BroadwayWorld.com Baltimore Stories

The Acme Corporation Stages IF YOU CAN GET TO BUFFALO, Now thru 5/25

Wed, 22 May 2013 10:34:12 PST

The Acme Corporation, Baltimore's newest Station North-based theatre ensemble, will present Trish Harnetiaux's new play, IF YOU CAN GET TO BUFFALO, an exploration of 'A Rape in Cyberspace' by Julian Dibbell, directed by Eric Nightengale at The Great Hall at St. Mark's Lutheran Church, 1900 St. Paul Street, Baltimore, selected days, May 16, 17 @ 8pm, May 18 @ 7pm & 10pm and May 22 - 25 @8pm. Tickets are $10 and are available at the door or at www.theacmecorporation.org.

The world's first social network premiered in 1993 on the newly minted World Wide Web as a virtual mansion comprised entirely of text. It was called LambdaMOO. IF YOU CAN GET TO BUFFALO explores the rise and fall of this new utopia and the attempt of its creators to deal with the sinister puppet master that brought it crashing down during a wild party of virtual revelry. IF YOU CAN GET TO BUFFALO takes us on a hyperlinked journey that investigates the dark complexities and unexpected comedy underlying the birth of online relationships.

The cast includes Maddie Hicks, Jesse Marciniak, Katelin McMullen, Stephen Nunns and others.

TRISH HARNETIAUX is a Brooklyn-based playwright whose work has been performed and developed at Soho Rep, The Cherry Lane, Dixon Place, The 13th Street Theatre, 78th Street Theatre Lab, The Ohio Theatre, Metropolitan Playhouse, The New Jersey Rep and others. Her latest play, HOW TO GET INTO BUILDINGS, was written in the 2011/2012 Soho Rep Writer/Director Lab. Other plays include YOUR PRETTY LITTLE WORLD (adapted from Shirley Jackson's The Bird's Nest), WELCOME TO THE WHITE ROOM and STRAIGHT ON TIL MORNING (Broadway Play Publishing). Harnetiaux received her MFA from Mac Wellman's playwriting program at Brooklyn College and is a two-time fellow at the MacDowell Colony and The Corporation of Yaddo. She is the co-creator of the Production Company Steel Drum in Space which makes tiny movies about things like unemployed astronauts, space cars and robot cats. Additional fun facts and stuff here: trishharnetiaux.com and steeldruminspace.com.

Eric Nightengale served as artistic director of 78th Street Theatre Lab in New York City from 1995 thru 2008, directing over 50 productions. Other New York directing credits include work with Circle Repertory Theatre, Circle in the Square, Cherry Lane Theatre, The River Ensemble, Ensemble Studio Theatre, 45 Bleecker, Soho Rep, Barefoot Theatre Company, HERE, and Classic Stage Company. Chicago directing credits also include work with Victory Gardens Theatre, Bailiwick Repertory Theatre, Steppenwolf, Chicago Dramatists Workshop, and Second City. His work at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe has resulted in three

Fringe First awards, eight published scripts, four adaptations for BBC radio, a Best Ensemble award, and a London transfer. Recent work includes THE FROG SINGER, an electro-luminescent-wire puppet play; a new adaptation of Homer's ODYSSEY; TRUE HAZARDS OF CHILDHOOD at The Barrow Group, and AN IDIOT, produced by Propinquity Productions for the New York Fringe. His production of DEAD DOGS almost opened the Shanghai InterNational Theatre Festival last year.

Performances of IF YOU CAN GET TO BUFFALO are Thursday and Friday, May 16, 17 @ 8pm, Saturday, May 18 @ 7pm AND 10 pm. May 22 - 25 @ 8pm. Tickets are $10 and are available at the door or at www.theacmecorporation.org.

The Acme Corporation is a new theater company that aims to fill in the gap between more traditional professional theater and the emerging DIY theater community in Baltimore. IF YOU CAN GET TO BUFFALO was developed at The MacDowell Colony and in association with Dixon Place and the Barefoot Theatre Company.

Maryland Ensemble Theatre Announces 2013-14 Season

Tue, 21 May 2013 19:37:10 PST

Maryland Ensemble Theatre (MET) has announced its 2013-2014 mainstage season. MET's sixteenth mainstage season will run from September of 2013 through June of 2014 and will feature a British comic classic, an American masterpiece and several contemporary crowd pleasers. MET Artistic Director Tad Janes believes that each of the six mainstage shows in MET's upcoming season will help, "build on the strong reputation we have earned over the past decade and a half as a destination for challenging, entertaining, professional theater."

The season will open on September 5 with a seriously silly show biz satire. Completely Hollywood (abridged), written by ReEd Martin and Austin Tichenor(additional material by Dominic Conti) will be directed by MET Associate Artistic Director Gene' Fouche'. "This will be the fourth play we have produced by this team of playwrights. The Reduced Shakespeare Company wrote The Complete Shakespeare (abridged), The Complete History of America (abridged), and The Complete Bible (abridged), all of which we've produced and I directed for MET", said Fouche'. "I'm drawn to shows that are more physical. Our audiences seem to appreciate their brand of comedy and it's done with a great deal of improvisation, so it's not unusual for people to see the show multiple times and find something new each time they come." Completely Hollywood (abridged) cuts through the celluloid to condense the 186 greatest films in Hollywood history into a complete compilation of classic cinematic clichés. The show will run through September 29th on the MET mainstage.

From comedy to more comedy, the second show in MET's season is a classic that is considered, "still one of the funniest plays in the English language" (The Hollywood Reporter). The Importance of Being Earnest by Oscar Wilde will run on the MET stage from October 17 through November 10. The show will be directed by Joe Bradywho made his debut directing at the MET last season with It's a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play. Brady returns to direct the story of multiple mistaken identities, both deliberate and unintentional, and what ultimately becomes a hilarious exercise in keeping everyone's name and pseudonym straight. First performed in 1895, Wilde's most popular play is considered his wittiest and finest comedy.

