A Look Back at 2009

Before 2009 ends, let's take a moment to look back at some (though not all) of the great community theatre shows and performances that lit up the stage this past year!

Of course, I wasn't able to see all the shows in the Tri-State this year - I'm only one man, after all - so these are my personal highlights, and you're welcome to send along yours, gentle reader. Either click the comment button at the bottom of this post, or send an email to TheMinskers@aol.com.

My impulse is always to list these as a "Top 10" list, but that's not really fair, since I'm the president of First Stage Theatre and would naturally be inclined to put those shows at the top of the list (or not put them at the top in an attempt at being fair) - so I'll stay away from that impulse. But I will list a best performer of the year - how's that?

Let's tackle them in chronological order. Here goes:

One of the first shows I saw this year was Bitsy, Boots... and Ida, a show staged by the First United Methodist Church in February. Written by Jonathan Joy, it's the latest chapter in a series of stories about two cantankerous sisters, their visiting nephew, his fiancee, and another intrusive family member. It's was a true delight - funny, with lots of local references and clever plot twists. They're working on a new story for this February - I can't wait!

In March I saw First Stage Theatre's Charlotte's Web, a wonderful version of the classic story about a little pig and his friendship with a clever spider. I was so impressed with this production - it was outstanding in every way!

At the end of March was a show I'm totally biased about... because I was the director. Alexander, Who's Not Not Not Not Not Not Going To Move was a funny, fast-moving musical that featured a terrific, talented young cast (most of whom you'll be seeing again in the upcoming Peanuts musicals next March). I also have to give special kudos to our lone adult in the show, Travis McElroy, who played numerous parts, was hilarious in each one, and also served as a great mentor to those young actors. I'm so proud of the great job by the cast and crew!

In April Marshall's Department of Theatre presented Epic Proportions, a very funny play about the 1930s-era production of a big-budget movie in the desert, and the brothers who try to break into show business. It was very funny and featured a fantastic cast, led by Chuck Hearndon, one of the best actors (comic or otherwise) around.

Despite a hectic summer, in August I saw the Charleston Light Opera Guild's production of Rent, the beloved Broadway musical. It was an amazing production with an incredibly talented cast, terrific production values and a great soundtrack. Definitely one of the area's best productions this year. Special kudos to Ryan Hardiman and Nathan Mohebbi - they knocked it out of the park!

October featured two great shows, each at opposite ends of the scale. I Ought To Be In Pictures was presented by ARTS, and featured a small cast telling the funny story of an estranged father and the daughter who tracks him down in Hollywood. Written by Neil Simon, the show was a star turn for the wonderful Alissa Fetherolf as the daughter, Clint McElroy as the grumpy but loveable Dad, and Leann Haines as the Dad's long-suffering girlfriend. A real delight!

The other show that month was a big musical production of the classic Man of La Mancha, which is based on the book Don Quixote. It was an amazing production with stunning performances by Ryan Hardiman in the title role, Marina Jurica as Dulcinea and Mike Murdock as Sancho Panza. A top-flight production all around!

November brought First Stage Theatre's Into the Woods, the beloved Sondheim musical that combines several fairy tales into a modern tale of love and loss. Featuring an all-star cast of First Stage veterans, it was an outstanding show, and one that would also be in the running for the best show of the year (along with Rent and La Mancha) if I were playing that game.

The last show I saw this year was the one-man production of A Christmas Carol, with Jack Cirillo playing the part of Charles Dickens, who is touring the country doing readings of his famous story - but he's lost his copy of the book, so he has to recreate the story from memory, playing all the parts involved. It was an amazing show, and also in the running for the best of the year.

So I saw lots of great shows and lots of great performances. It's tough to single one out - there are so many great ones to choose from! But I have to admit that the one that impressed me the most was... Jack Cirillo's one-man version of A Christmas Carol. It was amazing to watch - masterful, involving, funny, touching - his performance covered all the bases.

Whew! A great year of shows - and those are just the ones I saw. I urge you to get out there and support your community theatre groups in 2010 - they do amazing work, the ticket prices are (relatively) cheap, and you'll see performances you'll never forget!

Oh, one more thing - Happy New Year!

Pretty As A Picture

Hey, over at my pal Thomas Marsh's blog The Drawing Board (which you can see here or by clicking the link over there on the right of the page), he shows off a cool drawing he did to illustrate the recent Symphony performance at the Keith-Albee Performing Arts Center.

Pay it a visit and check out the drawing of Marina Jurica, Kimo Furumoto and my pal Ryan Hardiman. It's awesome!

