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Pioneer Valley Theatre Newsletter

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February 21-March 13, 2019

Well, I've been in tech all week - come see The Moors at Smith College opening tomorrow. There may be some ushering slots left if you want to see it for free!

Don't forget that there are a bunch of excellent workshops and auditions - just scroll to the bottom of the email or view it in your browser by clicking the link at the top right.

The next issue will include events through March 20. 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 H owlround
Rethinking the Purpose of British Arts Institutions
by Lyn Gardner

From the article:

“Not for me, not for you, but for us.” You will find that motto etched into the ceiling of Battersea Arts Centre in South West London. Perched on Lavender Hill, Battersea sits in the heart of Wandsworthand was once the area’s local town hall, at the very hub of civic society. Theatre is still staged in the old Victorian debating chamber where nineteenth-century politicians deliberated the issues of the day, and for over a century the building has been part of local people’s lives.

Have you read an interesting article about theatre recently? Send it to me! pioneervalleytheatre@gmail.com

Want to know even more about events in the Pioneer Valley and beyond,
including reviews, interviews, and previews?
In the Spotlight, Inc.
Berkshire on Stage
Stagestruck

Click to Access: Pioneer Valley Theatre Personnel Spreadsheet

PERFORMANCES

UMass Amherst Theater presents WILD THING
By Luis Vélez de Guevara, translated by Harley Erdman
Directed by Gina Kaufmann
Feb. 21, 22, 23 at 7:30 p.m. | Feb. 23 at 2 p.m.
The Rand Theater

Sword fights, slapstick, over-the-top revenge, and a main character who defies the gender conventions of 400 years ago AND nowadays — Wild Thing is a wild ride of a play.
Running at UMass Theater's Rand Theater in the Fine Arts Center from Feb. 14-23, Wild Thing introduces audiences to Gila, a fiercely transgressive protagonist who considers herself both a daughter and a man. At first, things are well: Gila is much admired and loved in the small village where she grew up. She's a great hunter, enjoys a good swordfight, and has a crush on Queen Isabel.
Eventually, however, 17th century society demands feminity and marriage, and the men Gila encounters are willing to go to violent lengths to enforce obedience — which is when the play shifts into overdrive to follow Gila as she exacts her revenge upon the world.

Wild Thing was translated by Harley Erdman from Luis Vélez de Guevara’s La Serrana de la Vera. This compellingly theatrical production has been accepted to the Chamizal International “Siglo” Festival of Spanish Classical Theatre, to take place in El Paso, Texas in April 2019. It marks a triumphant return to the festival for UMass Theater, which presented Marta the Divine there eight years ago to considerable acclaim.
Erdman is a nationally-recognized translator and adaptor of works by Spanish-language playwrights from the 1600s, finding plays that have never been performed in English, often with female characters who break expected gender norms, which brings us back to Gila. Past generations may not have used the same language to talk about members of the non-binary and trans community as we do today, but Gila elicited a shock of recognition among the non-binary actors who auditioned for the role. It is rare enough to see onstage a character who doesn't fit neatly into the gender categories in our society, they told Theater chair and Wild Thing director Gina Kaufmann, but to find such a character cutting a swath through the Spanish countryside in the late Renaissance was a revelation.
Wild Thing, seemingly centuries ahead of its time, challenges even modern ideas of gender that exist in today’s society and makes for riveting theater. Join us in the Rand this February.

Due to the themes and language in our production including references to sexual violence and a high body count, we recommend this show for audiences members over 14 years old.
$5 students and seniors, $15 general admission, reservations encouraged. Call 1-800-999-UMAS or visit the Fine Arts Center Box Office online.

BOEING-BOEING LANDS AT MAJESTIC THEATER FEBRUARY 21 – MARCH 31

“Boeing-Boeing,” a classic French farce by Marc Camoletti, will be presented at West Springfield's Majestic Theater February 21 – March 31. The comedy, translated and adapted by Beverley Cross, premiered in London in the 1960s where it ran for seven years. A 2008 Broadway revival garnered Tony Awards for Best Actor (Mark Rylance) and Best Revival of a Play.

