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Theatre Arlington’s Cabaret: A Second Look
Theatre Arlington’s Cabaret: A Second Look
Having the privilege to write about DFW theater is one of the greatest joys in my life. That being said, it is also something I agonize over and take very seriously. I am always afraid I have overlooked someone or missed an important point in a play or musical. I wish I had the chance to see every production twice before writing about it, but most shows have such short runs that it would be impossible and also expensive.
However, I was so impressed with Theatre Arlington’s staging of the 1966 Cabaret , I had to go back for a second look. This is such a dazzling and important musical that it deserves every bit of praise I gave it initially. Observing it a second time made me appreciate it even more and I want to give additonal kudos to the following:
Lori Woods’ Choreography - All those intricate steps performed with precision by the actors and those amazing KIt Kat Girls are marvelous.
Vonda K Bowling and the Band - OMG. The sound is big and brassy and then soft and stirring. And those discordant notes as the story spirals toward tragedy are perfection. Even though we can only glimpse the band, it is very much a character here.
Deborah Brown as Fraulein Schneider. That gorgeous voice and that warm presence is even more impressive the second time. Brava!
Micah JL Brooks as Cliff Bradshaw. There is something almost cinematic about his performance. Those matinee idol looks aside, this man knows how to bring depth to character. Cliff goes from charmingly playful to scarily serious and Brooks’ every word rings true. And, of course, there’s THAT VOICE.
Presley Duyck as Sally Bowles. We all know that Presley is magic on stage, but when she visits the dark side as she does singing the title number, it’s black magic. Her breakdown is so visceral and so compelling that I started to call 9-1-1
Seth Paden as Emcee. This malevolent master of ceremonies is unlike any I have seen before. He is literally everything, everywhere, all at once. Devilishly appealing, he is a singing and dancing nefarious, wicked wonder. He is Alice Cooper’s more talented, enticingly handsome love child welcoming us to the nightmare.
It all works so well in Theatre Arlington’s Cabaret. See it before it closes this Sunday, March 3.
Unforgettable cast in an unforgettable musical.
Prism Movement Theater Free Sword Workshop & Stage Reading
FREE SWORD WORKSHOP AND STAGE READING!
We're giving you a free teaser before we bring this show to AT&T Performing Arts Center in the summer!
La Maupin: The French Abomination
1.26.24. | Latino Cultural Center | 6-9 PM
-6-7pm: We will have a free sword fighting class
-7- 8pm: We will have a reading of the newest draft of La Maupin featuring live performances from some members of the world premiere cast
-8-9pm: We will have a talk back with the audience about the play and a small reception
PLOT:
La Maupin is a tale of love and tragedy set in 18th century France all wrapped up in a high octane Punk Rock Vanity Fair package. Based on the true story of Julie D’Aubigny, bisexual duelist and opera singer who was famous for dueling men and wooing their women. Through a beautiful mix of sword fighting and dance, the show details her almost too incredible to believe exploits (like the time she burned down a nunnery to escape with her lover, or the time she fought 3 men at once- and won!) While exploring the Julie’s journey to find happiness and acceptance as a queer woman way ahead of her time.
Content Warning: Adult themes, sexual content, simulated violence, frank depiction of suicidal ideation.
2023 What a Year for Talent!
In Part 2 of my year end column, I salute the outstanding performers I saw for the first time in 2023. You all make the magic look easy and bring happiness to so many. Whether you are a stage veteran that I’ve missed until 2023 or new to performing, you are outstanding. DFW is lucky to have you on our stages.
Maxton Sims in Lyric Stage’s Evita, Soul Rep’s What Fits Inside a Human Heart, and Casa Manana’s Best Christmas Pageant Ever
Christian Thrailkill in NTPA’s Evita and GPAC’s Hunchback of Notre Dame.
Alana Fabio in Theatre Frisco’s Side by Side by Sondheim
Tilda Grace in The Firehouse Theatre’s Hello, Dolly! and Theatre Arlington’s Gypsy
Kenne Earl in Arts Mission Oak Cliff’s Cabaret
Emily Frerich in The Firehouse Theatre’s Newsies
Max Morgan in The Firehouse Theatre’s Newsies and Hello, Dolly!
Tyler Halbrooks in The Firehouse Theatre’s Newsies and LCT’s Sweeney Todd
Ed Escamilla in The Firehouse Theatre’s Saturday Night Fever, Lyric Stage’s Cinderella, and The Watering Hole Collective’s Spring Awakening
Taylor D. Williams in The Firehouse Theatre’s Newsies
Galileo Segura in The Firehouse Theatre’s Newsies
Reggie Dunlap in Theatre Arlington’s Superior Donuts
Donovan Marie Lawson in Theatre Arlington’s Fly by Night, Runway’s Disaster. and WaterTower’s Chaplin
Billy Betsill in Theatre Arlington’s Fly by Night
Landry Beckley in Theatre Arlington’s Fly by Night, Gypsy, and Avenue Q, Runway’s Disaster, and Theatre Frisco’s Pippin
Vee India in Theatre Frisco’s Pippin
Briana Berk in MainStage’s Dirty Rotten Scoundrels and Runway’s Disaster
Teresa Natera in Theatre Frisco’s Pippin
Cam Hayes in MainStage’s Dirty Rotten Scoundrels and Theatre Frisco’s Pippin
Sinan Beskok in Rover DramaWerks Lobby Hero and Plague Mask Players Romeo and Juliet
Brady Beckley in Outcry’s Let the Right One In
JM Knighten in Garland Civic’s A Few Good Men
Ben Ashcraft in Lyric Stage’s Great American Trailer Park Musical
John Marshall in MainStage’s Tigers Be Still
Wendi Evetts in MainStage’s Tigers Be Still
Brentom Jackson in MainStage’s Intimate Apparel
Mann Turner in Rover Dramawerk’s Lobby Hero
Breana Deanda in GPAC’s Hunchback of Notre Dame
Jacob Rivera-Sanchez in GPAC’s Hunchback of Notre Dame
Nathan Rubens in GPAC’s The SpongeBob Musical and Hopeful Theatre Project’s Addams Family
Georgia Fender in The Firehouse Theatre’s Addams Family and Casa Manana’s Best Christmas Pageant Ever
Andrew Cave in Upright Theatre Co’s Sweeney Todd
Jonah Taylor in The Watering Hole Collective’s Spring Awakening
Tyler “T” Lang in Echo Theatre’s I and You
Steven Rios in RCT’s Ghost the Musical
Caleb De La Torre in Theatre Arlington’s Gypsy
Avery Bishop in The Firehouse Theatre’s Saturday Night Fever
Hope Jimenez in GPAC’s The SpongeBob Musical
Sarah Rutan in Theatre Three’s Deathtrap
Blake Hametner in The Firehouse Theatre’s Miracle on 34th Street
Aiden Valentine in Theatre Three’s Next to Normal
Emma Gervasi in The Firehouse Theatre’s Saturday Night Fever
Lilee Gifford in GPAC’s The SpongeBob Musical and Hopeful Theatre Project’s Addams Family
