Thursday, May 31, 2018

Theatre Artists Studio's 2018 / 2019 Season!





The Studio is pleased to announce its 2018-2019 season.


 Rose and Walsh
by Neil Simon
August 17 – September 2, 2018

Join us for Summer Fun as we present Neil Simon’s last published play.  Rose, a celebrated but near penniless author receives nightly visits from Walsh, the love of her life and a famous writer himself.  When Walsh must go away forever, he makes an intriguing proposal that will change everything.



Rabbit Hole
by David Lindsay-Abaire
September 28 – October 21, 2018

Don’t miss this Pulitzer Prize winning play, which beautifully and poignantly examines a family’s journey through grief.  Exquisitely told with compassion, honesty and humor, it is guaranteed to touch your heart and your humanity.



Inherit the Wind
by Jerome Lawrence and Robert E. Lee
November 16 – December 9, 2018

A timeless, ageless, forever relevant, American courtroom drama that defines our right to freedom of thought and knowledge and to a society that values beliefs and ideas that are different from its own.



We Would Like to Propose a Toast
December 15 & 16, 2018

A Celebration of The Studio, the Holidays and You! – conceived and directed by Scott Storr



Brilliant Traces
by Cindy Lou Johnson
January 25 – February 17, 2019

Picture this: A reclusive young man in a remote cabin in Alaska during a blizzard. Add the arrival of a distraught young woman in a wedding dress who has driven five days from Arizona, and you have a fantastical and engaging encounter that makes us question whether we can run, or if  we can hide!



Pas d’Action
by Hal Corley
March 15 – March 31, 2019

A family gathers for a celebration of Peoria’s grand dame of ballet and thus begins again old wounds, new wounds, old secrets, and new secrets.  The Studio welcomes back an old friend with a World Premiere of his new play about how and why we don’t listen to each other.


Love and Money
by A.R. Gurney
April 26 –May 19, 2019

Determined to donate almost everything she owns before her life of privilege ends, a wealthy widow’s plan hits a snag when an ambitious, ingratiating young man arrives to claim his inheritance.  A charming story, delightful characters and a touch of music make this lighthearted comedy a must see.


2019 New Summer Shorts
JUNE 13 – 23, 2019

Our annual festival of 10-minute plays written by our talented playwrights is always a highlight of our year.   We look forward celebrating these plays with you as they wrap up another season at The Studio!

Show times are Friday & Saturday nights at 7:30 pm and Sundays at 2:00 pm for all productions except Rose and Walsh, Pas d’Action and New Summer Shorts, which will run on Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights at 7:30 pm and Sunday afternoons at 2:00 pm; and We Would Like to Propose a Toast!, which has two performances only (December 15 & 16, 2018).

Tickets are $25 for General Admission; $20 each for Groups of 10 or More, Seniors age 65 and over and members of the military (active and retired) and $15 for Students age 25 and under.

For tickets and other information, please visit www.thestudiophx.org.

Theatre Artists Studio, 4848 E. Cactus Rd, #406, Scottsdale, AZ 85254 
Box Office: 602-765-0120; or online at www.thestudiophx.org

About the Studio:  Our mission is to create extraordinary theatre in a collaborative environment that engages audiences, educates our community and explores the capacity for creative expression in each and every individual.
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reviews - THE HUMANS - National Tour: ASU Gammage

Richard Thomas, Therese Plaehn, Pamela Reed, Lauren Klein, Daisy Eagan, and Luis Veda


highlights from local critics reviews - (click link at bottom of each review to read complete review)

Click here for more information on this production that runs through June 3rd.

"...Stephen Karam's spellbinding and intriguing comedy drama The Humans...a rich and rewarding work about fear and anxiety...an exceptional cast who deliver realistic, heart-wrenching and humorous performances....set around a seemingly simple Thanksgiving family dinner...all six characters reveal secrets as their vulnerabilities are exposed and their deepest fears inch closer to reality.... focuses on the horrors of human behavior and the fleeting American Dream. ...The national tour cast is excellent and presents a realistically cohesive family unit. ...Joe Mantello's direction beautifully balances the humor and drama of the play...a thought-provoking study of one family at various stages of crisis that will most likely spark conversation, debate and analysis. It also beautifully shows the ways people cope with reality and how they navigate through the disappointments of life. You will most likely also see yourself, or people you know, in the characters Karam has crafted and the obstacles and setbacks they face....... " -Gil Benbrook, Talkin' Broadway (click here to read the complete review)

