Monthly More Theatre Articles

February 2015
MORE THEATRE
By Melinda O’Brien & Michael Muldoon

WESTCHESTER BROADWAY THEATRE: CAMELOT

Camelot is on stage from January 29th through April 5th. Lerner and Loewe’s timeless masterpiece, Camelot was inspired by T. H. White’s chivalric tale, The Once and Future King. It is considered one of history’s greatest love stories. King Arthur and his new queen, Guinevere, rule their kingdom with ideals of chivalry and peace, but the arrival of Sir Lancelot threatens the foundation of the realm in one of the most fabled love triangles of all time. Directed and choreographed by Broadway veteran, Richard Sabellico, this exciting new, intimate, production focuses on the dynamic and rich, intense characters in this most regal of American musicals. The Musical Director is Ryan Edward Wise who recently worked with Richard on mounting this new version at The Mt. Gretna Playhouse in Pennsylvania.

This production stars; Clark Carmichael as Arthur, Jennifer Hope Wills as Guinevere, Jeremiah James as Lancelot, Martin Van Treuren as Merlyn / Pellinore, Jordon Wolfe as Mordred, Emily Brockwayas Lady Anne/Nimue, Dan Fenaughty as Dinadan, Michael Glavan as Sagramore, Billy Hepfinger as Sir Lionel, Nina Kompanek and Damian Shembel in the Ensemble.

Set Design is by Kyle Dixon, Lighting Design is by Andrew Gmoser, Sound Design is by Jonathan Hatton and Mark Zuckerman, Costume Design is by Janell Berté. The Technical Director is Steve Loftus, The Production Stage Manager is Victor Lukas, properties are by Grumpy Props. As with all our productions, Lisa Tiso is the Associate Producer.

Ticket Prices Dinner & Show range between $54.00 and $80.00 plus tax, depending on the performances chosen. Beverage Service & Gratuities are not included in the ticket price. Discounts are available for children, students, and senior citizens at selected performances. Also check the website for on-going Special Offers! More news and information at: www.BroadwayTheatre.com or Call 914-592-2222.

SUNDAY CONCERT SERIES: IN CONCERT WITH C.B. SMITH

A FREE Concert “In Concert with C.B. Smith” on Sunday, February 1at 2:00 pm. This Hudson Valley singer/songwriter returns to the Hart Library with a new crop of original Americana songs from his new release, “Bluebird,” and material from his long career. Expect dazzling guitar work and thoughtful, literate songwriting.

The March 1 concert will be the “Stacy Phillips & Paul Howard Duet” also at 2:00 pm. Stacy Phillips and Paul Howard have been elite members of the American acoustic music community for many years. They continue to combine their talents to create an exciting style they call Neo-Urban Traditional Music, a combination of the sensibility of traditional music through the lens of an urban upbringing. The duo performs a wide range of material- Jazz, Caribbean dances, Hawaiian hulas, bluegrass, calypso and East European gypsy music as well as their unique, original compositions. Stacy Phillips and Paul Howard have done several tours of Europe, Australia and the West Coast and have two CDs, one self-titled and the other, “Neo Urban Traditions.”

The John C. Hart Memorial Library is at 1130 East Main Street, Shrub Oak, NY 10588. No registration, doors open at 1:45 pm. For more information go to the website or call 914-245-5262, ext. 227.
YORKTOWN STAGE: DISNEY’S ALADDIN JR.

Disney’s Aladdin JR. is a one-act, seven-scene theatre musical adapted from the animated Disney film Aladdin. The production runs 70 minutes and is being presented by Yorktown Stage February 27-28, 2015. Both the story and music in this truncated version closely follow the original film. All of your favorite characters from the hit Disney film – Aladdin, Jasmine, Iago, Jafar, the Genie, and more – are here in Disney’s Aladdin JR., a musical adventure filled with magic, mayhem, and flying carpet rides. An ensemble of townspeople, shop owners, harem girls, princes, and others fill the stage for the festivities. Audiences will be treated to a tuneful Academy award-winning score, with songs by Alan Menken, Howard Ashman, and Tim Rice, including “A Whole New World,” “Arabian Nights” and “Friend Like Me.”

The production stars 40 extraordinary young actors. “This cast brings an exciting energy to the production, which will delight children and adults alike” said Barry Liebman, Executive Producer of Yorktown Stage. The talented and creative Augie Abatecola returns to direct and choreograph. “This is a wildly funny and exuberant show, with a solid score replete with hummable tunes,” said Abatecola. “As in the past, we have cast our theatre’s and, hopefully, Broadway’s future stars.”

Disney’s Aladdin, JR. is presented Friday, February 27, 2015 at 7:30 PM and Saturday, February 28, 2015 at 1:00 PM. Yorktown Stage is located in the Yorktown Community Cultural Center, at 1974 Commerce Street (off Veterans Road) in Yorktown Heights, NY. Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for seniors and children. All tickets are reserved. Tickets may be purchased online www.yorktownstage.org or by calling 962-0606.

THEATERWORKS NEW MILFORD: THE LYONS

TheatreWorks New Milford will be opening its 2015 Main Stage Season with Nicky Silver’s scathing comedy-drama, The Lyons. The Lyons runs February 20 – March 14. Curtain time is 8:00 p.m. Fridays & Saturdays, with a 2:00 p.m. Sunday matinee on March 8. Tickets for all shows are $23 for reserved seating. Students and Military personnel with ID will be admitted for $18. On Thursday, February 19, Senior Citizens are invited to a free dress rehearsal at 8:00 p.m. Thursday, February 26 at 8:00 p.m. is TheatreWorks’ Pay-What-You-Want night. At this performance, patrons name the price for their ticket. Reservations can be made online at THEATREWORKS.US or by calling the box office at 860-350-6863.

The story begins as Ben Lyons lays dying in a hospital room. Rita, his wife of forty years, flips through decorating magazines, planning a living room makeover. It’s clear this couple has been at war for most of their lives. When they’re joined by their children, Lisa and Curtis, the pent-up acrimony increases and all efforts at a sentimental goodbye are soon abandoned. After Curtis’s desperate attempt to make a new connection ends disastrously, each of THE LYONS take their first tentative steps toward making a new human connection in this intense and comedic tale.

The production features some of the finest actors in the region: Elizabeth Young, Courtney Lauria, Jody Bayer, William Hughes, Joseph Russo, and James Hipp. The Lyons is under the direction of Matt Austin.

TheatreWorks is an award-winning, non-Equity theatre company, named Best Community Theater in Connecticut by Connecticut Magazine. TheatreWorks is located on 5 Brookside Avenue , just off Route 202 (next to the CVS), in New Milford , CT.

YCP THEATERWORKS: CASTING CALL: DOUBT

Culminating YCP TheaterWork’s 55th Season will be John Patrick Shanley’s Pulitzer Prize and Tony winning drama, Doubt, directed by Richard Troiano. Performances will be May 29, 30, June 5 & 6 at 8:00 pm, with Sunday matinees on May 31 & June 7 at 2:00 pm at the Shrub Oak United Methodist Church, 1176 East Main Street, Shrub Oak, NY 10588.

Set in the Bronx in 1964, Doubt tells of Father Brendan Flynn, a reform-minded Catholic priest and teacher who becomes locked in a battle with an imperious, old-school nun named Sister Aloysius Beauvier.

OPEN AUDITIONS: March 10, 11 & 12 at 7:30 PM at the Shrub Oak United Methodist Church, 1176 East Main Street, Shrub Oak, NY 10588. For more information contact director Richard Troiano at 845-596-1920 or email him at gleetroy@optonline.net.

ROLES:
* Sister Aloysius Beauvier: The principal of St Nicholas School. She is an experienced nun and educator. Driven by a high sense of duty but rigid and conservative. Not mean-spirited but is strong minded and tenacious.
* Father Brendan Flynn: Young to middle aged priest. Articulate and personable. He is very charming, outgoing and displays a quick wit and deft touch with people. He believes in an approach to children which is not as strict.
* Sister James: A young impressionable nun. Enthusiastic but inexperienced teacher. She is not sure about the situation she finds herself in and feels out of her element.
* Mrs. Muller: The mother of Donald Muller, an introverted, somewhat effeminate boy, the school’s first black student in the school. Since she and Donald are African-American, Mrs. Muller knows that Donald attending the school is a big chance for them and she is a very practical woman.

FORT HILL PLAYERS: CASTING CALL: PICASSO AT THE LAPIN AGILE

Auditions will be held on Tuesday and Wednesday, February 10 & 11 at 7:00 pm at ROCHAMBEAU SCHOOL, 228 Fisher Ave, White Plains, www.FortHillPlayers.com.
Performance dates: May 8, 9, 15, 16. For information or conflicts call: 914-403-8332
Written by Steve Martin, Directed by David Frisch.

In Steve Martin’s long-running absurdist comedy Albert Einstein and Pablo Picasso, each in their youth – head strong and passionate, meet, by chance, in a bohemian cafe in Paris1904, on the eve of their impact on the world. The conversation ranges from the ridiculous to the sublime as these geniuses, joined by quirky bystanders, discuss the accomplishments and foibles of humanity. Does art really matter? Can science touch the heart? Is beauty truly in the eye of the beholder? Did Einstein and Picasso really only excel in their chosen fields in order to get girls? Sides will be provided. Needed: 7 male and 4 female actors. Character descriptions: www.FortHillPlayers.com Rehearsal dates TBD after casting.

RED MONKEY THEATER GROUP: CASTING CALL: LAUGHTER ON THE 23RD FLOOR

Union & Non-Union – EQUITY SHOWCASE PENDING Laughter on the 23rd Floor by Neil Simon directed by Carin Zakes-Green Open Auditions: Tuesday, February 24th, 7:30pm– 9:30pm Wednesday, February 25th, 7:30pm– 9:30pm Callbacks (if necessary): Thursday, February 26th, 7:30pm-9:30pm Audition, Rehearsal, & Performance Location: Cahill Theater, Founder’s Hall College of Mount Saint Vincent 6301 Riverdale Ave. Riverdale, NY 10471 Performance Dates: April 18, 19, 23, 24, 25, and 26. Rehearsals to begin February 28th and will be held on evenings and some weekends. RMTG presents Neil Simon’s hilarious roman á clef about his time in the writers’ room during the golden age of TV comedy. Open call. Sign-in sheet will be posted. Sides will be provided.

CASTING ALL ROLES: Lucas Brickman – A young comedy writer getting his first big break Max Prince – Larger-than-life, mercurial, charismatic host of a live TV comedy show Kenny Franks – The sophisticated “boy genius” of the writers’ room Val Slotsky – Warm-hearted and witty Russian émigré comedy writer (Russian accent) Brian Doyle – Ebulliant, smart, quick-tempered comedy writer Milt Fields – Friendly, clever, but jaded workhorse comedy writer Carol Wyman – Smart, funny, independently-minded comedy writer Ira Stone – Brilliant, neurotic, abrasive comedy writer Helen – Very attractive secretary in the office of the Max Prince show; has ambitions to write comedy.

HUDSON CHORALE: CASTING CALL: AMERICAN VOICES

American Composers and Poets/Writers. Auditions will be held on Tuesday, February 2 & 9, 2014, by appointment from 6:00-7:30 pm. Audition/Rehearsal location: Pleasantville Presbyterian Church 400 Bedford Rd, Pleasantville, NY. For an appointment or more information call: 914-478-0074; Complete membership information: www.hudsonchorale.org
Next Concert date: May 9, 2015.
Since 2010, Hudson Chorale, Westchester’s largest chorus, has been performing in venues throughout Westchester, bringing the best in choral singing to the Hudson Valley.The chorus now enjoys a region-wide reputation for outstanding programming and superb artistry and the repertoire ranges from the great masterpieces of the past to engaging contemporary compositions.
Concert program: Randall Thompson’s Americana inspired by articles in American Mercury magazine; Four Pastorales by Cecil Effinger, a Coloradan who set his music to the words of Colorado’s most famous poet, Thomas Hornsby Ferril; Song of the Open Road by Normal Dello Joio who captures the spirit of his favourite poet, Walt Whitman; and This Bequest of Wings by Hudson Chorale Music Director Michael Conley, based on the poetry of Emily Dickinson. It will be a star-spangled event exploring the richness and beauty of American culture.

MORE SUGAR MORE THEATRE comments and press releases can be sent before the 15th of the month, to MMLibraryTheatre@hotmail.com with the subject line of “More Sugar.”

March 2015
MORE THEATRE
By Melinda O’Brien & Michael Muldoon

WESTCHESTER BROADWAY THEATRE: CAMELOT
Review by Michael J. Muldoon

After they wowed the world with My Fair Lady, Camelot was the first musical to hit Broadway for famed duo Lerner & Lowe. The eagerly anticipated original Broadway production was a star studded affair. Surprisingly, it was not nominated for Best Musical, that Tony was won by Bye Bye Birdie. However, the production garnered five Tony Nominations; winning four, including Best Actor for Richard Burton. Joining him in the cast were veterans Julie Andrews and Roddy McDowall and, making their Broadway debut, newcomers Robert Goulet and John Cullum.

This winter the Westchester Broadway Theatre features a remarkably talented cast; if slightly less well known. Clark Scott Carmichael was particularly effective as the young uncertain King and ably morphed into the wizened King. Jennifer Hope Wills was glorious as Gunevere, giving good reason for the king, his knight and probably every man in the kingdom to love her. Jeremiah James was powerful as Lancelot and Jordan Wolfe ramped up the excitement in Act II as Mordred.

Directed and Choreographed by Richard Sabellico, he included court dancing, fights, maypole dancing and even walking on stilts. His production was a lusty one, tender and tough at all the right moments. He made the small cast effectively look and sound like many more. Kyle Dixon’s set design was excellent. Stage right steps leading down to the stage and a “Juliet” balcony on stage left flanked the stone arch in stage center. Janell Berte did an outstanding job with the medieval costume design.

Camelot runs from January 29 – September 21. West Side Story follows from April 9-July 5, Godspell from July 9 – August 16, Backwards in High Heels August 20-September 27, Showboat from October 1 – November 29 and December 30 – January 31, 2016 and Tim and Scrooge December 3 – 27.

In addition, WBT is showcasing numerous concerts, comedy nights and special events. Make reservations now. Subscribe to 3 or 4 shows and save money on each ticket as well as enjoying other benefits. Check out the website at www.broadwaytheatre.com for the detailed information or call the Box Office at 914-592-2222.

