By Cheryl Thornburg
  The plot of Reading Community Players' current production "Fame" is fairly simple -- dozens of talented young people  attend a prestigious performing arts high school in New York to hone their skills and head on the path to stardom. And this show does the same thing  on a smaller scale -- it gives young area performers the chance to develop their skills and showcase their talent. And some of them are already on the path to stardom. They not only have talent, they  have  spark that makes them shine a little brighter on stage.
  Among them are Bronson Taylor as Ralph Garcy, a young man who plays fast with the truth and has a fascination with the late Freddie Prinze.  Taylor delivers a Ralph with lots of swagger and a touch of insecurity underneath.  He seems at home on stage -- and he belongs there.
  Showing off some fine dancing skills and a flair for comedy is Michael Roman as Angel, who originally came to auditions to help a friend and ended up winning a slot at the school.
 Also impressive is Amanda Gray as CoCo, who delivers two of the most memorable songs from the show, "I Want to Live Forever" and 'Out Here on My Own."
  James Barksdale, who may be familiar to area theater-goers, turns in a solid performance as Leroy, a talented, but belligerent young dancer who battles with Mrs. Sherwood, an English teacher who tries to help him. Hope O'Pake , who is also one of the directors of the show, is intense and believable as the teacher and the two share a tender scene in the second act.
  Elizabeth Pienta evokes sympathy as the talented, but timid, Doris, who is overpowered by her overbearing stage mother, Mrs. Schwartz, played with comedic flair by Laura Stewart.
  Alex Potcovaru  turns in a fine performance as the sensitive Monty MacNeil, who has lots of "issues."
 Owen Halsey, one of the younger performers (He will be in 9th grade at Exeter High School this fall) shows that he is a fine musician and singer as well as an actor.  He plays Bruno, the young composer who keeps his music to himself, at first.
  Integrated throughout the show are some familiar tunes sung by a fine barbershop quartet  -- Nick Moore, Zach Weisman, Dan Lesko, and Colin Long.
  The ensemble  format gives ample opportunities for cast members to show what they do best, sing, dance, act, or even tell jokes.
  Other performances of note are Katie Spencer as Joy, whose powerful vocals steal the show and Allison Gieringer as Deirdre  who conjures up a delightfully silly, fun-to-watch character.
  The grown-ups in this show who play teachers and parents, manage to hold their own amidst this talented group of up-and-coming performers.
Chuck Austin gives a first-rate and funny performance as Mr. Farrell, the drama teacher; Greg Mazurek, who also served as music director for the show,  plays Angelo, Bruno's father;  Ruth Martelli seems very comfortable as the music teacher, Mrs. Shorofsky, as does Marjory Ewald  as Miss Berg the dance instructor.
  Other members of this outstanding cast include Karl Kemmerer, Alex Forsyth,  Mikee Echavarria, Alex Torres, Logan Hatt, Summer Rose Biros, Billy Bailey, Jess Feldman, Shannen Moser, Kelly Fries, Amy Swartz, Danielle Moore, Ali Clark, Daphnee McMaster, Erika Guthier, Sydne Lyons. Jen Heydt, Cece Peery, Krista Grevas and Briana Hafer.
  In addition to and O'Pake and Mazurek, Amanda Leam, choreography, and Josh Austin, assistant director, helped make this production  possible.
Although the show is very upbeat and inspiring, some of the material may not be suitable for young audiences due to language and sensitive subject matter.
  If you're looking for something to restore your hope for the future, "Fame" may just be the ticket. As the show's closing anthem says,
"We can make a difference, It's not too late; Bring on tomorrow, we can't wait." 
  There's nothing like the enthusiasm of the next generation to lift the spirits of those of us who may have become somewhat jaded.
 “Fame”  continues today (July 31) and runs through Aug. 7 at Reading Community Players, 403 N. 11th St.  in Reading. Friday and Saturday curtain time is 7 p.m. Sunday matinees will begin at 2 p.m.  Tickets are $15 for adults, $10 for seniors and $8 for students. Call 610-375-9106 or visit the website, www.rcptheatre.com or call the theatre, 610-375-9106, for tickets.  Free parking and shuttle service is available at the 13th & Green Elementary School parking lot.

SPECIAL FUNDRAISER AUGUST 7th

Sunday, August 7, will be an all-day FAME affair, starting with a fundraiser for the Elizabeth Martelli Scholarship at Reading High at noon.  A 2001 graduate of RHS, Liz was part of the Fame 2001 cast.  She was killed in an automobile crash in March 2008.  This tribute to Liz will include a photo collage and music prepared for her memorial service by her brother, Mark, and the reading of several pieces of her poetry.  Refreshments will be served for those attending. A $10 donation is suggested. Proceeds will benefit her scholarship.  At 2 p.m., FAME 2011 will take the stage!

KENNETT SQUARE –  True to the theatrical tradition that “the show must go one” the Brandywiners are putting the finishing touches on Kiss Me, Kate, their 80th consecutive summer production. Rehearsals continue outdoors in authentic woolen Shakespearean costumes at the world famous Longwood Gardens despite the Delaware Valley’s record breaking heat wave.

