CRIMES OF THE HEART - Theatre Artists Studio - September 4 - 20, 2015

by Beth Henley

The Studio is excited to open its new season with the American classic and Pulitzer Prize Winner, Crimes of the Heart, by Beth Henley!

In Hazlehurst, Mississippi, the three Magrath sisters have gathered to await news of their grandfather, who is living out his final hours in the local hospital. Lenny, the oldest sister, is unmarried and facing diminishing marital prospects.  Middle sister, Meg, who quickly outgrew Hazlehurst, is back at home after a failed singing career on the West Coast.  Babe, the youngest, is out on bail after having shot her husband. Their troubles are both grave and laughable as, together, they try to escape the past and seize their future.

Directed by Brad Allen, The Studio production features members Dee Rich as Lenny, Debra Rich as Meg, Ashley Faulkner as Babe, Julie Lee as Chick Boyles, the sisters' cousin and Aaron Seever as Doc Porter, along with guest artist Joshua Vern as Barnette Lloyd.

A touching and consistently hilarious story that will linger in the mind long after the lights fade to black, Theatre Artists Studio presents Crimes of the Heart from September 4-20 at The Studio, located two blocks east of Tatum Blvd., and just north of Cactus Road on Paradise Village Parkway East, on the west side of the street. Show times are Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights at 7:30 pm and Sundays at 2:00 pm.

Tickets are $20 for General Admission, $10 for Students 25 & Under and $15 for Groups of 10 or More, Seniors 65 and over and Members of the Military.

This production is being presented under the auspices of the Actor's Equity Association Members Project Code.

CLICK HERE for more information and to order tickets

AMERICAN MYTH - Theatre Artists Studio - October 17 - November 1, 2015

by Christina Gorman  

Based on actual events, American Myth follows a young journalist who accuses his former history professor of making up biographical anecdotes that the eager writer had included as facts in a laudatory profile of the famous man. This highly topical play explores intriguing moral questions in today's controversy-saturated society where the smallest public misstep can result in utter catastrophe. We meet the disaffected former student, seething with injured innocence and idealism, egged on by his sensation-seeking editor. We see the loyal, sacrificing wife, caught and confused by her husband's complexity. And, finally, we watch a great man, a teacher of facts, facing a very public humiliation and his own private truths.

"...American Myth [is] riveting. This play continues to make me wonder about the interpretation of history from a personal perspective. What should we believe? What should we question? What is the American Myth?" —The Fourth Walsh

CLICK HERE for more information and to order tickets

CINDERELLA - Theatre Artists Studio - November 27 - December 13, 2015

Music, Lyrics and Book by Ezra Weiss  

This is definitely not your Disney Cinderella. A fresh new take on the fairytale favorite, this delightful new musical offers a rollicking good time for the whole family. Join our tap-dancing Cinderella and her Prince, their Dance Instructor/Fairy Godmother, Madam Tatyana, the soave and debonair Armando and the rest of the zany cast for this fast-paced and very funny musical romp. With numbers like I Just Wanna Dance, I Can Do Anything, Practice Makes Perfect and The Show Must Go On, you'll be humming and toe-tapping all the way home.

CLICK HERE for more information and to order tickets

GRAND CONCOURSE - Theatre Artists Studio - January 15 – 31, 2016

by Heidi Schreck  

Having dedicated her life to religious service, Shelley runs a Bronx soup kitchen with unsentimental efficiency, but lately her heart's not quite in it. Her brisk nature masks an unsettling fear that her efforts are meaningless. When Emma — an idealistic but confused college dropout — arrives to volunteer, her reckless mix of generosity and self-involvement pushes Shelley to the breaking point. With keen humor and startling compassion, this fascinating play navigates the mystery of faith, the limits of forgiveness, and the pursuit of something resembling joy.

"Grand Concourse may well break your heart. You may need tissues by the end." —New York Post

"Insightful with a moving, even shocking epiphany." —Huffington Post

Grand Concourse [is] a brutal response to the notion of unconditional forgiveness and never-ending charity. With its pointed perspective and merciless plot, Grand Concourse is likely to rouse flashes of anger and sadness. A master provocateur of a playwright, it's nearly impossible to walk away unscathed by Scheck's harrowing tale." —TheatreMania

CLICK HERE for more information and to order tickets

THE WEIR - Theatre Artists Studio - February 26 – March 13, 2016

by Conor McPherson  

In a remote country pub in Ireland, newcomer Valerie arrives and becomes spellbound by an evening of ghostly stories told by the local bachelors who drink there. With a whiff of sexual tension in the air and the wind whistling outside, what starts out as blarney soon turns dark as the tales drift into the realm of the supernatural. Then, Valerie reveals a startling story of her own . . . Conor McPherson's The Weir is a haunting, evocative evening in the theatre you will never forget.

