On Stage This Weekend

   Here's the rundown of shows coming up this weekend, courtesy of my pal Ryan Hardiman:

- Crazy for You (Musical)
Music by George Gershwin, Lyrics by Ira Gershwin, Book by Ken Ludwig
Arts Resources for the Tri State (ARTS)
Fri. and Sat., Oct. 31 and Nov. 1 at 8 p.m.
Matinee Sun., Nov. 2 at 2 p.m.
ARTS Mainstage
900 8th Street in Huntington
General Admission
Tickets are $15 

- Fiddler on the Roof (Musical)
Music by Jerry Bock, lyrics by Sheldon Harnick, Book by Joseph Stein
The Charleston Light Opera Guild, co-presenting with The Clay Center
Fri. and Sat., Oct. 31, Nov. 1 and Nov. 7 - 8 at 7:30 p.m.
Matinee Sun., Nov. 2 and 9 at 2 p.m.
Clay Center for the Arts and Sciences
One Clay Square in Charleston
$25 all seats reserved
Clay Center Box Office: 304-561-3570

- One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest (Play)

by Dale Wasserman, with music by Teiji Ito. Based on the novel by Ken Kesey
Portsmouth Little Theatre
Fri. and Sat., Oct. 31 and Nov. 1 at 7:30 p.m.
Portsmouth Little Theatre
1117 Lawson Street in Portsmouth, Ohio
$12 Adults / $10 Senior/Student
740-353-7034 pltlive.com

- Evil Dead: The Musical (Musical)

Book & Lyrics By George Reinblatt
Music By Frank Cipolla/Christopher Bond/Melissa Morris/George Reinblatt
Kanawha Players
Fri. and Sat., Oct. 31 and Nov. 1 at 8 p.m.
Kanawha Players Theater
309 Beauregard St., Charleston, WV
$16 Adults / $10 Kids 17 and under / $10 Students with ID
Tickets: www.kanawhaplayers.org  304-343-7529
or at the door while tickets last.
*Parental discretion is advised & children under 16 will not be permitted without an adult*

- Murder on the Mountain (Interactive Murder Dinner Party)

Murder and Merriment
Sat., Nov. 1 at 7 p.m.
Greenbo Lake State Resort Park
965 Lodge Road in Greenup, Ky.
Tickets $40
Reservations Required: 606-473-7423

    So get out there and support your community theatre!

Interview #3 With the Cast of "Crazy for You"

  We've had a couple of interviews with the cast of the musical Crazy for You, which wraps up this weekend in Huntington - and here's another one! Let's hear from the talented Mark Albert:

Q: Tell us about Crazy for You.

Mark: The show is a romantic comedy, with timeless songs by Gershwin.

Q: Tell us about your work on the musical.

Mark: I play Sam, an easy goin' cowboy.

Q: I understand this show required a lot of rehearsal.

Mark: And how. But I wouldn't take nothin' for the journey...

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

Mark: Wow, hard to pick. "Someone to Watch Over Me," rendered by the beautiful and talented Jocelyn (Polly). She simply sparkles!

Q: What's your background in theatre?

Mark: College mainly, some grad school (Marshall University). I've enjoyed a few productions at ARTS, which I affectionately like to call home. The whole organization makes me feel right at home.

Q: If one of our readers is thinking about trying out for a show, what advice would you give them?

Mark: Go for it. I have many friends from my experience here.

Q: Why would you recommend this show? 

Mark: Triple threat fun. Singing,Acting, and Dancing

   Thanks, Mark!

   The musical Crazy for You will be staged at the Renaissance Theatre at 900 8th Street on Friday, Oct. 31 and Saturday, Nov. 1 at 8 p.m., and Sunday, Nov. 2 at 2 p.m. Tickets are $15 (dinner tickets are sold out).

Interview with the Director of "Crazy for You"

   We've had a couple of interviews with the cast of the musical Crazy for You (about which I've heard rave reviews), and we'll have more in the days ahead - but now, let's hear from the director of the show, Stephen Vance!

   He's a triple threat - not only is he a fine director and a talented actor - he's also one of the most knowledgable tech guys around!

   Here's Stephen: 

Q: For those not familiar with the show, tell us about Crazy for You.
Stephen: Crazy for You is the story of a young banker who want to be in a Broadway show. Everyone else has different plans for him. He ends up in Nevada to foreclose on an old theatre, but immediately falls in love and decides the best way to save the theatre is to put on a show. Showgirls, cowboys, mix-ups, and mayhem ensues all wrapped around the Gershwin's greatest tunes.

