Harper Lee’s To Kill A Mockingbird presents a host of challenges to any theater company willing to take it on. The script calls for at least twenty characters and more, if the courtroom and other scenes are fleshed out with spectators; crucial roles must be handled by children actors, and the play is rife with the difficult subject matters of Jim Crow racism, and sexual content and multiple tableaus of a whole community, with scene shifts to a courtroom interior, a jailhouse exterior, woodlands on a stormy night and more, must somehow be conveyed to support the dramatic action.
The Evangeline Players, under the direction of Mac Stearns and his assistant Steven “Smitty” Smith, Jr. took on all of these challenges and won, presenting a compelling and entertaining show at the DuChamp Opera House in St. Martinville.
Fine acting was evident from the get-go: Katherine Caffery’s narration as the reminiscing adult Jean Louise Finch was spot on; Carmen Nicholson’s rip-roaring take on the eccentric Mrs. Henry Lafayette DuBose was an absolute delight to watch, Vincent Barras’ composed and controlled Atticus Finch, especially in the monumental summation to the jury, was powerful without being showy. Most of all, and most startling because of her young age, the absolutely amazing performance by Anne Caffery as the young “Scout” was a tour-de-force. Her control, her sense of the character, her range, her in-the-moment realness throughout was stunning. The play more or less rests on the young shoulders of any actress cast in that role, and Anne Caffery shouldered that load with the aplomb and finesse of someone way past her years. Bravo!
The set was efficient and the limited space of the DuChamp stage was well used. The audience got the sense of the Finch neighborhood and the town as the action moved from location to location. Particularly impressive was the efficient shift to the courtroom scene and back, with the many actors moving in precise choreography, taking set pieces on and off with the smoothness of a well-rehearsed dance. Well done!
The Evangeline Players have once again given local theater fans a compelling reason to make the drive down to St. Martinville’s DuChamp Opera house for a fine evening of entertainment. Mark your calendars for the upcoming The Odd Couple, which opens in August there. If To Kill A Mockingbird is any guide, it will be a “not-to-be-missed” offering.
--Duncan Thistlethwaite
Sunday, April 13, 2008
Theatre--Performance
The Eunice Players are presenting The Last Night of Ballyhoo on April 14th and the 17th through the 20th. The show on the 14th is a dinner theatre and begins at 6 pm. The shows on the 17th through the 19th begin at 7 pm. For ticket prices and more information, call (337) 457-3330.
The comedy-drama is set in the upper class German-Jewish society of Atlanta, Georgia in December 1939. Hitler is invading Poland, Gone with the Wind is about to premiere, and Adolph Freitag (owner of the Dixie Bedding Company) and his sister Boo and nieces Lala and Sunny - a Jewish family so highly assimilated they have a Christmas tree in the front parlor - is looking forward to Ballyhoo, a lavish cotillion sponsored by their restrictive country club. Adolph's employee Joe Farkas is an attractive eligible bachelor and an Eastern European Jew, familiar with prejudice but unable to fathom its existence within his own religious community. His presence prompts college student Sunny to examine intra-ethnic bias, her Jewish identity (or lack thereof), and the beliefs with which she's been raised.
Originally a series of vignettes, each featuring a different member family of the city's exclusive Standard Club, Ballyhoo was inspired by the playwright's childhood memories. It was commissioned by the Olympic Arts Festival for the 1996 Summer Olympics and was staged at Atlanta's Alliance Theatre that year. In revising the play for a New York City opening, the playwright opted to focus solely on the Freitags and expanded their storyline into two acts.
The comedy-drama is set in the upper class German-Jewish society of Atlanta, Georgia in December 1939. Hitler is invading Poland, Gone with the Wind is about to premiere, and Adolph Freitag (owner of the Dixie Bedding Company) and his sister Boo and nieces Lala and Sunny - a Jewish family so highly assimilated they have a Christmas tree in the front parlor - is looking forward to Ballyhoo, a lavish cotillion sponsored by their restrictive country club. Adolph's employee Joe Farkas is an attractive eligible bachelor and an Eastern European Jew, familiar with prejudice but unable to fathom its existence within his own religious community. His presence prompts college student Sunny to examine intra-ethnic bias, her Jewish identity (or lack thereof), and the beliefs with which she's been raised.
Originally a series of vignettes, each featuring a different member family of the city's exclusive Standard Club, Ballyhoo was inspired by the playwright's childhood memories. It was commissioned by the Olympic Arts Festival for the 1996 Summer Olympics and was staged at Atlanta's Alliance Theatre that year. In revising the play for a New York City opening, the playwright opted to focus solely on the Freitags and expanded their storyline into two acts.
Saturday, April 12, 2008
Theatre--Workshopping
Cite Des Arts is starting a new event, the Monday Night Reads. The Reads occur once a month. The purpose of this evening is to provide writers the opportunity to hear their new pieces, whether finished or works in progress, read out loud to an audience and then given feedback by the audience members.
The first one kicks off this Monday evening, April 14th, at 7:00 pm with a reading of The Lawyer Who Stopped Talking, written by Jim Phillips. This is a one-act play that is being submitted to this year’s Hub City Theatre Festival.
WHAT: The Monday Night Reads
WHEN: Monday, April 14th at 7:00pm
WHERE: Cité des Arts, 109 Vine St., Downtown Lafayette, between Jefferson St. and Third St.
For additional information, please call Cité at 337-291-1122
The first one kicks off this Monday evening, April 14th, at 7:00 pm with a reading of The Lawyer Who Stopped Talking, written by Jim Phillips. This is a one-act play that is being submitted to this year’s Hub City Theatre Festival.
WHAT: The Monday Night Reads
WHEN: Monday, April 14th at 7:00pm
WHERE: Cité des Arts, 109 Vine St., Downtown Lafayette, between Jefferson St. and Third St.
For additional information, please call Cité at 337-291-1122
Theatre--Article
Herman Fusilier has written an article about the upcoming Lafayette High production of Guys and Dolls in the April 11th edition of the Daily Advertiser.
Monday, April 7, 2008
Theatre--Performance
The 2007-2008 season of the Abbey Players will close with Picasso at the Lapin Agile by Steve Martin (anticipated run, May 9 – June 20).
The play involves an imaginary meeting of Pablo Picasso and Albert Einstein at a quaint bar in Paris in 1904, before either of the gentlemen had achieved fame. They talk of life, love, art and science and poke fun at themselves, the people in the bar and the world in general. A visitor from the future appears near the end and puts everyone’s life and dreams back into perspective. It’s a fun comedy sprinkled with the humor of Steve Martin.
Jerrod Arabie- Director
Pamela Broussard- Assistant Director
Jack Sorenson- Schmendimen
Mattie Hartman- Suzanne
Mickey Atchetee- Einstein
Nathan Bodin- Picasso
Bob LeMaire- Gaston
Angelle Bellard- Germaine
Lydia Soileau- Countess/Woman
Scott Meddows- Freddy
Chris DeShazo- Singer/Elvis
Bob Sidman – Sagot
The play involves an imaginary meeting of Pablo Picasso and Albert Einstein at a quaint bar in Paris in 1904, before either of the gentlemen had achieved fame. They talk of life, love, art and science and poke fun at themselves, the people in the bar and the world in general. A visitor from the future appears near the end and puts everyone’s life and dreams back into perspective. It’s a fun comedy sprinkled with the humor of Steve Martin.
Jerrod Arabie- Director
Pamela Broussard- Assistant Director
Jack Sorenson- Schmendimen
Mattie Hartman- Suzanne
Mickey Atchetee- Einstein
Nathan Bodin- Picasso
Bob LeMaire- Gaston
Angelle Bellard- Germaine
Lydia Soileau- Countess/Woman
Scott Meddows- Freddy
Chris DeShazo- Singer/Elvis
Bob Sidman – Sagot
Theatre--Performance
Not My Child will be performed by Lynda's Drama Company at the Rice Theater (328 N. Parkerson Ave.) in Crowley. This funny, yet heartfelt, real life play unwraps the story of three teen girls fighting a life of drugs, sex and adult responsibility. The show was written and directed by Lynda Carmouche.
The show opens on Friday, April 11th at 7:30 pm. It runs through Sunday, April 13th.
For show times,ticket prices and availability or more information, call (337) 593-8642.
The show opens on Friday, April 11th at 7:30 pm. It runs through Sunday, April 13th.
For show times,ticket prices and availability or more information, call (337) 593-8642.
Sunday, April 6, 2008
Theatre--Performance
The Opelousas Little Theatre is presenting You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown beginning on April 10th and running Thursday, Friday, and Saturday through April 26 at 7 pm. There will be two additional matinees at Sunday the 13th and 20th at 2 pm. All seats are $10.
A program note says that the time of the action is "an average day in the life of Charlie Brown." It really is just that, a day made up of little moments picked from all the days of Charlie Brown, from Valentine's Day to the baseball season, from wild optimism to utter despair, all mixed in with the lives of his friends (both human and non-human) and strung together on the string of a single day, from bright uncertain morning to hopeful starlit evening.
For more information, call 308-7108 or visit the Opelousas Little Theatre online.
A program note says that the time of the action is "an average day in the life of Charlie Brown." It really is just that, a day made up of little moments picked from all the days of Charlie Brown, from Valentine's Day to the baseball season, from wild optimism to utter despair, all mixed in with the lives of his friends (both human and non-human) and strung together on the string of a single day, from bright uncertain morning to hopeful starlit evening.
For more information, call 308-7108 or visit the Opelousas Little Theatre online.
Theatre--Performance
Omni Artiste Productions continues its Spring 2008 season with Searching for Eden: Adam and Eve. The play is a modern twist on Mark Twain's The Diaries of Adam and Eve.
Public performances for Searching for Eden: Adam and Eve are scheduled for April 11th and 12th at 7:30 p.m., April 13th at 3 p.m., April 18th and 19th at 7:30 p.m. and April 20th at 3:00 p.m. on the Second Stage at Cite’ des Arts.
Cite’ des Arts is located in downtown Lafayette, Louisiana at 109 Vine Street. Ticket prices are $15.00 for adults and $10.00 for students and Seniors. A $5.00 discount per ticket applies when tickets are purchased in advance. For more information and group discounts, call Cite’ des Arts at 337-291-1122.
Public performances for Searching for Eden: Adam and Eve are scheduled for April 11th and 12th at 7:30 p.m., April 13th at 3 p.m., April 18th and 19th at 7:30 p.m. and April 20th at 3:00 p.m. on the Second Stage at Cite’ des Arts.
Cite’ des Arts is located in downtown Lafayette, Louisiana at 109 Vine Street. Ticket prices are $15.00 for adults and $10.00 for students and Seniors. A $5.00 discount per ticket applies when tickets are purchased in advance. For more information and group discounts, call Cite’ des Arts at 337-291-1122.
Theatre--Performance
TheatreworksUSA presents at the Heymann Center at 10 am on April
8th a sparkling musical revue based on popular children's books, including:
If You Give a Mouse a Cookie (by Laura Joffe Numeroff) When a boy shares his snack with a hungry, demanding mouse, he learns a hilarious lesson about cause-and-effect.
Amazing Grace (by Mary Hoffman) Follow young Grace as she attempts to break stereotypes in an effort to play the title character in her school's production of Peter Pan.
Borreguita and the Coyote (by Verna Aardema) The classic Mexican tale of a little lamb, or borreguita, who uses her wits to escape a hungry coyote.
Imogene's Antlers (by David Small) Young Imogene is delighted to wake up with "cool" antlers, but soon discovers that her parents and school principals do not share her enthusiasm.
Martha Speaks (by Susan Meddaugh) The adventurous tale of a family dog who literally becomes outspoken after dining on alphabet soup.
Master Man (by Aaron Shepard) A man whose muscles are as big as his ego earns his comeuppance when he claims to be the world's strongest man in this Nigerian tall tale.
Math Curse (by Jon Scieszka) This story playfully addresses the phobia some kids have when tackling seemingly impossible math problems.
Owen (by Kevin Henkes) Owen just can't bear to part with his beloved blanket, Fuzzy - a problem, since he is about to start kindergarten. Owen's understanding mother provides a clever solution.
For more information about the production or about tickets, contact Theatreworksusa at 800-497-5007 or on the internet.
8th a sparkling musical revue based on popular children's books, including:
If You Give a Mouse a Cookie (by Laura Joffe Numeroff) When a boy shares his snack with a hungry, demanding mouse, he learns a hilarious lesson about cause-and-effect.
Amazing Grace (by Mary Hoffman) Follow young Grace as she attempts to break stereotypes in an effort to play the title character in her school's production of Peter Pan.
Borreguita and the Coyote (by Verna Aardema) The classic Mexican tale of a little lamb, or borreguita, who uses her wits to escape a hungry coyote.
Imogene's Antlers (by David Small) Young Imogene is delighted to wake up with "cool" antlers, but soon discovers that her parents and school principals do not share her enthusiasm.
Martha Speaks (by Susan Meddaugh) The adventurous tale of a family dog who literally becomes outspoken after dining on alphabet soup.
Master Man (by Aaron Shepard) A man whose muscles are as big as his ego earns his comeuppance when he claims to be the world's strongest man in this Nigerian tall tale.
Math Curse (by Jon Scieszka) This story playfully addresses the phobia some kids have when tackling seemingly impossible math problems.
Owen (by Kevin Henkes) Owen just can't bear to part with his beloved blanket, Fuzzy - a problem, since he is about to start kindergarten. Owen's understanding mother provides a clever solution.
For more information about the production or about tickets, contact Theatreworksusa at 800-497-5007 or on the internet.
Saturday, April 5, 2008
Dance--Performance
The UL-Lafayette Department of Performing Arts presents the final two performances of An Evening of Dance at Angelle Hall on the UL-Lafayette campus. The pictures below are from the rehearsals of student choreographer Caroline Rose Randall's piece entitled Transforming Embrace.
