Tony Nominations Announced!

The latest nominees for the Tony Awards have been announced - here's the complete rundown:

Nominations for the 2012 American Theatre Wing’s Tony Awards®

Presented by The Broadway League and the American Theatre Wing

Best Play
Clybourne Park
Other Desert Cities
Peter and the Starcatcher
Venus in Fur

Best Musical
Leap of Faith
Newsies
Nice Work If You Can Get It
Once

Best Revival of a Play
Arthur Miller’s Death of a Salesman
Gore Vidal’s The Best Man
Master Class
Wit

Best Revival of a Musical
Evita
Follies
The Gershwins’ Porgy and Bess
Jesus Christ Superstar

Best Book of a Musical
Lysistrata Jones - Douglas Carter Beane
Newsies - Harvey Fierstein
Nice Work If You Can Get It - Joe DiPietro
Once - Enda Walsh

Best Original Score (Music and/or Lyrics) Written for the Theatre
Bonnie & Clyde - Music: Frank Wildhorn, Lyrics: Don Black
Newsies - Music: Alan Menken, Lyrics: Jack Feldman
One Man, Two Guvnors - Music & Lyrics: Grant Olding
Peter and the Starcatcher - Music: Wayne Barker, Lyrics: Rick Elice

Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role in a Play
James Corden, One Man, Two Guvnors
Philip Seymour Hoffman, Arthur Miller’s Death of a Salesman
James Earl Jones, Gore Vidal’s The Best Man
Frank Langella, Man and Boy
John Lithgow, The Columnist

Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role in a Play
Nina Arianda, Venus in Fur
Tracie Bennett, End of the Rainbow
Stockard Channing, Other Desert Cities
Linda Lavin, The Lyons
Cynthia Nixon, Wit

Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role in a Musical
Danny Burstein, Follies
Jeremy Jordan, Newsies
Steve Kazee, Once
Norm Lewis, The Gershwins’ Porgy and Bess
Ron Raines, Follies

Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role in a Musical
Jan Maxwell, Follies
Audra McDonald, The Gershwins’ Porgy and Bess
Cristin Milioti, Once
Kelli O’Hara, Nice Work If You Can Get It
Laura Osnes, Bonnie & Clyde

Best Performance by an Actor in a Featured Role in a Play
Christian Borle, Peter and the Starcatcher
Michael Cumpsty, End of the Rainbow
Tom Edden, One Man, Two Guvnors
Andrew Garfield, Arthur Miller’s Death of a Salesman
Jeremy Shamos, Clybourne Park

Best Performance by an Actress in a Featured Role in a Play
Linda Emond, Arthur Miller’s Death of a Salesman
Spencer Kayden, Don’t Dress for Dinner
Celia Keenan-Bolger, Peter and the Starcatcher
Judith Light, Other Desert Cities
Condola Rashad, Stick Fly

Best Performance by an Actor in a Featured Role in a Musical
Phillip Boykin, The Gershwins’ Porgy and Bess
Michael Cerveris, Evita
David Alan Grier, The Gershwins’ Porgy and Bess
Michael McGrath, Nice Work If You Can Get It
Josh Young, Jesus Christ Superstar

Best Performance by an Actress in a Featured Role in a Musical
Elizabeth A. Davis, Once
Jayne Houdyshell, Follies
Judy Kaye, Nice Work If You Can Get It
Jessie Mueller, On A Clear Day You Can See Forever
Da’Vine Joy Randolph, Ghost the Musical

Best Scenic Design of a Play
John Lee Beatty, Other Desert Cities
Daniel Ostling, Clybourne Park
Mark Thompson, One Man, Two Guvnors
Donyale Werle, Peter and the Starcatcher

Best Scenic Design of a Musical
Bob Crowley, Once
Rob Howell and Jon Driscoll, Ghost the Musical
Tobin Ost and Sven Ortel, Newsies
George Tsypin, Spider-Man Turn Off The Dark

Best Costume Design of a Play
William Ivey Long, Don’t Dress for Dinner
Paul Tazewell, A Streetcar Named Desire
Mark Thompson, One Man, Two Guvnors
Paloma Young, Peter and the Starcatcher

Best Costume Design of a Musical
Gregg Barnes, Follies
ESosa, The Gershwins’ Porgy and Bess
Eiko Ishioka, Spider-Man Turn Off The Dark
Martin Pakledinaz, Nice Work If You Can Get It

Best Lighting Design of a Play
Jeff Croiter, Peter and the Starcatcher
Peter Kaczorowski, The Road to Mecca
Brian MacDevitt, Arthur Miller’s Death of a Salesman
Kenneth Posner, Other Desert Cities

Best Lighting Design of a Musical
Christopher Akerlind, The Gershwins’ Porgy and Bess
Natasha Katz, Follies
Natasha Katz, Once
Hugh Vanstone, Ghost the Musical

Best Sound Design of a Play
Paul Arditti, One Man, Two Guvnors
Scott Lehrer, Arthur Miller’s Death of a Salesman
Gareth Owen, End of the Rainbow
Darron L West, Peter and the Starcatcher

Best Sound Design of a Musical
Acme Sound Partners, The Gershwins’ Porgy and Bess
Clive Goodwin, Once
Kai Harada, Follies
Brian Ronan, Nice Work If You Can Get It

Best Choreography
Rob Ashford, Evita
Christopher Gattelli, Newsies
Steven Hoggett, Once
Kathleen Marshall, Nice Work If You Can Get It

Best Direction of a Play
Nicholas Hytner, One Man, Two Guvnors
Pam MacKinnon, Clybourne Park
Mike Nichols, Arthur Miller’s Death of a Salesman
Roger Rees and Alex Timbers, Peter and the Starcatcher

Best Direction of a Musical
Jeff Calhoun, Newsies
Kathleen Marshall, Nice Work If You Can Get It
Diane Paulus, The Gershwins’ Porgy and Bess
John Tiffany, Once

Best Orchestrations
William David Brohn and Christopher Jahnke, The Gershwins’ Porgy and Bess
Bill Elliott, Nice Work If You Can Get It
Martin Lowe, Once
Danny Troob, Newsies

* * *
Recipients of Awards and Honors in Non-competitive Categories

Special Tony Award for Lifetime Achievement in the Theatre
Emanuel Azenberg

Regional Theatre Award
The Shakespeare Theatre Company, Washington, D.C.

Isabelle Stevenson Award
Bernadette Peters

Special Tony Award
Actors’ Equity Association
Hugh Jackman

Tony Honor for Excellence in the Theatre
Freddie Gershon
Artie Siccardi
TDF Open Doors

For more information, go to www.TonyAwards.com.

"1776" All Over Again!

Whew! Sorry for the lack of posts, gentle readers - your pal Chuck was swamped this weekend with twin shows - the wrap-up of the excellent Seussical (which I'll talk about more tomorrow) and being part of the wonderful production of 1776, which wrapped up its first of two weekends yesterday!

I'll have much more to say about that show in the week ahead - and you can catch a photo gallery of shots like this one from the show (none of them, mercifully, include me) right here - and here's the article Dave Lavender wrote for the Herald-Dispatch:

Director Bil Neal gathers up his notes at the foot of the Renais­sance Arts Center stage and gives the command for the play to begin — “Gentlemen, on stage please.” Indeed.

Armed with a cast that’s a who’s who of the Tri-State’s male leads, the drama-laden, music-filled birth of our country has never sounded so good as Arts Resources for the Tri-State dips its quill into history for a timely production of 1776 : The Musical that begins this weekend at the Renais­sance Arts Center, 900 8th St., (the old Huntington High School).

The show is anchored by leads such as Clint McElroy (John Adams), Mike Murdock (Benjamin Franklin) and Stephen Vance (Thomas Jefferson).

The winner of the Tony Award for Best Musical, 1776, which premiered in 1969 and was revived on Broadway in 1997, splays open the hot mess in Phila­delphia 1776 that is the rum-soaked second Continental Congress, a mix of walking cane-wielding businessmen, landowners and slave holders staring down history in the making.

Powered with music by pop writer Sherman Edwards and a snappy book by Peter Stone, 1776, whose catchy songs and dialogue are carved mostly from actual letters and memoirs by those involved, follows the agitator Adams (of Massachusetts), Franklin (of Penn­sylvania), and the Virginia coalition of Jefferson and Richard Henry Lee played by the spirited Jon Lamp, as they try and convince the Congress to set aside their wide gulf of differences and vote for independence from the shackles of the British monarchy by signing the Declaration of Independence.

With his gray flowing locks, boom­ing baritone and urgent delivery, McElroy commands the stage from the opening bars of “Sit Down John” as John Adams, a role he played for Huntington Outdoor Theatre in 2001.

McElroy said he jumped right back into this production because he couldn’t pass a show featuring so many fellow actors such as Jim Lamp (Dickinson), Charlie Woolcock (Caesar Rodney), and several others who have appeared in 1776 in Huntington, Ashland or both.

“It’s really been like a reunion,” McElroy said of the production that features such Tri-State theater elders as C.E. Wilson, Jerry Morse and even a rare appearance by Chuck Minsker. (A note from Chuck: Ha! There are few things more rare than me on stage. Hen's teeth, maybe?)

