Really just wanted to wish everyone a happy Labor Day Weekend, but got a late reminder that general sale of tickets for the upcoming season at George Street Playhouse go on sale Sept. 4. In the meantime, e-club members can buy now. So sign up and get your tickets to see the Jersey premiere of "Doubt" or "The Sunshine Boys" with Jack Klugman and Paul Dooley.
I missed Klugmanthere last year but got to interview him in advance. Very sweet guy. I mentioned my dad had the same throat cancer as him and he was full of questions and sympathy. He also told me at the time his cancer had recurred elsewhere, but obviously he's coping well. And be assured, he doesn't need to work (especially at these rates), so this is about the joy of the craft.
That's a good note to wrap up a Labor Day post. Take it from me, it's great to make a living doing something you love. So if you need a lesson how, go see Jack at GSP, and keep reading Jersey Stages.
WW
Friday, August 31, 2007
Wednesday, August 29, 2007
5 audition dates
Summer's over, actors. Time to get back on the stage and strut your stuff.
Following are five audition opportunities.
As for me, I'm finishing up a big deadline today and looking forward to a three-day weekend, hopefully with three naps, two rounds of golf and at least one cold beer. I better rest up, because if I read my trusty NJ Theatre Alliance press-opening calendar (where would I be without it?) correctly, I have six plays to review in the next four weeks.
As usual, no rest for Willie.
1. The Barn Theatre, Skyline Drive, Montville, will conduct auditions 2 p.m. Sept. 8 and 7 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 9, for its production of the Rodgers and Hammerstein revue, “A Grand Night For Singing.”
Roseann Ruggiero of Ledgewood will direct, with musical direction by Clifford Parrish of Bernardsville. The directors are looking for up to six women and four men, ages 20s to 60s, with parts available for several vocal ranges.
Auditioners are asked register within the first two hours of the audition and should prepare a show tune. Bring music in your key; an accompanist will be provided. Auditioners should also be prepared to learn a dance.
Performances will take place Nov. 9 through Dec. 1. All casted actors must be available for all performances, for the evenings of the entire tech week (Nov. 4-8) and for strike day on Dec. 2. For more information, call (973) 334-9320 or visit www.barntheatre.org.
2. Can you tell a joke? That will be part of the audition for The Chester Theatre Group’s production of “A Clean House.”
Auditions will take place from 2 to 4 p.m. Sept. 9 and 7: 30 to 9:30 p.m. Sept. 11 at the Black River Playhouse, corner of Maple and Grove, Chester. Kate Lyn Reiter will direct the comedy hit by Sarah Ruhl. Auditioners also will read from the script.
Ruhl earned a Pulitzer Prize nomination in 2005 for “A Clean House,” about a depressed Brazilian woman and budding comedienne who takes a housekeeping job with for an uptight female doctor. The play is described as “A delightfully quirky comedy that compares our divergent needs for orderliness and for laughter, exploring the messiness that comes along with life, the universe and joi de vivre.”
The lead role requires an actress who can appear to be in her 20s, can learn some dialogue in Portuguese and can tell a good joke.
Performances will be weekends in November. If you would like to audition but cannot attend the audition dates, call Cindy Alexander (908) 713-6207 and the company will attempt to make other arrangements.
3. The Women’s Theater Company will conduct auditions 7 to 9 p.m. Sept. 6 for a staged reading of a new play scheduled for Sept. 25.
Nine parts are available for the reading of “Letting Go,” by Mary Lee Martin, at the Parsippany Playhouse, 1130 Knoll Road, Lake Hiawatha section. The company will follow with a full production of the play in March.
Male and female parts are available for actors ranging in age from early 30s to 60s. There also are parts for a child actor (who ages from age 6 to 8) and actress (age 12).
Those who wish to audition may simply show up. For additional information, call (973) 316-3033.
4. The County College of Morris Performing Arts Department will conduct auditions for the Disney musical, “Beauty and the Beast” 6:30 p.m. Thursday and again on Sept. 11.
Auditions will take place in the Dragonetti Auditorium, 214 Center Grove Road, Randolph. Participants should wear comfortable clothing and shoes for dancing. Music will be provided.
Performances are scheduled for Oct. 31 to Nov. 3. For more information, call (973) 328-5427.
5. The Harmonium Choral Society will conduct auditions Wednesday through Saturday for experienced choral singers interested in joining this Morristown-based group led by Artistic Director Anne Matlack.
Limited openings exist for excellent singers with good sight reading skills. The 20-minute auditions will take place at Grace Episcopal Church, Madison Avenue at Kings Road, Madison.
Harmonium presents three subscription concerts annually in the Morristown area and also participates in other events such as First Night Morris. For music educators seeking continuing education credits, Harmonium Choral Society is a registered New Jersey Professional Development Provider.
To schedule an audition appointment, call (973)-765-9028. Rehearsals will take place Sunday evenings following Labor Day and continuing through May at Grace Lutheran Church, 65 East Main St., Mendham. For more information, visit www.harmonium.org.
Following are five audition opportunities.
As for me, I'm finishing up a big deadline today and looking forward to a three-day weekend, hopefully with three naps, two rounds of golf and at least one cold beer. I better rest up, because if I read my trusty NJ Theatre Alliance press-opening calendar (where would I be without it?) correctly, I have six plays to review in the next four weeks.
As usual, no rest for Willie.
1. The Barn Theatre, Skyline Drive, Montville, will conduct auditions 2 p.m. Sept. 8 and 7 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 9, for its production of the Rodgers and Hammerstein revue, “A Grand Night For Singing.”
Roseann Ruggiero of Ledgewood will direct, with musical direction by Clifford Parrish of Bernardsville. The directors are looking for up to six women and four men, ages 20s to 60s, with parts available for several vocal ranges.
Auditioners are asked register within the first two hours of the audition and should prepare a show tune. Bring music in your key; an accompanist will be provided. Auditioners should also be prepared to learn a dance.
Performances will take place Nov. 9 through Dec. 1. All casted actors must be available for all performances, for the evenings of the entire tech week (Nov. 4-8) and for strike day on Dec. 2. For more information, call (973) 334-9320 or visit www.barntheatre.org.
2. Can you tell a joke? That will be part of the audition for The Chester Theatre Group’s production of “A Clean House.”
Auditions will take place from 2 to 4 p.m. Sept. 9 and 7: 30 to 9:30 p.m. Sept. 11 at the Black River Playhouse, corner of Maple and Grove, Chester. Kate Lyn Reiter will direct the comedy hit by Sarah Ruhl. Auditioners also will read from the script.
Ruhl earned a Pulitzer Prize nomination in 2005 for “A Clean House,” about a depressed Brazilian woman and budding comedienne who takes a housekeeping job with for an uptight female doctor. The play is described as “A delightfully quirky comedy that compares our divergent needs for orderliness and for laughter, exploring the messiness that comes along with life, the universe and joi de vivre.”
The lead role requires an actress who can appear to be in her 20s, can learn some dialogue in Portuguese and can tell a good joke.
Performances will be weekends in November. If you would like to audition but cannot attend the audition dates, call Cindy Alexander (908) 713-6207 and the company will attempt to make other arrangements.
3. The Women’s Theater Company will conduct auditions 7 to 9 p.m. Sept. 6 for a staged reading of a new play scheduled for Sept. 25.
Nine parts are available for the reading of “Letting Go,” by Mary Lee Martin, at the Parsippany Playhouse, 1130 Knoll Road, Lake Hiawatha section. The company will follow with a full production of the play in March.
Male and female parts are available for actors ranging in age from early 30s to 60s. There also are parts for a child actor (who ages from age 6 to 8) and actress (age 12).
Those who wish to audition may simply show up. For additional information, call (973) 316-3033.
4. The County College of Morris Performing Arts Department will conduct auditions for the Disney musical, “Beauty and the Beast” 6:30 p.m. Thursday and again on Sept. 11.
Auditions will take place in the Dragonetti Auditorium, 214 Center Grove Road, Randolph. Participants should wear comfortable clothing and shoes for dancing. Music will be provided.
Performances are scheduled for Oct. 31 to Nov. 3. For more information, call (973) 328-5427.
5. The Harmonium Choral Society will conduct auditions Wednesday through Saturday for experienced choral singers interested in joining this Morristown-based group led by Artistic Director Anne Matlack.
Limited openings exist for excellent singers with good sight reading skills. The 20-minute auditions will take place at Grace Episcopal Church, Madison Avenue at Kings Road, Madison.
Harmonium presents three subscription concerts annually in the Morristown area and also participates in other events such as First Night Morris. For music educators seeking continuing education credits, Harmonium Choral Society is a registered New Jersey Professional Development Provider.
To schedule an audition appointment, call (973)-765-9028. Rehearsals will take place Sunday evenings following Labor Day and continuing through May at Grace Lutheran Church, 65 East Main St., Mendham. For more information, visit www.harmonium.org.
Saturday, August 25, 2007
Lorenzo Lamas coming to NJ
Got word that former "Falcon Crest" hunk and Hollywood legacy Lorenzo Lamas is going to play the title role in "dracula" at Premiere Stages in Union. Steady ladies, and get your tickets early.
This is the sort of casting coup that could help put Premiere Stages on the map.
I've never been, but have heard some good things about the new professional theater at Kean College in Union, and they've made some interesting production choices. I just may have to put this one on the schedule.
Mrs. Willie says "aaah!"
Suddenly, I feel threatened.
Keep your fangs to yourself, there, pretty boy, or I'll critique you right in the kisser.
This is the sort of casting coup that could help put Premiere Stages on the map.
I've never been, but have heard some good things about the new professional theater at Kean College in Union, and they've made some interesting production choices. I just may have to put this one on the schedule.
Mrs. Willie says "aaah!"
Suddenly, I feel threatened.
Keep your fangs to yourself, there, pretty boy, or I'll critique you right in the kisser.
Friday, August 24, 2007
Filmmakers Symposium
I used to be quite a film buff, but these days, with seeing 40 or so plays a year, I rarely have the time or the inclination to go to the movies (or the pictures, I always loved that phrase). The only film I've seen in a theater in the last 18 months is "The Simpsons Movie," and that was because I figured it would be my only chance to see Homer in all his big-screen glory.
But for those who love a good picture show, see below regarding the FIlmmakers Symposium, which for 16 years has been sneak-previewing major films before they are officially released. Discussion follows with actors, writers and other principals of the production. I went to a few of these when Chuck Rose was first starting out, and I also know they have, at least at times, been very very popular. So if you like the idea, get your name on the list sooner than later.
Big weekend on tap as we head into the end of August, traditionally one of the slowest times for the theater beat. But I just got my calendar of premieres for the new season from the NJ Theatre Alliance, and it looks like a busy fall. So while I fill the lull with Phil Rizzuto tributes and cinema notes, you can all look forward to a lot of review previews and theater chat in the near future.
How about letting me know: What are you looking forward to seeing on Jersey Stages this fall? Jack Klugman returning to George Street Playhouse? "Blood and Roses" at the Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey?" "Happy Days" (let's hope) at Paper Mill?
