Thursday, September 14, 2017
"Years to the Day" is Intense, Funny, Brief, Small, Essential
Posted By Chris Davis on Thu, Sep 14, 2017 at 2:17 PM
Maybe I have a weird sense of beauty, but I've got to confess, I got a little choked up when I pulled right up to the door of 7 N. Main on my bike and looked into this brightly lit shopfront on the mall. Beyond a small gallery there were some chairs set up and a small stage with a table, two more chairs and some lamps. When the lights finally went down on Quark's production of Years to the Day, I knew anybody walking by outside could look in and watch the show. They could watch the audience watching the show. Everything was so minimal, so open, immediate, inviting and accessible. Beautiful without being remotely extravagant.
Of course, I'm a longtime Downtowner so I'm biased. The Main St. mall is a wonder of unrealized potential — a grand front porch of a piazza, begging for art and artists to bring color and life. Quark's production of Alan Barton's intense, funny two-man drama is a good start.
Tony Isbell directs Adam Remsen and David Hammons in a play about two middle aged white guys sitting around talking that's way more engaging than that sounds. Dan (Remsen) and Jeff (Hammons) are old college buddies who've grown apart and, prior to the awkward coffee date we witness, haven't made time to hang out in four years. They're still connected by way of social media, but that turns out to be a weak thread. The ensuing conversation touches on all the things one might expect from a couple of 40-something guys hanging out talking — the latest film, health, aging, sex, kids, divorce, the grim specter of death on the horizon, etc. Jeff's gay now. Dan nearly died of a heart attack in the parking lot of a discount store. There's some catching up to do, and it's not easy.
Dan's such a conservative ranter and despiser of all things "nanny state" it's hard to imagine at times how these two men were ever friends. But the magic of Years to the Day is rooted in a slow-burning revelation that shared personal history creates needs that outweigh cultural values.
The story's set in a familiar world with an alternative history so familiar situations are presented without the usual cultural/political baggage. This nearly trigger- free environment lets us watch debates without becoming a part of them — to see the dynamics of argument, not the merits of an argument. It's a nifty, hypnotic writing trick, though it can also feel a little gimmicky at times.
If watching two strong, unaffected actors ruthlessly going for it in a tight, high-stakes game of middle-stakes Life sounds like your idea of a good time, Years to the Day delivers.
I'm not sure what else I can say about this show without spoiling punchlines that sometimes land like actual punches. Clocking in at under 80-minutes, it's not a huge time investment either, leaving plenty of time to enjoy life on the riverfront.
Of course, I'm a longtime Downtowner so I'm biased. The Main St. mall is a wonder of unrealized potential — a grand front porch of a piazza, begging for art and artists to bring color and life. Quark's production of Alan Barton's intense, funny two-man drama is a good start.
Tony Isbell directs Adam Remsen and David Hammons in a play about two middle aged white guys sitting around talking that's way more engaging than that sounds. Dan (Remsen) and Jeff (Hammons) are old college buddies who've grown apart and, prior to the awkward coffee date we witness, haven't made time to hang out in four years. They're still connected by way of social media, but that turns out to be a weak thread. The ensuing conversation touches on all the things one might expect from a couple of 40-something guys hanging out talking — the latest film, health, aging, sex, kids, divorce, the grim specter of death on the horizon, etc. Jeff's gay now. Dan nearly died of a heart attack in the parking lot of a discount store. There's some catching up to do, and it's not easy.
Dan's such a conservative ranter and despiser of all things "nanny state" it's hard to imagine at times how these two men were ever friends. But the magic of Years to the Day is rooted in a slow-burning revelation that shared personal history creates needs that outweigh cultural values.
The story's set in a familiar world with an alternative history so familiar situations are presented without the usual cultural/political baggage. This nearly trigger- free environment lets us watch debates without becoming a part of them — to see the dynamics of argument, not the merits of an argument. It's a nifty, hypnotic writing trick, though it can also feel a little gimmicky at times.
If watching two strong, unaffected actors ruthlessly going for it in a tight, high-stakes game of middle-stakes Life sounds like your idea of a good time, Years to the Day delivers.
I'm not sure what else I can say about this show without spoiling punchlines that sometimes land like actual punches. Clocking in at under 80-minutes, it's not a huge time investment either, leaving plenty of time to enjoy life on the riverfront.
Event Details Years to the Day
@ 7 N. Main
7 N. Main
Downtown
Memphis,
TN
When: Through Sept. 29
Theater
Friday, September 8, 2017
"Years to the Day": Offbeat Theater in an Offbeat Venue
Posted By Chris Davis on Fri, Sep 8, 2017 at 12:29 PM
Quark Theatre co-founder/director Tony Isbell has a tidy description for Allen Barton's play, Years to the Day: "It's sort of like if David Mamet had written a play set in a version of our world with a slightly different history."
Years to the Day is difficult to describe in a way that makes it sound as dynamic as it should: two middle-aged guys — former college pals, still digitally networked — organize a face-to-face coffee reunion and discover via device-steeped, and rant-laden conversation, the vast differences between connected and connecting. "Politics and the personal are irrevocably intertwined," Isbell says. "It's sort of like what happens on Facebook when you discover that an old college chum has completely changed his political stripes. Or maybe he was 'that way' all along, and it just never came up. Can you remain friends with someone who has a radically different view of the world?"
Who doesn't ask that question several times a week?
A Downtown Memphis Commission program to help revitalize Downtown's North side has provided Quark with a temporary home. Years to the Day is being presented at 7 N. Main, Sept 8-29. Details here.
Years to the Day is difficult to describe in a way that makes it sound as dynamic as it should: two middle-aged guys — former college pals, still digitally networked — organize a face-to-face coffee reunion and discover via device-steeped, and rant-laden conversation, the vast differences between connected and connecting. "Politics and the personal are irrevocably intertwined," Isbell says. "It's sort of like what happens on Facebook when you discover that an old college chum has completely changed his political stripes. Or maybe he was 'that way' all along, and it just never came up. Can you remain friends with someone who has a radically different view of the world?"
Who doesn't ask that question several times a week?
A Downtown Memphis Commission program to help revitalize Downtown's North side has provided Quark with a temporary home. Years to the Day is being presented at 7 N. Main, Sept 8-29. Details here.
Thursday, August 31, 2017
Tennessee Shakespeare Company Purchases Former Ballet Memphis Property
Posted By Chris Davis on Thu, Aug 31, 2017 at 8:06 PM
It didn't take long to fill Ballet Memphis' old Trinity Road home. Better news, the spot's being taken over by another growing Mid-South arts organization. After years of partnering, renting and space-sharing the ambitious, Tennessee Shakespeare Company announced it would evolve its site-specific tradition and occupy the 18,000 + square-foot space left vacant by Ballet Memphis.
From the announcement.
With this acquisition, Tennessee Shakespeare Company is preparing to create the first and only permanent, year-round home for professional Shakespeare performance, education, and training in the state of Tennessee.
TSC plans to open its new facility next Spring.
“We now get to create a Southern center for creative collaboration, inquiry, inclusiveness, arts education, compassion, exalting language, for stories of healing, and for tremendous entertainment founded on Shakespeare’s and other classical works," McCleary stated in the sale announcement. "Memphis will soon have a permanent, professional theatre that produces the world’s greatest plays with America’s finest classical actors."
From the announcement.
"With this acquisition, Tennessee Shakespeare Company is preparing to create the first and only permanent, year-round home for professional Shakespeare performance, education, and training in the state of Tennessee.
TSC purchased the 18,484 square foot facility outright from Ballet Memphis for $1,900,000. There is no mortgage.
TSC, now beginning its tenth anniversary season, expects to begin interior renovation this Fall and to be completed in Spring 2018."
With this acquisition, Tennessee Shakespeare Company is preparing to create the first and only permanent, year-round home for professional Shakespeare performance, education, and training in the state of Tennessee.
TSC plans to open its new facility next Spring.
"[TSC founder] Dan McCleary launched the silent phase of TSC’s New Home Capital Campaign in June, and within seven weeks the full sale price for the property was raised from the company’s first Legacy Donors. These donors, many of whom remain anonymous until the facility is officially opened in 2018, reserve naming rights in the new home. "
“We now get to create a Southern center for creative collaboration, inquiry, inclusiveness, arts education, compassion, exalting language, for stories of healing, and for tremendous entertainment founded on Shakespeare’s and other classical works," McCleary stated in the sale announcement. "Memphis will soon have a permanent, professional theatre that produces the world’s greatest plays with America’s finest classical actors."
The Light: "The Flick" Rewards patient audiences at Circuit Playhouse
Posted By Chris Davis on Thu, Aug 31, 2017 at 10:31 AM
“I hate endings. Just detest them. Beginnings are definitely the most exciting, middles are perplexing and endings are a disaster. … The temptation towards resolution, towards wrapping up the package, seems to me a terrible trap. Why not be more honest with the moment? The most authentic endings are the ones which are already revolving towards another beginning. That’s genius.” — Sam Shepard.
Estragon: We always find something, eh Didi, to give us the impression we exist?
Vladimir: Yes, yes, we're magicians.
— Waiting for Godot, Samuel Beckett
Talk about your liminal spaces, wow. Is there any other point in the universe where the membrane separating soul-eroding minimum-wage reality and vast multiversal fantasy, is so very thin as it is in a cinema when the movie’s over and the crowd’s gone home; When the crew comes in to scrape gum, sweep up popcorn and other human waste? This is context for The Flick, a Pulitzer winner and theatrical endurance test rewarding audience patience with some extraordinary acting and a story considerably greater than its parts. Set during the digital revolution, in a movie theater still projecting film, Annie Baker's slow-burning comedy of awkwardness, is only tangentially about movies. It's more about seeing (or not seeing) the light amid desperation, depression, generational angst, and dead ends in an America where jobs can be scarce and unfulfilling. It's all wrapped in a potent, subtly developed object lesson about the true nature of a thing we vastly misunderstand — white supremacy.
Avery's the newest and most vulnerable member of The Flick staff. He's a young, African-American film nerd with encyclopedic knowledge and a firm belief that, "Nothing projected digitally can truly be called a film." Avery's hipster hobbyhorse creates a kind of converse: Can a show about watching people work, and work, and work truly be called a play? Because so much of The Flick is about watching the cast sweep popcorn up and down the aisles, silently managing the weight of their problems, hopes, fears, and fantasies as they mop up puddles of spilled coke and other unidentifiable substances. The action is redundant, and mind-numbing at first. But just when you think you can't take anymore of this shit, the weight and force of Baker's painstakingly real journey into the absurd hits like a Summer blockbuster.
It's hard to know what's going to happen to Sam. He's an angry white 30-(40?)-something who feels stuck, unappreciated, and overlooked — harmless, but still a pressure-cooker. Now he's breaking out in a mysterious rash too. And he lives at home with his mother who's swimming in credit card debt. The girl he's crushing on got promoted to projectionist over him. Now she's teaching Avery — the guy he trained (to sweep up popcorn) how to run the projector — and maybe she's teaching him more than that, too. Even Sam's younger "retarded" brother has found love and marriage, and something like happiness. To pass the time Avery asks Sam, "What do you want to be when you grow up?"
"I am grown up," Sam answers. Doesn't sound like much, but I'm hard pressed to name a time when any brief exchange in any play has felt so colossal. Maybe in Godot when Estragon says, "I can't go on like this," and Vladimir answers, "That's what you think."
In the projection booth, high above Sam and Avery's labors, Rose splices together the previews of coming attractions, and loads reels onto the projectors. You can see her framed in her little window, like the spidery star of her own silent film. She's the object of Sam's desire — disaffected and damaged, but bright. Her attempt to seduce Avery while screening Sam Peckinpah's The Wild Bunch is like a vaudeville routine turned inside out — a crushing joke, painfully and perfectly rendered.
These are The Flick's primary characters. We get to know them pretty well over three-and-a-quarter hours. But there are other characters too — a patron who sleeps through the end of the credits, a young new-hire who's into his smart phone and already knows how to sweep popcorn. And then there's the theater's Baby-Boomer owner, angling to sell the old movie house and retire. The owner never actually appears on stage but his watch (or lack thereof) impacts lives at The Flick. He's a faintly metaphysical construct, particularly for GenXer Sam, trapped between the famously enormous generation that got to all the good jobs first, and the fresh-faced millennials who'll replace them in a world made evermore impersonal by the invisible hand of the market.
Scenes are divided by blackouts — a projector's blinding beam cutting through the darkness. It flickers with life until the digital conversion happens. Then it's just flat light with no pulse at all.
Sam and Rose take part in a minor league ticket-money-skimming scam Flick employees have been pulling forever. It's called "dinner money" and it nets everybody an extra $10 or so a night to augment their $8.24/hour pay. Avery is coerced into participating against his better judgement. For all of his nerdiness, education, and all around middle-classness, he knows he's still black and the rules are different. And, of course, they are.
Director Jordan Nichols has pulled together a first rate ensemble: Brooke Papritz (Rose), John Maness (Sam), Roman Kalei Kyle (Avery) and Oliver J. Pierce (Skylar/The Dreaming Man). Finely-tuned performances might be described as theatrical mumblecore, but it sure wouldn't hurt for Papritz to project just a little more. She was often hard to hear from the middle of the theater, but not so hard to understand.