“A lot of the guys like Mark Near, this is his third or fourth time doing it and Jim Lamp too,” McElroy. “There’s just something really special about this show. It truly is a bonding experience. Both times I have done this, the guys who were in the show, we have stayed friends for years and years. The play is about that. People coming together and uniting for a cause and making it work, and making it work against all odds. There’s a reference in the play that Ben Franklin says, ‘We’re men, no more no less, trying to get a nation started against greater odds than a more generous God would have allowed.” McElroy said 1776 is that true underdog story that he feels every American should see to remind them of how and why and at what cost this country was founded.

“These men risked everything. They risked their lives and their fortunes and their families and their future and we forget that,” he said. “These were just men trying to put together this new nation and what it is all about is those compromises and the negotiations and working it out and trying to make as many people as happy as possible. What is fascinating about this play, and having seen it over and over again this is truly remarkable that you already know the outcome, you know they are going to sign the Declaration of Independence, but you get about a third of the way into 1776 and you are literally thinking, my gosh I hope they work this out. If they didn’t we would all be drinking tea at two in the afternoon and speaking with a British accent.” Not surprisingly, this history laden show has reeled in such educators as Cabell County Schools director of communications, Jedd Flowers (Roger Sherman) as well as Huntington Middle School science teacher Leann Haine (playing Abigail Adams, one of only two women in the play), Milton Middle School student teacher Jon Lamp (Richard Henry Lee) and Cabell Midland High School student Damon Noel (Leather Apron).

On Stage This Weekend

An amazing number of great shows are taking the stage this weekend!

Here's the rundown:

- Seussical the Musical - First Stage Theatre Company presents the musical based on the books by Dr. Seuss at the Keith-Albee Performing Arts Center Thursday and Friday, April 26 and 27 at 7 p.m. and Saturday, April 28 at 2 p.m.

- 1776 - ARTS presents the musical about the founding of American Independence at the Renaissance Theatre (the old Huntington High School) Friday and Saturday, April 27 and 28 at 8 p.m., and Sunday, May 29 at 2:30 p.m.

- Waiting for Godot - The Alban Arts and Conference Center (located at 65 Olde Main Street in Saint Albans, W.Va.) prsents the classic play "about nothing twice" Friday and Saturday, April 27 and 28 at 8 p.m., and Sunday, April 29 at 2 p.m. 

- Little Women - Kanawha Players presents the play at the Kanawha Players Theatre, 309 Beauregard Street in Charleston Thursday, Friday and Saturday, April 26, 27 and 28 at 8 p.m., and Sunday, April 29 at 2 p.m.

- Mountain Stage - Marshall Artist's Series presents a special performance of the show featuring Arlo Guthrie and Michael Cerveris at the Keith-Albee Performing Arts Center April 29.

- Into the Woods - George Washington High School's Drama Club presents the beloved musical at the Civic Center Little Theatre Friday at 7 p.m. and Saturday at 1 p.m. and 7 p.m.

   Whew! Now get out there and support your local theatre!

A Big Week on Stage

   So, it's a great week for community theatre, with two terrific shows in Huntington:

   The delightful and funny Seussical on Thursday and Friday at 7pm and Saturday at 2pm at the Keith Albee Theatre. The cast is loaded with amazing talent - they create a wonderful, colorful spectacle, loaded with funny, terrific characters - it really is a show for all ages! Kids will love it and parents will appreciate the genius of Dr. Seuss!

   Also running this weekend is 1776, which features an all-star cast of men, two incredibly talented and beautiful women, and (in a mercifully small role) me. Yep, for only the third time in living memory, your pal Chuck is taking the stage! It's a terrific show, with great songs, a moving story and lots of surprises! The show runs two weekends, starting this Friday and Saturday at 8pm and Sunday at 2:30pm.

   All performances take place at the Renaissance Art Center, 900 8th St., Huntington. Show only tickets are $15 and dinner and a show tickets are $30. Dinner will be served at 6:30 p.m. (Fridays and Saturdays only). Seating is limited. For reservation and more information call 304-733-ARTS

   The musical follows John Adams of Massachusetts, Benjamin Franklin of Pennsylvania and Thomas Jefferson of Virginia as they attempt to convince the members of the second Continental Congress to vote for independence from the shackles of the British monarchy by signing the Declaration of Independence.

   For more information contact Bil Neal - Director 304-544-3926 or Jeanette Bills - Producer 304-634-6401.
   These are two of my all-time favorite shows - check 'em out and you'll understand why!

A Busy Week for Theatre

Sorry for the lack of posts lately - I've been running between shows at a furious pace!

Saturday afternoon I caught the show Willy Wonka, Jr. as presented by the Children's Theatre of Charleston, and what a delightful show it was! Loaded with talent, great costumes and lots of wonderful songs, it was a real treat.

That evening I attended Seussical the Musical, presented by First Stage Theatre Company at the Keith Albee Theater. A fantastic show, it brought to life some of Dr. Seuss' greatest characters, was loaded with terrific performances (courtesy of an all-star cast), great costumes - it's one of my all-time favorite shows! You have three more chances to catch the show next Thursday and Friday at 7 p.m. and Saturday at 2 p.m. - don't miss it!

In addition to all that, I've been taking part in rehearsals for the upcoming 1776, presented by ARTS - it starts this Friday at 8 p.m. at the Renaissance Center (the old Huntington High School). It's a great show and an amazing cast - mark those calendars now!

I'll have more about these shows and others starting up this weekend - stay tuned!

On Stage This Weekend

You have three great shows to choose from this weekend - check 'em out:

   - Seussical the Musical - First Stage Theatre Company presents the musical based on the books by Dr. Seuss at the Keith-Albee Performing Arts Center April 20, 21, 22, 26, 27 and 28.

   - Pride and Prejudice - Marshall's Theatre Alliance presents the story by Jane Austen at the Joan C. Edwards Performing Arts Center April 20 and 21.

    - Willy Wonka, Jr. - Children's Theatre of Charleston presents the Roald Dahl musical April 20, 21 and 22.

   So get out there and support your local theatre!

Onstage with "Seussical the Musical"

My pal Dave Lavender wrote this excellent story about Seussical the Musical, which opens tomorrow night at the Keith Albee Theatre:

First Stage Theatre director Mary Smirl takes one look at a stage full of color-splashed Seussical characters from the Cat and Mayzie to Wickershams, bird and cat girls, kangaroos, cadets, Who's and a small army of Seuss rockettes and breaks into a Whoville smile that could melt a mountain of frost from around any Grinch heart.

"Everybody makes it better," said Smirl standing and embracing the typical chaos of rehearsals gone wild earlier this week.

And she does mean everybody - a stage-filling First Stage cast of 82 is costumed, rested and ready for a sure-to-be-wild live theatrical ride of Seussical, that's set for 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday nights, April 20-21 and April 26-27 as well as a Sunday matinee at 2 p.m. April 22 and a run-closing 2 p.m. Saturday matinee on April 28.

Tickets are $15 and $10 for children 12 and under.

Spiced with a dozen-piece orchestra under the musical direction of keyboardist and veteran vocal instructor, Lara Donahoe, and with choreography from Tiffany McCullough Carroll, this version of Seussical contains about 40 more cast members than when First Stage took on the whimsical production back in 2005.

Utilizing the Cat in the Hat as the emcee, Seussical, follows Horton the Elephant's journey to protect the tiny people of Who-ville (who live on a tiny speck of dust), while also weaving in many of the beloved characters of Dr. Seuss' cache of magical books from "Yertle the Turtle," and "The Lorax," to "The Butter Battle," "The Sneetches," and "And to Think That I Saw It on Mulberry Street."

Producer Tommy Smirl said First Stage tries to see saw back and forth between shows with a smaller cast to super-sized shows that can introduce a wide age range of kids to the rigors of the community theater that's been pumping out shows and scores of students who are now professional actors since 1990.

"Especially here in the Keith-Albee, which is so grand, there's nothing worse than having two or three people on such a large stage for 30 minutes at a time," he said. "We had been looking at doing this show again for some time. We want to do a big show once a year or at least every other year to bring in new kids. When we do some of the smaller cast shows, the veterans who've come up through the ranks get all the spots. When we do something like this we bring in a lot of new ones and there are some kids who are bitten from the time they start. That makes you feel good, because it's a lot of work to put a show on."

The First Stage crew has been rehearsing four days a week for 31/2 months to prep for the show, and this past week have been rehearsing for up to five hours a night prepping for the two-weekend run inside the stately Keith-Albee.

As often is the case in First Stage, the cast, which ranges in age from 3 to 18, has a crop of veteran students to lead the way and who also appeared in "Seussical" in 2005.

Levi Kelley, Catherine Dennison and Sarah Metz, all tiny Whovillians back in the day are now Horton, Mrs. Mayor, and Yertle the Turtle, respectively, while Jack McGee, a former cadet is now The Cat, and Rileigh Smirl, then Baby Kangeroo, is now a lead Bird Girl.

