Review: Virtual seasonal joy with the Bach Society

As it has every Christmas season since 1951, the Bach Society of St. Louis presented its Candlelight Concert last week (Wednesday, December 23rd). It's a local tradition grounded in fine musicianship and intelligent programming and marred only by the fact that it lasts but one night.

This being 2020, though, the concert was presented not for a live crowd in Powell Hall, but for an on-line audience nationwide. Running a little over an hour, the program combined video recordings of Music Director A. Dennis Sparger conducting the full orchestra and chorus at Powell Hall in previous Candlelight Concerts with Mr. Sparger leading a 20-member masked chorus with piano accompaniment at Cathedral of St. Peter in Belleville. It very effectively recalled the warm, seasonal spirit of those memorable live concerts. It also worked pretty well as a stand-alone event, the variable quality of some of the older videos notwithstanding.

The Bach Society at Powell Hall

Highlights from those past concerts included a lovely arrangement by Utah Symphony Chorus Director Barlow Bradford of the traditional British “Sussex Carol” and an infectiously joyous version by Steve Barnett of the traditional “Go Tell It On the Mountain” that had a nice sense of swing. The singers were clearly enjoying themselves—all smiles and hand claps in the final refrain—and soloists Jenny Ubi, Joe Codispoti, and Shawn Neace all brought their own individual styles to their verses. The syncopated rhythms and bracingly astringent harmonies of 20th-centry Welsh composer William Mathias’s arrangement of the old English carol “Sir Christèmas” offered a pleasant contrast to more traditional fare and were performed with impressive precision by the orchestra and chorus.

The most popular aspect of the Candlelight Concerts has always been the procession that always opens the second half. The lights dim, and the members of the Bach Society walk down the aisles singing, each with an electric candle. Those lucky enough to be sitting downstairs in the orchestra section are soon surrounded by singers, enveloping the listener in a constantly changing kaleidoscope of sound. You could never really capture that on video, of course, but the recording included in this year’s concert did bring back pleasant memories of that unique experience.

The newly-recorded segment had a unique charm of its own. Under Mr. Sparger’s sure direction, the small chorus sang with remarkable clarity despite their masks and Sandra Geary provided solid piano accompaniment. As Mr. Sparger noted in remarks during the broadcast, the St. Peter Cathedral was originally chosen for recording because its size made physical distancing easier, but the reverberant acoustics also had the benefit of adding a sense of power to the music. Recording engineer Paul Hennerichs deserves congratulations for getting clear, coherent sound out of what must have been a challenging sonic landscape.

The mix of material for that segment was nicely balanced, combining two traditional carols (“The Carol of the Bells” and “We Wish You a Merry Christmas”) with Bach’s “Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring” (fitted out with new lyrics by the late Leonard Van Camp of SIU-Edwardsville) and the film classic “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas.” That last one is especially poignant in this Year of the Plague, which made traditional holiday gatherings a source of hazard instead of happiness. “Someday soon, we all will be together,” runs the original lyric, “if the fates allow.” We can but hope.

The program concluded on a lighter note with contemporary American composer Craig Courtney’s witty arrangement of “The Twelve Days of Christmas,” in which each verse was orchestrated in the style of a different composer and/or musical era. As a bonus, most of the arrangements also included a nod to the lyrics.

So, for example, the “seven swans a-swimming” uses the “Swan” theme from Saint-Saëns’s “Carnival of the Animals,” the “eleven pipers piping” is set to the “Dance of the Mirlitons” (toy flutes) from Tchaikovsky’s “Nutcracker,” the “eight maids a-milking” become the eight Valkyries from Wagner’s “Die Walküre,” and the “twelve drummers drumming” are setting the beat for Sousa’s “Stars and Stripes Forever.” The program lists only the century and country of inspiration for each verse (e.g., “19th-century France” for Saint-Saëns), leaving it to listeners to fill in the blanks. Judging from the laughter, the audience at the concert where this was recorded had no difficulty doing so.

The Bach Society’s on-line Candlelight Concert was a one-time-only event, and the Society’s calendar for 2021 has yet to be publicly announced, but you can keep in touch with their plans at their web site.

This article originally appeared at 88.1 KDHX, where Chuck Lavazzi is the senior performing arts critic.

St. Louis theatre calendar for the week of December 28, 2020

Now including both on-line and live events during the pandemic. To get your event listed here, send an email to calendar [at] stageleft.org.

Circus Harmony in St. Louis and Circus Circuli in Stuttgart, St. Louis's German sister city, present Sister City Circus, on Circus Harmony’s YouTube page.  "Through a series of online meetings, workshops, and classes the two troupes created 6 different circus acts and then filmed them at iconic architectural locations in each of their cities." For more information, visit the Circus Harmony YouTube page.

A Christmas Carol

The Fabulous Fox Theatre presents the Omaha Community Playhouse production of A Christmas Carol via on-demand video streaming through January 3rd "It just isn't Christmas without A Christmas Carol! Experience the nation's favorite holiday tradition in a reimagined small cast version with eight cast members! Ebenezer Scrooge takes us on a life-changing journey to discover the true meaning of Christmas. Filled with stunning Victorian costumes, festive music and crisp, wintry sets, A Christmas Carol is a beautiful reminder that love and generosity are the heart of the Christmas holiday."  For more information: fabulousfox.com.

First Run Theatre presents an on-demand streaming version of Look Into My Eyes, a new play by Robb Willoughby, through the end of February 2021. The play can be viewed on First Run's YouTube channel as well as on the First Run Facebook page.

Fly North Theatricals presents three new free digital series. Their new digital line up includes The Spotlight Series, the Grown-Up Theatre Kids Podcast, and Gin and the Tonic. The Spotlight Series highlights the Fly North family of students and actors performing songs from previous FNT shows. In the Grown-Up Theatre Kids podcast you can join Colin Healy and Bradley Rohlf every other Friday as they explore life after drama club and what it means to make a living in theatre far from the lights of broadway. Gin and the Tonic is a "reckless unpacking of music history’s weirdest stories hosted by Colin Healy.” The Spotlight Series and Gin and the Tonic are available at the Fly North Theatricals YouTube channel and the Grown-Up Theatre Kids podcast can also be found on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Sticher, other podcast platforms. All three are updated on a bi-weekly (every other week) basis.

The Lemp Mansion Murder Mystery Dinner Theatre presents The Anti-Clause through January 9, 2021. "Ever wanted to be on a TV Christmas Special? Well, hold onto that dream because we’re just pretending. Welcome to the Judy St Judy television talk show! It’s the only daytime show that really gives Jerry Springer a run for his money. All kinds of non-functioning family skeletons will be brought to light tonight but the big news is that Judy St Judy has scored a huge guest for this year's Christmas Special. Spoiler alert, it's Santa Claus! And not everyone is happy to see him. Gee, hope nothing bad happens!" The Lemp Mansion is at 3322 DeMenil Place in south city. For more information: www.lempmansion.com

And in This Corner: Cassius Clay

Metro Theatre Company presents the streaming version of their critically acclaimed 2016 production of And In This Corner: Cassius Clay by Idris Goodwin for online classrooms, homeschools, learning pods, and other educational settings. "And In This Corner: Cassius Clay is the story of the young man who would become Muhammad Ali. From his relationship with a white police officer who introduced him to boxing as a kid in Jim Crow-era Louisville to his gold medal-winning performance in the 1960 Rome Olympics, Cassius holds onto the faith that his potential is unlimited. But it is the friends from his childhood who are becoming Freedom Riders who ultimately challenge him to understand that there is more to life than personal success: he must use his gifts to work for the good of his community." All tickets include a virtual lesson plan connected to Missouri curricular standards, along with additional resources to help address the topics of civil rights, racial equity, and social justice. For more information: www.metroplays.org/virtual-field-trips.

