Those of you who have taken classes or who have children in our ACT program will know that the name has bounced back and forth over the years. After a long discussion with our board over which name is the most effective for our children/youth training academy, we've decided to let the kids decide. They, after all, are the ones who would know best what name speaks to the younger generation and would peak the interest of other young performers.
Therefore, we are hosting an "ACT NEW NAME CONTEST".
Until Feb. 15th, we will be accepting suggestions for a new name for our ACT program. From all the entries received, we will choose the top 3-5 and post them on our blog for a vote. We will choose a winner based on the 3 most popular names.
Here are a few things to take into consideration before you send us your suggestion:
1. In order to make it easier on our grant writing process, it helps to make it clear that we are a children/youth oriented program.
2. Our classes focus on craft, as well as having fun. We would like to evolve into a pre-professional training program for kids who want to study theatre in college. Because of this, we consider our training program to be an academy of sorts.
3. It would be help to find a name with an acronym that works, too.
So, with that in mind, start brainstorming and email your ideas to act@slolittletheatre.org.
The authors of the top 3 suggestions will receive one free space in one of our upcoming master classes! We will be offering master classes in the areas of audition techniques, movement and the business of theatre, so keep an eye on our website for more information.
Good luck!!!
Want to know what's going on at the San Luis Obispo Little Theatre? This is the place to come. Get updates about productions, auditions, volunteer information, and theatre on the Central Coast of California. Find us on Facebook, too!
Tuesday, January 29, 2008
Sunday, January 27, 2008
ONLINE TICKETING NOW AVAILABLE!!!
We did it! The new system is up and running. In fact, we've already had our first online sale! So, you can now get tickets to any SLO Little Theatre Show 24/7 on our website.
SLOLT would like to thank Dave at EvenCentrix for making this dream a reality. He has be absolutely amazing to work with and we wouldn't have gotten it up this quick without him. Thanks, Dave!
As we adjust to the new system, there may be a few bumps along the way. We appreciate our patron's patience and understanding and hope you enjoy the convenience of online ticketing!
SLOLT would like to thank Dave at EvenCentrix for making this dream a reality. He has be absolutely amazing to work with and we wouldn't have gotten it up this quick without him. Thanks, Dave!
As we adjust to the new system, there may be a few bumps along the way. We appreciate our patron's patience and understanding and hope you enjoy the convenience of online ticketing!
Thursday, January 24, 2008
Meet "Worse Than Murder" playwright, Lou Shaw!!!
On Friday, February 8 at 8:00 pm, Reader’s Theatre of the SLO Little Theatre will present a staged reading of Lou Shaw’s play, Worse than Murder.
The play revisits the events surrounding 1951 trial of Ethel and Julius Rosenberg, who were found guilty of and executed for passing information on the American nuclear bomb to the Soviet Union. In this play the controversial case is relived through the eyes of Rosenberg’s two now-adult sons. It is a story of love, family, espionage, betrayal, politics and a government over-reaching its boundaries.
The playwright Lou Shaw is an award-winning TV film writer, producer and the co-creator of “Quincy”. Shaw produced “McCloud,” “The Fall Guy” in addition to developing “Beyond Westworld.” He has scripted over 200 film and television scripts for shows that include among others, “Columbo”, “All in the Family”, “Mission Impossible”, “Ironside”, “Mannix”,and “I Love Lucy”. In 1978 he won an Edgar Allen Poe Edgar award for one of his teleplays for “Quincy M.E.” Shaw has also written a novel, Honor Thy Son.
Shaw, who spent years researching the Rosenberg case, will host a question and answer session following the reading.
Information regarding the “Rosenberg Fund for Children” will be available. The fund, developed by Robby Meeropol, youngest son of the Rosenbergs, is a non profit organization that provides educational and emotional assistance to children whose parents have been targeted for their progressive activities.
The play revisits the events surrounding 1951 trial of Ethel and Julius Rosenberg, who were found guilty of and executed for passing information on the American nuclear bomb to the Soviet Union. In this play the controversial case is relived through the eyes of Rosenberg’s two now-adult sons. It is a story of love, family, espionage, betrayal, politics and a government over-reaching its boundaries.
The playwright Lou Shaw is an award-winning TV film writer, producer and the co-creator of “Quincy”. Shaw produced “McCloud,” “The Fall Guy” in addition to developing “Beyond Westworld.” He has scripted over 200 film and television scripts for shows that include among others, “Columbo”, “All in the Family”, “Mission Impossible”, “Ironside”, “Mannix”,and “I Love Lucy”. In 1978 he won an Edgar Allen Poe Edgar award for one of his teleplays for “Quincy M.E.” Shaw has also written a novel, Honor Thy Son.
Shaw, who spent years researching the Rosenberg case, will host a question and answer session following the reading.
Information regarding the “Rosenberg Fund for Children” will be available. The fund, developed by Robby Meeropol, youngest son of the Rosenbergs, is a non profit organization that provides educational and emotional assistance to children whose parents have been targeted for their progressive activities.
