B Ry an Colle Y

BRYAN COLLEY www.kcstage.com JUNE 2010 1 Blog Notes http://kcstage.blogspot.com

Should Government Support Arts? communities and arts supporters who Designed for public arts leaders and advo- have made outstanding arts and cultural cates by the National Assembly of State contributions to Kansas and the nation. Arts Agencies, Why Should Government Awardees are nominated by members of Support the Arts? answers why the arts the public, selected by a panel and hon- are an essential public investment. The ored at a reception and ceremony in spring document includes research on numerous 2011 in Topeka. The deadline for nomina- economic, educational and civic benefits of tions is September 16 and can be made at investing in the arts to aid in arts advocacy. http://arts.ks.gov/gaa/index.shtml. Find out more at www.nasaa-arts.org/ COVER: Kansas City Fringe Festival artists Update on the Kauffman Center Advocacy/Advocacy-Tools/Why-Govern- band together to shoot a lipdub video in Jane Chu, president and CEO of the ment-Support/index.php. Crown Center. Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts, KC Ballet Raises $75K for library will deliver an update on the center at Top Billing Former dancers, board members and 7:15 a.m. Friday, June 4, at the Inter- All in One Take ...... 1 patrons of the Kansas City Ballet in the Continental Kansas City Hotel, 401 Ward 1960s and 1970s gathered on April 24 Parkway, Kansas City, MO. Chu will be a Notes to honor founder Tania Dokoudovsky. guest of the Rotary Club of the Kansas City Focus Film Festival Awards...... 3 The reunion was the highlight of a fund- Plaza. The meeting is open to the public. Short Film Festival...... 10 raising campaign created to name the There is a $15 fee for breakfast at the Cappie Awards ...... 12 library in the new Bolender Center after Rooftop of the InterContinental. For more Dokoudovsky. The campaign has raised information, visit www.kcplazarotary.org. Stand-Ins more than $75,000 for the library. Sup- Auditions...... 13 TYA Changes Season porters will have their names displayed Blog Notes...... 1 Theatre for Young America will present The on a plaque in the library. Donations Calendar ...... 6 Dinosaur Play by Steve and Kathy Hotch- Events...... 3 are still being collected for this naming ner for its opening show of the 2010-11 Film Clips...... 13 opportunity. Contact Alison Patterson at season. Harold and the Purple Crayon, Performances ...... 4 [email protected] or 816-931- which was to open the season, will be 2232 x1307. postponed until the following year. Theatre Cast of Characters Governor’s Arts Awards Nominees for Young America selected The Dinosaur Scott Bowling ...... Webmaster The Kansas Arts Commission (KAC) is Richard Buswell ...... Managing Editor Play because it complements the exhibit Bryan Colley ...... Graphic Designer now accepting nominations for the 2011 of Dinosaur’s Unearthed and the movie Angie Fiedler Sutton ...... Associate Editor Governor's Arts Awards. Each year the presentation Dinosaurs Alive 3-D currently Anna Jennings ...... Special Events Governor of Kansas and the KAC honor offered at Union Station. The Dinosaur Play Tricia Kyler Bowling...... Subscriber Rep artists, organizations, businesses, schools, runs October 12-November 6. Letters to the Editor ...... [email protected] Continued on page 11

KCVol. 12 • STAGENo. 8 • Issue 130 • June 2010 [email protected] • 816-361-2325 PO Box 410492 • Kansas City, Missouri 64141-0492 July Submission Deadline: June 10 www.kcstage.com © Copyright 2010 by KC Stage. All material contained in this publication 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 First Choice. R www.kcstage.com JUNE 2010 1 All in One Take by Bryan Colley

The problem with promotional videos is getting people I talked to Matt Connolly, who created a video for to watch them. After all, who wants to voluntarily watch the Fringe Festival last year. He said he was wondering a commercial, even if it’s for something entertaining what he was going to do for this year’s fringe, and this like the Kansas City Fringe Festival? sounded like the perfect project. All we needed to do I was blogging for KC Stage one day and saw an was figure out how. article in the Lawrence Journal-World about a “lipdub” Fringe Festival director Cheryl Kimmi talked to video that was shot in January at Lawrence High School. Rick Brown, and we were able to gain access to Crown I had seen videos like it before, but it was exciting to see Center on a Sunday morning before the mall opened. one made locally and the enthusiasm of the students That meant an 8:00 a.m. call time—not ideal for theatre was touching. It was a real community project. people but getting Crown Center was worth it. Then For those of you that don’t know what a lipdub it was a question of finding the song. We knew we video is, the best way to find out is to actually see wanted a local musician, preferably one connected to one. You can see Lawrence High School’s video here: the Fringe Festival. After exploring several possibilities, www.youtube.com/watch?v=3iBK9q8-9do. The idea we decided on Ry Kincaid, who offered to write a song of the lipdub video originally came from students at specifically for the video. Kincaid’s playNot Just for the Hochschule Furtwangen University in Germany, and Birds is being produced by Barstow High School at the they started a Web site at http://universitylipdub.com Fringe, and he makes an appearance in the video. inviting others to produce their own videos. There are With the song and venue settled, it was time to currently 44 featured on their Web site, and many more round up the artists. We weren’t sure if anyone would if you just search Youtube. be interested, and we knew it would take a lot of people The thing that makes the lipdub video special is that to make the project worthwhile. Luckily we were getting everything is done in one camera take. It takes consider- a lot of positive feedback from everyone we mentioned able group effort to pull it off, and it bridges the divide it to, so when the notice went out we were happy when between film and live performance. There are no camera dozens of people signed up in the first couple of days. cuts to cover up a mistake, and when things go wrong The project was going to happen. you have to start over back at the beginning. That’s We had roughly 70 artists and volunteers show up not a big deal for a four minute music video, but it’s at 8:00 a.m. on Sunday, May 23. All of the artists were incredible when taken to an epic scale, as it was done given lines from the song for lip syncing. Needless in the 2002 film The Russian Ark. to say, the artists brought their own creativty to the A short time after Lawrence High School shot their project, with elaborate costumes and props. We had a lipdub video, their rival Free State High School retaliated group of hula hoop dancers, two muppets, clowns, a with a lipdub video of their own, again reported in the fan dancer, a DJ, a roller derby girl, and a guy dressed Lawrence Journal-World. Adding to the challenge, every- as a slice of pizza. one learned their lines and choreography in reverse, so Craig Hietpas-Wilson was our camera operator, that the video had to be played backwards to sync up making a Herculean effort to capture all the action on with the music. It’s impressive that it worked as well queue without tripping up the escalators. After several as it did. abortive starts, we made it through four full runs before After watching these videos, I thought this would be we got a take we were happy with. a great way to help promote the Fringe Festival (where I can’t thank enough all the people who showed up I should confess that I’m debuting my new play Khan! that day to help us. Many of them spent most of the morn- the Musical.) It would allow Fringe performers to do a ing just waiting for things to happen, which is the nature group project, and it would be a video that everyone of filmmaking. Just like attending the Fringe Festival, would want to watch to see their performance in it. I felt the sense of a community of artists coming together Hopefully it will get passed around to all the perform- to support a greater cause. The video should be available ers friends as well. soon at www.kcfringe.org and on Youtube. R

“No one is asking, let alone demanding, that you write. The world is not waiting with bated breath for your article or book. Whether or not you get a single 2 KCSTAGE word on paper, the sun will rise, the earth will spin, the universe will expand. Writing is forever and always a choice — your choice.” ~ Beth Mende Conny www.kcstage.com JUNE 2010 3 Focus Film Festival Awards Events www.kcstage.com/events