The story is set in Paris, home to an American architect and lothario named Bernard who is “engaged” to three different air hostesses who don't know each other exists. All along Bernard has been carefully arranging their arrivals and departures based on the their flight schedules into Paris's Orly Airport. This arrangement works for him until one day he is visited unexpectedly by Robert, an old school chum from America. As Robert arrives, various flight schedules are changed, and the three women begin showing up at once. Critics describe “Boeing-Boeing” as a “madcap, politically incorrect, door-slamming romp of a comedy.”

Majestic Theater veteran Rand Foerster will direct the play with Danny Eaton serving as producing director. Greg Trochlil is set designer, Dawn McKay is costume designer, Dan Rist is lighting designer and production manager is Stephen Petit. Actors include Jack Grigoli (Bernard), Scott Renzoni (Robert), Christine Anthony (Bertha), Kyle Boatwright (Gloria), Katie Mack (Gabriella) and Larissa Marten (Gretchen).

Tickets for these shows range from $24-$34 and are now available by calling or visiting the box office during its hours of operation, which are Monday through Friday 10am – 5pm and Saturday 10am – 1pm.
For additional information, visit www.majestictheater.com.

Smith College Department of Theatre presents THE MOORS by Jen Silverman
directed by Isabelle Brown
February 22, 23, 28, March 1, 2 at 7:30 PM
Hallie Flanagan Studio Theatre

Two sisters and a dog live out their lives on the bleak English moors, dreaming of love and power. The arrival of a hapless governess and a moor-hen set all three on a strange and dangerous path. The Moors is a dark comedy about love, desperation, and visibility.

Tickets available online or by calling the box office at 413-585-3220.

The Happier Valley World Open Cup Grand Prix Series Derby Bowl Championship!
February 23 at 7:00 PM
Happier Valley Comedy Theater, 1 Mill Rd, Hadley, MA

In this competitive comedy show, two teams of improvisers face off through scenes and games to see who can win the ultimate prize: an old trophy we found in someone's attic. Saturday, February 23rd at 7pm at the new Happier Valley Comedy Theater (1 Mill Valley Rd, Hadley, on rte.9). And stick around after for the 9pm showcase and open improv jam! Tickets: $13 online and at the door. For more info: www.happiervalley.com.

What?
The Northampton Arts Council will present our 27th annual local variety showcase on Sunday February 24, 2019 at the Academy of Music. After a successful new theme debut in 2018 we are proud to announce once again “Live from Northampton, it’s Sunday Afternoon!”

Sunday Afternoon Live! will feature sketch comedy, improv theater, music, and video from a cross section of rising and established artists from the Northampton area. A showcase of the best local talent in the Valley’s favorite variety show at the communities’ most beloved theater. A surprise celebrity will host with the Really Big Show orchestra led by Jim Armenti.

Featuring...
Northampton High School Improv ensemble Funktionlust.
Deep Thoughts with Henning Ohlenbusch
Violet Walker plays the Musical Saw
Get your yearly dose of local news with Afternoon Update
The Baystate Hotel Music History Project
Adventures with Mask Girl

Featured Band: The Leafies You Gave Me

When?
Sunday, February 24 – 2:00 PM Showtime, Doors Open at 1:30PM

Where?
Academy of Music Theatre, 274 Main Street Northampton, MA 01060

How Much?
Advance - $10 Adults/$8 Senior 65+ & Students/$5 Kids 12 & Under

Day of at door - $13 Adults/$11 Senior 65+ & Students/$8 Kids 12 & Under

Ticket Outlet?
Academy of Music Theatre, 274 Main Street Northampton, MA 01060

K and E Theater Group Presents SONGS FOR A NEW WORLD
March 7, 8 & 9 at 7:30 PM and March 10 at 2:00 PM
Northampton Center for the Arts, 33 Hawley Street, Northampton, MA

"It's about one moment" for Western Massachusetts’ bold, new theater company, K and E Theater Group presents Tony Award Winner Jason Robert Brown’s first musical, SONGS FOR A NEW WORLD, one weekend only, March 7-10 at Northampton Center for the Arts in Northampton.

