Monthly Archives: May 2025

2026 Season Announced by Middletown Lyric Theatre at the Sorg

YOU’RE A GOOD MAN, CHARLIE BROWN
May 1-3, 2026
Directed by Charley Shafor

THE NANCE
June 26-28, 2026
Directed by Charley Shafor

PIPPIN
July 31-Aug. 2, 2026
Directed by Ryan Heinrich

MASTER CLASS
Oct. 2-4, 2026
Director TBA

A CHRISTMAS CAROL: A Live Radio Play with Music
Dec. 18-20, 2026
Director TBA

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Art As Advocacy: Disabled Artists Telling Disabled Stories

Z is for Zebra is a story about chronic illness told by artists, the majority of whom identify as chronically ill and/or disabled 

[Cincinnati, OH] The world premiere of Z IS FOR ZEBRA is a one-night-only event at the Cincinnati Fringe Festival as part of their development series. Z IS FOR ZEBRA, written by Katie Scarlett, explores the relationship between chronic illness and grief as told through the eyes of a professor giving a lecture on Kubler-Ross’s “stages of grief.” But what happens when the professor’s overconfident (and unwanted) TA takes her on a whirlwind journey through her own hardships with chronic illness? Together, they navigate the path to acceptance (no matter how fleeting) through a series of successes and struggles with humor, heart, and a lot of pill bottles.

The show will take place on June 5, 2025 at 6:45pm at The Know Theatre on 1120 Jackson Street. The cast includes: Ben Dudley, Kate Stark, and Katie Scarlett. Production team includes: Liz Carman (director), ErinMarie Suscheck (stage manager), and designers Becca Schall, Jared Earland, and Rupert Spraul.

Scarlett, who is disabled herself, strongly believes in art as a form of advocacy. “For a lot of chronically ill people self-advocacy starts young in medical settings. You have to learn how to stand up for yourself because often you’re not believed by medical professionals or you receive a lot of pushback,” Scarlett says. “This show for me was a way of broadening my advocacy past myself. My story isn’t unique. I can name multiple people in the disabled and chronic illness communities who have shared similar experiences. It’s important for other people to know how hard it is to navigate a complex healthcare system when the chronic part of being ill never ends, that’s where the stages of grief kick in.” This message is important as, according to the CDC, more than 1 in 4 adults in the United States are disabled. Most people have someone in their life that has struggled with their health, this story provides more context to relate on a deeper level.

It was important to Scarlett to build a team of disabled artists. She believes disabled stories need to be told, more specifically by disabled artists. “This city is full of incredibly talented disabled artists, and often standard schedules and spaces are built for able-bodied people. It’s been nice to be in a space where no one bats an eye when I pull out an ice pack, attach it to a part of my body, and then continue doing whatever I’m doing. If someone isn’t feeling well, we can work around them or with them in a different way. It would be nice to start bringing that level of awareness to more able-bodied spaces,” Scarlett says.

For tickets and more information please check out the Cincinnati Fringe Festival’s website: https://cincyfringe.com/z-is-for-zebra

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The Story of Joseph in Technicolor Runs June 6-22

The hit musical from Andrew Lloyd Webber comes to Grant County

Williamstown, KY – Stage Right Musical Theatre Company is proud to announce the first show in their 9th season: Andrew Lloyd Webber’s smash hit “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat”. This colorful musical runs June 6-22 at the Williamstown Performing Arts Center.

“Our season is one of color, comedy, and pure imagination,” Artistic Director John Siedenberg II said, “Joseph is the perfect display for all three. I cannot wait for audiences to experience this unique retelling of the Bible story.”

“Get ready for a dazzling journey of Biblical proportions in Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat! This vibrant musical brings the story of Joseph and his coat of many colors to life with unforgettable music, colorful costumes, and an epic tale of betrayal, dreams, and redemption. Follow Joseph, the beloved son of Jacob, as he’s sold into slavery by his jealous brothers, rises to power in Egypt, and ultimately faces them once more in a thrilling twist. With its catchy songs and dynamic performances, this is a show that will have you on the edge of your seat and leave you cheering for a family reunited and a dream fulfilled. Don’t miss this unforgettable, heartwarming adventure!”

The production is directed by Cincinnati Artist Zac Holman, with Stage Management by Lizzy Siedenberg, Music direction by Lauren Barnhill, Costume Design by Hannah Richardson, Sound Design by Jake Tillman, and Production design by John Siedenberg.

