The Pennsylvania Shakespeare Festival Newsletter • Spring 2019

choreography by Susan Stroman. Defined piano in his family home. He rose to suc- by Megan Diehl, Advancement and by its intense charm and comedic escapades, cess as an arranger and composer, and his Communications Manager audiences reveled in the familiar Mickey- and An American in Paris and-Judy, boy-meets-girl plot devices, would go on to define a new era in American rom the moment of its premiere, heightened by elaborate Fred-and-Ginger music. Ira Gershwin was more bookish, Crazy for You made a lasting mark on eleventh-hour dance numbers, with plenty of attended college, and even temporarily wrote F the landscape of musical theatre. In his “let’s put on a show” gumption. under a pseudonym, not wanting to capital- review of the original Broadway production ize on his brother’s fame. in 1992, Frank Rich of The New York Times At the heart of the new hit, however, wrote, “When future historians try to find was the memorable score packed with indel- Upon teaming up, the Gershwins would the exact moment at which Broadway finally ible American standards from the com- go on to write a series of meteoric Jazz Age rose up to grab the musical back from the poser and lyricist team of George and Ira successes, and would become British, they just may conclude that the Gershwin. The pair of brothers who grew up the first musical comedy to win a Pulitzer revolution began last night.” In an era of poor on the Lower East Side of Manhattan Prize in 1932. They remained partners until musical theatre dominated by Cameron became one of the signature songwriting the unexpected death of George at the age Mackintosh Broadway blockbusters imported teams of the century with musical comedy of 38, the height of his career. Ira Gershwin from across the pond (Cats, The Phantom of hit shows such as Lady, Be Good!, Oh, Kay!, once remarked, “I always felt that if George the Opera, Les Misérables, Miss Saigon), the Funny Face, and Strike Up the Band. hadn’t been my brother and pushed me, I’d inventive “new” Gershwin musical stood out have been contented to be a bookkeeper.” Originally born Jacob and Israel as a shining icon of a glorious golden age of Gershovitz, the Gershwin brothers were sons For playwright Ken Ludwig, the oppor- American entertainment. of immigrant parents who fled St. Petersburg, tunity to create a new Gershwin musical came Crazy for You contained all of the affability Russia on the same wave of czarist pogroms “out of the blue” when Texan multi-millionaire of a nostalgic musical comedy classic, woven that brought many to American shores at the Roger Horchow, known for The Horchow together from hits and neglected pieces of turn of the 20th century. Collection luxury mail order catalogue, called Broadway history and highlighted by the dropped out of school at the age of 15 and him with the opportunity. Ludwig’s 1990 hit new book by Ken Ludwig and the stunning had by that time secretly learned to play the continues on page 3

Casting Crazy for You in

New York was thrilling—

‘‘with this cast of Broadway artists, this production‘‘ Danny Gardner Hayley Podschun Vishal Vaidya Kate Loprest is going to dazzle like a Bobby Child Polly Baker Bela Zangler Irene Roth fireworks display once it Broadway/NY: Dames Broadway: Hairspray, Broadway/NY: Broadway: Hairspray, at Sea, Radio City, City Chaplin, Sunday in the Groundhog Day, City Xanadu, Drowsy hits our stage. Center Encores; National Park w/ George, Anything Center Encores; Regional: Chaperone, Wonderland; Tours: White Christmas, Goes; National Tour: Arena Stage, Ford’s Regional: Guthrie, – Patrick Mulcahy, 42nd Street Glinda in Wicked; Film: Theatre, Kennedy Center Old Globe, Paper Mill Producing Artistic Director Hail, Caesar! Playhouse; TV: Boardwalk Empire, All My Children Notes from the Thank you to our sponsors. Producing Artistic Director Season Sponsor This summer, PSF offers an opportunity to Valerie Moritz Smith come together for a uniquely Associate Season Sponsors transporting, even transcendent, Linda Lapos Kathleen Kund Nolan experience. Our The Szarko Family 2019 season is & Paul Wirth & Timothy E. Nolan a celebration of Patrick Mulcahy laughter, love, and inspiration. Sponsors With you, we will accompany some of our favorite characters on their quest for more of life’s beauty and bounty. Much like Robin Hood, Maid Marian, and their merry band, our adventure has just begun. Amaranth Steve & Lee & Foundation Jane Auvil Dolly Butz Prepare to be carried away by song, dance, and romance in this summer’s Tony Award-winning musical Crazy Amy Miller Douglas for You, a toe-tapping celebration of Cohen, Ph.D. Dykhouse Gershwin music with a joyful book from funnyman Ken Ludwig. Gina Lamparella (Richard II), a veteran of eight Broadway musicals, will direct. We look forward to filling our the- atre spaces with the restorative powers of Susan Henry Martin & Brenda & John Dr. James & laughter this summer. The Mystery of Irma James T. Martin, Jr. McGlade Penny Pantano Vep, a hilariously haunted quick-change comedy, will welcome back Festival favor- David B. Rothrock & Drs. Paul & ites Brad DePlanche and Christopher Patrina L. Rothrock June Schlueter Patrick Mullen for this spoof, with director Jim Helsinger at the helm. Dennis Razze will also bring the irreverent lightning Darbin & Keith & wit of Noël Coward to life with a side- Deborah Skeans Stefanie Wexler splitting send up of the follies and foibles of love in Private Lives.

Shakespeare’s sizzling poetry immor- Festival Host Sponsor talizes two of history’s most famous figures in Antony and Cleopatra, exploring power and passion on a global scale. The award- winning Eleanor Holdridge will direct. Finally, in the sequel to last season’s King Richard II, Prince Hal and Falstaff bring us on a raucous journey as folly and duty col- lide in Henry IV, Part 1. Pennsylvania Shakespeare PSF receives state arts funding Festival’s productions of Antony & support through a grant from the Great works of art can heal what ails Cleopatra and Henry IV, Part 1 are Pennsylvania Council on the Arts, us in exciting and unexpected ways. We part of Shakespeare in American a state agency funded by the can’t wait to share what’s in store with Communities, a program of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and you this summer! National Endowment for the Arts in the National Endowment for the Arts, a partnership with Arts Midwest. federal agency.

PSF is the Official Shakespeare Festival of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.

