A Final Interview With the Cast of "Shenandoah"

Armaan

    This afternoon I caught the final performance of the musical Shenandoah at the Renaissance Theatre in Huntington - and I’m so glad I did!

   It was a wonderful show, with great music, terrific dancing and powerful performances by an all-star cast (and an amazing orchestra). I’ll have more to say about it in the week ahead, but it was something special - I hope you saw it!

   We're running late with this, but we have three interviews to share with some of the young actors who starred in the show (my apologies for the technical difficulties that kept me from posting this sooner). Let’s hear from Armaan Karimpour, Trinity Tiffany and Xavier Stambaugh:

Q: Shenandoah was a popular film - but in case our reader isn’t familiar with it, tell us the basic story.

Tiffany: Set in the civil war and a family who doesn’t want to be involved in the war but everyone around them is trying to drag them into it. 

Armaan: Takes place during 1863 during the Civil War and the Yankees and confederates are starting to get close to Shenandoah where the Anderson family lives. They are trying to stay out of the war and the cannons and fights are starting to get closer. James thinks they should be involved in the war while Charlie says it’s not their war and it doesn’t concern them, until the youngest son gets stolen by the Yankees.

Xavier: It’s a story about the Civil War and how a family starts to fight about the war and they think their land is going to get destroyed if they don’t fight. In the midst of that the boy gets taken by the Union. They go to find him and they are actually dragged into the war. 

Trinity

Q: Tell us about the character you play.

Triunity: I play a Civil War girl whose dad goes off to help with the war and carry prisoners and slaves in his train. 

Armaan: The Boy is the youngest Anderson son. He likes to mimic people, especially his brothers and the pastor. He can be very playful, but he doesn’t like fighting best. 

Xavier: My character is a confederate soldier that fights in the war and is very young. The Confederate army is running out of soldiers so they start allowing younger boys to fight. I’m very scared because I really don’t want to fight but I’m made to.

Q: What’s your favorite song in the show?

Armaan: My favorite song is “Next to Lovin’.”

Trinity: “Next to Lovin’.”

Xavier: My favorite song is “Raise the Flag of Dixie.”

Xavier

Q: What’s your background in theatre?

Xavier: I’ve been in The Music Man at Backstage Players, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, and ACTC’s The Christmas Carol three times. 

Armaan: I’ve done five other shows including Seussical the Musical, The Little Mermaid and The Bully Plays.

Trinity: I’ve taken Helen Freeman’s Monday night acting classes and then became involved in HOT.

Q: What’s the most challenging thing in this show?

Armaan: Acting with all the adults. It’s different from children’s theatre.

Trinity: Learning about what they did during the Civil War time and how they did things.

Xavier: Trying to get used to all the different personalities in the play.

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

Armaan: It’s a good story. It’s a show about how important family can be.

Trinity: It’s fun to watch and you also learn things while watching it.

Xavier: It has a good story line and teaches you about sticking together as a family.

   Thanks!

"The Magic Flute" - An Interview

   It's a great weekend for music lovers, as Marshall University's School of Music and Theatre offers a performance of The Magic Flute!

   Here's an interview with one of the musicians taking part in today's final performance - Olivia Hay:

Q: For those who aren’t familiar The Magic Flute, tell us about it.

Olivia: The Magic Flute is an opera by Mozart, an incredible composer from the 18th century who is still quite famous for his operas. This opera tells the story of Tamino, a prince, who must undergo many trials in his quest for the beautiful Pamina. However, the plot, though quite complex and interesting, pales in comparison to the pure genius of the music as it brings the audience on journey of emotions while the plot progresses.

Q: What's your part in the performance? 

Olivia: I am a violinist in the orchestra. The orchestra sets the mood for the opera with the overture, introduces many of the arias, and lays a groundwork of support for the singers.

Q: What's your background in music?   

Olivia: I have played violin for 10 years, and piano for 12. Now I am in my second year of study at Marshall University, majoring in Violin Performance and Music Education. I have performed with several orchestras and participated in various festivals over the years, but this opera is the greatest musical experience I have been privileged to be a part of. 