"Kiss Me Kate" is one of  Cole Porter’s masterpieces.  He wrote the musical in 1949, 12 years after an equestrian accident left him paralyzed, almost ending his career. Inspired by Rodger and Hammerstein’s Oklahoma, which had just revolutionized American theater, he penned Kiss Me, Kate, a complex yet hilarious play within a play, where the interior play is a musical version of William Shakespeare’s The Taming of the Shrew, and the play itself is inhabited by the actors playing in the musical version.

Set in Baltimore in the 1948, the play’s signature song, "Too Darn Hot," is sung backstage between acts by the actors who are in Baltimore trying out for Broadway. With average summer temperatures in the high 80s and no air conditioning at the time, the song rings true for the Brandywiners who are struggling with the heat this summer as well.

The Brandywiners are one of the oldest community theater groups in the country. They were founded during the Depression in 1932 by then recent college graduates Frances Tatnall and Chick Laird. Reminiscent of today, the economy was down and prospects for college-age people were far from promising, so they decided to bring some cheer to their friends and family by putting on a show.

Pierre S. du Pont, former president of DuPont, then owner of Longwood Gardens, and patron of  the theater happily gave Tatnall and Laird, du Pont’s nephew, permission to use the Open Air Theatre. The hastily arranged production of "Pirates of Penzance" was a smashing success, and actually turned a profit, all of which was donated to charity on, launching a tradition which continues to this day.

Tickets can be purchased on line at www.brandywiners.org  or by calling 800 338-6965. Tickets include free all-day admission to Longwood Gardens.

READING — Reading Community Players presents “Fame” opens Friday  July 29 at RCP, 403 N. 11th St. Shows will continue July 30 and 31 and Aug. 5 to 7. Friday and Saturday curtain time is 7 p.m. Sunday matinees will begin at 2 p.m.
“Fame” follows the lives of students at a performing arts high school in New York City.
Appearing in the “Fame” cast are James Barksdale, Owen Halsey, Karl Kemmerer, Alex Forsyth, Alex Potcovaru, Bronson Taylor, Michael Roman, Mikee Echavarria, Nick Moore, Zach Weisman, Dan Lesko, Colin Long, Alex Torres, Logan Hatt, Summer rose Biros, Billy Bailey, Kirk Lawrence, Chuck Austin and Greg Mazurek.
And, Elizabeth Pienta, Laura Stewart, Marjory Ewald, Hope O’Pake, Amanda Gray, Jess Feldman, Shannen Moser, Kelly Fries, Amy Swartz, Katie Spencer, Danielle Moore, Allison Gieringer, Ali Clark, Daphnee McMaster, Erika Guthier, Sydne Lyons. Jen Heydt, Cece Peery, Krista Grevas and Briana Hafer.

Call 610-375-9106 for ticket information.

ON STAGE IN JULY and AUGUST

ALLENTOWN -- "Happy Days, A New Musical" at The Pines Dinner Theatre, Allentown, through Aug. 21. For information, visit www.pinesdinnertheatre.com or call 610-433-2333.


AUDUBON -- The King of Prussia Players present the Rodgers and Hammerstein classic, "The King and I" at the Shannondell Performing Arts Theater, 1000 Shannondell Drive. Curtain times are 7:30 p.m. on July 15, 16, 22, 23 and 29 and 2 p.m. on July 17, 24 and 30. Tickets are $17 for adults and $12 for senior citizens, children and students under 18.


BIRDSBORO -- AlphaOmegaPlayers, 301 E. First St. (Phone - Tickets): 610-404-4844, www.alphaomegaplayers.org/) present "Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat" July 29 through August 14, Adults $20, Students (12 & under) $15.


BRISTOL --  Summer Musicale Series presents "The Sweetest Sounds: An Evening With Richard Rodgers & Friends" July 14-24 at Bristol Riverside Theatre, 120 Radcliffe St., Bristol (215-785-0100)


CENTRE VALLEY -- The Pennsylvania Shakespeare Festival presents:
"Sleeping Beauty" through Aug. 6 at DeSales University, Labuda Center for the Performing Arts, 2755 Station Ave., Center Valley (610-282-3192)


EPHRATA -- Ephrata Performing Arts Center's Sharadin-Bigler Theater, Cocalico Street, Ephrata (717-733-7966) present "Chicago" July 7-23.


HARRISBURG -- Gamut Classic Theatre, 605 Strawberry Square, Harrisburg (717-238-4111) Popcorn Hat Players presents "Three Billy Goats Gruff" July 13 through Aug. 20.

JEFFERSONVILLE --  The Dramateurs’ production of  "Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat" will be presented July 22, 23, 28, 29 and 30 at 7:30 pm.  There are two matinee performances July 24 and 30 at 2 p.m.  All tickets are $15.  Reservations can be made by contacting the box office at (610) 539-BARN.  More information on the production is available at the theater’s website, www.barnplayhouse.org.


