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FINAL CASTING FOR “25TH ANNUAL PUTNAM COUNTY SPELLING BEE” AT THEATRE 29
Final casting for the Fall production of Theatre 29s 2010 season, the Tony Award winning musical comedy, “The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee” has been announced by Director Kathryn Ferguson.
The musical, which follows six young spellers through their hopes, dreams and fears over the course of a spelling bee, will take the stage for five weeks beginning August 27th through September 25th.
Helmed by the veteran production team of Director and Musical Director, Kathryn Ferguson, Assistant Directors John Wright and Marty Neider. “The 25 th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee” was written by Rachel Sheinkin, with music and lyrics by William Finn, which garnered two 2005 Tony Awards and became an international sensation.
The show centers around six young people, played by adults, in the throes of puberty, overseen by grown-ups who barely managed to escape childhood themselves, learn that winning isn’t everything and that losing doesn’t necessarily make you a loser. This tuneful, offbeat and at times heartwarming show offers audience members the opportunity (strictly voluntary) to become part of the action as on-stage spellers.
Cast in the role of “Queen Bee”, Rona Lisa Peretti, is Cindy Ross, who is partnered with “word pronouncer” Vice Principal Douglas Panch is Marv Schmelling. Last Year’s Spelling Champion, Chip Tolentino will be portrayed by newcomer Chris Fleischman., who will suffer the pangs of puberty over the course of the show. Flighty home schooled spelling runner-up, Leaf Coneybear, will be played by Kurt Schauppner. Nasally challenged speller, with a magic foot as his secret weapon, William Barfee, is Charles Harvey. Meek little girl lost, Olive Ostrovsky, is played by newcomer Elodie Rain. Budding politico with two fathers, Logainne Schwartzandgrubenierre is Lauren Schmelling. Chronic over-achiever, Marcy Park, will be played by Adrienne Guerrero and understudied by Tinkie Hess. Rounding out the cast, in the role as street smart “Comfort Councelor” Mitch Mahoney is Faraimo Fuifui.
Boasting a well balanced cast of veteran performers, as well as talented newcomers, this show promises to wow audiences with its humor, energy and pathos.
“The 25 th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee” will run weekends beginning August 27th through September 25th, 2010, with performances beginning at 7 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays. There also will be a Thursday performance, at 7 p.m. September 9th and a Sunday matinee, at 2:30 p.m. September 19th.
Tickets are $12 for regular admission, $10 for seniors and military and $8 for children under 12 and students with ID. All tickets sales are available now through the Theatre 29 Web site: www.theatre29.com , or by calling the box office at (760) 361-4151.
Theatre 29 is a tax-exempt, non-profit 501(c)3 organization dedicated to producing quality, family-oriented live arts for the residents of the Morongo Basin. They are located at 73637 Sullivan Road (right around the corner from Barr Lumber) in the City of Twentynine Palms.
THEATRE 29 OPENS SUMMER MUSICAL “THE PAJAMA GAME”
The big summer blockbuster musical “The Pajama Game” has opened at Theatre 29, the Morongo Basin’s premiere live theater venue.
“The Pajama Game” helmed by Gary Daigneault as Artistic Director and Ed Will as Musical Director, with Shelby Art as choreographer, is set for a five-week run through July 31, 2010.
With a cast of 20 energetic and talented performers and a dedicated stage crew of eight, “the Pajama Game” bursts on to the Theatre 29 stage with hit musical songs, exciting dance numbers, pyrotechnics and even some fun special effects.
Written by Richard Bissell with music and lyrics by Richard Adler and Jerry Ross, “The Pajama Game” opened on Broadway in 1954. The movie, starring the original cast along with 50’s icon Doris Day, debuted in 1958. The smash hit musical tells the story of the dangers of workplace romance to hysterical effect.
The Romantic comedy features conditions at the Sleep-Tite pajama factory as sparks fly between new Superintendent Sid Sorokin, played by Cody Joseph of Yucca Valley, and the leader of the union grievance committee, Babe Williams, played by Courtney McElrath of Palm Desert.
The stormy relationship comes to a head when the workers strike for a 7 1/2 cent pay increase, setting of a conflict between management and labor and a battle of the sexes.
Director Daigneault said, “We wanted to go back to heart of Broadway this year, “The Pajama Game” is classic American musical theater at its best. Suitable for the entire family, it is a fun stage romp with a particularly talented cast. Cody and Courtney shine in the lead roles and the ensemble work is first class.”
The show will run Friday and Saturday nights at 7:00 p.m. through July 31 with a 7:00 p.m. performance Thursday, July 15 and a Sunday matinee at 2:30 p.m. on July 25.
Tickets are $12.00 for regular admission, $10.00 for Seniors and Military, and $8.00 for children under 12 and students with ID. Reservations can be made by calling the Theatre 29 Box office at 760-361-4151 or going online to www.theatre29.com .
Theatre 29 is located at 73637 Sullivan Road (right around the corner from Barr Lumber) in the City of Twentynine Palms. The all volunteer community theater is a 501(c)3 tax exempt non-profit organization.
29 Palms Chamber Sponsors Opening Night of “The Pajama Game” at Theatre 29
The Twentynine Palms Chamber of Commerce will be sponsoring the opening night of Theatre 29’s next production, the classic hit Broadway Musical, “The Pajama Game”. Doors open at 6:00pm Friday, July 2nd, for a special social hour featuring hors d’oeuvres and beverages, the curtain will open at 7:00pm.
