review PANDORA FESTIVAL - Arizona Women's Theatre Company

"Three short plays, staged readings of works in progress by women playwrights, are the centerpiece of Arizona Women's Theatre Company's Eighth Annual Pandora Festival ~ a rich and much-needed opportunity to channel their creative voices.  Vegetal Salvaje (transl. Wild Vegetables), written by Bernadette LaMazza and directed by Deborah Lee Hall, is an over-the-top spoof on a madcap telenovela, rooted in a sexy, vegetarian, romantic cooking show and featuring a wildly engaging cast of bravado characters, each a celebrity in his/her own mind.   Hira Ismail's Minute Decisions, directed by Bryanna Patrick, is a delicately balanced dialogue between the prospective partners in an arranged marriage. Maira (Corina Guerrero) and Imran (Matthew Contreras) have twenty minutes in which to probe the questions that are at the heart of enduring relationships ~ the questions that, in the normal course of typical courtships are rarely asked and may not, until much later in the game, ever be asked.
Wrapping up the trio of plays is The Interview, written by Mary Caroline Rogers and directed by Carolyn McBurney. The dramedy is a painfully honest profile of an applicant for an administrative position being callously and dismissively assaulted with a barrage of questions clearly designed to be discriminatory and exclusionary. To too many this is too familiar a protocol. This important set of offerings continues its Festival run at the Phoenix Center for the Arts (Third Street Theatre) through February 1st." - Herbert Paine, Broadway World (click here to read the complete review.)

ticket discount - Brelby's ShowGo- this weekend only save 50% off your first two months!

From our friends at Brelby - a special discount on their ingenious new ShowGo membership plan- unlimited access to every show Brelby offers - it's like NetFlix for Theatre Goers!

In honor of this weekend's big game, Brelby is offering a special for ShowGO. 

If you sign up in person or online, you can get your first two months at 1/2 the cost! 
Sign up today, and join the ShowGO community.  

Click here to order your ShowGo now!.

audition notice - SHREK - Desert Stages Theatre

Auditions for Shrek at Desert Stages Theatre will be held Sunday February 8th at 7pm

Ages 16 years and up

*The role of Young Fiona will be 11 years old and up

Register early online by clicking here to speed up your sign in! 

Please bring head shot and resume

Prepare 16-32 of an upbeat song

Reading and dancing will be done at callbacks.

Directed by Cambrian James

Characters:
Shrek
Fiona
Young Fiona
Donkey
Dragon
Gingy
Lord Farquaad
Pinocchio
Ensemble:
FAIRYTALE CREATURES (BIG BAD WOLF, THREE LITTLE PIGS, WHITE RABBIT, FAIRY
GODMOTHER, PETER PAN, WICKED WITCH, UGLY DUCKLING, THREE BEARS, MAD
HATTER, HUMPTY DUMPTY, ELF, DWARF, THREE BLIND MICE); ANGRY MOB; HAPPY
PEOPLE; GUARDS; KNIGHTS; RATS

review FOOTLOOSE Actor's Youth Theatre

Kale Burr as Ren and Jessie Jo Pauley as Ariel

Photo: Chris Bowler

For more information on this production, that runs through Saturday, January 31st, click here.

"Full of toe-tapping tunes and nuanced roles, almost all of which are high school aged, it's easy to see why the musical Footloose is so consistently performed by youth groups, even though it's been thirty years since the movie was a box office smash. With a cast of talented high school kids, the Actor's Youth Theatre production, which just ended its two week run, was an energetic blast...The production was well cast with a group of gifted young actors and singers, led by Kale Burr as Ren and Jessie Jo Pauley as Ariel. The energy that Burr brought to the part of Ren was refreshing and addicting. Pauley was appropriately wise, smart, and sassy as the girl who knows what she needs to do to get what she wants, yet she also brought an aching sweetness and desperation to the role of a girl who is simply trying to find her place in life. Burr and Pauley also made a completely realistic couple. As Reverend Moore, Jonah Carlson was the best of the group in both acting and singing capabilities. His sense of compassion and understanding was superb, bringing a keen sense of sympathy to the part. Director and choreographer Mackenzie Mitchell gave her hard working cast plenty to do throughout the production, achieving excellent portrayals from them, and her spirited, non-stop choreography was a lot of fun. Footloose, with its big message about the need to fit in and the desire to change people's lives for the better, is a perfect fit for a youth theatre group. With clear direction, spirited choreography, and some very talented leads and supporting actors, the AYT production was an energetic, fun filled joy. " - Gil Benbrook, Talkin' Broadway (click here to read the full review)

Free "Audiences Everywhere" workshop- perfect for Arts Organization in town to help better understand their audiences

Thanks to our friends at the Theatre Think Tank who told us about this - we're spreading the word about this free seminar:

The Arizona Commission on the Arts is partnering with Audience Avenue to bring Matt Lehrman’s Audiences Everywhere™ workshop to Phoenix and Tucson in February 2015.