The musical is presented as a collection of songs, artfully blending pop, jazz and gospel in powerful solo and ensemble numbers sweeping us into the multiple journeys that result in that “one moment” where we decide to stand our ground, take one step, and eventually find our way home.

SONGS FOR A NEW WORLD features Ben Ashley, Paula Cortis, Melissa Dupont, and David Webber. Musical Direction by Bill Martin and Direction by KETG President and Artistic Director, Eddie Zitka.

All performances are at Northampton Center for the Arts, located at 33 Hawley Street in Northampton, Massachusetts. Tickets are general admission for $25.00. There is no reserved seating.

Visit www.KETG.org for more information about our company and our production.
Tickets.

The Drama Studio Inc. presents The Wolves
3/08/19 @ 7:30 PM, 3/09/19 @ 7:30PM, 3/10/19 @ 6:30PM, 3/15 @7:30PM, 3/16 @ 7:30PM, 3/17 @ 3PM & 6:30PM
41 Oakland St. Springfield, MA 01118

Left quad. Right quad. Lunge. A girls indoor soccer team warms up. From the safety of their suburban stretch circle, the team navigates big questions and wages tiny battles with all the vim and vigor of a pack of adolescent warriors. A portrait of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness for nine American girls who just want to score some goals.

*This show contains strong language and mature content.
*Currently our facility is not handicap accessible

TICKETS ARE NON-REFUNDABLE AND NON-EXCHANGEABLE. Online ticket sales close 5 hours prior to the start of the performance.If the event is listed as sold out please contact us as 413-739-1983 for wait listing and potential availability.

wolves.brownpapertickets.com

March 9 and 23: Piti Theatre's 10th annual SYRUP: One Sweet Performing Arts Festival, Shelburne Falls Come experience a unique Hilltown tradition where the joy of the performing arts meets the sweetness of sap! Piti’s celebration of spring for family audiences at Shelburne-Buckland Community Center, 53 Main St. on Saturday, March 9 starts with a Pancake Party at 11 am! Award winning physical comedian Alex the Jester as seen on PBS and off-Broadway headlines the Festival at 3:30 pm followed by Alex's teen/adult workshop Primal Talk: Non-Verbal Stuff Made Fun! Piti’s much loved musical "Olde Coleraine" is at 2:30 and join us for pancakes, syrups, skits, and a CD release party from 11 - 2:30. Plus free Real Pickles and Red Sox raffle! Tix: $12/$10 students & seniors/$5 children at ptco.org/syrup or 1-800-838-3006.

Day 2 of SYRUP on Saturday, March 23: Tell them you saw it when! Piti Theatre's Jonathan Mirin, clown-dancer Narieka Masla, pianist Laura Josephs and vocalist Christian Schwedbler share their works-in-progress @ The Barn at 31 Water Street in Shelburne Falls. 2:30 pm: Masla's "Learning to Tango" followed by Mirin's comedic, autobiographical "Canary in the Goldmine" at 3 pm about his wife's developing a mysterious illness which turns out to be electro-sensitivity. Josephs and Schwedbler send us into the night with piano/vocal works by Mendelssohn, Vaughan Williams, Ravel and Ives. And yes, there will be syrup tasting between each and every artist! March 23^rd is a free event recommended for ages 15+ Reservations strongly suggested because The Barn at 31 Water Street is an intimate venue. Reserve by emailing: info@ptco.org. Complete festival info: ptco.org/syrup

Future of the Performing Arts in Easthampton
Sunday, March 31, 2-4PM
Flywheel Arts, Easthampton Old Town Hall
43 Main Street, Easthampton

Performing arts organizations, organizational leaders, performers, musicians, artists, and interested community members are invited to attend a convening on the Future of Performing Arts in Easthampton II.