“The Pajama Game”, based on Richard Bissell’s novel 7 ½ Cents, is a romantic comedy set at a pajama factory in the 1950’s. The novel was turned into a play that debuted on Broadway in 1954, as well as a movie that starred America’s beloved Doris Day in 1958.
The show features a multi-talented cast of some 25 live performers, classic music such as “Hey There”, “7 ½ cents”, and “Once-a-Year-Day”, great choreography, and distinctive costuming. “The Pajama Game” is directed by outgoing Chamber President Gary Daigneault with Musical Direction by Ed Will. Choreography is being created by Twentynine Palms High School graduate and current Fresno State College theatre student Shelby Art.
Tickets for the opening night event only are $25.00. Limited quantities are available, so please contact the Twentynine Palms Chamber of Commerce as soon as possible to reserve your tickets for the opening night gala. All proceeds from opening night benefit the Twentynine Palms Chamber of Commerce. Please contact the Twentynine Palms Chamber of Commerce at (760) 367-3445 to purchase tickets or for more information.
“The Pajama Game” will run five weekends through July 31st with performance Friday and Saturday evenings at 7:00pm. A Thursday show is set for 7:00pm July 15th, and a 2:30 Matinee Sunday, July 25th. Tickets (except for the Opening Night Gala) are $12.00 for regular admission, $10.00 for Seniors and Military and $10.00 for Children under 12 and Students with I.D., the show is suitable for children. For tickets or more information go to the Theatre 29 website at www.theatre29.com or call the Box Office at 760-361-4151.
Auditions at Theatre 29 for “The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee”
Twentynine Palms, Ca: Auditions for the fifth production of Theatre 29’s 2010 season, the new musical comedy, “The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee”, have been scheduled for Monday, July 5th at 7:00pm on the Main Stage at the John Calveri Theater at 73637 Sullivan Road, across from Barr Lumber in Twentynine Palms. This musical comedy, winner of two 2005 Tony awards, the story features six young people in the throes of puberty, overseen by grown-ups who barely managed to escape childhood themselves, learn that winning isn’t everything and that losing doesn’t necessarily make you a loser. It will take the stage for five weeks beginning August 27th through September 25th. Veteran director Kathryn Ferguson will be seeking a cast of nine singer/actors for this fast paced production. The six “child” roles will be played by adults (as originally conceived on Broadway). There are no roles for children under the age of 18. The roles being cast are:
William Barfee- Eb3 - Bb4 (Tenor) Insecure, a little bit of a bully, can only breathe from one nostril and has severe allergies. A finalist in last year’s Bee, he was disqualified for a health-related incident, an event he is all too familiar with.
Olive Ostrovsky- B3 - F#5 (Soprano) Little Girl Lost, result of inattentive parenting. Sweet, Naïve. Her mom’s in an ashram in India. Her dad promises that, this time, he’ll try to make it. Her best friend is the dictionary.
Leaf Coneybear- A2 - G4 (Baritenor) Preferable red head, marches to his own drummer, a bit spacy. As just the second runner-up in his district’s Bee, he really shouldn’t be here. He makes his own clothes.
Marcy Park- B3 - E5 (Soprano/Mezzo-soprano) Chronic over-acheiver, excels at anything she attempts, but finds no joy in the success. She made it all the way to ninth place in Nationals last year. She sleeps three hours a night.
Loggaine Schwartzandgrubenierre- C4 - D5 (Soprano) A very young politico, vocal, opinionated, but craving acceptance. Must be able to do convincing lisp. The youngest of the competitors, her stage fathers would make Mama Rose blush.
Chip Tolentino- C3 - B4 (Tenor) Boy Scout, the “stud” of the bee. Outward confidence masks inward fears. Last year’s Putnam County champ is beginning to learn the ups and downs of puberty.
Mitch Mahoney- E3 - A4 (B4) (Tenor) Preferrably African-American, confident sexy, dangerous but with a good heart. Sings R&B/Gospel attitude songs. Fulfilling his community service, this former felon is now the Bee’s Comfort Counselor, handing out juice boxes and a dose of reality to the losers.
Vice Principal Douglas Panch- Must have deadpan comedic timing. Non-Singing Role, The “incident” of five years ago almost forgotten, this Lake Hemingway-Dos Passos Junior High Vice Principal is now in a better place, thanks to a high-fiber diet and Jungian analysis.
Rona Lisa Peretti-C#4 - Ab5 (Soprano) Strong singer, consummate professional, she is the big “bee”. This former Spelling Bee champ is not only the county’s top realtor, she also runs a highly lucrative e-Bay business, selling sensible pumps at sensible prices.
Please come to audition prepared with either a karaoke tape or professional backing track as accompaniment, (No background vocals, please!) as there will be no live accompaniment available. Dress to move. Be prepared for cold reading, pre-selected sides are available for review on our website: www.theatre29.com, choose the “Auditions” tab and follow the links. Music samples from the production are also available on that page. Also seeking technical support in stagehand and set construction capacities and volunteer “Audience Wrangers” as the show is audience participatory. For more information, contact the director, Kathryn Ferguson via email at theatre29programs@msn.com or call the Box Office at (760) 361-4151.
THEATRE 29 ANNOUNCES CASTING FOR “THE PAJAMA GAME”
Theater 29 and Directors Gary Daigneault and Ed Will, have completed the casting for this years summer blockbuster musical, The Pajama Game”, with book by George Abbot and Richard Bissel, music and lyrics by Richard Adler and Jerry Ross.