Wednesday, January 23, 2008
The Trials and Tribulations of Online Ticketing
Some of you may be asking yourself "so where IS this online ticketing system they keep talking about anyway??"
Well, I can tell you in all honesty that it does exist and is in the process of being tested. Part of the delay is due to the success of Lend Me a Tenor (which we are EXTREMELY happy about!). Between this show and presales for "What'd I say, A Musical Tribute to Ray Charles" we can barely find time to get the new system tested.
We do hope to have the system up and running by the end of the week so you can all buy your tickets from the comfort of your own home. Yvonne, our box office manager, has been working overtime to take reservations for upcoming shows and can barely keep up. If you call the box office and land in the voice mail system, please be assured that we aren't ignoring you. We are with another customer and will return your call as soon as possible in the order received.
Thank you so much for your patience and patronage. We will give you more information as the ticketing system goes live!
Well, I can tell you in all honesty that it does exist and is in the process of being tested. Part of the delay is due to the success of Lend Me a Tenor (which we are EXTREMELY happy about!). Between this show and presales for "What'd I say, A Musical Tribute to Ray Charles" we can barely find time to get the new system tested.
We do hope to have the system up and running by the end of the week so you can all buy your tickets from the comfort of your own home. Yvonne, our box office manager, has been working overtime to take reservations for upcoming shows and can barely keep up. If you call the box office and land in the voice mail system, please be assured that we aren't ignoring you. We are with another customer and will return your call as soon as possible in the order received.
Thank you so much for your patience and patronage. We will give you more information as the ticketing system goes live!
Sunday, January 20, 2008
Adult Acting Classes
For those of you looking for an adult acting class, SLO Little Theatre is proud to welcome back veteran professional actor/director, Bill McLaughlin.
PRO ACTING TECHNIQUES WORKSHOPS
Sundays, January 27 - March 16, 2008
from 4.30 - 6.30 p.m. at the theatre.
Classes will involve:
No more than 15 students will be accepted.
Class fee: $175
For more information call 773-4647 between 10 a.m. and 12 p.m.
PRO ACTING TECHNIQUES WORKSHOPS
Sundays, January 27 - March 16, 2008
from 4.30 - 6.30 p.m. at the theatre.
Classes will involve:
- How to listen
- Basing your performance on reaction
- How to break down a scene
- How to work with directors
- How to prepare a strong audition
- The rehearsal process and research
- How to make dynamic choices
No more than 15 students will be accepted.
Class fee: $175
For more information call 773-4647 between 10 a.m. and 12 p.m.
Lend Me a Tenor Review from the Ticket
For those of you who might have missed Joan Crowder's review of Lend Me a Tenor in the Ticket, (http://www.sanluisobispo.com/ticket/story/248756.html) here it is for you to read at your leisure.
Stage: 2 tenors, lots of laughs
Little Theatre’s production of ‘Lend Me a Tenor’ straddles the line between drama and farce
By Joan Crowder
“Lend Me a Tenor” is a quintessential farce, complete with slamming doors, mistaken identities, double entendres and hilarious situations. Gailee Walker obviously appreciates the genre and directs the San Luis Obispo Little Theatre cast to create an enthusiastic pie-in-the- face entertainment. Ken Ludwig’s play is laced with clever lines and comic moments.
It’s a funny, if unlikely, story. It’s 1934 and famed Italian tenor Tito Merelli is to be the guest of the Cleveland Opera Co. The producer, Saunders, his daughter, Maggie, and his assistant, Max, are eagerly awaiting him. But when Tito and his wife finally arrive, they are arguing, and Tito’s wife leaves in a huff. Tito is bereft and takes a “fatal” overdose of phenobarbital. Leaving him for dead in the apartment, Saunders and Max, an aspiring singer, decide the show must go on. Since the opera is “Othello,” with black face makeup and an elaborate costume, they decide Max can pass.
The story is a stretch but the cast is excellent. Daniel Freeman has the most dramatic role as the producer. As events spin out of control so does he, and Freeman endows him with comic nervous tics as he nears hysteria.
As Max, Gregory Gorrindo starts out shy and wimpy as he courts pretty young Maggie, but gains self-confidence as he impersonates the opera star. Gorrindo gives the stereotypical character some depth, and he has a fine voice.
Al Curtice is Tito, and he gets plenty of laughs as he misunderstands language, misinterprets conversations and emotes over losing his wife. Ali Peters is cute as Maggie, sweet but airheaded as she falls for the opera star (whoever he is). Nancy Green plays the dowager director of the opera’s board. She’s perfect for the role and looks terrific in a slinky silver lamé evening gown.
Tito’s wife is played by Maya Addison, and she has the Italian accent and high-strung personality down pat. Kathryn Taylor is Diana, the sexy soprano, and her conversation with Tito about getting a break in the opera world is a crack-up as he thinks she’s talking about sex and prostitution. Daniel Salas shows talent beyond his years as the 13-year -old plays the pesky bellhop who is also trying to get a moment with Tito.
