- NEohioPAL - lists.neohiopal.org

'The Fugitive's Lesson' at Cesar's Forum Offers Loads of Absurdity and Laughs Settle in and Embrace It’
by Bestic, Patricia 12 Oct '23

12 Oct '23

'The Fugitive's Lesson' at Cesear's Forum Offers Loads of Absurdity and Laughs Settle in and embrace it By Christine Howey <https://www.clevescene.com/author/christine-howey> on Wed, Oct 11, 2023 at 7:02 am <https://posting.clevescene.com/cleveland/Contact/Page?oid=11090480> Some people are scared away from "absurdist" theater because it seems too odd and foreign for their tastes. But anyone who has lived through the past few years of political life in America should be well acquainted with the dynamics of absurdity. Hell, a U.S. President inspired a near-coup upon his own country, abetted by sirens of chaos: The esteemed attorneys Rudy G. and the Kraken woman. That's some fresh and steaming absurdity even Eugene Ionesco would appreciate, since it shows how, in an absurdist world, words lose their meaning, communication goes into the crapper, and logic loses out to irrationality. Now that you're all comfy with the idea of absurdist theater, consider The Fugitive's Lesson, a shuffling-together of two comedic absurdist plays now playing Cesear's Forum at Playhouse Square. Assembled and directed by Greg Cesear, founder of this small gem of a theater (and a man of dazzling and arcane talents), this show abounds in riches that I will attempt to explain. The two plays being shuffled are "The Lesson" by Ionesco and "The Fugitive" by Ugo Betti. Cesear cuts repeatedly from one story to the other as the respective actors stare and grumble while being eased off the stage by the other cast. It begins with a split scene from "The Fugitive" (no, not the Richard Kimble version) in which Daniele (Daniel Telford) is sharing a train seat with a mysterious man in black (no, not Johnny Cash). As Daniele chats with the man, who claims to be a Doctor (Joe Milan), Daniele reveals he has left his wife Nina. The Doctor is very understanding and keeps teasing out new information from him. Then a spotlight comes up on another tableau in which Nina (Leslie Andrews) is playing a card game with her boss Giulio (Gilgamesh Taggett). But there is tension in this "game" and Giulio begins to force himself on Nina until she fights him off. As it turns out, both Nina and Daniele are in flight from each other and from other, larger forces. Then we are whisked off to the other play, "The Lesson," where a Professor (Ron Newell) is instructing a Pupil (Tricia Bestic) on the intricacies of achieving the intellectual status of a PhD. His lessons begin with the simplest arithmetic problems (1+1) and then evolve into nonsensical translations and such. Eventually the Pupil develops a toothache that attacks her whole body and then, well, things get much worse. Hey, I said it was absurdist, right? But the pleasures come in the performances by the actors named above, along with a Maid/Corinna (Tina D. Stump) who weaves her way through both pieces as an oddly supportive but also threatening presence. As for the train passengers, Telford develops an interesting arc for Daniele's angst while it becomes clear that Milan has another nihilist agenda in mind. As for Nina and her supervisor, Andrews and Taggett display plenty of sexual tension and latent aggression with just a turn of a card. The most amusing pairing is in "The Lesson" as Bestic does her best Shirley MacLaine as the perky Pupil, eager to learn until she realizes it's all nonsense. And Newell manages to steal both shows as the Professor, losing himself in his own faux erudition but never misplacing his elfin delight in his dreadful secret plan which is only revealed at the end. But his Maid knows what he Prof is up to, and Stump blends a foreboding mein with a nurturing soul as she attends to his ghastly needs. She also appears in the other play, a cross-play connection that his echoed when Nina and the Pupil also share a tender final moment. The Fugitive's Lesson has plenty of laughs, once you relax into the format and let it carry you along. And it carries the heft you seek from an absurdist work. But unlike the real-life absurdist drama in the imminent 2024 Presidential election year, you can attend this remarkable show without putting your life and future at stake. The Fugitive's Lesson Through October 28 at Cesear's Forum, Kennedy's Down Under in Playhouse Square, 1501 Euclid Ave., cesearsforum.com<http://cesearsforum.com/>, 216-241-6000<tel:216-241-6000>. https://tickets.playhousesquare.org/online/default.asp?doWork::WScontent::l….

