For the final night of the New Works Fest 2007, we have the presentation of an original musical based on the life of Huntington's founder. Collis P!, written by Clint McElroy, follows Mr. Huntington from his early years through to the end of his life, as he carves his niche in history as a true mover and shaker. It's a fascinating, funny and touching journey (trust me - bring a handkerchief).
The show includes new songs written by Clint and Mountain Stage's Larry Groce, and there will be a band performing the songs tonight.
But unlike most of you - I've seen the show before. Several years ago, Clint brought together a group of his theatre friends to do a read-through of the first draft of the show, and I can tell you that it was a moving experience, and a wonderful show. I can't wait to see how the musical has been changed in the years since, and I look forward to the day that we see this show performed on stage in a finished form.
In the meantime, I recommend making your way to Marshall's Joan C. Edwards Performing Arts Center tonight at 8:00 p.m. as the history of Huntington (the city and the man) comes alive in Collis P!
Saturday, June 30, 2007
New Works Fest in Review
I managed to catch the first two nights of the New Works Fest so far, and I've really enjoyed it.Basically, the Fest features new works read aloud by actors with no sets, props or special costumes - you get to hear the original written work unfiltered. It's interesting to note that you quickly overlook (or forget) that the actors are reading as the story unfolds. Here's a quick recap of the Festival so far:
The first night featured three new one-act plays. The first was Wedding Bells by Adriana Echeverri, a clever short play that focused on the fears of a bride-to-be just before she walked down the aisle. Adding to her anxiety is her maid of honor, an ascerbic sister-in-law-to-be. Clever and fun, though a few rough spots to be worked out.
The second one-act play was Interrogation by M. A. Cantrell. It was the toughest to sell to the crowd, because it tackled a very serious subject - the ethics of torture. That's not an easy subject to cover in a short period of time, but it was effective, in no small part because of the fine work of the three actors.
The final one-act play was Lunch At the Fork n’ Finger by Marshall University Theatre alumni Jonathan Joy. It told the story of a man who goes to a restaurant to meet his mother and her new love interest - his former high school gym coach. It was very funny, told in the style of a Woody Allen film. In fact, it really seemed more suited to film, given the main character's asides to the audience, which forced the other characters to freeze in place. Still, a very funny play, and another strong outing by the prolific Joy.
Last night the audience heard a new screenplay: Serious Business by professional actor/director T. Michael Murdock. It told the humorous story of a team trying to shoot a film despite a never-ending series of mishaps and blunders. To keep the movie going, they turn to a local gangster for funding - and then things get worse. It sets up a group of likable (if clumsy) filmmakers, adds lots of entertaining characters, hilarious situations and an improbable planned heist (criminal masterminds these characters aren't). Oh, and lots of profanity (not that there's anything wrong with that). It's a very funny script, and someday, hopefully, it'll make a very funny movie. I do have one bit of constructive criticism for Mike (that's right, Murdock, I'm talking to you - I see you out there glaring at your computer screen with that hideous Yankees cap on). I suspect when Mike wrote this movie he had in mind putting together a low-budget comedy that could be shot locally - and if so, he succeeded - it's very funny but staged in such a way that it would be (relatively) easy to shoot cheaply and quickly without hurting the story or losing any laughs. However, if he wants to sell it to a major studio, he may need to rework it a bit to make it "bigger" (in other words, make some minor changes without worrying about breaking the budget). Otherwise, a very funny script - I think this kid's got what it takes.
Tonight - well, I'll talk about that in the next post.
The first night featured three new one-act plays. The first was Wedding Bells by Adriana Echeverri, a clever short play that focused on the fears of a bride-to-be just before she walked down the aisle. Adding to her anxiety is her maid of honor, an ascerbic sister-in-law-to-be. Clever and fun, though a few rough spots to be worked out.
The second one-act play was Interrogation by M. A. Cantrell. It was the toughest to sell to the crowd, because it tackled a very serious subject - the ethics of torture. That's not an easy subject to cover in a short period of time, but it was effective, in no small part because of the fine work of the three actors.
The final one-act play was Lunch At the Fork n’ Finger by Marshall University Theatre alumni Jonathan Joy. It told the story of a man who goes to a restaurant to meet his mother and her new love interest - his former high school gym coach. It was very funny, told in the style of a Woody Allen film. In fact, it really seemed more suited to film, given the main character's asides to the audience, which forced the other characters to freeze in place. Still, a very funny play, and another strong outing by the prolific Joy.
Last night the audience heard a new screenplay: Serious Business by professional actor/director T. Michael Murdock. It told the humorous story of a team trying to shoot a film despite a never-ending series of mishaps and blunders. To keep the movie going, they turn to a local gangster for funding - and then things get worse. It sets up a group of likable (if clumsy) filmmakers, adds lots of entertaining characters, hilarious situations and an improbable planned heist (criminal masterminds these characters aren't). Oh, and lots of profanity (not that there's anything wrong with that). It's a very funny script, and someday, hopefully, it'll make a very funny movie. I do have one bit of constructive criticism for Mike (that's right, Murdock, I'm talking to you - I see you out there glaring at your computer screen with that hideous Yankees cap on). I suspect when Mike wrote this movie he had in mind putting together a low-budget comedy that could be shot locally - and if so, he succeeded - it's very funny but staged in such a way that it would be (relatively) easy to shoot cheaply and quickly without hurting the story or losing any laughs. However, if he wants to sell it to a major studio, he may need to rework it a bit to make it "bigger" (in other words, make some minor changes without worrying about breaking the budget). Otherwise, a very funny script - I think this kid's got what it takes.