Personally, I can't wait to see Fonzie bust on Potsie, then break into song. Aaaay!
CHERRY PICKING THE BEST MOVIES FROM SUNDANCE, CANNES AND TRIBECA
Imagine seeing a movie before anyone, then the lights come up, and there in front of you are the creators of the film, ready to answer questions and discuss their work. Starting September 17th, Filmmakers Symposium will run for twelve weeks in New Jersey at two theatres: AMC Loews Mountainside and AMC Loews Monmouth Mall. This series has hosted 1,198 movie premieres with 792 live guest appearances over the past sixteen years. “The program will always be flexible in order to take advantage of opportunities as they arise,” said Symposium director Chuck Rose. “Wonderful surprises and fantastic celebrities can pop up out of nowhere, so I try to keep the schedule as fluid as possible. In the past two years, we premiered 71 films that later earned a total of 18 Oscar, 16 British Academy, 18 Spirit, and 17 European Film Award nominations.” Oscar winners and nominees Danny Aiello, Alan Arkin, James Cromwell, Frank Darabont, Ethan Hawke, Jean-Pierre Jeunet, John Sayles, Marc Shaiman, Howard Shore and David Strathairn have joined Dylan Baker, Al Franken, Famke Janssen, Delroy Lindo, Derek Luke, David Morse, Viggo Mortensen, Connie Nielsen and Kevin Smith as guest speakers who have come to share their insights with Symposium participants. Rose added, “Last fall, well in advance of public release, we previewed Academy Award nominees “Pan’s Labyrinth”, “Jesus Camp” and “Little Children”, highlighted by a fascinating discussion with screenwriting nominee Tom Perrotta. For information or to register, call 1-800-531-9416 or visit www.PrivateScreenings.org The series is open to anyone, but seating is limited, so early enrollment is advised. Subscription is $166 for six weeks or $299 for twelve weeks. Discounts will be available for registrations made by September 4th. “Even before we started in 1991, I have worked to create a VIP network of filmmakers, international reporters, critics and film industry executives whose jobs involve identifying and evaluating the cream of Sundance, Cannes, Toronto, Venice, Berlin, Tribeca and the other important film festivals. We also work to ferret out potential hits in the development and production stages so we are ready to pounce on the best films first,” explained Rose. Confirmed films and those under consideration for the upcoming session include: “Charlie Wilson’s War” with Tom Hanks, Julia Roberts, director Mike Nichols; “The Diving Bell and the Butterfly” with Mathieu Amalric, Emmanuelle Seigner, director Julien Schnabel; “Elegy” with Penelope Cruz, Ben Kingsley, director Isobel Coixet; “Elizabeth: The Golden Age” with Cate Blanchett, Geoffrey Rush, director Shekhar Kapur; “Feast of Love” with Morgan Freeman, Selma Blair, director Robert Benton; “Flawless” with Michael Caine, Demi Moore, director Michael Radford; “Grace Is Gone” with John Cusack, Alessandro Nivola, director James C. Strouse; “Into the Wild” with Vince Vaughn, Emile Hirsch, director Sean Penn; “The Kite Runner” with Wali Razaqi, Shaun Taub, director Marc Forster; “Leatherheads” with George Clooney, Renee Zellweger, director George Clooney; “Lions for Lambs” with Tom Cruise , Meryl Streep, director Robert Redford; “Love in the Time of Cholera” with Javier Bardem, Benjamin Bratt, director Mike Newell; “Margot at the Wedding” with Nicole Kidman, Jack Black, director Noah Baumbach; “Mongol” with Channing Tatum, Tadanobu Asano, director Sergei Bodrov; “No Country for Old Men”; with Tommy Lee Jones, Woody Harrelson, directors Coen Brothers; “The Orphanage” with Belen Rueda, Fernando Cayo, director Juan Antonio Bayona; “The Other Boleyn Girl” with Eric Bana, Natalie Portman, director Justin Chadwick; “P.S. I Love You” with Hilary Swank, Gerard Butler, director Richard LaGravenese; “Redacted” with Kel O’Neill, Ty Jones, director Brian De Palma; “Rendition” with Reese Witherspoon, Jake Gyllenhaal, director Gavin Hood; “The Savages” with Laura Linney, Philip Seymour Hoffman, director Tamara Jenkins; “Starting Out in the Evening” with Frank Langella, Lauren Ambrose, director Andrew Wagner; “Sweeney Todd” with Johnny Depp, Helena Bonham Carter, director Tim Burton; “Terror’s Advocate” with Jacques Verges, director Barbet Schroeder; “There Will Be Blood” with Daniel Day Lewis, Paul Dano, P.T. Anderson; and “Things We Lost in the Fire” with Halle Berry, David Duchovny, directed Susanne Bier.
But for those who love a good picture show, see below regarding the FIlmmakers Symposium, which for 16 years has been sneak-previewing major films before they are officially released. Discussion follows with actors, writers and other principals of the production. I went to a few of these when Chuck Rose was first starting out, and I also know they have, at least at times, been very very popular. So if you like the idea, get your name on the list sooner than later.
Big weekend on tap as we head into the end of August, traditionally one of the slowest times for the theater beat. But I just got my calendar of premieres for the new season from the NJ Theatre Alliance, and it looks like a busy fall. So while I fill the lull with Phil Rizzuto tributes and cinema notes, you can all look forward to a lot of review previews and theater chat in the near future.
How about letting me know: What are you looking forward to seeing on Jersey Stages this fall? Jack Klugman returning to George Street Playhouse? "Blood and Roses" at the Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey?" "Happy Days" (let's hope) at Paper Mill?
Personally, I can't wait to see Fonzie bust on Potsie, then break into song. Aaaay!
CHERRY PICKING THE BEST MOVIES FROM SUNDANCE, CANNES AND TRIBECA
Imagine seeing a movie before anyone, then the lights come up, and there in front of you are the creators of the film, ready to answer questions and discuss their work. Starting September 17th, Filmmakers Symposium will run for twelve weeks in New Jersey at two theatres: AMC Loews Mountainside and AMC Loews Monmouth Mall. This series has hosted 1,198 movie premieres with 792 live guest appearances over the past sixteen years. “The program will always be flexible in order to take advantage of opportunities as they arise,” said Symposium director Chuck Rose. “Wonderful surprises and fantastic celebrities can pop up out of nowhere, so I try to keep the schedule as fluid as possible. In the past two years, we premiered 71 films that later earned a total of 18 Oscar, 16 British Academy, 18 Spirit, and 17 European Film Award nominations.” Oscar winners and nominees Danny Aiello, Alan Arkin, James Cromwell, Frank Darabont, Ethan Hawke, Jean-Pierre Jeunet, John Sayles, Marc Shaiman, Howard Shore and David Strathairn have joined Dylan Baker, Al Franken, Famke Janssen, Delroy Lindo, Derek Luke, David Morse, Viggo Mortensen, Connie Nielsen and Kevin Smith as guest speakers who have come to share their insights with Symposium participants. Rose added, “Last fall, well in advance of public release, we previewed Academy Award nominees “Pan’s Labyrinth”, “Jesus Camp” and “Little Children”, highlighted by a fascinating discussion with screenwriting nominee Tom Perrotta. For information or to register, call 1-800-531-9416 or visit www.PrivateScreenings.org The series is open to anyone, but seating is limited, so early enrollment is advised. Subscription is $166 for six weeks or $299 for twelve weeks. Discounts will be available for registrations made by September 4th. “Even before we started in 1991, I have worked to create a VIP network of filmmakers, international reporters, critics and film industry executives whose jobs involve identifying and evaluating the cream of Sundance, Cannes, Toronto, Venice, Berlin, Tribeca and the other important film festivals. We also work to ferret out potential hits in the development and production stages so we are ready to pounce on the best films first,” explained Rose. Confirmed films and those under consideration for the upcoming session include: “Charlie Wilson’s War” with Tom Hanks, Julia Roberts, director Mike Nichols; “The Diving Bell and the Butterfly” with Mathieu Amalric, Emmanuelle Seigner, director Julien Schnabel; “Elegy” with Penelope Cruz, Ben Kingsley, director Isobel Coixet; “Elizabeth: The Golden Age” with Cate Blanchett, Geoffrey Rush, director Shekhar Kapur; “Feast of Love” with Morgan Freeman, Selma Blair, director Robert Benton; “Flawless” with Michael Caine, Demi Moore, director Michael Radford; “Grace Is Gone” with John Cusack, Alessandro Nivola, director James C. Strouse; “Into the Wild” with Vince Vaughn, Emile Hirsch, director Sean Penn; “The Kite Runner” with Wali Razaqi, Shaun Taub, director Marc Forster; “Leatherheads” with George Clooney, Renee Zellweger, director George Clooney; “Lions for Lambs” with Tom Cruise , Meryl Streep, director Robert Redford; “Love in the Time of Cholera” with Javier Bardem, Benjamin Bratt, director Mike Newell; “Margot at the Wedding” with Nicole Kidman, Jack Black, director Noah Baumbach; “Mongol” with Channing Tatum, Tadanobu Asano, director Sergei Bodrov; “No Country for Old Men”; with Tommy Lee Jones, Woody Harrelson, directors Coen Brothers; “The Orphanage” with Belen Rueda, Fernando Cayo, director Juan Antonio Bayona; “The Other Boleyn Girl” with Eric Bana, Natalie Portman, director Justin Chadwick; “P.S. I Love You” with Hilary Swank, Gerard Butler, director Richard LaGravenese; “Redacted” with Kel O’Neill, Ty Jones, director Brian De Palma; “Rendition” with Reese Witherspoon, Jake Gyllenhaal, director Gavin Hood; “The Savages” with Laura Linney, Philip Seymour Hoffman, director Tamara Jenkins; “Starting Out in the Evening” with Frank Langella, Lauren Ambrose, director Andrew Wagner; “Sweeney Todd” with Johnny Depp, Helena Bonham Carter, director Tim Burton; “Terror’s Advocate” with Jacques Verges, director Barbet Schroeder; “There Will Be Blood” with Daniel Day Lewis, Paul Dano, P.T. Anderson; and “Things We Lost in the Fire” with Halle Berry, David Duchovny, directed Susanne Bier.
Wednesday, August 22, 2007
Scooter redux: Talk to me
Got some interesting feedback on my homage to the Scooter, Phil Rizzuto. Heard from an old friend and roomie, which is very cool. He remembers.
Always nice to know people are reading.
But it would be swell to get some comments from the readers hiding silently in the wings. What do you want to talk about? I feel we as a theater community are wasting an opportunity to communicate with each other and help each other. Learn from each other.
What should Jersey Stages be writing about to get a dialogue going? I was told these things are interactive. Don't get me wrong, I could write every day. Um, actually, I do.
But I want to hear from you. YOU! In the back. I can hear your lips moving. You're reading this!
