Pioneer Vally Theatre News August 19, 2021

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Pioneer Valley Theatre Newsletter View this email in your browser August 19 - September 8, 2021 The show I worked on last weekend can be seen virtually next week - check it out at playincubation.org. And there are still a few live events you can catch this week - The Pitch at the Majestic or Young Frankenstein at Ja'Duke! Stay safe out there everyone. Get vaccinated so we can have a fall full of live theatre! The next issue will include events from August 26 - September 15. 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 Starlight's Youth Theatre's fall classes will start September 4th.   All classes will be held at Maple Ridge Community Center, Sunderland.  To register please go to https://www.starlights-youth-theatre.com/register-portal/      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 How to Create an Actively Inclusive Theatre Course by David Valdes From the article:  We are in a time of upheaval. One of the effects of the George Floyd protests of 2020 was to lay bare how thoroughly white dominance is embedded in our culture and how that pattern must be broken. This led to long-overdue reckonings at many educational institutions that (unwittingly or not) have contributed to racism by mirroring white power structures, holding up Europe as the model for all things, and inherently endorsing the patriarchy in syllabi that have remained little-changed across the decades. Have you read an interesting article about theatre recently? Send it to me! pioneervalleytheatre@gmail.com LIVE PERFORMANCES The Majestic Theater  Majestic re-opening; completing run of the play “The Pitch” by Stan Freeman  The Majestic Theater, 131 Elm Street, West Springfield, MA. 413.747.7797   NOTES:  The Majestic Theater temporarily closed in March 2020 in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.  At the time it was in the middle of a six-week run of the play “The Pitch.”  After 17 months, the theater will re-open on Saturday, August 7 and present the remaining three-week run of the play for ticket holders who were unable to see it.  The run concludes on August 29.    “The Pitch” tells the story of retired sportswriter Roger Pennell who reluctantly agrees to collaborate with a young reporter, Mike Resnick, on the biography of a boyhood friend of Roger's.  That friend, Vernon Peters, was a pitcher who had been languishing on a farm team for the Yankees, but finally got the call that brought him to the mound at Yankee Stadium.  Peters threw only one pitch that day, and his career in the Major Leagues abruptly ended.  In digging into the story, the young writer discovers a secret at the heart of it all, a secret the older writer fiercely intends to protect.   The play was written by Pioneer Valley-based writer Stan Freeman, who was a former reporter for The Republican/Masslive.com   Ticket for the play range from $24-$31 and are now available by calling or visiting the box office at (413) 747-7797. Ja'Duke presents Young Frankenstein Friday, Aug 20, 2021 at 7:00  PM  Saturday, Aug 21, 2021 at 7:00 PM Sunday, Aug 22 2021 at 2:00 PM Ja'Duke Theater, 110 Industrial Blvd., Turners Falls, MA 01376 Ja'Duke is Puttin’ On The Ritz at the Ja’Duke Theater On August 14, 15, 20, 21, 22, 2021 Ja’Duke will present its production of the Mel Brooks musical Young Frankenstein, the horror-comedy tunefest based on the uproariously funny 1974 Mel Brooks film Young Frankenstein. This hilarious adaptation features the music and lyrics of Mel Brooks and Thomas Meehan. Young Frankenstein tells the story of Dr. Frederick Frankenstein (played by Justin Begin), a professor at a medical school who leaves behind his fiancée Elizabeth (Jessica Thompson) and travels to Transylvania to claim the estate of his grandfather – the creator of the famous Frankenstein monster. After years spent rejecting his family name, the doctor is helped by the castle’s current residents – Frau Blucher (Juniper Holmes), Igor (William LaPlante), and Inga (Samantha Myburgh) — in bringing his own monster (BJ Kulp) to life, with hilarious and unexpected results. This Ja’Duke production features a cast of 40 in singing, dancing, and acting roles. It is directed by Ja’Duke’s Founder Nick Waynelovich with Choreography by Eula Sagan and additional direction by Jessica Thompson. Director Nick Waynelovich thought it was very important that the first show opening at the the Ja’Duke Theater post Covid 19 be a funny, forget-your-troubles comedy. Proving to be not only funny but laugh-a-minute hilarious, Young Frankenstein will easily score a 10 plus on the laugh scale! Please join us at the Ja’Duke Theater for an evening of uproarious fun and frivolity. Young Frankenstein is rated PG13. Performance dates are: Saturday, Aug 14, 2021 at 7:00 PM Sunday, Aug 15, 2021 at 2:00 PM Friday, Aug 20, 2021 at 7:00 PM Saturday, Aug 21, 2021 at 7:00 PM Sunday, Aug 22 