Monthly Archives: September 2023

Auditions Announced for ART at Village Players

VP_new logoVillage Players of Fort Thomas is holding auditions for ART by Yasmina Reza, translated by Christopher Hampton
Courtesy of Dramatists Play Service Inc.
Directed by John Leo Muething
Produced by Katie Jensen and Aimée Ward

Auditions will be held at the street-level Judith M. Sarakatsannis Gallery at 8 N. Fort Thomas Ave, Fort Thomas, KY, 41075.

Monday, October 9 from 7:00-9:30pm and Wednesday, October 11 from 7:00-9:30pm.

Please sign up for an audition slot here.

If you are not able to attend either day, video auditions may be sent in by Oct. 11 at 7pm (details available on our website).

Rehearsals begin in January (read-thru in November/December). Show dates are February 23-March 2, 2024.

Characters (ages are approximate):

  • MARC, 40s-60s (male-presenting): Successful, Married, Aeronautical Engineer. Enjoys sharing his knowledge with others.
  • SERGE, 40s-60s (male-presenting): Successful, Divorced, Dermatologist. Enjoys sharing experiences with others.
  • YVAN, 40s-60s (male-presenting): Less-than-successful, Engaged, Paper Salesman. Enjoys making those around him happy.

Official page |

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THIS IS TOM JONES! Review

Review by Katrina “Kat” Reynolds. THIS IS TOM JONES! presented by Human Race Theatre Company through September 24th. I attended the opening Sunday matinee.

tomjones_cast

The cast of THIS IS TOM JONES! (along with playwright Mark Brown).

I often find myself telling Cincinnati-area theatre lovers that the trip up to Dayton to see a show by The Human Race Theatre Company is well worth it. And after this past weekend, I will continue to insist upon it. (Bonus: The Loft Theatre where they perform is directly next to a Pizzeria Uno. Do what you will with that information.)

This month, HRTC is giving us a world premiere musical: This is Tom Jones! with book, lyrics, and music by Mark Brown as well as music by Paul Mirkovich. As much as I do not wish to provide spoilers, there is one important thing to know right off the bat: Nope, it’s not about THAT Tom Jones. The show can be described in brief as “Henry Fielding’s heart-throbbing masterpiece meets the frenzied, mop-top sounds of the 1960s” – aka the British Invasion. Add in Music Direction by Cincinnati’s own Steve Goers (who also leads the incredibly talented band) and you have yourself a rollicking good time.

Director Emily N. Wells does an excellent job giving the audience an energetic, fast-paced run through the story of our titular character with lightning-fast costume (and accent) changes. Isabella Meyers is listed as the Run Crew, but the word from inside sources is that three amazing people are backstage to assist the artists in making the character changes seamless (and they are indeed seamless). Bravx to these backstage helpers!

Scenic Designer Tamara L. Honesty and Costume Designer Janet G. Powell both have their work cut out for them and, fortunately, they both slayed their assignments. Keep an eye on the set: there are surprises which should not be ruined by a review. In addition, costumes are cleverly buildable and just plain old fantastic.

The group of nine actors (who end up playing a total of…hell, I lost count) is a true ensemble in every sense of the word. It is nearly impossible to choose a standout as every single one of them has fun moments to offer. The cast, including some more Cincinnati favourites, features Patrick Earl Phillips as Man 1; Sara Mackie as Woman 1; Edwin Large as Man 2; Kelly Mengelkoch as Woman 2; Eb Madson is Man 3; Aleah Vassell is Woman 3; Kyle Mangold as Man 4; Melinda Porto as Woman 4; and Jamie Cordes as Man 5. Comedic timing and strong vocals are a must for this show and each artist in this cast has such gifts and then some. One special note: I was particularly impressed by the beautiful way the voices of Ms. Mengelkoch and Ms. Porto sounded when they sang together – smooth as silk and sweet as molasses. Well done!

Per the HRTC site, this show is recommended if you like Austin Powers, The Full Monty, and Avenue Q. These are good guidelines as the humour is strong and bawdy while remaining smart. In addition, the music is well-written and the vocalists emit chills. While the band can run a wee bit hot, the sound balance seems to get corrected relatively quickly.

