The article discusses the launch of the new St. Louis Fringe Festival. Emily Piro, the executive director, had the idea for a fringe festival in St. Louis as early as 2007 after moving there from Seattle. However, it wasn't until 2011 that the idea started gaining traction. After discussing fringe festivals with a playwright she was touring with, Piro realized St. Louis was in need of a festival to showcase its diverse performing arts scene. With support from the local arts community, the inaugural St. Louis Fringe Festival will take place from June 14-24, 2012 around Grand Center.

1. JUNE 2012
KCST GE

2. TONY
AWARDS
2nd Annual Tony Awards Contest
This is way easier than trying to pick
your favorite bracket. If you have a
flair for knowing who will win at the
Tony’s, then you could clean up in
KC Stage swag. Prize includes a
one-year subscription to KC Stage.
Check out KC Stage’s main page at
www.kcstage.com and look for the
contest. The link will be up on June 1.
Be sure to register by noon on June 10.
And the award goes to...

3. Notes
Arts Asylum Opening June success relies on the approval of the $700,000
A new visual and performing space is having appropriation allocated by the Kansas Legis-
a launch party on June 2. The Arts Asylum, lature and the hiring of qualified staff. This is
located on 9th St in downtown Kansas City, necessary to create an agency that is success-
will be unveiling the James and Marjorie Rus- ful in promoting the arts and restoring federal
sell Theater and gallery space and studios. matching funds.
The event on Saturday, which goes from 7:30
to 11:30 pm, will have the organization’s Lyric Opera Gets New Director
first showcase, “Pure Imagination”, which will
The Lyric Opera announced the appointment
feature music, comedy, and performing arts.
of Deborah Sandler as the company’s new
More information is available at http://kea.
general director, effective July 1. Sandler signed
nu/asylum.
a five-year contract with the Lyric Opera, and
Cover photo by Kelly Luck
will take over once current director Evan Luskin
Dikenga Films Premiere in NY retires. As general director, Sandler will be
Local production company Dikenga Films will responsible for directing all aspects of the com- Top Billing
be premiering their latest film, Culture Shock, pany’s administration, fundraising, marketing, Spotlight on Marcus Mull.......................... 2
as part of Visionfest 12 in New York City on artistic production, and education programs.
June 22. Last year, Dikenga Films won five In collaboration with artistic director Ward Starring
Independent Vision Awards for their film The Holmquist, she also will plan the company’s Gladstone Theatre in the Park
Casserole Club. More information, including artistic offerings. Sandler currently is director Celebrates 25 Years............................ 3
of development and external affairs at the Ken- Hanging Fringe on the Arch...................... 4
a trailer, can be found at www.dikenga.com/ And the Cappie Goes To........................... 5
films/cultureshock. tucky School of Art at Spalding University in
Heart of America Shakespeare Festival....... 6
Louisville, and previously worked with Kentucky The View from the Bench......................... 14
Opera and the Opera Festival of New Jersey.
ArtsKC Awards Grants Notes
The Arts Council of Metropolitan Kansas City
has approved $7,000 in Inspiration Grant
KC Rep Gets Drama Desk Nods And the Cappie Goes To........................... 5
Blue Star Awards.................................... 16
funding for nine local artists. The ArtsKC Several of Kansas City Rep past and current art-
Fund’s Inspiration Grant program funds spe- ists have received nominations for the 2011-12 Stand-Ins
cial projects and professional development Drama Desk Awards. The Drama Desk Awards, Auditions............................................... 21
for individual artists. The nine artists which which are given annually in a number of cat- Calendar............................................... 10
received funding were selected from twenty egories, are the only major New York theater Events.................................................... 13
eight applicants after a two part application honors for which productions on Broadway, Film Clips.............................................. 13
Off-Broadway and Off-Off Broadway com- Notes...................................................... 1
process which includes review by a panel of
pete against each other in the same category. Performances........................................... 8
community members. Annually, approximately
eighty artists apply, all of which receive indi- Nominations include Claybourne Elder for Out- Cast of Characters
vidualized coaching on their proposals. Out of standing Actor in a Play for One Arm, David
Cromer for Outstanding Director for Tribes, Scott Bowling.............................Webmaster
the nine, one was performance based, going to Tricia Kyler Bowling................Subscriber Rep
Tara Varney to help produce Sexing Hitler for Martin Pakledinaz for Outstanding Costume Richard Buswell..................Managing Editor
this year’s Fringe Festival. For more informa- Design for Nice Work if You Can Get It, and Bryan Colley..................... OffStage Curator
tion, visit www.artskc.org. David Lander for Outstanding Lighting Design Jamie Lin.......................... Editorial Assistant
for One Arm. The New Victory Theatre, which Angie Fiedler Sutton............. Associate Editor
presented the Kansas City Rep’s The Adventures Martha Maggio................ Graphic Designer
Kansas Creative Arts Industries of Tom Sawyer and the Coterie’s Lucky Duck,
Letters to the Editor....... editor@kcstage.com
Governor Brownback signed the Kansas Cre- was also given a special award in recognition
ative Arts Industries Commission into law on of excellence and significant contributions to
May 10. The new agency will be tasked with theatre for “providing enchanting, sophisticated
KCSTAGE
the promotion, support and expansion of the children’s theater that appeals to the child in
creative industries in order to drive the Kansas all of us, and for nurturing a love of theater in
economy, grow jobs, and enhance the quality young people.” R
of life for all Kansans. The new commission’s
Vol. 15 • No. 8 • Issue 154 • June 2012
magazine@kcstage.com • (816) 23-STAGE
PO Box 410492 • Kansas City, Missouri 64141-0492
July Deadline: June 10
www.kcstage.com
© Copyright 2012 by KC Stage. All material contained in this pub-
lication is the property of or licensed for use by KC Stage. Any use,
duplication, or reproduction of any or all content of this publication
is prohibited except with the express written permission of KC Stage or
the original copyright holders. Printing by Alphagraphics. 
www.kcstage.com JUNE 2012 1

4. Spotlight on Marcus Mull
by Jeanne Beechwood
Rumor has it the Martin City Melodrama is being tions and marketing our unique theatrical product. Even
renamed the Marcus City Melodrama. Is this true? when I am out of the office, I continue to think of show
This was originally a joke because every once in a while ideas and really enjoy that creative process that keeps
I would answer the box office phone at Martin City spinning and spinning.
with “Marcus City Melodrama, how may I help you?”.
When and where did you graduate from college?
Is that your job for the Martin City Melodrama, to I graduated from Sterling College, in Sterling, Kan.,
answer the phone? spring of 2011 with a BA in theatre communications.
I help Jeanne run the theatre business and act in all
the shows. So how did it happen, you weren’t out of college for
barely a year and now you are helping run Martin
Can you describe a typical day at work? City?
Running a small business has new surprises every day. It happened all at once. I graduated May 13, 2011 from
Helping run a small theatre business never has a typical college and by May 15 I was hired by the Great Plains
day. Last weekend, we took Rumpelstilskin ... Recycled!?!, Theatre in Abilene, Kan. I took on work as an actor,
an original show for children that I co-wrote, to the Great set construction, and the box office. I also worked
Plains Mall in Olathe. We brought in the sets, costumes, with stage management in the company. This contract
and music and I play the title
role of Rumpelstilskin. After
performing the show, we tore
down the set and so forth and
drove back to our Metcalf South
location to perform our evening
show. All the while we are still
answering the phone and sell-
ing tickets. After the load in, we
prepared the Metcalf theatre to
be audience ready. Sweeping,
cleaning the bathrooms, getting
the snack bar ready, setting the
cabaret tables and chairs and
then perform Completely Hol-
lywood with as much energy as
kelly luck
required. After that show, we
cleaned up the theatre along
with cast mates Nino Cassi and Dianne Brown, then lasted until August 14. During my employment with
you and I had a production meeting to cover some issues the Great Plains Theatre, I made a trip up to audition
before the next day’s performances. for the Mystery Train Theatre. I couldn’t audition for
you yet, because you were in New York performing at
Was that considered a long day? the International Fringe Festival. The Mystery Train
Running a small business reminds me of my recent time Theatre offered me work as a stage manager. The next
in college. There are times when everything is crazy week I received a phone call the day before I moved
and deadlines are due and you keep going and going to Kansas City that the lead quit in the mystery pro-
to make sure everything gets done. Other times are not duction and I would be playing the lead role in Extra!
so crazy and we continue writing our original produc- Continued on page 20
2 KCSTAGE “Always make the audience suffer as much as possible.” ~ Alfred Hitchcock

5. Gladstone Theatre in the Park Celebrates 25 Years
by Jamie Lin
This summer marks the 25th season of Gladstone and there have been no further incidences of arson or
Theatre in the Park, the only community theatre in vandalism.
the Northland. In 1988, Van and Susie Ibsen of Ibsen In the face of a crisis, the community rose up to help
Dance Theatre decided that their community needed GTIP have a successful season, but they don’t just show
local opportunities to participate in theatre so that they up in times of tragedy. The Ibsens have a team of five
wouldn’t have to drive so far south. They wrote a letter advisors that help them keep things running on a day to
to the City of Gladstone and proposed doing one show day basis: Becky Clark, Michelle Coon, Julie Crawford,
in Oak Grove Park (Ibsen Dance Theatre would provide Lennette Johnson, and Jennifer Kessler. The advisory
all the sets, lights, sound, scripts, etc. and the city would board is on a 2 to 3 year rotating membership and is
provide the electricity, the park, and the parking) to responsible for selecting the shows and the directors
see if the community would support a summer the- of both musicals every summer. They also make sure
atre program. The city agreed and GTIP put on its first the operation is well organized with every person,
production, Oliver, with almost 50 people in the cast staff member, volunteer, deadline, and future growth
and over 800 audience members for each of the three accounted for. GTIP also has an operation manual that
performances. Sheila Lillis, head of Parks and Recre- the board follows and updates each year using the
ation, loved the response and proposed doing summer feedback from the major participates and volunteers.
theatre in the park to the mayor and the city council. It Gladstone Theatre in the Park is a well-oiled machine
was unanimously accepted. From 1988 to the present, and that is why they have been able to be so successful
GTIP has produced two musicals every summer with for 25 years.
casts ranging from 50 to 130 people and the audience Because the shows are so popular and so many
usually averaging around 3,000 to 3,500 each night. patrons show up early to save themselves seats, they
It seemed that the Ibsens had found a recipe for suc- have even devised a system to ensure that the blankets
cess: family friendly musicals with large casts and free and chairs don’t damage the grass. This long standing
admission for all. This formula enabled thousands of tradition is known as “the blanket run”. At 3 pm on
people in the Northland to be a part of the theatre scene show days, hundreds of excited audience members line
that was previously out of their reach. With the efforts up at the edge of the seating area and wait for a whistle
and donations of the community and local businesses, to blow. Once they hear the whistle, they rush to beat
Gladstone Theatre in the Park was able to build a per- each other to the piece of grass with the best view of
manent structure in Oak Grove Park in 1995 so that the stage. You can watch a video of a blanket run on
they no longer had to build a stage from scratch every their website.
summer. In 2001, however, it was tragically burned to Any theatre company that can generate that much
the ground in an act of arson on July 15, Van Ibsen’s excitement year after year, show after show, must be
birthday. The community was devastated by the loss but doing something right. Susie Ibsen attributed much of
rather than canceling Lil’ Abner, which was in its second the success to the actors that audition year after year.
week of rehearsal at the time, they gave new meaning “The level of talent continues to grow. We have many
to the phrase “the show must go on”. “We had more performers who have gone on to perform profession-
volunteers than I have ever seen come to our assistance,” ally.” Among those performers are well known names
Van said. “We cleared away the old stage, cleaned the such as Lauren Braton, often seen at the American Heart-
concrete platform and built the set in one weekend with land Theatre and Musical Theatre Heritage, Robert Erik
the assistance of people from almost every theatre in Sobbe, fresh off his starring role in Egads! Theatre Com-
town including Shawnee Mission Theatre in the Park, pany’s Zombie Prom, and Brian Shortess, another Eubank
Quality Hill Playhouse, Missouri Rep, River City Play- favorite and commercial actor.
ers, and so many more that I can’t remember! We opened Not only do they put on phenomenal shows that lead
on time with a wonderful production and with great to successful acting careers, they are bringing families
audience support.” A new structure has since been built Continued on page 18
www.kcstage.com JUNE 2012 3

