Weekly Update - 9/29/2007

The Broadway Hour is back in full force! We'll be getting some new reviewers in within a few weeks and we're ready for a new season of reviews and radio shows! Don't forget to listen in on Sundays from 10am to Noon at www.seattleu.edu/ksub to The Broadway Hour with Nigel Andrews, Rick Skyler and Jack Jarden!

Here's what's coming up in Seattle for the next few weeks:

Seattle Shakespeare
Tickets and Information
Pericles >October 25 - 18, 2007

Seattle University w/ Strawberry Theater Workshop
Tickets and Information
The Life of Galileo >October 25 - November 18, 2007

Intiman
Tickets and Information
To Kill a Mockingbird >September 28 - November 11, 2007

Seattle Repertory Theatre
Tickets and Information
Twelfth Night >September 13 - October 20, 2007
Murderers >October 4 - November 4, 2007

ACT Theatre
Tickets and Information
The Women >October 5 - November 11, 2007
Late Night Catechism >Through December 30, 2007
Andrea Sings Astaire >September 21 - October 7, 2007
One Night Stand with Cancer >October 11 - November 11, 2007

Seattle Opera
Tickets and Information
Iphigenia in Tauris >October 13 - 27, 2007

The Paramount w/ Broadway Across America
Tickets and Information
Spamalot >October 10 - 28, 2007

The 5th Avenue Theatre
Tickets and Information
Lone Star Love >through September 30, 2007
Into the Woods >October 19 - November 10, 2007

A powerful story of faith laced with magic and wonder

Pericles

October 25-November 18, 2007

By William Shakespeare

Directed by Sheila Daniels

SEATTLE – Seattle Shakespeare Company launches its new season with William Shakespeare’s adventurous tale of a seafaring prince, Pericles. Directed by Sheila Daniels, Pericles opens on Friday, October 26 and runs through November 18 (low-priced preview on October 25) at the Center House Theatre at Seattle Center .

Support for Seattle Shakespeare Company’s production of Pericles is provided by PONCHO, 4 Culture, Starbuck’s Doubleshot, the Washington State Arts Commission and 94.9 KUOW.

Pericles is an epic journey of sheer theatricality. After discovering the dark truth behind a king’s riddle for the hand of his daughter, Prince Pericles flees for his life to distant exotic lands. On his quest he encounters a murder plot, a narrow escape, a tournament for the hand of a princess, a shipwreck, a marriage…and that’s just the first half. Encountering love, loss, and adventure, Pericles uses honor as his compass to guide him towards a joyous family reunion.

“I’ve been fascinated with Pericles since the first time I read it in high school,” said director Sheila Daniels. “It combines the classic “Hero’s Journey” with the trials of Job. Although he has done nothing but try to tell the truth, Pericles finds himself challenged and pursued at every turn. It is only after the death of his beloved wife and the loss of his daughter, does Pericles stop running from the world. It is then that the world turns and opens up to him.”

The cast of Pericles features Alycia Delmore (Thaisa), Kate Czajkowski (Marina), Reginald Andre Jackson (Pericles), Peter Dylan O'Connor (Lysimachus/Thaliard/Fisherman), Philip Davidson (Gower/Cerimon), Alban Dennis (Cleon/Fisherman), Todd Jefferson Moore (Antiochus/Simonides), Stephanie Shine (Dionyza), James Cowan (Helicanus/Boult), Annie Lareau (Bawd), Rob Jansen (Leonine/Fisherman), and Molly Tomhave (Antiochus' Daughter/Lychorida).

Set design for Pericles is by L.B. Morse, with costume design by Heidi Ganser , lighting design by Tim Wratten, and sound design and original music by Gretta Harley.

Performances of Pericles are Thursdays through Saturdays at 7:30 pm; Saturdays at 2:00 pm (November 3 & 10) and Sundays at 2:00 pm.

Special “Shakespeariences” will be offered in conjunction with Pericles including: “Jumpstart into Pericles” a facilitated introduction to the play (Nov 1 at 6PM - $10) and an Oxfordian POV discussion (Nov 3 at 1:00PM).

Tickets to performances of Pericles are now on sale and range from $30-$34 for adults, $24-$28 for seniors and $20-$24 for students. Pay-What-You-Will previews are on October 23 and 24 at 7:30 PM. Discounted tickets are available for groups of ten or more.

For ticket reservations, call the Seattle Shakespeare Company box office (206) 733-8222 or go online at www.seattleshakespeare.org. Regular box office hours are Tuesday through Friday 1:00-6:00 PM. During performance weeks, in addition to regular hours, the box office opens one hour prior to curtain. Seattle Shakespeare Company performs at the Center House Theatre at Seattle Center .