Q: Tell us about your work on the musical.

Stephen:  I've had the privilege to be the director of the show. I'm genuinely flattered that so many talented and hard working people have committed to this project. It really is a dream come true. This is a dance show, and not nearly enough can be said about the work Coni Anthony has done, she has indulged me over and over, and her creativity and ability to tell a story beautifully and so full of life is second to none. John Campbell has done the same thing on the music side of things. He has an infectious enthusiasm and a tremendous grasp of how to get the best out of singers. It is still mind boggling that I've been able to be a part of this team. I'm grateful.

Q: I understand this show required a lot of rehearsal.

Stephen:  We started up during "Much Ado" back in August. From the beginning, we knew we were getting into something that was bigger and more elaborate than normal. The first six weeks were nothing but music and dance rehearsals. The amazing thing about this cast is that no matter the challenge, they rose to it every time. By the end of the process, each cast member had spent well over 100 hours in rehearsal. However, it wasn't just the rehearsals that they poured themselves into. There were at least five weekends of work calls prior to tech week that everyone was part of in some capacity, whether it was costume building, set construction, scene painting, or some other crazy task we had to accomplish. We only have a handful of dedicated technicians for this show. The efforts of the crew and the cast have been outstanding and above and beyond the norm.

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

Stephen:  Every song in this show is special to me. I don't say that lightly. The arrangements of the music are designed in such a way to feature someone and something unique in every single number. Each has required a special focus both technically and from a performance standpoint. I could write paragraphs about every single number. The work that went into each, and the joy they all bring me is immeasurable. My goal starting this project was to feature all 21 cast members at least once each, and I think we pulled that off successfully.

Q: What's your background in theatre?

Stephen:  I started with Helen Freeman during Footloose in 2004 sweeping the straw off the backstage sidewalk. From there, I worked tech for a couple of shows, and eventually ended up in the chorus of Thoroughly Modern Millie in 2006. I've since been on stage and volunteered with HHS, First Church Dinner Theatre, First Stage, and Fifth Avenue. As ARTS has grown over the last few years, I found myself right in the middle of it, on stage and off. In 2009, I was given the opportunity to direct I Ought to Be in Pictures. Crazy for You is the fifth show I've directed and certainly the most ambitious. I can't overstate how grateful I am to work with ARTS, the board, the production team, the crew, and cast for this show.

Q: If one of our readers is thinking about trying out for a show, what advice would you give them?

Stephen:  Realize that it is going to be a lot of work. A lot. However, not one day goes by that you don't realize it is worth it.  

Q: Why would you recommend this show?  

Stephen:  I love it. It is as much fun as I have seen on stage ever. I love standing in the back of the house and watching people walk out with a smile on their face. It is that kind of show. Wonderful music, terrific choreography, a hilarious book. Mike and Jocelyn are dreams as leads. Mike, Joanna, and Dylan hit on every comedic and performance cylinder every night. Todd and Karen are like glue in their character roles. Amy, Tiffany, Sheila, Cyndi, Nora, and Jenn are stunning in every costume, every scene, every dance, and every vocal performance. Marc, Bill, Luke, Jason, Tristan, and Andrew add so much life and texture every single time they are on stage. Bil and Becky are perfect in their cameo roles. (I've fought the urge to go into great detail about everything I love about everyone in this show.) If you can't tell, I love this show and I really want everyone to get a chance to see it.

   Thanks, Stephen!

   The musical Crazy for You will be staged at the Renaissance Theatre at 900 8th Street on Friday, Oct. 31 and Saturday, Nov. 1 at 8 p.m., and Sunday, Nov. 2 at 2 p.m. Tickets are $15 (dinner tickets are sold out).

   

On Stage This Weekend

   Here's the rundown of shows taking the stage this weekend, courtesy of my pal Ryan Hardiman:

- Crazy for You (Musical)
Music by George Gershwin, Lyrics by Ira Gershwin, Book by Ken Ludwig
Arts Resources for the Tri State (ARTS)
Fri. - Sat., Oct. 24, 25, 31 and Nov. 1 at 8 p.m.
Sun., Oct. 26 and Nov. 2 at 2 p.m.
ARTS MainStage at 900 8th Street in Huntington
General Admission
$15 Show Only / $30 Dinner (reservations required) and show - call 304-733-2787

- Venus in Fur (Play)
by David Ives
Alban Arts and Conference Center
Fri. - Sat., Oct. 24 and 25 at 8 p.m. and Sun., Oct. 26 at 2 p.m.

