2. TONY
AWARDS
2nd Annual Tony Awards Contest
This is way easier than trying to pick
your favorite bracket. If you have a
flair for knowing who will win at the
Tony’s, then you could clean up in
KC Stage swag. Prize includes a
one-year subscription to KC Stage.
Check out KC Stage’s main page at
www.kcstage.com and look for the
contest. The link will be up on June 1.
Be sure to register by noon on June 10.
And the award goes to...
4. Spotlight on Marcus Mull
by Jeanne Beechwood
Rumor has it the Martin City Melodrama is being tions and marketing our unique theatrical product. Even
renamed the Marcus City Melodrama. Is this true? when I am out of the office, I continue to think of show
This was originally a joke because every once in a while ideas and really enjoy that creative process that keeps
I would answer the box office phone at Martin City spinning and spinning.
with “Marcus City Melodrama, how may I help you?”.
When and where did you graduate from college?
Is that your job for the Martin City Melodrama, to I graduated from Sterling College, in Sterling, Kan.,
answer the phone? spring of 2011 with a BA in theatre communications.
I help Jeanne run the theatre business and act in all
the shows. So how did it happen, you weren’t out of college for
barely a year and now you are helping run Martin
Can you describe a typical day at work? City?
Running a small business has new surprises every day. It happened all at once. I graduated May 13, 2011 from
Helping run a small theatre business never has a typical college and by May 15 I was hired by the Great Plains
day. Last weekend, we took Rumpelstilskin ... Recycled!?!, Theatre in Abilene, Kan. I took on work as an actor,
an original show for children that I co-wrote, to the Great set construction, and the box office. I also worked
Plains Mall in Olathe. We brought in the sets, costumes, with stage management in the company. This contract
and music and I play the title
role of Rumpelstilskin. After
performing the show, we tore
down the set and so forth and
drove back to our Metcalf South
location to perform our evening
show. All the while we are still
answering the phone and sell-
ing tickets. After the load in, we
prepared the Metcalf theatre to
be audience ready. Sweeping,
cleaning the bathrooms, getting
the snack bar ready, setting the
cabaret tables and chairs and
then perform Completely Hol-
lywood with as much energy as
kelly luck
required. After that show, we
cleaned up the theatre along
with cast mates Nino Cassi and Dianne Brown, then lasted until August 14. During my employment with
you and I had a production meeting to cover some issues the Great Plains Theatre, I made a trip up to audition
before the next day’s performances. for the Mystery Train Theatre. I couldn’t audition for
you yet, because you were in New York performing at
Was that considered a long day? the International Fringe Festival. The Mystery Train
Running a small business reminds me of my recent time Theatre offered me work as a stage manager. The next
in college. There are times when everything is crazy week I received a phone call the day before I moved
and deadlines are due and you keep going and going to Kansas City that the lead quit in the mystery pro-
to make sure everything gets done. Other times are not duction and I would be playing the lead role in Extra!
so crazy and we continue writing our original produc- Continued on page 20
2 KCSTAGE “Always make the audience suffer as much as possible.” ~ Alfred Hitchcock
5. Gladstone Theatre in the Park Celebrates 25 Years
by Jamie Lin
This summer marks the 25th season of Gladstone and there have been no further incidences of arson or
Theatre in the Park, the only community theatre in vandalism.
the Northland. In 1988, Van and Susie Ibsen of Ibsen In the face of a crisis, the community rose up to help
Dance Theatre decided that their community needed GTIP have a successful season, but they don’t just show
local opportunities to participate in theatre so that they up in times of tragedy. The Ibsens have a team of five
wouldn’t have to drive so far south. They wrote a letter advisors that help them keep things running on a day to
to the City of Gladstone and proposed doing one show day basis: Becky Clark, Michelle Coon, Julie Crawford,
in Oak Grove Park (Ibsen Dance Theatre would provide Lennette Johnson, and Jennifer Kessler. The advisory
all the sets, lights, sound, scripts, etc. and the city would board is on a 2 to 3 year rotating membership and is
provide the electricity, the park, and the parking) to responsible for selecting the shows and the directors
see if the community would support a summer the- of both musicals every summer. They also make sure
atre program. The city agreed and GTIP put on its first the operation is well organized with every person,
production, Oliver, with almost 50 people in the cast staff member, volunteer, deadline, and future growth
and over 800 audience members for each of the three accounted for. GTIP also has an operation manual that
performances. Sheila Lillis, head of Parks and Recre- the board follows and updates each year using the
ation, loved the response and proposed doing summer feedback from the major participates and volunteers.
theatre in the park to the mayor and the city council. It Gladstone Theatre in the Park is a well-oiled machine
was unanimously accepted. From 1988 to the present, and that is why they have been able to be so successful
GTIP has produced two musicals every summer with for 25 years.
casts ranging from 50 to 130 people and the audience Because the shows are so popular and so many
usually averaging around 3,000 to 3,500 each night. patrons show up early to save themselves seats, they
It seemed that the Ibsens had found a recipe for suc- have even devised a system to ensure that the blankets
cess: family friendly musicals with large casts and free and chairs don’t damage the grass. This long standing
admission for all. This formula enabled thousands of tradition is known as “the blanket run”. At 3 pm on
people in the Northland to be a part of the theatre scene show days, hundreds of excited audience members line
that was previously out of their reach. With the efforts up at the edge of the seating area and wait for a whistle
and donations of the community and local businesses, to blow. Once they hear the whistle, they rush to beat
Gladstone Theatre in the Park was able to build a per- each other to the piece of grass with the best view of
manent structure in Oak Grove Park in 1995 so that the stage. You can watch a video of a blanket run on
they no longer had to build a stage from scratch every their website.
summer. In 2001, however, it was tragically burned to Any theatre company that can generate that much
the ground in an act of arson on July 15, Van Ibsen’s excitement year after year, show after show, must be
birthday. The community was devastated by the loss but doing something right. Susie Ibsen attributed much of
rather than canceling Lil’ Abner, which was in its second the success to the actors that audition year after year.
week of rehearsal at the time, they gave new meaning “The level of talent continues to grow. We have many
to the phrase “the show must go on”. “We had more performers who have gone on to perform profession-
volunteers than I have ever seen come to our assistance,” ally.” Among those performers are well known names
Van said. “We cleared away the old stage, cleaned the such as Lauren Braton, often seen at the American Heart-
concrete platform and built the set in one weekend with land Theatre and Musical Theatre Heritage, Robert Erik
the assistance of people from almost every theatre in Sobbe, fresh off his starring role in Egads! Theatre Com-
town including Shawnee Mission Theatre in the Park, pany’s Zombie Prom, and Brian Shortess, another Eubank
Quality Hill Playhouse, Missouri Rep, River City Play- favorite and commercial actor.