It seems only appropriate to keep the smiles coming with our holiday offering,Santaland Diaries by David Sedaris. The outlandish and true, chronicles of Sedaris' experience as Crumpet the Elf in Macy's Santaland display, this hilarious cult classic features comic encounters during the height of the holiday crunch. Produced previously by Maryland Ensemble back in 2003 the show will offer audiences that saw the previous production the chance to catch up with both Crumpet the Elf and the artistic team of Rona Mensah as Sedaris' alter ego and Suzanne Beal as the show's director who previously collaborated on the project a decade ago. "It is such a privilege to be able to work with Rona on Santaland again, I loved the wonderful characters she created from the text and, of course, David Sedaris is one of the premier humorists of our time", said Beal speaking of her leading lady and Sedaris, the NPR humorist and best-selling author of Me Talk Pretty One Day. "His acerbic wit and apt observations along with Rona's exceptional skills as a performer will definitely perk up this year's holiday season." The show will run from December 5 through 29 on the MET mainstage.

Beginning February 13, 2014 the MET will present the modern classic Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf? by Edward Albee. Perhaps as well know today for Mike Nichols' film adaptation featuring Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton back in 1966, recent productions have proven the play, "has lost none of its searing psychological power over the years" (Entertainment Weekly) and that, "Albee's marital-warfare masterwork remains in a class of its own." (The Hollywood Reporter) The dark comedy portrays husband and wife George and Martha in a searing night of dangerous fun and games. By the evening's end, a stunning, almost unbearable revelation provides a climax that has shocked audiences for years. Peter Wray who most recently directed another American classic for MET, The Glass Menagerie, returns to helm the show that will run through March 9, 2014

Another dark but comic tale takes the stage in April by way of Martin McDonagh's The Lieutenant of Inishmore. The Olivier Award winner for "Best New Comedy" in 2003 will be directed by MET Artistic Director Tad Janes. McDonagh is the author of recent Broadway hits such as The Pillowman and A Behanding in Spokane, and has also famous written and directed the films In Bruges and more recently Seven Psychopaths. The Lieutenant of Inishmore was first produced by the Royal Shakespeare Company in London in 2001. The Financial Times called it McDonagh's "blackest, funniest, most violent, most absurd play to date." The Irish dark comedy will play on the MET mainstage from April 10 through May 4, 2014.

The final show in Maryland Ensemble Theatre's upcoming season is a comedy about marriage, intimacy, and electricity. In the Next Room (or the vibrator play) marks the return of playwright Sarah Ruhl to the MET mainstage who's play Dead Man's Cell Phone was produced by MET in 2011. MET Associate Artistic Director Julie Herber will direct In The Next Room which tells the story of a seemingly perfect, well-to-do Victorian home, and the proper gentleman and scientist Dr. Givings who has innocently invented an extraordinary new device for treating "hysteria". Set in the 1880s at the dawn of the age of electricity, the play centers on a doctor and his wife and how his new therapy affects their entire household. Herber, the show's director, commented, "I've performed in Dead Man's Cell Phone and designed for Eurydice(HOOD) and have come to really enjoy Sarah Ruhl as a playwright. I'm quite fond of her mix of poetic whimsy and deeper psychological explorations, so I'm excited to tackle one of her pieces from a director's eye. I find this play wonderfully insightful into a varieties of the female psyche and appreciate that humor can help us delve into that." In the Next Room (or the vibrator play) will run from May 29 through June 22 at MET.

Each show this season will run for four weeks, every Thursday through Sunday at Maryland Ensemble Theatre located at 31 W Patrick Street in downtown Frederick's historic FSK Hotel. The first Thursday performance of each show will be a $5 preview night and the first Sunday performance will be a gala night with a reception preceding the performance catered by downtown Frederick restaurants. All Thursday throughSaturday shows will be at 8pm and the first and last Sundays will be at 7pm with the middle two Sundays offering matinees at 2pm.

In addition to the mainstage season Maryland Ensemble Theatre's family theatre, The Fun Company will be producing a full season of theater for all ages in addition to the artist residency programs for public schools and the summer Fun Camp. The MET will also be offering two semesters of classes through The Ensemble School and exciting new work through its MET-X productions including the return off the Laugh Stationseries. The Comedy Pigs return to build on their twenty years as one of the regions best sketch and improv troupes. A Christmas Carol will also be returning to the Weinberg and Carroll County Arts Center for another year in what has become a holiday tradition. For more information on the MET's upcoming season you can visitmarylandensemble.org or call 301-694-4744.

BWW Reviews: IN THE HEIGHTS at Toby's Dinner Theatre of Columbia - A Smashing Success

Tue, 21 May 2013 08:25:16 PST

The last time I attended a show at Toby's highly respected Dinner Theatre in Columbia, MD was the summer of 1990 to see their acclaimed production of SUNDAY IN THE PARK WITH GEORGE. I recall my daughter Britt even auditioned for the part of the young girl who "lost her glasses".

When I saw a full page ad in the Baltimore Sun that IN THE HEIGHTS would be coming to the Toby's, I was really excited and knew I had to see it.

There are many reasons. First, my now grown-up daughter in 2007 was actually living in Washington Heights, the location for the musical. She actually lived on 181st where the action takes place and experienced the August 2003 black-out which is part of the end of Act I.

We first saw the show when it was Off-Broadway at the 37 Arts Theatre. We were seated behind the choreographer, Andy Blankenbuehler. At intermission, I said to him "This is some of the best dancing I've seen since WEST SIDE STORY.

I was shocked to see just an impressive set, such a large cast, and some fabulous music and performances. I even bought my daughter a show souvenir shirt which had 181st St. on it.

I then saw it on Broadway and was so pleased to see it win the 2008 Tony Award for Best Musical and to see the star and composer Lin-Manuel Miranda accept his award with an homage to Stephen Sondheim by saying "Mr. Sondheim, I made a hat where there never was a hat".

So it was with great anticipation that I arrived to see what would Toby's do with this Latin-inspired musical filled with Spanish lyrics which starts with a rap number, not the typical musical for the dinner-theatre crowd.

Toby's has garnered its share of Helen Hayes Awards so I did in fact have high expectations and boy were they met.

