MUSIC Forum at canaaninstitute.org :: cinst.org

[Mike_L]

David Sedaris` THE SANTALAND DIARIES returns to the Kitchen for the holidays
“Among those things that make [The Santaland Diaries] funny is the presence of Gregory. He is the perfect vessel for Sedaris’ work.” – Tom Woods, Special to The Citizen, December 15, 2005.

Ithaca, NY: The Kitchen Theatre Company continues its 20th Anniversary Season with the return of best-selling author David Sedaris’ hilarious, holiday theatrical treat. The Santaland Diaries is a decadent dose of irreverent holiday humor, based on Sedaris' real-life job as a Macy’s Elf. Broadcast annually on NPR, this popular seasonal standard has been adapted for the stage by Joe Mantello into a screamingly funny one-person play. The KTC is bringing back the ‘team’ from 2005, which stars Karl Gregory and direction by Jesse Bush. The Santaland Diaries begins with special Thanksgiving Weekend Previews on Saturday, November 27th and Sunday, November 28th and additional previews December 1st, 2nd, and 3rd. Opening Night is December 4th, and The Santaland Diaries continues through December 19th, 2010. Adult language and situations.

As Sedaris' cynical alter ego, actor Karl Gregory portrays an out-of-work New Yorker who, on a whim, responds to a want ad for "holiday elf". Through intense training, a Santa-size list of the do's and don’ts of acceptable elfin behavior, and all the ups and downs that come with the adventure, this not-so-innocent job seeker transforms into a "low key kind of elf" endearingly named "Crumpet."

With a cool and critical eye, Sedaris scrutinizes the outrageous behavior of frayed families and fellow employees ranging from unemployed actors to displaced white-collar workers. His behind-the-scenes look at Macy's Santa Land as Crumpet caustically counts down the dysfunctional days 'til Christmas in this merrily malicious anti-holiday cult classic treat.

David Sedaris (playwright) is the author of the bestsellers Barrel Fever and Holidays on Ice, as well as collections of personal essays, Naked and Me Talk Pretty One Day, both of which became immediate bestsellers. Sedaris and his sister, Amy Sedaris, have collaborated under the name "The Talent Family" and have written several plays, which have been produced at La Mama, Lincoln Center, and The Drama Department in New York City. These plays include Stump the Host, Stitches, One Woman Shoe, which received an Obie Award, Incident at Cobbler's Knob, and The Book of Liz, which was published in book form by Dramatist's Play Service. His essays appear regularly in Esquire and The New Yorker. Sedaris' original radio pieces can often be heard on This American Life, distributed nationally by Public Radio International and produced by WBEZ in Chicago. In 2001, David Sedaris became the third recipient of the Thurber Prize for American Humor. He was named by Time magazine as "Humorist of the Year" in 2001. His book Dress Your Family in Corduroy and Denim was published in June 2004, and an anthology of stories, Children Playing Before a Statue of Hercules: An Anthology of Outstanding Stories, edited by David Sedaris, was published in April 2005. In 2005, David Sedaris was nominated for two Grammy Awards for Best Spoken Word Album (Dress Your Family in Corduroy & Denim) and Best Comedy Album (David Sedaris: Live at Carnegie Hall).

Karl Gregory has been seen in over 40 Kitchen Theatre productions, including the sold-out run of The Santaland Diaries in 2005. Favorite shows include Gutenberg! The Musical, Swimming In The Shallows, Drunken City, The Chairs, Frankenstein, The Drawer Boy and the 2nd Annual 48 Hour Playwriting Marathon, as well as title roles in The Cripple of Inishmaan, A Perfect Ganesh and The Servant of Two Masters. Karl is the recipient of a 2005 SALT Award for "Best Actor in a Season" for his portrayal of 37 different characters in the Kitchen's production of Fully Committed, directed by Craig MacDonald. Now based in NYC, Karl returned to Ithaca last summer for the Hangar Theatre’s 39 Steps. He completed his MFA in Acting at Brown University/Trinity Rep in Spring 2010.

Jesse Bush, longtime Kitchen Theatre collaborator and currently Associate Artistic Director at the Hangar Theatre, returns to direct this one-man tour de force. "Santaland offers a wonderful alternative to the all-too-often saccharine Christmas fare,” says Bush. “I'm a huge fan of holiday entertainment and David Sedaris' take on 'the most wonderful time of the year' is truly unique." Recent directorial credits include Kitchen Theatre: Happy Days, The Drawer Boy, and this season’s moving production of The Brothers Size. At the Hangar Theatre: The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee and Once on this Island.

The scenic design for The Santaland Diaries is by Norm Johnson, lighting design is by Max Doolittle, costume design by Lisa Boquist, sound design by Lesley Greene, and the Stage Manager is LaShawn Keyser. All performances will be at the Kitchen Theatre’s brand new location – 417 W. State / W. Martin Luther King, Jr. Street, in downtown Ithaca, NY.

Performance Dates:
Sat., Nov. 27, 2010 at 8:00pm (Early Bird Holiday Preview 1 of 2)
Sun., Nov. 28, 2010 at 4:00pm (Early Bird Holiday Preview 2 of 2)
Wed., Dec. 1, 2010 at 7:30pm (Preview 1 of 2)
Thurs., Dec. 2, 2010 at 7:30pm (Preview 2 of 3)
Fri., Dec. 3, 2010 at 8:00pm (Preview 3 of 3)
Sat., Dec. 4, 2010 at 8:00pm (Press Opening)
Sun., Dec. 5, 2010 at 4:00pm
Wed., Dec. 8, 2010 at 7:30pm
Thurs., Dec. 9, 2010 at 7:30pm
Fri., Dec. 10, 2010 at 8:00pm (Wine Tasting)
Sat., Dec. 11, 2010 at 8:00pm
Sun., Dec. 12, 2010 at 4:00pm
Wed., Dec. 15, 2010 at 7:30pm
Thurs., Dec. 16, 2010 at 7:30pm
Fri., Dec. 17, 2010 at 8:00pm
Sat., Dec. 18, 2010 at 8:00pm
Sun., Dec. 19, 2010 at 4:00pm (Closing)

Bold, intimate, engaging...Kitchen Theatre Company (KTC), beginning its 20th season, is downtown Ithaca’s critically acclaimed and nationally recognized year-round professional theater company, specializing in regional and world premiere plays and musicals. KTC’s intimate 99-seat theater is in its newly renovated “green” building in the West End neighborhood of downtown Ithaca, New York (beginning September 2010). KTC is the first not-for-profit recipient of the David R. Strong Memorial “Small Business of the Year” Award from the Tompkins County Chamber of Commerce and receives public funds from the New York State Council on the Arts, a State Agency, and the Tompkins County Room Occupancy Tax Fund. The Kitchen Theatre Company also receives general operating support from the Shubert Foundation.

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_________________
Michael Ludgate - forum administrator
The Canaan Institute http://www.canaaninstitute.org/

===

[Mike_L]

Kitchen Theatre rings in the New Year with BED & SOFA (an ENCORE production)
From the 2002 Production: “Director Susannah Berryman has brought out all the emotional nuances in the script without sacrificing the humor. These three lovers are very young and silly, and Berryman makes sure we get to enjoy that.” – .” – Judith Pratt, Special to The Ithaca Journal, August 24, 2002.

Ithaca, NY: The Kitchen Theatre Company will begin the New Year with a romantic love-triangle set to music in Bed & Sofa , a silent movie opera by Polly Pen and Laurence Klavan. When a young couple takes in a boarder, the duet becomes a trio, igniting passion and starting conflict. Who sleeps in the bed and who sleeps on the sofa? Bed & Sofa begins previews January 19, 20, and 21. Opening Night is January 22, and then continues through February 6, 2011. Bed & Sofa is recommended for ages 16 and up.

The game of musical bed and sofa takes place in 1926 Soviet Moscow. Times are hard in Stalinist Russia and everyone is a cog in the wheel. Ludmilla, (Erica Steinhagen), keeps house but wishes for more. Her husband Kolya (David Neal), a construction manager, accepts the status quo. When Kolya meets an old army buddy, Volodya (Patrick Oliver Jones), who has been displaced by the Moscow housing shortage, Kolya offers him the sofa in their cramped flat. In their military days, Kolya and Volodya shared a similar life philosophy. Now Kolya is content, while Volodya is restless and unsatisfied. Bed & Sofa explores the paths imposed on us and the bravery required to forge our own way.

First produced in Summer 2002, the KTC is delighted to have Director Susannah Berryman and Music Director Richard Montgomery (PRECIOUS NONSENSE, TONY & THE SOPRANO, BED NO BREAKFAST among others) return to lead this production. Popular Kitchen Theatre veteran actress Erica Steinhagen (PRECIOUS NONSENSE, BED NO BREAKFAST, TONY & THE SOPRANO, WE WON’T PAY! among others) will be reprising her original role of Ludmilla. Joining her will be NYC actor Patrick Oliver Jones (AEA), and David Neal from Cortland, NY who will both be making their KTC debuts.

