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Generous support for the Friends of the MCA Stage Pooja and Peter Vukosavich/ As one of the nation’s largest multidisciplinary museums devoted to Courtesy Guidelines 2011–12 season of MCA Stage Studio V Design the art of our time, the Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago offers and Information is provided by Elizabeth A. Amphion Foundation, Inc. The Weasel Fund exhibitions of the most thought-provoking art of today. The museum’s Liebman, David Herro and Jay Katherine A. Abelson and Angel Ysaguirre and Bob Webb Parking Franke, Susan and Lew Manilow, Robert J. Cornell Anonymous performing arts program, MCA Stage, is the most active presenter of Validate your ticket at coat check Ellen Stone Belic, Lois and Janet Alberti and for $11 parking in the MCA garage theater, dance, and music in Chicago, featuring leading performers Steve Eisen and The Eisen Fred Schneider As of September 13, 2011 (220 E. Chicago Avenue) and from around the globe in our 300-seat theater. Bernardin garage (747 N. Wabash). Family Foundation, The Weasel Leigh and Henry Bienen The $11 parking is limited to six Fund, Carol Prins and John The Boeing Company hours on date of performance. Hart/The Jessica Fund, and Teddy Dean Boys Become a Friend of the MCA MCA Stage is committed to presenting groundbreaking performances Richard and Ann Tomlinson. Greg Cameron Stage that focus on collaboration; working closely with artists; converging Lost and found The Consulate General of To inquire about a lost item, with the larger programming of the museum; and offering a contem- Foundation Season Sponsor Poland in Chicago Support the voices and call the museum at 312.280.2660. Pamela Crutchfield visions of our time by porary view of the traditional roots of performance. Unclaimed articles are held for Shawn M. Donnelley and directly investing in the 30 days. Christopher M. Kelly work of living artists. Our Seating Lois and Steve Eisen and Friends of the MCA Stage Mary Ittelson, Performance Programs The Eisen Family Foundation receive exclusive benefits Chair of the Board of Trustees Peter Taub, Director Switch off all noise-making de- Gale and Ric Fischer such as recognition in MCA Madeleine Grynsztein, Yolanda Cesta Cursach, vices while you are in the theater. Pritzker Director Associate Director Official Airline David Herro and Jay Franke Stage program notes, Janet Alberti, Deputy Director Surinder Martignetti, Manager Late arrivals are seated at the Terri and Stephen Geifman exclusive ticket offers, and Chief Operating Officer Kevin Brown, management’s discretion. Food and Bill and Vicki Hood invitations to receptions with Michael Darling, House Management Associate open beverage containers are not Mary E. Ittelson the artists, and access to James W. Alsdorf Chief Curator Alicia Graf, allowed in the seating area. In-Kind Equipment Sponsor Anne and John Kern behind-the-scenes rehearsals. House Management Associate Lisa Yun Lee Performance Committee Eboni Senai Hawkins, Intern Reproduction Unauthorized recording and re- Elizabeth A. Liebman Become a Friend of the MCA Lois Eisen, Chair Susan and Lew Manilow Stage today by calling Katherine A. Abelson Theater Management production of a performance is Nancy Lauter McDougal and 312.397.3864. Ellen Stone Belic Dennis O’Shea, prohibited. Pamela Crutchfield Manager of Technical Production Hotel Partner Fred McDougal Ginger Farley Richard Norwood, Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago Susan Manning and Gale Fischer Theater Production Manager 220 E. Chicago Avenue Doug Doetsch Jay Franke Chicago, Illinois 60611 Maecenas Timothy A. Herwig Box Office mcachicago.org Charles L. Michod and John C. Kern Matti Allison, Manager Susan A. Michod General information 312.280.2660 Lisa Yun Lee Phongtorn Phongluantum, Herbert R. and Paula Molner Elizabeth A. Liebman Assistant Manager Maya Polsky Lewis Manilow Molly Laemle, Coordinator Box office 312.397.4010 Sarai Hoffman and Alfred L. McDougal Sarah Aguirre, Associate Paula Molner Pablo Anaya, Associate Volunteer for performances Stephen Pratt D. Elizabeth Price Angela Lopez, Associate 312.397.4072 Elizabeth Price and Carol Prins [email protected] Lou Yecies Cheryl Seder Carol Prins and John Hart/ Patty Sternberg Contact the Performance department The Jessica Fund [email protected] Richard Tomlinson MCA Chicago is a proud Mr. and Mrs. John Seder Pooja Vukosavich partner of the National Mr. and Mrs. Dan Sternberg Museum hours Performance Network. Tuesday: 10 am–8 pm Mr. & Mrs. Thomas C. Wednesday–Sunday: 10am–5pm Sheffield Jr. Program notes compiled by Closed Mondays, Thanksgiving, Ms. Patricia F. Sternberg Yolanda Cesta Cursach Christmas, and New Year’s Day Ellen Stone Belic Richard and Ann Tomlinson Originalremixed/ Musical. He was nominated for the Same Planet Different World Dance Theater. His Lucky Plush Productions Henry Hewes Design Award and recently hon- independent choreography has been created reimaginedored with The Michael Maggio Emerging for River North Dance Chicago, Hubbard Street Season Supporters Designer Award. He performs regularly with his 2, the Edinburgh Festival, Same Planet Different band Seeking Wonderland and Dynamic DJ World, among others. He has been nominated OnDuo, June The 23, Ordeal. 