Saturday, May 30, 2009
Theatre--Review (Cite Des Arts)
Ray Blum reviews the Cite Des Arts production of The Miracle Worker (directed by Bruce Coen), but the review is unfortunately not available on their website.
Theatre--Performance
Cité des Arts continues with The Miracle Worker, written by William Gibson. This is an incredible show and wonderful for the entire family! Director, Bruce Coen, has put together a marvelous cast, especially the two lead characters: Sarah Gauthier as Annie Sullivan and Colette Soileau as Helen Keller. The show also stars Zoe Antoine, Cody Brown, Chelsea Charles, Steve Eichoff, Brady Higginbotham, Rachel LeBlanc, Gene Ogle, Jack Sorenson, Margo Uter. Set design by Walter Brown.
This story portrays the volatile, emotional relationship between the lonely teacher, Annie Sullivan and her blind charge, Helen Keller. Helen, trapped in her silent, secret world, is bitter, violent, spoiled and almost animal-like. Annie's success with Helen comes only after some of the most turbulent, emotionally intense scenes ever presented. Also an important part of this story is how the Keller family and their relationships with one another were affected during this time. The story of Helen Keller is one of the most admired plays of the modern stage.
WHEN: May 30-–June 6 (Thursdays – Saturdays) at 7:30pm
WHERE: Cité des Arts, 109 Vine St., downtown Lafayette
COST: $15 for Adults, $10 for Senior Citizens and Students; Groups of 10 or more
(all tickets $10.00)
For reservations, please contact Cité at 337-291-1122.
This story portrays the volatile, emotional relationship between the lonely teacher, Annie Sullivan and her blind charge, Helen Keller. Helen, trapped in her silent, secret world, is bitter, violent, spoiled and almost animal-like. Annie's success with Helen comes only after some of the most turbulent, emotionally intense scenes ever presented. Also an important part of this story is how the Keller family and their relationships with one another were affected during this time. The story of Helen Keller is one of the most admired plays of the modern stage.
WHEN: May 30-–June 6 (Thursdays – Saturdays) at 7:30pm
WHERE: Cité des Arts, 109 Vine St., downtown Lafayette
COST: $15 for Adults, $10 for Senior Citizens and Students; Groups of 10 or more
(all tickets $10.00)
For reservations, please contact Cité at 337-291-1122.
Theatre--Performance
The cast list for the UL-Opera Theatre production of Isabel, the world premiere musical adaptation of Shakespeare's Measure for Measure, has been announced.
Isabel....................................Jenee Luquette
Duke.....................................Nathan Abbott
Angelo...................................Brian Sanford
Mistress Overdone....................Sasha Massey
Pompey.................................Cody Daigle
Marianna...............................Alex Hollerman
Escalus..................................Andre Courville
Claudio..................................Kevin Credeur
Barnardine............................Nick Manzo
Abhorson...............................Nathan Martin
Lucio......................................Josh Coen
Elbow.....................................Nathan Martin
Friar Peter..............................Nick Manzo
Provost...................................Duncan Thistlethwaite
Juliet......................................Carolyn Broussard
Nun........................................Natalie Girard
Angelo's Man/Gentleman........Nathanael Trahan
Isabel....................................Jenee Luquette
Duke.....................................Nathan Abbott
Angelo...................................Brian Sanford
Mistress Overdone....................Sasha Massey
Pompey.................................Cody Daigle
Marianna...............................Alex Hollerman
Escalus..................................Andre Courville
Claudio..................................Kevin Credeur
Barnardine............................Nick Manzo
Abhorson...............................Nathan Martin
Lucio......................................Josh Coen
Elbow.....................................Nathan Martin
Friar Peter..............................Nick Manzo
Provost...................................Duncan Thistlethwaite
Juliet......................................Carolyn Broussard
Nun........................................Natalie Girard
Angelo's Man/Gentleman........Nathanael Trahan
Thursday, May 28, 2009
Theatre--Performance
Shawn Roy (left in both photos) and Jared LeBlanc rehearse for the UL-Lafayette Opera Theatre production of Old Wicked Songs, opening in Fletcher Hall on The UL campus on June 19th.
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
Theatre--Audition
Walter Brown will hold auditions for Columbo(yes, the TV show) on Saturday and Sunday, May 30 and 31 at 1 PM at the Duchamp Opera House located at the corner of Hwy 31 and Hwy 96 (just off Church Square). He is looking for a middle-aged or older male (one scene) and two women. One woman plays the victim and should be middle aged. She has two scenes. The other woman will play mid-thirties or older and has several scenes. Performances run the three weekends after Labor Day. The two smaller roles would be good for someone with limited rehearsal availability.
For information on either production, contact Walter Brown at 235-6284 or by e-mail at wfj5552@cs.com.
For information on either production, contact Walter Brown at 235-6284 or by e-mail at wfj5552@cs.com.
Theatre--Audition
Kirk Borel seeks two men to play John Adams and Thomas Jefferson in The American Heritage Show. There will be a limited number of rehearsals and the show runs from the last weekend in June through the first two weekends in July. Adams and Jefferson appear in a ten minute scene. This is a patriotic-themed show with skits and music.
For information, contact Walter Brown at 235-6284 or by email at wfj5552@cs.com
For information, contact Walter Brown at 235-6284 or by email at wfj5552@cs.com
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
Theatre--Production
Iberia Performing Arts League (IPAL) announces that its summer production, The Dixie Swim Club, by Jessie Jones, Nicholas Hope and Jamie Wooten will open on June 4th at IPAL's Essanee Theater in New Iberia.
