“There is nothing that compares to an unexpected round of applause…” JUNE 2024 ISSUE 21 SAGES Theater MEMORY LANE June 1, 2024 Gulfport Community Players AND BABY MAKES SEVEN June 6 - 16, 2024 West Coast Players LOVE/SICK June 7 - 23, 2024 Tarpon Arts I HATE HAMLET June 21 - 30, 2024
Lots of flowers coming up and stages are a bit empty. Schools are out and vacations are happening, so rest up for that busy Fall season later on! Remember, if you are in a show, pass the word to new cast members in the area about sending their emails to receive APPLAUSE to: [email protected]
“Hello everybody! My name’s JUNE! What’s yours?” (Baby June and Her Farmboys) Dunedin Showcase Theater (DST) Venue Actor Studio (VAS) c/o Mike Cote 5124 9th Avenue N 1920 Pinehurst Road St. Petersburg, FL 33710 Dunedin, FL 34698 727-822-6194 727-417-0035 [email protected] [email protected] West Coast Players (WCP) Eight O’Clock Theatre (EOT) 21905 US 19 North Central Park Perf. Arts Ctr. Clearwater, FL 33765 105 Central Park Drive 727-437-2363 Largo, FL 33771 wcplayers.org PO Box 297, Safety Harbor, FL 34695 727-587-6751 SAGES Theater (SAGES) [email protected] c/o Linda Goldman www.eightoclocktheatre.com 727-536-7076 [email protected] Francis Wilson Playhouse (FWP) sagestheater.org 302 Seminole Street Clearwater, FL 33755 Tarpon Springs Performing 727-446-1360 Arts (TA) franciswilsonplayhouse.org 324 Pine Street Cultural Center The Ghostlight Young Company (GYC} 101 S. Pinellas Avenue c/o Rachel Fennell Tarpon Springs, FL 34689 3010 51st Street South 727-942-6605 Gulfport, FL 33707 tarponarts.org (978) 930-3804 www.ghostlightyc.org Richey Suncoast Theatre (RST) 6237 Grand Blvd. Gulfport Community Players (GCP) New Port Richey, FL 34652 1619 49th Street S 727-842-6777 Gulfport, FL 33707 richeysuncoasttheatre.com gulfportcommunityplayers.org St. Petersburg City Theatre (SPCT) 4025 31st Street South St. Petersburg, FL 33712 727-866-2059 spcitytheatre.org “GYPSY” (1959)
AUDITIONS THEATRE: FRANCIS WILSON PLAYHOUSE PLAY/MUSICAL: WONDERFUL TOWN By Joseph A. Fields and Jerome Chodorov, Lyrics by Betty Comden and Adolph Green, and Music by Leonard Bernstein AUDITION DATES: Sunday, June 16th and Monday, June 17th at 7PM, at Francis Wilson Playhouse, 302 Seminole Street, Clearwater, FL DIRECTED BY: Jason Fortner MUSICAL DIRECTOR: Emi Stefanov MORE INFO: Production dates: September 5th to 22nd, 2024 at the Playhouse. Auditioners are requested to bring a 32-bar Audition song with Sheet Music (no a capella or tracks) or can choose to sing from the show score (provided). There will be a dance/movement audition and you MAY be requested to read for a specific role. The comedy and characters are broad, per the style of Golden Age musicals (think Guys and Dolls era). Rehearsals will be held at the Playhouse in July & August. The show is full of wonderful production numbers in a variety of musical styles. Available Roles: Principals - Eileen – Ruth’s sister, a recent arrival from Ohio (LYRIC SOPRANO) Ruth – Eileen’s sister, a recent arrival from Ohio (ALTO) Robert (Bob) Baker – editor at the Manhatter (BARITONE) Robert (Bob) Baker – editor at the Manhatter (BARITONE) Wreck – former college football player (BARITONE) Chick Clark – newspaperman (BARITONE) (doubles in Ensemble) Frank Lippencott – manager of the local drug store (BARITONE) (doubles in Ensemble) Officer Lonigan (John) – neighborhood cop (TENOR)
Wonderful Town (cont’d) Supporting: Tour Guide – shows tourists around Greenwich Village; male (doubles in Ensemble) Mr Appopolous – modern painter; Ruth’s and Eileen’s landlord Helen – Wreck’s girlfriend Mrs. Wade – Helen’s mother First Associate Editor – fellow employee at the Manhatter Second Associate Editor – fellow employee at the Manhatter Violet – “working gal” of the village Speedy Valenti – proprietor of the Village Vortex, lost in his own world of jazz Ensemble: Tourists, Greenwich villagers, New York crowd, Brazilian cadets, Irish cops, “Hepcats” and more!
