Category Archives: Press Releases

November 13, 2015 · 12:30 pm

IF/THEN, DISNEY’S BEAUTY AND THE BEAST and CABARET All on Sale Now!‏

TICKETS ON SALE NOW
BIC_IfThen logo2NATIONAL TOUR COMES TO CINCINNATI
February 2 – 7, 2016
Aronoff Center

“THE BEST MUSICAL OF THE YEAR!
In its formal daring, and in the intelligence of its execution, IF/THEN moves into new territory with intense and thrilling results.  Every single thing in this show is new – you absolutely never know what is going to happen, right up to the last, powerfully moving beat.” – New York Magazine 

“A SMART, DEEPLY TOUCHING AND BIG-HEARTED NEW MUSICAL. Tom Kitt and Brian Yorkey’s score is invested with melodic urgency, bringing you to tears or breathlessness.” -Washington Post

“A THOROUGHLY FASCINATING, INTELLECTUALLY AND MUSICALLY RICH NEW MUSICAL.

It is not an adaptation of anything, but a very compelling and involving idea. Tom Kitt and Brian Yorkey’s beautiful score hits an especially sweet spot, keeping the audience in its pocket. It is a zesty, savvy and ambitious original.” -Chicago Tribune 

“THE BRAVEST NEW MUSICAL IN A LONG TIME. It is one of the very few new Broadway shows that actually looks and sounds like the world of today.” –Toronto Star

Original Broadway Company of IF/THEN. Photo by Joan Marcus.

Original Broadway Company of IF/THEN. Photo by Joan Marcus.

Cincinnati – Tickets for the National Tour of IF/THEN, which was named the “Best Musical of the Year” by New York Magazine, are on sale now. IF/THEN will perform a limited one week Cincinnati engagement February 2 – 7, 2016 at the Aronoff Center as a part of the 2015/2016 Broadway in Cincinnati season presented by TriHealth. Tickets are available at the Aronoff Center Box Office downtown at 650 Walnut Street, online at CincinnatiArts.org or by phone at 513.621.ARTS. Group orders of ten or more may be placed by calling 513.369.4363.

IF/THEN is an original Broadway musical written by Tom Kitt (music) and Brian Yorkey (book and lyrics), and directed byMichael Greif, the creative team behind the Pulitzer Prize and Tony Award-winning musical, Next to Normal.

IF/THEN is a contemporary new musical that follows two distinct storylines in the life of Elizabeth, a city planner who moves back to New York to restart her life in that city of infinite possibilities. When her carefully designed plans collide with the whims of fate, Elizabeth’s life splits in to two parallel paths. IF/THEN follows both stories simultaneously as this modern woman faces the intersection of choice and chance.

IF/THEN features choreography by Larry Keigwin, set design by Tony Award-Nominee Mark Wendland, costume design by Emily Rebholz, lighting design by Tony Award-Winner Kenneth Posner and sound design by Tony Award-Winner Brian Ronan. Casting is by Telsey + Company/Craig Burns, CSA.  Mark Myars is the Associate Choreographer.

IF/THEN will play the Aronoff Center from February 2 – 7, 2016: Tuesday – Thursday at 7:30PM, Friday at 8:00PM, Saturday at 2:00PM and 8:00PM and Sunday at 1:00PM and 6:30PM. Tickets for IF/THEN start at $29. They are available at the Aronoff Center Box Office downtown at 650 Walnut Street, online at CincinnatiArts.org or by phone at513.621.ARTS. For groups of 10 or more, contact the group sales department at 513.369.4363. Performance schedule, prices and cast are subject to change without notice. For more information, please visit www.BroadwayInCincinnati.com.

Casting for the National Tour of IF/THEN will be announced in early December.

The original Broadway Cast Recording of IF/THEN was released by Sony Masterworks and is available on iTunes.

For more information about IF/THEN, please visit IfThenTheMusical.com.                                                                 

#  #  #

 BIC_Beauty and the Beast logo2

NETworks presents
DISNEY’S BEAUTY AND THE BEAST 

The smash hit Broadway musical returns to Cincinnati’s Aronoff Center
April 20 – 24, 2016. 

Ryan Everett Wood as the Beast & Jillian Butterfield as Belle. Photo by Matthew Murphy.

Ryan Everett Wood as the Beast & Jillian Butterfield as Belle. Photo by Matthew Murphy.

Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, the award-winning worldwide smash hit Broadway musical, is returning to Cincinnati as a season special for Fifth Third Bank Broadway in Cincinnati presented by TriHealth and tickets are on sale now.  Produced by NETworks Presentations, this elaborate theatrical production will come to life on stage at the Aronoff Center, April 20 – 24, 2016. Tickets are available at the Aronoff Center Box Office downtown at 650 Walnut Street, online atCincinnatiArts.org or by phone at 513.621.ARTS. Group orders of ten or more may be placed by calling 513.369.4363. For information on the production, visit www.BeautyAndTheBeastOnTour.com.

