IPAL is holding auditions for Moon Over Buffalo on Monday, June 22 and Tuesday, June 23rd at 6 pm at the Essanee Theatre in New Iberia. There are a number of characters in the show; character descriptions are below:
GEORGE HAY--Egotistical head of the theater company, in his 50's, quite the ham, with a tendency to drown his sorrows when the going gets a bit bumpy. He is husband to Charlotte, father to Rosalind, and son-in-law to Ethel. He has had an illicit relationship with Eileen that has borne unexpected fruit.
CHARLOTTE HAY--Ambitious, flamboyant actress, who feels she never quite made it to the top tier of her profession, though she feels she deserved that. In her 50's, she is wife to George, mother to Rosalind, and daughter to Ethel. She is admired by Richard, who would love to steal her away from George. She is flattered by the attention, but is loyal to George - at least until she learns about Eileen.
ETHEL--In her 70's, actress and wardrobe mistress for the theater company. Hard of hearing, but sharp of tongue, she is mother to Charlotte, grandmother to Rosalind, and (most pointedly of all) mother-in-law to George. She has some of the funniest lines in the play.
ROSALIND (or ROZ--Bright and attractive, in her 20's or 30's, she is daughter to George and Charlotte and granddaughter to Ethel. A former actress in the company, she now yearns to leave that life behind and lead a "normal" life with her newfound love, Howard. She and Paul used to be an item.
HOWARD--Late 20's, very good-natured and quite good-looking. He is Rosalind's fiance and terribly nervous about meeting his future in-laws. In awe of show business, he likes to think he is part of that profession - even though he is only a TV weatherman.
EILEEN--Young and very beautiful, she is the current ingenue of the theater company. Enamored with George, she has had a brief fling with him that has produced (forgive the euphemism) a plot complication.
PAUL--In his 30's, good-looking in a rough-and-ready sort of way, and very likeable. He is Company Manager for the theater group, as well as one of the actors. He used to date Rosalind, but she ditched him because he refused to give up the theater.
RICHARD--Good-looking, quite lovable, 50's, dresses in a conservative suit and tie. He is the Hays' lawyer and represents every major star in Hollywood. He is constantly making a play for Charlotte.
Saturday, June 20, 2009
Friday, June 19, 2009
Theatre--Master Class/Workshop
Caroline McGee, an alumna of ULL, will be offering a July 2009 workshop based on Lee Strasberg's legendary Method technique of actor training. This class will mirror the famed Strasberg program for young actors in New York City, where she served as Director for both their Professional and New York University BFA Acting Programs from 2006-2009.
Caroline McGee
From Angelina Jolie, Adam Sandler and James Dean to Marilyn Monroe, Al Pacino and Robert DeNiro, the great actors have studied and applied Strasberg's exercises to invoke a sense of truth and an original interpretation devoid of cliche and dull expression.
Beyond specific actor training, the Method inspires the personal growth of each student in developing self-discipline, concentration and creativity. Caroline is looking for imaginative, curious and committed students. Beginning to advanced levels are encouraged to apply since the exercises are individually oriented. Ages 13 and older are considered; an interview and application are required. Enrollment is limited. Classes will be held at ULL from July 27-31, 3 hours per day, times TBA.
In March 2009, McGee was promoted to the position of Director of the Professional Program at New York University's Stonestreet Studio which specializes in Acting for Film & TV for the Tisch School of the Arts Undergraduate Drama and professional students.
Current projects at Stonestreet Studios include a workshop with the graduates of the famed Moscow Art Theatre Training Program, where modern actor training techniques by Stanislavski originated in concert with the plays of Anton Chekhov; a film series in collaboration with The Anne Frank Foundation's Independent Thinkers Series; and work on the new play by Edward Albee Fellow, Lindsey Ferrentino.
She offers a noted career in teaching, managing and administering professional and MFA and BFA acting programs, including the MFA Acting Program at The Catholic University of America, in Washington, DC, as Director and Associate Professor from 1997-2004.
Her training includes a Master's Degree from the University of California at Berkeley in Directing, Theatre History, Literature & Criticism; actor training with Robert Lewis at The Yale School of Drama; a 2-year acting certificate at the Conservatoire Nationale in Strasbourg, France, on a CODOFIL scholarship. She studied acting professionally in New York City with master teachers William Esper, Michael Howard, Stella Adler, Wynn Handman and Elaine Aiken(the Strasberg Method). She has performed at Yale Repertory Theater, Williamstown Theater Festival, NY Shakespeare Festival, Opera Theatre of St. Louis, and in films by Woody Allen and Norman Jewison, with Gregory Peck, Gina Rowland and Gregory Peck, among many others. She is a member of all three actor unions, Actors Equity Association, Screen Actors Guild, and AFTRA.
Caroline's work in the theatre encompasses directing, having toured original pieces nationally and internationally. She performed her one-woman piece, Lache pas la Patate, at ULL's Bijou Theatre for the 300th Anniversary of the French in Louisiana. Woman Bomb/Sade, her latest play, written with Allan Graubard, was recently featured in the HotInk International Play Festival in New York City. It explores the world of female suicide bombers questioning the reasons women follow such a violent path of self- destruction.
A still from McGee's production of Leonce and Lena
Caroline's parents are Sylvia and Dean McGee, farmers in the Richard area; 4 siblings, folklorist and local historian Dr. Donna McGee Onebane, Advantage Wealth Manager Gary McGee, Liz McGee Smith, mother of six, and Joseph McGee, a medical courier, all of Lafayette.
For an application and more information for the July workshop, send an e-mail query to: Caroline@stonestreet.pro
Caroline McGee
From Angelina Jolie, Adam Sandler and James Dean to Marilyn Monroe, Al Pacino and Robert DeNiro, the great actors have studied and applied Strasberg's exercises to invoke a sense of truth and an original interpretation devoid of cliche and dull expression.
Beyond specific actor training, the Method inspires the personal growth of each student in developing self-discipline, concentration and creativity. Caroline is looking for imaginative, curious and committed students. Beginning to advanced levels are encouraged to apply since the exercises are individually oriented. Ages 13 and older are considered; an interview and application are required. Enrollment is limited. Classes will be held at ULL from July 27-31, 3 hours per day, times TBA.
In March 2009, McGee was promoted to the position of Director of the Professional Program at New York University's Stonestreet Studio which specializes in Acting for Film & TV for the Tisch School of the Arts Undergraduate Drama and professional students.
Current projects at Stonestreet Studios include a workshop with the graduates of the famed Moscow Art Theatre Training Program, where modern actor training techniques by Stanislavski originated in concert with the plays of Anton Chekhov; a film series in collaboration with The Anne Frank Foundation's Independent Thinkers Series; and work on the new play by Edward Albee Fellow, Lindsey Ferrentino.
She offers a noted career in teaching, managing and administering professional and MFA and BFA acting programs, including the MFA Acting Program at The Catholic University of America, in Washington, DC, as Director and Associate Professor from 1997-2004.
Her training includes a Master's Degree from the University of California at Berkeley in Directing, Theatre History, Literature & Criticism; actor training with Robert Lewis at The Yale School of Drama; a 2-year acting certificate at the Conservatoire Nationale in Strasbourg, France, on a CODOFIL scholarship. She studied acting professionally in New York City with master teachers William Esper, Michael Howard, Stella Adler, Wynn Handman and Elaine Aiken(the Strasberg Method). She has performed at Yale Repertory Theater, Williamstown Theater Festival, NY Shakespeare Festival, Opera Theatre of St. Louis, and in films by Woody Allen and Norman Jewison, with Gregory Peck, Gina Rowland and Gregory Peck, among many others. She is a member of all three actor unions, Actors Equity Association, Screen Actors Guild, and AFTRA.
Caroline's work in the theatre encompasses directing, having toured original pieces nationally and internationally. She performed her one-woman piece, Lache pas la Patate, at ULL's Bijou Theatre for the 300th Anniversary of the French in Louisiana. Woman Bomb/Sade, her latest play, written with Allan Graubard, was recently featured in the HotInk International Play Festival in New York City. It explores the world of female suicide bombers questioning the reasons women follow such a violent path of self- destruction.
A still from McGee's production of Leonce and Lena
Caroline's parents are Sylvia and Dean McGee, farmers in the Richard area; 4 siblings, folklorist and local historian Dr. Donna McGee Onebane, Advantage Wealth Manager Gary McGee, Liz McGee Smith, mother of six, and Joseph McGee, a medical courier, all of Lafayette.
For an application and more information for the July workshop, send an e-mail query to: Caroline@stonestreet.pro
Theatre--Review (Omni Artiste)
Ray Blum's review of the Omni Artiste production of Fabulation, or the Re-education of Undine appears in the Friday, June 19th edition of the Daily Advertiser.
