Auditions Next Weekend for "Dear Edwina"

   Auditions are being held next weekend for the First Stage production of Dear Edwina - which might seem surprising, since the show won't be staged until the spring of 2014. 

   But there's a good reason for the early start - as this announcement will explain:

Audition Notice: Winter & Spring 2014 First Stage Theatre Company's 24th season
Director: Amy Browning
Producer: Jeanette Bailey
Choreographer: Melissa McGuffin
Musical Director: Chris Bowling

The company will soon have auditions for the musical Dear Edwina, a heartwarming musical about the joys of growing up. With the help of her friends, siblings and neighbors Edwina Spoonapple strives to be acknowledged for her accomplishments as well as her advice. “Told through a show-within-a-show format, Edwina and her friends share wisdom that is sure to delight.”

In addition to the full-length play in April, First Stage Theatre Company has been accepted to the Junior Theatre Festival this winter and will take approximately 20 members of the cast of Dear Edwina to perform and learn from professionals in the in the field of musical theatre.

To audition actors must be 10 years old at the time of the July audition and have performed or worked tech for at least one First Stage production previously. We will also host a informational Parents’ Meeting to answer questions (parents are not required to attend for their child to audition, although it is encouraged).  

Parents’ Meeting: Monday, July 22 – 6:30 p.m.
Auditions Dates: Saturday, July 27 - 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

February 2014 (date and location TBA)
This audition will be for additional chorus members who are unable to attend the Junior Theatre Festival and younger actors interested in participating in the April shows.

Location for the Meeting and Auditions:
Pea Ridge United Methodist Church
5747 East Pea Ridge Road
Huntington, WV 25705 

Actors should come with a 45 second audition song (accompanist, CD and tape player will be available) and be prepared to learn a short dance.
Rehearsals will begin in the fall. The Junior Theatre Festival will be one long weekend in January in Atlanta, GA. The show, which will run two weekends at the Renaissance Center in Huntington, will open on April 4.
Festival Dates: January 17-19, 2014 
Show Dates: April 4-6, 10-13, 2014

If you have questions please contact the production team at dearedwina2014@gmail.com.

"Hairspray" Interview #2 - Kennie Bass

   For our second interview with the cast of Hairspray (running this weekend and next at the Ritter Park Amphitheatre), let's hear from Kennie Bass, a talented singer and actor and a veteran of the stage in both Huntington and Charleston:

Q: Hairspray is a hit Broadway musical and movie - tell us the basic story.

Kennie: It's about inclusion. It's about acceptance. It's about passion and following your dream. All of that is wrapped up in 1962 Baltimore, where segregation is still alive, a local dance show is all the craze and a young girl with a big heart and bigger hair tries to make a difference.

Q: Tell us about the character you play.

Kennie: I am honored to play Wilbur Turnblad, father of Tracy (Jessica Cooper) and husband to Edna (Levi Kelley). He's a sweet, funny guy who works hard for his family running his very own Joke and Novelty shop, the "Har-Dee-Har-Hut". However, behind the laughs he has a passionate love for his larger-than-life wife and will protect and defend his child no matter the cost. It's a fun character. I'm glad I've gotten to know him.

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

Kennie: There are a few. The high energy of the "Corny Collins Show," featuring Corny himself (Ryan Hardiman) and a fantastic troupe of dancers including Casey Homonai and Alaina Krantz. There's just lots of great choreography from Kerri Easter Stambaugh and the dancers nail it. I love anytime Tracy sings, she has some wonderful moments. Motormouth Maybelle's (Rhonda Joplin) "Big, Blonde and Beautiful" is funny with an edge while her "I Know Where I've Been" will give you chills. And I really like Wilbur's romantic duet with Edna, "Timeless To Me," it's both funny and touching. And..."You Can't Stop the Beat" is an awesome finale.

Q: What's your background in theatre?

Kennie: I've been acting since 3rd grade. In my "career" I've been fortunate to work with some amazingly talented people and play roles I had dreamed about, including Bill Sikes in "Oliver" (twice!), Oscar Madison in "The Odd Couple." Some of my favorite shows I've been in include "The Wedding Singer," "Legally Blonde," "Jekyll & Hyde," "Evita," "A Few Good Men," "Oliver!" and "Willy Wonka." Don't let anyone tell you time travel isn't impossible! Through acting I've been a 1980s bass player, 1800s murderer, 1950s gas station owner and jury member, 1930s theater owner... and now... I'm visiting 1962 Baltimore. It's been a fun and amazing ride.

Q: How do you feel about being part of HOT's last show?