AUDITIONS THEATRE: SAGES THEATER PLAY/MUSICAL: DENYING GRAVITY AUDITION DATES: AUDITION DATES & LOCATION: ONE DAY ONLY – Sunday, June 23rd 2:00-4:00 PM in the AllPurpose Room (APR) behind Temple B’nai Israel in Clearwater (1685 Belcher Rd – on east side between Belleair Rd & East Bay Dr – turn on Kersey Rd and follow SAGES signs). For more info, call Christine Hamacher at 727-692-0902 or email [email protected] DIRECTED BY: David Middleton (Stage Manager & Stage Hands Needed) MORE INFO: Production dates for this comedy are September 14th at Conmy Center in Dunedin, September 21st at Richey Suncoast Theatre in New Port Richey, September 28th at Catherine A. Hickman Theatre in Gulfport, and October 5th at the Pinellas Park Performing Arts Center. This Play with Purpose is a roller coaster experience with twists and turns between comedy and drama. A minor misstep interrupts a retiree’s busy life, and she finds herself in a “twilight zone” of The Unexpected. 8 Roles – all age 50+. Cold reading audition of following 7 roles: Sherry: Daughter, juggling roles of wife, mother, employee, beleaguered by newdemands due to her mother’s accidental fall. Caitlyn: Younger granddaughter, self-confident personality, very much like Grandma Claire. Megan: Elder granddaughter, sensitive, obedient, and prefers being prepared like her paternal Grandma Mae. Grandma Mae: Practical, pleasantly calm, and thoughtful. Loves to cook. Susan: Peppy physical therapist, tries to correct risks in Claire’s home and activities of daily living. Pat: Male or female, Claire’s best friend, accepts lifestyle changes to accommodate aging. Narrator: Commanding, dramatic personality, introduces scenes, guides action.
AUDITIONS THEATRE: WEST COAST PLAYERS PLAY/MUSICAL: NO SEX PLEASE, WE’RE BRITISH By Alistair Foot and Anthony Marriott AUDITION DATES: June 9th & 10th at 7:00 PM at the theatre. A GPS does not always accurately locate the theater. Visit our website wcplayers.com for directions. Shows 8/23 - 9/8/24. Shows Fridays/Saturdays/Sundays. DIRECTED BY: Jamie Bierchen Synopsis: A young bride who lives above a bank with her husband, who is the assistant manager, innocently sends a mail order off for some Scandinavian glassware. What comes is Scandinavian pornography. The plot revolves around what is to be done with the veritable floods of pornography, photographs, books, films, and eventually girls that threaten to engulf this happy couple. The matter is considerably complicated by the man’s mother, his boss, a visiting bank inspector, a police superintendent, and a muddled friend who does everything wrong in his reluctant efforts to set everything right, all of which works up to a hilarious ending of closed or slamming doors. Characters - Peter Hunter: Branch Manager for National United Bank (20’s-30’s)) Frances Hunter: His wife (20’s-30’s) Brian Runnicles: Head Cashier (20-30’s) Eleanor Hunter: Peter’s mother (40’s-60’s) Leslie Bromhead: District Manager (40’s-60’s) Superintendent Paul: Of the local police force Delivery Person Another Delivery Person Mr. Needham: Bank Inspector Susan (20’s-30’s) Barbara (20’s-30’s) Ages range from 20’s to 60’2s depending on role. Auditions will be reading from the script. British accents are preferred. For more information, please contact the director, Jamie Bierchen, at [email protected]. No performers paid.