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

Olivia: Everyone participating in this production is simply ecstatic to share this music with the community. The greatest joy in music is in sharing with others, and we can not wait to share our excitement. The music speaks for itself, and the performers are simply wonderful! It is the best kind of entertainment, and I think everyone will enjoy it.

Q: Tell us the dates, times and place for the show.

Olivia: The final concert at City Hall in Huntington will be on Sunday, Nov. 20 at 3:00 p.m. 

   Thanks, Olivia!

Technical Difficulties - and Final Shows for "Superman," "Shenandoah" and "The Magic Flute"

   Sorry for the lack of posts, gentle readers - your pal Chuck has been shut down by the crashing and burning of his Internet access - this tiny update is about all I can manage right now.

   It's especially aggravating because there are so many great shows running in our area this weekend - tomorrow, for example, is your last chance to catch the musical It's a Bird, It's a Plane, It's Superman, which is being presented by First Stage Theatre at the new Huntington High School. The final show starts at 2 p.m. on Sunday.

   It's also the final show for the musical Shenandoah, which is being presented by ARTS. It's a touching show about a family buffeted by the Civil War. The final show is at 2 p.m. Sunday at the old Huntington High School at 900 8th Street.

   It's also the last performance of the opera The Magic Flute at 3 p.m. at the Huntington City Hall auditorium. It's presented by the Marshall University School of Music and Theatre. And it's in English!

   All three shows are real delights, and I've heard nothing but rave reviews - so pick one and support your local arts efforts. They're counting on you!

Interview #5 With the Cast of "Shenandoah"

   I've been struggling with some Internet issues, but I'm going to do my best to share the last few interviews I have with the cast of the show Shenandoah (Internet, don't fail me now)!

   The musical wraps up its run this weekend at the Renaissance Theatre in Huntington.

   Let’s hear from my pal, the talented Jonathan Armstrong, who plays a Confederate Soldier and Federal Purchasing Agent:

Q: Shenandoah was a popular film - but in case our reader isn’t familiar with it, tell us the basic story.

Jonathan: Shenandoah is about the Anderson family who has mixed emotions about joining the Civil War. The father, Charlie Anderson, believes it does not involve his family. The brothers have conflicting views on the war. The Anderson family is forced into the war in one way or another and their responses to the varying situations become the focus. 

Q: Tell us about the character you play.

Jonathan: I am a Confederate soldier who wants to protect the state of Virginia. Virginia is under attack and my duty to the state is to lay down my life to protect it. 

Q: What’s your favorite part of the show?

Jonathan: My favorite part of the show is when Charlie Anderson realizes the consequences the war has had on his family and takes it out on a Confederate soldier. 

Q: What’s your background in theatre?

Jonathan: The Man Who Came to Dinner and church skits. 

Q: What’s the most challenging thing in this show?

Jonathan: The rifle routine in the first number. 

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

Jonathan: Shenandoah shows the cause and effect of life. 

Q: Tell us the dates, times and place for the show.

Jonathan: The show runs Oct. 18, 19 and 20, Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. at ARTS Resources for the Tri-State in the old Huntington High School theatre at 900 8^th Street.

   Thanks, Jonathan!

Interview #4 with the Cast of "Shenandoah"

  This weekend is your last chance to catch the musical Shenandoah on stage in Huntington, so let’s share a few more interviews with the cast.

   Today let’s hear from one of the youngest actors in the show - Will Meadows, who plays the part of Gabriel:

Q: Shenandoah was a popular film - but in case our reader isn't familiar with it, tell us the basic story.

Will: Shenandoah is a Civil War-era musical set in the fall of 1863. The action of the play takes place in the Shenandoah Valley, Va., after the Confederate loss at Gettysburg. The story is centered on Charlie Anderson, his six sons, one daughter, and expecting daughter-in-law. Charlie Anderson is a farmer and widower of 12 years who has decided that the Civil War is not his war, and that his family is not going to take part in it. This Tony Award-winning musical is based on the Jimmy Stewart movie of the same name. Shenandoah is about family and duty in the most challenging of times. 

Q: Tell us about the character you play.

Will: I play a black 12-year-old slave who goes to the Anderson’s house a lot. He’s best friends with their youngest son. 

Q: What’s your favorite part (or song) of the show?

Will: “Freedom.”

Q: What’s your background in theatre?

