Category Archives: Press Releases

February 2, 2017 · 6:31 pm

ETC Presents an Engaging Drama with Regional Premiere of WHEN WE WERE YOUNG AND UNAFRAID

etc_when-we-were-young-and-unafraid-logoFebruary 21 – March 12, 2017

(Cincinnati, OH) Ensemble Theatre Cincinnati (ETC) travels back to the 1970s with WHEN WE WERE YOUNG AND UNAFRAID, an intriguing drama by Sarah Treem, one of the writers behind Netflix’s House of Cards and co-creator of Showtime’s award-winning drama The Affair. In this moving piece, a new arrival’s influence forces the residents of an underground women’s shelter to confront their own secrets. This powerful drama explores the passion of youth, the wisdom of age, and the people who awaken us to new possibilities. Playing February 21-March 12, 2017. Directed by Drew Fracher.

In the early 1970s, before Roe v. Wade, before the Violence Against Women Act, Agnes, a single mother and former nurse, has turned her quiet bed and breakfast into one of the few spots where victims of domestic violence can seek refuge. But to Agnes’s dismay, her latest runaway, Mary Anne, is beginning to influence Agnes’s college-bound daughter Penny. As the drums of a feminist revolution grow louder outside of Agnes’s tiny world, Agnes is forced to confront her own presumptions about the women she’s spent her life trying to help.

“I think we’re doing the right play at the right time,” says ETC’s Producing Artistic Director D. Lynn Meyers. “When I chose [When We Were Young and Unafraid], I had no idea our country would be in the place it is now with women’s rights on the table. I was deeply touched by the honesty of Sarah Treem’s piece. It doesn’t play the melodramatic card or work too hard to make a point, it just simply is.” 

About the Cast

Christine Dye (Agnes) last performed at Ensemble Theatre in the Two Weeks with the Queen. She has also appeared onstage in August: Osage County, Riverside, and Sarge, The Clifton Performance Theatre; Dracula, Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park; House of Yes, Untethered Theatre; Jeffery, Parallel Lives, Valhalla, Ovation Theatre; Power Failure, Night of the Iguana, and Bus Stop, New Edgecliff Theatre; Groucho: A Life in Revue, Damn Yankee’s, and Don’t Drink the Water, Showboat Majestic; Steel Magnolias, Covedale Center for the Performing Arts; Vagina Monologues, Miss Reardon Drinks a Little, and Shirley Valentine, Middletown Lyric Theatre; Sarge, CincyFringe Festival. Film credits include Carol, A Case of Murder, Mom and Dad, Aftermath, and First Kill. Ms. Dye was awarded a CityBeat Entertainment Award for Best Actress in a Lead Role for Shirley Valentine and also a League of Cincinnati Theatres Award for Best Supporting Actress in Bus Stop. 

Kat McCaulla (Mary Anne) makes her ETC debut with this production. A current member of the ETC Professional Acting Apprenticeship Company, she graduated from Missouri State University with a BFA in Acting and Minor in Screenwriting. Ms. McCaulla previously attended the Conservatory of Theatre and Dance and has worked at Ozark Actors’ Theatre, Tommy O’s Playhouse, and Springfield Little Theatre. A few of her previous roles include Linda in Cucumbers, Tricia in Dog Sees God: Confessions of a Teenage Blockhead, Violet in It’s A Wonderful Life, Mercy Lewis in The Crucible, and Darlene in The Diviners. Credited assistant directing includes Peter Pan, Into the Woods, Runaways, and Leaving Iowa. She also has directed and written for television and film.

Delaney Ragusa (Penny) was last seen at Ensemble Theatre Cincinnati as Young Violet in Violet. Seen in the Off-Broadway U.S. premiere of A Little Princess, Ms. Ragusa’s other New York performances include two appearances in Lyrics for Life at Symphony Space. Locally, she has played leading roles in Eleemosynary, Ensemble Theatre; A Christmas Carol, Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park; You Can’t Take it With You, SCPA. Film credits include singer/dancer in A Christmas Melody, the Hallmark Channel Movie directed by Mariah Carey.

Zak Schneider (Paul), a Cincinnati native, previously worked as an intern at Ensemble Theatre Cincinnati during the 2013-2014 season, performing and understudying in multiple productions that year. He has since been living in New York City and working at various regional theatres across the country.

Tess Talbot (Hannah) was an ETC intern during the 2012-2013 season and appeared at Ensemble in Around the World in 80 Days, Alice in Wonderland, and Swimming in the Shallows. She is a proud ensemble member with the Cincinnati Shakespeare Company, where her favorite credits include Henrey VI Part 1 and 2, Julius Ceasar, and Death of a Salesman. Ms. Talbot has also performed in Chase the Dragon with Cincinnati LAB Theatre, and Bus Stop with New Edgecliff Theatre. She holds a BFA from Wright State University.