Intended for nonprofit arts organizations large and small, Audiences Everywhere‘s whole-organization approach to understanding your audience promises to “blow away conventional wisdom, energize new ways to advance your mission and inspire innovation at every level of your organization.”

What will you learn?
Audiences Everywhere™ presents actionable and thought-provoking lessons, including:
Why it’s necessary to evolve from a “push” to a “pull” paradigm for engaging audiences,
Who is “our audience?” Recognizing audience personas,
How social media meaningfully connects audiences to your organization’s mission,
Where and when to make audience-building a priority for everyone in your organization,
What is the bottom line of audience engagement – and how to improve it immediately and dramatically!

Who should attend?
Organizations large and small and from every arts and cultural genre; executive directors, artistic directors, curators, development and marketing professionals and board members.

When and Where?

Tucson, AZ
February 10, 2015, 1:00 – 4:00 PM
Arizona Theatre Company Cabaret, Temple of Music and Art

Phoenix, AZ
February 11, 2015, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Singer Hall, Phoenix Art Museum

How much does it cost?
Thanks in part to the sponsorship of Patron Technology, Audience Avenue and the Arizona Commission on the Arts, we are pleased to offer these workshops free of charge to those who register in advance.

How do I register?
Click here to register today!

reviews - RENT - Spotlight Youth Theatre

 "For a youth theatre to seriously attempt the adult themed production and recreate the musical as is – no cuts, no self-censorship; everything intact just as it was on Broadway including f-bombs and some overtly sexual moves – is a bold move to say the least, but to pull it off with the amount of success that this talented group of young performers have done is a considerable achievement.   There are rough patches – how could there not be with such an ambitious and demanding project such as Rent? – but the end result is quite remarkable." -David Appleford, Valley Screen and Stage (click here to read the complete review)

"with an extremely talented group of kids, mostly all of whom are in high school, this young group of performers shows they are more than capable of bringing this very adult story to vibrant life. The eagerness of the young Spotlight cast makes them all quite effective in their portrayals of these young starving artists from 1990.  Rent proves that even when performed by a talented group of teenagers, and a few kids in their very early 20's, that it is still an enjoyable and emotionally effective piece of theatre with an energetic and timeless score.  Spotlight's production of this well-loved musical is first rate." -Gil Benbrook, Talkin' Broadway (click here to read the complete review)

For more information on this production that runs through Sunday February 1st, click here.

audition notice LAUGHTER ON THE 23RD FLOOR - Fountain Hills Theater - Feb. 14

AUDITIONS For Laughter on the 23rd Floor

Saturday, Feb. 14 @ 1:00pm & Sunday, Feb. 15 @ 6:00pm

Callbacks:  Sunday, Feb. 15 following auditions  

Rehearsals begin:  Monday, Feb. 16   

Production dates:  Friday, March 20 – April 5

Auditioners should prepare to read cold from the script. 

AT FOUNTAIN HILLS COMMUNITY THEATER
11445 N. Saguaro Blvd. in Fountain Hills, AZ
(11/2 miles north of Shea Blvd. on Saguaro at the corner of Rand and Saguaro)


Inspired by the playwright's youthful experience as a staff writer on Sid Caesar's Your Show of Shows, with all the attendant comic drama as the harried writing staff frantically scrambles to top each other with gags while competing for the attention of star madman "Max Prince".

Cast Requirements:
Lucas Brickman: Mid-twenties, newest writer on the staff 
Milt Fields: 30’s, Quick witted 
Val Skolsky:  30’s/40’s, Senior member of the writing staff, Russian 
Brian Doyle:  30’s, Heavy smoker, only gentile in the group 
Kenny Franks: 30’s, The most sophisticated writer 
Max Prince:  30’s/40’s, Star of the Max Prince show, he dominates a room 
Ira Stone:  20’s/30’s, Loud, attention getter
Helen:  20’s, Max’s secretary
Carol Wyman: 30’s, Only female writer on the staff

Call for an appointment 480-837-9661 x3, or email play@fhtaz.org 

audition notice WITNESS FOR THE PROSECUTION Desert Stages Theatre - Feb 4

Witness for the Prosecution by Agatha Christie

Directed by Jere Van Patten

Leonard Vole is accused of murdering elderly, wealthy widow Mrs. Emily French. His lawyer is convinced of his innocence until the will is read revealing a substantial bequest to Leonard. This brilliant Agatha Christie courtroom drama is filled with suspenseful plot twists that hold up still today. The climax is so startling that audiences should swear under oath not to reveal it.

