uctible! - KC Stage

Transcription

uctible! - KC Stage

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OCTOBER 2005 • 17
AUDITIONS
Continued from previous page
HONK! by Anthony Drewe, book by
George Stiles: Sep 26-Sep 27: 7pm MonTue.
This show may be the best kept secret
in musical theatre. It is a Broadway Style
Musical, based on the story of the Ugly
Duckling, (without feathers). It’s message
of love and acceptance is sure to touch
your heart and perhaps your spirit. Please
prepare 16-32 measures of music from a
musical theatre selection and be prepared
to participate in a movement audition. A
special audition for children under 14
will take place in October. Performance
Dates--July 16-23, 2006 Directed by
Mark Swezey. This show has a large cast
of adults and some children that play
numerous roles. We are looking for Actors,
singers and dancers. Jewish Community
Center of Greater Kansas City/Centerstage
Playhouse, 5801 West 115th Street, (913)
327-8074, jewishartskc.org
Lawrence Community Theatre
Disney’s Beauty and the Beast by Alan
Menken, Lyrics by Howard Ashman and
Tim Rice, Book by Linda Woolverton: Sep
26-Sep 27: 7pm Mon-Tue.
Auditions will be held at the theatre Sep 2627 at 7pm both nights. Those auditioning
are asked to prepare a short song. An
accompanist will be provided. Scripts are
available at the theatre for a 3-day check
out period. A $10 deposit is required and
will be refunded when the script is returned
as agreed. For more information, call the
theatre at 785-843-7469. Directed by Mary
Doveton, Director, Judy Heller, Music
Director. A large cast is needed. Lawrence
Community Theatre, 1501 New Hampshire
St., (785) 843-7469, theatre.lawrence.com
Logos Theatre Company
Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol
adaptation by Nathan Jeffrey: Sep 30-Oct 1:
7pm Fri; 12pm Sat.
The
show
is
performed
in
a
reader’s
theatre
format, so 5-6 actors
play all the roles.
Email nathan@logos
theatre.com for the
audition
readings.
The auditions are
composed
entirely
of readings from
the text. Rehearsals
will be 7-11pm,
Mon, Tue, and Thu
beginning Oct 31.
Performances
are
Dec 2, 16, and 17.
Directed by Nathan
Jeffrey.
Featuring
3 Men 18-60, able
to play a variety of
roles.
Experience
with
image-rich
text preferable. 2
Women 18-50, able
roles.
Experience
with image-rich text
preferable.
$50$100 stipends may
be
available--we
will know by the time we cast. Central
Church of the Nazarene (Worship Wing),
12600 87th St. Parkway, (816) 304-0330,
[email protected]
The Mystery Train (Professional)
A Christmas Conundrum: Oct 31-Nov 1:
5pm Mon-Tue.
Interactive murder mystery dinner theater
is holding auditions for their Christmas
show. Seeking two females, one male.
Auditions by appointment only. Prepare
a comic monologue. There will also
be cold readings from the script. Call
816-813-9654 for appointment or more
information. Opening show is Nov 25,
closes Jan 7. There is performance pay.
The Mystery Train, Union Cafe, (816) 8139654, [email protected]
Park University Theatre
2005 Fall One-Act Festival: Oct 3: 6:30pm
Mon.
Black Box Theatre, Park University Home
Campus, Alumni Hall, (816) 584-6450,
captain.park.edu/theatre
TBA Players
Just Say Yes! by Jack and Tom Sharkey:
Oct 8: 1pm Sat.
1-3 pm at Just Off Broadway Theatre, 3051
Central with call backs from 5 to 6 pm.
Come prepared with a comic monologue,
or read cold from the script with a partner.
Small stipend for performing. Directed
by Amanda Hall. Featuring 2 males,
3 females, ages 17 to 50. Color blind.
Blaize Caraway (35-50) Author of selfhelp books, full of energy. Faye Caraway
(17-23) Daughter to Blaize. Irene Joyce
(25-40) Blaize’s irreplaceable assistant.
The one person who can wrangle Blaize.
Nell Eager (24-36) Newly hired, energetic
and determined replacement for Irene.
Requires great comic timing. Arnold
Adderby (23-35) Loser! Never successful
at anything. Lots of physical comedy,
requires great comic timing. Just Off
Broadway, 3051 Central, (816) 444-2459,
tbaplayers.com R
16 • KCSTAGE
BIG APPLE
riage. A particularly poignant skit
of three minstrels in “pink-face”
literally had me laughing until I
cried. It’s refreshing to see artists
unafraid of political performance,
especially when our president
tries to silence the voices of opposition.
Although I had a great time fringing NYC-style, the biggest lesson
I learned is that the diversity and
vitality of contemporary American
theatre is alive and well in Kansas
City’s theatre scene. Each piece I
saw reminded me of work that I
have seen in our own storefront
theatres, makeshift performance
spaces, and inventive productions. I used to go to New York to
catch the most contemporary and
cutting-edge performance trends.
Upon further reflection, I realize,
everything is “up to date in Kansas
City.”
Chris McCoy is the Manager of Education and Community Programs at
Theater League as well as an independent writer, director, and actor.
OCTOBER 2005 • 1
“What is character but the determination of incident? What is incident but the illustration of character?” ~ Henry James
AUDITIONS
Blue Springs City Theatre
A Christmas Story: Sep 26-27: 7pm MonTue.
A Christmas Story triple-dog dares you to
have a good time. Young Ralphie wants
only one thing for Christmas: An official
Red Ryder BB gun. But how can he get
around his mother’s constant “You’ll
shoot your eye out!”? His brilliant allout campaign twists in and out of other
unforgettable Christmas adventures: the
freezing flagpole, Dad’s leg lamp, visiting
Santa, and the Christmas dinner that got
away. Don’t miss this holiday classic as
it comes to life on our stage. Directed by
Duke Howze. Blue Springs Civic Center,
2000 Northwest Ashton Drive, (816) 2280137, www.bluespringscitytheatre.com
Children’s Performing Theatre
A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens,
adapted by Jason Vivone: Oct 8: 10am Sat
Children ages 5-15. Can come prepared
with a monologue or a poem. Please
bring resume and headshot if you have
them. You may be asked to read from the
script or sing. This can be any song that
the child knows. Auditions will be held at
the Roger T Sermon Center on Oct 8 from
10am to Noon. Will resume from 1-3pm.
The Roger T Sermon center is located
at the corners of Truman and Noland
road in Independence. Directed by Jason
Vivone. Children’s Performing Theatre,
Roger T. Sermon Center, (816) 325-7367,
[email protected]
NOTES
Improv-Abilities (Professional)
Improv-Abilities by Tim Marks: Oct 1:
3pm Sat.
Directed by Tim Marks. Everyone
is welcome to audition! The Lucky
Brewgrille, 5401 Johnson Drive, (913)
871-6242, www.kcimprov.com
The Jewish Community Center
A Chorus Line by J. Kirkwood & N. Dante,
Music by M. Hamlisch, Lyrics by E.
Kleban: Sep 26-27: 7pm Mon-Tue.
Dancers who sing and act. Please
musical theatre selection. All should be
prepared to go through a dance audition.
Callbacks take place September 28,
Wednesday. Performances take place
January 14,15,18,19,21,22. Directed
by Mark Swezey. Jewish Community
Angels in America, part 1 by Tony
Kushner: Sep 26-Sep 27: 7pm Mon-Tue.
Please prepare a monologue, of 2-4
minutes in length, from a published play.
Callbacks will take place September 29,
Thursday, at 7 p.m. Performances take
place March 4,5,8,9,11,12. Directed
by Mark Swezey. Featuring 5 males, 3
females, Actors play multiple roles. Jewish
Community Center of Greater Kansas City/
Centerstage Playhouse, 5801 West 115th
Street, (913) 327-8074, jewishartskc.org
Continued on next page
BROADCASTING
Missouri Arts Council Offers
Free Workshops
Public Broadcasting Cuts
The Missouri Arts Council is offering up a free two-part seminar
for teaching artists and educators on using creative drama and
movement to support literacy and
communication arts at all grade
levels. Participants will explore
experientially the vital importance
of learning in all three perceptual
modalities - auditory, visual, and
kinesthetic - and gain valuable
information regarding the role the
arts can play in effective learning
for all students. Participants will
leave with tools and activities to
implement in the classroom immediately, as well as with a variety
of handouts, a bibliography, and
other useful resources.
The Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB), the conduit for governmental support for the Public
Broadcasting Service (PBS) and
National Public Radio (NPR), has
been under fire from several sources
this summer. At the heart of the debate is the fundamental question of
objectivity in journalism.
CONTENTS
by Lillias Freeman-Hogan • lfreeman-hogan@
kcstage.com
In early June, the House Appropriations Committee cut $100 million in
funding, or 25% of their total budget, from the CPB. In addition, the
subcommittee acted to eliminate
within two years all federal money
for CPB. Shortly thereafter, the full
House voted resoundingly to restore
the 2006 funding. The votes for the
2006 funding included all the House
The seminars will help educators Democrats and an impressive 38%
examine methods for active in- of House Republicans.
struction and assessment; receive
sample lesson plans, planning In July, CPB chairman Kenneth
assistance and useful handouts. Tomlinson appointed Patricia HarHomework assignment will be to rison, former co-chairwoman of
implement a lesson in the class- the Republican National Committee, to the position of CPB’s CEO.
room using these strategies.
He is campaigning now for the
The seminar is free and being of- appointment of Cheryl Halpern, a
fered in Columbia on October 5 leading “hard-money” contributor
and 20, Springfield on October 18 to Republican political campaigns,
and 27, and St. Joseph on October to succeed himself when his term
11 and 25. Class size is limited to expires in September. However,
25. Participants must attend both both these decisions are now unsessions. For more information, der investigation by the CPB’s own
contact Deborah Edelman toll free Inspector General.
at (866) 407-4752 or Deborah.Edel
Tomlinson claims he is attempting
[email protected]. R
to “restore balance” in CPB-supported reporting. But how does he
define “balance”? He has stirred debate in recent months by contending
that programs carried by PBS and
NPR favor liberal views. He has
Continued on page 14
COVER: Michelle Diane Brown, artistic director of Kacico Dance,
which premeires in October. PAGE 3
FEATURES
Fringing in the Big Apple ........................................... 2
Feasting on Film in Kansas ....................................... 4
Public Broadcasting Cuts .......................................... 1
NOTES
MAC Offers Free Workshops ...................................... 1
Nominations for Governor's Arts Awards ................... 5
RUNNING GAG
Gag Runneth Over ..................................................... 3
SPOTLIGHT
Michelle Diane Brown ............................................... 3
STAND INS
Auditions ................................................................ 16
Callboard ................................................................. 5
Film Clips ............................................................... 12
Performances ........................................................... 6
CREW
Managing Editor .................................Richard Buswell
Graphic Design ........................................ Bryan Colley
Subscriber Rep .............................. Tricia Kyler Bowling
Webmaster ............................................ Scott Bowling
Marketing............................................... Angie Fiedler
Lackey ......................................................Diane Bulan
KCSTAGE
Volume 07 • No. 10 • Issue 73 • October 2005
[email protected] • 816-361-2325
PO Box 410492 • Kansas City, MO 64141-0492
Nov. Submission Deadline: Oct 10
www.kcstage.com
© Copyright 2005 by KC Stage. All material contained in this publication is
the property of KC Stage. Any use, duplication, or reproduction of any or
all content of this publication is prohibited except with the express written
permission of KC Stage. KC Stage is a member of the Just Off Broadway
Theatre Association. Printing by CopyMax. R
2 • KCSTAGE
OCTOBER 2005 • 15
“Love is the ultimate expression of the will to live.” ~ Thomas Wolfe
BIG APPLE
Fringing in the Big Apple
or How to Survive Ten Shows in Four
Days in NYC Without Really Trying
by Chris McCoy • [email protected]
This summer, Kansas City hosted its first annual Fringe
Festival, placing us among the elite of American cities
to boast such a cultural resource. Historically, fringe
festivals were created as an avenue for avant garde
artists and playwrights to exhibit their work without
the economic pressures of a full production. However,
one must wonder what is the purpose of the Fringe
when traditional Fringe fare – such as Stomp, Blue
Man Group, Urinetown, and Laurie Anderson – have
become mainstream offerings for commercial theatre.
My experience is that “fringing” allows the discerning
theatre patron an opportunity to view a wide variety
of contemporary American theatre on a low budget.
Fringing is rather like a wine tasting for the theatre
elite: one can sample a multitude of genres, develop
a palate for the nuances and trends, and inevitably
spit out a few of the duds. All this and you don’t have
to take out a second mortgage on your house for the
price of a ticket.
I began my foray into FringeNYC at Fringe Central,
a storefront in Greenwich Village. The barren, environmental atmosphere set the tone for my Fringe
experience: one wall was virtually covered with
posters and postcards advertising each show as tattooed and pierced volunteers stuffed mailings and
processed ticket orders in the wings. For $110, I bought
a Fringe Flex Pass which allowed me to see 10 shows
of my choosing at any of the venues. 10 shows at $10
is quite a deal in any market, but it’s exceptional by
NYC standards. In speaking with the volunteers at
Fringe Central, I learned about the hot-ticket shows,
the ones that are receiving poor audience reception,
and a little about the Fringe experience. The overall
atmosphere is that you’re entering into a private
club. People want to know what shows you’ve seen,
what’s good, what’s not. It’s similar to entering into
a fraternity or the Elk’s club – the Flex pass gives you
benefits and experience that allow one to learn the
art of Fringing:
CALLBOARD
Lesson #1: The “mock musical” is here to stay.
Upon my last few trips to NYC, I began to wonder,
“Does anyone take musical comedies seriously anymore?” The mock musical has emerged as a viable art
form in and of itself. By mock musical, I’m referring
to the genre of performance that uses a traditional
musical structure while parodying the clichés associated with the genre; Urinetown, Batboy, and Forbidden
Broadway are examples. Basically, any show whose
title ends with The Musical! is probably a mock musical. FringeNYC was full of them including Silence! The
Musical, an adaptation of Silence of the Lambs, Fleet
Week: The Musical, The Banger’s Flopera, a contemporary
retelling of Beggar’s Opera, SUV: The Musical!, and
You Again, a musical about cloning. Of this selection,
the only shows I had the opportunity to see were
Banger’s Flopera and Fleet Week. The former proved to
be a tedious example of sophomoric humor - much
like a fraternity kegger with a non-memorable score.
The latter, however, delivered a clever script with
well-written music and exceptional performers. The
lesson learned from these performances is that the
music must be good in order for a mock musical to
work and under no circumstances should the script
include a rap.
Lesson #2: The one person show needs visual aids.
Whether it’s due to the cheap cost at presenting these
shows or the fact that every theatre major feels they
have something interesting to say, one person shows
have staked their claim on the American Theatre.
FringeNYC was full of them; the difference is that
they are turning to visual aides and/or advanced
technical elements to enliven the performance. As a
rule, I typically steer clear of any one-person show
unless that person happens to be Lily Tomlin, Anna
Deveare Smith, or John Leguizamo. However, I was
persuaded into attending Jesus in Montana, a one-man
show about a real-life prophet who believes he is the
harbinger for the second coming of Christ living in
Missoula, Montana. The only redeeming aspect of
this play was the visual humor provided by a slide
show that detailed a twenty-something artist who
leaves his home in order to worship this Montana
Messiah. I learned that most of the one person shows
at the Fringe employed similar technical elements. I
BIG APPLE
Queer, Dykapalooza, or A Lesbian in
have seen the second coming of the the Pantry. Given the current politiCustomer Service and interaction with one person show – and its name is
cal climate, it should come as no
Exhibit guests. Give tours. Assists guests in
“Power Point Presentation.”
surprise that gay marriage is one
learning and facilitates use of interactives
in Science City and KC Rail experience. Lesson #3: Fringe still favors nar- of the hottest topics addressed. The
Requires a High School diploma. Flexible
must-see word on the street when I
rative work.
hours including weekends, evenings and
arrived at Fringe central was a play
holidays required. Six months or more Despite all the developments in
entitled Lightning Field which told
experience in youth services/education.
contemporary performance, the the story of a gay couple and their
Part-Time. Union Station Human Resources
Dept, RE: Exhibit Attendant, 30 W. Fringe still covets narrative work. divorced parents on a vacation to
Pershing Road, Kansas City, MO 64108, or Sure, there was ample supply of Walter De Maria’s environmental
email your résumé to: employment@union dance pieces and the nouveau art display in New Mexico’s desert.
station.org. No phone calls please. Posted vaudevillians, but the crux of Fringe
The play was as electric as its title,
09-02-05
maintains a symbiotic balance with addressing themes such as divorce,
the well-made play. Most of the hot- spousal abuse, infidelity, and the
Director, Children’s Performing Theatre
Director for spring production of Charlotte’s ticket items and the best work I saw sacrifice inherent in the sanctity of
Web and possible future directing positions were narrative, linear works whose marriage. I wouldn’t be surprised
for our 2006-2007 season. Directing success was due to a solid script as to see this play popping up Offchildren ages 5-16 a positive. Prior opposed to virtuosic performances.
Broadway in future seasons.
