Ashland Theatre Companies Honored at Theatre Festival

   Congratulations to two Ashland area companies - both the Paramount Players and Actors for Children Theatre (ACT) won numerous awards from the Kentucky Theatre Association - and they will represent the state at the Southeastern Theatre Conference Community Theatre Festival in March 2016 in Greensboro, North Carolina.

   Here's the list of local awards:

- Best Performance - Actors for Children Theatre, The Garden of Rikki Tikki Tavi
- Best Performance - Paramount Players, Rent
- Best Actress - Hannah Noel, Paramount Players
- Best Ensemble - Paramount Players
- Best Costume and Make-Up Design - Actors for Children Theatre
- Excellence in Vocal Music Direction - Mark Smith, Paramount Players

   Also, my pal Sarah Diamond Burroway has been invited to make a special presentation at the STCC about ACT's work reaching rural, arts-underserved audiences.

  Congratulations all around!

"The Lion King, Jr." Wraps Up This Weekend

   It's been a heck of a journey for the cast of Disney's The Lion King, Jr. - auditions were held in August, and for the past two months the cast has been practicing their lines, learning the songs (many in Swahili) and dances that make up this fast-paced, high energy show.

   I've tried to avoid beating the "Lion King, Jr." drum too loudly here - if you didn't know the show was running, you're just not paying attention. But Saturday and Sunday wrap up the run for this show - the first production of it in the Tri-State area - so I wanted to throw in one last push. 

   I admit prejudice (as director), but the cast has done a terrific job, along with our costume team, set builders, tech crew and directing team. In his article about it, my pal Dave Lavender mentioned the "First Stage Army" of volunteers, and that's what it took to put this show together - it was a huge undertaking, and everyone stepped up and built an entertaining show!

   I hope you get to see it - the final shows are Saturday at 7:30pm and Sunday at 2:30pm at the Renaissance Theatre at 900 8th Street in Huntington (and show up a little early - the crowds have been big)!

Interview #7 With the Cast of "Lion King, Jr."

 The First Stage Theatre production of Disney’s The Lion King, Jr. has held six performances so far, including three sold-out school shows, and three public performances!

   This weekend wraps up the premiere in the Tri-State area for this musical, as the cast prepares for the final three public performances.

   We have two more interviews to share with members of the cast - today, let’s hear from Amelia Westbrook, who plays a leopard and a wildebeest, and Kasey Thompson, who plays a bird!

Q: What is The Lion King story about?

Amelia: The Lion King is about a lion whose father is pushed off a cliff, and then the lion grows up and challenges his uncle.

Kasey: The Lion King story is about Simba growing up and turning into a king.

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

Kasey: Being in theater sounded really fun and I liked the idea of being in plays.

Amelia: I wanted to be a part of this show because I think The Lion King is a really cool movie, I like lots of the characters in it, and I wanted to meet new friends.

Q: What's your favorite song?

Amelia: My favorite song is “Hakuna Matata” because Pumbaa and Timon are two of my favorite characters.

Kasey: My favorite song from the show is “I Just Can't Wait to be King” because it's really fun, it's really exciting, and there's a lot of dancing!

Q: If a kid out there is thinking about trying out for a future show, what would you say to them?

Kasey: I would tell them good luck and to just have fun!

Q: Do you think people out there will enjoy this show?

Amelia: I think people will enjoy this show because I think lots of people have seen the movie The Lion King and probably liked it.  Most people in my family like it. The singing and dancing in the play is good and I think people will like that too."

Kasey: Yes! Because it's really really exciting, there is a lot of singing and dancing, and our costumes are beautiful and rainbow-y.

   Thanks, Amelia and Kasey!

  First Stage Theatre Company presents Disney’s The Lion King, Jr., a musical based on the Disney animated film and the Broadway show at the Renaissance Theatre at 900 8th Street in Huntington. Shows will be offered on Friday and Saturday, Nov. 13 and 14 at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, Nov. 15 at 2:30 p.m. Tickets are $12 for adults, $8 for children (12 and under) and senior citizens.

Interview #6 With the Cast of "Lion King, Jr."

   The First Stage Theatre production of Disney’s The Lion King, Jr. returns to the stage this weekend for the final three public performances.

