Tag Archives: Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park

Agatha Christie’s Classic Mystery MURDER ON THE ORIENT EXPRESS Takes Audiences on a Thrilling Ride Beginning Sept. 25

PIP_Murder on the Orient Express promo

Andrew May as Hercule Poirot in the Indiana Repertory Theatre 2020 production of Agatha Christie’s MURDER ON THE ORIENT EXPRESS. Photo by Zach Rosing.

CINCINNATI – Audiences will be on the edge of their seats when Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park presents Agatha Christie’s MURDER ON THE ORIENT EXPRESS beginning Sept. 25 at Jarson-Kaplan Theater at the Aronoff Center for the Arts. (The show runs through Oct. 23; opening night is Sept. 29.)

Adapted from the world’s greatest mystery writer by Ken Ludwig, MURDER ON THE ORIENT EXPRESS finds Christie’s beloved detective Hercule Poirot unraveling a tricky murder case that includes a train full of suspects. With unsurpassed intelligence and a keen understanding of the criminal mind, Poirot uncovers clues to unmask the killer lurking in the midst.

“All of the Christie elements are there in this adaptation,” explains Director Risa Brainin. “Poirot is in rare form, as per usual. He has a foil in the character of Monsieur Bouc, who runs the Wagon Lit. Clues are dropped and picked up. Bouc, like the popular Christie character Hastings, tries to put the pieces together…without success. Poirot solves the mystery with brilliance, just like always!”

A grand-scale stage design with art deco details from the original Orient Express and an immersive soundscape will transport audiences to the exciting–yet deadly–train ride full of suspense even if they already know the story.

MURDER ON THE ORIENT EXPRESS is the Playhouse’s third recent production penned by award-winning playwright Ken Ludwig, whose work has been produced on Broadway and at theaters across the country. The other recent productions were Treasure Island and Baskerville: A Sherlock Holmes Mystery, which were well received by critics and audiences alike.

Broadway World called his adaptation of MURDER ON THE ORIENT EXPRESS, “Engaging, entertaining, and keeps the audience enthralled from beginning to end.” The Playhouse originally planned to stage the show in Spring of 2020, but the pandemic forced cancellation.

CAST
Andrew May (Hercule Poirot); Katie Bradley (Countess Andrenyi); China Brickey (Mary Debenham); Harry Davis (Hector MacQueen); Dale Hodges (Princess Dragomiroff); Rob Johansen (Head Waiter/Michel the Conductor/Fight Director); Jennifer Joplin (Helen Hubbard); Lenne Klingaman (Greta Ohlsson); Taha Mandviwala (Monsieur Bouc); Nick Vannoy (Colonel Arbuthnot/Samuel Ratchett); Liz Comstock (Ensemble); Aaron Schilling (Ensemble).

PRODUCTION
Ken Ludwig (Playwright); Risa Brainin (Director); Robert Koharchik (Set Designer); Devon Painter (Costume Designer); Michael Klaers (Lighting Designer); Michael Keck (Composer); Andrea L. Shell (Stage Manager); Brooke Redler (Second Stage Manager); Brandon T. Holmes (Assistant Stage Manager).

TICKETS
Performances will take place at the Jarson-Kaplan Theater at Aronoff Center for the Arts at 7:30 p.m. on Tuesdays through Saturdays and 7 p.m. on selected Sundays. Weekend matinees are at 2 p.m. on both Saturdays and Sundays. To purchase tickets or for more information, call the Playhouse Box Office at 513-421-3888 (toll-free in Ohio, Kentucky, and Indiana at 800-582-3208) or visit www.cincyplay.com. Patrons who are deaf, hard-of-hearing, deaf-blind or speech disabled: dial 711 to connect to the Box Office via Ohio Relay Services.

ADVISORY
Agatha Christie’s Murder on the Orient Express is suitable for ages 12 and up with minimal adult language. This classic literary mystery is full of dramatic plot twists and multiple acts of violence — like murder (obviously).

LOCATION
The Jarson-Kaplan Theater at Aronoff Center for the Arts, 650 Walnut St. Cincinnati, OH 45202. The Playhouse is performing off-site in the fall while construction of the new Moe & Jack’s Place –The Rouse Theatre continues. The new mainstage theater will open in Spring 2023.

SPONSORS
Production Sponsor is US Bank. Design Sponsor is Homewood Suites by Hilton. Artist Sponsors are Geiler and Skidmore Sales & Distributing. Honorary Producer is Terry Lemmerman. The Rouse Theatre Season is presented by Schueler Group.

