Looking Back at the Decade

by Matthew Falduto

Honestly, when people look back at the first decade of the new millennium, I think they're going to realize things didn't start out so well. From 9/11 to wars in Iraq and Afghanistan to the tsunami to Hurricane Katrina to a financial meltdown, this was not a decade to remember. However, there was one exception to this: theatre in the Iowa City area boomed in the last ten years. A small thing when compared to the tragedies listed two sentences ago, I grant you, but it is when life looks its bleakest that we need theatre the most. We need theatre to escape our real world troubles, to expand our minds with new ideas, and most importantly to exercise our emotions. All of this the Iowa City area theatres did extremely well over the past ten years. Two theatres, City Circle and Dreamwell, which both began in the late 1990s, found their footing in this decade, producing excellent shows in unique locations. Riverside, the lone professional theatre, celebrated a quarter century of quality work and created the annual Shakespeare Festival in Lower City Park. And the venerable Iowa City Community Theatre celebrated a half century of theatre and produced many memorable shows.

What follows are my lists of the best shows of Dreamwell, City Circle and ICCT from 2000 through 2009. This is extremely subjective and I don't pretend to be an unbiased observer. If you think I missed some key shows, use the comments section to express your opinion. I also asked for insight from a number of local theatre people and I've included some of their thoughts as well.

(Note: I didn't create a list of Riverside's top shows because I haven't seen enough to come up with a good list. I encourage those of you who did to share your opinions in the comments section.)

Let's start with Dreamwell, the theatre I know best. Dreamwell found its niche early in the decade and dedicated itself to bringing to stage some of the more controversial or less well known works. Thought-provoking theatre became their motto. This was perhaps the most difficult list to create. It's sort of like choosing which of your children you like best. But I gave it my best try.

Top Five Dreamwell Shows:

5. The Book of Liz (2004) - One of Dreamwell's most successful shows, David Sedaris' quirky comedy about a nun who leaves her religious community to try her luck in the outside world was performed by Dreamwell twice in the past decade. The title character was expertly portrayed by Chris Hunt and each of the other actors portrayed multiple roles. The laughs never stopped in this satirical masterpiece.

4. The Pillowman (2008) - Probably one of the most intense evenings of theatre in the past decade, this show addressed an interesting question: what are the responsibilities of the storyteller? If others act because of something we've written, are we at all to blame for their actions? It is also an exciting thriller with a gripping mystery that examines the bonds shared by brothers. Director Josh Sazon found excellent actors and created such an intense show, I, as the father of three young girls, had to turn away from the action.

3. That Day in September (2007) - 9/11 is still not an easy subject for us to talk about, let alone experience in dramatic form on stage. As far as I can remember, no other theatre in the Iowa City area directly tackled this subject and for that alone, Dreamwell has to be commended. The show was originally a one person vehicle, but we chose (with the playwright's blessing) to re-create it as an ensemble piece with each of the varied actors portraying protagonist Artie Van Why as he experienced 9/11 at Ground Zero.

2. Master Harold... and the Boys (2009) - One of Dreamwell's most recent shows, it was directed by one of the legends of Iowa City area theatre: Rachael Lindhart. As typical with Dreamwell shows, it featured a simple, yet effective set. Ro Lloyd and Thomas Henrich's heartbreaking performances as well as the strong direction made this one of Dreamwell's most memorable shows.

1. Corpus Christi (2001) - This show is an excellent example of what Dreamwell has often done very well - create a show simply, focusing on storytelling rather than big sets and elaborate costumes. An extremely controversial show as it tells the Christ story from a homosexual point of view, it is uplifting and intense and opens this classic story of faith to a population that is shunned by many Christian churches. Expertly directed by Matthew Brewbaker, with a committed cast, this show is one to remember.

Other Dreamwell shows that were mentioned by theatre folks included Glengarry Glen Ross (which had incredible performances by Gerry Roe, Matthew Brewbaker and Adam Fauser, to name just three), Kimberly Akimbo, Valparaiso, and Jacob Marley's Christmas Carol.

ICCT is the grandfather of the Iowa City area theatre community. Most of their shows were performed at the Fairgrounds although they did venture into the remodeled Englert Theatre in the past decade as well. ICCT has had its ups and downs over the past ten years. Here's hoping they can right the ship and sail smoothly for another decade.

Top Five ICCT shows:

5. One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest (2002-03) - The actors in this show made it stand out. Paul G. Thelan lead the group as McMurphy, but two supporting cast members really stood out - Luis Sierra as Chief Bromden and Danny Fairchild as Billy Bibbit. Also notable about this production was the use of an original score created by Thomas Stirling.

4. You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown (2000-01) - This musical had many memorable performances, including Thomas Williams in the title role. (Are you ever coming back to Iowa, Thomas? We miss you!) But TJ Besler as Snoopy stole the show. His energetic and crowd pleasing performance brought the show to life.

3. Bus Stop (2008-09) - This recent ICCT production showcased the talents of husband and wife team Kehry Lane and Rachel Korach Howell. They've been popping all over the place in recent years and the characters they inhabit always ring true. That was certainly the case with ICCT's version of this classic American play. Fine supporting performances by Jeremy Ping and Jeff Emrich and excellent direction by Luis Sierra made this an ICCT show of the decade.

2. Wait Until Dark (2000-01) - As I talked to people about this project, everyone mentioned how it's impossible to be objective about shows they were involved with. I almost left this show off the list because of my obvious bias (I directed it), but in the end, I couldn't. Excellent performances by Matthew Brewbaker, Jeremy Ping and Paul Chakrin made this a show to remember. Brewbaker in particular turned in a riveting performance as the evil Roat. But Wait Until Dark should be most remembered for introducing Iowa City area audiences to the immensely talented Kristy Hartsgrove, who portrayed Suzy Hendrix, the blind woman who turns the tables on Roat. Hartsgrove recently returned to Iowa City and immediately found herself in a number of Riverside shows.