RHYTHM OF THE DANCE
With a wonderful, gifted young cast of dancers, musicians, 3 Irish tenors and live performances from the entire troupe, it is a breath of fresh air into Irish dance with deep Irish roots and authentic production. Featuring traditional Irish step dancing, songs, instruments and brilliant costumes, this show is a step above the rest!
Monday, March 9:
Matinee at 11:15 am lunch. 1:00 pm show $64.00 plus tax per person
Evening: 6:15 pm dinner. 8:00 pm show $80.00 plus tax per person

STEVE LIPPIA’s Frank Sinatra Tribute
Centennial Sinatra starring Steve Lippia is a celebration of the life and music of the twentieth century’s most remarkable singer of the Great American Songbook. Steve takes us on a musical journey from Sinatra’s earliest crooning days with Harry James and Tommy Dorsey to his historic collaborations with the great arrangers like Billy May, Nelson Riddle and Don Costa, to his work with The Count Basie Orchestra and his epic concert at Madison Square Garden
Tuesday, March 24:
Matinee at 11:15 am lunch. 1:00 pm show $64.00 plus tax per person
Evening: 6:15 pm dinner. 8:00 pm show $80.00 plus tax per person

The BELMONTS & The EMOTIONS
A Night of Doo Wop from the 50’s and 60’s! The Belmonts were friends from the area around Arthur Avenue in the Bronx. They began singing together in the late 50’s and named themselves after Belmont Avenue in the Bronx. Smooth vocals, spot-on-harmonies, and an incredible lineup of hits make this concert a performance you will love! Some of their hits include: I Wonder Why, We Went Away,Come On Little Angel, No One Knows, A Teenager in Love, Where or When and When You Wish Upon a Star. Also Appearing: THE EMOTIONS!
Monday, March 30: Evening: 6:15 pm Dinner, 8:00 pm Show $80.00 plus tax per person

COMEDY NIGHT
A Hilarious Night of Adult Stand-Up with six of the coolest comedians around! Featuring; Matt Baetz, Kevin Brennan, Mike Britt, Warren Holstein, Moody McCarthy and Steve Shaffer.
Tuesday, March 31: Evening: 6:15 pm Dinner, 8:00 pm Show $80.00 plus tax per person

SUNDAY CONCERT SERIES: STACY PHILLIPS & PAUL HOWARD DUET

A FREE Concert,“Stacy Phillips & Paul Howard Duet” at 2:00 pm on Sunday, March 1 at the John C. Hart Memorial Library is at 1130 East Main Street, Shrub Oak, NY 10588. No registration, doors open at 1:45 pm. For more information go to the website or call 914-245-5262, ext. 227. Stacy Phillips and Paul Howard have been elite members of the American acoustic music community for many years. They continue to combine their talents to create an exciting style they call Neo-Urban Traditional Music, a combination of the sensibility of traditional music through the lens of an urban upbringing. The duo performs a wide range of material- Jazz, Caribbean dances, Hawaiian hulas, bluegrass, calypso and East European gypsy music as well as their unique, original compositions. Stacy Phillips and Paul Howard have done several tours of Europe, Australia and the West Coast and have two CDs, one self-titled and the other, “Neo Urban Traditions.”

M&M: ALL I NEED TO KNOW ABOUT LIFE I LEARNED ON THE RADIO

M&M Presents FREE Performances of All I Need to Know About Life I Learned on the Radio,
written & performed by Kacey Morabito-Grean. All I Need to Know About Life I Learned on the Radio – An Hour of Inspiration with Kacey Morabito–Grean. There are a few “rules of radio” that actually apply quite nicely to life: smile, keep moving forward, tell the truth. Then there are the life lessons a radio personality learns along the way. With stories and music, Kacey Morabito-Grean of 100.7 WHUD creates an inspiring and uplifting hour of entertainment. Q&A to follow.

Kacey Morabito Grean has been waking up New York’s Westchester and the Hudson Valley for the past 15 years. As co-host of Mike and Kacey in the Morning on 100.7 WHUD she’s up at 4 am and on the air from 5:30 – 10 am. Along with bringing you the latest news, sports and weather she’s playing music from some of today’s biggest stars. A 50 thousand watt powerhouse station, 100.7 WHUD has been on the air since 1971 and it’s the radio station Kacey grew up with! Radio is also Kacey’s “first real job”. She’s been with the station since 1983. Kacey says there are radio of rules that apply beautifully to life – and there are the life lessons she’d has learned from being part of this crazy business for so long. That is what she will share with you today. Feel free to sing along. Kacey also hosts a holistic lifestyle program The Health & Happiness Show. She is a reiki practitioner and facilitates inspirational programs for women at Shine On Reiki in Cold Spring, NY.www.kaceyontheradio.com

Performance Schedule:
• Sunday, March 1 at 2:00 pm at the The Farmington Libraries, 6 Monteith Drive, Farmington, CT 06032
• Sunday, March 8 at 2:00 pm at the John C. Hart Memorial Library, 1130 East Main Street Shrub Oak, NY 10588
• Saturday, March 21 at 2:00 pm at the Irvington Public Library, 12 S. Astor Street Irvington, NY 10533
• Friday, March 27 at 7:30 pm at the Croton Free Library, 171 Cleveland Drive, Croton-on-Hudson, NY 10520

HOWARD MEYER’S ACTING PROGRAM: FREE INTRODUCTORY CLASS

On Wednesday, March 25, Howard Meyer’s Acting Program, an affiliate of Axial Theatre, a professional theatre company in Pleasantville, NY, is offering a free introductory Basic Acting Technique course for beginning actors of all ages in three classes: for adults (ages 18 up), 7:30 – 10:30 pm; for Young Actors (ages 10-12), 4:00 – 5:00 pm; and for Teens (13-17), 5:15 to 7 pm. Students who decide to enroll in the 12-week program begin regular classes April 1 for adults, April 8 for youths and teens.

Rachel Jones, an Equity actor and a member of Axial’s ensemble company who has performed in over a dozen Axial productions and will be directing the group’s spring show teaches the class for adults. Says Jones, “The start of spring is a great time to try something new. This class gives people a chance to see if acting could be right for them; it’s also ideal for those returning to acting after many years.” She notes too that the experience is generally highly positive, “For some HMActing students, the actors’ journey becomes a form of self-expression and a creative outlet; for others it leads them on a career path. My job is to help people discover the actor within; the rest is up to the individual.”

Basic Acting Technique lays the foundation of the actor’s craft with a range of exercises developed by master teachers Sanford Meisner and Lee Strasberg that help develop the actor’s use of his/her senses and imagination; all are practiced individually and in groups. Monologues and scenes are integrated into the exercises. Basic Technique for Young Actors is taught by Jess Erick, an actor and a director, writer and singer/songwriter who has appeared in numerous Axial productions and on various Westchester and Manhattan stages. Erick’s class looks at all aspects of acting for the stage, with special focus on improvisation, monologues and discovering and using one’s voice. Classes teach students to project with clarity and build confidence, skill and trust.

In Basic Technique for Teenagers, Erick focuses on the techniques and principles of the craft through exercises that cultivate the imagination, the senses, and the expression of voice and body. Students are encouraged to access their own uniqueness and point-of-view in a creative and safe environment.

Students who decide to enroll following the introductory course pay $395 for a 12 week session ($385 for Young Actors). Adults have the option of registering for a six-week session for $245 (the 12-week registration cost is discounted by $95).

Howard Meyer’s Acting Program also offers intermediate, advanced and master classes as well as individual coaching in auditions for school or stage (with a casting director) and workshops in such areas as voice, movement, and acting for TV. Axial Theatre offers professional fall and spring productions of new, never-produced plays by acclaimed writers; contemporary, award-winning works from Broadway and Off-Broadway; and revivals of the great classics of the 19th and 20th century.

To register for the free introductory Basic Acting Technique class, go online to: www.hmacting.org/register or call 914-286-7680.

YCP THEATERWORKS: DOUBT: AUDITIONS

Culminating YCP TheaterWork’s 55th Season will be John Patrick Shanley’s Pulitzer Prize and Tony winning drama, Doubt, directed by Richard Troiano. Open auditions are set for March 9, 11 & 12 at 7:30 pm at the Shrub Oak United Methodist Church, 1176 East Main Street, Shrub Oak, NY 10588. Set in the Bronx in 1964, Doubt tells of Father Flynn, a reform-minded Catholic priest and teacher who becomes locked in a battle with an old-school nun named Sister Aloysius.

ROLES:
• Sister Aloysius Beauvier: The principal of St Nicholas School. She is an experienced nun and educator. Driven by a high sense of duty but rigid + conservative. Not mean-spirited but is strong minded and tenacious.
• Father Brendan Flynn: Young to middle aged priest. Articulate + personable. He is very charming, outgoing and displays a quick wit and deft touch with people. He believes in an approach to children which is not as strict.
• Sister James: A young impressionable nun. Enthusiastic but inexperienced teacher. She is not sure about the situation she finds herself in and feels out of her element.
• Mrs. Muller: The mother of Donald Muller, an introverted, somewhat effeminate boy, the school’s first black student in the school. Mrs. Muller knows that Donald attending the school is a big chance for them and she is a very practical woman.

Performances are scheduled for May 29, 30, June 5 & 6 at 8:00 pm, with Sunday matinees on May 31 & June 7 at 2:00 pm at the Shrub Oak United Methodist Church. For more information contact director Richard Troiano at 845-596-1920 or email Richard Troiano at gleetroy@optonline.net. www.YCPTW.org.

THEATERWORKS NEW MILFORD: THE LYONS

TheatreWorks New Milford will be opening its 2015 Main Stage Season with Nicky Silver’s scathing comedy-drama, The Lyons. The Lyons runs through March 14. Curtain time is 8:00 pm, Fridays & Saturdays, with a 2:00 pm Sunday matinee on March 8. Tickets for all shows are $23 for reserved seating. Students and Military personnel with ID will be admitted for $18. Reservations can be made online at THEATREWORKS.US or by calling the box office at 860-350-6863.

The story begins as Ben Lyons lays dying in a hospital room. Rita, his wife of forty years, flips through decorating magazines, planning a living room makeover. It’s clear this couple has been at war for most of their lives. When they’re joined by their children, Lisa and Curtis, the pent-up acrimony increases and all efforts at a sentimental goodbye are soon abandoned. After Curtis’s desperate attempt to make a new connection ends disastrously, each of THE LYONS take their first tentative steps toward making a new human connection in this intense and comedic tale.

The production features some of the finest actors in the region: Elizabeth Young, Courtney Lauria, Jody Bayer, William Hughes, Joseph Russo, and James Hipp. The Lyons is under the direction of Matt Austin.

TheatreWorks is an award-winning, non-Equity theatre company, named Best Community Theater in Connecticut by Connecticut Magazine. TheatreWorks is located on 5 Brookside Avenue , just off Route 202 (next to the CVS), in New Milford , CT.

TOWN PLAYERS OF NEWTOWN: FIFTH OF JULY: AUDITIONS

Town Players of Newtown will hold auditions for Fifth of July, by Lanford Wilson on Monday & Tuesday, March 9 & 10, from 7-9 pm. Seeking four men and four women. Auditions will take place at Town Players’ Little Theatre, located at 18 Orchard Hill Rd, just off Rte 25 (a mile north of the Sand Hill Plaza), in Newtown, CT. For more information on characters and directions, visit WWW.NEWTOWNPLAYERS.ORG or email info@newtownplayers.org.

Rehearsals begin week of the week of March 16 with performances running from April 24 – May 16 on Friday & Saturday evenings with two Sunday matinees. In this bittersweet family drama, disabled Vietnam vet Ken Talley struggles to find meaning in life as he considers selling the family farmhouse. Meanwhile, family and friends descend upon the farm for a vacation and end up trying to outbid each other for the property. Directed by Maureen Trotto.

HAND-TO-MOUTH PLAYERS: CALL FOR SCRIPTS

The Hand-to-Mouth Players are now accepting One-Act scripts for their 24th Annual Award Winning Playwright/Director’s Workshop. The submission deadline is April 30. Manuscripts accepted for:
• One-Act plays
• No more than 25 minutes in length
• Minimal staging and sets
• Casts of 5 or less preferred
• Play must be previously unpublished*
* for details contact Tom at Tom.Campbell@htmplayers.com

Submission Guidelines:
• Submit manuscript by e-mail or snail-mail, to addresses below.
• $20 submission fee for each e-mailed play, $15 submission fee for each snail-mailed play
• Send check payable to HTM Players, to the P.O. Box shown below. Include Author and Title on the check. Plays will NOT be considered until the check is received.
• Include a title page with the following information: Name, Address, Phone number, E-mail Address, Approx. length of play (in minutes). Please include title and page number on every page.
• DO NOT put author’s name on any page other than title page. The plays will be read anonymously.
• Manuscripts will NOT be returned and critiques will not be given on those plays not chosen for the workshop. No royalties. Each playwright will receive free admission to the performances.
• Selected plays will be performed in August, 2015 in Montrose, NY. Up to 6 plays will be performed.

Adjudication:
A representative from the Theatre Association of New York State (TANYS) will adjudicate the last performance. Feedback will be given to the playwrights, directors, actors, and the individual productions. Audience members will also participate with anonymous comment sheets. One play may be selected to perform at the TANYS Festival in November, 2015. www.tanys.org

E-mail Manuscript to:
PDW2015@htmplayers.com
Mail manuscript/check to:
HTM Playwright / Director’s Workshop
P.O. Box 163
Montrose, NY 10548

For Questions contact: Gary Simon, Artistic Liaison (914) 734-8486 E-mail: Gary.Simon@htmplayers.com TEXT: 914-980-0814

MORE SUGAR MORE THEATRE comments and press releases can be sent before the 15th of the month, to MMLibraryTheatre@hotmail.com with the subject line of “More Sugar.”

April 2015
MORE THEATRE
By Melinda O’Brien & Michael Muldoon

HUDSON STAGE: OUTSIDE MULLINGAR

Outside Mullingar, by John Patrick Shanley will preview Friday, April 17 and open Saturday, April 18th and runs weekends only through Saturday, May 2. Curtain times are: evenings at 8:00 pm, matinees on Sundays at 3:00 pm (Q&A following the April 19th performance) at Whippoorwill Hall Theatre at the North Castle Library, Kent Place, Armonk, NY 10504. Reserved seating – $35.00 general admission/ $30.00 seniors/students. Tickets are available through Brown Paper Tickets: 800-838-3006 (Note: assigned seating). For group rates only: call (914) 271-2811. Got to www.HudsonStage.com for more information or to purchase tickets.

This is the wistful story of Anthony and Rosemary – two introverted misfits straddling 40. Anthony has spent his entire life on a cattle farm in rural Ireland, a state of affairs that suits him well. Rosemary lives right next door, determined to have him and watching the years slip away. With Anthony’s father threatening to disinherit him and a land feud simmering between their two families, Rosemary has every reason to fear romantic catastrophe.

HSC is thrilled to have returning favorites Susannah Schulman as Rosemary (HSC’s Rabbit Hole and most recently on Broadway in the acclaimed All the Way and Susan Pellegrino as Aiofe, her mother (HSC’s 39 Postcards and After All). They will be joined by Sean Hayden as Anthony (Lincoln Center national tour of The Light in the Piazza as well as his own one-man show Confidentially, Cole and Davis Hall as his father Tony (Seen recently on TV’s Madame Secretary and on Broadway in Butley). Directed by Dan Foster, and produced by Denise Bessette, Dan Foster and Olivia Sklar. Design team: David Arsenault, set, Andrew Gmoser, lights, Charlotte Palmer Lane, costumes, William Neal, sound and Deb Gaouette props. Stephanie Marie O’Brien is the Production Stage Manager and Jessie Jardon is the Assistant Stage Manager.