ers, and so many more that I can’t remember! We opened Not only do they put on phenomenal shows that lead
on time with a wonderful production and with great to successful acting careers, they are bringing families
audience support.” A new structure has since been built Continued on page 18
www.kcstage.com JUNE 2012 3
6. Hanging Fringe on the Arch: St. Louis Starts Fringe Festival
by Angie Fiedler
Emily Piro, the executive director of the new St. Louis yet, but the idea had always stuck in the back of my
Fringe Festival, actually had the idea for something mind,” she says.
similar back in 2007. “I’m from Seattle originally and I However, in 2011, a series of events started with a
moved to St. Louis, and really started getting involved discussion with the New York playwright of the show
in the art scene here, especially the performing arts Piro was touring — she worked for the Seattle Fringe
and theatre scene,” Festival and remembered
Piro says. “What Piro’s show. “I was like,
really struck me is ‘You worked for the
the really unique tone Seattle Fringe — tell me
that every theatre more about that,’” Piro
company here has. continues. “And she said,
You really can’t inter- ‘You know, it was just
change one show for something that a group
the next, you know? of people started because
When you go to see they felt the city really
a company show, needed it.’ And I said,
you really kind of ‘Well, I think St. Louis
know how it’s going really needs it.’ That’s all
to feel, how it’s going it takes — that notion to be
to work, what kind able to say that it’s some-
of work’s going to thing the city needs.
be there. And that “And this time when
was something that I started floating the idea
was really exciting to around again, different
me, and I wondered people in the community
if all the audiences instead of being, ‘no, that
that are in St. Louis will never work’,
know about the really they were, ‘Yes, we
incredible diversity of need it, we want it.
work and all the dif- This is something
ferent types of work really necessary
that are here. There’s brian peters right now and
really something for everybody. So, if you’re going
I had this idea: what if we had this to put the
festival where all these different com- work into it,
panies could really showcase what they we’ll back
do really well and then we get a sense you 100%.’
of the type of work that’s already going I don’t
on in this city.” know if
At the time, no one she talked to really this is
jumped on the idea. Worries about shar- happening in
ing resources and space were predominant, the rest of the country, but
and Piro shelved the idea — but never really I know in St. Louis definitely there’s
gave up on it. “I didn’t have the name ‘fringe’ been this incredible wave of the creative culture,
Continued on page 17
4 KCSTAGE “The virtue of dress rehearsals is that they are a free show for a select group of artists and friends of the
author, and where for one unique evening the audience is almost expurgated of idiots.” ~ Alfred Jarry
7. And the Cappie Goes To...
On May 26, the 10th annual Kansas City Cappies were Female Dancer: Hayley Farrell, Raymore-Peculiar
presented. The Kansas City Cappies works with high High School, Legally Blonde
school theatre students all over the metro area; cultivat- Male Dancer: Reuben Hoyle, Blue Springs South
ing their writing skills, improving their critical analysis High School, Brigadoon
abilities, and honoring their talents and skills in and on Female Vocalist: Taylor Carr, Summit Christian
their school plays and musicals. The Kansas City Cap- Academy, Hello, Dolly!
pies recognizes these excellent students in 37 different Male Vocalist: Daniel Verschelden, Lee’s Summit
categories. The voting was held on May 1. For more High School, Guys & Dolls
information, including a list of all the nominees, visit Comic Actress in a Play: Sarah Goodman, Center
www.cappies.com/kcc. High School, See How They Run
Comic Actor in a Play: Nathaniel Weber, Raymore-
Marketing and Publicity: Amber Coultis, Chloe Jack- Peculiar High School, The Foreigner
son, Belton High School, The Crucible Comic Actress in a Musical: Lara Ware, Belton High
Sound: Mathias Ham, Ryan Rouse, Summit Christian School, Bye Bye Birdie
Academy, God’s Favorite Comic Actor in a Musical: Austin Welhoff, Harri-
Lighting: Brendon Dale, Ruskin High School, Almost, sonville High School, Footloose
Maine Supporting Actress in a Play: Nellie Maple, Raymore-
Sets: Ingrid Roettgen, Lee’s Summit West High Peculiar High School, The Foreigner
School, A Christmas Carol Supporting Actor in a Play: Jacob Bogart, Lee’s Sum-
Costumes: Shelby Hulsey, Sarah Muir, Kayla Redd,, mit West High School, A Christmas Carol
Lee’s Summit West High School, A Christmas Carol Supporting Actress in a Musical: Haley Crane, Ray-
Make-up: Kylee Schuh, Summit Christian Academy, more-Peculiar High School, Legally Blonde
Hello, Dolly! Supporting Actor in a Musical: Ben Nickols, Excelsior
Props: Sonia Jacobson, Morgan Shea Lyle, Raymore- Springs High School, Zombie Prom
Peculiar High School, The Foreigner Lead Actress in a Play: Hayley Farrell, Raymore-
Special Effects and or Technology: Tyler Fleming, Peculiar High School, The Foreigner
Excelsior Springs High School, Zombie Prom Lead Actor in a Play: Dane Schnake, Raymore-Pecu-
Stage Crew: Jake Salm, Shannah Withrow, Summit liar High School, The Foreigner
Christian Academy, God’s Favorite Lead Actress in a Musical: Nellie Maple, Raymore-
Orchestra: The Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Peculiar High School, Legally Blonde
Dreamcoat Orchestra, Lee’s Summit West High School Lead Actor in a Musical: Jon Gibson, Lee’s Summit
Choreography: Austin Welhoff, Emily Tracy, Har- West High School, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor
risonville High School, Footloose Dreamcoat
Creativity: Austin Strassle, Violin, Ruskin High Song: “Luck Be A Lady”, Lee’s Summit High School,
School, Fame Guys & Dolls
Ensemble in a Play: The Carolers, Lee’s Summit West Play: The Foreigner, Raymore-Peculiar High School
High School, A Christmas Carol Musical: Hello, Dolly!, Summit Christian Academy
Ensemble in a Musical: Cornelius, Irene, Barnaby, Female Critic: Michaela Wiehe, Raymore-Peculiar
Minnie, Summit Christian Academy, Hello, Dolly! High School
Featured Actress: Chloe Jackson, Belton High School, Male Critic: Austin Strassle, Ruskin High School
The Crucible Critic Team: Raymore-Peculiar High School R
Featured Actor: Bobby Turnbough, Raymore-Pecu-
liar High School, The Foreigner
www.kcstage.com JUNE 2012 5
8. Heart of America Shakespeare Festival: 20 Years Under the Stars
by Thomas Canfield
On a rainy June evening in 1993, the inaugural produc- donor meetings, and founding a Strictly Shakespeare
tion of the Heart of America Shakespeare Festival, The organization of supporters. Londré’s many contributions
Tempest, opened in Southmoreland Park. For Marilyn included supplying model budgets, writing preliminary
Strauss, the festival’s founder, this was “such stuff / As proposals for a free Shakespeare festival, and creating
dreams are made on.” Yet realizing an outdoor, pro- a persuasive slide lecture on “The Shakespeare Festival
fessional, free summer Shakespeare production was a Phenomenon.”
hard-won battle, and no one could predict its future In October of 1992, Strauss produced a gala fund-
over the next two decades. raiser at the Folly Theater starring Kevin Kline, who
Strauss, who grew up in Kansas City, began her pro- performed scenes from Shakespeare’s works. The sold-
fessional theatre career in the 1970s when she organized out benefit, for which Kline generously donated his
the Leonard Bernstein Festival with the Kansas City talent, netted $100,000. “Now, we could choose a play,
Philharmonic. This propelled her to a career on the Great hire a director, actors, designers, and technical experts,”
White Way, where Strauss co-produced five plays and Strauss says. “We could build a set, make costumes,
discovered Da, Hugh Leonard’s Irish comedy/drama, tailor the park, garner hundreds of volunteers, and beg
in 1978. When the production was transferred to Broad- all kinds of services.” From its conception, the festival
way, it earned six Tony awards — including Best Play took nearly three years to premiere.