AUDITIONS THEATRE: TARPON ARTS PLAY/MUSICAL: LOVE LETTERS By A. R. Gurney AUDITION DATES: Wednesday, June 5 and Thursday, June 6, 2024 at 7:00 PM at Heritage Museum, 100 Beekman Place, Tarpon Springs, FL 34689. ***All actors should arrive by 7:00 PM. Please bring a complete resume and headshot. Please direct any questions to Megan McIntyre at [email protected]. DIRECTED BY: David O’Hara Are you an actor (male or female) who likes to live and work in the moment? Would you like to be featured in what is considered one of the greatest love stories written for the theatre? Would you like to do a play that has minimal rehearsal time? Are you a working actor in the area with a popular following? If you answered yes to all or most of these questions, then Love Letters is a show for you. We are rotating a different pair of actors for each performance and need six pairs total. If you would like to take the risk and be part of this unique approach to the play, then you are what we are looking for. Age range 25 - 75. Story: Andrew Makepeace Ladd III and Melissa Gardner, both born to wealth and position, are childhood friends whose lifelong correspondence begins with birthday party thankyou notes and summer camp postcards. Romantically attached, they continue to exchange letters through the years. Life takes them both in different directions but eventually, she and Andy do become involved in a brief affair, but it is too late for both of them. Andy’s final letter makes it eloquently clear how much they really meant and gave to each other over the years—physically apart but spiritually as close as only true lovers can be. Show Dates/Times: Show Location: Friday, July 19, 2024, 7:00 PM T.S. Cultural Center Saturday, July 20, 2024, 2:00 PM 101 S. Pinellas Ave. Sunday, July 21, 2024, 2:00 PM Tarpon Springs, FL Friday, July 26, 2024, 7:00 PM 34689 Saturday, July 27, 2024, 2:00 PM Sunday, July 28, 2024, 2:00 PM
THEATRE: SAGES THEATER PLAY/MUSICAL: MEMORY LANE By Linda Goldman and Christine Hamacher CAST LIST MORE INFO: Saturdays, June 1, 2024, 2:00 – 3:30, Pinellas Park Performing Arts Center, 4951 78 th Ave N, Pinellas Park. CHARACTER ACTOR CAST Liz Marina Spears Nick Rick Kastel Nora Rosalyn Savel Ralph Allen Coyle Mary Martha Norma Caltagirone Father O’Brien Lee Catalfomo Jane Peggy Whelan Nikki Jane Muhrlin Danny Stan Gurvitz Ken Ray Remillard Anna Joyce Wagner Synopsis: Memory Lane invites you into a heartwarming exploration of life’s challenges through the lens of caregiving for a loved one with memory loss and dementia. As family dynamics are tested and redefined, each scene serves as a powerful reminder that resilience is key as we age. With humor and tenderness, Memory Lane navigates the highs and lows of this journey. The poignant true-to-life stories are intertwined with laughter and tears, sparking meaningful conversations about aging with grace and dignity while celebrating triumphs and inspiring hope that caregivers can find strength in reaching out for help. DIRECTOR: Alan Rosenthal
THEATRE: GULFPORT COMMUNITY PLAYERS PLAY/MUSICAL: AND BABY MAKES SEVEN By Paula Vogel CAST LIST MORE INFO: Production dates June 6 - 16, 2024 at the Catherine Hickman Theatre. DIRECTOR: Daniel Harris Cast includes: Jen Casler Katerine Laczko Phillip Greenwood (newcomer to the area) Synopsis: The show features Jen Casler, Katherine Lazko, and Phillip Greenwood. This is a bizarre, dark, dramedy that contains adult language and subject matter and is intended for mature audiences only. Although it features a lesbian couple and gay father-to-be, it transcends the usual GLBT subject matter and asks what is the real relationship between the three. Tickets $20 online. www.gulfportcommunityplayers.org
THEATRE: TARPON ARTS PLAY/MUSICAL: I HATE HAMLET By Paul Rudnick CAST LIST MORE INFO: June 21-23 and June 28-30. Purchase tickets in person at Tarpon Arts at 100 Beekman Lane, Tarpon Springs, 34689, (727) 942-5605, tarponarts.org CHARACTER ACTOR CAST John Barrymore David Malloy Andrew Rally Asher Carlson Deirdre McDavey Isabelle Lunsway Lillian Troy Norma Caltagirone Felicia Dantine Jennifer De Sane Gary Peter Lefkowitz Jeff Preil Synopsis: Andrew Rally has it all – celebrity; a rich, beautiful girlfriend; a glamorous, devoted agent; the perfect New York apartment; and the chance to play Hamlet in Central Park. There are, however, a couple of glitches in paradise. When Andrew’s agent visits him, she reminisces about her brief romance with John Barrymore many years ago, in Andrew’s apartment. This prompts a seance to summon his ghost. From the moment Barrymore returns, dressed in high Shakespearean garb, Andrew’s life is no longer his own. The laughs are nonstop as Andrew wrestles with his conscience, Barrymore, his sword, and his role as Hamlet in Central Park. Show Dates: June 21 - 23rd, June 28 - 30 Show Times: 6/21/24 7:00 pm 6/22/24 2:00 pm 6/23/24 2:00 pm 6/28/24 7:00 pm 6/29/24 2:00 pm 6/30/24 2:00 pm DIRECTOR: Lisa Malloy STAGE MGR: Nickie Berlage
THEATRE: EIGHT O’CLOCK THEATRE PLAY/MUSICAL: [title of show] By Jeff Bowen and Hunter Bell CAST LIST Performances: August 9 - 18, 2024 at the Central Park Performing Arts Center, Largo Visit www.eightoclocktheatre.com for more information DIRECTOR: James Grenelle MUSICAL DIRECTOR: William Coleman CHARACTER ACTOR CAST Hunter Nathan Daugherty Jeff Jonathan Pouliot Heidi Lisa Prieto Susan Taryn Holzhauer Larry William Coleman It was written in 2004 by Jeff Bowen and Hunter Bell as a last-minute submission for the New York Musical festival. Its plot follows two pals, Jeff and Hunter, as they – stick with me here – write a show about a show that they're writing for the New York Musical festival.