Will: I made my theatre debut in HOT’s Hairspray this summer.

Q: What’s the most challenging thing in this show?

Will: Trying to talk like a slave. They didn’t use proper grammar.

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

Will: It’s good! You get to see all aspects of the war that people don’t think about. 

Q: Tell us the dates, times and place for the show.

Will: The show runs Oct. 18, 19 and 20, Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. at ARTS Resources for the Tri-State in the old Huntington High School theatre at 900 8^th Street.

   Thanks, Will!

Auditions for "Laughter on the 23rd Floor"

   Here's a note from my pal Mike Murdock about auditions Monday and Tuesday night for the next ARTS show: Laughter on the 23rd Floor:

TOMORROW! (Monday & Tuesday) 7 p.m.! (Both days)

AUDITIONS for Neil Simon's Laughter on the 23rd Floor
It's the final show in the ARTS inaugural season.
It's directed by Mike Murdock.

It's an ensemble, fast-paced, HILARIOUS comedy. Simon's funniest, in my opinion!

We'll be doing cold readings!

I need SIX GUYS for the following roles!

Max Prince (Star of the Max Prince show): Mid-40s to early 50s.
He appears to be taller than he is because he exudes great strength. His strength comes more from his anger than from his physique. He dominates a room with his personality. You must watch him because he's like a truck you can't get out of the way of. He is quixotic, changing quickly from warm, infectious laughter to sullen anger. He is often monosyllabic, offering a word or two to convey his thoughts.

Lucas Brickman (New Writer): early 20s, sincere and sensible.

Milt Fields (Flamboyant): Mid-20s to 40s, Milt is a gag man, a joke-a-minute wholesaler who deals in fast paced patter.

Brian Doyle (Irish American): Mid-20s to mid-40s. A heavy smoker, a heavy cougher and a heavy drinker, but with a biting sense of humor as caustic as his outlook on life.

Kenny Franks (Wiz kid): Late-20s to Mid-30s. Boy genius and the most sophisticated of the writers.

Ira Stone (Hypochondriac): Late 20s to early 40s. A hypochondriac who comes in late every day with a new ailment. His greatest wish in life was to have a virus named after him.

The rest of the info you need is probably in the description of the event! Here it is:

https://www.facebook.com/events/412087015557441/?source=1

There's never been a better time to be at ARTS! Join us, won't you?

   By the way, I agree with Mike - I think this is Neil Simon's funniest play!

"Superman" - a Review

   There are two great shows on stage this weekend and next in Huntingotn. One is Shenandoah at the old Huntington High School - I haven't seen it yet, but a friend saw it last night and he loved it.

   My lovely wife and I did see It's a Bird, It's a Plane, It's Superman last night, and had a great time - it's a fun throwback to the 1960s with wonderful performances, terrific singing and dancing, an outstanding orchestra and great flying effects. But I admit I'm prejudiced - I'm on the board of First Stage Theatre Company.

   So instad, let's get a review from a theatre newbie (and his much more experienced dad), as local playwright Jonathan Joy joins forces with his three-and-a-half-year-old son Levi to review "Superman:"

(Jon notes that this review contains SPOILERS regarding the preshow.)

Jon: Did you like the play?
Levi: Uh-huh.

Jon: What was your favorite part?
Levi: Spider-Man. (Spider-Man makes an appearance during the preshow and my son is a huge Spider-Man fan.)

Jon: Did you like the singing and dancing?
Levi: Yes.

Jon: Did you like it when Superman was flying through the air?
Levi: Yes. 

Jon: Do you want me to take you to see more plays?
Levi: Yes!

He also talked quite a bit about the ninjas and, upon returning home, proclaimed at least six times, "It's a Bird! It's a Plane! It's Superman!"

He thoroughly enjoyed it. 

He was also a big fan of the bathroom at Huntington High School, as we made at least five trips in just under two hours.

He did have one suggestion. He thought Iceman and Firestar should have also been included in the preshow. (Big thumbs up for including one of the Incredibles, though.)

I was a bit concerned halfway through the first act when he asked to leave, but it turned out he just had to go to the bathroom. Each time we went to the bathroom he said, "We better hurry. Superman is going to be very angry."

Nice job, First Stage! Thank you very much!

