On the eve of one of the scariest and most terrifying event, I've pulled together a roundup of Theater related bits on September 11th. It's my little tribute, I guess. It was an event that effected me profoundly - I still can't watch the documentaries and movies. I'm not sure I'll ever be able to - they make me cry.
A Theater Group Offers Hope at Ground Zero
"For arts organizations, progress at the World Trade Center site has so far resembled a Beckett play: waiting and disappointment, followed by more waiting and disappointment. Opposition from victims’ relatives and political fighting have meant that none of the dreamed-of cultural projects has broken ground. And now that the Lower Manhattan Development Corporation has been disbanded, arts groups are more worried than ever that the planned performing arts center and $7 million worth of federal arts grants will remain on paper.
So the official reopening on Sept. 22 of 3-Legged Dog’s performance space in the area known as the Liberty Zone is a bit like the opening of a general store in a frontier town: some concrete evidence of progress." read more from the NYTimes
A Philadelphia Theater, Set in Its Free-Form Ways
"PHILADELPHIA — People hurry down a staircase, as a fireman rushes up. Clearly something bad has happened, but the office workers, waiters and bike messengers fleeing the scene know only that they must get out. One man drops a laptop as he descends and wastes a valuable moment of escape time to open the computer and make sure it’s still working. Anyone might have the same reaction while trying to maintain order and control in a moment that allows for neither. It’s one of those brief, absurd and yet utterly human actions.
“Love Unpunished,” a production of the Pig Iron Theater Company in Philadelphia, takes place completely in a stairwell of a doomed office tower.
The whole setting is obviously, and intentionally, reminiscent of the World Trade Center, but it was invented as a work of fiction. " read more from the NYTimes
Sept. 11-Themed Portraits, with Company's Canova, Presented Sept. 9
"A staged reading of Jonathan Bell's Portraits will be held Sept. 9 at the Mark Twain Library in Redding, CT, to benefit both the Library and Tuesday's Children, which aids children who lost a parent on 9/11.
The 7:30 PM reading will feature the talents of Diana Canova, Colleen Zenk Pinter, Mark Pinter, Charles Keating, Kathryn Hays, Tom Wiggin and Sharone Sayegh. The 90-minute performance will be followed by a talk-back session with the actors and then a reception." read more from Playbill.com
And Crown Thy Good, an Actor-Writer's Response to 9/11
"Oklahoma City Repertory Theatre (CityRep) will kick off its fifth season Sept. 9 with a special engagement that remembers the terror attacks of 9/11.
"Nearly five years after the attack, the events of September 11, 2001 still touch every American life," according to CityRep. "Like many others, Mark Oristano wanted to find a deeper meaning in the horror of the attack on the World Trade Center, which occurred only a few blocks from the hospital where he was born. A trip to Ground Zero in October 2001 set in motion a series of events which led him to uncover the story of the life, and the death, of firefighter Paul Gill, one of the 343 FDNY heroes who perished on 9/11. After taking a photograph of Paul's missing person flyer, one among thousands in lower Manhattan, a chance meeting a day later with a friend of Paul's who was flying home from New York, and Paul's memorial service, proved the starting points for this moving, spiritual exploration of September 11th and its aftermath." " read more from playbill.com
Tom Wopat to Reprise Role in 9/11 Drama The Guys in New York City
"The Flea Theater will present Anne Nelson's 9/11 drama The Guys for a limited run, with Tom Wopat reprising the role of a fire captain who must eulogize the men he lost in the tragedy.
Thomas Kail (the upcoming In the Heights) directs the staging Sept. 11-23.
Wopat will be joined by Grace Gonglewski as the journalist who helps the captain write the eulogies. Matinee and some evening performances will feature Tim Cummings and Irene Walsh, in roles they played during the original run five years ago.
The Guys, based on Nelson's real experiences, is a dialogue between a fire captain — who has lost most of his men in the Sept. 11 attack — and an editor who helps him write the eulogies as she struggles herself to come to terms with the event. Both find out, as quoted from the script, "We have no idea what wonders lie hidden in the people around us." " read more from playbill.com
Sunday, September 10, 2006
Wednesday, September 06, 2006
Theater Accessibility
One of my favorite bloggers relates his musings on the state of the Theater and it's accessibility or lack thereof to the majority of the population: The Common Touch - The Problem With Theatre Today
Even Community Theater in the Hudson Valley ranges in price from $10 to $25 a ticket - If you live paycheck to paycheck I can't imagine spending that on the theater.
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Even Community Theater in the Hudson Valley ranges in price from $10 to $25 a ticket - If you live paycheck to paycheck I can't imagine spending that on the theater.
Technorati tags: Hudson valley theater Broadway Music Musicals Blog Theater Hudson Valley Community Theater Blogs Entertainment
The Met more accessible?
I am always trying to find the time and extra dollars to go see the opera (my favorite is Carmen) but this sounds like it would be an interesting way to see the shows at the Met. Distance is not so much of an issue for me, but I think it would be great for people living outside an easy travel radius of New York.
Art should be accessible to everyone. I think this is a wonderful move on the Met's part to open up their offerings to a larger audience.
"Coming soon to your multiplex in the mall: bel canto fireworks and bass-baritone rumbles, love duets and orchestral colors, divas, tenors and trills.
The Metropolitan Opera announced today that it would begin broadcasting live performances into movie theaters across the United States, Canada and Britain, rubbing shoulders with professional wrestling and rock concerts.
The broadcasts are part of a strategy by the Met's new general manager, Peter Gelb, to widen the house's appeal by branching out into new media. The house also said today that it was opening up its vast archive of historic radio broadcast performances for streaming and downloading.
"I think what I'm doing is exactly what the Met engaged me to do, which is build bridges to a broader public," Mr. Gelb said. "The thrust of our plan is to make the Met more available. This is not about dumbing down the Met, it's just making it accessible"." NyTimes
Art should be accessible to everyone. I think this is a wonderful move on the Met's part to open up their offerings to a larger audience.
"Coming soon to your multiplex in the mall: bel canto fireworks and bass-baritone rumbles, love duets and orchestral colors, divas, tenors and trills.
The Metropolitan Opera announced today that it would begin broadcasting live performances into movie theaters across the United States, Canada and Britain, rubbing shoulders with professional wrestling and rock concerts.
The broadcasts are part of a strategy by the Met's new general manager, Peter Gelb, to widen the house's appeal by branching out into new media. The house also said today that it was opening up its vast archive of historic radio broadcast performances for streaming and downloading.
"I think what I'm doing is exactly what the Met engaged me to do, which is build bridges to a broader public," Mr. Gelb said. "The thrust of our plan is to make the Met more available. This is not about dumbing down the Met, it's just making it accessible"." NyTimes
Another Casting Change for Chicago
Another Casting Change, but I one I am very excited about. It may even tempt me back to see the show again on Broadway ... for the third, or is it fourth time?
Bebe Neuwirth returns to Chicago Cast, as Roxie!
From Playbill.com:
"Tony Award winner Bebe Neuwirth, who created the role of Velma Kelly in the revival of Kander and Ebb's Chicago, will return to that Tony-winning production in December as the show's other merry murderess, Roxie Hart.
The singer-dancer-actress is scheduled to begin performances as Roxie Dec. 31 and stay with the long-running musical through March 25, 2007."
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Bebe Neuwirth returns to Chicago Cast, as Roxie!
From Playbill.com:
"Tony Award winner Bebe Neuwirth, who created the role of Velma Kelly in the revival of Kander and Ebb's Chicago, will return to that Tony-winning production in December as the show's other merry murderess, Roxie Hart.
The singer-dancer-actress is scheduled to begin performances as Roxie Dec. 31 and stay with the long-running musical through March 25, 2007."
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So you want to be a theater star?
The New York Musical Theatre Festival has announced that it will present a contest to search for the next big musical theatre star, as part of the NYMF @ Nite series of parties at New World Stages, 340 W. 50th Street.
An open call for contestants will take place Sept. 11, 9 AM–6 PM at The Gibson Showroom, 421 W. 54th Street, between 9th and 10th Avenues. (To be eligible, performers cannot have previously appeared in a Broadway show.)
Nine finalists will be chosen from the open call. Callback rounds, for which tickets can be purchased, will take place Friday nights at 11 PM on Sept. 15, 22 and 29. Celebrity judges from Broadway, film and television will include Stephen Schwartz, Lillias White, Marc Shaiman, Eden Espinosa, Denis O'Hare, Cheyenne Jackson, and Lonny Price. Seth Rudetsky will host.
Round One, Sept. 15: My Favorite Things: performers sing one Broadway song of their choice. Each performer will be critiqued by our panel of celebrity judges. At the end, the audience will vote for their favorite performer. The six with the most votes go on to Round Two.
Round Two, Sept. 22: Anyone Can Idol: performers sing one Sondheim song of their choice. The three with the most votes go on to Round Three.
Round Three, Sept. 29: A Star Is Born: performers sing two songs of their choice – one that made another performer famous and the one that's going to make them famous. The one with the most votes is crowned the first ever Broadway Idol and will be featured exclusively in a concert at Ars Nova to be produced by NYMF.
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An open call for contestants will take place Sept. 11, 9 AM–6 PM at The Gibson Showroom, 421 W. 54th Street, between 9th and 10th Avenues. (To be eligible, performers cannot have previously appeared in a Broadway show.)
Nine finalists will be chosen from the open call. Callback rounds, for which tickets can be purchased, will take place Friday nights at 11 PM on Sept. 15, 22 and 29. Celebrity judges from Broadway, film and television will include Stephen Schwartz, Lillias White, Marc Shaiman, Eden Espinosa, Denis O'Hare, Cheyenne Jackson, and Lonny Price. Seth Rudetsky will host.
Round One, Sept. 15: My Favorite Things: performers sing one Broadway song of their choice. Each performer will be critiqued by our panel of celebrity judges. At the end, the audience will vote for their favorite performer. The six with the most votes go on to Round Two.
Round Two, Sept. 22: Anyone Can Idol: performers sing one Sondheim song of their choice. The three with the most votes go on to Round Three.
Round Three, Sept. 29: A Star Is Born: performers sing two songs of their choice – one that made another performer famous and the one that's going to make them famous. The one with the most votes is crowned the first ever Broadway Idol and will be featured exclusively in a concert at Ars Nova to be produced by NYMF.
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On Stage This Weekend September 6-10
Wow, I couldn't find too much this weekend - so I only have one of my shows to plug. If I find anything else I'll add to this post, but it seems like a slow weekend for Theater in the Mid Hudson Valley.
Grease
September 8, 9, 15, 16, 22, 23 at 8:00 PM
September 10, 17, 24 at 3:00 PM
CENTERstage Productions
The Center for Performing Arts in Rhinebeck
Route 308
Rhinebeck, NY
Call: (845) 876-3080
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Grease
September 8, 9, 15, 16, 22, 23 at 8:00 PM
September 10, 17, 24 at 3:00 PM
CENTERstage Productions
The Center for Performing Arts in Rhinebeck
Route 308
Rhinebeck, NY
Call: (845) 876-3080
Technorati tags: Hudson valley theater Broadway Music Musicals Blog Theater Hudson Valley Community Theater Blogs Entertainment
Tuesday, September 05, 2006
Auditions in the Mid Hudson Valley September 6
It's time to Auditon for the Hudson Valley's Fall Musicals! There are a huge number of Auditions happening between now and the end of the weekend. I encourage everyone to go try out for something! Summer's ending, but the Mid Hudson Valley's Theater are full of delightful Musicals and Plays!
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Bells Are Ringing
September 5, 7, 8 2006 at 7:00 PM
Production Dates: November 3 - 12 Friday, Saturday and Sundays
Casting: Cast includes Actors/Singers/Dancers
Synopsis: Ella Peterson is a telephone operator who enjoys giving out advice to her clients. Jeff Moss is a client with a writing block, and Ella, even though he doesn't know who she really is (she always pretends to be "mom" on the telephone) she arranges to meet with him. They sing and dance in the subway, entertain New Yorkers in Central Park, and eventually, fall in love.
