Tarragon Double Bill: Little One & Other People's Children

Opening this week at Tarragon is a double bill of mighty weight from predominant Canadian playwright Hannah Moscovitch. Hannah Moscovitch is one of the most prolific playwrights of her generation and considered one of the strongest voices in the country. Her Governor General-nominated East of Berlin premiered at Tarragon to great acclaim, and toured successfully for two seasons. This prodigious young talent’s most recent play, The Children’s Republic, premiered at Tarragon in 2011 rave reviews. Here are the two pieces that have just begun previews; check out the previews below and for tickets CLICK HERE: 

Show Descriptions: 

Little One

by Hannah Moscovitch
directed by Natasha Mytnowych

PREMIERE | IN CO-PRODUCTION WITH THEATRE CRISIS

Two adopted siblings grow up together in affluent Ottawa. Claire and Aaron love each other with all their hearts. But for some people, loving and destroying are the same thing. A new production of this stylish thriller, reworked since making a splash at SummerWorks 2011.

                                   

Other People’s Children

by Hannah Moscovitch
directed by Paul Lampert

PREMIERE | IN CO-PRODUCTION WITH THEATRE PANIK

When Ilana returns to work, she and her husband Ben hire a live-in nanny to care for their young daughter. At first, Ilana is touched by how well her daughter takes to Sati, but the strength of their bond quickly becomes alarming.

Preview: Shakespeare's Nigga

We here at EAP attended the opening last night at Passe Muraille of Shakespeare's Nigga. Let's just say we found it to be quite strong. It was deliciously poetic and tragic and full of captivating/shocking moments that we found spellbinding. The acting was SUPERB as well. Check out this piece, especially all you theatre lovers! For tickets please CLICK HERE! For more info scroll below...

Show Description:

Shakespeare: Surely I have lost control; but I did love you Aaron. I created you all, loved you all.

Aaron: Then, why was my tongue tied so tight?

Two iconic black characters in Shakespeare's work are brought to life in this visionary play. The piece takes you on a journey into the hearts and minds of Othello and Titus Andronicus' Aaron as they confront their creator. This play is subversive and poetic. It will dare you to see Shakespeare in a whole new light.

SHAKESPEARE'S NIGGA
On until February 23, 2013

Playing at Theatre Passe Muraille in the Main Space
Produced by Obsidian Theatre in association with Theatre Passe Muraille & 3D Atomic
Written by Joseph Jomo Pierre
Directed by Philip Akin
Starring Sascha Cole, David Collins, John Jarvis, Joseph Pierre and Andre Sils

Exciting Sharron Matthews and Buddies NEWS!!!

PRESS RELEASE c/o BUDDIES:


BUDDIES IN BAD TIMES ANNOUNCES SHARRON MATTHEWS AS CABARET-ARTIST-IN-RESIDENCE

Residency Sponsor BMO Financial Group

Buddies is thrilled to announce that long-time friend and cabaret sensation Sharron Matthews will join us as the company's first-ever Cabaret Artist in Residence, as part of the Artist Residency Program.

Recognizing that Toronto is a city bursting with cabaret talent but that it lacks development opportunities for these artists, Buddies created this new position to provide comprehensive support to a promising cabaret artist as they create new work. Buddies has long been a home for the city's cabaret performers. The creation of the new position of Cabaret Artist in Residence builds on this proud history and will further establish Toronto as world leader in the form.

Sharron's groundbreaking work in the genre and her longstanding relationship with Buddies promise to make an exciting inaugural year for this position. Her impressive resume includes Global TV’s hit show Canada Sings, a long list of original cabaret performances including Jesus Thinks I’m Funny(named Best of the Fest at the 2011 Edinburgh Fringe Festival) and Sharron Matthews Superstar(named 2010’s #1 Cabaret in New York City by WPAT Radio), and a number of performances here at Buddies.


As part of her residency, Sharron will present a workshop showing of her new work Full Dark on March 4 & 5, 2013. She will also be hosting an open mic/variety evening on May 11 & 12, 2013.


ABOUT THE ARTIST RESIDENCY PROGRAM:


Buddies' Artist Residency Program is a unique program in the country devoted to the nurturing and development of queer voices through the creation of original performance works. Resident artists are offered space and time in the theatre along with dramaturgical, technical, production, and administrative support.

Current Artists in Residence include Birdtown and Swanville, Ecce Homo Theatre, The Gay Heritage Project (Damien Atkins, Paul Dunn, and Andrew Kushnir), George Stamos, Independent Aunties Theatre, and Nina Arsenault. Buddies productions developed in residency include Tawiah M’carthy’s Obaaberima and Ecce Homo’s upcoming Of a Monstrous Child: a gaga musical.

