Monthly Archives: May 2018

THE COMPLETE WORKS OF WILLIAM SHAKESPEARE (ABRIDGED) [REVISED] Runs May 31-June 17

HRTC_The Complete Works logoTHE COMPLETE WORKS OF WILLIAM SHAKESPEARE (ABRIDGED) [REVISED]
Human Race Theatre Company
May 31-June 17
The Loft Theatre [Dayton]

Directed by Aaron Vega

Get ready for a show like no other. It’s an irreverent, roller-coaster ride with the Bard that will leave you breathless with laughter as three incredibly talented actors take on all 37 of his plays in just 97 minutes…with a good amount of creative editing. Part improv-run-amok, part audience participation, all delightfully absurd, this merry mashup for the whole family leaves no funny bone untickled and features a comic troupe lead by one of Ohio’s finest Shakespearian actors, Human Race Resident Artist Bruce Cromer.

  • In preview, Thu May 31 at 8pm
  • Fri-Sat, June 1-2 at 8pm
  • Sun, June 3 at 2pm & 7pm
  • Tue-Wed, June 5-6 at 7pm
  • Thu-Sat, June 7-9 at 8pm
  • Sun, June 10 at 2pm
  • Tue-Wed, June 12-13 at 7pm
  • Thu-Sat, June 14-16 at 8pm
  • Sun, June 17 at 2pm

Official page |

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RAPUNZEL Lets Down Her Hair for the Free Family Fun Series at the Arts Center at Dunham

PIP_Rapunzel

Photo by Tony Arrasmith/Arrasmith & Associates.

CINCINNATI, OH – May 1, 2018 — The Free Family Fun Series at the Arts Center at Dunham wraps up with Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park’s Off the Hill Rapunzel on Saturday, May 19 at 2 p.m.

Courtesy of a grant from Price Hill Will Arts CAT, Rapunzel lives in tower with her loving, yet very overprotective Nan after her mother left across the big sea. Year after year, Nan builds their tower higher and higher to protect them from the disgraceful, scary world. Every year, Rapunzel’s hair grows longer and so does her curiosity about the outside. It isn’t until she meets a local boy, Rafi, who finally gives her the courage to be free. Recommended for all ages.

With a script from award-winning playwright Mike Kenny, Rapunzel stays faithful to its fairytale setting that fans of the Brothers Grimm adaptation have come to know and love, while offering a nuanced perspective of independence, friendship and family relationships. The production will feature magical design elements from Playhouse artisans and is directed by Playhouse Director of Education and Community Engagement Daunielle Rasmussen.

“One of the things I love about this version is that it’s not about a boy saving a girl,” says Rasmussen, who emphasizes that the show celebrates both male and female empowerment. “Their friendship brings meaning to the girl. She finds her own life and she finds her own destiny that’s different from his.”

The story also explores how the relationship between Rapunzel and Nana changes as Rapunzel matures. Nana must learn that she cannot keep her granddaughter safe from the world no matter how scary it is. It is a theme that Rasmussen hopes will resonate with parents today.

“It’s really a story about growing up. It’s about becoming your own person as a child, and as a parent, it’s about letting your child become their own person while still providing a sanctuary where they can become who they’re meant to be,” adds Rasmussen.

Rapunzel is appropriate for ages 4 and up. The show is free. Reservations for can be made online (www.sunsetplayers.org) or by calling 513-588-4988.

Off the Hill is supported by The Robert and Adele Schiff Family Foundation, The Charles H. Dater Foundation, John C. Griswold and KeyBank.

The Playhouse is supported by the generosity of more than 40,000 contributors to the ArtsWave Community Campaign. The Ohio Arts Council helps fund the Playhouse with state tax dollars to encourage economic growth, educational excellence and cultural enrichment for all Ohioans. The Playhouse also receives funding from the Shubert Foundation and the National Endowment for the Arts.

The Arts Center at Dunham is a fine arts center for the west side of Cincinnati and its vision is to provide affordable creative and performing arts for Price Hill and surrounding communities. Housed in one of the three remaining buildings of what was the first municipally owned tuberculosis sanatorium in the United States, the Arts Center includes a 350-seat performance venue as well as extensive studio and programming space. The Arts Center is located in the Dunham Recreation Complex. See what is happening at the Arts Center at Dunham on Facebook.