Tonight - well, I'll talk about that in the next post.
300!
Tomorrow morning I'll have a recap of the New Works Fest so far (including short reviews of the works presented), and I'll preview tomorrow night's presentation of Collis P! (and I'll tell you the secret behind its first reading more than two years ago).
But first, I have to share a milestone that doesn't matter to anyone but me. This is post #300 for your humble Tri-State Theatre blog, which has been around just shy of nine months, or about 270 days - so we've managed just over a post a day! Like I always say, a bargain at twice the price!
Thanks for reading and writing along - we have lots of fun stuff coming up, so add us to your "Favorites" list and stay tuned!
But first, I have to share a milestone that doesn't matter to anyone but me. This is post #300 for your humble Tri-State Theatre blog, which has been around just shy of nine months, or about 270 days - so we've managed just over a post a day! Like I always say, a bargain at twice the price!
Thanks for reading and writing along - we have lots of fun stuff coming up, so add us to your "Favorites" list and stay tuned!
Friday, June 29, 2007
On Stage Tonight - New Works Festival (Day 2)
A (surprisingly) large crowd turned out last night to enjoy three new one-act plays in the first night of the New Works Festival. More on that later, but here's a reminder that you have two more chances to take part in this celebration.
Tonight you can see a new screenplay, Serious Business, written by T. Michael Murdock. My inside sources tell me it's a hilarious comedy and it'll make a terrific film when someone in Hollywood wises up and gets around to filming it. You can have bragging rights over your friends by hearing it performed tonight by a small army of actors. After the show, Mike will be there to take comments from the audience.
It takes the stage tonight at 8:00 p.m. in the Experimental Theater at Marshall University's Joan C. Edwards Performing Arts Center. I advise getting there a bit early to find a seat - it might get crowded in there.
Saturday night you can catch a new musical, Collis P!, written by Clint McElroy with new songs written by Mountain Stage’s Larry Groce.
For further information or to purchase tickets, visit the Marshall University Theatre box office or call 696-ARTS (2787). Tickets are a steal at $5.00.
Update: By the way, you can see some photos from Thursday night's performance at the Herald-Dispatch Photo Galleries, or go here and click on the link at the right. The photos were taken by Chris Harris.
Tonight you can see a new screenplay, Serious Business, written by T. Michael Murdock. My inside sources tell me it's a hilarious comedy and it'll make a terrific film when someone in Hollywood wises up and gets around to filming it. You can have bragging rights over your friends by hearing it performed tonight by a small army of actors. After the show, Mike will be there to take comments from the audience.
It takes the stage tonight at 8:00 p.m. in the Experimental Theater at Marshall University's Joan C. Edwards Performing Arts Center. I advise getting there a bit early to find a seat - it might get crowded in there.
Saturday night you can catch a new musical, Collis P!, written by Clint McElroy with new songs written by Mountain Stage’s Larry Groce.
For further information or to purchase tickets, visit the Marshall University Theatre box office or call 696-ARTS (2787). Tickets are a steal at $5.00.
Update: By the way, you can see some photos from Thursday night's performance at the Herald-Dispatch Photo Galleries, or go here and click on the link at the right. The photos were taken by Chris Harris.
Thursday, June 28, 2007
On Stage Tonight - New Works Festival (Day 1)
Taking the stage tonight at 8:00 p.m. is the New Works Fest 2007 in the Experimental Theater at Marshall University's Joan C. Edwards Performing Arts Center.
Tonight, three new one-act plays will be presented: Wedding Bells by Adriana Echeverri, Interrogation by M. A. Cantrell and Lunch At the Fork n’ Finger by Jonathan Joy.
Coming up Friday, June 29, they'll present a new screenplay: Serious Business by T. Michael Murdock.
Then on Saturday, June 30, a new musical: Collis P!, written by Clint McElroy with new songs written by Mountain Stage’s Larry Groce.
For further information or to purchase tickets, visit the Marshall University Theatre box office or call 696-ARTS (2787). Tickets are priced at $5 per evening or a full festival pass (all three nights) at $12.
Tonight, three new one-act plays will be presented: Wedding Bells by Adriana Echeverri, Interrogation by M. A. Cantrell and Lunch At the Fork n’ Finger by Jonathan Joy.
Coming up Friday, June 29, they'll present a new screenplay: Serious Business by T. Michael Murdock.
Then on Saturday, June 30, a new musical: Collis P!, written by Clint McElroy with new songs written by Mountain Stage’s Larry Groce.
For further information or to purchase tickets, visit the Marshall University Theatre box office or call 696-ARTS (2787). Tickets are priced at $5 per evening or a full festival pass (all three nights) at $12.
Wednesday, June 27, 2007
The Discussion Goes On
The discussion thread that began as a debate about censorship in community theatre has grown into a discussion about what people would like to see on stage locally, and the possible need for a new theatre group. You can join the discussion, which is up to an amazing 33 comments, right here.
Update: Now it's up to 35 comments, and the last two (from Ryan Hardiman and Mike Murdock) have brought up some amazing ideas. Join in, y'all!
