Pioneer Valley Theatre News January 12, 2017

Pioneer Valley Theatre Newsletter View this email in your browser January 12-February 1, 2017 Did you know that the Pioneer Valley Theatre News has a Facebook page? You can find lots of events and more information there!  The next issue will include events through February 8. Submit upcoming events via the link below or by emailing me before Tuesday at midnight. Any questions, comments or feedback? Email me at pioneervalleytheatre@gmail.com Submit Your Theatre Event THIS WEEK IN THEATRE NEWS: from Howlround The Biggest Arts Education Phenomenon in the World—But Not in Theatre, Yet by Eric Booth From the article:  I am a theatre person who found my way into decades of work in the orchestral world. My passion for “teaching artistry” led me to help develop the emerging field in the late ’70s and 80s. I developed the teaching artist program at Juilliard, which led to a long parade of projects including: consulting with seven of the ten largest orchestras in the US; and work with many conservatories, school music programs, cities, and states on arts education policies. My artistic soul, however, still belongs to theatre, and the classical music world still seems like a strange foreign culture to me. Have you read an interesting article about theatre recently? Send it to me! pioneervalleytheatre@gmail.com PERFORMANCES Amherst Leisure Services Community Theatre presents Shrek The Musical January 12-15 and 19-22, 2017 Bowker Auditorium at UMASS Director:  Kimberly Overtree Music Director:  Cindy Naughton Choreographer: Mary Ann Holmes TICKETS ON SALE NOW! (413) 259-3065 or www.alsct.org The Majestic Theater presents AMADEUS January 12-February 12 West Springfield The Majestic Theater continues the celebration of its 20th season of live theater with the presentation of “Amadeus,” the award-winning drama that profiles the lives of composers Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and Antonio Salieri.  Having been presented as both a stage play and a successful film, “Amadeus” reveals the bitter jealousy exhibited by Salieri, who spent years of his life coveting the success and genius with which Mozart was gifted. Masquerading as an ally, Salieri does his utmost to destroy Mozart's reputation and success. Written by Peter Shaffer, “Amadeus” won the 1981 Tony Award for Best Play, and was adapted by Shaffer to beome an Academy Award-winning movie in 1984. Cast members include Keith Langsdale (Antonio Salieri), Stephen Petit (Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart), Kaytlyn Vendeloecht (Constanze Weber), Jack Grigoli (Venitcello 1), Rich Vaden (Venticello 2), Stuart Gamble (Emperor Joseph II), James Emery (Baron Von Swieten), George Lombardo (Count Orsini-Rosenberg) and William Wieliczka (Count Von Strack). J. T. Waite will direct the play. Set design is by Greg Trochlil, and Dan Rist is lighting designer. Laura Gomez is stage manager, and production manager is Stephen Petit. Danny Eaton is the producing director. Ticket for the play range from $25-$33 and are available by calling or visiting the box office during its hours of operation, which are Monday through Friday 10am – 5pm and Saturday 10am – 1pm. More information online.   Eggtooth Productions presents AFTER ORLANDO January 13, 2017 at 7:30 pm Jack's Studio, 9 Mill Street, Greenfield, MA tickets are free and donations accepted An evening or short plays by some of America’s finest playwrights, inviting audiences and artists to come together and offer solace to those who have felt marginalized in recent months.   On June 12, 2016, 49 people lost their lives in a shooting at Pulse, a gay nightclub in Orlando, FL. Theatre companies NoPassport Productions and Missing Bolts Productions commissioned over 70 short plays from playwrights in the United States, Canada, the UK, Australia and Uganda in response to this event which had a traumatic effect on so many individuals and communities.    Joshua Platt the director of the piece, had this to say, “AFTER ORLANDO is more than a memorial in time. It is about where we are now. The forces of isolation and oppression which fall on LGBTQ+ people, on people of color and on Muslims--how are they to be combatted? Desire, love, laughter, truth-telling...theater has an important role to play in keeping us brave and keeping us together.”   On January 13, 2017 Linda McInerney’s Eggtooth Productions will present a selection from these plays featuring a diverse and versatile cast of local actors playing multiple roles, directed by Josh Platt. The actors include: Athan Vennell, Sloan Tomlinson, Kent Alexander, Rachael Katz, Tim Fisk, Toby Vera Bercovici, Trenda Loftin and Julissa Rodriguez, and Jeannine Haas.  