Over the River and Through the Woods

Though two shows in a few months does not a stampede make, Joe Dipietro has been a prominent name in Richmond this year. “I Love You, Your’re Perfect, Now Change” ran for a healthy long time down at the Mill and now “OTR&TTW” opens up at Hanover Tavern. There’s an interesting interview with the playwright at TheaterMania if you are interested. A few things that I’m using to set my expectations appropriately about this show: it was written before “I Love You…” (back in 1994); with it’s older characters (two sets of grandparents), it’s clearly targeted at an older crowd; and the families are specifically Italian meaning that some thick accents and broad comedy can be expected. The cast looks good though, so I still have high hopes.

I’m curious what ever happened to Dipietro’s “Memphis” that was getting some try-outs a couple of years ago. Did he kick that to the curb so he could focus on “All Shook Up,” a high-concept musical (all Elvis songs) that just seemed like a bad idea to me. Though the New York Times said that, compared to other so-called ‘juke box’ musicals, ASU “actually rates as slicker and more skillful than most,” the show was generally damned by similarly faint praise. For instance, the NYT review went on to say “Were it staged in a pint-size theater with cardboard scenery and a campy young cast, "All Shook Up" might be a moderate hoot. But inflated to the proportions demanded by a glamour barn like the Palace, it becomes a mind-numbing holler.”

“All Shook Up” is currently touring nationwide, though nowhere really close to Richmond. A show that might be worth a trip out of town though is the regional tour of “Doubt,” which will feature Cherry Jones in the cast. That tour is coming to DC, Baltimore, and Charlotte, NC. I’m thinking I’ll be heading north to check it out come springtime.

Double Up

With this week’s edition, Style throws a third theater reviewer into the mix, the lovely and talented Shannon O’Neill. Her review of “Mme. Bonnard’s Bath” and my review of “Forever Plaid” can be found in the issue on newsstands now.

Also, be sure to pick up next week’s Style that will feature a theater-related cover story. Is your curiosity peaked?

Christmas with the Crawfords

If you take a look at the program for this production (the program download feature on the RTP website is pretty neat), you'll see it is positively swarming with TheatreVCU students. This could be pretty cool -- new blood, fresh perspectives, young energy -- or it could be a recipe for something not-so-cool. I'll hold off on any judgement until I see for myself.

And I must add that I have trouble thinking of Joan Crawford and Triangle Players together without a vision of Robert Throckmorton sneaking in. Where for art thou, Robert?

You Read It Here First?

I just got the schedule for Barksdale’s Hanover Tavern Shows for next year. Here’s the lineup:

Smoke on the Mountain: Feb. 23 – Apr. 29
The Odd Couple: May 18 – Aug. 5
Deathtrap: Sept. 7 – Oct. 21
Dames at Sea: Nov. 16 – Jan 20, 2008

My initial impressions: a) excited about "Smoke." I haven’t seen a production of it since the Mill’s triumphant production years ago (yes, I’m biased!), 2) wary of "The Odd Couple." My recollection is that this is not a play that has aged so well. The recent Broadway production with Broderick and Lane did not get very favorable reviews, if I remember correctly. III) Think both "Deathtrap" and "Dames" could be great, totally depending on the casts. I don’t have a particular affection for either of the scripts but the right people involved – like with most shows – can make for some excellent fun.

Forever Plaid

My biggest fear with this revival of “Forever Plaid” was that I wouldn’t be able to get the performances of the previous cast out of my head. And so, in my mind, the biggest success of this latest production is the ability of each of the lead actors to overcome those memories. Sure, there were a couple of times that I thought back fondly to Larry Cook’s singular Smudge, particularly in the “stage patter” scene with the 45s. And Brian Vaughn has a cuddly vibe about him that was always very endearing. But that is to take nothing away from Andy Nagraj and Brett Ambler who are both excellent. Particularly where it counts – vocally – this cast is just as robust as any “Plaid” you may have seen in the past (the woman sitting two seats away from me had seen it 6 times previously!) Even the occasional nostalgic pang for the “Plaids” of the past could keep me from appreciating the considerable talents of the current crew. Good work, gentlemen!

Clearly, Ms. Haubenstock at the T-D was fond of your performances as well. Here’s hoping for full houses for you all through the holidays!

More "Medea"

I was happy that the T-D did a story on “Medea” as well as Style because they were able to go into a little bit more depth about the production and Mary Vreeland, the star. Of course, I would have preferred being able to highlight the things that Ms. Vreeland and Ms. Davies told me but still, some interesting tidbits got in. One funny detail – I interviewed Ms. Davies and Ms. Vreeland in the same office where the picture for the T-D was taken and the director, interpreter, star and interviewer (based on where Ms. Davies is looking) were in the exact same configuration. OK, maybe just funny to me…

I won't get a chance to see the production but I did run into a friend who left the show at intermission. Not exactly an endorsement. But please go see it yourself and let me know what you think.

