She may not know all the right answers but she does ask all the right questions. Dear Gabby: The Confessions of an Over-Achiever tells the story of a teenaged girl who confronts a series of life-lessons as she writes the advice column for her school’s paper. The funny and poignant play will be presented at the Civic Theatre in Downtown Akron for a single performance on Wednesday, February 2, 2011. Tickets are $10.00 for adults and $5.00 for students and are available by calling the Civic box office at 330.253.2488 or online at www.akroncivic.com. Seating is limited so patrons are encouraged to buy their tickets in advance.
Dear Gabby: The Confessions of an Over-Achiever is by Chris DeCarlo and Evelyn Rudie, who serve as co-Artistic Directors of the Santa Monica Playhouse in California. They describe their play as an interactive theatre experience, which explores such teen concerns as first love, peer pressure, rejection, relationships, drugs, cheating, self-esteem, and the passion and pain of piano lessons.
Dear Gabby is under the direction of guest artist Elynmarie Kazle who has already directed the play three times at Firestone High School. She worked at the Santa Monica Playhouse at the time of Dear Gabby’s original performances and tours. Firestone Theatre has presented the play six times over ten years to a wide variety of audiences. One production toured to the Dayton, Ohio, area as well as returned home to the Santa Monica Playhouse for two fund-raising performances. Kazle has served as the school’s Stage Management Trainer and Mentor for 10 years and recently worked at the Cleveland Playhouse.
The cast of Dear Gabby: The Confessions of an Over-Achiever is lead by seniors Hayley Hineline and Caeli Droge. They are supported by sophomores Amelia Britton, Aaron Eckhardt, Deandre Hairston, Sierrah Jesiolowski, Jada Langston; and freshman Lani Skelley. SophomoreWill Banno Rothman serves as the stage manager. Junior Marissa Wilson serves as the student director.
Call the theatre office at Firestone High School at 330-873-3408 for additional information.
Wednesday, December 15, 2010
DEAR GABBY takes us all on the Journey of our Lifetime.
FROM AMELIA WHO PLAYS THE TITLE ROLE IN OUR UPCOMING PRODUCTION OF DEAR GABBY.
The DEAR GABBY journey started a few months ago, but it’s definitely taken off from there.
For me, it actually started last year, when I was on makeup crew for the 2009 production. When I saw it in tech rehearsal for the first time, I was genuinely affected. To me, the greatest thing about the show is that it’s so universal. I think that every student can relate to the show somehow—we’ve all (to differing extents) been that uncertain, unpopular kid. Or we’ve seen our friends cheating on a test, or we’ve watched someone we love become someone we hardly recognize anymore.
As I watched the show for the first time, I found myself identifying with one character after another. While I didn’t necessarily condone the way they each dealt with their problems, I did understand where they were coming from. I knew how it felt to be in their situation, and I empathized with the characters.
None of us has ever done this before—we aren’t exactly sure what’s the “right way” to grow up. That’s one of the central themes of Gabby. As each of us gets a little deeper into our character, we’re also getting a little deeper into ourselves, and that’s a scary idea.
DEAR GABBY: THE CONFESSIONS OF AN OVER-ACHIEVER makes one public performance at the Akron Civic Theatre on Wednesday, February 2, 2011
amelia
The DEAR GABBY journey started a few months ago, but it’s definitely taken off from there.
For me, it actually started last year, when I was on makeup crew for the 2009 production. When I saw it in tech rehearsal for the first time, I was genuinely affected. To me, the greatest thing about the show is that it’s so universal. I think that every student can relate to the show somehow—we’ve all (to differing extents) been that uncertain, unpopular kid. Or we’ve seen our friends cheating on a test, or we’ve watched someone we love become someone we hardly recognize anymore.
As I watched the show for the first time, I found myself identifying with one character after another. While I didn’t necessarily condone the way they each dealt with their problems, I did understand where they were coming from. I knew how it felt to be in their situation, and I empathized with the characters.
None of us has ever done this before—we aren’t exactly sure what’s the “right way” to grow up. That’s one of the central themes of Gabby. As each of us gets a little deeper into our character, we’re also getting a little deeper into ourselves, and that’s a scary idea.
DEAR GABBY: THE CONFESSIONS OF AN OVER-ACHIEVER makes one public performance at the Akron Civic Theatre on Wednesday, February 2, 2011
amelia
Tuesday, December 14, 2010
Tomorrow is Another Day
In keeping with a the original intent of this blog, a handful of students have been recruited to contribute their thoughts to the theatrical process in the coming months. Today we share the first of these contributions. Enjoy.
maz
FROM SHAMARA:
I am far too excited for Hairspray, so much that I hoped that today we would NOT have a snow day (despite the inevitable blizzard) so that I could see the cast list. This cast list has been the topic of conversation and unadulterated anticipation ever since it was first revealed that Firestone would be putting on the fabulous musical. And... Of course... We had a snow day today. So who knows how long we'll eagerly await now... Hopefully tomorrow will be the day!
maz
FROM SHAMARA:
I am far too excited for Hairspray, so much that I hoped that today we would NOT have a snow day (despite the inevitable blizzard) so that I could see the cast list. This cast list has been the topic of conversation and unadulterated anticipation ever since it was first revealed that Firestone would be putting on the fabulous musical. And... Of course... We had a snow day today. So who knows how long we'll eagerly await now... Hopefully tomorrow will be the day!
One More Snow Day Creates Angst for those Awaiting Cast Notice
Today is a second consecutive snow day in Akron. We auditioned HAIRSPRAY last week concluding with a movement audition on Friday. The cast list was announced to be posted at school on Monday. We will not have school until at least Wednesday. The wait is making some of us a little jumpy.
There is now an online drive to post the cast list on Facebook or on the website so that students can relieve the pressure of not knowing. I have so far resisted this urge as it is important that each cast member "sign" to accept their role. I also prefer to have the list not forwarded around the internet in a way that cannot be controlled. We will just have to wait until tomorrow.
In keeping with a the original intent of this blog, a handful of students have been recruited to contribute their thoughts to the theatrical process in the coming months. Today we share the first of these contributions. Enjoy:
maz
FROM ALLY:
My audition experience for Hairspray was quite exciting!
It can give you the nerves a bit having to walk in large room with two people at a table to audition you. This was for the vocal audition. For me personally the vocal/acting audition was exciting! When I saw that I had a call back I was thrilled, until I realized it was a dance call back. To me thats one of my weakest points, so I was extremely nervous. Although when came time to perform my audition I was very confident and danced with a smile. No matter how many times I messed up, I did my best to keep going. I did my best to show that I am able to dance and will be willing to try anything you throw at me.
To me in an audition I try to walk with confidence, no matter how nervous I am on the inside. I try to keep a smile on my face even though I mess. Just keep going. Show you can work around it. Improvise. Also its nice to cheer your friends along and give them reassurance that they did awsome. Its nice to get the same treatment back soo. In all I believe my Hairspray audition went amazing!
The experience was enjoyable, although the waiting is ugh. Though when the cast list comes up no matter what your role is or if your even in the show at all, you always need to know you did your best!
There is now an online drive to post the cast list on Facebook or on the website so that students can relieve the pressure of not knowing. I have so far resisted this urge as it is important that each cast member "sign" to accept their role. I also prefer to have the list not forwarded around the internet in a way that cannot be controlled. We will just have to wait until tomorrow.
In keeping with a the original intent of this blog, a handful of students have been recruited to contribute their thoughts to the theatrical process in the coming months. Today we share the first of these contributions. Enjoy:
maz
FROM ALLY:
My audition experience for Hairspray was quite exciting!
It can give you the nerves a bit having to walk in large room with two people at a table to audition you. This was for the vocal audition. For me personally the vocal/acting audition was exciting! When I saw that I had a call back I was thrilled, until I realized it was a dance call back. To me thats one of my weakest points, so I was extremely nervous. Although when came time to perform my audition I was very confident and danced with a smile. No matter how many times I messed up, I did my best to keep going. I did my best to show that I am able to dance and will be willing to try anything you throw at me.
To me in an audition I try to walk with confidence, no matter how nervous I am on the inside. I try to keep a smile on my face even though I mess. Just keep going. Show you can work around it. Improvise. Also its nice to cheer your friends along and give them reassurance that they did awsome. Its nice to get the same treatment back soo. In all I believe my Hairspray audition went amazing!
The experience was enjoyable, although the waiting is ugh. Though when the cast list comes up no matter what your role is or if your even in the show at all, you always need to know you did your best!
Monday, December 13, 2010
Snow Day Makes for Waiting Game
School was cancelled today for Akron's students, creating another day of anticipation for the many students who auditioned for our upcoming production of HAIRSPRAY.
The audtions were held last week with individual appointments held Monday and Tuesday. Each student sang a song for us and read a brief scene from CURTAINS. We read this scene because we had a book for this show but not for HAIRSPRAY as they had not yet arrived.
On Friday, about 40 students worked with the choreographer on a number of combinations to the song "The Nicest Kids in Town." It was pretty hard word but everyone seemed to have fun.
I sent them home with the knowlege that we would be posting a cast list on Monday . . . except we don't have school. There is probably plenty of nail-biting going on aound west Akron as all of these students are eager to learn of the cast.
It is probably in my best interest to have it on the wall first thing tomorrow morning. But before then, I have got some deciding to do.
maz
The audtions were held last week with individual appointments held Monday and Tuesday. Each student sang a song for us and read a brief scene from CURTAINS. We read this scene because we had a book for this show but not for HAIRSPRAY as they had not yet arrived.
On Friday, about 40 students worked with the choreographer on a number of combinations to the song "The Nicest Kids in Town." It was pretty hard word but everyone seemed to have fun.
I sent them home with the knowlege that we would be posting a cast list on Monday . . . except we don't have school. There is probably plenty of nail-biting going on aound west Akron as all of these students are eager to learn of the cast.
It is probably in my best interest to have it on the wall first thing tomorrow morning. But before then, I have got some deciding to do.
maz
Sunday, November 28, 2010
Friday, November 5, 2010
From the Ohio PTA
ADVOCACY ALERT FROM OHIO PTA
URGE YOUR REPRESENTATIVES TO PASS THE CHILD NUTRITION BILL
The House of Representatives Must Act to Ensure Historic Improvements Are Not Lost
National PTA needs your help to encourage the House of Representatives to vote on S. 3307, the Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act, when they return from the November elections. PTA members should reach out to their representatives to urge swift action on this bill in order to enact its many improvements to child nutrition programs into law.
The Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act increases access to vital anti-hunger measures, improves the nutrition quality of foods served in schools, and provides the supports necessary for school food service workers to meet the needs of American children. The $4.5 billion increase in child nutrition funding over the next ten years provided under the bill is a substantial investment at a time when both child hunger and obesity are at alarming levels. The bill includes common-sense measures to help ensure that both of these trends can be reversed, including supports for the direct certification process, updated nutrition standards for all foods served in schools, increased access to local produce and school gardens, and enhanced notification and engagement of parents and the surrounding community in matters that affect the well-being of students.
It is essential that our nation’s students are provided healthy, nutritious options in school in order for them to reach their physical and academic potential. We need your help to influence Congress and make sure this legislation becomes the priority it must be.
Take Action Today! Contact your Representatives today and let them know that the health of our children cannot wait another year.
Please visit http://capwiz.com/npta2/home
URGE YOUR REPRESENTATIVES TO PASS THE CHILD NUTRITION BILL
The House of Representatives Must Act to Ensure Historic Improvements Are Not Lost
National PTA needs your help to encourage the House of Representatives to vote on S. 3307, the Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act, when they return from the November elections. PTA members should reach out to their representatives to urge swift action on this bill in order to enact its many improvements to child nutrition programs into law.
The Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act increases access to vital anti-hunger measures, improves the nutrition quality of foods served in schools, and provides the supports necessary for school food service workers to meet the needs of American children. The $4.5 billion increase in child nutrition funding over the next ten years provided under the bill is a substantial investment at a time when both child hunger and obesity are at alarming levels. The bill includes common-sense measures to help ensure that both of these trends can be reversed, including supports for the direct certification process, updated nutrition standards for all foods served in schools, increased access to local produce and school gardens, and enhanced notification and engagement of parents and the surrounding community in matters that affect the well-being of students.
It is essential that our nation’s students are provided healthy, nutritious options in school in order for them to reach their physical and academic potential. We need your help to influence Congress and make sure this legislation becomes the priority it must be.
Take Action Today! Contact your Representatives today and let them know that the health of our children cannot wait another year.
Please visit http://capwiz.com/npta2/home
Monday, November 1, 2010
Once More into the Breach, My Friends!
History comes to thrilling life in the upcoming Firestone Theatre production of Shakespeare’s Henry V. This classic play will take our stage on four occasions starting with a preview performance at 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, November 17, 2010. Additional performances will be held at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, November 18; Friday, November 18; and Saturday, October 19, 2010. Admission to the play is $5.00 if purchased in advance and $7.00 at the door on the night of performance. All tickets for the preview performance are $5.00. Advanced tickets are available during all school days from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. in the school’s commons starting Monday, November 15, 2010.
