St. Louis theatre calendar for the week of December 28, 2015

[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 web site.

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The Bissell Mansion Murder Mystery Dinner Theatre presents And Away You Go January 1 through March 27. The Bissell Mansion is at 4426 Randall Place. For more information: bissellmansiontheatre.com.

Chuck Lavazzi
Photo: Jill Ritter Lindberg

The Tavern of Fine Arts presents Concert for Change, a cabaret showcase in support of The Brady Campaign to Prevent Gun Violence, on Saturday, January 2, at 8 p.m. "Calling all moms, dads, brothers, sisters, grandmas, grandpas, sons, daughters, aunts, uncles and cousins: Get your Peter, Paul and Mary on for a great musical evening. Join music director Carol Schmidt and singers Matt Anderson, Bob Becherer, Anna Blair, Steve Brannmeier, Robert Breig, Michele Isam, Chuck Lavazzi, Kay Love, Katie McGrath, Elizabeth Murphy, Angela Nicholson, Dionna Raedeke, Charlene Reiman, Christy Simmons and Jeffrey M. Wright for a free concert to promote the need for change in our gun laws. No speeching, teaching or preaching. Online petitions will be available from The Brady Campaign to Prevent Gun Violence for sign-up on the spot and contact info on our local, state and national representatives who need to know we support their efforts for change." The Tavern of Fine arts is at 313 Belt in the Debaliviere Place neighborhood. For more information: tavern-of-fine-arts.blogspot.com.

The Lemp Mansion Comedy-Mystery Dinner Theater presents The Naughty List through January 2. The Lemp Mansion is at 3322 DeMenil Place. For more information: lempmansion.com

The Monocle presents an open mic night every Mondays from 9:00pm to midnight. "Musical Theater actor? Cabaret singer? Balladeer? Beleter? Coloratura soprano? Crooner? Student? Teacher? Performer? Fan? Come on down and sing. All are welcome. Ron Bryant is your accompanist. Bring your sheet music"." The monocle is at 4510 Manchester in The Grove neighborhood. For more information: themonoclestl.com.

Wicked
Photo: Joan Marcus

The Fox Theatre presents the musical Wicked, based on the novel by Gregory McGuire, through January 3. "Long before that girl from Kansas arrives in Munchkinland, two girls meet in the land of Oz. One - born with emerald green skin - is smart, fiery and misunderstood. The other is beautiful, ambitious and very popular. How these two grow to become the Wicked Witch of the West and Glinda the Good makes for 'the most complete - and completely satisfying - musical in a long time' (USA Today)." The Fox Theatre is at 517 North Grand in Grand Center. For more information, fabulousfox.com or call 314-534-1678. Read the 88.1 KDHX review!

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 June 29, 2015

[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 web site.

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The Fantasticks

Insight Theatre Company presents the classic musical The Fantasticks July 2-18. "This long running show is a funny and romantic musical about a boy, a girl, two fathers, and a wall. The narrator, El Gallo, asks the audience to use their imaginations and follow him into a world of moonlight and magic. The young lovers do come to realize that, just as El Gallo had said, 'Without a hurt, the heart is hollow.'" Performances take place in the Heagney Theatre, 530 East Lockwood on the campus of Nerinx Hall High School in Webster Groves. For more information, call 314-556-1293 or visit insighttheatrecompany.com.

The Lemp Mansion Comedy-Mystery Dinner Theater presents A Fistful Of Hollers through August 29. The Lemp Mansion is at 3322 DeMenil Place. For more information: lempmansion.com.

Grand Center presents the Grand Center Theatre Crawl on Friday, July 3, from 6 to 9 p.m. at various locations in the Grand Center Arts District. " It's a 'tasting menu' of the best of St. Louis theatre, and it's free! Every half hour, 6-9pm, you'll stroll to a different Grand Center venue for a short show from one of your favorite St. Louis theatre companies. See shows from nine St. Louis theatre companies, and yes, there will be prizes!" Featured theatre companies include Prison Performing Arts, West End Players Guild, St. Louis Actors' Studio, Insight Theatre Company, R-S Theatrics, and Union Avenue Opera. For more information: grandcenter.org

Hairspray
muny.com

The Muny presents the classic musical Hairspray nightly at 8:15 PM through June 30 in the outdoor theatre in Forest Park. "Winner of eight Tony® Awards including the 2003 Tony® for Best Musical, Hairspray brings its infectious beat and hilarious fun to the Muny for 8 performances. Set in the changing times of 1960s Baltimore, Tracy Turnblad dreams of dancing on the Corny Collins Show AND creating a perfect integrated world! Does she have the moves and the courage? Based on the 1988 John Waters Film of the same name, Hairspray features incredible dance numbers and a blazing set of pop tunes including "Good Morning Baltimore" and "You Can't Stop The Beat!"" For more information, visit muny.org or call 314-361-1900. Read the 88.1 KDHX review!

The Bissell Mansion Murder Mystery Dinner Theatre presents Mayhem In Mayberry through July 26. The Bissell Mansion is at 4426 Randall Place. For more information: bissellmansiontheatre.com

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 29, 2014

[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 web site.