Monday, June 15, 2009
Theatre--Performance
Jon Maran's insightful play Old Wicked Songs is being presented by the UL Lafayette Opera Theater. This is a two-person play about a young American prodigy's journey to Vienna to study piano and rekindle his passion for playing, but discovers he is being made to take voice lessons for three months with an old world Viennese voice teacher who has issues of his own. The play tells the story of an inspiring summer and deals with issues of acceptance and healing, and Robert Schumann's beautiful music of his song cycle "Dichterliebe."
The show stars Shawn Roy as the professor and Jared LeBlanc as the pianist. It was directed by Cody Daigle.
There will only be three performances on Father's Day weekend:
June 19 at 7:30pm
June 20 at 7:30pm
June 21 at 3pm
It will take place in Fletcher Hall on the ULL campus.
$15 general admission and free for UL Lafayette students, faculty and staff.
The show stars Shawn Roy as the professor and Jared LeBlanc as the pianist. It was directed by Cody Daigle.
There will only be three performances on Father's Day weekend:
June 19 at 7:30pm
June 20 at 7:30pm
June 21 at 3pm
It will take place in Fletcher Hall on the ULL campus.
$15 general admission and free for UL Lafayette students, faculty and staff.
Friday, June 12, 2009
Theatre--Audition
Auditions for the IPAL production of The Importance of Being Uncle Roscoe will be held on September 28 and 29 at 6:00 pm at IPAL (the old Essanee Theater in New Iberia, La.) For more information, call Donna Berard (the director)at (337) 229-6919.
Theatre--Audition
The Iberia Performing Arts League will hold open auditions for Ken Ludwig's backstage farce, Moon Over Buffalo, on Monday, June 22 and Tuesday, June 23 at 6 PM. The auditions will be at the Essanee Theatre, located on Iberia Street between Main and St. Peter. They need 4 men and 4 women varying in age and including one grandmother. This play is not suitable for children.
For more information, please call IPAL at (337) 364-6114.
For more information, please call IPAL at (337) 364-6114.
Theatre--Performances
The Acadia Players are presenting Steel Magnolias starting tonight and running through the weekend.
The action is set in Truvy's beauty salon in Chinquapin, Louisiana, where all the ladies who are "anybody" come to have their hair done. Helped by her eager new assistant, Annelle (who is not sure whether or not she is still married), the outspoken, wise-cracking Truvy dispenses shampoos and free advice to the town's rich curmudgeon, Ouiser, ("I'm not crazy, I've just been in a bad mood for forty years"); an eccentric millionaire, Miss Clairee, who has a raging sweet tooth; and the local social leader, M'Lynn, whose daughter, Shelby (the prettiest girl in town), is about to marry a "good ole boy." Filled with hilarious repartee and not a few acerbic buy humorously revealing verbal collision, the play moves toward tragedy when, in the second act, the spunky Shelby (who is a diabetic) risks pregnancy and forfeits her life. The sudden realization of their mortality affects the others, but also draws on the underlying strength -and love- which gives the play, an its characters, the special quality to make them truly touching, funny and marvelously amiable company in good times and bad.
Shows are at the Crowley Rice Theatre. The Friday and Saturday night performances will begin at 7 pm and the Sunday show is a matinee starting at 2 pm. Tickets are available at the Crowley Flower Shop, at the door or online from the website.
The action is set in Truvy's beauty salon in Chinquapin, Louisiana, where all the ladies who are "anybody" come to have their hair done. Helped by her eager new assistant, Annelle (who is not sure whether or not she is still married), the outspoken, wise-cracking Truvy dispenses shampoos and free advice to the town's rich curmudgeon, Ouiser, ("I'm not crazy, I've just been in a bad mood for forty years"); an eccentric millionaire, Miss Clairee, who has a raging sweet tooth; and the local social leader, M'Lynn, whose daughter, Shelby (the prettiest girl in town), is about to marry a "good ole boy." Filled with hilarious repartee and not a few acerbic buy humorously revealing verbal collision, the play moves toward tragedy when, in the second act, the spunky Shelby (who is a diabetic) risks pregnancy and forfeits her life. The sudden realization of their mortality affects the others, but also draws on the underlying strength -and love- which gives the play, an its characters, the special quality to make them truly touching, funny and marvelously amiable company in good times and bad.
Shows are at the Crowley Rice Theatre. The Friday and Saturday night performances will begin at 7 pm and the Sunday show is a matinee starting at 2 pm. Tickets are available at the Crowley Flower Shop, at the door or online from the website.
Thursday, June 11, 2009
Theatre--Performance
The Dixie Swim Club enters its final weekend of performance at IPAL.
Susan Clark, Gladys Chapman, Stephanie Judice, Joyce Case, and Donna Berard in The Dixie Swim Club.
Top row (from left to right): Donna Berard and Stephanie Judice
Bottom row (from left to right): Joyce Case, Susan Clark and Gladys Chapman
For more information, or for tickets, call IPAL at (337) 364-6114.
Susan Clark, Gladys Chapman, Stephanie Judice, Joyce Case, and Donna Berard in The Dixie Swim Club.
Top row (from left to right): Donna Berard and Stephanie Judice
Bottom row (from left to right): Joyce Case, Susan Clark and Gladys Chapman
For more information, or for tickets, call IPAL at (337) 364-6114.
Saturday, June 6, 2009
Theatre--Performance
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. 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.
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 more information, please call (337) 232-4434
1950's radio show, Candy Matson, P.I.: The Cable Car Murder.
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 more information, please call (337) 232-4434
Theatre--Benefit (Cite Des Arts)
The Mystery Dinner Theatre, a benefit for Cite Des Arts, has been rescheduled for Thursday, June 18th. The organizers apologize for any inconvenience this may have caused. The location will still be at Baileys Restaurant on Johnston St.and the assistance of guests to deal with an IRS agent who may be in attendance is still necessary. 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. This is 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. This is 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.
Friday, June 5, 2009
Theatre--Performance
Omni Artiste Productions, Inc opens its next production, Fabulation or, The Re-Education of Undine by Lynn Nottage, at Cite Des Arts on Friday, June 12th at 7:30 pm at Cite Des Arts in Lafayette.
Ths show is a social satire about an ambitious and haughty African-American woman, whose husband suddenly disappears after embezzling all of her money. Pregnant and on the brink of social and financial ruin, Undine retreats to her childhoold home in the projects.
The show will run Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from June 12th until June 21st. Friday and Saturday shows will begin at 7:30 pm and Sunday shows will start at 3:00 pm.
For more information, or for tickets, please call Cite Des Arts at (337) 291-1122.
Ths show is a social satire about an ambitious and haughty African-American woman, whose husband suddenly disappears after embezzling all of her money. Pregnant and on the brink of social and financial ruin, Undine retreats to her childhoold home in the projects.
The show will run Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from June 12th until June 21st. Friday and Saturday shows will begin at 7:30 pm and Sunday shows will start at 3:00 pm.
For more information, or for tickets, please call Cite Des Arts at (337) 291-1122.
Theatre--Performance
Back by popular demand is Eulalie And Grosbecs, two Cajun one-acts by Clayelle Dalfreyes and Stuart Stelly starring Sandra Broussard and Shane Guilbeau. The show will be presented on the Second Stage at Cité Des Arts on Saturday June 6th at 7:30PM. Tickets are $12. For reservations, please contact Cité at 337-291-1122.
The Miracle Worker remains the Main Stage production this weekend.
The Miracle Worker remains the Main Stage production this weekend.
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.
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
Theatre--Auditions
Cité des Arts and director Charlee Halphen will hold auditions for Beth Henley’s Pulitzer Prize winning play Crimes Of The Heart. The show opens July 9th and runs through the 25th. The auditions will take place at Cité des Arts on Wednesday, May 6th and Thursday, May 7th from 6-8pm. Auditioners should prepare a one minute contemporary monologue and bring a headshot and resume if available. Callbacks will be held on Monday, May 11th from 6-8pm.
Character Breakdown:
Lenny Magrath, 30, the oldest sister
Chick Boyle, 29, the sisters’ first cousin
Doc Porter, 30, Meg’s old boyfriend
Meg Magrath, 27, the middle sister
Babe Botrelle, 24, the youngest sister
Barnette Lloyd, 26, Babe’s lawyer
For additional information, please contact Cité des Arts at 337-291-1122.
Character Breakdown:
Lenny Magrath, 30, the oldest sister
Chick Boyle, 29, the sisters’ first cousin
Doc Porter, 30, Meg’s old boyfriend
Meg Magrath, 27, the middle sister
Babe Botrelle, 24, the youngest sister
Barnette Lloyd, 26, Babe’s lawyer
For additional information, please contact Cité des Arts at 337-291-1122.