I never did write a tribute to Sam Shepard when he passed. It took the wind from my sails. He was my favorite living American playwright and I'm not really sure if I have one of those anymore. But with plays like The Flick, Baker may be in the running. As this production slouched toward its curtain call-free terminus, I was reminded of something Shepard once said about the shape of good drama. “I hate endings. Just detest them," he said. "Beginnings are definitely the most exciting, middles are perplexing and endings are a disaster. … The temptation towards resolution, towards wrapping up the package, seems to me a terrible trap. Why not be more honest with the moment? The most authentic endings are the ones which are already revolving towards another beginning. That’s genius.” That's about right, and the right way to wrap this review. Except for one more thing...
We can put a man on the moon but can't make a theater seat that doesn't turn into an instrument of torture after an hour and a half. That's just barely scratching the first act of this famously crawling show. My advice — bring a pillow. This one's not going to suit everybody, probably and I suspect some folks will pick up and leave at intermission, even if they don't hate the show. I can only encourage folks to stick it out. You'll be glad you did.
Sunday, August 27, 2017
Ostrander Honors Irene Crist, Ruby O'Gray: Winners, 2017
Posted By Chris Davis on Sun, Aug 27, 2017 at 10:30 PM
Congratulations to all!
Set Design
Jack Yates – Beauty and the Beast, Theatre Memphis
Props
Betty Dilley – The Odd Couple, Germantown Community Theatre
Lighting Design
Jeremy Allen Fisher – Side Show, Theatre Memphis
Hair/Wig/Make-Up Design
Buddy Hart, Rence Phillips, Ellen Inghram – Side Show, Theatre Memphis
Costume Design
Amie Eoff – Side Show, Theatre Memphis
Music Direction
Thomas Bergstig and Nathan McHenry – Sisters of Swing, The Circuit Playhouse
Sound Design
Carter McHann – Victory Blues, POTS@TheWorks
Choreography/Fight Choreography
Daniel Stuart Nelson and Courtney Oliver – Priscilla Queen of the Desert, Playhouse on the Square
Supporting Actress in a Drama
Jo Lynne Palmer – Haint, Germantown Community Theatre
Supporting Actor in a Drama
Gabe Beutel-Gunn – The 39 Steps, Theatre Memphis
Leading Actress in a Drama
Michele Somers Cullen – Haint, Germantown Community Theatre
Leading Actor in a Drama
Jordan Nichols – Hand to God, The Circuit Playhouse
Supporting Actress in a Musical
Claire D. Kolheim – Mamma Mia!, Playhouse on the Square
Supporting Actor in a Musical
Nathan McHenry – Million Dollar Quartet, Playhouse on the Square
Leading Actress in A Musical
Dani Chaum and Gia Welch – Side Show, Theatre Memphis
Leading Actor in a Musical
David Foster – Priscilla Queen of the Desert, Playhouse on the Square
Large Ensemble
Million Dollar Quartet – Playhouse on the Square
Small Ensemble
Sisters of Swing – The Circuit Playhouse
Cameo/Featured Role
Ron Gordon – Hamlet, New Moon Theatre Company
Best Production of an Original Script
Victory Blues – POTS@TheWorks
Excellence in Direction of a Drama
Irene Crist – Disgraced, The Circuit Playhouse
Excellence in Direction of a Musical
Dave Landis – Priscilla Queen of the Desert, Playhouse on the Square
Best Dramatic Production
Disgraced – The Circuit Playhouse
Best Musical Production
Million Dollar Quartet – Playhouse on the Square
Set Design
Jesse White – Spring Awakening, University of Memphis
Props
Danica Horton – Little Shop of Horrors, University of Memphis
Lighting Design
Anthony Pellecchia – Spring Awakening, University of Memphis
Hair/Wig/Make-Up Design
Austin Blake Conlee – Little Shop of Horrors, University of Memphis
Costume Design
Austin Blake Conlee – Little Shop of Horrors, University of Memphis
Music Direction
Jacob Allen – Spring Awakening, University of Memphis
Sound Design
Jo Sanburg – Anon(ymous), University of Memphis
Choreography
Jill Guyton Nee – Spring Awakening, University of Memphis
Supporting Actress in a Drama
Marian Anderson – A Hero Ain’t Nothin’ But A Sandwich, Southwest Tennessee Community College
Supporting Actor in a Drama
Blake Currie – Anon(ymous), University of Memphis
Leading Actress in a Drama
Vermico Smith – The Amen Corner, Southwest Tennessee Community College
Leading Actor in a Drama
Jorge Guaman – Anon(ymous), University of Memphis
Supporting Actress in a Musical
Erica Peninger – Spring Awakening, University of Memphis
Supporting Actor in a Musical
Cody Rutledge – Little Shop of Horrors, University of Memphis
Leading Actress in A Musical
Brittni Taylor Rhodes – Little Shop of Horrors, University of Memphis
Leading Actor in a Musical
Jacob Clanton – Little Shop of Horrors, University of Memphis
Large Ensemble
Spring Awakening, University of Memphis
Cameo/Featured Role
Naivell Steib – Anon(ymous), University of Memphis
Best Original Script
When It Rains, Southwest Tennessee Community College
Excellence in Direction
Stephen Hancock – Spring Awakening, University of Memphis
Best Production
Spring Awakening, University of Memphis
Special Award
MJ Evans and Jenny Wilson – Video Production, The Unencumbered, McCoy Theatre at Rhodes College
Kennon Cliche & John Phillians – Puppeteer and Voice of Audrey II, Little Shop of Horrors, University of Memphis
Behind the Scenes Award: Katharine Hughen
Gypsy Award: Noelia Warnette-Jones
Janie McCrary Putting It Together Award: Ruby O’Gray
Set Design
Jack Yates – Beauty and the Beast, Theatre Memphis
Props
Betty Dilley – The Odd Couple, Germantown Community Theatre
Lighting Design
Jeremy Allen Fisher – Side Show, Theatre Memphis
Hair/Wig/Make-Up Design
Buddy Hart, Rence Phillips, Ellen Inghram – Side Show, Theatre Memphis
Costume Design
Amie Eoff – Side Show, Theatre Memphis
Music Direction
Thomas Bergstig and Nathan McHenry – Sisters of Swing, The Circuit Playhouse
Sound Design
Carter McHann – Victory Blues, POTS@TheWorks
Choreography/Fight Choreography
Daniel Stuart Nelson and Courtney Oliver – Priscilla Queen of the Desert, Playhouse on the Square
Supporting Actress in a Drama
Jo Lynne Palmer – Haint, Germantown Community Theatre
Supporting Actor in a Drama
Gabe Beutel-Gunn – The 39 Steps, Theatre Memphis
Leading Actress in a Drama
Michele Somers Cullen – Haint, Germantown Community Theatre
Leading Actor in a Drama
Jordan Nichols – Hand to God, The Circuit Playhouse
Supporting Actress in a Musical
Claire D. Kolheim – Mamma Mia!, Playhouse on the Square
Supporting Actor in a Musical
Nathan McHenry – Million Dollar Quartet, Playhouse on the Square
Leading Actress in A Musical
Dani Chaum and Gia Welch – Side Show, Theatre Memphis
Leading Actor in a Musical
David Foster – Priscilla Queen of the Desert, Playhouse on the Square
Large Ensemble
Million Dollar Quartet – Playhouse on the Square
Small Ensemble
Sisters of Swing – The Circuit Playhouse
Cameo/Featured Role
Ron Gordon – Hamlet, New Moon Theatre Company
Best Production of an Original Script
Victory Blues – POTS@TheWorks
Excellence in Direction of a Drama
Irene Crist – Disgraced, The Circuit Playhouse
Excellence in Direction of a Musical
Dave Landis – Priscilla Queen of the Desert, Playhouse on the Square
Best Dramatic Production
Disgraced – The Circuit Playhouse
Best Musical Production
Million Dollar Quartet – Playhouse on the Square
Set Design
Jesse White – Spring Awakening, University of Memphis
Props
Danica Horton – Little Shop of Horrors, University of Memphis
Lighting Design
Anthony Pellecchia – Spring Awakening, University of Memphis
Hair/Wig/Make-Up Design
Austin Blake Conlee – Little Shop of Horrors, University of Memphis
Costume Design
Austin Blake Conlee – Little Shop of Horrors, University of Memphis
Music Direction
Jacob Allen – Spring Awakening, University of Memphis
Sound Design
Jo Sanburg – Anon(ymous), University of Memphis
Choreography
Jill Guyton Nee – Spring Awakening, University of Memphis
Supporting Actress in a Drama
Marian Anderson – A Hero Ain’t Nothin’ But A Sandwich, Southwest Tennessee Community College
Supporting Actor in a Drama
Blake Currie – Anon(ymous), University of Memphis
Leading Actress in a Drama
Vermico Smith – The Amen Corner, Southwest Tennessee Community College
Leading Actor in a Drama
Jorge Guaman – Anon(ymous), University of Memphis
Supporting Actress in a Musical
Erica Peninger – Spring Awakening, University of Memphis
Supporting Actor in a Musical
Cody Rutledge – Little Shop of Horrors, University of Memphis
Leading Actress in A Musical
Brittni Taylor Rhodes – Little Shop of Horrors, University of Memphis
Leading Actor in a Musical
Jacob Clanton – Little Shop of Horrors, University of Memphis
Large Ensemble
Spring Awakening, University of Memphis
Cameo/Featured Role
Naivell Steib – Anon(ymous), University of Memphis
Best Original Script
When It Rains, Southwest Tennessee Community College
Excellence in Direction
Stephen Hancock – Spring Awakening, University of Memphis
Best Production
Spring Awakening, University of Memphis
Special Award
MJ Evans and Jenny Wilson – Video Production, The Unencumbered, McCoy Theatre at Rhodes College
Kennon Cliche & John Phillians – Puppeteer and Voice of Audrey II, Little Shop of Horrors, University of Memphis
Behind the Scenes Award: Katharine Hughen
Gypsy Award: Noelia Warnette-Jones
Janie McCrary Putting It Together Award: Ruby O’Gray
Friday, August 25, 2017
Germantown Community Theatre Names New Executive Director
Posted By Chris Davis on Fri, Aug 25, 2017 at 4:53 PM
Good news for a change from Germantown Community Theatre. Eric Newsome — who comes to the theater by way of an engineering and telecommunications background — has accepted the position of Executive Director.
GCT has been struggling to stay afloat — you can read all about that here. With this announcement it looks like things are finally stabilizing.
From GCT's official announcement:
GCT has been struggling to stay afloat — you can read all about that here. With this announcement it looks like things are finally stabilizing.
From GCT's official announcement:
Eric's interest in the stage began in 1992 when he was magically transported through time and space (i.e. college road trip) to witness his first musical on Broadway. Following a successful career in engineering and management in the telecommunications industry, he transitioned into the entrepreneurial domain and started Historic Images, a local Memphis company that specializes in bringing life to vintage photography archives from media outlets around the country. He and his partners grew the company into a multi-million dollar organization, and he continued to get more entrenched in the local arts scene. He also focused his energy on starting a non-profit organization with local church leaders, Arpana House, that works with partners in India to find homes for abandoned girls. Along the way, he witnessed his incredibly talented wife rekindle her passion for live theatre, and subsequently bring the children along to grow up in the local theatre community. He first appeared onstage in Memphis in 2010, and was smitten. He has since served on local boards and continued to act on stage in various productions, including shows at GCT. Everyone in the family has a long and storied resume in local theatre, from dresser to featured role to stage manager to pin to cameo and everything in between. "I love theatre for many reasons, but chief among them is I believe in the power of story to connect us all. Life is full of struggle and love and pain and joy and we all, every one of us, identify with varying degrees to this whirlwind of emotions. The stage helps connect us all in our own, unique way to these common travails through the raw vulnerability of creating and telling a story. It helps us get through it all, with a sense of unity and belonging. I'm looking forward to applying my backgrounds in corporate management and entrepreneurial success, woven in with a passion for the craft, to ensure that GCT will bring great entertainment experiences to our community for generations to come."
Bo Adams, president of the Board of Directors, had the following to say. “The close of the 2016-2017 season marked a challenging chapter in history of GCT. The opening of the 2017-2018 season has the board excited about the future. Part of this excitement comes from the hiring of Eric Newsome. Eric brings a unique mix of business experience, having spent time in the tech industry as well as being an entrepreneur and being an active member of a non-profit. I would like to thank the all of the supporters, donors, and patrons that have made this possible especially the city of Germantown and the Germantown Women’s Club.”
Friday, August 18, 2017
2017 Ostranders — Picks, Pans and WHO GOT ROBBED!?!?
Posted By Chris Davis on Fri, Aug 18, 2017 at 10:20 AM
The Ostrander Awards are just around the corner and I've got some questions.
Where is Killer Joe?
[Looks sternly, menacingly around the room]
I'm not playing judges? Where the eff is Killer Joe?
Nothing? You've got nothing? No nominations? Not a crumb? Not a courtesy nod for this upsetting season highlight?
I've read the nominations over and over, hoping I'd overlooked something. But no. It's just not there. I've heard tell it wasn't even recommended for judging, and if that's so, somebody's got some explaining to do. Because in this particular moment, as we consider just how very screwed up our world has become, that show was fire.
True fact.