Just a few of the other cast members set to light up the stage are: Jojo, Aarman Karimpour; Gertrude McFuzz, Meg Barber; Sour Kangaroo, Sarah Bryan; Mayzie La Bird, Maggie Donahoe; Mr. Mayor, Samuel Collins and General Ghengis Kahn-Schmitz, Jesse Donahoe.

A well-known choreographer in the area, Mary Smirl said they've infused the show with more movement and some more dance roles from Suess Rockettes and Mini Rockettes, to a troupe of five Cat Girls, who're like The Cat in the Hat's entourage.

All of that movement is prompted by memorable score by Stephen Flaherty (music) and Lynn Ahrens (lyrics) that contains such sing-along songs as "Solla Sollew" and "Oh, The Thinks You Can Think!"

Donahoe, who also has two children in the play, and whose husband is on the crew as well, said Seussical is packed with beautiful, moving and difficult music that's been tackled head on by this cast of young actors.

"Technically, the music is very difficult but the kids have done a great job learning it," Donahoe said. "We have very few high schoolers in it, but they have really stepped up to lead. I think it says something for First Stage to take on this kind of show. My dad, who lives in Parkersburg, is always astounded at the opportunities that my kids get here in Huntington. It truly is amazing to be able to go play in the Keith-Albee Theater on this big stage."

For more info about the show, go online at www.firststagetheatre.org.

On Stage This Week: "Seussical"

One of my all-time favorite shows is making its way to the Keith Albee Performing Arts Center this weekend - it's Seussical!

The musical is based on several books by the beloved children's author (and artist) Dr. Seuss. It combines stories about The Cat in the Hat, Horton the Elephant (who hears a "Who" and hatches an egg), little Jojo, Gertrude McFuzz, Amazing Mayzie, General Genghis Khan Schmidt, the Wickersham Brothers and many more, all into one big, delightful musical tale.

It's being presented by First Stage Theatre Company and wraps up that group's 22nd season. (Quick confession: I'm the president of the group.)

It features an all-star cast of some of the most talented young performers from schools all around the area.

The costumes are vivid, the sets are bold, and the songs are a lot of fun! ("Solla Sollew" chokes me up every time.)

The show starts Friday at 7 p.m., and it runs Saturday at the same time, Sunday at 2 p.m., and there are three more shows the next weekend.

This is the second time First Stage has tackled the show - the last time was in 2005, and it was such a great success and a wonderful experience for the cast that the group was happy to bring it back for another run.

These young performers have been working for almost two months to get ready for the show - don't miss it!

On Stage This Week" "Pride and Prejudice"

Here's a fine story by my pal Dave Lavender about the latest show from Marshall's Theatre Alliance:

The elegant stage at the Joan C. Edwards Playhouse is set for all the pomp and twirl of a formal 19th century English ball, yet when the chamber orchestra plays, out flows a steady beat of Coldplay, Lady Gaga and even some early Michael Jackson, as the stage full of costumed dancers gracefully move.

No, this is not your grandmother’s dusty version of Pride and Prejudice.

Breathing life into a crisp and flowing 2006 stage adaptation by Jon Jory (of the renowned Actor’s Theatre of Louisville), the Marshall University Department of Theatre has this dance with Jane Austen’s timeless romantic novel, Pride and Prejudice.

Starring such Marshall University students as Chelsea Sanders as Elizabeth, Nathan Mohebbi as Mr. Darcy and Chase Likens (fresh back from American Idol) as Mr. Wickham, the play runs at 8 p.m. Wednesday, April 18 through Saturday, April 21 at the Joan C. Edwards Performing Arts Center.

Tickets are $20; $15 faculty or seniors and $5 for children under 12 and free to full-time Marshall students with valid ID.

Sanders, a fan of Jane Austen’s classic coming-of-age tales since her early school days, said while she at first approached the new adaptation with a hint of trepidation, she has fallen for the new working of Pride and Prejudice, which has sold more than 20 million copies since it was written in 1813.

“This role is kind of like a little senior gem because I was such a big Jane Austen fan,” Sanders said. “I got really mad at first, like this wasn’t in the book, but after much time and prayer over it, I’ve grown to love it, and there are places in the play that I wished were in the book. I love that I get to play this whimsical romantic being who is also a strong woman. To me that is a strong coupling that can’t be compared to.”

The play, which Sanders sells as a “good chick flick for women and an easy date for men,” follows the smart and sassy Elizabeth Bennett and her four sisters as they navigate the waters of love prompted by an overzealous match-making mother, (played by Annie Fletcher) and a string of unsuitable suitors.

Not looking for a suitor the independent-minded Elizabeth meets the equally headstrong Mr. Darcy and the plot thickens.

Director Nicole Perrone said the fast-moving, romance-and-dance-filled play should have a wide appeal to both students and the community.

“I hope they don’t have the expectations that this is going to be like going to a museum. It is rather a living thing that is relevant,” Perrone said of the play. “Jon Jory’s adaptation has I think a contemporary edge to it. It is written to move very quickly and it is definitely written for the stage and can be abstract in places. He has preserved all the most beloved scenes from the book and reinvented it in a way that really fits the stage.”

Perrone, who choreographed the show with Josh Meredith, said this large cast show (with nearly 20 actors) and one filled with so much dance was a perfect fit in the Marshall Theatre Alliance season coming on the heels of the small edgy show, Proof.

“This is basically our lab and we we are trying to take what we are doing in the classroom and apply it down here,” Perrone said. “It’s a great play, and this show represented some opportunities for dialect work and we just had a dialect class last spring so we’re applying what they are learning here. Also there is a lot of period dance and movement in this piece. We do eight or nine 19th century English country dances that have all been researched.”

That bounty of movement is accentuated on stage with Lang Reynolds’ airy and versatile set and lighting design that uses floor-to-ceiling white sheer curtains to create silhouettes and that seems to magnify every stage movement.

Interestingly, Likens said he was originally cast for Mr. Wickham, but was on the fence about having to punt the role due to his run on American Idol.

When that run ended, understudy Patrick Taylor, who had just starred in Proof, and who plays Sir. Lucas/the officer and ensemble, let Likens back in his original role.

“I think that was the best decision to come back and get right into something,” Likens said. “Nicole and the rest of the theater department embraced me with open arms and I was very grateful for that.”

Likens said he feels Pride and Prejudice, is truly a story for all times.

“I think it speaks for all times in that it is a love story — when you get to the nitty gritty of it, and that is what everybody loves to see,” Likens said. “Even in the most popular songs today it is always about a love song — the archetypal story — man falls in love with woman, woman doesn’t want man, but something winds up together and end up living happily ever after.”

"Timeless Terpsichore and Theatricals"

This press release arrived courtesy my pal Gene Anthony, who's working on a project that sounds like a heck of a lot of fun:

ARTS Resources Presents

Timeless Terpsichore and Theatricals

The Premiere Production Of The Piccadilly Vaudeville Consortium And Dessert Emporium

- PVC YOUR PIPELINE TO PURE ENTERTAINMANT –

If you put Music Hall, Vaudeville, and Dinner Theatre into a melting pot, you would end up with the delicious and delectable Piccadilly Vaudeville Consortium (PVC), a company of players comprised of Gene Anthony, Bil Neal, Karen Kelly Pruitt, Linda Reynolds, Mike Murdock, Mike Naglee and Andrea Parkins.

Timeless Terpsichore and Theatricals is an original evening of music, song, dance, variety act, sing-a-long and comic sketches written by the company and directed and staged by Coni and Gene Anthony.

Add to this a slice of Apple Pie and a cup of Coffee and voila’, said Dessert Emporium.

It will run Nov. 29, 30 and Dec. 1, 6, 7 and 8, 2012.

There is opportunity for an extended run, a Valentine’s Day spectacular, a St. Patrick’s Day Celebration, an April Fools Masque, a Mother’s Day Tribute, a Father’s Day Bash, a Fourth of July Explosion, a Halloween Spook Show and PRIVATE BOOKINGS for Birthdays, Bar-Mitzvahs, Retirement Parties, Weddings, Family Reunions, Corporate Parties and any other venue that your imagination and love of spectacular entertainment can create.

Put it on your calendar, Tri-state!

The Cast for "Avenue Q"

My pal Danny Ray sends along the cast list for the next production from Huntington's Curtains Up Players (CUP) - Avenue Q!

CUP is pleased to announce the cast list for our upcoming production Avenue Q, which will be presented at the Jeslyn Performing Arts Center August 24-September 2.

Princeton / Rod – Shayne Gue

Kate Monster / Lucy the Slut – Kristen Pennington

Nicky – Michael Rose

Trekkie Monster/Bad Idea Bear – Ryan Jackson

Mrs. Thistletwat/Bad Idea Bear/Ensemble – Stephanie Sands

Brian – Greg Kiser

Christmas Eve – April Frye

Ensemble – Devon Collins

Gary Coleman – TBA


Artistic Direction / Scenic Design – Danny Ray

Musical Direction – Caitlin DeSpain

Choreography – Chris Sunderland

Assistant Director – Holly Maynard

"The Curious Savage"

My pal Sarah Diamond Burroway sends along this photo from the production The Curious Savage, which wraps up its brief run tonight in Ashland.