Youth and filmmaking were show- Theatre for Young America* cased Sunday during a ceremony Focus Film Festival Winners Junie B. Jones Acting Workshop: Best Sci-Fi/Fantasy: “The Sci-Fi Movie” by Ellie Jun 21-25: 5 pm Mon-Fri for the fifth annual Lawrence High Berland, Megan Fleming, Zoey Hearn; Law- For 1st-3rd graders, June 21-25, from School Focus Film Festival Awards rence High School 5-7 pm. Barbara Park’s popular books Best Music Video: “Parody Me!” by Danny Neely, at Liberty Hall, 644 Mass. Organized provide the creative spirit and fun for a Cameron Volker; Shawnee Mission West dramatic week. Those wacky characters by Lawrence High School’s film and Best Original Music Video: “Stuntin’ Like My from Junie’s world – Cry Baby William, Caddy” by Danny Neely, Cameron Volker; media teacher Jeff Kuhr, the festi- Shawnee Mission West That Grace, Meanie Jim, Princess Lucille – come to life onstage. Culminating per- val received 92 submissions from Best Documentary: “Margaret Sanger” by Grace Bova, Phebe Meyers; Lawrence High School formances of scenes from the books is 6 14 area high schools. Best Experimental: “Not at Home” by Nikki pm on Friday. Tuition is $110. Season ticket Winners were selected by Walker; Lawrence High School holder or multiple student family discount Best Horror/Suspense (tie): “My Darling” by tuition is $99. Theatre for Young America, Lawrence filmmaker Patrick Rea, Hunter Matthews; Olathe Northwest High Wonderscope Children’s Museum, (816) School; and “Trapped” by Dan Carter, Gordy BlueCat Screenplay Competition Doyle; Lawrence High School 460-2083, www.tya.org founder Gordy Hoffman, Journal- Best Animation: “Calamity” by Brian Schwabauer, Laughing Out Loud, A Week Of Comic Kevin Sikes; Shawnee Mission South World entertainment editor Jon Best Comedy: “Shortz” by Sean Cunningham, Improvisation: Jun 7-11: 7 pm Mon-Fri Improv workshop for 4th-6th graders, June Niccum and Kansas University Danny Neely, Cameron Volker; Shawnee Mission West 7-11, from 7-9 pm. Learn the principles Department of Film and Media Best Drama: “Janus” by Kyler Thomann; Law- of improvising with games and improv Studies chair Tamara Falicov. rence High School exercises to help actors stay focused, Best Editing: “My Shadow” by Buffy Faircloth; communicate clearly, think on your feet, Major category winners received Lawrence High School Best Cinematography: “Leap” by Luke and be funny doing it! Your original, one a gold reel, and technical winners McDaneld; Lawrence High School of a kind improv show for your fans will a silver. Prizes awarded included Best Story: “I Noticed” by Kyle Stone; Blue Valley be at 8 pm on Friday. Tuition is $110. West For season ticket holders or for multiple Adobe Premiere Pro CS 4 software, Fan Favorite: “Regarding Anrai” by Henry Chap- student enrollment family discount, the selections from the Criterion Col- man, Gordy Doyle, Logan Strout; Lawrence tuition is $99. Theatre for Young America, High School Wonderscope Children’s Museum, (816) lection, and films by Palm Pictures Best in Show: “Calamity” by Brian Schwabauer, Kevin Sikes; Shawnee Mission South 460-2083, www.tya.org and New Video Group. R Percy Jackson & The Olympians Acting Workshop: Jun 21-25: 7 pm Mon-Fri For 4th-6th graders. June 21-25, from 7-9 pm. In this workshop based on the best-selling book series by Rick Rioran, acting students dramatize the adventures of a modern day descendant of a Greek god as he meets characters from Greek mythology. The Friday culminating performance is at 8 pm on June 25. Tuition is $110. Season ticket holders or multiple student enrollment family discount tuition price is $99. Theatre for Young America, Wonderscope Children’s Museum, (816) 460-2083, www.tya.org Winnie The Pooh Acting Workshop: Jun 7-11: 5 pm Mon-Fri For preschoolers-kindergartners, at Won- derscope Children’s Museum in Kansas City June 7-11, 5-7 pm. The stories of Pooh- Bear, Eeyore, Owl, Piglet, Kanga and Roo provide the theme for this dramatic workshop. Pooh stories will be performed for family and friends at 6 pm on Friday. Tuition $110 or $99 for multiple student or season ticket-holder enrollments. Theatre for Young America, Wonderscope Children’s Museum, (816) 460-2083, www.tya.org R

2 KCSTAGE www.kcstage.com JUNE 2010 3 Performances www.kcstage.com/performances Alcott Arts Center* Pinocchio by Michele L. Vacca: MCCROSKEY Jun 4-13: 7 pm Fri-Sat; 2 pm Sun

Pinocchio is a classic lesson in honesty, ANN being a true friend and staying on the right “path” in life. Directed by Taylor Whitt. Fea- turing Ryan Emmons, Tia Arians, Jamie Jones, Jessica Williams, Mosha Clyma, Carley Whitt, Finoula Emmon, and Dan Kavanaugh. $10 adults, $6 children and senior citizens. Alcott Arts Center Theatre, 180 S 18th St, KCK, (913) 233-ARTS, www.alcottartscenter.org June Second Saturday: Jun 12: 6 pm Sat The Alcott’s June free Second Saturday event presents KCK Arts Network Art Exposition with a variety of artist booths with artwork for sale. Refreshments will be available for purchase. As always, there’s also the open jam, so bring your instrument and join in. Also catch a performance of the children’s production, “Pinocchio” for $10 (adults) or $6 (children & senior citizens). Alcott Arts Center Theatre, 180 S 18th St, (913) 233-2787, www.alcottartscenter.org Theatrix Fashion Show:

Jun 18: 7:30 pm Fri LEFT TO RIGHT: Samantha Agron and Amy Arnott appear in CenterSeason Theatre’s A combination of theatre costumes, music, Wicked, playing Jun 3-13. and fun, Theatrix is a fundraiser for the Center with some style! Come support beach cottage on North Carolina’s Outer of these four special men, where “little a good cause and have fun while you Banks to laugh, catch up, and meddle in things” sometimes become momentous, do it: tickets are $10 in advance, $15 each other’s lives. The Dixie Swim Club are moments of great poignancy reminding at the door for a night of food, fun, and focuses on four of those weekends over us that the handicapped, like the rest of fashion. There’s no business like show a span of 33 years and demonstrates the us, want only to love and laugh and find business: see costumes in a new way power of teamwork and the strength of some meaning and purpose in the brief with this fashion show. Alcott Arts Center love. A hilarious and touching comedy time that they are allotted on this earth. Theatre, 180 S 18th St, (913) 233-2787, about friendships that last forever. $20 Directed by Nancy Eppert. Featuring Eric www.alcottartscenter.org - $35 depending on day and time of per- Van Horn, Anthony Eldridge, Nathan Stock, formance. American Heartland Theatre, Sean Leistico, Matt Katzenmeier, Stanley American Heartland Theatre 2450 Grand Blvd, (816) 842-9999, Ross, Autumn Massiello, Karla Fennick, The Dixie Swim Club by Jessie Jones, www.ahtkc.com A and Jeremy Riggs. $15, seniors $12, Nicholas Hope, and Jamie Wooten: students $7, 10 or more $10. The Barn May 7-Jun 20: 8 pm Fri-Sat; 7:30 pm Players, 6219 Martway St, Mission, (913) The Barn Players, Inc.* 432-9100, www.thebarnplayers.org Sun, Tue-Thr; 1 pm Wed; 4 pm Sat; The Boys Next Door by Tom Griffin: 2 pm Sun Jun 4-20: 7:30 pm Fri-Sat; 2 pm Sun Tony Awards Night: Jun 13: 6 pm Sun Five Southern women, whose friendship The place is a communal residence in a Come join The Barn for a live broadcast began on a college swim team, set aside New England city, where four mentally of The Tony Awards from Radio City Music a long weekend each year to recharge handicapped men live under the supervi- Hall in New York City! The Barn Players, that friendship. Free from men, kids, and sion of a young social worker named Jack. 6219 Martway St, (913) 432-9100, jobs, they meet every August at the same Mingled with scenes from the daily lives www.thebarnplayers.org

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

4 KCSTAGE “All our knowledge merely helps us to die a more painful death than animals that know nothing.” ~ Maurice Maeterlinck www.kcstage.com JUNE 2010 5 u Performances

