The Best Local Theatre for 2014

   It’s always a trick to look back on the year gone by and try to sort out one’s favorite shows - especially since I didn’t see all the shows produced last year.

   It would probably be impossible to see all the shows presented in the Tri-state area in a year. By my count, there were approximately 120 shows presented this year! What a wealth of theatre for our area!

   It was also a heck of a busy year for your pal Chuck - I produced one show and co-directed another, my sons got married this year (one in the spring, the other in the fall), and the whole family took a two-week-long trip to Europe this summer. Whew! So, the only down side to this year of happy events was - I didn’t see nearly as many shows as I’d like.

  And don’t expect me to name Disney’s Aladdin, Jr. as my favorite show. I helped direct the show (with my pal Amy Browning), so I can hardly be expected to be objective. The same is true for the other First Stage shows this year, including Godspell, Dear Edwina, Jr. and Little Women the Musical - all wonderful shows, but I’m on the board of the theatre group, so I’m prejudiced.

   So what was the best of the ones I saw? It’s a tough call, because I saw some excellent shows.

   For musicals, I loved the classic fun and great songs in ARTS’ The Boy Friend, and the lighthearted tale and terrific songs in ARTS’ Crazy for You. I enjoyed the “not exactly a musical and yet it was” of Marshall’s Taming of the Shrew - but my favorite musical of the year title would have to one of my all-time favorites, The Pirates of Penzance (by ARTS). A show loaded with talent, lots of laughs and lighthearted fun (the memory of it alone makes me smile) - and I was amazed to see it all squeezed into the Renaissance Ballroom. 

   For straight plays, there were quite a few terrific shows, including an intense production of 12 Angry Men and a very funny presentation of Much Ado About Nothing, both from ARTS. ACT had some fun (yet moving) shows for young audiences, including A Gift-Bear for the King and Monsters Under My Bed. But the top spot is a virtual tie between Alban Arts’ Venus in Fur and ARTS’s Rabbit Hole. Both terrific productions with amazing acting and smart scripts - but while “Venus” was more fanciful, “Rabbit” hit home a little harder, with its story about a couple coping with the tragic loss of their son - so Rabbit Hole is my pick for Best Play.  

   Obviously, your mileage may vary and your list may be completely different. I invite you to send in your own choices for best shows - either post a comment below or email your list to TheMinskers@aol.com and I'll share your list on this blog. I know I missed lots of great ones (one of my New Year’s resolutions is to see more shows in 2015).

   Here's to another great season of theatre in 2015!

Free Concert - Ryan Hardiman and "Moonage Daydreams"

   Here's a great way to wrap up 2014 - two free concerts by Ryan Hardiman!

   Titled Moonage Daydream: The Bowie Songbook, the concerts are offered for free at the Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church in Charleston on New Year's Eve.

Here's the info:

   Ryan Hardiman and guest vocalist Madeline Solange Gourevitch with pianist Mark Scarpelli and a string quartet featuring Alasha Al-Qudwah, Laura Epling, Jeff Lipscomb and Dean Pauley.

Wednesday, Dec. 31
Two complete 45-minute sets at 7 p.m. and 9 p.m.
Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church
1600 Kanawha Boulevard East (corner of Elizabeth Street and Kanawha Boulevard)
Charleston

Arrangements for voice, piano and string quartet by Mark Scarpelli, featuring the music of David Bowie.

A featured event of Goodnight Charleston 2014 presented by Charleston Community Music Association.

Sponsored by White Insurance & Associates

Jonathan Tucker will be presenting An Evening of Josh Groban at the same location, at 6 p.m. and 8 p.m.

A Benefit for a Friend

   The local theatre community is gathering around its own.

   A fire claimed the home of Tom and Marnie Riddell and left Tom with serious injuries, and their theatre friends have offered help - both in terms of a gofundme account (which you can donate to right here) - and Tuesday night there will be a special fundraiser - a murder mystery.

    Tuesday, Dec. 30 at 7 p.m., the group Murder and Merriment will present "The Murderer Who Came to Dinner!" at the Greenhouse of Teays Valley in Hurricane, W.Va. Reservations will be accepted up to noon Tuesday by calling 304-397-6316. 

   For your donation, you will be entertained by some of the best actors in the Tri-State, you will be fed a delicious dinner, you'll have the opportunity to win a prize - and you will know that you have helped Tom and Marnie on their road to recovery. 

   Ticket prices are only $35 each. Marnie is one of the regular company members and this was the first mystery she ever did with the group. 

Bowie & Bing

   Hope you're all having a great holiday!

   One last Christmas music video before we get back to our regular business (covering community theatre, natch).

   This one combines two very different performers - Bing Crosby and David Bowie - in a unique Christmas medley.

The Little Drummer Boy

   Here's the excellent vocal group Pentatonix with their take on a classic Christmas song:

The Twelve Days of Christmas

   Continuing our Christmas music theme, here's another old favorite as singer / songwriter John Denver joins forces with The Muppets to give their own spin on the classic "Twelve Days of Christmas!"

