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Friday, January 31, 2014

NEW THEATER COMPANY STAGES COMEDY ABOUT THE MOB

A Professional Theatre Company in Bergen County New Jersey

BREAKING LEGS
By Tom Dulack
Directed by Lou Scarpati

WHEN: Feb 7, 8, 9, 14, 15, 16; Fridays & Saturdays at 8:00 PM; Sundays at 3:30 PM
WHERE:
The Hackensack Cultural Arts Center, 39 Broadway, Hackensack, NJ
TICKETS: $19 at the door
For full details please check out  www.theatrecompany.biz

What happens when a playwright, who needs investors for his new play, meets some mobsters want to walk the “red carpet”?

Starring Teddy Coluca, Joe Curran, Andrew Lionetti, Matthew Shepard, Andrea Prendamano & David Russo

Wednesday, January 29, 2014

GUEST REVIEW: “ADMIT ONE” MORE THAN CAPABLY UPHOLDS NJ REP’S 17-YEAR HISTORY OF PROVIDING NEW PLAYS IN OUTSTANDING PRODUCTIONS

Reviewed by Michael Mooney, writing in the NJ Examiner, January 24, 2014

The words Admit One are usually found on a ticket stub, but banish all thoughts of a backstage comedy when taking in NJ Rep's latest offering by Wendy Yondorf. Instead, the play comically questions to what lengths a responsible parent will go to get their child into a good school.

 Ames Adamson and Catherine LaFrereSet in a hotel suite at New York's Waldorf Astoria, the two-hander pits tightly wound admission officer Mary Sue (Catherine LaFrere) against fastidious Howard (Ames Adamson), a wealthy dad looking to do whatever it takes to get his son into prestigious Giddings University. Giddings is a Yondorf creation, a fictional ivy league school that only admits the best-of-the-best, with vigilant Mary Sue guardian of just who makes the cut and who doesn't. Desperate Howard will do whatever he must to assure his wayward son a spot, including asking Mary Sue to bend (ok, break) the rules.

Under the capable direction of Karen Carpenter (whose Steel Magnolias warmed hearts at Paper Mill Playhouse in 2008), the play announces its comic intentions from the very start when nervous Mary Sue scopes out the site of her meeting with Howard, a Giddings grad and donor. Carpenter infuses the action with broad visual humor and rapid-fire pacing that keeps the audience laughing even when Yondorf's verbal wit sometimes sags.

The playwright's wry observations about the mis-use of language are amusing enough, especially in the mouth of LaFrere's manic Mary Sue, as are her disparaging digs at popular schools (“New Jersey kids are Princeton's problem!”). Speaking of the Garden State, for this Jersey boy there were one too many Jersey jokes, including a groan-inducing reference to “Bridgegate.”

 Ames Adamson (r) and Catherine LaFrere (l)LaFrere's Mary Sue earns plenty of laughs from her severe case of OCD. Her expressive features and sharp comic timing are reminiscent of a young Carol Burnett, exhaustively mining each moment for maximum humor. Adamson's Howard superbly bridges the gap between Carpenter's broad staging and Yondorf's verbal wit. With his natty pinstripe suit and neatly trimmed beard, Adamson is the very picture of a Donald Trump-like powerhouse.

Despite the sometimes silly physical comedy (including an unraveled roll of toilet paper), Adamson keeps his character grounded and believable even during an unexpected plot twist near the end of the intermission-less 95 minute play.

Technically, the show is flawlessly designed, starting with Jessica Parks' luxuriously appointed hotel room. Patricia E. Doherty's costumes are suitably tailored, and Jim Nagle's lighting is similarly flawless. Even Merek Royce Press's sound design proved impressive, with comically timed cell phone rings, en-suite Muzak, and champagne corks popping.

Performances are Thursdays, Fridays at 8:00 pm; Saturdays at 3:00 pm and 8:00 pm; and Sundays at 2:00 pm.

Tickets are $40; Discounts are available for seniors, students, and groups of 10 or more. NJ Rep is a year-round, professional, non-profit theater located at 179 Broadway in Long Branch only minutes from the Jersey Shore. Free on-site parking is available and there is easy access from NJ Transit (North Jersey Coast Line) and Academy Buses.

Contact the NJ Rep Box Office at 732.229.3166 or visit www.njrep.org to reserve your seats online.

Photos by NJ Rep/Suzanne Barabas.

GUEST REVIEW: IMPRESSIVE “MASTER CLASS” AT THE BARN THEATRE IN MONTVILLE

I was unable to review Master Class at the Barn Theatre, so I am running a guest review by Rick Busciglio of NJ Examiner:

    Scene from Master Class- Carla Kendall and Ken MagosIf you were fortunate enough to see the remarkable production of playwright Ken Ludwig's very funny Lend Me A Tenor at the Barn Theatre in Montville, New Jersey in 2012, you would have marveled, as I did, at the professional level in all areas; cast, sets, costumes, lighting, etc. of the production,

    Remarkable in particular since The Barn Theatre is a non-equity community theatre (translation: no actor is paid....they perform for the love of the theatre). Here is part of my review of the performance on March 18, 2012: "Back to the wonderful cast of community players, all performing for the pure love of the stage; Carla Kendell excels as Diane, the opera singer ready to advance her career via the casting couch, in this case, the bed."