Audrey Reidling in ACT’s White Christmas
Shaun Willow Breland in NTPA’s Pippin
Kylie Stewart in WaterTower’s Chaplin
Jocelyn Hansen in WaterTower’s Goin’ Hollywood
2023 What a Year for DFW Theater!
It is always difficult to list my favorite theater experiences. i saw 68 productions and I’m always afraid I will leave out something or someone who brought me joy. I appreciate being a part of the DFW theater community so much and would like to celebrate all of you. Here’s to more great theater in 2024!
My Unforgettable Theater Experiences of 2023
January
Cabaret - Arts Mission Oak Cliff gave the classic gritty immediacy in a sexy, submersive production.
Sunday in the Park with George - Outcry Theatre made Sondheim soar with a cast of talented teens.
Ada and the Engine - MainStage Irving-Las Colinas first rate production of the Lauren Gunderson play about the “Mother of Computer Science” Ada Byron Lovelace
February
Spamalot - The Firehouse Theatre’s fun and fresh romp with those terrifying killer rabbits.
Romeo and Juliet - The Plague Mask Players gave the bard a twist with AARP star-crossed lovers.
Aida - Lyric Stage wowed me with this one with the incredible Rachel Nicole Poole in the title role.
Man Cave - Kitchen Dog delivered the chills along with the social commentary in John J. Caswell, Jr.’s provocative thriller.
Gypsy - Theatre Arlington entertained us with a cast made in musical theater heaven.
March
Silver Foxes - Uptown Players honest, funny, and moving look at the problems of aging gay males.
Guys and Dolls - Moondance Theatre made my first time seeing this show a thrill with the marvelous Christian Black as Sky Masterson and the equally marvelous Christine Hand Jones as Sarah Brown.
The Sponge Bob Musical - GPAC made this a most excellent trip to Bikini Bottom.
Disaster - Runway Theatre’s hilarious dream of a cast sends up of those 70’s disaster films.
Evita - NTPA had me crying for Argentina. (tears of joy)
April
Hello, Dolly! - The Firehouse Theatre let everyone know that the Queen of the Harmonia Gardens is the incomparable Stacia Goad-Malone.
Into the Woods - DTC’s first ever Sondheim was…enchanting.
May
Saturday Night Fever - The Firehouse Theatre turns a Broadway clunker into a disco delight.
June
I and You - Echo Theatre’s brilliant production of Lauren Gunderson’s play was an unexpected treat.
Next to Normal - Theatre Three gave this musical a searingly powerful staging with a stellar cast.
Lobby Hero - Rover Dramawerks made me glad I held out for this Hero.
The Last Flapper - Belle Sauvage presented Catherine D. DuBord in a tour de force solo performance as Zelda Fitzgerald.
Fly by Night - Theatre Arlington caught me completely off guard with this little known musical. I literally had to bite my lip to keep from sobbing…both times.
July
Spring Awakening - The Watering Hole Collective’s initial production staged in an intimate venue gave the musical a visceral quality.
Goin’ Hollywood - The WaterTower Theatre’s world premiere of this time traveling musical love story was given a full-scale production with some of DFW’s finest on the boards.
Newsies - The Firehouse Theatre’s singing, dancing newsboys won me over.
Pippin - Theatre Frisco had “magic to do” and they did it.
August
Let the Right One In - Outcry Theatre’s vampire saga brought chills to a hot summer day and I am still trying to get over the blood effects that Isa Flores engineered.
Tigers Be Still - MainStage Irving-Las Colinas comedic tale of two dysfunctional families was the last production of Bruce Coleman and a tribute to his artistry.
Cinderella - Lyric Stage brought back Aida star Rachel Nicole Poole as Cinderella in this glorious production.
Avenue Q - Theatre Arlington’s bawdy laugh fest with naughty puppets was great fun.
September
The Great American Trailer Park Musical - Lyric Stage’s first production in their new space featured four of DFW’s most spectacular musical divas and an excellent supporting cast.
The Addams Family - The Firehouse Theatre had a big ghoulish hit with this one.
The Rocky Horror Show - DTC’s wildly entertaining trip was an “absolute pleasure.”
October
Lizzie the Musical - Theatre Three’s bloody good show with the phenomenal Presley Duyck as the axe wielding rocker.
Sweeney Todd - Upright Theatre Company’s creepily intimate production brought Sondheim’s murderous duo up close and personal.
Little Shop of Horrors - Lyric Stage’s Little Shop was packed with Big Talent.
Othello - Bishop Arts Theatre Center’s production of Franky Gonzalez’s retelling of Shakespeare’s play featured the amazing Denise Lee in a gender bending take on the tragedy.
November
Chaplin - WaterTower Theatre’s big production featured an unforgettable performance by Max J. Swarner in the title role.
Scrooge in Rouge - Theatre Too at Theatre Three’s English Music Hall style comedy was the most fun I had at the theater this year.
December
Jada Bells - Uptown Players holiday offering written and directed by B. J. Cleveland and starring Lee Walter. One of this season’s best gifts.