"The Weir proves to be a profound meditation on the twin themes of loneliness and community, told so theatrically that you'll savor each peat-scented phrase. " —The Wall Street Journal

"For shivers, laughs and a night of master storytelling, you cannot top The Weir...there's no better A/C than the chill going up your spine" —Time Out Theater

The Weir, invites us to re-examine the theater, and to ask ourselves what we seek from stories and those who tell them . . . —New York Times

CLICK HERE for more information and to order tickets

THE OUTGOING TIDE - Theatre Artists Studio - April 8 – 24, 2016

by Bruce Graham  

In a summer cottage on Chesapeake Bay, Gunner has hatched an unorthodox plan to secure his family's future but meets with resistance from his wife and son, who have plans of their own. As winter approaches, the three must quickly find common ground and come to an understanding—before the tide goes out. This timely drama hums with dark humor and powerful emotion.

"...this drama brings sensitive observation and minor-key humor to painful situations that many of us will recognize from our own families...its poignant conclusion will have resonance for many in the audience." —NY Times.

"...superb...tightly focused piece about a family of three...Graham zeroes in on recognizable truths." —Chicago Tribune.

"The characters are well-drawn, the dialogue is pungent...The script's frequent time shifts from present to past and back again are handled with a telling simplicity...may well flood your emotions with its emotional truth." —BackStage.

CLICK HERE for more information and to order tickets

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY OFFENDERS: MUSIC FROM SOUTH PARK - Theatre Artists Studio - May 20 - June 5, 2016

Experience the brilliance, relevance and irreverence of Trey Parker, Matt Stone and their crafty South Park antics (and more) through this documentary musical revue. (Documusical? Musicmentary? You decide!) After decades on the air, South Park has earned its place as a cultural icon. Equal Opportunity Offenders features hits from the television series and their feature film, Bigger, Longer, & Uncut, with numbers such as "Kyle's Mom's a Bitch" and "Blame Canada." Beyond South Park, this revue also explores songs from Trey and Matt's other works, including The Book of Mormon, Team America, and Cannibal, The Musical. This show is intended for Mature Audiences Only.

CLICK HERE for more information and to order tickets

NEW SUMMER SHORTS 2016 - Theatre Artists Studio - June 16 - June 26, 2016

Our summer festival of short plays penned by Studio playwrights is an annual favorite of our audiences. Some comical, some dramatic, some completely absurd, they all add up to 90 minutes of unique theatre you won't experience anywhere else.

CLICK HERE for more information and to order tickets

A CHRISMAS CAROL & THE SANTALAND DIARIES - Arizona Theatre Company - December 10 - 26, 2015

The Santaland Diaries
Written by David Sedaris. Adapted for the Stage by Joe Mantello.
Directed by David Ira Goldstein
Starring Ron May

A Christmas Carol

Written by Charles Dickens

Adapted and Directed by Matthew Wiener

Starring Katie McFadzen

Ron May
photo: John Groseclose

from our friends at Arizona Theatre Company:

Two of the Valley’s favorite and most-celebrated actors will bring their special gifts to the holiday season in limited engagement one-person performances of Charles Dickens’ beloved holiday classic, A Christmas Carol, and David Sedaris’ hilarious anti-holiday tale, The Santaland Diaries.  Produced by Arizona Theatre Company in association with the Herberger Theatre Center, both shows will play in an intimate custom-built 250-seat stage-within-a-stage located in the grandly theatrical setting of Center Stage in downtown Phoenix.

            Katie McFadzen will use Dickens’ own immortal words to turn the family-friendly A Christmas Carol into a one-woman tour-de-force as she performs all 27 characters from Scrooge to Tiny Tim.  The edgy, irreverent May will fit right into Sedaris’ cult classic, The Santaland Diaries, the wickedly true, outrageously funny tale of best-selling humorist Sedaris’ tenure as an unemployed writer taking a job as Crumpet the Elf in Macy’s Santaland display.

            Both shows will be performed on an alternating schedule from Thursday, Dec. 10 through Saturday, Dec. 26.  Ticket prices for both shows range from $23-$51.

            A Christmas Carol will be adapted and directed by Matthew Wiener, who put his own unique touch on the popular Dickens tale for more than 19 years while with Actors Theatre of Phoenix. The Santaland Diaries, adapted for the stage by Joe Mantello, will be directed by ATC Artistic Director David Ira Goldstein.