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Lysistrata
September 10, 2006 at 2:00 PM
September 11, 2006 at 6:00 PM
90 Miles Off Broadway
Reformed Church,
Education Building
Huguenot Street
New Paltz, NY
Casting: 5 Women: Lysistrata, Kalonike, Myrrhine, Lampito, Koryphaios of Women
5 Men: Senator, Kinesias, Koryphaios of Men, Athenian Ambassador, Laconian Ambassador
*Plus many speaking & non-speaking roles
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Baker's Wife
September 10, 2006
The Fourth Wall Productions
Cunneen-Hackett Arts Center
12 Vassar Street
Poughkeepsie, NY
Production Dates: November 10 -19, Friday, Saturday at 8Pm, and Sundays at 2PM
Casting: Aimable Castagnet--the Baker, middle aged, warm & often jolly, Tenor
Genevieve Castagnet-the Baker's wife, young and restless, attractive, Mezzo
Dominique-leading man material, late 20's to 30's, Baritone
Denise-Self assured Cafe proprietor somewhat mature Soprano
cast: Ages 17 through 80 possible, most will have ensemble dance
Claude, Barnaby, the Marquis, Philippe, A Priest & a Teacher all must sing and have lines
Inez, Hortense, Simone, Therese and Nicole all sing and have lines
There is also the possibility of 4 Men of the Village roles
PomPom-a cat
Synopsis: Please Bring Sheet Music and be Prepared to Sing. Wear Confortable Clothing as you will be asked to Dance
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Best of Broadway: A Night at the Tonys
Sunday, Sept. 10 at 7:00 PM
The Center Studio
The Center for Performing Arts in Rhinebeck
Rhinebeck, NY
For Further Information Call: (845) 876 - 5348
Produced by: Diana di Grandi
Directed by: Kevin Archambault
Production Dates: Nov. 29 – Dec. 3
Casting: Singers and dancers for a musical revue of Tony Award-Winning shows, featuring songs of Rodgers & Hammerstein, Cole Porter, Lerner & Loewe, Irving Berlin, Jerry Herman, etc. Please prepare a song from a Broadway show. Bring a copy your sheet music.
------------------------------------------------
TrueNorth Theatre Project www.truenorththeatre.org
Deadline: Oct. 15
One-act river- related play entries accepted for the first annual River Play festival with the TrueNorth Theatre Project and The Beacon Institute for Rivers and Estuaries.
------------------------------------------------
Technorati tags: Hudson valley theater Broadway Music Musicals Blog Theater Hudson Valley Community Theater Blogs Entertainment
------------------------------------------------
Bells Are Ringing
September 5, 7, 8 2006 at 7:00 PM
Production Dates: November 3 - 12 Friday, Saturday and Sundays
Casting: Cast includes Actors/Singers/Dancers
Synopsis: Ella Peterson is a telephone operator who enjoys giving out advice to her clients. Jeff Moss is a client with a writing block, and Ella, even though he doesn't know who she really is (she always pretends to be "mom" on the telephone) she arranges to meet with him. They sing and dance in the subway, entertain New Yorkers in Central Park, and eventually, fall in love.
------------------------------------------------
Lysistrata
September 10, 2006 at 2:00 PM
September 11, 2006 at 6:00 PM
90 Miles Off Broadway
Reformed Church,
Education Building
Huguenot Street
New Paltz, NY
Casting: 5 Women: Lysistrata, Kalonike, Myrrhine, Lampito, Koryphaios of Women
5 Men: Senator, Kinesias, Koryphaios of Men, Athenian Ambassador, Laconian Ambassador
*Plus many speaking & non-speaking roles
------------------------------------------------
Baker's Wife
September 10, 2006
The Fourth Wall Productions
Cunneen-Hackett Arts Center
12 Vassar Street
Poughkeepsie, NY
Production Dates: November 10 -19, Friday, Saturday at 8Pm, and Sundays at 2PM
Casting: Aimable Castagnet--the Baker, middle aged, warm & often jolly, Tenor
Genevieve Castagnet-the Baker's wife, young and restless, attractive, Mezzo
Dominique-leading man material, late 20's to 30's, Baritone
Denise-Self assured Cafe proprietor somewhat mature Soprano
cast: Ages 17 through 80 possible, most will have ensemble dance
Claude, Barnaby, the Marquis, Philippe, A Priest & a Teacher all must sing and have lines
Inez, Hortense, Simone, Therese and Nicole all sing and have lines
There is also the possibility of 4 Men of the Village roles
PomPom-a cat
Synopsis: Please Bring Sheet Music and be Prepared to Sing. Wear Confortable Clothing as you will be asked to Dance
------------------------------------------------
Best of Broadway: A Night at the Tonys
Sunday, Sept. 10 at 7:00 PM
The Center Studio
The Center for Performing Arts in Rhinebeck
Rhinebeck, NY
For Further Information Call: (845) 876 - 5348
Produced by: Diana di Grandi
Directed by: Kevin Archambault
Production Dates: Nov. 29 – Dec. 3
Casting: Singers and dancers for a musical revue of Tony Award-Winning shows, featuring songs of Rodgers & Hammerstein, Cole Porter, Lerner & Loewe, Irving Berlin, Jerry Herman, etc. Please prepare a song from a Broadway show. Bring a copy your sheet music.
------------------------------------------------
TrueNorth Theatre Project www.truenorththeatre.org
Deadline: Oct. 15
One-act river- related play entries accepted for the first annual River Play festival with the TrueNorth Theatre Project and The Beacon Institute for Rivers and Estuaries.
------------------------------------------------
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September 4th in Theater History
From Playbill.com:
1895 Actor E.H. Sothern scores a personal triumph in the adventure melodrama The Prisoner of Zenda.
1922 Bringing the early 20s fad of musicals about plucky heroines like Sally, Irene and Mary to its climax, J. Fred Coots, Eddie Dowling, Cyrus Wood and Raymond Klages put them all together in a show called Sally, Irene and Mary which is yet another hit, and runs 313 performances.
1999 Ending its one-week extension today, the Greg Kotis and Mark Hollmann's musical satire,Urinetown concludes the New York International Fringe Festival — one week after all other shows had closed. The little musical that could about a Gotham-esque city where the privilege to relieve oneself is regulated by a single corporation, will go on to play an Off-Broadway run, followed by a Broadway run at Henry Miller's Theatre.
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1895 Actor E.H. Sothern scores a personal triumph in the adventure melodrama The Prisoner of Zenda.
1922 Bringing the early 20s fad of musicals about plucky heroines like Sally, Irene and Mary to its climax, J. Fred Coots, Eddie Dowling, Cyrus Wood and Raymond Klages put them all together in a show called Sally, Irene and Mary which is yet another hit, and runs 313 performances.
1999 Ending its one-week extension today, the Greg Kotis and Mark Hollmann's musical satire,Urinetown concludes the New York International Fringe Festival — one week after all other shows had closed. The little musical that could about a Gotham-esque city where the privilege to relieve oneself is regulated by a single corporation, will go on to play an Off-Broadway run, followed by a Broadway run at Henry Miller's Theatre.
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Thursday, August 31, 2006
Children's Show This Weekend - September 2nd
The Great All-American Audience Participation Magic Show
September 2 at 11:00 AM
Audience members will be amazed by their own feats of prestidigitation, through transmittal, transposition and mind over matter! Magician Andy Weintraub leads this show that's fun for the whole family.
The Center for Performing Arts in Rhinebeck
Route 308
Rhinebeck, NY
** Please Note - There is No advance sales for these shows; tickets are sold on the day of show starting at 10 am. General seating; most are approximately 50 minutes in length.
Technorati tags: Hudson valley theater Broadway Music Musicals Blog Theater Hudson Valley Community Theater Blogs Entertainment
September 2 at 11:00 AM
Audience members will be amazed by their own feats of prestidigitation, through transmittal, transposition and mind over matter! Magician Andy Weintraub leads this show that's fun for the whole family.
The Center for Performing Arts in Rhinebeck
Route 308
Rhinebeck, NY
** Please Note - There is No advance sales for these shows; tickets are sold on the day of show starting at 10 am. General seating; most are approximately 50 minutes in length.
Technorati tags: Hudson valley theater Broadway Music Musicals Blog Theater Hudson Valley Community Theater Blogs Entertainment
Kander & Ebb
Interesting bit about one of the major songwriting teams and the New Musical "Curtains" from NYTimes:
"IN a town that loves power couples, it probably made sense to advertise "Curtains" as "the new Kander and Ebb musical." "New" was true enough, though the copyright date on some songs in the show, which had its premiere here earlier this month, reads 1985. "Kander," certainly: John Kander wrote the music. But "Ebb"? Fred Ebb, the lyricist, died after a heart attack in 2004, leaving "Curtains" incomplete. And not just "Curtains"; in a way the death left Mr. Kander widowed. For many fans of musical theater, the dissolution of the team was more than the end of an era. It was the end of a touchstone relationship, far worse than the breakup of the Beatles or Bennifer."
Have you ever had a working relationship that was seamless? I've been lucky and had several people I could work without thinking.
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"IN a town that loves power couples, it probably made sense to advertise "Curtains" as "the new Kander and Ebb musical." "New" was true enough, though the copyright date on some songs in the show, which had its premiere here earlier this month, reads 1985. "Kander," certainly: John Kander wrote the music. But "Ebb"? Fred Ebb, the lyricist, died after a heart attack in 2004, leaving "Curtains" incomplete. And not just "Curtains"; in a way the death left Mr. Kander widowed. For many fans of musical theater, the dissolution of the team was more than the end of an era. It was the end of a touchstone relationship, far worse than the breakup of the Beatles or Bennifer."
Have you ever had a working relationship that was seamless? I've been lucky and had several people I could work without thinking.
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Wednesday, August 30, 2006
Kimberly Kay Friday "On My Own"
I wish I could go see this one ... unfortunately, I'm a little over committed right now. Performing this Friday Night, September 1, 2006 at the Rhinebeck Performing Arts Center. From the Poughkeepsie Journal on Kimberly Kay's One Woman Show "On my Own"
' "On My Own" was written by Ulster County resident Lewis Gardner, whose works have been performed at the Lee Strasberg Institute, and directed by Charles Pistone, a Broadway veteran who has appeared in "Les Miserables," "Kiss of the Spider Woman" and as the Phantom in the London production of "Phantom of the Opera."
The characters are built around monologues and other existing material that Gardner has written.
"This is about women who like men and may need men, but are OK on their own," said Kay, who lives in Woodstock. "It's a piece about empowering women." '
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' "On My Own" was written by Ulster County resident Lewis Gardner, whose works have been performed at the Lee Strasberg Institute, and directed by Charles Pistone, a Broadway veteran who has appeared in "Les Miserables," "Kiss of the Spider Woman" and as the Phantom in the London production of "Phantom of the Opera."
The characters are built around monologues and other existing material that Gardner has written.
"This is about women who like men and may need men, but are OK on their own," said Kay, who lives in Woodstock. "It's a piece about empowering women." '
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On Stage In The Mid Hudson Valley September 1- 3, 2006
Lots happening later in the month, but there are a few things for this Holiday Weekend!
Kimberly Kay – On My Own
An one-woman show, with shades of Lily Tomlin and Whoopee Goldberg - characters drawn from life and played with great sensitivity and wit.
September 1 at 8:00 PM
The Center for Performing Arts in Rhinebeck
Route 308
Rhinebeck, NY
Call: (845) 876-3080
Highlights from the Footlights (Musical Review)
September 2 at 8:00 PM
September 3 at 3:00 PM
G&S Musical Theater Company
The Center for Performing Arts in Rhinebeck
Route 308
Rhinebeck, NY
Call: (845) 876-3080
Technorati tags: Hudson valley theater Broadway Music Musicals Blog Theater Hudson Valley Community Theater Blogs Entertainment
Kimberly Kay – On My Own
An one-woman show, with shades of Lily Tomlin and Whoopee Goldberg - characters drawn from life and played with great sensitivity and wit.
September 1 at 8:00 PM
The Center for Performing Arts in Rhinebeck
Route 308
Rhinebeck, NY
Call: (845) 876-3080
Highlights from the Footlights (Musical Review)
September 2 at 8:00 PM
September 3 at 3:00 PM
G&S Musical Theater Company
The Center for Performing Arts in Rhinebeck
Route 308
Rhinebeck, NY
Call: (845) 876-3080
Technorati tags: Hudson valley theater Broadway Music Musicals Blog Theater Hudson Valley Community Theater Blogs Entertainment
Tuesday, August 29, 2006
Update on Corrie in NYC
From Playbill.com:
"Megan Dodds will reprise her role in the American premiere of the acclaimed — and controversial — historical solo play My Name Is Rachel Corrie.
Dodds played Rachel Corrie in the April 2005 Royal Court Theatre production, and reprised the role both at The Royal Court and at The Playhouse Theatre in London's West End in spring 2006."
Want to know about My Name is Rachel Corrie? Previously:
4-1-06 Art, Theater and Censorship
4-6-06 London Run Extended
4-11-06 Update on My Name is Rachel Corrie
4-23-06 NYTW Panel Discussions
6-24-06 Corrie comes to NYC
7-8-2006 Corrie Casting Call
Technorati tags: Hudson valley theater Broadway Music Musicals Blog Theater Hudson Valley Community Theater Blogs Entertainment
"Megan Dodds will reprise her role in the American premiere of the acclaimed — and controversial — historical solo play My Name Is Rachel Corrie.