Disney’s Beauty and the Beast features the Academy Award®-winning score with music by Alan Menken and lyrics by the late Howard Ashman, with additional songs composed by Alan Menken and lyrics by Tim Rice. The book is written by Linda Woolverton.

The original creators of the Broadway production have reunited for this new touring production. The play is directed by Rob Roth and choreographed by Matt West, with Costume Design by Ann Hould-Ward (Tony Award® winner for her work on Disney’s Beauty and the Beast), Lighting Design by Natasha Katz (five-time Tony Award® winner), Scenic Design by Stanley A. Meyer, Sound Design by John Petrafesa Jr. and Music Supervision by Michael Kosarin. 

Disney’s Beauty and the Beast is the classic story of Belle, a young woman in a provincial town, and the Beast, who is really a young prince trapped in a spell placed by an enchantress.  If the Beast can learn to love and be loved, the curse will end and he will be transformed to his former self. But time is running out. If the Beast does not learn his lesson soon, he and his household will be doomed for all eternity.

Based on the 1991 Academy Award®-winning animated feature film and celebrating 21 years since its Broadway premiere in 1994, Disney’s Beauty and the Beast is the ninth longest running musical in Broadway history that has become an international sensation seen by over 35 million people worldwide in 22 countries, and translated into 9 different languages. This production launched in February 2010 and has been seen nearly 3 million people while playing over 1,500 performances in all 50 United States and 8 Canadian Provinces.  Currently, there are five productions playing around the world including the North American Tour, Paris, tours in Japan and Germany, and a new international tour (inspired by the North American tour) that will visit over 14 countries in two years.

Disney’s Beauty and the Beast will play the Aronoff Center from April 20 – 24, 2016: Wednesday – Thursday at 7:30PM, Friday at 8:00PM, Saturday at 11:00AM, 2:00PM and 8:00PM and Sunday at 1:00PM and 6:30PM. Tickets for Disney’s Beauty and the Beast start at $29. They are available at the Aronoff Center Box Office downtown at 650 Walnut Street, online at CincinnatiArts.org or by phone at 513.621.ARTS. For groups of 10 or more, contact the group sales department at 513.369.4363. Performance schedule, prices and cast are subject to change without notice. For more information, please visit www.BroadwayInCincinnati.com.

# # # 

“Five stars! WILLKOMMEN HOME. A Broadway jewel returns in all its glittering glory.” –Time Out New York

“Truly unmissable! Even if you saw it last time, you are strongly advised – no, URGED – to return.” –USA Today 

“Sam Mendes & Rob Marshall’s production is thrilling!” – Hollywood Reporter

BIC_Cabaret logo2

TICKETS FOR THE CINCINNATI PREMIERE OF
ROUNDABOUT THEATRE COMPANY’S
TONY AWARD® -WINNING PRODUCTION OF CABARET
ARE ON SALE NOW! 

THE BROADWAY IN CINCINNATI ENGAGEMENT
RUNS MAY 10-22, 2016

2014 Broadway Cast of Roundabout Theatre Company’s CABARET . Photo by Joan Marcus.

2014 Broadway Cast of Roundabout Theatre Company’s CABARET . Photo by Joan Marcus.

Individual tickets for the Cincinnati premiere of Roundabout Theatre Company’s CABARET are on sale now! Tickets are available at the Aronoff Center Box Office downtown at 650 Walnut Street, online at CincinnatiArts.org or by phone at 513.621.ARTS.

As part of their 50th Anniversary Season, the critically acclaimed and award-winning Roundabout Theatre Company is proud to present, direct from Broadway, the national tour of SAM MENDES (Skyfall, American Beauty) and ROB MARSHALL’s (Into the Woods and Chicago, the films) Tony Award®-winning production of CABARET, playing May 10-22, 2016 at the Aronoff Center as part of the 2015-2016 Fifth Third Bank Broadway in Cincinnati Season presented by TriHealth. Group orders of ten or more may be placed by calling 513.369.4363.

JOHN KANDER, FRED EBB and JOE MASTEROFF’s Tony-winning musical features some of the most memorable songs in theatre history, including “Cabaret,” “Willkommen” and “Maybe This Time.” CABARET is set in the infamous Kit Kat Klub, where the Emcee, Sally Bowles and a raucous ensemble take the stage nightly to tantalize the crowd––and to leave their troubles outside.

Roundabout Theatre Company’s acclaimed production of CABARET opened in Spring of 2014 with Alan Cumming reprising his Tony-winning role as the Emcee.  The show closed on Broadway on March 29, 2015, starring Alan Cumming and Sienna Miller at Studio 54.

The creative team includes direction by Sam Mendes, co-direction and choreography by Rob Marshall, set and club design by Robert Brill, costume design by William Ivey Long, lighting design by Peggy Eisenhauer and Mike Baldassariand sound design by Brian Ronan.  Cabaret is based on the play by John Van Druten and stories by Christopher Isherwood. Casting for the tour has not yet been announced.

