Category Archives: Press Releases

January 2, 2025 · 5:29 pm

A Unique Courtroom Drama Comes to Life: 12 ANGRY JURORS Staged at Warren County Common Pleas Court

Warren County, Ohio – The iconic courtroom drama 12 Angry Jurors will take on new life in a one-of-a-kind theatrical production staged at the Warren County Common Pleas Court. This immersive performance promises to captivate audiences by blending the power of live theater with the authenticity of a real courtroom setting.

Show Dates: January 31st, Feb. 1st, Feb, 7th and 8th
Show Times: all shows at 7:30pm
Location: Warren County Common Pleas Court, 500 Justice Dr. Lebanon, OH 45036

Tickets: https://www.thestorycollective.org/12-angry-jurors-2025

Adapted from Reginald Rose’s classic drama 12 Angry Men, this production explores themes of justice, bias, and the power of deliberation. The unique staging inside a working courthouse deepens the play’s resonance, immersing the audience in the intensity and intimacy of jury deliberations.

The cast features a talented ensemble of local performers, each embodying the diverse and complex personalities that make up a jury tasked with deciding a young defendant’s fate. Their performances will be further heightened by the historic and imposing courtroom setting, which serves as both a character and a stage for this unforgettable production.

Tickets are limited due to the intimate setting, so early reservations are strongly recommended.

For more information or to purchase tickets, visit thestorycollective.org

About The Story Collective:
The Story Collective of Cincinnati creates and produces a variety of events in Northern Cincinnati, including but not limited to, fully staged productions, staged readings, creative events, classes, and workshops that connect artists and communities of all ages through artistic excellence and encouraging environments.

About 12 Angry Jurors:
Originally adapted from Reginald Rose’s 12 Angry Men, this version opens the story to a diverse jury, broadening the scope and relevance of its themes for modern audiences

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December 19, 2024 · 5:16 pm

Cincinnati Opera Announces 2025 Opera Raps Series

Discover the stories behind the works featured during
Cincinnati Opera’s 2025 Summer Festival

CINCINNATI (December 18, 2024)—Cincinnati Opera announces the return of its popular Opera Raps series, offering audiences a fascinating exploration of the history, controversy, and personalities behind the works featured during its 2025 Summer Festival. Led by Cincinnati Opera’s Harry T. Wilks Artistic Director Evans Mirageas along with special guest artists, the four-part series runs from January 8 through April 3, 2025, and delves into Rigoletto, Tosca, and Fiddler on the Roof with exclusive performances, stories, and insights. See below for details.

Cincinnati Opera
2025 OPERA RAPS CALENDAR

January 8, 2025, at 7:30 p.m.
Opera Houses Lost and Found: A Season Preview
Wilks Studio, Cincinnati Music Hall
1241 Elm Street, Cincinnati, OH 45202

The works featured during Cincinnati Opera’s 2025 Summer Festival—Rigoletto, Tosca, and Fiddler on the Roof—received their world or US premieres in New York City opera houses and theaters. Join Evans Mirageas and guest artists to trace the histories of these productions tied to historic and now-mostly-vanished venues. With exclusive video and live performances, they’ll share the stories of how these works came to be in America.Admission: Free. Reservations are available beginning December 18 at noon; call 513-241-2742 or visit cincinnatiopera.org.

February 12, 2025, at 7:30 p.m.
Rigoletto: Banned at the Box Office
Mercantile Library
414 Walnut Street, Suite 1100, Cincinnati, OH 45202

Though Giuseppe Verdi’s Rigoletto now occupies a secure position in the operatic canon, at its premiere, it was the subject of significant controversy and censorship. The source material for the libretto had already been banned in France: the drama Le roi s’amuse by Victor Hugo. Determined to adapt the play into an opera, Verdi fought at every turn to preserve the power of the story and integrity of the source material, with varying degrees of success. Join in this exploration of Rigoletto, as well as Verdi’s other hotly contested operas, featuring special musical performances.