Theatre--Auditions
Iberia Performing Arts League (IPAL) is proud to announce tryouts for its summer musical, Disney's Aladdin, Jr. The magic of Disney's classic has been captured for the stage and will be performed July 17th through the 26th on IPAL's main stage. Tryouts for the musical are scheduled for Saturday, May 9th from 12:00 noon until 2:00 pm and Sunday, May 10th from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm at the Essanee Theatre on 126 Iberia Street. People auditioning must be at least ten years old and no older than twenty-five, and those interested in singing roles can bring prepared sheet music for the music director to play. There are parts for anyone interested and all parts are open. For more information, contact Vincent P. Barras at vpbarras@aol.com.
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
Theatre--Performance
After weeks of rehearsal, the cast of Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf? is ready to open the show. The three-act peek into the fictional lives of George, Martha, Nick and Honey, written by Edward Albee and directed by Jody L. Powell, is the first show of the Eunice Players' Theatre's 40th anniversary season.
Written and set in the early 1960’s, the play focuses on George and Martha, played by Blaine Peltier and Deborah D. Ardoin respectively. Despite how deeply they care for each other, events have turned their marriage into a repetition of insults fueled by alcohol. When Gabe Ortego’s Nick and Bonnie Pitre’s Honey stop in for a drink one night, they are unable to escape being used as pawns in their hosts’ psychological games. While the storyline may sound distasteful, it does make for an entertaining night at the theatre - TV dramas and reality shows don’t get any better than this! Despite the show’s len gth, the actors’ snappy banter keeps the action moving and the audience will find sharp humor in many of the sequences.
The cast has jelled to a point where they bring out the best in each other as actors. Rehearsals have bred familiarity, adding believability and realism to the characters. Audiences will witness daring performances, enhanced by period costumes and hairstyles, a set design conveying realism, and specialized lighting and sound effects. Considering the subject matter, and the brief amount of smoking on stage (with stage prop cigarettes), this play is intended for mature audiences.
The play begins with a matinee on Sunday, May 3 at 2:00 p.m. Eve ning 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 the website: http://euniceplayers.blogspot.com.
Season tickets may still be purchased by calling 457-2156 or 546-0163. For $20 a season ticket includes 3 shows, reservation rights, voting privileges and an invitation to the 40th Annual Irving Awards. Angel and patron packages are also available for purchase. The theatre is located at 121 S. Second St. in Eunice.&n bsp;
Written and set in the early 1960’s, the play focuses on George and Martha, played by Blaine Peltier and Deborah D. Ardoin respectively. Despite how deeply they care for each other, events have turned their marriage into a repetition of insults fueled by alcohol. When Gabe Ortego’s Nick and Bonnie Pitre’s Honey stop in for a drink one night, they are unable to escape being used as pawns in their hosts’ psychological games. While the storyline may sound distasteful, it does make for an entertaining night at the theatre - TV dramas and reality shows don’t get any better than this! Despite the show’s len gth, the actors’ snappy banter keeps the action moving and the audience will find sharp humor in many of the sequences.
The cast has jelled to a point where they bring out the best in each other as actors. Rehearsals have bred familiarity, adding believability and realism to the characters. Audiences will witness daring performances, enhanced by period costumes and hairstyles, a set design conveying realism, and specialized lighting and sound effects. Considering the subject matter, and the brief amount of smoking on stage (with stage prop cigarettes), this play is intended for mature audiences.
The play begins with a matinee on Sunday, May 3 at 2:00 p.m. Eve ning 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 the website: http://euniceplayers.blogspot.com.
Season tickets may still be purchased by calling 457-2156 or 546-0163. For $20 a season ticket includes 3 shows, reservation rights, voting privileges and an invitation to the 40th Annual Irving Awards. Angel and patron packages are also available for purchase. The theatre is located at 121 S. Second St. in Eunice.&n bsp;
Theatre--Auditions
The Opelousas Little Theatre is holding auditions for the production of Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory.
Dates:
Tuesday, April 28 @ 6:00 PM
Saturday, May 2 @ 10:00 AM
Auditions are open to people of all ages. Come to auditions prepared with a 1 minute monologue and a song. Wear comfortable clothes and shoes.
Questions?
Ask: Ashley Brown
Phone (337) 308-7108
Dates:
Tuesday, April 28 @ 6:00 PM
Saturday, May 2 @ 10:00 AM
Auditions are open to people of all ages. Come to auditions prepared with a 1 minute monologue and a song. Wear comfortable clothes and shoes.
Questions?
Ask: Ashley Brown
Phone (337) 308-7108
Monday, April 27, 2009
Theatre--Acting Workshop (Film)
Combining a casting call with an instructional seminar, the Cinematic Arts Workshop invites college-age participants for an afternoon of “Acting for the Camera” on Friday.
The Cinematic Arts Workshop is seeking male and female participants in the age range of 18-25, dressed in contemporary college attire, to perform as extras for a scene in a professional movie. The scene: an ivy-league college auditorium filled with students attending a lecture. Some extras may be selected for larger speaking roles. The movie is directed by Tom Krueger, the Cinematic Arts Workshop’s Artist-in-Residence.
No acting experience is necessary. Krueger will direct participants extensively in a workshop format so that participants gain educational experience from an internationally acclaimed director of photography. Krueger’s work includes music videos for U2, Bob Dylan, REM and Bruce Springsteen. Samples of his work can be seen at www.tomkrueger.com.
Interested participants should report to the UL's Griffin Hall, Room 215, at 1 p.m. Friday for the shoot. For more information, please call 482-5474.
The Cinematic Arts Workshop is seeking male and female participants in the age range of 18-25, dressed in contemporary college attire, to perform as extras for a scene in a professional movie. The scene: an ivy-league college auditorium filled with students attending a lecture. Some extras may be selected for larger speaking roles. The movie is directed by Tom Krueger, the Cinematic Arts Workshop’s Artist-in-Residence.
No acting experience is necessary. Krueger will direct participants extensively in a workshop format so that participants gain educational experience from an internationally acclaimed director of photography. Krueger’s work includes music videos for U2, Bob Dylan, REM and Bruce Springsteen. Samples of his work can be seen at www.tomkrueger.com.
Interested participants should report to the UL's Griffin Hall, Room 215, at 1 p.m. Friday for the shoot. For more information, please call 482-5474.
Thursday, April 23, 2009
Theatre--Performance
IPAL is preparing to present The Dixie Swim Club in June. This play is a special presentation not on IPAL's regular season schedule, and replaces the planned production of To Kill a Mockingbird. The Dixie Swim Club by Jessie Jones, Nicholas Hope and Jamie Wooton is the story of five southern women who became friends many years ago on their college swim team. They meet for a long weekend every August at the same North Carolina beach cottage to recharge their friendship. Starting with the characters in middle age, the play covers several of these weekends over a period of thirty-three years as the ladies catch up and meddle in each other's lives. One reviewer calls it "a hilarious and touching comedy about friendships that last forever." Director Mac Stearns has cast Donna Berard, Joyce Case, Gladys Chapman, Stephanie Judice and Susan Clark as the five women. Performances are scheduled for June 4th through the 14th.
Theatre--Performance
The IPAL presentation of Educating Rita, presented in cooperation with Cite Des Arts and with their permission, opens tonight at 7:30 and will run for two weeks.
Erin Segura as Rita White in Educating Rita
Vincent P. Barras as Frank in Educating Rita
Erin Segura as Rita White in Educating Rita
Vincent P. Barras as Frank in Educating Rita
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
Theatre--Performance
Catholic High School is presenting You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown, a musical based on the "Peanuts" comic strips by Charles M. Schulz with music and lyrics by Clark Gesner and Andrew Lippa. The show is directed by Jack Sorenson with assistance from student Travis Guillory (who also choreographed the show). Tickets are $8 in advance (available at the school) or $10 at the door. The performances will take place in the school cafeteria.
PERFORMANCE DATES:
Tuesday, April 28 at 7 pm
Wednesday, April 29 at 7 pm
Thursday, April 30 at 7 pm
CAST:
Charlie Brown-Phillip Smith
Snoopy-Travis Guillory
Lucy van Pelt-Lanie Marcantel
Linus van Pelt-Sarah Leonard
Schroeder-Lauren Broussard
Sally Brown-Cindy Broussard
PERFORMANCE DATES:
Tuesday, April 28 at 7 pm
Wednesday, April 29 at 7 pm
Thursday, April 30 at 7 pm
CAST:
Charlie Brown-Phillip Smith
Snoopy-Travis Guillory
Lucy van Pelt-Lanie Marcantel
Linus van Pelt-Sarah Leonard
Schroeder-Lauren Broussard
Sally Brown-Cindy Broussard
Theatre--Performance
Lafayette High School presents Little Shop of Horrors! opening to the public on Thursday, April 23rd and running until Saturday, April 25th. Tickets are $7 and are available in the front office of the school. Performances begin at 7 pm.