   While we’re waiting, we have more interviews with members of the cast! Today let’s hear from two of the ensemble: Sydney Barbour, who plays the part of a Zebra, and Thomas Miller, who plays a Hyena.

Q: What is The Lion King story about?

Sydney: It's about a Lion named Simba who gets lost, finds friends, and grows up in the woods. He defeats his uncle and becomes king!

Thomas: It’s about a young prince who thinks he killed his father. Simba leaves his home and his uncle takes over the prideland.

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

Thomas: I wanted to be a part of this show because I was in Aladdin and enjoyed it a lot so I decided to try out for The Lion King.

Sydney: Because I love acting and being with First Stage

Q: What's your favorite song?

Sydney: “Shadowland.”

Thomas: I just love the song "Be Prepared."

Q: If a kid out there is thinking about trying out for a future show, what would you say to them?

Thomas: I would tell them that they should do it.  You make new friends and make life better.

Sydney: It's really fun and they would have a good time. You really learn a lot!

Q: Do you think people out there will enjoy this show?

Sydney: Yes, because there are good songs and the set is good!

Thomas: Yes, I feel like they would enjoy this show. It’s just really funny.

   Thanks, Sydney and Thomas!

  First Stage Theatre Company presents Disney’s The Lion King, Jr., a musical based on the Disney animated film and the Broadway show at the Renaissance Theatre at 900 8th Street in Huntington. Shows will be offered on Friday and Saturday, Nov. 13 and 14 at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, Nov. 15 at 2:30 p.m. Tickets are $12 for adults, $8 for children (12 and under) and senior citizens.

Interview #5 With the Cast of "The Lion King, Jr."

   The First Stage Theatre production of Disney’s The Lion King, Jr. returns to the stage this weekend for the final three public performances.

   While we’re waiting, here’s a couple of interviews with members of the cast! Today let’s hear from Emily Jarrell, who plays a bird, and Brenna Drown, who plays a zebra and a wildebeest.

Q: What is The Lion King story about?

Emily: I think The Lion King is about two lions going against each other to be ruler of the land. Friends are found along the way and they learn how to work together to make peace on their land.

Brenna: The Lion King is about overcoming the shadows of your past and trying to always live each day as your last. Hakuna matata! It means no worries!

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

Brenna: I enjoy theatre and have always wanted to be part of it. I'm a zebra! In a costume! I'm excited!

Emily: This was my first try at a show and I wanted to learn all the parts of being an actor.

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

Brenna: I like it when Young Simba and Young Nala first meet the hyenas in the Elephant Graveyard, the set looks amazing with the big bones and the elephant skeletons in the background are cool. You feel like you are part of the movie!

Emily: My favorite song is “Circle of Life” because it brings all the animals together.

Q: If a kid out there is thinking about trying out for a future show, what would you say to them?

Emily: Don't be shy and do your best! You'll make everyone proud! Yeah!

Brenna: You should do it! You will make lots of new friends and many memories. Just remember to be yourself and have fun!

Q: Do you think people out there will enjoy this show?

Brenna: Yes, because all of the cast and crew have worked really hard on this and it's come to life like I never imagined. 

Emily: Yes, because we worked hard to make it the best. Plus, it's a story that can teach us something.

   Thanks, Emily and Brenna!

  First Stage Theatre Company presents the musical based on the Disney animated film and the Broadway show at the Renaissance Theatre at 900 8th Street in Huntington. Shows will be offered on Nov. 13 and 14 at 7:30 p.m. and Nov. 15 at 2:30 p.m. Tickets are $12 for adults, $8 for children (12 and under) and senior citizens.

Interview #4 With the Cast of "Lion King, Jr."

   After a successful opening weekend, the cast of the First Stage Theatre production of Disney’s The Lion King, Jr. is taking a few days to rest - and then they’ll be back with another weekend full of shows!

   Let’s continue our interviews with members of the cast! Today let’s hear from Hannah Spurlock, who plays the part of the lioness Nala, and Luke Lovejoy, who plays the comedic hyena Ed.

Q: What is "The Lion King" story about?

Hannah: The Lion King story is about a lion cub, Simba, who faces challenges like losing his father and leaving the pridelands, and throughout the story he grows and overcomes this battles and meets remarkable friends. 