Alban Arts and Conference Center at 65 Olde Main Plaza in St. Albans

Tickets are $15 Adults / $10 Students and Seniors
304-721-8896

- Evil Dead: The Musical
Book & Lyrics By George Reinblatt
Music By Frank Cipolla/Christopher Bond/Melissa Morris/George Reinblatt
Kanawha Players
Fri. - Sat., Oct. 24, 25, 31 and Nov. 1 at 8 p.m.
Kanawha Players Theater
309 Beauregard Street in Charleston
Tickets are $16 Adults / $10 Kids 17 and under / $10 Students with ID
Tickets: www.kanawhaplayers.org (304)343-PLAY (7529)
or at the door while tickets last.
*Parental discretion is advised & children under 16 will not be permitted without an adult*

- Hamlet (Play)
by William Shakespeare
American Shakespeare Center
A FestivALL Fall event
Fri., Oct. 24 at 7:30 p.m.
Scottish Rite Temple
406 Capitol Street in Charleston
Tickets are $20 Adults, $15 Seniors 65 and older and $10 for students and children, available at the door or in advance at Taylor Books (fee added)
Preshow begins at 7 p.m. - the actors entertain 30 minutes before the performance and during intermission, so plan to come early.

- One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest (Play)
by Dale Wasserman, with music by Teiji Ito. Based on the novel by Ken Kesey
Portsmouth Little Theatre
Fri. - Sat., Oct. 24, 25, 31 and Nov. 1 at 7:30 p.m.
Portsmouth Little Theatre
1117 Lawson Street in Portsmouth, Ohio
Tickets are $12 Adults / $10 Senior/Student
740.353.7034 pltlive.com

- Your Swash is Unbuckled (Stage combat plays)
by Jeff Goode
Lincoln County High School Theatre
Fri. - Sat., Oct 24 and 25 at 7 p.m.
81 Lincoln Panther Way in Hamlin
$10 Adults / $5 Students

- War of the Worlds (Live action radio show)
Jackson County Players
Fri. - Sat., Oct. 24 and 25 at 7 p.m.
Matinee Sun., Oct. 26 at 2 p.m.
The Alpine Theatre
107 Main St West in Ripley
All tickets $10

- A Murderous Match Game (Interactive Murder Dinner Party)
Murder and Merriment
Fri. - Sat., Oct. 24 - 25 at 7 p.m.
The Greenhouse of Teays Valley in Hurricane
Tickets $40
Reservations Required: 304-397-6316

   So get out there and support your community theatre!

Interview #2 with the Cast of "Crazy for You"

   Here’s the second in our series of interviews with the cast of Crazy for You, the Gershwin musical that opens this weekend at the Renaissance Theatre (the old Huntington High School).

   Today let’s hear from the lovely and talented Jocelyn Clark-Knapp, who plays an All-American Girl:

Q: For those not familiar with the show, tell us about Crazy for You.

Jocelyn: Between Ira and George Gershwin’s lyrics/music and Ken Ludwig’s writing, this musical offers something for everyone. While Bobby Child chases his dream to be a Broadway star, his mother is determined to keep him in banking. During a work assignment to foreclose on a theater in a rundown town in Deadrock, Nevada, Bobby meets and falls for Polly Baker. Instead of foreclosing on the theater he decides he could try to help save the theater and town. Saving a rundown theater and winning the girl of his dreams is not a one man job.  With the help of his Showgirl friends from New York City, two worlds collide to make some of the most memorable and exciting show stopping numbers in musical theater.

Q: Tell us about the character you play.

Jocelyn: I am honored to play Polly Baker, the “All American Girl” from Deadrock, Nevada. Polly is a headstrong cowgirl who makes a living delivering mail and keeping the lazy town of Deadrock awake. She lost her mother and is now the only female within miles of town. Polly secretly longs to find her special someone but wouldn’t ever admit to it, until she meets Bella Zangler. Before New York City and Bobby’s visit to Deadrock, I don’t think she even realizes what love could be. 

Q: I understand this show required a lot of rehearsal.

Jocelyn: I am a member of ARTS Resident Acting Company. Last year when I received the offer to play Polly Baker I couldn’t wait to get started. I have been humming along to these songs since January and will probably be singing them long after the final curtain drops. Coni Anthony, our choreographer, challenged me from day one with dance steps and now I can proudly say I can do a triple time step (fancy tapper talk for “lots of noise at one time with my taps”). Along with singing and dancing, this role has pushed me to think beyond a traditional character role and into the life of Polly Baker. I couldn’t be more honored to be part of this production.

