Sunday, October 28, 2012
44 Plays for 44 Presidents - A Presidential Song & Dance
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| Allison Volk and Steve Madar Share the Presidential Coat in 44 Plays for 44 Presidents |
With the 2012 Presidential Election less than two weeks away, it’s hard not to tire of the onslaught of political ads, social media overwhelm, and numerous other efforts determined to sway public opinion. On TV, radio, billboards, and coming to you in the mail…their messages are everywhere. But regardless of which party you are affiliated with, or which of the candidates you choose to endorse, the most important message is that you get out and exercise your constitutional right to vote.
Drive Theatre Company is doing its best to ensure that people are prepared to vote by presenting 44 Plays for 44 Presidents as part of the Plays for Presidents Festival 2012. The festival is a national collaboration of theatre and educational artists designed to help audiences appreciate the power of democracy and the responsibility of the electorate. The Electoral College may have chosen the first President of the United States but ever since, We the People gather every four years to have our say.
In 44 Plays, each president is featured in a 2-minute or less mini-play based on something memorable from his Presidency or the time leading up to it. The chronology begins with George Washington and ends with the opportunity to vote for the candidate the audience thinks will win the upcoming election. The plays range from the humorous to the dramatic, and incorporate music, dance, famous quotes, historical data, and even audience participation. Some of the information presented is expected, such as John Adams’ tendency to talk endlessly or FDR’s pledge to help the American people with his New Deal.
Others are less well known, like John Tyler’s elevation from Vice President to President due to the death of William Henry Harrison only 32 days after he took office or that Ulysses Grant, known as “the butcher,” died penniless after investing in a business overseen by his corrupt friends that went bankrupt.
To help the audience follow the brisk changes from one scene to the next, a photo of the featured president and his dates in office is shown in the background. A quote sign flashes when famous statements made by the presidents are proffered and a cast of five (Mark Jacobson, Steve Madar, Tory Smith, Allison Volk, and Karina Wolfe) takes on all the roles to mixed results.
Line fumbles and props that didn’t stay put interfered with timing on the night I attended the show and as the stage floor became increasingly littered with money, popped balloons, and other props I found myself more concerned with the actors’ safety than anything else. The show’s pace is a veritable speed-thru and more than once an actor slipped, tripped, or seemed not quite in control of the surroundings. What should have looked effortless instead felt haphazard especially undermining the comedy.
More effective were some of the serious vignettes like Madison’s, narrated solemnly but presented in silence with large cards doubling the narration for emphasis, and the scene that asked where we were when the news of JFK’s assassination was reported. The actors grouped silently around the old television set with the glow from the black & white picture shining off their faces was eerily effective.
I commend Drive Theatre Company for its partnership with Rock the Vote to provide live voter registration and to create a dialogue that helps people make an informed choice for the upcoming election. Their presentation of 44 Plays is one of over 44 productions of the piece taking place across the country as part of the Plays for Presidents Festival.
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| Karina Wolfe wakes up from a nightmare |
Directed by Doug Oliphant with music direction by Aaron Beaumont. Musical compositions and arrangements by Steve Goers, Laura McKenzie, Andre Pleuss & Allison Volk. Originally produced by The Neo-Futurists of Chicago.
44 Plays for 44 PresidentsNow through November 6, 2012
Drive Theatre Company at the Attic Theatre
5429 W. Washington Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90016
Click Here for tickets ($15).
www.drivetheatre.org
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What’s Happening Around Town for October 28, 2012
It began 60 years ago with eight guys sitting around a poker table in a smoke-filled room on a Monday night, trying to figure out what to do with $600. Typically, they’d throw themselves a year-end bash with the money they put aside from each pot at their weekly poker game. But the talk had gotten around to doing something different that year – something for someone else. And that’s exactly what they did. 60 years later Help Youth Charities Fund has raised over $ 4.5 Million dollars towards its charter cause. "Helping handicapped and underprivileged children of every race, color & creed." This year they guys are putting up Mel Brooks’ The Producers November 1 -11 at the ACME Comedy Theatre on La Brea. The entire production is volunteer driven & ALL funds raised through the production will go towards our mission of helping the kids! Some past projects & programs funded include:
-Therapeutic Swimming pool for Physically Challenged Youth
-Training kitchen for multi-disability blind children.
-Woodworking shop to rehabilitate street kids.
-A voice synthesizer for a teenager without any vocal chords.
-Construction of special needs playground for disabled kids.
Tickets are $20 online at www.acmecomedy.com/tickets.htm and $25 at the door. Get them now!