Santaland Diaries
Thursday, December 10 at 7:30pm - preview
Saturday December 12, at 8:00 pm - opening performance
Sunday December 13, at 7:00 pm
Thursday, December 17, at 7:30 pm
Saturday December 19, at 8:00 pm
Saturday December 19, at 10:00 pm
Sunday December 20, at 7:00 pm
Tuesday December 22, at 7:30 pm
Wednesday December 23, at 10:00 pm

Katie McFadzen
photo: John Groseclose

A Christmas Carol
Friday, December 11 at 8:00 PM - preview
Saturday, December 12 at 1:00 PM - preview
Saturday, December 12 at 4:00 PM - opening performance
Sunday, December 13 at 1:00 PM
Sunday, December 13 at 4:00 PM
Wednesday, December 16 at 7:30 PM
Friday, December 18 at 8:00 PM
Saturday, December 19 at 2:00 PM
Sunday, December 20 at 1:00 PM
Sunday, December 20 at 4:00 PM
Wednesday, December 23 at 2:00 PM
Wednesday, December 23 at 7:30 PM
Thursday, December 24 at 2:00 PM
Saturday, December 26 at 1:00 PM

Tickets can be purchased by visiting the Herberger Theater Center Box Office, calling (602) 256-6995 or at www.arizonatheatre.org

            The Santaland Diaries and A Christmas Carol are being produced in association with the Herberger Theater Center.

Set and Light Design: Paul Black
Costume Design: Kish Finnegan
Sound Design: Brian Peterson

audition notice - ANY NUMBER CAN DIE - Fountain Hills Theater - September 8 & 9

Playwrighter: Fred Carmichael
Director: Peter J. Hill

Rehearsals Begin: 09/12/2015
Performance Dates: 10/16/2015 – 11/01/2015

Synopsis
A hilarious take off on the mystery plays of the Twenties complete with sliding panels, robed figures, wills being read at midnight. The idioms, costumes, hairdos, and make-up of the period add to the thrills and laughter. Four ingenious murders take place in an island mansion as a pair of elderly detectives set to work on their first case. The ever popular storm, the unexpected guests, the cryptic poem, and the missing fortune add to the intricate & inventive mystery off which the laughs bounce

Character Breakdown

CHUCK – a likable young man in his early twenties. (Might double as Jack or Carter)

JUDY – a pretty girl slightly younger than Chuck. (Might double as Sally)

ZENIA – a fair skinned Haitian, Creole, when she speaks it is with a Haitian accent. Half French. Her voice is low and resounding. She seems set apart from the rest of the world and as if she knows things before they happen.

ROGER MASTERS – a dignified lawyer and he looks the part. He is somewhere near sixty with silver hair and a moustache. He is precise and, from his attitude, a successful business man.

CELIA LATHROP – a sophisticated woman of the world in her mid-forties. She is hard and determined and when she makes up her mind to get something nothing stands in her way.

T.J. LATHORP – slightly older than Celia. He is an admitted failure, but through it all has an endearing sense of humor, but one feels he is capable of great strength when the situation calls for it.

EDGARS – gives the appearance of something out of a Transylvanian horror story. His gray-flecked hair is combed forward over his forehead. His chalky white face has deep-set eyes. His butler’s outfit hangs grotesquely due to his hunched shoulders. When he speaks, it is slow and definite.

ERNESTINE WINTERGREN – somewhere in her 60’s, she is remarkably well-preserved. There is a determination about her which covers her almost elfin, warm-hearted approach to life.

SALLY VANVILLER – the most typical ingénue that ever breathed. She thinks only of the goodness in people and never of herself. Her pretty face is made up with tiny red lips, huge eyes, and the extreme innocence of her youth.

CARTER FORSTMAN – an energetic young man in his late twenties, but there is a coldness behind his eyes. He wears a pencil thin moustache, and his black hair is parted in the middle and plastered down.

JACK REGENT – looks the part of the hero which he is. In his twenties, he is honest beyond all doubt, strong when necessary, but kind-hearted and true at all times.

HANNIBAL HIX – an elderly man with a mass of white curls giving his face a gnome-like quality. He is usually delighted with everything that happens and rarely sees anything but the best side of everything. He has a twinkly look and bouncy gait of an elf and nothing could please him more than to be in the midst of everything that happens.

What To Prepare

Auditioners should prepare to read cold from the script.

Call For Crew

We are still looking for a costume designer for this show. Stipend pay.

Audition Details

Fountain Hills Theater
11445 N. Saguaro Blvd
Fountain Hills, Arizona 85268

FHT is located 1 1/2 miles north of Shea Blvd on Saguaro in Fountain Hills which is North East of Scottsdale.