Actors Needed To Bring History To Life

In the holiday crunch I forgot to post this, sent along by my pal Amy - it's of interest to actors out there, especially those with an interest in history - but you'll have to hurry, the deadline is just a day away:

The West Virginia Humanities Council is seeking applications from individuals interested in portraying historical figures as part of the council's popular History Alive! program, according to a release.

Historically significant people no longer living from any period are eligible for consideration.

The humanities council is particularly interested in proposals for characters related to the Civil War and West Virginia statehood, such as "Stonewall" Jackson, John Brown, Francis Pierpont, Arthur Boreman and others.

The application deadline is Jan. 1, 2010. Those chosen receive a stipend to support research to develop the proposed character. Proposals are limited to two potential characters per applicant and must be for portrayal of an actual person. Potential presenters must pass an audition. Selected presenters will join the History Alive! roster effective Nov. 1, 2010, for a minimum two-year period.

Each year, approximately 200 History Alive! presentations are given for schools, libraries, civic groups, historical societies and a wide range of public gatherings across West Virginia.

To apply, contact program officer Mark Payne at 304-346-8500 or payne@wvhumanities.org.

A Flood of Support for ARTS

Over the weekend the music group The 1937 Flood performed at the Renaissance Arts Center for the ARTS annual fundraiser in the center's ballroom at the old Huntington High School.

You can check out some excellent photos right here in the Herald-Dispatch photo gallery by photographer Mark Webb (here's a sample photo), and you can read more about it in this story by my pal Jean Tarbett.

The 1937 Flood is a popular country/bluegrass band. It has performed for the ARTS fundraiser several times.

Biggest Theatre Stories of 2009

Hope everyone had (or is having) a great holiday!

I'm still noodling on my own list of the best shows and performances from 2009, but you can find a list of the top theatre stories from Broadway right here at Playbill's website.

Here's a sample - their top story is about the surge of film stars into Broadway shows:

Stars sell tickets. That's been conventional wisdom along Broadway since the days of Eva Tanguay. This year, however, it seems that only stars could sell tickets. Film stars, specifically. To recession-battered ticketbuyers, only the name about the title was a trustable quantity. Reviews of Blithe Spirit were mixed; but it had Rupert Everett and Angela Lansbury and recouped. Reviewers were unimpressed with A Steady Rain, but, thanks to stars Hugh Jackman and Daniel Craig, the box office was minting money.

Must Be Santa!

Merry Christmas, everyone!

For our final holiday video, here's a new one - and already one of my all-time favorites. It's none other than Bob Dylan singing "Must Be Santa" in one of the wildest, most frenetic videos ever. Enjoy!

Santa Claus is Coming to Town

Here's another fun video for you - Bruce Springsteen (wearing a nifty Christmas hat) and the E Street Band singing "Santa Claus is Coming to Town."

By the way, there's nobody better in a live concert that The Boss. I'm just sayin' is all.

A Carpenters Christmas

Here's another holiday video for you, gentle readers. This one features one of the great voices in music, Karen Carpenter, singing an arrangement by her brother Richard of "Merry Christmas, Darling."

All I Want for Christmas...

Hey, the holidays are closing in, so for the next week I'll be posting some daily holiday music clips for your enjoyment and otherwise taking a break here.

We'll be back at work next week presenting some Year-In-Review lists - in the meantime, enjoy the music and have a great holiday season!

Let's start with a local girl who's done quite well for herself - Miley Cyrus, singing one of my favorite new holiday songs, "All I Want for Christmas is You."

Merry Christmas, y'all!

5th Avenue Theatre Announces 2010 Season

My pal Eddie Harbert sends along this announcement (thanks, Eddie!):

Just when we thought we had our season planned, 5th Avenue Theatre company has added another show. The 2010 Season will begin with Camelot April 23 - 25 and April 30 - May 1 with a school performance on Thursday, April 29. Tickets for the show are $12.00 for adults and $10.00 for children. Auditions for this show will be held on Sunday, Feb. 21 at 2:00 p.m. at the Jean C. Stephenson Auditorium in City Hall.

We have added a fall show to the season as well. Steel Magnolias will be presented Sept. 17 - 19 and 24 - 26. This show will be directed by Zach Davis who will be making his directoral debut. Tickets for the show are $10.00 for adults and $8.00 for children.