Luke: The story of The Lion King is about a son (Simba) who thinks he killed his Dad so he runs away and becomes careless. Then Nala (his young friend) comes and tells Simba what has happened at home. His evil uncle (Scar) has taken over and is destroying their home. Simba comes back and challenges his uncle and takes back the Pridelands. 

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

Luke: I wanted to be part of this production because I love theatre. It’s a great experience and I love the cast and directors.

Hannah: I wanted to be a part of this show because I grew up watching it, and loved it immensely. Then last year at the Junior Theatre Festival in Atlanta I saw different parts of it, and promised myself I would one day be in it. 

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

Hannah: My favorite song in the show is Rafiki’s  version of “He Lives in You,” it's so powerful.

Luke: I love a lot of the parts of this show, but my favorite part is “He Lines in You,” because I personally think it shows love between father and son.  

Q: If a kid out there is thinking about trying out for a show, what would you say to them?

Luke: If you want to try out for a show, DO SO! It is fun and you get to meet a lot of great people and it is a great experience.

Hannah: If a kid is thinking about auditioning for a show, I would tell them to go for it.

Q: Do you think people out there will enjoy this show?

Hannah: I think people will like the show, for the pure fact that Disney (for the most part) is magical.

Luke: I think people will love this show because it has a lot of different elements, like humor, sadness and happiness. 

   Thanks, Hannah and Luke!

  First Stage Theatre Company presents the musical based on the Disney animated film and the Broadway show at the Renaissance Theatre at 900 8th Street in Huntington. Shows will be offered on Nov. 13 and 14 at 7:30 p.m. and Nov. 15 at 2:30 p.m. Tickets are $12 for adults, $8 for children (12 and under) and senior citizens.

Media Blitz for "Disney's The Lion King, Jr!"

   The First Stage production of Disney’s The Lion King, Jr. takes the stage tonight - and it’s been getting lots of media coverage! 

   Dave Lavender wrote a terrific article - you can read it at this link!  

   The Herald-Dispatch also has a photo gallery posted right here!  (The photo above is from it, by Toril Lavender.)

   WCHS-TV reporter Kennie Bass filed a terrific story about the show here. 

   And you can catch more coverage on Friday’s WSAZ First Look at 4!

   Even better, you can catch the actual show! First Stage Theatre Company presents the musical based on the Disney animated film and the Broadway show at the Renaissance Theatre at 900 8th Street in Huntington. Shows will be offered on Nov. 6, 7, 13 and 14 at 7:30 p.m. and Nov. 8 and 15 at 2:30 p.m. Tickets are $12 for adults, $8 for children (12 and under) and senior citizens.

"Selections from The Twilight Zone" - A Review

   It's always exciting to see a local theatre company tackling an original project, and the Appalachian Arts Collective has managed a mix of "something old and something new" with its production of Selections From The Twilight Zone.
 
   The play is based, of course, on the classic TV series created and hosted by the gravel-voiced Rod Serling. That makes the show an even bigger draw for me, since I was a huge fan of that show.

   It's most famous for its twist endings, but that wasn't the show's only weapon - it also offered up thoughtful, surprising morality tales, and that's the focus here.

   The show features three "episodes," all written by Richard Matheson (one of the best writers in the show's arsenal): "Nick of Time," about a couple who find an amazing gift - or curse - for the price of a penny; "Night Call," with a series of mysterious phone calls that reveal a secret side to a bitter woman; and "A World of His Own," a surprising tale about a man who's in complete control of his life. Maybe.

   The actors do a terrific job bringing the stories - and the '60s era characters - to life. They run the range from Christopher Vincent's evocation (but not imitation) of Serling's hosting of each segment to Tyler Eldridge and Olivia Morris' newlyweds facing a moment of decision, to Susan Marrash-Minnerly's ill-tempered older woman who isn't what she seems, and Kimberlee Gibson's indignant, upper-crust wife.

   The set and costumes serve the show well, managing three different sets in the small stage space, including everything from a lunch counter to a cozy living room and an actual telephone pole!

   The series was always a terrific balance of great acting and smart, thoughtful and heartfelt writing - and this show captures that, sometimes with an edge, and often with humor.