Let's start with a small gesture of good faith: Tell me true, what did the Scooter mean to you?
And we'll work from there.
Always nice to know people are reading.
But it would be swell to get some comments from the readers hiding silently in the wings. What do you want to talk about? I feel we as a theater community are wasting an opportunity to communicate with each other and help each other. Learn from each other.
What should Jersey Stages be writing about to get a dialogue going? I was told these things are interactive. Don't get me wrong, I could write every day. Um, actually, I do.
But I want to hear from you. YOU! In the back. I can hear your lips moving. You're reading this!
Let's start with a small gesture of good faith: Tell me true, what did the Scooter mean to you?
And we'll work from there.
Tuesday, August 21, 2007
Homage to the Scooter
It occurs to me, not without a small measure of guilt, that I feel the passing of Phil Rizzuto more than the loss of some relatives. This, from a writer who has met and interviewed more than his share of so-called celebrities, but one who is not normally caught up in fame. In my life, I've asked for only two autographs, and one was for a friend.
But the day I first met Phil Rizzuto, I was sniveling pile of mush, ready to let him run me over in the parking lot if it would help preserve the treads on his tires.
Allow me to provide a little context. Now on cusp of age 50, I grew up in the 1960s and came of age in the 1970s. The youngest of an extended family, with older parents, I always had trouble fitting in with the clan. But one thing we all shared was a love of the Yankees. In truth, in my family, it was God, Notre Dame and the Yankees, not necessarily in that order. And the face, the voice, the heart and the soul of the Yankees, particularly following their post-dynasty era beginning in 1965, was Phil Rizzuto.
I was 8 years old in 1965, and all I knew was that the Yankees were the best team. The grown-ups knew times had changed, but I didn't. And neither did Phil. I grew older and wiser, but the Scooter continued to see his beloved Yankees through the eyes of an innocent child. And I loved him for it.
My fondest memories of childhood were of watching the Yankees, as a family, on our plastic black-and-white TV, at least when the vertical hold wasn't on the fritz. When it was, we went upstairs and listened on the radio. Back then, the three TV anchors would rotate to the radio side for three innings apiece, so Phil sometimes would come upstairs with me and keep me posted on the misadventures of Horace Clarke, Ruben Amaro and Joe Pepitone. It took a decade for the Yanks to regain their championship form, but the Scooter kept me faithful to the cause. I could no more turn my back on the Yankees and Phil Rizzuto than I could my own family.
When the game was close, and Rizzuto's buzzing baritone would soar a few octaves, my mother, bless her soul, would get so nervous, she would flee to the kitchen and ask us for updates, because she just couldn't watch. And when he would go off on one of his abstract monologues on movies, current events or the cannolis he just ate, she would laugh until she cried.
Even when I was in college, and rejecting family values for alternative points of view, I couldn't shake the Scooter. As a Rutgers student in the late 1970s, we were early participants in "The Rocky Horror Picture Show" craze, frequently attending midnight shows at the Art Cinema (since razed for an office building). So we were hip to Meatloaf and first on line when his debut album came out. To my amazement, who would be featured on "Paradise by the Dashboard Light"? Get out! Rizzuto? The poor guy, (allegedly) ignorant of the song's sexual connotations, had gone hip without even knowing it. Holy Cow.
Later in life, in a previous career as a salesman at Crazy Eddie's in Union, I got to meet Rizzuto, who shopped there many times, always with his beloved Cora at his side. He was shy and gracious, and bought whatever she liked.
Still later in life, while working in Springfield, I ran into him several times at Stanley's Diner (since razed for a Rite Aid). I greeted him each time, stuck out my hand and he always accepted it with genuine appreciation. Again, always with Cora at his side.
So, while there is some guilt, I don't apologize for loving the man, because he was as lovable as any man who ever walked the earth.
Just ask Cora. Or my mother, may she rest in peace.
Forgive me for getting off topic. But there's no point in being a writer if I let milestones such as the passing of Phil Rizzuto pass silently. And when they finally get around to conducting a public memorial, you will find me among the faithful, wearing a Yankee jersey and a smile.
But the day I first met Phil Rizzuto, I was sniveling pile of mush, ready to let him run me over in the parking lot if it would help preserve the treads on his tires.
Allow me to provide a little context. Now on cusp of age 50, I grew up in the 1960s and came of age in the 1970s. The youngest of an extended family, with older parents, I always had trouble fitting in with the clan. But one thing we all shared was a love of the Yankees. In truth, in my family, it was God, Notre Dame and the Yankees, not necessarily in that order. And the face, the voice, the heart and the soul of the Yankees, particularly following their post-dynasty era beginning in 1965, was Phil Rizzuto.
I was 8 years old in 1965, and all I knew was that the Yankees were the best team. The grown-ups knew times had changed, but I didn't. And neither did Phil. I grew older and wiser, but the Scooter continued to see his beloved Yankees through the eyes of an innocent child. And I loved him for it.
My fondest memories of childhood were of watching the Yankees, as a family, on our plastic black-and-white TV, at least when the vertical hold wasn't on the fritz. When it was, we went upstairs and listened on the radio. Back then, the three TV anchors would rotate to the radio side for three innings apiece, so Phil sometimes would come upstairs with me and keep me posted on the misadventures of Horace Clarke, Ruben Amaro and Joe Pepitone. It took a decade for the Yanks to regain their championship form, but the Scooter kept me faithful to the cause. I could no more turn my back on the Yankees and Phil Rizzuto than I could my own family.
When the game was close, and Rizzuto's buzzing baritone would soar a few octaves, my mother, bless her soul, would get so nervous, she would flee to the kitchen and ask us for updates, because she just couldn't watch. And when he would go off on one of his abstract monologues on movies, current events or the cannolis he just ate, she would laugh until she cried.
Even when I was in college, and rejecting family values for alternative points of view, I couldn't shake the Scooter. As a Rutgers student in the late 1970s, we were early participants in "The Rocky Horror Picture Show" craze, frequently attending midnight shows at the Art Cinema (since razed for an office building). So we were hip to Meatloaf and first on line when his debut album came out. To my amazement, who would be featured on "Paradise by the Dashboard Light"? Get out! Rizzuto? The poor guy, (allegedly) ignorant of the song's sexual connotations, had gone hip without even knowing it. Holy Cow.
Later in life, in a previous career as a salesman at Crazy Eddie's in Union, I got to meet Rizzuto, who shopped there many times, always with his beloved Cora at his side. He was shy and gracious, and bought whatever she liked.
Still later in life, while working in Springfield, I ran into him several times at Stanley's Diner (since razed for a Rite Aid). I greeted him each time, stuck out my hand and he always accepted it with genuine appreciation. Again, always with Cora at his side.
So, while there is some guilt, I don't apologize for loving the man, because he was as lovable as any man who ever walked the earth.
Just ask Cora. Or my mother, may she rest in peace.
Forgive me for getting off topic. But there's no point in being a writer if I let milestones such as the passing of Phil Rizzuto pass silently. And when they finally get around to conducting a public memorial, you will find me among the faithful, wearing a Yankee jersey and a smile.
Friday, August 17, 2007
Review Preview: The Bald Soprano
A thousand apologies for not posting this Review Preview sooner.
As it turned out, the Courier held the review until next week, while the Daily Record publshed it today. So while it may be old news for some, it still qualifies as a Review Preview.
By the way, I'll break form over the weekend and post a tribute to one of my heroes, Phil Rizzuto. Until then, let's play on:
"THE BALD SOPRANO"
Tuesdays-Sundays
Through Aug. 26
F.M. Kirby Shakespeare Theatre
Drew University
36 Madison Ave. (Route 124),
Madison
Tickets are $28 to $52
Call (973) 408-5600
www.shkespearenj.org
"Realism ... falls short of reality. ... Truth is in our dreams, in the imagination."
So said Romanian-born playwright Eugene Ionesco, a leading proponent of the Theatre of the Absurd movement in the 1950s. Certainly, there is absurdity and imagination throughout "The Bald Soprano," in revival at the Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey.
There's a certain absurdity to the English language as well, with so many different meanings for so many words. Right? So it's no wonder that Ionesco experienced a certain measure of frustration while learning the language. As the legend goes, the stiff and useless phases in his English textbook inspired him to write his first play, "The Bald Soprano," which fuels a ridiculous story with a seemingly endless stream of non sequiturs and banalities.
Sitcom fun
In the wrong hands, material like this could be crushed by the weight of its own pretensions. But, as it did in 2000 with another Ionesco gem, "Rhinoceros," the Shakespeare Theatre turns it into a sitcom that plays like "Seinfeld" meets "Monty Python's Flying Circus." Even better, it's funny enough that you don't have to get it to have a good time. For those who don't, the lesson wraps up in less than 90 minutes, possibly the shortest running time this theater has seen in decades.
Director Matthew Arbour (last year's "The Rivals") and set designer Mimi Lien deliver cast and set to the stage in a wooden, industrial crate, large enough to contain the living room of Mr. and Mrs. Smith (company newcomers Matthew Floyd Miller and Kelly McAndrew). Basking in the comfort of their suburban London home, the Mrs. darns socks and prattles on about dinner ("potatoes taste good fried in fat;" "perhaps the soup was too salty"), while the Mr. buries his head in the newspaper.
When Mr. Smith finally joins the conversations, the banalities gradually turn more abstract, as facts are presented, contradicted and forgotten. Ionesco's making a point that people reach the stage where they don't listen to each other, and sometimes not even to themselves, and what they say sometimes does little more than fill the void of silence in our lives.
Their pushy maid (Angela Pierce) has her own agenda, but she doesn't make much sense, either. Another couple (Greg Jackson and Mary Bacon), invited (or were they?) to dinner, is left alone long enough to explore their relationship, the details of which seem to have eluded them. The arrival of the fire chief, seemingly on a random search for fires to extinguish, stokes the absurdity.
Even at 75 minutes, Ionesco's English lesson goes on too long. Following a climax of twisted clichés, a coda brings us full circle, repeating several minutes of dialogue when a few lines would suffice. But the actors are having so much fun, you'll root for an encore.
Miller and McAndrew have perfected the plastic smiles their characters use like a crutch, a nonverbal signal that all is well, even as their conversation spins out of control. Miller also has fun with a nervous tick he experiences each time the clock chimes, which is often, ringing at random intervals like a slow Morse code.
Jackie caricature
Bacon, who debuted here last year in "The Rivals," dresses and acts like a Jackie Kennedy caricature, although her pink outfit is more English tweed than French Chanel.
Jackson, though, steals the show as her husband, nervously trying to remain composed and polite while confusion swirls around his head. Following his hilarious performance earlier in the season on this stage in "The Play's the Thing," Jackson's enjoying the finest of his 10 seasons with the company.
Walker and Pierce also delighted the audience with their eccentricities. Pierce's pitched squeal as she segues from laughter to tears is priceless.
Although it was skipped on opening night, a post-performance discussion with the cast is part of "The Bald Soprano" package. It should be fun to hear these fine performers speak English after an hour or so of speaking Ionesco.
