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Emerald City Players is seeking directors for our 2010 season.

We are seeking experienced directors for the following productions…

Leading Ladies by Ken Ludwig

Jan. 15-30, 2010

Six Dance Lessons in Six Weeks by Richard Alfieri

Mar. 5-20, 2010

Sherlock Holmes: The Final Adventure adapted by Steven Dietz

Jun. 11-26, 2010

A Little Murder Never Hurt Anybody by Ron Bernas

July 30- Aug. 14

A Streetcar Named Desire by Tennessee Williams

Sep. 24- Oct. 9, 2010

The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee by William Finn & Rachel Sheinkin

Nov. 19- Dec. 4, 2010

If you would like to submit your resume for consideration, please email

your resume to Rick Foster at rickf@columbus.rr.com no later than Monday,

August 31st.

At that point, we will be scheduling interviews with our director

selection committee.

If you are not familiar with the shows, please obtain a copy of the script

or musical soundtrack from your local library, or the Internet to

familiarize yourself with the show prior to the interviews.

Please be prepared to provide a clear concept of the show as produced in

our space, ideas for scenes, dances, set, lights, budget specifications,

potential production staff and crew members as well as their resumes.

22 actors needed on August 22: Reading Opportunities with The Drama Foundry Writers’ Group

James P Brosnahan and Philip Montell offer their play, The Mummy Queen, to the group to be read. The script is a cutting down of the first act of the play and is 25 pages long, based upon the novel “The Mummy and Miss Nitocris – A Phantasy of the Fourth Dimension” by George Griffith, 1906.

Also being read, Arvin Donner’s short play, Fantasia Dentata.   The play is 26 pages long.  Fantasia Dentata is a satirical reappropriation of the Vagina Dentata myth.

Any actors interested in being considered for the reading, contact thedramafoundry@yahoo.com for more information.  All types needed- from the fantastically imprisoned gynecologist of a frustrated romantic, to the supernaturally well-preserved mummified body of Queen Nitocris, daughter of Rameses.  And everything in between.  A great chance to network with area writers and theatre artists.

The coming weekend promises to be a hot and sweaty one, so why not hunker down in a nice cool building and watch some theatre?  Otterbein College even offers Christmas in August in the form of its final summer production, The Last Night of Ballyhoo.  You’d think the hottest ticket in town would be the visiting tour of Cirque du Soleil-Saltimbanco at Nationwide Arena,  as the international spectacle-based performance group featuring over 50 artists from 22 countries makes its final U.S. stop right here in Columbus.  As of this posting, however, tickets at several pricing levels are available throughout the 11 day run.  The toughest ticket to grab happens to be a Columbus-based children’s show written by one of the city’s own.  Columbus Children’s Theatre’s Cinderella- Hip Hop Fairytale by Matthew Johnson sold out its short run at its funky Short North venue even before Theatre Vault could post the review.  And finally, for those who like a little more risk and challenge in their theatrical adventures, check out the ever-ambitious Available Light Theatre as it takes on controversial playwright Young Jean Lee’s inspiring religious appraisal, Church… check back here later in the weekend for our review.

Meredith A. Zahn as "Annabelle" (our "Cinderella") and surround her are her Guardian Angels: Gabby Pedroza as "Meney," Kyle Moore as "Miney," Jacob Briggs as "Mo," and Kirsten Hosty as "Eeney."

by Tahrea Maynard

Columbus Children’s Theatre opened its newest production, Cinderella: A Hip Hop Fairytale, on August 5 to a full house and a quickly sold out run. True to its title, CCT’s Cinderella, based on the classic fairy tale, gets a hip hop makeover with many modern twists. Annabelle (Meredith A. Zahn), a 21st century 16-year-old has been blessed by angels with a beautiful singing voice. However, Annabelle finds herself silenced by her evil aunt Priscilla (Maggie Pfeifer), who forces the girl to hide her gift. Annabelle soon enjoys the help of her four guardian angels, Eeney (Kristen Hosty), Meney (Gabby Pedroza), Miney (Kyle Moore), and Mo (Jacob Briggs), replacing the classic Fairy Godmother and her mice. Replacing the “Prince” is the Pop Sensation Christian (Logan Solana), who creates a singing competition, American Icon, to find his next singing partner, his Cinderella.