Bell Road Barn Players* THEATRE

And Then There Were None by Agatha Christie: Jun 4-11: 8 pm Fri-Sat Ten guests arrive at the home of Mr. U.N. EGADS Owen on a remote island, but he’s left his requests on a record. Each guest is accused of a murder. The boat to the mainland arrives on Monday morning. They are forced to stay on the island with no phone and no way off. The murderer seizes the opportunity to murder his victims one by one. Directed by Nino Casisi. Fea- turing Ben Baellow, Kerri Brock, Deborah Buckner, Kevin Elmore, Sam Gershman, Cress Hewitt, David Meacham, Mike Nemeth, Chris Teters, Mick Turpini, and Cassandra Whitney. adult $15; under 12 $10; senior $14; & group $12. Park University Theater, 8500 Northwest River Park Drive, Parkville, (816) 587-0218, www.bellroadbarn.com

CenterSeason Theatre Celebration in Song: The Wizard of Wicked, the Music of Stephen Schwartz: Jun 3-13: 7:30 pm Sat-Sun, Thr; 2 pm Sun No one can tell a story through song quite The cast of Egads! Eating Raoul, playing at the Off Center Theatre Jun 4-Jul 3. like composer Stephen Schwartz. This musical genius is behind such theatrical musical Chestnut Fine Arts Center & Theatre, 234 The Coterie Theatre hits as Wicked, Pippin, Godspell and Chil- N Chestnut St, Olathe, (913) 764-2121, Lucky Duck by Henry Kreger, Bill Russell, dren of Eden, as well as movie scores for chestnutfinearts.com Bill Russell, & Jeffey Hatcher: Jun 22- Disney films Pocahontas and Prince of Aug 8: 11 am, 1:30 pm Tue-Fri; 2 pm Egypt. His music continues to be special as Sat-Sun; 7 pm Fri; 3 pm Sun Schwartz woos his audience with melodic ComedyCity* Chaos Theatre Viewed as an odd duck by her fam- melodies and poignant lyrics bringing the ily, homely songbird Serena runs away characters in his musicals to life. Schwartz’ 2 Much Duck: Jun 5-26: 10 pm Sat ComedyCity’s no holds barred fast paced from her fowl days of barnyard mock- music will wash over you and warm your ery to seek her special destiny-success heart. Directed by Mark Swezey, Kristi improv show ... this one is the one not suitable for the whole family. 18 and over as a supermodel swan. As her journey Mitchell, and Ann McCroskey. $19, $13, progresses, she discovers that beauty is $10. The Lewis and Shirley White Theatre, only please – as it’s more mature material – well, more immature probably, but only feather deep, and she must find her Jewish Community Center, Overland Park, own voice to succeed. Directed by Jeff (913) 327-8054, www.jcckc.org certainly not for kids, grandmas, church groups, or really uptight folk. No brown Church. Adults $15; youth, student, or bag foul. No pre-written scripts. No telling senior: $10. The Coterie Theatre, 2450 Chestnut Fine Arts Theatre what might happen. $12. ComedyC- Grand Blvd, Ste 144, (816) 474-6552, Leading Men of Broadway: May 20- ity, 817 Westport Rd, (816) 842-2744, www.coterietheatre.org Jun 20: 8 pm Thr-Sat; 2 pm Sun www.comedycity.cc A Leading Men of Broadway, the music is Egads Theatre Company* extraordinary, the playing is keen, and the Kansas City’s Original Comedy Sports: May 17-Oct 30: 7:30 pm Fri-Sat Eating Raoul: The Musical by Paul Bartel, tunes are appealing. Eight men pay tribute Boyd Graham, and Jed Feuer: Jun 4- to Broadway’s greatest leading men with Competitive improvised humor played like a sporting event complete with Astroturf, Jul 3: 8 pm Fri-Sat, Mon; 7 pm Sun; music by Andrew Lloyd Webber, Stephen 11 pm Sat Sondheim, and Rodgers & Hammerstein. the national anthem, referee, penalties, and fouls. Kansas City’s longest running Meet the Blands. They're a perfectly pla- You’ll hear “Luck Be A Lady”, “The Impos- tonic couple hopin' to open a restaurant sible Dream”, “There is Nothing Like a comedy show, running non-stop since 1987. It’s family appropriate humor, far from the undesirables of 1960s L.A. To Dame”, and many more! Directed by Brad achieve their dream, they'll need money. To Zimmerman. Featuring Jay Coombes, suitable for all ages. $13 per show. ComedyCity located in the Westport Flea make money, they'll "bop" off and rob as Curt Crespino, Cary Mock, Mark Mur- many sex perverts as possible. Meet Raoul. phy, Jason Murray, and Ken Koval. $21, Market, 817 Westport Rd, (816) 842- discounts for seniors, children, & groups. 2744, www.comedycity.cc Continued on page 8

4 KCSTAGE www.kcstage.com JUNE 2010 5 KCSTAGE JUNE 2010 *Affiliate Theatre 30 MON 1 TUE 4 FRI 5 SAT 6 SUN NO PERFORMANCES Becky’s New Car • New Theatre Restaurant Becky’s New Car • New Theatre Restaurant Becky’s New Car • New Theatre Restaurant Becky’s New Car • New Theatre Restaurant The Dixie Swim Club • American Heartland Theatre The Boys Next Door • The Barn Players, Inc.* The Boys Next Door • The Barn Players, Inc.* The Boys Next Door • The Barn Players, Inc.* Comedy Sports • ComedyCity* Celebration in Song: The Wizard of Wicked, the Music Celebration in Song: The Wizard of Wicked, the Music The Dixie Swim Club • American Heartland Theatre of Stephen Schwartz • CenterSeason Theatre of Stephen Schwartz • CenterSeason Theatre 2 WED 3 THU The Encore Players on Stage • Theatre Atchison Comedy Sports • ComedyCity* The Dixie Swim Club • American Heartland Theatre Becky’s New Car • New Theatre Restaurant Becky’s New Car • New Theatre Restaurant Laughter on the 23rd Floor • Topeka Civic Theatre The Dixie Swim Club • American Heartland Theatre Drowsy Chaperone • Music Theatre for Young People The Dixie Swim Club • American Heartland Theatre Celebration in Song: The Wizard of Wicked, the Music Leading Men of Broadway • Chestnut Fine Arts Drowsy Chaperone • Music Theatre for Young People The Encore Players on Stage • Theatre Atchison of Stephen Schwartz • CenterSeason Theatre Theatre The Encore Players on Stage • Theatre Atchison Leading Men of Broadway • Chestnut Fine Arts The Dixie Swim Club • American Heartland Theatre Light in the Piazza • Metropolitan Ensemble Theatre Laughter on the 23rd Floor • Topeka Civic Theatre Theatre Laughter on the 23rd Floor • Topeka Civic Theatre Murder on the Wrong Side of the Tracks • The Leading Men of Broadway • Chestnut Fine Arts Light in the Piazza • Metropolitan Ensemble Theatre Leading Men of Broadway • Chestnut Fine Arts Mystery Train Theatre Pinocchio • Alcott Arts Center* Theatre Pinocchio • Alcott Arts Center* Light in the Piazza • Metropolitan Ensemble Theatre Light in the Piazza • Metropolitan Ensemble Theatre The Shape of Things • She&Her Productions* Murder on the Wrong Side of the Tracks • The Murder on the Wrong Side of the Tracks • The Mystery Train Mystery Train Pinocchio • Alcott Arts Center* The Shape of Things • She&Her Productions* The Shape of Things • She&Her Productions*