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A Christmas Story: the Musical

The Fox Theatre presents A Christmas Story: the Musical through January 4. "Ralphie Parker wants only one thing for Christmas; An Official Red Ryder Carbine-Action 200-shot Range Model Air Rifle. A CHRISTMAS STORY, The Musical is the hilarious account of Ralphie's desperate quest to ensure that this most perfect of gifts ends up under his tree this Christmas. This new Broadway musical is based on the classic 1983 movie, which itself was based on stories by legendary radio humorist Jean Shepherd. With songs both funny and heartfelt by Benj Pasek and Justin Paul, and a faithful yet inventive book by Joseph Robinette, A CHRISTMAS STORY captures holiday wonder with such deliciously wicked wit that it is sure to delight children and grown-ups alike. It's the Christmas present that you'll cherish all holiday long." The Fox is at 527 North Grand in Grand Center. For more information, fabulousfox.com. Read the 88.1 KDHX review!

The Bissell Mansion Murder Mystery Dinner Theatre presents Murder on 34th Street through December. The Bissell Mansion is at 4426 Randall Place. For more information: bissellmansiontheatre.com

The Bissell Mansion Murder Mystery Dinner Theatre presents Phantom of the Grand Ole Opery January 2 - April 26. The Bissell Mansion is at 4426 Randall Place. For more information: bissellmansiontheatre.com

Joe Hanrahan

The Midnight Company presents Joe Hanrahan in Eric Bogosian's one-man play Sex, Drugs, Rock and Roll Friday through Sunday, January 2-4. "Bogosian's solo shows, which also include DRINKING IN AMERICA, WAKE UP AND SMELL THE COFFEE and POUNDING NAILS IN THE FLOOR WITH MY FOREHEAD, are scorching social commentaries on the urban and suburban scene - presenting portraits of contemporary men, from the homeless to possession-crazed millionaires to fading rock stars - “scabrously funny ” (Boston Phoenix) and “combustibly funny” (Newsday) monologues exposing their hidden fears, hypocrisy and rage." The performances take place at Herbie's Vintage 72, 405 N. Euclid in the Central West End. A special pre/post-theatre menu will be available before or after the show, cocktails will be available for the performance, and live music will follow Sunday performances. For more information: midnightcompany.com.

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 22, 2014

[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 web site.

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Bah! Humbug!
Photo: Eric Woolsey

The Rep's Imaginary Theatre Company presents Bah! Humbug!, adapted from A Christams Carol, with book, music, and lyrics by Jack Herrick through December 23. "Mr. Scrooge throws his TV remote at ghosts while Bob Cratchit works inside the ATM in this hilarious modern update of a beloved holiday classic. Travel with the three spirits on a journey through past, present and future as old Ebenezer learns the joys of kindness and giving. Can Christmas be saved for the Cratchits? You'll find out in this musical romp that is sure to put a smile on the "Scroogiest" of faces." Performances take place at Heagney Theatre at Nerinx Hall High School, 530 East Lockwood Avenue in Webster Groves. For more information, call 314-968-4925 or visit repstl.org.

A Christmas Story: the Musical

The Fox Theatre presents A Christmas Story: the Musical December 16 - January 4. "Ralphie Parker wants only one thing for Christmas; An Official Red Ryder Carbine-Action 200-shot Range Model Air Rifle. A CHRISTMAS STORY, The Musical is the hilarious account of Ralphie's desperate quest to ensure that this most perfect of gifts ends up under his tree this Christmas. This new Broadway musical is based on the classic 1983 movie, which itself was based on stories by legendary radio humorist Jean Shepherd. With songs both funny and heartfelt by Benj Pasek and Justin Paul, and a faithful yet inventive book by Joseph Robinette, A CHRISTMAS STORY captures holiday wonder with such deliciously wicked wit that it is sure to delight children and grown-ups alike. It's the Christmas present that you'll cherish all holiday long." The Fox is at 527 North Grand in Grand Center. For more information, fabulousfox.com.

The Lemp Mansion Comedy-Mystery Dinner Theater presents its Harm for the Holidays through December 27. The Lemp Mansion is at 3322 DeMenil Place. For more information: lempmansion.com

The Bissell Mansion Murder Mystery Dinner Theatre presents Murder on 34th Street through December. The Bissell Mansion is at 4426 Randall Place. For more information: bissellmansiontheatre.com

Ring of Fire
Photo: Jerry Naunheim, Jr.

The Repertory Theatre of St. Louis presents Ring of Fire: the Music of Johnny Cash through December 28. "Featuring a company of multi-talented performers and over 30 hits from his iconic songbook, this spirited musical takes you on a journey through the life and career of The Man in Black. Exploring love, faith, struggle and success, songs such as " Boy Named Sue," "Daddy Sang Bass," "Folsom Prison Blues," "Jackson" and "I Walk the Line" tell the story of Johnny Cash in a salute to this unique American legend." Performances take place on the mainstage at the Loretto-Hlton Center, 130 Edgar Road in Webster Groves, MO. For more information, call 314-968-4925 or visit repstl.org. Read the 88.1 KDHX review!

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 September 1, 2014

[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 web site.