"..But ultimately, it’s Thomas’ portrayal as dad that anchors the proceedings... There’s a suggestion of love that always surfaces among the family, where any tragedy is overcome when the Blakes help each other, and it’s that unspoken feeling of hope, no matter how slim, that leaves the theatre with you..." -David Appleford, Valley Screen and Stage (click here to read the complete review)
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audition notice - NEWSIES - Valley Youth Theatre - June 19



Newsies (Performing at HTC-Center Stage) - August 10 - 26, 2018

Auditions: June 19, 2018, registration @ 3:30pm, Actor/parent required for 4pm intro, then auditions begin

Rehearsals begin as early as June 26, 2018 and will begin with a first company meeting that actors and parents are required to attend

Load In: August 2, 2018 (Parents required; Actors TBD)
Tech: August 4 – 9, 2018
VYTal Affair Gala: August 18, 2018

Newsies has an age minimum of: Boys 10+ years old & Girls 13+ years old

Director: Bobb Cooper

Musical Director: Mark Fearey

Choreographer: Tony Spinosa (Yes the NYC choreographer Tony Spinosa!!)

Synopsis:

It's time to carry the banner on your stage with Disney's Newsies! Set in turn-of-the century New York City, Newsies is the rousing tale of Jack Kelly, a charismatic newsboy and leader of a band of teenaged "newsies." When titans of publishing raise distribution prices at the newsboys’ expense, Jack rallies newsies from across the city to strike against the unfair conditions and fight for what's right!

Based on the 1992 motion picture and inspired by a true story, Newsies features a Tony Award-winning score by Alan Menken (Little Shop of Horrors, Sister Act) and Jack Feldman and a book by Tony Award winner Harvey Fierstein (Kinky Boots). Featuring the now classic songs “Carrying the Banner,” “Seize the Day,” and “Santa Fe,” Newsies is packed with non-stop thrills and a timeless message, perfect for the whole family and every audience.

More details including character breakdown: http://www.vyt.com/auditions/newsies-auditions/
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Wednesday, May 30, 2018

review - JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR - Spotlight Youth Theatre

Joey Grado, Jasmine Bassham, Sam Primack and cast
photo by Josh Globke
highlights from local critics reviews - (click link at bottom of each review to read complete review)

Click here for more information on this production that runs through June 10th.

"The rock opera Jesus Christ Superstar, which is loosely based on the final days of Jesus of Nazareth, ... is clearly a beloved musical, with a rich, moving, rock-infused score. While Spotlight Youth Theatre's cast may be somewhat younger than the characters they are portraying, they deliver moving portrayals in a well-done production. You also can't beat seeing such a talented cast of teenagers and being inspired by the vast careers they almost all have ahead of them....beautifully directed by Mark 4man and Lynzee 4man,...Sam Primack's Jesus is heartfelt, introspective, conflicted and sad yet also infused with elements of charm, humility and passion. His forceful performance of "Gethsemane" hits all the right notes ...Joey Grado's Judas is appropriately lost, angered and dissatisfied. ..Jasmine Bassham makes for a beautiful and loving Mary. Her "I Don't Know How to Love Him" is well sung, with a realistic introspection...The intimacy of the small Spotlight space allows a deep connection between cast and audience and provides a refined clarity of the many emotional moments in the show. ...an emotionally rich and moving production of this classic rock musical........ " -Gil Benbrook, Talkin' Broadway (click here to read the complete review)
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Compass Players cancels their 2019 season after sudden death of founder, producing artistic director Jeanna Michaels

Jeanna Michaels, right, with Megan Holcomb
in Compass Players' production of Agnes of God
photo courtesy Compass Players

from our friends at Compass Players:

Following the sudden and untimely death of founder and Producing Artistic Director Jeanna Michaels, the Compass Players board of directors has voted to cancel the 2019 season and suspend operations.

“We are all deeply saddened by Jeanna’s passing,” said founding member Dave Golden. “She was the inspiration and driving force behind Compass Players and will be missed on so many levels.”

Michaels passed away on May 23 after a brief battle with lymphoma.

Golden said “we will address the future of Compass Players during the summer, at which time we’ll decide how or whether to move forward.  For now, our thoughts and prayers are with Jeanna’s husband, Steve, and their family.”