Dance--Performance
The UL-Lafayette Department of Performing Arts presents the final two performances of An Evening of Dance at Angelle Hall on the UL-Lafayette campus. The pictures below are from the rehearsals of student choreographer Teri Wyble's piece entitled She Used to be a Kaleidoscope.
Opera--Performance
Carmen, an opera by Georges Bizet will be performed in French with supertitles on May 1 and 3, 2008 at 7:30PM in the Ducrest-Gilfry Auditorium in Angelle Hall on the campus of UL Lafayette. This is a joint production between the Acadiana Symphony and the UL Lafayette College of the Arts. It tells the story of the ill-fated gypsy girl, Carmen, who through manipulation and sexuality, manages to get herself murdered by a extremely jealous lover. The cast will be made up of professional singers in the leading roles and UL Lafayette students in the secondary parts. The role of Carmen will portrayed by Metropolitan Opera mezzo-soprano Edyta Kulczak of Poland. Tickets are available at the offices of the Acadiana Symphony at 232-4277.
Friday, April 4, 2008
Theatre--Article
Herman Fusilier has an article about Firelight Children's Theatre and its production of Aladdin in the April 4th edition of the Daily Advertiser.
Theatre--Article
Herman Fusilier, entertainment editor of the Daily Advertiser, has an article about the Lafayette Ballet Theatre's production of Cinderella, in the April 4th edition.
Theatre--Review
Krista Richmond of the Daily Advertiser has a review of the Theatre League's presentation of Chicago in the April 4th edition.
Thursday, April 3, 2008
Theatre--Performance
To Kill a Mockingbird, the upcoming production of the Evangeline Players in St. Martinville, was adapted by playwright Christopher Sergel from the novel by Harper Lee. Set in a small Alabama town in the Great Depression, the story concerns the trial of a young black man falsely accused of rape. The theme, however, is the loss of innocence (the mockingbird of the title).
This production is under the direction of Mac Stearns, assisted by Steven Smith, Jr. It will open on Friday, April 4th and run through Sunday, April 20th. Friday and Saturday performances will begin at 7:30 pm and Sunday matinees will start at 2 pm. For tickets, call (337) 394-5574.
This production is under the direction of Mac Stearns, assisted by Steven Smith, Jr. It will open on Friday, April 4th and run through Sunday, April 20th. Friday and Saturday performances will begin at 7:30 pm and Sunday matinees will start at 2 pm. For tickets, call (337) 394-5574.
Theatre--Article
The Daily Iberian has an article about the Evangeline Players' production of To Kill a Mockingbird in the April 3rd edition.
Theatre--Performance
Firelight Children's Theatre, in conjunction with Cite Des Arts, will present Aladdin (an adaptation of the Disney Company's Aladdin) beginning April 4 through the 13th at 7:30 pm. Friday and Saturday evening performances are at 7 pm and there are 3 pm matinees on Saturdays and Sundays. For more information, call Cite Des Arts at 291-1122.
Wednesday, April 2, 2008
Dance--Performance
The Performing Arts Department of the University of Louisiana--Lafayette opens their spring performance, An Evening of Dance, on April 3rd. These are adjudicated performances choreographed by dance students at ULL. Performances will be presented in Angelle Hall at 7:30 on Thursday (April 3rd), Friday (April 4th) and Saturday (April 5th). There will also be a Sunday matinee at 2:00 on April 6. Tickets are free to ULL students and faculty; $5 for alumni, students and seniors and $10.00 general admission.
Theatre--Auditions (2nd Post)
Cité des Arts will hold open auditions for its production of Proof, David Auburn’s Pulitzer Prize and Tony Award-winning play on Sunday, April 6th, from 3-6 pm, Monday, April 7th, from 6-8 pm, and Wednesday, April 9th, from 6-8. Prepared monologues are not required. The parts being cast are:
Catherine – 25
Robert – 50s
Hal – 28
Claire – 29
The production runs from May 22nd through June 7th , 2008.
Character ages are only approximate. Actors should appear to be within that broad age range. If audition times are not convenient, or for additional information, call Cité des Arts
WHAT: Audition for Proof
WHEN: April 6, 4:00pm – 6:00 pm; April 7, 6-8pm April 9, 6-8pm.
WHERE: Cité des Arts, 109 Vine Street, downtown Lafayette
CONTACT: Cité des Arts at 337- 291-1122
Catherine – 25
Robert – 50s
Hal – 28
Claire – 29
The production runs from May 22nd through June 7th , 2008.
Character ages are only approximate. Actors should appear to be within that broad age range. If audition times are not convenient, or for additional information, call Cité des Arts
WHAT: Audition for Proof
WHEN: April 6, 4:00pm – 6:00 pm; April 7, 6-8pm April 9, 6-8pm.
WHERE: Cité des Arts, 109 Vine Street, downtown Lafayette
CONTACT: Cité des Arts at 337- 291-1122
Monday, March 31, 2008
Dance--Performance
Lafayette Ballet Theatre (with international principal guest artists) presents the enchanting story ballet, Cinderella. Cinderella is a full-length classical ballet in three acts, with the original music of Sergei Prokofiev.
There is only one performance scheduled: Saturday, April 5, 2008 at 7:00 pm, at the Heymann Performing Arts Center.
Students can receive a 50% discount on all balcony level tickets. Contact the Heymann Center box office for ticket prices or more information
Pictured is Noelani Pantastico, the guest artist performing the leading role in this weekend's performance of Cinderella. She is currently a principal dancer with the Pacific Northwest Ballet.
There is only one performance scheduled: Saturday, April 5, 2008 at 7:00 pm, at the Heymann Performing Arts Center.
Students can receive a 50% discount on all balcony level tickets. Contact the Heymann Center box office for ticket prices or more information
Pictured is Noelani Pantastico, the guest artist performing the leading role in this weekend's performance of Cinderella. She is currently a principal dancer with the Pacific Northwest Ballet.
Theatre--Performance
Tickets are on sale for the drama Not My Child, which will be performed by Lynda's Drama Company at the Rice Theater (328 N. Parkerson Ave.) in Crowley. This funny, yet heartfelt, real life play unwraps the story of three teen girls fighting a life of drugs, sex and adult responsibility. The show was written and directed by Lynda Carmouche.
The show opens on Friday, April 11th at 7:30 pm. It runs through Sunday, April 13th.
For show times,ticket prices and availability or more information, call (337) 593-8642.
The show opens on Friday, April 11th at 7:30 pm. It runs through Sunday, April 13th.
For show times,ticket prices and availability or more information, call (337) 593-8642.
Theatre--Performance
Herman Fusilier has an article about the Theatre League of Louisiana's presentation of Chicago in the March 31st edition of the Daily Advertiser.
Dance--Performance
The UL-Lafayette Department of Performing Arts presents An Evening Of Dance. This performance showcases student choreographers' work with a broad range of genre. The palette is loaded, brush in hand, and imagination lit! The concert consists of nine pieces choreographed by Taryn Arnaud, Matthew Couvillion, Lacey LeBlanc, Meagan Mod, Caroline Randall, Lauren Scharfenstein, Simone Sonnier, Kelly Womack and Teri Wyble. Most of these choreographers will be graduating in May and this will be their final dance project at ULL. Pieces vary from the fun and silly to a Broadway-style Charleston to modern serious dance. There should be something to please every member of the audience.
Performances will be in Angelle Hall at 7:30 on Thursday (April 3rd), Friday (April 4th) and Saturday (April 5th). There will also be a Sunday matinee at 2:00 on April 6th. Tickets are free to ULL students and faculty (with ID); $5 for alumni, students and seniors and $10.00 general admission.
Performances will be in Angelle Hall at 7:30 on Thursday (April 3rd), Friday (April 4th) and Saturday (April 5th). There will also be a Sunday matinee at 2:00 on April 6th. Tickets are free to ULL students and faculty (with ID); $5 for alumni, students and seniors and $10.00 general admission.
Theatre--Performance
Firelight Children's Theatre opens their production of Aladdin on April 4th at Cite Des Arts. The show runs two weekends: April 4th (Friday), 5(Saturday), 6th (Sunday), and 11th (Friday), 12th (Saturday), 13th (Sunday). Show times are 7:00 pm on all dates with matinees on both Saturdays and Sundays at 3:00 pm. For information and tickets, please call Cité Des Arts at 337-291-1122.
Theatre--Performance
Omni Artiste Productions continues its Spring 2008 season with Searching for Eden: Adam and Eve. The play is a modern twist on Mark Twain's The Diaries of Adam and Eve.
More than a hundred years after Mark Twain wrote his own short stories about Adam and Eve, James Still combines those stories for Act One of Searching for Eden: Adam and Eve, and then imagines Adam and Eve in the present day for Act Two to create this completely original and contemporary play about the world's first love story. Twain's Garden of Eden bursts with wit, laughter and the lyrical poignancy of the first love and the first loss. At its heart, Searching for Eden: Adam and Eve is about the pleasures and terrors of knowing one person—and being known by that person—for a long, long time.
Believing that lives are transformed through theatre, Omni Artiste Productions of Lafayette, under the direction of Dr. Alex C. Marshall, brings a unique vision to the performance of informative, entertaining, and original plays. Omni Artiste Productions believes that theatre inspires individuals toward developing a deeper appreciation of the world in which they live.
Public performances for Searching for Eden: Adam and Eve are scheduled for April 11th and 12th at 7:30 p.m., April 13th at 3 p.m., April 18th and 19th at 7:30 p.m. and April 20th at 3:00 p.m. on the Second Stage at Cite’ des Arts. Omni Artiste Productions welcomes men, women, and children of all ages. Each attendee can expect to leave renewed.
Cite’ des Arts is located in downtown Lafayette, Louisiana at 109 Vine Street. Ticket prices are $15.00 for adults and $10.00 for students and Seniors. A $5.00 discount per ticket applies when tickets are purchased in advance. For more information and group discounts, call Cite’ des Arts at 337-291-1122.
More than a hundred years after Mark Twain wrote his own short stories about Adam and Eve, James Still combines those stories for Act One of Searching for Eden: Adam and Eve, and then imagines Adam and Eve in the present day for Act Two to create this completely original and contemporary play about the world's first love story. Twain's Garden of Eden bursts with wit, laughter and the lyrical poignancy of the first love and the first loss. At its heart, Searching for Eden: Adam and Eve is about the pleasures and terrors of knowing one person—and being known by that person—for a long, long time.
Believing that lives are transformed through theatre, Omni Artiste Productions of Lafayette, under the direction of Dr. Alex C. Marshall, brings a unique vision to the performance of informative, entertaining, and original plays. Omni Artiste Productions believes that theatre inspires individuals toward developing a deeper appreciation of the world in which they live.
Public performances for Searching for Eden: Adam and Eve are scheduled for April 11th and 12th at 7:30 p.m., April 13th at 3 p.m., April 18th and 19th at 7:30 p.m. and April 20th at 3:00 p.m. on the Second Stage at Cite’ des Arts. Omni Artiste Productions welcomes men, women, and children of all ages. Each attendee can expect to leave renewed.
Cite’ des Arts is located in downtown Lafayette, Louisiana at 109 Vine Street. Ticket prices are $15.00 for adults and $10.00 for students and Seniors. A $5.00 discount per ticket applies when tickets are purchased in advance. For more information and group discounts, call Cite’ des Arts at 337-291-1122.
Friday, March 28, 2008
Theatre--Review
Ray Blum reviews The Producers, the most recent of the Theatre League of Louisiana's presentations, in the March 28th edition of the Daily Advertiser.
Theatre--Workshops
The Summer Youth Shakespeare Ensemble announces registration for its sixth season. The 15-day intensive performing arts camp runs July 6-20, 2008 with performances of The Tempest on July 25, 26, & 27, 2008; all activities take place at the Acadiana Center for the Arts.
Students ages 10-senior in high school study all aspects of the performing arts with professional faculty members and an extensive support staff. Hector LaSala teaches set design; Cissy Whipp, dance & choreography; Danny Devillier, music; Laura Sellers, costume design; and Amy Waguespack, acting and directing. Rounding out the staff: Hannah Briggs, Ricky Briggs, Lian Cheramie, Harmony Decker, Sam Dooley, Kara Guarisco, Paige Krause, Brooke LeBleu, Megan LeBleu, and Mary Pierce.
Each day begins with an hour long company class followed by small group workshops where students study in age and experience based groups. Afternoons are spent applying what they have learned in their workshops to their full production of Shakespeare's The Tempest.
Tuition for the camp is $500; some partial scholarships are available. For more
information or to register by mail call (337) 739-4273 or (337) 380-4021. For those wanting to tour the facility and meet some of the staff members, two orientations are being offered. The first will take place on Wednesday April 2, 2008 from 6-7 PM, the second on Saturday April 5, 2008 from 2-3 PM at the Acadiana Center for the Arts.
Students ages 10-senior in high school study all aspects of the performing arts with professional faculty members and an extensive support staff. Hector LaSala teaches set design; Cissy Whipp, dance & choreography; Danny Devillier, music; Laura Sellers, costume design; and Amy Waguespack, acting and directing. Rounding out the staff: Hannah Briggs, Ricky Briggs, Lian Cheramie, Harmony Decker, Sam Dooley, Kara Guarisco, Paige Krause, Brooke LeBleu, Megan LeBleu, and Mary Pierce.
Each day begins with an hour long company class followed by small group workshops where students study in age and experience based groups. Afternoons are spent applying what they have learned in their workshops to their full production of Shakespeare's The Tempest.