Join CitySpace and performing arts stakeholders for a tour of the Old Town Hall and presentation and discussion about the next steps for the Old Town Hall’s 2nd floor performing arts and community space. We are looking for your feedback on the vision and facility plan, and how CitySpace’s next steps fits into the performing arts eco-system of Easthampton and the Pioneer Valley.

While you are in Easthampton, come check out two city-wide events — come early for Easthampton WinterFest: City-Wide Festival and stick around for Art Walk Easthampton!

This convening is presented in partnership with CitySpace, Pioneer Valley Theatre News, Flywheel Arts Collective, and others. The Future of Performing Arts in Easthampton II is a follow-up and outcome from the 2013 charette that mobilized CitySpace to restore and manage the 2nd floor space into a flexible performing arts and community space. Since then CitySpace has been actively creating the strategies for the next steps including finalizing architectural construction design, and cost estimates with Kuhn Riddle Architects.

The Future of Performing Arts in Easthampton II is free and open to the public.
Facebook event.

AUDITIONS & OPPORTUNITIES

Silverthorne Theater presents Auditions for AUDITIONS for THE FANTASTICKS

Friday, February 22, 7-9 pm
Saturday, February 23, 1-4 pm
Callbacks, Sunday, February 24, 1-4 pm

The Pushkin Gallery of Hawks & Reed PAC,
corner of Main & Federal St, Greenfield

By Harvey Schmidt and Tom Jones
Directed by Carmela Lanza-Weil

Performance dates: June 20-29.
Rehearsals – staging begins May 13; individual coaching before that

To schedule an audition slot, call 413-768-7514, or write tosilverthornetheater@gmail.com
• Auditioners should prepare a 1-2 minute excerpt from a song, and a 1-2 minute memorized monologue
• When you sign up, please indicate whether you will bring sheet music, a CD, or an MP3 file to accompany you
• Please bring a current resume and headshot, or send electronically to silverthornetheater@gmail.com when making your appointment
• Equity & non-Equity; all roles paid
• All types & ethnicities welcome

THE ROLES
The Mute M or F, non-speaking mime
El Gallo M Swashbuckling rake-for-hire
Luisa F A young girl just becoming aware of herself
Matt M A young boy who is very aware of Luisa
Hucklebee M or F, Father (or mother) of Matt
Bellomy M or F, Father (or mother) of Luisa
Henry M or F An ancient actor
Mortimer M or F A down-at-heels actor

SYNOPSIS
Whimsical, poignant, and romantic, The Fantasticks is an allegorical story that focuses on two young lovers, their meddling fathers, and the journey we all must take through adolescent thrills, the growing pains of hurt and betrayal, the highs of passion, the challenges of distance, and the agonies of heartbreak to discover how to truly love. In a theatrical and inventive fashion, our gallant and enigmatic narrator--El Gallo--introduces us to a pair of young lovers, Matt and Luisa, who experience the magical, moonlit phase of falling in love. For a time, romance seems perpetually exciting, and heroics seem always to save the day. However, El Gallo leads our young protagonists from the romantic moonlight into the harsh sunshine, where the weaknesses in their relationship are exposed and the reality of the struggles and heartache love brings is revealed. With the understanding that “without a hurt the heart is hollow,” Matt and Luisa manage to find their own identities, and in turn, to discover their strengths as a couple in times of both darkness and light. With the record for the longest American theatrical run, The Fantasticks is a gem of the American musical theatre. Featuring timeless classics like “Try to Remember” and “Soon It’s Gonna Rain,” this simple and beautiful ensemble piece is as beloved and as timely as it was when it opened over 50 years ago.
More information here and here.

