“I LOVE YOU,YOU’RE PERFECT, NOW CHANGE!” AUDITIONS AT THEATRE 29

Auditions for the second production of Theatre 29’s 2009 season, the musical revue, “I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change!” have been scheduled for Monday, January 19^th at 6:00pm on the Main Stage at the John Calveri Theater at 73637 Sullivan Road, across from Barr Lumber in Twentynine Palms. This hysterical musical about the foibles and delights of relationships, will take the stage for five weeks beginning March 6^th through April 4^th.  Veteran director Charles Harvey will be seeking two women and two men to portray thirty different characters evidenced in the script. The current roles are being sought:

Two Women – Woman #1 age range 18-25, Woman #2 25-45, strong singers, ability to create various characters very helpful.

Two Men – Man #1 age range 18-25, Man #2 25-45, strong singers, ability to create various characters very helpful.

Please come to audition prepared with either a karaoke tape or professional backing track as accompaniment, (No background vocals, please!) 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. 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) 261-4151.

“ INTO THE WOODS JR.”, OPENS AT THEATRE 29 FOR FIVE WEEK RUN

With a cast of 20 and a first-time Director all under the age of 18, the delightful family musical production of “Into the Woods, Jr.” is now running at Theater 29 weekends through February 14.

The show, very suitable for children, is an engaging and funny Stephen Sondheim Musical Comedy that twists familiar fairy tales into a brand new story. When a baker and his wife, played by Jasmine Shaffer and Cameron Kilby, learn they have been cursed with Childlessness by the witch next-door, they embark on quest for the special objects required to break the spell.

Cinderella (Lauren Schmelling, Prince Charming (Troy Conway), Red Riding Hood (Emily Scheckler), and Jack with his Beanstalk (Scott Clinkscales) are just a few of the characters they encounter during their adventures. “Into the Woods Jr.”, is especially adapted for a youthful cast and audience making the musical an enjoyable show for the whole family.

At the ripe old age of 16, this will be the first time directing a show for Shelby Art, a Senior at Twentynine Palms High School. Art has earned her way to the top spot, she has served as assistant director for many shows and in the 2008 season she was the Choreographer for “Grease” and “Camelot”. A valued fixture at Theater 29 since she was eleven, this is her sixth year with the non-profit community theater. She is aided by Assistant Director, Theatre 29 veteran and board member Cindy Ross, and Musical Director Cynthia Enfinger.
Mature for her years, Shelby said, “One of the greatest joys of directing has been working with my peers. Not only are they easy to work with, they are the funniest cast the theatre has ever seen. Their creative minds find ways to play with the scenes and make me laugh, even when I'm at my wit's end.” She continued, “The best part is when they mess up a dance move and their eyes look for me to see if I've noticed- I always do”.

“Into The Woods, Jr” will run weekends through February 14, 2009, with performances beginning at 7 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays. There also will be a Thursday performance, at 7 p.m. January 29 and a Saturday matinee, at 2:30 p.m. February 7th. 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 newly redesigned Theatre 29 Web site: www.theatre29.com , or by calling the box office at 361-4151.

Until “Into the Woods, Jr.”, closes February 14, 2009 season tickets will still be available. 2009 Season Ticket Prices, which include all seven shows including the Halloween Haunt, are priced with General Admission at $68.00, Seniors, Military, and DAN members, $56.00 and Children under 12 and Students (with ID) at $46.00. This is a savings of over 10% off ticket prices at the door!. Season tickets area available now by calling the box office at 361-4151.

Now in it’s tenth year, 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.
 

Casting Complete for “I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change!” at Theatre 29

Twentynine Palms, Ca: Casting for the second production of Theatre 29’s 2009 season, the charmingly whimsical musical revue, “I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change!” was completed at auditions which took place on January 19^th. This hysterical musical about the foibles and delights of relationships, will take the stage for five weeks beginning March 6^th through April 4^th.  Helmed by the veteran production team of Director Charles Harvey, Musical Director Kathryn Ferguson, and Assistant Director Marty Neider, “I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change!” features a cast of seasoned musical theatre veterans. The vocal and character talents of Daniel Tabeling, Adrienne Guerrero, Faraimo Fuifui, Jr, Carri Hannah, Kurt Schauppner and Susan Brundage will portray over thirty different characters in this rollercoaster ride of romance, love, wedlock and life after marriage. It’s the perfect date show!

“I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change!” will run weekends beginning March 6^th, through April 4, 2009, with performances beginning at 7 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays. There also will be a Thursday performance, at 7 p.m. March 19th and a Sunday matinee, at 2:30 p.m. March 29th. 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 newly redesigned Theatre 29 Web site: www.theatre29.com, or by calling the box office at (760) 361-4151. Due to adult themes and situations, this production is not suggested for younger audiences under sixteen.

Now in it’s tenth year, 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.

AUDITIONS FOR “A BAD YEAR FOR TOMATOES” AT THEATRE 29

Theatre 29 and Director Butch Pelfrey have announced open auditions for the third play of the 2009 season, the comedy, “A Bad Year For Tomatoes”, By John Patrick.

The director is looking for a cast of four Females, any age 20-60+, and three Males, any age 20-60+, for the delightful comedy production, suitable for all ages, with no harsh language.

The auditions will be held Sunday March 8, 2009, at 4:00pm at the John Calveri Theater at 73637 Sullivan Road in Twentynine Palms, (around the corner from Barr Lumber). For more information on the auditions or the show, Call Director Pelfrey, at 760-861-2114

In the story, Fed up with the pressures and demands of her acting career, the famous Myra Marlowe leases a house in the tiny New England hamlet of Beaver Haven, and settles down to write her autobiography.

She is successful in turning aside the offers pressed on her by her long-time agent, but dealing with her nosy, omnipresent neighbors is a different matter. In an attempt to shoo them away, and gain some privacy, Myra invents a mad, homicidal sister--who is kept locked in an upstairs room, but who occasionally escapes long enough to scare off uninvited visitors.

The ruse works well, at first, but complications result when the local handyman develops an affection for "Sister Sadie" (really Myra in a fright wig) and some of the more officious ladies decide it is their Christian duty to save the poor demented Sadie's soul. In desperation Myra announces that her imaginary sibling has suddenly gone off to Boston--which brings on the sheriff, and the suspicion of murder!

Needless to say, all is straightened out in the end, but the uproarious doings will keep audiences laughing right up to the final curtain, and then some.

“A Bad Year for Tomatoes” runs Friday and Saturday evenings at 7:00pm from April 24 through May 23, 2009 A Thursday performance is scheduled for 7:00pm May 7, and a Saturday matinee May 16.

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 online at www.theatre29.com .
 

.“I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change!” a Hit at Theatre 29

Twentynine Palms, Ca: Revues of Theatre 29’s second production of 2009 season, the charmingly whimsical musical revue, “I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change!” have been unanimous and enthusiastic. This show is a winner! The hysterical musical about the foibles and delights of relationships, is currently running at the John Calveri Theater through April 4th.  Helmed by the veteran production team of Director Charles Harvey, Musical Director Kathryn Ferguson, and Assistant Director Marty Neider, “I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change!” features a cast of seasoned musical theatre veterans. The vocal and character talents of Daniel Tabeling, Adrienne Guerrero, Faraimo Fuifui, Jr, Carri Hannah, Kurt Schauppner and Susan Brundage portray over thirty different characters in this rollercoaster ride of romance, love, wedlock and life after marriage. Billed as the perfect date show, thrilled audiences have been enthusiastic in their praise of the production and the quality performances showcased.

“I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change!” will run weekends through April 4, 2009, with performances beginning at 7 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays. There also will be a Thursday performance, at 7 p.m. March 19th and a Sunday matinee, at 2:30 p.m. March 29th. 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 newly redesigned Theatre 29 Web site: www.theatre29.com, or by calling the box office at (760) 361-4151. Due to adult themes and situations, this production is not suggested for younger audiences under sixteen.

Now in it’s tenth year, 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.

CAST ANNOUNCED FOR “ A BAD YEAR FOR TOMATOES” AT THEATRE 29

Theatre 29 and Director Butch Pelfrey have announced cast selection for the third play of the 2009 season, the hilarious, high-energy comedy, “A Bad Year For Tomatoes”, By John Patrick.

Cast in the part of movie starlet Myra Marlow is Theatre 29 veteran Valerie Hodgson, seen in last seasons hit play “Rumors”. The part of Myra’s manager Tom Lamont will be played by Greg Crabill, last seen as “Lenny” in the Theater 29 production of “Rumors”. The three neighbor hood “Hospitality Ladies” are; Cora Gump portrayed by Theatre 29 veteran Cheryl Gillon; Reba Harper played by Judy Andreshak and Willa May Wilcox played by Theatre 29 newcomer Wendy Costello.
The part of the local wood cutter, manure salesman, and hog killer will be played by Tom Highfill. This will be Tom’s first appearance on stage. He is a theater 29 veteran as technical director and sound designer for many plays at the theatre. The part of the sheriff will be played by Theatre 29 veteran Ron Bryant.