Theatre--Performance
On May 1st through 10th, the 50 cast members of Firelight Children’s Theatre will perform their version of the children’s classic Alice in Wonderland. Under the direction of Laura Blum, the play features not only fanciful costumes and surreal sets, but also the high quality performance level for which the troupe is known. Performances, which are held at Cite des Arts, 109 Vine St, in downtown Lafayette, will be held in the evenings on May 1, 2, 8 and 9 at 7:00 p.m., with matinees presented on May 2, 3, 9, 10 at 3:00 p.m. For reservations or other performance information, call 291-1122.
Theatre--Summer Camp/Workshop
For parents looking for a summer activity that is focused not only on fun but on learning as well, Firelight Children’s Theatre has a perfect solution. For every summer in the past five years, the organization’s director, Laura Blum has presented a series of summer day-camps with a focus on performing arts. The camps are broken into two interest groups: all phases of acting, and Broadway-style singing.
The acting camp for children ages 5 through 8 starts on July 20 to August 2. T’Lights will meet on Monday through Thursday from 2:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. With the exception of the final performance, all activities will take place in Firelight Children’s Theatre in Milton. The campers will learn acting, dancing and singing skills, along with memorization techniques, while working on a musical production of Mable’s Fables, which will be performed at Cite des Arts on July 31st and August 1st at 7:00 p.m. and on August 1 and 2 at 3:00 p.m.. In 2005, troupe members performed Mable’s Fables, which was written by Laura Blum, at Orlando’s Disney World.
Performers age 9 and above will enjoy the Firelight Children’s Theatre Camp, which will present Pinocchio as their play. Campers will learn acting, dancing, and singing, along with memorization techniques while working on the musical production. The camp will be held from July 13 to August 2nd on Mondays through Thursdays from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. in Milton, LA. Pinocchio will be performed, along with Mable’s Fables, on July 31 and August 1.
The acting camp for children ages 5 through 8 starts on July 20 to August 2. T’Lights will meet on Monday through Thursday from 2:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. With the exception of the final performance, all activities will take place in Firelight Children’s Theatre in Milton. The campers will learn acting, dancing and singing skills, along with memorization techniques, while working on a musical production of Mable’s Fables, which will be performed at Cite des Arts on July 31st and August 1st at 7:00 p.m. and on August 1 and 2 at 3:00 p.m.. In 2005, troupe members performed Mable’s Fables, which was written by Laura Blum, at Orlando’s Disney World.
Performers age 9 and above will enjoy the Firelight Children’s Theatre Camp, which will present Pinocchio as their play. Campers will learn acting, dancing, and singing, along with memorization techniques while working on the musical production. The camp will be held from July 13 to August 2nd on Mondays through Thursdays from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. in Milton, LA. Pinocchio will be performed, along with Mable’s Fables, on July 31 and August 1.
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
Theatre--Performance
Another three local actors are moving from area stages to new venues. Allison Barron, Michael Caffery, Jr. and Evan Melancon will all be appearing this summer in the Tulane Summer Lyric Theatre's production of Oliver!
This is taken from the Mission Statement of the Summer Lyric Theatre:
Summer Lyric Theatre is a musical theatre performing organization based on the campus of Tulane University. Summer Lyric's mission is to preserve one of America's greatest art forms by producing the highest quality musical theatre. Our theatre exists to support and expand musicians, actors, singers, dancers, technical artists and most important, students of promise, as well as those whom are already established by bringing together both the university's resources and the community.
Each season Summer Lyric Theatre employs the talents of over 200 paid and volunteer actors, singers, dancers, musicians, directors, choreographers, designers and technical artists. Hundreds of individuals audition each year to be a part of the Summer Lyric experience, an experience many characterize as among the best and most professional theatrical opportunities in the Gulf South region. This standard of artistic excellence, for which Summer Lyric is known, has become a hallmark and gives young emergent talent the opportunity to work alongside professionals in a truly collaborative atmosphere.
Barron is well-known to local musical theatre audiences. A BFA graduate of UL-Lafayette, she has been featured in the UL productions of Les Miserables, Suessical the Musical, Into The Woods and Urinetown. She also starred as Eliza Doolittle in the IPAL production of My Fair Lady. Currently living and working in New Orleans, Allison is taking her first steps into the theatre world there.
Caffery is a familiar face at IPAL, having appeared in that production of Oliver! He has also been seen in Hello, Dolly, Fiddler on the Roof, My Fair Lady and Little Shop of Horrors. He is currently a biochemistry major at Tulane University.
Melancon is a theatre student at UL-Lafayette. He was last seen in IPAL's Little Shop of Horrors, and has appeared in a number of Firelight Children's Theatre's productions (including Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat), as well as shows from St. Mary's Church in Lafayette (Fiddler on the Roof).
Oliver! will run from June 18th through the 21st. For more information, please check the Tulane Summer Lyric Theatre's website.
This is taken from the Mission Statement of the Summer Lyric Theatre:
Summer Lyric Theatre is a musical theatre performing organization based on the campus of Tulane University. Summer Lyric's mission is to preserve one of America's greatest art forms by producing the highest quality musical theatre. Our theatre exists to support and expand musicians, actors, singers, dancers, technical artists and most important, students of promise, as well as those whom are already established by bringing together both the university's resources and the community.
Each season Summer Lyric Theatre employs the talents of over 200 paid and volunteer actors, singers, dancers, musicians, directors, choreographers, designers and technical artists. Hundreds of individuals audition each year to be a part of the Summer Lyric experience, an experience many characterize as among the best and most professional theatrical opportunities in the Gulf South region. This standard of artistic excellence, for which Summer Lyric is known, has become a hallmark and gives young emergent talent the opportunity to work alongside professionals in a truly collaborative atmosphere.
Barron is well-known to local musical theatre audiences. A BFA graduate of UL-Lafayette, she has been featured in the UL productions of Les Miserables, Suessical the Musical, Into The Woods and Urinetown. She also starred as Eliza Doolittle in the IPAL production of My Fair Lady. Currently living and working in New Orleans, Allison is taking her first steps into the theatre world there.
Caffery is a familiar face at IPAL, having appeared in that production of Oliver! He has also been seen in Hello, Dolly, Fiddler on the Roof, My Fair Lady and Little Shop of Horrors. He is currently a biochemistry major at Tulane University.
Melancon is a theatre student at UL-Lafayette. He was last seen in IPAL's Little Shop of Horrors, and has appeared in a number of Firelight Children's Theatre's productions (including Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat), as well as shows from St. Mary's Church in Lafayette (Fiddler on the Roof).
Oliver! will run from June 18th through the 21st. For more information, please check the Tulane Summer Lyric Theatre's website.
Theatre--Performance (postponed/rescheduled)
From Jody Powell, director of Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf, the upcoming production of the Eunice Players' Theatre:
The show must go on! Such is the cry of many a director when faced with an unexpected turn of events that threatens to derail a production. And such is the attitude of director Jody L. Powell as she announces a new cast member and new dates for Eunice Players’ Theatre’s Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf by Edward Albee.
“Despite the need to make a change at this late date, we’re fortunate to have the very talented Blaine Peltier assume the role of George,” Powell stated. With a BFA in Theatre, Peltier has over 20 theatrical productions and 2 films under his belt. Peltier is currently the head of the Theatre Arts Department for the Lafayette High School Performing Arts Academy and he is a co-founder of Acadiana Repertory Theatre, Inc., a non-profit, professional theatre company. A quick study, Peltier is up to the challenge of taking on George, a role he’s been waiting for the chance to play. “I know the character; he’s complex and fascinating. Just reading his lines in the script and feeling his mood shifts puts me in the right mind set,” Peltier commented following his first rehearsal with the cast.
As Peltier becomes acclimated to the local stage, the cast and crew breathe a sigh of relief that their show will go on, albeit a week later.
The play will now open with a matinee on Sunday, May 3 at 2:00 p.m. 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.
Season ticket holders who made reservations should call the answering service to reserve a new date. Patrons who purchased individual tickets or a dinner ticket may exchange them for a different night by returning to the point of purchase. The Board of Directors regret any inconvenience this causes.
Season tickets may still be purchased by calling 457-2156 or 546-0163. For $20 a season ticket includes 3 shows, reservation rights, voting privileges and an invitation to the 40th Annual Irving Awards. Angel and patron packages are also available for purchase. The theatre is located at 121 S. Second St. in Eunice.
The show must go on! Such is the cry of many a director when faced with an unexpected turn of events that threatens to derail a production. And such is the attitude of director Jody L. Powell as she announces a new cast member and new dates for Eunice Players’ Theatre’s Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf by Edward Albee.
