Purple Rose Theater Offering Winter Classes

Interested in getting some top-notch instruction from professionals close to home. Check out this article about classes being offering this winter at the Purple Rose Theater in Chelsea. Highly recommended!

NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR 5TH ANNUAL YOUTH SINGING COMPETITION

Want to prove to Jackson that you can sing?  Center Stage Jackson – Jackson’s community theatre group - is hosting the Fifth Annual Youth Singing Competition for 13 years old up through 12^th grade on Friday, January 18, 2013 and for young people through 12 years old on Saturday, January 19, 2013.  The competition will be held in the Michigan Theatre of Jackson, 124 N. Mechanic St., Jackson, MI. Performing fee is $20 whether for an individual or a group.  There will be cash prizes for the top performers or acts in each age group!

Participation is on a first come – first serve basis and the number of participants is limited.

The entrance form, guidelines and judging criteria are available online at centerstagejackson.org or call Amie Pierce at 517-769-4802 and have them mailed. But don’t delay! The postmark deadline for entries is Friday, January 11, 2013. Back up CDs may be dropped off at Michigan Theater by Friday, January 11th or a $5 fee will be assessed on the night of the event, however, no application or fees will be accepted at this location. (If all slots are not filled, it may be possible to register at the door for $25.)

Come out to see the show and support our young people!  Admission fee for spectators is $5 with no additional charge for entrants.

Doors open at 6:30 pm and the competition begins at 7:30pm. The purpose of this competition is to have a great time chasing away the winter doldrums while giving students the opportunity to show off their vocal talent.

Master of Ceremonies is Connor Pierce, a junior at Jackson High School. Carly Brake, a sophomore at Lumen Christi and previous winner of the event, will be co-hosting.

Center Stage Jackson is Jackson’s community theatre group.  Formed in 2001 when Jackson Civic Theatre and Clark Lake Players merged, Center Stage Jackson is a non-profit production company dedicated to presenting quality theatrical productions in the Greater Jackson, Michigan area, performing at Jackson Community College, a proud sponsor of CSJ, located at 2111 Emmons Road, Jackson, Michigan, and other venues in the Jackson area.  For more details please visit www.centerstagejackson.org.

 

Christmas in the City 2012

Date/Time:                        December 14, 21 and 22, 2012, 8:00 p.m.

Location:                           The Michigan Theatre

Address:                           124 N. Mechanic Street, Jackson, MI

Ticket Price:                      $20/person

Call:                                  517-783-0962

Participants:   Roxanne Bruner, Kerrie Manders,Justin Marcero, Kent Marcum,   Lori Pelham, Sandy Sykes, Allen Tuttle and Sherra Zuck

                                       

7^th Smash Year!  Embrace the spirit of the season in a fun and festive cabaret-type setting.  You won’t want to miss this entertaining evening with your favorite holiday classics and always some fun surprises! 

All A-Merry-Can Christmas Returns - Needs Performers!

Croswell Opera House Presents. . .

Get a FREE participation pack 

for Grease Sign-A-Long

Get your tickets for Grease between now and end of day Thursday, November 9 and you will get a FREE participation pack!  See this timeless classic on the big screen.  Come in costume ready to sing the hits from this movie favorite!

Click here for more details.

Stratford Changes Name and Logo

Old logo above /  New logo below courtesy Keith Tomasek

THE KING AND I Radio Ad

THE KING AND I Opens November 2nd

RESERVATIONS 517-782-8473

Encore Theatre (Dexter) Auditions

Interested in auditioning for the Encore Musical Theatre in Dexter, Michigan? Click HERE for more details.

SPECIAL DEAL from The Purple Rose Theater

$20 Tickets to SUPERIOR DONUTS by Tracy Letts.

Wednesday, October 17 at 8PM  Good for up to 4 tickets, may not be combined with other discounts. Mention code: SD-20W when ordering. 

GET TICKETS NOW or call 734.433.7673

Read my review HERE.

Something Wicked This Way Comes - Oct. 5, 2012

Thirteenth Season Opener - STEPPING OUT

Center Stage Jackson is pleased to announce the opening of its thirteenth season with Richard Harris’ comedy “Stepping Out,” to be performed September 21-23 and 28-30, 2012 in the Baughman Theatre, Potter Center, at Jackson Community College.  Curtain times are 8:00 p.m. on Friday and Saturday Performances, 3:00 p.m. on Sundays.

 

Reservations can be made by calling 517-782-8473 (Addison Awning).  General Admission: $15 adults; $12, ages 12 and younger (ticket price includes $1 JCC restoration fee). 