The play is a comedy/drama that deals with the very different lives of five Southern women who met as members of their college championship swim team and formed a lifelong bond of friendship. Reviewers have called this a hilarious and touching comedy about friendships that last forever. It is the perfect start to the summer season.
Directed by Mac Stearns, the cast includes Joyce Case as Sheree-–the team captain, Susan Clark as Dinah-–a prominent attorney, Stephanie Judice as Lexie--an often married event planner, Gladys Chapman as Jeri Neal-–a ditzy ray of sunshine and Donna Berard as Vernadette-–one constantly followed by a black cloud.
There will be seven public performances of The Dixie Swim Club on June 4th,5th,6th,11th,12th and 13th (Thursday through Saturday with a 7:30 pm curtain) and one Sunday matinee on June 7th at 3 pm.
Tickets are $10 and may be purchased at Paul’s Flower Shop, Delaune’s Pharmacy, or Accentrics in New Iberia or at the door.
Additional information may be obtained by calling IPAL at (337)364-6114.
The play is a comedy/drama that deals with the very different lives of five Southern women who met as members of their college championship swim team and formed a lifelong bond of friendship. Reviewers have called this a hilarious and touching comedy about friendships that last forever. It is the perfect start to the summer season.
Directed by Mac Stearns, the cast includes Joyce Case as Sheree-–the team captain, Susan Clark as Dinah-–a prominent attorney, Stephanie Judice as Lexie--an often married event planner, Gladys Chapman as Jeri Neal-–a ditzy ray of sunshine and Donna Berard as Vernadette-–one constantly followed by a black cloud.
There will be seven public performances of The Dixie Swim Club on June 4th,5th,6th,11th,12th and 13th (Thursday through Saturday with a 7:30 pm curtain) and one Sunday matinee on June 7th at 3 pm.
Tickets are $10 and may be purchased at Paul’s Flower Shop, Delaune’s Pharmacy, or Accentrics in New Iberia or at the door.
Additional information may be obtained by calling IPAL at (337)364-6114.
Theatre--Review (Cite Des Arts)
The Miracle Worker by William Gibson, directed by Bruce Coen, will be presented at Cite Des Arts at 7:30 pm, Thursdays through Saturdays, May 28st-June 6th.
Many of us of a certain age remember the 1962 movie of the same name. The plot is simple. Helen Keller (1880-1968) is left blind, deaf and mute after a bout with scarlet fever or meningitis when she is an infant. She lives in a dark silent world, terrifying her helpless family with uncontrollable rages. A half-blind Yankee school girl, Annie Sullivan (1866-1936), is hired to care for her and possibly teach her some rudimentary skills. It’s Annie’s success in breaking the barrier between Helen and the sentient world, the climactic scene in the play, that is the miracle.
Helen went on to have an exceptionally productive life. But she recalled, “The most important day I remember in all my life is the one on which my teacher, Anne Mansfield Sullivan, came to me.”
The Cite production is as good as community theatre gets because of Bruce Coen’s vision. He chose an ideal cast and behind-the-scenes collaborators. The set, designed by the master Walter Brown, gave the illusion of spaciousness in the intimate confines of the theater. Steve Eichoff and Joseph Diaz were in the “booth” managing sound and light. I mention these fellows because they make the difference between an enjoyable evening and a memorable one.
The smaller roles helped bring humanity and warmth to the play. Viney (Chelsea Charles), Percy (Cody Charles) and Martha (Zoe Antoine), the housekeeper and her children, were humorous and cute – a release from otherwise serious business. Dr. Anagos (Gene Ogle) had the right balance of sympathy and concern. Aunt Ev (Margo Uter) was perfectly annoying as a busy-body relative. Jimmy Keller (Brady Higginbotham) was an obnoxious selfish little twit until the final scene. NOTE!- To Margo and Brady: I’m paying you compliments on your acting!
Kate Keller (Rachael LeBlanc) and Captain Keller (Jack Sorenson), Helen’s parents, were loving, conflicted, full of despair, hopeful, hopeless – in fact, how I imagine I would feel if Helen were my child.
Of course, the ultimate success of the play rests on Helen (Colette Soileau) and Annie (Sarah Gauthier) in these very physical parts. These roles, in the movie anyway, were career makers for Patty Duke and Anne Bancroft. It is unfortunate that Colette and Sarah won’t get any rewards past the final curtain on June 6. They are that good!
Just a footnote: It’s unfortunate that this production didn’t occur during the school year. It’s as much a part of the American cultural landscape as the perennial high school favorites, To Kill A Mockingbird and The Diary Of Anne Frank.
---Robert D. Sidman, Ph.D.
Many of us of a certain age remember the 1962 movie of the same name. The plot is simple. Helen Keller (1880-1968) is left blind, deaf and mute after a bout with scarlet fever or meningitis when she is an infant. She lives in a dark silent world, terrifying her helpless family with uncontrollable rages. A half-blind Yankee school girl, Annie Sullivan (1866-1936), is hired to care for her and possibly teach her some rudimentary skills. It’s Annie’s success in breaking the barrier between Helen and the sentient world, the climactic scene in the play, that is the miracle.
Helen went on to have an exceptionally productive life. But she recalled, “The most important day I remember in all my life is the one on which my teacher, Anne Mansfield Sullivan, came to me.”
The Cite production is as good as community theatre gets because of Bruce Coen’s vision. He chose an ideal cast and behind-the-scenes collaborators. The set, designed by the master Walter Brown, gave the illusion of spaciousness in the intimate confines of the theater. Steve Eichoff and Joseph Diaz were in the “booth” managing sound and light. I mention these fellows because they make the difference between an enjoyable evening and a memorable one.