PARADISE -- Rainbow Dinner Theatre, Route 30 East, Paradise (1-800-292-4301) presents "Who Goes Bare?" through July 30.

POTTSTOWN -- Tri-PAC presents 'Willy Wonka Jr." Aug. 13 and 14 at the theater, 245 East  High Street. Tickets available online for performances.

Details at www.tripac.org or contact Steve Reazor, Education Director, .

READING -- Genesis  Theatre, 153 N. 10th St. (610-373-9500 www.GenesiusTheatre.org) presents "High School Musical" July 15 through July 24.
Genesius also presents "Aspects of Love" at the Reading Public Museum, August 19, 20 21. Spanning a period of 17 years, the show focuses on five people, all related by blood, circumstance, or passion. Performances are in the Reading Public Museum Atrium. Ger tickets early, this event has sold out for the last two years. (610-373-9500 www.GenesiusTheatre.org)


READING -- Reading Community Players, 403 N. 11th St. (610-375-9106) present "Fame" July 29 through Aug. 7


READING -- Reading Civic Theatre in conjunction with Alvernia University  presents “The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee” August 5-6, 12-13 at St. Anthony's Auditorium, 211 Grace Street, Reading. Tickets are available by calling our ticket line 610-373-3311.  Friday and Saturday performances are at 8 p.m. and Sunday matinees at 3 p.m.  (610-375-7482, http://readingcivic.org/)

TRI-PAC PERFORMING ARTS SUMMER CAMP – JULY & AUGUST

2 Sessions Remain!!!

Session Two: July 25 - Aug. 5; Session Three: Aug. 8 - 19

CAMP HOURS AND FEES

9am – 4pm for 5th - 12th Grades ($419 per 2-week session)

9am – 4pm for 1st - 4th Grades ($429 per 2-week session); half-day camp option for 1st through 4th Grades 

NEW! SUMMER MUSICAL – WILLY WONKA, JR!

Tickets available on-line for performances on August 13^th & 14^th!

Details at www.tripac.org or contact Steve Reazor, Education Director, steve@villageproductions.org 

TRI-COUNTY PERFORMING ARTS CENTER

P.O. Box 1325; 245 E. HIGH STREET

POTTSTOWN, PA 19464

www.tripac.org; 610.970.1199

DRAMATEURS PRESENT 2011'S YOUTH PRODUCTION 'JOSEPH AND THE AMAZING TECHNICOLOR DREAMCOAT' OPENS JULY 22

The Dramateurs will present  its 2011 youth production, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, by  Andrew Lloyd Webber Webber and lyricist Tim Rice July 22, 23, 28, 29 and 30 at  The Barn Playhouse, on the corner of Rittenhouse Boulevard and Christopher Street in Jeffersonville.

The musical, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, was composed by Andrew Lloyd Webber with lyricist Tim Rice.  Its 1982 premiere on Broadway earned seven Tony Awards, including Best Musical and Best Original Score.  The musical has become a favorite of theaters and schools throughout the world for its message of hope and the power of family.  The Dramateurs at the Barn Playhouse are continuing this tradition as they present the story of Joseph and his coat of many colors for their 2011 Youth Production. 
The musical is entirely sung, with no spoken dialogue.  It features a wide array of musical styles, from country western to rock-n-roll as it tells the Biblical story of Joseph and his coat of many colors.  Joseph, his father’s favorite son, is sold into slavery and sent to Egypt by his jealous band of brothers.  Blessed with prophetic dreams, Joseph embarks on a series of adventures in which his spirit and humanity are challenged.  After testing their integrity, Joseph reveals himself to his brothers in a heartfelt reconciliation. 

     An amazing collection of young performers, from elementary to high school age, will present this heartfelt tale for two weekends at their theater in Jeffersonville.  Richard Fusco of Blue Bell tackles the role of Joseph, his father’s favorite son who is sold into slavery by his band of jealous brothers.  As the narrators, Lauren Stephens of Blue Bell and Laura Pontari of Lafayette Hill share the task of bringing the story to life with song and dance.  Jacob Bowman of Ambler is Pharoah, the ruler of Egypt whose dreams are interpreted by Joseph.  The remainder of this talented ensemble cast is composed of students from several area school districts, including Norristown Area, Colonial, Methacton, Wissahickon, and Neshaminy.  The production is directed by Robert Marsch of Conshohocken, with music direction by Konnie Stark of Lansdale. 

     This production marks the fourth youth production for the Dramateurs in as many years.  Past productions have included last year’s Bye Bye Birdie, Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream, and the community theater debut of Les Miserables, School Edition.  The group has existed as a working theater since 1934 and has performed in the same renovated Barn on the corner of Rittenhouse Boulevard and Christopher Street in Jeffersonville since 1937.  The production is also a major part of the group educational mission to stimulate greater interest in the dramatic arts and literature in the greater Norristown Area. 

     The Dramateurs’ production will be presented July 22, 23, 28, 29 and 30 at 7:30 pm.  There are two matinee performances July 24 and 30 at 2:00 pm.  All tickets are $15.  Reservations can be made by contacting the box office at (610) 539-BARN.  More information on the production is available at the theater’s website, www.barnplayhouse.org.