2011, MCA Chicago Sylvia Neil and Danfor RuthFischel Page AwardsLisa M.for Keyhis dancingand Kevin and Lint cho- The Better Half Supporters Linda & Tome Heagy Bobbie and Sheldon Zabel celebrated the achievements of Joseph G. Nicholasreography, Foundation is an IllinoisSuzanne Arts Lovell, Council Inc. grant recipi- Audience Architects’ MetLife Christine Huge Susan Zimmer MCA Stage with the remixed/ Donna and Howard Stone Stephen and Karen Malkin New Stages in Dance Mary Ialongo reimaginedHeather Gilbert Performance Jamie and Rob Taylorent, and teaches Susanat Northwestern Manning and University. The Boeing Company The Joyce Family Lucky Plush Productions is a The Elizabeth F. Cheney Foundation Jason Kaiser nonprofit organization. Your Benefit.has designed This lightinginnovative for the ChicagoDanielle produc- and Martin E. Doug Doetsch Clarice Smith Performing Bethany Kaufmann and family contributions are greatly appreci- evening was cochaired by MCA Zimmerman Barbara and Kent Manning tions The Detective’s Wife, A Streetcar Named Clare Roche Arts Center Barbara Koenen ated and are tax deductible to Trustee Sara Albrecht and MCA Marquis and Pamela Miller Desire, and The Old Settler (Writers’ Theatre); has worked as stage manager for the Chicago The Richard H. Driehaus Foundation Jeanne Kramer-Smyth the extent allowed by law. Performance Committee member Spotlight Supporters Herbert R. and Paula Molner Museum of Contemporary Chris Lahann JayHome, Franke. Comedy Our ofsincere Errors, and TheKatherine Mystery of A. Abelsonproductions and 13 ClocksAbby (Lifeline);O’Neil Macbeth and A Art Chicago Jo Ann Larimore Lucky Plush Productions thanksIrma Vep to (Courtall who Theatre); contributed Honus and Robert Me, J. CornellMidsummer Night’sTerry Dream and (LakesideCynthia Perucca National Performance Network Katie & Jason Leander 301 Olmsted Road Creation Fund Mary Lebbin Riverside, IL 60546 toEsperanza the event Rising and to, and all The who Hundred Jennifer Dresses Aubrey Shakespeare Theatre);Maya Polsky 500 Clown and continue to support MCA Stage Leigh and Henry Bienen Nicholas Bridon New England Foundation for the Becca Lemme 773.862.9484 in(Chicago its 15th Children’s season. Theatre); The JulieFront Pageand Larry, BernsteinTrapped (AdventureElizabeth Stage/500 Price Clown); and Sinbad: Arts’ National Dance Project Marcia and Virginia Lohner luckyplush.com James Lupo StealThisDance.com Deborah A. Bricker Lou Yecies Master Harold and the Boys, and Not Enough The Untold Tale (Adventure Stage); Cabaret Foundation, Government & Jessie Marasa remixed/reimagined Host Suzette and Sally and Ellis Regenbogen Air (Timeline Theatre); Our Town and Cabaret (Hypocrites); Red Noses (Strawdog); Woody Corporate Supporters Jennifer Meek Lucky Plush Board of Directors Committee Allan E. Bulley III Cheryl and John Seder (Hypocrites); and A Separate Peace Guthrie’s American Song (Blindfaith); and On Alphawood Foundation Raquel Monroe Elaine Adams, President Evening Benefactors Maureen and Scott Byron Irving Stenn, Jr. Gaylord & Dorothy Donneley Martha Mulligan and Johan Tabora Marcia Lohner, Secretary Sara(Steppenwolf Albrecht Theatre Company). HerMeg regionaland Tim CallahanMy Parent’s 100thDorie Wedding Sternberg Anniversary (Side Foundation Susan O’Connell Kay Vee Rhoads, Treasurer Loiscredits and include Steve AEisen Streetcar Named MarciaDesire Cohn Project). She hasPatty toured Sternberg with 500 Clown produc- The Richard H. Driehaus Foundation Amy Ornée Julie Englander Jay Franke and David Herro Marge and Lew Collens Peggy and Jim Swartchild The Grover Hermann Foundation Heather Overbeck Katie Leander Susan(Williamstown and Lew TheatreManilow Festival) andPatricia The Cox tions of FrankensteinKathy and Taslitz Macbeth. Roche Illinois Arts Council, Jennifer and Robin Pastore James Lupo CariFarnsworth and Michael Invention Sacks (Alley Theatre),Pam andCrutchfield Off- works as Master ElectricianRichard and at Ann Loyola Tomlinson University a state agency Elizabeth Press Heather Overbeck The Morrison-Shearer Foundation Tony Randazzo and Kathleen Mary Carpenter Rechner Nora Daley Conroy Kay and Craig Tuber Broadway credits include Our Town (Barrow Chicago and resident designer at Sacred Heart Peter G. & Elizabeth Mitchell Julia Rhoads Patron Sponsors and Sean Conroy Peter and Pooja Vukosavich/ Street Theatre). Upcoming projects include The Academy. She was assistant lighting designer Torosian Foundation Bea Rashid Andrew Suprenant W. George and Margot Greig Dana and Stan Day Studio V Design Mary Rechner Paul Rhoads (advisory) MaryCaretaker Ittelson at Writers’ Theatre and OurTed andTown Julia at DeNapolifor Cyrano (HouseTrudy Theatre). and Jim Her Westerman forthcoming Individual Supporters Ed Reed Annethe Broad Kaplan Stage in LA. She is a 1999–2001Dirk Denison and projectsDavid Salkin include assistant lighting designer for Donna Aylesworth Tim Reid Sallyrecipient Meyers of the Kovler NEA/TCG and DevelopmentDan and Program Nicole DrexlerDeath and Harry Houdini (House) and stage Gloria Baird Alice and Gurrie Rhoads Jonathan Kovler Laura and Scott Eisen Anne Biberman Nicole and Geoff Rhoads Award.Rocco and She Roxanne serves Martinoas the Head of SidneyLighting and Sondramanager for The Giver (Adventure Stage). Will Bond and Marianne Kim Christopher Richardson Photo: Cheryl Mann Cheryl Photo: CarolDesign Prins at Columbia and John College Hart and received Berman her Epstein Robert and Frances Boardman Sarah Rigdon Lia Bonfilio Stefen Robinson UBS Ginger Farley and Bob Shapiro MFA from The Theatre School at DePaul. Jamie Breeck Marcia Rosenthal Helen and Sam Zell Gale and Ric Fischer LuckyAmanda Burr Plush ProductionsNana Shineflug October 27–29 and Terri and Stephen Geifman Seiji Carpenter Jenny Shore SpotlightJeff Hancock Sponsors Nicholas and Nancy Giampietro/ TheMichael ClaypoolBetter Half Julie Shore November 3, 5, and 6, 2011 Maryhas beenJo and designing Doug Basler and constructing Reyes costumes Holdings Margi Cole Scott Silberstein Ellenfor over Stone 20 years, Belic and his design company,Paul and -ishLinda, Gotskind Pamela Crutchfield Mark Shevitz and Amy Jacksic Robert and Sheryl Bellick