Directing experience needed. Part-Time,
For example, Ratface by J. Snodgrass
Percentage of profit of show. Email resume
Lesson #5: There are no conservato [email protected] or fax to 816-224- was an interesting piece about a
4197. Attention Sandy Dempsey. Roger teenager whose failed suicide at- tives on the Fringe.
T Sermon Center, Independence, MO tempt brings his family and friends It should come as no surprise that
64050, (816) 228-5491, www.childrens together to help him succeed in the
Fringe artists typically lean to the
performingtheatre.org. Posted 08-29-05 R
act. The work echoed the non-real- left of the political spectrum. Fringistic style of Christopher Durang ing provides an optimal platform
delivering a humorous approach for artists to address contemporary
to a macabre subject. Likewise, my political concerns that have no
Continued from page 14
favorite piece of the Fringe, God’s prospect of being highlighted on
The challenge to public broadcast- Waiting Room, told a Sartre-esque
FOX news. Shows such as The Miss
ing may be centered on political story of four individuals stuck in
Education of Jenna Bush, Warfield
and public affairs programming, Purgatory for sins they don’t unUSA, and Weddings of Mass Destrucbut all PBS and NPR programming derstand. This piece became the
tion provided political commentary
will suffer if the cuts proposed epitome of my Fringe experience
while infusing the “sorry state of
by the House Appropriations with the perfect balance of form,
the nation” with humor and lightCommittee are forced through. content, and expression – an engagness. I particularly enjoyed WedMy kids learned to enjoy books ing work that took the audience by
dings of Mass Destruction, which
through “Reading Rainbow”, dug surprise.
can only be described as a political
into geography with “Carmen
cabaret with gay themes. Each skit
Sandiego”, and met new friends Lesson #4: To quote The Producers,
delivered an amusing view into
on “Sesame Street” and “Postcards “Make it Gay!”
our contemporary political landfrom Buster”. I’ve never found Gay culture has often been exscape addressing such themes as
classical concerts or Gilbert & Sul- pressed most eloquently and efairport security, gay adoption, gay
livan performances on any other fectively through the theatre and
culture on cable television, sexual
free television channel or radio FringeNYC is no exception, whether
promiscuity, televised political
station. Where will we explore the it be a gay contemporary retelling of
debate, and, of course, gay marmore thoughtful side of life with- Schnitzler’s classic La Ronde retitled
out public broadcasting? R
Seduction, The Day the World Went
Exhibits Attendant, Union Station
BROADCASTING
14 • KCSTAGE
OCTOBER 2005 • 3
“Critics? I love every bone in their heads.” ~ Eugene O’Neill
BROADCASTING
spearheaded an effort to address
the issue, amid denials of bias by
NPR and PBS officials.
Tim Graham, director of Media
Analysis at the right-wing Media
Research Center, harshly criticized
what he called the “explicitly political” nature of CPB. He called it
a “fat, happy establishment” of liberal bias that is “clearly solicitous
of the enemy” in its reporting on
such issues as the regime of Saddam Hussein.
“Americans overwhelmingly see
public broadcasting as an unbiased information source,” Rep.
David Obey (Wis.), the ranking
Democrat on the subcommittee,
said in mid-June. “Perhaps that’s
what the GOP finds so offensive
about it. Republican leaders are
trying to bring every facet of the
federal government under their
control. . . . Now they are trying
to put their ideological stamp on
public broadcasting.”
Public broadcasting has not entirely fulfilled the vision of its
1967 founders. But its scores of
awards for quality programming
and hard-hitting investigative
journalism, and the loyalty of its
viewers, attest to the fact that public broadcasting is an essential part
of our democracy. In a poll last year
by a non-partisan research firm,
Americans ranked PBS the “most
trusted institution” among national
institutions. And the biggest single
source of revenue in 2004 for public
broadcasting entities - 26.1% - was
membership.
FILM CLIPS
Rich Ambler is gearing up to shoot Sorry,
Dad in Kansas City. The documentary
focuses on the father of convicted murderer
Jeffery Dahmer.
FILM FESTIVAL
Part III: Alloy the Conductor
Sunday Sept. 11: On the anniversary of the deaths of 4,000 people, I
Be sure to watch CBS on Oct 9 for The watched an amazing restoration of
Hunt for the BTK Killer which is based on the silent classic, “Phantom of the
the Wichita, KS murders. They are presently Opera,” although it wasn’t comin production with some well-known pletely silent. The Alloy OrchesHollywood stars.
tra provided musical accompaniJeremy Osbern and Chris Blunk had a nice ment live onstage. This is similar
article published about them and their to what was done back in 1925,
movie Air which is currently in production.
except back then they just used eiwww.screenmag.tv/feature.aspx?fid=751
ther a piano or an organ. The AlNeeding Production Designer with film loy used a keyboard, drums, and
experience: RestEZ – feature, Aris Blevins,
chimes – the most rocking chimes
[email protected], Shoots this fall in
Lawrence, Kansas City and Topeka, Paid I’ve ever heard! And it sounded
wonderful. It was thunderous and
position.
very thematic. It really set the tone
If you are an independent filmmaker and
need professional editing and graphics of the film.
with special low rates, contact WIBW-TV in
Topeka, KS. They have just announced the
availability of these services and are eager
to be a part of our projects. Telephone
them at 785-272-6397 extension 605 for
information. R
Compiled by Larry Levenson • llevenson@
kcstage.com
Which reminds me: I should write
about the film. It was OK. The
most amazing thing in it is the
scary-ass make-up on Lon Chaney
wears. That stuff can still scare the
(bleep) out of anyone today. The
worst thing about it was the one
Technicolor sequence. We went
from the black and white tint to the
watercolor looking stuff. It was too
jarring: proof that filmmakers like
to get high. R
RUNNING GAG
Gag Runneth Over
by Ry Kincaid • [email protected]
SPOTLIGHT
Michelle Diane Brown
by Angie Fiedler • [email protected]
I wish to bid a fine adieu to you
‘Running Gag’ readers as I end my
stint at KC Stage. I want to challenge myself by writing in other
ventures. KC Stage has been very
generous to me, letting my mind
go to pieces and then putting them
back together in print.
“My vision and goal in starting off
was to try and bypass that stage of
smallness, if you will, where you are
doing so much of the work for free.”
So states Michelle Diane Brown,
artistic director of Kacico Dance,
at how she was having her dance
company’s inaugural performance
at the Folly Theatre. “If I was to start
Maybe the magazine will be cursed
out as a full-time company, I wanted
with my column again, possibly
to try to bump up the level of qualwhen I can think of new ways to
ity. So putting our first performance
incorporate theatre and humor.
at the Folly was a given - they are
(YOU try to do it every month for
really built for dance, and it is a nice
two-plus years. It’s hard.) For now
place to be.”
I walk away from the columnist’s
computer, after waiting for it to Brown’s been a dancer most of her life,
shut down and being prompted becoming a member of Prairie Wind
that it was okay to shut the com- Dancers (now 940 Dance Company)
puter off.
in Lawrence when she was three. She
went to KU, receiving a Bachelor of
Thanks for reading my stuff for
Arts in Dance. Their dance company
these couple of years. All six of
concerts was where her interest in
you. R
choreography came about.
CORRECTION
When she moved to Kansas City, she
helped found and was artistic director
of the aha! dance theatre for 10 years.
The cover photo of the September After taking a year and a half break,
issue was incorrectly attributed to she formed Kacico (short for Kansas
Angie Fiedler. The photographer City Contemporary). “The emphasis
was actually by Kate Egan. Our is on contemporary dance,” Brown
apologies. R
says. “It’s to push the level of quality
and delve into improv and tap.”
Her inspiration comes from almost
everything. “I have to pick and
choose ideas of inspiration,” Brown
says. “Anything that would be a good
piece of art - from pedestrians crossing the street to a historical choreographer I admire. I grab onto an idea
and play with it in as many different
ways I can to see what it needs to be
as a final dance.”
Contemporary dance is almost a
cause for her, as she feels the dance
world is filled with what she calls
“disingenuous work”. “There’s
a fine line, because you’ve got to
attract audiences and commercial
work is what attracts them. A lot
of times, university programs are
geared in one direction, and when
you get into the real world, there’s
millions of approaches and you have
to be open minded and explore. To
me, the dancer that attracts me more
is that they have to be open minded
where they can go places new. A lot
of modern dance is about exploration
and trying new things. You have to
be able to play and explore.”
Her goal is to have Kansas City
dance be considered on the same
level as New York. “I don’t think
it’s that far away,” Brown says.
Her inspiration and role models
come from the Doug Varone and
Dancers dance company. “I keep
a performance I saw in the back of
my mind as an inspiration to try and
reach that level - level of craft, level
of experience, level of movement,
and level of quality.” She also looks
to the artistic director of 940 Dance
Company, Susan Warden. “She’s
been kind of a mentor for quite a
while for me. She’s someone who
has great respect for dance and what
it is as an art form. She expects a lot
out of me, and has helped push me
find more.”
Brown readily admits she doesn’t
do this alone. She constantly refers
back to the other dance members
of Kacico, and how the company
is dependent on them. “Right from
the audition they impressed me with
an open mind and a willingness to
explore.” R
4 • KCSTAGE
OCTOBER 2005 • 13
“The two most beautiful words in the English language are ‘check enclosed.’” ~ Dorothy Parker
FILM FESTIVAL
Feasting on Film in Kansas
he can lure Sky back into his arms
forever. Things go south, and caps
are popped into a major character’s
ass.
scum of society: drug dealers, parking meter cops, politicians, and car
By Kyle Parris • [email protected]
thieves. They carry around a video
Part I: Taking It In
camera to record their deeds, which
is what a bulk of the film is. Moder
I went to the Glenwood Arts
Lindsey plays Daizy Duke, one
plays the role of the flawed cop that
Theatre for the Kansas Internaof G’s young protégés. She’s very
chases them from crime scene to
tional Film Festival (KIFF) opening
funny and sweet in the role. In the
crime scene. 99.9999% of the film
night. I walked down the aisle and
last sequence, she sings a funeral
is absolutely compelling. What
plumped my ass down in the aisle
dirge. She’s got some major game as
keeps it from being perfect is the
seat. The first film of the first night
a singer. And overall, the film is one
fact that it’s not clear whether the
is G, directed by Chris Scott Cherot
of the best of the year. Everything
hero lives or dies at the end. Other
and co-produced by Charles Drew,
about it clicks. The writing, the actthan that, the film works on every
Jr., who stopped into town for the
ing, the directing, the scenery. I relevel: writing, acting, and directscreening. Festival organizer Ben
ally can’t find a flaw. I don’t want
ing. It’s hard hitting stuff. It ain’t
Meade, a great filmmaker in his
to either.
for the squeamish.
own right, went to the front and
kicked everything off. He intro- After the film, Drew and Lindsey
After the film, the Aussie three
duced Drew and young actress went to the front for a Q&A. The
went up for a Q&A. The film is
Jillian Lindsey, who plays a minor film was based on Cherot’s play of
loosely based on real events that
role. They said how much they’ve the same name. It’ll be released next
took place in Melbourne in the late
enjoyed Kansas City all afternoon. week in Baltimore, Charlotte, and
Eighties. The violence is so real that
Then Meade intro’d the film with two other cities in the US. They’d rethe cops were called in to the set on
probably the best review anyone ally like to open it in KC, but it’s not
some occasions. And that’s a real
on the schedule yet. It hasn’t been
could ever give of it.
car ramming into a real house.
on any theaters schedule for a while.
They said they loved KC so far.
“It portrays black culture without
It was shot in ‘02. It’s about freakin’
Especially the BBQ. They gave a
degrading it,” he said. Then the
time. I guess the industry doesn’t
special shout-out to Ollie Gates.
flick started.
know what to do with a smart black
G is a hip-hop version of The Great film that doesn’t degrade the black Part II: The Boring and the Beast
Gatsby. You know, that book you community like Booty Call does.
Saturday Sept. 10, 7pm: So I’m back
tossed aside in 9th grade English
After I make my connections with at the Glenwood Arts Theatre. Toclass. Tre (Andre Royo) heads to
Drew and Lindsey, my friend El- night they’re showing films prethe Hamptons to hang with his
liot Threatt, the All Comedy Radio sented by the Lucid Media Undercousin Sky Hightower (Chenoa
star, walks up to me, telling me that ground Arts Festival, which is part
Maxwell) and her husband, Chip
I ought to stay for the next film, of KIFF. Then ten shorts, eight of
(Blair Underwood). He hears that
Razor Eaters. I heard that it was which were as boring as hell. Two
mysterious rap mogul Summer G
ultra-violent and not for the easily were of note: Soul Circus, about the
(Richard T. Jones) lives down the
offended. Of course I had to see it. only black owned/operated circus,
street. Tre, a writer by trade, goes
Director Shannon Young, lead actor and Hotel Hopscotch, about the hoto G’s party to hook up an interPaul Moder and co-producer Nick tels that cater to crack addicts and
view with him for the magazine
Levy were on hand from Australia hookers.
he works for. Turns out G and
to show their film. And none of
I left that screening early since
Sky were an item back in college.
them wore AC/DC T-shirts!
I was so bored. I went down to
She dumped him for Chip. Chip,
Razor
Eaters
really
is
an
ultra-vioMetcalf South Mall to the Men’s
however, is bangin’ a ho on the
side. G turns the parties up Diddy lent film about a group of vigilantes Wearhouse which is serving as a
style in the Hamptons, all so that who brutalize people they deem the
FILM FESTIVAL
greenroom for the attendees and
filmmakers. At that moment, PETA
type people were serving vegan
meals. See, while watching celluloid splooge of snotty artistes, the
doc Peaceable Kingdom was wrapping up. It details the unethical
treatment of animals by corporate
farmers. Former state Rep. Karen
McCarthy called it “terrifying”.
That’s how I would describe the
vegan food, although the organic
orange juice was good.
to butt naked asses, but I think this
was an inappropriate place and time
to show it.
At 9pm, I went to see the film I
most wanted to see. Derailroaded,
directed by Josh Rubin, is a documentary about Larry “Wild Man”
Fischer. That name rings a bell for
all the geeks like me. We grew up
on Dr. Demento (which can still be
heard on 99.7 KY on Sunday nights),
and one of the songs he played was
Fischer’s My Name Is Larry!, which
he sings a cappella at the top of his
During the feast, a large screened lungs, giving shout outs to each
TV was showing Taylor Mead’s Ass, of his family members (“I’ve got
a 76 minute Warhol film that’s just a brother, his name is David, HI
a straight uncut shot of, well, read DAVID!!). Every Christmas we
the title. I think the only reason heard I’m a Christmas Tree, a duet
they showed it at all is because it he sang with Dr. D himself (“PEOwas a Warhol film. I’m not opposed PLE THROW ME OUT ON NEW
YEAR’S EVE!”).
a lot of people. People like Dr. D,
Bill Mumy (the Lost In Space kid
actor who did Fish Heads as half of
Barnes and Barnes), and one Frank
Zappa.
Zappa immediately signed Fischer
to his Bizarre label and produced
his first album, An Evening With
Wild Man Fischer, a double album.
Everybody who heard his stuff
liked it, but his condition continually alienated everyone. His short
relationship with Zappa came to a
screeching halt when Fischer threw
a bottle at baby Moon Unit’s head.
He became convinced that Dr. D
and Weird Al Yankovic plotted to
kill him, so he wouldn’t do shows
with them anymore.
He started to sing out in front of
a new record store in L.A. called
Rhino Records. He made a song for
The film tells the them called Come To Rhino Records.
harrowing story So they signed him to their record
of his childhood. label. He was the first artist signed
His father died to Rhino, now a multimillion dolwhile he was a lar company. Unfortunately, his
child, his mother paranoia deepened.
brutally
beat
It’s a truly heartbreaking docuhim, and then he
mentary that touched a nerve in
developed parame. My best friend is a paranoid
noia-schizophreschizophrenic. I’ve been through
nia. His mom
the 15 calls a day, listening to him
institutionalized
accuse the FBI of stealing his notehim twice as a
books, watching him get angry at
teen. When he got
strangers for staring at him and
older, his condisaying racial slurs when in fact
tion worsened,
they didn’t do anything at all. His
and the only way
$400 a month meds aren’t taking
he could make
care of everything either. It’s a
any money was
devastating doc for music lovers
by singing songs
and people whose loved ones are
to people on the
schizophrenic.
sidewalk
for
a dime, which
caught the eye of
12 • KCSTAGE
*Affiliate Theatre
PERFORMANCES
Union Station Kansas City, Inc.
Shine Shows
“The Last Five Years” by Jason Robert
Brown: Sep 29-Oct 1: 8pm Thr-Sat; 2pm
Sat.
A fantastic love story about the last five
years of a marriage. She tells the story from
the end of the relationship, while he tells
it from their first date to the end of their
marriage. A beautiful piece full of passion
and amazing music. A roller coaster ride
for your emotions. $15 Public, $10 Group
(15+), USKC Members, 12 & under,
H & R Block City Stage, Union Station
(816) 460-2020, www.unionstation.org
(Suitable for Everyone)
Theatre for Young America
“Trains Across America” by Danny Cox:
Sep 20-Oct 1: 12pm Thr-Fri; 10am TueFri; 2pm Sat.