In the story, Fed up with the pressures and demands of her acting career, the famous Myra Marlowe leases a house in the tiny New England hamlet of Beaver Haven, and settles down to write her autobiography.

She is successful in turning aside the offers pressed on her by her long-time agent, but dealing with her nosy, omnipresent neighbors is a different matter. In an attempt to shoo them away, and gain some privacy, Myra invents a mad, homicidal sister--who is kept locked in an upstairs room, but who occasionally escapes long enough to scare off uninvited visitors.

The ruse works well, at first, but complications result when the local handyman develops an affection for "Sister Sadie" (really Myra in a fright wig) and some of the more officious ladies decide it is their Christian duty to save the poor demented Sadie's soul. In desperation Myra announces that her imaginary sibling has suddenly gone off to Boston--which brings on the sheriff, and the suspicion of murder!

Needless to say, all is straightened out in the end, but the uproarious doings will keep audiences laughing right up to the final curtain, and then some.

“A Bad Year for Tomatoes” runs Friday and Saturday evenings at 7:00pm from April 24 through May 23, 2009 A Thursday performance is scheduled for 7:00pm May 7, and a Saturday matinee May 16.

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 online at www.theatre29.com .
 

THEATRE 29 CAST AND CREW SHOW UNIQUE MILITARY RELATIONSHIP

When the curtain opens on “Bad Year for Tomatoes” at Theatre 29 on April 24, the cast and crew will represent the unique relationship between the civilian and military communities in the City of Twentynine Palms.

The hilarious comedy, by John Patrick, tells the very funny misfortunes of a famous television actress who seeks to “get away from it all” in a small New England town. The nosy neighbors of Beaver Haven make her attempt to relax and write her autobiography a laugh riot!

This will be the third comedy in as many years directed by Butch Pelfrey, a Senior Instructor at the Marine Corps Communications and Electronics School aboard the nearby sprawling 29 Palms Marine Corps Base. Pelfrey has developed a well-deserved reputation for comedic timing and fast paced energy that has made his last two efforts among the most popular and successful comedies produced by the local theater.

Pelfrey’s Assistant Director, Janet Peercy, who has worked on past shows on the stage and backstage, is also the Assistant Director of Marine Corps Community Services on the base.

The theater organization itself is an all volunteer non-profit 501 (c) 3 organization run by a civilian board of Directors in a facility provided “for the public good” by the City of Twentynine palms. For this show the participation by local military is especially evident.

The character of "Tom Lameont", is played by Navy Commander, Doctor Greg Crabill, of the Robert Bush Naval Hospital aboard the base. "Myra Marlow" is portrayed by Marine Corps Major Valerie Hodgson. "Cora Gump" is played by Marine Base Deputy Protocol officer and retired Marine Master Gunnery Sergeant Cheryl Gillon and "George Washington Piney", trapper of skunks, killer of hogs and seller of manure, is played by Retired Marine Master Sergeant Tom Highfill.

In addition to the active and retired military in the show, the rest of the cast demonstrates the wide variety of people who are active at the popular and successful Community Theater.

Also in the cast are: "Reba Harper" is played by Judy Andreshak, an administrator at Joshua Tree National Park headquarters. "Willa Mae Wilcox" is played by FEDEX driver Wendy Costello, who has, as she said, "escaped the entertainment industry of Hollywood to live in God's backyard, Landers". "The Sheriff" is played by Oasis Elementary school teacher Ron Bryant.

Even the backstage crew shows the close relationship between the Marine base and those residents “In Town”. Both Sound Designer Tom Highfill and Lighting Designer Ken Palmer are retired Marines who work with Pelfrey on the base.

The Sound and light operation will be performed by Tara Henkel. This will be her first time ever doing lights and/or sound! Henkel says, “Gotta start somewhere!”

Pelfrey says his rehearsals are going very well, “The cast is doing a great job with their lines and the timing is starting to develop”. He says the Costumes were developed and designed by the cast, adding, “Over the top might describe the neighbor ladies”. He describes the show as “Fast paced and funny as hell”.
“Bad Year For Tomatoes” opens Friday, April 24, 2009 and runs five weekends through May23, 2009. Curtain time is 7:00pm on Friday and Saturday evenings. A Thursday night performance will be held at 7:00pm on May 7, with a Saturday matinee May 16 at 2:30 PM.

Reservations can be made by calling the Theatre 29 Box Office at 760-361-4151, Tickets can also be selected and purchased on-line at www.theatre29.com , Theatre 29 pays the cost of the on-line transaction.

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 John Calveri Theater of Theatre is located at 73637 Sullivan Road in the City of Twentynine Palms, right around the corner from Barr Lumber, on Adobe Road South of State Route 62.

For more information on Theatre 29 or “Bad Year for Tomatoes”, call 760-361-4151.
 

THEATRE 29 ANNOUNCES AUDITIONS FOR “THE PRODUCERS”

Theatre 29, Director Gary Daigneault and Musical Director Ed Will, have scheduled Auditions for the hilarious Mel Brooks’ Broadway Musical “The Producers”

Auditions are scheduled for Tuesday, May 26th at 6:00p.m. at the John Calveri Theater of Theatre 29 at 73637 Sullivan Road in Twentynine Palms.

Based on the classic 1960's Mel Brooks film, "The Producers” tells the story of Two Broadway producers who set out to make the worst musical ever, but do it so well it ends up being a hit!

Songs include “Keep it Gay”, “We Can Do It”, “Der Guten Tag Hop-Clop”, and the ever popular, “Springtime for Hitler”.

Director Daigneault said the over-the-top production, “Is guaranteed to offend anyone who wants to be.” The show is not recommended for anyone under 16 without parent’s approval.

A large cast is required with many character parts, comedy cameos, and multi-person roles that would not be required to sing and dance. All roles are open.

Choreographer Daniela Jara will be looking for Show Girls, Chorus members for large production numbers, and characters who can portray elderly women who dance with their walkers.

An ability to handle potentially offensive comic material is essential.

In addition to the chorus, show girls and “character” roles, the following parts are required to show an ability for singing and stage movement :

Max Bialystock
Max Bialystock is one of the two producers referred to in the play's title. As one song points out, Bialystock was once the "King of Broadway." When the story opens, however, he is washed-up, having produced a string of flops so terrible that they regularly do not make it past the first performance.

Leopold Bloom
One of the show's two central characters, Leopold Bloom is a meek accountant, so frightened by Max Bialystock's natural vivacity when they first meet that he is reduced to cowering on the floor, fondling the small blue blanket that he has retained from childhood.

Roger de Bris
De Bris is a pretentious, flamboyantly gay director. His apartment is filled with eccentric show-business people, each a different homosexual stereotype. When Bialystock and Bloom first approach De Bris (pronounced like "debris"), he is wearing a flowing evening gown, which he explains is his costume for the Choreographer's Ball.

Carmen Ghia
Carmen Ghia is Roger De Bris's "commonlaw assistant" and is as openly gay as De Bris is.

Gunter
Gunter is a Nazi assistant to Franz Liebkind, who drops Franz off in front of the theater on the night of the Springtime for Hitler opening.

Hold Me-Touch Me
Hold Me-Touch Me is the most obvious of the little old ladies that Bialystock romances in order to secure backing for his show.

Franz Liebkind
Liebkind is a Nazi who raises pigeons in New York City, in Greenwich Village. He has written a play to lionize his hero, Adolf Hitler. Bialystock and Bloom determine, after reading dozens of plays, that Liebkind's must be the worst play ever; it is certain to fail.

Mister Marks
Leo Bloom's boss at the accounting office where he works, Mr. Marks is described as "a short-tempered, cigar-chomping little tyrant." His petty badgering makes Bloom decide to quit the accounting business and try his hand at being a producer.

Ulla Inga Hansen Bensen Yonsen Tallen-Hallen Svaden-Svanson
Ulla is a voluptuous blonde who shows up at Bialystock and Bloom's office to audition for a part in their new play. She is cast as Eva Braun, Hitler's lover. But they also give her a position as their secretary in order to keep her around.

“The Producers” will run Friday and Saturday evenings at 7:00pm from July 17 through August 15, 2009. A Thursday evening performance is set for 7:00 July 30, and a Sunday matinees at 2:30pm August 9.

The opening night for “The Producers” will be sponsored by the Hi-Desert Medical Center Foundation.

AUDIENCES, REVIEWERS, ARE RAVING ABOUT “A BAD YEAR FOR TOMATOES” AT THEATRE 29
 

“A Bad Year for Tomatoes” continues it’s run at Theatre 29 with a March 7 Thursday Performance this week and a March 16th Saturday Matinee at 2:30.