Moonstone Theatre Company presents Moonstone Connections, a series of in-depth interviews with arts leaders by company founder Sharon Hunter. New episodes air the third Tuesday of each month; see linktr.ee/moonstoneconnections for more information.

The Muny presents Attuned: Cast Me at the Muny, a nine-part podcast that "showcases audition tips and funny stories, while offering an inside look at what makes casting a Muny show so challenging." The series is available on demand at the Classic 107.3 web site. For more information: classic1073.org/podcasts

The Muny presents Muny Holiday Magic, a four-part holiday video series features performances by Muny family from across the country, including The Muny Kids and Teens. The videos will be available at the Muny YouTube channel through midnight on December 31st. For more information: https://muny.org/holidaymagic/

The OTSL Holiday Concert

Opera Theatre of St. Louis presents an on-line Holiday Concert through December 31st. "This winter concert will delight the entire family with popular holiday songs, ranging from traditional carols to movie tunes". For more information: opera-stl.org/holiday-concert.

The Repertory Theatre of St. Louis presents Cooking, Carols and Cocktails, a four-episode web series combining cooking classes by local chefs, musical performances, and tours of local restaurants, running through the end of January. "Join us in the kitchens of some of St. Louis’ master chefs as they guide us in creating a delectable seasonal spread. While your meal simmers, enjoy exclusive holiday music performances and a special cocktail taught by a guest mixologist. From appetizer to digestif, each of the four episodes in this series brings the best of St. Louis’ culinary and music scenes into your home for a festive feast." Tickets are available for individual episodes as well as for the full series. For more information: repstl.org.

The Repertory Theatre of St. Louis, in partnership with StoneLion Puppet Theatre, present The Glowy Snowy Day Thursday through Saturday, December 31 - January 2. "Families are invited to drive through the experience on the Webster University campus, just a few hundred feet from The Rep’s main performing home. Listen to an enchanting adaptation of Ezra Jack Keats’ award-winning children’s book The Snowy Day via podcast and immerse yourself in a spectacle of illuminated, colossal puppets, glow artists and more – all without leaving the socially distanced safety of your vehicle." For more information: www.repstl.org.

The Repertory Theatre of St. Louis, in collaboration with Baltimore Center Stage, Long Wharf Theatre, The Public Theater and Woolly Mammoth Theatre Company, present Play at Home, a series of micro-commissioned short plays from some of the American theatre's most exciting and prominent playwrights. These new plays – which all run 10 minutes or less – are available for the public to download, read and perform at home for free at playathome.org.

Adena Varner and family

The Repertory Theatre of St. Louis presents a live video stream of the WiseWrite Digital Play Festival running until the end of the Rep's 2020-2021 season. “Step into the imagination of three young playwrights as The Rep presents professional readings of their new plays.” The production is directed by Adena Varner, the Rep's Director of Learning and Community Engagement. For more information: repstl.org.

The Repertory Theatre of St. Louis presents Love and Kindness in the Time of Quarantine via on-demand video stream through the end of 2020. "The beautiful and uplifting Love and Kindness in the Time of Quarantine offers hope, encouragement and perspective in a time of uncertainty. Through a blend of three songs and six monologues, this heartfelt and compassionate new work, led by The Rep’s playwright-in-residence Regina Taylor, reflects on the search for light in the darkness. Featuring nationally renowned writers Octavio Solis, Connie Congdon, Dustin Chinn and Isaac Gomez, as well as local favorites Tonina, Carter Lewis, Mariah Richardson and Tre’von Griffith." For more information: www.repstl.org

Deal Orlandersmith in
After the Flood

The Repertory Theatre of St. Louis and All Arts present Until the Flood, written and performed by Dael Orlandersmith, via on-demand streaming. "On August 9, 2014, Darren Wilson, a white police officer, shot and killed Michael Brown, an African American teenager in Ferguson, Missouri. The shooting ignited weeks of social unrest, propelled the Black Lives Matter movement and prompted a controversial investigation by the U.S. Department of Justice. Celebrated writer, performer and Pulitzer Prize finalist Dael Orlandersmith traveled to St. Louis and conducted interviews with dozens of people who were grievously shaken by Brown’s shooting and the turbulent aftermath. From these intimate conversations, Orlandersmith created eight unforgettable characters who embody a community struggling to come to terms with the personal damage caused by these events." For more information: allarts.org

R-S Theatrics presents While the Ghostlight Burns, a virtual discussion series featuring R-S Artistic Director Sarah Lynne Holt in conversation with St. Louis theatre artists, Mondays at 7 pm.  Conversations will be archived at the R-S Theatrics YouTube channel. For more information: r-stheatrics.com/while-the-ghostlight-burns.html

The St. Lou Fringe presents Matthew R. Kerna in original eight-minute solo performance adaptation of Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol, remastered for the virtual stage.  For more information: www.stlouisfringe.com/a-christmas-carol

The St Louis Black Repertory Company presents I Remember Harlem via on-demand streaming through December 31st. The show is a re-release of the Company’s virtual gala featuring international and national artists highlighting the brilliant works of African American artists such as Duke Ellington, Ella Fitzgerald, Louis Armstrong and Langston Hughes. For more information: theblackrep.org.

Come Together

The St. Louis Shakespeare Festival presents streaming videos from the SHAKE20 festival, including re-imagined, condensed versions of classic Shakespeare plays and new takes on old favorites like Joe Hanrahan's Come Together, at the Shakespeare Festival Facebook page at www.facebook.com/pg/STLShakesFest/videos

The St. Louis Writers Group streams live recordings of previous play reading sessions at their Facebook page. For more information: facebook.com.

SATE, in collaboration with COCA and Prison Performing Arts, presents Project Verse: Creativity in the Time of Quarantine. Project Verse presents two new plays: Quatrains in Quarantine by e.k. doolin and Dream On, Black Girl: Reflections in Quarantine by Maxine du Maine. The performances are streamed free of charge on SATE’s website and Facebook page. For more information: slightlyoff.org.

Classic Mystery Game

SATE also offers streaming performances of the shows originally scheduled for live 2020 productions: The Mary Shelley Monster Show, As You Like It (produced for SHAKE20, Project Verse, and Classic Mystery Game. The shows are available on their YouTube channel.

Stray Dog Theatre presents Home for the Holidays via on-demand streaming video through December 31st.  The show presents "a variety of talented friends and artists from past productions in a magical evening of song and dance." For more information: www.straydogtheatre.org.
 