HAIR
The Grove Theatre in Upland announces auditions for HAIR on Saturday, November 3rd from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm. at 276 E. Ninth Street in downtown Upland. Callbacks, by invitation, will be held on Sunday, November 4th from 2:00 - 4:00 pm. All roles are being cast (Ages 18+). For information go to www.grovetheatre.com. Prepare 16 bars of a pop or rock song (no traditional Broadway tunes) that shows vocal range. Bring a headshot and resume. The auditions are being held at The Grove Theatre, 276 E. Ninth Street, Upland, CA 91786.
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Kritzerland at Sterling’s Upstairs at The Federal presents Mostly Rodgers & Hammerstein (with a little Hart and a little Sondheim) hosted by Bruce Kimmel Sunday, November 4th at 7pm. The show stars Stuart Ambrose, Dennis Kyle, Lisa Livesay, Jane Noseworthy, Shannon Warne, and special guest Alvin Ing, with musical direction by Lloyd Cooper. Our last few shows have been jam-packed so early reservations are recommended by calling 818 754-8700. Dinner reservations: From 5:30 pm – 6:00 pm. Cover charge $15 + $10 food minimum + $3 facility charge. Sterling’s at The Federal, 5303 Lankershim Blvd., North Hollywood, CA 91601. Parking is available – entrance for Federal lot is on Weddington Street (directly behind the building). http://www.msapr.net/Sterling-s-at-The-Federal.html
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Whether these iconic songs are performed by someone with the wrong skill set, gender, race, or age, they will all be hilariously... Miscast! Proceeds go to "Project Angel Food" whose mission is to bring nourishment to those living with AIDS, cancer or other life threatening diseases. This Miscast on November 5th will feature Mandy Kaplan, Jennifer Hall, Will Collyer, Thomas Threats, Christopher Carlisle, Rob Blatt, Mona Chatterjee, Jay Marcus, Tommy Metz, Netta Most, and Brett Ryback on piano. Door opens at 7:00 pm. Show starts at 7:30 pm on the dot! Drinks and food after. Click Here for more details.
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The musical mash-up parody that rocked the Cavern Club Theatre at Casita del Campo this August returns for another limited engagement at the Hudson Theatre in Hollywood. Loosely based on Judy Blume’s popular coming of age novel published in 1970, this musical parody lovingly recalls the sights, sentiments and sounds of the era. This version will also feature music from the cherished holiday album, Carpenters Christmas Portrait. Conceived, written and directed by Dane Whitlock with choreography by Kim Hale, Are You There God? It’s Me, Karen Carpenter features Carey Peters, Jennifer Blake and Drew Droege. Friday and Saturday evenings at 8pm and Sundays at 3 pm at The Hudson Theatres, 6539 Santa Monica Blvd., Hollywood, CA, 90038. Tickets ($20) are available at www.plays411.com/karencarpenter.
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Falcon Theatre is proud to present Troubadour Theater Company’s Rudolph the Red-Nose ReinDOORS, directed by Matt Walker. Celebrate the Season with a wild, stripped-down, bare bones, rock re-telling of the classic holiday tale of Rudolph, with a sexy, sultry, scary soundtrack - and snow. It's Strange Days in the North Pole when a reindeer named Rudolph is born with a glowing red nose. Finding no Hello I Love You at the Reindeer Games, Rudolph is left alone with his Roadhouse Blues. Only when he meets the darling doe Clarice, does he proclaim, "You Light My Fire!" But can Rudolph save Christmas by leading the Reindeer Riders On The Storm and help Santa Break On Through the blizzard? Whip up some season cheer in your Soul Kitchen and meet the Troubies down on Love Street for an unforgettable show - you're sure to Love Her Madly! The show runs November 28 – January 6, with opening night on Friday, December 7, 2012 at 8pm. Tickets go on sale November 6th at www.FalconTheatre.com or by calling (818) 955-8101.
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The Grove Theatre presents A Really, Really Good Time, Holly Jolly Christmas Carol, by Mary Willard, starring Fred Willard as E.B. Scrooge. The time is December 20, 2012 and the United States Superstar Show has really, really gone into overtime. It is to air Christmas Eve night but E.B. Scrooge is not happy with any of the people auditioning. E.B. is even more irritated, aggravated and riled up with everyone and everything...the talent, the set, the workers and most of all Bobby Cratchit, his right hand man. After an exhausting day he returns to his apartment where he is visited by the Ghost of Johnny Carson. Johnny tells him he will be visited by three spirits who will help him become the man that Johnny knows he can become. Performances begin Friday, November 30, and end Sunday, December 16. Tickets can be purchased by calling the Box Office at (909) 920-4343, or by visiting www.grovetheatre.com.