Appointment Contact
Allsion Hacker
(480)837-9661
allison@fhtaz.org

Audition Dates and Times:
Tuesday, September 8 @ 7:00pm & Wednesday, September 9 @ 7:00 pm
Callback Dates and Times:
Wednesday, September 9 @ 8:30pm – if required

reviews - SOMETHING'S AFOOT - Hale Centre Theatre

Janis Webb, Stephen Serna, Ami Porter, Matthew Ryan Harris,
Jacqueline Brecker and Mark Kleinman
photo: Nick Woodward-Shaw Photographer,
and Jeff A. Davis; Davis Entertainment for Lighting Design

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 October 10th.

"The musical Something's Afoot...is a spoofy homage to the murder/mystery genre, specifically the mysteries of Agatha Christie, that centers on ten murder suspects stranded in a remote house. Hale Centre Theatre's production has a sublime cast and bright and inventive creative aspects. Even though the score is particularly weak, it still amounts to a fun and enjoyable show....Loosely based on Christie's "Ten Little Indians," the show is a spoof consisting of standard mystery characters... Written over forty years ago, Something's Afoot has found some success in regional theatre. I have to believe that's more to do with how popular the mystery genre is and the fun aspect of trying to figure out just who the killer is, rather than the score, which is fair at best...most of the songs don't add much to the drama and occasionally get in the way of the unfolding mystery; in fact, most of the score could be removed without any loss to the narrative. Fortunately, the plot isn't completely predictable, so it does keep you guessing, and Hale has a cast made up of many Hale veterans who go a long way, with the gifted contributions of director and choreographer Cambrian James, to inject the production with a sense of playfulness within the suspense.  A true ensemble show, the cast is led by Janis Webb as Miss Tweed. Webb brings the right amount of sensibility and smarts to the determined amateur sleuth. Matthew Ryan Harris is a hoot as the penniless conniving nephew up to no good. His delivery of the witty "The Legal Heir" is full of fun and funny gymnastic movements and gestures, nicely staged by James. Jacqueline Brecker and Curtis Lunt are charming as the constantly sunny, young lovers while Heidi Liz Johnson and Geoffrey Goorin are delicious as the flirty maid and the randy groundskeeper. Both Goorin and Johnson have great Cockney accents and hilarious facial expressions, bringing a nice bit of jaunty double meaning to their duet, "Problematical Solution."...James' staging and choreography play up the fun, silly, spoofy nature of the musical, with some superb movement that uses the entire in-the-round stage area...Brian Daily, Alex Fogle, and Monica Christiansen are to be commended for their lovely set designs, which include a spiffy grand entry hall. Daily and Fogle's crafty special effects and Christiansen's fun prop designs combine to contribute an abundance of items situated around the theatre, including family portraits, secret compartments, and booby traps to do in the guests. Mary Atkinson's costumes accentuate the characteristic traits of each role with plenty of pops of color and smashing, elegant dresses for the women and dashing coats and suits for the men. Jeff A. Davis' lighting is impeccable, full of suspenseful shadows and lighting effects...There is definitely a lot of silliness in Something's Afoot and the score leaves a lot to be desired. Fortunately Hale's top-notch cast, spirited direction and exceptional creative aspects outweigh the negatives and turn the whole affair into a fun and funny affair of mystery, suspense, and plenty of comical intrigue."  -Gil Benbrook, Talkin' Broadway (click here to read the complete review)

"Gilbert's Hale Theatre opened their 2015-16 season this weekend with a muffled bang.... and a strangle and some poisoning and blunt trauma. So much murderous laughter ensued throughout their Something's Afoot Agatha Christie murder-mystery spoof last night, a 1976 Broadway musical that had a subsequently stronger run in London the next year. In typical Hale fashion, the staging was inventive and the acting top notch. ...the action clipped right along while the corpses piled ever higher in the library. Leading the cast was a proper sherry-swilling sleuth, Miss Tweed, well spoofed by Janis Webb. Probably the most secure in his guiltily innocent character creation was comedic actor Geoffrey Goorin as Flint, the gardener.  Planting the audience's feet firmly in a 1930s English countryside estate with an American bent, were a dashing set and especially fitting period costumes. ... It helped that sweet soprano Jacqueline Brecker as Hope flowed always with Rogers-like elegance.
All in all the score teems with relatively forgettable music. There's no allowance for powerhouse vocalises or melt-your-heart harmonies that might be burning in these actors' breasts. It is however an apt vehicle for whizzing, clever lyrics and an 'undyingly' cute plot, even if British comedy isn't exactly your cup of tea....." -Jennifer Haaland, Examiner.com (click here to read the complete review)

promo photos - SHREK, JR - Musical Theatre of Anthem

for more information on this production, that runs September 24 to October 4, click here

Lily Castle as Fiona, Mychal Leverage as Shrek, Photo Credit Michele Celentano

ticket discount - CHICAGO - Phoenix Theatre

from our friends at Phoenix Theatre:

Get back to the theatre with a truly killer musical spectacular!

