Thursday, November 30, 2023

MARY POPPINS, JR - Places Productions - December 15-17, 2023 & January 5-7, 2024




A musical based on the stories of P.L. Travers and the Walt Disney film
Original Music and Lyrics by Richard M. Sherman and Robert B. Sherman
Book by Julian Fellowes 
New Songs and Additional Music and Lyrics by George Stiles and Anthony Drew
Co-Created by Cameron Mackintosh
Adapted by iTheatrics under the supervision of Timothy Allen McDonald
Presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI). All authorized performance materials are also supplied by MTI. www.MTIShows.com

December 15-17 at East Valley High School
January 5-7 at Mesa Arts Center

JUNIOR CAST - 
Friday, December 15 2023 - 7:00 PM
Saturday, December 16 2023 - 5:00PM
Firiday, Jan 5, 2024 7:00 PM
Saturday, Jan 6, 2024 3:00 PM

MINI CAST - 
Saturday,  December16 2023 - 2:00 PM 
Sunday, December 17 2023 - 2:00 PM 
Saturday, Jan 6, 2024 11:00 AM
Sunday, Jan 7, 2024 11:00 AM

SENIOR CAST - 
Saturday,  December 16 2023 - 7:30 PM
Sunday, December 17 2023 - 5:00 PM
Saturday, Jan 6, 2024 7:00 PM
Sunday, Jan 7, 2024 3:00 PM

SENIOR CAST 
(in order of appearance)
SWEEP 1: Leilani Robles
SWEEP 2: Trinity Jones
SWEEP 3: Chloe Miller
BIRD WOMAN/CHIMNEY SWEEP 4: Sam Shaw
BERT: Jackson Wood
GEORGE BANKS: Hyrum McClure
WINIFRED BANKS: Isabelle Etchamendy
JANE BANKS: Bella Elle
MICHAEL BANKS: Zander Zahorka
KATIE NANNA: Charleen Bempong
MRS. BRILL: Lauren Devey
ROBERTSON AY/VON HUSSLER: Phoenix Gladney
MARY POPPINS: Ava Saba
NELEUS: Jahlile Cephas
MISS SMYTHE: Danielle Lee
CHAIRMAN: Joseph Killinger
JOHN NORTHBROOK/POLICEMAN: Xander Lopez
MRS. CORRY: Julia Vollstedt
MISS ANDREW: Piper Searcy
CHIMNEY SWEEPS/TOYS/CLERKS: Hannah Arnett, Georgia Cleveland, Mackenzie Gilligan, Aaron Gunderson, Olivia Haller, Ayden Iwan, Kevin Jacobs, Mady King, Rigley Kirkpatrick, Izzy Redwitz, Zayden Zahorka

JUNIOR CAST
(in order of appearance)
SWEEP 1: Georgia Cleveland 
SWEEP 2: Charlotte Hover-Lashnits
SWEEP 3: Neelan Kumar 
SWEEP 4: Jayda Vannoy
BERT: Ayden Iwan 
GEORGE BANKS: Zayden Zahorka 
WINIFRED BANKS: Mackenzie Gilligan
JANE BANKS: Emma Douglas
MICHAEL BANKS: Ashton May
KATIE NANNA: Alexis Martin
MRS. BRILL: Ava Chiappetta
ROBERTSON AY/VON HUSSLER: Kevin Jacobs
MARY POPPINS: Mady King
NELEUS: Rigley Kirkpatrick
BIRD WOMAN: Olivia Haller
MISS SMYTHE: Makenna Valenzuela
CHAIRMAN: Aaron Gunderson
JOHN NORTHBROOK: Xander Lopez
MRS. CORRY: Juliana Salaiz
MISS ANDREW: Hannah Arnett
POLICEMAN: Josiah Gross
MESSENGER: Audrey Williams
CHIMNEY SWEEPS/TOYS/CLERKS: Eden Chon, Collette Etchamendy, Isabelle Etchamendy, Cecily Kinnaman, Eliza Lauritzen, Olivia Malabanan, Camila Mercer, Hyrum McClure, Izzy Redwitz, Ava Saba, Jackson Wood
  
