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.

Jackson Community College High School One-Act Play Festival

Drama students to compete in High School One-Act Play Festival

Jackson Community College will host the sixth annual One-Act Play Festival on Saturday, Feb. 25, with six Jackson County high schools participating. Doors will open at 8:30 a.m. in the Michael Baughman Theatre, Potter Center. Festival begins at 8:45 a.m. and performances begin at 9 a.m.
The One-Act Play Festival is hosted by the College, with the support of local theatre artists, to provide performance and technical theatre opportunities for high school students. It is designed to highlight theatrical talents of local schools, provide healthy and creative competition, foster team work, and to promote theatrical opportunities at JCC and in the community. The event is coordinated by Sandy DiCesare, JCC coordinator of educational theatre.
Schools participating this year include:
• Hanover-Horton
• Jackson
• Grass Lake
• Concord
• Northwest
• Western
Judges for this year’s event will be Dr. Paul Patton of Spring Arbor University, Dr. Kerry Graves of Siena Heights University, new JCC theatre instructor Drew Sutherland, and Kristen Trumble, JCC technical theatre alumni, will be the technical judge. Local theatre artists and JCC Drama Club and theatre students will staff the day.
Awards include a $400 scholarship to JCC for each member of the school that receives “Best Overall Performance.” Awards will be presented following the performances at 4 p.m. Admission is $3 per person. For more information, contact the Potter Center Box Office at 517.796.8600.

Theatre Spaces That Inspire!

I saw this picture of the interior of the Bijou Theatre and fell in love. (American Theatre October 2011) It's a refurbished movie house in Bridgeport, Connecticut but it has cabaret and regular seating.

"True to its heritage, over 100 years later, one of the oldest buildings used as a movie house in the country, is now poised for a revival, as envisioned in the Bijou Square renaissance. The Bijou Theatre is a multi–functional venue with integrity and an open minded philosophy. A symposium for film, theatre, art, comedy and music."

The Bijou "aspires to be a cultural playground". Although independent films and cultural art performances will be the main events, the theater plans to offer "a steady stream of music, comedy and theatrical productions"!

Jackson Community College Holding Auditions

Ruth Day Theatre Entrance

Jackson Community College is auditioning for 1959 Pink Thunderbird Convertible, two plays by James McLure. Laundry and Bourbon is the story of three small-town women who love to gossip. Lone Star is about Roy, a man who loves three things: his country, his beautiful wife and his 1959 Pink Thunderbird Convertible -- not necessarily in that order. There are roles for 3 men and 3 women ranging in age from 20s to early 30s.

Audition times are Thursday, January 12 and Friday, January 13 in the Ruth Day Theatre, Potter Center, from 6:30 - 8:00 pm. A prepared monologue is appreciated; but if you don't have one ready, you can read from material that will be provided that evening.

Performances are scheduled on February 16, 17, 18, 24 & 25 at 8:00pm and February 19 & 26 at 3:00pm.

The director is Andrew Sutherland, an Instructor and the new Director, Center for the Arts.

Michigan Theatre Seeking Executive Director

Executive Director

The Michigan Theatre of Jackson is a nonprofit corporation dedicated to the restoration, operation and maintenance of the Theatre, providing a versatile center for arts entertainment and education in an historic atmosphere serving all members of the community. Hiring practices include a commitment to a policy of equal employment opportunity.

We are seeking qualified applicants for our full-time position of Executive Director who will provide organizational leadership, vision and community involvement. Bachelor's degree (B. A.) preferred. Two to five-years' experience in theatre and cinema or closely related field and experience in non-profit funding preferred. Prefer someone with familiarity with Jackson County area businesses, industry, education, media and Chamber of Commerce constituencies.

The successful candidate will have strong interpersonal skills and possess the ability to work well with a wide range of external constituents,  will possess the ability to lead fundraising efforts and be strong in persuasive communication, organizational management and leadership, will effectively manage and direct staff and budget and will be hands-on in maintaining and operating the Theatre. Is responsible for marketing and public relation activities and develops/cultivates relationships to increase sales and revenue opportunities with area businesses and donors.

Candidate will be able to work flexible hours, including nights and holidays. Work weekends (Friday, Saturday and Sunday) on a regular basis and have a willingness to work a variety of events and be open to wide range of diversity.

Interested and qualified candidates please submit cover letter and resume to: Michigan Theatre of Jackson c/o Search Committee, 124 N. Mechanic Street, Jackson, Michigan 49201.

Or email (preferred): mitheatresearch@gmail.com

NOTE: Applications will be accepted through January 31, 2012.