1. Fiddler on the Roof (2005-06) - The other shows on this list, I saw. This one, I missed, to my regret. So I will leave it to Chris Okiishi to explain why it was one of the best shows of the decade: "The ICCT team pulled it off with a HUGE production, using every inch of the Englert stage in a way I had never seen before and rarely since. Set pieces flying in, wide expanses of color across the back, and a cast to bank on led by a professional-level Tevye (Jonathon Swenson). And the un-mic-ed cast was understandable and audible above the perfectly directed orchestra. Sublime."

Some of the other ICCT shows mentioned by theatre folks included The House of Blue Leaves, Man of la Mancha, To Kill a Mockingbird and The Baker's Wife.

City Circle is willing to tackle any kind of show. They produce the big musicals, original work, and smaller dramatic shows as well. And they understand the concept of partnership very well. Their connection to the city of Coralville will lead them into a brand new performance space just a couple of years from now. They have worked in concert with the Iowa Children's Museum to create a number of family friendly shows. They have a loyal following of artists and audience so it's safe to say we'll be creating another list like this for them in ten years.

Top Five City Circle shows:


5. Santaland Diaries (2003) - One cannot create a list like this without including Santaland Diaries. Such a successful show, it was re-created many years since it 2003 debut. And each time, Tim Budd, one of the heroes of Iowa City area theatre, offered a hilarious and biting take on Christmas and the holiday season.

4. Seussical (2006) - This show makes it onto the list despite my personal opinion that it's a pretty weak musical as written. However, what made this show memorable was the collaboration involved. City Circle and the Iowa Children's Museum worked together to create a show and an exhibit. Visitors to the Museum could watch the set be built from the ground up and even participate in the decoration and design. This sort of community involvement in a show was and is unprecedented and earns this show a place on the list.

3. Cabaret (2006) - I have to admit, I did not see Cabaret. However, as I polled various theatre people, this show was on everyone's list. It starred the talented Rachel Korach Howell as Sally Bowles and Tim Budd as Cliff (notice how certain names keep popping up on this list?). And it was directed by one of the most talented directors in the area - Michael Stokes.

2. Frozen (2008) - A terribly powerful and emotional show, Frozen demonstrated what a great director can create with an excellent script and talented actors. Steven Hunt, who has since left snowy Iowa for snowier Alaska, carefully calculated each actors' movements for maximum effect. The stark, multi-level set suggested the title and reminded the audience of the cold heart of its central character. Matthew James as the murderer was mesmerizing to watch. He has since shown his amazing range in many other productions throughout the area. This was a show that stuck in my gut and remains there to this day, churning and turning within me.

1. Metamorphoses (2004) - One of the most uniquely staged productions of the decade, Metamorphoses was done in the outdoor Coralville pool. This lead to entrances from under the water and via a water slide. This sort of imaginative and exciting work is an inspiration to all theatre creators in the area. Kudos to director Chris Okiishi for a truly one of a kind theatrical experience.

Other City Circle shows noted by theatre folks included A Year with Frog and Toad, The Full Monty, 1776, Catching the Babies and Rent (the high school version).

So there you have it. The best of the decade in my humble opinion. If you have a different viewpoint, please share it in the comments section. And as we move into 2010 and beyond, remember to keep supporting local theatre in the Iowa City area. Happy New Year!

And be sure to check out James Trainor's take on theatre in Cedar Rapids in the past decade here.

(Metamorphoses picture taken by Denny Crall.)

Is It That Time Already?

by James E. Trainor III

It's that time again, as the 00s roll over to the 10s, to take stock. What Cedar Rapids shows really stand out as memorable over the last ten years? Why? And what's this whole theatre thing all about, anyway?

Of course this list is highly subjective, and I'm sure to have missed some pretty amazing productions (according to what I've been told, for example, Moving Home is something I should not have missed), but here is my personal top five favorite shows in Cedar Rapids, 2000-2009:

5) Urinetown - Kirkwood Community College

Since I went back to school for a big chunk of the 00s, I saw a lot of college shows. It's always good to see growing artists honing their craft, and Kirkwood's faculty helps give the shows a real professional feel.

Urinetown is a satirical musical by Mark Hollmann and Greg Kotis. It tells the story of a community under the oppression of a brutal 20-year drought, and the "pay-to-pee" plan instituted by the Urine Good Company, which owns all the public toilets. Done in a fourth-wall demolishing Brechtian style, it serves as a hilarious send up of Marxist politics, the excesses of corporate greed, and the form of musical theatre itself.

Kirkwood's music program is very good, and the students shined in this production. Jillian Noah (whose soulful voice is known to fans of Funk 101) played Hope, the disastrously optimistic daughter of Caldwell B. Cladwell, the villainous head of the Urine Good Company, brilliantly acted by Ryan Westwood. Alex Chapman played Bobby Strong, the naive, headstrong boy who takes a stand and dares to "pee for free." Other notable performances included Colin Rail as Officer Lockstock, Molly Pratt as Little Sally, and Sheila Wagner as Penelope Pennywise.

The design of the show created a wonderful environment. Doug Anderson's lighting design created the dark, cynical atmosphere of this story, and his set gave the cast plenty of room for this rather large show. Annie Noah's costumes reinforced the themes quite well; when the poor people stood up to the rich in the end of the first act, it looked like something lifted directly from an old propaganda poster. All in all, a hilarious and thought-provoking piece.