Villainess Priscilla and her two daughters, Vanessa and Skye (Lucy Porter and Carolyn LaLonde), play off of each other well, as their characters relentlessly torment poor Annabelle. Their highlights include the musical numbers “Green Makes Us Blue” and “How to Be a Loser.”  Pfiefer’s nasty Priscilla proves especially chilling.  As one young audience member said to her mother during the opening night performance, “She’s not nice!”  Juxtaposed to the family’s constant malice, the kind-hearted guardian angels provide warmth and comfort as they serenade Annabelle with the smile-inducing “Happy Birthday Song” and “We Got Ya Back.”  Unfortunately, director Angela Barch mars the pacing of the jokes, jabs, and puns in the opening scene, causing it to drag.

This production boasts a cast of 25+ actors, many playing multiple roles, all of whom do a wonderful job both dancing, and acting.  This reviewer noticed a few supporting actors who stood out in their multiple roles including the darling Kate Coley and Gabrielle E. Marie Wilson who work well together as Record Label Representatives, exhibiting professional comedic timing in their quick banter.   Later, Coley, Lauren Mae Livingstone, and Bailey Laws parody American Idol judges Simon, Paula, and Randy (or, in this case, Brandy), adding their own touches to the recognizable characteristics of all three of the actual judges. Another actor who caught this reviewer’s eye is Briana Hunter, a delightful young performer who shines in each of her roles, most notably as Nicky, one of the American Icon contestants, as she urges the audience to applaud her entrance and then sing along to her rendition of “ABC Song.”

Overall, this production is well done within many of its creative nuances. Light effects and sound cues help set the mood for every scene, with white rope lights illuminating the Angels and red spot lights signifying the no-so-nice Lucy (Haley Tandy) and other Fallen Angels. Each song has its own hip hop choreography (Natalie A. Bowsher) done well by the energetic young cast. Patty Bennett and Angela Barch’s costumes are believable and suit the characters and situations Each of the four Guardian Angels wear a simple white shirt and wings, but each has details that add to the individual personalities, whether it’s a spiffy silver neck tie or a simply un-tucked shirt.  Although the minimal set is perfect for the production, allotting enough space for moving props and dancing, the 3/4 thrust stage causes audience members to miss some of the action, as Barch’s at times static blocking causes sight-line problems and acoustic issues for those in corner seats. Such was the case within a few scenes during this show.

CCT commissioned Musical Director Matt Johnson to write this production for the 2009 Youth Performance Company, making it a CCT Original. Directed by Angela Barch, CCT’s Cinderella: A Hip Hop Fairytale takes some liberties with its source material, but the fine acting, top notch singing, and powerful dancing makes it an adorable musical this reviewer recommends for ages 3 and up.  Please note that some small children and infants may not be able to tolerate 75+ minute run time.  Cinderella: A Hip Hop Fairytale runs August 5th- 16th. All seats are $10. Show times are 10 am Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays, 7:30 pm on Fridays, and 3 pm on Saturdays and Sundays. For ticket information, visit the website or call 614-224-6672.  Note that at the time of this posting, all tickets are listed as sold out.

*****

Tahrea Maynard has spent the majority of her life onstage, appearing on stages with such Central Ohio theatres as Roundtown Players and Rosebriar Shakespeare Co. She also teaches Musical Theatre classes with the Charmion Performing Arts Center in Circleville.  Check out her blog here.

by Krista Threadgill

Picture this:  It’s Tuesday night, there’s nothing on television (okay, there may be, but I don’t watch a lot of TV), nothing interesting arrived from Netflix, and the local theatre scene has gone to bed until the weekend.  Or has it?  Check your calendar:  if it’s the second Tuesday of the month, you can help Raconteur Theatre pick one of its next productions.