The set is a creative solution to the logistics of going in and out of doors, and an “imaginary” wall allows the audience to see into two different “rooms” at once. Director Walker, John Battalino and Eugene Wells designed the set. Stephen Tosh created the musical accompaniment, and Gayle Pierce is responsible for the women’s elegant costumes. Ruth Fleming, director of the Cambria Chorale, is vocal coach, and several members of the cast are chorale members and have been seen in musical productions in the pines and throughout the region.
In lesser hands, farce is a style that can easily become corny, if not painful. But this production does it with just the right balance between drama and slapstick, giving the characters enough personality to make it work.
Photo by Donn Miyahara - Touch of Grace Photography
Stage: 2 tenors, lots of laughs
Little Theatre’s production of ‘Lend Me a Tenor’ straddles the line between drama and farce
By Joan Crowder
“Lend Me a Tenor” is a quintessential farce, complete with slamming doors, mistaken identities, double entendres and hilarious situations. Gailee Walker obviously appreciates the genre and directs the San Luis Obispo Little Theatre cast to create an enthusiastic pie-in-the- face entertainment. Ken Ludwig’s play is laced with clever lines and comic moments.
It’s a funny, if unlikely, story. It’s 1934 and famed Italian tenor Tito Merelli is to be the guest of the Cleveland Opera Co. The producer, Saunders, his daughter, Maggie, and his assistant, Max, are eagerly awaiting him. But when Tito and his wife finally arrive, they are arguing, and Tito’s wife leaves in a huff. Tito is bereft and takes a “fatal” overdose of phenobarbital. Leaving him for dead in the apartment, Saunders and Max, an aspiring singer, decide the show must go on. Since the opera is “Othello,” with black face makeup and an elaborate costume, they decide Max can pass.
The story is a stretch but the cast is excellent. Daniel Freeman has the most dramatic role as the producer. As events spin out of control so does he, and Freeman endows him with comic nervous tics as he nears hysteria.
As Max, Gregory Gorrindo starts out shy and wimpy as he courts pretty young Maggie, but gains self-confidence as he impersonates the opera star. Gorrindo gives the stereotypical character some depth, and he has a fine voice.
Al Curtice is Tito, and he gets plenty of laughs as he misunderstands language, misinterprets conversations and emotes over losing his wife. Ali Peters is cute as Maggie, sweet but airheaded as she falls for the opera star (whoever he is). Nancy Green plays the dowager director of the opera’s board. She’s perfect for the role and looks terrific in a slinky silver lamé evening gown.
Tito’s wife is played by Maya Addison, and she has the Italian accent and high-strung personality down pat. Kathryn Taylor is Diana, the sexy soprano, and her conversation with Tito about getting a break in the opera world is a crack-up as he thinks she’s talking about sex and prostitution. Daniel Salas shows talent beyond his years as the 13-year -old plays the pesky bellhop who is also trying to get a moment with Tito.
The set is a creative solution to the logistics of going in and out of doors, and an “imaginary” wall allows the audience to see into two different “rooms” at once. Director Walker, John Battalino and Eugene Wells designed the set. Stephen Tosh created the musical accompaniment, and Gayle Pierce is responsible for the women’s elegant costumes. Ruth Fleming, director of the Cambria Chorale, is vocal coach, and several members of the cast are chorale members and have been seen in musical productions in the pines and throughout the region.
In lesser hands, farce is a style that can easily become corny, if not painful. But this production does it with just the right balance between drama and slapstick, giving the characters enough personality to make it work.
LEND ME A TENOR ADDED PERFORMANCE!
Due to the high volume of ticket sales for our current production of "Lend Me a Tenor" we are adding a Thursday evening performance on January 31, 2008. For tickets call 786-2440.
Kelrick Production's "Annie"
I just got back from taking my girls to the Sunday matinee of "Annie". What a fun production. We saw a lot of familiar faces, reminding me that the Central Coast theatre scene really is one big family. :-) I was especially impressed how they utilized the small space. Hats off to Eric and the entire cast and crew!
We enjoyed this production very much. I encourage all of you looking for a family activity on the weekend to take your kids to see this production. For more info call 543-PLAY.
We enjoyed this production very much. I encourage all of you looking for a family activity on the weekend to take your kids to see this production. For more info call 543-PLAY.
Tuesday, January 15, 2008
M. Butterfly Auditions Tonight and Tomorrow!
WE ARE CASTING FOR THE FOLLOWING ROLES on Tues. Jan 15 and Wed. Jan 16 at 6.30 p.m. in the Theatre
Still needed:
Song Liling - Beautiful, seductive Asian woman, 20 - 40. Must be played by a man.
Helga - Married to Rene, 30's.
M. Toulon/Man #1/Judge - Distinguished man in his 50's - 60's.
Rene Gallimard - 40 - 65. Rene is an "everyman." Someone you would pass on the street. He is someone whom a girl might say, "let's be friends." He can be easlily seduced.