William Shakespeare’s fantastic play tells the story of a young and brash King Henry V of England who takes his nation to war with France. As he leads his troops into combat and experiences the true costs of war firsthand, Henry discovers that the challenges of leadership are greater than he ever imagined. From Henry’s rousing battle speeches to his quieter moments courting the Princess of France, Shakespeare explores what makes a man a king . . . and a king a man.
William Shakespeare’s fantastic play tells the story of a young and brash King Henry V of England who takes his nation to war with France. As he leads his troops into combat and experiences the true costs of war firsthand, Henry discovers that the challenges of leadership are greater than he ever imagined. From Henry’s rousing battle speeches to his quieter moments courting the Princess of France, Shakespeare explores what makes a man a king . . . and a king a man.
Sunday, October 17, 2010
What's Your Line?
Firestone Theatre has a significant online presence. There are three online sites intended for consumption by the general public. You should check them out.
The first and perhaps most important is our newly designed official website. This site can be found at http://www.firestonetheatre.com/ and is intended to be a portal for all things related to theatre education at Firestone High School. There are pages on this site dedicated to our production season and our Thespian Troupe, as well as others. One page is designed specifically for prospective students. The download and link page contains links to many theatre-related sites as well as downloads students might need for class, productions, and Thespian activities.
If you are reading this, you are already aware of the second and possibly third online presence: our blog and our Facebook fan page.
This blog, called THE STAGE WE'RE GOING THROUGH, is a place for us to discuss our activities at greater length and frequency than we can through other outlets. We expect the blog mostly to be read by members of the community interested in learning more about the theatre education available at Firestone High School. We will of course post information about our many productions but also updates from our Thespian activities and extensions of classroom learning. Most blog posts will be written by me but I am hopeful that a few will be written by students who are involved in the activity being discussed. If you scroll down far enough, you will encounter a few posts by students in years past. I hope to get a few students to write a post or two as we continue our work on HENRY V, DEAR GABBY, and SCHOOLHOUSE ROCK -- all of which are currently in rehearsal. This blog is posted automatically as a note on the Firestone Theatre Facebook page.
The Facebook page can be found by searching for Firestone Theatre in the Facebook search engine. This popular page is for patrons and members of the community who want to be kept up-to-date on Firestone Theatre production activities. This page includes information on all of our public performances in addition to our other activities such as the season subscription campaign and the annual spaghetti dinner. Production photos as well as shots from rehearsal and set construction are sometimes posted there. Status updates help to keep fans aware of the day-to-day activities of Firestone Theatre and the Thespian troupe. This blog is automatically posted as a note on the Firestone Theatre Facebook page.
If you are a fan of Firestone Theatre, I invite you to visit these online sites regularly.
maz
The first and perhaps most important is our newly designed official website. This site can be found at http://www.firestonetheatre.com/ and is intended to be a portal for all things related to theatre education at Firestone High School. There are pages on this site dedicated to our production season and our Thespian Troupe, as well as others. One page is designed specifically for prospective students. The download and link page contains links to many theatre-related sites as well as downloads students might need for class, productions, and Thespian activities.
If you are reading this, you are already aware of the second and possibly third online presence: our blog and our Facebook fan page.
This blog, called THE STAGE WE'RE GOING THROUGH, is a place for us to discuss our activities at greater length and frequency than we can through other outlets. We expect the blog mostly to be read by members of the community interested in learning more about the theatre education available at Firestone High School. We will of course post information about our many productions but also updates from our Thespian activities and extensions of classroom learning. Most blog posts will be written by me but I am hopeful that a few will be written by students who are involved in the activity being discussed. If you scroll down far enough, you will encounter a few posts by students in years past. I hope to get a few students to write a post or two as we continue our work on HENRY V, DEAR GABBY, and SCHOOLHOUSE ROCK -- all of which are currently in rehearsal. This blog is posted automatically as a note on the Firestone Theatre Facebook page.
The Facebook page can be found by searching for Firestone Theatre in the Facebook search engine. This popular page is for patrons and members of the community who want to be kept up-to-date on Firestone Theatre production activities. This page includes information on all of our public performances in addition to our other activities such as the season subscription campaign and the annual spaghetti dinner. Production photos as well as shots from rehearsal and set construction are sometimes posted there. Status updates help to keep fans aware of the day-to-day activities of Firestone Theatre and the Thespian troupe. This blog is automatically posted as a note on the Firestone Theatre Facebook page.
If you are a fan of Firestone Theatre, I invite you to visit these online sites regularly.
maz
Saturday, October 16, 2010
The StARS come out at night . . . and other times, as well.
A group of theatre students will gather today to start making plans for the 2010 NE Ohio Thespian Conference. This group will include a handful of Firestone Thespians in addition to students from other schools from around NE Ohio.
This group is called StARS, or Student Area Representatives. They help to plan the area conference that is to be held at Riverside High School in Painesville on Saturday, December 4, 2010. These students will establish the conference's theme and build activities around it. StARS make suggestions to the adult leadership and help to shape the conference in general.
There are no dues to join StARS. There is no initiation. There is no interview or other prerequisites.
All a student needs to become a StAR is the desire to participate in this fun and meaningful Thespian activity. I am gratified that some of our Firestone Thespian students are willing to participate and have taken the first steps toward serving as a leader in our area.
I understand that every StAR who attends each of the three meetings will be refunded their area conference registration. That's a nice perk for a student's time. Even without it, volunteering as a StAR is totally worth the effort.
maz
This group is called StARS, or Student Area Representatives. They help to plan the area conference that is to be held at Riverside High School in Painesville on Saturday, December 4, 2010. These students will establish the conference's theme and build activities around it. StARS make suggestions to the adult leadership and help to shape the conference in general.
There are no dues to join StARS. There is no initiation. There is no interview or other prerequisites.
All a student needs to become a StAR is the desire to participate in this fun and meaningful Thespian activity. I am gratified that some of our Firestone Thespian students are willing to participate and have taken the first steps toward serving as a leader in our area.
I understand that every StAR who attends each of the three meetings will be refunded their area conference registration. That's a nice perk for a student's time. Even without it, volunteering as a StAR is totally worth the effort.
maz
Thursday, October 14, 2010
Walking into the Woods
Earlier today I met briefly with the newly hired education director of the Cleveland Play House as well as several others to discuss an upcoming project.
Firestone Theatre has been invited by the Play House to participate in a newly funded program called Full Contact and I think it will be very exciting. This program is funded by the NEA and is intended to help make connections between the Playhouse and high schools in Northeast Ohio. The goal is to partner 4 schools with 4 separate theatre artists and to create an original piece of theatre based on another piece of art -- a painting, poem, sculpture, etc. The four newly created pieces will be presented at the Play House as a single performance on an as yet undetermined date.
Much more we do not yet know. I never have had a problem walking into the woods without a map and I think this has the potential to be an exciting project.
I basic schedule has been established for a residency in the fall. The rest of the details will be worked out in short order. I don't have a map and I don't know for sure where we are going . . . but I think it is going to be a great, eventful journey.
maz
Firestone Theatre has been invited by the Play House to participate in a newly funded program called Full Contact and I think it will be very exciting. This program is funded by the NEA and is intended to help make connections between the Playhouse and high schools in Northeast Ohio. The goal is to partner 4 schools with 4 separate theatre artists and to create an original piece of theatre based on another piece of art -- a painting, poem, sculpture, etc. The four newly created pieces will be presented at the Play House as a single performance on an as yet undetermined date.
Much more we do not yet know. I never have had a problem walking into the woods without a map and I think this has the potential to be an exciting project.
I basic schedule has been established for a residency in the fall. The rest of the details will be worked out in short order. I don't have a map and I don't know for sure where we are going . . . but I think it is going to be a great, eventful journey.
maz
Monday, October 11, 2010
Rebirth and Renewal
Rehearsals for DEAR GABBY: THE CONFESSIONS OF AN OVER-ACHIEVER began Friday.
This fantastic play by Chris DeCarlo and Evelyn Rudie is a moving and insightful rumination on growing up in a modern world. DEAR GABBY is not a typical "you don't understand me" teenaged play. It is a play that is about our universal experiences that touches our inner being in a sneaky and profound way. I have seen this play move both student and parent to tears.
Firestone Theatre loves this play so much that we have produced it almost every year in rep for ten years. Once we took it to the road performing in Dayton, Ohio, and in front of the playwrights (and others) for two special perfomances at the Santa Monica Playhouse in California. A common practice is for past participants to return and support the latest cast with their presence and remembrances. Last year's productions invited former company members to join the latest cast in a full company bow at the end of each performance. It was a great moment in the theatre as it provided an additional connection between students through their chosen art form.
This year's production of DEAR GABBY has been offered to Akron middle schools and high schools so that we can share its powerful message of acceptance to even more students. So far no schools have expressed the interest but it is early. Feel free to suggest it to middle and high schools who are interested in this sort of thing.
There will be a single public performance of this year's production of DEAR GABBY held on the stage of the Akron Civic Theatre. This performance is scheduled to take place on Wednesday, February 2, 2010.
This year's production of DEAR GABBY is directed by guest artist Elynmarie Kazle who was employed by the Santa Monica Playhouse at the time the play was originally developed and produced. Her understanding of the DEAR GABBY and the playwrights' intent is unparalelled. She brings so much more to the production than just simple direction. Her students are blessed by her passion for and insight into DEAR GABBY. We are blessed to have Elynmarie as a professional resource in our theatre family.
This year's cast features an outstanding group of students who are ready to go on a fantastic journey. Their first read-through is on Friday and I know they are eager to start down a road travelled by many before them. The cast includes seniors Caeli Droge and hayley Hineline; junior Marissa Wilson; sophomores Amelia Britton, Sierrah Jesiolowski, Aaron Eckhardt, DeAndre Haiston, Jada Langston, and Moe McHargh; and freshman Lani Skelley.
maz
This fantastic play by Chris DeCarlo and Evelyn Rudie is a moving and insightful rumination on growing up in a modern world. DEAR GABBY is not a typical "you don't understand me" teenaged play. It is a play that is about our universal experiences that touches our inner being in a sneaky and profound way. I have seen this play move both student and parent to tears.
Firestone Theatre loves this play so much that we have produced it almost every year in rep for ten years. Once we took it to the road performing in Dayton, Ohio, and in front of the playwrights (and others) for two special perfomances at the Santa Monica Playhouse in California. A common practice is for past participants to return and support the latest cast with their presence and remembrances. Last year's productions invited former company members to join the latest cast in a full company bow at the end of each performance. It was a great moment in the theatre as it provided an additional connection between students through their chosen art form.
This year's production of DEAR GABBY has been offered to Akron middle schools and high schools so that we can share its powerful message of acceptance to even more students. So far no schools have expressed the interest but it is early. Feel free to suggest it to middle and high schools who are interested in this sort of thing.
There will be a single public performance of this year's production of DEAR GABBY held on the stage of the Akron Civic Theatre. This performance is scheduled to take place on Wednesday, February 2, 2010.
This year's production of DEAR GABBY is directed by guest artist Elynmarie Kazle who was employed by the Santa Monica Playhouse at the time the play was originally developed and produced. Her understanding of the DEAR GABBY and the playwrights' intent is unparalelled. She brings so much more to the production than just simple direction. Her students are blessed by her passion for and insight into DEAR GABBY. We are blessed to have Elynmarie as a professional resource in our theatre family.
This year's cast features an outstanding group of students who are ready to go on a fantastic journey. Their first read-through is on Friday and I know they are eager to start down a road travelled by many before them. The cast includes seniors Caeli Droge and hayley Hineline; junior Marissa Wilson; sophomores Amelia Britton, Sierrah Jesiolowski, Aaron Eckhardt, DeAndre Haiston, Jada Langston, and Moe McHargh; and freshman Lani Skelley.
maz
Sunday, October 10, 2010
Take me to your Leader
I spent Saturday with six of our Thespians as they attended Troupe Development Day . . . which used to be called the Leadership Conference. I don't know anything about the name change but I do know the change the experience has brought about in the Firestone Thespians who attended.
The discussion was fast and furious in the car on the way home as the majority of our Thespian officers explored verbally their role in the remainder of this school year.
I have always thought that Thespians provided an unusual opportunity for student leadership. It is a student theatre group, guided by a student-written constitution but led by elected student officers and representatives. I create structure for the officers, remind them of appropriate by-laws, and provide the necessary adult supervision but the planning is up to them. But the officers lead the troupe.
Saturday's activities seem to have lit a fire in the Firestone students who attended. I am looking forward to where it leads.
Troupe Development Day is sponsored by the Ohio Educational Theatre Association. Their website can be found here.
maz
The discussion was fast and furious in the car on the way home as the majority of our Thespian officers explored verbally their role in the remainder of this school year.
I have always thought that Thespians provided an unusual opportunity for student leadership. It is a student theatre group, guided by a student-written constitution but led by elected student officers and representatives. I create structure for the officers, remind them of appropriate by-laws, and provide the necessary adult supervision but the planning is up to them. But the officers lead the troupe.
Saturday's activities seem to have lit a fire in the Firestone students who attended. I am looking forward to where it leads.
Troupe Development Day is sponsored by the Ohio Educational Theatre Association. Their website can be found here.
maz
Saturday, October 2, 2010
Tape This. Copy That.