The Playhouse is supported by the generosity of almost 40,000 contributors to the ArtsWave Community campaign. The Ohio Arts Council helps fund the Playhouse with state tax dollars to encourage economic growth, educational excellence and cultural enrichment for all Ohioans. The Playhouse also receives funding from the Shubert Foundation.

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FRIDA…A SELF PORTRAIT Runs Oct. 15-Nov. 6

PIP_Friedy promoFRIDA…A SELF PORTRAIT
Cincinnati Playhosue in the Park
Oct. 15-Nov. 6
The Carnegie [Covington]

Directed by Joanie Schultz

Featuring playwright Vanessa Severo as Frida Kahlo

Frida Kahlo was her own mysterious and brilliant muse. The iconic Mexican painter captured the difficulties and wonders of her life with incredible vibrancy. Now, she comes to life onstage through playwright and performer Vanessa Severo. Frida…A Self Portrait transports you to La Casa Azul, Frida’s home, where Vanessa recounts the artist’s bold life. With music and movement, she shares insights about Frida’s physical limitations, complex love life, addictions and, of course, the beauty in her art. This searing new play cracks open a powerful portal between Vanessa and Frida bringing breathtaking physicality and raw honesty to this stunningly creative production.

  • Sat, Oct. 15 at 7:30pm
  • Tue-Fri, Oct. 18-21 at 7:30pm
  • Sat, Oct. 22 at 2pm & 7:30pm
  • Sun, Oct. 23 at 3pm
  • Tue-Fri, Oct. 25-28 at 7:30pm
  • Sat, Oct. 29 at 2pm & 7:30pm
  • Sun, Oct. 30 at 3pm
  • Tue, Nov. 1 at 7:30pm
  • Wed, Nov. 2 at 1pm
  • Thu-Fri, Nov. 3-4 at 7:30pm
  • Fri-Nov. 5 at 2pm & 7:30pm
  • Sun, Nov. 6 at 3pm

Official page |

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Assistant Properties Manager Sought by Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park

PIP_logoCincinnati Playhouse in the Park is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EEO) and is committed to fostering a culture of diversity and inclusion in all areas of its work, both on and offstage.  Qualified individuals who bring diverse perspectives and life experiences to the workplace are especially encouraged to apply.

Position: Assistant Properties Manager 

Reports to: Props Manager

Position Start Date: Immediately

Salary Range: $23.18 per hour (35-hour week)

Position Overview:
The Assistant Properties Manager works closely with the Properties Manager to oversee the acquisition, construction, installation, and dismantling of props.  This position works closely with designers, directors, and the Props Manager to develop drawings and other such plans for props, assists with props research as necessary, and manages the organization and rental of CPIP Props inventory.

This is a full-time position that works the duration of the Production season. Benefits include health, dental and vision insurance, paid vacation and sick leave, and 401(k) plan with company match.

Position Responsibilities:

  • Collaborates with Props Manager, IATSE Props Artisans, Directors, Designers, and other departments to provide properties for all CPIP productions and ancillary events as needed.
  • Creates and sources props for rehearsals and productions
  • Maintains an organized prop stock and digital inventory
  • Maintains shop equipment and shop cleanliness
  • Creates construction drawings for built props.
  • Assists in load ins, load outs, and tech rehearsals as needed
  • Maintains the artistic standards of all Playhouse presented shows and events.
  • Shops for props and prop-making supplies
  • Oversees props crew when Props Manager is unavailable
  • Manages rentals to outside theaters & production companies. This includes keeping records, processing invoices, etc.
  • Observes and implements shop safety and risk management procedures in all workspaces.  Maintains knowledge of PPE and MSDS information.  CPIP will provide First Aid/CPR/Forklift training as necessary
  • Other duties as assigned

Essential Skills and Attributes:

  • Good aesthetic sensibility with an eye for color, proportions, period, and style.
  • Good time management and problem-solving skills, and the ability to delegate when needed.
  • Ability to manage multiple projects at a time with a positive and proactive problem-solving attitude.
  • Self-motivated and detail oriented with excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
  • Willingness to learn and teach new skills and about new materials and techniques.
  • Ability to realize deadlines in a fast-paced environment
  • Knowledge of shop tools, props building techniques, period styles
  • Embrace and implement a safe work environment.
  • Willing and able to work flexible hours/days reflective of a production schedule of a theater which includes a variety of hours including evenings and weekends.
  • Knowledge of Photoshop, Illustrator, CAD, 3Dprinting, and vinyl cutters a plus

Preferred Skills and Qualifications:

  • 4 years of job experience or an equivalent
  • Ability to self-critique and correct work while maintaining sensitivity to the overall artistic vision.
  • Proficient with web-based searches for new materials and processes.
  • Works well with others and independently.