In summary, a ridiculously enjoyable musical (there IS such a thing!) with strong comedic chops that will have you smiling the entire way through. This is Tom Jones! can be enjoyed at The Loft Theatre through September 24th. Please click here for more information and plan your trip to Dayton now!

*Special thanks to Kappy Kilburn for allowing us at Behind the Curtain Cincinnati to enjoy this soon-to-be classic.*

Click here for more information on the production.

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Disney’s BEAUTY AND THE BEAST Runs Sept. 21-24

RISEUP_Beauty and the BeastDisney’s BEAUTY AND THE BEAST
Rise Up Performing Arts
Sept. 21-24
Fairfield Freshman Theatre

Directed by Rodney & Angie Neal

A beautiful Enchantress disguised as an old beggar woman arrives at a castle during a ball and offers the host, a cruel and selfish Prince, a rose in return for shelter from a storm. When he refuses, she reveals her identity. To punish the Prince for his lack of compassion, the Enchantress transforms him into a Beast and his servants into household objects, then erases the castle, the Prince, and his servants from the memories of their loved ones. She casts a spell on the rose and warns the Prince that the curse will only be broken if he learns to love another and earns her love in return, before the last petal falls.

Based on the Academy Award-winning animated feature, the stage version includes all of the wonderful songs written by Alan Menken and the late Howard Ashman, along with new songs by Mr. Menken and Tim Rice. The original Broadway production ran for over thirteen years and was nominated for nine Tony Awards, including Best Musical.

  • Thu-Fri, Sept. 21-22 at 7pm
  • Sat, Sept. 23 at 2pm & 7pm
  • Sun, Sept. 24 at 2pm & 6pm

Official page |

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Filed under On Stage, Youth Theatre

Video Auditions Announced for SEE ME. HEAR ME. Tour at American Legacy Theatre

ALT_logoACTOR
(ANY GENDER)

MISSION
American Legacy Theatre generates inviting, reimagined theatrical experiences for all people to have a voice in enriching society.

PROJECT
SEE ME. HEAR ME. is an original one-act play focused around family miscommunication, youth trauma stemming from isolation and gender identity, and career pathways in behavioral health all to reduce stigma around youth mental health services. Developed with A.L.T, in consultation with Ohio’s Dept of Mental Health and Addiction Services, this piece was written by Executive Artistic Director & CEO, Matthew David Gellin.

SEE ME. HEAR ME. is to be performed in a state-wide non-union tour to Ohio high schools. This will be a 6-person company – 4 actors, 1 stage manager, 1 company manager, 2 vans.

** Rehearsals and performances will be predominantly during the day time Monday through Friday. Weekends and evenings may be used for alternative performance times. Performances will be up to 5 days a week.**

TIMELINE
Video Auditions: NOW. Submit by September 18, 2023 for first consideration.
Rehearsals begin: October 2, 2023
First Performance Date: October 10, 2023
Current Ending Contract Date: November 19, 2023
Up to 10 performances a week of this 45-minute piece.

To submit a video audition, use the appropriate side(s) provided. You may provide sides for up to two (2) characters. Please send a link to video to:
info@americanlegacytheatre.org with the subject line of “SMHM Audition –
(Character(s) Auditioning For) – (Last Name).

EXPECTATIONS
The Actor (any gender) will structure, manage and execute the steps required to implement a high quality acting process that serves the integrity of the play, bonds the other artists, aligns artistic vision, and heightens audience engagement with the piece. Attendance at all rehearsals and performances is a given.

Additional expectations: Actors will actively participate with install and strike at each school location. Actors will hold themselves accountable on all matters, and will report to the stage manager and company manager, respectively, when appropriate. Schools have an option to do a facilitated talk-back after each performance for up to 45 minutes that actor will participate in.

ALT staff will be available to assist with critical components along the way.

COMPENSATION
This is a seven-week contract at $750/week. Potential extension of tour is in consideration.

Actor from outside of Cincinnati will be considered. Actors will be provided one round-trip ticket between their city of residence and Cincinnati. During the rehearsal period Actor will be provided accommodations. If accommodations are required, pay will be $500 for the week.

For inquiries, referrals, and consideration contact Matthew David Gellin, Executive Artistic Director, at info@americanlegacytheatre.org.