Production team includes Brian c. Mehring (Resident Scenic & Lighting Designer), Jack Murphy (Technical Director), Matthew Hollstegge (Production Manager & Master Electrician), Shannon Rae Lutz (Properties Master & Design Assistant), Matt Callahan (Sound Designer), and Mary Murphy (Costume Designer). Production Stage Manager is Brandon T. Holmes. Assistant Stage Manager is Elizabeth Freyman.  

Performance Information
Performances run Tuesday through Sunday. Tuesday-Thursday, 7:30 pm; Friday and Saturday, 8:00 pm; Saturday and Sunday, 2:00 pm; and Sunday, 7:00 pm. A complete calendar of performances is available online at www.ensemblecincinnati.org.  

Ticket Prices
Ticket prices start at $28 for adults; student tickets are $25; and children are $18. For the 2016-2017 Season, ETC continues its popular $15 student and half-price rush tickets for all performances, which are available two hours prior to show time and may be purchased by phone or in person at the box office.

Available Discounts
Military, Educator, ArtsWave ArtsPass, AAA, and Enjoy the Arts discounts available; tickets and seating are subject to availability.

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Ensemble Theatre Cincinnati is supported, in part, by the generosity of community contributions to the ArtsWave Campaign.

The Ohio Arts Council helps fund Ensemble Theatre Cincinnati with state tax dollars to encourage economic growth, educational excellence and cultural enrichment for all Ohioans. Ensemble Theatre Cincinnati also receives funding from the Shubert Foundation and the National Endowment for the Arts.

2016-2017 Season Presenting Sponsor is the Otto M. Budig Family Foundation. 

Ensemble Theatre Cincinnati is a professional theatre dedicated to producing world and regional premieres of works that often explore compelling social issues. We fulfill our mission through our stage productions and educational outreach programs that enlighten, enliven, enrich and inspire our audiences.

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February 1, 2017 · 11:18 pm

Cincinnati Shakespeare Company Announces the Debut Season at The Otto M. Budig Theater Bringing a Brand New Theatrical Experience Within Reach!

The region’s newest and most unique theatrical experience is now within reach.

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Sara Clark as Puck in A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM. Photo by Mikki Schaffner Photography.

CINCINNATI (February 1, 2017) – Cincinnati Shakespeare Company (CSC) announced the titles for its Debut Season at The Otto M. Budig Theater in an event on February 1. This Summer, CSC will move into the custom-built Otto M. Budig Theater for the 2017-2018 season with the Grand Opening on September 8, 2017. CSC’s 2017-2018 Season is generously sponsored by The Otto M. Budig Family Foundation and all productions will feature Cincinnati Shakespeare Company’s Resident Company of Actors.

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Miranda McGee as Lucy and Giles Davies as Dracula in DRACULA. Photo by Mikki Schaffner Photography.

“It is my immense pleasure to introduce the titles of our Debut Season at The Otto M. Budig Theater,” said Producing Artistic Director, Brian Isaac Phillips who is celebrating his 15thAnniversary as leader of Cincinnati Shakespeare Company. “These universal classics of the stage and innovative literary adaptations complement our favorite playwright, William Shakespeare, and his timeless tales of love, betrayal, desire, despair and exaltation.  Because we will be bringing you closer to our performance and our actors than ever before, all of the passion and power of our stage is within your reach.”

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Cary Davenport as Tom Sawyer in THE ADVENTURES OF TOM SAWYER. Photo by Mikki Schaffner Photography.

The Early Bird presale over the past few weeks before the titles have been announced was the largest on record for Cincinnati Shakespeare Company. There were 3 times as many subscriptions purchased in this time frame vs. last year!  Audiences are encouraged to subscribe now to secure their seats before single tickets go on sale to the public March 1, 2017.  Subscription information can be found at http://www.cincyshakes.com. 

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Darnell Pierre Benjamin as John Prentice in GUESS WHO’S COMING TO DINNER. Photo by Mikki Schaffner Photography.

World Class Productions Within Reach

The inaugural production in The Otto M. Budig will be William Shakespeare’s “A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM” playing September 8- 30, 2017.  “This is the perfect Shakespeare comedy to welcome old audiences and new into our new home” said Mr. Phillips. “The play celebrates the power of love to transform and it will be a delight to present this magical comedy as our company transforms.”

