Chuck's St. Louis Theatre Choices for the weekend of October 9, 2015

As always, the choices are purely my personal opinion. Take with a grain (or a shaker) of salt.

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New This Week:

Maxine Linehan

The Presenters Dolan present Maxine Linehan in An Immigrant's Story on Friday and Saturday, October 9 and 10, at 8 PM as part of the Gaslight Cabaret Festival. "A singer and performer as likable as she is talented, Maxine Linehan's show is about leaving Ireland over a decade ago and a new life in America. Songs of Ireland, songs of America, the kind of songs and stories that have become our cultural history. Your or your ancestors came here from somewhere, and this is your story too." The performance takes place at the Gaslight Theater, 358 North Boyle. For more information: gaslightcabaretfestival.com.

My take: Having just returned from a trip to Ireland myself, I'm interested to see what Ms. Linehan has to say about the experience of emigrating here. If the trailers at the Gaslight Cabaret Festival web site are any indication, Ms. Linehan is equally comfortable with both Irish folk material and numbers from the Great American Songbook. The show will be lively at the very least; Ms. Linehan's opening act will be a trope of Irish folk dancers from the Clarkson School of Irish Dance.

St. Louis University Theatre presents Trash Macbeth through October 11. "Based on Shakespeare's text, this semi-devised, ensemble-built, original content piece considers the 1950's housewife while asking the question: How can we re-purpose waste into something beautiful? Performed by six actors with all costume, scenic and prop elements created from found, not purchased, materials." Performances take place in Xavier Hall, 3373 West Pine Mall. For more information, call (314) 977-2998 or visit slumarketplace.slu.edu.

My take: In a review due to be published this weekend, 88.1 KDHX reviewer Sarah Richardson says that "[t]he fates that are spun and the lives unwound in this tragedy reach astounding dramatic heights thanks to a marvelous alchemy of all the elements of theatre: design, staging, performance, and text...A delicious, theatrical nightmare par excellence." Sometimes a university setting is the only place really risky theatre can take place, and St. Louis University has demonstrated in the past that it's not afraid to take chances.

Held Over:

Black and Blue
Photo: ProPhotoSTL

Gitana Productions presents Black and Blue by by Lee Patton Chiles with music by Tbeats Entertainment at 7 p.m. on Friday, October 9. "An original play of hope and healing, exploring the assumptions that all young black men are dangerous, and that all cops are bad." Performances take place at St. Louis Community College at Meramec located at 11333 Big Bend Rd. "An original play of hope and healing, exploring the assumptions that all young black men are dangerous, and that all cops are bad." For more information: www.gitana-inc.org.

My take: The events in Ferguson, Missouri, last year resonated throughout the nation. Originally presented back in June, this drama by St. Louis playwright Lee Patton Chiles is, in the words of KDHX theatre reviewer Tina Farmer, "a thought provoking, well-acted and strongly worded play that stirs discussion in an attempt to create a fuller, more varied and nuanced understanding of racial conflict, not only in St. Louis but across America." Theatre can educate, enlighten, and provoke as well as entertain, and it looks like Gitana has a production here that does all three.

Valhalla Cemetery and The Hawthorne Players present Voices Of Valhalla: A Hayride Through History through October 10. Hayrides through Valhalla Cemetery depart every fifteen minutes beginning at 6:30 each evening as members of the Hawthorne Players portray some of the noted locals buried in Valhalla. Valhalla Cemetery is located at 7600 St. Charles Rock Road. For more information, visit hawthorneplayers.com.

My take: I had a chance to both see and appear in this annual event for the first time last year, and I must say that I was impressed by the professionalism of both the script (assembled by director Larry Marsh from historical sources) and the quality of the performances. Here's how it works: you pile on a hay wagon and are driven through historic Valhalla Cemetery. At various points during the ride, the wagon stops and an actor portraying a historical figure buried at Valhalla steps out of the darkness and delivers a monolog on his or her life. They can be comic, tragic, or a combination of the two, but they're always well researched and informative.

Chuck's Choices for the weekend of August 7, 2015

As always, the choices are purely my personal opinion. Take with a grain (or a shaker) of salt.

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New This Week:

Carousel

The Hawthorne Players present the Rodgers and Hammerstein musical Carousel through August 9. "Carousel tells the story of a swaggering, carefree carnival barker, Billy Bigelow, who falls in love with a mill worker, Julie Jordan. Years after he dies tragically, Billy is given a chance to return for a day to try to brighten the life of his unhappy 15-year-old daughter Louise. He watches as the school principal inspires Louise by assuring her that so long as she has hope in her heart, she'll never walk alone." The performances take place at the Florissant Civic Center Theatre at Parker and Waterford in Florissant, MO. For more information, call 921-5678 or visit hawthorneplayers.com.

My take: Carousel surprised many theatergoers when it made its Broadway premiere on April 19th, 1945. Rogers and Hammerstein's last show, Oklahoma!, was still playing across the street, and the contrast must have been startling. Based on Molnar's downbeat melodrama Liliom from two decades earlier, Carousel's fantasy elements and bittersweet ending were quite a change from the realism and rousing finale of its predecessor. The show had a decent run - 890 performances - and was an immediate hit with the critics. Which makes it only right that the Hawthorne production is such a hit with our own Steve Callahan at KDHX. "This is a charming production," he writes, "deftly directed by Adam Grun, and it’s brim full of the very best things that community theater can offer...Danny Grumich, in the central role of Billy, will simply knock your socks off! He gives a performance of the very highest professional caliber." Hawthorne has a long track record of producing community theatre with a high professional gloss; I've done a couple of shows there myself and have been impressed by the production quality. And the theatre at the Florissant Civic Center is a good, comfortable space with decent acoustics.

The Further Adventures of Hedda Gabler
Photo: Kim Carlson

St. Louis Shakespeare presents The Further Adventures of Hedda Gabler by Jeff Whitty Thursdays at 7:30 p.m., Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m., and Sundays at 2 p.m., through August 9. "This play follows Hedda into the hereafter. There, she encounters Mammy of "Gone With the Wind" fame, and they join forces. Along the way, they encounter starlets, leading ladies, and other madwomen locked in the literary attic, in this darkly funny show." Performances take place at the Ivory Theatre, 7620 Michigan in the Carondelet neighborhood. For more information, call 314-361-5664 or visit stlshakespeare.org.