First I was impressed with the marvelous set with two versions of the lighted up George Washington Bridge. There were front stoops, exits for the subway, a sign for Rosario's Car Service (they don't have cabs in Washington Heights, just a car service where you can always find one in front of Jen's grocery store), and a sign for Daniela's Hair Salon (in Washington Heights they always seem open). Kudos to Set Designer David A. Hopkins who loves details such as gum sticking to lampposts.

The show opens with the rap song by Usnavi (played by the incredibly talented David Gregory) who owns the local bodega where he dispenses coffee, lottery tickets, etc. and he introduces the audience to the inhabitants of the barrio who struggle in everyday life. Look for the tribute to Cole Porter's "The A Train".

There's Usnavi's virtual grandmother Abuela Claudia CrystAl Freeman who is getting up in age and likes to play the lottery every day. Usnavi's young cousin Sonny helps with the bodega and tries to encourage him to start a relationship with the beautiful Vanessa (Nadia Harika) who is trying to leave the neighborhood but has problems getting credit for a new lease.

Owning the local car service are Kevin (David Bosley-Reynolds) and Camila (Tina DeSimone) and they are both wonderful. The book deals with their lovely daughter Nina (Alyssa V. Gomez) who just returns from her freshman year at Stanford and her relationship with local Benny (Marquis White) who works for her father but is never accepted since his not a Latino.

A bright spot is Daniella (Santina Maiolatesi) who owns the hair salon and realizes she must leave the neighborhood due to gentrification.

A highlight for me was Tobias Young who plays Piragua Guy who sells frozen flavored ice and is always in competition with the Mr. Softee ice cream truck. He has a riveting voice in a role that composer Miranda stated he added at a late stage.

The ensemble is absolutely stunning with superb choreography by Christen Svingos. Director Toby Orenstein and Lawrence B. Munsey have accomplished a wonderful theatrical evening for everyone to enjoy. Cedric D. Lyles is responsible for the Musical Direction and on the evening I attended, Doug Lawler directed the orchestra with panache.

To borrow from the insert in the program, "Welcome to The Heights where the coffee from the corner bodega is light and sweet, the windows are always open, and the breeze carries the rhythm of three generations of music."

Do not miss this spectacular production and watch for many Helen Hays' Award nominations.

My only suggestion to Toby's is to offer for sale the wonderful CD of the Broadway production.

IN THE HEIGHTS runs until July 21. For reservations, call 410-730-8311 or visit http://tobysdinnertheatre.com.

cgshubow@broadwayworld.com.

Photo Flash: New Photos from MET's PICKLE MY MONKEY Premiere

Mon, 20 May 2013 22:14:30 PST

Maryland Ensemble Theatre (MET) is wrapping up its 2012-13, 15th anniversary mainstage season with a new World Premiere comedy Pickle My Monkey. Like David Mamet teaming up with the Marx Brothers to write their own apocalyptic version of The Comedy of Errors, Pickle My Monkey is a truly surreal farce. Sexy, madcap, odd, and modern, the show featuring a loaded gun, a briefcase full of cash and a talking chimp, promises to be inventive, original, and fun! Maryland Ensemble Theatre Artistic Director, Tad Janes, directs the script by MET company members Lisa Burl, Kevin Cole and Matt Lee. BroadwayWorld has new production shots below!

The Maryland Ensemble Theatre's latest original production is an offbeat comedy that follows the doomed exploits of three slacker roommates. On the eve of his girlfriend Chloe's (Lisa Burl) high profile art opening, Bobby (Jack Evans) makes the biggest mistake of his life. He brings home a seductive grifter (Courtney McLaughlin) who turns his life upside down. The femme fatale quickly pits Bobby's roommates against each other: the marimba playing philosopher turned stoner, Hank (Matt Lee), versus the painfully awkward, conspiracy theory blogger, Jeff (Kevin Cole). Caught in the con and his own entangled web of lies, Bobby has no choice but to play along. That is, until a stone cold hitman (Thomas Scholtes) pursuing the grifter comes to collect. Inspired by the true story of the "Hipster Grifter", Pickle My Monkey plunges head first into a mysterious world, where everyone only listens to records, drinks cheap beer and wears flannel shirts...ironically, of course.

"This play is created through a group process, improvisation, three writers, and a director to steer the whole project. Each actor was chosen for their specific talents, in improvisation, in writing, and in creating a positive working environment for the group", said director Tad Janes. It is truly an ensemble based creation, scripted and starring MET company members Lisa Burl, Kevin Cole and Matt Lee and featuring company members Jack Evans and Courtney McLaughlin, as well as Thomas Scholtes of The Comedy Pigs. Also featuring original music by Jack Evans, the MET's new original comedy promises to deliver razor sharp slapstick humor with biting social commentary.

The ensemble will be ably assisted by a production team that includes lighting design by Doug Grove, costumes by Julie Herber, set design by Tad Janes, sound design by Tom Majarov and props by Katie Rattigan.

The show will run now through June 9 every Thursday through Sunday at the MET, located in the historic FSK Hotel at 31 W Patrick Street. Tickets are $15 (Thursdays) through $24 and can be purchased at 301.694.4744, marylandensemble.org or in person at the Maryland Ensemble Theatre box office.

Now in it's fifteenth season the Maryland Ensemble Theatre produces thought-provoking theatre, fun family entertainment, artist residency programs for public schools, theatre camps, challenging classes and the side-splitting Comedy Pigs.

Photo Credit: Joe Williams

Thomas Scholtes

Courtney McLaughlin and Thomas Scholtes

Courtney McLaughlin and Kevin Cole

Matt Lee

Jack Evans and Courtney McLaughlin

Lisa Burl and Matt Lee

BWW Reviews: Knowing Your Place - BENEATHA'S PLACE

Mon, 20 May 2013 17:04:26 PST

The "Raisin Cycle" - a series of plays, programs and discussions inspired by Lorraine Hansberry's "Raisin in the Sun" - continues its run with Center Stage Artistic Director and playwright Kwame Kwei-Armah's "Beneatha's Place," which follows on the heels of Bruce Norris' "Clybourne Park."