1 0

Practice 101
by Amos Fayette 12 Oct '23

12 Oct '23

The Bowed String Shop LLC is proud to share that on October 14 at 10am they will be hosting a talk by Shop Representative and published author Amos Fayette, sharing his book Practice 101: Work Smarter, Not Harder. Copies of the book will be available for purchase. RSVP to info(a)bowedstringshop.com as space is limited. We hope to see you there!

1 0

Stage Frights: The Spooky Comedy Play debuts FRIDAY THE THIRTEENTH!
by Imposters Theater 11 Oct '23

11 Oct '23

OUR THEATER IS HAUNTED! Stage Frights, the original Halloween comedy play, tells the story of House Manager Hank. With the assistance of a clairvoyant, Hank helps the troubled spirits of Imposters Theater finally rest in peace. Get tickets on imposterstheater.com <https://imposterstheater.us17.list-manage.com/track/click?u=2b317370dae2166…>, and help us pack the house for Imposters Theater's first full-length theatrical play. *Showtimes:* - Friday, October 13th @ 9 pm - Saturday, October 14th @ 9 pm - Friday, October 20th @ 9 pm - Saturday, October 21st @ 9 pm - Monday, October 30th @ 8 pm *Starring* Cole Galloway, Amy Schwabauer, Sarah Jane Demetruk, Patrick D. Warner, Vivian Jane Lilly, Neil Conroy, Jon Sauline, and Tyler Coventry *Written by* Ryan Santa, Amy Schwabauer, Cam Godfrey, and Gregory James *Directed by *Ryan Santa with Assistant Director Tom Kondilas More this week at Imposters Theater: Improv Game Night <https://imposterstheater.us17.list-manage.com/track/click?u=2b317370dae2166…>, What Are We Doing? The Improv Game Show <https://imposterstheater.us17.list-manage.com/track/click?u=2b317370dae2166…>, Longform Lab with TJR (Indie Improv Night) <https://imposterstheater.us17.list-manage.com/track/click?u=2b317370dae2166…> All events take place at 4828 Lorain Avenue in the Detroit-Shoreway neighborhood of Cleveland, near Ohio City. Visit our website for more info. Full Schedule <https://www.imposterstheater.com/schedule> | Classes and Workshops <https://www.imposterstheater.com/classes>| Join Our Newsletter <https://imposterstheater.us17.list-manage.com/track/click?u=2b317370dae2166…>

1 0

Heights Youth Theatre Presents Disney's Beauty and the Beast - Opens Thursday, October 12, 7 PM
by Pamela Fine 11 Oct '23

11 Oct '23

*HEIGHTS YOUTH THEATRE * presents *DISNEY'S BEAUTY AND THE BEAST* directed by kelly monaghan music directed by stacy bolton stage managed by Zach Nicol costume designed by Colleen Bloom technical direction by Eric Simna *Thursday, October 12, 2 PM* *Friday, October 13, 7 PMSaturday, October 14, 2 & 7 PM* *Sunday, October 15, 2 PM* Notre Dame College Regina Auditorium 1857 S. Green Road South Euclid , Ohio 44121 Tickets:can be purchased at the door or by visiting: https://www.heightsyouththeatre.com/tickets *box office opens 45 minutes before the show* For more details visit www.heightsyouththeatre.org Heights Youth Theatre programming is made possible by the generous support of the residents of Cuyahoga County through Cuyahoga Arts and Culture, Char and Chuck Fowler Foundation, Eaton Charitable Fund, the Legacy Village Lyndhurst Community Fund of The Cleveland Foundation, and the Ohio Arts Council

1 0

Snowbelt Symphony Opens Season with Brilliant Baroque
by info＠snowbeltmusical.org 11 Oct '23

11 Oct '23

To open its second full season, the Snowbelt Symphony Orchestra presents “Brilliant Baroque” on Sunday, October 22 at 4:00pm at New Promise Church in Kirtland. The concert of music composed in the first half of the 18th century features violinist Andrew Sords performing Vivaldi’s dramatic and passionate Violin Concerto in E Minor RV 278 in what may be its Ohio premiere, Bach’s Orchestral Suite No. 3 containing the famous “Air On The G String,” and pieces by Handel and William Boyce. The concert will be conducted by Snowbelt Musical Arts Association founder and music director Greg Hillis. The Snowbelt Symphony Orchestra is a new 33-player fully-professional orchestra bringing high quality live classical music performances to Lake and Geauga counties. Tickets are $30 for adults, $25 for seniors, and $8 for students. Tickets can be purchased online at www.snowbeltmusical.org <http://www.snowbeltmusical.org> . New Promise Church is located at 8671 Euclid Chardon Rd (Rt 6) in Kirtland. Greg Hillis Executive Director Snowbelt Musical Arts Association www.snowbeltmusical.org <http://www.snowbeltmusical.org> 440-296-9610