2 • The Quill, Spring 2019 610.282.will Christopher Coucill Jason Daniel Rath Matthew Patrick Quinn Jerry Gallagher Rashaan James, II Everett Baker Billy Lank Hawkins Moose Sam Broadway: Annie Get Theatre: Denver Center, National Tour: Finding Theatre: Paper Mill Tours: South Pacific, Your Gun, Kiss Me Kate, Maltz Jupiter Theatre, Neverland; Regional: Playhouse, MUNY, West Side Story, 42nd The Graduate; National Westchester Broadway Disney, Northern Stage, Goodspeed Opera Street; Regional: Tour: Crazy for You Theatre, Arrow Rock Ogunquit Playhouse House, Pittsburgh Public Virginia Stage, Dallas Lyceum Theater; TV: PBS Great Theatre Center, Pioneer Performances­–Crazy Theatre for You

Crazy for You continued property that is home to a failing theatre in a continues to be performed all around the deserted mining town. Bobby has big dreams world and is rumored soon to be headed for comedy was currently run- Lend Me a Tenor of being a hoofer on the Broadway stage and a Broadway revival. ning on Broadway, and Horchow, who had rather than closing down the theatre, ends up acquired the rights to the Gershwin songs, was revitalizing it, not to mention falling in love “I think there’s a perennial appeal to a looking for a playwright to construct a story with his leading lady. musical that is well-constructed and tells a around them. Ludwig had never written a story in an engaging way where you become musical before, and graciously turned down the “Absolutely, but I wasn’t conscious of it really involved in characters who you come to opportunity. After two more refusals, Horchow at the time,” says Ludwig of the similarities love,” says Ludwig. flew to DC, where Ludwig lives and works, between him and Bobby Child. Once upon a and finally persuaded him. time, Ludwig was a young artist who reluc- And then of course you have the incred- ible music.” Crazy for You weaves together a deep catalogue of Gershwin hits and With the original Broadway hidden gems in a substantial rework- production hailed as “riotously enter- ing of the 1930 Gershwin musical Girl taining,” Ludwig is confident that Crazy (the production that made stars audiences will continue to find a out of newcomers Ethel Merman and much-needed release in the joyfulness Ginger Rogers), and incorporates songs of revisiting old classics. from seven other Gershwin shows. More than just a remembrance of Horchow originally proposed a simple a beloved era of musical theatre, how- reworking of , but Ludwig ever, he hopes that a piece like Crazy found the script somewhat unfit for for You will continue to delight audi- adaptation as it originated in a time ences and bring them together. “It’s a before the popularization of the “book chance to take a breath and look on musical,” prior to the era of Kern, the parts of life that make us happy.” Rodgers, and Hammerstein. Ira Gershwin (left) and George Gershwin, early 1930s. Everett With each new play or new produc- “The challenge with the musi- Collection Inc./age fotostock. tion, he aims for his work to be “push- cal is making sure that the songs tell ing the ball forward, just a little bit” the story; that they aren’t just dropped in tantly attended Harvard Law School at the towards a sense of a shared community. “We and just take an emotion and sing about that behest of his parents. While there, he hap- have to keep in touch with the things that emotion,” says Ludwig. “They need to for- pened to meet and form a relationship with give us joy as human beings.” n ward the story.” The new structure he created legendary composer Leonard Bernstein, who encouraged his love of music and theatre. “I Megan Diehl (Advancement took hummable tunes like “I Got Rhythm,” & Communications “Someone to Watch Over Me,” and “Nice was a music geek who had to make a living. Manager) is a drama- Work If You Can Get It,” out of their old set- That’s why I practiced law for years, but it turg, director, and tings and transported them into invigorated was a day job. I had to make a living, but my writer in her 16th MAIN STAGE characters and show-stopping dance numbers. heart was in the theatre.” season with PSF. JUNE 12 to JUNE 30 She recently For Ludwig, the most attractive element Ludwig’s love for theatre eventually obtained her MA of the Girl Crazy story was the Easterner pro- found its way into a prolific career as one of from Villanova America’s leading comedic playwrights. His University with tagonist who goes west to find a new life and a Certificate fall in love while he’s at it. In Crazy for You, work on Crazy for You would lead to a four- in Nonprofit Bobby Child is a discontented banker who is year run on Broadway, winning three Tony Management, sent to Deadrock, Nevada, to foreclose on a Awards, three Outer Critics Circle Awards, and is an alumna of and two Drama Desk Awards. Crazy for You DeSales University. www.pashakespeare.org The Quill, Spring 2019 • 3 additional PSF directing credits include Beauty and the Beast; the Linny Fowler WillPower Tours of A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Macbeth, Much Ado About Nothing, and Hamlet; and associate director of The Taming of the Shrew. She has also directed in New York and Florence, Italy. Set Designer: Steve TenEyck Steve TenEyck returns for his 14th season at PSF fol- lowing his scenic Playwright: Ken Ludwig with Leonard Bernstein, and Cambridge design for last sea- University. His work has been performed son’s Ragtime and Ken Ludwig is a in more than 30 countries in more than 20 scenic and lighting two-time Olivier languages, and is produced somewhere in the design for Twelfth Award-winning United States every night of the year. www. Night and Alice playwright who has kenludwig.com in Wonderland. written more than Steve TenEyck Regionally his design 28 plays and musi- Director: Gina Lamparella work has been seen at Dallas Theatre Center, cals, including six Gulfshore Playhouse, Orlando Shakespeare shows on Broadway Crazy for You will be Theater, Syracuse Stage, TACT NYC, Big and seven in helmed by Broadway Art Group, Tri-Cities Opera, Madison London’s West End. actress and director Ken Ludwig. Photo by Opera, Syracuse Opera, Anchorage Opera, His first Broadway Gina Lamparella, Leslie Cashen. Minnesota Opera, Florida Grand Opera, Mill play, Lend Me A who directed PSF’s City Summer Opera, The Kitchen Theatre, Tenor, won two Tony Awards and was called King Richard II last Repertory Theatre of St. Louis, and The “one of the classic comedies of the 20th cen- season. Her acting Hangar Theatre. He is a member of United tury,” by The Washington Post. credits include the Broadway produc- Scenic Artists Local 829 and teaches design at His other awards include the Helen tions of The Phantom Ithaca College in New York. Hayes Award, the 2017 Samuel French Award Gina Lamparella of the Opera, A Little Joining TenEyck on the creative team for Sustained Excellence in the American Night Music, Dirty Rotten Scoundrels, Fiddler for Crazy for You are costume designer Sam Theatre, the Edgar Award for Best Mystery on the Roof, Gypsy, Imaginary Friends, Jane Fleming, lighting designer Eric T. Haugen, of the Year, and the Edwin Forrest Award for Eyre, and Les Misérables; and TV appearances and sound designer Matthew Given. The Contributions to the American Theater. include Master of None, All My Children, As musical will be under the music direction of, the World Turns, and Guiding Light. His book, How To Teach Your Children and conducted by, Ryan Touhey, with chore- Shakespeare—published by Penguin/Random Gina’s PSF acting credits include Thaisa ography by Stephen Casey. n House—won the Falstaff Award for Best in Pericles and Miranda in The Tempest. Her Shakespeare Book of the Year, and his essays are published by the Yale Review. Main Street, Dead Rock, Nevada. Ken’s best known works include Crazy For You, Lend Me A Tenor, Moon Over Buffalo, The Game’s Afoot, Baskerville, Sherwood, A Fox on the Fairway, A Comedy of Tenors, and a stage version of Murder on the Orient Express, written expressly at the request of the Agatha Christie Estate, which will open in the West End next season. His play, The Gods of Comedy, premieres this season at McCarter Theatre in Princeton, N.J., and The Old Globe Theatre in San Diego. His newest plays are Moriarty and Dear Jack, Dear Louise, which premieres at Arena Stage in fall 2019. On Broadway and the West End, his plays have starred Alec Baldwin, Carol Burnett, Tony Shalhoub, Lynn Redgrave, Joan Collins, and Kristen Bell. He holds degrees from Harvard, where he studied music THE PENNSYLVAIA SHAKESPEARE FESTIVAL Set rendering and scenic design by Steve TenEyck. CRAZY FOR YOU 2.5: DEADROCK MAIN STREET #21: BIDDIN MY TIME #22: THINGS ARE LOOKING UP