Tuition for the camp is $500; some partial scholarships are available. For more
information or to register by mail call (337) 739-4273 or (337) 380-4021. For those wanting to tour the facility and meet some of the staff members, two orientations are being offered. The first will take place on Wednesday April 2, 2008 from 6-7 PM, the second on Saturday April 5, 2008 from 2-3 PM at the Acadiana Center for the Arts.
Thursday, March 27, 2008
Theatre--Performance
The Evangeline Players are in final rehearsals for To Kill a Mockingbird, which opens on Friday, April 4th at 7:30 pm. These are photographs from the rehearsals.
Jem (Travis Guillory)
Scout (Anne Caffery)
Atticus (Vincent Barras)
Scout, Dill, Jem and Atticus
Jem (Travis Guillory)
Scout (Anne Caffery)
Atticus (Vincent Barras)
Scout, Dill, Jem and Atticus
Dance--Performance
TheUL-Lafayette Department of Performing Arts presents An Evening Of Dance. These are adjudicated performances choreographed by dance students at ULL. Performances will be presented in Angelle Hall at 7:30 on Thursday (April 3rd), Friday (April 4th) and Saturday (April 5th). There will also be a Sunday matinee at 2:00 on April 6. Tickets are free to ULL students and faculty; $5 for alumni, students and seniors and $10.00 general admission.
The concert consists of nine pieces choreographed by Taryn Arnaud, Matthew Couvillion, Lacey LeBlanc, Meagan Mod, Caroline Randall, Lauren Scharfenstein, Simone Sonnier, Kelly Womack and Teri Wyble. Most of these choreographers will be graduating in May and this will be their final dance project at ULL.
Pieces vary from the fun and silly to a Broadway-style Charleston to modern serious dance. There should be something to please every member of the audience.
Faculty advisers are Kenneth Jenkins and Diego Carrasco.
The concert consists of nine pieces choreographed by Taryn Arnaud, Matthew Couvillion, Lacey LeBlanc, Meagan Mod, Caroline Randall, Lauren Scharfenstein, Simone Sonnier, Kelly Womack and Teri Wyble. Most of these choreographers will be graduating in May and this will be their final dance project at ULL.
Pieces vary from the fun and silly to a Broadway-style Charleston to modern serious dance. There should be something to please every member of the audience.
Faculty advisers are Kenneth Jenkins and Diego Carrasco.
Theatre--Performance
The Theatre League of Louisiana winds up its 2007-2008 Broadway Series with the razzle dazzle musical Chicago. Chicago is a Kander and Ebb musical (book is by Ebb and Bob Fosse) set in prohibition era Chicago. The story is a satire on corruption in the administration of criminal justice, and the concept of the "celebrity criminal." The musical is based on a 1926 play of the same name by reporter Maurine Dallas Watkins about actual criminals and crimes she had reported on.
The original 1975 Broadway production ran for a total of 936 performances. Bob Fosse choreographed the original production, and his style is strongly identified with the show. Chicago's 1996 Broadway revival holds the record for the longest-running musical revival on Broadway (not counting the revue Oh! Calcutta!) and, as of March 2, 2008, it has played for more than 4,684 performances. The revival was followed by a production on London's West End and several tours and international productions. An Academy Award-winning film version of the musical was released in 2002.
This musical contains mature subject matter.
The performance begins at 7:30 pm. For ticket information, contact the Heymann Box Office at 291-5555.
The original 1975 Broadway production ran for a total of 936 performances. Bob Fosse choreographed the original production, and his style is strongly identified with the show. Chicago's 1996 Broadway revival holds the record for the longest-running musical revival on Broadway (not counting the revue Oh! Calcutta!) and, as of March 2, 2008, it has played for more than 4,684 performances. The revival was followed by a production on London's West End and several tours and international productions. An Academy Award-winning film version of the musical was released in 2002.
This musical contains mature subject matter.
The performance begins at 7:30 pm. For ticket information, contact the Heymann Box Office at 291-5555.
Monday, March 24, 2008
Theatre--Article
The Daily World has an article about the upcoming production of You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown by the Opelousas Little Theatre in the Monday, March 24th edition.
Theatre--Auditions
Cité des Arts will hold open auditions for its production of Proof, David Auburn’s Pulitzer Prize and Tony Award-winning play on Sunday, April 6th, from 3-6 pm, Monday, April 7th, from 6-8 pm, and Wednesday, April 9th, from 6-8. Prepared monologues are not required. The parts being cast are:
Catherine – 25
Robert – 50s
Hal – 28
Claire – 29
The production runs from May 22nd through June 7th , 2008.
Character ages are only approximate. Actors should appear to be within
that broad age range. If audition times are not convenient, or for additional information, call Cité des Arts
WHAT: Audition for Proof
WHEN: April 6, 4:00pm – 6:00 pm; April 7, 6-8pm April 9, 6-8pm.
WHERE: Cité des Arts, 109 Vine Street, downtown Lafayette
CONTACT: Cité des Arts at 337- 291-1122
Catherine – 25
Robert – 50s
Hal – 28
Claire – 29
The production runs from May 22nd through June 7th , 2008.
Character ages are only approximate. Actors should appear to be within
that broad age range. If audition times are not convenient, or for additional information, call Cité des Arts
WHAT: Audition for Proof
WHEN: April 6, 4:00pm – 6:00 pm; April 7, 6-8pm April 9, 6-8pm.
WHERE: Cité des Arts, 109 Vine Street, downtown Lafayette
CONTACT: Cité des Arts at 337- 291-1122
Theatre--Performance
To Kill a Mockingbird, the upcoming production of the Evangeline Players in St. Martinville, was adapted by playwright Christopher Sergel from the novel by Harper Lee. Set in a small Alabama town in the Great Depression, the story concerns the trial of a young black man falsely accused of rape. The theme, however, is the loss of innocence (the mockingbird of the title).
Young Jean Louise Finch (Scout) and her brother, Jem, are being raised by their widowed father, Atticus and their black housekeeper, Calpurnia. The children find Atticus, who is older than the parents of their schoolmates and who seems to do little except read and work in an office, boring and a bit of an embarrassment. Their neighbors are a recluse named Boo Radley and his brother who takes care of him, Miss Maudie who is a sort of mother figure for them and Mrs. Dubose who is the Witch of the West as far they are concerned.
Scout's quiet life begins to change when she meets an odd young boy her own age named Dill (modeled on Truman Capote) who takes refuge from his turbulent life with his mother by staying first with his Aunt and then with Scout and Jem. Dill's life has matured him beyond his years and he watches sadly as Scout and Jem begin to learn the hard lessons of reality and the presence of Evil in their small town Eden.
This evil is represented by Bob Ewell, a white trash handyman who abuses his children. His daughter, Mayella, accuses Tom Robinson, a black handyman, of rape. Although he knows it is a hopeless endeavor, Atticus agrees to defend Tom, a decision which creates a great deal of stress for him and his family. Atticus, however, feels a moral duty to pursue Justice even she flees before him. The following events, beginning with the trial of Tom, mark a time of pain and change for the town and for Scout.
This production is produced by The Evangeline Players at the Duchamp Opera House and is under the direction of Mac Stearns, assisted by Steven Smith, Jr. It will open on Friday, April 4th and run through Sunday, April 20th. Friday and Saturday performances will begin at 7:30 pm and Sunday matinees will start at 2 pm. For tickets, call (337) 394-5574.
Young Jean Louise Finch (Scout) and her brother, Jem, are being raised by their widowed father, Atticus and their black housekeeper, Calpurnia. The children find Atticus, who is older than the parents of their schoolmates and who seems to do little except read and work in an office, boring and a bit of an embarrassment. Their neighbors are a recluse named Boo Radley and his brother who takes care of him, Miss Maudie who is a sort of mother figure for them and Mrs. Dubose who is the Witch of the West as far they are concerned.
Scout's quiet life begins to change when she meets an odd young boy her own age named Dill (modeled on Truman Capote) who takes refuge from his turbulent life with his mother by staying first with his Aunt and then with Scout and Jem. Dill's life has matured him beyond his years and he watches sadly as Scout and Jem begin to learn the hard lessons of reality and the presence of Evil in their small town Eden.
This evil is represented by Bob Ewell, a white trash handyman who abuses his children. His daughter, Mayella, accuses Tom Robinson, a black handyman, of rape. Although he knows it is a hopeless endeavor, Atticus agrees to defend Tom, a decision which creates a great deal of stress for him and his family. Atticus, however, feels a moral duty to pursue Justice even she flees before him. The following events, beginning with the trial of Tom, mark a time of pain and change for the town and for Scout.
This production is produced by The Evangeline Players at the Duchamp Opera House and is under the direction of Mac Stearns, assisted by Steven Smith, Jr. It will open on Friday, April 4th and run through Sunday, April 20th. Friday and Saturday performances will begin at 7:30 pm and Sunday matinees will start at 2 pm. For tickets, call (337) 394-5574.
Friday, March 21, 2008
Theatre--Review
Ray Blum of the Daily Advertiser reviews IPAL's Little Shop of Horrors in the March 21st edition.
Thursday, March 20, 2008
The Abbey Players are pleased to announce auditions for their upcoming Spring production,Picasso at the Lapin Agile, by Steve Martin.
The show will run mid-May thru June, 2008 and will be directed by Jerrod Arabie and assistant-directed by Pamela Broussard.
Open auditions will be held at the Abbey Players Theatre, 200 South State Street, Abbeville, LA. on the followng dates and times:
Sat. March 22, 1pm -3pm.
Sun. March 23, 1pm -3pm.
Various roles for men ages 18 - 60. Roles for women ages 18 - 40.
The show will run mid-May thru June, 2008 and will be directed by Jerrod Arabie and assistant-directed by Pamela Broussard.
Open auditions will be held at the Abbey Players Theatre, 200 South State Street, Abbeville, LA. on the followng dates and times:
Sat. March 22, 1pm -3pm.
Sun. March 23, 1pm -3pm.
Various roles for men ages 18 - 60. Roles for women ages 18 - 40.
Wednesday, March 19, 2008
Sunday, March 16, 2008
Theatre--Performance
The Evangeline Players will present To Kill a Mockingbird beginning on Friday, April 4th and running through Sunday, April 20th.
Dance--Performance
Lafayette Ballet Theatre, featuring international principal guest artists, presents the enchanting Cinderella, a full-length classical ballet in three acts, with the original music of Sergei Prokofiev on Saturday, April 5th at 7:00 pm. This will be the only performance, and will take place at the Heymann Performing Arts Center. For tickets or more information, contact the Heymann Center or Ticketmaster.
Theatre--Performance
Firelight Children's Theatre, in conjunction with Cite Des Arts, will present Aladdin (an adaptation of the Disney Company's Aladdin) beginning April 4 through the 13th at 7:30 pm. For more information, call Cite Des Arts at 291-1122.
Theatre--Performance
The Chamber Theatre Company, in conjunction with the Heymann Center, will present Encore!! on Wednesday, March 19th at 10:30 am.
ENCORE!! An Original Two-Act Play
Each of the five stories in our ENCORE!!™ collection has a flavor that highlights the versatility of five great authors: Edgar Allan Poe, Washington Irving, W.W. Jacobs, Guy de Maupassant and Mark Twain. Their timeless glimpses into the human experience are brought to life on the stage.
The Tell Tale Heart
Poe, the master of the macabre, presents a story of the irrational hatred and fear of a psychopathic mind. A wildly disturbed personality commits the “perfect” crime only to be undone by the workings of a fevered imagination.
The Legend of Sleepy Hollow
Fantasy and reality are cleverly combined in this entertaining story from the pen of Washington Irving. This fanciful yarn relates the hilarious misfortunes of the great, gangling schoolmaster, Ichabod Crane, and his fateful midnight rendezvous with the legendary Headless Horseman!
The Monkey’s Paw
One of the best stories ever written on the theme of being granted three wishes. W.W. Jacobs explores the belief that fate rules people’s lives and that those who tamper with it do so to their sorrow. In this tale, the sequence and consequences of the three wishes are deeply tragic.
The Necklace
With telling irony, Maupassant offers a dark jewel of a tale. Mathilde Loisel dreams of the finer things in life and is not content with her secure, middle-class home. The price she pays for a single evening of elegance is a life-time of drudgery and despair. This poignant story is staged with touching symbolism.
The Celebrated Jumping Frog of Calaveras County
This is perhaps the best-known of all Twain’s tales. It is a good, old-fashioned yarn which typifies the brawling, risk-taking, highly competitive society that was frontier America in the nineteenth century. The resilient Jim Smiley and his champion frog, Daniel Webster, are among the most memorable and endearing of Twain’s creations.
For over 30 years, Chamber Theatre Productions has provided students and teachers of literature, drama and language arts with original adaptations of classic short stories. Touring rural areas as well as major cities across the country, CTP has performed its innovative works for thousands of middle and high school students, many of whom might not otherwise have the opportunity to experience live theatre. Up to four national companies tour the country throughout the school year, employing as many as 65 actors, directors and technicians. The cast and crew of skilled professionals travel as self-contained units, equipped with all the scenic, costume and lighting elements necessary to create the magic of live theatre!
The productions are specifically designed to complement both middle and high school curricula, and are offered as field trips during school hours. Rather than present only one story per performance, CTP has developed a unique format of presenting five separate short stories by five different authors within a 90-minute time frame, allowing the company to offer a broad range of styles and genres for teachers to highlight within their classroom. Besides being used as a valuable teaching tool, the productions provide students with a field trip experience that is both educational and entertaining.
ENCORE!! An Original Two-Act Play
Each of the five stories in our ENCORE!!™ collection has a flavor that highlights the versatility of five great authors: Edgar Allan Poe, Washington Irving, W.W. Jacobs, Guy de Maupassant and Mark Twain. Their timeless glimpses into the human experience are brought to life on the stage.