I’m adding a link to Andrew Hamm’s blog below in the “No People Like Show People” section. Based on what I’ve read, Mr. Hamm writes at length about many interesting topics, not just theater. I’ve enjoyed reading his take on the political scene over these past weeks; not necessarily agreed with his take, but enjoyed reading it just the same. He also gets a lot more comments than I do so is a more enjoyable and provocative writer, has more friends than I do, or most likely, both. My impression is that a debate between Mr. Hamm and Mr. Wichmann would prove verrrrry interesting...

Gifts

I was doing a search on Google having to do with Othello and found this posting on the “Get Out There, Richmond” blog. This post is like one of those Christmas presents that somehow gets lost underneath the tree and you don’t find it until you’re taking the tree down. While I’m sorry Ms. Jones found my review “choppy and hard to follow,” I’m glad that it inspired her to think and write more about both the review and the play. I welcome spirited debate of all kinds and I pretty much assume as many people will disagree with me as agree with me.

In his comment, the director Andrew Hamm, largely captured my sentiments (and was way too nicely complimentary to me). I’d only add two things:

1) There’s a bit of a damned-if-you-do, damned-if-you-don’t situation when it comes to mentioning race in some contexts. For instance, Richmond Shakespeare had Foster Solomon, a black man, playing Hamlet several years back. In my review, I didn’t mention his race at all, calling him “tall, bald and impassioned” but never calling him African-American. Why? Because I didn’t think it mattered in terms of either the production or his performance. A couple of weeks ago, Amy Beigelsen wrote a review of “Steel Magnolias” where she mentions race explicitly. Why? Because race matters in that production; for instance, it prompted some changes to the script to make the cultural references more appropriate. In both of these cases, I think the reviewers did the right thing.

2) In my review, I said the director did not call undue attention to the play’s racial overtones. Something NOT done is hard to describe, so let me do the reverse to illustrate what I mean. In Rick St. Peter’s production of “Taming of the Shrew” at the Barksdale several years ago, Rick blocked one of the fights between Kate and Petruchio as a boxing match, complete with a ring and gloves. That was calling heaps of attention to the play’s “battle of the sexes” overtones.

Finally, one last point (or maybe more exactly, plea for leniency), when you read any review, mine or anybody else’s, remember the writer usually has a relatively tiny amount of space (300 to 500 words) to capture plot, overall impression of the production, specifics on individual performances, and technical merits. For some perspective on how little that is, this post up to right here is about 400 words. Not much space.

If you happen to be planning to go to Las Vegas or Los Angeles in the next couple of days, you could consider trying out for the new reality TV show looking for the leads for “Grease.” Who knows? You could be the next Carrie Underwood! Meaning that, at the next Tony Awards, maybe you’ll get dissed by someone like Patti LuPone when you win best actress the way Faith Hill dissed Carrie.

In case you ever wonder

I expect that actors and directors – like the majority of other adult humans – occasionally get despondent, wondering whether they are doing the right thing with their lives or whether what they’re doing makes any difference in the world or whether anyone really appreciates the hard work and long hours they devote to their craft. Well, let me tell you a little story.

My boss asked me for a recommendation; he was looking to take his 7th grade daughter to a play. She is taking her first drama class and was encouraged to go see a professional production since she had never seen one before. (This last bit is of course a little astonishing to me given that my kids were generally IN shows before their first birthday, let alone attending them…) One of the recommendations I gave was CAT’s “The Importance of Being Earnest.” I was a little hesitant because, as I remember it, the play has some pretty sophisticated humor in it amongst the silliness, and also over the years I have seen the occasional marginal production at CAT.

Well, apparently, his daughter was enchanted by the play and sat rapt in attention throughout, laughing frequently. Now she is totally psyched about theater and, just today, my boss came and asked for yet another recommendation (watch out, Plaids!) Anyway, I guess my point is that, even when you are toiling away in a show and you are deep into the run and the house isn’t very big and you frankly would rather be at home sipping hot chocolate, you might consider that your audience might include an impressionable youngster experiencing her first show. And your performance may make the difference between that youngster becoming a new and excited theater lover or just another teenage videogame slacker.

And thanks, by the way, all you good folks at CAT for helping me gain points with the boss. I appreciate it.

My preview piece on “Medea” is up on the Style website. For your enjoyment…

K-Fed voted out of office

Well, the marriage amendment passed, thereby officially writing prejudice into our state constitution. I’m wondering how long it will take before people realize what a mistake this was. Maybe not for decades. Who knows, maybe never.

As a Webb supporter, I’m psyched to see that it is looking like he will pull out a victory, though there probably won’t be any certainty to it for weeks or months even.

But in a piece of election news that I found both sublime and ridiculous, I was amused to read that Britney has filed for divorce from K-Fed. Looks like the Brit-ster was voting for a change on election day just like the rest of America.

Vote...please

It does make a difference. If you need any more inspiration than the issues the candidates are talking about, ask yourself this question: who do you want holding the purse strings when it comes to public funding for the arts? Now off to the touch screens with you!