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

Jocelyn: This is such a hard question because each song/dance has such a special place for me within the show. But my favorite song/dance in the show is the first full number with Bobby and Polly, “Could You Use Me/Shall We Dance.” It is one of the first numbers we choreographed and has been a great experience from day one. Not only do you get to see both characters and their beginning feelings for each other but you also hear the fun upbeat carefree spirit of Gershwin’s music.

Q: What's your background in theatre?

Jocelyn: I am a current ARTS Resident Member. I played Mazy this past spring in “The Boyfriend” and was a Showgirl in our “Much Ado About Nothing” production. I have played Rosemary in “How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying” and The Favorite in “Will Rogers Follies.” In high school I was bitten by the theater bug and have participated in several community theater productions over the last 10 years.

Q: If one of our readers is thinking about trying out for a show, what advice would you give them?

Jocelyn: Go for it! Your audition pieces don’t have to be overly technical, but show your best efforts. Directors holding auditions for a show want you to be successful and want participants, so show them what you got! Being nervous to sing, act, or dance for someone is normal, but they aren’t there to tear you down. The more auditions you do, the better you become.

 

Q: Why would you recommend this show?

Jocelyn: It seems to me this show has it all: classic music, amusing dialogue, and fantastic dance numbers. One of the most important things this show – and most shows from ARTS have – is the cast.  As an audience member you will be able to see the love for theater from every person on stage. We are a close knit group who genuinely cares for each other and you will be able to see that too. It is a family friendly show for all ages and guaranteed to keep you at the edge of your seat the entire performance. There hasn’t EVER been a better time to be at ARTS – Won’t You Join Us?

   Thanks, Jocelyn!

The musical Crazy for You will be staged at the Renaissance Theatre at 900 8th Street on Oct. 24, 25, 31 and Nov. 1 at 8 p.m., and Oct. 26 and Nov. 2 at 2 p.m. Tickets are $15 for the show, and $30 for dinner and the show - to make dinner reservations, call 304-733-2787.

Interview #1 with the Cast of "Crazy for You"

   The musical Crazy for You takes the stage this weekend in Huntington, so it's time for some interviews and comments from the cast!

   First up is the lovely and talented Cyndi Fuller!

Q: For those not familiar with the show, tell us about Crazy for You.

Cyndi:  Crazy for You is about a banker named Bobby Child. All he wants to do is dance, but his money hungry mother sends him to Nevada to foreclose on a poor, rundown theater. Of course he immediately falls in love with the only girl in Deadrock. What ensues is a series of lies delightfully covered up by singing cowboys and dancing showgirls. It seems like your typical Broadway love story, but I promise you: it's not.

Q: Tell us about the character you play.

Cyndi:  I'm part of the Zangler Follies. I thought this would be an "easy chorus" role where I was a blip on the stage for a short time here and there. I was so mistaken! Each character in the show must bring everything they have to the table for the story line to work. We're all onstage as a unit. Without the "background" characters like me Crazy for You is just a bunch of bango-bingo.

Q: I understand this show required a lot of rehearsal.

Cyndi:  You. Have. No. Idea. From the first rehearsal, we have been charging at this show full force. Singing. Dancing. Acting. Not only have we been working our triple threat skills, we've been giving our all to help make the show happen. Set builds. Painting. Sewing. When we aren't rehearsing, we're working as a team to make the show the best it can possibly be in all aspects.

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

Cyndi:  "Slap That Bass" is the most fun I've had on stage in years. It's so upbeat, and you can feel the energy radiating from the cast. Thinking about it makes me so happy and excited, I can't think straight!

Q: What's your background in theater?

Cyndi:  Tons of children's theatre. I took a break to pursue competitive dancing but came out of retirement for ARTs last show (Much Ado About Nothing). Let me tell you: I sure did pick a great time to come back. Crazy for You is going to be a show that the theater community remembers for a long time, and I'm so thankful I get to be part of it.

Q: If one of our readers is thinking about trying out for a show, what advice would you give them?

Cyndi: Just go for it! The last two shows I've done have had first time actors, and they did amazing. You have so many resources available in the Tri-State it would be silly to not try! Go to a workshop. See a show. Talk to directors and actors. Put on your dancing shoes. Watch your spirits climb.

Q: Why would you recommend this show?