Like "Clybourne," "Beneatha" is in two acts, the first taking place in 1959, the second, in the present day; both plays take place in the same setting, a home that keeps changing hands. In Clybourne, that home is a bungalow in Chicago, while in Kwei-Armah's work, the house is in Lagos, Nigeria.

Both plays occur during times of major political and civil upheaval-while the rise of Martin Luther King, Jr., and the Civil Rights movement mark "Clybourne," it is Nigeria's struggle to achieve nationhood and freedom from British rule that colors the action in "Beneatha."

"Beneatha's Place" opens with the arrival of Joseph Asagai (Charles Hudson, III) and his wife, Beneatha Asagai Younger (Jessica Frances Dukes), clearly lifted from "A Raisin in the Sun" (where Beneatha Younger meets the young Nigerian medical student, Joseph, becomes enraptured with him and his view on life, and agrees to marry him and move to Nigeria to study medicine) in their new home in a predominantly wealthy white development. They are greeted by the previous owners, Mr. and Mrs. Nelson (Jonathan Crombie and Jenna Sokolowski), the latter mistakenly believing Beneatha to be a "primitive African native"; the scenes where she attempts to instruct Beneatha on how to turn on a light switch are particularly hilarious.

The first act explores the cost of political naiveté, as Joseph, considered a man to watch in Nigeria's new regional government, is sold out by his fellow councilmembers even as he himself considers financial support from a white business and civic leader, Daniel Barnes (James Ludwig).

Props don't always play a central role to a play, but they do in "Beneatha's Place." Upon the Asagais arrival, Joseph begins unpacking his sizable collection of racist "art," for lack of a better term, which serves as a reminder of the struggles blacks face, even in the so-called "land of the free," America. The items include a minstrel-show mask which Beneatha uses as a kind of sociological test. Wearing the mask forces one to appreciate the indignity of how a minority is visualized, what it feels like to "play a Sambo."

The second act takes us to the present day where Beneatha is now a noted professor, author, and head of the local university's department of African studies. She holds a meeting of the instructors in her department to discuss, among other things, whether the school should adopt a "Whiteness studies" curriculum.

The meeting is yet another psycho-sociological test as Beneatha -who holds an ace up her sleeve unbeknownst to her fellow professors-attempts to divine the true beliefs and attitudes of the staff.

While race is certainly at the center of this play, I find it more to be about power. Who is going to hold sway in Nigeria-- the British imperialists, the American capitalists or the native peoples? Who is in charge on the council-will it be Joseph or someone else? What power will the disenfranchised market women, whose plight (as well as the plight of the nation itself) is so eloquently described by Aunty Fola (Kim James Bey) in the first act, have in the new Nigeria? Is Beneatha's place on the university faculty due to her talents or some form of "affirmative action"? And certainly power-who truly has it, and who does not-is at the center of Beneatha's "exercise" in the second act as she proves to be a woman who "knows her place" in life and it is far different than nearly everyone around her perceives it to be.

As is typical of a Center Stage production, the performances are first rate, from Hudson's turn as the tormented Joseph and as the disillusioned billionaire's son, Wale, in the second act. Ludwig also does double duty as the admittedly gay, would-be power broker, Barnes in the first act; then the champion of "whiteness studies," who believes race no longer matters to the "younger generation," Mark Bond, in the second act. Each role is nuanced and separate, while at the same time, sharing some things in common, as both men serve as catalysts for action in both acts.

"Beneatha's Place" continues its run through June 16th. For details or for tickets, visit www.centerstage.org/cycle or call 410-332-0033.

Everyman Theatre Closes Season With THE BEAUX' STRATAGRM

Mon, 20 May 2013 12:29:14 PST

Everyman Theatre closes its historic 2012/13 season with a staging of the rarely produced comedic gem, The Beaux' Stratagem. Founding Artistic Director Vincent M. Lancisi directs the production, which features a large cast of 15 actors and includes Resident Company Members Megan Anderson, Clinton Brandhagen and Bruce Randolph Nelson. Everyman moved into its brand new theatre in January of this year. The production will run from June 5th through June 30th.

A raucous romp through the trials and tribulations of love, money, and marriage, The Beaux' Stratagem follows the adventures of Archer and Aimwell, two young gents who are short on cash and long on schemes. The duo travel from village to village in search of wealth and women. When they happen upon the lovely Dorinda and the equally beautiful Mrs. Kate Sullen, they devise a plan to woo and win them. But, as in every great love story, obstacles abound!

The Restoration-style comedy was written by George Farquhar and originally produced in 1707. Renowned playwright Thornton Wilder began an adaptation of the play in the 1930s but never completed it. Decades later, after Wilder's death, the family's estate approached well-known playwright Ken Ludwig (Lend Me a Tenor, Crazy for You) to complete the adaptation. The brand new version premiered at the Shakespeare Theatre in Washington, DC in 2006. The Everyman production marks the Baltimore premiere of this hysterical adaptation.

"It had me literally laughing out loud while I was just reading the script. When something is that funny, you know you need to produce it," said Founding Artistic Director Vincent Lancisi. "I think it is fitting to wrap up our first season on Fayette Street with comedy, laughter and celebration. It's swash-buckling fun!"

Portraying the "beaux" of the title will be Danny Gavigan (Archer) and Yaegel T. Welch (Aimwell). This will mark Mr. Gavigan's debut at Everyman. He has been seen at such regional theatres as Centerstage (The Rivals, Snow Falling on Cedars), Signature Theatre (Really Really) and La Jolla Playhouse (Peer Gynt). Mr. Welch, direct from a year-long tour with The Acting Company (Of Mice and Men, As You Like It), was last seen at Everyman Theatre as Ogun Size in the critically-acclaimed production of The Brothers Size.

Resident Company Member Megan Anderson (most recently seen in the hit production of God of Carnage) will play Mrs. Kate Sullen. She will be joined onstage with fellow Company Member Clinton Brandhagen (August: Osage County, You Can't Take It With You) as Sullen. Once again showing comedic acumen, Resident Company Member Bruce Randolph Nelson (August: Osage County, You Can't Take It With You) will be pulling double-duty in the two roles of Boniface and Foigard.