    Carla Kendell (above, with Ken Magos as Manny) is back on that stage again as an opera singer, but this time center stage giving a master class in acting, in the aptly named Master Class. The Tony award-winning play, of course, is by Terrence McNally and is based on a series of master classes given by fiery opera diva Maria Callas at Julliard in New York late in her career. Callas combines tough encouragement for her students with reflections on her great success on stage and equally great disappointments in her personal life, particularly her long term relationship with the Greek shipping tycoon Aristotle Onasssis.

    Scene from Master Classl-r: Ken Magos, Carla Kendall & Danielle C. PennisiThe role of Maria Callas is exceptionally demanding for an actress. This is her story, her play, she is on stage for the entire play. The five other roles in Master Class could be likened to opera spear-carriers....important, but vastly over shadowed by the star...and Kendall is the star in every sense of the word. To say she is simply "terrific," is an understatement. She is marvelous. Always in full control of the emotional roller-coaster the demanding part requires. Sadly, you only have two more chances to see Carla Kendall in her role of a lifetime (Friday and Saturday at 8 PM).

    Now, let's not slight the fine supporting cast...there is no show without them. First, as the rehearsal hall pianist Manny is Ken Magos, a professional opera singer who teaches singing in real life. Magos' Manny is a perfect contrast to the temperamental Callas. He is steady, always professional and an impressive pianist. Kelly Miller is spot-on as Sophie (a/k/a Soprano #1) with a wonderful "deer-in-the headlights" look to go with her fine voice. Danielle C. Pennisi (Above, right) nicely displays her considerable acting talent, in addition to impressive vocal talent as Sharon (Soprano #2). Jeffrey Dopson has the tenor role. He gives "Tony" a nice comic presence while displaying his fine voice. The stern master class proceedings of diva Callas is punctured throughout the play by the short, but funny, appearances of the stage hand who displays absolutely no interest in the goings-on of the world-famous singer. The part is perfectly played by Claudia Metz, who just happens to be the production's stage manager.

    Scene from Master Class-Carla KendallMajor applause to Roseann Ruggiero as director and ring master of this outstanding production. Ruggerio is a longtime contributor at The Barn. In the spring of 2012, she directed the remarkable Sondheim musical Assasins.

    Ruggiero's creative team also deserve a round of applause for their key efforts: Lillian Miller costumes; Beau Kennedy set design/decor; Jeff Knapp sound design; Todd Mills lighting design; Jeff Kinkead and John Frangione lighting/sound operation; Geraldine Baillod props. Lillian Miller and Geraldine Baillod are the co-producers.

    The Barn Theatre is located at 32 Skyline Drive in Montville, New Jersey. To contact box office personal via voice mail call 973.334.9320. Visit website at http://www.barntheatre.org/.

    Photos by Joe Gigli.

    Tuesday, January 28, 2014

    COMEDIAN TO PERFORM @ MAYO ARTS CENTER IN MORRISTOWN

    030513_Bobby_Collins_JAS-0001BOBBY COLLINS

    WHEN: Friday, February 7, at 8 PM
    WHERE:
    Mayo Performing Arts Center, 100 South Street, Morristown
    TICKETS: $39-59

    Comedian Bobby Collins, a storyteller whose heartfelt humor engages audiences with a hilarious blend of characterizations to which everyone can relate, performs at the Mayo Performing Arts Center.  This event contains mature themes and language.

    Monday, January 27, 2014

    INTIMATE CONCERT OF CARLEBACH MUSIC @ AXELROD PAC

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    WHEN: Saturday, Feb. 8, 8 PM
    WHERE:
    Axelrod PAC, 100 Grant Ave., Deal Park
    TICKETS: $25 adults, $22 seniors, $15 groups and students
    Click This Link Now to Order Online Tickets  TICKETS NOW!

    Friday, January 24, 2014

    BEATLES TRIBUTE BAND TO APPEAR IN ENGLEWOOD

    Fab Four

    THE FAB FOUR

    WHEN: Friday February 7, at 8 PM
    WHERE:
    bergenPAC, 30 N. Van Brunt Street, Englewood
    TICKETS: $65, $55, $45, & $35
    Tickets available at www.ticketmaster.com or www.bergenpac.org or Box Office 201.227.1030

    The Fab Four is elevated far above every other Beatles Tribute due to their precise attention to detail. With uncanny, note-for-note live renditions of Beatles’ songs, the Fab Four will make you think you’re are watching the real thing. Hear record-perfect live performances of such classics as “Can’t Buy Me Love,” “Yesterday,” “A Day In The Life,” “Penny Lane,” “Here Comes The Sun,”and “Hey Jude.”