We do not videotape our shows. Not for archival or any other purpose. While I recognize the sentimental value this practice has for many parents, I also understand the concept of copyright protection and intellectual property. I know that when we produce a play or musical that we do not own its mechanical rights and therefore are not permitted to record it in any fashion.
I am regularly asked by parents and students if we videotape mostly I think because so many others do. I know of at least one school whose shows are taped and later exhibited on the local cable TV outlet. Others regularly make DVDs to sell to parents and fans. Others only make one copy for their "archives." All these schools are in violation of copyright regulations and may open themselves up to being sued in civil court.
I know that we can find thousands of school performances on YouTube. These clips can be a valuable resource when researching a particular show. However, plain and simple they are a violation of the copyright regulations. I struggle to ensure that clips of Firestone Theatre productions are not among them. I simply refuse to take this risk.
Every performance contract I have signed includes a clause specifically forbidding the taping of the work. To do so anyway violates the contract and might subject the school to a substantial fine or a moratorium -- meaning the publishing company may refuse to work with you in the future.
Firestone Theatre has never made a video version of a copyrighted work. The only time we have taped a show is when we owned everything: material, music, staging, artwork, etc. We taped the only original show we produced, Just Passing Thru, a collaboration with local artist Miller Horns. We did so mostly at Miller's insistence. We taped our recent production of Macbeth because we could. Shakespeare is not subject to copyright regulation and we had music written and performed specifically for our show.
I recently came across yet another online article explaining some of the myths about copyright laws. While this article is informative, it does not directly address the disturbingly common practice of videotaping theatre productions. Here is a the link. Check it out to better educate yourself about this complicated issue.
I am regularly asked by parents and students if we videotape mostly I think because so many others do. I know of at least one school whose shows are taped and later exhibited on the local cable TV outlet. Others regularly make DVDs to sell to parents and fans. Others only make one copy for their "archives." All these schools are in violation of copyright regulations and may open themselves up to being sued in civil court.
I know that we can find thousands of school performances on YouTube. These clips can be a valuable resource when researching a particular show. However, plain and simple they are a violation of the copyright regulations. I struggle to ensure that clips of Firestone Theatre productions are not among them. I simply refuse to take this risk.
Every performance contract I have signed includes a clause specifically forbidding the taping of the work. To do so anyway violates the contract and might subject the school to a substantial fine or a moratorium -- meaning the publishing company may refuse to work with you in the future.
Firestone Theatre has never made a video version of a copyrighted work. The only time we have taped a show is when we owned everything: material, music, staging, artwork, etc. We taped the only original show we produced, Just Passing Thru, a collaboration with local artist Miller Horns. We did so mostly at Miller's insistence. We taped our recent production of Macbeth because we could. Shakespeare is not subject to copyright regulation and we had music written and performed specifically for our show.
I recently came across yet another online article explaining some of the myths about copyright laws. While this article is informative, it does not directly address the disturbingly common practice of videotaping theatre productions. Here is a the link. Check it out to better educate yourself about this complicated issue.
Sunday, September 26, 2010
The King is Dead. Long Live the King.
One show is put to bed as others are just waking from a long slumber.
Our successful production of THE PIANO LESSON closed last night in front of an appreciative audience after a brief but satisfying three-night run. The cast and crew should be proud of the work they completed on this exciting piece of theatre. Our gurst director, Miss Jennifer Kay Jeter, is to commended for leading her charges on a challenging journey through this piece pf theatre.
Monday after school we hold auditions for two plays: DEAR GABBY: THE CONFESSIONS OF AN OVER-ACHIEVER and our main stage production of Shakespeare's THE LIFE OF KING HENRY THE FIFTH. Both plays should be an exciting experience for all involved.
As we take down the set and store the props, we will also be thinking about our next shows. Hopefully you are, too.
Check out the details on our newly designed website at http://www.firestonetheatre.com/
Our successful production of THE PIANO LESSON closed last night in front of an appreciative audience after a brief but satisfying three-night run. The cast and crew should be proud of the work they completed on this exciting piece of theatre. Our gurst director, Miss Jennifer Kay Jeter, is to commended for leading her charges on a challenging journey through this piece pf theatre.
Monday after school we hold auditions for two plays: DEAR GABBY: THE CONFESSIONS OF AN OVER-ACHIEVER and our main stage production of Shakespeare's THE LIFE OF KING HENRY THE FIFTH. Both plays should be an exciting experience for all involved.
As we take down the set and store the props, we will also be thinking about our next shows. Hopefully you are, too.
Check out the details on our newly designed website at http://www.firestonetheatre.com/
Friday, September 24, 2010
A fine cast lines up for THE PIANO LESSON
Here are the cast bios from our current show (and the director, too):
Sunetrius “Sunshine” Armstrong (Maretha) is a fifth grader at Miller South School of the Visual and Performing Arts and is excited to appear in her first play. She loves to swim, ride her bike, and play softball. Sunshine plays on the Diamond Dogs softball team and has enjoyed her time on the Firestone stage.
Jeremy Alexander Clarke (Avery) is a senior VPA Theatre student who is very excited to return to the FHS stage. He most recently appeared in the North Canton Playhouse production of The Wedding Singer and also appeared in our production of Sweeney Todd. Jeremy plans to study musical theatre in college. He thanks his mom, Lisa, Marci, Brenton, and his whole North Canton Playhouse family.
Shamara Costa (Berniece) is a senior VPA Theatre student who also sings in Symphonic Choir. She has appeared in our recent Summer Theatre Project, The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, in addition to Firestone Theatre productions of Sweeney Todd, 1001 Afternoons in Chicago, and Noises Off.
LaSosha Rayshell Edwards (stage manager) is a senior VPA Theatre student who is currently the vice president fo the Thespian Troupe. She plans to pursue a medical degree in college.
Dred Geib (prop designer) is a junior VPA Technical Theatre student who has worked on many of our productions as well as productions with New World Performance Lab.
Kaylah Green (Grace) is a senior VPA Choral Music student who has previously appeared in our productions of Sweeney Todd and Crowns. She also sings in Women’s Chorus, Vocal Jazz, Madrigals, and Symphonic Choir. Kaylah is happy to return to the Firestone stage.
DeAndre Hairston (Lymon Jackson) is a sophomore VPA Theatre student appearing in his first Firestone Theatre production.
Greg Hill (Whining Boy) is a sophomore VPA Theatre student appearing in his third Firestone Theatre production. He appeared in last year’s Dear Gabby and 1001 Afternoons in Chicago.
Zoe Sapienza (assistant stage manager) is a sophomore VPA Theatre student. She recently served as the Stage Manager for the Summer Theatre Project, The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee. Zoe has appeared onstage in Dear Gabby and The One-Act Play Festival. She appeared as Robin Starveling in Weathervane’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream and as Kitty Bennet in Pride and Prejudice.
Stacee Starr (Doaker) is a senior VPA Visual Art appearing onstage in his first Firestone Theatre production. He has been on sound crew for our productions of 1001 Afternoons in Chicago and Sweeney Todd and aspires to be a theatrical set designer.
Denzel Washington (Boy Willie) is a senior VPA Theatre student who has appeared in many Firestone Theatre productions. He was seen in last year’s productions of Sweeney Todd and Noises Off. Denzel sings in the Madrigals and Symphonic Choir. Denzel is an active member of Firestone’s men’s Step Team.
Jennifer Kay Jeter (director) returns for her fifth stint directing at Firestone Theatre with August Wilson’s The Piano Lesson. She began her directorial work at the home of the Falcons in 2000 with The Amen Corner, followed by On Strivers Row in 2001, for colored girls who have considered suicide when the rainbow is enuf… in 2005 and Crowns in 2007. Miss Jeter is a performance artist, director, writer and scenographer in Ohio. A native of Akron, she attended Central Hower High School, and went on to earn both her bachelors and masters degrees from the University of Akron, concentrating on performance art. Her thesis entitled The Rites of Being: An Analytical Review of Performance Art as a Theatrical Form explored this experimental art form by documenting its history, its individualistic style, and how it is effected by and, in turn, affects society. Miss Jeter has worked in educational, community, and professional theatre. Miss Jeter’s intent as an artist is to research, document, and educate individuals regarding their economical, political, racial and cultural consciousness through art.
maz
Sunetrius “Sunshine” Armstrong (Maretha) is a fifth grader at Miller South School of the Visual and Performing Arts and is excited to appear in her first play. She loves to swim, ride her bike, and play softball. Sunshine plays on the Diamond Dogs softball team and has enjoyed her time on the Firestone stage.
Jeremy Alexander Clarke (Avery) is a senior VPA Theatre student who is very excited to return to the FHS stage. He most recently appeared in the North Canton Playhouse production of The Wedding Singer and also appeared in our production of Sweeney Todd. Jeremy plans to study musical theatre in college. He thanks his mom, Lisa, Marci, Brenton, and his whole North Canton Playhouse family.
Shamara Costa (Berniece) is a senior VPA Theatre student who also sings in Symphonic Choir. She has appeared in our recent Summer Theatre Project, The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, in addition to Firestone Theatre productions of Sweeney Todd, 1001 Afternoons in Chicago, and Noises Off.
LaSosha Rayshell Edwards (stage manager) is a senior VPA Theatre student who is currently the vice president fo the Thespian Troupe. She plans to pursue a medical degree in college.
Dred Geib (prop designer) is a junior VPA Technical Theatre student who has worked on many of our productions as well as productions with New World Performance Lab.
Kaylah Green (Grace) is a senior VPA Choral Music student who has previously appeared in our productions of Sweeney Todd and Crowns. She also sings in Women’s Chorus, Vocal Jazz, Madrigals, and Symphonic Choir. Kaylah is happy to return to the Firestone stage.
DeAndre Hairston (Lymon Jackson) is a sophomore VPA Theatre student appearing in his first Firestone Theatre production.
Greg Hill (Whining Boy) is a sophomore VPA Theatre student appearing in his third Firestone Theatre production. He appeared in last year’s Dear Gabby and 1001 Afternoons in Chicago.
Zoe Sapienza (assistant stage manager) is a sophomore VPA Theatre student. She recently served as the Stage Manager for the Summer Theatre Project, The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee. Zoe has appeared onstage in Dear Gabby and The One-Act Play Festival. She appeared as Robin Starveling in Weathervane’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream and as Kitty Bennet in Pride and Prejudice.
Stacee Starr (Doaker) is a senior VPA Visual Art appearing onstage in his first Firestone Theatre production. He has been on sound crew for our productions of 1001 Afternoons in Chicago and Sweeney Todd and aspires to be a theatrical set designer.
Denzel Washington (Boy Willie) is a senior VPA Theatre student who has appeared in many Firestone Theatre productions. He was seen in last year’s productions of Sweeney Todd and Noises Off. Denzel sings in the Madrigals and Symphonic Choir. Denzel is an active member of Firestone’s men’s Step Team.
Jennifer Kay Jeter (director) returns for her fifth stint directing at Firestone Theatre with August Wilson’s The Piano Lesson. She began her directorial work at the home of the Falcons in 2000 with The Amen Corner, followed by On Strivers Row in 2001, for colored girls who have considered suicide when the rainbow is enuf… in 2005 and Crowns in 2007. Miss Jeter is a performance artist, director, writer and scenographer in Ohio. A native of Akron, she attended Central Hower High School, and went on to earn both her bachelors and masters degrees from the University of Akron, concentrating on performance art. Her thesis entitled The Rites of Being: An Analytical Review of Performance Art as a Theatrical Form explored this experimental art form by documenting its history, its individualistic style, and how it is effected by and, in turn, affects society. Miss Jeter has worked in educational, community, and professional theatre. Miss Jeter’s intent as an artist is to research, document, and educate individuals regarding their economical, political, racial and cultural consciousness through art.
maz
Thursday, September 23, 2010
Get Your Notes from the Director
Courtesy of Miss Jennifer Kay Jeter, guest director:
The value of August Wilson’s THE PIANO LESSON as a teaching tool is unparalleled. Wilson is known for his careful dialogue structure. What may seem like random conversation at first read is actually brilliant construction that mimics the functional dysfunction within this particular group of characters.
Wilson allows the audience to peek at a segment of African Americans in the 1930s in Pittsburgh. Far enough North of the Mason Dixon line to escape the pressure of Jim Crow but never far enough away to escape their personal family history built from slavery, poverty and deceit.
Most importantly, in THE PIANO LESSON, Wilson writes about the importance of legacy. Like each of the eight characters that you will meet this evening, you have been gifted remnants from your predecessors’ lives and will in turn leave your own mark for future generations. What is your responsibility if any to future generations? There is no right or wrong answer. It is simply your story to tell.
FROM ME:
You have three chances to see this fantastic show. Tickets are available at the door.
Look to http://www.firestonetheatre.com/ for details.
maz
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
Theatre is Hard
Theatre is hard work.
It’s true. Anyone who has done it for very long knows it’s true. But sometimes I tire easily of the discussion. We know how hard making theatre is so I try not to talk about it too much.
But, here we are on the first day of the fourth week of school. We are most of the way through the second dress rehearsal for a show that will be done before we record our first interim reports. I am not going to tell you how hard it is . . . but I will indulge in a brief discussion about how fast all this has been.
