Thursday, July 22, 2021

Pioneer Valley Theatre News July 21, 2021

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Pioneer Valley Theatre Newsletter
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July 22 - August 11, 2021


One of the drawbacks of all this outdoor theatre: the weather. A few of the Berkshires performances were cancelled due to thunderstorms. Fingers crossed for the show I'm going to outside this week - and the show I'm working next month. Check out Chris Rohmann's review of some of these shows that have been changed by weather - or Actor's Equity - here.

The next issue will include events from July 29 through August 18. 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
Ko Festival of Performance & Serious Play Theatre Ensemble present
MOVING WATER
LIVE July 22-25, VIRTUAL July 30-August 1 Tickets Available
YOUR EVENT HERE
$5 per week for your poster and ticket link in top billing!
Email me to reserve your dates.
Click to Access: Pioneer Valley Theatre Google Calendar
Click to Access: Pioneer Valley Theatre Personnel Spreadsheet
THIS WEEK IN THEATRE NEWS:
from Howlround

Creating a Platform for BIPOC, Deaf, and Hard-of-Hearing Artists
by Yura Sapi

From the article: 

Yura Sapi: Imanalla mashikuna. Imanallatak kanki. Hello, friends. How are you? Welcome back to season two of the Building Our Own Tables podcast. I’m your host, Yura Sapi, recording from Embera native lands on the Afro-Indigenous Pacific coast of Columbia in Nuquí, Chocó in the Gulf of Tribugá. The Building Our Own Tables podcast is produced for HowlRound Theatre Commons, a free and open platform for theatremakers worldwide, and by Advancing Arts Forward, a movement to advance equity, inclusion and justice through the arts by creating liberated spaces that uplift, heal and encourage us to change the world.

Have you read an interesting article about theatre recently? Send it to me! pioneervalleytheatre@gmail.com
LIVE PERFORMANCES
LIVE SHOW SOLD OUT - but you can join the waitlist - or get your tickets now for the virtual performances during the second weekend! 
 
Serious Play Theatre Ensemble and Ko Festival of Performance present
MOVING WATER
 
In the face of rising sea levels, a new devised theatre piece about climate change, & how water fragility shapes our human interactions…

LIVE: July 22-25, Thurs.– Sat. at 8pm, Sun. at 4pm with a talkback  
Workroom Theatre | APE@Hawley | Arts Trust | 33 Hawley St., Northampton  

WEB: July 30–Aug 1, Fri. & Sat. at 8pm, Sun. at 4pm with talkbacks
via online through Ko Festival of Performance
Multi-camera recording by Northampton Open Media 

ALL TICKETS ARE AVAILABLE AT https://kofest.com

a 2-year collaboration by Serious Play Theatre Ensemble
 written by Eric Henry Sanders
 direction: Sheryl Stoodley
 original music: Jonny Rodgers
 set & video design: Robin Doty
 lighting design Sabrina Hamilton
 with actors: Kermit Dunkelberg, Ximena Salmerón, Will Swyers

Questions: seriousplaytheatre@gmail.com or 413-588-7439
And check out the new Serious Play website: seriousplay.org
Chester Theatre Company
THE NICETIES
Wednesdays at 3, Thursdays at 3 & 7:30, Friday at 7:30, Saturday at 7:30, Sunday at 3. Thru July 25.
Hancock Shaker Village, 1843 W Housatonic St, Pittsfield, MA

A barnburner of a play written by Eleanor Burgess, THE NICETIES explores issues of race, power, and history on an elite college campus.

http://chestertheatre.org/

Due to COVID, Chester Theatre Company is presenting its 2021 season in a large marquee tent on the grounds of Hancock Shaker Village.
Silverthorne Theater Company presents
A Broadway Cabaret

August 6 & 7 at 7:30 p.m.
August 8 at 3:00 p.m.
 
What better way to celebrate the return of live theater than with music? In our first major post-pandemic production, Silverthorne Theater Company presents A Broadway Cabaret, onstage August 6-8 in The Perch at Hawks & Reed Performing Arts Center in downtown Greenfield. Nine singer/actors will perform tunes from Broadway’s Golden Age shows - solos and ensemble numbers presented for audiences seated at cabaret tables arranged for maximum comfort and following whatever state guidelines for indoor performance are in place at that time.

