As we enter into our second season with the AMP Theatre Company, we have set an exciting precedent to celebrate great American composers. Last year we established this trend with By George, a special tribute to George Gershwin. This season we are excited to bring You're the Top to the stage as we celebrate the life and music of Cole Porter. Cole Porter's contributions to the American music world in particular the musical theatre world are nothing short of legendary. The most difficult task in compiling this piece was deciding which tunes to perform because there was so much great material to choose from.

Cole Porter wrote for the stage and screen and his music has been applauded as some of the most innovative ever written both musically and lyrically. You're the Top explores four specific genres of Porter music and we'll endeavor to bring them to life for you. First we'll raise the anchor and set sail with the Porters as we navigate Cole's fascination with world travel. Then we'll take a stroll out on the promenade deck as we discover that we've set sail on the love boat. Next stop - Hollywood as we picture some of Cole Porters music for the movies. And finally, back to Broadway where he clearly made his biggest mark.

It has been an exciting ride this past year starting this Company and working to carve out a niche in Cincinnati's flourishing arts world. It has been such an incredible honor and privilege to work with the talented artists who have sacrificed time, money, blood, sweat and tears to make a silly dream a reality. It has been particularly exciting to work with Greg Miller and Melvin Tunstall. As cofounder of the AMP, Greg's outstanding acting ability and commitment to excellence have enriched the caliber of the AMP's productions to an outstanding level. Melvin's love for the theatre and passion to perform has been nothing short of infectious. I believe that accounts for a great deal of our success in attracting the extremely talented artists who perform in the AMP productions.

We have reached a major milestone: we have survived our first year. Now we will see a paradigm shift as our focus moves from simply surviving to thriving. Neil Peart said it best when he wrote that "living on a lighted stage approaches the unreal… living in the limelight, the universal dream…" It truly is a dream come true for us to have the opportunity to develop this venue in which to perform. I am certain that you will enjoy the show, given the wonderful melodies and playful lyrics of Cole Porter, you can't help but to enjoy. So please, sit back, buckle up and enjoy the ride as we present for you Melvin Tunstall's Tribute to Cole Porter, You're the Top!

Warmest Regards,

Aaron Breford
Artistic Director