Tag Archives: The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati

November 14, 2018 · 2:40 pm

SANTA CLAUS The Musical Runs Dec. 8-17

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Ryan J. Poole as Santa. Photo by Mikki Schaffner.

SANTA CLAUS The Musical
The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati
Dec. 8-17
Taft Theater [Downtown]

Directed by Eric Byrd

Cast: Ryan J. Poole as Santa Claus, Katie Spearman Lynch as Mrs. Claus, Bob Herzog as Nick, Aubrey Elizabeth Jones† as Bee, Kyle Krichbaum as Henchy, Heather Hale as Tenchy, Madeleine Burgoon as Punchy, Ella Rivera as Chirpy, Payton Hines† as Dasher, Faith Martin† as Dancer, Marlo D’Ascenzo† as Prancer, Madelynn Glenn† as Vixen, Mia Bella D’Ascenzo† as Comet, Yvonne (Evie) Herrmann† as Cupid, Olivia Bayer† as Donner & Bailey Broxterman† as Blitzen
Elf Ensemble: Nicholas Berninger, Andrew Blake, Sophia Dewald, Maddi O’Connell† & Renee Stoltzfus
† Denotes Young Artists Company

After 1,000 years of faithful service, Santa Claus has decided to retire. But not all the elves in Santa’s Workshop are too thrilled about his chosen replacement. With the help of his tech-savvy daughter, Beatrice, website designer Nick is in for the adventure of his life as he prepares to take over the reins to Santa’s sleigh…before the next Christmas! Jam-packed with a sleigh-full of fun, energetic, and original Christmas music, Santa Claus: The Musical will be sure to put you and your entire family in the holiday spirit!

  • Sat-Sun, Dec. 8-9 at 2pm & 5pm
  • Fri, Dec. 14 at 7:30pm
  • Sat-Sun, Dec. 15-16 at 2pm & 5pm
    Sept. 8 at 2pm is signed for the hearing impaired.
    Sept. 8 at 5pm is exclusive “sensory-friendly” performance.

Official page |

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November 8, 2018 · 9:40 am

The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati Presents SANTA CLAUS: The Musical

TCTC_Santa Clause promo

Ryan J. Poole as Santa. Photo by Mikki Schaffner.

Coming to the Taft Theatre this December

CINCINNATI:  The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati gets audiences in the holiday spirit this season with SANTA CLAUS: THE MUSICAL, December 8-17, 2018 at the Taft Theatre.

After 1,000 years of faithful service, Santa Claus has decided to retire. But not all the elves in Santa’s Workshop are too thrilled about his chosen replacement. With the help of his tech-savvy daughter, Beatrice, website designer Nick is in for the adventure of his life as he prepares to take over the reins to Santa’s sleigh…before the next Christmas!

SANTA CLAUS: THE MUSICAL is jam-packed with a sleigh-full of fun as well as energetic and original Christmas music.  Book by Noah Putterman. Music & Lyrics by David Christensen & Luke Holloway.  Directed by Eric Byrd, TCT’s Associate Artistic Director.  The show features Local 12’s Bob Herzog as Nick, Santa’s chosen replacement.

Showtimes include:

  • Saturday, December 8 at 2 PM* (this performance is signed for the hearing impaired)
  • Saturday, December 8 at 5 PM (this is a designated Sensory-Friendly performance)
  • Sunday, December 9 at 2 PM and 5 PM
  • Friday, December 14 at 7:30 PM
  • Saturday, December 15 at 2 PM and 5 PM
  • Sunday, December 16 at 2 PM and 5 PM

All of The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati’s Broadway-style MainStage productions, including SANTA CLAUS: THE MUSICAL, are performed in the historic Taft Theatre, 5th and Sycamore Streets in Downtown Cincinnati. Tickets start at $10.  1-800-745-3000 and www.ticketmaster.com.

School performances of SANTA CLAUS: THE MUSICAL will be held December 11-14 & 17 during the daytime hours.  TCT’s Sensory-Friendly performance on Saturday, December 8 at 5 PM is intended for individuals on the autism spectrum, as well as children (and adults) with other special needs who may benefit. To create a sensory-friendly performance, the show is performed in a welcoming, supportive environment for those with sensory challenges.  Slight adjustments to lighting and sound are made and effects such as fog, strobes, and lights that extend into the audience are minimalized.  A downloadable Social Narrative (in Word format) is made available on the TCT website one week before the performance.  At the theater, TCT provides an area staffed by specialists in the field where patrons can take a break from the performance if necessary, and Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center has trained staff on hand.