All aboard for the return trip! Kansas City
singer/songwriter Danny Cox salutes the
history made by trains in this original
production packed with adventure, drama
and humor. Kids love trains and they’ll
love this musical tribute about how trains
changed America $7.50 Public, $5.50
TYA & USKC Members, $5 groups (15+),
Wildcat Theatre*
Common Ground by Brendon Votipka:
Oct 27: 7pm Thr.
Several singular young people attempt
to communicate and evaluate each other
as they converse in a coffee shop. The
OCTOBER 2005 • 5
“New York is the meeting place of the peoples, the only city where you can hardly find a typical American.” ~ Djuna Barnes
kaleidoscopic scenes range from poignant
and nostalgic to heartbreaking and hopefuland most often funny. Directed by Andy
Penn. Featuring Katie Black (Amber), Devin
Burns (Blake), Nathan Giesecke (Caleb),
Skyler Smith (Emma), Kaia Nycklemoe
(Hallie), Kylie Less (Kylie), Olivia Cruz
(Leslie), Mikaila Broyles (Madison), Alex
Milam (Miles), Sam Foster (Noah), Morgan
DeSoignie (Ryann), Matt Zayas (Scott),
Kalee Isbell (Sierra. Adults-$3; Senior
Citizens/ Students-$2; Children (5-11)-$1;
Children (<5)-Free, Chisholm Trail Junior
High School Auditorium, 16700 W 159th
Street (913) 780-7240, apenncst@olathe
schools.com (Suitable for Everyone)
William Jewell College Theatre*
A Raisin in the Sun by Lorraine Hansberry:
Oct 6-Oct 8: 8pm Thr-Sat.
Hansberry’s landmark play about racial
prejudice, set in Chicago’s south side.
(Drama) Directed by Kim B. Harris. $6,
Peters Theater, Brown Hall (816) 415-7590,
[email protected]
(Suitable
for Everyone) R
ARTS AWARDS
ponents of a larger organization,
current members of the Commission or its staff, previous Governor’s
Arts Award or Governor’s Artist
honorees, self-nominations, and
posthumous nominations. Nominations may not be submitted by
current members of the Commission or its staff.
Award recipients will be chosen
from among the nominees by a Selection Panel including members of
the Commission, a representative of
the Governor, and representatives
of various arts disciplines and organizations.
Complete guidelines and a list of
previous awardees may be found
on their website arts.state.ks.us. R
FILM CLIPS
MTV was in Kansas City for about nine
days in August casting and shooting High
School Stories based on an incident that
happened in an area school.
Casting directors and producers of
America’s Next Top Model held auditions
at the downtown Marriott Hotel in Kansas
City, MO seeking contestants for next
season’s show.
Producers for the independent feature A
Ripple in the World were looking for PA’s
and interns for the movie. It will be shot in
the Columbia, MO area.
A Kansas City Location Scout was contacted
by Killer Films in New York looking for
small towns around northeastern Kansas
and information about the Leavenworth
and Lansing prisons. The movie was shot
last spring with Sandra Bullock, Gwyneth
Paltrow, Peter Bogdanovich, Jeff Daniels
and Sigourney Weaver; however, the
director explained they wanted to send a
second unit out to Kansas for additional
footage. Every Word is True (working title)
is set in Garden City, KS and Holcombe,
KS, but lensed in Austin, TX. Scouting took
place in Nortonville, Atchison, Oskaloosa,
McClouth, Kansas City and Tonganoxie,
KS. The biography/drama is also known by
the title Have You Heard?, and is slated for
a 2006 release.
A number of shorts were being made
around the Kansas City area in preparation
for screenings of Independent Filmmakers’
Coalition entries to be shown at the Kansas
International Film Festival in Overland
Park, KS.
Roger Ebert gave “Firecracker” 31⁄2 stars in
his review in the Chicago Sun Times. This
feature was shot in and around Wamego,
KS.
Bill Connelly produced and directed an
informational video for Turning Point in
Kansas City. All crew were from Kansas
City as was the spokesperson.
Family Tree Service is looking for a female
spokesperson. Contact familytreeservice
@sbcglobal.net. Interested talent needs
no experience, however they should be
creative and articulate.
CALLBOARD
Lighting Designer, Kacico Dance
Lighting designer for professional dance
company per/project. Previous experience
in lighting dance in a variety of settings.
Commitment to and completion of each
production. Putting necessary time in
within reason to present company at its best
on stage. Ability to work with technical staff
of various theaters and within budget. Able
to take directions from artistic director.
Paid per project. Call 816-578-4721 or email [email protected] with interest.
An interview will be set up. Examples of
work will be requested. Michelle Diane
Brown, Artistic Director, 8621 S. Buckner
Tarsney Rd., Oak Grove, MO 64075.
www.kacicodance.org. Posted 09-07-05
Costume Designer, Kacico Dance
Costume designer for professional dance
company for 2006 season and beyond. Per
project. Experience in costuming dance.
Ability to collaborate and make necessary
changes within reason based on the needs
of Art Dir and dancers. Be able to work
within a budget and in a timely way. Find
ways to make dancers look their best, be
innovative at times and make the costumes
danceable. Paid per project. Call 816-5784721 or e-mail [email protected]
with interest. An interview will be set
up. Examples of work will be requested.
Michelle Diane Brown, Artistic Director,
8621 S. Buckner Tarsney Rd., Oak Grove,
MO 64075. www.kacicodance.org. Posted
09-07-05
Composer, Kacico Dance
Looking for composer to collaborate
with Kacico Dance on a large scale, full
evening production premiering May
2006. Production is family friendly with a
storyline told through contemporary dance.
Must have a creative collaborative nature.
Must work within music budget. Must have
time to complete large scale composition.
$2000-$3000 with the possibilities of
bonuses for subsequent performances.
ARTS AWARDS
Nominations Requested for
Governor’s Arts Awards
Arts Advocate: A Kansas individual, couple, or organization
dedicated to furthering the cause
The Kansas Arts Commission of an artform or the arts in general
announces the deadline date of through promotional, volunteer,
Tuesday, November 1, 2005, for administrative, legislative, or
submitting Governor’s Arts Awards professional efforts. The nominanominations to the Kansas Arts tion should reflect activity beyond
normal expectations or responsiCommission for review.
bilities if the nominee is an arts
The Governor’s Arts Awards recorganization or an employee of an
ognize outstanding contributions to
arts organization.
the excellence, growth, and support
or availability of the arts in Kansas. Arts Organization: A Kansas pubThe Awards focus attention on the lic, not-for-profit organization that
importance of the arts to the qual- presents or provides arts opportuity of life in Kansas by honoring nities to a community, region, or
those who have made major cre- the state as a whole.
ative achievements or significant
Arts Patron (Individual): A Kansas
contributions to cultural growth or
individual, couple or family whose
development.
fiscal generosity and participation
Any individual currently residing has made a noteworthy contribuin Kansas or any business, organization to the arts in a community,
tion or institution involved in arts region, or the state as a whole.
and cultural activities and located
Arts Patron (Organization): A Kanin Kansas at the time of nominasas public or private organization,
tion is eligible to be nominated. An
business or institution who fiscal
organization should be nominated
generosity has made a noteworthy
by someone in the community it
contribution to the arts in a comserves; not by an official of the ormunity, region or the entire state.
ganization.
Nominations are accepted from
Nominations may be submitted in
Kansas Citizens and organizations.
the following categories:
Nominations may be submitted
Individual Artist: A Kansas artist with or without the knowledge
actively working in the disciplines of the nominee, but the nominaof Choreography, Music Composi- tor should check with colleagues,
tion, Film/Video, Playwriting, Fic- board members, or friends of the
tion, Poetry, Interdisciplinary Art, nominee before initiating a nomiPerforming Arts, Two Dimensional nation in order to reduce the posVisual Art, Three Dimensional sibility of duplication and enable
Art, Folk or Traditional Arts, and consolidation of the best information being submitted to support the
Crafts.
nomination.
Art Educator: A Kansas individual
who has devoted a career to teach- Ineligible for nomination are art
ing the arts in an educational envi- projects, programs or service comronment.
6 • KCSTAGE
*Affiliate Theatre
Improv-Abilities
Mr. KC Improv Pageant-Part IV by Tim
Marks: Oct 15: 7:30pm Sat.
Improv-Abilities, a Kansas City professional
comedy troupe uses audience suggestions,
as seen in “Whose Line Is It Anyway?”
The troupe performs all-ages shows in
addition to adults-only performances.
Directed by Tim Marks. $10, The Lucky
Brewgrille, 5401 Johnson Drive (913)
871-6242, www.kcimprov.com (Suitable
for Everyone)
American Heartland Theatre
Buddy... The Buddy Holly Story by Alan
Janes and Rob Bettinson: Oct 28-Jan 1:
8pm Fri-Sat; 2pm Sun.
Buddy... The Buddy Holly Story brings to
life those magical early days of rock ‘n roll
when a skinny kid from Texas burst on
the scene with a new sound and songs
destined to become classics. You’ll hear
them all: “Everyday,” “Peggy Sue,” “That’ll
Be the Day,” “Johnny Be Good,” “Rave
On,” “Oh Boy” and more. Plus, you’ll be
wowed by “guest” appearances from The
Big Bopper and Ritchie Valens in a roofraising finale. $18 to $35.50 depending on
day of performance, American Heartland
Theatre, 2450 Grand Blvd (816) 842-9999,
www. ahtkc.com (Suitable for Everyone)
Rose’s Dilemma by Neil Simon: Sep 9-Oct
23: 8pm Tue-Sat; 2pm Sat-Sun; 1pm Wed;
7pm Sun; 4pm Sat.
Neil Simon’s brand new comedy finds
celebrated writer Rose Stern running
out of money and needing the next “big
thing” fast! When her former lover, literary
lion Walsh McLaren, returns from the
grave to “inhabit” her Hamptons beach
house and help as a ghostwriter, she
leaps at the chance. It’s a manuscript for
merriment and fun. A touching, funny,
unpredictable and romantic frolic from
America’s favorite playwright. Directed by
Sidonie Garrett. Featuring Jennifer Mays
(Arlene), Donna Thomason (Rose), Jim
Korinke (Walsh), Brian Paulette (Gavin).
Crew: Sidonie Garrett (Director), William
J Christie (Stage Manager), Roger Stoddard
(Sound Design), Shane Rowse (Lighting
Design), Mary Traylor (Costume Design),
Del Unruh (Scenic Design), William J
Christie (Properties Design), Gary Mosby
(Scenic Construction), Dennis Coffman
OCTOBER 2005 • 11
PERFORMANCES
(Sound Board Operator), Leah Bigley,
Tim Boeshaar, Diane Bulan, Aaron M
Clark, Cameron Jaques, Chris Jones, Brian
MacLean, Nick Mosher, Lee Saylor. $17 to
$32.50 depending on day of performance,
American Heartland Theatre, 2450 Grand
Blvd (816) 842-9999, www.ahtkc.com
Avila University Theatre Department*
First Lady Suite by Michael John Lachuisa:
Sep 29-Oct 2: 8pm Thr-Sat; 2pm Sun.
This musical comedy looks at the
relationships of some of the most treasured
First Ladies ever to grace the White House.
Call for Ticket Prices, Goppert Theatre at
Avila University, 11901 Wornall Road
(816) 501-3699, www.avila.edu/depart
ments/theatre (Suitable for Everyone)
Belton High School Theatre*
Romeo & Juliet by William Shakespeare:
Oct 27-30: 7pm Thr-Sat; 2pm Sun.
Directed by Joel Short. 6 at the door, 5 with
advance reservation, Belton High Forum
Theatre, 107 W. Pirate Parkway (816) 3482721, [email protected] (Suitable
for Everyone)
Blue Springs City Theatre*
Center Stage Players present “ENCORE”:
Oct 6-9: 7:30pm Thr-Sat; 2pm Sun.
A musical revue of American hits throughout
the Decades. Performed by an elite group of
singers, dancers, and actors ages 4 to 60.
This is a benefit performance for the Blue
Springs City Theatre. For more information
please visit our website at www.bluespri
ngscitytheatre.com Directed by Dwenah
Tomlin. $6 general admission seating for
everyone, Blue Springs Civic Center, 2000
Northwest Ashton Drive (816) 228-0137,
www.bluespringscitytheatre.com (Suitable
for Everyone)
Central Missouri State University*
MacBeth by William Shakespeare: Oct 4-8:
7:30pm Tue-Sat.
A bloody tale of manipulation, revenge,
betrayal and vaulting ambition. Considered
one of Shakespeare’s greatest and darkest
tragedies, MacBeth is a dynamic theatrical
experience, a forceful, violent, and
supernatural examination of the power of
individual morality. Our production will
embrace its universal themes by placing
PERFORMANCES
the action in an urban American city
in 2006. Directed by Richard Herman.
$10 general, $8 faculty and seniors, $6
students, Highlander Theatre, Central
Missouri State University (660) 543-8811,
www.cmsu.edu/theatre (Adult Fare)
CinnamonEye
Ubu Roi by Alfred Jarry and Matt and Ben
by Mindy Kaling and Brenda Withers: Oct
6-8: 8pm Thr-Sat; 2:30pm Sat.
Two Kansas City premieres. Variety calls
Matt and Ben a “pop culture phenomenon”.
Ubu Roi is a French classic by Alfred Jarry
with a new contemporary attack. Matt
and Ben are played by Angela Zieber
and Lindsey Voetsch. Sara Crow directs.
Ubu Roi features Kevin Eib, Jeffrey Jacobs,
Melissa Legg, and Lee Ann Puckhabber.
Jason Vivone directs. Performances are
8pm with a Saturday matinee at 2:30pm.
For more details, call 816-454-4566. Call
for Ticket Prices, Westport Coffee House,
4010 Pennsylvania (816) 454-4566, Jason_
[email protected] (Adult Fare)
ComedyCity*
Kansas City’s Original Comedy Sports:
May 16-Jul 29: 7:30pm Thr-Sat; 10pm FriSat; 5pm Sat.
Competitive improvised humor played
like a sporting event complete with
astro-turf, the National Anthem, referee,
penalties, and fouls. Kansas City’s longest
running comedy show, running nonstop since 1987. It’s family appropriate
humor, suitable for all ages. $13 per show,
ComedyCity, 300 Charlotte (816) 8422744, www.comedycity.cc (Suitable for
Everyone)
Chaos Theatre
Monkeys With Handgrenades: Feb 18-Jul
21: 10pm Fri.
Come join in the fun of “Monkeys With
Hand Grenades” as performers complete
30 sketches in only 60 minutes in a
random order chosen by the audience.
The Pandemonium Players are always
hard at work writing feverishly for the
new upcoming shows. “Monkeys with
Hand Grenades” will as always include 15
brand new plays and free pizza after the
show!!! $13, ComedyCity, 300 Charlotte
(816) 842-2744, www.comedycity.cc
(Adult Fare)
of all ages! Directed by Nathan Jeffrey.
Featuring Kendall Alexander (Linus Van
Pelt), Scott Browne (Schroeder), Robin
Carroll-Dolci (Snoopy), Jeffrey Fellin
(Charlie Brown), Deanna Harmon (Sally
Brown), Betsy Morken (Lucy Van Pelt).
Crew: Letitia R. Harmon (Stage Manager),
Letitia R. Harmon (Assistant Director),
Brendan Shaughnessy (Lighting Design),
Michelle England (Set Design), Michelle
England (Costume Design), Laurie Schwab
(Accompanists), Tim Schwab (Percussion).
$10 for adults, $6.50 for students 21 and
under, Central Church of the Nazarene,
12600 87th St. Parkway (Suitable for
Everyone)
New Theatre Restaurant
Two Can Play by A. J. Carrothers: Aug
31-Nov 6: 12pm Sat-Sun, Tue-Wed; 6pm
Tue-Sun.
Two Can Play, starring Hayley Mills is
a modern, intelligent, romantic comedy
about an estranged married couple who
run into each other at a class reunion.
He wants to rekindle the flame while
she has other ideas. Directed by Richard
Carrothers. Call theatre box office at 913649-7469 for information, New Theatre
Restaurant, 9229 Foster (913) 649-SHOW,
www.newtheatre.com (Adult Fare)
Park University Theatre*
The Laramie Project by Moises Kaufman &
the members of Tectonic Theater Project:
Sep 30-Oct 8: 8pm Fri-Sat.
In October 1998 a 21 year old student at
the University of Wyoming was kidnapped,
severely beaten and left to die, tied to a
fence outside Laramie. His bloody, bruised
and battered body wasn’t discovered until
the next day, and he died several days later.
His name was Matthew Shepard, and was
the victim of this assault because he was
gay. The Laramie Project is a breathtaking
theatrical collage that explores the depths
to which humanity can sink, and the
heights of compassion we are capable of.
Directed by marsha morgan. $8, Jenkin
& Barbara David Theater, Alumni Hall,
Park University Home Campus (816) 5846450, captain.park.edu/theatre (Suitable
for Everyone)
Puppetry Arts Institute
The Velveteen Rabbit: Oct 22: 2pm, 11am
Sat.
Arriving plush and new, the Velveteen
Rabbit yearns for the attention of his
owner, the Boy. The mechanical toys
seem to be the Boy’s favorites and make
fun of the little rabbit. “What is real?” the
Velveteen Rabbit asks his friend, the toy
horse. The answer comes in a powerful
message about love and the transformation
that children understand and cherish.