Still needed:
Song Liling - Beautiful, seductive Asian woman, 20 - 40. Must be played by a man.
Helga - Married to Rene, 30's.
M. Toulon/Man #1/Judge - Distinguished man in his 50's - 60's.
Rene Gallimard - 40 - 65. Rene is an "everyman." Someone you would pass on the street. He is someone whom a girl might say, "let's be friends." He can be easlily seduced.
MEET A.C.T. TEACHER - ZACH JOHNSON!!
Mr. Zach will be teaching the choreography for the musical classes, as well as choreographing My Fair Lady at the SLO Little Theatre this season.
SLOLT: Can you tell us what can be expected in your class(es)?
A basic understanding of choreography, how to learn a routine, history of the show, and fun!
SLOLT: What is your philosophy on children/youth theatre training?
I believe that fun and showmanship wins out over technical training. Kids who enjoy themselves theatre go on to love it later in life.
SLOLT: Can you tell us one of your favorite moments of your career so far?
I was performing in the Criterion Theatre in London and I walked out the front door to find myself in the center of Picidilly Circus on Londons West End.
SLOLT: What’s your most embarrassing moment on stage?
I was dancing in South Pacific in a small theatre, not unlike SLOLT, and there was a move where I was to run up the wall and backflip off. As I hit the wall I continued into the framing of the set and found myself half off stage and half on. It was crazy.
SLOLT: What advice to you have for young thespians?
What I find most important is that performers have fun. If you aren't enjoying what you are doing, the audience sure isn't enjoying it either.
SLOLT: Can you tell us what can be expected in your class(es)?
A basic understanding of choreography, how to learn a routine, history of the show, and fun!
SLOLT: What is your philosophy on children/youth theatre training?
I believe that fun and showmanship wins out over technical training. Kids who enjoy themselves theatre go on to love it later in life.
SLOLT: Can you tell us one of your favorite moments of your career so far?
I was performing in the Criterion Theatre in London and I walked out the front door to find myself in the center of Picidilly Circus on Londons West End.
SLOLT: What’s your most embarrassing moment on stage?
I was dancing in South Pacific in a small theatre, not unlike SLOLT, and there was a move where I was to run up the wall and backflip off. As I hit the wall I continued into the framing of the set and found myself half off stage and half on. It was crazy.
SLOLT: What advice to you have for young thespians?
What I find most important is that performers have fun. If you aren't enjoying what you are doing, the audience sure isn't enjoying it either.
Saturday, January 12, 2008
Sucessful Opening Night of Lend Me a Tenor!
LEND ME A TENOR OPENING NIGHT!!!
Photo by Donn Miyahara - Touch of Grace Photography
If you weren't at the SLO Little Theatre for opening night of Lend Me a Tenor, you missed a wonderful performance. The house was full, the actors were on fire and the audience roared with laughter.
Make sure you don't miss this production. It's an evening you'll want to enjoy again and again!
Lend Me a Tenor runs until February 3, 2008. Show times are Friday & Saturday evening at 8 p.m. and Saturday & Sunday afternoons at 2 p.m. For more information see our website at http://www.slolittletheatre.org/ or call the box office at 786-2440.
For those of you who have seen the show, please feel free to post a comment and let us know what you thought!
MEET A.C.T. TEACHER - KATIE MACK-MONTENEGRO!!
Ms. Katie is going to teach the Stage Management portion of our new Technical Inisghts class. Hear what she has to say about Stage Management and theatre in general.
SLOLT: Can you tell us what can be expected in your class(es)?
I hope that my classes will be fun and educational at the same time. Stage Managing is really exciting, for the right person. It takes a lot of discipline and multi-tasking, as well someone who is patient, good with people, and able to make quick decisions. I hope that my students will learn the balance between organizational side of things and the creative side. A stage manager really is lucky to be allowed to be involved in all aspects of the theatrical process meeting with all departments and it is such a great joy to see it all come together in the end. My students will learn so much about how a production runs from start to finish - all the inside tricks and secrets!
SLOLT: What is your philosophy on children/youth theatre training?
I feel that it is very important to get children involved in the arts at a young age. Music, theatre, and dance have been things that have always remained constants in my life - aspects that have taught be discipline, teamwork, focus, given me self-esteem and fun. In all the craziness that comes with growing up, the arts were the one thing that I could do where I felt comfortable and like "me." I was proud of all the time I would put into classes and learning lines and music and choreography, and then to share it with an audience was the cherry on top. To share that experience with others is such a blessing for me. And I truly believe that starting children out at a young age with something that they enjoy and can be proud of, like the theatre, is something that can only enhance other areas of their lives. Yes, theatre is fun and we play games and sing, dance, and dress up in fun costumes - but there is a lot of work that goes into getting there. The discipline and dedication it takes to be involved in a production is a big accomplishment at any age that one should be very proud of.
SLOLT: Can you tell us one of your favorite moments of your career so far?
