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Review of "The Last Five Years" at Lakeland Civic Theatre
by Bob Abelman via NEohioPAL 19 Sep '16

19 Sep '16

Lakeland’s ‘The Last Five Years’ is charming in spite of itself Bob Abelman Cleveland Jewish News, The News Herald, The Morning Journal Member, International Association of Theatre Critics At the heart of Jason Robert Brown’s intensely personal musical “The Last Five Years” is a simple story about a singular event: The failed marriage between Cathy Hiatt, a young, aspiring but unaccomplished New York actress, and Jamie Wellerstein, a highly successful first novelist. The play begins with Cathy at the depressing end of the relationship, where she sings the tender-to-the touch torch song “Still Hurting.” Jamie is at the relationship’s joyful beginning, singing about a girl he just met in the up-beat “Shiksa Goddess.” As the play progresses, their respective timelines converge, cross, and once again careen in opposite directions, leaving Cathy at the conception of the relationship and Jamie at its conclusion as the lights fade to black. This remarkable piece of slice-of-life storytelling, first staged in Chicago in 2001 and then produced Off-Broadway in 2002, is told exclusively through songs that run the gamut in range, tempo and temperament. Nearly every one of them is an intricate and strenuous vocal callisthenic that tests the metal of the performers. Neely Gevaart and Jason Leupold possess all of these qualities in this enchanting Lakeland Civic Theatre production. For more of this review, go to www.clevelandjewishnews.com/columnists/.

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Climbing our final mountain!
by Bette Lou Higgins/Eden Valley Enterprises via NEohioPAL 19 Sep '16

19 Sep '16

One of our donors, Ms. Laurie Potteiger, Information Services Manager of the Appalachian Trail Conservancy and an Appalachian Trail Thru-Hiker, told me that the “... last 5 miles ... are very challenging. The A.T. up Katahdin is debatably the toughest climb on the entire A.T. Some sections are so steep that rebar is drilled into the rock to help you ascend or descend, and the section of the A.T. above treeline on Katahdin is very exposed.” Of course, what Laurie doesn’t say is that after you’ve hiked that last 5 miles, you’ve got to hike them AGAIN in order to get back down – so basically, those last 10 miles are killers! Since you have joined us on our hike up our own version of the Appalachian Trail – guess where we are? You got it – the last 10 miles! We’ve made it through the first 2,040 miles of Grandma Gatewood’s hike – we finished our storytelling program, our one-act play and in May, 2015, we premiered our documentary, TRAIL MAGIC: THE GRANDMA GATEWOOD STORY, to two sold-out houses, and it has since been seen by more than 1,900 people. Hikers at the Appalachian Long Distance Hiker Association’s annual gathering applauded Emma for being ahead of the pack in lightweight backpacking which is now common. The Lake Erie Arts & Film Festival enjoyed the marvelous canvas of her life and Emma’s grandson, Carl, wrote, “... outstanding work on TRAIL MAGIC - Grandma would be so proud & honored." Since then, the documentary made its PBS premier on WOUB on June 14, 2016 and is now available to other PBS stations. Now we’re facing our “Katahdin” and we need your help to keep up our momentum to get to the top (and back down)! So, we’re launching a fundraising drive to assist with making Grandma Gatewood’s story more accessible to groups and individuals. Emma’s story has a wide appeal, and presentations of the storytelling program, play and film have been seen by more than 4,000 people! With your help, we can reach many more! Our goal is simple. Raise $5000 by December 31, 2016. This is a modest goal and, with your help, completely attainable. Funds are needed to: 1. Pay for closed captioning of the documentary for PBS so more can benefit from her inspiring story. 2. Pay for duplication of a saleable DVD.This will provide renewable resources for the Grandma Gatewood project and allow it to reach more people. 3. Provide funds for packaging and mailing the DVD. 4. Pay for staff time to research venues, contact and schedule events, design marketing materials and promote all of the Grandma Gatewood programs. These goals are so simple and basic that you may think, “So many people will contribute that my support is not needed.” What if everyone thinks that way? Actually, every dollar we receive will not only help us share Grandma Gatewood’s story, but will also help Eden Valley Enterprises continue to tell the stories that others forget. Grandma Gatewood’s story inspires everyone to walk boldly into life. It motivates us to think about how determination at any age is what moves us forward. Emma was one of the first women to prove that we can do and be who we believe we are. She inspires us to ACT on our goals. Her story tells us that we should not be influenced by what others tell us we cannot do, because, as Emma would say, “Can’t never DID anything!” You can do something to help by making a donation to help us hike that final 10 miles. Every dollar will get us closer to our goal of $5000 and contributions of any size are greatly appreciated. Of course, as a not-for-profit corporation, your donation is tax-deductible and you donate on-line with a credit card or download a convenient form to pay by check – just visit us at http://edenvalleyenterprises.org/progdesc/gatewood/donate.htm for complete information. We have some great thank you gifts for your donations right now – including copies of our TRAIL MAGIC DVD! Thru-Hiker ($250+) $________ (receive a free copy of the DVD, TRAIL MAGIC: THE GRANDMA GATEWOOD STORY, and a copy of the e-book, GRANDMA GATEWOOD: OHIO’S LEGENDARY HIKER) Section Hiker ($100 +) $________ (receive a free copy of the DVD of the storytelling program, GRANDMA GATEWOOD: OHIO’S LEGENDARY HIKER, and the companion e-book) Weekender ($50 +) $________ (receive a free copy of the e-book, GRANDMA GATEWOOD: OHIO’S LEGENDARY HIKER) Thank you, again, for your past and continued support. Bette Lou P.S.: Remember, spreading the word about our programs also helps -- and so does hosting a presentation. To bring any of our shows to your group, just send me and e-mail so we can plan your special event! Bette Lou Higgins Artistic Director Eden Valley Enterprises www.edenvalleyenterprises.org