Maybe it wasn't pleasant. And maybe it wasn't perfect. And I'm not sure I ever want to see that ugly thing again. But New Moon's Killer Joe was sometimes thrilling, and outstanding in most regards. The set — a hyperrealistic mobile home interior — was as convincing as Katie Bell Kenny's Sun Studio simulacrum for Million Dollar Quartet. It was more believably lived in than the (gorgeous) Georgetown doll house Jack Yates dreamed up for The City of Conversation too. The glowing blue bug-zapper on the trailer's porch was a special touch— a perfect detail triggering good off-kilter memories from the last time New Moon produced a Tracy Letts script. Killer Joe's cast made me feel icky, I admit. It was a refreshing change from feeling nothing at all.
I'll be ranting more about this and a few other glaring omissions later but, as good as many of this year's Ostrander nominees may have been, I struggle with the idea that Letts' disturbing black comedy wasn't even a contender. Judges can hide behind reasonable differences of opinion and taste but I'm not having it with Killer Joe. It was a powerhouse indie and a strong example of what what can bubble up when a motivated community outgrows its institutions.
Oh well, here's this year's cranky list of Ostrander picks, pans and yes, of course, "Who Got Robbed?".
Set Design
Is it just me or does it seem like the judges really have a thing for literal environments and lots and lots of money?
Katie Bell-Kenny's lovingly detailed brick by brick Sun Studio was the spitting image of a place we all know just a few blocks down the road. Ryan Howell solved a lot of big problems for Priscilla Queen of the Desert and his beautiful bus sang in perfect harmony with Kathleen R. Kovariks costumes. Jack Yates gets three nods for Beauty and the Beast (epic Disney at a nearly human scale), The City of Conversation (whole lot of set for not much drama) and for the doctor's office drama Rasheeda Speaking, for which he crafted an artificial environment so realistic I watched an audience member walk onstage before the show and attempt to use the fake public restroom. These are all fantastic nominees and I think (hope) Yates takes the prize for Rasheeda — or even for Beauty and the Beast were he darkened the corners in ways that might make old Cocteau smile. But it's strange to me that Yates has three nominations while some really interesting work was ignored. As perfectly theatrical gestures go, things don't get much better than the enormous but not very flashy stairway built for Charles III. With its plain raked stage and floating french doors JImmie Humphries design for The House That Will Not Stand was a lean ghostly vision of Old New Orleans that looked great under light and Killer Joe was a convincing germaphobe's nightmare. Flat mugged, all three of these guys.
Lights
Jeremy Allen Fisher and Theatre Memphis pick up three lighting nominations for a trio of lushly lit musicals: Beauty and the Beast, Side Show and South Pacific. I didn't see The Bridges of Madison County, at The Circuit Playhouse but I'm a John Horan fan and Priscilla Queen of the Desert didn't disappoint. I get the sense that our judges have a "more is better" aesthetic, so they probably picked Beauty and the Beast but South Pacific and Side Show were more enchanting. Who got robbed? Killer Joe's bug-zapper was an awfully special practical but no show made better use of illumination this season than Playhouse on the Square's production of Lord of the Flies. I was especially struck by the closing scene when the rescue occurred and bright lamps flooded the stage. Until that moment I didn't realize just how literally dark things had gotten. Robbed!
Also, I don't know who to call out for Rasheeda Speaking. Jeremy Fisher's listed as the lighting designer but the practical lighting built into Jack Yates' set made the illusion complete. Did I mention that an audience member tried to use the onstage bathroom? Good stuff.
Costume Design
Disney's Beauty and the Beast is a a show about spectacle and Amie Eoff should probably win for that (with Anne Suchyta, Dawn Bennett and Rafael Castanera) though she may have done better work for Side Show, where she wasn't beholden to any animated expectations. I missed Sisters of Swing but have seen enough to know why this vintage snapshot of the Andrews Sisters career was included. Odds on Favorite: André Bruce Ward for Sense & Sensibility. Andre's period work is always on point and this lifetime achievement honoree is retiring from Theatre Memphis this year, leaving behind an extraordinary body of work (and 15-tons of sequins). and I'm betting the judges set him up with one for the road.
Sound Design
Screw this category.
TV and radio broadcasts intrude throughout Killer Joe creating a secret sixth character in the drama. Without Killer Joe in the mix Sound Design is a 100% illegitimate category. Okay, okay, un-screw this category. Chris Cotton's design for Haint was lonesome, haunting and deserving and so was Carter McHann's post-WWII soundscape for Victory Blues. I'm calling this for Cotton, but it's a tossup.
Supporting Actress in a Drama
I didn't catch Mary Buchignani in Sense & Sensibility, and that's on me because she's reliably fantastic. That makes this category a tough one to call. The similarly consistent Jessica “Jai” Johnson started a terrific year with Disgraced and Eugart Yearian lifetime achievement honoree Jo Lynne Palmer brought the spirit of a a stock Southern character to life in Hain't. I particularly enjoyed Kristen Vandervort 's shellshocked take on Laura in The Glass Menagerie, and Leah Beth Wingfield's irreverent turn in Hand to God. If I'm forced to choose from this truly fine field I'll take Vandervort for shining new light through old windows. But Mersadies Burch's performance as the Laura Wingfield of Killer Joe was more interesting than any of these. Annie Freres' performance in Killer Joe was braver than all of these. And then there's Maya Robinson's breakout performance in The House That Will Not Stand. In my realtime review I wrote, "I predict an Ostrander nomination [for Robinson] and have a hard time imaging who might even rise up to challenge this winning performance." I still have a hard time imagining it, so here's to you Ms. Robinson. You were 110% ganked.
You know who else got 110% ganked? There were three superb things about Theatre Memphis' profoundly meh production of the political drama City of Conversation. One of them was Jack Yates' eye-dazzling recreation of a swanky Georgetown home. One of them was Michael Walker's pitch-perfect performance as a Southern politician. The third was Shannon Walton's savagely imagined, Eve-like temptress offering the apple of Reaganism to any powerful man who'd sit still long enough. A thrilling performance in a play mythologizing bullshit. And speaking of plays mythologizing bullshit, Christina Welford Scott owned the stage as Camilla Duchess of Cornwall in Charles III — ganked.
Supporting Actor in a Drama
Another botched category absent a nomination for Daniel Pound as the no-account daddy and beer-swigging couch-wart in Killer Joe. Among the actual nominees Gabe Beutel-Gunn was solid in Disgraced but maybe better in The 39 Steps and Emmanuel McKinney turned in one of his strongest performances since Hurt Village as the aging boxer Joe Louis in Mr. Rickey Calls a Meeting. I'm calling this one for McKinney but Pound needs to file a police report sometime in the nest 24-hours. Robbed!
Leading Actress in a Drama
Why is Karen Mason Riss nominated for The City of Conversation? I'm not asking because she's not one of our best, she is! I even thought she was fantastic in last season's forgettable Mothers & Sons. But this show was a misfire. Her co-star Shannon Walton might just as easily be considered a lead, and her's was the more interesting performance in a show so crisply written you almost don't notice how muddled the vision is. It wouldn't be terrible if Anne Marie Caskey and Jessica “Jai” Johnson shared this year's award for Rasheeda Speaking. But my pick: Michele Somers Cullen. She swore she'd never act again and then along came Haint to make her a liar. She was remarkable as the misunderstood old root worker in this enjoyable Southern noir, but swears once again she's done. Maybe a play prize will change her mind.
Who got robbed? I've seen The Glass Menagerie many, many times. I've seen as many fine Amandas. But I've never seen one half as interesting or alive as Christina Welford Scott — Robbed! And while we're on the subject of Tennessee Williams poor Natalie Jones was a promising Maggie in Theatre Memphis' misfire production of Cat on a Hot Tin Roof. I can't say she was robbed exactly, but aggressively panhandled at the very least.
Leading Actor in a Drama
There was a scene in Hand to God where Jordan Nichols and Leah Beth Wingfield act their asses off while the puppets on their hands engage in frenzied, pagan sex. It's a high-wire moment scoring a solid 9 on the actor difficulty meter. Everybody else was fine, but if this season had one perfectly perfect moment that was it. Wingfield was amazing too.
Now for the bad news. Every time I think I've seen The Glass Menagerie enough and never need to see it again, I see a production that changes my mind. Shining in quiet, unexpected ways Kevar Lane Maffit is one of the best Toms I've ever seen. He was 100% Robbed!
Supporting Actress in a Musical
Annie Freres' voice is a force of nature and she blew down the house in both Mama Mia and Rock of Ages. Her only real competition here may be Jude Knight, who did Mrs. Potts proud in Beauty and the Beast.
Supporting Actor in a Musical
Philip Andrew Himebook was a perfectly heroic heel in Beauty and the Beast and Nathan McHenry sure could bang his piano in Million Dollar Quartet but I don't think there was any supporting performance more satisfying this season than Stephen Garrett's LA metalhead turn in Rock of Ages. A win in this category will more than make up for the fact he wasn't nominated for playing Sam Phillips in Million Dollar Quartet.
Also Mark Pergolizzi I hope you had insurance. You were the heart of Priscilla Queen of the Desert and you got ROBBED! Also robbed — Did the judges even see Quinton Rayford in Violet?
Leading Actress in A Musical
I'm not considering anybody not in Side Show and not named Dani Chaum and Gia Welch. They had to play two distinctly different characters functioning as a single body. It was another high difficulty performance and they stuck the landing. A young team with talent to spare, and that's all I have to say about that. Any other choice is just wrong. Except for one choice that's not really a choice at all. There were a lot of good musical performances this season but only one was perfect — Nichol Pritchard as the titular Violet in GCT's uneven, but no-less rewarding production.
Violet had issues and I can see why might not have received many nominations. But, as the musical teaches us, we're so much more than our scars and blemishes. Prichard's performance was brassy and beautiful and all she got for it was ROBBED!
Leading Actor in a Musical
The choices are Gary Beard in Liberace!, which I didn't see, Kent M. Fleshman in South Pacific, David Foster in Priscilla Queen of the Desert, Daniel Gonzalez in Sisters of Swing, which I also didn't see, and Bruce Huffman in Priscilla Queen of the Desert. As good as Fleshman and Foster were Huffman's the only nominee to really show me something new and unexpected. I don't know how you ground that much fabulous camp, but there was something uncommonly down to Earth about Huffman's over-the-top flights of fantasy. It was a winning performance among winning performances.
Who got robbed? I know Sam Phillips doesn't have any songs in Million Dollar Quartet, but y'all do know it's his show, right? Go check your insurance policies Stephen Garrett, you've been ROBBED!
Large Ensemble
Am I the only person who thinks it's funny to see Million Dollar Quartet in the large ensemble category? It's a show about a quartet. That's four people plus Sam Phillips which makes five. Then Elvis brings a date, making it six. Thing is M$4 also brings the backing band on stage adding a costumed bass player and drummer who basically just sit/stand there till it's time to play.That technicality brings M$4 into the large ensemble category where it still doesn't belong. Who's winning this one? I don't know. If One-Ham-Manlet the one-man Hamlet didn't get nominated, can't care. That Ryan Kathman contains multitudes.
Small Ensemble
Blackbird wasn't eligible and Killer Joe wasn't nominated so whoever wins this category will have to live with the full knowledge that they were second or third best at least. Having said, I wouldn't cry a bit if Mr. Ricky — a show with one more principle cast member than M$4 — took this one. It was a great example of Hattiloo choosing fantastic material nobody else is even looking at and elegantly performed.
Cameo/Featured Role
Better be Ron Gordon – Hamlet, New Moon Theatre Company. Flights of angels and all that...
Excellence in Direction of a Drama
I sound like a broken record but without James Kevin Cochran who directed Killer Joe and Tony Horne who brought together a real "wow" of a show with The House That Will Not Stand I'm not sure what we're rewarding here. Where's John Maness' nomination for GCT's tight, fuss-free Glass Menagerie? (Robbed!)
I missed only one among the chosen: Sense & Sensibility— that John Rone always does a fine job with Jane Austen. Irene Crist's a pro too but if Disgraced was more polished than her fun but spotty Hand to God. Dennis Whitehead Darling's sure and invisible hand allowed Mr. Rickey Calls a Meeting to speak for itself, and boy did it have a lot to say. Tony Isbell unleashed a storm of silliness and sight gags in The 39 Steps, a show I don't always enjoy. None of the nominated shows excited me like the ones that were overlooked.
Excellence in Direction of a Musical
Please let Scott Ferguson win for Rock of Ages. God how I hate (old-school hate, I'm a total H8R) some of the music in that ridiculous, gaudy, shitshow and Ferguson made it so much fun I got mad at myself and punched myself in the face for liking it. Michael Detroit did a fine job with Million Dollar Quartet and I suspect an equally competent job with Sisters of Swing. Dave Landis is also double-nominated for The Bridges of Madison County and a popular staging of Priscilla Queen of the Desert. For over-the-top vision and execution it's hard to beat Ferguson at his worst. Landis got close sometimes with Priscilla, but this was Ferguson at his best.
Best Dramatic Production
The 39 Steps was a screwball romp. The City of Conversation was a boring af. Disgraced was a firecracker. Hand to God was a messy, cathartic shart-fart of a comedy. I'm calling this one for Rasheeda Speaking. From its hyperrealistic, perfectly lit set, to similarly realistic performances Rasheeda was certainly the most relevant thing nominated.
Best Musical Production
Million Dollar Quartet has a hometown advantage and POTS did a fine job with the show. But it wasn't as humane as Priscilla Queen of the Desert or as hilarious as Rock of Ages. Sisters of Swing and
South Pacific both seem to be popular this season but I'm picking Rock of Ages. Because it's no easy easy job turning shit to solid gold.