Paul Gray and Hillary Curtis Jeannine Schutz Marlenewas formed Breslow-Blitstein in 2007. He has created Dedreacostumes Armour Gray Laura Dixon Jan Shurtz for and River Berle North Blitstein Dance Chicago, HubbardRachel Streetand David Grund Joan P Emery Patricia Sigurdson Julie Englander and Frank Hill Mary Smith Stefan Edlis and Gael Neeson Caryn and King Harris Inside/Out, Gus Giordano Dance Chicago, Patti Eylar Ron and Cindy Stein Larry and Marilyn Fields Bill and Vicki Hood Danceworks Chicago, Peter Carpenter, Molly Michael Estanich Andrew Suprenant Walter and Karla Cynthia Hunt and Ginger Farley and Robert Shapiro Nancy Watson Shanahan Goldschmidt Mad/Shak, Foundation and Lucky Plush Philip Rudolph Nancy P Genoar Amy Page Wilhelm JackProductions, and Sandra among Guthman many others. SusieHancock Karkomi is a and Joe Germuska Marian Wilkinson Gretchen and Jay Jordan Marvin Leavitt Jared Gerstenblatt Susanne and Richard Wren Kimfounding and Brad member Keywell of River North DanceAnne andChicago, John Kern Matthew and Kristin Glavin Lisa Wymore Roberthas danced M. and for Diane Hubbard v.S. Street Levy DanceLinda Chicago Kinzelberg Dan Goldman Jacob Yarrow and Family the Lyric Foundation Opera, and formerly directedRon and Fifi Levin Carrie Hanson Cheryl Yuen Artistspher Molly Shanahan; Up Close and this past summer The 50 people who really perform for Chicago”. LuckyKim Goldman Plush Productions Meghann Wilkinson appearing as Masha in The Seagull in Chekhov She is formerly a company member of the San has been a collaborating ensemble member is a graduate of Northwestern University and is on Lake Lucille in NY (director Brian Mertes). Francisco Ballet, and a collaborating ensemble Thewith Lucky Better Plush Productions Half on seven compa- in her eighth season as a collaborating ensem- Buxbaum Danzig received her BA from Brown member of XSIGHT! Performance Group. She ny works since 2004. She has also danced with ble member with Lucky Plush Productions. She University and PhD in Performance Studies at earned a BA in History from Northwestern Hedwig Dances and Mordine and Company in is a former company member of Mordine and Northwestern University, and trained in physical University and an MFA from the School of the Chicago, toured Virginia & NY with James Company Dance Theater and has appeared in Support for The Better Half Co-created and co-directed by Composition/Sound Design: theaterArtists and Up clownClose with Jacques Lecoq and Art Institute Chicago, and is currently a part-time Hansen/Assemblage, and danced for numerous Chicago with Smith/Wymore Disappearing Acts, This series brings together MCA is generously provided by Leslie Buxbaum Danzig and Mikhail Fiksel* Philippe Gaulier. For the past five years, she faculty member in the theater department at independent choreographers in both Chicago Cie Felix Ruckert, Raizel Performances, NU Stage artists with the public Pamela Crutchfield. Julia Rhoads hasover taught a variety at the of University intimate con- of Chicago and Columbia College Chicago. and New York. Goldman has received Group, and Peter Carpenter Performance versations and training to pro- Lighting Design: Heather Gilbert* recently began a new role at the University as Bachelor’s degrees in Dance & Psychology from Project. Wilkinson has been a guest teacher and vide insight into the creative The Better Half is a National Collaboratively devised and Programprocess. Curator for the Richard and Mary L. Adrian Danzig the University of Illinois, and an MFA in Dance choreographer for the Cecchetti Council of Performance Network Creation performed by The Ensemble: Costume Design: Jeff Hancock Gray Center for Arts and Inquiry. was a featured performer most recently for The Performance & Choreography at New York America, Fairbanks Summer Arts Festival, and Earlier this year in June, Fund Project commissioned by Adrian Danzig, Kim Goldman, Lucky Plush Productions was in Seagull at Lake Lucille and Orlando at The University where she danced in work by Tere the Evanston Dance Ensemble and was the Museum of Contemporary Tim Heck, Julia Rhoads, Stage Management: Clare Roche Juliaresidency Rhoads at MCA to work on the Court Theater. He regularly performs the shows O’Connor, Larry Keigwin and Gerald Casel. Her Assistant Choreographer for Lookingglass design of sound, lighting, and Art Chicago in partnership with Meghann Wilkinson Additional music by: is choreographer and founding Artistic Director in the 500 Clown touring repertoire: 500 independent choreography has been presented Theater’s The Great Fire. Currently on faculty at set for The Better Half. The Clarice Smith Performing Arts “Egon & Edith.” Rachel’s. Music for of residencyLucky Plush culminated Productions. June 30 Her work with the Clown Macbeth, 500 Clown Frankenstein, 500 at The College of William & Mary (VA), Columbia College Chicago, she has taught at with public open showing of the Center and NPN. Special thanks: Original Script: Egon Schiele, 1996 Quarterstick company has been presented in Chicago ven- Clown Christmas, and 500 Clown Trapped. Danspace Center, Williamsburg Art nexus, Northwestern University, Dance Center work in progress. Peter Taub, Yolanda Cesta Leslie Buxbaum Danzig, Records (BMI). ues including the MCA Stage, DanceThe CenterNational of Performance Danzig Network has led workshopsCursach, Surinder in physical Martignetti, theater Dance Theater Workshop, and St. Mark’s Evanston, and Visceral Dance Chicago and has Creation Fund is supported by the Richard Norwood, Erin Baldwin, Julia Rhoads, and Columbia College, Steppenwolf Garage, Cusp throughout the US and internationally for the Church. She has been a guest teacher for Luna organized for the Chicago Seminar on Dance