The photo features Mary Baughman of Portsmouth (Ethel P. Savage) and Joanna Berner of Ashland (Lily Belle Savage).

The Curious Savage by John Patrick is being presented by Company of Dreams Theatre at the Hillside Community Church, which is located on the second floor at 1100 Greenup Avenue (near Game Stop and Arby's) in Ashland, Ky.

The last show is tonight at 8 p.m. Tickets are $5 at the door.

The Curious Savage is an endearing adventure of high comedy. Mrs. Ethel P. Savage has been left $10 million dollars by her husband and wants to make the best use of it, in spite of the efforts of her grown-up stepchildren to get their hands on it. The stepchildren, knowing that the widow's wealth is now in negotiable securities and seeing they cannot get their hands on it, commit her to a sanitorium, hoping to bring her to her senses.

For more information call 606-922-2903.

On Stage This Weekend: "Curious Savage"

The floodgates are about to burst, as several big shows take the stage in two weeks.

But this weekend, there's only one show being offered - and this is the only weekend to see it.

It's The Curious Savage by John Patrick, which is being presented by Company of Dreams Theatre at the Hillside Community Church, which is located on the second floor at 1100 Greenup Avenue (near Game Stop and Arby's) in Ashland, Ky.

Shows are Friday, April 13 and Saturday April 14 at 8 p.m. nightly. Tickets are $5 at the door.

The Curious Savage is an endearing adventure of high comedy, which will leave you with a feeling that the neglected virtues of kindness and affection have not been entirely lost in a world that seems motivated at times only by greed and honesty.

Mrs. Ethel P. Savage has been left $10 million dollars by her husband and wants to make the best use of it, in spite of the efforts of her grown-up stepchildren to get their hands on it. The stepchildren, knowing that the widow's wealth is now in negotiable securities and seeing they cannot get their hands on it, commit her to a "sanitorium," hoping to bring her to her senses.

But Mrs. Savage is determined to establish a fund to help others realize their hopes and dreams. In the sanitorium, she meets various social misfits, men and women who cannot adjust themselves to life, people who need the help that Mrs. Savage can provide.

The directing team is: Director - Jim Maggard; Production Assistance - Sarah Diamond Burroway, Brian Duty, Tish Maynard, Josh Day and Kenny Riffe.

For more information call 606-922-2903.

On Stage Soon: "Into the Woods"

Here's a show that I almost missed. George Washington High School has built a strong drama program over the years, and later this month they're presenting a classic - Into the Woods:

An ambivalent Cinderella? A blood-thirsty Little Red Riding Hood? A Prince Charming with a roving eye? A Witch... who raps? They're all among the cockeyed characters in James Lapine and Stephen Sondheim`s fractured fairy tale.

When a Baker and his Wife learn they've been cursed with childlessness by the Witch next door, they embark on a quest for the special objects required to break the spell, swindling, lying to and stealing from Cinderella, Little Red, Rapunzel and Jack (the one who climbed the beanstalk).

Everyone's wish is granted at the end of Act One, but the consequences of their actions return to haunt them later, with disastrous results. What begins a lively irreverent fantasy in the style of The Princess Bride becomes a moving lesson about community responsibility and the stories we tell our children.

Into the Woods will be presented at the Charleston Civic Center Little Theatre April 27 and 28 at 7 p.m. and April 28 at 1 p.m.

Call 304-348-7729 for more information.

The mission of the George Washington High School Theatre of the Nevertheless is to produce theatre in a nuturing community environment, while providing a place for learning, training and encouragement to those interested in participating in the dramatic arts.

Director: Nick Staples
Assistant Director: Taylor Bird
Musical Director: Mark Scarpelli

"Jesus Christ Superstar"

I had the great good fortune Saturday night to catch the final presentation of Jesus Christ Superstar, as presented by CYAC.

It's long been a favorite of mine - the original album was one of the first records I ever bought, and I still own it. I've seen the movie, I've seen the touring show with Ted Neely, and I even directed a local version eight years ago.

So this show had a lot to live up to, and I'm happy to say it was tremendous - I thoroughly enjoyed it!

And so did the sold-out crowd that filled the Capitol Theater. Playing the title role was Ryan Hardiman, and he turned in one of his most compelling and emotional performances yet (and that's saying something). The powerful music in the show allowed him to really crank it up, and he turned in an amazing performance.

The show is something of a triangle - you need a great performer for Jesus, of course, but you also need a great Judas and a compelling Mary Magdalene - and they succeeded on both counts.

Playing Judas was Donnie Smith, and he was amazing - emotional, heart-breaking, energetic - it takes a big singer to keep up with Ryan, and Donnie did just that. Very impressive!

Erin Martin also impressed as Mary Magdalene - she has a sweet, soulful voice, and a wonderful stage presence.

None of that is to slight the rest of the cast, who also did excellent work. Ted Brightwell killed as King Herod (in the show's funniest number). Craig Auge was excellent as Pilate. John Valleau brought his powerful bass voice to make a delightful Caiphas.

The cast turned in excellent work and received a well-earned standing ovation at the end. Kudos to director Dan Kehde, Music Director Mark Scarpelli and his excellent 15-piece orchestra, choreographer Rob Royce and the entire cast and crew for an outstanding production.

If you missed this one - shame on you!

Auditions for "Avenue Q"

A reminder that auditions are this weekend for the upcoming production of the musical Avenue Q.

They'll be held Saturday, April 7, 2012 at 2 p.m. at Kuhn Memorial Presbyterian Church, 955 Main Street in Barboursville.

Everyone should prepare 32 bars from any Broadway musical and be prepared to read from the script. All actors must bring his or her own sheet music - accompaniment will be provided.

Parts are available for 4-5 men and 4-5 women. There are no roles available for children under 16.

It is expected that they will cast the show traditionally for Princeton/Rod, Kate Monster/Lucy, Nicky/Trekkie Monster. However, that is not set in stone.

Rehearsals will be 4-5 days per week beginning in June 2012, and performances are scheduled for August 24 – September 2 at the Jeslyn Performing Arts Center.

For more information you may call director Danny Ray at 304-654-0587.

On Stage This Weekend - Two Shows

This weekend is your last chance to catch these two shows:

- Beauty and the Beast - Huntington High School presents the Disney musical April 6 and 7 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $7 for adults and $5 for kids.

- Jesus Christ Superstar - CYAC presents the beloved musical (starring Ryan Hardiman in the title role) at the Capitol Center Theatre at 123 Summers Street on April 6 and 7 at 8 p.m. Tickets are $10 for adults and $6 for Students and Seniors Citizens.

Don't miss 'em!

On Stage This Month: "The Curious Savage"

My pal Sarah Diamond Burroway sends along this note about the upcoming show The Curious Savage:

The cast and crew moved in to Hillside Community Church on Monday and rehearsals are going well! Tech week is next week and the show opens on Friday the 13th.

For those unfamiliar with Hillside Community Church, it is located on the second floor at 1100 Greenup Avenue (near Game Stop and Arby's) in Ashland, Ky. Some people call it the Hope's Place Building (ground floor).

Anyway, the meeting place used by the church has a great little "black box" feel and Hillside, its congregation and pastor, Tim Holmes, are wonderful to open their doors to community theatre. The independent production of Albert's Hall was staged there last fall and Company of Dreams produced The Diviners at Hillside in July 2011.

As a member of the production staff, I can say rehearsals are a blast! The cast is putting a wonderful spin on a heart-warming story. There are so many funny moments and some unexpected physical comedy. It's a joy to work with so many talented actors who're embracing the spirit of this story and its intent.

Director Jim Maggard has a great vision for each character and how they intertwine to tell this tale. I hope you can come see a show!

By the way, the playwright, John Patrick, was from Louisville.

Below is the info:

Company of Dreams Theatre presents The Curious Savage by John Patrick.

Friday, April 13 and Saturday April 14 at 8 p.m. nightly. Tickets are $5 at the door.

Join the cast of The Curious Savage in this endearing adventure of high comedy, which will leave you with a feeling that the neglected virtues of kindness and affection have not been entirely lost in a world that seems motivated at times only by greed and honesty.

Mrs. Ethel P. Savage has been left $10 million dollars by her husband and wants to make the best use of it, in spite of the efforts of her grown-up stepchildren to get their hands on it. The stepchildren, knowing that the widow's wealth is now in negotiable securities and seeing they cannot get their hands on it, commit her to a "sanitorium," hoping to bring her to her senses.

But Mrs. Savage is determined to establish a fund to help others realize their hopes and dreams. In the sanitorium, she meets various social misfits, men and women who can not adjust themselves to life, people who need the help that Mrs. Savage can provide.

The Guests:
Florence - Kathy Waugh
Hannibel - Roger Hagley
Fairy May - Alana Mullins
Jeffrey - Brian Cook
Mrs. Paddy - Carol Spence

The Family:
Titus - Tyler Bradley
Samuel - Kenny Riffe
Lily Belle - Joanna Berner
Ethel P. Savage - Mary Baughman

The Staff:
Miss Wilhelmina - Brittany Shaw
Dr. Emmett - Greg Picklesimer

--
Director - Jim Maggard; Production Assistance - Sarah Diamond Burroway, Brian Duty, Tish Maynard, Josh Day and Kenny Riffe.