Admission: Free. Reservations are available beginning December 18 at noon; call 513-241-2742 or visit cincinnatiopera.org.

March 12, 2025, at 7:30 p.m.
Tosca: A Roman Evening
Cincinnati Opera Production Facility
7712 Reinhold Drive, Cincinnati, OH 45237

Throughout Giacomo Puccini’s opera Tosca, the city of Rome plays an ever-present role. The opera is set among iconic Roman landmarks like the Castel Sant’Angelo and Palazzo Farnese, and even includes music in the Roman dialect. Evans Mirageas and featured artists will lead guests on a musical tour of Rome, interweaving music from Tosca with classic Roman songs.

Admission: Free. Reservations are available beginning December 18 at noon; call 513-241-2742 or visit cincinnatiopera.org.

April 3, 2025, at 7:30 p.m.
Fiddler on the Roof: The Songs That Got Away
The Amberley Room, Mayerson JCC
8485 Ridge Road, Cincinnati, OH 45236

The beloved musical Fiddler on the Roof is full of classic tunes like “If I Were a Rich Man” and “Matchmaker, Matchmaker.” The creators of the show—Jerry Bock (music), Sheldon Harnick (lyrics), and Joseph Stein (book)—were so prolific that they also produced many songs that did not make the final cut. Evans Mirageas and musical guests will serve as guides through the forgotten songs of Fiddler on the Roof, including hits from the show as we know it today and surprises from the archives.

Admission: Free. Reservations are available beginning December 18 at noon; call 513-241-2742 or visit cincinnatiopera.org.

About Cincinnati Opera

Cincinnati Opera’s mission is to enrich and connect our community through diverse opera experiences. Founded in 1920 and the second-oldest opera company in the nation, Cincinnati Opera presents a thrilling season of grand opera every summer and engaging programs throughout the year. The company’s repertoire includes beloved classics and contemporary masterworks brought to life by some of the world’s most dynamic performers and creative artists.

Cincinnati Opera is supported by the generosity of tens of thousands of contributors to the ArtsWave Community Campaign. This project was supported in part by the Ohio Arts Council, which receives support from the State of Ohio and the National Endowment for the Arts. Cincinnati Opera also receives general season support from The Louise Dieterle Nippert Musical Arts Fund, Patricia A. Corbett Estate and Trust, and the Harry T. Wilks Family Foundation, along with general season and project support from many other generous individuals, corporations, and foundations. Cincinnati Opera is a member of OPERA America. Learn more at cincinnatiopera.org.

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December 17, 2024 · 5:52 pm

TEXAS ANNIE: The Legend of the Moan Ranger Partners with Midwestern Lesbian for a One Night Interactive Show Experience

The Texas Annie “Interactive Show Experience” Debuts January 18, 2025, at The Know Theatre’s Underground Bar: A Campy Musical for the Fight Against Shame and Oppression

CINCINNATI, OH – On Saturday, January 18, 2025, the Texas Annie “Interactive Show Experience” debuts at The Know Theatre’s Underground Bar, bringing a fresh, community-driven take to the celebrated satirical musical. This updated version of the show, featuring a new digital component supported by an Ohio Arts Council Artist Opportunities Grant, offers a night of connection, laughter, and activism.

Designed to build community while tackling urgent social justice issues, Texas Annie takes audiences on a journey as hilarious as it is heartwarming. With rising anti-obscenity laws targeting the LGBTQ+ population, this new version of the show couldn’t come at a better time.

Event Details:

  • Date: Saturday, January 18, 2025
  • Location: Know Theatre’s Underground Bar, 1120 Jackson St, Cincinnati, OH 45202

  • Time:

    • 5-6pm: Happy Hour with Texas Annie-themed drink specials

    • 6-7pm: The Texas Annie “Interactive Show Experience”

    • 7-9pm: Sapphic Sips After Party hosted by Midwestern Lesbian

  • Tickets: On sale now! Early bird discount through December 20th.
    Get Tickets Here

About Midwestern Lesbian

Midwestern Lesbian—founded by Kelsey Ference—is an event promotion and community engagement platform dedicated to creating inclusive, empowering spaces for the Midwest’s LGBTQ+ community. Known for hosting sold-out events like the Big Gay Bar Crawls and Sapphic Sips, Midwestern Lesbian has built a reputation for fostering meaningful connections through social gatherings, queer networking opportunities, and community-focused initiatives.