REVISION: 18-DEC-2018 4 • The Quill, Spring 2019 610.282.willDIRECTOR: GINA LAMPARELLA DESIGN: STEVE TENEYCK Enhance Your PSF Experience Dining options range from casual to fine dining

TWILIGHT ON THE TERRACE Experience a sit-down dining experience in the comfort of the shade on PSF’s tented terrace. Each 3-course menu is uniquely themed to the production for your enjoyment each Thursday, Friday or Saturday night with seatings from 6:00 to 7:15pm. Reservations required. BYOB

Dinner Menus & Dates $25 per person SPECIALTY DINNERS Crazy For You Chef-curated dinners themed to each production feature speakers June 13, 14, 15, 20, 21, & 22 sharing insight and background. Attend a performance the same Pear, pecan, and butternut squash salad w/ day as the meal, or come to another performance and dine a apple cider vinaigrette; hickory scented filet mignon w/ au poivre sauce; rosemary au gratin different day. Held in the University Center, dinners are $38 and potatoes; roasted vegetables; and French include full bar. apple tart. Vegetarian entree: eggplant rollatini. Director’s Dinners: Savoring Shakespeare: Crazy For You: Antony & Cleopatra: The Mystery of Irma Vep Sunday, June 16, 5:00pm Friday, July 26, 5:00pm June 27, 28, & 29 Wednesday, June 26, 5:00pm Henry IV, Part 1: English cucumber, candied walnut, and cherry tomato spring mix salad w/ roquefort dill Irma Vep: Sunday, July 28, 5:00pm vinaigrette; chicken francaise w/ lemon caper Saturday, July 13, 5:00pm beurre blanc; scallion mashed potatoes; Private Lives: sauteed green beans; and fresh berry trifle Friday, August 2, 5:00pm martinis. Vegetarian entree: roasted vegetable lasagna w/ fresh basil vodka sauce. Picnic Baskets for One or Two Antony & Cleopatra July 11, 12, & 13 Prefer something more casual? Mediterranean salad; stuffed chicken Enjoy a picnic basket on the green saltimbocca w/ lemon caper sauce; sundried with an elegant twist. Varietal baskets tomato risotto; green bean bundle; and date include house-made sandwiches, fruit stuffed bundt cake w/ brown sugar glaze. salad, pasta salad, miniature desserts, Vegetarian entree: wild mushroom ravioli w/ and bottles of water. $12.99/$20.99. Marsala cream sauce. Advance purchase required. BYOB Private Lives Plan in advance and reserve July 18, 19, & 20 your dinners and baskets Strawberry salad w/ angel food croutons; at pashakespeare.org. salmon oscar w/ jumbo lump crab; saffron Reservations and orders parmesan risotto; asparagus bundle; and can also be made by crème brulee w/ fresh berries. Vegetarian calling the box office at entree: baked ratatouille vegetable napoleon. 610.282.WILL [9455]. Henry IV, Part 1 July 25, 26, & 27; August 1, 2, & 3 Spinach, feta, & cherry tomato spring mix salad w/ balsamic vinaigrette; carved strip loin w/ bordelaise sauce; smoked gouda & scallion mashed potatoes; spring vegetable bundle; and Earl Grey pot du crème. Vegetarian entree: grilled vegetable napoleon w/ truffle risotto. www.pashakespeare.org The Quill, Spring 2019 • 5 HAUNTED HILARITY By Lara Notarianni Broadway debut lies in the variety of allusions to popular culture. References include Hitchcock’s film , Bronte’s odern audiences seem to have an obses- Rebecca , Shakespeare, and penny dreadfuls, (not to sion with true crime podcasts, Netflix Wuthering Heights mention werewolves, vampires, and mummies, oh my!). To take series, and TV shows. Yet retellings of M his spoof of these subjects and the melodramatic style to new real crime and horror stories now available on our devices levels of hilarity, Ludlam wrote the play to be performed by are not a new phenomenon. From the 1830s, wide audi- only two actors of the same gender, ensuring quick changes and ences turned to “penny papers” for cheap entertainment. These cross-dressing to amuse audiences and challenge theatre artists. tabloid-like publications sold for a penny and included serial novels published in weekly installments. Known first as “penny Irma Vep will be staged in the Schubert Theatre for the bloods” and later as “penny dreadfuls,” the stories drew inspi- second time. To make its return even more special, the same ration from 18th- and 19th-century gothic novels as well as fearsome threesome that brought it to life in 2007 will tackle infamous true crimes. the undead once more—Jim Helsinger will direct PSF veterans Christopher Patrick Mullen and Brad DePlanche. And, again, Versatile theatre artist Charles Ludlam reinvented they will be joined by most of the same design team as the and satirized the penny serials with 2007 production. one of his most famous works, The Mystery of Irma Vep—A Penny Helsinger, who will direct this play for the fourth time, Dreadful in 1984. A leader of favors the words “fascinating” and “fun” as he describes what avant-garde theatre in New draws audiences to this piece. “We love gothic vampires, York City, Ludlam started the werewolves­—the whole sense of the thriller.” With characters Ridiculous Theatrical Company in that Helsinger describes as a brooding and tortured lord, a 1967, where he wrote, produced, directed, young femme fatale, and odd servants; plus more than a few and acted in his own plays. He often parodied established forms pinches of mystery thrown into the cauldron, audiences find such as opera, film noir, and penny dreadfuls while playing the Ludlam’s world irresistible. starring role, male or female, alongside his company of actors. The Hofstra University graduate’s audience grew from a cult fol- As for the fun, “It’s like Laurel and Hardy meets lowing with the help of his performance as Marguerite Gautier Frankenstein and werewolves,” Helsinger says. Quick changes, in his Camille (1974) and his quick-change tricks, plus cross-dressing offer the comic relief he believes comedy The Mystery of Irma Vep. Just as people look for in the summer. Christopher Patrick Mullen his artistry gained wider appreciation, calls it “a fantastic piece of delicious nonsense,” and his co- Ludlam was diagnosed with AIDS and star Brad DePlanche promises that with this team “there’s died from pneumonia at the age of 44 never a shortage of madcap hilarity.”