    About bergenPAC
    Founded in 2003, the 1,367-seat Bergen Performing Arts Center, or bergenPAC, is the area’s cultural mecca. Housed in a historic Art Deco-style theater boasting one of the finest acoustic halls in the United States, bergenPAC attracts a stellar roster of world-class entertainment. The jewel in our crown is The Performing Arts School at bergenPAC – the innovative, educational performing arts initiative that reaches more than 30,000 students annually. The Performing Arts School provides community youth, age 2 months to 21 years, with unique, “hands-on” training in music, dance and theater by industry professionals. It is through the ongoing generosity of sponsors, donors and patrons that the not-for-profit 501 (c)(3) corporation bergenPAC and The Performing Arts School are able to thrive and enrich our community.

    EVP PRESENTS DURANG LAMPOON OF THEATER IN 6 ONE-ACT PARODIES

    Historic Edison Valley Playhouse proudly presents

    Christopher Durang Lampoons Theater

    A night of six biting one-act parodies by Christopher Durang, the author of the 2013 Tony Award-winning Best Play Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike

    For Whom the Southern Belle Tolls

    Mrs. Sorken

    Lunch in the Russian Tea Room

    Desire, Desire, Desire

    Medea! the play

    The Actor’s Nightmare

    Directed by David Christopher

    WHEN: January 24 – February 8, Friday & Saturday at 8 PM, Sunday February 2, at 2 PM
    WHERE: Edison Valley Playhouse, 2196 Oak Tree Road Edison, New Jersey
    TICKETS: Adults $15, Students & Senior Citizens $12To reserve and pay for your tickets online To reserve and pay for your tickets online
    click here
    To reserve your tickets for pick up and payment at the box office on the night of the show call 908.755.4654
    Visit our website:
    http://www.evplayhouse.com/

    (Top: Judi Laganga, Mike Burdick; Left: Gloria Lamoureux, Ross Poling; Right: Kristina Hernandez, Dave Duncan, Danielle Levitt)

    MUSIC FROM GHETTO CABARETS @ AXELROD PAC

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    WHEN: Feb. 2, 2 PM
    WHERE:
    Axelrod PAC, 100 Grant Ave., Deal Park
    TICKETS: $25 adults, $23 seniors, $15 groups and students
    Click This Link Now to Order Online Tickets  TICKETS NOW!

    HAIFA SYMPHONY OF ISRAEL TO PERFORM @ bergenPAC

    haifa-symphony-israel-spHaifa Symphony Orchestra of Israel

    WHEN: Wednesday February 5, at 8 PM
    WHERE:
    bergenPAC, 30 N. Van Brunt St., Englewood
    TICKETS: $69, $59, $49, & $39
    Tickets available at: www.ticketmaster.com or www.bergenpac.org or
    Box Office 201.227.1030

    The Haifa Symphony Orchestra of Israel was founded in 1950 and in recent years has become the focal point of musical life in Haifa and the north of Israel. The Orchestra, which is the most significant musical institute in the north of Israel, has recently expanded its activities throughout the country. World Acclaimed Maestro Noam Sheriff, one of Israel's most versatile musicians, is the music director of the HSO.

    About bergenPAC

    Founded in 2003, the 1,367-seat Bergen Performing Arts Center, or bergenPAC, is the area’s cultural mecca. Housed in a historic Art Deco-style theater boasting one of the finest acoustic halls in the United States, bergenPAC attracts a stellar roster of world-class entertainment. The jewel in our crown is The Performing Arts School at bergenPAC – the innovative, educational performing arts initiative that reaches more than 30,000 students annually. The Performing Arts School provides community youth, age 2 months to 21 years, with unique, “hands-on” training in music, dance and theater by industry professionals. It is through the ongoing generosity of sponsors, donors and patrons that the not-for-profit 501 (c)(3) corporation bergenPAC and The Performing Arts School are able to thrive and enrich our community.

    Wednesday, January 22, 2014

    SOUTH AFRICAN MASTERPIECE ON STAGE @ LUNA

    In commemoration of The 20th Anniversary of Freedom Day in South Africa, Luna Stage is proud to present

    MASTER HAROLD…AND THE BOYS
    By Athol Fugard
    Directed by Reginald L. Douglas

    WHEN: January 30 through March 2; Thursdays @ 7:30 PM; Fridays and Saturdays @ 8 PM; Sundays @ 3 PM 
    WHERE:
    Luna Stage, 555 Valley Road, West Orange
    TICKETS: $25-$35; $10 Student tickets with ID
    Groups sale discounts available.
    Purchase online anytime, by phone (973.395.5551) or in person Tuesday through Friday 10 AM-3 PM

    A searing coming of age story about a white teen who has grown up in the affectionate company of the  two black waiters who work in his mother's tea room in Port Elizabeth. When he learns that his viciously racist alcoholic father is on his way home from the hospital, an ensuing rage unwittingly triggers his inevitable passage into the culture of hatred fostered by apartheid.

