Merry Christmas!

   Hope you're having a great holiday season!

   Here's one of my favorite holiday videos to put you in the spirit - Merry Christmas, gentle readers!

A Show for the Holidays : "A Christmas Story: the Musical"

   Most theatre companies avoid the holidays.

   There are a couple of reasons - they worry that people will be too busy to find time to attend a show (though it certainly doesn't hurt the movie business), and it can be difficult to get the cast and crew to work during a holiday (or give up their holiday).

   Give the Charleston Light Opera Guild credit - they're tackling the year's biggest holiday head-on with their production of A Christmas Story - the Musical!

   The Jean Shepherd story of a boy named Ralphie and his dream of getting a Red Ryder BB-Gun for Christmas has become a holiday classic - and CLOG decided to offer the show on the weekends before and after Christmas!

   Last weekend's shows were a big success, and you have two more chances to see it right after Christmas - it runs on Saturday, Dec. 26 at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday,  Dec. 27 at 2 p.m. It will be presented at the Norman L. Fagan State Theater at the West Virginia Culture Center at 1900 Kanawha Boulevard East in Charleston. Tickets are $20 each.

   Kudos to the cast and crew for tackling the show right in the heart of the holiday it celebrates!

   The show is the only one running next weekend, and it's highly recommended - don't miss it!

Auditions for Paramount's "Peter Pan"

   The Paramount Players have announced their first auditions for 2016 - it's for the high-flying musical Peter Pan!

   Here's the info:   

-----------------

   Paramount Players productions are open to all community members. Audition dates:

   Peter Pan – Jan. 4, 2016  – *Monday, Jan 4 for Ages 8 – 13 only at 4 p.m. or 6:30 p.m. 

   Tuesday, Jan 5th for Ages 8 – 13 at 4 p.m. - 13 to Adult at 6 p.m.

   Those under 13 should pick up a copy of “I’m Flying” at the Paramount Arts Center (PAC). 

   Ages 13 – Adult should prepare a song from Peter Pan. Music for “I’m Flying” is now available for pick up at the PAC box office. Accompaniment music and sample vocals can be found on the Paramount Players Facebook page.

   For more information call 606.324.3175, ext. 311 or email melanie@paramountartscenter.com.

On Stage This Weekend - Two Holiday Shows

   I have good news and bad news - the good news is, there were three great holiday shows scheduled for this weekend.

   The bad news is, one had to be cancelled - here's the schedule:

- It's a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Drama - The Alban Arts Center presents the live reading at the Alban Arts and Conference Center at 65 Olde Main Street in St. Albans on Dec. 18 and 19 at 8 p.m. and Dec. 20 at 2 p.m. - tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for children and senior citizens.

- A Christmas Story: The Musical - The Charleston Light Opera Guild (CLOG) presents the local premiere of the musical version of Jean Shepherd’s classic story. It will be presented at the Norman L. Fagan State Theater at the West Virginia Culture Center at 1900 Kanawha Boulevard East in Charleston on Dec. 18, 19 and 26 at 7:30 p.m., and Dec. 19, 20 and 27 at 2 p.m. - tickets are $20.

   The one that had to be cancelled was A Christmas Carol... More or Less by the Kanawha Players.

   Still, two great shows are there to get you in the holiday spirit - get out there and check 'em out!

Auditions Coming Up for First Stage's "Pinocchio"

   First Stage Theatre Company will hold auditions for the play Without Strings (based on Carlo Collodi's The Adventures of Pinocchio written by Patrick Rainville Dorn) on Sunday, Jan. 10, 2016, from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. at the Pea Ridge United Methodist Church at 5747 East Pea Ridge Road in Huntington, W.Va.


   The play follows the adventures of a marionette named Pinocchio who is magically brought to life, but who must overcome obstacles and survive an encounter with a monster whale to prove he’s worthy of becoming a real boy.

   Auditions are open to students from 1st Grade through High School seniors. Participants can arrive and sign up at any time between 2 and 5. There is no charge to audition or to take part in a First Stage production, and no theatre experience is required. Auditioners will be given a page of script to review, and they’ll read a few lines from the page out loud.


   The show will be presented March 3, 4, 5 and 6, 2016, at the auditorium at Huntington Middle School.


   The directing team is: Director Zach Davis and Producer Debbie Jackson.