For the Texas Annie premiere, Midwestern Lesbian is bringing their signature energy to the Sapphic Sips After Party, providing an inviting space for queer women and allies to celebrate, network, and connect after the show. With over 35,000 social media followers and a track record of capacity-filled events, Midwestern Lesbian continues to play a vital role in promoting LGBTQ+ culture and activism throughout Cincinnati.

Attendees can look forward to:

  • Opportunities to meet fellow LGBTQ+ community members.

  • Door prizes donated by CalExotics and local queer-owned businesses.

  • The signature community-centered atmosphere that Midwestern Lesbian is known for.

A New, Interactive Experience

This new, reimagined version of Texas Annie: The Legend of the Moan Ranger transforms the original staged production—which debuted to sold-out crowds and won the Audience Pick Award at the 2022 Cincinnati Fringe Festival—into a high-energy, cabaret-style experience. With audience shoutbacks, singalongs, digital projections, and comedic sound effects, this version invites connection and engagement like never before.

Join the Movement

All proceeds from the January 18th performance will help fund Texas Annie’s journey to the NYC Fringe Festival in April 2025.

How You Can Support Texas Annie:

Texas Annie’s Creative Team

  • Produced by: Jenn Howd and Maggie Perrino

  • Book by: Jenn Howd & Roz Mihalko

  • Music by: John Woods, Stephen Goers, Roz Mihalko, and Jenn Howd

  • Lyrics by: Roz Mihalko, Jenn Howd, and John Woods

  • Directed & Choreographed by: Maggie Perrino

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December 16, 2024 · 5:02 pm

Cincinnati Ballet Appoints Cervilio Miguel Amador as Permanent Artistic Director

Cervilio Miguel Amador. Photo by Hiromi Platt Photography.

Amador, former principal dancer, served as Interim Artistic Director since Sept. 2023

Cincinnati, OH (December 16, 2024) – Cincinnati Ballet’s Board of Trustees announced today that Cervilio Miguel Amador has been named permanent Artistic Director of Cincinnati Ballet. “The Board of Trustees is thrilled to announce Cervilio Miguel Amador will assume the permanent role of Artistic Director, effective immediately,” said Cincinnati Ballet Board of Trustees Chair Emerson Moser. In September 2023, the Board appointed Mr. Amador Interim Artistic Director. “After a robust and thorough external search process, it became clear that Cervi has a unique passion for and understanding of Cincinnati Ballet that combine to make him well positioned to lead the artistic future of the Company. The Board has been impressed with his performance and stable presence as Interim Artistic Director over the last year, and today’s announcement is affirmation of his leadership capability.” Since his arrival from Cuba 20 years ago, Mr. Amador has been a beloved member of Cincinnati Ballet and the Queen City. While he began as a soloist, he quickly rose through the ranks to principal dancer and established himself as a creative leader in the Company. He retired from the stage following the 2019-2020 Season, after 16 years as a dancer, and made a successful transition to Company rehearsal director before assuming the Interim Artistic Director position. (See above link for extended BIO)

“Cervi immediately took on complex leadership responsibilities as he transitioned from rehearsal director to Interim Artistic Director. He brings to this critical leadership role a deep understanding of Cincinnati Ballet and the community,” said Deborah S. Brant, Cincinnati Ballet President and CEO. “I have enjoyed working with Cervi and look forward to future opportunities for this incredible Company.” “It is an honor to serve as Artistic Director of this Company that I cherish with all my heart. I am passionate about creating new opportunities for our dancers, deepening the Company’s relationship with the community, and elevating Cincinnati Ballet and art form through challenging classical and innovative contemporary repertoire,” Mr. Amador said. “Cincinnati is truly my home. I am proud to have moved my extended family here from Cuba and am raising my three children with my wife, Jackie Damico Amador, in our beautiful Queen City. I am so grateful for the opportunities I have been given and am energized to take the Company to the next level.”