Dodds played Rachel Corrie in the April 2005 Royal Court Theatre production, and reprised the role both at The Royal Court and at The Playhouse Theatre in London's West End in spring 2006."
Want to know about My Name is Rachel Corrie? Previously:
4-1-06 Art, Theater and Censorship
4-6-06 London Run Extended
4-11-06 Update on My Name is Rachel Corrie
4-23-06 NYTW Panel Discussions
6-24-06 Corrie comes to NYC
7-8-2006 Corrie Casting Call
Technorati tags: Hudson valley theater Broadway Music Musicals Blog Theater Hudson Valley Community Theater Blogs Entertainment
Saturday, August 26, 2006
Webber's new Musical
From Playbill.com:
"A cat and Jesus Christ are elements in a novel that the composer of Cats and Jesus Christ Superstar wants to musicalize.
The Daily Mail reported Andrew Lloyd Webber plans to write a musical based on the Russian novel, "The Master and Margarita," Mikhail Bulgakov's fantastical tale of the Devil, a talking cat, Christ and Pontius Pilate, a tormented writer named Master and a girlfriend named Margarita, who becomes a witch.
A Faustian tale that satirizes the oppressive Stalin regime, the novel is considered a major work of 20th century Russian literature.
The Daily Mail's Baz Bamigboye broke the news of Lloyd Webber's hope Aug. 25, citing the composer himself. Lloyd Webber's recent The Woman in White was also based on a novel, as was his Aspects of Love and The Phantom of the Opera."
Technorati tags: Hudson valley theater Broadway Music Musicals Blog Theater Hudson Valley Community Theater Movie Musicals Blogs Entertainment
"A cat and Jesus Christ are elements in a novel that the composer of Cats and Jesus Christ Superstar wants to musicalize.
The Daily Mail reported Andrew Lloyd Webber plans to write a musical based on the Russian novel, "The Master and Margarita," Mikhail Bulgakov's fantastical tale of the Devil, a talking cat, Christ and Pontius Pilate, a tormented writer named Master and a girlfriend named Margarita, who becomes a witch.
A Faustian tale that satirizes the oppressive Stalin regime, the novel is considered a major work of 20th century Russian literature.
The Daily Mail's Baz Bamigboye broke the news of Lloyd Webber's hope Aug. 25, citing the composer himself. Lloyd Webber's recent The Woman in White was also based on a novel, as was his Aspects of Love and The Phantom of the Opera."
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Hudson Valley Theater gets a Compliment
There was a nice article in the Poughkeepsie Journal yesterday - which made some interesting points. The Author encourages Audiences to be more critical and not accept performances just because they are entertained. In it he complements some of our local troupes for their talent:
" ... I love to see talent. I enjoy good talent. I have seen audiences arrested by the power of a strong actor. I have seen congregations moved by gifted singers. I have witnessed individuals captivated by paintings in an isolated corner of a gallery or museum. Talent is and always should be at the center of the arts. True talent will always entertain, but entertainment is not always generated by talent. I find my dog chasing his tail entertaining. There is no talent in his futile pursuit, but I laugh. I wouldn't say he was talented.
We here in the Hudson Valley are lucky. We do not have to travel far to see talented performers and artists, and when I say talented, I don't only mean professional.
Of course, we have the Hudson Valley Shakespeare Festival and Vassar College's Powerhouse Festival at the professional level, but we also have semiprofessional troupes like the County Players and the numerous efforts that have a home at the Center for Performing Arts at Rhinebeck. There is also an abundance of amateur talent in our local college and high school theater and music departments. Arlington High School has an incredible marching band."
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" ... I love to see talent. I enjoy good talent. I have seen audiences arrested by the power of a strong actor. I have seen congregations moved by gifted singers. I have witnessed individuals captivated by paintings in an isolated corner of a gallery or museum. Talent is and always should be at the center of the arts. True talent will always entertain, but entertainment is not always generated by talent. I find my dog chasing his tail entertaining. There is no talent in his futile pursuit, but I laugh. I wouldn't say he was talented.
We here in the Hudson Valley are lucky. We do not have to travel far to see talented performers and artists, and when I say talented, I don't only mean professional.
Of course, we have the Hudson Valley Shakespeare Festival and Vassar College's Powerhouse Festival at the professional level, but we also have semiprofessional troupes like the County Players and the numerous efforts that have a home at the Center for Performing Arts at Rhinebeck. There is also an abundance of amateur talent in our local college and high school theater and music departments. Arlington High School has an incredible marching band."
Technorati tags: Hudson valley theater Broadway Music Musicals Blog Theater Hudson Valley Community Theater Movie Musicals Blogs Entertainment
Mid Hudson Valley Auditions
Here's all the Auditions I know of happening in the Mid Hudson Valley. Make sure to prepare and try out!
TrueNorth Theatre Project www.truenorththeatre.org
Deadline: Oct. 15
One-act river- related play entries accepted for the first annual River Play festival with the TrueNorth Theatre Project and The Beacon Institute for Rivers and Estuaries.
------------------------------------------------
The Mikado
August 26 at 2:00 PM
August 27, 28 at 7:00 PM
Gilbert & Sulivan Musical Theater Company
First Presbyterian Church
100 Cannon Street (at So. Hamilton Street)
Poughkeepsie, New York
Directed by: Nancy Sans
Muscial Direction by: Laura Ramsey Russell
Production Dates: November 10 – 25, Fridays through Sundays
Casting: All principal roles Open:The Mikado (Baritone)Nanki-Poo (Tenor)Ko-Ko (Patter Baritone)Pooh-Bah (Baritone/Tenor)Pish-Tush (Baritone/Tenor)Yum-Yum (Soprano)Pitti-Sing (Soprano)Peep-Bo (Alto)Katisha (Mezzo Soprano)
We will also be auditioning a large chorus of gentlemen and ladies of Japan.
Synopsis: Those auditioning for a principal role should prepare a song from the show. Those interested in the chorus may sing any song.
For further information call Marlene at 845-658-9813
------------------------------------------------
Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat
August 27, 28, 2006 at 7:00 PM
County Players
County Players Falls Theatre
2681 W. Main St
Wappingers Falls, NY
Directed by: Tom Lawrence
------------------------------------------------
Bells Are Ringing
September 5, 7, 8 2006 at 7:00 PM
Coach House Players
12 Augusta Street
Kingsont, NY
Production Dates: November 3 - 12 Friday, Saturday and Sundays
Casting: Cast includes Actors/Singers/Dancers
Synopsis: Ella Peterson is a telephone operator who enjoys giving out advice to her clients. Jeff Moss is a client with a writing block, and Ella, even though he doesn't know who she really is (she always pretends to be "mom" on the telephone) she arranges to meet with him. They sing and dance in the subway, entertain New Yorkers in Central Park, and eventually, fall in love.
------------------------------------------------
Baker's Wife
September 10, 2006 at 7:00 PM
The Fourth Wall Productions
Cunneen-Hackett Arts Center
12 Vassar Street
Poughkeepsie, NY
------------------------------------------------
Best of Broadway: A Night at the Tonys
September 10 at 7:00 PM
The Center Studio
The Center for Performing Arts in Rhinebeck
Rhinebeck, NY
For Further Information Call: (845) 876 - 5348
Produced by: Diana di Grandi
Directed by: Kevin Archambault
Production Dates: Nov. 29 – Dec. 3
Casting: Singers and dancers for a musical revue of Tony Award-Winning shows, featuring songs of Rodgers & Hammerstein, Cole Porter, Lerner & Loewe, Irving Berlin, Jerry Herman, etc. Please prepare a song from a Broadway show. Bring a copy your sheet music.
------------------------------------------------
The Cocktail Hour
November 12, 13, 2006 at 7:00 PM
County Players
County Players Falls Theatre
2681 W. Main St
Wappingers Falls, NY
Directed by: Jeff Wilson
------------------------------------------------
Hello Dolly!
December 18, 19, 20 at 7:00 PM
The Center for Performing Arts in Rhinebeck
Rhinebeck, NY
For Further Information Call: (845) 876 - 5348
Produced by: Diana di Grandi
Directed by: Diana di Grandi & Laurie Septe Marder
Production Dates: March 9 – April 11
------------------------------------------------
Jekyll & Hyde
January 28, 29, 2007 at 7:00 PM
County Players
County Players Falls Theatre
2681 W. Main St
Wappingers Falls, NY
Directed by: Anna Marie Martino
------------------------------------------------
Technorati tags: Hudson valley theater Broadway Music Musicals Blog Theater Hudson Valley Community Theater Movie Musicals Blogs Entertainment
TrueNorth Theatre Project www.truenorththeatre.org
Deadline: Oct. 15
One-act river- related play entries accepted for the first annual River Play festival with the TrueNorth Theatre Project and The Beacon Institute for Rivers and Estuaries.
------------------------------------------------
The Mikado
August 26 at 2:00 PM
August 27, 28 at 7:00 PM
Gilbert & Sulivan Musical Theater Company
First Presbyterian Church
100 Cannon Street (at So. Hamilton Street)
Poughkeepsie, New York
Directed by: Nancy Sans
Muscial Direction by: Laura Ramsey Russell
Production Dates: November 10 – 25, Fridays through Sundays
Casting: All principal roles Open:The Mikado (Baritone)Nanki-Poo (Tenor)Ko-Ko (Patter Baritone)Pooh-Bah (Baritone/Tenor)Pish-Tush (Baritone/Tenor)Yum-Yum (Soprano)Pitti-Sing (Soprano)Peep-Bo (Alto)Katisha (Mezzo Soprano)
We will also be auditioning a large chorus of gentlemen and ladies of Japan.
Synopsis: Those auditioning for a principal role should prepare a song from the show. Those interested in the chorus may sing any song.
For further information call Marlene at 845-658-9813
------------------------------------------------
Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat
August 27, 28, 2006 at 7:00 PM
County Players
County Players Falls Theatre
2681 W. Main St
Wappingers Falls, NY
Directed by: Tom Lawrence
------------------------------------------------
Bells Are Ringing
September 5, 7, 8 2006 at 7:00 PM
Coach House Players
12 Augusta Street
Kingsont, NY
Production Dates: November 3 - 12 Friday, Saturday and Sundays
Casting: Cast includes Actors/Singers/Dancers
Synopsis: Ella Peterson is a telephone operator who enjoys giving out advice to her clients. Jeff Moss is a client with a writing block, and Ella, even though he doesn't know who she really is (she always pretends to be "mom" on the telephone) she arranges to meet with him. They sing and dance in the subway, entertain New Yorkers in Central Park, and eventually, fall in love.
------------------------------------------------
Baker's Wife
September 10, 2006 at 7:00 PM
The Fourth Wall Productions
Cunneen-Hackett Arts Center
12 Vassar Street
Poughkeepsie, NY
------------------------------------------------
Best of Broadway: A Night at the Tonys
September 10 at 7:00 PM
The Center Studio
The Center for Performing Arts in Rhinebeck
Rhinebeck, NY
For Further Information Call: (845) 876 - 5348
Produced by: Diana di Grandi
Directed by: Kevin Archambault
Production Dates: Nov. 29 – Dec. 3
Casting: Singers and dancers for a musical revue of Tony Award-Winning shows, featuring songs of Rodgers & Hammerstein, Cole Porter, Lerner & Loewe, Irving Berlin, Jerry Herman, etc. Please prepare a song from a Broadway show. Bring a copy your sheet music.
------------------------------------------------
The Cocktail Hour
November 12, 13, 2006 at 7:00 PM
County Players
County Players Falls Theatre
2681 W. Main St
Wappingers Falls, NY
Directed by: Jeff Wilson
------------------------------------------------
Hello Dolly!
December 18, 19, 20 at 7:00 PM
The Center for Performing Arts in Rhinebeck
Rhinebeck, NY
For Further Information Call: (845) 876 - 5348
Produced by: Diana di Grandi
Directed by: Diana di Grandi & Laurie Septe Marder
Production Dates: March 9 – April 11
------------------------------------------------
Jekyll & Hyde
January 28, 29, 2007 at 7:00 PM
County Players
County Players Falls Theatre
2681 W. Main St
Wappingers Falls, NY
Directed by: Anna Marie Martino
------------------------------------------------
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Wednesday, August 23, 2006
This Weekend On stage in the Mid Hudson Valley August 23 - 27
A variety of Theater events on stage this weekend in the Mid Hudson Valley - Enjoy!
Karaoke
August 23 at 9:00 PM
The Center for Performing Arts in Rhinebeck
Route 308
Rhinebeck, NY
Call: (845) 876-3080
Joe Raiola – 'Almost Obscene'
August 25, 26 8:00 PM
August 25, 26 10:00 PM
MAD Magazine senior editor and WDST personality in an evening of edgy, thought-provoking comedy! He's smart and unpredictable - in the manner of Lenny Bruce and George Carlin.