WESTCHESTER BROADWAY THEATRE: WEST SIDE STORY

West Side Story will be on the boards at Westchester Broadway Theatre from April 9 – July 5. A modern version of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet set on the mean streets of New York during the turbulent fifties. Caught between two warring street gangs, the Jets and the Sharks, Tony and Maria attempt to create a life together. This brilliant collaboration by Broadway greats Leonard Bernstein and Stephen Sondheim combines music, lyrics and dance into a timeless tribute to young love.

Next up will be Godspell from July 9 – August 16, Backwards in High Heels August 20-September 27, Showboat from October 1 – November 29 and December 30 – January 31, 2016 and Tim and Scrooge December 3 – 27.

WESTCHESTER BROADWAY THEATRE: SPECIAL EVENTS

In addition, WBT is showcasing numerous concerts, comedy nights and special events. Make reservations now. Subscribe to 3 or 4 shows and save money on each ticket as well as enjoying other benefits. Check out the website at www.broadwaytheatre.com for the detailed information or call the Box Office at 914-592-2222.

LIVE FROM NASHVILLE: Monday, April 13, 2015
Featuring a troupe of singers, dancers, a bona fide band of Nashville musicians, dazzling staging and rhinestone-bedecked costumes, all designed to celebrate a century of celebrities and treasured songs. This incredible production brings phenomenal fiddling, fancy footwork and top-flight vocals in a trip through some of country’s greatest music—songs brought to life by Patsy Cline, Hank Williams, Johnny Cash, Dolly Parton to the country rockers like The Eagles, Brooks & Dunn and Garth Brooks, and including today’s hits from stars like Carrie Underwood Brad Paisley, Taylor Swift and Lady Antebellum.
MATINEE: 11:15 am. Lunch 1:00 Pm Show
$64.00 plus tax per person
EVENING: 6:15 pm. Dinner 8:00 Pm Show
$84.00 plus tax per person.

THE DUPREES: Monday, April 20, 2015
Enjoy The Duprees’ biggest chart hits and most memorable songs such as ‘You Belong To Me’, ‘Take Me As I Am’, ‘My Own True Love’ & ‘Please Let Her Know’. With an opening comedian!
Time: 6:15 pm Dinner, 8:00 pm Show
$84.00 plus tax per person

THE BRITISH INVASION TRIBUTE: Tuesday, April 21, 2015
Three shows in one! First, you may hear classic songs by iconic British groups such as The Zombies, The Moody Blues, Dave Clark Five andHerman’s Hermits and more. The American musical “response” follows, with memorable hits by celebrated artists such as The Monkees, The Turtles, The Mamas & The Papas, and Tommy James & The Shondells, to name just a few. This retrospective concludes with an extraordinary finale paying tribute to the four lads from Liverpool who started it all, The Beatles! Experience this amazing nostalgic journey through the 1960s, as the band pays homage to the music that helped shape an entire generation!
Time: 6:15 pm Dinner, 8:00 pm Show
$84.00 plus tax per person

HUNKS The Show: Tuesday, April 28, 2015
This internationally acclaimed Las Vegas all male revue show has become the Hottest ticket on tour in the nation. HUNKS The Show features exciting choreographed production numbers, elaborate costume changes, acrobatics, comedy and vocal performances which sets HUNKS The Show apart from any other show of its type. Whether it is a Man in Uniform or a Knight in Shining Armor HUNKS The Show has something that will appeal to every woman’s imagination! The Show has performed to sold out crowds around the world, with millions of enthusiastic ladies lining up to see these handsome HUNKS live on stage!
EVENING: 6:15 pm dinner. 8:00 pm show
$84.00 plus tax per person for Dinner & Show

SUNDAY CONCERT SERIES: RHYTHMS OF THE WORLD

A FREE Concert, Rhythms of the World at 2:00 pm on Sunday, April12 at the John C. Hart Memorial Library is at 1130 East Main Street, Shrub Oak, NY 10588. No registration, doors open at 1:45 pm. For more information go to the website www.yorktownlibraty.org or call 914-245-5262, ext. 227. Rhythms of the World is performed by the exotic guitar and mandolin duo of Judy Handler and Mark Levesque with their Rhythms of the World Program includes their own special arrangements of music from many countries including Spain, Italy, Ireland, Hungary, Russia, Brazil, Venezuela, Paraguay, Israel, Taiwan and more! No registration, doors open at 1:45 pm.

M&M: SUMMER THEATRE AT LYNDHURST ANNOUNCED

M&M Performing Arts Company Inc. will present two summer shows, Sherlock Holmes: The Adventure of the Dancing Men inside Lyndhurst Mansion this June and The Understudy in the Carriage House in July.

Sherlock Holmes: The Adventure of the Dancing Men will be at Lyndhurst Mansion this June. Written by Tal Aviezer with direction by Holland Renton, the great detective Sherlock Holmes and Doctor Watson are on the case at Ridling Thorpe Manor (the manor is played by historic Lyndhurst Mansion). The classic mystery is given a special period flavor as it takes place throughout the beautiful Lyndhurst mansion. Performances are June 19 through 28, Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays and Wednesdays at 7:00 pm. Tickets are $35.00 for adults and $30.00 for seniors and children (16 and under) and are available at Lyndhurst.org or by calling 888-71-TICKETS. Group sales available at 914-303-6840.

Sherlock Holmes (Tal Aviezer) and Doctor Watson (Joe Laureiro) are called upon to solve an odd case. Mr. Hilton Cubitt (Michael Muldoon) is baffled when childish drawings of little dancing men mysteriously appear in and around his beautiful country estate in Darbyshire, terrifying his young American wife. Are the strange drawings a bizarre prank, or a warning of deadly danger? Join us for an original dramatic adaptation of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s classic story as we explore Lyndhurst mansion, a true Gothic revival country house in the heart of the Hudson Valley, for the clues to unravel one of Holmes’ most thrilling adventures.

The Understudy, a comedy by Theresa Rebeck will come to the Lyndhurst Carriage House this July. Opening night is Friday, July 10 and run Saturdays, Sundays and Wednesdays July 11 through 26, all at 7:00 pm. Tickets are $35.00 for adults and $30.00 for seniors and children (16 and under) and will be available at Lyndhurst.org or by calling 888-71-TICKETS. Group sales available at 914-303-6840.

In this bitingly witty and entertaining comedy, the lights of Broadway cast an affectionate glow on one of the most notorious roles in the theater: the understudy. The play opens with Franz Kafka’s undiscovered masterpiece making its Broadway premiere. Roxanne, the stage manager, has the daunting task of running the understudy rehearsal. Enter Harry, a journeyman actor who just happens to be Roxanne’s ex-fiancé. And then there’s Jake, a Hollywood action star craving a little legitimacy. Throw in a stoned light board operator and a bunch of producers threatening to close down the show and you have one very funny comedy.

Veteran director Larry Schneider brings together a sterling cast including Michael Muldoon, Carly Jayne Lillo, and Peter Lillo to deliver this wonderful comedy to the wonderful Lyndhurst Carriage House Theatre.

Lyndhurst, a site of the National Trust for Historic Preservation, is a Gothic Revival masterpiece on the banks for the Hudson River in Tarrytown, NY at 635 South Broadway (Route 9). Designed by Alexander Jackson Davis in 1838 as a country cottage for Brigadier General William Paulding, who was twice mayor of New York City, it was expanded by the same architect between 1865 and 1867 for industrialist George Merritt. The now grand mansion was purchased in 1880 by railroad magnate Jay Gould, and members of his family continued to use it as their summer home until 1961. For more information about Lyndhurst, visit Lyndhurst.org.

WHITE PLAINS PERFORMING ARTS CENTER: CARRIE THE MUSICAL

Carrie the Musical is a production of the White Plains Performing Arts Center Conservatory Theatre with actors between the ages of 13-18. Carrie the Musical performs on Friday, April 24 and Saturday, April 25 at 8pm and Sunday, April 26 at 2pm at the White Plains Performing Arts Center located on the third level of City Center off Mamaroneck Avenue in downtown White Plains. Tickets are $20 and $25. Carrie the Musical contains strong language and mature subject matter. Parental discretion is advised. For tickets: visit the theatre box office Monday-Friday (11am-6pm), purchase the tickets online at www.wppac.com or call 914-328-1600. For Group Sales, please contact barbara@wppac.com.

Based on the novel by Stephen King, Carrie the Musical is an electrifying pop-rock musical about a bullied teenager with telekinetic powers who takes revenge on prom night with music by Academy Award-winning composer Michael Gore; lyrics by Academy Award-winning lyricist Dean Pitchford and a book by “Carrie” film screenwriter Lawrence D. Cohen. Carrie White is a misfit. At school, she’s an outcast who’s bullied by the popular crowd, and virtually invisible to everyone else. At home, she’s at the mercy of her loving but cruelly over-protective mother. But Carrie’s just discovered she’s got a special power, and if pushed too far, she’s not afraid to use it.

The cast of Carrie the Musical features the talents of Alex Arlotta, Penny Deen, Mary DelVecchio, Jenna Goldberg, Rose Hornyak, Temia Innamorato, Ties Jansen, Maeve Elyse Kraiger, David C. Littlefield, Elana Mariani, Amanda Montgomery, Casey O’Donnell, Gabrielle Paige, Zack Tashoff, Max Tempkin, Rachel Weisbart and Ava Bradlow as Carrie. The production is directed by Jonathan Johnson, music direction by Paul Loman and choreography by Lexie Fennell Frare with scenic design by Madeleine Maloy, lighting design by Kyle Stormes and costume design by Kiah Vidyarthi.

YORKTOWN STAGE: GYPSY

Gypsy is a 1959 musical with music by Jule Styne, lyrics by Stephen Sondheim, and a book by Arthur Laurents will be on Yorktown Stage April 24-26. Gypsy is loosely based on the 1957 memoirs of Gypsy Rose Lee, the famous striptease artist, and focuses on her mother, Rose, whose name has become synonymous with “the ultimate show business mother.” It follows the dreams and efforts of Rose to raise two daughters to perform onstage and casts an affectionate eye on the hardships of show business life. The character of Louise is based on Lee, and the character of June is based on Lee’s sister, the actress June Havoc. Gypsy runs April 24-26, only one weekend, with Friday and Saturday evening performances at 7:30 pm, a Saturday matinee performance at 1:00 pm and a Sunday matinee performance at 2:00 pm. Yorktown Stage is located in the Yorktown Community Cultural Center, at 1974 Commerce Street (off Veterans Road) in Yorktown Heights, NY. Tickets are $26; seniors (63+) and students (12-22) $21; children (under 11) $19. Group discounts are available. For tickets visit our website www.yorktownstage.org and select your own seats online. You may also call the box office 962-0606.

Starring in the production is Tony Nominee Sally Mayes. On Broadway, Sally is perhaps best known for her performance in the Roundabout Theatre revival of She Loves Me for which she won Tony, Drama Desk and Outer Critics Circle nominations. Off-Broadway, Sally appeared in Closer Than Ever and received another Outer Critics Circle nomination. The New York Times called her “a singer of incandescent ebullience, deliciously saucy.” People Magazine described her as “the kind of rich theatrical voice that elevates a show tune.” And Time Magazine says, “Sally Mayes renders songs as richly nuanced as one-act plays”.

As always, NYC and local professionals will support Ms. Mayes. Sarah Beth White and Joel Chambers, both NYC professionals, will play Dainty June and Tulsa, respectively. And the comical trio of strippers, Tessie, Mazeppa and Electra will be played by Donna Fox, Irene Howard and Deb Mengert. The talented Yorktown Stage creative team returns: August Abatecola as director, Carrie Silvernail as choreographer, Barry Liebman as producer and Ricky Romano as musical director. “We are so thankful to present Sally Mayes to our patrons,” said Producer Liebman. “She lives locally and is happy to lend her support for the success of regional and community theatre.” Director Abatecola adds, “It is my distinct pleasure to direct Sally as she heads a production with so many gifted and talented actors.” “As in the past, we have cast the best of Westchester’s actors to complement the prominent NYC professionals.

YCP THEATERWORKS: DOUBT

Culminating YCP TheaterWork’s 55th Season will be John Patrick Shanley’s Pulitzer Prize and Tony winning drama, Doubt, directed by Richard Troiano. Performances are set for May 29 – June 7, Fridays and Saturdays at 8:00 pm and Sundays at 2:00 pm at the Shrub Oak United Methodist Church, Parish Hall, 1176 East Main Street, Shrub Oak, NY 10588. Set in the Bronx in 1964, Doubt tells of Father Flynn, a reform-minded Catholic priest and teacher who becomes locked in a battle with an old-school nun named Sister Aloysius. For more information go to www.YCPTW.org.

SHERMAN PLAYHOUSE: 1984

The Sherman Playhouse proudly kicks off its 2015 theatrical season on April 10 with George Orwell’s dystopian classic, 1984, adapted for the stage by Robert Owens, Wilton E. Hall, Jr., and William A. Miles, Jr. 1984 runs April 10 through May 3. Directed by Kevin Sosbe, curtain time is 8:00 p.m. Fridays & Saturdays, with 2:00 p.m. Sunday matinees on April 19 and May 3. Tickets for all shows are $22 for adults and $12 for children 12 and under. On Thursday, April 9, all patrons are invited to attend a “Half-Price Preview Night” at 8:00 p.m. where all tickets are only $11. Students may see any performance for only $11 if they pay in cash only at the door and carry a valid student ID. Students may not make reservations in advance for a performance. Reservations can be made online at www.shermanplayers.org or by calling the box office at (860) 354-3622. The Sherman Playhouse is a local, non-Equity theatre company located at 5 Route 39 North (next to the firehouse) in Sherman, Conn.

The production features some of the area’s most outstanding actors: Denise James, Viv Berger, Maya Daley, Carly Phypers, Bruce Tredwell, Chris Marker, Noel Desiato, Steven Stott, Alex Echevarria, Mary-Genevieve Moisan, Beth Bonnabeau, and Vicki Sosbe.

It’s April 1984, the clocks have struck 13, and comrade 6079, Winston Smith, thinks a thought, starts a diary, and falls in love in a world ruled by three totalitarian powers. The state, given the moniker of “Big Brother,” watches every move Smith makes. At any moment, Big Brother can open the mysterious door to Room 101, and force Smith to confront a terrifying future even more twisted than the present in which he now lives in 1984.

THE SMALL TOWN THEATRE COMPANY: ORPHANS

The Small Town Theatre Company will present a staged play reading directed by Sam Morell
On April 17, 18 at 8:00 pm at the Hergenhan Center, Armonk, NY and April 23, 25 at 8:00 pm at the Katonah Village Library, Katonah, NY. $15 general admission Reservations: www.SmallTownTheatre.com

ORPHANS by Lyle Kessler is a play about two brothers living in a decrepit North Philadelphia row house: Phillip, sensitive, reclusive, never venturing out of his home, and Treat, the elder,
who supports his damaged younger sibling by petty thievery and makes the house a virtual
prison for the seemingly simple-minded Phillip. One night Treat kidnaps a rich older man,
Harold, who turns out to have his own motives and becomes the father figure the boys have
always yearned for. With Tom Coppola, Todd Santa Maria and Sam Morell.