Purchase your seats by 9/4/15 and receive 30% off first week performances. 20% off all other performances*

*Valid on Premium, Tier One and Tier Two seating only. Tickets subject to availability. Use online promo code: FBCHICAGO

CLICK HERE to purchase tickets!

THE PRINCESS AND THE PEA - East Valley Children's Theatre - October 1 - 11, 2015

by Jason Tremblay

You've heard the story before, but never did it end quite like this. A modern spin on Hans Christian Anderson's beloved Princess and the Pea, this theatrical adventure follows young Olivia's rise from forest peasant to the throne of Wisendorf. When the old king dies, Prince Xander must find a new queen to rule. Bickering princesses flood the palace to claim the throne. One by one, they fail a series of tests designed to find a princess of true sensitivity. In the icy north, the great witch Titiana gathers her army of Malicious Malcontents with plans to make the kingdom her own. Who is true and who is false? And how can a tiny pea tell them all apart? This fresh take on the familiar classic is full of romance and laughter, magic tapestries, palace spies, and lots and lots of mattresses.

Thursday October 1, 7 pm
Friday October 2, 7 pm
Saturday October 3, 4 pm
Saturday October 3, 7 pm
Sunday October 4, 2 pm
Thursday October 8, 7 pm
Friday October 9, 7 pm
Saturday October 10, 4 pm
Saturday October 10, 7 pm
Sunday October 11, 2 pm *ASL

CLICK HERE for more information and to purchase tickets

YES, VIRGINIA, THERE IS A SANTA CLAUS - East Valley Children's Theatre - December 3 - 13, 2015

By Karen Rolston
Original Music by Kathie McMahon

Two compelling stories come together in this heartwarming play inspired by the famous editorial by Francis P. Church, Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus. On Christmas Eve, 1897, in New York City, eight-year-old Virginia is left pondering whether or not Santa really exists after a series of unhappy events. Meanwhile, a young newspaper editor also struggles against tough holiday times as he is faced with losing his job if he can't find his writer's voice by morning. Even though they don't know each other, the spirit of Christmas is about to bring these people together, creating in the process an unforgettable and cherished part of classic Christmas folklore.

Thursday December 3, 7 pm
Friday December 4, 7 pm
Saturday December 5, 4 pm
Saturday December 5, 7 pm
Sunday December 6, 2 pm *ASL
Thursday, December 10, 7 pm
Friday, December 11, 7 pm
Saturday, December 12, 4 pm
Saturday, December 12, 7 pm
Sunday, December 13, 2 pm

CLICK HERE for more information and to purchase tickets

SIXTY-SEVEN CINDERELLAS - East Valley Children's Theatre - February 11-21, 2016

by Stacey Lane

The king and queen throw a ball to help their son choose a bride. The shy Prince Dalliance decides to wait for a magical sign to make his life-altering decision for him. When a beautiful and mysterious lady in a sparkling blue gown appears, he is certain she is his one true love. Before he can learn anything about her, she runs off, leaving only a glass slipper behind. With the help of Elise, his faithful servant and best friend, the prince sets out to find his love by trying the shoe on every woman in his kingdom. Ladies try on the shoe. More ladies’ feet fit in the shoe. More weddings almost happen. Finally, the prince discovers Cinderella, hidden away by her evil stepmother and stepsisters. But smart Cinderella isn’t ready to marry some stranger who can only recognize her by her shoe size. Sixty-Seven Cinderellas debunks ridiculous traditional storybook notions of romance and what it means to be a princess

Thursday February 11, 7 pm

Friday February 12, 7 pm 

Saturday February 13, 4 pm 

Saturday February 13, 7 pm 

Sunday February 14, 2 pm *ASL 

Thursday February 18, 7 pm

Friday February 19, 7 pm

Saturday February 20, 4 pm

Saturday February 20, 7 pm 

Sunday February 21, 2 pm 

CLICK HERE for more information and to purchase tickets

SNOW WHITE AND ROSE RED - East Valley Children's Theatre - June 16 - 26, 2016

By C. Lynn Johnson
Music by Joshua David Martin

Do not be fooled, Snow White is no sleeping princess-in-waiting and Rose Red has no fear of wolves donning her granny's nightie. In this spirited Brothers Grimm adaptation, they are sisters who are cast from the opulent palace to survive with their parents in the Dark Forest. Not only do they survive, they thrive using their skills and wits. And when Prince Nikolai wanders into the forest and runs across a rather unpleasant dwarf, it is up to Snow White and Rose Red to work together to free him from a terrible curse! Join our unlikely heroes as they battle the dwarf and his nasty crew, a shrewish Dowager Empress and the bumbling antics of a spoiled prince-turned-bear in this tale of magic, laughter and the special bond between sisters.