What:
Summer performing job opportunities!
Six Flags New England 2019 spring and summer Talent Auditions
Six Flags annual talent auditions for actors, singers, dancers, characters, super heroes, musicians and
technical staff for spring and summer shows.
Where & When:
Wednesday, February 27, 11am – 3pm
Holyoke Community College, Fine & Performing Arts Building, Forum Theater
303 Homestead Ave., Holyoke, MA
Saturday, March 2, 2019, 11am – 3pm
Six Flags New England Human Resource Center
1756 Main St., Agawam, MA
Details:
 Apply ahead at www.sixflags.com/sfnecasting
 Must be 16 or older and have an energetic and enthusiastic personality.
 Dance and character applicants will learn a short movement combination.
 Actors should prepare a two minute comic monologue.
 Superhero applicants must be physically fit, between 5’7” – 6’3” and meet casting
requirements. Hero applicants should call for additional information and submission process.
 Headshot & Resume appreciated.
 Call (413) 821-2620 for more info and casting requirements or visit sixflags.com/sfnecasting.

AUDITIONS MARCH 2, 9 & 16 FOR CHILDREN'S THEATER AT MAJESTIC THEATER

Auditions are currently being booked from 10am – 6pm on March 2, 9 and 16 for parts in this summer's lineup of Majestic Children's Theater at West Springfield's Majestic Theater.

Performers aged 14-19 are encouraged to call the theater at (413) 747-7797 during business hours (Monday through Friday 10am-5pm and Saturday 10am-1pm) to schedule an appointment. They will be asked to read scenes during their audition. Performing a monologue (not to exceed one minute in length) and singing are encouraged, but not required. If singing at the audition, performers may bring an instrumental CD to accompany themselves. If the instrumental song is stored on their phone, the theater will provide a bluetooth speaker.

Shows being performed on a rotating schedule this July and August are “Disney's Mulan Jr.,” “Dr. Seuss's The Cat in the Hat” and “Charlotte's Web.”

The Theater Project is a non-profit company that Producing Director Danny Eaton founded in 1991. Since March 1997 it has been in residence in West Springfield's historic Majestic Theater, a century-old venue that was recently named "Best Place to See Theater" and “Best Live Theatre Company” in newspaper polls. In addition, Eaton's work at the Majestic was honored with a Regional Award for Outstanding Achievement in the American Theatre by the New England Theatre Conference. For additional information, visit www.majestictheater.com.

Academy of Music Theatre seeks Technical Director

Description:

The Technical Director (TD) has the daily responsibility for the theatrical technical operations of the Academy of Music Theatre, including lighting, sound, set design and construction, and coordinating necessary theatrical maintenance. The Technical Director will act as crew chief, determining number of stagehands and scheduling staff for all productions. The TD will act as liaison with the steward of I.A.T.S.E. Local 232, communicating the number of stagehands required and will oversee union crew during production. The TD is responsible for all technical operations during all shows.

Duties and responsibilities include:

Determines the necessary technical supports, such as lighting, sound, staging, and special needs, necessary for events and performances presented at the facility in advance of production dates.

Engineers and provides for set ups, maintains and operates all house systems including but not limited to rigging, lighting, projections and sound systems for theater, dance, music, and other productions and projects; assists guest designers and artists with technical matters.

Engineers, supervises and assists with set and stage construction, installation and management.

Oversees stage crews and back stage staff; responsible for hiring and firing non-I.A.T.S.E stagehands and for maintaining records of job performance for all stage hands. Makes recommendations for training.

Orients Academy renters and visiting productions to safety, technical characteristics and other areas of facility operations; facilitates the use of the technical facilities by the resident company and others engaged by or renting the Academy.

Monitors the condition of and maintains all Academy theatrical equipment including lighting, sound, projection and rigging equipment; arranges for the repair and replacement within budget; performs preventive maintenance on equipment; prepares annual budget for equipment purchases and maintenance.

Assists with the preparation and control of Academy production budgets; maintains inventory and orders specialized supplies.
Provides estimate for production costs prior to rental contract execution and for Academy productions; provides invoice for work performed to Executive Director.