For more information call 606-922-2903.

On Stage in April

There are quite a few outstanding shows on the way in April - here's the list:

- Seussical the Musical - First Stage Theatre Company presents the musical based on the books by Dr. Seuss at the Keith-Albee Performing Arts Center April 20, 21, 22, 26, 27 and 28.

- 1776 - ARTS presents the musical about the founding of American Independence at the Renaissance Theatre (the old Huntington High School) April 27, 28, 29, May 3, 4 and 5.

- Pride and Prejudice - Marshall's Theatre Alliance presents the story by Jane Austen at the Joan C. Edwards Performing Arts Center April 18, 19, 20 and 21.

- Beauty and the Beast - Huntington High School presents the Disney musical April 6, 7 and 8.

- Jesus Christ Superstar - CYAC presents the rock opera starring Ryan Hardiman at the Capitol Center Theatre at 123 Summers Street April 5, 6 and 7.

- Little Women - Kanawha Players presents the play April 26, 27, 28 and 29.

- Willy Wonka, Jr. - Children's Theatre of Charleston presents the Roald Dahl musical April 20, 21 and 22.

- Mountain Stage - Marshall Artist's Series presents a special performance of the show featuring Arlo Guthrie and Michael Cerveris at the Keith-Albee Performing Arts Center April 29.

- The Curious Savage by John Patrick - Company of Dreams Theatre presents the play at the Hillside Community Church at 1100 Greenup Avenue in Ashland, Ky., on April 13 and 14 at 8 p.m. Tickets are $5 at the door.

And that's it! Start marking those calendars!

A Tale of Two Shows

Sorry my posting has been a bit sporadic of late, gentle readers - things have been hectic out there in the real world.

A lot of that is because I've been splitting my time between two different shows.

The first is the upcoming Seussical the Musical, which First Stage Theatre Company will be presenting at the Keith-Albee Performing Arts Center the last two weekends in April.

I've just been helping a little bit around the edges - the show is being directed by the wonderful Mary Smirl, and she's assembled an amazing, talented cast and a terrific directing team to assemble the musical.

It's one of my all-time favorite shows, and I can't wait to see the beloved Dr. Seuss characters come to life on stage.

The other show I've involved with is the one I hinted about recently. ARTS will be staging the musical 1776 at the end of April / beginning of May. As you'd expect, it focuses on the birth of American Independence - and does so in a show that is very funny, entertaining as can be and full of surprises and great songs.

It's a show I adore, but when auditions rolled around I wasn't able to try out, so I resigned myself to watching it from the audience.

But then a couple of weeks ago I got a call from my pal Clint McElroy (who's playing John Adams in the show), asking if I could help them out - a member of the cast had to drop out, and the part was the Rev. John Witherspoon - the same character I played when HOT staged the show in 2001.

It's the perfect part for me - a small role, no solos to sing, not too many lines to memorize - how could I refuse? Heck, I even get to wear the same costume!

So I signed on, and we've been having a great time at rehearsals. It's an amazing cast, including my pals Mike Murdock as Ben Franklin, Jim Lamp as John Dickinson, C.E. Wilson as John Hancock, Mark Near as Col. Thomas McKean, Jerry Morse as James Wilson and Stephen Vance as Thomas Jefferson (among many others).

The show is directed by my pal Bil Neal, and he's made the production a lot of fun to be part of (not an easy task).

You'll be hearing a lot more about both shows in the weeks ahead - fair warning!

On Stage This Weekend - Three Shows

You have three great shows to choose from this weekend:

- Beauty and the Beast - Huntington High School presents the Disney musical March 29, 30, 31, April 5, 6, 7 at 7:30 p.m. and April 1 at 3 p.m. Tickets are $7 for adults and $5 for kids.

- Annie - The Portsmouth Little Theatre presents the musical about everyone's favorite orphan March 30 and 31 at 7:30 p.m. and April 1 at 2 p.m.

- Jesus Christ, Superstar - CYAC presents the beloved musical (starring Ryan Hardiman in the title role) at the Capitol Center Theatre at 123 Summers Street on March 29, 30, 31, April 5, 6, 7 at 8 p.m. and April 1 at 2 p.m. Tickets are $10 for adults and $6 for Students and Seniors Citizens.

So get out there and support your local theatre!

On Stage This Weekend - "Beauty and the Beast"

Here's one that almost slipped past me (thanks to my pal Stephen Vance for the info):

Huntington High School is presenting the Disney musical Beauty and the Beast over the next two weekends: March 29, 30, 31, April 5, 6, 7 at 7:30 p.m. and April 1 at 3 p.m.

Tickets are $7 for adults and $5 for kids.

The Cast includes:

Belle - Kristin Caviani
Beast - Jacob Jarvis
Lumiere - Barry Westmoreland
Cogsworth - Jacob Eastman
Mrs Potts - Chloe Donahoe
Chip - Lydia Waybright
Babette - Christin Gerwig
Gaston - Ben Aulick
Lefou - Dylan Parker
Maurice - Steve Freeman

as well as a multitude of other talented students!

Jim Stone Scholarship Applications Being Accepted

The First Stage Theatre Company is now accepting applications for the Jim Stone Scholarship.

First Stage sponsors the scholarship to honor the memory of Jim Stone, a longtime supporter of the arts and mentor to local children in the performing arts. A $1000 scholarship is available for entering freshmen or current full-time students who are studying dramatic or performing arts at a college, university or certified school of the performing arts.

The deadline for entries is Tuesday, April 24, 2012.

Applicants must have been involved with at least one First Stage Theatre Company show, either on-stage (as a performer) or off-stage (as a member of the tech crew).

Applicants must send: a list of the shows they’ve been in; a list of school-related extra-curricular activities; a list of civic or public service activities; a copy of an official school document showing the individual's most recent grade-point average; identification of the college the individual is attending or will attend; and a brief statement (250 words or less) on why the applicant is interested in studying dramatic or performing arts.

Applications should be mailed to: First Stage Scholarships, P.O. Box 4, Huntington, WV 25706-0004.

Complete application information and forms are available at the First Stage Theatre website at www.firststagetheatre.org. For more information, call 304-736-4366.

On Stage This Weekend: "Jesus Christ, Superstar"

It's the classic rock opera taking the stage in Charleston:

CYAC presents Jesus Christ Superstar March 29 - April 7

Rice and Webber's iconic concept album turned rock opera Jesus Christ Superstar returns to the WVSU Capitol Center stage with former Symphony Idol winner Ryan Hardiman in the title role of this massive local production. Donnie Smith [Jack the Ripper] reprises his role as Judas Iscariot with Erin Martin as Mary Magdalene, Craig Auge as Pilate and Ted Brightwell as Herod.

Directed by Dan Kehde, with music direction by Mark Scarpelli and choreography by Robert Royce

Performances

Thursday, March 29 - 8 p.m.
Friday, March 30 - 8 p.m.
Saturday, March 31 - 8 p.m.
Sunday, April 1 - at 2 p.m.

and

Thursday, April 5 - 8 p.m.
Friday, April 6 - 8 p.m.
Saturday, April 7 - 8 p.m.

WVSU Capitol Center Theater
123 Summers St, Charleston, WV

Tickets available at the door the evenings of the performances,
$6 Students and Seniors (65 +)
$10 for adults

For advance reservations, call the WVSU Capitol Center box office at
304-342-6522 during regular business hours.

Auditions for "Avenue Q"

From my pal Danny Ray, here's the announcement about auditions for the next show from CUP:

Curtains Up Players (CUP) is pleased to announce auditions for the upcoming Tony Award winning musical AVENUE Q on Saturday, April 7, 2012 at 2 p.m. at Kuhn Memorial Presbyterian Church, 955 Main Street in Barboursville.

Everyone should prepare 32 bars from any Broadway musical and be prepared to read from the script. All actors must bring his or her own sheet music - accompaniment will be provided.

Parts are available for 4-5 men and 4-5 women. There are no roles available for children under 16.

It is expected that we will cast the show traditionally for Princeton/Rod, Kate Monster/Lucy, Nicky/Trekkie Monster. However, that is not set in stone.

Rehearsals will be 4-5 days per week beginning in June 2012, and performances are scheduled for August 24 – September 2 at the Jeslyn Performing Arts Center.

For more information you may call director Danny Ray at 304-654-0587.

On Stage: "The Sound of Music"

Tomorrow's your last chance to catch the beloved musical called - what else? - The Sound of Music, which is being performed at 7:30 p.m. at the Paramount Arts Center in Ashland.

You can also see some photos of the show by Mark Webb (like the one above) at the Herald-Dispatch's Photo Gallery.

