Shows

2011 Quicken Loans Carrier Classic - San Deigo, CA

Fri, 11 Nov 2011 20:51:47 -0800

A historic basketball game on the deck of the USS Carl Vincent in San Diego, CA.
We were honored to play apart in this amazing game with the Obamas, Five for Fighting and Billy Currington.

Next to Normal - Sarasota, FL

Wed, 2 Nov 2011 16:37:01 -0700

Show Website: http://www.floridastudiotheatre.org/show_shows.php?id=342#

Next to Normal
HELD OVER THRU JAN 20!
November 2 thru January 20
In the Keating Theatre

Overview The 2010 Pulitzer Prize for Drama. Set to a compelling contemporary score, "Next to Normal" is an emotional powerhouse of a musical about a family trying to take care of themselves and each other. Nominated for 11 Tony Awards.
More Information

Starring (in order of appearance)
Stacia Fernandez*....................................................................................Diana
Mike Backes*...........................................................................................Gabe
Leo Daignault*...........................................................................................Dan
Ashley Picciallo*....................................................................................Natalie
James LaRosa*.......................................................................................Henry
Scott Guthrie*....................................................................Dr. Madden/Dr. Fine

Directed by Richard Hopkins
Production Stage Manager - Kelli Karen*
Musical Director - Aimee Radics
Musical Staging - Stephen Hope
Scenic Coordinator - April Soroko
Costume Designer - Sara J. Hinkley
Lighting Designer - David M. Upton
Sound Designer - Eric Stahlhammer

The Band - Aimee Radics, Erik Sumner, Matthew R. Meckes, Ericka Brown, Aaron Nix and Amanda Nix

Click here to read their bios.
*Denote member of Actors' Equity

Read about Next to Normal's big Pulitzer Prize win for Drama in 2010.

Meet the Broadway creative team behind Next to Normal as they talk about the concept of the play, the music, and the themes.

Read about Next to Normal's unlikely road to success.

Mental illness affects more than one out of every five U.S. adults. Read more about Bipolar disorder and how the musical presents a family affected by it.

Next to Normal is truly a contemporary musical. Explore the changing face of musical theatre here.

Read an interview with Stacia Fernandez from our friends at Playbill.com.

“’Next to Normal’ rocks your heart, your mind, and your soul.” -The Observer

“A stunning opener for Florida Studio Theatre’s fall season.” - The Observer

"'Next to Normal' might not be for everybody but it's must-see performance art for anyone interested in what the exciting possibilities are in musical theater." -Bradenton Herald

“FST’s ‘Next to Normal’ is crazy good” -Bradenton Herald

"The production staged by Richard Hopkins is energetic, loving, open and enveloping." -Sarasota Herald-Tribune

“Diana’s struggles and the impact on her family provide a surprising sense of inspiration and rejuvenation for those watching the invigorating, Pulitzer Prize-winning musical ‘Next to Normal’ at Florida Studio Theatre.” -Sarasota Herald-Tribune

"Stacia Fernandez lets us get into Diana's mind and shifting feelings, beautifully sung as well as acted." -Total Theater

“The cast is all excellent, but Fernandez and Picciallo are especially impressive. And, in a town where standing ovations can become too common, these performers truly earn theirs.” -Sarasota Magazine

“‘Next To Normal’ a compelling evening of theatre” -SCENE Magazine

“…powerful and engrossing drama about grief, depression, drug addiction, and mental illness.” -SCENE Magazine

“This is musical theatre at its best” -SCENE Magazine

"'Next to Normal' is not only passionately dramatic but also hilarious at times... Stacia Fernandez is totally riveting as a soccer mom on the brink." -The St. Pete Times

Click below to listen to Radio Host Lisa Wolf on Chicago's WIND AM 560 after she visited Sarasota and saw our production of "Next to Normal."

Anything Goes, Auburn, NY

Wed, 1 Jun 2011 17:55:28 -0700

Images: http://merry-go-round.com/news-and-media/photos/album/2011-season-anything-goes

Program: AnythingGoes10Insert.pdf

Mexico Bicentennial Celebration - Mexico City

Wed, 15 Sep 2010 20:19:39 -0700

The 200th anniversary of Mexico’s independence and 100th anniversary of it’s revolution was an absolute honor to be a part of.

From Wikipedia:
On the night of September 15, 2010 around a million people gathered at the "Zocalo" and "Angel de la Independencia" to celebrate two hundred years of freedom.[citation needed]
The Angel of the Independence hosted a parade of popular young musicians like Aleks Syntek, Paulina Rubio, Ely Guerra and Natalia Lafourcade. Thousands of persons took advantage of the opportunity of seeing closely to his idols and of step to enjoy the native holidays. The director of the Philharmonic Orchestra of the Americas, Alondra de la Parra, was the one that began to the concert in The Angel on the occasion of the Bicentenary and Centenary of the Revolution. Lo Blondo and Ely Guerra were the first ones invited in rising to the scene and parting with the rock that it characterizes them they gave voice to the topic " Only once ". Within a few minutes, Natalia Lafourcade joined the duet and already as soloist I continue the recital with the Jose Alfredo Jiménez's classic one " I dawned again ".
The change of pace came when the DJ Alyosa Barreiro, offered a set of electronic music and opened to Aleks Syntek, not without before, the drivers Julio Bracho and Vanessa Bauche invited to the hearing to mention them the mother the assistants in the events carried out in the "Zocalo" and in the statue of "El Caballito".