Roundabout’s production of Cabaret opened on Broadway on March 19, 1998 starring Alan Cumming and Natasha Richardson and won four Tony Awards including Best Revival of a Musical.  Alan Cumming received the Tony Award for Best Actor in a Musical. Cabaret went on to play on Broadway for six years and 2, 378 performances before finishing its run on January 4, 2004.

Cabaret premiered on Broadway in 1966 and won eight Tony Awards, including Best Musical, in addition to the New York Drama Critics’ Circle Award, the Outer Critics’ Circle Award, the Variety Poll of New York Critics, and London’s Evening Standard Award.  The original Broadway production played 1166 performances.

CABARET will play the Aronoff Center from May 10 – 22, 2016: Tuesday – Thursday at 7:30PM, Friday at 8:00PM, Saturday at 2:00PM and 8:00PM and Sunday at 1:00PM and 6:30PM. Tickets for CABARET start at $29. They are available at the Aronoff Center Box Office downtown at 650 Walnut Street, online at CincinnatiArts.org or by phone at513.621.ARTS. For groups of 10 or more, contact the group sales department at 513.369.4363. Performance schedule, prices and cast are subject to change without notice. For more information, please visit www.BroadwayInCincinnati.com.

www.cabaretmusical.com
www.roundabouttheatre.org 

Fifth Third Bank Broadway in Cincinnati presented by TriHealth is committed to bringing the very best of Broadway to the Tri-State, presenting touring Broadway plays and musicals in Cincinnati since 1987. For the past twenty years, Broadway in Cincinnati has presented all shows at the Aronoff Center, and joins in celebrating the Aronoff’s landmark 20th Anniversary this year.  The Broadway in Cincinnati series brings more than 185,000 people downtown to the Aronoff Center each year, and contributes an average of $30 million to the local economy each season. Broadway in Cincinnati is a member of the Greater Cincinnati Convention & Visitors Bureau, the Greater Cincinnati Chamber of Commerce and The Broadway League. Fifth Third Bank is the sponsor of the Cincinnati 15/16 Season and the season is presented by TriHealth. LOCAL 12 is the official television station of the 15/16 Cincinnati Season.   

BROADWAY ACROSS AMERICA is part of the Key Brand Entertainment family of companies, which includes Broadway.com, under the supervision of John Gore (Owner & CEO).  BAA is the foremost presenter of first-class touring productions in North America, operating in 38 markets. Current and past productions include On Your Feet, View from the Bridge, Beautiful, Finding Neverland, Million Dollar Quartet, Hairspray and The Producers. BroadwayAcrossAmerica.com; Broadway.com.

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November 13, 2015 · 11:16 am

Holiday Tradition Continues with Cincinnati Ballet’s THE NUTCRACKER

Frisch’s Presents THE NUTCRACKER returns with special performers from Elementz hip-hop studio

Taylor Carrasco. Photography: Aaron M. Conway

Taylor Carrasco. Photography: Aaron M. Conway

CINCINNATI, OH. Frisch’s Presents THE NUTCRACKER, now in its 42nd annual production, returns December 18 through 27 at the Aronoff Center for the Arts, with the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra performing Tchaikovsky’s sensational score, conducted by Maestro Carmon DeLeone.

THE NUTCRACKER is the beloved holiday story of Clara, a little girl who embarks on a fantastical journey with her Nutcracker Prince through the Land of Sweets, meeting colorful and exciting characters along the way. The holiday favorite saw a re-envisioning in a 2011 world premiere, with new sets by John Ezell, costumes by Carrie Robbins, lighting by Trad A Burns and choreography by Artistic Director & CEO Victoria Morgan.

Frisch’s and Cincinnati Ballet have a long history of collaborating to present the spectacular production, dating back to the first Frisch’s Presents THE NUTCRACKER in 1974. Frisch’s Restaurants Inc. championed that production through a generous donation and has sponsored the production every subsequent year.

THE NUTCRACKER production provides the rare opportunity for young dancers to star in the featured roles of Clara and her brother, Fritz. Along with Cincinnati Ballet Academy student Lily Freiberg, currently learning the role of Clara is Gracie Harper, the niece of well-known former Cincinnati Ballet dancers, Jenny Leinberger and Jay Goodlett. This will be both young dancers’ first time dancing the role of Clara. Learning the role of Fritz are Academy students Charlie Klesa and Soren Campagna. Having two male dancers learning the role of Fritz signifies a shift in Academy enrollment, with more males represented than previous years. In seasons past, the male role was frequently danced by a female student costumed as a male, due to a paucity of male ballet students enrolled.