Katie Adams of Tampa, Florida presents
this poignant, heart-warming classic with
puppets, storytelling, and colorful scenery.
$5 per person regardless of age, Puppetry
Arts Institute, 11025 E. Winner Road (816)
833-9777, www.hazelle.org (Intended for
Children)
Quality Hill Playhouse
New York State of Mind: Sep 9-Oct 9: 3pm
Sat-Sun; 1pm Wed-Thr; 8pm Tue-Sun.
A musical toast to “the city that never
sleeps” with songs from and about the Big
Apple, including music from the New York
cabaret scene Directed by J. Kent Barnhart.
$23 adults; $21 students, seniors, groups,
Quality Hill Playhouse, 303 West 10th
St. (816) 421-1700, www.QualityHillPlay
house.com (Suitable for Everyone)
The Mystery Train
Who’s In First? by Wendy Thompson: Sep
22-Nov 19: 7pm Thr-Sat.
It’s 1914, and the railroad barons have
changed the face of Kansas City. Opening
day for the beautiful Union Station has the
rich, the famous, and the devious caught up
in a train race to be the first to pull out of the
new station. There may be too much riding
on this train, though. A sudden death,
suspicious passengers, and the need to
uncover a murderer may be more important
than “who’s in first”! Directed by Wendy
Thompson. $49-$59, The Mystery Train,
Union Cafe (816) 813-9654 (Adult Fare)
Theatre Atchison, Inc.
Charlotte’s Web by E.B. White; Dramatized
by Joseph Robinette: Oct 7-Oct 8: 7pm Fri;
2pm Sat.
Directed by Julie Anne Dulin. $5 for all
ages-general admission, Theatre Atchison,
Inc., 401 Santa Fe (913) 367-SHOW, www.
theatreatchison.org (Suitable for Everyone)
*Affiliate Theatre
UMKC
The Importance of Being Earnest by Oscar
Wilde: Sep 24-Oct 2: 7:30pm Tue-Sat;
2pm Sun.
Oscar Wilde called his play “a trivial
comedy for serious people.” Noel Coward,
speaking of Earnest in a moment of
unintended but marvelous irony, said, “It
is extraordinary that such a posing artificial
old queen should have written one of the
greatest comedies in the English language!”
The Importance of Being Earnest takes
a seriously funny look at the hypocrisies
of high society and the great importance
of being asked to stay to tea! Directed
by Joseph Price. Adult $12, Seniors $10,
Students $6; call Central Ticket Office for
more information 816-235-6222, Studio
116, 4949 Cherry, www.umkc.edu/theatre
Unicorn Theatre
Unicorn and Coterie
I Am My Own Wife by Doug Wright: Sep
9-Oct 9: 7:30pm Tue; 8pm Wed-Sat; 3pm
Sun.
The Kansas City Star recently described I
Am My Own Wife as, “one of the more
surprising plays to win the Pulitzer. It’s
a one-actor show whose central figure
is Charlotte von Mahlsdorf, a German
transvestite who survived World War II
and the totalitarian state of East Germany.”
Directed by Cynthia Levin. $15-$25,
Unicorn Theatre, 3828 Main Street (816)
531-7529, www.unicorntheatre.org (Adult
Fare)
The Retreat from Moscow by William
Nicholson: Oct 21-Nov 13: 7:30pm Tue;
8pm Wed-Sat; 3pm Sun.
How well do we know the people we
marry? Is love enough to save a family?
In The Retreat from Moscow, William
Nicholson tells the powerful story of a
husband who decides to be truthful in his
marriage, and of the wife and son whose
lives will never be the same again. With
the coiled intensity of Tom Stoppard
and the embracing empathy of Edward
Albee, The Retreat from Moscow shines a
breathtakingly natural light on the fallout
of a shattered marriage. range from $15$25, Unicorn Theatre, 3828 Main Street
(816) 531-7529, www.unicorntheatre.org
(Adult Fare)
10 • KCSTAGE
*Affiliate Theatre
Kacico Dance *
Premiere at the Folly Theater: Oct 7-22:
8pm Fri-Sat; 7pm Fri.
Kacico Dance presents its premiere
KC concert at the Folly Theater. New
contemporary dance works by Brown
in collaboration with Steve Morse and
Nathan Woodward, KC composers, and
the LSNHS Crimson Camerata Choir
will be performed along with audience
favorites, “Above Morning,” music by
Philip Glass and “Face,” music by Jesse
Cook.*Saturday’s
concert
includes
“Seventeen,” a new solo to music by
Arvo Part with adult language. Join us
for a pre-performance chat at 7:30pm
in the theater. Directed by Michelle
Diane Brown, Artistic Director. Featuring
Kathryn Alexander, Bobbi Foudree, Marisa
MacKay, Shandi Miller, Yosh Gregory,
Julie DeLancey-Rudolph, Lindsay Spilker.
Crew: Lisa Weinshrott (Lighting Design),
Michael Kimmel (Lighting Design),
Steve Ottmann (Lights/Sound), Alyson
Schacherer (Costume Design, Properties),
Michelle Diane Brown (Choreographer).
$20, $12 Student and Senior, Folly
Theater, 301 W 11th St. (816) 474-4444,
www.kacicodance.org
(Suitable
for
Everyone)
Move It! by Kacico Dance: Oct 7: 7pm
Fri.
A mini performance of contemporary
dance followed by a dance improvisation
workshop featuring Kacico Dance in
collaboration with Kansas Siddhi Yoga of
Blue Springs MO. $15/ person, Kansas
Siddhi Yoga, 1120 S. Main 2nd Fl
(816) 474-4444, www.kacicodance.org
Kansas City Repertory Theatre
“Give ‘em Hell, Harry” by Samuel Gallu:
Oct 7-Nov 6: 8pm Thr-Sat; 7pm Sat-Sun,
Tue-Thr; 3pm Sat; 2pm Sun, Wed.
The Rep brings to life one of the most
important figures in Kansas City history–
Harry S. Truman, the haberdasher who
became president. Come to the Oval
Office as this unpretentious Missourian
copes with the challenges of leading
America. The man who doted on his
daughter, answered to his better half,
and never became too grand to chat with
OCTOBER 2005 • 7
PERFORMANCES
PERFORMANCES
neighbors at his Independence home.
Gary Neal Johnson will portray Truman
in this show to be produced in the H&R
Block City Stage Theatre in Union Station.
Featuring Gary Neal Johnson* (Harry S.
Truman. Tickets available from KC Rep Box
Office 816-235-2700 or toll-free at 888502-2700 or online line at KCRep.org, H
& R Block City Stage, Union Station (816)
460-2020, www.unionstation.org (Suitable
for Everyone)
dazzling ladies from “Mame,” “Hello,
Dolly!” “Mack and Mabel,” “La Cage Aux
Folles,” and “Milk and Honey” will take
the stage by storm. Directed by Terrance
McKerrs, Director; Mary Baker. Fri/Sat
$19-$20 plus tax, Thurs/Sun $17-$18
plus tax, Lawrence Community Theatre,
1501 New Hampshire St. (785) 8437469, theatre.lawrence.com (Suitable for
Everyone)
Man and Superman by George Bernard
Shaw: Sep 23-Oct 16: 8pm Fri-Sat; 7pm
Sun, Tue-Thr; 3pm Sat; 2pm Sun, Wed.
John Tanner, an idealistic and strong-willed
young writer, flees when he discovers that
the beautiful and wealthy Ann Whitefield
has been made his ward, and he deduces
that she is in love with him and planning
marriage. In his effort to escape he tries
all the strategies he can invent, but the
resourceful Ann is not so easily shaken
off and follows in hot and clever pursuit.
Shaw shows us he is a genius of romantic
comedy with the sparkling battle of the
sexes. Directed by Sharon Ott. Featuring
Christine Marie Brown (Violet Robinson),
Ruth Eglsaer (Ann Whitefield), Ian Fraser
(Octavius), Peggy Friesen (Mrs. Whitefield),
Jim Gail (Henry Straker), Kaleo Griffith (Jack
Tanner), James Knight (Hector Malone, Jr.),
Dan Kremer (Roebuck Ramsden), Merle
Moores (Miss Susan Ramsden), Mark
Robbins (Hector Malone, Sr.), Lindsay
Crain (Maid). Crew: Sharon Ott (Director),
Hugh Landwehr (Scenic Designer), David
Murin (Costume Designer), Mary Traylor
(Costume Designer’s Assistant), Peter
Maradudin (Lighting Design), Steve Legrand
(Sound Designer), Louis Colaianni (Vocal
Coach), Jennifer Martin (Movement Coach),
Mary Honour (Stage Manager). Single ticket
prices are $10-$45; subject to show time,
seat location, and availability, Kansas City
Repertory Theatre, Spencer Theatre in
the UMKC Performing Arts Center (816)
235-2700, www.KCRep.org (Suitable for
Everyone)
Topeka Stake of The Church of Jesus
Christ of Latter-Day Saints
Saturday’s Warrior by Doug Stewart and
Lex de Azevedo: Oct 28-29: 7pm Fri-Sat.
From a pre-mortal dawn he came, trailing
clouds of glory. Born on the last day of
the world, he’s entered life’s battlefield.
Nearly vanquished, he rises, reaching
for the victor’s crown The rediscovory of
himself and who he really is. This ground
breaking musical from the 70’s, and hit
Mormon film from the 80’s is now back
on the stage. Bringing back the loved
music and story of the Flinder’s family
and a little girl that may never be born.
Directed by Susan Pouliout. Featuring
Hiram Flemming (Mr. Flinders), Jan
Brase (Mrs. Flinders), Jeremy D. Riggs
(Jimmy), Jennifer Maner (Pam), Mitchell
Clark (Benjy), Michael Pouliot (Ernie),
Laura Pouliot (Alice), Jay Carter (Wally
Kessler), Jared Pressgrove (Tod Richards),
April Young (Speciality Dancer), Katlin
Stewart (Speciality Dancer), Janae Rytting
(Speciality Dancer). Crew: Susan Pouliot
(Director), Pat Pouliot (Musical Director),
Cheri Wilson (Dance Choreography),
Jeremy Riggs (Fight Choreographer). $5,
LDS 10th Street Building, 3615 W 10th
St, [email protected] (Intended for
Children)
Jerry’s Girls by by Jerry Herman: Sep 23-Oct
9: 8pm Fri-Sat; 7:30pm Thr; 2:30pm Sun.
Revisit some of your favorite musicals
in this sophisticated revue of songs from
Jerry Herman’s most famous shows. The
LimeStone Pictures & Production*
Logos Theatre Company*
You’re A Good Man Charlie Brown
(Revised): Oct 13-15: 7pm Thr-Sat.
The classic musical comes to life in
the revised version done on Broadway
in 1999. Join us for a day in the life of
Charlie Brown, Snoopy, Lucy, Sally, Linus
and Schroeder. Featuring the classic songs,
“You’re a Good Man Charlie Brown,”
“The Doctor is In,” “Beethoven Day,” and
“Suppertime.” Great for families and kids
The next ESU Theatre production will be
Nunsense by Dan Goggin: Oct 21-29:
8pm Fri-Sat.
Come see Kansas City’s first ALL-MALE
production of Nunsense! No parody or
take-off, this is an honest-to-goodness
production of the Little Sisters of
Hoboken’s efforts to raise money to
“clean out the freezer” and put their
fellow (no pun intended!) sisters to rest
after a horrible dining room incident that
all but wiped out the entire order. Shows
at 8pm each evening and reservations are
strongly recommended. Call 913-3831900 for reservations, directions or more
information. Directed by Therese Riley.
$10 adults, $8 kids under 10 and seniors
over 65, Poke in the Eye Productions, c/o
Corinth Dance Center (913) 383-1900,
[email protected] (Suitable for
Everyone)
and George S. Kaufman’s The Cocoanuts,
featuring the antics of the Marx Brothers
and the Irving standard “Always.” The
Cocoanuts will be presented October 20-23,
2005 in Albert Taylor Hall. Directed by Jim
Bartruff. $4-$15, Albert Taylor Hall, Plumb
Hall (620) 341-5374, www.emporia.edu/
theatre (Suitable for Everyone)
Corinth Dance Center / Poke in the Eye our 32nd annual Homecoming musical.
This year’s production is Irving Berlin
Productions*
The Coterie Theatre*
Watsons Go to Birmingham-1963 by Kevin
Willmott, adapted from the Newbery
Honor book by Christopher Paul Curtis:
Sep 27-Oct 23: 10am Tue-Fri; 2pm SatSun; 7pm Fri; 12am Wed; 12pm Wed-Fri.
Enter the hilarious world of young
Kenny and his family when the Coterie
Theatre presents Christopher Paul Curtis’s
alternately funny and deeply moving
novel. Written and directed by Kevin
Willmott and featuring Queen Bey, Kansas
City’s Ambassador of Jazz, the play blends
the fictional account of a middle-class
African American family with the factual
events of the violent summer of 1963.
Directed by Kevin Willmott. Adult tickets
are $12. Youth/Student/Senior tickets (18
or younger, full-time students, or seniors
60 or over ) are $8. Season tickets are
$7 per person. Group tickets (20 or
more) are $4.50 per person weekdays;
$6 weekends., The Coterie Theatre,
2450 Grand Blvd, Suite 144 (816) 4746552, www.thecoterie.com (Suitable for
Everyone)
Emporia State University Theatre
The Cocoanuts by George S. Kaufman and
Irving Berlin: Oct 20-23: 7:30pm Thr-Sun.
Full Frontal Comedy
October: Who Needs It?: Oct 7-8: 8pm
Fri-Sat.
Full
Frontal
Comedy,
professional
improvisational comedy troupe, plays
short-form games based on audience
suggestions. The troupe also performs
unscripted comedy sketches. Shows are
not intended for children or uptight adults.
Directed by Tina Morrison, Stasha Case,
Dave Martin. Featuring Andy Adams, Joyce
Halford, Dave Martin, Tina Morrison, Jerry
Nevins, Derek Richards, John Robison.
Crew: Bill Case (Light Board Operator),
Karen Rae Hight (Box Office), Reed Uthe
(Video Crew Chief). $10, The Barn Players,
6219 Martway (913) 403-4340, www.full
frontalcomedy.org (Adult Fare)
The Heckfire Show: Oct 14-15: 8pm FriSat.
Full
Frontal
Comedy,
professional
improvisational comedy troupe, plays shortform games based on audience suggestions.
The troupe also performs unscripted
comedy sketches. “The Heckfire” show
is Full Frontal Comedy’s once-a-season
“clean” show! We’re keeping it gosh darn
super duper swell and our mouths squeaky
clean! Directed by Tina Morrison, Stasha
Case, Dave Martin. Featuring Andy Adams,
Tricia Davenport, Joyce Halford, Tina
Morrison, John Robison, Shelly Stewart,
Reed Uthe. Crew: Terri Babbitt (Box Office),
Karen Rae Hight (Video Crew Chief), Dave
Martin (Light Board Operator). $10, The
Barn Players, 6219 Martway (913) 4034340, www.fullfrontalcomedy.org (Suitable
for Everyone)
Grandview High School
Big, The Musical by John Weidman, David
Shire and Richard Maltby, Jr.: Oct 27-29:
7pm Thr-Sat.
*Affiliate Theatre
A spin off of the 1987 hit movie, “Big, The
Musical,” tells the story of Josh Baskin,
a thirteen year old who wants more
than anything to be BIG. After a chance
encounter with a fortune telling machine
at the fair, his wish comes true. Josh soon
realizes that being a grown up isn’t all
its cracked up to be. So, he must make
a decision-to stay big forever or to return
to the life he once knew. Which will he
choose? Directed by Brad Rackers and
Nathan Rudolph. Featuring Alex Herrera
(Josh Baskin), Rachael Rogers (Susan
Lawrence), Kathy Formella (Mrs. Baskin),
Ben Schoffstall (Billy Kopecki), Josh
Blackburn (MacMillan), Megan Herrera
(Miss Watson), John Scofield (Young Josh),
Ron Curtis (Tom), Shawn Nemati (Nick),
Rachel Kunce (Abigail), Sabrina Castro
(Diane), Frankie Shin (Mr. Baskin), Matt
Godwin (Mr. Kopecki), Shadi Nemati
(Mrs. Kopecki), Mina Swaffield (Cynthia
Benson), Hannah Jalkanen (Birnbaum),
Kris Crowl (Paul). Crew: Jenna Snorgrass
(Stage Manager), Angela Middaugh (Set
Design), Janel Henry (Sound Design),
Tyler Nissen (Lighting Design). $5 for
all
productions
Thursday-Saturday,
Grandview High School Auditorium, 2300
High Grove Road (816) 316-5838, www.
csd4.k12.mo.us (Suitable for Everyone)
InPlay*
A Soldier’s Play by Charles Fuller: Oct 1Oct 14: 8pm Thr-Sat; 4pm Sun.
A Soldiers Play is set in Louisiana on
segregated Fort Neal in 1944. The play
deals with Captain Richard Davenports’
investigation of the murder of Tech/
Sergeant Vernon Waters. Directed by
Jacqee Gafford. $15 , $12 students &
seniors $8 groups of 20 or more. Just Off
Broadway, 3051 Central (816) 235-6222
(Adult Fare)
It’s A Girl Thang Productions
Girls! Girls! Girls! (But not naked) by
Licausi and Rameriz: Oct 26: 7:30pm
Wed.