And that's the end of this year's highly-anticipated peeing-in-the-punchbowl party.
See y'all at the Ossies!
Where is Killer Joe?
[Looks sternly, menacingly around the room]
I'm not playing judges? Where the eff is Killer Joe?
Nothing? You've got nothing? No nominations? Not a crumb? Not a courtesy nod for this upsetting season highlight?
I've read the nominations over and over, hoping I'd overlooked something. But no. It's just not there. I've heard tell it wasn't even recommended for judging, and if that's so, somebody's got some explaining to do. Because in this particular moment, as we consider just how very screwed up our world has become, that show was fire.
True fact.
Maybe it wasn't pleasant. And maybe it wasn't perfect. And I'm not sure I ever want to see that ugly thing again. But New Moon's Killer Joe was sometimes thrilling, and outstanding in most regards. The set — a hyperrealistic mobile home interior — was as convincing as Katie Bell Kenny's Sun Studio simulacrum for Million Dollar Quartet. It was more believably lived in than the (gorgeous) Georgetown doll house Jack Yates dreamed up for The City of Conversation too. The glowing blue bug-zapper on the trailer's porch was a special touch— a perfect detail triggering good off-kilter memories from the last time New Moon produced a Tracy Letts script. Killer Joe's cast made me feel icky, I admit. It was a refreshing change from feeling nothing at all.
I'll be ranting more about this and a few other glaring omissions later but, as good as many of this year's Ostrander nominees may have been, I struggle with the idea that Letts' disturbing black comedy wasn't even a contender. Judges can hide behind reasonable differences of opinion and taste but I'm not having it with Killer Joe. It was a powerhouse indie and a strong example of what what can bubble up when a motivated community outgrows its institutions.
Oh well, here's this year's cranky list of Ostrander picks, pans and yes, of course, "Who Got Robbed?".
Set Design
Is it just me or does it seem like the judges really have a thing for literal environments and lots and lots of money?
Katie Bell-Kenny's lovingly detailed brick by brick Sun Studio was the spitting image of a place we all know just a few blocks down the road. Ryan Howell solved a lot of big problems for Priscilla Queen of the Desert and his beautiful bus sang in perfect harmony with Kathleen R. Kovariks costumes. Jack Yates gets three nods for Beauty and the Beast (epic Disney at a nearly human scale), The City of Conversation (whole lot of set for not much drama) and for the doctor's office drama Rasheeda Speaking, for which he crafted an artificial environment so realistic I watched an audience member walk onstage before the show and attempt to use the fake public restroom. These are all fantastic nominees and I think (hope) Yates takes the prize for Rasheeda — or even for Beauty and the Beast were he darkened the corners in ways that might make old Cocteau smile. But it's strange to me that Yates has three nominations while some really interesting work was ignored. As perfectly theatrical gestures go, things don't get much better than the enormous but not very flashy stairway built for Charles III. With its plain raked stage and floating french doors JImmie Humphries design for The House That Will Not Stand was a lean ghostly vision of Old New Orleans that looked great under light and Killer Joe was a convincing germaphobe's nightmare. Flat mugged, all three of these guys.
Lights
Jeremy Allen Fisher and Theatre Memphis pick up three lighting nominations for a trio of lushly lit musicals: Beauty and the Beast, Side Show and South Pacific. I didn't see The Bridges of Madison County, at The Circuit Playhouse but I'm a John Horan fan and Priscilla Queen of the Desert didn't disappoint. I get the sense that our judges have a "more is better" aesthetic, so they probably picked Beauty and the Beast but South Pacific and Side Show were more enchanting. Who got robbed? Killer Joe's bug-zapper was an awfully special practical but no show made better use of illumination this season than Playhouse on the Square's production of Lord of the Flies. I was especially struck by the closing scene when the rescue occurred and bright lamps flooded the stage. Until that moment I didn't realize just how literally dark things had gotten. Robbed!
Also, I don't know who to call out for Rasheeda Speaking. Jeremy Fisher's listed as the lighting designer but the practical lighting built into Jack Yates' set made the illusion complete. Did I mention that an audience member tried to use the onstage bathroom? Good stuff.
Costume Design
Disney's Beauty and the Beast is a a show about spectacle and Amie Eoff should probably win for that (with Anne Suchyta, Dawn Bennett and Rafael Castanera) though she may have done better work for Side Show, where she wasn't beholden to any animated expectations. I missed Sisters of Swing but have seen enough to know why this vintage snapshot of the Andrews Sisters career was included. Odds on Favorite: André Bruce Ward for Sense & Sensibility. Andre's period work is always on point and this lifetime achievement honoree is retiring from Theatre Memphis this year, leaving behind an extraordinary body of work (and 15-tons of sequins). and I'm betting the judges set him up with one for the road.
Sound Design
Screw this category.
TV and radio broadcasts intrude throughout Killer Joe creating a secret sixth character in the drama. Without Killer Joe in the mix Sound Design is a 100% illegitimate category. Okay, okay, un-screw this category. Chris Cotton's design for Haint was lonesome, haunting and deserving and so was Carter McHann's post-WWII soundscape for Victory Blues. I'm calling this for Cotton, but it's a tossup.
Supporting Actress in a Drama
I didn't catch Mary Buchignani in Sense & Sensibility, and that's on me because she's reliably fantastic. That makes this category a tough one to call. The similarly consistent Jessica “Jai” Johnson started a terrific year with Disgraced and Eugart Yearian lifetime achievement honoree Jo Lynne Palmer brought the spirit of a a stock Southern character to life in Hain't. I particularly enjoyed Kristen Vandervort 's shellshocked take on Laura in The Glass Menagerie, and Leah Beth Wingfield's irreverent turn in Hand to God. If I'm forced to choose from this truly fine field I'll take Vandervort for shining new light through old windows. But Mersadies Burch's performance as the Laura Wingfield of Killer Joe was more interesting than any of these. Annie Freres' performance in Killer Joe was braver than all of these. And then there's Maya Robinson's breakout performance in The House That Will Not Stand. In my realtime review I wrote, "I predict an Ostrander nomination [for Robinson] and have a hard time imaging who might even rise up to challenge this winning performance." I still have a hard time imagining it, so here's to you Ms. Robinson. You were 110% ganked.
You know who else got 110% ganked? There were three superb things about Theatre Memphis' profoundly meh production of the political drama City of Conversation. One of them was Jack Yates' eye-dazzling recreation of a swanky Georgetown home. One of them was Michael Walker's pitch-perfect performance as a Southern politician. The third was Shannon Walton's savagely imagined, Eve-like temptress offering the apple of Reaganism to any powerful man who'd sit still long enough. A thrilling performance in a play mythologizing bullshit. And speaking of plays mythologizing bullshit, Christina Welford Scott owned the stage as Camilla Duchess of Cornwall in Charles III — ganked.
Supporting Actor in a Drama
Another botched category absent a nomination for Daniel Pound as the no-account daddy and beer-swigging couch-wart in Killer Joe. Among the actual nominees Gabe Beutel-Gunn was solid in Disgraced but maybe better in The 39 Steps and Emmanuel McKinney turned in one of his strongest performances since Hurt Village as the aging boxer Joe Louis in Mr. Rickey Calls a Meeting. I'm calling this one for McKinney but Pound needs to file a police report sometime in the nest 24-hours. Robbed!
Leading Actress in a Drama
Why is Karen Mason Riss nominated for The City of Conversation? I'm not asking because she's not one of our best, she is! I even thought she was fantastic in last season's forgettable Mothers & Sons. But this show was a misfire. Her co-star Shannon Walton might just as easily be considered a lead, and her's was the more interesting performance in a show so crisply written you almost don't notice how muddled the vision is. It wouldn't be terrible if Anne Marie Caskey and Jessica “Jai” Johnson shared this year's award for Rasheeda Speaking. But my pick: Michele Somers Cullen. She swore she'd never act again and then along came Haint to make her a liar. She was remarkable as the misunderstood old root worker in this enjoyable Southern noir, but swears once again she's done. Maybe a play prize will change her mind.
Who got robbed? I've seen The Glass Menagerie many, many times. I've seen as many fine Amandas. But I've never seen one half as interesting or alive as Christina Welford Scott — Robbed! And while we're on the subject of Tennessee Williams poor Natalie Jones was a promising Maggie in Theatre Memphis' misfire production of Cat on a Hot Tin Roof. I can't say she was robbed exactly, but aggressively panhandled at the very least.
Leading Actor in a Drama
There was a scene in Hand to God where Jordan Nichols and Leah Beth Wingfield act their asses off while the puppets on their hands engage in frenzied, pagan sex. It's a high-wire moment scoring a solid 9 on the actor difficulty meter. Everybody else was fine, but if this season had one perfectly perfect moment that was it. Wingfield was amazing too.
Now for the bad news. Every time I think I've seen The Glass Menagerie enough and never need to see it again, I see a production that changes my mind. Shining in quiet, unexpected ways Kevar Lane Maffit is one of the best Toms I've ever seen. He was 100% Robbed!
Supporting Actress in a Musical
Annie Freres' voice is a force of nature and she blew down the house in both Mama Mia and Rock of Ages. Her only real competition here may be Jude Knight, who did Mrs. Potts proud in Beauty and the Beast.
Supporting Actor in a Musical
Philip Andrew Himebook was a perfectly heroic heel in Beauty and the Beast and Nathan McHenry sure could bang his piano in Million Dollar Quartet but I don't think there was any supporting performance more satisfying this season than Stephen Garrett's LA metalhead turn in Rock of Ages. A win in this category will more than make up for the fact he wasn't nominated for playing Sam Phillips in Million Dollar Quartet.
Also Mark Pergolizzi I hope you had insurance. You were the heart of Priscilla Queen of the Desert and you got ROBBED! Also robbed — Did the judges even see Quinton Rayford in Violet?
Leading Actress in A Musical
I'm not considering anybody not in Side Show and not named Dani Chaum and Gia Welch. They had to play two distinctly different characters functioning as a single body. It was another high difficulty performance and they stuck the landing. A young team with talent to spare, and that's all I have to say about that. Any other choice is just wrong. Except for one choice that's not really a choice at all. There were a lot of good musical performances this season but only one was perfect — Nichol Pritchard as the titular Violet in GCT's uneven, but no-less rewarding production.
Violet had issues and I can see why might not have received many nominations. But, as the musical teaches us, we're so much more than our scars and blemishes. Prichard's performance was brassy and beautiful and all she got for it was ROBBED!
Leading Actor in a Musical
The choices are Gary Beard in Liberace!, which I didn't see, Kent M. Fleshman in South Pacific, David Foster in Priscilla Queen of the Desert, Daniel Gonzalez in Sisters of Swing, which I also didn't see, and Bruce Huffman in Priscilla Queen of the Desert. As good as Fleshman and Foster were Huffman's the only nominee to really show me something new and unexpected. I don't know how you ground that much fabulous camp, but there was something uncommonly down to Earth about Huffman's over-the-top flights of fantasy. It was a winning performance among winning performances.
Who got robbed? I know Sam Phillips doesn't have any songs in Million Dollar Quartet, but y'all do know it's his show, right? Go check your insurance policies Stephen Garrett, you've been ROBBED!
Large Ensemble
Am I the only person who thinks it's funny to see Million Dollar Quartet in the large ensemble category? It's a show about a quartet. That's four people plus Sam Phillips which makes five. Then Elvis brings a date, making it six. Thing is M$4 also brings the backing band on stage adding a costumed bass player and drummer who basically just sit/stand there till it's time to play.That technicality brings M$4 into the large ensemble category where it still doesn't belong. Who's winning this one? I don't know. If One-Ham-Manlet the one-man Hamlet didn't get nominated, can't care. That Ryan Kathman contains multitudes.
Small Ensemble
Blackbird wasn't eligible and Killer Joe wasn't nominated so whoever wins this category will have to live with the full knowledge that they were second or third best at least. Having said, I wouldn't cry a bit if Mr. Ricky — a show with one more principle cast member than M$4 — took this one. It was a great example of Hattiloo choosing fantastic material nobody else is even looking at and elegantly performed.
Cameo/Featured Role
Better be Ron Gordon – Hamlet, New Moon Theatre Company. Flights of angels and all that...
Excellence in Direction of a Drama
I sound like a broken record but without James Kevin Cochran who directed Killer Joe and Tony Horne who brought together a real "wow" of a show with The House That Will Not Stand I'm not sure what we're rewarding here. Where's John Maness' nomination for GCT's tight, fuss-free Glass Menagerie? (Robbed!)
I missed only one among the chosen: Sense & Sensibility— that John Rone always does a fine job with Jane Austen. Irene Crist's a pro too but if Disgraced was more polished than her fun but spotty Hand to God. Dennis Whitehead Darling's sure and invisible hand allowed Mr. Rickey Calls a Meeting to speak for itself, and boy did it have a lot to say. Tony Isbell unleashed a storm of silliness and sight gags in The 39 Steps, a show I don't always enjoy. None of the nominated shows excited me like the ones that were overlooked.
Excellence in Direction of a Musical
Please let Scott Ferguson win for Rock of Ages. God how I hate (old-school hate, I'm a total H8R) some of the music in that ridiculous, gaudy, shitshow and Ferguson made it so much fun I got mad at myself and punched myself in the face for liking it. Michael Detroit did a fine job with Million Dollar Quartet and I suspect an equally competent job with Sisters of Swing. Dave Landis is also double-nominated for The Bridges of Madison County and a popular staging of Priscilla Queen of the Desert. For over-the-top vision and execution it's hard to beat Ferguson at his worst. Landis got close sometimes with Priscilla, but this was Ferguson at his best.
