KCstagE Non-profit Formation Workshop 6pm-8pm Thursday, November 17 Kansas City Artists Coalition, 201 Wyandotte

Accounting for Non-accountants 6pm-8pm Thursday, December 15 Kansas City Artists Coalition, 201 Wyandotte Blog Notes www.kcstage.com/blog Looking for Granada Theatre Stories Mark Gilman Wins Pinnacle Award Lori Lee Triplett, the artistic director of The Johnson County Library Foundation Imago Dei Arts, is looking for stories and has named Mark Gilman as the winner memories involving the Granada Theatre of a 2011 Pinnacle Award. Gilman has in KCK, specifically dealing with the years been instrumental developing the capa- 1929 to 2010. If you performed there, had bilities of arts organizations throughout an exhibition, worked on remodeling, or the metro, serving on the board of The even attended a show, you can go to www. Barn Players, Missouri Repertory Theater granadatheatrekck.com/?page_id=10 (now Kansas City Rep), Arts Council of and enter your story. Johnson County, Arts Advisory Committee at Johnson County Community College, and Kansas Arts Commission. Gilman has cover [from left]: Cherry and Da- KC Film Fest call for entries directed productions and acted on stage, The 16th annual Kansas City FilmFest, mian Blake. Photo by Bob Compton. and has even provided pro bono printing presented by the Kansas City Filmmakers services to local high school theaters. Jubilee, is looking for entries. The early Top Billing deadline has already passed, but you still Spotlight on Annie Cherry have three more chances: Nov 11, Dec 2012 Poetry Out Loud and Damian Blake...... 2 16, and Jan 13. The festival itself is April The Missouri Arts Council’s Poetry Out 11-15. For more information, you can call Loud competition, part of the national Starring (816) 286-4777, e-mail info@kcjubilee. program of the same name, is open for Letters from the List...... 4 org, or visit kcfilmfest.org. registration by schools. A national arts From Sunlight to Laserlight...... 5 education program dedicated to encour- KKFI Improves Broadcast Quality...... 14 aging the study of great poetry through a Ulla Ames and the Nutcracker...... 16 Writers Place Screenplay Workshop dynamic recitation competition for high The Writers Place will be presenting a schools across the country, it aims to build Stand-Ins workshop designed for the beginner or speaking skills, develop an appreciation Auditions...... 17 intermediate screenwriter, hosted by Mitch for poetry, and increase self-confidence. Blog Notes...... 1 Brian, who teaches screenwriting and film Calendar...... 8 Registration must be postmarked by Nov studies at UMKC. “Mastering the Screen- Events...... 13 30. For more information about the Mis- play: Using Structure, Form and Imagery to Film Clips...... 13 souri competition contact Poetry Out Loud Performances...... 6 Create a Successful Screenplay” is sched- coordinator Virginia Sanders toll free at uled for Nov 19 from 12:30 to 4:30 pm, 866-407-4752 or visit www.missouri- Cast of Characters and the workshop is $40 for members of artscouncil.org/page/89. R Scott Bowling...... Webmaster the Writers Place, and $60 for nonmem- Richard Buswell...... Managing Editor bers. More information can be found at Cassandra Whitney...... Graphic Designer writersplace.org. Angie Fiedler Sutton...... Associate Editor Tricia Kyler Bowling...... Subscriber Rep Bryan Colley...... Blog Curator

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KCVol. 14 • No.stag 1 • Issue 147 • Nov e2011 [email protected] • 816-23-STAGE PO Box 410492 • Kansas City, Missouri 64141-0492 December Submission Deadline: November 10 www.kcstage.com © Copyright 2011 by KC Stage. All material contained in this pub- lication is the property of or licensed for use by KC Stage. Any use, duplication, or reproduction of any or all content of this publication is prohibited except with the express written permission of KC Stage or the original copyright holders. Printing by Alphagraphics.  www.kcstage.com NOVEMBER 2011 1

Continued on page PB Spotlight on Damian Blake and Annie Cherry by Pete Bakely

I wander onto the lawn of the Blake/Cherry house to man High school in Independence. Both studied to be find Annie Cherry and Damian Blake on the porch. multimedia artists. Annie’s got a curly red wig in a mesh bag and she’s Annie studied video production, such as it was, in hanging it out in the warm night air. 1997. “I could do ‘morphing’, like in that Michael Jack- “I need to wash my wigs out. After a day that the son video,” she says with her trademark smirk. Renaissance Festival, they’re just loaded with dirt.” Damian’s parents encouraged his graphic talents. Annie has been a regular feature of the Ren Fest for the “You’re going to be an artist. That’s what you’re going 2011 season, where she plays “The Virgin” at Madame to do, they told me,” says Damian. “It was the only Red’s Brothel. thing I was really good at.” “It’s like half the road ends up in my wig,” she says. Damian also appeared in school plays. Annie was Annie Cherry and Damian Blake are so much in less adventurous. The performing bug would not bite demand these days that wig maintenance has become her for a few years. a real issue for them. The weekends at the Kansas City After high school, Annie went to Penn Valley Com- Renaissance Festival are one of the many performances munity College to study video production. She got a job that Annie is juggling right now and Damian isn’t far at SRO Video in Westport. At twenty-two she eloped behind. According to their website, www.anniecherry- with a man she had known briefly, got pregnant imme- artemusvulgaris.com, the performances that Annie diately, and quit college. She had her son, Owen. She Cherry has appeared in this year alone include The divorced. Accidental Waiter at Lydia’s (as The Waif), Grimm and Damian went to Blue River Community College for a Bare It with the Kansas City Society of Burlesque (as year after high school, then discovered Park University Sleeping Beauty), Ron Megee’s Seedy Sideshow, plus 23 in Parkville, Mo. He spent his time in the art department, other productions, revues, and films going back to the run by Donna Bachman and the theater department run first of the year and it is only November. Damian Blake, by marsha morgan. “Park was so small and personal,” who performs under the stage name Artemus Vulgaris, says Damian. He eventually received a BA in fine arts has appeared in roughly the same number. Most of the with a minor in theater. time they get to work together, but each will work solo. Single mother Annie began studying herbalism with After thinking about it, Annie says, “I think I’ve been Kansas City expert Khala Wheeler. Annie was part of performing burlesque longer than anyone else currently the original staff that opened Phoenix Herbs on Main performing in town. We sit in their living room and talk Street. Whole Foods grocery next door noticed Annie about their parallel careers.” and started courting her with sweet words like “larger Full disclosure time: the author of this piece has salary” and “benefits”. She made the switch and moved known the couple for a while and counts them among to work at Whole Foods. his friends. He met Damian at Park College, now Park Damian remembers, “I sort of met Annie at the herb University, where the two acted together in You Can’t store, before we knew each other.” Take It With You. The author also appeared with the Annie cuts in, “Todd my manager remembers, too, couple in the short film “Fringe Follies”. There will be because I remember telling him, I met this guy, he was no attempt at media non-bias in the following article. really awesome, but he had a wedding ring on ....” Damian: “I remembered you too, because you were Early Days so friendly to me.” They were both born in the same year in the same town Annie smirks, “Yeah, I was.” – 1979 in Independence, Mo. Annie went to school in the Damian smiles wryly and says with only a slight Kansas City, Mo. district, first at Border Star Elementary, trace of irony, “And you were staring at me, like you then at the Paseo School of the Arts for her high school were staring into my soul.” years. Damian went to Blackburn Elementary, then Tru- Continued on page 5

2 KCSTAGE “Good theatre should spark debate, not applause.” ~ Anonymous From Sunlight to Laserlight by Kerry Chafin

Theatrical light design is a relatively new art form with a rich history full of innovation discovery. Theatre, as we think of it today, began in the open air theatres of Greece. Here, sunlight was used to light the stage and actors. Torchlight and fires were also used when needed. The idea of only using natural light fol- lows throughout the ages into the dark and middle ages. Fire was used as a special effect. For example, the mansion or wagon depicting Hell’s mouth did belch real flame for mystery plays.

Italian Renaissance This is where stage lighting truly began to take shape and form. Theatre began to move indoors leading to a real development of theatrical inventions such as sce- nic settings and painting methods. General light was achieved with torches and chandeliers hung above and towards the front of the stage. The chandelier had reflec- tive glass containers filled with liquid to aim the light toward the stage. Candles and torches were the main source of light during this time period. The first recorded stage lighting instrument was the bozze. It was a glass container in assorted convex and concave shapes. A bozze could be used as a lamp when filled with oil and wick, or it could be filled with color liquids and used as color media, lenses, or reflectors. Mirrors were used to amplify the bozze. This is also when darkening of the auditoriums became popular. Throughout the Renaissance lighting became increas- ingly systemized as the use of proscenium lights, footlights, and sidelights were developed and put to use. These techniques began to move throughout Europe and into England after the Puritan Revolution had halted English theatre. Candles with reflectors were used in abundance. Lighting continued to be tweaked and enhanced with experimentations in intensity, color, and placement. Light- ing began to be used to create depth and perception to the innovative scenic designs that were being produced.

The Argand Lamp Stage lighting was also growing brighter. More and more candles were being added creating a wonderful spectacle and horrible fire hazards. In 1784, the Argand lamp was developed. It was an oil lamp with a chim- Continued on page 14 www.kcstage.com Ulla Ames and “The Nutcracker” by Carrie Emmons

Ulla-Maija Halonen was born in 1942 in Viborg, Finland glandon

(now a part of Russia), and grew up in Turku, Finland.