Based on the novel 7 1/2 cents by Richard Bissell, “Pajama Game” is set in the 1950s in a pajama factory. The new manager finds himself falling for the union leader, but at the same time finds himself at odds with her as they are in the middle of a labor dispute over a 7 1/2 cent raise.
A classic piece of American theatre, The musical opened on Broadway in 1954, the 1958 movie by the same name starred Doris Day.
Cast as Babe Williams the female lead, the feisty leader of the union grievance committee, is Courtney McElrath, a newcomer to Theatre 29 out of Palm Desert. In the male lead as Sid Sorokin, the attractive and hardworking new Superintendent of the pajama factory, is Cody Joseph, a Theatre 29 veteran and the daytime voice of Z107.7 Radio.
The Part of Mr. Hassler, the strict President of the Sleep-Tite Pajama factory is Ron Bryant, a local school teacher. Gladys, Mr. Hassler’s quick-witted, intelligent and attractive Secretary, is Twentynine Palms native Sabrina Olson, who will be making her last appearance of many at Theatre 29 before she flies off with the U.S. Air Force.
Other Supporting roles are Kent Eckhart, a newcomer to the area as Hines, a comic character with a jealous streak. An efficiency expert “a time study man” he is in love with Gladys. Mabel, Sid’s secretary, is being played by Cindy Daigneault in her second show at Theatre 29. Prez, the President of the union at the factory who chases women even though he is married, will be portrayed by veteran actor James Hodgson. The pajama salesman Max will be played in a gender switch by Cathy Inscore. Mae, a factory worker and member of the grievance committee, is Lisa Goldberg of Palm Desert. Arwen Jordan-Zimmerman of Joshua Tree is Brenda, another factory worker. Adrienne Guerrero, also from Yucca Valley plays Poopsie. Babe’s agreeable and kind father, Pops, is played by Joshua Tree radio personality Les Taylor.
A strong ensemble highlights the “Pajama game”, Aaron Fagan, of Poughkeepsie, New York, is Joe, April Brady plays Mara, Summer Mark is Virginia, Brad Holt of Landers is Charlie, Cyrus Short as numerous factory workers, Judy Andreshak, Candice Hescock, Kim Weider, and Robin Wanless round out the accomplished cast.
“The Pajama Game” will open July 2nd and run five weekends through July 31st with performances Friday and Saturday nights at 7:00 p.m.. A Thursday show is set for 7:00 p.m. July 15th, and a Saturday matinee at 2:30 p.m. July 25th.
Theatre 29 is located at 73637 Sullivan Road in Twentynine Palms (right around the corner from Barr Lumber).
Tickets are $12,00 for regular admission, $10.00 for Seniors and Military, and $8.00 for children uder 12 and students with ID.
The opening night gala, with tickets at $25.00, is being sponsored as a fund-raiser by the Twentynine Palms Chamber of Commerce.
To make reservations, call the Theatre 29 Box Office at 760-361-4151 or go online to: .
Theatre 29 is a non-profit, all-volunteer, Community Theater organization with an IRS 501(c)3 tax exempt status.
THEATRE 29 ACCEPTING SUBMISSIONS FOR 2011 SEASON
Theatre 29 is beginning the process of selecting plays, comedies, dramas and musicals, for their 2011 season. Area theatrical directors are being invited to submit suggested plays for consideration.
Directors are reminded that Theatre 29 is dedicated to producing plays that are family-oriented and will attract a general audience. Directors submitting for the 2011 season must submit a script and an estimation of the shows budget, including, at least, estimated royalties and script costs.
Directors can request a particular time slot but are not guaranteed their requested time frame will be available
The Theatre 29 play selection committee will review all requests and submit a recommended 2011 season line-up to the Board of Directors for review. The full Board will review proposed scripts and make the final determination.
Theatre 29 is an all volunteer Non-Profit Community theater that operates as an independent 501(c)3 tax exempt organization. All Directors, Performers, backstage crew and theatre staff are unpaid volunteers. Musicals are allowed a stipend budget for musicians.
Theatre 29 will present seven productions (Including their traditional Halloween Haunt event) during the 2011 calendar year. Each play will run 12 performances over a 5 week run. Each play will have a Thursday performance the third week and a matinee the fourth week. Matinees will be on Saturdays or Sundays at the discretion of the director. The schedule allows for a minimum 7 week rehearsal cycle. All shows are produced at the John Calveri Theater at 73637 Sullivan Road in the City of Twentynine Palms.
The tentative 2011 schedule is:
Show 1 - January 14 - February 12
Show 2 - March 11 - April 9
Show 3 - May 6 - June 4
Show 4 - July 1-July 30
Show 5 - August 26 - September 24
(Halloween Haunt) October 14-31
Show 6 - November 18 - December 17
Directors are asked to submit their requests to:
Theatre 29 Play Selection Committee
c/o Gary Daigneault
6448 Hallee Road #5
Joshua Tree, Ca. 92252
The deadline for submissions is June 30, 2011. Directors can review their responsibilities on the Directors page at www.theatre29.com . For further information call Theatre 29 Board President Gary Daigneault at 760-366-8471.
DIRECTORS OF AESOP’S (OH SO SLIGHTLY UPDATED) FABLES HAVING FUN WITH YOUNG CAST
The Theatre 29 Production of “Aesop’s (Oh So Slightly) Updated Fables” by Kim Esop Wylie, with an added introduction by Rob Wanless, is running for the next five weeks through June 5th at the Twentynine Palms community theater. Truly a family production, it is not only a great show for children, it is also very entertaining for adults.