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Maggie Lou Rader as Maggie in CAT ON A HOT TIN ROOF. Photo by Mikki Schaffner Photography.

The remaining 2017-2018 Season line-up is as follows, including a statement from Producing Artistic Director, Brian Isaac Phillips explaining his selection: 

Special Event*
DRACULA
By Steven Dietz
From the novel by Bram Stoker
October 13- November 4, 2017

  • To thrill!  “This roller coaster of an adaptation moves like an action movie and will be the perfect ‘theatrical haunted house’ during the Halloween season.”

THE ADVENTURES OF TOM SAWYER
by Laura Eason
Adapted from the novel by Mark Twain
November 17- December 9, 2017

  • To gather!  “This play is a celebration of childhood, adventure, and imagination.  It is the perfect evening to spend with the entire family and reflect on a childhood past or inspire a childhood in progress.  We are also excited to be presenting our first play based on a work by Mark Twain on our stage.” 

Special Event*
EVERY CHRISTMAS STORY EVER TOLD (AND THEN SOME!)
by Michael Carleton, James FitzGerald and John K. Alvarez
December 21- 31, 2017

  • To make merry with everyone!  “This will be the 12th anniversary production of this beloved holiday classic but now reimagined on our brand new stage.  This play is not only a tradition for many but it also welcomes new people every year to come and make merry with us.”

GUESS WHO’S COMING TO DINNER
By Todd Kreidler
Based on the screenplay “Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner” by William Rose
January 26- February 17, 2018

  • To engage!  “CSC wishes to continuing feeding the dialogue surrounding inclusion on stage and off.  This is a friendly play that challenges the audience to debate how far we have come since 1967 in our ideas surrounding inclusion when it comes to marriage and family.”

William Shakespeare’s
OTHELLO
March 2-24, 2018

  • To inspire! “The intimate nature and contemporary themes of this Shakespeare tragedy provides a great opportunity for us to show our audience how relevant the Bard is today.  A contemporary setting will inspire innovative staging and design, as well as reveal to our audiences why Shakespeare is for and about everyone.”

CAT ON A HOT TIN ROOF
By Tennessee Williams
April 6-28, 2018

  • To challenge! “This American classic about one man’s struggle to be who he is, and confront his father about that reality, is a provocative drama by one of America’s greatest playwrights.”

NOISES OFF
By Michael Frayn
May 18- June 9, 2018

  • To laugh!  “This is one of the funniest comedies of all time and has been a long time dream of mine to produce at Cincinnati Shakespeare Company.  This crowd pleaser will feature seating on the thrust stage and really show off the flexible nature of our new theater!”

*Not part of the subscription package. 

The Best Seats in the House are Within Reach
“One of the things we are known for is a high level of intimacy- our audience feels that with our Resident Company of actors as well as their proximity to the stage,” said Mr. Phillips.  “In the brand new Otto M. Budig Theater, all seats are less than 20 feet from the stage. This means that the best seats in the house are within everyone’s reach.  And because every seat is going to be a wonderful experience, all of them will have the same price.”

One of the features of The Otto M. Budig Theater is an Upper Gallery. This is a row that is above the Lower Galley, sometimes referred to as a Balcony or Mezzanine level. The Upper Gallery overhangs the Lower Gallery at Row E on the sides and Row F in the center. Even sitting in Row G in the Upper Gallery, you are still within 20 feet from the stage!

Cincinnati Shakespeare Company will now have a stage experience like Cincinnati has never seen before. Action will be taking place on the thrust of the stage (the portion that projects into the house) as well as deep into the stage space. Actors will also be performing in the aisles and in the Upper Gallery. “Directors are adept at creating an experience that is immersive and takes into consideration each vantage point for all patrons,” said Mr. Phillips. “We are encouraging our patrons to try different locations during the season throughout the theater to find their new favorite seat!” 

Access for all is Within Reach
“We are immensely proud of the improved accessibility the new Otto M. Budig Theater offers our community,” says Mr. Phillips. “There are 5 wheelchair accessible seats in the new theater located in the Lower Gallery and in the Upper Gallery to offer varied options.”  There is a ramp to enter the Lower Gallery and an elevator to reach the Upper Gallery. “We also have included gender neutral restrooms on the 2nd floor of the building,” continues Mr. Phillips. “The comfort and access to ALL people was of paramount importance in the design of this state-of-the-art new facility.”

