Tag Archives: Cincinnati Landmark Productions

A FEW GOOD MEN Review

CCPA_A Few Good Men3

Photo by Tammy Cassesa.

A FEW GOOD MEN presented by the Covedale Center for the Performing Arts through Oct. 7. Click here for a synopsis and more information on the production. I attended the opening night performance.

Covedale Center for the Performing Arts kicks off their 2018-2019 season with a sound and satisfying production of Aaron Sorkin‘s military drama, A FEW GOOD MEN.

CCPA_A Few Good Men4

A.J. Ford as Lt. Col. Nathan Jessep. Photo by Tammy Cassesa.

Director Ed Cohen has a knack for casting that is very evident here, having put together a solid acting ensemble from top to bottom. The action is well-paced and the director smartly found ways to keep the action dynamic and interesting during the understandably static court room scenes.

The set design by Brett Bowling works well for the production, opting for a backdrop of a fence line with a giant re-creation of the US Marine Corps logo dominating the stage. Taking advantage of the Covedale’s wide proscenium, the smaller scenes are staged in lit areas stage right, center, and left. This also limits the time needed for scene changes as tables and chairs are simply re-positioned throughout the performance.

It is evident that Costumer Caren Brady worked hard to bring authenticity to the various military uniforms worn throughout the production. The cast also handled multiple quick costume changes well with no delays in returning to the stage.

CCPA_A Few Good Men2

Eric Minion as Lt. Jonathan James Kendrick, A.J. Ford as Lt. Col. Nathan Jessep, Phineas Clark as Lt. Col. Matthew A. Markinson, Nathan Tubbs as Lt. Sam Weinberg, Rory Sheridan as Lt. J.G. Daniel A Kaffee & Erin Carr as Lt. Cmdr. Joanne Galloway. Photo by Tammy Cassesa.

Being such a solid production, the few complaints I have are nitpicky. At the end of Act I, Kaffee’s final line seemed to break the fourth wall which felt out of place. Using military cadences to cover the scene changes worked up to a point. It does get a bit repetitive, so if any can be eliminated on the shorter changes I’d recommend considering it. Also when the cadences are used, it is very apparent when they are not in sync. Lastly, for Markinson’s final scene you may want to consider putting the sound effect after the blackout and choosing one that doesn’t sound as muffled.

Overall, A FEW GOOD MEN is a solidly performed, engrossing court room drama which naturally builds to a satisfying conclusion.

My rating: 4.5 out of 5.

I would enjoy hearing what you think about the show or my review. All I ask is that you express your opinion without attacking someone else’s opinion. You can post your comments below.

2 Comments

Filed under Reviews

Auditions Announced for THE GRADUATE, ALMOST HEAVEN: The Songs of John Denver, THE BEST LITTLE WHOREHOUSE IN TEXAS and 42ND STREET

CLPCincinnati Landmark Productions to hold auditions for two Marquee Season shows at the Covedale Center and two District Series shows at the Warsaw Federal Incline Theater including:

  • THE GRADUATE
  • ALMOST HEAVEN: The Songs of John Denver
  • THE BEST LITTLE WHOREHOUSE IN TEXAS
  • 42ND STREET

Open Audition dates/times:

  • Saturday, Oct 13th Noon to 5:00pm
  • Sunday, Oct 14th 6:00 to 9:00pm

Audition Location:

  • The Warsaw Federal Incline Theatre
    801 Matson Place, Cincinnati, OH 45204

Callback date for

  • Monday, Oct 15th (5:00pm to 7:30pm) THE GRADUATE
  • Monday, Oct 15th (7:40pm to 10:00 pm) ALMOST HEAVEN: The Songs of John Denver

Callback date for

  • Tuesday, Oct 16th (5pm to 7:30pm) for THE BEST LITTLE WHOREHOUSE IN TEXAS
  • Tuesday, Oct 16th (7:30pm to 10:00pm) for 42ND STREET

Please note: Everyone will not have to attend callbacks – you will be asked to attend (and expected to attend if asked). This is when you will read from the script. However, not being asked to callbacks doesn’t mean you won’t be cast.

If you’d like the audition forms sent to you in advance, email Jennifer Perrino at jenniferperrino@CLPShows.org 

Important Audition Information

  • You may audition for more than one show.
  • For THE GRADUATE prepare one 30-45 second monologue. Age Requirement: Mid 20s – 50s
  • You may be tested for Dance at the audition for THE BEST LITTLE WHOREHOUSE IN TEXAS and 42ND STREET depending on role. Note: There will be additional dance at the callback too.
  • For any of the 3 musicals, prepare 16 to 32 bars of a song that best demonstrates your vocal ability. You will read from the script at callbacks.
  • For THE BEST LITTLE WHOREHOUSE IN TEXAS you must be a minimum of 18 years of age to audition.
  • For 42ND STREET you must be a minimum of 17 years of age to audition.
  • ALMOST HEAVEN: The Songs of John Denver you must be a minimum of 16 years of age to audition.
  • ALMOST HEAVEN: The Songs of John Denver, playing any musical instrument is not required but is a plus, particularly guitar.
  • Adults MUST HAVE A RESUME listing theatrical experience in order to audition.
  • A headshot/picture is appreciated. Please bring a headshot and resume for each show you are auditioning for, e.g. 2 shows =2 headshots and resumes; 3 shows =3 headshots etc.