The smaller roles helped bring humanity and warmth to the play. Viney (Chelsea Charles), Percy (Cody Charles) and Martha (Zoe Antoine), the housekeeper and her children, were humorous and cute – a release from otherwise serious business. Dr. Anagos (Gene Ogle) had the right balance of sympathy and concern. Aunt Ev (Margo Uter) was perfectly annoying as a busy-body relative. Jimmy Keller (Brady Higginbotham) was an obnoxious selfish little twit until the final scene. NOTE!- To Margo and Brady: I’m paying you compliments on your acting!
Kate Keller (Rachael LeBlanc) and Captain Keller (Jack Sorenson), Helen’s parents, were loving, conflicted, full of despair, hopeful, hopeless – in fact, how I imagine I would feel if Helen were my child.
Of course, the ultimate success of the play rests on Helen (Colette Soileau) and Annie (Sarah Gauthier) in these very physical parts. These roles, in the movie anyway, were career makers for Patty Duke and Anne Bancroft. It is unfortunate that Colette and Sarah won’t get any rewards past the final curtain on June 6. They are that good!
Just a footnote: It’s unfortunate that this production didn’t occur during the school year. It’s as much a part of the American cultural landscape as the perennial high school favorites, To Kill A Mockingbird and The Diary Of Anne Frank.
---Robert D. Sidman, Ph.D.
Theatre--Auditions
The Acadia Players are pleased to announce the upcoming auditions for their teen dinner theater production of Séance in Acadia. This is a wonderful opportunity for young people to get involved in the theater. Rehearsals have been scheduled so as not to conflict with school, sports or church activities. The play is being directed by P. E. Ronkartz and Jessica Curiel. Both directors are teachers in the Acadia Parish gifted and talented programs.
Youth ages 13 to 17 are encouraged to audition for the 6 roles. Auditions will be held from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. on Tuesday, May 26th and Thursday, May 28th at the First Presbyterian Church Crowley. Casting will be completed and notification will be made by June 1. Those who are cast will be able to pick up their contracts from the Crowley Flower Shop beginning June 1. Rehearsals will be at the First Presbyterian Church in Crowley from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. beginning on Sunday June 7 and will be held every Sunday through August when performances will be held.
The performances will be on Saturdays between August 15 and September 12 at area restaurants.
Youth ages 13 to 17 are encouraged to audition for the 6 roles. Auditions will be held from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. on Tuesday, May 26th and Thursday, May 28th at the First Presbyterian Church Crowley. Casting will be completed and notification will be made by June 1. Those who are cast will be able to pick up their contracts from the Crowley Flower Shop beginning June 1. Rehearsals will be at the First Presbyterian Church in Crowley from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. beginning on Sunday June 7 and will be held every Sunday through August when performances will be held.
The performances will be on Saturdays between August 15 and September 12 at area restaurants.
Saturday, May 23, 2009
Theatre/Dance--Performance
The UL-Lafayette Opera Theatre will be presenting the world premiere of Isabel on July 26th, 2009. Among many singing and non-singing roles, there are also two dances at the end of the Opera. Melinda Caubarreaux, choreographer, is looking for 6 to 8 dancers who are technically trained and can commit to a once a week rehearsal beginning June 9th. This is open to any trained dancer in high school or college.
If you are interested, please contact Melinda at 337.349.7206 or email mindycaub@yahoo.com
If you are interested, please contact Melinda at 337.349.7206 or email mindycaub@yahoo.com
Thursday, May 21, 2009
Theatre--Auditions
The auditions for the UL-Lafayette Opera Theatre's world premiere production of Isabel will be held in the orchestra room at Angelle Hall from 5 pm to 9 pm on Friday, May 29th. Callback auditions will be held on Saturday, May 30th at 1 pm.
Theatre--Performance
On the morning of August 6, 1945, two year old Sadako Sasaki was playing in her home in Hiroshima, Japan. Her happy morning was instantly devastated by a noise louder than a hundred thunders and a blaze of light brighter than a thousand suns. While she “survived” the atomic bomb’s blast, eight years later, as a result of her exposure to nuclear radiation, the ten-year old girl was diagnosed with leukemia.
According to a Japanese superstition, if someone folds 1000 origami paper cranes, he or she will be granted one wish. Young Sadako had only one “simple” desire - to survive her terrible infirmity, to live. Alas, her wish was not granted because, shortly after the rapidly weakening youngster folded 644 cranes, leukemia took yet another victim. In her memory, her schoolmates folded the remaining 365 cranes.
At Hiroshima’s Peace Memorial Park, located at Ground Zero, there is a monument in honor of Sadako Sasaki, built as a result of money collected by school children from all of Japan. At the top of the monument stands a statue of Sadako, holding a crane in her hands. In homage, not of her death, but of her courageous young life, every day thousands of origami paper cranes arrive in Hiroshima and are placed at the statue’s base, a tribute from people all over the world
This June, some of the young students from Lafayette’s Firelight Performing Arts Academy are traveling to New York to perform A Thousand Paper Cranes, a one-act play honoring not only Sadako, but all victims of leukemia – both those who have survived and those who have fallen. Performing at 1:00 p.m on June 12th at the Off-Broadway Shelter Studios Theatre 54 on West 54th Street, the cast includes 25 young troupers representing 5 Acadiana parishes. In addition to their considerable talents, the young actors and actresses will bring a thousand paper cranes with them. After their performance, they and their artistic director, Laura Blum, will place the origami birds at another ground zero, where the Twin Towers once stood, praying, as Sadako Sasaki once did, for peace and hope.