...and again

Darn! I knew I was forgetting something. The "Avow" reading was last night at the Firehouse. I was in line at Starbucks this morning, leafing through last week's Brick and it smacked me right in the forehead. The nice invitations from Jacquie O. to come see it had put it on my radar screen, from which it quickly fell off in the face of press deadline yesterday, trying to get to bed early so I could get up early and vote, and a new episode of "Heroes" (I'm sorry, I'm a geek. What can I say...)

Bravo to 'Brick' by the way for pretty consistently including theater in its coverage. And when I was out trying to find Brick's website, I came across this site for another Brick magazine that is pretty fascinating as well. Just what we all need, another fascinating way to lose a couple of hours of sleep!

Falling down on the job again

Once again, a show has slipped through my fingers. HATTheatre is putting on “100 Years of Broadway” out there on the west end, featuring Tony Williams and Julie Fulcher fresh from their successful stint backing Debra Wagoner in her Barksdale Cabaret act. According to Vickie, the show’s selling out so that’s a good thing. If you want to catch it, it’s running this upcoming weekend as well.

I also screwed up by insinuating that Scott Wichman would be playing just one character in “Mme. Bonnard’s Bath.” As pointed out in Ms. Haubenstock’s not-too-enthusiastic review, Scott plays five characters, relative child’s play compared to the 14 thousand or so he did in “I Am My Own Wife.”

Last week, I was able to squeeze in an interview with Heather Davies and Mary Vreeland, director and star respectively, of “Medea” which starts at TheatreVCU this Thursday. It was one of those interviews that makes this theater writing gig worthwhile as both women were extremely intelligent and engaging and knowledgeable and just plain nice, too. We talked for more than an hour, even though the finished article will only be 300 words long. I easily could have written an 800-word lead story on them, they had so many good things to say. It was also one of those interviews that makes me glad that I married such a lovely and talented woman years ago. Otherwise, I would currently be struggling with a school-boy crush on Ms. Davies which would be bad for at least two reasons: 1) school-boy crushes are much less dignified when you are over 40 and 2) she is undoubtedly flying back to England within a week or two. Ms. Davies reminded me both in resemblance and general demeanor very much of Kate Winslet, who would be my supreme school-boy crush, if of course I wasn’t over 40 and above all that. So instead of staring into space and writing “Heather” with hearts instead of the “e”s all over my English composition notebook, perhaps I’ll buy my lovely wife some flowers on the way home from work today…

Congrats

...and a quick shout out to Lisa Kotula for the successful launch of "Richmond Marquee." I got my issue in the mail yesterday and it's a delightful read. Congratulations, Lisa! They've also got a website, check it out!

Lee's Miserables

There’s something surreal to me that instead of seeing “Lee’s Miserables” tonight at Sycamore Rouge – a show that I expect is a bit dark and tragic and gritty – I’ll be seeing a preview of “Forever Plaid,” a show with a decidedly peppier take on death. That’s the way the schedule bounces, I guess. I’m trying hard not to make it into a bigger existential statement about my life and decisions I’ve made (as the song “Always Look on the Bright Side of Life” from “Life of Brian” streams through my head…)

What I would hope with “Miserables” is that Clay MacLeod Chapman, who is an amazing writer, shows growth as a dramatist. As I said in this review of his “Volume of Smoke” at the Firehouse a while back, Clay does individual scenes very well. But connecting them together in a trajectory of some sort and establishing characters whose relationships grow and change is still something I haven’t seen a lot of in his work. Some of his most intriguing characters in his “Pumpkin Pie Show” stories have been outsiders, misfits or otherwise estranged. For someone so good at capturing estrangement, developing connections dramatically seems to have proven a challenge. I say this with the caviat that I haven’t read most of his stories or his novel and with a reiteration that I have found some of his individual scenes, vignettes and images absolutely stunning.

The Secret of Mme. Bonnard's Bath

While I haven't seen this play yet, it makes me think of another topic that might prove interesting for discussion. And that's the point of "the Internets" anyway, isn't it, to prompt discussion?

Nudity. Obviously, this play's going to have some of that. Plays that I've seen that had nudity in them always stick out in my memory. Sometimes because the use of it has been organic and particularly effective (like the Barksdale's "Misfits" about 5 years ago), sometimes because it was jarring and out of place (a play called "Big Love" I saw at the Humana Festival many years ago started out with a woman emerging from a bath tub for no apparent reason). And in one unusual case, it's been because of both.

Maybe about 6 years ago, Triangle Players did a production of "The Judas Kiss," that starts out with a passionate interlude between a couple of servants. The RTP production had Stephanie Kelley playing one of the servants and the scene was blocked so that she stood up in the bed so her bedmate could "pleasure her orally" as one might say. Well, it was an effective way to get an audience's attention, that's for sure, and that scene has stuck in my mind ever since. The only problem was that the rest of the play was a moderately boring talk-fest and never matched the visceral intensity of those first few minutes.