7 MON 8 TUE 11 FRI 12 SAT 13 SUN The Shape of Things • She&Her Productions* The Dixie Swim Club • American Heartland Theatre Are We There Yet? • Emporia State University Are We There Yet? • Emporia State University The Boys Next Door • The Barn Players, Inc.* The Boys Next Door • The Barn Players, Inc.* BareTV. The Improvised Talk Show. • The Trip Fives Celebration in Song: The Wizard of Wicked, the Music Comedy Sports • ComedyCity* The Boys Next Door • The Barn Players, Inc.* of Stephen Schwartz • CenterSeason Theatre 9 WED 10 THU Curtains • Lawrence Community Theatre Celebration in Song: The Wizard of Wicked, the Music Curtains • Lawrence Community Theatre Are We There Yet? • Emporia State University Are We There Yet? • Emporia State University The Dixie Swim Club • American Heartland Theatre of Stephen Schwartz • CenterSeason Theatre The Dixie Swim Club • American Heartland Theatre The Dixie Swim Club • American Heartland Theatre Celebration in Song: The Wizard of Wicked, the Music The Encore Players on Stage • Theatre Atchison Comedy Sports • ComedyCity* The Encore Players on Stage • Theatre Atchison of Stephen Schwartz • CenterSeason Theatre Footloose • Kiwanis Club of Excelsior Springs Curtains • Lawrence Community Theatre Go West, Young Man • Heartland Men’s Chorus* The Dixie Swim Club • American Heartland Theatre Jesus Christ Superstar • The Theatre in the Park The Dixie Swim Club • American Heartland Theatre Jesus Christ Superstar • The Theatre in the Park Laughter on the 23rd Floor • Topeka Civic Theatre Laughter on the 23rd Floor • Topeka Civic Theatre The Encore Players on Stage • Theatre Atchison Laughter on the 23rd Floor • Topeka Civic Theatre Leading Men of Broadway • Chestnut Fine Arts Leading Men of Broadway • Chestnut Fine Arts Footloose • Kiwanis Club of Excelsior Springs Leading Men of Broadway • Chestnut Fine Arts Theatre Theatre Go West, Young Man • Heartland Men’s Chorus* Theatre The Shape of Things • She&Her Productions* Pinocchio • Alcott Arts Center* Jesus Christ Superstar • The Theatre in the Park Pinocchio • Alcott Arts Center* Sophia’s Adventures • Imago Dei: Arts* The Shape of Things • She&Her Productions* Laughter on the 23rd Floor • Topeka Civic Theatre Souvenir • Quality Hill Playhouse Sophia’s Adventures • Imago Dei: Arts* Leading Men of Broadway • Chestnut Fine Arts Souvenir • Quality Hill Playhouse Theatre Pinocchio • Alcott Arts Center* The Shape of Things • She&Her Productions* Sophia’s Adventures • Imago Dei: Arts* Souvenir • Quality Hill Playhouse

14 MON 15 TUE 18 FRI 19 SAT 20 SUN Souvenir • Quality Hill Playhouse The Dixie Swim Club • American Heartland Theatre Comedy Sports • ComedyCity* The Boys Next Door • The Barn Players, Inc.* The Boys Next Door • The Barn Players, Inc.* Robin Hood • Theatre for Young America* Curtains • Lawrence Community Theatre Comedy Sports • ComedyCity* Curtains • Lawrence Community Theatre The Dixie Swim Club • American Heartland Theatre Curtains • Lawrence Community Theatre The Dixie Swim Club • American Heartland Theatre The Gin Game • Martin Tanner Productions The Dixie Swim Club • American Heartland Theatre Footloose • Kiwanis Club of Excelsior Springs Jesus Christ Superstar • The Theatre in the Park Footloose • Kiwanis Club of Excelsior Springs The Gin Game • Martin Tanner Productions Laughter on the 23rd Floor • Topeka Civic Theatre The Gin Game • Martin Tanner Productions Jesus Christ Superstar • The Theatre in the Park

Leading Men of Broadway • Chestnut Fine Arts Jesus Christ Superstar • The Theatre in the Park Leading Men of Broadway • Chestnut Fine Arts 16 WED 17 THU Theatre Laughter on the 23rd Floor • Topeka Civic Theatre Theatre The Dixie Swim Club • American Heartland Theatre Curtains • Lawrence Community Theatre Robin Hood • Theatre for Young America* Leading Men of Broadway • Chestnut Fine Arts Laughter on the 23rd Floor • Topeka Civic Theatre The Dixie Swim Club • American Heartland Theatre Souvenir • Quality Hill Playhouse Theatre Robin Hood • Theatre for Young America* The Gin Game • Martin Tanner Productions Robin Hood • Theatre for Young America* Souvenir • Quality Hill Playhouse Jesus Christ Superstar • The Theatre in the Park Souvenir • Quality Hill Playhouse Laughter on the 23rd Floor • Topeka Civic Theatre Treasure Island • Puppetry Arts Institute Leading Men of Broadway • Chestnut Fine Arts Theatre Robin Hood • Theatre for Young America* Souvenir • Quality Hill Playhouse 14 MON 15 TUE 18 FRI 19 SAT 20 SUN Souvenir • Quality Hill Playhouse The Dixie Swim Club • American Heartland Theatre Comedy Sports • ComedyCity* The Boys Next Door • The Barn Players, Inc.* The Boys Next Door • The Barn Players, Inc.* Robin Hood • Theatre for Young America* Curtains • Lawrence Community Theatre Comedy Sports • ComedyCity* Curtains • Lawrence Community Theatre The Dixie Swim Club • American Heartland Theatre Curtains • Lawrence Community Theatre The Dixie Swim Club • American Heartland Theatre The Gin Game • Martin Tanner Productions The Dixie Swim Club • American Heartland Theatre Footloose • Kiwanis Club of Excelsior Springs Jesus Christ Superstar • The Theatre in the Park Footloose • Kiwanis Club of Excelsior Springs The Gin Game • Martin Tanner Productions Laughter on the 23rd Floor • Topeka Civic Theatre The Gin Game • Martin Tanner Productions Jesus Christ Superstar • The Theatre in the Park

21 MON 22 TUE 25 FRI 26 SAT 27 SUN The Gin Game • Martin Tanner Productions Little House on the Prairie, The Musical • Starlight Annie • The Theatre in the Park Annie • The Theatre in the Park Annie • The Theatre in the Park Theatre Association Comedy Sports • ComedyCity* Comedy Sports • ComedyCity* Curtains • Lawrence Community Theatre Lucky Duck • The Coterie Theatre Curtains • Lawrence Community Theatre Curtains • Lawrence Community Theatre The Gin Game • Martin Tanner Productions Robin Hood • Theatre for Young America* The Gin Game • Martin Tanner Productions The Gin Game • Martin Tanner Productions Little House on the Prairie, The Musical • Starlight Little House on the Prairie, The Musical • Starlight Little House on the Prairie, The Musical • Starlight Theatre Association Theatre Association Theatre Association Lucky Duck • The Coterie Theatre 23 WED 24 THU Lucky Duck • The Coterie Theatre Lucky Duck • The Coterie Theatre The Pursuit of Happiness • Topeka Civic Theatre Little House on the Prairie, The Musical • Starlight Curtains • Lawrence Community Theatre On Froggy Mountain • Emporia State University On Froggy Mountain • Emporia State University Theatre Association The Gin Game • Martin Tanner Productions The Pursuit of Happiness • Topeka Civic Theatre The Pursuit of Happiness • Topeka Civic Theatre Lucky Duck • The Coterie Theatre Little House on the Prairie, The Musical • Starlight Robin Hood • Theatre for Young America* Robin Hood • Theatre for Young America* On Froggy Mountain • Emporia State University Theatre Association Robin Hood • Theatre for Young America* Lucky Duck • The Coterie Theatre On Froggy Mountain • Emporia State University Robin Hood • Theatre for Young America*

28 MON 29 TUE 2 FRI 3 SAT 4 SUN NO PERFORMANCES Lucky Duck • The Coterie Theatre Annie • The Theatre in the Park Annie • The Theatre in the Park Lucky Duck • The Coterie Theatre Robin Hood • Theatre for Young America* Comedy Sports • ComedyCity* Comedy Sports • ComedyCity* Lucky Duck • The Coterie Theatre Lucky Duck • The Coterie Theatre The Pursuit of Happiness • Topeka Civic Theatre The Pursuit of Happiness • Topeka Civic Theatre 30 WED 1 THU Robin Hood • Theatre for Young America* Robin Hood • Theatre for Young America* Lucky Duck • The Coterie Theatre Annie • The Theatre in the Park Robin Hood • Theatre for Young America* Lucky Duck • The Coterie Theatre Robin Hood • Theatre for Young America*