A Broadway Cabaret is a fundraiser for Silverthorne which, like all other live theaters, saw drastically reduced revenues during the COVID-19 shutdown in 2020. 
In recognition of their extraordinary service provided to the community during the COVID-19 pandemic, a portion of tickets for each performance have been donated to local health care workers.

Join us as we celebrate how far we have come as a community and the return of live theater!

Tickets available via Eventbrite.

https://silverthornetheater.org/special-events/
VIRTUAL PERFORMANCES
SILVERTHORNE THEATER ANNOUNCES
RADIO PRODUCTION FUNDRAISER -  FOXFINDER

Silverthorne Theater brings back the days of radio drama with its production of Dawn King’s haunting play, Foxfinder. A fundraiser for the theater, the show will be broadcast one time only at 7:30 pm on Saturday, July 24, on the Company’s YouTube channel. Listeners will be sent the link to the special broadcast with their donation of any size. Details can be found on the Silverthorne website at https://silverthornetheater.org/special-events
 
Veteran director Ellen Kaplan directs an all-star cast of actors, including Frank Aronson, Jarice Hanson, Stephanie Carlson and Kevin Tracy as they bring the futurist tale to life. Cate Boram is sound designer, and Sophia Pichanick stage manages the production. All are donating their services in the interest of assisting Silverthorne as the theater recovers from the past year of shuttered venues.
 
Foxfinder is a play of suspense, a thriller, a story of power, zealotry and self-denial, that puts a sinister shadow on our very near future.  It is a study in power, in suppressed sexuality, in a fascist mindset manifested in a young boy sent on a mission to force compliance, deny feelings, and – to eradicate foxes, which we cannot see but which are everywhere. 
Originally set in rural England, Kaplan has moved the action to the equally appropriate American farm country where at some future time, climate change has severely impacted the profitability of the farmers. Government regulations and a carefully orchestrated fear-mongering campaign stretch their already taut emotions to the breaking point.
Though Silverthorne Theater managed to continue working during the COVID-19 shutdown with several well-received virtual productions, the normal sources of revenue to cover the expense of maintaining personnel and office space was drastically reduced. The proceeds from this fundraiser will go directly to ensuring the start-up of our 2021-22 season can proceed as planned.
From the New England New Play Alliance:

Virtual Theatre
and Audio Plays


Cape Cod Theatre Project presents
God’s Spies
by Bill Cain
July 22 and 24
directed by Hal Brooks

It is the pandemic of 1603 and theaters are closed for a year. Shakespeare is quarantined with a young Puritan lawyer and a mature streetwise prostitute, and the plague opens his eyes to the mysteries of life and death. Will he thrive creatively, or will his new play be as disappointing as his last? Tickets: $25.

Serious Play Theatre Ensemble and Ko Festival of Performance present
MOVING WATER
 
In the face of rising sea levels, a new devised theatre piece about climate change, & how water fragility shapes our human interactions…

WEB: July 30–Aug 1, Fri. & Sat. at 8pm, Sun. at 4pm with talkbacks
via online through Ko Festival of Performance
Multi-camera recording by Northampton Open Media 

ALL TICKETS ARE AVAILABLE AT https://kofest.com

a 2-year collaboration by Serious Play Theatre Ensemble
 written by Eric Henry Sanders
 direction: Sheryl Stoodley
 original music: Jonny Rodgers
 set & video design: Robin Doty
 lighting design Sabrina Hamilton
 with actors: Kermit Dunkelberg, Ximena Salmerón, Will Swyers

Questions: seriousplaytheatre@gmail.com or 413-588-7439
And check out the new Serious Play website: seriousplay.org
Ko Festival of Performance presents
HAWAII FIVE-G: Canary in the Gold Mine
PITI THEATRE COMPANY

Written and performed by Jonathan Mirin
Directed by Deanna Fleysher
Sound Design & Stream Engineering by M Florian Staab
Videography by Hannah Brookman
ONLINE: AUGUST 6- 8 | Fri. & Sat at 8pm, EST | Sun. at 4pm, EST
Live, online post-show discussions with collaborators & guest experts, hosted by Trenda Loftin, follow each online performance.