I guess I think that in the best situations, nudity is just a natural aspect of a play, just like it is a natural aspect of life (I've got 4 kids; not many days go by when one of them isn't running around naked at some point...) From what I remember, "Frankie and Johnny in the Clare de Lune" has a couple of scenes like that, where people are naked because it's a situation where they would be naked in real life, you know? I guess Americans are so repressed about the whole nudity thing it's hard to just take it at face value. For instance, remember the big hullabaloo when Nicole Kidman appeared naked in a scene in "The Blue Room" on Broadway?

I don't have a specific point here, just some ramblings. Hope "The Secret" turns out well. I'm looking forward to seeing Scott as just one character for a change, instead of 6 dozen...

And another thing

I was happy to get a "no hard feelings" kind of response from Mr. Schmidt, one of the subjects of my "People Hate Critics" rant (scroll to bottom). I do certainly hope we have a chance to share a laugh (and maybe a beer) someday and talk about "Caesar" and onstage flubs and politics and pals who get your back. I'll buy. Do you know where I can find a good babysitter?

Stirring the pot

Well, it's been great to hear from my fans (or at least my fan – thanks, Lisa!) during this relatively fallow period in my posting. Work (the 9-to-5 thing, not the Style gig that I do solely for all the money, perks and chicks it gets me…) is sucking up all of my time these days. It’s sucking just in general, too, but that’s a longer story.

I hope you caught Ms. Biegelsen’s review of “Steel Magnolias” in today’s Style. There’s a possibility that yet another Style reviewer will be covering “Mme. Bonnard’s Bath.” If all goes well, this town will be positively infected with theater critics!

And while I’m on the subject of the Firehouse, I’d like to throw something out there that might stir the soup a little. The Firehouse has had an on-going relationship with Israel Horovitz for many years now. If I remember right, it was initiated back when Director Bill Patton was doing shows more regularly at there. I’m sure there are many interesting and exciting things that come out of this collaboration. But I also wonder how much it ultimately benefits the Firehouse. Here’s why I wonder that:

--- There are not many people outside of the already somewhat insular world of theater that know who Israel Horovitz is. Even within the theater world, people may not be familiar with “Line” or “The Indian Wants the Bronx” or the other big shows that launched the playwright’s career. So I guess I wonder whether his name is bringing more or different people to the Firehouse. More stuff by younger, hipper writers might be more effective (like Clay MacLoed Chapman’s “Volume of Smoke” which they did a while back).

--- This may just be my impression, but some of the plays by Mr. Horovitz that have been produced by the Firehouse have seemed not quite polished. The last they did, for instance, “Compromise,” had many intriguing elements that might have ultimately gelled into something truly compelling. But, in my mind, it still seemed a work in progress. (I should say that at least two of my friends whose opinions I respect a great deal really enjoyed “Compromise.” So maybe it’s just me…)

--- Lastly, not since “Lebensraum” has one of his shows really grabbed me. And much of the impact of that one was that it was such an interesting idea. The novelty of the premise carried it through some of the rough spots. Nothing since has struck me as particularly good.

I guess my ultimate question is: In a world full of exciting plays and only a limited number of spots on a season schedule, is the Firehouse hampering itself by so closely aligning itself with Mr. Horovitz?

And to be fair, part of this rant may spring from my frustration that there aren’t more places that new and challenging and even bizarre works can be seen in Richmond. I appreciate what Yellow House and RTP have done occasionally, and what Sycamore Rogue looks like it’s trying to do, but I have to say, I still really miss Theatre Gym.

Happy Halloween

Sorry gang; I'm a little overwhelmed with pre-Halloween madness at Camp RVAT so don't have much time to post. It was interesting to note that a whole bunch of productions ended their runs this past weekend. So there's a little bit of a calm before the storm right now as the Firehouse and Sycamore Rogue open shows this weekend and "Plaid" begins previews. Enjoy a breather while you can.

And, in case you missed it, the T-D came out against the marriage amendment. Will wonders ever cease?

Steel Magnolias

For some reason, I’ve noticed a flurry of national coverage of the Broadway scene today. Both Entertainment Weekly and USA Today (here, here and here) have big sections devoted to theater – relative, that is, to their usual coverage which is pretty limited. Don’t understand the timing but it makes for interesting reading just the same.

Living Word puts on Richmond's second production of “Steel Magnolias” this year, this one distinguished by its African-American cast. I won’t be seeing this production but Style is planning on covering it. Another possible reviewer is taking a shot at this production. Stay tuned for the results!

If you didn’t see it back during the winter, here’s an article written by Living Word founder Derome Scott Smith. Makes for an interesting read.

Speaking of reviews, I would have expected a review of “The Importance of Being Earnest” to show up in the T-D today, but didn’t see it. I did see the review of “Aida,” which didn’t say anything that made me want to see this traveling show.