Deathtrap - Theatre Three ended the year with this perfectly cast, directed, and staged comic thriller.
Live VO Experience With Shawn Gann
Shawn Gann VO Experience!
ONLY 9 SPOTS ARE AVAILABLE FOR SALE!
A group of local voiceover talents will be brought together in a booth to mock audition, get cast, receive direction, and record in real-time a VO group scene with Shawn Gann and an industry professional engineer. After the session, participants will be sent the final cut of the audio to use for their VO reels.
Must be local to DFW and have reliable transportation to and from class. 18+ years only.
YOU ASKED, WE ANSWERED! Led by the incredibly experienced Shawn Gann, these individual sessions will provide you with invaluable insight.
Ever wanted to learn how to perform like the pros at Crunchyroll? This is your chance. Did we mention Shawn just got hired to ADR there too? (Don't forget to read below to see his IMPRESSIVE bio. Let's just say if you watch anime, you've heard his voice.)
$400 per person (one scholarship available) | $50 Virtual Audit with Discussion Available.
Romeo & Juliet Virtual Reading (Book Ban Protest)
As a part of our Virtual Performance Series, we’re offering a free surprise event! Many districts in our state and country are working to ban or have already banned Shakespeare, particularly Romeo And Juliet, from classrooms.
In protest, we are performing and recording a traditionally cast Romeo & Juliet reading, starring DFW actors from across the metroplex. This recording will then be made publicly available for students, teachers, and anyone who would like to access the play.
Register to attend for free today or stream and share it later!
Plague Mask Players & Pegasus Theater Present “Taming of the Shrew”
Coming March 2024!
What happens when you take an antiquated Shakespearean play and give it a fun, 50s, feminist twist? Tune into 'The Taming of The Shrew' in 'Living Black and White'(TM)!
Coming March 2024, Plague Mask Players, in collaboration with Pegasus Theatre, Dallas, presents a sitcom-style style spin on this classic. More information coming soon! Follow us or join our email list to be the first in the know. This production will be produced as a part of AT&T Performing Arts Center Elevator Project.
Auditions coming late 2023
Prism Movement Theater: Kaleidoscope Summer Class (Ages 8-12)
Learn how to tell stories & perform using your whole body!
Through the Kaleidoscope summer camp, students will have a first hand chance to dive into Prism Movement Theaters unique storytelling process. In this three week intensive, students will learn about writing their own stories, dancing, clowning, mime, and safe stage combat from professional DFW artists. They will even work together with our experienced teachers to create their own original performance and present it to the public on August 4th for the Pleasant Grove Community. Don’t miss out on this exciting opportunity to learn a unique art form from a critically acclaimed physical theater company!
Riding Rainbows Child Development Center | Monday-Fridays from 9am - 2pm
1132 S Buckner Blvd, 7605 C F Hawn Fwy, Dallas, TX 75217
Contact The Riding Rainbows Child Development Center to register
Plague Mask Players Cloak & Sword Workshop
DFW's best stage combat choreographers, Modus Martial Arts, are back with a NEW and UNIQUE combat workshop: Cloak & Sword. (That's right, the geniuses behind our Romeo & Juliet choreography who have also worked with Dallas Theater Center, Fort Worth Opera, and more)
Cloak and Sword combat can be applied to stage and film: Vikings, knights, gladiators, and more can wield a sword and cape. Bring your ACOTAR, Lord of the Rings, and Jedi dreams to life on stage.
Maybe you want to boost your resume or maybe you just wanna boost your Ren Faire game. Either way this workshop is going to be EPIC.
This workshop will teach you how to make acting choices that incorporate wearable props and weaponry, cover a two-person fight sequence that will be filmed and given to you (for free), and some new sword skills like striking!
Odds are, you've never gotten to learn anything like this, so join us for this affordable and fantastical workshop.
(Cloaks and swords provided)
Ages: High School-Adult
Prism Movement Theater: Discover Puppets! (Ages 8-12)
Discover Puppets! (Ages 8-12)
Free Summer Class!
June 12- Aug 4 | 4pm- 5pm
Dive into the magical world of puppetry in this exciting 8-week-long workshop!
Students will have the opportunity to create and learn with a variety of puppets from all over the world. Kids will get to develop their creative skills as visual artists as they build their own characters. PLUS they can practice their public speaking, writing, and teamwork skills as they as they bring their puppets to life through stories and play. In the end, we'll even perform a puppet show to show off how much they have learned!
Walnut Hill Recreation Center on Tuesdays & Thursdays from 4:00 - 5:00 PM
Register by calling Walnut Hill Recreation Center: 214.670.7112 or email at judith.gasca@dallas.gov
Prism Movement Theater: Discover Puppetry! (Ages 11-16)
Discover Puppets! (Ages 11-16)
Free Summer Class!
June 12- Aug 3 | 10am - 11am
Dive into the magical world of puppetry in this exciting 8-week-long workshop!
Students will have the opportunity to create and learn with a variety of puppets from all over the world. Kids will get to develop their creative skills as visual artists as they build their own characters. PLUS they can practice their public speaking, writing, and teamwork skills as they as they bring their puppets to life through stories and play. At the end, we'll even perform a puppet show to show off how much they have learned!
Timberglen Recreation Center on Tuesdays & Thursdays
3810 Timberglen Rd, Dallas, TX, 75287
Register by calling Walnut Hill Recreation Center: 214.671.0644 or email at prism.movement.theater@gmail.com
Plague Mask Players RP Accent Workshop
Held Via Zoom
What We’ll Cover:
Definition and history of Received Pronunciation
Vocal Placement
Sound Substitutions
Practice and receive feedback from instructor
All skill levels welcome. Will be hosted via Zoom.
Plague Mask Players Rapier Workshop
Ever dreamed of taking steps to master classical dueling (á la Shakespeare, Cervantes, or Rostand) but too daunted by competitive fencing to start? Build a classical stage swordsmanship you can be proud of!