   It's a terrific production and comes highly recommended, especially if you're a fan of the series. It's a bit of a trip to see it spring to life in front of you - from the small screen to larger than life on stage (and in 3-D)!

   Don't miss it!

 

Interview #3 With the Cast of "Lion King, Jr!"

We're just a couple of days from the premiere of Disney's The Lion King, Jr!

Let's continue our interviews with the cast - today's let's hear from two more sisters - Elyse Samssekou plays Young Nala, who is Young Simba's best friend, and her sister Nadia plays a leopard and ensemble.

Q: What is The Lion King story about?

Elyse: The Lion King story is about Simba growing up and discovering that he is the rightful king!

Nadia: It's kind of hard to explain... It's mostly about family and friendship.

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

Nadia: Because I thought it would be fun, and it really was.

Elyse: I have done many shows before, and I really love First Stage Theatre Company. Also, Lion King is one of my favorite Disney movies!

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

Elyse: My favorite song of the show is "Shadowland."

Nadia: I've got two favorite songs. My first one is "The Lioness Hunt." My second one is "Just Can't Wait to Be King."

Q: If a kid out there is thinking about trying out for a show, what would you say to them?

Elyse: Definitely do it! It is an amazing experience, and even if you don't like it, at least you can say you tried something new!

Nadia: I think they would do a good job!

Q: Do you think people out there will enjoy this show (and why)?

Nadia: Yes, because all the cast members are really good dancers and singers, and they are nice!

Elyse: They will definitely enjoy the show, because we put many hours into it, and the costumes are amazing!

Thanks, Elyse and Nadia!

   Disney's Lion King, Jr. - First Stage Theatre Company presents the musical based on the Disney animated film and the Broadway show at the Renaissance Theatre at 900 8th Street in Huntington. Shows will be offered on Nov. 6, 7, 13 and 14 at 7:30 p.m. and Nov. 8 and 15 at 2:30 p.m. Tickets are $12 for adults, $8 for children (12 and under) and senior citizens.

On Stage This Week: "Mamma Mia!"

   The beloved musical pays a visit to the Keith-Albee Theater this week as a touring production of the hit Broadway musical Mamma Mia takes the stage on Wednesday!

   Of course, it tells the story of a daughter about to be married - but she's not sure which of three different men is her biological father - so she invites them all to the wedding. Hilarity - and lots of great songs by Abba - ensue!

   It's a fun show - don't miss it!

 

    FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT MARSHALLARTISTSSERIES.ORG

BOX OFFICE 304.696.6656 EMAIL artistsseries@marshall.edu TICKETS http://www.ticketmaster.com/event/16004EF5BC55431F

Interview #2 With the Cast of "The Lion King, Jr."

   Continuing our interviews with the cast of the First Stage Theatre's upcoming musical, Disney's The Lion King, Jr. - let's hear from the Eastone sisters!

   One (Sophie) plays the part of Zazu, the Lion King's Major Domo (who also happens to be a bird), and another (Natalie) who plays three different roles - a hyena, a wildebeest, and the grassland.

Q: What is "The Lion King" story about?

Sophie:  The Lion King is about a young lion growing up. He experienced sadness, happiness and goes on a big adventure!

Natalie: The Lion King is about letting go of the past and moving on to the future.

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

Natalie:  I wanted to be part of the show because the Lion King is a very exciting story! 

Sophie: I wanted to be part of the show because I loved the movie and wanted to be part of the musical!

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

Sophie: My favorite song is "Grasslands Chant." It's a fun, uplifting song.

Natalie: My favorite song is "He Lives in You" because it's really beautiful.

Q: If a kid out there is thinking about trying out for a show, what would you say to them?

Natalie: Go for it!

Sophie: Don't be nervous! Do your best - but "be prepared!"  :)

Q: Do you think people out there will enjoy this show (and why)?

Sophie: Yes - I think people will like it because they know the movie and they'll have fun seeing characters they've seen before. 

Natalie: Yes! Absolutely! It's not too long, and it's very eventful! 

   Thanks, Sophie and Natalie!