HAND-TO-MOUTH PLAYERS: CALL FOR SCRIPTS

The Hand-to-Mouth Players are now accepting One-Act scripts for their 24th Annual Award Winning Playwright/Director’s Workshop. The submission deadline is April 30. Manuscripts accepted for:
• One-Act plays
• No more than 25 minutes in length
• Minimal staging and sets
• Casts of 5 or less preferred
• Play must be previously unpublished*
* for details contact Tom at Tom.Campbell@htmplayers.com

Submission Guidelines:
• Submit manuscript by e-mail or snail-mail, to addresses below.
• $20 submission fee for each e-mailed play, $15 submission fee for each snail-mailed play
• Send check payable to HTM Players, to the P.O. Box shown below. Include Author and Title on the check. Plays will NOT be considered until the check is received.
• Include a title page with the following information: Name, Address, Phone number, E-mail Address, Approx. length of play (in minutes). Please include title and page number on every page.
• DO NOT put author’s name on any page other than title page. The plays will be read anonymously.
• Manuscripts will NOT be returned and critiques will not be given on those plays not chosen for the workshop. No royalties. Each playwright will receive free admission to the performances.
• Selected plays will be performed in August, 2015 in Montrose, NY. Up to 6 plays will be performed.

Adjudication:
A representative from the Theatre Association of New York State (TANYS) will adjudicate the last performance. Feedback will be given to the playwrights, directors, actors, and the individual productions. Audience members will also participate with anonymous comment sheets. One play may be selected to perform at the TANYS Festival in November, 2015. www.tanys.org

E-mail Manuscript to:
PDW2015@htmplayers.com
Mail manuscript/check to:
HTM Playwright / Director’s Workshop
P.O. Box 163
Montrose, NY 10548

For Questions contact: Gary Simon, Artistic Liaison (914) 734-8486 E-mail: Gary.Simon@htmplayers.com TEXT: 914-980-0814

MORE SUGAR MORE THEATRE comments and press releases can be sent before the 15th of the month, to MMLibraryTheatre@hotmail.com with the subject line of “More Sugar.”

May 2015
MORE THEATRE
By Melinda O’Brien & Michael Muldoon

WESTCHESTER BROADWAY THEATRE: WEST SIDE STORY
Review by Michael Muldoon

“Vibrant, colorful, incredible, lively and wonderful.” These were just some of the adjectives I heard from audience members at the opening night of the Westchester Broadway Theatre’s production of West Side Story. Director and choreographer Barry McNabb brings back all the elements that made the 1957 Broadway musical such a remarkable force: a mélange of music, plot and dance; heavily spiced with adolescent lust, anger and anxiety. Jerome Robbins sensational choreography, the exquisite music of Leonard Bernstein and Stephen Sondheim’s clever lyrics has earned the play numerous Tony nominations and awards and several major revivals both here and in London as well as countless regional and educational theaters. The 1961 film starring Natalie Wood as Maria and Rita Moreno as Anita was also hugely popular and won ten Academy Awards.

At WBT, this tough New York City streetscape is brimming with talent. First, Brandon Contreras as Bernardo, the head of the Sharks and Adam Soniak as Riff as the head of the Jets. They lead their respective gangs, gracefully dancing, menacing each other and singing to the rafters. A crowd of finger-snapping, balletic, tough guys. Two lovers, a la Romeo and Juliette, emerge from the rival forces. Carly Evans has a beautiful soprano and grounds the character of Maria as the mature, moral voice of her generation. Zach Trimmer, with his soaring tenor, is a marvelous Tony; recklessly in love. Ed Romanoff stands out as Lt. Schrank, cranky and boorish and is virtually unrecognizable as Glad Hand, swishingly vacuous. The entire cast is top-notch.

I’m running out of adjectives here. WBT does virtually all the musicals. The great ones? Well, that’s where this theater really shines. West Side Story is arguably one of the best musicals in the American canon. WBT is at its best doing the best. This is one to see.

West Side Story runs from April 9-July 5. Next up will be Godspell from July 9 – August 16, Backwards in High Heels August 20-September 27, Showboat from October 1 – November 29 and December 30 – January 31, 2016 and Tim and Scrooge December 3 – 27.

WESTCHESTER BROADWAY THEATRE: SPECIAL EVENTS

In addition, WBT is showcasing numerous concerts, comedy nights and special events. Make reservations now. Subscribe to 3 or 4 shows and save money on each ticket as well as enjoying other benefits. Check out the website at www.broadwaytheatre.com for the detailed information or call the Box Office at 914-592-2222.

Tribute To Johnny Maestro – Featuring The Brooklyn Bridge Band
The Brooklyn Bridge, was formed in 1968 by Johnny Maestro. One of the best rock n roll vocal groups of the 1960s & 1970s. All the million selling hit songs including; “The Worst That Could Happen”, “16 Candles”, “Heaven Knows”, “Your Husband/My Wife”, “Blessed Is The Rain”, “Welcome Me Love”, “Free As The Wind”, “Unchained Melody”, “My Prayer”, “Step By Step”, “The Angels Listed In”, “Trouble In Paradise”, “My Juanita”, “Runaround Sue & “The Wanderer”. The Brooklyn Bridge are totally amazing! One night only, Tuesday, May 5 at 6:15 pm dinner with a 8:00 pm show. $84.00 plus tax per person.

Larry Chance And The Earls – Larry Cocco & The Chimes
Larry Chance & the Earls represent the music that helped define Rock ‘N’ Roll, the original doo wop era that put the street corner- society onto the national charts. Larry and company have placed many songs on the charts, including: “Life Is But a Dream,” “Never, I Believe,” and of course the classic “Remember Then.” They’ve recorded many other classics including: “Looking For My Baby,” “Eyes, Kissin’” and “Cry, Cry, Cry.” The Chimes , noted for their crisp harmonies, was formed in Brooklyn under the direction of lead singer Lenny Cocco in the mid-1950s. Their first single was a version of Tommy Dorsey’s “Once in a While”. The follow-up single was “I’m In The Mood For Love”, a song from the 1930s. In 1962, they began recording as Lenny & the Chimes. In 1964, they released the single, “Two Times”. Their recordings of “Once In A While” and “I’m In The Mood For Love” graced the soundtracks of films like American Graffiti and remain high in the lists of all-time greatest hits. One night only on Tuesday, May 19 at 6:15 pm dinner with an 8:00 pm Show. $84.00 plus tax per person.

SUNDAY CONCERT SERIES: HORN & HARP

A FREE Concert, Horn & Harp at 2:00 pm on Sunday, May 3 at the John C. Hart Memorial Library is at 1130 East Main Street, Shrub Oak, NY 10588. No registration, doors open at 1:45 pm. For more information go to the website www.yorktownlibraty.org or call 914-245-5262, ext. 227. Peter and Alyssa Reit present horn and harp music from Renaissance masters to 20th century classics, including works by J.S. Bach, Edvard Grieg, Maurice Ravel, and Heitor Villa-lobos. Peter is first horn in the Westchester Philharmonic and Greenwich Symphony,and he performed and toured with the Metropolitan Opera Orchestra for five years. He has been member of the Phantom of the Opera Orchestra since the opening of the show. Alyssa’s work has ranged from playing with such orchestras the Metropolitan Opera Orchestra and the Pittsburgh Symphony, performing under the auspices of Lincoln Center Children’s Programs, touring Europe with Martha Clarke and the U.S. with the world famous vocal group, Anonymous 4, to new music concerts at such venues as The Kitchen and Roulette. She was artistic director, and resident composer for the arts troupe Singing Harp, a company which presented fairy tales, myths, and classic stories in dramatic and musical forms.

M&M PERFORMING ARTS COMPANY: SHERLOCK HOLMES IN THE MANSION AT LYNDHURST IN JUNE

The great detective Sherlock Holmes and Doctor Watson are on the case at Ridling Thorpe Manor (the manor is played by historic Lyndhurst Mansion). The classic mystery is given a special period flavor as it takes place throughout the beautiful Lyndhurst mansion. Sherlock Holmes: The Adventure of the Dancing Men is by Tal Aviezer and directed by Holland Renton.
Performances are June 19 through 28, Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays and Wednesdays at 7:00 pm. Tickets are $35.00 for adults and $30.00 for seniors and children (16 and under) and are available at www.Lyndhurst.org. Group sales and information available at 914-631-4481.

Sherlock Holmes (Tal Aviezer) and Doctor Watson (Joe Laureiro) are called upon to solve an odd case. Mr. Hilton Cubitt (Michael Muldoon) is baffled when childish drawings of little dancing men mysteriously appear in and around his beautiful country estate in Darbyshire, terrifying his young American wife (Zoey Rutherford). Are the strange drawings a bizarre prank, or a warning of deadly danger? Join us for an original dramatic adaptation of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s classic story as we explore Lyndhurst mansion, a true Gothic revival country house in the heart of the Hudson Valley, for the clues to unravel one of Holmes’ most thrilling adventures.

Lyndhurst, a site of the National Trust for Historic Preservation, is a Gothic Revival masterpiece on the banks for the Hudson River in Tarrytown, NY at 635 South Broadway (Route 9). Designed by Alexander Jackson Davis in 1838 as a country cottage for Brigadier General William Paulding, who was twice mayor of New York City, it was expanded by the same architect between 1865 and 1867 for industrialist George Merritt. The now grand mansion was purchased in 1880 by railroad magnate Jay Gould, and members of his family continued to use it as their summer home until 1961. For more information about Lyndhurst, visit www.Lyndhurst.org.

HUDSON VALLEY SHAKESPEARE FESTIVAL: SUMMER SEASON 2015

The Hudson Valley Shakespeare Festival presents The Winter’s Tale, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, The Arabian Nights, An Iliad, and The Tempest from June 9 through September 1. The Winter’s Tale, directed by Artistic Director Davis McCallum, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, directed by Eric Tucker, The Arabian Nights, directed by Lileana Blain-Cruz, An Iliad, directed by Gaye Taylor Upchurch, and presents the HVSF Conservatory production of The Tempest directed by Jim Calder.

On the grounds of Boscobel House and Gardens, 1601 Route 9D, Garrison, New York (Free parking) with 5:30 pm grounds are open for picnicking and curtain times are 7:30 pm for all performances. Tickets are $28-$84, on-line sales available now at www.hvshakespeare.org. The Box office opens May 19 (845) 265-9575.

Celebrating their 29th season, Hudson Valley Shakespeare Festival (HVSF) is the only resident Shakespeare company in the Hudson Valley region. HVSF’s productions and education programs reach 75,000 people of all ages each year, and its performances are consistently acclaimed for their spontaneous, joyful, irreverent, and freewheeling playing style. HVSF makes its home under a specially designed, open-air theater tent perched high on the banks of the Hudson River on the grounds of historic Boscobel House and Gardens in Garrison, New York. Using the dramatic views of the Hudson Highlands as near-perfect stage scenery, HVSF presents unparalleled productions in a perfect marriage of theater and nature.

YCP THEATERWORKS: DOUBT, A PARABLE

YCP TheaterWorks will present John Patrick Shanley’s provocative play, Doubt, A Parable, winner of the 2005 Pulitzer Prize and Tony Awards. Set in the Bronx in 1964, Doubt tells of Father Brendan Flynn (Ed Fonzo), a reform-minded Catholic priest and teacher who becomes
locked in a battle with an imperious, old-school nun and Principal named Sister Aloysius Beauvier (Kate Gleeson). Sister James (Ariana Fox ), a young impressionable nun finds herself in the middle of this battle, as does Mrs Muller (Kim E. Chandler), the mother of a young
boy attending St Nicholas Catholic School. Doubt is directed by Richard Troiano

YCP TheaterWorks will present Doubt at the Shrub Oak United Methodist Church (Parish Hall) 1176 East Main Street, Shrub Oak, NY 10588. The Parish Hall is the white one-story building behind the stone church. Performances will be on Friday and Saturday Nights at 8:00 pm with Sunday matines at 2:00 pm on May 31 & June 7. Tickets are available online www.ycptw.org or call 1-800-838-3006 for $18 for Adults and $16 for students and seniors. Tickets will
be available at the door for $20 for Adults and $18 for students and seniors. For Group sales or directions, please call 914-572-8395.

WESTCHESTER COLLABORATIVE THEATER: ROSABELLE, BELIEVE

Friday, May 22 at 8:00 pm and Saturday, May 23 at 2:00 pm will be WCT’s first reading of 2015, will be Rosabelle, Believe, a full-length play by Joseph Lauinger. The delightful and provocative meditation on cultural ethos, sexual gamesmanship and the afterlife, revolves around the decades-long, unlikely relationship forged between Harry Houdini and Sir Arthur Conan Doyle and the cross-currents that affected the women in their lives. Lauinger is a Professor of Dramatic Literature at Sarah Lawrence College, with a master’s from Oxford and a PhD from Princeton. He has received a grant from the National Endowment for the Humanities and is a member of the Dramatists Guild.

Director: Alan Lutwin, executive director of WCT. Featuring: Deacon Hoy (Houdini); Michelle Concha (his wife, Rosabelle); Ward Riley (Doyle); Sharon Rowe (Doyle’s wife, Lady Jean); Erik Langner and Jim Brownold. Tickets: $10. Budarz Theater in the Ossining Public Library, 53 Croton Ave, Ossining, NY. Saturday’s reading will be followed by a talk-back with the playwright, director and cast. www.brownpapertickets.com/event/1337292.

AXIAL THEATRE: DEAD MAN’S CELL PHONE

Sarah Ruhl’s Dead Man’s Cell Phone, is a bright, satirical comedy that received the 2007 Helen Hayes Award for Outstanding New Play. Ruhl is a MacArthur “Genius” Grant recipient and Pulitzer Prize finalist. Axial Theatre will have Dead Man’s Cell Phone on stage from May 1 through May 17. Stage manager: Jill Woodward. Featuring: Siobhan McKinley; Lori Franzese; Michael Boyle Jr.; Nancy Intrator; Gail Greenstein; Kristen Odell; Susan Ward; and Duane Rutter. Tickets: $25; $20 students and seniors; $40 opening night, Saturday, May 2 – includes wine, hors d’oeuvres and talk back with actor and director following the show. On the campus of St. John’s Episcopal Church, 8 Sunnyside Ave., Pleasantville, New York. 1-800-838-3006 or www.brownpapertickets.com/event/1396632.

THEATREWORKS NEW MILFORD: SOUVENIR

On Friday, May 1, TheatreWorks New Milford will debut its production of Souvenir, a heartwarming musical comedy, by Stephen Temperley. The curtain rises at 8:00 pm on a four-week run. For more than 50 years the name Florence Foster Jenkins was guaranteed to produce explosions of derisive laughter for good reason. This wealthy society eccentric mistakenly believed she was a great soprano when she was, in fact, incapable of producing two consecutive notes in tune. Still, her annual recitals in the ballroom of the Ritz Carlton hotel brought her extraordinary fame. As news of her terrible singing spread, so did her celebrity. Souvenir, by turn hilarious and poignant, tells her story through the eyes of her friend and accompanist, Cosme McMoon. Audiences will be filled with laughter as well as a heartfelt appreciation for this musical “odd couple” for the ages.