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FREE – All the Way Behind-the-Scenes: Speak the Speech with CPH
by Erica Beimesche via NEohioPAL 19 Sep '16

19 Sep '16

Behind-the-Scenes: Speak the Speech – All the Way Saturday, October 1, 11:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Making a speech can be a daunting task for even the most talented politicians. Though his civil rights speeches rank among the best in American history, Lyndon B. Johnson still grappled with his Texan accent and ability to connect with his audience every time he approached the podium. All the Way<http://www.clevelandplayhouse.com/shows/2016/all-the-way> features a fantastic ensemble of actors who will share the essentials of delivering a great speech. So, whether you are invited to make a toast at the wedding, deliver a report at an upcoming meeting, or speak in front of a large crowd, don’t miss this opportunity to learn from the best. FREE—RSVP required here<http://www.clevelandplayhouse.com/calendar/2016/10/01/speak-the-speech>. Helen Theatre Rehearsal Hall, 5th floor 1901 East 13th Street<https://www.google.com/maps/place/1901+E+13th+St,+Cleveland,+OH+44114/@41.5…> Cleveland, OH 44115<https://www.google.com/maps/place/1901+E+13th+St,+Cleveland,+OH+44114/@41.5…> Go All the Way with the Cleveland Play House production of Robert Schenkkan’s Pulitzer Prize-Winning take on LBJ and the Civil Rights Act—buy tickets for a performance and learn more here<http://www.clevelandplayhouse.com/shows/2016/all-the-way>. Performances run September 17 – October 9, 2016 in the Allen Theatre.