The 5th Avenue Theatre Campaigns

For New Rehearsal and Education Center

Half-Way to $4 Million Fundraising Goal for “Downstairs at The 5th”

SEATTLE – The 5th Avenue Theatre’s newest endeavor to build its own rehearsal space and education center is half-way to meeting its $4 million fundraising goal, thanks to the support of Sheryl and Peter Neupert, who recently donated $1.2 million to the “Downstairs at The 5th” capital campaign, as well as gifts of $300,000 from Ken and Marleen Alhadeff, Executive Producing Partner of The 5th, $100,000 from Tom and Connie Walsh, and $75,000 from Microsoft.

Built in the 1920s as a vaudeville house, The 5th Avenue lacks virtually all of the backstage trappings of more modern musical theater venues. Currently, The 5th Avenue does not have a rehearsal space on site. It must rent space from Theater Puget Sound in the Seattle Center House to rehearse and stage its local productions, including last season favorites West Side Story, White Christmas, Buddy: The Buddy Holly Story and the upcoming production of Stephen Sondheim’s Into the Woods.

The 5th Avenue Theatre’s Board of Directors has authorized planning for a new area to consolidate all production-related backstage activities. This new space will be known as “Downstairs at The 5th” and will include a full-sized rehearsal hall, education center, and space for the construction and storage of scenery, props, costumes, lighting and sound equipment. It will be located below the Theatre’s mainstage and auditorium in the Skinner building concourse, recently vacated by Eddie Bauer.

“This is an amazing step for The 5th Avenue Theatre to streamline production,” says Norm Rice, newly appointed Chairman of the 5th Avenue ’s Board of Directors. “We are proud to introduce this campaign to the community and to invite participation by our subscribers and patrons. It will take all of us supporting this campaign to ensure its success.”

“We are honored to be a part of The 5th Avenue Theatre,” Sheryl and Peter Neupert say. “The Theatre is a magnificent piece of art in itself, and the magic they create each night is something we want people to experience for a long time. The 5th Avenue is a non-profit and requires support from the community to thrive – we are hoping others will step up to support The 5th as well.”

The 5th Avenue Theatre is Seattle ’s premier musical theater. In 1980, the non-profit 5th Avenue Theatre began producing and presenting top-quality live musical theater for the cultural enrichment of the Northwest community. The 5th Avenue Theatre maintains a subscription audience of more than 24,000 and an annual attendance of over 225,000. It ranks among the nation’s largest and most respected musical theater companies. The Theatre is committed to encouraging the next generation of theatergoers through its Educational Outreach Program which includes: The Adventure Musical Theatre Touring Company, The 5th Avenue High School Musical Theatre Awards, the Student Matinee Program, First Friday Workshops, and Spotlight Nights. Unique in its Chinese-inspired design, the exquisite theater opened in 1926 as a venue for vaudeville and film. Today, under the leadership of Managing Director Marilynn Sheldon and Producing Artistic Director David Armstrong, The 5th Avenue Theatre continues to achieve the highest standards in all aspects of artistic endeavors and facility operations, while preserving its artistic, architectural and historic legacy. Visit www.5thavenue.org.

Lone Star Love Cancels Broadway Engagement This Fall

SEATTLE - The production of LONE STAR LOVE, currently playing an engagement at Seattle ’s 5th Avenue Theatre, has canceled its Broadway engagement this fall. LONE STAR LOVE will continue performances at The 5th Avenue Theatre through September 30 as scheduled, for a total of 11 previews and 15 regular performances. The production had been previously announced to open at the Belasco Theatre ( 111 West 44^th Street ) on Monday, December 3. Upcoming plans for the production will be announced when they are available.

INTIMAN ARTISTIC DIRECTOR BARTLETT SHER AND MANAGING DIRECTOR LAURA PENN WILL BE INTERVIEWED AS PART OF INTIMAN’S INTERVIEW SERIES ON MONDAY, OCTOBER 15; TICKETS ARE ON SALE NOW

SEATTLE— Intiman Theatre continues its 35^th anniversary celebration with two special guests at its interview series on Monday, October 15 at 7 pm: Artistic Director Bartlett Sher and Managing Director Laura Penn .

Interviewed by Communications Director Stephanie Coen, Sher and Penn will discuss their backgrounds, the unexpected twists of their career paths and their passions. Audiences will be able to learn about how they work together and how the decisions are made that bring Seattle the great work and free public programs for which Intiman has been honored.