in 1987. The Mystery of Irma Vep remains The Mystery of Irma Vep will also leave audiences the most produced of his plays. with the “How did they do it?” mystery of how two

Perhaps Irma Vep’s ability to remain such a mainstay actors are able to pull off multiple characters and quick in American theatre more than 20 years after its 1998 Off- changes. Helsinger believes that this appreciation the ‘‘ ‘‘It’s like Laurel and Hardy meets Frankenstein and werewolves. ??? Who will play the titular character Christopher Patrick Brad DePlanche Jim Helsinger Ms. Irma Vep? Mullen Nicodemus Underwood Director Jane Twidsen Lady Enid Hillcrest Lord Edgar Hillcrest Alcazar An Intruder Irma Vep??? Irma Vep???

6 • The Quill, Spring 2019 610.282.will production of The Mystery Irma Vep. Photo by Lee A. Butz. 2007 in the Brad DePlanche and Christopher Patrick Mullen

audience gains is just as impor- costumes will likely be a little looser on him by tant as the story and comedy. the end of the four week run. “Part of what makes it so fun is to reduce the plot and Helsinger quickly adds, “It takes a vil- enjoy the artistry.” lage to do a two-person show,” reminding the audience of the entire team of artists With too many who make the on-stage shenanigans quick changes to possible including costume designer count, the backstage Lisa Zinni, scenic and lighting designer action is as cho- Steve TenEyck, both veterans of the reographed and previous production, and the run crews rehearsed as what who facilitate the costume and scenic happens on stage. changes as well as the lighting and Mullen claims that sound cues for each performance. He the final technical shares that the curtain call, when the rehearsals, when the “army” appears from backstage, is one wardrobe crew and of his favorite moments in the show. actors begin to learn and practice the quick All three agree that this production of Ludlam’s classic changes, are the most will be special because of the established relationship they difficult for him. Due to have with the script, each other, and the audience. “Fasten the intensity of the back- your seat belts…It’s gonna be a bumpy stage antics, “…it is in farce,” Mullen exclaims. Heed his warn- our contracts (I’m not kid- ing and prepare for the scares ding—it actually is) that that will leave your heart we have a limitless supply racing and laughs that will of Gatorade – whatever fla- leave your stomach in vor we want,” he shares. stitches as you join Lord Edgar, Lady Enid, and SCHUBERT THEATRE DePlanche, who looks their strange friends to forward to his seventh PSF discover the mystery of JUNE 20 to JULY 14 season and seventh rendition the formidable Irma Vep. n of Irma Vep, adds that because the quick changes leave no Lara Notarianni is an actress and writer. She served as PSF’s interim room for off-stage breaks, his education director and is a DeSales University alumna in Theatre. www.pashakespeare.org The Quill, Spring 2019 • 7 By Heather Helinsky, Dramaturg by this moment in history, is mature, a controlled commander who has not just survived but was heavily involved in the plots and ast summer, PSF audiences watched Shakespeare fall in love machinations of a recently wrenched from a repub- with Viola de Lesseps, the imaginary character from the lic to a kind of oligarchy of Triumvirs. L1999 film Shakespeare in Love, written by Tom Stoppard and Marc Norman. When Shakespeare’s audiences last met Antony in , he was the man who mourned Caesar’s corpse and vowed While historians know a bit about Shakespeare’s domestic life vengeance. He manipulated words so expertly that he turned the and have pondered odd details of why Shakespeare willed his wife assembly of Roman citizens supporting Brutus into a seething mob. Anne Hathaway his “second best bed,” we don’t truly know any- He cried havoc and let slip the dogs of war. thing about Shakespeare’s views on love other than what we learn from his characters. With every play, with every character, there’s a In Act IV, scene 1 of Julius Caesar, Antony coldly divided up naval map of clues orienting us to Shakespeare’s feelings about love the empire in a secret meeting with the Triumvirate, and was will- and the oceans of drama it generates. ing to sacrifice his own family members for political gain. Antony was a deadly serious man, giving terse orders in his rise to power. In Antony and Cleopatra, Shakespeare chooses to dramatize two famous leaders from history who were forced to make choices So it’s quite a shocking opening for a play that Antony is now upon the largest stage of their time: shifting global politics and seemingly consumed by the fire of love. Or is it? the fate of the Roman Empire. How Antony and Cleopatra navi- gate the dangerous waters of their passion swirling and colliding The source of his desire is a 30-something woman who rules the with their responsibility to their nations gives us much to consider last great kingdom in the region, Egypt. Shakespeare’s dramatization regarding Shakespeare’s views on love. of her cements her image more than any coin or historical account. Shakespeare wastes no time introducing us to Antony and The historical Cleopatra VII ruled Egypt for 22 years. Cleopatra. As the curtain rises, Antony should be commanding Declared a goddess as a child and a queen at 18, she was no his men on the battlefield, instead, he refuses to yield to the orders stranger to navigating the political shifts of the Roman Empire, from Rome, and only seeks time with Cleopatra: the greatest regional power that threatened Egypt. In that era, the Roman Empire devoured its neighbors, setting its sights on Egypt, Now for the love of Love and her soft hours which was the last remaining truly wealthy country in the region. If Let’s not confound time with conference harsh. Cleopatra wanted autonomy for her country, the stakes were high. There’s not a minute of our lives should stretch Without some pleasure now. What sport tonight? The lovers inhabit a dangerous world where time is fleeting. (Act I, Scene 1, lines 45-48) Yet, perhaps it is the lack of time that Antony and Cleopatra have together—as Shakespeare’s audience would have known that these Yet Antony is no young Romeo mooning over Rosalind and two historical characters met a sudden and sensational death— then quickly shifting his hot-blooded emotions to Juliet. Antony, which intensifies their passion.