5th Avenue will close the season with the blockbuster show White Christmas. Dates for the show are Dec. 3 - 5 and 10 - 12 with a school performance on Thursday, Dec. 9. Tickets for the show are $15.00 for adults and $12.00 for children. 5th Avenue Theatre is pleased to be one of the first community theatre companies to be given the rights to do White Christmas. It is sure to be a crowd pleaser. Auditions for this show will be held at 2:00 p.m. Aug. 1 at the Jean C. Carlo Auditorium in City Hall.

For the first time ever, 5th Avenue Theatre Company will be selling Season Tickets for the 2010 Season. The price for the Season Ticket is $30.00 for all three shows, which is a discount of almost 20 percent off individual tickets. Season Tickets will go on sale beginning Feb. 1 and will be available until April 1.

For more information about Season Tickets, auditions, or to volunteer to help with a show, please call 304-696-5522.

Kudos to Zach!

Congratulations to our pal Zach Davis, who often comments here - he's getting ready to tackle his first show as a director!

He'll be handling a show-yet-to-be-named for the 5th Avenue Theatre Company.

We're looking forward to hearing more about it, Zach!

Where did I hear this news? On Twitter, of course. If you're into the whole Twitter thing (and who isn't?), you can follow this blog right here: http://twitter.com/chuckminsker.

I'd say "Tell 'em Chuck sent you," but that would be silly.

Winding Down to the End of 2009

A friend in Asheville, N.C., says they have a foot of snow on the ground right now. Looks like we're going to get a blast of snow this weekend in the Tri-State area, but hopefully nothing that severe.

As 2009 winds down, I'm working on some "Year in Review" lists, which we'll roll out the last week of the year. (No plans to attempt a "Decade's Best Shows," but maybe I'll change my mind.) I plan to name some of the best actors of the past year and my own picks for the year's best shows.

As always, gentle readers, if you have comments about your favorites (especially since I wasn't able to see all the shows this year), feel free to make a comment at the link below, or email it to me at TheMinskers@aol.com and I'll post it here.

Stay warm and drive carefully, y'all!

A Concert and a Cool Christmas Gift

There were a couple of good stories in today's edition of the Herald-Dispatch of interest to theatre fans.

- My pal Dave Lavender wrote an article about Saturday's Huntington Symphony concert at the Keith-Albee. You can read it here, and here's an excerpt:

This holiday Kimo Furumoto is running on an equal fuel blend of holly and jolly.

Come Saturday, Dec. 19, maestro Furumoto and the Huntington Symphony Orchestra will spread musical Christmas cheer in the historic Keith-Albee Performing Arts Center as they present the orchestra's Holiday Spectacular at 8 p.m.

Tickets are $18 to $31.

Furumoto said the orchestra is excited to share the holidays with many of the vocalists who've been featured with the symphony in years past including Randall Reid-Smith, Marina Jurica, Ryan Hardiman, the Ironton Varsity Singers, as well as Furumoto's wife, Linda Leyrer.

"We have had so many different singers over the years like Marina and Ryan and Randall Reid-Smith, and now we are bringing them all together and really celebrating all of these wonderful songs we love to hear, both the traditional ones and the ones that are yearly favorites this time of year. We really picked things that would be great for the different singers. They are all unique in their own way and I am really hoping to shine a light on what their niche in singing really is. Having all four of them we are having each of them with their own moment of glory in the program, so we're excited to hear all of them."

Just a few of the selections include Reid-Smith, the celebrated tenor singing, "O' Holy Night," the Ironton Varsity Singers on "Joy to the World," Leyrer singing "Gesu Bambino," by Pietro Yon, Hardiman singing "O Little Town of Bethlehem," and Jurica singing "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas."

To purchase tickets, call 304-781-8343, or stop by the HSO administrative offices at 763 3rd Ave., or www.huntingtonsymphony.org.

- If you're looking for the perfect holiday gift, the Marshall Artists Series has a great suggestion:

The Holiday season is here so give the gift that will last a lifetime: the gift of the arts!

Great tickets are still available for all Marshall Artists Series performances. Kicking off the season Feb. 8 and 9 at 7:30 p.m. at the Keith-Albee Performing Arts Center. Cabell Huntington Hospital brings you Andrew Lloyd Webber’s CATS. Based on T.S. Eliot’s Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats, and with music by Andrew Lloyd Webber, CATS won seven 1983 Tony Awards including Best Musical, Best Book of a Musical, Best Lighting and Best Costumes. There’s no better way to introduce your family to the wonders of live theatre than with the magic, the mystery, the memory of CATS!