Christmastime!

   MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!

Happy Holidays! (#2)

   Continuing our Christmas celebration, here's a nifty bit of animation and music from 1966. Amazingly, this was the classy way that CBS-TV wished its viewers "Happy Holidays!" We extend the same wish to our readers!

Merry Christmas! (#1)

   As is traditional for this site, we'll take a break from blogging about shows for the holidays - but let's point out that there's one more show taking the stage in our area this month:

   Miracle on 34th Street - The Charleston Light Opera Guild presents the musical based on the classic 1947 film on Dec. 26 and 27 at 7 p.m. and Dec. 28 at 2 p.m. at the Culture Center Theater at the West Virginia Capitol Complex. Tickets are $20 each. 

   The rest of the holiday we'll share some favorite Christmas much videos, starting with one of the most unusual - Bob Dylan singing "It Must Be Santa."

"White Christmas"

   On stage this weekend in Ashland is the classic musical White Christmas!

   You can read more about it in this story in the Herald-Dispatch. Here's an excerpt:

Based on the wonderful and now iconic songs written by the legendary Irvin Berlin, the 1954 film starred Bing Crosby, Danny Kaye, Vera-Ellen and Rosemary Clooney, George Clooney's aunt who grew up not far from the Tri-State in the Ohio River town of Maysville, Kentucky.

While a lot of classic movies back in the day started out as plays or Broadway musicals, White Christmas began as a film and was not translated into a stage production until 2004. The Paramount Players will perform the musical Irving Berlin's White Christmas at the historic Paramount Arts Center in Ashland.

Irving Berlin's White Christmas will be performed at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 19 and Saturday, Dec. 20, and a 3 p.m. matinee performance on Dec. 20. Tickets are $14.50.

The Paramount Arts Center is located at 1300 Winchester Ave., in Ashland. More information can be found at www.paramountartscenter.com and 606-324-3175.

On Stage This Weekend

   December's usually a busy month for community theaters, but as we get close to Christmas, you usually see a sharp drop-off in shows.

   That's because most groups try to get the shows done before the holiday becomes too overwhelming. But this year, even though we're just a week away from the holiday, we still have several shows running - and one even runs the weekend after Christmas!

   Here's the lineup for the next two weekends: 

- A Christmas Carol - Alban Arts and Conference Center presents the classic Dickens play Dec. 19 and 20 at 8 p.m., and Dec. 21 at 2 p.m. at the Alban Arts and Conference Center at 65 Olde Main Plaza in St. Albans. Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for students and seniors. 

- An Old Fashioned Christmas and a Movie - The Nutcracker Story - Limelight Theatre Company presents a video of the group’s 2012 and 2013 performances of "The Nutcracker Story." the show also features a pre-show performance by live singers and dancers. It’ll be presented Dec. 19 and 20 at 7 p.m. and Dec. 20 and 21 at 2 p.m. at the WVSC Capitol Center Theatre at 123 Summers Street in Charleston. All tickets are $8.

- Miracle on 34th Street - The Charleston Light Opera Guild presents the musical based on the classic 1947 film on Dec. 19, 20, 26 and 27 at 7 p.m. and Dec. 21 and 28 at 2 p.m. at the Culture Center Theater at the West Virginia Capitol Complex. Tickets are $20 each. 

- Jacob Marley's Christmas Carol - Kanawha Players preents the play based on the Dickens classic on Dec. 18 and 19 at 7 p.m. at the LaBelle Theater at 311 D Street in South Charleston. Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for students, seniors and children under 18.

- Irving Berlin's White Christmas: The Musical - The Paramount Players presents the Irving Berlin classic on Dec. 18, 19 and 20 at 7:30 p.m. and Dec. 20 at 3 p.m. at the Paramount Arts Center on 1300 Winchester Avenue in Ashland. There will be a Pre-show Chorus 30 minutes before showtime. Tickets are $14 for adults and $10 for students (if purchased in advance) and $16 for adults and $12 for students (purchased the day of the show). 

   So get out there and dive into the holiday spirit!

Disney on Broadway: "Proud of Your Boy"

    If you caught the Disney on Broadway special this weekend, you saw a clip of Glee's Darren Criss singing "Proud of Your Boy," a song written especially for the Broadway version of Disney's Aladdin.

   To catch the whole song, you have to visit YouTube - or you can watch it here:

This Weekend - "Best Christmas Pageant Ever"

   Here we go - Sunday is your last chance to catch the last show taking the stage in Huntington for 2014!

   The Best Christmas Pageant Ever is being presented by Curtains Up Players (CUP) on Sunday, Dec. 14 (Dinner at 2:30 p.m. and the show at 3 p.m.). 

   The show tells the story of an attempt to stage a Christmas pageant - but when the toughest kids in town get involved, will it be the best pageant ever - or the worst?

   The play will be presented at St Paul Lutheran Church at 721 12th Avenue in Huntington. Tickets are $15 for adults and students and includes a Spaghetti Dinner complete with salad, bread and dessert.