Another update: Mark and Paul join in, and we're up to 38 comments!
Still more: 42 and counting!
Update: Now it's up to 35 comments, and the last two (from Ryan Hardiman and Mike Murdock) have brought up some amazing ideas. Join in, y'all!
Another update: Mark and Paul join in, and we're up to 38 comments!
Still more: 42 and counting!
New Works Festival - Clint McElroy Speaks!
The New Works Fest is just a day away, so here's the last of our email interviews. This time around we hear from Clint McElroy, who I'd describe as an incredibly talented writer, actor and director, even if he wasn't such a good friend. Here's what he had to say about the musical he wrote called Collis P!
Q: Give us a quick recap of your work that's being presented.
A: I started out about a decade or so ago, wanting to write a musical based on the history of Huntington. I figured the best place to start would be researching the man who built the town, Collis P. Huntington. I came across so many great stories, so many fascinating details about him, I realized I had enough material for a show JUST about Collis. So, what we have is his story, from birth to grave. The man lived a jam-packed life... he was involved in just about everything of importance that happened in the century. It's a two-hour time machine...with songs about giant skeeters.
Q: How does a festival like this benefit you as a writer?
A: As a writer you tend to get a bit insulated... especially if no one knows you're writing. The workshop process has been invaluable to me, because the people who have been working on "Collis" in the rehearsals are some of the most talented people I have ever met, and their opinions have been vital to the final product. This is a much different play than the one we started with a few months ago. And just as important for me has been to hear what Larry Groce has done with the lyrics I created. It's a once-in-a-lifetime feeling to hear someone sing and play words you've written.
Q: What does it mean for you to present this through MU's Dept. of Theatre?
A: Let's face it, MUTD provides a level of creative excellence that can't be duplicated in our area. They have the best facilities, and the best people around. I also admire their guts in trotting out five brand new, unknown productions.
Q: Why would you say to the person reading this to convince them to see this performance?
A: If you come see this, you are going to see some of the best performers I have ever worked with, creating something brand new. You are going to hear a couple of amazing tunes by Larry Groce. You are going to learn a few things about a truly remarkable figure in American history. And you are going to laugh at a few jokes. And if it some day is a big hit, you'll be able to sell your playbill on Ebay. In summation: If you like it... I thank you with all my heart. If you DON'T like it, then I blame the director, Jack Cirillo.
Thanks, Clint! (Dang, I forgot to ask him about the exclamation point in the title.)
Once again, here's the schedule for the event:
Thursday, June 28, three new one-act plays will be presented: Wedding Bells by Adriana Echeverri, Interrogation by M. A. Cantrell and Lunch At the Fork n’ Finger by Jonathan Joy.
Friday, June 29, a new screenplay: Serious Business by T. Michael Murdock.
Saturday, June 30, a new musical: Collis P!, written by Clint McElroy with new songs written by Mountain Stage’s Larry Groce.
For further information or to purchase tickets, visit the Marshall University Theatre box office or call 696-ARTS (2787). Tickets are priced at $5 per evening or a full festival pass (all three nights) at $12.
Q: Give us a quick recap of your work that's being presented.
A: I started out about a decade or so ago, wanting to write a musical based on the history of Huntington. I figured the best place to start would be researching the man who built the town, Collis P. Huntington. I came across so many great stories, so many fascinating details about him, I realized I had enough material for a show JUST about Collis. So, what we have is his story, from birth to grave. The man lived a jam-packed life... he was involved in just about everything of importance that happened in the century. It's a two-hour time machine...with songs about giant skeeters.
Q: How does a festival like this benefit you as a writer?
A: As a writer you tend to get a bit insulated... especially if no one knows you're writing. The workshop process has been invaluable to me, because the people who have been working on "Collis" in the rehearsals are some of the most talented people I have ever met, and their opinions have been vital to the final product. This is a much different play than the one we started with a few months ago. And just as important for me has been to hear what Larry Groce has done with the lyrics I created. It's a once-in-a-lifetime feeling to hear someone sing and play words you've written.
Q: What does it mean for you to present this through MU's Dept. of Theatre?
A: Let's face it, MUTD provides a level of creative excellence that can't be duplicated in our area. They have the best facilities, and the best people around. I also admire their guts in trotting out five brand new, unknown productions.
Q: Why would you say to the person reading this to convince them to see this performance?
A: If you come see this, you are going to see some of the best performers I have ever worked with, creating something brand new. You are going to hear a couple of amazing tunes by Larry Groce. You are going to learn a few things about a truly remarkable figure in American history. And you are going to laugh at a few jokes. And if it some day is a big hit, you'll be able to sell your playbill on Ebay. In summation: If you like it... I thank you with all my heart. If you DON'T like it, then I blame the director, Jack Cirillo.
Thanks, Clint! (Dang, I forgot to ask him about the exclamation point in the title.)
Once again, here's the schedule for the event:
Thursday, June 28, three new one-act plays will be presented: Wedding Bells by Adriana Echeverri, Interrogation by M. A. Cantrell and Lunch At the Fork n’ Finger by Jonathan Joy.
Friday, June 29, a new screenplay: Serious Business by T. Michael Murdock.
Saturday, June 30, a new musical: Collis P!, written by Clint McElroy with new songs written by Mountain Stage’s Larry Groce.