Buddies in Bad Times Theatre presents
FULL DARK
by Sharron Matthews
a workshop presentation
March 4-5, 2013 at 8PM
Tickets
Box Office 416-975-8555 or buddiesinbadtimes.com
Buddies in Bad Times Theatre, 12 Alexander St, Toronto ON, M4Y 1B4

Preview: Do You Want What I Have Got? A CRAIGSLIST CANTATA

Just beginning previews is the new piece, Do You Want What I Have Got? A Craigslist Cantata, a new musical song cycle from Acting Up Stage Company and Factory Theatre. Acting Up is the same delicious company that brought us the powerhouse award winning productions; Caroline, Or Change, Parade and The Light in The Piazza. 

Do You Want What I Have Got? looks like a real warming gem here in the dead of winter. For tickets please CLICK HERE. And for more info check out the description and details below...

Show Description: 

Wonder. Whimsy. What if’s.

Having sold-out its extended run at Vancouver’s PuSh Festival in Jan 2012, this original musical by Veda Hille & Bill Richardson sets actual Craigslist postings to music in a 90 minute song-cycle. Both hilarious and surprisingly poignant, Do You Want What I Have Got? explores contemporary humanity through the lens of Craigslist—an online classified site with over 50 million ads posted each month.

Bill Richardson is an award-winning writer and broadcaster with CBC Radio since 1984 and currently host of “Saturday Afternoon at the Opera” and “In Concert.”

Veda Hille has been writing songs, making records, and playing shows all over since 1992. She has released 13 albums, the latest being Young Saint Marie.

Do You Want What I Have Got? A Craigslist Cantata

By Veda Hille & Bill Richardson
January 30 – March 3, 2013
Co-produced by Acting Up Stage Company and Factory Theatre
Studio Theatre

Directed by

Amiel Gladstone

Musical Direction by
Veda Hille

Choreographed by
Monica Dottor

Starring
Dmitry Chepovetsky
Bree Greig
Daren A. Herbert
Veda Hille
Selina Martin
Barry Mirochnick

Last week/end for BODY 13 at Theatre Passe Muraille

This is your last chance to catch this romantic tale from MT Space and Theatre Passe Muraille. Above is the production trailer and for tickets please CLICK HERE!

Show Description:

Body 13 exists on a stretch of Canadian beach during one sunny day between a funeral in the morning and a wedding in the evening. From the company that brought us the emotionally charged The Last 15 Seconds, this show uses MT Space’s signature visually captivating physical style. Body 13 looks at characters driven by their sexual desires— propelled forward or derailed because of love across cultural differences.


BODY 13

Produced by MT Space in association with Theatre Passe Muraille
Directed by Majdi Bou-Matar
Created by the Company
Featuring Badih AbouChakra, Jessalyn Broadfoot, Brad Cook (appears courtesy of Canadian Actors Equity Association), Trevor Copp, Nada Humsi, Tawiah Ben M’Carthy, Pam Patel.
Production Stage Manager: Hannah Metcalfe
Set & Lighting Design: Jennifer Jimenez
Costume Design: Denis Huneault-Joffre

On until JANUARY 26, 2013 at Theatre Passe Muraille Mainspace

B[art]er Event at the AGO

Thank you to B[art]er, Sue Edworthy and Ricardo McRae for a wonderful evening on Wednesday. A beautiful group of art professionals came together to talk social media and the business of art.

Very Inspiring indeed!

Next Stage Festival Toronto

Already two days in and the festival that kicks off the new year is already soaring high with sold out shows, hot buzz and gossip and loads of warm red wine. Check out the details and for more info on shows please click the shows below and to purchase tickets please CLICK HERE!

FACTORY THEATRE MAINSPACE:

AWAKE

THE PEACE MAKER

SUDDEN DEATH

THRONE OF GAMES

FACTORY THEATRE STUDIO:

MEMORIAL

POST EDEN

SALT BABY

WITH LOVE AND A MAJOR ORGAN

FACTORY THEATRE ANTECHAMBER:

LIZA LIVE

PITCH BLOND

_______________________________________________________

TICKETS
Tickets are on sale now!

ONLINE

Click here!

BY PHONE

416.966.1062

10am – 5:30pm MON-FRI (Nov. 19th – Jan 2nd)

1pm – 7pm MON-FRI (Jan. 2nd – 19th)

Visa or Mastercard only.