For more details on seating information as well as additional detailed information on accessibility features, please visit: www.cincyshakes.com/DebutSeasonSeatingInfo

Internationally Influenced Design Within Reach
The Otto M. Budig Theater boasts many state-of-the-art features that were heavily influenced by venues across the globe.  The stunning interior and exterior draws inspiration from some of the greatest theaters in the world including the Royal National Theatre and Shakespeare’s Globe in London, the Royal Shakespeare Company’s Swan Theatre in Stratford-upon-Avon, and The Stratford Festival in Ontario, Canada. “You’ll also see a glass entrance and glass that wraps most of the lower level helping create an engaging facade that activates the street corner,” says Mr. Phillips. The glass walls at the entrance also give transparency for pedestrians to view activity inside and for patrons to look out on the green space of Washington Park.

Inside the highly visible area of the elegant and dynamic entrance, is the bar and gathering space.  This lobby offers a space to socialize before and after shows and during intermissions.  The bar structure will be fully clad in reclaimed barn wood and the social space will be illuminated with lighting inspired by a starry night, giving a nod to the original practice of Shakespeare being performed outdoors.

Situated in the beautiful lobby of the new theatre, the Grand Stair has 38 steps to represent the 38 plays in Shakespeare’s Canon and to commemorate CSC’s Completion of the Canon in 2014 as one of the 1st 5 theaters in the U.S.  Pre and post show talks with students and patrons will be held in the lobby with the Grand Stair serving as additional casual seating. The staircase also brings patrons to the second level balcony, actors and students to the Education Performance Studio, and connects the lobby to the upper level which doubles as an event space for patron dinners, opening night receptions, community organization meetings and various other functions.  The rehearsal space will be visible from outside bringing exciting energy to the corner of 12th and Elm. 

A Vibrant Community Within Reach
The stunning new Otto M. Budig Theater anchors the Classical Arts Corridor of Cincinnati’s thriving Over the Rhine (OTR) neighborhood. The cities most exciting restaurants, breweries, pubs, distilleries, shops, galleries, and more are enticingly close to the theater, making a unique and intimate evening well within your grasp.  There is ample parking available as well as direct access to two different Streetcar Stops. 

A Flexible Season Subscription is Within Reach
Cincinnati Shakespeare Company continues to offer audiences great value with affordable, flexible subscriptions that include six flexible tickets that can be used in any combination for any performance. Adult Subscriptions are $266, Senior Subscriptions are $237, and Student Subscriptions are $142.  Budget-conscious patrons can also subscribe to the company’s preview series.  A Preview Subscription is just $163 and includes six tickets that can be used for any preview performance, typically Wednesday and Thursday evenings before Opening Night (ForMidsummer, preview subscriptions are valid on Sep. 14 or 15 only).  All subscriptions are currently on sale now and may be purchased through the Cincinnati Shakespeare Company website http://www.cincyshakes.com or box office by calling 513-381-BARD (2273) ext. 1.  Single tickets for all shows will go on sale March 1, 2017 but the recommended way to get the best price and first access to seats is by becoming a subscriber!  There are also discounts available for students, seniors, local residents, and community partners.

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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 audiences of all ages.  Currently located in the heart of downtown Cincinnati, CSC produces a dozen mainstage productions each season.

In September 2017, CSC will open a new theatre- The Otto M. Budig Theater- at 12th and Elm Streets, in the heart of Over-the-Rhine. The new facility incorporates space for modern theatrical technology, increased seating capacity and lobby, expanded education and community outreach opportunities, as well as on-site production areas and administrative offices. The theatre is the “finale” of the “Classical Arts Corridor” connecting Music Hall, Memorial Hall, the School for Creative and Performing Arts, and Washington Park.

CSC’s repertoire is made up of the works of William Shakespeare, literary adaptations, and contemporary classics. CSC performs on a Small Professional Theatre contract with Actors’ Equity Association. Cincinnati Shakespeare is a member of the Theatre Communications Group and the Shakespeare Theatre Association.  Cincinnati Shakespeare Company’s Education and Outreach Programs reached over 50,000 young people and underserved community members each season by taking Shakespeare into schools, parks, community centers and by hosting educational matinees of mainstage productions.  In 2014, 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! 

About The 2017-2018 Season:
This season is generously sponsored by The Otto M. Budig Family Foundation.  Cincinnati Shakespeare Company receives operating support from The Ohio Arts Council, the Shubert Foundation and is supported, in part, by the generosity of thous  ands of individuals and businesses that give annually to ArtsWave. The Ohio Arts Council helped fund this program/organization with state tax dollars to encourage economic growth, educational excellence and cultural enrichment for all Ohioans. Production dates and information on the season are available online at http://www.cincyshakes.com.

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February 1, 2017 · 6:11 pm

2017-2018 Season Announced at Lebanon Theatre Company

LTC_logoLebanon Theatre Company is delighted to announce our 2017-2018 slate of shows! Specific audition and show dates to follow.