In addition to the younger performers, 5 of the older students will perform a re-enactment of a 1950’s radio show, Candy Matson, P.I.: The Cable Car Murder. Candy Matson was the private eye star of Candy Matson, YUKON 2-8208. The troupe will recreate the sights and sounds of a mid-20th Century radio broadcast center, complete with sound effects, singing talent, and commercials.
The third element of the show will be singing selections performed by the academy’s Broadway Singers. Prior to the troupe’s departure to New York, they will perform A Thousand Paper Cranes and Candy Matson locally-- at Cité des Arts on June 8th and at Acadiana Open Channel on the 9th. Both presentations will begin at 7:00 p.m. Admission to either show is one paper crane.
For information about the play, the group’s New York adventure, or for directions on how to fold cranes, contact 857-6991.
According to a Japanese superstition, if someone folds 1000 origami paper cranes, he or she will be granted one wish. Young Sadako had only one “simple” desire - to survive her terrible infirmity, to live. Alas, her wish was not granted because, shortly after the rapidly weakening youngster folded 644 cranes, leukemia took yet another victim. In her memory, her schoolmates folded the remaining 365 cranes.
At Hiroshima’s Peace Memorial Park, located at Ground Zero, there is a monument in honor of Sadako Sasaki, built as a result of money collected by school children from all of Japan. At the top of the monument stands a statue of Sadako, holding a crane in her hands. In homage, not of her death, but of her courageous young life, every day thousands of origami paper cranes arrive in Hiroshima and are placed at the statue’s base, a tribute from people all over the world
This June, some of the young students from Lafayette’s Firelight Performing Arts Academy are traveling to New York to perform A Thousand Paper Cranes, a one-act play honoring not only Sadako, but all victims of leukemia – both those who have survived and those who have fallen. Performing at 1:00 p.m on June 12th at the Off-Broadway Shelter Studios Theatre 54 on West 54th Street, the cast includes 25 young troupers representing 5 Acadiana parishes. In addition to their considerable talents, the young actors and actresses will bring a thousand paper cranes with them. After their performance, they and their artistic director, Laura Blum, will place the origami birds at another ground zero, where the Twin Towers once stood, praying, as Sadako Sasaki once did, for peace and hope.
In addition to the younger performers, 5 of the older students will perform a re-enactment of a 1950’s radio show, Candy Matson, P.I.: The Cable Car Murder. Candy Matson was the private eye star of Candy Matson, YUKON 2-8208. The troupe will recreate the sights and sounds of a mid-20th Century radio broadcast center, complete with sound effects, singing talent, and commercials.
The third element of the show will be singing selections performed by the academy’s Broadway Singers. Prior to the troupe’s departure to New York, they will perform A Thousand Paper Cranes and Candy Matson locally-- at Cité des Arts on June 8th and at Acadiana Open Channel on the 9th. Both presentations will begin at 7:00 p.m. Admission to either show is one paper crane.
For information about the play, the group’s New York adventure, or for directions on how to fold cranes, contact 857-6991.
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
Theatre---Performance
Cité des Arts presents The Miracle Worker, opening Thursday, May 21st. This production stars Sarah Gauthier as Annie Sullivan and Colette Soileau as Helen Keller. The set, which is always such an integral part of the production, was designed by Walter Brown.
This story portrays the volatile, emotional relationship between the
lonely teacher, Annie Sullivan and her blind charge, Helen Keller.
Helen, trapped in her silent, secret world, is bitter, violent,
spoiled and almost animal-like. Annie's success with Helen comes only
after some of the most turbulent, emotionally intense scenes ever
presented. Also an important part of this story is how the Keller
family and their relationships with one another were affected during
this time. The story of Helen Keller is one of the most admired plays
of the modern stage. A wonderful show for the entire family!!
WHEN: May 21 – June 6 (Thursdays – Saturdays) at 7:30pm
WHERE: Cité des Arts, 109 Vine St., downtown Lafayette
COST: $15 for Adults, $10 for Senior Citizens and Students; Groups of
10 or more (all tickets $10.00)
For reservations, please contact Cité at 337-291-1122.
This story portrays the volatile, emotional relationship between the
lonely teacher, Annie Sullivan and her blind charge, Helen Keller.
Helen, trapped in her silent, secret world, is bitter, violent,
spoiled and almost animal-like. Annie's success with Helen comes only
after some of the most turbulent, emotionally intense scenes ever
presented. Also an important part of this story is how the Keller
family and their relationships with one another were affected during
this time. The story of Helen Keller is one of the most admired plays
of the modern stage. A wonderful show for the entire family!!
WHEN: May 21 – June 6 (Thursdays – Saturdays) at 7:30pm
WHERE: Cité des Arts, 109 Vine St., downtown Lafayette
COST: $15 for Adults, $10 for Senior Citizens and Students; Groups of
10 or more (all tickets $10.00)
For reservations, please contact Cité at 337-291-1122.
Theatre--Auditions
The Acadiana Repertory Theatre is seeking 10 individuals of various ages to be a part of our founding company. Those cast will be up for various roles throughout the year (including the Rocky Horror Show), in addition to helping out with various other projects. Auditioners need a classical AND a contemporary monologue, each about a minute to a minute and a half long, as well as a song, which will be sung acapella, 16 to 30 measures long. To reserve your audition spot, or for more information, please call one of the Managing Artistic Directors (Blaine Peltier at 337-212-4471 or Steven Landry at 337-849-0687.)
Date: Saturday, June 27, 2009
Time: 9:00am - 3:00pm
Location: Acadiana Symphony Orchestra Building
Street: 412 Travis St., in the Oil Center
City/Town: Lafayette, LA
Date: Saturday, June 27, 2009
Time: 9:00am - 3:00pm
Location: Acadiana Symphony Orchestra Building
Street: 412 Travis St., in the Oil Center
City/Town: Lafayette, LA
Friday, May 15, 2009
Theatre--Review (Eunice Players' Theatre)
Ray blum reviews the Eunice Players' production of Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf? in the Friday, May 15th edition of the Daily Advertiser.