THEATRE: WEST COAST PLAYERS PLAY/MUSICAL: LOVE/SICK By John Cariani CAST LIST Performances: June 7 - 23, 2024. Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 pm and Sundays at 2 pm. There is an additional matinee on Saturday June 8 at 2 pm. DIRECTOR: Brad Brady The cast includes: Makailyn Barry Becky Broadwater Mitchell Broadwater Dawn Bronson Rick Bronson Barbara Carter Kelly DiMauro Tara Fuller Mic Goossen Richard Isaacs Charlie Lane Kelly McGuire Daniel McKay Landon Moore Jaimie Taylor Nick Wilbur Writer John Cariani (author of Almost, Maine) is at it again with LOVE/SICK. The play consists of nine duet scenes about love and loss. Each scene has its own arc and tells the story of a couple at a crossroads in their relationship. Since each relationship is more advanced than the previous relationship, a larger arc emerges and the individual scenes work together to create a satisfying whole that chronicles the lifecycle of a typical relationship from meeting through divorce... And afterward.
Dee Crews June 20th, 2022 2-yr. memorial anniversary Dear Dee, You are two years gone, and we miss you every day. Every opening night Every curtain call Every sound cue Every audition Every favorite song sung. Every flower bouquet Every drum roll These are the moments when we feel you the most. Theatre moments - treasured moments. We are continually thinking of you and know that we will someday see you again. Till then...
SAGES - MEMORY LANE Memory Lane explores life’s unexpected challenges in caring for someone with memory loss and dementia. This poignant collection of true-to-life stories will demonstrate how isolating and misunderstood this disease is and how we can approach the journey with hope and gratitude for the joyful experiences along the way. Laugh at funny moments while savoring tender ones when hardships are met with success in this touching stroll down memory lane. Performances June 1 2024 Directed by Alan Rosenthal sagestheater.org GULFPORT COMMUNITY PLAYERS - AND BABY MAKES SEVEN This is a bizarre, dark, dramedy that contains adult language and subject matter and is intended for mature audiences only. Although it features a lesbian couple and gay father-to-be, it transcends the usual GLBT subject matter and asks what is the real relationship between the three. Performances June 6 - 16, 2024 Directed by Daniel Harris gulfportcommunityplayers.org WEST COAST PLAYERS - LOVE/SICK The play consists of nine duet scenes about love and loss. Each scene has its own arc and tells the story of a couple at a crossroads in their relationship. Since each relationship is more advanced than the previous relationship, a larger arc emerges and the individual scenes work together to create a satisfying whole that chronicles the lifecycle of a typical relationship from meeting through divorce... And afterward. Performances June 7 - 23, 2024 Directed by Brad Brady wcplayers.org TARPON ARTS - I HATE HAMLET Andrew Rally has it all – celebrity; a rich, beautiful girlfriend; a glamorous, devoted agent; the perfect New York apartment; and the chance to play Hamlet in Central Park. There are, however, a couple of glitches in paradise. When Andrew’s agent visits him, she reminisces about her brief romance with John Barrymore many years ago, in Andrew’s apartment. This prompts a seance to summon his ghost. From the moment Barrymore returns, dressed in high Shakespearean garb, Andrew’s life is no longer his own. The laughs are nonstop as Andrew wrestles with his conscience, Barrymore, his sword, and his role as Hamlet in Central Park. Performances June 21 - 30 2024 Directed by Lisa Malloy tarponarts.org ON THE BOARDS!