 

The cast is:  Jen Ann Guy, Alaina Kerr, Stephanie Klomsten, Antoinette LaCinski, Barbara Palmer, Brandy Piggott, Kristi Tilford, Sydney Topa, Nicole Woods, and Del Belcher.

Artistic Director is Julie Klee, with Choreography by Ginger McNetton. Producer is Theresa Fifelski, Technical Director is Richard Fifelski and Stage Manager is Katie Meyers.

 

 

Two Upcoming Events at the Ella!

Ella: The Life of Ella Sharp, a play by Ann Green will be read on Saturday, September 15th at 2 pm in the Community Room. There is no charge. Directed by Sandy DiCesare, the cast includes Chelsea Denig, Elliot Hitt, Deborah Herbert, Chuck Thor, and Ann Holt.

Opening on October 6th and running through January 5th of next year, is an exhibit called History of Theater in Jackson, curated by Gerry Blanchard, which will include photos and historical objects.

Lansing's Riverwalk presents. . .SPRING AWAKENING

Winner of eight Tony awards, including Best Musical, this rock musical celebrates the unforgettable journey from youth to adulthood with a power, poignancy and passion you will never forget with two of Jackson's talented performers - Adam Woolsey and Carly Jacobs!

Rated R for adult language and content.
September 13-16 & 20-23
7 pm Thursdays; 8 pm Fridays/Saturdays; 2 pm Sundays
$20 ($18 student/senior/military)
RESERVATIONS 482-5700 or RiverwalkTheatre.com
228 Museum Dr., south off Mich. Ave., across from the Lansing Center

Auditions Continue for THE KING AND I

Center Stage Jackson Announces Open Auditions For

“The King and I”

August 26, 27, 29, and 30, 2012

 

Center Stage Jackson–Jackson’s community theatre group-is holding open auditions for Rodgers& Hammerstein’s beloved musical, “The King and I,” to be directed by Denise Weber (director of “White Christmas, the Musical,” and “Little Shop of Horrors”).  Technical Director is Dean Weber with Vocal Direction by Bradley Jayne.  Max Waagner is Producer.  The show will be performed at JCC’s Baughman Theatre November 2, 3, 4 and 9, 10, 11, 2012.

 

GO TO THE CSJ WEBSITE FOR MORE DETAILS. CLICK HERE.

Croswell Opera House Announces Auditions

The Croswell in Adrian, Michigan will hold auditions for two of their upcoming musical productions. Auditions for The Rocky Horror Show and Miracle on 34^th Street will take place on Saturday, September 8 from 1o:00am – 2:00pm and Monday, September 10 from 7:00pm – 9:00pm. An additional opportunity to audition for Miracle on 34^th Street only takes place Saturday, September 15 from 10am – 2:00pm. Click HERE for more information.

The Croswell is located at 129 E. Maumee Street in Adrian, Michigan. For directions, or additional information about the auditions, please visit www.croswell.org, or call the Croswell at (517) 263-6868. For tickets to any of the productions, please call the Croswell box office at (517) 264-SHOW, visit the website, or stop in the theatre.

Great Lansing Ubiquitous Theatre

Here's a new website recently brought to my attention that concerns theatre matters in the Greater Lansing area. It's been added to the side bar as well. Greater Lansing Ubiquitous Theatre or G.L.U.T. for short!

Individual Tickets for Wharton Center Now On Sale

For their 30th anniversary season, the Wharton Center in East Lansing is offering some wonderful musicals including War Horse, Billy Elliot, Anything Goes, and Catch Me If You Can. Individual tickets are now on sale for 2012-2013 and you can read more about it at ENCORE MICHIGAN. CLICK HERE to read the complete story.

AUDITIONS for 2012-2013 Michigan Shakespeare Festival Touring Company

Friday, September 7 (11 am—5 pm) and Saturday, September 8 (12 pm—5 pm)
Jackson Symphony Orchestra Hall, 215 W. Michigan Avenue, Jackson, MI

All actors cast will appear in both productions
AND we will be casting covers for all roles who WILL rehearse and perform
7 men, 3 women—ALL TYPES welcome

Actors must have daytime availability and flexible schedules: own car recommended

The Tour runs Monday, November 5 through Friday, May 31 as booked by schools.

To reserve an audition slot, e-mail us at MSFCasting@aol.com
Please prepare two contrasting Shakespeare monologues together no longer than 3 minutes

$50 per show—plus some travel-time compensation based on distance
we will be working to arrange standard carpools for company members

The Tour Covers: Michigan (South of Saginaw), Northern Ohio, and Northern Indiana.

There were 38 performances last season, we hope to have at least 50 this season.