Kennie: I came in a little late to the party. I was introduced to HOT in 2006. Director Helen Freeman invited me to play a cameo role in "Thoroughly Modern Millie." That appearance ended an on-stage "retirement" that had lasted for two decades. Thanks to Helen I was re-energized and decided to start acting again. Some of my favorite moments have taken place in HOT shows. "All Shook Up," "The Wedding Singer," "Legally Blonde" and now "Hairspray" have just been tremendously fun to do. But even more than the on-stage stuff, I treasure the relationships I've forged because of HOT. I have met some people who I now count as my closest friends, who mean the world to me. That wouldn't have happened without Helen, Steve Freeman, Kerri, Patti Shaver, Mark Smith, Angie Jolicoeur and many, many others. I live in the Charleston area, so it is a big commitment for me to do a Huntington show. But for all of the time and effort it takes, I have been repaid tenfold. I wouldn't trade my HOT experiences for the world, and am just so profoundly grateful to have been allowed to be a small part of it. I'm sad it's coming to a close, but I understand why. Staging a HOT production is a massive undertaking. Helen and Steve and all the rest should be commended for doing it at such a high level for so long. HOT will definitely be missed.

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

Kennie: Because it's fun! And you'll be entertained! What more can you ask a show to do? And, you won't have another chance. THIS IS IT! "Hairspray" features many talented people. Some are familiar to Huntington audiences, like Ryan, Levi, Aliza Wucher and Todd Green. But there are many relative newcomers who you should not miss! Evan Sullivan is from Lexington. When we were struggling to find the right person for the role he came in to save the day as teen heart throb Link Larkin. I have been very impressed with his performances and how he prepares every night. It was very easy to see from the beginning that this guy is a pro. Rhonda is a breath of fresh air who will bowl you over. Jessica and Brynna Horswell (who plays the villainous Amber) might be new to the Huntington area, but they've been tearing it up in Charleston and elsewhere for years. Both are simply amazing. Candy Howard (Amber's mom Velma) is a hoot, managing to be brassy and funny at the same time. The production features great dancing, a fantastic band and a clever script. Finally, to top it off, Levi and Christin Gerwig (Penny) give maybe the best performances of their lives. They are hilarious and sweet and unique. Every night they get the loudest roars from the audience...and both are well-deserved! 

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

Kennie: Hairspray July 21, 26, 27, 28 at Ritter Park Amphitheatre. Gates open at 6:30 p.m. The children's pre-show (Disney Extravaganza, it's very good) is at 7 p.m. The community pre-show is directly after. Hairspray starts at 8:30 p.m. Don't cheat yourself. If you have the chance, join us one final time and experience Huntington Outdoor Theatre. You won't regret it.

   Thanks, Kennie!

Actors for Children Theatre Announces 2013-14 Touring Shows

  My pal Sarah Diamond Burroway sends along this information about the upcoming season for Actors for Children Theatre (ACT):

   Actors for Children Theatre will offer two touring shows for Tri-State Area children in the coming 2013-14 season.  ACT will offer the performances at local schools, community centers, libraries and other venues which serve children and families.

   A Thousand Cranes by Kathryn Shultz Miller will run a tour of six performances for children in grades 4 through 8 this fall (late September through early November.)  ACT’s performances are  produced by special arrangement with THE DRAMATIC PUBLISHING COMPANY of Woodstock, Illinois.

   This true and poignant story tells of the life of 12-year old Sadako Saski, who was stricken with ‘radiation sickness’ (leukemia) a decade after the bombing of her city, Hiroshima, Japan. The girl begins to fold a thousand origami cranes at the urging of her friend while she is in the hospital; a task which legend says will make her wish for health come true.  The story relates well to children as well as adults, as Sadako’s wish, “This is our cry, this is our prayer, peace in the world,” helps expand understanding of our greater relationship to one another and the world.

   “We will bring a show rich in cultural education for children,” said Sarah Diamond Burroway, ACT’s director.  “Actors for Children Theatre is excited to partner with Dr. Natsuki Fukunaga Anderson of the Japanese language faculty at Marshall University.  “We hope our production will be culturally accurate and exciting for children,” Burroway said.

    For the spring 2014 tour, ACT will present a new work, adapted from a beloved children’s book. A Gift-Bear for the King by Carl Memling and adapted by Burroway will be presented for preschool through grade 3 audiences.  A Gift-Bear for the King is produced by special arrangement with Dutton Children’s Books, a division of Penguin Group (USA) LLC.

   A Gift-Bear for the King is a book about a poor, little bear who gives of his talents as a way of celebrating the King’s birthday. As he travels to the castle, the gift-bear stops to help others and finds the riches are in what we share of ourselves.

   “Gift-Bear” is a story that will give children a fun way to learn and understand that it’s not about what we have, but rather, what we are and the talents we possess that make us rich,” Burroway explained. “It’s a fun story that I am excited for ACT to share with kids in the spring,” she said.