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Labels: cavern club, kritzerland, the grove theatre, troubies. falcon theatre
SAVE THE COLONY THEATRE Campaign Announced
I love this theatre. If you can help, now's the time.
The Colony Theatre has announced an emergency “Save the Colony” campaign so that it can remain open after an illustrious 37-year history of continuous production. The award-winning theatre, founded in 1975, must raise $49,000 in just under two weeks and $500,000, including pledges, by year’s end in order to meet financial obligations and remain open to the Los Angeles theatre-going public. Artistic Director Barbara Beckley cites the economic downturn that began in 2008 as the cause of reductions in charitable support and audience size, resulting in a budget shortfall that has recently become crippling. The Colony needs immediate support from L.A.’s arts-loving community to complete this year’s season and continue operations going forward.
"We are very proud of the tremendous popular and artistic success the Colony has achieved, but we have simply run out of money," said Beckley, who was one of the theatre’s founders. "The economy has been particularly hard on institutions such as ours, with far too many of America’s stages having already gone dark. Now that our dire financial situation has become public, we are hopeful that the theatre-loving public will step forward in a meaningful way to keep our theatre alive." She adds "We have already notified our subscribers, as they are our most loyal audience, and we wanted them to know first."
"Like all non-profit theatres, we cannot subsist solely on subscriptions and ticket sales," added the Colony’s Executive Director, Trent Steelman. "We have made all the operational cuts we can without harming the quality of our shows. Now we are at the point that, if we are unable to raise the necessary funds, we will be forced to suspend operations indefinitely. This announcement is something we never wanted to do, but we hope it will now prove to be an opportunity to turn things around so that the Colony can be put on sound footing for the long term."
Steelman added "Barbara and I have both forgone our salaries for many months, wiped out our personal savings, and maxed our personal credit cards in an effort to keep us alive. It's only now that we are asking the public to come to our aid."
The Colony Theatre Company began as a 99-seat Equity-waiver theatre in Silver Lake. Over the years the company was so successful artistically, and built such a large subscriber base, that in 2000 it was able to move into a 270-seat state-of-the-art theatre created for it by the City of Burbank. As such, it became one of only a handful of mid-sized professional theatres in the L.A. area that produce a year-round season of plays and musicals, and that employ actors under contract with Actors' Equity Association. Its current season features two Los Angeles premieres, three West Coast premieres, and a World Premiere musical.
For more information about the “Save the Colony Theatre” campaign, contact Trent Steelman at 818-558-7000 x 12 or at trentsteelman@colonytheatre.org. The Colony Theatre is located at 555 North Third Street, at the corner of Cypress, in the heart of the Burbank Media Center. www.colonytheatre.org.
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Labels: colony theatre
Thursday, October 25, 2012
How Many Bad Apples Does It Take To Spoil The Whole Bunch?
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| From left (standing): Anthony Manough, James Black, Kate Morgan Chadwick, and Mueen Jahan. (Seated) Sean Spann and Ian Merrigan. Photo by Jeff Galfer |
The disturbing events uncovered at Abu Ghraib prison in Iraq brought to light a prisoner abuse scandal that shocked the world. No one could understand how such atrocities could be committed by American soldiers; how such flagrant disregard for life could result in the kind of human indignities shown in photographs taken by the very soldiers who committed the heinous acts.
In its latest production, Circle X Theatre Co. is examining the question of how such abuse could occur with a fictionalized look at the motivations of three soldiers based on those who were at the center of the real life scandal. The volatile subject matter considers the question, “Do you love me enough to torture for me?” but extending it out over a lengthy three acts with two intermissions works to its disadvantage, dissipating energy rather than creating the mounting tension needed to reach a satisfactory climax.
Publicized as a world premiere musical, Bad Apples is really a play with songs rather than a book musical, and is written by playwright Jim Leonard with music & lyrics by songwriter Beth Thornley and film/TV composer Rob Cairns. The songs do not advance the story line for the most part, but instead serve as moments of reflection by the singers, or at other times, as a way to set the tone of a scene.
The hip hop and rap numbers are the most successful with their dark intensity and hypnotic, percussive rhythms. The strongest happen early in the show and create an imposing atmosphere in combination with Françoise-Pierre Couture’s multi-leveled runway set design rimmed with prison bars and onstage band in a cage. Folksy tunes, ballads, and acoustic songs offer contrast but the point is made almost immediately with each one and they could easily be abridged, or in some cases eliminated, to keep the pace of the show from languishing. More than once I wondered if Bad Apples might not be better served by eliminating all but a few of the songs and returning to a play format.