The performance will take place at Jack Golden’s Studio at 9 Mill Street in Greenfield, MA at 7:30 pm. It is a free event though donations will be welcomed.   Said McInerney, “We need to keep the idea alive of what our LGBT community has at stake in the wake of this new president. Also, 70 of our best playwrights have taken up the mantel by writing plays for AFTER ORLANDO and it is being presented over forty different times in different locations nationally. Our offering is part of an important movement. If ever there was a time to stand up it's now.” Happier Valley Comedy Show Monthly Show  Saturday, January 14 at 8pm - doors open at 7:30pm  Location: 121 Club, Eastworks, 116 Pleasant Street, Easthampton MA. 01027 Happily Sponsored by Strong & Healthy Smiles by Dr. Sue Keller in Florence. WE'RE AT THE 121 CLUB (formerly Apollo Grill) AT EASTWORKS IN EASTHAMPTON FOR THIS SHOW!!! ***PRICING DISCOUNT! $10 if you buy your tickets in advance online!*** This month's special guest stars are two of Boston's finest improvisers, Misch Whitaker and Pat Parhiala who perform their white-hot show "Pat & Misch Break Up," a fully improvised musical based on one audience member's best break up story. With musical accompaniment by Shenelle Williams. Musical! Comedy! Star-crossed lovers! Misch & Pat are must-see show! The Ha-Ha's perform their popular show "Shrink: Where Freud Meets Funny" in which they create a kooky cast of characters in two weeks of improvised therapy sessions. Inspired by audience suggestions, you never know what you'll see on this therapist's couch. One thing we do know, it'll be hilarious. Tickets: -at the door: $13 (cash or check only) -online: $10 (until 5pm on the day of the show) -student discount: $7 (with coupon code for current students only) Audiences can look forward to a full evening of comic entertainment rated PG-13 in this handicapped-accessible space. For more information about The Happier Valley Comedy Show, visit the show website or email. All-new shows every month! The Happier Valley Comedy Show are on the SECOND SATURDAY of every month 8:00 - 10:00pm at the 121 Club at Eastworks in Easthampton BUY YOUR TICKETS NOW AND SAVE $3 Happier Valley Comedy presents More Improv, More Better Jam & Showcase Saturday, January 14th at 10-11pm.  121 Club, Eastworks, 116 Pleasant Street, Easthampton MA 01027) (Directly following the Happier Valley Comedy Show.) Open improv jam for everyone and anyone to play and watch improv games lead by Happier Valley Comedy friends. Plus a showcase set featuring an up-and-coming improv team.  Free show (one drink minimum.) For more info visit the website or Facebook or email info@happiervalley.com. TheatreTruck, Eggtooth Productions, and Shea Theater Arts Center offer the opportunity to be part of a national movement to create sanctuary for all. Please bring a light, and join us! ON JANUARY 19TH, 2017 AT 5:30PM IN EACH TIME ZONE ACROSS THE COUNTRY WE WILL GATHER OUTSIDE OF THEATERS TO CREATE A "LIGHT" FOR DARK TIMES AHEAD, AND TO MAKE, OR RENEW, A PLEDGE TO STAND FOR AND PROTECT THE VALUES OF INCLUSION, PARTICIPATION, AND COMPASSION FOR EVERYONE, REGARDLESS OF RACE, CLASS, RELIGION, COUNTRY OF ORIGIN, IMMIGRATION STATUS, (DIS)ABILITY, GENDER IDENTITY, OR SEXUAL ORIENTATION. On January 19, 2017 at 5:30 p.m. in each time zone across the country, members of the theater community - from Broadway to regional theaters to high schools and colleges and community theaters - will come together to launch The Ghostlight Project. Gathering outside of theaters on the eve of the Presidential Inauguration, people will join in a collective, simultaneous action, together creating “light” for challenging times ahead. Inspired by the tradition of leaving a "ghost light" on in a darkened theater, artists and communities will make or renew a pledge to stand for and protect the values of inclusion, participation, and compassion for everyone--regardless of race, class, religion, country of origin, immigration status, (dis)ability, gender identity, or sexual orientation.  January 19th is a moment of gathering within a larger resistance to intolerance at all levels. We aim to create brave spaces that will serve as lights in the coming years. We aim to activate a network of people across the country working to support vulnerable communities. This is not a substitution for protests or direct action, but rather a pledge for continued vigilance and increased advocacy. https://theghostlightproject.com/ #AllAreWelcome Silverthorne Theater Company will join with other area theater organizations in the Upper Valley and southern Vermont to participate in The Ghostlight Project – Upper Valley at 5:30 pm on Thursday, Jan 19, outside The Arts Block in downtown Greenfield. This is a nationwide effort with theaters and arts organizations all over the country planning actions.   