Then on Feb. 23, at 8 p.m. spend An Evening with Lucille Ball in Thank You For Asking at the Keith-Albee Performing Arts Center. Join Lucy as she guides us through a lifetime of personal memories inspiring her timeless sketches on I Love Lucy, her 30-year television career and never-before heard personal recollections about her tempestuous and complicated marriage to Cuban bandleader turned impresario, Desi Arnaz. It’s the Lucy the whole world loved – from "Ricardo" to "Mame" – but, more importantly, it’s an evening with the REAL Lucy, as you’ve never seen her before. Produced by Lucie Arnaz.

St. Mary’s Medical Center and HIMG bring Mozart’s masterpiece Don Giovanni, live with a 30-piece world-class orchestra to the Keith-Albee Performing Arts Center on March 15 at 8 p.m. Hailed by many as the greatest of all operas, Mozart's Don Giovanni is based on the true-life escapades of Don Juan of Seville, an aristocratic lothario who lived during the 1600s. The full-scale production features beautiful sets and costumes and a cast of soloists who are excellent actors as well as first-class singers.

Closing out the season, Beford Auto presents Michael Flatley’s Lord of the Dance April 22, at 7:30 p.m. at the Keith-Albee Performing Arts Center. Described by the New York Post as "fascinating, rewarding and above all, entertaining," and by the Los Angeles Times as "a showpiece extravaganza," Lord of the Dance is a mesmerizing blend of traditional and modern Celtic music and dance. The story is based upon mythical Irish folklore as Don Dorcha, Lord of Darkness, challenges the ethereal lord of light, the Lord of the Dance. Battle lines are drawn, passions ignite and a love story fueled by the dramatic leaps and turns of dancers’ bodies begins to build against a backdrop of Celtic rhythm. The action is played out over 21 scenes on a grand scale of precision dancing, dramatic music, colorful costumes and state-of-the-art staging and lighting.

It’s not too late. Still looking for that perfect gift they’ll remember for a lifetime? The Marshall Artists Series has your ticket. Tickets for all shows are on sale now, and may be purchased at The Marshall Artists Series Box Office, located in the Joan C. Edwards Playhouse, open Monday — Friday, noon — 5 p.m. Or call the Box Office at 304-696-6656, or 304-523-5757. Adults tickets range from $45-$55 and Youth may receive a 20 percent discount. Tickets can be purchased on-line at www.marshallartistsseries.org, or www.ticketmaster.com.

Not a (Theatrical) Creature Was Stirring...

Ah, it's the time of year when the local stages grow dark as everyone takes a break to enjoy the holiday season.

There is one show coming up, but it's not a stage show - it's a concert this Saturday at the Keith-Albee Performing Arts Center - you can read all about it right here.

But not to worry, there's still lots to talk about! Coming up in the days ahead we'll look at the shows coming up in 2010, we'll talk about why that year is a big milestone for a local theatre group, and we'll look back at the best shows from 2009!

So stay warm, enjoy the holidays, and keep checking in for the latest here at the Tri-State Theatre blog!

The Cast of "Peanutsapalooza"

From the First Stage Theatre website, here's the cast list for the two shows that are, together, being called Peanutsapalooza:

You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown

Charlie Brown – Levi Kelley
Lucy – Hannah Stevenson
Snoopy – Kate Colclough
Linus- Justin Hesson
Sally – Meg Riley
Schroeder – Elijah Boyles
Woodstock – Rebecca Craig

Snoopy the Musical

Snoopy – Kristin Caviani
Charlie Brown – Chad Arthur
Lucy – Meg Barber
Peppermint Patty – Elizabeth Schmitz
Linus – Samuel Collins
Sally – Leslie Paige Collins
Woodstock – Rileigh Smirl

BASEBALL PLAYERS, TRICK OR TREATERS, MOVIE GOERS, CLOUDS, BLANKETS, PUPPIES, BIRDS, SCHOOL KIDS (Both shows)

Emily Bannon
Clarke Betz
William Beverage
Kacey Blatt
Kathryn Booth
Sarah Bryan
Ian Carlton
Salem Carlton
Rose Colclough
Catherine Dennison
Maggie Donahoe
Nathaniel Fornash
Drew Goodall
Kadin Gould
Madalein Jackson
Sarena Johnson
Taranee Karimpour
Kennedy Magner
Kylie Magner
Ryan McGuffin
Nathaniel Porter
Allison Riley
Natalie Riley
Bailey Sanders
Holly Smith
Andrea Steele
Abigail Turner
Emily Underwood
Annie Wolfe
Samantha Young

Lots of great talent there - I can't wait to see these shows!