As it turned out, the Courier held the review until next week, while the Daily Record publshed it today. So while it may be old news for some, it still qualifies as a Review Preview.
By the way, I'll break form over the weekend and post a tribute to one of my heroes, Phil Rizzuto. Until then, let's play on:
"THE BALD SOPRANO"
Tuesdays-Sundays
Through Aug. 26
F.M. Kirby Shakespeare Theatre
Drew University
36 Madison Ave. (Route 124),
Madison
Tickets are $28 to $52
Call (973) 408-5600
www.shkespearenj.org
"Realism ... falls short of reality. ... Truth is in our dreams, in the imagination."
So said Romanian-born playwright Eugene Ionesco, a leading proponent of the Theatre of the Absurd movement in the 1950s. Certainly, there is absurdity and imagination throughout "The Bald Soprano," in revival at the Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey.
There's a certain absurdity to the English language as well, with so many different meanings for so many words. Right? So it's no wonder that Ionesco experienced a certain measure of frustration while learning the language. As the legend goes, the stiff and useless phases in his English textbook inspired him to write his first play, "The Bald Soprano," which fuels a ridiculous story with a seemingly endless stream of non sequiturs and banalities.
Sitcom fun
In the wrong hands, material like this could be crushed by the weight of its own pretensions. But, as it did in 2000 with another Ionesco gem, "Rhinoceros," the Shakespeare Theatre turns it into a sitcom that plays like "Seinfeld" meets "Monty Python's Flying Circus." Even better, it's funny enough that you don't have to get it to have a good time. For those who don't, the lesson wraps up in less than 90 minutes, possibly the shortest running time this theater has seen in decades.
Director Matthew Arbour (last year's "The Rivals") and set designer Mimi Lien deliver cast and set to the stage in a wooden, industrial crate, large enough to contain the living room of Mr. and Mrs. Smith (company newcomers Matthew Floyd Miller and Kelly McAndrew). Basking in the comfort of their suburban London home, the Mrs. darns socks and prattles on about dinner ("potatoes taste good fried in fat;" "perhaps the soup was too salty"), while the Mr. buries his head in the newspaper.
When Mr. Smith finally joins the conversations, the banalities gradually turn more abstract, as facts are presented, contradicted and forgotten. Ionesco's making a point that people reach the stage where they don't listen to each other, and sometimes not even to themselves, and what they say sometimes does little more than fill the void of silence in our lives.
Their pushy maid (Angela Pierce) has her own agenda, but she doesn't make much sense, either. Another couple (Greg Jackson and Mary Bacon), invited (or were they?) to dinner, is left alone long enough to explore their relationship, the details of which seem to have eluded them. The arrival of the fire chief, seemingly on a random search for fires to extinguish, stokes the absurdity.
Even at 75 minutes, Ionesco's English lesson goes on too long. Following a climax of twisted clichés, a coda brings us full circle, repeating several minutes of dialogue when a few lines would suffice. But the actors are having so much fun, you'll root for an encore.
Miller and McAndrew have perfected the plastic smiles their characters use like a crutch, a nonverbal signal that all is well, even as their conversation spins out of control. Miller also has fun with a nervous tick he experiences each time the clock chimes, which is often, ringing at random intervals like a slow Morse code.
Jackie caricature
Bacon, who debuted here last year in "The Rivals," dresses and acts like a Jackie Kennedy caricature, although her pink outfit is more English tweed than French Chanel.
Jackson, though, steals the show as her husband, nervously trying to remain composed and polite while confusion swirls around his head. Following his hilarious performance earlier in the season on this stage in "The Play's the Thing," Jackson's enjoying the finest of his 10 seasons with the company.
Walker and Pierce also delighted the audience with their eccentricities. Pierce's pitched squeal as she segues from laughter to tears is priceless.
Although it was skipped on opening night, a post-performance discussion with the cast is part of "The Bald Soprano" package. It should be fun to hear these fine performers speak English after an hour or so of speaking Ionesco.
Tuesday, August 14, 2007
Womens Theatre Co. update: Men allowed
Spoke to Barbara Krajkoswki, as promised, regarding the inclusion of plays written by men in her upcoming season at the Womens Theater Company. We spotted that earlier in the week and posted some inquiries.
The lady is on vacation out of state and she still finds time to return her e-mails. Gotta love that.
Anyway, following is an excerpt from a column I'm wokring on, which should clarify things a bit.
The Women’s Theater Company has detoured slightly from its artistic course to set a new direction for its 15th season.
Now comfortably in residence at the Parsippany Community Center, founder, artistic director and Parsippany resident Barbara Krajkowski last week announced her professional theater company’s 2007-08 season.
The season begins Oct. 19 with a revival of the Broadway hit, “Frankie and Johnny at the Clare de Lune,” by Terrence McNally. The production continues through Nov. 4 with Friday and Saturday performances at 8 p.m. and Sunday matinees at 2 p.m. “Letting Go,” a new play by New Jersey playwright Marylee Delaney, continues the season March 7 to 23.
The season will conclude in grand style with “Souvenir” (May 16 to June 1), which earned raves in New York in 2005 and also was a hit last season at George Street Playhouse in New Brunswick. Stephen Temperley’s outrageous “musical” is a hilarious tribute to Florence Foster Jenkins, a widowed society matron who followed her dreams all the way to Carnegie Hall in 1944. Her out-of-tune, but passionately sung renditions of classical repertoire were the stuff of legend, earning her both sold-out recitals and the title of “the worst singer who ever lived.” Told through the memories of her pianist, this charming comedy also has a heart.
Sounds perfect for the Women’s Theater Company, except in previous seasons, Krajkowski has devoted her main stage to the works of female playwrights, which are undeniably underserved in the theatrical community. McNally’s “Frankie and Johnnie” is another celebrated work, but, like “Souveneir,” written by a man.
"Why two plays written by men?” Krajkowski said. “My mission statement has always said that the company would offer a place for women theater artists to practice and hone their craft. We will still do that. Though I will pick pieces that are still relevant for women and their relationships to men, I chose to start opening my events for male writers to experience their relationships to women.”
The new perspective will certainly give Krajkowski and her company plenty of options.
“I will try to choose plays with strong women roles and strong male female relationships,” she said. “I will also produce one original play a year written by a woman. ‘Letting Go’ will be that play … This is an updated production of a play originally developed at the Womens Theater Company.”
Tickets are $15 for plays and $20 for musicals, with discounts for seniors and groups. The Parsippany Community Center is at 1130 Knoll road in the Lake Hiawatha section of Parsippany. For more information, call the box office at (973) 316-3033.
The lady is on vacation out of state and she still finds time to return her e-mails. Gotta love that.
Anyway, following is an excerpt from a column I'm wokring on, which should clarify things a bit.
The Women’s Theater Company has detoured slightly from its artistic course to set a new direction for its 15th season.
Now comfortably in residence at the Parsippany Community Center, founder, artistic director and Parsippany resident Barbara Krajkowski last week announced her professional theater company’s 2007-08 season.
The season begins Oct. 19 with a revival of the Broadway hit, “Frankie and Johnny at the Clare de Lune,” by Terrence McNally. The production continues through Nov. 4 with Friday and Saturday performances at 8 p.m. and Sunday matinees at 2 p.m. “Letting Go,” a new play by New Jersey playwright Marylee Delaney, continues the season March 7 to 23.
The season will conclude in grand style with “Souvenir” (May 16 to June 1), which earned raves in New York in 2005 and also was a hit last season at George Street Playhouse in New Brunswick. Stephen Temperley’s outrageous “musical” is a hilarious tribute to Florence Foster Jenkins, a widowed society matron who followed her dreams all the way to Carnegie Hall in 1944. Her out-of-tune, but passionately sung renditions of classical repertoire were the stuff of legend, earning her both sold-out recitals and the title of “the worst singer who ever lived.” Told through the memories of her pianist, this charming comedy also has a heart.
Sounds perfect for the Women’s Theater Company, except in previous seasons, Krajkowski has devoted her main stage to the works of female playwrights, which are undeniably underserved in the theatrical community. McNally’s “Frankie and Johnnie” is another celebrated work, but, like “Souveneir,” written by a man.
"Why two plays written by men?” Krajkowski said. “My mission statement has always said that the company would offer a place for women theater artists to practice and hone their craft. We will still do that. Though I will pick pieces that are still relevant for women and their relationships to men, I chose to start opening my events for male writers to experience their relationships to women.”
The new perspective will certainly give Krajkowski and her company plenty of options.
“I will try to choose plays with strong women roles and strong male female relationships,” she said. “I will also produce one original play a year written by a woman. ‘Letting Go’ will be that play … This is an updated production of a play originally developed at the Womens Theater Company.”
Tickets are $15 for plays and $20 for musicals, with discounts for seniors and groups. The Parsippany Community Center is at 1130 Knoll road in the Lake Hiawatha section of Parsippany. For more information, call the box office at (973) 316-3033.
Monday, August 13, 2007
Scrooge and Shakespeare: Perfect together
See below for details of a revision to the 2007 season at the Shakespeare Theatre of NJ.
To my knowledge, they've never done "A Christmas Carol" (of course, until recent years, they were dark in the winter). They are staging the East Coast premiere of Neil Bartlett's adaptation, which relies exclusively on Dickens' original words and is structured for an ensemble cast of seven.
Tri-State Actors Theatre in Sussex has been doing a similar adaptation for a few years, so I'm not sure how original it will be. But with Bonnie Monte directing, it should be a winner.
Read on for the details.
The Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey to present the American East Coast premiere of an exciting new adaptation of
A Christmas Carol
A Christmas Carol replaces previously announced production of The Blue Bird
Madison, NJ – The Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey announced today it would replace its previously announced holiday production of The Blue Bird with the American East Coast premiere of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol adapted by British playwright Neil Bartlett. The Shakespeare Theatre’s Artistic Director Bonnie J. Monte will direct. This innovative and exciting production will begin preview performances on November 27th, open on December 1 and continue through December 31. Performances are Tuesday through Sundays at The Shakespeare Theatre’s Main Stage – the F.M. Kirby Shakespeare Theatre in Madison. This will be only the third time this version has been produced in the United States and the first production of it east of the Mississippi. From now through October 15, tickets are available to subscribers or to those purchasing a Fall 3-play discount Ticket Package, which offers guaranteed seats to the three plays of the Fall season: William Saroyan’s The Time of Your Life, Shakespeare’s Henry VI: Blood & Roses adapted by Brian B. Crowe and Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol adapted by Neil Bartlett. Fall three-play discount Ticket Packages range from $72 to $132. Full-priced single tickets will go on sale on October 15. Regular ticket prices are $28-$52. For tickets or more information, call 973-408-5600 or visit www.ShakespeareNJ.org.