Union Avenue Opera offers Sneak Peeks of its 2021 season operas Il barbiere di Siviglia (The Barber of Seville), Les Contes d'Hoffmann (The Tales of Hoffmann) and The Cradle Will Rock on its YouTube channel.

Looking for auditions and other artistic opportunities? Check out the St. Louis Auditions site.

For information on events beyond this week, check out the searchable database at the Regional Arts Commission's Events Calendar.

Would you like to be on the radio? KDHX, 88.1 FM needs theatre reviewers. If you're 18 years or older, knowledgeable in this area, have practical theatre experience (acting, directing, writing, technical design, etc.), have good oral and written communications skills and would like to become one of our volunteer reviewers, send an email describing your experience and interests to chuck at kdhx.org. Please include a sample review of something you've seen recently.

Cabaret review: Christmas and all that jazz with Debby Lennon and the Carolbeth True Trio

Last December local singer/actress/educator Debby Lennon brought a delightful jazz-inflected holiday show to the Blue Strawberry. The revised version she performed at Jim Dolan’s Central West End club on December 12th featured less of her and more of local jazz legend Carolbeth True’s band, but it was still the same “tasty holiday treat” I enjoyed so much last year.

“I’ll Be Home for Christmas (due to COVID-19 Restrictions)” was performed live and via streaming video, which is how I saw it. Unfortunately, technical issues at the club cut off the first four songs of Ms. Lennon's opening five-song set, so this review is based on what transpired after that. In any case, the show was, once again, an excellent showcase for Ms. Lennon’s flawless, clear vocals and for her on-stage persona, which was as effervescent as a glass of seasonal Champagne. She had clearly won the audience over early in the show and from there on it was smooth sailing.

Debby Lennon

With a heavy emphasis on Great American Songbook tunes, her set list was much the same as last year’s, and it was delivered, once again, with a mix of vocal excellence and compelling sincerity.

Her “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” was a touching elegy for her late mother, and “all the people we miss tonight” gave the lyric’s wish that “someday soon we all will be together” added poignancy. A cheerful dash through the witty lyrical underbrush of  Irving Taylor, Dudley Brooks, and Hal Stanley’s “(Everybody’s Waitin’ for) the Man With the Bag” (first charted by Kay Starr back in 1950) was more fun than a barrel of elves, as was her take on the manic version of "Jingle Bells" Jack Gold and Marty Paich created for Barbara Streisand's 1967 "A Christmas Album.” And her “Santa Baby” was nicely lubricious but with more of a sense of swing than Eartha Kitt’s legendary 1953 original. Credit Ms. True for that, along with the tight contemporary jazz sound of the whole evening.

In fact, the evening was as much a showcase for pianist/arranger Carolbeth True and her band as it was for Ms. Lennon. They had two great solo sets, the first of which combined an upbeat and bluesy take on “God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen” with a Latin-flavored version of “It Came Upon a Midnight Clear.” That level of innovation and creativity could be heard in their longer second set of seasonal tunes towards the end of the evening, which included stylish solos by Glenn Smith on bass and David True on percussion in a celebratory “Feliz Navidad.”

Their work got an enthusiastic reception from both the audience and Ms. Lennon when she took the stage afterwards. “That was fabulous,” she declared joyfully. “I hope it feels as good out there as it does to be up here with these marvelous musicians.” Judging by the applause, I’d say that was a safe bet.

The Debby Lennon/Carolbeth True Christmas show took place at Jim Dolan’s Blue Strawberry Showroom and Lounge, where a mix of jazz, pop, and soul acts continue into the new year. The club is operating under a "COVID careful" arrangement with restricted indoor capacity and other precautions. Many of the shows are also available via live streaming video. Check the web site for details.

This article originally appeared at 88.1 KDHX, where Chuck Lavazzi is the senior performing arts critic.

St. Louis theatre calendar for the week of December 21, 2020

Now including both on-line and live events during the pandemic. To get your event listed here, send an email to calendar [at] stageleft.org.

The St Louis Black Repertory Company presents The 12 Days of Christmas, a series of videos released at noon each day through Christmas. The videos feature dance, music, and storytelling performed by a roster of artist-friends of The Black Rep. The virtual celebration will conclude on Saturday, December 26, with I Remember Harlem, in a re-release of the Company’s virtual gala featuring international and national artists highlighting the brilliant works of African American artists such as Duke Ellington, Ella Fitzgerald, Louis Armstrong and Langston Hughes. I Remember Harlem will remain available through the end of the year. For more information: theblackrep.org.

Katie McGrath

The Blue Strawberry presents an Katie McGrath in Garth and Friends in Low Places on Saturday, December 26, at 8  pm via live video stream only (no in-person performance).  "Katie McGrath became a country music fan in 1990 when the release of Garth Brooks' album, No Fences, coincided with her move to Dallas, TX. 'It was impossible to turn on the radio or walk into a store without hearing Garth Brooks. I went with the tide and became a believer.' Katie’s new show shares her favorites from that purely American genre, including Brooks, George Strait, Alan Jackson, Tammy Wynette and others.  In her usual fashion, Katie will weave the songs around stories from her gypsy life in St. Louis, Denver, Chicago, Dallas and New York. Rick Jensen is pianist and music director for the show, which features guest appearances by Robert Breig, Jeffrey M. Wright and Peter Dunne. 100% of McGrath’s proceeds will benefit St. Louis non-profit organization, Pianos for People."   For more information: bluestrawberrystl.com.

Circus Harmony in St. Louis and Circus Circuli in Stuttgart, St. Louis's German sister city, present Sister City Circus, on Circus Harmony’s YouTube page.  "Through a series of online meetings, workshops, and classes the two troupes created 6 different circus acts and then filmed them at iconic architectural locations in each of their cities." For more information, visit the Circus Harmony YouTube page.

The Fabulous Fox 

The Fabulous Fox Theatre presents A Dickens of a Tour, a holiday theatre tour inspired by Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol,  through December 27. "The tour depicts several of that tale’s characters including the ghosts of Christmas Past and Present, Jacob Marley, Victorian dancers and more!  This unique hour-long tour includes some of the history of the Fox Theatre while it is beautifully decorated for the holiday season.  Guest will visit five stations with access to backstage and the Fabulous Fox stage.  The tours are under the direction of Lara Teeter, Creative Director and Larry Pry, Music Director."  Strict COVID-19 safety protocols will be enforced during the tours. For more information: fabulousfox.com.

The Fabulous Fox Theatre presents the Omaha Community Playhouse production of A Christmas Carol via on-demand video streaming through January 3rd "It just isn't Christmas without A Christmas Carol! Experience the nation's favorite holiday tradition in a reimagined small cast version with eight cast members! Ebenezer Scrooge takes us on a life-changing journey to discover the true meaning of Christmas. Filled with stunning Victorian costumes, festive music and crisp, wintry sets, A Christmas Carol is a beautiful reminder that love and generosity are the heart of the Christmas holiday."  For more information: fabulousfox.com.

First Run Theatre presents an on-demand streaming version of Look Into My Eyes, a new play by Robb Willoughby, through the end of February 2021. The play can be viewed on First Run's YouTube channel as well as on the First Run Facebook page.