Vincent Lancisi directs the final production of the 2012/13 season. His artistic team includes Resident Set Designer Daniel Ettinger, Resident Lighting Designer Jay Herzog, Resident Costume Designer David Burdick, and Resident Dialect Coach Gary Logan, each of whom were members of the artistic team for the theatre's inaugural production,August: Osage County. The design team is drawing on inspiration from famous designers of couture fashion from throughout history. They will be joined by Sound Designer Elisheba Ittoop (Private Lives, Shooting Star) and Wig Designer Anne Nesmith (Pygmalion, All My Sons). Resident Fight Choreographer Lewis Shaw will be not only choreographing and executing extensive sword fights with the cast, but will also lend some of his own weapon design to the production.

The Beaux' Stratagem runs from June 5th through June 30th, offering performances Tuesday throughSunday.

Tickets for The Beaux' Stratagem are now on-sale and range in price from $10 - $60. Subscriptions for the upcoming 2013/14 season will go on sale to the public on Monday, June 3rd.

Everyman Theatre is proud to partner with WBJC 91.5FM as the Media Sponsor of The Beaux' Stratagem.

Everyman Theatre is a professional theatre company dedicated to celebrating the actor, with a resident company of artists from the Baltimore/DC area. Seeking connection and emotional truth in performance, Everyman Theatre was founded in 1990 by Vincent Lancisi. The theatre is committed to engaging the audience through a shared experience between actor and patron, and to presenting high quality plays that are affordable and accessible to everyone.

Vincent Lancisi is the Founder and Artistic Director of Everyman Theatre; Ian Tresselt is the Managing Director.

For information about Everyman Theatre, visit www.everymantheatre.org or call 410.752.2208.

Pumpkin Theatre Family Fun Day Set for 5/26

Mon, 20 May 2013 11:28:36 PST

Pumpkin Theatre will be holding our very popular Free Family Fun Day on Sunday, May 26 from 11am-2pm at Har Sinai Congregation, 2905 Walnut Ave, Owings Mills 21117. We'll have face painting, walk around characters, arts & crafts, tours of our new facility, raffle, food available for purchase, use of the playground, the announcement of our next season, and a special subscription offer!

Don't miss the chance to find out all the excitement we have planned for our upcoming 46th Season! For information on Pumpkin Theatre's special events, education programs,summer camps or to sign up for our e-mail newsletter, please visit us atwww.pumpkintheatre.com. You can also find us on facebook, twitter, and pinterest.

The Stoop Storytelling Series Continues with EUREKA at Center Stage Tonight

Mon, 20 May 2013 00:30:00 PST

The Stoop Storytelling Series presents "Eureka: Stories about discoveries, breakthroughs, and brave new worlds" tonight, May 20 at Center Stage. We'll have seven very different stories about the thrills, and unintended consequences, of discovery--scientific, political, and emotional.

A neuroscientist will talk about erasing memories; a hairstyle archaeologist will school us on ancient Roman 'dos; a mother will describe her campaign to keep her son from committing suicide; a young man will tell a story about discovering that he's gay; and a public justice lawyer will share a tale about the deadliness of a simple toothache.

It's the final mainstage Stoop show of the season--and it's going to be a doozy.

Stop by The Stoop tonight, May 20 for Eureka!: Stories about discoveries, breakthroughs, and brave new worlds. 7 p.m. Cocktails and Live Music from The Manly Deeds, followed by an 8 p.m. show. It all takes place at CENTERSTAGE, 700 N. Calvert Street, Baltimore, MD. Advance Tickets Recommended. General admission tickets, $20. Purchase at stoopstorytelling.com or call 410-332-0033.

Plus, on Tuesday, May 14, the all-audience show "Second Stoop" will feature stories on the theme "First Times." Put your name in the hat to tell a three-minute story. Show starts at 8:00. Admission: $10. At The Windup Space, 12 West North Avenue, Baltimore, MD. Call 410-244-8855 for more information.

Pictured: The Stoop (April 09, 2013) - "Rock Bottoms and Tip Tops: Stories about life's low lows and high highs"

BRAVO@KAT to Stage FIDDLER ON THE ROOF JR., 6/8-9

Sun, 19 May 2013 12:25:55 PST

What possibly could be said or written about a production of FIDDLER ON THE ROOF Jr. that hasn't already been announced countless times? Probably nothing except the one word "tradition" and that's the lasting essence of this theatrical phenomenon on two levels for this BRAVO@KAT student production. The show retells the ethnic traditions of a specific family but it has universal appeal. The "tradition" here is a dual one because it includes the re-enactment of the cherished Broadway tradition of teaching new generations of American children the theatrical classics of our culture.

BRAVO@KAT decided to tackle the poignant themes of Fiddler on the Roof Jr. after its highly successful inuaugural production of The Music Man Jr. on Olney Theatre Center's Historic Stage this past January. With a cast of 42 young artists, featuring students in grades 3-8 from all over the metropolitan area, award-winning Director/Choreographer Darnell Morris and Music Director Laura Brady have fashioned a show whose message is both challenging and sentimental for the youthful cast.

Two students, Shira Minsk (double cast as Tzeitel), and Cole Edelstein (double cast as Motel) have just appeared as Little Boy and Little Girl in the Kensington Art Theatre's recent production of Ragtime at the Kensington Armory. Ethan Miller (double cast as Tevye) is playing the role of Wolfie in a staged concert developmental reading of Signs of Life, an off Broadway show at American University's Katzen Center Studio Theatre, before the production heads to Chicago for a September run. Bryan Stopak (the Fiddler) was cast without the production team being aware that he was actually an accomplished violinist so this production includes "a real Fiddler" whose music is artfully interwoven.

Others of the cast of 42 talented thespians continue to be cast in lead and principal roles in their school productions of Broadway favorites and so these young people are "talking the talk" and "walking the walk" that keeps American musical theatre alive, generation after generation. Their passion for musical theatre is a priority in their lives, even at a young age, because they often give up all other extracurricular activities in order to hone their skills in classes and workshops when not in school. When you come to see a BRAVO@KAT show, it's not "just another kids show". These rising stars are only distinguishable from older professionals in physical stature. Shorter people doing a shortened Jr. version of a Broadway classic - a better way to spend 60 minutes does not exist between here and the Big Apple!