Stage swordsman Bobby Garcia of Modus Martial Arts will helm this course by sharpening participants’ rapport with Renaissance Rapiers. Errol Flynn, eat your heart out!
This class will culminate in a partner scene (both partners engaging in sword work)! We will then film and provide you with footage for free for your reel or as a token of souvenir!
Ages: High School-Adult
Cost: $50.00
Prism Movement Theater: African Mask Workshop
Join Renee Miche’al Jones in an exciting cultural journey in our upcoming African Mask Workshop. Over the course of three days. Participants will learn how to make traditionally inspired African masks, and learn about the culture and history behind these incredible works of art.
This workshop is made possible thanks to funding from the Office of Cultural Affairs CAP program.
Only 5 spots available! Participants must commit to all workshop days. It’s free!
Sunday in the Park with George
Outcry Youth Theatre
presents
Sunday in the Park with George
Book by James Lapine
Directed by Becca Johnson-Spinos
Music Directed by Cindy Johnston
Some brief thoughts on Sunday in the Park with George at Outcry Youth Theatre …or Paris and Addison are lovely this time of year.
Teenagers doing Sondheim and it’s not Into the Woods? It’s George! And, by George, they pulled it off.
I attended the Saturday matinee with the cast headed by the remarkable Brayden Lawrence as Seurat and the wonderful Ruby Allen as Dot. I have learned to expect excellence from Outcry productions and the cast of this George was more polished and professional than college productions I have seen.
The cast was beautifully costumed by Marisa Saenz and Melanie Stever and the projections and lighting by Jason Johnson-Spinos were outstanding. I was particularly impressed by Director Becca Johnson-Spinos’s use of space in the small venue and her precise choreography of the stage movement which is especially important in this musical. I also applaud the efforts of Music Director Cindy Johnston who got impressive vocals from both Lawrence and Allen in one of Sondheim’s most vocally challenging scores.
As I have stated before, I always forget that I am watching young people when I attend Outcry plays and musicals and this George was no exception. I was charmed, exhilarated, and moved by this cast who “put it together” delightfully.
2022 What a Year!
It is always difficult to list my favorite theater experiences. i saw 73 productions and I’m always afraid I will leave out something or someone who brought me joy. I appreciate being a part of the DFW theater community so much and would like to celebrate all of you. Here’s to more great theater in 2023!
My Unforgettable Theater Experiences of 2022
THE MUSICALS
Stede Bonnet A F*cking Pirate Musical at Theatre Three- Seeing this exciting new work from Nicole Neely and Clint Gilbert was the highlight of my year. Wonderful songs. Wonderful story. Wonderful staging.
Kinky Boots at Uptown Players - Pure theater euphoria
The SpongeBob Musical at NTPA - That exuberant young cast captured my heart (three times)
The Bridges of Madison County at WaterTower Theatre - That cast. That music. Three tissue experience.
Next to Normal at Upright Theatre Co - Next to perfect.
Cabaret at Grand Prairie Arts Council - a fresh look at a classic that brought out all the darkness of the era
Jesus Christ Superstar at WaterTower Theatre - Superbly staged and rethought
Heathers the Musical at NTPA - A thrilling cast brought their all to this disturbing musical
Catch Me If You Can at the Firehouse Theatre - Great direction and casting made this Broadway dud a winner
The Rocky Horror Show at Lyric Stage - Rowdy, bawdy, and I’m still time warping
Beauty and the Beast at the Firehouse Theatre - Disney downsized but elevated by a stellar cast and thoughtful direction.
42nd Street at Garland Summer Musicals- So polished. So professional. It could have toured.
The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee at Theatre Arlington - Saw the original. Enjoyed this much more. Laughter and tears.
Rent at NTPA - Gripping and raw and some powerhouse performances.
The Sound of Music at Dallas Theater Center - Beautifully staged and soaring vocals
THE PLAYS
Big Scary Animals at Theatre Three - Provocative and honest with many “uncomfortable” laughs
Trouble In Mind at Dallas Theater Center - A play about racism from the 1950’s with a message for today.
Clue at Dallas Theater Center - Terrific performances and staging made this farce gold.
Rage at The Elevator Project - Janelle Gray’s compelling and visceral play about the plight of Black Women both past and present.
Cat on a Hot Tin Roof at The Classics Theatre Project - A searing, sexy production that made me want a cigarette and I don’t smoke
Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf? at Theatre Three - This troubling evening with George and Martha filled with humor and despair was an emotional roller coaster.
The Little Dog Laughed at Uptown Players - A witty and engrossing tale of show biz with appealingly unethical characters.
Sherwood at Mainstage Irving-Las Colinas - Robin Hood with humor, romance, and adventure
The Picture of Dorian Gray at Outcry Youth Theatre - A totally enthralling revision of Wilde’s novel.
Between Riverside and Crazy at StageWest - a family comedy/drama with incredible staging and acting
This Weekend
There are so many wonderful shows to see this weekend in between shopping and baking. This is your last chance for many shows! Get out and support DFW theater. For information on any show listed click on the link below.
What's On DFW Center Stages Now — DFW Center Stage
To have your show listed please email info to dsturdivant252@gmail.com
Closing Shows
Beauty and the Beast - Firehouse Theatre
Head Over Heels - Uptown Players
Black Nativity - Bishop Arts Theatre Center
Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer Jr. - Upright Theatre Co
The Trial of Ebenezer Scrooge - The Core Theatre
Hooray for Holidays - Theatre Arlington
It Runs in the Family - Allen Contemporary Theatre
How I Learned to Drive - Sundown Collaborative Theatre
Continuing Shows
A Christmas Carol - Dallas Theater Center
Handle With Care - Stage West
Coming Soon
Travisville - Soul Rep Theatre Co (will reopen in January)
The Dimension of Death - Pegasus Theatre
I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change - Theatre Three
Head Over Heels
Uptown Players opens its 21st season with HEAD OVER HEELS
DALLAS, November 15, 2022 – The Uptown Players 2022/2023 season will open the bold newmusical comedy Head Over Heels, by Jeff Whitty and James McGruder, featuring the music of the Go-Go’s.