This Weekend - "Rabbit Hole"

   This weekend is your last chance to catch the drama Rabbit Hole! (You can read my review right here).

   The play tells the story of parents Howie and Becca after their young child is killed in a tragic accident. The play examines how we cope with loss as a family and as individuals. Filled with love, laughter, anger, sorrow, and soul-searching, the play shows how we can allow hope to grow even while mourning. 

   ARTS presents the Pulitzer Prize-winning play at the Renaissance Ballroom at 900 8th Street in Huntington on Friday and Saturday, Dec. 12 and 13 at 8 p.m. 

   Tickets for dinner and the show are $30 (reservations required - call 304-733-2787) - show only is $15. 

   This play contains adult language and adult subject matter.

 

On Stage This Weekend - Lots of Holiday Shows and "Rabbit Hole"

    Lots and lots of great shows on stage for the holiday weekend - here's the rundown:

- Rabbit Hole - Arts Resources for the Tri-State (ARTS) presents the Pulitzer Prize-winning play at the Renaissance Ballroom at 900 8th Street in Huntington on Friday and Saturday, Dec. 12 and 13 at 8 p.m. Tickets for dinner and the show are $30 (reservations required) - show only is $15. The drama tells the story of parents Howie and Becca after their young child is killed by a teenage driver. The play examines how we cope with loss as a family and as individuals. Filled with love, laughter, anger, sorrow, and soul-searching, the play shows how we can allow hope to grow even while mourning. This play contains adult language and adult subject matter.

- The Best Christmas Pageant Ever - Curtains Up Players (CUP) presents the holiday play on Friday and Saturday, Dec. 12 and 13 (Dinner is served at 7 p.m., the show starts at 7:30 p.m., with a matinee on Sunday, Dec. 14 (Dinner at 2:30 p.m. and the show at 3 p.m.). It will be presented at St Paul Lutheran Church at 721 12th Avenue in Huntington. Tickets are $15 for adults and students and includes a Spaghetti Dinner complete with salad, bread and dessert.

- The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe - Children’s Theatre of Charleston presents the C.S. Lewis classic story that was adapted into the Narnia movies. The play will be presented Friday and Saturday, Dec. 12 and 13 at 7 p.m. and Sunday, Dec. 13 and 14 at 2 p.m. at the Charleston Civic Center Little Theatre.

- An O. Henry Christmas - Portsmouth Little Theatre presents the play Friday and Saturday, Dec. 12 and 13 at 7:30 p.m. at the theatre at 1117 Lawson Street in Portsmouth. Tickets are $12 for adults and $10 for seniors and students. 

- A Christmas Carol - Alban Arts and Conference Center presents the classic Dickens play Friday and Saturday, Dec. 12, 13, 19 and 20 at 8 p.m., and Sunday, Dec. 14 and 21 at 2 p.m. at the Alban Arts and Conference Center at 65 Olde Main Plaza in St. Albans. Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for students and seniors. 

- An Old Fashioned Christmas and a Movie - The Nutcracker Story - Limelight Theatre Company presents a video of the group’s 2012 and 2013 performances of "The Nutcracker Story." the show also features a pre-show performance by live singers and dancers. It’ll be presented Dec. 12, 13, 19 and 20 at 7 p.m. and Dec. 13, 14, 20 and 21 at 2 p.m. at the WVSC Capitol Center Theatre at 123 Summers Street in Charleston. All tickets are $8.

   So get out there and support your local theatre!

"Peter Pan Live"

   I'm running late, but I finally got a chance to see Peter Pan Live, the NBC production that adapted the Broadway show for a live TV production (thanks, DVR).

   And I have to admit, I enjoyed it - mostly. (There's apparently a cottage industry of haters out there who spring up to pick these shows apart, having started with last season's Sound of Music. That's fine, it's a free country, but I for one love seeing the networks tackle these live productions.)

   I thought the show was impressive, with some terrific talent on display. Allison Williams did an excellent job in the title role - she has an excellent singing voice and the physicality to manage the high-flying effects.  

   Christopher Walken took some chances in the role of Captain Hook, playing it in a more subdued, comic style (as opposed to the usual manic approach). Still, he's a heck of a hoofer and he earned quite a few laughs along the way.

   The rest of the cast was excellent, with strong performances across the board.

   The production values were terrific, with absolutely stunning sets, costumes and camera work on display - I was especially impressed to see the cast fly from their bedroom to the skies over London and then to Neverland, all in one musical sequence.

   The choreography was excellent, the re-worked numbers (especially Tiger Lilly's song) we very good, and I even liked the edits and additions.

   So what didn't I like? Well, I don't understand why Michael and John were played by kids, but the Lost Boys were played by grown men (though at least they cast men with boyish features - and certainly they're all talented performers). I can understand using adults for a long-running show, but for a one-off like this, surely they could round up enough talented young performers.

   I'm not sure why the father of the kids was doubled in as Smee, instead of Captain Hook - was it too difficult to manage the makeup change in time? Seems like a shame to miss Walken in both roles.