Fly North Theatricals presents three new free digital series. Their new digital line up includes The Spotlight Series, the Grown-Up Theatre Kids Podcast, and Gin and the Tonic. The Spotlight Series highlights the Fly North family of students and actors performing songs from previous FNT shows. In the Grown-Up Theatre Kids podcast you can join Colin Healy and Bradley Rohlf every other Friday as they explore life after drama club and what it means to make a living in theatre far from the lights of broadway. Gin and the Tonic is a "reckless unpacking of music history’s weirdest stories hosted by Colin Healy.” The Spotlight Series and Gin and the Tonic are available at the Fly North Theatricals YouTube channel and the Grown-Up Theatre Kids podcast can also be found on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Sticher, other podcast platforms. All three are updated on a bi-weekly (every other week) basis.

The Lemp Mansion Murder Mystery Dinner Theatre presents The Anti-Clause through January 9, 2021. "Ever wanted to be on a TV Christmas Special? Well, hold onto that dream because we’re just pretending. Welcome to the Judy St Judy television talk show! It’s the only daytime show that really gives Jerry Springer a run for his money. All kinds of non-functioning family skeletons will be brought to light tonight but the big news is that Judy St Judy has scored a huge guest for this year's Christmas Special. Spoiler alert, it's Santa Claus! And not everyone is happy to see him. Gee, hope nothing bad happens!" The Lemp Mansion is at 3322 DeMenil Place in south city. For more information: www.lempmansion.com

And in This Corner: Cassius Clay

Metro Theatre Company presents the streaming version of their critically acclaimed 2016 production of And In This Corner: Cassius Clay by Idris Goodwin for online classrooms, homeschools, learning pods, and other educational settings. "And In This Corner: Cassius Clay is the story of the young man who would become Muhammad Ali. From his relationship with a white police officer who introduced him to boxing as a kid in Jim Crow-era Louisville to his gold medal-winning performance in the 1960 Rome Olympics, Cassius holds onto the faith that his potential is unlimited. But it is the friends from his childhood who are becoming Freedom Riders who ultimately challenge him to understand that there is more to life than personal success: he must use his gifts to work for the good of his community." All tickets include a virtual lesson plan connected to Missouri curricular standards, along with additional resources to help address the topics of civil rights, racial equity, and social justice. For more information: www.metroplays.org/virtual-field-trips.

Moonstone Theatre Company presents Moonstone Connections, a series of in-depth interviews with arts leaders by company founder Sharon Hunter. New episodes air the third Tuesday of each month; see linktr.ee/moonstoneconnections for more information.

The Muny presents Attuned: Cast Me at the Muny, a nine-part podcast that "showcases audition tips and funny stories, while offering an inside look at what makes casting a Muny show so challenging." The series is available on demand at the Classic 107.3 web site. For more information: classic1073.org/podcasts

The Muny presents Muny Holiday Magic, a four-part holiday video series features performances by Muny family from across the country, including The Muny Kids and Teens. The videos will be available at the Muny YouTube channel through midnight on December 31t. For more information: https://muny.org/holidaymagic/

The OTSL Holiday Concert

Opera Theatre of St. Louis presents an on-line Holiday Concert through December 31st. "This winter concert will delight the entire family with popular holiday songs, ranging from traditional carols to movie tunes". For more information: opera-stl.org/holiday-concert.

The Repertory Theatre of St. Louis presents Cooking, Carols and Cocktails, a four-episode web series combining cooking classes by local chefs, musical performances, and tours of local restaurants, running through the end of January. "Join us in the kitchens of some of St. Louis’ master chefs as they guide us in creating a delectable seasonal spread. While your meal simmers, enjoy exclusive holiday music performances and a special cocktail taught by a guest mixologist. From appetizer to digestif, each of the four episodes in this series brings the best of St. Louis’ culinary and music scenes into your home for a festive feast." Tickets are available for individual episodes as well as for the full series. For more information: repstl.org.

The Repertory Theatre of St. Louis, in collaboration with Baltimore Center Stage, Long Wharf Theatre, The Public Theater and Woolly Mammoth Theatre Company, present Play at Home, a series of micro-commissioned short plays from some of the American theatre's most exciting and prominent playwrights. These new plays – which all run 10 minutes or less – are available for the public to download, read and perform at home for free at playathome.org.

Adena Varner and family

The Repertory Theatre of St. Louis presents a live video stream of the WiseWrite Digital Play Festival running until the end of the Rep's 2020-2021 season. “Step into the imagination of three young playwrights as The Rep presents professional readings of their new plays.” The production is directed by Adena Varner, the Rep's Director of Learning and Community Engagement. For more information: repstl.org.

The Repertory Theatre of St. Louis presents Love and Kindness in the Time of Quarantine via on-demand video stream through the end of 2020. "The beautiful and uplifting Love and Kindness in the Time of Quarantine offers hope, encouragement and perspective in a time of uncertainty. Through a blend of three songs and six monologues, this heartfelt and compassionate new work, led by The Rep’s playwright-in-residence Regina Taylor, reflects on the search for light in the darkness. Featuring nationally renowned writers Octavio Solis, Connie Congdon, Dustin Chinn and Isaac Gomez, as well as local favorites Tonina, Carter Lewis, Mariah Richardson and Tre’von Griffith." For more information: www.repstl.org

Deal Orlandersmith in
After the Flood

The Repertory Theatre of St. Louis and All Arts present Until the Flood, written and performed by Dael Orlandersmith, via on-demand streaming. "On August 9, 2014, Darren Wilson, a white police officer, shot and killed Michael Brown, an African American teenager in Ferguson, Missouri. The shooting ignited weeks of social unrest, propelled the Black Lives Matter movement and prompted a controversial investigation by the U.S. Department of Justice. Celebrated writer, performer and Pulitzer Prize finalist Dael Orlandersmith traveled to St. Louis and conducted interviews with dozens of people who were grievously shaken by Brown’s shooting and the turbulent aftermath. From these intimate conversations, Orlandersmith created eight unforgettable characters who embody a community struggling to come to terms with the personal damage caused by these events." For more information: allarts.org

R-S Theatrics presents While the Ghostlight Burns, a virtual discussion series featuring R-S Artistic Director Sarah Lynne Holt in conversation with St. Louis theatre artists, Mondays at 7 pm.  Conversations will be archived at the R-S Theatrics YouTube channel. For more information: r-stheatrics.com/while-the-ghostlight-burns.html

Come Together

The St. Louis Shakespeare Festival presents streaming videos from the SHAKE20 festival, including re-imagined, condensed versions of classic Shakespeare plays and new takes on old favorites like Joe Hanrahan's Come Together, at the Shakespeare Festival Facebook page at www.facebook.com/pg/STLShakesFest/videos

The St. Louis Shakespeare Festival presents A Walking Christmas Carol through December 23 in the Central West End. "Inspired by the tradition of taking in the grand holiday windows at Stix and Famous-Barr, A Walking Xmas Carol is a 20-stop, audio-musical and window-display reimagining of the classic tale by Charles Dickens. Local artists from PaintedBlack STL (“Stroll”) will create large-scale window installations interpreting Scrooge’s journey from a never before seen perspective while the musical adaptation Q Brothers Christmas Carol from the Q Brothers (Dress the Part) will guide guests throughout the walk along Euclid Avenue and Maryland Plaza." For more information: stlshakes.org/production/carol/

The St. Louis Writers Group streams live recordings of previous play reading sessions at their Facebook page. For more information: facebook.com.