Thursday, May 14, 2009
Theatre--Auditions
The Acadiana Repertory Theatre is seeking 10-20 individuals of various ages to be a part of our founding company. Those cast will be up for various roles throughout the year, in addition to helping out with various other projects. The company feels that they have the opportunity to do something that Lafayette and Acadiana deserve and need! Those wishing to audition need to prepare a classical and a contemporary monologue, about a minute to a minute and a half long. Auditioners also need a song, which will be sung acapella, 16 to 30 measures long. It is not necessary to be a singer to be in the Company; the purpose is to see what the auditioner can do for the musical roles offered.) To reserve an audition spot, or for more information, please call one of the Managing Artistic Directors (Blaine Peltier at 337-212-4471 or Steven Landry at 337-849-0687.) Also, for those who are not actors/singers with something else to offer (designer, technician, etc.), please contact the company to inform them of your talents/services.
Date: Saturday, May 16, 2009
Time: 9:00 am - 3:00 pm
Location: Acadiana Symphony Orchestra Building in the Oil Center
Street: 412 Travis St.
City/Town: Lafayette, LA
Date: Saturday, May 16, 2009
Time: 9:00 am - 3:00 pm
Location: Acadiana Symphony Orchestra Building in the Oil Center
Street: 412 Travis St.
City/Town: Lafayette, LA
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
Theatre--Performance/Fundraiser
The Mystery Dinner Theatre scheduled for this Thursday, May 14th at Baileys Restaurant has had to be rescheduled to Thursday, June 18th. They apologize for any inconvenience this may have caused. The location will still be at Baileys Restaurant on Johnston Street and Cite Des Arts will still need the assistance of guests to deal with an IRS agent who may be in attendance. Proceeds from this event go towards helping Cité des Arts continue to provide the quality programming that the community has come to expect. Once again the event will be held Ema Haq and his crew at Bailey’s will provide a wonderful dining experience, including steak with all of the trimmings. Special arrangements can be made for those who would like something different.
Guests never know who is involved and they are an integral part of solving the crime.
Title: Who Trusts the IRS?
Roger Reese, renowned consumer advocate will be the guest speaker for this community gathering. He will be discussing certain questionable tactics of some IRS Agents. This information will be particularly useful for the affluent and charitable citizens attending the dinner this evening who need to be prepared to respond to the more "irregular" demands of some IRS agents. It is rumored that one of these agents, an IRS supervisor for the Gulf States regions, will be in attendance. Woodie Woodruth has recently been shadowing Mr. Reese, attempting to intimidate him into silence. Mr. Reese is not easily intimidated and remains determined to alert the public to the scams of such agents, despite the frequent fireworks that accompany their confrontations.
WHEN: Thursday, June 18th; Cash bar at 6:30pm; Dinner and Show at 7:00pm.
WHERE: Bailey’s Restaurant, 5520 Johnston St., Lafayette
COST: $65.00, Proceeds go to help Cité des Arts
For tickets and additional information, please contact Cité des Arts at 337-291-1122
Guests never know who is involved and they are an integral part of solving the crime.
Title: Who Trusts the IRS?
Roger Reese, renowned consumer advocate will be the guest speaker for this community gathering. He will be discussing certain questionable tactics of some IRS Agents. This information will be particularly useful for the affluent and charitable citizens attending the dinner this evening who need to be prepared to respond to the more "irregular" demands of some IRS agents. It is rumored that one of these agents, an IRS supervisor for the Gulf States regions, will be in attendance. Woodie Woodruth has recently been shadowing Mr. Reese, attempting to intimidate him into silence. Mr. Reese is not easily intimidated and remains determined to alert the public to the scams of such agents, despite the frequent fireworks that accompany their confrontations.
WHEN: Thursday, June 18th; Cash bar at 6:30pm; Dinner and Show at 7:00pm.
WHERE: Bailey’s Restaurant, 5520 Johnston St., Lafayette
COST: $65.00, Proceeds go to help Cité des Arts
For tickets and additional information, please contact Cité des Arts at 337-291-1122
Theatre--Performance
The Abby Players patron's/premiere night performance of Cheating Cheaters, a truly funny and warm-hearted play by one of the American theatre's comedic masters, is Friday, May 15th. This time the action involves the hilarious adventures of two lovably larcenous sisters who impersonate begging nuns in order to put their niece through art school--at least until the police catch up with them and their virtuous ward pays an unexpected visit. Doors open and food served promptly at 7 pm; the show starts at 8 pm. The $35.00 ticket for this opening event includes dinner, two drinks, dessert at intermission and the show.
For more information, or for reservations, visit the Abbey Players website or call (337) 893-2442.
For more information, or for reservations, visit the Abbey Players website or call (337) 893-2442.
Monday, May 11, 2009
Theatre--Performance
Cité des Arts opens with the second production of our 2009 theatre season, The Miracle Worker, starring Sarah Gauthier and Colette Soileau and directed by Bruce Coen. This story portrays the volatile, emotional relationship between the lonely teacher, Annie Sullivan and her blind charge, Helen Keller. Helen, trapped in her silent, secret world, is bitter, violent, spoiled and almost animal-like. Annie's success with Helen comes only after some of the most turbulent, emotionally intense scenes ever presented. The story of Helen Keller is one of the most admired plays of the modern stage.