Holiday Concert at the Keith-Albee

Here's a holiday show you'll want to mark on your calendar - a holiday concert at Huntington's premiere theatre next weekend!

You may not know that WSAZ-TV's meteorologist Marina Jurica is also a terrific singer. You'll get the chance to hear her and my pal Ryan Hardiman (who's also an amazing singer) at this concert - she sent this email with all the information:

Ryan and I are singing in a really great holiday concert with the Huntington Symphony Orchestra on Saturday, Dec. 19 at 8 p.m. at the Keith Albee Theater in Huntington.

It is going to be a really fun concert with standards and favorites! You can get tickets by calling 304-781-8343 or online at huntingtonsymphony.org.

It will be a great event for the whole family, so I hope to see you there!

Auditions in Portsmouth for "Damn Yankees"

It's the time of year for auditions!

As proof, my pal Mark sends along this notice:

Portsmouth Little Theatre will hold open auditions for this spring's musical, Damn Yankees at 8 p.m. on Dec. 14 and 15 at the theatre, 1117 Lawson Street.

Those interested should come with a prepared Broadway musical number.

Damn Yankees will be directed by Eric Armstrong with musical direction by Linda Tieman.

Final Day for Peanuts Auditions

Today's the last day for young people to audition for two musicals based on the Peanuts comic strip.

Here's the info:

The First Stage Theatre Company will hold auditions Sunday, Dec. 13 for two musicals based on the beloved comic strip Peanuts. Auditions for You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown and Snoopy!!! will be held Sunday, Dec. 13 from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. at the Pea Ridge United Methodist Church at 5747 E. Pea Ridge Road in Huntington.

Casting is available for young actors in grades 3-12. There are multiple parts with all different varieties of skills.

Those auditioning will be provided scripts to read aloud. Performers should be prepared to sing a 30-second song selection. There will be a pianist, or performers may use an accompaniment tape or CD (with no vocals). Performers will also be taught a short dance, so please wear comfortable clothing and appropriate shoes.

The musical You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown was the first production ever staged by First Stage Theatre in 1990, and it was last presented on the organization’s 10th anniversary in 2000. This production is part of the group’s 20th Anniversary celebration.

The show is based on the popular Charles M. Schulz comic strip, and includes Charlie Brown, Snoopy, Lucy, Linus, Schroeder, Sally and Pigpen. The musical Snoopy!!! is the musical sequel, and offers more adventures of the Peanuts gang.

You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown and Snoopy!!! will be performed March 18-21 and March 25-28, 2010 at the Jean Carlo Stephenson Auditorium located in Huntington’s City Hall. For more information, call 304-416-KIDS (5437).

The First Stage Theatre Company is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing an educational, developmental experience for young people through the performing arts.

These are great shows - I can't wait to see them!

One More Chance to Catch "A Christmas Carol" at Marshall!

For some reason, Saturday evening's performance of A Christmas Carol at Marshall University didn't get mentioned in any of the publicity that I've seen (including my posts here).

Don't let that fool you - there's one more show Saturday evening at 8 p.m. at Marshall University's Joan C. Edwards Performing Arts Center, and I recommend it highly!

My pal C.E. called me Friday afternoon and suggested we see the show, so we joined the large crowd at last night's performance of the one-man show by Jack Cirillo.

What a terrific performance! I should admit right up front that I've been feeling a bit burned out on A Christmas Carol - I've seen the stage show at least once a year for I don't know how many years, in addition to numerous movie versions. I was ready to take a break from it - but I had heard great things about this version, and was happy to check it out.

Am I glad I did! Cirillo plays the part of Charles Dickens, who is on a reading tour of the United States. There's just one problem - his luggage has been misdirected, so he can't do a reading. Instead, he recites the story from memory, acting out all the parts and bringing new life to the beloved classic.

It's very much a one-man show - the only supporting elements are a modest set, an outstanding costume and makeup, some understated lighting effects and a few sound cues.

The rest, including all the characters, their individual voices and dialects, the scene descriptions, the action depicted - all comes from a powerful performance by an amazing actor.

You'll be moved to tears, you'll laugh, and you'll be throughly entertained by this amazing show.

Saturday night's your last chance to see it. I wouldn't miss it if I were you.

Highly, highly recommended!

Cast Announced for "I Love You...You're Perfect...Now Change"

My pal Eddie Harbert is directing the musical I Love You...You're Perfect...Now Change, and sends along this announcement:

I wanted to make sure that you were the first one to get the announcement of the cast for I Love You...You're Perfect...Now Change.