Assists Front of House Manager with facility maintenance.
Any other tasks assigned by Executive Director

Qualifications:

At least 3 years of relevant experience with a performing arts venue
Working knowledge of current techniques, methods and procedures of theater, dance, and music productions and presentations including stage, set, sound and lighting design and implementation; stage management; computerized lighting systems; stage carpentry; appropriate safety precautions and procedures.
Ability to lift and carry 50lbs
Excellent communication and interpersonal skill
Master Electrician
BFA in Technical Theater or commensurate experience
Experience working in a union house preferred

How To Apply:
Please send cover letter and résumé to Executive Director Debra J'Anthony at djanthony@aomtheatre.com by March 12, 2019. No phone calls, please.
Apply by:
March 12, 2019
Salary:
competitive
About this Organization:
The Academy of Music Theatre is an 803 seat non-profit performing arts center located in the beautiful college town of Northampton, Massachusetts.

Smith College Department of Theatre seeks Technical Director

Position Summary:

Supervise and instruct students in technical responsibilities for the theatre complex and assist the instructor of set design courses. Responsible for scene shop operations and the safe use of theatre spaces in the Mendenhall Center for the Performing Arts.

Duties and Responsibilities:

Supervise the Assistant Technical Director, student interns, assistants, and crews in the use and maintenance of all shop and stage equipment and stage properties, the setup and safety of flexible seating, dismantling and recycling of all scenery; organization of the technical and stage crew, and general shop and stage safety.

Create all construction drawings and direct the engineering, construction and rigging of all scenery including the scheduling of scenic construction, scene painting, installation of technical elements. Maintain, organize, and inventory all shop equipment, scenery, properties, platform storage, traps, flying equipment, floor treatments, rehearsal and stage spaces. Prepare annual stage and shop budget request and supervise all expenditures. Assist with the instruction of design and technical areas as requested by design faculty. Consult with the Assistant Technical Director, who serves part-time as the Technical Director for the Department of Dance, regarding dance production needs in theatre spaces. Assess the production needs of non-Departmental groups, provide a list of pre-approved technical staff, and/or approve the qualifications of visiting technical personnel.

Supervise the safe use of theatre spaces, including the scene shop and technical equipment, with the exception of lighting and sound equipment. Oversee the maintenance of all performance spaces.

Qualifications:

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

Education/Experience: Master of Fine Arts degree in appropriate field or professional equivalent experience.

Skills: Must have requisite technical skills in all aspects of construction, carpentry, metal work, and stage rigging, as well as a complete knowledge of shop and stage equipment. Knowledge of Vector Works and/or Auto CAD design software required. Knowledge of theatrical automation a plus.

Additional Information: Smith College is an EO/AA/Vet/Disability Employer

APPLY ONLINE.

Sex and Power Looking for Lighting Designer and Stage Manager!

Performances will be in early spring at the Northampton Arts Trust. Small stipend available.

Actor, dancer, interfaith minister Joanna Rush girlsplains the complexities of Sex and Power in our culture. Enduring date rape and gang rape in real life she went on to a career in movies and on stage playing various species of seductress, which, by the way, exposed her to misogyny as practiced internationally throughout history. Covering ground that ranges from evolutionary biology to Greek mythology, the invention of masculinity, our socio-economic systems, and anecdotes from her own acting career, she provides insights that can help us heal today’s sorry state of sexual affairs. Rush’s creative, nontraditional outlook offers hope and a road map for how we can progress and ride the #MeToo movement into a healthier sexual landscape for all.

More information here. Contact Joanna with questions.

WORKSHOPS & CLASSES

Happier Valley Comedy presents Happier Kids Improv Workshop
March 2 at 10:00 AM
Happier Valley Comedy Theater, 1 Mill Rd, Hadley, MA

Calling all kids! Join long-time improviser Kelsey Flynn for a fun-filled one-time improv comedy workshop.

For kids’ eyes only: We’ll spend the morning playing lots of crazy fun improv games together like Bus Stop, Bunny Bunny, and Hitchhiker. If you don’t know how to play the games, don’t worry! They’re super easy to learn! Whether you’re brand new to improv or have played a bunch of these games already, you are guaranteed to laugh because that’s what improv is all about.