“Despite the need to make a change at this late date, we’re fortunate to have the very talented Blaine Peltier assume the role of George,” Powell stated. With a BFA in Theatre, Peltier has over 20 theatrical productions and 2 films under his belt. Peltier is currently the head of the Theatre Arts Department for the Lafayette High School Performing Arts Academy and he is a co-founder of Acadiana Repertory Theatre, Inc., a non-profit, professional theatre company. A quick study, Peltier is up to the challenge of taking on George, a role he’s been waiting for the chance to play. “I know the character; he’s complex and fascinating. Just reading his lines in the script and feeling his mood shifts puts me in the right mind set,” Peltier commented following his first rehearsal with the cast.
As Peltier becomes acclimated to the local stage, the cast and crew breathe a sigh of relief that their show will go on, albeit a week later.
The play will now open with a matinee on Sunday, May 3 at 2:00 p.m. 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.
Season ticket holders who made reservations should call the answering service to reserve a new date. Patrons who purchased individual tickets or a dinner ticket may exchange them for a different night by returning to the point of purchase. The Board of Directors regret any inconvenience this causes.
Season tickets may still be purchased by calling 457-2156 or 546-0163. For $20 a season ticket includes 3 shows, reservation rights, voting privileges and an invitation to the 40th Annual Irving Awards. Angel and patron packages are also available for purchase. The theatre is located at 121 S. Second St. in Eunice.
Monday, April 20, 2009
Theatre--Audition
Omni Artiste is looking for a WHITE MALE to play the 30-something boyfriend of a well-to-do Black woman. Her family is not thrilled by the relationship.
If you are interested, contact Dr. Alex Marshall as soon as possible at:
mars6853@bellsouth.net
If you are interested, contact Dr. Alex Marshall as soon as possible at:
mars6853@bellsouth.net
Theatre--Performance
Educating Rita opens on Thursday, April 23rd, and runs Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays at 7:30 pm, and Sundays until May 3rd at the Essenee Theatre in New Iberia. Rita White (Erin Segura), a hairdresser who wants to learn more, has signed up for an Open University course with a burnt-out has-been teacher named Frank (Vincent P. Barras), who has a fondness for alcohol. As he reluctantly prepares her for her examination, Frank discovers in her an eager mind and in himself the ability to be a good teacher again. It's a tale of redemption told through the lives of simple people who want more out of life.
Thursday, April 16, 2009
Theatre--Performance
The Baton Rouge Little Theater seems to be welcoming more and more performers from the Acadiana area. Barret Berard of New Iberia, who participated in quite a few IPAL productions and is now living in Baton Rouge, has been cast in the BRLT production of Born Yesterday, which opens on May 1st. Congratulations to Barret!
Theatre--Actor's Notes
Duncan Thistlethwaite will be opening in The Vertical Hour at the Baton Rouge Little Theatre this week. He wrote this note about his experiences with the show, parts of which appeared in The Times of Acadiana. Thanks to Duncan for sharing this with us, and break a leg!
Actors of a certain age develop an eagle eye for auditions which feature characters of a certain age, so when I got an audition emailer for the Baton Rouge Little Theater’s production of The Vertical Hour, my eye did its eagle thing: “Oliver – mid-fifties British physician.” Being verifiably ‘mid-fifties’ myself, I drove over the next day and read for Keith Dixon, the director of the play and BRLT’s Artistic Director. I was thrilled to get cast. The Vertical Hour is a fascinating piece, debuting on Broadway with Bill Nighy and Julienne Moore in the lead roles at a time when the invasion of Iraq and the resultant quagmire of mayhem and chaos were at the very forefront of the world’s political stage. On one level, it’s an exploration of the political, moral, and philosophical ideas surrounding the whole event, but one shouldn’t assume that the play is a screed for political diatribes or yet another blatant attack by the foes of the Bush administration. David Hare is much more subtle than that.
Yes, the play examines what happened in Iraq from several opposite polarities, but more important to the theater-goer are the characters who inhabit those polarites. The central dramatic line through the play is the relationships between those characters and not their political view-points. All the political yak-yak takes a back seat to what is happening between them personally, and what a bunch of interesting characters they are.
My character, Oliver Lucas is an English physician, a GP (general practitioner) who lives in the remote countryside on the Welsh border. I’d never done a British accent before, and my joy at being cast was immediately followed by near-panic as I realized I’d have to come up with a solid British accent. I began attacking that immediately, working with Paul Meier’s excellent Accents and Dialects for Stage and Screen, and quicker than I thought, I found Oliver’s voice, surprising myself that he didn’t sound like Dick Van Dyke in Mary Poppins (‘Allo Guv’nah!) or some over-the-top imitation of posh English aristocracy. Whew.
The script is demanding beyond accents. It is dense with ideas and high-stakes relationships. Oliver Lucas is wicked and sweet, smart and funny, kind and cruel, wounded and wounding, and all sorts of interesting things that are fun to play. I’ve never been presented with a character of his dimensions and depth. The play mainly focuses on the interplay between Oliver and Nadia Blye, his son’s American girlfriend who is an academic/journalist of high profile, much like CNN’s Christian Amonpour. They stand at their poles, fending with each other, using their political philosophies as a means to get at their personal truths. It’s a rich combination of things for an actor to play with: high stake personal relationships which are dismantled and rearranged through intense political discussions.
Keith Dixon is a nimble, accomplished director and has made the experience a joy from the get-go. Rehearsals are focused and business-like, yet fun and friendly at the same time. Part of the joy of being an actor is working through a script, refining moments and tweaking relationships, and Keith’s steady hand and clear view of what the play is about and who the characters are have made each session something I anticipate eagerly. The hour-plus commute to the theater out on Florida Boulevard in Baton Rouge isn’t even a minor hassle. It’s an asset really: a great opportunity to run lines (on the way there) and review what we just did (on the way back). I’m home before I know it.
Actors of a certain age develop an eagle eye for auditions which feature characters of a certain age, so when I got an audition emailer for the Baton Rouge Little Theater’s production of The Vertical Hour, my eye did its eagle thing: “Oliver – mid-fifties British physician.” Being verifiably ‘mid-fifties’ myself, I drove over the next day and read for Keith Dixon, the director of the play and BRLT’s Artistic Director. I was thrilled to get cast. The Vertical Hour is a fascinating piece, debuting on Broadway with Bill Nighy and Julienne Moore in the lead roles at a time when the invasion of Iraq and the resultant quagmire of mayhem and chaos were at the very forefront of the world’s political stage. On one level, it’s an exploration of the political, moral, and philosophical ideas surrounding the whole event, but one shouldn’t assume that the play is a screed for political diatribes or yet another blatant attack by the foes of the Bush administration. David Hare is much more subtle than that.
Yes, the play examines what happened in Iraq from several opposite polarities, but more important to the theater-goer are the characters who inhabit those polarites. The central dramatic line through the play is the relationships between those characters and not their political view-points. All the political yak-yak takes a back seat to what is happening between them personally, and what a bunch of interesting characters they are.
My character, Oliver Lucas is an English physician, a GP (general practitioner) who lives in the remote countryside on the Welsh border. I’d never done a British accent before, and my joy at being cast was immediately followed by near-panic as I realized I’d have to come up with a solid British accent. I began attacking that immediately, working with Paul Meier’s excellent Accents and Dialects for Stage and Screen, and quicker than I thought, I found Oliver’s voice, surprising myself that he didn’t sound like Dick Van Dyke in Mary Poppins (‘Allo Guv’nah!) or some over-the-top imitation of posh English aristocracy. Whew.
The script is demanding beyond accents. It is dense with ideas and high-stakes relationships. Oliver Lucas is wicked and sweet, smart and funny, kind and cruel, wounded and wounding, and all sorts of interesting things that are fun to play. I’ve never been presented with a character of his dimensions and depth. The play mainly focuses on the interplay between Oliver and Nadia Blye, his son’s American girlfriend who is an academic/journalist of high profile, much like CNN’s Christian Amonpour. They stand at their poles, fending with each other, using their political philosophies as a means to get at their personal truths. It’s a rich combination of things for an actor to play with: high stake personal relationships which are dismantled and rearranged through intense political discussions.
Keith Dixon is a nimble, accomplished director and has made the experience a joy from the get-go. Rehearsals are focused and business-like, yet fun and friendly at the same time. Part of the joy of being an actor is working through a script, refining moments and tweaking relationships, and Keith’s steady hand and clear view of what the play is about and who the characters are have made each session something I anticipate eagerly. The hour-plus commute to the theater out on Florida Boulevard in Baton Rouge isn’t even a minor hassle. It’s an asset really: a great opportunity to run lines (on the way there) and review what we just did (on the way back). I’m home before I know it.