Thursday June 16, 7 pm
Friday June 17, 7 pm
Saturday June 18, 4 pm
Saturday June 18, 7 pm
Sunday June 19, 2 pm *ASL
Friday June 24, 7 pm
Saturday June 25, 4 pm
Saturday June 25, 7 pm
Sunday June 26, 2 pm

CLICK HERE for more information and to purchase tickets

TREASURE ISLAND - Studio 3 Performing Arts - September 4 - September 12, 2015

based on the novel by Robert Louis Stevenson
Adapted by Joseph George Caruso

When this rousing adventure story premiered Off-Broadway, it received unanimous critical acclaim.  Parents Magazine considered it, ‘First rate all the way, a delightful experience,’ and the New York Times called it an ‘inventive classic.’ Treasure Island is certainly one of the most durable adventure stories of all time, with the villainous Long John Silver following young Jim across the ocean to search out a buried fortune on Treasure Island.

Shows: Fri Sept 4 at 6:30pm, Sat Sept 5 at 3:30 & 6:30pm, Fri Sept 11 at 6:30pm, Sat Sept 12 at 6:30pm

Tickets are $10 and $13

Performances at Studio 3 Artspace Theatre. 511 W Guadalupe Rd Suite 12. Gilbert, AZ 85233


CLICK HERE for more information and to order tickets

DISNEY'S THE JUNGLE BOOK KIDS - STUDIO 3 PERFORMING ARTS - October 17

Music and Lyrics by Richard M. Sherman and Robert B. Sherman and Terry Gilkyson
Book and Additional lyrics by Marcy Heisler. Music adapted and arranged by Bryan Louiselle

The jungle is jumpin’ with jazz in Disney’s The Jungle Book KIDS. Specially adapted from the classic film, this musical includes all your favorite Disney tunes, like “The Bare Necessities,” and “I Wan’na Be Like You.”  On the run from Shere Khan, a ferocious tiger who has banished him from the jungle, a human boy named Mowgli is aided by an agile panther named Bagheera. Along the way, the two meet a sinister snake named Kaa, a herd of elephants, and a giant bear named Baloo, who teaches them the swingin’ musical rhythms of the jungle. After surviving a dangerous encounter with a band of monkeys led by King Louie, Mowgli and Bagheera are forced to run for their lives. Shere Khan returns, leading our protagonists to rally their follow jungle creatures into battle and restore peace to the jungle.

Show: Sat, Oct 17 at 12:30pm
Tickets are $7 and $10 each

Performance at Studio 3 Artspace Theatre. 511 W Guadalupe Rd Suite 12. Gilbert, AZ 85233

CLICK HERE for more information and to order tickets

BONNIE & CLYDE - Studio 3 Performing Arts - November 6 - 15, 2015

Music by Frank Wildhorn, Lyrics by Don Black
Book by Ivan Menchell

At the height of the Great Depression, Bonnie Parker and Clyde Barrow went from two small-town nobodies in West Texas to America’s most renowned folk heroes and the Texas law enforcement’s worst nightmares. Their bold and reckless behavior turns the young lovers’ thrilling adventure into a downward spiral, putting themselves and their loved ones in trouble with the law. Forced to stay on the run, the lovers resort to robbery and murder to survive. As the infamous duo’s fame grows bigger, their inevitable end draws nearer.

Shows: Fri Nov 6 at 7pm. Sat Nov 7 at 3:30 & 7pm. Sun Nov 8 at 2:30pm. Wed Nov 11 at 7pm. Fri Nov 13 at 7pm, Sat Nov 14 at 3:30 & 7pm, Sun Nov 15 at 2:30pm.