Those crazy folks at Raconteur have come up with a pretty neat idea.  They bring in a bunch of their regular actors who read through a script that RTC is considering for the upcoming season.  The audience’s job is to provide feedback via a short questionnaire at the end of the session.  The  low-key  atmosphere offers raw performances with coffee and snacks available in the library lobby.

This is a great way to experience a play without having to dole out a lot of cash.  Reading a play is one way to formulate ideas about it, but you get a much better picture hearing it, instead.  Last night’s script was Tracks in the Snow by Neil McGowan.  This particular reading was somewhat of an anomaly in that Raconteur has already decided to add this to the schedule, expecting to present it in late 2010.  All of the other readings from this point will work like script auditions, with the audience serving as the sounding board, helping to determine which plays the company will produce in the upcoming season.

So instead of watching reruns or foraging in the fridge for the snack you know you really don’t need, why not join Raconteur in the ever-challenging pursuit of theatrical excellence?  They’ll be glad to have you!

Raconteur Theatre has their free script reading on the second Tuesday of every month from 6:30-8:30 p.m.  The next reading will be on September 8th.  See Columbus Theatre Calendar for more information, or visit the Raconteur website.

AUDITIONS: The Taming of the Shrew with Rosebriar Shakespeare Company

WHEN: Saturday, August 22 from 1-4pm and Monday, August 24 from 6:00-8:30pm

WHERE: Columbus Metropolitan Library, Main Branch, 96 S. Grant St., Columbus, OH- Conference Room 2

INFO: Directed by Danielle Mari. Synopsis- Ever have one of those days?  You’ve worked hard, enjoyed a few brews, passed out at the local alehouse, and woke up with a bunch of servants and a flirty wife who all insist you’re a nobleman?  Mama Mia!  Poor Christopher Sly has exactly this kind of day when an impish lord plays a practical joke on him.  The lord and his players then put on a comedy… you know the one.  Sweet Bianca cannot be married until her shrewish sister, Katherina, finds a husband.  Could the dastardly (though undeniably charming) Petruchio be the man to tame the fiery Kate?  Rosebriar Shakespeare resurrects this classic battle of the sexes, including the oft forgot opening scenes and adding a few new twists sure to delight.  Rated PG-13

ROLES: All roles available.  All actors will play multiple roles (from 2 to 5 different characters per actor), so there are no small parts.  Seeking up to 8 men (ages 18-80) and 6 women (ages 18-80).  All ethnicities and types encouraged to audition.  No experience necessary.  Not sure you have “it?”  Join the free actor workshop Saturday, August 15 and we’ll help you find it.  Click here for more information about the workshop.

PREP: Bring one short, comedic, classic monologue to auditions.  (Avoid monologues from this show.)  Audition will also include some cold readings and scene work.  Email contact below for information about sides.  Head shot and resume welcome, though not required.  Bring a calendar to auditions in order to note rehearsal conflicts.

REHEARSALS: Rehearsals will run from mid-September through October at Floorspace Arts located at 3041 Indianola Ave., Columbus, OH.  Mondays and Thursdays 7-9pm, Wednesdays 8:30-10:30pm, Saturdays 1-4pm.  Tech rehearsals begin November 1-5 at historic Groveport Town Hall, 648 Main St., Groveport, OH.

PERFORMANCES: November 6-14, Fridays and Saturdays at 7pm, Sunday at 2pm with a post-show talkback at Groveport Town Hall.  Special dinner performance Sunday, November 15 at Ravenwood Castle in Hocking Hills.  Special dinner performance at Elks Lodge in Lancaster on Saturday, November 21.  More performances may be added.

CONTACT: For further information contact the director, Danielle Mari, at educationdirector@rosebriarshakespeare.org or visit the website.

D3– Musical Theater Ensemble

Based on the child’s age at the time of the audition: 9-10 year olds - Sunday, August 16 at 5:00pm; 11-12 year olds Sunday, August 16 6:30p; 13 years old and up - Monday, August 17 at 6:00pm at Floorspace Arts, 3041 Indianola Avenue, Columbus

D3 is an innovative youth ensemble dedicated to fostering the triple threat skills of dancing, singing, and acting in 9-17 year olds serious about theater arts. A 10-month commitment to a calendar of rehearsals and performances leads each cast member on a journey of enrichment led by Artistic Director and Choreographer Billy Bruce with Music Director Pam Welsh-Huggins. This year there will also be a D3 Jr. group for youth from 9-11.