For further information or to purchase tickets, visit the Marshall University Theatre box office or call 696-ARTS (2787). Tickets are priced at $5 per evening or a full festival pass (all three nights) at $12.
Tuesday, June 26, 2007
New Works Festival - Mike Murdock Speaks!
OK, yesterday we heard from New Works Festival director Jack Cirillo. Now let's turn the podium over to Mike Murdock, whose screenplay Serious Business is being presented Friday night as part of the three-night event. Here are his answers to our email questions:
Q: Give us a quick recap of your work that's being presented.
A: I'm having a full-length feature film screenplay read. It's a comedy about a group of friends and filmmakers trying to make a movie against the odds, and all the terrible things that happen to them along the way. There are dirty words, midgets, gangsters, gunplay, comedy, tragedy and more comedy. It's a heapin' helpin' of entertainment.
Q: How does a festival like this benefit you as a writer?
A: It's great for me because not only do I get to hear voices lent to each character in the movie, but each reading will have a talk-back session afterward where the audience can talk about what they liked and what they didn't like. It's super to have a room full of people let you know what did work and what didn't. The process itself was great, too, because hearing people work with the text allowed me to polish it quite a bit and add or take away bits and pieces to make things better.
Q: What does it mean for you to present this through MU's Dept. of Theatre?
A: Honestly, it really means a lot. I've gone to several schools, but Marshall is my hometown venue, and where I graduated, so it holds a special place in my heart. They treated me well there and are continuing to even after I've gone to make my way in the world. It makes me think they're as proud of me as I am of being a Marshall graduate. At the end of the day, I would've loved to have been able to make this movie in Huntington. I guess we'll see how the response is on Friday, and we'll go from there.
Q: Why would you say to the person reading this to convince them to see this performance?
A: It's funny. It's belly-laugh-out-loud funny. And it's only a READING. Can you imagine if you actually saw it on screen? And I don't want to sound like I'm tooting my own horn, here, but even the actors still giggle and laugh through the readings, so something must be right about it. This is a great chance to see something read that 99 percent of the people in this area will never get. How often does a screenplay come to town? Especially from a hometown boy who has spent the last three years in Hollywood? I honestly believe that anyone that comes to see this will, on some level, enjoy it, or, at the very least, learn something about the process of writing. It's been a great month setting this up, and I would love to see big crowds on all three nights of the festival. Everybody has worked really hard to present something special each night, and it shouldn't be missed.
Thanks, Mike!
Tomorrow: we'll hear from writer / actor / radio personality / teen heartthrob Clint McElroy.
Q: Give us a quick recap of your work that's being presented.
A: I'm having a full-length feature film screenplay read. It's a comedy about a group of friends and filmmakers trying to make a movie against the odds, and all the terrible things that happen to them along the way. There are dirty words, midgets, gangsters, gunplay, comedy, tragedy and more comedy. It's a heapin' helpin' of entertainment.
Q: How does a festival like this benefit you as a writer?
A: It's great for me because not only do I get to hear voices lent to each character in the movie, but each reading will have a talk-back session afterward where the audience can talk about what they liked and what they didn't like. It's super to have a room full of people let you know what did work and what didn't. The process itself was great, too, because hearing people work with the text allowed me to polish it quite a bit and add or take away bits and pieces to make things better.
Q: What does it mean for you to present this through MU's Dept. of Theatre?
A: Honestly, it really means a lot. I've gone to several schools, but Marshall is my hometown venue, and where I graduated, so it holds a special place in my heart. They treated me well there and are continuing to even after I've gone to make my way in the world. It makes me think they're as proud of me as I am of being a Marshall graduate. At the end of the day, I would've loved to have been able to make this movie in Huntington. I guess we'll see how the response is on Friday, and we'll go from there.
Q: Why would you say to the person reading this to convince them to see this performance?
A: It's funny. It's belly-laugh-out-loud funny. And it's only a READING. Can you imagine if you actually saw it on screen? And I don't want to sound like I'm tooting my own horn, here, but even the actors still giggle and laugh through the readings, so something must be right about it. This is a great chance to see something read that 99 percent of the people in this area will never get. How often does a screenplay come to town? Especially from a hometown boy who has spent the last three years in Hollywood? I honestly believe that anyone that comes to see this will, on some level, enjoy it, or, at the very least, learn something about the process of writing. It's been a great month setting this up, and I would love to see big crowds on all three nights of the festival. Everybody has worked really hard to present something special each night, and it shouldn't be missed.
Thanks, Mike!
Tomorrow: we'll hear from writer / actor / radio personality / teen heartthrob Clint McElroy.
New Works Fest Information
It occurs to me that we've been talking about the New Works Festival, but I haven't printed the Press Release that gives all the basic information about the event. Allow me to correct that oversight:
The first annual Robert Hinchman New Works Festival 2007 will be presented by Marshall University Theatre and the Marshall University College of Fine Arts.
The three night festival will present both staged and unstaged readings of five new plays over three consecutive evenings, June 28-30. All readings will begin at 8:00PM in the Francis Booth Experimental Theatre of the Joan C. Edwards Playhouse.
Each evening’s readings will be followed by a discussion / question and answer session with the playwright, director and cast. Participation is both welcome and encouraged.