Compass Players, which performed at TheaterWorks at the Peoria Center for the Performing Arts, completed its second three-play season in March with the world premiere of Cynthia J. Cohen’s romantic comedy, West Palm Prime. Michaels had been developing the schedule for the 2019 season when she became ill.

“We are truly grateful to the community for its overwhelmingly positive response to our shows the past two years,” he said. 

For more information, visit www.compassplayers.com.
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photos - THE HUMANS - National Tour: ASU Gammage

CLICK HERE for more information on this production, which runs through June 3rd




Photos by Julieta Cervantes
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Tuesday, May 29, 2018

reviews - GUNMETAL BLUES - A/C Theatre Company



highlights from local critics reviews - (click link at bottom of each review to read complete review)

Click here for more information on this production that runs through June 3rd.

"...While the plot may get a little confusing and convoluted at times, the score is rich and smart ..a beautiful and lush production from A/C Theatre Company.... a tribute to the hard-boiled detective stories of Raymond Chandler and Dashiell Hammett, and also an homage to classic 1940s film noir movies. ...The cast features three theatre professionals who have appeared in numerous productions in the Valley, all of whom are spot-on perfect in bringing these film noir characters to life. ..Director Tim Shawver's smart direction derives lovely performances and his staging makes good use of the space. The creative elements are exceptional. ...While the last few minutes of Gunmetal Blues may seem to tie up the loose ends too quickly, and there is a slight let down from the smart book and smarter score that came before, A/C Theatre Company's very good cast and perfect creative elements make for a witty and warm, and simply fun show that is a loving tribute, homage and spoof of classic film noir films..... " -Gil Benbrook, Talkin' Broadway (click here to read the complete review)

"..a well-crafted homage to the noir stylings of Raymond Chandler, but that formula is too familiar to retain much surprise outside the obligatory plot twists....The jazz-club intimacy is a refreshing change of style in musical theater, but the storytelling is pastiche bordering on parody, making it hard to care about the plot or the characters. " - Kerry Lengel, Arizona Republic (click here to read the complete review)

".. "There’s a tendency to get lost in the plot, particularly in the second half... but ultimately it doesn’t matter.  What works so well is the engaging journey, along with the production’s style, its terrific humor, the performances of the three leads, and the overall design of a world full of double-dealers and hard-nosed detectives.." -David Appleford, Valley Screen and Stage (click here to read the complete review)
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Childsplay's 2018 / 2019 Season!

CHARLOTTE'S WEB

By Joseph Robinette, Based on the book by E.B. White
AGES 5 AND UP

Weekends, Sept. 2 - Oct. 14, 2018: Saturdays (1 & 4pm), Sundays (1pm)

Location: The Herberger Theater Center - Stage West

Price: $12-$30 + Herberger Box Office Fees

Back by popular demand! One of our most beloved productions returns to the stage with a brilliant version of E.B. White’s American classic. Meet Wilbur, an endearing piglet trying to make his way in the world, and Charlotte, the wise and winsome spider who becomes his true friend. Get caught up in Charlotte’s web as we spin this timeless story onto the stage!

Estimated Run Time:
Act I:  50 minutes
15 minute intermission
Act II:  40 minutes
Actor Talk Back:  10  minutes
TOTAL:  1 hr. 55 minutes

BACKSTAGE TOURS:
Saturdays, Sept. 22 & Oct. 6, 2018 -- following the 4pm performances

Estimated Run Time:  55 minutes + 10 min. Q&A

THE GIRL WHO SWALLOWED A CACTUS

By Eric Coble
AGES 5 AND UP

10/27/2018 - 11/18/2018
Sundays & Saturdays

Location: The Herberger Theater Center - Stage West

Price: $12-$30 + Herberger Box Office Fees

When school is out, there’s nothing to do and the desert sun beats down hot, Sheila and her friends find themselves in search of something – anything – interesting to explore. So when a walking, talking, and surprisingly well-dressed coyote shows up, the kids find themselves on the adventure of a lifetime! Filled with magical realism and surprises at every turn, this funny story of friendship and imagination will bring the desert landscape to life.