Bonnie J. Monte, artistic director of The Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey, also announced today that one of the Theatre’s most prestigious talents, and audience favorite Sherman Howard, will be playing the role of Ebenezer Scrooge. Howard has received critical acclaim for his work in The Shakespeare Theatre productions of Enrico IV, Much Ado About Nothing, Life of Galileo and The Cherry Orchard. His prestigious list of credits spans film, television and Broadway including his most recent appearance in Inherit the Wind.
Joining Howard on stage are seven actors who portray more than 50 unusual “characters” including those we have come to know and expect. “I recently came across this theatrical adaption and it took my breath away and made my director’s pulse quicken,” said Artistic Director Bonnie J. Monte. “Bartlett’s aesthetic and approach feels very akin to my own. His innovate take on A Christmas Carol features an incredible aural landscape of actor-generated sound and song, and provides a fantastic opportunity for families and people of all ages to experience this classic tale in a whole new way. When I realized we had the opportunity to be the first company on the East Coast to premiere the play, I made the decision to postpone our production of The Blue Bird in order to have the honor of premiering one of the world’s most beloved holiday tales in a style and vision that exemplifies our brand of artistry and artists.”
About the Adaptor
Adaptor Neil Bartlett is a famed British playwright, award-winning novelist, Olivier Award-nominated director and the former artistic director of the Lyric Theatre, Hammersmith in London. He is the author of the novel The House on Brooke Street and has published adaptations of The Misanthrope, The School for Wives, and Oliver Twist, which received rave reviews in its American premiere in Boston, New York and San Francisco this spring. Bartlett’s A Christmas Carol was originally created for the Lyric Theatre, Hammersmith, and contains only Dickens’ own words. “I wanted to do it using Dickens’ words, and nothing but,” wrote Bartlett. “Dickens himself prompted this decision; after all, he wrote the story not just to be read, but to be read out loud, for an audience. His words don’t describe; they enact.” In addition, Bartlett has included spoken and sung Victorian carols delivered a capella throughout the play.
About his production of A Christmas Carol at the Lyric Theatre, Hammersmith, The Guardian wrote, “This is one of those rare and festive offerings for which no adult will need the excuse of a child in tow to book a ticket.”
Tickets & General Information
Tickets for A Christmas Carol may now be purchased as part of a Fall 3-Play discount Ticket Package. Three-Play discount Ticket Packages range from $72-$132 and include William Saroyan’s American classic The Time of Your Life (September 4 – 30); Shakespeare’s Henry VI: Blood & Roses adapted by Brian B. Crowe (October 9 – November 11) and Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol, adapted by Neil Bartlett (November 27 – December 31). Discount Ticket packages offer 15% off regular ticket prices. Full-price single tickets for A Christmas Carol will go on sale on October 15. For more information or to purchase tickets, call 973-408-5600 or visit www.ShakespeareNJ.org.
The Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey’s Main Stage, the 308-seat F.M. Kirby Shakespeare Theatre, is conveniently located in Madison at 36 Madison Avenue (Route 124) at Lancaster Road (on the Drew University campus), just minutes from routes 287, 78 and 10. Parking is free. The F.M. Kirby Shakespeare Theatre is barrier free with access into the theatre via a ramp and elevator access to all floors. Wheelchair seating and transfer seating is available. Braille and large print programs are available. Infrared listening devices are available free of charge. Some performances are audio described, captioned and sign-language interpreted. Contact the theatre for more information. For more information, or to purchase tickets, call 973-408-5600 or visit www.ShakespeareNJ.org.
To my knowledge, they've never done "A Christmas Carol" (of course, until recent years, they were dark in the winter). They are staging the East Coast premiere of Neil Bartlett's adaptation, which relies exclusively on Dickens' original words and is structured for an ensemble cast of seven.
Tri-State Actors Theatre in Sussex has been doing a similar adaptation for a few years, so I'm not sure how original it will be. But with Bonnie Monte directing, it should be a winner.
Read on for the details.
The Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey to present the American East Coast premiere of an exciting new adaptation of
A Christmas Carol
A Christmas Carol replaces previously announced production of The Blue Bird
Madison, NJ – The Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey announced today it would replace its previously announced holiday production of The Blue Bird with the American East Coast premiere of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol adapted by British playwright Neil Bartlett. The Shakespeare Theatre’s Artistic Director Bonnie J. Monte will direct. This innovative and exciting production will begin preview performances on November 27th, open on December 1 and continue through December 31. Performances are Tuesday through Sundays at The Shakespeare Theatre’s Main Stage – the F.M. Kirby Shakespeare Theatre in Madison. This will be only the third time this version has been produced in the United States and the first production of it east of the Mississippi. From now through October 15, tickets are available to subscribers or to those purchasing a Fall 3-play discount Ticket Package, which offers guaranteed seats to the three plays of the Fall season: William Saroyan’s The Time of Your Life, Shakespeare’s Henry VI: Blood & Roses adapted by Brian B. Crowe and Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol adapted by Neil Bartlett. Fall three-play discount Ticket Packages range from $72 to $132. Full-priced single tickets will go on sale on October 15. Regular ticket prices are $28-$52. For tickets or more information, call 973-408-5600 or visit www.ShakespeareNJ.org.
Bonnie J. Monte, artistic director of The Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey, also announced today that one of the Theatre’s most prestigious talents, and audience favorite Sherman Howard, will be playing the role of Ebenezer Scrooge. Howard has received critical acclaim for his work in The Shakespeare Theatre productions of Enrico IV, Much Ado About Nothing, Life of Galileo and The Cherry Orchard. His prestigious list of credits spans film, television and Broadway including his most recent appearance in Inherit the Wind.
Joining Howard on stage are seven actors who portray more than 50 unusual “characters” including those we have come to know and expect. “I recently came across this theatrical adaption and it took my breath away and made my director’s pulse quicken,” said Artistic Director Bonnie J. Monte. “Bartlett’s aesthetic and approach feels very akin to my own. His innovate take on A Christmas Carol features an incredible aural landscape of actor-generated sound and song, and provides a fantastic opportunity for families and people of all ages to experience this classic tale in a whole new way. When I realized we had the opportunity to be the first company on the East Coast to premiere the play, I made the decision to postpone our production of The Blue Bird in order to have the honor of premiering one of the world’s most beloved holiday tales in a style and vision that exemplifies our brand of artistry and artists.”
About the Adaptor
Adaptor Neil Bartlett is a famed British playwright, award-winning novelist, Olivier Award-nominated director and the former artistic director of the Lyric Theatre, Hammersmith in London. He is the author of the novel The House on Brooke Street and has published adaptations of The Misanthrope, The School for Wives, and Oliver Twist, which received rave reviews in its American premiere in Boston, New York and San Francisco this spring. Bartlett’s A Christmas Carol was originally created for the Lyric Theatre, Hammersmith, and contains only Dickens’ own words. “I wanted to do it using Dickens’ words, and nothing but,” wrote Bartlett. “Dickens himself prompted this decision; after all, he wrote the story not just to be read, but to be read out loud, for an audience. His words don’t describe; they enact.” In addition, Bartlett has included spoken and sung Victorian carols delivered a capella throughout the play.
About his production of A Christmas Carol at the Lyric Theatre, Hammersmith, The Guardian wrote, “This is one of those rare and festive offerings for which no adult will need the excuse of a child in tow to book a ticket.”
Tickets & General Information
Tickets for A Christmas Carol may now be purchased as part of a Fall 3-Play discount Ticket Package. Three-Play discount Ticket Packages range from $72-$132 and include William Saroyan’s American classic The Time of Your Life (September 4 – 30); Shakespeare’s Henry VI: Blood & Roses adapted by Brian B. Crowe (October 9 – November 11) and Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol, adapted by Neil Bartlett (November 27 – December 31). Discount Ticket packages offer 15% off regular ticket prices. Full-price single tickets for A Christmas Carol will go on sale on October 15. For more information or to purchase tickets, call 973-408-5600 or visit www.ShakespeareNJ.org.
The Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey’s Main Stage, the 308-seat F.M. Kirby Shakespeare Theatre, is conveniently located in Madison at 36 Madison Avenue (Route 124) at Lancaster Road (on the Drew University campus), just minutes from routes 287, 78 and 10. Parking is free. The F.M. Kirby Shakespeare Theatre is barrier free with access into the theatre via a ramp and elevator access to all floors. Wheelchair seating and transfer seating is available. Braille and large print programs are available. Infrared listening devices are available free of charge. Some performances are audio described, captioned and sign-language interpreted. Contact the theatre for more information. For more information, or to purchase tickets, call 973-408-5600 or visit www.ShakespeareNJ.org.
Friday, August 10, 2007
Restored Capra film at the Palace
See the following release for something different on a Jersey Stage - the world premeire of a restored Frank Capra film, "Rain or Shine," at the historic Palace Theatre on the shores of Lake Muscontcong, home of the Growing Stage, the children's Theatre of New Jersey.
A good chance to visit a cool old theater and be a part of a cool event--the movie hasn't been on a big screen in 70 years.
Also a good chance to finally use the image feature on this blog. Thought you guys deserved an upgrade.
Off to the Shakespeare Theatre of NJ tomorrow for the opening of "The Bald Soprano." Something different this time--they've added the occasional post-show discussion with cast to the program at every performance, which promises to be 90 minutes, no intermission. Mrs. Willie will be leased. She loves the short ones.
She's gonna hate "Blood and Roses." But I promise to be my usual objective self.
Read on, moving picture fans. I'll be back with a Review Preview hopefully by Sunday night.
8/10/07
For Immediate Release
Restored Capra Movie to Premiere at Netcong’s Palace Theatre - Home of The Growing Stage Theatre – The Children’s Theatre of New Jersey
Netcong, NJ -- A world premiere in Netcong, New Jersey! Well almost – an early Frank Capra movie not seen on the big screen for over 70 years has been restored and will debut on September 15, 2007 at Netcong’s Palace Theatre. Thanks to a collaboration of The Growing Stage Theatre – The Children’s Theatre of New Jersey and the Lake Hopatcong Historical Museum, arrangements have been made with Sony Pictures for the September 15th premiere of Rain or Shine.
Rain or Shine was originally released in August 1930, just two years after the introduction of sound into movies. It starred Joe Cook, one of the leading comedians of the day, and his sidekick Dave Chasen, as well as Tom Howard and Joan Peers. Rain or Shine had been a successful Broadway musical when a young Frank Capra decided to adapt it to the silver screen as a non-musical.
Originally released by Columbia Pictures, the film was a vehicle for Joe Cook to show off his many talents. Completely restored by Sony Pictures, the film is now considered important as an example of Frank Capra’s work prior to his success as director of such hit movies as It Happened One Night, Mr. Deeds Goes to Town, Mr. Smith Goes to Washington, Meet John Doe and It's a Wonderful Life.
Why Netcong? Joe Cook formerly lived at Lake Hopatcong - just a few miles from the theater. He is considered one of the lake’s most famous residents, having lived there full time for almost two decades. In fact, he entertained most of the cast of Rain or Shine at his lake house known as "Sleepless Hollow." Originally finding fame as a vaudeville performer, Cook became one of Broadway’s leading stars in the 1920s and 1930s and starred in the Broadway production of Rain or Shine.