We have never put a show as early in the year as we are putting up THE PIANO LESSON and it has posed numerous problems that have had to be solved in a timely fashion. The set has to go up fast, the actors have to learn their lines fast, and the posters have to be made and put up fast. The props have to be collected fast, the lights have to be hung and focused early, and the sound cues have to be recorded fast.
It’s all the same amount of work but it just has to be done faster.
In a few days it is up to you to buy your tickets and enjoy this fantastic production of August Wilson’s Pulitzer Prize-winning drama. We may have done this show fast but the kids have worked hard and deserve a good audience.
Make plans to see THE PIANO LESSON on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. Check out the details at www.FirestoneTheatre.com if you need to know more.
Sunday, September 19, 2010
There is HAIRSPRAY, yes, but So Much More, too
I have never seen anything like it.
The recent announcement that we had picked up the rights to the outstandingly popular HAIRSPRAY has illicited more excitement than I would have thought possible. In fact, the initial response to one of my classes prompted so much celebration and unadulterated joy that one administrator immediately rushed into the room to find out what the commotion was about.
It was a moment of spontaneity and freedom that everyone should experience regularly.
Everyone seems to be talking about HAIRSPRAY in the halls and in class. People are making plans for auditions. Others are talking about how much scenery the show might require. Others are already imagining the costumes or the new confetti cannons.
Even though I, myself, get caught up in the excitement, I must remind myself and others that there is a lot of ground to cover between now and then. We have a full season of theatre to produce and HAIRSPRAY is the final float in the parade.
Just take a look:
THE PIANO LESSON is in dress rehearsals right now.
Auditions for HENRY V and DEAR GABBY: The Confessions of an Over-Achiever are next week.
Rehearsals for SCHOOL HOUSE ROCK LIVE begin next Tuesday.
Some people are looking forward to the ONE-ACT PLAY FESTIVAL in January.
Others are looking to make their mark in the ALL-SCHOOL TALENT SHOW also in January.
DEAR GABBY is set to make its single public performance at the Civic Theatre in February.
Official plans need to be made for our very first STUDENT FILM FESTIVAL.
Finally, there are plenty of THESPIAN activities to undertake including three conferences, several social activities, and a field trip to the Great Lakes Theatre Festival.
All of this happens or must be planned before HAIRSPRAY hits the boards. I think the excitement will be tempered somewhat as we move through all of these activities. But it will not be long before auditions come around and things will start to get really crazy.
Help me out. Buy a subscription to this fantastic season including what is sure to be a fantastic production of HAIRSPRAY. Our imminent production of August Wilson's THE PIANO LESSON is going to be good, too, and deserves to have a good audience . . . even if most of the audience is really looking forward to HAIRSPRAY.
The subscription order form can be found on the "download" page of our newly designed website.
Look for it at www.FirestoneTheatre.com.
maz
The recent announcement that we had picked up the rights to the outstandingly popular HAIRSPRAY has illicited more excitement than I would have thought possible. In fact, the initial response to one of my classes prompted so much celebration and unadulterated joy that one administrator immediately rushed into the room to find out what the commotion was about.
It was a moment of spontaneity and freedom that everyone should experience regularly.
Everyone seems to be talking about HAIRSPRAY in the halls and in class. People are making plans for auditions. Others are talking about how much scenery the show might require. Others are already imagining the costumes or the new confetti cannons.
Even though I, myself, get caught up in the excitement, I must remind myself and others that there is a lot of ground to cover between now and then. We have a full season of theatre to produce and HAIRSPRAY is the final float in the parade.
Just take a look:
THE PIANO LESSON is in dress rehearsals right now.
Auditions for HENRY V and DEAR GABBY: The Confessions of an Over-Achiever are next week.
Rehearsals for SCHOOL HOUSE ROCK LIVE begin next Tuesday.
Some people are looking forward to the ONE-ACT PLAY FESTIVAL in January.
Others are looking to make their mark in the ALL-SCHOOL TALENT SHOW also in January.
DEAR GABBY is set to make its single public performance at the Civic Theatre in February.
Official plans need to be made for our very first STUDENT FILM FESTIVAL.
Finally, there are plenty of THESPIAN activities to undertake including three conferences, several social activities, and a field trip to the Great Lakes Theatre Festival.
All of this happens or must be planned before HAIRSPRAY hits the boards. I think the excitement will be tempered somewhat as we move through all of these activities. But it will not be long before auditions come around and things will start to get really crazy.
Help me out. Buy a subscription to this fantastic season including what is sure to be a fantastic production of HAIRSPRAY. Our imminent production of August Wilson's THE PIANO LESSON is going to be good, too, and deserves to have a good audience . . . even if most of the audience is really looking forward to HAIRSPRAY.
The subscription order form can be found on the "download" page of our newly designed website.
Look for it at www.FirestoneTheatre.com.
maz
Sunday, September 12, 2010
Even More Change than We Thought
On Friday I signed the performance contract that will allow Firestone Theatre to present HAIRSPRAY as our musical in March.
We are no longer presenting THOROUGHLY MODERN MILLIE and instead are set to present the very popular show that just recently became available for amateur performances.
The reason for this change is both simple and complicated. I have been trying to secure the rights to HAIRSPRAY for three years. My repeated requests have been answered with e-mails from increasingly important people in the offices of MTI, the company that licenses the show.
In April, we were told the show was finally available and for a brief, shining moment we thought we could add it to the 2010-2011 season. However, it was not too long before I was told that a "professional" theatre in our area had locked up the exclusive rights and that HAIRSPRAY unfortunately would not be available to us this year.
We took a deep breathe and retreated to the shows that remained on our list. THOROUGHLY MODERN MILLIE was selected with respect for its pedigree and its potential to be a fantastic show for us.
But, wonders of wonders, on Friday I received a call from our MTI rep saying that their had been a "change" and that HAIRSPRAY would be available for us in March after all. I considered it for a few minutes, looked over the contract, and of course signed it. It's done. We are a HAIRSPRAY school in March, 2011!
The MTI site lists theatres that have active contracts for each of their shows. I looked through that list for HAISPRAY and saw just one other Ohio school that is set to present the show. We are not there yet, but we will be before too long. Check it out for yourself.
Buy your subscription. They are just $25.00 for adults and $20.00 for students. A form can be downloaded at website at http://www.firestonetheatre.com/
We are no longer presenting THOROUGHLY MODERN MILLIE and instead are set to present the very popular show that just recently became available for amateur performances.
The reason for this change is both simple and complicated. I have been trying to secure the rights to HAIRSPRAY for three years. My repeated requests have been answered with e-mails from increasingly important people in the offices of MTI, the company that licenses the show.
In April, we were told the show was finally available and for a brief, shining moment we thought we could add it to the 2010-2011 season. However, it was not too long before I was told that a "professional" theatre in our area had locked up the exclusive rights and that HAIRSPRAY unfortunately would not be available to us this year.
We took a deep breathe and retreated to the shows that remained on our list. THOROUGHLY MODERN MILLIE was selected with respect for its pedigree and its potential to be a fantastic show for us.
But, wonders of wonders, on Friday I received a call from our MTI rep saying that their had been a "change" and that HAIRSPRAY would be available for us in March after all. I considered it for a few minutes, looked over the contract, and of course signed it. It's done. We are a HAIRSPRAY school in March, 2011!
The MTI site lists theatres that have active contracts for each of their shows. I looked through that list for HAISPRAY and saw just one other Ohio school that is set to present the show. We are not there yet, but we will be before too long. Check it out for yourself.
Buy your subscription. They are just $25.00 for adults and $20.00 for students. A form can be downloaded at website at http://www.firestonetheatre.com/
Thursday, September 9, 2010
Fall is a Season of Change . . . even for our little theatre
Firestone Theatre presents a full season of plays and musicals every school year. Each season is filled with theatre that is challenging to both our audience and students. All theatre lovers can see our entire season at a bargain price by taking advantage of our season subscription.
This year’s season kicks off with August Wilson’s classic play, The Piano Lesson, on September 22, 23, 24, and 25. In this play, a rich family history with origins in slavery is carved into the wood of the piano that could be Boy Willie’s ticket to self-sufficiency or Berniece’s legacy to her daughter. The Piano Lesson is the story of two siblings’ struggle to come to terms with their inheritance and the ghosts of their dead.
The action and poetry of William Shakespeare takes the stage with The History of Henry the Fifth on November 10, 11, 12, and 13, 2010. Young and brash King Henry V of England takes his nation to war with France. As he leads his troops into combat and experiences the true costs of war firsthand, Henry discovers that the challenges of leadership are greater than he ever imagined.
This year’s musical is the fantastically entertaining Thoroughly Modern Millie to be presented March 2, 3, 4, and 5, 2011. Taking place in New York City in 1922, Thoroughly Modern Millie tells the story of young Millie Dillmount, who has just moved to the city in search of a new life for herself. This musical features new music by Jeanine Tesori and new lyrics by Dick Scanlon. It also features a book by Richard Morris and Scanlon.
The season also includes the annual One-Act Play Festival to be held on Thursday, January 6, 2011.
The Annual Spring Dance Concert under the direction of FHS dance director Kelly Berick will be held April 8 and 9, 2011.
The Akron High School Film Festival is also included as part of the season on Friday, March 18, 2011
A season subscription is available to students for just $20.00 and to adults for $25.00. Look for complete information on the newly designed website at www.FirestoneTheatre.com.
Wednesday, September 8, 2010
There are Many Lessons to Be Learned
Everybody learns something in this lesson. August Wilson’s play The Piano Lesson takes the stage for three performances this month at Firestone High School.
Performances are set for 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, September 23; Friday, September 24; and Saturday, September 25, 2010.
Tickets for The Piano Lesson will be available at the door on the night of each performance for $7.00.
Advanced tickets are an entertainment bargain as they cost just $5.00. All advanced tickets are available in the school’s commons from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. starting no later than Monday, September 22, 2010.
Advanced order forms for The Piano Lesson can be downloaded at www.FirestoneTheatre.com.
Performances are set for 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, September 23; Friday, September 24; and Saturday, September 25, 2010.
Tickets for The Piano Lesson will be available at the door on the night of each performance for $7.00.
Advanced tickets are an entertainment bargain as they cost just $5.00. All advanced tickets are available in the school’s commons from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. starting no later than Monday, September 22, 2010.
Advanced order forms for The Piano Lesson can be downloaded at www.FirestoneTheatre.com.
Saturday, September 4, 2010
New Plans and New Designs
Firestone Theatre is set to open in its new season on Thursday, September 23, 2010, with an outstanding production of August Wilson's play THE PIANO LESSON.
This fantastic play is under the direction of guest artist Jennifer Kay Jeter and features some of the finest actors available in the award-winning performing arts program at Firestone High School. Performances of THE PIANO LESSON are set for 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, September 23; Friday, September 24; and Saturday, September 25, 2010.
Tickets will be available at the door on the night of performance for 7:00 p.m. Advanced tickets are just $5.00!
Deatils for this production and the rest of the season are available on the newly designed website found at http://www.firestonetheatre.com/.
Firestone High School is located at 333 Rampart Avenue, Akron, 44313. Call the theatre office at 330-873-3408 for additional information.
This fantastic play is under the direction of guest artist Jennifer Kay Jeter and features some of the finest actors available in the award-winning performing arts program at Firestone High School. Performances of THE PIANO LESSON are set for 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, September 23; Friday, September 24; and Saturday, September 25, 2010.
Tickets will be available at the door on the night of performance for 7:00 p.m. Advanced tickets are just $5.00!
Deatils for this production and the rest of the season are available on the newly designed website found at http://www.firestonetheatre.com/.
Firestone High School is located at 333 Rampart Avenue, Akron, 44313. Call the theatre office at 330-873-3408 for additional information.
Monday, July 12, 2010
What's not to Like?
Thoughts on the Akron Summer Theatre Project, i.e. what did we learn?
It can be done. We now know that we can present theatre in the summer (and in the LIA) and that people will come to see it. We now have a foundation on which future work can be built.
Students benefit from the opporunity to participate. Several of the students involved in the process appeared on our stage (or backstage) for the very first time or in a major part for the first time. Most of our students made giant leaps forward in their understanding of the creative process. There was simply a lot of leaning involved in the Akron Summer Theatre Project.
Rough theatre can be exciting. It was fun to carve a theatre out of an empty room. Figuring out the stage, sound, and lights adds a level of creativity not generally available in a more typical theatre environment.
We can't do it alone. Good theatre is always a collaborative art form and those collaborators are more important when you are doing something totally It was a joy to work togther with colleagues such as Barbara Bellamy, Scot Sexton, and Rachel Galambos. Welcoming alumni such as Trishah Snowden and Stephen Carder back to our stage was a thrill. Working with new folks such as Alan Higbee, Marc Dusini, and Mathew Gilbert opens a door through which many good things may enter as time moved on. Each of these folks brought something to our process that made us all better artists.
Further, many others took on tasks and provided spiritual support to help produce and promote the show. While it would be nearly impossible to name each one of them, they should not go unrecognized.