   Actors for Children Theatre is a program of Rivertown Performing Arts League, Inc.  ACT wrapped up its inaugural tour in May 2013, which resulted in an interactive performance of The Emperor’s New Clothes being shared with more than 1,200 audience members.    

   “We hope to provide teachers and others with an affordable alternative to offer live, local theatrical performances for children,” explained Burroway. “We were founded with a vision to reach arts-underserved children here in our region.”  Curriculum materials are provided to performance hosts to enhance the educational experience for children.

   ACT collaborates with the Greenup County Extension for the Fine Arts and received limited support from WSAZ Children’s Charities and Walmart Foundation, which allows the ensemble to keep performance costs affordable.

   To book a performance by Actors for Children Theatre, or for more information, contact the director at 606-922-2903 or via email at intermission_sarah@yahoo.com.  “Actors for Children Theatre –ACT” is on Facebook and on Twitter: @actors4children.

On Stage This Weekend

    Here's one good way to forget the heat: go see a local show! Here's what's on stage this weekend (and early next week):

- Hairspray - HOT presents its final show, the musical comedy about how a plucky girl and her friends broke down the color barriers and changed Baltimore. It runs every Friday, Saturday and Sunday in July at the Ritter Park Amphitheatre in Huntington. Gates open at 6 p.m., the Children’s Pre-Show begins at 7 p.m., and the main show starts at 8:30 p.m.

- The Sound of Music - Jenny Wiley Theatre presents the beloved musical July 19.

- Church Basement Ladies - Jenny Wiley Theatre presents the play July 19.

- Oklahoma! - Jenny Wiley Theatre presents the classic Rogers and Hammerstein musical July 18 and 20, 

- Seussical the Musical - Jenny Wiley Theatre presents the musical comedy July 22 and 23. 

- The Aracoma Story - The local legend will be presented at Chief Logan from July 23  to Aug. 4.

- Alice in Wonderland - Jax Theatre presents a new spin on a classic tale with original lyrics and dialogue by director Jordan Nickles and music provided by Midnight Syndicate. The show will be presented July 19 and 20.

   So get out there and have fun!

On Stage in August: "Chicago"

    There's a terrific show on tap in Charleston in August - the long-running Broadway hit Chicago! 

    Here's all the info: 

   The Charleston Light Opera Guild presents Chicago at the Charleston Civic Center Little Theatre on Aug. 2, 3, 9 and 10 at 7:30 p.m. and two matinees Aug. 4 and 11 at 3 p.m. 

   All seats are reserved at $20. The box office opens at the Civic Center Little Theatre on July 29. Advance tickets are available by e-mail to charlestonlightoperaguild@gmail.com.

   Toni Pilato and Katlin Kouns will star as Velma Kelly and Roxie Hart.

   Michael Gore will play the role of Billy Flynn, Kristen Pennington is Matron "Mama" Morton, Tim Whitener is Amos Hart, T.R. Brightwell is Mary Sunshine, Stephen Hayward is Fred Casely. The merry murderesses include Dayja Legg as Liz, Lauren Meyer as Annie, Megan Sydnor as June, Allison Whitener as Hunyak, Leslie Raab as Mona and Beth Fellure as Go-to-Hell Kitty.

   The ensemble of characters and dancers includes Bob McCarty, Steve Brannon, Haley Burgess, Bryan Chin, Trey Harris, Kiara Moore, Jessica Northup, Angela Price, Frannie Slotnick, Nick Staples and Kevin Swafford.

   Nina Denton Pasinetti is the director/choreographer; Bobby Hodges, Jr. is musical director and Mark Parsons is accompanist.

Audition Workshop at ARTS

   Auditioning for a show can be intimidating, so here's a great way to get ready for the next opportunity.

   ARTS is offering a special Audition Workshop on July 27 at 1 p.m. at the Renaissance Theatre Ballroom - it will be presented free of charge by the directorial staff of ARTS' Resident Company and Shenandoah.

   The focus will be on teaching a song and a dance, and offering tips on how to do a "cold read." The material used will be cuts from ARTS fall musical Shenandoah. 

   Whether you plan on auditioning for the show or not, the workshop will help you gain skill and confidence for the next time you audition. Even if you are just curious about what an audition process is like, this workshop is for you. Everyone, every age is welcome to attend! 

   BONUS: For those interested in being part of the ARTS Resident Company, the directors will spend time after the workshop to explain, the audition process and what it means to be a company member.

   More info is available on the ARTS Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/events/572693319440583/

Interview #1: the Cast of "Hairspray"

• 

  
     As Hairspray continues its second (of four) weekends rocking the Ritter Park Amphitheatre, let's hear from some of the cast members!
  
     Up first is my pal Stephen Vance, who plays one of "The Nicest Kids in Town."
  
  Q: Hairspray is a hit Broadway musical and movie -  tell us the basic story. 
  