The premiere is a collaboration of the Lake Hopatcong Historical Museum and The Growing Stage Theatre, which makes its home at and operates the Palace Theatre. Built in 1919, the Palace was an entertainment landmark for over 50 years in the communities of northwest New Jersey. Commencing as a silent movie and vaudeville house, it later featured talking movies, local high school plays and graduations, minstrel shows and other live entertainment. It is the perfect venue in which to show the film – 77 years after its original premiere.
Tickets are $10 and can be obtained through the Lake Hopatcong Historical Museum at 973-398-2616 or at LHHISTORY@ATT.NET.
#
Cut line
A scene from Rain or Shine shows Joe Cook balancing on a ball in a circus trick as Dave Chasen (far left) and Joan Peers watch anxiously. The musician on the far right is unknown
Netcong, NJ -- A world premiere in Netcong, New Jersey! Well almost – an early Frank Capra movie not seen on the big screen for over 70 years has been restored and will debut on September 15, 2007 at Netcong’s Palace Theatre. Thanks to a collaboration of The Growing Stage Theatre – The Children’s Theatre of New Jersey and the Lake Hopatcong Historical Museum, arrangements have been made with Sony Pictures for the September 15th premiere of Rain or Shine.
Rain or Shine was originally released in August 1930, just two years after the introduction of sound into movies. It starred Joe Cook, one of the leading comedians of the day, and his sidekick Dave Chasen, as well as Tom Howard and Joan Peers. Rain or Shine had been a successful Broadway musical when a young Frank Capra decided to adapt it to the silver screen as a non-musical.
Originally released by Columbia Pictures, the film was a vehicle for Joe Cook to show off his many talents. Completely restored by Sony Pictures, the film is now considered important as an example of Frank Capra’s work prior to his success as director of such hit movies as It Happened One Night, Mr. Deeds Goes to Town, Mr. Smith Goes to Washington, Meet John Doe and It's a Wonderful Life.
Why Netcong? Joe Cook formerly lived at Lake Hopatcong - just a few miles from the theater. He is considered one of the lake’s most famous residents, having lived there full time for almost two decades. In fact, he entertained most of the cast of Rain or Shine at his lake house known as "Sleepless Hollow." Originally finding fame as a vaudeville performer, Cook became one of Broadway’s leading stars in the 1920s and 1930s and starred in the Broadway production of Rain or Shine.
The premiere is a collaboration of the Lake Hopatcong Historical Museum and The Growing Stage Theatre, which makes its home at and operates the Palace Theatre. Built in 1919, the Palace was an entertainment landmark for over 50 years in the communities of northwest New Jersey. Commencing as a silent movie and vaudeville house, it later featured talking movies, local high school plays and graduations, minstrel shows and other live entertainment. It is the perfect venue in which to show the film – 77 years after its original premiere.
Tickets are $10 and can be obtained through the Lake Hopatcong Historical Museum at 973-398-2616 or at LHHISTORY@ATT.NET.
#
Cut line
A scene from Rain or Shine shows Joe Cook balancing on a ball in a circus trick as Dave Chasen (far left) and Joan Peers watch anxiously. The musician on the far right is unknown
Wednesday, August 8, 2007
"Frankie & Johnnie" opens season at Womens Theater Co.
See below for the details of the new season for the Womens Theater Company, now in its third season at the Parsippany Community Center.
For those who don't know, founder, artistic director and fellow Parsippany resident Barbara Krajkowski has built a company that is dedicated to the works of female playwrights, which, when you think of it, don't get a lot of consideration. Strange to think that such an "enlightened" and progressive industry would have a bias to women, but do the math an and argument is there. Certainly, there could be many more such-minded companies and a gap might still exist, so bravo to Barbara--you go, girl.
Only one problem--Souveneirs was written by a man. I'll have to check into that. Perhaps she couldn't resist reviving such a plumb part for a talented female singer and comedienne. Maybe she has someone in mind ... hmmm. who does she know? Perhaps someone in the family?
Gotta stop myself, this is how rumors get started.
But I will follow up on this, don't you worry about that.
Always makes me think of Bonnie Monte's line, to parpahrase, we "usually do dead white guys."
Anywa, looks like an interesting set of choices and, if you haven't been there, the space is intimate and very close to the audience. And the tickets are cheap ($20 top last year, if I recall), so give her a look-see. You'll be glad you did.
The Women’s Theater Company
P.O. Box 5924
Parsippany, NJ 07054
973 316-3033
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Women’s Theater Company Announces New Season
Parsippany,NJ, August 8, 2007
The Women’s Theater Company, now in residence at the Parsippany Community Center, announces its 2007 -2008 season of plays. The first production is the Broadway hit play, Frankie and Johnny at the Clare de Lune, by Terrence McNally. It opens on Friday, October 19 and runs through November 4, at the Center, 1130 Knoll Road, Lake Hiawatha, playing Fridays and Saturdays at 8 pm and Sundays at 2 pm.
Letting Go, a new play by New Jersey playwright, Marylee Delaney, opens on March 7 and will play through March 23, 2008.
On May 16, Souvenir, by Stephen Temperley opens for a run through June 1, 2008. Souvenir received excellent revues during its New York run this past season. The Women’s Theater Company, now in its 15th year, is an Actors Equity company and a member of the New Jersey Theater Alliance. Ticket prices are $15 for plays and $20 for musicals. There is a discount for Senior Citizens and for groups.
For further information regarding group sales, benefits and reservations please call the box office, 973 316-3033.
For those who don't know, founder, artistic director and fellow Parsippany resident Barbara Krajkowski has built a company that is dedicated to the works of female playwrights, which, when you think of it, don't get a lot of consideration. Strange to think that such an "enlightened" and progressive industry would have a bias to women, but do the math an and argument is there. Certainly, there could be many more such-minded companies and a gap might still exist, so bravo to Barbara--you go, girl.
Only one problem--Souveneirs was written by a man. I'll have to check into that. Perhaps she couldn't resist reviving such a plumb part for a talented female singer and comedienne. Maybe she has someone in mind ... hmmm. who does she know? Perhaps someone in the family?
Gotta stop myself, this is how rumors get started.
But I will follow up on this, don't you worry about that.
Always makes me think of Bonnie Monte's line, to parpahrase, we "usually do dead white guys."
Anywa, looks like an interesting set of choices and, if you haven't been there, the space is intimate and very close to the audience. And the tickets are cheap ($20 top last year, if I recall), so give her a look-see. You'll be glad you did.
The Women’s Theater Company
P.O. Box 5924
Parsippany, NJ 07054
973 316-3033
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Women’s Theater Company Announces New Season
Parsippany,NJ, August 8, 2007
The Women’s Theater Company, now in residence at the Parsippany Community Center, announces its 2007 -2008 season of plays. The first production is the Broadway hit play, Frankie and Johnny at the Clare de Lune, by Terrence McNally. It opens on Friday, October 19 and runs through November 4, at the Center, 1130 Knoll Road, Lake Hiawatha, playing Fridays and Saturdays at 8 pm and Sundays at 2 pm.
Letting Go, a new play by New Jersey playwright, Marylee Delaney, opens on March 7 and will play through March 23, 2008.
On May 16, Souvenir, by Stephen Temperley opens for a run through June 1, 2008. Souvenir received excellent revues during its New York run this past season. The Women’s Theater Company, now in its 15th year, is an Actors Equity company and a member of the New Jersey Theater Alliance. Ticket prices are $15 for plays and $20 for musicals. There is a discount for Senior Citizens and for groups.
For further information regarding group sales, benefits and reservations please call the box office, 973 316-3033.
Non-Equity auditions
See below from the Bickford. Sounds like some fun roles to be filled. Go for it.
Bickford Theatre will hold a non-Equity open call for the comic/thriller “The Musical Comedy Murders of 1940” by John Bishop on Thursday, August 16th from 5pm to 9pm. The production dates are November 15 through December 9. There is no performance on November 22nd Thanksgiving. Rehearsals which will be weekday evenings and weekends begin October 29. Deirdre Yates is directing. Please see character breakdown below. Actors are asked to prepare for the role that best suits them. For sides, please check www.BickfordTheatre.org under Auditions. Auditions will be held at the theatre, 6 Normandy Heights Road in Morristown, NJ. For directions, see website www.BickfordTheatre.org.
CHARACTER BREAKDOWN:
Helsa Wenzel- (20's) female, a maid who plays four unique personalities including a man; physical comedy skills necessary, proficient German accent a must
Elsa von Grossenknueten- (late 40's) female, Broadway angel, West Chester (NY) elite personality, attractive, very wealthy, great patron of the arts, very adventurous
Michael Kelly- (40-50) African-American male; solid, no-nonsense cop; no sense of humor
Patrick O'Reilly- (30's) male, Irish-tenor must be able to sing well; proficient Irish and German accent necessary
Ken de la Maize- (40-60) male, Hollywood and Broadway director, large ego, name-dropper, considers himself ladies man,
physical comedy skills a plus
Nikki Crandall- (20's) female, must sing well, beautiful chorus girl; tough and adventurous
Eddie McCuen- (20-30) male, energetic comedian; must sing well, physical comedy skills necessary; courageous though he usually hides it
Marjorie Baverstock (60-70) female, very wealthy Broadway producer; always stylish and in the "know", acts like royalty; bitchy personality;
physical comedy skills a plus
Roger Hopewell- (40-60) male, flamboyant musical composer, sharp-tongued; physical coward; able to play the piano a plus
Bernice Roth- (40-60) female, eccentric musical lyricist; writing partner of Roger; physical comedy skills necessary; enjoys her libations
Bickford Theatre will hold a non-Equity open call for the comic/thriller “The Musical Comedy Murders of 1940” by John Bishop on Thursday, August 16th from 5pm to 9pm. The production dates are November 15 through December 9. There is no performance on November 22nd Thanksgiving. Rehearsals which will be weekday evenings and weekends begin October 29. Deirdre Yates is directing. Please see character breakdown below. Actors are asked to prepare for the role that best suits them. For sides, please check www.BickfordTheatre.org under Auditions. Auditions will be held at the theatre, 6 Normandy Heights Road in Morristown, NJ. For directions, see website www.BickfordTheatre.org.