That is an easy one. Opening night of NO BOYS ALLOWED! a play that I wrote and directed. I had spent a year of my life reading, researching, writing, designing, and directing this piece. When the house lights went down and those first stage lights started to come up, there was just a feeling of happiness and accomplishment that flowed through my whole body. I had done it. The play literally came to me in a dream and I woke up determined to make it happen, and in less then a year I had it on stage. It was an amazing night.
SLOLT: What’s your most embarrassing moment on stage?
This one is a little harder. Looking back I on certain performances there are things I wish I had worked harder on or had made stronger decisions about, but (knock on wood) I have never really had anything really embarrassing happen while I was on stage in the middle of a show. I am still young - so there is plenty of time for all of that!
SLOLT: What advice to you have for young thespians?
Here are a few rules and lessons I have learned in my 20+ years in the theatre - things that I never, ever forget:
Have fun! Being involved in the theatre is a major committment of time and self, and if you don't enjoy it then it's not worth it. You come first!
ALWAYS BE ON TIME! In the theatre, being on time means being early. On time is late and late is unacceptable. A rehearsal can't start without all people present. Don't hold up the team!
Always be friendly and respectful with the people you work with. Theatre is a collaborative artform and no one person could do a show with out the other people's support. A prop master, spot light operator, and actor are equally as valuable to a production.
SLOLT: Can you tell us what can be expected in your class(es)?
I hope that my classes will be fun and educational at the same time. Stage Managing is really exciting, for the right person. It takes a lot of discipline and multi-tasking, as well someone who is patient, good with people, and able to make quick decisions. I hope that my students will learn the balance between organizational side of things and the creative side. A stage manager really is lucky to be allowed to be involved in all aspects of the theatrical process meeting with all departments and it is such a great joy to see it all come together in the end. My students will learn so much about how a production runs from start to finish - all the inside tricks and secrets!
SLOLT: What is your philosophy on children/youth theatre training?
I feel that it is very important to get children involved in the arts at a young age. Music, theatre, and dance have been things that have always remained constants in my life - aspects that have taught be discipline, teamwork, focus, given me self-esteem and fun. In all the craziness that comes with growing up, the arts were the one thing that I could do where I felt comfortable and like "me." I was proud of all the time I would put into classes and learning lines and music and choreography, and then to share it with an audience was the cherry on top. To share that experience with others is such a blessing for me. And I truly believe that starting children out at a young age with something that they enjoy and can be proud of, like the theatre, is something that can only enhance other areas of their lives. Yes, theatre is fun and we play games and sing, dance, and dress up in fun costumes - but there is a lot of work that goes into getting there. The discipline and dedication it takes to be involved in a production is a big accomplishment at any age that one should be very proud of.
SLOLT: Can you tell us one of your favorite moments of your career so far?
That is an easy one. Opening night of NO BOYS ALLOWED! a play that I wrote and directed. I had spent a year of my life reading, researching, writing, designing, and directing this piece. When the house lights went down and those first stage lights started to come up, there was just a feeling of happiness and accomplishment that flowed through my whole body. I had done it. The play literally came to me in a dream and I woke up determined to make it happen, and in less then a year I had it on stage. It was an amazing night.
SLOLT: What’s your most embarrassing moment on stage?
This one is a little harder. Looking back I on certain performances there are things I wish I had worked harder on or had made stronger decisions about, but (knock on wood) I have never really had anything really embarrassing happen while I was on stage in the middle of a show. I am still young - so there is plenty of time for all of that!
SLOLT: What advice to you have for young thespians?
Here are a few rules and lessons I have learned in my 20+ years in the theatre - things that I never, ever forget:
Have fun! Being involved in the theatre is a major committment of time and self, and if you don't enjoy it then it's not worth it. You come first!
ALWAYS BE ON TIME! In the theatre, being on time means being early. On time is late and late is unacceptable. A rehearsal can't start without all people present. Don't hold up the team!
Always be friendly and respectful with the people you work with. Theatre is a collaborative artform and no one person could do a show with out the other people's support. A prop master, spot light operator, and actor are equally as valuable to a production.
Wednesday, January 9, 2008
MEET A.C.T. TEACHER - JOHN BATTALINO!
Mr. John is teaching the lighting design portion of our new Technical Insights Class. Here's what Mr. John has to say!
SLOLT: Can you tell us what to expect during your portion of the Technical Theatre Insights class?
A hands-on interactive understanding of electricity, theater lamps, and practicals as they are used in making a lighting design for a show.
This will be accomplished using the existing SLOLT grid,fixtures, and starport computer generated cueing program. At the end of this class the student will be able to design,hang, aim, focus, and load cues for any show... with the SLOLT computer.
SLOLT: What is your philosophy on children/youth theatre training?
The experience of exposure to ART in any capacity is exquisitely vital to the growth and the expansion of the human soul, and that soul's connection to Divine Source Energy.
SOLT: Can you tell us one of your favorite moments of your career so far?
The lifetime achievement award from the SLOLT.
SLOLT: What advice to you have for young artists?