We welcome support from other community organizations. We rehearsed at venues as varied as the NW Akron Family Recreation Center, the First Baptist Church of Akron, and Weathervane Community Playhouse. We have had a relationship with each of these organizations for years but their support helped to legitimize their commitment to educational theatre. We are stronger because they are in our neighborhood.
It can be done. We now know that we can present theatre in the summer (and in the LIA) and that people will come to see it. We now have a foundation on which future work can be built.
Students benefit from the opporunity to participate. Several of the students involved in the process appeared on our stage (or backstage) for the very first time or in a major part for the first time. Most of our students made giant leaps forward in their understanding of the creative process. There was simply a lot of leaning involved in the Akron Summer Theatre Project.
Rough theatre can be exciting. It was fun to carve a theatre out of an empty room. Figuring out the stage, sound, and lights adds a level of creativity not generally available in a more typical theatre environment.
We can't do it alone. Good theatre is always a collaborative art form and those collaborators are more important when you are doing something totally It was a joy to work togther with colleagues such as Barbara Bellamy, Scot Sexton, and Rachel Galambos. Welcoming alumni such as Trishah Snowden and Stephen Carder back to our stage was a thrill. Working with new folks such as Alan Higbee, Marc Dusini, and Mathew Gilbert opens a door through which many good things may enter as time moved on. Each of these folks brought something to our process that made us all better artists.
Further, many others took on tasks and provided spiritual support to help produce and promote the show. While it would be nearly impossible to name each one of them, they should not go unrecognized.
We welcome support from other community organizations. We rehearsed at venues as varied as the NW Akron Family Recreation Center, the First Baptist Church of Akron, and Weathervane Community Playhouse. We have had a relationship with each of these organizations for years but their support helped to legitimize their commitment to educational theatre. We are stronger because they are in our neighborhood.
Sunday, July 11, 2010
Five for Five
Last night we closed the first Akron Summer Theatre Project as our production of THE 25th ANNUAL PUTNAM COUNTY SPELLING BEE completed its run of five public performances.
This project was conceived as a way to extend the classroom and provide a platform for learning in a way not typically possible during the school year. The Akron Summer Theatre Project is intended to provide students the opportunity to work side-by-side with talented alumni and experienced members of the theatre community on a production that we would not typically present as part of the Firestone Theatre season. In this way, the project clearly was a smashing success. Most of the students involved in the project made giant leaps forward in their performance and theatrical experience.
In THE 25th ANNUAL PUTNAM COUNTY SPELLING BEE, our students were able to work on an excellent modern musical that is simply too small to be presented successfully in our barn of a theatre. The LIA was an inspired venue choice with its functional air conditioning and cabaret-style proximity of performer and audience. It seats around 100 people which seems to be just about the perfect size for what we are doing. We were able to transform a large classroom into a theatre space that benefitted both the audience and the performance. Many member so the audience expressed their satisfaction with the space and told me that it was a good idea to use the LIA as a theatre.
It would not have been possible, of course, without the support of some very talented people who have donated their time and talent to the project. I had the pleasure of working with a fine group of people who were there to have fun and to work hard. Roles onstage and offstage were filled with talented, dedicated artists who took the project seriously like the professionals they truly are or aspire to be. Many thanks to each of them who signed on for the grand experiment and made magic happen with sticks and string. Thanks, too, to the students who jumped into this pool with both feet and never looked back. The show was well attended by patrons who enjoyed the enthusiasm of our cast and crew. Many expressed their admiration for the project.
I think we all have hopes that this is just the start of something that might have a long, successful life. When it does, we can each say we were there at the beginning.
This project was conceived as a way to extend the classroom and provide a platform for learning in a way not typically possible during the school year. The Akron Summer Theatre Project is intended to provide students the opportunity to work side-by-side with talented alumni and experienced members of the theatre community on a production that we would not typically present as part of the Firestone Theatre season. In this way, the project clearly was a smashing success. Most of the students involved in the project made giant leaps forward in their performance and theatrical experience.
In THE 25th ANNUAL PUTNAM COUNTY SPELLING BEE, our students were able to work on an excellent modern musical that is simply too small to be presented successfully in our barn of a theatre. The LIA was an inspired venue choice with its functional air conditioning and cabaret-style proximity of performer and audience. It seats around 100 people which seems to be just about the perfect size for what we are doing. We were able to transform a large classroom into a theatre space that benefitted both the audience and the performance. Many member so the audience expressed their satisfaction with the space and told me that it was a good idea to use the LIA as a theatre.
It would not have been possible, of course, without the support of some very talented people who have donated their time and talent to the project. I had the pleasure of working with a fine group of people who were there to have fun and to work hard. Roles onstage and offstage were filled with talented, dedicated artists who took the project seriously like the professionals they truly are or aspire to be. Many thanks to each of them who signed on for the grand experiment and made magic happen with sticks and string. Thanks, too, to the students who jumped into this pool with both feet and never looked back. The show was well attended by patrons who enjoyed the enthusiasm of our cast and crew. Many expressed their admiration for the project.
I think we all have hopes that this is just the start of something that might have a long, successful life. When it does, we can each say we were there at the beginning.
Friday, July 9, 2010
An outstanding SPELLING BEE company
Here are the bios for our cast and crew of THE 25th ANNUAL PUTNAM COUNTY SPELLING BEE. As I type this, there are just three performances remaining: Friday at 7:30 p.m. and Saturday at 4:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Tickets remain at the door for each.
Jon Bozeka (William Barfee) is a junior VPA Vocal Music student appearing in his sixth FHS production. He also sings with the Madrigals, Vocal Jazz, Symphonic Chior, and Mens Chorus. Jon has taken both voice and piano lessons from Sandra Schlub. He has enjoyed participating in the Akron Summer Theatre Project.
Shamara Costa (Olive Ostrovsky) is a senior VPA Theatre student appearing in her fourth FHS production. She was most recently seen as Mrs. Lovett in our production of Sweeney Todd. Shamara loves the stage and intends to attend college and pursue a career in musical theatre. She is pleased to have devoted a portion of her summer to this production.
Morgan Csejtey (assistant stage manager) is an eighth grade drama student at Miller South School for the Arts. She has been involved with theatre since she was seven and has loved every moment. Morgan has enjoyed working on Spelling Bee very much and looks forward to many more experiences with the Akron Summer Theatre Project.
Zoe Dong (Marcy Park) is a sophomore VPA Visual Art student appearing in her first FHS production. She studies at the Dance Institute on the campus of the Univeristy of Akron. Zoe has had lots of fun here with the awesome cast and crew of Putnam.
Marc Dusini (Douglas Panch) has appeared in many community theatre productions in Summit, Medina, and Cuyahoga counties. This is his first time with Firestone Theatre and it has been a wonderful experience. He currently serves on the board of The Western Reserve Playhouse in Bath Township.
Caeli Droge (Marcy Park) is a senior VPA Theatre student appearing in her third Firestone Theatre production. She previously appeared in Stage Door and The Producers. Caeli sings in the Symphonic Choir and plays violin. She is an active member of the Venturing Crew.
Matt Gilbert is a senior at Berea High School. He has appeared in productions of You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown, The Music Man, Little Shop of Horrors, and Alice in Wonderland. Matt thanks the Firestone Theatre community for welcoming him with open arms.
Hayley Hineline (Logainne Schwartzandgruenierre) is a senior VPA Theatre student and is the secretary of the Thespian Troupe. This is her 6th Firestone production. Hayley has performed in over a dozen shows in NE Ohio including Annie, The Wizard of Oz, and Twas the Night at Carousel Dinner Theatre. Hayley enjoys dancing, singing, and being with her friends!
Spencer Lightfoot (Leaf Coneybear) is a senior IB student appearing in his third FHS production. He sings with the Mens Chorus and Symphonic Choir. Spencer is a member of the diving team as well as the golf team.
Imokhai Okolo (lights) is an 11th grade IB student working on his fourth FHS production. He enjoys working on lights and loves working on all types of shows. Imokhai also participates with Mock Trial and Student Council. He aspires to be a lawyer.
Zoe Sapienza (stage manager) is a sophomore VPA Theatre student working on her third FHS production. She appeared onstage in Dear Gabby and the annual One-Act Play Festival as well as serving as the assistant stage manager fo the Spring Dance Concert. Zoe has appeared in Weathervane Playhouse productions of Pride and Prejudice and A Midsummer Night’s Dream.
Trishah (Scalera) Snowden (Rona Lisa Pereeti) is a Firestone High School alum, received her Bachelor’s degree in Music Ed. from Ashland University. She now teaches general music, choir, and musical theatre for Nordonia Hills City Schools. Trishah has performed for several professional and community theatres in the area including Magical Theatre Company, the former Carousel Dinner Theatre, South Bend Civic Theatre, Weathervane Playhouse, CAMEO, and Canton Players Guild. Favorite roles include Millie Dillmount in Thoroughly Modern Millie and Clair in Proof. Trishah thanks her family, especially her husband, Greg (also a FHS alum), for their support today and every day.
Scot M. Sexton (drums) is an alumnus of Firestone High School. He is happy to be a part of this production of The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee. Scot has recently relocated back to Ohio after living in NYC, and Seattle, WA. He would like to thank his wife Rayann for all her love and support.
Mark A. Zimmerman (Director) is a director and award-winning lighting designer with over 70 plays and musicals to his credit. His directing credits include productions at the Stow Players (Greetings!), the Western Reserve Playhouse (The Andrews Brothers, Rumors, Once Upon a Mattress), Weathervane Playhouse (The Crucible, The Philadelphia Story, Oliver!, among others), Coach House Theatre (Collected Stories), Cleveland Public Theatre (Eve Ensler’s Lemonade), the University of Akron (Into the Woods, Talk Radio), among others. He is married to Elynmarie Kazle and is helping her raise their 15-year-old, Banno Rothman.
Barbara Bellamy (music director) has served as Director of Vocal Music and Theater at Akron’s Kenmore High School since 1994. Prior to having a "real job," she performed as a solo singer/pianist in Melbourne, Australia, and around NE Ohio. She was an Artist in Residence with the Ohio Arts Council. She has acted and directed for community theaters in Hudson, Aurora, and Streetsboro. She is the proud mother of three grown children. She served her time as a "Spelling Bee Mom" in 1990 when her oldest son Al was ONE WORD AWAY from going to Washington DC. Thanks to Mark for inviting me to join this amazing team!
Rachel Galambos (choreographer) is a recent Ashland University theatre education graduate. She completed her student teaching at FHS and is the proud owner of a Drama /Theatre Teaching License. Rachel provided the choreography for our recent production of Sweeney Todd. Rachel has been a performer and choreographer for many theatres in the area. She currently teaches several acting classes at Weathervane Community Playhouse.
Alan J. Higbee (rehearsal accompanist / piano) has accompanied Seussical the Musical for West Geauga Middle School, You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown for Beaumont High School, Into the Woods for Independence High School and A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum for the Geauga Lyric Theater Guild. He has also accompanied choral, vocal and instrumental recitals for many years in the Cleveland area, as well as playing keyboard for stage productions at Shore Cultural Center, Near West Theater, and several shows at Beachwood Community Theater. This past May he was the music director for 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee at Gilmour Academy. Mr. Higbee has been a professional organist for twenty-five years and currently plays at Ascension Lutheran Church in North Olmsted.
Elynmarie Kazle (stage management mentor) was elected an Honorary Firestone Thespian in 2007. She has trained and mentored our stage managers for many years and often has conducted stage management workshops for various Thespian conferences and around the country. Kazle is a Fellow of the United States Institute of Technology (USITT) and has worked as a stage manager and/or producer at theatres in New York, Cleveland, Minneapolis, and Los Angeles, with artists such as Mikhail Baryshinikov, Viggo Mortenson, Christopher Walken, and Tommy Tune, among others. She has directed three productions of Dear Gabby: the Confessions of an Under-Achiever for Firestone Theatre.
Jon Bozeka (William Barfee) is a junior VPA Vocal Music student appearing in his sixth FHS production. He also sings with the Madrigals, Vocal Jazz, Symphonic Chior, and Mens Chorus. Jon has taken both voice and piano lessons from Sandra Schlub. He has enjoyed participating in the Akron Summer Theatre Project.
Shamara Costa (Olive Ostrovsky) is a senior VPA Theatre student appearing in her fourth FHS production. She was most recently seen as Mrs. Lovett in our production of Sweeney Todd. Shamara loves the stage and intends to attend college and pursue a career in musical theatre. She is pleased to have devoted a portion of her summer to this production.
Morgan Csejtey (assistant stage manager) is an eighth grade drama student at Miller South School for the Arts. She has been involved with theatre since she was seven and has loved every moment. Morgan has enjoyed working on Spelling Bee very much and looks forward to many more experiences with the Akron Summer Theatre Project.
Zoe Dong (Marcy Park) is a sophomore VPA Visual Art student appearing in her first FHS production. She studies at the Dance Institute on the campus of the Univeristy of Akron. Zoe has had lots of fun here with the awesome cast and crew of Putnam.
Marc Dusini (Douglas Panch) has appeared in many community theatre productions in Summit, Medina, and Cuyahoga counties. This is his first time with Firestone Theatre and it has been a wonderful experience. He currently serves on the board of The Western Reserve Playhouse in Bath Township.