Panoramic view of the parade of the Bicentenary of Mexico at the Torre del Caballito, Paseo de la Reforma corner of Avenida Juarez, 15.09.2010
The celebrations of the two hundred anniversary of the National Independence at the "Zocalo" began at 5 PM with the "Ritual del Fuego" ceremony in which around 40 grandfathers of different regions of the country participated. After the ritual tree "mariachi" groups and a theater group arrived and performed typical songs of the Mexican culture. Two different shows were presented after this. (Arbol de la Vida and Vuela Mexico) The "Arbol de la Vida" show had its own stage and through different figures of the independence heroes they represented different aspects and moments of Mexico's history. "Vuela Mexico" was an acrobatic number were the dancers formed the word Mexico using their bodies. At 11:00 PM, like all the years, the celebration was interrupted and the president, Felipe Calderón Hinojosa, appeared and received from the hands of a military escort the flag of Mexico and then walked to the balcony where he rang the liberty bell, remembered and yelled all the independence heroe's names and then rang the bell again. At 11:05 the national anthem was played and all the people gathered sang along. Everything was followed by the bicentennial firework show that amazed all the people. At 11:30 Armando Manzanero appeared with the Yucalpeten Orchestra to perform his hits and closed all the celebrations at the Zocalo.
Miguel Hidalgo and Benito Juarez sectors are two of the main celebration points in Mexico City. In Benito Juarez sector, activities start with a official ceremony to Mexico's national flag. At night the sector's governor made the traditional "grito de independencia" to recall the memory of Mexican independence heroes. The events at this sector of the city consisted of coordinated civic events, which had a military ceremony style. In Miguel Hidalgo sector, there was a vast set of cultural performances: the Mexican dance company "Itlatiuh", then the "Sonora Dinamita" and the "Zona Rica", both popular music bands. The event will have the assistance of the orchestas and folklorikal ballets. Like in every traditional celebration there were mariachis, which come right before the "grito". The governor of this sector algos gives the "grito de independencia". The events at Miguel Hidalgo have the style of popular cultural events, so they differ a little from the ones in Benito Juarez.[32]
The military parade of the Mexican independence bicentennial started at 11:00 o clock. The soldiers greeted and honored president Felipe Calderón Hinojosa, their supreme commander. After the parade President Calderón went to the Plaza de la constitución accompanied by representatives of the congress and the Federal Court to listen the verse named "El canto a la bandera". Right after the verse five aircraft flew across Mexico city and president Calderón made his way to the central balcony of the Mexican national palace. His wife Margarita Zavala and his children María, Luis Felipe and Juan Pablo were already waiting for him at the palace. Soon after his arrival the military abandoned The Plaza de la Constitución and made their way to the initial starting point of the parade.
For the celebration of Mexican Bicentennial independence anniversary,17 different friend countries of Mexico participated in the military parade celebrated on September 16, 2010. In the presence of Felipe Calderón Hinojosa, president of Mexico, the military parade began with the free fall of 27 paratroopers,12 from the Navy and 15 from the army. Immediately after the contingency that conforms the parade column marched across "Plaza de la constitución". Each of the groups was led by women. The parade had the participation of 18 thousand 116 hundredth effectives of the Mexican army, Navy and the Federal Public Security Secretary. Being an special occasion military delegations from Germany, Argentina, Brazil, Canada, Colombia, China, Colombia, El Salvador, Spain, United States, France, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, Russia, Peru and Venezuela also participated in the parade.
A total of 176 flags, among them the first two of the Mexican army that where held by Spain government traveled the circuit that goes from "Plaza de la constitución" to the Angel de la Independencia. 242 vehicles and 326 horses marched in front of National palace balcony.121 airplanes from Mexican Air Force (FAM) realized flybys. 680 elements from the motorized group, 92 vehicles of motorized cavalry, 207 effectives and 59 vehicles of the armored group as well as 499 elements and 63 artillery vehicles also participated in the parade. 219 women,240 elements from Mexican Air Force, 1556 combat troop elements,2867 students and seven vehicles of military traveled the path by foot. From the Mexican Navy's 5 thousandth 2 hundredth elements participated in the parade and 636 from the Public Security Secretary. 326 elements of the cavalry división and 100 "charros" traveled the circuit to close the parade.

Promises, Promises - Auburn, NY

Wed, 7 Jul 2010 17:55:32 -0700

Images: http://merry-go-round.com/news-and-media/photos/album/2010-season-promises-promises

Program: PromisesInsert10.pdf

Drowsy Chaperone - Auburn, NY

Wed, 9 Jun 2010 17:53:30 -0700

Images: http://merry-go-round.com/news-and-media/photos/album/2010-season-the-drowsy-chaperone

Program: DrowsyInsert10.pdf

25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, Sarasota, FL

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 17:29:05 -0800

The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee
Keating Theatre
November 18 thru January 29
In the Keating Theatre

Overview Tony Award Winner. In this hilarious new musical comedy, six young people in the throes of puberty are overseen by grown-ups who barely managed to escape childhood themselves. Together they learn that winning isn't everything and that losing doesn't necessarily make you a loser.
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Cast and Creative
Videos and More Information

I Love you, You’re Perfect, Now Change - Sarasota, FL

Tue, 10 Nov 2009 16:43:28 -0800

I Love You, You're Perfect, Now Change
A musical joyride through the phases of love
November 10 thru January 22
In the Keating Theatre

Overview A musical joyride through the phases of love. From the first stages of romance, to marriage, parenthood and beyond. This witty revue about love and relationships exposes everything you've secretly thought about romance but were afraid to admit! Marvelously tuneful and funny, it played 5,003 performances off-Broadway and in over 400 cities worldwide. "I loved it, it's perfect, now see it!" - The Observer
More Information

Gil Brady
Randy Glass
Stacey Harris
Stacey Scotte

Director - Kate Alexander
Music Director - John Franceschina
Choreographer - DJ Gray
Scenic Design - Bob Phillips
Costume Design - Sara J. Hinkley
Lighting Design - David Upton
Sound Designer - Eric Stahlhammer
Pianist/Assistant Music Director - Jeff Theiss
Violinist - Sara Beth Gardner

Click here for full bios and headshots

Videos and Information

'You'll love it - and you won't want to change a thing' – Creative Loafing
'Engaging and energetic' – Sarasota Herald-Tribune
'A marvelous cast' – Pelican Press
Read more reviews and articles about the show here.