The schedule of events is as follows: On Thursday, June 28, three new one-act plays will be presented - two by student playwrights from Middle Tennessee State University - Wedding Bells by Adriana Echeverri and Interrogation by M. A. Cantrell. Also presenting that evening will be Lunch At the Fork n’ Finger by published playwright and Marshall University Theatre Alumni, Jonathan Joy.
On Friday, June 29, a new screenplay: Serious Business by T. Michael Murdock will be presented. Murdock is a Marshall University Alumni and a professional actor/director who currently resides in Los Angeles, Ca.
Finally, on Saturday, June 30, a new musical, Collis P!, written by one of Huntington’s most recognizable personalities, Clint McElroy; offers (in musical form) a biographic tale of the founding father of this great city. As an added bonus, three new songs written for Collis P! by Mountain Stage’s own Larry Groce will be presented.
For further information or to purchase tickets, visit the Marshall University Theatre box office or call 696-ARTS (2787). Tickets are priced at $5 per evening or a full festival pass (all three nights) at $12.
Monday, June 25, 2007
New Works Festival - Jack Cirillo Speaks!
To learn more about the upcoming "New Works Festival" at Marshall University's Joan C. Edwards Performing Arts Center, we fired a few email questions at the director, MU Professor Jack Cirillo. Here's what he had to say:
Q: Just what is a "New Works Festival" and is this the first for our area?
A: The Robert Hinchman New Works Fest is in its first season and to my knowledge it is the first of its kind in this area. What “new works” and “playwright” festivals typically do is workshop and develop the workings of new plays in an effort to prepare them for production. It’s an opportunity for the playwright to have at his/her disposal a director and cast to work through their play aloud - sometimes with staging and sometimes without but always with script in hand — this insures that the emphasis of focus remains on the play itself and not on performance or stagecraft. This kind of reader’s theatre format often times gives a great deal of information to the playwright about clarity of plot points, character motivation and conflict.
Q: Why did MU's Dept. of Theatre decide to tackle this project?
A: We’ve been looking for ways to incorporate more contemporary material into our season and this is a great way of doing it. I think it also speaks directly to the educational mission of the Department, the College and most definitely the University. The New Works Fest is primarily focused on development and collaboration, not only among playwright, director, performers and designers; but with the audience as well. (SEE PROGRAM NOTES BELOW)
Q: How were the works chosen?
A: This first year I thought it important to feature “local” and alumni playwrights, i.e. Clint McElroy, Jon Joy and Mike Murdock. I also asked some colleagues from colleges and universities from our region that I am familiar with through the Kennedy Center/American College Theatre Festival (an organization that Marshall University Theatre is very involved with). I received (in a very short time) about 35 plays for perusal and I selected two from Middle Tennessee State University that I thought would pair well with Jon Joy’s one-act: Lunch at the Fork n’ Finger.
Q: What kind of challenge is this for the actors taking part?
A: Very challenging in that there is not a whole lot of rehearsal for these plays — about 20 hours each. The very nature of this work is in immediacy. By that I mean that changes may and will happen constantly throughout the process. An actor may get line changes or even recast 20 minutes before we do it for an audience! You’ve got to be able to adapt quickly. Also, the actor has do to much of the work with their voice as most of the time they are in a chair, reading their part.
Q: Do you hope to make this an annual event?
A: Absolutely. We’re committed to doing this for the foreseeable future. We hope to grow and learn from this season and hopefully broaden the scope of what we do and how we present the work in years to come. I look forward to developing other partnerships like the one created with Middle Tennessee State University this year. Also it is my goal to not only provide an opportunity for new playwrights, but for nationally recognized professional talents as well.
Thanks, Jack, for taking the time to answer those questions! He also sent along this information, which is also featured in the program for the event:
Great theatre begins with an idea and more often than not, that initial spark of creation is ignited by the playwright. But don’t get the wrong impression; the difficult journey of a play from “idea” to fully mounted production is not the solitary task of any one individual, quite the contrary. What makes the theatre such a magnificent art form is the fact that it is such a remarkable demonstration of collaboration. It is through the artistic collaboration of the playwright, the director, the actor, the designer—and eventually the audience that the initial idea of the playwright’s story can develop mature and (finally) be told.
It is the goal of the Robert Hinchman New Works Fest to encourage, develop, and present the playwright's tale in the early stages of the play's life. The plays of this year's festival are in the truest sense — works in progress. They have minimal staging, virtually no sets and very few props. What they do have however, is careful attention, hours of considered discussion and preparation, as well as the creative support of many gifted performers, directors and theatre artists to help define each play, each moment and each character. The plays will be read in “reader’s theatre” format so as to direct focus on the play itself (as opposed to individual performances and/or clever stagecraft).
What we hope to achieve is a clearer understanding of each play and the refinement of its story in an effort to bring it that much closer to full production. As an audience member of this “laboratory” experience, you too have an important contribution to make in the life of these plays. We are in need of your unique perspective. We need to know what your experience with this play is like. You are the “Test-Market” audience that will help to decide the future of these plays. In an effort to focus our discussion after the presentation you will see tonight, please consider these few guideline questions:
1. Did the play(s) capture your interest and imagination?
2. Were you in any way moved by the conflict of the central character(s)?
3. What did you find confusing or perhaps contrived in the piece?
4. Was the play given sufficient time to explore the story?
5. Would you be interested in seeing a fully mounted production of this play?
Tomorrow: We'll hear from writer / actor / bon vivant Mike Murdock.