Elementz hip hop studio returns as a collaborator with four talented dancers featured as Mice in the battle scene of THE NUTCRACKER. Elementz recently wowed audiences when they were invited to choreograph and perform their own piece in Cincinnati Ballet’s 2014 Kaplan New Works Series, creating a unique juxtaposition of top ballet dancers performing on the same stage as Cincinnati’s number one hip hop company. Morgan also worked previously with Elementz resident choreographer Derrek Burbridge during the creation of King Arthur’s Camelot, to bring “fluidity and an edge” says Morgan, to the character of the villain Mordred.

Founded in 2001, Elementz operates under the principle of using hip-hop to help inner-city youth find their creative voices and provide an outlet for that creativity, while encouraging personal growth and life successes. Elementz is led by executive director Tom Kent, creative director Abdullah Powell and a dedicated staff of creative professionals.

THE NUTCRACKER COMMUNITY EXPERIENCES

Community Night
In partnership with Most Valuable Kids of Greater Cincinnati (MVK), Cincinnati Ballet opens its doors to children and their families to view a dress rehearsal for THE NUTCRACKER the evening of December 17. Sponsored by Western & Southern Financial Group and Airheads Candy, this is the second time Cincinnati Ballet has provided families this fun and interactive introduction to ballet. Last season Cincinnati Ballet hosted more than 1,800 attendees at Community Dress Rehearsal for Peter Pan. Attendees will have the opportunity to participate in pre-show activities such as a dance class in the lobby and a meet and greet with costumed dancers prior to the rehearsal. For more information on how to request tickets visit MostValuableKids.org.

The Sensory Friendly Nutcracker
Cincinnati Ballet will provide an opportunity for patrons to enjoy a Sensory Friendly Nutcracker experience. The December 22 dress rehearsal will accommodate any patrons and children with sensory sensitivities. For more information and how to request admission, please contact Cincinnati Ballet at 513.621.5282.

MEET THE ARTISTS
In the studio: Join us at the Cincinnati Ballet Center (1555 Central Parkway) for a full behind the scenes experience including a performance preview and a conversation with select artists, December 8 at 5:15 pm. RSVP to the Cincinnati Ballet box office at 513.621.5282.

Pre-performance: Cincinnati Ballet invites ticket holders to a pre-show conversation with select dancers, choreographers and designers who bring THE NUTCRACKER to life, December 18 at 6:30 pm in the Procter & Gamble Hall at Aronoff Center. Present your Nutcracker ticket for admission.

SUGAR PLUM PARADE
The Sugar Plum Parade is an exciting opportunity for Wednesday, December 23 matinee and Saturday, December 26 matinee ticket holders to experience THE NUTCRACKER from the stage itself. Audience members are invited to walk across the stage following the performance, getting a chance to see sets, costumes and dancers up close.

PERFORMANCE DATES AND INFORMATION
WHO: Cincinnati Ballet
Choreography: Victoria Morgan
Music: Peter Ilyich Tchaikovsky, performed by the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Maestro Carmon DeLeone
WHAT: Frisch’s Presents THE NUTCRACKER
WHEN:

  • Friday, December 18 – 7:30 pm
  • Saturday, December 19 – 2:00 pm
  • Saturday, December 19 – 7:30 pm
  • Sunday, December 20 – 1:00 pm
  • Sunday, December 20 – 5:30 pm
  • Tuesday, December 22 – 7:30 pm
  • Wednesday, December 23 – 2:00 pm*
  • Wednesday, December 23 – 7:30 pm
  • Saturday, December 26 – 2:00 pm*
  • Saturday, December 26 – 7:30 pm
  • Sunday, December 27 – 1:00 pm
    *denotes Sugar Plum Parade

WHERE: Aronoff Center for the Arts, 650 Walnut Street, Cincinnati, Ohio 45202
HOW: Call 513.621.5282, visit cballet.org, visit the Cincinnati Ballet Box Office at 1555 Central Parkway, Tickets start at $32.

###

Sponsors of Frisch’s Presents THE NUTCRACKER: Frisch’s; The H.B., E.W. & F.R. Luther Charitable Foundation; Airheads Candy; Engaging Dance Audiences

Capital Sponsors for Frisch’s Presents THE NUTCRACKER: Frisch’s, The Robert H. Reakirt Foundation, PNC Bank Trustee and PNC, Great American Insurance Group, Sheakley, The Anonymous Fund of the Greater Cincinnati Foundation, Eleanora C. U. Alms Trust, Fifth Third Bank Trustee, James J. & Joan A. Gardner Family Foundation, Sue & Bill Friedlander, Gannett Foundation, The Kroger Company Foundation, Doris M. & Charles B. Levinson Fund, The Louise Taft Semple Foundation, The Corbett Foundation, The Thomas J. Emery Memorial, The Greater Cincinnati Foundation, Procter & Gamble, Rosemary & Mark Schlachter

Cincinnati Ballet 2015-2016 Season Sponsors: The Otto M. Budig Family Foundation, ArtsWave, The Louise Dieterle Nippert Musical Arts Fund, Rhonda & Larry A. Sheakley Family Foundation, Rosemary & Mark Schlachter, Ohio Arts Council, PNC Bank, Frisch’s, Wellington Orthopaedic & Sports Medicine, Cincinnati Enquirer

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. Under the artistic direction of Victoria Morgan, Cincinnati Ballet has become a creative force within the larger dance community, commissioning world premiere works and exploring unique collaborations with artists as diverse as Grammy winning guitarist Peter Frampton and popular, Ohio-based band Over the Rhine. With a mission to inspire hope and joy in our community and beyond through the power and

passion of dance, 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, extensive education outreach programs and offers top level professional ballet training at Cincinnati Ballet Otto M. Budig Academy.