Rehearsals: day and/or evening:
Friday, September 21: mandatory
            Saturday, September 22: mandatory
            Sunday, September 23: mandatory for men
     And then:  2 to 3 days per week (including weekends) through until
            Saturday, November 3: mandatory
            Sunday, November 4: mandatory
Some flexibility Sept 29—Nov 2 possible.

These are all non-AEA positions

Michigan Shakespeare Festival & Jackson District Library present

Shakespeare Allow'd!

In collaboration with the Michigan Shakespeare Festival, JDL invites you to experience a live reading of Edward III Saturday, August 25 at 10:00 am. Hear Shakespeare's work as it was meant to be, out loud. Carnegie Branch, 244 W. Michigan Avenue, Jackson, MI 49201 (517) 788-4087

Purple Rose Offers Fall Classes

Serious about theatre? Consider taking one of the classes offered this Fall by The Purple Rose Theatre in Chelsea, Michigan. Read more HERE.

STEPPING OUT has open role

We are still looking to fill the role of Dorothy in "Stepping Out". 
The script calls for a female between the ages of 30-45, but age is flexible at this stage in the game. 
About 100 lines, though a significant amount are repeating the last few words of other characters' lines.
There is a good amount of tap dancing, but no experience required as she is meant to be a novice.
Dates of the show are September 21, 22, 23, 28, 29 and 30th.
Anyone interested can contact Julie Klee (director) at (517) 315-1242.
-Katie Meyers

Open auditions for THE KING AND I

Center Stage Jackson Announces Open Auditions For

“The King and I”

August 26, 27, 29, and 30, 2012

 

Center Stage Jackson–Jackson’s community theatre group-is holding open auditions for Rodgers& Hammerstein’s beloved musical, “The King and I,” to be directed by Denise Weber (director of “White Christmas, the Musical,” and “Little Shop of Horrors”).  Technical Director is Dean Weber with Vocal Direction by Bradley Jayne.  Max Waagner is Producer.  The show will be performed at JCC’s Baughman Theatre November 2, 3, 4 and 9, 10, 11, 2012.

 

GO TO THE CSJ WEBSITE FOR MORE DETAILS. CLICK HERE.

Michigan Shakespeare Festival 2012 Remaining Performances

Stacy Stoltz and David Turrentine in PYGMALION

 

These are the remaining performances. You must see this amazing season!

 

Wed., August 8, 2:00 p.m.

Pygmalion 

Thurs., August 9, 7:30 p.m.
Love's Labour's Lost

Friday, August 10, 7:30 p.m.Pygmalion

Sat., August 11, 2:00 p.m.Love's Labour's Lost

Sat., August 4, 7:30 p.m.

Richard III

Sunday, August 12, 2:00 p.m.Richard III

SINGLE TICKETS NOW ON SALE FOR WHARTON CENTER

Although the regular box office at the Wharton Center says individual ticket sales are not yet available, you CAN buy individual tickets through this SITE. I just got mine for WAR HORSE!

Riverwalk Theatre Presents SPRING AWAKENING

September 13-16, 20-23 
Musical by Steven Sater
Music by Duncan Sheik
Directed by Kelly Stuible
Winner of 8 Tony awards, including Best Musical, this rock musical celebrates the unforgettable journey from youth to adulthood with a power, poignancy and passion you will never forget. (Starring Jackson's Adam Woolsey as Melchior and featuring Carly Jacobs as Thea). Get those dates on your calendar now and support our awesome Jackson talent!)

All Kinds of Theatre in the greater Detroit Area

Places to go and things to do - theatrically speaking - from The Freep.

Michigan Shakespeare Festival ~ No Passport Needed!

It's not too late to get tickets to the outstanding 2012 Season of the Michigan Shakespeare Festival at the Potter Center, Jackson Community College.

You can read reviews of the three productions from MLive.com right here:

Shakespeare's Love's Labour's Lost, Richard III, and Shaw's Pygmalion. 

Find more details and visit the official Michigan Shakespeare Festival site by clicking on the link.

REVIEW OF THE LAST FIVE YEARS ~ A SPECIAL TREAT

Photo Credit: LAF Lines Photography lidija A. Fremeau

For those who lament the closing of Matt Davis’ Bon Ton Room, you need to get to the Jackson Symphony Hall this weekend to see Jason Robert Brown’s “The Last Five Years”, which premiered in Chicago in 2001 and played off Broadway starting in March 2002.

Presented by KW Productions and Ann Arbor Musical Theater Works, Adam Woolsey and Jayna Katz play Jamie, an author, and Catherine, an actress, in this two-character musical directed with a deft hand by Chip Mezo.