   Based in Huntington, W.Va., the First Stage Theatre Company is a 501(C)3 non-profit organization dedicated to providing an educational, developmental experience for young people through the performing arts.

New Works Festival Winners

   ARTS wrapped up its first New Works Festival this weekend, and sent along this announcement listing the winners:

   The first ARTS New Works Festival & Film Competition are over, and what an incredible two weeks it has been! We had over 28 plays performed in four days AND had our first 72-Hour Film Contest, complete with screenings and an award ceremony! 

   Quite a few of the writers joined us over the two weekends, including our visiting professional, Mickey Fisher (creator of EXTANT on CBS - if you couldn't make it out to see his script read or sit in on his talkback and discussions, you really missed an incredible opportunity). We were so lucky to be able to have someone who is actively in our business of creating art in Hollywood share his craft, his stories and his tips on filmmaking, playwriting, screenwriting and more - thank you, Mickey!

    Other writers included Jon Joy, Mike Murdock, Richard Cavendish, Sarah Diamond Burroway, Rosa Storey, Philip Kaplan and more! 

   Here are our Festival winners, as chosen by anonymous audience vote:

Best Short Play: "KEYS" by ROSA STOREY
Best One-Act Play: "STEPS" by LEN TRENT
Best Full Length Play: "MEAT" by DAN SHEA

   Each year ARTS will give at least one Director's Choice Award, voted on by the ARTS Festival Staff, as well. This year's winner: Director's Choice Award: "THE MARGINAL WAY" by MICKEY FISHER

   Film Contest Winners, as judged by Mickey Fisher and the ARTS Festival Staff:

1st Place: "PIZZA MONTHLY QUARTERLY" directed by DAVID SMITH
2nd Place: "IN SIN AND ERROR PINING" directed by IAN NOLTE
3rd Place: "THE GLACS" directed by ANDREW BROWN

   Congratulations again to our winners, and thanks to all who participated in the festival, whether you were in the audience, a director, a reader or a writer, we hope you enjoyed the first of what we hope are many more New Works Festivals to come!

   What an amazing way to finish the 2015 season. We can't wait for 2016! We have a knock-out season of shows and even more exciting surprises ahead!

   BE A PART OF IT!

Holiday Concerts Coming Up

   Here are a couple of holiday concerts you'll want to catch!

   The Huntington High Orchestra will present their annual Christmas Concert on Sunday, Dec. 20, 2015, at 7 p.m. in that school's auditorium.  The orchestra is made up of string students and will perform music for the season. The concert is free and open to the public. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. For more information contact Ron Caviani at rcaviani@k12.wv.us or 304-526-6462.

 

    The Tri-State Youth Orchestra will perform their annual Christmas Concert Saturday, Dec. 19, 2015, at 7 p.m. at New Baptist Church. The orchestra is made up of students from West Virginia, Kentucky and Ohio. Admission is $5, students 12 and under free. The orchestra is a non-profit organization so all donations are appreciated.  Doors open at 6:30.  For more information contact Ron Caviani at tsyo@aol.com.

On Stage This Weekend

   You have lots of shows to catch this weekend, including a flock of new works, a radio drama, a holiday classic and a beloved classic.

   Here's the rundown:

- New Works Festival - Arts Resources for the Tri-state (ARTS) will present a series of readings of new plays at the Renaissance Ballroom at 900 8th Street in Huntington on Dec. 11 and 12. (** Full schedule posted below. **)

- Babes in Toyland -  The Children's Theatre of Charleston presents the classic musical on Dec. 11 and 12 at 7 p.m. and Dec. 12 and 13 at 2 p.m. at the Civic Center Little Theater in Charleston. Tickets are $12 for adults and $10 for children. The show will also host a toy drive - bring a new unwrapped toy to donate.

- It's a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Drama - The Alban Arts Center presents the live reading at the Alban Arts and Conference Center at 65 Olde Main Street in St. Albans on Dec. 11 and 12 at 8 p.m. and Dec. 13 at 2 p.m. - tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for children and senior citizens.

- The Glass Menagerie - Portsmouth Little Theatre at 1117 Lawson Street in Portsmouth presents the play by Tennessee Williams on Dec. 11 and 12 at 7:30 p.m. - tickets are $12 for adults and $10 for senior citizens and students.