As a child, she took ballet and that’s where she discov- joanie ered one of her life’s passions. As she grew older, she trained and danced with the Finnish Opera Ballet. She came to Canada when she was 16 and moved to the US when she was 21 to attend school. Ulla was a part of the first ballet performance at Brigham Young University in their new field house. The performance was to Handel’s Water Music, choreographed by Joan Koralewski. It was on her 22nd birthday when a friend took her to see Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker for the very first time at the Utah Civic Ballet. (When she was a child, The Nutcracker was not very popular in Europe so she did not know the ballet.) She then attended and danced at the University of Christensen how she wanted to create a Nutcracker that Utah, where she met her future husband, Allen Ames. was for children by children with only a few adults in Allen grew up on a dairy farm in Utah and knew nothing the performance. He thought it was a wonderful idea about ballet when he met Ulla. She opened her first ballet and said he wished there was a way he could help her school, married Allen in 1966, and continued teaching. with the choreography, but he didn’t have any video The three brothers - Willam, Lew and Harold Chris- recordings of his early versions. tensen - originally brought The Nutcracker to the US in She created her version from the memory she had in 1944. It was the first full-length ver- of the first time she saw Christensen’s production. She sion of this classic ever presented in the United States. says several things came directly from her memory - The Christensens’ Nutcracker, created a decade before like having Clara instead of Marie and having Mother George Balanchine’s production in New York, helped Buffoon and all her little ones. establish the tradition of presenting this Tchaikovsky “Of course, our characters have increased because ballet as a Christmas holiday treat. Willam Christensen more children need parts!” Miss Ulla says adamantly came to Utah and started the Utah Civic Ballet (later with a twinkle in her eye. She adds, “We did have to called Ballet West), where he continued performing shorten a few of the pieces of music to hold the interest The Nutcracker. of some people who are non-balletomaniacs.” Ulla studied ballet under Willam Christensen at She and Allen have eight children - five boys and the University of Utah. She would send her students three girls. She decided to choreograph the Trepak (Rus- from her ballet school to audition for The Nutcracker at sian dance) for five dancers because she had five sons the Utah Civic Ballet. Over the years, only a very few who were all stair step height. Her husband, who knew of her students would be chosen to participate. She nothing of ballet when they met, has danced the role of saw the potential in all of her students and how much Herr Drosselmeier ever since their very firstNutcracker . they loved to learn the roles and dance to the classic At first, he did it because she loved it, but now he also music. An idea began to form and she went to visit with truly appreciates the beauty of classical ballet. Christensen about her thoughts for The Nutcracker. He Her studio performed a few years of The Nutcracker sat on the edge of his desk and told her the story of in Utah, where she and a couple of her students’ parents how he and his brothers brought the ballet to the US sewed the costumes. She and her family then moved in their first year. They did the second act only, but to Independence and they brought the costumes with then the second year they did the full ballet. Ulla told them. She and Allen opened Ballet Conservatory of

“Don’t think. Thinking is the enemy of creativity. It’s self-conscious, and anything self-conscious 4 KCSTAGE is lousy. You can’t try to do things. You simply must do things.” ~ Ray Bradbury  Ulla Ames and The Nutcracker  Spotlight on Annie Cherry and Damian Blake continued from page 5

Independence in July and had their first Nutcracker They begin to perform performance that December. This year marks the 24th Annie was the first to take the plunge. She had started consecutive performance of Ulla Ames’ Nutcracker in taking belly dancing lessons and through that formed the Kansas City area. Some of the original costumes a three girl troupe that performed at small arts events are still being worn year after year by her students. She around Kansas City. She met Amy Nelson, who as Etta designed and sewed the costumes, designed and helped Vendetta was running a show called Etta Vendetta’s Eye- create the sets, as well as choreographed a thoroughly full Tower. Annie convinced her that her show needed entertaining, engaging, and delightful children’s ver- a belly dancer. sion. Over the years all of her eight children and almost “I told her, every classic burlesque crew has a belly all of her thirty-two grandchildren currently dance or dancer,” remembers Annie. “She really went out on a have danced in The Nutcracker. limb for me, bringing me in.” Ulla says proudly, “We have always had enough The band that played for that first burlesque per- boys. We have never duplicated boy parts with girl formance included well known local musicians Marco dancers.” She laughs as she says, “I think it is because of Pascalini, Mark Southerland, Jeff Harshbarger, and creative costuming - we don’t make them wear tights!” “Duck” McClain. She adds “We are also open to giving anyone an oppor- Annie smiles, “The band learned they had they had tunity to perform.” Just like with her husband who knew an extra song. There was an extra number rehearsed that nothing about ballet - she expects students to learn and had no performer attached to it, so I said ‘I’ll do it’ and discover a new joy in dancing! I worked up a chair dance number.” She got the news Her students attest that not only have they been with a month to go before performance but an opportu- taught ballet correctly, but also that they have been nity arose and the troupe did a preview the next night. instilled with principals of morality and character devel- “That’s how I got my stage name. My real name is opment. Ulla sees the potential in her students and helps Annie Stewart Cherry Montgomery. My nickname as a them discover it for themselves. kid was Annie Cherry. I thought I had a month to come Ulla is a Royal Academy of Dance member and reg- up with something good, so [that night] I said just call istered teacher of almost 40 years. She has taught ballet me this.” The name turned out to be perfect. for nearly 50 years and has had hundreds of students That first performance was an eye opener for Annie. during her career. Thousands have seen her produc- “I was chugging Pepto-Bismol, I was panicked until my tions, and, for some, it may have been the first time foot hit that stage. Then I was fine.” in their life that they were exposed to ballet. She has She got picked up by KC’s top burlesque troupe at the choreographed and, along with her husband, produced time, the Burly Q Girly Crew. This got her a job teaching many ballets including Cinderella, Swan Lake, Sleeping burlesque for the City in Motion Dance . In Beauty, Peter and the Wolf, Red Shoes, Little Match Girl, her classes were Kitty Von Minx and Honey Valentine and Hansel and Gretel. and Lucky Deluxe, with whom she formed the nucleus Her legacy continues on through her children, grand- of the Kansas City Society of Burlesque. children, and students. All of her boys have gone on to Single parenting got in the way of teaching, so Annie other successful careers and her girls are all still involved left the job to Lucky Deluxe, now a successful burlesque in ballet. Many of her former students continue danc- performer in . In September of 2008, Lucky’s ing, some professionally - many are ballet teachers and class had a young dancer/actress from Park University there are ballet studios all over the country started by in her class. It was Laura Blake, then married to, now former students of Ulla. R amicably divorced from, Damian. Damian claims that he did his first Charlie Chaplin Ballet Conservatory presents the 24th annual performance imitation at the age of three. As a young man he took of The Nutcracker Dec. 2, 3 and 10. More information every opportunity to dress up like Chaplin. He busked can be fond at www.balletconservatory.net. Continued on page 15 www.kcstage.com NOVEMBER 2011 5 Performances www.kcstage.com/performances ACT One of Kansas City* grand You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown: le Nov 17-19: 7 pm Thr-Sat; 9:30 am Fri; 2 pm Sat shannon $5-$9. Harmony Vineyard Auditorium, 600 NE 46th St., (816) 401-0040, www. act1kc.com

The Barn Players, Inc.* Sweet Charity by Cy Coleman, Dorothy Fields, and : Nov 4-20: 7:30 pm Fri-Sat; 2 pm Sun Charity Valentine is the eternal optimist. While working at the seedy Fan-Dango ball- room, she is often taken advantage of and continually experiences bad relationships. Finally, she seems to have met a decent fellow in Oscar. Trying to hide her true pro- fession, she lies to him and tells her that she The cast of You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown by at ACT One of KC, playing Nov 17-19. works in a bank. Soon, Oscar asks Charity to marry him. Unfortunately, Oscar discovers enjoyed a hugely successful tour of Eng- suburbs have been largely ignored by musi- Charity’s real profession and backs out of land and a season at London’s Dominion cal theater - until now. Suburb takes an the marriage. Directed by Eric Van Horn. Theatre starring the late Anthony Newly. insightful, witty, and nuanced view of the $15; seniors $12; students $7; 10 or more Included are six new songs not performed in world of the lawnmower, the barbecue, and $10. The Barn Players, 6219 Martway St, the film. Call for ticket prices. Blue Springs the mall, exploring Suburb’s rites and ritu- (913) 432-9100, www.thebarnplayers.org Civic Center, 2000 NW Ashton Dr, (816) als with a four-person chorus and four main 228-0137, www.bluespringscitytheatre.com characters. Directed by Jessica Franz. $10; Belton High School Theatre* musicals $12; dinner theatre $23 & $16 Bye Bye Birdie by Michael Stewart: w/season ticket. Roger T. Sermon Center, Chestnut Fine Arts Theatre 201 N Dodgion St, (816) 325-7367, www. Nov 3-6: 7 pm Fri-Sat; 7:30 pm Thr; Tribute to the Big Bands: Nov 3-Dec 11: citytheatreofindependence.org A 2 pm Sun 8 pm Thr-Sat; 3 pm Sat; 2 pm Sun Bye Bye Birdie revolves around rock ‘n’ A Tribute to the Big Bands is a trip back roll superstar Conrad Birdie (loosely based to a WWII U.S.O. show! A full band takes Corbin Theatre Company on Elvis Presley) who, to the dismay of his the stage to give you favorite tunes from The Hallelujah Girls by Jessie Jones, adoring fans, is about to be drafted into the the 30’s and 40’s, along with your most Nicholas Hope, Jamie Wooten: Army. Comic complications ensue when, loved holiday melodies. Add 4 talented Dec 1-10: 7:30 pm Thr-Sun as part of one last publicity stunt cooked vocalists, and you end up with a celebra- Hilarity abounds in this Dramatists Play up by his agent, he promises to give a tion of American music! “In the Mood”, Service, Inc., comedy when the feisty good-bye kiss to one lucky girl from Sweet “Pennsylvania 6-500”, “White Christmas”. females of Eden Falls, , decide Apple, Ohio on The Ed Sullivan Show. (Rated G). Directed by Brad Zimmerman. to shake up their lives. The action in this Directed by Tabatha Babcock. $6. Belton Featuring Julie Shaw, Jon Daugharthy, and rollicking Southern comedy takes place in High Forum Theatre, 107 Pirate Pkwy, Leah Berry. $23, discounts for seniors, SPA-DEE-DAH!, the abandoned church- (816) 348-2721, [email protected] children, & groups. Chestnut Fine Arts turned-day-spa where this group of friends Center, 234 N Chestnut St, (913) 764- gathers every Friday afternoon. After the Blue Springs City Theatre* 2121, chestnutfinearts.com loss of a dear friend, the women real- ize time is precious, and if they’re going Scrooge: the Musical by Leslie Bricusse: to change their lives and achieve their Dec 1-11: 7:30 pm Thr-Sat; 2 pm Sun City Theatre of Independence* dreams, they have to get on it now! In 1970, renowned writer-composer-lyricist Suburb by David Javerbaum and Bob Directed by Maggie Thomas. $10. Corbin Leslie Bricusse adapted the classic Charles Cohen: Nov 3-13: 8 pm Thr-Sat; Theatre Company, 15 N Water St, (816) Dickens tale A Christmas Carol into the hit 2 pm Sun 476-2705, www.corbintheatre.org screen musical Scrooge! Now available as For all the books, movies, and sitcoms that a charming stage musical, Scrooge! has have either eulogized or vilified them, the

*Affiliate Organizations offer discounts to subscribers of KC Stage. Display your member- Content Guide: Unless otherwise noted, the subject matter of performances should ship card at the box office or mention it when ordering tickets over the phone. For a list be suitable for general audiences. Shows marked with A contain adult material that of discounts and other offers, visit www.kcstage.com. Don’t forget to rate or review the may not be appropriate for children under the age of 18. Shows marked C contain shows you see online! material that is specifically intended for children. Please note that these content markings are designated by the individual arts organizations, not by KC Stage.