Tickets for the program are $10 and can be purchased at www.intiman.org or by phone at 206.269.1900. A reception will follow the conversation.

Bartlett Sher, Intiman’s artistic director since 2000, received Tony nominations for his direction of Awake and Sing! and The Light in the Piazza, both for Lincoln Center Theater. In 2006, he staged The Barber of Seville for the Metropolitan Opera. His Intiman credits include the world premieres of Prayer for My Enemy, Singing Forest and Nickel and Dimed, and classics by Shakespeare, Chekhov, Wilder, Goldoni and others. His 2002 production of Cymbeline, produced by Theatre for a New Audience, was the first American Shakespeare production at the Royal Shakespeare Company and garnered him the Callaway Award. His directing projects in 2008 include the first ever Broadway revival of South Pacific, produced by Lincoln Center Theater, and the opera Roméo et Juliette for the Salzburg Festival.

Laura Penn is in her 14^th season as Intiman’s managing director. Under her leadership Intiman has served as an advocate and catalyst for civic dialogue and community building in the Puget Sound region. Ms. Penn received the "Seattle Distinguished Citizen” Medal from Mayor Paul Schell in 2001. During her tenure, she has guided Intiman to new business models, overseen the establishment of the Intiman Theatre Foundation and completed a remodel of the public spaces at Intiman Playhouse. Ms. Penn currently serves on the Board of Leadership Tomorrow, as a Fellow of the World Affairs Council and an Advisor for the Puget Sound Business Journal Women of Influence honors, on advisory committees for Arts Corps and Freehold Studio/Theatre Lab, and as an NEA site evaluator.

For more information about Intiman, visit www.intiman.org.

INTIMAN THEATRE’S TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD EXTENDS FOR A SECOND TIME

Tickets for eight additional performances through November 10 are on sale now

SEATTLE— Intiman Theatre announces that its American Cycle production of Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird, adapted by Christopher Sergel and directed by Fracaswell Hyman, is extending a second time and will play through Saturday, November 10 at 8 pm.

To Kill a Mockingbird was originally scheduled to close on October 28 and extended to November 3 before performances even began. Due to continued audience demand, an additional eight shows have been added, extending the production through November 10.

The second extension will include three student matinees, bringing the total during the run to 13 student matinee performances, all of which include a facilitated post-play discussion and an educational study guide.

Added performances now on sale to the public are Wednesday, November 7 at 7:30 pm; Thursday, November 8 at 7:30 pm; Friday, November 9 at 8 pm; and Saturday, November 10 at 2 pm and 8 pm. The production must close on November 10.

Tickets, ranging in price from $27 to $50, may be purchased from www.intiman.org or 206.269.1900. Discounts are available for patrons under age 25 and seniors, pending availability on the day of performance. Intiman performs at the Intiman Playhouse, 201 Mercer Street at Seattle Center .

The American Cycle is sponsored in part by WaMu, The Andrew W. Mellon Foundation, PONCHO, The Boeing Company, Metropolitan King County Council, Microsoft Corporation, Nesholm Family Foundation and Ameriprise Financial.

Intiman Theatre gratefully acknowledges the following for their institutional support: The Paul G. Allen Family Foundation, Ameriprise Financial, Norman Archibald Charitable Foundation, ArtsFund, The Boeing Company, Doris Duke Charitable Foundation, Fales Foundation Trust, Humanities Washington, Intiman Theatre Foundation, Kreielsheimer Remainder Trust, The Andrew W. Mellon Foundation, Microsoft Corporation, Nesholm Family Foundation, The Norcliffe Foundation, PONCHO, Pride Foundation, The Shubert Foundation, The Seattle Foundation, Theatre Communications Group, U.S. Bancorp Foundation, WaMu and Wells Fargo Bank. Additional funding is received from Office of Arts & Cultural Affairs, City of Seattle ; 4Culture; Metropolitan King County Council and Washington State Arts Commission.

To Kill a Mockingbird - Intiman

To Kill a Mockingbird

Intiman

September 14 - Octoer 28, 2007

Tickets and Information

One of the most well known pieces of literary fiction known by most middle school students in the country comes to life at the Intiman under Christopher Sergel's adaptation and Fracaswell Hyman's direction. Harper Lee's To Kill a Mockingbird, though a very narative-driven story originally, translates very well to stage.