Perhaps it’s they’re love of teaching that attracts directors Rob and Betty Wanless to working on shows with newcomers to the theatre experience. With a relatively young cast, the average age of the 27 cast members being 17, there is plenty of new talent.
The rehearsals themselves have been a joy, Rob Wanless saying, “We've had to stop the rehearsals two or three times now as the child actors do their parts so well that we fall out of our chairs laughing.”
Praising his cast, Wanless added, “We have Supergirl as an understudy and her name is Amy Fangmeyer. It’s her first time on stage and she has stepped in for almost every part.”
He explained what drew him to want to do the show, “I grew up with Aesop’s fables. When Betty showed me this script, I was surprised at how much fun it was to read, and fun is, I believe, the point of teaching with stories. A good storyteller draws the audience in with the story and they audience doesn't realize that they are learning something. This play has many silly vaudeville like jokes and skits, with running gags but still tells the original wisdom of Aesop. I recommend that this audience just try to enjoy and if you learn something, great, if not, just enjoy the show.”
Co-Director Betty Wanless said her involvement is so much more enjoyable because of the involvement of her own family. She explains, “It’s a literally a mom and pop show with actual family and extended theater family. Rob and I have been married for over 23 years and have three grown children. Our son Michael is playing the lion in the show. Plus we’re really amazed at how much Robin, our assistant director and daughter, has learned from volunteering at Theatre 29. She manages to use my organizational skills and her dad’s people skills to surpass both of us in working on the production. Additionally, we have the Tuli brothers, Coughlin and Jiminez sisters and the Wright family working in the production. From last season, some of our theater family from The Best Christmas Pageant Ever have returned to work with us. It’s terrific seeing how they have grown and their talent has matured.”
Betty Wanless especially enjoys her husbands hi jinks, “My favorite part of rehearsals is watching Rob interact with the cast. He has a way of teaching and showing them what he wants and making it fun. For example, we were trying to train the newer actors to project their voice when they’re on stage. At first he asked everyone (even the parents just watching) to say, “What?!” and project it to the back of the theatre. Now he follows it up with something completely ridiculous: “From now on, everyone has to wear their underwear on the outside of their pants.” or “Everyone needs to shave their head bald” To which the response is, “What?!” Sometimes I think they get softer just to hear him yell out something funny so they can yell “What?!”
Aesop’s Oh So Slightly Update Fables will run Friday and Saturday nights at 7:00 pm through June 5th. One Thursday show will be May 20th at 7:00pm and a Saturday Matinee at 2:30 pm on May 29.
Teachers, this is a great show for a field trip. It’s easily worked into a reading lesson plan with fables. It also has audience interaction which makes it great even for some of the more restless students. Contact Paulette Highfill at 760-361-4151 about arranging for groups of 10 or more.
Regular admission is $12.00, Seniors and Military are $10.00 and children under 12 and Students with ID are $8.00.
Reservations can be made by calling the Theater 29 Box Office at 760-361-4151 or on-line at www.theatre29.com .
Theatre 29 is an all volunteer non-profit tax exempt 501(c)3 organization that operates in facilities provided “For the public good” by the City of Twentynine Palms.
KIDS SPONSOR CLASSIC “AESOP’S FABLES” WITH A NEW TWIST
The Boys & Girls Club of the Hi Desert announced today they will be hosting the opening night of Theatre 29’s latest Production “Aesop’s (Oh So Slightly Updated) Fables” with a special reception event.
The opening night gala is set for Friday, May 7th, with the reception at 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM with loads of great food and refreshments served. Curtain time is 7:00 PM.
This updated classic children-friendly comedy consists of seven vignettes of Aesop's most famous Fables, woven into a show that is full of surprises. Classic fables such as The Dog & The Bone, The Fox & The Grapes, The Hare & Tortoise and others and have been updated to refer to American pop culture. These tales all have morals but are full of comic undertones which will delight kids and adults of all ages.
Tickets for the opening night gala only are $25.00 each and are available at Z107.7 Radio studios in Joshua Tree, Windermere Real Estate or Rarick & Associates in Yucca Valley, at the Boys & Girls Club or by calling the club at 760-365-5437.
Club Spokeswoman Cynthia Kraemer said, “This fund-raiser is an important part of the on-going efforts to raise funds to support the programs of the club, located in Yucca Valley but serving kids from all over the basin for over 26 years. The club has seen funding from grants and other partnerships suffer during this economic turndown in the last couple of years and needs the community support to continue providing their valuable service for hundreds of area children.”
Call the Boys and Girls Club at 760-365-KIDS if you would like to donate or buy tickets to this event and talk to Executive Director Kari Grimes.
“Aesop’s (Oh So Slightly Updated) Fables” runs through June 5th at Theatre 29 in Twentynine Palms with performances Friday and Saturday nights at 7:00 pm. A Thursday show will be at 7:00 on May 20th, and a Saturday matinee at 2:30pm May 29th.
For tickets to all the other performances except opening night, call the Theater 29 Box Office at 760-361-4151 or online at www.theatre29.com .
Regular ticket prices are $12.00 General admission, $10.00 for Seniors and Military, and $8.00 for children under 12 and students with ID.
Theater 29 is located at 73637 Sullivan Road (around the corner from Barr Lumber) in the City of Twentynine Palms.
April 8, 2010
THEATRE 29 ANNOUNCES AUDITIONS FOR “THE PAJAMA GAME”
The Theatre 29 summer blockbuster show will be the classic Broadway Musical “The Pajama Game” which originally opened in 1954 with Doris Day in the lead role.