The Center for Performing Arts in Rhinebeck
Route 308
Rhinebeck, NY
Call: (845) 876-3080
All God's Children Got Shoes
An exciting gospel musical
August 25, 26 at 6:30PM
Cunneen-Hackett Arts Center
Poughkeepsie, NY
Call: (845) 486-4571
Rob Cannilo & Friends
August 27 at 3:00 PM
Raised on a diet of the Allman Brothers, Ray Charles, BB King and Bob Dylan, Rob writes songs with grit, emotion and meaning, delivered with a smoky vocal that completes the package.
The Center for Performing Arts in Rhinebeck
Route 308
Rhinebeck, NY
Call: (845) 876-3080
Technorati tags: Hudson valley theater Broadway Music Musicals Blog Theater Hudson Valley Community Theater Movie Musicals Blogs Entertainment
Karaoke
August 23 at 9:00 PM
The Center for Performing Arts in Rhinebeck
Route 308
Rhinebeck, NY
Call: (845) 876-3080
Joe Raiola – 'Almost Obscene'
August 25, 26 8:00 PM
August 25, 26 10:00 PM
MAD Magazine senior editor and WDST personality in an evening of edgy, thought-provoking comedy! He's smart and unpredictable - in the manner of Lenny Bruce and George Carlin.
The Center for Performing Arts in Rhinebeck
Route 308
Rhinebeck, NY
Call: (845) 876-3080
All God's Children Got Shoes
An exciting gospel musical
August 25, 26 at 6:30PM
Cunneen-Hackett Arts Center
Poughkeepsie, NY
Call: (845) 486-4571
Rob Cannilo & Friends
August 27 at 3:00 PM
Raised on a diet of the Allman Brothers, Ray Charles, BB King and Bob Dylan, Rob writes songs with grit, emotion and meaning, delivered with a smoky vocal that completes the package.
The Center for Performing Arts in Rhinebeck
Route 308
Rhinebeck, NY
Call: (845) 876-3080
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Tuesday, August 22, 2006
Monday and Tuesday Rehearsals
Yesterday rehearsals went well - I was double booked - Grease rehearsal was from 7-11 and Oliver was 8:30 - 11. I wasn't finished with my parts in Grease until 9:30 but fortunately Oliver was running late also.
Grease is going really well - I think it will be very good. We have such a talented and fun cast - I'm really enjoying getting to know everyone. I'm starting to get comfortable in my role and am getting close to getting it word perfect. Good thing since we open in 17 days. Yikes!
Oliver we worked on 'Consider Yourself' working on the choreography and the music. It's really cute - I'm really excited to see how the show progresses and comes together. In my spare time I'm working on my cockney accent and songs for the show.
Tonight I just had Grease rehearsal but since I carpooled with my Dad I needed to leave at 10:00 and at that time, we hadn't even gotten to act II yet. So I got to do my Act I scenes but not my Act II ones.
I'm off tomorrow from everything - except maybe voice lessons, but I need to call tomorrow and confirm. Otherwise I've got something every other night this week. Busy, but loving it.
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Grease is going really well - I think it will be very good. We have such a talented and fun cast - I'm really enjoying getting to know everyone. I'm starting to get comfortable in my role and am getting close to getting it word perfect. Good thing since we open in 17 days. Yikes!
Oliver we worked on 'Consider Yourself' working on the choreography and the music. It's really cute - I'm really excited to see how the show progresses and comes together. In my spare time I'm working on my cockney accent and songs for the show.
Tonight I just had Grease rehearsal but since I carpooled with my Dad I needed to leave at 10:00 and at that time, we hadn't even gotten to act II yet. So I got to do my Act I scenes but not my Act II ones.
I'm off tomorrow from everything - except maybe voice lessons, but I need to call tomorrow and confirm. Otherwise I've got something every other night this week. Busy, but loving it.
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Sunday, August 20, 2006
Theater in the Catskills
An interesting Bit about Theater and one of the old vacation resorts in the Catskill Mountains of New York (remember Dirty Dancing?) It looks like a group is going to try and revamp the camp to provide a space for theater troupes retreats.
From the NYTimes:
"AT Sugar Maples, a derelict summer resort perched here atop the northern Catskills, the Olympic-size swimming pool has been filled with concrete, and the roller skating rink has fallen into grave disrepair. Waist-high weeds obscure the ball fields. Roofs list, and doors dangle on their hinges. But in this dilapidated holiday spot, a new arts group, the Orchard Project, sees a warm-weather retreat for innovative theater artists. While other residencies, like the Eugene O’Neill Theater Center, are devoted to playwrights only or playwright-director teams, the Orchard Project will try to serve entire companies who create work collaboratively."
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From the NYTimes:
"AT Sugar Maples, a derelict summer resort perched here atop the northern Catskills, the Olympic-size swimming pool has been filled with concrete, and the roller skating rink has fallen into grave disrepair. Waist-high weeds obscure the ball fields. Roofs list, and doors dangle on their hinges. But in this dilapidated holiday spot, a new arts group, the Orchard Project, sees a warm-weather retreat for innovative theater artists. While other residencies, like the Eugene O’Neill Theater Center, are devoted to playwrights only or playwright-director teams, the Orchard Project will try to serve entire companies who create work collaboratively."
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Andrew Lloyd Blogger
Andrew Lloyd Webber has joined the blogoshere ... to promote the reality TV show 'Maria' To see what he has to say, check it out here.
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Technorati tags: Hudson valley theater Broadway Music Musicals Blog Theater Hudson Valley Community Theater Movie Musicals Blogs Entertainment
Johnny Depp as Sweeney Todd in Movie?
I'm not sure what to think about this casting choice ....
"DreamWorks Studios confirmed plans for the upcoming Tim Burton film version of Stephen Sondheim's musical Sweeney Todd starring his constant collaborator Johnny Depp in the title role." more from Playbill.com
Can Johnny Depp Sing? "You'd think that this question might have come up earlier in the discussions about the actor taking on the role of Sweeney Todd in that show's big screen adaption, directed by Tim Burton. The UK Times reports that composer Stephen Sondheim is concerned about his singing ability, and won't approve the film until he hears him sing the score. Depp has said that he's been singing his whole life (the only evidence of such being some rock records from the 80s in which Depp played guitar rather than sing) but the jury is still out. He's certainly got the acting chops for the role which I don't think anyone will dispute... What will Sondheim's verdict be? Only time will tell..."
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"DreamWorks Studios confirmed plans for the upcoming Tim Burton film version of Stephen Sondheim's musical Sweeney Todd starring his constant collaborator Johnny Depp in the title role." more from Playbill.com
Can Johnny Depp Sing? "You'd think that this question might have come up earlier in the discussions about the actor taking on the role of Sweeney Todd in that show's big screen adaption, directed by Tim Burton. The UK Times reports that composer Stephen Sondheim is concerned about his singing ability, and won't approve the film until he hears him sing the score. Depp has said that he's been singing his whole life (the only evidence of such being some rock records from the 80s in which Depp played guitar rather than sing) but the jury is still out. He's certainly got the acting chops for the role which I don't think anyone will dispute... What will Sondheim's verdict be? Only time will tell..."
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Saturday, August 19, 2006
Playwrights Collaborate Online
I find this very interesting - two of the bloggers I read on a regular basis are writing a play together. To add another dimension to the process they have decided to Blog the interactions.
Parabasis : New Feature The Shadow Diaries 2
On Theatre and Politics - Matthew Freeman : The Shadow - a public process The Shadow - a public process - Part 2 Scene from "The Shadow" - Skribent/Publisher
I'm looking forward to seeing the results.
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Parabasis : New Feature The Shadow Diaries 2
On Theatre and Politics - Matthew Freeman : The Shadow - a public process The Shadow - a public process - Part 2 Scene from "The Shadow" - Skribent/Publisher
I'm looking forward to seeing the results.
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Footloose
Gale & I went to see the RUST production of Footloose last night. It is a Musical based on the 1984 Movie.
Highlights include "Somebody's Eyes" which was the strongest number in the show, as well as "Let's Hear It for the Boy". The Ladies playing Ariel, Rusty, Urleen, Wendy Jo were excellent. Another Favorite was "Mama Says" sung by Willard, who was adorable.
There were some very bumpy numbers as well, and the band - playing in the pit downstairs, and piped over the sound system often drowned out the singers.
Poughkeepsie Journal has an article on this show also.
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Highlights include "Somebody's Eyes" which was the strongest number in the show, as well as "Let's Hear It for the Boy". The Ladies playing Ariel, Rusty, Urleen, Wendy Jo were excellent. Another Favorite was "Mama Says" sung by Willard, who was adorable.
There were some very bumpy numbers as well, and the band - playing in the pit downstairs, and piped over the sound system often drowned out the singers.
Poughkeepsie Journal has an article on this show also.
Technorati tags: Hudson valley theater Broadway Music Musicals Blog Theater Hudson Valley Community Theater Movie Musicals Blogs Entertainment
Friday, August 18, 2006
Tangled Web of Theater
I mentioned a week ago ... make that two weeks ago that I was asked to play Miss Lynch in Grease. Rehearsals have been going well, the cast is very talented, and I'm looking forward to seeing how everything comes together. The show will open September 8th and will run until September 24th.
I've double booked myself, Yes I know, I am a little crazy - a confirmed theater geek.
I also have a role in Oliver! and we have started rehearsing for that show as well. Oliver! is full of wonderful energetic people, some of which I've had the pleasure to work with before. I'm really enjoying learning the choreography, the songs, and brushing up my cockney accent. Oliver! opens October 6th and will run until October 22nd.
Needless to say I think I'll be taking some time off from the theater, at least time off from being onstage, after I finish these two shows. I'm lucky my Husband is so understanding ... I'll be on stage performing in Grease on our first anniversary!
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I've double booked myself, Yes I know, I am a little crazy - a confirmed theater geek.
I also have a role in Oliver! and we have started rehearsing for that show as well. Oliver! is full of wonderful energetic people, some of which I've had the pleasure to work with before. I'm really enjoying learning the choreography, the songs, and brushing up my cockney accent. Oliver! opens October 6th and will run until October 22nd.
Needless to say I think I'll be taking some time off from the theater, at least time off from being onstage, after I finish these two shows. I'm lucky my Husband is so understanding ... I'll be on stage performing in Grease on our first anniversary!
Technorati tags: Hudson valley theater Broadway Music Musicals Blog Theater Hudson Valley Community Theater Movie Musicals Blogs Entertainment
Grinch Casting Notice
From Playbill.com:
"Today Show" to Present How the Grinch Stole Christmas! Casting Competition
The producers of the upcoming holiday musical How the Grinch Stole Christmas! are currently looking to cast one of the "Whos" in the Dr. Seuss musical.
Children ages eight to fourteen, who are no taller than five feet, can audition for the role by creating a video tape displaying their talent. Tapes must be received by Aug. 30, and finalists — who will be chosen by the show's director — will appear on the "Today Show" Sept. 7. The winner of the "Who" competition will be announced at that time.
As previously announced, Dr. Seuss' How the Grinch Stole Christmas! — The Musical will begin previews at the Hilton Theatre Oct. 25 with an official opening on Nov. 8. The limited engagement will play through Jan. 7, 2007. Matt August will stage the Broadway run with choreography by John DeLuca.
Click here for complete audition information. -->
"Today Show" to Present How the Grinch Stole Christmas! Casting Competition
The producers of the upcoming holiday musical How the Grinch Stole Christmas! are currently looking to cast one of the "Whos" in the Dr. Seuss musical.
Children ages eight to fourteen, who are no taller than five feet, can audition for the role by creating a video tape displaying their talent. Tapes must be received by Aug. 30, and finalists — who will be chosen by the show's director — will appear on the "Today Show" Sept. 7. The winner of the "Who" competition will be announced at that time.
As previously announced, Dr. Seuss' How the Grinch Stole Christmas! — The Musical will begin previews at the Hilton Theatre Oct. 25 with an official opening on Nov. 8. The limited engagement will play through Jan. 7, 2007. Matt August will stage the Broadway run with choreography by John DeLuca.
Click here for complete audition information. -->
Wednesday, August 16, 2006
The Young and the Theater
There's been some interesting conversations on the lack of "young" (for the sake of argument we'll call young under 30) theatergoers lately that I'd like to examine. Some time ago I posted about Broadway Demographics report in which it gives the average age of 43 years old.
Personally, I feel that theater is being viewed as just another entertainment venue by the young, and I see it as a trend that will continue. So for the theater to appeal to younger patrons I think it will need to re-invent both it's image and the way it talks to it's audience.
So Issac on his blog gave an example of a friend of his that was under 30, and had been exposed to the theater as a youngster, yet still wasn't into going to the theater.