The stage version of Bed & Sofa is based on a 1928 Russian silent film of the same name directed by Abram Room. The story of a married couple, an invited guest and the events that unfold was controversial and shocking for its time. In 1996, the composer/lyricist team of Polly Pen and Laurence Klavan transformed Bed & Sofa into an intricate and innovative musical with a story still as startling and surprising as ever. Pen and Klavan’s whimsical score and haunting libretto give voice to the muted hearts of its three characters, winning two 1996 Obie Awards (Distinguished Music and Best Musical) and seven nominations for 1996 Drama Desk Awards.

The Scenic Designer for Bed & Sofa is Steve TenEyck, Lighting Designer is Max Doolittle, Costume Designer is Lisa Boquist, Sound and Projection Designer is Lesley Greene, and the Stage Manager is LaShawn Keyser. All performances will be at the Kitchen Theatre’s brand new location – 417 W. State / Martin Luther King, Jr. Street, in downtown Ithaca, NY.

Performance Dates:
Wed., Jan. 19, 2011 at 7:30pm (Preview 1 of 2)
Thurs., Jan. 20, 2011 at 7:30pm (Preview 2 of 3)
Fri., Jan. 21, 2011 at 8:00pm (Preview 3 of 3)
Sat., Jan. 22, 2011 at 8:00pm (Press Opening)
Sun., Jan. 23, 2011 at 4:00pm
Wed., Jan. 26, 2011 at 7:30pm
Thurs., Jan. 27, 2011 at 2:00pm
Thurs., Jan. 27, 2011 at 7:30pm
Fri., Jan. 28, 2011 at 8:00pm (Wine Tasting)
Sat., Jan. 29, 2011 at 8:00pm
Sun., Jan. 30, 2011 at 4:00pm
Wed., Feb. 2, 2011 at 7:30pm
Thurs., Feb. 3, 2011 at 7:30pm
Fri., Feb. 4, 2011 at 8:00pm
Sat., Feb. 5, 2011 at 8:00pm
Sun., Feb. 6, 2011 at 4:00pm (Closing)

Bold, intimate, engaging...Kitchen Theatre Company (KTC), beginning its 20th season, is downtown Ithaca’s critically acclaimed and nationally recognized year-round professional theater company, specializing in regional and world premiere plays and musicals. KTC’s intimate 99-seat theater is in its newly renovated “green” building in the West End neighborhood of downtown Ithaca, New York (beginning September 2010). KTC is the first not-for-profit recipient of the David R. Strong Memorial “Small Business of the Year” Award from the Tompkins County Chamber of Commerce and receives public funds from the New York State Council on the Arts, a State Agency, and the Tompkins County Room Occupancy Tax Fund. The Kitchen Theatre Company also receives general operating support from the Shubert Foundation.

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_________________
Michael Ludgate - forum administrator
The Canaan Institute http://www.canaaninstitute.org/

===

[Mike_L]

Kitchen Theatre offers regional premiere of boom – an explosive new comedy about the end of the world

Ithaca, NY: The Kitchen Theatre Company’s 20th Anniversary continues with the regional premiere of boom by Peter Sinn Nachtrieb—an explosive new comedy about the end of the world. boom has previews on February 23, 24, and 25. Opening Night is February 26, and performances continue through March 13, 2011. boom is recommended for ages sixteen and up.



Jules is a graduate student studying fish behavior who is absolutely certain that the fish are predicting a comet strike that will change life as we know it. Jo is an undergraduate journalism major who answers an ad on craigslist promising a life-altering sexual encounter. Are they the new Adam and Eve? And who is this woman who seems to controlling the scene from the outside?

Directing this comedy is Samuel Buggeln, director of last season’s Speech & Debate. Alison Scaramella, who delighted audiences as the quirky, singing video blogger in the same play, returns to the Kitchen Theatre as Jo. Playing the role of Barbara is New York City-based Ronica V. Reddick (AEA), an Ithaca College graduate who last appeared at the Kitchen in Tanya Barfield’s Pecan Tan. Also from New York City is actor Jimmy King (AEA), who played the role of Jules in the original Brown/Trinity Playwrights Rep workshop production of boom in 2007.

“I am so excited to be working on this play in the new Kitchen Theatre,” says director Samuel Buggeln. “The play is funny and smart—a perfect fit for Ithaca audiences. The set is a super fun element and one that could never have worked in the old Kitchen Theatre space. I can only describe it as a cross between a futuristic museum display, a scientific laboratory, and a strangely overstocked bachelor pad. You will have to see it to believe it!”

The Kitchen Theatre will be partnering with the Museum of the Earth for four panel discussions of the scientific topics raised by this play. The first of these will be a Meet the Artist event on February 13, 2011 from 4 PM to 6 PM, which will include an excerpt from the play and discussion with Artistic Director Rachel Lampert, director Samuel Buggeln, and Museum of the Earth director Warren Allmon. This event is free and open to the public and is a part of the Museum of the Earth’s Darwin Days (February 6 – 13). Museum of the Earth staff will also join in the post-show discussions for all three preview performances of the play (February 23, 24, and 25 – ticket required).

The Scenic Designer for boom is Daniel Zimmerman, Lighting Designer is Max Doolittle, Costume Designer is Lisa Boquist, Sound Designer is Ben Truppin-Brown, Projection Designer is Lesley Greene, and the Stage Manager is LaShawn Keyser. Performances will be at the Kitchen Theatre, located at 417 W. State / Martin Luther King, Jr. Street in downtown Ithaca, NY.

Performance Dates:
Wed., Feb. 23, 2011 at 7:30pm (Preview 1 of 2)
Thurs., Feb. 24, 2011 at 7:30pm (Preview 2 of 3)
Fri., Feb. 25, 2011 at 8:00pm (Preview 3 of 3)
Sat., Feb. 26, 2011 at 8:00pm (Press Opening)
Sun., Feb. 27, 2011 at 4:00pm
Wed., Mar. 02, 2011 at 7:30pm
Thurs., Mar. 03, 2011 at 2:00pm
Thurs., Mar. 03, 2011 at 7:30pm
Fri., Mar. 04, 2011 at 8:00pm (Wine Tasting)
Sat., Mar. 05, 2011 at 8:00pm
Sun., Mar. 06, 2011 at 4:00pm
Wed., Mar. 09, 2011 at 7:30pm
Thurs., Mar. 10, 2011 at 7:30pm
Fri., Mar. 11, 2011 at 8:00pm
Sat., Mar. 12, 2011 at 8:00pm
Sun., Mar. 13, 2011 at 4:00pm (Closing)

Bold, intimate, engaging...Kitchen Theatre Company (KTC), beginning its 20th season, is downtown Ithaca’s critically acclaimed and nationally recognized year-round professional theater company, specializing in regional and world premiere plays and musicals. KTC’s intimate 99-seat theater is in its newly renovated “green” building in the West End neighborhood of downtown Ithaca, New York (beginning September 2010). KTC is the first not-for-profit recipient of the David R. Strong Memorial “Small Business of the Year” Award from the Tompkins County Chamber of Commerce and receives public funds from the New York State Council on the Arts, a State Agency, and the Tompkins County Room Occupancy Tax Fund. The Kitchen Theatre Company also receives general operating support from the Shubert Foundation.

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_________________
Michael Ludgate - forum administrator
The Canaan Institute http://www.canaaninstitute.org/

===

[Mike_L]

Kitchen Theatre brings Marty Moran’s THE TRICKY PART to Ithaca

Ithaca, NY: The Kitchen Theatre Company’s 20th Anniversary continues with the regional premiere of The Tricky Part by Marty Moran. The Tricky Part has previews on March 23, 24, and 25. Opening Night is March 26, and performances continue through April 10, 2011. This show is recommended for ages sixteen and up.

The Tricky Part is a true story in the hands of a master storyteller. In the tradition of Spaulding Gray, Marty Moran’s The Tricky Part combines the immediacy and emotion of a real-life experience with the wisdom and thoughtfulness provided by the passage of time. This one-man play, performed by NYC actor Carl Danielsen, takes you on a journey from the madness of a tricky situation, through a tangle of conflicting actions and desires, and ultimately to a place of new understanding. All this is accomplished in a single spotlight with minimal props - just a vivid performance with tremendous heart. The Tricky Part is a moving story, infused with humor and courage about a tough subject.

The play begins with 12-year-old Marty growing up in an exemplary Irish Catholic family. They live in the Denver neighborhood of Virginia Vale, but they belong to Christ the King, the church and Catholic school up the hill. As a good Catholic boy, Marty absorbed the teachings of the nuns and priests, confused by mysteries of the spirit and the flesh.

Into that world came Bob, a Vietnam vet carving out a ranch-camp out of the mountain wilderness. A real “man’s man,” truck driving Bob shows Marty how to milk cows, mend barbed wire fence, raft rivers, and read the night sky. He also notices a young boy, unsure, self-conscious, teetering on the brink of manhood, and introduces that boy to the secret at the center of bodies. The Tricky Part tells the story of this relationship and its complex effect on the man Moran became.

Ben Brantley of the New York Times says of the play, "What gives this play its disturbing immediacy is Mr. Moran's gift for summoning the confused boy he was with exact sensory detail. The emotions stirred are not simple, and Mr. Moran gives such acute and urgent life to his memories that you have no difficulty in believing that he has remained in their thrall ever since. …The Tricky Part vibrates with the vertigo that descends when past and present coexist. …there is surely some redemption in rendering chaos with this kind of clarity."

Told with startling candor and disarming humor, The Tricky Part carries us to the heart of a paradox–that what we think of as damage may be the very thing that gives rise to transformation, even grace.