Patti Coheour playing Maudie Atkinson, the narrator of the story, carried a huge load on her shoulders, speaking the voice of Harper Lee. Her presence was never overbearing, but exactly precise and fitting with the action on stage. Meanwhile, Josephine Howell playing Calpurnia does a phenominal job countering to the more extreme end. Her vocal performance and her total comitment to her character draw the audience in faster than anything else. David Bishins as Atticus Finch holds up his end extremely well. Such a difficult and well-known role brings a lot of pressure onto the performer and Bishins carries himself with passion and presence beyond the call of duty.

Alec Hammond's set design is the most prominent and captivating aspect of the show. With bloody chairs hanging from nooses in the ceiling and a tree dripping with blood surrounded by twisted houses. Above this is Greg Sullivan's lighting design encapsulates the essence of the play extremely well. A certain standout is the finale sequence when the lights become most of the show itself.

Overall, this show provies for the audience very well. While rather slow and seeming to plod along at some points, the show is very well put-together and very entertaining. It brings Harper Lee's story to a modern audience as well as anything could.

Review by Nigel Andrews

Lone Star Love - The 5th Avenue Theatre

Lone Star Love
The 5^th Avenue Theatre
September 8 – 30, 2007
Tickets and Information

William Shakespeare’s accidental play, The Merry Wives of Windsor, has found itself set to music all around Seattle over this past year. Last March the Seattle Opera’s Young Artist Program presented Falstaff by Giuseppe Verdi and now the 5^th Avenue Theatre brings Seattle Lone Star Love.

In this new production – premiering here in Seattle before moving straight to Broadway – the tagline at the end of the first act sums up the mood of the play quite well: “It’s not done until it’s overdone.” Lone Star Love is a cheesy, fun show that plays strongly for the cheap laughs and easy cracks. There are only so many singing cowboy jokes that can carry a show for almost three hours and this one uses them all. However, while the cowboy cracks get somewhat tired, the music carries this show well on its way. Jack Herrick’s music and lyrics (and performance as Pistol) are smooth, catchy and exceptionally fun. The music encompasses the down-home feel of post-civil war country tunes while staying true to every Broadway convention possible.

Dee Hoty, Randy Quaid and Lauren Kennedy. Photo by Michael Powers

Randy Quaid delivers a fabulous performance as the most loveable character from the Renaissance and today – Falstaff. While much more fit than his character ought be, Quaid holds himself very well and has a presence on stage that pulls the audience in immediately. Robert Cuccioli (Frank Ford) also provides a great show. After premiering Jekyll & Hyde in 1997 as the title characters, Cuccioli has done well in coming on board for Lone Star Love. He brings a fabulous fire to this performance. Ramona Keller (Mistress Quickly), however, steals the show every time a note soars from her lips. Her powerhouse performance brings down the house perfectly and brings a perfect grounding to the otherwise rather over the top show.

While many of the aspects to this show fall flat or are overdone to an extreme level, the performers on stage – especially the musicians playing Bardolph, Pistol and Nym (Chris Frank, Jack Herrick and Emily Mikesell) – and the overwhelming fun of the show give the audience everything they need from a Western Shakespearian Broadway Musical.

Twelfe Night

Twelfe Night
The Seattle Repertory Theatre
September 13th - October 20th
Tickets and Information

That would be Twelfe Night with an “F”. This spelling is taken from the First Folio Edition of Shakespeare’s works due to the fact that “In Queen Elizabeth I’s time, there were no hard and fast rules for spelling…” This modification on the better-known spelling is just the first unique styling choice that was utilized in the Seattle Rep’s production. The classic work is transplanted into a modern style world where the actors take on modern day archetypes, sport fashionable costumes and travel through a simple set that keeps its weary shipwrecked look throughout the entire production. All these design elements (set: Michael Pavelka, Costume: Frances Kenny, Lighting: Scott Zielinski) combine to create an intriguing world that may at times seem disjointed yet always excite the interest of the eye.

From underwater simulations and minimal sets to dynamic costumes and lights, the designers create a world that catches the audience at every turn. The set brings in an interesting use of depth and perspective while the lights help to transition the focus from soliloquy to fight and day to night. With so many ideas working the stage, elements sometimes clash, possibly confusing audience members as they watch the characters interact with their surroundings. This does not, however, distract the audience from the moments of hilarity that dance across the stage throwing the onlookers into fitful laughter. At the basis of the show is a root in slapstick comedy, which clearly keeps not only the audience but also the actors on their toes.

Photo Credit: Chris Bennion

The many energetic familiar faces from around Seattle fuel the energy and fervor of the humor that drives this show. These actors present high energy and flexible comedic timing that pull the viewers into their world. Each actor creates a fabulously unique character that finds many ways to work in the outrageous costumes and dynamic set. There did seem to be some easing into the roles, but once comfortable they gave fantastic performances. This long list of well-known local talent along with the humor and excitement to match creates a show that is an enjoyable experience for all theatergoers. Catch Twelfe Night at The Seattle Repertory Theatre thru October 20th.