The Importance of Being Earnest

My favorite production of “Earnest” was my first, mostly because it involved the recognition and appreciation of an amazing new talent. This was back in 1999, I think, at a winery way out toward Lake Anne somewhere that used to do outdoor summer production under a tent. Early during that summer, they had done Checkhov’s “The Seagull,” and Erin Thomas was luminous and delicate as Nina. Then they did “Earnest” and I don’t even remember what character Ms. Thomas played (I want to say Lady Bracknell, but that doesn’t seem right) but she was saucy and tart and incredibly funny. Those two roles back-to-back convinced me that she had a singular ability and she’s continued to do great things in town ever since. Lately, her big roles have tended toward the wide-eyed and innocent: Joan of Arc, Pocahontas. I hope she gets another saucy role like the one she had in “Earnest” to highlight the breadth of her talent.

The production that opened at CAT last night has Una Harrison as Lady Bracknell which could be something of a hoot (complete cast and crew listed here). I hope the production is good because I recommended it to my boss (sight unseen – not always a good idea!) and I don’t want to get fired…

I’m enjoying reading the responses/perspectives generated by the reviews I posted, particularly “Caesar.” I am heartened by the impression I’m getting that there are discerning theater patrons out there who think about productions in a critical way. I really believe it is possible to put out “constructive criticism;” the people posting (so far…) have certainly demonstrated that. It’s disheartening for me sometimes when audiences seem impressed by the simple mechanics (i.e., “how do you remember all of those line?”) and don’t think harder about whether an actor, designer or director did his/her job well.

Young and Old

According to the news, Angela Lansbury is heading back to Broadway in a show called “Deuce.” Perhaps the folks at Bifocals should put their name in the queue now for a shot at those rights.

And, the folks at Disney’s High School Musical will be doing a concert tour in a few weeks. I love this show, in part, because my kids love it (even the 6 year old can sing “Get Your Head in the Game”) but also because, in an almost subconscious way, it shines a national spotlight on the importance of theater programs in high school. Sure, it’s all Disney-fied and everything, but will it make more talented kids think about trying out for their OWN high school musicals? Undoubtedly.

Speaking of Disney, if I remember right, Aida opens tonight at the Landmark. Someone tell me if it’s good. The bad buzz it generated on Broadway will keep me far away across town from this show.

Chance encounters

I'm constantly reminded what a small town Richmond is. Like tonight, if you attended the first debate on the Marshall/Newman Amendment at U of R, you would have been able to chat with Jeff Shapiro, political columnist with the Times-Dispatch, whose lovely wife used to work for Theatre IV. You also might have had a chance to rub shoulders with former Vice Presidential candidate, Senator John Edwards. (At least that's what I thought at first. Actually, it was state senator John Edwards at the debate. Oops, my bad!)

Also, a few days after I posted something here about the possibility of running into someone at Ukrop's who I had written a bad review about, I happened to meet Jennie Brown from SPARC at the Carytown Ukrop's. Earlier this fall, I saw Cynde Liffick from Richmond Shakespeare jogging along Monument Avenue, probably only a week or so after seeing Thomas Nowlin (who was RS's "Othello") in the VCU Ukrop's. Last winter, I was pleasantly surprised bumping into Jill Bari Steinberg walking along in Carytown and one day last spring Grant Mudge was walking into Crossroads Coffee when I was walking out. A couple of summers ago, as my kids romped around the playground near the Carillon, I noticed Chris Evans and his lovely wife walking along in the park as well with their little one who I think was only 2 or 3 at the time.

But possibly the most interesting unexpected encounter I had was when I was visiting the offices of Media General probably 5-6 years ago. I was working for a consultant and had come to work on their computer system and walking toward the person's office I was supposed to meet, I happened to pass d.l.hopkins's office. I don't think I knew he was a computer geek like me until then.

Maybe some people feel claustrophobic in a town like this, where everybody seems to know everybody else. Personally, I think it's one of the many charms of Richmond, and one of the many reasons we have never been get ourselves to move away, though we've often thought of doing so.

Speaking of interesting encounters, if you are a big Garrison Keillor fan, he's going to be at the Barter Theater way down in Abingdon, VA, on Nov. 1. A drive down there might be a nice excuse to check out the tail-end of the changing leaves.

I've been enjoying the small bit of discussion that my "People Hate Critics" post seemed to generate; thank you all for your perspectives. I'll have to think up some additional juicy topics that might get some responses. Anyone else have any ideas?

Fall

Have you driven down Monument Ave. lately? It seems like all of a sudden, fall is here. The leaves have erupted into their annual cacophony of color and there’s a crunch underfoot when you walk along the sidewalks. The temperature is still all over the place but I’m loving those mornings that emerge with a bracing chill in the air. Fall is just a yummy time of year.

Speaking of beautiful sights, I caught a sneak peak of the upcoming premiere issue of “Richmond Marquee” (this job does have SOME perks) and it looks smashing. There are profiles of ubiquitous Lighting Designer Lynn Hartman and expatriate Rodney Hobbs, several other interesting articles plus listings of auditions and show openings through December. There’s a website up now too; check it out and be sure and subscribe. The price can’t be beat.