ESTIMATED RUN TIME:

Act I:  50 minutes
Actor Talk Back:  10 minutes
TOTAL:  60 minutes

BACKSTAGE TOUR:
Saturday, Nov. 10 -- following the 4pm performance
ELLA ENCHANTED
By Karen Zacarías, Music by Deborah Wicks La Puma, Adapted from the book by Gail Carson Levine

AGES 5 AND UP

Weekends, Dec. 15 - Dec. 30, 2018: Saturdays (1 & 4pm), Sundays (1pm)

Location: The Herberger Theater Center - Center Stage

Price: $12-$30 + Herberger Box Office Fees

Not every princess needs rescuing. Based on the Newbery-honor book, this Cinderella twist follows Ella, a princess who is given the “gift” of obedience at birth. As she grows up, the strong-willed little girl must defeat her evil stepmother, a hungry ogre, and this troublesome curse to find her own voice and live happily ever after. This charming musical adventure is the perfect fairy tale for the holiday season!

ESTIMATED RUN TIME:

Act I:  75 minutes
Actor Talk Back:  10 minutes
TOTAL:  85 minutes

BACKSTAGE TOURS:
Saturdays, Dec. 22 & 29, 2018 -- following the 4pm performances


AND IN THIS CORNER… CASSIUS CLAY
By Idris Goodwin
AGES 9 AND UP

Weekends, Jan. 27 - March 3, Saturdays (1 & 4pm), Sundays (1pm)

Location: Black Theatre Troupe, 1333 East Washington Street, Phoenix 85034

Price: General Admission Adult: $25; General Admission Child: $20 + Herberger Box Office Fees

Every hero has an origin story. Before Muhammad Ali became one of the world’s greatest boxers and civil rights advocates, he was Cassius Clay. Step into the ring with 12-year old Cassius as he navigates friendship, family and learning to fight for himself and his community. Told with surprising humor and heart, this play takes you inside Jim Crow-era Louisville to see the beginnings of an American hero.

This is performance is brought to you by Childsplay and Black Theatre Troupe, and will take place at BTT's beautiful home in Phoenix! All seats are general admission.

ESTIMATED RUN TIME:

Act I: 70 minutes
Actor Talk Back: 10 minutes
TOTAL:  80 minutes


THE VERY HUNGRY CATERPILLAR SHOW

Created by Jonathan Rockefeller, Based on Eric Carle’s Books
AGES 3 AND UP

3/17/2019 - 4/21/2019
Sundays & Saturdays

Location: The Herberger Theater Center - Stage West

Price: $12 - $30 + Herberger Box Office Fees

Eric Carle’s iconic stories and illustrations come to life on stage! From A Very Hungry Caterpillar who undergoes a magical transformation to The Very Lonely Firefly who learns to shines his light by finding friends, you won’t want to miss this fantastical puppet experience.

ESTIMATED RUN TIME:

Act 1:  50 minutes
Actor Talk Back:  10 minutes
TOTAL:  60 minutes

BACKSTAGE TOURS:
Saturdays, March 30 & April 13, 2019 -- following the 4pm performances



SCHOOLHOUSE ROCK LIVE!

Book by Scott Ferguson, George Keating and Kyle Hall Music and Lyrics by Lynn Ahrens, Bob Dorough, Dave Frishberg, Kathy Mandry, George Newall and Tom Yohe
AGES 6 AND UP

Weekends, April 28 - May 26, 2019: Saturdays (1 & 4pm), Sundays (1pm)

Location: The Herberger Theater Center - Stage West

Price: $12-$30 + Herberger Box Office Fees

A pop culture phenomenon returns to the musical stage! Academic subjects will never seem boring again when presented through megahits like “Conjunction Junction,” “Just a Bill,” “Interplanet Janet” or “Three is a Magic Number.” Schoolhouse Rock explodes into your school with songs you loved updated for a whole new generation!

