On Stage Tonight - Four Shows

Four great shows to choose from tonight - and it's your last (or only) chance for all four!

They are:

- The Drowsy Chaperone pays a one-time only visit to the Paramount Arts Center tonight at 7 p.m.

- Charley's Aunt will be presented by the Marshall University Department of Theatre at the Joan C. Edwards Playhouse tonight at 8 p.m. Tickets are $14 for adults, $12 for students and senior citizens, $7 children and $5 for groups.

- Doubt will be presented by the Charleston Stage Company at the WVSU Capitol Center Theater tonight at 8 p.m.

- And Then I Wrote will be presented at Blazer High School in Ashland tonight at 8 p.m. Tickets are $5 for adults and $3 for students and seniors.

On Stage This Weekend - and Other News

Here are the shows you should be checking out this weekend:

- Charley's Aunt will be presented by the Marshall University Department of Theatre at the Joan C. Edwards Playhouse tonight and Saturday at 8 p.m. Tickets are $14 for adults, $12 for students and senior citizens, $7 children and $5 for groups.

- Doubt presented by the Charleston Stage Company at the WVSU Capitol Center Theater tonight and Saturday at 8 p.m.

- The comedy And Then I Wrote will be presented at Blazer High School in Ashland tonight and tomorrow at 8 p.m. Tickets are $5 for adults and $3 for students and seniors.

- The Drowsy Chaperone pays a visit to the Paramount Arts Center on Saturday at 7 p.m. (more about that below).

And here's some other news you can use:

- The Herald-Dispatch has a gallery of photos from rehearsals for Charlotte's Web (which starts a week from today at the Renaissance Theater) - you can see them right here. Hey, there's one on the right!

- You can read an excellent story right here about The Drowsy Chaperone by the Herald-Dispatch's Beth Hendricks.

Here's a sample:

The show with the most 2006 Tony Awards of any musical on Broadway is setting up shop at the Paramount Arts Center in a 7 p.m. show Saturday.

Tickets are $10-$60.

The Drowsy Chaperone is set in the apartment of the lonely, witty Man in Chair, who serves as narrator and commentator for the evening. He puts on a favorite cast album of an obscure 1920s musical, and as he shares his enthusiasm and observations about the show with the audience, the musical springs to life in his apartment.

For tickets or more information, call 606-324-3175 or go online at www.paramountartscenter.com.

On Stage This Weekend - "The Drowsy Chaperone"

Not only is the Broadway hit The Drowsy Chaperone coming to the Paramount Arts Center this weekend - you might also be able to get your tickets at a bargain price!

Here's the scoop:

In the spirit of New York City theaters, the Paramount is now offering day-of-show, half-priced ticket sales. The tickets are only available for purchase by coming to the box office between Noon and 3 PM. The day-of discounts apply only to Paramount hosted events, and do not apply to $10 seats. This week, get 1/2 price show day tickets for The Drowsy Chaperone!

If you're not familiar with the show, here's a description:

Get ready to be transported to a magical, wonderful world! A world where the critics are in awe, the audiences are in heaven and the neighborhood is buzzing with excitement. Welcome to The Drowsy Chaperone, the new musical comedy that is swooping into town with tons of laughs and the most 2006 Tony Awards of any musical on Broadway!

It all begins when a die-hard musical fan plays his favorite cast album, a 1928 smash hit called The Drowsy Chaperone, and the show magically bursts to life. We are instantly immersed in the glamorous, hilarious tale of a celebrity bride and her uproarious wedding day, complete with thrills and surprises that take both the cast (literally) and the audience (metaphorically) soaring into the rafters.

Finally, here's a short clip from one of the show's best numbers:

"Alice in Wonderland, Jr." - A Review

My pal Zach Davis sends in this entry - a review of the recent ACTC production of Alice in Wonderland, Jr.:

“Zippity do da, zippity ay, a wonderful feeling, a wonderful day.”

Disney’s Alice in Wonderland Jr. came to life last weekend at Ashland Community and Technical College. The ACTC Children's show was simply delightful.

It all begins when Alice is out listening to her sister babble on about how she needs to grow up. Alice, having a short attention span (as does any child), drifts off to sleep... or does she?

She finds herself chasing the always late White Rabbit into the rabbit hole, taking her into a world not short of confusion.

Then the story takes off, with twist and turns like no other. Alice is played by three lovely and talented individuals (Small Alice - Molly Baldock, Medium - Sarah Shivel, and Tall - Caroline Clay. They spin in and out depending on what size Alice is at the moment.

The lost and confused Alice then finds herself dubbed “Sorry” by the crowd-pleasing devious duo, Tweedle Dee played by Huntington’s own Levi Kelley, and Tweedle Dum Chad Hedrick. These two actors left the audience in stitches.