  Stephen: The show is about a big girl with big dreams. She wants to be on the local "Bandstand" type show and along the way tries to get the guy and tries to fix social injustice. It's a funny show with great heart and great music.
  
  

  Q: Tell us about the character you play.

  Stephen: I play Ronnie, one of the "Nicest Kids in Town" from the Corny Collins Show. We get our big break to take our local show to the big time and we get to be a part of the action the whole show.

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

  Stephen: My favorite parts of the show are any time we are at the Corny Collins Show. The energy and songs of these scenes capture the excitement of this show.

  Q: What's your background in theatre?

  Stephen: I've worked in some capacity with nearly every group in Huntington, stage, tech, and directing. I'm currently a director with the Resident Company of Arts Resources for the Tri-State.

  Q: How do you feel about being part of HOT's last show?

  Stephen: For me, HOT is where it all started. The first show I ever saw was HOT's Guys & Dolls. The first show I ever teched was HOT's Beauty & the Beast. The first show I was ever in was HOT's Thorougly Modern Millie. I owe so much to Helen, Patty, Patti, and Mark. I would not have missed this show. My original intention was to assistant direct for the summer, but I couldn't be happier to be a part of the cast. There is a different energy here that you can't get any where else. When you battle the weather for four weeks and then you get a full house that is completely with you, there is a sense of pride and satisfaction second to none. And you get to do it with a cast that you work with for no less than 20 hours a week during rehearsals. HOT is unique and it's going to be missed.

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

  Stephen: 1) If you've seen HOT's shows in the past, you know this is special, and you'll want to be a part of it. 2) If you've never seen a HOT show, there is nothing like it and you need to before you miss your chance. 3) You need to hear Rhonda Joplin (Motormouth) sing. 4) Jessica Cooper (Tracy) is very likely the cutest human being on earth and you may fall in love with her the second you see and hear her. 5) Brynna Horswell (Amber) is one of the most versatile / talented people I've ever seen on stage and she nails this one. 6) Evan Sullivan, Candy Howard, Levi Kelley, Kennie Bass, Christin Gerwig, Barry Westmoreland, Ryan Hardiman, Aliza Wucher, Todd Green, Sarah Williams 7) The Nicest Kids 8) This Cast 9) The Wigs 10) The band is amazing.

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

  Stephen: The show is at the Ritter Park Amphitheatre, every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday in July. Gates open at 6:30 p.m. The children's pre-show is at 7 p.m. The community pre-show is directly after. Hairspray starts at 8:30 p.m..

  
  

     Thanks, Stephen!

A Little Rain Can't Stop "Hairspray!"

   The final season for Huntington Outdoor Theatre got off to a soggy start last weekend as rain canceled Saturday's performance of the musical comedy Hairspray - and it delayed Sunday's show - but the forecast is looking much better for this weekend!

   The show's been getting rave reviews, and today's Herald-Dispatch included an excellent story by my pal Dave Lavender. You can read it here - and here's an excerpt: 

   If there two things that don't go together it's raindrops and hairspray. 

   And so it's with fingers crossed and bribes made to area meteorologists for something like the sun as Huntington Outdoor Theatre heads into its second weekend of the rollicking dance-fevered musical, Hairspray at the Ritter Park Amphitheater.

   Hairspray will light up the park at 8:30 p.m. Friday through Sunday, July 12-14, July 19-21, July 26-28.

   Gates open at 6:30 p.m. for picnicking and the children's pre-show, "Disney Extravaganza!" and community pre-show begin at 7 p.m. Bring lawn chairs or blankets, cooler, etc.

   Admission is $15, $13 for both seniors (65+) and kids (5-12) while kids ages 5 and under get in for free. Groups of 20 tickets or more are $12 per ticket. 

   Advance tickets can be bought at the Big Sandy Superstore Arena box office and tickets can be bought at the gate.

   H.O.T. founder and director Helen Freeman, who announced earlier this year that this is the last season for H.O.T., which is in its 20th year, said last weekend's soggy opening weekend was only bested in misery by last year's opening weekend marred by blazing record heat then followed by the derecho wind blasts that did some Oz-like set destruction.

   "It was the worst weekend of our lives but not as bad as last year," Freeman said of last weekend when incessant rain canceled Saturday and had bookend shows Friday and Sunday with thin crowds.

First Stage Summer Camp

   Speaking of summer camps, First Stage offers the second (and final) week of its Summer Theatre Camp next week in Huntingotn - here's the info:

Huntington’s children’s theatre will offer its 2nd Annual First Stage Theatre Summer Camp for young people in July. 