My take: From the author of the smart and funny book for the musical Avenue Q comes this ingenious theatrical in-joke. One of the stage's most famous suicides, Hedda Gabler, wakes from her offstage shooting to a literary and theatrical afterlife in which famous (and not-so-famous) fictional characters endlessly relive the tropes their creators designed for them. Refusing to simply repeat the fate Ibsen created for her, she goes off on a voyage of self-discovery, assisted by Mammy from Gone With the Wind and a pair of stereotypically gay characters from 1968 who could be (but aren't) from Boys in the Band or Staircase. As I note in my capsule review for OnSTL.com, it's "a clever concept with plenty of laughs along the way." My colleague Tina Farmer at KDHX agrees, calling it "riotously fun and delivered with the sharp, crisp attitude the company does so well." And the Ivory Theatre, now under new management, it great space for live theatre, with plenty of parking, comfortable seats, and some decent restaurants within easy walking distance.

Rigoletto
Photo: John Lamb

Union Avenue Opera presents Verdi's Rigoletto Fridays and Saturdays at 8 PM, July 31 - August 8. "A tale of innocence lost, Rigoletto is Verdi's tense and brutal tale of a deformed court jester caught in a snare of corruption, lechery, and vengeance. It is a chilling whirlwind of revenge: Rigoletto, jester to the Duke of Mantua, cannot protect the person he most loves from the person he most loathes. His beloved daughter Gilda falls in love with the hated Duke and eventually sacrifices her life to save the Duke from the assassin hired by her father. This iconic melodrama boasts an action-packed plot and a parade of brilliant music, including the Duke's boastful "La donna è mobile," Rigoletto's "Cortigiani, vil razza dannata," and Gilda's stunning "Caro nome."" 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.

My take: I sometimes find myself the odd man out among my fellow critics with some opera productions, but not this time. Everybody basically agrees: Union Avenue has once again done very well indeed by Verdi. As I note in my review for KDHX, from the ominous brass fanfares that open the prelude to Rigoletto's final despairing howl of "La maledizione" ("the curse"), Tim Ocel's knowing direction drives this "Rigoletto" to its tragic conclusion with the relentless energy of a runaway train. Jordan Shanahan's performance in the title role is just riveting: powerfully sing and incisively acted. This is definitely a "must see."

Held Over:

The cast of Anything Goes
Photo: Peter Wochniak

Stages St. Louis presents Cole Porter's Anything Goes through August 16. "Set sail on the S. S. American with a zany group of travelers, bound from New York to merry old England, where gangsters, socialites, and arrow-collar lads collide in a true tap-sensation from a by-gone era when travel was still fun and as unpredictable as the weather. There'll be laughs a-plenty set to a raucous and romantic Cole Porter score. Enjoy meltingly romantic melodies as "I Get A Kick Out Of You," "It's De-Lovely," "Easy To Love," "You're The Top," and "Anything Goes," that will inspire an uproarious and tune-filled trip across the Atlantic where ANYTHING GOES!" 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.

My take: Porter's hit-laden score and the breezy (and often revised book) combine for great fun, and it looks like Stages is doing it justice. "Every song, every character, every step, every gesture, every tiny comic bit is perfect," writes Steve Callahan at KDHX. "Every single moment of this show is a delight." Having finally had a chance to see it myself, I concur. The original Billy Crocker has been replaced by Brent Michael Diroma, who is a very talented comic actor with a lovely crooner's light baritone/tenor. Definitely worth seeing.

St. Louis theatre calendar for the week of July 27, 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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Anything Goes

Stages St. Louis presents Cole Porter's Anything Goes through August 16. "Set sail on the S. S. American with a zany group of travelers, bound from New York to merry old England, where gangsters, socialites, and arrow-collar lads collide in a true tap-sensation from a by-gone era when travel was still fun and as unpredictable as the weather. There'll be laughs a-plenty set to a raucous and romantic Cole Porter score. Enjoy meltingly romantic melodies as "I Get A Kick Out Of You," "It's De-Lovely," "Easy To Love," "You're The Top," and "Anything Goes," that will inspire an uproarious and tune-filled trip across the Atlantic where ANYTHING GOES!" 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!

The Muny presents Beauty and the Beast nightly at 8:15 PM, opening on Wednesday, July 29 and running through Friday, August 7, in the outdoor theatre in Forest Park. "'Be Our Guest' for the magical family extravaganza, Disney's Beauty and The Beast, returning to The Muny for 10 amazing performances. This enchanting, musical tells the classic love story set to the Academy Award® winning music of Alan Menken and Tim Rice. Based on the 1991 hit animated film, Disney's Beauty and The Beast has become one of the most popular musicals in the world. For 97 years, The Muny 'family show' has been one of the greatest St. Louis traditions, and our production of this Disney classic show will thrill you and your family!" For more information, visit muny.org or call 314-361-1900. Read the 88.1 KDHX review!

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.

The Randy Dandies presents Burlesque Bingo on Thursdays from 9 to 11 p.m. "As anyone who frequents the bingo parlors knows, the facade of genteel decorum drops once the first game is won. The first cry of "Bingo!" fires up the blood something fierce, and all bets are off from that point forward. Now, imagine what would happen if you throw semi-clad young women into the mix - Ok, now stop imagining. The Randy Dandies present Burlesque Bingo from 9pm to 11:30 pm on Thursdays, and and it promises all the thrills of cutthroat bingo, with the added titillation of local burlesque performers and specialty variety acts plus silly prizes." The show takes place at Meyer's Grove, 4510 Manchester in the Grove neighborhood. For more information: therandydandies.com.

Carousel

The Hawthorne Players present the Rodgers and Hammerstein musical Carousel July 31 - August 9. "Carousel tells the story of a swaggering, carefree carnival barker, Billy Bigelow, who falls in love with a mill worker, Julie Jordan. Years after he dies tragically, Billy is given a chance to return for a day to try to brighten the life of his unhappy 15-year-old daughter Louise. He watches as the school principal inspires Louise by assuring her that so long as she has hope in her heart, she'll never walk alone." The performances take place at the Florissant Civic Center Theatre at Parker and Waterford in Florissant, MO. For more information, call 921-5678 or visit hawthorneplayers.com.