The fun doesn’t stop there. Alice escapes the wits of the Tweedles and finds herself being sassed by the “Golden Afternoon Club,” a flower bed that has a bite worse than their bark.

As Alice goes through this tiring journey, the Cheshire Cat, played by a terrific trio, tell the tale as it happens. Our heroine then winds up crossing paths with the the dictation diva, the Caterpillar (Lauren Saltsman). Let me just say she stole the show.

Tea time and a very happy unbirthday can only mean that the Mad Hatter and The March Hare are pulling their ever-exhausting shenanigans. Poor Alice then reunites with the White Rabbit briefly and as she follows him, she finds the card soldiers painting the roses red. She quickly finds herself bowing at the feet of the Queen of Hearts (Haley Clay).

The talented young Queen makes everyone shudder with her booming “Off with their heads!” After Alice outsmarts the Queen at her own game, she finds herself on trial. Then after a rambling trial she wakes up to realize it was all a dream, except she found the White Rabbit's famous watch in her blouse.

I will say that due to little time and manpower, the set was minimal and sparse - however the children made you feel like everything was there. The costumes were outstanding.

Paula Krepsik, along with her team of helpers, outdid themselves. The caterpillar, lobsters and three-piece cat, among the rest were just perfect. The team or Directors and Production staff deserve a huge hand for a job well done.

I must admit I am a little partial to the ACTC acting community. It was incredibly moving to see the curtain rise after it has been closed for so long.

I have never seen a show that had more heart than Alice in Wonderland Jr.. It truly is a blessing to have ACTC Theatre back in operation after a long hard fight to recovery.

Out of 5 stars I give it 4. Way to go everyone! You have something you should be truly proud of.

Zach also adds: "Although the show has not yet been named, ACTA will stage a spring musical, and I assure you that you will find me involved with it."

"Charley's Aunt" Takes The Stage

Starting tomorrow night at Marshall University you can enjoy a terrific stage comedy by some incredibly talented performers.

You can read about Charley's Aunt in this story by Beth Hendricks in the Herald-Dispatch.

Here's an excerpt:

It's mistaken identity all over during the well-known English farce Charley's Aunt, which will be presented by the Marshall University Theatre department Wednesday through Saturday, Feb. 25-28, at 8 p.m. nightly in the Joan C. Edwards Performing Arts Center.

The tale, set in the Victorian period and written by Brandon Thomas, chronicles the dating travails of Jack Chesney and Charley Wykeham, undergraduates at Oxford University. Requiring a chaperone for their dates with Amy and Kitty and with Charley's aunt headed to town, the duo set up the night on the town. When Charley's aunt sends a telegram to say that she has been detained on business and will be a few days late, the boys persuade a male friend to masquerade as Charley's aunt. Hilarity ensues.

"It's all mistaken identity, all these situations they get caught in and work out, physical humor, slamming of doors and chaos," said director and theater professor Gene Anthony. "It has all of those wonderful farcical elements, as well as being a beautiful period piece with extraordinary Victorian costumes and three full sets on a revolving stage."

Anthony called the show "fully family-oriented," with "not one single, solitary inappropriate instance."

"It's straight, flat-out comedic entertainment, as clean-cut as a 1930s barber," he said.

Tickets are $14 for adults, $12 for seniors and MU faculty and staff and $7 for patrons 17 and younger. Seniors can obtain a special ticket rate of $5 for opening night only.

For tickets or additional information, call (304) 696-2787.

The Oscar Winners!

Ah, the winners have been announced - but who won our Oscar competition? Here are the results:

Neal had 4 of 8 correct.
Denise - 6 of 8
Mark - 6 of 8
Stephen - 4 of 8
Chuck - 5 of 8
Linda - 7 of 8
Zach - 5 of 8
Jon - 6 of 8

So our winner is none other than local star of the stage, my pal Linda Reynolds! Congratulations - you have bragging rights until the Oscars in 2010! (We await your acceptance speech!)

Thanks to everyone who took part in our competition! To all those who were runner-ups, better luck next time!

And, just in case you're wondering, here's the complete list of Oscar winners, courtesy of the Associated Press:

—Motion Picture: "Slumdog Millionaire."

—Actor: Sean Penn, "Milk."

—Actress: Kate Winslet, "The Reader."

—Supporting Actor: Heath Ledger, "The Dark Knight."

—Supporting Actress: Penelope Cruz, "Vicky Cristina Barcelona."

—Director: Danny Boyle, "Slumdog Millionaire."

—Foreign Film: "Departures," Japan.

—Adapted Screenplay: Simon Beaufoy, "Slumdog Millionaire."

—Original Screenplay: Dustin Lance Black, "Milk."

—Animated Feature Film: "WALL-E."

—Art Direction: "The Curious Case of Benjamin Button."