“It is difficult to produce a television documentary that is both incisive and probing when every 6 KCSTAGE twelve minutes one is interrupted by twelve dancing rabbits singing about toilet paper.” ~ Rod Serling  Performances

Eurydice must journey to the underworld, where she reunites with her father and independence

struggles to remember her lost love. With of contemporary characters, ingenious plot twists, and breath-taking visual effects, the theatre play is a fresh look at a timeless love story. city Directed by John Henningsen. Featuring Alex Burton, Elise Blann, Andrew Walker, Jamarious Wicker, Tommy Govert, Aubrey Near, and Danielle Roberts. $4-$15. Karl C. Bruder Theatre, King Hall, (620) 341- 6378, www.emporia.edu/theatre

Folly Theater Peter Nero: Nov 5: 8 pm Sat Tickets $35, $27, $18. Folly Theater, 300 W 12th St, (816) 842-5500, www.folly- theater.org

Harriman-Jewell Series Alek Shrader, Tenor: Free Discovery Julie McDaniel takes time out for an important call in City Theatre of Independence’s Concert: Nov 19: 7 pm Sat production of Suburb, playing Nov 3-13. The young tenor was featured in the Metropolitan Opera’s documentary The The Coterie Theatre Egads Theatre Company* Audition. “Everything about this artist is Seussical: Nov 1-Dec 31: 2 pm Fri-Sun; Evil Dead: The Musical by George Rein- natural and effortless, so different from 4 pm Fri-Sat; 7 pm Fri; 10 am, 12 pm blatt; Frank Cipolla, Christopher Bond, just about everybody else,” reported San Mon-Fri Melissa Morris, & Rob Daleman: Oct 3- Francisco Classical Voice. The New York The plots of Horton Hears a Who and Nov 4: 8 pm Thr-Fri; 11:30 pm Fri Times’ A. Tommasini wrote “High C is Mr. Horton Hatches the Egg are tunefully It’s back! Bigger, better and bloodier than Shrader’s money note, and the audience interwoven in this widely celebrated and before! Evil Dead The Musical is an all- went wild after his full-voiced final one.” critically acclaimed celebration of Dr. Seuss. singing, all-dancing, gory extravaganza! The Cleveland native is the recipient of a The Coterie was credited in The New York Based on Sam Raimi’s cult horror com- Sarah Tucker grant and a winner of the Times for originating this version “for all edies, this hard-rocking farce follows five 2007 Metropolitan Opera National Coun- ages” ... a true family classic! Adults: $15; friends to an abandoned cabin in the cil Auditions. Folly Theater, 300 W 12th St, youth, students, or seniors: $10. The Cote- woods where they unwittingly unleash an (816) 415-5923, www.hjseries.org rie Theatre, 2450 Grand Blvd, Ste 144, ancient evil force hell-bent on converting Sir James Galway and Lady Jeanne (816) 474-6552, www.coterietheatre.org them to Candarian demon zombies. Blood Galway, Flutists: Nov 3: 7:30 pm Thr and bad jokes will fly! Ask about our Splat- From Sir James Galway’s lips have come ter Zone! You don’t have to like zombies, definitive treatments of classical repertoire Crossroads Theatre Company horror movies, or even musicals to love this : The Adventures of Huckleberry and masterworks by Bach, Vivaldi, and show! Directed by Steven Eubank. Music Finn by Roger Miller, & William Haupt- Mozart and also contemporary music directed by Kevin Bogan: Choreographed man: Nov 4-13: 7 pm Fri-Sat; 2 pm Sun including new flute works commissioned by by Derek Ferguson and Ashley Otis: Stage Twain’s timeless classic sweeps us down him and for him. “All performing musicians managed by Ashley Pike. Featuring Samn the mighty Mississippi as the irrepressible aspire to the condition of James Galway: Wright, Chioma Anyanwu, Noah Whit- Huck Finn helps his friend Jim, a slave, he has a technical mastery so complete more, Aurelie Roque, Dana Joel Nicholson, escape to freedom at the mouth of the that it makes everything look easy,” pro- Katie Karel, Ethan Miller, and Ashley Otis. Ohio River. Their adventures along the way claimed the Los Angeles Times. “No one $20 for center and Splatter Zone; $15 for are hilarious, suspenseful, and heartwarm- in their right mind, or ear, could object sides; $12.50 for student rush. Off Center ing. Huck is joined by Tom Sawyer, their to such committed, insightful and lovable Theatre, 2450 Grand Blvd, (816) 842- rowdy gang of pals and Huck’s drunken performances.” Folly Theater, 300 W 12th 9999, egadstheatre.com A father. Propelled by an award winning St, (816) 415-5923, www.hjseries.org score from Roger Miller, the king of coun- Vienna Symphony Orchestra led by try music, this jaunty journey provides a Emporia State University Theatre Fabio Luisi with Eroica Trio: Nov 9: brilliantly theatrical celebration of pure Eurydice by Sarah Ruhl: Nov 30-Dec 3: 7 pm Wed Americana. Directed by Rachael Redler. 7:30 pm Wed-Sat Under the direction of Fabio Luisi, the Adult $9, children age 10 and under $7. Sarah Ruhl re-imagines the classic myth orchestra for the City of Vienna will have Crossroads Theatre Company, 7917 Main of Orpheus through the eyes of its hero- St, (816) 931-8420, ine. Dying too young on her wedding day, Continued on page 10 www.kcstage.com NOVEMBER 2011 7 KCSTAGE november 2011 *Affiliate Theatre 31 mon 1 tue 4 fri 5 sat 6 sun Evil Dead: The Musical • Egads Theatre Company Move Over Mrs. Markham • New Theatre Restaurant Big River • Crossroads Theatre Company Anda Union • Lied Center of Kansas • The Resident Theatre Seussical • The Coterie Theatre Bye Bye Birdie • Belton High School Theatre* Avenue Q • The Resident Theatre Big River • Crossroads Theatre Company Dracula • River City Community Players Big River • Crossroads Theatre Company Bye Bye Birdie • Belton High School Theatre* Evil Dead: The Musical • Egads Theatre Company Bye Bye Birdie • Belton High School Theatre* Dracula • River City Community Players 2 wed 3 thu Go, Dog. Go! • Paul Mesner Puppets* Concert 2: Strange Nonsense • newEar* Go, Dog. Go! • Paul Mesner Puppets* Go, Dog. Go! • Paul Mesner Puppets* Bye Bye Birdie • Belton High School Theatre* Move Over Mrs. Markham • New Theatre Restaurant Così Fan Tutte • Lyric Opera of Kansas City Move Over Mrs. Markham • New Theatre Restaurant Move Over Mrs. Markham • New Theatre Restaurant Evil Dead: The Musical • Egads Theatre Company The Psychic • River City Players Dracula • River City Community Players Seussical • The Coterie Theatre Seussical • The Coterie Theatre Go, Dog. Go! • Paul Mesner Puppets* Seussical • The Coterie Theatre Go, Dog. Go! • Paul Mesner Puppets* Suburb • City Theatre of Independence* Move Over Mrs. Markham • New Theatre Restaurant Suburb • City Theatre of Independence* Move Over Mrs. Markham • New Theatre Restaurant Sweet Charity • The Barn Players, Inc.* Seussical • The Coterie Theatre Super Happy Fun Comedy Hour • The Roving Imp Playwrights-in-Residence Play Readings • William A Tribute to the Big Bands • Chestnut Fine Arts Suburb • City Theatre of Independence* Theater* Inge Center for the Arts* A Tribute to the Big Bands • Chestnut Fine Arts Sweet Charity • The Barn Players, Inc.* The Psychic • River City Players A Tribute to the Big Bands • Chestnut Fine Arts Seussical • The Coterie Theatre Suburb • City Theatre of Independence* Super Happy Fun Comedy Hour • The Roving Imp Theater* Sweet Charity • The Barn Players, Inc.* A Tribute to the Big Bands • Chestnut Fine Arts