Review By: Rick Skyler

Sweet, the Breath of Children - 12 Ave Drama at Odd Duck Studio

Sweet, the Breath of Children
Odd Duck Studio
September 13 – 29, 2007
Tickets and Information

A lighthearted play Sweet, the Breath of Children is not. An intense and visceral play it is. Written by premiering playwright Neil Ferron, Sweet is a punch in the stomach that somehow makes you want more.

A twisted and abusive home for thirteen-year-old Maeve (Melissa Fenwick) and eight-year-old Maggie (Molly Tomhave) is suddenly invaded by a third party, Stephen (Bill Badgely), who seems to be a bit too uncomfortable in his own skin to be able to handle the situation he discovers. Meanwhile ‘the help,’ Ruta (Samantha Underwood) seems to be full of anything but her title. After an hour of perplexed fascination with the world of the play, the second act welcomes Ophelia’s gravediggers – the two movers (Andrew Farjo and Joe Feeney). Beyond that, you’ll have to see the play to learn more.

Directed by Suzannah Rogan, Sweet, the Breath of Children is the premier show for 12Ave Drama – a new theater group in town. After seeing Rogan’s work with Sweet and Ferron’s playwriting skill, this group deserves a lot of recognition. The cast and show as a whole have no weak points. There are no details that were overlooked by the creative and production teams. This show is definitely worth seeing – but it ends quickly, so get your tickets now on www.brownpapertickets.com.

Fiddler on the Roof - Seattle Musical Theater

Fiddler on the Roof
Seattle Musical Theater at Magnuson Park
September 14 - 30, 2007

If it’s a traditional show you’re looking for, Fiddler on the Roof at Seattle Musical Theater is what you want. This production holds true to all of the conventions of the show while freshening the style and attitude of the show. Theresa Thuman’s direction of the show doesn’t go too far with changing the ‘traditions’ of the show, but also allows the actors to play to their individual skills and advantages to get the cast to shine as brightly as they can.

Eric Hartley’s performance as Tevye is incredible. His subtlety and his power on stage captivate the audience in a way that not many people can. His stage presence is a spotlight in and of itself. Also, playing Hodel, Megan Carver blows the audience away with her vocal prowess. Providing a surprising amount of power and beauty, she awes the ears of the crowd. The cast as a whole is extremely tight – their connection between each person is visible and nearly palpable. There is no question about who connects well with whom.

Bryan Boyd’s set design utilizes the subtlety of the simplistic while being more functional than most shows available to a Seattle audience. Relying on practicality, each set piece is used for every scene and nothing is superfluous. This allows those experiencing the play to be immersed in the action of the play, not overwhelmed by an overzealous set.

Overall, this show is extremely fun. While a bit more slowly paced than most productions of Fiddler are, the show works very well in the intimate space and provides a great time for the audience. Don’t let the show go by without seeing it. To not see Fiddler on the Roof would just be ‘untraditional.'

GREAT DEAL AT THE REP!

Twelfe Night, or What You Will

Pay What You Can Night

Monday, September 17, 2007

Seattle, WA - Seattle Repertory Theatre presents Twelfe Night, or What You Will Pay-What-You-Can performance on Monday night, September 17, 2007 at 7:30pm.

Details: Tickets will go on sale at noon on Monday, September 17, in person at the box office (155 Mercer St). Minimum ticket purchase is $1 per ticket, limit 4 tickets per person.

For more information please call the box office at 206-443-2222

Seattle Repertory Theatre presents: Murderers

by Jeffrey Hatcher Directed by Steven Dietz

October 4 - November 4, 2007 (Opening Night: Wednesday, October 10)