--------------

** New Works Festival Schedule **

Friday, December 11, 2015 - 7:00 p.m.
Starting a Family by Tristan Reynolds
Director - Michael Naglee
Cast: Eric Wilson, Andrew Surber, Todd Green, Rachel Sanford, Joanna Berner, Mary Olson

Following the Play - Talkback with the audience, cast, director, and author.

----------------

Friday, December 11, 2015 - 8:00 p.m. 

Wicked Life of Patience Boston by Bryan Stubbles
Director - Rachel Sanford
Cast: Jenn Naglee, Jill Cochran, Greg Morris, Justin Vaughn, Rick Walker, Joanna Murdock, John Barton

Following the Play - Talkback with the audience, cast, director, and author.

----------------

Friday, December 11, 2015 - 9:00 p.m.
Meat by Dan Shea
Director - Mike Murdock

Following the Play - Talkback with the audience, cast, director, and author.

----------------

Saturday, December 12, 2015 - Noon
Steps by Len Trent
Director - Jonathan Maynard
Cast: Joanna Murdock, Michael Naglee, Tish Maynard, Jonathan Maynard

Cut the Cord by Annie Pulsipher
Director - Cyndi Fuller
Cast: Andrew Surber, Anna Baker, Robert Hutchens, Len Trent

Memento Mori by Tish Maynard
Director - Jonathan Maynard
Cast: Nora Ankrom, Jonathan Maynard, Tish Maynard, Rick Walker

Following the Play - Talkback with the audience, cast, director, and author.

----------------

Saturday, December 12, 2015 - 2:00 p.m.
Pieces by Len Trent
Director - Todd Green
Cast: Mary Olson, Linda Reynolds

Ninety Degrees of Separation by David Guaspari
Director - Simon Woods
Cast: Jenn Naglee, Justin Vaughn, Anna Baker, Dylan Clark

The Authoress by Seth Freeman
Director - Sheila Meade
Cast: Simon Woods, Anna Baker, Jenn Naglee, Linda Reynolds

Deer Crossing by Roy Proctor
Director - Simon Woods
Cast: Jenn Naglee, Justin Vaughn, Anna Baker, Dylan Clark

Botherum by Richard Cavendish
Director - Sheila Meade
Cast: Len Trent, Robert Hutchens

Following the Play - Talkback with the audience, cast, director, and author.

----------------

Saturday, December 12, 2015 - 4:00 p.m.
Night Music of the River by Richard Cavendish
Director - Michael Sullivan

Following the Play - Talkback with the audience, cast, director, and author.

----------------

Saturday, December 12, 2015 - 7:00 p.m. 
Coffee/Reception with Mickey Fisher

8:00 p.m. - The Marginal Way by Mickey Fisher
Director - Mike Murdock

Following the Play - Talkback with the audience, cast, director, and author.

On Stage - "Nightmare Before Christmas"

    The Marshall Artists Series has an interesting performance taking the stage for two shows on Saturday, Dec. 12 - it's the movie The Nightmare Before Christmas, and the holiday classic will be accompanied live                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                             by the Huntington Symphony Orchestra.

   It'll be presented at the Keith-Albee Performing Arts Center at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.

   Don't miss it!

More "New Works" on the Way

   I've heard rave reviews about the first weekend of the ARTS New Works Festival (sadly, I was out of town and missed it) - but we all have another chance, as a second weekend of play readings continues next weekend.

   My pal Dave Lavender wrote a story about the festival for the Herald-Dispatch, which you can read right here.

   Here's an excerpt:

------------------------

   The old saying goes that laws are like sausage you don't want to see how they are made.

   Now, the star-dusted magic of creating plays, on the other hand, that's another matter.

   If you'd like to see how some of the region's best playwrights make a play baby, well, have we got the festival for you.

   Called New Works, the festival gives audiences a first listen to dramatic readings of some 29 new plays of all stripes culled from some 95 submissions from around the world.

   Taking place in the cozy Renaissance Ballroom at the Renaissance Arts Center, 900 8th St., Huntington (the old Huntington High School), New Works will shine a light on such well-known writers as Ironton native and now L.A.-based writer Mickey Fisher (creator of "Extant," the sci-fi series starring Halle Berry that ran for two seasons on CBS), other award-winning playwrights such as Jon Joy and Mike Murdock, as well as up-and-coming writers.

Christmas Concert on Dec. 8 to Benefit Toys for Tots

   The Cabell Midland High School Orchestra will present their annual Christmas Concert Dec. 8, 2015 at 7 p.m. in that school's auditorium.  