SHOW REVIEW PLAY/MUSICAL: SWEENEY TODD Golden names on Broadway starred in it - Angela Lansbury, Len Cariou, Dorothy Loudon, George Hearn, Patti LuPone, and Josh Groban. And I realized something… you cannot compare shows to other shows. Let’s start with the tremendous set! Double-deckered on Stage Right and Left. Special effects which are fantastic to the eye. Amazing costumes and props (a lot of meat pies). Real smoke coming out of the bake oven. It was an astonishing thrill for the senses. Everyone has their own spin of the show and EOT spun gold! David Russell portrayed Sweeney Todd with a broodiness and a swagger from his first steps onto the stage. He tells his Tale to Anthony Hope (Kyle Williamson) and the intrigue begins. Mr. Russell keeps his pace through every scene showing only compassion with the youngest of the town and his full vengeance on the ones he knows have wronged him and who have taken his family from him. His “Epiphany” is sung with commanding force of voice and he ends it brilliantly. Mrs. Lovett, played convincingly and raucously by Lauren Butterfield, follows his vengeful song with a delightful comic relief song, “A Little Priest”. The two make light of what kind of occupations they could coin the new meat pies in the upcoming establishment they plan to open. Ms. Butterfield was amazing in her role and it would be beyond anyone to capture this rare find of blended talent in both her character and song. I spoke of Kyle Williamson as Anthony. Handsome and charming, and with a voice that would melt butter, he serenades Mr. Todd’s daughter, Johanna, hoping to talk with her and rescue her. Johanna, rendered by Kayley Jewel, is locked away and sings to the birds in a beautiful operatic voice in “Green Finch and Linnet Bird” of her turmoil in being a prisoner of Judge Turpin. Her perfect tones just lift you above the grime of the city. THEATRE: EIGHT O’CLOCK THEATRE
SWEENEY TODD (cont’d) Judge Turpin is played strikingly menacing by Stu Sanford. With flowing gray hair, he is a despiteful character who originally sent Mr. Todd away and separated him from his wife and child. The Judge plans to keep all men away from Johanna, and intends to marry her himself, ignoring the age difference. Mr. Sanford is pretty creepy and smarmy, but has a great duet with Mr. Russell in “Pretty Women”. Their phenomenal voices mesh effortlessly. A cohort of the Judge is Beadle Bamford presented by Megan Jetter. D.J. Schuett is smashing as Aldolpho Pirelli. Just perfection! His assistant, Tobias Ragg, is played by Griffin Spriggs. His version of “Pirelli’s Miracle Elixir” is bright, lively, and catchy. The Beggar Woman, played by Jenna Jane, proved her versatility in changing from a simple beggar one second, to turning her charm on when asking for sexual favors and then back to begging for coins the next. A stretch of emotions. Great work. Steven Fox plays the role of Mr. Fogg. A spooky character, of course - he runs the Insane Asylum with crazy people, so…. We loved you, Steven! The Ensemble, comprised of Cheyna Alexander, Amber Britner, Kevin Buete, Rei Capote, David W. Collins, Mary Davis, Lauren Dykes, Emma Foroutan, Steven Fox, Sara Heller, Alix Kersey, Sarah Libes, Christian McCormick, D.J. Schuett, Reginald Simmons, Jake Veit, T.J. Venieris, Jenelle Vinachi, and Katie Voorhees is one of the best Ensembles I have come across in a very long time in any show. They were in tune, on time, and blended, while managing simultaneously to keep up with the amazing Amy Fee’s fantabulous choreography!!! This is a show to remember. So let’s remember James Grenelle for his flawless Stage Managing. Debbi Lastinger for unique and beautiful costumes. Set Design by Scott Cooper and Tom Hansen. All who worked backstage, on stage, under stage, any where near the stage, etc. etc. And last, but not least, Mr. Jason Tucker for his dynamite direction and magnificent musical direction. In summation - WE ATTENDED THE TALE - WE’RE GLAD WE DID!
SHOW REVIEW THEATRE: ST. PETE SUNSHINE SENIOR CENTER PLAYERS PLAY/MUSICAL: LOST AT SEA I had a great time, as usual, with the St. Petersburg Sunshine Senior Center Players when they presented their latest comedy, Lost At Sea. The group from Edie’s Diner was stranded on a deserted island with all the fun that goes with it. Their characters were loosely(?) based on a well-known TV sitcom we’re all familiar with, whose lead character is known as “Little Buddy”… Stan Gurvitz served as The Narrator and kept the pace going in the right direction. The Captain was portrayed by handsome and figure-perfect Richard Isaacs. He was terrific in his acting and great with the lip-synching. Scott Hodges was his side-kick, Gopher. Talk about comedy! Mr. Hodges was comedy PLUS! What a HAM! Physicality, pratfalls, and pantomime - all definitely needed for the perfect laugh! Linda Palmer played Josie Patterson to the hilt! Sarge was portrayed by Lettie Mendoza, and we loved her! So commanding. Lola Anderson was rendered by Lori Friedland. Glamour by the mile! Ooh La La! Archie & Karen Stone played by John Segars and Connie Brown, respectively. Performed “stuffed shirt” style, as in “I’m richer than you.” Ima Cheatem was gloriously brought by Geri Eaton. What a nasty part to play! But Geri came through and played it so well! Coming up with the perfect plan to procure the island, Geri was the hero of the day! And kudos on the song, “Cruella DeVil”. Norma Caltagirone (Sue Yew) and Jeff Holstein (Roger Andover) were the cutest couple. And they both crushed the lipsynching on “Two Lost Souls”. The Ensemble of Gina Santamaria, Barbara Casey, Maggie Gouldin, Chris Reynolds, Patricia Price, and Michael House, were splendid with lip-synching, acting, dancing, and overall giving it their all in this wonderful and fun performance! Writer and director David Middleton has done it again! He has managed to come up with interesting plots, meshing it with just the right selection of songs, and selecting the most intriguing cast - all to bring us a fantastic show! We thank all involved for their time, energy, and friendship!