Doris Duke Charitable Foundation, Chaz Olajide, Mia Wicklund, and the Ensemble * Member of United Scenic Artists (USA) Conference,Open Doors and Chicago HumanitiesFord festival,Foundation, andpast the 10National years. Hethe has rest performed of the fantastic in productions staff Negra Dance Theater, and a part-time faculty and Performance and the Society of Dance andOctober recent 26 and upcoming tours includeEndowment Joyce for the Artsat The (a federalGoodman atTheatre, Museum ofThe Contemporary Second City, Art member of Illinois Wesleyan University and The History Scholars. Museum visitors were invited to agency). Chicago; Paul Brohan and the Text Excerpts: SoHoview (NYC),Lucky Plush Jacob’s Productions Pillow at(MA), Grace Street Steppenwolf Studio,Clarice Berkeley Smith Rep,Performing Brooklyn Arts Dance Center of Columbia College. Gaslight, stage play titled Theaterwork on (VA), the stageSpring during to Dance regu- (MO),The Hancher Better Half is Academyalso supported of Music, Center; The PublicElaine Theater,Adams and andthe Luckywith Mikhail Fiksel lar hours. in part by Audience Architects’ Plush Board of Directors for their Angel Street Auditorium (IA), Doudna Fine Arts CenterNew Stages (IL), for DanceShakespeare Initiative. & Companyongoing and and Better Lookingglass. Half Gala sup- Tim Heck is originally from Siberia. He is on the faculty at (Patrick Hamilton) and Clarice Smith Performing Arts LeadershipCenter (MD), support Hefor hasthe Newperformed port; his soloPamela works Crutchfield at The for Kitchen, her has been an ensemble member with Lucky Loyola University and works as sound designer, Stages for Dance Initiative is many contributions to the project; Scenes from a Marriage among others. Her independent work has been P.S. 122, The Ontological Hysteric Theater Plush Productions for She/Three (2006) and composer, musician and DJ. He is an ensemble First Night provided by MetLife Foundation and Susan Manning, Ginger Farley, and (Ingmar Bergman) commissionedOctober 27 and byNovember Alaska 3 Dance Theater,Dance/USA. and Soho Rep. HeMatt was Glavin an early for theirNeo-futurist early proj- The Sky Hangs Down To Close (2008), and will member of StrawdogTheatre Company and 2nd Following the performance, audi- ect support; Heidi Coleman and the The Bourne Identity Mordine and Company Dance Theater, and and a founding member of Redmoon Theater, be part of their upcoming tour of Punk Yankees. Story, and Artistic Associate with Teatro Vista, ence members are invited to The creation and presentation University of Chicago Summer Lab (Robert Ludlum) Riverjoin Northan insightful Chicago discussion Dance Company, of The and Better she Half Hubinspokeis supported TheaterInc; andNick isPupillo, the found- Sarah Robinson Since graduating Hope College in 2004, he has Collaboraction, and Redmoon Theatre. His Trust (Hal Hartley) hasled choreographed by Peter Taub, Director for theater, of performanceby the National Endowmenting Producing for Artisticand the Director staff atof Visceral500 Clown. Dance also worked and performed with Molly recent Chicago credits include work for The Performance Programs, with co- the Arts in cooperation with the Studio; Chicago Moving Company for Flirt (Hal Hartley) anddirectors film companies Julia Rhoads, including Leslie LookingglassNew England FoundationHe graduated for the frompresenting the High an School early in-progressof Shanahan/Mad Shak, Redmoon Theater, Goodman Theatre, Writers Theatre, Redmoon, All the Real Girls TheatreBuxbaum Company, Danzig, and Redmoon their cre- Theater,Arts through the NationalPerforming Dance Arts inversion New York,of the received work at Hamlinhis BA Thodos Dance Chicago, Giordano Jazz Dance Victory Gardens, Lifeline, Northlight, Albany ative team. Project. Major support for NDP Park Studio Theater; Cheryl Mann (David Gordon Green) Walkabout Theater, Hyperdelic, andis M5.provided by the fromDoris Oberlin CollegeDuke (photography) and his MFAand Carol from Genetti the Chicago, and Eisenhower Dance Park Theatre Project, The Hypocrites, Teatro Charitable FoundationSchool and the of The Art(graphic Institute design) of Chicago. for their He con-has Ensemble. From 2007-2009, he performed as a Vista, About Face, and Collaboraction. His Andrew W. Mellon Foundation, tributions to the project; Alex RhoadsSaturday has Speakeasy received a Cliff Dwellerswith additional supportstudied clown from the withBrenneman CtiborTurba, for tech Philippe and web sup- Blue Man in Blue Man Group at the Briar Street regional and off-Broadway credits include The FoundationOctober 29 Awardand November for Choreography, 5 Community two Illinois Connections Gaulier, Fund of Ronlin the Foreman,port; and DominiqueLauren Nixon, Jando, Angela Theater. In 2011 Heck joined the company of 500 Geffen Playhouse, 2nd Stage, St. Louis Following the performance, audi- MetLife Foundation. Additional Luem, Ivan Sygoda, and everyone Artsence Council members Fellowships are invited tofor Choreography,support for a The BetterElsComediants, Half is Davidelse at Shiner, Pentacle Avner for theirthe ongoing Clown for the premier of 500 Clown Trapped, Repertory, and Milwaukee Chamber Theatre. He Jacobmingle K. with Javits the Fellowship,company in a Chicagoprovided through projectEccentric grants and wasadvocacy a clown and with representation Big Apple toured as a part of the performing ensemble has worked at TukkersConnexion (Arnhem, Dancemakersthe lobby, with Forum a cash Lab bar Artistand Award,to Lucky and Plush a ProductionsCircus Clownfrom Care for seven years. He is cur- with New Belgium Brewery’s bicycle celebrating Holland) and Festival FILO (Londrina, Brazil), snacks available. Boeing, The Elizabeth F. Cheney fellowship