Auditions will be held on Wednesday February 4th at 7pm with cold readings from the script.

Call backs will be held on Saturday February 7th at 9am.
First read thru will be Sunday February 8th at 5pm

Click here to register online to save time

Please bring a headshot and resume.
WOMEN’S ROLES:
*Greta/Woman Juror – Typist to Sir Wilfred, 18 – 30
Janet Mackenzie – Housekeeper to the late Miss. Emily French, Scottish, 40 – 70
*Romaine/Woman – Leonard Vole’s wife, German, 30 – 45
Girl – Leonard Vole’s girlfriend, 18 - 30
MEN’S ROLES:
Leonard Vole – Likeable, friendly, accused of murdering Miss. Emily French, 25 – 35
*Carter/Judge Wainwright – Sir Wilfred’s Clerk/Judge – 40+
Mayhew – Middle aged solicitor, shrewd and rather dry and precise in manner, 25+
Sir Wilfred Robarts, Q.C. – Counsel for the defense, 45+
*Inspector/Policeman – Homicide detective from Scotland Yard, 30+
*Detective/Myers – Counsel for the prosecution, 45+
*Clerk/Court Usher – 30+
Mr. Thomas Clegg – Assistant in the forensic lab at New Scotland Yard, 30+
Dr. Wyatt – Police surgeon at the Hampstead Division, 30+
* Denotes one actor playing more than one character 

audition notice - ANGELS IN AMERICA - Nearly Naked Theatre

AUDITION NOTICE: AFRICAN-AM/MIXED RACE ROLE IN ANGELS IN AMERICA

NEARLY NAKED THEATRE
is seeking additional candidates for the role of
BELIZE
in ANGELS IN AMERICA: MILLENNIUM APPROACHES

PLEASE NOTE: Angels in America does not perform until JUNE with rehearsals starting in late APRIL.

BELIZE:
(African-American or Mixed Race/Latino: age range 25-35)
A former drag queen and former lover of Prior. A registered nurse. Belize's name was originally Norman Arriaga; "Belize" is a drag-name that stuck.  Loving, "fabulous" and very wise-beyond-his-years.  Also plays Harper's fantasy travel-agent "Mr. Lies"

AUDITIONS
will take place with Callback auditions for ANGELS IN AMERICA on
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 2ND from 6:00pm-10:00pm
and will consist of COLD READS FROM THE SCRIPT.

Sides will be issued in advance to anyone submitting an electronic headshot & resume with their audition appointment request.  If you do not have a headshot and resume, then any picture and a brief summary of experience will so.

REHEARSALS BEGIN
Sunday, April 26th. Four to five nights a week, 6:00pm to 10:00pm

PERFORMANCE DATES
for MILLENNIUM APPROACHES are June 5th - 20th Wed - Sat at 8:00pm and Sundays at 6:00pm or 2:30pm alternating.

APPOINTMENTS
are made by emailing us at castingcouch@nearlynakedtheatre.org
Please include your FULL NAME and PHONE NUMBER in the body of the email.
We prefer actors to submit electronic headshots and resumes, although any picture, even a candid will do.

WE LOOK FORWARD TO SEEING YOU! BREAK-A-LEG!!

NANA'S NAUGHTY KNICKERS - A conversation with Nana and her granddaughter, Sherry Konjura and Louise Keeton

Louise Keeton and Sherry Konjura

by Gil Benbrook

It’s not odd for real married couples to perform together as husband and wife in stage productions, but an actual grandmother and granddaughter playing those roles on stage doesn’t happen that often.  In the Palms Theatre’s production of Nana’s Naughty Knickers, Sherry Konjura and her granddaughter Louise Keeton are having a blast, on stage and off, as the Nana with a secret lingerie company and her granddaughter who discovers the truth about her Nana’s hidden “naughty knicker” business.

While this is the first time they’ve appeared together, it turns out that Sherry and Louise have a long history of appearing on stage with other members of their family.  Sherry has performed with all three of her sons, including Craig, Louise’s father. Their most notable performance, according to Sherry, was when she was “Nurse Ratched” and he was the depressed young mental patient “Billy Bibbitt” in One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest back in 1977.  While Craig is currently a producer at PBS in Richmond, VA he has gotten back into performing again, and even recently appeared in the film Lincoln.  Louise’s parents met in a college production of Our Town and she has appeared with both of them on stage, with her mom “as the Fairy Godmother to my Cinderella and this spring I will be playing Snow White while my Dad plays my Father in the same show.”  Sherry’s husband Gerry also appears in Nana, as well as constructed the sets for the show.  She adds that he’s “my all time favorite actor in the world to be onstage with. I'm proud to call him my partner in life.”