The second week of camp is open to young people from 6th through 12th grades, and it will offer a workshop in developing “Wicked Auditioning Skills.”... It will cover preparing for an audition, monologues, vocal assessment, dance, and even what to wear! The week will end with a Mock Audition with critique from area Theatre Directors. The class will be offered Monday through Friday, July 15 to 19, 2013, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The cost is $120 per student.

The camps will be held at the Pea Ridge United Methodist Church at 5747 East Pea Ridge Road in Huntington, W.Va.

The director of the camp is Mary Smirl. She said, “Last year’s summer camp was a huge success, so we’re glad to once again make this opportunity available for aspiring actors.”

For more information about the camps offered, call 304-525-2557.

Based in Huntington, W.Va., the First Stage Theatre Company is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing an educational, developmental experience for young people through the performing arts.

The group's upcoming season will include "It's a Bird, It's a Plane, It's Superman," "The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe," "Dear Edwina" and another show to be announced.

Next Week: Camp 5th Avenue

My pal Eddie Harbert sends along this note about an upcoming Summer Drama Camp:

    Camp 5th Avenue's Teen Camp begins on Monday, July 15, and runs through Friday, August 2.

    The camp will be presenting the musical Fame, Jr. on August 2 and 3 at the Jean C. Stephenson Auditorium in City Hall. Camp will run for three weeks, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to noon. 

    There are a few spots left for campers. Cost for the camp is $300. Eddie Harbert and Coni Anthony are the instructors.

    For more information call 304-544-2831. Hope to see you at camp or at a performance!

"The Princess of Rome, Ohio" - A Review

   I should confess up front that I'm a fan of Jonathan Joy's plays.

   The Huntington playwright has a great knack for writing real characters in funny, true-life situations. His stories are also touching, with lots of heart, and very entertaining.

    So I was happy to catch the staging of his full-length play, The Princess of Rome, Ohio, at the Alban Arts Center in St. Albans (it's the former movie theatre on Main Street, which they've restored into a lovely theatre space).

   The play takes place on the front porch (and in the front yard) at the home of Lulu (played by Megan Mace). She's a single mother trying to raise a teenage daughter, coping with her eccentric friends and even more offbeat visitors. She does so with great humor, lots of grit and more than a few four-letter words.

   One of the visitors she has to deal with is her friend Alma (played by Lisa Gandee). She arrives broken-hearted, because the man in her life has run away and (literally) taken everything. She seeks comfort - and a place to stay - from her friend Lulu.

   The other woman in the show - and the most important character - is Lulu's daughter Hattie (played by Zoe Scarnborough). She suffers from the usual problems of a 14-year-old, and a few others besides - including her unusual parents, pesky boys and crazy residents in her neighborhood. She's the smartest character in the show, and the only one with any hope of straightening out the mess.

   Things really get tense when her father Bud (played by Barry Dailey) turns up - which is something of a surprise, since they thought he might be dead. Loud, bold, funny and larger than life, Bud isn't exactly welcome - but that doesn't mean he's going away.

   Much more subdued (but no less determined) is Jimmy (played by John Halstead, Jr.), the teenage boy next door who is courting Hattie - which is a bit of a trick, since she spends most of her time telling him to get lost.

   Related in real life (though not in the show) is Dicky (played by John Halstead, Sr.), who has a bit of a drinking problem - which would be fine, except he's also the local police officer.
   
   The last member of the cast (the ol' scene stealer) is England, played by Adam Bryan. As Lulu's new love interest, he doesn't get a lot of time on stage, but he makes the most of it.

   The cast does a terrific job portraying these real people thrown into sometimes crazy situations. The set doesn't change, but the cast makes excellent use of the space they have to work with, including some great physical comedy (Dicky was killing me with his attempts to eat breakfast while his hands were tied), clever dialogue (Bud trying to explain women to Jimmy was hilarious) and heartfelt moments (as Hattie uses an unusual method for getting everyone's undivided attention).

   It's a treat to see a clever, laugh-filled show that shines a spotlight on local characters and locations. The actors are all outstanding, crafting characters that are real, often very funny, and always fascinating.

   Kudos also to the directing team and the tech crew for a job well done!

   This weekend is your last chance to catch the show (I should mention that it does feature adult language and situations). It's presented Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m. and Sunday and 2 p.m.

   Don't miss it!

On Stage This Weekend

   On stage this weekend - four great shows to choose from:

- Hairspray - HOT presents its final show, the musical comedy about how a plucky girl and her friends broke down the color barriers and changed Baltimore. It runs every Friday, Saturday and Sunday in July at the Ritter Park Amphitheatre in Huntington. Gates open at 6 p.m., the Children’s Pre-Show begins at 7 p.m., and the main show starts at 8:30 p.m.