The show’s crew includes director Sonnie Osborne, set and lighting designers Richard Pettibone and Scott Wyshynski, sound designer Tom Libonate, and stage manager Kathy Bolster. This particular production of Souvenir premiered at The Westport Community Theatre, under the direction of Ruth Anne Baumgartner, on April 11, 2014, where it received rave reviews and many sold-out houses. Souvenir runs May 1 through 23. Curtain time is 8:00 pm Fridays & Saturdays, with 2:00 pm Sunday matinees on May 10 and 17. Tickets for all shows are $23 for reserved seating. Students and Military personnel with ID will be admitted for $18. On Thursday, April 30, Senior Citizens are invited to a free dress rehearsal at 8:00 p.m. Thursday, May 7 at 8:00 p.m. is TheatreWorks’ Pay-What-You-Want night. At this performance, patrons name the price for their ticket. Rervations can be made online at www.THEATREWORKS.US or by calling the box office at (860) 350-6863. TheatreWorks is an award-winning, non-Equity theatre company, named Best Community Theater in Connecticut by Connecticut Magazine. TheatreWorks is located on 5 Brookside Avenue , just off Route 202 (next to the CVS), in New Milford , CT.

June 2015
MORE THEATRE
By Melinda O’Brien & Michael Muldoon

HUDSON VALLEY SHAKESPEARE FESTIVAL: SUMMER SEASON 2015

The Hudson Valley Shakespeare Festival will run from June 9 to September 1 and will present in repertory: The Winter’s Tale, directed by Artistic Director Davis McCallum, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, directed by Eric Tucker, The Arabian Nights, directed by Lileana Blain-Cruz, An Iliad, directed by Gaye Taylor Upchurch, and presents the HVSF Conservatory production of The Tempest directed by Jim Calder. All on the grounds of Boscobel House and Gardens, 1601 Route 9D, Garrison, New York (Free parking). Show times are 7:30 pm for all performances. Grounds open for picnicking at 5:30 pm. Tickets are $28-$84 and available online at www.hvshakespeare.org or by calling (845) 265-9575.

This is the first real season for Davis McCallum, Artistic Director since May of 2014. He spent last summer watching the plays and the audiences, thinking of plays that would have an active connection between them under the big tent at Boscobel. Unlike a traditional theater, this audience is very close to and almost surrounding the actors connecting them moment by moment throughout the telling of the story. And storytelling is what this season is all about. The Winter’s Tale, a late romantic masterpiece, compliments A Midsummer Night’s Dream with a winter/summer theme and sense of the pleasure of storytelling at its best. And The Arabian Nights, a story about storytelling, brings perfect harmony to the season.

In addition, a HVSF favorite, Kurt Rhodes, will star in the one-man production of An Iliad, for five performances only at the festival, but will be touring the area as well (more on that next month!). And, a special family-friendly production of The Tempest by the HVSF Conservatory Company will bring the season to a whopping five shows. It’s time to picnic!

WESTCHESTER BROADWAY THEATRE: WEST SIDE STORY
Excerpt from the Review in May’s article:

“Vibrant, colorful, incredible, lively and wonderful.” These were just some of the adjectives I heard from audience members at the opening night of the Westchester Broadway Theatre’s production of West Side Story. Director and choreographer Barry McNabb brings back all the elements that made the 1957 Broadway musical such a remarkable force: a mélange of music, plot and dance; heavily spiced with adolescent lust, anger and anxiety. At WBT, this tough New York City streetscape is brimming with talent. First, Brandon Contreras as Bernardo, the head of the Sharks and Adam Soniak as Riff as the head of the Jets. They lead their respective gangs, gracefully dancing, menacing each other and singing to the rafters. A crowd of finger-snapping, balletic, tough guys. Two lovers, a la Romeo and Juliette, emerge from the rival forces. Carly Evans has a beautiful soprano and grounds the character of Maria as the mature, moral voice of her generation. Zach Trimmer, with his soaring tenor, is a marvelous Tony; recklessly in love. Ed Romanoff stands out as Lt. Schrank, cranky and boorish and is virtually unrecognizable as Glad Hand, swishingly vacuous. The entire cast is top-notch.

WESTCHESTER BROADWAY THEATRE: SPECIAL EVENTS

In addition, WBT is showcasing numerous concerts, comedy nights and special events. Make reservations now. Subscribe to 3 or 4 shows and save money on each ticket as well as enjoying other benefits. Check out the website at www.broadwaytheatre.com for the detailed information or call the Box Office at 914-592-2222.

COMEDY NIGHT: A NIGHT OF 1000 LAUGHS
Monday, June 8
Outstanding ADULT Comedy with six of stand-up’s best comedians: Joe Larson, Leighann Lord, Tom McTiernan, Angel Salazar, Joey Vega, Greg Warren. A hilarious evening, but not for the faint of heart, these well – known comedians hold nothing back! Adults only! Time: 6:15 pm Dinner, 8:00 pm Show, $84.00 plus tax per person, 6:15 pm Dinner 8:00 pm Show.

SUBWAY SERIES DOO WOOP
Tuesday, June 16
A Great Line- Up of Doo-Wop Greats!
John Kuse and The Excellents, The Demensions, The Quotations, The Fireflies. Time: 6:15 pm Dinner, 8:00 pm Show, $84.00 plus tax per person.

FREE OUTDOOR CONCERT: RETROSPECT

A FREE Concert, Retrospekt at 2:00 pm on Sunday, June 7 at the John C. Hart Memorial Library is at 1130 East Main Street, Shrub Oak, NY 10588. For more information go to the website www.yorktownlibraty.org or call 914-245-5262, ext. 227. With covers from the hits of the 50’s, 60’s and a touch of the 70’s, Retrospekt will bring back memories or street corner a cappella, tar beach, slow dancing and funky rhythms. Dancing is encouraged along with singing along, general foot stomping and picnicking! The concert will be held on the library porch (weather permitting) and you can bring your picnic and lawn chairs to enjoy.

YCP THEATERWORKS: DOUBT, A PARABLE

YCP TheaterWorks will present John Patrick Shanley’s provocative play, Doubt, A Parable, winner of the 2005 Pulitzer Prize and Tony Awards. Set in the Bronx in 1964, Doubt tells of Father Brendan Flynn (Ed Fonzo), a reform-minded Catholic priest and teacher who becomes
locked in a battle with an imperious, old-school nun and Principal named Sister Aloysius Beauvier (Kate Gleeson). Sister James (Ariana Fox ), a young impressionable nun finds herself in the middle of this battle, as does Mrs Muller (Kim E. Chandler), the mother of a young
boy attending St Nicholas Catholic School. Doubt is directed by Richard Troiano

YCP TheaterWorks will present Doubt at the Shrub Oak United Methodist Church (Parish Hall) 1176 East Main Street, Shrub Oak, NY 10588. The Parish Hall is the white one-story building behind the stone church. Performances will be on Friday and Saturday Nights at 8:00 pm with Sunday matines at 2:00 pm on May 31 & June 7. Tickets are available online www.ycptw.org or call 1-800-838-3006 for $18 for Adults and $16 for students and seniors. Tickets will
be available at the door for $20 for Adults and $18 for students and seniors.

THE ARMONK PLAYERS: TIME STANDS STILL

The Armonk Players will stage Time Stands Still by Donald Margulies from June 5 to 13 at Whippoorwill Hall of The Armonk Public Library, 19 Whippoorwill Road East (the entrance is on Kent Place) Armonk, NY. 10504. Tickets are Adults: $20, Students (18 and under): $10. For information and tickets go to www.armonkplayers.org. 10% restaurant discounts during the show run with ticket stub or online purchase voucher! Go to www.armonkchamber.chambermaster.com/hotdeals and click on “Showtime in Armonk Promotion” for details.

Time Stands Still is the story of James and Sarah, a journalist and a photographer, who share a passion for documenting the realities of war. But when injuries force them to return home to New York, the adventurous couple confronts the prospect of a more conventional life. A blazingly important new work about responsibility – to ourselves, to our loved ones, to our community, and to our world. This Broadway-hit play by Pulitzer Prize-winner Donald Margulies is a witty, intelligent look at what happens when ordinary life is refracted through the lens of war. The Armonk Players production features: Tom Coppola, P. J. Glazer, Liz Harrington and Amber Mason. Directed by Pia Haas. Production Stage Manager: Jeff Rocco. Designed by Anthony Valbiro. Lighting design by Rodd Berro.

THE SMALL TOWN THEATRE COMPANY: I AM MY OWN WIFE

The Small Town Theatre Company will present I Am My Own Wife on June 12 and,13 at 8:00 pm at the Hergenhan Center, 40 Maple Avenue, Armonk, NY 10504 AND on June 19 and 20 at 8:00 pm at the Katonah Village Library, 26 Bedford Road, Katonah, NY 10536. General admission $20 for all shows and reservations and information can be found at www.SmallTownTheatre.com.

I Am My Own Wife is Doug Wright’s Pulitzer Prize-winning one-man play in its fully-staged Westchester premiere. It tells the story of East German transvestite Charlotte von Mahlsdorf who operated an antique business for years despite the encroaching dangers of the Nazi and Communist regimes. With Tom Kramer and directed by Mara Mills.

RIDGEFIELD THEATER BARN: WHO’S AFRAID OF VIRGINIA WOOLF

Ridgefield Theater Barn will stage Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf, a play by Edward Albee from
June 5 to 27, Friday and Saturday evenings at 8:00 pm, Sunday matinees June 14 & 21 at 5:00 pm. Tickets are $24/$20, Doors open 1 hour prior to curtain, cabaret style, bring food and drink. Directed by David Bass and Produced by Sherry Asch. Featuring Nancy Anderson, Kimberly Knispel, Bruce Tredwell, and Daniel Ross Willey.

On the campus of a small New England college, George and Martha invite a new professor and his wife for a nightcap in the wee hours of the night. As the cocktails flow, Nick and Honey, the young couple find themselves in the crossfire of a savage marital war where the combatants attack the self deceptions they forged for their own survival. George and Martha face off as one of the theater’s most notoriously dysfunctional couples in playwright Edward Albee’s hilarious and harrowing masterpiece. Due to strong language and adult content, this play is recommended for mature audiences. The Ridgefield Theater Barn is located at 37 Halpin Lane, Ridgefield, CT, www.ridgefieldtheaterbarn.org 203-431-9850.

M&M PERFORMING ARTS COMPANY: SHERLOCK HOLMES IN LYNDHURST MANSION IN JUNE

The great detective Sherlock Holmes and Doctor Watson are on the case at Ridling Thorpe Manor (the manor is played by historic Lyndhurst Mansion). The classic mystery is given a special period flavor as it takes place throughout the beautiful Lyndhurst mansion. Sherlock Holmes: The Adventure of the Dancing Men is by Tal Aviezer and directed by Holland Renton.
Performances are June 19 through 28, Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays and Wednesdays at 7:00 pm. Tickets are $35.00 for adults and $30.00 for seniors and children (16 and under) and are available at www.Lyndhurst.org. Group sales and information available at 914-631-4481.

Sherlock Holmes (Tal Aviezer) and Doctor Watson (Joe Laureiro) are called upon to solve an odd case. Mr. Hilton Cubitt (Michael Muldoon) is baffled when childish drawings of little dancing men mysteriously appear in and around his beautiful country estate in Darbyshire, terrifying his young American wife (Zoey Rutherford). Are the strange drawings a bizarre prank, or a warning of deadly danger? Join us for an original dramatic adaptation of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s classic story as we explore Lyndhurst mansion, a true Gothic revival country house in the heart of the Hudson Valley, for the clues to unravel one of Holmes’ most thrilling adventures.

M&M PERFORMING ARTS COMPANY: THE UNDERSTUDY IN LYNDHURST CARRIAGE HOUSE THEATRE IN JULY

The Understudy, a comedy by Theresa Rebeck will come to the Lyndhurst Carriage House this summer. Opening night is Friday, July 10, the show runs Saturdays, Sundays and Wednesdays July 11 through 26, all at 7:00 pm. Tickets are $35.00 for adults and $30.00 for seniors and children (16 and under) and are available at Lyndhurst.org or by calling 888-71-TICKETS. Group sales available at 914-303-6840.

In this bitingly witty and entertaining comedy, the lights of Broadway cast an affectionate glow on one of the most notorious roles in the theater: the understudy. The play opens with Franz Kafka’s undiscovered masterpiece making its Broadway premiere. Roxanne, the stage manager, has the daunting task of running the understudy rehearsal. Enter Harry, a journeyman actor who just happens to be Roxanne’s ex-fiancé. And then there’s Jake, a Hollywood action star craving a little legitimacy. Throw in an unreliable techie and a bunch of producers threatening to close down the show and you have one very funny comedy.

Veteran director Larry Schneider brings together a sterling cast including Carly Jayne Lillo, Peter Lillo and Michael Muldoon to deliver this delightful comedy to the wonderful Lyndhurst Carriage House Theatre. Nan Weiss and Emmy Schwartz are the indomitable stage managers.

POWERHOUSE SEASON AT VASSAR COLLEGE

Summer is coming and so is the 31st Powerhouse Season! Subscription tickets on sale now. Performances begin June 26th. www.powerhouse.vassar.edu.

Mainstage
The Unbuilt City By Keith Bunin Directed by Sean Mathias (July 1-July 12) and The Light Years Written by Hannah Bos and Paul Thureen, Developed and directed by Oliver Butler, Made by The Debate Society (July 23-August 2).

Musical Workshops
Rain Book by Sybille Pearson, Music and lyrics by Michael John LaChiusa, Based on the short story by Somerset Maugham, Directed by Barry Edelstein (July 10-July 12). Loving v. Virginia Book and lyrics by Marcus Gardley, Music composition by Justin Ellington, Direction and additional lyrics by Patricia McGregor, Conceived by Patricia McGregor (July 17-July 19). Noir Music by Duncan Sheik, Book by Kyle Jarrow, Lyrics by Kyle Jarrow and Duncan Sheik, Directed by Rachel Chavkin (July 31-August 2).

Inside Look Play Workshops
Desire Six new plays based on stories by Tennessee Williams by Elizabeth Egloff, Marcus Gardley, Rebecca Gilman, David Grimm, John Guare, and Beth Henley, Directed by Michael Wilson (July 2-July 5). The Last Match, Written by Anna Ziegler, Directed by Gaye Taylor Upchurch (July 17-July 19).