Directed by the talented Butch Pelfrey, the hilarious comedy tells the story of a famous television actress and her attempts to “get away from it all” in Beaver Haven, a small New England town.

The show has been getting raves from audiences leaving the theater still laughing at the zany mishaps and talking about the outrageous characters in the comedy by John Patrick.

Theater reviewer Tami Roleff of Z107.7 radio raved about the show, saying, “A cast of eccentric characters deliver large helpings of silliness and fun in Theatre 29’s latest production, A Bad Year for Tomatoes. Roleff went on to say, “. Director Butch Pelfrey has done a marvelous job in casting this play as all the actors are outstanding. .... A Bad Year for Tomatoes is an entertaining story whose cast gives a very enjoyable show”.

The show is the third in the Theatre 29 2009 season and is the third successful comedy in as many years for Director Pelfrey. It stars Leading lady Valerie Hodgson as both Myra Marlow and her crazy sister Sadie. The hospitality ladies, Cheryl Gillon as Cora Gump, who likes her drink, and Judy Andreshak as the frumpy and fussy Reba Harper. Their neighbor, the witch Willa Mae Wilcox, played by Wendy Costello, and Tom Highfill is Piney. The cast is rounded out by Greg Crabill as Myra’s manager Tom Lamont, and Ron Bryant as the Sheriff.

Performances are 7 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays through May 23, with a 7 p.m. Thursday night performance May 7 and a 2:30 matinee Saturday, May 7th.

Tickets are $12.00 for Regular admission, $10, for Seniors and Military and $8.00 for Children under 12 and students with ID. Reservations can be made by calling the box office at 760-361-4151 or through the website at www.theatre29.com .
 

THEATRE 29 ACCEPTING SUBMISSIONS FOR 2010 SEASON

Theatre 29 is beginning the process of selecting plays, comedies, dramas and musicals for their 2010 season. Area theatrical directors are being invited to submit suggested plays for consideration. 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 2010 season line-up to the Board of Directors for review, the Board will make the final determination.

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 2010 season must submit a script and an estimation of the shows budget, including, at least, estimated royalties and script costs.

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 six or seven productions during the 2010 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 2010 schedule is:
Show 1 January 15 - February 13
Show 2 March 12 - April 9
Show 3 May 7 - June 5
Show 4 June 25-July 24
Show 5 August 27 - September 25
Show 6 November 26 - December 24

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, 2010. 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.
 

PRODUCTION TEAM NAMED FOR "THE PRODUCERS" AT THEATRE 29

The hard working volunteers at Theater 29 are busy rehearsing for the big summer musical production of Mel Brooks’ "The Producers". Artistic Director Gary Daigneault and Musical Director Ed Will have selected a top-notch production staff to assist with the staging of their version of the smash hit musical comedy "The Producers". Choreographer Daniela Jara of Palm Springs is a new face to Theatre 29. Jara will be assisted by Assistant Choreographer, Shelby Art. The Technical Director is Tom Highfill. The set is designed by the multi-talented Charles Harvey. The spectacular costumes are being designed by Kathryn Ferguson. The Assistant Director is Marty Nieder. Ken Palmer is the lighting designer, with Tom Highfill doing double duty as the sound Designer. Mary Phelps is the Stage Manager for the show. "The Producers" will run Friday and Saturday evenings at 7 pm from July 17 through August 15. A Thursday evening performance is set for 7 pm July 30, and a Sunday matinee at 2:30pm August 9. Tickets for all performances 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 361-4151 or online at: theatre29.com. The show is not recommended for anyone under 16 without parent’s approval.

CAST NAMED FOR "THE PRODUCERS" AT THEATRE 29

What happens when a has-been Broadway producer and an insecure accountant team up to put on what they hope will be the very worst show in the history of Broadway? See for yourself when the hilarious Mel Brooks musical The Producers takes the stage at Theatre 29 for 5 weekends beginning July 17. Director Gary Daigneault and musical director Ed Will have cast a mixture of familiar faces and newcomers. Veterans Charles Harvey, Graham Cooley, Erin Itnyre, Daniel Tabeling, and Kurt Schauppner, and newcomers Aaron Fagan, Cindy Daigneault, along with Will Enfinger will bring audiences to their knees with laughter in this funny, funny play. The Producers will open July 17 with an Opening Night Gala sponsored as a fund-raiser for the Hi-Desert Medical Center Foundation, and run 7 PM Fridays and Saturdays for 5 weeks, with a Thursday night performance July 30 and a 2:30 Sunday matinee August 9. All performances will be in the John Calveri Theater of Theatre 29 at 73637 Sullivan Rd in the 29 Palms. Tickets are $8, $10, and $12. The Producers is not recommended for children because of mature content. Reservations can be made by calling 361-4151 or online at www.theatre29.com.

’PRODUCERS’ GALA TO BENEFIT HOSPITAL FOUNDATION

By Kurt Schauppner - The Desert Trail

Published: Wednesday, June 24, 2009 6:24 PM CDT

TWENTYNINE PALMS — German beers and New York deli favorites will be served when the Hi-Desert Medical Center Foundation plays host at opening night of Theatre 29’s latest production, the Mel Brooks musical, “The Producers.”

The Broadway show, based on the 1968 Brooks film of the same name, tells the story of down-on-his-luck Broadway producer Max Bialystock and would-be producer Leo Bloom, who set out to make more money with a flop than they ever could with a hit.
 

The show they decided to produce is “Springtime For Hitler: A Gay Romp With Adolph and Eva At Berchtesgaden,” penned by a German exile and Hitlerphyle, Franz Liebkind.

The foundation’s opening night gala will begin with New York deli-style appetizers, including reuben, salami and egg salad sandwiches, and German beers at 6 p.m. Friday, July 17 at the John Calveri Theater, 73637 Sullivan Road.

Desserts will be served at intermission.

Tickets are $25 each and may be purchased from any foundation board member or by calling the foundation office at (760) 366-6321.

Proceeds from ticket sales and a drawing will support the foundation which, in turn, supports the medical center and the Martie Avels Nursing Scholarship.

“The Producers,” is being produced under the joint direction of Gary Daigneault and Ed Will, who previously collaborated on Theatre 29 projects ranging from “The Fantastiks,” to “Jekyll and Hyde: The Musical,” as well as the Hi-Desert Playhouse production of “Man of La Mancha.”

They are being assisted by Choreographer Daniela Jara and Assistant Choreographer Shelby Art, Costumer Kathryn Ferguson and Stage Manager Mary Phelps.

“The Producers” stars Charles Harvey, perhaps better known for his work as a director at Theatre 29, as Max, and Theatre 29 mainstay Graham Cooley as Leo along with Theatre 29 veteran Dan Tabeling as flamboyantly gay director Roger DeBris and Theatre 29 newcomer Aaron Fagan as his common-law assistant Carmen Ghia.

After opening night, “The Producers,” will continue at 7 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays until Aug. 15.

There also will be a Thursday performance at 7 p.m. July 30 and a Sunday matinee at 2:30 p.m. Aug. 9.

Post-opening-night tickets are $12 for general admission, $10 for seniors, military with I.D. and DAN members, and $8 for children under 12.

Student rush tickets, $1 each, may be available five minutes before curtain.

Theatre 29 officials note that the show contains adult humor and provacative subject matter and suggest parental guidance.

For ticket information, call the box office at (760) 361-4151 or go online to www.theatre29.com.

 “THE PRODUCERS” OPENING NIGHT AT THEATRE 29 TO BENEFIT HI-DESERT MEDICAL CENTER FOUNDATION

The Hi-Desert Medical Center Foundation will host opening night of Theatre 29’s production of the uproariously funny, irreverent and over-the-top comedy musical, Mel Brooks’ “THE PRODUCERS,” Friday, July 17, at 6 p.m.

The show, directed by Gary Daigneault with musical direction by Ed Will, is based on the Mel Brooks story of a theatrical producer and an accountant who attempt to cheat investors by deliberately producing a flop show on Broadway.

The opening night benefit gala evening includes a New York themed deli buffet and cocktail reception prior to curtain, a raffle and dessert reception at intermission.

Tickets for opening night only are $25 each and benefit the programs and services of Hi-Desert Medical Center. Seating is limited and fills quickly. Tickets may be purchased by calling Eileen Berne, foundation executive director, at 366-6321.
 
After the special opening night even, regular tickets prices are $12.00 for regular admission, $10.00 for Senior and Military, and $8.00 for students with ID. Because of mature subject matter, the show is not recommended for children. Tickets are available y calling the Theater 29 Box Office at 760-361-4151 or online at www.theatre29.com.

“THE PRODUCERS” runs Friday and Saturday nights from July 17 through August 15 with performances at 7:00pm. A Thursday performance is set for 7:00pm July 30th and a Sunday matinees at 2:30pm on August 9.