The Further Adventures of Hedda Gabler
Photo: Kim Carlson

St. Louis Shakespeare presents The Further Adventures of Hedda Gabler by Jeff Whitty Thursdays at 7:30 p.m., Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m., and Sundays at 2 p.m., July 31 - August 9. "This play follows Hedda into the hereafter. There, she encounters Mammy of "Gone With the Wind" fame, and they join forces. Along the way, they encounter starlets, leading ladies, and other madwomen locked in the literary attic, in this darkly funny show." Performances take place at the Ivory Theatre, 7620 Michigan in the Carondelet neighborhood. For more information, call 314-361-5664 or visit stlshakespeare.org.

The Bissell Mansion Murder Mystery Dinner Theatre presents Get “Hitched” To A Redneck Or Die July 31 - October 31. The Bissell Mansion is at 4426 Randall Place. For more information: bissellmansiontheatre.com

Take Two Productions presents the musical Legally Blonde through August 1 The show is recommended for mature audiences. Performances take place at Bayless High School Auditorium, 4532 Weber Road in South County. For more information, visit taketwoproductions.org.

Insight Theatre Company presents Ken Ludwig's farce Moon Over Buffalo through August 9. "Moon Over Buffalo centers on George and Charlotte Hay, fading stars of the 1950's who are playing Private Lives and Cyrano De Bergerac in rep in Buffalo, New York. On the brink of a disastrous split-up, they receive word that they might just have one last shot at stardom: Frank Capra is coming to town to see their matinee, and if he likes what he sees, he might cast them in his new film. Unfortunately for George and Charlotte, everything that could go wrong does. As a result, this tribute to "Life in the Theatre" is simply outrageously hilarious!! " 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!

"Deirdre Dear"
Photo: John Lamb

St. Louis Actors' Studio presents the Neil LaBute New Theater Festival, Part 2 through August 2 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 2 are "Kandahar" by Neil LaBute; "Pitch" by Theresa Masters; Marc Pruter; "Homebody" by Gabe Mckinley; "Deirdre Dear" by Norman Yeung; and "There You Are" by Fran Dorf. For more information, call 314-458-2978 or visit stlas.org. Read the 88.1 KDHX review!

Rigoletto

Union Avenue Opera presents Verdi's Rigoletto Fridays and Saturdays at 8 PM, July 31 - August 8. "A tale of innocence lost, Rigoletto is Verdi's tense and brutal tale of a deformed court jester caught in a snare of corruption, lechery, and vengeance. It is a chilling whirlwind of revenge: Rigoletto, jester to the Duke of Mantua, cannot protect the person he most loves from the person he most loathes. His beloved daughter Gilda falls in love with the hated Duke and eventually sacrifices her life to save the Duke from the assassin hired by her father. This iconic melodrama boasts an action-packed plot and a parade of brilliant music, including the Duke's boastful “La donna è mobile,” Rigoletto's “Cortigiani, vil razza dannata,” and Gilda's stunning “Caro nome.”" 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.

Hard Road Theatre Productions presents Shrek the Musical Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. through August 2. Performances will be held at Highland Elementary School Auditorium, 12760 Troxler Avenue in Highland, IL. For more information: www.hardroad.org.

Off Broadway presents Something Sketchy This Way Comes on Saturday, August 1, beginning at 8 p.m. "Six teams, randomly assigned, will have three weeks to write, rehearse and produce three brand new sketches apiece in a sketch comedy competition the likes of which St. Louis has never seen! The show is 18 and up." Off Broadway is at 3509 Lemp. For more information: www.facebook.com/sketchcompetition.

Theatre Nuevo presents This Is Not Funny, a new play directed by Anna Skidis and devised by the cast. Performances take place Thursday through Saturday 8 p.m. and Sunday at 7 p.m., July 30 - August 2. The performances take place at The Chapel, 6238 Alexander Drive. For more information: www.theatrenuevo.com.

Over Due Theatre presents the musical The Wizard of Oz Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 PM and Sundays at 2 PM through August 2. Like so many girls her age, little Dorothy Gale of Kansas dreams of what lies over the rainbow. One day a twister hits her farm and carries her away over the rainbow to another world. Come join Dorothy, the Scarecrow, the Tinman, the Cowardly Lion and Toto as they travel the universe of Dorothy's imagination." Performances take place at the Olivette Community Center, 9723 Grandview Drive, in Olivette, MO. For more information, call 314-210-2959 or visit overduetheatrecompany.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 April 13, 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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Tesseract Theatre Company presents The Age of Bees April 17-28. "It's the year 2098. The bees are gone and the world struggles to keep up with the resulting ecological and economic changes. In the midst of this, we meet Mel, a young woman who has found sanctuary on an agricultural compound, where there's food and safety. She works alongside other girls, also orphans or castoffs. Sarah and Zed, who run the farm, hope that their next child will be a boy; Sarah is at the end of her fertility, however, and, to her dismay, Mel stands next in line to carry children for Zed. Into this uncertain sanctuary steps Jonathan, an independent field researcher who collects samples of plants to forestall additional ecological devastation. Meeting Mel provides a glimmer of other kinds of scientific riches on this compound, and he is determined to take her with him. Zed's history of violence makes any escape a dangerous proposition. Still, there's the hope that something new can grow, that something good can come from the ruined world they struggle to make theirs." Performances take place at the Regional Arts Commission, 6128 Delmar. For more information: tesseracttheatre.org.

St. Louis Actors' Studio presents Yasmina Reza's comedy Art Aprll 17-May 3 at the Gaslight Theatre, 358 North Boyle. "How much would you pay for a white painting? Would it matter who the painter was? Would it be art? One of Marc's best friends, Serge, has just bought a very expensive painting. It's about five feet by four, all white with white diagonal lines. To Marc, the painting is a joke, but Serge insists Marc doesn't have the proper standard to judge the work. Another friend, Ivan, though burdened by his own problems, allows himself to be pulled into this disagreement. Eager to please, Ivan tells Serge he likes the painting. Lines are drawn and these old friends square off over the canvas, using it as an excuse to relentlessly batter one another over various failures. As their arguments become less theoretical and more personal, they border on destroying their friendships. At the breaking point, Serge hands Marc a felt tip pen and dares him: “Go on.” This is where the friendship is finally tested, and the aftermath of action, and its reaction, affirms the power of those bonds." For more information, call 314-458-2978 or visit stlas.org.