Director Sara Lampert Hoover has been at the helm of many of the Kitchen’s most popular productions, including SOUVENIR, YELLOWMAN, THE CLEAN HOUSE, CRUMBS FROM THE TABLE OF JOY and THE SYRINGA TREE. She lives in NYC and directs around the country.

New York City actor Carl Danielsen will be making his KTC debut in this one-man production. Danielsen has numerous NYC and regional theater credits including Cleveland Playhouse, Barrington Stage, San Jose Repertory Theatre, and Virginia Stage. He works as an actor, arranger and music director, with credits in theater, musical theater, and television.

Lighting Designer for The Tricky Part is by E.D. Intemann. The Stage Manager is LaShawn Keyser. Performances will be at the Kitchen Theatre, located at 417 W. State / Martin Luther King, Jr. Street in downtown Ithaca, NY.

Performance Dates:
Wed., March 23, 2011 at 7:30pm (Preview 1 of 2)
Thurs., March 24, 2011 at 7:30pm (Preview 2 of 3)
Fri., March 25, 2011 at 8:00pm (Preview 3 of 3)
Sat., March 2011 at 8:00pm (Press Opening)
Sun., March Feb. 27, 2011 at 4:00pm
Wed., March 30, 2011 at 7:30pm
Thurs., March 31, 2011 at 7:30pm
Fri., April 01, 2011 at 8:00pm (Wine Tasting)
Sat., April 02, 2011 at 8:00pm
Sun., April 03, 2011 at 4:00pm
Wed., April 06, 2011 at 7:30pm
Thurs., April 07, 2011 at 7:30pm
Fri., Apirl 08, 2011 at 8:00pm
Sat., April 09, 2011 at 8:00pm
Sun., April 10, 2011 at 4:00pm (Closing)

Bold, intimate, engaging...Kitchen Theatre Company (KTC), beginning its 20th season, is downtown Ithaca’s critically acclaimed and nationally recognized year-round professional theater company, specializing in regional and world premiere plays and musicals. KTC’s intimate 99-seat theater is in its newly renovated “green” building in the West End neighborhood of downtown Ithaca, New York (beginning September 2010). KTC is the first not-for-profit recipient of the David R. Strong Memorial “Small Business of the Year” Award from the Tompkins County Chamber of Commerce and receives public funds from the New York State Council on the Arts, a State Agency, and the Tompkins County Room Occupancy Tax Fund. The Kitchen Theatre Company also receives general operating support from the Shubert Foundation.

###
_________________
Michael Ludgate - forum administrator
The Canaan Institute http://www.canaaninstitute.org/

===

[Mike_L]

International Collaboration Premieres at the Kitchen Theatre Company

Ithaca, NY: The Kitchen Theatre’s 20th Anniversary Season continues with an exciting international collaboration. Actors, playwrights and artists from the U.S. and Turkey have come together to create the play S/HE, which will have its world premiere production at the Kitchen Theatre in May 2011. S/HE has previews on May 4, 5, and 6, Opening Night is May 7, and performances continue through May 15, 2011. In the fall of 2011, the production will travel to Turkey and New York City.

The Kitchen Theatre’s partners in this project are Cornell University, Yeditepe University in Istanbul, and International Culture Lab (ICL), a theatre company co-founded by Melanie Dreyer, Assistant Professor of Directing and Acting in Cornell University’s Department of Theatre, Film and Dance, and Gabriele Schafer, a professional actress and translator based in New York City. Dreyer also serves as the director of the play.

At the core of the piece are one-act plays written by American playwright Tammy Ryan and Turkish playwright Zeynep Kaçar. They consider what it means to be a woman, exploring the body as a battleground from two cultural perspectives. The plays were interwoven in a workshop process involving the entire creative team, including an acting ensemble of two professional Turkish actors, two ICL company actors, and one student each from ICL’s university partners, Cornell University and Yeditepe University (Istanbul).

Kaçar’s play takes a satiric look at Turkish societal standards of beauty, desirability, and gender politics. In Ryan’s play, a high school girl is date-raped by her boyfriend, and the resulting pregnancy forces her to examine definitions of love and self and who controls what happens to her body. The piece is performed in both English and Turkish.

A workshop for students on contemporary Turkish theatre will be given by Meting Balay, head of the acting program at Istanbul’s Yeditepe University;
The Cornell Law School will create a trial on the right to veil on campus, providing opportunities for undergraduate theatre students to work with graduate law students to examine this issue from a judicial perspective;
Cornell’s German Culture Studies program will host a lecture by renowned scholar Nilüfer Göle, a leading authority on contemporary Islam;
A panel of local experts from Planned Parenthood, the Turkish Cultural Center, a doctor specializing in sexual dysfunction, the owner of a local tattoo parlor, and an expert on Domestic Violence will speak to and with the audience about their individual areas of expertise, offering new perspectives on the content and themes of the plays, as well as a forum for debate about the issues; and
Cornell’s Department of Theatre, Film and Dance and the Kitchen Theatre Company will present an exhibit of historical Turkish dress in their respective lobbies during the run of the show.

Please check the Kitchen Theatre web site for dates and times for these events.

The design team for S/HE comes from Ithaca, New York City, and Pittsburgh. The Set Designer is Stephanie Mayer-Staley, Head of Design at Point Park University in Pittsburgh, PA. Lighting Design is by E.D. Intemann, Senior Lecturer and the Resident Lighting Designer at the Schwartz Center for the Performing Arts at Cornell University. Costume Designer is Pei-Chi Su, Assistant Professor of Costume Design at Hofstra University. The Sound Design is by Pittsburgh-area designer Nicholas Crano. The Stage Manager is LaShawn Keyser. Performances will be at the Kitchen Theatre, located at 417 W. State / Martin Luther King, Jr. Street in downtown Ithaca, NY.

For tickets, call Ticket Center Ithaca at 607-273-4497, visit the Ticket Center at 171 The Commons, Ithaca, NY, or click www.kitchentheatre.org to buy online. More information about the production and ancillary events are at www.kitchentheatre.org and www.intlculturelab.org.

Performance Dates:
Wed., May 4, 2011 at 7:30pm (Preview 1 of 2)
Thurs., May 5, 2011 at 7:30pm (Preview 2 of 3)
Fri., May 6, 2011 at 8:00pm (Preview 3 of 3)
Sat., May 7, 2011 at 8:00pm (Press Opening)
Sun., May 8, 2011 at 4:00pm
Wed., May 11, 2011 at 7:30pm
Thurs., May 12, 2011 at 7:30pm
Fri., May 13, 2011 at 8:00pm (Wine Tasting)
Sat., May 14, 2011 at 8:00pm
Sun., May 15, 2011 at 4:00pm (closing)

Bold, intimate, engaging...Kitchen Theatre Company (KTC), now in its 20th season, is downtown Ithaca’s critically acclaimed and nationally recognized year-round professional theater company, specializing in regional and world premiere plays and musicals. KTC’s intimate 99-seat theater is in its newly renovated “green” building in the West End neighborhood of downtown Ithaca, New York. KTC is the first not-for-profit recipient of the David R. Strong Memorial “Small Business of the Year” Award from the Tompkins County Chamber of Commerce and receives public funds from the New York State Council on the Arts, a State Agency, and the Tompkins County Room Occupancy Tax Fund. The Kitchen Theatre Company also receives general operating support from the Shubert Foundation.

###
_________________
Michael Ludgate - forum administrator
The Canaan Institute http://www.canaaninstitute.org/

===

[Mike_L]

TICKETS: $18-32; CALL 607-273-4497; VISIT Ticket Center Ithaca, 171 The Commons, Ithaca, NY; or CLICK
www.kitchentheatre.org and buy online.
GROUP RATES: Discounts are available when you come with a group. For details, call 607-272-0403.
WEBSITE: For more information on the Kitchen Theatre Company, visit www.kitchentheatre.org.

This piece is made possible in part by Sponsor: Cayuga Medical Centerand Media Sponsor: WSKG Public Broadcasting. This funding helps the Kitchen bring bold, intimate and engaging theater to life.

MARY'S WEDDING at the Kitchen Theatre Company

Ithaca, NY: The Kitchen Theatre’s 20th Anniversary Season continues in June with Mary’s Wedding by Canadian playwright Stephen Massicotte. A passionate love story set against the background of World War I, Mary’s Wedding is an elegy and celebration of star-crossed lovers who burn with a thrilling brightness.

Kitchen Theatre Company’s Artistic Director, Rachel Lampert, will direct Eric Gilde and Ellen Adair. Kitchen Theatre patrons will remember Gilde from the 2009-10 Season production of Last Train to Nibroc and this season’s collaboration with The History Center of Tompkins County, The Secret Room, a play based on the book Dear Friend Amelia: The Civil War Letters of Private John Tidd. Ellen Adair will be making her Kitchen Theatre Company debut.

“I am thrilled to be directing two such talented, nuanced and deeply thoughtful young actors. I cannot wait to get started. The play jumps from the past to the present to the landscape of the mind. It is filled with wonderfully poetic language and almost staggering emotional situations. It is a director’s dream, or maybe nightmare, as the play skips along from here to there in a heartbeat. I find the characters so endearing – early 20th century Romeo and Juliet. And having Eric Gilde and Ellen Adair as the company, well – it takes my breath away. This is a play for everyone who truly ever loved another person. It speaks to all that make us human, “ says director Rachel Lampert.