Theatre 29 is a 501(c)3 non-profit community theatre located at 73637 Sullivan Road, just of Adobe road around the corner from Barr Lumber, in the City of Twentynine Palms.

THEATRE 29 GETS OVER-THE-TOP “THE PRODUCERS” READY

The very hard working volunteers at Theatre 29 are finishing the final touches for the July 17 opening of Mel Brooks’ ”THE PRODUCERS”. Putting on such a huge show on our relatively small stage has been a challenge for a very dedicated cast and crew”, said artistic Director Gary Daigneault”. Ed will is the Musical director for the show, this is the tenth collaboration between Daigneault and Will.

The sets for the over-the-top, irreverant classic musical, designed by Charles Harvey, (who also plays the lead role of Max Bialystock), are a mixed media blend of moving platforms, hi-tech Styrofoam panels, and literally spinning scenery, all made to do double, and even sometimes even triple duty to stage the complex show on the humble local community theater stage. Daigneault said, “Expect some surprises because you never know what, or who, may pop out of a set piece, even semi-animated pigeons!”.

Technical Director Tom Highfill and chief builder Butch Pelfrey worked literally hundreds of hours, sometimes in 100+ heat, to get the multi-faceted production ready for the five week run. They were ably assisted by Mike Zuhlke, Francis Wright, Daigneault and his special painting assistant Quentin Roberts.

Heading the team that is literally choreographing the hit Broadway Musical’s myriad set changes is veteran Stage Manager Mary Phelps with her able crew members Mike Lipsitz, Ed Manson, and Patrick Whalen.

“THE PRODUCERS”, tells the hilarious story, as only Mel Brooks can, of two Broadway producers who set out to produce a Broadway flop so they can abscond with the money they raised to put on the show. The play “Springtime for Hitler” instead is a surprise hit, providing even more comic fodder.

“THE PRODUCERS” opens July 17 and runs Friday and Saturday nights at 7:00pm though August 15. A Thursday show is set for July 30, and a matinee on Sunday, August 9. Theatre 29 is located at 73637 Sullivan Road (right around the corner from Barr Lumber) in the City of Twentynine Palms.

Tickets are $12.00 for regular admission, $10.00 for seniors and military, and $8.00 for students with ID. The show is not recommended for children because of adult themes. (Tickets for opening night only are available from the Hi-Desert Medical Center Foundation as pat of a special fund-raiser.)

Tickets are available by calling the Theatre 29 Box Office at 760-361-4151 or online at www.theatre29.com .

 “Nunsensations!” Auditions at Theatre 29

Twentynine Palms, Ca: Auditions for the fifth production of Theatre 29’s 2009 season, the ecumenical musical, “Nunsensations!” have been scheduled for Monday, July 20^th at 7:00pm on the Main Stage at the John Calveri Theater at 73637 Sullivan Road, across from Barr Lumber in Twentynine Palms. The hysterical musical, the sixth installment in the “Nunsense” series by Dan Goggin, will take the stage for five weeks beginning September 4^th through October 3^rd.  Veteran director Kathy Ferguson will be seeking the following roles:

Mother Superior- Sister Mary Regina – Age Open, No-nonsense sister with a good heart, Sings patter and belting pieces, strong comedic timing

Mistress of Novices – Sister Mary Hubert – Age Open, Mother Superior’s foil, Will go toe to toe with Regina, but knows her place, Strong belter, Strong Comic timing.

Sister Mary Leo – Should be youngest of the troupe (20-30), a bit naïve, struggling to be the world’s first nun ballerina, should be able to dance on pointe, good vocals and comic timing

Sister Robert Anne – Age Open, a street smart, wise cracking nun with a heart of gold, She has bit of a naughty streak, Strong comic timing and solid vocals.

Sister Mary Paul aka Amnesia – Age (20-40), a bit of a ditz, A loveable goof, Strong comic timing and the ability to give the blank stare. Good voice.

Please come to audition prepared with either a karaoke tape or professional backing track as accompaniment, (No background vocals, please!) 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. Also seeking technical support in stagehand and set construction capacities. For more information, contact the director, Kathy Ferguson via email at theatre29programs@msn.com or call the Box Office at (760) 261-4151.

Costumer breathes style into 'The Producers' at Theatre 29

By Kurt Schauppner
The Desert Trail
Published: Wednesday, July 15, 2009 2:58 PM CDT

TWENTYNINE PALMS — Actors and backstage crew members have been working since late May, preparing Theatre 29’s latest production, the Mel Brooks musical, “The Producers,” for its Friday, July 17 gala opening, which will benefit the Hi-Desert Medical Center Foundation.

Further backstage, however, preparations for the Gary Daigneault-directed musical began some three months before that at the home of the show’s costume mistress, Kathryn Ferguson.

The results of the hundreds of hours of work put in by Ferguson and her helpers will be seen in the hundreds of costumes, hats, wigs and other costume pieces which will be on display during the five-weekend run of “The Producers” at the John Calveri Theater, 73637 Sullivan Road.

Ferguson first got involved with Theatre 29 as an actor, taking a role in the Judy Andreshak-directed production of “Clue: The Musical.”

Over the course of many years, she has supplied costumes to productions at all three Morongo Basin theaters, Theatre 29, the Hi-Desert Playhouse and Grove’s Cabin Theatre as well as at theaters in the low desert and in Victorville and Fullerton.

Her costuming work is “becoming more and more well known, which is kind of gratifying,” Ferguson said.

In the midst of a “Producers,” rehearsal, Ferguson — who as an ensemble player inhabits the roles of nun, lesbian lighting designer and little old lady — took some time in between checking costumes for last-minute adjustments, making sure everything looked just right and practicing her own parts in the show to talk about what went into the show’s costumes.

“I think Gary asked me to do costumes over a year ago,” she said. “I think I said yes without a clear idea of how many costumes there were in a show. I think we hit 200 this weekend.”

This, she added, is in addition to 37 hats and all different kids of wigs.

“This is a lot of pieces to pull together,” she said, adding that another dimension to the challenge was making sure all the pieces fit into the time period of the musical, which is set in 1959.

“I have been so fortunate. Over the years two or three people always come together,” she said of help she has received with the often intricate costume work. “This time I’ve had as many as nine ladies at the house on a Sunday. All kinds of people offer to help.”

Sometime, she said, people offer to help but admit they do not know how to sew, which does not prevent Ferguson from accepting their offer.

“I tell them, don’t worry, I can teach you,” she said. “I started sewing on this show three months before auditions. The sheer volume of this is overwhelming at times.”

Ferguson said her goal for any show is to have all the costumes and costume pieces completed two weeks before the show opens.

That, she said, gives her crew time to make last- minute adjustments and also gives cast members time to learn how to work with the costumes and make sometimes multiple costume changes over the course of the show.

Ferguson joked that some cast members need to be taught how to wear clothes the way clothes were worn in the 1950s, learning tricks like pulling up their pants and tucking in their shirts.

“They have to learn how to use their costumes,” she said.

“Yes,” she said when asked if she was happy with the way the costumes turned out.

“I always want more than I can get.”

“The Producers” will open with a gala fundraiser for the Hi-Desert Medical Center on Friday, July 17. It will continue at 7 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays until Aug. 15 at the John Calveri Theater, 73637 Sullivan Road. There will also be a Thursday performance, at 7 p.m. July 30 and a Sunday matinee at 2:30 p.m. Aug. 9. For post-opening ticket information call the Theatre 29 box office at (760) 361-4151 or log on to www.theatre29.com

WE REVIEW THE PLAY "THE PRODUCERS" AT THEATRE 29

Aired on Z107.7 FM 07/23/09

The hilarious, over the top Mel Brooks comedy. "The Producers" opened last weekend for a five week run at Theater 29. Reporter Tami Roleff was in the gala opening night audience and files this review -----
There are not enough superlatives to describe Theatre 29’s latest production, “The Producers”. The audience and I were laughing practically nonstop from the first scene all the way through to the final curtain call. “The Producers” is a musical about two Broadway producers who decide to produce the worst play ever and then take off with their investor’s money when the play closes. The worst play they can find is ‘Springtime for Hitler’, and while each scene of “The Producers” tops the previous one for outrageousness, the scene in which the audience finally sees this tribute to Hitler is easily the highlight of the entire evening.  Directed by Z107.7’s own Gary Daigneault, the play is perfectly cast. Charles Harvey is marvelous as longtime Broadway producer Max Bialystock, and Graham Cooley is wonderful as accountant-turned-producers Leo Bloom. Erin Itnyre shines as Ulla, a Swedish bombshell and the receptionist. Daniel Tabeling is definitely over the top as ‘Springtime for Hitler’s’ director Roger DeBris. Aaron Fagan as Carmen Ghia, DeBris’s common-law "assistant" is unabashedly flamboyant and bring that little extra something. I can’t imagine anyone other than Kurt Schnauppner as Franz Leibkind, the author of ‘Springtime for Hitler’. The aging nymphomaniac little old ladies and there dance routine with their walkers brought the house down. Ed Will is the musical director, and he did a superb job, as did all the actors with their songs. The costumes by Kathy Fergusen were fabulous and rolling sets were outstanding. The entire cast, crew, and directors are to be commended for a wonderful production. “The Producers” plays 7 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays through August 15 with a Thursday performance July 30 and a 2:30 matinee Sunday August 9. Tickets are $8, $10, and $12. Leave your young children at home and political correctness at the door. It is easily the best play I have seen in the last year and a half. Go see it.
 