Cyndi: I'm jealous I don't get to see it! Everyone has worked so hard. The set is amazing. The costumes are fabulous. The choreography is out of this world. The vocals will blow you away. This is one of the biggest productions to come across the ARTs stage. If you don't see it, you're K-RA-ZY! 

   Thanks, Cyndi!

   The musical Crazy for You will be staged at the Renaissance Theatre at 900 8th Street on Oct. 24, 25, 31 and Nov. 1 at 8 p.m., and Oct. 26 and Nov. 2 at 2 p.m. Tickets are $15 for the show, and $30 for dinner and the show - to make dinner reservations, call 304-733-2787.

On Stage This Weekend: "Crazy for You"

   ARTS has a terrific musical taking the stage this weekend - the Gershwin musical Crazy for You!

  Here's everything you need to know:

   Arts Resources for the Tri-State presents Crazy for You, the New Gershwin Musical Comedy, by Ken Ludwig. The show runs October 24, 25, 26, 31, November 1, 2. 

   Songs from the show include: I Got Rhythm, Shall We Dance, Nice Work If You Can Get It, Someone to Watch Over Me, and more classic Gershwin Tunes. 

   The show features comedy, tap-dancing, and wonderful music - all of which make Crazy for You a must see show this Fall!

   Online Tickets now available! Click here to purchase: http://www.artstristate.org/#!current-production/cb3i

   Tickets for the show only are $15. Dinner and Show: $30 - for dinner reservation you must call 304-733-2787.

   Directed by Stephen Vance
   Choreographed by Constance Anthony
   Musical Direction by John W. Campbell

   Cast:
Michael Naglee - Bobby Child
Jocelyn Clark Knapp - Polly Baker
Amy Knell Carlson - Tess
Tiffany Caldwell Trent - Patsy
Sheila Meade - Sheila
Nora Joseph Ankrom - Betsy
Jenn Naglee - Mitzi
Cyndi Mac Fuller - Louise
Marcus Albert - Sam
Luke Matlock - Mingo
Bill Stambaugh - Moose
Jason D. Roach - Jimmy
Tristan Reynolds - Custus
Andrew Surber - Junior
Dylan M. Clark - Lank Hawkins
Joanna Berner - Irene
Mike Murdock - Bela Zangler
Todd L Green - Everett Baker
Karen Kelly Pruitt - Lottie Child
Bil Neal - Eugene Fodor
Becky Tippett McClelland - Patricia Fodor

Huntington is Named "Certified Arts Community"

   Hey, they made a major announcement this week about Huntington - here's the press release from the city's website:

   Mayor Steve Williams announced Tuesday that the City of Huntington has been named as a Certified Arts Community by the West Virginia Commission on the Arts.

   In receiving the designation, Huntington joins a select few communities across the state that have been recognized for capitalizing on the impact that the arts have on economic development, education, civic involvement and quality of life.

   “The WVCA recognizes the importance of cooperation between arts and humanities groups, business leaders and jurisdictional agencies,” Renee Margocee, director of arts for the West Virginia Division of Culture and History, wrote in her letter notifying Huntington officials of the designation. “Your efforts to encourage a full and vibrant artistic community in Huntington were clearly evident in your very strong application.”

   Williams said Huntington has always been a flourishing arts community as evidenced by its long-established arts institutions and their cultural offerings which Tri-State residents continue to support. The next decade will see unprecedented growth in the arts with additions such as Marshall University’s Visual Arts Center and Cabell County Schools’ expeditionary learning school.

   Being recognized as a Certified Arts Community adds to ongoing local efforts to unify resources and promotes more collaboration, Williams said. He cited the recent establishment of the Mayor’s Council for the Arts as a prime example of these efforts.

   “The arts have sustained us all in days of peril and have enabled us to soar to unexpected heights during days of jubilance,” Williams said. “The fact that our city is now a certified Arts Community validates the artistic endeavors of all our citizens. The Mayor’s Council for the Arts will seek to advocate and celebrate our artistic passions in such a fashion that will enable our entire community to mutually prosper.”

   Margaret Mary Layne, executive director of the Huntington Museum of Art, said the decision to apply for the designation led to the formation of the Huntington Arts Summit. The Summit was the first initiative that brought together various arts organizations as a cohesive group, she said.

   “While Huntington has long been an arts community, there is a flourishing creativity that has occurred here in the past several years that has enhanced the long-standing contributions of the Marshall Artists Series, the Huntington Symphony Orchestra and the Huntington Museum of Art,” Layne said. “Creativity is the buzz word for the future in every aspect of our lives. Huntington has creativity in spades.”