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Bring Your Green Thumb and Plants to 4th Annual Plant Swap at Arts Center at Dunham

MISC_Arts Center At Dunham logoCINCINNATI, OH – May 1, 2018 — The Arts Center at Dunham (ACAD) is hosting its fourth annual Community Plant Swap on Saturday, May 12, from 9:30 am until 1 pm.

At this free event, gardeners can swap plants, bulbs and seeds from flowers, vegetables, fruits and trees with other local gardeners and pick up new plants for their gardens. Swap participants should bring their plants in a container (pot or bags) that is labelled with information, such as light and water requirement, height, spread, color, bloom time, and picture of bloom or mature plant.

The swap begins at 9:30 am for those who bring plants to swap. Those interested in starting a garden with no plants to swap can come at 10 am to select any remaining plants, bulbs or seeds. Volunteers from the Hamilton County Master Gardener Program will be on hand to help place plants and answer questions. This event is a great way to get a garden started for free.

In addition to the free swap, flowering annuals, vegetable plants and hanging baskets will be available for sale. Perfect timing for Mother’s Day gift purchases! Baskets go quickly, so arrive early for the best selection.

Robben Florist & Garden Center (325 Pedretti Road), Allison Landscaping & Water Gardens (889 Anderson Ferry Road) and Wild Birds Unlimited Nature Shop (6496 Glenway Avenue) are partnering with the Arts Center at Dunham to donate a portion of their sales at the swap and at their stores through June 3 to benefit the Arts Center. Pickup a flyer at the event or download at www.sunsetplayers.org, to use when shopping at their locations.

For more information, visit www.sunsetplayers.org or call 513-588-4988.

The Arts Center at Dunham is a fine arts center for the west side of Cincinnati. Housed in one of the three remaining buildings of what was the first municipally owned tuberculosis sanatorium in the United States, the Arts Center includes a 350-seat performance venue as well as extensive studio and programming space. The Arts Center is located in the Dunham Recreation Complex. See what is happening at the Arts Center at Dunham on Facebook.

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Opening Production Announced for 2018-2019 Season at Know Theatre of Cincinnati

KTC_logoA few weeks ago, we told you we weren’t ready to announce the first show of our next season…

Because we’ve been waiting, we’re now EXTRA SUPER excited to announce that our season opener will be WHISPER HOUSE, a ghost story musical by Duncan Sheik (composer of the beloved mega-hit Spring Awakening and American Psycho) and Kyle Jarrow (just nominated for a Tony Award for the book of Spongebob Squarepants)!

WHISPER HOUSE runs July 27 – August 18.

Click here for the press release of previously announced 2018-2019 season productions.

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Auditions Announced for SUPERMAN and SANTA CLAUS: The Musical at The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati

TCTC_new logoSUPERMAN™ and Santa Claus: The Musical

The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati (TCT) is holding auditions in May for the first two MainStage productions of the 18-19 season!

All roles are paid positions. All roles are open to all ethnicities. Upon audition registration, you may indicate which shows you would like to be considered for this season. Auditions are by appointment only.

Visit www.thechildrenstheatre.com to sign-up for an audition appointment.

You only need ONE audition appointment even if you are interested in both productions.

Children ages 9-17 and adults 18+ may make an audition appointment. Appointments can be made for:

  • Monday, May 14th, 2018 between 5:30 PM and 8:30 PM
  • Tuesday, May15th, 2018 between 5:30 PM and 8:30 PM
  • Wednesday, May 16th, 2018 between 5:30 PM and 8:30 PM
  • May 17th, 2018 between 5:30 PM and 8:30 PM

You may be asked to return and attend a “movement callback” on the day of your audition, which will take place from 8:30 PM to 9:30 PM.

SUPERMAN™ callbacks will take place on Saturday, May 19th, 3PM-7:30PM.

Santa Claus: The Musical callbacks will take place on Sunday May 20th, 7PM to 10PM.