While this is Sherry’s first time directing this show she has appeared in three previous productions of the comedy, having been asked by Nana playwright Katy DiSavino to play the lead role.  She originated the part five years ago when the show premiered at the Rainbow Dinner Theatre, in Lancaster, PA.  Louise first met DiSavino when she visited her grandmother one summer, “we sat backstage and talked about playwrighting and our dreams. She was the first person I had ever met who had the same goals as me. Now I'm an award winning playwright and her play is being performed all over the world. It’s neat to perform in something she created. It’s so full circle.”  While DiSavino hasn't had a chance to see Sherry and Louise in the play together she did see Sherry in the show when it first premiered.

Louise states that the experience of performing with her grandmother was “a once in a life time opportunity. I had to take this chance and I'm so grateful I did. I was impressed by how effortless the process was. We just sort of fell into our roles.  I remember watching her on stage as a little girl and thinking about how I wanted to do that. Now we're doing it together!”

Lois Sharrott, Gerry Konjura, Barbara McBain, Sherry Konjura
Louise Keeton and Toni Kallen 

Having been in the business for a fairly long time, when asked how things have changed since she started out, Sherry is quick to state “this is, and has always been, a business that one cannot get into unless there just simply is no way NOT to be in it! I taught theatre at a University when my boys were growing up and I used to tell my students that if there was ANYTHING else they could do in life that would make them happy, then not to go into acting. One rarely knows what's coming next as far as employment is concerned. That has not changed. As for Dinner Theatre, I see some interesting changes because of the loss of many who used to make up our core audience. So many of the elderly customers who used to love getting on a bus trip to come see a show are gone now...and interests are changing. This creates a challenge for us. As for Louise, she heeded my advice not to limit herself and, as a result, is proficient in many avenues. She can act, write, teach, model just to name a few of her abilities.”

Like Sherry states, and just like Nana in the play, Louise has her own business ventures, though none of them secret or “naughty.” Her play Cinderella: The Fairy Godmother's Tale was the first children's show produced at The Whistle Stop Theatre Company in Ashland, Virginia, where she is the founding artistic director. “One of the audience members came up to me after the show and said I ought to be sending it to festivals.” It was one of four shows to be accepted into the New York Children's Theater Festival.  Louise decided to re-write the Cinderella story from the perspective of the fairy godmother. “In order to get her wings she has to bring Cinderella and the Prince together before midnight without using any magic. I wanted to present a story that let children know if they want to make their dreams come true, don't wait around for a fairy godmother to do it for you. You have power to change your life for the better, with or without magic.”

Louise also has an event company, “Parties by Louise” where she appear as fairytale characters and sings songs, plays games and leads activities. She adds, “transforming into a child's idol, getting to talk to them and then having the opportunity to show them that a princess can be smart, empowered and still have fun is a real joy. “  .

But Sherry also has worn a lot of hats throughout her career and has a long association with the Prather Entertainment Group (PEG) - the original founders of the now Palms Theatre in Mesa - having met family patriarch Tom Prather when he gave her a call-back at an audition in 1984. Sherry adds “He cast me as ‘Ann’ in Forty Carats...then rehired me a couple of months later to do three shows in a row. I've been doing shows with PEG ever since (as well as performing for other companies). and have also worked with the organization on the administrative side over the years” however, this is Sherry's first time doing a show at The Palms Theatre in Mesa.

Toni Kallen, Sherry Konjura and Louise Keeton

The Palms has gone through some significant changes over the past year. While planning the 2013-2014 season, Tom Prather (Prather Entertainment Group (PEG) founder and family patriarch) met Robert Shaw, founder of Lonely Street Productions - an Arizona based nostalgia entertainment company. Impressed by Lonely Street’s offerings and commitment to providing its audience with quality entertainment, Tom forged an immediate bond with Robert and the rest of Lonely Street’s artistic staff.

As the 2013-2014 season progressed, Tom approached Robert and his management team, Andrew Birgensmith and Khris Dodge, and asked that the three take over operations. The partners assumed management duties in August 2014, assembled their team of professionals, and have worked non-stop to prepare the Mesa Palms Theatre for a 14th season full of musicals, concerts and comedies like Nana’s Naughty Knickers.