MINI CAST
(in order of appearance)
MRS. CORRY/SWEEP 1: Cecily Kinnaman
BIRD WOMAN/SWEEP 2: Eliza Lauritzen
SWEEP 3: Neelan Kumar
SWEEP 4: Jayda Vannoy
BERT: Griffin Avery 
GEORGE BANKS: Tanner Hutchinson
WINIFRED BANKS: Collette Etchamendy
JANE BANKS: Maria Stallings 
MICHAEL BANKS: Naomi Avery
KATIE NANNA: Lacey Davis 
MRS. BRILL: Scarlett Freehan 
ROBERTSON AY: Matthew Tuft
MARY POPPINS: Farrah McArthur
NELEUS: Kendal Martinez 
MISS SMYTHE: Eden Chon
CHAIRMAN: Liam Chacon
VON HUSSLER: Noah Park
JOHN NORTHBROOK: Jaden Freehan
MISS ANDREW: Savannah Bell
POLICEMAN: Samuel Trudelle 
MESSENGER: Elise Davis
CHIMNEY SWEEPS/TOYS/CLERKS: Lucas Binder, Ava Chiappetta, Emma Douglas, Layla Edson, Charlotte Hover-Lashnits, Norah Kohnhorst, Isaiah Koo, Saffron Lopez, Olivia Malabalan, Lia McArthur, Ethan Park

TICKETS: 


Cast announced for A CHRISTMAS CAROL at TheaterWorks




Dickens:Griffin LeBlanc
Scrooge:Louis Farber
Scrooge Understudy: Ben Mosedale
Cratchit: Ken Bailes
Fred/Ebenezer: Jack Monson
Mr Fezziwig/ Stephen/Stewart: Steven Meythaler
Mrs Port: Siobhan Henry
Mrs. Barley/Party Guest/Janie/ Joanna: Veronica Carmack
Mrs Cratchit/Mrs Fezziwig: Ixy Utpadel
Jacob Marley/Old Joe: BJ Garrett
Past/Laundress: Tabi Meythaler
Headmistress/Alexandria: Corielle James
Party Guest/Charwoman: Christine Cavazos
Young Ebenezer/ Peter Cratchit: Hudson Hubbell
Young Fan/Belinda Cratchit: Bela Gomez
Dick/Undertaker’s Man: Harrison Rosenberg
Belle/Alice: Emily Andersen
Fan/Martha Cratchit: Reagan Arsenault
Present: Jen Gantwerker
Tiny Tim: Jaxson McComb
Party Guest/Bragg/Mason: Taylor Aldridge
Party Guest/Miner Woman/Rose: April Rideout
Party Guest/ Harland/Burton: Michael Potter
Party Guest/Shelly/ Hopkins: Brady Anderson

Review Highlights: IRVING BERLIN'S WHITE CHRISTMAS - Arizona Broadway Theatre

The Cast
photo courtesy Arizona Broadway Theatre
 
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 December 30

"a heartwarming production that perfectly captures the warmth and spirit of the season. Based on the beloved 1954 film of the same name and featuring the well-known songs of Irving Berlin, this musical brings joy, laughter, and a big dose of romance to the ABT stage with its talented cast, rich creative elements, and infectious and energetic dancing....While the majority of the leads are somewhat younger than I've seen in other productions, they are all talented singers, actors and dancers. ... the production's choreography is fantastic, infusing the stage with energy and charm and numerous showstopping dance numbers that all feature varied and bright steps....a wonderful combination of timeless songs, romance, and comedy, and a joyous addition to the holiday season."  - Gil Benbrook, TalkinBroadway.com (click here to read the complete review)

" leaves no snowball unturned in delivering a show that lights the fire in one’s heart and virtually re-connects you with good old-fashioned virtues.... A production with this high level of quality owes its success to the seamless coordination between the musical direction of Mark Ceppetelli (the orchestra kicks the show into high gear with a rousing overture and doesn’t stop) and the choreography of Lauran Stanis (the ensemble, likewise, sparkles with style and energy)....In its tradition of consistent quality programming, Arizona Broadway Theatre has delivered another hit...one that resonates with the kind of good cheer that befits this Holiday Season."  - Herbert Paine, Broadway World (click here to read the complete review)

Auditions for THE GLASS MENAGERIE and WEST SIDE STORY at Scottsdale Community College announced for January 22


Email Maddie Natoli at madison.natoli@scottsdalecc.edu to schedule an audition appointment

Tuesday, November 28, 2023

Spotlight Youth Theatre presents Theatrical Skills Classes beginning December 9


Lighting & Sound Design class starts Dec. 9
“Introduction to Theatrical Lighting & Sound Design,” taught by ariZoni winner, Josh Hontz!