*Gift Vouchers are available (by phone only)

AT THE DOOR

NSTF Tickets can be purchased at the Factory Theatre one hour before the first show of the day, January 2nd – 13th, 2013.

Cash, Visa and Mastercard accepted (NO Debit or Amex).

TICKET PRICING

$15 Evening Performances (7pm onwards start-time)

$12 Afternoon Performances (6:59pm or earlier start-time)

$10 Ante-Chamber performances

PASSES

$48 – Four Play Pass: Good for 4 tickets, redeemable in advance by phone or at the door. Maximum of one ticket per play. Non-transferrable.

$88 Eight Play Pass: Good for 8 tickets redeemable in advance by phone or at the door / Maximum of two tickets per play per pass. This pass can be used by two patrons.

Angelwalk Announces Cast and Creative for Ordinary Days

One show EAP is looking forward to seeing this season is Angelwalk's production of Ordinary Days.  This show got a lot of buzz and even made it to the Great White Way before fizzling out in a disappointing four day run.  However, many who saw the show,during Its New York debut thought it was wonderful, if not a Broadway sensation.  So when Angelwalk's announced that they would be bringing Ordinary Days to Toronto we were intrigued   Yesterday the company announced its cast and creative for the run, which is November 29 - 9th.

As previously announced, the cast will star past Angelwalk Theatre performers Justin Bott, Jay Davis, and Clara Scott, along with newcomer Connie Manfredi, who is making her Toronto and Angelwalk Theatre debut.

Ordinary Days follows four young 20-30 year olds whose lives intersect as they search for fulfillment, love and happiness. When Deb loses her most precious possession - the notes to her graduate thesis - she unwittingly starts a chain of events that turns the ordinary days of four New Yorkers into something extraordinary. Ordinary Days made its world-premiere at the Roundabout Theatre in New York City in 2009 to rave reviews. "Full of idiosyncratic charm" (Time Out New York), Ordinary Days contains an emotionally powerful score with lyrics that are "arrestingly poetic" (LA Times). Remotegoat London gave the show five stars and calls it "one of the best musicals I have seen all year".


Angelwalk Theatre and Winnipeg Studio Theatre are excited to announce that they have commissioned Canadian musical theatre composer, arranger and playwright Joseph Aragon (Theatre20's Bloodless: The Trial of Burke and Hare) to arrange the first-ever orchestrations for Ordinary Days. Canadian audiences will be the first to hear these new arrangements, which will go on to be included in future productions of Ordinary Days.

Angelwalk is making a name for itself in Toronto by bringing new and unseen musical theatre to the Toronto audience.  Their development work on this show helps to push them onto the international stage.  Dora-nominated producers of I Love You Because, Off-Broadway On Stage, [title of show] and Altar Boyz, Angelwalk Theatre, is thrilled to reveal the creative team for its upcoming Canadian premiere of Ordinary Days, being co-produced with Winnipeg Studio Theatre. From exciting new composer Adam Gwon, this honest, touching and funny musical runs at Manitoba Theatre Centre's Tom Hendry Warehouse Theatre from November 21-25, 2012 before opening at the Toronto Centre for the Arts on November 30, 2012 and running until December 9, 2012.

From the release -

Most recently seen in from Justin to Kelly, Justin Bott returns to Angelwalk Theatre after his Dora-nominated performance in [title of show] and his performance in Songs for a New World. Other credits include Dirty Rotten Scoundrels (Moonpath), The Wedding Singer and Joseph and the Technicolor Dreamcoat (Stage West), Romeo & Juliet and Macbeth (Classical Theatre Project), and A Midsummer Night's Dream (Citadel Theatre). Jay Davis was recently seen in Queen For A Day: The Musical (Richmond Hill Centre for the Performing Arts), The Last Five Years (Rose Theatre), and Next to Normal (Clearwater Theatre Co.). Jay was a part of Angelwalk Theatre's Dora-nominated production of I Love You Because and also performed in Birdland Theatre's Assassins. Clara Scott appeared in last season's Dora-nominated production of Off-Broadway On Stage. Other credits include Project Actif (Mixed Company), Spring Awakening and Reefer Madness (L.O.T.), Before Breakfast and After the Sun (Williamstown Theatre Festival). Connie Manfredi has appeared in Avenue Q (District Theatre Collective), The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee and Spring Awakening (Winnipeg Studio Theatre), and The Littlewoods (zone 41). Connie is a graduate of the acting program at the University of Winnipeg.

Also previously announced, Ordinary Days will be directed by Kayla Gordon, Winnipeg Studio Theatre's Artistic Director, music directed by Paul De Gurse, and choreographed by Brenda Gorlick. Set and costumes will be designed by Scott Penner with lighting design by Siobhán Sleath.