—Cinematography: "Slumdog Millionaire."

—Sound Mixing: "Slumdog Millionaire."

—Sound Editing: "The Dark Knight."

—Original Score: "Slumdog Millionaire," A.R. Rahman.

—Original Song: "Jai Ho" from "Slumdog Millionaire," A.R. Rahman and Gulzar.

—Costume: "The Duchess."

—Documentary Feature: "Man on Wire."

—Documentary (short subject): "Smile Pinki."

—Film Editing: "Slumdog Millionaire."

—Makeup: "The Curious Case of Benjamin Button."

—Animated Short Film: "La Maison en Petits Cubes."

—Live Action Short Film: "Spielzeugland (Toyland)."

—Visual Effects: "The Curious Case of Benjamin Button."

Academy Award winners previously announced this season:

Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award (Oscar statuette): Jerry Lewis

Gordon E. Sawyer Award (Oscar statuette): Pixar Animation co-founder Ed Catmull

Oscar Winners - Jon's Choices

My pal Jon weighs in with his Oscar picks - there's still time, movie fans!

Jon chose:

1. Best motion picture of the year

Slumdog Millionare

2. Performance by an actor in a leading role

Mickey Rourke in The Wrestler

3. Performance by an actor in a supporting role

Heath Ledger in The Dark Knight

4. Performance by an actress in a leading role

Kate Winslet in The Reader

5. Performance by an actress in a supporting role

Viola Davis in Doubt

6. Best animated feature film of the year

WALL-E

7. Achievement in visual effects

The Curious Case of Benjamin Button

8. Achievement in music written for motion pictures (Original score)

Slumdog Millionaire

Oscar Winners - Zach's Picks

My pal Zach sent in his choices in our humble little Oscar competition - remember, you can send in your entries right up to the start of the Oscar broadcast.

I'm not planning to live-blog the Oscars, but I'll probably check in from time to time to see how it's going.

Here are Zach's picks:

1. Best motion picture of the year

- Milk or Frost/Nixon - This year being such a huge political affair and I feel one of these stands a chance.

2. Performance by an actor in a leading role

- Sean Penn - Huge undertaking and I heard he did great.

3. Performance by an actor in a supporting role

- Heath Ledger in The Dark Knight - A no-brainer.

4. Performance by an actress in a leading role

- Meryl Streep - She always delivers a great performance. Tough group to win.

5. Performance by an actress in a supporting role

- Penelope Cruz - Why not?

6. Best animated feature film of the year

- WALL-E - OF COURSE!!!!

7. Achievement in visual effects

- Benjamin Button

8. Achievement in music written for motion pictures (Original score)

- Wall-E - It's just all around good. I see this film winning maybe three awards.

More About "Abner"

My pal Stephen Vance wrote this about this weekend's production of Li'l Abner at Huntington High School:

Abner has been performed four times in the last 36 hours.

One of the great things for the kids is that three of the shows were school shows, two of which were completely sold out. Audiences like that bring a special energy that few get to experience.

One testament to the appeal of this show happened today. The show got started just a tad late and ran up into lunch time. When the lunch bell rang, only two people out of 700 left for food. Imagine 698 teenagers neglecting a chance to eat to finish watching the show. If that doesn't tell you something about the entertainment of the show, I don't know what does.

We're having a blast with this show, and I hope everyone can get out to see it this weekend, since this our one and only weekend.

On Stage This Weekend - Four Shows

February continues to be a surprisingly busy month, and there are four shows this weekend you should check out:

- The musical Li'l Abner will be presented at Huntington High School Friday and Saturday at 7:30 p.m., and Sunday at 3 p.m. Tickets are $7 for adults and $5 for students.

- Disney's Alice In Wonderland Jr. will be presented at ACTC on Friday and Saturday at 8:00 p.m., and Sunday at 2:30 p.m.

- Doubt will be presented by the Charleston Stage Company at the WVSU Capitol Center Theater Friday and Saturday and Feb. 26 - 28 at 8 p.m.

- The Capitol Steps will perform at the Clay Center Saturday at 8 p.m.

Oscar Winners - Linda's Choices

My pal Linda (in her first ever comment on our humble blog) gives us her choices for the Oscars.

Stop by anytime, Linda!

Her picks:

1. Best motion picture of the year
- Slumdog

2. Performance by an actor in a leading role
- Mickey Rourke

3. Performance by an actor in a supporting role
- Heath Ledger

4. Performance by an actress in a leading role
- Kate Winslet - but I wonder about Melissa Leo - dark horse?

5. Performance by an actress in a supporting role
- Penelope Cruz

6. Best animated feature film of the year
- Wall-E

7. Achievement in visual effects
- The Curious Case of Benjamin Button

Can't wait to see who wins!

But Linda - you fogot to pick a winner in the last category: 8. Achievement in music written for motion pictures (Original score)!