Head Over Heels is a jukebox musical adaptation of Sir Philip Sidney’s The Countess of Pembroke’s Arcadia, Head Over Heels incorporates the songs of the cultural phenomenon and revolutionary girl group The Go-Go’s into an empowering tribute to life’s fluid journey of love and self-discovery. By blending the aesthetics of Elizabethan England, 1980’s new wave, and contemporary queer culture, as well as disregarding restrictive, type-based characters and casting, this musical aims to celebrate the beauty in both the traditional and the unconventional in theatre and in life.
This laugh-out-loud love story is set to the music of the iconic 1980’s all-female rock band The Go-Go’s (2021 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Inductee), including the hit songs, “We Got the Beat,” “Our Lips Are Sealed,” “Vacation,” “Head Over Heels,” and Belinda Carlisle’s “Heaven is a Place on Earth” and “Mad About You.”
This production will be directed by Penny Ayn Maas, with music direction by Lee Harris and choreography by Evor Wright. The Uptown Players cast includes Tim Brawner, Kylee Brown, Brian Hathaway, Isaiah Christopher-Lord Harris, Laura Lites, Gena Loe, Canali Miller, Grace Moore, Michael Mossucco, Seth Paden, Caroline Rivera, Michael Russell, Kylie Stewart, Lee Walter, Kelsey Ward, Brett Warner, Evor Wright and Sarah Youngblood
The production is stage managed by Kathryn Demith. Rounding out the design team is scenic designer Dennis Canright, lighting designer Amanda West, hair/make up designer Michael B. Moore, properties designer Jane Quetin, and sound designer Brian Christensen. Original costume designs by Arianne Phillips, rented courtesy of Goodspeed Musicals Costume Collection, were adapted by Suzi Cranford and Breianna Barrington.
Head Over Heels runs for 11 performances from December 2 - 18, 2022, with shows at 8 p.m. on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, and 2 p.m. on Sunday. Performances take place at the Kalita Humphreys Theater, 3636 Turtle Creek Blvd (at Blackburn), Dallas, TX 75219. There will be an ASL interpreted performance on Sunday, December 4 th at 2pm. Ticket price run from $35 - $65 and can be purchased at uptownplayers.org . Student rush tickets available at door one hour before curtain.
About Uptown Players:
Uptown Players is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization, presenting plays and musicals that challenge audiences artistically and create greater positive public awareness and acceptance through the performing arts. The 2022-2023 season will be our twenty first season and our thirteenth season at the Kalita Humphreys Theater. Uptown Players is one of the leading regional theaters in the Dallas/Ft. Worth area and is providing an opportunity for a wide diversity of gender styles to come together and explore life choices through great theatre themes such as relationships, family, prejudice, and values. The response from the community and critics has been remarkable, including over 25 Leon Rabin Awards from the Dallas Theatre League, and over 30 Theater Critics Forum Awards. Uptown Players has also been named the best theatre company numerous times by the Dallas Voice Readers and by the Dallas Observer and has been featured in D Magazine and on WFAA’s Daybreak and Good Morning Texas programs.
Uptown Players has presented several world premieres, including A Very Sordid Wedding (2021), A Very Judy Christmas (2018), Gilligan’s Fire Island (2015), Redesigning Women (2013), Crazy Just Like Me (2011), and the stage adaptation of The Valley of the Dolls (2007). In addition, Uptown Players has produced the United States premieres of the West End hit musical Soho Cinders (2014), and the Pet Shop Boys Musical Closer to Heaven (2010). Uptown Players was the first regional theater in the United States to present the Tony Award Winner The Boy from Oz and the Tony Award and Pulitzer Prize winning musical Next to Normal, following the closing of the Broadway productions. Each season, Uptown Players presents several regional premieres. Past premieres include productions of Torch Song (2018), Fun Home, The Cake, The View Upstairs, Priscilla, Queen of the Desert; The Legend of Georgia McBride; It Shoulda Been You; End of the Rainbow; The Nance; Catch Me If You Can
Photo by Mike Morgan
JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR
WaterTower Theatre Announces
Cast & Creative Details for
JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR
Addison (TX) – WaterTower Theatre Producing Artistic Director Shane Peterman and Associate Producer Elizabeth Kensek are proud to announce casting and creative details for JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR, the blockbuster rock opera by Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber. This is the first production of WaterTower’s 27th Season.
In 1970, Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber released JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR as a concept double album. It became a massive global best-seller, which led to a hit Broadway show, and motion picture that became a global sensation. WaterTower Theatre is proud to be one of the first theatres in the nation to obtain the rights to produce JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR following the 50th Anniversary Tour production. Reflecting the rock roots that defined a generation, the legendary score includes ‘I Don’t Know How to Love Him’, ‘Gethsemane’ and ‘Superstar’. It will run on the Terry Martin Main Stage from November 30th through December 11th, 2022 at the Addison Theatre Centre. WaterTower’s production is led by director Natalie King, music director Cody Dry and choreographer Kelly McCain.
The first musical by Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice to be produced for the professional stage, JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR has wowed audiences for over 50 years. A timeless work, the rock opera is set against the backdrop of an extraordinary and universally known series of events but seen, unusually, through the eyes of Judas Iscariot. This hit rock opera has not been produced with an all-local cast & creative team in DFW in over 25 years! Loosely based on the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John, the show follows the last week of Jesus Christ’s life and told entirely through song, exploring the personal relationships and struggles between Jesus, Judas, Mary Magdalene, his disciples, his followers and the Roman Empire. WaterTower welcomes audiences to see this classic with a fresh perspective.
Director Natalie King, who most recently directed A RAISIN IN THE SUN at WaterTower in 2021, shared the following regarding her vision for the production:
“I am thrilled and honored to be directing the rock classic, JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR here at WaterTower Theatre. I am so grateful for Shane and Elizabeth’s focus on inclusion and their embrace of a broader scope of creative vision.