Hawaii Five-G was sparked by the appearance of mysterious symptoms, as performer Jonathan Mirin’s partner became increasingly sickened by electro-hypersensitivity (EHS), a.k.a. “microwave sickness.” As her condition worsened, Mirin found himself compelled to become a public health advocate, activist & petitioner in a landmark legal case against the FCC.

The production is highly theatrical and employs many of the tricks and techniques theatre makers have been devising in this COVID-driven age of “Zoom Theatre.” Desperate to make theatre during the pandemic, Mirin raids his son’s Lego stash and creates a series of appropriately tiny Hawaii Five-O sets. His parody of the hit 70’s crime series is an eco-justice drama called Hawaii Five-G. The pandemic Lego movie goes viral, bringing nations together to re-imagine a future where even Monsanto re-structures as a non-profit. When faced with impossible odds, can humor, love and pieces of interlocking plastic prevent catastrophe?

Tickets and more information.

AUDITIONS & OPPORTUNITIES
MAJESTIC THEATER ANNOUNCES JULY AUDITION SCHEDULE FOR 2021-2022 SEASON
Auditions for both Equity and non-Equity performers for roles in the upcoming 2021-2022 Season will be held in July according to Producing Director Danny Eaton.  This will be the 24th Season of performances since the Majestic was re-opened for live theater in March 1997.
 
Auditions will be held on the following dates:
 
Wednesday, July 21 – 6:00 p.m. – 10:30 p.m.
Thursday, July 22 – 6:00 p.m. – 10:30 p.m.
Friday, July 23 – 6:00 p.m. – 10:30 p.m.
Saturday, July 24 – 12:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
 
Non-Equity performers will need to schedule their in-person auditions at the Majestic during those times.  To book an audition time, performers must call the theater at (413) 747-7797.
 
Equity performers are required to audition via video submission to be sent to dannye@majestictheater.com by July 15.  For more information about the video submission, please visit www.actorsequity.org  Callbacks will be conducted in-person at the theater.
 
Actors will be auditioned for parts in the following productions: “Don’t Dress for Dinner” (comedy) which runs October 28 – December 5, 2021, “Betty & The Patch” (contemporary comedy/drama) which runs January 6 – February 13, 2022, and “Blithe Spirit” (comedy) which runs February 24 – April 3, 2022.
 
Non-Equity performers new to the Majestic should prepare a brief monologue of their choice, and bring a picture and resume.  They will also be asked to read from prepared script selections. 
 
People auditioning and performing at the Majestic must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19.  
 
The Majestic endured a temporary closing beginning in March 2020 in response to the pandemic.  The theater will re-open on August 7 and present the remaining dates of “The Pitch,” the drama that was mid-run when the theater closed. 
Silverthorne Theater Company, Greenfield, MA, is seeking a stage manager for their fall 2021 production, Charles Ludlam's The Mystery of Irma Vep - the classic quick-change parody of Gothic horror and monster movies, directed by Chris Rohmann.
  • Rehearsals begin the last week of August - mostly three rehearsals per week until late September - opening on October 1st for three weekends at the Hawks & Reed Performing Arts Center in Greenfield. 
  • Responsibilities include facilitating rehearsals and production meetings; keeping book; maintaining schedules, contact lists & other materials; maintaining communications among cast and crew; and overseeing tech rehearsals and performances.
  • There is a stipend of $750 for the position.
Contact Chris with interest and/or questionsSkyscraper@crocker.com or 413-532-5321.
Model Needed for Children's Book

Two Views Kids is a new book publishing venture concentrating on philosophy for children. The book we’re currently working on is called Mattie and Rabbit and we’re looking for a Mattie character to use as a model. Here is the website, it’s not yet live: http://twoviewskids.joannepinatel.com/
 
Mattie is a gardener and needs to be about 7 and willing to pose in the garden, digging, pruning, etc. We need an image of her happy and jumping, funny pictures of her bored and waiting for spring, hanging upside-down on the couch, maybe drooping over the arm in a funny way, maybe cross-legged reading a book. We will need her shoe size so we can provide pink boots. She will need a winter/spring coat for some shots and a wide brimmed hat for others. If she doesn’t have a hat we can supply it. Some pictures will be in front of a green screen some outside or with props like a wheelbarrow, rake, etc.
 
