Monthly Archives: January 2019

Cast Announced for PIPPIN at Warsaw Federal Incline Theatre

CLPThe cast includes:

  • Jackson Hurt as Pippin
  • Nora DeGreen as Leading Player
  • Maddie Vaughn as Catherine
  • Ella Rivera as Fastrada
  • Justin Glaser as Charles
  • Chris Logan Carter as Lewis
  • Angela Alexander Nalley as Berthe
  • Benjamin Brown as Theo
  • Ensemble: John Woll, Ben Goodman, Michael B. Wright Jr., Adam Levine, Cassidy Steele, Courtney Duncan, Tara-Lynne Skinner, Frankie Montazemi, Mikayla Renfrow (also Dance Captain) & Lauren Magness

Directed by Matt Wilson. Music directed by Michael Kennedy. Choreographed by Kate Stark.

Performances run July 10-Aug. 4

For more information visit www.cincinnatilandmarkproductions.com/Incline/Default.aspx

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THE VISIT Runs Feb. 22-March 2

mcp_the visit logoTHE VISIT
Mason Community Players
Feb. 22-March 2
Theatre 42 [Lebanon]

Directed by Alexandra Lisa
Produced by Matt Lisa

Cast: L. Elise Kaplan as Claire Zachanassian, Michael Easterling as Anton Schill, Kayleigh Gleason as Young Claire, Montel Marshal as Young Anton, Kevin Dunaway as Burgomaster, Rachel Freund as Teacher, Dan Nieman as Policeman, Sonya Neff as Reverend Mother, Gail Rudolph as Bonnie, John Hamilton as Pedro/Truck Driver, Randy King as Koby, Phil Catlin as Loby, Trisha Copper as Frau Schill, Jimmy Tobe as Son, Alissa Ritze as Daughter, David Bruening as Painter/Townsman 1, Tess Catlin as Doctor/Townswoman, Felicity Catlin as Townswoman’s Daughter, Scott Jarrett as Conductor/Townsman 2, Scott Freund as Reporter/Townsman 3, Andrew McKee as Athlete/Townsman 4 & Isabella Lisa as Panther

An enormously wealthy older woman returns to her former hometown with a dreadful bargain: She wants the townspeople to kill the man who got her pregnant, then jilted her. In exchange, she will provide enough money to revitalize the decrepit town. Will the  townspeople agree.

  • Fri-Sat, Feb. 22-23 at 8pm
  • Sun, Feb. 24 at 2pm
  • Fri-Sat, March 1-2 at 8pm

Official page |

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RIPCORD Review

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Dale Hodges* as Abby Binder & Pamela Myers* as Marilyn Dunne. Photo by Ryan Kurtz

RIPCORD presented by Ensemble Theatre Cincinnati through Feb. 16. Click here for a synopsis and more information on the production. I attended the opening night performance.

Ensemble Theatre Cincinnati kicks off the new year with a laugh-out-loud comedy by playwright David Lindsay-Abaire. His other well-know works include the book and lyrics for Shrek the Musical as well the plays Rabbit Hole and Good People, both of which have been staged at ETC.

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Pamela Myers* as Marilyn Dunne & Ryan Wesley Gilreath* as Scotty. Photo by Ryan Kurtz.

Well, that escalated quickly and by “that” I mean a not-so-friendly wager between hard edged, set-in-her-ways Abby (Dale Hodges) and spirited, glass-is-half-full Marilyn (Pamela Myers). While the roles may not have been written specifically for these two actresses, the casting is pitch perfect. Not only do they have the comedy chops for the roles, but the honesty they bring to the smaller, emotional moments is just as satisfying.

Caught between their schemes is resident aide Scotty played by Ryan Wesley Gilreath. Gilreath brings an easy likability to the role and more importantly the understanding patience of a caregiver.

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Pamela Myers* as Marilyn Dunne, Lisa DeRoberts as Colleen & Carter Bratton as Derek. Photo by Ryan Kurtz.

Rounding out the ensemble in multiple roles are Lisa DeRoberts, Carter Bratton, and Justin McCombs. DeRoberts couldn’t be any more perfect as Marilyn’s daughter Colleen. She matched her mother’s brashness and quirkiness in her own way and I would totally be up for a Marilyn/Colleen road trip sequel. Bratton has a fun turn as Colleen’s put-upon husband Derek. The two have a cute chemistry together, but I wouldn’t mind seeing his energy level a bit closer to her’s at times. The scene between Abby and her estranged son Benjamin (McCombs) was appropriately strained and uncomfortable with McCombs bringing a guilty vulnerability to the role.

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Justin McCombs* as Benjamin & Dale Hodges* as Abby Binder. Photo by Ryan Kurtz.

The set and lighting design by Brian c. Mehring works incredibly well on two levels. First, the shared living space for Abby and Marilyn is visually a perfect, generic, modern hospital-esque room. It is immediately recognizable and instantly believable. The script has a couple of demanding scenes that take place outside of the facility which were handled with a creativity that impresses.