The design team for Mary’s Wedding includes set and lighting designer David Arsenault (The Brothers Size this season) and costume designer Lisa Boquist (The Brothers Size, Private Lives, Santaland Diaries, Bed & Sofa) Original music composed by Mer Boel and sound design by Lesley Greene completes the creative team. The Stage Manager is LaShawn Keyser. Performances will be at the Kitchen Theatre, located at 417 W. State / Martin Luther King, Jr. Street in downtown Ithaca, NY.

For tickets, call Ticket Center Ithaca at 607-273-4497, visit the Ticket Center at 171 The Commons, Ithaca, NY, or click www.kitchentheatre.org to buy online.

Performance Dates:
Wed., June 8, 2011 at 7:30pm (Preview 1 of 3)
Thurs., June 9, 2011 at 7:30pm (Preview 2 of 3)
Fri., June 10, 2011 at 8:00pm (Preview 3 of 3)
Sat., June 11, 2011 at 8:00pm (Press Opening)
Sun., June 12, 2011 at 4:00pm
Wed., June 15, 2011 at 7:30pm
Thurs., June 16, 2011 at 7:30pm
Fri., June 17, 2011 at 8:00pm (Wine Tasting)
Sat., June 18, 2011 at 8:00pm
Sun., June 19, 2011 at 4:00pm
Wed., June 22, 2011 at 7:30pm
Thurs., June 23, 2011 at 7:30pm
Fri., June 24, 2011 at 8:00pm
Sat., June 25, 2011 at 8:00pm
Sun., June 26, 2011 at 4:00pm (closing)

Bold, intimate, engaging...Kitchen Theatre Company (KTC), now in its 20th season, is downtown Ithaca’s critically acclaimed and nationally recognized year-round professional theater company, specializing in regional and world premiere plays and musicals. KTC’s intimate 99-seat theater is in its newly renovated “green” building in the West End neighborhood of downtown Ithaca, New York. KTC is the first not-for-profit recipient of the David R. Strong Memorial “Small Business of the Year” Award from the Tompkins County Chamber of Commerce and receives public funds from the New York State Council on the Arts, a State Agency, and the Tompkins County Room Occupancy Tax Fund. The Kitchen Theatre Company also receives general operating support from the Shubert Foundation.

###
_________________
Michael Ludgate - forum administrator
The Canaan Institute http://www.canaaninstitute.org/

===

[Mike_L]

World Premiere Comedy at the Kitchen Theatre Company

Ithaca, NY: The Kitchen Theatre Company concludes its 20th Anniversary Season with a world premiere comedy, At A Loss by Jason Odell Williams. The comedy of errors begins when Israeli grandmother Edna insists that her granddaughter Ayelet join her on a trip to the U.S; Edna is on a mission. Circumstances change radically, and Ayelet has to get help, but the two Americans available on a snowy Christmas Eve may not be up to the job. Can love blossom when language barriers are high, timetables inflexible and a delivery van with extremely valuable property has been hijacked? The answers will keep you laughing this summer in this wonderful new romantic comedy.

"I am looking forward to digging into comedy! This is a terrific cast and Jason has been a delight to work with as we prepare to do the play. A wonderful finish to the first season in our new theater," says Artistic Director, Rachel Lampert.

At A Loss comes to the Kitchen Theatre following several highly successful developmental readings, most recently at Bleecker Street starring NYC actress, Norma Fire. It was she who, after experiencing the laughter and applause of the attendees, said to Williams, “I know the perfect place for this play. Can I send it to the Kitchen Theatre for you?” The Kitchen Theatre has long been fertile ground for the growth of rising playwrights and where the seeds of creative, bold and engaging theatre are sewn. It is this environment and the collaborative process that makes playwright Jason Odell Williams most excited about his world premiere at this intimate theatre in the heart of New York State. “There will be some wonderful discoveries and improvements in the rehearsal process at the Kitchen Theatre Company,” says Williams. “The collaborative process—with the actors and the director—is the best part of writing. Making changes by yourself at home…? Not nearly as much fun.”

At A Loss will be directed by the Kitchen Theatre Company’s Artistic Director Rachel Lampert and stars Charlotte Cohn*, Michael Kaplan* and Michael Dalto. Returning to the Kitchen is Norma Fire* (Bed No Breakfast, Three Tall Women, The Book Club) The Set Designer is Brendan Komala. Lighting Design is by Joey Moro. Costume Designer is Lisa Boquist. The Stage Manager is LaShawn Keyser. Performances will be at the Kitchen Theatre, located at 417 W. State / Martin Luther King, Jr. Street in downtown Ithaca, NY.

For tickets, call Ticket Center Ithaca at 607-273-4497, visit the Ticket Center at 171 The Commons, Ithaca, NY, or click www.kitchentheatre.org to buy online.

Performance Dates:
Wed., July 13, 2011 at 7:30pm (Preview 1 of 2)
Thurs., July 14, 2011 at 7:30pm (Preview 2 of 3)
Fri., July 15, 2011 at 8:00pm (Preview 3 of 3)
Sat., July 16, 2011 at 8:00pm (Press Opening)
Sun., June 17, 2011 at 4:00pm
Wed., July 20, 2011 at 7:30pm
Thurs., July 21, 2011 at 2:00pm (Matinee)
Thurs., July 21, 2011 at 7:30pm
Fri., July 22, 2011 at 8:00pm (Wine Tasting)
Sat., July 23, 2011 at 8:00pm
Sun., July 24, 2011 at 4:00pm
Wed., July 27, 2011 at 7:30pm
Thurs., July 28, 2011 at 7:30pm
Fri., July 29, 2011 at 8:00pm
Sat., July 30, 2011 at 8:00pm
Sun., July 31, 2011 at 4:00pm (closing)


Bold, intimate, engaging...Kitchen Theatre Company (KTC), now in its 20th season, is downtown Ithaca’s critically acclaimed and nationally recognized year-round professional theater company, specializing in regional and world premiere plays and musicals. KTC’s intimate 99-seat theater is in its newly renovated “green” building in the West End neighborhood of downtown Ithaca, New York. KTC is the first not-for-profit recipient of the David R. Strong Memorial “Small Business of the Year” Award from the Tompkins County Chamber of Commerce and receives public funds from the New York State Council on the Arts, a State Agency, and the Tompkins County Room Occupancy Tax Fund. The Kitchen Theatre Company also receives general operating support from the Shubert Foundation.

Contact: Lindsay Hahnes, Director of Development & Marketing, 607-272-0403; lindsay@kitchentheatre.org
Photos available upon request.

TICKETS: $18-32; CALL 607-273-4497; VISIT Ticket Center Ithaca, 171 The Commons, Ithaca, NY; or CLICK
www.kitchentheatre.org and buy online.
GROUP RATES: Discounts are available when you come with a group. For details, call 607-272-0403.
WEBSITE: For more information on the Kitchen Theatre Company, visit www.kitchentheatre.org.

This piece is made possible in part by Underwriter Tompkins Trust Company. This funding helps the Kitchen bring bold, intimate and engaging theater to life.

###
_________________
Michael Ludgate - forum administrator
The Canaan Institute http://www.canaaninstitute.org/

===

[Mike_L]

KTC Ushers in 21st Season with Annie Baker’s CIRCLE MIRROR TRANSFORMATION

Ithaca, NY: The Kitchen Theatre Company’s 21st season opens with the regional premiere of Circle Mirror Transformation by Annie Baker. Previews are on August 24, 25, and 26, Opening Night is August 27, and performances continue through September 11, 2011.

With Circle Mirror Transformation, the Kitchen brings rising star Annie Baker’s first major play to Ithaca. It is a funny, moving, and emotionally true comedy about the awkward but occasionally life changing experiences that can occur when people are forced to get to know one another in an intimate situation. Set in small town Vermont, Circle Mirror Transformation brings together five would-be actors in a “creative drama” class at a community center.

Whether one has signed up for an improv class or a pottery workshop or been required to attend a team-building exercise at work, most of us have been thrust into a small group of people to solve a problem or find a new way of expressing oneself, with the hope of some kind of change. These five characters play games and exercises that are standard fare in beginning acting classes and team-building workshops, and we get to see their successes and embarrassments. Writer Annie Baker never shies away from the interminable silence that comes when the next word is simply not there or the fear of trying something new with others watching. The play is a mirror reflecting everyone’s longing for acceptance and belonging, with characters who are loveable for their shortcomings and their familiarity.

The New York Times' Anita Gates calls the play “unblinking and sharply funny” and says that the script “constantly surprises, revealing character and philosophical truths in enticing, funny way.”

Kitchen veteran Norm Johnson will direct the production. Johnson served as KTC’s Artistic Director from 1993-1997 and has directed numerous productions at the Kitchen, including A Perfect Ganesh, The Intelligent Design of Jenny Chow and The Road to Mecca. He is an Associate Professor at Ithaca College.