A Murder, A Mystery & A Marriage, Sarasota, FL

Thu, 1 Oct 2009 17:31:12 -0700

A Murder, A Mystery & A Marriage
Book and Lyrics by Aaron Posner; Music by James Sugg
October 1 thru November 28
In the Keating Theatre

Overview A clever new musical comedy, based on the short story by Mark Twain. The zany small town of Deer Lick, Missouri is thrown into frenzy when a mysterious visitor arrives. A young romance is put to the test and a town patriarch is murdered. Was it the local store clerk with a vendetta or the suave Frenchman? Small town antics, homespun humor and Bluegrass melodies build to an adventure of clues. Will Mary marry the wrong guy? Or will love and truth save the day? Only the wit, wisdom and satirical humor of Mark Twain could answer these questions.
More Information

Videos and More Information
Cast and Creative  Audience Forum - The Stranger Chats

Peter and the Starcatchers - La Jolla, Ca

Fri, 27 Feb 2009 12:12:41 -0800

Website:

http://www.lajollaplayhouse.org/Plays%20&%20Events/2008-2009%20Season/Peter%20and%20the%20Starcatchers/

Pictures:

Peter and the Starcatchers

Related News:

From the La Jolla Playouse Website:

Peter and the Starcatchers
February 13 - March 8, 2009
Sheila and Hughes Potiker Theatre

Written by Rick Elice
Lyrics by Rick Elice
Music by Wayne Barker
Directed by Roger Rees & Alex Timbers
Based on the Book by Dave Barry & Ridley Pearson

A Page To Stage Workshop Production, by special arrangement of Disney Theatrical Productions

La Jolla Playhouse will present Peter and the Starcatchers, a new play, as part of its Page to Stage program in the Winter of 2009, by special arrangement with Disney Theatrical Productions. Based on the popular novel by Dave Barry and Ridley Pearson, Peter and the Starcatchers - a prequel to Peter Pan - will play in La Jolla Playhouse's Sheila and Hughes Potiker Theatre from February 13 through March 8, 2009.

Written by Rick Elice, directed by Roger Rees and Alex Timbers, Peter and the Starcatchers reveals the wonderful story that precedes J. M. Barrie's beloved Peter Pan. Young orphan Peter and his mates sail aboard the Never Land in a high seas adventure, battling pirates to keep secret a mysterious and dangerous cargo.

Know Before you go:
An Awfully Big Adventure
Literary Manager Gabriel Greene sat down with the creative team for Peter and the Starcatchers to hear their thoughts on bringing the project from the page to the stage.
On staging the first production at La Jolla Playhouse:
Ken Cerniglia (dramaturg): Being asked to turn Dave and Ridley's epic best-selling novel into a play was at once thrilling and daunting — how do we get all that action onto the stage? Although things have certainly evolved since the conception of this project two years ago, the approach — the first impulse — hasn't varied. Everyone's going to play everything. You're going to look at the stage and think you're seeing nothing and then set and characters are just pulled out of nowhere and come into full presence. There's going to be true "play" in this play. That was one of the first discussions we had and that absolutely remains the ethos of the piece. Now we get to see those ideas come to fruition for the first time.
Alex Timbers (co-director): Typically, when you mount a new play, you're trying to learn about the viability of the play itself: working on the script and making sure you're telling the story. We're actually trying to do two things: figure out the viability of the script, and the viability of a staging concept. Usually, a fully-produced world premiere of a play has representational scenery and people dressed in full as the people they're playing. But we're trying to do the production that might be done twenty years from now: re-imagining Peter and the Starcatchers in this cool, spare way. When something is working, you can feel the synergy between the script and the staging. The Page To Stage process helps us explore that synergy most effectively.
Rick Elice (playwright): Having worked here on Jersey Boys, I know La Jolla Playhouse is the ideal place to do something new. Your audiences understand that this play has never been done before; there's an entirely blank canvas, or a canvas that exists only in the minds of a few people. It's our responsibility to take what's in our minds and translate it into concrete terms for the audience. When the script says a character walks through a door, you would read it and assume that there's going to be a door. But in this production, the actors make the door; the actors are actually creating a world, not just inhabiting it. It's fascinating. And it's a very, very complex, challenging, detailed, and creative assignment with lots of need for trial and error. That's what this process has been about. It's a big mother of a ship, this play.
On the role of songs in the play:
Wayne Barker (composer): I came on relatively late in the process, when there was already a complete script. It was peppered with capital letters, which always jump out as lyrics — although sometimes in such an active story you're never sure if people are singing or shouting!
RE: It was not insensible, or even insensitive, to bring in Wayne once the play existed, because the songs in this play function in a different way than they would if this were a musical. Here, the songs appear and function as added value for the storytelling. They do not move the story forward. They do not explicate or dramatize plot points the way songs generally function in a musical.
WB: I had the great advantage of Rick's total command of style and pastiche and knowing exactly what was good in this spot, and what kind of music would go in that spot. Rick was able to conceive of words that fit perfectly viable tunes that just needed to be plucked from the ether and set down on paper by the likes of me. There were a couple of places where I had an idea that seemed counter to what was on the page, so I hesitated. But Rick, of all of my many collaborators, is the one to insist, "Go with your first impulse!" I can't tell you how many bruises I have on the side of my head from his insistence on my going with my first impulse.
RE: These songs function as little bonbons of pleasure. That's why I kept smacking Wayne in the head: because he starts out really, really pleasurable then his naturally dour disposition starts taking over his work. (Laughs)
On the idea of never growing up:
RE: When I was a boy I used to think about aping my elders; I aspired to be like adults. Now our culture has adults aspiring to be like children, and that makes it a really good time to do this play [about how an orphan boy becomes Peter Pan]. What better expression is there of youth obsession than the concept of never growing old? A fascinating new perspective on this for adults is to appreciate what we give up by not ever reaching maturity. As much fun as it would be to fly around and never have a wrinkle, now that I'm in the middle of my life, I look back over what my life it has been so far and what I expect it to be and I think, "I'd rather have experienced those (grownup) things, which make life worth living more than flying up and down the beach or fighting pirates." I imagine even Peter, if he had been given a voice to say so, would have gotten a little bit bored with all that eventually. That's why he keeps coming back to London, I would guess. He's looking for other things to do.
Roger Rees (co-director): There's a line that Alex and I like very much in the [original Barrie] play, spoken by Mrs. Darling just before she leaves the children alone: "I thought I saw a face at the window." And of course that's Peter Pan. Always outside the glass, looking in.
RE: What I got from Roger and Alex in the early workshops is that they wanted an adult perspective on a youthful subject matter. I started imagining Moses looking over the Promised Land and not ever being allowed to go in. At this point in my life, I would much rather be an anonymous Israelite who actually got to walk into the Promised Land and stand on the land of milk and honey, rather than be held back by God: "Looks nice, doesn't it? But because you hit that rock instead of talked to it you're not going to get a chance to go in." Hopefully, this play will enable the audience to feel better about where they are in the course of their lives, and to think, "Maybe it wouldn't be so great to be trapped, forever on the verge."