Curious minds want to know!

EDIT: Linda has voted! Her choice for Original Score: Slumdog Millionaire!

Oscar Winners - Chuck's Choices

Sunday the Oscar winners are announced, and there's still time to take part in our contest here at the Tri-State Theatre Blog!

The prize is bragging rights, so don't miss your chance! The categories are listed in this post.

Rather than put it off any longer, here are my choices:

1. Best motion picture of the year

- Slumdog Millionaire - I had to pick it. It's a great movie, and it's the only one of the nominees I've actually seen.

2. Performance by an actor in a leading role

- Mickey Rourke in The Wrestler - His is the kind of story Hollywood loves: riches to rags to riches again.

3. Performance by an actor in a supporting role

- Heath Ledger in The Dark Knight - A virtual lock, and well deserved. He was the best thing in The Dark Knight.

4. Performance by an actress in a leading role

- Kate Winslet in The Reader - No idea in this category, but I figure, why not?

5. Performance by an actress in a supporting role

- Amy Adams in Doubt - Just because I'm sweet on her (but don't tell my wife)!

6. Best animated feature film of the year

- WALL-E - If there were any justice, this movie would win the Best Picture category, too. But animated films are trapped in this limiting category. It's sad, really.

7. Achievement in visual effects

- Iron Man - Benjamin Button will win this, but I have to vote for my old pal Tony Stark. I knew him when.

8. Achievement in music written for motion pictures (Original score)

- Slumdog Millionaire - Just for the big musical number over the credits.

Just A Reminder - This Is Everyone's Blog!

In a recent comment, my pal Zach Davis said, "I just want to let you know if you ever need anything let me know. I see a lot of shows and I don't mind (writing) a review if you happen to miss out."

Zach, thanks! Your comment gives me a chance to remind our readers: I consider this "our" blog (the "our" being all of us who enjoy community theatre), and reviews, commentary and essays of all shapes and sizes are always welcome!

I certainly can't make it to every show, so guest reviews would be much appreciated! Feel free to email such things to me at TheMinskers@aol.com.

But I should add that I reserve the right to edit for grammar and spelling according to the Associated Press stylebook. Also, abusive language is right out. Otherwise, go for it!

You're Reading Post #1000!

Amazing to realize that, in addition to President's Day, today we can celebrate Post #1000 for this humble blog site.

When my pals at the Herald-Dispatch invited me to write this blog, I hoped to bring attention to the efforts by many people to bring community theatre to life in our area.

That continues to be our focus, and I have to say, it's been a lot of fun and I've made many new friends along the way.

It's encouraging to note that this blog continues to draw strong web traffic - a testament to the interest in local theatre.

I wanted to take a moment to thank my editor, Andrea, to my wife and family, and to the readers out there - you all make this blog fun to work on!

As always, I encourage our readers to make comments, send in information, and enjoy the blog!

It continues to be a lot of fun for me - and I hope it's the same for you!

It took 28 months to create 1000 posts - let's see if we can hit #2000 in less time!

As always, thanks for reading!

"Bitsy, Boots... and Ida" - A Review

I took my lovely wife Jeanette on a Valentine's Date last night to see the newest play by local playwright (and my pal) Jonathan Joy.

The show was Bitsy, Boots... and Ida, and it was a sequel to last year's show, Bitsy and Boots.

I really enjoyed the original show, but I have to admit that I enjoyed this one even more. A packed house at the First United Methodist Church in Huntington got an outstanding dinner, and then enjoyed this terrific new comedy.

The play centers around two sisters - Bitsy and Boots, natch. They are played to perfection by Jane Morse (Bitsy) and Loretta Hetzer (Boots). They're cranky, conniving, and I defy anyone to watch the show and not think, "I know people like that." Their comic timing is spot on, and both can get laughs by just raising an eyebrow.

Their lives have become very complicated, thanks to a visit from their cousin, Ida, an eccentric and toxic relative who commits the ultimate sin - she drops in for a visit and then refuses to leave. She is brought to life in delightfully wicked fashion by the excellent Rebecca Payne.

The author of the play, Jonathan Joy, also stepped onto the stage as Tommy, who was raised by his Aunts (Bitsy and Boots) and returns to the home with his fiancee, Kat (played by Melissa Langham), only to find the house in a state of near warfare. Jon and Melissa are both terrific actors, and got several huge laughs just with their reactions to the antics of their aunts. Their characters add to the tension, as Kat starts out as the supportive and understanding wife-to-be, but soon finds herself stressed out by the conflict. Tommy is the man in the middle, as he tries to maintain peace in the household, even as he uncovers a secret that gives the situation an even funnier spin.