An expert cast directed by John Langs handles the sensitive material with assurance. Charismatic James Black is Sgt. Chuck Shepard, the soldier who convinces both Kate Morgan Chadwick (Pvt. Lindsay Skinner) and Meghan McDonough (Lt. Scott), to become his lover, resulting in two pregnancies at approximately the same time. Chadwick is especially compelling in her portrayal because we are never quite sure whether she is being naïvely drawn in because of love or whether her growing indifference to the whole experience of war stems from her upbringing. The relationship that develops between the two women gets more stage time than the actual progression of what makes any of them engage in torture. It’s clear how and why they all become involved as lovers. What’s not clear is how that leads to torturing prisoners of war.
Ian Merrigan is strong as the guitar-playing petty PFC Curt Lingus. Larry Clarke, Sean Spann, Mueen Jahan, Lauren Hillman, Mapuana Makia, Lina Patel, and Anthony Manough all excel in multiple roles. Happily, we also get to hear Manough’s terrific tenor voice.
But for all the outstanding performances, and even sitting close to the action at one of the front and center cabaret tables nearest the stage on a sold-out night, I couldn’t figure out why I wasn’t more emotionally engaged. Instead I felt distanced from the action and from the very characters I was trying to understand.
Since the play is staged and the room designed as a cabaret venue, why not use the intimacy of that space to connect with the audience in a more personal way, especially when the characters sing. That’s why people go to a cabaret club, after all. Perhaps I was trying to sort out too many different stories or perhaps it was an intentional lack on Leonard's part to lead me to a specific conclusion, but I was no more able to answer the question of why Abu Ghraib could have happened at the end of the three hours than when the play began. Maybe in the end it’s not one or two big happenings that contribute to the loss of human decency but a more subtle insidious series of events that build upon each other until something snaps. You be the judge.
Bad Apples
by Jim Leonard
Music & Lyrics by Beth Thornley and Rob Cairns
Directed by John Langs
Now through December 1, Fridays and Saturdays at 8pm and Sundays at 2pm at Circle X Theatre Co., Atwater Village Theatre, 3269 Casitas Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90039. Tickets: (323) 644-929 or online at www.circlextheatre.org.
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Labels: circle x
Sunday, October 21, 2012
What's Happening Around Town for October 21
Independent Shakespeare Co. presents a new musical based on an old case, Red Barn, written by David Melville, directed by Melissa Chalsma and starring David Bickford, Robert Alan Beuth, Mary Guiliiams, Matthew Michael Hurley, Aisha Kabia, David Melville, Ashley Nguyen, Nikhil Pai, Dana Pollak, Erika Soto, Claudia de Vasco. Writer David Melville grew up hearing the true story of an 1826 murder in a nearby village. The mole-catcher’s daughter and the son of a wealthy landowner had an illicit affair. She became pregnant. What followed involved extraordinary subterfuge, a former convict of an Australian Penal Colony, a school for young girls, a wife located via an ad in the London Times, and 20,000 people attending the public execution of William Corder. October 25-November 18, Thursdays, Fridays & Saturdays at 8pm, Sundays at 3pm, www.iscla.org. Click Here for a sample of the music.
An evening of music from The Rocky Horror Show featuring an All-Star cast will take place on Saturday, October 27 – two shows at 9pm and 11pm. Proceeds from the event will go to support The Midnight Mission which provides life necessities and job placement for the homeless. Tickets will be available at the door and are a $15 suggested donation. Musical direction is by Jake Anthony and choreography by Lindsay Martin, featuring Christa Hamilton, Michael Montiel, Mark Torres, Corey Affron, Janet Paraiso, Ben Hensley, Paul Hovannes, Nick Menecola, and Lindsay Martin. Archway Studio/Theatre, 305 South Hewitt St., Los Angeles, CA 90013.
The Coterie is proud to present Boston Legal star Ryan Michelle Bathe in the world premiere of How to Train Your Diva, October 27 at 8:30 pm. Join Ryan Michelle Bathe as she recounts some of the drama and destiny that has been her journey as an actress and singer in New York and Hollywood. Click Here for tickets.