The cast is led by Annie Schneider and Cody Combs as the Narrator and Joseph respectively.
The rest of the cast includes James Lindeman as Jacob, Potiphar & Pharaoh, Sara Cox, Mary
Vosseberg, Cater Bechtol, Donald Washington, Lily Hobson, Franny Bell, Maxx Ruth, Karli Smith, Megan Murray, Zachary Simpson, and Bodie Moore as the brothers. The ensemble is played by Samanha Hacker, Maya Morgan, Cassidy Perme, and Abby Schuler.

This show is presented by the Grant County Tourist & Convention Commission.

Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat runs June 6-22; tickets are available at
www.StageRightMTC.org

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Cincinnati Shakespeare Company Presents the World-Premiere of MRS. DALLOWAY: A New Musical

Cincy Shakes completes the season with a musical world-premiere by Lindsey Augusta Mercer inspired by the novel by Virginia Woolf!

Cincinnati, May 21, 2025 – Cincinnati Shakespeare Company presents Mrs. Dalloway: A New Musical, book, music, and lyrics by Lindsey Augusta Mercer, inspired by Virginia Woolf’s novel.  This production is directed by Sara Clark. This world-premiere production will be on stage from May 23 – June 15, 2025 with an ensemble cast of 16 actors joined by a live 9 piece orchestra each night. Mrs. Dalloway: A New Musical is generously sponsored by Ensemble Sponsors Marcie and Jim Kinney; Design Sponsors Judge Mark and Sue Anne Painter; and New Play Development Sponsors the McElroy Family and Robert and Donna Welch.

It is 1923 and the pandemic and WWI have ravaged Europe, but Clarissa Dalloway is determined to throw the greatest party London has ever seen. While she buys the flowers and makes last minute preparations, serendipitous reunions force her to confront the past. As she dismantles the façade she tirelessly upholds, she rekindles connections with friends and lovers, awakening her inner desires for the words she never spoke and the paths of love she never took. Don’t miss this iconic novel reimagined for the stage as a musical romance that features golden-age Broadway–inspired music with a folk-pop feel.

Originally commissioned by Cincinnati Shakespeare Company in 2021, Mrs. Dalloway: A New Musical is a musical reimagining of Virginia Woolf’s classic novel written and composed by Lindsey Augusta Mercer. The choice to adapt the novel as a musical originates from the text itself. Lindsey said “Music is everywhere in Mrs. Dalloway, that was apparent to me from the moment I picked up the novel for the first time. Not only does Virginia Woolf give us lush descriptions of sound that constantly provoke the emotional state of our characters, but her stream of consciousness writing style makes the book itself flow like a symphony.”

This world-premiere musical features a powerhouse ensemble of 16 performers, blending familiar faces with exciting new talent at Cincy Shakes. Christiana Cole leads the cast as Clarissa Dalloway, with Bex Odorisio as Sally Seton, a former love of Clarissa’s. Robby Clater and Cary Davenport portray Peter Walsh and Hugh Whitbred, two of Clarissa’s longtime friends. Byron St. Cyr takes on the role of Richard Dalloway, her husband. Noah Berry plays Septimus Warren Smith a former soldier suffering from PTSD. His wife Rezia, played by Courtney Lucien, struggles to help him deal with trauma of World War I. Rounding out the ensemble and portraying a range of characters are Wesley Carman, Hannah Gregory, Christian Hall, Montez Jenkins Copeland, Bethany Xan Kerr, Kelly Mengelkoch, Dani Grace Nissen, Patrick Earl Phillips, and Aleah Vassell.

The cast will be accompanied by a 9-piece orchestra playing live with the actors. Members of the orchestra, under the direction of Matthew Umphreys, include Betty Douglas (Flute), Jeanna Vella (Clarinet), Emery Hicks (Trumpet), Linsey Rogers (Violin), Julie Lim (Cello), Joel Greenberg (Guitar), Matthew Umphreys (Piano), Renate Thomas (Bass), and Brian Malone (Drums).

Sara Clark directs the production after leading last season’s heartwarming A Midsummer Night’s Dream to the CSC stage. Sara Clark has made a home at Cincinnati Shakespeare Company for the past 18 years as an actor, director, teacher, and fundraiser and is currently serving as Director of Development as CSC.  The production team of Mrs. Dalloway: A New Musical brings this world-premiere to life on stage. Samantha Reno and Rainy Edwards return as Scenic Designer and Costume Designer, transporting the audience to the 1920s with beautiful sets and costumes that feature a modern flair. Lighting Designer Nina Agelvis, assisted by Ivy Walker, and Projections Designer Robert Carlton Stimmel craft vivid watercolor inspired dreamscapes that draw the audience into the characters’ inner worlds. Dance Choreographer Ashley Goos brings Lindsey Augusta Mercer’s orchestrations to life through expressive movement, while Music Director and Co-Arranger Matthew Umphreys leads the orchestra and ensemble in delivering a stunning musical experience. Zackery Bennett serves as Sound Designer assisted by Emma Miller. Torie Wiggins serves as Intimacy Director, and Gina Cerimele-Mechley as Stunt Coordinator. Casting was led by Stephanie Klapper. Cole Sweasy serves as Stage Manager, with Rowan Rozzi as Assistant Stage Manager.