    "One of those depth charge plays that has lasting relevance and can triumphantly survive any test of time... The story is simple, but the resonance that Fugard brings to it lets it reach beyond the narrative, to touch so many nerves connected to betrayal and guilt. An exhilarating play... It is a triumph of playmaking, and unforgettable." — The New York Post

    CLICK ON THE IMAGE TO HEAR JAMIL SPEAK ABOUT THE PLAY.....<br />

    Jamil A. C. Mangan as "Sam"

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    CLICK ON THE IMAGE TO HEAR TONY SPEAK ABOUT THE PLAY....<br />Tony Knotts as "Hally"

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    CLICK ON THE IMAGE TO HEAR BEETHOVAN SPEAK ABOUT THE PLAY....<br />Beethovan Oden as "Willie"

    IRONBOUND COMMUNITY CORPORATION EXHIBIT OPENS TONIGHT

     

    Ironbound Community Corporation

    PICTURING JUSTICE
    a photo history of the struggle for environmental justice and an improved quality of life in the Ironbound

    WHEN: Wednesday, February 5, at 6:00 PM
    WHERE:
    Newark Public Library, 140 Van Buren Street, Newark
    Please RSVP to: NZak@Ironboundcc.org
    Call: 973.589.3353 ext. 202 for more information

     


    This exhibit was made possible by a grant from the New Jersey Council for the Humanities, a state partner of the National Endowment for the Humanities. Any views, findings, conclusions or recommendations in this exhibit do not necessarily represent those of the National Endowment for the Humanities or the New Jersey Council for the Humanities.

     

    icc logo small
    ICC services nearly 1,000 clients daily and touches the lives of thousands more annually through its programs and initiatives. To make a donation to support our work, please click below or visit us at www.ironboundcc.org.
    please_give_hdr.jpg

       
     
     

    YALE U. A CAPPELLA GROUP TO APPEAR AT LIVINGSTON TEMPLE

    magevet2014SHABBAT B’SHIR:
    Magevet of Yale University

    WHEN: Friday, January 31, 7:30 PM
    WHERE: Temple B’nai Abraham, 300 E. Northfield Rd., Livingston (entrance on E. Cedar Street)
    ADMISSION: Free and open to the public
    For information call 973.994.2290 . Visit the TBA website at www.tbanj.org.

    Temple B'nai Abraham will hold a Shabbat B’Shir (a musical Shabbat Service) and present Magevet, Yale University's a cappella group dedicated to singing Jewish, Hebrew and Israeli music.

    Founded in 1993, Magevet is known for their unique, diverse repertoire; their sweet and sophisticated vocal blend and their spunky, lighthearted sense of humor. The group sings everything from Renaissance pieces to Yemenite dance tunes to modern Israeli pop (not to mention a 5/4 ode to a coffeepot a la Dave Brubeck).

    When the group is not in New Haven serenading the Yale campus, Magevet tours the United States and the world, sharing their warmth and enthusiasm with Jewish communities both near and far.

    A typical Magevet concert brings together the music of a wide range of Jewish experience, from the 15th century until the present. At the core of their  performances is their deep respect for the rich musical traditions that Judaism has inspired and their commitment to sharing the full range of this tradition with the Jewish community today.

    Most of their arrangements were written by members of the group. Current members are: Johanna Press, Isabel Singer. Leah Salovey, Katherine Mc Daniel, Esther Portynasky, Julia Rothchild, Nora May, Micah Sukol, Reed Morgan, Daniel Gordon, Scott Elliot Greenberg, Kyle Sevel and Josh Fitt.

    PERFORMANCES OF “AS YOU LIKE IT” BEGIN THIS WEEKEND @ TWO RIVER THEATER IN RED BANK

    Click here to learn more about the cast!

    Click here to learn more about AS YOU LIKE IT

    Click here to view details about these audience extras

    Click here to buy tickets!

    WEEKEND ACTIVITIES WITH THE CHILDREN’S MUSEUM @ PeopleCare

    FAMILY WINTER FUN @ FOSTERFIELDS FARM

    www.morrisparks.net

    Tuesday, January 21, 2014

    SHOW BASED ON PBS CHILDREN’S SERIES @ MAYO PERFORMING ARTS CENTER

    DTL_pressDinosaur Train Live!: Buddy’s Big Adventure

    WHEN: Sunday, January 26, at 1:30 PM and 4:30 PM
    WHERE: Mayo Performing Arts Center, 100 South St. Morristown
    TICKETS: $15-30
    Tickets at 973.539.8008 or www.mayoarts.org

    Come join Buddy, Tiny, Don and all of their friends and family in Jim Henson’s  Dinosaur Train Live!,  a fun-filled, interactive and immersive live trip back in time to an age when dinosaurs roamed the earth....and rode in trains!