For details about how to purchase tickets to TCT’s school or Sensory-Friendly performances, visit www.thechildrenstheatre.com.

Q102 and The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati are proud to collect items for St. Joseph Orphanage at all performances of SANTA CLAUS: THE MUSICAL. Children and adults are encouraged to bring any new or unwrapped item to the show and we’ll collect them in the Taft Theatre lobby.  In addition, TCT will collect gifts at our Red Bank Road location. Patrons can drop off items in the lobby of our building during business hours.

The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati’s production of SANTA CLAUS: THE MUSICAL is made possible by the generosity of Production Sponsor Macy’s; Season Sponsors H.B., E. W. and F. R. Luther Foundation and the Charles H. Dater Foundation; and ArtsWave and the generosity of almost 40,000 contributors to the ArtsWave Community Campaign.  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 LOCAL 12 and Q102. 

CAST

  • Santa Claus….Ryan J. POOLE
  • Mrs. Claus….KATIE SPEARMAN LYNCH
  • Nick….Bob Herzog
  • Bee….Aubrey Elizabeth Jones†
  • Henchy….Kyle Krichbaum
  • Tenchy….Heather Hale
  • Punchy….Madeleine Burgoon
  • Chirpy….Ella Rivera
  • Dasher….Payton Hines†
  • Dancer….Faith Martin†
  • Prancer….Marlo D’Ascenzo†
  • Vixen….Madelynn Glenn†
  • Comet….Mia Bella D’Ascenzo†
  • Cupid…Yvonne (Evie) Herrmann†
  • Donner….Olivia Bayer†
  • Blitzen….Bailey Broxterman†
  • Elf Ensemble…. Nicholas Berninger, ANDREW BLAKE, Sophia Dewald, Maddi O’Connell† , Renee Stoltzfus

SWINGS

  • For Elf Ensemble – Mia Bella D’Ascenzo† and PAYTON HINES†

DANCE CAPTAIN

  • Renee Stoltzfus

UNDERSTUDIES
For Nick & Santa – Nicholas Berninger; for Henchy – ANDREW BLAKE; for Bee MARLO D’ASCENZO† ; For Tenchy, Chirpy Punchy – Sophia Dewald; for Mrs. Claus – MADDI O’CONNELL†

† Denotes Young Artists Company

 

 

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October 11, 2018 · 3:46 pm

SUPERMAN Review

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Brandi Langford-Sherrill as Lois Land & Evan Koons as Clark Kent.

SUPERMAN presented by The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati through Oct. 14. Click here for a synopsis and more information on the production. I attended the opening Sunday matinee performance.

The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati kicks off its 2018-19 season with a children’s adaption of the musical, IT’S A BIRD…IT’S A PLANE…IT’S SUPERMAN. This was too much for this theater-lovin’ comic book nerd to pass up.

Evan Koons is pitch perfect in the dual roles of Clark Kent and Superman. As Kent, Koons seems to be channeling his inner Christopher Reeve in appearance and mild-mannered-ness. As Superman, Koons’ depiction embodies “the big blue boy scout” of the 1950s comics. Kyle Krichbaum plays scientist Dr. Sedgwick with evil laugh, hand-wringing abandon. As heavy Max Mencken and his poor put-upon secretary Sydney (Spenser Smith & Kristi Rose Mills) this pair gives Lex Luthor and Eve Teschmacher a comic run for their money. The remaining cast and ensemble help bring the colorful world to life and I really enjoyed the mischievous fun of the henchmen.

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The ensemble.

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Kyle Krichbaum as Dr. Sedgwick.

Speaking of bringing the colorful world to life, it was great seeing NKU grad Samantha Reno’s excellent scenic design work once again on a Cincinnati stage. Her colorful, art deco inspired, forced perspective sets and backdrops were near-perfect homages to the comics. How the phone booth was tricked out was also very clever. The only element out of place for me was the Daily Planet logo on the building’s interior. Traditionally the newspaper’s logo features a globe, which was used in the in-show movie and on all the hand-held newspapers. (Did I mention I was a comic book lovin’ nerd?). Also bright and primary color-ful were the costumes designed by Jeff Shearer. From the purple-stripped henchmen to the ladies’ period ensembles, there was plenty to take in. Traditionally in the comics, green and purple are paired in villians’ costumes, so it would have been fun to see that reflected in Dr. Sedgwick’s look as well.