Theatre--Classes/Workshops
CYT is the nation's largest youth theater program with over 300,000 people across the country watching their performances last year. They are a church neutral but Christ-centered program. The goal of CYT is to take children ages 4 to 18 and teach them to sing, dance, act and all aspects of theater. More importantly, CYT builds character in kids by teaching them self esteem and leadership with accord with Christian principles. The children involved will get to be in Broadway style performances for the community three times a year.
The great news is that Lafayette has just been approved by CYT National to be the next affiliate. They will be joining thirty other affiliates across the nation. They have been meeting with the local church community for the last two months and have had great response across multiple denominations.
CYT will officially begin classes in August. The next big event is the Parent Interest meeting on Friday, May 1st. This will be a great night for curious parents to come out and get all the information on CYT. Children ages 4 to 18 in attendance will be taught a small routine to perform for the parents at the end of the meeting.
Below is the link to CYT National:
www.cyt.org
Please feel to call (337-258-1130) or email Gerald and Patti Broussard with any questions. Gerald would be glad to also meet with anyone interested to better explain the program.
The great news is that Lafayette has just been approved by CYT National to be the next affiliate. They will be joining thirty other affiliates across the nation. They have been meeting with the local church community for the last two months and have had great response across multiple denominations.
CYT will officially begin classes in August. The next big event is the Parent Interest meeting on Friday, May 1st. This will be a great night for curious parents to come out and get all the information on CYT. Children ages 4 to 18 in attendance will be taught a small routine to perform for the parents at the end of the meeting.
Below is the link to CYT National:
www.cyt.org
Please feel to call (337-258-1130) or email Gerald and Patti Broussard with any questions. Gerald would be glad to also meet with anyone interested to better explain the program.
Monday, April 13, 2009
Theatre--Performance
Two area locals have shows opening in the 2nd Stage Series at the Baton Rouge Little Theatre this week. The shows, Blood Knot and The Vertical Hour, will run in rep for two weeks (April 16th-26th). Kyle Lemaire (who directed The Last Five Years at Cite Des Arts) has directed Blood Knot for the BRLT, and Duncan Thistelthwaite (actor, director and set designer) is appearing in The Vertical Hour. The rep schedule is as follows:
April 16--Blood Knot (7:30 pm)
April 17--The Vertical Hour (7:30 pm)
April 18--The Vertical Hour (2:00 pm)
--Blood Knot (7:30 pm)
April 19--Blood Knot (2:00 pm)
--The Vertical Hour (7:30 pm)
April 21--The Vertical Hour (7:30 pm)
April 22--Blood Knot (7:30 pm)
April 23--The Vertical Hour (7:30 pm)
April 24--Blood Knot (7:30 pm)
April 25--Blood Knot (2:00 pm)
--The Vertical Hour (7:30 pm)
April 26--The Vertical Hour (2:00 pm)
--Blood Knot (7:30 pm)
For more information, or to reserve tickets, call BRLT at 225-924-6496 or on the web.
April 16--Blood Knot (7:30 pm)
April 17--The Vertical Hour (7:30 pm)
April 18--The Vertical Hour (2:00 pm)
--Blood Knot (7:30 pm)
April 19--Blood Knot (2:00 pm)
--The Vertical Hour (7:30 pm)
April 21--The Vertical Hour (7:30 pm)
April 22--Blood Knot (7:30 pm)
April 23--The Vertical Hour (7:30 pm)
April 24--Blood Knot (7:30 pm)
April 25--Blood Knot (2:00 pm)
--The Vertical Hour (7:30 pm)
April 26--The Vertical Hour (2:00 pm)
--Blood Knot (7:30 pm)
For more information, or to reserve tickets, call BRLT at 225-924-6496 or on the web.
Friday, April 10, 2009
Performance--Opera
The Marriage of Figaro, presented by the University of Louisiana at Lafayette Opera Theatre and the Acadiana Symphony Orchestra, opens on Thursday, April 30 at 7:30, with a second performance on Saturday, May 2 at 7:30. The student cast will perform on Sunday, May 3 at 3PM. All performances are in the Ducrest-Gilfry Auditorium in Angelle Hall. Tickets are for sale at the ASO office with prices ranging from $25 - $45.
UL students can get $5 tickets for the Sunday matinee only.
The cast includes:
Figaro - Andrew Wilkowske/Brian Sanford
Susanna- Julie Kinzey/Stacy Broussard
Count Almaviva- Jonathan Hays/Nathan Abbott
Countess Almaviva- Katia Escalera/Sasha Massey
Cherubino - Martina Chylikova/Jessica Wiltz
Dr. Bartolo - Ben Sellers
Marcellina - Lindy Waldmeier/Carolyn Broussard
Don Basilio/Don Curzio - Kevin Credeur
Antonio - Nick Manzo
Barbarina - Angela Prejean/Jenee Luquette
The opera is accompanied by the Acadiana Symphony Orchestra with conductor Mariusz Smolij.
The production is directed by Shawn Roy.
Taken from the play by Beaumarchais, The Marriage of Figaro follows the plot of The Barber of Seville. It is 3 years later. The Count is now married to Rosina (the Countess) and he is already cheating on her. Figaro is now the Count's personal valet and is engaged to Susanna, the Countess's chambermaid. The Count is determined to get his hands on Susanna before the wedding night, so Figaro, Susanna and the Countess devise a scheme to make a fool of the Count and hopefully stop his philandering ways. With the assistance of Cherubino, the pageboy (who a teenager and in love with everything in a skirt!), they will send Cherubino, disguised as a woman, to meet the Count in the garden that night for a rendezvous. This is foiled when the Count catches Cherubino in Susanna's room and sends him off to join the military.
Bartolo and Marcellina have a plot of their own. Figaro borrowed some money from Marcellina and cannot pay it back, so she insists on marrying him for payment. Bartolo is still bent of revenge for stealing Rosina away 3 years ago, so he agrees to assist her. We learn later in the opera that Marcellina and Bartolo are actually the long lost parents of Figaro, so the contract is null and void and Figaro and Susanna get married. That night in the garden, the Countess herself dresses as Susanna and the Count is actually wooing his own wife. When she reveals herself, he apologizes for his wrongs and the opera ends happily.
UL students can get $5 tickets for the Sunday matinee only.
The cast includes:
Figaro - Andrew Wilkowske/Brian Sanford
Susanna- Julie Kinzey/Stacy Broussard
Count Almaviva- Jonathan Hays/Nathan Abbott
Countess Almaviva- Katia Escalera/Sasha Massey
Cherubino - Martina Chylikova/Jessica Wiltz
Dr. Bartolo - Ben Sellers
Marcellina - Lindy Waldmeier/Carolyn Broussard
Don Basilio/Don Curzio - Kevin Credeur
Antonio - Nick Manzo
Barbarina - Angela Prejean/Jenee Luquette
The opera is accompanied by the Acadiana Symphony Orchestra with conductor Mariusz Smolij.
The production is directed by Shawn Roy.
Taken from the play by Beaumarchais, The Marriage of Figaro follows the plot of The Barber of Seville. It is 3 years later. The Count is now married to Rosina (the Countess) and he is already cheating on her. Figaro is now the Count's personal valet and is engaged to Susanna, the Countess's chambermaid. The Count is determined to get his hands on Susanna before the wedding night, so Figaro, Susanna and the Countess devise a scheme to make a fool of the Count and hopefully stop his philandering ways. With the assistance of Cherubino, the pageboy (who a teenager and in love with everything in a skirt!), they will send Cherubino, disguised as a woman, to meet the Count in the garden that night for a rendezvous. This is foiled when the Count catches Cherubino in Susanna's room and sends him off to join the military.
Bartolo and Marcellina have a plot of their own. Figaro borrowed some money from Marcellina and cannot pay it back, so she insists on marrying him for payment. Bartolo is still bent of revenge for stealing Rosina away 3 years ago, so he agrees to assist her. We learn later in the opera that Marcellina and Bartolo are actually the long lost parents of Figaro, so the contract is null and void and Figaro and Susanna get married. That night in the garden, the Countess herself dresses as Susanna and the Count is actually wooing his own wife. When she reveals herself, he apologizes for his wrongs and the opera ends happily.
Monday, April 6, 2009
Theatre--Auditions (Omni Artiste)
Omni Artiste Productions, Inc will hold auditions for its next production, Fabulation or, The Re-Education of Undine by Lynn Nottage, at Cite Des Arts on Saturday, April 18th (from 2-4 pm), Sunday, April 19th (4-6 pm) and Monday, April 20th (6-8 pm).
Ths show is a social satire about an ambitious and haughty African-American woman, whose husband suddenly disappears after embezzling all of her money. Pregnant and on the brink of social and financial ruin, Undine retreats to her childhoold home in the projects.