The Cockfighter
Photo: John Lamb

The West End Players Guild concludes their 104th season with the drama The Cockfighter Fridays and Saturdays at 8 PM and Sundays at 2 PM, April 10-19. "At once elegant and brutal, this coming-of-age story is set against the savage backdrop of professional cockfighting. The gift of a fighting bird of his own sets a young boy on a journey to adulthood and to choices that will change him - and his family - forever. Based on the novel by acclaimed southern author Frank Manley and adapted for the stage by Vincent Murphy, it is another St. Louis premiere." There will also be a show on Thursday, April 16, at 8 PM and the playwright will conduct a special talkback session with the audience after the April 18th performance. Performances take place at the Union Avenue Christian Church, 733 North Union at Enright in the Central West End. For more information, call 314-367-0025 or visit www.westendplayers.org. Read the 88.1 KDHX review!

The Hawthorne Players present the Beth Henley's Crimes of the Heart April 17-26. "Crimes of the Heart is filled with humanity and humor as it examines the plight of three young Mississippi sisters betrayed by their passions. In the end, the play is the story of how its young characters escape the past and seize the future-but the telling is so true and touching and consistently hilarious that it will linger in the mind long after the curtain has descended. This winner of the 1981 Pulitzer Prize will be directed by Ken Clark, who says, "If you think your family has issues, wait until you visit the Magrath household. As my grandmother once said, Southern hospitality can't fix crazy."" The performances take place at the Florissant Civic Center Theatre at Parker and Waterford in Florissant, MO. For more information, call 921-5678 or visit hawthorneplayers.com.

St. Louis Community College at Forest Park presents Discipline 17/2 April 16-19. This is the premiere of a play from Bob Mielke (milky), a poet, author and professor of English as well as a longtime fan of the Sun Ra Arkestra which has a ever-changing, flexible lineup. Performances take place in the Bastian Theatre on the campus at 5600 Oakland. For more information: stlcc.edu/FP under Bastian Theatre or call 314-644-9100.

Family Musical Theater presents the Stephen Sondheim musical A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum April 17-28 at the Ivory Theatre, 7622 Michigan. For more information, visit familymusical.org or call 314-571-9579.

Peabody Opera House presents the I Love Lucy Live On Stage Friday through Sunday, April 17-19. "It's 1952 and you are a member of the studio audience awaiting the filming of two hilarious and oh-so-familiar I LOVE LUCY® episodes. Imagine stepping back in time onto the Desilu Playhouse soundstage where a charming host entertains and enlightens you to the behind-the-scenes filming process, the 1950s hi-fidelity technology and this brand-new thing called “television.” The episodes begin and you witness, firsthand, the side-splitting antics of that crazy redhead in the Ricardo's New York apartment and thrill to the Cuban sounds of “The Ricky Ricardo Orchestra” at the famed Tropicana Nightclub. In-between scenes? The Crystaltone Singers perform live advertising jingles of the show's newest sponsors in perfect 50s style harmony." For more information, visit peabodyoperahouse.com or call 314-622-5420.

Shaulee Cook

Mustard Seed Theatre presents An Invitation Out by Shaulee Cook April 17-May 3. "In this world-premiere comedy of manners, a young man searches for “truth” while living in virtual reality and explores the “reality” of life offline." Performances take place 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.

Over Due Theatre presents the musical Little Shop of Horrors Fridays and Saturdays at 8 PM and Sundays at 2 PM, through April 19. Performances take place at the Olivette Community Center, 9723 Grandview Drive, in Olivette, MO. For more information, call 314-210-2959 or visit overduetheatrecompany.com.

The Lemp Mansion Comedy-Mystery Dinner Theater presents Muuurder in Maaaybury through April 25. The Lemp Mansion is at 3322 DeMenil Place. For more information: lempmansion.com.

The Mystery of Edwin Drood
Photo: John Lamb

Stray Dog Theatre presents the musical The Mystery of Edwin Drood by Rupert Holmes Thursdays through Saturdays at 8 PM through April 18. "This raucous show within a show kicks off when a hilariously loony Victorian musical troupe 'puts on' its flamboyant rendition of an unfinished Charles Dickens mystery. Each performance ends differently depending on how the audience chooses to finish the story that Dickens didn't!" Performances take place at The Tower Grove Abbey, 2336 Tennessee. For more information, visit straydogtheatre.org or call 314-865-1995. Read the 88.1 KDHX review!

Lindenwood University presents Shakespeare's Pericles, Prince of Tyre April 17-25. "This action-packed production is a tempest-tossed hero's quest-a magical mystery tour spanning decades and continents, culminating in one of the most joyous reunions in the Shakespearean canon. Featuring pirates, goddesses, jousting knights, and a lost princess, Pericles, Prince of Tyre is a theatrical journey you don't want to miss!" Performances take place at the J. Scheidegger Center for the Arts on the Lindenwood campus in St. Charles, MO. For more information, call 636-949-4433 or visit lindenwood.edu/center.

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

The Monroe Actors Stage Company presents Prescription Murder Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 and Sundays at 2:30 p.m., through Aprl 19, in the Historic Capitol Theatre in downtown Waterloo, Illinois. For more information, visit www.masctheatre.org or call 618-939-7469.

The Rime of the Ancient Mariner
Photo: ProPhotoSTL

Upstream Theater presents The Rime of the Ancient Mariner by Samuel Taylor Coleridge adapted for the stage and directed by Patrick Siler with live music composed and performed by Sleepy Kitty, through April 19. Performances take place at the Kranzberg Arts Center, 501 North Grand in Grand Center. For more information, including show times: upstreamtheater.org. Read the 88.1 KDHX review!

St. Louis Community College at Florissant Valley presents Steel Magnolias April 17-25. Performances take place in the Fisher Theatre on the campus at 3400 Pershall Road. For more information: stlcc.edu/FV under Fischer Theatre or call 314-644-5522.