Seattle, WA - Join Seattle Repertory Theatre as they look at the wickedly funny minds of three murderers with Jeffrey Hatcher's comedy Murderers, directed by Seattle director Steven Dietz. Murderers plays in the Leo K. Theatre from October 4 through November 4. Previews begin October 4, with opening night set for October 10. Tickets are available through the Seattle Repertory Theatre box office seven days a week at (206) 443-2222, toll-free at (877) 900-9285, as well as online at www.seattlerep.org. Gerald, Lucy and Minka have all been very naughty! In fact, they are murderers. They also happen to be residents of Riddle Key Retirement Community in Florida. That these disparate characters committed murder is not in question, but as for why...well, that is left up to the slightly twisted imagination of playwright Jeffrey Hatcher (best known to Seattle audiences for his adaptation of Tuesdays with Morrie). Hatcher's keen and offbeat sense of the ridiculous thrives among the cul de sacs, manicured lawns and electric golf carts of Florida. You may or may not be a murderer yourself, but everyone will ultimately be charmed by this glorious evening of crime. Directed by veteran Seattle director and playwright Steven Dietz (award winning playwright of Lonely Planet and Private Eyes), Murderers showcases the best in Seattle acting with Sarah Rudinoff as Minka and Mark Anders as Gerald, and national talent Joan Porter Hollander as Lucy. Performance Details: Performances of Murderers are at 7:30 p.m., Tuesday through Sunday with 2:00 p.m. matinees on Saturday and Sundays. There will be no performance on Thursday, October 11. Post-play discussions will be held after performances on Sunday, October 21 at 2:00 p.m., Thursday, October 25 at 7:30 p.m., and Sunday, October 28 at 2:00 p.m. There is an audio-described performance on Saturday, October 27 at 2:00 p.m. and an American Sign Language (ASL)-interpreted performance on Sunday, October 28 at 2:00 p.m.

Seattle Journeys Into The Woods This October

5th Avenue Mounts Seattle ’s Professional Premiere

of Sondheim’s Tony Award-Winning Fractured Fairy Tale

Special Child Ticket Price for this Family-Friendly Musical

Performances: October 19 – November 10, 2007

Opening/Press Night: Thursday, October 25 8:00 p.m.

SEATTLE – Seattleites will step INTO THE WOODS this October as The 5th Avenue Theatre produces the region’s professional premiere of Stephen Sondheim’s most popular musical. The 5th Avenue has cast some of Seattle ’s favorite actors in Sondheim’s Tony Award-winning fractured fairy tale.

Inspired by the timeless tales of the Brothers Grimm, INTO THE WOODS tells the story of a Baker and his Wife who journey into the woods on a quest to lift a witch’s curse. On the way they cross paths with Little Red Riding Hood, Rapunzel, Cinderella and a menagerie of other fairy tale characters. They each pursue individual wishes until their stories become entangled in unexpected ways – revealing what happens after “happily ever after.” Stephen Sondheim’s wickedly witty score weaves a magical spell with such enchanting gems as “Children Will Listen,” “Giants In The Sky” and “No One Is Alone.”

INTO THE WOODS is one of Sondheim’s most family-friendly works, appealing to audiences of all ages. Stephen Sondheim and librettist James Lapine have woven together classic fairy tales in a way that comments on contemporary society. The Daily News describes it as “witty enough to make old stories fresh for adults, lovely enough to enchant youngsters.” The 5th Avenue is encouraging families to attend this show with a special ticket price for children; details below.

In 1988, INTO THE WOODS swept the Tony Awards, winning 10 categories, including Best Musical. Time Magazine described it as “the best show yet from the most creative mind in the musical theater today.” Among the original Broadway cast was Bernadette Peters, who starred as the Witch; her iconic performance in this role was captured in a 1991 PBS Great Performances broadcast recording of the show. The original Broadway production ran for 764 performances, Sondheim’s second-longest running show (behind A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum). It was revived on Broadway in 2002 (starring Vanessa Williams as the Witch) for 279 more performances. Already this year, 800 productions have been mounted around the world. This fall, audiences in Seattle as well as Spain and Paraguay will set out on Sondheim’s delightful journey INTO THE WOODS.

With so many unforgettable characters, INTO THE WOODS is a great showcase for a talented ensemble cast. Featured in this new production are some of Seattle ’s favorite actors. Lisa Estridge (The Buddy Holly Story, Company, Singin’ in the Rain) stars as the Witch, Leslie Law (Sweeney Todd, The Sound of Music) as the Baker’s Wife, Bob De Dea (The Most Happy Fella) as the Baker, Allen Fitzpatrick (Sweeney Todd, B’way: The Sweet Smell of Success, Off-B’way: Jack’s Holiday) as the Narrator, Eric Ankrim (Miss Saigon, Rocky Horror Show) as Jack, Eric Brotherson as Jack’s cow Milky White, Elizabeth Arnold (The Sound Of Music) as Jack’s Mother, Billie Wildrick (Company, Wonderful Town) as Cinderella, Michael Hunsaker (Off-B’way: Listen To My Heart) as the Wolf/Cinderella’s Prince, Cheryl Massey-Peters (My Fair Lady, The Sound of Music) as Cinderella’s Mother/the Giant/Granny, Carol Swarbrick (Sweeney Todd, White Christmas, B’way: Gentlemen Prefer Blondes) as Cinderella’s Stepmother, Krista Severid and Darla Cardwell as Cinderella’s Stepsisters, Allen Galli (West Side Story, Anything Goes) as Cinderella’s Father, Anne Eisendrath as Rapunzel, Logan Benedict as Rapunzel’s Prince, Stephanie Miller as Snow White, Laura Thornquist as Sleeping Beauty, and 10-year-old newcomer Ireland Woods as Little Red Riding Hood.