The Kitchen welcomes back a cast of familiar faces for Circle Mirror Transformation. Regional actor Camilla Schade, last seen in the Kitchen’s Private Lives, will play Marty. Ithaca College professor and Kitchen veteran Greg Bostwick will play James, and Dean Robinson* returns to the Kitchen as Schultz. Alison Claire Scaramella, last seen in boom will play Lauren, while Jennifer Herzog* (First Day) will play Theresa. (*members AEA)
David L. Arsenault is the Set and Lighting Designer for Circle Mirror Transformation and Lisa Boquist is the Costume Designer. The Stage Manager is Kate Matthews and the Production Stage Manager is LaShawn Keyser. Performances will be at the Kitchen Theatre, located at 417 W. State / Martin Luther King, Jr. Street in downtown Ithaca, NY.

For tickets, call Ticket Center Ithaca at 607-273-4497, visit the Ticket Center at 171 The Commons, Ithaca, NY, or click www.kitchentheatre.org to buy online.

Performance Dates:
Wed., Aug. 24, 2011 at 7:30pm (Preview 1 of 3)
Thurs., Aug 25, 2011 at 7:30pm (Preview 2 of 3)
Fri., Aug. 26, 2011 at 8:00pm (Preview 3 of 3)
Sat., Aug. 27, 2011 at 8:00pm (Press Opening)
Sun., Aug. 28, 2011 at 4:00pm
Wed., Aug. 31, 2011 at 7:30pm
Thurs., Sept. 1, 2011 at 2:00pm (Matinee)
Thurs., Sept. 1, 2011 at 7:30pm
Fri., Sept. 2, 2011 at 8:00pm
Sat., Sept. 3, 2011 at 8:00pm
Sun., Sept. 4, 2011 at 4:00pm
Wed., Sept. 7, 2011 at 7:30pm
Thurs., Sept. 8, 2011 at 7:30pm
Fri., Sept. 9, 2011 at 8:00pm
Sat., Sept. 10, 2011 at 8:00pm
Sun., Sept. 11, 2011 at 4:00pm (Closing)

TICKETS: $18-32; CALL 607-273-4497; VISIT Ticket Center Ithaca, 171 The Commons, Ithaca, NY; or CLICK
www.kitchentheatre.org and buy online.
GROUP RATES: Discounts are available when you come with a group. For details, call 607-272-0403.
WEBSITE: For more information on the Kitchen Theatre Company, visit www.kitchentheatre.org.

This piece is made possible in part by Underwriter Gateway Commons. This funding helps the Kitchen bring bold, intimate and engaging theater to life.

Bold, intimate, engaging...Kitchen Theatre Company (KTC), now in its 21st season, is downtown Ithaca’s critically acclaimed and nationally recognized year-round professional theater company, specializing in regional and world premiere plays and musicals. KTC’s intimate 99-seat theater is in its newly renovated “green” building in the West End neighborhood of downtown Ithaca, New York. KTC is the first not-for-profit recipient of the David R. Strong Memorial “Small Business of the Year” Award from the Tompkins County Chamber of Commerce and receives public funds from the New York State Council on the Arts, a State Agency, and the Tompkins County Room Occupancy Tax Fund. The Kitchen Theatre Company also receives general operating support from the Shubert Foundation.

###
_________________
Michael Ludgate - forum administrator
The Canaan Institute http://www.canaaninstitute.org/

===

[Mike_L]

KTC brings live music and dance to its 21st Season with IN THE COMPANY OF DANCERS

Ithaca, NY: The Kitchen Theatre Company’s 21st season continues with a new movement theatre piece, In the Company of Dancers, with previews on September 28, 29, and 30, and Opening Night on October 1. It runs for two weeks only, closing on October 9, 2011.

With choreography by Kitchen Theatre Artistic Director Rachel Lampert and Ithaca College Dance Professor Lindsay Gilmour and live accompaniment by violinist Linda Case (Concertmistress, Cayuga Chamber Orchestra), CCO first cellist Rosie Elliott, and CCO guest pianist Andrea Merrill, this new piece will fill the intimate Kitchen Theatre with the music of Mendelssohn, Martinu, Brahms, Shostakovich, Glière, Handel, Haydn, Sarasate, Kreisler, Dvorak, Beach, Bach, and more.

Norma Fire*, last seen at the Kitchen Theatre as Edna in the world premiere of At A Loss, leads a multigenerational company of actors and dancers. Fire plays Deborah, a former professional dancer reminiscing about her many years on the stage. As she leafs through scrapbooks, letters and photo albums, we relive her memories as dancers bring them to life onstage. The company includes Tim Connell*, Lindsay Gilmour, Erin Hilgartner, Karen Koyanagi, Ryan MacConnell, Stephen Nunley, Audrey Pincus, Yvette Rubio, Lillian Stamey, and Shaina Ung. (*Member, Actors’ Equity Association).

This is choreographer Lindsay Gilmour’s second time at the Kitchen. She performed in last season’s dance piece, Summers at Rock’s Edge. When she isn’t at the Kitchen, you can find her teaching modern dance at Ithaca College.
Tyler Perry is the Lighting Designer for In the Company of Dancers and Hannah Kochman is the Costume Designer. The Stage Manager is Jennifer Gregory and the Production Stage Manager is LaShawn Keyser. Performances will be at the Kitchen Theatre, located at 417 W. State / Martin Luther King, Jr. Street in downtown Ithaca, NY.

For tickets, call Ticket Center Ithaca at 607-273-4497, visit the Ticket Center at 171 The Commons, Ithaca, NY, or click www.kitchentheatre.org to buy online.

Performance Dates:
Wed., Sept. 28, 2011 at 7:30pm (Preview 1 of 3)
Thurs., Sept. 29, 2011 at 7:30pm (Preview 2 of 3)
Fri., Sept. 30, 2011 at 8:00pm (Preview 3 of 3)
Sat., Oct. 1, 2011 at 8:00pm (Press Opening)
Sun., Oct. 2, 2011 at 4:00pm
Wed., Oct. 5, 2011 at 7:30pm
Thurs., Oct. 6, 2011 at 2:00pm (Matinee)
Thurs., Oct. 6, 2011 at 7:30pm
Fri., Oct. 7, 2011 at 8:00pm
Sat., Oct. 8, 2011 at 8:00pm
Sun., Oct. 9, 2011 at 4:00pm (Closing)

TICKETS: $15-32; CALL 607-273-4497; VISIT Ticket Center Ithaca, 171 The Commons, Ithaca, NY; or CLICK
www.kitchentheatre.org and buy online.
GROUP RATES: Discounts are available when you come with a group. For details, call 607-272-0403.
WEBSITE: For more information on the Kitchen Theatre Company, visit www.kitchentheatre.org.

This piece is made possible in part by Sponsors Purity Ice Cream and Tompkins Trust Company and Media Sponsor WSKG Public Broadcasting. This funding helps the Kitchen bring bold, intimate and engaging theater to life.

KTC brings live music and dance to its 21st Season with In the Company of Dancers

Bold, intimate, engaging...Kitchen Theatre Company (KTC), now in its 21st season, is downtown Ithaca’s critically acclaimed and nationally recognized year-round professional theater company, specializing in regional and world premiere plays and musicals. KTC’s intimate 99-seat theater is in its newly renovated “green” building in the West End neighborhood of downtown Ithaca, New York. KTC is the first not-for-profit recipient of the David R. Strong Memorial “Small Business of the Year” Award from the Tompkins County Chamber of Commerce and receives public funds from the New York State Council on the Arts, a State Agency, and the Tompkins County Room Occupancy Tax Fund. The Kitchen Theatre Company also receives general operating support from the Shubert Foundation.

###
_________________
Michael Ludgate - forum administrator
The Canaan Institute http://www.canaaninstitute.org/

===

[Mike_L]

One night only – Schubert’s song cycle Winterreise at the Kitchen Theatre

Bass-baritone David Neal, with pianist Richard Montgomery, will perform Schubert’s great song cycle Winterreise at the Kitchen Theatre on Monday, October 3, at 7:30 pm. Performed without intermission, the piece is a part of the theatre’s “Kitchen Sink” series. Tickets are $11 in advance and $15 at the door. They may be purchased at Ticket Center Ithaca (171 The Commons), by phone at (607) 273-4497, or online at www.kitchentheatre.org.

Winterreise was one of Schubert’s last works, and he corrected proofs of several of its songs just days before his death in 1828 at the age of 31. During the previous year, he had discovered a set of twelve poems by Wilhelm Müller and set them to music, only to discover twelve more poems shortly after this. Schubert set these as well, and these twenty-four songs, in somewhat different order, comprise the cycle. In the first song, we meet the protagonist as he leaves his beloved’s house after an unhappy love affair and sets off into the winter night. Throughout the cycle, Schubert’s music describes his psychological dissolution as he struggles with this loss, and encounters the limits of his sanity.