TRAVEL
On the road, the two vehicles will be driven by the Stage Manager and Company Manager who will coordinate the logistics of when travel times between locations will take place. To ensure flexibility with the needs of tour company members, sleeping arrangements on tour are made by tour company members – led by Company Manager.

ROLES – ALL ROLES CAN BE PLAYED BY ANY GENDER.

#1
Logan – Non-binary teen who needs their parent’s sincere attention. Lashing out.
Officer Jones (also doubles as) – Level-headed and controlled. Strong.

#2
Jamie – Peer support specialist and parent of college student. Sassy and high on life.

#3
Casey – Logan’s parent who is at wits end with Logan. Loves Logan but struggles to connect.

#4
Morgan – Therapist and counselor. Pragmatic, yet passionate about what they do.

SIDES

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Company Manager Sought for SEE ME. HEAR ME. Tour at American Legacy Theatre

ALT_logoCOMPANY MANAGER

MISSION
American Legacy Theatre generates inviting, reimagined theatrical experiences for all people to have a voice in enriching society.

PROJECT
SEE ME. HEAR ME. is an original one-act play focused around family miscommunication, youth trauma stemming from isolation and gender identity, and career pathways in behavioral health all to reduce stigma around youth mental health services. Developed with A.L.T, in consultation with Ohio’s Dept of Mental Health and Addiction Services, this piece was written by Executive Artistic Director & CEO, Matthew David Gellin.

SEE ME. HEAR ME. is to be performed in a state-wide non-union tour to Ohio high schools. This will be a 6-person company – 4 actors, 1 stage manager, 1 company manager, 2 vans.

** Rehearsals and performances will be predominantly during the day time Monday through Friday. Weekends and evenings may be used for alternative performance times. Performances will be up to 5 days a week.**

TIMELINE

  • Resumes and Cover Letters: NOW. Submit by September 18, 2023 for first consideration.
  • Rehearsals begin: October 2, 2023
  • First Performance Date: October 10, 2023
  • Current Ending Contract Date: November 19, 2023
  • Up to 10 performances a week of this 45-minute piece.

Please send resume and cover letter to: info@americanlegacytheatre.org with the subject line of “SMHM Company Manager – (Last Name).

EXPECTATIONS
The Company Manager will structure, manage and execute the steps required to implement a high quality company management process that serves the integrity of the play, bonds the artists, aligns external scheduling, and heightens audience engagement with the piece. Attendance at all rehearsals and performances is a given.

Additional expectations: The Company Manager must have a valid driver’s license and insurance as they will be responsible for driving one of the two vans. ALT does provide insurance for drivers but needs to ensure they are insurable. Additionally they will be the primary contact at each school location and Dept. of Mental Health and Addiction Services for tour purposes. During the performance they will run front of house and give a pre-show speech. Company Manager will consolidate reports for ALT reporting, and help the process and production in other ways, as needed. Schools have an option to do a facilitated talk-back after each performance for up to 45 minutes that Company Manager will facilitate.

ALT staff will be available to assist with critical components along the way.

COMPENSATION
This is a seven-week contract at $1,000/week. Potential extension of tour is in consideration.

Candidates from outside of Cincinnati will be considered. Company Manager will be provided one round-trip ticket between their city of residence and Cincinnati. During the rehearsal period Company Manager will be provided accommodations. If accommodations are required, pay will be $500 for the week.

Successful background check will be required for this position.

For inquiries, referrals, and consideration contact Matthew David Gellin, Executive Artistic Director, at info@americanlegacytheatre.org.

TRAVEL
On the road, the two vehicles will be driven by the Stage Manager and Company Manager who will coordinate the logistics of when travel times between locations will take place. To ensure flexibility with the needs of tour company members, sleeping arrangements on tour are made by tour company members – led by Company Manager.

SUBMISSIONS
Resumes and Cover Letters: NOW. Submit by September 18, 2023 for first
consideration.
Rehearsals begin: October 2, 2023
First Performance Date: October 10, 2023
Current Ending Contract Date: November 19, 2023
Up to 10 performances a week of this 45-minute piece.

Please send resume and cover letter to: info@americanlegacytheatre.org with the subject line of “SMHM Company Manager – (Last Name).

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