Reading Series 1
(June 26-June 28)
Junk by Ayad Akhtar
a boy put this girl in a cage with a dog and the dog killed the girl by Clare Barron
The Dizzy Little Dance Of Russell DiFinaldi by Stephen Belber
The Profane by Zayd Dohrn
15 Minutes book by Rick Elice, music and lyrics by Stephen Trask & Peter Yanowitz

Reading Series 2
(July 31-August 2)
Open Road music and lyrics by Paul Scott Goodman, book by Paul Scott Goodman and Joseph Hendel
The Brother(s) by Colman Domingo
Talk To Me Of Love by Meghan Kennedy
White Noise, White Light by Nicky Silver
Additional projects to be announced

July 2015
MORE THEATRE
By Melinda O’Brien & Michael Muldoon

HUDSON VALLEY SHAKESPEARE FESTIVAL: SUMMER SEASON 2015

Spotlight on: THE ARABIAN NIGHTS
By Mary Zimmerman, adapted from The Book of the Thousand Nights and One Night
Directed by Lileana Blain-Cruz

Interview
By Michael J. Muldoon

Many a night Lileana Blain-Cruz passed by the tent at Boscobel on her way to an artist friend. She thought “who wouldn’t love to work on this landscape – dreamy haze, majestic mountains; a directors dream backdrop.” Now, to the benefit of Hudson Valley audiences, this acclaimed director is here to direct The Arabian Nights this summer.

Taking a turn from recent directing efforts including Much Ado About Nothing at the Oregon Shakespeare Festival, War at Yale Repertory Theater and Salome, she is excited to take on this new yet ancient work. Not having seen any plays of author Mary Zimmerman, Blain-Cruz was thrilled to meet her when Zimmerman directed Guys and Dolls earlier this year in Ashland, OR. Zimmerman, the Tony, Drama Desk, Obie, Outer Critics Circle Award Winner, is also the recipient of MacArthur Fellowship (Genius) Award.

Blain-Cruz described The Arabian Nights as “a combination of classical and new, with eclectic movement.” Like the author, she too is interested in mythology and “the aliveness of the script.”
Blain-Cruz also appreciated that the script is a blueprint, rather than written in stone,
“open to reimagine and reinvent.” She is excited to do just that. Blain-Cruz said that “Mary Zimmerman has done a beautiful job taking the 4 volumes and turning it into a vital theatrical piece.” She feels that “HVSF is about actor’s connection to audience.” She is eager to create and transform these timeless stories with HVSF’s talented actors.

One Thousand and One Nights has delighted readers for centuries. The stories range the gamut of emotions we all experience today: from searching for love, to the unknown, indiscretions and unrequited love. The sublime to the silly. They enable us to “live in the realm of myth.” Despite the fact that “We are so inundated with images that separate us, we can put ourselves in other peoples shoes.”

This summer, at HVSF’s The Arabian Nights, audiences can look forward to a “fun, crazy, joyous night of theater.” HVSF presents The Arabian Nights through August 30, 2015. Check out www.hvshakespeare.org or call the Box Office at 845-265-9575. Make sure to bring a picnic to enjoy the spectacular grounds or purchase freshly-made fare at the HVSF Café including beer and wine.

The Hudson Valley Shakespeare Festival will run from June 9 to September 1 and will present in repertory: The Winter’s Tale, directed by Artistic Director Davis McCallum, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, directed by Eric Tucker, The Arabian Nights, directed by Lileana Blain-Cruz, An Iliad, directed by Gaye Taylor Upchurch, and presents the HVSF Conservatory production of The Tempest directed by Jim Calder. All on the grounds of Boscobel House and Gardens, 1601 Route 9D, Garrison, New York (Free parking). Show times are 7:30 pm for all performances. Grounds open for picnicking at 5:30 pm. Tickets are $28-$84 and available online at www.hvshakespeare.org or by calling (845) 265-9575.

WESTCHESTER BROADWAY THEATRE: GODSPELL

Next up on the boards at Westchester Broadway Theatre in July is Godspell. This immensely successful rock opera was the first major musical theatre offering from 3-time Grammy and Academy Award winner Stephen Schwartz (Wicked, Pippin, Children of Eden). It is based on the Gospel according to St Matthew. It focuses on the last days of Jesus, and includes dramatized versions of several well-known parables. At once, a demonstration of joy, and a celebration of the family of man, Jesus’s messages of kindness, tolerance, and love come vibrantly to life.
The cast are conceived as clowns, improvising scenery and costumes, and using a wide variety of games, storytelling techniques, pantomime, comic timing and varied musical styles to interpret one of humanity’s greatest events.

In addition, WBT is showcasing numerous concerts, comedy nights and special events. Make reservations now. Subscribe to 3 or 4 shows and save money on each ticket as well as enjoying other benefits. Check out the website at www.broadwaytheatre.com for the detailed information or call the Box Office at 914-592-2222.

M&M PERFORMING ARTS: THE UNDERSTUDY IN LYNDHURST CARRIAGE HOUSE THEATRE IN JULY

The Understudy, a comedy by Theresa Rebeck will come to the (air conditioned) Lyndhurst Carriage House Theatre this summer. Opening night is Friday, July 10, the show runs Saturdays, Sundays and Wednesdays July 11 through 26, all at 7:00 pm. Tickets are $35.00 for adults and $30.00 for seniors and children (16 and under) and are available at www.Lyndhurst.org or by calling 888-71-TICKETS. Group sales available at 914-303-6840. Free parking. Picnic before the show on the beautiful grounds of Lyndhurst.

In this bitingly witty and entertaining comedy, the lights of Broadway cast an affectionate glow on one of the most notorious roles in the theater: the understudy. The play opens with Franz Kafka’s undiscovered masterpiece making its Broadway premiere. Roxanne, the stage manager, has the daunting task of running the understudy rehearsal. Enter Harry, a journeyman actor who just happens to be Roxanne’s ex-fiancé. And then there’s Jake, a Hollywood action star craving a little legitimacy. Throw in an unreliable techie and a bunch of producers threatening to close down the show and you have one very funny comedy.

Veteran director Larry Schneider brings together a sterling cast including Carly Jayne Lillo, Peter Lillo and Michael Muldoon to deliver this delightful comedy to the wonderful Lyndhurst Carriage House Theatre. Nan Weiss and Emmy Schwartz are the indomitable stage managers. See M&M’s website for schedules and tickets www.mmpaci.com.

RED MONKEY THEATER GROUP: A SEASON OF TRUTH & LIES

Red Monkey Theater Group, in residence at the College of Mount Saint Vincent, presents A SEASON OF TRUTH & LIES. Opening with Sherlock Holmes: The Adventure of the Red-Headed League, adapted by Tal Aviezer from the story by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle
Sherlock Holmes (Tal Aviezer) and Dr. Watson (Joe Laureiro), fresh from M&M’s production of The Adventure of the Dancing Men at Lyndhurst, return to Cahill Theater to confront their strangest and most exciting adventure yet when they encounter the mysterious Red-Headed League. Directed by Carolyn J. Fuchs. On stage October 10 – 25.

Followed by Becky Shaw by Gina Gionfriddo. A newlywed couple fixes up two romantically challenged friends: wife’s best friend, meet husband’s sexy and strange new co-worker. When an evening calculated to bring happiness takes a dark turn, crisis and comedy ensue in this wickedly funny play that asks what we owe the people we love and the strangers who land on our doorstep. Directed by Joe Laureiro and on stage February 20 & 21, 2016.

RMTG’s Season of Truth and Lies concludes with the Bard’s classic tale of loyalty, betrayal, ambition, and intrigue as the demands of human hearts fuel the fall of a republic and the birth of an empire. Julius Caesar by William Shakespeare will be directed by Tal Aviezer and run April 2 – 16, 2016. Tickets & more info: www.redmonkeytheater.org.

PMT: WESTCHESTER TEEN IDOL CONTACT AUDITIONS

Westchester’s Teen Idol Contest Is Back! PMT Announces Competition Auditions for September. PMT Productions, a Westchester-based non-profit community theatre organization, has announced 2015 auditions for its wildly popular Westchester Teen Idol competition. Teen vocalists (between ages 13-19) are invited to join one of the county’s most exciting competitions of the last ten years. Auditions are slated for Saturday, September 19 & Sunday September 20 from 1-6 pm at the Irvington Town Hall Theatre, Main Street, Irvington, NY.

All teens in the Westchester region are invited to participate, however, those wishing to compete are required to R.S.V.P for an audition appointment by calling (914) 402-4250 and registering online at pmtproductions.org. As audition space is limited, those interested are encouraged to call and reserve an audition space as soon as possible. Each participant will also be required to pay a $40 audition fee, and be available to perform for the 2015 competition finale concert, which will take place at the Irvington Town Hall Theatre on the evening of Saturday, November 14.

YCP THEATERWORKS: ANNOUNCES NEW SEASON

YCP TheaterWorks announces our 56th Season, 2015-2016. In the fall will be Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf? by Edward Albee and directed by Matt Silver. The winter production will be The Odd Couple, by Neil Simon and directed by Joel Karpoff with Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike, by Christopher Durang capping the season in the spring of 2016, directed by Richard Troiano. Auditions will be announced soon for Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf? Watch our facebook page (www.facebook.com/pages/YCP-TheaterWorks) and your email for more information. You can also go to our website www.ycptw.org for details.

SHERMAN PLAYHOUSE: ARSENIC AND OLD LACE

Something’s Rotten in the City of Brooklyn. On Friday, July 10, The Sherman Playhouse will premiere Joseph Kesselring’s classic theatrical chestnut, Arsenic and Old Lace. The curtain goes up at 8:00 pm on a four-week run. Arsenic and Old Lace is the quintessential farcical black comedy. It focuses on the Brewster family, currently residing in 1940s Brooklyn. The family is comprised of two charming spinster aunts who populate their cellar with the remains of socially and religiously “acceptable” roomers; their brother who thinks he is Teddy Roosevelt; and another brother, Mortimer, a drama critic who must deal with his crazy, homicidal family as he debates whether to go through with his recent promise to marry. The play is one of the most popularly performed American comedies of the past 75 years.

“Under a microscope, some of these characters could be conceivably seen as evil incarnate. But for 70 years, this production has created more folk heroes out of these sweet aunts and savage villains, rather than supposed wicked characters,” said director Robin Frome of New Milford. “I believe we achieved Arsenic and Old Lace as it should be, but only by the talents and hard work of our cast and crew. They knew we all had to work as hard as possible to get this production in top working condition. They are, and will always continue to be, my heroes of the great art of farce.”

The production features some excellent regional actors: David Bailey, Lucy Shea, William Kenyon, Patricia Michael, Steve Manzino, Martin Rosato, Dean Alexander and Jeff Rossman, Katherine and David Almquist, and Gabe Fowler and Chris Marker. In addition to Frome, who also co-designed the set, the show’s crew includes lighting designer and co-set designer Al Chiapetta, sound designer David White, and assistant director and stage manager Kate Morris.

Arsenic and Old Lace runs July 10 through August 2. Curtain time is 8:00 pm Fridays & Saturdays and at a Thursday evening performance on July 30, with 2:00 pm, Sunday matinees on July 19 and August 2. Tickets for all shows are $22 for adults and $11 for children 12 and under. On Thursday, July 9, all patrons are invited to attend a “Half-Price Preview Night” at 8:00 pm where all tickets are only $11. Students may see any performance for only $11 if they pay in cash only at the door and carry a valid student ID. Students may not make reservations in advance for a performance.

Reservations can be made online at shermanplayers.org or by calling the box office at 860-354-3622. The Sherman Playhouse is a non-Equity theatre company located at 5 Route 39 North (next to the firehouse) in Sherman, CT.

THEATREWORKS NEW MILFORD: LEADING LADIES: AUDITIONS

Auditions will be held at TheatreWorks, 5 Brookside Ave., New Milford (next to the CVS) on Monday, July 13 and Tuesday, July 14 from 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm. TheatreWorks New Milford is seeking a cast of 3 women (ages 20 to 80) and 5 men (ages 20 to 65) for its fall production of Ken Ludwig’s hilarious farce, Leading Ladies. Auditions will consist of reading from the script. All roles are available and both professionals and amateurs are welcome. No appointments are necessary. TheatreWorks offers a stipend to all performers, technicians, and directors. For character breakdowns, to download audition sides, and to get more info, visit: theatreworks.us/actors. Leading Ladies is under the direction of Michael Bolinksi. Rehearsals begin in August with performances running September 19 through October 10.

From the author of Lend Me a Tenor and Moon Over Buffalo comes Leading Ladies, an outrageous new comedy. Jack and Leo are two English Shakespearean actors who are so down on their luck, they are reduced to performing “Scenes from Shakespeare” on the Moose Lodge circuit in the Amish country of Pennsylvania. But when they hear that an old lady in York, PA is about to die and leave her fortune to her two long lost English nephews, they resolve to pass themselves off as her beloved relatives and get the cash. The trouble is, when they get to York, they find out that the relatives aren’t nephews, but nieces and, in the tradition of any Ken Ludwig farce, absolute hilarity ensues.

THE SHERMAN PLAYHOUSE: THE ROCKY HORROR SHOW: AUDITIONS

The Sherman Playhouse is seeking a large cast of men and women (ages 20 to 60) for the outrageous cult musical comedy The Rocky Horror Show, with Book, Lyrics, and Music by Robert O’Brien. Auditions are Sunday, July 12, from 1:00 pm to 6:00 pm, and Monday and Tuesday, July 13 and 14, from 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm at The Sherman Playhouse, 5 Route 39 North (next to the fire station), in Sherman, CT.

Auditioners should be prepared to sing a full song (songs from the show are acceptable) and should provide their own backing music on CD or MP3 (there will be a CD player/speaker system available) or be prepared to sing A Cappella. There will be no accompanist available. Auditioners should be familiar with the show and expect to do cold readings. All roles, with the exception of the Narrator, are available and both professionals and amateurs are welcome. No appointments are necessary. For more details and character breakdowns, visit SHERMANPLAYERS.ORG. The Rocky Horror Show is under the direction of Francis A. Daley. Performances will run from October 2 to 31.

On the way to visit an old college professor, two clean-cut young people, Brad Majors and his fiancée Janet Weiss, run into trouble and seek help at the freaky Frankenstein mansion. However, little do they know that the estate is inhabited by alien transsexuals from the planet Transylvania, and Dr. Frank N. Furter is in the midst of one of his maniacal experiments. What transpires is nothing less than The Rocky Horror Show, one of the most deliberately kitschy, campy, funny, rock ‘n’ roll, sci-fi, gothic epics to ever grace the stage.

August 2015
MORE THEATRE
By Melinda O’Brien & Michael Muldoon

REVIEW: WESTCHESTER BROADWAY THEATRE: GODSPELL
By Jim Petrillo

“Prepare Ye the Way of the Lord!” The Westchester Broadway Theatre is now presenting the hit rock musical Godspell. The show was conceived in the early 70’s by John-Michael Tebelak, music and new lyrics by Stephen Schwartz. Godspell seems to never grow old, mostly because of the encouragement from the publishers for the director to be creative in their presentation, using updated dialogue and incorporating current events. Director John Fanelli and the cast did a wonderful job doing just that throughout the show. There was a clever Trump skit at the beginning of which integrated perfectly into the show.

Each Bible parable is played out joyfully by this talented cast. Dialogue was crisp and full of character as the actors clowned around taking on various roles as the stories are told. They made this well-rehearsed show seem spontaneous and improvisational. Jesus, played by Gilbert D. Sanchez led this group the New Testament. This is Gilbert’s fourth time playing Jesus in various plays starting with a Passion Play in the 4th grade. Mr. Fanelli did a superb job staging this show. He used WBT’s ¾ round stage brilliantly. I never felt like I was looking at the actors’ backs or left out of the story. The actors constantly moved, keeping the action alive and interesting.