Neal Bledsoe Nondumiso Tembe Antony Cleopatra

Theatre: Broadway, Theatre: McCarter McCarter Theatre, Theatre, Yale Rep, Intiman Theatre; TV: Long Wharf; TV: True Shameless, The Man Blood, Castle, Six; in the High Castle, Film: Avengers: Age of Timeless, Guiding Ultron Light, All My Children

8 • The Quill, Spring 2019 610.282.will Director’s Take “Theirs is a great and epic love striving to remain intact in the midst of the roiling politics of MAIN STAGE the world.” to JULY 10 AUGUST 4 Why this play Time frustrates lovers whose relation- What Shakespeare so deftly balances now? ship is under the scrutiny of the public eye. at this point in his career as a playwright is “I am struck Eleanor Holdridge Time excites them, because it pushes them to to not allow history to become a weight on by the difference of make the most of every private moment they the story. , whose Parallel Lives of the incoming Congress compared to the have together. Antony and Cleopatra may the Noble Greeks and Romans was the source Senate. To me, this becomes a wonder- be powerfully positioned in their respective material for Shakespeare’s play, wrote, “…a ful contemporary parallel to the gender empires, but for them, time is fleeting and casual action, the odd phrase, or a jest politics of Rome and Egypt in this play. I’d racing towards a fateful sea battle. reveals character better than battles involv- love for this production to look very con- ing the loss of thousands upon thousands Director Eleanor Holdridge notes, temporary—to create an alternate present of lives, huge troop movements, and whole that still gleans the rich cultural imagery “Everything they do is witnessed, is in the cities besieged.” public eye. There are always servants and of Ancient Rome and Egypt.” spies and aides in attendance on the couple. Shakespeare knows how to make these Antony and Cleopatra each have different great leaders from history into the flawed, ABOUT THE DIRECTOR: agendas that play out over the course of the relatable human beings they were, and Eleanor Holdridge has directed 24 of play; loyalty and love being nowhere near hooks us with private, relatable insights. Shakespeare’s 38 plays, many of them mul- the top. There’s a Hollywood feel to it, like Love—being one of those universal expe- tiple times, and developed new work with the paparazzi are always out and the pres- riences—can challenge and frustrate the contemporary playwrights. sure to play things for the public can inter- greatest global leaders as it might an ordi- fere with private desires. nary citizen. Her Off-Broadway directing credits include world premieres of Selma ’65 at La “They have had the world at their fin- Cleopatra’s name is now associated MaMa Theater, Steve & Idi at Rattlestick gertips.” Holdridge continues. “She—ruler with an asteroid, a video game, a cigarette, Playwrights Theater, and Cycling Past of an empire, he—the greatest warrior in the restaurants, and Elizabeth Taylor, but it’s The Matterhorn at the Clurman Theatre. world. And now what? They have found love, Shakespeare’s play where we can perhaps Regional credits include world premieres but are trapped by the old ideas of who they get a better glimpse of this powerful and at Cincinnati Playhouse, Round House are. Antony is mired in the male dominant famous woman. She is both stratospheric Theatre, Olney Theatre, and Geva Theatre; culture of Rome even while he may long to and on the ground with us, like us. She lost and productions at Theater J, Orlando give up his power to Cleopatra. But the deep a kingdom once, regained it, nearly lost Shakespeare Theater, Kennedy Center cultural ideas about manhood, and a need for it again, commanded ships, and then lost TYA, and Constellation Stage. Roman-type power and adulation, continu- everything as she gambled with her Roman ally come to the surface. Cleopatra uses sex paramour for a chance at what many of us Eleanor holds an MFA from the Yale and ideas of gender to get what she wants. hope for—a great Love. n School of Drama, and is a professor at She wants an Egypt that she, not Rome, Catholic University of America, where she rules, and manipulates Antony to keep that Heather Helinsky, dramaturg: MFA from A.R.T./ is head of directing, producer, and chair of power, even while she loves him.” Moscow Art Theatre Institute for Advanced the Department of Drama. Theatre Training, Harvard; 2001 alumna, DeSales University Theatre.