Bring a current resume and photo; a snapshot is acceptable. Auditionees should be dressed and prepared to dance. (No baggies clothes) For the vocal audition please prepare 16 bars of a song that shows off your voice. Bring the sheet music as an accompanist will be provided; no a cappella, tapes, or cds. Please bring your own water bottle. Call backs are scheduled for Wednesday, August 19th.

Rehearsals are held at Floorspace Arts on Sundays and Thursdays. However, during September & October the Thursday rehearsals will be on Tuesdays due to studio scheduling. D3 Jr. will rehearse on Sunday only.

If you have questions or require specific information, please contact Teri Haynes at 771-0951.

Actors needed for cold readings at new works retreat from Aug 17-22 at 7:00pm nightly at Drake Performance and Event Center

Members of the International Centre for Women Playwrights inviting Central Ohio actors to join in the fun of performing and developing whatever the writers are working on that day.

More info at www.icwpohioretreat.blogspot.com or contact Alan Woods at 614/371-4125

Available Light Theatre’s “Church”

Singers needed August 13 – 21 at Studio 2 @ the Vern Riffe Center. 77 South High Street

We need YOU… and all your friends who can sing to help us. The show calls for a 30-50 member choir to sing at the end of the show. The song, “Ain’t Got Time to Die” will be directed by the fearless Dani Mann and will require minimal rehearsal time. While this is a volunteer position - we would love to invite you to see the show (on a night you aren’t singing) for FREE.

Simply choose TWO rehearsal nights from August 8-12 @ 7pm

Fear not, your commitment need not be for all 9 shows in the run - you need only commit to those shows you are available for - no more, no less. However… ideally we will create a “CORE” group of singers (10-12) committed to for each full weekend. Let me know if you are interested in being in the CORE. Choose the performance dates you are available for: Aug 13-15, 20-22 @8p; Aug 16 @ 2pm; Aug 19 @ 5:30p; Aug 21 @ 12p

Please contact Michelle Whited, Stage Manager at michellewhited@gmail.com. Also, check out http://avltheatre.com/index.php/site/church/

Emerald City Players will be holding auditions for…

“On Golden Pond”

By: Ernest Thompson

Director: Tina Gleason

Performances: October 9 – October 24, 2009

Auditions:        Sunday, August 23, 2009 - 7:00 PM

Monday, August4, 2009 - 7:00 PM

Auditions will be reading from the script.

In addition, a prepared monologue is required.

Norman Thayer, Jr.- A witty, blunt, loveable man in his late 70’s. Very

aware of his own mortality. Showing signs of early senility, but covers it

up with a strong personality. He appears rude and grumpy, to hide his fear

of physically not being able to do all the things he did when he was

young.

Ethel Thayer- Norman’s wife. In her late 60’s. A spunky woman full of

energy and optimism. She notices and appreciates every detail of life.

Charlie Martin- In his 40’s. Has known the Thayer family for years. Has

had a crush on Chelsea for many years, but always too quiet, or awkward to

pursue anything. He is a heavy, cheerful man, who is comfortable with his

surroundings.

Chelsea Thayer Wayne- Only child of Norman and Ethel. In her 40’s. She

carries years of resentment toward her parents in different ways. She has

never felt love from her father and although she has similar personality

traits, she will fight to never become like him.

Bill Ray-Chelsea’s boyfriend. Mid to late 40’s. Respectful, trusting  and

kind, yet stands up for what he holds dear.

Billy Ray- Bills son.  A restless, angry teenager. Does and says what he

can to get a reaction. Loves his parents, though resentful of their

divorce. Is constantly bounced around and untrusting as a result.

Bring Headshot and Resume if Available (not mandatory)

Auditions will take place at the

Emerald City Theater, 6799 Dublin Center Dr,

in the Dublin Village Shopping Center.