An evening of sketch comedy, stories and
music. Directed by Licausi and Rameriz.
$10, The Pavilion at Longview Mansion,
3361 Southwest Longview Road (816)
686-2022, [email protected]
10 • KCSTAGE
*Affiliate Theatre
Kacico Dance *
Premiere at the Folly Theater: Oct 7-22:
8pm Fri-Sat; 7pm Fri.
Kacico Dance presents its premiere
KC concert at the Folly Theater. New
contemporary dance works by Brown
in collaboration with Steve Morse and
Nathan Woodward, KC composers, and
the LSNHS Crimson Camerata Choir
will be performed along with audience
favorites, “Above Morning,” music by
Philip Glass and “Face,” music by Jesse
Cook.*Saturday’s
concert
includes
“Seventeen,” a new solo to music by
Arvo Part with adult language. Join us
for a pre-performance chat at 7:30pm
in the theater. Directed by Michelle
Diane Brown, Artistic Director. Featuring
Kathryn Alexander, Bobbi Foudree, Marisa
MacKay, Shandi Miller, Yosh Gregory,
Julie DeLancey-Rudolph, Lindsay Spilker.
Crew: Lisa Weinshrott (Lighting Design),
Michael Kimmel (Lighting Design),
Steve Ottmann (Lights/Sound), Alyson
Schacherer (Costume Design, Properties),
Michelle Diane Brown (Choreographer).
$20, $12 Student and Senior, Folly
Theater, 301 W 11th St. (816) 474-4444,
www.kacicodance.org
(Suitable
for
Everyone)
Move It! by Kacico Dance: Oct 7: 7pm
Fri.
A mini performance of contemporary
dance followed by a dance improvisation
workshop featuring Kacico Dance in
collaboration with Kansas Siddhi Yoga of
Blue Springs MO. $15/ person, Kansas
Siddhi Yoga, 1120 S. Main 2nd Fl
(816) 474-4444, www.kacicodance.org
Kansas City Repertory Theatre
“Give ‘em Hell, Harry” by Samuel Gallu:
Oct 7-Nov 6: 8pm Thr-Sat; 7pm Sat-Sun,
Tue-Thr; 3pm Sat; 2pm Sun, Wed.
The Rep brings to life one of the most
important figures in Kansas City history–
Harry S. Truman, the haberdasher who
became president. Come to the Oval
Office as this unpretentious Missourian
copes with the challenges of leading
America. The man who doted on his
daughter, answered to his better half,
and never became too grand to chat with
OCTOBER 2005 • 7
PERFORMANCES
PERFORMANCES
neighbors at his Independence home.
Gary Neal Johnson will portray Truman
in this show to be produced in the H&R
Block City Stage Theatre in Union Station.
Featuring Gary Neal Johnson* (Harry S.
Truman. Tickets available from KC Rep Box
Office 816-235-2700 or toll-free at 888502-2700 or online line at KCRep.org, H
& R Block City Stage, Union Station (816)
460-2020, www.unionstation.org (Suitable
for Everyone)
dazzling ladies from “Mame,” “Hello,
Dolly!” “Mack and Mabel,” “La Cage Aux
Folles,” and “Milk and Honey” will take
the stage by storm. Directed by Terrance
McKerrs, Director; Mary Baker. Fri/Sat
$19-$20 plus tax, Thurs/Sun $17-$18
plus tax, Lawrence Community Theatre,
1501 New Hampshire St. (785) 8437469, theatre.lawrence.com (Suitable for
Everyone)
Man and Superman by George Bernard
Shaw: Sep 23-Oct 16: 8pm Fri-Sat; 7pm
Sun, Tue-Thr; 3pm Sat; 2pm Sun, Wed.
John Tanner, an idealistic and strong-willed
young writer, flees when he discovers that
the beautiful and wealthy Ann Whitefield
has been made his ward, and he deduces
that she is in love with him and planning
marriage. In his effort to escape he tries
all the strategies he can invent, but the
resourceful Ann is not so easily shaken
off and follows in hot and clever pursuit.
Shaw shows us he is a genius of romantic
comedy with the sparkling battle of the
sexes. Directed by Sharon Ott. Featuring
Christine Marie Brown (Violet Robinson),
Ruth Eglsaer (Ann Whitefield), Ian Fraser
(Octavius), Peggy Friesen (Mrs. Whitefield),
Jim Gail (Henry Straker), Kaleo Griffith (Jack
Tanner), James Knight (Hector Malone, Jr.),
Dan Kremer (Roebuck Ramsden), Merle
Moores (Miss Susan Ramsden), Mark
Robbins (Hector Malone, Sr.), Lindsay
Crain (Maid). Crew: Sharon Ott (Director),
Hugh Landwehr (Scenic Designer), David
Murin (Costume Designer), Mary Traylor
(Costume Designer’s Assistant), Peter
Maradudin (Lighting Design), Steve Legrand
(Sound Designer), Louis Colaianni (Vocal
Coach), Jennifer Martin (Movement Coach),
Mary Honour (Stage Manager). Single ticket
prices are $10-$45; subject to show time,
seat location, and availability, Kansas City
Repertory Theatre, Spencer Theatre in
the UMKC Performing Arts Center (816)
235-2700, www.KCRep.org (Suitable for
Everyone)
Topeka Stake of The Church of Jesus
Christ of Latter-Day Saints
Saturday’s Warrior by Doug Stewart and
Lex de Azevedo: Oct 28-29: 7pm Fri-Sat.
From a pre-mortal dawn he came, trailing
clouds of glory. Born on the last day of
the world, he’s entered life’s battlefield.
Nearly vanquished, he rises, reaching
for the victor’s crown The rediscovory of
himself and who he really is. This ground
breaking musical from the 70’s, and hit
Mormon film from the 80’s is now back
on the stage. Bringing back the loved
music and story of the Flinder’s family
and a little girl that may never be born.
Directed by Susan Pouliout. Featuring
Hiram Flemming (Mr. Flinders), Jan
Brase (Mrs. Flinders), Jeremy D. Riggs
(Jimmy), Jennifer Maner (Pam), Mitchell
Clark (Benjy), Michael Pouliot (Ernie),
Laura Pouliot (Alice), Jay Carter (Wally
Kessler), Jared Pressgrove (Tod Richards),
April Young (Speciality Dancer), Katlin
Stewart (Speciality Dancer), Janae Rytting
(Speciality Dancer). Crew: Susan Pouliot
(Director), Pat Pouliot (Musical Director),
Cheri Wilson (Dance Choreography),
Jeremy Riggs (Fight Choreographer). $5,
LDS 10th Street Building, 3615 W 10th
St, [email protected] (Intended for
Children)
Jerry’s Girls by by Jerry Herman: Sep 23-Oct
9: 8pm Fri-Sat; 7:30pm Thr; 2:30pm Sun.
Revisit some of your favorite musicals
in this sophisticated revue of songs from
Jerry Herman’s most famous shows. The
LimeStone Pictures & Production*
Logos Theatre Company*
You’re A Good Man Charlie Brown
(Revised): Oct 13-15: 7pm Thr-Sat.
The classic musical comes to life in
the revised version done on Broadway
in 1999. Join us for a day in the life of
Charlie Brown, Snoopy, Lucy, Sally, Linus
and Schroeder. Featuring the classic songs,
“You’re a Good Man Charlie Brown,”
“The Doctor is In,” “Beethoven Day,” and
“Suppertime.” Great for families and kids
The next ESU Theatre production will be
Nunsense by Dan Goggin: Oct 21-29:
8pm Fri-Sat.
Come see Kansas City’s first ALL-MALE
production of Nunsense! No parody or
take-off, this is an honest-to-goodness
production of the Little Sisters of
Hoboken’s efforts to raise money to
“clean out the freezer” and put their
fellow (no pun intended!) sisters to rest
after a horrible dining room incident that
all but wiped out the entire order. Shows
at 8pm each evening and reservations are
strongly recommended. Call 913-3831900 for reservations, directions or more
information. Directed by Therese Riley.
$10 adults, $8 kids under 10 and seniors
over 65, Poke in the Eye Productions, c/o
Corinth Dance Center (913) 383-1900,
[email protected] (Suitable for
Everyone)
and George S. Kaufman’s The Cocoanuts,
featuring the antics of the Marx Brothers
and the Irving standard “Always.” The
Cocoanuts will be presented October 20-23,
2005 in Albert Taylor Hall. Directed by Jim
Bartruff. $4-$15, Albert Taylor Hall, Plumb
Hall (620) 341-5374, www.emporia.edu/
theatre (Suitable for Everyone)
Corinth Dance Center / Poke in the Eye our 32nd annual Homecoming musical.
This year’s production is Irving Berlin
Productions*
The Coterie Theatre*
Watsons Go to Birmingham-1963 by Kevin
Willmott, adapted from the Newbery
Honor book by Christopher Paul Curtis:
Sep 27-Oct 23: 10am Tue-Fri; 2pm SatSun; 7pm Fri; 12am Wed; 12pm Wed-Fri.
Enter the hilarious world of young
Kenny and his family when the Coterie
Theatre presents Christopher Paul Curtis’s
alternately funny and deeply moving
novel. Written and directed by Kevin
Willmott and featuring Queen Bey, Kansas
City’s Ambassador of Jazz, the play blends
the fictional account of a middle-class
African American family with the factual
events of the violent summer of 1963.
Directed by Kevin Willmott. Adult tickets
are $12. Youth/Student/Senior tickets (18
or younger, full-time students, or seniors
60 or over ) are $8. Season tickets are
$7 per person. Group tickets (20 or
more) are $4.50 per person weekdays;
$6 weekends., The Coterie Theatre,
2450 Grand Blvd, Suite 144 (816) 4746552, www.thecoterie.com (Suitable for
Everyone)
Emporia State University Theatre
The Cocoanuts by George S. Kaufman and
Irving Berlin: Oct 20-23: 7:30pm Thr-Sun.
Full Frontal Comedy
October: Who Needs It?: Oct 7-8: 8pm
Fri-Sat.
Full
Frontal
Comedy,
professional
improvisational comedy troupe, plays
short-form games based on audience
suggestions. The troupe also performs
unscripted comedy sketches. Shows are
not intended for children or uptight adults.
Directed by Tina Morrison, Stasha Case,
Dave Martin. Featuring Andy Adams, Joyce
Halford, Dave Martin, Tina Morrison, Jerry
Nevins, Derek Richards, John Robison.
Crew: Bill Case (Light Board Operator),
Karen Rae Hight (Box Office), Reed Uthe
(Video Crew Chief). $10, The Barn Players,
6219 Martway (913) 403-4340, www.full
frontalcomedy.org (Adult Fare)
The Heckfire Show: Oct 14-15: 8pm FriSat.
Full
Frontal
Comedy,
professional
improvisational comedy troupe, plays shortform games based on audience suggestions.
The troupe also performs unscripted
comedy sketches. “The Heckfire” show
is Full Frontal Comedy’s once-a-season
“clean” show! We’re keeping it gosh darn
super duper swell and our mouths squeaky
clean! Directed by Tina Morrison, Stasha
Case, Dave Martin. Featuring Andy Adams,
Tricia Davenport, Joyce Halford, Tina
Morrison, John Robison, Shelly Stewart,
Reed Uthe. Crew: Terri Babbitt (Box Office),
Karen Rae Hight (Video Crew Chief), Dave
Martin (Light Board Operator). $10, The
Barn Players, 6219 Martway (913) 4034340, www.fullfrontalcomedy.org (Suitable
for Everyone)
Grandview High School
Big, The Musical by John Weidman, David
Shire and Richard Maltby, Jr.: Oct 27-29:
7pm Thr-Sat.
*Affiliate Theatre
A spin off of the 1987 hit movie, “Big, The
Musical,” tells the story of Josh Baskin,
a thirteen year old who wants more
than anything to be BIG. After a chance
encounter with a fortune telling machine
at the fair, his wish comes true. Josh soon
realizes that being a grown up isn’t all
its cracked up to be. So, he must make
a decision-to stay big forever or to return
to the life he once knew. Which will he
choose? Directed by Brad Rackers and
Nathan Rudolph. Featuring Alex Herrera
(Josh Baskin), Rachael Rogers (Susan
Lawrence), Kathy Formella (Mrs. Baskin),
Ben Schoffstall (Billy Kopecki), Josh
Blackburn (MacMillan), Megan Herrera
(Miss Watson), John Scofield (Young Josh),
Ron Curtis (Tom), Shawn Nemati (Nick),
Rachel Kunce (Abigail), Sabrina Castro
(Diane), Frankie Shin (Mr. Baskin), Matt
Godwin (Mr. Kopecki), Shadi Nemati
(Mrs. Kopecki), Mina Swaffield (Cynthia
Benson), Hannah Jalkanen (Birnbaum),
Kris Crowl (Paul). Crew: Jenna Snorgrass
(Stage Manager), Angela Middaugh (Set
Design), Janel Henry (Sound Design),
Tyler Nissen (Lighting Design). $5 for
all
productions
Thursday-Saturday,
Grandview High School Auditorium, 2300
High Grove Road (816) 316-5838, www.
csd4.k12.mo.us (Suitable for Everyone)
InPlay*
A Soldier’s Play by Charles Fuller: Oct 1Oct 14: 8pm Thr-Sat; 4pm Sun.
A Soldiers Play is set in Louisiana on
segregated Fort Neal in 1944. The play
deals with Captain Richard Davenports’
investigation of the murder of Tech/
Sergeant Vernon Waters. Directed by
Jacqee Gafford. $15 , $12 students &
seniors $8 groups of 20 or more. Just Off
Broadway, 3051 Central (816) 235-6222
(Adult Fare)
It’s A Girl Thang Productions
Girls! Girls! Girls! (But not naked) by
Licausi and Rameriz: Oct 26: 7:30pm
Wed.
An evening of sketch comedy, stories and
music. Directed by Licausi and Rameriz.
$10, The Pavilion at Longview Mansion,
3361 Southwest Longview Road (816)
686-2022, [email protected]
6 • KCSTAGE
*Affiliate Theatre
Improv-Abilities
Mr. KC Improv Pageant-Part IV by Tim
Marks: Oct 15: 7:30pm Sat.
Improv-Abilities, a Kansas City professional
comedy troupe uses audience suggestions,
as seen in “Whose Line Is It Anyway?”
The troupe performs all-ages shows in
addition to adults-only performances.
Directed by Tim Marks. $10, The Lucky
Brewgrille, 5401 Johnson Drive (913)
871-6242, www.kcimprov.com (Suitable
for Everyone)
American Heartland Theatre
Buddy... The Buddy Holly Story by Alan
Janes and Rob Bettinson: Oct 28-Jan 1:
8pm Fri-Sat; 2pm Sun.
Buddy... The Buddy Holly Story brings to
life those magical early days of rock ‘n roll
when a skinny kid from Texas burst on
the scene with a new sound and songs
destined to become classics. You’ll hear
them all: “Everyday,” “Peggy Sue,” “That’ll
Be the Day,” “Johnny Be Good,” “Rave
On,” “Oh Boy” and more. Plus, you’ll be
wowed by “guest” appearances from The
Big Bopper and Ritchie Valens in a roofraising finale. $18 to $35.50 depending on
day of performance, American Heartland
Theatre, 2450 Grand Blvd (816) 842-9999,
www. ahtkc.com (Suitable for Everyone)
Rose’s Dilemma by Neil Simon: Sep 9-Oct
23: 8pm Tue-Sat; 2pm Sat-Sun; 1pm Wed;
7pm Sun; 4pm Sat.
Neil Simon’s brand new comedy finds
celebrated writer Rose Stern running
out of money and needing the next “big
thing” fast! When her former lover, literary
lion Walsh McLaren, returns from the
grave to “inhabit” her Hamptons beach
house and help as a ghostwriter, she
leaps at the chance. It’s a manuscript for
merriment and fun. A touching, funny,
unpredictable and romantic frolic from
America’s favorite playwright. Directed by
Sidonie Garrett. Featuring Jennifer Mays
(Arlene), Donna Thomason (Rose), Jim
Korinke (Walsh), Brian Paulette (Gavin).
Crew: Sidonie Garrett (Director), William
J Christie (Stage Manager), Roger Stoddard
(Sound Design), Shane Rowse (Lighting
Design), Mary Traylor (Costume Design),
Del Unruh (Scenic Design), William J
Christie (Properties Design), Gary Mosby
(Scenic Construction), Dennis Coffman
OCTOBER 2005 • 11
PERFORMANCES
(Sound Board Operator), Leah Bigley,
Tim Boeshaar, Diane Bulan, Aaron M
Clark, Cameron Jaques, Chris Jones, Brian
MacLean, Nick Mosher, Lee Saylor. $17 to
$32.50 depending on day of performance,
American Heartland Theatre, 2450 Grand
Blvd (816) 842-9999, www.ahtkc.com
Avila University Theatre Department*
First Lady Suite by Michael John Lachuisa:
Sep 29-Oct 2: 8pm Thr-Sat; 2pm Sun.