This production requires multicultural and multiple role casting. The roles to be cast are:
Undine--African-American woman (30 to 35)
Guy/Herve/Lance--Caucasian (30-35)
Stephie/Counselor/Devora/Pregnant Woman/Applicant--(25-35)
Agent/Duval/Flow/Rapper/Drugdealer/Mover/Ensemble/Applicant--African-American (35-39)
Doctor Khdair/Grandma/Inmate#1/Case Worker--African-American (55-65)
Allison/Mother/Rosa/Inmate#2/Addict/Ensemble/Applicant--African-American (50-60)
Bablawo/Father/Gregory/Applicant--African-American (45-50)
Ths show is a social satire about an ambitious and haughty African-American woman, whose husband suddenly disappears after embezzling all of her money. Pregnant and on the brink of social and financial ruin, Undine retreats to her childhoold home in the projects.
This production requires multicultural and multiple role casting. The roles to be cast are:
Undine--African-American woman (30 to 35)
Guy/Herve/Lance--Caucasian (30-35)
Stephie/Counselor/Devora/Pregnant Woman/Applicant--(25-35)
Agent/Duval/Flow/Rapper/Drugdealer/Mover/Ensemble/Applicant--African-American (35-39)
Doctor Khdair/Grandma/Inmate#1/Case Worker--African-American (55-65)
Allison/Mother/Rosa/Inmate#2/Addict/Ensemble/Applicant--African-American (50-60)
Bablawo/Father/Gregory/Applicant--African-American (45-50)
Theatre--Performance
John Patrick Bray's Trickster at the Gate was produced Off-Off Broadway with the At Hand Theatre Company in March, 2009. It received outstanding reviews from The Huffington Post, NYTheatre.com, and Stage and Cinema. Trickster at the Gate premiered at the Cite des Arts in April, 2008, as part of The Renaissance of Zora Neale Hurston, and continued its run through Festival International. It was commissioned by the Performing Arts Society of Acadiana under The Big Read Acadiana Grant from the National Endowment for the Arts.
Goodnight Lovin' Trail by John Patrick Bray will be produced during The Colors of Life evening of one-acts at the Producer's Club in NYC. Goodnight Lovin' Trail was John's MFA Thesis at the Actors Studio Drama School, and has been produced in various venues. In 2007, GNLT was produced during the first Hub City Theatre Festival at Cite des Arts, and won three awards: Audience Favorite, Best Actor (Myles McGinn), and Best Production Design (Rachel Adams).
John Patrick Bray's full-length play, Hound, will be produced during the Planet Connections Festivity in NYC (Off-Off Broadway) this June. Hound received its World Premiere at Cite des Arts in October, 2007. Currently, John is looking for friends who are willing to donate to the project (his goal is to raise $1,000 during the month of April, which will off-set all production costs). He is asking everyone he has ever met for $10. So far, John has raised over $2,000, which has paid for entry into the festival, a press agent, and Actor's Equity insurance. The remaining $1,000 will cover rehearsal space, post-cards, costumes, and make-up. If you are interested in making a donation, you can reach him at JohnPatrickBray@yahoo.com. For more information about the Planet Connections Festivity, please visit www.planetconnectionsfestivity.com.
Goodnight Lovin' Trail by John Patrick Bray will be produced during The Colors of Life evening of one-acts at the Producer's Club in NYC. Goodnight Lovin' Trail was John's MFA Thesis at the Actors Studio Drama School, and has been produced in various venues. In 2007, GNLT was produced during the first Hub City Theatre Festival at Cite des Arts, and won three awards: Audience Favorite, Best Actor (Myles McGinn), and Best Production Design (Rachel Adams).
John Patrick Bray's full-length play, Hound, will be produced during the Planet Connections Festivity in NYC (Off-Off Broadway) this June. Hound received its World Premiere at Cite des Arts in October, 2007. Currently, John is looking for friends who are willing to donate to the project (his goal is to raise $1,000 during the month of April, which will off-set all production costs). He is asking everyone he has ever met for $10. So far, John has raised over $2,000, which has paid for entry into the festival, a press agent, and Actor's Equity insurance. The remaining $1,000 will cover rehearsal space, post-cards, costumes, and make-up. If you are interested in making a donation, you can reach him at JohnPatrickBray@yahoo.com. For more information about the Planet Connections Festivity, please visit www.planetconnectionsfestivity.com.
Sunday, April 5, 2009
Theatre--Performance
Tickets are now on sale for Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf?, the first show of the Eunice Players' Theatre's 40th anniversary season, written by Edward Albee and directed by Jody L. Powell. The play begins with a matinee on Sunday, April 26th at 2:00 p.m. Evening performances are Wednesday through Saturday, April 29th through May 2nd 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, April 28th 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. Season tickets may still be purchased by calling 457-2156 or 546-0163. For $20, a season ticket includes 3 shows, reservation rights, voting privileges and an invitation to the 40th Annual Irving Awards. Angel and patron packages are also available for purchase. The theatre is located at 121 S. Second St. in Eunice.
Friday, April 3, 2009
Theatre--Performance
Duncan Thistlethwaite is a well-known local actor (as well as director and set designer) who is now appearing in a repertory performance at the Baton Rouge Little Theatre. Kyle LeMaire has also appeared in local productions (most notably the UL-Lafayette production of Into The Woods).
The Baton Rouge Little Theater 2008 - 2009 2nd Stage Series will be performed in repertory in April. The fall 2008 production of Blood Knot was postponed due to Hurricane Gustav. The Vertical Hour was already scheduled for April 2009.
"Putting the shows in rep gives us a unique opportunity to present two world-class plays in a short period of time. The plays will rotate performances in our 2nd Stage space beginning April 16, 2009," says BRLT Managing Artistic Director Keith Dixon.
Blood Knot
( written by Athol Fugard, directed by Kyle LeMaire)
(Opening night Thursday, April 16, 2009 at 7:30PM)
CAST
Ronald Coats Morris
Jarrod Smith Zach
One of Fugard's most powerful and poignant works, Blood Knot has received critical praise in Africa, Europe and America. The story follows a white and a black brother, born of the same woman. They live in a hovel, the white man as the black brother's servant. The white man cooks and the black man brings home the money. They are saving to buy a farm to which they hope to retire, but the dream is threatened by the desire for a romantic relationship for one of them. The solution is a lonely hearts club, and the response and picture they get will devolve brotherly love into humiliation as they await her visit - a visit which may never come.
The Vertical Hour
(written by David Hare, directed by Keith Dixon)
(Opening night: Friday, April 17, 2009 at 7:30PM)
CAST
Neil Bond Dennis
Drew Lomonica Arms Nadia
Duncan Thistlethwaite Oliver
Joel Sunsin Philip
Tonika Davis Terry
David Hare's new play, The Vertical Hour, is a thought-provoking exploration of how the political can sometimes intersect, collide with and ultimately dismantle the personal. In the play, Nadia and Phillip visit Phillip's father in the Welsh countryside, where the trio get into heated discussions about love, death, marriage, parenthood and the Iraq war. Brimming with cogent and fascinating arguments involving the current political situation, Hare fills his play with several of these ethical and philosophical quandaries that serve not only as dramatic conflict between the three main characters, but also metaphorically as the basis for several of the arguments politicians and intellectuals are having these days concerning the role that America and the West are playing in Iraq, the Middle East and beyond.
The productions are sponsored by WRKF 89.3FM and DOW Louisiana Federal Credit Union.
Performance Schedule:
Thursday, April 16th (7:30PM) Blood Knot
Friday, April 17th (7:30PM) The Vertical Hour
Saturday, April 18th (2PM) The Vertical Hour
(7:30PM) Blood Knot
Sunday, April 19th (2PM) Blood Knot
(7:30PM) The Vertical Hour
Tuesday, April 21st (7:30PM) The Vertical Hour
(Post-show discussion)
Wednesday, April 22nd (7:30PM) Blood Knot (
Post-show discussion)
Thursday, April 23rd (7:30PM) The Vertical Hour
Friday, April 24th (7:30PM) Blood Knot
Saturday, April 25th (2PM) Blood Knot
(7:30PM) The Vertical Hour
Sunday, April 26th (2PM) The Vertical Hour
(7:30PM) Blood Knot
Call (225) 924-6296 for more information.
The Baton Rouge Little Theater 2008 - 2009 2nd Stage Series will be performed in repertory in April. The fall 2008 production of Blood Knot was postponed due to Hurricane Gustav. The Vertical Hour was already scheduled for April 2009.
"Putting the shows in rep gives us a unique opportunity to present two world-class plays in a short period of time. The plays will rotate performances in our 2nd Stage space beginning April 16, 2009," says BRLT Managing Artistic Director Keith Dixon.