   Members of that orchestra will perform music for the season.  

   The orchestra is asking you bring a new toy (unwrapped and a value of at least $5) to the concert and drop it in the box.  

   The Cabell Midland orchestra is participating in the Toys for Tots campaign. They are in competition with Huntington High Orchestra to collect the most toys. The winner gets a cash prize sponsored by JD Byrider of Barboursville. All toys are at least $5 for all ages and has to be new in a box.  

   For more information contact Ron Caviani at rcaviani@k12.wv.us.

"New Works" Adds a Film Competition

   In addition to this weekend's New Works Festival (read more about it in this post), the folks at ARTS have added a film competition!

   Here are the details in this press release:

   ARTS Resources for the Tri-State is excited to announce, in addition to the up-coming New Works Festival, we will be having our first 72-Hour Film Competition! This event will run over the second weekend of the festival, culminating with cash prizes and screenings of the films on Sunday, December 13 at ARTS!

   Here's how it works: those interested in participating need to assemble a team (there is no number requirement for the team - go solo if you like!), and send a representative to ARTS, 900 8th Street in Huntington at noon on Thursday, December 10.

   At that time, each team will pay their $35 entry fee and the representative or team will receive a word and theme that need to be incorporated into your film (in whatever way you like). From that point on, teams will have until noon on Sunday, December 13, to write, shoot, edit and score a six-minute short film.

   Teams must deliver the film to ARTS by noon on December 13, and the film must be six minutes in length, with a 10-second cushion, including titles and credits, and be playable on a standard VLC player (.mp4, MPEG4 or finished DVDs are preferred).

   The films will be judged by filmmaker, playwright and creator of CBS' Extant, Mickey Fisher - as well as members of the ARTS New Works staff.

   At 5 p.m. on Sunday, the films will be screened for free at ARTS and cash awards for first, second and third place will be given. Winners will also receive ARTS 2016 Season Tickets and a fancy certificate!

   The cost per team is $35.

   Exact amount of cash prizes will be determined after entry fees are processed. However, each of the three prizes are guaranteed to make at least their entry fee back, as well as ARTS Season Tickets (a $75 value).

   If you or your team cannot be at ARTS at noon on Thursday, December 10, we can e-mail you your word and theme, and the entry fee can be paid when the film is turned in on Sunday, December 13. However, we cannot guarantee how quickly you will receive the email, as those that make a physical appearance and pay up front will have preference.

   For more info: www.artstristate.org and email: arts@artstristate.org.

On Stage in December

   It's a busy holiday month ahead, but community theatre will be hopping as always - here's the schedule for the month of December: 

- New Works Festival - Arts Resources for the Tri-state (ARTS) will present a series of 28 readings of new plays at the Renaissance Ballroom at 900 8th Street in Huntington on Dec. 4, 5, 11, 12 and 13. (For a full schedule, check this post.)

- Babes in Toyland -  The Children's Theatre of Charleston presents the classic musical on Dec. 11 and 12 at 7 p.m. and Dec. 12 and 13 at 2 p.m. at the Civic Center Little Theater in Charleston. Tickets are $12 for adults and $10 for children. The show will also host a toy drive - bring a new unwrapped toy to donate.

- A Christmas Carol - Ashland Community and Technical College Theatre (ACTC) present the classic play at the J.B. Sowards Theatre at 1400 College Drive in Ashland on Dec. 3, 4 and 5 at 7 p.m. and Dec. 6 at 2 p.m. - tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for students, seniors, and ACTC employees.

- Mary - Contemporary Youth Arts Company (CYAC) presents the original rock opera with music by Mark Scarpelli and lyrics by Dan Kehde at the WVSU Capitol Center Theater at 123 Summers Street in Charleston. Shows run Dec. 3, 4 and 5 at 8 p.m. - tickets are $15 for adults and $8 for students and senior citizens.

- It's a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Drama - The Alban Arts Center presents the live reading at the Alban Arts and Conference Center at 65 Olde Main Street in St. Albans on Dec. 11, 12, 18 and 19 at 8 p.m. and Dec. 13 and 20 at 2 p.m. - tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for children and senior citizens.