As ee cummings said it best i will remind them:
to be yourself in a world which is working day and night to make you like everyone else is the hardest battle to fight AND NEVER STOP FIGHTING IT!
SLOLT: Can you tell us what to expect during your portion of the Technical Theatre Insights class?
A hands-on interactive understanding of electricity, theater lamps, and practicals as they are used in making a lighting design for a show.
This will be accomplished using the existing SLOLT grid,fixtures, and starport computer generated cueing program. At the end of this class the student will be able to design,hang, aim, focus, and load cues for any show... with the SLOLT computer.
SLOLT: What is your philosophy on children/youth theatre training?
The experience of exposure to ART in any capacity is exquisitely vital to the growth and the expansion of the human soul, and that soul's connection to Divine Source Energy.
SOLT: Can you tell us one of your favorite moments of your career so far?
The lifetime achievement award from the SLOLT.
SLOLT: What advice to you have for young artists?
As ee cummings said it best i will remind them:
to be yourself in a world which is working day and night to make you like everyone else is the hardest battle to fight AND NEVER STOP FIGHTING IT!
Tuesday, January 8, 2008
MEET A.C.T. TEACHER - HEIDI ENSSLIN!
Miss Heidi will be teaching the scenic design portion of our Technical Insights class this session. This is a brand new class for kids in grades 9-12 as well as any technically inclined adults. We will be covering scenic design, lighting design and stage management.
One of the things Miss Heidi is planning on doing with her students during her portion of the course is paint faux textures in our newly renovated dressing room!
So.....heeeeeeere's Miss Heidi!
SLOLT: Miss Heidi, can you tell us what can be expected in your class?
Expect to paint. We'll be mixing paint and applying faux finishes.
SLOLT: What is your philosophy on children/youth theatre training?
They will use something that I taught them, someday, maybe not for years, but they will remember.
SOLT: Can you tell us one of your favorite moments of your career so far?
An opera singer took a bow with a prop I made.
SLOLT: What’s your most embarrassing moment on stage?
I was in the middle of a quick change when I remembered I had to go back on stage-- without my mustache!
SLOLT: What advice to you have for young thespians?
No acting please. Be original, sincere. You are a thousand times more interesting than acting. And Study your Lines!
For an idea of what a talented scenic artist Miss Heidi truly is, take a look at a few sets/props she's designed in the past.
MEET A.C.T. TEACHER - RACHEL HOCKETT!
For those of you who do not already know our amazing ACT teachers, I thought I'd ask them a few questions and post the answers throughout the week for you all to see.
Our first teacher is Rachel Hockett. Miss Rachel is offering a number of classes this session: Theatre Fun, Theatre Exploration, Acting I, and Musical Theatre. Miss Rachel will also be directing our big musical this season, "My Fair Lady."
SLOLT: Hi Rachel. Thanks for taking the time to answer our questions. Question #1...Can you tell us what can be expected in your class(es)?
My goal with the young actors I work with is to encourage their imaginations and creativity, to foster their sense of play and enthusiasm for theatre, and to begin to help them develop the same tools that all actors need for truthful performances--using games, sensory memory, observation exercises, and the rudiments of character development. Above all, I hope my students will take greater self-possession and confidence into the world, whether they ever pursue a life in the theatre or not. Oh, and that they will have fun!
SLOLT: What is your philosophy on children/youth theatre training?
I think instilling in them respect for their fellow actors, tools for being good audience members, and a love for all things theatrical will create a foundation on which to begin the serious work of becoming an actor.
SLOLT: Can you tell us one of your favorite moments of your career so far?
One of the most astounding experiences I ever had happened during the run of my production of Annie Get Your Gun last season at the Little Theatre. We used to have the cast warm up before each performance by running through "I've Got the Sun in the Morning and the Moon at Night," an enthusiastic song-and-dance number that involved the entire ensemble. Before one Friday night performance I had my camera and happened to capture a shot of the cast at the ultimate moment in the song--all arms outstretched and faces split wide in smile. I captured with one shot the unalloyed joy and excitement on the faces of every member of our company. That photo will always symbolize for me the way that doing a show can bring together people of all ages and dispositions to create something magical together.
SLOLT: What’s your most embarrassing moment on stage?
This happened not to me but to an actor in a production of Edward Albee's The American Dream, which I directed as a student at Yale. The student who was playing Daddy had a moment where he sat decisively in an armchair on the line, "What did I say? What did I just say?" One night, as he said the line and sat, he toppled, armchair and all, over the back of the platform we had created for a stage in the college dining hall, completely out of sight from the audience. A moment of horrified silence ensued as the audience wondered if Jim had been hurt, or worse, falling backwards like that. And then, amidst a lot of clatter and scrabbling, he hoisted the armchair back onto the stage, jumped back onstage himself, sat down decisively, and said, "What did I say? What did I just say?" as if he had never missed a beat. Well, I laughed so hard, I almost fell off my own chair, and continued to laugh intermittently throughout the rest of the show. Afterwards Jim said to me, "Hockett, I might have kept a straight face if it hadn't been for your caterwauling in the back of the house. Thanks a lot!"