No more than 2 conflicts will be accepted during the rehearsal process for each of these productions.

All roles are paid positions. No Roles have been precast.

Cast members do not have to be the actual ages of the characters in any of the productions – But must be able to look age appropriate and act accordingly.

Marquee Season Shows at Covedale Center for the Performing Arts:

ALMOST HEAVEN: The Songs of John Denver
February 14 – March 10, 2019
Conceived by Harold Thau with orchestrations, vocal arrangements, and music supervision by Jeff Waxman
Almost Heaven weaves together the songs of John Denver to create a uniquely theatrical narrative that reflects upon the country during the years in which he wrote them. Twenty-nine of Denver’s songs – including “Rocky Mountain High,” “Sunshine on My Shoulders,” “Annie’s Song,” “Leaving on a Jet Plane,” “Calypso” and more – are rediscovered and reinvented, performed against a backdrop of stunning visual images of America in the late ‘60s and early ‘70s,a time of political upheaval, yet great beauty and hope. Tim Perrino, Director; Greg Dastillung, Music Director

42ND STREET
April 4 – April 28, 2019
Music by HARRY WARREN; Lyrics by AL DUBIN; Book by MICHAEL STEWART & MARK BRAMBLE
Based on the Novel by BRADFORD ROPES Original Direction and Dances by GOWER CHAMPION Originally Produced on Broadway by DAVID MERRICK

The ultimate show-biz musical, 42ND STREET celebrates Broadway, Times Square, and the people who make the magic of musical theatre. Aspiring chorus girl Peggy Sawyer comes to the big city from Allentown PA, and soon lands her first big job in the ensemble of a glitzy new Broadway show. But just before opening night, the leading lady breaks her ankle. Will Peggy be able to step in and become a star? The score is chock-full of Broadway standards, including “Dames,” “We’re In the Money,” “Lullaby of Broadway,” “Shuffle Off to Buffalo” and “Forty-Second Street.” Maggie Perrino, Director/Choreographer; Stephen Variames , Music Director

District Series Shows at The Warsaw Federal Incline Theater

THE GRADUATE
January 24 – Feb. 10, 2019
A Play Adapted by Terry Johnson; Based on the Novel by Charles Webb And the Motion Picture Screenplay by Calder Willingham and Buck Henry By Special Arrangement with StudioCanal

Benjamin Braddock is a confused young man. Having spent four years crafting a brilliant scholastic record, he finds himself adrift upon graduation, uncertain about his future, disconnected from his purpose, and increasingly alienated from the upper-class, suburban, “plastic” world of his parents. Fighting panic and boredom, he is deeply conflicted but ultimately willing when Mrs. Robinson, the unhappily married, alcoholic, and dangerously charismatic wife of his father’s business partner, tempts him into an affair. Benjamin’s tenuous existence of lazy days and stolen nights falls apart when he falls in love — with Elaine, Mrs. Robinson’s upbeat, optimistic daughter. Terry Johnson’s stage adaptation of The Graduate, based on the novel and the iconic 1967 film, is a bitterly hilarious dark comedy, full of rapid fire dialogue between fascinating and horrifying characters. This play explores family dysfunction, parental expectations, crumbling marriages, and the naive, yet disillusioned, dichotomy of youth, against the backdrop of 1960’s America. Greg Procaccino, Director

THE BEST LITTLE WHOREHOUSE IN TEXAS
March 21 – April 7, 2019
Book by Larry L. King and Peter Masterson
Music and Lyrics by Carol Hall Based on a story by Larry L. King

THE BEST LITTLE WHOREHOUSE IN TEXAS is a rollicking hootenanny of a musical based on the true story of a legendary Texas brothel, which operated from the 1840s to 1973. Protected by a friendly sheriff and frequented by politicians, football teams, and others, the “Chicken Ranch” thrived in the small town of Gilbert, Texas. Girls came from all over to work at the ranch and make a little extra cash. However, a crusading do-gooder Houston radio commentator and his conservative audience expose the Chicken Ranch, forcing it to shut its doors forever. Great songs include: Dolly Parton’s Hard Candy Christmas, The Aggie Song and Twenty Four Hours of Lovin’. The hit movie featured Dolly Parton and Burt Reynolds! Jay Goodlett, Director/Choreographer; Damon Steven, Music Director

For more information on auditions, contact us at (513) 241 – 6550. Check us out on the web @ www.CLPShows.org

Leave a comment

Filed under Auditions

Educator Center Instructor Interest Survey for Madcap Education Center

CLP MCP_logosThe Madcap Education Center is THIS CLOSE to opening! Construction on the exciting new arts education center in Westwood is progressing swiftly – on time and on budget – with a hopeful grand opening planned for early November.

Cincinnati Landmark Productions and Madcap Puppets officially merged last year and have teamed together to create a state-of-the-art learning space for…

  • acting classes
  • dance classes
  • puppet-making classes
  • visual art classes
  • voice classes
  • musical instrument classes
  • summer camps
  • workshops

…and more! We’re envisioning classes for kids, teens, adults and seniors alike. Anyone and everyone could be served at the Madcap Education Center.