This musical comedy looks at the
relationships of some of the most treasured
First Ladies ever to grace the White House.
Call for Ticket Prices, Goppert Theatre at
Avila University, 11901 Wornall Road
(816) 501-3699, www.avila.edu/depart
ments/theatre (Suitable for Everyone)
Belton High School Theatre*
Romeo & Juliet by William Shakespeare:
Oct 27-30: 7pm Thr-Sat; 2pm Sun.
Directed by Joel Short. 6 at the door, 5 with
advance reservation, Belton High Forum
Theatre, 107 W. Pirate Parkway (816) 3482721, [email protected] (Suitable
for Everyone)
Blue Springs City Theatre*
Center Stage Players present “ENCORE”:
Oct 6-9: 7:30pm Thr-Sat; 2pm Sun.
A musical revue of American hits throughout
the Decades. Performed by an elite group of
singers, dancers, and actors ages 4 to 60.
This is a benefit performance for the Blue
Springs City Theatre. For more information
please visit our website at www.bluespri
ngscitytheatre.com Directed by Dwenah
Tomlin. $6 general admission seating for
everyone, Blue Springs Civic Center, 2000
Northwest Ashton Drive (816) 228-0137,
www.bluespringscitytheatre.com (Suitable
for Everyone)
Central Missouri State University*
MacBeth by William Shakespeare: Oct 4-8:
7:30pm Tue-Sat.
A bloody tale of manipulation, revenge,
betrayal and vaulting ambition. Considered
one of Shakespeare’s greatest and darkest
tragedies, MacBeth is a dynamic theatrical
experience, a forceful, violent, and
supernatural examination of the power of
individual morality. Our production will
embrace its universal themes by placing
PERFORMANCES
the action in an urban American city
in 2006. Directed by Richard Herman.
$10 general, $8 faculty and seniors, $6
students, Highlander Theatre, Central
Missouri State University (660) 543-8811,
www.cmsu.edu/theatre (Adult Fare)
CinnamonEye
Ubu Roi by Alfred Jarry and Matt and Ben
by Mindy Kaling and Brenda Withers: Oct
6-8: 8pm Thr-Sat; 2:30pm Sat.
Two Kansas City premieres. Variety calls
Matt and Ben a “pop culture phenomenon”.
Ubu Roi is a French classic by Alfred Jarry
with a new contemporary attack. Matt
and Ben are played by Angela Zieber
and Lindsey Voetsch. Sara Crow directs.
Ubu Roi features Kevin Eib, Jeffrey Jacobs,
Melissa Legg, and Lee Ann Puckhabber.
Jason Vivone directs. Performances are
8pm with a Saturday matinee at 2:30pm.
For more details, call 816-454-4566. Call
for Ticket Prices, Westport Coffee House,
4010 Pennsylvania (816) 454-4566, Jason_
[email protected] (Adult Fare)
ComedyCity*
Kansas City’s Original Comedy Sports:
May 16-Jul 29: 7:30pm Thr-Sat; 10pm FriSat; 5pm Sat.
Competitive improvised humor played
like a sporting event complete with
astro-turf, the National Anthem, referee,
penalties, and fouls. Kansas City’s longest
running comedy show, running nonstop since 1987. It’s family appropriate
humor, suitable for all ages. $13 per show,
ComedyCity, 300 Charlotte (816) 8422744, www.comedycity.cc (Suitable for
Everyone)
Chaos Theatre
Monkeys With Handgrenades: Feb 18-Jul
21: 10pm Fri.
Come join in the fun of “Monkeys With
Hand Grenades” as performers complete
30 sketches in only 60 minutes in a
random order chosen by the audience.
The Pandemonium Players are always
hard at work writing feverishly for the
new upcoming shows. “Monkeys with
Hand Grenades” will as always include 15
brand new plays and free pizza after the
show!!! $13, ComedyCity, 300 Charlotte
(816) 842-2744, www.comedycity.cc
(Adult Fare)
of all ages! Directed by Nathan Jeffrey.
Featuring Kendall Alexander (Linus Van
Pelt), Scott Browne (Schroeder), Robin
Carroll-Dolci (Snoopy), Jeffrey Fellin
(Charlie Brown), Deanna Harmon (Sally
Brown), Betsy Morken (Lucy Van Pelt).
Crew: Letitia R. Harmon (Stage Manager),
Letitia R. Harmon (Assistant Director),
Brendan Shaughnessy (Lighting Design),
Michelle England (Set Design), Michelle
England (Costume Design), Laurie Schwab
(Accompanists), Tim Schwab (Percussion).
$10 for adults, $6.50 for students 21 and
under, Central Church of the Nazarene,
12600 87th St. Parkway (Suitable for
Everyone)
New Theatre Restaurant
Two Can Play by A. J. Carrothers: Aug
31-Nov 6: 12pm Sat-Sun, Tue-Wed; 6pm
Tue-Sun.
Two Can Play, starring Hayley Mills is
a modern, intelligent, romantic comedy
about an estranged married couple who
run into each other at a class reunion.
He wants to rekindle the flame while
she has other ideas. Directed by Richard
Carrothers. Call theatre box office at 913649-7469 for information, New Theatre
Restaurant, 9229 Foster (913) 649-SHOW,
www.newtheatre.com (Adult Fare)
Park University Theatre*
The Laramie Project by Moises Kaufman &
the members of Tectonic Theater Project:
Sep 30-Oct 8: 8pm Fri-Sat.
In October 1998 a 21 year old student at
the University of Wyoming was kidnapped,
severely beaten and left to die, tied to a
fence outside Laramie. His bloody, bruised
and battered body wasn’t discovered until
the next day, and he died several days later.
His name was Matthew Shepard, and was
the victim of this assault because he was
gay. The Laramie Project is a breathtaking
theatrical collage that explores the depths
to which humanity can sink, and the
heights of compassion we are capable of.
Directed by marsha morgan. $8, Jenkin
& Barbara David Theater, Alumni Hall,
Park University Home Campus (816) 5846450, captain.park.edu/theatre (Suitable
for Everyone)
Puppetry Arts Institute
The Velveteen Rabbit: Oct 22: 2pm, 11am
Sat.
Arriving plush and new, the Velveteen
Rabbit yearns for the attention of his
owner, the Boy. The mechanical toys
seem to be the Boy’s favorites and make
fun of the little rabbit. “What is real?” the
Velveteen Rabbit asks his friend, the toy
horse. The answer comes in a powerful
message about love and the transformation
that children understand and cherish.
Katie Adams of Tampa, Florida presents
this poignant, heart-warming classic with
puppets, storytelling, and colorful scenery.
$5 per person regardless of age, Puppetry
Arts Institute, 11025 E. Winner Road (816)
833-9777, www.hazelle.org (Intended for
Children)
Quality Hill Playhouse
New York State of Mind: Sep 9-Oct 9: 3pm
Sat-Sun; 1pm Wed-Thr; 8pm Tue-Sun.
A musical toast to “the city that never
sleeps” with songs from and about the Big
Apple, including music from the New York
cabaret scene Directed by J. Kent Barnhart.
$23 adults; $21 students, seniors, groups,
Quality Hill Playhouse, 303 West 10th
St. (816) 421-1700, www.QualityHillPlay
house.com (Suitable for Everyone)
The Mystery Train
Who’s In First? by Wendy Thompson: Sep
22-Nov 19: 7pm Thr-Sat.
It’s 1914, and the railroad barons have
changed the face of Kansas City. Opening
day for the beautiful Union Station has the
rich, the famous, and the devious caught up
in a train race to be the first to pull out of the
new station. There may be too much riding
on this train, though. A sudden death,
suspicious passengers, and the need to
uncover a murderer may be more important
than “who’s in first”! Directed by Wendy
Thompson. $49-$59, The Mystery Train,
Union Cafe (816) 813-9654 (Adult Fare)
Theatre Atchison, Inc.
Charlotte’s Web by E.B. White; Dramatized
by Joseph Robinette: Oct 7-Oct 8: 7pm Fri;
2pm Sat.
Directed by Julie Anne Dulin. $5 for all
ages-general admission, Theatre Atchison,
Inc., 401 Santa Fe (913) 367-SHOW, www.
theatreatchison.org (Suitable for Everyone)
*Affiliate Theatre
UMKC
The Importance of Being Earnest by Oscar
Wilde: Sep 24-Oct 2: 7:30pm Tue-Sat;
2pm Sun.
Oscar Wilde called his play “a trivial
comedy for serious people.” Noel Coward,
speaking of Earnest in a moment of
unintended but marvelous irony, said, “It
is extraordinary that such a posing artificial
old queen should have written one of the
greatest comedies in the English language!”
The Importance of Being Earnest takes
a seriously funny look at the hypocrisies
of high society and the great importance
of being asked to stay to tea! Directed
by Joseph Price. Adult $12, Seniors $10,
Students $6; call Central Ticket Office for
more information 816-235-6222, Studio
116, 4949 Cherry, www.umkc.edu/theatre
Unicorn Theatre
Unicorn and Coterie
I Am My Own Wife by Doug Wright: Sep
9-Oct 9: 7:30pm Tue; 8pm Wed-Sat; 3pm
Sun.
The Kansas City Star recently described I
Am My Own Wife as, “one of the more
surprising plays to win the Pulitzer. It’s
a one-actor show whose central figure
is Charlotte von Mahlsdorf, a German
transvestite who survived World War II
and the totalitarian state of East Germany.”
Directed by Cynthia Levin. $15-$25,
Unicorn Theatre, 3828 Main Street (816)
531-7529, www.unicorntheatre.org (Adult
Fare)
The Retreat from Moscow by William
Nicholson: Oct 21-Nov 13: 7:30pm Tue;
8pm Wed-Sat; 3pm Sun.
How well do we know the people we
marry? Is love enough to save a family?
In The Retreat from Moscow, William
Nicholson tells the powerful story of a
husband who decides to be truthful in his
marriage, and of the wife and son whose
lives will never be the same again. With
the coiled intensity of Tom Stoppard
and the embracing empathy of Edward
Albee, The Retreat from Moscow shines a
breathtakingly natural light on the fallout
of a shattered marriage. range from $15$25, Unicorn Theatre, 3828 Main Street
(816) 531-7529, www.unicorntheatre.org
(Adult Fare)
12 • KCSTAGE
*Affiliate Theatre
PERFORMANCES
Union Station Kansas City, Inc.
Shine Shows
“The Last Five Years” by Jason Robert
Brown: Sep 29-Oct 1: 8pm Thr-Sat; 2pm
Sat.
A fantastic love story about the last five
years of a marriage. She tells the story from
the end of the relationship, while he tells
it from their first date to the end of their
marriage. A beautiful piece full of passion
and amazing music. A roller coaster ride
for your emotions. $15 Public, $10 Group
(15+), USKC Members, 12 & under,
Theatre for Young America
“Trains Across America” by Danny Cox:
Sep 20-Oct 1: 12pm Thr-Fri; 10am TueFri; 2pm Sat.
All aboard for the return trip! Kansas City
singer/songwriter Danny Cox salutes the
history made by trains in this original
production packed with adventure, drama
and humor. Kids love trains and they’ll
love this musical tribute about how trains
changed America $7.50 Public, $5.50
TYA & USKC Members, $5 groups (15+),
Wildcat Theatre*
Common Ground by Brendon Votipka:
Oct 27: 7pm Thr.
Several singular young people attempt
to communicate and evaluate each other
as they converse in a coffee shop. The
OCTOBER 2005 • 5
kaleidoscopic scenes range from poignant
and nostalgic to heartbreaking and hopefuland most often funny. Directed by Andy
Penn. Featuring Katie Black (Amber), Devin
Burns (Blake), Nathan Giesecke (Caleb),
Skyler Smith (Emma), Kaia Nycklemoe
(Hallie), Kylie Less (Kylie), Olivia Cruz
(Leslie), Mikaila Broyles (Madison), Alex
Milam (Miles), Sam Foster (Noah), Morgan
DeSoignie (Ryann), Matt Zayas (Scott),
Kalee Isbell (Sierra. Adults-$3; Senior
Citizens/ Students-$2; Children (5-11)-$1;
Children (<5)-Free, Chisholm Trail Junior
High School Auditorium, 16700 W 159th
Street (913) 780-7240, apenncst@olathe
schools.com (Suitable for Everyone)
William Jewell College Theatre*
A Raisin in the Sun by Lorraine Hansberry:
Oct 6-Oct 8: 8pm Thr-Sat.
Hansberry’s landmark play about racial
prejudice, set in Chicago’s south side.
(Drama) Directed by Kim B. Harris. $6,
Peters Theater, Brown Hall (816) 415-7590,
[email protected]
(Suitable
for Everyone) R
ARTS AWARDS
ponents of a larger organization,
current members of the Commission or its staff, previous Governor’s
Arts Award or Governor’s Artist
honorees, self-nominations, and
posthumous nominations. Nominations may not be submitted by
current members of the Commission or its staff.
Award recipients will be chosen
from among the nominees by a Selection Panel including members of
the Commission, a representative of
the Governor, and representatives
of various arts disciplines and organizations.
Complete guidelines and a list of
previous awardees may be found
on their website arts.state.ks.us. R
FILM CLIPS
MTV was in Kansas City for about nine
days in August casting and shooting High
School Stories based on an incident that
happened in an area school.
Casting directors and producers of
America’s Next Top Model held auditions
at the downtown Marriott Hotel in Kansas
City, MO seeking contestants for next
season’s show.
Producers for the independent feature A
Ripple in the World were looking for PA’s
and interns for the movie. It will be shot in
the Columbia, MO area.
A Kansas City Location Scout was contacted
by Killer Films in New York looking for
small towns around northeastern Kansas
and information about the Leavenworth
and Lansing prisons. The movie was shot
last spring with Sandra Bullock, Gwyneth
Paltrow, Peter Bogdanovich, Jeff Daniels
and Sigourney Weaver; however, the
director explained they wanted to send a
second unit out to Kansas for additional
footage. Every Word is True (working title)
is set in Garden City, KS and Holcombe,
KS, but lensed in Austin, TX. Scouting took
place in Nortonville, Atchison, Oskaloosa,
McClouth, Kansas City and Tonganoxie,
KS. The biography/drama is also known by
the title Have You Heard?, and is slated for
a 2006 release.
A number of shorts were being made
around the Kansas City area in preparation
for screenings of Independent Filmmakers’
Coalition entries to be shown at the Kansas
International Film Festival in Overland
Park, KS.
Roger Ebert gave “Firecracker” 31⁄2 stars in
his review in the Chicago Sun Times. This
feature was shot in and around Wamego,
KS.
Bill Connelly produced and directed an
informational video for Turning Point in
Kansas City. All crew were from Kansas
City as was the spokesperson.
Family Tree Service is looking for a female
spokesperson. Contact familytreeservice
@sbcglobal.net. Interested talent needs
no experience, however they should be
creative and articulate.
CALLBOARD
Lighting Designer, Kacico Dance
Lighting designer for professional dance
company per/project. Previous experience
in lighting dance in a variety of settings.
Commitment to and completion of each
production. Putting necessary time in
within reason to present company at its best
on stage. Ability to work with technical staff
of various theaters and within budget. Able
to take directions from artistic director.
Costume Designer, Kacico Dance
Costume designer for professional dance
company for 2006 season and beyond. Per
project. Experience in costuming dance.
Ability to collaborate and make necessary
changes within reason based on the needs
of Art Dir and dancers. Be able to work
within a budget and in a timely way. Find
ways to make dancers look their best, be
innovative at times and make the costumes
danceable. Paid per project. Call 816-5784721 or e-mail [email protected]
with interest. An interview will be set
up. Examples of work will be requested.
Michelle Diane Brown, Artistic Director,
8621 S. Buckner Tarsney Rd., Oak Grove,
MO 64075. www.kacicodance.org. Posted
09-07-05
Composer, Kacico Dance
Looking for composer to collaborate
with Kacico Dance on a large scale, full
evening production premiering May
2006. Production is family friendly with a
storyline told through contemporary dance.
Must have a creative collaborative nature.
Must work within music budget. Must have
time to complete large scale composition.
$2000-$3000 with the possibilities of
bonuses for subsequent performances.
ARTS AWARDS
Nominations Requested for
Governor’s Arts Awards
Arts Advocate: A Kansas individual, couple, or organization
dedicated to furthering the cause
The Kansas Arts Commission of an artform or the arts in general
announces the deadline date of through promotional, volunteer,
Tuesday, November 1, 2005, for administrative, legislative, or
submitting Governor’s Arts Awards professional efforts. The nominanominations to the Kansas Arts tion should reflect activity beyond
normal expectations or responsiCommission for review.
bilities if the nominee is an arts
The Governor’s Arts Awards recorganization or an employee of an
ognize outstanding contributions to
arts organization.
the excellence, growth, and support
or availability of the arts in Kansas. Arts Organization: A Kansas pubThe Awards focus attention on the lic, not-for-profit organization that
importance of the arts to the qual- presents or provides arts opportuity of life in Kansas by honoring nities to a community, region, or
those who have made major cre- the state as a whole.
ative achievements or significant
Arts Patron (Individual): A Kansas
contributions to cultural growth or
individual, couple or family whose
development.
fiscal generosity and participation
Any individual currently residing has made a noteworthy contribuin Kansas or any business, organization to the arts in a community,
tion or institution involved in arts region, or the state as a whole.
and cultural activities and located
Arts Patron (Organization): A Kanin Kansas at the time of nominasas public or private organization,
tion is eligible to be nominated. An
business or institution who fiscal
organization should be nominated
generosity has made a noteworthy
by someone in the community it
contribution to the arts in a comserves; not by an official of the ormunity, region or the entire state.
ganization.