I was around 13 when I first heard Paul Nicholas wail “Gethsemane” on the original London 1972 album. As we all know, 13 is the age of rebellion which includes asking the question ‘Why?’ to everything your parents tell you. So, hearing Jesus question God in the garden of Gethsemane was a revelation to me. Like Jesus, I argued with my parents, but always ended up obeying. Am I Jesus like I thought? Can a Black girl in America be Jesus like? It made me see a commonality between the plight of Jesus and of a Black girl growing up in the South who was questioning her world. Despite our obvious
differences, there was an inner struggle that was the same. That made a lasting impression on me about the inner commonality between different human experiences. In my approach to JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR, I am seeking to move beyond the limitations of form to find the common humanity within. This is the perspective in which I cast the show. It is also the inspiration for the direction of the show. The story is the same. It is as ancient as time and as universal as human nature. It is the story of doubt that can bring down the freedom movement of an occupied people. It is the battle between fear and faith, something we all understand.
We have a great cast and I expect it to be a powerful performance. I hope you will all come experience this innovative and modern retelling of JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR.”
The production stars Feleceia Wilson as Jesus, Christopher J. Deaton as Judas, John Michael Marrs as Pilate, Caitlin Chapa as Mary Magdalene, Ellen Eberhart as Herod, Nikka Morton as Simon, Jason Hallman as Caiaphas, Anthony J. Ortega as Annas, Nijel Smith as Peter, and an ensemble of skilled singers, dancers and actors including Aren Hugo, Kevin Davis Jr., Mikki Hankins, Spencer Laboda, Johanna Nchekwube, Lisette Sandoval Perez, and Daniel Vanegas who will all portray apostles and many other characters.
The cast will be joined on stage by a live band led by Music Director, Conductor & pianist, Cody Dry, featuring Vonda K. Bowling (keyboard 2), Jesse Ramirez (guitar), Brittany Hart (bass), and Kami Lujan (drums).
The creative & production team includes Kennedy ‘Kae’ Styron as Set Designer, Megan A. Liles as Costume & Properties Designer, Aaron Johansen as Lighting Designer, Mark Howard as Sound Designer & Engineer, Dwight Sandell as Production Stage Manager, and Rebecca Bongiorno as Assistant Stage Manager.
The production has been approved by Actors Equity Association under their fully vaccinated safety protocols for indoor productions, ensuring the safety of both artists and patrons alike.
Contains adult situations. Recommended for ages 12 and above.
WaterTower Theatre’s 2022-2023 Season Sponsor is the Town of Addison.
Natalie King, Director
Natalie King is an accomplished actor, director, and teacher here in the Dallas Ft Worth area. After beginning her career as an actor, she fell in love with the art of storytelling. She created a performance company called Universal Connection which toured dozens of elementary schools in Dallas and Mesquite with Young Audiences.
Her gift for storytelling was noticed by a casting director at Walt Disney World. King became the first African American Storytelling character at Walt Disney World and one of the few performers of color as they experimented with the programming for Walt Disney World's newest park, the Animal Kingdom. After several months as a Storyteller, King was asked to create a storytelling show to be performed exclusively for Walt Disney World's American Express Gold Club Members.
When 9/11 gutted the tourist industry, King returned to Dallas to begin a journey into the field of arts education. To her surprise, she was good at it. The teaching job that was supposed to be a pit stop became a second career. She became the theatre director at South Oak Cliff High School and in 7 years transformed the SOC theatre department from vandalized sets and spontaneous fighting to award-winning one-acts and full-blown musicals. She is now the Theatre Director at Skyline High School.
King’s passion for teaching came naturally as she is a third-generation educator. Although her paternal great grandmother was a slave until she was thirteen years old and had no opportunity to get a formal education, three of her ten children became ministers or spiritual educators. King's maternal family members were mostly educators. Her grandmother Laura earned three degrees and taught during the 1930s and 1940s, and her mother, Gloria King, earned three degrees and began her career as an English Teacher in an all-white school in the 1960s. King's aunt, Dr. Evelyn E. Thornton, was head of the Math Dept. at the historically Black, Prairie View A&M University for fifty years. There was no escaping the fact that the art of teaching was in her blood.
King, however, never stopped performing and directing, even while running a High School theatre program. King believes that there is no better way to speak your truth than the theatre and feels blessed to do what she loves.
King graduated from the Theater Cluster at Booker T. Washington High School for the Performing and Visual Arts. She continued her education at Stephens College in Columbia, MO, where she earned a BFA in Theater Performance and a minor in Playwriting. In addition to a rich career as an actor, storyteller, and teacher, King's work as a director has been seen on DFW stages such as the South Dallas Cultural Center, Deep Ellum, Soul Rep, Theatre Arlington, and Circle Theatre in Ft Worth.
Show Run Dates: November 30- December 11, 2022
Single tickets are on sale now.
This production will be staged on the Terry Martin Main Stage at the Addison Theatre Centre at 15650 Addison Road, Addison, Texas 75001.
For more information on WaterTower Theatre and upcoming productions, visit us online at www.watertowertheatre.org or call the Box Office at 972.450.6232.
2022-2023 Season Performance Schedule:
Performance Days Times
Wednesday 7:30 PM
Thursday 7:30 PM
Friday 8:00 PM
Saturday 2:00 PM
Saturday 8:00 PM
Sunday 2:00 PM
• Pay-What-You-Can performances will be the first Saturday matinee of each run.
• ASL Interpreted Performances will continue to be the final Thursday performance of every run.
• Sunday matinees feature Intersections events immediately following the show, providing audiences a chance to learn more from the cast & special guest panelists.
Ticket Prices:
Single Tickets - $43
*Student, Industry, and HERO (Veterans, active-duty service personnel, and educator) discounts available
*Subscribers may purchase additional individual tickets at a discount as well.
*Group discounts are available through the box office.
How/Where to Buy Tickets:
Online: www.watertowertheatre.org
By Phone: 972.450.6232
Or In-person:
WaterTower Theatre at the Addison Theatre Centre
15650 Addison Road, Addison, TX 75001
Fax: 972.450.6244
Email: boxoffice@watertowertheatre.org
Box Office Hours
Monday-Friday Noon - 6 p.m.