Clinton County Showcase presents The Sting through April 19. “This show takes place in Chicago many years ago in a world of small-time hustlers and their girls, their money nonexistent but their ingenuity abundant. Johnny Hooker joins a friend in a successful con of a 'runner.' Unfortunately for them, the runner works for a powerful, vindictive rackets boss, Doyle Lonnegan, who is infuriated and arranges the killing of Johnny's friend. Hoping to avenge this senseless murder, Johnny enlists the aid of the master con man Henry Gondorf. Together they decide to try the big con called 'The Wire.'” Performances take place at the Avon Theater, 525 North 2nd Street Breese IL. For more information, visit ccshowcase.com.

Telegraph
Photo: Whitney Curtis

The Performing Arts Department at Washington University presents Telegraph by Will Jacobs, winner of the 2014 A.E. Hotchner New Play Festival, April 16-19. "A peculiar telegraph operator, Mr. Rivers, looks for lost love in the lyricism of electrical impulse. His search is disrupted by the arrival of the very determined Mrs. Emily Stone, who brings light to the darkened corners of his Pennsylvania home. Together, they grapple with love and laughter within the abstractions of language and the rhythms of dots and dashes. Winner of the 2014 A.E Hotchner Playwriting Competition." The performances take place in the A.E. Hotchner Studio Theater in the Mallinckrodt Student Center on the Washington University campus. For more information, call 314-935-6543 or visit pad.artsci.wustl.edu.

St. Louis Community College at Meramec presents Christopher Marlowe's The Tragedy of Doctor Faustus Wednesday through Sunday, April 15-18. Performances take place in the theatre on the campus at 11333 Big Bend Road. For more information, call 314-984-7500.

Curtain's Up Theatre presents the courtroom drama Twelve Angry Men April 17-19. Performances take place at the Alfresco Art Center, 2401 Delmar in Granite City, IL. For more information, visit curtainsuptheater.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 November 3, 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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Kirkwood Theatre Guild presents The 39 Steps, the comic stage adaptation of the Hitchcock thriller, November 7-16. Performances take place in the Robert G. Reim Theatre of the Kirkwood Community Center, 111 South Geyer Road. For more information, call 314-821-9956 or visit ktg-onstage.org.

Max and Louie Productions presents the US premier of the comedy Chancers through November 16. "Aiden's bright and fully stocked store has no customers, a vagrant at the doorstep, and his family living in the back room while they rent their home to strangers. Pre-recession, Aiden expanded his empire and store count and spared no expense. After the foreclosures, the construction workers that once filled his stores were laid off, and no longer paying customers. The skeleton of the closed hot food bar hulks in the corner as daily reminder to Aiden that his store is slowly slipping away. Beyond the brilliant colors and bright lights of the store, we see the fields and the town of Kildare, with its rich horse racing history and plenty of old money. But the view of the town as a quaint village is a thing of the past in a global economy. Tesco has permanently joined the landscape of rolling fields and high street shopping and Aiden is in denial of his certain future." Performances take place at the Kranzberg Arts Center, 501 North Grand in Grand Center. For more information, visit maxandlouie.com.

St. Louis Community College at Florissant Valley Children's Theatre presents Debbie Lannen's I'm Sorry November 7-9. Performances take place in the Fisher Theatre on the campus at 3400 Pershall Road. For more information, call 314-644-5522.

Joan Curto

The Presenters Dolan present Joan Curto Sings Cole Porter on Saturday, November 8, at 8 PM as part of the Gaslight Cabaret Festival. "One of Chicagos's top cabaret performers, Joan Curto makes her St. Louis debut in a show celebrating the songs of Cole Porter, which has been selling out houses in in Chicago, New York and Michigan. Most recently, Joan was the headliner at the Cole Porter Festival in Peru, Indiana - Cole Porter's hometown. Known for her thoughtful interpretations and powerful vocals, Joan will feature classic Porter tunes and a few of his lesser known songs - some of the cleverest, funniest, and most romantic songs ever written. " The performance takes place at the Gaslight Theater, 358 North Boyle. For more information: gaslightcabaretfestival.com.

Photo: Jerry Naunheim, Jr.

The Repertory Theatre of St. Louis presents A Kid Like Jake October 29-November 16. "Alexandra and Greg are stressed. Test scores, campus visits and entrance interviews for their son are almost too much to handle. Especially since this prep isn't for college, it's just part of the process of winning a place in one of Manhattan's exclusive kindergarten programs. Four-year-old Jake's intelligence has him in the running for a top school, but when the focus turns to his imagination and affection for dress-up, acceptance takes on a whole new meaning." Performances take place in the studio theatre at the Loretto-Hlton Center, 130 Edgar Road in Webster Groves, MO. For more information, call 314-968-4925 or visit repstl.org.

Photo: Jerry Naunheim, Jr.

The Repertory Theatre of St. Louis presents Shakespeare's A Midsummer Night's Dream through November 9. "Magic, merriment and romance all unite in one of Shakespeare's most beloved and imaginative comedies. Starry-eyed lovers escape to an enchanted forest full of lust and bewitchment, where mischievous fairies play tricks, bumbling actors rehearse for a love-play and couples pursue one another, all under the light of the moon." 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!

The Presenters Dolan present Joe Dreyer and Rosemary Watts: Mixing it Up on Thursday, November 6, at 8 PM as part of the Gaslight Cabaret Festival. " Rosemary Watts and Joe Dreyer premier their new show "Mixing It Up" at the Gaslight Cabaret Festival. Standards from 20's through the 60's that they do so well. The first couple of St. Louis cabaret brings a brand new show to the Gaslight stage, and their large and fashionable following. " The performance takes place at the Gaslight Theater, 358 North Boyle. For more information: gaslightcabaretfestival.com.

The Looking Glass Playhouse presents the comedy The Mouse That Roared Thursdays through Sundays, November 6-16. Performances take place at 301 West St. Louis Street in Lebanon, Ill. For more information, visit www.lookingglassplayhouse.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

Winter Opera St. Louis presents Mozart's Le Nozze di Figaro (The Marriage of Figaro) Friday at 8 PM and Sunday at 3 PM, November 7 and 9. Performances take place at The Skip Viragh Center for the Arts at Chaminade College Preparatory School, 425 S. Lindbergh. The opera is sung in Italian with project English supertitles. For more information, visit winteroperastl.org.