The conversation got picked up by Playgoer, That Elusive Young Audience, and Young Audiences follow-up which has some really insightful thoughts on the subject.
Also related is this great post that gives a perspective on a program that encourages young professionals to support the Arts.
Technorati tags: Hudson valley theater Broadway Music Musicals Blog Theater Hudson Valley Community Theater Movie Musicals Blogs Entertainment
Personally, I feel that theater is being viewed as just another entertainment venue by the young, and I see it as a trend that will continue. So for the theater to appeal to younger patrons I think it will need to re-invent both it's image and the way it talks to it's audience.
So Issac on his blog gave an example of a friend of his that was under 30, and had been exposed to the theater as a youngster, yet still wasn't into going to the theater.
The conversation got picked up by Playgoer, That Elusive Young Audience, and Young Audiences follow-up which has some really insightful thoughts on the subject.
Also related is this great post that gives a perspective on a program that encourages young professionals to support the Arts.
Technorati tags: Hudson valley theater Broadway Music Musicals Blog Theater Hudson Valley Community Theater Movie Musicals Blogs Entertainment
Comments on Reality Theater
There's been a fair amount of discussion on the whole Reality Theater concept. I mentioned it here: More Reality Theater ... Grease and Reality TV comes to the Theater
Other perspectives are here:
HOW DO YOU SOLVE A PROBLEM LIKE...WTF from my life...and other meaningless drivel
Casting by Reality Show from The Playgoer
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Other perspectives are here:
HOW DO YOU SOLVE A PROBLEM LIKE...WTF from my life...and other meaningless drivel
Casting by Reality Show from The Playgoer
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On Stage in the Mid Hudson Valley August 17 - 20
There are a couple of great shows to see this weekend on stage in the hudson valley. I'm ushering for Footloose on Friday Night with Gale.
Footloose
August 17, 18, 19 at 8:00 PM
August 20 at 3:00 PM
Rhinebeck Unplugged Student Theater (RUST)
The Center for Performing Arts in Rhinebeck
Route 308
Rhinebeck, NY
Call: (845) 876-3080
Fame
August 17, 18, 19 at 8:00 PM
August 19 at 2:00PM
Brewster Theatre Company
Call: (845) 598-1621
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Footloose
August 17, 18, 19 at 8:00 PM
August 20 at 3:00 PM
Rhinebeck Unplugged Student Theater (RUST)
The Center for Performing Arts in Rhinebeck
Route 308
Rhinebeck, NY
Call: (845) 876-3080
Fame
August 17, 18, 19 at 8:00 PM
August 19 at 2:00PM
Brewster Theatre Company
Call: (845) 598-1621
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Internet Withdrawal
I figured I better explain my absence - I have been having issues with my internet connection. Thankfully it's fixed so I won't continue in my theater news and general internet withdrawal.
Wednesday, August 09, 2006
More Reality Theater ... Grease
In the last few weeks I mentioned the BBC running a Reality TV show to select a Maria for an upcoming production of The Sound of Music in London.
Well now it looks like they'll be doing the same thing for an upcoming Broadway Revival of Grease. I'll reserve judgment until I see the result ....
From BBC:
"You're the One That We Want will see members of the public competing for the lead parts of Danny and Sandy.
The panel of judges giving their verdicts includes Jim Jacobs, the creator of Grease - although a public vote will eventually decide the winner.
The revival of the musical will hit Broadway theatres in June 2007. "
Oh, can I also add (for the record) that "You're the one that I want" is not a song in the original show? It was made popular by the movie.
Technorati tags: Hudson valley theater Broadway Music Musicals Blog Theater Hudson Valley Community Theater Movie Musicals Blogs Entertainment
Well now it looks like they'll be doing the same thing for an upcoming Broadway Revival of Grease. I'll reserve judgment until I see the result ....
From BBC:
"You're the One That We Want will see members of the public competing for the lead parts of Danny and Sandy.
The panel of judges giving their verdicts includes Jim Jacobs, the creator of Grease - although a public vote will eventually decide the winner.
The revival of the musical will hit Broadway theatres in June 2007. "
Oh, can I also add (for the record) that "You're the one that I want" is not a song in the original show? It was made popular by the movie.
Technorati tags: Hudson valley theater Broadway Music Musicals Blog Theater Hudson Valley Community Theater Movie Musicals Blogs Entertainment
Children's Theater in the Mid Hudson Valley Aug 9
Upcoming Children's Shows
Steve Charney and Harry
August 12 at 11:00 AM
An annual summer tradition at The CENTER! Steve has been acting like a nut for a long, long time. With Harry, his dummy, he'll be performing zany magic, silly music and goofball ventriloquism.
The Center for Performing Arts in Rhinebeck
Route 308
Rhinebeck, NY
** Please Note - There is No advance sales for these shows; tickets are sold on the day of show starting at 10 am. General seating; most are approximately 50 minutes in length.
Incredible Larry
August 19 at 11:00 AM
Incredible Larry is a variety juggler with a unique comedic personality that delivers dynamic entertainment and captivates people of all ages.
The Center for Performing Arts in Rhinebeck
Route 308
Rhinebeck, NY
** Please Note - Thare is No advance sales for these shows; tickets are sold on the day of show starting at 10 am. General seating; most are approximately 50 minutes in length.
Bill Robinson's Wildlife Adventures
August 26 at 11:00 AM
Wildlife expert Bill Robinson returns with an up-close and personal presentation of birds and reptiles. Learn how animals adapt for survival, as well as the importance of all animals in the balance of nature.
The Center for Performing Arts in Rhinebeck
Route 308
Rhinebeck, NY
** Please Note - There is No advance sales for these shows; tickets are sold on the day of show starting at 10 am. General seating; most are approximately 50 minutes in length.
The Great All-American Audience Participation Magic Show
September 2 at 11:00 AM
Audience members will be amazed by their own feats of prestidigitation, through transmittal, transposition and mind over matter! Magician Andy Weintraub leads this show that's fun for the whole family.
The Center for Performing Arts in Rhinebeck
Route 308
Rhinebeck, NY
** Please Note - There is No advance sales for these shows; tickets are sold on the day of show starting at 10 am. General seating; most are approximately 50 minutes in length.
Steve Charney and Harry
August 12 at 11:00 AM
An annual summer tradition at The CENTER! Steve has been acting like a nut for a long, long time. With Harry, his dummy, he'll be performing zany magic, silly music and goofball ventriloquism.
The Center for Performing Arts in Rhinebeck
Route 308
Rhinebeck, NY
** Please Note - There is No advance sales for these shows; tickets are sold on the day of show starting at 10 am. General seating; most are approximately 50 minutes in length.
Incredible Larry
August 19 at 11:00 AM
Incredible Larry is a variety juggler with a unique comedic personality that delivers dynamic entertainment and captivates people of all ages.
The Center for Performing Arts in Rhinebeck
Route 308
Rhinebeck, NY
** Please Note - Thare is No advance sales for these shows; tickets are sold on the day of show starting at 10 am. General seating; most are approximately 50 minutes in length.
Bill Robinson's Wildlife Adventures
August 26 at 11:00 AM
Wildlife expert Bill Robinson returns with an up-close and personal presentation of birds and reptiles. Learn how animals adapt for survival, as well as the importance of all animals in the balance of nature.
The Center for Performing Arts in Rhinebeck
Route 308
Rhinebeck, NY
** Please Note - There is No advance sales for these shows; tickets are sold on the day of show starting at 10 am. General seating; most are approximately 50 minutes in length.
The Great All-American Audience Participation Magic Show
September 2 at 11:00 AM
Audience members will be amazed by their own feats of prestidigitation, through transmittal, transposition and mind over matter! Magician Andy Weintraub leads this show that's fun for the whole family.
The Center for Performing Arts in Rhinebeck
Route 308
Rhinebeck, NY
** Please Note - There is No advance sales for these shows; tickets are sold on the day of show starting at 10 am. General seating; most are approximately 50 minutes in length.
Tuesday, August 08, 2006
On Stage in Mid Hudson Valley Theaters, August 8 -13
On Stage This weekend in the Mid hudson Valley. We have some great choices for the hot days of August.
Chicago (review)
August 10, 11, 12 at 8:00 PM
August 13 at 3:00 PM
Up In One Productions
The Center for Performing Arts in Rhinebeck
Route 308
Rhinebeck, NY
Call: (845) 876-3080
A Moon for the Misbegotten
Aug 11, 12 at 8:00 PM
BeBa Theatre Arts
Church of the Ascension Parish Hall
1585 Route 9W
West Park, NY
Call: (845) 384-6723
The Reality Play
August 11, 12, 13
WOW Productions
Cunneen-Hackett Arts Center
Poughkeepsie, NY
Call: (845) 486-4571
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Chicago (review)
August 10, 11, 12 at 8:00 PM
August 13 at 3:00 PM
Up In One Productions
The Center for Performing Arts in Rhinebeck
Route 308
Rhinebeck, NY
Call: (845) 876-3080
A Moon for the Misbegotten
Aug 11, 12 at 8:00 PM
BeBa Theatre Arts
Church of the Ascension Parish Hall
1585 Route 9W
West Park, NY
Call: (845) 384-6723
The Reality Play
August 11, 12, 13
WOW Productions
Cunneen-Hackett Arts Center
Poughkeepsie, NY
Call: (845) 486-4571
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Earnest online
This sounds like a really cool project - It's called LibriVox.org, and it enlists volunteers to create free, public-domain audiobooks in mp3 format.
They've also done: The Importance of Being Earnest by Oscar Wilde. Volunteer cast members from all over the world recorded their lines individually. The recordings were then spliced together to produce the play.
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They've also done: The Importance of Being Earnest by Oscar Wilde. Volunteer cast members from all over the world recorded their lines individually. The recordings were then spliced together to produce the play.
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Monday, August 07, 2006
Chicago Review
I went to see Chicago at the Center for Performing Arts at Rhinebeck yesterday. It is a wonderful production with wonderful performers, sets, lighting and music. I ushered the show with two of my friends, and we all agreed that some of the casting choices were unique. Which made the show more interesting. Especially since I've seen the revival on Broadway twice, as well as the movie. My fellow usherette had seen the original on Broadway.
My absolute favorite had to be Mary Sunshine, Kevin Archambault did an awesome job with a role that I usually don't like. Elizabeth Thomas as Roxie, was an excellent, surprising, fresh take on the role. Kat Murello did a fantastic Velma, sarcastic, husky ... beautiful. Tony Moran, who as Amos, stole the show with his Mister Cellophane. The rest of the cast did a similarly fantastic job.
The Set was wonderful and the scene transitions were very quick and efficient. There were some small prop malfunctions and costume issues but that is the joy of live theater. Every performance is so very different. I will agree with other critics that, at times, the ensemble did overwhelm the small stage. There was so very much going on, that it was distracting when a scene was being played at the same time. My other complaint is there were certain scenes that were blocked so that the actor was delivering a line with their back to the audience, which means the audience really misses out on the facial inflections an actor gives their words.
Other then that, the show was well staged, and I can recommend it whole heartedly. Though I will recommend getting a seat higher up as there is so much going on, it will be easier to take it all in from a distance.
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My absolute favorite had to be Mary Sunshine, Kevin Archambault did an awesome job with a role that I usually don't like. Elizabeth Thomas as Roxie, was an excellent, surprising, fresh take on the role. Kat Murello did a fantastic Velma, sarcastic, husky ... beautiful. Tony Moran, who as Amos, stole the show with his Mister Cellophane. The rest of the cast did a similarly fantastic job.
The Set was wonderful and the scene transitions were very quick and efficient. There were some small prop malfunctions and costume issues but that is the joy of live theater. Every performance is so very different. I will agree with other critics that, at times, the ensemble did overwhelm the small stage. There was so very much going on, that it was distracting when a scene was being played at the same time. My other complaint is there were certain scenes that were blocked so that the actor was delivering a line with their back to the audience, which means the audience really misses out on the facial inflections an actor gives their words.
Other then that, the show was well staged, and I can recommend it whole heartedly. Though I will recommend getting a seat higher up as there is so much going on, it will be easier to take it all in from a distance.
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Sunday, August 06, 2006
Benjamin Franklin ... Composer?
Is it possible that a man that is well known for everything from politics to science, printing and writing also composed music?
From Playbill Arts:
"It is well established that Franklin played several musical instruments and enjoyed music. The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports that a Pennsylvania professor of music believes Franklin was also the composer of an unusual quartet whose author has never been ascertained.