Best Dramatic Production
The 39 Steps was a screwball romp. The City of Conversation was a boring af. Disgraced was a firecracker. Hand to God was a messy, cathartic shart-fart of a comedy. I'm calling this one for Rasheeda Speaking. From its hyperrealistic, perfectly lit set, to similarly realistic performances Rasheeda was certainly the most relevant thing nominated.
Best Musical Production
Million Dollar Quartet has a hometown advantage and POTS did a fine job with the show. But it wasn't as humane as Priscilla Queen of the Desert or as hilarious as Rock of Ages. Sisters of Swing and
South Pacific both seem to be popular this season but I'm picking Rock of Ages. Because it's no easy easy job turning shit to solid gold.
And that's the end of this year's highly-anticipated peeing-in-the-punchbowl party.
See y'all at the Ossies!
Tuesday, August 15, 2017
Jamie Farr, George Burns, Snow White: Halloran Centre Launches 3-Show Stage Series
Posted By Chris Davis on Tue, Aug 15, 2017 at 12:57 PM
I don't normally announce good news with a sad story but when I saw the George Burns show Say Goodnight Gracie on the Halloran Centre's new stage series it reminded me of the time Frank Gorshin told me, with forced enthusiasm, "I might be getting Burnsed out." The original Riddler was as hyperactive as ever when we spoke, but he sounded tired. He'd been sick for a long time and I had a feeling that crack was no joke. It was Gorshin's last interview and Say Goodnight Gracie at the Orpheum was his last performance.
Gorshin was a special kind of mimic and a hard act to follow in any case. Hopefully Memphis will be a better, happier ending gig for Wizards of Waverley Place actor Alan Safier.
M*A*S*H* fans and Tuesdays With Morrie fans can get both in one place when Corporal Maxwell Q. Klinger (AKA Gong Show panelist Jamie Farr) brings his adaptation of Tuesdays With Morrie to town.
The series closes with the adult fairytale musical Disenchanted, which seems like the perfect show after a couple of blocks workout on the party-bike. Amiright?
At $90 for a season pass, the price is right for this new series. Fun gift for friends who like vintage comedians and girls night out.
For more details, here you go.
Gorshin was a special kind of mimic and a hard act to follow in any case. Hopefully Memphis will be a better, happier ending gig for Wizards of Waverley Place actor Alan Safier.
M*A*S*H* fans and Tuesdays With Morrie fans can get both in one place when Corporal Maxwell Q. Klinger (AKA Gong Show panelist Jamie Farr) brings his adaptation of Tuesdays With Morrie to town.
The series closes with the adult fairytale musical Disenchanted, which seems like the perfect show after a couple of blocks workout on the party-bike. Amiright?
At $90 for a season pass, the price is right for this new series. Fun gift for friends who like vintage comedians and girls night out.
For more details, here you go.
TUESDAYS WITH MORRIE starring Jamie Farr
December 2 – 3, 2017
Television icon and star of M*A*S*H Jamie Farr brings this funny and touching stage adaptation of Mitch Albom’s bestselling book to life. Tuesdays is the true story of Mitch, whose chance reunion with former college professor Morrie leads to a weekly master class in the meaning of life.
Alan Safier as George Burns in SAY GOODNIGHT GRACIE
February 17 – 18, 2018
Spend a hilarious, heart-warming evening in the uplifting company of George Burns, the world’s favorite and funniest centenarian. Burns, who spanned over 90 years of American entertainment history, is now alive and kicking – and singing and dancing – in a stunning solo performance for Safier. Say Goodnight Gracie brings to life Burns’s fascinating story.
DISENCHANTED! The Hilarious Hit Musical
March 16 – 17, 2018
Poisoned apples. Glass slippers. Who needs ‘em?! Not Snow White and her posse of disenchanted princesses in the hilarious hit musical that’s anything but Grimm. Forget the princesses you think you know – the original storybook heroines have come back to life to set the record straight. These royal renegades tossed off their tiaras to bring their hilariously subversive, not-for-the-kiddies musical to you – and what you thought about princesses will never be the same.
The 2017-18 theatre season launches this week with "Ruined," and "9 to 5"
Posted By Chris Davis on Tue, Aug 15, 2017 at 8:58 AM
As a lifelong Dolly Parton fan and country music cosplayer who spent one of the best afternoons of his life shooting the breeze with Lily Tomlin, and most of his teen years watching Jane Fonda's Barbarella over and over again on the VCR, I'm trying to get excited about Playhouse on the Square's season opener, 9 to 5. But I've got to confess, I could use a up of ambition. Help?
I never warmed to the Broadway tour, which seemed, sometimes, to miss the point of a story that comes with a special history and and maybe some obligations.
9 to 5 isn't just a screwball pink-collar relic of the pre-Reagan-era. It's a transgressive anti-chauvinist romp with politics, to borrow from The New Republic:
"rooted in the moment when Second Wave feminism prompted the entrance of millions of middle-class white women into the paid workforce and the exit of many of those same women from the marriages they had entered in the Baby Booming 1950s and ’60s."Like most labor expressions born in the 70's it never found the right intersection of race, gender, and class, but it found other things that make this 1980 film — a film Roger Ebert described as good-hearted but "simple-minded"— look like the secret roadmap to a largely unclaimed future. The shenanigans get underway following a good old fashioned pot party/fantasy sequence that presages an actual office coups that makes Johnny Paycheck's "Shove It" look weak. Three overworked (and over-groped) secretaries kidnap the boss and take over the office. Then they listen to worker needs, and introduce radical ideas like in-office daycare, flex time and a bunch of wacky stuff that still probably sounds like paradise to the average cubicle-dweller in your average right to work state, and an unobtainable blue collar fantasy. Or, maybe "OMG SOCIALISM!!!" if you're insane.
Not to be all Danny Downer while discussing a zany musical farce, but a lot of the stuff we all learned in school about women's progress in the 20th-Century is bunk. Good stuff happened and things are marginally better but bodies are still battlefields, there's a groper in the Oval office, and when you boil down the data historic shifts toward economic parity tend to reflect a general decline in male earnings not great strides for womankind. Every time a glass ceiling shattered two iron window-shades slammed shut and for all its silly laughs, 9 to 5 is an expression of pure Hulk-smash rage. It's a sharp comic book vision, firmly set in reality, and built around a set of interviews actress Jane Fonda conducted with members of a Cleveland-based group called Working Women. According to WW organizer Karen Nussbaum, every aspect of author Patricia Resnick's story, from 9 to 5's pet-along-to-get along office environment to its characters' dreams of taking revenge against the boss, were drawn from Fonda's original interviews. Everything except for the part where the boss/villain played by Dabney Coleman gets kidnapped and and trussed up like an S&M clown show. That part is pure fictional revenge porn.
Crafted in the right spirit, a good musical adaptation could translate into something even more righteous and radical than the source material. But does it?Will it? Did it ever have a chance? Fonda's sincere desire to give Working Women a voice everybody could hear is unlike the motivations driving Broadway producers who've perfected the art of transforming nostalgia into piles of cash.
The struggle is real, you can hear it in the original cast recording.
Parton's original songs ground things, but arrangements are way more broad than Butterfly. On the plus side, Playhouse on the Square often makes the most out of okay film adaptations — Priscilla, anyone? And to end on a high note, 9 to 5 unites a trio of heavy hitting, slapstick-capable musical theater artists. Jeanna Juleson, Nicole Hale, and Jenny Madden take on the roles made famous by Tomlin, Parton, and Fonda. Mike Detroit stands in for Coleman. Gary John La Rosa who delivered a memorable Les Miz, and a forgettable American Idiot directs. Well, that was sort of a high note.
MAMA COURAGE: With Ruined Lynn Nottage explores the curse of plenty, and weaponization of sexual violence in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Opening at the Hattiloo this weekend.
"You gentlemen who think you have a missionAmericans tend to think of foreign conflicts as things happening across some ocean or another — Somebody else's problem. But our global village often means the violence is closer than you think. When you watch a production Lynn Nottage's raw, ragged, prize-winning script Ruined, you've got to know that the global infatuation with electronics helped fund Civil War in the Congo. Cell phones funded it. Video games funded it. I helped make it happen. You too, probably. That's not what the show is about, but the brutality has context.
To purge us of the seven deadly sins
Should first sort out the basic food position
Then start your preaching, that's where it begins" — Bertolt Brecht, "Second Threepenny Finale"
“If things are bad, then Mama eats first.” — Mama Nadi in Lynn Nottage's Ruined .
Ruined is is set in and around Mama Nadi’s bar, bodega, and brothel in a mining town in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Nadi's character was inspired by Brecht's Mother Courage who finds opportunity in conflict. Nadi sells a mix of vices and necessities to soldiers, but she buys too. Nadi has rage and uses some of her income to rescue women from sexual torture that scars them physically and turns them into socially ruined outcasts.
She rescues from one horror then puts them and puts them to work servicing the military men.
Disaster feeds on disaster in a vicious cycle, punctuated by hope and horror. Nottage's play is informed by her travels in Africa and exposure to the suffering of women amid the Congolese civil war. And unlike Brecht, who wanted to create emotional distance between characters and audience, she wants us to feel every piece of it.
Maya Robinson plays Mama Nadi with Ostrander nominated Jessica "Jai" Johnson as one of her rescues, Salima.
Love & Bank Robbery: Willie & Esther finishes its run at TheatreWorks
Bluff City Tri-Art Theatre Co. stages James Graham Bronson's comedy about middle aged lovers who plan an imaginary bank robbery and figure things out about commitment. Fridays and Saturdays at 8:00, Sunday, August 13, at 3:00.
BCTA has finalized its season. Here's what else they have in store.
“FITTIN’ INN” /August 25, 26, 27, 31 TheatreWorks 2085 Monroe Ave. Celebrating our 12th Season!
BCTC presents series hosts the Women’s Theatre Festival of Memphis production of the comedy “Fittin’ Inn” by Ruby O’Gray. Set in pre-Katrina NOLA, 3 ladies stumble upon an injured man whose deathbed request they grant. They are soon Memphis bound, but someone’s following them, which leads to-a-gut busting laugh fest. Friday 25 & 7:30pm.
“THE STRANGE CASE of MR. WOLF” /September 9 & 10/Evergreen/1705 Poplar Ave. 26, 6:00pm & 8:30pm/ Sunday 27, 3:00pm. Thursday 31, 7:30pm/ Tickets are $20/$15 for Seniors (50), Students,&
Bluff City Tri-Art Theatre presents “The Strange Case of Mr. Wolf ” by Ruby O’Gray. A fun show for parents & children, as the town takes the ever-menacing Big Bad Wolf to court for his misdeeds. Tickets: (Early Bird) $10 for ages 14 and up & / $5 for age 3-13. Saturday 9th-5:00pm & 7:30pm/ Sunday 3:00pm At The Door: $12 ages 14 and up /$10 ages 3-13
Wednesday, August 9, 2017
Midsummer Night's Sex Comedy: Remembering "A Play in 5 Betties"
Posted By Chris Davis on Wed, Aug 9, 2017 at 11:56 AM
Boy oh boy do I ever love the energy at late shows starting at 11 p.m. and midnight. Audiences tend to be younger. Folks have already been out for a while, and they bring that good-time momentum with them. The room vibrates with it before curtain time when it spills out onto the stage. You just know something mad is about to happen. Something exactly like Collective Rage: A Play in 5 Betties. (Originally A Play in 5 Boops).
Oh sure, they had shows at all the normal theater hours too. But I hit the late one, and it did not disappoint.
Normally I don't review shows that have already closed. What's the point? But this fine, fine show was here for such a short time and I really wanted to say a few words about the producing body Femmemphis, and a giddy, smart, stripped to essentials piece of theater so portable they could do it at birthday parties if they wanted to. Although that would be weird. Loosely inspired by Betty Boop, the cartoon flapper who's always fending off wolves and cat callers, (and also by A Midsummer Night's Dream) Collective Rage is a daring comedy of self-discovery and a perfect antidote to the toxic last hurrah of old, white, Viagra-fueled, cisgendered nut-rage. It's also a sly critique of an insane and irresponsible media landscape comprised mostly of outrage with vivid splashes of abject horror.
You know the thing women have that Donald Trump grabs with impunity because he's a celebrity? That's what Collective Rage is all about. And the male gaze. And the female gaze. And expectations, appearances, disappointments, truck maintenance, cocktail parties, boxing, love, loss, trial, error and ultimately, "the THEATRE!" Jen Silverman's script is as savage as it is humane, and Femmemphis' terrific cast — Kristen Vandervort, Jamie Boller, Christina Hernandez, Eileen Kuo, and Brianna Hill — devoured it like pie.
The stated mission of Fememphis is "to champion all womyn by empowering and promoting the female artistic voice in the Memphis community." Collective Rage was a fantastic place to start, and I can only hope the show's requirements are so few it will have a life beyond its single week run at the U of M lab theater. It's something that could attract attention over an extended run, and the kind of show some folks (like me) would happily see more than once. Even if this one doesn't come back, this collective is one to watch. Priorities are all in the right place — good material, detailed performances. Who needs fancy design when you can't take your eyes off the actors?