AARP Life @ 50 +

Thu, 4 Sep 2008 11:42:55 -0700

Website:

http://www.aarp.org

Services Provided:
System Design
RF Coordination
Network/IT Services
A1 Audio Engineer
Artist Liaison

At the Washington DC Convention Center
14,500+ Seats

With  Paul Simon  Chicago  Natalie Cole  Chaka Khan  Mya Angeleu  Quincy Jones  Regis Philbin
Archive Show Files

Love, Janis National Tour

Sat, 16 Feb 2008 15:24:05 -0800

Website:

http://www.lovejanisthemusical.com/

Related News:

Variety Review from Los Angles

Tour Schedule:
2/16/08
Park City, UT
Eccles Center

2/19 - 24/08
Dallas, TX
Majestic Theatre

2/26 - 27/08
East Lansing, MI
Wharton Center

2/29 - 3/2/08
Ft. Lauderdale, FL
Parker Playhouse

3/6/08
Red Bank, NJ
Count Basie Theatre

3/7 - 8/08
Schenectady, NY
Proctors Theatre

3/9/08
Ithaca, NY
State Theatre

5/26-6/1
Los Angles, CA
Wilshire Theater

6/10-6/15
Austin, TX
Long Center for the performing Arts

6/18
San Louis Obispo, CA

6/20-6/22
Modesto, CA
Gallo Center for the Arts

6/27-6/29
Yountville, CA
Lincoln Theater

Love, Janis - Houston, TX

Wed, 16 Jan 2008 15:20:37 -0800

Her words. Her story. Her music.
LOVE, JANIS
Conceived, Adapted and Directed by Randal Myler
Inspired by the book "Love, Janis" by Laura Joplin
Music Direction by Sam Andrew
Previews start January 11
Opens January 16
Ends February 10
Hubbard Stage
 Groups of 10 call 713-315-3346 for discounts
Recommended for mature audiences. A musical about Janis Joplin, Port Arthur, Texas’ most famous daughter, Love, Janis goes behind the music of the legendary rock/blues singer. Following her life from 1966 until her death in 1970, Love, Janis features performances of many of her smash hits: “Piece of My Heart,” “Me and Bobby McGee,” “Mercedes Benz” and “Ball and Chain” resulting in a compelling portrait of an artist who wanted to be remembered for her music and her refusal to compromise. Read more about Janis Joplin here.

"Tribute to a legend." Read the Houston Chronicle preview.

"(Singer) Mary Bridget...totally rocked my world." Read the Houston Chronicle story.

A John Denver Holiday Concert - Kansas City, MO - Seattle, WA

Sat, 24 Nov 2007 15:46:52 -0800

A John Denver Holiday Concert

Created by Randal Myler  and Dan Wheetman  Directed by Randal Myler
Copaken Stage
Nov. 24-Dec. 2, 2007
SPECIAL EVENT-Not a part of the regular season subscription

Launch the holiday season with the perfect entertainment for the entire family. From the creator and director who brought you Love, Janis, Ain't Nothin' but the Blues and Hank Williams: Lost Highway comes a nostalgic musical event in the style of Denver's popular Christmas specials. This holiday musical revue features modern and traditional Christmas carols, and some of John Denver's most memorable hits including "Thank God I'm a Country Boy," "Take Me Home Country Roads," and "Grandma's Feather Bed." The Los Angeles Times said this was "A revue fashioned after the entertainer's TV specials that takes audiences to a much loved place."

Bagley Wright Theatre by Randal Myler and Dan Wheetman December 5 - 24, 2007  Running time: 1 hour 40 minutes, 1 intermission
The Artists
Director
Randal Myler
Musical Director
Dan Wheetman
Lighting Designer
Don Darnutzer
Sound Designer
Eric Stahlhammer

The Cast (in alphabetical order)
Follow the Links below to the artists websites.
Vocalist
Gail Bliss
Musician
Denny Brooks
Musician
Nova Devoni
Musician
David P. Jackson
Musician
David Miles Keenan
Musician
Dan Wheetman

Production
Production Supervisor
Michael B. Paul

Act I
Christmas For Cowboys - Dan
Aspenglow - Denny
Back Home Again - Gail
Deck the Halls - Denny
Mary Boy Child - Gail
Silent Night - Denny
Noel, Christmas Eve: 1913 - Gail
Perhaps Love - Denny
Please Daddy Don't Get Drunk For Christmas - Dan
Grandma's Feather Bed - Dan, Denny and Gail
Matthew - Dan
Thank God I'm A Country Boy - Denny

Act II
Take Me Home Country Roads - Gail
Annie's Song - Denny
Alfie the Christmas Tree - Dan
Carol of the Trees - Gail
What Child Is This? - Gail
Rudolf the Red Nose Reindeer - Denny
The Christmas Wish - Dan
The Peace Carol - Gail
Rudolf the Red Nose Reindeer - Denny
Poems, Prayers and Promises - Dan
A Baby Just Like You - Denny
Sweet Surrender - Gail
I Want to Live - Denny

Altar Boyz - Cincinnati, OH

Tue, 16 Oct 2007 15:05:54 -0700

View Photos of the Rig
Altar Boyz  Book by Kevin Del Aguila Music and lyrics by Gary Adler and Michael Patrick Walker Conceived by Marc Kessler and Ken Davenport October 16 – November 16, 2007
On the last night of their “Raise the Praise” U.S. tour, the Altar Boyz are coming to Cincinnati to rock the masses of all denominations! Join Matthew, Mark, Luke, Juan and Abraham (he’s Jewish) as they attempt to save souls and raise spirits with their spectacular music, sensational dancing and uncanny ability to drop the funk in freaky five-part harmony. Sharing a message of tolerance, love and the power of good hair products, this is one boy band manufactured in heaven! A critically acclaimed hit in New York, where it’s still running, Altar Boyz won the 2005 Outer Critics Circle Award for Best Off-Broadway Musical.
“This sweet-natured spoof can lift the spirits of even the most jaded theatergoer. Praise be.” — New York Magazine

Cast:
Michael Kadin Craig - Matthew
Adam Fleming - Luke
Mauricio Perez - Juan
Shua Potter - Mark
Ravi Roth - Abraham
Production Team: Stafford Arima - Director Henry Palkes - Musical Director Christopher Gattelli - Choreographer Anna Louizos - Set Designer Alejo Vietti - Costume Designer Ben Stanton - Lighting Designer Eric Stahlhammer - Sound Designer Gary Adler and Michael Patrick Walker - Vocal Arrangements Doug Katsaros and Lynne Shankel - Orchestrations Lynne Shankel - Dance Music and Additional Arrangements