6. Hanging Fringe on the Arch: St. Louis Starts Fringe Festival
by Angie Fiedler
Emily Piro, the executive director of the new St. Louis yet, but the idea had always stuck in the back of my
Fringe Festival, actually had the idea for something mind,” she says.
similar back in 2007. “I’m from Seattle originally and I However, in 2011, a series of events started with a
moved to St. Louis, and really started getting involved discussion with the New York playwright of the show
in the art scene here, especially the performing arts Piro was touring — she worked for the Seattle Fringe
and theatre scene,” Festival and remembered
Piro says. “What Piro’s show. “I was like,
really struck me is ‘You worked for the
the really unique tone Seattle Fringe — tell me
that every theatre more about that,’” Piro
company here has. continues. “And she said,
You really can’t inter- ‘You know, it was just
change one show for something that a group
the next, you know? of people started because
When you go to see they felt the city really
a company show, needed it.’ And I said,
you really kind of ‘Well, I think St. Louis
know how it’s going really needs it.’ That’s all
to feel, how it’s going it takes — that notion to be
to work, what kind able to say that it’s some-
of work’s going to thing the city needs.
be there. And that “And this time when
was something that I started floating the idea
was really exciting to around again, different
me, and I wondered people in the community
if all the audiences instead of being, ‘no, that
that are in St. Louis will never work’,
know about the really they were, ‘Yes, we
incredible diversity of need it, we want it.
work and all the dif- This is something
ferent types of work really necessary
that are here. There’s brian peters right now and
really something for everybody. So, if you’re going
I had this idea: what if we had this to put the
festival where all these different com- work into it,
panies could really showcase what they we’ll back
do really well and then we get a sense you 100%.’
of the type of work that’s already going I don’t
on in this city.” know if
At the time, no one she talked to really this is
jumped on the idea. Worries about shar- happening in
ing resources and space were predominant, the rest of the country, but
and Piro shelved the idea — but never really I know in St. Louis definitely there’s
gave up on it. “I didn’t have the name ‘fringe’ been this incredible wave of the creative culture,
Continued on page 17
4 KCSTAGE “The virtue of dress rehearsals is that they are a free show for a select group of artists and friends of the
author, and where for one unique evening the audience is almost expurgated of idiots.” ~ Alfred Jarry

7. And the Cappie Goes To...
On May 26, the 10th annual Kansas City Cappies were Female Dancer: Hayley Farrell, Raymore-Peculiar
presented. The Kansas City Cappies works with high High School, Legally Blonde
school theatre students all over the metro area; cultivat- Male Dancer: Reuben Hoyle, Blue Springs South
ing their writing skills, improving their critical analysis High School, Brigadoon
abilities, and honoring their talents and skills in and on Female Vocalist: Taylor Carr, Summit Christian
their school plays and musicals. The Kansas City Cap- Academy, Hello, Dolly!
pies recognizes these excellent students in 37 different Male Vocalist: Daniel Verschelden, Lee’s Summit
categories. The voting was held on May 1. For more High School, Guys & Dolls
information, including a list of all the nominees, visit Comic Actress in a Play: Sarah Goodman, Center
www.cappies.com/kcc. High School, See How They Run
Comic Actor in a Play: Nathaniel Weber, Raymore-
Marketing and Publicity: Amber Coultis, Chloe Jack- Peculiar High School, The Foreigner
son, Belton High School, The Crucible Comic Actress in a Musical: Lara Ware, Belton High
Sound: Mathias Ham, Ryan Rouse, Summit Christian School, Bye Bye Birdie
Academy, God’s Favorite Comic Actor in a Musical: Austin Welhoff, Harri-
Lighting: Brendon Dale, Ruskin High School, Almost, sonville High School, Footloose
Maine Supporting Actress in a Play: Nellie Maple, Raymore-
Sets: Ingrid Roettgen, Lee’s Summit West High Peculiar High School, The Foreigner
School, A Christmas Carol Supporting Actor in a Play: Jacob Bogart, Lee’s Sum-
Costumes: Shelby Hulsey, Sarah Muir, Kayla Redd,, mit West High School, A Christmas Carol
Lee’s Summit West High School, A Christmas Carol Supporting Actress in a Musical: Haley Crane, Ray-
Make-up: Kylee Schuh, Summit Christian Academy, more-Peculiar High School, Legally Blonde
Hello, Dolly! Supporting Actor in a Musical: Ben Nickols, Excelsior
Props: Sonia Jacobson, Morgan Shea Lyle, Raymore- Springs High School, Zombie Prom
Peculiar High School, The Foreigner Lead Actress in a Play: Hayley Farrell, Raymore-
Special Effects and or Technology: Tyler Fleming, Peculiar High School, The Foreigner
Excelsior Springs High School, Zombie Prom Lead Actor in a Play: Dane Schnake, Raymore-Pecu-
Stage Crew: Jake Salm, Shannah Withrow, Summit liar High School, The Foreigner
Christian Academy, God’s Favorite Lead Actress in a Musical: Nellie Maple, Raymore-
Orchestra: The Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Peculiar High School, Legally Blonde
Dreamcoat Orchestra, Lee’s Summit West High School Lead Actor in a Musical: Jon Gibson, Lee’s Summit
Choreography: Austin Welhoff, Emily Tracy, Har- West High School, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor
risonville High School, Footloose Dreamcoat
Creativity: Austin Strassle, Violin, Ruskin High Song: “Luck Be A Lady”, Lee’s Summit High School,
School, Fame Guys & Dolls
Ensemble in a Play: The Carolers, Lee’s Summit West Play: The Foreigner, Raymore-Peculiar High School
High School, A Christmas Carol Musical: Hello, Dolly!, Summit Christian Academy
Ensemble in a Musical: Cornelius, Irene, Barnaby, Female Critic: Michaela Wiehe, Raymore-Peculiar
Minnie, Summit Christian Academy, Hello, Dolly! High School
Featured Actress: Chloe Jackson, Belton High School, Male Critic: Austin Strassle, Ruskin High School
The Crucible Critic Team: Raymore-Peculiar High School R
Featured Actor: Bobby Turnbough, Raymore-Pecu-
liar High School, The Foreigner
www.kcstage.com JUNE 2012 5

8. Heart of America Shakespeare Festival: 20 Years Under the Stars
by Thomas Canfield
On a rainy June evening in 1993, the inaugural produc- donor meetings, and founding a Strictly Shakespeare
tion of the Heart of America Shakespeare Festival, The organization of supporters. Londré’s many contributions
Tempest, opened in Southmoreland Park. For Marilyn included supplying model budgets, writing preliminary
Strauss, the festival’s founder, this was “such stuff / As proposals for a free Shakespeare festival, and creating
dreams are made on.” Yet realizing an outdoor, pro- a persuasive slide lecture on “The Shakespeare Festival
fessional, free summer Shakespeare production was a Phenomenon.”
hard-won battle, and no one could predict its future In October of 1992, Strauss produced a gala fund-
over the next two decades. raiser at the Folly Theater starring Kevin Kline, who
Strauss, who grew up in Kansas City, began her pro- performed scenes from Shakespeare’s works. The sold-
fessional theatre career in the 1970s when she organized out benefit, for which Kline generously donated his
the Leonard Bernstein Festival with the Kansas City talent, netted $100,000. “Now, we could choose a play,
Philharmonic. This propelled her to a career on the Great hire a director, actors, designers, and technical experts,”
White Way, where Strauss co-produced five plays and Strauss says. “We could build a set, make costumes,
discovered Da, Hugh Leonard’s Irish comedy/drama, tailor the park, garner hundreds of volunteers, and beg
in 1978. When the production was transferred to Broad- all kinds of services.” From its conception, the festival
way, it earned six Tony awards — including Best Play took nearly three years to premiere.
— and garnered Strauss a Tony. She also received an A Midsummer Night’s Dream and Antony and Cleopa-
Obie for the off-Broadway play Getting Out and a Tony tra, performed in rotating repertory this summer, will
nomination for the musical Pump Boys and Dinettes. mark 26 total productions of 18 different plays in the
Homesick for the Midwest, Strauss returned to Kan- festival’s history, and it will be the first time the festival
sas City eleven years later to begin another chapter in performs Anthony and Cleopatra. To achieve a shared
her career. “I had a secret thought that I wanted to vision, executive artistic director Sidonie Garrett and
do theatre,” she says. Determined for success, Strauss assistant director Todd Lanker will juggle simultane-
recalls thinking, “’Nobody turns away from Shake- ous rehearsals. Eventually, Garrett hopes that the entire
speare. That’s a safe way to go.’ I wanted to be sure.” canon will be produced since a two-show season —
Aside from reading a few plays, however, she admits: “I
really didn’t know much about Shakespeare” at the time.
brian collins
As luck would have it, a local Shakespeare scholar
with an identical dream was eager to collaborate. In
1990, Strauss met Felicia Hardison Londré, curators’
professor of theatre at UMKC, who became the festival’s
honorary co-founder. While researching her book on
Shakespeare Companies and Festivals: An International
Guide, Londré had been travelling to Shakespeare fes-
tivals throughout the United States and Europe.
Founding a Shakespeare festival meant courting the
city, potential funders, and the community. At the time,
it would be the only free outdoor Shakespeare festival
in a tri-state area. Convincing Kansas City to join the
ranks of approximately 100-120 Shakespeare compa-
nies in the United States was “an uphill climb,” Strauss
says. Advised to start small, Strauss replied, “I’m not
going to start small. I’m going to go full force, and if it
works, it’ll work.” She spent countless hours planning,
Bruce Roach in Richard III.
gathering information, making phone calls, attending
6 KCSTAGE “Tallulah Bankhead” ~ Tristan Bernard