- A Christmas Story: The Musical - The Charleston Light Opera Guild (CLOG) presents the local premiere of the musical version of Jean Shepherd’s classic story. It will be presented at the Norman L. Fagan State Theater at the West Virginia Culture Center at 1900 Kanawha Boulevard East in Charleston on Dec. 18, 19 and 26 at 7:30 p.m., and Dec. 19, 20 and 27 at 2 p.m. - tickets are $20.

- A Christmas Carol...More or Less - Kanawha Players presents the play at the LaBelle Theater at 311 D Street in South Charleston on Dec. 18 and 19 at 7:30 p.m. and Dec. 20 at 2 p.m. - tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for students, senior citizens and children under 18.

- The Glass Menagerie - Portsmouth Little Theatre at 1117 Lawson Street in Portsmouth presents the play by Tennessee Williams on Dec. 4, 5, 11 and 12 at 7:30 p.m. - tickets are $12 for adults and $10 for senior citizens and students.

- Joytacular! - The No Pants Players present their annual Christmas show to benefit the Marine's Toys for Tots program. Admission is either a $10 ticket or you can donate a new toy. The “all ages” Improv show will be presented Dec. 5 at 7 p.m. at the Alban Arts Center on Main Street in St. Albans.

- Interactive Dinner Murder Mystery - Murder and Merriment presents murder mysteries, including: "Silent Night, Deadly Night!" on Dec. 5 at 6 p.m. at the Pipestem Spa and Event Center. Tickets are $55 per guest by reservation only, $50 with table of 8 - call 304-466-1767; and "Murder at the USO!" - a special New Year's Eve event on Dec. 31 at 7 p.m. at the Blennerhassett Hotel in Parkersburg. Tickets by reservation only - call 304-422-3131.

   So mark those calendars and support your local theatre!

On Stage This Weekend

   Even though Thanksgiving is this Thursday (hope you all have a great one!), there are actually two shows taking the stage this weekend - one a Christmas show and the other a special celebration.

   They are:

- Mary - Contemporary Youth Arts Company (CYAC) presents the rock opera about the life of the mother of Jesus. The original show features music by Mark Scarpelli and lyrics by Dan Kehde. It will be presented Nov. 27, 28 and Dec. 3, 4 and 5 at 8 p.m. and Nov. 29 at 2 p.m. at the WVSU Capitol Center Theater at 123 Summers Street in Charleston. Tickets are $15 for adults and $8 for students and senior citizens. 

- 60th Anniversary Gala Reception and Show - The Actors Guild of Parkersburg present a special revue of past shows to celebrate the group's 60th birthday! It will be staged on Nov. 27 at 6 p.m. at the Actors Guild of Parkersburg at 724 Market Street in Parkersburg. Tickets to the Friday Night Gala Reception and performance are $40, with a second performance (with no reception before) on Nov. 28 at 8 p.m. for $20. 

   So get out there and see a show this holiday weekend!

"New Works Festival" Lineup Announced

   ARTS has an interesting and ambitious series of shows that will wrap up their 2015 season - a New Works festival.

   They'll present 28 new plays in a reading / performance format - no sets, no costumes, no props - just the words and the actors. It's a great way to take in some creative new works that are being prepared for the stage.

   Here's the complete lineup of performances:

----------------

   Here is the official schedule of New Works 2015.

   The ticket prices are as follows:

1st Weekend All Sessions, December 4 & 5 - $12
Friday Evening Session beginning at 7pm, December 4th - $5
Saturday All Sessions beginning at 12pm, December 5th - $10
Saturday Evening Session Only beginning at 7pm, December 5th - $5

2nd Weekend All Sessions, December 11 & 12 - $12
Friday Evening Session beginning at 7pm, December 11th - $5
Saturday All Sessions beginning at 12pm, December 12th - $10
Saturday Evening Session Only beginning at 7pm, December 12th - $5

Both Weekends, All Sessions - $20

New Works Plays Official Schedule

----------

Friday, December 4, 2015 - 7:00 p.m.
Coffee/Reception with Jon Joy

8:00 p.m. - Pilfering Rome by Jon Joy
Director - Jonathan Maynard
Cast: Rachel Sanford, Becky McClelland, Andrew Surber, Len Trent, Robert Hutchens, Amy Carlson, John Barton
Following the Play - Talkback with the audience, cast, director, and author.