Directors Gary Daigneault and Ed Will will be looking for a cast of some 25-30 performers, of mixed ages and sexes, to fill the lead roles, character parts and chorus numbers.
Open auditions for “The Pajama Game” will be held at 6:00pm, Monday, May 10, 2010, at the Theatre 29 facility at 73637 Sullivan Road (right around the corner from Barr Lumber) in the City of Twentynine Palms.
In the show, the dangers of workplace romance are explored to hysterical effect in this romantic comedy from the creators of “Damn Yankees”. Conditions at the Sleep-Tite Pajama Factory are anything but peaceful as sparks fly between the new superintendent and the leader of the union grievance committee. their stormy relationship comes to a head when the workers strike for a 7 1/2 cent pay increase, setting off not only a conflict between management and labor, but a battle of the sexes as well.
“The Pajama Game” features well-known Broadway songs by Richard Adler and Jerry Ross such as “Hey There”, “Not at all in Love”, “Steam Heat”, “Seven-and-a-half-cents”, and the classic “Hernando’s Hideaway”.
Daigneault is the Artistic Director and Will is the Musical Director, this is their eleventh collaboration over the past ten years. Among the shows they have directed are the smash hits “The Producers”, High School Musical” “Beauty and the Beast”, and “Little Shop of Horrors” at Theatre 29, and “Man of La Mancha” at the Hi-Desert Playhouse.
The production team are: Assistant Director Marty Nieder, Technical Director Diane Durden, Choreographer Shelby Art, Stage Manager Mike Lipsitz, Costumes Charlotte Williams, Lighting design and set construction Butch Pelfrey, and Sound design and set construction by Tom Highfill.
In addition to performers, Theatre 29 is looking for volunteer set painters, carpenters, costuming and backstage assistants. Those interested in behind the stage work should also come to the auditions.
Those auditioning for a part in the show should come prepared to sing a song with a back-up CD (no vocals please) or sheet music for an accompanist, and dressed to move comfortably.
“The Pajama Game” will run from July 2nd through 31st with performances Friday and Saturday evenings at 7:00pm. A Thursday performance is set for July 15th at 7:00pm with a Sunday Matinee July 25th at 2:30pm.
Tickets can be reserved by calling the Theatre Box Office at 760-361-4151 or online at www.theatre29.com .
Tickets are $12.00 for Regular admission, $10.00 for Seniors and Military, and $8.00 for children under 12 and students with ID. The show is appropriate for young children.
For more information about auditions for “The Pajama Game”, call Director Daigneault at 760-366-8471.
Theatre 29 is a non-profit, 501(c)3 tax-exempt, all-volunteer, community theater organization.
MARCH 25, 2010
CASTING ANNOUNCED FOR “AESOP’S (OH SO SLIGHTLY UPDATED) FABLES" AT THEATRE 29
Theatre 29 and Directors Rob and Betty Wanless have announced that casting for the third show of the 2010 season, is complete.
After an incredible showing of talent at auditions on Monday, March 15th the production team painstakingly pared the applicants to 27 cast members ranging in age from 6 years old to “really old”, (as one participant reported on their audition sheet).
“Aesop’s (Oh So Slightly Updated) Fables” show consists of seven short vignettes, very suitable for children, that add a bit of updated and modernized information to the classic Aesop’s Fables to produce an engaging and funny comedy while maintaining the original morals of the stories.
The Introduction to the show, written by director Rob Wanless, consists of a bit of background on Aesop and includes the fable of the Wind and the Sun. The play, “Aesop’s (Oh So Slightly Updated) Fables” written by Kim Esop Wylie contains six classic fables with some audience participation.
The Dog and the Bone sees Mackinley Stewart as the gruff butcher and Nicholas Smith doubles as the dirty scruffy Dog and the fox in a later story.
The Tortoise played by Jessica Lomeli and Hare by Hunter Stepp develops into a love story when the suave Narrator, played by Izrael Tuli, enters the picture.
Cast as the lion is Michael Wanless who towers over little Miss Mouse played by Kayleigh Coughlin. Other cast members in the first half include: Diane Durdin appearing as Narrator Number 1 in several of the stories, Adam Redmon, Natalie Coughlin, Shiloh Wheaton, and Trevor Evans.
In the second half of the show, The Fox and the Grapes has Marissa Thomas as the Grapes in one story. In another story Ed Manson plays the Miller and Noah Gryn his son with Diana Jiminez as their donkey.
The final story is The Country Maid featuring Nena Jiminez as the Maid. Rounding out the stories in various other roles are: Amy Fangmeyer, Hanna Howard, Cathy Inscore, Mytoya Pritchett, Jasmine Smith, Alisah Sparks, Beinn-Mhor Stewart, Enliko Tuli, Vaioleti Tuli, and Taylor Zimarik.
Show dates are May 7 through June 5th, playing weekends every Friday and Saturday at 7:00pm, doors open at 6:30pm. There will be one Thursday performance May 20th at 7:00pm, and one Saturday matinee at 2:30 May 29, doors open at 2:00.
Tickets are $12 for regular admission, $10 for seniors and military and $8 for children under 12 and students with ID. (Ticket prices are not valid for sponsored shows)
Reservations and ticket sales are available now through the Theatre 29 Web site: www.theatre29.com , or by calling the box office at (760) 361-4151.