CHARACTER BREAKDOWN:
Helsa Wenzel- (20's) female, a maid who plays four unique personalities including a man; physical comedy skills necessary, proficient German accent a must
Elsa von Grossenknueten- (late 40's) female, Broadway angel, West Chester (NY) elite personality, attractive, very wealthy, great patron of the arts, very adventurous
Michael Kelly- (40-50) African-American male; solid, no-nonsense cop; no sense of humor
Patrick O'Reilly- (30's) male, Irish-tenor must be able to sing well; proficient Irish and German accent necessary
Ken de la Maize- (40-60) male, Hollywood and Broadway director, large ego, name-dropper, considers himself ladies man,
physical comedy skills a plus
Nikki Crandall- (20's) female, must sing well, beautiful chorus girl; tough and adventurous
Eddie McCuen- (20-30) male, energetic comedian; must sing well, physical comedy skills necessary; courageous though he usually hides it
Marjorie Baverstock (60-70) female, very wealthy Broadway producer; always stylish and in the "know", acts like royalty; bitchy personality;
physical comedy skills a plus
Roger Hopewell- (40-60) male, flamboyant musical composer, sharp-tongued; physical coward; able to play the piano a plus
Bernice Roth- (40-60) female, eccentric musical lyricist; writing partner of Roger; physical comedy skills necessary; enjoys her libations
Forum Theatre to close Aug. 25
I'm a little late with this news but sad to report the Forum Theatre is closing Aug. 25 with the final performance of "Stuart Little."
I haven't been there in some time but remember some fine productions there in the early 1990s, including "Minnie's Boys," when Vicki Tripido was trodding the boards there. Since then, I've concentrated more on North Jersey than Central Jersey, but with my geographic focus evolving (more on that soon), I was looking forward to catching up with Peter Loewy and his family-owned and operated shop.
I found an article online from CMD Media, which mails shoppers in the area (never heard of them before), citing declining box office, increased success of outside ventures (including their productions of "The Kid from Brooklyn: The Danny Kaye Story," about which I recall reading some positive reviews).
It also cites the curious problem of declining media coverage and reviews. Sure, blame it on the media. I know this: I get press release sfrom as far away as the East Lynne Theatre Company in Cape May, but I never get anything from the Forum.
This is a lesson to you all. Send us your stuff and we'll run it, but we don't have the time to track you down. I also note they are not on the list of members of the NJ Theatre Alliance, which could have helped them in this area. I've put in a call to the Alliance and hope to get some further details, which I'll share with you.
In any event, sad news to share, and I would love to get some comments, be they memories of past Forum shows or opinions on why they didn't make it. So speak up, all you theater fans. I know you want to be heard.
I haven't been there in some time but remember some fine productions there in the early 1990s, including "Minnie's Boys," when Vicki Tripido was trodding the boards there. Since then, I've concentrated more on North Jersey than Central Jersey, but with my geographic focus evolving (more on that soon), I was looking forward to catching up with Peter Loewy and his family-owned and operated shop.
I found an article online from CMD Media, which mails shoppers in the area (never heard of them before), citing declining box office, increased success of outside ventures (including their productions of "The Kid from Brooklyn: The Danny Kaye Story," about which I recall reading some positive reviews).
It also cites the curious problem of declining media coverage and reviews. Sure, blame it on the media. I know this: I get press release sfrom as far away as the East Lynne Theatre Company in Cape May, but I never get anything from the Forum.
This is a lesson to you all. Send us your stuff and we'll run it, but we don't have the time to track you down. I also note they are not on the list of members of the NJ Theatre Alliance, which could have helped them in this area. I've put in a call to the Alliance and hope to get some further details, which I'll share with you.
In any event, sad news to share, and I would love to get some comments, be they memories of past Forum shows or opinions on why they didn't make it. So speak up, all you theater fans. I know you want to be heard.
Thursday, August 2, 2007
"Stars of Tomorrow" tomorrow
Pop Quiz for all you Jersey Stage experts:
What do the following actors have in common?
Anne Hathaway – THE DEVIL WEARS PRADA, BROKEBACK MOUNTAIN and Disneys’ THE PRINCESS DIARIES
Matthew Scott – Broadway’s JERSEY BOYS (Four Season and Frankie Valley understudy)
Robert McClure - Broadway’s AVENUE Q (Nicky, Trekkie Monster, Bear and Others) National Tour as “Princeton/Rod”
Christine Danelson – “Tracy Turnblatt” HAIRSPRAY national tour
Veronica Kuehn – Broadway’s MAMMA MIA
Antonio D'Amato – Broadway’s CHITTY CHITTY BANG BANG and DR. SEUSS’ HOW THE GRINCH STOLE CHRISTMAS!
Nikki M. James – Broadway’s ALL SHOOK UP and Dorothy in THE WIZ at La Jolla Playhouse
Samantha Futerman – Sony Pictures’ MEMOIRS OF A GEISHA
Allison Siko - HBO Films’ SPEAK and "Law & Order: SVU"
But first, a word from Paper Mill Playhouse
SEE THE STARS OF TOMORROW AT PAPER MILL PLAYHOUSE!!!
What- NEW VOICES 2007 CONCERT!
Live Broadcast Opportunity! Students Singing and Dancing!
When- FRIDAY, AUGUST 3RD 7:30pm
Where- Paper Mill Playhouse
Brookside Drive
Millburn, NJ 07041
Investors Savings Bank Charitable Foundation Presents:
NEW VOICES 2007: HOORAY FOR HOLLYWOOD!
(Millburn, NJ) August 1, 2007 – Paper Mill Playhouse is proud to present over 100 New Jersey young artists from Paper Mill’s Summer Musical Theatre Conservatory and the outstanding nominees from the Rising Star Awards 2007 bound onto the Paper Mill stage in a musical celebration of Hollywood movie musicals. The New Voices Concert of 2007 is the culminating event of Paper Mill's five week Summer Conservatory and is an original concert on the Paper Mill main-stage directed and choreographed by Paper Mill’s professional artistic staff. The concert features over 100 students from the Senior, Junior Plus and Junior Divisions of the Conservatory, where for five weeks the students (ages 10-18) take classes in singing, dancing, acting, improvisation and attend guest artist workshops led by professional actors, directors and casting agents.
For two days only, Friday, August 3rd at 7:30pm and Saturday August 4th at 3:00pm and 7:30pm students will perform numbers from such movies as Singin’ in the Rain, Hairspray, The Full Monty, Billy Elliot, Meet Me in St. Louis and classic Disney films.
Many students from Paper Mill’s Conservatory have appeared in Broadway Productions, Regional Theatre and even on the big screen. Conservatory Alumni include:
· Anne Hathaway – THE DEVIL WEARS PRADA, BROKEBACK MOUNTAIN and Disneys’ THE PRINCESS DIARIES
· Matthew Scott – Broadway’s JERSEY BOYS (Four Season and Frankie Valley understudy)
· Robert McClure - Broadway’s AVENUE Q (Nicky, Trekkie Monster, Bear and Others) National Tour as “Princeton/Rod”
· Christine Danelson – “Tracy Turnblatt” HAIRSPRAY national tour
· Veronica Kuehn – Broadway’s MAMMA MIA
· Antonio D'Amato – Broadway’s CHITTY CHITTY BANG BANG and DR. SEUSS’ HOW THE GRINCH STOLE CHRISTMAS!
· Nikki M. James – Broadway’s ALL SHOOK UP and Dorothy in THE WIZ at La Jolla Playhouse
· Samantha Futerman – Sony Pictures’ MEMOIRS OF A GEISHA
· Allison Siko - HBO Films’ SPEAK and "Law & Order: SVU"
OK, does anyone need a study guide before answering our question? You can add John Lloyd Young to the list, since he spoke so eloquently about his experiences at Paper Mill before leaving Jersey, ironically, to star in "Jersey Boys." I saw him there in "The Chosen" and remember him to be quite terrific. If you don't believe me, he pasted my review on his web site. See for yourself.
http://johnlloydyoung.com/ChosenReviews.htm
Always weird when people do that. I'm always reminded that Robert Cuccioli, who I have often praised as an actor, pasted on his website my negative review of his direction of "The Glass Menagerie" at the Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey. Now, there's a mensch. Like they say, if you boast about the good reviews, you can't dismiss the bad.
Tickets are $20-37. For information, call (973) 376-4343 or visit www.papermill.org.
What do the following actors have in common?
Anne Hathaway – THE DEVIL WEARS PRADA, BROKEBACK MOUNTAIN and Disneys’ THE PRINCESS DIARIES
Matthew Scott – Broadway’s JERSEY BOYS (Four Season and Frankie Valley understudy)
Robert McClure - Broadway’s AVENUE Q (Nicky, Trekkie Monster, Bear and Others) National Tour as “Princeton/Rod”
Christine Danelson – “Tracy Turnblatt” HAIRSPRAY national tour
Veronica Kuehn – Broadway’s MAMMA MIA
Antonio D'Amato – Broadway’s CHITTY CHITTY BANG BANG and DR. SEUSS’ HOW THE GRINCH STOLE CHRISTMAS!
Nikki M. James – Broadway’s ALL SHOOK UP and Dorothy in THE WIZ at La Jolla Playhouse
Samantha Futerman – Sony Pictures’ MEMOIRS OF A GEISHA
Allison Siko - HBO Films’ SPEAK and "Law & Order: SVU"
But first, a word from Paper Mill Playhouse
SEE THE STARS OF TOMORROW AT PAPER MILL PLAYHOUSE!!!
What- NEW VOICES 2007 CONCERT!
Live Broadcast Opportunity! Students Singing and Dancing!
When- FRIDAY, AUGUST 3RD 7:30pm
Where- Paper Mill Playhouse
Brookside Drive
Millburn, NJ 07041
Investors Savings Bank Charitable Foundation Presents:
NEW VOICES 2007: HOORAY FOR HOLLYWOOD!
(Millburn, NJ) August 1, 2007 – Paper Mill Playhouse is proud to present over 100 New Jersey young artists from Paper Mill’s Summer Musical Theatre Conservatory and the outstanding nominees from the Rising Star Awards 2007 bound onto the Paper Mill stage in a musical celebration of Hollywood movie musicals. The New Voices Concert of 2007 is the culminating event of Paper Mill's five week Summer Conservatory and is an original concert on the Paper Mill main-stage directed and choreographed by Paper Mill’s professional artistic staff. The concert features over 100 students from the Senior, Junior Plus and Junior Divisions of the Conservatory, where for five weeks the students (ages 10-18) take classes in singing, dancing, acting, improvisation and attend guest artist workshops led by professional actors, directors and casting agents.
For two days only, Friday, August 3rd at 7:30pm and Saturday August 4th at 3:00pm and 7:30pm students will perform numbers from such movies as Singin’ in the Rain, Hairspray, The Full Monty, Billy Elliot, Meet Me in St. Louis and classic Disney films.
Many students from Paper Mill’s Conservatory have appeared in Broadway Productions, Regional Theatre and even on the big screen. Conservatory Alumni include:
· Anne Hathaway – THE DEVIL WEARS PRADA, BROKEBACK MOUNTAIN and Disneys’ THE PRINCESS DIARIES
· Matthew Scott – Broadway’s JERSEY BOYS (Four Season and Frankie Valley understudy)
· Robert McClure - Broadway’s AVENUE Q (Nicky, Trekkie Monster, Bear and Others) National Tour as “Princeton/Rod”
· Christine Danelson – “Tracy Turnblatt” HAIRSPRAY national tour
· Veronica Kuehn – Broadway’s MAMMA MIA
· Antonio D'Amato – Broadway’s CHITTY CHITTY BANG BANG and DR. SEUSS’ HOW THE GRINCH STOLE CHRISTMAS!