On Stage This Weekend

You have four great shows to choose from this weekend, including:

- Broadway Melody Dinner Theatre - presented Friday at 6:30 p.m. at the Underwood Senior Center, 632 9th Avenue in Huntington. Come enjoy a spaghetti dinner and enjoy a great show with such local talent as Ryan Hardiman, Mary Olson, Stevie Brigode, Jane Modlin, the cast of 1776, the cast of 9 to 5, Curtain Up Players, among others.

- Doubt - The Clay Center presents the drama March 23 at 8 p.m.

- The Sound of Music - The classic musical will be presented at the Paramount Arts Center on March 22, 23 and 24 at 7:30 p.m.

- Annie - The Portsmouth Little Theatre presents the musical about everyone's favorite orphan March 23, 24, 30 and 31 at 7:30 p.m., and March 25 and April 1 at 2 p.m.

Auditions for "Next to Normal"

Auditions are being held this week for the acclaimed play NEXT TO NORMAL.

They'll be held Thursday, March 22 at 7:30 p.m. and Saturday, March 24 at 11 a.m. at the Charleston Light Opera Guild Theater at 411 Tennessee Avenue, Charleston, WV 25302.

Prepare a musical selection showing your vocal range. An accompanist will be provided, you must bring the sheet music for your selection. Scripts will be provided for reading auditions.

This is a six person ensemble show. All roles require strong singers.

The roles are: Diana - Sharp, sexy, delusional mother; plays 30s-40s (E3-F5).
Dan - Diana's husband; handsome, genuine, constant, tired; plays 30s-40s (B3-B5).
Dr. Madden/Dr. Fine - On the young side of ageless, assured, a rock star; plays 30s-40s (A3-G5).
Gabe - Diana's son, dashing, gentle, bright, playful, everything a mother could want; plays late teens (A3-B5).
Natalie - Diana's daughter, trying to be perfect; plays late teens (G3-F5).
Henry - Natalie's boyfriend, musician, slacker, romantic, philosopher king; plays late teens (A3-B5).

NEXT TO NORMAL is a FestivALL Charleston Featured Event. It will be staged June 15, 16, 22 and 23 at 7:30 p.m. and June 17 and 24 at 5 p.m. at the Charleston Civic Center Little Theate. The production is sponsored by Mrs. Alex Schoenbaum.

For more information, contact Artistic Director Nina Denton Pasinetti at 304-343-6015.

NEXT TO NORMAL is an inventive, emotional and powerful production about one family trying to take care of themselves and each other.

NEXT TO NORMAL is the acclaimed groundbreaking musical that won three 2009 Tony awards for best actress, Alice Ripley, best score and best orchestrations and a 2010 Pulitzer Prize for drama. This original musical has an electrifying score with music by Tom Kitt and book and lyrics by Brian Yorkey. NEXT TO NORMAL is one of the most talked about Broadway shows in recent history and is a deeply affecting and thought-provoking musical experience.

A Quiet Weekend

Sorry for the lack of posts, gentle reader - but this is one of those extremely rare weekends where no shows are being staged in our area.

Shocking, I know.

Next week more than makes up for it with not less than three shows (naturally) scattered across the Tri-State, including:

- Doubt at the Clay Center March 23 at 8 p.m.

- The Sound of Music at the Paramount Arts Center March 22, 23 and 24 at 7:30 p.m.

- Annie presented by the Portsmouth Little Theatre March 23, 24, 30 and 31 at 7:30 p.m., and March 25 and April 1 at 2 p.m.

So save up your dough and get ready for the storm of shows on the way - including one in April that will feature a guest appearance by none other than... me!

More on that frightening thought in the days ahead...

On Stage Thursday: Dog Sees God

A talented performer from Marshall University is presenting a special performance this week - it's called:

DOG SEES GOD: Confessions of a Teenage Blockhead!

MARCH 15, 2012 at 5 p.m.

FREE ADMISSION

Nathan Mohebbi's Senior Capstone

at the Francis Booth Experimental Theatre in the Joan C. Edwards Performing Arts Center.

When CB's dog dies from rabies, CB begins to question the existence of an afterlife. His best friend is too burnt out to provide any coherent speculation; his sister has gone goth; his ex-girlfriend has recently been institutionalized; and his other friends are too inebriated to give him any sort of solace. But a chance meeting with an artistic kid, the target of this group's bullying, offers CB a peace of mind and sets in motion a friendship that will push teen angst to the very limits. Drug use, suicide, eating disorders, teen violence, rebellion and sexual identity collide and careen toward an ending that's both haunting and hopeful.

Featuring:
CB - Ryan Cardwell
CB'S SIS - Rachel Stefursky
VAN - Patrick Taylor
BEETHOVEN - Josh Meredith
MATT - James P. Smith
TRICIA - Miranda Harrison
MARCY - Whitney Adkins
VAN'S SIS - Jordan Bean

Nathan's a great talent - this should be a terrific theatre experience!

Highly recommended!

On Stage Wednesday: Three Scrumptious Plays

This sounds like a lot of fun - three shows by a talented actor / writer at Marshall University:

Three Scrumptious Plays by Erik Hamilton Woods

Satisfy your appetite for beautiful theatre!

A live quartet will provide the soundtrack to the action!

It's free of charge! One night only! Don't miss a once in a lifetime experience of plays Erik wrote!

The show will be presented Wednesday, March 14 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Joan C. Edwards Performing Arts Center.

Directed by: Adam Stephens

Music by: Nicolas Blain & Mike Waldeck

Stage Manager: Christopher Crawford

"Charlotte's Web" Auditions

This note arrives courtesy of my pal Sarah:

Calling All Kids! The Backstage Players, a youth theatre group, is seeking actors for the upcoming production of Charlotte’s Web.

Auditions will be held Saturday, March 24 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. and Sunday, March 25 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. at the KYOVA Mall across from Becca’s Place of Inspiration.

Actors ages 10 to 20 will be cast in this show. No prior performance experience is necessary. Twenty-five youth roles will be cast for the production, which will include school matinees and one evening performance May 3 - 5 at the Cultural Arts Center at Raceland-Worthington (KY) High School.

Charlotte's Web is under the direction of Eliza Lee.

For more information, call 606-922-2903 or 606-219-8567.

On Stage This Weekend... and Beyond!

My pal Dave Lavender turned in a massive story today recapping all the latest theatre news - which you can read right here:

Curtains Up Players have put up a bunch of cool shows such as musicals like "Putnam County Spelling Bee," "Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat" and "Bat Boy."

But hold the music this weekend as they take a dramatic turn with their first non-musical "How I Learned to Drive" that will run at 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday, March 8-10, and 2:30 p.m. Sunday, March 11, at the Jeslyn Performing Arts Center.

Directed by Misha Renee, this Pulitizer-Prize-winning play by Paula Vogel explores the complex relationship between Li'l Bit and her Uncle Peck, through a series of driving lessons that progress from innocent to something darker.

Tickets are $10 and can be reserved online at www.curtainsuplayers.org or purchased at the door before the show or call 304-688-7403.

More murder mysteries on the way

George Snider's Murder and Merriment murder mystery troupe is having a killer run with their interactive dinner theater shows now being held around the Tri-State.

The troupe, which has sold out Saturday, March 10, at Greenbo Lake State Resort Park in Greenup, Ky., now has murder mysteries booked around the region at various country clubs, private parties and parks.

They return home here in a couple weeks (March 23-24 and March 30-31) to the historic B&O train station as the Heritage Station Shop Owners Association in partnership with the Cabell-Huntington Convention & Visitors Bureau presents "Trial By Murder!" an interactive Murder Mystery Dinner Theatre Party. Susan Hicks and Suzcatering will be serving a catered dinner. Tickets are $35 each and are on sale at 304-523-7526 for this 1930s-era themed show that traces the story of a railroad magnet on trial following a tragic train derailment .

The cast features local actors: Michael Murdock, Ron Anderson, Mary Williams, Stephanie Kay Sands, Brian Cook, Kendra Egnor, Allan Stern, Greg Kiser, Sheila Meade, and George R. Snider III as Detective Phillip Merlot. This is the 7th Murder Mystery that has been presented at Heritage Station.

FestivALL playwriting contest

Charleston Stage Company is announcing its Seventh Annual New Play Project for Charleston's FestivALL. Open to all West Virginia writers, they are hosting a contest for new short works to be written and then performed during the ten days of FestivALL. This year's location is The Library Play, the first line of the play must be "Quiet, please!" and have a performance time of no more than 15 minutes. Winning submissions will be performed at the Kanawha County Public Library, main branch, in the Children's Reading Room. For complete rules go online at www.charlestonstagecompany.com or call 304-766-5721. Deadline for play submission is May 10. All plays must be typewritten and mailed to the Charleston Stage Company at 123 Summers St., Charleston, WV 25301 or emailed in Word or PDF format to charlestonstagecompany@yahoo.com

'Mamma Mia'

The historic Paramount Arts Center has just announced that the smash hit musical "Mamma Mia," based on the songs of ABBA, will be performed at 8 p.m. Wednesday, May 9.

The blockbuster feature film adaptation of "Mamma Mia," is the most successful movie musical of all time grossing $600 million worldwide.