The paper says that Kenneth Sarch, director of orchestral activities at Mansfield University in north-central Pennsylvania, believes Franklin composed an unusual five-movement string quartet while living in Paris around 1778. The work calls for three violins and one cello, instead of the usual ensemble of two violins, viola and cello that was standard by the late 18th century. But that's not the strangest aspect: the piece stipulates that all four string instruments retune to different pitches, "creating 16 notes to be played without left-hand fingering, using only the bow," Sarch told the paper."
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From Playbill Arts:
"It is well established that Franklin played several musical instruments and enjoyed music. The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports that a Pennsylvania professor of music believes Franklin was also the composer of an unusual quartet whose author has never been ascertained.
The paper says that Kenneth Sarch, director of orchestral activities at Mansfield University in north-central Pennsylvania, believes Franklin composed an unusual five-movement string quartet while living in Paris around 1778. The work calls for three violins and one cello, instead of the usual ensemble of two violins, viola and cello that was standard by the late 18th century. But that's not the strangest aspect: the piece stipulates that all four string instruments retune to different pitches, "creating 16 notes to be played without left-hand fingering, using only the bow," Sarch told the paper."
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Grease History
About Grease:
Grease is a popular musical by Jim Jacobs and Warren Casey. A very successful film version was made in 1978 starring John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John.
The musical is based around some of the subcultures of 1950s High school America, including the "tough guy" working-class greasers from which the musical takes its name. The musical takes place at fictional Rydell High in Chicago, Illinois. Some of the social issues featured in the musical are teenage pregnancy and gang violence; its themes include love, friendship, rebellion and sexual exploration during adolescence, and, to some degree, class consciousness/class conflict.
The show originated in Chicago and made its premier at The Kingston Mines. The original production was over three hours long and had to be whittled down significantly in between its opening in Chicago and its premier on Broadway. When the show opened on Broadway in 1972, it was well received by the public despite less-than-favorable reviews from critics. Nevertheless, it was nominated for seven Tony Awards and the 1994 revival was nominated for three. In 2003, Grease was voted Best Musical of All-Time in a Channel 4 poll.
A darker, harder-edged portrayal of some of the same subcultures (though slightly later) can be found in S.E. Hinton's novel The Outsiders. Other dramatic portrayals include the classic James Dean movie, Rebel Without A Cause, and the 1957 musical West Side Story.
In November of 2002 Donna Mills revealed to Camille Paglia in an interview that the character of Sandy in Grease was based on her experiences as a Chicago-area teen.
Synopsis:
Act One
With the sound of rock and roll music flowing into our ears, the most colorful members of the class of '59 enter in flashback. The "greasers," comprised of the Burger Palace Boys and the Pink Ladies, are what everyone remembers about their senior year. As they sing Alma Mater Parody, it's easy to see why. Flashback to the first day of senior year, September, 1958. The high school cafeteria bustles with kids groaning about the annual return to lousy food ("You want my coleslaw?") and dreaded teachers ("I got Old Lady Lynch for English again. She hates my guts."). The Pink Ladies sit on one side of the lunchroom, and the Burger Palace Boys sit on the other. There's a new girl in town, Sandy Dumbrowski, who shares with the Pink Ladies - Jan, Marty, Frenchy, and Betty Rizzo--the details of her summer romance.
At the same time, Danny Zuko, leader of the Burger Palace Boys (Roger, Doody, Sonny, and Kenickie), brags about his love conquest (Summer Nights). Sandy and Danny bump into each other, and while Sandy is happy to find her summer love again, Danny blows her off under the guise of being too cool.
When lunch hour ends, rock star wannabe Doody gives an impromptu concert in the hall (Those Magic Changes), making it clear that grades and SAT scores aren't nearly as important as learning to play the guitar. Boys rank even more highly than songs on the Pink Ladies' charts, which is evident at Marty's pajama party, where the girls experiment with cheap wine, cigarettes and pierced ears, and Marty tells about her long-distance courtship with a Marine (Freddy, My Love).
Meanwhile, the Burger Palace Boys are busy drinking cheap beer and daydreaming about easy girls and cool cars (Greased Lightnin'). Sandy is still hurt by Danny's brush off, but when they get a minute alone together Danny tries to explain. Head cheerleader Patty Simcox interrupts to prompt Sandy to join the squad and to tease Danny about his latest indiscretions.
The kids take their newfangled portable radios for a rock and roll picnic in the park and plan how they'll pair off at the upcoming school dance, while Roger shares his love for Jan and his favorite hobby (Mooning). Sandy passes through with valedictorian-to-be (i.e. school nerd) Eugene; she seems to have given up on Danny since she's found out that he has been telling his friends that she's "easy," which is not what a nice girl who almost went to Immaculata likes to have said about her. Rizzo teases Danny for falling for a girl who resembles the excessively proper teenage ingenue, Sandra Dee (Look at Me, I'm Sandra Dee). Sandy interrupts Rizzo's cruelty and realizes Danny is putting her off to be cool, wishing she had him again the way he use to be (Since I Don't Have You). Act I ends with couples finding dates or proclaiming their lack of a date as they sing about how they'll "always be together"(We Go Together).
Act Two
When Act II begins, everyone is Shakin' at the High School Hop - everyone, that is, except Sandy. She's home asking the stars up above why she must be a teenager in love and otherwise feeling sorry for herself (It's Raining on Prom Night). Meanwhile, all the kids are getting their kicks at the hop. The favorite radio DJ of the Burger Palace Boys and the Pink Ladies, Vince Fontaine, is the MC at the dance, which takes place in the gym. He's warming the kids up for a dance contest. Kenickie, who got a blind date after the fight that ended Act I, now dumps her and pairs off with his usual thrill, Rizzo. Danny enters the contest with Kenickie's cast-off, Cha-Cha DeGregorio, and they win (Born to Hand Jive).
A few days later at the Burger Palace after school, a couple of the guys run into Frenchy who flunked out of Rydell and is now studying cosmetology (Beauty School Dropout). Danny, who has taken up track in order to win back Sandy's affections, doesn't know that the guys have been challenged to a rumble by Cha-Cha's friends. He's more concerned about patching things up with Sandy at the Twi-Light Drive In, but he moves too fast for her and she leaves (All Alone at a Drive-In Movie).
The "greasers" are having a party, as Doody and Roger sing "Rock and Roll Party Queen." Rizzo is worried that she's pregnant, but she's so mad at Kenickie that she tells him he's not the father. The other kids are sympathetic, but Rizzo rejects their offers of help, especially Sandy's (There Are Worse Things I Could Do). Sandy wonders what she needs to do to fit in at Rydell (Look at Me, I'm Sandra Dee Reprise).
The next time Sandy meets up with the Burger Palace Boys and the Pink Ladies, a transformation has taken place. Sandy is now a greaser's dream date, leaving Danny "All Choked Up." Rizzo is relieved to learn that she isn't pregnant, and she and Kenickie reunite. It's happily-ever-after time for all (We Go Together Reprise).
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Grease is a popular musical by Jim Jacobs and Warren Casey. A very successful film version was made in 1978 starring John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John.
The musical is based around some of the subcultures of 1950s High school America, including the "tough guy" working-class greasers from which the musical takes its name. The musical takes place at fictional Rydell High in Chicago, Illinois. Some of the social issues featured in the musical are teenage pregnancy and gang violence; its themes include love, friendship, rebellion and sexual exploration during adolescence, and, to some degree, class consciousness/class conflict.
The show originated in Chicago and made its premier at The Kingston Mines. The original production was over three hours long and had to be whittled down significantly in between its opening in Chicago and its premier on Broadway. When the show opened on Broadway in 1972, it was well received by the public despite less-than-favorable reviews from critics. Nevertheless, it was nominated for seven Tony Awards and the 1994 revival was nominated for three. In 2003, Grease was voted Best Musical of All-Time in a Channel 4 poll.
A darker, harder-edged portrayal of some of the same subcultures (though slightly later) can be found in S.E. Hinton's novel The Outsiders. Other dramatic portrayals include the classic James Dean movie, Rebel Without A Cause, and the 1957 musical West Side Story.
In November of 2002 Donna Mills revealed to Camille Paglia in an interview that the character of Sandy in Grease was based on her experiences as a Chicago-area teen.
Synopsis:
Act One
With the sound of rock and roll music flowing into our ears, the most colorful members of the class of '59 enter in flashback. The "greasers," comprised of the Burger Palace Boys and the Pink Ladies, are what everyone remembers about their senior year. As they sing Alma Mater Parody, it's easy to see why. Flashback to the first day of senior year, September, 1958. The high school cafeteria bustles with kids groaning about the annual return to lousy food ("You want my coleslaw?") and dreaded teachers ("I got Old Lady Lynch for English again. She hates my guts."). The Pink Ladies sit on one side of the lunchroom, and the Burger Palace Boys sit on the other. There's a new girl in town, Sandy Dumbrowski, who shares with the Pink Ladies - Jan, Marty, Frenchy, and Betty Rizzo--the details of her summer romance.
At the same time, Danny Zuko, leader of the Burger Palace Boys (Roger, Doody, Sonny, and Kenickie), brags about his love conquest (Summer Nights). Sandy and Danny bump into each other, and while Sandy is happy to find her summer love again, Danny blows her off under the guise of being too cool.
When lunch hour ends, rock star wannabe Doody gives an impromptu concert in the hall (Those Magic Changes), making it clear that grades and SAT scores aren't nearly as important as learning to play the guitar. Boys rank even more highly than songs on the Pink Ladies' charts, which is evident at Marty's pajama party, where the girls experiment with cheap wine, cigarettes and pierced ears, and Marty tells about her long-distance courtship with a Marine (Freddy, My Love).
Meanwhile, the Burger Palace Boys are busy drinking cheap beer and daydreaming about easy girls and cool cars (Greased Lightnin'). Sandy is still hurt by Danny's brush off, but when they get a minute alone together Danny tries to explain. Head cheerleader Patty Simcox interrupts to prompt Sandy to join the squad and to tease Danny about his latest indiscretions.
The kids take their newfangled portable radios for a rock and roll picnic in the park and plan how they'll pair off at the upcoming school dance, while Roger shares his love for Jan and his favorite hobby (Mooning). Sandy passes through with valedictorian-to-be (i.e. school nerd) Eugene; she seems to have given up on Danny since she's found out that he has been telling his friends that she's "easy," which is not what a nice girl who almost went to Immaculata likes to have said about her. Rizzo teases Danny for falling for a girl who resembles the excessively proper teenage ingenue, Sandra Dee (Look at Me, I'm Sandra Dee). Sandy interrupts Rizzo's cruelty and realizes Danny is putting her off to be cool, wishing she had him again the way he use to be (Since I Don't Have You). Act I ends with couples finding dates or proclaiming their lack of a date as they sing about how they'll "always be together"(We Go Together).
Act Two
When Act II begins, everyone is Shakin' at the High School Hop - everyone, that is, except Sandy. She's home asking the stars up above why she must be a teenager in love and otherwise feeling sorry for herself (It's Raining on Prom Night). Meanwhile, all the kids are getting their kicks at the hop. The favorite radio DJ of the Burger Palace Boys and the Pink Ladies, Vince Fontaine, is the MC at the dance, which takes place in the gym. He's warming the kids up for a dance contest. Kenickie, who got a blind date after the fight that ended Act I, now dumps her and pairs off with his usual thrill, Rizzo. Danny enters the contest with Kenickie's cast-off, Cha-Cha DeGregorio, and they win (Born to Hand Jive).
A few days later at the Burger Palace after school, a couple of the guys run into Frenchy who flunked out of Rydell and is now studying cosmetology (Beauty School Dropout). Danny, who has taken up track in order to win back Sandy's affections, doesn't know that the guys have been challenged to a rumble by Cha-Cha's friends. He's more concerned about patching things up with Sandy at the Twi-Light Drive In, but he moves too fast for her and she leaves (All Alone at a Drive-In Movie).
The "greasers" are having a party, as Doody and Roger sing "Rock and Roll Party Queen." Rizzo is worried that she's pregnant, but she's so mad at Kenickie that she tells him he's not the father. The other kids are sympathetic, but Rizzo rejects their offers of help, especially Sandy's (There Are Worse Things I Could Do). Sandy wonders what she needs to do to fit in at Rydell (Look at Me, I'm Sandra Dee Reprise).
The next time Sandy meets up with the Burger Palace Boys and the Pink Ladies, a transformation has taken place. Sandy is now a greaser's dream date, leaving Danny "All Choked Up." Rizzo is relieved to learn that she isn't pregnant, and she and Kenickie reunite. It's happily-ever-after time for all (We Go Together Reprise).
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Saturday, August 05, 2006
Auditions in the Mid Hudson Valley August 5, 2006
Rumors
August 8 at 7:30 PM
Brewster Theatre Company
Brewster Library
79 Main Street
Brewster, NY
Directed by: Brian DeToma
Casting: 5 Men, 5 Women (mid-twenties through 50's)
Synopsis: Frantic comedy follows when guests at a party get into a misunderstanding about their hosts.