7 mon 8 tue 11 fri 12 sat 13 sun This • Martin Tanner Productions Seussical • The Coterie Theatre All My Sons • Metropolitan Ensemble Theatre All My Sons • Metropolitan Ensemble Theatre All My Sons • Metropolitan Ensemble Theatre Anatomy of Gray • JCCC, Department of Theatre All My Sons • University of Kansas Theatre All My Sons • University of Kansas Theatre Big River • Crossroads Theatre Company Anatomy of Gray • JCCC, Department of Theatre Anatomy of Gray • JCCC, Department of Theatre 9 wed 10 thu Così Fan Tutte • Lyric Opera of Kansas City Avenue Q • The Resident Theatre Avenue Q • The Resident Theatre Così Fan Tutte • Lyric Opera of Kansas City All My Sons • Metropolitan Ensemble Theatre Dracula • River City Community Players Big River • Crossroads Theatre Company Big River • Crossroads Theatre Company An Evening with David Sedaris • Lied Center of Avenue Q • The Resident Theatre The Farnsworth Invention • UMKC Theatre Dracula • River City Community Players Così Fan Tutte • Lyric Opera of Kansas City Kansas The Farnsworth Invention • UMKC Theatre Go, Dog. Go! • Paul Mesner Puppets* The Farnsworth Invention • UMKC Theatre The Farnsworth Invention • UMKC Theatre Go, Dog. Go! • Paul Mesner Puppets* Go, Dog. Go! • Paul Mesner Puppets* A Man For All Seasons • Jewell Theatre* Go, Dog. Go! • Paul Mesner Puppets* Go, Dog. Go! • Paul Mesner Puppets* Seussical • The Coterie Theatre A Man For All Seasons • Jewell Theatre* Nuncrackers • Theatre Atchison A Man For All Seasons • Jewell Theatre* Nuncrackers • Theatre Atchison Seussical • The Coterie Theatre The Psychic • River City Players Nuncrackers • Theatre Atchison Seussical • The Coterie Theatre Suburb • City Theatre of Independence* Seussical • The Coterie Theatre The Psychic • River City Players Suburb • City Theatre of Independence* A Tribute to the Big Bands • Chestnut Fine Arts Suburb • City Theatre of Independence* Seussical • The Coterie Theatre Sweet Charity • The Barn Players, Inc.* Sweet Charity • The Barn Players, Inc.* Suburb • City Theatre of Independence* A Tribute to the Big Bands • Chestnut Fine Arts A Tribute to the Big Bands • Chestnut Fine Arts Super Happy Fun Comedy Hour • The Roving Imp Theater* Suzanne Farrell Ballet • Lied Center of Kansas Sweet Charity • The Barn Players, Inc.* A Tribute to the Big Bands • Chestnut Fine Arts

14 mon 15 tue 18 fri 19 sat 20 sun The Farnsworth Invention • UMKC Theatre Almost, Maine • University of Central Missouri* All My Sons • Metropolitan Ensemble Theatre All My Sons • Metropolitan Ensemble Theatre All My Sons • Metropolitan Ensemble Theatre Musical Monday • Musical Theater Heritage Seussical • The Coterie Theatre All My Sons • University of Kansas Theatre All My Sons • University of Kansas Theatre All My Sons • University of Kansas Theatre Almost, Maine • University of Central Missouri* Almost, Maine • University of Central Missouri* Anatomy of Gray • JCCC, Department of Theatre Anatomy of Gray • JCCC, Department of Theatre Anatomy of Gray • JCCC, Department of Theatre Avenue Q • The Resident Theatre 16 wed 17 thu Christmas in Song • Quality Hill Playhouse Avenue Q • The Resident Theatre Christmas in Song • Quality Hill Playhouse Almost, Maine • University of Central Missouri* All My Sons • Metropolitan Ensemble Theatre The Diary of Anne Frank • Shawnee Mission South Christmas in Song • Quality Hill Playhouse The Farnsworth Invention • UMKC Theatre The Farnsworth Invention • UMKC Theatre All My Sons • University of Kansas Theatre Fairy Princess DIE-aries • The Mystery Train The Diary of Anne Frank • Shawnee Mission South Go, Dog. Go! • Paul Mesner Puppets*

Go, Dog. Go! • Paul Mesner Puppets* Almost, Maine • University of Central Missouri* The Farnsworth Invention • UMKC Theatre Ethel • Lied Center of Kansas Gone Missing • Rockhurst University* Seussical • The Coterie Theatre Avenue Q • The Resident Theatre Go, Dog. Go! • Paul Mesner Puppets* Fairy Princess DIE-aries • The Mystery Train Mother Goose’s Christmas Crimes • Martin City The Diary of Anne Frank • Shawnee Mission South Gone Missing • Rockhurst University* The Farnsworth Invention • UMKC Theatre Melodrama The Farnsworth Invention • UMKC Theatre Nuncrackers • Theatre Atchison Go, Dog. Go! • Paul Mesner Puppets* Nuncrackers • Theatre Atchison Go, Dog. Go! • Paul Mesner Puppets* Seussical • The Coterie Theatre Gone Missing • Rockhurst University* Seussical • The Coterie Theatre Gone Missing • Rockhurst University* Sweet Charity • The Barn Players, Inc.* Mother Goose’s Christmas Crimes • Martin City Sweet Charity • The Barn Players, Inc.* Seussical • The Coterie Theatre A Tribute to the Big Bands • Chestnut Fine Arts Melodrama A Tribute to the Big Bands • Chestnut Fine Arts Nuncrackers • Theatre Atchison A Tribute to the Big Bands • Chestnut Fine Arts You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown • ACT One* Seussical • The Coterie Theatre You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown • ACT One* Sweet Charity • The Barn Players, Inc.* A Tribute to the Big Bands • Chestnut Fine Arts You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown • ACT One* 14 mon 15 tue 18 fri 19 sat 20 sun The Farnsworth Invention • UMKC Theatre Almost, Maine • University of Central Missouri* All My Sons • Metropolitan Ensemble Theatre All My Sons • Metropolitan Ensemble Theatre All My Sons • Metropolitan Ensemble Theatre Musical Monday • Musical Theater Heritage Seussical • The Coterie Theatre All My Sons • University of Kansas Theatre All My Sons • University of Kansas Theatre All My Sons • University of Kansas Theatre Almost, Maine • University of Central Missouri* Almost, Maine • University of Central Missouri* Anatomy of Gray • JCCC, Department of Theatre Anatomy of Gray • JCCC, Department of Theatre Anatomy of Gray • JCCC, Department of Theatre Avenue Q • The Resident Theatre 16 wed 17 thu Christmas in Song • Quality Hill Playhouse Avenue Q • The Resident Theatre Christmas in Song • Quality Hill Playhouse Almost, Maine • University of Central Missouri* All My Sons • Metropolitan Ensemble Theatre The Diary of Anne Frank • Shawnee Mission South Christmas in Song • Quality Hill Playhouse The Farnsworth Invention • UMKC Theatre The Farnsworth Invention • UMKC Theatre All My Sons • University of Kansas Theatre Fairy Princess DIE-aries • The Mystery Train The Diary of Anne Frank • Shawnee Mission South Go, Dog. Go! • Paul Mesner Puppets*

Go, Dog. Go! • Paul Mesner Puppets* Almost, Maine • University of Central Missouri* The Farnsworth Invention • UMKC Theatre Ethel • Lied Center of Kansas Gone Missing • Rockhurst University* Seussical • The Coterie Theatre Avenue Q • The Resident Theatre Go, Dog. Go! • Paul Mesner Puppets* Fairy Princess DIE-aries • The Mystery Train Mother Goose’s Christmas Crimes • Martin City The Diary of Anne Frank • Shawnee Mission South Gone Missing • Rockhurst University* The Farnsworth Invention • UMKC Theatre Melodrama The Farnsworth Invention • UMKC Theatre Nuncrackers • Theatre Atchison Go, Dog. Go! • Paul Mesner Puppets* Nuncrackers • Theatre Atchison Go, Dog. Go! • Paul Mesner Puppets* Seussical • The Coterie Theatre Gone Missing • Rockhurst University* Seussical • The Coterie Theatre Gone Missing • Rockhurst University* Sweet Charity • The Barn Players, Inc.* Mother Goose’s Christmas Crimes • Martin City Sweet Charity • The Barn Players, Inc.* Seussical • The Coterie Theatre A Tribute to the Big Bands • Chestnut Fine Arts Melodrama A Tribute to the Big Bands • Chestnut Fine Arts Nuncrackers • Theatre Atchison A Tribute to the Big Bands • Chestnut Fine Arts You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown • ACT One* Seussical • The Coterie Theatre You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown • ACT One* Sweet Charity • The Barn Players, Inc.* A Tribute to the Big Bands • Chestnut Fine Arts You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown • ACT One* 21 mon 22 tue 25 fri 26 sat 27 sun Christmas in Song • Quality Hill Playhouse Seussical • The Coterie Theatre All My Sons • Metropolitan Ensemble Theatre All My Sons • Metropolitan Ensemble Theatre All My Sons • Metropolitan Ensemble Theatre Seussical • The Coterie Theatre Christmas in Song • Quality Hill Playhouse Christmas in Song • Quality Hill Playhouse Christmas in Song • Quality Hill Playhouse Fairy Princess DIE-aries • The Mystery Train Fairy Princess DIE-aries • The Mystery Train Go, Dog. Go! • Paul Mesner Puppets* Go, Dog. Go! • Paul Mesner Puppets* Go, Dog. Go! • Paul Mesner Puppets* Seussical • The Coterie Theatre 23 wed 24 thu Little Red Riding Bug • Puppetry Arts Institute Little Red Riding Bug • Puppetry Arts Institute Christmas in Song • Quality Hill Playhouse All My Sons • Metropolitan Ensemble Theatre Mother Goose’s Christmas Crimes • Martin City Mother Goose’s Christmas Crimes • Martin City Go, Dog. Go! • Paul Mesner Puppets* Melodrama Melodrama Seussical • The Coterie Theatre Seussical • The Coterie Theatre

