Award-winning Pantochino Productions Inc., a not-for-profit, professional theatre company in Milford will reprise it’s popular musical, “Noni Cimino’s Kitchen” opening Friday, October 11 at the Milford Arts Council, THE MAC on Railroad Avenue in downtown Milford.
Inspired by memories of growing up in a large Italian-American family, the musical offers a slice of life into the Cimino family and its matriarch, simply called “Noni” (derived from the Italian word for grandmother). When one of her delicious recipes gains national attention, her big, boisterous family—children, grandchildren, neighbors —bubble with excitement and emotion. Bert Bernardi has written the book and lyrics with Justin Rugg composing the original score. The show debuted in 2017 and played to sold out audiences.
“It’s about the loves, joys, ups and downs of being part of a tight knit family,” said Bernardi. “‘Noni’ represents everyone’s grandmother—sweet, proud, generous and always right,” he added. The playwright further explains “Don’t forget the food! It’s an important part of a family, Italiano or otherwise.” The musical pays tribute to everything from meatballs to lasagna and to Noni’s famous recipe for ‘chicken pizziaola.’ “It’s like an Italian house party,” said co-producer Jimmy Johansmeyer. “And it’s the perfect way to celebrate the opening of Pantochino’s fifteenth season.”
The musical features sets by Von Del Mar, costumes by Johansmeyer, lighting by Jakob Kelsey, sound by Tyler Kittleman and Christina Ronquillo will stage manage.
“Noni Cimino’s Kitchen” will be performed October 11 - 27 with shows Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 pm, and Sundays at 2 pm. There will be two Saturday matinees (October 19 & 26) at 2pm. Tickets are $35.00. and seating is cabaret-style. Audiences are invited to bring their own food and drink to enjoy during the performance. The Milford Arts Council, The MAC is located at 40 Railroad Avenue South on the east bound side of the Metro-North tracks. Free parking is available in the train station lots at showtime. Further details and tickets are available at pantochino.com.