David Neal (Kolya in Bed and Sofa) has appeared with many companies, including Lake George Opera, Syracuse Opera, Baltimore Opera, the Opera Company of Philadelphia, Central City Opera, Tri-Cities Opera, The Banff Centre, and Lyric Opera Cleveland. He has performed in concert at the Kennedy Center Concert Hall, and with the Cayuga Chamber Orchestra, Lancaster Symphony, Concert Artists of Baltimore, the Society for New Music, Ithaca Community Choruses, and many other organizations. Recent performances include the role of The Commissioner in the world premiere of The Secret Agent, a new opera by composer Michael Dellaira and librettist J. D. McClatchey, with the Center for Contemporary Opera in New York City last March. He will travel with the company to the Armel Festival in Szeged, Hungary, this month for a performance that will be broadcast live in Europe. David is a member of the American Modern Ensemble, an ensemble dedicated to the performance of new music, and performed with AME at Bargemusic this past July. He has commissioned and premiered songs by composers Robert Paterson and Lowell Liebermann, and gave the New York City premiere of Paterson’s Winter Songs at the The TimesCenter with AME in January 2009. Upcoming performances include Winterreise at the Everson Museum in Syracuse on November 9, and Handel’s Alexander’s Feast at Hamilton College on November 29. A graduate of Cornell University and the Peabody Conservatory, David is on the Performing Arts faculty at SUNY Cortland and is the Artistic Director of The Arts at Grace concert series. He lives in Groton with his wife, Gailanne Mackenzie.

Richard Montgomery (piano) received his Bachelor of Music in piano and conducting from University of North Carolina Greensboro and Masters of Music in Vocal Coaching and Accompanying from the University of Illinois where he studied with renowned accompanist John Wustman. He has performed as accompanist, conductor, music director and stage director in opera and musical theater throughout the United States and locally with Ithaca Opera, Kitchen Theatre, Cornell Theatre and the Hangar Theatre.


###
_________________
Michael Ludgate - forum administrator
The Canaan Institute http://www.canaaninstitute.org/

===

[Mike_L]

KTC tells a moving coming-of-age story with Charlayne Woodard’s Neat

Ithaca, NY: The Kitchen Theatre Company’s 21st Season continues with a powerful, funny, and moving coming-of-age story, Charlayne Woodard’s Neat. This one-woman powerhouse of a play previews on October 19, 20, and 21. Opening Night is Saturday, October 22 and performances run for three weeks, closing on Sunday, November 6, 2011.

Neat by Charlayne Woodard is masterful storytelling richly drawn from the playwright's own life. The play focuses on the teenage years of an African-American girl whose family moves from the South to the North in the turbulent 1960's. Part of the family is Aunt Neat, who was inadvertently poisoned as a baby resulting in brain damage and a life-long disability. Initially, young Charlayne adores her Aunt Neat, who seems like another child, but their relationship is tested as Charlayne becomes an adolescent. The story of the bond between these two is set against the struggles of typical teenage angst made tougher by outside prejudice and misunderstanding.

Directing the piece is Kitchen Theatre favorite Sara Lampert Hoover, director of last season’s The Tricky Part, as well as Yellowman, Souvenir, The Syringa Tree, and numerous others. "When Rachel offered me Neat by Charlayne Woodard to direct next season I immediately said 'yes.' I was first introduced to Woodard’s plays when I directed Pretty Fire at the Kitchen in 1999. Her work presents a director’s dream of theatrical possibilities. I am excited to re-connect with her intimate, soulful and joyous storytelling."

Playing all the roles, from the teenaged Charlayne to the guileless Neat to tough guy Charles Bowman and a host of relatives, teachers, and friends is Karen Pittman (member, AEA). New to the Kitchen Theatre, Pittman’s credits include film and television roles (30 Rock, Law and Order, One Life to Live and more) and onstage roles at the Kennedy Center, Manhattan Theatre Club, and McCarter Theatre, among others. She also understudied the role of Mom for the Broadway and film versions of Passing Strange.

The Franziska Racker Centers is partnering with the Kitchen Theatre Company to help broaden the audience for this production. The Racker Centers encourage all to gain a deeper understanding of disabilities, celebrating diversity and interdependence in our community.

Ed Intemann is the Lighting Designer for Neat and Sarah Bertolozzi is the Costume Designer. The Production Stage Manager is LaShawn Keyser. Performances will be at the Kitchen Theatre, located at 417 W. State / Martin Luther King, Jr. Street in downtown Ithaca, NY.

Tickets are available at the Ticket Center (visit 171 The Commons, or call 607-273-4497) and online at www.kitchentheatre.org.

Performance Dates:
Wed., Oct. 19, 2011 at 7:30pm (Preview 1 of 3)
Thurs., Oct. 20, 2011 at 7:30pm (Preview 2 of 3)
Fri., Oct. 21, 2011 at 8:00pm (Preview 3 of 3)
Sat., Oct. 22, 2011 at 8:00pm (Press Opening)
Sun., Oct. 23, 2011 at 4:00pm
Wed., Oct. 26, 2011 at 7:30pm
Thurs., Oct. 27, 2011 at 2:00pm (Matinee)
Thurs., Oct. 27, 2011 at 7:30pm
Fri., Oct. 28, 2011 at 8:00pm
Sat., Oct. 29, 2011 at 8:00pm
Sun., Oct. 30, 2011 at 4:00pm
Wed., Nov. 02, at 7:30pm
Thurs., Nov. 03, at 7:30pm
Fri., Nov. 04, at 8:00pm
Sat., Nov. 05, at 8:00pm
Sun., Nov. 06, 2011 at 4:00pm (Closing)

TICKETS: $18-32; CALL 607-273-4497; VISIT Ticket Center Ithaca, 171 The Commons, Ithaca, NY; or CLICK
www.kitchentheatre.org and buy online.
GROUP RATES: Discounts are available when you come with a group. For details, call 607-272-0403.
WEBSITE: For more information on the Kitchen Theatre Company, visit www.kitchentheatre.org.

This piece is made possible in part by Sponsor Cornell University and Community Partner Franziska Racker Centers. This funding helps the Kitchen bring bold, intimate and engaging theater to life.

Bold, intimate, engaging...Kitchen Theatre Company (KTC), now in its 21st season, is downtown Ithaca’s critically acclaimed and nationally recognized year-round professional theater company, specializing in regional and world premiere plays and musicals. KTC’s intimate 99-seat theater is in its newly renovated “green” building in the West End neighborhood of downtown Ithaca, New York. KTC is the first not-for-profit recipient of the David R. Strong Memorial “Small Business of the Year” Award from the Tompkins County Chamber of Commerce and receives public funds from the New York State Council on the Arts, a State Agency, and the Tompkins County Room Occupancy Tax Fund. The Kitchen Theatre Company also receives general operating support from the Shubert Foundation.

###
_________________
Michael Ludgate - forum administrator
The Canaan Institute http://www.canaaninstitute.org/

===

[Mike_L]

Deck the Halls with Boys in Dresses: The Mystery of Irma Vep at the Kitchen Theatre Company

Ithaca, NY: Spice up the holiday season at the Kitchen Theatre Company; their 21st season continues with the ever-popular and side-splitting Gothic comedy, The Mystery of Irma Vep. Preview tickets are available for November 3, December 1 and 2. Opening Night is December 3. The show runs for only three weeks, closing on December 18, 2011.

Grease up your funny bone and practice your breathing, because the Kitchen Theatre Company is planning to keep you laughing until your belly aches and your cheeks freeze into a perpetual smile. “How?” you say. Through the deliriously madcap Drama Desk Award-winning play The Mystery of Irma Vep. It’s not rocket science to understand why this is one of the most produced plays season after season all across the globe. Ludlam’s irresistible, wickedly funny, cross-dressing send-up of the gothic horror genre (and practically everything else), leaves no stone unturned, no pun unspoken and no wig unstyled. From the moment the play begins on a “dark and stormy night” in the Victorian mansion known as Mandacrest, it is clear that things are not what they seem to be. The enigmatic Lord Edgar and his new, inexperienced young bride, Lady Enid are off to a rough start. The ghost of his former wife – the late Irma Vep – haunts him. And with mysterious servants like Jane and Nicodemus, who wouldn’t wonder what a dark night could bring? Of course, all this is grist for the brilliant mind of playwright Charles Ludlam, whose love of great literature, stage and film divas, gender-bending theatrical exploits, and consuming desire to break all the rules combine in this wonderful spectacle.

From Mandacrest to Egypt and back again, a large cast of characters brings the play to life. And they are all played by just two actors! KTC welcomes back veterans Jesse Bush* (Precious Nonsense) and Tony Roach* (Secret Order), who will get an incredible workout as they make one quick change after another to put on this super fast-paced play. The Mystery of Irma Vep will be directed by Kitchen Theatre Artistic Director Rachel Lampert. “I love working with Tony and Jesse, and the fact that they will be in a play together is already making me laugh,” says Rachel Lampert. “This is a great show for the whole family (everyone 10+), with so many unexpected curveballs, you need a notepad to keep track.” (*Member, AEA)

Don’t miss the special event on December 9th – a preshow primer on Queer Theatre with a guest speaker and music by the Gay Men’s Chorus. For December 9th and all group sales, call (607) 272-0403. And keep an eye on our website and Facebook for backstage access to the show – www.kitchentheatre.org.

Tim Borden is the Set Designer and Scenic Artist for The Mystery of Irma Vep; Tyler Perry is the Lighting Designer, Lisa Boquist is the Costume Designer, and Lesley Greene is the Sound Designer. The Production Stage Manager is LaShawn Keyser. Performances will be at the Kitchen Theatre, located at 417 W. State / Martin Luther King, Jr. Street in downtown Ithaca, NY.

Tickets are available at the Ticket Center (visit 171 The Commons, or call 607-273-4497) and online at www.kitchentheatre.org. For the holidays, treat yourself or a friend to a Taste of the Kitchen 3-Play Pass, also available at the Ticket Center and online.