---------------

Saturday, December 5, 2015 - Noon

Heights by Isabella D'Esposito
Director - Stephen Vance
Cast: Nora Ankrom, Joanna Murdock, Mike Murdock, Jenn Naglee, Rachel Sanford, Dylan Clark, Joan McPherson, Rick Walker

MS. GALLAGER'S FIRST GRADE CLASS PRESENTS "THE WATER CYCLE" by Ron Burch
Director - Cyndi Fuller
Cast: Abigail Eplin, Greg Morris, Bil Neal, Nora Ankrom

The Conference by Philip Hall
Director - Rachel Sanford
Cast: Joan McPherson, John Barton

Sky Psych by Brad Field
Director - Todd Green
Cast: Rick Walker, Sheila Meade, Rachel Sanford

Following the Plays - Talkback with the audience, casts, directors, and authors.

--------------

Saturday, December 5, 2015 - 2:00 p.m. 

Keys by Rosa Storey
Director - Cyndi Fuller
Cast: Sheila Meade, Joanna Murdock, Jill Cochran, Greg Morris

Cut & Run by Allie Costa
Director - Andrew Surber
Cast: Nora Ankrom, Becky McClelland

Love in the Time of Cockleburs by Nancy Gall-Clayton
Director - Andrew Surber
Cast: Jonathan Maynard, Nora Ankrom, Becky McClelland, Jenn Naglee, Justin Vaughn

Alban Piece 1 by Student 1
Director - Mike Murdock
Cast: TBA

Alban Piece 2 by Student 2
Director - Mike Murdock
Cast: TBA

Keeping Traditions by Sarah Diamond Burroway
Director - Rachel Sanford
Cast: Mary Olson, Jonathan Maynard, Robert Hutchens, Becky McClelland

The Christmas Goat by Dwayne Yancey
Director - Sheila Meade
Cast: Todd Green, Nora Ankrom, Simon Woods, Becky McClelland, Cyndi Fuller

Following the Plays - Talkback with the audience, casts, directors, and authors.

---------------

Saturday, December 5, 2015 - 4:00 p.m. 

Ron and Wanda by Philip Kaplan
Director - Stephen Vance
Cast: Nic Skaggs, Amy Carlson

Following the Play - Talkback with the audience, cast, director, and author.

Saturday, December 5, 2015 - 7:00 p.m. 

The Second Annual Administration Building Takeover And Slumber Party by Ian Thal
Director - Stephen Vance
Cast: Michael Naglee, Joanna Murdock, Nora Ankrom, Dylan Clark

Following the Play - Talkback with the audience, cast, director, and author.

----------------

Saturday, December 5, 2015 - 8:00 p.m. 

Brighter Days by Mike Murdock
Director - Michael Naglee
Cast: Rick Walker, Anna Baker, Mike Murdock, Jason Eldridge, Tyler Eldridge, Simon Woods, Joanna Murdock, Stephen Vance, Linda Reynolds, Nora Ankrom, John Barton, Jonathan Maynard, Robert Hutchens, Jenn Naglee, Greg Morris

Following the Play - Talkback with the audience, cast, director, and author.

----------------

Friday, December 11, 2015 - 7:00 p.m.
Starting a Family by Tristan Reynolds
Director - Michael Naglee
Cast: Eric Wilson, Andrew Surber, Todd Green, Rachel Sanford, Joanna Berner, Mary Olson

Following the Play - Talkback with the audience, cast, director, and author.

----------------

Friday, December 11, 2015 - 8:00 p.m. 

Wicked Life of Patience Boston by Bryan Stubbles
Director - Rachel Sanford
Cast: Jenn Naglee, Jill Cochran, Greg Morris, Justin Vaughn, Rick Walker, Joanna Murdock, John Barton

Following the Play - Talkback with the audience, cast, director, and author.

----------------

Friday, December 11, 2015 - 9:00 p.m.
Meat by Dan Shea
Director - Mike Murdock
Cast: TBA

Following the Play - Talkback with the audience, cast, director, and author.

----------------

Saturday, December 12, 2015 - Noon
Steps by Len Trent
Director - Jonathan Maynard
Cast: Joanna Murdock, Michael Naglee, Tish Maynard, Jonathan Maynard

Cut the Cord by Annie Pulsipher
Director - Cyndi Fuller
Cast: Andrew Surber, Anna Baker, Robert Hutchens, Len Trent

Memento Mori by Tish Maynard
Director - Jonathan Maynard
Cast: Nora Ankrom, Jonathan Maynard, Tish Maynard, Rick Walker

Following the Play - Talkback with the audience, cast, director, and author.