   The final swordfight sequence between Hook and Pan was pretty tame - surely they could make it a little more convincing (and here I admit I'm getting picky).

   But my biggest gripe is the one I've had with this show since I saw the Mary Martin version as a kid - namely, why do they always cast a woman in the title role? (Even as a child, I never believed for a second that Martin was a boy.) Again, I understand the reason behind casting a woman in a (potentially) long-running Broadway or touring show - and there's no denying the talent of the women who have tackled the role, including Martin, Sandy Duncan, Cathy Rigsby and now Williams - but just once I'd like to see a production with the courage to cast an actual boy (or teen or young man) as Pan - it would be interesting to see a different take, and again, for a one-time production, it could be managed.

   Still, none of that is to take away from this excellent production. Hopefully the networks will continue to adapt stage shows for Broadcast - especially if it helps spark interest in live theatre!

"The Last Five Years"

   It's a great time to be a theatre fan - the film version of Into the Woods hits theaters later this month, and next year we get the film based on the much-loved musical The Last Five Years.

   That show is a clever look at a young couple, told in an unusual way - it looks at their relationship from beginning to end - and from end to beginning. It's loaded with great songs and a unique storytelling method.

   The trailer for that film was released today - here's a sneak peek:

"Rabbit Hole" - A Review

  We're blessed with lots of community theatre productions in our area, but precious few are what most of us would classify as serious drama. 

   That's especially true at this time of year, when we're happily overrun with holiday shows, including Scrooge (with at least four versions on that story this month), O. Henry and assorted takes on the Christmas story.   

   We're always glad to see those shows, of course, but thankfully there are groups willing to tackle more weighty matters - and a great example is the one non-holiday show being offered this month: Rabbit Hole, which is being presented by ARTS (Arts Resources for the Tri-State) in Huntington.

   There's nothing light and fluffy about it. The drama follows the story of a couple who have suffered the worst nightmare of every parent: their child was killed in an accident. Here we see a true-life look at how they deal with the tragedy.

   It's a raw, honest take on a difficult subject, but while the story can be heart-wrenching (you'll certainly need a hanky more than once), it also has an uplifting, human side, and offers hope and redemption.

   It features a small but amazing cast - there are five actors in the play: 

   Amy Carlson plays Becca, the mother who struggles to make sense of a senseless event. It's an amazing, heartfelt and realistic performance of a woman whose emotions dance just below the surface, always threatening to spill over into anger or pain or tears.

   Her husband Howie is played by Len Trent, a man who’s fighting to fix something that it may not be possible to mend - his wife and his marriage. It’s a raw, powerful portrayal. Len has demonstrated in recent years that he’s a master of playing intense roles, but this adds new depths. 

   Izzy is played by Joanna Berner, and she provides some of the much-needed comic relief as the vulgar, irresponsible and often delightful sister of Becca. She has an amazing knack for saying - and doing - the wrong thing at the wrong time, which only increases the tension. 

   Linda Reynolds plays Nat, the Mom of the two sisters, and she offers an interesting perspective on how a mother deals with the death of a child, since she has prior experience. Linda is a master of comic performances, but it’s wonderful to see her tackle a “straight” role. She’s amazing, of course, but watch out - she’ll break your heart with just the tiniest move. 

   Tristan Reynolds plays the only outsider in the show - a teenager named Jason. He’s directly connected to the loss and fighting to make sense of it from his own perspective. It’s a sensitive, thoughtful portrayal of a young man going through his own kind of pain.   

   Rabbit Hole won a Pulitzer Prize, and it’s easy to see why - it’s an intelligent, powerful script that never takes the easy or expected route. 

    The production company has done an impressive job bringing the story to life. They created a realistic set that makes up the home of Becca and Howie, right down to the living room, kitchen and their son’s bedroom. The lighting and sound are subtle and professionally produced.

   

   Kudos to director Mike Murdock and his production crew for crafting one of the year’s best shows. It’s not for kids - it includes plenty of adult language and emotional content - but it’s a show that should not be missed. 

   Highly, highly recommended!  

  Rabbit Hole is presented at the Renaissance Ballroom at 900 8th Street in Huntington on Dec. 6, 12 and 13 at 8 p.m. Tickets for dinner and the show are $30 (reservations required - call 304-733-2787) - show only is $15.

Interview with Len Trent from "Rabbit Hole"

   The month of December is typically flooded with holiday-oriented stage shows - and this year is no different - but if you’re looking for something a little different, much more adult and thoughtful, you won’t go wrong with the Pulitzer Prize-winning drama Rabbit Hole, being presented by ARTS over the next two weekends at the Renaissance Theatre in Huntington.

   It features a small cast of amazing actors - so let’s hear from them, starting with the intense and talented leading man, Len Trent.

Q: For those not familiar with the show tell us about Rabbit Hole. 

Len: This is the the story of a couple dealing with the recent loss of their child. They are handling it in very different ways and it could tear them apart.

Q: Tell us about the character you play. 