   Thanks, Jon and Levi! I told Jon we'd be glad to share any future reviews in this space!

"Shenandoah"

   There's a great story in today's Herald-Dispatch by Dave Lavender about the musical Shenandoah, which takes the stage tonight at the old Huntington High School. (The photo above is by Toril Lavender.)

   You can read the story right here - and here's an excerpt:

   If you hear musket fire from inside the old Huntington High School this weekend, you might not want to call the cops, it's just the folks at Arts Resources of the Tri-State turning back the clock to the drama of the Civil War. 

   Armed with an orchestra, a more than 40-member cast and crew and a Tony Award-winning story, director Stephen Vance and ARTS presents a rare local performance of the Civil War-themed musical "Shenandoah" at the Huntington High Renaissance Center, located at 900 8th St., Huntington. 

   "Shenandoah," runs 8 p.m. Oct. 11-12 and Oct. 18-19. Matinee shows are 3 p.m. on Oct. 13 and 20. Cost is $15 for show only and $30 for Friday and Saturday dinner and a show. 

   Call 304 733 ARTS(2787) or get tickets at the door. Dinner reservations fill up quickly and should be reserved in advance. 

   Vance, one of ARTS' four company directors, which also includes Gene Anthony, Bil Neal and Michael Murdock, said he picked this musical to do after falling in love with a song from the show ("I've Heard it All Before") that Neal sang a couple years ago at a cabaret. 

   "The original reason I picked the show was hearing him sing a song from the show, and then when I read the script it was crazy good. The script is what won it the Tony for Best Book." Vance said the fact that the musical, which was out in 1974-1975, and based on the 1965 non-musical film starring Jimmy Stewart, had never been done here was a good reason to put on the show, as was the fact that this is the 150th anniversary of West Virginia, the only state born out of the Civil War.

On Stage This Weekend: "Superman," "Shenandoah," "Seussical" and "Charlotte"

   Lots of great shows taking the stage this weekend - and they all start tonight! 

   Here, courtesy of my pal Ryan Hardiman, is the rundown for this weekend:

- It's a Bird... It's a Plane... It's Superman! (Musical)

First Stage Theatre Company

Fri.-Sat., Oct 11-12 and 18-19 at 7 p.m.

Matinees Sun Oct 13 and 20 at 2 p.m.

Huntington High School (The new one)

1 Highlander Way, Huntington, WV

$12 Adult / $10 Child and Seniors / Group rate available

304-416-KIDS

- Shenandoah (Musical)

Arts Resources for the Tri-State (ARTS)

Fri.-Sat., Oct. 11-12 / 18-19 at 8 p.m. (Dinner at 6:30 p.m.)

Matinees Sun., Oct 13 and 20 at 2 p.m.

ARTS Renaissance Theatre at Old Huntington High School

900 8th Street, Huntington, WV

$15 Show Only, $30 Dinner & Show (Dinner available Oct 11, 18, 19)

Call 304-733-2787 for reservations.

- Seussical, Jr. (Musical)

Children's Theatre of Charleston

Fri., Oct 11 at 7 p.m.

Sat., Oct 12 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.

Sun., Oct 13 at 2 p.m.

Charleston Civic Center Little Theatre

200 Civic Center Dr, Charleston, WV

$12 Adults / $10 Students under 18

- Charlotte's Web (Play)

Capital High School

Fri,.-Sat., Oct. 11 - 12 at 7:30 p.m.

Capital High School

1500 Greenbrier St. Charleston, WV

Adults $10, students $6, children 5 and under free

- The Ghost of Windsor Manor (Interactive Murder Dinner Party)

Murder and Merriment

Fri.-Sat., October 11 - 12 at 7 p.m..

Greenhouse of Teays Valley

Hurricane, WV

$40, Reservations required

866-397-6316

Interview #4 With the Cast of "Superman!"

   For our fourth interview with the cast of It’s a Bird, It’s a Plane, It’s Superman, let’s hear from the most famous female reporter ever - Lois Lane!

   Superman’s love interest is played by the talented and lovely Meg Barber - here’s what she had to say about having a crush on the Man of Steel:

Q: Everyone knows Superman - but what's the basic story of the musical?