San Diego Musical Theatre announces the final production of their 2012 season, Irving Berlin’s White Christmas, December 13 - 23 at the Birch North Park Theatre. Based on the beloved, timeless film, this heartwarming musical adaption features seventeen Irving Berlin songs and will star David Engel, Laura Dickinson, Jeffrey Parsons, Jill Townsend. Veterans Bob Wallace and Phil Davis have a successful song-and-dance act after World War II. With romance in mind, the two follow a duo of beautiful singing sisters en route to their Christmas show at a Vermont lodge, which just happens to be owned by Bob and Phil’s former army commander. The dazzling score features well known standards including "Blue Skies," "I Love A Piano," "How Deep Is the Ocean" and the perennial favorite, "White Christmas." Directed by Todd Nielsen with choreography by Lisa Hopkins and musical direction by Don LeMaster. www.sdmt.org
Christmas My Way - A Sinatra Holiday Bash! starring Luca Ellis, Jason Graae, Heather Lee, and Beth Malone, directed by David Grapes with musical direction by Vince di Mura, will play the El Portal Theatre December 15 – 31, 2012, with low price previews December 13 & 14 and special New Year’s Eve performances on December 31. Conceived by David Grapes and Todd Olson with a book by Olson and original musical and vocal arrangements by Vince di Mura, the show serves up cool versions of Sinatra mainstays like "Fly Me To The Moon," "New York, New York," "That¹s Life," and "The Lady is a Tramp". Joined by a swingin’ live band, they make a little hey-hey with groovy versions of such Sinatra Christmas hits like "Mistletoe and Holly," "The Christmas Song," and "I'll Be Home for Christmas." So, Ring-a-ding-ding! And get set for a fresh, knocked-out coo-coo Sinatra Christmas, with 40 classic hits perfect for the holidays. For Tickets call 818-508-4200, 866-811-4111 or go to www.elportaltheatre.com.
Family ticket packages are now available for A Snow White Christmas with prices starting at $99.00 for a four-ticket package. The show will run December 13 - 23 with a gala press opening night on Wednesday, December 12 at 7:00 pm at The Pasadena Playhouse. An updated version of the classic tale, in the style of a traditional British family Panto, A Snow White Christmas features family-friendly magic with a comedic twist, dancing, a live miniature pony and contemporary music. A Panto is known for its interactive style and humor that appeals to everyone from ages 2 - 102! Before every performance, guests and their families are invited to enjoy a “Winter Wonderland” event in The Playhouse’s Engemann Family Courtyard, complete with holiday music, crafts, activities, games and photo opportunities. www.pasadenaplayhouse.org
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Labels: coterie, el portal theatre, isc, pasadena playhouse, san diego musical theatre
Tuesday, October 16, 2012
What's Happening Around Town for October 16
ExtensionsThird Street Theatre has extended its highly successful production of The Full Monty, directed by Richard Israel and playing at the Third Street Theatre. www.showclix.com The show will now run through Sunday, November 11th…The Best Goes On!, which just had its opening night on October 12th has also announced that it will extend its run through November 25th. http://www.seniortheatre.com/the-pink-lady-jackie-goldberg
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Hollywood’s Blank Theatre is holding a craft beer festival to be held on the ‘Streets of New York’ backlot at Paramount Studios on Saturday, Oct. 20 from 2 -5 pm. Hollywood On Tap will feature over 40 popular craft brews, live music from emerging talent, and many of LA’s best food trucks. All proceeds will benefit The Blank Theatre. www.hollywoodontap.com
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MTG's Call Me Madam Cast
Musical Theatre Guild has announced the cast for its concert reading of Call Me Madam. Performances will take place on Monday, Nov. 19 at 7:30 pm at Glendale’s Alex Theatre and Sunday, Nov. 25 at 3:00 pm at Thousand Oaks Civic Arts Plaza’s Scherr Forum. John Bowab directs, with musical direction by Eddy Clement and choreography by Jane Lanier. The cast features Eileen Barnett, Jill Marie Burke, Christopher Carothers, Robin DeLano, Helen Geller, Gordon Goodman, Steven Hack, David Holmes, William Martinez, Mark C. Reis, Jennifer Shelton and Kevin Symons, with guest artists Nicholas Gutierrez, Daron O’Donnell, Cody Rogers, Daniel Switzer and Estevan Valdes. www.musicaltheatreguild.com♫ ♫ ♫ ♫ ♫ ♫ ♫ ♫ ♫ ♫
Barry Edelstein has been appointed the new Artistic Director of The Old Globe in San Diego. A nationally-recognized director, producer, author and educator, Edelstein will work together with Managing Director Michael G. Murphy to lead San Diego’s flagship arts institution. Currently the Director of The Public Theater’s Shakespeare Initiative in New York City, Edelstein will assume the artistic directorship of The Old Globe on Nov. 1 and will reside full-time in San Diego in January 2013.