4) Cosi - Theatre Cedar Rapids

Of all the diverse shows I've seen at TCR in the past ten years, the fun and outrageous Cosi is actually the one that makes me the most sentimental. I think it was the clash of the idealistic protagonist with the grim realities of mental illness that drew me into the piece. It's based on playwright Louis Nowra's own experience in 1971, when he was hired to direct Gilbert & Sullivan's Trial By Jury at a mental institution. In Cosi, the play has been changed to Mozart's Cosi fan tutte, but the time and task are the same. Lewis (played passionately and honestly by Gareth Strope), the protagonist, at first clinging to his baby-boomer idealism, discovers real, practical, messy humanity in these people, and in the process reaches a deeper understanding of what it means to make a difference in the world.

As I recall, there was nothing fancy in this show; it was just good storytelling. Richard Barker's direction was unencumbered and straightforward, and the energetic performances of Jason Alberty, Marty Norton, David McCauley and David E. Hein were delightfully funny while still getting the message across. This charming production is one of my fondest recent memories of TCR.

3) A Number - Stage Left Productions.

Stage Left was a short-lived but energetic project, charged with bringing affordable and thought-provoking theatre to the Cedar Rapids area. Many of their productions were a little raw around the edges, but Caryl Churchill's A Number stood out as being carefully planned and artfully produced. Steven Marc Weiss and Steve Wunderlich performed in this two-hander, and Josh Beadle directed.

Churchill has a knack for dropping the audience directly into an intense emotional moment without needing to spend a lot of time on backstory. What can be pieced together about the plot of A Number is this: Salter at some point cloned his son, in order to make up for his catastrophic failure as a father the first time around. However, he got more than he bargained for, and as the show opens we learn that there are an unspecified number of clones walking around.

The plot may sound a little far-fetched, but the play is really about universal emotional issues: the problems of fatherhood and the difficulty of putting one's finger on personal identity. Weiss and Wunderlich did a lot of work on Churchill's extremely challenging text in order to bring it to Cedar Rapids, at the Paul Engle Center for Neighborhood Arts. The small, three-quarter round set was very effective in setting an intimate mood for this piece.

A Number was one of the most professional and effective shows of the short-lived Stage Left Productions, and my personal favorite.

2) Pillowman - Urban Theater Project

UTP shows are few and far between, but they have enough of an effect on the community that the company deserves a mention here. The brainchild of Leslie Charipar, the Urban Theatre Project strives to bring Cedar Rapids, in the words of its website, "its own brand of visceral, messy, in-your-face theater in non-theatrical settings all over the city."

Martin McDonagh's Pillowman was directed by Jason Alberty, who took over as Artistic Director when Charipar was succeeded Richard Barker at Theatre Cedar Rapids. The production took place in the empty space above Blend, which contributed a lot to its toned-down, minimalist approach.

McDonagh's play is a mix of gritty realism and Orwellian fantasy. Katurian is an writer of horror stories who is being interrogated by the police in an unspecified totalitarian state. The police believe the subject matter in his stories, most of which deal with children being gruesomely murdered, connects him to a recent string of disappearances. We soon learn the truth, but not before we are introduced to the macabre background stories of Katurian, his brother Michael, and the two detectives.

This is dark comedy at its finest, and Jason Alberty certainly stepped up to the task here. I think the best thing about this production was that everything was hemmed in; the set was simple and functional, and nearly all of the extras were replaced by some rather chilling animation shorts (produced by Paul Huenemann and Right Purdy Productions).

Most significantly, the performances themselves were minimalistic. One expects outrageous flights of fancy from Jason Alberty, but the humor here was rather small and subtle. Jim Kropa, who played Katurian, was intensely committed throughout the piece. Only for brief moments did he seem to get lost in his head; for most of the time he was entirely present, acting moment to moment. Scott Humeston, who played Tupolski, was subtle and never over-performed. His approach to the material was simple and his objective work was clear, and the result was that his wry sense of humor really showed through. On the other end of the spectrum, Alex Williams was a delight. A terrifying delight, to be sure, but there was something magnetic about his portrayal of the psychotically violent Ariel. Though his approach was a lot more dynamic than the others, every bit of physical work was well thought-out and full of dramatic purpose.

I really enjoyed this show. A great script, a great cast, and skillful direction made it one of my favorites.

1) The Crucible - Classics at Brucemore

There's something about the right show at the right time that reminds us why we do theatre. The Crucible, Arthur Miller's masterful indictment of McCarthy-era politics, was the perfect selection for the summer of 2002, when the civil-rights abuses of the PATRIOT Act were fresh in our minds.

Perhaps choosing the right play would have been enough, but this production, director by Jim Kern, made such a lasting impression on me for two reasons. First, they made excellent use of the Brucemore grounds, which is not always suited to a lot of shows that are produced there. I was particularly struck by the way the show started. There was no announcement or curtain speech; rather, the girls ran off to play at witchcraft in the woods, drawing the audience's attention offstage, and Parris ran off to catch them at it. Other scenes made simple and effective use of what really can be a magical playing space.

Second, the acting was simply superb. Everyone involved seems to understand the stakes in the story, and everyone was honest, passionate and committed. In particular, David McCauley was frightening as the ruthless Deputy Governor Danforth, and Rip Russell was strong and noble as the complex John Proctor. His stand against authority was particularly reassuring at the time, at the beginning of the Bush years, as it served to remind me that I was not alone in being troubled by the aggressive stance being taken by the newly authoritarian government. Dramatizing a resistance to injustice gives us a feeling of control over our own destiny.

And perhaps that's what theatre is for: to look at issues that are too complex be covered in a sound byte. To show us not only our opponents' follies, but our own. To act out our struggles, both small and large, right now, in front of us, using real people and physical props. It's an incredible philosophical exercise, to sit safely in the cover of darkness, while we take a stand against the oppressive state by proxy.

Or are crushed underneath its heel, if only our stories can be saved. Or question our fathers, or heal the sick, or lead a hopeless revolution with an optimistic song. All of these shows, in different ways, reminded me why I love the theatre, and how lucky I am to have such a variety of quality theatre here at home.