Q: Just what is a "New Works Festival" and is this the first for our area?
A: The Robert Hinchman New Works Fest is in its first season and to my knowledge it is the first of its kind in this area. What “new works” and “playwright” festivals typically do is workshop and develop the workings of new plays in an effort to prepare them for production. It’s an opportunity for the playwright to have at his/her disposal a director and cast to work through their play aloud - sometimes with staging and sometimes without but always with script in hand — this insures that the emphasis of focus remains on the play itself and not on performance or stagecraft. This kind of reader’s theatre format often times gives a great deal of information to the playwright about clarity of plot points, character motivation and conflict.
Q: Why did MU's Dept. of Theatre decide to tackle this project?
A: We’ve been looking for ways to incorporate more contemporary material into our season and this is a great way of doing it. I think it also speaks directly to the educational mission of the Department, the College and most definitely the University. The New Works Fest is primarily focused on development and collaboration, not only among playwright, director, performers and designers; but with the audience as well. (SEE PROGRAM NOTES BELOW)
Q: How were the works chosen?
A: This first year I thought it important to feature “local” and alumni playwrights, i.e. Clint McElroy, Jon Joy and Mike Murdock. I also asked some colleagues from colleges and universities from our region that I am familiar with through the Kennedy Center/American College Theatre Festival (an organization that Marshall University Theatre is very involved with). I received (in a very short time) about 35 plays for perusal and I selected two from Middle Tennessee State University that I thought would pair well with Jon Joy’s one-act: Lunch at the Fork n’ Finger.
Q: What kind of challenge is this for the actors taking part?
A: Very challenging in that there is not a whole lot of rehearsal for these plays — about 20 hours each. The very nature of this work is in immediacy. By that I mean that changes may and will happen constantly throughout the process. An actor may get line changes or even recast 20 minutes before we do it for an audience! You’ve got to be able to adapt quickly. Also, the actor has do to much of the work with their voice as most of the time they are in a chair, reading their part.
Q: Do you hope to make this an annual event?
A: Absolutely. We’re committed to doing this for the foreseeable future. We hope to grow and learn from this season and hopefully broaden the scope of what we do and how we present the work in years to come. I look forward to developing other partnerships like the one created with Middle Tennessee State University this year. Also it is my goal to not only provide an opportunity for new playwrights, but for nationally recognized professional talents as well.
Thanks, Jack, for taking the time to answer those questions! He also sent along this information, which is also featured in the program for the event:
Great theatre begins with an idea and more often than not, that initial spark of creation is ignited by the playwright. But don’t get the wrong impression; the difficult journey of a play from “idea” to fully mounted production is not the solitary task of any one individual, quite the contrary. What makes the theatre such a magnificent art form is the fact that it is such a remarkable demonstration of collaboration. It is through the artistic collaboration of the playwright, the director, the actor, the designer—and eventually the audience that the initial idea of the playwright’s story can develop mature and (finally) be told.
It is the goal of the Robert Hinchman New Works Fest to encourage, develop, and present the playwright's tale in the early stages of the play's life. The plays of this year's festival are in the truest sense — works in progress. They have minimal staging, virtually no sets and very few props. What they do have however, is careful attention, hours of considered discussion and preparation, as well as the creative support of many gifted performers, directors and theatre artists to help define each play, each moment and each character. The plays will be read in “reader’s theatre” format so as to direct focus on the play itself (as opposed to individual performances and/or clever stagecraft).
What we hope to achieve is a clearer understanding of each play and the refinement of its story in an effort to bring it that much closer to full production. As an audience member of this “laboratory” experience, you too have an important contribution to make in the life of these plays. We are in need of your unique perspective. We need to know what your experience with this play is like. You are the “Test-Market” audience that will help to decide the future of these plays. In an effort to focus our discussion after the presentation you will see tonight, please consider these few guideline questions:
1. Did the play(s) capture your interest and imagination?
2. Were you in any way moved by the conflict of the central character(s)?
3. What did you find confusing or perhaps contrived in the piece?
4. Was the play given sufficient time to explore the story?
5. Would you be interested in seeing a fully mounted production of this play?
Tomorrow: We'll hear from writer / actor / bon vivant Mike Murdock.
Sunday, June 24, 2007
Coming up - The New Works Festival
Marshall University's Department of Theatre is hosting a different kind of theatre event this week - a New Works Festival.
So what the heck is that, you ask? We were wondering the same thing - so we've arranged for interviews with some of the principles involved.
The first of those Q & A's will run in this space tomorrow, as we talk to the brains behind the idea: MU professor Jack Cirillo. Be there!
So what the heck is that, you ask? We were wondering the same thing - so we've arranged for interviews with some of the principles involved.
The first of those Q & A's will run in this space tomorrow, as we talk to the brains behind the idea: MU professor Jack Cirillo. Be there!
Saturday, June 23, 2007
One More Chance to catch "The Prayer List"
My family and I were part of the audience that enjoyed the performance of "The Prayer List" last night at the Joselyn Center (formerly the Camelot Theatre).