The evening is a 90 minute song cycle with very little dialogue and presented without an intermission. What makes it unusual is the way the story is told. Cathy’s story begins at the end of the relationship and Jamie’s at the beginning. Confused? You won’t be. Adam Woolsey and Jayna Katz make their individual trajectories clear, alternating songs. Somewhere near the middle the two characters briefly join together when they marry.

The songs are cabaret worthy with a mix of pop rock tunes, patter songs and ballads. The sound quality is amazing in the Symphony Hall since its renovation and thanks to the efforts of Amanda Mahoney and KJ Rowan. Every word sung was clear and sharp.

The first-rate musicians, led by Conductor/pianist Lora Knight, include Violin (Matthew Polson), Keyboards (Chip Mezo & Andrea Wynn), Bass (Del Belcher), and Guitar (Victor McDermott). Director Chip Mezo wisely places them upstage center and they are visible between the very workable abstract set designed by Christopher Mezo. The ‘end’ of the five years is on the left and the beginning is on the ‘right’. The two sides of the stage are carefully detailed with authentic pictures, books, and memorabilia making the characters come to life.

The casting is perfect. These two actors work beautifully together drawing the audience into the story and making them care. Jayna Katz has an enormous emotional range. Her laugh is infectious and as a needy aspiring actress, she is absolutely believable. Adam Woolsey, whose experience includes a brief appearance on American Idol Season 11, is loveable when he turns on the charm and smiles, but also capable of being selfish and unfaithful. Both actors have great control of vocal range and can modulate from quiet and lovely to ‘bringing down the house’ wail.

This is first-rate entertainment and highly recommended.

 “The Last Five Years,” by Jason Robert Brown, is at the Jackson Symphony Hall, 215 W Michigan Ave, Jackson, Michigan, performances tonight and Saturday at 8:00 PM and a Sunday matinee at 3:00 PM. Tickets ($15) are available at the door.

The Last Five Years July 12-15

KW Productions and
Ann Arbor Musical Theater Works Announces
THE LAST 5 YEARS
Written and Composed by
Jason Robert Brown

Jackson, MI –

KW Productions and Ann Arbor Musical Theater Works are proud to announce their upcoming production, THE LAST 5 YEARS, to be performed July 12 – 14 at 8:00 PM and July 15 at 3:00 PM at the Jackson Symphony Orchestra, 215 W. Michigan Ave. Jackson, MI 49201.

THE LAST 5 YEARS is a contemporary song-cycle musical that ingeniously chronicles the five year life of a marriage, from meeting to break-up... or from break-up to meeting, depending on how you look at it. Written by Jason Robert Brown, THE LAST 5 YEARS is an intensely personal look at the relationship between a writer and an actress told from both points of view.

The cast is composed of Adam Woolsey as JAMIE WELLERSTEIN and Jayna Katz as CATHERINE HIATT.

THE LAST 5 YEARS is Artistically Directed by Chip Mezo and Musically Conducted by Lora Spangler-Knight. Instrumentation includes a small string ensemble, fit for the JSO, comprised of piano, violin, cello, bass, and guitar.

General Admission: $15 per person. Reservations may be emailed to THELAST5YEARS.JSO@GMAIL.COM. Reservations are encouraged, as seating is limited.

Croswell presents LES MISERABLES, Student Edition

For this first time production starring students from throughout the region, the Croswell has added a matinee performance to its usual scheduling, as well as a Thursday evening performance. Curtain times for the performances are at 8:00pm on July 13, 14, 19, 20 & 21, and at 3:00pm on July 15, 21 and 22.  Tickets for the show are $22 for adults, $20 for seniors and students, and $15 for children 12 and under.

 

For information about tickets, call the Croswell Box Office at 517-264-SHOW (7469), stop in at the box office at 129 E. Maumee, Adrian, MI, Mon-Fri, 9-5 pm or visit the website, www.croswell.org.  For more information about the Croswell’s production of Les Misérables, please contact Nate Clark at 517-263-6868 or at nclark@croswell.org. ­­

Les Misérables is co-directed by Julie Dolan and Sue Smith, who also choreographs. Erin Pifer serves as assistant director, with music direction by Jonathan Sills. Scenic and lighting design is by Douglas Miller, costume design by Marianna Steele, sound design by Ian Thompson and Tyler Miller, and stage management by Janene Dusseau.

On Golden Pond at the Purple Rose

Borrowed & adapted with permission from Carla Milarch's Listing of Shows in AnnArbor.com. To read more, click on the links.