Of course, I've left a lot out. Congratulations to the successes of all Cedar Rapids theaters, big and small, and good luck in the next ten years. I can't wait to see what 2010 will bring.

(For some thoughts about theatre in the Iowa City area, check out Matt Falduto's piece here.)

Eulenspiegel Puppet Theatre Turns 35

by James Trainor

Sal Fink lives in a small box - a suitcase, really. It can't be comfortable in there, and she probably doesn't get much sunlight or air. It's okay, though; she doesn't mind. She's only a puppet.

When Monica Leo pulls her out of the box, however, she becomes much more. This construction of wood and fabric comes to life in the hands of her creator. "It's all about focus," Leo says. "You can tell when the puppeteer's attention isn't entirely on the puppet." A puppeteer, then, is a performing artist as well as a craftsman; with her dedication and skill, she brings the inanimate to life.

Even in the age of high-tech media, we're fascinated by puppets. Something about the ancient art of puppetry captures the imagination of generation after generation. Leo says there has been something of a "puppet Renaissance" lately, citing the Tony awarded to Avenue Q and films devoted to puppets and puppeteers as varied as Being John Malkovich and Team America. Puppetry is a versatile way to tell a story: "you can play anything you want," says Leo. "You aren't limited by your age or gender." A puppeteer can craft an entire world in the workshop, and breathe life into it on the stage.

Monica Leo is a founding member of the Eulenspiegel Puppet Theatre in West Liberty, Iowa. She graduated in 1968, and after taking a brief job at the Milwaukee County Detention Home, she began to make a living making and selling puppets at art fairs. She describes the spirit of the time as exciting and encouraging. "It was a fertile time for craftsmanship," she says. In 1974, her neighbor Deanne Wortman suggested they start a puppet theatre. The name "Eulenspiegel" comes from Till Eulenspiegel, a mischievous trickster in German folklore. The name of the Owl Glass Puppetry Center, where Eulenspiegel presents some of its smaller works, is also a reference to Till Eulenspiegel.

Other puppeteers joined the troupe in the early years, but the group eventually settled down into a duo: Monica Leo and Teri Jean Breitbach. Leo and Breitbach have been the creative force for much of Eulenspiegel's history. Recently they have begun collaborating with other artists - not only puppeteers but musicians, directors, playwrights and choreographers.

One of the weaknesses of puppeteers, according to Leo, is that they tend to be solo artists. "You begin to think you can do it all," she says. "So it's good to have fresh brains." Since the 1990s, Eulenspiegel has been working with a variety of artists both local and international.

Eulenspiegel has a particular interest in folk tales, partly because the artists are drawn to them and they can be repeated many times. The classification "folk tale" is quite broad, of course, and Eulenspiegel draws on stories from many cultures: German (The Frog Prince, Education of a Donkey), French (Little Red Riding Hood), Native American (The Adventures of Great Rabbit), and Japanese (the upcoming In the Mirror: Three Tales from Asia), to name a few. Many of these have an educational bent, teaching children traditional stories while also teaching them about the cultures that tell them. For this reason, Eulenspiegel works closely with local schools.

Finding a "curriculum connection" is difficult, given the rather stringent curriculum requirements placed on today's schools, but not impossible. "You can usually find a connection," says Leo. "You just have to think outside the box."

One historical piece found a very specific local collection: Floyd Pearce, when doing research for his book on the Underground Railroad, learned that John Brown had used the West Liberty depot to send freed slaves north to Chicago and Canada. Yes, the actual railroad was used as part of the Underground Railroad! The cars were being searched, so it is very unlikely that the slaves made it to freedom without the community's help. When Leo heard this story, she knew it would be perfect for the show Freedom Star, which dealt with these events. Leo was very pleased with the show. "It's the first time the audience has responded with both tears and laughter," she says. The story gives people a real personal sense of history; they learn their ancestors may have been at the West Liberty depot, waving at the refugees and wishing them good luck. "It's a good feeling," says Leo.

This year marks Eulenspiegel's 35th anniversary. Leo is happy with the way the company has grown; one important landmark was the recent addition of a paid Outreach Director, Chris Martin, to the staff. When asked what the future might hold, she is unsure but optimistic. "It's hard to see where the world will go," she says. "You just hop in and let the ride take you."

After 35 years, Eulenspiegel is still as active as ever. On January 24th, they will go straight from performing In the Mirror: Three Tales from Asia to a "puppet parade" at the 4th annual Ickys (ICCA's Excellence in Innovation awards). Look here for more information on Eulenspiegel's upcoming shows.

Poona cast announced

Dreamwell - The cast of Dreamwell Theatre's production of Poona the F**kdog by Jeff Goode has been chosen. Directors Brian Tanner and Meg Dobbs have settled on actors for all of the main characters. Smaller roles will be assigned at the first rehearsal. Nearly every actor portrays at least two characters. The play includes some unique characters. Besides the title character, there is an alien named C*nt and a singing penis. John Crosheck, cast as the penis, referred to it as "the role of a lifetime." For the record, Dreamwell's 2010 season is called "A Taboo Bijou."

Cast (alphabetical order)
John Crosheck - Penis, Jasper
Libby Dobbs - Poona
Meg Dobbs - Frog
Brett Janecek - Shrub, Jack Jacobs, Storyteller 1
Stephen Pochert - God, Mr. Beer
Dre Prizant - TV, Suzy-Suzy
Robyn McCright - Storyteller 2, Angel Mike
Kevin Moore - Prince, Computer
Brad Quinn - Guard, Telegram, more
Elisabeth Ross - C*nt, Angel Gabby
Brian Tanner - Rabbit, Aide
Ben Ward - Man Who Could Sell Anything, Devil

Old Creamery announces auditions for 2010 season

Old Creamery - The Old Creamery Theatre in Amana will hold auditions in January for its 2010 season. Unlike other area theatres which hold auditions for each show, Old Creamery holds auditions once each year to find a group of actors for their season.