If I was reviewing this in real time I might grumble that there's a lot of cool and distinctive group movement in the old Max Fleischer cartoons, and it's a shame some of that couldn't be folded into the show's transitions. Isn't that just like me to complain that a very good thing wasn't somewhat better? But I'm not really complaining so much as imagining a more interesting future with this brave, smart, and giving group of performers in the mix.
More like this please.
Oh sure, they had shows at all the normal theater hours too. But I hit the late one, and it did not disappoint.
Normally I don't review shows that have already closed. What's the point? But this fine, fine show was here for such a short time and I really wanted to say a few words about the producing body Femmemphis, and a giddy, smart, stripped to essentials piece of theater so portable they could do it at birthday parties if they wanted to. Although that would be weird. Loosely inspired by Betty Boop, the cartoon flapper who's always fending off wolves and cat callers, (and also by A Midsummer Night's Dream) Collective Rage is a daring comedy of self-discovery and a perfect antidote to the toxic last hurrah of old, white, Viagra-fueled, cisgendered nut-rage. It's also a sly critique of an insane and irresponsible media landscape comprised mostly of outrage with vivid splashes of abject horror.
You know the thing women have that Donald Trump grabs with impunity because he's a celebrity? That's what Collective Rage is all about. And the male gaze. And the female gaze. And expectations, appearances, disappointments, truck maintenance, cocktail parties, boxing, love, loss, trial, error and ultimately, "the THEATRE!" Jen Silverman's script is as savage as it is humane, and Femmemphis' terrific cast — Kristen Vandervort, Jamie Boller, Christina Hernandez, Eileen Kuo, and Brianna Hill — devoured it like pie.
The stated mission of Fememphis is "to champion all womyn by empowering and promoting the female artistic voice in the Memphis community." Collective Rage was a fantastic place to start, and I can only hope the show's requirements are so few it will have a life beyond its single week run at the U of M lab theater. It's something that could attract attention over an extended run, and the kind of show some folks (like me) would happily see more than once. Even if this one doesn't come back, this collective is one to watch. Priorities are all in the right place — good material, detailed performances. Who needs fancy design when you can't take your eyes off the actors?
If I was reviewing this in real time I might grumble that there's a lot of cool and distinctive group movement in the old Max Fleischer cartoons, and it's a shame some of that couldn't be folded into the show's transitions. Isn't that just like me to complain that a very good thing wasn't somewhat better? But I'm not really complaining so much as imagining a more interesting future with this brave, smart, and giving group of performers in the mix.
More like this please.
Tuesday, August 8, 2017
Memphis Symphony Orchestra Names New CEO
Posted By Chris Davis on Tue, Aug 8, 2017 at 5:37 PM
The Memphis Symphony Orchestra has hired Porter-Leath Development Veep Peter Abell as its new CEO. The news comes almost two years to the day when the MSO's previous CEO Roland Valliere announced his imminent departure.
Abell has a long history working in not-for-profit development, but this is his first time to lead an arts organization. He takes over during a period of rebuilding and rebranding that started in 2014 when the orchestra announced it had burned through the last of its resources.
From the official announcement:
Abell has a long history working in not-for-profit development, but this is his first time to lead an arts organization. He takes over during a period of rebuilding and rebranding that started in 2014 when the orchestra announced it had burned through the last of its resources.
From the official announcement:
Abell’s appointment follows a string of leadership hires for the Symphony beginning with the promotion of Robert Moody to Music Director in March, followed by the hiring of Andrew Crust to serve as Assistant Conductor of the Symphony and Conductor of the Memphis Youth Symphony in June. Steven Fox was also added to the team as Engagement and Inclusion manager, and finally the addition of Rachael Patton to serve as the Director of Artistic Operations.
“Each appointment was made with careful consideration and confidence – we knew that each of these roles needed to be filled by strong leaders, demonstrating a history of success in music and nonprofit management as well as community development," said Gayle Rose, Chairman of the MSO’s Board of Directors. “Every member of this team brings immense experience from diverse backgrounds that, when combined, will undoubtedly produce musical excellence and serve Memphis like this city has never seen. These individuals are dedicated to charting our path toward becoming an exciting, relevant 21st century orchestra.”
Abell is a seasoned nonprofit leader, serving in various capacities with the Boy Scouts of America and Youth Villages before being named Executive Director of Books from Birth in 2012. Over the past year, he led the merger of Books from Birth with Porter-Leath, which was completed in July.
Thursday, August 3, 2017
Tennessee Shakespeare Company, Germantown Municipal School District Announce Partnership
Posted By Chris Davis on Thu, Aug 3, 2017 at 12:35 PM
The Germantown Municipal School District is partnering with Memphis' classical professional theater troupe the Tennessee Shakespeare Company.
From the announcement:
From the announcement:
Tennessee Shakespeare Company, the Mid-South’s professional, classical theatre and education organization, and the Germantown Municipal School District today announced a unique, multi-year education partnership that will bring immersive, cutting-edge Shakespeare curriculum to life for every student in grades five, seven, and nine.
Starting with this school year, all GMSD fifth and seventh grade students will participate in an introductory, immersive playshop to prepare and excite them for experiencing a full, live performance of TSC’s self-created production of Shakes, Rattle, and Roll. The show pays tribute to our hometown heritage, creatively linking the signature music of Memphis to the works of Shakespeare that could have inspired them.
All ninth grade students will be treated to TSC’s nationally-acclaimed Romeo and Juliet Project, a four-part interactive residency that concludes with an intimate and riveting live performance of Romeo and Juliet.
Ostrander Award Nominations, 2017 — College and University Division
Posted By Chris Davis on Thu, Aug 3, 2017 at 8:15 AM
And the Ostrander nominees in the college and university division are...
Set Design
Keenan Minogue – Anon(ymous), University of Memphis
Brian Ruggaber – Little Shop of Horrors, University of Memphis
Jesse White – Spring Awakening, University of Memphis
Props
Kim Britt – Anon(ymous), University of Memphis
Danica Horton – Little Shop of Horrors, University of Memphis
Danica Horton – Spring Awakening, University of Memphis
Lighting Design
Anthony Pellecchia – Little Shop of Horrors, University of Memphis
Anthony Pellecchia – Spring Awakening, University of Memphis
Elizabeth Tate – Anon(ymous), University of Memphis
Hair/Wig/Make-Up Design
Austin Blake Conlee – Little Shop of Horrors, University of Memphis
Sophia Deck – Mark Ravenhill’s Candide, McCoy Theatre at Rhodes College
Sheila Guerrero – The Unencumbered, McCoy Theatre at Rhodes College
Costume Design
Austin Blake Conlee – Little Shop of Horrors, University of Memphis
Zoe Gresham, David Jilg, Carolyn Parks, Kilby Elisabeth Yarborough –
Mark Ravenhill’s Candide, McCoy Theatre at Rhodes College
Heather Michelle Oles – Spring Awakening, University of Memphis
Music Direction
Jacob Allen – Little Shop of Horrors, University of Memphis
Jacob Allen – Spring Awakening, University of Memphis
David Muskins – The Amen Corner, Southwest Tennessee Community College
Sound Design
Jackson Conner – Spring Awakening, University of Memphis
Elizabeth Hersh – The Unencumbered, McCoy Theatre at Rhodes College
Jo Sanburg – Anon(ymous), University of Memphis
Choreography
Jyo Carolino – Anon(ymous), University of Memphis
Emma Crystal – Little Shop of Horrors, University of Memphis
Jill Guyton Nee – Spring Awakening, University of Memphis
Supporting Actress in a Drama
Marian Anderson – A Hero Ain’t Nothin’ But A Sandwich, Southwest Tennessee Community College
Miranda Colegrove – Mark Ravenhill’s Candide, McCoy Theatre at Rhodes College
Miranda Tonkin – Anon(ymous), University of Memphis
Supporting Actor in a Drama
James Baker – Mark Ravenhill’s Candide, McCoy Theatre at Rhodes College
Logan Bernard – Anon(ymous), University of Memphis
Blake Currie – Anon(ymous), University of Memphis
Leading Actress in a Drama
Clare Edgar – The Unencumbered, McCoy Theatre at Rhodes College
Jillian Franks – The Unencumbered, McCoy Theatre at Rhodes College
Vermico Smith – The Amen Corner, Southwest Tennessee Community College
Leading Actor in a Drama
Jorge Guaman – Anon(ymous), University of Memphis
Curtis C. Jackson – When It Rains, Southwest Tennessee Community College
Brandon Lewis – A Hero Ain’t Nothing But a Sandwich, Southwest Tennessee Community College
Supporting Actress in a Musical
Ashlin Neal, India Ratliff and Shelbi Sellers – Little Shop of Horrors, University of Memphis
Erica Peninger – Spring Awakening, University of Memphis
Brittni Taylor Rhodes – Spring Awakening, University of Memphis
Jordan Hartwell – Spring Awakening, University of Memphis
Supporting Actor in a Musical
Cody Rutledge – Little Shop of Horrors, University of Memphis
Cody Rutledge – Spring Awakening, University of Memphis
Kyle Yampiro – Little Shop of Horrors, University of Memphis
Leading Actress in A Musical
Grace Gibbons – Spring Awakening, University of Memphis
Brittni Taylor Rhodes – Little Shop of Horrors, University of Memphis
Leading Actor in a Musical
Jacob Clanton – Little Shop of Horrors, University of Memphis
Landon Ricker – Spring Awakening, University of Memphis
Large Ensemble
Anon(ymous), University of Memphis
Little Shop of Horrors, University of Memphis
Spring Awakening, University of Memphis
Cameo/Featured Role
Logan Bernard – Little Shop of Horrors, University of Memphis
Naivell Steib – Anon(ymous), University of Memphis
Best Original Script
A Hero Ain’t Nothin But a Sandwich, Southwest Tennessee Community College
When It Rains, Southwest Tennessee Community College
The Unencumbured, McCoy Theatre at Rhodes College
Excellence in Direction
Jacob Allen – Little Shop of Horrors, University of Memphis
Stephen Hancock – Spring Awakening, University of Memphis
Jazmin Miller – Anon(ymous), University of Memphis
Mary Ann Washington – The Amen Corner, Southwest Tennessee Community College
Best Production
Anon(ymous), University of Memphis
Little Shop of Horrors, University of Memphis
Spring Awakening, University of Memphis
The Amen Corner, Southwest Tennessee Community College
To see nominees for the community category, click here.
The 2017 Ostrander Awards are slated for Sunday, August 27 at the Orpheum Theatre. Cocktails at 6 p.m. awards and show at 7 p.m. Tickets are available online. Just follow this link.
Hosted by Sister.
Set Design
Keenan Minogue – Anon(ymous), University of Memphis
Brian Ruggaber – Little Shop of Horrors, University of Memphis
Jesse White – Spring Awakening, University of Memphis
Props
Kim Britt – Anon(ymous), University of Memphis
Danica Horton – Little Shop of Horrors, University of Memphis
Danica Horton – Spring Awakening, University of Memphis
Lighting Design
Anthony Pellecchia – Little Shop of Horrors, University of Memphis
Anthony Pellecchia – Spring Awakening, University of Memphis
Elizabeth Tate – Anon(ymous), University of Memphis
Hair/Wig/Make-Up Design
Austin Blake Conlee – Little Shop of Horrors, University of Memphis
Sophia Deck – Mark Ravenhill’s Candide, McCoy Theatre at Rhodes College
Sheila Guerrero – The Unencumbered, McCoy Theatre at Rhodes College
Costume Design
Austin Blake Conlee – Little Shop of Horrors, University of Memphis
Zoe Gresham, David Jilg, Carolyn Parks, Kilby Elisabeth Yarborough –
Mark Ravenhill’s Candide, McCoy Theatre at Rhodes College
Heather Michelle Oles – Spring Awakening, University of Memphis
Music Direction
Jacob Allen – Little Shop of Horrors, University of Memphis
Jacob Allen – Spring Awakening, University of Memphis
David Muskins – The Amen Corner, Southwest Tennessee Community College
Sound Design
Jackson Conner – Spring Awakening, University of Memphis
Elizabeth Hersh – The Unencumbered, McCoy Theatre at Rhodes College
Jo Sanburg – Anon(ymous), University of Memphis
Choreography
Jyo Carolino – Anon(ymous), University of Memphis
Emma Crystal – Little Shop of Horrors, University of Memphis
Jill Guyton Nee – Spring Awakening, University of Memphis
Supporting Actress in a Drama
Marian Anderson – A Hero Ain’t Nothin’ But A Sandwich, Southwest Tennessee Community College
Miranda Colegrove – Mark Ravenhill’s Candide, McCoy Theatre at Rhodes College
Miranda Tonkin – Anon(ymous), University of Memphis
Supporting Actor in a Drama
James Baker – Mark Ravenhill’s Candide, McCoy Theatre at Rhodes College
Logan Bernard – Anon(ymous), University of Memphis
Blake Currie – Anon(ymous), University of Memphis
Leading Actress in a Drama
Clare Edgar – The Unencumbered, McCoy Theatre at Rhodes College
Jillian Franks – The Unencumbered, McCoy Theatre at Rhodes College
Vermico Smith – The Amen Corner, Southwest Tennessee Community College
Leading Actor in a Drama
Jorge Guaman – Anon(ymous), University of Memphis
Curtis C. Jackson – When It Rains, Southwest Tennessee Community College
Brandon Lewis – A Hero Ain’t Nothing But a Sandwich, Southwest Tennessee Community College
Supporting Actress in a Musical
Ashlin Neal, India Ratliff and Shelbi Sellers – Little Shop of Horrors, University of Memphis
Erica Peninger – Spring Awakening, University of Memphis
Brittni Taylor Rhodes – Spring Awakening, University of Memphis
Jordan Hartwell – Spring Awakening, University of Memphis
Supporting Actor in a Musical
Cody Rutledge – Little Shop of Horrors, University of Memphis
Cody Rutledge – Spring Awakening, University of Memphis
Kyle Yampiro – Little Shop of Horrors, University of Memphis
Leading Actress in A Musical
Grace Gibbons – Spring Awakening, University of Memphis
Brittni Taylor Rhodes – Little Shop of Horrors, University of Memphis
Leading Actor in a Musical
Jacob Clanton – Little Shop of Horrors, University of Memphis
Landon Ricker – Spring Awakening, University of Memphis
Large Ensemble
Anon(ymous), University of Memphis
Little Shop of Horrors, University of Memphis
Spring Awakening, University of Memphis
Cameo/Featured Role
Logan Bernard – Little Shop of Horrors, University of Memphis
Naivell Steib – Anon(ymous), University of Memphis
Best Original Script
A Hero Ain’t Nothin But a Sandwich, Southwest Tennessee Community College
When It Rains, Southwest Tennessee Community College
The Unencumbured, McCoy Theatre at Rhodes College
Excellence in Direction
Jacob Allen – Little Shop of Horrors, University of Memphis
Stephen Hancock – Spring Awakening, University of Memphis
Jazmin Miller – Anon(ymous), University of Memphis
Mary Ann Washington – The Amen Corner, Southwest Tennessee Community College
Best Production
Anon(ymous), University of Memphis
Little Shop of Horrors, University of Memphis
Spring Awakening, University of Memphis
The Amen Corner, Southwest Tennessee Community College
To see nominees for the community category, click here.