9.  Heart of America Shakespeare Festival: 20 Years Under the Stars
ing rehearsals forced everyone to take refuge under
doug hamer
a tent. The director, Bruce Levitt, told jokes while
“actors emptied the fast-accumulating rain from the
canvas overhead and others blocked holes where rain
was coming through,” she says. “That also may have
been the summer when we sank in mud to the top of
our tennis shoes in spite of the bales of hay the Parks
and Recreation Department strewed around the paths.”
Garrett’s first year with the festival as a young assis-
tant director was on The Taming of the Shrew in 1995.
Charged with maintaining the show after the director
departed, she says, “It was the hottest summer on record
that any of us can recall. We would leave the park and
it would still be 100 degrees.” During one performance,
Continued on page 19
Jason Chanos in Hamlet.
which the festival hopes to continue — allows
for greater flexibility in choices than a single
offering.
“Traditionally, Shakespearean plays were
viewed outdoors by boisterous crowds who
routinely ate and drank during the perfor-
mance,” an early festival brochure notes. For
many audience members, the performances
in the park are their only exposure to live the-
atre, and the casual atmosphere is frequently
punctuated by animated conversation, the
crumpling of potato chip bags, and the crack
of opening soda cans. Last season, almost
23,000 people attended Macbeth. Space is typi-
cally at a premium during the last weekend
of the run; Garrett recalls that the final perfor-
mances of Twelfth Night in 2001 saw close to
2,500 people crowded into the park at once.
Rehearsals begin indoors, but once in the
park the company is at the mercy of insects,
unpredictable weather, sirens, and even fire-
works and helicopters overhead. Rain can
force a hasty retreat to the hall, which means
reduced time rehearsing on the actual set.
doug hamer
Movement coach Jennifer Martin remembers
Robert Gibby Brand in The Tempest.
one year when a furious thunderstorm dur-
www.kcstage.com JUNE 2012 7

10. Performances
www.kcstage.com/performances
The Barn Players, Inc.*
marianne kilroy/coterie theatre
101 Dalmatians, Kids - Session # 1 by
Mel Leven, Randy Rogel, Richard Gibbs,
Brian Smith, Martin Lee Fuller, Dan
Root, Marcy Heisler and Bryan Louiselle:
Jun 19-21: 7:30 pm Tue-Thr
In a loving home in the city of London, Dalma-
tian parents, Pongo and Perdita happily raise
their Dalmatian puppies, until the monstrous
Cruella De Vil plots to steal them for her new
fur coat! Join all the dogs of London, as they
daringly rescue the puppies from Cruella and
her bumbling henchmen. With a delightfully fun
score, lovable characters, and one of the most
deliciously evil villains in the Disney canon,
this stage adaptation is certain to charm and
delight all audiences. Directed by Jason Coats.
$5. The Barn Players, 6219 Martway St, (913)
432-9100, www.thebarnplayers.org
Prelude To A Kiss by Craig Lucas:
Jun 1-17: 7:30 pm Fri-Sat; 2 pm Sun
At Peter and Rita’s wedding, a mysterious old
man insists on kissing the bride. While hon-
eymooning, Peter gradually realizes that the
woman by his side is not his wife. The wedding
kiss caused Rita’s soul and the old man’s to
change places. Peter must track down the old
man and free his young love’s spirit trapped
in an aging and diseased body before it’s too
late. Directed by Darren Sextro. $18; seniors
$15; students $10; 10 or more $12. The Barn
Players, 6219 Martway St, (913) 432-9100,
www.thebarnplayers.org
Charlotte Street Foundation
Exhibit Sway: In the Current: Jun 2:
6 pm Fri; 12 pm Sat
New dance works exploring the human psyche
inspired by and presented with photographic
work by Elijah Gowin. Free. La Esquina,
1000 W 25th St, (816) 221-5115, www.
charlottestreet.org A
Chestnut Fine Arts Theatre Julie Shaw in Once Upon a Mattress at the Coterie Theatre.
And The Oscar Goes To ... : May 17-
Jun 17: 8 pm Thr-Sat; 2 pm Sun
And the Oscar Goes To … celebrates the silver your favorite Oscar-winning songs - “Lullaby $23, discounts for seniors, children, & groups.
screen and Hollywood. Since the invention of of Broadway”, “When You Wish Upon a Star”, Chestnut Fine Arts Center & Theatre, 234 N
the motion picture, movies and music have “Buttons and Bows”, “Thanks for the Memory” Chestnut St, (913) 764-2121, chestnutfinearts.
been intertwined … so take your seat and enjoy and many more! Directed by Brad Zimmerman. com
*Affiliate Organizations offer discounts to subscribers of KC Stage. Display your member- Content Guide: Unless otherwise noted, the subject matter of performances should
ship card at the box office or mention it when ordering tickets over the phone. For a list be suitable for general audiences. Shows marked with A contain adult material that
of discounts and other offers, visit www.kcstage.com. Don’t forget to rate or review the may not be appropriate for children under the age of 18. Shows marked C contain
shows you see online! material that is specifically intended for children. Please note that these content markings
are designated by the individual arts organizations, not by KC Stage.
8 KCSTAGE “The center of the stage is where I am.” ~ Martha Graham

11.  Performances
Corbin Theatre Company turing Natalie King, Colter Lemmon, Casey
Metropolitan Ensemble Theatre
37 Postcards by Michael McKeever: McCabe, Lindsey Oetken, Annie Rosenbrook,
and Andrew Walker. $4-$15. Karl C. Bruder A Funny Thing Happened on the Way
May 31-Jun 9: 7:30 pm Thr-Sat to the Forum by Burt Shevelove, Larry
After eight years of traveling abroad, Avery Sut- Theatre, King Hall, (620) 341-6378, www.
emporia.edu/theatre Gelbart, & Stephen Sondheim: May 30-
ton is coming home - home to the warmth and Jun 17: 7:30 pm Wed-Sat; 2 pm Sun
comfort of his family. Unfortunately, things aren’t Tragedy tomorrow, comedy tonight! Outra-
quite as comfortable as Avery remembers. 37 Kacico Dance geous, farcical things pile upon one another
Postcards shows that you can, in fact, go home Little Red Riding Hood: A Newfangled to create a glorious car wreck in this riotous
again. You just never know what you’re going to Prairie Tale: Jun 8: 2 pm, 7 pm Fri “Roman” musical farce. The slave Pseudolus
find. Directed by Maggie Thomas. $10. Corbin Kacico Dance’s telling of Little Red Riding strikes a bargain with young Hero. If Pseu-
Theatre Company, 15 N Water St, (816) 476- Hood: A Newfangled Prairie Tale is a dance dolus can arrange for Hero to get the girl of
2705, www.corbintheatre.org narrative based on the book by local Missouri his dreams, then Hero will give Pseudolus his
author Lisa Campbell Ernst and published by freedom. And from this, all else ensues. Win-
The Coterie Theatre Simon & Shuster Children’s Publishing. This is ner of multiple Tony Awards, this play could
Once Upon a Mattress by Mary Rodg- a family friendly show that is intended for a have be accurately titled, “Many, many funny
ers, Marshal Barer, Jay Thompson, and multigenerational audience. Through original things happened on the way to the Forum.”
Dean Fuller: Jun 19-Aug 5: 11 am choreography, live music by KC Singer/Song Directed by John Robert Paisley. $35 Fri-Sat,
Tue-Fri; 2 pm Sat-Sun; 7 pm Fri; writer Dave Patmore, bright costumes and $30-Thur-Sun, $20 student. Metropolitan
1:30 pm Wed-Fri props, Kacico Dance will bring this traditional Ensemble Theatre, 3604 Main St, (816) 569-
Control-freak mom, Queen Aggravain, chases story to life… with a twist! Directed by Allison 3226, www.metkc.org
off her son’s chances of finding a Princess by McKinzie, Holly Noel Harmison, and Maggie
creating unbeatable tests. Along comes klutzy Osgood Nicholls. $8. Cultural Arts Center
-Metropolitan Community Center- Longview, Mid-America Arts Alliance
Princess Winnifred from the swamp (who swims LIVE! in the Crossroads, featuring Mak-
the moat) to set the Prince’s heart aflame. So, 500 SW Longview Rd., www.kacicodance.org
ing Movies: Jun 1: 6:30 pm Fri
the Queen plans her most difficult challenge Mid-America Arts Alliance is proud to present
yet. The palace is filled with merriment and The KC Improv Company LIVE! in the Crossroads on First Fridays in the
mischief while everyone wonders: will Prin- The KC Improv Company’s Big Show: Crossroads Arts District. Our LIVE! activities are
cess “Fred” pass the Queen’s test? Directed May 5-Jun 30: 8 pm Sat free and family-friendly. On Friday, June 1, the
by Jeff Church. Adults: $15; youth, students, The KC Improv Company has been doing it public is invited to join us for a performance
or seniors: $10. The Coterie Theatre, 2450 however the audience wants it since 2000. by the Latin/Salsa/Rock fusion band, Making
Grand Blvd, Ste 144, (816) 474-6552, www. Tonight they do an adults-only improvised show Movies. Individuals interested in presenting or
coterietheatre.org featuring fast-and-furious games, plus Chi- performing at a future LIVE! event may contact
cago-style long-form improvisation. Directed Christine Bial, Curator of Performing Arts, at
Emporia State University Theatre by Tim Marks, Scott Connerly, and Keith Curtis. christine@maaa.org or 816-421-1388, ext.
Dearly Beloved by Jones, Hope, and $10; $5 for students. The Kick Comedy Theater 227, for more information. Mid-America Arts
Wooten: Jun 13-16: 7:30 pm Wed-Sat (Westport Coffeehouse Theater), 4010 Pennsyl-
The three Futrelle Sisters are throwing a wed- vania, (913) 486-6861, www.kcimprov.com A Continued on page 12
ding. But nothing is working out and now the
bride and her groom are missing. As they try
rita marks
to figure out a way to salvage the wedding,
they reunite their old singing group “The Ser-
monettes”. Directed by Jim Bartruff. Featuring
Kylie Geiman, Jeannie Harper, Colter Lem-
mon, Carolyn Lohkamp, Casey McCabe,
Andrew McCutcheon, Noah Mefford, Aubrey
Near, Annie Rosenbrook, Trinity Standridge,
and Christina Hardin. $4-$15. Karl C. Bruder
Theatre, King Hall, (620) 341-6378, www.
emporia.edu/theatre
The Fox on the Fairway by Ken Ludwig:
Jun 27-30: 7:30 pm Wed-Sat
Ludwig’s tribute to the great English farces of
the 1930s and 1940s, A Fox on the Fairway
takes audiences on a hilarious romp which
pulls the rug out from underneath the stuffy
denizens of a private country club. Filled with
mistaken identities, slamming doors, and over-
the-top romantic shenanigans, it is a furiously
paced comedy. Directed by Jim Ryan. Fea- Members of the KC Improv Company.
www.kcstage.com JUNE 2012 9