Auditions and Callbacks are held at TCT’s headquarters located at:  4015 Red Bank Road, Cincinnati OH 45227.

For information concerning auditions call Eric Byrd at 513-569-8080 ext. 21 or email eric.byrd@tctcincinnati.com.

PREPARE
You will need to prepare an age appropriate song to best show your skill set. Please prepare at least one memorized song that best shows your vocal range. (1-minute max).  Remember to bring your PIANO SHEET MUSIC for your song as we will NOT be auditioning your a cappella skills.  An accompanist will be provided. Your sheet music MUST have the piano part, not just the vocal line, and music should be in a 3-ring binder with the cut CLEARLY marked for the accompanist.  You only need a song. You do NOT need to prepare a monologue.

You may be asked to show your dance ability later in the evening, Please bring attire with you to change into in case we ask you to return.

You must bring a RECENT 8×10 headshot and UPDATED performance resume.  Even if you upload to the audition website, a hardcopy of your headshot and resume is required.

Plan to arrive at least 10-15 minutes ahead of your appointment to check/correct previously submitted paperwork. If we are ahead of schedule, we may audition you early.

Due to concentrated rehearsal periods, we ask that you do not have conflicts during rehearsals. In an effort to best facilitate all rehearsal times, all those auditioning will be asked to list all conflicts at the time of the audition.  Conflicts will result in a stipend adjustment. Please take note of when rehearsals begin, the day and evening tech and performance schedule, and bring your calendar with you to the audition.

ABOUT THE PRODUCTIONS
SUPERMAN™ is a 1960s mid-century musical with standard vocal requirements. Santa Claus: The Musical is pop/rock in style.

SUPERMAN™
SUPERMAN™ is the tale of Superman’s efforts to defeat a vengeful scientist, the new villain Dr. Abner Sedgwick, who seeks to destroy the world’s symbol of good. In this premiere adaptation of the 1966 musical, It’s a Bird, It’s a Plane, It’s Superman, this TYA-friendly musical will be sure to soar up, up and away into the hearts of all children and the young at heart.

Directed by: Roderick Justice

Music Direction: Brian Hoffman

Book by: David Newman and Robert Benton

Music and Lyrics by: Charles Strouse and Lee Adams

Book Adaptation by: Eric Byrd and Roderick Justice

Music Adaptation by: Brian Hoffman

Rehearsals: August 30th – Sep 29th (Aug 31st-Sept 3rd Off for Labor Day)

Tech Rehearsals: Oct 1st– Oct 5th 2018

Performances:  Oct 6th– 15th 2018

SEEKING THE FOLLOWING:

[SUPERMAN] Male, early 30’s; The famous DC comic superhero’s musical, is set in the world of 1960s ben-day comic books. This tongue and cheek charmer is your average Daily Planet writer that goes by the name Clark Kent, by day… but when danger calls he’s Superman! He fights to keep his identity secret while madly in love with Lois Lane.  Seeking a trained baritone and strong actor with athletic build and bold presence. Ideally 6’0” and taller. Must be comfortable flying. Previous flight experience a plus. Also seeking understudy.

[LOIS LANE] Female, late 20’s-early 30’s; A Dailey Planet reporter that often gets herself into troublesome situations and is saved by Superman. While infatuated with Superman, she confides in her friend, Clark Kent, about her feelings towards him. Seeking strong singing actress with a doo-wop flare. Must be comfortable flying.  Also seeking understudy.

[MAX MENKEN] Male, early 30’s; A Daily Planet Columnist who dreams of uncovering the secret identity of the famous Superman. Max is a weasel who will do anything to get his work on the front page, including colluding with the enemy.  Seeking strong singer/actor/dancer with classic golden aged Musical Theatre Bari-Tenor sound. Also seeking understudy.

[SYDNEY] Female, Mid 20’s; Max Menken’s personal secretary who is madly in love with him but can’t bring herself to admit it.  She becomes the hero of the story when she tips off the authorities about shady dealings and reclaims her power. Seeking a strong actor/singer/dancer with classic musical theatre mezzo with solid belt.  Also seeking understudy.