The play is a series of (seemingly) unconnected monologues delivered by several actors, all representing a different aspect of West Virginia culture - the good, the bad, and the underbelly. It made for a fun and funny hour, and congratulations to the cast for making the most of each part. It's not easy to create a character witout the usual props, with virtually no set and no other actors to interact with - but these performers did a great job.
The cast includes Dwight Slappe, Melissa Langham, Tressa Preston, Karah Markins, Travis McElroy, Justin McElroy and Mike Murdock. (But be warned, that Murdock has a potty mouth on him.)
"The Prayer List" was written by local playwright Jon Joy, and it's also his entry in Charleston's FestivALL. If you missed last night's show, you have one more chance to catch it - there will be a performance at the Clay Center in Charleston Sunday at 4:00 p.m.
Recommended!
The play is a series of (seemingly) unconnected monologues delivered by several actors, all representing a different aspect of West Virginia culture - the good, the bad, and the underbelly. It made for a fun and funny hour, and congratulations to the cast for making the most of each part. It's not easy to create a character witout the usual props, with virtually no set and no other actors to interact with - but these performers did a great job.
The cast includes Dwight Slappe, Melissa Langham, Tressa Preston, Karah Markins, Travis McElroy, Justin McElroy and Mike Murdock. (But be warned, that Murdock has a potty mouth on him.)
"The Prayer List" was written by local playwright Jon Joy, and it's also his entry in Charleston's FestivALL. If you missed last night's show, you have one more chance to catch it - there will be a performance at the Clay Center in Charleston Sunday at 4:00 p.m.
Recommended!
Friday, June 22, 2007
On Stage Tonight - "The Prayer List"
A reminder: tonight's the only Huntington show of "The Prayer List". The one-hour show starts at 8:00 p.m. at the Jeslyn Performing Arts Center (the old Camelot Theatre). Tickets are $6.00 (a bargain for live theatre).
Come on out and support the arts!
Come on out and support the arts!
Thursday, June 21, 2007
A Record-Breaking Discussion
Hey, if you haven't checked out the comments section on the recent Censorship and Local Theatre entry, you're missing a good discussion!
Just click on the word "Comments" at the bottom of the entry to read it - and feel free to add to the discussion. With 23 comments (at last count), it holds the record for most comments to this blog in its nine-month existence!
Update: Now we're up to 25 comments!
Another Update: Make it 28!
One last update: OK, 29 it is!
It's not over yet: Make it 31!
Just click on the word "Comments" at the bottom of the entry to read it - and feel free to add to the discussion. With 23 comments (at last count), it holds the record for most comments to this blog in its nine-month existence!
Update: Now we're up to 25 comments!
Another Update: Make it 28!
One last update: OK, 29 it is!
It's not over yet: Make it 31!
More on "The Prayer List"
Speaking of "The Prayer List" (did I mention that it plays one night only this Friday?), our pal Dave Lavender has a story about it in today's Herald-Dispatch - you can read it right here.
On Stage - The Prayer List
Mike Murdoch (who is everywhere these days, directing, acting - I even hear he has a book being published) sent this information about a show Friday night in downtown Huntington:
"The Prayer List"
By Jon Joy
When: THIS FRIDAY, June 22 at 8:00 p.m.
Where: the Jeslyn Performing Arts Center (the old Camelot Theatre)
Tickets are $6.00
ONE NIGHT ONLY!!
This is a 1-hour monologue play written by local playwright Jon Joy, and is also his entry in Charleston's FestivALL. It will have a second performance at the Clay Center in Charleston at 4:00 p.m. THIS SUNDAY!
The show features the talents of: Dwight Slappe, Melissa Langham, Tressa Preston, Karah Markins, Travis McElroy, Justin McElroy and Mike Murdock (imagine that!)
It's a really funny show, and it's only happening once, and it's only an hour, and it will be a lot of fun, and, and, and...if you don't have anything to do Friday night, JOIN US!
The show contains adult language.
"The Prayer List"
By Jon Joy
When: THIS FRIDAY, June 22 at 8:00 p.m.
Where: the Jeslyn Performing Arts Center (the old Camelot Theatre)
Tickets are $6.00
ONE NIGHT ONLY!!
This is a 1-hour monologue play written by local playwright Jon Joy, and is also his entry in Charleston's FestivALL. It will have a second performance at the Clay Center in Charleston at 4:00 p.m. THIS SUNDAY!
The show features the talents of: Dwight Slappe, Melissa Langham, Tressa Preston, Karah Markins, Travis McElroy, Justin McElroy and Mike Murdock (imagine that!)
It's a really funny show, and it's only happening once, and it's only an hour, and it will be a lot of fun, and, and, and...if you don't have anything to do Friday night, JOIN US!
The show contains adult language.
Wednesday, June 20, 2007
In Our Thoughts and Prayers
I wanted to take a moment and send out my condolences to the family and friends of Chris Withers and Bobby Gleason, the two young men who were taken from us much too soon after a tragic car accident in Alabama.
Both had ties to the local theatre community - Chris was a member of Huntington High School's Chamber Choir, and Bobby had appeared in First Stage shows - he was one of the wild boys in "Peter Pan."
Our thoughts and prayers are with them and their loved ones.
Both had ties to the local theatre community - Chris was a member of Huntington High School's Chamber Choir, and Bobby had appeared in First Stage shows - he was one of the wild boys in "Peter Pan."