Plague Mask Players Announces ‘Romeo And Juliet’ Cast
This version of William Shakespeare’s Romeo & Juliet features a widower and widow who fall in love in spite of their adult children’s feud. This production will focus on love and loss, grief and joy, and the lengths one will go to hang onto that love in the midst of the storms of life.
The show will have LIVE performances at the Bath House Cultural Center in February.
Ticket information will be available soon.
Creative Team
Adapted & Directed By: Michael McMillan
Ast. Directed: Shea McMillan
Light Designer: Andy Vasquez
Prop Mistress: Alida Liberman
Set Designer: Aidan Wright
Costume Designer: Samantha Calatozzo Cobb
Outreach Coordinator: Erin Everywhere
Original Score Composer: Jared Cobb
Casting Director: Courtney Mentzel
Produced By: Savannah Lloyd
Romeo and Juliet Auditions: Plague Mask Players
This version of William Shakespeare’s Romeo & Juliet features a widower and widow who fall in love in spite of their adult children’s feud. This production will focus on love and loss, grief and joy, and the lengths one will go to hang onto that love in the midst of the storms of life.
The show will have LIVE performances at the Bath House Cultural Center in February.
Auditions
1106 Lupo (1106 Lupo Dr, Dallas, TX)
Audition- Sat 11/5 1:00-4:00pm
Callbacks- Mon 11/7 6:30-9:30pm
Sign-Up:
https://www.plaguemaskplayers.org/romeo-juliet-auditions
Characters:
ROMEO- 60+, MALE-PRESENTING, ANY ETHNICITY
Romeo is still mourning the loss of his first wife, Rosalind, who died a few years earlier. Meeting Juliet, he can’t believe his fortune at finding a second soulmate. Quick-witted, fiery, and full of the extremes of passion. Father to Montague and Benvolio.
JULIET- 60+, FEMALE-PRESENTING, ANY ETHNICITY
Forced to move in with her daughter, Lady Capulet, and son-in-law due to financial issues, Juliet thinks that the best days of life are behind her. When she gets swept away by Romeo, she starts to dream that the second part of her life might be as fun and adventurous as the first. Passionate, fierce, and stubborn.
FRIAR LAURENCE- 25-35, ANY GENDER, ANY ETHNICITY
Fresh from seminary, Friar Laurence is full of energy and a desire to solve the world’s problems. Very knowledgeable and compassionate, they often get in over their head as they trust too much in their own ability to get everyone out of sticky situations. Cool, think The Priest in Fleabag or Father Paul in Midnight Mass.
CAPULET - 30-50, MALE-PRESENTING, ANY ETHNICITY
Married to Juliet’s daughter. Does not enjoy having his mother-in-law living with them and is excited at the prospect of marrying her off to a noble of the town, thereby increasing his own wealth and social standing. Extravagant, pushy, conniving under a jovial veneer.
NURSE- 25-45, FEMALE-PRESENTING, ANY ETHNICITY
Hired to be the caretaker of Juliet, the Nurse has quickly formed a bond with her patient. Mischievous and playful, seeks to take care of her patient’s needs even above her employer’s wishes.
MERCUTIO- 50+, MALE-PRESENTING, ANY ETHNICITY
Romeo’s best friend. Melodramatic and always in pursuit of the best joke, Mercutio can quickly become violent when provoked. An incredible storyteller - has the Queen Mab speech.
BENVOLIO- 30-50, MALE-PRESENTING, ANY ETHNICITY
Youngest son of Romeo. Much closer to his father than Montague. Very empathetic and able to understand his father. Hopes to convince Romeo that it is okay to be open to happiness again.
LADY CAPULET- 30-50, FEMALE-PRESENTING, ANY ETHNICITY
Daughter to Juliet. Loves her mother dearly but doesn’t know how to connect with her. Feels torn between her husband and her mother.
PRINCE- ANY AGE, ANY GENDER, ANY ETHNICITY
The leader of Verona, struggling to keep peace between the Capulets and Montagues. Loses two family members. Authoritative, solemn, and grieving.
PARIS-60+ MALE-PRESENTING, ANY ETHNICITY
Wealthy business owner and politician who wants to marry Juliet. Entitled, certain, truly in love with Juliet and is devastated by her death.
MONTAGUE-30-50, ANY GENDER, ANY ETHNICITY
Eldest child of Romeo. Instigator of the feud with the Capulets. Concerned for their father but has no deep connection with him.
TYBALT- 20-40, ANY GENDER, ANY ETHNICITY
Much younger sibling of Capulet. Carries the family feud to the extremes. Murders Mercutio and is killed by Romeo. Fiery, brazen, irresponsible.
ENSEMBLE (2-4 players) - ANY AGE, ANY GENDER, ANY ETHNICITY
Will play multiple characters through the show, including soldiers of Capulet and Montague, servants, apothecary, Lady Montague, and Friar John. Want to see versatility and ability to transform between roles.
Succeeding With Shakespeare: Virtual Workshop Presented by Plague Mask Players
How to understand and unlock the heartbeat of performing Shakespeare!
We’ll Cover:
-Iambic Pentameter/Scansion
-Operative Words
-Audition Prep for our upcoming Romeo and Juliet!
All skill levels are welcome.
Presenter Bio:Meg Sullivan graduated from Baylor University with her BFA in Theatre Performance with emphases in Directing, and Marketing for the arts. She then received her Master of Fine Arts in Theatre Performance at Arizona State University. She is an educator, actor, & director who is passionate about theatre & its ability to teach humility, empathy, compassion, & leadership. She is a Resident Director & Grant Writer at Genesis Children's Theatre, Artistic Director of Three Strands Theatre, & a Shakespearean drama teacher at The Covenant School of Dallas. At Three Strands, she also teaches Corporate Improv classes which trains leaders in a hands-on, out-of-the-box way to break up patterns, encourage creativity, and motivate creative solutions.