Meg: The musical basically tells the story of Superman and his influence throughout this city. It involved a love story, an evil villain, a competitive news paper boy... pretty much everything that was in the first series of the comics.

Q: Tell us about the character you play.

Meg: I'm Lois Lane. Ms. Lane grew up on a farm and is extremely goal driven. She very much wants to be the best reporter in Metropolis; however, she falls in love and that shakes things up quite a bit. I can personally relate to Lois very well and I love being able to transform into her.

Q: What's your favorite song in the show?

Meg: I enjoy the songs "We Need Him" and "I'm Not Finished Yet.”

Q: What's your background in theatre?

Meg: I have been in plays since the fourth grade, my first being Babes in Toyland. Ever since I've been hooked! I've played Gertrude McFuzz in Seussical, Lucy in Snoopy the Musical, and several others. I attended the Governors School of the Arts for Vocal music this past summer, take voice lessons, and tap and ballet.

Q: If you get to fly in the show - what's it like (is it as much fun as it looks)?

Meg: It's very painful but a blast! I wish I could fly more!

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

Meg: It's a great family show. Not only does it involve a beloved superhero, but also includes a great story that everyone will love. 

Q: Tell us the dates, times and place for the show.

Meg: The two middle weekends in October, Huntington High School!

   Thanks, Meg! The show starts tomorrow (Friday) at 7 p.m. - don’t miss it!

"Shenandoah" Photo Gallery

    You can catch some great photos from the musical Shenandoah on the Herald-Dispatch's photo gallery right here.

    The photos (including the one above) were taken by Toril Lavender. The show starts this Friday at the Renaissance Theatre in Huntington!

Interview #3 With the Cast of "Superman!"

   What could be more fun than playing the bad guy?

   For our third interview with the cast of the musical It’s a Bird, It’s a Plane, It’s Superman (which takes the stage this Friday in Huntington), let’s hear from the “heavy” in the show, played by the talented Chris Drown:

Q: Everyone knows Superman - but what's the basic story of the musical?

Chris: The musical takes a complete different approach to the well-known story of Superman. It keeps the basic backstory, but it adds so much to it, letting the audience see the story unfold on Superman’s inner-self, a corrupt reporter’s lust for power, an evil scientist’s (me) journey for “Revenge,” and a woman’s hopeless love towards the incredible symbol of goodness.

Q: Tell us about the character you play.

Chris: I play the nefarious Dr. Abner Sedgwick, the 10-time Nobel Prize loser, who has an extreme need to get revenge on the world who slighted him from his life’s ambition. How is he going to do that? By destroying Superman, of course!

Q: What's your favorite part (or song) of the show?

Chris: The show is so wonderful that it is hard to choose! The talent in the cast is tremendous, and we all provide wonderful renditions of our characters’ songs and scenes. I absolutely love the songs “You’ve Got Possibilities,” “It’s Superman,” “Revenge,” and “You’ve Got What I Need.” The list goes on and on.

Q: What's your background in theatre?

Chris: I am relatively new to theatre. I started at Huntington High as a freshman in the plays Alice in Wonderland and Grease. This is my third show, and first principal role, and I am absolutely loving the opportunity, and hope to continue pursuing theatre for a very long time.

Q: If you get to fly in the show, what's it like (is it as much fun as it looks)?

Chris: I don’t get to fly, but from what I see, I am very glad I don’t have to. It looks rather frightening.

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

Chris: I wish for absolutely everyone to see this show. The talent far exceeds children’s theatre, and bounds to an almost professional level. It is an extraordinary sight to see, with exceptional special effects, and incredible direction and choreography. This show is a spectacle that you will never forget.

Q: Tell us the dates, times and place for the show.

Chris: The show takes place at (the new) Huntington High School on Oct. 10, 11, 12, 18, 19 and 20 - Fridays and Saturdays at 7 p.m. with Sunday matinees at 2 p.m. 

   Thanks, Chris!

Interview #3 With the Cast of "Shenandoah!"

   For our third interview with the cast of Shenandoah, let’s hear from my pal Bil Neal, a wonderful guy and a triple threat - he’s a terrific actor, a wonderful director and is doing an amazing job as the current president of ARTS!