Dirty Rotten Scoundrels National Tour

Tue, 25 Sep 2007 15:30:55 -0700

Website:

http://www.dirtyrottentour.com/

Tour Schedule:

DAYTON, OH Schuster Center 09.25.07 - 09.30.07
DENVER, CO Buell Theatre 10.16.07 - 10.28.07
SPOKANE, WA INB Performing Arts Center 10.30.07 - 11.04.07
NORFOLK, VA Chrysler Hall 11.13.07 - 11.18.07
GRAND RAPIDS, MI Broadway Grand Rapids 11.20.07 - 11.25.07
BIRMINGHAM, AL BJCC Concert Hall 11.27.07 - 12.02.07
KALAMAZOO, MI Miller Auditorium 12.05.07 - 12.06.07
WATERBURY, CT Palace Theater 12.08.07 - 12.09.07
INDIANAPOLIS, IN Clowes Memorial Hall 12.11.07 - 12.16.07
NASHVILLE, TN Tennessee Performing Arts Center 01.08.08 - 01.13.08
PANAMA CITY, FL Marina Civic Center 01.17.08
HUNTSVILLE, AL Von Braun Center 01.18.08 - 01.20.08
FT. LAUDERDALE, FL Broward Center 01.29.08 - 02.10.08
GAINESVILLE, FL Curtis M. Phillips Center 02.12.08 - 02.13.08
SYRACUSE, NY Crouse-Hinds Theatre 02.19.08 - 02.21.08
ERIE, PA Warner Theatre 02.22.08
YORK, PA Pullo Family PAC 02.23.08
BINGHAMTON, NY The Forum Theatre 02.24.08
BURLINGTON, VT Flynn Center 02.25.08
SCHENECTADY, NY Proctors Theatre 02.26.08 - 03.02.08
WAUSAU, WI Grand Theatre 03.04.08 - 03.05.08
IOWA CITY, IA Hancher Auditorium 03.07.08 - 03.08.08
LINCOLN, NE Lied Center 03.10.08 - 03.12.08
ORANGE, TX Lutcher Theater 03.14.08
TYLER, TX Cowan Performing Arts Center 03.15.08
MEMPHIS, TN Orpheum Theatre 03.18.08 - 03.23.08

Creative:
JEFFREY LANE (Book) DAVID YAZBEK (Composer/Lyricist) PHILIP WM. MCKINLEY (Director) VINCE PESCE (Choreographer)
TED SPERLING (Music Director, Incidental Music Arranger, Co-Vocal Music Arranger) DAVID ROCKWELL (Scenic Design) GREGG BARNES (Costume Design) PHILIP WATSON (Lighting Design) ERIC STAHLHAMMER (Sound Design) DAVE CLEMMONS CASTING (Casting) DAVID RUTTURA (Assistant Director). STEPHEN BOURNEUF (Associate Choreographer). JACK O'BREIN (Original Production Director). HAROLD WHEELER (Orchestrations) KEITH LEVENSON (Music Supervisor, additional Vocal Arrangements and Orchestrations) KEVIN CASEY (Conductor). COLUMBIA ARTIST THEATRICALS, LLC (Tour Direction) TMG-THE MARKETING GROUP (Tour Marketing). PAUL M. RAMBACHER (General Manager) GRETCHEN PFARRER (Associate General Manager) BRIDGET WELTY (Production Manager). DEE WICKERT (Stage Manager). 2LUCK CONCEPTS (Producer).

33 to Nothing - New York, NY

Thu, 19 Jul 2007 12:28:31 -0700

The Wild Project  New York, New York

Taking place during one alcohol laced rehearsal, 33 to Nothing rocks hard and breaks hearts. This downtown NYC garage band is on the edge of breaking-up as the lead singer and his boyfriend (also in the band) are, er, breaking-up. With each year that passes that they aren't rock stars the incessant pull of adulthood becomes harder to ignore. With more axes to grind than grinding the ax is it even worth staying together? All of the actor’s play their own instruments and all of the musicians act their own lines in this high-octane rock drama guaranteed to remind you that you, too, could have been a famous rocker, if only …

CAST Preston Clarke Ken Forman  John B. Good Amanda Gruss  Grant James Varjas
CREATIVE Grant James Varjas - Writer Randal Myler - Director Keith Levenson - Musical Director 

News:

New York City Opens First Eco-Friendly Theatre by Adam Hetrick 28 June 2007
New York City and the Off Off-Broadway community will christen the city's first "green" theatre when The Wild Project revives its production of 33 to Nothing. After a sold-out engagement in 2006, Grant James Varjas' play with music, 33 to Nothing, will begin an open-ended run with previews beginning July 19 and an official opening set for July 25. Click here for the full article.
 
Flailing Through Life With Songs, Love and Breakups Gwen Orel Published March 14, 2006
"33 to Nothing" has a good beat. You can dance to it. Or, at least, nod your head to its downtown Bowie-cum-Coldplay groove. Labeled a "play with music," this latest production from the Argo Theater Company about a band's breakup is a cross between a play and a house concert. Although some of the best musicians don't act very well, and some of the best actors have more attitude than musical chops, it's a lively experiment that combines heartache, humor and powerful songs. Click here for the full review.

Helen Shaw Time Out New York / Issue 546: March 16–22, 2006
Breaking up is hard to do. That goes double if you’re a band. And as anyone from Fleetwood Mac or ABBA could tell you, busting up romantically while breaking up as a band is difficult on an intergalactic scale. So when the rock combo in Grant James Varjas’s adorable 33 to Nothing starts pulling apart during a vodka-fueled rehearsal, we know the five bandmates are in for a hard day (and the attendant hard night). Click here for the full review.
 March 08, 2006 By Andy Propst  While I am not sure the world needs another play with a gay central character who is a sexually ravenous alcoholic and fears commitment, Grant James Varjas' 33 to Nothing does present this stereotype in a somewhat fresh light. Click here for full review
SoulSurfing
April 7, 2006
Grant James Varjas' new play, "33 to Nothing" is set in a rehearsal studio in Hoboken. Running through April (Bottle Factory Theater, 193 East 3rd), it explores the lifeworld of the rehearsal studio through musical performance and theater. We watch as an indie band disintegrates. Directed by John Good, the performance offers a snapshot of familiar cultural history to the millions of unsigned bands that erupted after punk liberated the means of production for the kids. Signed or unsigned, our musical tribes offer members a vision of possibility, a reason to live. Click here for full review.