AUDITIONS MAY 31-JUN 1 • The Mystery Train JUN 3 • Puppetry Arts Institute JUN 5-6 • Alcott Arts Center JUN 7 • Topeka Civic Theatre & Academy JUN 7-9 • River City Community Players JUN 10-16 • Olathe Community Theatre Association

*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. Don’t forget to rate the show you see online! u Performances continued from page 5 He's their superintendant, and he wants a program celebrating Americana. More Lawrence Community Theatre in on the deal (and into Mary's pants). than 200 singers will present diverse music Curtains by Rupert Holmes, Peter Stone, Unable to resist the advances of this sexy from America’s rich history, highlighting John Kander, and Fred Ebb: Jun 11-27: Mexican, Mary must choose between her classic American composers. $15 - $30. 7:30 pm Thr-Sat; 2:30 pm Sun Latin lover and her roly-poly faithful foodie Folly Theater, 300 W 12th St, (816) 931- A Tony Award winner with 9 Tony nomi- hubby. Who would you "bop"? Directed by 3338, www.hmckc.org nations! The Associated Press called it Steven Eubank, music directed by Daniel “musical comedy heaven!” There’s a Doss, choreography by Tiffany Powell. Fea- murder in the cast-anyone could have done turing Molly Denninghoff, Dana Nicholson, Imago Dei: Arts* Sophia’s Adventures by Lori Lee Triplett: it! A Boston police detective who cares as Pancho Villegas, Chioma Anyanwu, Eric Jun 10-12: 2 pm, 7 pm Thr-Sat much for musical theatre as justice comes Harbin, Jonathan Hornyak, Price Mes- Sophia the black dog plays in her backyard to investigate. Will he find the killer? Will he sick, Ethan Miller, Ashley Otis, Emily and meets the Grumpy Goldfish and the save the show? Will love prevail? Directed Shackelford, and Pamela Todd. $20 for Gentle Giant. Through her interactions by Jeff Montague, Music Director: Mary center; $15 for sides; $12.50 for student with other creatures she learns about tol- Baker, Choreographer: Barb Wasson. rush. Off Center Theatre in Crown Cen- erance and adopted family. Directed by Lawrence Community Theatre, 1501 New ter, 2450 Grand Blvd, (816) 842-9999, Lori Lee Triplett. $12.50; $10 for groups Hampshire St, Lawrence, (785) 843-7469, egadstheatre.com A of 4 or more. Granada Theatre, 1015 theatrelawrence.com Minnesota Ave, KCK, (913) 233-0266, Emporia State University Theatre www.imagodeiarts.org C Martin Tanner Productions Are We There Yet? by James Hindman, The Gin Game by D. L. Coburn: Jun 17- Ray Roderick, Cheryl Stern, & John 27: 7:30 pm Thr-Sat, Mon; 2 pm Sun Glaudini: Jun 9-12: 7:30 pm Wed-Sat Kacico Dance* Little Red Riding Hood: A Newfangled Weller Martin plays solitaire on the porch A roller coaster ride through the lives Prairie Tale by Lisa Campbell Ernst: of his nursing home each day. Then Fonsia of modern American families, including Jun 24: 7 pm Thr Dorsey arrives, a friendship grows and they everything from hysterical family car trips A family-friendly show intended for a play gin rummy every day, relating stories and mothers praying for hits at their sons’ multigenerational audience! Through of their lives as they play. The life details baseball games, to fathers sitting through original choreography, live music, bright they share become weapons in an increas- ballet lessons and the joy of sex after 60. costumes, props, and talented professional ingly competitive game ... of cards ... or This lively musical portrays the love and dancers, we will bring the traditional Little life? Directed by Andy Garrison. Featuring challenges of the old adage, “You can Red Riding Hood story to life ...with a twist! Allan Hazlett and Bonnie Hanson. $10 - pick your friends but you can’t pick your Grandparents bring your grandchildren to $20. Metropolitan Ensemble Theatre, family.” One thing is for sure, you will this unforgettable performance and stick 3614 Main St A definitely relate to this family musical and around for a post-show discussion with “enjoy the ride!” Directed by Jim and Lindy the Kacico dancers! Directed by Kacico Bartruff. $5-$10. Karl C. Bruder Theatre, Metropolitan Ensemble Theatre Dance Company. $5. Longview Cultural King Hall, Emporia, (620) 341-6378, The Light in the Piazza by Craig Lucas Arts Center, 500 SW Longview Rd, (816) www.emporia.edu/theatre and Adam Guettel: May 20-Jun 6: 569-5206, www.kacicodance.org 7:30 pm Thr-Sat; 2 pm Sun On Froggy Mountain: Set in Florence and Rome, the Kansas Jun 23-26: 7:30 pm Wed-Sat City musical premiere The Light in the A city frog and a country frog set out one Kiwanis Club of Excelsior Springs Footloose by Dean Pitchford & Walter Piazza tells the story of Clara Johnson, day to see the world. Along the way, they Bobbie: Jun 11-20: 7:30 pm Fri-Sat; an American tourist who meets and falls encounter pirates and hedgehogs, foolish 2 pm Sun for a young Italian man. Clara’s mother boys and ancient gods, a wily coyote and When Ren and his mother move from learns of the affair and vigorously opposes a kind fisherman. Each has a tale to tell. Chicago to a small farming town, Ren is it for reasons which only gradually become Eventually the two frogs meet at the summit prepared for the adjustment period at his known. Lush, beautiful and courageous, of Froggy Mountain. After several moments new high school, but not the rigorous local The Light on the Piazza considers love as of confusion both decide that they don’t edicts, including a ban on dancing instituted a many flavored thing. Directed by John need to travel any further because where by the local preacher, determined to exercise Staniunas. $25. Metropolitan Ensemble they are headed looks just like where the control over the town’s youth that he Theatre, 3604 Main St, (816) 569-3226, they’ve been. Directed by Robb Rossi & cannot command in his own home. With an www.metkc.org A Jim Bartruff. $5-$10. Karl C. Bruder The- Oscar and Tony-nominated top 40 score, atre, King Hall, Emporia, (620) 341-6378, Footloose celebrates the wisdom of listening www.emporia.edu/theatre C Music Theatre for Young People to young people, and guiding them with a The Drowsy Chaperone by Lambert, warm heart and an open mind. Director: Morrison, Martin, and McKellar: Heartland Men’s Chorus* Bill Christie; Musical Director: Wayne Day. Jun 5-6: 7:30 pm Sat; 2:30 pm Sun Go West, Young Man: Individuals $10; children & seniors $8; Directed by Cary Danielson Pandzik. $15 Jun 12-13: 8 pm Sat-Sun groups $6. Excelsior Springs Performing adult; $10 student. Goppert Theatre, The west coast meets the Midwest as Port- Arts Center, 612 Tiger Dr, Excelsior Springs, Avila University, 11901 Wornall Road, land Gay Men’s Chorus joins HMC for (816) 630-1777, www.eskiwanis.org (913) 341-8156, www.mtyp.org

8 KCSTAGE “A community is like a ship; everyone ought to be prepared to take the helm.” ~ Henrik Ibsen www.kcstage.com JUNE 2010 9 u Performances

Starlight Theatre Association ROSEGG

Little House on the Prairie, The Musical: Jun 22-27: 8 pm Tue-Sun CAROL The beloved literary series Little House on the Prairie takes on a new frontier in this uplifting new musical that stars Melissa Gilbert (who we embraced as “Laura” in the much-loved television series) as “Ma”. Recommended for the entire family, Little House on the Prairie, The Musical explores the joys and sorrows of pioneer families during the settlement of America’s prairie. $10 - $85. Starlight Theatre, 4600 Starlight Rd, (816) 363- 7827, www.kcstarlight.com