SHOW REVIEW THEATRE: FRANCIS WILSON PLAYHOUSE PLAY/MUSICAL: A LITTLE NIGHT MUSIC A Little Night Music, recently performed at Francis Wilson Playhouse, brought a seldom-produced musical to Pinellas County. Thankfully FWP chose to do so, because what a treat! Beautifully gorgeous voices right from the very top of the show. The members of the Liebeslieder Singers, a quintet shown throughout the show as a quasi Greek Chorus, were outstanding! Every member with their own magnificent serenade, combining to form total harmony. Members included Peter Barlow, Emily Szymanski, Madison Schatz, Ryan Kosinski, and Rachael McCann. Bravo! Mya Simpkins was excellent as Fredrika Armfeldt. She kept by Grandmother’s side and tended to her. Ann Rhody was Madame Armfeldt. Short in her responses, but long in her meaning. Comical and dry, she was hysterical. Her song “Liaisons” was daunting. Matt Kosinski portrayed Henrik Egerman with impending frustration. He was in love with his father’s new wife, but was unable to act on it. Playing Anne Egerman, Emma Tighe was torn between being married to an older man and in love with younger Henrik. Ms. Tighe gave Anne the flighty air of a teenager, and showed us that the marriage was doomed from the start. As the husband, Fredrik Egerman, Rand Smith was doggedly mired in his non-consummated marriage, forced to resort to a prior dalliance, and unaware of what plan to take next. Mr. Smith’s voice was in top form as heard in “Now” and “You Must Meet My Wife”. Opposite him as Desiree Armfeldt, Lisa Reimer, pulled out all stops to perform gloriously as Fredrik’s former paramour. Her “Send In The Clowns” was haunting and beautiful. Asher Carlson and Natalie Ness played Count Carl-Magnus Malcolm & Countess Charlotte Malcolm. Wonderful parts by wonderful actors and singers! Frid (Alex Lodge) and Petra (Nicole Lodge) are sweethearts in the end with Ms. Lodge performing “The Miller’s Son. Others performing were Kristy Pike, Chloe Adair, and Jeff Preil. Thank you to director, Jason Fortner, music director, Emi Stefanov, and stage manager, Colleen Juliano.
How nice! I was able to attend a wedding this weekend - well, a couple of them. And I didn’t even know these individuals. Tarpon Arts presented Always A Bridesmaid and you felt as if you were present at a wedding, complete with the same ladies as the bridesmaids in each one. Aurora Williams played Kari Ames-Bissette, who had wonderfully funny monologues every so often in the main aisle of the theatre about her wedding. Raising a glass of bubbly, you just knew that she was “toasting” all day long, by the sound of her speech. Good character! Laura Carpenter brought us Libby Ruth Ames who seemed like the perfect leveler among the ladies. She was the voice of reason who calmed everyone down when they got a bit crazy. Monette Gentry, played by Melissa Honeycutt, a kinda flashy and trashy Southern belle. The play revolves around her third wedding - to a man she’s only known two weeks! Michelle Wallace portrayed Charlie Collins, honest and vulnerable to a fault. Deedra Wingate, a court judge, played solidly by Erica Vitelli, headstrong and opinionated. She has discovered that her husband’s secretary has been serving him more than just coffee. Speaking of spitfires (was I?), Anne Pedersen, as Sedalia Ellicott is a standout! Letting every syllable stand on its own, each of her words have their own separate meaning and she means business! She commands the stage and you go with her! You cannot be distracted when she’s giving her exclamations - you stand at attention! Great job, Anne! We can easily see how these ladies must have formed a close bond rehearsing this play. The camaraderie is there to be witnessed. Director Jamie Bierchen selected well and directed expertly. Thanks for a great time at the wedding(s)! THEATRE: TARPON ARTS PLAY/MUSICAL: ALWAYS A BRIDESMAID SHOW REVIEW