   Disney's Lion King, Jr. - First Stage Theatre Company presents the musical based on the Disney animated film and the Broadway show at the Renaissance Theatre at 900 8th Street in Huntington. Shows will be offered on Nov. 6, 7, 13 and 14 at 7:30 p.m. and Nov. 8 and 15 at 2:30 p.m. Tickets are $12 for adults, $8 for children (12 and under) and senior citizens.

Interview #1 with the Cast of "Lion King, Jr."

   Taking the stage this weekend is the first-ever production in the Tri-State of Disney's The Lion King, Jr.

   It's being presented by First Stage Theatre at the Renaissance Theatre in Huntington.

   The cast runs a wide range in ages - from Elementary School students to High School seniors!

   We have some interviews with the cast of the show we'll be sharing in the days ahead, starting with two ensemble performers. Let's hear from Emma Maynard and Gracie Napier:

Q: What character(s) do you play?

Emma: I play the part of a leopard and a wildebeest as part of the ensemble.

Gracie: I play a hyena and a gazelle.

Q: What is The Lion King story about?

Gracie: It's about growing up in Africa, having self-respect and respect for your parents.

Emma: The Lion King tells the story of how Scar tried to take over the Pridelands, but Simba comes back to take his place in the circle of life.

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

Emma: My favorite song is “Be Prepared!” Scar does a great job singing it on stage and it gets really exciting.

Gracie: “Hakuna Matata” - and I love watching Timon and Pumba - they crack me up!

Q: If a kid out there is thinking about trying out for a show, what would you say to them?

Gracie: Go for it because I made it on my first try. It’s only impossible if you think it is.

Emma: My advice for a kid thinking about auditioning for a show would be, just give it your all and leave it all on the stage!

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

Emma: I wanted to be a part of this show, because I've always loved The Lion King and I was excited to try out for my first show with First Stage Theatre.

Gracie: I wanted to have fun and make new friends!

Q: Do you think people out there will enjoy this show?

Emma: I know everyone in the audience will enjoy The Lion King, Jr., because our whole cast and crew has worked very hard and we really get into character up on stage! We'll have everyone in the audience wanting to sing along with us as soon as the music starts!

Gracie: Yes! I think it offers a chance for kids and parents to laugh and have a good time.

   Thanks, Emma and Gracie!

   Disney's Lion King, Jr. will be presented by the First Stage Theatre Company. The musical is based on the Disney animated film and the Broadway show. It will be presented at the Renaissance Theatre at 900 8th Street in Huntington. Shows will be offered on Fridays and Saturdays, Nov. 6, 7, 13 and 14 at 7:30 p.m. and Sundays, Nov. 8 and 15 at 2:30 p.m. Tickets are $12 for adults, $8 for children (12 and under) and senior citizens.

On Stage in November

   Several great shows hitting the stage in November, including some classic shows - and some new ones:

- Disney's Lion King, Jr. - First Stage Theatre Company presents the musical based on the Disney animated film and the Broadway show at the Renaissance Theatre at 900 8th Street in Huntington. Shows will be offered on Nov. 6, 7, 13 and 14 at 7:30 p.m. and Nov. 8 and 15 at 2:30 p.m. Tickets are $12 for adults, $8 for children (12 and under) and senior citizens.

- 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.

- Selections from The Twilight Zone - AAC presents this adaptation of stories from the classic TV show on Nov. 6 and 7 at 7 p.m., and Nov. 8 at 2 p.m. at The Alban Arts and Conference Center at 65 Olde Main Street in St. Albans, W.Va. Tickets are $15 each. Group rate available of $10 per ticket for groups of 10 or more. 

- Dr. Jekyll & Mr. Hyde - Kanawha Players will present the play on Nov. 6 and 7 at 7:30 p.m. at the LaBelle Theater at 311 D Street in Charleston. Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for students, senior citizens and children under 18.

- Night of 100 Tonys: Losers Edition - Curtains Up Players present the musical revue and dinner cabaret Nov. 6 and 7 at 7 p.m. and Nov. 8 at 2 p.m. at St. Paul Lutheran Church at 721 12th Avenue in Huntington. Tickets are $20, dinner included. $5 off admission with a donation of three or more canned food items.

- The Garden of Rikki Tikki Tavi - Actors for Children's Theatre presents the play on Nov. 7 at 2 p.m. at the Boyd County Public Library at 1740 Central Avenue in Ashland. Admission is free!