Tickets for "Mamma Mia!" are $60, $65, $70 and $80 and are available at www.paramountartscenter.com or by calling the box office at 606-324-3175. For information. go to www.mammamianorthamerica.com.

Auditions, auditions

There's several auditions happening this weekend.

The Albans Arts and Conference Center, 65 Olde Main St., in St. Albans is hosting auditions at 1 to 3 p.m. Saturday, March 10, and 2 to 4 p.m. Sunday, March 11, for the show "Waiting for Godot."

Charleston Stage Company is holding auditions for Steve Martin's "Picasso at the Lapin Agile," at 7 p.m. Sunday and Monday, March 11-12. Parts available for seven men and four women, ages 20-60. Auditions take place at the WVSU Capital Center Theatre, 123 Summers St. Performance dates are May 10-12, 17-19 . Visit www.charlestonstagecompany.com or call 304-766-5721.

Plays -- it's what's for dinner

At 5 p.m. Wednesday, March 14, the Joan C. Edwards Performing Arts Center or the Playhouse, is hosting the performance of three original short plays in a performance called "Three Scrumptious Plays by Erik Hamilton Woods."

Woods will be getting by with a little help from his friends with a live quartet providing the soundtrack to the action. The music is by Nicolas Blain and Mike Waldeck; the plays are directed by Adam Stephens and the stage manager is Christopher Crawford.

The performances are free and open to the public.

'Tecumseh' named for 40th season

One of the region's most beloved outdoor dramas, "Tecumseh!" has just announced that an eight-year veteran of the production will take over the lead role. Stevyn Carmona, who first performed in the outdoor drama in 2004, has been selected the 19th Tecumseh as the production enters its 40th season.

"I have dreamed about portraying the great Shawnee leader since I joined the cast," Carmona said. "My journey to getting the role has been amazing and I wouldn't trade it for anything. "I love the drama, the men and women who keep it running year after year and the city of Chillicothe ... the summer home I can't wait to get back to. 'Tecumseh!' means the world to me."

"Tecumseh!" opens its 2012 season on June 8 and runs through Sept. 1. Shows are at 8 p.m. Monday through Saturday. For additional information and to make reservations visit www.tecumsehdrama.com or visit their Facebook page at "Tecumseh! Outdoor Drama -- Official Site." Reservations can also be made at calling 1-866-775-0700.

A rockin' Easter celebration

This Easter you can celebrate the life of Christ rock opera style as Huntington stage rocker Ryan Hardiman has been cast as the lead role in The Charleston Light Opera Guild's production of the iconic Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber musical, "Jesus Christ Superstar." Donnie Smith reprises his role as Judas Iscariot with Erin Martin as Mary Magdalene, Craig Auge as Pilate and Christopher Connard as Herod. The musical is directed by Dan Kehde, with music direction by Mark Scarpelli and choreography by Robert Royce.

Advance tickets are on sale now for the production which will run March 29-31 as well as April 1, and April 5-7.

For advance reservations, call the WVSU Capitol Center box office at 342-6522 during regular business hours.

One More e-Interview for "How I Learned to Drive"

We have one more e-interview for you from the cast of How I Learned to Drive, which starts tonight in Huntington.

This time around, let's hear from Rhett Pennell, who plays "Uncle Peck."

Q: Why did you want to be part of How I Learned to Drive?

Rhett: I auditioned not knowing much about the play. Truth be told, the appeal was that as a drama it would have a shorter rehearsal run than the musical I was in with the Curtains Up Players last year - Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. I certainly enjoyed my time with CUP in that show, but I'm STILL getting complaints from my seven-year-old daughter about how many nights I was away for that one. THIS show has been a dream - just about every rehearsal has fallen on a night my little lady has her Tae Kwon Do classes... so no complaints.

Now, if you tweak this question into "Why am I thrilled to be IN How I Learned To Drive?" then the answer is that this is a show with rich meat on its bones (there are many reasons it's a Pulitzer Prize winner). It tackles big, dark issues, but it does it with warmth and humor. I'm not so far from my professional acting days (ran off to New York City in the '90s and spent years on the road in National Tours of Children's Shows) that I can't appreciate what a gift I've got in this role - a damaged soul making bad choices and looking for love in the most inappropriate places. It's going to be an acting roller coaster for me come March 8 - 11.

Q: What's the most challenging thing about being in this play?

Rhett: The answer to that is going to change as we get closer to the performances. Right now, my challenge is trying to get the words of Paula Vogel's southern, damaged, middle-aged, alcoholic pedophile to come out of my mouth. As I get a grip on the role, the challenge will be to convince the audience that this is a man worth caring about.

Q: Tell us a bit about your fellow cast members.

I've known Nancy Jackson (Female Chorus) since "Joseph" and have found her to be a wonderful asset to any show (plus my family loves hanging out with her family offstage). The rest of the cast is made of of the Morris family - Kate Morris (Li'l Bit), Greg Morris (Male Chorus), and Olivia (Teenage Chorus) - who are certainly a talented bunch of individuals and who have been known to host a classy soirée at their lovely home. This is Kate's show, and she's going to be great. (Oh, um, Greg will be great, too... and I'm not just saying that because I'll be kissing his wife onstage). And I'd be remiss not to mention our director, Misha Renee, who's the driving force behind this production and whose heartfelt devotion to this play is palpable and inspirational.

Q: Why would you recommend this show to our readers?

Rhett: Because, if we do our jobs right, they are going to laugh, be disturbed, and be moved by this story of a young woman who has been given the tools to deal with the darkness in her life by the unlikeliest of sources. It's a play with serious themes, but there is also love and life and hope.

Q: When and where will the show be staged?

Rhett: Performances will be at the Jeslyn Performing Arts Center (formerly the Camelot Theatre) 1030 4th Avenue, Huntington, on March 8 - 11, Thursday thru Saturday at 8 p.m., Sunday Matinee at 2:30 p.m. Tickets are $10. Please come! (But don't tell my daughter... she'll never be allowed to see it.)

e-Interview #3 with the Cast of "How I Learned to Drive"

For our third cast interview, let's hear from Kate Morris, who plays "Lil’ Bit" in How I Learned to Drive:

Q: Why did you want to be part of How I Learned to Drive?

Kate: I seem to be the only person on Earth who had never heard of this play until recently. When I heard that Curtains Up Players (CUP) was producing it, I got the script and read it, and it really affected me. I knew that I wanted to be part of it in some way. For sure, it is about a woman who survives childhood trauma, and some people could see that as off-putting. But at its core, it’s about so much more than that. It is a story of family, love, strength, and survival. And you don’t have to have experienced something as extreme as Lil’ Bit to connect to her story. I think all of us can relate to having a crazy family that may not have supported us in the way we wanted. Most of us have probably been in a less-than-healthy relationship. And I think just about everyone has had some kind of difficult time to go through; when we’ve had to dig deep and decide if we were going to let our life experiences swallow us up or make us stronger. What is inspiring about this story is that it is about person who has had a tough life. She could’ve thrown in the towel, and let life beat her, but instead she learns, moves on, and shares her story in order to inspire others. We don’t always see female characters like Lil Bit on the stage. She is certainly not perfect, but she is definitely strong, and people with that kind of strength are incredibly interesting to me.

Q: What's the most challenging thing about being in this play?

Kate: Everything that is challenging about this play is also what makes working on it a joy. This story is told in a non-linear way, so Lil Bit moves between ages throughout the story. She starts the story as an adult, and jumps in time between different ages from 17 to 13 to 27 to 11 years old. So, the first challenge was to figure out why the author, Paula Vogel, chose to tell it this way. And I’ve realized that, though it may seem strange at first, this is a very natural way to tell the story of our memories. When we tell the story of our lives, we rarely start at the “beginning” and go through to the end. We often get sidetracked and feel like we have to go back and explain things that happen before or after.

The second challenge for me was not to judge these characters from my personal perspective as we were exploring them. By having to play a 13-year-old, a 17-year-old, etc., the author has challenged me to get in touch with that part of myself that is trusting, naive, and easily manipulated, and to put aside the adult part of me that would jump in and judge and interfere with what these characters are doing. I have never worked on a play where I felt like the playwright was more present in the room without actually being there. Her characters often do things that are unexpected, or react in ways that are opposite to what I, personally, would do or expect. So, as we are going through the rehearsal process we are really delving into human emotions and what makes us, as humans, do what we do. There have been times in rehearsals when we would be discussing a scene at length, then there would be a few moments of silence, and one of us would say, “Wow, this is an amazing script.”

Q: Tell us a bit about your fellow cast members.

Kate: Well, three out of the five actors in this show are related to me, which doesn’t happen very often. Having the opportunity to work with my step-daughter, Olivia, for the first time has been a joy. As a family, we have really been able to get into some of the nitty gritty of the script because we have extra time to discuss it while we’re making dinner or over coffee or while walking the dogs. And what we have realized through discussing the play, is that this play is all about family; how sometimes they misguide us, but usually they are doing their best with what they have learned from their lives, and ultimately they are the most important part of our life. It’s a good lesson to be reminded of.

Q: Why would you recommend this show to our readers?