28 mon 29 tue 2 fri 3 sat 4 sun Christmas in Song • Quality Hill Playhouse Seussical • The Coterie Theatre All My Sons • Metropolitan Ensemble Theatre All My Sons • Metropolitan Ensemble Theatre All My Sons • Metropolitan Ensemble Theatre Christmas in Song • Quality Hill Playhouse Beau Jest • The Resident Theatre Beau Jest • The Resident Theatre Eurydice • Emporia State University Theatre Christmas in Song • Quality Hill Playhouse Christmas in Song • Quality Hill Playhouse 30 wed 1 thu Every Christmas Story Ever Told (and Then Some!) • Eurydice • Emporia State University Theatre Every Christmas Story Ever Told (and Then Some!) • Christmas in Song • Quality Hill Playhouse All My Sons • Metropolitan Ensemble Theatre Olathe Community Theatre Every Christmas Story Ever Told (and Then Some!) • Olathe Community Theatre Eurydice • Emporia State University Theatre Christmas in Song • Quality Hill Playhouse Fairy Princess DIE-aries • The Mystery Train Olathe Community Theatre The Hallelujah Girls • Corbin Theatre Company Seussical • The Coterie Theatre Eurydice • Emporia State University Theatre The Hallelujah Girls • Corbin Theatre Company Fairy Princess DIE-aries • The Mystery Train Mother Goose’s Christmas Crimes • Martin City Fairy Princess DIE-aries • The Mystery Train Mother Goose’s Christmas Crimes • Martin City The Hallelujah Girls • Corbin Theatre Company Melodrama The Hallelujah Girls • Corbin Theatre Company Melodrama Mother Goose’s Christmas Crimes • Martin City Noah’s Art • University of Kansas Theatre AUDITIONS Scrooge: the Musical • Blue Springs City Theatre* OCT 9-NOV 10-The Last Winter (Film) Noah’s Art • University of Kansas Theatre Melodrama The Nutcracker • Kansas City Ballet Seussical • The Coterie Theatre NOV 5-6 • Leawood Stage Company Scrooge: the Musical • Blue Springs City Theatre* Noah’s Art • University of Kansas Theatre Scrooge: the Musical • Blue Springs City Theatre* A Spectacular Christmas, in Concert • Musical NOV 20 • Music Theatre for Young People Seussical • The Coterie Theatre The Nutcracker • Kansas City Ballet Seussical • The Coterie Theatre Theater Heritage A Spectacular Christmas, in Concert • Musical Scrooge: the Musical • Blue Springs City Theatre* A Spectacular Christmas, in Concert • Musical Studio Theatre One-Acts • University of Central Theater Heritage Seussical • The Coterie Theatre Theater Heritage Missouri* Studio Theatre One-Acts • University of Central A Spectacular Christmas, in Concert • Musical A Tribute to the Big Bands • Chestnut Fine Arts A Tribute to the Big Bands • Chestnut Fine Arts Missouri* Theater Heritage A Tribute to the Big Bands • Chestnut Fine Arts Studio Theatre One-Acts • Univ. of Central Missouri* Treasures from Toyland • Puppetry Arts Institute A Tribute to the Big Bands • Chestnut Fine Arts *Affiliate Theatres offer discount tickets to subscribers of KC Stage. Display your membership card at the box office or mention it when ordering tickets over the phone. For a list of discounts and other offers, visit www.kcstage.com/affiliates. Don’t forget to rate the show you see online!  Performances continued from page 7

. that surprised and delighted audiences. For

mccain more than three decades the Rep’s enchant- ing holiday show has captured the true betty meaning of Christmas for many Kansas City families, who year after year are inspired by its strong family values and message of hope and redemption. Appropriate for all ages. Kansas City Repertory Theatre, Spen- cer Theatre in the UMKC Performing Arts Center, (816) 235-2700, www.KCRep.org The History of Kisses: Oct 21-Nov 27: 8 pm Fri-Sat; 2 pm Sat-Sun; 7 pm Sun, Tue-Thr; 3 pm Sat A writer sequesters himself in an ocean- front motel to finish a collection of seaside stories, and soon finds that he has been drawn into the romantic and sexual goings-on around him. The multi-talented Cale is best known for his solo works Palo- mino and the Obie Award-winning Lillian, which have been performed in New York and . Contains strong language The cast of Big River, The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, performing Nov 4-13 at the and adult situations. Kansas City Reper- Crossroads Theatre Company. tory Theatre (Scholars’ Forum and Signed performance ), Copaken Stage at 1 H its fourth turn on the Series. The famed Jewell Theatre* and R Block Way (13th & Walnut), (816) Eroica Trio (violinist, cellist, and pianist) A Man For All Seasons by Robert Bolt: 235-2700, www.KCRep.org will join the orchestra. Of its 2003 Series Nov 10-12: 7 pm Thr-Sat; 2 pm Sat performance, reviewer Paul Horsley wrote Directed by Kim B. Harris. $8 for adults, Kauffman Center that the orchestra “produces an elegant $5 for students and seniors with an ID. An Evening of Classic Lily Tomlin: sonic sheen that is known only to the best Peters Theater, Brown Hall, 500 College Nov 20: 7 pm Sun European orchestras. There is a quiet con- Hill, (816) 415-7590, theatre@william. Kauffman Center presents Lily Tomlin. fidence in these players, whose training jewell.edu, She will be the first performer featured and approach to style is steeped in cen- as part of the Kauffman Center’s Ameri- turies of history and tradition.” Kauffman can Legends Series. Lily Tomlin – actress, Center for the Performing Arts: Helzberg Kansas City Ballet The Nutcracker: Dec 3-24: 1 pm Sun; comedienne, writer - has captivated audi- Hall, 1601 Broadway St, (816) 415-5923, ences with her trademark sharp humor www.hjseries.org 2 pm, 7:30 pm Sat Kansas City Ballet’s presents The Nutcracker since she began a career as a stand-up with the music of Tchaikovsky performed by comedian in the late 1960’s. Her excep- Johnson County Community College the Kansas City Symphony. Featuring elab- tional career spans TV, comedy, Broadway, Anatomy of Gray by James Leonard, orate scenery, spirited choreography and and movies. Tickets at website or (816) Jr.: Nov 11-20: 7:30 pm Fri-Sat; 2 pm vibrant costumes, Clara’s adventure is capti- 994-7222. Kauffman Center for the Per- Sat-Sun vating. Kansas City Ballet’s The Nutcracker, forming Arts, 1601 Broadway St, (816) When June’s father dies, she prays for a sponsored by Bank of America, is the largest 994-7229, www.kauffmancenter.org healer to come to the small town of Gray, production in an eight-state region and lasts Mavis Staples: Dec 8: 7:30 pm Thr so that no one will ever suffer again; the approximately two hours. More than 200 Rock and Roll Hall of Famer Mavis Staples next thing she knows, there’s a tornado, Kansas City Ballet School students perform will perform in Helzberg Hall. Legendary and a man in a balloon blows into town alongside the 25 professional Company vocalist Mavis Staples has had a historic claiming to be a doctor. At first, the new dancers. $29-$119. Kauffman Center for career beginning more than 60 years ago doctor cures anything and everything, but the Performing Arts, 1601 Broadway, (816) when she started singing with the Staple soon the town’s preacher takes ill with a 931-2232, www.kcballet.org Singers. Staples is a Grammy Lifetime mysterious plague. And the plague begins Achievement Award winner. VH1 named to spread. Set in Indiana during the late her one of the 100 Greatest Women of 1800’s, this poignant story deals with Kansas City Repertory Theatre A Christmas Carol: Nov 19-Dec 26: Rock and Roll, and Rolling Stone listed death, loss, love, and healing. Directed her as one of the 100 Greatest Singers of by Beate Pettigrew. All academic perfor- 2 pm, 8 pm Fri-Sat; 7 pm Sun, Wed; 1 pm, 5 pm Sun All Time. Tickets at website or (816) 994- mances are free; no reservations. Bodker 7222. Kauffman Center for the Performing Black Box Theatre, Carlsen Center, 12345 While staying true to the original Rep show we all love, the set was rebuilt to include Arts, 1601 Broadway St, (816) 994-7229, College Blvd, (913) 469-8500, www.jccc. www.kauffmancenter.org edu/theatredept a revolving stage and other theatre magic

“A modern democracy is a tyranny whose borders are undefined; one discovers how far 10 KCSTAGE one can go only by traveling in a straight line until one is stopped.” ~ Norman Mailer  Performances