The auditions will be Saturday January 23, 2010, from 2:30pm – 6:30pm and Sunday January 24, 2010, from 1pm – 5pm at the Old Creamery Theatre, 39 38th Avenue in Amana. To schedule an appointment, please call the business office at (319) 622-6034 after January 18, 2010. If you are unable to attend these auditions, please send a headshot and resume to:

Sean McCall - Artistic Director
The Old Creamery Theatre Company
39 38th Ave.
Amana, IA 52203

Or email them to smccall@oldcreamery.com.

Actors should prepare two short contrasting monologues (max. 1 minute each), one of which should be a comic piece (preferably contemporary). Singers (in addition to the short monologues) should prepare 16 to 32 bars of one (or two contrasting) song(s) sung a cappella or with recorded accompaniment. (A CD player will be available, however no accompanist will be provided.) Actors should bring a current picture and resume.

Old Creamery is seeking Equity and non-Equity performers of various ages (including post-college interns) to fill roles in The Old Creamery’s 2010 Main Stage, Studio, and Theatre for Young Audience series.

Old Creamery is particularly seeking two interns with strong musical theatre skills with fall 2010 availability. Possibilities include female role in the currently unannounced fall main stage slot and the male role of “Jinx” in Plaid Tidings. Membership and applicable weeks in Equity’s EMC program are available for main stage productions only.

Old Creamery 2010 season

Old Creamery - Old Creamery has announced most of its 2010 season. Old Creamery is one of just a few theaters in the area that has a calendar year season rather than following the academic year. One show remains a mystery as they work to secure the rights cannot announce the show at this time (see correction in the comments). They give us a few clues: if you liked Steel Magnolias and Nunsense, you'll like this musical comedy. Steel Magnolias has some women vs. men themes and of course Nunsense features great singing opportunities for women. Couple that with the rights being tough to get... and I'm thinking Chicago. Feel free to put your guesses in the comments section.

Everybody Loves Opal, April 29 – May 23
By John Patrick
And everybody will love Old Creamery funny lady, Marquetta Senters, as Opal Kronkie. Ever the optimist, Opal has faith in the goodness of people. When three “friends” decide Opal needs plenty of insurance and a rapid demise, she still radiates kindness, affection, and strangely enough, gratitude! Laughter abounds as the con-artists attempt to do her in, but somehow Opal always manages to come out on top.
THEATRE PG

Rumors, June 3 – July 3
By Neil Simon
What is supposed to be an anniversary party for New York’s deputy mayor turns into a wild night of zany adventures for four couples. An attempted suicide (or is it?), a missing hostess, a damaged car, recurring back spasms, and rumors galore all add to the comedic mayhem of one of Neil Simon’s funniest plays.
THEATRE PG-13

A Don’t Hug Me County Fair, July 15 – August 15
Book and Lyrics by Phil Olson, Music by Paul Olson
Oh, for spilling the mosquito repellent! Its summertime in Minnesota and the folks from Bunyan Bay are back in an all new show. It’s County Fair time and the Miss Walleye competition is in full swing. Things get tense as Bernice and Clara both vie for the crown, but the real trouble (and hilarity) begins when Gunner’s “twin” sister shows up to enter the contest. Paul Bunyan gives it two BIG thumbs up!
THEATRE PG

????????, September 9 – October 17
by ???????
This show is top secret! The Old Creamery has been trying to get the rights to this crowd pleasing musical comedy for over four years and we finally did it… we just can’t tell you the title until January. But rest assured, if you’ve enjoyed shows like Nunsense and Steel Magnolias, you’ll love this one too.

Blithe Spirit, October 21 – November 14
By Noel Coward
Marriage can be difficult enough, but what if the ghost of your first wife moves in with you and your new wife and only you can see her? That’s exactly what happens to Charles when an eccentric psychic accidentally brings back the spirit of his late wife, setting off a hilarious battle between the women for rightful possession of their husband.
THEATRE PG

Plaid Tidings, November 18 – December 19
By Stuart Ross
Are you dreaming of a Plaid Christmas? Good! Because the boys from Forever Plaid are back to complete a special mission: they must use their heavenly harmonies and humor to help us celebrate the season to its fullest! Sparky, Jinx, Smudge, and Frankie will deliver dozens of your 50’s and holiday favorites all wrapped up with a big Plaid bow.
THEATRE G

Studio Series (2010's Theme: Made in America)

The Glass Menagerie, April 8 – April 25
By Tennessee Williams
THEATRE PG

Red, White & Tuna, August 19 – September 5
By Jaston Williams, Joe Sears, and Ed Howard
THEATRE PG-13

Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf, September 30 – October 17
By Edward Albee
THEATRE R

Icky theatre nominations announced

Several local theatres were honored for 2009 events last night when the Iowa Cultural Corridor Alliance announced the nominations for the the 4th Annual Excellence in Innovation Awards (aka as "The Ickys"). This year Icky Awards will be Sunday, Jan. 24,2010, from 7 to 9 p.m., at Sinclair Auditorium, on the Coe College campus, 1220 First Ave. NE, Cedar Rapids.

The event serves as the signature event and annual meeting for the cultural nonprofit that serves arts organizations throughout the Corridor. Hosted by Scott Schulte and Ric Swann from the Schulte and Swann radio show on KZIA 102.9, the event will be preceded by a Red Carpet reception that will include a complementary hors d'oeuvres buffet, art and history exhibit and cash bar. As guests enter, they will be greeted by faux paparazzi, Hollywood-style lights, and television cameras supplied by Public Access Television - Iowa City.