Setting the Stage: Power and Politics at Home and Abroad The battles, love affairs, and political machinations illuminated by Shakespeare in Antony and Cleopatra closely adhere to the couple’s real history, which was well-documented by authors of the era and translated into English by Shakespeare’s contemporaries. Just before the action of Shakespeare’s play, Antony’s wife Fulvia has conspired to ignite a rebellion against Caesar, perhaps giv- ing Antony even more reason to remain in Egypt with Cleopatra. Fulvia’s death near the beginning of the play sets a complex chain of events into motion through alliances, betrayals, and historic battles of both love and war. www.pashakespeare.org The Quill, Spring 2019 • 9 Join the Pennsylvania Shakespeare Festival Guild

ome and join the excitement of the Pennsylvania Guild Members are Entitled to Great Benefits! Shakespeare Festival Guild! The Guild is the volunteer organization dedicated to the promotion and support of PSF. • After volunteering for two shows, a guild member receives a C special voucher to see a performance of their choice for FREE. The Guild contributes to the success of the Festival’s summer • Invitations to special events such as the Bard’s Birthday Party, season through: the Welcome Picnic (meet the artistic company), and the • Concessions • Souvenirs Guild Thank You Dinner. • Membership • Special Events • Plus the joy of helping create a “Shakespearience” in the Members of the guild may be assigned to one of these tasks when Lehigh Valley! volunteering: • Greet patrons • Souvenir support • Usher • Raffle support • Ticket taker • Hand out programs • Will Call table • Help in set up of opening • Concession support night parties

There’s a “Part” for You STUDENTS CORPORATE EMPLOYEES • Fulfill volunteer hours. • Perform community service hours. • Learn about careers in theater. • Support professional theater. SINGLES CORPORATE & GROUP • Meet new friends. VOLUNTEERING • Share a new experience. Do you work for an area business or belong to a community service group? Perhaps FAMILIES members of your affiliate organization • Volunteer together. would like to organize a group to • Enjoy family time. volunteer for a single performance and be SENIORS recognized for your service at the event. • Make your free time count. Please call to discuss group benefits and • Enjoy the company of interesting people. for information on coordinating the activity with PSF. We would love to have you! Email [email protected] to get started.

Guild Thank You Dinner 2018. To date, there are more than 250 Guild volunteers. Photo by Casey Gallagher.

10 • The Quill, Spring 2019 610.282.will RETURNING THIS SEASON….. Luigi Sottile and Eleanor Handley in the Rep cast.

Luigi Sottile Eleanor Handley Victor, Private Lives Amanda, Private Lives /Thidias, Antony & Cleopatra Agrippa, Antony & Cleopatra Last seen at PSF as young Will Last seen at PSF as Olivia in last summer’s Shakespeare in last summer’s Shakespeare production of Twelfth Night. in Love and as Mowbray and Salisbury in PSF: Blithe Spirit, The Taming of the King Richard II. Shrew, Lend Me a Tenor, Much Ado PSF: Hector in Troilus and Cressida, About Nothing, Cat on a Hot Tin Roof; and Valentine in The Two Gentlemen of Broadway: The Hard Problem (Lincoln Verona; Regional: Steppenwolf Theatre Center); Regional: Hudson Valley Company, Chicago Shakespeare Theater, Folger Theatre, Utah Shakespeare, Bristol Riverside; TV: Royal Pains, As the World Turns, Shakespeare Festival, Walnut Street Theatre; TV: Chicago PD Unforgettable

MAIN STAGE JULY 18 to AUGUST 4 After a volatile marriage of volcanic proportions, Amanda and Elyot have divorced and are each newly married to new, sensible spouses. Chance has brought the two couples to adjacent honeymoon suites with adjoining balconies where the fires of former fervor prove irresistible. With the comedic weaponry of Coward’s lightning cleverness and razor-sharp wit, sparks fly as the couple renews their tempestuous relationship. They fight to maintain effervescent decorum against the force of fiercer passions, but their self-restraint is no match forthe kind of relationship one cannot live with or without. Lauded as “two hours of comic bliss” by The Telegraph, this delectable comedy of manners delivers scintillating satire—shaken, not stirred. Ages 13+

Following his powerful interpretation of last season’s musical Ragtime, PSF’s Associate Artistic Director Dennis Razze will direct Noël Coward’s scintillating comedy Private Lives. Razze, who has directed every musical PSF has produced, returns to the director’s chair for his first non-musical since Cyrano de Bergerac in 2008.