THEATRE 29, 3 CHAMBERS, PLAN SEASON ANNOUNCEMENT EVENT

Theater 29 will partner with the Yucca Valley, Twentynine Palms, and Joshua Tree Chambers of Commerce to announce their 2010 season. Reporter Tami Roleff says hold the September 3rd date, those in attendance will get the first crack at season tickets -----
Theatre 29 will join forces with the 3 Morongo Basin Chambers of Commerce to unveil its 2010 performance season at a special event September 3, from 5 to 7 pm, at the Joshua Tree Retreat Center. The Yucca Valley, 29 Palms, and Joshua Tree Chambers of Commerce will give a brief presentation on their economic development activities as well as give a snapshot of anticipated residential and commercial growth in their areas. Then the directors who have been selected for the 2010 will give a brief description of their shows, complete with musical and dramatic performances. The season announcement will give those in attendance the opportunity to secure season tickets before they are offered to the general public. For more information about the season announcement event, or Theatre 29, call Board President Gary Daigneault at 366-8471.

THEATER 29 OFFERS FREE BONUS TICKET TO SEASON ANNOUNCEMENT ATTENDEES


SSSHHHHH! It’s a secret... but not for long!

The Board of Directors for Theatre 29, the Morongo Basin’s Premiere live theater venue, will be revealing their unique 2010 season September 3, 2009. The gala season announcement event is co-sponsored by the Yucca Valley, Twentynine Palms, and Joshua Tree Chambers of Commerce as a “Tri-Chamber Mixer” at the Joshua Tree Retreat Center from 5:00pm until 7:00pm.

For the 2010 season, Theatre 29, which has developed a reputation for artistic excellence and sound management, has adopted a well-balanced season schedule of six plays, a special weekend Variety show, and their 7th annual “Halloween Haunt”. The 2010 Theatre 29 season will include a classic comedy, two newer musicals, one with a decidedly topical focus, a children’s show, a good old-fashioned 1950’s Broadway Musical, a children’s show, and a timely holiday offering.

Attendees at the Season announcement event will be given an exclusive first opportunity to purchase 2010 Season tickets. Those who buy season tickets at the event will be given a special free bonus, a “companion” ticket to the first show of the season!

Theatre 29 Board President, Gary Daigneault, said, “People are always asking me, “What can I do to support Theatre 29”, the answer is, BUY SEASON TICKETS!!!! Your purchase of season tickets allows us to budget carefully and brings a steady income flow to use for the up-front costs of producing our quality plays and outstanding musicals during the year”.

2010 audiences will enjoy the new improvements for audience comfort at the John Calveri Theater; new carpeting, a new main curtain, state-of-the-art air conditioning and heating, and new ultra-comfortable “floor” seats with lumbar support and ergonomically designed padding, replacing the old plastic folding chairs.

Hard-working Theatre 29 volunteers have also just completed a complete remodel of the theater’s “Bridge” area, bringing the sound and lighting controls up to a high level of technological advancement that greatly enhances audience enjoyment of the professional-level productions.

The 2010 season tickets, which include admission to all 6 main productions plus the Variety Show, are $68.00 for regular admission, $56.00 for Seniors and Military, and $46.00 for Children under 12 and students with ID.

Season tickets are a substantial savings for regular Theatre 29-goers, saving up to $16.00 over buying individual tickets. Individual prices are $12.00 for Regular Admission, $10.00 for Seniors and Military and $8.00 for Children under 12 and Students with ID.
If you can not attend the season unveiling event, you can order Season or individual tickets by calling the Theatre 29 Box office at 760-361-4151, or online at www.theatre29.com . Theatre 29 assumes all the credit and debit card fees paid if you order on-line.
Theater 29 season tickets are a great gift for a friend and they make great holiday gifts that show you care all year while supporting the all volunteer non-profit theatre organization. Theatre 29 is an IRS 501(c)3 tax-exempt organization and the cost of season tickets are fully tax deductible.

In addition to the unveiling the Theater 29 2010 season, the Yucca Valley, Twentynine Palms, and Joshua Tree Chambers of Commerce will give a short presentation of their ongoing efforts to support and enhance the local business communities.

Make plans now to join the three area Chambers of Commerce and Theatre 29 Thursday, September 3, from 5:00pm until 7:00pm at the Joshua Tree Retreat Center for this special event. A no-host bar will be offered by the Joshua Tree Chamber and free deli delights will be served. For more information contact Theatre 29 Board President Gary Daigneault at 760-366-8471.
 

Casting Complete for “Nunsensations!” at Theatre 29

Theater 29 and Director Kathryn Ferguson have completed the casting for the fifth production of Theatre 29’s 2009 season, the ecumenical musical revue, “Nunsensations!” The show is being sponsored by San Bernardino County 1st District Supervisor Brad Mitzelfelt.

This hysterical musical featuring the beloved Little Sisters of Hoboken, will take the stage for five weeks beginning September 4th through October 5th. Helmed by the veteran production team of Director & Musical Director Kathryn Ferguson, and Assistant Director Les Taylor, “Nunsensations!” is the seventh show in the highly successful “Nunsense” franchise written by Dan Goggin. This production finds the stage struck nuns performing in Las Vegas, “Sin City”.

The cast is headed by Reverend Mother Mary Regina who is played by Marty Neider, Mistress of Novices Sister Mary Hubert is played by Cynthia Enfinger, Trouble maker Sister Robert Anne is played by Virginia Sulick, Ditzy Sister Mary Paul affectionately known as Amnesia (if you have seen any Nunsense show, you get it) is Susan Brundage. Wannabe nun ballerina Sister Mary Leo is Arwen Jordan-Zimmerman.

County Supervisor Brad Mitzelfelt has shown his support for Theatre 29 by coming forward as the Patron for “Nunsensations”. Theatre 29 Board President Gary Daigneault said, “We are grateful for the financial support from Supervisor Mitzelfelt, it shows he is personally committed to the live arts in his district and demonstrates his efforts to improve the quality of live for his constituents in the City of Twentynine Palms”.

“Nunsensations!” will run weekends beginning September 4th through October 3rd, 2009, with performances beginning at 7 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays. There also will be a Thursday performance, at 7 p.m. September 17th and a Sunday matinee, at 2:30 p.m. September 27th.

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 newly redesigned Theatre 29 Web site: www.theatre29.com , or by calling the Theater 29 Box Office at (760) 361-4151.

Now in it’s tenth year, 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.

MINISTERIAL ASSOCIATION SPONSORS FRIDAY THEATRE 29 OPENING

The 29 Palms Ministerial Association is hosting Opening Night of NUNSENSATIONS at Theatre 29 this Friday September 4. The fun loving Little Sisters of Hoboken star in a brand new adventure. When a parishioner volunteers to donate $10,000 to the sister's school if they perform in a club in Las Vegas. What follows is the most feather-filled, sequin-studded, fan dancing Nunsense show ever! Tickets are $20 and include dessert at intermission. Proceeds benefit the 29 Palms Ministerial Association Emergency Assistance Fund and can be purchased by calling 361-1410. Doors open at 6:30, show at 7:00 p.m.

THEATRE 29 HOLDS AUDITIONS FOR ANNUAL HALLOWEEN HAUNT

Theatre 29 and Directors Francis Wright and Daniel Tabeling will be holding auditions for characters, guides, and assistants for this years Halloween Haunt. In its "sixth year of fear" Theatre 29’s Halloween haunt has become legendary. The entire theater and grounds are transformed into a lair of undead delights. The annual Halloween Haunt is conceived by special effects master Eric Ross, formerly with Knott’s scary farm. Auditions for the 6th annual Halloween Haunt are Monday and Tuesday, September 7th and 8th at 6:00 p.m. at the John Calveri Theater of Theatre 29, 73637 Sullivan Road (right around the corner from Barr Lumber), in Twentynine Palms. The Directors are looking for adults young and old, (some limited children’s parts). Talent should be prepared to move and be vocal. Rehearsals will run through October 15th with the "haunting" scheduled for weekends beginning October 16. Anyone interested in helping to build and paint the sets, costumes, and specialty pieces for the "haunt" should come to the auditions.