The Tell Tale Heart
Poe, the master of the macabre, presents a story of the irrational hatred and fear of a psychopathic mind. A wildly disturbed personality commits the “perfect” crime only to be undone by the workings of a fevered imagination.
The Legend of Sleepy Hollow
Fantasy and reality are cleverly combined in this entertaining story from the pen of Washington Irving. This fanciful yarn relates the hilarious misfortunes of the great, gangling schoolmaster, Ichabod Crane, and his fateful midnight rendezvous with the legendary Headless Horseman!
The Monkey’s Paw
One of the best stories ever written on the theme of being granted three wishes. W.W. Jacobs explores the belief that fate rules people’s lives and that those who tamper with it do so to their sorrow. In this tale, the sequence and consequences of the three wishes are deeply tragic.
The Necklace
With telling irony, Maupassant offers a dark jewel of a tale. Mathilde Loisel dreams of the finer things in life and is not content with her secure, middle-class home. The price she pays for a single evening of elegance is a life-time of drudgery and despair. This poignant story is staged with touching symbolism.
The Celebrated Jumping Frog of Calaveras County
This is perhaps the best-known of all Twain’s tales. It is a good, old-fashioned yarn which typifies the brawling, risk-taking, highly competitive society that was frontier America in the nineteenth century. The resilient Jim Smiley and his champion frog, Daniel Webster, are among the most memorable and endearing of Twain’s creations.
For over 30 years, Chamber Theatre Productions has provided students and teachers of literature, drama and language arts with original adaptations of classic short stories. Touring rural areas as well as major cities across the country, CTP has performed its innovative works for thousands of middle and high school students, many of whom might not otherwise have the opportunity to experience live theatre. Up to four national companies tour the country throughout the school year, employing as many as 65 actors, directors and technicians. The cast and crew of skilled professionals travel as self-contained units, equipped with all the scenic, costume and lighting elements necessary to create the magic of live theatre!
The productions are specifically designed to complement both middle and high school curricula, and are offered as field trips during school hours. Rather than present only one story per performance, CTP has developed a unique format of presenting five separate short stories by five different authors within a 90-minute time frame, allowing the company to offer a broad range of styles and genres for teachers to highlight within their classroom. Besides being used as a valuable teaching tool, the productions provide students with a field trip experience that is both educational and entertaining.
Saturday, March 15, 2008
Theatre--Review
I am featuring a guest reviewer today, since the two (hopefully) regular reviewers are both unavailable (Duncan because he is still appearing in Driving Miss Daisy and Walter because he is on the faculty of the theatre department at UL-Lafayette). This review was written by a veteran of the Acadiana stage, Dr. Robert Sidman.
This afternoon and evening (March 15), in Fletcher Auditorium on the UL Lafayette campus, there will be the final performances of Paula Vogel’s Pulitzer Prize winning play, How I Learned To Drive. The play traces the life of Li’l Bit (Sarah Gauthier) from age eleven, when her Uncle Peck ( Blaine Peltier) molests her during her first driving lesson, to age eighteen, when she firmly and finally rejects seven years of his (unconsummated?) sexual advances. … Just letting you know this is not a dinner theatre outing with the family.
Sarah, a Performing Arts major, is perfectly cast as Li’l Bit. Her character emerges convincingly as an independent young woman, not just a victim. In fact, she could have belted Uncle Peck into the next parish if the script had called for that.
Blaine, a Performing Arts graduate, has the right balance of sleeze and smarminess as Uncle Peck. I wouldn’t have left his character with a child for one minute. My only advice to Blaine- don’t get type-cast. There were elements of your Uncle Peck character in Hound and Plaza Suite.
Greta Trosclair (Teenage Greek Chorus), a Performing Arts major, is extraordinary as Li’l Bit at eleven and Li’l Bit’s grandmother!
You can visualize the role of Brian Egland ( Male Greek Chorus), a Performing Arts major, by thinking, “Alan Arkin” in Little Miss Sunshine.
Samantha Riley (Female Greek Chorus), a nursing student, played multiple characters, including Li’l Bit’s mother and aunt. All I can say about Samantha is, when she had the stage I collapsed in spasms of laughter. The patients on her ward will have a treat.
Of course, a real hero in this production is Assistant Professor Justin Bates (Production Director). Scene changes and timing are seamless and flawless. As good as the cast is, he chose it and orchestrated the ensemble.
--Robert D. Sidman, Ph.D.
This afternoon and evening (March 15), in Fletcher Auditorium on the UL Lafayette campus, there will be the final performances of Paula Vogel’s Pulitzer Prize winning play, How I Learned To Drive. The play traces the life of Li’l Bit (Sarah Gauthier) from age eleven, when her Uncle Peck ( Blaine Peltier) molests her during her first driving lesson, to age eighteen, when she firmly and finally rejects seven years of his (unconsummated?) sexual advances. … Just letting you know this is not a dinner theatre outing with the family.
Sarah, a Performing Arts major, is perfectly cast as Li’l Bit. Her character emerges convincingly as an independent young woman, not just a victim. In fact, she could have belted Uncle Peck into the next parish if the script had called for that.
Blaine, a Performing Arts graduate, has the right balance of sleeze and smarminess as Uncle Peck. I wouldn’t have left his character with a child for one minute. My only advice to Blaine- don’t get type-cast. There were elements of your Uncle Peck character in Hound and Plaza Suite.
Greta Trosclair (Teenage Greek Chorus), a Performing Arts major, is extraordinary as Li’l Bit at eleven and Li’l Bit’s grandmother!
You can visualize the role of Brian Egland ( Male Greek Chorus), a Performing Arts major, by thinking, “Alan Arkin” in Little Miss Sunshine.
Samantha Riley (Female Greek Chorus), a nursing student, played multiple characters, including Li’l Bit’s mother and aunt. All I can say about Samantha is, when she had the stage I collapsed in spasms of laughter. The patients on her ward will have a treat.
Of course, a real hero in this production is Assistant Professor Justin Bates (Production Director). Scene changes and timing are seamless and flawless. As good as the cast is, he chose it and orchestrated the ensemble.
--Robert D. Sidman, Ph.D.
Friday, March 14, 2008
Theatre--Review
Ray Blum of the Daily Advertiser reviews Driving Miss Daisy in the March 14th issue. The March 7th issue of the Daily Advertiser has another article about Cite Des Arts and its new artistic director, Duncan Thistlewaite.
Thursday, March 13, 2008
Theatre--Performance
Driving Miss Daisy is beginning its last weekend of performance at Cite Des Arts.
Theatre--Performances (Weekend)
Thursday, March 13:
Driving Miss Daisy at Cite Des Arts (continuing)
How I Learned to Drive at UL-Lafayette (continuing)
Little Shop of Horrors at IPAL (continuing)
Beauty and the Beast at St. Thomas More High School (opening)
Friday, March 14:
Driving Miss Daisy at Cite Des Arts (continuing)
Little Shop of Horrors at IPAL (continuing)
How I Learned to Drive at UL-Lafayette (continuing)
Beauty and the Beast at St. Thomas More (continuing)
Saturday, March 15:
Driving Miss Daisy at Cite Des Arts (continuing)
Little Shop of Horrors at IPAL (continuing)
How I Learned to Drive at UL-Lafayette (continuing)
Beauty and the Beast at St. Thomas More (continuing)
Sunday, March 16:
Little Shop of Horrors at IPAL (continuing)
How I Learned to Drive at UL-Lafayette (continuing)
Beauty and the Beast at St. Thomas More (continuing)
Driving Miss Daisy at Cite Des Arts (continuing)
How I Learned to Drive at UL-Lafayette (continuing)
Little Shop of Horrors at IPAL (continuing)
Beauty and the Beast at St. Thomas More High School (opening)
Friday, March 14:
Driving Miss Daisy at Cite Des Arts (continuing)
Little Shop of Horrors at IPAL (continuing)
How I Learned to Drive at UL-Lafayette (continuing)
Beauty and the Beast at St. Thomas More (continuing)
Saturday, March 15:
Driving Miss Daisy at Cite Des Arts (continuing)
Little Shop of Horrors at IPAL (continuing)
How I Learned to Drive at UL-Lafayette (continuing)
Beauty and the Beast at St. Thomas More (continuing)
Sunday, March 16:
Little Shop of Horrors at IPAL (continuing)
How I Learned to Drive at UL-Lafayette (continuing)
Beauty and the Beast at St. Thomas More (continuing)
Theatre--Performance
St. Thomas More High School drama students will perform Beauty and the Beast beginning Thursday, March 13th and running through Sunday, March 16th. Thursday through Saturday, the shows will begin at 7:30 pm and on Sunday the show starts at 2 pm. Admission prices are $10 for adults, and $5 for children 12 and younger. For more information, contact the school at 984-7161.
Wednesday, March 12, 2008
Theatre--Performance
The Pulitzer Prize winning play How I Learned To Drive by Paula Vogel will open Wednesday, March 12th at 7:30 pm in Fletcher Hall, presented by the University of Louisiana at Lafayette Department of Performing Arts. The show will run through March 13-15 at 7:30pm and 15-16 at 2:00pm in Fletcher Hall, room 134 on the UL Lafayette campus.
Tickets for How I Learned To Drive are $10.00 for General Admission, $5.00 for UL Lafayette Alumni, Senior Citizens, children and students. UL Lafayette faculty, staff and students with a valid ID are admitted free of charge. Tickets are available at the door one hour prior to each performance. Due to some adult situations the suggested age for admittance is 14 and up. For further information please call the UL Lafayette Department of Performing Arts at 482-6357.
Tickets for How I Learned To Drive are $10.00 for General Admission, $5.00 for UL Lafayette Alumni, Senior Citizens, children and students. UL Lafayette faculty, staff and students with a valid ID are admitted free of charge. Tickets are available at the door one hour prior to each performance. Due to some adult situations the suggested age for admittance is 14 and up. For further information please call the UL Lafayette Department of Performing Arts at 482-6357.
Tuesday, March 11, 2008
Theatre--Auditions
The Abbey Players are pleased to announce auditions for their upcoming Spring production,Picasso at the Lapin Agile, by Steve Martin.
The Abbey Players strive for quality theatre by producing 3-4 well-rehearsed mainstage productions a year, with a children's production during the summer. It is a formula for success that has lasted over 30 years. Hosted productions from outside theatre companies are often added in between. Abbey Players mainstage productions typically run 4 or more weekends, giving the surrounding community an ample number of shows to attend.
The situation is this: on a night in 1904, Albert Einstein, 25 years old, wanders into the Lapin Agile, a small, rather dingy Paris bar hospitable to painters, writers and other eccentrics who are giving direction to the new century's avant-garde. Einstein is waiting for a woman friend, but in the course of the evening he also meets the future in the person of Pablo Picasso, 23.
Having already perceived the future in himself, Einstein is far more fascinated by the arrogant young Picasso than the painter is by him. At least at first. Einstein, after all, is a drone in a patent office by day; he's still a year away from the publication of his seminal work, "The Special Theory of Relativity." He's a nobody. And as a physicist, he's of a different species.
Picasso is already something of a celebrity, though not one with a talent for self-promotion to match that of Charles Dabernow Schmendimen, who also drops into the bar.
The piece, played without intermission, succeeds in being low-comedy funny while also suggesting that a great scientist and a great artist share a rarefied sense of beauty; they're both governed by esthetic laws that, though not easily proved, are innate in minds of genius.
The show will run mid-May thru June, 2008 and will be directed by Jerrod Arabie and assistant-directed by Pamela Broussard.
Open auditions will be held at the Abbey Players Theatre, 200 South State Street, Abbeville, LA. on the followng dates and times:
Sat. March 15, 1pm -3pm.
Sun. March 16, 1pm -3pm.
Mon. march 17, 7pm -9pm.
Sat. March 22, 1pm -3pm.
Sun. March 23, 1pm -3pm.
Various roles for men ages 18 - 60. Roles for women ages 18 - 40.
Volunteers for various other aspects of the show, besides acting, are needed as well! Any and all experience levels are encouraged to attend. If you've ever wanted to assist in any manner, or be involved with the Abbey Players or the arts in general, now is the time!
The Abbey Players strive for quality theatre by producing 3-4 well-rehearsed mainstage productions a year, with a children's production during the summer. It is a formula for success that has lasted over 30 years. Hosted productions from outside theatre companies are often added in between. Abbey Players mainstage productions typically run 4 or more weekends, giving the surrounding community an ample number of shows to attend.
The situation is this: on a night in 1904, Albert Einstein, 25 years old, wanders into the Lapin Agile, a small, rather dingy Paris bar hospitable to painters, writers and other eccentrics who are giving direction to the new century's avant-garde. Einstein is waiting for a woman friend, but in the course of the evening he also meets the future in the person of Pablo Picasso, 23.
Having already perceived the future in himself, Einstein is far more fascinated by the arrogant young Picasso than the painter is by him. At least at first. Einstein, after all, is a drone in a patent office by day; he's still a year away from the publication of his seminal work, "The Special Theory of Relativity." He's a nobody. And as a physicist, he's of a different species.
Picasso is already something of a celebrity, though not one with a talent for self-promotion to match that of Charles Dabernow Schmendimen, who also drops into the bar.
The piece, played without intermission, succeeds in being low-comedy funny while also suggesting that a great scientist and a great artist share a rarefied sense of beauty; they're both governed by esthetic laws that, though not easily proved, are innate in minds of genius.
The show will run mid-May thru June, 2008 and will be directed by Jerrod Arabie and assistant-directed by Pamela Broussard.
Open auditions will be held at the Abbey Players Theatre, 200 South State Street, Abbeville, LA. on the followng dates and times:
Sat. March 15, 1pm -3pm.
Sun. March 16, 1pm -3pm.
Mon. march 17, 7pm -9pm.