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Mrs. Dalloway: A New Musical runs from May 23 – June 15, 2025. Performances of Mrs. Dalloway: A New Musical are on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays at 7:30 PM, with Sunday matinees on June 1,8, and 15 and Saturday Matinees on May 31 and June 14 at 2:00 PM. CSC offers performances with accessibility resources. Live Audio Descriptions are available on May 23, and there is a Sign Language Interpreted performance on June 15.

Tickets are on sale now. Preview performances are on Wednesday, May 21, and Thursday, May 22, with half price tickets. Young Professionals are invited to YP Preview Night on Wednesday, May 21, with discounted tickets at $25, including a free drink and post-show talkback.

For the best ticketing experience and to avoid resale sites or scams, please be sure to only purchase tickets directly through Cincinnati Shakespeare Company online at cincyshakes.com or by calling the Box Office at 513.381.2273. Ticket prices range from $14-$87; don’t pay more!

Discounts are available for students, seniors, educators, military personnel, local residents, and community partners at all performances.

For those seeking last-minute options or additional ways to save, $12 Rush Tickets are available to anyone (not just students) starting one hour before each performance. These tickets, offered in various seating locations, are subject to availability and must be purchased in person at the Box Office within an hour of show time. Additionally, $14 “Access” tickets are offered in the Upper Gallery for each performance and can be purchased in advance online or by calling the Box Office.

To purchase tickets or for more information, call the CSC Box Office at 513.381.BARD (2273) ext. 1, or visit cincyshakes.com. Visa, Discover, MasterCard, and American Express are accepted, and ticketing fees apply.

Cincinnati Shakespeare Company is located at 1195 Elm Street, adjacent to Washington Park. In addition to abundant public parking options in the immediate vicinity, CSC offers parking services, including valet parking for $25 (managed by Star Parking) and self-parking for $15 (managed by 3CDC) in the adjacent lot. Reservations can be made in advance online or by contacting the Box Office. For more details, visit cincyshakes.com/your-visit/parking.

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About Cincinnati Shakespeare Company:

Cincinnati Shakespeare Company is a professional theatre company dedicated to bringing Shakespeare and the classics to life for all. In the summer of 2017, the theater relocated to the Otto M. Budig Theater, a brand-new facility in the Over-the-Rhine neighborhood of Cincinnati. CSC’s repertoire is composed of the works of William Shakespeare, literary adaptations, world premieres, and contemporary classics. CSC performs on a Small Professional Theatre contract with the Actors’ Equity Association. Cincinnati Shakespeare is a member of Theater Communications Group and the Shakespeare Theatre Association. Each year, Cincinnati Shakespeare Company’s Education and Outreach Programs reach more than 50,000 young people and community members by meeting audiences where they are. This includes sharing programming in schools, parks, community centers, and hosting educational matinees of mainstage productions. In 2015, CSC was proud to become one of the first five theaters in the United States to “Complete the Canon” by producing all 38 plays by William Shakespeare. CSC is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, and all donations are tax-deductible. Cincinnati Shakespeare Company is proud to be Cincinnati’s stage for the classics!

Cincinnati Shakespeare Company’s 2024-2025 Season is generously presented by our Operating Support Partners: The Carol Ann and Ralph V. Haile, Jr. Foundation; The Ohio Arts Council; The Robert and Adele Schiff Family Foundation; The National Endowment for the Arts in partnership with Arts Midwest; The Shubert Foundation; Maureen and John Bridgeland, Cindy Bridgeland Crilley, and Debby and Jim Mason in honor of Jim Bridgeland; Lightborne, and the tens of thousands of people who give generously to the ArtsWave Community Campaign.

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Award-Winning New Queer Play STUCK is Coming to Cincy Fringe May 31-June 8

CINCINNATI – Wicked Cat Productions will present Stuck written by JJ Ivey and directed by Patrick O’Connell. The production will be presented as part of the 2025 Cincinnati Fringe Festival at Gabriel’s Corner with performances between May 31st and June 8th. Stuck is a sharp, funny, and sometimes steamy new play about what happens when teenage fantasy becomes a messy adult reality.