from the Maggie AlleseeFoundation, National and therently Richard writing H. a book on physical theater with festival Tour de Fat, played percussion with the and his film composition credits include The Center for Choreography. In 2010, sheDriehaus was Foundation.support from the Raven Foundation. Brooklyn-based band The Hollows, and contin- Wise Kids, In Memoriam, and both/and. He has named one of Dance Magazine’s “25 to Watch” ued as cheerleader for Chicago’s circus-punk- received five Joseph Jefferson Awards, a Lucille and included in NewCity’s feature “The Players: marching band Mucca Pazza. Lortel Award, and an After Dark Award for an About the artists Dance Theater Dance Exchange Lucky Plush Productions Best Original Dance Works” (for Endplay);the Liz Lerman’s is a Chicago-based dance-theater company that Chicago Tribune’s “Best of Dance 2008”; The Matter of Origins devises works with a focus on strong ensem- Chicago Sun-Times’ “Lasting memories in Nov 10–13, 2011 bles, complex choreography, innovative uses of Dance” for 2005 and 2007, and a Time Out technology, and intellectually bold content. Led Chicago feature cover story “5 reasons to love Copresented with the by choreographer Julia Rhoads, Lucky Plush is dance in Chicago.” Chicago Humanities Festival known for its lush and evocative movement, witty commentary, and artful integration of Lucky Plush Productions is a member of dance, theater, and visual design. Since its Pentacle (DanceWorks, Inc.), a non-profit ser- founding in 1999, Lucky Plush has premiered 30 vice organization for the performing arts, Mara original works including performance installa- Greenberg and Ivan Sygoda, Directors (www. tions, two dance films, and nine evening-length pentacle.org). Information about Lucky Plush productions. The company has been presented Productions’ activities may be obtained by con- by a wide range of venues including Joyce tacting Lauren Nixon at 212-278-8111 ext. 305, or SoHo (NY), Jacob’s Pillow (MA), Dance Center at [email protected]. For additional infor- of Columbia College Chicago, Steppenwolf mation about Lucky Plush Productions, or to Garage (IL), Chicago Humanities Festival, Cusp learn about our Board of Directors and other Conference (IL), Grace Street Theater (VA), volunteer activities, please contact us at www. Spring to Dance (MO), Madame Walker Theater luckyplush.com. (IN), and the Fairbanks Summer Arts Festival (AK). Lucky Plush’s world premiere of Cinderbox Leslie Buxbaum Danzig 18 was created in residence and presented by is co-founder of the Chicago-based physical the- the Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago in ater company 500 Clown, where she co-created 2007. Upcoming tours by the company include and directed 500 Clown Macbeth, Frankenstein, Doudna Fine Arts Center (IL), Hancher Elephant Deal, and Christmas. 500 Clown has “A work of expansive Auditorium (IA), and Clarice Smith Performing played in Chicago at venues including Arts Center (MD). Steppenwolf and Lookingglass, tours regularly range, emotional depth throughout the US, and has received commis- and singular beauty.” Lucky Plush’s work has been supported through sions/fellowships from Clarice Smith Performing regional and national awards to Julia Rhoads Arts Center (MD), College of St. Benedict’s/Saint The Washington Post including a Chicago Dancemakers Forum Lab John’s University (MN), and University of Artist grant, two Illinois Arts Council fellowships Chicago. Other credits include directing For tickets, visit mcachicago.org or call in Choreography, and a fellowship from the Redmoon’s Hunchback at New Victory Theater 312.397.4010. Maggie Allesee National Center for (NYC) and Float (About Face Theater); touring Choreography. The company has been recog- nationally and internationally as an actor with Support for this project is generously provided by the Boeing Company. nized by the Chicago Reader’s “Best of Chicago NYC’s Elevator Repair Service; assisting direc-

Photo: George Hagegeorge George Photo: 2010”; Time Out Chicago’s “The Decade’s 10 tor Julie Taymor; dramaturging for choreogra- Artistspher Molly Shanahan; Up Close and this past summer The 50 people who really perform for Chicago”. LuckyKim Goldman Plush Productions Meghann Wilkinson appearing as Masha in The Seagull in Chekhov She is formerly a company member of the San has been a collaborating ensemble member is a graduate of Northwestern University and is on Lake Lucille in NY (director Brian Mertes). Francisco Ballet, and a collaborating ensemble Thewith Lucky Better Plush Productions Half on seven compa- in her eighth season as a collaborating ensem- Buxbaum Danzig received her BA from Brown member of XSIGHT! Performance Group. She ny works since 2004. She has also danced with ble member with Lucky Plush Productions. She University and PhD in Performance Studies at earned a BA in History from Northwestern Hedwig Dances and Mordine and Company in is a former company member of Mordine and Northwestern University, and trained in physical University and an MFA from the School of the Chicago, toured Virginia & NY with James Company Dance Theater and has appeared in Support for The Better Half Co-created and co-directed by Composition/Sound Design: theaterArtists and Up clownClose with Jacques Lecoq and Art Institute Chicago, and is currently a part-time Hansen/Assemblage, and danced for numerous Chicago with Smith/Wymore Disappearing Acts, This series brings together MCA is generously provided by Leslie Buxbaum Danzig and Mikhail Fiksel* Philippe Gaulier. For the past five years, she faculty member in the theater department at independent choreographers in both Chicago Cie Felix Ruckert, Raizel Performances, NU Stage artists with the public