In this class you will learn the basics of theatrical lighting & sound design, and optionally choose to continue on to create the lighting and soundscapes for the world premiere production of Spotlight Youth Theatre’s Playfest 2023-’24 !

You will experience the process from the first read-through of the script; to selecting colors and recording sound effects; and bringing everything together for opening night. No experience required!

Days:
Saturdays, December 9, 2023 – January 27, 2024

Times:
9:00 a.m. – Noon

Location:
Spotlight Studio
10620 N 43rd Ave
Glendale, AZ 85304

Cost:
$150

Ages:
14+


Cast announced for THE PROM at Greasepaint Youth Theatre



THE PROM CAST LIST:
Emma Nolan- Hailey Laidig 
Dee Dee Allen- Nora Palermo 
Barry Glickman- Charlie Hall
Angie Dickenson- Olivia Feldman
Trent Oliver- Declan Skaggs
Alyssa Greene - Sydney Hassler
Mr Hawkins- Evan Kushesh
Mrs. Greene- Katelyn Sullivan 
Sheldon-  Sebastian Girodroux
Shelby- Ava Silvernail
Kaylee- Sophie Swingler  
Nick- Lincoln Hoekstra
Kevin- Michael Benitio 

ENSEMBLE:
Phoebe Kleinlein
Petra Danek
Addie Beattie
Claire Likes
Maddie Sue Miller 
Vivienne Spamer
Hailey Glickman
Liv Steen
Freya Karve
Sarah Douglas
Lily Cash
Luke Chester
Jacob Betz
Oliver Christie
Xilan Squire

DIRECTED BY STEPHANIE LIKES
CHOREOGRAPHY BY LAURIE TRYGG
MUSICAL DIRECTION BY ELISE KURBAT
STAGE MANAGER: TAYLOR PENN

BASICALLY A CHRISTMAS CAROL - Actor's Youth Theatre - December 7-16, 2023



In this modern retelling of Charles Dickens' classic A Christmas Carol, Evangeline (aka Evan) runs a boutique where she overworks her assistant manager Bobbie and mistreats the makers who design the pieces she sells, After a haunting visit from her late business partner Jackie, Evan must face the realities of her holidays past, present and future. Join us for the premiere production of this fun new holiday musical that mixes familiar tradition with new twists. 

The GREEN CAST
Evan: Claire Wiltbank
Bobbie: Saniya Sapakie
Narrator 1, Carol Trio: Kingston Putnam
Narrator 2, Carol Trio: Nolan Lopez
Christmas Past: James Montella
Christmas Present / Spirit: Tyler Gilmore
Christmas Future/Guest: Ryan Lucas
Spirit: Olive VanSlyke
Spirit / Jackie Marley / Christian: Emily Freedman
Spirit / Billie / Fig: Remington Wong
Carol Trio, Ensemble, Spirit: Charly-Belle Ramirez
Charlie (a maker): Brendan Lucas
Jamie (a maker): Krisha Sorensen
Taylor (a maker): TJ Klimczak
Perplexa: Charly-Belle Ramirez
Sam / Alex: Archer Todd
Young Evan: Sadie Holdeman
Passerby / Soloist: Abbi Spector
Ensemble: Elliott Anderson, Emarie Bryant, Hailey Klatt, Harlow Miller, Ivana Kostur, Marina Kostur, Katelyn Kovesdy, Kaylee Fowler, Miles VanSlyke,Veronica Alexander,Porter Carr

Thu, Dec 7th, 2023 at 7:00 pm
Porter Carr will be playing Fig/Billie
Sat, Dec 9th, 2023 at 7:00 pm
Abbi Spector will be playing Christmas Present / Spirit
Fri, Dec 15th, 2023 at 7:00 pm
Sat, Dec 16th, 2023 at 3:00 pm