Subscriptions for Angelwalk Theatre's 2012/2013 two-show subscription season (Ordinary Days & I Love You, You're Perfect, Now Change), are now on sale, with Early-Bird prices in effect until October 31st. In addition to the subscription discount, subscribers also save because there are no additional service fees on subscription tickets, and tickets can easily be exchanged for any other performance.


SHOW DETAILS

Runs: November 29 - December 9, 2012
Opening: November 30, 2012
Schedule: Tues-Sat @ 8 p.m.; Sun @ 2 p.m.
Tickets: $35-$45
Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased online here
by phone at  1-855-985-2787,
and in person at the Toronto Centre for the Arts .

Fringe New Play Contest

2013 Fringe New Play Contest

Applications for the 2013 Fringe New Play Contest are now open!

Remember Kim’s Convenience? Remember Help Yourself? These Fringe shows were brought into the spotlight by the Fringe New Play Contest, sponsored by Exclamation Foundation and macIDeas. If you’re a playwright and want to be a household name, the Fringe New Play Contest is the best way to fast-track that success. Even better – this year is Fringe’s 25th Anniversary, so the media attention will be bigger and bolder than ever!

Details are available on the Fringe website.

 First Place Winner will receive the following:

1. A free spot in the 2013 Toronto Fringe Festival.

2. A cash prize of $1250 courtesy of Exclamation Foundation Inc. and macIDeas.

3. Production consultation courtesy of Exclamation Foundation and macIDeas.

 Applications close on Friday October 26th at 5pm, or when 80 applications are received.

Contact    416-966-1062 x 3  
or creation@fringetoronto.com for more information.

This is a great opportunity for a young playwright and we strongly encourage you to enter your work.  Even if it isn't finished.  The Fringe is a development vehicle and a great way to workshop and continue developing your play.

AMALUNA in Toronto

The tent went up today...

Cirque du Soleil's newest creation is days away from opening -- AMALUNA arrives next week!

AMALUNA is Cirque du Soleil’s 32nd production since 1984. The company has brought wonder and delight to more than 100 million spectators in more than 300 cities on six continents. Cirque du Soleil has 5,000 employees, including more than 1,300 performing artists from close to 50 different countries.
Performance schedule: Tuesdays & Wednesdays at 8 p.m.; Thursdays through Saturdays at 4 p.m. and 8 p.m.; Sundays at 1 p.m. and 5 p.m. No performances on Mondays. As it may vary, please visit cirquedusoleil.com/amaluna for the detailed show schedule.

Preview: Sharron Matthews Superstar: GOLD

Tonight is the night! Our girl Sharron is premiering her GOLD cabaret piece TONIGHT at Buddies in Bad Times Theatre. Sure to be jammed full of hilarious, moving, heartfelt and robust storytelling and musical arrangements; Sharron is the Toronto Mother of cabaret and what a privilege it is to see her under the lights, shinning bright! Sharron is at Buddies until Sunday!

"Best of the Fest 2011" The Scotsman
"#1 Cabaret in New York City in 2010" - NitelifeExchange
"Best Cabaret Performer 2009" -Now Magazine

A Message From Sharron's team:

COME ON OUT TO THE Kick off of Sharron's 2012 Tour!

She is traveling to Scotland, London, New York City and South Africa!! LORD!! 

Sharron's ONLY TORONTO shows in 2012 is this weekend!

Tickets are $20.00
Show @ 8pm

Call Buddies Box Office #416 975 8555 for TIX or go down to 12 Alexander Street

Box Office Hours are 12-5 Tuesday to Saturday

HER SOLID GOLD HITS!! And NEW dreamy numbers and stories...all GOLD! GOLD DIGGERS! GOLD STEALERS!! GOLD SEQUINS!!! You get the picture people!

The BEST shows of the Toronto Fringe (so far)...

Alright darlings I have been on a FRINGE binge and I have some fucking wonderful shows to recommend to you all! It has been such a pleasure seeing so much fresh, passionate theatre on those Toronto stages. How refreshing I must say. Ok so below are my favourite shows so far at the Fringe this year:

1. POMME FRENCH IS FOR APPLE
Written and performed by Liza Paul and Bahia Watson

Not sure if it is because I identify so strongly with being a black woman or not, but this piece of theatre had me roaring, rolling and sobbing with laughter from the opening moment until curtain call. These two actresses, Liza Paul and Bahia Watson are sublime and sparkle like something fierce. All their various characters are polished and the acting is razor sharp. I could rave about this show for hours so please just check these angels out!