For adults’ eyes only: In recent years, research studies have shown that laughter is known to reduce stress hormones, boost brain power, and increase energy and focus, in addition to being contagious. Using fun and low risk comedy improv games (all suitable for elementary school aged kids), we’ll laugh as well as strengthen self-expression and communication skills.
The morning workshop is appropriate for 8- to 10-year olds, and the afternoon workshop is appropriate for 11- to 13-year-olds.

https://www.happiervalley.com/happierkids.html

Serious Play Theatre Ensemble presents Moving Water- Exploratory Workshops
March 2, noon, April 6th, noon to 3PM; April 27th, 11AM to 2PM
Serious Play Studio #233, Eastworks, 116 Pleasant St, Easthampton, MA

Join Serious Play Artistic Director, Sheryl Stoodley, and Visual Artist Rosalyn Driscoll in a collaborative exploration of water in word, movement, sound, and text.

Three Saturday workshops, open to the community

To register, contact Serious Play (seriousplaytheatre@gmail.com)
Be sure to include chosen date, your name, phone number, and e-mail address

Dress for movement

Make, find, or bring a vessel to hold water

Participants 20+, limited enrollment
Fee $20, pay at the door

Happier Valley Comedy presents Free Your Mind: Beginner/Intermediate Improv Workshop with Philip Markle

March 9 at 10:00AM
Happier Valley Comedy Theater, 1 Mill Rd, Hadley, MA

We start with our core belief that loving the hell out of whatever is happening onstage is the key to strong, successful scenes. You will learn that there is no right or wrong way to improvise - and that you become powerful as a performer by embracing your mistakes and failing gloriously. This class pairs this sense of artistic freedom with a focus on creating from a strong point of view, to be specific and surprising in your choices, and to confidently navigate the vocabulary and concepts that make-up long-form scenic improv. Then, we focus on the performer as part of the scene by diving into the dynamics that make up surprising and believable two-person, three-person, and group scene work. Lastly, we focus on the performer as part of the ensemble: so you can take care of yourself onstage--great! Now, how can you be a team player who listens and supports every move to build long-form pieces organically. The class culminates in specific, personal notes to challenge your own artistic roadblocks and a final performance for the public.

More information.

Happier Valley Comedy presents Advanced Scene Dynamics: Advanced Improv Workshop with Philip Markle

March 9 at 2:00 PM
Happier Valley Comedy Theater, 1 Mill Rd, Hadley, MA

This class builds on the baseline level of fearless playing, strong/specific choices, and ability to attack the stage. Now, we will challenge ourselves with advanced improv techniques, such as how to find the "edge" in every scene and take it from good to great, exploring the role of the individual in an ensemble, living dangerously in the moment-to-moment instead of plotting ahead, authentically acting and grounding your characters, and diving into the dynamics that make up three-person and group scene work and longforms. Students will receive personal feedback based on their work in this class.

Prerequisite: Completion of Zen of Improv 4 or equivalent experience from another comedy school.

More information.

Upcoming Training Programs at Double Edge Theatre

Double Edge Theatre was founded by Stacy Klein to research the role of actors’ training in the development of performance creation. Training is the heart and vitality of Double Edge’s creative process. Since 1982, when it was first developed by Klein based on her work with Rena Mirecka, Grotowski’s founding actor, it has grown to include work with large objects, developed by Klein and David Flaxman from 1985, and then outdoor work and spectacle developed with Carlos Uriona since 1996. Since 2011 Matthew Glassman has been leading the development of training at Double Edge. The unique, holistic methodology engages the actor’s full potential – physical, vocal, emotional, and imaginative – to drive individual exploration, ensemble collaboration, and performance creation.

Summer Intensive: May 31 - June 14, 2019
Spectacle Immersion: May 31 - Aug 24, 2019
Fall Immersion: Fall 2019

Winter Intensive: January 1 - 7, 2019
Spring Intensive: March 15 - 17, 2019
Creation Lab: March 15 - April 14, 2019