Tickets are $10, $13, $15 each
Performances at Studio 3 Artspace Theatre. 511 W Guadalupe Rd Suite 12. Gilbert, AZ 85233


CLICK HERE for more information and to order tickets

SNOOPY! - Studio 3 Performing Arts - December 4 - 13, 2015

Based on the comic strip “PEANUTS” by Charles M. Schulz
Book by Charles M. Schulz Creative Associates,
Warren Lockhart, Arthur Whitelaw and Michael L. Grace
Music by Larry Grossman, Lyrics by Hal Hackady

 It’s remarkable! Fantastic! Entertaining! Yes, Charles M. Schulz has done it again. SNOOPY!!! the musical sequel to YOU’RE A GOOD MAN, CHARLIE BROWN deserves each of its three exclamation points. Based on the world renowned “Peanuts” comic strip, it delights every audience with the quiet knowledge and wit of its characters.

Shows: Fri Dec 4 at 6:30pm, Sat Dec 5 at 3:30pm, Sun Dec 6 at 2:30pm, Fri Dec 11 at 6:30pm. Sat, Dec 12 at 3:30 & 6:30pm, Sun, Dec 13 at 2:30pm.

Performances at Studio 3 Artspace Theatre. 511 W Guadalupe Rd Suite 12. Gilbert, AZ 85233


CLICK HERE for more information and to order tickets

SHREK THE MUSICAL, JR - Studio 3 Performing Arts - January 27 - 31, 2016

Music by Jeanine Tesori
Book and Lyrics by David Lindsay-Abaire
Based on the DreamWorks Animation Motion Picture and the book by William Steig

It’s a “big bright beautiful world” for everyone’s favorite ogre in Shrek The Musical JR., based on the Oscar-winning DreamWorks Animation film. In a faraway kingdom, the green ogre Shrek finds his swamp invaded by banished fairytale misfits, runaways who’ve been cast off by Lord Farquaad, a tiny terror with big ambitions. When Shrek sets off with a wise-cracking donkey to confront Farquaad, he’s handed a task – if he rescues feisty Princess Fiona from the Dragon-guarded tower, his swamp will be returned to him. But, a fairy tale wouldn’t be complete without unexpected twists and turns along the way.

Shows: Wed Jan 27 at 7pm, Thur Jan 28 at 7pm, Fri Jan 29 at 7pm, Sat Jan 30 at 12, 3:30, and 7pm, Sun Jan 31 at 2:30pm.

Performances at The Mesa Arts Center. 1 E Main Street. Mesa, AZ 85208

CLICK HERE for more information and to order tickets

JOSEPH AND THE AMAZING TECHNICOLOR DREAMCOAT - Studio 3 Performing Arts - March 30 - April 3, 2016

Music by Andrew Lloyd Webber, Lyrics by Time Rice

The Biblical saga of Joseph and his coat of many colors comes to vibrant life in this delightful musical parable. Joseph, his father’s favorite son, is a boy blessed with prophetic dreams. When he is sold into slavery by his jealous brothers and taken to Egypt, Joseph endures a series of adventures in which his spirit and humanity are continually challenged. Set to an engaging cornucopia of musical styles, from country-western and calypso to bubble-gum pop and rock ‘n’ roll, this Old Testament tale emerges both timely and timeless.

Shows: Wed Mar 30 at 7pm, Thur Mar 31 at 7pm, Fri Apr 1 at 7pm, Sat Apr 2 at 3:30 and 7pm, Sun Apr 3 at 2:30pm.

Performances at The Mesa Arts Center. 1 E Main Street. Mesa, AZ 85208

CLICK HERE for more information and to order tickets

TIMEWARP - Studio 3 Performing Arts - June 11 2016

Timewarp: A musical revue featuring the students of Studio 3 Performing Arts Academy. Take a trip back in time with this fun revue of all your favorite time periods though musical theatre and dance! Starring the award winning Showstoppers Show Choir and 3DC Dance Company.

Show: Saturday, June 11 at 4pm.

CLICK HERE for more information and to order tickets

African American actor needed for Zao's TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD

Zao Theatre needs an older Black Male Actor (ages 35-70) to portray Reverend Sykes in their production of TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD

This show performs in Apache Junction and runs Oct 30 - Nov 14

Call director Mickey Bryce at 480.216.9333 if you are interested or know of someone who is interested

For more information on this production, that runs October 30 to November 14, CLICK HERE

photos - SOMETHING'S AFOOT - Hale Centre Theatre

for more information on this production, that runs through October 10th, click here

photos: Nick Woodward-Shaw Photographer, and Jeff A. Davis; Davis Entertainment for Lighting Design

reviews - 42ND STREET - Spotlight Youth Theatre

Katie Czajkowski and Michael Schulz (center) and the cast
Photo: Alayne Vogel, Memory Layne 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 September 13.