Lied Center of Kansas in Washington, D.C. Farrell’s dancers are shambles, and her helpful friends are only An Evening with David Sedaris: known for their ability to engage audiences helping make things more complicated. This Nov 9: 7:30 pm Wed by connecting inspiring choreography to bright, witty, un-romantic comedy captures As one of America’s foremost humor writ- musical rhythms, allowing it to course the uncertain steps of a circle of friends ers and recurring contributors to PRI’s This through them with graceful harmony. backing their way into middle age. Directed American Life, David Sedaris has become $25/$28 adult; $10 student/youth. Lied by Herman Johansen. Free. The Fishtank somewhat of a superstar in the literary Center of Kansas, 1600 Stewart Dr, (785) Performance Studio, 1715 Wyandotte, world. It is easy to see why he has been 864-2787, lied.ku.edu (816) 308-7974, www.martintanner.com A nominated for three Grammy Awards for best spoken word and best comedy album Lyric Opera of Kansas City Metropolitan Ensemble Theatre for recorded public presentations of his Così Fan Tutte by W.A. Mozart: Nov 5- All My Sons by Arthur Miller: Nov 10- novels. With quirky and astute insights 13: 7:30 pm Fri-Sat, Wed; 2 pm Sun Dec 4: 7:30 pm Thr-Sat; 2 pm Sun into the human condition, Sedaris has an Mozart’s witty comedy about a pair of The quintessential American family drama unmatched ability to capture the simulta- sisters whose suitors give them 24 hours by Arthur Miller, All My Sons, based on a neous horror and humor in each passing to prove their undying affection has been true event is the post WWII story about moment. $35/$40 adult; $15 student/ entertaining audiences since its premiere. the Kellers, a seemingly “All American” youth. Lied Center of Kansas, 1600 - With the aid of a quirky maid and unfor- family. Layer after layer of secrets cover art Dr, (785) 864-2787, lied.ku.edu A gettable melodies, the women’s fiancées a terrible truth and the truth is finally AnDa Union: Nov 5: 7:30 pm Sat pull off a hysterical scheme of disguise revealed. Directed by Karen Paisley. $30 Part Mongolian history lesson, part con- and trickery that tests the dedication of Fri-Sat, $25 Thur-Sun, $15 Student. Met- cert hall recital, AnDa Union’s powerful their brides-to-be. Stage director Kristine ropolitan Ensemble Theatre, 3604 Main performances are a masterful reimagin- McIntyre will return to the Lyric Opera to St, (816) 569-3226, www.metkc.org A ing of nearly forgotten styles of traditional direct a cast of emerging opera stars in Mongol music. Harkening back to the an updated version of this comedy. Sea- son tickets: $135-$450; Individual tickets: Musical Theater Heritage days of Genghis Khan, this rich heritage A Spectacular Christmas, in Concert $25-$150. Kauffman Center for the Per- of ancient music is intermingled with the by George Harter, Tom Lancaster, and forming Arts, 1601 Broadway St, (816) modern influences of the disparate tribes Sarah Crawford: Dec 1-18: 8 pm Fri- 471-7344, www.kcopera.org of both Inner and Outer Mongolia. The Sat; 2 pm Sat-Sun; 7 pm Thr musicians expertly play a wide variety of Musical Theater Heritage’s holiday show traditional lutes, flutes, and mouth harps, Martin City Melodrama features a sackful of classic Christmas- singing in traditional and mystical vocal Mother Goose’s Christmas Crimes by time songs from movies and musicals. It forms. $21 adult; $5 student/youth. Lied Jeff Behan, Jeanne Beechwood, and is funny, heartfelt, and sentimental, and Center of Kansas, 1600 Stewart Dr, (785) Dan Hall: Nov 19-Jan 1: 3:30 pm features many of KC’s best-loved local 864-2787, lied.ku.edu Fri-Sun; 7:30 pm Fri-Sat performers. The performances will move Ethel: Nov 19: 7:30 pm Sat Set to the rousing melodies of some of the you, and it’s perfect for the family at For its invigorating artistry and inventive best known classical - and not so classical Christmastime! Directed by Sarah Craw- programming, Ethel is recognized as - composers, “Mother Goose’s Christmas ford. $12.75 - $29. Crown Center Off America’s foremost postclassical string Crimes” stars such characters as Little Bo Center Theatre, 2450 Grand Blvd, (816) quartet. Using amplification and impro- Peep, Simple Simon, and the Old Woman 842-9999, www.mthkc.com visation in its performances, the ensemble in the Shoe. Unravel for yourself the crime of the century in this outrageous, offbeat Musical Monday: Nov 14: boldly explores new synergies between 7:30 pm Mon tradition and technology. Performing a operetta. “Holiday Hi-Jinx!” features audi- ence favorite, the Water Glass Symphony, An impromptu evening of musical theater program celebrating the concepts of pres- hosted by Tim Scott, featuring KC’s finest and back by popular demand Charlie the ence and continuity, Ethel will present its actors and singers. You never know who own arrangement of Philip Glass’ score Wonder dog along with other seasonal silli- ness to get you in the holiday spirit. Directed will show up, and you never know what from The Hours, as well as works by Terry songs will be sung, but it’s a guaranteed Riley, Huang Ruo, David Lang and Julia by Jeanne Beechwood. Featuring Kattie Post, Andrea Huckaba, Dianne Brown, Mar- great time. Reservations required: (816) Wolfe. Featuring Cornelius Dufallo, Mary 221-6987. $17. Crown Center Off Center Rowell, Ralph Farris, and Dorothy Lawson. cus Mull, Mark Maasen, and Clint Griffey. $10.99-$13.99. Martin City Melodrama Theatre, 2450 Grand Blvd, (816) 842- $21 adult; $5 student/youth. Lied Center 9999, www.mthkc.com A of Kansas, 1600 Stewart Dr, (785) 864- & Vaudeville Company, 9601 Metcalf Ave, 2787, lied.ku.edu (913) 642-7576, martincitymelodrama.org The Mystery Train Suzanne Farrell Ballet: Nov 12: Fairy Princess DIE-aries by Wendy 7:30 pm Sat Martin Tanner Productions This by Melissa James Gibson: Thompson: Nov 18-Jan 7: 6:30 pm Suzanne Farrell, renowned muse of leg- Thr-Sat endary 20th-century ballet choreographer Nov 7: 7:30 pm Mon Jane is not okay. She’s a promising poet Selecting the Fairy Princess for Kline’s George Balanchine, works to preserve the Department Store in 1957 is all sweet- legacy of his illustrious works through her without a muse, a single mother without lessons to pass along. Her dating life’s a company located at the Kennedy Center Continued on page 12 www.kcstage.com NOVEMBER 2011 11  Performances continued from page 11 ness and light ... until someone realizes Paul Mesner Puppets* it’s a job to DIE for! Directed by Wendy Go, Dog. Go! by P.D. Eastman: Nov levenson Thompson. $54-$64. The Golden Ox, 2-27: 2 pm Fri-Sun; 11 am Fri-Sat, 1600 Genessee, (816) 813-9654, A Wed; 10 am, 12 pm Wed-Fri larry Big dogs, little dogs, yellow dogs, blue New Theatre Restaurant dogs. Dogs at work, dogs at play, dogs in Move Over Mrs. Markham by Ray hats, dogs in cars! It’s an all out dog party Cooney and John Chapman: Aug in this colorful adaptation of P.D. Eastman’s 31-Nov 6: 12 pm Sat, Wed; 6 pm beloved book. Come and unleash your Tue-Sun inner dog. Directed by Paul Mesner. $7 In this chaotic comedy, it’s the trials, tribu- for children; $9 for adults. PMP Studio, lations and romantic misadventures of two 1006 E Linwood Blvd, (816) 235-6222, book publishers, their wives, an interior www.paulmesnerpuppets.org designer, a maid, a children’s book author, a management consultant, and a tele- Puppetry Arts Institute phone operator, as they all converge on Parasol Puppets the same elegant apartment on the same Little Red Riding Bug: Nov 25-26: warm summer evening. Directed by Den- 2 pm, 11 am Fri-Sat nis D. Hennessy. Featuring Debra Bluford, Peter Allan (Trenton, MO) presents the Dodie Brown, Jan Chapman, Todd Gear- classic tale “Little Red Riding Hood” with hart, Jim Korinke, Mandy Morris, Stuart a fun twist! Little Red Riding Bug is on her LaTeesha McDonald Jackson sings some Rider, Loretta Swit, and Dean Vivian. Call way with basket of goodies to visit her favorite holiday music in Christmas in the box office at 913-649-7469 for more Granny, who flew a little too close to a Song, running at Quality Hill Playhouse information. New Theatre Restaurant, bug light for comfort. But whom should Nov 18-Dec 24. 9229 Foster St, www.newtheatre.com A Little Red meet through the grass but the Big, Bad Frog! Show times: 11 am & 2 pm. eton finally discover his purpose in life! $5 per person regardless of age. Puppetry Directed by Mark Swezey. The Lewis and newEar Shirley White Theatre, 5801 W 115 St, Strange Nonsense by Jeremy Podgursky, Arts Institute, 11025 E Winner Rd, (816) (913) 327-8054, www.jcckc.org A Jay Batzner, Henri Lazarof, Kamran Ince, 833-9777, www.hazelle.org Olga Neuwirth: Nov 5: 8 pm Sat Treasures from Toyland: Dec 3-17: Beau Jest by James Sherman: Dec 3-11: New Music equals nonsense? Not at all! 2 pm, 11 am Sat 7:30 pm Sat; 2 pm Sun newEar invites you to experience our take Visit the workshop of wishes as Holiday Lewis and Shirley White Theatre, 5801 W on “nonsense” - most decidedly more sense puppets come alive in song. Performed by 115 St, (913) 327-8054, www.jcckc.org than non ... are Jeremy Podgursky’s piano Puppeteer Kraig Kensinger (Independence, trio “Nonsense or Sorcery” and Kamram MO). $5 per person regardless of age. Ince’s driving, Turkish-inspired “Strange River City Community Players Puppetry Arts Institute, 11025 E Winner Rd, Dracula by Steven Dietz: Oct 28- Stone”. Olga Neuwirth’s colorful and (816) 833-9777, www.hazelle.org Nov 12: 8 pm Fri-Sat; 2 pm Sun quirky “5 Daily Miniatures”. Works by Jay One of the great mystery thrillers. Lucy Batzner and Henri Lazarof round out the Seward, whose father is the doctor in program. $20 ($15 student With ID). All Quality Hill Playhouse charge of an English sanitarium, has been Souls Unitarian Universalist Church, 4501 Christmas in Song: Nov 18-Dec 24: attacked by some mysterious illness. Dr. Walnut, (816) 235-6222, www.newear.org 1 pm Thr; 8 pm Wed-Mon; 3 pm Sun Our annual musical cabaret revue in Van Helsing believes that the girl is the celebration of the season. Quality Hill victim of a vampire, a sort of ghost that Olathe Community Theatre Playhouse, 303 W 10th St, (816) 421- goes about at night sucking blood from Every Christmas Story Ever Told (and 1700, www.QualityHillPlayhouse.com its victims. The vampire is at last found to Then Some!) by Michael Carleton, be a certain Count Dracula, whose ghost James Fitzgerald, and John K Alvarez: is at last laid to rest in a striking and novel Dec 2-18: 8 pm Fri-Sat; 2 pm Sun The Resident Theatre manner. The play is intended for all who In the style of The Complete Works of Avenue Q by , Robert , and love thrills in the theater. Directed by Nino William Shakespear (Abridged), this hilari- Jeff Whitty: Nov 5-20: 7:30 pm Sat, Casini. Adults $10; 12 & under $5; 62+ ous confection lampoons all our favorite Thr; 2 pm Sun & groups 10+ $8 . Leavenworth Perform- holiday shows - from It’s a Wonderful Life Winner of the Tony “triple crown” for Best ing Arts Center, 500 Delaware St, (913) to The Grinch Who Stole Christmas. As Musical, Best Score, and Best Book, Ave- 682-7557, www.rccplv.com the play itself says, it’s “Xmas Xtreme”. nue Q is part flesh, part felt, and packed Directed by Shari Johnson. Adults $15; with heart. Avenue Q is a laugh-out-loud seniors/students $12; children <12 $10. musical that tells the timeless story of a River City Players The Psychic by Sam Bobrick: Olathe Community Theater Assn, 500 E recent college grad named Princeton who Nov 4-12: 7:45 pm Fri-Sat Loula St, (913) 782-2990, www.olathe moves into a shabby New York apartment The story of the play centers around Adam theatre.org all the way out on Avenue Q. There, he meets many colorful types who help Princ- Webster, a down-on-his- luck writer. Adam

12 KCSTAGE “If you don’t change your beliefs, your life will be like this forever. Is that good news?” ~ W. Somerset Maugham  Performances

all people, even those I’ve never met. I bryson

want to go on living even after my death.”