July 2017- GODSPELL
This will be the 2nd installment of our annual summer show! This popular musical from Stephen Schwartz, the creator of Wicked and Children of Eden, is sure to delight audiences young and old. Directed by Karen Oehler.

*September 2017- GUYS AND DOLLS
This beloved classic needs no introduction. A romantic comedy where the stakes are high and luck is a fickle mistress. Get your tickets early for this one (unless you like to roll the dice!) Directed by Cherie Cooper-Darragh

October 2017- THE SEANCE
Back by popular demand, our resident paranormal expert will conjure another evening of eerie delights. This show has limited seating, and is not recommended for young children.

*March 2018- ALMOST, MAINE
This oddball romantic comedy is set in the mythical town of Almost, Maine, where residents find themselves falling in and out of love in unexpected and often hilarious ways. This show has been one of the top-10 most produced shows in the nation for the past decade. Directed by Kurt Percy

*May 2018- THE FOREIGNER
In a resort-style fishing lodge in rural Georgia, the plot revolves around the visit of two guests, Englishmen Charlie Baker and a pathologically shy young man named Charlie, who is overcome with fear at the thought of making conversation with strangers. So “Froggy,” before departing, tells all assembled that Charlie is from an exotic foreign country and speaks no English. Once alone the fun really begins, as Charlie overhears more than he should—
This two-act comedy is sure to leave audiences in stitches. Directed by Wayne Dunn

*included in season ticket subscription

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January 31, 2017 · 7:00 pm

ROCKTOPIA: A Classical (R)evolution | Sun., April 1 | Aronoff Center

ONE NIGHT ONLY!caa_rocktopia-logoROCKTOPIA ANNOUNCES CAST OF INAUGURAL NATIONAL TOUR

CO-CREATORS ROB EVAN AND MAESTRO RANDALL CRAIG FLEISCHER ASSEMBLE WORLD CLASS PERFORMERS FOR ROCKTOPIA CAST

Saturday, April 1, 2017 – 8:00 PM

Aronoff Center – Procter & Gamble Hall 

TICKETS ON SALE NOW! 

Music from Mozart to U2, Beethoven to Pink Floyd, This Live Concert Is a
Powerful Fusion of Classical Music, Opera and Classic Rock   

Now a PBS-TV Special Filmed Live at the Hungarian State Opera House in Budapest

CINCINNATI, OH  –RTT is thrilled to announce the cast of the inaugural live concert tour ROCKTOPIA: A Classical (R)evolution.   ROCKTOPIA Co-Creators, vocalist and recording artist Rob Evan, a member of the multi-platinum-selling rock band, Trans- Siberian Orchestra; and Maestro Randall Craig Fleischer, a national leader in the area of symphonic rock and world music fusion have collaborated to bring together a world class cast of vocalists and musicians. ROCKTOPIA LIVE will debut at the Aronoff Center’s Procter & Gamble Hall for one night only on Saturday, April 1, 2017 at 8:00 PM.

Tickets are on sale now at www.CincinnatiArts.org, (513) 621-ARTS [2787], and the Aronoff Center Ticket Office.

This groundbreaking live concert performance celebrating the combination of classical music and opera with classic rock features world-class vocalists and top rock musicians including renowned vocalists Rob Evan, Chloe Lowery, Kimberly Nichole, Tony Vincent, Ximena Borges and esteemed musicians Tony Bruno, Alex Alexander, Mat Fieldes and Henry Aronson. 

Accomplished actor, singer and producer Rob Evan’s 20 years in the entertainment profession includes seven leading roles on Broadway and performances at Presidential Inaugural Galas, World Series Celebrations, the Millennium World Forum and Monday Night Football.  A member of the multi-platinum-selling rock band, Trans- Siberian Orchestra, Rob has opened and performed with Sir Elton John, REM, Joe Walsh, Usher and Michael Crawford among others.  As co- creator of ROCKTOPIA he will be on stage with vocalist Chloe Lowery another member of Trans-Siberian Orchestra and featured on Yanni’s 2013, 2014 and 2016 releases: Truth of Touch, Inspirato, and Sensuous Chill.  Tony Vincent Broadway star of Rent who also originated the role of St. Jimmy in Green Day’s American Idiot and competed on NBC’s The VOICE on Team Ce-Lo joins Kimberly Nichole, another VOICE veteran as a winning finalist in Season 8. She has been described as an “Avant-Rock n Roll” song stylist and songwriter by VOGUE, Seventeen Magazine and MTV UK.  Classically trained Opera star Ximena Borges has traveled the world from the Lyon Conservatory in France to the Bayerische Staatsoper in Munich, Germany to study under the tutelage of Opera’s most legendary teachers including Bill Schuman, Mariena Malas and more.   ROCKTOPIA musicians include lead guitarist Tony Bruno, guitarist for such musical giants as Enrique Iglesias, Rihanna, E K’naan, Karmin, Delta Goodrem and many others. Multi genre drummer and percussionist Alex Alexander who has recorded with an eclectic mix of performers Eminem, Chaka Kahn and Bruce Springsteen.  Grammy Nominated Bassist Mat Fieldes and Musical Director, Pianist Henry Aronson, one of the most in demand music directors in the Broadway theater and conductor of The Who’s Tommy and the Broadway run of Rock of Ages make up the ROCKTOPIA musicians roster.