    JIM HENSON'S DINOSAUR TRAIN LIVE: BUDDY'S BIG ADVENTURE embraces and celebrates the fascination that preschoolers have with both dinosaurs and trains. The show encourages basic scientific thinking skills as the audience learns about life science, natural history and paleontology.

    TEANECK’S BLACK BOX STUDIO’S ENSEMBLE CASTING FOR SUPPORTING ROLES IN REMAINDER OF SEASON

    AUDITION NOTICE:

    The Teaneck-based Black Box Studios' Ensemble (Into The Woods, Summer Brave, Tommy, Next To Normal) is currently casting for select supporting roles for the remainder of its 2013-14 season.

    WHEN: Auditions by appointment only between now and 1/26.
    WHERE:
    Shows currently scheduled to rehearse in Teaneck and/or at the Performing Arts School at bergenPAC in Englewood.

    Please submit directly to Matt Okin, Artistic Director, at matt@blacboxnynj.com and use the subject line: BBS Ensemble Casting. No calls please. Non-union/no pay. www.blackboxnynj.com.

    John Guare's House of Blue Leaves

    Comedic "character" roles in House are

    • Corrina Stroller: female/age-range 22–35
    • Billy Einhorn: male/age-range 40–55

    Rehearsals start 1/29 (occasional Sun./Mon./Wed. evenings)

    Performances: last weekend in March and first in April.

    William Finn/James Lapine's Falsettos Falsettos roles are

    • male swing: age-range 25–35,
    • baritones/tenors
    • Cordelia: female/age-range 20-35, soprano

    Rehearsals begin end of February

    Performances over a 10-day period in mid-to-late May.

    Opened by Matt Okin in 2007, Black Box Studios operates at, and in partnership with, BergenPAC’s Performance Arts School in Englewood, NJ and in its home-base space within Congregation Beth Sholom in Teaneck.  See more at: http://www.blackboxnynj.com/#sthash.RUghxdsB.dpuf

    REVIEW: NJ SYMPHONY MAYO CONCERT UNITES TAN DUN, MAHLER

    Sheila and Oreo

    What makes a sound music? What makes an object a musical instrument? And can a European composer inspired by an Asian culture inspire an Asian composer to create something that marries both traditions?

    These were among the many questions brought to mind by the exceptional program presented last weekend by the New Jersey Symphony Orchestra under the baton of Maestro Jacques Lacombe.

    The Mayo Center in Morristown was the site of the Sunday performance, which had been presented Friday and Saturday at two other venues.

    The two pieces on the program were more than a century and several continents apart, their differences vivid and unmistakable. Yet they were intimately related. Tan Dun’s Earth Concerto, the first half of the program, is like an offspring of Mahler’s Das Lied Von Der Erde (The Song of the Earth), performed after intermission.

    Earth Concerto, having its US premiere in the NJSO’s three weekend performances, is the fourth work in Tan Dun’s series devoted to man and nature. The first, the Water Concerto, was presented by NJSO four years ago during its Winter Festival, and the Earth Concerto concludes the cycle.

    “I have always believed that earth, like other natural elements, holds a deep spirit, speaking with a language all its own, singing and vibrating alongside all beings…,” the composer has said. This concerto is for instruments not normally thought of as musical instruments.

    At the forefront, and placed where the first violins would normally be, was an array of ceramic and clay pots (purchased at the Metropolitan Plant and Flower Exchange in Bergen County—yes, they are flower pots!). Played by striking with an assortment of mallets and so forth by three master percussionists, David Cossin, James Musto and James Neglia, they redefine what a musical instrument is.

    Also performing as a soloist was Zhang Meng, a virtuoso on a variety of traditional Chinese ceramic wind instruments. Meanwhile, the first violin section played standing at the back of the stage, behind the other musicians.

    Were the sounds strange? Yes, at times. There were thumps and shouts, as well as exquisite bell-like melodies from the percussions. (I learned that glazed pots have a completely different sound from unglazed terra cotta.) Percussionist David Cossin said, “Tan Dun is interested in finding music in almost anything around us.”

    Tan Dun, born in 1957 in Hunan Province, is perhaps China’s best-known composer in the west. Trained in both traditional Chinese music and western music, he is a prolific composer. In 2000, his score for the movie Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon, won an Academy Award©, a Grammy and a BAFTA award. He literally quotes from Mahler’s song cycle in the Earth Concerto, which he created to commemorate the hundredth anniversary of Das Lied Von Der Erde. The pairing of the two works on one program could hardly have been more appropriate.

    Though the Mahler piece is a set of six songs, performed by a large orchestra and two singers, Mahler himself subtitled it A Symphony for Tenor and Alto (or Baritone) Voices and Orchestra. Divided into six movements, each a song, it runs nearly an hour. Each song is a setting of a Chinese poem, translated into German. The Sturm und Drang of German Romanticism, the obsession with love and death, dominate, though the piece was composed in 1907-08, well past the heyday of the Romantic period.