Pamela Crutchfield. Julia Rhoads hasover taught a variety at the of University intimate con- of Chicago and Columbia College Chicago. and New York. Goldman has received Group, and Peter Carpenter Performance versations and training to pro- Lighting Design: Heather Gilbert* recently began a new role at the University as Bachelor’s degrees in Dance & Psychology from Project. Wilkinson has been a guest teacher and vide insight into the creative The Better Half is a National Collaboratively devised and Programprocess. Curator for the Richard and Mary L. Adrian Danzig the University of Illinois, and an MFA in Dance choreographer for the Cecchetti Council of Performance Network Creation performed by The Ensemble: Costume Design: Jeff Hancock Gray Center for Arts and Inquiry. was a featured performer most recently for The Performance & Choreography at New York America, Fairbanks Summer Arts Festival, and Earlier this year in June, Fund Project commissioned by Adrian Danzig, Kim Goldman, Lucky Plush Productions was in Seagull at Lake Lucille and Orlando at The University where she danced in work by Tere the Evanston Dance Ensemble and was the Museum of Contemporary Tim Heck, Julia Rhoads, Stage Management: Clare Roche Juliaresidency Rhoads at MCA to work on the Court Theater. He regularly performs the shows O’Connor, Larry Keigwin and Gerald Casel. Her Assistant Choreographer for Lookingglass design of sound, lighting, and Art Chicago in partnership with Meghann Wilkinson Additional music by: is choreographer and founding Artistic Director in the 500 Clown touring repertoire: 500 independent choreography has been presented Theater’s The Great Fire. Currently on faculty at set for The Better Half. The Clarice Smith Performing Arts “Egon & Edith.” Rachel’s. Music for of residencyLucky Plush culminated Productions. June 30 Her work with the Clown Macbeth, 500 Clown Frankenstein, 500 at The College of William & Mary (VA), Columbia College Chicago, she has taught at with public open showing of the Center and NPN. Special thanks: Original Script: Egon Schiele, 1996 Quarterstick company has been presented in Chicago ven- Clown Christmas, and 500 Clown Trapped. Danspace Center, Williamsburg Art nexus, Northwestern University, Dance Center work in progress. Peter Taub, Yolanda Cesta Leslie Buxbaum Danzig, Records (BMI). ues including the MCA Stage, DanceThe CenterNational of Performance Danzig Network has led workshopsCursach, Surinder in physical Martignetti, theater Dance Theater Workshop, and St. Mark’s Evanston, and Visceral Dance Chicago and has Creation Fund is supported by the Richard Norwood, Erin Baldwin, Julia Rhoads, and Columbia College, Steppenwolf Garage, Cusp throughout the US and internationally for the Church. She has been a guest teacher for Luna organized for the Chicago Seminar on Dance Doris Duke Charitable Foundation, Chaz Olajide, Mia Wicklund, and the Ensemble * Member of United Scenic Artists (USA) Conference,Open Doors and Chicago HumanitiesFord festival,Foundation, andpast the 10National years. Hethe has rest performed of the fantastic in productions staff Negra Dance Theater, and a part-time faculty and Performance and the Society of Dance andOctober recent 26 and upcoming tours includeEndowment Joyce for the Artsat The (a federalGoodman atTheatre, Museum ofThe Contemporary Second City, Art member of Illinois Wesleyan University and The History Scholars. Museum visitors were invited to agency). Chicago; Paul Brohan and the Text Excerpts: SoHoview (NYC),Lucky Plush Jacob’s Productions Pillow at(MA), Grace Street Steppenwolf Studio,Clarice Berkeley Smith Rep,Performing Brooklyn Arts Dance Center of Columbia College. Gaslight, stage play titled Theaterwork on (VA), the stageSpring during to Dance regu- (MO),The Hancher Better Half is Academyalso supported of Music, Center; The PublicElaine Theater,Adams and andthe Luckywith Mikhail Fiksel lar hours. in part by Audience Architects’ Plush Board of Directors for their Angel Street Auditorium (IA), Doudna Fine Arts CenterNew Stages (IL), for DanceShakespeare Initiative. & Companyongoing and and Better Lookingglass. Half Gala sup- Tim Heck is originally from Siberia. He is on the faculty at (Patrick Hamilton) and Clarice Smith Performing Arts LeadershipCenter (MD), support Hefor hasthe Newperformed port; his soloPamela works Crutchfield at The for Kitchen, her has been an ensemble member with Lucky Loyola University and works as sound designer, Stages for Dance Initiative is many contributions to the project; Scenes from a Marriage among others. Her independent work has been P.S. 122, The Ontological Hysteric Theater Plush Productions for She/Three (2006) and composer, musician and DJ. He is an ensemble First Night provided by MetLife Foundation and Susan Manning, Ginger Farley, and (Ingmar Bergman) commissionedOctober 27 and byNovember Alaska 3 Dance Theater,Dance/USA. and Soho Rep. HeMatt was Glavin an early for theirNeo-futurist early proj- The Sky Hangs Down To Close (2008), and will member of StrawdogTheatre Company and 2nd Following the performance, audi- ect support; Heidi Coleman and the The Bourne Identity Mordine and Company Dance Theater, and and a founding member of Redmoon Theater, be part of their upcoming tour of Punk Yankees. Story, and Artistic Associate with Teatro Vista, ence members are invited to The creation and presentation University of Chicago Summer Lab (Robert Ludlum) Riverjoin Northan insightful Chicago discussion Dance Company, of The and Better she Half Hubinspokeis supported TheaterInc; andNick isPupillo, the found- Sarah Robinson Since graduating Hope College in 2004, he has Collaboraction, and Redmoon Theatre. His Trust (Hal Hartley) hasled choreographed by Peter Taub, Director