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Jesus Christ Superstar
Jesus Christ Superstar, brought to you by NCM Fathom Events, Omniverse Vision, and The Broadway League, is coming to movie theaters nationwide on Monday, October 29 and Thursday, November 1 at 7:30 pm local time. The presentation will begin with an exclusive historical retrospective on this iconic rock opera, complete with interviews with cast members from past and present. www.fathomevents.com
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Monday, October 15, 2012
For This Over 60 Crowd, The Beat Goes On
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| From left: Bobbi Stamm, Carmelita Pittman, Phyllis Lovit, Tammy Reed, Michele Bernath, and Anna Pagan. Photos by Guy Mack |
Fourteen actors between the ages of 60 and 79 sing and dance their hearts out for the sheer love of performing in The Beat Goes On!, Jackie Goldberg’s bright and bouncy song and dance revue that proves you’re as young as you feel so put on your tap shoes and get ready to make the most of it. This is the fourth show that the Pink Lady has produced in four years, and while it may at times remind you of its humble talent show beginnings, with director/choreographer Cate Caplin at the helm it will also surprise you with its polish and precision. Flashy ensemble numbers full of impressive choreography, specialty songs with vaudevillian flair, and an abundance of showmanship keep this deck stacked for fun.
The story finds the gang rehearsing for a live show that gets cancelled mid-number leaving them disappointed and unsure of what to do next. Rather than give up on their dreams, they rally together to prepare for new auditions. When they hear that a big time Hollywood producer is coming to town, they get ready to strut their stuff for this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Who knows what can happen...
Without a song list I'm not sure who to credit for all of the performances but highlights that I particularly enjoyed were an up-tempo ‘30s-flavored “Use What You Got” featuring the men, a smooth Fred & Ginger duet to “You Make Me Feel So Young” with Deborah and William Bartlett, an on-fire brassy version of “Evil Man,” a silly and endearing “Hernando’s Hideaway,” Larry Lederman’s charming “Give Me A Kiss To Build A Dream On” with an unusual dance partner, a moving recreation of Judy Garland and Barbra Streisand’s famous duet “Get Happy/ Happy Days Are Here Again,” and a jewel of a tap number featuring Bartlett as a sailor with a clever series of partners.
The arrangements are by musical director, David O. (on keyboards), who creates distinctive personalities with every song - sultry sax licks in a torch song, twinkling flute runs for innocence, the fluttery sound of a player piano, or a boogie-woogie transition and percussion underscoring that fills the room with energy. Mark Breitenbach (bass), Adrienne Geffen (woodwinds) and Kurt Walther (drums), make up rest of the terrific band.
The Beat Goes On! is two parts musical revue and one part motivational shot in the arm - not surprising since Goldberg is also an in-demand speaker who gives seminars on how to lead a fulfilling life as you hit 60 and beyond. Her message to be good to yourself and do what you love shines through every scene. Life is about dreaming big and becoming all you can be, and these entertainers are proof positive that you can still sell a song, do the splits, belt a high note, and dance a romance no matter what your age.
Opening night cast: Deborah Bartlett, William Bartlett, Richard Fox, Michelle Gillette, Larry Lederman, Derrel Maury, Vernon McGhee, Dominick Morra, Anna Pagan, Tamara Reed, Lani Ridley Pedrini, Marcia Rodd, Kit Smythe, Bobbie Stamm, Robert Towers, and Jackie Goldberg.
THE BEAT GOES ON
Extended through November 25, 2012
Written, directed & choreographed by Cate Caplin
Musical direction and arrangements by David O.
Executive Producer, Jackie Goldberg
Scene Design – Keith Mitchell, Lighting Design – Jared A. Sayeg, Costume Design – Ann Closs-Farley, Sound Design – Cricket Myers
Theatre of Arts - Arena Stage, 1625 N. Las Palmas Avenue, Hollywood, CA 90028. Click Here for tickets or call (818) 606-6679.
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Thursday, October 11, 2012
What’s Happening Around Town for October 11
After selling out its last three shows in August, The Real Drunk Housewives of the San Fernando Valley -- a musical take-off on Bravo’s Real Housewives franchise -- returns for a six-week run in Hollywood beginning Saturday, October 13 at 8pm at Oh My Ribs Theatre, 6468 Santa Monica Blvd. The comical revue, loaded with song, dance, drink and adults-only language, features an upbeat disco score by Kelly Holden-Bashar and Bill Haller and songs such as; “Champagne,” “We’re Alive (As Long As There’s A Bravo),” “The End of Sober,” and the botox-infused hit “Better Than I’ve Ever Been.” The cast features Robyn Roth, Leah Allers, Chris Caldwell-Eckert, Leah Mangum as Rene, Jen Rhonheimer, Shelley Dennis, and Ana Cristina. Saturdays at 8pm, Oct. 13, 20, 27 and Nov. 3, 10, 17. Click Here for tickets. Click Here for more information and to watch a video clip from the show.