Nominations are accepted from
Nominations may be submitted in
Kansas Citizens and organizations.
the following categories:
Nominations may be submitted
Individual Artist: A Kansas artist with or without the knowledge
actively working in the disciplines of the nominee, but the nominaof Choreography, Music Composi- tor should check with colleagues,
tion, Film/Video, Playwriting, Fic- board members, or friends of the
tion, Poetry, Interdisciplinary Art, nominee before initiating a nomiPerforming Arts, Two Dimensional nation in order to reduce the posVisual Art, Three Dimensional sibility of duplication and enable
Art, Folk or Traditional Arts, and consolidation of the best information being submitted to support the
Crafts.
nomination.
Art Educator: A Kansas individual
who has devoted a career to teach- Ineligible for nomination are art
ing the arts in an educational envi- projects, programs or service comronment.
4 • KCSTAGE
OCTOBER 2005 • 13
“The two most beautiful words in the English language are ‘check enclosed.’” ~ Dorothy Parker
FILM FESTIVAL
Feasting on Film in Kansas
he can lure Sky back into his arms
forever. Things go south, and caps
are popped into a major character’s
ass.
scum of society: drug dealers, parking meter cops, politicians, and car
By Kyle Parris • [email protected]
thieves. They carry around a video
Part I: Taking It In
camera to record their deeds, which
is what a bulk of the film is. Moder
I went to the Glenwood Arts
Lindsey plays Daizy Duke, one
plays the role of the flawed cop that
Theatre for the Kansas Internaof G’s young protégés. She’s very
chases them from crime scene to
tional Film Festival (KIFF) opening
funny and sweet in the role. In the
crime scene. 99.9999% of the film
night. I walked down the aisle and
last sequence, she sings a funeral
is absolutely compelling. What
plumped my ass down in the aisle
dirge. She’s got some major game as
keeps it from being perfect is the
seat. The first film of the first night
a singer. And overall, the film is one
fact that it’s not clear whether the
is G, directed by Chris Scott Cherot
of the best of the year. Everything
hero lives or dies at the end. Other
and co-produced by Charles Drew,
about it clicks. The writing, the actthan that, the film works on every
Jr., who stopped into town for the
ing, the directing, the scenery. I relevel: writing, acting, and directscreening. Festival organizer Ben
ally can’t find a flaw. I don’t want
ing. It’s hard hitting stuff. It ain’t
Meade, a great filmmaker in his
to either.
for the squeamish.
own right, went to the front and
kicked everything off. He intro- After the film, Drew and Lindsey
After the film, the Aussie three
duced Drew and young actress went to the front for a Q&A. The
went up for a Q&A. The film is
Jillian Lindsey, who plays a minor film was based on Cherot’s play of
loosely based on real events that
role. They said how much they’ve the same name. It’ll be released next
took place in Melbourne in the late
enjoyed Kansas City all afternoon. week in Baltimore, Charlotte, and
Eighties. The violence is so real that
Then Meade intro’d the film with two other cities in the US. They’d rethe cops were called in to the set on
probably the best review anyone ally like to open it in KC, but it’s not
some occasions. And that’s a real
on the schedule yet. It hasn’t been
could ever give of it.
car ramming into a real house.
on any theaters schedule for a while.
They said they loved KC so far.
“It portrays black culture without
It was shot in ‘02. It’s about freakin’
Especially the BBQ. They gave a
degrading it,” he said. Then the
time. I guess the industry doesn’t
special shout-out to Ollie Gates.
flick started.
know what to do with a smart black
G is a hip-hop version of The Great film that doesn’t degrade the black Part II: The Boring and the Beast
Gatsby. You know, that book you community like Booty Call does.
Saturday Sept. 10, 7pm: So I’m back
tossed aside in 9th grade English
After I make my connections with at the Glenwood Arts Theatre. Toclass. Tre (Andre Royo) heads to
Drew and Lindsey, my friend El- night they’re showing films prethe Hamptons to hang with his
liot Threatt, the All Comedy Radio sented by the Lucid Media Undercousin Sky Hightower (Chenoa
star, walks up to me, telling me that ground Arts Festival, which is part
Maxwell) and her husband, Chip
I ought to stay for the next film, of KIFF. Then ten shorts, eight of
(Blair Underwood). He hears that
Razor Eaters. I heard that it was which were as boring as hell. Two
mysterious rap mogul Summer G
ultra-violent and not for the easily were of note: Soul Circus, about the
(Richard T. Jones) lives down the
offended. Of course I had to see it. only black owned/operated circus,
street. Tre, a writer by trade, goes
Director Shannon Young, lead actor and Hotel Hopscotch, about the hoto G’s party to hook up an interPaul Moder and co-producer Nick tels that cater to crack addicts and
view with him for the magazine
Levy were on hand from Australia hookers.
he works for. Turns out G and
to show their film. And none of
I left that screening early since
Sky were an item back in college.
them wore AC/DC T-shirts!
I was so bored. I went down to
She dumped him for Chip. Chip,
Razor
Eaters
really
is
an
ultra-vioMetcalf South Mall to the Men’s
however, is bangin’ a ho on the
side. G turns the parties up Diddy lent film about a group of vigilantes Wearhouse which is serving as a
style in the Hamptons, all so that who brutalize people they deem the
FILM FESTIVAL
greenroom for the attendees and
filmmakers. At that moment, PETA
type people were serving vegan
meals. See, while watching celluloid splooge of snotty artistes, the
doc Peaceable Kingdom was wrapping up. It details the unethical
treatment of animals by corporate
farmers. Former state Rep. Karen
McCarthy called it “terrifying”.
That’s how I would describe the
vegan food, although the organic
orange juice was good.
to butt naked asses, but I think this
was an inappropriate place and time
to show it.
At 9pm, I went to see the film I
most wanted to see. Derailroaded,
directed by Josh Rubin, is a documentary about Larry “Wild Man”
Fischer. That name rings a bell for
all the geeks like me. We grew up
on Dr. Demento (which can still be
heard on 99.7 KY on Sunday nights),
and one of the songs he played was
Fischer’s My Name Is Larry!, which
he sings a cappella at the top of his
During the feast, a large screened lungs, giving shout outs to each
TV was showing Taylor Mead’s Ass, of his family members (“I’ve got
a 76 minute Warhol film that’s just a brother, his name is David, HI
a straight uncut shot of, well, read DAVID!!). Every Christmas we
the title. I think the only reason heard I’m a Christmas Tree, a duet
they showed it at all is because it he sang with Dr. D himself (“PEOwas a Warhol film. I’m not opposed PLE THROW ME OUT ON NEW
YEAR’S EVE!”).
a lot of people. People like Dr. D,
Bill Mumy (the Lost In Space kid
actor who did Fish Heads as half of
Barnes and Barnes), and one Frank
Zappa.
Zappa immediately signed Fischer
to his Bizarre label and produced
his first album, An Evening With
Wild Man Fischer, a double album.
Everybody who heard his stuff
liked it, but his condition continually alienated everyone. His short
relationship with Zappa came to a
screeching halt when Fischer threw
a bottle at baby Moon Unit’s head.
He became convinced that Dr. D
and Weird Al Yankovic plotted to
kill him, so he wouldn’t do shows
with them anymore.
He started to sing out in front of
a new record store in L.A. called
Rhino Records. He made a song for
The film tells the them called Come To Rhino Records.
harrowing story So they signed him to their record
of his childhood. label. He was the first artist signed
His father died to Rhino, now a multimillion dolwhile he was a lar company. Unfortunately, his
child, his mother paranoia deepened.
brutally
beat
It’s a truly heartbreaking docuhim, and then he
mentary that touched a nerve in
developed parame. My best friend is a paranoid
noia-schizophreschizophrenic. I’ve been through
nia. His mom
the 15 calls a day, listening to him
institutionalized
accuse the FBI of stealing his notehim twice as a
books, watching him get angry at
teen. When he got
strangers for staring at him and
older, his condisaying racial slurs when in fact
tion worsened,
they didn’t do anything at all. His
and the only way
$400 a month meds aren’t taking
he could make
care of everything either. It’s a
any money was
devastating doc for music lovers
by singing songs
and people whose loved ones are
to people on the
schizophrenic.
sidewalk
for
a dime, which
caught the eye of
14 • KCSTAGE
OCTOBER 2005 • 3
“Critics? I love every bone in their heads.” ~ Eugene O’Neill
BROADCASTING
spearheaded an effort to address
the issue, amid denials of bias by
NPR and PBS officials.
Tim Graham, director of Media
Analysis at the right-wing Media
Research Center, harshly criticized
what he called the “explicitly political” nature of CPB. He called it
a “fat, happy establishment” of liberal bias that is “clearly solicitous
of the enemy” in its reporting on
such issues as the regime of Saddam Hussein.
“Americans overwhelmingly see
public broadcasting as an unbiased information source,” Rep.
David Obey (Wis.), the ranking
Democrat on the subcommittee,
said in mid-June. “Perhaps that’s
what the GOP finds so offensive
about it. Republican leaders are
trying to bring every facet of the
federal government under their
control. . . . Now they are trying
to put their ideological stamp on
public broadcasting.”
Public broadcasting has not entirely fulfilled the vision of its
1967 founders. But its scores of
awards for quality programming
and hard-hitting investigative
journalism, and the loyalty of its
viewers, attest to the fact that public broadcasting is an essential part
of our democracy. In a poll last year
by a non-partisan research firm,
Americans ranked PBS the “most
trusted institution” among national
institutions. And the biggest single
source of revenue in 2004 for public
broadcasting entities - 26.1% - was
membership.
FILM CLIPS
Rich Ambler is gearing up to shoot Sorry,
Dad in Kansas City. The documentary
focuses on the father of convicted murderer
Jeffery Dahmer.
FILM FESTIVAL
Part III: Alloy the Conductor
Sunday Sept. 11: On the anniversary of the deaths of 4,000 people, I
Be sure to watch CBS on Oct 9 for The watched an amazing restoration of
Hunt for the BTK Killer which is based on the silent classic, “Phantom of the
the Wichita, KS murders. They are presently Opera,” although it wasn’t comin production with some well-known pletely silent. The Alloy OrchesHollywood stars.
tra provided musical accompaniJeremy Osbern and Chris Blunk had a nice ment live onstage. This is similar
article published about them and their to what was done back in 1925,
movie Air which is currently in production.
except back then they just used eiwww.screenmag.tv/feature.aspx?fid=751
ther a piano or an organ. The AlNeeding Production Designer with film loy used a keyboard, drums, and
experience: RestEZ – feature, Aris Blevins,
chimes – the most rocking chimes
[email protected], Shoots this fall in
Lawrence, Kansas City and Topeka, Paid I’ve ever heard! And it sounded
wonderful. It was thunderous and
position.
very thematic. It really set the tone
If you are an independent filmmaker and
need professional editing and graphics of the film.
with special low rates, contact WIBW-TV in
Topeka, KS. They have just announced the
availability of these services and are eager
to be a part of our projects. Telephone
them at 785-272-6397 extension 605 for
information. R
Compiled by Larry Levenson • llevenson@
kcstage.com
Which reminds me: I should write
about the film. It was OK. The
most amazing thing in it is the
scary-ass make-up on Lon Chaney
wears. That stuff can still scare the
(bleep) out of anyone today. The
worst thing about it was the one
Technicolor sequence. We went
from the black and white tint to the
watercolor looking stuff. It was too
jarring: proof that filmmakers like
to get high. R
RUNNING GAG
Gag Runneth Over
by Ry Kincaid • [email protected]
SPOTLIGHT
Michelle Diane Brown
by Angie Fiedler • [email protected]
I wish to bid a fine adieu to you
‘Running Gag’ readers as I end my
stint at KC Stage. I want to challenge myself by writing in other
ventures. KC Stage has been very
generous to me, letting my mind
go to pieces and then putting them
back together in print.
“My vision and goal in starting off
was to try and bypass that stage of
smallness, if you will, where you are
doing so much of the work for free.”
So states Michelle Diane Brown,
artistic director of Kacico Dance,
at how she was having her dance
company’s inaugural performance
at the Folly Theatre. “If I was to start
Maybe the magazine will be cursed
out as a full-time company, I wanted
with my column again, possibly
to try to bump up the level of qualwhen I can think of new ways to
ity. So putting our first performance
incorporate theatre and humor.
at the Folly was a given - they are
(YOU try to do it every month for
really built for dance, and it is a nice
two-plus years. It’s hard.) For now
place to be.”
I walk away from the columnist’s
computer, after waiting for it to Brown’s been a dancer most of her life,
shut down and being prompted becoming a member of Prairie Wind
that it was okay to shut the com- Dancers (now 940 Dance Company)
puter off.
in Lawrence when she was three. She
went to KU, receiving a Bachelor of
Thanks for reading my stuff for
Arts in Dance. Their dance company
these couple of years. All six of
concerts was where her interest in
you. R
choreography came about.
CORRECTION
When she moved to Kansas City, she
helped found and was artistic director
of the aha! dance theatre for 10 years.
The cover photo of the September After taking a year and a half break,
issue was incorrectly attributed to she formed Kacico (short for Kansas
Angie Fiedler. The photographer City Contemporary). “The emphasis
was actually by Kate Egan. Our is on contemporary dance,” Brown
apologies. R
says. “It’s to push the level of quality
and delve into improv and tap.”
Her inspiration comes from almost
everything. “I have to pick and
choose ideas of inspiration,” Brown
says. “Anything that would be a good
piece of art - from pedestrians crossing the street to a historical choreographer I admire. I grab onto an idea
and play with it in as many different
ways I can to see what it needs to be
as a final dance.”
Contemporary dance is almost a
cause for her, as she feels the dance
world is filled with what she calls
“disingenuous work”. “There’s
a fine line, because you’ve got to
attract audiences and commercial
work is what attracts them. A lot
of times, university programs are
geared in one direction, and when
you get into the real world, there’s
millions of approaches and you have
to be open minded and explore. To
me, the dancer that attracts me more
is that they have to be open minded
where they can go places new. A lot
of modern dance is about exploration
and trying new things. You have to
be able to play and explore.”
Her goal is to have Kansas City
dance be considered on the same
level as New York. “I don’t think
it’s that far away,” Brown says.
Her inspiration and role models
come from the Doug Varone and
Dancers dance company. “I keep
a performance I saw in the back of
my mind as an inspiration to try and
reach that level - level of craft, level
of experience, level of movement,
and level of quality.” She also looks
to the artistic director of 940 Dance
Company, Susan Warden. “She’s
been kind of a mentor for quite a
while for me. She’s someone who
has great respect for dance and what
it is as an art form. She expects a lot
out of me, and has helped push me
find more.”
Brown readily admits she doesn’t
do this alone. She constantly refers
back to the other dance members
of Kacico, and how the company
is dependent on them. “Right from
the audition they impressed me with
an open mind and a willingness to
explore.” R
2 • KCSTAGE
OCTOBER 2005 • 15
“Love is the ultimate expression of the will to live.” ~ Thomas Wolfe
BIG APPLE
Fringing in the Big Apple
or How to Survive Ten Shows in Four
Days in NYC Without Really Trying
by Chris McCoy • [email protected]
This summer, Kansas City hosted its first annual Fringe
Festival, placing us among the elite of American cities
to boast such a cultural resource. Historically, fringe
festivals were created as an avenue for avant garde
artists and playwrights to exhibit their work without
the economic pressures of a full production. However,
one must wonder what is the purpose of the Fringe
when traditional Fringe fare – such as Stomp, Blue
Man Group, Urinetown, and Laurie Anderson – have
become mainstream offerings for commercial theatre.
My experience is that “fringing” allows the discerning
theatre patron an opportunity to view a wide variety
of contemporary American theatre on a low budget.
Fringing is rather like a wine tasting for the theatre
elite: one can sample a multitude of genres, develop
a palate for the nuances and trends, and inevitably
spit out a few of the duds. All this and you don’t have
to take out a second mortgage on your house for the
price of a ticket.
I began my foray into FringeNYC at Fringe Central,
a storefront in Greenwich Village. The barren, environmental atmosphere set the tone for my Fringe
experience: one wall was virtually covered with
posters and postcards advertising each show as tattooed and pierced volunteers stuffed mailings and
processed ticket orders in the wings. For $110, I bought
a Fringe Flex Pass which allowed me to see 10 shows
of my choosing at any of the venues. 10 shows at $10
is quite a deal in any market, but it’s exceptional by
NYC standards. In speaking with the volunteers at
Fringe Central, I learned about the hot-ticket shows,
the ones that are receiving poor audience reception,
and a little about the Fringe experience. The overall
atmosphere is that you’re entering into a private
club. People want to know what shows you’ve seen,
what’s good, what’s not. It’s similar to entering into
a fraternity or the Elk’s club – the Flex pass gives you
benefits and experience that allow one to learn the
art of Fringing:
CALLBOARD
Lesson #1: The “mock musical” is here to stay.