This weekend will see another production by a company that specializes in abbreviated Shakespeare, the Reduced Shakespeare Company’s “Completely Hollywood (abridged)” at U of R’s Jepson Theater. Just as a head’s up for next week, there’ll be a dramatic staged reading of selections from “Nickel and Dimed” at Jepson; it’s a great book worth checking out if you have a chance.

Also, there’s been a fair amount of press about the ComedySportz anniversary. This leads me to a gray area I’m not sure whether I should cover on this blog or not. There’s been plenty of interplay between actors and improvisation in the past; Jeff Clevenger and Jennifer Frank come to mind. I’ve written about stand-up before. And some stuff that is actually theater – the Mystery Dinner Playhouse shows, for instance – really skews more toward improvisational, or at least interactional, comedy. I’ve got to think about this and, if I have a spare minute, maybe I’ll add those folks into the blog in some way.

In the meantime, there’s a new Mystery Dinner Playhouse show opening this weekend called “Fashion to Die For!” Have a great weekend!

Two for the price of one

My reviews of Julius Caesar and Pocahontas are up on the Style Weekly site. Enjoy (and feel free to post rebuttals if you are so inclined!)

I heard news on Q94 (Q94!?!) this morning about the “Sweeney Todd” film that has Johnny Depp slated to play Sweeney. Director Tim Burton’s sweetie, Helena Bonham Carter will play Mrs. Lovett (as confirmed with this story on Broadway.com). What killed me was that, in order to say something that her young hip audience might relate to, the DJ Melissa Chase said something to the effect that you’d recognize the music from Sweeney Todd because it’s been in Looney Tunes cartoons. Oy. Can our pop culture get any dumber?

Day late, Dollar short

Well, dang. I had meant to mention the Bifocals Theater show "Table for Two" this week at the Barksdale. But performances were Monday and tonight. I hope they went well. Just to get a jump on the next production: Bifocals will be doing "The Day Joe Montana Retired" on Nov. 27 & 28. I'll try to be more on the ball about blogging about that one.

Have also been a little frustrated looking into the Broadway possibilities. Got some last row orchestra seats for "A Chorus Line" -- pretty pathetic but what are you going to do. Looked into "Wicked" -- all sold out for the week before Xmas. Oh, that is unless you're willing to pop for the $300 a piece "premium tickets." Excuse me?!?! As if $125/per for "regular" seats isn't enough? It's certainly another reason to be thankful we have so much quality theater right here in town, shows that you can see without taking out a second mortgage...

Taking suggestions

It’s looking like Team T will be able to take a quick trip to NYC around Christmas time, so I’m taking suggestions on what show people think we should see. One night, the girls are probably going to go see “A Chorus Line” but on the second night, we’re hoping to sneak out just Holly and I to see something. I’m intrigued by this show “Spring Awakening” that caught a little buzz in its off-Broadway run and will be opening on Broadway on Nov. 17. But then there’re the shows that have been around for awhile like “The Drowsy Chaperone” or “Spamalot.” I’ve heard Martin Short’s one-man deal is hilarious and of course there’s 3 or 4 off-Broadway shows that sound interesting (“Jewtopia” in particular catches one’s eye), but are they worth spending the only free night in New York to see?

What would you see if you had one night in New York right now?

Were you there?

Man, what a great night on Sunday. A wonderful crowd of people cheered on a great slate of performers at the Commonwealth Coalition Benefit at the Barksdale. I was very proud of my girls who sang “Castle on a Cloud” very sweetly and with only the slightest shakiness at the beginning. It was a very special 45 seconds for me and I think they got a big charge out of it. It’s hard to pick out the highlights from the rest of the night since it was all amazing. Jacquie O and Derek Phipps did the “I Can Live With That” scene from “I Love You, You’re Perfect, etc/” that always makes me tear up. It’s so sweet and funny and they both do such a great job with their characters. I especially liked it that my widowed mom (who was there with another widowed friend) was able to see that scene.

Debra Wagoner was astounding as usual, the singer/songwriter Kim Alexander rocked the house, and modern dance troupe Amaranth was mesmerizing. Scott Wichmann’s scene from “I Am My Own Wife” was particularly poignant. And the boys singing “Were You There?” sounded great on a song that managed to be sweet, funny, and significant all at the same time. It was an enchanting evening and if the energy from that one night could be loosed upon the Commonwealth at large I’m sure it would have the power to convince the un- or misinformed people who still plan on voting in support of the asinine Marshall/Newman Amendment.

Keeping it positive

I could get all ticked off that the Times-Dispatch chose not to list the Commonwealth Coalition benefit in the Weekend section. I'd like to think it has nothing to do with politics and it's some administrative oversight kind of thing. Really, I would.