For more information
-------------------------------------------------
William Shakespeare’s Hamlet
August 6 at 7:00 PM
August 8 at 7:00 PM
Up In One Productions
The Center for Performing Arts in Rhinebeck
Rhinebeck, NY
Directed by: Lou Trapani
Produced by: Diana di Grandi
Production Dates: October 26 – November 5, Fridays through Sundays. There will be 2 to 4 weekday, morning performances during the run for area schools.
Casting: All roles open
Synopsis: Please prepare a one -minute monologue from a Shakespearean Tragedy or History
For Further Information Call: (845) 876 - 5348
-------------------------------------------------
Oliver!
August 5 at 1:00 PM
August 6 at 7:00 PM
Callnacks August 7 at 7:00 PM
Rhinebeck Theater Society
The Center for Performing Arts in Rhinebeck
Rhinebeck, NY
Directed by: Herman Sebek
Produced by: Rich Hack & David Forman
Production Dates: October 6 – October 22, Fridays through Sundays.
Casting: All roles open
Synopsis: Please prepare a song an accompanist will be provided. Also be prepared to dance. Readings will be from the script.
-------------------------------------------------
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August 8 at 7:30 PM
Brewster Theatre Company
Brewster Library
79 Main Street
Brewster, NY
Directed by: Brian DeToma
Casting: 5 Men, 5 Women (mid-twenties through 50's)
Synopsis: Frantic comedy follows when guests at a party get into a misunderstanding about their hosts.
For more information
-------------------------------------------------
William Shakespeare’s Hamlet
August 6 at 7:00 PM
August 8 at 7:00 PM
Up In One Productions
The Center for Performing Arts in Rhinebeck
Rhinebeck, NY
Directed by: Lou Trapani
Produced by: Diana di Grandi
Production Dates: October 26 – November 5, Fridays through Sundays. There will be 2 to 4 weekday, morning performances during the run for area schools.
Casting: All roles open
Synopsis: Please prepare a one -minute monologue from a Shakespearean Tragedy or History
For Further Information Call: (845) 876 - 5348
-------------------------------------------------
Oliver!
August 5 at 1:00 PM
August 6 at 7:00 PM
Callnacks August 7 at 7:00 PM
Rhinebeck Theater Society
The Center for Performing Arts in Rhinebeck
Rhinebeck, NY
Directed by: Herman Sebek
Produced by: Rich Hack & David Forman
Production Dates: October 6 – October 22, Fridays through Sundays.
Casting: All roles open
Synopsis: Please prepare a song an accompanist will be provided. Also be prepared to dance. Readings will be from the script.
-------------------------------------------------
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Today Aug 5 in Broadway History
From Playbill.com:
"1977 All Broadway marquee lights are dimmed tonight in honor of actor Alfred Lunt who died two days earlier. This is only the third time up to that point that such an action has been taken.
1984 Stage star Richard Burton dies today at the age of 58. A well-respected stage and film star, Burton was the original King Arthur opposite the Guinevere of Julie Andrews in the Lerner and Loewe musical, Camelot. Burton's film credits include Cleopatra and Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf? He also appeared on Broadway replacing Anthony Perkins in Equus.
1998 The Broadhurst Theatre temporarily becomes part of the comedy club circuit as Jerry Seinfeld presents his I'm Tellling You for the Last Time for 10 performances in five nights. The comic known for his high-pitched "What's up with that?" style and his television sitcom "Seinfeld" performs some of his best known routines then retires the material, and claims he'll never to do any of the jokes again.
2001 PBS broadcasts a documentary about the making of the cast album of The Producers. Creator Mel Brooks says it's one of the greatest days of his life. "
"1977 All Broadway marquee lights are dimmed tonight in honor of actor Alfred Lunt who died two days earlier. This is only the third time up to that point that such an action has been taken.
1984 Stage star Richard Burton dies today at the age of 58. A well-respected stage and film star, Burton was the original King Arthur opposite the Guinevere of Julie Andrews in the Lerner and Loewe musical, Camelot. Burton's film credits include Cleopatra and Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf? He also appeared on Broadway replacing Anthony Perkins in Equus.
1998 The Broadhurst Theatre temporarily becomes part of the comedy club circuit as Jerry Seinfeld presents his I'm Tellling You for the Last Time for 10 performances in five nights. The comic known for his high-pitched "What's up with that?" style and his television sitcom "Seinfeld" performs some of his best known routines then retires the material, and claims he'll never to do any of the jokes again.
2001 PBS broadcasts a documentary about the making of the cast album of The Producers. Creator Mel Brooks says it's one of the greatest days of his life. "
Friday, August 04, 2006
A Chorus Line Reviews
The first reviews for A Chorus Line revival are online. It is playing at the Curran Theatre in San Francisco, prior to it's start on Broadway in September. So what do the critics have to say ...
Variety, Dennis Harvey writes that "This sturdy revival of "A Chorus Line" has everything going for it except the excitement of discovery, since it's pretty much the same show that opened on Broadway in 1975. Director Bob Avian (then its co-choreographer) faithfully reproduces Michael Bennett's masterful first edition, there's a hard-working and likable new cast, and much of this great musical drama's potency remains intact. But the Gotham-bound show (previews begin Sept. 18 at the Schoenfeld Theatre) has been gone from N.Y. only 16 years and begs the question: Can a verbatim revival conjure enough "event" status to re-conquer Broadway?"
San Francisco Chronicle, Robert Hurwitt writes that "It can't possibly pack the same punch it once did. Its format -- conceived and developed by Bennett from the personal stories of the original company -- is no longer groundbreaking. The sexual content of the dancers' stories, as honed by book writers James Kirkwood and Nicholas Dante, has lost any shock value it once had. The central action of culling a pool of auditioners has become too much a commonplace of a mass culture hooked on casting competitors off islands and winnowing out idols. But the stories retain their appeal and affecting impact, as told with honest simplicity by a very strong cast. The format is refreshingly intimate and focused on basic theatrical values in an age of overblown spectacle and "jukebox" popsicals."
San Jose Mercury News, Karen D'Souza writes that "If the new Broadway-bound revival of `A Chorus Line' got a score card, the dancing would rate a near-perfect 10, the acting a meager 3 and the directing, well, that approaches zero."
Inside the Bay Area, Chad Jones writes that " Desperation never gets old. That's what we learned Wednesday at the Curran Theatre in San Francisco, where the Broadway-bound revival of "A Chorus Line" made its official debut...? One of the dancers in the show whines, "They're not doing big musicals like they used to." That's not exactly true, but what this welcome revival reminds us is that they're not doing shows that make us care nearly as much as "A Chorus Line" does."
Variety, Dennis Harvey writes that "This sturdy revival of "A Chorus Line" has everything going for it except the excitement of discovery, since it's pretty much the same show that opened on Broadway in 1975. Director Bob Avian (then its co-choreographer) faithfully reproduces Michael Bennett's masterful first edition, there's a hard-working and likable new cast, and much of this great musical drama's potency remains intact. But the Gotham-bound show (previews begin Sept. 18 at the Schoenfeld Theatre) has been gone from N.Y. only 16 years and begs the question: Can a verbatim revival conjure enough "event" status to re-conquer Broadway?"
San Francisco Chronicle, Robert Hurwitt writes that "It can't possibly pack the same punch it once did. Its format -- conceived and developed by Bennett from the personal stories of the original company -- is no longer groundbreaking. The sexual content of the dancers' stories, as honed by book writers James Kirkwood and Nicholas Dante, has lost any shock value it once had. The central action of culling a pool of auditioners has become too much a commonplace of a mass culture hooked on casting competitors off islands and winnowing out idols. But the stories retain their appeal and affecting impact, as told with honest simplicity by a very strong cast. The format is refreshingly intimate and focused on basic theatrical values in an age of overblown spectacle and "jukebox" popsicals."
San Jose Mercury News, Karen D'Souza writes that "If the new Broadway-bound revival of `A Chorus Line' got a score card, the dancing would rate a near-perfect 10, the acting a meager 3 and the directing, well, that approaches zero."
Inside the Bay Area, Chad Jones writes that " Desperation never gets old. That's what we learned Wednesday at the Curran Theatre in San Francisco, where the Broadway-bound revival of "A Chorus Line" made its official debut...? One of the dancers in the show whines, "They're not doing big musicals like they used to." That's not exactly true, but what this welcome revival reminds us is that they're not doing shows that make us care nearly as much as "A Chorus Line" does."
Thursday, August 03, 2006
Webber Weighs in On the State of the Theatre
From Daily Mail:
"Theatre impresario Andrew Lloyd Webber has criticised new musicals as uninteresting. The composer, whose hits have included Cats, Phantom of the Opera, and Evita, said today's musicals were all about the "feel-good factor".
He tells the Radio Times that "something completely different needs to happen."
Lord Lloyd Webber, 58, whose revival of Evita has just opened to critical acclaim, says: "Can you name me an interesting new one? The feel-good factor seems to be the main thing."
The multi-millionaire adds: "There's going to be a cataclysmic change in entertainment in the next five years. "
I will agree that today's musicals are obsessed with having a happy ending. Of the shows with other kinds of endings, Little Shop of Horrors is one of my favorites, as is Miss Saigon. They are powerful and make you think. Not to say that I don't enjoy a happy ending from time to time.
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"Theatre impresario Andrew Lloyd Webber has criticised new musicals as uninteresting. The composer, whose hits have included Cats, Phantom of the Opera, and Evita, said today's musicals were all about the "feel-good factor".
He tells the Radio Times that "something completely different needs to happen."
Lord Lloyd Webber, 58, whose revival of Evita has just opened to critical acclaim, says: "Can you name me an interesting new one? The feel-good factor seems to be the main thing."
The multi-millionaire adds: "There's going to be a cataclysmic change in entertainment in the next five years. "
I will agree that today's musicals are obsessed with having a happy ending. Of the shows with other kinds of endings, Little Shop of Horrors is one of my favorites, as is Miss Saigon. They are powerful and make you think. Not to say that I don't enjoy a happy ending from time to time.
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Bemused, Befuddled and Bewildered
I had a pretty interesting day Tuesday, I'm still really gathering myself together from it.
Around 2PM I received a call from the Artistic Director of the Center. He's producing the upcoming CENTERstage production of Grease. He told me that they were looking for a Miss Lynch (the old maid English teacher), and asked if I was interested. I agreed to talk with the director, and she called a few minutes later.
She really wanted someone sixty. As a late twenty-something I can usually pull of 40-ish, as I did for Alma in Music Man. So she asked me to come into rehearsal and read, and we would see how it worked. So Tuesday night I went in and did the scene with the cast. I thought it went well, giving my best interpretation as a prudish older lady.
I'm playing the part. It just happened so quickly I'm a bit bemused ... Flattered, of course, that I was called. Very flattered.
So I'm jumping into rehearsals about halfway through,. 5 weeks before opening. Everyone is supposed to be off book this week, so I'm working on getting my lines memorized, and getting blocked into the scenes. It's a great character part, relatively small, maybe twenty lines and two ensemble songs over three or four scenes.
Grease will be running September 8 -24, 2006.
Technorati tags: Hudson valley theater Broadway Music Musicals Blog Theater Hudson Valley Community Theater Movie Musicals Blogs Entertainment
Around 2PM I received a call from the Artistic Director of the Center. He's producing the upcoming CENTERstage production of Grease. He told me that they were looking for a Miss Lynch (the old maid English teacher), and asked if I was interested. I agreed to talk with the director, and she called a few minutes later.
She really wanted someone sixty. As a late twenty-something I can usually pull of 40-ish, as I did for Alma in Music Man. So she asked me to come into rehearsal and read, and we would see how it worked. So Tuesday night I went in and did the scene with the cast. I thought it went well, giving my best interpretation as a prudish older lady.
I'm playing the part. It just happened so quickly I'm a bit bemused ... Flattered, of course, that I was called. Very flattered.
So I'm jumping into rehearsals about halfway through,. 5 weeks before opening. Everyone is supposed to be off book this week, so I'm working on getting my lines memorized, and getting blocked into the scenes. It's a great character part, relatively small, maybe twenty lines and two ensemble songs over three or four scenes.
Grease will be running September 8 -24, 2006.
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Wednesday, August 02, 2006
Gale's Chicago Review
Chicago, too, is one of my favorite plays. I went to see Chicago on opening night. I did not know that it was opening night when the show started, but by intermission I was quite sure.