The show is performed with an ensemble cast in a show that is done through a series of vignettes (sort of like Saturday Night Live with songs!).

The ensemble includes: Jane Modlin, Dave Benton, Mary Olson, Mark Baker, Betty Craddock, Ron Short, Jennifer Scott and Josh Taylor.

The story explores the ups-and-downs, joys, sorrows, frustrations and comedy of relationships. The actors will take the audience through the dating, marriage, children, divorce, empty-nest syndrome, mid-life crisis and golden years that make up our relationships.

The show will be done in a cabaret-style setting. Dinner theatre tickets as well as general admission for the show will be sold. It is the perfect pre-Valentine show for couples, both married and unmarried.

Dates for the show are January 29-31 and February 5-7. All performances will be held in the ballroom at the Renaissance Center. More information will be forthcoming in the near future.

Thanks, Eddie! A great cast and a terrific show - can't wait to see it!

On Stage This Weekend - Three Holiday Shows

You have three great shows to choose from this week, and two of them start tonight! Here's the rundown:

- A Christmas Carol - Presented by the Marshall Theatre Alliance, this unique, one-man version of the Christmas classic starring Jack Cirillo takes the stage Dec. 10 and 11 at 8 p.m. at the Playhouse at the Joan C. Edwards Performing Arts Center.

- Underneath the Lintel - Presented by the Charleston Stage Company at the Capitol Center Theatre, 123 Summers Street in Charleston, Dec. 10, 11 and 12 at 7:30 p.m. Written by Glen Berger, it tells the story of a reclusive Dutch librarian whose mundane life is transformed when a book is returned in the overnight slot 123 years overdue. Notes scribbled in the margins of the book lead to clue after clue that compel the librarian on a world-wide quest for the mysterious borrower and the meaning of life. Don't miss this memorable one-man show. Joe Miller plays the librarian. Geoff Coward directs.

- Ebenezer Junior - Presented by the Children's Theatre of Charleston at the Charleston Civic Center Little Theatre Dec. 11 and 12 at 7:00 p.m. and Dec. 12 and 13 at 2:00 p.m. The beloved classic of the miserly Scrooge who hates anything having to do with Christmas, comes alive with catchy new songs. The score features a wealth of musical styles including Rock ‘n Roll, Blues, Rap and Ballads. Scrooge, Bob Cratchit, Fred, the Ghosts and, of course, Tiny Tim all interweave with a large cast and choir in this version by Malcolm Sircom.

Check 'em out!

Upcoming Christmas Concerts

Hey, a mysterious email brings with it this information about some upcoming Christmas concerts:

- The award-winning Grand Champion Cabell Midland H.S. Marching Knights will present their annual Christmas Concert Thursday, Dec. 10, 2009, at 7:00 p.m. in the school auditorium. The band will be performing songs for the season. The Cabell-Midland Jazz Band will also perform that same evening. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. and the concert is free and open to the public.

- The Cabell-Midland and Huntington High Orchestras will combine to perform their annual Christmas Concert on Friday, Dec. 18, 2009, in the Huntington High Auditorium. The orchestra will be performing festive Holiday music. The concert is at 7:00 p.m. The doors open at 6:30 p.m. and is free and open to the public.

- The Tri-State Youth Orchestra will be presenting their annual Christmas Concert on Sunday, Dec. 13, 2009, in the Ballroom of ARTS Renaissance Center. The orchestra will be performing music for the season. Admission is $5, children under 12 free. The doors open at 7:30 p.m.

Check 'em out, music lovers!

The Dickens You Say!

OK, I admit it's a terrible title for this post - but the show it represents is awesome!

You can read all about it in this story by Beth Hendricks in the Herald-Dispatch:

It's a solitary Christmas show Scrooge himself would appreciate.

A one-man presentation of Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol, adapted by Greg Oliver Bodine, will be presented by Marshall University professor of theater, Jack Cirillo.

Showtimes are 8 p.m. nightly Dec. 10 and 11 at the Joan C. Edwards Performing Arts Center.

"Christmas Carol came about this time last year, we were talking about two things. One, how can we present faculty work on a more regular basis? The department chair, Julie Jackson, was eager for me to find something I wanted to do acting-wise," Cirillo said.

"Two, we were looking to create an annual benefit, one of our shows that would directly benefit the students. What we want to do is create a library within our building of play scripts. The main library doesn't have a theater section, per se. This would allow us a little more control to the access of play scripts. The goal is to have something put together by spring.

"So, we have a nice holiday event and it's for a terrific cause."