Off Broadway Theatre Goes Green  Wild Project Makes Venue Eco-friendly  
by Sam Thielman
June 27, 2007

Off Broadway is going green: The recently remodeled Wild Project (formerly the Bottle Factory Theater) on the Lower East Side will include low-flush toilets, rooftop solar panels and organic concessions in its new incarnation. The theater will also use an eco-friendly ZAP car in its advertising. Click here for full article.

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Fire On The Mountain - Skokie, IL

Wed, 9 May 2007 12:22:23 -0700

Northlight Theatre Skokie, IL

by Randal Myler and Dan Wheetman
directed by Randal Myler
May 9 – June 17

From the acclaimed creators of It Ain’t Nothin’ But the Blues comes a poignant, passionate musical about the lives of coal miners in the Appalachian Mountains, featuring Mississippi Charles Bevel (Jeff Award-winner for Blues) and Dan Wheetman (former fiddle player for John Denver).

Alternately exuberant and soulful, joyous and gripping, this celebration of culture, lifestyle, hardships and heroics is gloriously relayed through the captivating rhythms of Appalachian bluegrass—a uniquely American art form that gained widespread popularity following the release of the film O Brother, Where Art Thou?

Featuring authentic dancing, plus stunning fiddle and banjo licks and more than 30 songs, this spiritual triumph is sure to set spirits soaring.

Photo Credit:
Dan Wheetman and Tony Marcus in the Denver Center Theatre Company's production of Fire on the Mountain. Photo by Terry Shapiro

Love, Janis - Tuscon-Phoenix, AZ

Thu, 22 Mar 2007 12:19:53 -0700

Conceived & adapted by Randal Myler
Inspired by the book, “Love, Janis” by Laura Joplin

Tucson March 22 – April 9, 2007
Phoenix April 14 – May 13, 2007

There are blues singers, hippies and rock stars…then there’s Janis Joplin. She gave a piece of her heart with every song and her powerful voice and explosive presence electrified a generation. Crafted from Janis’ letters home to her family, her journey from small-town girl to rock-and-roll icon comes alive in this thrilling musical by the creator of Hank Williams: Lost Highway. All her biggest hit songs from “Me and Bobby McGee” to “Ball and Chain” are woven with glimpses of her internal life, creating a complex portrait of the queen of the Summer of Love. A rocking Arizona premiere of this international hit!
Contains loud music (of course!)

From the ATC Website:
News, Notes and Next from Arizona Theatre Company Winter 2007 Volume XX - No. 3

Insights from Michael Joplin  "Janis had an incredible sense of humor, and she always wanted people to feel good about themselves."

Regarding Janis, by Baron Wolman, photographer  "In the late sixties Janis was still in her early twenties. She was a complex woman but in many respects still a young girl. I always tried to bring out that "little girl" side of her, tried to make her smile, tried to uncover the innocence that hovered just below the hard-driving singer superstar she was to become."

Janis Joplin biography  "Janis Lyn Joplin was born January 19, 1943 and died October 4, 1970. In between she led a triumphant and tumultuous life blessed by an innate talent to convey powerful emotion through heart-stomping rock-and-roll singing."

 Official Website
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Pure Confidence - Denver, CO

Thu, 22 Mar 2007 12:18:04 -0700

The Stage Theatre Denver, CO

Pure Confidence
March 22, 2007 -- April 21, 2007
by Carlyle Brown
Directed by Kent Gash
March 22 - April 21, 2007
(Opening March 29)
The Stage Theatre

The high stakes world of Civil War-era horse racing is the stage for this riveting drama of slavery and Reconstruction. Both Simon Cato, a smart, cocky “colored” jockey, and his horse, Pure Confidence, are owned by Colonel Wiley Johnson. Cato uses his wits and his championship winnings to buy his and his wife’s freedom. But the Civil War changes everything and the passage of time doesn’t bring Cato the success he expects. A surprisingly funny, daring and emotionally moving look at the complexity of race, humanity, love and dignity in the second half of the 19th century. Pure Confidence was the favorite pick of the Humana Festival in 2005.
"One surefire crowd-pleaser." — The New York Times
Pure Confidence runs approximately 2 hours and 10 minutes, including one 20-minute intermission.

Black jockey races to win freedom in time of slavery
**** RATING
By Bob Bows
Special to The Denver Post
Article Last Updated: 04/05/2007 12:23:53 AM MDT