CONNECT: READ / WATCH / LISTEN / LEARN / ENJOY at cballet.org
http://www.facebook.com/CincinnatiBallet
http://twitter.com/cincyballet

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November 13, 2015 · 8:10 am

HAPPY HOLIDAYS WITH THE MIGHTY WURLITZER | Thu., Dec. 10 | Music Hall Ballroom

featuring acclaimed theatre organist Jelani Eddington,
Cincinnati Opera Young Artist Tyler Alessi,
and dancers from the Cincinnati Ballet Otto M. Budig Academy

CAA_Happy Holidays with the Mighty Wurlitzer logoCINCINNATI, OH – The Society for the Preservation of Music Hall (SPMH) is pleased to announce the return of Happy Holidays with the Mighty Wurlitzer to Cincinnati’s Music Hall Ballroom on Thursday, December 10 at 10:30 AM and 7:00 PM. Now in its sixth year, the popular holiday concert is regarded as one of the Tri-state’s most anticipated music events of the yuletide season.

Tickets are on sale now at www.CincinnatiArts.org, (513) 621-ARTS [2787], and the Aronoff Center or Music Hall Ticket Office. For groups of ten or more, call (513) 977-4157.

There’s nothing quite like the unique sound of the Albee Theater’s Mighty Wurlitzer − an orchestra and more all in one organ! 2001 Theater Organist of the Year, Jelani Eddington, along with Cincinnati Opera Young Artist Tyler Alessi and dancers from the Cincinnati Ballet Otto M. Budig Academy, will perform holiday favorites with all of the bells, whistles, and special effects that only an instrument as grand as the Mighty Wurlitzer can create! Relive your memories of yesterday as you create new memories of tomorrow with your friends and family!

“The Holiday Season is a wonderful time for family and friends filled with memories and music,” said Don Siekmann of The Society for the Preservation of Music Hall.  “Our annual Wurlitzer concert has become a holiday tradition, and this year the talented young dancers from Cincinnati Ballet’s Otto M. Budig Academy will perform some of the world’s most beautiful dances, accompanied by an outstanding theatre organist. Add to that the beautiful vocals of Cincinnati Opera’s Tyler Alessi singing some of your favorite yuletide songs, and you will have a memorable, musical experience that will add much warmth and joy to your holiday!”

The Mighty Wurlitzer 
The Mighty Wurlitzer was installed in the ornate Albee Theater on Fountain Square in December 1927 – one of only 2,200 theatre-organs produced at that time to accompany silent feature films.  When talkies took over in 1929, the theatre organ was mainly silenced.  The Albee organ was donated to the Emery Theater in 1969 (where it played for movies and other events) and was partially rebuilt by the Ohio Valley Organ Club. It was removed from the Emery in 1999 and put into storage.

The leadership at SPMH thought the historic Music Hall Ballroom would be an ideal location for the instrument, and in June 2007, Ronald F. Wehmeier, Inc., Pipe Organ Service in Cincinnati was contacted to completely rebuild and install the Wurlitzer. A donor foundation funded the entire project in the amount of $1.41 million.  Only a small number of Wurlitzers of this size still exist, and Cincinnati (the home of the Wurlitzer Company) is one of the few cities in the country to have an instrument of this quality.

The Wurlitzer was expanded in tonal colors and effects, from 19 ranks of pipes to 31 ranks (a rank is made up of 61 pipes, and represents orchestral sounds, such as trumpets, flutes, tubas, strings, etc.).  A full array of percussion effects is also present – xylophone, marimba, glockenspiel, chimes, and even a large Steinway grand – all playable from the giant three keyboard and pedal console, decorated in 22-karat gold leaf.  Wind for the pipes is provided by a 15 HP high pressure turbine, the electrical switching is controlled by computer, and pipes range in size from 16 feet to the size of a pencil.  In addition, the Wurlitzer is now fully computerized, so that it can be played without an organist through a digital input system.

Jelani Eddington     
Jelani Eddington is one of the most prominent and sought-after theatre-organists on the concert circuit today. During the course of his concert career, Jelani has been featured at numerous national and regional conventions of the American Theatre Organ Society, and has toured extensively throughout the world, including numerous concert appearances in the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and Europe. He has also accompanied numerous silent films and appears regularly at film series. In 2007, Jelani accompanied the classic film, The Hunchback of Notre Dame, for an international organ festival in Finland on the country’s largest pipe organ.