— and garnered Strauss a Tony. She also received an A Midsummer Night’s Dream and Antony and Cleopa-
Obie for the off-Broadway play Getting Out and a Tony tra, performed in rotating repertory this summer, will
nomination for the musical Pump Boys and Dinettes. mark 26 total productions of 18 different plays in the
Homesick for the Midwest, Strauss returned to Kan- festival’s history, and it will be the first time the festival
sas City eleven years later to begin another chapter in performs Anthony and Cleopatra. To achieve a shared
her career. “I had a secret thought that I wanted to vision, executive artistic director Sidonie Garrett and
do theatre,” she says. Determined for success, Strauss assistant director Todd Lanker will juggle simultane-
recalls thinking, “’Nobody turns away from Shake- ous rehearsals. Eventually, Garrett hopes that the entire
speare. That’s a safe way to go.’ I wanted to be sure.” canon will be produced since a two-show season —
Aside from reading a few plays, however, she admits: “I
really didn’t know much about Shakespeare” at the time.
brian collins
As luck would have it, a local Shakespeare scholar
with an identical dream was eager to collaborate. In
1990, Strauss met Felicia Hardison Londré, curators’
professor of theatre at UMKC, who became the festival’s
honorary co-founder. While researching her book on
Shakespeare Companies and Festivals: An International
Guide, Londré had been travelling to Shakespeare fes-
tivals throughout the United States and Europe.
Founding a Shakespeare festival meant courting the
city, potential funders, and the community. At the time,
it would be the only free outdoor Shakespeare festival
in a tri-state area. Convincing Kansas City to join the
ranks of approximately 100-120 Shakespeare compa-
nies in the United States was “an uphill climb,” Strauss
says. Advised to start small, Strauss replied, “I’m not
going to start small. I’m going to go full force, and if it
works, it’ll work.” She spent countless hours planning,
Bruce Roach in Richard III.
gathering information, making phone calls, attending
6 KCSTAGE “Tallulah Bankhead” ~ Tristan Bernard
9. Heart of America Shakespeare Festival: 20 Years Under the Stars
ing rehearsals forced everyone to take refuge under
doug hamer
a tent. The director, Bruce Levitt, told jokes while
“actors emptied the fast-accumulating rain from the
canvas overhead and others blocked holes where rain
was coming through,” she says. “That also may have
been the summer when we sank in mud to the top of
our tennis shoes in spite of the bales of hay the Parks
and Recreation Department strewed around the paths.”
Garrett’s first year with the festival as a young assis-
tant director was on The Taming of the Shrew in 1995.
Charged with maintaining the show after the director
departed, she says, “It was the hottest summer on record
that any of us can recall. We would leave the park and
it would still be 100 degrees.” During one performance,
Continued on page 19
Jason Chanos in Hamlet.
which the festival hopes to continue — allows
for greater flexibility in choices than a single
offering.
“Traditionally, Shakespearean plays were
viewed outdoors by boisterous crowds who
routinely ate and drank during the perfor-
mance,” an early festival brochure notes. For
many audience members, the performances
in the park are their only exposure to live the-
atre, and the casual atmosphere is frequently
punctuated by animated conversation, the
crumpling of potato chip bags, and the crack
of opening soda cans. Last season, almost
23,000 people attended Macbeth. Space is typi-
cally at a premium during the last weekend
of the run; Garrett recalls that the final perfor-
mances of Twelfth Night in 2001 saw close to
2,500 people crowded into the park at once.
Rehearsals begin indoors, but once in the
park the company is at the mercy of insects,
unpredictable weather, sirens, and even fire-
works and helicopters overhead. Rain can
force a hasty retreat to the hall, which means
reduced time rehearsing on the actual set.
doug hamer
Movement coach Jennifer Martin remembers
Robert Gibby Brand in The Tempest.
one year when a furious thunderstorm dur-
www.kcstage.com JUNE 2012 7
10. Performances
www.kcstage.com/performances
The Barn Players, Inc.*
marianne kilroy/coterie theatre
101 Dalmatians, Kids - Session # 1 by
Mel Leven, Randy Rogel, Richard Gibbs,
Brian Smith, Martin Lee Fuller, Dan
Root, Marcy Heisler and Bryan Louiselle:
Jun 19-21: 7:30 pm Tue-Thr
In a loving home in the city of London, Dalma-
tian parents, Pongo and Perdita happily raise
their Dalmatian puppies, until the monstrous
Cruella De Vil plots to steal them for her new
fur coat! Join all the dogs of London, as they
daringly rescue the puppies from Cruella and
her bumbling henchmen. With a delightfully fun
score, lovable characters, and one of the most
deliciously evil villains in the Disney canon,
this stage adaptation is certain to charm and
delight all audiences. Directed by Jason Coats.
$5. The Barn Players, 6219 Martway St, (913)
432-9100, www.thebarnplayers.org
Prelude To A Kiss by Craig Lucas:
Jun 1-17: 7:30 pm Fri-Sat; 2 pm Sun
At Peter and Rita’s wedding, a mysterious old
man insists on kissing the bride. While hon-
eymooning, Peter gradually realizes that the
woman by his side is not his wife. The wedding
kiss caused Rita’s soul and the old man’s to
change places. Peter must track down the old
man and free his young love’s spirit trapped
in an aging and diseased body before it’s too
late. Directed by Darren Sextro. $18; seniors
$15; students $10; 10 or more $12. The Barn
Players, 6219 Martway St, (913) 432-9100,
www.thebarnplayers.org
Charlotte Street Foundation
Exhibit Sway: In the Current: Jun 2:
6 pm Fri; 12 pm Sat
New dance works exploring the human psyche
inspired by and presented with photographic
work by Elijah Gowin. Free. La Esquina,
1000 W 25th St, (816) 221-5115, www.
charlottestreet.org A
Chestnut Fine Arts Theatre Julie Shaw in Once Upon a Mattress at the Coterie Theatre.