12. *Affiliate Theatre
KCSTAGE JUNE 2012
28 MON 29 TUE 1 FRI 2 SAT 3 SUN
NO PERFORMANCES The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee • The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee • The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee • The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee •
New Theatre Restaurant New Theatre Restaurant New Theatre Restaurant New Theatre Restaurant
Everyday Rapture • Unicorn Theatre 37 Postcards • Corbin Theatre Company 37 Postcards • Corbin Theatre Company The 39 Steps • Theatre Atchison
The 39 Steps • Theatre Atchison The 39 Steps • Theatre Atchison And The Oscar Goes To... • Chestnut Fine Arts
And The Oscar Goes To... • Chestnut Fine Arts And The Oscar Goes To... • Chestnut Fine Arts Chicago • Music Theatre for Young People
30 WED 31 THU Everyday Rapture • Unicorn Theatre Chicago • Music Theatre for Young People Everyday Rapture • Unicorn Theatre
The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee • The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee •
Exhibit Sway: In the Current • Charlotte Street Everyday Rapture • Unicorn Theatre A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum •
New Theatre Restaurant New Theatre Restaurant
Foundation Exhibit Sway: In the Current • Charlotte Street Metropolitan Ensemble Theatre
Everyday Rapture • Unicorn Theatre 37 Postcards • Corbin Theatre Company
A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum • Foundation Pete ‘n’ Keely • Quality Hill Playhouse
A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum • And The Oscar Goes To... • Chestnut Fine Arts
Metropolitan Ensemble Theatre A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum • Prelude To A Kiss • The Barn Players, Inc.*
Metropolitan Ensemble Theatre Everyday Rapture • Unicorn Theatre
The Night of the Assassins • The Mystery Train Metropolitan Ensemble Theatre Who’s in Bed with the Butler • Paradise Playhouse
A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum •
Pete ‘n’ Keely • Quality Hill Playhouse The KC Improv Company’s Big Show • The KC Dinner Theatre
Metropolitan Ensemble Theatre
Prelude To A Kiss • The Barn Players, Inc.* Improv Company
Visiting Mr Green • The White Theatre
Who’s in Bed with the Butler • Paradise Playhouse The Night of the Assassins • The Mystery Train
Dinner Theatre Pete ‘n’ Keely • Quality Hill Playhouse
Prelude To A Kiss • The Barn Players, Inc.*
Visiting Mr Green • The White Theatre
Who’s in Bed with the Butler • Paradise Playhouse
Dinner Theatre
4 MON 5 TUE 8 FRI 9 SAT 10 SUN
Pete ‘n’ Keely • Quality Hill Playhouse The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee • The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee • The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee • The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee •
New Theatre Restaurant New Theatre Restaurant New Theatre Restaurant New Theatre Restaurant
37 Postcards • Corbin Theatre Company 37 Postcards • Corbin Theatre Company The 39 Steps • Theatre Atchison
The 39 Steps • Theatre Atchison The 39 Steps • Theatre Atchison And The Oscar Goes To... • Chestnut Fine Arts
6 WED 7 THU And The Oscar Goes To... • Chestnut Fine Arts And The Oscar Goes To... • Chestnut Fine Arts A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum •
The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee • The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee •
A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum • A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum • Metropolitan Ensemble Theatre
New Theatre Restaurant New Theatre Restaurant
Metropolitan Ensemble Theatre Metropolitan Ensemble Theatre Pete ‘n’ Keely • Quality Hill Playhouse
A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum • 37 Postcards • Corbin Theatre Company
Hula Heart • University of Central Missouri Theatre* The KC Improv Company’s Big Show • The KC Prelude To A Kiss • The Barn Players, Inc.*
Metropolitan Ensemble Theatre And The Oscar Goes To... • Chestnut Fine Arts
Little Red Riding Hood: A Newfangled Prairie Tale • Improv Company The Stinky Cheese Man • Paul Mesner Puppets*
Pete ‘n’ Keely • Quality Hill Playhouse A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum •
Kacico Dance The Night of the Assassins • The Mystery Train Sweeney Todd • The Theatre in the Park
The Stinky Cheese Man • Paul Mesner Puppets* Metropolitan Ensemble Theatre
The Night of the Assassins • The Mystery Train Pete ‘n’ Keely • Quality Hill Playhouse Visiting Mr Green • The White Theatre
Hula Heart • University of Central Missouri Theatre*
Pete ‘n’ Keely • Quality Hill Playhouse Prelude To A Kiss • The Barn Players, Inc.* Who’s in Bed with the Butler • Paradise Playhouse
Pete ‘n’ Keely • Quality Hill Playhouse
Prelude To A Kiss • The Barn Players, Inc.* The Stinky Cheese Man • Paul Mesner Puppets* Dinner Theatre
The Stinky Cheese Man • Paul Mesner Puppets*
The Stinky Cheese Man • Paul Mesner Puppets* Sweeney Todd • The Theatre in the Park
Visiting Mr Green • The White Theatre
Sweeney Todd • The Theatre in the Park Visiting Mr Green • The White Theatre
Who’s in Bed with the Butler • Paradise Playhouse Who’s in Bed with the Butler • Paradise Playhouse
Dinner Theatre Dinner Theatre
11 MON 12 TUE 15 FRI 16 SAT 17 SUN
Pete ‘n’ Keely • Quality Hill Playhouse The 25th Annual Spelling Bee • New Theatre The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee • The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee • The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee •
Pippi Longstocking • Theatre for Young America* New Theatre Restaurant New Theatre Restaurant New Theatre Restaurant
Hula Heart • University of Central Missouri Theatre* The Adventures of Pippi Longstocking • Theatre for The Adventures of Pippi Longstocking • Theatre for And The Oscar Goes To... • Chestnut Fine Arts
Young America* Young America* A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum •
And The Oscar Goes To... • Chestnut Fine Arts And The Oscar Goes To... • Chestnut Fine Arts Metropolitan Ensemble Theatre
13 WED 14 THU Dearly Beloved • Emporia State University Theatre Dearly Beloved • Emporia State University Theatre Pete ‘n’ Keely • Quality Hill Playhouse
The 25th Annual Spelling Bee • New Theatre The 25th Annual Spelling Bee • New Theatre

13. The Adventures of Pippi Longstocking • Theatre for The Adventures of Pippi Longstocking • Theatre for A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum • A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum • Prelude To A Kiss • The Barn Players, Inc.*
Young America* Young America* Metropolitan Ensemble Theatre Metropolitan Ensemble Theatre The Stinky Cheese Man • Paul Mesner Puppets*
Dearly Beloved • Emporia State University Theatre And The Oscar Goes To... • Chestnut Fine Arts Hula Heart • University of Central Missouri Theatre* The KC Improv Company’s Big Show • The KC Sweeney Todd • The Theatre in the Park
A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum • Dearly Beloved • Emporia State University Theatre Pete ‘n’ Keely • Quality Hill Playhouse Improv Company
Metropolitan Ensemble Theatre A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum • Prelude To A Kiss • The Barn Players, Inc.* Pete ‘n’ Keely • Quality Hill Playhouse
Pete ‘n’ Keely • Quality Hill Playhouse Metropolitan Ensemble Theatre The Stinky Cheese Man • Paul Mesner Puppets* Prelude To A Kiss • The Barn Players, Inc.*
The Stinky Cheese Man • Paul Mesner Puppets* Hula Heart • University of Central Missouri Theatre* Sweeney Todd • The Theatre in the Park The Stinky Cheese Man • Paul Mesner Puppets*
Pete ‘n’ Keely • Quality Hill Playhouse Who’s in Bed with the Butler • Paradise Playhouse Sweeney Todd • The Theatre in the Park
The Stinky Cheese Man • Paul Mesner Puppets* Dinner Theatre The Three Billy Goats Gruff • Puppetry Arts Institute
Sweeney Todd • The Theatre in the Park Who’s in Bed with the Butler • Paradise Playhouse
Who’s in Bed with the Butler • Paradise Playhouse Dinner Theatre
18 MON 19 TUE 22 FRI 23 SAT 24 SUN
NO PERFORMANCES 101 Dalmatians, Kids - Session # 1 • The Barn The Adventures of Pippi Longstocking • Theatre for The Adventures of Pippi Longstocking • Theatre for Legally Blonde • The Theatre in the Park
Players, Inc.* Young America* Young America* Once Upon a Mattress • The Coterie Theatre
The Adventures of Pippi Longstocking • Theatre for Legally Blonde • The Theatre in the Park The KC Improv Company’s Big Show • The KC Pete ‘n’ Keely • Quality Hill Playhouse
Young America* Once Upon a Mattress • The Coterie Theatre Improv Company The Stinky Cheese Man • Paul Mesner Puppets*
Once Upon a Mattress • The Coterie Theatre Pete ‘n’ Keely • Quality Hill Playhouse Legally Blonde • The Theatre in the Park
Pete ‘n’ Keely • Quality Hill Playhouse The Stinky Cheese Man • Paul Mesner Puppets* Once Upon a Mattress • The Coterie Theatre
Pete ‘n’ Keely • Quality Hill Playhouse
The Stinky Cheese Man • Paul Mesner Puppets*
20 WED 21 THU
101 Dalmatians, Kids - Session # 1 • The Barn 101 Dalmatians, Kids - Session # 1 • The Barn
Players, Inc.* Players, Inc.*
The Adventures of Pippi Longstocking • Theatre for The Adventures of Pippi Longstocking • Theatre for
Young America* Young America*
Once Upon a Mattress • The Coterie Theatre Once Upon a Mattress • The Coterie Theatre
Pete ‘n’ Keely • Quality Hill Playhouse Pete ‘n’ Keely • Quality Hill Playhouse
The Stinky Cheese Man • Paul Mesner Puppets* The Stinky Cheese Man • Paul Mesner Puppets*
25 MON 26 TUE 29 FRI 30 SAT 1 SUN
NO PERFORMANCES The Adventures of Pippi Longstocking • Theatre for The Adventures of Pippi Longstocking • Theatre for The Adventures of Pippi Longstocking • Theatre for Legally Blonde • The Theatre in the Park
Young America* Young America* Young America* Once Upon a Mattress • The Coterie Theatre
Once Upon a Mattress • The Coterie Theatre The Fox on the Fairway • Emporia State University The Fox on the Fairway • Emporia State University Pete ‘n’ Keely • Quality Hill Playhouse
Pete ‘n’ Keely • Quality Hill Playhouse Theatre Theatre The Stinky Cheese Man • Paul Mesner Puppets*
Legally Blonde • The Theatre in the Park The KC Improv Company’s Big Show • The KC
Once Upon a Mattress • The Coterie Theatre Improv Company
27 WED 28 THU Pete ‘n’ Keely • Quality Hill Playhouse Legally Blonde • The Theatre in the Park
AUDITIONS
The Adventures of Pippi Longstocking • Theatre for The Adventures of Pippi Longstocking • Theatre for JUN 1 • Christian Youth Theatre
The Stinky Cheese Man • Paul Mesner Puppets* Pete ‘n’ Keely • Quality Hill Playhouse
Young America* Young America* JUN 2-3, 9-10 • The Barn Players
The Stinky Cheese Man • Paul Mesner Puppets*
The Fox on the Fairway • Emporia State University The Fox on the Fairway • Emporia State University JUN 4-6 • River City Community Players
Theatre Theatre JUN 9-11 • The Theatre Gym
Once Upon a Mattress • The Coterie Theatre Legally Blonde • The Theatre in the Park JUN 18 • The Culture House
Pete ‘n’ Keely • Quality Hill Playhouse Once Upon a Mattress • The Coterie Theatre
The Stinky Cheese Man • Paul Mesner Puppets* Pete ‘n’ Keely • Quality Hill Playhouse
The Stinky Cheese Man • Paul Mesner Puppets*
*Affiliate Theatres offer discount tickets to subscribers of KC Stage. Display your membership card at the box office or mention it when ordering tickets over the phone. For a list of discounts and other offers, visit www.kcstage.com/affiliates. Don’t forget to rate the show you see online!