   Tyson Compton, executive director of the Cabell-Huntington Convention and Visitors Bureau, said the application process brought to light the full scope of arts resources that Huntington has to offer. The CVB will use this designation as another tool in promoting the arts and culture scene to visitors, he said.

   “One of the next steps that I see is to have an ‘Experience the Arts’ page on the CVB website that will highlight each venue, performance and exhibit that will serve to entice visitors and reinforce locally that the arts are a vibrant part of our mix,” Compton said. “I’m very excited about where this will lead us next.”

On Stage This Weekend - "Venus in Fur"

   Taking the stage this weekend in St. Albans is a play that's edgy and adult - Venus in Fur.

   Power shifts back and forth between a man and a woman - a director and an actress, a dominant and a submissive, perhaps even a mortal and an otherworldly force - in David Ives' Venus in Fur. 

   Playwright Thomas Novachek is at a loss. There are simply no actresses talented enough to play his leading lady. Then in walks Vanda, a mysterious siren with the uncanny ability to inhabit his character. She's sexy and full of surprises. 

   He's not as much in control as he thinks he is. All bets are off when the audition quickly escalates into a seductive power play. With loads of cheek and a hint of the erotic, Venus in Fur keeps you on the edge of your seat as you question "who is really in charge here?"

   Packed with smart, intense and edgily comic interchanges about sex roles, sexual politics and, well, sex, there’s little doubt about why Ives' compact 2011 Broadway hit has become the most-produced play of the current season.

   Starring Rob Boone and Marlette Carter. Directed by Greg Morris.

   Shows will be presented on Oct. 17, 18, 24 and 25 at 8 p.m., and Oct. 19 and 26 at 2 p.m.

   Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for seniors and students. For more information, visit this website.

   The play contains mature language and themes - parental discretion is advised. 

Tri-State Youth Orchestra's Fall Concerts

   The Tri-State Youth Orchestra String section will present their annual Fall Concert on October 19 at 7 p.m. in the Ballroom at ARTS Renaissance Center. This is the kickoff concert for the 18th season for the orchestra. This season you'll hear selections form Beethoven and Dvorak. Doors open at 6:30. Admission is $5 for adults, students 12 and under are free. For more information contact Ron Caviani attsyo@aol.com.

 

   The Tri-State Youth Orchestra will host auditions for vacancies in the wind brass and percussion section on Oct. 23 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. in the basement of ARTS Renaissance Center at 900 8th Street in Huntington. Students should know their scales, have a prepared piece and be ready to sight read. The orchestra reheases Thursdays from 6:30 to 9 p.m. and performs four to five concerts during each season. For more information contact Ron Caviani at tsyo@aol.com.

 

   The Cabell County String Orchestra will present their annual Halloween Concert on Oct. 28 at 7 p.m. in the Cabell Midland High School auditorium. This concert features music from the holiday season and combines both Huntington High School and Cabell Midland High School orchestras. Area middle school orchestra students will also perform with the orchestra for a combined performance. This year the high school theme is "Evil Eye and Hideous Heart" from Edgar Allan Poe's Tell-Tale Heart.  For more information contact Ron Caviani at rcaviani@k12.wv.us or 304-743-7425. 

On Stage This Weekend

   There are four great shows taking the stage this weekend - three based on classic stories, and one based on a classic cartoon! Here's the list:

- The Adventures of Tom Sawyer - Marshall University's Theatre Alliance presents the classic story by Mark Twain, adapted by Laura Eason, at The Joan C. Edwards Playhouse on
Oct. 9 - 11 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $20 for adults and $15 for children 12 and under. Call 304-696-2787 for more information. 

- Wonderland High - Huntington High School's Theatre Department presents this new play - this is the first time it has been staged anywhere. It'll be presented at the Huntington High Auditorium on Oct. 9, 10 and 11 at 7:30 p.m., and Oct. 12 at 3 p.m.

- Schoolhouse Rock Live! Jr. - Children's Theater of Charleston presents the musical Oct. 10 - 11 at 7 p.m. and Oct. 11 - 12 at 2 p.m. at the Civic Center Little Theater at 200 Civic Center Drive in Charleston. Tickets are $13 for adults and $11 for students ages 4 - 18. For more information, call 304-741-9099.