Show: “On Golden Pond”, by Ernest Thompson, through September 1
 Company: Purple Rose Theatre Company
 Type of Company: Professional Equity (SPT)
Venue/location: 137 Park Street, Chelsea
Recommended ages: 13+ (some mature language)

Description: This charming love story follows Ethel and Norman Thayer as they return to their summer home in Maine. Their respite is interrupted by the unexpected arrival of their estranged daughter, her fiancee, and his teenage son. Over the course of the summer, an unlikely friendship develops between Norman and the boy, which sparks a renewed zest for life in the Thayer family. In the twilight years of marriage, Ethel and Norman rediscover the joy and romance of every day living.
http://www.mlive.com/entertainment/jackson/index.ssf/2012/07/review_purple_roses_on_golden.html

Fun fact: The role of Billy Ray is shared by two high school students: Ian Bejster, of Dexter, and Milo Tucker-Meyer of Ann Arbor.
For tickets and information: 734-433-7673 or www.purplerosetheatre.org.

Purple Rose JULY 4th SPECIAL Buy One, Get One Free

Celebrate summer with On Golden Pond, Wednesday, July 4 at 8:00PM!

Details

Buy One Ticket, Get One Free for On Golden Pond. Valid only for July 4, 2012.

Order by Phone: 734.433.7673
Buy Online: Click Here

Coupon Code: JULY4

Limit 8 total tickets per order. Valid only for July 4 performance.
Offer may not be combined with other discounts.

Photo by Sean Carter Photography.

Mary Barber (1957 - 2007)

In remembrance of Mary Barber June 25, 1957 - May 14, 2007

Auditions (Not a Center Stage Production)

OPEN AUDITIONS FOR: The NERD By: Larry Shue WHEN: Friday June 29th 7pm-9pm Saturday June 30th 2pm-4pm WHERE: First Congregational Church 120 N. Jackson St. Directed by Mark Turson QUESTIONS? Call (517) 795-2044

Talent needed!

Shed Light Productions will be shooting several training programs for the pizza industry during the month of June. We need talent to play the parts of Customer Service Representatives, Drivers and Customers. Talent of all ages. Location will be in the Jackson area.

We’ll pay $100.00 a day. No memorization of scripts necessary. Lines will be short and provided at time of taping. Part time work available as well. Hours are flexible for the majority of talent.

If interested, send us a picture and your contact info to : dan@shedlightprod.com

Julianne Dolan Wins Award

The Croswell, along with the Lenawee Arts Award Committee, announces that Julianne Dolan is to be honored with the 2012 Lenawee Arts Award.  Each year, the Lenawee Arts Award Committee selects the recipient of the award from a host of nominations.  The award honors a member of our community that goes “above and beyond” to support the visual and performing arts. 

Congratulations to Julianne Dolan, who has performed in the Jackson area as well!

Cold Reading Workshop in Dexter

Take Charge of Your Next Audition
It’s time for callbacks. Breathe. You can do this.

Sundays, 7-9 p.m.
June 10, 17, 24; July 1, 8, (no class July 15), and July 22.

Visit www.CarrieJay.com/workshop for more details of what to expect!

LEGALLY BLONDE OPENS JUNE 15TH

Center Stage Jackson presents Legally Blonde - The Musical June 15-17 and 22-24 in the Baughman Theatre at JCC. www.centerstagejackson.org

Youth Theatre Seeks Directors

Center Stage Jackson Youth Theater seeks directors for the 2012-13 season for a November play and a March musical. Contact info@centerstagejackson.org for more information.

Scholarships Available from Center Stage Jackson

Center Stage Jackson (CSJ) will be providing theatre arts scholarships for students. Application deadline is July 27th. www.centerstagejackson.org

Summer Programs for Kids & Teens

This information came from Encore Michigan:

WILLIAMSTON - The Williamston Theatre will offer four workshops this summer for teens (12-18 years old) starting June 18. The classes will be taught by Dana Brazil, a professional actress who has been seen onstage at Williamston Theatre, BoarsHead Theatre and The Purple Rose Theatre Company. Find more details HERE.

ANN ARBOR - The Children's Theatre Network announces "The Play's the Thing!" This youth acting class (7-11 years), taught by accomplished instructor/performer Anne Rhoades and CTN Director Becky Fox, will be held at Performance Network Theatre Monday through Friday June 18-29 from 4:30-6 p.m. 

Encore Michigan.com, is a new, Web-based publication focused on Michigan's professional theater industry. It is the state's premier source for free, up-to-the-minute news and information about this often-ignored segment of the arts community. has shared the following theatrical opportunities for young people this summer.