14.  Performances
continued from page 12
Alliance, 2018 Baltimore Avenue, (816) 421- Puppetry Arts Institute Theatre Atchison
1388, www.maaa.org The 39 Steps by Adapted by Patrick Bar-
Piccadilly Productions
low: Jun 1-10: 8 pm Fri-Sat; 2 pm Sun
The Three Billy Goats Gruff: Jun 16:
$10 adults; $6 students. Theatre Atchison,
Music Theatre for Young People 2 pm, 11 am Sat
401 Santa Fe St, (913) 367-7469, www.
Chicago: Jun 2-3: 7:30 pm Sat; Young Billy goat Gunther Gruff, has a fear
theatreatchison.org
2:30 pm Sun problem. You might say he has fearophobia,
http://www.umkc.edu/adminservices/cto/ or phobophobia, if you will. Will a run-in with
events/umkc-theatre.asp for tickets. Directed by the hungry troll Dagmar cure him? And where is Theatre for Young America*
Cary Pandzik and Matthew Allen. $15. UMKC Dagmar’s lunch bag? The show features audi- The Adventures of Pippi Longstocking by
White Recital Hall, 4949 Cherry, (913) 341- ence participation, storytelling, and more of Gene Mackey: Jun 12-30: 12 pm Thr-
8156, www.mtyp.org Piccadilly’s trademark puns and song numbers Fri; 10 am Tue-Fri; 7 pm Fri; 2 pm Sat
keep the kids attention riveted. Directed by Lisa Pippi is a high-spirited, warm-hearted incar-
Albright. $5. Puppetry Arts Institute, 11025 E nation of every child’s dream of freedom and
The Mystery Train Winner Rd, (816) 833-9777, www.hazelle.org power. With her unusual red braids of hair and
The Night of the Assassins by Wendy strange clothing, she is a young lass of unusual
Thompson: Apr 20-Jun 9: 6:30 pm strength. Though Pippi astounds people with her
Fri-Sat Quality Hill Playhouse physical strength, she never uses her ability to
In 1893, two of the finest from the wild, wild, Pete ‘n’ Keely: Jun 1-Jul 1: 8 pm Sun-
harm anyone. Rollicking adventures abound in
west are called in on a special mission to pro- Sat; 3 pm Sat-Sun; 1 pm Wed-Thr
her life in Villa Villekula where she lives alone
tect the President. They are met with modern You are the live studio audience of the
with her horse and pet monkey while her pirate
ideas, social reform, steam-powered mecha- 1968 television special reuniting “America’s
dad is sailing the South Seas. Directed by Gene
nisms, and an array of assassins. A delicate swingin’ sweethearts” Pete Bartel and Keely
Mackey. $8; group discounts available. Theatre
situation, to say the least ... and then a murder Stevens in this hilarious spoof chock full of
for Young America, H & R Block City Stage at
happens! Directed by Wendy Thompson. $64 American standards (“Fever”, “Lover”, “But
Union Station, (816) 460-2083, www.tya.org C
each. The Golden Ox, 1600 Genessee, (816) Beautiful”) and eye-popping costumes! $29
813-9654, A adults; $26 seniors/students. Quality Hill Play-
house, 303 W 10th St, (816) 421-1700, www. Unicorn Theatre
QualityHillPlayhouse.com Everyday Rapture by Dick Scanlan and
New Theatre Restaurant Sherie Renee Scott: May 16-Jun 3: 8 pm
The 25th Annual Putnam County Spell- Fri-Sat; 3 pm Sun; 7:30 pm Tue-Thr
ing Bee by Rebecca Feldman, Rachel The Theatre in the Park A semi-autobiographical stage memoir by She-
Sheinkin, William Finn, & Jay Reiss: Legally Blonde by Laurence O’Keefe,
rie Rene Scott, this is the story of a woman’s
Apr 5-Jun 17: 12 pm Sat-Sun, Wed; Nell Benjamin, and Heather Hach:
psycho-sexual-spiritual journey that separates
6 pm Tue-Sun Jun 22-Jul 1: 8:30 pm Thr-Sun
her mostly Mennonite past from her mostly
Directed by Joe R Fox III. $22.95 - $37.20. Sorority star Elle Woods doesn’t take “no” for
Manhattan future. She travels from Topeka,
New Theatre Restaurant, 9229 Foster St, www. an answer. So when her boyfriend dumps her
Kan, to New York City with a disturbing detour
newtheatre.com A for someone “serious”, Elle puts down the
through YouTube. Filled with familiar tunes, this
credit card, hits the books, and sets out to go
musical follows Sherie’s road to Broadway
where no Delta Nu has gone before: Harvard
Paradise Playhouse Dinner Theatre Law. Along the way, Elle proves that being true
semi-stardom. This is the first production in
Who’s in Bed with the Butler by Michael the nation since Sherie premiered the show
to yourself never goes out of style. Directed
Parker: May 25-Jun 16: 6 pm Fri-Sat; on Broadway. Directed by Jerry Jay Cranford.
by Greg Shaw. Prices vary. The Theatre in the
7 pm Thr; 12 pm Sun $27.50 - $37.50. Unicorn Theatre, 3828 Main
Park, 7710 Renner Rd, (913) 236-1237, www.
Directed by Larry Tesar. $30 - $32. Paradise St, (816) 531-7529, www.unicorntheatre.org A
theatreinthepark.org A
Playhouse Dinner Theatre, 101 Spring St, (816)
630-3333, www.paradiseplayhouse.org A Sweeney Todd by Stephen Sondheim UCM Theatre*
and Hugh Wheeler: Jun 8-17: 8:30 pm Central Missouri Repertory
Paul Mesner Puppets* Thr-Sun Hula Heart by Velina Hasu Houston:
The Stinky Cheese Man by Jon Scieszka: This chilling, suspenseful, heart-pounding mas- Jun 15: 10 am Tue, Thr-Fri
Jun 6-Jul 1: 2 pm Sat-Sun; 11 am terpiece of murderous barber-ism and culinary “Hula Heart” is the story of a young boy from
Wed-Sat; 1:30 pm Wed-Fri crime tells of the unjustly exiled barber who Hawaii who moves to California and is faced
Adapted from the wildly popular book by Jon returns to 19th century London seeking revenge with the dilemma of maintaining his native
Scieszka and Lane Smith, this rip-roaring fairy- against the lecherous judge who framed him roots or embracing a new and different culture.
tale adventure is loads of fun for all ages. and ravaged his young wife. His thirst for blood With a cast of fantastic characters, beautiful
You’ll have fun with Jack, the narrator, as he soon expands to his unfortunate customers, hula dancing, and a message of being true to
takes you through the twists and turns of this and the resourceful proprietress of the pie oneself, this is an unforgettable performance
wacky tale, which contains zany versions of shop downstairs soon has people lining up that you won’t want to miss! Featuring Jus-
storybook classics! Directed by Paul Mesner. for her mysterious new meat pies! Directed by tin Barron, Adam Tucker, Angie Benson, and
$7 for children; $9 for adults. PMP Studio, Mark Swezey. Prices vary. The Theatre in the Miranda Powers. Whiteman AFB Community
1006 E Linwood Blvd, (816) 235-6222, www. Park, 7710 Renner Rd, (913) 236-1237, www. Center, Building 528, (660) 543-8811, www.
paulmesnerpuppets.org theatreinthepark.org A ucmo.edu/theatre
12 KCSTAGE “If you really want to help the American theater, don’t be an actress, dahling. Be an audience.” ~ Tallulah Bankhead