- The Dracula Spectacula - Appalachian Community Theatres present the musical on Oct 10, 11 and 12 at 7 p.m. at the Mountain Homeplace "In The Pines" Amphitheater at 445 Kentucky Route 172 in Staffordsville, Ky. Tickets are $5.

   So get out there and support your community theatre!

"Wonderland High"

   Huntington High School's Theatre Department has a special show coming up this weekend! The school was selected to present the premiere performance of the new musical Wonderland High.

   The play, which is loosely connected to the classic Alice in Wonderland story, has never been presented before. Huntington High, under the guidance of director Helen Freeman and music director Mark Smith, was selected to tackle this show. 

   Representatives from Music Theatre International will attend the performance to evaluate the show for future licensing and presentation.

   It's a real challenge to tackle a show like this - one that's never been staged before - and audiences get to see the final result of weeks of rehearsal this weekend.

   It'll be presented at the Huntington High Auditorium on Oct. 9, 10 and 11 at 7:30 p.m., and Oct. 12 at 3 p.m. Tickets are $5 for students and $7 for adults.

   Don't miss it!

ARTS to Hold Resident Company Auditions

   ARTS has announced its Resident Company Auditions for its 2015 season!

   ARTS will be continuing its ground-breaking reinvention of how community theatre works with both its third full season (with seven shows) and its third year of auditions for the ARTS Resident Company! These auditions will be held on Saturday, Nov. 1, 2014, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday, Nov. 9, from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.

   At these auditions, you will need to prepare a monologue (classical or contemporary / dramatic or comedic - it should be memorized. Show us your best work.), at least 16 bars of a song to sing (there are lots of difficult musicals this year, and we need to hear your range - again, bring your "A" game), be prepared to do some basic movement / dance with Coni Anthony to see how well you can move, and have an interview with some of the directors and choreographers for the upcoming season. The directors for the current season are: Mike Murdock, Stephen Vance, Bil Neal, Amy Carlson, Leah Turley, Gene Anthony and the Resident Choreographer is Coni Anthony.

   There will be an accompanist provided to play your music. Please bring it with you. If you have to sing a capella, you may, but you will still be asked to run scales with the accompanist.

   Monologues and songs may be of any length, just be aware you have approximately 15 minutes in your audition slot for the monologue, song and interview with the directors. A 1 to 2 minute monologue and 16 bars of a song are standard. Show us your very best work. Dress appropriately for an audition and to move a little.

   You need not bring shoes / dance attire to change into, but you can if you wish. The movement will be just that - seeing how well you can move.

   There is no certain number of Company members we are looking for at this time. Offers will be made to everyone that the directors think can fit into at least four shows in the seven show season.

   You may call for an audition spot on either date listed above. Each audition spot is approximately 15 minutes. Those interested in auditioning should contact Nora Ankrom by Facebook message, e-mail Nora.ankrom@hotmail.com, or by phone call / text at 304-544-1319, to get a time slot reserved on either available audition day, whichever works best for you.

The seven-show, 2015 ARTS Season:

Our Town - directed by Stephen Vance - January 30, 31, February 1, 6, 7, 8 (Ballroom)

Company - directed by Amy Carlson - March 20, 21, 22, 27, 28 (Ballroom)

Fuddy Meers - directed by Mike Murdock - May 8, 9, 15, 16 (Ballroom)

Into The Woods - directed by Bil Neal - June 19, 20, 21, 26, 27, 28 (Mainstage)

Medea - directed by Leah Turley - August 14, 15, 21, 22, 28, 29 (Mainstage)

Brigadoon - directed by Gene & Coni Anthony - October 9, 10, 11, 16, 17, 18 (Mainstage)

ARTS New Works Festival - managed by Mike Murdock - December 4, 5, 11, 12 (all over ARTS)

 

   For more information about company, the commitment, and the benefits, go to:

https://www.facebook.com/artstristate/photos/a.436076293110170.111858.133778813339921/789651741085955/?type=1&relevant_count=1

 

On Stage in October

   With October we get lots of great shows hitting local stages, everything from beloved classics to groundbreaking new works.

   Here's the rundown:

- Crazy for You - ARTS presents the musical by George and Ira Gershwin on Oct. 24, 25 and Oct. 31, Nov. 1 at 8 p.m., and Oct. 26 and Nov. 2 at 2 p.m. Shows will be presented at the Renaissance Theatre at 900 8th Street in Huntington, Tickets are $15 Show Only and $30 Dinner and show - reservations required for dinner. Call 304-733-2787.