Download Complete Description Here

Auditions for THE VELVETEEN RABBIT (A Musical)

Auditions for The Velveteen Rabbit

A CSJ Youth Theater MUSICAL

Open to all Jackson Couty Youth in Grades 3-9

No second graders, please.

Thursday, January 5 or Tuesday, January 10, 2011

4:30

Jackson's First Presbyterian Church

745 West Michigan Avenue, Jackson

No experience required!  Beginners welcome!

No advanced preparation necessary!

Those auditioning will be asked to do a cold reading from the script, sing a simple song and learn a simple dance step.

Questions?

See the "Questions" section of theYouth Theater tab

More questions?

Contact Doug Meyers at drmeyers14@sbcglobal.net or (517)-783-1468

THEATRE TERMS AND WHAT THEY MEAN!

In is down, down is front

out is up, up is back

off is out, on is in.

And of course,

right is left, left is right.

A drop shouldn't and a

block and fall does neither.

A prop doesn't and

a cove has no water.

Tripping is OK.

A running crew rarely gets anywhere.

A purchase line will buy you nothing.

A trap will not catch anything.

A gridiron has nothing to do with football.

Strike is work (in fact, lots of work),

and a green room, thank goodness, usually isn't.

Now that you're fully versed in theatrical terms,

Break a leg .. but not really!

Fourth Annual Youth Singing Competition - January 20, 2012

2011 Winners (12 and under)

Want to prove to Jackson that you can sing?  The young people in the picture did.

Center Stage Jackson – Jackson’s community theatre group - is hosting the Fourth Annual Youth Singing Competition for young people up through 12 grade on Friday, January 20, 2012.  Contestants will be divided into two age groups: twelve and under, and thirteen through senior in high school. The competition will be held in The Grand Community Room at The Ella Sharp Museum at 4005 Fourth St, Jackson, MI.  Entrance 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!

REGISTRATION FORM

DOWNLOAD THE FLIER
Competition Guidelines
Judges Form

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

The deadline for entries is Friday, January 13, 2012.  (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 p.m. and the competition begins at 7:30 p.m. 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 sophomore at Jackson High School.  Carly Brake, a freshman at Lumen Christi and previous winner of the event, will be co-hosting.

What A Do Theatre in Battle Creek

Critical & Box Office Success for What A Do Theatre's The Christmas Schooner   What A Do Theatre set an attendance record with the Opening Weekend of The Christmas Schooner.  Attendance grew 50% over the Opening Weekend for The Laramie Project, the previous record holder. The Christmas Schooner has also received rave reviews.  The Battle Creek Enquirer says: "The Christmas Schooner is a powerhouse of show." "The cast is terrific...a tight grip on its energy, doling out just enough at each beat to build a strong and emotional climax.” "The acting of Betsy King and Jeff Stierle provides the kind of potent drama for which What A Do Theatre has become well known." You can read Christopher Tower's full review here. The Christmas Schooner continues December 2-3, 8-10, and 16-17.  All performances will be at What A Do Theatre’s new location at 4071 West Dickman Road, one block from Begg Park and the Springfield Farmers Market.  Show time for all performances is 8 p.m.  Due to a scheduling conflict, there will be no matinee performances. Reservations can be made by visiting www.whatado.org or by calling the Box Office at 269.282.1953 or 773.744.8598.  Ticket prices are $20.  Seniors (65 and older), students, and members of the Armed Forces and veterans receive a 10% discount with a valid ID.  Group sales rates are also available.  “Name Your Own Price Night” will be Thursday, December 8th.

No More Jackson Citizen Patriot Reviews of ANY Shows

Did you miss the newspaper reviews yet? Did you even realize that the Jackson Citizen Patriot stopped reviewing productions this past year? That means the Purple Rose, the Michigan Shakespeare Festival, and Center Stage Jackson productions.

A lot of audience members will attend without feeling the need for a review. We just ask friends what they thought or what they have heard.

In the meantime, there have been a couple of brief discussions in the theatre community about creative ways that gap might be filled. If you have ideas, we would love to know.

Here is what one theatre is doing, which sounds very interesting even though out of our league. Click HERE to read more.

Irving Berlin’s WHITE CHRISTMAS Opening November 4th

Remember Dorne Lefere?

Dorne rehearsing for The Producers

I was reading Barnstorms, the newsletter of The Farmington Players, when I came across a name I recognized. Dorne Lefere. He is listed as playing Dickens in their upcoming production of A Christmas Carol. Earlier this year he starred as Max Bialock in The Producers.

Share your memories here if you worked with Dorne back in the day.