Kate: This story is about real life. And real life isn’t always neat and pretty. It’s about the human journey from pain and brokenness to healing. It’s about forgiving the past and not letting it control the future. These are not new themes in plays or literature, but it never hurts for us to be reminded of them. In How I Learned to Drive, Paula Vogel asks the actors and the audience to allow themselves to be uncomfortable with the circumstances of the play; because sometimes we have to go to some deep dark places before true growth and healing begins. I am confident that the audience that goes on this journey with us will leave with smiles on their faces and a good feeling about the human will to survive.

Q: When and where will the show be staged?

Kate: It'll be at the Jeslyn Performing Arts Center on 4th Avenue in downtown Huntington, March 8-10 at 8 p.m. and March 11 at 2:30 p.m.

Thanks, Kate!

Auditions for "Waiting for Godot"

Auditions for Waiting for Godot will be held this weekend at the Albans Arts and Conference Center in St. Albans.

They'll be held Saturday, March 10 from 1 to 3 p.m. and Sunday, March 11 from 2 to 4 p.m.

The play focuses on two dilapidated bums who fill their days as painlessly as they can. They wait for Godot, a personage who will explain their interminable insignificance, or put an end to it. They are resourceful, with quarrels and their dependence on each other, as children are. They pass the time 'which would have passed anyway.' A brutal man of means comes by, leading a weakling slave who does his bidding like a mechanical doll. Later on he comes back, blind, and his slave is mute, but the relationship is unchanged. Every day a child comes from the unknown Godot, and evasively puts the big arrival off until tomorrow. It is a tragic view. Yet, in performance, most of it is brilliant, bitter comedy. It is a portrait of the dogged resilience of a man's spirit in the face of little hope.

The Alban Arts and Conference Center is located at 65 Olde Main Street in St. Albans.

The show runs April 27-28, 8 p.m., April 29 at 2 p.m., May 4-5 at 8 p.m. and May 6 at 2 p.m.

Another e-Interview with the Cast of "How I Learned to Drive"

Here's the second of our e-interviews with cast members of the play coming up this weekend, How I Learned to Drive.

This time around we hear from Greg Morris, who plays the Male Greek Chorus.

Q: Why did you want to be part of How I Learned to Drive?

Greg: Good dramas are a rare find in these here parts, and it’s a very good play, one that I knew I would be proud to be a part of. Plus, I’m always looking to grow as an actor, and to work with folks I’ve never worked with before. And it just seemed right.

Q: What's the most challenging thing about being in this play?

Greg: The Male Greek Chorus is not, by any means, a difficult or challenging role; to the contrary, playwright Paula Vogel has written the part so well that there’s really little that I can do to improve it (but a lot I could do to muck it up!). The challenge comes in understanding the Male Greek Chorus’s part in Li’l Bit’s journey, and then seeing to it that I fulfill that character’s function.

Q: Tell us a bit about your fellow cast members.

Greg: Half the other cast members are related to me. It’s a small town.

Q: Why would you recommend this show to our readers?

Greg: If good theater has the power to transform us - and it should have that power, and we should be open to it – then great theater should transform us greatly... at least, that’s the hope, isn’t it? Sure, we go to the theater to be entertained, but even in the entertainment there’s the promise that, somehow, some way, we’ll “leave the theater different than when we went in,” as a character in a play I was recently in said. There’s a lot to think about in this play, and much to come away with. It’s serious, but not too, too serious, and so I think there’s something for everyone.

Q: When and where will the show be staged?

Greg: I have no idea. (Just kidding.) The Jeslyn Performing Arts Center on 4th Avenue in downtown Huntington, March 8-10 at 8 p.m. and March 11 at 2:30 p.m.

Thanks, Greg!

An E-interview with the cast of "How I Learned to Drive"

Coming up this weekend is the drama How I Learned to Drive, so we wanted to hear from the cast - so here's the first of several e-interviews we'll be running this week.

Let's begin with my pal Nancy Jackson, who plays the part of the Female Greek Chorus:

Q: Why did you want to be part of How I Learned to Drive?

Nancy: It's a beautifully written piece that deals with a very touchy subject with loving humor and sensitivity.

Q: What's the most challenging thing about being in this play?

Nancy: There are several monologues for the Female Greek Chorus, which I find challenging because you are not interacting with the other actors on the stage, but through the fourth wall to imaginary characters and/or the audience.

Q: Tell us a bit about your fellow cast members.

Nancy: Curtains Up Players is very lucky to have such tremendous talent in this play. The Morris family is working with us for the first time and I have enjoyed immensely getting to know them as people and working with them as actors. I welcome them to our Curtains Up Players family with open arms! And of course Rhett Pennell, who was a vital part of our production of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat as Simeon (or the guy who sings the French song). Rhett is one of the very special talents in our Tri-State and we (and the audience!) are so fortunate to have him in this role.

Q: Why would you recommend this show to our readers?

Nancy: Absolutely. It is a clandestine look inside the world of this struggling family that is, unfortunately, too common an experience in our society. Chances are, we all know or know of someone who has been affected by just this kind of experience. To be a part of the audience is to reach a new level of understanding and empathy for anyone who has been in this kind of life situation.

Q: When and where will the show be staged?

Nancy: The Jeslyn Performing Arts Center on 4th Avenue in downtown Huntington, March 8-10 at 8 p.m. and March 11 at 2:30 p.m.

Thanks, Nancy!

On Stage This Weekend: "Sweeney Todd: School Edition"

Darn it, somehow I missed this one: the very funny musical Sweeney Todd: The School Edition is being presented this weekend only at the Vern Riffe Center for the Arts in Portsmouth.

Tickets are $10 and can be ordered through the Box Office at 740-351-3642.

Shows are Saturday at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m.

There's also a Thriller pre-show!

I'm hearing rave reviews, so check it out - but hurry!

On Stage This Weekend

There are two great shows being presented this weekend - but you'll have to drive to Charleston to see them (unless you already live there, that is).

Here's the lineup:

- A Piece of My Heart - Charleston Stage Company presents the drama at the Capitol Center Theatre at 123 Summers Street at 7:30 p.m. on March 2 and 3. Taken from actual interviews of Army nurses, Women’s Army Corp, USO performers and Red Cross volunteers, the play details a subject largely missing from the reams of material written about Vietnam, namely the women who served.

- The Vagina Monologues - Kanawha Players presents the play March 2 and 3 at 7:30 p.m. at the Kanawha Players Theatre at 309 Beauregard Street. The performance is a fundraiser for the Starlena Pratt Foundation to support the work of the Kanawha County Victim Services Center.

So get out there and support your local theatre!

On Stage in March 2012

There are several shows on the way for March.

Here's the list:

- How I Learned to Drive - Curtain's Up Players presents the drama at the Jeslyn Theatre on March 8 - 11.

- A Piece of My Heart - Charleston Stage Company presents the drama at the Capitol Center Theatre at 123 Summers Street at 7:30 p.m. on March 1, 2 and 3. Taken from actual interviews of Army nurses, Women’s Army Corp, USO performers and Red Cross volunteers, the play details a subject largely missing from the reams of material written about Vietnam, namely the women who served.

- The Vagina Monologues - Kanawha Players presents the play March 1, 2 and 3 at 7:30 p.m.

- Doubt - The Clay Center presents the drama March 23 at 8 p.m.

- The Sound of Music - The classic musical will be presented at the Paramount Arts Center on March 22, 23 and 24 at 7:30 p.m.

- Annie - The Portsmouth Little Theatre presents the musical about everyone's favorite orphan March 23, 24, 30 and 31 at 7:30 p.m., and March 25 and April 1 at 2 p.m.

- Jesus Christ, Superstar - CYAC presents the beloved musical (starring Ryan Hardiman in the title role) at the Capitol Center Theatre at 123 Summers Street on March 29 - 31, April 1, 5, 6 and 7.

A great lineup! As always, if I've missed any, send in a comment or email me at TheMinskers@aol.com and I'll fix it.

Cast of "1776"

ARTS recently announced its cast for 1776, and it's an all-star lineup!

They just started rehearsal, and I know they're going to have a blast - it's a terrific show! Here's the lineup:

John Hancock - C.E. Wilson

Dr. Josiah Bartlett - Max Wilson

John Adams - Clint McElroy

Stephen Hopkins - Dave Vickers

Roger Sherman - Jedd Flowers

Lewis Morris - Chris Bouquot

Robert Livingston - Justin Carlson

Rev. Jonathan Witherspoon - Ric Griffith

Benjamin Franklin - T. Michael Murdock

John Dickinson - Jim Lamp

James Wilson - Jerry Morse

Caesar Rodney - Charlie Woolcock

Col. Thomas McKean - Mark Near

George Read - Allan Stern

Samuel Chase - Marc Albert

Richard Henry Lee - Jon Lamp

Thomas Jefferson - Stephen Vance

Edward Rutledge - David Day

Dr. Lyman Hall - Scott Black

Charles Thomson - Ken Bannon

Andrew McNair - Todd Green

The Courier - Greg Kiser

Abigail Adams - Leann Haines

Martha Jefferson - Kathryn Davis