The one-man show Cirillo said has become a "very solitary activity" is an adaptation of Dicken's novella. In researching the piece, Cirillo said he discovered that Dickens himself did two reading tours in America in the 1800s, bringing a condensed version of his stories. The show, which runs approximately an hour and 15 minutes, was one Cirillo saw acted by Patrick Stewart in the late 1980s.

"It's performed from memory, 42 pages of dialogue, in full regalia and complete prosthetic makeup. When I saw Patrick Stewart do it, I was just blown away. With just a very few props and costuming, I want young people to see that theater can be powerful, engaging and moving, even without the bells and whistles. The power of one action with great language, embodying a character, can be astounding," Cirillo offered.

Tickets are $12 for adults and $5 for children. Call 304-696-2787 for tickets or additional information.

A Different Version of "A Christmas Carol"

Hey, coming up soon to Marshall University's stage is a different version of a holiday classic.

Here's the basic information listed on Marshall's website:

A Christmas Carol will be presented by the Marshall Theatre Alliance Dec. 10 and 11 at 8 p.m. at the Playhouse at the Joan C. Edwards Performing Arts Center.

I ran into my pal Clint McElroy this evening and he tells me that this is a special one-man performance of the show by my pal Jack Cirillo. (It's nice to have so many talented friends.)

Jack plays the part of Charles Dickens, who reenacts his classic story from memory, providing all the voices and characters. Jack's an outstanding actor, and I'm really looking forward to seeing his performance.

Highly recommended!

Next Weekend - "Peanuts" Auditions

Here's another audition notice for young performers - next weekend auditions will be held in Huntington for two musicals based on the comic strip Peanuts!

Here's the info:

The First Stage Theatre Company will hold auditions Dec. 12 and 13, 2009, for two musicals based on the beloved comic strip Peanuts. Auditions for You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown and Snoopy!!! will be held Saturday, Dec. 12, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., and Sunday, Dec. 13 from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. at the Pea Ridge United Methodist Church at 5747 E. Pea Ridge Road in Huntington.

Casting is available for young actors in grades 3-12. There are multiple parts with all different varieties of skills.

Those auditioning will be provided scripts to read aloud. Performers should be prepared to sing a 30-second song selection. There will be a pianist, but performers may use an accompaniment tape or CD (with no vocals). Performers will also be taught a short dance, so please wear comfortable clothing and appropriate shoes.

The musical You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown was the first production ever staged by First Stage Theatre in 1990, and it was last presented on the organization’s 10th anniversary in 2000. This production is part of the group’s 20th Anniversary celebration.

The show is based on the popular Charles M. Schulz comic strip, and includes Charlie Brown, Snoopy, Lucy, Linus, Schroeder, Sally and Pigpen. The musical Snoopy!!! is the musical sequel, and offers more adventures of the Peanuts gang.

You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown and Snoopy!!! will be performed March 18-21 and March 25-28, 2010 at the Jean Carlo Stephenson Auditorium located in Huntington’s City Hall. For more information, call 304-416-KIDS (5437)

The First Stage Theatre Company is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing an educational, developmental experience for young people through the performing arts.

Looking for Actresses with "True Grit"

Thanks to my pals Jon and Mike for pointing out this story from the Associated Press:

The makers of the upcoming True Grit remake are bringing their search for someone to play the role of Mattie Ross to West Virginia.

The Casting Office says auditions will be held from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday at the Hampton Inn in Charleston.

Paramount Pictures and The Coen Brothers are looking for a 12-year-old to 16-year-old Caucasian girl.

The Casting Office says they want a girl who is “tough, strong and tells it like is” to play the 14-year-old Mattie.

Kim Darby played Mattie in the 1969 original.

Sounds like a great opportunity for a young actress - so if you're interested (or know of a young actress who might be interested), pass this along!

On Stage This Weekend - Scrooge, Santa and MARY

There are three holiday shows hitting the stage this weekend in a theater near you! Here's the rundown:

- A Christmas Carol: Scrooge and Marley - Presented by Ashland Community and Technical College at 1400 College Drive in Ashland, Ky. Performances are Thursday - Sunday, Dec. 3 - 6.

- MARY - Presented by the Contemporary Youth Arts Company. This is the 13th annual production of the Mark Scarpelli - Dan Kehde musical. It takes the stage Dec. 3, 4 and 5 at 8 p.m. at the WVSU Capitol Center Theater, 123 Summer Street, Charleston. It tells the story of the nine months prior to the birth of Jesus Christ, as seen through the eyes of a young girl destined to be the most important woman in the Christian tradition.