And The Oscar Goes To ... : May 17-
Jun 17: 8 pm Thr-Sat; 2 pm Sun
And the Oscar Goes To … celebrates the silver your favorite Oscar-winning songs - “Lullaby $23, discounts for seniors, children, & groups.
screen and Hollywood. Since the invention of of Broadway”, “When You Wish Upon a Star”, Chestnut Fine Arts Center & Theatre, 234 N
the motion picture, movies and music have “Buttons and Bows”, “Thanks for the Memory” Chestnut St, (913) 764-2121, chestnutfinearts.
been intertwined … so take your seat and enjoy and many more! Directed by Brad Zimmerman. com
*Affiliate Organizations offer discounts to subscribers of KC Stage. Display your member- Content Guide: Unless otherwise noted, the subject matter of performances should
ship card at the box office or mention it when ordering tickets over the phone. For a list be suitable for general audiences. Shows marked with A contain adult material that
of discounts and other offers, visit www.kcstage.com. Don’t forget to rate or review the may not be appropriate for children under the age of 18. Shows marked C contain
shows you see online! material that is specifically intended for children. Please note that these content markings
are designated by the individual arts organizations, not by KC Stage.
8 KCSTAGE “The center of the stage is where I am.” ~ Martha Graham
11. Performances
Corbin Theatre Company turing Natalie King, Colter Lemmon, Casey
Metropolitan Ensemble Theatre
37 Postcards by Michael McKeever: McCabe, Lindsey Oetken, Annie Rosenbrook,
and Andrew Walker. $4-$15. Karl C. Bruder A Funny Thing Happened on the Way
May 31-Jun 9: 7:30 pm Thr-Sat to the Forum by Burt Shevelove, Larry
After eight years of traveling abroad, Avery Sut- Theatre, King Hall, (620) 341-6378, www.
emporia.edu/theatre Gelbart, & Stephen Sondheim: May 30-
ton is coming home - home to the warmth and Jun 17: 7:30 pm Wed-Sat; 2 pm Sun
comfort of his family. Unfortunately, things aren’t Tragedy tomorrow, comedy tonight! Outra-
quite as comfortable as Avery remembers. 37 Kacico Dance geous, farcical things pile upon one another
Postcards shows that you can, in fact, go home Little Red Riding Hood: A Newfangled to create a glorious car wreck in this riotous
again. You just never know what you’re going to Prairie Tale: Jun 8: 2 pm, 7 pm Fri “Roman” musical farce. The slave Pseudolus
find. Directed by Maggie Thomas. $10. Corbin Kacico Dance’s telling of Little Red Riding strikes a bargain with young Hero. If Pseu-
Theatre Company, 15 N Water St, (816) 476- Hood: A Newfangled Prairie Tale is a dance dolus can arrange for Hero to get the girl of
2705, www.corbintheatre.org narrative based on the book by local Missouri his dreams, then Hero will give Pseudolus his
author Lisa Campbell Ernst and published by freedom. And from this, all else ensues. Win-
The Coterie Theatre Simon & Shuster Children’s Publishing. This is ner of multiple Tony Awards, this play could
Once Upon a Mattress by Mary Rodg- a family friendly show that is intended for a have be accurately titled, “Many, many funny
ers, Marshal Barer, Jay Thompson, and multigenerational audience. Through original things happened on the way to the Forum.”
Dean Fuller: Jun 19-Aug 5: 11 am choreography, live music by KC Singer/Song Directed by John Robert Paisley. $35 Fri-Sat,
Tue-Fri; 2 pm Sat-Sun; 7 pm Fri; writer Dave Patmore, bright costumes and $30-Thur-Sun, $20 student. Metropolitan
1:30 pm Wed-Fri props, Kacico Dance will bring this traditional Ensemble Theatre, 3604 Main St, (816) 569-
Control-freak mom, Queen Aggravain, chases story to life… with a twist! Directed by Allison 3226, www.metkc.org
off her son’s chances of finding a Princess by McKinzie, Holly Noel Harmison, and Maggie
creating unbeatable tests. Along comes klutzy Osgood Nicholls. $8. Cultural Arts Center
-Metropolitan Community Center- Longview, Mid-America Arts Alliance
Princess Winnifred from the swamp (who swims LIVE! in the Crossroads, featuring Mak-
the moat) to set the Prince’s heart aflame. So, 500 SW Longview Rd., www.kacicodance.org
ing Movies: Jun 1: 6:30 pm Fri
the Queen plans her most difficult challenge Mid-America Arts Alliance is proud to present
yet. The palace is filled with merriment and The KC Improv Company LIVE! in the Crossroads on First Fridays in the
mischief while everyone wonders: will Prin- The KC Improv Company’s Big Show: Crossroads Arts District. Our LIVE! activities are
cess “Fred” pass the Queen’s test? Directed May 5-Jun 30: 8 pm Sat free and family-friendly. On Friday, June 1, the
by Jeff Church. Adults: $15; youth, students, The KC Improv Company has been doing it public is invited to join us for a performance
or seniors: $10. The Coterie Theatre, 2450 however the audience wants it since 2000. by the Latin/Salsa/Rock fusion band, Making
Grand Blvd, Ste 144, (816) 474-6552, www. Tonight they do an adults-only improvised show Movies. Individuals interested in presenting or
coterietheatre.org featuring fast-and-furious games, plus Chi- performing at a future LIVE! event may contact
cago-style long-form improvisation. Directed Christine Bial, Curator of Performing Arts, at
Emporia State University Theatre by Tim Marks, Scott Connerly, and Keith Curtis. christine@maaa.org or 816-421-1388, ext.
Dearly Beloved by Jones, Hope, and $10; $5 for students. The Kick Comedy Theater 227, for more information. Mid-America Arts
Wooten: Jun 13-16: 7:30 pm Wed-Sat (Westport Coffeehouse Theater), 4010 Pennsyl-
The three Futrelle Sisters are throwing a wed- vania, (913) 486-6861, www.kcimprov.com A Continued on page 12
ding. But nothing is working out and now the
bride and her groom are missing. As they try
rita marks
to figure out a way to salvage the wedding,
they reunite their old singing group “The Ser-
monettes”. Directed by Jim Bartruff. Featuring
Kylie Geiman, Jeannie Harper, Colter Lem-
mon, Carolyn Lohkamp, Casey McCabe,
Andrew McCutcheon, Noah Mefford, Aubrey
Near, Annie Rosenbrook, Trinity Standridge,
and Christina Hardin. $4-$15. Karl C. Bruder
Theatre, King Hall, (620) 341-6378, www.
emporia.edu/theatre
The Fox on the Fairway by Ken Ludwig:
Jun 27-30: 7:30 pm Wed-Sat
Ludwig’s tribute to the great English farces of
the 1930s and 1940s, A Fox on the Fairway
takes audiences on a hilarious romp which
pulls the rug out from underneath the stuffy
denizens of a private country club. Filled with
mistaken identities, slamming doors, and over-
the-top romantic shenanigans, it is a furiously
paced comedy. Directed by Jim Ryan. Fea- Members of the KC Improv Company.