Not only is there a “play within a play” in Acting Can Be Murder, but there are murders too! During the rehearsal of their play, community theatre actors are surprised to find that Guinevere Black, the lead actress, is missing. She has indeed been murdered by Dolores Gordon, who wanted the lead actress’ part and did the crime to move up into the lead part. Problem is - the body has gone missing. LaBree Hans plays Dolores. She is perfect in this part and never falters in drawing everyone into her little “spell” of murderous weaves. She’ll do anything to keep this part. Tammy Folstad (Janet Duncan) and Barbara Gasper (Beverly Gladstone), Stage Manager and Director, respectively, try desperately to keep the group on the rehearsal path, despite the distraction of murder and a new leading lady. Oscar Fairfax, a local doctor, portrayed by Victor Carr, tries to help with sedatives in water, but that turns into disaster. Susan Dearden as Isabella Watts after taking aforesaid meds, ends up “high as a kite” and turns into human Silly Putty. The handyman, Lloyd Fischer, rendered by Jim Green, is mysterious and has his tool box fall on his foot, hence his limp. Oliva Anderson, given to us by Laura Jackson, is a friend in need. Jenn Saner playing Georgia Styles, a highbrow aristocrat who feels it’s her job to put everyone in their place. Geoffrey Chance brought to us by Roger Steinruck, really hooked the audience with his repetitive line “Is it time yet?” I laughed every time… Howard Weaver, owner of a small antique shop, played by Robert L. Torres, was particularly adept in his part and owned his character at all times. Making her debut at DST was Pamela Torres, portraying Ghost of Guinevere Black. Pretty creepy, let me say. Roxanne Kadiam plays Evanna Biddle, a police officer. She tries her hardest to keep the focus on the murder at hand. Alice Oldacre, staff member who “overhears” something, is played by Karyn Lorenzetti. Good to see you back, Karyn! Many thanks to Director Mike Cote, Stage Mgr. Maureen Keplinger, Mickey Bronson, Brian Keplinger, and the Dunedin Community Center. THEATRE: DUNEDIN SHOWCASE THEATRE PLAY/MUSICAL: ACTING CAN BE MURDER SHOW REVIEW
6/1 SAGES - Production - 2:00 PM - MEMORY LANE 6/5 & 6 TA - Auditions - 7:00 PM - LOVE LETTERS 6/6 - 16 GCP - Production - 2:00 PM & 8:00 PM - AND BABY MAKES SEVEN 6/7 - 23 WCP - Production - 7:30 PM & 2:00 PM - LOVE/SICK 6/9 & 10 WCP - Auditions - 7:00 PM - NO SEX PLEASE, WE’RE BRITISH 6/16 & 17 FWP - Auditions - 7:00 PM - WONDERFUL TOWN 6/21 - 30 TA - Production - 2:00 PM & 7:00 PM - I HATE HAMLET 6/23 SAGES - Auditions - 2:00-4:00 PM - DENYING GRAVITY LOST AT SEA CAST PICTURE ST. PETERSBURG SUNSHINE SENIOR CENTER PLAYERS
LOST AT SEA Stan Gurvitz & Scott Hodges St. Petersburg Sunshine Senior Center Players LOST AT SEA Norma Caltagirone, Jeff Holstein, & Lettie Mendoza St. Petersburg Sunshine Senior Center Players
ALL THAT GLITTERS FUNDRAISER - OCTOBER 19, 2024 THE ANNUAL EIGHT O’CLOCK THEATRE FUNDRAISER! ALL THAT GLITTERS WILL BE A NIGHT SHOWCASING OUR PRODUCTIONS TO COME, WITH DAZZLING OUTFITS, A SPARKLING DINNER, AND SHINY AUCTION ITEMS, ALL INSPIRED BY OLD HOLLYWOOD GLAM. WHITE CHRISTMAS - NOVEMBER 15 - 24, 2024 BASED ON THE BELOVED AND TIMELESS HOLIDAY CLASSIC, THIS MUSICAL HAS BECOME ONE OF THE MOST REQUESTED MUSICALS OF OUR TIME. VETERANS BO B WALLACE AND PHIL DAVIS HAVE A SUCCESSFUL SONG-AND-DANCE ACT AFTER WORLD WAR II. WITH ROMANCE IN MIND, THE TWO FOLLOW A DUO OF BEAUTIFUL SINGING SISTERS EN ROUTE TO THEIR CHRISTMAS SHOW AT A VERMONT LODGE, WHICH JUST HAPPENS TO BE OWNED BYBOB AND PHIL'S FORMER ARMY COMMANDER. WITH A DAZZLING SCORE FEATURING WELL-KNOWN STANDARDS INCLUDING “BLUE SKIES,” “I LOVE A PIANO,” “HOW DEEP IS THE OCEAN” AND THE PERENNIAL TITLE SONG, WHITE CHRISTMAS IS AN UPLIFTING, WHOLESOME MUSICAL THAT WILL DELIGHT FAMILIES OF ALL AGES. SPEND YOUR HOLIDAY WITH THE EOT FAMILY AND ENJOY SOME SURPRISES TO GET YOU IN THE MOOD! GOOD GRIEF!