Performance Dates:
Wed., Nov. 30, 2011 at 7:30pm (Preview 1 of 3)
Thurs., Dec. 01, 2011 at 7:30pm (Preview 2 of 3)
Fri., Dec. 02, 2011 at 8:00pm (Preview 3 of 3)
Sat., Dec. 03, 2011 at 8:00pm (Press Opening)
Sun., Dec. 04, 2011 at 4:00pm
Wed., Dec. 07, 2011 at 7:30pm
Thurs., Dec. 08, 2011 at 2:00pm (Matinee)
Thurs., Dec. 08, 2011 at 7:30pm
Fri., Dec. 09, 2011 at 8:00pm
Sat., Dec. 10, 2011 at 8:00pm
Sun., Dec. 11, 2011 at 4:00pm
Wed., Dec. 14, 2011 at 7:30pm
Thurs., Dec. 15, 2011 at 7:30pm
Fri., Dec. 16, 2011 at 8:00pm
Sat., Dec. 17, 2011 at 8:00pm
Sun., Dec. 18, 2011 at 4:00pm (Closing)


Bold, intimate, engaging...Kitchen Theatre Company (KTC), now in its 21st season, is downtown Ithaca’s critically acclaimed and nationally recognized year-round professional theater company, specializing in regional and world premiere plays and musicals. KTC’s intimate 99-seat theater is in its newly renovated “green” building in the West End neighborhood of downtown Ithaca, New York. KTC is the first not-for-profit recipient of the David R. Strong Memorial “Small Business of the Year” Award from the Tompkins County Chamber of Commerce and receives public funds from the New York State Council on the Arts, a State Agency, and the Tompkins County Room Occupancy Tax Fund. The Kitchen Theatre Company also receives general operating support from the Shubert Foundation.

TICKETS: $18-32; CALL 607-273-4497; VISIT Ticket Center Ithaca, 171 The Commons, Ithaca, NY; or CLICK
www.kitchentheatre.org and buy online.
GROUP RATES: Discounts are available when you come with a group. For details, call 607-272-0403.
WEBSITE: For more information on the Kitchen Theatre Company, visit www.kitchentheatre.org.

This piece is made possible in part by Underwriter Viva Taqueria & Cantina and Media Sponsor Syracuse New Times.This funding helps the Kitchen bring bold, intimate and engaging theater to life.

###
_________________
Michael Ludgate - forum administrator
The Canaan Institute http://www.canaaninstitute.org/

===

[Mike_L]

Transcendentalism Tries on a Blue Collar in KTC’s World Premiere Play Call Me Waldo

Ithaca, NY: Start the New Year with a transcendental twist with the Kitchen Theatre Company’s world premiere comedy Call Me Waldo, with previews on January 18, 19, and 20. Opening Night is January 21. It runs for three weeks, closing on February 5, 2012.

Everyone’s mid-life ennui rises to the surface in a different way. Some people get divorced, some buy a sports car or a boat, some change jobs and try to start fresh. Not many start to channel the great American poet and essayist Ralph Waldo Emerson, but that is exactly what happens to electrician’s assistant Lee Fountain in Rob Ackerman’s new play Call Me Waldo. Lee is usually a low-key guy, a member of the crew who doesn’t make waves. So when he starts spouting poetry on the job site, his irascible boss, Gus, is sure he’s witnessing a breakdown. Mix into this situation Lee’s wife Sarah, a no-nonsense nurse, and her friend Cynthia, a doctor ready to advise, and soon everyone is on the path to figure out Lee’s behavior and, unintentionally, figure out much about themselves. This is a modern love story that celebrates the workingman, the power of words, and the joy and pain of transformation. Like a film by Woody Allen, Call Me Waldo explores what happens when we get under each other’s skins and does it with humor and heart.

Continuing the tradition of bold, intimate, and engaging works, the Kitchen is proud to host the world premiere of Call Me Waldo. The play comes to KTC from the Lark Play Development Center in New York City, and immediately after our closingwill have its Off-Broadway premiere at the Working Theater in NYC. Artistic Director Rachel Lampert says, “This play is terrifically appealing. The characters are fun, and they echo all of our hopes to live full and significant lives. It is a comedy with characters we don’t always get to know. I love that the guys are electricians and that we are brought so authentically into their world. And, of course, spending time with the words of Emerson is delightful.” Author Rob Ackerman adds, “Call Me Waldo is a play about a guy who falls in love with Emerson’s idealism and how he shakes up those around him and forces them to question everything.”

Up from NYC is Kitchen Theatre veteran director Margarett Perry* (At the Kitchen: Private Lives, STRANGERHORSE, A Marriage Minuet, The Two of You, A Play On Words among others). Her cast includes three actors well known to the Kitchen and one newcomer.

Matthew Boston appeared at the Kitchen with Rita Rehn and Brian Dysktra in A Marriage Minuet and also in Dykstra’s STRANGERHORSE and The Two Of You. Brian Dyktsra was last seen at the Kitchen in Noël Coward’s Private Lives and has performed here in many of his own plays, including Clean Alternatives, The Jesus Factor, Ho!, and A Play On Words. New to the Kitchen is Jennifer Dorr White, a regular on the Onion News Network, who completes the cast. All four members of the cast are members of Actors’ Equity.
David Arsenault (Kitchen credits: Mary’s Wedding and The Brothers Size) is the Set & Lighting Designer for Call Me Waldo. The Sound Design is by Don Tindall (Kitchen credits: STRANGERHORSE, Old Times). Hannah Kochman is the Costume Designer. The Production Stage Manager is LaShawn Keyser. Performances will be at the Kitchen Theatre, located at 417 W. State / Martin Luther King, Jr. Street in Ithaca’s West End neighborhood, just three blocks from The Commons.

Tickets are available at the Ticket Center (visit 171 The Commons, or call 607-273-4497) and online at www.kitchentheatre.org. For the holidays, treat yourself or a friend to a Taste of the Kitchen 3-Play Pass, also available at the Ticket Center and online.

Performance Dates:
Wed., Jan. 18, 2012 at 7:30pm (Preview 1 of 3)
Thurs., Jan. 19, 2012 at 7:30pm (Preview 2 of 3)
Fri., Jan. 20, 2012 at 8:00pm (Preview 3 of 3)
Sat., Jan. 21, 2012 at 8:00pm (Press Opening)
Sun., Jan. 22, 2012 at 4:00pm
Wed., Jan. 25, 2012 at 7:30pm
Thurs., Jan. 26, 2012 at 2:00pm (Matinee)
Thurs., Jan. 26, 2012 at 7:30pm
Fri., Jan. 27, 2012 at 8:00pm
Sat., Jan. 28, 2012 at 8:00pm
Sun., Jan. 29, 2012 at 4:00pm
Wed., Feb. 01, 2012 at 7:30pm
Thurs., Feb. 02, 2012 at 7:30pm
Fri., Feb. 03, 2012 at 8:00pm
Sat., Feb. 04, 2012 at 8:00pm
Sun., Feb. 05, 2012 at 4:00pm (Closing)

TICKETS: $18-35; CALL 607-273-4497; VISIT Ticket Center Ithaca, 171 The Commons, Ithaca, NY; or CLICK www.kitchentheatre.org and buy online.
GROUP RATES: Discounts are available when you come with a group. For details, call 607-272-0403.
WEBSITE: For more information on the Kitchen Theatre Company, visit www.kitchentheatre.org.

This production is made possible in part by Underwriter TOMPKINS TRUST COMPANY and Sponsors AUDREY EDELMAN RealtyUSA and ELISSA COGAN & BARRY CHESTER.This funding helps the Kitchen bring bold, intimate and engaging theater to life.


Bold, intimate, engaging...Kitchen Theatre Company (KTC), now in its 21st season, is downtown Ithaca’s critically acclaimed and nationally recognized year-round professional theater company, specializing in regional and world premiere plays and musicals. KTC’s intimate 99-seat theater is in its newly renovated “green” building in the West End neighborhood of downtown Ithaca, New York. KTC is the first not-for-profit recipient of the David R. Strong Memorial “Small Business of the Year” Award from the Tompkins County Chamber of Commerce and receives public funds from the New York State Council on the Arts, a State Agency, and the Tompkins County Room Occupancy Tax Fund. The Kitchen Theatre Company also receives general operating support from the Shubert Foundation.

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_________________
Michael Ludgate - forum administrator
The Canaan Institute http://www.canaaninstitute.org/

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[Mike_L]

Sex. Power. Obsession. Red Light Winter by Adam Rapp heats up the Kitchen Theatre

Ithaca, NY: Adam Rapp’s Pulitzer Prize nominated Red Light Winter lays bare the passions of three young people caught in a love triangle so dangerous and obsessive that it pushes them to the brink. Red Light Winter previews at the Kitchen Theatre Company on February 22, 23, and 24 and opens on Saturday, February 25. It runs for three weeks, closing March 11, 2012.

The story begins in the seductive city of Amsterdam. It is winter. Davis, an up-and-coming young editor, riding high after a recent editorial success, and his college-buddy Matt, a struggling playwright, have come to partake in all the tantalizing freedoms the city allows. Both 30, both on the cusp of all that is possible in their lives, their dream-like experience peaks when Davis purchases the services of Christina, a mysterious prostitute from the Red Light District, as a gift to Matt. Their Red Light Winter changes all three lives forever.