The nominations for the theatre programming category are:

The Drag by Mae West
Dreamwell Theatre

From the Homefront by Thomas P. Johnson
Iowa Theatre Artists Company

Theatre from the Passage
Legion Arts

The Writer's Room Series by Various Authors
SPT Theatre Company

Altar Boyz
Theatre Cedar Rapids

Local theatres also popped up in other categories. Old Creamery Theatre received two nomations: Problem Solved was nominated for Educational Programming and Young Abe was nominated in the History Programming category. City Circle, Dreamwell Theatre and the Englert Theatre were nominated for the All in a Day Play Festival in the ICCA Collaborative Award, which is awarded to ICCA organizations who work together on a cultural event. In the Locally-Produced Festival category, Eulenspiegel Puppet Theatre was nominated for the West Liberty Children's Festival. Finally, a special shout out to the Cedar Rapids Children's Theatre, who were nominated for their production of Aladdin at Jefferson High School in the Children's Programming category.

A self nomination process debuted this year. Each organization nominated their events in particular categories. The nomination committee then read short essays written by representatives of the nominating organizations. The essays made the case for why a particular program was innovative. The nomination committee then narrowed down each category to no more than five entries. Some categories had over twenty nominations, making the process of selecting five a real challenge.

Tickets for the event are $20 and are available through the Orchestra Iowa box office at (319) 369-TUNE. The ballot, released today, will be circulated to all 150 member-organizations of ICCA in early January, and will result in the sealed-ballot awards show live at Sinclair Auditorium on Sunday, Jan. 24, in a formal but fun ceremony.

City Circle postpones New Play Festival

City Circle - A notice on the City Circle website indicates that their New Play Festival has been postponed until later in 2010. Details expected sometime in January.

From the website: "The New Play Festival will feature the work of a fresh crop of talented local authors. Each New Play Festival results in a wide range of selections that run the gamut from bold comedy to engaging drama and everything in between."

City Circle's Christmas Carol with a twist works well

by Meghan D'Souza

City Circle - When I read the title A Christmas Carol Radio Play for the first time, I subconsciously eliminated "Radio Play" and my mind flashed to my sole experience with the Charles Dickens classic A Christmas Carol. That would be when I watched Donald Duck portray the role of Ebenezer Scrooge in Mickey's Christmas Carol in the 1980s. So I knew the basics: Grumpy Rich Man hates Christmas and takes it out on everyone, especially his Poor Employee. Poor Employee is an overworked, underpaid family man, but still appreciates everything in life, particularly every breathing moment of his sickly son's life. Grumpy Man is visited by three spirits - Christmas Past, Christmas Present and Christmas Future - and once he sees how his hurtful ways has affected everyone, yet they continue to live with love in their hearts, he changes and learns to spread joy and share his wealth.

I think everyone is familiar with this play in one way or another. We've heard of "being a scrooge" or Tiny Tim or some reference to the story. So what was fun about this play in particular was the "radio" twist. The play was set up so the actors were all sitting in a choir, except for six who spent the whole play specifically working on sound effects and narrating. Many of the actors in the choir also had roles in telling the story. This meant that the actors had to keep up their assigned persona while in the background with the choir, then take that persona to the radio microphone to act out a scene.

For instance, John Bednarik was I.B. Dramatico when he sat in the choir. As his character's name implies, he was dramatic, egocentric, and had a big presence on stage. Back in the choir, Bednarik was fabulous at being Dramatico at all times, in his facial expressions and in how he held himself. Then it was time for I.B. Dramitico to step up to the microphone as the Ghost of Christmas Present. Grand, spirited, and proud to be in the spotlight, it was clearly I.B. Dramatico playing the ghost, not Bednarick jumping to a new character. It is challenging enough just to explain, but to successfully act it out was no easy task. Top hats off to Bednarick.

Because this was a radio play, a lot was asked of the actors. Not only did they play actors who played actors, but they all provided sound effects, sang as a choir, some sang solos and played the piano and violin. As mentioned before, six actors in particular stood behind the choir and focused primarily on sound effects, which, combined with the lighting, really set the mood throughout the play. Before the play, I wondered if having them provide all of the sound effects as they told the story would be distracting. I am an easily distracted person and could see myself focusing entirely on how the sounds were made and forgetting about the story, entirely. I made note that rubbing chains together, throwing luggage down, shaking heavy aluminum, dropping a flower pot into a styrofoam box from approximately 9 ft high, among so many other actions, were used to make the story come alive. But it didn't distract me. Just as we watch movies without realizing that the background noises, all the way down to the footsteps, were added later, I hardly noticed that these sounds were being made by the people who weren't standing in one of the three spotlights. They just pulled me into the story. In fact, when the chains were combined with whispers and "woooo"'s of the choir to signify the arrival of a ghost, I was actually feeling pretty spooked. The lighting was dark, save for a spotlight on a shaken Ebenezer Scrooge, played very well by Josh Sazon, and a soft light glowing on the choir and slowly appearing on the ghost. It didn't matter that I could see who and what was making the noise; I can't deny that it was scary. Mission accomplished.

Actually, I felt everything emoted by Sazon. I love when an actor is 100% their character and Sazon was Ebenezer Scrooge. He was angry, he was troubled, he was frightened, he was upset, he transformed and became outlandishly giddy with joy. It all felt real. His booming voice just happened to be the perfect voice for an Ebenezer Scrooge, which is also perfect, considering this was for a radio play, but for those of us in the "live studio audience," his facial expressions pulled everything together and made it very real. I can not fathom seeing another A Christmas Carol played by a better Ebenezer. Not even Donald Duck.

This play featured 31 actors. Every single person pulled together to make this play the success that it was. The sound effects and story-telling techniques were a unique and refreshing way to watch a classic play. The choir sang familiar carols beautifully. The acting moved me. I could not have asked for more from a play.


Meghan D'Souza lives in Coralville with her husband and beloved dog. She is a University of Iowa graduate and works at the Iowa City Public Library. She has written for The Burlington Hawk Eye and is currently a freelance writer.