This electric cast along with local orchestras and choirs will launch a 4-week national tour beginning  March 28 in Portland, Maine continuing to Reading, Pennsylvania March 29; Albany, New York March 30; Greensburg, Pennsylvania March 31; Cincinnati, Ohio April 1; Ft. Wayne, Indiana April 2; Davenport, Iowa April 4; Peoria, Illinois April 5; Kansas City, Missouri April 6; Joliet, Illinois April 7; Columbus, Ohio April 8; E. Lansing, Michigan April 9;  Buffalo, New York April 11, Detroit, Michigan April 12; Cleveland, Ohio April 13; Baltimore, Maryland April 14;  Charlotte, North Carolina April 15; Ft. Lauderdale, Florida April 18; Jacksonville, Florida April 19; Atlanta, Georgia April 20; Melbourne, Florida April 21; Tampa, Florida April 22 and Pensacola, Florida April 23.  Complete tour dates, venues and ticket information can be found on www.rocktopia.com.

ROCKTOPIA is an inspiring and uplifting entertainment spectacle that brings a whole new way of enjoying the best of classical music and classic rock to audiences.  ROCKTOPIA delivers one-of-a-kind musical arrangements blending Beethoven with Journey, Strauss with The Who, and more in musical mash-ups that surprise and delight.  Musically arranged by Maestro Randall Craig Fleischer, the concert showcases the works of classical composers as well as rock bands, including the music of Mozart, Journey, Handel, U2, Tchaikovsky, Heart, Beethoven, Styx, Foreigner, Rachmaninoff, Pink Floyd, Copland, The Who and more.  

ROCKTOPIA performances creates an incredible dynamic concert experience sure to blow audiences away as proven in Budapest at the State Hungarian Opera House, now a PBS TV special airing in cities across the United States.

For complete bios, tour and ticket information visit www.rocktopia.com. 

View/Download  Video here

View/Download Photos here 

About RTT
ROCKTOPIA is produced and presented by RTT.  The company is headed by William Franzblau, Rob Evan and Maggie Seidel-Law who collectively have been creating, producing and presenting national tours, Broadway shows and concerts worldwide for over 30 years.  William Franzblau has produced such award- winning shows as the Tony Nominated Best Play Say Goodnight Gracie, and the tour of LITTLE HOUSE on the PRAIRIE the Musical starring Melissa Gilbert.  Maggie Seidel-Law has spearheaded multiple tours and live entertainment events associated with PBS including the global phenomenon Celtic Woman.  ROCKTOPIA will be RTT’s first project and will tour through 20+ US cities in the spring of 2017.  Their offices are located in New York, NY and Nashville, TN.

About Rob Evan
Rob Evan is an accomplished actor, singer and producer with 20 years of professional experience in the entertainment industry.  During the span of his diverse career, he has performed in seven leading roles on the New York Stage including the original Broadway cast of Jekyll & Hyde, playing the title roles for three years and over 1,000 performances worldwide. As a vocalist and recording artist, Rob is a member of the multi-platinum-selling rock band, Trans- Siberian Orchestra. He can be heard on TSO’s The Lost Christmas Eve (Certified Double Platinum – Lava/Atlantic) and their latest release, Nightcastle, which debuted at #5 on Billboard’s Top 100 (currently certified Platinum – Atlantic Records). He has played in arenas across the country and the world for up to 20,000 people per show. Rob has toured Europe and the US with TSO as Beethoven in TSO’s Rock Opera, Beethoven’s Last Night. Rob has opened for and performed with Sir Elton John, Trisha Yearwood, Linda Eder, Phil Collins, REM, Bonnie Tyler, John Cougar Mellencamp, Joe Walsh, Usher and Michael Crawford, among others. He was also lead vocalist for Jim Steinman’s The Dream Engine and recently released the debut album for his progressive rock band, Menrva Realm.