www.pashakespeare.org The Quill, Spring 2019 • 11 All the World’s a Labuda Stage for DeSales University Theatre Students By Tina Louise Slak, Director of Marketing and Public Relations nique to DeSales University theatre majors is the opportunity to work Uwith award-winning professionals at a professional Equity theatre. Pennsylvania Shakespeare Festival is hosted by DeSales University and has emerged as one of the leading summer Shakespeare theatres on the continent. The DeSales Department of Theatre offers the only BA program in the nation with such a strong direct connection with an Equity theatre. Education is one of PSF’s four core The next class of emerging artists—the 2019 Young Company, (from l to r): Jayce Meredith, values. The Young Company, internships, Taylor Congdon, Iykechi McCoy, Angela LaRose, Jhalil Younger, Kailey Edwards, Gabe Moses, Megan Fry, Mark Yowakim, Mackenzie Moyer, and Matt Smaldone. (Not pictured: and apprenticeships programs are among Alyssa Ramsey.) Photo by Julie Sullivan. the Festival’s longest educational traditions. The Festival provides highly-coveted oppor- tunities each year to University students. The Festival’s Young Company, and its Among them, then rising juniors An intensive, experience-based professional apprenticeships and internships, were estab- Megan Fry and Angela LaRose had the development program, these positions rig- lished to immerse DeSales University theatre ultimate “big break” as acting appren- orously prepare student artists and admin- students in the fast-paced summer perfor- tices. Both students in the DeSales theatre istrators for a fruitful career in the theatre mance season, maximizing opportunities department, the aspiring actresses each industry in a “teaching hospital,” active, for professional development, training, and understudied lead roles in the Festival’s practical setting. networking. highly-lauded musical Ragtime, and each had the opportunity of “stepping in” to play Equally dedicated to theatre profes- According to Mulcahy, “Since its found- these roles on the Main Stage. sionals and to theatre students, Festival ing, DeSales students have been a vital part founder Fr. Jerry Schubert, OSFS, believed of the character of the Festival. It is a joy to Fry and LaRose were on stage in every Shakespeare to be the essence and pinnacle watch students rise to the challenge of meet- performance of the musical, in ensemble of theatre artistry and a profound celebra- ing professional norms and to witness their roles as part of the 40-person cast, as they tion of humanity for audiences and artists subsequent successes after graduation.” covered principal roles as understudies. alike. The relationship between the Festival In some circumstances, understudies will This relationship gives DSU theatre stu- and the DSU theatre program is infused know far in advance when they’re going on dents the unique opportunity to earn profes- with this spirit of learning and artistry, set for a principal actor. That was the case for sional credits for their resume and to build a in motion by Fr. Schubert and championed LaRose who began the rehearsal process professional network in the process. by PSF Producing Artistic Director Patrick anticipating stepping in for two perfor- Mulcahy, who also heads the University’s DeSales students are given first prior- mances in the role of infamous vaudeville acting program. ity in many of the Festival’s undergraduate star Evelyn Nesbitt. internships and apprenticeships. Placement Students become an invaluable and But illnesses or other unforeseen emer- in the Festival’s Young Company of actors is active part of the region’s only fully pro- gencies might mean much less notice when only offered to students attending DeSales fessional Equity theater company, learn- “the show must go on.” Megan Fry stepped University. Festival interns are entrusted with ing alongside Tony, Obie, Drama Desk, in for the role of Mother, one of Ragtime’s a great deal of responsibility, bridging the gap Barrymore, Hayes, Jefferson, and Emmy three major leading roles, with less than an between collegiate work and a professional award-winning industry veterans. In addition hour’s notice due to illness. Fry expressed life by working with some of the best in the to master classes and mentorship opportuni- that she was thrilled with the offer to under- industry in a creative and supportive atmo- ties, interns and apprentices gain vital experi- study for the summer, but “never in a million sphere. ence in performance, production, design, and years did I think that I would actually receive administration. “PSF is fostering students who can not the blessing of going on.” only succeed in their careers, but also con- Last summer season, the Festival's per- “Understudying is not easy, being ready tribute to the artistic community and the formances of seven productions over ten at a moment’s notice to step in with minimal greater human community as creators and weeks were accomplished by a seasonal com- or no rehearsal. But because of their training collaborators,” says Mulcahy. pany of 225 artists and artisans; and among and dedication, our students were prepared,” them 41 were DeSales theatre majors, one In PSF’s 2018 season, students and says Mulcahy. “They made us proud and dance major, and one media studies major, alumni participated in producing the earned the respect of every seasoned profes- plus many alumni from the program. Festival’s seven critically acclaimed produc- sional in the building.” n tions attended by more than 34,000 patrons.

12 • The Quill, Spring 2019 610.282.will 2019 Team Award Winners, Lehigh Valley Charter High School for the Arts. 10th Annual High Photo by James Lavranos. School Shakespeare Competition fter taking a hiatus in 2018 due to an unpredictable March snow- A storm, the annual PSF Shakespeare Competition returned on March 2, 2019, at the Labuda Center for the Performing Arts on the campus of DeSales University. With monologues and scenes performed by 68 students from 14 high schools, cover- ing 10 counties and 4 states, participants competed for team and individual trophies as well as $15,000 in DeSales University schol- arship awards. The competition was adjudicated by six professional actors and teaching art- THIRD PLACE: Pottsville Area High School, Measure for Measure, LV Charter High ists from the Lehigh Valley, New York, and Pottsville, Pa. School for the Arts SECOND PLACE: Alaina Hurley & Zachary Philadelphia. Students began the day with MONOLOGUE AWARDS their performances, participated in work- Hitchens as Beatrice & Benedick from FIRST PLACE: Johnny Drumgoole as Much Ado About Nothing, Cab Calloway shops and panels guided by professional art- Richard III from Henry VI, Part III, John S. ists, and then a chosen group of performers School of the Arts Burke Catholic High School THIRD PLACE: Courteney McColgan & and teams presented their work in a show- SECOND PLACE: Noelle Pollock as Imogen case before the awards ceremony. Jonathon Krippe as Isabella & Angelo from Cymbeline, LV Charter High School from Measure for Measure, LV Charter Next year’s competition is scheduled for for the Arts High School for the Arts Saturday, March 7, 2020. THIRD PLACE: Logan Gunoskey as Richard II from Richard II, Pottsville Area High SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS TEAM AWARDS School Max Vermillion, Hannah McCalla, Logan FIRST PLACE: Lehigh Valley Charter High Gunoskey, Kareena Mehrotra, Noelle School for the Arts, Bethlehem, Pa. SCENE AWARDS Pollock, Dylan Gombos, Mikayla Fuentes, SECOND PLACE: Cab Calloway School of FIRST PLACE: Hannah McCalla & Max Gerard Behe the Arts, Wilmington, Del. Vermillion as Isabella & Claudio from

The Linny Fowler WillPower Tour On your reading list and on your stage! Macbeth

Experience the richness and complexity of Shakespeare’s characters and the

power of his language.

Touring Schools in PA, NJ, & DE October 9 - November 8, 2019

Book the tour for your school today! 610.282.9455, ext. 9 • pashakespeare.org/willpower www.pashakespeare.org The Quill, Spring 2019 • 13 Lutron Electronics to Receive the 2019 Will Shakespeare Award ach year, the Will Shakespeare than 100 countries. Its world headquarters Award is given to a person, group, are located on Suter Road in Upper Saucon Eor organization that enriches the Township. Lutron and the Spira family have world by the sharing of gifts, inspires others been longtime supporters of the Festival through luminosity of spirit, and engages with Ruth serving as a member of PSF’s with society in a way that leaves an indelible board for more than 15 years. and beautiful impres- Will Shakespeare “This community is sion. This year’s award Award Past Honorees will be presented to blessed in the enduring Air Products Lutron Electronics support of the Lutron Steve & Jane Auvil at PSF’s annual family,” said Patrick Breslin Ridyard Fadero Architects Luminosity Gala on June 1. Mulcahy, PSF’s produc- ing artistic director. “They deserve an ovation Lee A. Butz Founded in 1961 by Joel and Ruth and the Will Shakespeare Award acknowl- The Century Fund Spira, Lutron is the lighting control indus- edges all they do.” n Marlene “Linny” Fowler try leader that is notorious for introducing Priscilla Payne Hurd Editor’s Note: Tickets for Luminosity are available Linda Lapos & Paul Wirth the first solid-state dimmer for home use. by calling 610-282-WILL [9455], ext. 6, or online at Today, the company offers smart lighting www.pashakespeare.org. The annual gala features Joan Miller Moran and shading control systems that save ener- entertainment by members of the Festival’s artis- Kathleen Kund Nolan & Timothy E. Nolan gy and enhance productivity for homes and tic company, including Broadway headliners and Rev. Bernard F. O’Connor, OSFS offices throughout the world. Lutron is a actors with significant film and television credits, The Rider-Pool Foundation who offer a prelude to the upcoming season. global company, with products sold in more Gerard J. Schubert, OSFS Drs. Frank and Carol Szarko Harry C. Trexler Trust