www.kcstage.com JUNE 2012 9
12. *Affiliate Theatre
KCSTAGE JUNE 2012
28 MON 29 TUE 1 FRI 2 SAT 3 SUN
NO PERFORMANCES The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee • The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee • The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee • The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee •
New Theatre Restaurant New Theatre Restaurant New Theatre Restaurant New Theatre Restaurant
Everyday Rapture • Unicorn Theatre 37 Postcards • Corbin Theatre Company 37 Postcards • Corbin Theatre Company The 39 Steps • Theatre Atchison
The 39 Steps • Theatre Atchison The 39 Steps • Theatre Atchison And The Oscar Goes To... • Chestnut Fine Arts
And The Oscar Goes To... • Chestnut Fine Arts And The Oscar Goes To... • Chestnut Fine Arts Chicago • Music Theatre for Young People
30 WED 31 THU Everyday Rapture • Unicorn Theatre Chicago • Music Theatre for Young People Everyday Rapture • Unicorn Theatre
The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee • The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee •
Exhibit Sway: In the Current • Charlotte Street Everyday Rapture • Unicorn Theatre A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum •
New Theatre Restaurant New Theatre Restaurant
Foundation Exhibit Sway: In the Current • Charlotte Street Metropolitan Ensemble Theatre
Everyday Rapture • Unicorn Theatre 37 Postcards • Corbin Theatre Company
A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum • Foundation Pete ‘n’ Keely • Quality Hill Playhouse
A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum • And The Oscar Goes To... • Chestnut Fine Arts
Metropolitan Ensemble Theatre A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum • Prelude To A Kiss • The Barn Players, Inc.*
Metropolitan Ensemble Theatre Everyday Rapture • Unicorn Theatre
The Night of the Assassins • The Mystery Train Metropolitan Ensemble Theatre Who’s in Bed with the Butler • Paradise Playhouse
A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum •
Pete ‘n’ Keely • Quality Hill Playhouse The KC Improv Company’s Big Show • The KC Dinner Theatre
Metropolitan Ensemble Theatre
Prelude To A Kiss • The Barn Players, Inc.* Improv Company
Visiting Mr Green • The White Theatre
Who’s in Bed with the Butler • Paradise Playhouse The Night of the Assassins • The Mystery Train
Dinner Theatre Pete ‘n’ Keely • Quality Hill Playhouse
Prelude To A Kiss • The Barn Players, Inc.*
Visiting Mr Green • The White Theatre
Who’s in Bed with the Butler • Paradise Playhouse
Dinner Theatre
4 MON 5 TUE 8 FRI 9 SAT 10 SUN
Pete ‘n’ Keely • Quality Hill Playhouse The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee • The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee • The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee • The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee •
New Theatre Restaurant New Theatre Restaurant New Theatre Restaurant New Theatre Restaurant
37 Postcards • Corbin Theatre Company 37 Postcards • Corbin Theatre Company The 39 Steps • Theatre Atchison
The 39 Steps • Theatre Atchison The 39 Steps • Theatre Atchison And The Oscar Goes To... • Chestnut Fine Arts
6 WED 7 THU And The Oscar Goes To... • Chestnut Fine Arts And The Oscar Goes To... • Chestnut Fine Arts A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum •
The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee • The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee •
A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum • A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum • Metropolitan Ensemble Theatre
New Theatre Restaurant New Theatre Restaurant
Metropolitan Ensemble Theatre Metropolitan Ensemble Theatre Pete ‘n’ Keely • Quality Hill Playhouse
A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum • 37 Postcards • Corbin Theatre Company
Hula Heart • University of Central Missouri Theatre* The KC Improv Company’s Big Show • The KC Prelude To A Kiss • The Barn Players, Inc.*
Metropolitan Ensemble Theatre And The Oscar Goes To... • Chestnut Fine Arts
Little Red Riding Hood: A Newfangled Prairie Tale • Improv Company The Stinky Cheese Man • Paul Mesner Puppets*
Pete ‘n’ Keely • Quality Hill Playhouse A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum •
Kacico Dance The Night of the Assassins • The Mystery Train Sweeney Todd • The Theatre in the Park
The Stinky Cheese Man • Paul Mesner Puppets* Metropolitan Ensemble Theatre
The Night of the Assassins • The Mystery Train Pete ‘n’ Keely • Quality Hill Playhouse Visiting Mr Green • The White Theatre
Hula Heart • University of Central Missouri Theatre*
Pete ‘n’ Keely • Quality Hill Playhouse Prelude To A Kiss • The Barn Players, Inc.* Who’s in Bed with the Butler • Paradise Playhouse
Pete ‘n’ Keely • Quality Hill Playhouse
Prelude To A Kiss • The Barn Players, Inc.* The Stinky Cheese Man • Paul Mesner Puppets* Dinner Theatre
The Stinky Cheese Man • Paul Mesner Puppets*
The Stinky Cheese Man • Paul Mesner Puppets* Sweeney Todd • The Theatre in the Park
Visiting Mr Green • The White Theatre
Sweeney Todd • The Theatre in the Park Visiting Mr Green • The White Theatre
Who’s in Bed with the Butler • Paradise Playhouse Who’s in Bed with the Butler • Paradise Playhouse
Dinner Theatre Dinner Theatre
11 MON 12 TUE 15 FRI 16 SAT 17 SUN
Pete ‘n’ Keely • Quality Hill Playhouse The 25th Annual Spelling Bee • New Theatre The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee • The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee • The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee •
Pippi Longstocking • Theatre for Young America* New Theatre Restaurant New Theatre Restaurant New Theatre Restaurant
Hula Heart • University of Central Missouri Theatre* The Adventures of Pippi Longstocking • Theatre for The Adventures of Pippi Longstocking • Theatre for And The Oscar Goes To... • Chestnut Fine Arts