SLOLT: What advice do you have for young thespians?
I tell young people to go to as many auditions as they can find, and to treat auditions as a chance to practice and have fun. I also advise them to take classes. Our county offers an abundance of opportunities to participate in shows, but not very much chance to study. As we all know, a person would not be invited to join a symphony orchestra without having studied music and an instrument for many years. Actors who are serious about pursuing a career in the theatre should have the same respect for their craft that any other performing artist must have in order to grow and succeed.
Our first teacher is Rachel Hockett. Miss Rachel is offering a number of classes this session: Theatre Fun, Theatre Exploration, Acting I, and Musical Theatre. Miss Rachel will also be directing our big musical this season, "My Fair Lady."
SLOLT: Hi Rachel. Thanks for taking the time to answer our questions. Question #1...Can you tell us what can be expected in your class(es)?
My goal with the young actors I work with is to encourage their imaginations and creativity, to foster their sense of play and enthusiasm for theatre, and to begin to help them develop the same tools that all actors need for truthful performances--using games, sensory memory, observation exercises, and the rudiments of character development. Above all, I hope my students will take greater self-possession and confidence into the world, whether they ever pursue a life in the theatre or not. Oh, and that they will have fun!
SLOLT: What is your philosophy on children/youth theatre training?
I think instilling in them respect for their fellow actors, tools for being good audience members, and a love for all things theatrical will create a foundation on which to begin the serious work of becoming an actor.
SLOLT: Can you tell us one of your favorite moments of your career so far?
One of the most astounding experiences I ever had happened during the run of my production of Annie Get Your Gun last season at the Little Theatre. We used to have the cast warm up before each performance by running through "I've Got the Sun in the Morning and the Moon at Night," an enthusiastic song-and-dance number that involved the entire ensemble. Before one Friday night performance I had my camera and happened to capture a shot of the cast at the ultimate moment in the song--all arms outstretched and faces split wide in smile. I captured with one shot the unalloyed joy and excitement on the faces of every member of our company. That photo will always symbolize for me the way that doing a show can bring together people of all ages and dispositions to create something magical together.
SLOLT: What’s your most embarrassing moment on stage?
This happened not to me but to an actor in a production of Edward Albee's The American Dream, which I directed as a student at Yale. The student who was playing Daddy had a moment where he sat decisively in an armchair on the line, "What did I say? What did I just say?" One night, as he said the line and sat, he toppled, armchair and all, over the back of the platform we had created for a stage in the college dining hall, completely out of sight from the audience. A moment of horrified silence ensued as the audience wondered if Jim had been hurt, or worse, falling backwards like that. And then, amidst a lot of clatter and scrabbling, he hoisted the armchair back onto the stage, jumped back onstage himself, sat down decisively, and said, "What did I say? What did I just say?" as if he had never missed a beat. Well, I laughed so hard, I almost fell off my own chair, and continued to laugh intermittently throughout the rest of the show. Afterwards Jim said to me, "Hockett, I might have kept a straight face if it hadn't been for your caterwauling in the back of the house. Thanks a lot!"
SLOLT: What advice do you have for young thespians?
I tell young people to go to as many auditions as they can find, and to treat auditions as a chance to practice and have fun. I also advise them to take classes. Our county offers an abundance of opportunities to participate in shows, but not very much chance to study. As we all know, a person would not be invited to join a symphony orchestra without having studied music and an instrument for many years. Actors who are serious about pursuing a career in the theatre should have the same respect for their craft that any other performing artist must have in order to grow and succeed.
Monday, January 7, 2008
SLOLT's Lend Me a Tenor and Kelrick's Annie open this weekend!
For all you comedy and musical lovers out there, you'll want to put these dates on your calendar!You can come see opening night of Lend Me a Tenor on Friday night and hit Annie the next day.
Support our local theatres! Reserve tickets today!
LEND ME A TENOR:
786-2440 or slolittletheatre.org
ANNIE :
543-PLAY or kelrikproductions.com
Sunday, January 6, 2008
SLOLT Volunteer, Shauna Juarez, invents and launches new product!
Please help support fellow SLOLT volunteer, Shauna Juarez! She's spent a number of hours helping SLOLT sort through costumes, so we'd like to thank her by getting the word out about her new product. She's invented a new product for your blue tooth.
Please check out her website at http://www.talksoc.com/901.html.
Anyone recognize the model? ;-)
TALK SOC
Please check out her website at http://www.talksoc.com/901.html.
Anyone recognize the model? ;-)
TALK SOC
We designed this product to solve a huge comfort and convenience issue. We found wearing a Cellular Bluetooth Device with a traditional earhook very uncomfortable, especially when you add eyewear, either sunglasses or prescription. The earhooks that come stock with most Bluetooths tend to flop around, while a TalkSoc keeps the device snug against your ear. Many Bluetooth wearers have found that these earhooks do not accommodate smaller size ears. The TalkSoc is a perfect one-size-fits-all solution.