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The Bissell Mansion Murder Mystery Dinner Theatre presents A Big Easy Murder through October 26. The Bissell Mansion is at 4426 Randall Place. For more information: bissellmansiontheatre.com

The Theatre Guild of Webster Groves presents the comedy/drama Dearly Departed September 5-14. Performances take place in the Guild theatre at Newport and Summit in Webster Groves, MO. For more information: theatreguildwg.org or call 314-962-0876.

Photo: Peter Wochniak

Stages St. Louis presents the classic musical Fiddler on the Roof September 5-October 5. "Winner of the Tony Award for Best Musical and one of the most touching creations in the history of Broadway, featuring such heartfelt and beloved songs as 'Sunrise, Sunset,' 'If I Were A Rich Man,' and 'Matchmaker, Matchmaker'.” Performances take place in the Robert G. Reim Theatre at the Kirkwood Community Center, 111 South Geyer Road in Kirkwood. For more information, visit stagesstlouis.org or call 314-821-2407.

R-S Theatrics presents the musical First Lady Suite by Michael John LaChiusa Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 7 p.m., September 5-14. "First Lady Suite provides a witty and poignant glimpse into the private lives of such women as Jackie Kennedy, Eleanor Roosevelt, and Mamie Eisenhower; all were First Ladies during historic times who navigated their public private lives through achievements and tragedy while always being second to their husband's job." Performances take place at the Ivory Theatre, 7620 Michigan Avenue. For more information, visit r-stheatrics.com.

Photo: Zachary Stefaniak

Dramatic License Productions presents The Great American Trailer Park Musical September 4-21. "Directed by St. Louis theatre veteran actor and director, Alan Knoll with musical direction by Stephen Eros and choreography by Zachary Stefaniak, the adults-only musical is the story of a wayward stripper, Pippi, pursued by her marker-sniffing, highly combustible boyfriend. Pippi hides out in the north Florida trailer park Armadillo Acres, home to an agoraphobic housewife, her toll-collector husband and three gossiping girlfriends who also narrate the wacky story. A four-piece, on-stage band accompanies the cast of seven." Performances take place at Dramatic License Theatre located at the upper level of Chesterfield Mall (near Sears and across from Houlihan's Restaurant). For more information, call 636-220-7012 or visit dramaticlicenseproductions.org.

L-R: Melissa Gerth and Wendy R Greenwood

Mustard Seed Theatre presents Human Terrain by Jennifer Blackmer. "This world-premiere explores the treasonous relationship between a US Cultural Advisor and an Iraqi woman during the Iraq War." Performances take place through September 14 at the Fontbonne Fine Arts Theatre, 6800 Wydown Blvd. For more information, call (314) 719-8060 or visit the web site at www.mustardseedtheatre.com.

The University City Public Library presents historical interpreter Angela da Silva in her one-woman show Lila, a Missouri Slave on Wednesday, September 3, at 7 PM. “Lila was one of the millions of faceless, nameless black women whose contributions to the wealth of the nation transcended not only her labor, but her very soul.” The University City Library in on Delmar just east of Big Bend. For more information: ucitylibrary.org.

The Lemp Mansion Comedy-Mystery Dinner Theater presents Zombie Love! (No Biting) September 5-November 2. The Lemp Mansion is at 3322 DeMenil Place. For more information: lempmansion.com.

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 August 25, 2014

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 web site.

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Photo: Peter Wochniak

Stages St. Louis presents the musical Always..Patsy Cline through August 31. "Jacqueline Petroccia and Zoe Vonder Haar star in the return engagement of the show critics called 'exceptional, must see entertainment.' The touching and true story of Country music legend Patsy Cline and her friendship with Texas housewife Louise Seger returns to STAGES this spring. Combining down home country humor, heartache and 27 of Patsy Cline's unforgettable hits such as 'Crazy,' 'Walkin' After Midnight,' and 'Sweet Dreams,' Always... Patsy Cline endures as a piece of genuine Americana." Performances take place at The Playhouse at Westport Plaza. For more information, visit stagesstlouis.org or call 314-821-2407. Read the 88.1 KDHX review!

Curtain's Up Theatre presents the musical Annie, based on the comic strip "Little Orphan Annie," Thursday through Sunday, August 28-31. The performances take place in the Dunham Hall Theater on the SIU-Edwardsville campus. For more information, visit curtainsuptheater.com.

The Bissell Mansion Murder Mystery Dinner Theatre presents A Big Easy Murder through October 26. The Bissell Mansion is at 4426 Randall Place. For more information: bissellmansiontheatre.com

Mustard Seed Theatre presents Human Terrain by Jennifer Blackmer. "This world-premiere explores the treasonous relationship between a US Cultural Advisor and an Iraqi woman during the Iraq War." Performances take place August 29-September 14 at the Fontbonne Fine Arts Theatre, 6800 Wydown Blvd. For more information, call (314) 719-8060 or visit the web site at www.mustardseedtheatre.com.

Rachel Tibbetts and Ellie Schwetye
Photo: Joey Rumpell

Slightly Askew Theatre Ensemble presents Mary Shelly Monster Show by Nick Otten Wednesdays through Saturdays at 8 through August 30. "Was Mary Shelley's most famous novel, Frankenstein, really an autobiography? Is she the creator or the creature?" Performances take place at The Chapel Venue, 6238 Alexander Drive. For more information: slightlyoff.org. Read the 88.1 KDHX review!