 

THEATRE 29 ANNOUNCES 2010 THEATRICAL SEASON


At a special season announcement event supported by the three Morongo Basin Chambers of Commerce celebrating their eleventh season, the Board of Directors of Theatre 29 unveiled their long-awaited 2010 season schedule. The special event, held September 3, at the beautiful Joshua Tree Retreat Center, (Formerly Mentalphysics) was well attended in the beautiful “Water Terrace Room”.

A short presentation was made on their community activities by the Yucca Valley, Twentynine Palms, and Joshua Tree Chambers. Attendees were brought up to date on a new DVD project featuring the many things to do and see in the Morongo Basin. The DVD, a collaborative effort by the combined Chambers of Commerce, is soon to be distributed throughout the state.

After the chamber presentations, Emcee and Theatre 29 Board President Gary Daigneault introduced each of the directors for the seven theatrical productions planned for 2010. Each Director introduced and gave a synopsis of their selected production to a graphic display. After the season line-up was unveiled season tickets were offered for sale. Those who purchased season tickets were give a free “companion ticket” to the first show of the 2010 year. Season tickets can now be purchased by calling the theater 29 Box Office at 766-361-4151.


The 2010 season and Directors were announced as:



Show 1 - “Blithe Spirit” - Directed by Butch Pelfrey
 
Successful author Charles Condomine hires medium Madame Arkati to come to his home and perform a séance during a party in the hope that he can get material for his new book. Unfortunately for Charles, the medium ends up summoning the ghost of his glamorous first wife Elvira who is out to seek revenge on Charles. She attempts and succeeds in disrupting his second marriage and wreaks havoc on his life. Charles desperately seeks to rid himself of this inconvenient problem. But will he succeed before Elvira gets the best of him? Noel Coward at his finest, witty and intelligent theater.

 
January 15 - February 13
Thursday, January 28
Sunday Matinee, February 7

Show 2 - “Walmartopia” - Directed by Charles Harvey

WEST COAST PREMIERE!.....From the humble heartland of Madison Wisconsin, the habitat of the big box store, comes the "campy, caustic, and comically irresistible" musical Walmartopia making it’s West Coast Debut at Theatre 29. Walmartopia tells the hilarious and timely tale of Vicki Latrell, a single mom who speaks out against her company’s working conditions. She finds herself jettisoned to 2037, into a future where Wal-Mart dominates the entire world. Yes, the musical features the singing head of Wal-Mart founder Sam Walton.
 

March 12 - April 10
Thursday, March 25
Sunday Matinee, April 4

Show 3 - “Aesop’s OH SO SLIGHTLY UPDATED Fables” - Directed by Rob and Betty Wanless
 
Six of Aesop's most famous fables are woven into a show that is full of surprises. Storied fables such as the dog and the bone, the fox and the grapes, the hare and the tortoise, and others, have been updated to refer to American pop culture. These tales all have morals but are also full of comic undertones which will delight kids and adults of all ages.
 

May 7 - June 5
Thursday, May 20
Saturday Matinee, May 29

Show 4 - “The Pajama Game” - Directed by Gary Daigneault and Ed Will

The dangers of a 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 new superintendent Sid Sorokin and Babe Williams, leader of the union grievance committee. Their stormy relationship comes to a head when the workers strike for a 7½-cent pay increase, setting off not only a conflict between management and labor, but a battle of the sexes as well.
 

July 2 - July 31
Thursday, July 15
Sunday Matinee, July 25

Show 5 - “The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee” - Directed by Kathy Ferguson

INLAND EMPIRE PREMIERE! 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. 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. In the Wall Street Journal, SPELLING BEE was called, “perfect in every possible way – that rarity of rarities, a super-smart musical that is also a bona fide crowd-pleaser”.
 

August 27 - September 25
Thursday, September 9
Sunday Matinee, September 19

Show 6 - “7th Annual Halloween Haunt” - Produced and conceived by Eric Ross and Directed by Daniel Tabeling and Francis Wright

In its seventh year of fear, the Theatre 29 Halloween Haunt has become legendary in its ever shifting mood and its ability to terrify. The entire theatre and its grounds are transformed into a lair of undead delights, have you got the nerve to face its demonic presence? Entry to the event is a free bonus for season ticket holders! $5.00 for regular single admission.
October 21 22, 23- October 28, 29, 30, 31

Show 7 - “The First Christmas” - Directed by Patty Tabeling and Paulette Highfill.

Don't miss this musical version of the Christmas story as you’ve never seen it before, through the imagination of a young girl. Discover the true spirit of Christmas through the stories of Mary and Joseph, Elizabeth and Zacharias, and a pair of shepherds named Sharif and Omar.
 

November 19 - December 18
Thursday, December 2
Saturday Matinee, December 11

Season Tickets for all six theatrical productions and the special Halloween event are now on sale at $68.00 for regular admission, $56.00 for Seniors, Military, and DAN Members, and $46.00 for Children under 12 and students with ID. To purchase season tickets call the Theatre 29 Box Office at 760-361-4151 and leave a message with an address to send a 2010 order form or call Theatre 29 President Gary Daigneault at 760-366-8471.

Individually, the price of regular admission tickets are $12.00, Senior and Military $10.00 and Children under 12 and Students with ID are $8.00. Theatre 29 will pay the fees incurred by those buying tickets on line at www.theatre29.com .

Founded in 1999, Theatre 29 is an all volunteer non-profit 501(c)3 non-profit Community Theater Organization. Productions are performed at the John Calveri Theater, 73637 Sullivan Road, Twentynine Palms.

REVIEW OF THE MUSICAL "NUNSENSATIONS" AT THEATRE 29

KCDZ-FM NEWS of 9/10/09 - Reporter Tami Roleff

The delightful musical "Nunsensations" is playing weekends through October 3rd at Theater 29. Reporter Tami Roleff was in the audience last weekend and offers this theatrical review...

In Theatre 29’s latest production, the Little Sisters of Hoboken take their show, Nunsensations, on the road to Las Vegas. Kathryn Ferguson, assisted by Z107.7’s Les Taylor, does a fine job of directing this cast of veteran Theatre 29 actors. Be prepared for lots of audience participation in this Holy Roller version of vaudeville. Marty Neider is the grandmotherly Reverend Mother Sister Mary Regina. Cynthia Enfinger plays her second in command, Sister Mary Hubert, who leads the cast in a hilarious take-off of the Village People’s YMCA. Virginia Sulick shines as Sister Robert Ann who sings the show’s 11:00 song. Susan Brundage steals the show and is delightfully nunsensical as the ditzy Sister Mary Paul, aka Amnesia, and is equally wonderful as the voice of the puppet Sister Mary Annette. Arwen Jordan-Zimmerman, as the ballerina nun Sister Mary Leo, belts out her songs and is a talented dancer who floats across the stage. Ferguson also designed the costumes and you’ll laugh out loud at nuns in showgirl costumes. Ed Will, Marv Schmelling, and Dennis McDade are outstanding as the band behind the sisters. Nunsensations is entertaining, comical, and family friendly. Catch it at 7 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays through October 3 with a Thursday show September 17 and a 2:30 matinee on Sunday, September 27. Tickets are $12, $10, and $8. For reservations, call 361-4151 or visit the website at theatre29.com.

Theatre 29 to hold Auditions for "The Dinosaur Musical"

Theatre 29 and Director Les Taylor are looking for actors, singers and dancers who want to "release their inner lizard" for the upcoming musical "The Dinosaur Musical" at Theatre 29, the last show of this season.

In this off-beat, child-friendly musical, first produced in 2006, There are 13 speaking parts and 7-8 non-speaking roles available for kids ages 10 and over including several teenage roles. Some Adults from 30-60 are also needed.
Auditions will be held Monday and Tuesday, September 21st and 22nd at 7:00 p.m. at the John Calveri Theater of Theatre 29, 73637 Sullivan Road in the City of Twentynine Palms.

“The Dinosaur Musical” tells the story of how dinosaurs facing extinction must learn to live together or perish. Along the way there’s intrigue, adventure, a volcano ready to erupt and the invention of spaghetti!
Come prepared to sing, move and read for parts in "The Dinosaur Musical" Bring sheet music or CD for singing, no karoake please. Accompaniment will be available.

“The Dinosaur Musical” Will run Friday and Saturday nights at 7:00 p.m. from November 20th through December 19th. A Thursday Performance will be held at 7:00 p.m. on December 3rd and a Sunday Matinee is scheduled for 2:30 p.m. December 13th.

Tickets are $12.00 for Regular Admission, $10.00 for Seniors and Military and $8.00 for children under 12 and students with ID. To make reservations call the Theatre 29 box Office at 760-361-4151 or online at www.theatre29.com .
 