The RED CAST
Evan: Kaylee Fowler
Bobbie: Katelyn Kovesdy
Narrator 1, Carol Trio: Ivana Kostur
Narrator 2, Carol Trio: Marina Kostur
Christmas Past: Porter Carr
Christmas Present / Spirit: Abbi Spector
Christmas Future, Host: Hailey Klatt
Spirit: Archer Todd
Spirit: Emily Freedman
Spirit / Billie / Fig: Remington Wong
Carol Trio, Ensemble, Spirit: Charly-Belle Ramirez
Charlie (a maker): Veronica Alexander
Jamie (a maker): Emarie Bryant
Taylor (a maker): Miles VanSlyke
Perplexa: Elliott Anderson
Jackie Marley / Christian: Kingston Putnam
Sam / Alex: Olive VanSlyke
Young Evan: Harlow Miller 
Passerby / Soloist: Tyler Gilmore
Ensemble 
Claire Wiltbank, James Montella, Krisha Sorensen, Nolan Lopez, Ryan Lucas, Brendan Lucas, Sadie Holdeman, Saniya Sapakie, TJ Klimczak

Fri, Dec 8th, 2023 at 7:00 pm
Sat, Dec 9th, 2023 at 3:00 pm
Abbi Spector will be playing Passerby/Soloist
Thu, Dec 14th, 2023 at 7:00 pm
Sat, Dec 16th, 2023 at 7:00 pm

Monday, November 27, 2023

Review Highlights: ELF, THE MUSICAL - The Phoenix Theatre Company

Kevin Hack


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 December 30

"just what Santa ordered....the stunningly energized, snappily designed, expertly staged, and impeccably performed production...takes the musical’s slim trappings and makes them into a jubilant holiday celebration.... performed by a gifted cast headed by Kevin Hack who romps around blissfully as Buddy as he crafts himself into a lovable charmer....a jolly, bubbly, and effervescent holiday treasure."   -Chris Curcio, Curtain Up Phoenix (click here to read the complete review)

"ELF THE MUSICAL bursts on the Phoenix boards in a kaleidoscopic array of Christmas colors that are truly dazzling. Robert Kovach's scenic design coupled with Daniel Davisson's lighting make for an unexpected visual splendor where the colors of the season truly astonish. If nothing else, the production is a yuletide feast for the eyes....a large dose of seasonal good cheer"  - David Appleford. Broadway World (click here to read the complete review)

WEEK AT A GLANCE: November 27-December 4, 2023

 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.


CLOSING:










HOLIDAY MUSIC AND MUSINGS - Theatre Artists Studio - December 15 - December 17, 2023



by Artistic Members

Holiday harmonies with songs, stories, friends, fun and wine!


TWELFTH NIGHT - Ronin Theatre Company - December 13-17, 2023

 


Starting December 13, Ronin Theatre Company presents William Shakespeare’s TWELFTH NIGHT at the Irish Cultural Center clós (courtyard) in Downtown Phoenix.

“This holiday season, everyone’s a fool in love,” said Ronin co-founder and TWELFTH NIGHT director Cody Goulder. “It’s also the saddest day of the year for Clark Griswold, because it’s unlucky to leave Christmas decorations hanging after Twelfth Night!” 

Shakespeare titled this play for the twelfth night after Christmas (also known as Epiphany or Three Kings Day) and the bard uses it as the backdrop for a celebration of false identities and ulterior motives. 

As the story goes, twins are separated by a shipwreck. Thinking her brother dead, Viola disguises herself as a man to land a job with Duke Orsino. Orsino sends "Cesario" (Viola) to woo Olivia on his behalf. This creates an unexpected love triangle as Orsino loves Olivia, Olivia falls in love with "Cesario" and Viola falls for Orsino. Whatever became of Viola's twin brother? You must come watch to find out.

Melody Knudson (Viola), Marshall Glass (Orsino) and Katherine Stewart (Olivia) lead an all-star cast including Skip Emerson (Sir Andrew), Alana Samuels (Maria), Matt Clarke (Malvolio), Keath Hall (Sir Toby), Leonidas Karandreas (Sebastian), Benjamin Donnel (Antonio), Carlin Thomas (Fabian) and Rachelle Dart (Feste).

TWELFTH NIGHT runs December 13-17 with two matinees and four evening performances. Tickets are $30 for regular admission, $20 for Irish Cultural members, veterans, seniors 60+ and students with valid ID. 