WHEN: May 21 – June 6 (Thursdays – Saturdays) at 7:30pm
WHERE: Cité des Arts, 109 Vine St., downtown Lafayette
COST: $15 for adults, $10 for senior citizens and students
For reservations, please call Cité at 337-291-1122.
WHEN: May 21 – June 6 (Thursdays – Saturdays) at 7:30pm
WHERE: Cité des Arts, 109 Vine St., downtown Lafayette
COST: $15 for adults, $10 for senior citizens and students
For reservations, please call Cité at 337-291-1122.
Theatre--Performance
Cité des Arts presents our 2nd Murder Mystery Dinner for this season. Proceeds from this event go towards helping Cité des Arts continue to provide the quality programming that the community has come to expect. Once again the event will be held at Bailey’s Restaurant on Johnston Street. Ema Haq and his crew at Bailey’s will provide a wonderful dining experience, including steak with all of the trimmings. Special arrangements can be made for those who would like something different.
Guests never know who is involved and they are an integral part of solving the crime.
Title: Who Trusts the IRS?
Roger Reese, renowned consumer advocate will be the guest speaker for this community gathering. He will be discussing certain questionable tactics of some IRS Agents. This information will be particularly useful for the affluent and charitable citizens attending the dinner this evening who need to be prepared to respond to the more "irregular" demands of some IRS agents. It is rumored that one of these agents, an IRS supervisor for the Gulf States regions, will be in attendance. Woodie Woodruth has recently been shadowing Mr. Reese, attempting to intimidate him into silence. Mr. Reese is not easily intimidated and remains determined to alert the public to the scams of such agents. This is despite the frequent fireworks that accompany their confrontations.
WHEN: Thursday, May 14th; Cash bar at 6:30pm; Dinner and Show at 7:00pm.
WHERE: Bailey’s Restaurant, 5520 Johnston St., Lafayette
COST: $65.00, Proceeds go to help Cité des Arts
For tickets and additional information, please contact Cité des Arts at 337-291-1122
Guests never know who is involved and they are an integral part of solving the crime.
Title: Who Trusts the IRS?
Roger Reese, renowned consumer advocate will be the guest speaker for this community gathering. He will be discussing certain questionable tactics of some IRS Agents. This information will be particularly useful for the affluent and charitable citizens attending the dinner this evening who need to be prepared to respond to the more "irregular" demands of some IRS agents. It is rumored that one of these agents, an IRS supervisor for the Gulf States regions, will be in attendance. Woodie Woodruth has recently been shadowing Mr. Reese, attempting to intimidate him into silence. Mr. Reese is not easily intimidated and remains determined to alert the public to the scams of such agents. This is despite the frequent fireworks that accompany their confrontations.
WHEN: Thursday, May 14th; Cash bar at 6:30pm; Dinner and Show at 7:00pm.
WHERE: Bailey’s Restaurant, 5520 Johnston St., Lafayette
COST: $65.00, Proceeds go to help Cité des Arts
For tickets and additional information, please contact Cité des Arts at 337-291-1122
Theatre--Audition
The Evangeline Players will hold auditions for Columbo (Prescription Murder) at the Duchamp Opera House located at 200 S. Main St (Hwy 31) in St. Martinville at 1 pm on Saturday, May 30th and Sunday, May 31st. We need one woman to play in her 30's, one woman to play 40-60 and one woman of any age. We also need one man to play mid-30's or older. The two male leads are already cast. Performances will run September 11-27. This is the original Columbo script.
For more information, contact Walter Brown at 337-235-6284.
For more information, contact Walter Brown at 337-235-6284.
Friday, May 8, 2009
Theatre--Review
Ray Blum reviews Firelight Children's Theatre's production of Alice in Wonderland in the Friday, May 8th edition of the Daily Advertiser.
Thursday, May 7, 2009
Theatre--Performance
As the last show for the 2008-2009 school year, a member of the senior class of the LHS Performing Arts Academy Theatre Arts Department presents Three one acts by David Ives. The three one act plays are The Mystery at Twicknam Vicarage, Degas, C'est Moi, and Dr. Fritz.
The show will run Thursday, May 7th through Saturday, May 9th. All three shows will begin at 7:30 pm at the NP Moss Annex Black Box (located at 801 Mudd Ave in Lafayette).
As always, senior productions are FREE to the public, and all donations benefit the LHS Performing Arts Academy Theatre Arts Department.
The show will run Thursday, May 7th through Saturday, May 9th. All three shows will begin at 7:30 pm at the NP Moss Annex Black Box (located at 801 Mudd Ave in Lafayette).
As always, senior productions are FREE to the public, and all donations benefit the LHS Performing Arts Academy Theatre Arts Department.
Theatre--Auditions
Isabel, a world premiere musical written by Dr. James Burke (former faculty member of the UL-Lafayette School of Music) will be presented by the UL-Lafayette School of music later this summer. The show is based on Shakespeare's Measure for Measure. The show will be done in a semi-staged version and conducted by Gerald Guilbeaux and directed by Shawn Roy, with script revisions by Cody Daigle.
Auditions will be held on May 29 with callbacks on the 30th and it is a rather large cast. Auditioners should be prepared to sing an entire song (in English)--they may chose from opera, operetta or musical theatre. Those who chose to sing a musical theatre selection should be aware that the music in the show is reminiscent of older style productions, like those written by Irving Berlin or Cole Perter, and chose accordingly. They should also be prepared for cold-readings.
Additional information on the location and times of the audition will be provided as it becomes available.
The only performance will be in Angelle Hall on Sunday, July 26 at 3pm.