- The Princess of Rome, Ohio - The Alban Arts Theatre presents the play by Huntington playwright Jonathan Joy. It tells the story of three loves. Alma’s husband Chester hitches up the house and leaves. Lulu is shocked when her dead husband shows up alive and well. Hattie is 14 but has lived a lot of life for a teen. An awkward relationship is brewing with the new boy next door Jimmy. The comedy will be presented at the Alban Arts Center at 65 Olde Main in St. Albans, W.Va. on July 5 and 6 at  8 p.m. and July 7 at 2 p.m.

- The Sound of Music - Jenny Wiley Theatre presents the beloved musical July 3, 5 and 6.

- Wizard of Oz - The classic musical will be presented at Chief Logan on July 5, 6 and 7.

   So get out there and support your local theatrte!

Interview #6 with the Cast of "The Princess of Rome, Ohio"

   For the last of our interviews with the cast of The Princess of Rome, Ohio (the last shows run this weekend in St. Albans), let’s hear from Megan Mace, who plays Lulu, the Mom at the center of the struggle between her teenage daughter and her ex-but-maybe-not-completely-ex-husband.   

Q: Tell us the basic story of The Princess of Rome, Ohio.

Megan: This is a story about a family struggling to find stability amid chaos, and how they learn the importance of family.

Q: Tell us about the character you play.  

Megan: Lulu is a single mom trying to make a fresh start from a bad relationship while raising a teenage daughter and helping a struggling friend.

Q: Why did you want to be part of this show?   

Megan: I was drawn to the story and wanted to work under the direction of Tara

Q: What's the biggest challenge to this show? 

Megan: Finding the perfect expression of my character, blending a bit of my own experiences with inventing the delivery for what doesn't relate to me.

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

Megan: The show will touch everyone with the message of family, friends and the importance of relationships.

 Thanks, Megan! The show plays on July 5 and 6 at 8 p.m. and July 7 at 2 p.m. at the Alban Arts Center. Call 304-721-8896 for tickets and visit www.albanartscenter.com for more information.

Interview #5 with the Cast of "The Princess of Rome, Ohio"

   For our fifth interview with the cast of The Princess of Rome, Ohio, let’s turn the (non-existent) microphone over to Barry Dailey - he plays the part of Bud, the long-missing-and-might-have-been-dead father whose return throws the entire cast into turmoil.

Q: What’s the basic story of The Princess of Rome, Ohio?

Barry: It’s the story of a fragmented family, between towns and trying to figure out what to do with the relationships in their lives.

Q: Tell us about the character you play. 

Barry: Bud, the father of the little Princess, bad husband and general loser, a ramblin' man who just won't grow up. 

Q: Why did you want to be part of this show? 

Barry: To perform under the direction of Tara Phares-Pauley and participate with this story.

  

Q: What's the biggest challenge to this show? 

Barry: Finding the idiosyncratic elements that properly illustrate the place my character is in relative to the story at large.

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

Barry: This show speaks to real life, teaching us in an entertaining way how important our relationships are and to cherish them.

  Thanks, Barry! The show plays on July 5, 6, 7 at the Alban Arts center.  Friday and Saturdays at 8 p.m. and Sunday matinees at 2 p.m.  Call 304-721-8896 for tickets and visit www.albanartscenter.com for more information.

On Stage in July

    As the summer heats up the stage keeps busy - here are the shows you should watch for in July:

- Hairspray - HOT presents its final show, the musical comedy about how a plucky girl and her friends broke down the color barriers and changed Baltimore. It runs every Friday, Saturday and Sunday in July at the Ritter Park Amphitheatre in Huntington. Gates open at 6 p.m., the Children’s Pre-Show begins at 7 p.m., and the main show starts at 8:30 p.m.

- The Princess of Rome, Ohio - The Alban Arts Theatre presents the play by Huntington playwright Jonathan Joy. It tells the story of three loves. Alma’s husband Chester hitches up the house and leaves. Lulu is shocked when her dead husband shows up alive and well. Hattie is 14 but has lived a lot of life for a teen. An awkward relationship is brewing with the new boy next door Jimmy. The comedy will be presented at the Alban Arts Center at 65 Olde Main in St. Albans, W.Va. on July 5 and 6 at  8 p.m. and July 7 at 2 p.m.

- The Sound of Music - Jenny Wiley Theatre presents the beloved musical July 3, 5, 6, 17, 19, 24, 27 and 31.

- Church Basement Ladies - Jenny Wiley Theatre presents the play July 12, 19 and 26.

- Oklahoma! - Jenny Wiley Theatre presents the classic Rogers and Hammerstein musical July 12, 13, 14, 18, 20, 25, 26, 

- Seussical the Musical - Jenny Wiley Theatre presents the musical comedy July 22 and 23. 