ESTIMATED RUN TIME:

Act I:  60  minutes
Actor Talk Back:  10 minutes

TOTAL:  70  minutes

BACKSTAGE TOURS:
Saturdays May 11 & 25, 2019 -- following the 4pm performances

CLICK HERE for more information, and to order Flex Tickets, and individual tickets, when available

*Please note:  Play titles and performance dates are subject to change.
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Monday, May 28, 2018

WEEK AT A GLANCE: May 28 - June 3

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



JESUS HOPPED THE ‘A’ TRAIN 
Mesa Encore Theatre 
June 8 - 24, 2018

ANNIE JR. 
Musical Theatre of Anthem 
June 14 - 17, 2018

PETER PAN, A MUSICAL ADVENTURE 
East Valley Children's Theatre 
June 14 – 24, 2018

AGATHA CHRISTIE'S A MURDER IS ANNOUNCED 
Scottsdale Desert Stages Theatre 
June 15 - July 29, 2018

ANNIE
Valley Youth Theatre 
June 15 – July 1, 2018


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audition notice - THE WILD PARTY - A/C Theatre Company - June 2

Announcing Open Auditions for A/C Theatre Company's production of Andrew Lippa's THE WILD PARTY

Director: Robert Kolby Harper
Music Director: Steve Hilderbrand

Audition Dates/Times: 
Saturday, June 2, 11am - 6pm

Callback Dates/Times: 
Sunday, June 3, 11am - 4pm

Audition Location:
Phoenix Theatre - Hardes Theatre
100 E McDowell Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85004, USA

Rehearsal Start Date: August 6, 2018
Show Dates: Weekends beginning Sept 8 through Sept 23, 2018

Show Synopsis
Lovers Queenie and Burrs decide to throw the party-to-end-all-parties in their Manhattan apartment. After the colorful arrival of a slew of guests living life on the edge, Queenie's wandering eyes land on a striking man named Black. As the decadence is reaching a climax, so is Burrs' jealousy, which erupts and sends him into a violent rage. Gun in hand and inhibitions abandoned, Burrs turns on Queenie and Black. The gun gets fired, but who's been shot?

Character Breakdown
Black Gender: Male Age: 25 to 35 Vocal range top: G5 Vocal range bottom: F3

Burrs Gender: Male Age: 30 to 40 Vocal range top: A5 Vocal range bottom: G3

Dolores Age: 30 to 45 Vocal range top: A5 Vocal range bottom: A3

Eddie Gender: Male Age: 30 to 45 Vocal range top: A5 Vocal range bottom: A3

Kate Gender: FemaleAge: 20 to 30 Vocal range top: E5 Vocal range bottom: F3

Madelaine True Gender: Female Age: 40 to 55 Vocal range top: E5 Vocal range bottom: A3

Mae Gender: Female Age: 25 to 45 Vocal range top: D5 Vocal range bottom: A3

Sam Gender: Male Age: 30 to 50 Vocal range top: A5 Vocal range bottom: A3

Oscar D’armano Gender: Male Age: 25 to 35 Vocal range top: B5 Vocal range bottom: A3

Phil D’armano Gender: Male Age: 25 to 35 Vocal range top: A5 Vocal range bottom: A3

QueeniecGender: Female Age: 20 to 30 Vocal range top: F5 Vocal range bottom: F3

Nadine Gender: Female Age: 16 to 18 Vocal range top: A5 Vocal range bottom: A3

Max Gender: Male Age: 25 to 35 Vocal range top: B5 Vocal range bottom: A3

Ensemble

What To Prepare
One (1) 24-32 bar cutting in the style of the show.
Come prepared to move both June 2 and June 3.

Additional Info
To schedule an appointment, please email with the interested role in the subject line.

Audition Contact
Tommy Strawser
570-898-1004
info@actheatrecompany.org

Pianist provided.

If you cannot make either June 2 or June 3 and would still like to be considered for "The Wild Party", please submit a headshot and resume to and any conflicts Aug 6 - Sept 23, 2018.

A/C Theatre Company is committed to diversity and encourages a policy of equal opportunity designed to promote a positive model of inclusion. A/CTC encourages performers of all ethnicities, gender identities, and ages, as well as performers with disabilities, to attend.
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cast announcement - COMPANY - Starlight Community Theater


CLICK HERE for more information on this production, which runs July 20 - 29

Directed by Thomas Graca

Robert:  Skyler Washburn
Sarah: Victoria Fricker
Harry:  Thomas F. Graca
Susan: Maryam Ishaya
Peter: William Rippenkroeger
Jenny:  Brianna Hill
David:  David Hager
Amy:  Savoy Antoinette
Paul: Kyle Kadel
Joanne: Anne Montgomery
Larry:  Scott Sims
Marta:  Leigh Anne Hager
Kathy: Chelsea Carll
April:  Helen Mitchell
Vocal Minority:  Mackenzie Morgan, Gigi Berry, Heather Riddle, Nathalie Velasquez
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Laughing Pig Theatre's 2018 / 2019 Season!