Sat. March 22, 1pm -3pm.
Sun. March 23, 1pm -3pm.
Various roles for men ages 18 - 60. Roles for women ages 18 - 40.
Volunteers for various other aspects of the show, besides acting, are needed as well! Any and all experience levels are encouraged to attend. If you've ever wanted to assist in any manner, or be involved with the Abbey Players or the arts in general, now is the time!
Theatre--Performance
Little Shop Of Horrors is entering its final weekend at IPAL.
The IPAL orchestra, under the direction of Mr. Bob Morgan
(from left to right) Crystal, Ronnette and Chiffon
"Son, be a dentist!"
Dental Bonding--Orin and Seymour
Searching for "Somewhere That's Green"
The IPAL orchestra, under the direction of Mr. Bob Morgan
(from left to right) Crystal, Ronnette and Chiffon
"Son, be a dentist!"
Dental Bonding--Orin and Seymour
Searching for "Somewhere That's Green"
Monday, March 10, 2008
Theatre--Review
If Laurel and Hardy had met as Ph.D. students in Theatre, Waiting For Godot is the play they would have written. It's grad student philosophy married to vaudeville shtick. But it's like candy-coated medicine; the candy doesn't always disguise the taste.
Blaine Peltier and several students from the Arts Academy had a go at Godot this past weekend with favorable results. The set was nicely executed--just a rock, a withered tree and a sun/moon in the sky. The action extended out into the audience area as well. Costumes and makeup were mostly successful. Pozzo's mime makeup was a good touch and made the actress' face very easy to read. Lucky's makeup had somewhat the effect of a zombie movie but worked well for the character. I'm not so sure about the decision to make the boy, who herds goats, into a girl who appears to be a summer camp counselor. It was as if Marcia Brady had been asked to do someone a favor.
Lighting is a serious problem at the NP Moss Annex. Mr. Peltier is forced to eke out what he can from approximately the same number of lights as you find on a VW. As a consequence, some important action and dialogue is necessarily rendered in light which is dimmer than my cousin, Ed. Patrons looking to do a good deed for the local theatre community might want to help out with a contribution for improved lighting for this program. Mr. Peltier and his students have earned it. While we're at it--padding for the wooden seats would be high on the wish list of anyone whose legs have gone to sleep while watching a production in the auditorium.
David Hubyn and Hendrick Mattyson had a nice chemistry as Vladimir and Estragon, the two tramps who quarrel, make up and wait for someone who will never arrive. Jamie Pittman gave an energetic performance as Pozzo, the Everyman of the play. Angie Jaramillo was a distinctly sinister Lucky, Pozzo's living Shadow. As the Boy, Amanda Bonnette was like a sunbeam on an overcast day.
The actors were committed and energetic and all had excellent projection. Unfortunately, the Annex is a difficult space acoustically. It is echoey and if one sits at any distance from the stage the echoes begin to overlap the words. Young people often speak very rapidly and the result is that sound becomes a jumble by the middle of the auditorium. This may be less a problem in the first two or three rows but where I sat most of the dialogue could have been Romanian. Under the circumstances, the actors would have benefited from a greater emphasis on the kinds of business which would demonstrate the text or replace it altogether. Mr. Peltier's stage picture was always well-focused but, in the absence of clear dialogue, the actions of the characters could sometimes seem a bit random and forced. It was a bit like math class; I knew where the professor was--just not what he was doing.
Choosing a play is a lot more difficult than most people realize. Producers must find a play which has both artistic and commercial merit and which showcases the talent available to you. Furthermore, it must be done on a budget, which at the Arts Academy means the spare change under the sofa cushions. Mr. Peltier and his cast have made the most of their resources but they are mendicants who live on the kindness of strangers. Perhaps those strangers would be more numerous and more generous if they were presented with plays that had a bit more entertainment value and a bit less literary cachet. Just a thought....
Unfortunately, I could only stay for the first act of this production due to scheduling conflicts but even so I saw enough to say "Congratulations" to Mr. Peltier and his cast for a creditable production of a VERY difficult play.
----Walter Brown
Blaine Peltier and several students from the Arts Academy had a go at Godot this past weekend with favorable results. The set was nicely executed--just a rock, a withered tree and a sun/moon in the sky. The action extended out into the audience area as well. Costumes and makeup were mostly successful. Pozzo's mime makeup was a good touch and made the actress' face very easy to read. Lucky's makeup had somewhat the effect of a zombie movie but worked well for the character. I'm not so sure about the decision to make the boy, who herds goats, into a girl who appears to be a summer camp counselor. It was as if Marcia Brady had been asked to do someone a favor.
Lighting is a serious problem at the NP Moss Annex. Mr. Peltier is forced to eke out what he can from approximately the same number of lights as you find on a VW. As a consequence, some important action and dialogue is necessarily rendered in light which is dimmer than my cousin, Ed. Patrons looking to do a good deed for the local theatre community might want to help out with a contribution for improved lighting for this program. Mr. Peltier and his students have earned it. While we're at it--padding for the wooden seats would be high on the wish list of anyone whose legs have gone to sleep while watching a production in the auditorium.
David Hubyn and Hendrick Mattyson had a nice chemistry as Vladimir and Estragon, the two tramps who quarrel, make up and wait for someone who will never arrive. Jamie Pittman gave an energetic performance as Pozzo, the Everyman of the play. Angie Jaramillo was a distinctly sinister Lucky, Pozzo's living Shadow. As the Boy, Amanda Bonnette was like a sunbeam on an overcast day.
The actors were committed and energetic and all had excellent projection. Unfortunately, the Annex is a difficult space acoustically. It is echoey and if one sits at any distance from the stage the echoes begin to overlap the words. Young people often speak very rapidly and the result is that sound becomes a jumble by the middle of the auditorium. This may be less a problem in the first two or three rows but where I sat most of the dialogue could have been Romanian. Under the circumstances, the actors would have benefited from a greater emphasis on the kinds of business which would demonstrate the text or replace it altogether. Mr. Peltier's stage picture was always well-focused but, in the absence of clear dialogue, the actions of the characters could sometimes seem a bit random and forced. It was a bit like math class; I knew where the professor was--just not what he was doing.
Choosing a play is a lot more difficult than most people realize. Producers must find a play which has both artistic and commercial merit and which showcases the talent available to you. Furthermore, it must be done on a budget, which at the Arts Academy means the spare change under the sofa cushions. Mr. Peltier and his cast have made the most of their resources but they are mendicants who live on the kindness of strangers. Perhaps those strangers would be more numerous and more generous if they were presented with plays that had a bit more entertainment value and a bit less literary cachet. Just a thought....
Unfortunately, I could only stay for the first act of this production due to scheduling conflicts but even so I saw enough to say "Congratulations" to Mr. Peltier and his cast for a creditable production of a VERY difficult play.
----Walter Brown
Friday, March 7, 2008
Theatre--Performance
The University of Louisiana at Lafayette Department of Performing Arts presents the Pulitzer Prize winning play How I Learned To Drive by Paula Vogel. Performances are March 12-15 at 7:30pm and 15-16 at 2:00pm in Fletcher Hall, room 134 on the UL Lafayette campus.
Justin Bates, assistant professor of Acting and Creative Drama at UL Lafayette, is directing this production. Professor Bates has worked as both actor and director in over 20 productions with educational and professional theatres throughout the United States and Canada. Actors for this production include students from the Performing Arts Department at UL-Lafayette as well as members of the community.
Balmy evenings in rural 1950’s Maryland are fraught with danger. Seductions can happen anywhere, from the bank of a river to the front seat of a car, where a young self- conscious girl is learning to drive. To Li’l Bit, the play’s protagonist, the radio is the most important part of the car, but the pop music of the fifties can never quite drown out the harrowing images of her mind.
This play is a wildly funny, surprising and devastating tale of survival as seen through the lens of a troubling relationship between a young girl and an older man. How I Learned To Drive is the story of a woman who learns the rules of the world and life from behind the wheel.
Tickets for How I Learned To Drive are $10.00 for General Admission, $5.00 for UL Lafayette Alumni, Senior Citizens, children and students. UL Lafayette faculty, staff and students with a valid ID are admitted free of charge. Tickets are available at the door one hour prior to each performance. Due to some adult situations the suggested age for admittance is 14 and up. For further information please call the UL Lafayette Department of Performing Arts at 482-6357.
Justin Bates, assistant professor of Acting and Creative Drama at UL Lafayette, is directing this production. Professor Bates has worked as both actor and director in over 20 productions with educational and professional theatres throughout the United States and Canada. Actors for this production include students from the Performing Arts Department at UL-Lafayette as well as members of the community.
Balmy evenings in rural 1950’s Maryland are fraught with danger. Seductions can happen anywhere, from the bank of a river to the front seat of a car, where a young self- conscious girl is learning to drive. To Li’l Bit, the play’s protagonist, the radio is the most important part of the car, but the pop music of the fifties can never quite drown out the harrowing images of her mind.
This play is a wildly funny, surprising and devastating tale of survival as seen through the lens of a troubling relationship between a young girl and an older man. How I Learned To Drive is the story of a woman who learns the rules of the world and life from behind the wheel.
Tickets for How I Learned To Drive are $10.00 for General Admission, $5.00 for UL Lafayette Alumni, Senior Citizens, children and students. UL Lafayette faculty, staff and students with a valid ID are admitted free of charge. Tickets are available at the door one hour prior to each performance. Due to some adult situations the suggested age for admittance is 14 and up. For further information please call the UL Lafayette Department of Performing Arts at 482-6357.
Thursday, March 6, 2008
Theatre--Performance (Weekend)
Thursday, March 6:
Driving Miss Daisy at Cite Des Arts (continuing)
No Teacher Left Standing by Acting Up in Acadiana (continuing)
Friday, March 7:
Waiting for Godot at N.P. Moss Annex (opening)
Ain't Misbehavin' at Teche Theatre for the Performing Arts (opening)
Driving Miss Daisy at Cite Des Arts (continuing)
Little Shop of Horrors at IPAL (continuing)
No Teacher Left Standing by Acting Up in Acadiana (continuing)
Saturday, March 8
The Producers at the Heymann Center (one night only)
Waiting for Godot at N.P. Moss Annex (continuing)
Ain't Misbehavin' at TTFTPA (continuing)
Driving Miss Daisy at Cite Des Arts (continuing)
Little Shop of Horrors at IPAL (continuing)
No Teacher Left Standing by Acting Up in Acadiana (continuing)
Sunday, March 9:
Little Shop of Horrors at IPAL (continuing)
Aint' Misbehavin' at TTFTPA (continuing)
Driving Miss Daisy at Cite Des Arts (continuing)
No Teacher Left Standing by Acting Up in Acadiana (continuing)
Friday, March 7:
Waiting for Godot at N.P. Moss Annex (opening)
Ain't Misbehavin' at Teche Theatre for the Performing Arts (opening)
Driving Miss Daisy at Cite Des Arts (continuing)
Little Shop of Horrors at IPAL (continuing)
No Teacher Left Standing by Acting Up in Acadiana (continuing)
Saturday, March 8
The Producers at the Heymann Center (one night only)
Waiting for Godot at N.P. Moss Annex (continuing)
Ain't Misbehavin' at TTFTPA (continuing)
Driving Miss Daisy at Cite Des Arts (continuing)
Little Shop of Horrors at IPAL (continuing)
No Teacher Left Standing by Acting Up in Acadiana (continuing)
Sunday, March 9:
Little Shop of Horrors at IPAL (continuing)
Aint' Misbehavin' at TTFTPA (continuing)
Tuesday, March 4, 2008
Theatre--Review
Based on a cult classic film of the same name, Little Shop Of Horrors at the Essanee Theatre in New Iberia is a variation on the Faust legend as scored by Motown. The music by Alan Menken is catchy and the book and lyrics by Howard Ashman are clever and rather downbeat if you pay attention. The plot concerns the Oliver Twist-like Seymour Krelbourn who works as a virtual slave in a skid row flower shop owned by Mr. Mushnik. Seymour loves from afar his lovely coworker, Audrey, who has issues of her own. She is in a codependent relationship with a gas-sniffing sadist who has become a dentist on the theory that if you do what you love, you'll never have to work. And then--a mysterious plant comes into Seymour's possession and everything changes....
The set is uncredited which is a shame. It is very clever and the sliding panels used for the shop front are handled very well by the crew. The scene changes look very professional. Lighting by Michael Caffrey, Sr. is very evocative and the painting of a cityscape which can be seen on the back wall of the stage above the set is very effective. The sound team and light operators are sharp as can be and make the show look and sound effortless. Julie Kilgore's costumes and makeup are well-chosen and give everyone a distinctive look.
Director Donald Voorhies has assembled an excellent cast and is ably abetted by a fine orchestra under the baton of Mr. Bob Morgan. The singing is first-rate and the choreography is kept simple and to the point.
Little Shop rises or falls on the talents of Seymour and Audrey, the star-crossed lovers. Evan Melancon is perfect as Seymour. He has a pleasant voice and phenomenal timing. He engages our sympathy even in the process of committing some pretty heinous acts. Kim Monroe is a cross between Betty Boop and Barbie with a fine voice and appealing stage presence. As Orin Scrivello, DDS (darned deranged sadist) Brett LeBlanc manages to be unapologetically nasty and funny--while singing in a plastic bubble helmet!
Able support is provided by Michael Caffrey, Sr. as Mushnik and Jennifer Delcambre, Jenny Gonsoulin and Jacqueline McCarthy as the girl group who act as a sort of Greek Chorus. Travis Guillory is a standout in multiple roles.
This is a first rate show with no weak parts. The large chorus creates the world of a fantasy skid row and populates with characters we believe belong in that world. I thoroughly enjoyed this show and my hat is off to everyone involved. This is another don't miss show and it only runs this weekend and next. Get your reservations now or hate yourself when the chance has passed.