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Artists in Unity: An Exploration in Music, Theater, and Visual Art
by Nici Romo via NEohioPAL 19 Sep '16

19 Sep '16

Dunamis Theater Company Proudly Presents their inaugural show: Artists in Unity: An Exploration of Music, Theater, and Visual Art. November 3-5 and 10-12 at: The Rialto Theater 1000 Kenmore Blvd. Akron, Ohio 44314 Join the new theater movement with this inaugural show as we celebrate Akron artists at Seth Vaill's spectacular The Rialto Theatre. Featuring Paula Vogel's play Hot N' Throbbing directed by Co-Artistic Director Nici Romo with musical guests: November 3-Light of the Loon November 4- Natalie Grace Martin November 5-Josephine Marie with Tracey Thomas Shepard November 10-Church of Starry Wisdom November 11-Bad News Benny and the Night Fevers November 12-Madison Jeannette Visual art from local photographers, painters, and sculptors will be on display for sale. ... Shows times: Doors open at 6:00pm with music at 7:00pm and the play at 8:00pm Stay for both performances! One magical night only $10 suggested donation at the door with a small surcharge for those under 21. Audience is intended for 16 years of age and up or with a guardian. For reservations email: Dunamistheatercompany(a)gmail.com #myakron #creativesummit #akronrevels #DunamisTheaterCompany #TheRialtoTheater #Kenmore #KenmoreKool #ArtistsinUnity

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Borrow Kitchen Stuff for Strongsville Community Theatre?
by Ted L via NEohioPAL 19 Sep '16

19 Sep '16

Strongsville Community Theatre is hoping to find a resource for older kitchen appliances (especially a refrigerator), and a counter and cabinets (Early to late 60's). Any information would be greatly appreciated, thanks!

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Next Please: An Audition Class for Young Actors
by Nici Romo via NEohioPAL 19 Sep '16

19 Sep '16

Join teaching artist Nici Romo from Akron's newest theater company, Dunamis Theater Company, as she teaches an 8 week class for teenagers on auditioning. The class will cover various audition styles including monologue, musical auditions, and reading scenes from the script. At the end of the 8 weeks, students will have a headshot and resume that they can use for auditions in the industry here in Akron and the surrounding areas. This class is a must for teens looking for help with that school audition or are ready to branch out into the community. Class begins October 3 at 6pm to 7pm and runs until November 28 at the center for Akron Center for Art and Music Performance. 118 E.Market St. Akron, Ohio Class fee is $100 per student. Class is intended for students ages 14-18 Please register at Dunamistheatercompany(a)gmail.com

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Fairy Tales from Around the World Workshop
by Nici Romo via NEohioPAL 19 Sep '16

19 Sep '16

Dunamis Theater Company Presents: Fairy Tales from Around the World, A free theater workshop for kids. Join teaching artist Nici Romo from Dunamis Theater Company as she leads a FREE workshop for 2nd to 5th graders at the Kenmore Branch Library on Tuesday November 15 from 5:00pm to 6:30pm Students will explore the wonderment of the fairy tale from various areas of the world through interactive play, story telling, and crafts. Parents will also be delighted by a small performance at the end of the night Register at Dunamistheatercompany(a)gmail.com or with the Kenmore Branch Library 330-745-6126. Workshop is limited to only 15 students. Register today!!

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Auditions: Midwest regional premiere of The Bridges of Madison County
by Martin Friedman via NEohioPAL 19 Sep '16