The Kimberton Village Business Association and actors from Norristown’s Theatre Horizon will present Shakespeare’s comedy “As You Like It” on Thursday  July 21 at 7 p.m. in Kimberton Park.

 General Admission tickets for the play are $10, with $5 admission for seniors and FREE admission for children under 12.  After-Party tickets are $15 each. Tickets are available for purchase at Kimberton Whole Foods, The Station Bistro, The Kimberton Inn, East Pikeland Township Building and at the gate. Dinner-theater tickets are available from The Kimberton Inn (610-933-8148) and The Station Bistro (610-933-1147); call for reservations.
Immediately following the show, meet the cast, director and other members of Theater Horizon at an After-Party at the Kimberton Inn. The $15-per-person admission includes either a sandwich or other light-fare item or a dessert, and also either a beer or glass of wine from Kimberton Inn's selection of gourmet beers and fine wines. The Marc Dryburgh Jazz Trio will perform.
Proceeds from the event will support “Walkable Kimberton,” a joint project of East Pikeland Township and the KVBA. The multi-phase plan will provide safe walking opportunities through the historic business district, and trails and walkways through its natural surroundings with eventual linkages to the French Creek and the Schuylkill River Trails.
Kimberton Park is located adjacent to the Kimberton Fair Grounds and is best accessed from Kimberton Road although it is accessible from Route 113. The primary event parking will be at the Park (2202 Kimberton Road) and behind C. Raymond Davis ( 2124 Kimberton Road) with overflow parking at the Kimberton Fire Company, including the Kimberton Youth Athletic League baseball fields and the fairgrounds.
Bring a blanket or lawn chair to sit on. Rain date: August 3.
For more details, go to  HYPERLINK "http://www.walkablekimberton.org" www.walkablekimberton.org.

The cast pictured, from left to right: Elizabeth Cooper, Riley Pearson, Emily Snyder, Quinn Corcoran

Photo credit: Shannan Denlinger

By Cheryl Thornburg
  If you could bottle the energy and enthusiasm in Genesius Theatre's current production, the world would be  better place.
  "High School Musical," based on the popular  Disney movie, is very familiar to the teen and preteen set, a well as their parents and grandparents. But for those of you who aren't, it is set in a typical American high school peopled with jocks, cheerleaders, brainiacs and other cliques.  Even if you went to high school 40 years ago, some things haven't changed.
  The cast is primarily high school and middle school students, with a few college students and a couple of grown-ups for good measure.
  At the heart of the story is an unlikely love match between the school's basketball star, Troy, played by Riley Pearson and a newcomer science and math geek, Gabriella, played by Emily Snyder. The two had met while  singing karaoke on vacation and reconnect in school.     

  These two shine in their duets, "I can't take my eyes off of you" and "When There Was Me and You." Snyder's emotion was palpable in the latter ballad, showcasing her acting as well as her vocal talent. Pearson, who will be a junior at Governor Mifflin this year, delivers the perfect balance  between being macho when with his teammates and  sensitive when he's with Gabriella.
  There are some other great duos in this show -- the conniving  sister, Sharpay,  and her brother, Ryan, who have ruled the drama club forever -- are played by Elizabeth Cooper and Quinn Corcoran. Cooper, a sophomore at Shippensburg University,  brings strong vocals and comedic talent as Sharpay, the diva of the school. Corcoran is delightful as her flamboyant brother.  He manages to combine vocals, dance and comedy with ease.
  Fearful of losing their star status, these two team up to prevent Troy and Gabriella from auditioning for the school musical, adding the "drama" and plot  to this musical comedy.
The kids don't get to have all the fun in this show, though.  Katie Mohn is hilarious as the over-the-top drama teacher (she reminds me of one of my high school English teachers at Reading High).  Offsetting her dramatic flair is the understated, but equally funny, performance by Patrick Malarkey as Coach Bolton, who happens to be Troy's father.
  Other performances of note are:
  Spencer Barbera demonstrates that's he's a budding comedian as Jack Scott who periodically delivers school radio announcements that tie the show together.
  Morgan Konopelski  a student in the Exeter schools, proves she can sing as well as make people laugh as Taylor, Gabriella's best friend.
  Another musically gifted cast member is Sarah Kerwin, a student at Owen J. Roberts High School, who plays Kelsi Nelson who writes the school musical "Juliet and Romeo," that sets up the competition for leading roles.
  Adding his own charming comedic take on  Zeke, the basketball player with a secret passion for baking, is John Pietrobono.
  Reading High School's Rubiel Vargas plays Troy's best friend Chad.  He, along with Morgan Konopelski and Sarah Kerwin,  gets the crowd going in the second act with the rousing song, "We're All in This Together."
  Rounding out the talented cast are Evan Malarkey (Jason), Grayson Ziegler (James), Brianna Janoczkin (Susan), Becca Snyder (Cathy), Nick Schmoyer (Alan), Cecilia Cooper (Cyndra), Manouchka Paulemont, Morgan Keener, Sophie Giallareto (Trio), Jennifer Smilth (Martha), Jenna Lemelin (Kratnoff), Jessie Hoffman (Ripper), Nicholas Pietrobono (Mongo), and Jewell Brown (Ms. Tenney/Moderator). In the ensemble are: Vrushabh Doshi, Jessie Havercamp, Jake Hoffman, Luke Ott, Trey Petrarca, Kaitlyn Reber, Sarajean Reinert, Hanna Schultz, and Kira Voit.
  Director Kelly Snyder has rounded up more than 30 talented students from 11 area schools, and like the characters in the show, she has helped them realize their dreams of being on stage. Choreography, a challenge in this small space, is by Erin Stevens, and musical direction by Kevin Cooper. The result is lively upbeat family entertainment.
  Remaining performances are July 16, 22, and 23 at 8 p.m., July 17 and 24 at 3 p.m,, and July 20 and 21 at 7 p.m.
  Tickets for performances are $25 for adults, $20 for seniors, and $15 for students with ID. Please note: Curtain for the Wednesday, July 20th and Thursday, July  21st performances is 7 p,m. All seats for the Wednesday, July 20th and Thursday, July  21st performances are $15.
  Genesius Theatre is located  at 10th & Walnut streets, Reading. There is free parking adjacent to the theater, just off 10th Street,  The theater  is handicap accessible. 
For tickets and more information visit the Genesius Website at www.genesiustheatre.org or call the Genesius Reservation Hot-Line at 610-373-9500. 