Survival Skills: a two-woman show
June 29, 30, and July 1st  at 7:30pm
July 1st, 2018  at 2:00pm

Monologue Cafe: Walls
July 27 and 28th, 2018 at 7:30pm

Reasons to be Pretty
September 28, 29, and October 6, 2018 at 7:30pm
September 30, 2018 at 2:00pm

Shakespearian New Work Festival (to submit, visit the Laughing Pig website)
December 7 and 8, 2018 at 7:30pm
 December 9, 2018 at 2:00pm

TBA  (to submit, visit the Laughing Pig website)
March 22, 23 & 30, 2019 at 7:30pm       
March 24, 2019 at 2:00pm

New Work Production
June 21, 22 & 29, 2019 at 7:30pm
June 23, 2019 at 2:00pm

Pay-What-You-Can-Workshop EVERY second Friday at 7:30pm

 FREE Open Improv Jam (all experience levels welcome) EVERY Wednesday* at 7:30pm
*Last Wednesday of the month replaced with a Giggling Piglet's Performance at 7:30pm (Giggling Piglets is cast with regular Improv Jam participants)

Laughing Pig Theatre
www.laughingpigtheatre.com
Mesa Arts Center's Acting Studio 1 E Main St Mesa, AZ 85201
(928) 421-1195
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Sunday, May 27, 2018

ASU Gammage to Send Valley Teens to New York City to Compete in National Musical Theatre Awards

Haley Reed, Colleen Jennings-Roggensack and Miles Hull
photo courtesy ASU Gammage
from our friends at ASU Gammage:

Complete with red carpet, tuxedos and gowns, and the flashing camera lights, the ASU Gammage High School Musical Theatre Awards recognized and celebrated high school students and faculty that produce Musical Theatre programs here in the Valley.

Thousands of cheering guests and thespians roared during the awards ceremony Saturday night that also included performances from dozens of nominees.

Two big winners are heading to New York City to compete in the national event known as The Jimmy Awards, a celebration of outstanding student achievement, recognizing individual artistry in vocal, dance and acting performance, and elevating the importance of theatre arts education in schools.

ASU Gammage Executive Director Colleen Jennings-Roggensack presented the awards to the two Valley high school students who will represent Arizona in the Big Apple.

And the awards go to ….

Haley Reed from Dobson High School who won Best Female Lead in a Musical for her performance in THOUROUGLY MODERN MILLIE

Miles Hull from Red Mountain High School took the honors for Best Male Lead in a Musical for his Bert performance in MARY POPPINS

Throughout the school year, adjudicators assessed each school’s musical to rank the actors and performances in a variety of categories as the state-level qualifier for the National High School Musical Theater Awards, nicknamed the Jimmy Awards after the late Broadway producer and theatre owner James M. Nederlander..

Presented by The Broadway League Foundation, the Jimmy Awards will take place on June 25, 2018, at 7:30pm at the Minskoff Theatre.  High school students from across the country will compete for the Jimmy Award for Best Performance by an Actor and Best Performance by an Actress at the 10th annual showcase, which features both ensemble and solo performances.
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cast announcement - THE HUMANS - National Tour: ASU Gammage



The cast for the national tour of the Tony-winning Stephen Karam play The Humans which plays ASU Gammage from May 29 to June 3rd has been announced.

Erik Blake: Richard Thomas
Deirdre Blake: Pamela Reed as Deirde
Brigid Blake: Daisy Eagan
Fiona "Momo" Blake: Lauren Klein
Aimee Blake: Therese Plaehn
Richard Saad: Luis Vega

Set over the course of a family dinner on Thanksgiving, The Humans concerns Erik Blake, who has brought his Pennsylvania family to celebrate and give thanks at his daughter's apartment in lower Manhattan. Set in real-time over the course of 90 minutes, the play follows the family as they navigate their fears and follies in the pre-war duplex.

The tour also features the entire creative team from the Broadway production:

Director: Joe Mantello
Scenic Designer: David Zinn
Costume Designer: Sarah Laux
Lighting Designer: Justin Townsend
Sound Designer: Fitz Patton.