“NUNSENSATIONS” MAKE LITTLE SISTERS OF HOBOKEN COME TO LIFE


The Fun loving Little Sisters of Hoboken are being brought to life in a new fresh way in the production of the musical Nunsensations, currently playing at Theatre 29 in Twentynine Palms.
Director Kathryn Ferguson said, “Nunsense musicals have a great fun core of music and comedy that works time after time, author Dan Goggin has written numerous Nunsense musicals that all stand the test of time for every audience, light hearted, participatory fun, friendly”.
In this latest chapter, the sisters star in a brand new adventure, when a parishioner volunteers to donate $10,000.00 to the sister’s school if they will perform at a Las Vegas lounge. What follows is the most feather-filled, sequin-studded, fan-dancing nunsense show ever!
The rehearsal and production cycle have bonded the five singer-actresses, Marty Neider, Virginia Sulick, Aren Jordan-Zimmerman, Cynthia Enfinger, and Susan Brundage.
Ferguson remarked on the unique relationship, “This cast has done a wonderful job of becoming sisters, laughing and enjoying each other throughout the rehearsal process and bringing that love and friendship to the stage to make our Sisters of Hoboken come to life as though they had been together many, many years at the convent: working, playing and praying together for each other and all of their parishioners. This wonderful show gives our audiences a chance to sit down and laugh and play with the sisters every Friday and Saturday night for 2 more weekends. Please come and play”!
Tickets for Nunsensations are $12.00 for Regular admission, $10.00 for Seniors and Military, and $8.00 for children and students with ID. Nunsensations is child-friendly. Reservations can be made on-line at www.theatre29.com or by calling the Theater 29 box office at 760-361-4151. 2010 Season tickets are now available.
 

Theatre 29’s “The Haunted Mansion - The 6th Year of Fear” opens October 16


Theatre 29 and Producer Eric Ross are proud to announce the opening of Theatre 29's 6th Annual Halloween Haunt: “The Haunted Mansion - The Sixth Year of Fear”.

This years incarnation will be under the expert (and somewhat twisted) direction of Theatre 29 veteran and favorite Daniel Tabeling and technical wizard Frances Wright.

Special effects guru Eric Ross, formerly of "Knott's Scary Farm" will oversee the production with his own imaginative touches and over-the-top imagery.

In this sixth year special holiday production, the Theatre 29 Halloween Haunt has become a Morongo Basin legend. The entire theater and grounds are transformed into a lair guaranteed to terrify. See if you have the nerve to face the undead delights!. This year's guests are guided through a labyrinth of special effects, ghosts, goblins, and more than a few very scary surprises.

Tickets are only available at the door for $5 “cash only”. Season ticket holders get their first tour included with their purchase. The Halloween Haunt will run three weekends from October 16-17, 23-45, 29, 30 & 31, 2009; Tours on Friday and Saturday nights from 6­10 pm, Thursday nights from 6­9 pm with tours beginning every 10­15 minutes.

Theatre 29's John Calveri Theatre is located at 73637 Sullivan Rd Twentynine Palms ( arounbd the corner from Barr Lumber in Twentynine Palms). Visit www.theatre29.com for more information.

Cast Selected for Theatre 29’s “Haunted Mansion”


Theatre 29, Directors Daniel Tabeling and Frances Wright, and producer Eric Ross have announced the casting for the sixth annual production of Theatre 29’s Halloween Haunt production, “The Haunted Mansion”

This year’s Haunt will lead it’s visitors into the home of Master Ravenscroft, a world traveler and avid collector of all things, and people macabre. This year will once again be a guided tour through the Mansion and outlying cemetery that the theatre grounds will be transformed into.

The Haunted Mansion will run October 23 & 24, and 29-31, 2009 at Theatre 29, 73637 Sullivan Road in the City of Twentynine Palms (around the corner from Barr Lumber).

The roles of the tour guides will be played with horrifying intensity by: Fabianna Borghese, Tara Henkel, Candace Hescock, James Hodgson, Cathy Inscore, Drea Jensen, Cyrus Short, and Robin Wanless.

Rounding out the rest of the inhabitants of the Ravenscroft Mansion are: Matt Black, Scott Buckley, Xavier Candelaria, Wyvonne Davis, Rachel DeHoedt, Roxie Green, Stephanie Hale, Christopher Harris, Stephanie Hart, Brandon Hazel, Connie Henderson, John Henkel, Maria Lourdes, Shyane Minor, Brandy Smith, Rebecca Smith, William Stubblefield, Kristina Thomas, Marissa Thomas, Vincent Thomas, Christina West, Garrett Wright, John Wright, Natasha Wright, Sapphire Wright and Taylor Zimarik.

Do you have the nerve to face the inner catacombs of Ravenscroft’s mansion? If so tickets will be available only at the door for $5.00 with tours launching every 10-15 minutes. Season ticket holders get their first tour included with their purchase.

Thursday performances will run 6:00pm - 9:00PM, Friday and Saturday performances 6:00pm - 10:00pm. For further information contact the Theatre 29 Box Office at (760) 361-4151.
 

Theatre 29 announces the cast of “The Dinosaur Musical”

 Theatre 29 and director Les Taylor have announced the cast of “The Dinosaur Musical” the delightful family-friendly musical which marks the last show of the 2009 season.

The Musical, with music by Robert Reale and lyrics by Willie Reale, is set at the end of the Cretaceous period. A giant meteor collides with the earth and wreaks havoc with the ecosystem. In order to avoid extinction, the dinosaurs sign a peace pact called the treaty of meat. When the king of the Tyranosaureses suddenly dies, his none-to-clever 13 year old son rises to power, and the trouble begins. Thrown in some borscht belt comedy, and erupting volcano and the invention of spaghetti and you’ve got something for everybody!

The cast of “the Dinosaur Musical” is a mix of newcomers and familiar faces at the popular Twentynine Palms Community Theater. 

REGINALD VAN CLEEF­ dashing and debonair leader of the resistance is Raphael Fritschrudser (FRITSCH-RUDE-SIR), A marine from 29 palms and a Theatre 29 newcomer.
 
ELEANOR VAN CLEEF­Reginald’s 13 year old daughter, is Emily Bell, another Theatre 29 newcomer
 
Theatre 29 veteran Susan Brundage plays CARLOTTA DE VRIES, a somewhat washed-up lounge singer and Reginald’s romantic interest.
 
MINDY DE VRIES­Carlotta’s 13 year old daughter, is Lauren Schmelling
 
John Wright portrays KING MARCUS, wise leader of the T-REXES
 
Playing PRINCE QUINCY is Theatre 29 favorite James Hodgson
 
MRS. GAPP and MR. GLUT, Prince Quincy’s evil advisors, are Catherine Inscore and Marv Schmelling.
 
Alex Gomez will play ARMONDO COMACHO, the dinosaur’s equivalent to an Air Force.
 
SWIFTY LEVINE (LA-VEEN), owner of the Volcano Café, clandestine headquarters of the resistance, is Les Taylor.
 
The dark and mysterious freedom fighter GENEVIEVE will be played by Arwen Jordan-Zimmerman.
 
Lovable, zany MAMA LUCREDZIA (LOU-CREHD-ZEE-AH) brought to life by Brianna Caskey, new to the Theatre 29 stage.
 
The dinosaur tracker GERTRUDE is Lizzie Schmelling.
 
Other assorted dino’s are Scott Clinkscales, Kayleigh Coughlin, Patrick Kennedy, Jessica Lomeli, Jasmine Shaffer, Hunter Stepp and William Stubblefield.
 
“The Dinosaur Musical” opens a five-week run Friday and Saturday nights at 7:00pm from November 20 through December 19, 2009. A Thursday performance will bee held at7:00pm on December 3rd, and a Sunday Matinee at 2:30pm December 13th.

The show will be performed at the John Calveri Theater of Theatre 29, 73637 Sullivan Road (right around the corner from Barr Lumber on Adobe Road) in the City of Twentynine Palms.

Tickets are $12.00 for regular admission, $10.00 for Seniors and military, and $8.00 for children under 12 and students with ID.

2010 season tickets are also available, price includes six regular stage productions and the annual Halloween haunt event. regular season admission is $68.00, $56.00 for Seniors and Military, and $46.00 for children under 12 and students with ID.

To make reservations for “The Dinosaur Musical” or purchase season tickets, call the Theatre 29 Box Office at 760-361-4151. For on-line tickets, season tickets, or information go to www.theatre29.com .

Theatre 29 is a non-profit, 501(c)3 tax exempt organization. For information about the organization, all Board President Gary Daigneault at 760-366-8471.
 

THEATRE 29 SETS AUDITIONS FOR “BLITHE SPIRIT”


Theatre 29 and Director Butch Pelfrey have announced open auditions for the first show of the 2010 season, Noel Coward’s classic comedy, “Blithe Spirit”.

