gun.
Peters’ portrayal of sharpshooter Annie Oakley in Annie Get Your Gun mesmerized audiences and charmed critics, with The Washington Post citing her powerful singing and proclaiming: “If America designated certain of its artists as national living treasures, Bernadette Peters could certainly be one. She just awes you with her lyrical grace and genius for phrasing.” The role won Peters a Drama Desk Award and an Outer Critics Circle Award, and her contribution on the recording led to a Grammy for “Best Musical Show Album.”
Peters’ electrifying performances in two Tony-nominated shows— Stephen Sondheim’s Pulitzer prize-winning Sunday in the Park With George and Sam Mendes’ critically acclaimed revival of Gypsy— also culminated in Grammy Awards for the cast-recorded albums. She has received numerous honors for her roles in George M!, Into the Woods, and the Off-Broadway musical success Dames at Sea.
While best known for her stage work, Peters has also cemented her reputation on television, garnering Emmy nominations for guest appearances on the comedy series Ally McBeal, The Muppet Show, and the children’s special program Bobbie’s Girl. Her unwavering appeal with fans and critics also is evident on the big screen. In 1982, the Hollywood Foreign Press Association awarded the versatile performer a “Best Actress” Golden Globe for her memorable work in the romantic drama Pennies From Heaven, starring Steve Martin, who was also her costar in the rags-to-riches-to-rags comedy The Jerk. Peters’ other big-screen credits include a Golden Globe-nominated role in Silent Movie, starring Mel Brooks; The Longest Yard with Burt Reynolds; Pink Cadillac with Clint Eastwood; Impromptu with Hugh Grant and Mandy Patinkin; and It Runs in the Family with Kirk Douglas and Michael Douglas.
Aside from her acting credits, Peters is renowned in the music industry for her exquisite and soaring vocals. The singer’s recordings have been embraced with wide enthusiasm and critical acclaim.
Tickets can be purchased at the CCPA ticket office or by calling (562) 467-8818. Prices range from $85 to $47.50. The $85 and $75 tickets are sold out. For tickets or more information, call (562) 467-8818 or visit to www.cerritoscenter.com.