Director/choreographer Mark Waldrop ( 5th Avenue : Gypsy, B’Way: Bea Arthur, Just Between Friends) leads Seattle into an enchanted world. Conductor/musical director Ian Eisendrath (Company, Sweeney Todd) brings the bewitching score to life, and set designer Todd Edward Ivins keeps the cast on their toes on a revolving set. Lighting designer Tom Sturge creates a mysterious world of light and shadow. Costume coordinator Lynda Salsbury dresses the cast in gowns fit for a princess and a cape “as red as blood,” and hair/make-up designer Mary Pyanowski instantaneously transforms an ugly witch into a beautiful woman.

Families, fairy tale lovers and theater enthusiasts can bring the kids and get a behind-the-scenes look at INTO THE WOODS before it opens at SPOTLIGHT NIGHT on Monday, September 17 from 7 - 8:30 p.m. at The 5th Avenue Theatre. This free event, sponsored by US Bank, will explore how the timeless stories of the Brothers Grimm, Hans Christian Anderson, and Charles Perrault have inspired other writers to adapt and modernize the fairy tales for shows such as INTO THE WOODS, Once Upon A Mattress, and Beauty and the Beast. The 5th Avenue ’s Adventure Musical Theatre Touring Company will perform a selection from Northwest Bookshelf, and members of the creative team of INTO THE WOODS will discuss bringing this delightful and insightful musical comedy to the stage. Visit www.5thavenue.org/spotlight.

The Mojo and the Sayso - ACT Theatre

The Mojo and the Sayso
ACT Theatre
August 31, 2007 – September 30, 2007

Amongst the introspective lighting design and complex costuming, an absurd theatrical event takes place during The Mojo and the Sayso by Aishah Rahman. A Hansberry Project production, this show comes to us from a group of African-American playwrights creating shows dealing with African-American culture in the United States. Their goal is to create long-lasting impressions in their plays that will stay with the theater community for years to come.

The Mojo and the Sayso attempts to produce a metaphor relating to family issues stemming from a recent tragedy that no one is very willing to discuss. Each character finds their own way of coping with it which, unfortunately, clashes with the other characters’ methods. This creates a disjointedness throughout the production that eventually resolves at the conclusion, but leaves the audience relatively unsatisfied.

Jose A. Rufino (Blood), Lindsay Smiling (Acts) and Tracy Michelle Hughes (Awilda) Photo by Chris Bennion

However, the performances and environment surrounding the play were impressive to say the least. With a four-member cast, the show is incredibly tight. All of the actors (Tracy Michelle Hughes, Lindsay Smiling, Jose A. Rufino and Timothy McCuen Piggee) play off of each other extremely well and are obviously very tuned in to each other on stage. Additionally, they are surrounded by some of the most simply clever devices for set and effects that an audience member can experience. The set design by Jennifer Zeyl remains in a stage of physical homeostasis while minimal and yet vital pieces come on and go off augmenting the action on stage. Meanwhile, the lighting designs by Tom Sturge is the key for the audience to somewhat understanding what each scene is intending. The lights pinpoint who the focus is at what time and what level of tension the action has surrounding it. The precision of the lighting comes from great skill and carries a great weight of the show.

While the production is confusing and incongruous at times – the actors, sets and lights guide the audience through and get them to the other side. A very contemplative show, The Mojo and the Sayso deals with some heavy issues without, itself, feeling too heavy. Meanwhile, as a whole production, all the elements come together well and find a happy medium.

Review by Nigel Andrews and Rick Skyler

Site Specific

An interactive theater experience with traveling to boot! Check it all out at the link below!

http://www.seattleu.edu/events/detail.asp?sID=13312

INTIMAN THEATRE ANNOUNCES INITIAL LINEUP OF PLAYS FOR ITS 2008 SEASON; SUBSCRIPTIONS ARE ON SALE NOW
SEATTLE— Artistic Director Bartlett Sher and Managing Director Laura Penn announce the first lineup of plays for Intiman Theatre’s 2008 season. The season will be produced in tandem with special events, numerous free public programs in connection with Intiman’s American Cycle series and other productions, the statewide Living History arts-in-education program and the annual holiday production of Black Nativity. The 2008 season is scheduled to include the following productions:

All the King’s Men, the American Cycle production of Robert Penn Warren’s towering novel about American politics, adapted by Adrian Hall. Produced in the presidential election year, this production concludes Intiman’s five-year series of classic stories and civic dialogue about who we were, who we are and who we might become as Americans.