Auditions will be held on May 29 with callbacks on the 30th and it is a rather large cast. Auditioners should be prepared to sing an entire song (in English)--they may chose from opera, operetta or musical theatre. Those who chose to sing a musical theatre selection should be aware that the music in the show is reminiscent of older style productions, like those written by Irving Berlin or Cole Perter, and chose accordingly. They should also be prepared for cold-readings.
Additional information on the location and times of the audition will be provided as it becomes available.
The only performance will be in Angelle Hall on Sunday, July 26 at 3pm.
Theatre--Performance
Shawn Roy will present Old Wicked Songs this summer. The show is by Jon Marans and was nominated for a Pulitzer Prize. It is a 2 character play (Roy and Jared LeBlanc) and will be directed by Cody Daigle, assisted by Kathy Pooler, set design by Duncan Thistlewaite, and stage manager Nathan Abbott.
The performances will be in Fletcher Hall on June 19, 20 and 21 at 7:30 and 3PM on Sunday. Tickets will be available at the door only and are $15 for the general public and free for UL Lafayette students, staff and faculty.
The performances will be in Fletcher Hall on June 19, 20 and 21 at 7:30 and 3PM on Sunday. Tickets will be available at the door only and are $15 for the general public and free for UL Lafayette students, staff and faculty.
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
Theatre--Workshop/Camp
This is a correction to the previous poster (which has been removed and replaced with a corrected edition). This press release has the correct information. Please disregard the information from the last poster.
The Evangeline Players of St. Martinville will be holding a youth drama camp this summer for ages 6 – 16 at the Duchamp Opera House in St. Martinville, LA. The camp, under the direction of Adel-Catherine Comeaux, will run for two weeks (June 8-12 and June 15-19) from 8 AM to Noon, Monday through Friday, and culminate in a matinee performance on Saturday, June 20. Cost per camper is $50.00. As part of the camp, campers will participate in various acting exercises and will be introduced to some of the technical aspects of theatre, such as lighting, set design, and costume design. Steve Comeaux Photography &Design will provide professional headshots for each camper.
This year’s camp production will be The Boudreaux & Thibodeaux Show, a showcase of some of Louisiana’s best-loved comedic characters and their crazy adventures. This show is sure to keep you and your family laughing.
For more information, e-mail: epdramacamp@gmail.com
The Evangeline Players of St. Martinville will be holding a youth drama camp this summer for ages 6 – 16 at the Duchamp Opera House in St. Martinville, LA. The camp, under the direction of Adel-Catherine Comeaux, will run for two weeks (June 8-12 and June 15-19) from 8 AM to Noon, Monday through Friday, and culminate in a matinee performance on Saturday, June 20. Cost per camper is $50.00. As part of the camp, campers will participate in various acting exercises and will be introduced to some of the technical aspects of theatre, such as lighting, set design, and costume design. Steve Comeaux Photography &Design will provide professional headshots for each camper.
This year’s camp production will be The Boudreaux & Thibodeaux Show, a showcase of some of Louisiana’s best-loved comedic characters and their crazy adventures. This show is sure to keep you and your family laughing.
For more information, e-mail: epdramacamp@gmail.com
Sunday, May 3, 2009
Opera--Review
Here are three secrets to help you decide whether to check out the next opera performance to come to town.
The first secret is that prior to World War I opera was meant to be mass entertainment. Opera occupied the same niche then that Rent, Chorus Line and The Lion King occupy now. Opera plots are simple and action oriented and every aria is intended to sweep you off your feet with wonderful melodies and lots of technical bravado. What's not to like? Well, OK--there are the dry spells known as recitative which can sound a lot like Gregorian chant. It's the dialog in opera and in many operas it is just frankly spoken. And there is the language barrier. Even sung in English, the libretto is often indecipherable. But you can bone up the story ahead and most programs give you a plot synopsis anyway. If illiterate peasants could follow the plot, you can too.
The second secret is that the days of stand and deliver performance are pretty much over. Opera performances are now held to the same standards as Broadway musicals. The directing and acting are expected to be lively and engaging.
The third secret is that almost any live performance is preferable to almost any recorded performance. I have seen recordings, including filmed versions, of performances that I attended and the recording is ALWAYS disappointing. There is a magic to live performance that cannot be captured electronically.
The Marriage Of Figaro is one of Mozart's most popular pieces. It is based on a cheeky comedy of manners which shows that men and women of all classes are pretty much the same when it comes to love. The libretto--if you speak Italian--is pretty clever but not really the point. The point is the music, all of which is instantly hummable with toe-tappin' rhythm. Given a game and attractive cast, a showman for a director and a decent physical production, this is really can't-fail stuff.
The UL Opera Guild and the Acadiana Symphony joined forces to present The Marriage Of Figaro this past weekend with two performances using hired professionals and the Sunday matinee being performed by UL students. I expect the professional production will be reviewed elsewhere. I wanted to see the student version and I thoroughly enjoyed it. So did the rest of the audience who gave it a standing ovation.
For the student singers, this is a great opportunity to play iconic characters. The students haven't done this show enough to be jaded--it is still exciting to them and their enthusiasm is well-used by Shawn Roy who knows his musical theatre. The performances sparkled, the action was nicely staged and the sets were attractive--especially the garden set. The students are lucky to have Shawn Roy to guide them because Shawn knows how to sell a show with a combination of razzle-dazzle and disciplined technique. The orchestra sounded great and let me repeat, you hear things in a live performance that you will not hear in a recording.
If you missed this production, you missed a real treat. Promise yourself that you will try to catch the next one. And look for Shawn Roy's name in the credits. It's a guarantee of quality.