Participants are invited to gather outside of Silverthorne’s new performance space, The Arts Block, on Main Street at Court Square in Greenfield to create a 'light for dark times ahead, and to renew our pledge to stand for and protect the values of inclusion, participation, and compassion for everyone regardless of race, class, age, religion, country of origin, immigration status, (dis)ability, gender identity, or sexual orientation.'   All are invited to add their voices to this highly significant event. The full description is at http://www.silverthornetheater.org/news-announcements/.  Anyone planning to attend should note the following: Bring a light source that is off on arrival (flashlight, lantern, cell phone! whatever!) Open mic – anyone may bring an appropriate speech/monologue/piece of dialogue/song - (3 minute limit). Bring friends and family - this event needs to reflect the deep concerns we have about the negative direction that we see our civic and cultural communities moving and a large turnout will be evidence of our commitment Dress warmly Details about the nationwide effort at https://theghostlightproject.com/   This event is FREE and OPEN TO ALL! TheatreTruck Meet and Greet Directlly following a community vigil (part of the nationwide Ghostlight Project event) outside the Shea Theater Arts Center on January 19th at 5:30pm, come inside the lobby bar to talk, meet new collaborators and share space with old friends. We kick off our 2017 Meet N' Greet series with a day of Action for theatre makers and allies/supporters. #BeaLight #AllareWelcome Facebook event here. Happier FAMILY Comedy Show Saturday, January 21st at 4pm.   Located at Eastworks' Community Room (Suite 160) 116 Pleasant Street, Easthampton. Monthly improv comedy show for the whole family. Best for 5-12 year olds and their adults.  Tickets at the door: $10/Adults, $5/Kids (3 yrs and under free), $30/Family Max. Purchase tickets online or at the door (*cash or check only at the door please*) For more info visit www.happiervalley.com. Facebook event here. Happily Sponsored by Eastworks, Easthampton and River Valley Co-op in Northampton. Panopera presents CARMEN Friday, January 27 at at 7:30 PM and Sunday, January 29 at 2:00 PM Academy of Music Theatre, Northampton Following the success of last year’s La Boheme, Panopera presents perhaps the most famous opera ever: Georges Bizet’s Carmen. Sam Rush of New Century Theatre directs the cast of regional professional singers in this classic tragedy of obsessive love, accompanied by a full orchestra, conducted by E. Wayne Abercrombie. More information online. Get a discount on advance tickets purchased before January 19. Tickets available online or by calling the Academy of Music at 413-584-9032 x105. AUDITIONS & OPPORTUNITIES CALL FOR AUDITIONS Black Cat Theater is preparing for their Spring production of THE 25th ANNUAL PUTNAM COUNTY SPELLING BEE directed by Joey Grabowski with musical direction by Greg Williams. Auditions for this show will be held on Thursday, January 12th at 6:00 in the Auditorium at South Hadley High School. This show is rated PG-13 so parental discretion for auditionees is advised. Spelling Bee rehearsals will begin on Thursday, January 19th and will continue on Monday and Thursday evenings. The show is scheduled to be produced at South Hadley High School March 30th – April 2nd  All roles are open. For more information go to www.facebook.com/BlackCatTheater. Interested candidates should bring with them a short biographical sketch (headshot optional) and be prepared to perform a short musical piece. We will have a CD player and a-capella is also an option. There will also be readings from the script. If unavailable to be seen in person please email blackcattheater@gmail.com or leave a message at 413-563-6023. Arena Civic Theatre proudly announces our Broadway bus trip to see the new musical everyone is talking about - DEAR EVAN HANSEN. Saturday, March 25th 2017 Bus leaves Wildwood Elementary School - 71 Strong Street in Amherst at 7:00 AM (please arrive at 6:45 in the side parking lot) and will drop guests off at the Music Box Theatre at approximately 11:00 AM. Trip includes one spot on the chartered Peter Pan coach and one mezzanine ticket to the 2:00 performance of Dear Evan Hansen. Bus leaves the city (from the theater) at 6:00 PM and will make a travel plaza dinner stop on the way home. Arrival back at Wildwood between 10 and 11:00 PM. Tickets available here. More information on Facebook. **ANYONE UNDER 18 MUST BE ACCOMPANIED BY AN ADULT** **NO REFUNDS OR EXCHANGES** CALL FOR DIRECTORS Silverthorne Theater Company is seeking experienced directors for its 