Len: I play Howie. He is the father of the deceased child. He is trying as well as he can to keep the memory of his son in his life and preserve his marriage. 

Q: Is it challenging tackling such an emotional role? 

Len: Yes. Any role is a challenge, but the hard subject matter and intimacy of the space give it a uniqueness that can seem overwhelming at times. 

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

Len: It's Mike Murdock, and the Pulitzer Prize! Also, had I known the casting beforehand, I would have sold pieces of my soul to do this show. 

  

Q: Why would you recommend this show? 

Len: Wonderful writing and great directing. This one will hit you where you live.

   Thanks, Len!

    Rabbit Hole will be presented at the Renaissance Ballroom at 900 8th Street in Huntington on Dec. 5, 6, 12 and 13 at 8 p.m. Tickets for dinner and the show are $30 (reservations required - call 304-733-2787) - show only is $15.

On Stage in December

  As you’d expect, the holiday season brings with it lots of Christmas shows (and one non-holiday show) - here’s the rundown (so far):

- Rabbit Hole - Arts Resources for the Tri-State (ARTS) presents the Pulitzer Prize-winning play at the Renaissance Ballroom at 900 8th Street in Huntington on Dec. 5, 6, 12 and 13 at 8 p.m. Tickets for dinner and the show are $30 (reservations required) - show only is $15. The drama tells the story of parents Howie and Becca after their young child is killed by a teenage driver. The play examines how we cope with loss as a family and as individuals. Filled with love, laughter, anger, sorrow, and soul-searching, the play shows how we can allow hope to grow even while mourning. This play contains adult language and adult subject matter.

- Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer - Marshall Artist’s Series presents the touring Broadway musical on Dec. 4 at 7:30 p.m. at the Keith Albee Performing Arts Center. First airing in 1964, Rudolph has become a beloved Christmas classic, capturing the hearts and wonder of generations of fans.

- The Best Christmas Pageant Ever - Curtains Up Players (CUP) presents the holiday play on Dec 5, 6,12 and 13 (Dinner is served at 7 p.m., the show starts at 7:30 p.m., with matinees on Dec. 7 and 14 (Dinner at 2:30 p.m. and the show at 3 p.m.). It will be presented at St Paul Lutheran Church at 721 12th Avenue in Huntington. Tickets are $15 for adults and students and includes a Spaghetti Dinner complete with salad, bread and dessert.

- Mary - CYAC presents its 18th annual production of the original rock musical about the life of the mother of Jesus. The show will be presented Dec. 4, 5 and 6 at 8 p.m. at the WVSU Capitol Center Theater at 123 Summers Street in Charleston.

- The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe - Children’s Theatre of Charleston presents the C.S. Lewis classic story that was adapted into the Narnia movies. The play will be presented Dec. 12 and 13 at 7 p.m. and Dec. 13 and 14 at 2 p.m. at the Charleston Civic Center Little Theatre.

- A Christmas Carol: Scrooge and Marley - ACTC presents the musical based on the novel by Charles Dickens on Dec. 4, 5 and 6 at 8 p.m. and Dec. 7 at 2:30 p.m. at the J. B. Sowards Theatre at 1400 College Drive in Ashland. Tickets are $8 for adults, $5 for students and senior citizens and $2 for ACTC / MSU / Lindsey Wilson students.

- A Laura Ingalls Wilder Christmas - Paramount Players presents the play based on the classic story on Dec. 4 at 7:30 p.m. at the Paramount Arts Center at 1300 Winchester Avenue in Ashland. Tickets are $10 for adults and $8 for students (when bought in advance), and $12 for adults and $10 for students (on the day of the show). 

- An O. Henry Christmas - Portsmouth Little Theatre presents the play Dec. 5, 6, 12 and 13 at 7:30 p.m. at the theatre at 1117 Lawson Street in Portsmouth. Tickets are $12 for adults and $10 for seniors and students. 

- The Gifts of the Magi - First United Methodist Church of Ashland presents the musical adapted from the story by O'Henry on Dec. 5 and 6 (dinner begins at 6:30 p.m. and the show at 7:30 p.m.) at the church at 1811 Carter Avenue in Ashland. Dinner tickets are $10 for adults and $8 for students. Show only tickets are $5.

- A Christmas Carol - Alban Arts and Conference Center presents the classic Dickens play Dec. 12, 13, 19 and 20 at 8 p.m., and Dec. 14 and 21 at 2 p.m. at the Alban Arts and Conference Center at 65 Olde Main Plaza in St. Albans. Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for students and seniors. 

- An Old Fashioned Christmas and a Movie - The Nutcracker Story - Limelight Theatre Company presents a video of the group’s 2012 and 2013 performances of "The Nutcracker Story." the show also features a pre-show performance by live singers and dancers. It’ll be presented Dec. 12, 13, 19 and 20 at 7 p.m. and Dec. 13, 14, 20 and 21 at 2 p.m. at the WVSC Capitol Center Theatre at 123 Summers Street in Charleston. All tickets are $8.