CLICK HERE for more information for the ASU Gammage tour dates
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Saturday, May 26, 2018

reviews - LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS - Phoenix Theatre

Kate E. Cook and Brian Golub
Photo by Reg Madison Photography
highlights from local critics reviews - (click link at bottom of each review to read complete review)

Click here for more information on this production that runs through June 10th.

"... a crowd-pleasing musical comedy..a fun and funny production of this humorous and charming musical with a capable cast and incredibly smart direction....Robert Kolby Harper's direction ensures that the comic moments are sharp and delivered to get big laughs...He also adds a poignancy to the sweet, emotional moments that help provide nuance and added layers to the somewhat stereotypical characters...Brian Golub, Kate E. Cook and Scott Davidson, as Seymour, Audrey and Mushnik, respectively, create funny, warm and charming individuals. While I wish Golub's diction during his songs were a little crisper, he does a decent job as the lovable nerd. Cook is a highlight as the ditzy blonde who dreams of a better life. Her performance of "Somewhere That's Green" is stunning and one of the best versions of the song I've heard; she provides deep meaning in each lyric and makes you realize how Audrey learns more about herself and her hopes as she sings the song. ...Toby Yatso is having a gas as Audrey's abusive, bad-boy boyfriend who just happens to also be a dentist, Orin. ... fast paced, fun, and extremely enjoyable........ " -Gil Benbrook, Talkin' Broadway (click here to read the complete review)

"Ranking high on the list of musicals for people who don’t like musicals is “Little Shop of Horrors,” ...infectiously tuneful...tightly directed by Robert Kolby Harper..Happily, the cast also delivers, from Brian Golub’s uber-nerdy Seymour to Kate E. Cook’s surprisingly affecting turn as our hero’s statuesque shiksa goddess, Audrey...." - Kerry Lengel, Arizona Republic (click here to read the complete review)

"...Despite the black level of humor... there’s a feeling of comical goodwill that constantly emerges from this top-notch cast. Like a well choreographed production, the whole show flows from scene to scene, from song to song, without missing a step, or a beat. " -David Appleford, Valley Screen and Stage (click here to read the complete review)

"...an affectionate and enjoyable musical..Phoenix Theatre’s zippy new Robert Kolby Harper production isn’t perfect but it squeezes lots of entertainment from the unbelievable plot....blessed with witty dialogue that makes the ridiculous plot funny....Phoenix Theatre’s cast causes problems that keep the show from artful perfection. ...Brian Golub as Seymour....Golub is too old for the part and he seems awkward with the character’s bizarre stupidity.  Kate E. Cook’s Audrey is better as she deploys a consistently dumb-witted accent as she blindly accepts her boyfriend’s abuse....provides comic mayhem and silly humor but with some casting tweaks it could have been even funnier. ... " -Chris Curcio, Curtain Up, Phoenix (click here to read the complete review)

"Robert Kolby Harper... has conceived a thoroughly entertaining remake of LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS..and populated it with top of the line performers who shake the house with a rousing mix of doo wop, Gospel, and rock. The result is a distinctively clean and unadulterated production that gives latitude to the cast to exercise the full range of its talents, elevates every note and lyric, and allows for its interpretation as a parable about human foibles...." - Herbert Paine, Broadway World (click here to read the complete review)
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Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts is hiring a Full Time MEMBER & PATRON SERVICES LEAD REPRESENTATIVE




We are seeking a full time Member & Patron Services Lead Representative to be responsible for front counter work, inbound and outbound calls and online chats for tickets, donation (Annual Fund) and membership (Solo to Supporting levels) sales and results, optimizing guest experiences and maximizing sales opportunities. This position requires evenings, weekends, day shifts, specifically event shifts. In addition to providing lead functions for the department.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: (Under direction of supervisor)

Rep Duties:

  • Provides a closed loop communication with the guest, striving to resolve open issues or refer to supervisor if unable to do so at the front line.
  • Demonstrates empathy for the guest and a sense of urgency to assist in resolving concerns professionally while maintaining enthusiastic, positive rapport.
  • Diffuses and rectifies simple and complex situations courteously, utilizing supervisor support as needed.
  • Researches and communicates detailed event information to guests and staff to increase sales.
  • Initiates, receives, verifies and processes ticket, donation and membership sales and follow-up on all transactions and communications accurately and in a timely manner.
  • Increase sales and improve guest relations regularly, including making outbound calls.
  • Assist in daily and annual batch ticketing, sorting and incoming and outgoing mailing. Checks database for ticket availability and ensure correct payment is received for each transaction.
  • Calculates and checks daily reconciliations, balance sales to computer reports, prepare daily deposits and maintains general bookkeeping of all sales on a daily and long-term basis.
  • Researches, creates, files and updates reports using Microsoft Office Suite and ticketing software.
  • Organizes and maintains brand and operational standards consistently (visual, cleanliness, etc. in office and brochure display areas) and act as a liaison to all parts of the organization and divisions.
  •  