Fiddler on the Roof Jr. will be seen at Randolph Road Theater, 4010 Randolph Road Theatre, Silver Spring, MD on Saturday, June 8 at 1:00 pm, 4:00 pm and 7:30 pm and Sunday, June 9 at 1:00 pm (ASL interpreted show), 4:00 pm and 7:30 pm. Tickets: $18 pre-sale at www.katonline.org or $20 at the door.

Photo Credit: Erica Keys Land, Esq., Erica Land Photography.

Now Playing Onstage in Baltimore - Week of 5/19/2013

Sun, 19 May 2013 10:00:00 PST

View All Show Listings for Baltimore
Click Here to View BroadwayWorld.com Baltimore Calendar

DISNEY'S ARISTOCATS KIDS
MOST BLESSED SACRAMENT CATHOLIC SCHOOL
5/20-5/23/2013
Madame's jealous butler Edgar cat-naps Duchess and her Aristokittens and abandons them in the Parisian countryside. What's a cat to do? Luckily, Thomas O'Malley and his rag-tag bunch of Alley Cats come to their rescue! This feline adventure is sure to get your audiences tapping their feet to its hep, jazzy beat, which includes the Disney favorites "The Aristocats," "Scales and Arpeggios" and "Ev'rybody Wants to Be a Cat."
Click Here for More Information
TARZAN
DRAMA LEARNING CENTER INC
5/11-5/24/2013
Based on Edgar Rice Burrough's Tarzan of the Apes and the smash-hit 1999 Disney animated film, TARZAN tells the story of an infant boy orphaned on the shores of West Africa. Taken in and raised by a tribe of gorillas, the young boy strives for acceptance by his ape father while grappling with his uniqueness. When a human expedition enters their territory, Tarzan - now a man - encounters strangers like himself for the first time. TARZAN features music and lyrics by pop icon Phil Collins, including the Grammy and Oscar winning song, "You'll Be in My Heart", and book by Tony Award-winning playwright, David Henry Hwang.
Click Here for More Information
THE MAGIC FINGER
Imagination Stage
4/12-5/24/2013
The Lerner Family Theatre: - adapt: David Wood from Roald Dahl; dir: Kate Bryer.
Click Here for More Information
NEXT TO NORMAL
STOCKING PRODUCTIONS
5/23-5/25/2013
Pulitzer-Prize winning rock musical NEXT TO NORMAL, with book and lyrics by Brian Yorkey and music by Tom Kitt, explores how one suburban household copes with crisis and mental illness.NEXT TO NORMAL tells the story of a mother, Diane Goodman, who struggles with bipolar disorder and the effect that her illness has on her family. This contemporary musical is an emotional powerhouse that addresses such issues as grieving a loss, ethics in modern psychiatry, and suburban life. With provocative lyrics and a thrilling score, this musical shows how far two parents will go to keep themselves sane and their family's world intact.NEXT TO NORMAL is a deeply moving piece of theatre that provides a wonderful opportunity for performers to explore dramatic material and showcase vocal talents with an energetic pop/rock score. This show is ideal for community theaters, as well as colleges and regional theatre companies.
Click Here for More Information
THE FULL MONTY
SILHOUETTE STAGES
5/17-5/26/2013
Seeing how much their wives enjoy watching male strippers during their "Girls' Night Out," unemployed steelworkers in Buffalo, New York come up with a bold way to make some quick cash. In the process they find renewed self-esteem, the importance of friendship and the ability to have fun.As the guys work through their fears, self-consciousness, feelings of worthlessness and anxieties (over everything from being overweight to child custody, bigotry to being gay), they come to discover that not only are they stronger as a group, but that the strength they find in each other gives them the individual courage to face their demons and overcome them.There is great heart to THE FULL MONTY, and the ultimate themes expressed in the show, about taking charge of one's life and following one's dreams are great lessons for all of us. And truth be told, through creative directing and staging, the final impact of THE FULL MONTY can be achieved without ever losing your jockey shorts!
Click Here for More Information
SEUSSICAL-THEATRE YOUNG AUDIENCES
PATAPSCO SR HIGH SCHOOL
5/23-5/26/2013
Now one of the most performed shows in America, SEUSSICAL is a fantastical, magical, musical extravaganza! Tony winners Lynn Ahrens and Stephen Flaherty (LUCKY STIFF, MY FAVORITE YEAR, ONCE ON THIS ISLAND, and RAGTIME) have lovingly brought to life all of our favorite Dr. Seuss characters, including Horton the Elephant, Gertrude McFuzz, lazy Mayzie and a little boy with a big imagination--Jojo. "Oh, the Thinks You Will Think" as the spirit of imagination transports the colorful characters from the Jungle of Nool to the Circus McGurkus to the invisible world of the Whos.For this version, certain plot elements have been simplified, it is in one act, and runs approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes - perfect for presentation in schools. (See ADDITIONAL FACTS below for details) The story centers around Horton the Elephant, who finds himself faced with a double challenge--not only must he protect his tiny friend Jojo (and all the invisible Whos) from a world of naysayers and dangers, but he must guard an abandoned egg, left to his care by the irresponsible Mayzie La Bird. Although Horton faces ridicule, danger, kidnapping and a trial, the intrepid Gertrude McFuzz never loses faith in him, the only one who recognizes "his kind and his powerful heart." Ultimately, the powers of friendship, loyalty, family and community are challenged and emerge triumphant, in a story that makes you laugh and cry. For complete information on this
Click Here for More Information
JOSEPH AND THE AMAZING TECHNICOLOR DREAMCOAT (MEGAMIX)
Saint James School
5/24-5/26/2013