The Hawthorne Players present the David Lindsay-Abaire's drama Rabbit Hole November 7-16. The performances take place at the Florissant Civic Center Theatre at Parker and Waterford in Florissant, MO. For more information, call 921-5678 or visit hawthorneplayers.com.

Dramatic License Productions presents Rembrandt's Gift through November 9. "A New York couple is about to be evicted because of his hoarding. A marriage is in jeopardy and something has to give. Suddenly, Rembrandt Van Rijn, the famous Dutch painter steps through the mirror to save the day, or does he save himself? A magical and romantic "dramedy" about love, marriage, aging, passion and ART. Don't miss the regional premiere of Tina Howe's fantastical treat!" 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. Read the 88.1 KDHX review!

Act Two Theatre presents the bluegrass gospel musical Smoke on the Mountain November 7-16 in the St. Peters Cultural Arts Centre at 1 St Peters Centre Blvd, St. Peters, MO 63376. "Smoke on the Mountain tells the story of a Saturday Night Gospel Sing at a country church in North Carolina's Smoky Mountains in 1938. The show features two dozen rousing bluegrass songs played and sung by the Sanders Family, a traveling group making its return to performing after a five-year hiatus. Between songs, each family member “witnesses" - telling a story about an important event in their life. Though they try to appear perfect in the eyes of a congregation who wants to be inspired by their songs, one thing after another goes awry and they reveal their true - and hilariously imperfect - natures. By the evening's end, the Sanders family has endeared themselves to us by revealing their weaknesses and allowing us to share in their triumphs." For more information: act2theater.com.

First Run Theatre presents the 2014 Spectrum One-Act Play Festival Fridays and Saturdays at 8 PM and Sundays at 2 PM, November 7-16. This year's plays are No Other Gods Before Me by Richard Newman; Night of the Armadillo by Jason Slavik; Bang by Richard Newman; Miss Nancy's Playhouse by Mario Farwell; The Jungfrau by David Hawley; and The Adventures of BunnyMan by Mario Farwell. Performances take place at Southampton Presbyterian Church, 4716 Macklind. For more information, call (314) 352-5114 or visit www.firstruntheatre.com.

The Boo Cat Club presents Tennessee Williams' Stairs to the Roof November 6 through 23. "Benjamin Murphy stages a one-man rebellion against the clock, the monotony of an eight-to-five job and the dehumanizing forces of an increasing mechanized and commercial society. Ben takes us on a series of fantastic adventures that culminate in an escape from the mundane...taking us up his stairs to the roof to a better, more Utopian world." The Boo Cat Club is at 812 Union in the Central West End. For more information: brownpapertickets.com.

COCA presents Susanna Hamnet: Nearly Lear Saturday, November 8, at 5 p.m. “Welcome to a King Lear that is profoundly accessible and really funny! Actress Susanna Hamnett braves the most savage storm in English literature with breathtaking hilarity and heartache, honoring the beautiful language of Lear while taking a bit of poetic license. Recommended for ages 12 and up." COCA is at 524 Trinity in University City. For more information, call (314) 725-6555 or visit www.cocastl.org.

The Presenters Dolan present Beckie Menzie and Tom Michael: That 60s Show on Friday, November 7, at 8 PM as part of the Gaslight Cabaret Festival. "The sixties are back! Beckie Menzie & Tom Michael celebrate the decade that forever revolutionized popular music. From the idyllic early Motown sound and British invasion to the angst of Woodstock, "That 60's Show" will feature songs by many of the decades favorite performers including The Beatles, Simon & Garfunkle, The Everly Brothers, Elvis Presley, Petula Clark and many more, all done in Menzie & Michael's unique award-winning style." The performance takes place at the Gaslight Theater, 358 North Boyle. For more information: gaslightcabaretfestival.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.

Chuck's theatre choices for the weekend of October 10, 2014

As always, the choices are purely my personal opinion. Take with a grain (or a shaker) of salt.

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New This Week:

Photo: Jill Ritter Lindberg

New Line Theatre presents the St. Louis premiere of the musical Bonnie and Clyde Thursdays through Saturdays at 8 PM through October 25. The show is "a kind of horror Romeo and Juliet story, exploring the culture that created this infamous couple and their two-year murder spree, the moral ambiguity of Prohibition and the Great Depression, and a national cult of celebrity that turned these damaged, dangerous kids into national folk heroes, in their twisted quest for dignity in a time of national humiliation. Bloomberg News called the show, 'a pop romance about the American nightmare.' Today, in this time of economic distress in America, this story seems more relevant than ever. Not only could it happen again; it does." Performances take place at the Washington University South Campus Theatre, 6501 Clayton Road. For more information, visit the web site or call 314-534-1111.

My take: Frank Wildhorn, the composer of Bonnie and Clyde, is nothing if not eclectic when it comes to his choice of material. His shows include The Scarlet Pimpernel, The Civil War, and Wonderland: Alice's New Musical Adventure. Even if this were not a much-praised production, it would be worth seeing for Wildhorn's contribution alone. But, has it happens, the show has gotten plenty of good reviews locally. Writing for broadwayworld.com, Chris Gibson calls it "brilliant." "You'll be blown away by how engaging the story and characters are," he says, "and you'll be humming the score as you walk out the doors because it's just so incredibly and infectiously catchy." The St. Louis Theatre Snob concurs: "Under Jeffrey Richard Carter's musical direction, the New Line Band is tight, handling Wildhorn's score of depression-era blues, folk, gospel and rockabilly superbly...Seeing this production makes it hard to understand why it didn't last longer in NYC." Over at the RFT, Malcom Gay says it "should be on anyone's Most Wanted list." So maybe it should be on yours as well.

St. Louis University Theatre presents William Inge's Bus Stop through October 12. Performances take place in Xavier Hall, 3373 West Pine Mall. For more information, call (314) 977-2998 or visit the web site.

My take: William Inge's somewhat downbeat romantic comedy/drama had a respectable run on Broadway in 1955/56 (478 performances) and provided the basis for the 1956 film of the same name that gave Marilyn Monroe a chance to show that she was more than just a pretty face. " Overall this is a very strong production," writes Steve Callahan in his review for KDHX. "We see the growth in the central characters. ..If you've not seen this American classic, St. Louis University is offering you a lovely chance to enjoy it."