Blood Knot
( written by Athol Fugard, directed by Kyle LeMaire)
(Opening night Thursday, April 16, 2009 at 7:30PM)
CAST
Ronald Coats Morris
Jarrod Smith Zach
One of Fugard's most powerful and poignant works, Blood Knot has received critical praise in Africa, Europe and America. The story follows a white and a black brother, born of the same woman. They live in a hovel, the white man as the black brother's servant. The white man cooks and the black man brings home the money. They are saving to buy a farm to which they hope to retire, but the dream is threatened by the desire for a romantic relationship for one of them. The solution is a lonely hearts club, and the response and picture they get will devolve brotherly love into humiliation as they await her visit - a visit which may never come.
The Vertical Hour
(written by David Hare, directed by Keith Dixon)
(Opening night: Friday, April 17, 2009 at 7:30PM)
CAST
Neil Bond Dennis
Drew Lomonica Arms Nadia
Duncan Thistlethwaite Oliver
Joel Sunsin Philip
Tonika Davis Terry
David Hare's new play, The Vertical Hour, is a thought-provoking exploration of how the political can sometimes intersect, collide with and ultimately dismantle the personal. In the play, Nadia and Phillip visit Phillip's father in the Welsh countryside, where the trio get into heated discussions about love, death, marriage, parenthood and the Iraq war. Brimming with cogent and fascinating arguments involving the current political situation, Hare fills his play with several of these ethical and philosophical quandaries that serve not only as dramatic conflict between the three main characters, but also metaphorically as the basis for several of the arguments politicians and intellectuals are having these days concerning the role that America and the West are playing in Iraq, the Middle East and beyond.
The productions are sponsored by WRKF 89.3FM and DOW Louisiana Federal Credit Union.
Performance Schedule:
Thursday, April 16th (7:30PM) Blood Knot
Friday, April 17th (7:30PM) The Vertical Hour
Saturday, April 18th (2PM) The Vertical Hour
(7:30PM) Blood Knot
Sunday, April 19th (2PM) Blood Knot
(7:30PM) The Vertical Hour
Tuesday, April 21st (7:30PM) The Vertical Hour
(Post-show discussion)
Wednesday, April 22nd (7:30PM) Blood Knot (
Post-show discussion)
Thursday, April 23rd (7:30PM) The Vertical Hour
Friday, April 24th (7:30PM) Blood Knot
Saturday, April 25th (2PM) Blood Knot
(7:30PM) The Vertical Hour
Sunday, April 26th (2PM) The Vertical Hour
(7:30PM) Blood Knot
Call (225) 924-6296 for more information.
Theatre--Review (Opelousas Little Theatre)
Ray Blum reviews the Opelousas Little Theatre's production of the Complete Wrks of Wllm Shkspr(Abridged) in the Friday, April 3rd edition of the Daily Advertiser.
Wednesday, April 1, 2009
Theatre--Actor's Story (Eunice Players')
Gabe Ortego, a local actor and director, is currently beginning rehearsal for the Eunice Players' production of Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf? He has offered to share his experiences from the actor's point of view with this blog. This is Part 1:
I love Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?. I have been in love with this play since I saw OLT’s production almost ten years ago. It is one of those plays that will entertain you and make you think all at once. Every time I have read the play or watched the classic movie, I have always walked away with a new view on the strange and twisted events that unfold that night at George and Martha’s house. But I am getting ahead of myself. Let me break down the story for those of you who may not be familiar with Edward Albee’s play. The play is set one fateful night at the home of George and Martha. After returning home from a faculty party thrown by Martha’s father, who is president of the university where George teaches, the couple is expecting guests. The guests are Nick and Honey, a new Biology professor (or Math professor if you listen to Martha) and his wife. Once the young couple arrives, they are quickly caught up in the perverse mind games that George and Martha play to help pass the time. When Edward Albee first wrote this play back in 1962, it was groundbreaking because never before had mature subject matter like this been presented in mainstream theatre. Even the movie was considered ahead of its time, it even lead to the institution of the MPAA rating system we have for movies today.
Are you interested yet? Good, I wanted to get you interested. I am hoping that this blog will make you interested enough to make the long trek to Eunice to see our show. I promise you won't want to miss this one.
Let me just tell you about the glorious cast that our incredibly talented director, Jody Powell, has assembled for this production. Deborah D. Ardoin (Debbie to us in the cast) gets to add Martha to the long list of varied character parts that she has portrayed throughout her theatre career. There is absolutely no one who has graced the Eunice stage that can begin to touch Debbie in this role. I really am enjoying watching her build this character and I believe she is bringing things to the role that Uta Hagen ( the original Broadway Martha) herself would have never thought of bringing to the role. Then there is David McGee who is playing George. He wanted this part so bad; you could see it in his eyes at auditions. I believe David has quite a few cards up his sleeve that he is not showing us yet at rehearsal. I can’t wait till he does show them because it will be fireworks for sure when George and Martha perform their exorcism (you will get this reference after you see the show).
The other member of the cast besides myself is the wonderful, Bonnie Pitre. I am so excited to share the stage with her again. I have been performing in community theatre for almost ten years now and I have never acted opposite a more giving actor. This girl never has a “Look at Me” moment. There is absolutely no vanity with her on stage and that is something almost unheard of in the theatre. I have been joking that Bonnie and I will become the poor man’s Van Reed and Kevin Miller (that joke is for the Eunice Patrons who will know who I am talking about) because this is our second play within six months where we play opposite each other. Now instead of being the gay guy and the hippie chick from Providence, we are the sexy younger couple who might have a few secrets of their own. I guess you can’t accuse Bonnie and I of not trying to stretch as actors because trust me our parts in this play couldn’t be more different than the ones we played in Providence. If you don’t believe me then ask Jody because she directed us in both plays.
So far after the first two weeks of rehearsal, we have finally blocked the play. I know that rehearsing this three act monster will bring about new challenges and some fun back stage stories. Next week I hope to have a few to share with you and I will also post some pictures. And maybe together, we can finally answer the age old question: Who exactly is afraid of Virginia Woolf?
I love Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?. I have been in love with this play since I saw OLT’s production almost ten years ago. It is one of those plays that will entertain you and make you think all at once. Every time I have read the play or watched the classic movie, I have always walked away with a new view on the strange and twisted events that unfold that night at George and Martha’s house. But I am getting ahead of myself. Let me break down the story for those of you who may not be familiar with Edward Albee’s play. The play is set one fateful night at the home of George and Martha. After returning home from a faculty party thrown by Martha’s father, who is president of the university where George teaches, the couple is expecting guests. The guests are Nick and Honey, a new Biology professor (or Math professor if you listen to Martha) and his wife. Once the young couple arrives, they are quickly caught up in the perverse mind games that George and Martha play to help pass the time. When Edward Albee first wrote this play back in 1962, it was groundbreaking because never before had mature subject matter like this been presented in mainstream theatre. Even the movie was considered ahead of its time, it even lead to the institution of the MPAA rating system we have for movies today.
Are you interested yet? Good, I wanted to get you interested. I am hoping that this blog will make you interested enough to make the long trek to Eunice to see our show. I promise you won't want to miss this one.
Let me just tell you about the glorious cast that our incredibly talented director, Jody Powell, has assembled for this production. Deborah D. Ardoin (Debbie to us in the cast) gets to add Martha to the long list of varied character parts that she has portrayed throughout her theatre career. There is absolutely no one who has graced the Eunice stage that can begin to touch Debbie in this role. I really am enjoying watching her build this character and I believe she is bringing things to the role that Uta Hagen ( the original Broadway Martha) herself would have never thought of bringing to the role. Then there is David McGee who is playing George. He wanted this part so bad; you could see it in his eyes at auditions. I believe David has quite a few cards up his sleeve that he is not showing us yet at rehearsal. I can’t wait till he does show them because it will be fireworks for sure when George and Martha perform their exorcism (you will get this reference after you see the show).
The other member of the cast besides myself is the wonderful, Bonnie Pitre. I am so excited to share the stage with her again. I have been performing in community theatre for almost ten years now and I have never acted opposite a more giving actor. This girl never has a “Look at Me” moment. There is absolutely no vanity with her on stage and that is something almost unheard of in the theatre. I have been joking that Bonnie and I will become the poor man’s Van Reed and Kevin Miller (that joke is for the Eunice Patrons who will know who I am talking about) because this is our second play within six months where we play opposite each other. Now instead of being the gay guy and the hippie chick from Providence, we are the sexy younger couple who might have a few secrets of their own. I guess you can’t accuse Bonnie and I of not trying to stretch as actors because trust me our parts in this play couldn’t be more different than the ones we played in Providence. If you don’t believe me then ask Jody because she directed us in both plays.
So far after the first two weeks of rehearsal, we have finally blocked the play. I know that rehearsing this three act monster will bring about new challenges and some fun back stage stories. Next week I hope to have a few to share with you and I will also post some pictures. And maybe together, we can finally answer the age old question: Who exactly is afraid of Virginia Woolf?
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