1 0

Costumer Needed
by Tim Anderson 11 Oct '23

11 Oct '23

The Broadview Heights Spotlights is in need of a costumer for its upcoming production of *She Loves Me *(a musical *s*et in 1930's Hungary). Volunteers are available to assist, but someone is needed to coordinate the overall design. The show opens on November 3. There is a small stipend available. Interested persons should contact Tim Anderson at education(a)broadview-heights-spotlights.org with questions/availability.

1 0

Auditions Oct 22/23 for "The Three Musketeers" by Ken Ludwig | 8+m, 4+w
by Chagrin Valley Little Theatre 11 Oct '23

11 Oct '23

*THE THREE MUSKETEERS* by Ken Ludwig Directed by Don Bernardo Commissioned by the world famous Bristol Old Vic, it tells the story of a brother and sister, d’Artagnan and Sabine, who sets off for Paris in search of adventure. D’Artagnan hopes to join the valiant King’s Musketeers. Sabine, meanwhile, is being sent to a convent school, but decides quickly that it’s not for her. She’d rather fight by her brother’s side. Cardinal Richelieu has different plans for both of them, but with their new best friends, Athos, Porthos and Aramis by their sides, they save the day for king and country. Many great roles for both men and women! *PERFORMANCE DATES AND LOCATION:* January 26 – February 10, 2024, 7:30pm curtain (2pm matinees on Sunday 2/4 and 2/10) Chagrin Valley Little Theatre 40 River Street Chagrin Falls, OH *AUDITION DATES:* Sunday, October 22 and Monday, October 23, 2023 – 7:00pm Auditions will be held at the theatre. *SIGN UPS:* Use the following link to sign up for an audition slot https://www.signupgenius.com/go/508054AAEAA2EA46-44616279-cvlt - No preparation necessary. This will be an “open call” audition with cold readings from the script. - Auditioners will be called up to read sides solo, in pairs or groups until everyone has read sufficiently for the director. - Please be prepared to stay until 9pm, but you may be dismissed by the director earlier. *CHARACTERS:* (All roles are available) MEN (8 with doubling – may cast more): D’Artagnan Athos Porthos Aramis Cardinal Richelieu Rochefort / Stanley King Louis Xiii / D’Artagnan’s Father / Basille / Fouquet / Fache Treville / Duke Of Buckingham Ravanche Raffian Innkeeper Debris WOMEN (4 with doubling – may cast more): Sabine Milady / Old Woman Constance Bonacieux / Adele / Sister At School Queen Anne / D’Artagnan’s Mother / Elise / Mother Superior / Abbess *WHAT TO BRING:* Headshot (if any) Theatrical Resume (if any) List of ALL conflicts during rehearsal period. *REHEARSAL SCHEDULE:* Sunday thru Thursday, 7:30pm to 9:30pm starting Sunday, November 5 until Tech Week. Sunday rehearsals may run from 7pm to 9pm. Chagrin Valley Little Theatre is a community theatre, and there is no compensation for any performers. Email director Don Bernardo <donbernardo(a)sbcglobal.net> at donbernardo(a)sbcglobal.net with any questions. (Please read the audition announcement completely before emailing questions.)

1 0

CPT's "Our Lady of Common Sorrows" Starts next week on Oct. 19th with Tickets Starting at $1 without handling fees!
by Kim Furganson 11 Oct '23