PSF STAFF PATRICK MULCAHY Producing Artistic Director

DENNIS RAZZE L U MINOSIT Y Associate Artistic Director

CASEY WILLIAM GALLAGHER Managing Director Director of Development MELISSA KERR Director of Marketing & Public Relations TINA LOUISE SLAK Director of Production JARED GOLDSTEIN Education Director ANELISE DIAZ Advancement & Communications Manager MEGAN DIEHL G Business Manager KAREN SPANO Box Office Manager NICOLE MOYER Associate Box Office Manager ZACH WEIDNER 2019 Marketing Associate JULIE SULLIVAN Development Assistant HAYLEY KILLIAN

The Quill is published up to three times a year by Saturday, June 1, 2019 Pennsylvania Shakespeare Festival, the professional DeSales University Center theatre in residence at DeSales University. Artists subject to change. Honorary Chairs: EDITOR Tina Louise Slak EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Julie Sullivan Dr. Karen Doyle Walton and Joseph Walton DESIGN Laura Zielinski, Laura Zielinski Designs 2019 Will Shakespeare Award Recipient: CONTRIBUTORS Megan Diehl Lutron Electronics Heather Helinsky Lara Notarianni Supports PSF Artistic and Education programs. For more info, contact Melissa Kerr, Director of Development: FR. GERARD J. SCHUBERT, OSFS (1929-2015) 610.282.WILL, ext. 6, [email protected]. Founder Tickets available at pashakespeare.org

14 • The Quill, Spring 2019 610.282.will A PASSION FOR EDUCATION AND SHAKESPEARE: Celebrating Valerie Moritz Smith or Valerie Moritz Smith, her deep Valerie’s 2019 season sponsorship is love of the arts came later in life. a true celebration of the many ways the F Forty years ago, her husband’s work Festival impacts our community. While as an exchange teacher temporarily trans- teaching, Valerie also joined the Guild as a planted their family to England for one year. PSF volunteer over the summer. Each season, Inhabiting a new land, she became immersed more than 200 volunteers join the Festival in English culture, visiting great literary in a variety of vital roles that welcome our landmarks and even attending a production patrons to campus and ensure that the expe- of The Merry Wives of Windsor. Experiencing rience of PSF is top notch for visitors. the literary tradition of the world’s greatest playwright began a new chapter in her life. “I can't imagine having a summer with- Upon returning to the states, she completed out PSF!” Valerie shares. She recalls fond her certification to become an English teach- memories of bringing friends to PSF shows at the age of 39. for many seasons and enjoying children’s productions with all of her grandchildren for A Bucks County native, Valerie’s dis- more than 20 years. As a volunteer, she enjoys covery of a love for teaching led to her first meeting the actors and getting to know people interactions with PSF. As a teacher she involved in the Festival each summer. taught Shakespeare plays to 8th-graders and 11th-graders over her career that spanned “It is a pleasure to know of how Valerie’s more than two decades, and even held passion for Shakespeare and education blend together in her generous support and Shakespeare birthday parties annually with The Tour serves as a unique opportunity her students. dedication to PSF,” says Producing Artistic for teachers to allow students to experience Director Patrick Mulcahy. “We are extraordi- In those years, she welcomed The live performances right in their own school, narily grateful.” Linny Fowler WillPower Tour—PSF’s paired with educational resources and inter- educational touring company—to perform active workshops. As a sponsor for PSF’s 28th season, Valerie looks forward to becoming even more for the entire 8th grade class. Each fall, After many years, Valerie had the oppor- the WillPower Tour brings a fully pro- involved with the Festival and spending anoth- tunity to see another WillPower production er rewarding summer contributing to PSF’s duced 80-minute touring production of a again in the fall of 2018, this time at her Shakespeare play to more than 13,000 stu- season. She adds, “It's a dream come true for grandchildren’s school. n dents across Pennsylvania and New Jersey. me to be the Season Sponsor for 2019!” RHINE GETAWAY:

ENTER FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN an eight-day getaway for two! TICKETS $100 • ONLY 400 WILL BE SOLD

Winner drawn Sunday, August 4. Need not be present to win.

Enjoy an eight-day river cruise Visit Switzerland, France, Germany and the Netherlands with stateroom accommodations with stops in Basel, Cologne, Strasbourg, and Amsterdam

Experience the spectacular scenery of the Explore turreted fortresses, grand cathedrals, Middle Rhine, one of Europe’s best-loved rivers historic cities, and medieval towns Total Prize Value: $6,500 For tickets or more information, contact [email protected] or visit pashakespeare.org/raffle www.pashakespeare.org The Quill, Spring 2019 • 15 NONPROFIT ORG. U.S. POSTAGE PAID LEHIGH VALLEY, PA The Professional Theatre at DeSales University Permit 68 2755 Station Avenue Center Valley, PA 18034 610.282.WILL PaShakespeare.org Proud partner with

2019 Season Sponsor: Valerie Morit Smith WORLD CLASS

N e w Y k QUA LIT Y PROFESSIONAL

By brandon e. McLauren

By William Shakespeare SCHUBERT THEATRE MAY 31 to AUGUST 3

“Extreme Shakespeare” Righting wrongs and making quick escapes are only half the fun. Robin No directors. No designers. Hood, Maid Marian, and a merry band of Just great actors, a brilliant adventurers seek freedom and vitality in Sherwood Forest. A delightful adventure SCHUBERT THEATRE play, pure adrenaline, spontaneity, and creativity. for kids ages three to tween. JULY 24 to AUGUST 4