for theater, of performanceby the National Endowmenting Producing for Artisticand the Director staff atof Visceral500 Clown. Dance also worked and performed with Molly recent Chicago credits include work for The Performance Programs, with co- the Arts in cooperation with the Studio; Chicago Moving Company for Flirt (Hal Hartley) anddirectors film companies Julia Rhoads, including Leslie LookingglassNew England FoundationHe graduated for the frompresenting the High an School early in-progressof Shanahan/Mad Shak, Redmoon Theater, Goodman Theatre, Writers Theatre, Redmoon, All the Real Girls TheatreBuxbaum Company, Danzig, and Redmoon their cre- Theater,Arts through the NationalPerforming Dance Arts inversion New York,of the received work at Hamlinhis BA Thodos Dance Chicago, Giordano Jazz Dance Victory Gardens, Lifeline, Northlight, Albany ative team. Project. Major support for NDP Park Studio Theater; Cheryl Mann (David Gordon Green) Walkabout Theater, Hyperdelic, andis M5.provided by the fromDoris Oberlin CollegeDuke (photography) and his MFAand Carol from Genetti the Chicago, and Eisenhower Dance Park Theatre Project, The Hypocrites, Teatro Charitable FoundationSchool and the of The Art(graphic Institute design) of Chicago. for their He con-has Ensemble. From 2007-2009, he performed as a Vista, About Face, and Collaboraction. His Andrew W. Mellon Foundation, tributions to the project; Alex RhoadsSaturday has Speakeasy received a Cliff Dwellerswith additional supportstudied clown from the withBrenneman CtiborTurba, for tech Philippe and web sup- Blue Man in Blue Man Group at the Briar Street regional and off-Broadway credits include The FoundationOctober 29 Awardand November for Choreography, 5 Community two Illinois Connections Gaulier, Fund of Ronlin the Foreman,port; and DominiqueLauren Nixon, Jando, Angela Theater. In 2011 Heck joined the company of 500 Geffen Playhouse, 2nd Stage, St. Louis Following the performance, audi- MetLife Foundation. Additional Luem, Ivan Sygoda, and everyone Artsence Council members Fellowships are invited tofor Choreography,support for a The BetterElsComediants, Half is Davidelse at Shiner, Pentacle Avner for theirthe ongoing Clown for the premier of 500 Clown Trapped, Repertory, and Milwaukee Chamber Theatre. He Jacobmingle K. with Javits the Fellowship,company in a Chicagoprovided through projectEccentric grants and wasadvocacy a clown and with representation Big Apple toured as a part of the performing ensemble has worked at TukkersConnexion (Arnhem, Dancemakersthe lobby, with Forum a cash Lab bar Artistand Award,to Lucky and Plush a ProductionsCircus Clownfrom Care for seven years. He is cur- with New Belgium Brewery’s bicycle celebrating Holland) and Festival FILO (Londrina, Brazil), snacks available. Boeing, The Elizabeth F. Cheney fellowship from the Maggie AlleseeFoundation, National and therently Richard writing H. a book on physical theater with festival Tour de Fat, played percussion with the and his film composition credits include The Center for Choreography. In 2010, sheDriehaus was Foundation.support from the Raven Foundation. Brooklyn-based band The Hollows, and contin- Wise Kids, In Memoriam, and both/and. He has named one of Dance Magazine’s “25 to Watch” ued as cheerleader for Chicago’s circus-punk- received five Joseph Jefferson Awards, a Lucille and included in NewCity’s feature “The Players: marching band Mucca Pazza. Lortel Award, and an After Dark Award for an Originalremixed/ Musical. He was nominated for the Same Planet Different World Dance Theater. His Lucky Plush Productions Henry Hewes Design Award and recently hon- independent choreography has been created reimaginedored with The Michael Maggio Emerging for River North Dance Chicago, Hubbard Street Season Supporters Designer Award. He performs regularly with his 2, the Edinburgh Festival, Same Planet Different band Seeking Wonderland and Dynamic DJ World, among others. He has been nominated OnDuo, June The 23, Ordeal. 2011, MCA Chicago Sylvia Neil and Danfor RuthFischel Page AwardsLisa M.for Keyhis dancingand Kevin and Lint cho- The Better Half Supporters Linda & Tome Heagy Bobbie and Sheldon Zabel celebrated the achievements of Joseph G. Nicholasreography, Foundation is an IllinoisSuzanne Arts Lovell, Council Inc. grant recipi- Audience Architects’ MetLife Christine Huge Susan Zimmer MCA Stage with the remixed/ Donna and Howard Stone Stephen and Karen Malkin New Stages in Dance Mary Ialongo reimaginedHeather Gilbert Performance Jamie and Rob Taylorent, and teaches Susanat Northwestern Manning and University. The Boeing Company The Joyce Family Lucky Plush Productions is a The Elizabeth F. Cheney Foundation Jason Kaiser nonprofit organization. Your Benefit.has designed This lightinginnovative for the ChicagoDanielle produc- and Martin E. Doug Doetsch Clarice Smith Performing Bethany Kaufmann and family contributions are greatly appreci- evening was cochaired by MCA Zimmerman Barbara and Kent Manning tions The Detective’s Wife, A Streetcar Named Clare Roche Arts Center Barbara Koenen ated and are tax deductible to Trustee Sara Albrecht and MCA Marquis and Pamela Miller Desire, and The Old Settler (Writers’ Theatre); has worked as stage manager for the Chicago The Richard H. Driehaus Foundation Jeanne Kramer-Smyth the extent allowed by law. Performance Committee member Spotlight Supporters Herbert R. and Paula Molner Museum of Contemporary Chris Lahann JayHome, Franke. Comedy Our ofsincere Errors, and TheKatherine Mystery of A. Abelsonproductions and 13 ClocksAbby (Lifeline);O’Neil Macbeth and A Art Chicago Jo Ann Larimore Lucky Plush Productions thanksIrma Vep to (Courtall who Theatre); contributed Honus and Robert Me, J. CornellMidsummer