Based on the classic Warner Brothers 1933 musical of the same name, 42nd Street is a nostalgic look at the backstage shenanigans of a Broadway musical...Spotlight Youth Theatre’s opening production at its home base in Glendale is a wonderful way of helping audiences temporarily escape the late summer doldrums; it’s the theater’s season opener and it’s great fun. Peggy Sawyer (Katie Czajkowski) is the wide-eyed innocent fresh off the bus from Allentown, Pennsylvania.  She’s in New York to follow her dreams at a time when money and employment, not to mention food, were hard to come by.  She does what many other young women of New York did at the time – as a way escaping the reality of starving on the streets she auditions for the chorus of a Broadway show.  Fortunately for Peggy, she’s actually better than many of the girls already dancing, and in true wish-fulfillment Hollywood style, it’s not long before she’s hired.  You’re familiar with the rest; the prima donna star, Dorothy Brock (Kira Kadel) breaks an ankle and it’s young Peggy, the chorus girl, who goes on in her place.  “You’re going out there as a youngster,” declares director Julian Marsh (Michael Schultz), “But you’ve got to come back a star!”...The young cast tackles Alicia Frazier’s demanding tap-dancing choreography with the same kind of energy displayed by those Hollywood hoofers of the time...Kira Kadel as prima donna Dorothy has a standout duet with Peggy with About a Quarter to Nine, while Sydnie Greger comically shines as chorus girl Anytime Annie.  Phoenix Briggs delivers the right amount of eager, boyish charm as Billy, but the two you’ll remember are Michael Schulz as demanding director Julian Marsh and Katie Czajkowski as Peggy.... both Michael and Katie have taken the casting opportunity afforded and, under director Kenny Grossman’s guidance, delivered the kind of performances deserving of extra future attention. Those individual moments when both actors share the stage, working together, help elevate the overall production to another level.  And if together they can’t help you forget the late summer doldrums, nothing will. " -David Appleford, Valley Screen and Stage (click here to read the complete review)

"There is a line in the musical 42nd Street where one of the adult characters in the show exuberantly proclaims “she’s young, kids can do anything.” The same statement could be made about the extremely talented cast of young performers in Spotlight Youth Theatre’s production of this classic backstage musical. These kids may all be in their teens but they act, sing and dance with an infectious glee, full of professionalism and charm, which make Spotlight’s production of this classic, dance heavy show a musical comedy treat....While the story is extremely lightweight and predictable, the virtual non-stop dancing throughout and the infectious songs...make the end result a joyful experience. ...Director Kenny Grossman doesn’t make a single misstep, ensuring that the comedy moments are funny, and that the charm of the characters isn’t lost beneath the abundance of vibrant dancing, exceptionally choreographed by Alicia Frazier. ...As Peggy Sawyer, Katie Czajkowski is appropriately naïve, energetic, spunky and bright eyed. Her radiant personality and lovely dancing and singing have the audience rooting for her to succeed. Michael Schulz instills the demanding director Julian Marsh with the right amount of steadfast power that the role requires but he also shows hints of charm, fatherly advice and even a touch of vulnerability, turning what could easily be a wooden role into a three dimensional person. While Schulz doesn’t sing much in the show his solo version of the title song at the finale is excellently delivered. ...Kira Kadel gives Dorothy the right balance of vulnerability, fierceness and maturity and a big dusting of old time star power that combine to bring the role vibrantly alive, full of layers and nuance. Kadel’s flawless line delivery, facial reactions and comic timing are spot on and her earthy, bold and brassy voice works well with Dorothy’s solos, including a perfect take on “I Only Have Eyes for You” and a touching duet of “About a Quarter to Nine” that she and Czajkowski deliver perfectly. ...While Spotlight’s stage isn’t very large, Grossman manages to open it up as far as possible to make the large dance sequences come to life....Frazier’s choreography... is full of lively dance step...Rhea Courtney and Richard “Mickey” Courtney’s costumes are period perfect, including numerous outfits for the whole cast for both the many Pretty Lady dance sequences as well as appropriate street clothes. Trey DeGroodt’s hair and make-up designs are exceptional, firmly rooted in the 1930’s...With an exceptional cast, lively staging and an abundance of virtual non-stop dancing, Spotlight Youth Theatre’s 42nd Street is a knock out."  -Gil Benbrook, Talkin' Broadway (click here to read the complete review)

promo photos - THE WIZ - Mesa Encore Theatre

for more information on this production, that runs September 11 to September 20, click here

Dorothy - Jacqui Monet
Scarecrow - Shawn Wong
Tin Man - Matravius Avent
Lion - Nathaniel Tenenbaum

Photos by Wade Moran