2017 Season shows. Paid position. All performances at The Arts Block in downtown Greenfield. To set up an interview, contact Lucinda Kidder at 413-768-7514 or write to silverthornetheater@gmail.com. Auditions will be held March 10-12; show dates STUPID FUCKING BIRD, by Aaron Posner June 22 - July 1; CHAPATTI, by Christopher O'Reilly July 20-29; GREATER TUNA, by Ed Howard, Joe Sears and Jaston Williams October 5-14. Once more proving our versatility, Silverthorne opens the season with a musical! Full of edgy passion and poignant humor, Jacques Brel is Alive and Well and Living in Paris will take full advantage of our new performance space. It will be April in Paris when the actor/singers create a sophisticated cabaret atmosphere as performers and as servers with attitude.  Jacques Brel runs April 20-22, 27-29.   The Company’s second season production goes out on a limb (literally). Stupid F***ing Bird is rightly described by playwright Aaron Posner as “a sort of adaptation of Chekhov’s The Sea Gull.” The familiar characters are there in all their tortured glory, even if the names are slightly modified. The themes of thwarted ambition and family conflict are played out in this thoroughly contemporary and achingly funny piece that leaves no doubt about the comedic genius of both Posner and his Russian prototype. June 22-24, 29 - July 1.   In the third show of the season, Chapatti, the only thing preventing Dan from committing suicide is his dog, Chapatti. His faithful companion cannot fill the hole in his life caused by the death of his life-long companion.  In this little-known piece full of humor and compassion, playwright Christopher O’Reilly introduces Betty, a similarly lost soul, with unpredictable consequences. July 20-22, 27-29. The season wraps with an all-time comic favorite, Greater Tuna, by Ed Howard, Joe Sears and Jaston Williams. Silverthorne’s production re-visits this send-up of small town life in rural Texas to look at what makes us so incurably and endlessly obsessed with each other’s personal foibles.  GT is a truly hilarious antidote for depression in these complicated times. October 5-7, 12-14. Interviews for directors are currently underway, and open season auditions will be held in March. Audition information to come in February! Hampshire Shakespeare Company is seeking a Production Manager & a Technical Director for the 2017 summer season of “Shakespeare Under the Stars,” which will include productions of “Hamlet” and “Rosencrantz & Guildenstern Are Dead” in repertory. The positions start immediately and run through late-August. Candidates for the following positions should have reliable transportation, leadership and conflict management experience, excellent communication skills, and enjoy working with young people under the age of 18. The ideal candidates will be excited to grow and develop with a small local theater committed to providing valuable experiences for those beginning their careers. Production Manager The Production Manager plays a critical role in our Production Team and is responsible for managing the logistics of the rehearsal and performance process. Responsibilities include: Creation and management of the season calendar, including rehearsals, technical schedule, and special events Participation in season preparation and strike Formulating timeline and tasks for technical staff Acting as point-person for communication to the artistic company Coordinating rehearsal space Scheduling and facilitating production meetings Attending Hampshire Shakespeare Board meetings to provide updates on the season Compiling and management of production budgets Mentorship and supervision of production assistants Providing support to the stage managers and directors, including mediating conflict within the season at the request of each  production’s stage manager Addressing actor and crew comfort and needs during rehearsals and technical production Maintaining communication with the Renaissance Center staff Working with the producer, stage manager, and front of house manager to build the tech and show pattern schedule The ideal candidate will have be an experienced and creative team player dedicated to creating a sense of community in an organization that includes staff and volunteers. Ability to quickly problem-solve is a must.  The ability to deal with stressful situations with grace, humor, and tact is very helpful.   