- Harry Potter and The Goblet of Fandoms - A Parody - Strom Studios' LimeLight Theatre Company presents this original production with the cast and crew comprised of more than 60 of its Camp Curtain Call campers. The campers spend three weeks in intensive theatre study in preparation for a production which opens to the public at the end of the three weeks. The show will be presented July 26 and 27 at 7 p.m. and July 27 at 2 p.m. at the Capitol Theater, 123 Summers Street in Charleston.

- Wizard of Oz - The classic musical will be presented at Chief Logan on July 1 - 7.

- The Aracoma Story - The local legend will be presented at Chief Logan from July 23  to Aug. 4.

- Alice in Wonderland - Jax Theatre presents a new spin on a classic tale with original lyrics and dialogue by director Jordan Nickles and music provided by Midnight Syndicate. The show will be presented July 19, 20, 26 and 27.

   So get out there and support your community theatre!

Interview #4 with the Cast of "The Princess of Rome, Ohio"

   For our fourth interview with the cast of the play The Princess of Rome, Ohio, let’s hear from Adam Bryan, who plays the outsider paying a visit to Rome.

Q: Tell us the story behind The Princess of Rome, Ohio.

  

Adam: Well from my character's (England) perspective it is a show about finding love, but the show on a whole is about how everyone needs love. Love however, has some really screwed up ways of showing itself. In short, it's a show about love found, love lost, and found again all on the front porch.

Q: Tell us about the character you play.

Adam: I play England the character Alma meets online. I show up towards the end to sweep Alma off her feet and prove to everyone that she isn't making me up.

Q: Why did you want to be part of this show?   

Adam: I got brought in very late in the process because of an loss of the previous actor to another show.   However, it was a show that I wanted to be a part of in the beginning, but knew I wouldn't have the time during the first part of the rehearsal process to be fair to the other actors. So amazingly I still got to be part of the show anyway and it was in perfect timing for me to have to time to give it. I really wanted to be part of the show form the start because I liked the script a lot. I think Jon Joy wrote real and believable characters from the first page and then puts them in some really funny situations. The characters are just fun to play, and I hope watch  It's really amazing though when an author can take some really very serious and heavy issues and make the audience laugh through the pain.  

Q: What's the biggest challenge to this show?

Adam: Keeping in character when some truly ridiculous things are going on around you.

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

Adam: It's really funny to start with but it's not a show that is just about the laugh, there is also a very real tragedy going on underneath all the laughs.

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

Adam: The show plays on June 30 and July 5, 6, 7 at the Alban Arts center. Friday and Saturdays at 8 p.m. and Sunday matinees at 2 p.m. Call 304-721-8896 for tickets and visit www.albanartscenter.com for more information.

   Thanks, Adam!

Interview #3 with the Cast of "The Princess of Rome, Ohio"

   I was lucky enough to catch the first performance of The Princess of Rome, Ohio, Friday night (along with my lovely wife), and we had a great time - it's a funny, clever and all too real snapshot of certain residents of our area. (A full review is in the works.) 

    For our third interview with the cast of the play, let’s hear from the title character, played by Zoe Scarborough (she's terrific in this part, by the way).

   She plays the youngest (and perhaps the smartest) character in the comedy. Here are her comments:

Q: Tell us about the character you play.  

Zoe: My character is Hattie - a 14-year-old girl who dreams of moving onto someplace bigger, leaving her broken home and family behind. She's used to taking care of herself for the majority of her life, and has the most common sense out of all of the adults in the play. 

Q: Why did you want to be part of this show?

Zoe: I wanted to be a part of this show because of the great challenges that playing this character may hold. 

Q: What's the biggest challenge to this show?

Zoe: The biggest challenge to this show would have to be showing my vulnerability through it, and the fact that Hattie is literally the exact opposite of who I am in real life. 

   Thanks, Zoe! The show plays on June 29, 30 and July 5, 6, 7 at the Alban Arts Center.  Friday and Saturdays at 8:00 p.m. and Sunday Matinees at 2 p.m.  Call 304-721-8896 for tickets and visit www.albanartscenter.com for more information.

Interview #2 - the Director of "The Princess of Rome, Ohio"

   Here's the second in our interviews with the cast and crew of the play The Princess of Rome, Ohio, which opens tonight at the Alban Arts and Conference Center in St. Albans. The play was written by Huntington's own Jonathan Joy.

   This time around, let's hear from the director, Tara Pauley:

Q: Why did you want to direct The Princess of Rome, Ohio? 

Tara: I actually graduated from Marshall's theater program with Jon Joy. A few years ago I also had the privilege of performing a monologue he submitted to WV Words and Music. I've always known Jon to have a very natural flow in his acting style and was not surprised to find his writing to follow in the same style. I had seen this play as a work in progress at the Clay Center a few years back. Even then you could set these wonderful full characters. This is a show that, although it had humor, it takes you thru the very real ups and downs of the lives of these people. They are people and don't fall into the trap of turning into caricatures. It's a show that offers actors a chance to really grow. As a director I love watching the process of actors finding the meat of the character and filling it in and when needed guiding them on that journey.