Love the Music in Jekyll & Hyde?

The international musical sensation Jekyll & Hyde, starring Tony Award nominee Constantine Maroulis in the dual title role of Dr. Henry Jekyll and Edward Hyde and Grammy nominee and R&B superstar Deborah Cox as Lucy, will play the Fisher Theatre, Nov. 27 - Dec. 2. "Jekyll & Hyde" is now the fourth "extra show" outside of the 2012-2013 Broadway in Detroit Season Subscription. Click on the link for more details.

The other three productions are Mary Poppins at the Fisher Theatre, Oct. 23– 28; Jersey Boys at the Fisher Theatre, Dec. 12 – Jan. 6, 2013; and The Lion King at the Detroit Opera House, Feb. 13 – March 10.

Michigan Shakespeare Festival Monologue Contest

The Michigan Shakespeare Festival is holding the first district of its High School Shakespeare Monologue Scholarship Competition this Saturday, May 19th, at Whole Foods Market, 3135 Washtenaw Ave. in Ann Arbor. The competition is open to all high schoolers grades 9-12. A registration fee of $5.00 is required, sign up begins at 10am .  This is the Eastern District of the competition and 4 finalists will be chosen to go to the State Final, held during the Michigan Shakespeare Festival on July 28th. The winners will be announced on stage, during the curtain call for the matinee performance of Love's Labour's Lost.

More details are available on their website. Click HERE. 

Barn Theatre in Augusta Announces 66th Season

Summer stock is pretty much a thing of the past except for the Barn Theatre in Augusta, a manageable trip (about an hour from Jackson) west on I-94, and so much fun!! This is how actors got their early experience apprenticing in the summers and learning the trade. The Barn is Michigan's oldest professional equity summer stock theatre.

Here's the exciting line-up for the 2012 Summer Season:

• The Great Big Bar Show, a Barn Theatre tradition
  May 29 – June 3
• The Fox on the Fairway, by Ken Ludwig
  June 5 -17
• Rodgers and Hart's Pal Joey with Kim Zimmer (four-time Emmy Winner for "Guiding Light")
  June 19 – July 1
• Legally Blonde
  July 3 - 15
• The Wedding Singer
  July 17 - 29
• The Rocky Horror Show
  July 31 – Aug. 12
• Spamalot
  Aug. 14 - 26
• Raunch and Roll
  Aug. 28 – Sept. 2

MSF Establishes The Bob Duha Memorial Fund

The Michigan Shakespeare Festival is honored to announce the establishment of The Bob Duha Fund to honor his memory. Bob’s involvement with Michigan non-profits and the Arts is the stuff of legend, and it is both a privilege and a pleasure to use all monies received to benefit his favorite MSF project, the High School Shakespeare Monologue Scholarship Competition, a truly unique opportunity for young people get a helping hand in establishing their careers in the performing arts.

For more information about the fund, or ways to contribute, please call the MSF at 517.998.3673, visit us online at www.MichiganShakespeareFestival.com. Mailed donations can be sent to the attention of The Bob Duha Fund at 215 West Michigan Avenue, Jackson MI, 49201.

John Peakes Returns to Michigan in Purple Rose Production

If you love On Golden Pond, you'll be thrilled to know that John Peakes, co-founder of the late BoarsHead Theatre (1966 - 2003) in Lansing, is returning to Michigan to play Norman.

But be warned : "Due to other commitments, Peakes will only be in the production June 21 through Aug. 5. After that date, the role will be taken over by Chicago actor Richard Henzel ("Heroes," Stormfield Theatre), who will finish the run, which ends Sept. 1."

Tickets will go on sale for "On Golden Pond" at 10 a.m. May 14. Ticket reservations can be made by calling The Purple Rose Theatre Company Box Office at 734-433-7673. Box Office hours are Monday and Tuesday from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m., Wednesday through Friday from 10 a.m. - 10 p.m., Saturday noon - 10 p.m., and Sunday noon - 4 p.m. Tickets are also available for purchase at www.purplerosetheatre.org.

Special Offer from the Purple Rose

Mother's Day Special!
Buy One, Get One Free
Sunday, May 13 Only

Here's you chance to see WHITE BUFFALO at a great price! Visit the Purple Rose website for more information or call 734.433.7673!

Drama Camp 2012 at Spring Arbor University

Spring Arbor University will host its third annual summer theater camps during the weeks of August 6 and August 13. Fables and fairy tales will be brought to life as participants get the chance act out some of their favorite stories.
 