- The Adventures of Tom Sawyer - Marshall University's Theatre Alliance presents the classic story by Mark Twain, adapted by Laura Eason, at The Joan C. Edwards Playhouse on
Oct. 8 - 11 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $20 for adults and $15 for children 12 and under. Call 304-696-2787 for more information. 

- Wonderland High - Huntington High School's Theatre Department presents this new play - this is the first time it has been staged anywhere. It'll be presented at the Huntington High Auditorium on Oct. 9, 10 and 11 at 7:30 p.m., and Oct. 12 at 3 p.m.

 - Fiddler on the Roof - The Charleston Light Opera Guild with The Clay Center present the beloved musical Oct. 31, Nov. 1, 7 and 8 at 7:30 p.m. and Oct. 9 at 2 p.m. at the Clay Center for the Arts and Sciences at One Clay Square in Charleston. Tickets are $25 - call the box office at 304-561-3570.

- School Girl Zombies from Hell High - Contemporary Youth Arts Company (CYAC) presents the original musical, with music by Mark Scarpelli, book and lyrics by Dan Kehde, Oct. 2 - 4 at 8 p.m. at the WVSU Capitol Center Theater at 123 Summers Street in Charleston. Tickets are $15 for adults and $8 for students and seniors. Call 304-342-6522.

- Schoolhouse Rock Live! Jr. - Children's Theater of Charleston presents the musical Oct. 10 - 11 at 7 p.m. and Oct. 11 - 12 at 2 p.m. at the Civic Center Little Theater at 200 Civic Center Drive in Charleston. Tickets are $13 for adults and $11 for students ages 4 - 18. For more information, call 304-741-9099.

- Venus in Fur - the Alban Arts and Conference Center presents the play by David Ives Oct. 17, 18, 24 and 25 at 8 p.m., and Oct. 19 and 26 at 2 p.m. at the Alban Arts and Conference Center at 65 Olde Main Plaza in St. Albans, W.Va. Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for students and seniors. Call 304-721-8896.

- Evil Dead: The Musical - the Kanawha Players present the horror musical by George Reinblatt, Frank Cipolla, Christopher Bond, Melissa Morris and George Reinblatt on Oct. 17, 18, 24 and 25, and Oct. 31 and Nov. 1 at 8 p.m. at the Kanawha Players Theater at 309 Beauregard Street in Charleston. Tickets are $16 for adults, $10 for kids age 17 and under, and $10 for students with ID. Call 304-343-PLAY (7529). (Parental discretion is advised and children under 16 will not be permitted without an adult.)

-  One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest - Portsmouth Little Theatre presents the play by Dale Wasserman, with music by Teiji Ito, based on the novel by Ken Kesey, on Oct. 24, 25, 31 and Nov. 1. The play will be presented at the Portsmouth Little Theatre at 1117 Lawson Street in Portsmouth, Ohio. Tickets are $12 for adults and $10 for seniors and students. Call 740-353-7034.

- Beyond The Horizon - Shawnee State University presents the play by Eugene O'Neil on Oct. 2, 3 and 4 at 7:30 p.m. at the Vern Riffe Center for the Arts at 940 Second Street in Portsmouth, Ohio. Tickets are $10 for adults, $3 for students and $8 for faculty and staff. Call 740-351-3600.

 - Moonlight and Magnolias - Actors Guild of Parkersburg present the play by Ron Hutchinson on Oct. 3, 4, 10 and 11 at 8 p.m. and Oct. 5 at 2:30 p.m. at 724 Market Street in Parkersburg, W.Va. Tickets are $15 for adults and $13 for seniors and students. Call 304-485-1300. (Allergen Warning: Real peanuts will be used on stage. Peanut shells and dust may accompany. Take precautions if necessary.)

 - Make 'em Laugh - Jiral Productions presents the play by Adam Tanner on Oct. 4 at 7:30 p.m. at the  Landmark Studios at 402 Main Street in Sutton, W.Va. Call 304-641-5422.

- The Dracula Spectacula - Appalachian Community Theatres present the musical on Oct 10, 11 and 12 at 7 p.m. at the Mountain Homeplace "In The Pines" Amphitheater at 445 Kentucky Route 172 in Staffordsville, Ky. Tickets are $5

- Murderous Match Game LIVE! -  Murder and Merriment present the interactive murder dinner party on Oct. 24 and 25 at 7 p.m. at The Greenhouse of Teays Valley in Hurricane, W.Va. Tickets are $40, and reservations are required. Call 304-397-6316.

   Whew! So get out there and support your community theatre!