Q: Tell us about the story.

Tara: The short synopsis is the story is about various dysfunctional relationships and a girl who tries (often without the best planning) to try to get attention she had been lacking for so long and to get everyone to actually attempt to communicate with each other.

Q: What's the biggest challenge to this show?

Tara: The biggest challenges I faced - having to recast two actors after rehearsal had already began. That and I have a good many actors that are new to the stage or that I hadn't worked with before. So sometimes I needed to stop and remind myself certain basics needed to be taught and sometimes I had to experiment until I found how to find the best way to help an actor to find parts of a character. To help the actor find the style that connected best for them.

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

Tara: It needs to be noted that their is language and adult content in the show. Of course that is part of what makes these characters so real. I would suggest that people come se the show because it's about realisticly developed people. It's a great example of how to tell a story by fully developing it and not relying on special effects or wowing people with sets and costumes. And it's a story that anyone should be able to recognize from some part of their life (personally, family, neighbors).

Q: When and where will the show be presented?

Tara: Performances are June 28, 29 at 8 p.m., June 30 at 2 p.m., July 5,6 at 8 p.m. and July 7 at 2 p.m. at The Alban Arts and Conference Center in St Albans. They have both a website and Facebook page.

    Thanks, Tara!

On Stage This Weekend!

   You have several great shows to choose from this weekend - here's the list (with thanks for the corrections by Ryan Hardiman):

- The Princess of Rome, Ohio - The Alban Arts Theatre presents the play by Huntington playwright Jonathan Joy. It tells the story of three loves. Alma’s husband Chester hitches up the house and leaves. Lulu is shocked when her dead husband shows up alive and well. Hattie is 14 but has lived a lot of life for a teen. An awkward relationship is brewing with the new boy next door Jimmy. The comedy will be presented at the Alban Arts Center at 65 Olde Main in St. Albans, W.Va. on June 28, 29 and July 5 and 6 at  8 p.m. and June 30 and July 7 at 2 p.m.

- The Sound of Music - Jenny Wiley Theatre presents the beloved musical  June 28, 29 and 30 at 8:15 p.m.

- Location!Location!Location! The Gallery Play - The Charleston Stage Company presents two 2012 winning site-specific ten-minute plays Saturday, June 22 at 11 a.m., noon, 2 p.m. and 3 p.m. at the Good News Mountaineer Garage, 1724 Bigley Avenue in Charleston. Admission is free!

- Sing Down the Moon: Appalachia Wonder Tales - The Kanawha Players present the play June 28-29 at 7 p.m. and June 30 at 2 p.m. at the KP Theater, 309 Beauregard Street in Charleston.

- Captain Louie, Jr. - 5th Avenue Theatre Company's Camp 5th Avenue (Kids Drama Camp) presents the musical June 28-29 at 7 p.m. at the JCS Auditorium at Huntington City Hall, 800 5th Avenue.

- Holly Grove - Contemporary Youth Arts Company (CYAC) presents an original musical by Dan Kehde and Mark Scarpelli June 28 and 29 at 8 p.m. at the WVSU Capitol Canter Theatre, 123 Summers Street in Charleston.

    So get out there and support your community theatre!

Interviews with the Cast of "The Princess of Rome, Ohio"

   Taking the stage this weekend at the Alban Center in St. Albans is The Princess of Rome, Ohio, a play created by local playwright Jonathan Joy.

   To learn more about the show and the actors involved, we have a series of interviews lined up with the cast.

   Let's start with Lisa Gandee, who plays the part of Alma. Here are her comments:

Q. Tell us the story behind The Princess of Rome, Ohio. 

Lisa: It's a story about a dysfunctional family and their small town friends. Any more info than that would give away too much!

Q. Tell us about the character you play. 

Lisa: I play Alma, Lulu's best friend. She's a nervous, fidgety woman whose future seems quite uncertain when the play opens. 

Q. Why did you want to be part of this show?

Lisa: When I read the script, I knew I wanted to be a part of this show! It has great characters, and the play itself is hilarious!

Q: What's the biggest challenge to this show?

Lisa: I had an accident at work a few weeks ago, which required me to undergo surgery. I lost about a weeks worth of rehearsal due to that. I think for me, personally that has been the biggest challenge. 

Q. Why would you recommend this show to our reader?

Lisa: If you want to see something that is going to make you laugh, this is the show for you. Each character has their own quirky way of dealing with life. Our cast has become a family and we gel together the way a cast should. 

   Thanks, Lisa! The performances will be June 28, 29, July 5 and 6 at 8 p.m. and June 30 and July 7 at 2 p.m. at The Alban Arts and Conference Center in St Albans.