While at The Palms both Sherry and Louise have had a chance to check out the various shows and concerts also playing in the main stage auditorium while Nana is playing in the smaller Marquis theatre. Sherry states “We saw Robert Shaw (CEO & Executive Producer of The Palms) perform his "Elvis" show and were blown away...wonderful show. And Annie Get Your Gun is a marvelous production....so much talent on that stage! I just wish that we had the opportunity to see more of the concerts. But that is one of the down sides of being an actor...you are busy performing at the same time as all of the people you'd love to see in performance.”

When asked what they’ve both gained from this experience, Sherry states “It has been wonderful. I've watched Louise develop as an accomplished actress for a number of years now and have been so proud of her. When this opportunity came along I was thrilled to have the chance to share a stage with her.” As far as what she’s learned from working together with Louise, “just how very much alike we really are! We have discovered just how easily we fall into the scenes together and how well we play off of each other...it has been a delight!”

Nana’s Naughty Knickers runs through February 7th at the Palms Theatre in Mesa. For information on this production and other shows and concerts playing at The Palms go to https://thepalmstheatre.com

Photo Credit: Toni Kallen Photography 

added shows FIVE PRESIDENTS at Arizona Theatre Company

From our friends at Arizona Theatre Company -

Great news for our Valley-area patrons!

FIVE PRESIDENTS is filling up so fast that we've extended the Phoenix run as well.

The following additional performances have been added:

Tuesday, Feb. 17 @ 7:30 pm
Thursday, Feb. 19 @ 2:00 pm

Desert Stages - Fan Fest event- Jan. 31st at 2pm

Come check out highlights from Desert Stages current and upcoming shows at FanFest this weekend...

reviews - ANNIE GET YOUR FUN - Palms Theatre

"Watching Palms’ new production is like seeing a theatre company that stepped back, took stock of its abilities and decided to approach the year with a new beginning, determined to show the valley what it can really do with its available pool of local talent, and it’s delivered a winner. After a shaky close to 2014, The Palms Theatre has approached 2015 by successfully rising to the challenge of competing with the rest of the valley’s substantial professional theatrical community.  See Annie Get Your Gun.  You should be impressed." -David Appleford, Valley Screen and Stage (click here to read the complete review)

"Director JR Stuart's colorful, fun, and swift moving production stars Aimee Blau-Little and Rob Watson as Annie and Frank. They are both very good, with Blau-Little appropriate as the feisty and rugged yet charmingly attractive tomboy Annie, and Watson a stern and conceited yet loving Frank.  Even with a few very small shortcomings, with an exceptional Irving Berlin score, a gifted cast, and lively creative elements, the Palms' Annie Get Your Gun, while not quite a bull's eye, is still a rip roarin' good time." -Gil Benbrook, Talkin' Broadway (click here to read the complete review)

Actor's Youth Theatre Fundraiser announced - "Broadway Through the Ages" - Feb. 7th

6th Annual Masquerade Ball!
Saturday, February 7, 2015Ages 8-108!
(under 14 must be accompanied by 
their parent) 

There will be a Dinner and Show at 6:00  followed by dancing!
Doors open at 5:30
 

Tickets:
Presale Prices:
$15 Students - 8-18
$20 Adults - 19+ 

At the Door:
$20 Students - 8-18
$25 Adults - 19+ 

Click here for tickets

video- GOD'S FAVORITE - Don Bluth Front Row Theatre

Behind the scenes video for God's Favorite at Don Bluth Front Row Theatre:  - for more information on this production that runs March 3 - April 3, click here.

FIFTY SHADES OF FELT - All Puppet Players - Tickets now on sale

All Puppet Players is presenting three shows this season at their new location on the Playhouse in the Park just off Central Avenue across from the Phoenix Art Museum/Phoenix Theatre.  

Tickets are now on sale for their first production, a remount of last year's All Puppet Players/Nearly Naked Theatre production of Fifty Shades of Felt.

Click here to purchase tickets

WEEK AT A GLANCE - January 26 - February 1

Click on any show title to get more information on that production

And Click Here for a complete day by day calendar of what shows are playing.

CONCERTS/ LIMITED RUN:

CIRQUE DE LA SYMPHONIE
Phoenix Symphony Orchestra
January 31, 2015

CLOSING:

FOOTLOOSE 

Actor's Youth Theatre

January 21 - 31, 2015

RENT

Spotlight Youth Theatre
January 16 - Feb 1, 2015

13 THE MUSICAL
Theater Works
January 16 - February 1, 2015

2 PIANOS 4 HANDS
Phoenix Theatre
January 14 - February 1, 2015

KING LEAR
Southwest Shakespeare Company
January 16 – 31, 2015

AS YOU LIKE IT
Southwest Shakespeare Company
January 17 – 31, 2015

DEBBIE DOES DALLAS: THE MUSICAL
Nearly Naked Theatre
January 10-31, 2015

SHIFTING GEARS
Theater Works
January 9 - February 1, 2015

OPENING:

N/A

STILL PLAYING:


NANA'S NAUGHTY KNICKERS
The Palms Theatre
Jan 2 - Feb 7, 2015

42ND ST
Desert Stages Theatre
January 9 - February 8, 2015

ANNIE GET YOUR GUN
The Palms Theatre
January 16 - February 14, 2015

LEND ME A TENOR
Hale Centre Theatre
Dec. 31 - Feb, 14, 2015

THE KING AND I
Arizona Broadway Theatre
January 9 - February 15, 2015

OKLAHOMA!
Don Bluth Front Row Theatre
January 15 - February 21, 2015

LOMBARDI

Desert Stages Theatre

January 23 - March 15, 2015

LATE NITE CATECHISM
Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts
January 9 - April 15, 2015

FOREVER PLAID
Hale Centre Theatre
January 19 - April 21, 2015

DEAD MAN'S CELL PHONE - Mesa Encore Theatre' Second Sunday Play Reading - Feb. 8th

“Dead Man’s Cell Phone”
Directed by Wendy Wasserstein

~ No Admission Charge ~ $5 Donation Recommended ~


Sunday, February 8th 7:30pm
at the Black Box on Brown
318 E Brown Rd #101, Mesa AZ 85201

(No Admission Charge ~ $5 Suggested Donation)

An incessantly ringing cell phone in a quiet café. A stranger at the next table who has had enough. And a dead man — with a lot of loose ends. So begins this wildly imaginative new comedy by MacArthur “Genius” Grant recipient and Pulitzer Prize finalist, Sarah Ruhl. It's a play about how we memorialize the dead — and how that remembering changes us. It is the odyssey of a woman forced to confront her own assumptions about morality, redemption, and the need to connect in a technologically obsessed world.

CLICK HERE for more information

reviews - AS YOU LIKE IT - Southwest Shakespeare Company

Ross Hellwig and Alison Sell

For more information on this production, that runs through January 31st, click here.

"The sweet intoxication of love is at the heart of Shakespeare's comedy As You Like It. Southwest Shakespeare Company's current production of the play is a swift moving, fun-filled romp anchored by a memorable performance by Allison Sell as the passionate Rosalind.  One of Shakespeare's most accessible comedies, As You Like It is the story of a series of lovers, most notably Rosalind and Orlando, who fall in love at first site but then find themselves just as quickly separated. While the plot is slightly contrived and somewhat convoluted, it is easy to follow and the contrivances only add to the fun of the play in how it displays, and somewhat mocks, the folly of love. Director David Vining has updated the time period, setting it in the American Colonies of 1700. The Puritan time frame works well in how the oppression of the period mirrors the characters' escape into the freedom of the forest. Vining sets a nice tone throughout, with the entire cast delivering well thought out, humorous portrayals and the action moving fairly swiftly in the two hour production.    Allison Sell is a breath of fresh air as Rosalind. She brings an exuberance to the part that makes the audience instantly fall in love with her, just as Orlando does. an enjoyable production of a classic comedy. With superb performances all around, it is a perfect complement with SSC's exceptional King Lear." -Gil Benbrook, Talkin' Broadway (click here to read the complete review)


"With a plot involving two pairs of feuding brothers and (count 'em) four sets of lovers, Like It has been moved to colonial America, with the characters fluttering about in Puritan habits. This conceit is a poor fit for the classic pastoral comedy, which juxtaposes the decorum and indulgence of courtly life with the rustic joys of the country, because no such dichotomy exists in early New England society — unless, of course, one wanted to turn Shakespeare's shepherds into Native Americans, which we all can agree would be a terrible, horrible, no good, very bad idea. Happily, the setting fades away once the action moves from the court to the Forest of Arden, and we are left to enjoy Shakespeare's romp unencumbered by anachronistic dissonance. There's the famous "All the world's a stage" speech by the melancholic philosopher Jaques (Rick Davis), of course, and the bawdy romance between the fast-talking jester Touchstone (William Wilson) and the ditzy goatherd Audrey (Letson — also "Lear's" Goneril). It's all great fun, especially the irresistible performance of Allison Sell" -Kerry Lengel, Arizona Republic (click here to read the complete review)

Photo: Mark Gluckman/ Southwest Shakespeare Company

audition notice - A BEL AIR LAWYER IN KING HENRY'S COURT - Justus Theatre

from our friends at Justus Theatre:

Justus Theater is a small company here in Phoenix comprised of talented individuals performing theater as an avocation. We have an excellent performance space with cabaret seating from 50 to 75 and full bar service before, during and after our shows.