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CHICAGO Auditions
San Diego Musical Theatre is holding auditions for Kander & Ebb’s CHICAGO directed by Ron Kellum, choreographed by Randy Slovack, and with musical direction by Don LeMaster. Guest Artist Contract AEA: $400.00 weekly. Non-Equity: There is pay. First Rehearsal: Equity - January 29, 2013, Non-Equity - January 22, 2013. Show dates: February 15 - March 3, 2013
Monday, October 29 - Los Angeles Open Dance Call
10:00 am: Ladies Dance Call
3:00 pm: Men's Dance Call
Madilyn Clark Studios, 10852 Burbank Boulevard, North Hollywood, CA 91601
10:00 am: Ladies Dance Call
3:00 pm: Men's Dance Call
SDMT Office, 4652 Mercury Street, San Diego, CA 92111
Please call to make a "Principal" audition appointment by calling 858-560-5740
Callbacks: Thursday, November 1
SDMT Office, 4652 Mercury Street, San Diego, CA 92111
Everyone will dance except for those auditioning for Billy Flynn, Momma Morton, Amos Hart and Mary Sunshine. Anyone being considered for Roxy or Velma must attend one of the Dance Calls, not the Principal call. For the Dance Call please come in only form fitting blacks, women in character heels. If asked to sing after the Dance Call, prepare 16-32 bars in style of the show (Kander & Ebb). Bring sheet music in the correct key and two headshots and resumes. Performances: Birch North Park Theatre, San Diego, California
Roxie Hart: Age 25-40. Innocent, sexy, desperate, selfish. Roxie is not very bright and never thinks about the consequences of her actions before she says or does things. Every move is selfish, every idea foolish and ill-considered, and yet she remains strangely sympathetic because we know her selfishness is not malicious; but childish. All Roxie cares about is getting into Vaudeville. Needs to be a strong actress, singer and dancer. (mezzo)
Velma Kelly: Age 25-45. Sarcastic, sexy, tough, funny. Velma is a former vaudeville performer who also serves as the hostess. She often talks directly to the audience. She killed her husband and her sister after finding them together. Used to being the "headliner" she learns to hold her tongue and make nice to save her vaudeville career. Needs to be a strong actress, singer and dancer. (alto)
Billy Flynn: Age 35-60. Sexy, persuasive, manipulative, masculine. Billy is a suave, educated lawyer who can persuade anyone to do anything. Billy will take any case as long as it is sure to put money in his pocket. Billy is a lot like a Hollywood Agent. Needs to be a strong character actor who can sing and move well. (tenor)
Amos Hart: Age 30-50. Charming, funny, vulnerable, timid man. Amos is an average guy. Manipulated easily, Amos is the only character in Chicago whose motives are entirely pure, never selfish and he's the only character who really loses ultimately. Strong character actor who can sing well. (baritone)
Matron “Mama” Morton: Sexy, funny, powerful and tough. The matron of the Cook County Jail who believes that all favors she gives should be reciprocated or paid for. If Billy is the Agent, Mama would be considered the Manager. Needs to be strong character actor who can sing well. (alto)
Mary Sunshine: Any age. Looking for a male soprano or counter tenor who can sing legitimately up to a high B flat who must play a woman with the image of a good natured talk show hostess but is actually a high powered gossip columnist. Must be a good comedian. (soprano)
Female/Male Chorus: Looking for strong dancers who sing. Several featured acting roles including:
Hunyak: Accused of chopping off her husband’s head. She is actually innocent (one of the only ones), but because she only speaks Hungarian and refuses to plead guilty, she is found guilty and hanged. **This is a challenging role as all her lines are in Hungarian. Would like this actress to have a strong background in ballet dance.
Liz: Killed her husband with a shotgun because he “popped” his gum.
Annie: Found out her husband had several wives and killed him with Arsenic.
June: Killed her husband with a carving knife after he found out she cheated on him.
Mona: Killed her boyfriend after she found out he was sleeping around.
Go-to-Hell Kitty: Kills her boyfriend in her apartment after coming home and finding him with two girls. She is wealthy and goes crazy telling everyone to "go-to-hell".
Master of Ceremonies: This person is responsible for introducing all the “Vaudeville Acts.” Must have strong speaking ability, lots of energy and presence. May double as a male/female dancer or may be cast as a cameo role with little rehearsal time.
Fred Casely: Sleeping with Roxie Hart and is shot and killed. Must play a “regular guy” in the first scene but play an overly dramatic version of himself in the courtroom scene. May double as a male dancer.
Sergeant Fogarty: Police detective who interviews Amos after Roxie kills Fred. Typical “Chicago” cop who has been through this kind of thing many times. Will double as a male dancer.