Caeli Droge (Marcy Park) is a senior VPA Theatre student appearing in her third Firestone Theatre production. She previously appeared in Stage Door and The Producers. Caeli sings in the Symphonic Choir and plays violin. She is an active member of the Venturing Crew.
Matt Gilbert is a senior at Berea High School. He has appeared in productions of You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown, The Music Man, Little Shop of Horrors, and Alice in Wonderland. Matt thanks the Firestone Theatre community for welcoming him with open arms.
Hayley Hineline (Logainne Schwartzandgruenierre) is a senior VPA Theatre student and is the secretary of the Thespian Troupe. This is her 6th Firestone production. Hayley has performed in over a dozen shows in NE Ohio including Annie, The Wizard of Oz, and Twas the Night at Carousel Dinner Theatre. Hayley enjoys dancing, singing, and being with her friends!
Spencer Lightfoot (Leaf Coneybear) is a senior IB student appearing in his third FHS production. He sings with the Mens Chorus and Symphonic Choir. Spencer is a member of the diving team as well as the golf team.
Imokhai Okolo (lights) is an 11th grade IB student working on his fourth FHS production. He enjoys working on lights and loves working on all types of shows. Imokhai also participates with Mock Trial and Student Council. He aspires to be a lawyer.
Zoe Sapienza (stage manager) is a sophomore VPA Theatre student working on her third FHS production. She appeared onstage in Dear Gabby and the annual One-Act Play Festival as well as serving as the assistant stage manager fo the Spring Dance Concert. Zoe has appeared in Weathervane Playhouse productions of Pride and Prejudice and A Midsummer Night’s Dream.
Trishah (Scalera) Snowden (Rona Lisa Pereeti) is a Firestone High School alum, received her Bachelor’s degree in Music Ed. from Ashland University. She now teaches general music, choir, and musical theatre for Nordonia Hills City Schools. Trishah has performed for several professional and community theatres in the area including Magical Theatre Company, the former Carousel Dinner Theatre, South Bend Civic Theatre, Weathervane Playhouse, CAMEO, and Canton Players Guild. Favorite roles include Millie Dillmount in Thoroughly Modern Millie and Clair in Proof. Trishah thanks her family, especially her husband, Greg (also a FHS alum), for their support today and every day.
Scot M. Sexton (drums) is an alumnus of Firestone High School. He is happy to be a part of this production of The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee. Scot has recently relocated back to Ohio after living in NYC, and Seattle, WA. He would like to thank his wife Rayann for all her love and support.
Mark A. Zimmerman (Director) is a director and award-winning lighting designer with over 70 plays and musicals to his credit. His directing credits include productions at the Stow Players (Greetings!), the Western Reserve Playhouse (The Andrews Brothers, Rumors, Once Upon a Mattress), Weathervane Playhouse (The Crucible, The Philadelphia Story, Oliver!, among others), Coach House Theatre (Collected Stories), Cleveland Public Theatre (Eve Ensler’s Lemonade), the University of Akron (Into the Woods, Talk Radio), among others. He is married to Elynmarie Kazle and is helping her raise their 15-year-old, Banno Rothman.
Barbara Bellamy (music director) has served as Director of Vocal Music and Theater at Akron’s Kenmore High School since 1994. Prior to having a "real job," she performed as a solo singer/pianist in Melbourne, Australia, and around NE Ohio. She was an Artist in Residence with the Ohio Arts Council. She has acted and directed for community theaters in Hudson, Aurora, and Streetsboro. She is the proud mother of three grown children. She served her time as a "Spelling Bee Mom" in 1990 when her oldest son Al was ONE WORD AWAY from going to Washington DC. Thanks to Mark for inviting me to join this amazing team!
Rachel Galambos (choreographer) is a recent Ashland University theatre education graduate. She completed her student teaching at FHS and is the proud owner of a Drama /Theatre Teaching License. Rachel provided the choreography for our recent production of Sweeney Todd. Rachel has been a performer and choreographer for many theatres in the area. She currently teaches several acting classes at Weathervane Community Playhouse.
Alan J. Higbee (rehearsal accompanist / piano) has accompanied Seussical the Musical for West Geauga Middle School, You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown for Beaumont High School, Into the Woods for Independence High School and A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum for the Geauga Lyric Theater Guild. He has also accompanied choral, vocal and instrumental recitals for many years in the Cleveland area, as well as playing keyboard for stage productions at Shore Cultural Center, Near West Theater, and several shows at Beachwood Community Theater. This past May he was the music director for 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee at Gilmour Academy. Mr. Higbee has been a professional organist for twenty-five years and currently plays at Ascension Lutheran Church in North Olmsted.
Elynmarie Kazle (stage management mentor) was elected an Honorary Firestone Thespian in 2007. She has trained and mentored our stage managers for many years and often has conducted stage management workshops for various Thespian conferences and around the country. Kazle is a Fellow of the United States Institute of Technology (USITT) and has worked as a stage manager and/or producer at theatres in New York, Cleveland, Minneapolis, and Los Angeles, with artists such as Mikhail Baryshinikov, Viggo Mortenson, Christopher Walken, and Tommy Tune, among others. She has directed three productions of Dear Gabby: the Confessions of an Under-Achiever for Firestone Theatre.
Thursday, July 1, 2010
New Show, New Space
Last night we held our first rehearsal in our special performance space, known to those familiar with Firestone High School as the LIA, or large instruction area.
We have turned this space into our own “black box” theatre that will sit around 100 patrons. As we worked on the show in this space, it became apparent to all how close our show will be to its audience. This is an exciting way to present theatre. We think we will enjoy watching THE 25th ANNUAL PUTNAM COUNTY SPELLING BEE in this fashion.
We have set up a small thrust stage around which an audience can sit on three sides. Each section has four rows. The furthest any audience member will sit from the stage is about 20 feet. In addition to proximity, the audience will enjoy more interaction with the performance than to what they might be accustomed in our 800-seat auditorium. The cast makes many entrances through the aisles and even uses some of the off-stage floor space as a dance area.
Three members of the audience will also find themselves on stage as part of the performance. It is a traditional part of the show that three volunteers from the audience become contestants in the spelling bee. Each volunteer will take a time or two at the microphone to spell words both common and obscure. This practice is popular with both audience and performers. It has been a standard part of the show since it first started to develop in workshop.
It is a little dangerous for the performers because you never know for sure what the audience volunteer will do once they get onstage. There are a few safeguards in place to make sure no volunteer hijacks the show. However, in the end, it is simply a matter of trust.
I think right now the actors are both scared and excited about the possibility of performing with three audience members who are simply being themselves. They are excited, too, because they think they have a really fun show to share with an audience. I am excited about that, too.
What we really need right now is you. Do you know what night you are seeing THE 25th ANNUAL PUTNAM COUNTY SPELLING BEE?
maz
We have turned this space into our own “black box” theatre that will sit around 100 patrons. As we worked on the show in this space, it became apparent to all how close our show will be to its audience. This is an exciting way to present theatre. We think we will enjoy watching THE 25th ANNUAL PUTNAM COUNTY SPELLING BEE in this fashion.
We have set up a small thrust stage around which an audience can sit on three sides. Each section has four rows. The furthest any audience member will sit from the stage is about 20 feet. In addition to proximity, the audience will enjoy more interaction with the performance than to what they might be accustomed in our 800-seat auditorium. The cast makes many entrances through the aisles and even uses some of the off-stage floor space as a dance area.
Three members of the audience will also find themselves on stage as part of the performance. It is a traditional part of the show that three volunteers from the audience become contestants in the spelling bee. Each volunteer will take a time or two at the microphone to spell words both common and obscure. This practice is popular with both audience and performers. It has been a standard part of the show since it first started to develop in workshop.
It is a little dangerous for the performers because you never know for sure what the audience volunteer will do once they get onstage. There are a few safeguards in place to make sure no volunteer hijacks the show. However, in the end, it is simply a matter of trust.
I think right now the actors are both scared and excited about the possibility of performing with three audience members who are simply being themselves. They are excited, too, because they think they have a really fun show to share with an audience. I am excited about that, too.
What we really need right now is you. Do you know what night you are seeing THE 25th ANNUAL PUTNAM COUNTY SPELLING BEE?
maz
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
Our SPELLING BEE could include you!
An unusual aspect of THE 25th ANNUAL PUTNAM COUNTY SPELLING BEE is that three members of the audience are invited onstage to compete in the bee along with the six adolescent characters.
The regular cast of this the Akron Summer Theatre Project features an exciting mix of experience and enthusiasm. The cast is led by FHS seniors Shamara Costa (Olive Ostrovsky),Caeli Droge (Marcy Park), Hayley Hineline (Logainne SchwartzandGrubenierre), and Spencer Lightfoot (Leaf Coneybear) as well as Berea High School senior Matthew Gilbert (Chip Tolentino). They are supported by FHS junior Jon Bozeka (William Barfee) and FHS sophomore Zoe Dong (Marcy Park/understudy).
Also appearing in the cast are FHS graduates Trishah Snowden (Rona Lisa Perretti) and Stephen Carder (Mitch Mahoney). The production’s stage manager is FHS sophomore Zoe Sapienza. She is assisted by Miller South eighth-grader Morgan Csejtey.
To appear onstage with our cast of irregulars, you must volunteer in the lobby prior to each performance. Auddience volunteers are asked to present themselves (or others) at least 20 minutes prior to curtain.
THE 25th ANNUAL PUTNAM COUNTY SPELLING BEE will be presented at 7:30 on Thursday, July 8, Friday, July 9, and Saturday, July 10, 2010. A single matinee performance will be held at 4:30 p.m. on Saturday, July 10, 2010. This production is an entertainment bargain compared to other theatres in the area. All seats are general admission and cost just $10.00.
The regular cast of this the Akron Summer Theatre Project features an exciting mix of experience and enthusiasm. The cast is led by FHS seniors Shamara Costa (Olive Ostrovsky),Caeli Droge (Marcy Park), Hayley Hineline (Logainne SchwartzandGrubenierre), and Spencer Lightfoot (Leaf Coneybear) as well as Berea High School senior Matthew Gilbert (Chip Tolentino). They are supported by FHS junior Jon Bozeka (William Barfee) and FHS sophomore Zoe Dong (Marcy Park/understudy).
Also appearing in the cast are FHS graduates Trishah Snowden (Rona Lisa Perretti) and Stephen Carder (Mitch Mahoney). The production’s stage manager is FHS sophomore Zoe Sapienza. She is assisted by Miller South eighth-grader Morgan Csejtey.
To appear onstage with our cast of irregulars, you must volunteer in the lobby prior to each performance. Auddience volunteers are asked to present themselves (or others) at least 20 minutes prior to curtain.
THE 25th ANNUAL PUTNAM COUNTY SPELLING BEE will be presented at 7:30 on Thursday, July 8, Friday, July 9, and Saturday, July 10, 2010. A single matinee performance will be held at 4:30 p.m. on Saturday, July 10, 2010. This production is an entertainment bargain compared to other theatres in the area. All seats are general admission and cost just $10.00.
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
Please spell Hysterical
Joyful competition and youthful heartbreak take center stage in a new production of THE 25th ANNUAL PUTNAM COUNTY SPELLING BEE. This energetic and hysterical music appears onstage for five upcoming performances at Firestone High School.
The special production is an extension of the school’s theatre education program and is presented under the name of the Akron Summer Theatre Project.
THE 25th ANNUAL PUTNAM COUNTY SPELLING BEE will be presented at 7:30 on Thursday, July 8, Friday, July 9, and Saturday, July 10, 2010. A single matinee performance will be held at 4:30 p.m. on Saturday, July 10, 2010.
This production is an entertainment bargain compared to other theatres in the area. All seats are general admission and cost just $10.00. Seating is limited. A special preview performance will be presented at 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, July 7. Admission for the preview performance is a mere $5.00.
Tickets for all performances are available by mail and at the door on the night of performance. Ticket order forms can be downloaded at www.FirestoneTheatre.com.
The special production is an extension of the school’s theatre education program and is presented under the name of the Akron Summer Theatre Project.
THE 25th ANNUAL PUTNAM COUNTY SPELLING BEE will be presented at 7:30 on Thursday, July 8, Friday, July 9, and Saturday, July 10, 2010. A single matinee performance will be held at 4:30 p.m. on Saturday, July 10, 2010.
This production is an entertainment bargain compared to other theatres in the area. All seats are general admission and cost just $10.00. Seating is limited. A special preview performance will be presented at 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, July 7. Admission for the preview performance is a mere $5.00.
Tickets for all performances are available by mail and at the door on the night of performance. Ticket order forms can be downloaded at www.FirestoneTheatre.com.
Wednesday, April 7, 2010
Thoughts on Student Participation
Learning in the theatre is very much experiential in nature. The educational value a student derives from a theatre program is clearly dependent on the level of their involvement. A student must be present and active in the theatrical process to gain the greatest value from it.
Firestone Theatre’s educational philosophy recommends that the student be actively involved in the ongoing production of live theatre in the school. The student is expected to actively participate either onstage or off in two or more theatre productions each year. We rely on our students to populate the casts and crews of our own productions. The student’s artistic and intellectual growth is directly proportional to the level of his or her involvement in our activities. All theatre students are strongly encouraged to pursue the highest level of participation possible.