--Walter Brown
The set is uncredited which is a shame. It is very clever and the sliding panels used for the shop front are handled very well by the crew. The scene changes look very professional. Lighting by Michael Caffrey, Sr. is very evocative and the painting of a cityscape which can be seen on the back wall of the stage above the set is very effective. The sound team and light operators are sharp as can be and make the show look and sound effortless. Julie Kilgore's costumes and makeup are well-chosen and give everyone a distinctive look.
Director Donald Voorhies has assembled an excellent cast and is ably abetted by a fine orchestra under the baton of Mr. Bob Morgan. The singing is first-rate and the choreography is kept simple and to the point.
Little Shop rises or falls on the talents of Seymour and Audrey, the star-crossed lovers. Evan Melancon is perfect as Seymour. He has a pleasant voice and phenomenal timing. He engages our sympathy even in the process of committing some pretty heinous acts. Kim Monroe is a cross between Betty Boop and Barbie with a fine voice and appealing stage presence. As Orin Scrivello, DDS (darned deranged sadist) Brett LeBlanc manages to be unapologetically nasty and funny--while singing in a plastic bubble helmet!
Able support is provided by Michael Caffrey, Sr. as Mushnik and Jennifer Delcambre, Jenny Gonsoulin and Jacqueline McCarthy as the girl group who act as a sort of Greek Chorus. Travis Guillory is a standout in multiple roles.
This is a first rate show with no weak parts. The large chorus creates the world of a fantasy skid row and populates with characters we believe belong in that world. I thoroughly enjoyed this show and my hat is off to everyone involved. This is another don't miss show and it only runs this weekend and next. Get your reservations now or hate yourself when the chance has passed.
--Walter Brown
Monday, March 3, 2008
Theatre--Review
A new feature is being added to the blog: Two local theatre mainstays have agreed to begin reviewing area productions. Duncan Thistlewaite, artistic director at Cite Des Arts, and Walter Brown, board member and former artistic director of the Evangeline Players and current instructor at the University of Louisiana--Lafayette, will be reviewing shows for the website. Neither will review shows produced by the companies/organizations with which they are associated. Walter begins with a review of Driving Miss Daisy, now running at Cite Des Arts.
Driving Miss Daisy tells the story of two people who seem to be worlds apart but who are united in being outsiders in pre-Civil Rights America. Miss Daisy is an elderly Jewish widow in Atlanta, Georgia. Her son, Boolie, hires a black man (none too young himself) to drive her and keep her company. Over the next two decades they develop a close and abiding bond which lasts to Miss Daisy's final days.
The success of Driving Miss Daisy rests solely on how much you like the characters and invest in their various relationships. Miss Daisy, in particular, is a tricky part which can seem to be simply unpleasant rather than desperate about a life which is slipping out of her control.
The production at Cite Des Arts (Lafayette, corner of 3rd and Vine) is the warmest production I have seen. Jenny Felder as Miss Daisy does give us a feeling of a woman struggling with loss and uncertainty. Even when Daisy is being difficult, we feel sympathy for her loss of independence and respect for her determination to hold on to her dignity. Miss Felder projects a woman many years older than herself with a consistent body language and subtly effective makeup and costuming. Her vocal work is very good as well. A.D. Dugar is a splendid Hoke--his is a wonderfully natural performance which reveals a man with too much dignity to be beaten down by life and with reserves of strength and generosity of spirit which Miss Daisy will need more and more as the years go by. Mr. Dugar mimes the car doors and the myriad small acts of driving superbly.
Duncan Thistlethwaite does double duty as Boolie Werthen, her assimilating businessman son and as the director/designer of this production. He shines in all of these roles. Thistlethwaite makes Boolie much more of a presence than I remembered from past productions, presenting a man who can handle his difficult mother, his social-climbing wife and his employees with charm and compassion.
The set is very clever with one area representing Miss Daisy's home, the opposite side of the stage representing Boolie's office and a revolving platform which has a set of car seats and a steering wheel (!) mounted on it. When the car is turned away from the audience it becomes a tombstone and the wall of a nursing home. The lighting is atmospheric without seeming murky and the music is well-chosen and evocative of mood, place and time.
I recommend this production to anyone who loves good theatre. This is an outstanding production and a credit to all concerned. Let's give it the audience it deserves!
Driving Miss Daisy tells the story of two people who seem to be worlds apart but who are united in being outsiders in pre-Civil Rights America. Miss Daisy is an elderly Jewish widow in Atlanta, Georgia. Her son, Boolie, hires a black man (none too young himself) to drive her and keep her company. Over the next two decades they develop a close and abiding bond which lasts to Miss Daisy's final days.
The success of Driving Miss Daisy rests solely on how much you like the characters and invest in their various relationships. Miss Daisy, in particular, is a tricky part which can seem to be simply unpleasant rather than desperate about a life which is slipping out of her control.
The production at Cite Des Arts (Lafayette, corner of 3rd and Vine) is the warmest production I have seen. Jenny Felder as Miss Daisy does give us a feeling of a woman struggling with loss and uncertainty. Even when Daisy is being difficult, we feel sympathy for her loss of independence and respect for her determination to hold on to her dignity. Miss Felder projects a woman many years older than herself with a consistent body language and subtly effective makeup and costuming. Her vocal work is very good as well. A.D. Dugar is a splendid Hoke--his is a wonderfully natural performance which reveals a man with too much dignity to be beaten down by life and with reserves of strength and generosity of spirit which Miss Daisy will need more and more as the years go by. Mr. Dugar mimes the car doors and the myriad small acts of driving superbly.
Duncan Thistlethwaite does double duty as Boolie Werthen, her assimilating businessman son and as the director/designer of this production. He shines in all of these roles. Thistlethwaite makes Boolie much more of a presence than I remembered from past productions, presenting a man who can handle his difficult mother, his social-climbing wife and his employees with charm and compassion.
The set is very clever with one area representing Miss Daisy's home, the opposite side of the stage representing Boolie's office and a revolving platform which has a set of car seats and a steering wheel (!) mounted on it. When the car is turned away from the audience it becomes a tombstone and the wall of a nursing home. The lighting is atmospheric without seeming murky and the music is well-chosen and evocative of mood, place and time.
I recommend this production to anyone who loves good theatre. This is an outstanding production and a credit to all concerned. Let's give it the audience it deserves!
Theatre--Performance
MARCH 7 & 8 • 8 PM • NP MOSS ANNEX AUDITORIUM • 801 MUDD AVE
ADMISSION: FREE • DONATIONS GRACIOUSLY ACCEPTED
CALL 262-0620 OR 212-4471 FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Sunday, March 2, 2008
Theatre--Auditions
Michael Durand, the director of Moon Over Buffalo for IPAL, is still working on fully casting the show. He is looking in particular for 4 actors, 2 male and 2 female, to complete the show. He may also be interested in backstage voices to fill in for a large scene.
The characters that he is trying to cast are:
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.
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.
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.
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.
If you are interested in any of these parts, please contact Michael at IPAL.
The characters that he is trying to cast are:
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.
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.
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.
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.
If you are interested in any of these parts, please contact Michael at IPAL.
Friday, February 29, 2008
Theatre--Performance
The Theatre League of Louisiana, in conjuction with the Heymann Center, will present the national tour of The Producers on March 8th at 7:30 pm.
Bialystock and Bloom! Those names should strike terror and hysteria in anyone familiar with Mel Brooks’ classic cult comedy film. Now as a big Broadway musical, The Producers once again sets the standard for modern, outrageous, in-your-face humor. It is a truly “boffo” hit, winning a record twelve Tony® Awards and wowing capacity crowds night after night.
The plot is simple: a down-on-his-luck Broadway producer and his mild-mannered accountant come up with a scheme to produce the most notorious flop in history thereby bilking their backers (all “little old ladies”) out of millions of dollars. Only one thing goes awry: the show is a smash hit! The antics of Max Bialystock and Leo Bloom as they maneuver their way fecklessly through finding a show (the gloriously offensive “Springtime For Hitler”), hiring a director, raising the money and finally going to prison for their misdeeds is a lesson in broad comic construction. At the core of the insanely funny adventure is a poignant emotional journey of two very different men who become friends.
Bialystock and Bloom! Those names should strike terror and hysteria in anyone familiar with Mel Brooks’ classic cult comedy film. Now as a big Broadway musical, The Producers once again sets the standard for modern, outrageous, in-your-face humor. It is a truly “boffo” hit, winning a record twelve Tony® Awards and wowing capacity crowds night after night.
The plot is simple: a down-on-his-luck Broadway producer and his mild-mannered accountant come up with a scheme to produce the most notorious flop in history thereby bilking their backers (all “little old ladies”) out of millions of dollars. Only one thing goes awry: the show is a smash hit! The antics of Max Bialystock and Leo Bloom as they maneuver their way fecklessly through finding a show (the gloriously offensive “Springtime For Hitler”), hiring a director, raising the money and finally going to prison for their misdeeds is a lesson in broad comic construction. At the core of the insanely funny adventure is a poignant emotional journey of two very different men who become friends.
Theatre--Performance
The Teche Theatre for the Performing Arts presents Ain't Misbehavin', opening on March 7th and running March 8th, 9th, 11, 12th and 13th. All performances except March 9th will be at 7:30 pm. The March 9th performance is a matinee, and will begin at 2 pm. Admission is $10 and tickets will go on sale at the Fads starting March 3, 2008.
The outrageously prodigious comic and musical soul of 1930s Harlem lives on in this rollicking, swinging, finger-snapping revue that is still considered one of Broadway’s best.
The inimitable Thomas “Fats” Waller rose to international fame during the Golden Age of the Cotton Club, honky tonk dives along Lenox Avenue, rent parties, stride piano players and that jumpin’ new beat, Swing. Although not quite a biography, Ain’t Misbehavin’ evokes the delightful humor and infectious energy of this American original as a versatile cast struts, strums and sings the songs he made famous in a career that ranged from uptown clubs to downtown Tin Pan Alley to Hollywood and concert stages in the U.S., Canada and Europe.
Ain’t Misbehavin’ is one of the most popular, well-crafted revues of all time – sometimes sassy, sometimes sultry, with moments of devastating beauty. Ain’t Misbehavin’ is simply unforgettable.
The outrageously prodigious comic and musical soul of 1930s Harlem lives on in this rollicking, swinging, finger-snapping revue that is still considered one of Broadway’s best.
The inimitable Thomas “Fats” Waller rose to international fame during the Golden Age of the Cotton Club, honky tonk dives along Lenox Avenue, rent parties, stride piano players and that jumpin’ new beat, Swing. Although not quite a biography, Ain’t Misbehavin’ evokes the delightful humor and infectious energy of this American original as a versatile cast struts, strums and sings the songs he made famous in a career that ranged from uptown clubs to downtown Tin Pan Alley to Hollywood and concert stages in the U.S., Canada and Europe.
Ain’t Misbehavin’ is one of the most popular, well-crafted revues of all time – sometimes sassy, sometimes sultry, with moments of devastating beauty. Ain’t Misbehavin’ is simply unforgettable.
Wednesday, February 27, 2008
Theatre--Performance
Cité des Arts’ production of Driving Miss Daisy opens this Thursday, February 28th at 7:30pm. Sponsored by AT&T, the 1987 Pulitzer Prize-winning play by Alfred Uhry and directed by Duncan Thistlethwaite, will run Thursdays through Saturdays at 7:30pm for three weeks ending on March 15th.
Set in the 1960s, a white Southern matron develops an unusual friendship with her African-American chauffeur, based on trust, respect and companionship. It covers over twenty years of the pair's life together as they slowly build a relationship that transcends their differences. The production, directed by Duncan Thistlethwaite, stars Acadiana theatre veterans Jenny Felder as Daisy, A.D. Dugar as Hoke and Duncan Thistlethwaite as Boolie.
WHEN: February 28th, 29th, March 1st, 6th, 7th, 8th, 13th, 14th, 15th at 7:30 p.m.
WHERE: Cité des Arts, 109 Vine St., downtown Lafayette, between Jefferson St. and Third St.
COST: Ticket prices are $15.00 for adults and $10.00 for Senior Citizens, 65+ and Students of any age.
For additional information and reservations, please call Cité des Arts at
337-291-1122.
Theatre--Article
The Times of Acadiana has an article about Acting Up (in Acadiana)'s No Teacher Left Standing in its February 26, 2008 issue.
Tuesday, February 26, 2008
Theatre--Performance
The IPAL production of Little Shop of Horrors opens to the public on Friday, February 29th at 7:30 pm. For more information or tickets, contact IPAL.
Monday, February 25, 2008
Theatre--Performance
TheatreworksUSA, in conjuction with the Heymann Center, will present Freedom Train on March 3, 2008 at 10:00 am.
Freedom Train tells the thrilling story of Harriet Tubman, the Moses of her people, in a fascinating series of highly theatrical scenes that use dance, dialogue, and music of the period. Songs include "Follow the Drinking Gourd," "Steal Away," "Wade in the Water," "Good News, the Chariot's A-comin'," and many others still sung today. Freedom Train is the story of self-sacrifice, dedication and survival, laced with warmth and a sense of humor that celebrates the human spirit -- a universal story for all(approximately one-hour in length).
For tickets or more information, contact TheatreworksUSA at 800-497-5007 or on the internet at http://www.theatreworksusa.org.
Freedom Train tells the thrilling story of Harriet Tubman, the Moses of her people, in a fascinating series of highly theatrical scenes that use dance, dialogue, and music of the period. Songs include "Follow the Drinking Gourd," "Steal Away," "Wade in the Water," "Good News, the Chariot's A-comin'," and many others still sung today. Freedom Train is the story of self-sacrifice, dedication and survival, laced with warmth and a sense of humor that celebrates the human spirit -- a universal story for all(approximately one-hour in length).