jani Directed by Lynette Williams. $7. Shawnee Mission South Auditorium, 5800 W 107th St, (913) 993-7524, www.smstheatre.com

Theatre Atchison Nuncrackers: The Nunsense Christmas Musical by Dan Goggin: Nov 11-20: 8 pm Fri-Sat; 2 pm Sun $10 adults; $6 students. Theatre Atchison, 401 Santa Fe St, (913) 367-7469, www. theatreatchison.org

UMKC Theatre The Farnsworth Invention by Aaron Sor- kin: Nov 10-20: 7:30 pm Wed-Mon; 2 pm Sun The Farnsworth Invention is a crackling story about the race between a ruthless media mogul on the east coast and a self- taught Idaho farm boy on the west coast to get the television invented. This is the undergraduate fall production. The play’s author, , is also the creator of the hit TV series The West Wing! Directed by Ron Schaeffer. Adults $15, senior/ student: $10, groups of 10+: $8 each. left to right: Samantha Agron, Brent Nanney, and Kristi Mitchell in The Resident The- Studio 116, Olson PAC, 4949 Cherry St, atre’s Avenue Q, performing Nov 5-20. (816) 235-6222, www.umkctheatre.org A has put a sign in his apartment window, The Roving Imp Theater* “Psychic Readings $ 25” in despera- Super Happy Fun Comedy Hour: University of Central Missouri* tion to make money to pay the . The Almost, Maine by John Cariani: Sep 17-Nov 12: 7 pm Fri-Sat Nov 15-19: 7:30 pm Tue-Sat characters it draws in lead into a tangled Improv comedy! You get three sets of murder mystery of sorts in this hilarious On a cold, clear, moonless night in the mid- improv comedy, ranging from short games dle of winter, all is not quite what it seems original comedy. Directed by Sharon to completely made up one-act plays, Propst. Featuring Jim Thacker, Sheila Lee, in the remote, mythical town of Almost, starring professional improv actors that Maine. As the northern lights hover in the Tom Corporon, Charles Pinzon, Elizabeth constantly work to the best show you’ll see Brumbelow, and Sharon Propst. $18 for star-filled sky above, Almost’s residents find anywhere. Plus - you get a literal guaran- themselves falling in and out of love in unex- Dinner & Show; $8 for show only. United tee of fun - if you don’t have a good time, Methodist Church, 1211 S 13 Hwy, (816) pected and often hilarious ways. Knees are get your money back! $6.50/$7.50. The bruised. Hearts are broken. But the bruises 259-2819, www.rcplayers.org A Roving Imp Theater, 115 Oak St, (913) heal, and the hearts mend - almost - in this 441-2309, www.rovingimp.com delightful midwinter night’s dream. Directed Rockhurst University* by Bill Christie. $12 general, $10 faculty Gone Missing by The Civilians, Cosson, Shawnee Mission South and seniors, $7 students. Highlander The- and Friedman: Nov 17-20: 8 pm Thr- The Diary of Anne Frank by Wendy atre, University of Central Missouri, (660) Fri; 2 pm Sat-Sun Kesselman: Nov 17-19: 7 pm Thr-Sat; 543-8811, www.ucmo.edu/theatre What have you lost? How did you deal 10 am Fri Studio Theatre One-Acts: with that loss? A documentary musical An impassioned drama about the lives of Dec 1-3: 7:30 pm Thr-Sat that reports how people answer those eight people hiding from the Nazis in a Share with our student directors and questions. Your keys? Your friend? Your storage attic, The Diary of Anne Frank cap- technical directors as they present an mind? Directed by Susan Proctor and Tom tures the claustrophobic realities of their evening of one-acts. These productions Kodera. $8-$10. Rockhurst University daily existence - their fear, their hope, their are always varied, enjoyable and $1 at Mabee Theater, 1100 Rockhurst Rd, (816) laughter, their grief. Through these two the door. This evening’s set of one-acts 501-4040, www.rockhurst.edu/academic/ dark years, Anne’s voice shines through: include: “Coax” by Neil LaBute, directed cfa/theatre/index.asp A “When I write I shake off all my cares. by Andy Brown; “English Made Simple” But I want to achieve more than that. I by David Ives, directed by Joe Burkard; want to be useful and bring enjoyment to “Extensions” by , directed www.kcstage.com NOVEMBER 2011 13  From Sunlight to Laserlight continued from page 3 ney which allowed brighter light, and was virtually tric revolution blew through the burgeoning lighting smokeless. One could control the brightness somewhat industry. The Savoy Theatre in London was the first to through an adjustable wick. The lamp was as bright as introduce electric lighting on stage. 1,158 incandescent about a dozen wax candles. lamps were used. 824 of those were on the stage, con- trolled by six dimmers. The first theatre in the U.S. to be Gas Lighting lit with electricity was the California in San Francisco. A huge leap forward for theatre was gas lighting. The Electric light had no smell, provided steady light, Lyceum Theatre in London was the first theatre to intro- and was far safer than flame. This new energy source duce gas lighting in 1803. In 1816 the Chestnut Street spread through theatres throughout the world. Soon, Theater in installed gas throughout the lighting design became about adding more light, more theatre. The owners touted its superior safety, brilliance, lamps, more power, and more spectacle. and neatness. Unfortunately, this same theatre was one Most theatres simply converted their gas lighting of the first of hundreds to burn down to the ground. into electricity leaving the same lighting positions in While gas lighting burned brighter and whiter than place. For accent carbon arc lamps were used despite its ancestors, it also burned with a bare flame next to being big, noisy, and flickering. cloth, canvas, and wood becoming an inherent fire haz- The use of electricity caused the art of lighting design to ard as so many found out first hand. explode with new technology and new design theory. The The brightness could be could be controlled by light given by early electric lighting was harsh. In rebellion regulating the gas at the “gas table”. This allowed for to this harsh glare given by electric light two designers, control of separate parts of the stage creating the first Continued on page 17 “switchboard.” Gas also allowed for more consistency in the lighting. Beyond the massive fire hazard, gas lighting had other drawbacks. The smell given off by the gas was atrocious, and heat became a major problem. Also, gas- light could not provide an actual beam of light any better than candles or oil lamps. It wasn’t until 1837 did a true controllable beam of light grace the stage.

Limelight Limelight was the first lighting invention that had a controllable beam. For the first time, an actor or moment could be singled out through the use of light. Limelight was created by using a block of quicklime heated by a flame of oxygen and hydrogen. The flame was used to burn the gas which raised a small cylinder to white heat. This provided an intense point source that could be installed in a hand operated spotlight. The light emit- ted was very white and harsh. It could be colored by painted glass slides which could create effects such as sunrises, sunsets, and moonlight.

Electricity Gas and limelight were used in conjunction creating new effects for about 50 years. Then, in 1881 the elec-