- Macbeth - The Rustic Mechanicals present the Shakespeare play in the Skeen Blackbox Theatre at West Virginia State University's Cole Bldg. on Nov. 2 at 7:30 p.m. Admission is free, but seating is limited!

- 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.

- Mary -  Contemporary Youth Arts Company (CYAC) presents the rock opera about the mother of Jesus. The music is by Mark Scarpelli with lyrics by Dan Kehde. Shows 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.

   So get out there and support your community theatre!

Shows on a Halloween Weekend

   It's a busy weekend, what with Halloween and all, but you can also scare up some great shows (sorry, couldn't resist) being presented by your community theatre groups.

   Here's the list:

- Selections from The Twilight Zone - AAC presents this adaptation of stories from the classic TV show on Oct. 30, 31, Nov. 6 and 7 at 7 p.m., and Nov. 1 and 8 at 2 p.m. at The Alban Arts and Conference Center at 65 Olde Main Street in St. Albans, W.Va. Tickets are $15 each. Group rate available of $10 per ticket for groups of 10 or more.

- Dr. Jekyll & Mr. Hyde - Kanawha Players will present the play on Oct. 30, 31, Nov. 6 and 7 at 7:30 p.m. at the LaBelle Theater at 311 D Street in Charleston. Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for students, senior citizens and children under 18.

- Murder and Merriment present Interactive Murder Dinner Parties, including: The Haunting Party on Oct. 30 at 7 p.m. at the Tops Off Barber Shop & Beauty Salon at 229 Hale Street in Charleston. Tickets are $45 each by reservation only - call 304-389-5334; and The Haunting Party on Oct. 31 at 7 p.m. at the Greenbo Lake State Resort Park. Tickets are $40 per guest by reservation only - call 800-325-0083.

 

   So get out there and see a show!

Busy Days Ahead - and Broadway on Your TV?

  Whew! Apologies for the sporadic posts of late, gentle readers, but your pal Chuck has been swamped lately, working with the incredibly talented cast and crew of Disney's The Lion King, Jr. - the show takes the stage in just 10 days at Huntington's Renaissance Theatre!

  We'll have lots more about that in the days ahead, including interviews with the cast, so watch for that!

   I also wanted to share an interesting story from Variety about a new streaming service - like NetFlix, Hulu and the WWE Network. It plans to offer recordings of live theatre performances!

   According to the story, the service will be called BroadwayHD.

   The service reportedly has a library of more than 100 titles - including Memphis and Jekyll and Hyde.

   You can read more about it right here: http://variety.com/2015/legit/news/broadwayhd-launch-1201625343/#

On Stage This Weekend

   As Halloween draws near, there are fewer shows to choose from - but you don't want to miss these holiday offerings: 

- The Legend of Sleepy Hollow - The LimeLight Theatre Company present the classic play on Oct. 23 and 24 at 7 p.m. and Oct. 25 at 2 p.m. at the WVSU Capitol Theater at 123 Summers Street in Charleston. Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for students - or 4 tickets for $40!

- Murder and Merriment present Interactive Murder Dinner Parties, including: The Haunting Party on Oct. 22 at 7 p.m. at the 4H Camp in Barboursville. Tickets are $40 each by reservation only - call 304-302-6025; The Haunting Party on Oct. 23 at 7 p.m. at Crumpets and Tea in Huntington. Tickets are $35 each by reservation only - call 304-522-1112; and The Ghost of Windsor Manor on Oct. 24 at 7 p.m. at Angela's On The River Restaurant at 2 Sixth Avenue in St. Albans. Tickets are $45 each or $85 per couple by reservation only - call 304-721-8896.

Shakespeare On Stage

   There are two Shakespeare opportunities taking the stage soon:
  
   On Friday, Oct. 23, the American Shakespeare Center's touring company will perform Julius Caesar at the Scottish Rite Temple theatre at 406 Capitol Street in Charleston at 7:30 p.m. Get there by 7 p.m. to see these talented actors entertain prior to the play. Tickets are $20 and $10 for students (and well worth it).