The Biblical saga of Joseph and his coat of many colors comes to vibrant life in this delightful musical parable. Joseph, his father's favorite son, is a boy blessed with prophetic dreams. When he is sold into slavery by his jealous brothers and taken to Egypt, Joseph endures a series of adventures in which his spirit and humanity are continually challenged. He is purchased by Potiphar where thwarting advances from Potiphar's wife lands him in jail. When news of Joseph's gift to interpret dreams reaches the Pharaoh (wryly and riotously depicted as Elvis), Joseph is well on his way to becoming second in command. Eventually his brothers, having suffered greatly, unknowingly find themselves groveling at the feet of the brother they betrayed but no longer recognize. After testing their integrity, Joseph reveals himself leading to a heartfelt reconciliation of the sons of Israel. Set to an engaging cornucopia of musical styles, from country-western and calypso to bubble-gum pop and rock 'n' roll, this Old Testament tale emerges both timely and timeless. This version of JOSEPH?DREAMCOAT features extended songs and dances. The Megamix is available as a separate rental with this version. Lyrics by Tim Rice; Music by Andrew Lloyd Webber
Click Here for More Information
JOSEPH AND THE AMAZING TECHNICOLOR DREAMCOAT (MEGAMIX)
Saint James School
5/24-5/26/2013
Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat (MEGAMIX)The Biblical saga of Joseph and his coat of many colors comes to vibrant life in this delightful musical parable. Joseph, his father's favorite son, is a boy blessed with prophetic dreams. When he is sold into slavery by his jealous brothers and taken to Egypt, Joseph endures a series of adventures in which his spirit and humanity are continually challenged. He is purchased by Potiphar where thwarting advances from Potiphar's wife lands him in jail. When news of Joseph's gift to interp
Click Here for More Information
JOSEPH AND THE AMAZING TECHNICOLOR DREAMCOAT (MEGAMIX)
Saint James School
5/24-5/26/2013
The Biblical saga of Joseph and his coat of many colors comes to vibrant life in this delightful musical parable. Joseph, his father's favorite son, is a boy blessed with prophetic dreams. When he is sold into slavery by his jealous brothers and taken to Egypt, Joseph endures a series of adventures in which his spirit and humanity are continually challenged. He is purchased by Potiphar where thwarting advances from Potiphar's wife lands him in jail. When news of Joseph's gift to interpret dreams reaches the Pharaoh (wryly and riotously depicted as Elvis), Joseph is well on his way to becoming second in command. Eventually his brothers, having suffered greatly, unknowingly find themselves groveling at the feet of the brother they betrayed but no longer recognize. After testing their integrity, Joseph reveals himself leading to a heartfelt reconciliation of the sons of Israel. Set to an engaging cornucopia of musical styles, from country-western and calypso to bubble-gum pop and rock 'n' roll, this Old Testament tale emerges both timely and timeless. This version of JOSEPH?DREAMCOAT features extended songs and dances. The Megamix is available as a separate rental with this version. Lyrics by Tim Rice; Music by Andrew Lloyd Webber
Click Here for More Information
JAMES AND THE GIANT PEACH
Imagination Stage
4/3-5/26/2013
The Lerner Family Theatre: - adapt: David Wood from Roald Dahl; dir: Janet Stanford.
Click Here for More Information
JOSEPH AND THE AMAZING TECHNICOLOR DREAMCOAT (MEGAMIX)
Saint James School
5/24-5/26/2013
The Biblical saga of Joseph and his coat of many colors comes to vibrant life in this delightful musical parable. Joseph, his father's favorite son, is a boy blessed with prophetic dreams. When he is sold into slavery by his jealous brothers and taken to Egypt, Joseph endures a series of adventures in which his spirit and humanity are continually challenged. He is purchased by Potiphar where thwarting advances from Potiphar's wife lands him in jail. When news of Joseph's gift to interpret dreams reaches the Pharaoh (wryly and riotously depicted as Elvis), Joseph is well on his way to becoming second in command. Eventually his brothers, having suffered greatly, unknowingly find themselves groveling at the feet of the brother they betrayed but no longer recognize. After testing their integrity, Joseph reveals himself leading to a heartfelt reconciliation of the sons of Israel. Set to an engaging cornucopia of musical styles, from country-western and calypso to bubble-gum pop and rock 'n' roll, this Old Testament tale emerges both timely and timeless. This version of JOSEPH?DREAMCOAT features extended songs and dances. The Megamix is available as a separate rental with this version. Lyrics by Tim Rice; Music by Andrew Lloyd Webber
Click Here for More Information
RAGTIME VERSION 2
KENSINGTON ARTS THEATRE
5/1-5/31/2013
This version of RAGTIME, first presented on London's West End, features a smaller orchestration and a revised text/score, so the show can be done with minimal visuals and scenic effects. This version is also ideal for concert presentations of the show. (The full, Broadway-sized orchestration is also available for concert presentations.) Called by Time Magazine "A triumph for the stage," and by the International Herald Tribune "the best musical in twenty years," this acclaimed musical won 1998 Tony Awards for Best Score, Book and Orchestrations, and won both the Drama Desk and Outer Critics Circle Awards for Best Musical and Best Score. RAGTIME is not only a powerful portrait of life in turn-of-the-century America, but a relevant tale for today. Written by the award-winning composer/lyricist team of Stephen Flaherty and Lynn Ahrens (ONCE ON THIS ISLAND, SEUSSICAL and LUCKY STIFF), noted playwright Click Here for More Information
ACT A LADY
Theatre Project
5/24-6/8/2013
Theatre Project: - Jordan Harrison.
Click Here for More Information
PICKLE MY MONKEY
Maryland Ensemble Theatre
5/16-6/9/2013
- Maryland Ensemble Theatre ; dir: Tad Janes.
Click Here for More Information
PICKLE MY MONKEY
Maryland Ensemble Theatre
5/16-6/9/2013
Maryland Ensemble Theatre: -
Click Here for More Information
THE SUBMISSION
Olney Theatre Center for the Arts
5/9-6/9/2013
Mulitz-Gudelsky Theatre Lab: - Jeff Talbott.
Click Here for More Information
CLYBOURNE PARK
CENTERSTAGE
4/10-6/16/2013
Pearlstone Theater: - Bruce Norris; dir: Derrick Sanders.
Click Here for More Information
BENEATHA'S PLACE
CENTERSTAGE
5/8-6/16/2013
Pearlstone Theater: - Kwame Kwei-Armah; dir: Derrick Sanders.
Click Here for More Information
DAYTONA MCKANE AND THE QUEST FOR THE GOLDEN MOLE
Maryland Ensemble Theatre
5/25-6/16/2013