The choreography worked well for the production. I thought the synchronized typists was a cute idea and nothing beats a good old-fashion tap number. The big fight scene could have used a bit more variety, perhaps showcasing some of Superman’s other powers for laughs (i.e. super-breath, invulnerability, and using his super-strength to tie the bad guys up by bending metal around them).

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Evan Koons as Superman.

Overall, a big colorful comic book brought to life on stage, celebrating a simpler time of truth, justice, and the American way that will appeal to fans of all ages.

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.

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October 10, 2018 · 12:05 pm

The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati Presents THE LEGEND OF POCAHONTAS on the Showtime Stage

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Rosvic Siason as Pocahontas.

This November, witness a special 45-minute performance of THE LEGEND OF POCAHONTAS presented by TCT On Tour, the touring division of The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati, on the Ralph & Patricia Corbett Showtime Stage on Red Bank Road.

Do you know the myth, the legend, or the truth? This original musical follows the true story of Pocahontas and how she became an international symbol of peace. Combining history and storytelling with music, follow the truthful account of Pocahontas as she grows from being a curious and brave child to one of the most respected and treasured women in history.

This production was written by Jon Lorenz with orchestrations by 3-time Grammy nominee, Hank Feldman.  TCT’s own Producing Artistic Director, Roderick Justice, directed the production.

Ideal for children in grades 3-12.  Showtimes are:

  • Saturday, November 3, 2018 at 11:00 am – 12:00 pm
  • Saturday, November 3, 2018 at 2:00 pm – 3:00 pm
  • Sunday, November 4, 2018 at 2:00 pm – 3:00 pm

A question-and-answer session with the cast follows every show.

Tickets are $13 each (plus service fees) and are available exclusively through ticketmaster.com or by calling 800-745-3000.  Tickets available now.

The show will be performed on the Ralph and Patricia Corbett Showtime Stage, 4015 Red Bank Road, Cincinnati, OH  45227.  Only 152 seats are available for each performance.

The 4-person cast includes members of The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati Resident Artist Company.  Rosvic Siason plays Pocahontas.  Joey Logan, Ryan Chavez Richmond and Maddie Sensenstein play many different characters throughout the life of Pocahontas.

TCT On Tour is bringing the production of THE LEGEND OF POCAHONTAS to schools and venues around the Tri-State and throughout the region from September 10 through November 4.  If you’re interested in booking, please contact Violet Rae Webster at 513-569-8080 x20 or by emailing violet.webster@tctcincinnati.com.

Don’t miss our brand-new Podcast, Audio Footlights. Hosted by Producing Artistic Director, Roderick Justice, listeners will get to know the actor playing Pocahontas, Rosvic Siason. This podcast is designed to look at the shows we produce, and to ignite, impact and inspire all of our young listeners to have a lifelong love of theatre. Flex your imagination and join us!

This free TCT Podcast runs about 8 minutes, and is currently available on iTunes as well as Stitcher, SoundCloud, GooglePlay, TuneIn and Spotify!

Here’s a link to SoundCloud:  https://soundcloud.com/tctcincinnati/audio-footlights-the-legend-of-pocahontas-edition

TCT On Tour is sponsored by Macy’s, PNC and Mercy Health Foundation.  The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati is supported by the Ohio Arts Council and the generosity of more than 40,000 contributors to the ArtsWave Community Campaign.

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September 10, 2018 · 1:05 pm

The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati Presents SUPERMAN™ 

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Evan Koons as Superman and Brandi Langford-Sherrill as Loi Lane. Photo by Mikki Schaffner.

He “flies” into the Taft Theatre this October

CINCINNATI:  The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati will take audiences “up, up and away” with a SUPER season opener when they present SUPERMAN™ October 6-15, 2018 at the Taft Theatre.