Venue 10 – Theatre Passe Muraille, 16 Ryerson Avenue:

July 09 08:45 PM, July 10 04:30 PM, July 12 12:00 PM, July 13 06:15 PM, July 14 01:45 PM

2. SOULO

Written by the Soul Circus Collective, Directed by Tracey Erin Smith

Wow so I just saw SOULO this afternoon and I thought it was absolutely delicious. It was wonderfully warm and fresh, it felt very current, relatable and it was very smart. The three actors which carry the three vignette's Terrence Bryant, DJ Edwards and Marco Bernardi all deliver strong and soulful performances that feel natural and passionate. I can only say that I hope the piece moves on to a larger theatrical run, I'm thinking maybe Buddies in Bad Times? (Brendan Healy, hi!) and receives a longer running time where we can dive deeper into the more poignant, darker parts of their souls. Calling all queers (and everyone;) to the theatre! Check this piece out ya'll!!!

Robert Gill Theatre (214 College Street, 3rd Floor)
July 09 02:30 PM, July 10 06:45 PM
, July 11 04:00 PM, July 12 02:45 PM, July 14 07:00 PM

3. RARE

Written by Judith Thompson

Nine people with Down syndrome collaborated with director Judith Thompson to express their own personal stories of love, loss, frustration, liberation and triumph is this beautiful piece that will have you laughing, crying and cheering throughout. A powerful   show this is a true celebration of the human spirit told in poetry, dance and song. If you are capable of getting a ticket (this is a super HOT show at the Fringe this year) I urge you to do so! Only a few shows left so if you want tickets book in advance or arrive very early.

Venue 1 – Tarragon Mainspace (30 Bridgman Ave.)

July 09 06:15 PM, July 10 08:45 PM, July 13 07:00 PM, July 14 02:15 PM

4. WITH SOMEBODY WHO LOVES ME (A GAY DANSICAL) 

Conceived by Frank Manzo

You know I wasn't expected to be moved by this piece as I thought it was going to be all juice and flash, but I will tell you that I really felt this one. As a yoga teacher I have become more appreciative of the human body and all its capabilities... and this show is a fucking brilliant celebration in the human body. Not only its form (there is lots of sexiness going on here, and I was sure not complaining) but also the human body's ability to impact, to tell a story and to heal. This show is packed full of buoyant, strong, masculine and feminine dance pieces. Also, it is super fun and charming. 

Factory Theatre, room: Mainspace, 125 Bathurst
Jul 9 at 8:30 pm, Jul 10 at 1:15 pm, Jul 11 at 9:15 pm, Jul 13 at 5:45 pm, Jul 14 at 11:30 pm

Toronto Fringe Festival 2012 Top Picks (so far)...

Alright here we go! The Toronto Fringe Festival kicks off tomorrow! 
The festival provides a vessel for 155 shows to be staged and produced across the city. The festival of theatre magic will be held at 12 venues, 14 site-specific locations, and at the now infamous Fringe Tent. We have always adored the festival and truly believe it to be a powerful source of community building and artistic development.

To celebrate the festival's launch tomorrow we have compiled a list of our top picks so far:

POMME IS FRENCH FOR APPLE
A Comedy in 60 minutes
Paul Watson Productions
Written by: Liza Paul and Bahia Watson


Show Description:
A series of vignettes about women and their most embarrassing and empowering moments. This piece has loads 
of buzz surrounding it and has a lot of critics talkin'.

At Theatre Passe Muraille: Mainspace, 16 Ryerson
Dates and Times: Jul 6 at 11 pm | Jul 8 at 4 pm | Jul 9 at 8:45 pm | Jul 10 at 4:30 pm | Jul 12 at noon | Jul 13 at 6:15 pm | Jul 14 at 1:45 pm

ANNABELLE'S TAILS FROM JAIL
A Comedy/ Play in 60 minutes
A Modern Attitudes Production
By: Morgan Ewen


Show Description:
A woman tries to make the best of her 8-year jail term in this solo comedy. Going by the poster photo this woman Morgan Ewen is EAP city!
At Tarragon Theatre in the ExtraSpace, 30 Bridgman
Dated and Times: Jul 6 at 9:15pm | Jul 7 at 3:30 pm | Jul 8 at 4:45 pm |Jul 11 at 5:45 pm | Jul 12 at 3:30 pm | Jul 13 at 1:45 pm | Jul 15 at 7:30pm

ALL THE WORLD'S A STAGE OF GRIEF

A Comedy, Sketch in 60 minutes

A Town Toast Theatre Company Production

Written by the cast

Show Description: 

The talented cast of ALL THE WORLD'S A STAGE OF GRIEF performs a sketch-comedy show inspired by Shakespeare. Eclectic yet fluid, dark but strangely uplifting, twisted yet touching, the piece it is a celebration of contradiction.