Photo: John Lamb

Union Avenue Opera presents Wagner's Siegfried in a condensed and reduced version by English composer Jonathan Dove, Fridays and Saturdays at 8 PM, through August 30. Performances take place at the Union Avenue Christian Church, 733 Union at Enright in the Central West End. The opera is sung in German with projected English text. For more information, visit unionavenueopera.org or call 314-361-2881. Read the 88.1 KDHX review!

Insight Theatre Company presents the musical The Spitfire Grill through August 31. "In this Off-Broadway musical, a feisty parolee named Percy follows a page from an old travel book to a small town in Wisconsin and finds a place for herself working at Hannah's Spitfire Grill. The grill is for sale, but there are no takers for the only eatery in the depressed town, so Percy suggests to Hannah that she raffle it off. New York Magazine called The Spitfire Grill the best musical of 2001.” Performances take place in the Heagney Theatre, 530 East Lockwood on the campus of Nerinx Hall High School in Webster Groves. For more information, call 314-556-1293 or visit insighttheatrecompany.com. Read the 88.1 KDHX review!

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 August 11, 2014

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 web site.

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Photo: Peter Wochniak

Stages St. Louis presents the musical Always..Patsy Cline through August 31. "Jacqueline Petroccia and Zoe Vonder Haar star in the return engagement of the show critics called 'exceptional, must see entertainment.' The touching and true story of Country music legend Patsy Cline and her friendship with Texas housewife Louise Seger returns to STAGES this spring. Combining down home country humor, heartache and 27 of Patsy Cline's unforgettable hits such as 'Crazy,' 'Walkin' After Midnight,' and 'Sweet Dreams,' Always... Patsy Cline endures as a piece of genuine Americana." Performances take place at The Playhouse at Westport Plaza. For more information, visit stagesstlouis.org or call 314-821-2407. Read the 88.1 KDHX review!

The Bissell Mansion Murder Mystery Dinner Theatre presents A Big Easy Murder through October 26. The Bissell Mansion is at 4426 Randall Place. For more information: bissellmansiontheatre.com

The Muny presents the classic musical Hello Dolly Monday through Sunday at 8:15 PM, August 11-17, in the outdoor theatre in Forest Park. "Mrs. Dolly Levi makes her grand Muny return in the classic musical, Hello, Dolly!. Celebrating the 50th anniversary of its Broadway opening, this award-winning musical features the irresistible story of matchmaker extraordinaire Dolly Levi as she “meddles” her way from Yonkers to New York City. Full of familiar tunes and plenty of big dance numbers, Hello, Dolly! promises an evening of classic Muny fun!" For more information, visit muny.org or call 314-361-1900.

Photo: Peter Wochniak

Stages St. Louis presents the musical How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying through August 17. "Big business means big laughs in this delightfully clever lampoon of life on the corporate ladder. A tune-filled comic gem that took Broadway by storm winning both the Tony Award for Best Musical and a Pulitzer Prize, How to Succeed...boasts an exhilarating score by Frank Loesser including “I Believe in You,” “Brotherhood of Man,” and “The Company Way.” Bustling with humor, romance and song, this swingin' 60s send-up of Madison Avenue charts the spectacular rise (in record time!) of an ambitious young window washer to VP of Advertising!" Performances take place in the Robert G. Reim Theatre at the Kirkwood Community Center, 111 South Geyer Road in Kirkwood. For more information, visit stagesstlouis.org or call 314-821-2407. Read the 88.1 KDHX review!

Brass Rail Players present Sondheim's Into the Woods August 15-24. The performances take place at The Turkey Hill Grange, 1375 Illinois Rte. 15 in Belleville, IL. For more information, visit brassrailplayers.org.

St. Louis Shakespeare presents The Liar by David Ives, adapted from the comedy by Pierre Corneille August 15-24. "David Ives (the brilliant mind who penned All In The Timing) offers a fresh, witty and split-your-pants funny translation of Pierre Corneille's 1644 comedy about Dorante, a compulsive liar who masterfully spins an intricate web of lies...now if he could only keep his lies straight!" Performances take at the 560 Music Center in University City. For more information, call 314-361-5664 or visit stlshakespeare.org.

Photo: John Lamb

Max and Louie Productions presents Doug Wright's Quills through August 17. “This wickedly witty, erotically charged play is about the conflict between the imprisoned Marquis de Sade (infamous, irreverent literary bad boy of 18th Century France) and the keepers entrusted with silencing the perverse tales that drip from his ink-laden quill. De Sade's only sword is his pen; his opponents are armed with far deadlier weapons. Quills explores the delicate and often malleable line between morality and personal freedom, while satirizing the hypocrisy and convenience of censorship and sexuality.” Performances take place at the Wool Studio Theatre at the JCC, 2 Millstone Campus Drive. For more information, visit maxandlouie.com. Read the 88.1 KDHX review!