19 Sep '16

*Lakeland Civic Theatre announces* *Auditions for the Regional premiere of* *The Bridges of Madison County* Music and Lyrics by Jason Robert Brown Book by Marsha Norman Directed by Martin Friedman Sets and Lights by Trad A Burns Musical Direction by Jordan Cooper Costumes by Tesia Benson Sound by Eric Simna *The Play:* *The Bridges of Madison County *Based on the best-selling novel, and developed by the Pulitzer- and Tony Award-winning creative team of Jason Robert Brown (*The Last Five Years*, *Parade*, *Songs for a New World*) and Marsha Norman. Winner of the 2014 Tony Award for Best Score and Orchestrations, this sweeping romance about the roads we travel, the doors we open and the bridges we dare to cross will leave audiences breathless. *Audition Information:* *Auditions will be held on Tuesday and Wednesday, October 4 and 5 from 7:15 to 10pm at Lakeland Community College in Building D. Park in the Faculty/Staff parking lot (gate open after 7pm). Building D is to the left of the Clocktower. Callbacks on Thursday, October 6. * *Please: **One 32 bar cut in the style of the show. A strong command of musical styles and vocal athleticism is greatly needed for this show. * *You need only come to one of the audition dates. YOU DO NOT NEED AN AUDITION TIME. JUST SHOW UP AT 7:30pm AND WE WILL HAVE YOU SING and then READ. We will have a CALLBACK, on Thursday, October 6 at 7:15.* *ALL ROLES ARE COMPENSATED. Sorry, no EQUITY contracts for this show. * *The Roles:* *Francesca: * An Italian war bridge; generous, luminous, and funny, married to a farmer and living in Iowa. Gender: Female Age: 30 to 50. Supprano. *Richard "bud" Johnson: *Francesca's husband. An Iowa farmer, a good guy, diligent and dependable, but always exhausted and irritated. Gender: Male. Age: 30 to 50. Baritone. *Robert Kincaid: *A ruggedly handsome photographer. Gender: Male Age: 35 to 50. Bari-Tenor. *Marian: *Robert's former wife, a musician. Gender: Female Age: 30 to 50. Mezzo *Chiara: *Francesca's sister still living in Italy. Gender: Female Age: 30 to 50. Mezzo *Kids: The daughter is 14 and the son is 16 or so. The vocal range is very mature so I am looking for younger looking later teens and early twenties.* *Michael: *Francesca and Bud's son. Gender: Male. Age: 16 to 16 *Carolyn: *Francesca and Bud's daughter. Gender: Female Age: 14 to 14 *Marge: *Francesca's neighbor. Gender: Female Age: 30 to 60 Vocal range top: C5 Vocal range bottom: G3. Alto *Charlie: *Marge's husband. Gender: Male Age: 40 to 70. Baritone *Ensemble* Townspeople *Production and Rehearsal Dates:* *The Bridges of Madison County **will open on Friday, February 3 and run through February 19, 2017. There will be nine (9) shows; that is three (3) weeks of performances. Rehearsals will begin the beginning of December based upon your schedules.* For more information, please feel free to contact me, Martin Friedman at martinfriedman98(a)gmail.com or at 216/233-5441.

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Altos
by Ann Marie via NEohioPAL 19 Sep '16

19 Sep '16

Love to sing? We need a few more altos to balance our chorus. Join us any Tuesday-No Auditions Legacy Singers is a talented group of singers under the direction of David Wallace. We are accepting new singers on Tuesdays at 7:00pm in Berea. All voice parts are welcome -seats are available in all sections * Tuesday evening rehearsals in Berea (St. Thomas Episcopal 50 E. Bagley Rd. on the campus of B-W/parking in rear) * Online part by part learning tracks available * Come to a rehearsal or call or e-mail to join! For more information: Ann Marie at 440 846 0973 or amilegacy(a)roadrunner.com <mailto:amilegacy@roadrunner.com> * Next Concert, Merry & Bright! is scheduled Friday, December 2nd at 7:30pm in Strongsville Legacy Singers is part of a non-profit organization, Legacy in Education working to provide music and fine arts education opportunities to children and intergenerational community arts opportunities in Northeast Ohio. Enjoy singing in a chorus while supporting a worthy cause!

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EVENT: Industry Night at Playhouse Square
by Kaitlin Rudy via NEohioPAL 19 Sep '16

19 Sep '16

Playhouse Square is extending an open invitation to all theater professionals working in Northeast Ohio to join us for an industry mixer this October, the first of what (we hope!) to be a recurring event. Join us as we celebrate the opening of the national tour of the Tony(r) Award-winning FUN HOME in Cleveland and meet other theater professionals during an exclusive post-show party. A ticket purchase is required, but perks included are: * Discounted ticket to FUN HOME ($30 and $50 tickets available, normally $45 and $55) o Show starts at 6:30 p.m. and is 90 minutes long without intermission. * Admission to a post-show party with your fellow industry professionals * Enjoy complimentary food, fun photo opportunities, a cash bar and an enter-to-win for signed FUN HOME merchandise To learn more about FUN HOME, Industry Night or to purchase, visit: groupmatics.events/industrynight<https://groupmatics.events/#/event/industrynight>

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