But I'm ignoring that because there's plenty of stuff to be positive about. For one thing, shows are being extended left and right: "I Am My Own Wife" got pushed out another weekend and "Sordid Lives" added performances. And just when I think I've got at least a vague handle on all of the theaters in town, I see that a group called the Reflections Repertory Company is doing "A Bench in the Sun" starting tonight (the T-D posted an announcement about them...hmmmm....). According to their website, they're doing "Agnes of God" next, which is one of those plays that, with the right people in it, can be just transcendent. And if you are interested in going to a theater that tends to program shows in a more faith-based way, I'd recommend the Jewish Family Theatre at the JCC. They did a great "Anne Frank" a while back and will be starting up with "Crossing Delancey" in a few weeks.

Furthermore, the very nice responses from Mr. Hamm to my "People Hate Critics" rant lifted me out of the doldrums this afternoon. It seems that perhaps we CAN all get along! I really appreciate your further explanation of the moment I described in 'Julius Caesar,' Andrew, and your reassurance that I am not hated. (And nice job with Cassius, BTW, very excellent work!) I'm hoping that it comes across that I think pretty long and hard about saying negative things in a review. Sometimes it seems like there's no avoiding it but, as the song goes, I try to accentuate the positive. And, as I think I've said before, most of the time the on-stage mistakes bring out the real talents of theater pros. I am that much more impressed with them when they are able to work through the flubs and come out the other side with no one the wiser.

And Jacquie, I'm just not telling you when I'm going to see your shows anymore since I seem to be a jinx...

And last but not least, it's fall, it's going to get good and cold this weekend, I'm going to take a break from theater for a couple of days and maybe see a movie this weekend (since there's about three out now that I'm hankering for...), and I'm going to have the chance to share in the joy of people (very talented people) coming together on Sunday to support a good cause. For now, at least, I can't really complain.

Disappearing Act

Blogger seems to have misplace my blog today. Not sure what that's about. Maybe they REALLY hate critics!

Once more for the team

OK, one last plug for the Commonwealth Coalition benefit. Please come. It's this Sunday the 15th and it has a great slate of performers. If you haven't seen it, I've included the list below. And yes, if you look closely, there's a couple of Timberline girls tucked in there among all of the legitimate stars. Will I be nervous on Sunday? Oh my, yes.

AMARANTH
TODD MINNICH
MATT BEYER
KIRK MORTON
STEVE BOSCHEN
JACQUELINE O’CONNOR
TIM BREWSTER
DEREK PHIPPS
ELLIOTT BROMLEY
BRYCE TIMBERLINE
PAUL DEISS
SAGE TIMBERLINE
JANINE FULLER
DEBRA WAGONER
AMY HENDERSON
SCOTT WICHMAN

Please Go To: http://www.votenova.org/ To Pre-Register Your Donation And Reserve A Seat, OR Call (804)330-4566 For Reservations And Make Your Donation At The Theater.

Better late than never?

Here’s my review of “The Constant Wife,” for your consideration.

Also in the better late than never department: I’m sorry to have missed the Arts and Letters Live event on Monday. I’m planning on catching the broadcast on Thanksgiving. It’s pretty exciting to have (at least) two nationally recognized stars in our little town for the weekend (Hilarie Burton and Elliot Yamin, of course).

And I’ve fallen down on the job again, as “Frankenstein Lives!’ has been open a week at the Science Museum and I haven’t mentioned it. I have to admit to some puzzlement about the run of this show; I’m not quite sure why it is closing Oct. 29 just when the fever pitch about Halloween should be highest. Hope I can get the kiddies off to see this before then!

People Hate Critics

People hate critics. I know I do. I hated them before I became one and the situation hasn't changed since. Daniel Neman bugs the crap out of me. I find his overuse of "we" in his reviews annoying as heck, as if either he's assuming that "we" share his perspective (which I usually don't) or he's using the royal we. Danny -- it's YOU that saw the flick, not we.

Anyway, I'm sure that there's people that are annoyed or angered or bored by my reviews (or my blog). Fine by me. Difference of opinion is what makes our democracy strong.

But for you non-critics out there, here's a window into the conundrums critics face. I saw Richmond Shakespeare's "Julius Caesar" last Friday. Generally a very good production (but I'll save the specifics for when my review shows up in Style). I liked the performance of Jeff Schmidt as Mark Antony quite a lot. He's was doing a great job with the funeral speech ("Friends, Romans, countrymen, lend me your ears...") but then, at the very end of the scene, he totally went blank. Like, totally. It was the most complete full-stop flub I think I have ever seen on stage. There was nothing but dead air for a good few seconds. As I remember it, he eventually repeated one of the lines from earlier in the scene and then everyone just exited.

I'm not pointing this out to be mean. I think Mr. Schmidt is a fine actor; he had been doing well, performed nicely during the rest of the show, and overall did an admirable job. But as a critic, what do you do? Do you memorialize that momentary lapse in print in the spirit of giving an honest assessment of the production? Or do you gloss over it to be "nice?" Movie reviewers can be jerks in their assessments because they aren't usually going to see the person they wrote about at Ukrop's the following Friday. But how do you balance giving a hard-working actor the benefit of the doubt with keeping up a semblance of journalistic integrity?