The Midnight Company presents Eric Bogosian's Sex, Drugs, Rock and Roll through August 17. "Bogosian's solo shows, which also include DRINKING IN AMERICA, WAKE UP AND SMELL THE COFFEE and POUNDING NAILS IN THE FLOOR WITH MY FOREHEAD, are scorching social commentaries on the urban and suburban scene - presenting portraits of contemporary men, from the homeless to possession-crazed millionaires to fading rock stars - “scabrously funny ” (Boston Phoenix) and “combustibly funny” (Newsday) monologues exposing their hidden fears, hypocrisy and rage." The performances take place at Herbie's Vintage 72, 405 N. Euclid in the Central West End. A special pre/post-theatre menu will be available before or after the show, cocktails will be available for the performance, and live music will follow Sunday performances. For more information: midnightcompany.com. Read the 88.1 KDHX review!

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 July 7, 2014

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 web site.

Share on Google+

Photo: Peter Wochniak

Stages St. Louis presents the musical Always..Patsy Cline through August 31. "Jacqueline Petroccia and Zoe Vonder Haar star in the return engagement of the show critics called 'exceptional, must see entertainment.' The touching and true story of Country music legend Patsy Cline and her friendship with Texas housewife Louise Seger returns to STAGES this spring. Combining down home country humor, heartache and 27 of Patsy Cline's unforgettable hits such as 'Crazy,' 'Walkin' After Midnight,' and 'Sweet Dreams,' Always... Patsy Cline endures as a piece of genuine Americana." Performances take place at The Playhouse at Westport Plaza. For more information, visit stagesstlouis.org or call 314-821-2407. Read the 88.1 KDHX review!

Whitecliffe Summer Playhouse presents the musical Bye Bye Birdie July 10-13 on the outdoor stage in Whitecliff Park. For more information: www.playhouseproductions.org

The Bissell Mansion Murder Mystery Dinner Theatre presents The Dapper Flappers through July 27. The Bissell Mansion is at 4426 Randall Place. For more information: bissellmansiontheatre.com

Clinton County Showcase presents the musical Disney's Peter Pan Jr. July 10 - 13 Performances take place at the Avon Theater, 525 North 2nd Street Breese IL. For more information, visit ccshowcase.com.

Hard Road Theatre Productions presents the musical Fame Jr. Thursday through Sunday, July 10 - 13. Performances will be held at Highland High School in Highland, IL. For more information: www.hardroad.org.

The Missouri History Museum Theatre in the Museum Series presents Flappers to Smashers: Women, Prohibition, and the 1920s Tuesdays and Thursdays at 2 PM through August 5. "A look at how the 18th Amendment changed women's lives." Performances take place at the Missouri History Museum at Lindell and De Baliviere in Forest Park. For more information, visit mohistory.org.

Photo: Michael J. Lutch

The Muny presents the national tour of the musical The Gershwins' Porgy and Bess nightly at 8:15 PM throuh July 13 in the outdoor theatre in Forest Park. "Winner of the 2012 Tony® Award for Best Revival of a Musical, The Gershwins' Porgy and Bess arrives at The Muny with award-winning members of the Broadway cast in this stunning and stirring new staging. Set in Charleston's fabled Catfish Row, it tells the story of the beautiful Bess as she struggles to break free from her scandalous past, and the only one who can rescue her is the courageous Porgy." For more information, visit muny.org or call 314-361-1900. Read the 88.1 KDHX review!

The Missouri History Museum Theatre in the Museum Series presents Glory the Gargoyle Finds a Home Saturdays at 11:30 AM through August 2. "A play for our youngest visitors. Glory is a gargoyle with big dreams, but she has trouble fitting in. Join her in her search to find a home." Performances take place at the Missouri History Museum at Lindell and De Baliviere in Forest Park. For more information, visit mohistory.org.

St. Louis Shakespeare presents Hamlet July 11 - 20. Performances take place in the Thomas Hunter Theatre at the 560 Music Center in University City. For more information, call 314-361-5664 or visit stlshakespeare.org.

YB Theatre Company presents Josh and Shawn, an original one-act play written and directed by Paul Hibbard, Friday and Saturday at 8 PM and Sunday at 2 PM, July 11 - 13. "A couple who love each other as much as they hate each other. And when an affair comes into play, "Josh and Shawn" shows how perception trumps truth and reality become as subjective as love. A play that is both challenging and funny, “Josh and Shawn” attempts to capture the roller coaster ride that is married life and show how marriage is a beautiful war and love is a blissful prison." Performances take place at The Chapel Venue, 6238 Alexander Drive in Clayton. For more information: www.facebook.com/joshandshawn.

St. Louis Actors' Studio presents the Neil LaBute New Theater Festival, Part 1 July 11 - 20 at the Gaslight Theatre, 358 North Boyle. The festival features professional, new and previously unproduced one-act plays 45 minutes or less in length, chosen from submissions to the festival over the previous year. The plays in Part 1 are Aleks Merilo 's Little Moscow, Steve Karp's Rubbas, Thomas Pierce's Blue Lagoon and Jan Henson Dow's I Want to Show You Something. For more information, call 314-458-2978 or visit stlas.org.