The Diary of Anne Frank, dramatized by Frances Goodrich and Albert Hackett, one of the most haunting stories we have in our shared human experience.

The Little Dog Laughed, Douglas Carter Beane’s zinger-filled comedy about Hollywood ambition, one of the hits of last year’s New York theater season.

Namaste Man (Lost and Found in Kathmandu), a world premiere written and performed by Andrew Weems, drawing on his childhood experiences growing up in Africa and South Asia to tell a personal story about being an artist and what it means to go home. Intiman will support this work through the Fox Foundation Resident Actor Fellowships, funded by the William & Eva Fox Foundation and administered by Theatre Communications Group.

In addition to these plays, the season will include one additional production to be announced. All plays are subject to change.

Subscription packages, on sale to current subscribers, range from $182 to $252. In addition to the full five-play season, Intiman offers three- and four-play packages and Flex Pass vouchers for the convenience of its patrons. Discount Packages are available for seniors, patrons under 25, groups and educators. Subscriptions will go on sale to the general public on November 1.

Subscribers can renew now by calling 206.269.1900 or visiting www.intiman.org.

Intiman Theatre gratefully acknowledges the following for their institutional support: The Paul G. Allen Family Foundation, Ameriprise Financial, Norman Archibald Charitable Foundation, ArtsFund, The Boeing Company, Doris Duke Charitable Foundation, Fales Foundation Trust, The William Randolph Hearst Foundations, Humanities Washington, Intiman Theatre Foundation, Kreielsheimer Remainder Trust, The Andrew W. Mellon Foundation, Microsoft Corporation, Nesholm Family Foundation, The Norcliffe Foundation, PONCHO, Pride Foundation, The Shubert Foundation, The Seattle Foundation, Theatre Communications Group, U.S. Bancorp Foundation, WaMu and Wells Fargo Bank. Additional funding is received from Office of Arts & Cultural Affairs, City of Seattle ; 4Culture; Metropolitan King County Council and Washington State Arts Commission.



TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD EXTENDS AT INTIMAN THEATRE

American Cycle production extends additional week to meet audience demand, before performances even begin; tickets for new shows through November 3 are on sale now

SEATTLE— Intiman Theatre announces that, due to audience demand and strong ticket sales, its American Cycle production of Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird, adapted by Christopher Sergel and directed by Fracaswell Hyman, will extend beyond its scheduled closing date of October 28 and will now close on Saturday, November 3 at 8 pm.

Performances of To Kill a Mockingbird, the fourth production of Intiman’s five-year American series of classic American stories and civic dialogue, will include additional student matinees during the extension week. Added performances now on sale to the general public are Thursday, November 1 at 7:30 pm, Friday, November 2 at 8 pm and Saturday, November 3 at 2 pm and 8 pm.

Tickets, ranging in price from $27 to $50 with discounts available for students and groups, may be purchased from www.intiman.org or over the phone from the Intiman Ticket Office at 206.269.1900. Intiman performs at the Intiman Playhouse, 201 Mercer Street at Seattle Center .

The American Cycle is sponsored in part by WaMu, The Andrew W. Mellon Foundation, PONCHO, The Boeing Company, Metropolitan King County Council, Microsoft Corporation, Nesholm Family Foundation and Ameriprise Financial.

Intiman Theatre gratefully acknowledges the following for their institutional support: The Paul G. Allen Family Foundation, Ameriprise Financial, Norman Archibald Charitable Foundation, ArtsFund, The Boeing Company, Doris Duke Charitable Foundation, Fales Foundation Trust, The William Randolph Hearst Foundations, Humanities Washington, Intiman Theatre Foundation, Kreielsheimer Remainder Trust, The Andrew W. Mellon Foundation, Microsoft Corporation, Nesholm Family Foundation, The Norcliffe Foundation, PONCHO, Pride Foundation, The Shubert Foundation, The Seattle Foundation, Theatre Communications Group, U.S. Bancorp Foundation, WaMu and Wells Fargo Bank. Additional funding is received from Office of Arts & Cultural Affairs, City of Seattle ; 4Culture; Metropolitan King County Council and Washington State Arts Commission.

For more information, visit www.intiman.org