   On Monday, Nov. 2, The Rustic Mechanicals, a West Virginia-based touring Shakespeare company will perform Macbeth in the Skeen Blackbox Theatre at West Virginia State University in Institute, W.Va. The performance is at 7:30 p.m., and admission is free to all. But arrive early - seating will be very limited as the space is small. 

   Don't miss them!

"Disney's The Lion King, Jr." Takes the Stage in November

   First Stage Theatre Company will present the musical Disney’s The Lion King, Jr. live on stage at the Renaissance Theatre at 900 8^th Street in Huntington, W.Va., on Fridays and Saturdays, Nov. 6, 7, 13 and 14 at 7:30 p.m., and Sundays, Nov. 8 and 15 at 2:30 p.m. Tickets are $12 for adults and $8 for children 12 and under and senior citizens.

    The musical is based on the beloved Disney animated film and the musical that is still being presented on Broadway. First Stage is the first West Virginia theatre company to stage the “Junior” version of the production. The cast and crew are made up of more than 60 young performers from local elementary, middle and high schools.

   It tells the story of a young lion named Simba who was born to be a king, but a cruel trick forces him to run away from his responsibilities. He must remember his heritage and join his friends to face great dangers if he wants to reclaim his crown.

   The show boasts a string of beloved songs, including “Circle of Life,” “I Just Can’t Wait to be King,” “Can You Feel the Love Tonight” and “Hakuna Matata.”

   “It’s an honor to be among the first theatres in the nation to get to tackle this show. Our cast has been working hard to learn the challenging songs and dances that make up the show, and it’s a big job to create the costumes and set pieces,” said director Chuck Minsker. “It’s a great show – that’s why it’s been running on Broadway so long - and it will be a lot of fun for all ages!”

    The show’s directing team includes: Director Chuck Minsker, Music Director Mark Smith, Choreographer Melissa Marcum, Assistant Choreographer Brynne Kyle, Assistant Directors Robyn Welch and Ashleigh Bailey-Bannon, Costume Designer Trish Woods and producers Leslie Comer-Porter and Becky Craig.

   Disney’s The Lion King, Jr. is the first show in the 26^th season for Huntington’s long-running children’s theatre.  Shows coming up in Spring 2016 include the play Pinocchio and the musical Junie B. Jones, Jr.

   The mission of First Stage Theatre Company is to provide opportunities for children to develop social and communication skills by participating in the performing arts and to promote fine arts education through the presentation of theatrical productions to children and families in our community.

   For more information, call 304-416-KIDS (304-416-5437) or go to www.FirstStageTheatre.org.

On Stage This Weekend

   Lots of great shows on stage this weekend, including your last chances to catch a couple of beloved musicals. Here's the list:

- Brigadoon - Arts Resources for the Tri-State (ARTS) presents the classic musical by Alan Jay Lerner and Frederick Loewe on Oct. 16 and 17 at 8 p.m. at the ARTS Renaissance Main Stage at 900 8th Street in Huntington. Tickets are $15 for the show only and $30 for dinner and the show (reservations required – call 304-733-2787.

- The Brothers Grimm Spectaculathon - Huntington High School presents the play on Oct. 16, 17 and 18.

- Mary Poppins - Charleston Light Opera Guild and The Clay Center present the musical based on the Walt Disney film and the book by Pamela Travers on Oct. 16 and 17 at 7:30 p.m. and Oct. 18 at 2 p.m. at the Clay Center for the Arts and Sciences at One Clay Square. All seats are $25 for reserved seating.

- A Midsummer Night's Dream – The Alban Arts Center will present the classic play by William Shakespeare on Oct. 16 and 17 at 8 p.m. at 65 Olde Main Street in St. Albans, W.Va. Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for children and senior citizens. 

- The Legend of Sleepy Hollow - The LimeLight Theatre Company present the classic play on Oct. 16, 17, 23 and 24 at 7 p.m. and Oct. 18 and 25 at 2 p.m. at the WVSU Capitol Theater at 123 Summers Street in Charleston. Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for students - or 4 tickets for $40!

- The Haunting Party - Murder and Merriment present an Interactive Murder Dinner Parties on Oct. 17 at 7 p.m. at The Greenhouse of Teays Valley in Hurricane, W.Va. Tickets are $45, reservations required. Call 304-397-6316.

   So get out there and support your local theatre - they need you!