Work Environment and Physical Demands:

  • Able to lift and carry 50 lbs.
  • Job requires long stretches of standing
  • Able to climb and perform work on ladders, cat walks and personnel lifts
  • 35-hour weeks are the standard, but extra hours during load in and tech rehearsals are possible
  • Comfortable opening/closing shop/setting alarm
  • Ability to work in dimly lit/uneven spaces (backstage during tech, trap room, etc.)
  • Driver’s license and able to drive prop van and box truck.

All employees are required to receive the COVID19 vaccination unless a reasonable accommodation has been approved.

Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park continues to monitor the pandemic situation.  Qualified candidates will be expected to comply with Playhouse’s health and safety plan – while at work and outside work – that continues to be updated per latest state and Federal guidelines.

The physical demands and safe working expectations described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of the job, with or without reasonable accommodation.

While this description is intended to be an accurate reflection of the current position, it is not necessarily exhaustive of all responsibilities, duties, requirements, or expectations of this position.  Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park reserves the right to revise or amend this description based on business needs or changes to the work environment.

Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a background check.

To Apply:
Qualified candidates should submit a cover letter, resume and references Elizabeth Lyons, Properties Manager liz.lyons@cincyplay.com and cc: Amy Stier, Human Resources amy.stier@cincyplay.com.  Review of materials will be done on a rolling basis until the position is filled. No phone calls, please.

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Props Manager Sought by Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park

PIP_logoCincinnati Playhouse in the Park is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EEO) and is committed to fostering a culture of diversity and inclusion in all areas of its work, both on and offstage.  Qualified individuals who bring diverse perspectives and life experiences to the workplace are especially encouraged to apply.

Position: Properties Assistant 

Reports to: Props Manager 

Position Start Date: Immediately

Salary Range: $18 per hour, hours flexible up to 30 hours per week.

Position Overview:
Assist in the acquisition, installation and dismantling of props; assist with research as necessary; and perform such other work as assigned.

This is a part-time, seasonal position.

Position Responsibilities: 

  • Collaborating with Props Manager, IATSE Props Artisans, Directors, Designers, and other departments to provide properties for all CPIP productions and ancillary events as needed.
  • Assist in the sourcing of props for rehearsals and productions
  • Assist in the maintenance of an organized prop stock and digital inventory
  • Assisting in load ins, load outs, and tech rehearsals as needed
  • Maintain artistic standards of all Playhouse presented shows and events.
  • Assist with shopping for props and prop making supplies
  • Other duties may be assigned as needed.

Essential Skills and Attributes:

  • Good time management and problem-solving skills.
  • Ability to manage multiple projects at a time with a positive and proactive problem-solving attitude.
  • Self-motivated and detail oriented with excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
  • Realize deadlines in a fast-paced environment
  • Knowledge of shop tools, props building techniques, period styles
  • Embrace a safety orientated work environment.
  • Knowledge of Photoshop, Illustrator, CAD, 3Dprinting, and vinyl cutters a plus

Preferred Skills and Qualifications:

  • Good aesthetic sensibility with an eye for color, proportions, period and style
  • Willingness to learn about new skills, materials, and techniques.
  • 2 years of Props experience or a related field.
  • Able to self-critique and correct their work while maintaining sensitivity to the overall artistic vision.
  • Proficient with web-based searches for new materials and processes.
  • Works well with others and independently.

Work Environment and Physical Demands:

  • Able to lift and carry 25
  • Job requires long stretches of standing
  • Able to climb and perform work on ladders, cat walks and personnel lifts
  • Comfortable opening/closing shop/setting alarm
  • Ability to work in dimly lit/uneven spaces (backstage during tech, trap room, etc.)
  • Driver’s license and able to drive prop van and box truck.

All employees are required to receive the COVID19 vaccination unless a reasonable accommodation has been approved.

Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park continues to monitor the pandemic situation.  Qualified candidates will be expected to comply with Playhouse’s health and safety plan – while at work and outside work – that continues to be updated per latest state and Federal guidelines.

The physical demands and safe working expectations described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of the job, with or without reasonable accommodation.

While this description is intended to be an accurate reflection of the current position, it is not necessarily exhaustive of all responsibilities, duties, requirements, or expectations of this position.  Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park reserves the right to revise or amend this description based on business needs or changes to the work environment.

To Apply:
Qualified candidates should submit a cover letter, resume and references Elizabeth Lyons, Properties Manager liz.lyons@cincyplay.com and cc: Amy Stier, Human Resources amy.stier@cincyplay.com.  Review of materials will be done on a rolling basis until the position is filled. No phone calls, please.