Technical Director The Technical Director will help support our proud artistic tradition of outdoor performances, which emphasizes the relationship between actor and audience. Responsibilities include: Overseeing season setup and strike, including but not limited to construction and work with scenic designer, and facilitating light hang and focus schedule Enforcing safety procedures and training production staff on setup and breakdown of rehearsal space Creating and procuring small scenic elements and properties, as well as maintaining, organizing, and storing all pre-existing scenic elements Presence at tech rehearsals to facilitate the execution of the artistic vision of the production Presence at the season’s performances to maintain crew’s performance pattern and facilitate all technical elements during the run of the show Work directly with facilities managers when applicable Attending all on-site special events Attending all production meetings Mentorship and supervision of our production assistants. The ideal candidate will have lighting, sound, and carpentry experience, leadership experience as well as reliable transportation. We are looking for a collaborative and creative team-player who likes problem-solving.   Salary for each position: $2,500 for the season   Interested applicants should send a resume and cover letter in PDF format to Jessica Thompson, Producer,  at  hampshire.shakespeare.company@gmail.com. Hampshire Shakespeare Company is seeking a Dramaturg & a Publicist for the 2017 summer season of “Shakespeare Under the Stars,” which will include productions of “Hamlet” and “Rosencrantz & Guildenstern Are Dead” in repertory. The positions start immediately and run through late-August. Publicist Hampshire Shakespeare Company is seeking a Publicist for the 2017 summer season of “Shakespeare Under the Stars,” Responsibilities include: Promoting and selling tickets for the season Writing, designing, and producing advertisements Forging partnerships with potential advertisers Creation of Posters, including sourcing or creating graphic elements Publicizing the productions and the company through venues including but not limited to: Fliers Posters Websites Newspapers Newsletters Social Media The ideal candidate will have be an experienced and creative team player dedicated to creating a sense of community in an organization that includes staff and volunteers. Ability to quickly problem-solve is a must.  Candidates with an understanding of and connections to the local community are strongly preferred. Candidates should have strong writing skills and experience with printed and online publicity. Graphic design skills are prefered. The ideal candidate will be excited to grow and develop with a small local theater committed to providing valuable experiences for those beginning their careers. Salary: $900 for the Season Dramaturg Hampshire Shakespeare Company is seeking a Dramaturg for the 2017 summer season of “Shakespeare Under the Stars.” The dramaturg will play a critical role in developing the themes and context of our season’s productions. Responsibilities to include: Meet and offer analysis, ideas, and notes with regard to text and staging to the director and artistic staff. Support artistic staff in the creation, tracking, and distribution of script and script changes Provide research materials as needed and agreed upon for distribution to directors, cast and creative team Author dramaturgical notes to be printed in the playbill Contribute copy relating to the Play for publicity and/or education materials, as requested and in collaboration with the artistic team. Lead pre- or post-show discussions during the run of performances, as requested by the directors Act as a creative and thematic liaison between the creative teams for each production The successful candidate will  be prepared to collaborate with a team of directors and technical professionals to bring a unified vision to Hampshire Shakespeare Company’s first repertory season. The successful candidate will play a key and critical role in communications between the creative teams for each production. Candidates should have reliable transportation, research experience, excellent communication skills, and enjoy working with young people under the age of 18. The ideal candidate will be excited to grow and develop with a small local theater committed to providing valuable experiences for those beginning their careers. Salary: $600 for the Season Interested applicants for either postion should send a resume and cover letter in PDF format to Jessica Thompson, Producer at  hampshire.shakespeare.company@gmail.com. Valley Light Opera Director Call for 2017 VLO production: My Fair Lady Valley Light Opera is seeking nominations and applications for artistic/stage director for our 43rd annual production: Lerner and Lowe's My Fair Lady to be performed November 2, 3, 4, 9, 10, and 11, 2017, at the Academy of Music Theatre in Northampton. Stage Director Description: The stage director creates the overall artistic concept of the show. He/ She works closely with the