Jelani has also produced and marketed over 30 theatre organ albums on some of the best-known and most dynamic instruments in the country. In August 2001, the American Theatre Organ Society honored Jelani’s extensive career as a concert and recording organist by naming him the 2001 Theatre Organist of the Year. Jelani retains the distinction of being the youngest-ever recipient of this prestigious honor.

For a full bio, visit Jelani’s website at www.rjeproductions.com.

Tyler Alessi, baritone
Tyler Alessi has been seen most recently at CCM Opera, where he sang the role of Don Alfonso in Mozart’s Così fan Tutte. During his time at CCM, Tyler has been a frequent participant of Opera Fusion New Works collaboration between Cincinnati Opera and CCM. As a result, he has been able to workshop new and exciting operas composed by Jack Perla, Daniel Catán, Ricky Ian Gordon, and Jake Heggie. Professionally, Tyler has sung many small and featured roles at Cincinnati Opera, most recently William Dale in Kevin Puts and Mark Campbell’s Pulitzer Prize-winning opera, Silent Night. Last summer, Tyler participated in Des Moines Metro Opera’s esteemed young artist program, where he performed the role of Bello in Puccini’s La Fanciulla del West. Equally at home in musical theatre, Tyler recently performed the role of Prince Charming and the Wolf in Stephen Sondheim’s Into the Woods with Cincinnati Landmark Productions.  His upcoming engagements include Count Almaviva in Kentucky Opera’s concert tour of Le Nozze di Figaro and Forester in CCM’s production of A Cunning Little Vixen.

Cincinnati Ballet Otto M. Budig Academy
Cincinnati Ballet Otto M. Budig Academy, the region’s only pre-professional ballet training program, combines superior instruction, unparalleled performance opportunities, and a strong connection to Cincinnati Ballet.  The talented young dancers from the Academy are in great demand and are performing their interpretation of highlights from the The Nutcracker throughout the Cincinnati area this holiday season.

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November 10, 2015 · 12:37 pm

Good Grief! The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati presents A CHARLIE BROWN CHRISTMAS This December

GOOD GRIEF! The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati presents
A CHARLIE BROWN CHRISTMAS
This December at the Taft Theatre!

TCTC_Charlie_Brown Christmas promo2Bring your family and celebrate Christmas with The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati’s live rendition of everyone’s favorite holiday special. A CHARLIE BROWN CHRISTMAS! Don’t let the hustle and bustle of the holidays get you down – Charlie Brown and the rest of the Peanuts gang are here to remind us all about what’s most important during this Yuletide season. By Charles M. Schulz. Based on the television special by Bill Melendez and Lee Mendelson. Stage adaptation by Eric Schaeffer. By special arrangement with Arthur Whitelaw and Ruby Persson. Puppets by The Frisch Marionette Company. Directed by Roderick Justice. Choreographed by Jay Goodlett.

2015 marks the 50th anniversary of the animated television special, A Charlie Brown Christmas. Produced by Lee Mendelson and directed by Bill Melendez, the TV program made its debut on CBS on December 9, 1965.

A CHARLIE BROWN CHRISTMAS presented by The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati, December 4 through December 13. Friday December 4 at 7:30 PM; Saturday December 5 at 2 PM; Sunday, December 6 at 2 PM; Saturday, December 12 at 2 PM and 5 PM; and Sunday, December 13 at 2 PM. At the Taft Theatre, 5th and Sycamore Streets in Downtown Cincinnati. Tickets $7-$25. 1-800-745-3000 and www.ticketmaster.com. Tickets are selling fast!

The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati’s production of A CHARLIE BROWN CHRISTMAS is made possible by the generous support of Macy’s, and the generosity of community contributions to the ArtsWave Campaign. Season Sponsors are the Charles H. Dater Foundation and the Marge and Charles J. Schott Foundation. The Ohio Arts Council helped fund this program with state tax dollars to encourage economic growth, educational excellence and cultural enrichment for all Ohioans. Media sponsors are Cincinnati Enquirer, LOCAL 12 and Q102. The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati Kids Club is presented by Time Timer.

And don’t miss Brunch with Santa on Saturday, December 12 at 11:30 AM. Tickets for this event are $35 for brunch only, show tickets must be purchased separately. Join The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati in the Taft Theatre Ballroom for a festive holiday brunch, music, crafts, a visit from Santa and his friends and memories to last a lifetime. Seating is limited. Call 513-569-8080 ext. 14. Reservations required.