JOSEPH AND THE AMAZING TECHNICOLOR DREAMCOAT - FEBRUARY 28 - MARCH 9, 2025 ONE OF THE MOST ENDURING SHOWS OF ALL TIME, JOSEPH AND THE AMAZING TECHNICOLOR DREAMCOAT IS A REIMAGINING OF THE BIBLICAL STORY OF JOSEPH, HIS FATHER JACOB, ELEVEN BROTHERS, AND THE COAT OF MANY COLORS. TOLD ENTIRELY THROUGH SONG WITH THE HELP OF A MAIN NARRATOR, THE MUSICAL FOLLOWS PREFERRED SON JOSEPH. AFTER BEING SOLD INTO SLAVERY BY HIS BROTHERS, HE INGRATIATES HIMSELF WITH EGYPTIAN NOBLE POTIPHAR, BUT ENDS UP IN JAIL AFTER REFUSING THE AMOROUS ADVANCES OF POTIPHAR’S WIFE. WHILE IMPRISONED, JOSEPH DISCOVERS HIS ABILITY TO INTERPRET DREAMS, AND HE SOON FINDS HIMSELF IN FRONT OF THE MIGHTY BUT TROUBLED, ELVIS-INSPIRED, PHARAOH. JOSEPH’S SOLUTION TO EGYPT’S FAMINE ELEVATES HIM TO PHARAOH’S RIGHT-HAND MAN AND REUNITES HIM WITH HIS FAMILY. WITH A BOISTEROUS SCORE AND LARGER THAN LIFE CHARACTERS, THIS ENERGETIC MUSICAL WILL HAVE YOU HUMMING ALONG! KINKY BOOTS - MAY 2 - 11, 2025 A BIG-HEARTED MUSICAL EXTRAVAGANZA THAT WON SIX TONYS! WHEN CHARLIE PRICE RELUCTANTLY INHERITS HIS FATHER’S SHOE FACTORY, HE TRIES TO SAVE HIS FAMILY BUSINESS AND FINDS INSPIRATION IN THE FORM OF LOLA, A FABULOUS ENTERTAINER IN NEED OF SOME STURDY STILETTOS. DISCOVER THAT WHEN YOU CHANGE YOUR MIND, YOU CAN CHANGE YOUR WHOLE WORLD! MYSTERY SHOW - AUGUST 8 - 17, 2025 GOOD GRIEF! LICENSING RESTRICTIONS WON’T ALLOW US TO ANNOUNCE JUST YET, BUT YOU’LL WANT TO GET YOUR TICKETS NOW FOR THIS FAMILY-FRIENDLY MUSICAL THAT HAS MORE HEART THAN THE FUNNY PAGES! A CERTAIN BALD-HEADED KID IS AT IT AGAIN AND YOU WON’T WANT TO MISS A MOMENT OF THE FUN. IN FACT, YOU COULD SAY THIS MUSICAL IS NUTS!
Stu Sanford and Kyle Williamson SWEENEY TODD - EIGHT O’CLOCK THEATRE David Russell and Lauren Butterfield SWEENEY TODD - EIGHT O’CLOCK THEATRE D.J. Schuett SWEENEY TODD - EIGHT O’CLOCK THEATRE
Colleen Juliano, June 2nd Dale Badway, June 2nd Janice Creneti, June 4th Tom Bronson, June 5th Brad Brady, June 6th Patricia Hughes, June 7th Rebecca Cantrell, June 8th Helen Crowley, June 8th Ross Maxon, June 11th Jason Tucker, June 12th Karen Johnston, June 12th John Benincasa, June 12th Shaheen Mamawala, June 13th Michael Cote, June 13th Travis Moore, June 15th Mary Clark, June 17th Karl Meinecke, June 20th T.J. Gill, June 21st Morgan Maxon, June 22nd Susan Arnold, June 23rd Jessica Burchfield, June 23rd Sadra Bostick, June 24th Rachel Krass, June 26th Christina Capehart, June 28th T.J. Howsare, June 28th Brandy Chapman, June 29th Barbara Estok, June 30th Anita Travaglino, June 30th