Heather Alicia Simms, left, and Maureen Silliman star in the Denver Center Theatre Company production of "Pure Confidence," the surprisingly funny tale of a Civil War jockey. It's at the Stage Theatre in the Denver Performing Arts Complex through April 21. (Terry Shapiro )
Like empires before it, America established and furthered itself through slavery, its most insidious form being the kidnapping and importation of Africans. Blacks, of course, weren't the only human chattel (consider the legal status of women), but nothing was as profane as that "peculiar institution" that ruled over them.
Of the multitude of stories written about slavery, "Pure Confidence," the current production from the pen of Carlyle Brown ("The African Company Presents Richard III," "The Little Tommy Parker Celebrated Colored Minstrel Show") now at the Denver Center Theatre Company, is unique in its brave, bold humor and insights to the personal details of the relationships between owners and slaves.
Based on the life of the greatest pre-Civil War horse racing jockey, the story cuts a swath from the bluegrass of Kentucky to the bluebloods of Saratoga, N.Y., following Simon Cato's quest for freedom and his unusually fluent relationships with his owner and other whites who were sustained by his athletic talent and horse sense.
In a riveting performance, Gavin Lawrence brings together in Simon the bravado and creativity of a spirit driven to be his own man in a world that conspires against such aspirations from people of color. Overflowing with a zest for life and all its possibilities, Simon carries us full circle in his pursuit, discovering deeper truths about freedom than he ever imagined.
His journey is sometimes aided, sometimes hindered, by his owner, Col. Wiley "The Fox" Johnson, rendered to perfection by Philip Pleasants. From the coiffed white mane and goatee down to the mellifluous drawl, Pleasants imbues the colonel with archetypal forces, mixing the empowerment of an aristocrat with the instincts and smarts of a horse breeder and trader. But he, too, has a boss.
In a nod to the feminine pillars that upheld Southern gentility, the colonel's wife, Mattie Johnson, rules the household with a mix of devious cunning and Solomonic wisdom.
Though draped in Austin K. Sanderson's lavish antebellum dresses, Maureen Silliman cuts through any stereotypes we may associate with such trappings and delivers Mattie with a heart big enough to overcome generations of intolerance and inertia, eventually becoming a true friend to her one-time slave and confidant, Caroline.
During a theatrical moment that sets "Pure Confidence" apart in its contribution to racial healing, Mattie is confronted by Caroline over the nature of their relationship. In what must go down as one of the most pregnant silences in stage history, Mattie and Caroline's past and future come to a head after Caroline describes the sale of slaves in Savannah and asks Mattie if she knows what happened to "her people" - her parents and siblings.
Silliman's incrementally detailed gestation and poignant response slams the door on bigotry in an exquisite personal realization inclusive of all perpetrators coming to grips with their own victimization.
Heather Alicia Simms harnesses deep-seated power and dignity in the statuesque and patient Caroline, whose regal disposition and eloquent brevity are catalysts for moving the mountains of racial and gender prejudice. It's fitting that her final, humorous observation draws the play to a close.
Director Kent Gash's finely-tuned ensemble is topped off - and the Kentucky and Saratoga scenes rounded out - by deft turns from Mike Hartman, as a horse racing rival and hotel clerk, and David Ivers as the auctioneer and the reporter. Emily Beck's alternately impressionistic and realistic sets complement the play's arc. So do Liz Lee's subtle lighting contributions and Eric Stahlhammer's telling musical choices.
Brown's take on the intimacies and friendships that developed between slaves and owners may not be new, but the scope and originality he gives such details surpass any script on the subject - his use of the n-word notwithstanding, which comes across as a natural part of the dialogue and critical element of the play's accuracy. It may be as difficult for some audience members to accept the truth of such relationships and language as it was for the Colonel and Mattie to overcome their own biases, but there's no denying that the playwright has captured the living, breathing essence of history.
Bob Bows also reviews theater for Variety, for KUVO/89.3 FM, and for his own website. He can be reached at BBows@coloradodrama.com. Visit his website at coloradodrama.com.

| "Pure Confidence"
DRAMA|Denver Center Theatre Company|Written by Carlyle Brown|Directed by Kent Gash|Starring Gavin Lawrence, Philip Pleasants, Maureen Silliman and Heather Alicia Simms|THROUGH APRIL 21|At the Space Theatre, Denver Performing Arts Complex|6:30 p.m. Mondays-Wednesdays, 8 p.m. Thursdays-Fridays, 1:30 and 8 p.m. Saturdays|2 hours, 25 minutes|$36-$46|303-893-4100, 866-464-2626, all King Soopers or denver center.org; 800-641-1222 outside Denver

 Official Website

Fire On The Mountain - Seattle, WA

Thu, 22 Feb 2007 12:15:33 -0800

Bagley Wright Theatre Seattle, WA

BAGLEY WRIGHT THEATRE
Fire on the Mountain
by Randal Myler and Dan Wheetman
February 22 – March 24, 2007
From the acclaimed creators of It Ain't Nothin' But the Blues comes a poignant, passionate musical about the lives of coal miners in the Appalachian Mountains. Alternately exuberant and mournful, joyous and gripping, Fire on the Mountain is nothing short of a spiritual triumph. The stories of the people of this extraordinary culture are told in the bluegrass rhythms of a uniquely American art form. Beloved from its birth in Appalachia, it gained widespread popularity following the release of O Brother, Where Art Thou? With Mississippi Charles Bevel (Jeff Award-winner for Blues) and Dan Wheetman (former fiddle player for John Denver) this celebration of culture, lifestyle, hardships and heroics is sure to set spirits soaring

News:
Wednesday, February 28, 2007
Fire On The Mountain - Seattle Repertory Theater

Fire on the Mountain
Seattle Repertory Theater
Feb. 22 - March 24 2007
Call (206) 443-2222 for Tickets & Information

Via the mesh of a History Channel-esque documentary and an Austin City Limit Special, Fire on the Mountain at The Seattle Repertory Theatre was a delightful blend of Bluegrass beginnings and narrative history of coal miners. With the backing of superb costume, set, light and sound design, the multi-talented cast, comprised mostly of folk musicians, was able to carry the show, which consisted mostly of folk music numbers, with narrative interludes. To match aural stimulus with visual, a nearly continuous slide show consisting of genuine pictures from mining days of 20th century America provided authenticity to the “story” of the characters.
The story itself was a bit general, only gaining specificity partway through when reference is made to the death of a coal-mining father/husband, and the performers begin to take on more consistent characters. From here, also, a more remorseful tone takes over what had been a previously up-beat show. The entire show played within those two moods—the songs presenting the dichotomy of a miner who is proud of his work and yet knows the dangers of it, the genre ranging from blues to bluegrass, folksy to almost Celtic, reflecting the various roots of the Appalachian people. The folk musicians presenting this story were an exceptionally talented ensemble, playing their instruments and singing with gusto; and the harmonies they built together were astounding. “Mississippi” Charles Bevel, in particular, was an incredible singer, though certainly everyone in the cast carried their part very well. (It was also enjoyable to see several older actors on stage, an age range that does not often happen.)
The design elements were as beautiful and harmonious as the music was, each working perfectly with the other and evoking the time and place very well. Vicki Smith’s set was created of wood beams and corrugated metal, suggesting a small-town meeting hall, with the addition of two large framed screens, on which the slides (designed by Randal Myler) were projected. Marcia Dixcy Jory’s costumes were similar, blue collar attire consisting of denim, flannel, overalls and cotton dresses. The lighting (Don Darnutzer) and sound (Eric Stahlhammer) were more subtle. The sound design mostly consisted in the miking of the voices and instruments, but that was flawless; and one song, by a miner trapped in a cave-in, had a haunting echo added to his voice. The lighting delicately followed the music, bring up highlights over each musician during a solo (but never distractingly), or lighting a storyteller with a spotlight, always in soft, warm colors that matched the browns of the set.
Although the show is well-put together, all the elements are well-executed, and the singers are superb, the show may not be for everyone. It is almost constant folk music, so if that genre is not something you like, the show will probably not be either. However, if you do enjoy folk music, this show presents it in an extremely enjoyable format; and if you are not familiar with folk music, this is the show to introduce yourself to it; you will be caught up in the talent and the verve of the musicians and the detailed and exceptional production.
Review by Lia Morgan & Phoebe Hopkins
POSTED BY LIA MORGAN AT 11:28 PM