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Assistant Company Manager/Management Associate Sought by Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park

PIP_logoCincinnati Playhouse in the Park is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EEO) and is committed to fostering a culture of diversity and inclusion in all areas of its work, both on and offstage.  Qualified individuals who bring diverse perspectives and life experiences to the workplace are especially encouraged to apply.

Department: Assistant Company Manager/Management Associate
Reports to: Company Manager and Associate Producer
Classification: Full-Time, Seasonal, Hourly, Non-exempt
Position Start Date:  September 6, 2022
Salary Range:  $19.10/hour 

Position Overview:
Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park is searching for an Assistant Company Manager/Management Associate who is interested in both the hospitality side of artist relations as well as learning more about the management side of a nationally recognized regional Theatre. The position primarily works with Company Management but will learn and assist in general management duties. The position may require work outside normal business hours, including evenings and weekends as well as periodic “on call” hours.

Duties include but are not limited to:

  • Assisting Company Manager to provide top notch hospitality service to Playhouse guest artists throughout Playhouse’s Season.
  • Assist in providing out of town artist transportation to and from the Playhouse, grocery runs and doctor visits.
  • Organizing and facilitating grocery runs for visiting artists and/or assisting in expediting grocery delivery on a weekly basis.
  • Assist in maintenance and cleaning of artist housing for visiting artists while identifying apartment problems and issues to the Company Manager.
  • Responsible for updating Playhouse’s Guest Artists’ handbook, information for artists and digital filing for the department.
  • Assist in handling general day-to-day artist needs which may include but is not limited to delivering parcels/luggage to artists’ housing, status of housing wi-fi and cable service before residency and support during residency, checking in on artist well-being throughout their stay and representing the Playhouse when working with outside vendors and service providers.
  • Management Associate duties will include assisting Associate Producer with designer travel, artist contracts, in-house hiring communication and on-boarding packets as well as track delivery and reception of the same.
  • Assist COVID Safety team in scheduling and coordination of artistic/production testing as needed.
  • Coordinate with HR and Payroll all pre-first day training and documentations needed.
  • Learn about theatrical union contracts for better understanding of contract language and help with union compliance reporting.
  • General office work such as scanning and documenting all artist contracts throughout the year into online storage and assist in assembling grant data for various departments.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Ideal Qualifications and Requirements:

  • Hospitality and arts administration experience is preferred.
  • Excellent communication skills.
  • Computer proficiency required, including good working knowledge of Microsoft 360 Office and online programs such as “Sign-up Genius”.
  • High school education and above
  • Interest in theatre and the arts is beneficial.
  • A calm, patient, diplomatic, empathetic, confident and pleasant demeanor in working with artists, co-workers, and volunteers.
  • Comfort with fast-paced environment which calls for flexibility and initiative.
  • High ability to identify and prioritize guest artists’ needs while balancing several projects at a time.
  • Attention to detail, organization and accuracy.
  • Maintains integrity and ethics through difficult situations and conversations.
  • Commitment to DEIA (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Accessibility) values, and the ability to interact and build relationships with people of diverse backgrounds, personalities and working styles.

Work Environment & Physical Demands:

  • Position is primarily located in climate-controlled facilities, except when transporting artists and supplies.
  • Digital dexterity and hand/eye coordination in operation of standard office equipment (computers, phones, photocopiers, and filing cabinets).
  • Position requires a valid driver’s license and the ability to drive a large cargo/passenger van (No CDL required).
  • Physical demands will require an ability to lift up to 50 lbs. (max luggage weight), carrying luggage up and down stairs, pushing, pulling, bending, stooping, kneeling, crouching, general housekeeping skills and occasional non-industrial ladder usage.
  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk, hear, listen, speak, climb stairs, walk and occasionally run.
  • Ability to speak clearly with and hear/listen to co-workers/guest artists/volunteers via phone, texting or in person.
  • Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, color vision, peripheral vision, and ability to adjust focus.

Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a background check.

All employees are required to receive the COVID19 vaccination unless a reasonable accommodation has been approved.

Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park continues to monitor the pandemic situation.  Qualified candidates will be expected to comply with Playhouse’s health and safety plan – while at work and outside work – that continues to be updated per latest state and Federal guidelines.

The physical demands and safe working expectations described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of the job, with or without reasonable accommodation.

While this description is intended to be an accurate reflection of the current position, it is not necessarily exhaustive of all responsibilities, duties, requirements, or expectations of this position.  Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park reserves the right to revise or amend this description based on business needs or changes to the work environment.

To Apply:
Qualified candidates should submit a cover letter, resume, and references to Suann Pollock, Associate Producer (suann.pollock@cincyplay.com) and cc: Amy Stier, Human Resources (amy.stier@cincyplay.com). Review of materials will be done on a rolling basis until the position is filled. No phone calls, please.

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