At the Randolph Theatre, 736 Bathurst, Toronto
Dated and Times: Jul 6 at 7 pm | Jul 8 at 3:30 pm | Jul 9 at 10:30 pm | Jul 11 at 1:45 pm | Jul 12 at 9:15 pm | Jul 14 at 2:15 pm | Jul 15 at 5:15 pm

FISHBOWL

A Comedy in 60 minutes 

Produced and Written by Mark Shyzer

Show Description:
Four characters' lives collide in Shyzer's comedic solo show. Mark Shyzer and Evalyn Parry(!) have been working together on the show from its inception and throughout every incarnation of the show - the workshop performance during the Young Creator's Unit, Fishbowl's premiere as part of the Buddies In Bad Times 2009 season, the 2010 North American Fringe Festival tour, and the current 2012 Canadian Fringe tour.

At the Helen Gardiner Phelan Playhouse, 79A St George, Toronto
Dated and Times: Jul 4 at 6:30 pm | Jul 6 at 8:45 pm | Jul 8 at 1:30 pm |Jul 11 at 11 pm | Jul 12 at 7:45 pm | Jul 13 at 1:45 pm | Jul 14 at 3:30 pm

TICK
A Comedy in 75 minutes
A Lallygag Theatre Production
Written by Matthew MacKenzie

Show Description:
A 10-year old and her friends lead a revolution against the ruling adult class in this comedy which stars the delightful Jessica Moss. Laughter and warmth expected in this piece.

At the George Ignatieff Theatre, 15 Devonshire, Toronto
Dates and Times: Jul 5 at 8:15 pm | Jul 8 at 7:30 pm | Jul 9 at 2 pm | Jul 11 at 2:15 pm | Jul 12 at 4 pm | Jul 13 at 8:30 pm | Jul 14 at 5:45 pm

HOW I LOST ONE POUND, THE MUSICAL
A Musical Comedy in 90 minutes
From ToyBox Productions
Written by Lesley Carlberg

Show Description:
This collection of songs and monologues looks at freeing ourselves from the body as measured by the scale.

At Theatre Passe Muraille Mainspace, 16 Ryerson, Toronto
Dates and Times: Jul 5 at 8:15 pm | Jul 6 at 5:15 pm | Jul 8 at noon | Jul 9 at 10:30 pm | Jul 10 at 6:15 pm | Jul 13 at 2:15 pm | Jul 14 at 10:30 pm

THE JUDY MONOLOGUES

A Play in 50 minutes 

From Baby Gumm Productions 

Written by Darren Stewart-Jones

Show Description:

This performance piece is based on recordings Judy Garland made in the 60s for her never-written autobiography. Starring last year's Fringe sensation Michael Hughes!

At the Annex Theatre, 730 Bathurst, Toronto
Dates and Times: Jul 6 at 7 pm | Jul 7 at noon | Jul 9 at 6:45 pm | Jul 11 at 11 pm | Jul 12 at 1:45 pm | Jul 14 at 2:15 pm | Jul 15 at 1:45 pm

THE GRAVITY HOUR 

A Dance piece in 60 minutes
Produced by Kiri Figueiredo Dance
Written by Kiri Figueiredo, Michael Caldwell and Shannon Litzenberger


Show Description:
Three dancers explore the hidden corners of human nature through four physically intense works. 

At the Robert Gill Theatre, 214 College, Toronto
Dates and Times: Jul 6 at 7:30 pm | Jul 7 at 1 pm | Jul 8 at 10:15 pm | Jul 11 at 6:15 pm | Jul 12 at 8:30 pm | Jul 13 at 4 pm | Jul 14 at 3:30 pm

TWO WEIRD LADIES BOMB THE FRINGE

A Comedy, Sketch in 60 minutes

A Two Weird Ladies Production

Written by Laura Salvas and Mandy Sellers

Show Description:

A labyrinth of eccentric sketch comedy spun from reality, insanity, awkwardness and rage. Two Weird Ladies is a sketch comedy duo comprised of Mandy Sellers, who is set to join the cast of The Second City National Touring Company this summer and was nominated for a 2011 Canadian Comedy Award for Best Female Improviser, and Laura Salvas, a 2009 Toronto Standup Comedy Brawl Finalist. The Ladies joined forces in November, 2010

At the Helen Gardiner Phelan Playhouse, 79A St George, Toronto
Dates and Times: Jul 6 at 1:15 pm | Jul 7 at 9:15 pm | Jul 9 at 10:45 pm |Jul 10 at 4:45 pm | Jul 12 at 9:30 pm | Jul 13 at 5:15 pm | Jul 14 at 1:45 pm

WITH SOMEBODY WHO LOVES ME: A GAY DANSICAL 

A Dance/ Musical in 60 minutes 

From Manzo Entertainment Inc. 