Theatre 29, a 501(c)3 non-profit, all volunteer Community Theater, is located at 73637 Sullivan Road in the City Twentynine Palms (right around the corner from Barr Lumber on Adobe Road, South of the Highway.
MARCH 12, 2010
WILD MUSICAL SATIRE “WALMARTOPIA” OPENS AT THEATRE 29
The hard-working cast and Crew of “Walmartopia” had the West Coast premiere of the over-the-top musical with an opening night sponsored by the Yucca Valley Rotary Club Friday, March 12. The “campy, caustic and comically irresistible” show will run Friday and Saturday nights at 7:00pm through April 10. A Thursday performance will b held at 7:00pm March 25th and a Sunday matinee at 2:30pm April 4th.
Director Charles Harvey was enthusiastic about the show, which was last seen Off-Broadway in 2007, saying, “”Walmartopia” is a story everyone can relate too. Everyone who works or have worked for a corporation will understand the insanity of it all. While this show highlights the world's biggest retailer, it is a larger indictment on the corporate machine in America. The production is a political satire, it is also a lot of fun. Great music, outrageous characters and, at the heart of it all, a story about the bond of a mother and daughter. It's silly and serious, all wrapped in toe tapping tunes and hilarious social commentary."
“Walmartopia”, written by Catherine Caparello with music and lyrics by Andrew Rohn, both of Madison, Wisconsin, tells the hilarious and timely tale of a single mom who speaks out against her company’s working conditions. Through a fantastic series of events, she finds herself jettisoned to 2037, into a future where Wal-Mart has taken over the world! The musical, peppered with lots of silliness, even features the singing head (head only) of Wal-Mart founder Sam Walton.
Reservations can be made by calling the Theatre 29 box office at 760-361-4151, or online at www.theatre29.com . Tickets are $12.00 for regular admission, $10.00 for seniors and military, and $6.00 for children under 12 ( the show is not recommended for young children) and students with ID.
Theatre 29 is a non-profit, all-volunteer, tax exempt community theater. It is located at 73637 Sullivan Road (right around the corner from Barr Lumber) in the City of Twentynine Palms.
MARCH 1, 2010
YUCCA VALLEY ROTARY SPONSORS OPENING AND WEST COAST PREMIERE OF “WALMARTOPIA” AT THEATRE 29
The Rotary Club of Yucca Valley, will sponsor the Gala opening night and West Coast Premiere of the musical theatrical satire, Walmartopia at Theatre 29 in Twentynine palms, at 7:00pm, Friday March 12.
Walmartopia, Directed by the multi-talented Charles Harvey, tells the hilarious and timely tale of Vicki Latrell, a single mom who speaks out against her company’s working conditions. Yes, the musical features the singing head of Wal-Mart founder Sam Walton.
In 2005, Walmartopia premiered in its home town of Madison, Wisconsin, and went on a sold-out, record-breaking run. The musical wowed audiences and ultimately returned for an encore engagement by popular demand. Critics loved the show. The Wisconsin State Journal raved, “Campy, caustic and comically irresistible;” Madison Magazine dubbed show creators Andrew Rohn and Catherine Capellaro “a hip Rodgers and Hammerstein.”
Walmartopia took to the road for the “2006 New York International Fringe Festival” where it was a sensation, and as a festival favorite the musical was invited back for the 2007 Encore Series. The irreverent send-up of big business and eternal smiley faces was called “genuine Fringe fun” by the “Village Voice”, and "not to be missed" by “NewYorkTheater.com”. Anna Jayne Marquardt in the lead role of Vicky Latrelle received the Outstanding Actor Award from the Fringe Festival.
Now Walmartopia comes directly from its tremendous Off-Broadway success to Twentynine Palms!!
Theatre 29 was the only West Coast Theatrical Organization to secure the rights and will perform the campy, over-the-top, downright silly production for five weekends. Friday and Saturday nights at 7:00pm from March 12 until April 10, 2010. A Thursday show will be offered March 25th at 7:00pm, and a Sunday Matinee April 4, at 2:30pm.
The Yucca Valley Rotary Club will sponsor the opening night only, featuring hors d’ouvres and other refreshments, as a fund-raiser for their many local charity projects. Tickets for the opening night only are $25.00 each and area available at Windermere Realty, Mojave Mortgage, the Yucca Valley Chamber of Commerce, and the Z107.7 Studios in Joshua Tree. For information on the Opening night festivities, call Yucca Valley Rotary President Shannon Luckino at 760-365-0444.
After the opening night, admission tickets to Walmartopia are available for $12.00 for regular admission, $10.00 for Seniors and Military, and $8.00 for children under 12 and students with ID. Reservations can be made at the Theatre 29 Box Office at 760-361-4151, or online at www.theatre29.com .
Theatre 29 is a non-profit, all volunteer community theater organization. The theater is located at 73637 Sullivan Road, right around the corner from Barr Lumber in the City of Twentynine Palms.
FEBRUARY 24, 2010
AUDITIONS ANNOUNCED FOR “AESOP’S OH SO SLIGHTLY UPDATED FABLES”
Twentynine Palms, Ca: Theatre 29 and Directors Rob and Betty Wanless have announced auditions for “Aesop’s Oh So Slightly Updated Fables” by Kim Esop Wylie.
Auditions for the cast and those interested in working backstage as the stage crew will be held on Monday, March 15th at 6:30 p.m. at the John Calveri Theater of Theatre 29 at 73637 Sullivan Road in Twentynine Palms, California.
The Directors encourage all ages of both new and experienced talent to audition. Readings and more information can be found online at Theatre29.com.