The young, energetic cast played off of one another wonderfully. They brought Schwartz’s music to life with strong, bright voices. The audience often clapped to the music’s rhythm as the incredible sound of the orchestra filled the theater. Godspell features classic popular songs such as “Prepare Ye” and “Day by Day” giving each multi-talented cast member their time to shine in both acting and singing. This show moves swiftly, moving smoothly from one parable to the next. It was truly a pleasure to watch from beginning to end. Of course the evening started with a great dinner served before the show. Each table has a perfect view of the stage. The service is always swift professional and courteous. Be sure to catch WBT’s production of Godspell, you’ll laugh, you’ll sing, you’ll cry, and love every moment!

In addition, WBT is showcasing numerous concerts, comedy nights and special events. Make reservations now. Subscribe to 3 or 4 shows and save money on each ticket as well as enjoying other benefits. Check out the website at www.broadwaytheatre.com for the detailed information or call the Box Office at 914-592-2222.

HUDSON VALLEY SHAKESPEARE FESTIVAL: SUMMER SEASON 2015

The Hudson Valley Shakespeare Festival will run from to September 1 and will present in repertory: The Winter’s Tale, directed by Artistic Director Davis McCallum, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, directed by Eric Tucker, The Arabian Nights, directed by Lileana Blain-Cruz, An Iliad, directed by Gaye Taylor Upchurch, and presents the HVSF Conservatory production of The Tempest directed by Jim Calder. All on the grounds of Boscobel House and Gardens, 1601 Route 9D, Garrison, New York (Free parking). Show times are 7:30 pm for all performances. Grounds open for picnicking at 5:30 pm. Tickets are $28-$84 and available online at www.hvshakespeare.org or by calling (845) 265-9575.

M&M just went to A Midsummer Night’s Dream last night and it was hilarious! It is a fast-paced almost acrobatic rendition conceived by director Eric Tucker, all done with five, yes five, actors without any props or costume changes. The five actors were amazing: Mark Bedard, Sean McNall, Jason O’Connell, Joey Parsons and Nance Williamson. People that know the story will be particularly interested in seeing this take on a classic, but everyone will enjoy it. GO SEE IT!

A new twist this year is Hudson Valley Shakespeare ON THE ROAD. For the first time in the history of HVSF, is taking two of their mainstage productions on tour throughout the Hudson Valley.

An Iliad
August 8: Hudson River Museum
August 16: Basilica Hudson
August 22& 23: Bannerman Island
September 2: West Point

The Tempest
August 15: Ridgefield Playhouse
August 22: Hudson River Museum
August 23: The Center for Performing Arts at Rhinebeck
September 4 & 5: Storm Kind Art Center
September 6: Paramount Hudson Valley

WHITE PLAINS PERFORMING ARTS CENTER: CHESS THE MUSICAL

Chess will be on-stage Friday, August 7 and Saturday, August 8 at 8:00 pm and Sunday, August 9 at 2:00 pm at the White Plains Performing Arts Center located on the third level of City Center off Mamaroneck Avenue in downtown White Plains. Tickets are $35 (adults) and $25 (22 & younger). For tickets: visit the theatre box office Monday-Friday (11am-6pm), purchase the tickets online at www.wppac.com or call 914-328-1600. For Group Sales, please contact barbara@wppac.com.

Chess, the smash hit rock musical of the 1980s is back in a re-imaged production updated to today’s explosive political climate between the United States and the Middle East. In this production of Chess, the ancient game becomes a metaphor for romantic rivalries, competitive gamesmanship, political power-plays and international intrigues. From one match to another, the players, lovers, politicians, and spies manipulate and are manipulated to the pulse of a monumental rock score by ABBA’s Bjorn Ulvaeus and Benny Andersson, with book by Richard Nelson and Lyrics by Tim Rice. Chess is directed by Keith Levenson with musical direction by Brent McGee and choreography by Jennifer Jonas.

White Plains Performing Arts Center has created a summer theatre program called STAGE 2 that bridges the gap between our Conservatory and MainStage, giving college and graduate school performers the opportunity to work in a Professional Regional Theatre under the guidance of Broadway artists. While geared for those in college or graduate school, any non-union actors who feel they may benefit from this experience are welcome to audition. The program’s inaugural production was last summer’s Parade.

RED MONKEY THEATER GROUP: CASTING CALL

Sherlock Holmes: The Adventure of the Red-Headed League by Tal Aviezer, adapted from the work of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle and directed by Carolyn J. Fuchs.

Auditions: Sunday, August 2, 2pm-4pm
Audition, Rehearsal & Performance Location:
Cahill Theater, Founder’s Hall
College of Mount Saint Vincent
6301 Riverdale Ave.
Riverdale, NY 10471

Performance Dates: Oct 10, 11, 15, 18, 22, 23, 24, 25. Rehearsals to begin in late August and will be held on evenings and some weekends. RMTG presents an original dramatic adaptation of one of Sherlock Holmes and Doctor Watson’s strangest and most thrilling adventures.

Open call. Sign-in sheet will be posted. Sides will be provided. Non-Union.
Casting the following roles:
• Jabez Wilson (Lead) – Male 40s-60s – Excitable, self-interested pawn-broker. Comic timing required. British accent.
• Merryweather (Supporting) – Male 50s-60s – Self-important bank director. Dignified, patrician. British accent.
Info: www.redmonkeytheater.org

PMT: WESTCHESTER TEEN IDOL: AUDITIONS

Westchester’s Teen Idol Contest Is Back! PMT Announces Competition Auditions for September. PMT Productions, a Westchester-based non-profit community theatre organization, has announced 2015 auditions for its wildly popular Westchester Teen Idol competition. Teen vocalists (between ages 13-19) are invited to join one of the county’s most exciting competitions of the last ten years. Auditions are slated for Saturday, September 19 & Sunday September 20 from 1-6 pm at the Irvington Town Hall Theatre, Main Street, Irvington, NY.

All teens in the Westchester region are invited to participate, however, those wishing to compete are required to R.S.V.P for an audition appointment by calling (914) 402-4250 and registering online at pmtproductions.org. As audition space is limited, those interested are encouraged to call and reserve an audition space as soon as possible. Each participant will also be required to pay a $40 audition fee, and be available to perform for the 2015 competition finale concert, which will take place at the Irvington Town Hall Theatre on the evening of Saturday, November 14.

YCP THEATERWORKS: CASTING CALL

YCP TheaterWorks’ 56th Season, 2015-2016 will open with Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf? by Edward Albee and directed by Matt Silver. The winter production will be The Odd Couple, by Neil Simon and directed by Joel Karpoff with Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike, by Christopher Durang capping the season in the spring of 2016, directed by Richard Troiano.

Open auditions for Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf? will be held on Sunday, August 16 from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm and Wednesday, August 19 from 7:30 to 9:30 pm at the John C. Hart Memorial Library, 1130 East Main Street, Shrub Oak, NY 10588. Performances are not yet set but are scheduled for the fall. The original Broadway production of this play was a shattering and memorable experience and proclaimed the author as a major American playwright. For more information contact the director, Matt Silver at msilver2222@yahoo.com.

Winner! 5 Tony Awards including Best Play, 1963
Winner! 2013 Outer Critics Circle Award, Outstanding Revival of a Play
Nominee! 2013 Drama Desk Award, Outstanding Revival of a Play
Winner! 2013 Drama League Award, Outstanding Revival of a Play
Nominee! 2013 Tony Award, Best Revival of a Play

The story finds George, a professor at a small college, and his wife, Martha, have just returned home, drunk from a Saturday night party. Martha announces, that she has invited a young couple—an opportunistic new professor at the college and his shatteringly naïve new bride—to stop by for a nightcap. When they arrive the charade begins. The drinks flow and suddenly inhibitions melt. It becomes clear that Martha is determined to seduce the young professor, and George couldn’t care less. But underneath the edgy banter, which is crossfired between both couples, lurks an undercurrent of tragedy and despair. George and Martha’s inhuman bitterness toward one another is provoked by the enormous personal sadness that they have pledged to keep to themselves: a secret that has seemingly been the foundation for their relationship. In the end, the mystery in which the distressed George and Martha have taken refuge is exposed, once and for all revealing the degrading mess they have made of their lives.

Watch our facebook page (www.facebook.com/pages/YCP-TheaterWorks) for more information. You can also go to our website www.ycptw.org for details.

AERY THEATRE COMPANY: DIRECTOR NEEDED

Director Needed for a wonderfully funny play – Head Case by PJ Andrews – to be part of the 9th Annual Aery Theatre Company 20/20 One-Act Festival, held at the Depot Theatre in Garrison, NY – September 11,12,13,18,19, 20. Head Case is a one-act comedy about a guy on a European vacation with his dad. Since his dad has been reduced to a head in a box, you’d think his demands would be few. Not so. And the old man presents more problems when love intrudes. Contact: Peter Andrews (playwright) – andrews845@verizon.net – (845) 621-1043 or Pat Lennon (producer) – plennon122@aol.com – (845) 526-2600.

HAND-TO-MOUTH PLAYERS: PLAYWRIGHT/DIRECTOR’S WORKSHOP

The Hand-to-Mouth Players announce performance dates for their 24th Annual Playwright/Director’s Workshop on Friday & Saturday, August 28 and 29 at 8:00 pm and Sunday, August 30 at 2:00 pm. Tickets: Adults $18 / Seniors & Students $15. Performances are at the Hendrick Hudson Free Library, 185 Kings Ferry Road, Montrose NY 10548. For information and directions call 914-734-8486 or 914-528-8704 or e-mail gdoc5@aol.com. And go to their website for up to date information: www.htmplayers.com

The Workshop consists of Six original One-act plays:
A Family Affair written by Albi Gorn, directed by Robin Anne Joseph
The Green Eyed Monster written by Michael F. Wolfson, directed by Bruce Pearl
Happy Anniversary written by Chris Arena, directed by Susan Bond
Head Case written by Peter Andrews, directed by Richard Troiano
Naming the Baby written and directed by Shaun Coen
Ray’s Date… Part One written and directed by Michael Ferrara

The entire production under the artistic direction of Anne Rodgers Pearl and Gary Simon and the plays feature: Nancy Jane Blake, Susan Bond, Daniel Burke, Tom Campbell, Alex Cote, Scott Griffith, Kelly Kirby, Jay Krass, Tom Lloyd, Gregory McCormack, Elizabeth Moritz, Anne Rodgers Pearl, Dianne Pennington, Steve Schnapper, Alexa Servodidio, Gary Simon, Dick Smith and Jacqueline Smith.

THE VAGINA MONOLOGUES

Benefit performances for the Hope For Change Foundation – All proceeds benefit Breast Cancer Research. Performances will be on August 7 & 8 at 8:00 pm and August 9 at 2:00 pm
Where: The Westchester Sandbox Theatre, 931 East Boston Post Road, Mamaroneck, NY
Tickets: $20 in advance; $25 at the door. Note: this group’s performances usually always sell out in advance (theater holds only 87 seats). Call: 914-206-9617 or go to website: www.hopeforchange.org

September 2015
MORE THEATRE
By Melinda O’Brien & Michael Muldoon

WESTCHESTER BROADWAY THEATRE: BACKWARDS IN HIGH HEELS, THE GINGER MUSICAL
Review by Michael J. Muldoon

Driving to the Westchester Broadway Theatre, I was thinking how fortunate we are to have this singular establishment. By offering classic shows and recent Broadway hits, along with a sumptuous meal, WBT has given me an opportunity for an education in musical theater. Tonight, however, was unique. I would be seeing a show that not only had I yet to see, but also, one I’d never heard of.

Backwards in High Heels, The Ginger Musical is the story of Ginger Rogers’ life, up to and including her accepting the 1941 Academy Award for Kitty Foyle. The musical is a showcase for dancing; particularly tap dancing, and what a showcase it is! Jeremy Benton does triple duty, directing, choreographing and suavely representing Fred Astaire. He performs all three duties with style. The crisp, synchronized tap number “Let’s Call the Whole Thing Off” with Darien Crago, the terrific dancer/ singer/actress who plays Ginger, is the highlight of the show; perhaps the highlight of the WBT season.

The remarkably talented cast of nine fills the large WBT stage with their beautiful voices and precise dancing. Nimbly choreographed and directed by Benton, each has the opportunity to stand out. Matt Gibson is particularly effective portraying the appealing Jack Culpepper in Act One with a startlingly convincing degeneration into the husband no one wants. Erika Amato as Ginger’s mother Lela carries a great deal of the emotional weight of the show. The mother/daughter relationship is the core of the show’s arc and in numbers such as “Baby Face” and particularly “You’ll Never Know” she demonstrates the parental pain of letting a beloved child go. Jacob ben Widmar is hysterical as the choreographer Hermes Pan. Avital Asuleen is terrific as Ethel Merman, Marlene Dietrich, Bette Davis and everyone else she impersonates.

It will be fascinating to see if this musical moves on to Broadway or Off-Broadway. Reprising favorite Irving Berlin and Gershwin Brother’s hit songs along with the original music from Christopher McGovern makes the score both familiar and fresh. However, there is little conflict in the one sided story and it plays out as a mother –daughter romance; like Gypsy without the heft. Also, the brief introduction and exit of Roger’s many husbands leaves what could be a fascinating subplot out of this show. In addition, we see things only from Rodger’s point of view, she seems to be the only one wronged: by her mother, her husbands and her Hollywood rivals. Nevertheless, it was an enjoyable evening. With talent like Crago, Benton, et al, this is definitely a show worth watching. Backwards in High Heels, The Ginger Musical runs from through September 20, Showboat from September 24 – November 29 and December 30 – January 31, 2016 and Tim and Scrooge from December 3-December 27, 2015. In addition, WBT is showcasing numerous concerts, comedy nights and special events. Make reservations now. Subscribe to 3 or 4 shows and save money on each ticket as well as enjoying other benefits. Check out the website at www.broadwaytheatre.com for the detailed information or call the Box Office at 914-592-2222.

WHITE PLAINS PERFORMING ARTS CENTER: MY MOTHER’S ITALIAN, MY FATHER’S JEWISH & I’M IN THERAPY!

The international hit comedy My Mother’s Italian, My Father’s Jewish & I’m in Therapy!, featuring Peter J. Fogel, comes to the White Plains Performing Arts Center for a five week engagement, September 30 – November 1. Described as “One part lasagna, one part kreplach, and two parts Prozac,” you don’t have to be Jewish or Italian to love this show. All you need is to know what it feels like to leave a family dinner with heartburn and a headache! My Mother’s Italian, My Father’s Jewish & I’m in Therapy! played for two years in New York City and has toured internationally in more than 100 cities.

Written by award-winning author Steve Solomon, the hilarious one-man comedy is based on his life growing up in a wacky family noted for its bi-ethnic diversity and aptitude for dysfunctional behavior, and all the people in his life whose sole purpose was to drive him into therapy! The author, whose mother is from Palermo and whose father is from Russia, grew up as one of two siblings in Brooklyn.