- Miracle on 34th Street - Presented by the Kanawha Players at the Civic Center Little Theatre Dec. 3-5 at 8 p.m. and Dec. 6 at 2 p.m. When a white-bearded gentleman claims to be the real Santa Claus he brings about a genuine miracle, spreading a wave of love throughout New York City, convincing a divorced, cynical single mother, her somber daughter, and the entire state of New York that Santa Claus is no myth.

So get a jump on Christmas and check out these shows!

Improv Comedy This Weekend

My pal Tony Slack sends along this note about this weekend's improv comedy performance in South Charleston:

Just a reminder that the No Pants Players will have their annual holiday "Joytacular" this Friday and Saturday, Dec. 4 and 5 at 8 p.m.

The shows will be all improv comedy, with plenty of holiday-themed cheer! Also, for the fourth year in a row the troupe will be holding their annual "Pants Drive" clothing drive to benefit Covenant House of Charleston.

To be a part of this great charity event, all you have to do is bring a new clothing item to the show. For each item you donate, you will be entered into a drawing to win great prizes each night, including a nightly grand prize that includes a night's stay at Charleston House Holiday Inn with breakfast at First Watch! Other prizes include gift certificates to Calvin Broyles Jewelers and Hooters Restaurant.

So, come out and support local families in need, and maybe win a cool prize in return! As always the shows will be held at the Labelle Theater, 311 D Street in South Charleston, just behind the mound. Tickets are still only $6 each. Concessions and No Pants Merchandise will be available, including for the first time, fresh, hot, coffee!

If you any questions about the shows or you would like to reserve seats, please call 1-877-IMPROV9. The troupe would like to thank everyone for all their support in making 2009 our most successful season to date.

Hope to see everyone next week-end, and have a Merry Christmas!

Shows On Stage in December

Surprisingly enough, all the shows this month seem to have a holiday flavor (with one exception). Here's the list - as always, gentle readers, let me know if I've missed one:

- A Christmas Carol: Scrooge and Marley - Presented by Ashland Community and Technical College at 1400 College Drive in Ashland, Ky. Performances are Thursday - Sunday, Dec. 3 - 6. The co-directors are Sam Butler and Brian Cook. Musical director: Max Jackson.

- MARY - Presented by the Contemporary Youth Arts Company. This is the 13th annual production of the Mark Scarpelli-Dan Kehde musical. It takes the stage Dec. 3, 4 and 5 at 8 p.m. at the WVSU Capitol Center Theater, 123 Summer Street, Charleston. It tells the story of the nine months prior to the birth of Jesus Christ, as seen through the eyes of a young girl destined to be the most important woman in the Christian tradition. The show has become a family-friendly holiday tradition throughout the greater Charleston area.

- Miracle on 34th Street - Presented by the Kanawha Players at the Civic Center Little Theatre Dec. 3-5 at 8 p.m. and Dec. 6 at 2 p.m. When a white-bearded gentleman claims to be the real Santa Claus he brings about a genuine miracle, spreading a wave of love throughout New York City, convincing a divorced, cynical single mother, her somber daughter, and the entire state of New York that Santa Claus is no myth.

- A Christmas Carol - Presented by the Marshall Theatre Alliance, the Christmas classic will take the stage Dec. 10 and 11 at 8 p.m. at the Playhouse at the Joan C. Edwards Performing Arts Center.

- Underneath the Lintel - Presented by the Charleston Stage Company at the Capitol Center Theatre, 123 Summers Street in Charleston, Thursday-Saturday, December 10, 11 and 12 at 7:30 p.m. Written by Glen Berger, it tells the story of a reclusive Dutch librarian, whose mundane little life is transformed when a book is returned in the overnight slot 123 years overdue. Notes scribbled in the margins of the book lead to clue after clue that compel the librarian on a world wide quest for the mysterious borrower... and the meaning of life. Don't miss this memorable one-man show. Joe Miller plays the librarian. Geoff Coward directs.

- Ebenezer Junior - Presented by the Children's Theatre of Charleston at the Charleston Civic Center Little Theatre Dec. 11 and 12 at 7:00 p.m. and Dec. 12 and 13 at 2:00 p.m. The beloved classic of the miserly Scrooge who hates anything having to do with Christmas, comes alive with catchy new songs. The score features a wealth of musical styles including Rock ‘n Roll, Blues, Rap and Ballads. Scrooge, Bob Cratchit, Fred, the Ghosts and, of course, Tiny Tim all interweave with a large cast and choir in this version by Malcolm Sircom.