Friday, January 4, 2008
NOONTIME BROWN BAG CONCERT PRESENTS "A TOUCH OF SAN LUIS OBISPO LITTLE THEATER"
If anyone has time today at noon, come by the Wilson Hall, at the corner of Marsh and Morro in San Luis Obispo and catch our SLO Little Theatre promo. We'll be featuring SLOLT performers: Karen Kahn, Natalia Berryman, Donna Sellars (together in a duet with current E.D., Wendy-Marie Foerster), Meredith Green, Lauren Romero and Ethan Scott, as well as Mathias Foerster, guest performer coming to us straight from German Broadway. We'll be performing songs from Elvis, Chess, East of the Sun and West of the Moon, Mamma Mia! and more.
Hope to see you there!
Hope to see you there!
Tuesday, January 1, 2008
Happy New Year!
SLOLT would like to wish you all the best in 2008! We've got lots going on around here, so be sure to stop by.
Lend Me a Tenor opens on Friday, Jan. 11th at 8 p.m. This is the perfect show for those of you who love to laugh. This show will run until February 3, 2008. Tickets are selling fast, so don't miss out!
Tickets for our Legend FUNdraiser series, "What I Say? A tribute to Ray Charles" has already begun to sell out on some martini nights, so be sure to call and reserve your tickets before it's too late! This show opens on Feb. 22, 2008 and plays until March 23, 2008.
We are in the midst of some backstage renovations which we hope will please all our volunteers. The green room and dressing rooms are almost done and then we'll move on to the kitchen. We've got lots to do and could use as much help as we can get. If you feel like helping out a couple hours (and honestly, even an hour would be a great help) painting, sorting or laying down the new floors, please call Katie at 781-3889 x11. We are working as much as we can before Jan. 5th, so Lend Me a Tenor can get into the space for tech week. We'd really be happy to see you! Thanks!
Another date to mark on your calendar is Friday, Feb. 8th - our next Reader's Theatre production, "Worse than Murder". Delilah Shank directs this story of love, family, espionage, betrayal, politics and a government over-reaching its boundaries.
In the early 1950’s Joseph McCarthy and the threat of Communism was America’s ‘war on terror’. Although Russia had been an Ally during World War II, the race to develop a bomb and keep the secret of this nuclear weapon in the exclusive hands of the U.S. was the number one priority. Julius and Ethel Rosenberg were the two Americans, who were accused, tried and executed for passing this information on to the Soviets. It was described as a crime "worse than murder." In this play the controversial case is relived through the eyes of Rosenberg’s two now-adult sons.
In addition, our new ACT classes start on Monday, Jan. 14, 2008. We've already begun with registration, so call soon if you'd like to take a class. You can come by and pick up a brochure or go to the ACT page on our website at www.slolittletheatre.org and download a PDF version of the brochure. We're offering new classes, new teachers, and lots of fun!
Have a healthy and happy New Year!
Lend Me a Tenor opens on Friday, Jan. 11th at 8 p.m. This is the perfect show for those of you who love to laugh. This show will run until February 3, 2008. Tickets are selling fast, so don't miss out!
Tickets for our Legend FUNdraiser series, "What I Say? A tribute to Ray Charles" has already begun to sell out on some martini nights, so be sure to call and reserve your tickets before it's too late! This show opens on Feb. 22, 2008 and plays until March 23, 2008.
We are in the midst of some backstage renovations which we hope will please all our volunteers. The green room and dressing rooms are almost done and then we'll move on to the kitchen. We've got lots to do and could use as much help as we can get. If you feel like helping out a couple hours (and honestly, even an hour would be a great help) painting, sorting or laying down the new floors, please call Katie at 781-3889 x11. We are working as much as we can before Jan. 5th, so Lend Me a Tenor can get into the space for tech week. We'd really be happy to see you! Thanks!
Another date to mark on your calendar is Friday, Feb. 8th - our next Reader's Theatre production, "Worse than Murder". Delilah Shank directs this story of love, family, espionage, betrayal, politics and a government over-reaching its boundaries.
In the early 1950’s Joseph McCarthy and the threat of Communism was America’s ‘war on terror’. Although Russia had been an Ally during World War II, the race to develop a bomb and keep the secret of this nuclear weapon in the exclusive hands of the U.S. was the number one priority. Julius and Ethel Rosenberg were the two Americans, who were accused, tried and executed for passing this information on to the Soviets. It was described as a crime "worse than murder." In this play the controversial case is relived through the eyes of Rosenberg’s two now-adult sons.
In addition, our new ACT classes start on Monday, Jan. 14, 2008. We've already begun with registration, so call soon if you'd like to take a class. You can come by and pick up a brochure or go to the ACT page on our website at www.slolittletheatre.org and download a PDF version of the brochure. We're offering new classes, new teachers, and lots of fun!
Have a healthy and happy New Year!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)