About Cincinnati Ballet Since 1963, Cincinnati Ballet has been the cornerstone professional ballet company of the region, presenting a bold and adventurous array of classical, full-length ballets and contemporary works, regularly with live orchestral accompaniment. Cincinnati Ballet is a creative force within the larger dance community, commissioning world-premiere works and exploring unique collaborations. With a mission to enrich, expand, and excel in the art of dance through performance, a high-caliber academy, and impactful education and community engagement in local to global communities, Cincinnati Ballet reaches beyond the stage in programs that allow every person in the region to be part of the continued evolution of dance. To that end, Cincinnati Ballet presents exhilarating performances, provides extensive education and community engagement programs, and offers top-level professional ballet training at Cincinnati Ballet Otto M. Budig Academy. Cincinnati Ballet is housed at the world-class Margaret and Michael Valentine Center for Dance in Cincinnati’s thriving Walnut Hills arts community.

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December 12, 2024 · 6:34 pm

Cincinnati Shakespeare Company Brings the Always Hilarious EVERY CHRISTMAS STORY EVER TOLD Back for Another Season of Holiday Hilarity

The annual holiday blockbuster comedy “Every Christmas Story Ever Told (and Then Some!)” is playing Dec. 13-29, 2024

Billy Chace, Cary Davenport, Candice Handy, and Geoffrey Warren Barnes II. Photo by Mikki Schaffner.

Cincinnati, November 12, 2024 – Cincinnati Shakespeare Company (CSC) is thrilled to announce the return of its annual holiday blockbuster comedy, “Every Christmas Story Ever Told (And Then Some!)” by Michael Carleton, James Fitzgerald, and John K. Alvarez. Running from December 13-29, 2024, this irreverent and heartwarming production promises a festive evening full of laughs and nostalgia.

What begins as a traditional production of Charles Dickens’ classic “A Christmas Carol” quickly spirals into a side-splitting romp through everyone’s favorite holiday stories. From timeless classics like “It’s a Wonderful Life” and “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” to beloved TV specials like to beloved TV specials like “A Charlie Brown Christmas” and “The Grinch Who Stole Christmas,” no holiday tradition is safe from this whirlwind of humor. The show also features fresh, topical references to pop culture and current events, making each season’s production a unique experience. Content Advisory: PG-13. Features some adult humor and language. Recommended for teens and adults. Not recommended for any theatergoer who still believes in Santa. Contact the Box Office with questions.

This year’s production is again directed by Jeremy Dubin, a long-time CSC actor and director who brings his signature style and comedic timing to the show. The cast includes returning favorites Geoffrey Warren Barnes II, Candice Handy, and Cary Davenport, whose chemistry and comedic talents delighted audiences last season. Joining the ensemble this season is Billy Chace, a CSC veteran making his return to the Christmas show ensemble, having last performed in the show in 2009.

“Every Christmas Story Ever Told (And Then Some!)” runs from December 13 – 29, 2024 for 19 performances. The full schedule is available online at cincyshakes.com/on-stage/every-christmas-2024.

CSC is committed to accessibility and inclusion. An Audio Description service will be available for the performance on Friday, December 13, at 7:30 PM, and the final Saturday matinee on December 28 at 2:00 PM will feature Sign Language Interpretation. Learn more online at cincyshakes.com/your-visit/accessibility.

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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 our Box Office at 513.381.2273. Ticket prices range from $12- $82; don’t pay more!

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

For those seeking last-minute options, $12 Rush Tickets are available to anyone (not just students) starting one hour before each performance. These unreserved tickets, offered in various seating locations, are subject to availability and must be purchased in person at the Box Office within an hour of showtime.

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. Valet parking is available for $25 and self-parking for $15 is available in the adjacent lot. Make advance reservation online the website or contact 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 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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