· Nikki M. James – Broadway’s ALL SHOOK UP and Dorothy in THE WIZ at La Jolla Playhouse
· Samantha Futerman – Sony Pictures’ MEMOIRS OF A GEISHA
· Allison Siko - HBO Films’ SPEAK and "Law & Order: SVU"
OK, does anyone need a study guide before answering our question? You can add John Lloyd Young to the list, since he spoke so eloquently about his experiences at Paper Mill before leaving Jersey, ironically, to star in "Jersey Boys." I saw him there in "The Chosen" and remember him to be quite terrific. If you don't believe me, he pasted my review on his web site. See for yourself.
http://johnlloydyoung.com/ChosenReviews.htm
Always weird when people do that. I'm always reminded that Robert Cuccioli, who I have often praised as an actor, pasted on his website my negative review of his direction of "The Glass Menagerie" at the Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey. Now, there's a mensch. Like they say, if you boast about the good reviews, you can't dismiss the bad.
Tickets are $20-37. For information, call (973) 376-4343 or visit www.papermill.org.
Community theater auditions
Brush up you monologues, amateur actors. Following are releases for two audition opportunities in northern NJ. And yoou could not ask for more variety: "Mary Shelley's Frankenstein" in Randolph (October play dates) and "Crimes of the Heart" in Chatham (November play dates).
I'd like to see the range of the actor who gets a part in both. But there is a connection: both were written by women.
More to come this week as the theaters scramble to get their fall productions going. No professional plays to review yet this weekend, but "The Bald Soprano" opens next week at the Shakespeare Theatre of NJ. Have I mentioned their first preview on Tuesday is a Pay What You Wish Night? For info, visit www.shakespearenj.org.
Read on for the audition stuff:
Brundage Park Playhouse, Carrell Road, Randolph, will hold auditions for their October production of MARY SHELLEY'S FRANKENSTEIN on Tuesday, August 7, and Thursday, August 9, from 7:30 until 9:30 PM.
The October "chiller" has become a bit of a tradition at the Randolph playhouse. This year's show follows BRAM STOKER'S DRACULA which was the theater's popular offering last season. Based on Mary Shelley's classic novel, as adapted by Victor Gialanella, FRANKENSTEIN is unquestionably an intriguing tale of horror and suspense perfect for the Halloween season.
Set in nineteenth-century Switzerland, MARY SHELLEY'S FRANKENSTEIN details the ill-fated experiments of young Dr. Frankenstein as he attempts to fathom the secrets of life and death. Purchasing cadavers from two unsavory grave robbers, he gives life to a creature so physically powerful and mentally twisted that he soon brings death and destruction to all who stand in his way.
Adhering more closely to the original novel than did the famous motion picture versions, the play blends moments of brooding terror and sudden shock with questions of morality and the dangers of unrestrained scientific inquiry. Blending thrills and shuddering horror with moments of touching sentiment and compelling philosophical insights, the play accomplishes the singular feat of being as moving and affecting as it is terrifying.
Director Richard Norman seeks 3 women (age ranges from 20's to 50's), 8 men (age ranges from 20's to 50's) and a teenage boy who can play younger. Men auditioning for the role of The Creature should be in their 20's/30's, athletic and in excellent shape.
Complete cast requirements can be found on the theater website at www.brundageparkplayhouse.org.
Cold readings from the script will be provided for the audition. Auditioners are requested to bring a recent headshot or snapshot and resume. Performances will run for three weekends from October 12 to the 27th.
For further information please call the theater at 973-989-7092.
Cold readings from the script will be provided for the audition. Auditioners are requested to
CRIMES OF THE HEART AUDITIONS
The Chatham Community Players is pleased to announce auditions for CRIMES OF THE HEART by Beth Henley. The show opens November 2 and runs through November 17, 2007. Director Bob Cline asks that actors come prepared to read from the script. Auditions will be held on Monday, July 30 and Monday, August 6 at 7 p.m.Rehearsals will begin after Labor DayAll auditions will be held at The Chatham Playhouse, 23 North Passaic Avenue, Chatham, NJThe Chatham Community Players has an open casting policy. All roles are open; none are pre-cast. For more details, please visit www.chathamplayers.org/auditions.htm. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact Kristin Barber at (732) 208-4184 or email casting@chathamplayers.org
Additional Information
Synopsis: A tale of three sisters who are trying to make sense of their lives -- In Hazlehurst, Mississippi, the three Magrath sisters have gathered to await news of the family patriarch, their grandfather, who is living out his last hours in the local hospital. Lenny, the oldest sister, is unmarried at thirty and facing diminishing marital prospects; Meg, the middle sister, is back after a failed singing career on the West Coast; while Babe, the youngest, is out on bail after having shot her husband in the stomach. The three reminisce over old memories while making new ones. Like most families, these three sisters have their fair share of laughter, jealousy, and differences.
Casting Information
All characters are extremely southern, and must have great comic timing, as well as emotional depth. The ability to add real detail to character work is a plus. We can easily play with some of the ages and character descriptions below, as we are seeking the best actor for each part.
Casting Breakdown
Lenny Magrath: 30, the oldest sister. Described as having a round figure and face. Most importantly, she is the oldest sister and has had to embrace all that that entails.Meg Magrath: 27, the middle sister. Described as having sad magic eyes. Moved to Hollywood to become a famous singer, she's back in town to help out. Self reliant and an individual. Babe Magrath: 24, the youngest sister. Described as having an angelic face and fierce volatile eyes. Described by sisters as being the prettiest and most perfect. When play opens, she has just shot her husband the night before. Must be capable of portraying everything form exuberance to devastation.Chick Boyle: 29, the sisters’ first cousin. Described as a brightly dressed matron. Could be tall and skinny, or even lanky. Knows how to sniff out drama, and sort of knows no boundaries. Makes self at home.Doc Porter: 30 (but appears older), Meg's old boyfriend. Described as an attractive worn man with a slight limp that adds rather than detracts from his quiet seductive quality. Barnette Lloyd: 26, Babe's Lawyer. Described as a slender, intelligent young man with an almost fanatical intensity that he subdues by sheer will.
I'd like to see the range of the actor who gets a part in both. But there is a connection: both were written by women.
More to come this week as the theaters scramble to get their fall productions going. No professional plays to review yet this weekend, but "The Bald Soprano" opens next week at the Shakespeare Theatre of NJ. Have I mentioned their first preview on Tuesday is a Pay What You Wish Night? For info, visit www.shakespearenj.org.
Read on for the audition stuff:
Brundage Park Playhouse, Carrell Road, Randolph, will hold auditions for their October production of MARY SHELLEY'S FRANKENSTEIN on Tuesday, August 7, and Thursday, August 9, from 7:30 until 9:30 PM.
The October "chiller" has become a bit of a tradition at the Randolph playhouse. This year's show follows BRAM STOKER'S DRACULA which was the theater's popular offering last season. Based on Mary Shelley's classic novel, as adapted by Victor Gialanella, FRANKENSTEIN is unquestionably an intriguing tale of horror and suspense perfect for the Halloween season.
Set in nineteenth-century Switzerland, MARY SHELLEY'S FRANKENSTEIN details the ill-fated experiments of young Dr. Frankenstein as he attempts to fathom the secrets of life and death. Purchasing cadavers from two unsavory grave robbers, he gives life to a creature so physically powerful and mentally twisted that he soon brings death and destruction to all who stand in his way.
Adhering more closely to the original novel than did the famous motion picture versions, the play blends moments of brooding terror and sudden shock with questions of morality and the dangers of unrestrained scientific inquiry. Blending thrills and shuddering horror with moments of touching sentiment and compelling philosophical insights, the play accomplishes the singular feat of being as moving and affecting as it is terrifying.
Director Richard Norman seeks 3 women (age ranges from 20's to 50's), 8 men (age ranges from 20's to 50's) and a teenage boy who can play younger. Men auditioning for the role of The Creature should be in their 20's/30's, athletic and in excellent shape.
Complete cast requirements can be found on the theater website at www.brundageparkplayhouse.org.
Cold readings from the script will be provided for the audition. Auditioners are requested to bring a recent headshot or snapshot and resume. Performances will run for three weekends from October 12 to the 27th.
For further information please call the theater at 973-989-7092.
Cold readings from the script will be provided for the audition. Auditioners are requested to
CRIMES OF THE HEART AUDITIONS
The Chatham Community Players is pleased to announce auditions for CRIMES OF THE HEART by Beth Henley. The show opens November 2 and runs through November 17, 2007. Director Bob Cline asks that actors come prepared to read from the script. Auditions will be held on Monday, July 30 and Monday, August 6 at 7 p.m.Rehearsals will begin after Labor DayAll auditions will be held at The Chatham Playhouse, 23 North Passaic Avenue, Chatham, NJThe Chatham Community Players has an open casting policy. All roles are open; none are pre-cast. For more details, please visit www.chathamplayers.org/auditions.htm. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact Kristin Barber at (732) 208-4184 or email casting@chathamplayers.org
Additional Information
Synopsis: A tale of three sisters who are trying to make sense of their lives -- In Hazlehurst, Mississippi, the three Magrath sisters have gathered to await news of the family patriarch, their grandfather, who is living out his last hours in the local hospital. Lenny, the oldest sister, is unmarried at thirty and facing diminishing marital prospects; Meg, the middle sister, is back after a failed singing career on the West Coast; while Babe, the youngest, is out on bail after having shot her husband in the stomach. The three reminisce over old memories while making new ones. Like most families, these three sisters have their fair share of laughter, jealousy, and differences.
Casting Information
All characters are extremely southern, and must have great comic timing, as well as emotional depth. The ability to add real detail to character work is a plus. We can easily play with some of the ages and character descriptions below, as we are seeking the best actor for each part.
Casting Breakdown
Lenny Magrath: 30, the oldest sister. Described as having a round figure and face. Most importantly, she is the oldest sister and has had to embrace all that that entails.Meg Magrath: 27, the middle sister. Described as having sad magic eyes. Moved to Hollywood to become a famous singer, she's back in town to help out. Self reliant and an individual. Babe Magrath: 24, the youngest sister. Described as having an angelic face and fierce volatile eyes. Described by sisters as being the prettiest and most perfect. When play opens, she has just shot her husband the night before. Must be capable of portraying everything form exuberance to devastation.Chick Boyle: 29, the sisters’ first cousin. Described as a brightly dressed matron. Could be tall and skinny, or even lanky. Knows how to sniff out drama, and sort of knows no boundaries. Makes self at home.Doc Porter: 30 (but appears older), Meg's old boyfriend. Described as an attractive worn man with a slight limp that adds rather than detracts from his quiet seductive quality. Barnette Lloyd: 26, Babe's Lawyer. Described as a slender, intelligent young man with an almost fanatical intensity that he subdues by sheer will.
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