The opening night 'flubs' were really quite distracting; perhaps moreso because I do theater and I know how the actors are feeling when things aren't going as planned. There were a couple of 'wardrobe malfunctions' where straps and fasteners were unstrapped and unfastened. A much more distracting event was when the two leading ladies exchanged (or tried to) their jackets for a hat and cane on opposite sides of the stage. Velma (Kat Murello) was successful, but poor Roxie (Elizabeth Thomas) was not. The cast member who was supposed to supply the hat and cane wasn't there. But she just smiled and pretended she had a hat on, and they danced on just the same. Things improved when both ladies went offstage during part of the dance, and Velma ditched her hat and cane. I am curious how things might have gone if both actors had had their props.
Some other goofs were a bit more serious. Velma, mid-dance, shoved a chair away from herself only to have it nearly topple over. Mary Sunshine fell off a chair she was dancing on, and later she actually toppled onto a piece of the set, which overturned and broke. This, being probably the worst gaffe of the night, was the most difficult one to detect. Mary Sunshine, played by K. Archambault, remained totally in character, embarrassed but poised. She was helped up by Billy Flynn (David Rodriguez), who, still singing, never missed a beat. Indeed the only way I could tell that this hadn't been intended was the somewhat broken set piece and the faces of the chorus girls who jumped in to help pick it up.
On the subject of chorus girls- I say chorus girls and not ensemble for one big reason- there were way too many of them. There were six named female characters, cameos I'd say, and another !nine! girls in the ensemble. This was contrasted by the six men I'd consider in the ensemble, that is, the ones that danced. These women filled every corner of the stage, and when they all came out for "Cell Block Tango" I was literally scared by the bitter passion in their voices. Almost all of these women were wonderful to watch, each passionate, each adding something special, each different from the next. But all of them on stage at the same time was just too distracting.
The staging of the show was very interesting. The set design was fantastic. It was a unit set, very little changing from one scene to the next. The whole show flowed together, as it was intended to. The choreography was fantastic. Even a number like "Funny Honey", which, including on broadway, I found incredibly boring to watch, was staged in a way that made it entertaining and wonderful. This was only helped by Elizabeth Thomas, who was fantastic. Her rendition of Roxie was totally different than any other version I've ever seen, either on film or in the theater. I loved it. In fact, she was so good at playing the part that she made the part of Velma seem like a supporting role. Adding to that was the fact that Velma was the only member of the cast who was miked. I found the difference between the acoustical levels very distracting; Velma's voice came at you from the speakers above the stage, while everyone else's voices were heard directly from the stage.
The final point of note was the similarity of this version to that of the recent movie. I think almost every creative thing that could've been taken from the movie version, was taken. From the red scarves in "Cell Block Tango" to the cast as puppets complete with strings in "We Both Reached for the Gun" to the Jury played by one man in many hats, no corners were crimped when it came to making this show as similar to the movie as possible. In some cases, the meaning originally indended in the movie failed to come across in this version. Of course, I loved the movie, but sometimes it's nice to see something a little more original.
All in all, the show is definitely worth seeing. I'm sure the opening night jitters are long gone now, the bugs are all worked out, and the show is perfected. The singing, acting, and dancing are all top notch. If you can, go see it, and let me know what you thought.
The opening night 'flubs' were really quite distracting; perhaps moreso because I do theater and I know how the actors are feeling when things aren't going as planned. There were a couple of 'wardrobe malfunctions' where straps and fasteners were unstrapped and unfastened. A much more distracting event was when the two leading ladies exchanged (or tried to) their jackets for a hat and cane on opposite sides of the stage. Velma (Kat Murello) was successful, but poor Roxie (Elizabeth Thomas) was not. The cast member who was supposed to supply the hat and cane wasn't there. But she just smiled and pretended she had a hat on, and they danced on just the same. Things improved when both ladies went offstage during part of the dance, and Velma ditched her hat and cane. I am curious how things might have gone if both actors had had their props.
Some other goofs were a bit more serious. Velma, mid-dance, shoved a chair away from herself only to have it nearly topple over. Mary Sunshine fell off a chair she was dancing on, and later she actually toppled onto a piece of the set, which overturned and broke. This, being probably the worst gaffe of the night, was the most difficult one to detect. Mary Sunshine, played by K. Archambault, remained totally in character, embarrassed but poised. She was helped up by Billy Flynn (David Rodriguez), who, still singing, never missed a beat. Indeed the only way I could tell that this hadn't been intended was the somewhat broken set piece and the faces of the chorus girls who jumped in to help pick it up.
On the subject of chorus girls- I say chorus girls and not ensemble for one big reason- there were way too many of them. There were six named female characters, cameos I'd say, and another !nine! girls in the ensemble. This was contrasted by the six men I'd consider in the ensemble, that is, the ones that danced. These women filled every corner of the stage, and when they all came out for "Cell Block Tango" I was literally scared by the bitter passion in their voices. Almost all of these women were wonderful to watch, each passionate, each adding something special, each different from the next. But all of them on stage at the same time was just too distracting.
The staging of the show was very interesting. The set design was fantastic. It was a unit set, very little changing from one scene to the next. The whole show flowed together, as it was intended to. The choreography was fantastic. Even a number like "Funny Honey", which, including on broadway, I found incredibly boring to watch, was staged in a way that made it entertaining and wonderful. This was only helped by Elizabeth Thomas, who was fantastic. Her rendition of Roxie was totally different than any other version I've ever seen, either on film or in the theater. I loved it. In fact, she was so good at playing the part that she made the part of Velma seem like a supporting role. Adding to that was the fact that Velma was the only member of the cast who was miked. I found the difference between the acoustical levels very distracting; Velma's voice came at you from the speakers above the stage, while everyone else's voices were heard directly from the stage.
The final point of note was the similarity of this version to that of the recent movie. I think almost every creative thing that could've been taken from the movie version, was taken. From the red scarves in "Cell Block Tango" to the cast as puppets complete with strings in "We Both Reached for the Gun" to the Jury played by one man in many hats, no corners were crimped when it came to making this show as similar to the movie as possible. In some cases, the meaning originally indended in the movie failed to come across in this version. Of course, I loved the movie, but sometimes it's nice to see something a little more original.
All in all, the show is definitely worth seeing. I'm sure the opening night jitters are long gone now, the bugs are all worked out, and the show is perfected. The singing, acting, and dancing are all top notch. If you can, go see it, and let me know what you thought.
Hugh Jackman likely in Carousel
It will be interesting to see this remake - I usually don't enjoy remade musical movies, but I'll wait and see.
From Playbill.com:
"Tony Award winner Hugh Jackman — currently on screens around the country in Woody Allen's "Scoop" — will likely star in a remake of the 1956 film "Carousel," which was based on the 1945 Broadway musical.
Variety reports that Fox 2000 plans to remake the classic Rodgers and Hammerstein musical with Jackman as Billy Bigelow, the role created onstage by John Raitt and on screen by Gordon MacRae. Jackman, according to the industry paper, will produce the film with John Palermo, his Seeds Productions partner. Fox 2000 is currently in negotiations with the Rodgers and Hammerstein Organization to secure the rights to the R&H score."
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From Playbill.com:
"Tony Award winner Hugh Jackman — currently on screens around the country in Woody Allen's "Scoop" — will likely star in a remake of the 1956 film "Carousel," which was based on the 1945 Broadway musical.
Variety reports that Fox 2000 plans to remake the classic Rodgers and Hammerstein musical with Jackman as Billy Bigelow, the role created onstage by John Raitt and on screen by Gordon MacRae. Jackman, according to the industry paper, will produce the film with John Palermo, his Seeds Productions partner. Fox 2000 is currently in negotiations with the Rodgers and Hammerstein Organization to secure the rights to the R&H score."
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Tuesday, August 01, 2006
Nielsen Takes on Broadway
Well the Theater Bloggers are a buzz. Today's New York Times featured an article today about Nielson (yup the TV Nielson's Ratings) It's all about how Broadway is starting to use some data mining techniques to determine how a show markets to theatergoers. The responses of the Thespian Bloggers is all over the place. Some are outraged, some are apathetic, but almost everyone has weighed in on the issue.
I think the measurement part is good. With millions of dollars being spent to put on Broadway show, I think some research is in order. This need not effect the art itself, just determine who would be best served by the play and help producers target the right groups of people.
However, I can see the abuses that the system may bring about. Imagine playwrights being told that they had to change a character because the audience didn't like him. I don't believe this extreme will occur.
Broadway is now competing with so many other medias. Younger theatergoers view it much as any other entertainment, not in a category apart like culture. So to continue to serve the public it needs to evolve. My hope is that it will strike a balance between the art that we all love, and something that will continue to appeal to future generations.
I encourage you to see what other bloggers have been saying:
The Nielsens of Theatre (i.e. Nielsen) - Playgoer
The Masscult, Branding and Marketing - On Theatre and Politics - Matthew Freeman
Nielson Ratings & Commercial Attributes II: Steven Gridley and Supply & Demand - Jamespeak The Quantification of Quality - Superfluties by George Hunka
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I think the measurement part is good. With millions of dollars being spent to put on Broadway show, I think some research is in order. This need not effect the art itself, just determine who would be best served by the play and help producers target the right groups of people.
However, I can see the abuses that the system may bring about. Imagine playwrights being told that they had to change a character because the audience didn't like him. I don't believe this extreme will occur.
Broadway is now competing with so many other medias. Younger theatergoers view it much as any other entertainment, not in a category apart like culture. So to continue to serve the public it needs to evolve. My hope is that it will strike a balance between the art that we all love, and something that will continue to appeal to future generations.
I encourage you to see what other bloggers have been saying:
The Nielsens of Theatre (i.e. Nielsen) - Playgoer
The Masscult, Branding and Marketing - On Theatre and Politics - Matthew Freeman
Nielson Ratings & Commercial Attributes II: Steven Gridley and Supply & Demand - Jamespeak The Quantification of Quality - Superfluties by George Hunka
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On stage in the Hudson Valley of New York August 2 - 6
Lots of Choices this weekend at the local theaters in the Mid Hudson Valley. I'll be at Chicago on Sunday! Beat the heat - go see a show!
Karaoke
August 2, August 23 at 9:00 PM
The Center for Performing Arts in Rhinebeck
Route 308
Rhinebeck, NY
Call: (845) 876-3080
Chicago
August 3, 4, 5, 10, 11, 12 at 8:00 PM
August 6, 13 at 3:00 PM
Up In One Productions
The Center for Performing Arts in Rhinebeck
Route 308
Rhinebeck, NY
Call: (845) 876-3080
Orphan Train
Aug 4, 5, 6
Stage to Screen
Cunneen-Hackett Arts Center
Poughkeepsie, NY
Call: (845) 486-4571
A Moon for the Misbegotten
Aug 4, 5, 11, 12 at 8:00 PM
BeBa Theatre Arts
Church of the Ascension Parish Hall
1585 Route 9W
West Park, NY
Call: (845) 384-6723
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Karaoke
August 2, August 23 at 9:00 PM
The Center for Performing Arts in Rhinebeck
Route 308
Rhinebeck, NY
Call: (845) 876-3080
Chicago
August 3, 4, 5, 10, 11, 12 at 8:00 PM
August 6, 13 at 3:00 PM
Up In One Productions
The Center for Performing Arts in Rhinebeck
Route 308
Rhinebeck, NY
Call: (845) 876-3080
Orphan Train
Aug 4, 5, 6
Stage to Screen
Cunneen-Hackett Arts Center
Poughkeepsie, NY
Call: (845) 486-4571
A Moon for the Misbegotten
Aug 4, 5, 11, 12 at 8:00 PM
BeBa Theatre Arts
Church of the Ascension Parish Hall
1585 Route 9W
West Park, NY
Call: (845) 384-6723
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Woodstock Fringe Festival starts this weekend.
This Friday, the Woodstock Fringe, a month long festival of experimental theater and music, opens for it's fourth Season! It features the premiere of Unheard Of! A Musical Revue. It features a wide range of programming everything from Tiny Ninja Theatre's production of Hamlet to Michael Fosberg's Incognito and Science Friction Orchestra. This festival provides a special opportunity for writers, directors and performing artists.
Tickets are $20 for adults and $17 for students and seniors. A "fringe pass," good for admission to all 10 festival performances, is $50. Woodstock Fringe takes place at the Byrdcliffe Theater, Upper Byrdcliffe Road, in Woodstock, through september. 3.
For more information, including the performance schedule and tickets, You can call 845-810-0123 or visit www.woodstockfringe.org.
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Tickets are $20 for adults and $17 for students and seniors. A "fringe pass," good for admission to all 10 festival performances, is $50. Woodstock Fringe takes place at the Byrdcliffe Theater, Upper Byrdcliffe Road, in Woodstock, through september. 3.
For more information, including the performance schedule and tickets, You can call 845-810-0123 or visit www.woodstockfringe.org.
Technorati tags: Hudson valley theater Broadway Music Musicals Blog Theater Hudson Valley Community Theater Movie Musicals Blogs Entertainment
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