SATE, in collaboration with COCA and Prison Performing Arts, presents Project Verse: Creativity in the Time of Quarantine. Project Verse presents two new plays: Quatrains in Quarantine by e.k. doolin and Dream On, Black Girl: Reflections in Quarantine by Maxine du Maine. The performances are streamed free of charge on SATE’s website and Facebook page. For more information: slightlyoff.org.

Classic Mystery Game

SATE also offers streaming performances of the shows originally scheduled for live 2020 productions: The Mary Shelley Monster Show, As You Like It (produced for SHAKE20, Project Verse, and Classic Mystery Game. The shows are available on their YouTube channel.

Union Avenue Opera offers Sneak Peeks of its 2021 season operas Il barbiere di Siviglia (The Barber of Seville), Les Contes d'Hoffmann (The Tales of Hoffmann) and The Cradle Will Rock on its YouTube channel.

The Washington University Performing Arts Department presents the world premiere of Remember...That Time Before the Last Time  through December 27 via on-demand streaming. "Remember is an exploration of the effects of race, social injustice and the traumatic impact of slavery on the creative impulses of a people/artists through spoken word, music and dance from the diaspora. Our lens focuses on survival from 1619 to 2020." The play is conceived and directed by Ron Himes. For more information: pad.wustl.edu.

Looking for auditions and other artistic opportunities? Check out the St. Louis Auditions site.

For information on events beyond this week, check out the searchable database at the Regional Arts Commission's Events Calendar.

Would you like to be on the radio? KDHX, 88.1 FM needs theatre reviewers. If you're 18 years or older, knowledgeable in this area, have practical theatre experience (acting, directing, writing, technical design, etc.), have good oral and written communications skills and would like to become one of our volunteer reviewers, send an email describing your experience and interests to chuck at kdhx.org. Please include a sample review of something you've seen recently.

St. Louis theatre calendar for the week of December 14, 2020

Now including both on-line and live events during the pandemic. To get your event listed here, send an email to calendar [at] stageleft.org.

The Blue Strawberry presents Not an Open Mic with Zack Sloan & Neil C. Luke on Friday, December 18, at 7 pm. "Zack Sloan "Zacksquatch" and Neil C. Luke don't do an Open Mic, but they do do a lot of fine acoustic playing and singing. They are inviting their musician friends to come down." The Strawberry invites you to come on down and sing, play, listen and enjoy. The club is operating under a "COVID careful" arrangement with restricted indoor capacity and other precautions. The Blue Strawberry is on North Boyle in the Central West End. For more information: bluestrawberrystl.com.

The Blue Strawberry presents an Terry Barber in Christmas Presence on Saturday, December 19, at 7:00 pm.  "From classics to classical—celebrate the holiday season with an evening of carols and inspirational popular favorites. This show is a crowd-pleasing favorite that will leave audiences uplifted and filled with joy!" The club is operating under a "COVID careful" arrangement with restricted indoor capacity and other precautions. The show is also available via live streaming video. The Blue Strawberry is on North Boyle in the Central West End. For more information: bluestrawberrystl.com.

The Blue Strawberry presents Denise Thimes in A Denise Thimes Christmas on Sunday, December 20, at 4:00 and 7:00 pm.  Backing her in the holiday-themed show are Adaron “Pops” Jackson, piano; John King, bass; and Demarius Hicks, drums. The club is operating under a "COVID careful" arrangement with restricted indoor capacity and other precautions. The show is also available via live streaming video. The Blue Strawberry is on North Boyle in the Central West End. For more information: bluestrawberrystl.com.

Circus Harmony in St. Louis and Circus Circuli in Stuttgart, St. Louis's German sister city, present Sister City Circus, on Circus Harmony’s YouTube page beginning on December 19 at noon.  "Through a series of online meetings, workshops, and classes the two troupes created 6 different circus acts and then filmed them at iconic architectural locations in each of their cities." For more information, visit the Circus Harmony YouTube page.

The Fabulous Fox 

The Fabulous Fox Theatre presents A Dickens of a Tour, a holiday theatre tour inspired by Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol,  through December 18. "The tour depicts several of that tale’s characters including the ghosts of Christmas Past and Present, Jacob Marley, Victorian dancers and more!  This unique hour-long tour includes some of the history of the Fox Theatre while it is beautifully decorated for the holiday season.  Guest will visit five stations with access to backstage and the Fabulous Fox stage.  The tours are under the direction of Lara Teeter, Creative Director and Larry Pry, Music Director."  Strict COVID-19 safety protocols will be enforced during the tours. For more information: fabulousfox.com.

First Run Theatre presents an on-demand streaming version of Look Into My Eyes, a new play by Robb Willoughby, through the end of February 2021. The play can be viewed on First Run's YouTube channel as well as on the First Run Facebook page.

Fly North Theatricals presents three new free digital series. Their new digital line up includes The Spotlight Series, the Grown-Up Theatre Kids Podcast, and Gin and the Tonic. The Spotlight Series highlights the Fly North family of students and actors performing songs from previous FNT shows. In the Grown-Up Theatre Kids podcast you can join Colin Healy and Bradley Rohlf every other Friday as they explore life after drama club and what it means to make a living in theatre far from the lights of broadway. Gin and the Tonic is a "reckless unpacking of music history’s weirdest stories hosted by Colin Healy.” The Spotlight Series and Gin and the Tonic are available at the Fly North Theatricals YouTube channel and the Grown-Up Theatre Kids podcast can also be found on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Sticher, other podcast platforms. All three are updated on a bi-weekly (every other week) basis.

The Lemp Mansion Murder Mystery Dinner Theatre presents The Anti-Clause through January 9, 2021. "Ever wanted to be on a TV Christmas Special? Well, hold onto that dream because we’re just pretending. Welcome to the Judy St Judy television talk show! It’s the only daytime show that really gives Jerry Springer a run for his money. All kinds of non-functioning family skeletons will be brought to light tonight but the big news is that Judy St Judy has scored a huge guest for this year's Christmas Special. Spoiler alert, it's Santa Claus! And not everyone is happy to see him. Gee, hope nothing bad happens!" The Lemp Mansion is at 3322 DeMenil Place in south city. For more information: www.lempmansion.com

And in This Corner: Cassius Clay

Metro Theatre Company presents the streaming version of their critically acclaimed 2016 production of And In This Corner: Cassius Clay by Idris Goodwin for online classrooms, homeschools, learning pods, and other educational settings. "And In This Corner: Cassius Clay is the story of the young man who would become Muhammad Ali. From his relationship with a white police officer who introduced him to boxing as a kid in Jim Crow-era Louisville to his gold medal-winning performance in the 1960 Rome Olympics, Cassius holds onto the faith that his potential is unlimited. But it is the friends from his childhood who are becoming Freedom Riders who ultimately challenge him to understand that there is more to life than personal success: he must use his gifts to work for the good of his community." All tickets include a virtual lesson plan connected to Missouri curricular standards, along with additional resources to help address the topics of civil rights, racial equity, and social justice. For more information: www.metroplays.org/virtual-field-trips.