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November 9, 2015 · 9:29 am

If the Sneaker Fits…ETC Presents Family Friendly Holiday Musical CINDERELLA, Dec. 2, 2015-Jan. 3, 2016

ETC_Cinderella promoIF THE SNEAKER FITS…
ENSEMBLE THEATRE CINCINNATI PRESENTS FAMILY FRIENDLY HOLIDAY MUSICAL
CINDERELLA, DECEMBER 3, 2015-JANUARY 3, 2016

(Cincinnati, OH) Throw out that glass slipper and break out your library card! Ensemble Theatre Cincinnati (ETC) revives one of its most treasured family-friendly holiday musicals CINDERELLA, by local playwright Joseph McDonough with lyrics by David Kisor and music by Fitz Patton, playing December 3, 2015 through January 4, 2016. In the tradition of ETC’s “fractured fairytale” holiday productions, CINDERELLA is a modern spin on the classic folk tale. This revamped production features a magical set design, an updated musical score and story, enchanting comedy, and the opportunity to see true beauty through new eyes (or glasses). Directed by D. Lynn Meyers. Premiere Sponsor is Macy’s.

What do you get when you combine a nearsighted bookworm heroine, two fabulously self-absorbed stepsisters, one devilishly diva stepmother, along with a self-empowering Well-Wisher? A fun spin on the classic fairy tale that demonstrates being smart is true beauty! When the King pressures his romantically challenged son to choose a bride from hundreds of “applicants,” a cross-country tour of the kingdom ensues to reunite a missing sneaker—yes a sneaker!—with its rightful owner. From the creators of Sleeping Beauty and Snow White, this enchanted and heart-warming musical will delight audiences of all ages this holiday season.

Each season, ETC produces a magical fairy tale musical written with families in mind. As a theatre that also seeks to nurture new audiences, ETC has specifically commissioned these shows that take classic fairy tales and give them a fresh, modern spin with contemporary cultural references to make the shows’ message accessible for the next generation of arts patrons.

Following the success of recent holiday musicals, ETC’s performance schedule includes over 30 chances for audiences to see this popular production. ETC will also offer a convenient show calendar for families with many weekend matinees, early 6:00 pm Sunday evening shows, and 7:00 pm evening shows throughout the holiday season. “CINDERELLA sends a message that inner beauty, strength, and intelligence are the keys to success,” says ETC’s Producing Artistic Director D. Lynn Meyers. “Our 30th anniversary season is all about celebrating what is unique about ETC and David Kisor and Joe McDonough’s collaboration on this musical does just that. My hope is that everyone who comes to see CINDERELLA will leave feeling like princes and princesses.”

About the Cast

Brooke Steele (Cinderella) returns to ETC, having last appeared as Daisy in Sleeping Beauty. Her favorite roles include Suzy Simpson in three incarnations of The Marvelous Wonderettes at Ensemble Theatre Cincinnati, Leni Riefenstahl in Monstrous Beauty (Northern Kentucky University), June the Ingenue in The Musical of Musicals (The Musical!) (Showboat Majestic) and the title role in Peter Pan (Covedale Center). She studied theatre at NKU and was honored to receive an Acclaim Rising Star award in 2011.

Warren Bryson (Prince Frederick) makes his ETC debut as Prince Frederick in CINDERELLA. He is a proud graduate of NKU where he studied acting. Some of his past stage credits include Rene Flambeau in Babes in Arms, Bobby Van Husen in The Boyfriend, Spike in Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Biff in 1940’s Radio Hour, Melvin Wilder in The Diviners, and Henry Taggart in The Council. Select film and television credits include John Winters in Quarantine, Dirk Wallenhorst in Divine Will, Ryan in Forever’s End, Sean Michaels in Finale, Alex in Cedarville and Cecil Dotson in Final Witness. Mr. Bryson’s commercial work includes Toyota, Long John Silver’s, Walmart, LaRosa’s, Lexmark, Cincinnati Bell, Speedway, Gold Star Chili and more.

Deb G. Girdler (Brunhilda) has appeared numerous times on ETC’s stage, often as the villain in the holiday shows. Her ETC credits include Janice Curtis in Hands on a Hardbody, Around the World in 80 Days, Wisteria in Sleeping Beauty, The Queen of Hearts in Alice in Wonderland, Betty in the smash hit The Great American Trailer Park Musical, as well as Old Bones in The Frog Princess. Ms. Girdler has appeared at the Olney Theatre as the Fairy Godmother in the now official version of Rogers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella as well as in La Cage Aux Folles at the Gateway Playhouse in New Jersey. A CCM graduate, she began her career on the Showboat Majestic and has worked off-Broadway, in regional theatre, and in summer stock for over 30 years.

Michael G. Bath (King Frederick) returns to ETC’s stage, marking this year as his nineteenth consecutive holiday show with Ensemble Theatre. He most recently appeared in ETC’s productions of Sleeping Beauty, Hands on a Hardbody, Around the World in 80 Days, Alice in Wonderland, Snow White, Next Fall, Cinderella, Becky’s New Car and My Name is Asher Lev. Other regional credits include Superior Donuts with The Clifton Players and Angels in America at Know Theatre. Mr. Bath has also performed with Playhouse in the Park, Cincinnati Children’s Theatre, the Performance Gallery, Showboat Majestic, and Stage First Cincinnati.