For ages 5-8 and 9-16, the camps last for one week. In that time, students will be taught about the theater, receive stage training and be encouraged to have fun acting out various parts in some classic plays. At the conclusion of the week, students are cast in roles and the plays are performed for family and friends at the conclusion of the week.

For more details, click HERE.

Summer Program for Kids at Siena Heights

Siena Heights University is offering a unique art immersion program this summer for students who love to create. The camp is from 9 AM to 12:30 PM Monday through Friday, from June 18 through 29 on the Adrian campus. The program will include experiences in music and movement, visual arts and drama.

Students in grades 1 through 12 will delve into a variety of myths, masks and merriment. Some of the class varieties include youth choir, guitar, piano, musical theater workshop, book and paper making.

For more information or to register, contact Amy Sturtevant at 1-517-264-7890 or Joni Warner at 1-517-264-7901 or visit online at www.sienaheights.edu. Registration deadline is May 1. SHU is located at 1247 E. Siena Heights Drive, Adrian.

TONY AWARD WINNING AVENUE Q AT THE CROSWELL

Winner of the Tony "Triple Crown" for Best Musical, Best Score and Best Book, you won’t want to miss Avenue Q! Entertainment Weekly said Avenue Q was “one of the funniest shows you’re ever likely to see,” and it was called, “Subversive and uproarious” by The New Yorker. The show features a cast of people and puppets who tell the story of recent college grad Princeton in a smart, risqué and downright entertaining way. Together, Princeton and his new-found friends, struggle to find jobs, dates, and their ever-elusive purpose in life. The show is full of heart and hummable tunes.

Avenue Q is a witty Sesame Street satire, written by Jeff Whitty, with music and lyrics by the songwriting team of Robert Lopez and Jeff Marx. Songs include, “It Sucks To Be Me,” “Mix Tape,” “Schadenfreude,” and “What Do You Do With A B.A. In English?” Due to adult situations, including sexual content and explicit language, the show is considered PG-13.

The Croswell’s cast includes: Matthew Bowland (Toledo,OH) as Princeton/Rod, Kelly Fandrey (Toledo) as Kate Monster/Lucy, Eric Wright-Olsen (Ann Arbor, MI) as Nicky/Trekkie Monster, Natalie Kissinger (Maumee, OH) as Christmas Eve, Melissa Paschall (Jackson, MI) as Gary Coleman, Jamie Buechele (Ottawa Lake, MI) and Joshua Mohler (Monroe, MI) as The Bad Idea Bears, and others, and Rebecca Craig (Adrian, MI) and Jesse Monte (Tecumseh, MI) as a variety of puppet and human characters. Eric Parker (Chicago, IL), plays Brian, and also directs the show.

Other members of the artistic team include: Jonathan Sills - Music Director, Janine Woods-Thoma - Scenic Designer, Tiff Crutchfield - Lighting Designer, Jee-Hak Pinonealut-Sound Designer, Alyssa Battersby-Costume Designer, and Katie Metz – Stage Manager.

  

Avenue Q runs May 11 – 20 at the Croswell, with performances Friday and Saturday evenings at 8:oopm, and Sundays at 3pm. Tickets for Avenue Q are $28 for adults and $25 for students and seniors, and are available now. For information about tickets, call the Croswell at 517-264-SHOW (7469), stop in to the box office at 129 E. Maumee, Adrian, MI, Mon-Fri, 9-5 pm or visit the website, www.croswell.org. 

To arrange an interview with members of the cast or artistic team, or to arrange complimentary tickets prior to reviewing the show, please contact Jere Righter at 517-263-6868 or at jrighter@croswell.org.

Jere L. Righter

Artistic Director

Croswell Opera House

129 E. Maumee Street

Adrian, MI 49221

O. 517-263-6868

C. 517-403-1315

Purple Rose Theatre Company Seeking Develoopment Assistant/Office Manager

The Purple Rose Theatre Company, a professional regional theatre and 501(c)3
nonprofit organization seeks a development assistant/office manager to work
closely with development director, staff and distinguished board members to:
 

• Assist with generating unearned income for annual operations via all possible foundation, corporate and individual support;
• Assist in cultivating and soliciting major gifts;
• Assist in writing and researching foundation, corporate and government grants;
• Cultivating and obtaining sponsorships;
• Maintaining donor data base and depositing contributions.create and disseminate board packets for quarterly board meetings.
• Assist in the planning and execution of fundraising events
• Assisting in the general operation of the PRTC administration office.

Desired qualifications:

• Excellent interpersonal and organizational skills; 
• Experience working in the not-for-profit sector; 
• Knowledge of Giftworks, I-Movie, Adobe products and Mac software.