SUPERMAN™ is the tale of the Man of Steel’s efforts to defeat a vengeful scientist, the new villain Dr. Abner Sedgwick, who seeks to destroy the world’s symbol of good. In this premiere adaptation of the 1966 musical, It’s a Bird, It’s a Plane, It’s Superman, this brand-new version is a comic book come-to-life. Geared to young audiences, this musical will be sure to soar up, up and away into the hearts of all children and the young at heart.

The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati’s creative team, theatrical licensing agent Tams-Witmark, and DC Comics have joined forces to adapt and premier a TYA (Theatre for Young Audiences) version of the 1966 musical It’s A Bird, It’s a Plane, It’s Superman (SUPERMAN™)

Book by David Newman and Robert Benton. Based upon the comic strip “Superman.” Music by Charles Strouse. Lyrics by Lee Adams. Broadway production produced by Harold Prince. In association with Ruth Mitchell. Directed for the Broadway stage by Harold Prince. Adapted for Tams-Witmark by The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati. Script Adaption: Eric Byrd, Associate Artistic Director. Musical Arrangements: Brian Hoffman, Music Director. Roderick Justice, Producing Artistic Director

“We are 94 years young – and we still haven’t grown up!” said Producing Artistic Director, Roderick Justice.  “After two years in the making, we are thrilled to kick off our season with an exciting collaboration.”

President of Tams-Witmark, Sargent Aborn, states, “The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati had this wonderful idea to create a TYA version of “It’s a Bird, It’s a Plane, It’s Superman“. Tams-Witmark and the authors of the show are excited to see the results.”

Important to note:  The Children’s Theatre’s four Broadway-style MainStage productions are performed in the historic Taft Theatre in downtown Cincinnati.

SUPERMAN™ presented by The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati, 6-15, 2018.  Saturday, October 6 at 2 PM* (this performance is signed for the hearing impaired), Sunday, October 7 at 2 PM, Sunday, October 7 at 5 PM, Friday, October 12 at 7:30 PM, Saturday, October 13 at 2 PM, Saturday, October 13 at 5 PM, Sunday, October 14 at 2 PM at the Taft Theatre, 5th and Sycamore Streets in Downtown Cincinnati. Tickets start at $10.  1-800-745-3000 and  www.ticketmaster.com.

School performances of SUPERMAN™ will be held October 9-12 & 15, 2018 during the daytime hours.  For details about how to purchase tickets to TCT’s school performances, visit www.thechildrenstheatre.com.

The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati’s production of SUPERMAN™ is made possible by the generosity of Production Sponsors Edyth B. Lindner and TriHealth; Season Sponsors H.B., E. W. and F. R. Luther Foundation and the Dater Foundation; and the and the generosity of almost 40,000 contributors to the ArtsWave Community Campaign.  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 LOCAL 12 and Q102.

CAST (in Alphabetical Order): 

  • Superman/Clark Kent…EVAN KOONS
  • Lois Lane…BRANDI LANGFORD-SHERRILL
  • Dr. Sedgwick…KYLE KRICHBAUM
  • Sydney…KRISTI ROSE MILLS
  • Max Mencken…SPENSER SMITH
  • Perry White/Ensemble…REGINALD HEMPHILL
  • Ensemble…ANDREW BLAKE
  • Ensemble…IAN TIMOTHY FORSGREN
  • Ensemble…HALEY GILLMAN
  • Ensemble…ANNA GORTNER
  • Ensemble…HEATHER HALE
  • Ensemble…KYNDRA D. JEFFERIES
  • Ensemble…MATT KRIEG
  • Ensemble…DYLAN MCGILL
  • Ensemble…ASHLEY OLIVIA MORTON
  • Ensemble…HOPE PAULY
  • Ensemble…NEAL STANSEL
  • Ensemble…RENEE STOLTZFUS
  • Ensemble…EMBRY THIELMEIER
  • Ensemble…LOGAN WEINFURTNER

YOUNG ARTISTS COMPANY

  • Ensemble…AUBREY ELIZABETH JONES
  • Ensemble…MADDI O’CONNELL
  • Ensemble…KIP RICHARDSON

UNDERSTUDIES

For Sydney – HEATHER HALE; for Sedgwick & Perry White – DYLAN MCGILL; for Guide & Kappa Girls — HOPE PAULY; for Max & Superman/Clark Kent – NEAL STANSEL; for Lois Lane – RENEE STOLTZFUS

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