Moonstone Theatre Company presents Moonstone Connections, a series of in-depth interviews with arts leaders by company founder Sharon Hunter. New episodes air the third Tuesday of each month; see linktr.ee/moonstoneconnections for more information.

The Muny presents Attuned: Cast Me at the Muny, a nine-part podcast that "showcases audition tips and funny stories, while offering an inside look at what makes casting a Muny show so challenging." The series is available on demand at the Classic 107.3 web site. For more information: classic1073.org/podcasts

The OTSL Holiday Concert

Opera Theatre of St. Louis presents an on-line Holiday Concert through December 31st. "This winter concert will delight the entire family with popular holiday songs, ranging from traditional carols to movie tunes". For more information: opera-stl.org/holiday-concert.

The Repertory Theatre of St. Louis presents Cooking, Carols and Cocktails, a four-episode web series combining cooking classes by local chefs, musical performances, and tours of local restaurants, running through the end of January. "Join us in the kitchens of some of St. Louis’ master chefs as they guide us in creating a delectable seasonal spread. While your meal simmers, enjoy exclusive holiday music performances and a special cocktail taught by a guest mixologist. From appetizer to digestif, each of the four episodes in this series brings the best of St. Louis’ culinary and music scenes into your home for a festive feast." Tickets are available for individual episodes as well as for the full series. For more information: repstl.org.

The Repertory Theatre of St. Louis, in collaboration with Baltimore Center Stage, Long Wharf Theatre, The Public Theater and Woolly Mammoth Theatre Company, present Play at Home, a series of micro-commissioned short plays from some of the American theatre's most exciting and prominent playwrights. These new plays – which all run 10 minutes or less – are available for the public to download, read and perform at home for free at playathome.org.

Adena Varner and family

The Repertory Theatre of St. Louis presents a live video stream of the WiseWrite Digital Play Festival running until the end of the Rep's 2020-2021 season. “Step into the imagination of three young playwrights as The Rep presents professional readings of their new plays.” The production is directed by Adena Varner, the Rep's Director of Learning and Community Engagement. For more information: repstl.org.

The Repertory Theatre of St. Louis presents Love and Kindness in the Time of Quarantine via on-demand video stream through the end of 2020. "The beautiful and uplifting Love and Kindness in the Time of Quarantine offers hope, encouragement and perspective in a time of uncertainty. Through a blend of three songs and six monologues, this heartfelt and compassionate new work, led by The Rep’s playwright-in-residence Regina Taylor, reflects on the search for light in the darkness. Featuring nationally renowned writers Octavio Solis, Connie Congdon, Dustin Chinn and Isaac Gomez, as well as local favorites Tonina, Carter Lewis, Mariah Richardson and Tre’von Griffith." For more information: www.repstl.org

Deal Orlandersmith in
After the Flood

The Repertory Theatre of St. Louis and All Arts present Until the Flood, written and performed by Dael Orlandersmith, via on-demand streaming. "On August 9, 2014, Darren Wilson, a white police officer, shot and killed Michael Brown, an African American teenager in Ferguson, Missouri. The shooting ignited weeks of social unrest, propelled the Black Lives Matter movement and prompted a controversial investigation by the U.S. Department of Justice. Celebrated writer, performer and Pulitzer Prize finalist Dael Orlandersmith traveled to St. Louis and conducted interviews with dozens of people who were grievously shaken by Brown’s shooting and the turbulent aftermath. From these intimate conversations, Orlandersmith created eight unforgettable characters who embody a community struggling to come to terms with the personal damage caused by these events." For more information: allarts.org

The Repertory Theatre of St. Louis and Metro Theater Company present  #ENOUGH: Plays to End Gun Violence available on for on-demand streaming through December 20. "This selection of staged readings is the culmination of a yearlong theatre initiative that encourages teens to confront gun violence by creating new works of theatre. A panel of nationally recognized dramatists including Lauren Gunderson, Academy Award winner Tarell Alvin McCraney, Pulitzer Prize winner Robert Schenkkan, Tony Award winner David Henry Hwang, and Karen Zacarías selected the plays out of 184 submissions from 23 states and three countries." For more information: repstl.org.

R-S Theatrics presents While the Ghostlight Burns, a virtual discussion series featuring R-S Artistic Director Sarah Lynne Holt in conversation with St. Louis theatre artists, Mondays at 7 pm.  Conversations will be archived at the R-S Theatrics YouTube channel. For more information: r-stheatrics.com/while-the-ghostlight-burns.html

Come Together

The St. Louis Shakespeare Festival presents streaming videos from the SHAKE20 festival, including re-imagined, condensed versions of classic Shakespeare plays and new takes on old favorites like Joe Hanrahan's Come Together, at the Shakespeare Festival Facebook page at www.facebook.com/pg/STLShakesFest/videos

The St. Louis Shakespeare Festival presents A Walking Christmas Carol through December 23 in the Central West End. "Inspired by the tradition of taking in the grand holiday windows at Stix and Famous-Barr, A Walking Xmas Carol is a 20-stop, audio-musical and window-display reimagining of the classic tale by Charles Dickens. Local artists from PaintedBlack STL (“Stroll”) will create large-scale window installations interpreting Scrooge’s journey from a never before seen perspective while the musical adaptation Q Brothers Christmas Carol from the Q Brothers (Dress the Part) will guide guests throughout the walk along Euclid Avenue and Maryland Plaza." For more information: stlshakes.org/production/carol/

The St. Louis Writers Group streams live recordings of previous play reading sessions at their Facebook page. For more information: facebook.com.

SATE, in collaboration with COCA and Prison Performing Arts, presents Project Verse: Creativity in the Time of Quarantine. Project Verse presents two new plays: Quatrains in Quarantine by e.k. doolin and Dream On, Black Girl: Reflections in Quarantine by Maxine du Maine. The performances are streamed free of charge on SATE’s website and Facebook page. For more information: slightlyoff.org.

Union Avenue Opera offers Sneak Peeks of its 2021 season operas Il barbiere di Siviglia (The Barber of Seville), Les Contes d'Hoffmann (The Tales of Hoffmann) and The Cradle Will Rock on its YouTube channel.

The Washington University Performing Arts Department presents the world premiere of Remember...That Time Before the Last Time  through December 27 via on-demand streaming. "Remember is an exploration of the effects of race, social injustice and the traumatic impact of slavery on the creative impulses of a people/artists through spoken word, music and dance from the diaspora. Our lens focuses on survival from 1619 to 2020." The play is conceived and directed by Ron Himes. For more information: pad.wustl.edu.

Looking for auditions and other artistic opportunities? Check out the St. Louis Auditions site.

For information on events beyond this week, check out the searchable database at the Regional Arts Commission's Events Calendar.

Would you like to be on the radio? KDHX, 88.1 FM needs theatre reviewers. If you're 18 years or older, knowledgeable in this area, have practical theatre experience (acting, directing, writing, technical design, etc.), have good oral and written communications skills and would like to become one of our volunteer reviewers, send an email describing your experience and interests to chuck at kdhx.org. Please include a sample review of something you've seen recently.