Called, “witty, intelligent theatre”, “Blithe spirit” tells the story of Successful author Charles Condomine who hires a medium “Madame Arkati” to come to his home and perform a séance during a party in the hope that he can get material for his new book. Unfortunately for Charles, the medium ends up summoning the ghost of his glamorous first wife Elvira who is out to seek revenge on Charles. She attempts and succeeds in disrupting his second marriage and wreaks havoc on his life.

This is Director Butch Pelfrey’s fourth production at Theatre 29 where he has earned a well-deserved reputation for understanding the nuances of comedic timing , characterization, and energetic blocking. Pelfrey, a Twentynine Palms resident and retired Marine, is a training instructor at the 29 Palms Marine base’s Communication and Electronics school.
 
Auditions for “Blithe Spirit” will be held at 4:00 p.m. on Sunday, November 22, 2009, at Theatre 29’s John Calveri Theater, 73637 Sullivan Road, in the City of Twentynine Palms.

The following parts will be auditioned:
Edith, 16-20 years
Ruth, 40ish
Charles, 40ish
Dr. Bradman, 40+
Mrs. Bradman, 40+
Madam Arcati, 50+
Elvira, 30ish

Excerpts from the “Blithe Spirit” script will be available to assist those trying out are available on the Theatre 29 web page at www.theatre29.com .

“Blithe Spirit” will open for a five-week run January 15, 2010 and run Friday and Saturday evenings at 7:00 p.m. through February 13. A 7:00 p.m. Thursday performance is set for January 28 and a Sunday matinee at 2:30 p.m. Sunday, February 7.

Tickets for “Blithe Spirit" are $12.00 for Regular Admission, $10.00 for Seniors and Military, and $8.00 for Children under 12 and Students with ID.

Season tickets for the 2010 season, which include all six main stage productions plus admission to the 2010 “Haunted Theater” event are also available. Season tickets are $68.00 for Regular admission, $56.00 for Seniors and Military, and $46.00 for children under 12 and Students with ID.

Tickets for individual shows and season tickets are available on-line at www.theatre29.com or by calling the Theatre 29 Box Office at 760-361-4151.

 

WE REVIEW "THE DINOSAUR MUSICAL" AT THEATRE 29

Reviewer Tami Roleff - Z107.7 FM News

Theatre 29’s latest production, The Dinosaur Musical, is a children’s play that features all kinds of dinosaurs as the main characters. Set 65 million years ago, give or take 12 years and 4 weeks, the story starts when the King of the Tyrannosaurus Rex dinosaurs, played by John Wright, signs the Treaty of Meat to stop the nasty habit of dinosaurs killing each other for food. All is well for 12 years, until the king dies, probably from food poisoning, and his young teenage son, Quincy, played by James Hodgson, takes over the crown. Quincy, who would rather draw pretty flowers than be king, is manipulated by the evil Mr. Glut and Mrs. Gapp, played by Marv Schmelling and Cathy Inscore, into revoking the treaty. The herbivore dinosaurs, led by Raphael Fritschrudser as Reginald van Cleef, form an underground resistance movement. The freedom fighters are played by some of the theater’s finest veteran actors, who provide the most enjoyable moments in the show. The best of the lot are Z107.7’s own Les Taylor, who also directs, as Swifty; and Susan Brundage as the lounge singer Carlotta. Alex Gomez as Armando is terrific and great fun to watch. It’s hard to believe that Jessica Lomeli, who plays Mama Ludcrezia, the inventor of spaghetti, is only a senior at 29 Palms High School. The costumes by Kathryn Ferguson are cute, with not a Barney to be seen among them. The sets at Theatre 29 tend to be fairly spartan, which makes the sets of The Dinosaur Musical the most elaborate and pretty that Theatre 29 has produced. The Dinosaur Musical plays 7 pm Fridays and Saturdays through December 19, with a 7:00 Thursday performance December 3rd, and a 2:30 Sunday matinee December 13. Tickets to the family-friendly musical are $12, $10, and $8. To reserve tickets call 760-361-4151 or visit the website at www.theatre29 .com.

THEATER 29 REORGANIZES NEW BOARD OF DIRECTORS

The Board of Directors of Theater 29 held a board reorganization meeting last week. Assignment Reporter Mike Lipsitz says there are some new and familiar faces... At its annual reorganization meeting December 8 the Theatre 29 Board of Directors elected new officers and Board Members for 2010. Re-elected for two-year terms were Judy Andreshak, Gary Daigneault, Virginia Sulick, and Patty Tabeling. Newly elected to serve two year board terms were Frances Wright and Cheryl Gillon. They join sitting Board members Paulette Highfill, Cindy Ross, Brian Tabeling, and Mary Phelps. Kathryn Ferguson of Desert Hot Springs was selected to complete the term of retiring Butch Pelfrey. The Board then unanimously re-elected Gary Daigneault to a ninth consecutive term as President. Paulette Highfill will be Vice-president, Cindy Ross Secretary, and Brian Tabeling, Treasurer. Now entering its eleventh year, the all-volunteer, non-profit Community Theater continues it‘s mission " to bring quality, family-oriented Theater to Twentynine Palms while offering opportunities for (the) community to experience the live arts." For more information about Theatre 29 call Daigneault at 760-366-8471 or the Theatre 29 Box Office at 760-361-4151.

THEATER 29 LOOKING FOR VOLUNTEERS

Reporter Mike Lipsitz - Z107.7 FM News - Sunday, December 13, 2009

You don’t have to be an actor to be involved in community theater. Reporter Mike Lipsitz says there a plenty of roles behind the scenes at Theater 29...
If you ever wanted to get involved in community theater or you’re curious about what happens behind the curtain, now is your chance. Theatre 29 seeks volunteers to serve backstage in a variety of technical and support positions. Producing the quality live events presented at Theatre 29 takes the efforts of many volunteers. These are the folks who shine the lights, control the sound, pull the curtain, build the sets, ready the costumes and wigs; they are the stagehands in the wings, and commissioners who make every performance happen. You don’t have to be experienced, just motivated and interested. Volunteers serve as lighting and sound technicians, spotlight operators, set designers, artists, painters, builders, costumers, backstage crew, or front of house staff. If you’re wondering what it might be like to pitch in at the all-volunteer, non-profit Theatre 29, call Gary Daigneault at 760-366-8471 or Brian Tabeling at 760-367-9338.

THEATER 29 ANNOUNCES CASTING FOR "BLITHE SPIRIT"

Reporter Mike Lipsitz - Z107.7 FM News - Thursday, December 10, 2009

Theater 29 has announced the casting for their first show of the 2010 season. Reporter Mike Lipsitz gets out the playbill...

Theatre 29’s season opener, "Blithe Spirit" has been cast. Butch Pelfrey directs this Noel Coward classic about an author who contacts with the spirit of his vengeful first wife at a séance. Once the séance is over, the comedy begins because her glamorous ghost won’t go away. Seasoned New York actress Sue Kelly will play the psychic medium; Greg Crabill will be the author, Charles Comdomine; award winning Rebecca Havely, the dead first wife, and Janet Peercy plays the current wife. A talented supporting cast includes Dennis Priest, Mary Phelps and Melissa Phelps as Edith, the maid. Pelfrey’s assistant Director is Cheryl Gillon and Tom Highfill is technical director. "Blithe Spirit" runs January 15 to February 13. There’s still time to enjoy a significant discount as a 2010 Season subscriber. Order now at theatre29.com or call 760-361-4151.

Auditions at Theatre 29 for West Coast Premiere Musical “Walmartopia”

Twentynine Palms, Ca: Auditions for the second production of Theatre 29’s 2010 season, the musical satire, “Walmartopia”, have been scheduled for Monday, January 18th 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. The current roles are being sought:

Vicki Latrell – Age 35-45, Preferably African-American, strong soul voice, the heroine who tries to make a better life for herself and her daughter.

Maia Latrell – Age 16-20, Preferably African-American, strong soul voice, an idealist in a no nonsense way. Can be headstrong and reactive, but she means well.

Miguel Hernandez – Age Open, needs to be Latino, The Wal-Mart janitor who is a union organizer covertly. Should sing well.

Scooter Smiley – Age 40+ - Wal-Mart’s CEO, Brash, loud, ruthless. Bigger than life. Should sing patter well.

Sam Walton – Age 50+, Wal-Mart’s resurrected founder, larger than life, loud, cowboy type. Requires a good patter singer and great facials, as only Sam’s head is ever seen.

Dr Normal – Age Open – Charismatic evil genius. Should sing patter well and a lot of energy.

Alan – Age 20-30 stereotypic leading man, chiseled features and well built. Should sing well.

Daphne - Age 20-30, Stereotypic leading lady, pretty and well built, Should have good voice.

There are many other speaking and ensemble roles to cast as well.

Please come to audition prepared with either a karaoke tape or professional backing track as accompaniment, (No background vocals, please!) 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. 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) 261-4151.