ON STAGE IN JULY and AUGUST

ALLENTOWN -- "Happy Days, A New Musical" at The Pines Dinner Theatre, Allentown, through Aug. 21. For information, visit www.pinesdinnertheatre.com or call 610-433-2333.

AUDUBON -- The King of Prussia Players present the Rodgers and Hammerstein classic, "The King and I" at the Shannondell Performing Arts Theater, 1000 Shannondell Drive. Curtain times are 7:30 p.m. on July 15, 16, 22, 23 and 29 and 2 p.m. on July 17, 24 and 30. Tickets are $17 for adults and $12 for senior citizens, children and students under 18.

BIRDSBORO -- AlphaOmegaPlayers, 301 E. First St. (Phone - Tickets): 610-404-4844, www.alphaomegaplayers.org/) present "Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat" July 29 through August 14, Adults $20, Students (12 & under) $15.

BRISTOL --  Summer Musicale Series presents "The Sweetest Sounds: An Evening With Richard Rodgers & Friends" July 14-24 at Bristol Riverside Theatre, 120 Radcliffe St., Bristol (215-785-0100)

CENTRE VALLEY -- The Pennsylvania Shakespeare Festival presents:
"The Comedy of Errors" through July 17
"Sleeping Beauty" through Aug. 6 at DeSales University, Labuda Center for the Performing Arts, 2755 Station Ave., Center Valley (610-282-3192)

EPHRATA -- Ephrata Performing Arts Center's Sharadin-Bigler Theater, Cocalico Street, Ephrata (717-733-7966) present "Chicago" July 7-23.

HARRISBURG -- Gamut Classic Theatre, 605 Strawberry Square, Harrisburg (717-238-4111) Popcorn Hat Players presents "Three Billy Goats Gruff" July 13 through Aug. 20.

PARADISE -- Rainbow Dinner Theatre, Route 30 East, Paradise (1-800-292-4301) presents "Who Goes Bare?" through July 30

PHILADELPHIA  -- Walnut Street Theatre, 825 Walnut St., Philadelphia (215-413-1318) presents "Miss Saigon" through July 17

READING -- Genesis  Theatre, 153 N. 10th St. (610-373-9500 www.GenesiusTheatre.org) presents "High School Musical" July 15 through July 24.
Genesius also presents "Aspects of Love" at the Reading Public Museum, August 19, 20 21. Spanning a period of 17 years, the show focuses on five people, all related by blood, circumstance, or passion. Performances are in the Reading Public Museum Atrium. Ger tickets early, this event has sold out for the last two years. (610-373-9500 www.GenesiusTheatre.org)

READING -- Reading Community Players, 403 N. 11th St. (610-375-9106) present "Fame" July 29 through Aug. 7

READING -- Reading Civic Theatre in conjunction with Alvernia University  presents “The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee” August 5-6, 12-13 at St. Anthony's Auditorium, 211 Grace Street, Reading. Tickets are available by calling our ticket line 610-373-3311.  Friday and Saturday performances are at 8 p.m. and Sunday matinees at 3 p.m.  (610-375-7482, http://readingcivic.org/)

Auditions for "The Little Dog Laughed" will be held Monday, July 18 at 7 p.m. Tuesday  July 19 at 7 p.m. at Genesius Theatre,  153 N 10th Street, Reading, PA.
It is  written by Douglas Carter Beane and directed by Kirk Lawrence.
Performances: October 21 – October 30

THE STORY (From Dramatists Play Service):

Yes, we love the cinema for its great auteurs, its glorious faces and its daring images. But in this tabloid age where big stars go on Oprah and jump around like heartsick schoolboys, what we really love is all that dish! The players here include a hard-driving Hollywood agent, her budding screen idol client, a sexy young drifter, and the drifter’s naive, needy girlfriend. THE LITTLE DOG LAUGHED follows the adventures of Mitchell Green, a movie star who could hit big if it weren’t for one teensy-weensy problem. His agent, Diane, can’t seem to keep him in the closet. Trying to help him navigate Hollywood’s choppy waters, the devilish Diane is doing all she can to keep Mitchell away from the cute rent boy who’s caught his eye and the rent boy’s girlfriend (wait, the rent boy has a girlfriend?). Will there be a happy ending as the final credits roll?