Lead Duties:

Lead Responsibilities:


  • Facilitates day of events activities such as printing will call tickets, organizing signage, setting up run time signs and other functions needed to make sure the events are progressing appropriately. Facilitates day of communications, answers rep questions, etc.
  • In absence of Patron Services Manager and/or Coordinator (or as needed), serves as Lead Rep for other Patron Services staff to facilitate answering questions, disseminating updates, communicating important organizational information, etc., so that reps are fully informed and able to do their tasks.
  • Serves as mentor and role model for department, ensuring customer service and performance guidelines and expectations are being met.
  • Assists in training new representatives or oversee staff who are in the learning process.
  • Performs other duties as needed.



QUALIFICATIONS: To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Education: High School Diploma or equivalent (education may be substituted 1:1)

Experience: Experience in customer service, hospitality, sales, box office and/or administration
required. Knowledge of Microsoft office Suite, Tessitura or similar ticketing system and Customer
Relationship Management (CRM) software.

Attributes


  • Must be available to work morning and/or afternoon shifts, as well as frequent evenings and weekends.
  • Excellent interpersonal, problem-solving, time-management, multi-tasking and organizational skills.
  • Experience in outbound and inbound telemarketing, sales, database, front office and customer service.
  • Experience handling cash, check and credit card transactions accurately and with integrity.
  • Strong personal interest or background in performing and/or visual arts (classical music, jazz, modern dance, contemporary art etc.).
  • Ability to read, write, and comprehend instructions, correspondence, memos.
  • Ability to present information in on-on-one and group scenarios to guests and employees. Bilingual skills a plus.
  • Must possess a collegial and open minded approach, be pro-active, enthusiastic and detail oriented.
  • Ability to add, subtract, multiply and divide all unites o measure and compute rate, ration and percent; draw and interpret graphs.
  • Ability to understand and carry out instructions furnished in written, oral, or diagram form. Ability to deal with problems involving several concrete variables in standardized situations.
  • Work Environment: the employee is regularly required to use hands to finger, handle or feel and talk or hear and is occasionally required to reach with hands and arms. The employee frequently is required to walk, stand and sit and view computer screen for extended periods of time. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 40 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision and distance vision. Dress code for Member and Patron Services staff is primarily business attire; semi-formal or formal for some special events. Employees should be neat in appearance and conduct themselves in a manner consistent with making a professional impression on guests.

EOE

CLICK HERE for more information and to submit your application
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photos - ASHES TO ASHES - Copperstate Productions / Fountain Hills Theater

CLICK HERE for more information on this production, which runs through June 17th










Photos by Patty Torrilhon
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Friday, May 25, 2018

review - FLY BY NIGHT - Brelby Theatre Company

the cast
photo by Shelby Maticic
highlights from local critics reviews - (click link at bottom of each review to read complete review)

Click here for more information on this production that runs through June 2nd.

"The whimsical musical Fly by Night is slightly quirky yet also entirely charming and, refreshingly, also very unpredictable. While the second act is a bit long and the ending a little unfocused, Brelby Theatre Company's production features a talented cast who infuse their characters with both wit and wisdom....the fun use of flashbacks and repeated scenes that are replayed after we learn other plot details adds to the uniqueness and originality of the piece. ...Brian and Shelby Maticic are to be commended both for selecting to produce this somewhat ambitious musical and for their fluid direction of the production. This is one of their best directed shows, and their work is assured and clean. They also have found a cast who all deliver bright and charming performances...While I wish the second act and the ending of Fly by Night were a little tighter, and you can't fault Brelby for those shortcomings in the show, it is still a fairly successful musical that focuses on love and fate. It's also an unpredictable and intriguing show full of romance and sweet and endearing characters which Brelby's cast do a very good job in bringing beautifully to life........ " -Gil Benbrook, Talkin' Broadway (click here to read the complete review)
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