For tickets or more information, contact TheatreworksUSA at 800-497-5007 or on the internet at http://www.theatreworksusa.org.
Theatre--Performance
The Lafayette Parish High School Arts Academy will perform Samuel Beckett’s masterpiece,Waiting For Godot on March 7th and 8th at the N.P. Moss Annex Auditorium at 8PM. Admission is free to the public. Donations, however, are graciously accepted.
The storyline evolves around two men waiting for someone – or some thing – named Godot. Vladimir and Estragon wait near a tree on a barren stretch of road, inhabiting a drama spun from their own consciousness. The result is a comical wordplay of poetry, dream-scapes, and nonsense, which has been interpreted as a somber summation of mankind’s inexhaustible search for meaning. His play remains one of the most magical and beautiful allegories of our time.
The storyline evolves around two men waiting for someone – or some thing – named Godot. Vladimir and Estragon wait near a tree on a barren stretch of road, inhabiting a drama spun from their own consciousness. The result is a comical wordplay of poetry, dream-scapes, and nonsense, which has been interpreted as a somber summation of mankind’s inexhaustible search for meaning. His play remains one of the most magical and beautiful allegories of our time.
Theatre--Performance
The Iberia Performing Arts League will present its production of Little Shop of Horrors beginning on Friday, February 29th and running Thursday, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays thru March 16. Performances will be in the Essanee Theater on Iberia Street in New Iberia. Ticket or other information can be obtained by calling the theater at 364-6114 or by e-mailing littleshop@cox.net . All seats are reserved and are $10 in advance and $15 at the door. The show is not recommended for children 12 or under due to mild violence and language. Strobe lights and other special effects will be used.
Thursday, February 21, 2008
Theatre--Article/Reviews
Cody Daigle has written an article in the February 20th issue of the Times of Acadiana on his personal response to watching the Off Off Broadway production of his show Providence.
Reviews of Providence in New York can be seen at:
NYTheatre.com,
StageBuzz and
Laurie Lawson of Offbway.
Reviews of Providence in New York can be seen at:
NYTheatre.com,
StageBuzz and
Laurie Lawson of Offbway.
Theatre--Performance
Acting Up (in Acadiana) restages its original production No Teacher Left Standing at the Acadiana Center for the Arts on February 28, 29, March 1, 6, 7, & 8 at 8 PM. The project explores and spoofs the shortcomings in our educational system, particularly the frustrations with No Child Left Behind. The audience is invited to stay for a panel discussion following the show on Friday February 29th. The panel will have former teachers, current teachers, teachers from alternative schools, as well as the actors and the director of the production.
No Teacher Left Standing will feature company members Hannah and Ricky Briggs, Lian Cheramie, Kara Guarisco, David Guarisco, Katie Keator and Katie
Lahey as well as Junior Company members and other professional associates. Paige Krause will develop choreography, and Amy Waguespack directs the project.General admission tickets will be available at the Acadiana Center for the Arts beginning February 18th. All tickets are $10 and will also be available at the door. For tickets call (337) 233-7060. For more information, call (337) 739-4273.
No Teacher Left Standing will feature company members Hannah and Ricky Briggs, Lian Cheramie, Kara Guarisco, David Guarisco, Katie Keator and Katie
Lahey as well as Junior Company members and other professional associates. Paige Krause will develop choreography, and Amy Waguespack directs the project.General admission tickets will be available at the Acadiana Center for the Arts beginning February 18th. All tickets are $10 and will also be available at the door. For tickets call (337) 233-7060. For more information, call (337) 739-4273.
Theatre--Performance Assistance Needed
Donald "Doc" Voorhies, the director of Little Shop of Horrors at IPAL, is asking for production assistance. He needs a strobe light to use in the show, but doesn't have one of sufficient strength. "Doc" can be contacted at docvoorhies@cox.net.
Tuesday, February 19, 2008
Theatre--Performance Postponed
The dates for Driving Miss Daisy have changed due to illness. Public performances are now scheduled for February 28th, 29th, March 1st, 6th, 7th, 8th, 13th, 14th, 15th at 7:30 p.m., at Cité des Arts, 109 Vine St., downtown Lafayette, between Jefferson St. and Third St.
Monday, February 18, 2008
Theatre--Performance
The Theatre League of Louisiana presents the music of Billy Joel in Movin' Out, a jukebox musical featuring the songs of Billy Joel, on February 24 at 7:30 pm.
Conceived by Twyla Tharp, the musical tells the story of a generation of American youth growing up on Long Island during the 1960s and their experiences with the Vietnam War. The principal characters are drawn from those who appeared in various Joel tunes: high school sweethearts Brenda and Eddie ("Scenes from an Italian Restaurant"), James ("James"), Judy ("Why Judy Why"), and Tony (Anthony in "Movin' Out"). The show is unusual in that, unlike the traditional musical, it essentially is a series of dances linked by a thin plot, and none of the dancers sing. All the vocals are performed by a pianist and band suspended on a platform above the stage while the dancers act out the narrative sans dialogue, making the show, in essence, a rock ballet.
This event is part of TLL's 2007-2008 Broadway Series.
For ticket information(prices: $56.50, $46.00, $37.00 plus handling fees), contact the Heymann Box Office at 291-5555.
Conceived by Twyla Tharp, the musical tells the story of a generation of American youth growing up on Long Island during the 1960s and their experiences with the Vietnam War. The principal characters are drawn from those who appeared in various Joel tunes: high school sweethearts Brenda and Eddie ("Scenes from an Italian Restaurant"), James ("James"), Judy ("Why Judy Why"), and Tony (Anthony in "Movin' Out"). The show is unusual in that, unlike the traditional musical, it essentially is a series of dances linked by a thin plot, and none of the dancers sing. All the vocals are performed by a pianist and band suspended on a platform above the stage while the dancers act out the narrative sans dialogue, making the show, in essence, a rock ballet.
This event is part of TLL's 2007-2008 Broadway Series.
For ticket information(prices: $56.50, $46.00, $37.00 plus handling fees), contact the Heymann Box Office at 291-5555.
Theatre--Audition (2nd Post)
IPAL will be holding auditions for their next play, Moon Over Buffalo, on February 18th from 5:30 pm to 7 pm at the old Essenee Theatre on Iberia Street in New Iberia.
Call 364-6114 for information or to schedule an audition date other than tonight
Call 364-6114 for information or to schedule an audition date other than tonight
Saturday, February 16, 2008
Theatre--Article
Local playwright Cody Daigle has written an article, published by the Times of Acadiana in the February 13th edition, about the Lafayette Parish High School Arts Academy (including the theatre program).
Friday, February 15, 2008
Theatre--Auditions
The Eunice Players' Theatre is holding auditions for the first play of the 39th season, The Last Night of Ballyhoo, at 6:30 pm on February 18th and 19th.
Two men, ages 20-50, and two women, ages 18-25, are needed for the two act comedy. The Players also need volunteers to assist with set decoration and backstage duties. Production is projected for early April.
Auditions will be held at the theater on South Second Street. For more information, contact Gabe Ortego at 331-0806.
Two men, ages 20-50, and two women, ages 18-25, are needed for the two act comedy. The Players also need volunteers to assist with set decoration and backstage duties. Production is projected for early April.
Auditions will be held at the theater on South Second Street. For more information, contact Gabe Ortego at 331-0806.
Theatre--Performance
Acting Up (in Acadiana) will restage its original production of No Teacher Left Standing at the Acadiana Center for the Arts on February 28 and 29 and March 1 and 6 through 8 at 8 pm.
Company director Amy Waguespack says that the program explores and spoofs the shortcomings in the educational system, dealing particularly with the No Child Left Behind program. The audience will be invited to stay after the show on February 29 for a panel discussion, featuring former teachers, current teachers, the actors, writers and director among others.
General admission tickets will be available at the Acadiana Center for the Arts or at the door. Prices are $10 per person. For more information, please call 739-4273.
Company director Amy Waguespack says that the program explores and spoofs the shortcomings in the educational system, dealing particularly with the No Child Left Behind program. The audience will be invited to stay after the show on February 29 for a panel discussion, featuring former teachers, current teachers, the actors, writers and director among others.
General admission tickets will be available at the Acadiana Center for the Arts or at the door. Prices are $10 per person. For more information, please call 739-4273.
Performing Arts--Scholarship
PASA is currently accepting applications from individuals and non-profit groups for the L.Hill Bonin Scholarship award for performing arts students. The application deadline is March 1, 2008. Interested applicants can download an application as well as scholarship requirements from www. pasaonline.org.
Guidelines for the L. Hill Bonin, Jr. Memorial Scholarship Award, administered by Performing Arts Society of Acadiana (PASA), are available for high school and college students pursuing short-time educational and training opportunities in performing arts or arts administration as well as for non-profit organizations or groups that propose performing arts productions or activities which involve and benefit high school or college students.
Completed forms and all attachments must be submitted to the PASA office by March 1, 2008 to qualify for the 2007/2008 scholarships. To request scholarship guidelines and an application, call PASA at (337)237-2787. Applications and eligibility requirements can also be found online at www.pasaonline.org
The L. Hill Bonin, Jr. Memorial Scholarship Fund was created to award talented and deserving students of the performing arts with funds for enhancing their talents through participation in advanced study or classes beyond those available in their present study programs. Now awards may benefit groups that provide opportunities to students for enhancing their performing arts talents.
To be considered for an award, students must be enrolled in any high school or college in the parishes served by PASA, be planning to pursue a career or professional training in performing arts or arts administration, be a citizen of the United States and a Louisiana resident, and have an overall grade point average of B or higher on their high school or college transcript. For a non-profit organization or group to be eligible it must propose a production, performance, or activity that involves high school or college students and ensure that the funds will be used for the enhancement of the talents of the students in the performance.
Recipients are chosen by the PASA Bonin Scholarship committee, composed of PASA board members and a representative of the Bonin family. Recipients, after meeting eligibility criteria, are chosen on the basis of the artistic merit of the proposed training or project, planning and design of the proposal, and appropriate request and plans for the use of the funds.
Last year's the Bonin scholarship awarded three recpients including one U.L. student and two 2007 high school graduates. Matthew Couvillon, a student at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, spent most of the summer at Jacob's Pillow, home of America's longest-running dance festival and a hotbed of choreographic learning and dance. William Moody IV of Lafayette High School and Alexandra Pitre, of Opelousas Catholic High School were the two outstanding high school students selected by the committee. Moody attended "Encore! Ensemble Theatre Workshop in Varbone, France where he studied different acting disciplines. Pitre used her scholarship to attend the prestigious Martha Graham Summer intensive in New York City and the Garth Fagan Summer Movement Institute in Rochester, New York.
Guidelines for the L. Hill Bonin, Jr. Memorial Scholarship Award, administered by Performing Arts Society of Acadiana (PASA), are available for high school and college students pursuing short-time educational and training opportunities in performing arts or arts administration as well as for non-profit organizations or groups that propose performing arts productions or activities which involve and benefit high school or college students.
Completed forms and all attachments must be submitted to the PASA office by March 1, 2008 to qualify for the 2007/2008 scholarships. To request scholarship guidelines and an application, call PASA at (337)237-2787. Applications and eligibility requirements can also be found online at www.pasaonline.org
The L. Hill Bonin, Jr. Memorial Scholarship Fund was created to award talented and deserving students of the performing arts with funds for enhancing their talents through participation in advanced study or classes beyond those available in their present study programs. Now awards may benefit groups that provide opportunities to students for enhancing their performing arts talents.
To be considered for an award, students must be enrolled in any high school or college in the parishes served by PASA, be planning to pursue a career or professional training in performing arts or arts administration, be a citizen of the United States and a Louisiana resident, and have an overall grade point average of B or higher on their high school or college transcript. For a non-profit organization or group to be eligible it must propose a production, performance, or activity that involves high school or college students and ensure that the funds will be used for the enhancement of the talents of the students in the performance.
Recipients are chosen by the PASA Bonin Scholarship committee, composed of PASA board members and a representative of the Bonin family. Recipients, after meeting eligibility criteria, are chosen on the basis of the artistic merit of the proposed training or project, planning and design of the proposal, and appropriate request and plans for the use of the funds.
Last year's the Bonin scholarship awarded three recpients including one U.L. student and two 2007 high school graduates. Matthew Couvillon, a student at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, spent most of the summer at Jacob's Pillow, home of America's longest-running dance festival and a hotbed of choreographic learning and dance. William Moody IV of Lafayette High School and Alexandra Pitre, of Opelousas Catholic High School were the two outstanding high school students selected by the committee. Moody attended "Encore! Ensemble Theatre Workshop in Varbone, France where he studied different acting disciplines. Pitre used her scholarship to attend the prestigious Martha Graham Summer intensive in New York City and the Garth Fagan Summer Movement Institute in Rochester, New York.
Theatre--Review
Ray Blum reviews the Omni Artiste production of A Woman's Journeyin the February 15th edition of the Daily Advertiser.
Tuesday, February 12, 2008
Monday, February 11, 2008
Theatre--Auditions (2nd Post)
Open auditions will be held Wednesday, February 13th at 7 pm and Thursday, February 14th at 6pm at Cité des Arts for an original play by John Patrick Bray. Trickster At The Gate, presented by PASA, is part of The Renaissance of Zora, their spring celebration of the life and work of Zora Neale Hurston.
Directed by Maureen Brennan, the play will be presented at Cité des Arts on April 17 – 26, 2008 and included as a part of Festival International de Louisiane.
Brennan is looking for four actors, two male and two female, of varying ages for this tale which is drawn from African folk traditions and set here in Southwest Louisiana. For further information call Maureen Brennan at (337) 291-1122.