Fun Company- Family Stage: - Matt Lee.
Click Here for More Information
DAYTONA MCKANE AND THE QUEST FOR THE GOLDEN MOLE
Maryland Ensemble Theatre
5/25-6/16/2013
Maryland Ensemble Theatre: - Matt Baughman.
Click Here for More Information
SWING!
Annapolis Summer Garden Theatre
5/23-6/23/2013
'Two thirds rhythm and one third soul.' That's how Fats Waller defined the uniquely American form of popular music and dance known as 'swing.' Requiring only joyful enthusiasm and a ready partner, swing exploded out of pre-war Harlem's hotbed of youth culture and swept the world. It shattered ethnic and cultural barriers, generating specialty styles such as Jive, Swing, Lindy Hop, West Coast Swing, and Hip-Hop Swing. SWING! celebrates this remarkable diversity to the beat of the most exhilarating songs of the period. But as this enthralling song-and-dance show makes abundantly clear, swing was never a time or place -- it has always been a state of mind!Original Concept by Paul Kelly; Original Direction and Choreography by Lynn Taylor-Corbett
Click Here for More Information
SWING!
Annapolis Summer Garden Theatre
5/23-6/23/2013
Swing!'Two thirds rhythm and one third soul.' That's how Fats Waller defined the uniquely American form of popular music and dance known as 'swing.' Requiring only joyful enthusiasm and a ready partner, swing exploded out of pre-war Harlem's hotbed of youth culture and swept the world. It shattered ethnic and cultural barriers, generating specialty styles such as Jive, Swing, Lindy Hop, West Coast Swing, and Hip-Hop Swing. SWING! celebrates this remarkable diversity to the beat of the most e
Click Here for More Information
SWING!
Annapolis Summer Garden Theatre
5/23-6/23/2013
'Two thirds rhythm and one third soul.' That's how Fats Waller defined the uniquely American form of popular music and dance known as 'swing.' Requiring only joyful enthusiasm and a ready partner, swing exploded out of pre-war Harlem's hotbed of youth culture and swept the world. It shattered ethnic and cultural barriers, generating specialty styles such as Jive, Swing, Lindy Hop, West Coast Swing, and Hip-Hop Swing. SWING! celebrates this remarkable diversity to the beat of the most exhilarating songs of the period. But as this enthralling song-and-dance show makes abundantly clear, swing was never a time or place -- it has always been a state of mind!Original Concept by Paul Kelly; Original Direction and Choreography by Lynn Taylor-Corbett
Click Here for More Information
SWING!
Annapolis Summer Garden Theatre
5/23-6/23/2013
'Two thirds rhythm and one third soul.' That's how Fats Waller defined the uniquely American form of popular music and dance known as 'swing.' Requiring only joyful enthusiasm and a ready partner, swing exploded out of pre-war Harlem's hotbed of youth culture and swept the world. It shattered ethnic and cultural barriers, generating specialty styles such as Jive, Swing, Lindy Hop, West Coast Swing, and Hip-Hop Swing. SWING! celebrates this remarkable diversity to the beat of the most exhilarating songs of the period. But as this enthralling song-and-dance show makes abundantly clear, swing was never a time or place -- it has always been a state of mind!Original Concept by Paul Kelly; Original Direction and Choreography by Lynn Taylor-Corbett
Click Here for More Information
IN THE HEIGHTS
Toby's Dinner Theatre
5/3-7/21/2013
IN THE HEIGHTS tells the universal story of a vibrant community in New York?s Washington Heights neighborhood ? a place where the coffee from the corner bodega is light and sweet, the windows are always open and the breeze carries the rhythm of three generations of music. It?s a community on the brink of change, full of hopes, dreams and pressures, where the biggest struggles can be deciding which tradtions you take with you, and which ones you leave behind. IN THE HEIGHTS is the winner of the 2008 Tony Awards for Best Musical, Best Score, Best Choreography and Best Orchestrations. Music and Lyrics by Lin-Manuel Miranda; Book by Quiara Aleg
Click Here for More Information
IN THE HEIGHTS
Toby's Dinner Theatre
5/3-7/21/2013
In the HeightsIN THE HEIGHTS tells the universal story of a vibrant community in New York?s Washington Heights neighborhood ? a place where the coffee from the corner bodega is light and sweet, the windows are always open and the breeze carries the rhythm of three generations of music. It?s a community on the brink of change, full of hopes, dreams and pressures, where the biggest struggles can be deciding which tradtions you take with you, and which ones you leave behind. IN THE HEIGHTS is the win
Click Here for More Information
IN THE HEIGHTS
Toby's Dinner Theatre
5/3-7/21/2013
IN THE HEIGHTS tells the universal story of a vibrant community in New York?s Washington Heights neighborhood ? a place where the coffee from the corner bodega is light and sweet, the windows are always open and the breeze carries the rhythm of three generations of music. It?s a community on the brink of change, full of hopes, dreams and pressures, where the biggest struggles can be deciding which tradtions you take with you, and which ones you leave behind. IN THE HEIGHTS is the winner of the 2008 Tony Awards for Best Musical, Best Score, Best Choreography and Best Orchestrations. Music and Lyrics by Lin-Manuel Miranda; Book by Quiara Aleg
Click Here for More Information
IN THE HEIGHTS
Toby's Dinner Theatre
5/3-7/21/2013
IN THE HEIGHTS tells the universal story of a vibrant community in New York?s Washington Heights neighborhood ? a place where the coffee from the corner bodega is light and sweet, the windows are always open and the breeze carries the rhythm of three generations of music. It?s a community on the brink of change, full of hopes, dreams and pressures, where the biggest struggles can be deciding which tradtions you take with you, and which ones you leave behind. IN THE HEIGHTS is the winner of the 2008 Tony Awards for Best Musical, Best Score, Best Choreography and Best Orchestrations. Music and Lyrics by Lin-Manuel Miranda; Book by Quiara Aleg
Click Here for More Information

View All Show Listings for Baltimore
Click Here to View BroadwayWorld.com Baltimore Calendar