Insight Theatre Company presents the comedy Over the River and Through the Woods July 10 - 20. "This comic-drama hit, which ran Off-Broadway for more than two years, introduces the audience to a tight-knit, Italian-American family who share Sunday dinners in New Jersey. When one family member announces he's moving to Seattle to accept a promotion, he sends his grandparents into a tailspin - and they pull out all the stops to convince him to stay." Performances take place in the Heagney Theatre, 530 East Lockwood on the campus of Nerinx Hall High School in Webster Groves. For more information, call 314-556-1293 or visit insighttheatrecompany.com.

Spotlight Productions presents Peter Pan. Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 PM and Sundays at 2 PM, July 11-20. Performances take place at the Marquette High School Theater, 2351 Clarkson Road, Chesterfield, MO. For more information, visit www.rockwood.k12.mo.us/spotlightproductions.

First Run Theatre presents the comedy Scutter Murphy's Wake by Patrick Conroy Fridays and Saturdays at 8 PM and Sundays at 2 PM, July 11-20. "Scutter Murphy's Wake is the social occasion of the winter in a small Irish village. Mourners from all over the village converge on the home of Scutter's widow to pay their respects, socialize, explore their own fears and finally, get a free drink at Scutter's expense. As drink flows freely, the craic is mighty; music, song, ritual and conversation all lead to mishap. With superstition and alcohol, a strange combination, can this crowd safely get Scutter under the sod?" Performances take place at De Smet Jesuit High School Theatre, 233 N. New Ballas Rd. For more information, call (314) 352-5114 or visit www.firstruntheatre.com.

Photo: Ron Lindsey

Union Avenue Opera presents Verdi's La Traviata Friday and Saturday at 8 PM, July 11-18. "La traviata, one of the most beloved tragedies in opera, tells the story of a worldly courtesan, Violetta, who decides to leave her life of glamour and frivolity behind for the love of one man, Alfredo. Returning to UAO after twelve years, La traviata depicts the ultimate operatic life, one filled with grand parties, grander sacrifices, and some of Verdi's most memorable music, including the drinking song “Libiamo” and Violetta's virtuosic “Sempre libera.” Both longtime opera lovers and first-timers will be captivated by this irresistible classic. La traviata will be directed by Tim Ocel, who received rave review for his direction of 2011's Dead Man Walking at UAO. " Performances take place at the Union Avenue Christian Church, 733 Union at Enright in the Central West End. The opera is sung in Italian with projected English text. For more information, visit unionavenueopera.org or call 314-361-2881. Read the 88.1 KDHX review!

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 June 30, 2014

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 web site.

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Photo: Peter Wochniak

Stages St. Louis presents the musical Always..Patsy Cline through August 31. "Jacqueline Petroccia and Zoe Vonder Haar star in the return engagement of the show critics called 'exceptional, must see entertainment.' The touching and true story of Country music legend Patsy Cline and her friendship with Texas housewife Louise Seger returns to STAGES this spring. Combining down home country humor, heartache and 27 of Patsy Cline's unforgettable hits such as 'Crazy,' 'Walkin' After Midnight,' and 'Sweet Dreams,' Always... Patsy Cline endures as a piece of genuine Americana." Performances take place at The Playhouse at Westport Plaza. For more information, visit stagesstlouis.org or call 314-821-2407. Read the 88.1 KDHX review!

The Bissell Mansion Murder Mystery Dinner Theatre presents The Dapper Flappers through July 27. The Bissell Mansion is at 4426 Randall Place. For more information: bissellmansiontheatre.com

The Missouri History Museum Theatre in the Museum Series presents Flappers to Smashers: Women, Prohibition, and the 1920s Tuesdays and Thursdays at 2 PM through August 5. "A look at how the 18th Amendment changed women's lives." Performances take place at the Missouri History Museum at Lindell and De Baliviere in Forest Park. For more information, visit mohistory.org.

The Missouri History Museum Theatre in the Museum Series presents Glory the Gargoyle Finds a Home Saturdays at 11:30 AM through August 2. "A play for our youngest visitors. Glory is a gargoyle with big dreams, but she has trouble fitting in. Join her in her search to find a home." Performances take place at the Missouri History Museum at Lindell and De Baliviere in Forest Park. For more information, visit mohistory.org.

Photo: Phillip Hamer

The Muny presents the musical Tarzan nightly at 8:15 PM throuh July 2 in the outdoor theatre in Forest Park. "Featuring music and lyrics by Phil Collins, the award-winning Tarzan is based on the smash-hit Disney film. The story follows an infant boy, orphaned and left alone to be raised by a tribe of apes. As an adult, Tarzan's two worlds collide when the sudden arrival of humans, forces him to choose between a “civilized” life with the beautiful Jane and the life he knows and loves." For more information, visit muny.org or call 314-361-1900. Read the 88.1 KDHX review!

Emilie Nevins-Carter

Mariposa Artists presents Emilie Nevins-Carter in When We're Together, with pianist and music director Beckie Menzie, on Thursday, July 3, at 7:30 PM. The performance is directed by Lina Koutrakos and takes place at The Chapel Venue, 6238 Alexander Drive. The admission price includes two drinks and parking is free.  For more information: emilie.brownpapertickets.com.