From the Director: "This is the first time the theatre is producing one of Genesius alumnus Douglas Carter Beane’s plays and I am honored to be at the helm. It’s a demanding piece: the language is quick, witty, and difficult. A strong commitment to the piece, and the work necessary to do it well, will be required of those cast. The work will be hard, but great fun. I’m looking forward to this journey.

Cast information:

Mitchell – Hollywood star on the rise. Closeted homosexual torn between what he truly wants and what other people want from him. Male – late 20’s to early 30’s.

Diane – Acerbic , cynical, driven, and very, VERY Hollywood. The only person more important than her client Mitchell is herself. Female – mid-30’s and above.

Alex – NYC rent boy. Alex is very naïve for someone who has experienced so much. He is jaded, yet remarkably idealistic. Love interest for Mitchell. He is also boyfriend/best friend/only friend to Ellen. Male – early 20’s.

Ellen – NYC party girl. Ellen has made a living being kept by much older men, while still sleeping with Alex. Tough yet innocent, and just damaged enough to make her interesting. Female – early 20’s.

Sexual/romantic interplay is required for the characters of Mitchell and Alex, and Alex and Ellen. Nudity is required for the roles of Mitchell and Alex. Actors auditioning for these roles must be comfortable with this.

Due to the nudity and sexual situations, no one under 18 will be considered for this production. If you are under 18, please do not audition for this show.

Auditioners will be asked to read from the script. A familiarity with the characters and script is highly recommended.

Audition materials may be found here:
http://www.thestagingarea.com/little-dog


NOTE:

Auditions for 'I love You, You're Perfect, Now Change' will be held the same days.

Auditions for  Genesius Theatre's September production will also be held   July 18 & 19 at the theater, 153 N. 10th St. in Reading.  See previous post for details.

The cast of Genesius Theatre's production of "High School Musical" includes
from left to right: Elizabeth Cooper, Riley Pearson, Emily Snyder, Quinn Corcoran

Photo credit by  Shannan Denlinger

Genesius Theatre presents Disney's "High School Musical" July 15-24. The show  is based on a Disney Channel Original Movie written by Peter Barsocchini.
Performances are July 15, 16, 22, and 23 at 8 p.m., July 17 and 24 at 3 p.m., and July 20 and 21 at 7 p.m.
 The production showcases Genesius’s versatile teen performers.

"High School Musical"takes us back to high school, but with more music! It is the story of the students, and the cliques they survive in, at the fictional East High. Drama Divas, Briainiacs, Skater Dudes, and Jocks all look for their chance to musically shine. Will peer pressure keep them from their dreams? Will Sharpay, heir apparent to the High School Musical crown, connive her way to victory? Can Troy lead the Wildcats to victory in the championship game and still manage to get to musical callbacks? Get the answers to those questions and more while you watch a new generation of Genesians blow the roof off the theatre. Don’t miss this rousing Summer treat!

Tickets for performances are $25 for adults, $20 for Seniors, and $15 for Students with ID. Please note: Curtain for the Wednesday, July 20 and Thursday, July 21 performances is 7 p.m. All seats for the those  performances are $15.

For tickets and more information visit the Genesius Website at www.genesiustheatre.org or call the Genesius Reservation Hot-Line at 610-373-9500.
The theatre is located at 10th and Walnut Streets in Reading.  Genesius has free parking adjacent to the theater, just off 10th Street and is handicap accessible.  The production is rated G.  Great for the entire family.

The cast of the murder mystery at The Loft at Limerick entitled: “Vampire’s Last Bite” includes (from left): Cheryl Lynn (as Frau Von Helsing); Liz Gaynor (as Miss Mina); Gene Traupman (as Count Vlad Dracula); and Jen Gross (stage manager).

 If you're looking for dinner and a show, head to Limerick July 16:
 
The Loft at Limerick Golf Club is holding a comedy / murder mystery dinner theater Saturday, July 16. The murder mystery show is an outrageously funny event entitled, “Vampire’s Last Bite.”

 Count Vlad Dracula has gathered together a group of vampires to his lair for a very special meeting.  He is concerned about the modern day vampire image being reduced to cartoons, puppets, and teenage sex symbols. The vixen Elvira Vampira has come to the meeting to seduce her way into becoming the Countess Dracula. It’s a load of fun, and appropriate for all audiences.