Are you interested in teaching in the new space? Click this link to formally express your interest and tell us about the kinds of classes you would like and are qualified to teach!

Leave a comment

Filed under Casting Call

NEXT TO NORMAL Runs Oct. 4-21

WFIT_Next to Normal logoNEXT TO NORMAL
Warsaw Federal Incline Theater
Oct. 4-21
[East Price Hill]

Directed & choreographed by Matthew Wilson
Music directed by Brian Hoffman

Cast: Lesley Hitch as Diana, Brian Anderson as Dan, Leslie Kelly as Natalie, Tanner Gleeson as Gabe, Elliot Handkins as Henry & Derek Harper as Dr. Madden/Dr. Fine

NEXT TO NORMAL explores how one suburban household copes with crisis and mental illness. Winner of three 2009 Tony Awards, including Best Musical Score and the 2010 Pulitzer Prize, Next to Normal was named “one of the year’s ten best shows” by critics around the country, including The Los Angeles TimesThe Washington PostRolling Stone and The New York Times.

Dad’s an architect; Mom packs lunches and pours cereal; their daughter and son are bright, wise-cracking teens in a typical American family. And yet their lives are anything but normal; mother has been battling manic depression for 16 years. Next to Normal takes audiences into the minds and hearts of each character, with deep love and sympathy.  An emotional powerhouse encompassing grieving a loss, bewildering psychiatry and modern life.

  • Thu, Oct. 4 at 7:30pm
  • Fri-Sat, Oct. 5-6 at 8pm
  • Sun, Oct. 7 at 2pm
  • Wed-Thu, Oct. 10-11 at 7:30pm
  • Fri-Sat, Oct. 12-13 at 8pm
  • Sun, Oct. 14 at 2pm
  • Wed-Thu, Oct. 17-18 at 7:30pm
  • Fri-Sat, Oct. 19-20 at 8pm
  • Sun, Oct. 21 at 2pm

Official page |

1 Comment

Filed under On Stage

Auditions Announced for Cincinnati Escape Room

CER_logoCincinnati Landmark Productions is partnering with Cincinnati Escape Room on two NEW theatrical adventures that require actors. These are PAID positions. All contracts will be with Cincinnati Escape Room. Both gigs are in downtown/Over the Rhine.

Read below for more information on the events and casting needs.

AUDITIONS for these experiences will be held:

  • SATURDAY, September 8: 1-3pm
  • MONDAY, September 10: 7-9pm

Warsaw Federal Incline Theater
801 Matson Place, Cincinnati OH 45204

No appointments necessary. Can bring headshot/resume to audition but not required. Questions? Email jw@CincinnatiEscapeRoom.com.

Haunted Brewery Tours

The Project: Haunted Brewery Tours: Can You Solve the Mystery? is a brand-new interactive experience supporting the Brewery District Community Urban Redevelopment Corporation, created in cooperation with Christian Moerlein Brewing, The Cincinnati Escape Room and Cincinnati Landmark Productions.

Debuting October 5 and running Friday and Saturday evenings throughout October, the Haunted Brewery Tours will take patrons on a trip back in time to meet actual colorful (and doomed!) characters in Cincinnati brewing history. Or are they? Of the five historic vignettes on the tour, four are real but one is fiction. There are clues and hands-on, interactive puzzles along the way to help you solve the mystery. Will your group guess correctly? If you do, a special prize and your place in history await you.

Roles: Actors (ages 18-60) needed for historic characters and interactive tour guides. Improv/atmo experience preferred but not required.

Commitment: Actors would be needed for all event dates (Friday/Saturday nights in October). LIMITED conflicts could be accommodated for preferred talent. There would be 2 rehearsals scheduled before opening.

Pay: $500 stipend, paid at conclusion of the event.

The Summons

The Project: The Cincinnati Escape Room is auditioning actors for our next escape adventure: The Summons. The Summons is the first game in our Big Event Series and will be produced at one of Cincinnati’s most iconic buildings: The Cincinnati Masonic Center. The game runs from October 11 through February 9. We are looking for two casts. The game is centered around a criminal underworld gala where the players will represent international criminal organizations.

Roles:

  • Aiden – 20-40 years old. Waiter or Waitress. This role can be played by a male or female. An exceptional high-end server with a criminal streak. Morally ambiguous. A con artist.
  • Essen – 35-65 years old. Male. The Emcee of the gala. Strong presence. Capable of commanding attention.
  • Wilma – 20-40 Female. Striking. Mysterious. Eyes that see everything…especially about our players.
  • Security Guard – 20-50 Male. Big guy, physically intimidating. A man who doesn’t have to talk to get his point across.

Commitment: Actors will be expected to work 4 games a week (min) rotating Wednesday, Thursday and Friday nights, also Saturday afternoon/evenings and one game on Sunday.

Pay: We will have 9-week contracts ($1,080) and 18-week contracts ($2,400).

Leave a comment

Filed under Auditions, On Stage