Rounding out the cast is Zach Davis, who played the part of Max, the boyfriend of Boots. He's the youngest guy on the stage, but Zach is also a darn good actor, and got the maximum laughs out of his role as a supportive (if bumbling) local politician.

The only problem with the offerings from the First United Methodist Church is that they only arrive once a year. I'm sure everyone in that packed auditorium would agree - we'd love to see intelligent, funny, professional shows like this more often.

(Of course, the director of the show, my pal Jerry Morse, probably read that and fainted away. Hey, Jerry, that's what you get for putting on such a great show!)

It was yet another excellent production, and if you missed it, it's your own fault - I've been telling you all week it was going to be a great show!

Coming Soon - "Alice in Wonderland, Jr."

Here's a show for February that I missed. Our pal Elphie315 wrote to say:

Don't Forget Disney's Alice In Wonderland Jr. at ACTC on Feb 20 and 21 at 8:00 p.m., and Feb. 23 at 2:30 p.m.

Thanks for the catch, Elphie!

On Stage This Weekend - Four Shows!

It's feast time, as you have four shows to choose from on Saturday - all offering a fun time, and two include meals!

They are:

- Bitsy, Boots... and Ida at First United Methodist Church Saturday at 8 p.m. Dinner and the show costs $22; $8 for children under 12, or (space permitting) you can see the show only for $5.

- Broadway in Love presented by ARTS at the Renaissance Theater Saturday at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $70 per couple. Sunday's show is at 2 p.m., and tickets for that performance at $15 for a meal and $10 for the show.

- Intimate Apparel by the Kanawha Players at the Kanawha Players Theater in Charleston Saturday. Tickets are $16 for adults and $10 for children.

- The West Virginia Symphony with featured vocalist Ryan Hardiman will present My Funny Valentine Saturday at 11 a.m. at the Clay Center in Charleston.

Check 'em out!

On Stage This Weekend - "My Funny Valentine"

If you're looking for a fun Valentine's Day event to take your sweetie to, check out Saturday morning's concert at the Clay Center.

Here's my pal Ryan Hardiman with the story about that and another event Saturday evening:

The West Virginia Symphony will present a Valentine's Day performance this Saturday, Feb. 14 at 11 a.m. as part of the Family Discovery Series.

The symphony will be doing some orchestral selections, including the waltz from Carousel, and suites from Phantom of the Opera and West Side Story, and my setlist includes:

"Soliloquy"from Carousel
"Music of the Night" from The Phantom Of The Opera
"My Funny Valentine" from Babes in Arms
"Can You Feel The Love Tonight?" from The Lion King
"Remember When It Rained" by Josh Groban
"This Is The Moment" from Jekyll & Hyde

Also, I'm told that after I perform "This Is the Moment", Rob Evan (who was the first person I saw perform the part of Jekyll/Hyde on Broadway!) will join me onstage and talk about having performed the role as a promo for his Broadway Rocks concert that night! I'm excited about the fact that he'll be in the audience for my performance (Talk about pressure!)

Here's the show information:

City National Bank
Family Discovery Series with
The West Virginia Symphony Orchestra presents
My Funny Valentine
featuring Symphony Idol Ryan Hardiman

Saturday, February 14, 2009
Concert at 11 a.m
Activities in the Grand Lobby begin at 10 a.m.

Maier Foundation Performance Hall
Clay Center for the Arts and Sciences,
One Clay Square
Charleston, WV 25301

General Admission Tickets:
Adults $10
Children $5

Box office will be open an hour before the concert with no additional service charge.

To buy tickets online ($2.50 service charge applies per ticket) go to:
https://tickets.theclaycenter.org/public/default.asp

Easy directions from Huntington:
Take I-64 East
Take exit 100 Broad St/Leon Sullivan Way
and merge into the left lane.
At end of exit ramp, you will see The Clay Center.
Turn left at US-60/Washington St E
Convenient parking next to the Clay Center.

Also, on Friday and Saturday night at 8 p.m., The WVSO presents Broadway Rocks! with Broadway veterans Rob Evan, Doug LaBrecque, Cheryl Freeman, Anne Runolffson and the WVSO Chorus
Friday and Saturday, February 13 & 14, 2009 at 8:00 p.m.

Maier Foundation Performance Hall
Clay Center for the Arts and Sciences,
One Clay Square
Charleston, WV 25301

Reserved Tickets $11.50 to $53.50

On Stage in February

There are lots of shows for you to choose from this month! Here's the list I have so far (as always, if I've missed any, drop me a line at TheMinskers@aol.com and I'll post corrections):

- Bitsy, Boots... and Ida at First United Methodist Church Feb. 13 and 14 at 8 p.m. Dinner and the show costs $22; $8 for children under 12, or (space permitting) you can see the show only for $5.

- Broadway in Love presented by ARTS at the Renaissance Theater Feb. 13 and 14 at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $70 per couple. The Feb. 15 show is at 2 p.m., and tickets for that performance at $15 for a meal and $10 for the show.