The 2017 Ostrander Awards are slated for Sunday, August 27 at the Orpheum Theatre. Cocktails at 6 p.m. awards and show at 7 p.m. Tickets are available online. Just follow this link.
Hosted by Sister.
Ostrander Award Nominees, 2017 — Community Division.
Posted By Chris Davis on Thu, Aug 3, 2017 at 8:14 AM
Attention Theater People of Memphis! Awards season is officially upon us. That special time when... You know what, let's forget all the flowery talk about how we're all winners and just cut to the chase. The nominees are...
Set Design
Katie Bell-Kenny – Million Dollar Quartet, Playhouse on the Square
Ryan Howell – Priscilla Queen of the Desert, Playhouse on the Square
Jack Yates – Beauty and the Beast, Theatre Memphis
Jack Yates – The City of Conversation, Theatre Memphis
Jack Yates – Rasheeda Speaking, The Next Stage at Theatre Memphis
Props
Gabrielle D’arcangelo – Hand to God, The Circuit Playhouse
Betty Dilley – The Game’s Afoot, Germantown Community Theatre
Betty Dilley – The Odd Couple, Germantown Community Theatre
Jack Yates – Beauty and the Beast, Theatre Memphis
Jack Yates – Rasheeda Speaking, The Next Stage at Theatre Memphis
Lighting Design
Jeremy Allen Fisher – Beauty and the Beast, Theatre Memphis
Jeremy Allen Fisher – Side Show, Theatre Memphis
Jeremy Allen Fisher – South Pacific, Theatre Memphis
Zo Haynes – The Bridges of Madison County, The Circuit Playhouse
John Horan – Priscilla Queen of the Desert, Playhouse on the Square
Hair/Wig/Make-Up Design
Buddy Hart, Rence Phillips, Ellen Inghram – Side Show, Theatre Memphis
Buddy Hart, Eric Quick, and Ellen Inghram – Beauty and the Beast, Theatre Memphis
Kathleen R. Kovarik – Priscilla Queen of the Desert, Playhouse on the Square
Barbara Sanders – Sense & Sensibility, The Next Stage at Theatre Memphis
Lindsay Schmeling – Sisters of Swing, The Circuit Playhouse
Costume Design
Amie Eoff – Side Show, Theatre Memphis
Amie Eoff, Anne Suchyta, Dawn Bennett and Rafael Castanera – Beauty and the Beast, Theatre Memphis
Kathleen R. Kovarik – Priscilla Queen of the Desert, Playhouse on the Square
Lindsay Schmeling – Sisters of Swing, The Circuit Playhouse
André Bruce Ward – Sense & Sensibility, The Next Stage at Theatre Memphis
Music Direction
Gary Beard – Liberace!, The Next Stage at Theater Memphis
Thomas Bergstig – Million Dollar Quartet, Playhouse on the Square
Thomas Bergstig – Priscilla Queen of the Desert, Playhouse on the Square
Thomas Bergstig and Nathan McHenry – Sisters of Swing, The Circuit Playhouse
Jeff Brewer – Beauty and the Beast, Theatre Memphis
Sound Design
Christopher Cotten – Haint, Germantown Community Theatre
Joshua Crawford – Beauty and the Beast, Theatre Memphis
Carter McHann – Million Dollar Quartet, Playhouse on the Square
Carter McHann – Victory Blues, POTS@TheWorks
Jo Sanburg – The 39 Steps, Theatre Memphis
Choreography/Fight Choreography
Travis Bradley – Rock of Ages, Playhouse on the Square
Travis Bradley and Jordan Nichols – Mamma Mia!, Playhouse on the Square
Travis Bradley, Jordan Nichols and Courtney Oliver – Beauty and the Beast, Theatre Memphis
Daniel Stuart Nelson and Courtney Oliver – Priscilla Queen of the Desert, Playhouse on the Square
Courtney Oliver and Kim Sanders – Sisters of Swing, The Circuit Playhouse
Supporting Actress in a Drama
Mary Buchignani – Sense & Sensibility, The Next Stage at Theatre Memphis
Jessica “Jai” Johnson – Disgraced, The Circuit Playhouse
Jo Lynne Palmer – Haint, Germantown Community Theatre
Kristen Vandervort – The Glass Menagerie, Germantown Community Theatre
Leah Beth Wingfield – Hand to God, The Circuit Playhouse
Supporting Actor in a Drama
Gabe Beutel-Gunn – The 39 Steps, Theatre Memphis
Gabe Beutel-Gunn – Disgraced, The Circuit Playhouse
Emmanuel McKinney – Mr. Rickey Calls a Meeting, Hattiloo Theatre
Johnathan Williams – Mr. Rickey Calls a Meeting, Hattiloo Theatre
Jacob Wingfield – Hand to God, The Circuit Playhouse
Leading Actress in a Drama
Anne Marie Caskey – Rasheeda Speaking, The Next Stage at Theatre Memphis
Michele Somers Cullen – Haint, Germantown Community Theatre
Emily Draffen – Sense & Sensibility, The Next Stage at Theatre Memphis
Jessica “Jai” Johnson – Rasheeda Speaking, The Next Stage at Theatre Memphis
Karen Mason Riss – The City of Conversation, Theatre Memphis
Leading Actor in a Drama
Jared Graham – Hamlet, New Moon Theatre Company
Ryan Kathman – One Ham Manlet, The Next Stage at Theatre Memphis
Jordan Nichols – Hand to God, The Circuit Playhouse
Gregory Szatkowski – Disgraced, The Circuit Playhouse
Jacob Wingfield – Victory Blues, POTS@TheWorks
Supporting Actress in a Musical
Anne E. Freres – Rock of Ages, Playhouse on the Square
Kathryn Kilger – Million Dollar Quartet, Playhouse on the Square
Jude Knight – Beauty and the Beast, Theatre Memphis
Claire D. Kolheim – Mamma Mia!, Playhouse on the Square
Kim Sanders – Mamma Mia!, Playhouse on the Square
Supporting Actor in a Musical
Jason Eschhofen – Beauty and the Beast, Theatre Memphis
Stephen Garrett – Rock of Ages, Playhouse on the Square
Philip Andrew Himebook – Beauty and the Beast, Theatre Memphis
Nathan McHenry – Million Dollar Quartet, Playhouse on the Square
Daniel Stuart Nelson – Rock of Ages, Playhouse on the Square
Leading Actress in A Musical
Dani Chaum and Gia Welch – Side Show, Theatre Memphis
Anne E. Freres – Mamma Mia!, Playhouse on the Square
Kathryn Kilger – Sisters of Swing, The Circuit Playhouse
Carla McDonald – The Bridges of Madison County, The Circuit Playhouse
Amy P. Nabors – South Pacific, Theatre Memphis
Leading Actor in a Musical
Gary Beard – Liberace!, The Next Stage at Theatre Memphis
Kent M. Fleshman – South Pacific, Theatre Memphis
David Foster – Priscilla Queen of the Desert, Playhouse on the Square
Daniel Gonzalez – Sisters of Swing, The Circuit Playhouse
Bruce Huffman – Priscilla Queen of the Desert, Playhouse on the Square
Large Ensemble
Million Dollar Quartet – Playhouse on the Square
Priscilla Queen of the Desert – Playhouse on the Square
Rock of Ages – Playhouse on the Square
Sense & Sensibility – The Next Stage at Theatre Memphis
Side Show – Theatre Memphis
Small Ensemble
The 39 Steps – Theatre Memphis
Disgraced – The Circuit Playhouse
Mr. Rickey Calls a Meeting – Hattiloo Theatre
Rasheeda Speaking – The Next Stage at Theatre Memphis
Sisters of Swing – The Circuit Playhouse
Cameo/Featured Role
Barry Fuller – Beauty and the Beast, Theatre Memphis
Ron Gordon – Hamlet, New Moon Theatre Company
Mario Hoyle – Hamlet, New Moon Theatre Company
Curtis C. Jackson – Priscilla Queen of the Desert, Playhouse on the Square
Kim Sanders – Priscilla Queen of the Desert, Playhouse on the Square
Excellence in Direction of a Drama
Irene Crist – Disgraced, The Circuit Playhouse
Irene Crist – Hand to God, The Circuit Playhouse
Dennis Whitehead Darling – Mr. Rickey Calls a Meeting, Hattiloo Theatre
Tony Isbell – The 39 Steps, Theatre Memphis
John Rone – Sense & Sensibility, The Next Stage at Theatre Memphis
Excellence in Direction of a Musical
Michael Detroit – Million Dollar Quartet, Playhouse on the Square
Michael Detroit – Sisters of Swing, The Circuit Playhouse
Dave Landis – The Bridges of Madison County, The Circuit Playhouse
Dave Landis – Priscilla Queen of the Desert, Playhouse on the Square
Scott Ferguson – Rock of Ages, Playhouse on the Square
Best Dramatic Production
The 39 Steps – Theatre Memphis
The City of Conversation – Theatre Memphis
Disgraced – The Circuit Playhouse
Hand to God – The Circuit Playhouse
Rasheed Speaking – The Next Stage at Theatre Memphis
Best Musical Production
Million Dollar Quartet – Playhouse on the Square
Priscilla Queen of the Desert – Playhouse on the Square
Rock of Ages – Playhouse on the Square
Sisters of Swing – The Circuit Playhouse
South Pacific – Theatre Memphis
To see nominees in the College and University division, click here.
The 2017 Ostrander Awards are slated for Sunday, August 27 at the Orpheum Theatre. Cocktails at 6 p.m. awards and show at 7 p.m. Tickets are available online. Just follow this link.
Hosted by Sister.