In the production, Six of Aesop's most famous fables are woven into a show that is fast paced, sometimes with slapstick, but still with wisdom. Fables including “The dog and the bone”, “The Lion and the Mouse”, “The hare and the tortoise” and other traditional family favorites. Some have been updated to refer to more modern life. These tales all have an important moral but are also full of comic undertones which will delight kids and adults of all ages.
The Wanless’ are looking for performers to be a butcher, some chickens, a donkey, narrators, news reporters, an athletic Hare, a more deliberate tortoise (with mace and a cattle prod) a dog, a pond, a mouse, some grapes (yes, the grapes are or is, a speaking part) a fox, a lounge singer, a girl, more girls, some women and... well, you probably get the idea by now.
Here's the breakdown on the cast needed for the show:
The play has 31 characters, but with doubling may be cast with as little as 12. The directors would like to cast at least 8 actors over the age of 16, 6 actors between the ages of 12 and 14, and 6 actors between the ages of 7 and 12. Although several parts are gender specific, there are plenty of gender neutral roles and we are looking for a good mix of female and male characters in all age groupings.
Show dates are May 7 through June 5th, playing weekends every Friday and Saturday at 7:00pm, with one Thursday 7:00pm performance May 20th, and one Saturday matinee at 2:30 May 29.
To make reservations, call the Theatre 29 box office at 760-361-4151 or order online at www.theatre29.com . Theatre 29 is an IRS tax-exempt 501(c)3 non-profit organization.
FEBRUARY 1, 2010
“WALMARTOPIA” CASTING COMPLETE FOR THEATRE 29 PREMIERE
Twentynine Palms, Ca: Casting for the second production of Theatre 29’s 2010 season, the West Coast premiere of the political satiric musical, “Walmartopia” have been announced. The musical, which lampoons the world’s biggest retailer in hilarious fashion, will take the stage for five weeks beginning March 12th through April 10th. Helmed by the veteran production team of Director, Charles Harvey, Musical Director, Kathryn Ferguson, and Assistant Director Marty Neider, with Choreography by Arwen Jordan-Zimmerman, “Walmartopia” was written by husband and wife creative team of Catherine Caparello and Andrew Rohn. The show centers around Wal-Mart employee, Vicki Latrell, who strives towards a better live for herself and her daughter Maia. But, the chips are stacked against her in the form of notoriously low wages, prejudicial promotional practices, and the machinations of the industrial machine that places profits far above employee welfare. The musical features dancing smileys, a mad scientist, devious executives, a time machine, terrorists from Vermont and, oh yes, the singing head of Sam Walton, Wal-Mart’s founder. Irreverent, smart and funny, with great music, “Walmartopia” is making its West Coast debut on the stage of the John Calveri Theater.
Cast in the role of modern day Norma Rae, Vicki Latrell, is Janeen Duff, with her daughter, Maia, portrayed by Lauren Schmelling. Scheming Wal-Mart CEO, Scott “Scooter” Smiley is Marv Schmelling. The role of Miguel Hernandez, a Wal-Mart janitor with aspiration of forming a union, is newcomer Randy Taylor. Wacky Dr. Normal will be played by Cyrus Short. Counselor James will be played by Jasmine Shaffer. The animated head (head only, mind you!) of Sam Walton will be portrayed by Ben Costello. James Hodgson will play the yes-man Darin and Ken Lindsey will play Mr Pearson. In a variety of roles, the ensemble cast also features Susan Brundage as the voice of the Giant Smiley, Matt Cox, Cindy Daigneault, April DeShazo, Tara Henkel, Arwen Jordan-Zimmerman, Candace Hescock, Ed Manson, Miranda Mondary, Melissa Phelps, Lizzie Schmelling, William Stubblefield, Robin Wanless, Kim Weider, Ester Wingate, Garrett Wright, & John Wright.
“Walmartopia” will run weekends beginning March 12th through April 10th, 2010, with performances beginning at 7 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays. There also will be a Thursday performance, at 7 p.m. March 25th and a Sunday matinee, at 2:30 p.m. April 4th. Tickets are $12 for regular admission, $10 for seniors and military and $8 for children under 12 and students with ID All tickets sales are available now through the Theatre 29 Web site: www.theatre29.com, or by calling the box office at (760) 361-4151. The viewpoints of the performance do not reflect the viewpoints of Theatre 29.
Theatre 29 is a tax-exempt, non-profit 501(c)3 organization dedicated to producing quality, family-oriented live arts for the residents of the Morongo Basin. They are located at 73637 Sullivan Road (right around the corner from Barr Lumber) in the City of Twentynine Palms.
JANUARY 25, 2010
Auditions at Theatre 29 for West Coast Premiere Musical “Walmartopia”
Twentynine Palms, Ca: After a delay due to weather, auditions for the second production of Theatre 29’s 2010 season, the musical satire, “Walmartopia”, have been scheduled for Monday, January 25th at 7:00pm on the Main Stage at the John Calveri Theater at 73637 Sullivan Road, across from Barr Lumber in Twentynine Palms. This hysterical political satire which puts the world’s largest retailer in its crosshairs, will take the stage for five weeks beginning March 12th through April 10th. Veteran director Charles Harvey will be seeking a cast of 20 – 25 adult male and female singers/actors. Most actors will play multiple characters. There are no roles for children under the age of 16.