- Intimate Apparel by the Kanawha Players at the Kanawha Players Theater in Charleston Feb. 13 and 14. Tickets are $16 for adults and $10 for children.

- The West Virginia Symphony with featured vocalist Ryan Hardiman will present My Funny Valentine Feb. 14 at 11 a.m. at the Clay Center in Charleston.

- Li'l Abner at Huntington High School Feb. 19 - 21 at 7:30 p.m., and Feb. 22 at 3 p.m. Tickets are $7 for adults and $5 for students.

- Doubt presented by the Charleston Stage Company at the WVSU Capitol Center Theater Feb. 19 - 21 and 26 - 28 at 8 p.m.

- The Capitol Steps will perform at the Clay Center Feb. 20 at 8 p.m.

- Charley's Aunt will be presented by the Marshall University Department of Theatre at the Joan C. Edwards Playhouse Feb. 25 - 28 at 8 p.m. Tickets are $14 for adults, $12 for students and senior citizens, $7 children and $5 for groups.

And as far as I know, that's it!

LATE ADDITION: Disney's Alice In Wonderland Jr. will be presented at ACTC on Feb 20, 21 at 8:00 p.m., and Feb. 23 at 2:30 p.m.

Leslie McElroy Memorial Scholarship

For quite a few years now, First Stage Theatre Company has offered the Jim Stone Scholarship to deserving students who study the performing arts in college. Now I'm proud to announce that First Stage has added another scholarship, this one named in honor of my dear friend Leslie McElroy.

She was a fellow board member of First Stage, in addition to being a producer on a number of shows, including Seussical the Musical and Bye Bye Birdie, she was an actor in A Christmas Story, and more importantly, she was a terrific wife and mother.

Here's the announcement for the brand new scholarship named in her honor:

The First Stage Theatre Company is now accepting applications for the newly-created Leslie McElroy Memorial Scholarship.

First Stage sponsors the scholarship to honor the memory of Leslie McElroy, a board member of First Stage, a producer, actor, wife and mother who died too young and is missed by all who knew her.

A $1000 scholarship is available to entering freshmen or current full-time students who are studying dramatic or performing arts at a college, university or certified school of the performing arts.

Entries must be received by Monday, March 9, 2009.

Applicants must have been involved with at least one First Stage Theatre Company (or Musical Arts Guild - Children's Theatre) show, either on-stage (as a performer) or off-stage (as a member of the tech crew).

Applicants must send a list of the shows they’ve been in, a list of school-related extra-curricular activities, a list of public service activities, a copy of an official school document showing the individual's most recent grade-point average, identification of the college the individual is attending or will attend, and a brief statement (250 words or less) on why the applicant is interested in studying dramatic or performing arts and detailing the applicant's financial need for the award.

Applications should be sent to First Stage Scholarships, c/o Nancy Newfeld, 3 Stratford Way, Huntington, WV 25705. For more information, call 304-736-4366.

Photo Gallery for "Li'l Abner"

The Herald-Dispatch has a nice photo gallery right here with photos from the upcoming Huntington High production of Li'l Abner.

The photos are courtesy of my pal Stephen Vance.

This photo shows Julia Galloway as Daisy Mae, Mark Radford as Li'l Abner and Josie Landgrave as a townsperson in the show.

Li'l Abner will be presented 7:30 p.m. Thursday-Saturday, Feb. 19-21, and 3 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 22, at Huntington High School. Cost is $7, $5 students.

It's a classic Broadway show, with lots of great songs and comic moments. It's lots of fun for all ages!

More About "Bitsy, Boots... and Ida"

My pal Dave Lavender wrote a great feature story for the Herald-Dispatch about a fun Valentine's show coming up this weekend. You can read it right here.

Here's a sample:

Guess who is coming to dinner again?

When First United Methodist Church was looking for another Jon Joy play for its 2009 dinner theater, Joy couldn't resist continuing the wacky adventures of Bitsy and Boots, two aunts who put the fun in dysfunctional.

Joy, who graduated from Marshall University in 2004 with a master's in English, said he couldn't resist writing more about Bitsy and Boots, after First United Methodist Church did the original play last winter for its dinner theater.

Not unlike Tyler Perry's endless well with Madea, Joy said the two aunts are ripe for comedic writing.

"Even when I did it last year those characters were really special, and I realized I could really do a lot more with them," Joy said. "We were talking about a sequel even during rehearsals last year, and there may be more to come."

The new comedy, Bitsy, Boots... and Ida, makes its premiere at 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday night at First United Methodist Church, 1124 5th Ave.

Dinner for the show starts at 6:30 p.m. Dinner and the show costs $22; $8 for children under 12, or (space permitting) you can see the show only for $5.