14 KCSTAGE “The worlds a stage and most of us are desperately unrehearsed.” ~ Sean O’Casey  Spotlight on Annie Cherry and Damian Blake Film Clips continued from page 5 by Larry Levenson on the streets of Parkville. He got his began selling out all the shows they Au Pair, Kansas, which was written, directed and produced by KU graduate JT O’Neal, first professional gig at a Hollywood performed. received the Best Low Budget Feature Film themed party held at the Starlight Laura and Damian’s marriage award at the Cannes Independent Film Theater. There was a Marilyn Mon- came to a natural ending. And after Festival, won awards at other U.S. festivals, and may soon be on its way to German roe, a Frankenstein, several others, a while, Annie and Damian became and French TV. The Kansas-lensed fea- and Damian as Charlie Chaplin. a couple, both as performers and in ture film, which premiered at the 2011 At around this time, The Kansas their life. They married in March AMC Theatres Kansas City FilmFest, won the festival’s Independent Best Heartland City Society of Burlesque was put- of 2011. Narrative Feature. Find out more at http:// ting together a show called Raising kea.nu/aupairks. the Dead which featured dead celeb- The performers The NBC television show America’s Got rities and they needed performers. Besides the regular performances Talent was in St. Louis casting for the new season. This is the first time they have Laura Blake, now using the stage with the Kansas City Society of come to Missouri for talent. For infor- name Hella Fitzgerald, had been Burlesque, Annie and Damian also mation, contact Stuart Inman at stuart. asked to do the show and had a perform as solos, as a duo, and with [email protected]. great idea. Why don’t they use her other groups. They find their per- A production manager was being sought in the St. Louis area for a one-day, on- husband, Damian, who was a Chap- formances often are more related to location interview and b-roll shoot. lin impersonator? straight theater than burlesque. A new NASCAR commercial was shot at Laura and Damian were asked Even their burlesque per- Kansas Speedway using many KC actors. to become full time members of the formances are unique. Damian An international production company that Kansas City Society of Burlesque mentions, “It’s like a variety show, specializes in Direct Response shows was after that show. Laura Blake says, we have music and comedy and seeking a full-time assistant director in the Springfield area. “I remember that we were shocked girls.” that they wanted us to join so soon Kansas City is home to a strong Auditions were held in KC for the short movie “A Senior Moment”. The director after the show ... it was a huge com- local burlesque scene, with other was looking for actors over 75-years old. pliment. I was involved for about a noted troupes being The Burlesque Contact Michelle at madbratcher@yahoo. com for information. year, so October of 2009 was when Downtown Underground and The I left the troupe.” Evolution of Burlesque. Stephen Kennedy, KennedyStock in St. Louis, is looking for men and women of A friend of the couple noted how any age and ethnicity to photograph for Annie and Damian form a team their burlesque performances were stock photography. Shooting will be in KC. Damian was aware of Annie. He different from the other burlesque Send a headshot to Kennedy at casting. [email protected]. Payment is made had seen her perform as part of the troupes in town. Annie told her, at completion of shoot. Hurley Burley shows and also at “You have to think of it as, like, rock Negative One, Inc. was casting for actors Ron Megee’s loft, where perform- bands. All rock bands do not do the and actresses for a television commercial ers regularly got together to show same thing.” involving a local car dealership in KC. Their contact information for this and other their stuff. To give an example, you can look castings is www.neg-1.com. “Ron Megee has been a huge at Bali H’ai Jinks, a show Annie and A magazine is shooting a print ad in mentor to me. He’s one of the first Damian did in December of 2010. It Dodge City using KC talent. The photog- people who made me believe I had used a plot of a group of perform- rapher is being brought in from Las Vegas. something to offer,” Annie mentions ers on a cruise. Damian played a Are you a filmmaker in the KC area and with a great deal of affection. Chaplin-like porter. Annie played want to submit news about your production Around 2010 the troupe also the ship’s lounge singer. She sang to KC Stage? E-mail Larry at llevenson@ picked up Veronica Voodoo, Violet the classic Hollywood number kcstage.com before the 10th. Vendetta, and Daisy Bucket. And “Salome”. She also did a strip num- also around this time, the KCSOB ber that began with her in a gorilla Continued on page 16 www.kcstage.com NOVEMBER 2011 15  Spotlight on Annie Cherry and Damian Blake continued from page 5 suit. All in all it ran like a book musical and the show “We’ve been stretching our muscles theatrically,” featured Katie Gilchrist and Caroline Oates of Bee’s Annie admits. Knees Burlesque as well as UMKC College students It started with a performance of a show called The Becca Scott and Grant Fletcher Prewitt. Accidental Waiter. Originally developed by Alex Espy In another recent performance, Annie and Damian and Brian Moses as a staged silent movie, the play has played separated conjoined twins as part of the Vul- been performed at Lydia’s restaurant in the Crossroads garis Family Reunion. The show was a revue of musical District since June of 2011. Damian and Annie stepped numbers built around the hillbilly family members of into the lead roles in August and performed the show, Damian’s stage persona, Arty Vulgaris. This show which is a slapstick comedy about a hobo who steps featured the members of the KCSOB, as well as seventy- into the role of a waiter, through October. And next in something male stripper Diamond Dan. Notable in this line for Annie and Damian is a holiday themed version show was Annie as Damian’s twin brother. She was so of the play called A Very Accidental Holiday. convincing that prior to the show she got within five They have a series of performances planned for the feet of me before I realized she wasn’t Damian. Fishtank Performance Studios, which are planned to They have formed a partnership with the Bee’s Knees perform on a Friday and Saturday night a month Burlesque troupe, which consists of local performers Katie from January through the summer. Called The Trunk Gilchrist and Caroline Oates. Katie, Caroline and Annie Shows, each will feature Damian and Annie as a depres- often work together as a vocal trio, performing such sion era vaudeville couple who’s vehicle’s broken down numbers as “You Gotta Have a Gimmick” from Gypsy. outside. Regular cast members also include Katie Gil- They are gaining a national reputation and also tour christ and Caroline Oates. They will haul in their trunks on a regular basis. Annie says, “We try to maintain a and do a different show each month with a variety of circuit. I think it was a musician who said, ‘don’t go local performers. anyplace you can’t get back to within a year. Otherwise Other projects in the works include a show written by they’ll forget you.’” They perform around the Midwest, Ron Megee, a show through the Nelson-Atkins written but have also travelled as far afield as Coney Island, by Alex Espy in connection with the museum’s World’s Oklahoma, Chicago, and Grand Rapids, Mich. Fair Exhibit, a collaborative show with Victor and Penny They plan on staying and working in Kansas City, (stage names of Jeff Freling and Erin McGrane). Oh, and though. Damian says of the local scene, “I think it’s a thirties screwball comedy called Hobo Erectus, written amazing. And amazing conglomeration of the arts.” by Philip blue owl Hooser and Pete Bakely. Annie adds, “It’s like when you have a project to do at your house, and you open your toolbox and every The end tool you could possibly need is in the box.” With performances selling out on a regular basis and Damian says, “So many talented people. And so opportunities coming daily, Annie and Damian have many of these talents are interdisciplinary. They’re the world opening up in front of them. They are taking trained in music and acting and movies.” those opportunities and running with them as fast as Annie: “People go crazy when we say we’re from they can. R Kansas City. Kansas City has such a reputation.” Damian: ”At Coney Island, we announced we were You can catch Damian and Annie starting this month from Kansas City and people went. Crazy.” in A Very Accidental Holiday opening November 27 at Lidia’s Restaurant in the Crossroads district. Done in The Future conjunction with The Living Room, it runs Saturdays Their next six months are already planned. Damian notes and Sundays and ends with a special Monday show on the irony of their situation. “We made our reputation December 12. Check Annie and Damian’s web site, www. on big, bawdy burlesque shows and all of the sudden anniecherry-artemusvulgaris.com for more information on we have six months booked with proper theater.” this and future shows.

“The only thing that really saddens me over my demise is that I shall not be here to read the 16 KCSTAGE nonsense that will be written about me and my works and my motives.” ~ Noel Coward  From Sunlight to Laserlight  Performances Auditions continued from page 14 continued from page 13 www.kcstage.com/auditions

Gordon Craig and Adolph Appia, by Sayali Indulkar. $1. Nickerson Hall, BlackBox Theatre, University of Central A Academic E Equity began to envision a more natural Missouri, (660) 543-8811, www.ucmo. C Community P Professional and three dimensional lighting style. edu/theatre A In the US, David Belasco was the P The Last Winter (Film) first director of the 20th century to University of Kansas Theatre The Last Winter by Corey Womack All My Sons by Arthur Miller: Nov 12-20: and Teresa Sutherland: Oct 9-Nov 10: truly dedicate great attention to 7:30 pm Thr-Sat; 2:30 pm Sun 12 am Sun-Sat lighting by planning it in advance. This tremendously powerful drama by one After witnessing her husband’s death, a of America’s greatest playwrights will bring His lighting engineer Louis Hart- woman does what she can to survive the a new perspective to the stage in a unique things that lurk unseen on the Kansas fron- mann was responsible for the production directed by Chinese guest artist tier. Directed by Teresa Sutherland. Please Lei Guo-Hua. Employing the techniques development of the first incandes- send a resume and headshot to lastwin- popularized by Bertolt Brecht to strip cent spotlights. He also introduced [email protected]. Callbacks will the story of its familiar, obvious quality, be conducted through Skype or e-mailed indirect overhead lighting. renowned director Lei Guo-Hua will use QuickTime file of audition. This movie is set multi-media to create a new view of the Since this time, both stage light- in the 1860s. We are looking for the follow- American Dream and how it is measured ing technology and design have ing: woman: late twenties, early thirties. Long against the idea there is nothing greater hair preferred; her husband: late twenties, exploded into different instruments than family. Directed by Lei Guo-Hua. early thirties; Marshall: late forties to early $18 public, $17 seniors & KU employ- and design theories. These were sixties. Will consider other ages for Marshall. ees, $10 students. Crafton-Preyer Theatre, Must be willing to ride on a horse. (417) pioneered by designers and tech- Murphy Hall-University of Kansas, (785) 483-4908, [email protected] nicians such as Frederick Bentham, 864-3982, www.kutheatre.com Edward Kool, Stanley McCandless, Noah’s Art by Ryan McCall & Nathan C Leawood Stage Company* Abe Feder, Peggy Clark, and Jean Tysen: Dec 2-11: 7:30 pm Fri-Sat; : The Musical by and Rosenthal to name just a few. 2:30 pm Sun Maury Yeston: Nov 5-6: 1 pm Sat-Sun This original new musical looks at the Now such a range can be found Titanic is based on the true story of the great magical power of wishing. It’s coming ship’s maiden voyage from departure in in instruments, color, and control up on Christmas and things are tough in Southhampton, England to the sinking in Noah’s world. What Noah wants most in the Atlantic by an iceberg. Directed by Shelly the possibilities are nearly limitless. the world is a train set, but his father is out Today, designers and technicians Stewart. Be prepared to sing 32 bars from of work. A budding artist, Noah draws a a musical of your choice. An accompanist work with moving lights, hundreds train set and it magically appears the next will be provided. Bring your music, photo, morning. Little by little, Noah experiments of dimmers and channels. Complex and resume. Oak Room, Leawood City Hall, with his magic crayons and makes gifts for 4800 Town Center Dr, (913) 339-6700, theory and infinite possibilities await all the family until the father accepts his www.leawoodstageco.org a new generation of lighting design- son’s gifts. $15 public, $14 seniors & KU employees, $10 students. Crafton-Preyer ers. A designer today is truly at the Theatre, Murphy Hall-University of Kan- A Music Theatre for Young People helm, painting the stage with light sas, (785) 864-3982, www.kutheatre.com Thoroughly Modern Milli by Jeanine Tes- ori, Dick Scanlan, and Richard Morris: only imagined by those first artisans. Nov 20: 2 pm Sun William Inge Center for the Arts* Based on the 1967 film of the same name, Sources: Playwrights-in-Residence Play Readings Thoroughly Modern Millie tells the story of by EM Lewis and Ken Urban: Nov 5: a small-town girl, Millie Dillmount, who Stage Lighting Design: The Art, The 2 pm, 7:30 pm Sat comes to to marry for money Craft, by Richard Pilbrow. Public readings of new plays by Fall instead of love – a thoroughly modern aim 2011 William Inge Center for the Arts Light Fantastic: The Art and Design in 1922, when women were just entering Playwright-in-Residence. The readings the workforce. Directed by Cary Daniel- of Stage Lighting by Max Keller. R feature professional actors and direc- son Pandzik; Roy Lightner; Julie Danielson. tors. Free. William Inge Theatre, 58 Road, Open to ages 13-18. Vocal auditions: 2-5 (800) 842-6063, www.ingecenter.org A This article was previously published pm, come as you like. Bring sheet music, an accompanist provided. See website for at http://kerry-chafin.suite101.com selection recommendations. Return for and is reprinted with permission of mandatory dance call 5-6:30 pm. Call- backs (if selected): 7-9 pm.Tuition: $195. the author. Kerry Chafin is a free- St James Academy, 24505 Prairie Star lance writer and the lighting designer Pkwy, (913) 341-8156, www.mtyp.org R for Journeyman Theatre. www.kcstage.com NOVEMBER 2011 17 KCSTAGE Presorted Standard PO Box 410492 U.S. Postage Paid Kansas City, Missouri Kansas City, Missouri 641 64141-0492 Permit No. 2117

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