Directed by Maureen Brennan, the play will be presented at Cité des Arts on April 17 – 26, 2008 and included as a part of Festival International de Louisiane.
Brennan is looking for four actors, two male and two female, of varying ages for this tale which is drawn from African folk traditions and set here in Southwest Louisiana. For further information call Maureen Brennan at (337) 291-1122.
Sunday, February 10, 2008
Theatre--Audition
IPAL will be holding auditions for their next play, Moon Over Buffalo, on February 17th from 3 pm to 5 pm and again on February 18th from 5:30 pm to 7 pm at the old Essenee Theatre on Iberia Street in New Iberia.
Moon over Buffalo marked Carol Burnett’s triumphant return to Broadway after 30 years (for which she received a Tony Award nomination). It also starred Philip Bosco and Randy Graff. Subsequent Broadway casts included Lynn Redgrave and Robert Goulet. Moon Over Buffalo later opened at London’s legendary Old Vic starring Joan Collins and Frank Langella, under the title Over the Moon. It was directed on Broadway by Tom Moore, and in London by Ray Cooney.
In the madcap comedy tradition of Lend me a Tenor, the hilarious Moon Over Buffalo centers on George and Charlotte Hay, fading stars of the 1950's. At the moment, they’re playing Private Lives and Cyrano De Bergerac in rep in Buffalo, New York with 5 actors. On the brink of a disastrous split-up caused by George’s dalliance with a young ingénue, they receive word that they might just have one last shot at stardom: Frank Capra is coming to town to see their matinee, and if likes what he sees, he might cast them in his movie remake of The Scarlet Pimpernel. Unfortunately for George and Charlotte, everything that could go wrong does go wrong, abetted by a visit from their daughter’s clueless fiancé and hilarious uncertainty about which play they’re actually performing, caused by Charlotte’s deaf old stage-manager mother who hates every bone in George’s body.
For 4 men and 4 women. For more information, call IPAL at (337) 364-6114.
Moon over Buffalo marked Carol Burnett’s triumphant return to Broadway after 30 years (for which she received a Tony Award nomination). It also starred Philip Bosco and Randy Graff. Subsequent Broadway casts included Lynn Redgrave and Robert Goulet. Moon Over Buffalo later opened at London’s legendary Old Vic starring Joan Collins and Frank Langella, under the title Over the Moon. It was directed on Broadway by Tom Moore, and in London by Ray Cooney.
In the madcap comedy tradition of Lend me a Tenor, the hilarious Moon Over Buffalo centers on George and Charlotte Hay, fading stars of the 1950's. At the moment, they’re playing Private Lives and Cyrano De Bergerac in rep in Buffalo, New York with 5 actors. On the brink of a disastrous split-up caused by George’s dalliance with a young ingénue, they receive word that they might just have one last shot at stardom: Frank Capra is coming to town to see their matinee, and if likes what he sees, he might cast them in his movie remake of The Scarlet Pimpernel. Unfortunately for George and Charlotte, everything that could go wrong does go wrong, abetted by a visit from their daughter’s clueless fiancé and hilarious uncertainty about which play they’re actually performing, caused by Charlotte’s deaf old stage-manager mother who hates every bone in George’s body.
For 4 men and 4 women. For more information, call IPAL at (337) 364-6114.
Dance--Performance
The hottest young Tango company from Buenos Aires arrives at the Heymann Performing Arts Center heating up the stage with the fire and passion of South America. Featuring ten torrid dancers accompanied by a quartet of brilliant young musicians and one of Argentina's finest singers, TANGO FIRE offers a journey through the history of Tango, the world's most alluring and exciting dance.
Heymann Performing Arts Center
Lafayette, LA
February 10, 2008 5 pm
Heymann Performing Arts Center
Lafayette, LA
February 10, 2008 5 pm
Friday, February 8, 2008
Theatre--Performance: Season Schedule
CITÉ DES ARTS ANNOUNCES THEIR 2008 THEATRE SEASON
First off, we would like to announce the return of Duncan Thistlethwaite as the Artistic Director at Cité. Many of you know Duncan and have worked with him in the past.
February 21 – March 8 (Thursday – Saturday): DRIVING MISS DAISY, starring Jenny Felder, A.D. Dugar and Duncan Thistlethwaite. DRIVING MISS DAISYis a 1987 play by Alfred Uhry about the relationship that an elderly Southern Jewish lady shares with her African-American chauffeur, Hoke Colburn, over the span of several decades.
May 22 – June 7 (Thursday – Saturday): PROOF is a play by David Auburn. It won the 2001 Pulitzer Prize for Drama and the 2001 Tony Award for Best Play. The story concerns Catherine, the daughter of Robert, a recently deceased mathematical genius and professor at the University of Chicago, and her struggle with mathematical genius and mental illness. Catherine had cared for her father through a lengthy mental illness. Upon Robert's death, his ex-graduate student Hal discovers a paradigm-shifting proof about prime numbers in Robert's office. The title refers both to that proof and to the play's central question: Can Catherine prove the proof's authorship? Along with proving the proof, the daughter also finds herself in a relationship with 28-year-old Hal. Throughout, the play explores Catherine's fear of following in her father's footsteps, both mathematically and mentally.
September 4 – 20 (Thursday – Saturday): GREEZY SPOON
GREEZY SPOON is an original play written by local playwright, historian and musician, Austin Sonnier, Jr. This piece is a comedy set at the “Greezy Spoon”, a local diner and funeral parlor and introduces us to the characters that pass through those doors.
September/October
Beginning the end of September and alternating with Discoprodutions production of THE ROCKY HORROR SHOW, through Halloween,Cité presents HEDWIG AND THE ANGRY INCH, a rock musical about a fictional rock and roll band fronted by an East German transgender singer. The text is by John Cameron Mitchell, and the music and lyrics are by Stephen Trask. The musical has been performed throughout the world in hundreds of stage productions and has slowly gathered a devoted cult following similar to that of THE ROCKY HORROR SHOW.
First off, we would like to announce the return of Duncan Thistlethwaite as the Artistic Director at Cité. Many of you know Duncan and have worked with him in the past.
February 21 – March 8 (Thursday – Saturday): DRIVING MISS DAISY, starring Jenny Felder, A.D. Dugar and Duncan Thistlethwaite. DRIVING MISS DAISYis a 1987 play by Alfred Uhry about the relationship that an elderly Southern Jewish lady shares with her African-American chauffeur, Hoke Colburn, over the span of several decades.
May 22 – June 7 (Thursday – Saturday): PROOF is a play by David Auburn. It won the 2001 Pulitzer Prize for Drama and the 2001 Tony Award for Best Play. The story concerns Catherine, the daughter of Robert, a recently deceased mathematical genius and professor at the University of Chicago, and her struggle with mathematical genius and mental illness. Catherine had cared for her father through a lengthy mental illness. Upon Robert's death, his ex-graduate student Hal discovers a paradigm-shifting proof about prime numbers in Robert's office. The title refers both to that proof and to the play's central question: Can Catherine prove the proof's authorship? Along with proving the proof, the daughter also finds herself in a relationship with 28-year-old Hal. Throughout, the play explores Catherine's fear of following in her father's footsteps, both mathematically and mentally.
September 4 – 20 (Thursday – Saturday): GREEZY SPOON
GREEZY SPOON is an original play written by local playwright, historian and musician, Austin Sonnier, Jr. This piece is a comedy set at the “Greezy Spoon”, a local diner and funeral parlor and introduces us to the characters that pass through those doors.
September/October
Beginning the end of September and alternating with Discoprodutions production of THE ROCKY HORROR SHOW, through Halloween,Cité presents HEDWIG AND THE ANGRY INCH, a rock musical about a fictional rock and roll band fronted by an East German transgender singer. The text is by John Cameron Mitchell, and the music and lyrics are by Stephen Trask. The musical has been performed throughout the world in hundreds of stage productions and has slowly gathered a devoted cult following similar to that of THE ROCKY HORROR SHOW.
Theatre--Performance: Season Schedule
The Opelousas Little Theatre
Presents
2008 Season of Shows
You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown
Opens April 3
A wonderful musical tale of a classic comic we all know and love.
Proof
Opens June 12
The play concerns Catherine, the daughter of Robert, a recently deceased mathematical genius and professor at the University of Chicago, and her struggle with mathematical genius and mental illness. Catherine had cared for her father through a lengthy mental illness. Can Catherine prove the proof's authorship?
Wit
Opens August 7
Wit is a play by Margaret Edison about a University Professor of English who is dying of ovarian cancer. As she copes with her life-threatening cancer she assesses her own life through the intricacies of the English language, especially the use of wit and the metaphysical poetry of John Donne.
Of Mice and Men
Opens November 6
Whether you read it in school, saw the movie in black and white, or viewed it most recently with Gary Sinese and John Malckovich, this classic will bring your mind back to human kindness.
Season tickets are available for $40; this includes admission into five productions. Individual tickets are $10.00 and are available at:
Sebastien~Dupre Fine Jewellery
822 South Main Street
Opelousas, LA 70570
337-948-4367
For production information call Dana Reed at (337) 948-3284.
Presents
2008 Season of Shows
You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown
Opens April 3
A wonderful musical tale of a classic comic we all know and love.
Proof
Opens June 12
The play concerns Catherine, the daughter of Robert, a recently deceased mathematical genius and professor at the University of Chicago, and her struggle with mathematical genius and mental illness. Catherine had cared for her father through a lengthy mental illness. Can Catherine prove the proof's authorship?
Wit
Opens August 7
Wit is a play by Margaret Edison about a University Professor of English who is dying of ovarian cancer. As she copes with her life-threatening cancer she assesses her own life through the intricacies of the English language, especially the use of wit and the metaphysical poetry of John Donne.
Of Mice and Men
Opens November 6
Whether you read it in school, saw the movie in black and white, or viewed it most recently with Gary Sinese and John Malckovich, this classic will bring your mind back to human kindness.
Season tickets are available for $40; this includes admission into five productions. Individual tickets are $10.00 and are available at:
Sebastien~Dupre Fine Jewellery
822 South Main Street
Opelousas, LA 70570
337-948-4367
For production information call Dana Reed at (337) 948-3284.
Theatre--Article
Ray Blum, in his "Perform" column for the Daily Advertiser's February 8th edition, talks about one of the major figures in Acadiana community (and now UL-Lafayette) theatre, director Walter Brown.
Thursday, February 7, 2008
Theatre--Article
The Times of Acadiana is running an article in its February 6th edition about the preview in New York of Acadiana playwright Cody Daigle's original work, Providence.
Theatre--Audition
Open auditions will be held Wednesday, February 13th at 7 pm and Thursday, February 14th at 6pm at Cité des Arts for an original play by John Patrick Bray. Trickster At The Gate, presented by PASA, is part of The Renaissance of Zora, their spring celebration of the life and work of Zora Neale Hurston.
Directed by Maureen Brennan, the play will be presented at Cité des Arts on April 17 – 26, 2008 and included as a part of Festival International de Louisiane.
Brennan is looking for four actors, two male and two female, of varying ages for this tale which is drawn from African folk traditions and set here in Southwest Louisiana. For further information call Maureen Brennan at (337) 291-1122.
Directed by Maureen Brennan, the play will be presented at Cité des Arts on April 17 – 26, 2008 and included as a part of Festival International de Louisiane.
Brennan is looking for four actors, two male and two female, of varying ages for this tale which is drawn from African folk traditions and set here in Southwest Louisiana. For further information call Maureen Brennan at (337) 291-1122.
Theatre--Performance
Omni Artiste Productions opens its Spring 2008 season with a trilogy of one-act plays entitled A Woman's Journey. These stories depict women at various stages through their personal life journeys.
The one-act plays being presented are Colorless, A Mother's Faith and The Female Being. Colorless was named the winner of “Best Play” and “Best Production” at the 2007 Hub City Theatre Festival. A Mother's Faith describes the journey of a mother who loses her faith in God when her daughter battles a deadly disease and the final play, The Female Being , gives insight into different women with different backgrounds talking about (what else) being women.
Believing that lives are transformed through theatre, Omni Artiste Productions of Lafayette, under the direction of Dr. Alex C. Marshall, brings a unique vision to the performance of informative, entertaining, and original plays. Omni Artiste Productions believes that theatre inspires individuals toward developing a deeper appreciation of the world in which they live.
WHEN: February 8, 9, 15 and 16 at 7:30pm; February 10 and 17 at 3:00pm
WHERE: Cité des Arts, 109 Vine St., downtown Lafayette between Jefferson St. and Third St.
COST: $15.00 for Adults at the door; $10.00 for Senior Citizens; Students and individuals making reservations ahead of time.
For Reservations and additional information, please contact Cité at
337-291-1122.
The one-act plays being presented are Colorless, A Mother's Faith and The Female Being. Colorless was named the winner of “Best Play” and “Best Production” at the 2007 Hub City Theatre Festival. A Mother's Faith describes the journey of a mother who loses her faith in God when her daughter battles a deadly disease and the final play, The Female Being , gives insight into different women with different backgrounds talking about (what else) being women.
Believing that lives are transformed through theatre, Omni Artiste Productions of Lafayette, under the direction of Dr. Alex C. Marshall, brings a unique vision to the performance of informative, entertaining, and original plays. Omni Artiste Productions believes that theatre inspires individuals toward developing a deeper appreciation of the world in which they live.
WHEN: February 8, 9, 15 and 16 at 7:30pm; February 10 and 17 at 3:00pm
WHERE: Cité des Arts, 109 Vine St., downtown Lafayette between Jefferson St. and Third St.
COST: $15.00 for Adults at the door; $10.00 for Senior Citizens; Students and individuals making reservations ahead of time.
For Reservations and additional information, please contact Cité at
337-291-1122.
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