Young America* Young America* A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum •
And The Oscar Goes To... • Chestnut Fine Arts And The Oscar Goes To... • Chestnut Fine Arts Metropolitan Ensemble Theatre
13 WED 14 THU Dearly Beloved • Emporia State University Theatre Dearly Beloved • Emporia State University Theatre Pete ‘n’ Keely • Quality Hill Playhouse
The 25th Annual Spelling Bee • New Theatre The 25th Annual Spelling Bee • New Theatre
13. The Adventures of Pippi Longstocking • Theatre for The Adventures of Pippi Longstocking • Theatre for A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum • A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum • Prelude To A Kiss • The Barn Players, Inc.*
Young America* Young America* Metropolitan Ensemble Theatre Metropolitan Ensemble Theatre The Stinky Cheese Man • Paul Mesner Puppets*
Dearly Beloved • Emporia State University Theatre And The Oscar Goes To... • Chestnut Fine Arts Hula Heart • University of Central Missouri Theatre* The KC Improv Company’s Big Show • The KC Sweeney Todd • The Theatre in the Park
A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum • Dearly Beloved • Emporia State University Theatre Pete ‘n’ Keely • Quality Hill Playhouse Improv Company
Metropolitan Ensemble Theatre A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum • Prelude To A Kiss • The Barn Players, Inc.* Pete ‘n’ Keely • Quality Hill Playhouse
Pete ‘n’ Keely • Quality Hill Playhouse Metropolitan Ensemble Theatre The Stinky Cheese Man • Paul Mesner Puppets* Prelude To A Kiss • The Barn Players, Inc.*
The Stinky Cheese Man • Paul Mesner Puppets* Hula Heart • University of Central Missouri Theatre* Sweeney Todd • The Theatre in the Park The Stinky Cheese Man • Paul Mesner Puppets*
Pete ‘n’ Keely • Quality Hill Playhouse Who’s in Bed with the Butler • Paradise Playhouse Sweeney Todd • The Theatre in the Park
The Stinky Cheese Man • Paul Mesner Puppets* Dinner Theatre The Three Billy Goats Gruff • Puppetry Arts Institute
Sweeney Todd • The Theatre in the Park Who’s in Bed with the Butler • Paradise Playhouse
Who’s in Bed with the Butler • Paradise Playhouse Dinner Theatre
18 MON 19 TUE 22 FRI 23 SAT 24 SUN
NO PERFORMANCES 101 Dalmatians, Kids - Session # 1 • The Barn The Adventures of Pippi Longstocking • Theatre for The Adventures of Pippi Longstocking • Theatre for Legally Blonde • The Theatre in the Park
Players, Inc.* Young America* Young America* Once Upon a Mattress • The Coterie Theatre
The Adventures of Pippi Longstocking • Theatre for Legally Blonde • The Theatre in the Park The KC Improv Company’s Big Show • The KC Pete ‘n’ Keely • Quality Hill Playhouse
Young America* Once Upon a Mattress • The Coterie Theatre Improv Company The Stinky Cheese Man • Paul Mesner Puppets*
Once Upon a Mattress • The Coterie Theatre Pete ‘n’ Keely • Quality Hill Playhouse Legally Blonde • The Theatre in the Park
Pete ‘n’ Keely • Quality Hill Playhouse The Stinky Cheese Man • Paul Mesner Puppets* Once Upon a Mattress • The Coterie Theatre
Pete ‘n’ Keely • Quality Hill Playhouse
The Stinky Cheese Man • Paul Mesner Puppets*
20 WED 21 THU
101 Dalmatians, Kids - Session # 1 • The Barn 101 Dalmatians, Kids - Session # 1 • The Barn
Players, Inc.* Players, Inc.*
The Adventures of Pippi Longstocking • Theatre for The Adventures of Pippi Longstocking • Theatre for
Young America* Young America*
Once Upon a Mattress • The Coterie Theatre Once Upon a Mattress • The Coterie Theatre
Pete ‘n’ Keely • Quality Hill Playhouse Pete ‘n’ Keely • Quality Hill Playhouse
The Stinky Cheese Man • Paul Mesner Puppets* The Stinky Cheese Man • Paul Mesner Puppets*
25 MON 26 TUE 29 FRI 30 SAT 1 SUN
NO PERFORMANCES The Adventures of Pippi Longstocking • Theatre for The Adventures of Pippi Longstocking • Theatre for The Adventures of Pippi Longstocking • Theatre for Legally Blonde • The Theatre in the Park
Young America* Young America* Young America* Once Upon a Mattress • The Coterie Theatre
Once Upon a Mattress • The Coterie Theatre The Fox on the Fairway • Emporia State University The Fox on the Fairway • Emporia State University Pete ‘n’ Keely • Quality Hill Playhouse
Pete ‘n’ Keely • Quality Hill Playhouse Theatre Theatre The Stinky Cheese Man • Paul Mesner Puppets*
Legally Blonde • The Theatre in the Park The KC Improv Company’s Big Show • The KC
Once Upon a Mattress • The Coterie Theatre Improv Company
27 WED 28 THU Pete ‘n’ Keely • Quality Hill Playhouse Legally Blonde • The Theatre in the Park
AUDITIONS
The Adventures of Pippi Longstocking • Theatre for The Adventures of Pippi Longstocking • Theatre for JUN 1 • Christian Youth Theatre
The Stinky Cheese Man • Paul Mesner Puppets* Pete ‘n’ Keely • Quality Hill Playhouse
Young America* Young America* JUN 2-3, 9-10 • The Barn Players
The Stinky Cheese Man • Paul Mesner Puppets*
The Fox on the Fairway • Emporia State University The Fox on the Fairway • Emporia State University JUN 4-6 • River City Community Players
Theatre Theatre JUN 9-11 • The Theatre Gym
Once Upon a Mattress • The Coterie Theatre Legally Blonde • The Theatre in the Park JUN 18 • The Culture House
Pete ‘n’ Keely • Quality Hill Playhouse Once Upon a Mattress • The Coterie Theatre
The Stinky Cheese Man • Paul Mesner Puppets* Pete ‘n’ Keely • Quality Hill Playhouse
The Stinky Cheese Man • Paul Mesner Puppets*
*Affiliate Theatres offer discount tickets to subscribers of KC Stage. Display your membership card at the box office or mention it when ordering tickets over the phone. For a list of discounts and other offers, visit www.kcstage.com/affiliates. Don’t forget to rate the show you see online!
14. Performances
continued from page 12
Alliance, 2018 Baltimore Avenue, (816) 421- Puppetry Arts Institute Theatre Atchison
1388, www.maaa.org The 39 Steps by Adapted by Patrick Bar-
Piccadilly Productions
low: Jun 1-10: 8 pm Fri-Sat; 2 pm Sun
The Three Billy Goats Gruff: Jun 16:
$10 adults; $6 students. Theatre Atchison,
Music Theatre for Young People 2 pm, 11 am Sat
401 Santa Fe St, (913) 367-7469, www.
Chicago: Jun 2-3: 7:30 pm Sat; Young Billy goat Gunther Gruff, has a fear
theatreatchison.org
2:30 pm Sun problem. You might say he has fearophobia,
http://www.umkc.edu/adminservices/cto/ or phobophobia, if you will. Will a run-in with
events/umkc-theatre.asp for tickets. Directed by the hungry troll Dagmar cure him? And where is Theatre for Young America*
Cary Pandzik and Matthew Allen. $15. UMKC Dagmar’s lunch bag? The show features audi- The Adventures of Pippi Longstocking by
White Recital Hall, 4949 Cherry, (913) 341- ence participation, storytelling, and more of Gene Mackey: Jun 12-30: 12 pm Thr-
8156, www.mtyp.org Piccadilly’s trademark puns and song numbers Fri; 10 am Tue-Fri; 7 pm Fri; 2 pm Sat
keep the kids attention riveted. Directed by Lisa Pippi is a high-spirited, warm-hearted incar-
Albright. $5. Puppetry Arts Institute, 11025 E nation of every child’s dream of freedom and
The Mystery Train Winner Rd, (816) 833-9777, www.hazelle.org power. With her unusual red braids of hair and
The Night of the Assassins by Wendy strange clothing, she is a young lass of unusual
Thompson: Apr 20-Jun 9: 6:30 pm strength. Though Pippi astounds people with her
Fri-Sat Quality Hill Playhouse physical strength, she never uses her ability to
In 1893, two of the finest from the wild, wild, Pete ‘n’ Keely: Jun 1-Jul 1: 8 pm Sun-
harm anyone. Rollicking adventures abound in
west are called in on a special mission to pro- Sat; 3 pm Sat-Sun; 1 pm Wed-Thr
her life in Villa Villekula where she lives alone
tect the President. They are met with modern You are the live studio audience of the
with her horse and pet monkey while her pirate
ideas, social reform, steam-powered mecha- 1968 television special reuniting “America’s
dad is sailing the South Seas. Directed by Gene
nisms, and an array of assassins. A delicate swingin’ sweethearts” Pete Bartel and Keely
Mackey. $8; group discounts available. Theatre
situation, to say the least ... and then a murder Stevens in this hilarious spoof chock full of
for Young America, H & R Block City Stage at
happens! Directed by Wendy Thompson. $64 American standards (“Fever”, “Lover”, “But
Union Station, (816) 460-2083, www.tya.org C
each. The Golden Ox, 1600 Genessee, (816) Beautiful”) and eye-popping costumes! $29
813-9654, A adults; $26 seniors/students. Quality Hill Play-
house, 303 W 10th St, (816) 421-1700, www. Unicorn Theatre
QualityHillPlayhouse.com Everyday Rapture by Dick Scanlan and
New Theatre Restaurant Sherie Renee Scott: May 16-Jun 3: 8 pm
The 25th Annual Putnam County Spell- Fri-Sat; 3 pm Sun; 7:30 pm Tue-Thr
ing Bee by Rebecca Feldman, Rachel The Theatre in the Park A semi-autobiographical stage memoir by She-
Sheinkin, William Finn, & Jay Reiss: Legally Blonde by Laurence O’Keefe,
rie Rene Scott, this is the story of a woman’s
Apr 5-Jun 17: 12 pm Sat-Sun, Wed; Nell Benjamin, and Heather Hach:
psycho-sexual-spiritual journey that separates
6 pm Tue-Sun Jun 22-Jul 1: 8:30 pm Thr-Sun
her mostly Mennonite past from her mostly
Directed by Joe R Fox III. $22.95 - $37.20. Sorority star Elle Woods doesn’t take “no” for
Manhattan future. She travels from Topeka,
New Theatre Restaurant, 9229 Foster St, www. an answer. So when her boyfriend dumps her
Kan, to New York City with a disturbing detour
newtheatre.com A for someone “serious”, Elle puts down the
through YouTube. Filled with familiar tunes, this
credit card, hits the books, and sets out to go
musical follows Sherie’s road to Broadway
where no Delta Nu has gone before: Harvard
Paradise Playhouse Dinner Theatre Law. Along the way, Elle proves that being true
semi-stardom. This is the first production in
Who’s in Bed with the Butler by Michael the nation since Sherie premiered the show
to yourself never goes out of style. Directed
Parker: May 25-Jun 16: 6 pm Fri-Sat; on Broadway. Directed by Jerry Jay Cranford.
by Greg Shaw. Prices vary. The Theatre in the
7 pm Thr; 12 pm Sun $27.50 - $37.50. Unicorn Theatre, 3828 Main
Park, 7710 Renner Rd, (913) 236-1237, www.
Directed by Larry Tesar. $30 - $32. Paradise St, (816) 531-7529, www.unicorntheatre.org A
theatreinthepark.org A
Playhouse Dinner Theatre, 101 Spring St, (816)
630-3333, www.paradiseplayhouse.org A Sweeney Todd by Stephen Sondheim UCM Theatre*
and Hugh Wheeler: Jun 8-17: 8:30 pm Central Missouri Repertory
Paul Mesner Puppets* Thr-Sun Hula Heart by Velina Hasu Houston:
The Stinky Cheese Man by Jon Scieszka: This chilling, suspenseful, heart-pounding mas- Jun 15: 10 am Tue, Thr-Fri
Jun 6-Jul 1: 2 pm Sat-Sun; 11 am terpiece of murderous barber-ism and culinary “Hula Heart” is the story of a young boy from
Wed-Sat; 1:30 pm Wed-Fri crime tells of the unjustly exiled barber who Hawaii who moves to California and is faced
Adapted from the wildly popular book by Jon returns to 19th century London seeking revenge with the dilemma of maintaining his native
Scieszka and Lane Smith, this rip-roaring fairy- against the lecherous judge who framed him roots or embracing a new and different culture.
tale adventure is loads of fun for all ages. and ravaged his young wife. His thirst for blood With a cast of fantastic characters, beautiful
You’ll have fun with Jack, the narrator, as he soon expands to his unfortunate customers, hula dancing, and a message of being true to
takes you through the twists and turns of this and the resourceful proprietress of the pie oneself, this is an unforgettable performance
wacky tale, which contains zany versions of shop downstairs soon has people lining up that you won’t want to miss! Featuring Jus-
storybook classics! Directed by Paul Mesner. for her mysterious new meat pies! Directed by tin Barron, Adam Tucker, Angie Benson, and
$7 for children; $9 for adults. PMP Studio, Mark Swezey. Prices vary. The Theatre in the Miranda Powers. Whiteman AFB Community
1006 E Linwood Blvd, (816) 235-6222, www. Park, 7710 Renner Rd, (913) 236-1237, www. Center, Building 528, (660) 543-8811, www.
paulmesnerpuppets.org theatreinthepark.org A ucmo.edu/theatre
12 KCSTAGE “If you really want to help the American theater, don’t be an actress, dahling. Be an audience.” ~ Tallulah Bankhead
15. Performances Events Film Clips
www.kcstage.com/events by Larry Levenson
The White Theatre Christian Youth Theater Gary Huggins raised $70,000 to make his first
Visiting Mr. Green by Jeff Baron: May 31- LOGOS Dance Theatre Fairy Tale Ballet full-length movie entitled Kick Me. Starring in
Jun 10: 7:30 pm Sat, Thr; 2 pm Sun Camp: Jun 18-22: 9 am Mon-Fri the movie will be Kansas City, Kan., policeman
Directed by Mark Swezey. The Lewis and Shirley Your little princess will learn basic dance tech- Santiago Vasquez, and plans are to shoot it
White Theatre, 5801 West 115 Street, (913) nique, make fun crafts, and enjoy tasty treats. in the KC area.
327-8054, www.jcckc.org A (Ages 4 - 7) All princesses get to take home A national Wal-Mart commercial was sched-
their own camp t-shirt and tutu! See your bal- uled to be shot in KC, and SAG/AFTRA extras
lerina shine at the Parent Show on Friday, June were being sought.
Coming in July 22 at 11:30AM. Camp runs 9AM - noon each
day. CYT Offices, 6800A W 153rd St., (913) Rural western Kansas is the setting for a hor-
Blue Springs City Theatre* 681-3318, www.cytkc.org ror movie to be shot over the summer. Crew
Willy Wonka the Musical in nearly every department is needed, so if
Winnie the Pooh Theater Arts Camp for you are interested, visit www.rabidlovemovie.