Night’sTerry Dream and (LakesideCynthia Perucca National Performance Network Katie & Jason Leander 301 Olmsted Road Creation Fund Mary Lebbin Riverside, IL 60546 toEsperanza the event Rising and to, and all The who Hundred Jennifer Dresses Aubrey Shakespeare Theatre);Maya Polsky 500 Clown and continue to support MCA Stage Leigh and Henry Bienen Nicholas Bridon New England Foundation for the Becca Lemme 773.862.9484 in(Chicago its 15th Children’s season. Theatre); The JulieFront Pageand Larry, BernsteinTrapped (AdventureElizabeth Stage/500 Price Clown); and Sinbad: Arts’ National Dance Project Marcia and Virginia Lohner luckyplush.com James Lupo StealThisDance.com Deborah A. Bricker Lou Yecies Master Harold and the Boys, and Not Enough The Untold Tale (Adventure Stage); Cabaret Foundation, Government & Jessie Marasa remixed/reimagined Host Suzette and Sally and Ellis Regenbogen Air (Timeline Theatre); Our Town and Cabaret (Hypocrites); Red Noses (Strawdog); Woody Corporate Supporters Jennifer Meek Lucky Plush Board of Directors Committee Allan E. Bulley III Cheryl and John Seder (Hypocrites); and A Separate Peace Guthrie’s American Song (Blindfaith); and On Alphawood Foundation Raquel Monroe Elaine Adams, President Evening Benefactors Maureen and Scott Byron Irving Stenn, Jr. Gaylord & Dorothy Donneley Martha Mulligan and Johan Tabora Marcia Lohner, Secretary Sara(Steppenwolf Albrecht Theatre Company). HerMeg regionaland Tim CallahanMy Parent’s 100thDorie Wedding Sternberg Anniversary (Side Foundation Susan O’Connell Kay Vee Rhoads, Treasurer Loiscredits and include Steve AEisen Streetcar Named MarciaDesire Cohn Project). She hasPatty toured Sternberg with 500 Clown produc- The Richard H. Driehaus Foundation Amy Ornée Julie Englander Jay Franke and David Herro Marge and Lew Collens Peggy and Jim Swartchild The Grover Hermann Foundation Heather Overbeck Katie Leander Susan(Williamstown and Lew TheatreManilow Festival) andPatricia The Cox tions of FrankensteinKathy and Taslitz Macbeth. Roche Illinois Arts Council, Jennifer and Robin Pastore James Lupo CariFarnsworth and Michael Invention Sacks (Alley Theatre),Pam andCrutchfield Off- works as Master ElectricianRichard and at Ann Loyola Tomlinson University a state agency Elizabeth Press Heather Overbeck The Morrison-Shearer Foundation Tony Randazzo and Kathleen Mary Carpenter Rechner Nora Daley Conroy Kay and Craig Tuber Broadway credits include Our Town (Barrow Chicago and resident designer at Sacred Heart Peter G. & Elizabeth Mitchell Julia Rhoads Patron Sponsors and Sean Conroy Peter and Pooja Vukosavich/ Street Theatre). Upcoming projects include The Academy. She was assistant lighting designer Torosian Foundation Bea Rashid Andrew Suprenant W. George and Margot Greig Dana and Stan Day Studio V Design Mary Rechner Paul Rhoads (advisory) MaryCaretaker Ittelson at Writers’ Theatre and OurTed andTown Julia at DeNapolifor Cyrano (HouseTrudy Theatre). and Jim Her Westerman forthcoming Individual Supporters Ed Reed Annethe Broad Kaplan Stage in LA. She is a 1999–2001Dirk Denison and projectsDavid Salkin include assistant lighting designer for Donna Aylesworth Tim Reid Sallyrecipient Meyers of the Kovler NEA/TCG and DevelopmentDan and Program Nicole DrexlerDeath and Harry Houdini (House) and stage Gloria Baird Alice and Gurrie Rhoads Jonathan Kovler Laura and Scott Eisen Anne Biberman Nicole and Geoff Rhoads Award.Rocco and She Roxanne serves Martinoas the Head of SidneyLighting and Sondramanager for The Giver (Adventure Stage). Will Bond and Marianne Kim Christopher Richardson Photo: Cheryl Mann Cheryl Photo: CarolDesign Prins at Columbia and John College Hart and received Berman her Epstein Robert and Frances Boardman Sarah Rigdon Lia Bonfilio Stefen Robinson UBS Ginger Farley and Bob Shapiro MFA from The Theatre School at DePaul. Jamie Breeck Marcia Rosenthal Helen and Sam Zell Gale and Ric Fischer LuckyAmanda Burr Plush ProductionsNana Shineflug October 27–29 and Terri and Stephen Geifman Seiji Carpenter Jenny Shore SpotlightJeff Hancock Sponsors Nicholas and Nancy Giampietro/ TheMichael ClaypoolBetter Half Julie Shore November 3, 5, and 6, 2011 Maryhas beenJo and designing Doug Basler and constructing Reyes costumes Holdings Margi Cole Scott Silberstein Ellenfor over Stone 20 years, Belic and his design company,Paul and -ishLinda, Gotskind Pamela Crutchfield Mark Shevitz and Amy Jacksic Robert and Sheryl Bellick Paul Gray and Hillary Curtis Jeannine Schutz Marlenewas formed Breslow-Blitstein in 2007. He has created Dedreacostumes Armour Gray Laura Dixon Jan Shurtz for and River Berle North Blitstein Dance Chicago, HubbardRachel Streetand David Grund Joan P Emery Patricia Sigurdson Julie Englander and Frank Hill Mary Smith Stefan Edlis and Gael Neeson Caryn and King Harris Inside/Out, Gus Giordano Dance Chicago, Patti Eylar Ron and Cindy Stein Larry and Marilyn Fields Bill and Vicki Hood Danceworks Chicago, Peter Carpenter, Molly Michael Estanich Andrew Suprenant Walter and Karla Cynthia Hunt and Ginger Farley and Robert Shapiro Nancy Watson Shanahan Goldschmidt Mad/Shak, Foundation and Lucky Plush Philip Rudolph Nancy P Genoar Amy Page Wilhelm JackProductions, and Sandra among Guthman many others. SusieHancock Karkomi is a and Joe Germuska Marian Wilkinson Gretchen and Jay Jordan Marvin Leavitt Jared Gerstenblatt Susanne and Richard Wren Kimfounding and Brad member Keywell of River North DanceAnne andChicago, John Kern Matthew and Kristin Glavin Lisa Wymore Roberthas danced M. and for Diane Hubbard v.S. Street Levy DanceLinda Chicago Kinzelberg Dan Goldman Jacob Yarrow and Family the Lyric Foundation Opera, and formerly directedRon and Fifi Levin Carrie Hanson Cheryl Yuen Courtesy Thank You Guidelines and Information