When Drew’s straight best friend, Dale, stumbles back into their life—drunk, unannounced, and after more than a decade apart—the night spirals into a messy mix of surprising flirtation, nostalgia, and unresolved tension. As laughter gives way to confessions and fears, and old traumas surface, the two must confront their past and what it means for their future. Stuck celebrates the beauty of imperfections, Queer love, and Queer bodies.This production premiered at New York City Fringe in April 2025 where it won the Staff Choice Award. 

“The playwright poignantly sheds light on how a form of healing from trauma comes from a person’s ability to laugh… The chemistry between both actors is electrifying and steamy as they share passionate and intimate displays… Stuck is a declaration that the act of self-love is the ultimate vindication.” – Theatre Beyond Broadway

“A raw, unflinching look at the intricacies of human connection. With moments that are both affecting and undivinable, this production masterfully explores…the fragile boundary between love and loss… this play strikes a resonant chord with its unrelenting honesty.” – Hi! Drama 

WHAT: Stuck by JJ Ivey
WHO: Featuring Royce Thomas Johnson and JJ Ivey

Directed by Patrick O’Connell
With Production Stage Manager Kaitlyn Chase
And Intimacy Coordinator Sean Fletcher Griffin

WHEN:

  • 4:15 p.m. Saturday, May 31
  • 8:45 p.m. Sunday, June 1
  • 8:45 p.m. Tuesday, June 3
  • 7:00 p.m. Friday June 6
  • 8:45 p.m. Sunday, June 8

WHERE: Gabriel’s Corner 1425 Sycamore St, Cincinnati, OH 45202
HOW MUCH: Single Tickets $20
RUNNING TIME: 60 minutes
TICKETS: https://cincyfringe.com/stuck

Wicked Cat Productions is an independent theater company founded by Kaitlyn Chase and JJ Ivey in 2024. Dedicated to championing new voices and reimagining classical works for contemporary audiences, the company focuses on creating sustainable, impactful theater while ensuring fair compensation for artists and creatives. Wicked Cat Productions made its debut with Death of a Dandelion at NYC and Orlando Fringe in 2024. Follow @wickedcatproductions.

Patrick O’Connell (Director) has been collaborating on “Stuck” since its beginning as a short play. They are a graduate of Emerson College and notable productions include A Midsummer Night’s Dream (Clementine Players) and a staged reading of their own play Roaches! (Tumbleweed Collective). They are an alumni and collaborator with Barr Hill Players and Resident Playwright with Tumbleweed Collective. Follow @patrick.1227.

JJ Ivey (Playwright/Performer) is a nonbinary, plus-size theatre professional from Tennessee. They are currently attending Brooklyn College and trained at Atlantic Acting School. JJ creates work that explores themes of self-image, spirituality, and the contradictions behind perceived identities. Acting credits include Death of a Dandelion (Wicked Cats), A Midsummer Night’s Dream (Clementine Players), and Bloom (SheNYCArts). JJ also works in theatrical management. Follow @jjivey_actor.

Royce Thomas Johnson (Performer) is an actor, writer, and sketch comic from Atlanta, GA. His stage work has taken him across the country with recent NYC credits including Velvet Rage (The Tank), Happenstance (Kraine Theatre), and Crazy About You (Producer’s Club). TV includes Criminal Minds, Chuck, and Hannah Montana. Upcoming film includes the feature Mother Wolf with Melissa Leo. He holds a BFA from NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts. Follow @roycelooksatstuff.

Kaitlyn Chase (Stage Manager) is a New Mexican born Actress, Director, and Producer. She holds a degree in Performing Arts from University of New Mexico and trained at the Stella Adler Studio Conservatory. Acting credits include A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Human Error and The Seagull. Directing credits include Death of a Dandelion and The Third One. Follow @kaitlyncb_1.

Sean Griffin (Intimacy Coordinator) is a member of UnkleDave’s Fight-House. Broadway: Appropriate, Merrily We Roll Along, Uncle Vanya. NY: Seven Year Disappear (New Group); Comedy of Errors (Public); Light in the Piazza, Oliver! (Encores). Regional: View From The Bridge (Long Wharf); Living and Breathing, The Hombres (Two River); Wait Until Dark (Dorset); Maggie, Billy Elliot, Oklahoma! (Goodspeed). Member of Actors Equity and playwright. Follow @sean.fletcher.ny.

For further information or to arrange an interview, please contact Kaitlyn Chase at wickedcatproductionsnyc@gmail.com.

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