   He has some delightful comments to share about this show, which starts this Friday at the Renaissance Theatre in Huntington:

Q: Shenandoah was a popular film - but in case our reader isn't familiar with it, tell us the basic story. 

Bil: The story of Shenandoah involves one man's struggle to protect his family, and keep them out of the Civil War. I play that man, Charlie Anderson.  

Q: What's your favorite part of the show? 

Bil: This is an great story, and I get to work with some awesome actors from the area. There's just too much about it that I enjoy. 

   The last time I was onstage with Jesse Riggs he played my adversary in fighting over a woman. This time he plays my oldest son. He brings such a sweet honesty to this role that I enjoy our stage time together. 

   Playing my second son, James, is Eric Wilson. Such a pleasure to work with him - such a strong actor, and an all-around Good Guy. 

   In the role of Nathan is another stage local favorite - Brian Cook. Having played my son onstage once before, I can only say that any man would be pleased to call him "Son." I certainly am, even if it’s only again onstage. 

   Clay McKnight is my son John. So many enjoyed his work in Cabaret and How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying, and I'm a huge fan. 

   As my only daughter, Jenny, I've really enjoyed the rehearsal process with Emma Grace Imes. One of the youngest members of ARTS Company, and certainly a pleasure to watch. I'm crazy about her. 

   I've always enjoyed Andrew Surber every time I've seen him on area stages. He catches your eye, and he's so much fun. He brings that playfulness to life at ARTS as my son, Henry. I'd love to work with him again... and often.

   Arman Karimpour has a special place in my heart, as my youngest son Robert. I think he's the son who looks most like me physically, but he certainly dances better than I do. When he sings and dances with Will Meadows I stay in the wings and watch. They're both a pleasure to have working with us. 

   I've never gotten to sing with Leann Haines. It's still a dream of mine (she's amazingly talented that way), but this time I do get to have her as a daughter-in-law.  The poignancy and quiet strength she brings to the role of Anne is lovely. 

   It's so good to have Eric Newfeld around anywhere, but when you're looking for a son-in-law (onstage or off), there are few that reach the level our man Eric does.  

   I may be biased, but I think Jonathan Maynard is excellent in this role. I've enjoyed every minute I've gotten to work with him.  

   I've enjoyed Tristan Reynolds in several ARTS shows this year, and with good reason.  He's really good with what he brings in this production. You may be surprised to know that his younger sister Fiona also has substantial talent. As the guy who sits directly in front of her while she's singing, I'm amazed at the quality and volume that child produces. 

   There's so many more people I'd love to brag on in this production, I could talk about all of them for days, but you asked me what's my favorite part of this show?  The people... and the characters they've created. 

   I loved watching Coni Anthony work her magic for me in How to Succeed, and she has (mercifully) chosen to not rely on my innate dancing abilities and work my sons instead. I love that. 

   Mike Naglee? Really? Awesomeness onstage and off: fight choreographer: weapons master: husband of Jenn Naglee? I want to be him.  

   Director Stephen Vance took an eclectic group of theatre folk and has given us the time and space to play. This has been a once-in-a-lifetime chance for me, and I hope to get all the memories out of it that I can. I can't thank that guy enough for letting me be a part of this. 

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

Bil: Why wouldn't I recommend a show with these people?  Guns, singing, fighting, dancing, passion, war, love, and a full orchestra.  I'm having the time of my life. Please come see this show. 

Q: Tell us the dates, times and place for the show.

Bil: We're at the OLD Huntington High (900 Eighth Street in Huntington), the curtain goes up at 8 p.m. Oct. 11,12,18,19, and matinée on Sunday at 2 p.m. on Oct. 13 and 20. Join us for dinner if you like and make an evening of it!  Call 304-733-2787 for reservations.

   Thanks, Bil! And thanks to Stephen Vance for the photo! 

Interview #2 With the Cast of "Superman!"

   For our second interview with the cast of the musical It’s a Bird, It’s a Plane, It’s Superman (which takes the stage this Friday in Huntington), let’s hear from the wonderful and talented Sarah Bryan:

Q: Everyone knows Superman - but what's the basic story of the musical?

Sarah: Double-lives, fighting crime, the traditional battle of good and evil, and, of course, love and other complications weave their way into Superman's life.  He has to balance these obstacles while still keeping his "Super" mentality.