About Randall Craig Fleischer
Mr. Fleischer has appeared as a guest conductor with many major orchestras in the United States and internationally including engagements with the Boston Pops, China Philharmonic Hong Kong Philharmonic, Israel Philharmonic, Los Angeles Philharmonic, San Francisco Symphony, Houston Symphony, Philly Pops, Moscow State Symphony, St. Paul Chamber Orchestra, Seattle Symphony, Utah Symphony, San Diego Symphony, Philadelphia Chamber Orchestra, Los Angeles Chamber Orchestra, Festival Cesky Krumlov (Czech Republic) and many others.   “…There was purpose and meaning in the performance, and Fleischer let the lyricism of the music flow in seamless lines.” Deseret News – Salt Lake City, Utah.  As Music Director/Conductor of three symphony orchestras, Youngstown Symphony, Hudson Valley Philharmonic and the Anchorage Symphony, Mr. Fleischer has led each orchestra through a dramatic period of artistic growth, demonstrating his abilities as a proven orchestra builder. This sounds like a different symphony orchestra, and this season should be an exciting experience.“ Arizona Daily Sun 1998. “The HVP’s music director was heartily affirmed by the extended standing ovation.” Times Herald Record.

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January 30, 2017 · 6:21 pm

The Human Race Theatre Company Announces Its 2017-2018 Eichelberger Loft Season

“Dayton’s Official Theatre Company” presents a season of laughs with new and modern classic comedies for its 31st Season

hrtc_red-logo(Dayton, OH) — The Human Race Theatre Company is proud to introduce the lineup for its 2017-2018 Eichelberger Loft Season – a five-show collection of works that are sure to entertain as the organization begins its third decade of producing high-caliber professional theatre for Miami Valley audiences. The season, featuring one new musical and four plays, begins September 7, 2017.

The 2017–2018 Eichelberger Loft Season opens with the American premiere of a hilarious and inspiring new musical about the power of fantasy – Andrea Daly and Jeff Bienstock’s Legendale(September 7 – October 1, 2017); followed by the Midwest premiere of Brian Parks’ comedy of home buying gone horribly wrong, The House (November 2 – 19, 2017); Laura Eason’s popular story of dating in the modern world, Sex with Strangers (February 1 – 18, 2018); Neil Simon’s heartwarming story of family, Brighton Beach Memoirs (April 5 – 22, 2018); and closes with The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (abridged) [revised] (May 31 – June 24, 2018), an irreverent roller-coaster ride through the Bard’s canon by Adam Long, Daniel Singer and Jess Winfield and featuring a three-person ensemble lead by Human Race Resident Artist Bruce Cromer.

“It’s rare that we produce a season with an underlying theme,” says Human Race President and Artistic Director Kevin Moore, “but with the recent stressful and uncertain times of late, we saw this as a golden opportunity to do our best to lighten the mood.” While the selection of shows does not shy away from the company’s mission of sharing stories that tell the human condition, Moore took great consideration to choose scripts that had great comedic elements to them. “Some of the humor is very clever, some of it is dry. There’s also a great deal of over-the-top, roll-on-the-floor outrageous physical comedy. But best of all, these are—at their heart—just incredible stories with fascinating characters. We have the elements of fantasy, modern day farce, intimacy, nostalgia and audience participation. What’s not to love?”

The five plays perform in the Loft Theatre, The Human Race’s intimate 212-seat downtown performance space, located in the Metropolitan Arts Center at 126 North Main Street. Throughout the productions’ scheduled three- and four-week runs are a number of associated special events: a Thursday night preview performance, preceded by the “Inside Track” discussion with the director; Friday Opening Night with a free post-show party with the cast; Lite Fare at the Loft, a Tuesday night pre-show dining in the Loft Lobby, with food items provided by Citilites Restaurant; a “While We’re on the Subject” talkback following a Sunday matinee; and a Saturday night signed and audio-described performance opportunity.

Season Lineup video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=phHB4-4-c44

THE 2017-2018 EICHELBERGER LOFT SEASON LINEUP

LEGENDALE
Music by Andrea Daly
Book and lyrics by Jeff Bienstock
Story by Bienstock and Daly
American Premiere
September 7 – October 1, 2017

Andy’s favorite way to escape his miserable job and humdrum life is the online game “Legendale.” He dreams of victory in its new tournament and winning the $100,000 prize, but is stuck competing as a lowly milkmaid. When things in the online world suddenly take a strange turn, Andy and his avatar must both discover their inner warrior. A blend of romance, adventure and virtual reality with a pop-infused score, it’s an inspiring tale like no other that’s sure to delight.