Upon my last few trips to NYC, I began to wonder,
“Does anyone take musical comedies seriously anymore?” The mock musical has emerged as a viable art
form in and of itself. By mock musical, I’m referring
to the genre of performance that uses a traditional
musical structure while parodying the clichés associated with the genre; Urinetown, Batboy, and Forbidden
Broadway are examples. Basically, any show whose
title ends with The Musical! is probably a mock musical. FringeNYC was full of them including Silence! The
Musical, an adaptation of Silence of the Lambs, Fleet
Week: The Musical, The Banger’s Flopera, a contemporary
retelling of Beggar’s Opera, SUV: The Musical!, and
You Again, a musical about cloning. Of this selection,
the only shows I had the opportunity to see were
Banger’s Flopera and Fleet Week. The former proved to
be a tedious example of sophomoric humor - much
like a fraternity kegger with a non-memorable score.
The latter, however, delivered a clever script with
well-written music and exceptional performers. The
lesson learned from these performances is that the
music must be good in order for a mock musical to
work and under no circumstances should the script
include a rap.
Lesson #2: The one person show needs visual aids.
Whether it’s due to the cheap cost at presenting these
shows or the fact that every theatre major feels they
have something interesting to say, one person shows
have staked their claim on the American Theatre.
FringeNYC was full of them; the difference is that
they are turning to visual aides and/or advanced
technical elements to enliven the performance. As a
rule, I typically steer clear of any one-person show
unless that person happens to be Lily Tomlin, Anna
Deveare Smith, or John Leguizamo. However, I was
persuaded into attending Jesus in Montana, a one-man
show about a real-life prophet who believes he is the
harbinger for the second coming of Christ living in
Missoula, Montana. The only redeeming aspect of
this play was the visual humor provided by a slide
show that detailed a twenty-something artist who
leaves his home in order to worship this Montana
Messiah. I learned that most of the one person shows
at the Fringe employed similar technical elements. I
BIG APPLE
Queer, Dykapalooza, or A Lesbian in
have seen the second coming of the the Pantry. Given the current politiCustomer Service and interaction with one person show – and its name is
cal climate, it should come as no
Exhibit guests. Give tours. Assists guests in
“Power Point Presentation.”
surprise that gay marriage is one
learning and facilitates use of interactives
in Science City and KC Rail experience. Lesson #3: Fringe still favors nar- of the hottest topics addressed. The
Requires a High School diploma. Flexible
must-see word on the street when I
rative work.
hours including weekends, evenings and
arrived at Fringe central was a play
holidays required. Six months or more Despite all the developments in
entitled Lightning Field which told
experience in youth services/education.
contemporary performance, the the story of a gay couple and their
Part-Time. Union Station Human Resources
Dept, RE: Exhibit Attendant, 30 W. Fringe still covets narrative work. divorced parents on a vacation to
Pershing Road, Kansas City, MO 64108, or Sure, there was ample supply of Walter De Maria’s environmental
email your résumé to: employment@union dance pieces and the nouveau art display in New Mexico’s desert.
station.org. No phone calls please. Posted vaudevillians, but the crux of Fringe
The play was as electric as its title,
09-02-05
maintains a symbiotic balance with addressing themes such as divorce,
the well-made play. Most of the hot- spousal abuse, infidelity, and the
Director, Children’s Performing Theatre
Director for spring production of Charlotte’s ticket items and the best work I saw sacrifice inherent in the sanctity of
Web and possible future directing positions were narrative, linear works whose marriage. I wouldn’t be surprised
for our 2006-2007 season. Directing success was due to a solid script as to see this play popping up Offchildren ages 5-16 a positive. Prior opposed to virtuosic performances.
Broadway in future seasons.
Directing experience needed. Part-Time,
For example, Ratface by J. Snodgrass
Percentage of profit of show. Email resume
Lesson #5: There are no conservato [email protected] or fax to 816-224- was an interesting piece about a
4197. Attention Sandy Dempsey. Roger teenager whose failed suicide at- tives on the Fringe.
T Sermon Center, Independence, MO tempt brings his family and friends It should come as no surprise that
64050, (816) 228-5491, www.childrens together to help him succeed in the
Fringe artists typically lean to the
performingtheatre.org. Posted 08-29-05 R
act. The work echoed the non-real- left of the political spectrum. Fringistic style of Christopher Durang ing provides an optimal platform
delivering a humorous approach for artists to address contemporary
to a macabre subject. Likewise, my political concerns that have no
favorite piece of the Fringe, God’s prospect of being highlighted on
The challenge to public broadcast- Waiting Room, told a Sartre-esque
FOX news. Shows such as The Miss
ing may be centered on political story of four individuals stuck in
Education of Jenna Bush, Warfield
and public affairs programming, Purgatory for sins they don’t unUSA, and Weddings of Mass Destrucbut all PBS and NPR programming derstand. This piece became the
tion provided political commentary
will suffer if the cuts proposed epitome of my Fringe experience
while infusing the “sorry state of
by the House Appropriations with the perfect balance of form,
the nation” with humor and lightCommittee are forced through. content, and expression – an engagness. I particularly enjoyed WedMy kids learned to enjoy books ing work that took the audience by
dings of Mass Destruction, which
through “Reading Rainbow”, dug surprise.
can only be described as a political
into geography with “Carmen
cabaret with gay themes. Each skit
Sandiego”, and met new friends Lesson #4: To quote The Producers,
delivered an amusing view into
on “Sesame Street” and “Postcards “Make it Gay!”
our contemporary political landfrom Buster”. I’ve never found Gay culture has often been exscape addressing such themes as
classical concerts or Gilbert & Sul- pressed most eloquently and efairport security, gay adoption, gay
livan performances on any other fectively through the theatre and
culture on cable television, sexual
free television channel or radio FringeNYC is no exception, whether
promiscuity, televised political
station. Where will we explore the it be a gay contemporary retelling of
debate, and, of course, gay marmore thoughtful side of life with- Schnitzler’s classic La Ronde retitled
out public broadcasting? R
Seduction, The Day the World Went
Exhibits Attendant, Union Station
BROADCASTING
16 • KCSTAGE
BIG APPLE
riage. A particularly poignant skit
of three minstrels in “pink-face”
literally had me laughing until I
cried. It’s refreshing to see artists
unafraid of political performance,
especially when our president
tries to silence the voices of opposition.
Although I had a great time fringing NYC-style, the biggest lesson
I learned is that the diversity and
vitality of contemporary American
theatre is alive and well in Kansas
City’s theatre scene. Each piece I
saw reminded me of work that I
have seen in our own storefront
theatres, makeshift performance
spaces, and inventive productions. I used to go to New York to
catch the most contemporary and
cutting-edge performance trends.
Upon further reflection, I realize,
everything is “up to date in Kansas
City.”
Chris McCoy is the Manager of Education and Community Programs at
Theater League as well as an independent writer, director, and actor.
OCTOBER 2005 • 1
“What is character but the determination of incident? What is incident but the illustration of character?” ~ Henry James
AUDITIONS
Blue Springs City Theatre
A Christmas Story: Sep 26-27: 7pm MonTue.
A Christmas Story triple-dog dares you to
have a good time. Young Ralphie wants
only one thing for Christmas: An official
Red Ryder BB gun. But how can he get
around his mother’s constant “You’ll
shoot your eye out!”? His brilliant allout campaign twists in and out of other
unforgettable Christmas adventures: the
freezing flagpole, Dad’s leg lamp, visiting
Santa, and the Christmas dinner that got
away. Don’t miss this holiday classic as
it comes to life on our stage. Directed by
Duke Howze. Blue Springs Civic Center,
2000 Northwest Ashton Drive, (816) 2280137, www.bluespringscitytheatre.com
Children’s Performing Theatre
A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens,
adapted by Jason Vivone: Oct 8: 10am Sat
Children ages 5-15. Can come prepared
with a monologue or a poem. Please
bring resume and headshot if you have
them. You may be asked to read from the
script or sing. This can be any song that
the child knows. Auditions will be held at
the Roger T Sermon Center on Oct 8 from
10am to Noon. Will resume from 1-3pm.
The Roger T Sermon center is located
at the corners of Truman and Noland
road in Independence. Directed by Jason
Vivone. Children’s Performing Theatre,
Roger T. Sermon Center, (816) 325-7367,
[email protected]
NOTES
Improv-Abilities (Professional)
Improv-Abilities by Tim Marks: Oct 1:
3pm Sat.
Directed by Tim Marks. Everyone
is welcome to audition! The Lucky
Brewgrille, 5401 Johnson Drive, (913)
871-6242, www.kcimprov.com
The Jewish Community Center
A Chorus Line by J. Kirkwood & N. Dante,
Music by M. Hamlisch, Lyrics by E.
Kleban: Sep 26-27: 7pm Mon-Tue.
Dancers who sing and act. Please
musical theatre selection. All should be
prepared to go through a dance audition.
Callbacks take place September 28,
Wednesday. Performances take place
January 14,15,18,19,21,22. Directed
by Mark Swezey. Jewish Community
Angels in America, part 1 by Tony
Kushner: Sep 26-Sep 27: 7pm Mon-Tue.
Please prepare a monologue, of 2-4
minutes in length, from a published play.
Callbacks will take place September 29,
Thursday, at 7 p.m. Performances take
place March 4,5,8,9,11,12. Directed
by Mark Swezey. Featuring 5 males, 3
females, Actors play multiple roles. Jewish
Community Center of Greater Kansas City/
Centerstage Playhouse, 5801 West 115th
Street, (913) 327-8074, jewishartskc.org
BROADCASTING
Missouri Arts Council Offers
Free Workshops
Public Broadcasting Cuts
The Missouri Arts Council is offering up a free two-part seminar
for teaching artists and educators on using creative drama and
movement to support literacy and
communication arts at all grade
levels. Participants will explore
experientially the vital importance
of learning in all three perceptual
modalities - auditory, visual, and
kinesthetic - and gain valuable
information regarding the role the
arts can play in effective learning
for all students. Participants will
leave with tools and activities to
implement in the classroom immediately, as well as with a variety
of handouts, a bibliography, and
other useful resources.
The Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB), the conduit for governmental support for the Public
Broadcasting Service (PBS) and
National Public Radio (NPR), has
been under fire from several sources
this summer. At the heart of the debate is the fundamental question of
objectivity in journalism.
CONTENTS
by Lillias Freeman-Hogan • lfreeman-hogan@
kcstage.com
In early June, the House Appropriations Committee cut $100 million in
funding, or 25% of their total budget, from the CPB. In addition, the
subcommittee acted to eliminate
within two years all federal money
for CPB. Shortly thereafter, the full
House voted resoundingly to restore
the 2006 funding. The votes for the
2006 funding included all the House
The seminars will help educators Democrats and an impressive 38%
examine methods for active in- of House Republicans.
struction and assessment; receive
sample lesson plans, planning In July, CPB chairman Kenneth
assistance and useful handouts. Tomlinson appointed Patricia HarHomework assignment will be to rison, former co-chairwoman of
implement a lesson in the class- the Republican National Committee, to the position of CPB’s CEO.
room using these strategies.
He is campaigning now for the
The seminar is free and being of- appointment of Cheryl Halpern, a
fered in Columbia on October 5 leading “hard-money” contributor
and 20, Springfield on October 18 to Republican political campaigns,
and 27, and St. Joseph on October to succeed himself when his term
11 and 25. Class size is limited to expires in September. However,
25. Participants must attend both both these decisions are now unsessions. For more information, der investigation by the CPB’s own
contact Deborah Edelman toll free Inspector General.
at (866) 407-4752 or Deborah.Edel
Tomlinson claims he is attempting
[email protected]. R
to “restore balance” in CPB-supported reporting. But how does he
define “balance”? He has stirred debate in recent months by contending
that programs carried by PBS and
NPR favor liberal views. He has
COVER: Michelle Diane Brown, artistic director of Kacico Dance,
which premeires in October. PAGE 3
FEATURES
Fringing in the Big Apple ........................................... 2
Feasting on Film in Kansas ....................................... 4
Public Broadcasting Cuts .......................................... 1
NOTES
MAC Offers Free Workshops ...................................... 1
Nominations for Governor's Arts Awards ................... 5
RUNNING GAG
Gag Runneth Over ..................................................... 3
SPOTLIGHT
Michelle Diane Brown ............................................... 3
STAND INS
Auditions ................................................................ 16
Callboard ................................................................. 5
Film Clips ............................................................... 12
Performances ........................................................... 6
CREW
Managing Editor .................................Richard Buswell
Graphic Design ........................................ Bryan Colley
Subscriber Rep .............................. Tricia Kyler Bowling
Webmaster ............................................ Scott Bowling
Marketing............................................... Angie Fiedler
Lackey ......................................................Diane Bulan
KCSTAGE
Volume 07 • No. 10 • Issue 73 • October 2005
[email protected] • 816-361-2325
PO Box 410492 • Kansas City, MO 64141-0492
Nov. Submission Deadline: Oct 10
www.kcstage.com
© Copyright 2005 by KC Stage. All material contained in this publication is
the property of KC Stage. Any use, duplication, or reproduction of any or
all content of this publication is prohibited except with the express written
permission of KC Stage. KC Stage is a member of the Just Off Broadway
Theatre Association. Printing by CopyMax. R
OCTOBER 2005 • 17
AUDITIONS
HONK! by Anthony Drewe, book by
George Stiles: Sep 26-Sep 27: 7pm MonTue.
This show may be the best kept secret
in musical theatre. It is a Broadway Style
Musical, based on the story of the Ugly
Duckling, (without feathers). It’s message
of love and acceptance is sure to touch
your heart and perhaps your spirit. Please
musical theatre selection and be prepared
to participate in a movement audition. A
special audition for children under 14
will take place in October. Performance
Dates--July 16-23, 2006 Directed by
Mark Swezey. This show has a large cast
of adults and some children that play
numerous roles. We are looking for Actors,
singers and dancers. Jewish Community
Disney’s Beauty and the Beast by Alan
Menken, Lyrics by Howard Ashman and
Tim Rice, Book by Linda Woolverton: Sep
26-Sep 27: 7pm Mon-Tue.
Auditions will be held at the theatre Sep 2627 at 7pm both nights. Those auditioning
are asked to prepare a short song. An
accompanist will be provided. Scripts are
available at the theatre for a 3-day check
out period. A $10 deposit is required and
will be refunded when the script is returned
as agreed. For more information, call the
theatre at 785-843-7469. Directed by Mary
Doveton, Director, Judy Heller, Music
Director. A large cast is needed. Lawrence
Community Theatre, 1501 New Hampshire
St., (785) 843-7469, theatre.lawrence.com
Logos Theatre Company
Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol
adaptation by Nathan Jeffrey: Sep 30-Oct 1:
7pm Fri; 12pm Sat.
The
show
is
performed
in
a
reader’s
theatre
format, so 5-6 actors
play all the roles.
Email nathan@logos
theatre.com for the
audition
readings.
The auditions are
composed
entirely
of readings from
the text. Rehearsals
will be 7-11pm,
Mon, Tue, and Thu
beginning Oct 31.
Performances
are
Dec 2, 16, and 17.
Directed by Nathan
Jeffrey.
Featuring
3 Men 18-60, able
roles.
Experience
with
image-rich
text preferable. 2
Women 18-50, able
roles.
Experience
with image-rich text
preferable.
$50$100 stipends may
be
available--we
will know by the time we cast. Central
Church of the Nazarene (Worship Wing),
12600 87th St. Parkway, (816) 304-0330,
[email protected]
The Mystery Train (Professional)
A Christmas Conundrum: Oct 31-Nov 1:
5pm Mon-Tue.
Interactive murder mystery dinner theater
is holding auditions for their Christmas
show. Seeking two females, one male.
Auditions by appointment only. Prepare
a comic monologue. There will also
be cold readings from the script. Call
816-813-9654 for appointment or more
information. Opening show is Nov 25,
closes Jan 7. There is performance pay.
The Mystery Train, Union Cafe, (816) 8139654, [email protected]
Park University Theatre
2005 Fall One-Act Festival: Oct 3: 6:30pm
Mon.
Black Box Theatre, Park University Home
Campus, Alumni Hall, (816) 584-6450,
captain.park.edu/theatre
TBA Players
Just Say Yes! by Jack and Tom Sharkey:
Oct 8: 1pm Sat.
1-3 pm at Just Off Broadway Theatre, 3051
Central with call backs from 5 to 6 pm.
Come prepared with a comic monologue,
or read cold from the script with a partner.
Small stipend for performing. Directed
by Amanda Hall. Featuring 2 males,
3 females, ages 17 to 50. Color blind.
Blaize Caraway (35-50) Author of selfhelp books, full of energy. Faye Caraway
(17-23) Daughter to Blaize. Irene Joyce
(25-40) Blaize’s irreplaceable assistant.
The one person who can wrangle Blaize.
Nell Eager (24-36) Newly hired, energetic
and determined replacement for Irene.
Requires great comic timing. Arnold
Adderby (23-35) Loser! Never successful
at anything. Lots of physical comedy,
requires great comic timing. Just Off
Broadway, 3051 Central, (816) 444-2459,
tbaplayers.com R
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