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 30, 2013

[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 ArtsZipper site.

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The Pub Theater Company presents Bye Bye Liver: The St. Louis Drinking Play, a comedic romp through the joys and pitfalls of The Gateway to the West's favorite pastime. Performances take place on Saturdays at 9 PM at Maggie O'Brien's, 2000 Market Street. For more information, you may call 314-827-4185, email stlouis at byebyeliver.com, or visit byebyeliver.com/stlouis.

The Bissell Mansion Murder Mystery Dinner Theatre presents A Christmas Killing through December 31 and Flaming Saddles January 3 through April 27. The Bissell Mansion is at 4426 Randall Place. For more information: bissellmansiontheatre.com

The Lemp Mansion Comedy-Mystery Dinner Theater presents its Christmas Show through December 31 and Bullets in the Bathtub January 3 through April 27. The Lemp Mansion is at 3322 DeMenil Place. For more information: lempmansion.com

The Midnight Theatre Company presents the St. Louis premiere of Solemn Mockeries, the Notorious True Story of the Great Shakespeare Forgery by Rick Creese Fridays and Saturdays at 8 PM, January 3-18. “Solemn Mockeries tells the true story of William Henry Ireland, who as a teenager in 1795, ignored by his father, detested by his stepmother, despised by his teachers, became an expert Shakespearean forger, producing dead-on facsimiles of the Bard's signatures,and creating his business papers, love letters, a rewritten KING LEAR and the “lost” Shakespeare play VORTIGERN. Taking London by storm, his VORTIGERN by William Shakespeare was scheduled to play the Drury Lane, the finest theatre in London, with a cast of the greatest performers of the day, including John Phillip Kemble, Mrs. Siddons and Mrs. Jordan, with the Duke of Clarence as his benefactor. In SOLEMN MOCKERIES, Ireland has returned to England thirty years later to proudly confess the literary crime of the century -and remember the one, wild, unforgettable staging of his “Shakespeare” play at the Drury.” Performances take place at Stray Dog Theatre's Tower Grove Abbey, 2336 Tennessee. For more information call 314-487-5305 or visit www.midnightcompany.com.

© Amy Boyle 2013

The Fox Theatre presents Leonard Bernstein's West Side Story Friday through Sunday, January 3-5. "More than fifty years ago one musical changed theater forever. Now it's back, and mesmerizing audiences once again. From the first note to the final breath, WEST SIDE STORY soars as the greatest love story of all time. Directed by David Saint, using Tony Award®-winning librettist Arthur Laurents’ Broadway direction, WEST SIDE STORY remains as powerful, poignant and timely as ever." The Fox Theatre is at 517 North Grand in Grand Center. For more information, call 314-534-1678.

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 23, 2013

Happy Holidays to all of you from all of me here at Stage Left!

[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 ArtsZipper site.

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The Pub Theater Company presents Bye Bye Liver: The St. Louis Drinking Play, a comedic romp through the joys and pitfalls of The Gateway to the West's favorite pastime. Performances take place on Saturdays at 9 PM at Maggie O'Brien's, 2000 Market Street. For more information, you may call 314-827-4185, email stlouis at byebyeliver.com, or visit byebyeliver.com/stlouis.

The Bissell Mansion Murder Mystery Dinner Theatre presents A Christmas Killing through December 31. The Bissell Mansion is at 4426 Randall Place. For more information: bissellmansiontheatre.com

The Lemp Mansion Comedy-Mystery Dinner Theater presents its Christmas Show through December 31. The Lemp Mansion is at 3322 DeMenil Place. For more information: lempmansion.com

Photo: Joan Marcus

The Fox Theatre presents Elf the Musical December 17-29. “Based on the beloved 2003 New Line Cinema hit, Elf is the hilarious tale of Buddy, a young orphan child who mistakenly crawls into Santa's bag of gifts and is transported back to the North Pole. Unaware that he is actually human, Buddy's enormous size and poor toy-making abilities cause him to face the truth. With Santa's permission, Buddy embarks on a journey to New York City to find his birth father, discover his true identity, and help New York remember the true meaning of Christmas. This modern day Christmas classic is sure to make everyone embrace their inner Elf.” The Fox Theatre is at 517 North Grand in Grand Center. For more information, call 314-534-1678. Read the 88.1 KDHX review!

©Photo by Jerry Naunheim, Jr.

The Repertory Theatre of St. Louis presents Agatha Christie's The Mousetrap through December 29. “The Grande Dame of suspense weaves a clever mystery that will keep you guessing till the very end. The guests at Monkswell Manor are snowed in with a murderer in their midst. Whodunit? Sergeant Trotter is determined to find out, and his investigation turns up more shocking secrets than anyone could have anticipated. Full of intricate plot twists and shuddering suspense, it is no wonder The Mousetrap has become the world's longest-running stage production.” Performances take place at the Loretto-Hlton Center, 130 Edgar Road in Webster Groves, MO. For more information, call 314-968-4925 or visit repstl.org. Read the 88.1 KDHX review!