The Presenters Dolan present Katie McGrath: Love in the Desert: Romance in the Age of Scarcity on Saturday, October 11, at 8 PM as part of the Gaslight Cabaret Festival. "Nobody's better at love gone bad than Katie, who asks, 'In our world economy, scarcity is the problem of having seemingly unlimited human wants and needs in a world of limited resources. But this issue is also alive and well in matters of love. Why is it then, as we age and the prospective romance population shrinks, we become needier yet more demanding than ever?'" Neal Richardson is pianist and music director, with special musical guest Ethan Edwards on cello. The performance takes place at the Gaslight Theater, 358 North Boyle. For more information: gaslightcabaretfestival.com.

My take: I've watched Katie develop as a cabaret performer over the years and have never failed to be impressed with her professionalism and openness on stage. This time around she has the support of the immensely talented Neal Richardson as her music director and Tim Schall as her director. This was the same team that worked with me to create my own show Just a Song at Twilight: the Golden Age of Vaudeville, so I can say from personal experience that they're a couple of the best in the business.

Held Over:

Photo: Peter Wochniak

Stages St. Louis presents the musical Always..Patsy Cline through October 12. "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.

My take: Call this a qualified recommendation. If you're a lover of Patsy Cline or country music in general, I think you'll have a great time at this show, which is really more of a celebrity impersonation review than a book musical per se. Jacqueline Petroccia captures Cline's voice and manner so accurately it's eerie and Zoe Vonder Haar is a hoot and a half as Louise Seger, the real-life Houston fan who became a close friends and correspondent of Cline. With over two dozen Patsy Cline hits performed to perfection by Ms. Petroccia and a six-piece band, the show is a real feast for fans. See my KDHX review for more information.

Valhalla Cemetery and Hawthorne Players present Voices Of Valhalla: A Hayride Through History October 3-11. Hayrides through Valhalla Cemetery depart every fifteen minutes beginning at 6:30 each evening as members of the Hawthorne Players portray some of the noted locals buried in Valhalla. A special indoor performance, featuring all of the characters, will be held on Saturday, October 4, at 5:00 p.m. for those who might have difficulty boarding and sitting on hay wagons. "This year's characters will include the granddaughter of one of Robert E. Lee's slaves, a hero from the Viet Nam war, the composer of a major Broadway musical, a dress maker who worked in the Washington Avenue garment district in the 30s, a young lawyer and Sunday School superintendent who got involved with gangsters, a St. Louis business man and politician who entertained Teddy Roosevelt, and a 'bionic comic' who continued to perform long after he 'died on stage'." Look for yours truly as composer and music critic Paul Tietjens (pictured). Valhalla Cemetery is located at 7600 St. Charles Rock Road. For more information, visit the Hawthorne Players web site.

My take: OK, so I have a vested interest in this project, as you can tell from the description above. That said, having seen the work by the other members of the cast, I think I can guarantee you a unique and very entertaining theatrical experience in this "hayride through history" as you meet some remarkable characters from our city's colorful past.

St. Louis theatre calendar for the week of October 6, 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 October 12. "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!

Photo: Justin Been

Stray Dog Theatre presents Agatha Christie's thriller And Then There Were None Thursdays through Saturdays at 8 PM October 9-25. "Ten strangers, each with something to hide - or fear - are lured to a remote island by an unseen host. With no way to leave, the guests begin to share their dark secrets-and then, one by one, they die. Based on the best-selling mystery novel of all time, this thriller contains perhaps the most unpredictable plot ever devised by Agatha Christie." Performances take place at The Tower Grove Abbey, 2336 Tennessee. For more information, visit straydogtheatre.org or call 314-865-1995.

Upstream Theater presents Sophocles' Antigone October 10-26. “This ancient drama deals with the tragedy that ensues when society's demand for the rule of law conflicts with an individual's moral imperative-a conflict that recent events in our city have given unforeseen and unwanted resonance.“ Performances take place at the Kranzberg Arts Center, 501 North Grand in Grand Center. For more information, including show times: upstreamtheater.org.

Photo: Joe Angeles

The Performing Arts Department at Washington University presents Anon(ymous) by Naomi Iizuka Thursday and Friday at 8 p.m., Saturday at 2 and 8 p.m., and Sunday at 2 p.m., October 9-12. "Anon(ymous) is a contemporary re-imagining of Homer's Odyssey. The play tracks a refugee named Anon who has escaped from his war-torn homeland and comes to America in the hope of finding his family. At a time when our country is wrestling with the issue of immigration reform, Anon(ymous) offers a provocative look at the topic in this compelling theatrical work by one of America's finest playwrights." The performance takes place in the Edison Theatre in the Mallinckrodt Student Center on the Washington University campus. For more information, call 314-935-6543 or visit pad.artsci.wustl.edu.

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

Photo: Jill Ritter Lindberg

New Line Theatre presents the St. Louis premiere of the musical Bonnie and Clyde Thursdays through Saturdays at 8 PM through October 25. The show is "a kind of horror Romeo and Juliet story, exploring the culture that created this infamous couple and their two-year murder spree, the moral ambiguity of Prohibition and the Great Depression, and a national cult of celebrity that turned these damaged, dangerous kids into national folk heroes, in their twisted quest for dignity in a time of national humiliation. Bloomberg News called the show, 'a pop romance about the American nightmare.' Today, in this time of economic distress in America, this story seems more relevant than ever. Not only could it happen again; it does." Performances take place at the Washington University South Campus Theatre, 6501 Clayton Road. For more information, visit the web site or call 314-534-1111. Read the 88.1 KDHX review!

St. Louis University Theatre presents William Inge's Bus Stop through October 12. Performances take place in Xavier Hall, 3373 West Pine Mall. For more information, call (314) 977-2998 or visit the web site. Read the 88.1 KDHX review!

New Jewish Theater presents The Diary of Anne Frank October 11-November 2. Performances take place in the Marvin and Harlene Wool Studio Theater at the Jewish Community Center, 2 Millstone Campus Drive in Creve Coeur. For more information: www.newjewishtheatre.org or call 314-442-3283.