The Theatre in the Park Annie by Thomas Meehan, Charles Strouse, and Martin Charnin: Jun 25- The cast of Little House on the Prairie: the Musical at Starlight Jun 22-27. Jul 3: 8:30 pm Thr-Sun Annie is a spunky Depression-era orphan The Mystery Train of age. Puppetry Arts Institute, 11025 E determined to find her parents, who Murder on the Wrong Side of the Tracks Winner Rd, Independence, (816) 833- abandoned her years ago on the door- by Wendy Thompson: Apr 16-Jun 5: 9777, www.hazelle.org step of a New York City Orphanage run 7 pm Thr-Sat by the cruel, embittered Miss Hannigan. In adventure after fun-filled adventure, Annie Interactive murder mystery dinner theatre Quality Hill Playhouse set in 1930 Kansas City. Directed by Wendy foils Miss Hannigan’s evil machinations, Souvenir: Jun 11-19: 1 pm Thr; 8 pm befriends President Franklin Delano Roos- Thompson. $54-$64. Prime Rib Grill by Wed-Mon; 3 pm Sun the Hereford House, 100 E 20th St, (816) evelt and finds a new family and home in Florence Foster Jenkins wanted so much billionaire Oliver Warbucks, his personal 813-9654, A to make it to Broadway, and she finally secretary Grace Farrell and a lovable did – by renting out Carnegie Hall and mutt named Sandy. Directed by Tammy New Theatre Restaurant giving recitals that became legendary for Ruder. $8 adults, $6 children, age 3 and Becky’s New Car by Steven Dietz: her over-the-top (and under-the-pitch) per- under free. The Theatre in the Park, 7710 Apr 15-Jun 6: 12 pm Sun, Wed; 6 pm formances. This show takes a humorous Renner Rd, Shawnee, (913) 312-8841, Tue-Sun look at the true meaning of music and the www.theatreinthepark.org A comedy about new cars, new romances art of performing. Directed by Rick Truman. and neuroses. Directed by Richard Car- $26 adults; $24 students/seniors. Quality Jesus Christ Superstar by Tim Rice rothers. Featuring Jan Chapman, John Hill Playhouse, 303 W 10th St., (816) 421- and Andrew Lloyd Webber: Jun 11-20: Davidson, Kimberly King, Jim Korinke, Todd 1700, www.QualityHillPlayhouse.com 8:30 pm Thr-Sun Lanker, Ashlee LaPine, and Craig Benton. This rock opera was created as a concept New Theatre Restaurant, 9229 Foster St, album at the end of the turbulent ‘60s. She&Her Productions* Jesus’ meteor-like rise in renown provides Overland Park, www.newtheatre.com A The Shape of Things by Neil Labute: Puppetry Arts Institute a parallel to contemporary celebrity wor- Jun 3-12: 8 pm Thr-Sat, Mon ship. Christ’s final days are dramatized Central themes in The Shape of Things are with emotional intensity, thought-provoking Wit & Whimsy Puppets questions on the nature of art, psychopa- edge and explosive theatricality. Propelled Treasure Island: Jun 19: 2 pm, thy and intimacy, explorations of love, by a stirring score, by turns driving and 11 am Sat and people’s willingness to do things for majestic, satirical and tender, Jesus Christ The Puppetry Arts Institute proudly presents love. It is set in a small university town in Superstar illuminates the transcendent this classic tale of adventure on the high the American Midwest and centers on the power of the human spirit. Directed by seas! Performed by Emma McLean and lives of four young students who become Phil Kinen. $8 adults, $6 children, age 3 two assistant puppeteers, the tale of Jim emotionally and romantically involved with and under free. The Theatre in the Park, Hawkins and Long John Silver unfolds. First each other. Directed by Tiffany Garrison- 7710 Renner Rd, Shawnee, (913) 312- published as a book in 1883, Treasure Schweigert. Featuring Jennifer Coville, 8841, www.theatreinthepark.org Island is an adventure novel by Robert Louis Andy Perkins, Jeff Newman, and Kristen Stevenson, narrating a tale of pirates and Janell Sullivan. $8 Students $12 General buried gold. The marionettes used in this public. Emerald Building, 1323 Union, show were created by Sara Goldsmith in (816) 405-9200, sheandherproductions 1937, and donated to the Puppetry Arts @gmail.com A Institute in 2008. $5 per person regardless Continued on page 10

8 KCSTAGE www.kcstage.com JUNE 2010 9 u Performances Short Film Festival continued from page 9

Theatre Atchison But Jodi has other ideas. She completes The Lawrence Arts Center her college application but doesn’t send it The Encore Players on Stage: announced winners of the second Jun 4-13: 8 pm Fri-Sat; 2 pm Sun in. Topeka Civic Theatre & Academy, 3028 Theatre Atchison’s Encore Players SW 8th Ave, Topeka, (785) 357-5211, annual Short Film Festival held group will take you back to the 1930s www.topekacivictheatre.com A on May 8. “Misfortune Smiles and ‘40s with a collection of old-time and “Never Trust a Yeti” will be radio shows compiled into a full-length The Trip Fives screened along with Kevin Will- production, complete with authentic cos- BareTV. The Improvised Talk Show: tuming and classic radio sound effects. Jun 12: 8 pm Sat mott’s “The Only Good Indian” Directed by Chuck Pulliam. $10 adults; As part of Improv Comedy on “Second and Marlo Angell and Peter Jasso’s $6 students. Theatre Atchison, 401 Saturdays” at the Westport Coffeehouse Santa Fe St, Atchison, (913) 367-7469, Theatre. The cast will take one audience “Mariachi Estrella” June 4 at Lac’s www.theatreatchison.org suggestion and create an improvised Film Intensive. R late-night talk show, complete with host Theatre for Young America* monologues, guests, and live music. Prior Robin Hood: Jun 25-Jul 3: 12 pm Thr- to the actual show, performers/writers Fri; 10 am Tue-Fri; 7 pm Fri; 2 pm Sat will develop characters in front of the Short Film Festival Winners Set in the wilderness of Sherwood Forest, a studio audience. Featuring Jared Brus- Best of Show, Best Directing (Patrick Rea), band of “merry men” lie in wait for wealthy tad, Ed Doris, and Darrell Keyhill. $10. Best Acting and Best Screenplay (Patrick Westport Coffeehouse Theatre, 4010 Rea and Jon Niccum): “Misfortune Smiles,” men to pass. Once fallen upon by this by Patrick Rea band, the rich are robbed of their posses- Pennsylvania Ave, (913) 375-5168, Youth Best of Show and Best Animation: sions. Led by Robin Hood, the robbers seek www.thetripfives.com A “Never Trust A Yet,” by Jai Strecker no profit from their bounty. Instead they Best Comedy: “Retreat,” by Grant Babbit distribute it among the poor. The corrupt University of Central Missouri* Best Cinematography: “Hunter’s Moon,” by Sheriff of Nottingham, who is responsible Jeremy Osbern I Love You, You're Perfect, Now Change Best Drama: “Pulse,” by Jordan Krause for taxing and oppressing the poor beyond by Joe DiPietro and Jimmy Roberts: measure, vows Robin Hood and his gang Best Horror: “Critical Mass,” by Devin F. Jun 17-26: 7:30 pm Thr-Sat Schwyhart must be stopped! $8; group discounts This celebration of the mating game available. Theatre for Young America, Best Documentary: “Gombe Coffee Project,” takes on the truths and myths behind that by David Kitchner H&R Block City Stage at Union Station, contemporary conundrum known as "the Best Satire: “Natives In Wonderland,” by (816) 460-2083, www.tya.org C relationship." This hilarious revue pays Manny Manzani tribute to those who have fallen on their Best Editing: “Poeta,” a Documentary by Topeka Civic Theatre & Academy face at the portal of romance, to those Devin F. Schwyhart who have dared to ask, "Say, what are you Best Romance: “Lady In My Life,” by Malik Aziz Laughter on the 23rd Floor by Neil Most Original: “Loss & Lugubriosity 2,” by Simon: May 28-Jun 19: 8 pm Fri-Sat; doing Saturday night?" Directed by Julie Sandell Stangl 7 pm Wed-Thr; 2 pm Sun Rae Mollenkamp. $12 general, $10 faculty Best Music Video: “My Lucky Stars,” by Derek Peer into the office of the zany comedy writ- and seniors, $7 students. Highlander The- Sellens ing team of a 1950s television variety show atre, University of Central Missouri, (660) with this hilarious comedy. Laughter on the 543-8811, www.ucmo.edu/theatre R 23rd Floor was inspired by Neil Simon’s youthful experience as a staff writer on Sid Caesar’s Your Show of Shows, and includes all the attendant comic drama as the har- ried writing staff frantically scrambles to top each other with gags while competing for the attention of star madman, Max Prince. Topeka Civic Theatre & Academy, 3028 SW 8th Ave, Topeka, (785) 357-5211, www.topekacivictheatre.com The Pursuit of Happiness by Richard Dresser: Jun 25-Jul 3: 8 pm Fri-Sat; 2 pm Sun Warning: Contains strong language and adult themes. Annie and Neil have placed their hopes and dreams on the shoulders of Jodi, their bright and high-achieving 18- year-old daughter. Their own regrets and slightly diminished lives will be transformed if only Jodi can get into the right college.