    The mood is set by the first song, Das Trinklied vom Jammer der Erde, or The Drinking Song of the Earth’s Misery, a melodic paean to sorrow sung by the tenor soloist Russell Thomas. The words to each song paint a picture. A little imagination may bring to mind a pavilion in a garden, rendered in blue on white porcelain. Do the lovers come together joyfully? Is death just around the corner?

    Joining Thomas, a powerful and sensitive interpreter of the songs, was the exquisitely gifted mezzo-soprano Elizabeth Bishop, whose voice resonated like a bell through the auditorium, as she sang the final phrase of the sixth song, Der Abschied (The Farewell): “Ewig, ewig…” (“Forever, forever…”). Our time is short but the earth endures. Gorgeous concert!

    Monday, January 20, 2014

    CIRCLE PLAYERS TO PRESENT “HOW I LEARNED TO DRIVE”

    circle players logoHOW I LEARNED TO DRIVE
    a Pulitzer Prize-winning play by Paula Vogel
    Directed by John Dowgin of Spotswood
    Produced by Loren Manheimer of Aberdeen

    WHEN: Jan. 24-Feb. 8, Fridays and Saturdays, 8 PM; Sunday matinee on Feb. 9, 3 PM; A wine and cheese reception will follow the opening night performance.
    WHERE:
    416 Victoria Ave., Piscataway
    TICKETS: $18 for adults and $17 for students and seniors.
    Sorry, no credit cards may be used at the box office, but will be accepted online.
    For reservations, call 732.968.7555, or buy tickets online at http://www.circleplayers.com/ ($1 per ticket discount online.)
    Due to mature themes, this production is not suitable for audience members under 16.

    circleplayers001001.gifHow I Learned to Drive is a darkly funny and devastating tale of survival; a view into a troubling relationship between a young girl and an older man. The 1960s pop music accompanying Li’l Bit’s excursion down memory lane cannot drown out the ghosts of her past.

    Appearing in the cast are Faith Dowgin, Spotswood; Todd Jones, Colonia; Kristen Bennett, Montville; Heidi Hart, Maplewood; and Michael Sundburg, Warren.

    Because of the unique layout of the theater, latecomers cannot be seated once the performance has started. Please plan to arrive at least 15 minutes before curtain.

    STUDIO PLAYERS HOLDS AUDITIONS FOR ROCK MUSICAL

    AUDITION NOTICE

    spring awakeningSPRING AWAKENING 
    A Rock Musical based on the play by Frank Wedekind
    Book and Lyrics by Steven Sater
    Music by Duncan Sheik
    Director: Claudia Budris
    Assistant Director & Choreographer: Lynsey Leigh Price
    Music Director: Jim Millar
    Stage Manager: Leyda Torres

    WHEN: Mon. Feb. 3rd at 7:30 PM; Wed. Feb. 5th at 7:30 PM; Callbacks Thur. Feb. 6th at 7:30 PM
    WHERE:
    STUDIO PLAYERS, 14 Alvin Place, Upper Montclair ~ 973.744.9752
    www.studioplayhouse.org ~ www.facebook.com/studioplayhouse.org

    Performance Dates: May 30 - June 14
    (There will be rehearsals on the Sunday & Monday evenings of Memorial Day weekend)

    • Sides & Scores can be viewed at www.studioplayhouse.org
    • Prepare 32 bars of a song from this show. An accompanist will be provided.
    • Be prepared to note all conflict dates and if you have any special physical skills and/or talents.

    Casting talented vocalists with strong acting abilities.

    Strong language and strong sexual situations

    CAST OF CHARACTERS

    ADULT MAN (Male, 35+): Needs to be able to play multiple characters with distinction; ensemble singing only; plays all adult male roles: HERR STIEFL (Mortiz's father), HERR GABOR (Melchior's Father), HERR SONNENSTICH (boys teacher), HERR KNOCHENBRUCH (boys headmaster), HERR RILOW (Hanschen’s father), HERR NEUMANN (Ilse’s Father), FATHER KAULBACH (Priest), DOCTOR VON BRAUSEPULVER (Doctor) and SCHMIDT (matron)

    ADULT WOMAN (female, 35+): Needs to be able to play multiple characters with distinction; ensemble singing only; plays all adult female roles: FRAU GABOR (Melchior's mother), FRAU BERGMAN (Wendla's mother), FRAULEIN KNUPPELDICK (associate to headmaster Herr Knochenbruch), FRAULEIN GROSSEBUSTENHALTER (Georg’s Piano teacher) and FRAU BESSELL (Martha’s Mother)

    ANNA (female, 18-late 20s): German schoolgirl and Martha's best friend; has a difficult time understanding Martha's trials.