11 Oct '23

Cleveland Public Theatre presents Our Lady of Common Sorrows<https://www.cptonline.org/performances/seasons/2023-2024/our-lady-of-common…> Written and Directed by Jaiie Dayo Aliya October 19 - November 4, 2023 Cleveland Public Theatre (CPT) presents the highly anticipated World Premiere of Our Lady of Common Sorrows by Jaiie Dayo Aliya. The play was a huge hit with audiences when it was presented in CPT's Test Flight 2023<https://www.cptonline.org/test-flight/>, an annual developmental program for writers of all levels. Based on its successful performance during the initial 3-day run in Test Flight last January, Executive Artistic Director Raymond Bobgan felt it was ready for a full run. About the Play Everyone has their idea about how 15-year-old honor student Indigo got pregnant, until the "psychic" customer of her aunt's drug-dealing boyfriend has a vision that she is going to give birth to the next messiah. World Premiere. Featuring: Dar'Jon Bentley, Isaiah Betts, Cristal Christian, Lashawn Little, Royce The Voice Ruffin, Amy Spencer, Kynnedy, Ashley Aquilla. Content Warning: Our Lady of Common Sorrows contains strong language, mentions question of a sexual assault of a minor, suicide and depictions of substance abuse. For details or additional content, please contact the Box Office at 216.631.2727 x501 or by emailing boxoffice(a)cptonline.org<mailto:boxoffice@cptonline.org>. Ticket and Show Information Our Lady of Common Sorrows (October 19 to November 4, 2023) previews October 19 & 20, and press night is Saturday, October 21. The play is performed on Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and one Monday at 7:00pm, and two Sundays at 3:00pm in CPT's intimate James Levin Theatre, located at 6415 Detroit Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44102, in the heart of the Gordon Square Arts District. Sundays are Covid-Conscious performances when patrons are required to wear masks. Click here<https://www.cptonline.org/plan-your-visit/> for all COVID-19 Safety Protocols. Every Ticket is Choose What You Pay<https://www.cptonline.org/uncategorized/cleveland-public-theatre-announces-…> starting at $1 and will be offered online, over the phone, and at the Box Office. Purchase Tickets at www.cptonline.org<http://www.cptonline.org> or call the CPT Box Office at 216.631.2727 ext. 501. Reserve early! CPT never charges any ticket fees, ever. The James Levin Theatre is ADA-compliant featuring a ramped entrance and an all-gender, wheelchair accessible restroom. Special Ongoing Events During the Run Opening Night - Ticket includes free admission to the post-show opening party with appetizers and beverages! Mingle with cast members! Free Bev Friday - Ticket includes FREE post-show beverages! Following every Friday night performance. NEW! Market Mondays <https://www.cptonline.org/performances/seasons/2023-2024/our-lady-of-common…> -Ticket includes admission to pre-show pop-up market spotlighting local visual artists, retailers, entrepreneurs, and more! Beginning one hour prior to every Monday night performance. Our line-up of vendors includes these fabulous businesses Self Remedy<https://www.selfremedy.co/>, All Kreative Prints<https://allkreativeprints.com/>, and artist Lacy Talley, @talleymarxxandco.

1 0

Berko review: MAKE BELIEVE @ Dobama
by Roy Berko 10 Oct '23

10 Oct '23

*•••••••••••••••••••••••••••Capsule judgement: MAKE BELIEVE is play with a compelling premise, especially in this era of multi-dysfunctional families and days and nights of angst. With some careful cutting, and some extra-time spent working with the younger members of the cast, based on comments of reviews of other productions of this script, this may have been an exceptional experience. As is, the production makes for a thought-provoking evening with some lacking staging and writing qualities. To read the entire review go to: https://royberkinfo.blogspot.com/ <https://royberkinfo.blogspot.com/> To read the capsule judgements of the other Cleveland reviewers go to: https://clevelandtheaterreviews.blogspot.com/ <https://clevelandtheaterreviews.blogspot.com/>••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••*

1 0

Press Release - Haunting of Hill House
by orrville players 10 Oct '23

10 Oct '23

Orrville Community Theater will hit the stage just in time for Halloween with 𝓗𝓪𝓾𝓷𝓽𝓲𝓷𝓰 𝓸𝓯 𝓗𝓲𝓵𝓵 𝓗𝓸𝓾𝓼𝓮 on October 20-21, 2023 at 7pm and October 22 at 2:30pm at Orrville High School Auditorium (841 N Ella Street Orrville OH 44667) A chilling and mystifying study in mounting terror. The OCT cast is excited to see you all for this fun show. Tickets are now available on their 𝘄𝗲𝗯𝘀𝗶𝘁𝗲 for $12.00/person with a family 4-pack for $44 and a 3-day individual pass for $33. Online ticket sales end 2 hours prior to show time. Tickets at the 𝗱𝗼𝗼𝗿 will be $15/person. www.orrvillecommunitytheater.org -- Shannan Kurjian OCT Business Manager 330-439-2051 www.orrvillecommunitytheater.org Find us on Facebook & Instagram!

1 0