- Miracle on 34th Street - The Charleston Light Opera Guild presents the musical based on the classic 1947 film on Dec. 19, 20, 26 and 27 at 7 p.m. and Dec. 21 and 28 at 2 p.m. at the Culture Center Theater at the West Virginia Capitol Complex. Tickets are $20 each. 

- Jacob Marley's Christmas Carol - Kanawha Players preents the play based on the Dickens classic on Dec. 18 and 19 at 7 p.m. at the LaBelle Theater at 311 D Street in South Charleston. Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for students, seniors and children under 18.

- Irving Berlin's White Christmas: The Musical - The Paramount Players presents the Irving Berlin classic on Dec. 18, 19 and 20 at 7:30 p.m. and Dec. 20 at 3 p.m. at the Paramount Arts Center on 1300 Winchester Avenue in Ashland. There will be a Pre-show Chorus 30 minutes before showtime. Tickets are $14 for adults and $10 for students (if purchased in advance) and $16 for adults and $12 for students (purchased the day of the show). 

   Whew! So get out there, see a show and support your community theatre groups! And Merry Christmas!

Broadway on TV

   There are a couple of shows coming up in the weeks ahead that you'll want to keep an eye out for:

- Kristin Chenoweth: Coming Home runs this weekend on Public Television - a wonderful concert from her hometown, it's loaded with amazing songs by one of Broadway's biggest talents.

- Peter Pan - NBC presents a live version of the beloved musical - it will air Thursday, Dec. 4 at 8 p.m. It'll be interesting to watch just to see the changes they've made - and Christopher Walken as Capt. Hook should be a lot of fun. 

- Backstage with Disney on Broadway: Celebrating 20 Years - ABC will showcase Disney's Broadway productions in this special. Hosted by Modern Family’s” Jesse Tyler Ferguson, the one hour special will feature Disney’s eight Broadway musicals: Beauty and the Beast, The Lion King, AIDA, Tarzan, The Little Mermaid, Mary Poppins, Newsies and Aladdin. The show will include musical performances from Elton John, Sam Palladio and Clare Bowen, Ashley Brown and Adam Jacobs. It airs Sunday, Dec. 14 at 7 p.m.

On Stage This Weekend: "Mary"

   Hope you're having a Happy Thanksgiving weekend, gentle readers!

   There's only one show taking the stage this weekend, but it's a great one:

   Mary - CYAC presents its 18th annual production of the original rock musical about the life of the mother of Jesus. The show will be presented Nov. 28, 29, Dec. 4, 5 and 6 at 8 p.m. and Nov. 30 at 2 p.m. at the WVSU Capitol Center Theater at 123 Summers Street.

   Don't miss it!

Magic Makers to Close

   Surprising news today as the long-time Huntington business known as Magic Makers announced it would soon be going out of business.

   The company (which is to say, Ken Epperly and Ken Fox) has provided costumes, props and other theatre services across the country for decades now, and has been especially generous with its expertise with area theatre groups.

   Their company has always been impressive, with a huge shop with acres of costumes from all time periods.

   It's almost impossible to put on a local show without renting some costumes or buying some props from the store - and they've always worked overtime to provide those hard-to-find items.

   For example, when First Stage produced Les Miserables: School Edition, there was a particular costume jacket that Magic Makers, surprisingly, didn't have in stock - so they made one for the show.

   Certainly everyone is entitled to retire after a long and distinguished career of service - but we're sad to see them go!

   You can read more about it in this story in today's Herald-Dispatch - here's an excerpt:

 The shop that has sold everything from standard green witch makeup to realistic Abraham Lincoln costumes year-round is ready to close its doors after more than 35 years. 

Magic Makers, 545 4th Ave., is in the process of obtaining a license to have its going-out-of-business sale. Ken Epperly, who owns the business with partner Ken Fox, said they expect to start the sale next week. They are closed all this week to prepare.
Epperly said declining sales, the multitude of seasonal Halloween shops and the Internet have all attributed to Magic Makers' slow descent.

Actors for Children Theatre Wins Three Awards at Theatre Festival

   Actors for Children Theatre of Flatwoods will represent Kentucky at the Southeastern Theatre Conference in March 2015, after winning top honors at the Community Theatre Festival of the Kentucky Theatre Association this past weekend.

   ACT received three awards in adjudicated performance at KTA, including Outstanding Production for Monsters Under the Bed written by Gay H. Hammond; Outstanding Ensemble and Best Costume and Make-Up Design.  

   The festival, held November 21-22, 2014 on the campus of Eastern Kentucky University, included performances by ACT and community theatres from Ft. Thomas, Middlesboro, Bardstown, Murray and Richmond. 

   “ACT is pleased to represent the state of Kentucky for the second year in a row at the SETC Community Theatre Festival,” said Sarah Diamond Burroway, director and co-founder of ACT.  

   At SETC, ACT will perform in adjudicated competition with community theatre troupes from ten state including Kentucky, Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia.

 “Monsters Under the Bed provides a great story for children,” Burroway said.  “It’s fun and quirky and shares an imaginative anthology of scenes, stories and poems with the underlying message for children that sometimes the things we fear really aren’t what they seem to be,” she concluded.