Patrons are encouraged to dress warmly. Patio heaters will be provided and blankets made available while supplies last. Warm beverages and concessions may be purchased for a small fee. 

Reserve your seats now at azirish.org/ronin-theatre

Cyber Monday Sale on Concerts from Brock Pro Entertainment!



Save big with Brock Pro Entertainment! Enjoy full concerts for 2024 and 2025 at just $2000 each, down from the regular $2500 to $5000. Don't miss out on this incredible offer—book now through Wednesday, 11.29, and elevate your entertainment experience!

CLICK HERE for more information, including a list of the fully themed concerts you can book.

Contact Lynzee at lynzee@brockpro.org for a list of available concerts and to arrange your dates and claim your discount



Saturday, November 25, 2023

COMING OUT FOR CHRISTMAS - B3 Theater - December 15-December 23, 2023



In Coming Out for Christmas, a young woman persuades her moms to accept her Asexuality and preference for being in a Poly relationship by crafting a Young Adult novel in the vein of Twilight or The Hunger Games, complete with a cyber-werewolf, a vampire, and her own avatar, a Hybrid being.  This story is warm, genuine, and gives a voice to those who might otherwise not have one.  The heart of the tale is about a teen defining herself through storytelling.

Cast:
Makenna Cunningham (JENNA/JAYLA)
Teru Sanchez (BRIT/BRETT)
Angel Sicairos (VANESSA/VIXEN)
Carolyn Woodville (ALPHA and SOUL READER)
Amy Carpenter (LIZ)
Marcella Grassa (HEATHER and SYSTEM LEADER)

SCHEDULE & TICKETS
Fri. December 15th 2023, 7:00 pm
Sat. December 16th 2023, 2:00 pm
Sat. December 16th 2023, 7:00 pm
Fri. December 22nd 2023, 7:00 pm
Sat. December 23rd 2023, 2:00 pm
Sat. December 23rd 2023, 7:00 pm

B3 THEATER
B3 Theater is queer friendly and overwhelmingly run by female and non-binary leaders.  We do new and underproduced works, giving a voice to those who might otherwise not have one.

Friday, November 24, 2023

Auditions for the role of Charlie in CHARLIE AND THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY at Arizona Broadway Theatre announced for December 5



Arizona Broadway Theatre will hold youth auditions for the role of Charlie Bucket in its 23 | 24 Season production of "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory" on Tuesday, December 5, from 6:30-8 p.m. 

Character Breakdown:

*Charlie Bucket is the emotional heart and soul of the musical. The actor performing Charlie should have an unchanged voice and lots of pluck and enthusiasm. Charlie should be a great singer and an excellent actor. Must read between 9 and 12 years old.

Gender: Male Identifying 
Vocal range top: F5
Vocal range bottom: A3

*CHARLIE WILL BE THE ONLY ACTOR BEING PLAYED BY A CHILD 

If your child fits the requirements above, please email StephenH@azbroadway.org to register for an audition slot and to receive additional details.

Cast announced for RUDOLPH THE RED-NOSED REINDEER, JR at Spotlight Youth Theatre



Rudolph... Aiden Haren
Sam... Elin Williams
Santa Claus... Griffin Wilbur
Mrs. Claus... Kate Logan
Hermey... AJ Riddle
Yukon Cornelius... Alix Knight
Young Rudolph/Elephant... Bennett Riddle
Donner... Phoenix Solera
Mrs. Donner/Dolly... Abby Baumbach
Fireball/Plane... Daniel Parascandola
Clarice... Serena Shorey
Boss Elf/Charlie In-the-Box... Ayden Newton
Abominable Snowman... Cory Kalman
Herald Reporter/Reindeer... Lyric Sharpe
Daily Mail Rep/Reindeer... Cora Hancock
Train/Reindeer... Belle Torres
Clarice’s Dad/Bird Fish... Finley Wilbur
Coach Comet/Cowboy... Peyton Johns
King Moonracer/Elf... Kingston Petty-Purcell
Chronicler Reporter/Elf... Isabella Hines
Chicago Reporter/Elf... Liberty Sharpe
Misfit Toy/Elf... Adelaide J. Bankhead Sheets

Cast announced for ANASTASIA: THE MUSICAL (YOUTH EDITION) at East Valley Children's Theatre