Written by Frank Manzo

Show Description:

 A slick, fun (and a little dirty) dance show similar to a musical but without cheesy singing; no tutus or abstract motifs, either. This dansical tells the story of MANNY, a gay man in search of love, and DINA & LYNNE, a lesbian couple that must deal with the harsh reality of job loss and the strain it has on a relationship. 

At the Factory Theatre, room: Mainspace, 125 Bathurst, Toronto
Dates and Times: Jul 6 at 1:15 pm | Jul 7 at 7:30 pm | Jul 9 at 8:30 pm |Jul 10 at 1:15 pm | Jul 11 at 9:15 pm | Jul 13 at 5:45 pm | Jul 14 at 11:30 pm

                                                   
RAW

A Dramatic/Comic Play in 60 minutes
A Ten Foot Pole Theatre Production
Written by Rob Salerno


Show Description:
A relevant and provocative piece. A young artist confronts the man who he believes knowingly gave him HIV in this darkly comic drama.

At the Robert Gill Theatre, 214 College, Toronto
Dates and Times: Jul 6 at 11 pm | Jul 7 at 2:45 pm | Jul 9 at 8:45 pm | Jul 10 at 5 pm | Jul 11 at 11:30 pm | Jul 13 at 5:45 pm | Jul 14 at noon

Beauty and the Beast in Toronto!

It is here! The exhilarating, energetic and enchanting family musical Beauty and the Beast is opening tonight at the beautiful Four Seasons Centre. I saw this musical more than 15 years ago with my Grandmother, and I am so excited to be taking my niece this Thursday to her very first musical experience. Thank you Dancap! For more info or to purchase tickets please click the header!

Preview: West Side Story

As a contrast to the unsettling news from Dancap last week we are excited to announce some good news as Liza and I will be joining Dancap on Wednesday evening for the opening of West Side Story which is premiering uptown at the Toronto Centre for the Arts. 


Show Description: 
More than fifty years ago one musical changed theatre forever. Now it's back, and mesmerizing audiences once again. From the first note to the final breath, WEST SIDE STORY soars as the greatest love story of all time.

Directed by David Saint, using Tony Award-winning librettist Arthur Laurents’ Broadway direction, West Side Story remains as powerful, poignant and timely as ever. The new Broadway cast album of West Side Story recently won the 2010 Grammy Award for Best Musical Show Album. The Bernstein and Sondheim score is considered to be one of Broadway's finest and features such classics of the American musical theatre as "Something's Coming," "Tonight," "America," "I Feel Pretty" and "Somewhere."

The piece runs for 4 weeks so lots of opportunity to see it!

For more info or to purchase tickets please click here!

Acting Up Stage announces 2012/13 Season

Fresh on the heels of a stunningly successful year, Acting Up Stage is thrilled to announce their ninth season featuring two Mainstage productions, the Toronto premiere of a West Coast hit, a Canadian commission, a new performance venue, a prize for emerging artists, and 45 new young-artists in-training.

All of the programs in 2012-2013 explore 'connections': making connections in an isolating online world; losing and rebuilding connections with those we love most; celebrating connections between long-standing collaborators; fostering connections between young artists.

Musical Productions:

Do You Want What I Have Got? A Craigslist Cantata
By Veda Hille and Bill Richardson
Directed by Amiel Gladstone

A hilarious and surprisingly poignant song cycle that sets actual Craigslist ads to music.
February 2-March 3, 2013
Factory Studio Theatre
Co-produced with Factory Theatre

Falsettos
Music and Lyrics by William Finn
Book by William Finn and James Lapine
Directed by Robert McQueen, Music Directed by Reza Jacobs, Choreographed by Tim French

The first major Toronto revival of this Tony Award-winning masterpiece in 18 years, presented in the city's newest arts & cultural centre!
April 23-May 12, 2013
Regent Park Arts & Cultural Centre
Produced in association with Harold Green Jewish Theatre Company

Tapestries: The Music of Carole King and James Taylor
Music Direction, Vocal Arrangements and Orchestrations by Reza Jacobs
Directed and Dramaturged by Elenna Mosoff

Some of Canada's finest musical theatre artists re-conceive this iconic music in an astonishing evening that blurs the lines of folk, cabaret and musical theatre.
November 17-18, 2012
Jane Mallet Theatre



Education & Outreach:

The Syd & Shirley Banks Prize for Emerging Musical Theatre Artists

An inaugural prize that gives two emerging musical theatre artists the opportunity to advance their careers through financial assistance, mentorship and increased exposure.