To apply please send a resume, cover letter, and three professional references to: 
Guy Sanville, Artistic Director, Purple Rose Theatre Company,
137 Park Street, Chelsea, MI 48118 or email sanville@purplerosetheatre.org.
No phone calls, please.

One Man Star Wars Trilogy hits The Croswell April 21

CharlES Ross appears one night only in downtown Adrian

Get your light sabers ready, because Charles Ross is bringing his wildly entertaining One Man Star Wars Trilogy to The Croswell in downtown Adrian, on Saturday, April 21 at 8:00pm.

In his hilarious, kinetic solo piece, Canadian writer/performer Ross plays all the characters, recreates the effects, sings from John Williams’ score, flies the ships, and fights both sides of the battles from the original Star Wars trilogy, punctuating his virtuosic performance with captivating factoids and editorial asides.

No costumes, no props, no sets – just Ross using his yoga-limber body, remarkable knack for voices, subtle changes in facial expression, and manic levels of energy to put his own distinct stamp on the Star Wars universe.  Did he spend too much of his childhood in a galaxy far, far away?  Well, let’s just say that by age 10, he had seen the first Star Wars film more than 400 times and committed virtually every line to memory. Ross has since parlayed this childhood obsession into a one-of-kind theatrical piece, which he has performed in more than 180 cities around the universe. Where does he get his strength? It flows from the Force, of course.

The Croswell will host two additional FREE events prior to One Man Star Wars. Beginning at 6:30pm members of the Great Lakes Garrison of the 501^st Legion (a worldwide Star Wars organization composed of and operated by Star Wars fans,) will be on-hand to demonstrate fighting technique, costuming and more from Star Wars. At 7:00pm a Star Wars costume contest will be held in age categories of 8 and under, 9 – 15 year olds, and 16 years old and older. Each age category will have two winners - 1) for best overall costume and role representation and 2) most creative use of materials and talent in representing the role. Both pre-show events take place in the city of Adrian parking lot immediately behind the Croswell, off of Toledo Street. The performance of the One Man Star Wars Trilogy begins at 8:00pm inside the Croswell, and tickets are required for entry.

Tickets for One Man Star Wars Trilogy are $32 for main floor seating, with balcony seats just $26. All seating is reserved, so order tickets early for best available seats. For information about tickets, or to make a purchase call the Croswell at 517-264-SHOW (7469), stop in to the box office at 129 E. Maumee, Adrian, MI, Mon-Fri, 9-5 pm or visit the website, www.croswell.org. 

For more information about the One Man Star Wars Trilogy, or to schedule an interview about the performance or the added events, please contact Jere Righter at 517-263-6868 or at jrighter@croswell.org.  

One Man Star Wars Trilogy performed with permission of Lucasfilm Ltd. All Star Wars elements property of Lucasfilm Ltd. All rights reserved. 

Michigan Shakespeare Festival presents. . .

Click on the picture to enlarge

Croswell Now Accepting Applications for Summer 2012 Internships! Applications Due March 12, 2012

The Croswell Opera House, Michigan’s oldest continually operating theatre, offers internships for college undergraduate and graduate students looking for opportunities in costuming, technical theatre/ carpentry, stage management and arts management/marketing. Applicants must be at least 18 years old as of May 1, 2012.

The Croswell’s internship program offers a challenging, fun, educational experience for those interested in pursuing a career in the theatre arts, as well as those that have enjoyed working in the creative arts, but are pursuing other majors and/or career options. Croswell interns are entrusted with a great deal of responsibility, and have the opportunity to work closely with the Croswell staff, as well as contracted artists from through the Midwest.

We expect a willingness to work hard and high standards of performance. Weekend hours can be expected. In return, interns are treated as members of our professional staff and receive intensive hands-on experience and other generous perks. We ask that all interns be reliable, conscientious and energetic.

The internships run for approximately 12 weeks and include a small stipend ($250 per week). While there is some flexibility in the start dates, the internships generally run from mid-May through the second week in August. Housing is not provided, however the Croswell can assist with finding reasonably priced, local housing if required.

To apply for a Croswell Summer Internship, please provide a cover letter and resume, either via regular mail or electronically to the following:

Croswell Opera House
Summer Internship
129 E. Maumee
Adrian, MI 49221

or via e-mail to: financial@croswell.org

Your application should indicate for which Internship you are applying. All applications must be received by March 12, 2012.

Interviews for considered candidates will be conducted the weeks of March 19 and March 26 with successful candidates being notified by April 9, 2012.

For more information about the Croswell, our events and productions visit www.croswell.org, facebook.com/thecroswell or email tickets@croswell.org.