Our thoughts and prayers are with them and their loved ones.
Spring Awakening on the Tony Awards
By the way, in case you missed it, here's the Spring Awakening performance from the Tony Awards, including Zack Braff's introduction. Enjoy!
Tuesday, June 19, 2007
The Tony Effect
So even though it didn't exactly kill in the ratings, the Tony Awards still had a strong effect in terms of Broadway tickets sales - both good and bad.
The big winner, Spring Awakening, has been playing to sold-out crowds. Other shows that didn't do as well are closing their doors. You can read more about it right here at Broadway.com.
The big winner, Spring Awakening, has been playing to sold-out crowds. Other shows that didn't do as well are closing their doors. You can read more about it right here at Broadway.com.
Monday, June 18, 2007
Coming Soon: the New Works Festival
In case you missed this recent comment, here's some information about a series of performances coming up that you won't want to miss:
<< Incredibly talented and devilishly handsome Mike Murdock here (hey, your words, Chuck, not mine), with the info requested about the Marshall New Works Festival coming up week after next.
What: Robert Hinchman New Works Festival 2007
Where: The Marshall University Experimental Theatre in the Joan C. Edwards Playhouse
When: Thursday, June 28th; Friday, June 29th; Saturday, June 30th, 2007, starting at 8 p.m. each night.
This is the official Marshall School of Theatre production for the Summer.
Here's how it works:
Thursday, June 28th at 8 p.m.
Wedding Bells by Adriana Echeverri (from Middle Tennessee State)
Interrogation by M.A. Cantrell (also of MTSU)
Lunch at the Fork 'N Finger by Jon Joy
Each short play will be read by a full cast of actors, the playwrights will be in attendance, and a talkback will be held after each show to discuss the work.
Friday, June 29th, 8 p.m.
Serious Business - a feature length screenplay by Mike Murdock (yeah, that's me. And?)
Again, this will be read with a full cast of actors, as well as a viewing of filmed segments throughout, and a talkback will be held afterward. It's where I get to stand against the wall with a blindfold and a cigarette and everybody gets to take their shot.
Saturday, June 30th, 8 p.m.
Collis P! - a new musical by Clint McElroy with music by Larry Gross (of MountainStage fame) (Editor's Note: The show is based on the life of Collis P. Huntington, the founder of the city.)
This will be read by a full cast, and selections of music will be played for the first time ANYWHERE!
As always, there will be a talkback afterward for everyone to ask Clint why there's an exclamation point at the end of the title.
So that's the skinny. Tickets will be $5 on the night of the show, or you can get a $12, 3-night pass to see all of 'em!
Everybody has given up a lot of time to work on these pieces, and not only is there good writing (if I do say so myself), but also great performances by the actors. It's gonna be a great 3 day event for theatre lovers and people that want to see the process by which plays make it to the stage, or, in my case, the silver screen.
None of these shows have been performed anywhere before, so be the first on your block to be able to say "Hey, I remember that show! I supported that from the outset!!"
In the meantime, thanks, Chuck, for getting this out there, and I look forward to seeing everyone in a couple of weeks! >>
<< Incredibly talented and devilishly handsome Mike Murdock here (hey, your words, Chuck, not mine), with the info requested about the Marshall New Works Festival coming up week after next.
What: Robert Hinchman New Works Festival 2007
Where: The Marshall University Experimental Theatre in the Joan C. Edwards Playhouse
When: Thursday, June 28th; Friday, June 29th; Saturday, June 30th, 2007, starting at 8 p.m. each night.
This is the official Marshall School of Theatre production for the Summer.
Here's how it works:
Thursday, June 28th at 8 p.m.
Wedding Bells by Adriana Echeverri (from Middle Tennessee State)
Interrogation by M.A. Cantrell (also of MTSU)
Lunch at the Fork 'N Finger by Jon Joy
Each short play will be read by a full cast of actors, the playwrights will be in attendance, and a talkback will be held after each show to discuss the work.
Friday, June 29th, 8 p.m.
Serious Business - a feature length screenplay by Mike Murdock (yeah, that's me. And?)
Again, this will be read with a full cast of actors, as well as a viewing of filmed segments throughout, and a talkback will be held afterward. It's where I get to stand against the wall with a blindfold and a cigarette and everybody gets to take their shot.
Saturday, June 30th, 8 p.m.
Collis P! - a new musical by Clint McElroy with music by Larry Gross (of MountainStage fame) (Editor's Note: The show is based on the life of Collis P. Huntington, the founder of the city.)
This will be read by a full cast, and selections of music will be played for the first time ANYWHERE!
As always, there will be a talkback afterward for everyone to ask Clint why there's an exclamation point at the end of the title.
So that's the skinny. Tickets will be $5 on the night of the show, or you can get a $12, 3-night pass to see all of 'em!
Everybody has given up a lot of time to work on these pieces, and not only is there good writing (if I do say so myself), but also great performances by the actors. It's gonna be a great 3 day event for theatre lovers and people that want to see the process by which plays make it to the stage, or, in my case, the silver screen.
None of these shows have been performed anywhere before, so be the first on your block to be able to say "Hey, I remember that show! I supported that from the outset!!"
In the meantime, thanks, Chuck, for getting this out there, and I look forward to seeing everyone in a couple of weeks! >>
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