 Official Website
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Love, Janis - Kansas City, MO

Fri, 2 Feb 2007 12:13:03 -0800

Love, Janis
Conceived & adapted by Randal Myler - directed by Randal Myler Inspired by the book "Love, Janis" by Laura Joplin
Copaken Stage-13th & Walnut
Feb. 2-Mar. 18, 2007 Kansas City Premiere

“Try just a little bit harder.” No other words could as aptly describe the life of rock and roll legend Janis Joplin. Her strong spirit and commanding music will explode onto the Rep's brand new downtown stage in this musical tribute to a 60's icon who lived hard and died young. Based upon letters to her family and actual press interviews, this powerful biography takes you into the mind of the superstar. Her passion and energy became the voice for a generation that was fervent, idealistic, confused and eager for change. Forty years later her music is still so powerful and full of drive that you won't need to be a Joplin fan to see why the New York Post said Love, Janis is "an enormously crowd-pleasing hit.”
Contains strong language, sexual references and drug abuse.
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Pure Confidence - Cincinnati, OH

Tue, 16 Jan 2007 12:10:37 -0800

Marx Theatre Cincinnati, OH

Pure Confidence
By Carlyle Brown
Jan. 16 - Feb. 16, 2007
On the eve of the Civil War when black jockeys, though slaves, dominated the sport of horse racing, Simon Cato consistently wins riding prize thoroughbred Pure Confidence. Brash, smart and funny, Simon plans to use his success to buy his freedom from slavery. With a vivid backdrop of fast horses, gritty racetracks and high stakes betting, Pure Confidence is an extraordinary tale of human triumphs and failings that explores the true meaning of freedom.
"One surefire crowd-pleaser." — The New York Times
Pure Confidence runs approximately 2 hours and 10 minutes, including one 20-minute intermission.

 Official Website
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Back Home again: A John Denver Holiday Concert - Ventura and Walnut Creek, CA

Thu, 30 Nov 2006 12:06:44 -0800

Folks are carrying on about  "John Denver: A Holiday Concert":

"CRITICS' PICK! This entrancing revue by Randal Myler and Dan Wheetman, fashioned after John Denver's annual Christmas specials, plies its wares with fetching simplicity. Dulcet singers Jim Newman and Gail Bliss and a festive band find the essential humanity within concept and material, which produces the lingering glow of an instant seasonal classic."  - David C. Nichols, Los Angeles Times
“True holiday spirit…the Rubicon should be on your yuletide celebration list.” – Ted Mills, Santa Barbara News Press
“John Denver will fill your evening with holiday cheer…irresistible warmth and joy” – Rita Moran, Ventura County Star
“With Back Home Again , it is the spirit of Denver that takes center stage…we all might just be able to go home and discover we are a country boy, or girl, at heart.” – Broadway World.com

Created by Randal Myler and Dan Wheetman
Directed by Randal Myler
Musical Direction by Dan Wheetman
Lighting Design by Don Darnutzer
Scenic Design by Trefoni Rizzi
Sound Design by Eric Stahlhammer
Stage Management by Linda M. Tross

Starring Gail Bliss, Doug Clegg, David P. Jackson, Jim Newman and Dan Wheetman

Come home for the holidays! Rubicon Theatre presents Back Home Again: A John Denver Holiday Concert, featuring modern and traditional Christmas carols, and some of John Denver's most memorable hits including "Thank God I'm a Country Boy," "Grandma's Feather Bed," and the title song. This perfect entertainment for the whole family transports you back in time to a place where life is sweet, simple, and full of promise. The cast is led by Tony-nominee Dan Wheetman, a world-class picker 'n fiddler. Other performers include Broadway veteran Jim Newman (The Who's Tommy, Steel Pier, Sunset Blvd.) and acclaimed Nasville singer Gail Bliss. Bring back the memories, or share them with your loved ones for the very first time.
Back Home Again is presented in the style of John Denver's popular Christmas specials, and promises to transport you back in time to a place where life is simple, and sweet, and full of promise! Musical selections include traditional and modern Christmas carols along with such popular Denver hits as "Thank God I'm a County Boy,” "Grandma's Feather Bed" and "Back Home Again."

 Official Website
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Hank Williams: Lost Highway - San Diego, CA

Sat, 11 Nov 2006 12:03:53 -0800

Lyceum Theater San Diego, CA

A musical by Randal Myler and Mark Harelik
Directed by Randal Myler

November 11, 2006 - December 17, 2006

"It’s 1949. You’re cozy in your seat at the Grand Ole Opry, expecting a foot-stomping good time. The Father of Country Music moseys on up to the mic, a pedal steel guitar moans, and a voice so full of pain and beauty that it sends chills down your spine fills the theater with poetry and music. Your breath is snatched away as Hank Williams wraps his music around you." (Arizona Daily Star) Directed by award-winning REP favorite Randal Myler (Love, Janis; It Ain’t Nothin’ But the Blues), starring acclaimed actor Van Zeiler as Hank. A musical that tells the legendary songwriter’s heartbreaking story with more than twenty all-time favorites including, “I’m so Lonesome I Could Cry,” “Your Cheatin’ Heart,” and “Hey Good Lookin’.”
"Great fun... absolutely delightful” NY Times
 Official Website
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Fire On The Mountain - Sarasota, FL

Wed, 4 Oct 2006 12:00:07 -0700

Fire On The Mountain by Randal Myler & Dan Wheetman
A poignant, passionate musical about the lives of true American Heroes in their own words. The amazing story of Appalachian coal miners is presented through the art of the folk and bluegrass music of the area. Fire On The Mountain is a celebration of culture and heroics that sets spirits soaring with the sounds of an inspirational group of people.
Begins Oct. 4, 2006 (Plays for 9 weeks)

Florida Studio Theatre Main Stage Official Website
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Love, Janis - San Francisco, CA

Fri, 7 Jul 2006 11:55:55 -0700

Produced by Columbia Artists Theatricals.

Marines Memorial Theatre

Website: http://www.lovejanisthemusical.com/