2021 at 2:00 PM Tickets are: Children 12 & under $12.00 Senior Citizen 65 and up $12.00 General Admission $16.00 To purchase tickets online please visit: www.jaduketheater.com https://www.eventtickets2u.com/jaduke-theater/young-frankenstein Eggtooth Productions is pleased to announce their first full scale, in-person production on September 10 and 11, 2021 at 7:30 pm at the Shea Theater in Turners Falls, MA. The Drag Sisters: Back Where We Belong is a glittery, fun-filled, musical extravaganza where the musical magic of Etta James meets Dolly Parton meets Lou Reed meets Sia fully glammed and busting dance moves, not to mention extra dry martinis. Tickets are $20 at https://sheatheater.org/ The show features Joe Dulude, II as the ever fabulous Mr. Drag with Jane Williams of New Salem and Myka Plunkett from Northampton as his gloriously bungling yet dazzling sisters, all of whom are kept in check by an Alexa-like creature played by Linda Tardif of Turners Falls. Emily Pritchett of Amherst tries very hard to clean up after them all.  Said Mr. Drag, "The Drag Sisters are back! That’s right! Join the Drag Sisters as they officially put down their martinis (for a moment to fix their wigs…I mean hair) and open up the Shea Theatre for performances again! The Drag Sisters: Back Where We Belong reunites some of your favorite members of the Drag Family with stories, song and maybe a surprise or two. Join us for a night of fun, frivolity and of course cocktails. Cheers!" Linda McInerney, producer and artistic director of Eggtooth Productions said, "We are thrilled to welcome Mr. Drag et al back to the stage after far too long in a far too weird time and this reunion gives us all the chance to be together safely and joyfully. I can't think of a better way to experience collective delight and laughter than with this ridiculously motley crew. We can't wait to greet you and show you to your seat." VIRTUAL PERFORMANCES Virtual Tickets We had two wonderful, warm, and engaging audiences for our Piedmont Plays Project live and in-person showings on August 14th and 15th in the Parking Lot of Northampton Center for the Arts on 33 Hawley Street in Northampton, MA. We are making a recording of this event available to virtual audiences for a limited time, including both evening's post-show dialogues. The recording will become available on Sunday, August 22nd and will be viewable through the following Sunday August 29th. Tickets will continue to be available until the link goes live on August 22nd. Tickets $5.00. PlayIncubation.org AUDITIONS & OPPORTUNITIES 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 Drama Studio is hiring an Administrative Assistant Description: The Drama Studio is now accepting applications for an Administrative Assistant to join our team! This is a multifaceted role that requires excellent communication and computer skills, strong attention to detail, and the ability to work in a fast-paced, customer service-oriented environment. Experience in any of the following is preferred: social media management, use of Canva and Constant Contact, database management, ticketing management for a live event.   Duties and responsibilities include: Serve as the front-line staff member for the studio. Responsibilities include front office reception and clerical duties, greeting guests, managing phone and email requests, handling inquiries, checking in and dismissing students for classes, performances & events, supervising the lobby as visitors come and go. Receive & accurately record tuition payments, donations, ticket sales, etc.  Other projects may include mailing preparation, filing, internet research, word processing, and supply stocking. Serve as communication liaison among staff members, parents, students, external vendors & other members of the community. Excellent facilitation of communication is necessary in this role. In conjunction with Program Assistants, manage social media content including posting and interacting with members of our community on Facebook, Instagram, Flickr, and Twitter. Upload & share photos from performances, arrange studio bulletin boards. Work in conjunction with our website manager to ensure that information on our website is accurate, up to date, and accessible. Use Canva to design graphics for productions and marketing campaigns. Use Constant Contact and GMail for communications with the Drama Studio community. Place advertisements with community publications and mailing lists. Create and maintain events in online ticketing system, including generating reports of audience attendance and ticket sales   Qualifications: Proficient with Google Suite and Microsoft Office Suite Ability to prioritize & facilitate projects from multiple supervisors. Strong attention to detail and problem-solving skills. Exceptional customer service skills and comfort interacting with youth, parents, and other members of the community. Ability to follow direction as well as work independently and as part of a team. Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Ability to work sensitively and inclusively with diverse groups. Salary/Schedule 20 hours per week, to be set on weekdays during after school hours (2-8pm). Additional assistance during production weekends or special events may be requested. $17 - 20 per hour commensurate with experience and qualifications.   To Apply Go to rebrand.ly/dshire to apply via Indeed Are you Ariel? King Triton? Or maybe Ursula or Prince Eric? Yes, Amherst Community Theater is bringing Disney's The Little Mermaid, coming in January 2022! Auditions are September 24, 25, and 26, and appointments are now open!  A hauntingly beautiful love story for the ages, this timeless fable will capture your heart with its irresistible songs, lavish sets and costumes, and a full live orchestra. Enthusiastic audiences will fill the 600-seat UMass Bowker Auditorium for 9 performances in January, 2022. Actors, singers, and dancers ages 7-107 are encouraged to audition. We want  YOU to find your place under the sea!  INCLUSIVE CASTING. For an audition appointment,  call Amherst Recreation at 413-259-3065.   For more info about auditions, including character descriptions and audition music and readings, visit www.amherstacts.org  WORKSHOPS & CLASSES Contact person- Cynthia Strycharz    Company- Starlight's Youth Theatre Starlights.yt@gmail.com Starlight's Youth Theatre accepting registration for Fall Acting Classes  Intro to Theater – This class is for the first or second term student who loves to use their imagination creating their own plays. Working with the theme of being unique and special we will create different scenes which will come together in their original play “The Unicorns”. Grades 1-3     Saturdays 9:00-9:45   Sept. 4- Oct. 23 Show at Eric Carle   Fee- $125.00 Actor’s Toolbox-  Once the student actor has some experience on stage, they need to fill their tool box with skills such as: how to develop a character, how does that character walks, talks, thinks and feels. During classes students will use these tools to create and then perform in their original adaption of  “Alice In Wonderland”.Grades 3-5    Saturdays 10:00-10:45   Sept. 4-  Oct. 23  Show at Eric Carle    Fee- $125.00   Play Production–This class will focus on character development and the decisions the actor makes to bring their character to life.  The cast will be involved in multiple areas of the production such as costumes, props and set design and painting.  They will be presenting “Fight for the Right”, a play about Susan B. Anthony’s journey to achieve the vote for woman.Grades 6-8:  Saturday 11:00-12:00  Beginning Sept. 4- till show Nov. 6  at Northampton Center of the Arts Fee      $140.00  Lights Up   With a focus on the performance the students will learn about timing, pace and finding moments within the play as they use these new skills to present their original play “The Story of Dr. Dolittle”.  This play will be recreated by the students themselves as they work to develop the story in “you finish it scenes” during class.Grades 3-5th   Mondays 4:00-4:45  Beginning Sept. 13- till show Nov. 6 at Northampton Center of the Arts    Fee-  $140.00  Sherlock Holmes and Dr. WatsonSherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson are looking for your help to solve their new mystery.  Come join the fun and cast while they not only rely on each other to help solve this mystery, but also the audience as they engage them in finding the clues to solve this very funny mystery.  Grades 6-8   Mondays 5:00-6:00   Beginning Sept 13 till show Nov. 1 at Maple Ridge                Fee $145.00 All classes will be held at Maple Ridge Community Center, Sunderland.  To register please go to https://www.starlights-youth-theatre.com/register-portal/    Double Edge Theatre Fall Intensive: October 8-11 We’ll work daily from morning until night, both in Double Edge’s indoor training spaces and outside in the fields, hills, pond and pastures of the Farm. Layering our physical training practice with music, design, dramaturgy, large object work and individual and group research, intensives are a full-body experience of our multidisciplinary creative process. The intensives are open to participants of all levels of experience and are ideal for pushing the boundaries of your physicality, creativity, and imagination! We are continuing to follow MA State Guidelines regarding COVID-19 precautions and safety. Please contact us if you have any questions about our protocols and procedures. To learn more and apply, visit our website here and/or contact Travis Coe at training@doubleedgetheatre.org Apply Today!  Submit your workshop, class, audition, performance, or any other theatre opportunity here! Pioneer Valley Theatre Companies Academy of Music Theatre Amherst Community Theater 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 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|*