©Photo by Eric Woolsey

The Rep's Imaginary Theatre Company presents The Velveteen Rabbit by Kim Esop Wylie with music and lyrics by Joe Dreyer through December 23. “ Based on Margery Williams' famed literary classic, The Velveteen Rabbit tells the story of a little boy and his stuffed bunny who wonders what it means to be “real.” After years of adventure and devotion, the bunny becomes a truly beloved friend and is magically transformed into a real woodland rabbit. Join us this holiday season and share in a heartwarming musical tale that celebrates the rewards of loyalty and the wonderful, surprising power of love.” Performances take place at Heagney Theatre at Nerinx Hall High School, 530 East Lockwood Avenue in Webster Groves. For more information: repst.org or call (314) 968-4925.Read the 88.1 KDHX review!

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.

Christmas rapping

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As you can tell from my theatre calendar, this is the week when some local groups are opening their Christmas presents for you. What are critics saying about them? Read on.

The closest thing to a traditional Christmas show right now is surely Black Nativity at The Black Rep. A free adaptation of and expansion upon the Langston Hughes classic of the same name, Black Nativity is really two shows in one, as Steve Callahan notes in his review for 88.1 KDHX. "The first half," he writes, "is almost an oratorio on the birth of Jesus. The stage is constantly full of bright movement and dance as we see Mary and Joseph on their familiar journey...The songs are a vivid patchwork of styles—from Handel's 'Joy to the World' to vibrant African folk-songs to a wonderful Reggae version of the 'Late-Night Shepherd's Blues' in which a shepherd bemoans that his woman done left him...The second half of the evening is probably the best Christmas cabaret you'll ever see."

Post-Dispatch critic Judy Newmark mostly agrees. "If your family enjoys entertainment at this time of the year," she writes, "consider the Black Rep for a show at once traditional and fresh." Black Nativity runs through December 22nd at the Black Rep's new home at the intimate (230 seat) Emerson Performance Center on the campus of Harris-Stowe State University. For more information: theblackrep.org.

Over at Clayton Community Theatre they're observing the holidays not with a big celebration but rather with Room at the Inn, a drama by local playwright Steve Pokin that gets back to the real roots of the season, when the winter solstice was a time to celebrate fellowship and push back the darkness—both literal and metaphorical. "It's Christmas Eve," reads the synopsis from First Run Theatre's premiere of the show back in 2008, "and a deadly winter storm has slammed the Chicago area. Roads are closed and the wind chill is on the far side of zero. Only Jake, the volunteer site manager, and one other church volunteer are able to make it to the homeless shelter. Nevertheless, the bus carrying the 40 homeless 'guests' arrives. There is no dinner, the person supposed to deliver it is probably in a ditch off an icy road. Room at the Inn is about the struggle to make it through this one night, despite assorted challenges and the threat of violence."

"The writer shows a solid ability to present these homeless characters as mostly dignified people who have ended up on the wrong side of fortune," wrote Mark Bretz in a Ladue News review of that first production. "The play is admirable," wrote Dennis Brown in the Riverfront Times back then, "both in its intent and the way it skirts polemics." Performances are this Friday and Saturday at 8 and Sunday at 2 PM at the Washington University South Campus Theatre. For more information, call 314-721-9228 or visit placeseveryone.org.

Photo: John Lamb

At pretty much the other end of the spectrum is Stray Dog Theatre's The Butterfingers Angel, Mary and Joseph, Herod The Nut And The Slaughter Of 12 Hit Carols In A Pear Tree, which runs through the 21st. The company's web site describes the show as a "touching, funny, and highly imaginative retelling of the Christmas story complete with talking animals, a feminist-leaning Mary, a jealous Joseph, a fast-talking sheep, and one loud-mouthed overbearing tree. Created by one of America's major dramatists, this Christmas cartoon mixed with psychological realism brings new relevance to its timeless subject."

That "major dramatist" is William Gibson, best known for The Miracle Worker, the oft-seen play about the young Helen Keller and her teacher, Annie Sullivan. Written in 1975, Butterfingers Angel has gotten good notices is earlier productions, including a one in Washington, D.C. in 2008 that moved Washington Post critic Nelson Pressley to praise the non-comic aspects of the script. "The dramatic passages," he wrote, "are actually quite good, right down to an unexpected image of sacrifice near the climax. Slipperier by far are Gibson's lightness and gentle humanity -- the butterfingers bits."

The Stray Dog production has gotten its share of praise as well. Over at Vital Voice, for example, Andrea Braun calls it "a lovely holiday gift from one of St. Louis's consistently finest and most popular theatre companies" "If you're looking to take tradition in a somewhat non-traditional direction this holiday season," writes Laura Kyro at 88.1 KDHX, "try Stray Dog's 'The Butterfingers Angel'." Performances take place at Tower Grove Abbey, a church which is now Stray Dog's Home. The stained glass should provide a nice visual backdrop for this left-of-center look at Christmas legends. For more information: straydogtheatre.org.

On an even less traditional note, the two major murder mystery dinner theatre companies in town are observing the holidays in their own way. The Bissell Mansion on the near north side presents A Christmas Killing through the 31st while down on the south side the Lemp Mansion hosts its annual Christmas Show through the end of the year. For more information on the former, check out bissellmansiontheatre.com; for the latter, it's lempmansion.com.