Her favorite acting roles have included Witch 1 (Macbeth), Helena (A Midsummer Night's Dream), The Baker’s Wife (Into the Woods), Cunningham (The Last Days of Judas Iscariot), & Lotty Wilton (Enchanted April). A few of her favorite directing projects have included “Urinetown: The Musical,” “Macbeth,” “The Tempest,” and "Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde" at Genesis Children’s Theatre.
Prism Movement Theater: Combat Workshop With A Marvel Actor!
Learn combat from a Marvel & Black Panther Film Actor!
Ricky Lawson is in Dallas JUST FOR US!
Join us to learn more about the basics of the movement art form that led to generations of Brazilian slaves escaping to freedom. This class will cover the fundamentals of rhythmic attack and defense movements, based on the methodology created by Mestre Bimba.
SPOTS ARE LIMITED!
(This will be a cardio-heavy workshop.)
NEW WEBINAR: Plague Mask Players: Crafting Self-Tapes That BOOK YOU!
LED BY: Courtney Mentzel
Learn the dos and don'ts of a killer self-tape for whatever you're auditioning for: musicals, film, commercial work, and more!
We’ll Cover:
-The best high and low-cost setups for a professional audition
-How to frame different styles of audition shots, from musical theater to commercials
-Selecting the right monologue for the right type of audition: Theatrical generals vs. specific shows
-How to research your tv audition & understanding tone
EVENT INCLUDES Q & A TIME
Two Great Plays Closing Today
We have two plays closing today that you really can’t miss. Matt Lyle’s Big Scary Animals has its final performance today at 2:30 at Theatre Three. I was there for my second time Wednesday night. It was every bit as funny, intense, and moving as it was the first time. The first rate acting and directing here will both delight and challenge you. Matt Lyle’s script is full of unexpected surprises, both humorous and devastating. Big Scary Animals is a play that will most assuredly garner national attention and we are very lucky to see it first here in DFW.
On the other end of the spectrum is Dallas Theater Center’s Clue which plays its final performance tonight at 7:30. Clue is murder mystery farce made into high art by this spectacular production. The design alone is reason enough to see this play, but it is so much more. It is pure giddy joy from beginning to end and directed with such precision that the laughs are nonstop. Clue has some of the finest ensemble comic acting that you will ever see. It’s a guaranteed great time.
Why not make it a double header today? Catch Big Scary Animals at the matinee, go for an early dinner, then head a few blocks south to join me at Clue. There is just no better way for a theater lover to spend a Sunday than at one or both of these plays.
Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat
Congratulations to David Benedict and Moondance Theatre on their inaugural production of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. Director Mary Ann Morrow has filled the stage with a huge cast of local talent of all ages. Music Director Kathy French and Choreographers Kim Alldredge, Amy MacLean, and Mary Ann Morrow has them singing and dancing their hearts out in this dazzlingly colorful show. It is nonstop fun.
Special kudos to Kyle Grubbs who is an outstanding Joseph and to the incredible singer Christine Hand Jones as a narrator. I would go again just to see these two pros.
You have two more chances to catch Joseph today at the Courtyard Theater in Plano.
TICKETS:Moondance Theatre Presents: Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat (onthestage.tickets)
You’re off to a fantastic start Moondance. See you at Guys and Dolls in the spring!
Romeo And Juliet Announcement
Plague Mask Players Next Live Production!
This adaptation from the director, Michael McMillan explores a mature, true romance between Romeo and Juliet, a widower and widow who find love again in each other, despite the expectations of their adult children.
Seeking leads 60 years+
Live at Bath House Cultural Center
February 2023
Audition info coming soon.
Prism Movement Theater Launches A New Website!
BIGS NEWS!!
We are launching a brand new website just as unique and diverse as we are!! Check out our production photos, audition information, and how to book us for free in your community all in one place!
(Shoutout to Pearl Creative Consulting for the new pages!)
Check us out and comment your thoughts!
The Little Dog Laughed
Uptown Players closes its 2022 season with The Little Dog Laughed!
DALLAS, August 2, 2022 – The Uptown Players 2022 season will close with Douglas Carter Beane’s 2006 heartfelt drama, The Little Dog Laughed. The play tells the story of two lovers fighting against the world to keep their passion for each other alive. Mitchell, an up-and-coming actor, and Diane, his agent/producer, pretend to be a couple to avoid negative press about Mitchell’s homosexuality. The plan works until Mitchell falls for Alex, a young male prostitute, who changes Mitchell’s views about relationships and convinces him to love, much to the dismay of Diane who tries desperately to avoid a scandal. Throughout the play, the tabloid-mad public keeps at everyone’s heels, waiting anxiously for someone to fall. Filled with wit, hilarity, and realism, The Little Dog Laughed is a biting and timely comedy that takes aim at the entertainment industry, sex and sexuality, and the way happy endings “should” look. Everyone wants a happy ending. But sometimes the pursuit of happiness actually keeps you away from it.
This production will be directed by Robin Armstrong. Armstrong says “the theme of The Little Dog Laughed is ‘To thine own self be true’." According to Armstrong, “Mitchell has a choice, be with the person he thinks he loves, or be the person his fans and agent loves.” Douglas Carter Bean's The Little Dog Laughed takes a satiric look at the challenges of being true to yourself when that truth isn't what works for everyone else.
The Uptown Players cast includes Kevin Moore as Mitchell, Elizabeth Kensek as Diane, Carson Shofner as Alex and Shyama Nithiananda as Ellen. The production is stage managed by Renee Dessommes. Rounding out the design team is scenic designer Donna Marquet, lighting designer Amanda West, costume designers Suzi Cranford and Breianna Barrington, properties designer Jane Quetin, and sound designer Brian Christensen.
The Little Dog Laughed runs for 7 performances from August 19 – 28, 2022, with shows at 8 p.m. on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, and 2 p.m. on Sunday. Performances take place at the Kalita Humphreys Theater, 3636 Turtle Creek Blvd (at Blackburn), Dallas, TX 75219. There will be an ASL interpreted performance on Sunday, August 21st at 2pm. Ticket price run from $30 - $50 and can be purchased at uptownplayers.org .