The goal of JustUs Theater is to perform entertaining new works by talented authors and re-imagined classics for our audience base. We will not perform what can be seen on other stages here in the valley.

We are auditioning for 'A Bel Air Lawyer in King Henry's Court.' A full-length play for two actors by Christina Hamlet.

-King Henry VIII - The King of England in all his glory and exactly as he is historically.

-Jerome Steinberg - A very successful, very powerful lawyer from the 24th century who has traveled back in time to essentially, try and change history.

Both men are used to getting their way.

Both actors must be able to carry a heavy line-load.

We can also use a non-speaking male or female servant attending the King and moving props and such. Because we offer full-bar service, all actors much be 21 or over.

The court of Henry VIII is the backdrop for a clash of wills between a cutthroat attorney and a throat-cutting king.  As the play opens, the arrogant monarch’s supper is interrupted by the unexpected arrival of a visitor from the future—a fast-talking Jewish lawyer who will be representing Catherine of Aragon’s interests in the impending divorce proceedings.  Skeptical at first, then angered by this stranger’s brash declarations, Henry is nonetheless intrigued by the newcomer’s suggestion that five more women after Catherine will hold the title of Queen.  Both men — egotistical and intent on winning at all costs — will have their mettle tested over the next 15 years.

Auditions by appointment with Mario Magana at 321-986-9078 or magana101@yahoo.com 

Rehearsals will start once we are cast, they will be at night and we will work (somewhat) around the actors conflicts.

review- FOREVER PLAID - Hale Centre Theatre

for more information on this production that runs through April 21st, click here.

"Forever Plaid, that sweet and charming trip down memory lane, is back in a fun-filled production at the Hale Centre Theatre playing on Monday and Tuesday nights for the next three months. With over two dozen songs from the '50s and '60s, sung by four guys accompanied by a superb trio playing some lush arrangements, it is a humorous and musical story. Hale has cast four Valley theatre regulars as the Plaids and they all deliver in spades, both musically and in their delightful performances. Director/choreographer Cambrian James expertly stages the show in the "in the round" Hale setting, making sure that no one on any side gets left out of the many humorous and heartfelt moments with his continually moving cast.  Full of many humorous, sweet and touching moments, Forever Plaid is a nostalgic look back at the music and events from fifty years ago. With four leads that vocalize together beautifully, a superb trio of musicians, and fun and imaginative choreography and direction, Hale's production of the show is a winner." -Gil Benbrook, Talkin' Broadway (click here to read the complete review)

Photo: Nick Woodward - Shaw /Hale Centre Theatre

review - RAPTURE, BLISTER, BURN - Theatre Artists Studio

For more information on this production that runs through February 1st, click here.

"The highly acclaimed Pulitzer Prize-nominated drama, which has been making the rounds since 2012 at theaters throughout the country is now on stage at Theatre Artists Studio in Phoenix. Deservedly praised for its intelligent and brilliantly crafted script, Rapture, Blister, Burn should be seen if for no other reason than to witness its crafty and witty exposure of the haunting and daunting themes with which many women, not all women, across generations, wrestle. It is also an exposition, a likely unintentional spoof, of the self-indulgent, pseudo-intellectual, and confused prattle that sometimes poses as feminist scholarship. The elegance and depth of Ms. Gionfriddo's work lies in her avoidance of happy endings and shibboleths. Ms. Gionfriddo has delivered a substantive basis for thoughtful and provocative conversation" -Herbert Paine, Broadway World (click here to read the complete review)

audition notice THE MAN WHO CAME TO DINNER - Hale Centre Theatre - Feb. 14

From our friends at Hale Centre Theatre:

Hale Centre Theatre will hold auditions for The Man Who Came to Dinner, by Moss Hart and George S. Kaufman playing April 9, 2015 – May 16, 2015. The show is produced by David and Corrin Dietlein and directed by Alaina Beauloye. Performances are Wednesday – Saturday nights with Saturday matinees. 

SYNOPSIS 
It’s madness and mayhem when an infamously demanding radio personality, Sheridan Whiteside, having dined at the home of the Stanleys, slips on ice at their their doorstep, injuring his hip. A tumultuous six weeks of confinement follow. The Stanley living room is monopolized by the irascible invalid; ex-convicts are invited to meals; and transatlantic calls bring a $784 phone bill. The arrival of strange gifts from his friends further destroys domestic tranquility. It would take a stoical housewife to harbor penguins in her library, an octopus in her cellar, and 10,000 cockroaches in her kitchen. When his secretary, Maggie, falls in love with journalist, Bert Jefferson, Whiteside fears he may lose his long time assistant. He summons glamorous actress, Lorraine Sheldon, to win the affections of the young man. Throw in family drama, famous Hollywood guests, and eccentric characters and what more can happen? There are plenty of laughs in this 1939 classic! 