Set Design
Katie Bell-Kenny – Million Dollar Quartet, Playhouse on the Square
Ryan Howell – Priscilla Queen of the Desert, Playhouse on the Square
Jack Yates – Beauty and the Beast, Theatre Memphis
Jack Yates – The City of Conversation, Theatre Memphis
Jack Yates – Rasheeda Speaking, The Next Stage at Theatre Memphis
Props
Gabrielle D’arcangelo – Hand to God, The Circuit Playhouse
Betty Dilley – The Game’s Afoot, Germantown Community Theatre
Betty Dilley – The Odd Couple, Germantown Community Theatre
Jack Yates – Beauty and the Beast, Theatre Memphis
Jack Yates – Rasheeda Speaking, The Next Stage at Theatre Memphis
Lighting Design
Jeremy Allen Fisher – Beauty and the Beast, Theatre Memphis
Jeremy Allen Fisher – Side Show, Theatre Memphis
Jeremy Allen Fisher – South Pacific, Theatre Memphis
Zo Haynes – The Bridges of Madison County, The Circuit Playhouse
John Horan – Priscilla Queen of the Desert, Playhouse on the Square
Hair/Wig/Make-Up Design
Buddy Hart, Rence Phillips, Ellen Inghram – Side Show, Theatre Memphis
Buddy Hart, Eric Quick, and Ellen Inghram – Beauty and the Beast, Theatre Memphis
Kathleen R. Kovarik – Priscilla Queen of the Desert, Playhouse on the Square
Barbara Sanders – Sense & Sensibility, The Next Stage at Theatre Memphis
Lindsay Schmeling – Sisters of Swing, The Circuit Playhouse
Costume Design
Amie Eoff – Side Show, Theatre Memphis
Amie Eoff, Anne Suchyta, Dawn Bennett and Rafael Castanera – Beauty and the Beast, Theatre Memphis
Kathleen R. Kovarik – Priscilla Queen of the Desert, Playhouse on the Square
Lindsay Schmeling – Sisters of Swing, The Circuit Playhouse
André Bruce Ward – Sense & Sensibility, The Next Stage at Theatre Memphis
Music Direction
Gary Beard – Liberace!, The Next Stage at Theater Memphis
Thomas Bergstig – Million Dollar Quartet, Playhouse on the Square
Thomas Bergstig – Priscilla Queen of the Desert, Playhouse on the Square
Thomas Bergstig and Nathan McHenry – Sisters of Swing, The Circuit Playhouse
Jeff Brewer – Beauty and the Beast, Theatre Memphis
Sound Design
Christopher Cotten – Haint, Germantown Community Theatre
Joshua Crawford – Beauty and the Beast, Theatre Memphis
Carter McHann – Million Dollar Quartet, Playhouse on the Square
Carter McHann – Victory Blues, POTS@TheWorks
Jo Sanburg – The 39 Steps, Theatre Memphis
Choreography/Fight Choreography
Travis Bradley – Rock of Ages, Playhouse on the Square
Travis Bradley and Jordan Nichols – Mamma Mia!, Playhouse on the Square
Travis Bradley, Jordan Nichols and Courtney Oliver – Beauty and the Beast, Theatre Memphis
Daniel Stuart Nelson and Courtney Oliver – Priscilla Queen of the Desert, Playhouse on the Square
Courtney Oliver and Kim Sanders – Sisters of Swing, The Circuit Playhouse
Supporting Actress in a Drama
Mary Buchignani – Sense & Sensibility, The Next Stage at Theatre Memphis
Jessica “Jai” Johnson – Disgraced, The Circuit Playhouse
Jo Lynne Palmer – Haint, Germantown Community Theatre
Kristen Vandervort – The Glass Menagerie, Germantown Community Theatre
Leah Beth Wingfield – Hand to God, The Circuit Playhouse
Supporting Actor in a Drama
Gabe Beutel-Gunn – The 39 Steps, Theatre Memphis
Gabe Beutel-Gunn – Disgraced, The Circuit Playhouse
Emmanuel McKinney – Mr. Rickey Calls a Meeting, Hattiloo Theatre
Johnathan Williams – Mr. Rickey Calls a Meeting, Hattiloo Theatre
Jacob Wingfield – Hand to God, The Circuit Playhouse
Leading Actress in a Drama
Anne Marie Caskey – Rasheeda Speaking, The Next Stage at Theatre Memphis
Michele Somers Cullen – Haint, Germantown Community Theatre
Emily Draffen – Sense & Sensibility, The Next Stage at Theatre Memphis
Jessica “Jai” Johnson – Rasheeda Speaking, The Next Stage at Theatre Memphis
Karen Mason Riss – The City of Conversation, Theatre Memphis
Leading Actor in a Drama
Jared Graham – Hamlet, New Moon Theatre Company
Ryan Kathman – One Ham Manlet, The Next Stage at Theatre Memphis
Jordan Nichols – Hand to God, The Circuit Playhouse
Gregory Szatkowski – Disgraced, The Circuit Playhouse
Jacob Wingfield – Victory Blues, POTS@TheWorks
Supporting Actress in a Musical
Anne E. Freres – Rock of Ages, Playhouse on the Square
Kathryn Kilger – Million Dollar Quartet, Playhouse on the Square
Jude Knight – Beauty and the Beast, Theatre Memphis
Claire D. Kolheim – Mamma Mia!, Playhouse on the Square
Kim Sanders – Mamma Mia!, Playhouse on the Square
Supporting Actor in a Musical
Jason Eschhofen – Beauty and the Beast, Theatre Memphis
Stephen Garrett – Rock of Ages, Playhouse on the Square
Philip Andrew Himebook – Beauty and the Beast, Theatre Memphis
Nathan McHenry – Million Dollar Quartet, Playhouse on the Square
Daniel Stuart Nelson – Rock of Ages, Playhouse on the Square
Leading Actress in A Musical
Dani Chaum and Gia Welch – Side Show, Theatre Memphis
Anne E. Freres – Mamma Mia!, Playhouse on the Square
Kathryn Kilger – Sisters of Swing, The Circuit Playhouse
Carla McDonald – The Bridges of Madison County, The Circuit Playhouse
Amy P. Nabors – South Pacific, Theatre Memphis
Leading Actor in a Musical
Gary Beard – Liberace!, The Next Stage at Theatre Memphis
Kent M. Fleshman – South Pacific, Theatre Memphis
David Foster – Priscilla Queen of the Desert, Playhouse on the Square
Daniel Gonzalez – Sisters of Swing, The Circuit Playhouse
Bruce Huffman – Priscilla Queen of the Desert, Playhouse on the Square
Large Ensemble
Million Dollar Quartet – Playhouse on the Square
Priscilla Queen of the Desert – Playhouse on the Square
Rock of Ages – Playhouse on the Square
Sense & Sensibility – The Next Stage at Theatre Memphis
Side Show – Theatre Memphis
Small Ensemble
The 39 Steps – Theatre Memphis
Disgraced – The Circuit Playhouse
Mr. Rickey Calls a Meeting – Hattiloo Theatre
Rasheeda Speaking – The Next Stage at Theatre Memphis
Sisters of Swing – The Circuit Playhouse
Cameo/Featured Role
Barry Fuller – Beauty and the Beast, Theatre Memphis
Ron Gordon – Hamlet, New Moon Theatre Company
Mario Hoyle – Hamlet, New Moon Theatre Company
Curtis C. Jackson – Priscilla Queen of the Desert, Playhouse on the Square
Kim Sanders – Priscilla Queen of the Desert, Playhouse on the Square
Excellence in Direction of a Drama
Irene Crist – Disgraced, The Circuit Playhouse
Irene Crist – Hand to God, The Circuit Playhouse
Dennis Whitehead Darling – Mr. Rickey Calls a Meeting, Hattiloo Theatre
Tony Isbell – The 39 Steps, Theatre Memphis
John Rone – Sense & Sensibility, The Next Stage at Theatre Memphis
Excellence in Direction of a Musical
Michael Detroit – Million Dollar Quartet, Playhouse on the Square
Michael Detroit – Sisters of Swing, The Circuit Playhouse
Dave Landis – The Bridges of Madison County, The Circuit Playhouse
Dave Landis – Priscilla Queen of the Desert, Playhouse on the Square
Scott Ferguson – Rock of Ages, Playhouse on the Square
Best Dramatic Production
The 39 Steps – Theatre Memphis
The City of Conversation – Theatre Memphis
Disgraced – The Circuit Playhouse
Hand to God – The Circuit Playhouse
Rasheed Speaking – The Next Stage at Theatre Memphis
Best Musical Production
Million Dollar Quartet – Playhouse on the Square
Priscilla Queen of the Desert – Playhouse on the Square
Rock of Ages – Playhouse on the Square
Sisters of Swing – The Circuit Playhouse
South Pacific – Theatre Memphis
To see nominees in the College and University division, click here.
The 2017 Ostrander Awards are slated for Sunday, August 27 at the Orpheum Theatre. Cocktails at 6 p.m. awards and show at 7 p.m. Tickets are available online. Just follow this link.
Hosted by Sister.
Irene Crist Honored with Eugart Yerian Award for Lifetime Achievement in Memphis Theatre
Posted By Chris Davis on Thu, Aug 3, 2017 at 8:12 AM
If Memphis is a theater town as Irene Crist asserts, she did her part to make it so. As an actor, she’s set a high bar. As a teacher for Playhouse on the Square’s conservatory, she shared her gift across generations. She retired from the stage in June after one last performance at Circuit Playhouse in Ripcord, Pulitzer-prize winning playwright David Lindsey-Abaire’s farce about odd-couple roommates in an all-out brawl to determine who reigns supreme in the nursing home.
Crist has been one of Memphis’ most reliable and recognizable actors since she first went to work for Jackie Nichols and Playhouse on the Square in a 1978 production of Much Ado About Nothing. She’s known Overton Square in its glory days, remembers when it hit the skids, and watched it bounce back and the number of theaters grow from one to four. She dropped into the scene on a high note and it looks like the classically trained actress who built a reputation for versatility, playing characters that ranged from Shakespeare’s ingenues to the pharmaceutical-impaired matriarch of August: Osage County, is bowing out on one too.
Crist's also known for her work as a director. This past season she helmed Ostrander nominated productions of Disgraced and Hand to God. She plans to continue that part of her career. Teaching too.
Before moving South Crist worked as a full-time actress with a small startup theater company in Rockville, Maryland. Street 70, the company where she cut her teeth, started out as a project of the Montgomery County Dept. of Recreation. It grew into the Round House Theatre, an award-winning Beltway company with an Equity venue in Bethesda and an education center in Silver Springs. Helping to launch this company was Crist’s first real job. It was also the continuation of a lifelong student/mentor relationship with Round House founder June Allen, a British actress who’d trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts under the guidance of British stage icons like Sir Michael Redgrave and Sir John Gielgud.
After working with Playhouse on the Square for a number of years Crist took a break from the stage to raise her kids. Her post-2001 comeback was accompanied by a shift in artistic focus. In addition to acting for Playhouse, she started directing shows for smaller theaters and suburban companies like Desoto Family Theatre. It was all pretty small stuff until 2010, when Theatre Memphis revived a production of Much Ado that Crist had set at the end of the Vietnam war and originally staged for Bartlett Community Theatre. The revival brought Crist’s Shakespearean romp more attention than it originally received and high praise for an offbeat cast and original, authentically psychedelic musical arrangements created by her son, Bennett Foster.
So Much Ado — Crist’s first show as an actor in Memphis — also heralded her arrival as a director of note. In 2013, her epic simultaneous staging of Tony Kushner’s Angels in America Parts 1 and 2 swept Memphis’ Ostrander Awards, bringing home 15 play prizes including Best Dramatic Production and a Best Director nod for Crist. In the following season she used her newfound talent for directing two plays at a time to stage richly imagined productions of Chekhov’s The Seagull, and Christopher Durang’s Chekhov-inspired comedy Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike. Like Angels, it was an enormous undertaking and a similarly enormous success with Memphis theater judges, earning Crist and Playhouse a second round of Best Director and Best Production Ostranders for the Durang.
The story continues this month when Crist is honored with the Yugart Eurian award for lifetime achievement in Memphis theater at The Ostranders.
The Eugart Yerian Award for Lifetime Achievement will be presented at the 2017 Ostrander Awards, Sunday, August 27 at the Orpheum Theatre. Cocktails at 6 p.m. awards and show at 7 p.m. Tickets are available online. Just follow this link. Hosted by Sister.
Crist has been one of Memphis’ most reliable and recognizable actors since she first went to work for Jackie Nichols and Playhouse on the Square in a 1978 production of Much Ado About Nothing. She’s known Overton Square in its glory days, remembers when it hit the skids, and watched it bounce back and the number of theaters grow from one to four. She dropped into the scene on a high note and it looks like the classically trained actress who built a reputation for versatility, playing characters that ranged from Shakespeare’s ingenues to the pharmaceutical-impaired matriarch of August: Osage County, is bowing out on one too.
Crist's also known for her work as a director. This past season she helmed Ostrander nominated productions of Disgraced and Hand to God. She plans to continue that part of her career. Teaching too.
Before moving South Crist worked as a full-time actress with a small startup theater company in Rockville, Maryland. Street 70, the company where she cut her teeth, started out as a project of the Montgomery County Dept. of Recreation. It grew into the Round House Theatre, an award-winning Beltway company with an Equity venue in Bethesda and an education center in Silver Springs. Helping to launch this company was Crist’s first real job. It was also the continuation of a lifelong student/mentor relationship with Round House founder June Allen, a British actress who’d trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts under the guidance of British stage icons like Sir Michael Redgrave and Sir John Gielgud.
After working with Playhouse on the Square for a number of years Crist took a break from the stage to raise her kids. Her post-2001 comeback was accompanied by a shift in artistic focus. In addition to acting for Playhouse, she started directing shows for smaller theaters and suburban companies like Desoto Family Theatre. It was all pretty small stuff until 2010, when Theatre Memphis revived a production of Much Ado that Crist had set at the end of the Vietnam war and originally staged for Bartlett Community Theatre. The revival brought Crist’s Shakespearean romp more attention than it originally received and high praise for an offbeat cast and original, authentically psychedelic musical arrangements created by her son, Bennett Foster.
So Much Ado — Crist’s first show as an actor in Memphis — also heralded her arrival as a director of note. In 2013, her epic simultaneous staging of Tony Kushner’s Angels in America Parts 1 and 2 swept Memphis’ Ostrander Awards, bringing home 15 play prizes including Best Dramatic Production and a Best Director nod for Crist. In the following season she used her newfound talent for directing two plays at a time to stage richly imagined productions of Chekhov’s The Seagull, and Christopher Durang’s Chekhov-inspired comedy Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike. Like Angels, it was an enormous undertaking and a similarly enormous success with Memphis theater judges, earning Crist and Playhouse a second round of Best Director and Best Production Ostranders for the Durang.
The story continues this month when Crist is honored with the Yugart Eurian award for lifetime achievement in Memphis theater at The Ostranders.
The Eugart Yerian Award for Lifetime Achievement will be presented at the 2017 Ostrander Awards, Sunday, August 27 at the Orpheum Theatre. Cocktails at 6 p.m. awards and show at 7 p.m. Tickets are available online. Just follow this link. Hosted by Sister.
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