Q: Tell us about the character you play.

Sarah: Sydney is an assertive woman born in a very inconvenient time. An outgoing, love-hungry lady, she has to deal with the ignorance of the average man, all the while plotting against Superman with her villainous boyfriend, Max.

Q: What's your favorite song in the show?

Sarah: "You've Got Possibilities" ("Mountains can be moveable if the spirit's strong" - best lyric of the show!)  

Q: What's your background in theatre?

Sarah: I have been participating in theatre since I was in the fifth grade, and I have been in almost 20 shows since then. I have been involved with various theatre groups around Huntington, including Fifth Avenue, ARTs, The Marshall Artist Series, and Huntington High. First Stage Theatre Company is my home, though, and I love it with all my heart.

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

Sarah: Let's be honest, everyone loves a good superhero.  With flying, action, drama and love, what more could you ask for in a play? 

Q: Tell us the dates, times and place for the show.

Sarah: First Stage Theatre Company will be presenting Superman the second and third weekend of October at Huntington High School, 7 p.m. for the evening shows (Friday and Saturday nights), and 2 p.m. for the matinees (Sunday afternoons). 

   Thanks, Sarah!

Interview #2 With the Cast of "Shenandoah!"

   It’s time for our second interview with the cast of the musical Shenandoah, which takes the stage this Friday in Huntington! 

   Today let’s hear from the talented Len Trent, who plays the part of Carol and a Soldier. He’s a man of few words, but he gets right to the point:

Q: Shenandoah was a popular film - but in case our reader isn't familiar with it, tell us the basic story.

Len: This is the story of the Anderson family and their struggle to maintain a normal life during the Civil War. 

Q: What's your favorite part of the show? 

Len: The scuffle.

Q: What's your background in theatre? 

Len: Acting and stage combat, in one way or another, for 20 years.

Q: What's the most challenging thing staging this show? 

Len: My facial hair.

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

Len: It deals with a very difficult time in America's history.

Q: Tell us the dates, times and place for the show.

Len: Oct. 11, 12, 18, 19 at 8 p.m., Oct. 13 and 20 at 2 p.m. at 

Arts Resources for the Tri-State, Renaissance Theatre (the old Huntington High School).

   Thanks, Len!

Interview #1 With the Cast of "Superman!"

   It’s as Bird, It’s a Plane, It’s Superman! That's one of the opening lines from the original TV and radio shows - and it’s also the title of the musical that first appeared on Broadway in the ‘60s. 

   For the first time, it’s appearing on stage in Huntington, as First Stage Theatre Company presents the show.

   Over the next couple of weeks we’ll be doing interviews with some of the cast members of that musical - and let’s start with Superman himself, played by Drew Edwards, a high school senior who has grown up on local stages.

Q: Everyone knows Superman - but what's the basic story of the musical?

Drew: So basically Dr. Sedgewick (the bad guy) wants to kill Superman because he's mad at the world. Max Mencken wants Superman gone so his stories will be on the front page and so Lois Lane will pay attention to him. Superman then has to sort this big mess out while still keeping his identity! Obviously there is more but I can't give it all away!

Q: Tell us about the character you play.

Drew: I play Clark Kent / Superman and I think everyone knows about him! Clark is a quiet but nice guy. He'll never say no and will always be there to help someone out, which kind of makes him a bit of a pushover. All he wants is Lois Lane to acknowledge his existence but all she wants is Superman. Which brings me to Superman! He's the Man of Steel, what else is there to say? He helps the citizens of Metropolis with anything they could need and they love him for that!

Q: What's your favorite song in the show?

Drew:: My favorite song of the show would have to be "You've Got What I Need" even though I don't sing it.

Q: What's your background in theatre?

Drew: I have been performing with First Stage Theatre since 2007 and have been in a least one show every year.  I also take vocal lessons from Roger Lucas in Charleston.

Q: You get to fly in the show - is it as much fun as it looks?

Drew: It is a lot of fun but it also is a lot of work. It's difficult to keep control of your body and you have to flex the entire time you are up there. It also is not the most comfortable thing in the world!