    ERNST (male, 18-late 20s): Schoolmate of Melchior's; naïve; easily manipulated; unsure; must be comfortable kissing another male; baritenor

    GEORG (male, 18-late 20s): Schoolmate of Melchoir's who is overcome with his feelings for his piano teacher; tenor and needs to be able to sing up to a D5 in falsetto

    HANSCHEN (male, 18-late 20s): Schoolmate of Melchior's who is comfortable with his own sexuality and uses his looks and intelligence to manipulate Ernst; must be comfortable kissing another male;baritenor

    ILSE (female, 18-late 20s): Martha's sister who shares her dark secret; run away from home to live in an artists' colony; free-spirit; Moritz's last hope

    MARTHA (female, 18-late 20s): Ilse’s sister; a schoolgirl with a dark secret; terrified of disobeying her father

    MELCHIOR (male, 18-late 20s): Smart, headstrong boy who refuses to bow down to society's rules; an atheist; struggles with his intense feelings for Wendla; Moritz’s best friend and confidant; strong acting abilities a must

    MORITZ (male, 18-late 20s): Troubled student who desperately tries to please his father, but always seems to disappoint him; has haunting dreams; curious about sex; Melchior's best friend; strong acting abilities a must; tenor

    OTTO (male, 18-late 20s): Classmate of Melchior's who struggles with feelings he considers inappropriate; baritenor

    THEA (female, 18-late 20s): Wendla's best friend; a schoolgirl who tries to stay innocent and pure.

    WENDLA (female, 18-late 20s): Innocent, but with every passing day, she grows more curious about the world around her; both vulnerable and a willing participant in her evolution; strong acting abilities a must

    STRANGEDOG’S “ENCHANTED ARMS” ONLY 2 MORE WEEKENDS @ LUNA STAGE

    Actor, Seth Michael Photo Credit: Rachael Tucker. <br />StrangeDog's Enchanted Arms

    Five new short plays placing age old fairy-tales in a single dilapidated modern apartment building. These classic stories have been turned on their heads, the rules of their world have changed, and Prince Charming has developed a drinking problem. Directed by Artem Yatsunov
    Written by Nikkole Salter, Stacie Lents, John Wooten, Joseph Palestina and Ben Clawson

    WHEN: Thursday January 16th at 8:00 PM
    Friday January 17th at 8:00 PM
    Saturday January 18th at 8:00 PM
    Sunday January 19th at 3:00 PM
    Thursday January 23rd at 8:00 PM
    Friday January 24th at 8:00 PM
    Saturday January 25th at 8:00 PM
    WHERE:
    Luna Stage Studio Theatre, 555 Valley Road, West Orange
    TICKETS: $25. Student Tickets $10
    CLICK HERE for more information and tickets

    Above: Actor, Seth Michael Photo Credit: Rachael Tucker

    JUNGLE GYM JAM LAUNCHES ALBUM @ PARTY IN MONTCLAIR

    BITTY BOX MARKETING PRESENTS

    JUNGLE GYM JAM ALBUM LAUNCH PARTY

    We promised to continue to bring you the coolest events in family entertainment and Jason Didner's "Jungle Gym Jam" band's music will get the entire family groovin to the beat. Juggling by "The New Captain Kangaroo" will keep you mesmerized, & Fancy Face and Places will brighten every kid’s smile.

    GREAT FAMILY MUSIC AND MORE..

    WHEN: Sunday, January 26, 11:30 AM – 2 PM
    WHERE: Just Jake’s, 30 Park Street, Montclair
    TICKETS: Adults $7 advance, $10 door; Kids 3+ $5 advance, $7 door; Kids under 2, Free

    Register   junglegymjam.ticketleap.com/everyonesinvited/ or call 201.838.1205

     

    SVP SEEKS ACTORS/SINGERS FOR DOLLY PARTON MUSICAL

    Somerset Valley Player's Theater

    AUDITION NOTICE:

    9 to 5 the Musical Logo

    9 to 5 the Musical
    Music and Lyrics by Dolly Parton
    Book by Patricia Resnick
    Directed by Christian Carrara

    WHEN: Sunday, January 26th and Monday, January 27th at 7:00 PM. Callbacks will be Wednesday, January 29th at 7:00 PM also at the church
    WHERE: Neshanic Reformed Church, 715 Amwell Road, Hillsborough. (at the 3 way stop just down the street from the theater.) For directions to the theater click here

    The show runs Fridays and Saturdays at 8 PM and Sundays at 2 PM
    April 25th through May 11th 2014.

    For further information call 908.369.7469

    Dolly Parton's high-spirited musical adaptation of the hit movie 9 TO 5 shows the gleeful revenge of the office workers, as three hardworking and very clever secretaries create corporate chaos while gladly turning the tables upside-down on their sexist and loudmouth boss.