Playwright Adam Rapp is known for his bold, authentic depictions of his generation. Swaggering, posturing for power, and uncensored in their language, Rapp’s characters are shocking and alluring at the same time. Matt and Davis’ post-college lives have taken different directions, but their friendship has endured with shifting power plays, goading and button pushing. Their conversation is filled with jabs and outrageous fun at the other’s expense. Rapp makes sure we see the brilliance of their minds and the depth of their intelligence through hilarious and abrasive dialogue that captures the raw truth of their desperation to bring meaning to their lives.

The New York Times called it “a frank, graphic story of erotic fixation and the havoc it can wreak on sensitive souls.” Artistic Director Rachel Lampert says, “Red Light Winter is a risky piece and a fascinating one. The characters are all controversial—their language and behavior are alarming—but it rings so true. What is the price paid when close friends betray each other? These three characters are each flawed in ways that make them brilliant, sad and longing for connection.”

Red Light Winter is directed by KTC Artistic Director Rachel Lampert and has an all Actors’ Equity cast of three Kitchen veterans. Ellen Adair and Eric Gilde, seen last season in Mary’s Wedding by Stephen Massicotte, are up from NYC. Jesse Bush, most recently seen as many characters in The Mystery of Irma Vep by Charles Ludlam, returns to the Kitchen in the role of Davis.

Set design is by Kent Goetz (at the Kitchen: Private Lives, A Marriage Minuet, The Drunken City, STRANGERHORSE among others). This production marks Michael Kalmanowitz's first lighting design at the Kitchen. Lesley Greene is the assistant director and sound designer (at the Kitchen: Mary’s Wedding, The Mystery of Irma Vep, Neat, Circle Mirror Transformation among others). Lisa Boquist (at the Kitchen: Mary’s Wedding, Private Lives, Circle Mirror Transformation, Neat, Precious Nonsense, among others) is the costume designer. The Production Stage Manager is LaShawn Keyser. Performances will be at the Kitchen Theatre, located at 417 W. State / Martin Luther King, Jr. Street in downtown Ithaca, NY.

Due to language, nudity and sexual situations, Red Light Winter is suggested for audiences 18+.

Performance Dates:
Wed., Feb. 22, 2012 at 7:30pm (Preview 1 of 3)
Thurs., Feb. 23, 2012 at 7:30pm (Preview 2 of 3)
Fri., Feb. 24, 2012 at 8:00pm (Preview 3 of 3)
Sat., Feb. 25, 2012 at 8:00pm (Press Opening)
Sun., Feb. 26, 2012 at 4:00pm
Wed., Feb. 29, 2012 at 7:30pm
Thurs., Mar. 01, 2012 at 7:30pm
Fri., Mar. 02, 2012 at 8:00pm
Sat., Mar. 03, 2012 at 8:00pm
Sun., Mar. 04, 2012 at 4:00pm
Wed., Mar. 07, 2012 at 7:30pm
Thurs., Mar. 08, 2012 at 7:30pm
Fri., Mar. 09, 2012 at 8:00pm
Sat., Mar. 10, 2012 at 8:00pm
Sun., Mar. 11, 2012 at 4:00pm (Closing)

Bold, intimate, engaging...Kitchen Theatre Company (KTC), now in its 21st season, is downtown Ithaca’s critically acclaimed and nationally recognized year-round professional theater company, specializing in regional and world premiere plays and musicals. KTC’s intimate 99-seat theater is in its newly renovated “green” building in the West End neighborhood of downtown Ithaca, New York. KTC is the first not-for-profit recipient of the David R. Strong Memorial “Small Business of the Year” Award from the Tompkins County Chamber of Commerce and receives public funds from the New York State Council on the Arts, a State Agency, and the Tompkins County Room Occupancy Tax Fund. The Kitchen Theatre Company also receives general operating support from the Shubert Foundation.

TICKETS: $18-35; CALL 607-273-4497; VISIT Ticket Center Ithaca, 171 The Commons, Ithaca, NY; or CLICK www.kitchentheatre.org and buy online.
GROUP RATES: Discounts are available when you come with a group. For details, call 607-272-0403.
WEBSITE: For more information on the Kitchen Theatre Company, visit www.kitchentheatre.org.

This piece is made possible by sponsors 98.7 The Vine and WNNY 1470 AM. This funding helps the Kitchen bring bold, intimate and engaging theater to life.

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_________________
Michael Ludgate - forum administrator
The Canaan Institute http://www.canaaninstitute.org/

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[Mike_L]

Family Drama Takes Center Stage at KTC with Nathan Louis Jackson’s Broke-ology

Ithaca, NY: According to Ennis King, the older brother in Nathan Louis Jackson’s Broke-ology that opens for previews at the Kitchen Theatre on April 4th and runs through April 22nd, he has developed a new scientific theory. As Ennis explains to his younger brother Malcolm, “Broke-ology…is a complex new science that examines two things. One, being broke. Two, staying alive despite your brokenness.” Ennis and Malcolm are experts in broke-ology, and their situation is complicated by their aging father William’s quickening decline. Poverty, the American dream and the ties that bind a family together are brought into focus in this poignant, funny and insightful new play.

Ennis’s life is in Kansas City. His girlfriend is expecting and he is scrambling for extra hours at the restaurant to prepare for the baby. Malcolm’s life has been established on the East Coast. After earning a Master’s degree in Connecticut, he returns home for a summer job. Ennis and Malcolm argue over responsibility and duty, priorities and selfishness. With a baby on the way for Ennis and a potentially life-changing career back east for Malcolm, who should make the sacrifice to care for their father?

William King intends to live on his own so both his sons can get on with their lives. He longs for the days before he lost his wife Sonia, when they were both making the sacrifices for their sons to have a better life. Now Sonia comes to him in dreams of easier times, when being broke was something they didn’t see as their future.

“I am excited to have this wonderful cast to work with. This is a terrific play and I know it will resonate with many as the country continues to live through its own study of broke-ology,” says Artistic Director Rachel Lampert, who will direct the play.

Broke-ology’s all-Equity cast stars two new faces to the Kitchen Theatre: Chad Carstarphen and Ohene Cornelius, both from New York City. Returning to the Kitchen are Alexander Thomas (Throw Pitchfork, After Ashley) and Ronica Reddick (boom, Pecan Tan).
Veteran designer David Arsenault (Call Me Waldo, Mary’s Wedding, The Brothers Size) returns to do the set and lighting design for Broke-ology. Lesley Greene (The Mystery of Irma Vep, Red Light Winter) will create the sound design and Lisa Boquist (Red Light Winter, NEAT, Circle, Mirror, Transformation, Private Lives) is the costume designer. The Production Stage Manager is LaShawn Keyser. The play will be directed by Kitchen Theatre Company Artistic Director, Rachel Lampert. Performances will be at the Kitchen Theatre, located at 417 W. State / Martin Luther King, Jr. Street in downtown Ithaca, NY.

Performance Dates:
Wed., Apr. 04, 2012 at 7:30pm (Preview 1 of 3)
Thurs., Apr. 05, 2012 at 7:30pm (Preview 2 of 3)
Fri., Apr. 06, 2012 at 8:00pm (Preview 3 of 3)
Sat., Apr. 07, 2012 at 8:00pm (Press Opening)
Sun., Apr. 08, 2012 at 4:00pm
Wed., Apr. 11, 2012 at 7:30pm
Thurs., Apr. 12, 2012 at 7:30pm
Fri., Apr. 13, 2012 at 8:00pm
Sat., Apr. 14, 2012 at 8:00pm
Sun., Apr. 15, 2012 at 4:00pm
Wed., Apr. 18, 2012 at 7:30pm
Thurs., Apr. 19, 2012 at 7:30pm
Fri., Apr. 20, 2012 at 8:00pm
Sat., Apr. 21, 2012 at 8:00pm
Sun., Apr. 22, 2012 at 4:00pm (Closing)


Bold, intimate, engaging...Kitchen Theatre Company (KTC), now in its 21st season, is downtown Ithaca’s critically acclaimed and nationally recognized year-round professional theater company, specializing in regional and world premiere plays and musicals. KTC’s intimate 99-seat theater is in its newly renovated “green” building in the West End neighborhood of downtown Ithaca, New York. KTC is the first not-for-profit recipient of the David R. Strong Memorial “Small Business of the Year” Award from the Tompkins County Chamber of Commerce and receives public funds from the New York State Council on the Arts, a State Agency, and the Tompkins County Room Occupancy Tax Fund. The Kitchen Theatre Company also receives general operating support from the Shubert Foundation.

TICKETS: $18-35; CALL 607-273-4497; VISIT Ticket Center Ithaca, 171 The Commons, Ithaca, NY; or CLICK www.kitchentheatre.org and buy online.
GROUP RATES: Discounts are available when you come with a group. For details, call 607-272-0403.
WEBSITE: For more information on the Kitchen Theatre Company, visit www.kitchentheatre.org.

This piece is made possible by sponsor James Orcutt Real Estate. This funding helps the Kitchen bring bold, intimate and engaging theater to life.

###
_________________
Michael Ludgate - forum administrator
The Canaan Institute http://www.canaaninstitute.org/

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