The costume design by Reba Senske worked well for the production. The choices for the leading ladies complimented their personalities. I enjoyed the variety of scrubs worn by Scotty as time progressed as well as the holiday-themed costumes which were appropriately unsettling. Although the space to personalize the room was limited, I enjoyed how the carefully chosen decor also reflected the style and personalities of Abby and Marilyn.

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Pamela Myers* as Marilyn Dunne, Lisa DeRoberts (background) as Colleen, Justin McCombs* as Lewis, Carter Bratton as Derek & Dale Hodges* as Abby Binder. Photo by Ryan Kurtz.

Overall, a satisfying production with a lot of laughs and a lot of heart. A great showcase for these veteran performers on stage together for the first time.

My rating: 4.75 out of 5.

I would enjoy hearing what you think about the show or my review. All I ask is that you express your opinion without attacking someone else’s opinion. You can post your comments below.

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Auditions Announced for DRIVING MISS DAISY, THE ADDAMS FAMILY and ROCK OF AGES at Cincinnati Landmark Productions

CLPCincinnati Landmark Productions to hold auditions for two Marquee Season Shows at the Covedale Center and one District Series Shows at Warsaw Federal Incline Theater.

Open Audition dates/times for THE ADDAMS FAMILY and ROCK OF AGES:

  • Saturday, May 18th Noon to 4:30pm
  • Sunday, May 19th 6:30pm to 9:30pm

Callback:

  • Monday, May 20th (5:45pm to 7:45pm) for ROCK OF AGES
  • Monday, May 20th (8:00pm to 10:00pm) for THE ADDAMS FAMILY

Open Audition dates/times for DRIVING MISS DAISY (no callback)
Tuesday, May 21st 6pm to 9pm

Audition Location: The Warsaw Federal Incline Theatre
801 Matson Place, Cincinnati, OH 45204

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Please note: Everyone will not have to attend callbacks – you will be asked to attend (and expected to attend if asked). However, not being asked to callbacks doesn’t mean you won’t be cast.

If you’d like the audition forms sent to you in advance, email Jennifer Perrino at jenniferperrino@CLPShows.org

Important Audition Information!

  • You may audition for more than one show.
  • For ROCK OF AGES prepare 16 to 32 bars of a rock song that best demonstrates your vocal ability. You will read from the script at callbacks. Must be a minimum of 16 years of age to audition for this show.
  • For THE ADDAMS FAMILY all please prepare 16 – 32 bars of a song that best demonstrates your vocal ability, musical theatre style. You will read from the script at callbacks. Must be a minimum of 16 years of age to audition for this show.
  • For ROCK OF AGES and THE ADDAMS FAMILY, you may be tested for dance ability.
  • For DRIVING MISS DAISY – will read from the script. Age Requirement: Mid 30s – 60s
  • Adults MUST HAVE A RESUME listing theatrical experience in order to audition.
  • A headshot/picture is appreciated. Please bring a headshot and resume for each show you are auditioning for, e.g. 2 shows =2 headshots and resumes; 3 shows =3 headshots etc.
  • No more than 2 conflicts will be accepted during the rehearsal process for each of these productions.
  • All roles are paid positions. No Roles have been precast.
  • Cast members do not have to be the actual ages of the characters in any of the productions – But must be able to look age appropriate and act accordingly.

Marquee Season Shows at Covedale Center for the Performing Arts:

DRIVING MISS DAISY By Alfred Uhry
September 5 – 29, 2019

The Deep South, 1948 – just prior to the civil rights movement… Having demolished another car, Daisy Werthan, a rich, sharp-tongued widow of seventy-two, is informed by her son that she must now rely on a chauffeur. The son hires a thoughtful black man, Hoke, whom Miss Daisy immediately regards with disdain. Over the next twenty-five years, the two grow close and more dependent on each other. Steadily the dignified Hoke breaks down the stern defenses of the old lady. She teaches him to read and write, and eventually invites him to join her at a banquet in honor of Martin Luther King, Jr. At the end, Hoke has a final visit with Miss Daisy, now in a nursing home, where it is movingly clear that they have both have more in common than they ever believed possible—and that the times would ever allow them to publicly admit. Winner of the 1988 Pulitzer Prize, this is a great American play with heart, humor and humanity. Greg Procaccino, Director; Angelica Ortiz, Stage Manager

THE ADDAMS FAMILY
Book: Marshall Brickman & Rick Elice; Music and Lyrics: Andrew Lippa
Oct. 17 – Nov. 10, 2019