----------------

Saturday, December 12, 2015 - 2:00 p.m.
Pieces by Len Trent
Director - Todd Green
Cast: Mary Olson, Linda Reynolds

Ninety Degrees of Separation by David Guaspari
Director - Simon Woods
Cast: Jenn Naglee, Justin Vaughn, Anna Baker, Dylan Clark

The Authoress by Seth Freeman
Director - Sheila Meade
Cast: Simon Woods, Anna Baker, Jenn Naglee, Linda Reynolds

Deer Crossing by Roy Proctor
Director - Simon Woods
Cast: Jenn Naglee, Justin Vaughn, Anna Baker, Dylan Clark

Botherum by Richard Cavendish
Director - Sheila Meade
Cast: Len Trent, Robert Hutchens

Following the Play - Talkback with the audience, cast, director, and author.

----------------

Saturday, December 12, 2015 - 4:00 p.m.
Night Music of the River by Richard Cavendish
Director - Michael Sullivan
Cast: TBA

Following the Play - Talkback with the audience, cast, director, and author.

----------------

Saturday, December 12, 2015 - 7:00 p.m. 
Coffee/Reception with Mickey Fisher

8:00 p.m. - The Marginal Way by Mickey Fisher
Director - Mike Murdock
Cast: TBA

Following the Play - Talkback with the audience, cast, director, and author.

HART Announces Summer Season

The Greater Huntington Park & Recreation District and the Huntington Area Regional Theater (HART) has announced its line-up for this summer’s productions at the Ritter Park Amphitheater.

The summer will open with the family classic The Wizard of Oz, which will run weekends from June 10 through June 26.

Then the Dr. Seuss-based Seussical the Musical will open on July 15 and run for three weekends through July 31.

Auditions for both plays and children’s pre-shows will be held at St. Cloud Commons Lodge on Saturday, Jan. 2 and Saturday and Sunday, Jan. 9 and 10. Cast announcements will take place on January 19. 

Anyone interested in working as stage hands, costume coordinators, or set builders are encouraged to contact Stacey Leep at: sleep@ghprd.org.

Tickets for the 2016 season of Outdoor Community Theater go on sale immediately and can be purchased on-line at www.ghprd.org, just click on the HART icon. Tickets are $15 for General Admission Adults and $12 for Seniors and Children under 12.

Ritter Park Amphitheater gates open at 7 p.m. on show nights, with pre-shows beginning at 7:30 p.m. and the feature show starting at 8:30 p.m.

For more information and ticket sales, visit: www.ghprd.org 

"A Christmas Carol" - A Review

   Like most of you who have seen lots of theatre, I've seen Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol many, many times - but I've never seen a better production than the one Marshall University is staging this weekend (in fact, the last performance is tonight at 7:30 p.m.)!

   It combines a top-notch cast with the kind of amazing stagecraft that MU has down to a science.

   The story, of course, introduces us to the classic skinflint, Ebenezer Scrooge, who faces his own past, present and future - and gets one last chance to learn the true meaning of Christmas.

   A successful production starts with the casting, and you could hardly do better than to cast Jack Cirillo in the lead. A terrific actor who revels in Scrooge's flinty attitudes, he manages to work in some moments of levity (all at Scrooge's expense) and even tenderness - all while being delightfully wicked. He's perfect in the role!

   The spirits who "haunt" Scrooge include Mary Poindexter Williams as the Ghost of Christmas Past, and Clint McElroy in the roles of both the spirit of Scrooge's dead partner, Marley, and the Ghost of Christmas Present.

   The cast is terrific, providing a steady stream of characters, relatives, foils and carolers that keep the story moving at top speed.

   But one of the unsung heroes of the show is the stage design and technical work. The stunning set is designed on a rotating stage, allowing lightning-quick scene changes. That, combined with the unique lighting, sound effects, music and fog, immerse the audience into the world of Scrooge, the Cratchits and London's street life.

    The story is a classic for good reason - I defy anyone to watch it and not feel the true spirit of Christmas touching your heart.

   The members of Marshall's Theatre Department (and director Nicole Perrone) have crafted an amazing production here - not to be missed!

 

"The Wizard of Oz" - A Review

   I have been a fan of The Wizard of Oz since seeing the movie on TV as a child. It was also the first community theatre show I was involved with, as my oldest son had a small part in MAG-CT's production back in 1995.