The first secret is that prior to World War I opera was meant to be mass entertainment. Opera occupied the same niche then that Rent, Chorus Line and The Lion King occupy now. Opera plots are simple and action oriented and every aria is intended to sweep you off your feet with wonderful melodies and lots of technical bravado. What's not to like? Well, OK--there are the dry spells known as recitative which can sound a lot like Gregorian chant. It's the dialog in opera and in many operas it is just frankly spoken. And there is the language barrier. Even sung in English, the libretto is often indecipherable. But you can bone up the story ahead and most programs give you a plot synopsis anyway. If illiterate peasants could follow the plot, you can too.
The second secret is that the days of stand and deliver performance are pretty much over. Opera performances are now held to the same standards as Broadway musicals. The directing and acting are expected to be lively and engaging.
The third secret is that almost any live performance is preferable to almost any recorded performance. I have seen recordings, including filmed versions, of performances that I attended and the recording is ALWAYS disappointing. There is a magic to live performance that cannot be captured electronically.
The Marriage Of Figaro is one of Mozart's most popular pieces. It is based on a cheeky comedy of manners which shows that men and women of all classes are pretty much the same when it comes to love. The libretto--if you speak Italian--is pretty clever but not really the point. The point is the music, all of which is instantly hummable with toe-tappin' rhythm. Given a game and attractive cast, a showman for a director and a decent physical production, this is really can't-fail stuff.
The UL Opera Guild and the Acadiana Symphony joined forces to present The Marriage Of Figaro this past weekend with two performances using hired professionals and the Sunday matinee being performed by UL students. I expect the professional production will be reviewed elsewhere. I wanted to see the student version and I thoroughly enjoyed it. So did the rest of the audience who gave it a standing ovation.
For the student singers, this is a great opportunity to play iconic characters. The students haven't done this show enough to be jaded--it is still exciting to them and their enthusiasm is well-used by Shawn Roy who knows his musical theatre. The performances sparkled, the action was nicely staged and the sets were attractive--especially the garden set. The students are lucky to have Shawn Roy to guide them because Shawn knows how to sell a show with a combination of razzle-dazzle and disciplined technique. The orchestra sounded great and let me repeat, you hear things in a live performance that you will not hear in a recording.
If you missed this production, you missed a real treat. Promise yourself that you will try to catch the next one. And look for Shawn Roy's name in the credits. It's a guarantee of quality.
Theatre--Performance
From Jody Powell, the director of Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf?:
“Pow! You’re dead” is the line Blaine Peltier delivers to Deborah D. Ardoin as Gabe Ortego and Bonnie Pitre watch in fear in one of the many unsettling moments of Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?, being staged at the Eunice Players’ Theatre. The gun Peltier holds has a history uniquely tied to the play, as well as the subsequent movie. This is no ordinary stage prop; there are only a few of its kind in existence. Known as The Virginia Woolf Gun among stage prop rental houses, this particular one was actually used in the movie and handled by Richard Burton as he aimed it at Elizabeth Taylor.
Playwright Edward Albee conceived a gun with an unusual discharge, then set about to have it fabricated by Centre Firearms in New York City in preparation for the Broadway premiere in 1962. By the time the play closed in 1964, a movie version was in the works and the gun was sent to Los Angeles where Burton used it during filming. It later made its way back to its creator in the heart of Manhattan where it remains today. As Joe DeCunzo, owner of Center Firearms, explained to Jody L. Powell, director of the local play, “We only rent it out about twice a year now. Over the past 40 years, the play’s popularity ebbs and flows.” He’s proud to state that his shop has the original gun, even though certain parts have needed to be replaced over the years.
Theatre goers have a chance to view this iconic piece of Broadway and cinematic history when EPT opens its production with a matinee beginning Sunday, May 3 at 2:00. Other evening performances are Wednesday through Saturday, May 6 - 9 at 7:00 p.m. Tickets for these performances are $10 and available at David Ltd. Hair and Nail Salon on Second St. or by calling 546-0163. Dinner theatre is Tuesday, May 5 at 6:00 p.m. at Nick's on Second St., with the performance immediately following. Tickets are $25 and may be purchased at Nick's or by calling 457-4921. The theatre is located at 121 S. Second St. in Eunice. Visit their website.
Friday, May 1, 2009
Theatre--Performance
Last fall, the Abbey Players presented I Love You, You're Perfect, Now Change to sold out houses at their home theatre. Now the hit musical is traveling, along with the orginal Abbey Players' cast, to the Grand Opera House of the South in Crowley for two shows only: Friday, May 22nd and Saturday, May 23rd. Both shows begin at 8 pm. This lighthearted celebration of the mating game tackles the truths and myths behind the contemporary conundrum known as "the relationship". A frothy, fun look at the absurdity of love, this clever musical revue reveals the difficulties of connecting with another person, no matter what the age. This is the perfect date show. If you missed it at Abbey Players, don't miss it this time.
For more information, or for tickets, call (337)785-0440 or go to the show's website.
For more information, or for tickets, call (337)785-0440 or go to the show's website.
Theatre--Performance
The Abbey Players announces the opening of their newest production, Cheating Cheaters, on May 15th. Written by John Patrick and directed by Gloria Breaux, this is a truly funny and warm-hearted play by one of the American theatre's comedic masters. This time the action involves the hilarious adventures of two lovably larcenous sisters who impersonate begging nuns in order to put their niece through art school—at least until the police catch up with them and their virtuous ward pays an unexpected visit. The show will run every Friday and Saturday through June 27th. All evening shows begin at 8 pm. There will be two Sunday matinees--May 31st and June 14th.
For more information, or for tickets, visit the Abbey Players' website or call (337) 893-2442.
For more information, or for tickets, visit the Abbey Players' website or call (337) 893-2442.
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