Review: Opera Theatre's Holiday Concert offers peace on earth for troubled times

It’s December. In the performing arts world, that would normally mean at least one of the following: a stage adaptation of Dickens's “A Christmas Carol” (probably with music), Handel's “Messiah,” Tchaikovsky's “The Nutcracker,” or just anything with visions of sugarplums.

L-R: Ryan Johnson, Angel Riley,
Benjamin Taylor, Stephanie Sanchez,
Alex Rosen

But it’s 2020 and an unchecked pandemic has filled hospitals and emptied theatres and concert halls. That doesn’t mean you can’t find plenty of musical holiday cheer; it’s just that you’ll be enjoying it online instead of in person.

Opera Theatre has gotten into the spirit of the season early with their Holiday Concert. Available all month for on-demand streaming from their web site, it's the first program in their 2020-21 Digital Studio series. It stars a talented cast of five singers (most of whom are alumni of OTSL’s Young Artist program) accompanied by pianist Mauro Ronca under the skillful direction of OTSL Artistic Director James Robinson and conductor Roberto Kalb. The show is a holly jolly mix of traditional Christmas carols, Great American Songbook classics, and a well-chosen set of festive numbers from the worlds of opera and operetta.

Recorded at the Levy Opera Center on the Webster University campus, the Holiday Concert is an impeccably staged event, complete with a seasonal set of fake snow and Christmas trees backed up by digital projections by Greg Emetaz that can change the scene in an instant from a snowy forest to Art Hill to the Gateway Arch. The performers are all decked out in cold-weather garb courtesy of Costume Coordinator Stacy Michele Harris, and even their music books have colorful gift wrap covers. In short, it’s a visual treat as well as an auditory delight.

Not only do the singers sound heavenly as an ensemble in the opening set of traditional carols, but they each get a chance to shine in solo and small-group numbers as well.

Baritone Benjamin Taylor is the program’s first soloist in a celebratory rendition of the classic spiritual “Go Tell It On the Mountain,” complete with a joyful final verse by the whole group. Next, soprano Angel Riley and mezzo Stephanie Sanchez combine their clear, well-matched voices in a moving performance of “Oh Holy Night” (the English version of Adam’s “Cantique de Noël”). The trio of tenor Ryan Johnson, bass Alex Rosen, and Mr. Taylor follow with, appropriately, “We Three Kings of Orient Are.” Mr. Rosen’s powerful low notes are especially impressive in the “Myrrh is mine” verse as well as in the final verse of “Let It Snow” later.

L-R: Mauro Ronca, Angel Riley, and the ensemble

In the second half of the concert, Ms. Riley and Mr. Taylor get a chance to display their operatic chops with some soaring high notes in the “Brindisi” from “La Traviata,” followed by Mr. Johnson’s impassioned “Dein ist mein ganzes Herz” from Lehar’s “The Land of Smiles.” Then the whole ensemble has plenty of fun with of a pair of numbers from “Die Fledermaus.”

For me, though, one of the most moving things in the entire program was Ms. Sanchez’s heartfelt “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas.” Written by Ralph Blaine and Hugh Martin for the 1944 film “Meet Me in St. Louis,” the song’s wistful hope that “through the years we all will be together / If the fates allow” seems especially appropriate in the Age of COVID.

Opera Theatre’s enchanting Holiday Concert is available on demand through December 31st. It offers a welcome dose of peace on earth and goodwill to all at a time in our nation’s history when both seem to be in short supply. For more information on the concert as well as the rest of OTSL's 20201 Digital Sudio series, visit the company web site.

This article originally appeared at 88.1 KDHX, where Chuck Lavazzi is the senior performing arts critic.

St. Louis theatre calendar for the week of December 7th, 2020

Now including both on-line and live events during the pandemic. To get your event listed here, send an email to calendar [at] stageleft.org.

Debby Lennon

The Blue Strawberry presents an Debby Lennon in I'll Be Home For Christmas, Due to COVID-19 Restrictions on Saturday, December 12, at 7:30 pm.  "Debby Lennon's Holiday Show is filled with the charm and spirit of this historically most wonderful time of the year, while realizing the reality of our first Covid Christmas." The club is operating under a "COVID careful" arrangement with restricted indoor capacity and other precautions. The show can also be viewed live via streaming video. The Blue Strawberry is on North Boyle in the Central West End. For more information: bluestrawberrystl.com.

The Blue Strawberry presents an open mic night hosted by Sean Skrbec and Patrick White on Sunday, December 13, at 7 pm. The Strawberry invites you to come on down and sing, play, listen and enjoy. The club is operating under a "COVID careful" arrangement with restricted indoor capacity and other precautions. The Blue Strawberry is on North Boyle in the Central West End. For more information: bluestrawberrystl.com.

The Fabulous Fox 

The Fabulous Fox Theatre presents A Dickens of a Tour, a holiday theatre tour inspired by Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol,  through December 18. "The tour depicts several of that tale’s characters including the ghosts of Christmas Past and Present, Jacob Marley, Victorian dancers and more!  This unique hour-long tour includes some of the history of the Fox Theatre while it is beautifully decorated for the holiday season.  Guest will visit five stations with access to backstage and the Fabulous Fox stage.  The tours are under the direction of Lara Teeter, Creative Director and Larry Pry, Music Director."  Strict COVID-19 safety protocols will be enforced during the tours. For more information: fabulousfox.com.

First Run Theatre presents an on-demand streaming version of Look Into My Eyes, a new play by Robb Willoughby, through the end of February 2021. The play can be viewed on First Run's YouTube channel as well as on the First Run Facebook page.

Fly North Theatricals presents three new free digital series. Their new digital line up includes The Spotlight Series, the Grown-Up Theatre Kids Podcast, and Gin and the Tonic. The Spotlight Series highlights the Fly North family of students and actors performing songs from previous FNT shows. In the Grown-Up Theatre Kids podcast you can join Colin Healy and Bradley Rohlf every other Friday as they explore life after drama club and what it means to make a living in theatre far from the lights of broadway. Gin and the Tonic is a "reckless unpacking of music history’s weirdest stories hosted by Colin Healy.” The Spotlight Series and Gin and the Tonic are available at the Fly North Theatricals YouTube channel and the Grown-Up Theatre Kids podcast can also be found on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Sticher, other podcast platforms. All three are updated on a bi-weekly (every other week) basis.

The Lemp Mansion Murder Mystery Dinner Theatre presents The Anti-Clause through January 9, 2021. "Ever wanted to be on a TV Christmas Special? Well, hold onto that dream because we’re just pretending. Welcome to the Judy St Judy television talk show! It’s the only daytime show that really gives Jerry Springer a run for his money. All kinds of non-functioning family skeletons will be brought to light tonight but the big news is that Judy St Judy has scored a huge guest for this year's Christmas Special. Spoiler alert, it's Santa Claus! And not everyone is happy to see him. Gee, hope nothing bad happens!" The Lemp Mansion is at 3322 DeMenil Place in south city. For more information: www.lempmansion.com

And in This Corner: Cassius Clay

Metro Theatre Company presents the streaming version of their critically acclaimed 2016 production of And In This Corner: Cassius Clay by Idris Goodwin for online classrooms, homeschools, learning pods, and other educational settings. "And In This Corner: Cassius Clay is the story of the young man who would become Muhammad Ali. From his relationship with a white police officer who introduced him to boxing as a kid in Jim Crow-era Louisville to his gold medal-winning performance in the 1960 Rome Olympics, Cassius holds onto the faith that his potential is unlimited. But it is the friends from his childhood who are becoming Freedom Riders who ultimately challenge him to understand that there is more to life than personal success: he must use his gifts to work for the good of his community." All tickets include a virtual lesson plan connected to Missouri curricular standards, along with additional resources to help address the topics of civil rights, racial equity, and social justice. For more information: www.metroplays.org/virtual-field-trips.