Aaron: Court appointed lawyer who tries to defend the Hunyak. He gets extremely frustrated because he can’t understand her language and she refuses to plead guilty. Will double as a male dancer.
Foreman: This person will play the part of all or half the jurors in the jurors’ box by switching chairs and swapping out hats and various disguises. Will double as a male dancer.
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Labels: san diego musical theatre
Wednesday, October 10, 2012
What's Happening Aound Town for October 10th
Doomsday Cabaret at The Blank
Doomsday Cabaret “A Rock Musical of Apocalyptic Proportions,” one of the biggest hits of the Hollywood Fringe Festival, returns to Hollywood for a limited engagement at The Blank Theatre/Second Stage October 25 – December 21, (opening night October 27 at 8pm). The award-winning rock musical with book, music and lyrics by Michael Shaw Fisher is directed by Chris Raymond. Musical director and additional music: Michael Teoli. Produced by Fisher for Orgasmico Theatre Company. The cast features Liza Baron, Mark Bemesderfer, Sarah Chaney, Michael Shaw Fisher, Joe Fria, Ashleigh Giron, David Haverty, Nic Nassuet and Jake Regal with band members Jon Hurley, Richard Levinson, Jose Perez, and Mike Shafia. For tickets call (415) 994-4760.
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Steppin’ Out With Ben Vereen comes to The Broad Stage Friday, October 19th at 7:30 pm. Westsiders will “step out” with Vereen as he travels through his stellar forty-year career in this tour de force one-man show. With a program that includes salutes to Frank Sinatra and long-time friend Sammy Davis Jr., audiences will be dazzled by the charisma and pizzazz of a true entertainment legend. Click Here for tickets.
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Avenue Q at DOMA
Winding up their 2012 season, DOMA Theatre Company presents
Avenue Q, the only Tony Award-winning musical ever to proclaim, “It sucks to be
us.” Directed by Richard Israel with musical direction by Chris Raymond,
choreography by Angela Todaro, it stars Benai Boyd, Janelle Dote, Danielle
Judovits, Chris Kauffmann, Chris Kerrigan, Libby Letlow, Mark
Whitten. Singing puppets and their human neighbors tackle life’s most vexing
issues - love, sex, money, race and how to tell your roommate he’s gay in New
York City and on Avenue Q, the only address you can afford when you're fresh
out of college… or out of a job… or just trying to find your way in life. November
9 – December 16, DOMA Theatre Co. at The MET Theatre, 1089 N. Oxford Ave., Los Angeles CA 90029. For tickets call (323) 802-4990 or visit
www.domatheatre.com.
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Laguna Beach is Pinkalicious!
Laguna Beach Playhouse presents Pinkalicous The Musical, based on the popular N.Y. Times best-selling children’s book, live on-stage November 2 - 11. Pinkalicious will be directed by Donna Inglima, with musical direction by Jennifer Trevour and choreography by Tori Baker. Pinkalicious can't stop eating pink cupcakes despite warnings from her parents. Her pink indulgence lands her at the doctor's office with Pinkititis, an affliction that turns her pink from head to toe - a dream come true for this pink loving enthusiast. But when her hue goes too far, only Pinkalicious can figure out a way to get out of this predicament!
There will be very special kids Pre-Show Parties on Nov 3, 4, 10 & 11! Bring your special Pinkalicious fan to enjoy a Pinkalicious cupcake, dress up their outfit with a feather boa, have their face painted, play in their "Dress Up Tent," have their photo taken in the Photo Booth, do a Pinkalicious Craft, receive a Raffle ticket for the show raffle and much more! Parties begin at 11:30am before the Saturday and Sunday Matinees at 580 Broadway next door to the Laguna Playhouse.
The cast of Pinkalicious features young actors from the Laguna Beach and Orange County areas including McCallister Selva as Pinkalicious, Joseph Cowdrey as Peter, Amanda Pappalardo (Alison), Jennifer Pearce (Mrs. Pinkerton), Rich Wordes (Mr. Pinkerton) and Claire Day (Dr. Wink), along with Ashley Cohen, Molly Cohn, Rachel Heurlin, Kendall Huff, Jordan Jessen, Joey Laderer, Natalie Laderer, Summer Lee, Emily Muilenburg, Alexandra Murdy, Kayla Oldfield, Malia Pyles, Hannah Smith, Wills Spangler, Chloe Sullivan, Isabella Van Dyke, Quinton Yusi, Siena Yusi, and Trevor Yusi. Laguna Playhouse, 606 Laguna Canyon Road in Laguna Beach. For tickets visit www.lagunaplayhouse.com or call (949) 497-ARTS (2787) x 1.
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Labels: broad stage, DOMA, laguna playhouse