 Cast members include:  ACT co-founder Bill Burroway, Emma Grace Imes and Miranda Hutchinson, all of Flatwoods; Ethan Darby and Kristina Richins, both of Ashland; and Matthew Johnson of Wheelersburg, Ohio. 

 ACT is a troupe of adult actors who perform theatre for youth in settings like schools, arts centers, libraries and other venues.  For more information about booking a performances by Actors for Children Theatre, contact director Sarah Diamond Burroway at 606-922-2903.  Or, look for Actors for Children Theatre on Facebook.

Photo by Brad Bear

Catching Up...

   Whew! It's been a hectic couple of weeks for your ol' pal Chuck.

 

   - My oldest son married his beautiful fiancée last week in a lovely wedding ceremony. His brother got hitched to his beautiful fiancée in the spring, so it's been a wonderful (and busy) year for the Minsker family!

 

   - Then last weekend I caught the final performance of Little Women the Musical, and I'm so glad I did! It was a wonderful show, with amazing performances by the talented cast, several lovely and very moving songs, lots of heart and a terrific set. 

 

   - I also want to send out congratulations to our pals at ACT (Actors for Children's Theatre) - they took part in the Kentucky Theatre Association's 2014 Community Theatre Festival in Richmond, Ky., and took home several major awards for their production Monsters Under the Bed, including "Best Costumes & Makeup," "Best Ensemble" and "Outstanding Production"! They will represent Kentucky at the Southeastern Theatre Conference' s Community Theatre Festival in Chattanooga, Tenn. - congratulations! 

 

   - It's shaping up to be a busy December for community theatre groups, with lots of terrific shows on tap - we'll have a complete listing soon.

 

   So we all have a lot to be thankful for! Have a great holiday!

Final Weekend for "Little Women: the Musical"

   First Stage Theatre Company puts a new musical twist on the 2005 Broadway show  Little Women: The Musical, based on the classic Louisa May Alcott novel set in the Civil War. The musical production rolls into its last weekend with shows at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 22  and 2 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 23.

   Based on Alcott’s classic  semi-autobiographical novel, it focuses on the four March sisters — brassy, tomboy-like, aspiring writer Jo (Meg Barber), romantic Meg (Sarah Bryan), pretentious Amy (Rileigh Smirl), and kind-hearted Beth (Erica Clonch) — and their beloved Marmee (Tamara Meadows).

   The ladies are “home alone” in Concord, Mass., trying to keep things together while the family patriarch is away serving as a Union Army chaplain during the Civil War. Like a year in the life, “Little Women” is intercut with the vignettes in which their lives unfold are several recreations of the melodramatic short stories Jo writes in her attic studio.

   Director Mary Smirl said the musical is packed with emotions as the family deals the day-to-day drama and monumental events as their lives turn in the wake of war.

    “We have two weddings, the birth of twins, a death and so there is every emotion,” Smirl said. “It is a joyful, beautiful and hopeful story. It takes place within a year, four seasons and it moves quickly. There is not a lot of serious, heavy-duty dialogue.”

   Smirl said they picked the coming-of-age musical because of its strong literary and historical relevance.

   “When the production committee meets we try to pick things that one the kids will enjoy being a part of and two a show that we can do for the schools,” Smirl said. “This is a classic novel and it is historical as well.”

   The shows take place at the Jean Carlo Stephenson Auditorium in Huntington City Hall. Tickets are $12 and $10 students/seniors. Call 304-416-KIDS for more info.

On Stage This Weekend

    On stage this weekend - several terrific shows:

- Little Women: the Musical - First Stage Theatre Company presents the classic story Nov. 21 and 22 at 7:30 p.m. and Nov. 23 at 2 p.m. at the Huntington City Hall JCS Auditorium at 800 5th Avenue.  Tickets are $12 for adults and $10 for students and senior citizens. It’s based on the novel by American author Louisa May Alcott, which follows the lives of four sisters—Meg, Jo, Beth, and Amy March—detailing their passage from childhood to womanhood. 

- The Three Sisters - Marshall’s Theatre Alliance presents the classic play by Anton Chekhov on Nov. 21 and 22 at 7:30 p.m. in the Francis-Booth Experimental Theatre in the Joan C. Edwards Performing Arts Center. In Chekhov’s wistful tale of love and war, Olga, Masha and Irina, army daughters, posted in a backwater, long to get to Moscow where, they imagine, their lives will be transformed and fulfilled. They fall in love, try to engage with the local people, and remember happier times. “The Three Sisters” is truly one of the great treasures of 19th century theatre.

- Cinderella - Huntington High School presents the classic fairy tale about the girl who falls in love with a Prince - thanks to some help from her fairy Godmother. The show will be staged Nov. 21 and 22 at 7:30 p.m. and Nov. 23 at 3 p.m.