We are looking for a budding young actress that would be interested in this project. She can be of any ethnicity but not much older than 7 or a petite 8 or 9 that could pass for 7. The photographs will be processed in photoshop to look like illustrations.
 
Philip Doyle is the photographer. Mattie’s parent(s) will be required on site to sign a release and the shoot shouldn’t take longer than 2 hours.
 
Among other things, Phil takes pictures for Mass Audubon, Arcadia Day Camp at Arcadia Wildlife Sanctuary and Jericho in Holyoke. They will be happy to supply a reference. If you’d like to see some of his work go here: https://www.thelazyexplorer.com/
 
The model and parents can keep any pictures from the shoot and we can also provide family or individual portraits at a time/place that is convenient for them if interested. We’re all fully vaccinated but will wear masks. We are based out of Easthampton and have lived here for 20 years.

If you are interested, email a picture of ‘Mattie’ to joanne@joannepinatel.com and she will get back to you.
Thank you.

Academy of Music Theatre is hiring a Technical Director

Description:

The Technical Director (TD) has the daily responsibility for the theatrical technical operations of the Academy, 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:

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 résumé, letter of interest and 3 letters of recommendation to Executive Director Debra J'Anthony at djanthony@aomtheatre.com.
Apply by:
August 20, 2021
Salary:
$54,000
WORKSHOPS & CLASSES
Hampshire Shakespeare Company
presents
Summer Theater Workshop
August 2-6 starting at 9am
Online & Williston

In this half day program students will learn age-appropriate storytelling and performance skills from home for the first few days, and work together to present on Friday. Come practice acting, public speaking, empathy, creative writing, prop making, costume designing, resiliency, and play (just to name a few!) with us.

More information
Hampshire Shakespeare Company presents
Young Company Two Day Workshop

August 12 and 13, 10 am - 4pm
Williston Northampton School

Two day theater lab exploring Shakespeare's Macbeth led by Hannah Simms and Adam Lee Secor.
Ages 13-18, no experience needed.
Performance for invited audience at end.
This is an outdoor event.

https://forms.gle/SQNKR4qLrikgTwXeA
Submit your workshop, class, audition, performance, or any other theatre opportunity here!
Pioneer Valley Theatre Companies
Academy of Music Theatre

Arena Civic Theatre

A.C.T. Youth Theatre

Black Cat Theater

Chester Theatre Company

CitySpace

Cold Spring Community Theatre

Completely Ridiculous Productions

Drama Studio

Double Edge Theatre

Eggtooth Productions

Exit 7 Players

Ghost Light Theater

Greenfield Community College's Theater Department

Hampshire Shakespeare Company

Happier Valley Comedy

Hawks and Reed Performing Arts Center

Ja'Duke Center for the Performing Arts

K and E Theater Group

Ko Theater Works/Ko Festival of Performance

Majestic Theater

No Theater
Northampton Community Arts Trust

Northampton Playwrights Lab

PaintBox Theatre

Panopera

Pauline Productions

Performance Project

Phantom Sheep Players

Play Incubation Collective

Real Live Theatre

Red Thread Theater

Royal Frog Ballet

Serious Play Theatre Ensemble

Shakespeare Stage

Shea Theater Arts Center

Silverthorne Theater

Smith College Department of Theatre

St. Michael's Players

Starlight's Youth Theatre, Inc.

Strident Theatre

TheatreTruck

Turbulent Times Theater

UMass Department of Theater

UMass Theatre Guild

Unity House Players

Valley Light Opera

Ware Community Theatre

Westfield Theatre Group

Wilbraham United Players
Want to know even more about events in the Pioneer Valley and beyond,
including reviews, interviews, and previews?
Pioneer Valley Theatre Google Calendar
In the Spotlight, Inc.

Berkshire on Stage
Stagestruck
ArtsBeat TV/Radio and News Column
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