My Mother’s Italian, My Father’s Jewish & I’m in Therapy!, stars award-winning actor and comedian Peter Fogel, who has appeared in more than 20 television programs including Married With Children, Unhappily Ever After and Men Behaving Badly. The production won ”Favorite New Play” by Broadway.com and won the “Broadway Theater Fans Choice Award” on BroadwayWorld.com. The Connecticut Critics Circle and the San Francisco Drama Desk also nominated the show for awards.

Performance times are: Wednesdays at 7 p.m.; Thursdays at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.; Fridays at 8 p.m.; Saturdays at 2 and 8 p.m.; and Sundays at 2 p.m. White Plains Performing Arts Center is located at 11 City Place, White Plains, NY. Tickets are $45.00- $65.00 with Group discounts available. Tickets are available now and can be purchased at www.playhouseinfo.com or by calling 1-888-512-1202. For group discounts (12 or more), call 1-888-264-1788. The show is produced by Philip Roger Roy, Dana Matthow, and Bud Martin. For more information, visit www.ItalianJewish.com

NEWTOWN PLAYHERS: BUS STOP

Newtown Players will stage the classic, Bus Stop, by William Inge from September 4 through the 26 on Fridays and Saturdays at 8:00 pm and Sundays, September 13 & 20 at 2:00 pm. Tickets $18 – $22. Performances will be at the Little Theatre, 18 Orchard Hill Road, Newtown, CT 06470. Go to www.newtownplayers.org for more information or contact them at 203-270-9144; info@newtownplayers.org. A bus is forced to stop at a cheerful roadside diner in Kansas during a snowstorm. A disillusioned bar singer must contend with the attentions of a young cowboy who insists he will marry her, as the other passengers make personal connections and confront the dissatisfaction experienced in their own lives. Bus Stop is directed by Brian DeToma.

WESTSIDE THEATER: THE ABSOLUTE BRIHTNESS OF LEONARD PELKY

The Absolute Brightness of Leonard Pelkey, written by and starring James Lecesne is now playing through October 3 a the Westside Theater, West 43rd Street, NYC (between 9 and10 Avenues). Performances are Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays at 8:00 pm and Saturdays at 2:00 pm and Sundays at 3:00 pm. Tickets are $85. For more information go to absolutebrightnessplay.com.

One of the greatest storytellers of his generation, and co-founder of the Trevor Project, James Lecesne unravels the story of Leonard Pelkey, a tenaciously optimistic and flamboyant 14 year-old boy who goes missing. A luminous force of nature whose magic is only truly felt once he disappears, Leonard becomes the unexpected inspiration for the people of his small Jersey shore town as they question how they live, who they love and what they leave behind. This remarkable and moving new play is directed by Tony Speciale, with original music by Tony Award-winning composer Duncan Sheik.

WESTCHESTER COMMUNITY COLLEGE: CHINESE GOLDEN DRAGON ACROBATS

Chinese Golden Dragon Acrobats will perform on Saturday, September 19 at 8:00 pm. Ticket prices: $24 (Adults); $22 (Non-WCC Students/Seniors/Fac-Staff); $18 (Children under 13). Academic Arts Theatre at Westchester Community College, 75 Grasslands Rd, Valhalla NY 10595. Go to www.sunywcc.edu/smartarts or call 914- 606-6262 for more information.

Award-winning traditional dance, gravity-defying acrobatics and spectacular costuming are combined with ancient and contemporary theatrical techniques in a program of breathtaking skill and spellbinding beauty.

WESTCHESTER COMMUNITY COLLEGE: CAMERATA CHAMBER PLAYERS

Camerata Chamber Players: Fall Frolic Classical Period will perform on Sunday, September 13 at 3:00 pm. Ticket prices: $20 (Adults); $18 (Seniors); $14 (Non-WCC Students). Classroom Building — Room 200 at Westchester Community College, 75 Grasslands Rd, Valhalla NY 10595 Go to www.sunywcc.edu/smartarts or call 914- 606-6262 for more information.

Explore the afternoon joys and intimate ambience of classical music presented by the Camerata Chamber Players! Captivating string orchestral treasures will be performed from the Classic Period.

WESTCHESTER COLLABORATIVE THEATER: AN EVENING ON THE HUDSON

An Evening on the Hudson, a fundraiser benefiting the theater company on Saturday, September 19, will be an elegant and entertaining cocktail party overlooking the Hudson River from Shattemuc Yacht Club, 46 Westerly Road in Ossining. The event will feature live music performed by Emmy award nominated composer/arranger Kinny Landrum of Sleepy Hollow; guest speaker, Ossining resident, Sheila Speller, president of Orielle Creative Company LLC; gourmet fare; a silent auction; and a big ticket raffle. Tickets are $60 pp or $100 per couple in advance, and can be purchased through Brown Paper Tickets, www.brownpapertickets.com/event/1905471 or mail a check to PO Box 522 Ossining, NY 10562.

The Westchester Collaborative Theater is a multicultural, cooperative theater company located in Ossining, NY, dedicated to developing new work for the stage and bringing live theater to the community. Go to www.wctheater.org for more information.

LEADING LADIES: THEATREWORKS NEW MILFORD

From the author of Lend Me a Tenor and Moon Over Buffalo comes this outrageous new comedy, Leading Ladies. The story focuses on Jack and Leo, two English Shakespearean actors who are so down on their luck they are reduced to performing Scenes from Shakespeare on the Moose Lodge circuit in the Amish country of Pennsylvania. But when they hear that an old lady in York, PA is about to die and leave her fortune to her two long lost English nephews, they resolve to pass themselves off as her beloved relatives and get the cash. The trouble is, when they get to York, they find out that the relatives aren’t nephews, but nieces and, in the tradition of any Ken Ludwig farce, absolute hilarity ensues. The production features an outstanding cast from all over the tri-state area: Hal Chernoff, Victoria Calamito, Daniel Basiletti, Rob Pawlikowski, Edwin Acre, Mary Wilson, Carey Van Hollen, and Ron Dukenski.

Leading Ladies is under the direction of Michael Bolinski. Leading Ladiesruns September 18 through October 10. Curtain time is 8:00 pm Fridays & Saturdays, with a 2:00 pm Sunday matinee on October 4. Tickets for all shows are $23 for reserved seating. Students and Military personnel with ID will be admitted for $18. On Thursday, September 17, Senior Citizens are invited to a free dress rehearsal at 8:00 pm. Thursday, September 24 at 8:00 pm, is TheatreWorks’ Pay-What-You-Want night. At this performance, patrons name the price for their ticket. Reservations can be made online at THEATREWORKS.US or by calling the box office at (860) 350-6863.

TheatreWorks is an award-winning, non-Equity theatre company, named Best Community Theater in Connecticut by Connecticut Magazine. TheatreWorks is located at 5 Brookside Avenue , just off Route 202 (next to the CVS), in New Milford , CT. Parking is located behind the Catherine E. Lillis Administration Building at 50 East Street, New Milford.

PMT: WESTCHESTER TEEN IDOL: AUDITIONS

Westchester’s Teen Idol Contest Is Back! PMT Announces Competition Auditions for September. PMT Productions, a Westchester-based non-profit community theatre organization, has announced 2015 auditions for its wildly popular Westchester Teen Idol competition. Teen vocalists (between ages 13-19) are invited to join one of the county’s most exciting competitions of the last ten years. Auditions are slated for Saturday, September 19 & Sunday September 20 from 1-6 pm at the Irvington Town Hall Theatre, Main Street, Irvington, NY.

All teens in the Westchester region are invited to participate, however, those wishing to compete are required to R.S.V.P for an audition appointment by calling (914) 402-4250 and registering online at pmtproductions.org. As audition space is limited, those interested are encouraged to call and reserve an audition space as soon as possible. Each participant will also be required to pay a $40 audition fee, and be available to perform for the 2015 competition finale concert, which will take place at the Irvington Town Hall Theatre on the evening of Saturday, November 14.

HARRISON PLAYERS: AUDITIONS: MURDER A-GO-GO

Thursday, September 10 from 7:30 pm to 10:00 pm, the Harrison Players, Inc. will hold auditions for Murder A-GO-GO written by Anthony Valbiro at the Veterans’ Memorial Building at 210 Halstead Avenue, Harrison, New York 10528. For information call 914-630-1089 or e-mail harrisonplayers@yahoo.com or go to their website at www.harrisonplayers.org.

Show Date is Saturday, October 24, 2015 and will be directed by Anthony J. Valbiro. Show will be presented in Dinner Theatre format.

CALL FOR ACTORS: TUTTI BRAVI PRODUCTIONS

Tutti Bravi Productions is seeking male and female actors to perform in an original historical production SPIRITS & SOULS to be presented in New Rochelle on September 19, 2015. The production consists of a collection of monologues (similar to “Spoon River Anthology”) and features some of New Rochelle’s founding Huguenots who are buried in Trinity Cemetery. Characters range in age from 20s to 70s. If interested in auditioning, please submit a resume, photo and contact information by July 23rd to: tuttibraviproductions@gmail.com You will be notified of an audition time and place. Please come with a prepared monologue. Then you will be expected to read from the script, which will be provided.

HUDSON CHORALE: AUDITIONS

Audition for Hudson Chorale’s Sixth Season on September 14 at 6:00 pm – 7:30 pm, prior to first rehearsal of the season. Hudson Chorale is Westchester’s Largest Community Chorus
Location (Auditions and Rehearsals): Pleasantville Presbyterian Church, 400 Bedford Rd, Pleasantville. Info/Appointments: Jeanne Wyant, (914) 478-0074 or JeanneWygant@optoneline.net. Complete information regarding the chorus, Music Director/Conductor, membership, music samples, etc: www.hudsonchorale.org.

Upcoming Concerts: January 24, 2016, Cathedral Classics, featuring the Duruflé Requiem along with works by Poulenc, Ravel and Messiaen that will be performed with organ; Mendellsohn’s Elijah, on May 14, 2016 with full orchestral accompaniment. Interested singers can participate in one or both concerts.

Since 2010, Hudson Chorale, Westchester’s largest chorus, has been performing in venues throughout Westchester, bringing the best in choral singing to the Hudson Valley. The chorus now enjoys a region-wide reputation among both singers and audience members for its outstanding programming, superb artistry and interesting repertoire that ranges from the great masterpieces of the past to engaging contemporary compositions.

HUDSON CHORALE APPOINTS NEW INTERIM MUSIC DIRECTOR: IRA SPAULDING

Hudson Chorale is pleased to announce the appointment of Conductor Ira Spaulding as its new Interim Music Director. Spaulding will be replacing Music Director Michael Conley, who has accepted a post as Director of Music Ministries at Calvary Presbyterian Church in Pacific Heights, California. Conley was instrumental in bringing about the merger of the Choral Arts Society and the Westchester Concert Singers to form Hudson Chorale in 2010. Under his leadership, Hudson Chorale achieved a size and a degree of professionalism that have given it a region-wide reputation for outstanding programming and superb musicianship.

Spaulding brings an astonishing depth and breadth of training and choral experience to his new role with Hudson Chorale. Spaulding has enjoyed a multi-faceted career spanning more than 35 years: teaching at the Conservatory of Amsterdam for 20 years, performing concerts and recitals and giving master classes and choral workshops in more than 60 countries, and singing in more than 55 countries. As part of American Voices he was a soloist with orchestras in South America and Europe, and a guest choral conductor in Russia, Germany, Viet Nam, Mexico and several other countries.

When asked about his new role with the Hudson Chorale, Spaulding had this to say: “Isn’t it odd that conductors are the only musicians who can never practice alone? I am so happy, therefore, to have been asked by the Chorale to join them as Music Director, discovering new works and revisiting old favorites. I know that we will have a joyous time doing so My love of choral music is part of a triangular relationship. At one corner of the triangle is the composer, whose ideas are waiting to be heard. In another corner are the performers, the musicians who strive to understand the music and bring it to life. And in case you are wondering about the third corner of the choral music love triangle, it’s you, the public. We want to share our love of choral music with you, and I’m hoping to meet you all at our winter concert on January 24, 2016.”

WESTCHESTER BROADWAY THEATRE:THE BOB FITZSIMMONS SCHOLARSHIP AWARD: ANDREW LEONFORTE

The 2015 recipient, of the Bob Fitzsimmons Scholarship is Andrew Leonforte, a senior at Archbishop Stepinac High School in White Plains, NY. Andrew Leonforte has been an avid member of the Archbishop Stepinac Drama Club since his freshman year. Much like Bob Fitzsimmons, Andrew’s tenure in the club is marked by his zeal for all things theatre. With his roles as an Clarence, the Angel in It’s A Wonderful Life, Max Jacobs in On The 20th Century; Passarino in Phantom of the Opera, Northbrook in Mary Poppins, and Tiny Tim in A Christmas Carol: The Musical, among so many others in other local theatre companies, Andrew creates such vivid characters that long remain in the minds and hearts of audience members. But, beyond his work on the stage, Andrew is also known for his leadership role within the Stepinac theatre community. He is the one who rallies the troops! His enthusiasm for each show trickles down to every cast member. Andrew is always willing to lending a helping hand in any facet of the production and does so with great fervor and passion. So for his stellar contributions to all facets of theatre at Stepinac HS and for living his life in Bob Fitzsimmons’ tradition (giant talent with an even bigger heart), we award Andrew Leonforte the Bob Fitzsimmons Memorial Scholarship!

The Scholarship is given annually to a college-bound senior who has excelled in the theatre arts programs while attending Stepinac High School. The prestigious Arts Scholarship is named after Bob Fitzsimmons, a graduate of Stepinac High School, who died suddenly at the age of 37 in March of 1992. He was the Public Relations Director of the Westchester Broadway Theatre, as well as a gifted actor, producer, writer and a director of shows at WBT and at numerous theatres throughout the County.

The scholarship was established in his name by the owners of Westchester Broadway Theatre, Bill Stutler and Bob Funking, the entire employee staff of WBT, and the many friends and relatives of Bob Fitzsimmons. Under the auspices of WBT, Allan Gruet, (former WBT Public Relations Director, who replaced Bobby Fitzsimmons) and George Puello spearheaded two fundraisers. The first & most successful fundraiser was held at WBT, the second was held at Stepinac High School. Mr. Puello was responsible for directing & producing the entertainment portion of the events, while Mr. Gruet handled the ticketing for the fundraisers & the continuing administration of the self-sustaining scholarship. Over the years, along with the assistance of producer Bob Funking, Allan has continued to manage the scholarship, making it possible to present the award consistently each year. In recent years, Frank Portanova, Vice Principal of Stepinac High School, has been extremely helpful and cooperative, making some financial donations to the fund to help ensure the life of the scholarship. He also is responsible for selecting the student winner for this highly competitive award. Since its inception, $25,000.00 in scholarships have been awarded. Unfortunately, due to the current financial climate, the Scholarship is no longer self-sustaining and monies need to be raised to ensure the continuation of this award. The annual scholarship in Bob’s name is our collective way of keeping alive the memory of our dear friend, Bobby Fitzsimmons.

All the world's a stage