- A Doll's House - This is the inaugural performance of the St. Joseph Catholic High School Drama Society, presenting Henrik Ibsen’s immortal drama, Admission is free (donations are accepted), but seating is limited. Performances are Nov. 21 and 22 at 8 p.m, at St. Joseph Catholic High School at 600 13th Street in Huntington. The production is entirely conceived, directed, acted, and crewed by students of St. Joseph.

- KTA 2014 Community Theatre Festival - the Play Festival features these contributors:
Fri., Nov. 21 from 1 p.m. - 8:45 p.m.
Middlesboro Little Theatre - "The Miracle Worker"
The Village Players of Ft. Thomas - "On Weapons and Wounds"
Rose Barn Theatre - "One Day in Cleveland
Sat., Nov. 22 from 11:30 a.m. - 4:15 p.m.
Bardstown Community Theatre - "She's Gone"
Actors for Children Theatre - "Monsters Under The Bed"
Playhouse in the Park - "Hard Candy"
Brock Auditorium
Eastern Kentucky University
Richmond, Ky
Day Pass Admission: $5 at the door
www.theatreky.org

- The Children's Hour - Morehead State University Theatre present the play Nov. 21 and 22 at 7:30 p.m. and Nov. 23 at 2 p.m. at the LCL Theatre in Brekinridge Hall in Morehead, Ky. Tickets are $10, $5 for seniors and non-MSU students, Free with ID to MSU students.

- An Enemy of the People - West Virginia State University Dept. of Theatre present the play on Nov. 21 and 22 at 7 p.m. at the Skeen Theatre, Cole Complex at WV State University in  Institute. Admission by donation.

    So get out there and support your community theatre!

On Stage This Weekend: "Cinderella"

   The timeless classic Cinderella tells the story of a neglected young girl, Cinderella, who is trying to find love.

   Cinderella will be produced by Huntington High School at 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Nov. 21 and 22 and at 3 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 23.

   Cinderella is portrayed by senior, Leslie Collins. She is a captain of the Speech and Debate team and is a Thespian Officer. Her theatre resume is filled with many Huntington High shows as well as multiple community shows. The prince is played by Franklin Norton, HHS's student body president and member of the Morning Show team. The show also features veteran senior actresses Cassi Hall and Lilly Dyer as the infamous stepsisters and Emily Underwood as the magical Fairy Godmother.

   According to Collins, "This is a family-friendly show that is entertaining for all ages. It has been a while since a theatre in the Huntington area has done a show like it. After all, everyone loves a good happily ever after."

   General admission is $5.

Local Stars Flying High

    We love to brag on our local stars - and here's the latest on a daredevil duo!

    Mary Ellen Wolfe, who grew up on local stages playing everything from Annie to Dorothy, now stars with her husband Tyce Nielsen as Duo Transcend.

   They're now appearing as part of CabaRAE in Hawaii, where they perform acrobatics with "nerves of steel" - it's a swift, award-winning trapeze act. Together, they bring strength, grace, sensuality and passion to the CabaRAE stage. 

   You can learn more about the show at this website! 

   Congratulations, Mary Ellen and Tyce!

On Stage This Weekend

   Lots of great shows to choose from, including a musical and a non-musical about sisters, and two productions of A Doll's House (one in Huntington, one in Charleston). 

   Here's the rundown, courtesy of my pal Ryan Hardiman:

- Little Women the Musical
First Stage Theatre Company
Fri. - Sat., Nov. 14, 15, 21 and 22 at 7:30 p.m.
Matinees Sunday, Nov. 16 and 23 at 2 p.m.
JCS Auditorium
Huntington City Hall
800 5th Avenue, Huntington
Adults $12 / $10 Students & Seniors
304-416-KIDS

- The Three Sisters (Play)
By Anton Chekov
Marshall Theatre Alliance
Fri. and Sat., Nov. 14 and 15 at 7:30 p.m.
and Thurs. - Sat., Nov. 20 - 22 at 7:30 p.m.
Joan C. Edwards Playhouse
One John Marshall Drive
Marshall University
Tickets $20 at the door, $15 for Marshall faculty and senior citizens, and free for Marshall students with valid MU student ID
304-696-2787

- A Doll's House (Play)
by Henrik Ibsen
St. Joseph Catholic High School Drama Society
Fri. - Sat., Nov. 14, 15, 21 and 22 at 8 p.m.
St. Joseph Catholic High School
600 13th Street, Huntington
FREE - Limited seating
Donations accepted

- A Doll's House (Play)
by Henrik Ibsen
George Washington High School's Theatre of the Nevertheless
Fri. and Sat., Nov. 14 and 15 at 7 p.m.
Matinee Sun., Nov. 16 at 1 p.m.
George Washington High School
1522 Tennis Club Rd, Charleston
$12 Adults / $10 Students

- This Was Your Life! (Interactive Murder Dinner Party)
Murder and Merriment
Fri. and Sat., Nov. 14 and 15 at 7 p.m.
The Greenhouse of Teays Valley, Hurricane, W.Va.
Tickets $45
Reservations Required: 304-397-6316

    So get out there and support your local theatre!