Free Christmas Concert at ITAC

ITAC - The Iowa Theatre Artists Company will host a free Christmas Concert by The Great Bluegrass Herons and Friends on Sunday evening, December 13 at 7 pm. The Great Bluegrass Heron are a musical group from the Hills/Sharon Center area featuring Mark and Janet Wilson and Paul and Julie Roberts. Mark Wilson and Paul Roberts are currently on stage in the ITAC production, All Wrapped Up for Christmas. Also performing that evening will be Karl Bodenbender of East Amana, Bob Black of North English, Al and Aleta Murphy of Iowa City, Audrey Yoder of Sharon Center, The Andy Wilcom Trio of the Kalona area and Meg Merckens of South Amana. The evening promises to be one of music, song and staged readings; everyone is welcome to join in the fun.

Wonderful Town cast announced

ICCT - Director Ben Bentler announced the cast of ICCT's musical Wonderful Town on the show's website.

Cast
Appopolous - Kehry Lane
Lonigan - Jim Very
Helen - Claire Barnhart
Wreck - Luke Schares
Violet - Dawn Clark
Valenti - Andrew Cole
Eileen - Angelique Vandorpe
Ruth - Lauren Baker
Robert Baker - Brian Quijada
Mrs. Wade - Jen Gerbyshak
Frank Lippencott - Tyler Lynch
Chick Clark - Anthony Nelson

Ensemble (alphabetical order):
Janell Barrow
Aaron Brewer
Rachel Brown
Dominique Deery
Anamaria DeLaCruz
Jessica Faselt
Rachel Hileman
Megan Henry
CJ Jones
Brian Langr
Erin Mills
Joe Mosher
Megan Renner
Alicia Smith
Olivia Symmonds
Ken VanEdgon
Jason Verber
Joseph Very
Teresa Wagner

City Circle offers unique take on classic story

City Circle - City Circle Acting Company of Coralville will present A Christmas Carol Radio Play December 11-13 and 17-19 at the Iowa Children’s Museum at Coral Ridge Mall. Thursday, Friday, and Saturday performances are at 7:30 p.m. and the Sunday performance is at 2 p.m.

A Christmas Carol Radio Play follows one of the most popular and enduring Christmas stories of all time. Complete with audio and dramatic effects, this play captures the sounds of old-time radio theater in the classic tale of Ebenezer Scrooge.

Adapted by Tony Palermo from the novel by Charles Dickens, this heartwarming production features a cast of 31 adults and children with live music, choral singing, and a few musical surprises. The cast members play all the roles, provide all the music, and create a magical world through sound.

This version of the Dickens story is faithful to the original story in many ways, but the production will be a unique experience for the audience. Set in a radio studio where the theater audience is literally the in-studio audience, the play will unfold as told by a troupe of radio actors and the sound effects technicians who support them.

For example, when Scrooge trudges across the snow or Marley rattles his chains, the audience will see a team of six people creating these sound effects on stage.

In addition, as actors were cast on vocal talent alone, there are several playing roles they never would in a typical theatrical presentation.

This is a must-see for the whole family because the play has many important messages — a timeless and perhaps timely reminder of the simple value of the holiday spirit, that greed and ill-temper lead us to unhappiness and solitude, and that it is never too late to embrace humanity.

Under the direction of Chris Okiishi, his creative team includes Emil Rinderspacher as stage manager and assistant director, lighting design by Soren Olsen, sound design by David Medin, technical supervision by Maria Schroeder, and costumes by Noel and Leah VanDerBosch.

As Okiishi explains, "We are excited to tell this classic story in an unusual way—a way that encourages the audience to imagine the world of Dickens, Scrooge, and the ghosts for themselves and focuses on the sounds and words in the story. Indeed, this production gets back to the storytelling roots of live theater. We invite everyone to come join us for one heck of a good ghost story!"

Tickets are $8 for youth and seniors and $10 for adults and are available at the Coralville Recreation Center and J. Frahm Music in Iowa City, or by calling 319-248-1750. The theater box office at the Iowa Children’s Museum will open 45 minutes prior to each performance for walk up sales or will call pickup.

Cast:

Noel VanDerBosch (Iowa City)
Leah VanDerBosch (Iowa City)
Abi Leveille (North Liberty)
Josh Sazon (North Liberty)
Roxanne Gustaveson (Iowa City)
Lily Reitz (Iowa City)
Heidi Brown (Iowa City)
Michael Kammerer (Iowa City)
Matthew James (Iowa City)
Amy Ostrem (Iowa City)
Andrew Wilkes (Iowa City)
Jason Millsap (Iowa City)
Crystal Danger (North Liberty)
Melissa Malloy (Iowa City)
Kehry Lane (Iowa City)
John Bednarik (North Liberty)
David Medin (Cedar Rapids)
Dawson Medin (Cedar Rapids)
Rachel Howell (Iowa City)
Wendy Ostrem (Iowa City)
Elaine Hayes Reitz (Iowa City)
Mikayla Reighley (Iowa City)
Ariel Marie Hayes (Coralville)
Katie Eaton (Coralville)
Ashley Blair (Hills)
Rachel Stewart (Iowa City)
Laurel Tippe (Iowa City)
Jeff Stewart (Iowa City)
Tim Waldron (Iowa City)
Michael Cicha (Iowa City)
Alicia Hoecherl (Iowa City)

Deathtrap Auditions this weekend

City Circle - Auditions for Deathtrap will be held Saturday, December 5 from noon-2pm at the Iowa Children's Musuem in the Coralville Mall. Email deathtrap@citycircle.org to schedule an audition. Auditioners are asked to prepare a two minute monologue that shows range and ability. Callbacks will be Sunday, December 6 from noon-4pm. The show opens March 4th, 2010. It is directed by Alex Iben.