It’s creepy and it’s kooky!! It’s a hilarious musical! It’s every father’s nightmare! Wednesday Addams, the ultimate princess of darkness, has grown up and fallen in love with a sweet, smart young man from a respectable family – a man her parents have never met. And worse, Wednesday confides in her father and begs him not to tell her mother. Now, Gomez Addams must do something he’s never done before – keep a secret from his beloved wife, Morticia! Everything will change for the whole family on the fateful night they host a dinner for Wednesday’s ‘normal’ boyfriend and his parents. All the lovable characters (and the musical theme) from the classic TV show are here, along with great songs like, ““When You’re an Addams”, “Where Did We Go Wrong?”, “Just Around the Corner”, “Live Before We Die” and “Tango de Amor”!
Bob Brunner, Director; Ron Attreau, Music Director; Jeni Schwiers, Choreographer; Jenny Lutes, Stage Manager

District Series Shows at The Warsaw Federal Incline Theater

ROCK OF AGES
Book by Chris D’Arienzo; Music arranged by Ethan Popp; Music orchestrated by Ethan Popp; Original arrangements by David Gibbs; Musical Director, Henry Aronson.
September 26 – October 13, 2019

It’s the end of the big, bad 80’s and the party has been raging hard. Aqua Net, Lycra, lace, and liquor flow freely at one of the Sunset Strip’s last venues – a place where sexy Stacee Jaxx reigns and scantily clad groupies line up to turn their fantasies into reality. Amidst the madness, aspiring rock star (and resident toilet cleaner) Drew longs to take the stage while he longs for small-town girl Sherri. But the decade’s rock and roll fairy-tale is about to end. Can Drew, Sherri, and the gang save the 80’s? With monster hits songs like, “Hit Me With Your Best Shot”, “Wanted Dead or Alive” and “Don’t Stop Believing”, ROCK of AGES lets the party go on forever! Nominated for five Tony Awards including Best Musical. Doug Berlon, Director; Greg Dastillung Music Director; Jules Shumate Choreographer; Steven Ducker, Stage Manager

For more information on auditions, contact us at (513) 241 – 6550. Check us out on the web @ www.CLPShows.org

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A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM on the WHHS Stage Valentine’s Day Weekend

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By Mikki Schaffner Photography.

“Lord, What Fools These Mortals Be.”

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By Mikki Schaffner Photography.

Cincinnati OH – Join us this Valentine’s Day weekend at Walnut Hills High School for a retelling of a famous play but in a way you’ve never seen it before. Senior high students take on the classic comedy A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM with its usual twists and turns, but this time everything is in the 1970’s. Accompanied by a live band, you get to follow the story through the faeries, the “rude mechanicals,” and the quartet of lovers as their plots converge in hilarious twists and turns (the course of true love never did run smooth, right?). This show is not one you will want to miss, so dig out your bell bottoms and tie dye shirts, and join us on a magical journey.

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By Mikki Schaffner Photography.

The show will run February 14th through February 16th at 7pm. Tickets are $12 for adults and $10 for students and children.

Show Synopsis
By William Shakespeare
One of the greatest comedies ever written, A Midsummer Night’s Dream revolves around the adventures of four young lovers and their interactions with the fairies that inhabit a mysterious forest. Their romantic intrigues are confused and complicated still further by Puck, a mischievous fairy, who causes hilarious bouts of confusion. Other visitors to the enchanted forest include Nick Bottom, the weaver, and his friends Snug, Snout, Quince and Flute: the amateur dramatists who want to rehearse their terrible (but hilarious) version of the play Pyramus and Thisbe that they will perform for the Duke of Athens upon his wedding day. Set in the 1970s and integrated with music and dance, this production will be a comedic spectacle that brings The Bard to our larger venue.

Directed by Michael Sherman, Assistant Directed by Lydia Noll.
Production Stage Manager: Reeya Dighe

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By Mikki Schaffner Photography.

Featuring De’Ariss Hope as Theseus, Naomi Stoner as Hippolyta, Sam Frank as Egeus, Oliver Vockell as Demetrius, Louis Martini as Lysander, Caroline Yaeger as Hermia, Katie Sutkamp as Helena, Milan Parikh as Philostrate, Grace Davis as Titania, Jowon Briggs as Oberon, Peter Godsey as Puck, Colby James as Moth, Kennedy Nadermann as Cobweb, Lincoln Messerly as Mustardseed, Tamir Gray as Peasblossom, Lily Adams as Patty Quince, Jack Giglia as Nick Bottom, Matthew Eggers as Francis Flute, Elle Bisheimer as Tina Snout, Clare Brennan as Robin Starveling, Brando Donaldson as Snug, and ensemble members Cam Hogue, Ingrid Kindel, Anna Gavin, Grace Kelly Fulton, Sarah Mansfield, Joanna Acio-Alele, Christina Picklo, Kendal Cooke, Kyra Krumins, Charlie Patterson, Owen Cummings, Bettina Ernst, Rehme Leanza, Olivia Busche, Talia Raider-Roth, Piper Sauerbrunn, and Derrick McHale

Performance Dates:
February 14-16 @ 7pm

WHHS Auditorium

Buy Tickets:
https://sites.google.com/view/whhstheatredepartment/tickets

By Chloe Burwinkel
January 20, 2019

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