“Hope is a feeling that life and work have meaning. You either have it or you 10 KCSTAGE don’t, regardless of the state of the world that surrounds you.” ~ Vaclav Havel www.kcstage.com JUNE 2010 11 u Blog Notes continued from page 1

ArtsKC receives grant from NEA all of the balance comes from contributions from the community. The ArtsKC Fund has received a $25,000 grant from the National To make a gift to the symphony, or for more information, contact Endowment for the Arts. The money granted in the Access to director of development Ron Fredman at (816) 218-2646 or Artistic Excellence category will be used for the ArtsKC Fund’s [email protected]. Catalyst Project Grants. Catalyst Grants comprise 25% of the Symposium Explores Higher Education and the Arts ArtsKC Fund and are awarded for a variety of arts programs, In conjunction with the Kansas Arts Commission's June meeting projects, and activities such as programs for youth, for families, in Hays, the Commission will host a symposium on Connecting or for fully accessible and inclusive audiences. You can find out Higher Education and Communities through the Arts. The event more at www.artskc.org. will be held 6:00-8:00 pm, Thursday, June 10, in the Eagle MAAA Offers Travel Stipends Room, Robbins Center, Fort Hays State University, Hays, Kansas. Mid-America Arts Alliance awards travel stipends to support per- Doors open at 6:00 pm with the panel discussion featuring higher forming artists and presenters from Kansas and other states in the education leaders in Kansas, beginning at 6:15 pm. Light buffet region – Arkansas, Missouri, Nebraska, Oklahoma and Texas – to supper served, beer and wine provided by the Hays Arts Council. attend meetings, conferences and educational programs. Awards Seating is limited and reservations are required. Please make your are granted on a first-come, first-served basis; to only one person reservation by 5:00 pm, June 4. For questions, call the Kansas Arts per organization/artist or artist/group; and to an organization/artist Commission at (866) 433-0688 or email [email protected]. or artist group that has not been awarded a travel stipend within IFC Hosts One Night Stand the last two years. For more information, contact Betty Maltbia, The Independent Filmmakers Coalition of Kansas City (IFCKC) is MAAA performing arts manager, at [email protected]. proud to announce the Tenth Annual “One Night Stand” will take Symphony Receives Challenge Grant place on Saturday, June 26. While many cities around the nation The Kansas City Symphony has received a challenge grant of now hold similar events, the IFCKC’s “One Night Stand” was the $300,000 from anonymous donors. To meet the challenge, the first of its kind and is the only film contest that challenges teams symphony must raise the same amount by June 30 – the end of to write, shoot, edit and screen a short film in just ten hours. Find the Symphony's fiscal year – through new or additional gifts from out more at www.ifckc.org. individuals. The symphony, with a budget of about $11.6 million, ArtsKC Awards Inspiration Grants receives only 30 percent of its revenue through ticket sales. Virtually The Arts Council of Metropolitan Kansas City announced the first round of ArtsKC Fund Inspiration Grants for 2010. The ArtsKC Fund will distribute $7,500 through 10 grants to individual Kansas City artists for various projects. The Inspiration Grant proposals and amounts went to: Cheryl Eve, $1,000; Bob Brock, $500; Lisa Cordes, $500; Maria Creyts, $750; Cat Johnson, $500; Frankie Krainz and Seth Golay, $1,000; Marisa MacKay, $750; Erica Mahinay, $1,000; Marilyn Mahoney, $500; and May Tveit, $1,000. KS Arts Orgs Receive NEA Grants The National Endowment for the Arts has announced that six Kansas organizations, including the Kansas Arts Commission, will receive $931,200 in federal grants through the National Endowment for the Arts. The award recipients are: Kansas Arts Commission, Topeka, $778,200; Lawrence Children's Choir, $8,000 to support the Cadenza choir; Music Theatre of Wichita, $30,000 to support a production of the musical Crazy for You; University of Kansas Center for Research, $30,000 to support Explorations in Art and Science: The Search for Beginning and Meaning, a series presented at the Lied Center of Kansas; Uni- versity of Kansas Center for Research, $40,000 to support the series American Masterpieces: Pushing Form, Boundaries, and Expectations; and the William Inge Festival Foundation, $45,000 to support the creation and performance of the community-based theater event The Other Side of Oz in Greensburg and Indepen- dence, Kansas. Charlotte Street Awards Charlotte Street Foundation is pleased to announce the selec- tion of two Kansas City based generative performing artists to receive unrestricted cash Awards of $6,500 each in 2010. Selected through a competitive, two-phased process by a panel of area performing arts professionals, the recipients are composer/ musician Brad Cox and cross-disciplinary director/writer/performer Stephanie Roberts.

10 www.kcstage.com JUNE 2010 11 u Blog Notes Cappie Awards continued from page 11

UMKC Professor Wins Prize The Kansas City Cappies celebrated All of the Cappie nominees get The American Academy in Rome has selected UMKC professor Paul Rudy as at their 8th Annual Cappies Gala at invited to participate in the Kan- its 2010-2011 winner of the Elliott Carter The Bernard C. Campbell Perform- sas City Cappies Summer Theatre Rome Prize in musical composition. Rudy ing Arts Center at Lee’s Summit High camp. These are the best actors and is Professor of Composition, Coordinator of Composition, and Director of the Inter- School. Awards were presented to technicians from 17 different high media/Music Production and Computer high school Theatre students in 36 schools coming together to create Technology Center at the Conservatory. different categories. something magical on stage. They The Academy awards the Rome Prize to a select group of artists and scholars Some highlights of the evening rehearse eight hours a day for two who are invited to Rome to pursue their were; a show stopping performance weeks, and put up a full scale musi- creative goals in an atmosphere condu- cive to artistic innovation and progressive of “And I’m Telling You I’m Not cal at the end that will knock your scholarship. Going” from Dreamgirls performed socks off! This year’s production is Volunteer Lawyers & Accountants by Tenequa Shephard of Ruskin Curtains, and will be performed at Join the Kansas City Volunteer Lawyers High School, an array of award Lee’s Summit West High School on and Accountants for the Arts and learn the ethical implications of representing presenters made up of industry pro- August 6 and 7. artists with a two hour continuing legal fessionals including KMBC’s Bryan For information about joining or education seminar “The Ethics of Rep- Busby, and a sweep of the top two supporting The Kansas City Cap- resenting Artists Pro Bono” at 6pm June 30 at the Arts Incubator, 115 W 18th St. awards by Excelsior Springs High pies, please contact the program 2 hours Ethics Credit in Kansas and 2.2 School winning best play with their director Beth Bloom Ocheskey at hours Ethics Credit in Missouri. For more production of Medea, and best musi- (816) 589-0980 or beth.ocheskey@ information call (816) 472-3535 or visit www.KCVLAA.org R cal with Aida. cappies.com. R