15.  Performances Events Film Clips
www.kcstage.com/events by Larry Levenson
The White Theatre Christian Youth Theater Gary Huggins raised $70,000 to make his first
Visiting Mr. Green by Jeff Baron: May 31- LOGOS Dance Theatre Fairy Tale Ballet full-length movie entitled Kick Me. Starring in
Jun 10: 7:30 pm Sat, Thr; 2 pm Sun Camp: Jun 18-22: 9 am Mon-Fri the movie will be Kansas City, Kan., policeman
Directed by Mark Swezey. The Lewis and Shirley Your little princess will learn basic dance tech- Santiago Vasquez, and plans are to shoot it
White Theatre, 5801 West 115 Street, (913) nique, make fun crafts, and enjoy tasty treats. in the KC area.
327-8054, www.jcckc.org A (Ages 4 - 7) All princesses get to take home A national Wal-Mart commercial was sched-
their own camp t-shirt and tutu! See your bal- uled to be shot in KC, and SAG/AFTRA extras
lerina shine at the Parent Show on Friday, June were being sought.
Coming in July 22 at 11:30AM. Camp runs 9AM - noon each
day. CYT Offices, 6800A W 153rd St., (913) Rural western Kansas is the setting for a hor-
Blue Springs City Theatre* 681-3318, www.cytkc.org ror movie to be shot over the summer. Crew
Willy Wonka the Musical in nearly every department is needed, so if
Winnie the Pooh Theater Arts Camp for you are interested, visit www.rabidlovemovie.
Paradise Playhouse Dinner Theatre ages 4-5: Jun 4-Aug 3: 9 am Mon-Fri
Over the River and Through the Woods com or www.facebook.com/rabidlovemovie
Join CYT Kansas City as we act, sing and dance for information.
by Joe DiPietro our way through the Hundred Acre Wood with
Puppetry Arts Institute this exciting summer camp for pre-schoolers. A call went out for extras for a print project.
Salt N’ Patter Puppets and Brementown Christopher Robin, Winnie the Pooh, Eeyore, The client was a regional KC bank.
Musicians Piglet, Owl, Rabbit and Tigger will come along
Bryan Blakey (Crime Family, Nine Grounds) is
on our journey. Crafts and snacks are part
Randomosity Productions, LLC looking for someone to play the lead female
of the fun! Camps are half days at various
CRISSCROSS by Mark Katzman role of Mary in the movie PMS COP. The movie
locations throughout the Kansas City metro.
will be shot in Springfield, Mo. If you are inter-
Summit Theatre Group Each camp is one week long. (913) 681-3318,
ested, visit his website, www.pmscop.com, to
The Music Man by Meredith Wilson www.cytkc.org
get his contact information. Requirements for
The Theatre in the Park the role are: needs to be athletic, talented
Disney’s Sleeping Beauty Kids Jewell Theatre Company* actress, available May, June, and July.
Disney’s The Jungle Book Kids Jewell Theatre Camp: Jun 17-22: 1 am
Urinetown by Mark Hollman, Greg Kotis TLC channel is casting for a new documentary
Sun-Fri
series about extreme money savers. If you have
Theatre for Young America* One Week Residential Theatre Camp for High
been described as cheap or frugal, contact
Fair Ball: Negro Leagues in America by School Students! For more information and to
TLCCastingshow@gmail.com, where you can
Gene Mackey register go to: www.jewell.edu/theatrecamp.
describe your extraordinary money-saving tech-
Peters Theater, Brown Hall, (816) 415-7588,
The White Theatre niques.
theatre@william.jewell.edu R
The King & I by Rodgers & Hammerstein R Writer/director Jordan Essary is looking for
actors to be in his new Christian short movie
entitled “The Tree House”. The movie is set to go
into production during the month of August in
Missouri. Jordan is looking for boys ages 8-10,
and girls ages 13-15. Contact Jordan Essary
at: (361)443-2922, conceptoneproductions@
yahoo.com, or www.conceptoneproductions.
com/the_tree_house_casting_call.
Wright/Laird Casting was looking for a late-
40’s Caucasian woman with short, blonde hair
for TV commercial.
Auditions and call-back were held at Wright/
Laird Casting for a Missouri Lottery commercial
to be shot in KC. R
Are you a filmmaker in the KC area and want
to submit news about your production to KC
Stage? E-mail Larry at llevenson@kcstage.com
before the 10th.
www.kcstage.com JUNE 2012 13

16. View from the Bench: Two Weeks as a Reality Show Drama Critic
by Kelly Luck
“AUTHENTIC BOXING”, proclaims the sign outside some exciting performers down there that he feels would
the building as I pull up, emblazoned above a silhouette be ideal for the KC Fringe Festival, so the trip was worth
raising its gloved hands in triumph. For a moment, I it. Next to him: Edward Einhorn, playwright and artistic
wonder if I am at the right place. But no, around the director of New York’s “Untitled Theatre Company #61,”
corner of the building, a more modest sign is hung by down for the weekend to lend his insights. He’s a pleasant
the door: “Project Playwright”. It is this that has brought fellow, active in children’s and Jewish theatre, as well as
me down to the West Bottoms on a balmy Saturday being the driving force behind the yearly Ionesco festival.
night. The parking lot is beginning to fill up already, I make a note to talk to him after the taping.
and a few people are standing outside, catching the last The three of us are placed at a table in front of the
rays of dying sunshine before the show begins. audience, overlooking the black-curtained area that
David Hanson breaks off from the group, hurries serves as a simple performance space. Tonight, the stage
forward to shake my hand. “We’re just up the stairs,” is set with some airline seats the photography studio
he says, guiding me and a few others up a darkened uses for advertising shots. Behind us, the audience seats
stairwell, past a headless mannequin and gradually fill with excited playgoers: some
into a wide open space. During the week, to root for a particular playwright, others
we are told, it is a working photo studio; Playwrights just here for the show. Behind the stage area
but for the next two weekends it will be Peter Bakely in the makeshift green-room-cum-dormi-
the temporary home of what may well be Bryan Colley tory, final preparations are being made.
Kansas City’s first homegrown reality show. Allie Jordan During the weekend, the playwrights live
The brainchild of Hanson and Erich Michael Ruth and work in this area, but now it’s full of
McGrew, the show takes the classic “talent Vicky Vodrey actors and directors doing the last minute
show” format and brings it into the theatre prep that always comes before curtain-rise.
world. Five local playwrights have been Directors All around us, serious-minded students
selected: over the next two weeks, they will Victor Hentzen with black shirts and expensive cameras
produce plays to order, with stringent condi- Liz Nelson check and double check their equipment.
tions and a merciless deadline. And then, one And then, the show begins.
Jill Szoo
by one, each play will be given its premiere David steps out on stage, welcoming the
performance before a live audience and a Winner audience and getting straight into the rules.
panel of judges. Which is where I come in. Bryan Colley Five playwrights have been chosen: for each
“It’s kind of like American Idol, X-Factor, of four nights, three of them will compete
that sort of thing.” It’s two months earlier, for a spot in the fourth and final round.
and I’m sitting in an Indian restaurant with Twenty-four hours previously, they were
David. He’s been in touch with KC Stage, wanting some- each given an assignment for a ten-minute play. They
one with a critic’s perspective on the judging panel. A had twelve hours to finish the script, and the actors and
quick flurry of e-mails has resulted in this meeting in directors had twelve hours to put a production together.
which he explains the details. “All you have to do is Sound and light cues are sparse, props and stagecraft
show up, watch the plays, talk a little about what you minimal. There are no catchy songs to save them, no
liked and didn’t like about them. Sound fun?” Indeed elaborate sets, no falling chandeliers. This is storytell-
it does. And so, on a balmy spring night with precision ing at its purist. And we are here to watch it happen.
chaos all around me, we prepare for the show. The first round is titled “Farce at 24,000 Feet”. The
As zero hour approaches, David introduces me to my playwrights are given three actors in four airline seats.
fellow judges: Bob Paisley, actor, director, co-founder of They must create a play that follows the rules of farce
the Metropolitan Ensemble Theatre. He’s just returned in the space of ten minutes. And since this is apparently
to town from Australia, where he went to escape what not brutal enough, a final condition has been added: each
turned out to be the mildest winter in years. Still, he found character must change seats no less than three times,
14 KCSTAGE “If there is a gun hanging on the wall in the first act, it must fire in the last.” ~ Anton Chekhov

17.  View from the Bench
continued from page 14
and end in the seats in which they began. Daunting, to ups inherent in the ghost that they easily qualified as
say the least. farce even without trying to. Really, the only one that
The plays are performed for us, one after another. didn’t work for me was one which seemed to pin its
Their names are given simply as A, B, and C, so we are comedic hopes on a set of “swishy” gay stereotypes
given no hint as to authorship. The three performances that were outdated in the previous century (a feather
were all quite humorous, handling the seat-juggling boa? seriously?).
aspects with skill. At the end of each, David came back Nevertheless, when the dust was cleared, our third
and asked us our opinion. It was generally agreed they winner was pronounced. We had three playwrights left
were strong in the comedy, though there was some now. Three to contend in one final round.
disagreement among us as to whether one or two of After the episode proper, I stayed behind (as had
the entries had actually constituted farce per se. In the become my habit), talking with the other guests,
end, we ranked our favorites, and the audience ranked swapping notes with the actors, and watching as they
theirs. The winner of the round was announced, the prepared for the last scene-off. This bit, not part of the
audience was invited back for the next round on the show proper, was judged after the main event: a sort of
following evening, and the show ended. Judges, actors, lightning round. The three writers for the next round
and audience members mingled in the studio, talking were given a topic, as usual, but then given six minutes
about the plays and theatre scene in general. Backstage, to create a sixty-second piece. The scripts were then
the writers for the next episode were brought together, handed to the actors, who performed them in a cold
and given their assignment. read in front of a single judge. They tended to be quick,
The next evening found me back in the chair, set- simple concepts: dueling furniture appraisers, creating
tling in for a trio of dramas: three people were to gather a help wanted ad for the worst job imaginable, that sort
together, with one revealing a secret that would change of thing. Tonight’s theme was the biggest “I Told You
the relationship between all three forever. If that weren’t So” ever. Ted was in the hot seat for this one, I having
enough, the story had to be told nonlinearly. This in done the one before. David later confided to me that
particular proved to be an interesting aspect, and the this was his favorite part of the show. It was easy to
one that brought the most intrigue to the storylines: one see why: coming up with a coherent story and telling
entry went so far as to include five separate scenes in it in that brief period of time is no mean feat. That they
the allotted time. If the exact sequence of events was were able to accomplish it at all is a testament to the
uncertain, it was nonetheless an impressive bit of sto- caliber of talent we had contending.
rytelling for all that. It was interesting to note at the Sunday. The final round. Ted and I are joined at the
end of the evening that all three entrants started at the judges’ table by Valerie Mackey, associate artistic direc-
end, and built up the story behind them. Again, three tor at Theatre for Young America. She apologizes for
strong contenders, and we went to a strict definition of not joining us the night before; her calendar only had
the rules to make our final decision. her down for tonight. Still, no harm done and we saved
The next week brought a new set of challenges and her a seat. The room fills quickly, fuller than I’ve seen it.
a new set of judges. Saturday night, it was just myself The preliminary rounds are over with: this is where the
and UKMC head of acting (MFA) Ted Swetz, an affable cream of the crop lock horns. After this, there is only one.
man in with gray hair and a shaggy beard (not his own, David comes out, as is his custom, and goes over the
he explained: he was playing Shylock outdoors in Iowa rules. They’re more or less the same as they have been,
City this summer and stick-on beards and hot summer but with one significant twist: over the last three rounds,
nights don’t mix). This evening we were back to comedy: if there was a tie between the audience and judges,
a meeting in an office between two people, and a ghost the judges would cast the deciding vote. Tonight, with
that only one of them can see. This proved fertile ground everything down to the wire, it is the audience that gets
for our contestants, and we had three very funny entries. the final say. He jokes that this is so that at the end of
Interestingly, all three took such advantage of the mix Continued on page 16
www.kcstage.com JUNE 2012 15