Windsor Theatre Group presents Forever Broadway Saturdays and Sundays at 2 and 5 p.m., October 11-26. "This is a family-friendly revue of gorgeous and fun melodies. Performances are at 2 pm and 5 pm on both Saturdays and Sundays. Some of the best singers in the metropolitan area will perform solos, duets and chorus selections of some of well-known numbers, as well as some less-remembered tunes from Broadway shows throughout the years. The audience will also be treated to extraordinary dancing." Performances take place at The Historic Ozark Theatre, 103 E. Lockwood in Webster Groves. For more information: 314-832-2114.

Lindenwood University presents Heaven Can Wait by Harry Seagall Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 p.m., October 10-18. “Mr. Jordan is checking passengers who are to depart in an airplane for the Hereafter. The routine is interrupted by the arrival of Joe Pendleton, an attractive prizefighter, who refuses to admit he is dead, and it is revealed that Joe is not scheduled to arrive for another 60 years! But Joe can't return to Earth because his manager had his body cremated! The search is on as Heaven attempts to locate a permanent body for Joe, who in the meantime is sent to earth in an interim body, falls in love, and is forced to deal with a murderous couple. Can he keep his new true love? Can he stay alive long enough for Heaven to find a new body? For now, Heaven Can Wait!' Performances take place in the Emerson Black Box Theatre at the J. Scheidegger Center for the Arts on the Lindenwood campus in St. Charles, MO. For more information, call 636-949-4433 or visit lindenwood.edu/center.

The University of Missouri at St. Louis presents In the Red and Brown Water Thursday and Friday at 7 p.m., Saturday at 2 and 7 p.m., and Sunday at 2 p.m., October 9-12. “Combing Yoruba and African-American culture, In the Red and Brown Water tells the story of Oya, a promising track star. As a girl, she must choose between her dreams and caring for her ailing mother. As a woman, she must choose between the man she lives with and the one she cannot live without.” Performances take place at the Touhill Performing Arts Center on the University of Missouri-St. Louis campus. For more information, call 314-516-4949.

The Presenters Dolan present Katie McGrath: Love in the Desert: Romance in the Age of Scarcity on Saturday, October 11, at 8 PM as part of the Gaslight Cabaret Festival. "Nobody's better at love gone bad than Katie, who asks, 'In our world economy, scarcity is the problem of having seemingly unlimited human wants and needs in a world of limited resources. But this issue is also alive and well in matters of love. Why is it then, as we age and the prospective romance population shrinks, we become needier yet more demanding than ever?'" Neal Richardson is pianist and music director, with special musical guest Ethan Edwards. The performance takes place at the Gaslight Theater, 358 North Boyle. For more information: gaslightcabaretfestival.com.

Clinton County Showcase presents the musical Little Shop of Horrors October 10-19. Performances take place at the Avon Theater, 525 North 2nd Street Breese IL. For more information, visit ccshowcase.com.

The St. Louis Family Theatre Series presents The Musical Adventures of Flat Stanley Friday through Sunday, October 10-12. Performances take place at the Florissant Civic Center Theatre at Parker and Waterford in Florissant, MO. For more information, call 314-921-5678 or visit www.florissantmo.com.

Peabody Opera House presents the musical Nice Work if You Can Get It, featuring songs by George and Ira Gershwin, Friday through Sunday, October 10-12. "It's the Roaring Twenties and a cast of outrageous characters gather in New York to celebrate the wedding of wealthy playboy Jimmy Winter. But things don't go as planned when the playboy meets Billie Bendix, a bubbly and feisty bootlegger who melts his heart.”. For more information, visit peabodyoperahouse.com or call 314-622-5420.

Over Due Theatre presents the musical Side Show Fridays and Saturdays at 8 PM and Sundays at 2 PM, October 10-19. “While the Great Depression rages through America, an unlikely pair is beginning their rise from freaks trapped in an exploitative carnival underworld to Vaudeville and Hollywood stars. Based on the true story of famous Siamese twins Daisy and Violet Hilton, the Tony-nominated musical Side Show follows the Hiltons' journey of stardom, romance, and heartbreak with the sisters coming to terms with the question "Who Will Love Me As I Am?" Featuring a moving blend of Rock, Pop, Vaudeville, and Classic Broadway music styles, this surreal spectacle cannot be missed!” Performances take place at the Olivette Community Center, 9723 Grandview Drive, in Olivette, MO. For more information, call 314-210-2959 or visit overduetheatrecompany.com

Winter Opera STL presents free performances of Michael Ching's Speed Dating Tonight, a "comic opera in one act about the trials and tribulations of finding love in a world that moves too fast." Performances take place Friday through Monday, October 10-13, at different locations in St. Louis and Metro-East. For details, visit the web site at winteroperastl.org.

The Conservatory of Theatre Arts at Webster University presents Diane Son's Stop Kiss Wednesdays through Sundays through October 12. "After Callie and Sara meet, their fast friendship leads to an unexpected attraction. Their first kiss provokes a violent attack that transforms their lives in a way they could never anticipate." Performances take place in the Emerson Studio Theater at the Loretto-Hilton Center on the Webster University campus. For more information, visit the web site or call 314-968-7128. Read the 88.1 KDHX review!

Photo: Gerry Love

Valhalla Cemetery and Hawthorne Players present Voices Of Valhalla: A Hayride Through History October 10 and 11. Hayrides through Valhalla Cemetery depart every fifteen minutes beginning at 6:30 each evening as members of the Hawthorne Players portray some of the noted locals buried in Valhalla. Look for yours truly (pictured) as composer and music critic Paul Tietjens. Valhalla Cemetery is located at 7600 St. Charles Rock Road. For more information, visit the Hawthorne Players web site.

COCA Theatre Company presents The Yellow Boat by David Saar Friday at 7 PM and Saturday at 2 and 7 PM, October 10 and 11. "The Yellow Boat" is based on the true story of Saar's son, Benjamin, who was born with congenital hemophilia and died at the age of 8 from AIDS-related complications. A uniquely gifted visual artist, Benjamin's buoyant imagination transformed his illness into a blaze of colors and shapes in his paintings. "The Yellow Boat" is directed by Shawna Flanigan. Recommended for ages 8 and up.” COCA is at 524 Trinity in University City. For more information, call (314) 725-6555 or visit www.cocastl.org.

The Lemp Mansion Comedy-Mystery Dinner Theater presents Zombie Love! (No Biting) through 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.