One Song Glory

The seventh year of our musical theatre training program, nurturing 45 emerging artists aged 13-19; the only local program of its kind, One Song Glory is free of charge for all.

November 10-December 2, 2012.


New Musical Development:

Alexandria
Book and lyrics by Andrew Kushnir
Music by Reza Jacobs
Co-Commissioned by Acting Up Stage Company and The Belfry Theatre

Our first musical commission will receive a reading in Summer 2012 and a workshop in Fall 2012 in preparation for a full production in a future season.

NoteWorthy Phase 1

A new round of NoteWorthy begins in June 2013 with six established composers and playwrights paired in different combinations to explore musical collaborations.

New Musical Development:

Alexandria

Book and lyrics by Andrew Kushnir

Music by Reza Jacobs

Co-Commissioned by Acting Up Stage Company and The Belfry Theatre

Our first musical commission will receive a reading in Summer 2012 and a workshop in Fall 2012 in preparation for a full production in a future season.

NoteWorthy Phase 1

A new round of NoteWorthy begins in June 2013 with six established composers and playwrights paired in different combinations to explore musical collaborations.

Boeing Boeing Opens tomorrow!

Tomorrow is the day! Rogue Theatre Co-op's second production is hitting the stage and we couldn't be more excited. For more info on how to get tickets please click the header and to watch the incredibly endearing promo video please click the video below!!!

BOEING BOEING
by Marc Camoletti
Translated by Beverley Cross & Francis Evans

Common Good Underground Space (837 Dundas Street West)
Opens March 28th, 2012 and runs to April 8th
Performances Tuesday- Sunday at 8pm

Acting Up-Stage Presents The Long and Winding Road

Acting Up-Stage would like to invite you to their third composer series concert.  After the success of Both Sides Now and The Sound of Silence the company presents The Long and Winding Road, featuring the music of John Lennon and Paul McCartney.  Familiar songs like "A Day in the Life," "Imagine," "Blackbird," and Let it Be" will be re-imagined by some of Canada's great musical theatre voices.

The Long and Winding Road features Thom Allison, Jackie Richardson, Michael Therriault, Graham Abbey, Sara Farb, Deborah Hay, Kelly Holiff, Jeff Irving, Amanda LeBlanc, Jeigh Madjus, Eden Richmond, Evan Alexander Smith, Mike Ross and Steve Ross.

With Musical Direction and arrangements by Reza Jacobs
Direction by Elenna Mosoff.

The Long and Winding Road  is a one-night-only event on Sunday April 1st at 7:30 pm.  The show is at the Telus Centre for Performance and Learning, Koerner Hall: 273 Bloor St West.

To purchase tickets call 416.408.0208 or click here.

Globe & Mail: In Toronto-vs-Chicago theatre war, tax credits are the new ammo

Check out this new article from J. Kelly at the Globe and Mail:

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/arts/theatre/in-toronto-vs-chicago-theatre-war-tax-credits-are-the-new-ammo/article2319934/

Preview: A Brimful of Asha

Serving up samosa's, laughs and lots of heart, A Brimful of Asha is exactly the type of show Liza and I have been craving this winter. The world premiere has opened to strong buzz and has all the top critics talking! For tickets please click the header.

Show Description:

Real-life mother and son, Asha and Ravi Jain, share the stage and tell this true (and very Canadian) story of generational and cultural clash. When Ravi takes a trip to India his parents decide it is the perfect time to introduce him to potential brides. Ravi is not sold on the idea of getting married-at least not yet-but Asha fears that time is running out.

Ravi Jain is an award winning actor, director, producer and educator. Ravi and his mother tell their story together, letting us into their personal drama. Select Sunday performances take place at Dish Cooking Studio (390 Dupont Street) and include a cooking class with Asha, the performance, and a shared vegetarian Indian meal.

A Brimful of Asha
By Asha and Ravi Jain
Directed by Ravi Jain
A WHY NOT THEATRE PRODUCTION
WORLD PREMIERE
On now until February 19th
Tarragon Theatre
Toronto