18. Blue Star Awards  View From the Bench
continued from page 15
On May 24, the 10th annual Blue Star the night we judges can get to our make sure. But after what seems a
Awards were presented at Starlight cars in safety, but in fact it strikes me small eternity, the three writers are
Theatre. The program recognizes as absolutely appropriate and right: led out to the stage, and the final
outstanding achievement in musical after all, directors can guide the winner is announced. Five hundred
theatre production and performance performance with their knowledge dollars to go toward the produc-
among high school students. The and experience, teachers can guide tion of one of their original works.
program’s goal remains bringing creative and performing talents to Champagne in the green room.
together high school musical theatre greater use of their gifts. Critics can Last shots. The serious-minded
programs in metropolitan Kansas focus on the positives and negatives students in black pack away their
City and outlying areas to recog- and provide (we hope) thoughtful gear. Tomorrow morning, the space
nize and celebrate outstanding talent commentary on what makes great goes back to being a working photo
among the area youth. By participat- theatre great. But in the end, it is studio. As I walk through the back
ing in the Blue Star Awards Program, the audience that decides. What room, already the beds and living
students receive feedback from is remembered, what is forgotten. arrangements have been removed.
working professionals and interact What tears at the heart, what fills No more overnighters here.
on a creative level with their high it with laughter. What is forgotten, We mingle and chat as the world
school peers from across the metro- and what stays with you forever. is packed away around us, the fanta-
politan area. For more information, Tonight, the theme is “Black Box syland of the theatre giving way in
including a list of all the nominees, Family”: three players, a few chairs, a slow dissolve into the real world.
visit http://kea.nu/bluestar. and ten minutes. No limitations to The fun part is over: now comes
genre, no special tricks, no traps. weeks of editing, boiling down the
Outstanding Overall Production: This is time for the playwrights to endless hours of behind-the-scenes
Blue Valley High School, Crazy for shine, to show what they are really drama and final performances to a
You capable of. And this they do. As coherent whole. A YouTube release
Outstanding Artistic Contribu- we watch the three productions, it is expected, and then ... who knows?
tion by a Student: Abigail Karnes, occurs to me that this is easily the There is talk of marketing the idea,
Kearney High School, Direction, most difficult round we’ve had. Pre- possibly to one of the artier cable
Music Direction, Choreography viously, you could count on there channels. We linger, not quite will-
Outstanding Orchestra: Olathe being one or two standouts, but ing to break the final bond. Still, it’s
East High School, The Who’s Tommy when all three performances are a work day in the morning, and the
Outstanding Scenic Design, Tier standouts, making that final deci- prosaic world beckons.
I: Winnetonka High School, Seussical sion becomes an enormous task. We As I step out into the balmy night
Outstanding Scenic Design, Tier at the judges table confer in hushed air for the last time, I turn and look
II: Liberty North High School, Oliver! whispers. Consensus does not back at the building, now bathed
Outstanding Lighting Design: appear to be forthcoming. Behind in streetlamp yellow. I see the sign
Winnetonka High School, Seussical us, the audience is also uncertain. again: the boxer still raising his
Outstanding Technical Crew: Eventually, however, we make our hands in triumph. And beside him,
Lighting Crew, Olathe East High decision, and settle back. The antici- the words “Greatness Will Not Be
School, The Who’s Tommy pation is electric: up until now, I’d Denied!” Indeed. R
Outstanding Costume Design, always had a pretty good idea who
Tier I: Winnetonka High School, would win each round. Tonight, I Kelly Luck is a writer and photogra-
Seussical am just another member of the audi- pher. Her hobbies are centered around
Outstanding Costume Design, ence, on the edge of my seat. theatre, cinema, and being the last
Tier II: Lee’s Summit West High The tallying is close. Very close. person you’d ever expect to take part
Continued on page 18 In fact, they had to recount just to in a reality show.
16 KCSTAGE

19.  Hanging Fringe on the Arch
continued from page 4
and this real hunger for things that are new and things cess was unjuried. “We intentionally did 20 local artists
that are visceral and things that really push the status and 10 national artists,” Piro says. “We could’ve filled up
quo and really challenge what is it to make art and entirely with local artists if we had not set that restric-
what is it to have a distinct culture and what is it that tion. We filled up our local slots within five minutes of
we have that defines that. And there’s a lot of passion opening them up. It was really surprising.” Of those
that already exists in the city. So being able to tap into national artists, one is Kansas City native Brother John.
that has been huge.” Unlike the KC Fringe Festival, it’s primarily focused on
Piro intentionally gave herself a relatively short dead- performing arts. “But we’ve defined performing arts
line. “I know in the creative world people can often fall by the artists’ definition,” Piro says. “I said, ‘If you can
into the trap of planning, planning, planning — having make a case that it’s performing arts, it’s going in.’ So,
all these wonderful ideas and then they never flesh out. it’s not just theatre, which I know some fringes can be
And setting that short term deadline partly had to do heavily theatre based. Ours is actually a really good
with this wave of creativity that is going on right now balance between theatre, dance, experimental, perfor-
and this wave of cultural thriving, and it also had to do mance art, slam poetry, storytelling, kind of vaudeville
with just recognizing if we’re going to do this, we’re — we’ve got a really, really wide range of work, which
going to do it now, we’re going to do it right, and we’re is really good.”
going to commit to it.” For the first year, Piro’s main goal is to just connect
She delved headfirst into researching the fringe with St. Louis audiences. “Our tagline is ‘Brave Artists,
model, which brought her in contact with the Chicago Bold Audiences’,” she says, “and what I’ve said is that
Fringe Festival, now in its third year. She sat down with if we have an audience member come to see one show,
the organizers to pick their brains, and they in turn maybe the same company that they already know or to
suggested she go to the conference for United States see a friend in the show or something like that, and they
Association of Fringe Festivals, which in turn led her to see their show, and they think, ‘You know, as long as
connect with Cheryl Kimmi of the Kansas City Fringe I’m here, and as long as I have this little button, maybe
Festival. “I contacted the director of [the Association of I’ll stick around and see something else.’ And they stick
Fringe Festivals], and asked her about it, and she men- around and they see something that they never, ever
tioned, ‘Well, there’s a fringe festival already going on would have gone and they enjoy it, then we’ve done
in Kansas City, which is reasonably close to St. Louis our job.”
— are you sure you want to do this?’ And I said, ‘Well, As to why people are behind it now when there
I don’t want to step on anybody’s toes.’ But Kansas City didn’t seem to be much support in 2007, Piro is sure
is not that close to St. Louis. I mean, I’ve never been to that the economy is a big factor. “Whereas people before
Kansas City actually. But when I got to the conference, really didn’t want to share their resources, now they
I made a point to talk to Cheryl and the other folks that have to and they’re learning that that’s okay,” she says
were there representing Kansas City Fringe, and asked with a laugh. However, she also attributes the support to
them, ‘Is this okay? I mean, we’re both in Missouri.’ But the Kevin Kline Awards, a local theatre award program.
they totally agreed with us — they were like, ‘All this is “We get all excited about them,” she continues, “and that
going to do is help the fringe theme. We’re here to sup- led to just an explosion of the theatre scene here. And
port each other.’ And Cheryl — she really lives the whole it’s the people getting mutually excited about something
mission of fringe. She’s so giving and so supportive of that they can share, you know? It’s surprising, because
new ventures and totally accessible and always ready you think that it would make people more competitive,
for a word of advice. The mentorship that we’ve gotten and of course in some ways it has. But at the same time,
from Kansas City — I mean, without it, I don’t know it’s also given people something to share and a reason to
what we would’ve done. It would’ve been a lot harder.” engage with each other and to communicate with each
For their first year, the St. Louis Fringe Festival is five other and to really look at what are we producing and
days long with 30 groups — and, as is typical, the pro- Continued on page 18
www.kcstage.com JUNE 2012 17

20.  Blue Star Awards  Gladstone Theatre in the Park Celebrates 25 Years
continued from page 16 continued from page 3
School, Joseph and the Amazing Tech- closer together. For example, three asked to bring their own blankets
nicolor Dreamcoat generations of Ibsens are involved or chairs to sit on which, of course,
Outstanding Hair and Makeup in shows on a regular basis. “This cannot be placed before the blanket
Design: Winnetonka High School, theatre gives me the opportunity run at 3 pm. Anyone wishing to
Seussical to work with my wife Susie, my volunteer is encouraged to contact
Outstanding Technical Achieve- daughter Cameo, and my grand- Sheila Lillis at the City of Gladstone
ment: Shawnee Mission North High children, Evan, Noah, and Roxy or the advisory board via www.glad-
School, Cedwan Hooks, Puppet on musicals and meet so many dif- stonetip.com. R
Design and Creation ferent people that also love doing
Outstanding Ensemble: Blue Val- theatre,” said Van. Becky Clark, one Jamie Lin is a local actress and an
ley High School, Crazy for You of the advisory board members, also avid collector of all things Beauty
Outstanding Actress in a Lead mentioned the effect GTIP has on and the Beast.
Role: Brooke Myers as Miss Ade- her family. “[I hope] it continues to
laide, Lee’s Summit High School, be a vibrant, full-fledged commu-
Guys and Dolls nity theater, supported by the city  Hanging Fringe on the Arch
continued from page 17
Outstanding Actor in a Lead and its citizens so we can all enjoy
Role: Tyler Eisenreich as Jimmy performing, viewing and participat- why are we producing it and what
Smith, Blue Springs High School, ing in any way we can — now my we’re bringing to the community.”
Thoroughly Modern Millie grandkids come to see and enjoy the It’s that community connection
Outstanding Actress in a Fea- shows — the tradition lives on!” that really draws Piro to the concept
tured Role: Haley Crane as Paulette Gladstone Theatre in the Park of fringe, which connects to what
Buonufonte, Raymore-Peculiar High would like to invite you to join them draws her to theatre itself and her
School, Legally Blonde the Musical in celebrating their 25th year. The ‘day job’ of working with social ser-
Outstanding Actor in a Featured official party, aptly themed “It’s a vices. “Having that background in
Role: Ben Johnson as Orin Scriv- Family Reunion”, will be held on social service: my main focus is on
ello, Shawnee Mission North High August 4 from 5 pm to 8 pm. There what does culture have to do with
School, Little Shop of Horrors will be lots of family friendly activi- impacting the community and
Outstanding Female Ensemble ties, a performance from the North impacting people’s ability to live
Member: Kelly Phelan as Miss Star Community Band, and a cer- a good life, which I think fringe
Krumholtz, Lee’s Summit North emony celebrating the Ibsens and fits in really well for. I really see
High School, How to Succeed in Busi- all of those who have ever been it more as a community develop-
ness Without Really Trying involved in a show. All former cast ment tool than as an arts thing, if
Outstanding Male Ensemble and crew members are encouraged that makes sense, because culture
Member: Bobby Turnbough as to attend so that they can be recog- is community — the arts very much
Nikos Argitakos, Raymore-Pecu- nized. Even if you can’t make it to the make up culture, and making those
liar High School, Legally Blonde the party, be sure to catch a performance arts accessible is what gives people
Musical of each of the two shows sched- a sense of community identity and
2012 Rising Star Scholarship uled to be performed. Hello, Dolly! cultural identity.” R
Award for a Young Woman, directed by Jennifer Kessler, can be
Savannah Bell, Shawnee Mission seen on July 6, 7, and 8 and Joseph The St. Lou Fringe is a five day fes-
Northwest and the Amazing Technicolor Dream tival from June 21 — 25, with three
2012 Rising Star Scholarship Coat, directed by Danielle Trebus, on venues and over 100 performances in
Award for a Young Man, Alex August 3, 4, and 5. All performances midtown St. Louis. For more infor-
Petersen, Blue Valley R begin at 8:30 pm with free general mation, visit www.stlfringe.com or
admission. Audience members are call 314-643-STLF.
18 KCSTAGE