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

Drew: I would recommend this show because it has something for everyone. It has Superman, who catches the bad guys for the younger audience, but then it also has a love triangle to pull in the older viewers. There is something that everyone can relate to!

Q: Tell us the dates, times and place for the show.

Drew: It’s as Bird, It’s a Plane, It’s Superman runs the second two weekends of October and it is performed at (the new) Huntington High School. The Friday and Saturday performances are at 7 p.m. and the Sunday performances are at 2 p.m.

   Thanks, Drew!

Interview #1 with the Cast of "Shenandoah"

   For our first interview with the cast of Shenandoah (which takes the stage in Huntington next weekend), let's hear from my pal Eric Wilson, a terrific actor and performer who's a member of the ARTS Acting Troupe.
 

Q: Shenandoah was a popular film - but in case our reader isn’t familiar with it, tell us the basic story.

Eric: To me, Shenandoah is about a family trying to do the best they can with only their own, in a time when this was not the common way of things especially in the south. The war is going on and we’ve done our best to keep our farm alive and well. But now the war is in our backyard and things start changing for our family. 

Q: Tell us about the character you play.

Eric: I’m playing James Anderson, the second oldest son. He’s kind of the firecracker in the family. He’s unafraid to speak his mind. He is married with a baby on the way. He has a free spirit and a very free way of speaking. Next to lovin’ he likes fightin’ most. 

Q: What’s your favorite part of the show?

Eric: Getting to go toe to toe and face to face with Bil Neal in a father-son way has been one of the most rewarding experiences I have had at ARTS. Also all the quality time I’ve spent with my brothers to create a family feeling has been rewarding to both the production and myself. 

Q: What’s your background in theatre?

Eric: I’ve been doing theatre since 1999. I got to play Gandalf before Sir Ian McKellan ever did and haven’t stopped since. I’ve worked in dozens of community, regional, collegiate and professional productions doing both tech and performing on stage.  

Q: What’s the most challenging thing in this show?

Eric: The bodily harm that comes from taking the falls the way I do. I like to feel the pain on stage and how it brings me into my character… but I walk away with a few more bruises and aches. 

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

Eric: It’s a beautiful story that you’ve probably seen in other forms, but with music involved and the wonderfully simple choreography provided by Connie Anthony keeps it moving from beginning to end. Stephen Vance’s direction has been simple and clear. I really think we’ve put the team's vision together in a way I think you guys will really love. 

Q: Tell us the dates, times and place for the show.

Eric: It will be presented Oct. 11, 12, 13, 18, 19 and 20, Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. at the old Huntington High School theatre at 900 8^th Street.

   Thanks, Eric!

A Busy Two Weeks On Stage in Huntington!

   Great news for theatre fans in the tri-state area - there are two great, rarely-seen, classic musicals taking the stage in Huntington over the next two weekends!

   One is based on the world's most famous superhero. It's a Bird, It's a Plane, It's Superman is being presented by First Stage Theatre Company at (the new) Huntington High School. It was first presented on Broadway in the '60s, has never been performed locally.

   The other is based on a beloved Jimmy Stewart film. Shenandoah is being presented by ARTS in (the old) Huntington High School. The musical tells about the heartfelt effect of the Civil War on a family.

   We'll be running interviews over the next week or two with cast members from each show, so watch for those!

   They're both terrific shows - you'll want to mark your calendars and make time to see both shows (maybe more than once)!

On Stage This Weekend: "Anna in the Tropics" and "Our Town"

   You have two excellent shows to choose from this weekend - one in Huntington and one in Charleston:

- Anna in the Tropics - Marshall University’s Theatre Alliance presents the play Oct. 4 and 5 at 7:30 p.m. at the Joan C. Edwards Playhouse. Set in a Florida Cigar factory in 1929, it focuses on the lives of Cuban immigrants who work there. At the time it was common for factories to employ “lectors” who entertained and educated workers by reading passages of literature to them. In the play, a new lector chooses “Anna Karenina” as a work, and unwittingly sets off a change in the worker’s lives. 

- Our Town - CYAC (Contemporary Youth Arts Company) presents the classic play by Thornton  Wilder on Oct. 4, 5 and 6 at 8 p.m. at the WVSU Capitol Center Theater at 123 Summers Street in Charleston. 

   So get out there and support your community theatre!