  The show is produced by White Rose Productions, an entertainment company that has performed highly successful dinner theatre shows in hotels, restaurants and banquet facilities. Their website is www.whiterose-productions.com.

   The cost for the event is $35 per person which includes a buffet dinner and the show. The doors open at 6:30 PM, and a cash bar will be available. For reservations call Graham Crouse at The Loft at Limerick Golf Club at 610-247-3027. The facility is located at 765 North Lewis Road, Limerick, PA; the website is www.theloftatlimerick.com.

 This is a little short notice, but if you happen to be in Ocean Cty, N.J. today  or tomorrow, here's some classic, rousing entertainment for you:

Ocean City, NJ – The 2011 Summer Season of the Ocean City Theatre Company and the Ocean City POPS kicks off with one of the most beloved family musical comedies of all time, The Music Man!  This Broadway musical celebrates the Americana spirit and comes marching into Ocean City just in time for Independence Day.

 

The Music Man is a nostalgic, heart-warming comedy about conman, Harold Hill, whose scam involves convincing the people of River City, Iowa into buying band instruments, with a promise to create and instruct a boy's band. His wild scheme is flawed when he meets a beautiful and clever librarian, who rebuffs his advances and vows to prove to the small town that he is a fraud. This classic romantic comedy contains such memorable tunes as "Seventy Six Trombones", "'Till There Was You", and "Gary, Indiana".

Catch this Star-Spangled production July 5 at 7:30 PM, July 6 at 2  and 7:30 p.m. at the Hughes Performing Arts Center, 6^th Street and Atlantic Avenue. For tickets please call 609-525-9300, go to www.ocnj.us or visit the Box office at the Ocean City Music Pier.

 

This production is appropriate for all ages and the perfect outing for any group.  We are offering special rates for groups of 20 people or more and is a perfect event for Student/Senior Groups, Red Hat Societies, Church Groups etc., If you are interested in a group rate please contact the Ocean City Annex at (609) 525-9300.

Auditions for  Genesius Theatre's September production will be held   July 18 & 19 at the theater, 153 N. 10th St. in Reading.  Details from the Genesius website follow:

I LOVE YOU, YOU'RE PERFECT, NOW CHANGE 
Directed by Hope L. O'Pake
Musical Director - Chris Sperat
Choreographer - Amanda L. Guistwite
Stage Manager:  Zach Frantz
Auditions:  Monday July 18, 2011 and Tuesday July 19, 2011 at 7 PM
Performance dates: September 16 - September 25

Show Description:  "This celebration of the mating game takes on the truths and myths behind that contemporary conundrum know as "the relationship." Act I explores the journey from dating and waiting to love and marriage, while Act II reveals the agonies and triumphs of in-laws and newborns, trips in the family car and pick-up techniques of the geriatric set. This hilarious revue pays tribute to those who have loved and lost, to those who have fallen on their face at the portal of romance, to those who have dared to ask, "Say, what are you doing Saturday night?" - R & H Theatricals

Notes from Hope:  There is certainly some "adult" material in here...language, subject matter, etc...  Though it is entirely harmless to my liberal way of thinking, it is probably best to have the kids auditions for one of our "children-friendly" shows in the summer, and leave them at home with a babysitter for those wanting to purchase tickets for the show.  This show is definitely fun for the grown-ups!

Cast Breakdown:  Though originally done with a cast of four portraying ALL roles (each song introduces new characters!), we will be using a larger cast than that.  Casting will be done on an "age-appropriate" basis for each song, so if you've ever dated or been in a relationship, you should audition for this show!  The full ensemble will be in the opening number and finale, with everyone being cast in others songs as appropriate.  You need to be comfortable with adult language and themes to participate in this show.  Though it is all presented in a fun and light-hearted way, we will be singing about everything from dating fiascos to sexual frustration to mid-life crises!  If you like to laugh your butt off and are not easily offended, this show is for you!

What should you bring with you to audition, you ask?  A SENSE OF HUMOR!  Also, feel free to bring with you drinks in spill-proof containers, paper/pen/pencil for notes, a list of any conflicts you would have with our rehearsal schedule (Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays), and comfortable clothing.  Bring your enthusiasm, your best singing voice, and your greatest improv acting skills!  We will use music from the show for auditions, so you do not need to prepare anything in advance.  We will provide the music, and everything else you need!

What will our schedule be like?  We will rehearse on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6:30-9:30PM, beginning on August 23, 2011.  We will also rehearse on Sundays, from 1-5PM, with extended rehearsals on Sundays if needed.  A detailed schedule will be provided at the time the cast list is announced, showing which cast members need to be at which rehearsals throughout the entire rehearsal process.  Everyone will need to commit to Tech Week, so please clear your schedule accordingly.  We will also schedule individual and small group rehearsals as needed to begin learning music prior to August 23, 2011.

For more information, contact Hope L. O'Pake at rifles18@aol.com

If you're looking for  a fun experience for your kids this summer, check this out:

TRI-PAC PERFORMING ARTS SUMMER CAMP – JULY & AUGUST

For campers entering 1^st through 12^th Grades

Three 2-week sessions! Take 1, 2 or all 3!