21.  Heart of America Shakespeare Festival: 20 Years Under the Stars
continued from page 7
an astonished Garrett noticed that the actors performing it raises goes back into the next season. Garrett spends
on an overhead scaffold above the stage were consum- most of her time coordinating administrative and finan-
ing Gatorade and popsicles — apparently stashed in a cial activities: writing grants, raising funds, soliciting
concealed cooler. She then saw them silently offer — and sponsors, marketing, creating a budget, and doing an
toss — popsicles down to the performers acting below. annual audit. The festival holds one gala fundraiser
Initially shocked, she soon discovered that because of the every February, sometimes supplemented by smaller
triple-digit temperatures, the stage manager had given events. This fall, selected festival artists will collaborate
them permission to eat and drink on stage. Backstage, with the Bach Aria Soloists to combine Shakespeare’s
some actors sneak a round of Frisbee in their off-time, text with orchestral music. The education department,
though Garrett dreads they will twist an ankle on the headed by Kara Armstrong, offers summer camps, work-
uneven park terrain or get whacked in the head. shops, and year-round school programs, and Strauss
Wild animals are another challenge. Southmoreland is particularly proud of their success. A new festival
Park was originally named Squirrel Park, and squir- ambassador, an outsized, costumed interpretation of
rels have a propensity for raining down walnuts in Shakespeare known as “Good Will,” travels to com-
the wooded green patch behind the stage. During one munity events and connects with children and families.
particularly rowdy performance last summer, a squir- After 20 seasons, the Heart of America Shakespeare
rel leaped from a tree into the audience. Then, halfway Festival is still outdoors, professional, and free, but it
through the second act, stage manager Jinni Pike and has grown and evolved from its infancy when the stage,
sound designer Rusty Wandall discovered a possum erected at the north end of the park, faced due south and
nestled among the cables in the back of the sound board mounted policemen patrolled on horseback. Given the
case. The show went on without a hitch, but they had opportunity to begin again, Strauss says, “I wouldn’t
to prevent it from escaping until the performance con- do anything differently.” Shakespeare is “the greatest
cluded and the park cleared. storyteller that ever lived,” and “the festival has brought
With only three year-round employees, the festival me more fulfillment, more joy, and more pleasure than
operates on a very tight budget and most of the money Broadway.” 
Thomas Canfield is the drama-
doug hamer
turge for the Heart of America
Shakespeare Festival and an
instructor of theatre, English,
and humanities.
sidonie garrett
Mark Robbins and Jason Chanos in Romeo and Juliet.
www.kcstage.com JUNE 2012 19

22.  Spotlight on Marcus Mull
continued from page 2
Extra! Murder All About It! The Mystery Train helped business like a for profit theatre business. We use our
me realize I could think on my feet and improvise in earned income to pay bills, pay the staff, and produce
front of an audience. It also helped me realize I could shows. We know the ultimate payoff is that we can
learn a lot of lines in a short amount of time. Working perform all the time shows that we create.
at the Mystery Train was a stepping stone for my work
at the Martin City Melodrama & Vaudeville. What are your next shows?
The theatre begins its 17th year of comedy camp June 11.
When did you start to work for the Martin City Melo- I am thrilled to get to learn how to throw a cream pie and
drama? work with the students. Our Martin City, Jr. production
Two days after my first rehearsal with the Mystery of Rumpelstilskin....Recycled!?! is being extended through
Train, I auditioned for Martin City Melodrama. After July 31. We are going to start casting for our original
checking my references, you offered me a lead role in holiday 2012 show that I will be directing. Auditions
the Christmas show playing eight different characters. will be set with actors calling me at the theatre and/or
You also offered me part-time work beginning in Sep- sending me a resume by July 1.
tember. I accepted. I was working at the Mystery Train
and Martin City Melodrama at the same time. I was Anything else?
literally running two different directions. By November, We are in rehearsal for a full length original show with
you offered me full time work with your company that the mentally challenged adults at Lake Mary in Olathe
included actor housing. In January of 2012, a position and Paola. Creativity knows no boundaries. The melo-
opened up and I became the associate director for the drama has been working with this group for two years
Martin Melodrama & Vaudeville. Co. and now we will be producing and writing a show with
this wonderful, creative group of adults.
Do you like wearing all those hats?
I am very lucky. Being associate director is nothing When is the show?
short of a miracle. I have the opportunity to grow in so We hope to mount the show for fall of 2012. We received
many theatrical areas. When I graduated from college, some generous donations to put this particular produc-
I envisioned the stereo-typical actor’s life of waiting tion together and we are having a ball.
on tables and praying the phone would ring. Instead,
everything fell into place so quickly, that I am com- Based on all your new experiences, what would you
pletely convinced that this is the life for me. advise theatre students to do upon graduation from
college?
It sounds like you wanted to be a full time actor and Have a good attitude and work ethic, first and foremost.
now you are a full time actor and helping run a theatre Be grateful for what work you do get, don’t expect that
business. Do you like doing both? you deserve anything. If you choose a professional life
I knew nothing about theatre as a business before work- in show business it is not an easy ride, but if you love
ing at the Martin City Melodrama. Now I love being theatre, nothing else will do. R
immersed in the business side of theatre. Most actors
think theatre is a way for them to express themselves Jeanne Beechwood is the artistic director for the Martin
and it is. However, you have to accept the reality that City Melodrama & Vaudeville Co. and is currently men-
it is show BUSINESS! We treat our non-profit theatre toring Marcus to one day rule the world of melodrama.
20 KCSTAGE “The theater is so endlessly fascinating because it’s so accidental. It’s so much like life.” ~ Arthur Miller

23. Auditions
A Academic
C Community
E Equity
P Professional
www.kcstage.com/auditions
C The Barn Players, Inc.* life of Jesus, with a message of kindness, toler- P The Theatre Gym
Curtains by John Kander, Fred Ebb, ance and love. Directed by Amy Sander. Ages The Miser by Molière, adapted by Ste-
Rupert Holmes, and Peter Stone: Jun 13+, 2-week summer intensive production. phen Bardell: Jun 9-11: 7 pm Mon; 2
9-10: 1 pm Sat-Sun Must enroll prior to auditions. For complete pm Sat
When the leading lady mysteriously dies on information, visit www.culturehouse.com/ The miser Harpagon rules his roost with an
stage the entire cast & crew are suspects. Enter summer-programs-theater.php. The Culture iron fist. His rebellious children are afraid to tell
a local detective, who just happens to be a House, 14808 W 117th St, (913) 393-3141 him of their romantic attachments. Harpagon
musical theatre fan! Directed by Kipp Simmons; reveals his own marital designs and all conspire
musical direction by Martha Risser. June 9: 1 C River City Community Players to foil the miser before arranged marriages
pm-3 pm, June 10: 1 pm-3 pm. Callbacks: Happy Days — A New Musical: Jun can take place. When Harpagon’s treasure is
June 23: 1 pm-5 pm. St. Pius School, 55th 4-6: 7 pm Mon-Wed stolen, he rounds up the suspects-including
and Woodson, (913) 432-9100, www.the- Goodbye gray skies, hello blue! Join Richie, the audience ­ and threatens torture and
—
barnplayers.org Potsie, Ralph Malph and the unforgettable imprisonment. The arrival of Anselm unites the
“king of cool” Arthur “The Fonz” Fonzarelli proper couples and restores Harpagon to his
Parallel Lives by Kathy Najimy and Mo as the gang teams up to save it with a dance one true love — gold. Directed by Art Suskin.
Gaffney: Jun 2-3: 1 pm Sat-Sun contest and TV-worthy wrestling match. Based See website for complete info and to schedule
The audience is whisked through the out- on the hit television series, Happy Days-A New an appointment or call Art Suskin at the num-
rageous universe of Kathy and Mo, where Musical reintroduces the Cunninghams and ber below. All roles open (except Harpagon).
talented actresses play men and women the days of 1959 Milwaukee complete with We are looking for 7 men (3 doubling) and 4
struggling through the common rituals of varsity sweaters, hula hoops, and jukebox women who play between the ages of 20 and
modern life: teenagers on a date, sisters at sock-hoppin’. This perfectly family-friendly 60. All actors will be paid. Immanuel Lutheran
their grandmother’s funeral, a man and a musical will have you rockin’ and rollin’ all Church, 1700 Westport Rd, (816) 210-6266,
woman together in a country-western bar. With week long! Directed by Nino Casisi. Leaven- www.theatregym.org R
boundless humor, Parallel Lives reexamines worth Performing Arts Center, 500 Delaware
the ongoing quest to find parity and love in St, (913) 250-0417, www.rccplv.com
a contest handicapped by capricious gods-or
in this case, goddesses. Directed by Tiffany
Garrison-Schweigert. June 2: 1 pm-3 pm, June
3: 1 pm-3 pm. Callbacks: June 4: 7 pm-10
pm. St. Pius School, 55th and Woodson, (913)
432-9100, www.thebarnplayers.org
Want to write for KC Stage?
Read our submission guidelines at
A Christian Youth Theater www.kcstage.com/contributors
Guys and Dolls — Summer Camp Inten-
sive Show: Jun 1: 4:30 pm Fri
CYT Kansas City will once again be offering the
experience of producing a full-length musical
in ONE WEEK as we present Guys and Dolls
as our summer camp intensive show. Enroll-
ment is open now and auditions for roles in the
show will be held June 1 from 4:30-7:30 pm
at the CYT Studios. This is a great experience
for teens that are short on time, love theater,
and want to really push themselves to reach
higher this summer. Anyone may enroll in the
summer camp intensive camp but if you are
interested in a role, you must also audition.
CYT Kansas City Studio, 6800A W 153rd St.,
(913) 681-3318, www.cytkc.org
C The Culture House*
Godspell: Jun 18: 9 am Mon
Based on the Gospel According to St. Matthew,
Godspell boasts a string of well-loved songs,
As the cast performs “Day by Day”, “Prepare
Ye The Way Of The Lord”, “Learn Your Lessons
Well”, “All For The Best”, “All Good Gifts”, and
“By My Side”, the parables of Jesus Christ come
humanly and hearteningly to life. Godspell is a
groundbreaking and unique reflection on the
www.kcstage.com JUNE 2012 21

24. KCSTAGE Presorted Standard
PO Box 410492 U.S. Postage Paid
Kansas City, Missouri Kansas City, Missouri 641
Permit No. 2117
64141-0492
Dated material.
Please rush!
S ummer
T heatre
manon halliburton
maggie thomas
37 Postcards, Corbin Theatre
bob compton
Prelude to a Kiss, The Barn Players
larry levenson
bob compton
Christian
Youth
Theatre
bob compton
bob compton
Legally Blonde,
The Theatre in the Park Sweeney Todd, The Theatre in the Park
leslie spindler
Pete n Keely, Quality Hill Playhouse
john henningsen
The 39 Steps, Theatre Atchison Visiting Mr. Green, White Theatre