2010 Cappie Awards Male Vocalist: Seth Jones, Raymore-Peculiar, Into the Woods Sound: Marie Whelan, Raymore-Peculiar, Into the Comic Actress in a Play: Skyler Ashmore, Belton, Woods John Lennon & Me Lighting: Rob Glauz, Lee’s Summit West, A Chorus Comic Actor in a Play: Ryan Gilyard, Grandview, Line Dracula Sets: Brooke Purnell, Grandview, The Wedding Comic Actress in a Musical: Ellen Sherman, Blue Singer Springs South, All Shook Up Costumes: Jessica Humphreys, Jennifer Knecht, Comic Actor in a Musical: Alex Stompoly, Oak Excelsior Springs, AIDA Park, Cinderella, Enchanted Edition Make-up: Jessica Reardon, Alanna Sherbo, Excel- Supporting Actress in a Play:Nicollette Thompson, sior Springs, Medea Raymore-Peculiar, The Front Page Props & Effects: Krystal VanBuskirk, Grandview, Supporting Actor in a Play: Nick Wilson, Lee’s Dracula Summit, A Doll’s House Stage Crew: Kelsee Gardner, Ashley Herring, Supporting Actress in a Musical: Elyssa LeMay, Brooke Purnell, Grandview, Dracula Raymore-Peculiar, Into the Woods Orchestra: A Chorus Line Orchestra, Lee’s Summit Supporting Actor in a Musical: Rob Glauz, Lee’s West, A Chorus Line Summit West, A Chorus Line Choreography: Kimmie Mollenhour, Harrisonville, Lead Actress in a Play: Lauren Gardner, Belton, Bye Bye Birdie John Lennon & Me Creativity: Neil Bearden, Excelsior Springs, Medea Lead Actor in a Play: Alex Miller, Raymore-Peculiar, Ensemble in a Play: The Chorus, Excelsior Springs, The Front Page Medea Lead Actress in a Musical: Nicollette Thompson, Ensemble in a Musical: The Statues, Blue Springs Raymore-Peculiar, Into the Woods South, All Shook Up Lead Actor in a Musical: Brad Rice, Excelsior Featured Actress: Kelcey Martin, Raymore-Peculiar, Springs, AIDA Into the Woods Song: Elaborate Lives, Excelsior Springs, AIDA Featured Actor: Rowdy Andrews, Oak Park, A Few Play: Medea, Excelsior Springs Good Men Musical :AIDA, Excelsior Springs Female Dancer: Austin Snethen, Lee’s Summit Female Critic: Mykah Murphy, Oak Grove Community Christian School, Rodgers and Male Critic: Austin Strassle, Hickman Mills Hammerstein’s Cinderella Critic Team: Raymore-Peculiar, Raymore-Peculiar Male Dancer: Blake Piatczye, Lee’s Summit West, A Chorus Line Female Vocalist: Tenequa Shephard, Ruskin, Dreamgirls

12 KCSTAGE “Birth was the death of him.” ~ Samuel Beckett www.kcstage.com JUNE 2010 13 A Academic Theatre E Equity Theatre Film Clips Auditions C P by Larry F. Levenson www.kcstage.com/auditions Community Theatre Professional Theatre

The Missouri Department of Tourism C Alcott Arts Center* necessary. Olathe Community Theater shot four new television commercials in Shakespeare in the Parking Lot IV: Much Assn, 500 E Loula St, (913) 782-2990, KC using SAG contracts. Auditions were Ado About Nothing by William Shake- www.olathetheatre.org held at Wright/Laird Casting. T2 handled speare: Jun 5-6: 10 am Sat-Sun the shoot for Hoffman-Lewis Advertising This comedy by William Shakespeare P Agency in St. Louis. Puppetry Arts Institute proves once again that love is a battlefield. Troupe DV8 Wright/Laird Casting has been busy on The story concerns two pairs of lovers, one NEW Vaudeville KC: Jun 3: 6:30 pm Thr other projects as well. They have been due to be married in a week and one that As part of the KC Fringe Festival (July 25 casting for Sprint, Silver Dollar City, SAP would be considered anything but. Claudio to Aug 1), Troupe DV8 will premiere a projects, and were looking for adults and and Hero are young, facing heartache on retro variety revue with a nod to show biz babies who had been born in Boone the way to happiness. Meanwhile, Beatrice past. Piece will include theatre, puppetry, County Hospital in Columbia. and Benedict have the ‘merry war’ of the comedy, magic, movement, improv, and sexes, trapped by their love and apparent staged routines (modern & vintage). Par- Director Hugh Gross shot his feature After disdain. Surrender your heart to this age ticipants will shape routines and material the Wizard around Kingman, Kan., and old romantic comedy—and see why there in a workshop process. Directed by Kraig Topeka. is ... much ado about nothing. Directed Kensinger. Seeking versatile men & women by Richard T. Sutton. Auditions start at Location scouting has commenced for performers ages 20’s to 50’s. Various roles 10 am. It will be cold readings from the a feature to be shot in KC this fall. The in an ensemble setting. Also seeking stage script. If you have a resume, bring one—but director is looking for houses valued manager. Fringe Central, 1730 Broadway, not required. Please bring a list of conflicts around $1 million in areas south of the (816) 478-0558, www.hazelle.org (all week) starting June 23. Performances Missouri River. are Sept 11, 12, 18, & 19. Alcott Arts Do you have production internship Center Theatre, 180 S 18th St, (913) 233- C River City Community Players available for this summer? Contact the 2787, www.alcottartscenter.org Annie by Thomas Meehan: Missouri Motion Media Association at Jun 7-9: 7 pm Mon-Wed Everyone’s favorite comic-strip orphan, [email protected] indicating the P number of hours per week and if the intern- The Mystery Train Annie is a Broadway musical based upon The Art of Murder by Philip blue owl ship is paid or unpaid. They will broadcast the popular Harold Gray comic strip Little Hooser: May 31-Jun 1: 5 pm Tue this to schools with film programs. Orphan Annie, music by Charles Strouse In 1975, the art world bids a sad adieu to and lyrics by Martin Charnin. The musical’s Nick Vedros Photography of KC shot a a famous painter. And in the midst of the songs “Tomorrow” and “It’s the Hard- Capital One print ad. mourning, a murder is committed on the Knock Life” are its more popular pieces. train! Is someone being drawn into an Stick Figure Productions visited St. Louis Directed by Joshua Shockey. Prepare abstract plot? Or is it a frame-up? Directed one verse and one chorus from a song shooting a documentary on Joseph Pulitzer. by Wendy Thompson. The Mystery Train The project was for HBO. of your choice. Bring CD or sheet music will hold auditions by appointment only accompaniment. Leavenworth Performing Judy-Anne Goldman of KC is gearing up to on May 31 and June 1 between 5 pm and Arts Center, 500 Delaware St, (913) 682- shoot a documentary entitled Zamboanga: 9 pm for its summer show, an interactive 7557, www.rccplv.com Poverty, War, Music. murder mystery. Seeking three actors and a stage manager. Call 816-813-9654 for Luck Duck Films and Taylor-Reid Enter- more information or to make an appoint- C Topeka Civic Theatre & Academy tainment plan to shoot their feature ment. Prime Rib Grill by the Hereford Willy Wonka Jr. by Leslie Bricusee and White Picket Fence in Salina in June. For House, 100 E 20th St, (816) 813-9654, Anthony Newley: Jun 7: 7 pm Mon information, contact them at Romance [email protected] The timeless story of the world-famous [email protected]. R candy man and his quest to find an heir comes to life in this stage adaptation of C Are you a filmmaker in the KC area Olathe Community Theatre* Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, featur- and want to submit news about your Our Town by Thornton Wilder: ing songs like “Candy Man” and “Pure production to KC Stage? E-mail Larry at Jun 10-16: 6 pm Wed-Thr Imagination” from the classic family film [email protected] before June 10. Olathe Community Theatre Association Willy Wonka and The Chocolate Factory. is excited to announce that it has secured Ages 6-19. Scripts will be available for permission to produce David Cromer’s checkout from box office (with $10 deposit) staging of Our Town as the first production approximately two weeks prior to auditions. in its 2010-2011 season. The production Contact Jennifer Van Bruggen at (785) will open on Sept. 10 for a three-week 357-5213 for audition appointment or run. Directed by Darren Sextro. Audition more information. Topeka Civic Theatre dates: June 10, 6 - 9:30 pm, and June & Academy, 3028 SW 8th Ave, (785) 357- 16, 6-9:30 pm. It is not necessary to be 5213, www.topekacivictheatre.com R at both audition dates. No appointment

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