    CHARACTERS NEEDED:

    • Violet Newstead
      Female 40-50
      The company's Head Secretary and Mr. Hart's Administrative Assistant, she is a single mother and typically stands up for what she believes in. Attractive, strong, ambitious.
    • Doralee Rhodes
      Female 20-30
      A young, sexy spitfire who works at Mr. Hart's office. She is proof that there is more to a woman than just her looks.
    • Judy Bernly
      Female 30-40
      The "new" girl at the firm, she has been burned by her husband's affair and is searching for personal empowerment. Insecure, determined, hopeful.
    • Franklin Hart Jr.
      Male 30-50
      One of the firm's executives and a notorious chauvinist. He is capable of faking charm but usually shows his true colors as an arrogant, self-absorbed boss.
    • Roz Keith
      Female 30-60
      The attentive office gossip queen and snitch. She has an unrequited love for Mr. Hart and will do anything she can to win his approval.
    • (6) Female Ensemble
      Female 25-60
      Various other secretaries, hospital workers, and even some woodland creatures. Ensemble members will take on various roles and must at least move well.
    • (6) Male Ensemble
      Male 25-60
      Various other businessmen, law enforcement, as well as husbands or boyfriends. Ensemble members will take on various roles and must at least move well.

    NEIL SIMON’S BITTERSWEET “LOST IN YONKERS” NOW PLAYING @ SOMERSET VALLEY PLAYERS

    Somerset Valley Player's Theater

    LOST IN YONKERS
    By Neil Simon
    Directed by Todd Bennington

    WHEN: January 17 - February 2; Friday & Saturday, 8 PM; Sunday, 2 PM 
    WHERE:
    689 Amwell Road (Rte 514), Hillsborough
    TICKETS: Adults $18; Seniors/Students $16
    A $2 per ticket processing fee will be added to all ticket sales.
    CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE TICKETS

    Neil Simon’s Pulitzer Prize winning bittersweet coming-of-age tale
    contrasts the tender highs and the unforeseen lows of family ties during
    World War Two, as two young brothers are left by their traveling
    salesman father to live with their stern Old World grandmother, a childlike
    yet loving aunt in search of life-changing romance, and a small-time mobster uncle.

    WEDNESDAYS GET ARTSY @ FARMSTEAD ARTS IN BASKING RIDGE

    Studio Art Classes Wednesday Afternoons
    with Anita McKenna-Murphy

    WHEN: February 5, 12, 19 and 26
    WHERE: Farmstead Arts, Martin Room, 450 King George Road, Basking Ridge
    TUITION: $125, supplies included

    • Homeschoolers (K – 8)  2 PM to 3 PM
    • After-schoolers (K – 8) 4 PM to 5 PM
    • Grown-Up Like-Minded Creative Types, 6 PM to 7 PM 

    Farmstead Arts at the KMS Farmstead is resuming classes with local artist and teacher Anita McKenna-Murphy for homeschooled children, after-schoolers and creative adults.

    Murphy is known for her tiny devotional paintings which represent the natural world in pastel.  Farmstead’s pristine setting provides wonderful inspiration to explore the arts both for children and adults.

    Sessions will be held monthly. Students need only to show up ready to have some fun in a supportive and gentle setting. 

    Register by phone at 973.590.8970 or e-mail at clubpob91@aol.com

    SMOOTH ROOT ROCK REGGAE @ UCPAC THIS WEEKEND

    JAH JAH YUTE
    An evening of smooth Root Rock Reggae

    WHEN: Friday • January 24 • 8:00 PM; Saturday • January 25 • 8:00 PM
    WHERE: Union Country Performing Arts Center Loft, 1601 Irving Street in the heart of the colorful Rahway Arts District, a diverse hub of arts performance/arts education activity
    TICKETS: $35 and are available online at www.ucpac.org, by calling 732.499.8226, or visiting the UCPAC box office at 1601 Irving Street, Rahway.

    A prolific recording artist in the Smooth Roots Reggae genre, Jah Jah Yute has released 11 albums since 2007 including Words Power on Sound, Jah Say So, Excellence Is Thy Name, Born Fi Jah and Iration.

    He was raised in rural Rock Springs, Jamaica, and was initially influenced by Jamaican performers such as Black Star Sound System, Jahlovemuzik, Bunny Wailer, Yellow Man and, of course, Bob Marley.

    Developing his own unique sound and lyrical style over the years, Jah Jah Yute’s music projects a positive message to contemporary problems and sparks a strong sense of hope.

    “My music is hitting the people,” he says. “The people are moving in a positive way. When people hear good music in person and most of all with the artist present, they stop and take notice.”

    Words Power on Sound by Jah Jah Yute is a beautifully prepared piece of musical artistry loaded with full-fleshed urban Reggae sounds. A few seconds into a listen of this CD, and you'll realize that Jah Jah is an impressive, authentic reggae artist. Jah Jah is a talented lyricist, with lyrics that are positively inspiring, informative and thoughtful. If you enjoy real urban reggae with rich sonorous energy and inspiring lyrics like that of Gregory Isaac and Bob Marley, you will enjoy this CD. “ — RadioIndy