[ABNER SEDGWICK] Male. Late 30’s-early 50’s; the villain, an MIT physicist obsessed with destroying Superman and getting revenge on humanity.  He uses every trick in the book including enlisting the help of a troupe of crooks to rid the world of Superman. Seeking strong comedic actor who can sing/speak sing.  Also seeking understudy.

[PERRY WHITE] Male late 40’s-Early 50’s; is a Daily Planet Editor. Perry is the chief of the office and runs a tight ship.  Actor will also double as various roles in the ensemble.

[KENNETH BANGHART] mid 20’s-30’s; the host of a public service announcement video detailing Superman’s upbringing.  Actor will also double in the ensemble.

[MALE & FEMALE ENSEMBLE] Teenagers 15+ and young adults, character actors mid 40’s-50’s; Skilled and versatile dancer/actor/singers of all ages to portray citizens, policemen, crooks, secretaries, college kids, suspects, bank guards, and cover principal roles.  Tumbling skills and dance technique a HUGE plus!

Santa Claus: The Musical
After 1,000 years of faithful service, Santa Claus has decided to retire. But not all the elves in Santa’s Workshop are too thrilled about his chosen replacement. With the help of his tech-savvy daughter, Beatrice, website designer Nick is in for the adventure of his life as he prepares to take over the reins to Santa’s sleigh…before the next Christmas! Jam-packed with a sleigh-full of fun, energetic, and original Christmas music, Santa Claus: The Musical will be sure to put you and your entire family in the holiday spirit!

Directed by: Eric Byrd

Book by: Noah Putterman

Music & Lyrics by: David Christensen and Luke Holloway

Rehearsals: Oct 29th– Dec 1st

Tech Rehearsals: Dec 5th-7th

Performances:  Dec 8th-17th

SEEKING THE FOLLOWING:

[SANTA CLAUS] Male 40’s-50’s; The man himself! However, after being the man for 1,000 years, he’s finally ready to pass on the reins and find someone new to fill his boots.  Seeking strong singer/actor ideally with Bari-Tenor range up to an F.  Also seeking understudy.

[MRS. CLAUS] Female, Late 30’s-50’s; As the saying goes, behind every great man is an even greater woman. She has a heart of gold, and a little bit of sass for good measure.  Seeking strong singer/actress.  Also seeking understudy.

[HENCHY] Male 20’s-30’s; Santa’s “head elf” in charge of mission control. He has the most Christmas spirit of anyone in Santa’s workshop, but can be a bit of a stick in the mud when it comes to all the rules and regulations. Henchy dreams of becoming the new Santa Claus.  Seeking strong singing actor who can dance, Tenor range up to an A.

[NICHOLAS (NICK)] Male, late 30’s-40’s; A website designer and a single dad to Beatrice.  Nick is surprised to find he is in line to fill Santa’s boots. Nick has no idea what it takes, nor what it is in store to take the reins. But with the help from his daughter, he discovers he may have what it takes after all.  Seeking strong singer/actor, Tenor to a G.  Also seeking understudy.

[BEATRICE (BEE)] Female, age 12-14; Nicholas’ daughter who is a computer whiz and problem solver. Extremely mature and independent, Bree comes to the rescue more than a few times to help her Dad and save Christmas.  Seeking strong contemporary singer/actress with mix/belt to a C.  Also seeking understudy.

[THE THREE LADY ELVES] Female; mid 20’s; these three elves are the supervisors in Santa’s workshop and provide commentary throughout. [TENCHY] is the nervous and athletic one out of the trio. [CHIRPY] is the happy optimist of the group. [PUNCHY] is irritable, bookish elf who develops quite a fondness for the new Santa.  All should be high energy with extremely strong voices and attitudes, belters up to a D, must dance.  Also seeking understudies.

[ELF ENSEMBLE] Male & Female Late teens to young adult; Seeking extremely strong actor/singer/dancers with pop/rock voices and strong dance training to be in the Elf ensemble and cover principal roles.  Acrobatics and Tumbling skills a HUGE plus.

[REINDEER ENSEMBLE] Seeking 8 children to portray reindeers in key moments throughout the show. Must be over the age of 9.  Seeking strong dancers, Acrobatics and Tumbling skills a HUGE plus.

-end-

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