As a collaborative art form, theatre is dependent on a large contingent of students with a wide variety of skills and experiences. We recognize that the best theatre artist is one that possesses a life outside of the theatre and encourage students to also follow their non-theatrical passions. We likewise recognize the contributions of others and welcome students from outside the arts program and from other arts areas to participate in our activities. The student may choose to pursue excellent theatre experiences outside of school. This activity, while encouraged, should not impinge the student’s ability to participate in Firestone Theatre activities. Students must find ways to balance their commitment to Firestone Theatre with their other theatrical pursuits.
Firestone Theatre’s educational philosophy encourages students to pursue a variety of school activities whether they are artistic, academic, athletic or otherwise. We recognize the educational benefits of additional school activities and respect the discipline and work ethic each develops in the student. We do not encourage theatre activity at the exclusion of all other activities and expect the same from others. Firestone Theatre firmly believes that no student activity should discourage a student from participation in any or all other school activities.
Firestone Theatre recognizes that the student artist is a student first and therefore must maintain a good academic standing. District and school rules related to extra-curricular eligibility are strictly enforced.
maz
Firestone Theatre’s educational philosophy recommends that the student be actively involved in the ongoing production of live theatre in the school. The student is expected to actively participate either onstage or off in two or more theatre productions each year. We rely on our students to populate the casts and crews of our own productions. The student’s artistic and intellectual growth is directly proportional to the level of his or her involvement in our activities. All theatre students are strongly encouraged to pursue the highest level of participation possible.
As a collaborative art form, theatre is dependent on a large contingent of students with a wide variety of skills and experiences. We recognize that the best theatre artist is one that possesses a life outside of the theatre and encourage students to also follow their non-theatrical passions. We likewise recognize the contributions of others and welcome students from outside the arts program and from other arts areas to participate in our activities. The student may choose to pursue excellent theatre experiences outside of school. This activity, while encouraged, should not impinge the student’s ability to participate in Firestone Theatre activities. Students must find ways to balance their commitment to Firestone Theatre with their other theatrical pursuits.
Firestone Theatre’s educational philosophy encourages students to pursue a variety of school activities whether they are artistic, academic, athletic or otherwise. We recognize the educational benefits of additional school activities and respect the discipline and work ethic each develops in the student. We do not encourage theatre activity at the exclusion of all other activities and expect the same from others. Firestone Theatre firmly believes that no student activity should discourage a student from participation in any or all other school activities.
Firestone Theatre recognizes that the student artist is a student first and therefore must maintain a good academic standing. District and school rules related to extra-curricular eligibility are strictly enforced.
maz
Monday, April 5, 2010
We Sound Better Thanks to the Kindness of Others
We recently replaced our wireless microphones thanks to several especially kind donations and we already sound better. Due to a recent decision by FCC we had to make plans for ceasing use of the microphones we already owned. Buying new seemed like the best option but we were going to need help.
We are now proud owners of ten (10) new Audio-Technica wireless microphones thanks mostly to these generous organizations: Friends of Firestone (the FHS Alumni Association), FHS Student Council, FHS Parent-Teacher-Student Association (PTSA), and Firestone Choral Dance Theatre Association (FCDTA). Without these kind folks we would likely still be struggling to come up with the money to replace our outdated and soon to be un-usable sound equipment.
We purchased our original wireless microphones about 10 years ago and have been nursing them along for at least a couple of years. Before that we consistently rented or borrowed microphones for our productions. It was always a pain and we decided at that time that it would be better to purchase our own . . . besides, Audio-Technica (located in nearby Stow) told us that we couldn't borrow microphones from them any longer because they were discontinuing their loaning program. So we bought ten units at a fair price and have used them consistently in the time since. Those first mics served us well and it was always an advantage to have microphones of our own to use whenever we needed them.
More recently the FCC auctioned off the frequencies on which our microphones operated and we were made aware that we would have to dicontinue using our system by June 1, 2010. We were not alone as all schools, churches, and theatres that use mics for non-commercial purposes in the 700 mhz band would also be forced to stop or potentially face serious fines or at least significant interference from the commercial use of the frequencies.
I have heard that some organizations have decided to ride out the storm . . . waiting to see if some last-minute reprieve will be offered to schools or other non-profit organizations. We instead took action; we asked several organizations to match our financial efforts to replace our wireless system so that we would be compliant with the new FCC regulation. Not one request was denied and we were able to raise the necessary funds in fairly straight order.
Thanks to the generosity and support of the above organizations we have completely replaced our old and tattered wireless microphones and were even able to integrate some of the new equipment into our recent production of SWEENEY TODD. I am happy to say that the new equipment is a large step forward in quality. The new microphones sound great and provide a more consistent and warmer signal from our singers. These new microphones should also be cheaper to operate because they use AA batteries instead of the 9-volt batteries the old system required.
We now turn our attention to our failing sound board.
maz
We are now proud owners of ten (10) new Audio-Technica wireless microphones thanks mostly to these generous organizations: Friends of Firestone (the FHS Alumni Association), FHS Student Council, FHS Parent-Teacher-Student Association (PTSA), and Firestone Choral Dance Theatre Association (FCDTA). Without these kind folks we would likely still be struggling to come up with the money to replace our outdated and soon to be un-usable sound equipment.
We purchased our original wireless microphones about 10 years ago and have been nursing them along for at least a couple of years. Before that we consistently rented or borrowed microphones for our productions. It was always a pain and we decided at that time that it would be better to purchase our own . . . besides, Audio-Technica (located in nearby Stow) told us that we couldn't borrow microphones from them any longer because they were discontinuing their loaning program. So we bought ten units at a fair price and have used them consistently in the time since. Those first mics served us well and it was always an advantage to have microphones of our own to use whenever we needed them.
More recently the FCC auctioned off the frequencies on which our microphones operated and we were made aware that we would have to dicontinue using our system by June 1, 2010. We were not alone as all schools, churches, and theatres that use mics for non-commercial purposes in the 700 mhz band would also be forced to stop or potentially face serious fines or at least significant interference from the commercial use of the frequencies.
I have heard that some organizations have decided to ride out the storm . . . waiting to see if some last-minute reprieve will be offered to schools or other non-profit organizations. We instead took action; we asked several organizations to match our financial efforts to replace our wireless system so that we would be compliant with the new FCC regulation. Not one request was denied and we were able to raise the necessary funds in fairly straight order.
Thanks to the generosity and support of the above organizations we have completely replaced our old and tattered wireless microphones and were even able to integrate some of the new equipment into our recent production of SWEENEY TODD. I am happy to say that the new equipment is a large step forward in quality. The new microphones sound great and provide a more consistent and warmer signal from our singers. These new microphones should also be cheaper to operate because they use AA batteries instead of the 9-volt batteries the old system required.
We now turn our attention to our failing sound board.
maz
Saturday, April 3, 2010
Theatre Matters
FROM LAWEEKLY.com
By Steven Leigh Morris
Thursday, Mar 25 2010
This past January, a press release arrived at the Weekly offices that caught my interest because it publicized a play written by my former UCLA professor Theodore Apstein. Before coming to UCLA, Mr. Apstein taught playwriting at Columbia University. For 27 years after that, until he died in 1998, he taught the craft at the Westwood campus. Despite an accomplished writing career in television and film, he never taught screenwriting.
I remember how Apstein spoke with affection for the theater, and of the various conundrums involved in having his plays put on in New York. His last play, which remains unproduced, was an autobiographical work named Leaving Kiev. This was the play discussed in the aforementioned press release:
"Theodore Apstein's career extends all the way back to the early days of television, writing for the dramatic series The General Electric Theater, The Alcoa Hour, Mystery Theater, Studio One and Hallmark Hall of Fame. He wrote for such television dramas as The Untouchables, Ben Casey, The F.B.I., The Virginian, Marcus Welby, M.D., The Waltons, Kung Fu and Another World, among others."
Next comes the sentence that stands out for me: "He also wrote some on- and off-Broadway plays."
That's it. Theater. Broadway theater! He also wrote some ... plays. Might those plays have a title?
If only this were some West Coast aberration, but in fact it's indicative of a far more pervasive, waning regard for theater in our culture.
For the record, Mr. Apstein wrote a play called The Innkeepers, which was produced on Broadway in 1956, directed by Jose Quintero, the L.A. City College– and USC-educated stage director from Panama, who went on to become one of the most celebrated directors of Broadway and off-Broadway plays in the American theater. Another of Apstein's plays, Come Share My House, was produced off-Broadway in 1960. But the larger point is the divide between the commonly held low regard for theater and its actual relevance — far greater than most are willing to acknowledge. From that chasm emerge the questions of why do theater at all, in these times, and what makes a good producer. After all, producers need a good reason, an incentive to keep producing plays. Because if they stop, we'll all be less than zero for it, culturally speaking. None of this can be addressed until we recognize the point of live theater, in this tiny corner of history, and in an even tinier backwater of recognized theatrical activity called Los Angeles.
The National Endowment for the Arts recently reported that arts attendance in the United States has hit new lows, with 34 percent attending an arts event once a week, down from 39 percent in 2002. (However, the report also noted a spike in audiences procuring their arts fix through the Internet.)
Add to this the emblematic proposal by the Los Angeles Unified School District to eliminate all elementary school arts teachers by the end of 2012, when statistics show a clear pattern of arts attendance established in those formative years.
This apathy toward the arts, and toward artists, is nothing new in America, but with text-messaging, tweeting, cell-photo–taking and social-networking technologies all tied into the escalating global-corporate control of almost all our affairs — now including unlimited corporate spending in political campaigns under the guise of "free speech," thanks to our Supreme Court — we appear to be surfing on a slow-moving wave toward a kind of globally engineered beachhead. On this beachhead, the sort of independence of thought and language that gets expressed through the arts in general, and in great theater in particular, gets dashed on the rocks.
On this beachhead, there exists a system of economics and communications that, more than ever before, financially serves the few at the expense of the many, while the people who govern this beachhead complain about the "elitism" of the arts. On this beachhead, history is either forgotten, or rewritten, or reduced to a few slogans. Here, the kinds of belligerence and barbarism that have always been part of the fabric of American life are given freer and freer rein, while qualities of compassion and critical thought, which have also always been part of the fabric of American life, slowly wash out to sea. We need look no further than the health care debate to see the kinds of obstinacy and greed that now pass for debate. And so it was in ancient Greece, an empire similarly ensconced in domestic barbarism and military adventurism. Yet it was the theater that reformulated the debates of that era with humanity and intelligence, and put those qualities back into the air that we still breathe more than 2,000 years later.
Do the people who belittle the arts do so because they're too expensive, irrelevant, or because the arts have the capacity to say unpredictable and unpleasant things? This beachhead vaguely resembles the former Soviet Union. They simply took artists they didn't like and either shot them or exiled them to Siberia. We're not killing or dumping artists. We're trying to dump the arts themselves.
Read the entire piece here.
By Steven Leigh Morris
Thursday, Mar 25 2010
This past January, a press release arrived at the Weekly offices that caught my interest because it publicized a play written by my former UCLA professor Theodore Apstein. Before coming to UCLA, Mr. Apstein taught playwriting at Columbia University. For 27 years after that, until he died in 1998, he taught the craft at the Westwood campus. Despite an accomplished writing career in television and film, he never taught screenwriting.
I remember how Apstein spoke with affection for the theater, and of the various conundrums involved in having his plays put on in New York. His last play, which remains unproduced, was an autobiographical work named Leaving Kiev. This was the play discussed in the aforementioned press release:
"Theodore Apstein's career extends all the way back to the early days of television, writing for the dramatic series The General Electric Theater, The Alcoa Hour, Mystery Theater, Studio One and Hallmark Hall of Fame. He wrote for such television dramas as The Untouchables, Ben Casey, The F.B.I., The Virginian, Marcus Welby, M.D., The Waltons, Kung Fu and Another World, among others."
Next comes the sentence that stands out for me: "He also wrote some on- and off-Broadway plays."
That's it. Theater. Broadway theater! He also wrote some ... plays. Might those plays have a title?
If only this were some West Coast aberration, but in fact it's indicative of a far more pervasive, waning regard for theater in our culture.
For the record, Mr. Apstein wrote a play called The Innkeepers, which was produced on Broadway in 1956, directed by Jose Quintero, the L.A. City College– and USC-educated stage director from Panama, who went on to become one of the most celebrated directors of Broadway and off-Broadway plays in the American theater. Another of Apstein's plays, Come Share My House, was produced off-Broadway in 1960. But the larger point is the divide between the commonly held low regard for theater and its actual relevance — far greater than most are willing to acknowledge. From that chasm emerge the questions of why do theater at all, in these times, and what makes a good producer. After all, producers need a good reason, an incentive to keep producing plays. Because if they stop, we'll all be less than zero for it, culturally speaking. None of this can be addressed until we recognize the point of live theater, in this tiny corner of history, and in an even tinier backwater of recognized theatrical activity called Los Angeles.
The National Endowment for the Arts recently reported that arts attendance in the United States has hit new lows, with 34 percent attending an arts event once a week, down from 39 percent in 2002. (However, the report also noted a spike in audiences procuring their arts fix through the Internet.)