Audition Times are as Follows: Saturday, February 14th at 10:00 AM 
● Readings will be cold from the script. Sides will be provided. 
● Please be familiar with the play. 
● Looking for great character actors as some will be playing double (or more) roles. 
● Dance or singing will not be required at the audition. 
● A headshot and resume is required. 
● Read the breakdowns and bring your best characters to the audition! 

CALL BACKS 
Will be held Saturday, February 21st at 9:00 AM with the first read through scheduled for Monday, February 23rd at 7:00 PM. 

Audition Location 
Auditions will be held at the Hale Theatre located at 50 West Page Avenue in dowtown Gilbert. 

PAYMENT 
Each adult actor 16 years of age and older will receive a payment of $25.00 per performance. 

REHEARSAL PAY 
Actors will be given rehearsal pay of $10 per rehearsal up to a maximum of $200.00. 

OTHER NOTES 
Runtime: 2 hours and 15 minutes. Any questions may be emailed toauditions@haletheatrearizona.com 

CHARACTER BREAKDOWN 
● SHERIDAN WHITESIDE: (30's-50's) A middle aged, obnoxious but famous writer, critic radio host. 

● MAGGIE CUTLER: (30’s-40’s) Whiteside’s private secretary. Does everything for him but she’s no push over. Falls in love with Bert Jefferson. 

● MR. EARNEST W. STANLEY: (40’s-60’s) Uptight factory owner. Very frustrated by his guest. 

● MRS. STANLEY (DAISY): (40’s-60’s) Highly strung wife. 

● RICHARD STANLEY: (20’s-30’s) Son of Mr. and Mrs. Stanley. Talented amateur photographer. 

● JUNE STANLEY: (20’s-30’s) Daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Stanley. In love with Sandy. 

● MISS PREEN: (30’s-60’s) A spinsterish nurse who attends to Whiteside. A humorless prude. 

● BERT JEFFERSON: (30’s-50’s) A local journalist who has written a play. 

● JOHN: (30’s-50’s) The Stanley’s star-struck Butler. 

● SARAH: (30’s-50’s) John’s wife and the Stanley's talented household cook. 

● LORRAINE SHELDON / HARRIET STANLEY / MRS. McCUTCHEON: (30's-50's) 
-->LORRAINE: A temperamental, acid-tongued, self-serving actress. Glamorous & beautiful. 
-->HARRIET STANLEY: Eccentric, live-in sister of Mr. Stanley. 
-->MRS. McCUTCHEON: Star-struck neighbor, local busy body, and friend of Mrs. Stanley. 

● DR. BRADLEY / SANDY / PROFESSOR METZ / DETECTIVE: (20's-50's) 
-->DR. BRADLEY: White's doctor. Also an aspiring writer. 
-->SANDY: Handsome Union-organizer. In love with June Stanley. 
-->PROFESSOR METZ: A strange-looking man. An entomologist. 
-->DETECTIVE: Brings June and Richard home after they run away. 

● BANJO / MR. BAKER: (30's-60's) 
-->BANJO: A comedic over-the-top man who is a good friend of Mr. Whiteside. 
-->MR. BAKER: Prison Guard. 

● BEVERLEY CARLTON / PRISONER 1: (30's-50's) 
-->BEVERLEY CARLTON: Flamboyant English Entertainer, singer, songwriter. 
-->PRISONER: One of the murderes Whiteside invites to dinner. 

● WESTCOTT/PRISONER/DEPUTY: (30's-60's) 
-->WESTCOTT: Head radio man handling Whiteside's broadcast. 

● EXPRESSMAN/RADIO TECHNICIAN/PRISONER/DEPUTY: (30’s-50's) 


MEET THE DIRECTOR - Alaina Beauloye 
Alaina Beauloye, originally from NYC, has worked on Broadway and in film as well as national and local commercials. She recently starred in an upcoming Discovery ID channel show, Love The Way You Lie. Alaina is honored to be directing for the 3rd time at Hale. She directed Lend Me a Tenor in January, Snow White in 2012, and has been cast in over 20 Hale productions, including Dirty Rotten Scoundrels (Christine), The 39 Steps, Little Shop of Horrors (Audrey), The King and I (Anna), and The Man with the Pointed Toes (Florence & Pam). She is also a two time ariZoni award recipient for the roles of Norma Desmond in Sunset Boulevard and Christine in Dirty Rotten Scoundrels. Alaina is so excited to direct The Man Who Came to Dinner! 

Click here for more information and to schedule an audition