   So anytime I get the chance to see it on stage, I take it. That led me to last night's performance at Grace Christian School (1111 Adams Avenue in Huntington). I wasn't sure what to expect - to be honest, school performances can range from wonderful to rugged.

   I'm happy to report that this performance... is wonderful!

   The cast is loaded with talent, from Rachel Lykins as the plucky Dorothy, Isaac Perry as the high-stepping Scarecrow, Chris Harmony as the lovable Tin Man, Jacob Wood as the hilarious Cowardly Lion, Joshua Callahan as the humbug Wizard and Olivia Fosson as the luminous Glinda, and Jordan Callahan, delightfully evil as the Wicked Witch.

   The huge cast is kept hopping, as almost everyone in the cast plays numerous roles throughout (backstage must be a flurry of costume changes)!

   Oz is a deceptively big show - there are lots of characters, costumes, set changes, big songs, dance numbers, and special effects - it's a challenge for any theatre company.

   Especially considering the size of the stage, Grace has worked miracles. The set changes are fast and efficient (how they manage to squeeze so much set into that small space is impressive), and the visuals are stunning. They must have a small army of tech crew working furiously to make it happen.

   And let me just say, of all the stage productions of this show I've seen, the Wizard effect was the most impressive yet!

   The show features a terrific orchestra, wonderful musical numbers and tons of energy and emotion! The sold-out crowd lunged to its feet at the end of the performance for a well-deserved standing ovation.

   Kudos to director Angie Jolicoeur and her directing team for an impressive production, and to her tech crew for a flawless production - a herculean effort all around!

   The show is highly recommended - but if you go, get there early. Tonight's show is the final performance, and it was standing room only last night! The final performance is tonight at 7 p.m. - don't miss it!

On Stage This Week - Two Classics!

   With the holidays closing in, you have two great classic community theatre shows to c goose from this weekend - one promises to be a new holiday classic, and the other is a beloved musical.

   Here's the list: 

- A Christmas Carol - Marshall Theatre Alliance presents the play by Charles Dickens at the Joan C. Edwards Performing Arts Center at Marshall University on Nov. 18, 19, 20 and 21 at 7:30 p.m. and Nov. 21 at 2:30 p.m. Tickets are $20 for Adults, $15 for senior citizens and faculty, $7 for children 5-12, and free to full-time Marshall students with a valid ID.

- The Wizard of Oz - Grace Christian School presents the musical Nov. 20 and 21 at 7 p.m. at 1111 Adams Avenue in Huntington. Tickets are $8.

   So get out there and support your community theatre!

On Stage This Week: A Holiday Classic

   Marshall University's Department of Theatre is starting a new holiday tradition based around a fresh version of a holiday classic!

   They're presenting A Christmas Carol this week at the Joan C. Edwards Playhouse, and it promises to be an amazing show, loaded with special effects and, of course, a wonderful story by Charles Dickens.

   My pal Dave Lavender turned in a terrific story about the show, which you can read at this link. 

   Here's an excerpt:

-----------------

   Back in 2009 and 2010, professional actor Jack Cirillo took on the task of bringing Charles Dickens' classic, A Christmas Carol, to life by himself in a riveting one man show.

   These days, he is getting by with a little help from his friends.

   Still a spot on Scrooge carved right from the storybook pages, Cirillo is joined by key veteran regional actors such as Clint McElroy and Mary Williams, a couple young talents, Dean Neal and Owen Jennings, and a host of college talent as Marshall Department of Theatre kicks off the holiday season with a deliciously dark and original recipe rendering of one of the season's meatiest classics, Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol, adapted for stage by Romulus Linney.

   Directed by Nicole Perrone, A Christmas Carol, will take place at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 18 through Saturday, Nov. 21. There will also be a Saturday, Nov. 21 matinee as well at 2 p.m. All shows are at The Joan C. Edwards Playhouse on campus.

   Tickets are $20, $15 for faculty and seniors and $7 for children five to 12. The show is free to full-time Marshall students with valid ID.

   Be sure to arrive early as at 30 minutes before each show, the cast will be performing Christmas carols they've worked up with the direction of David Castleberry and Michael Rose.

   (Photo of Jack Cirillo playing Scrooge by Larry Butcher)

   Don't miss it!