Seating is limited so reservations are required. Child care is available.

Call 304-522-0357 or 740-867-8576 for more information or to make a reservation.

Not only is the show a lot of fun, but the dinner is excellent! (And I'm speaking with the voice of experience here.) Highly recommended!

There's Still Time to Choose Your Oscar Winners

Just a reminder that there's still time to enter our contest, where the only prize is bragging rights!

I'll be making my picks soon, since I finally got to see one of the nominees for best picture (Slumdog Millionaire).

Here are the categories we're voting on:

1. Best motion picture of the year

- The Curious Case of Benjamin Button
- Frost/Nixon
- Milk
- The Reader
- Slumdog Millionaire

2. Performance by an actor in a leading role

- Richard Jenkins in The Visitor
- Frank Langella in Frost/Nixon
- Sean Penn in Milk
- Brad Pitt in The Curious Case of Benjamin Button
- Mickey Rourke in The Wrestler

3. Performance by an actor in a supporting role

- Josh Brolin in Milk
- Robert Downey Jr. in Tropic Thunder
- Philip Seymour Hoffman in Doubt
- Heath Ledger in The Dark Knight
- Michael Shannon in Revolutionary Road

4. Performance by an actress in a leading role

- Anne Hathaway in Rachel Getting Married
- Angelina Jolie in Changeling
- Melissa Leo in Frozen River
- Meryl Streep in Doubt
- Kate Winslet in The Reader

5. Performance by an actress in a supporting role

- Amy Adams in Doubt
- Penélope Cruz in Vicky Cristina Barcelona
- Viola Davis in Doubt
- Taraji P. Henson in The Curious Case of Benjamin Button
- Marisa Tomei in The Wrestler

6. Best animated feature film of the year

- Bolt
- Kung Fu Panda
- WALL-E

7. Achievement in visual effects

- The Curious Case of Benjamin Button
- The Dark Knight
- Iron Man

8. Achievement in music written for motion pictures (Original score)

- The Curious Case of Benjamin Button
- Defiance
- Milk
- Slumdog Millionaire
- WALL-E

You can send in your picks by clicking on the "Post Comment" button below, or email your choices to me at TheMinskers@aol.com.

Assorted Notes

Just a few thoughts this weekend:

- My son Justin gave my lovely wife Jeanette and me a great Christmas present this year - tickets to see the Marshall Artists Series production of Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street. Unfortunately, at the last minute I wasn't able to attend, so Linda, my wife's mom, got to see the show in my place. They both said it was a terrific show, with great music, but it was somewhat creepy - which tends to happen when you're seeing a show about one of history's most famous murderers. Still, I wish I could have seen it.

- Rehearsals continue for two First Stage shows - Charlotte's Web and Alexander, Who's Not Not Not Not Not Not Going to Move. It was something of a trick this week with all the snow cancellations, but luckily there's still time to make up that lost time. Hopefully the weather will cut us a break through the end of March.

- I spent some time at the First Stage storage facility this morning, where my pal Jack Welch had a small army of volunteer dads and moms and their kids working on the "Charlotte" set. It's not often you see people actually building a barn like that! It's going to be an awesome show!

- There are several good shows coming up in the month ahead, and I'll try to post a complete list by the beginning of the week. Between rehearsals, work parties and the real world, things have been hopping for ol' Chuck lately. Bear with me while I play catch-up!

A Show for Valentine's Day - "Broadway in Love"

Here's another great suggestion for Valentine's Day:

Arts Resources for the Tri-State
In association with Bruce Rous
presents

Broadway in Love

A musical valentine of the greatest love songs from Broadway.
Songs from South Pacific, The Music Man, Guys and Dolls, Carousel and She Loves Me.

Performed by seven of the finest singers in the Tri-State, with Bruce Rous at the piano.

A four-course meal with table-side entertainment, true "dinner theatre" setting.

Served in the lovely Renaissance Ballroom.

RESERVATIONS REQUIRED.
February 13 and 14 - Wine (with Piano entertainment) begins at 6:30 p.m. ($70 per couple)
February 15 - Sunday matinee begins at 2 p.m. with Buffet-style Brunch ($15 for performance, $10 for Brunch)

ARTS - Huntington's Renaissance Center 900 8th Street. Call 304-733-ARTS for reservations.

Valentine's Day Suggestion - "Bitsy, Boots... and Ida"

Hey, if you're like me, you're always looking for good ideas for Valentine's Day - and here's one now!

Coming up later this month, the First Church Dinner Theater at the First United Methodist Church at 1124 5th Avenue in Huntington will proudly present the World Premiere of Jonathan Joy’s newest play, Bitsy, Boots... and Ida.