Darnell Pierre Benjamin (Gaston) was last seen at Ensemble Theatre Cincinnati as Sly in Detroit ’67 and The Elephant Man in Around the World in 80 Days. Some favorite, past productions include: Titus Andronicus, To Kill a Mockingbird, Cock, Angels in America, Othello, Taming of the Shrew, and A Raisin in the Sun, all at theaters in the region. In 2013, Mr. Benjamin won Michigan’s Wilde Award, “Best of the Bard,” for his performance as Mercutio in Romeo and Juliet at Hope Summer Repertory Theatre. Along with being a member of Pones, Inc. and Queen City Queer Theatre Collective, Mr. Benjamin spends his time off-stage teaching Shakespeare and dance to students in the Tri-state area.

Sara Mackie (Priscilla) is a graduate of Wright State’s Acting BFA program. Ms. Mackie has been fortunate to share the boards with Ensemble Theatre Cincinnati in all three Wonderette iterations as Betty Jean as well as the productions of Sleeping Beauty, Hands on a Hardbody, Other Desert Cities, Rabbit Hole, Mauritius, and Alice in Wonderland, among others since 1999. Human Race Theatre Company credits include Olivia in Twelfth Night, and the premiere staged readings of three new musical works: Guarding Gold Street, The Trimble Wars, and Red Blooded All-American Man. She has performed with the Carnegie Theatre in Camelot in Concert, Pump Boys and Dinettes, and the staged reading of The Sandman. She appeared in the Hallmark Channel Original Movie The Christmas Spirit.

Torie Wiggins (Clarissa) last appeared in Ensemble Theatre Cincinnati’s production of The Mountaintop as Camae. She is a graduate of the University of Cincinnati’s College-Conservatory of Music with a B.F.A. in Dramatic Performance. She created three one-woman shows: Everywhere You Look, Everywhere Else You Look, and Torie on Ice. She co-adapted and performed another one-woman show, Your Negro Tour Guide, at various venues in Cincinnati and across the country. She has appeared on All My Children, the feature film Love Me Through It and her voice can be heard on numerous national television and radio commercials for H&M, Home Depot, and Burger King. She recently appeared in Know Theatre of Cincinnati’s production of Pluto and was a Seasonal Resident Artist with the Know Theatre of Cincinnati, appearing in Abraham Lincoln’s Big Gay Dance Party, Collapse, Afghan Women Writer’s Project, and Bloody Bloody Andrew Jackson. She also appeared in To Kill a Mockingbird and The Crucible at Cincinnati Shakespeare Company, and performed the title role in Black Pearl Sings! at Ensemble Theatre Cincinnati.

Kate Wilford (Gwendolyn) was last seen at Ensemble Theatre Cincinnati in Luna Gale, Hands On A Hardbody and Sleeping Beauty. Her other past Ensemble favorites are Becky’s New Car, Good People, Dead Man’s Cell Phone, The Women of Lockerbie, as well as the world premieres of the musicals Snow White, Don’t Make Me Pull This Show Over, and Joe McDonough’s drama Wayfarer’s Rest. Elsewhere, she won Acclaim and CEA awards as best actress for her performance in Death of a Salesman. Other award-winning performances include When The Rain Stops Falling at Know Theatre of Cincinnati and Don’t Make Me Pull This Show Over Ensemble Theatre Cincinnati. She has appeared at Cincinnati Shakespeare Company in Romeo And Juliet, The Cherry Orchard, All My Sons, and Bedroom Farce. Regionally, she has also worked at The Lyceum Theatre, Beef N Boards, Westgate Theatre, The Kenley Players, and was a founding member of The Troupe, here in Cincinnati, as well as directed at Xavier University, Thomas More College, and for three years at Cincinnati Children’s Theatre.

Rounding out the ensemble cast are ETC 2015-2016 Acting Apprentices Kendra Beitzel (Aristotle the Crow), Lauren Bowler (Plato the Toad), and Daniela N. Nenova (Socrates the Spider).

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), Fitz Patton (Sound Designer), Scot Woolley (Musical Director), Dee Anne Bryll (Choreographer), Reba Senske (Costume Designer), and Kelly Yurko (Wigs & Makeup Designer). Production Stage Manager is Brandon T. Holmes. Assistant Stage Manager is Elizabeth Freyman.

Performance Information

Runs December 2, 2015-January 3, 2016. 7:00 p.m. performances Fri.; 2:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. performances Sat. and select weeknights; 2:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. on Sundays. No performances on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day. A complete calendar of performances is available online at www.ensemblecincinnati.org.

Ticket Prices

Ticket prices are $44 for adults; advance student tickets are $25; and children are $18. For the 2015-2016 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, Public Radio Perks Card, ArtsWave FunCard, AAA, Senior, 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.

2015-2016 Season Presenting Sponsor is the Otto M. Budig Family Foundation. Additional support provided by Garfield Suites Hotel, the Shubert Foundation, and PNC.

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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