Add to this the emblematic proposal by the Los Angeles Unified School District to eliminate all elementary school arts teachers by the end of 2012, when statistics show a clear pattern of arts attendance established in those formative years.
This apathy toward the arts, and toward artists, is nothing new in America, but with text-messaging, tweeting, cell-photo–taking and social-networking technologies all tied into the escalating global-corporate control of almost all our affairs — now including unlimited corporate spending in political campaigns under the guise of "free speech," thanks to our Supreme Court — we appear to be surfing on a slow-moving wave toward a kind of globally engineered beachhead. On this beachhead, the sort of independence of thought and language that gets expressed through the arts in general, and in great theater in particular, gets dashed on the rocks.
On this beachhead, there exists a system of economics and communications that, more than ever before, financially serves the few at the expense of the many, while the people who govern this beachhead complain about the "elitism" of the arts. On this beachhead, history is either forgotten, or rewritten, or reduced to a few slogans. Here, the kinds of belligerence and barbarism that have always been part of the fabric of American life are given freer and freer rein, while qualities of compassion and critical thought, which have also always been part of the fabric of American life, slowly wash out to sea. We need look no further than the health care debate to see the kinds of obstinacy and greed that now pass for debate. And so it was in ancient Greece, an empire similarly ensconced in domestic barbarism and military adventurism. Yet it was the theater that reformulated the debates of that era with humanity and intelligence, and put those qualities back into the air that we still breathe more than 2,000 years later.
Do the people who belittle the arts do so because they're too expensive, irrelevant, or because the arts have the capacity to say unpredictable and unpleasant things? This beachhead vaguely resembles the former Soviet Union. They simply took artists they didn't like and either shot them or exiled them to Siberia. We're not killing or dumping artists. We're trying to dump the arts themselves.
Read the entire piece here.
Friday, April 2, 2010
New Name for Akron Arts Organization
The name changes but the mission stays the same. The organization once known as Friends of Firestone High School VPA is now officially known as Advocates for the Akron Visual and Performing Arts.
The Advocates for the Akron Visual and Performing Arts have raised money for a variety of purposes but has given special emphasis to the awarding of scholarships to selected visual and performing arts students who choose to continue their arts education in college. Eight students have been awarded $4000.00 in the last two years. The latest round of scholarships will be awarded at a recognition assembly to be held at the school on Monday, May 3, 2010.
The Advocates for the Akron Visual and Performing Arts is a 501(c)3, non-for-profit organization organized in 2007. It is dedicated to supporting and promoting the highest standards for arts education and providing the greater Akron community with opportunities to experience and enjoy the Akron Public School’s visual and performing arts programs housed at Firestone High School.
Additional money has also been raised to help pay for private lessons, master classes in all arts areas as well as other guest artists who have collaborated with students in all disciplines.
The name change was undertaken mostly to eliminate confusion with an already existing organization called Friends of Firestone, an FHS alumni association.
Support this organization by becoming a fan on Facebook.
The Advocates for the Akron Visual and Performing Arts have raised money for a variety of purposes but has given special emphasis to the awarding of scholarships to selected visual and performing arts students who choose to continue their arts education in college. Eight students have been awarded $4000.00 in the last two years. The latest round of scholarships will be awarded at a recognition assembly to be held at the school on Monday, May 3, 2010.
The Advocates for the Akron Visual and Performing Arts is a 501(c)3, non-for-profit organization organized in 2007. It is dedicated to supporting and promoting the highest standards for arts education and providing the greater Akron community with opportunities to experience and enjoy the Akron Public School’s visual and performing arts programs housed at Firestone High School.
Additional money has also been raised to help pay for private lessons, master classes in all arts areas as well as other guest artists who have collaborated with students in all disciplines.
The name change was undertaken mostly to eliminate confusion with an already existing organization called Friends of Firestone, an FHS alumni association.
Support this organization by becoming a fan on Facebook.
Thursday, April 1, 2010
Fox Announces Open Casting Calls for TV show GLEE
from Fox.com:
Online Submissions Will Be Accepted Exclusively on MySpace
Glee's executive producers are holding a nationwide online casting search for fresh, young, talented performers to fill new roles that will be featured during the show's second season.
Beginning March 30-April 26, amateur and professional performers between the ages of 16 and 26 will have the opportunity to submit an audition video exclusively on MySpace at myspace.com/gleeauditions
Visit myspace.com/gleeauditions for more information, song list and additional rules.
And be sure to sign up for the GLEE newsletter to stay in-the-know on your favorite show.
Need help? Contact MySpace directly.
Online Submissions Will Be Accepted Exclusively on MySpace
Glee's executive producers are holding a nationwide online casting search for fresh, young, talented performers to fill new roles that will be featured during the show's second season.
Beginning March 30-April 26, amateur and professional performers between the ages of 16 and 26 will have the opportunity to submit an audition video exclusively on MySpace at myspace.com/gleeauditions
Visit myspace.com/gleeauditions for more information, song list and additional rules.
And be sure to sign up for the GLEE newsletter to stay in-the-know on your favorite show.
Need help? Contact MySpace directly.
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
FHS Graduate Appears in Object Collection production at The Chocolate Factory
FHS alumni Eric Magnus is currently appearing in the Object Collection production of THE GEOMETRY at The Chocolate Factory. Here is a summary of the avant-garde production appearing off-off-Broadway through April 3, 2010, courtesy of THE L MAGAZINE online.
"The Geometry
Thu-Sat at 8pm; $15
212-352-3101
Theater: Off-Off Broadway
In what sounds like a perfect high-low cultural mashup, this multimedia performance, musical and interactive installation by Kara Feely, Travis Just and composer Jennifer Walshe experiments with forms from chamber (and soap) operas grafted onto narrative techniques taken from vintage video games–Donkey Kong and Pacman among others. The suspended, multi-stage set features four distinct performance spaces that periodically transform into video booths where live and recorded video reveal the actors and live electronic musicians preparing for the show.
The Chocolate Factory
5-49 49th Ave., between 5th St and Vernon Blvd (map)
Long Island City
718-482-7069 "
Here is a link. a
"The Geometry
Thu-Sat at 8pm; $15
212-352-3101
Theater: Off-Off Broadway
In what sounds like a perfect high-low cultural mashup, this multimedia performance, musical and interactive installation by Kara Feely, Travis Just and composer Jennifer Walshe experiments with forms from chamber (and soap) operas grafted onto narrative techniques taken from vintage video games–Donkey Kong and Pacman among others. The suspended, multi-stage set features four distinct performance spaces that periodically transform into video booths where live and recorded video reveal the actors and live electronic musicians preparing for the show.
The Chocolate Factory
5-49 49th Ave., between 5th St and Vernon Blvd (map)
Long Island City
718-482-7069 "
Here is a link. a
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
Director's notes for SWEENEY TODD
FROM THE FIRESTONE THEATRE PLAYBILL:
On the surface, SWEENEY TODD might appear to be simply a gruesome, Gothic freak show. Anyone who has seen the recent motion picture probably thinks SWEENEY TODD is a bloody, horrible mess. Some people might go as far to say that SWEENEY TODD is inappropriate for high school production.
While certainly on the edge of good taste, SWEENEY TODD is a daring piece of musical theatre with which all serious theatre students should become familiar. The musical is cited by many as Stephen Sondheim’s greatest score and by others as perhaps one of the best ever written. For me, the show is alittle like an onion in that we peel away layer after layer and there is always more to discover.
I am pleased to say that we are not the first high school to present SWEENEY TODD but I am even more satisfied that the dozen or more recent productions have generated no discernable controversy. A recent internet search reveals more than 50 American high schools have presented the play in recent years. According to MTI’s website, about 25 schools are contracted to present the play in the next 2 months. This list includes one middle school and several Christian or Catholic schools.
At its heart, SWEENEY TODD is grounded in good old-fashioned melodrama – not too far removed from the guy in the black hat with the handlebar moustache and the ready train tracks. The good and bad characters are clearly defined . . . and the bad characters are very very bad. They are motivated by simple things – Todd: revenge; Lovett: money, Johanna is the simple, beautiful damsel sought as a partner by both good and evil. Anthony is the whistle-clean hero with a pure heart and only the best intentions.
I think there is a lot of humor in SWEENEY TODD and we have tried to emphasize it. There is, of course, a dark humor running though the entire piece. Many comic moments are ironical or sarcastic and may easily slip by if one is not paying close attention. The recent movie mostly wiped these moments away and seemed to concentrate on mood and action. In our production, we instead look to the comedy and the beauty of the score to guide us.
Todd gets his in the end so there is no reason to fret over lessons learned. He pays his price twice; he must reconcile the fact that he has unknowingly killed his own wife and just about when he is done with that he is cut down by a character representing his own lost innocence. It is not a pretty story but it is a good one with important lessons to be learned.
On the surface, SWEENEY TODD might appear to be simply a gruesome, Gothic freak show. Anyone who has seen the recent motion picture probably thinks SWEENEY TODD is a bloody, horrible mess. Some people might go as far to say that SWEENEY TODD is inappropriate for high school production.
While certainly on the edge of good taste, SWEENEY TODD is a daring piece of musical theatre with which all serious theatre students should become familiar. The musical is cited by many as Stephen Sondheim’s greatest score and by others as perhaps one of the best ever written. For me, the show is alittle like an onion in that we peel away layer after layer and there is always more to discover.
I am pleased to say that we are not the first high school to present SWEENEY TODD but I am even more satisfied that the dozen or more recent productions have generated no discernable controversy. A recent internet search reveals more than 50 American high schools have presented the play in recent years. According to MTI’s website, about 25 schools are contracted to present the play in the next 2 months. This list includes one middle school and several Christian or Catholic schools.
At its heart, SWEENEY TODD is grounded in good old-fashioned melodrama – not too far removed from the guy in the black hat with the handlebar moustache and the ready train tracks. The good and bad characters are clearly defined . . . and the bad characters are very very bad. They are motivated by simple things – Todd: revenge; Lovett: money, Johanna is the simple, beautiful damsel sought as a partner by both good and evil. Anthony is the whistle-clean hero with a pure heart and only the best intentions.
I think there is a lot of humor in SWEENEY TODD and we have tried to emphasize it. There is, of course, a dark humor running though the entire piece. Many comic moments are ironical or sarcastic and may easily slip by if one is not paying close attention. The recent movie mostly wiped these moments away and seemed to concentrate on mood and action. In our production, we instead look to the comedy and the beauty of the score to guide us.
Todd gets his in the end so there is no reason to fret over lessons learned. He pays his price twice; he must reconcile the fact that he has unknowingly killed his own wife and just about when he is done with that he is cut down by a character representing his own lost innocence. It is not a pretty story but it is a good one with important lessons to be learned.
Saturday, March 27, 2010
Friday, March 26, 2010
Who gets eaten and who gets to eat?
This question is answered tonight and tomorrow as Firestone Theatre presents Stephen Sondheim's classic musical thriller, SWEENEY TODD:THE DEMON STREET OF FLEET STREET.
Tickets remain for all three performances and can be purchased at the door or in the school commons from 11:00 a.m. to 1:oo p.m. today (Friday). The school is located at333 Rampart Avenue in Akron (44313).
These performances remain:
Friday, March 26, 2010, 7:30 p.m.
Saturday, March 27, 2010, 2:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.
Audience comments so far include . . . . "Awesome!!!!" . . . .
"Great show" . . . . "bloody good" . . . . "Yet another spectacular production" . . . .
You get to eat, too, at a special spaghetti dinner held at the school between the matinee and evening performances on Saturday. Patrons of either performance as well as people not attending the show are encouraged to partake of this delicious dinner option.
SPECIAL SPAGHETTI DINNER
Saturday, March 27, 2010,
5:00 - 7:00 p.m.
This full meal includes pasta with meat or red sauce as well as a lettuce salad, a tasty three-bean salad, and a yummy dessert.
Single Meal -- $7.00
Couple's Meal -- $12.00
Family 4-Pack -- $22.00
See www.FirestoneTheatre.com for additional information.
Become a fan of Firestone Theatre on Facebook.
Tickets remain for all three performances and can be purchased at the door or in the school commons from 11:00 a.m. to 1:oo p.m. today (Friday). The school is located at333 Rampart Avenue in Akron (44313).
These performances remain:
Friday, March 26, 2010, 7:30 p.m.
Saturday, March 27, 2010, 2:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.
Audience comments so far include . . . . "Awesome!!!!" . . . .
"Great show" . . . . "bloody good" . . . . "Yet another spectacular production" . . . .
You get to eat, too, at a special spaghetti dinner held at the school between the matinee and evening performances on Saturday. Patrons of either performance as well as people not attending the show are encouraged to partake of this delicious dinner option.
SPECIAL SPAGHETTI DINNER
Saturday, March 27, 2010,
5:00 - 7:00 p.m.
This full meal includes pasta with meat or red sauce as well as a lettuce salad, a tasty three-bean salad, and a yummy dessert.
Single Meal -- $7.00
Couple's Meal -- $12.00
Family 4-Pack -- $22.00
See www.FirestoneTheatre.com for additional information.
Become a fan of Firestone Theatre on Facebook.
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