Paradise Playhouse Dinner Theatre ages 4-5: Jun 4-Aug 3: 9 am Mon-Fri
Over the River and Through the Woods com or www.facebook.com/rabidlovemovie
Join CYT Kansas City as we act, sing and dance for information.
by Joe DiPietro our way through the Hundred Acre Wood with
Puppetry Arts Institute this exciting summer camp for pre-schoolers. A call went out for extras for a print project.
Salt N’ Patter Puppets and Brementown Christopher Robin, Winnie the Pooh, Eeyore, The client was a regional KC bank.
Musicians Piglet, Owl, Rabbit and Tigger will come along
Bryan Blakey (Crime Family, Nine Grounds) is
on our journey. Crafts and snacks are part
Randomosity Productions, LLC looking for someone to play the lead female
of the fun! Camps are half days at various
CRISSCROSS by Mark Katzman role of Mary in the movie PMS COP. The movie
locations throughout the Kansas City metro.
will be shot in Springfield, Mo. If you are inter-
Summit Theatre Group Each camp is one week long. (913) 681-3318,
ested, visit his website, www.pmscop.com, to
The Music Man by Meredith Wilson www.cytkc.org
get his contact information. Requirements for
The Theatre in the Park the role are: needs to be athletic, talented
Disney’s Sleeping Beauty Kids Jewell Theatre Company* actress, available May, June, and July.
Disney’s The Jungle Book Kids Jewell Theatre Camp: Jun 17-22: 1 am
Urinetown by Mark Hollman, Greg Kotis TLC channel is casting for a new documentary
Sun-Fri
series about extreme money savers. If you have
Theatre for Young America* One Week Residential Theatre Camp for High
been described as cheap or frugal, contact
Fair Ball: Negro Leagues in America by School Students! For more information and to
TLCCastingshow@gmail.com, where you can
Gene Mackey register go to: www.jewell.edu/theatrecamp.
describe your extraordinary money-saving tech-
Peters Theater, Brown Hall, (816) 415-7588,
The White Theatre niques.
theatre@william.jewell.edu R
The King & I by Rodgers & Hammerstein R Writer/director Jordan Essary is looking for
actors to be in his new Christian short movie
entitled “The Tree House”. The movie is set to go
into production during the month of August in
Missouri. Jordan is looking for boys ages 8-10,
and girls ages 13-15. Contact Jordan Essary
at: (361)443-2922, conceptoneproductions@
yahoo.com, or www.conceptoneproductions.
com/the_tree_house_casting_call.
Wright/Laird Casting was looking for a late-
40’s Caucasian woman with short, blonde hair
for TV commercial.
Auditions and call-back were held at Wright/
Laird Casting for a Missouri Lottery commercial
to be shot in KC. R
Are you a filmmaker in the KC area and want
to submit news about your production to KC
Stage? E-mail Larry at llevenson@kcstage.com
before the 10th.
www.kcstage.com JUNE 2012 13
16. View from the Bench: Two Weeks as a Reality Show Drama Critic
by Kelly Luck
“AUTHENTIC BOXING”, proclaims the sign outside some exciting performers down there that he feels would
the building as I pull up, emblazoned above a silhouette be ideal for the KC Fringe Festival, so the trip was worth
raising its gloved hands in triumph. For a moment, I it. Next to him: Edward Einhorn, playwright and artistic
wonder if I am at the right place. But no, around the director of New York’s “Untitled Theatre Company #61,”
corner of the building, a more modest sign is hung by down for the weekend to lend his insights. He’s a pleasant
the door: “Project Playwright”. It is this that has brought fellow, active in children’s and Jewish theatre, as well as
me down to the West Bottoms on a balmy Saturday being the driving force behind the yearly Ionesco festival.
night. The parking lot is beginning to fill up already, I make a note to talk to him after the taping.
and a few people are standing outside, catching the last The three of us are placed at a table in front of the
rays of dying sunshine before the show begins. audience, overlooking the black-curtained area that
David Hanson breaks off from the group, hurries serves as a simple performance space. Tonight, the stage
forward to shake my hand. “We’re just up the stairs,” is set with some airline seats the photography studio
he says, guiding me and a few others up a darkened uses for advertising shots. Behind us, the audience seats
stairwell, past a headless mannequin and gradually fill with excited playgoers: some
into a wide open space. During the week, to root for a particular playwright, others
we are told, it is a working photo studio; Playwrights just here for the show. Behind the stage area
but for the next two weekends it will be Peter Bakely in the makeshift green-room-cum-dormi-
the temporary home of what may well be Bryan Colley tory, final preparations are being made.
Kansas City’s first homegrown reality show. Allie Jordan During the weekend, the playwrights live
The brainchild of Hanson and Erich Michael Ruth and work in this area, but now it’s full of
McGrew, the show takes the classic “talent Vicky Vodrey actors and directors doing the last minute
show” format and brings it into the theatre prep that always comes before curtain-rise.
world. Five local playwrights have been Directors All around us, serious-minded students
selected: over the next two weeks, they will Victor Hentzen with black shirts and expensive cameras
produce plays to order, with stringent condi- Liz Nelson check and double check their equipment.
tions and a merciless deadline. And then, one And then, the show begins.
Jill Szoo
by one, each play will be given its premiere David steps out on stage, welcoming the
performance before a live audience and a Winner audience and getting straight into the rules.
panel of judges. Which is where I come in. Bryan Colley Five playwrights have been chosen: for each
“It’s kind of like American Idol, X-Factor, of four nights, three of them will compete
that sort of thing.” It’s two months earlier, for a spot in the fourth and final round.
and I’m sitting in an Indian restaurant with Twenty-four hours previously, they were
David. He’s been in touch with KC Stage, wanting some- each given an assignment for a ten-minute play. They
one with a critic’s perspective on the judging panel. A had twelve hours to finish the script, and the actors and
quick flurry of e-mails has resulted in this meeting in directors had twelve hours to put a production together.
which he explains the details. “All you have to do is Sound and light cues are sparse, props and stagecraft
show up, watch the plays, talk a little about what you minimal. There are no catchy songs to save them, no
liked and didn’t like about them. Sound fun?” Indeed elaborate sets, no falling chandeliers. This is storytell-
it does. And so, on a balmy spring night with precision ing at its purist. And we are here to watch it happen.
chaos all around me, we prepare for the show. The first round is titled “Farce at 24,000 Feet”. The
As zero hour approaches, David introduces me to my playwrights are given three actors in four airline seats.
fellow judges: Bob Paisley, actor, director, co-founder of They must create a play that follows the rules of farce
the Metropolitan Ensemble Theatre. He’s just returned in the space of ten minutes. And since this is apparently
to town from Australia, where he went to escape what not brutal enough, a final condition has been added: each
turned out to be the mildest winter in years. Still, he found character must change seats no less than three times,
14 KCSTAGE “If there is a gun hanging on the wall in the first act, it must fire in the last.” ~ Anton Chekhov