THE HOUSE
by Brian Parks
Midwest Premiere
November 2 – 19, 2017

After twenty years in their dream house, Martyn and Shanny Redmond are downsizing and just sold the home directly to the perfect thirtysomething couple, Fischer and Lindsay Libett. Or so they thought. Sure that the Libetts will keep the place exactly as they’re leaving it, the Redmonds invite them for drinks, casual conversation and to hand over the keys. But when Fischer and Lindsay reveal they are planning major renovations, Martyn and Shanny have second thoughts and a pleasant get together becomes an outrageously hilarious battle of wills with over-the-top results.

“If the laugh meter had been on, the opening night audience would have broken it, as the onstage antics prompted grins and guffaws and outright howling.” – Ithaca Journal

SEX WITH STRANGERS
by Laura Eason
February 1 – 18, 2018

Failed novelist Olivia meets Ethan, a celebrated (and much younger) writer made famous by his sexcapade tell-all blog, at a snowbound bed and breakfast, and their mutual attraction quickly gets hot and heavy. As a weekend tryst develops into a long-term romance, their personal and professional lives collide. Ethan seeks legitimacy, dismissing his bad boy reputation as nothing more than an invented character. Olivia has her doubts, but craves for the literary fame Ethan can offer her. Ambition, identity and trust are in play when online personas clash with real world expectations in this smart, steamy take on modern love.

“A sexy romantic comedy strictly for grown-ups…a bodice ripper with a brain.” – The Washington Post

BRIGHTON BEACH MEMOIRS
by Neil Simon
April 5 – 22, 2018

He has holes in his shoes and liver on the dinner table, but all teenage Eugene Jerome can think of is girls, baseball and writing—in that order. There’s hardly a moment’s peace in a house filled with his domineering mother, over-worked father, and worldly older brother, not to mention his widowed aunt and her two maturing daughters. Simon’s semi-autobiographical comedy about growing up in a crowded, lower middle class home in 1937 Brooklyn is a touching coming-of-age classic that proves no matter how crazy life gets, family can make it crazier.

“Hilarious comedy…His finest play…A delightful and enriching experience.” – CBS TV

THE COMPLETE WORKS OF WILLIAM SHAKESPEARE (ABRIDGED) [REVISED]
by Adam Long, Daniel Singer and Jess Winfield
May 31 – June 24, 2018

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 Shakespearean actors, Human Race Resident Artist Bruce Cromer.

“If you like Shakespeare, you’ll like this show. If you hate Shakespeare, you’ll love this show!” – The Today Show

SUBSCRIPTIONS AND TICKETS
Subscriptions are available in 3-, 4- and 5-show packages, as well as in Flex Pass plans. Package prices range from $99 – $206, and discounted subscriptions are available for students. Current 2016-2017 season subscribers can guarantee their seats by renewing before April 24, and reservations for new subscriptions can be made now to be seated starting May 8. Both renewing and new subscribers may place their orders with Ticket Center Stage by calling (937) 228-3630 or by visiting the Schuster Center Box Office. Productions, performance dates and ticket prices are subject to change. Single tickets to LEGENDALE go on sale May 30, with tickets to future productions on sale later in the season.

More ticketing and performance information on The Human Race Theatre Company’s 2017-2018 and 2016-2017 Loft seasons are available online at www.humanracetheatre.org or by calling Ticket Center Stage at (937) 228-3630, and at the Schuster Center box office.

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Now celebrating its 30th anniversary, The Human Race Theatre Company was founded in 1986 and moved into the Metropolitan Arts Center in 1991, taking up residence at the 212-seat Loft Theatre. In addition to the Eichelberger Loft Season, The Human Race produces new works development and special event programming. Under the direction of President and Artistic Director Kevin Moore, the company also maintains education and outreach programs for children, teens and adults, as well as artist residencies in area schools, an In-School Tour, and a summer youth program. Human Race organizational support is provided by Culture Works, the Montgomery County Arts and Cultural District, the Shubert Foundation, the Erma R. Catterton Trust Fund, the Jesse & Caryl Philips Foundation, the Virginia W. Kettering Foundation and the Ohio Arts Council, which helped fund this organization with state tax dollars to encourage economic growth, educational excellence and cultural enrichment for all Ohioans. The 2016-2017 Sustainability Sponsors are the ELM Foundation, Anne F. Johnson, Steve and Lou Mason, and Morris Home. The 2016-2017 Loft season sponsor is the Jack W. and Sally D. Eichelberger Foundation of the Dayton Foundation, with additional support from Premier Health.

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