musical director as well as the set and costume designers, the choreographer and technical staff to carry out the concept. The stage director also rehearses principals and chorus in dialogue, acting, blocking, and dancing. Rehearsals begin in early September and are typically three nights a week plus a full tech week prior to opening night. All participants in VLO are volunteers, including all producers, directors, performers and crew. For those interested in applying as stage director, proposals should be submitted by January 20th, 2017. Proposals may be submitted to VLO president Kate Green at: kate.green11@aol.com and must include the following: * Letter of interest and artistic concept (no more than 3 pages) * Theater or music resume * References Nominations are also encouraged and may be submitted to the same email address. Applications will be reviewed as they arrive, starting immediately, and will be accepted until January 23, 2017. Finalists may be invited to make a presentation to the VLO Board after that date. A description of the stage version of My Fair Lady can be found here. Valley Light Opera is an all-volunteer, not-for-profit organization based in Amherst, MA. Each year for over 40 years the VLO has produced fully-staged, orchestrated and lavishly costumed productions of Gilbert and Sullivan operettas and other musical theater works. Rehearsals are typically in Hadley or Amherst, and performances at the Academy of Music in Northampton. Applicants who are unfamiliar with VLO are encouraged to explore our website at vlo.org. Questions? Please email VLO president Kate Green, atkate.green11@aol.com. Artist Fellowships Available The Massachusetts Cultural Council is now accepting 2017 Artist Fellowship applications in the categories of Film & Video, Music Composition, and Photography. Deadline: Monday, January 23, 2017. Read the program guidelines and tips on applying. The Artist Fellowships are competitive, anonymously judged grants of $12,000 and finalist awards of $1,000, providing direct support to individual Massachusetts artists in recognition of artistic excellence. Smith College Department of Theatre presents Auditions for BAKKHAI By Euripides, a new translation by Anne Carson directed by Emma Laube '17 Performances April 21, 22, 27, 28, 29 at 7:30 PM, Theatre 14. Auditions will be held Sunday and Monday, January 29 and 30, 7-10 PM in Acting Studio 1. Callbacks will be on Wednesday, February 2, 7-10 PM. No appointment or preparation necessary. Sides from the script will be provided. Perusal scripts are available in Josten Library. Roles for 11-13 actors. Five college and community members welcome. We welcome diversity and color inclusive casting.  About the play: A powerful new translation of the Greek classic by award-winning Classics scholar, poet, and writer Anne Carson. Pentheus has banned the wild, riutalistic worship of the god Dionysos. A stranger arrives to persuade him to change his mind. Euripides's electrifying tragedy is a struggle to the death between freedom and restraint, the rational and the irrational, man and god. Facebook event here. More information on the website. WORKSHOPS & CLASSES Phantom Sheep Productions and J-ART present January Improv Jam Workshop January 23 at 7:00 PM Springfield Jewish Community Center In partnership with J-ART, Phantom Sheep presents an evening of improv with a jam workshop! (For Adults & Teens 15+) Start the New Year with a night of improv games that we'll teach and play alongside you! Brush up on skills! Get a taste of our upcoming classes! Meet new people! Laugh and have fun! All levels welcome. Facebook event here. Admission*: $5 * Free if you sign up for our upcoming 6 week session that starts February 13th!  In partnership with J-ART, Phantom Sheep presents LaughCrafters:Comedy Improv Classes!  Adults & Teens (Ages 15+) WINTER SESSION! The fun continues! All levels welcomed! Six Mondays 7-9PM Starting February 13th! Springfield Jewish Community Center Sharpen quick thinking! Unleash creativity and characters! Build confidence in your own talents! Enjoy the power of collaboration! Improve acting and stage presence! Relax and laugh! (a lot)! All levels welcomed and challenged at own pace. Taught in a very fun, encouraging, and constructive atmosphere. 6 weeks! Tuition: $90 General Public *Discounts available for JCC and JART Members.  Class size is limited!  Register Today!  413-739-4715  improv@phantomsheep.com Facebook event here. Copyright © *|CURRENT_YEAR|* *|LIST:COMPANY|*, All rights reserved. *|IFNOT:ARCHIVE_PAGE|* *|LIST:DESCRIPTION|* Our mailing address is: *|HTML:LIST_ADDRESS_HTML|* *|END:IF|* unsubscribe from this list    update subscription preferences  *|IF:REWARDS|* *|HTML:REWARDS|* *|END:IF|*