The show runs Friday, Feb. 13 and Saturday, Feb. 14 - and best of all, in addition to a great show, you also get a terrific dinner (and you're getting this as a personal testimonial from your pal Chuck, who certainly knows a thing or two about good food). Dinner is served at 6:30 p.m., and the show starts at 8:00 p.m.

You have a choice of entrees: Prime Rib au Jus or Glazed Cornish hen, with Tossed Salad, Baked Potato, Green Peas and Pearl Onions, Dilly Rolls and Assorted Valentine Desserts.

The cost of the dinner plus the show is: Adult - $22.00; Child under 12 - $8.00; or you can see the show only (as space permits) - $5.00.

Babysitting is available on request for all shows (advance notice required).

Reservations are required for all shows. Call: 304-522-0357 or 740-867-8576.

Best of all, the money goes to a great cause! All profits benefit the Mission and Youth of First United Methodist.

So call now! See a great show, enjoy a fine dinner, and help a good cause. What more could you ask for?

Highly recommended!

Oscar Winners - Stephen's Choices

Here's the entry from my pal Stephen V., who takes an interesting tact - instead of trying to predict how the Academy members will vote, he says:

I'm picking my favorites, not who I really think is going to win.

1. Best motion picture of the year
- Slumdog Millionaire

2. Performance by an actor in a leading role
- Frank Langella in Frost/Nixon

3. Performance by an actor in a supporting role
- Heath Ledger in The Dark Knight

4. Performance by an actress in a leading role
- Kate Winslet in The Reader

5. Performance by an actress in a supporting role
- Marisa Tomei in The Wrestler

6. Best animated feature film of the year
- WALL-E

7. Achievement in visual effects
- The Dark Knight

8. Achievement in music written for motion pictures (Original score)
- Defiance

Oscar Winners - Mark's Choices

Our Oscar contest continues with yet another entry, as my pal Mark H. emails in his choices.

Here are his predictions (with comments): 1. Best motion picture of the year
- Slumdog Millionaire (everyone jumps on the bandwagon; I guess this was the best in a mediocre year)

2. Performance by an actor in a leading role
- Sean Penn in Milk

3. Performance by an actor in a supporting role
- Heath Ledger in The Dark Knight (probably should be Hoffman, but I'll be shocked if Ledger doesn't get this posthumously)

4. Performance by an actress in a leading role
- Kate Winslet in The Reader (Oscar is ready to anoint the 'next greatest living actress' and Winslet was superb in The Reader)

5. Performance by an actress in a supporting role
- Taraji P. Henson in The Curious Case of Benjamin Button (my surprise pick. Davis was incredible in Doubt, but her part was too small to justify this award)

6. Best animated feature film of the year
- WALL-E

7. Achievement in visual effects
- The Dark Knight

8. Achievement in music written for motion pictures (Original score)
- Slumdog Millionaire (bandwagon, part deux)

On Stage This Week - "Sweeney Todd"

A terrific show hits Huntington this week - the touring Broadway version of Sweeney Todd: the Demon Barber of Fleet Street.

You can learn more about the hit musical in this story by my pal Dave Lavender. Here's an excerpt:

At the age of 19, Wendy Muir has spent much of her life practicing cello and singing.

Up until a few months ago, the University of Illinois student, who is double majoring in computer science and vocal performance, wasn't sure if all that cello time was going to do anything more than impress friends on Facebook.

Of late, her secret weapon seems to have come in handy, as Muir is playing cello and singing her way across the country performing as part of the tour of the edgy, Tony-Award-winning Stephen Sondheim-penned musical, Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street.

At 8 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 5, at the Keith-Albee Performing Arts Center, the Marshall Artists Series welcomes in the tour of the musical that goes down live on stage with 10 musicians and actors recreating the suspense of the 19th century story that stormed Broadway in 2005 and the theaters in 2007 in the Johnny Depp film.

Some tickets are available at $46 and $56.

It's a great show. Don't miss it!

Oscar Winners - Denise's Choices

My pal Denise L. sent her choices for this year's Oscar Winners as a comment, but I'll post them here for easy comparison with the other entries.

Denise will be tough to beat - she easily won our Tony Award predictions competition last year!

Here are her choices (with comments):

1. Best motion picture of the year
- Slumdog Millionaire

2. Performance by an actor in a leading role
I'm torn between Penn and Rourke but if I have to choose one I'll go with - Mickey Rourke in The Wrestler

3. Performance by an actor in a supporting role
Famous last words, but no brainer,
- Heath Ledger in The Dark Knight

4. Performance by an actress in a leading role
- Kate Winslet in The Reader

5. Performance by an actress in a supporting role
- Penélope Cruz in Vicky Cristina Barcelona

6. Best animated feature film of the year
- WALL-E

7. Achievement in visual effects
- The Dark Knight

8. Achievement in music written for motion pictures (Original score)
- Slumdog Millionaire