City Circle announces shows under consideration

by Matthew Falduto

City Circle - At their membership meeting in November, City Circle announced a list of shows they are considering for their next two seasons. They are asking directors to contact them by emailing Megan Sands if they are interested in directing a particular show. The 2011-12 season includes the first show that will be presented at the new Coralville Center for the Performing Arts. There are many very different options on the list which is unsurprising from the theatre that brought Coralville both the intense serial killer play Frozen and the various Nunsense musicals.

Of particular note is the 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, the 2005 Tony award winning musical which has not been produced in this area. On the non-musical side, City Circle lists God of Carnage, the 2009 Tony award winning play, as well as Frost/Nixon, another Tony award winner from a few years ago. Of course, there are community theatre staples on list as well, such as Guys and Dolls and the ambitious Noises Off.

Nunsense is also on the list. Apparently there is some talk of bringing it back for the first show at the new Coralville Performing Arts Center since it was City Circle's first show. Speaking on behalf of only myself... City Circle, we all loved Nunsense and the actresses were wonderfully funny... but please look to the future. Give us a big splashy musical to open the new space. Or maybe a Noises Off to show off what you can do with a great performance venue.

UPDATE: Sources tell me Nunsense won't be the new space opener. Whew!

Musicals
1776
25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee
42nd Street
A Funny Thing Happened. . . Forum
Aida
Anything Goes
Celebration
Curtains
Dirty Rotten Scoundrels
Drowsy Chaperone
The Fantasticks
Forever Plaid
Godspell (High School)
Guys and Dolls
Jesus Christ Superstar (High School)
Kiss Me, Kate
Legally Blonde
Les Mis (High-School)
Mame
Meet Me in St. Louis
Music Man
Nine
Nunsense
Once On This Island
The Producers
Songs For A New World
South Pacific
Sweeney Todd
Thoroughly Modern Millie
West Side Story (High School)
White Christmas
You’re A Good Man Charlie Brown
Peter Pan
Rent
Rent (High School)
Hairspray

Plays
A Tuna Christmas
Absurd Person Singular
Amadeus
Black Comedy
Blithe Spirit
Charley’s Aunt
Copenhagen
Frost/Nixon
Harvey
Importance of Being Earnest
Love, Valor, Compassion
Noises Off
Oleanna
Our Town
Proof
Ragweed Cowboy Joe
Rosencrantz and Guilderstern are Dead
The Boys in the Band
The Butler Did It
Twelve Angry Men
Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolfe
Blackbird
Look Homeward Angel
Catchin' The Babies
God of Carnage
Richard III
Diary of Anne Frank
Little Dog Laughed

Riverside's Tag Sale Project sold out!

Riverside - All shows are sold out for Iowa City playwright Maggie Conroy’s real-life story of five friends and a yard sale. The staged reading of The Tag Sale Project will be performed December 11-13. Interested parties may call the Riverside Theatre Box Office at (319) 338-7672 to be placed on a waiting list.

Iowa City resident Maggie Conroy created The Tag Sale Project based on the real-life email messages and reflections of five friends who decided to clean out their houses and have a yard sale. The play chronicles the scheduling and sorting challenges that occur in the months prior to the tag sale, and the lesson on friendship and deeper awareness of the things worth holding on to that remain after the event is over.

Conroy, in collaboration with Riverside founders Ron Clark and Jody Hovland, will direct the staged reading. The friends depicted in the play will perform as themselves: Maggie Conroy, Nancy Hauserman, Casey Mahon, Mary New and Susan Shullaw. All have deep roots in the Iowa City community, a factor which undoubtedly drove the ticket demand.

"We asked the performers if we could add another show so more people could see it, and they graciously accommodated us, but the calls are still coming in," said Hovland.

More information available here.

TCR annouces Producers cast

TCR - Opting not to have callbacks, the directing team of Leslie Charipar, Janelle Lauer and Analia Alegre-Femenias have chosen a cast for The Producers.

Max Bialystock: Scott Schulte
Leo Bloom: Trevor Debth
Roger Debris: Tim Boyle
Carmen Ghia: Nathan Cooper
Franz Liebkind: Jason Alberty
Ulla: Katie Knutson

Ensemble:
Heather Akers
Richie Akers
Brian Anderson
Jennifer Anderson
Jared Cameron Anson
Barney Conroy
Tina Conroy
Ryan Foizey
Bradley Fritz
Zach Johnson
Angela Meisterling
Emily Nelson
Andie Paasch
Zach Parker
Janda Pino
Sally Sandberg
Alex Schulte
Greg Smith
Amy Stoner
Jamie Toledo

The Producers is a musical adapted by Mel Brooks and Thomas Meehan from Brooks' 1968 film of the same name, with lyrics by Brooks and music by Brooks and Glen Kelly. As in the film, the story concerns two theatrical producers who scheme to get rich by overselling interests in a Broadway flop. Complications arise when the show unexpectedly turns out to be successful. TCR's production opens February 26 as the first show to take place in the renovated and re-opened Iowa Theater Building downtown, which was devastated by the 2008 Flood.

Cast list for Laramie Project

TCR - Theatre Cedar Rapids announced the cast list for The Laramie Project by Moisés Kaufman.

Anonymous Actor – Sarah Jarmon
Barbara Pitts – Jennie Kies
Amanda Gronich – BJ Moeller
Leigh Fondakowski – Jessica Moore
Narrator – Brian Smith
Moisés Kaufman – Philip Schramp
Stephen Belber – Ben Ward
Greg Pierotti – Mike Wilhelm
Andy Paris – Alex Williams

The Laramie Project is a play by Moisés Kaufman and members of the Tectonic Theater Project about the reaction to the 1998 murder of University of Wyoming student Matthew Shepard in Laramie, Wyoming. Shepard was gay and the attack was motivated by homophobia. The play draws on hundreds of interviews conducted by the theatre company with inhabitants of the town, company members' own journal entries and published news reports. TCR's production opens January 15, 2010. For more information, go here.