Session One: July 11 – 22; Session Two: July 25 - Aug. 5; Session Three: Aug. 8 - 19

CAMP HOURS AND FEES

9am – 4pm for 5th - 12th Grades ($419 per 2-week session)

9am – 4pm for 1st - 4th Grades ($429 per 2-week session)

Half-day camp option for 1st through 4th Grades; 9am – noon or 1pm – 4pm ($209 per 2-week session)

NEW! SUMMER MUSICAL – WILLY WONKA, JR!

Join us Onstage or Backstage! Open to camp participants only. $25 materials fee.

Details at www.tripac.org or contact Steve Reazor, Education Director, steve@villageproductions.org 

TRI-COUNTY PERFORMING ARTS CENTER

P.O. Box 1325; 245 E. HIGH STREET

POTTSTOWN, PA 19464

www.tripac.org; 610.970.1199

AUDITION NOTICES
QUAKERTOWN -- The Crowded Kitchen Players will conduct auditions for a fall production of Dashiell Hammett's "The Maltese Falcon" at 7 p.m. on Wednesday July 6  and Friday July 8  at  McCoole's Arts and Events Place, 10 S. Main St. All roles are open; actors will read from the script. A stage manager and light and sound volunteers are also being sought. Call 610-395-7176 for more information.

SPOTLIGHT

 Photo by Mark Gavin

Mary McCool, Peter Pryor, Mary Elizabeth Scallen, Julia Stroup and Tom Teti in David Wiltse's "Hatchetman" at People's Light & Theatre in Malvern.

MALVERN -- "Hatchetman," a six-character, four door-slamming comedy set in the offices of Putts, a golf magazine headed for a corporate takeover, is on stage through July 17 at People's Light & Theatre Company, 39 Conestoga Road. The audience is invited to join the actors after each Thursday evening performance for a conversation about the production.
Single ticket prices range from $25 to $45. Call the box office at 610-644-3500 for a list of show dates and to reserve seating.


ON STAGE IN JULY

ALLENTOWN -- "Happy Days, A New Musical" at The Pines Dinner Theatre, Allentown, through Aug. 21. For information, visit www.pinesdinnertheatre.com or call 610-433-2333.

AUDUBON -- The King of Prussia Players present the Rodgers and Hammerstein classic, "The King and I" this month at the Shannondell Performing Arts Theater, 1000 Shannondell Drive.
Curtain times are 7:30 p.m. on July 15, 16, 22, 23 and 29 and 2 p.m. on July 17, 24 and 30. Tickets are $17 for adults and $12 for senior citizens, children and students under 18.

BIRDSBORO -- AlphaOmegaPlayers, 301 E. First St. (Phone - Tickets): 610-404-4844, www.alphaomegaplayers.org/) present "Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat" July 29 through August 14, Adults $20, Students (12 & under) $15.

BRISTOL --  Summer Musicale Series presents "The Sweetest Sounds: An Evening With Richard Rodgers & Friends" July 14-24 at Bristol Riverside Theatre, 120 Radcliffe St., Bristol (215-785-0100)

CENTRE VALLEY -- The Pennsylvania Shakespeare Festival presents:
"Sleeping Beauty" through Aug. 6
"South Pacific" through July 3
"The Comedy of Errors" through July 17 at
DeSales University, Labuda Center for the Performing Arts, 2755 Station Ave., Center Valley (610-282-3192)

EPHRATA -- Ephrata Performing Arts Center's Sharadin-Bigler Theater, Cocalico Street, Ephrata (717-733-7966) present "Chicago" July 7-23.

HARRISBURG -- Gamut Classic Theatre, 605 Strawberry Square, Harrisburg (717-238-4111) Popcorn Hat Players presents "Three Billy Goats Gruff" July 13 through Aug. 20.

MALVERN -- People's Light and Theatre Company, 39 Conestoga Road, Malvern (610-644-3500)
"Hatchetman" through July 10

PARADISE -- Rainbow Dinner Theatre, Route 30 East, Paradise (1-800-292-4301) presents "Who Goes Bare?" through July 30

PHILADELPHIA  -- Suzanne Roberts Theatre, 480 S. Broad St., Philadelphia (215-985-0420)
Philadelphia Theatre Company presents Colin Quinn in "Long Story Short" through July 10

PHILADELPHIA  -- Walnut Street Theatre, 825 Walnut St., Philadelphia (215-413-1318) presents "Miss Saigon" through July 17

READING -- Reading Civic Theatre presents “Some Enchanted Evening," a Rodgers & Hammerstein Revue Sunday, July 10, 2 p.m. & 8 p.m. at Alvernia College Montessori School, 211 Grace St,, Reading (610-375-7482, http://readingcivic.org/)

READING -- Genesis  Theatre, 153 N. 10th St. (610-373-9500 www.GenesiusTheatre.org) presents "High School Musical" July 15 through July 24.

READING -- Reading Community Players, 403 N. 11th St. (610-375-9106) present "Fame" July 29 through Aug. 7