Metro Theater Company created an all-St. Louis on-line virtual reading of A Christmas Carol Thursday at 6:30 pm and Sunday at 2:30 pm, December 10 and 13. "MTC and over two dozen St. Louis artists, athletes, civic leaders, media personalities, and first responders - led by award-winning actors/producers Sterling K. Brown and Ryan Michelle Bathé, and Emmy nominee Ellie Kemper, are delighted to share a virtual reading of Charles Dickens’s classic holiday tale with you this holiday season." Advance registration is required; for more information: www.metroplays.org/christmascarol

Moonstone Theatre Company presents Moonstone Connections, a series of in-depth interviews with arts leaders by company founder Sharon Hunter. New episodes air the third Tuesday of each month; see linktr.ee/moonstoneconnections for more information.

The Muny presents Attuned: Cast Me at the Muny, a nine-part podcast that "showcases audition tips and funny stories, while offering an inside look at what makes casting a Muny show so challenging." The series is available on demand at the Classic 107.3 web site. For more information: classic1073.org/podcasts

The OTSL Holiday Concert

Opera Theatre of St. Louis presents an on-line Holiday Concert through December 31st. "This winter concert will delight the entire family with popular holiday songs, ranging from traditional carols to movie tunes". For more information: opera-stl.org/holiday-concert.

The Repertory Theatre of St. Louis, in collaboration with Baltimore Center Stage, Long Wharf Theatre, The Public Theater and Woolly Mammoth Theatre Company, present Play at Home, a series of micro-commissioned short plays from some of the American theatre's most exciting and prominent playwrights. These new plays – which all run 10 minutes or less – are available for the public to download, read and perform at home for free at playathome.org.

Adena Varner and family

The Repertory Theatre of St. Louis presents a live video stream of the WiseWrite Digital Play Festival running until the end of the Rep's 2020-2021 season. “Step into the imagination of three young playwrights as The Rep presents professional readings of their new plays.” The production is directed by Adena Varner, the Rep's Director of Learning and Community Engagement. For more information: repstl.org.

The Repertory Theatre of St. Louis presents Love and Kindness in the Time of Quarantine via on-demand video stream through the end of 2020. "The beautiful and uplifting Love and Kindness in the Time of Quarantine offers hope, encouragement and perspective in a time of uncertainty. Through a blend of three songs and six monologues, this heartfelt and compassionate new work, led by The Rep’s playwright-in-residence Regina Taylor, reflects on the search for light in the darkness. Featuring nationally renowned writers Octavio Solis, Connie Congdon, Dustin Chinn and Isaac Gomez, as well as local favorites Tonina, Carter Lewis, Mariah Richardson and Tre’von Griffith." For more information: www.repstl.org

Deal Orlandersmith in
After the Flood

The Repertory Theatre of St. Louis and All Arts present Until the Flood, written and performed by Dael Orlandersmith, via on-demand streaming. "On August 9, 2014, Darren Wilson, a white police officer, shot and killed Michael Brown, an African American teenager in Ferguson, Missouri. The shooting ignited weeks of social unrest, propelled the Black Lives Matter movement and prompted a controversial investigation by the U.S. Department of Justice. Celebrated writer, performer and Pulitzer Prize finalist Dael Orlandersmith traveled to St. Louis and conducted interviews with dozens of people who were grievously shaken by Brown’s shooting and the turbulent aftermath. From these intimate conversations, Orlandersmith created eight unforgettable characters who embody a community struggling to come to terms with the personal damage caused by these events." For more information: allarts.org

R-S Theatrics presents While the Ghostlight Burns, a virtual discussion series featuring R-S Artistic Director Sarah Lynne Holt in conversation with St. Louis theatre artists, Mondays at 7 pm.  Conversations will be archived at the R-S Theatrics YouTube channel. For more information: r-stheatrics.com/while-the-ghostlight-burns.html

Come Together

The St. Louis Shakespeare Festival presents streaming videos from the SHAKE20 festival, including re-imagined, condensed versions of classic Shakespeare plays and new takes on old favorites like Joe Hanrahan's Come Together, at the Shakespeare Festival Facebook page at www.facebook.com/pg/STLShakesFest/videos

The St. Louis Shakespeare Festival presents A Walking Christmas Carol through December 23 in the Central West End. "Inspired by the tradition of taking in the grand holiday windows at Stix and Famous-Barr, A Walking Xmas Carol is a 20-stop, audio-musical and window-display reimagining of the classic tale by Charles Dickens. Local artists from PaintedBlack STL (“Stroll”) will create large-scale window installations interpreting Scrooge’s journey from a never before seen perspective while the musical adaptation Q Brothers Christmas Carol from the Q Brothers (Dress the Part) will guide guests throughout the walk along Euclid Avenue and Maryland Plaza." For more information: stlshakes.org/production/carol/

The St. Louis Writers Group streams live recordings of previous play reading sessions at their Facebook page. For more information: facebook.com.

SATE, in collaboration with COCA and Prison Performing Arts, presents Project Verse: Creativity in the Time of Quarantine. Project Verse presents two new plays: Quatrains in Quarantine by e.k. doolin and Dream On, Black Girl: Reflections in Quarantine by Maxine du Maine. The performances are streamed free of charge on SATE’s website and Facebook page. For more information: slightlyoff.org.

Union Avenue Opera offers Sneak Peeks of its 2021 season operas Il barbiere di Siviglia (The Barber of Seville), Les Contes d'Hoffmann (The Tales of Hoffmann) and The Cradle Will Rock on its YouTube channel.

The Washington University Performing Arts Department presents the world premiere of Remember...That Time Before the Last Time opening on Friday, December 11, at 7 pm and continuing through December 27 via on-demand streaming. "Remember is an exploration of the effects of race, social injustice and the traumatic impact of slavery on the creative impulses of a people/artists through spoken word, music and dance from the diaspora. Our lens focuses on survival from 1619 to 2020." The play is conceived and directed by Ron Himes. For more information: pad.wustl.edu.

Looking for auditions and other artistic opportunities? Check out the St. Louis Auditions site.

For information on events beyond this week, check out the searchable database at the Regional Arts Commission's Events Calendar.

Would you like to be on the radio? KDHX, 88.1 FM needs theatre reviewers. If you're 18 years or older, knowledgeable in this area, have practical theatre experience (acting, directing, writing, technical design, etc.), have good oral and written communications skills and would like to become one of our volunteer reviewers, send an email describing your experience and interests to chuck at kdhx.org. Please include a sample review of something you've seen recently.