Please come to audition prepared with either a karaoke tape or professional backing track as accompaniment, (No background vocals, please!) as there will be no live accompaniment available. Dress to move. Be prepared for cold reading, pre-selected sides are available for review on our website: www.theatre29.com, choose the “Auditions” tab and follow the links. Music samples from the production are also available on that page. Also seeking technical support in stagehand and set construction capacities. For more information, contact the director, Charles Harvey via email at theatre29programs@msn.com or call the Box Office at (760) 361-4151.
JANUARY 18, 2010
RAINS CAUSE “WALMARTOPIA” AUDITIONS RESCHEDULE FOR MONDAY, JANUARY 25TH
The winter deluge the Morongo Basin experienced Monday caused the originally announced auditions for the musical, “Walmartopia” at Theatre 29 to be postponed. This satiric revue, making it’s West Coast Premiere at the John Calveri Theater, takes dead aim at the world’s largest retailer in an hysterical romp of musical mayhem, wrapped up in a social commentary. Due to road conditions in both the hi and low deserts due to the storm, director Charles Harvey decided the best course of action was to cancel the audition and reschedule. “We’ve not had a rain like that is a while and, it seemed the better part of valor, to cancel the audition and keep people off the roads until the worst of it subsided.” Harvey said. The audition will happen Monday, January 25th at 7PM at the John Calveri Theater, home to Theatre 29 at 73637 Sullivan Rd in Twentynine Palms. Audition details are on www.theatre29.com.
JANUARY 13, 2010
"BLITHE SPIRIT" OPENS TOMORROW AT THEATER 29
A hard-working case and crew is getting ready for the opening show of the 2010 season at Theatre 29. Blithe Spirit, a classic comedy written by Noel Coward, opens Friday and runs 5 weekends through February 13. Blithe Spirit tells the story of author Charles Condamine, who hires a medium, Madame Arcati, to perform a séance at his home to get material for a new book. What he gets is the spirit of his former wife who settles in to wreak havoc on his life and second marriage. Blithe Spirit is the fifth show directed by Theatre 29 veteran Butch Pelfry, who is assited by technical director Tom "Piney" Highfill. Performances for Blithe Spirit are at 7 pm Fridays and Saturdays, with a 7:00 Thursday night show on January 28 and a 2:30 matinee on Sunday, February 7. Tickets are $12, $10, and $8 and are available by calling the Theatre 29 box office at 760-361-4151 or online at www.theatre29.com.
JANUARY 4, 2010
VOLUNTEERS, SUPPORTERS FETED AT THEATRE 29 APPRECIATION DINNER
It was a gala night of dining and entertainment as Theatre 29 formally thanked its volunteers and supporters Saturday, January 2, 2010, at the Sanctuary of the Joshua Tree Retreat Center.
The annual Volunteer Appreciation Dinner is put on by the Board of Directors of the non-profit community Theater Organization as a way to show their gratitude to the many hard-working people and organizations who have contributed to the overwhelming success of Theatre 29.
Board President and Master of Ceremonies Gary Daigneault handed out certificates of appreciation, introduced musical numbers, and recognized individuals, businesses, and other supporters of the amateur theater program.
A total of 108 individual certificates were given during the evening‚s festivities to those who had appeared in, or helped with, the seven major productions that were presented to appreciative audiences during the theater’s successful 2009 theatrical season.
During the program, live vocal performances were given by Lauren Schmelling, Daniel Tabeling. Charles Harvey, Susan Brundage, and Lizzie Schmelling.
The highlight of the evening was the naming of Kathryn Ferguson of Desert Hot Springs with the Theatre’s prestigious ‘Volunteer of the Year’ award. Ferguson was recognized for her tremendous efforts in costuming four major productions, appearing in two others, serving as the Musical Director for yet another show and directing the show ‘Nunsensations’. All while going through and recovering from knee replacement procedures!
Other special volunteer recognition went to Cheryl Gillon, Thomas ‘Piney’ Highfill, and Charles Harvey for their ‘Above and Beyond’ contributions to the Theatre Organization during the 2009 year.
The Theatre 29 Board also gave special honors at the event for the Publisher of the Hi-Desert Star and Desert Trail Newspapers, Cindy Melland, for their ongoing selfless support of the arts in general and Theatre 29 in particular. Z107.7 President and General Manager Cindy Daigneault was also thanked for their continued broadcast media support.
Thanking the City of Twentynine Palms for their ‘Extraordinary Support’ of the theater program, Daigneault recognized Mayor Steve Flock and Mayor Pro-Tem Jim Harris, who were both in attendance. A special nod went out to City Liaison Larry Bowden.
Longtime retiring board members, Co-Founder Carol Calveri-Mauck, Technical wizard Ken Palmer, and Director/ set builder Butch Pelfrey were also recognized for their many years of service.
Area businesses that have been a big part of supporting the theater in 2009 were given plaques of recognition; Braswell family Senior Care, Hutchins Motor sports, Desert Cycle works, Marshall Networking, Michael DiAntonio and the Joshua Retreat Center.
Daigneault reminded the full house at the event that, “Theatre 29 is not training performers, we are training audiences. When we take a child through a seven week rehearsal cycle, then a five week performance cycle, that child will deeply appreciate the many facets of the art of theatre and will attend theatrical events for the rest of their lives”.
Theatre 29 is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization that operates “In the public good” in facilities at 73637 Sullivan Road leased for $1.00 a year from the City of Twentynine Palms. All of the Board members, Directors, performers and other related artisans are all unpaid volunteers.
For schedules. Season tickets, or other information call the Theater 29 Box office at 760-361-4151 or online at www.theatre29.com
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