Or how about this: "The True Story of Pocahontas" opened last week also. As Ms. Haubenstock pointed out in her review, the script has some serious problems. She didn't even mention what I thought were the most significant issues: Pocahontas's motivation for saving John Smith isn't explained, and a huge hunk of the show is told in the future tense, which was confusing to me, not to mention the kids of various ages I had along with me. But you also have to admire the fact that they tried to "keep it real" and not do something that totally made Pocahontas something that she wasn't. Do you reward intent? Or damn with faint praise by saying, "well, at least it wasn't something worse."

Q: What would you do?

A: Avoid becoming a critic at all costs, perhaps?

PS: Style could still use someone else to write them reviews. If this entry isn't inspiration enough, I should tell you the pay isn't so great either...

The True Story of Pocahontas

I expected to sit down and ramble on about Pocahontas but then got distracted by this item on the Entertainment Weekly website. The intersection of two of my guilty pleasures – Broadway and American Idol – in one article! How could I resist. If you have the time, you should check out the profile on Constantine Maroulis that is linked to in the Village Voice . It’s a pretty revealing look at the lifestyle of the semi-famous.

I’m always a little bit wary about anything calling itself “The True Story…” of anything. History is a notoriously slippery subject. Pocahontas seems like a historical figure who by default is romanticized. I’ll be intrigued to see how Pete and Julie dealt with this impulse.

This show also makes me think about how the majority of actors I’ve known have at one time or another had a “street theater” type job, like a character at a theme park or dancing/playing in a theme park show or working as an interpreter at a historical park, etc., or even a dancing/singing waiter/waitress. My lovely wife spent some time portraying a Native American – evocative of Pocahontas though it may not have been her explicitly – while working at Busch Gardens many moons ago. While I’ve heard these jobs can be a huge pain, people have also told me they represented some of the best training they’ve ever had. Care to share YOUR experience?

Julius Caesar

My best friend told me today that his 11-year old daughter is memorizing Mark Antony’s speech from ‘Julius Caesar’ for school. Having a daughter that age as well, I can imagine the delivery. Picture someone who just wants to get through the speech as fast as possible and whose ambition is certainly not made of ANY stuff right now, to say nothing of sterner stuff. The result is significant theatrical dissonance, which could almost be funny if overdone, like in a Christopher Guest movie or such. I'm expecting the rendition in the Richmond Shakespeare production will be a bit more rousing.

Also, yesterday was a testament to never knowing where theater is going to pop up in your life. I was reading a book called “Women in Early Imperial China,” because, well, it’s a long story but I just was. And here’s what I came across: “Sociologists have long used role playing to create subtle models of society. According to one theory, individuals in society are akin to actors in a play. Sometimes we carry ourselves as if we were back stage, preparing for a public performance. Other times we are on stage, in view of others, playing out chosen social roles. As social actors, we choose the props, clothing, and makeup that will make our performance appear most believable…In real life as in the theater, the actor and audience influence each other. Actors manipulate the audience, and the audience’s reaction shapes an ongoing performance….To a large degree, we are the sum of the social roles we perform.”

OK, so that’s a lot of sociological theory, but if you followed that, imagine that one of your social roles is being an actor (as it very likely might be if you are reading this). Then, it’s kind of like role-playing within role-playing! And what if the character you are playing is an actor! That’s like sociology to the third power!

And even though this seems like the kind of conversation you have late at night in a college dorm room, I assure you I’m not stoned as I’m writing this…

Indignities

First indignity (mine): After promising the folks at Sycamore Rouge that I would put their events on the blog, I totally let them down with their current show, The Complete Works of Wllm Shkspre, abridged, which has been running for a couple of weeks now. It’s showing tonight and next Sunday through Wednesday (10/8-11). I’m really sorry – I promise to do better in the future.

Second indignity (not mine): the Times-Dispatch review of David Sedaris’s appearance at the Landmark was tucked down below the obituaries in today’s paper. Jacquie O told me that the review of Swift Creek Mill’s “I Love You, etc.” was also placed in this ignominious location. Could the coverage of live performances BE any more invisible?

And in the better late than never department, here’s a link to my piece on Debra’s “The World on a String” and the Starlight Cabaret Series. If you haven’t gone yet, there’s a show this coming Saturday at 11pm – I expect that’s when Debra brings out Arlen’s more risqué material – plus two shows next week. Wouldn’t a trip to the Cabaret be a great end to a long Columbus Day weekend?

The International Scene

So Ashlee Simpson made her big theater debut in ‘Chicago’ last week. The guy who does “Talk Soup” had a wonderful line: whoever was singing her part from backstage did a great job. I haven’t read a true review of her performance yet and don’t really care enough to search too hard for one.

Closer to home, The Times They Are A-Changin' made its debut on Broadway last week as well. Also haven’t read anything from the NYC reviewers but the notices on the Chicago run certainly were positive. I’m hoping to make the yearly sojourn to NYC sometime early next year but am still undecided on whether this will be the big show to see or not.

Leftovers

Did anyone go see the Spalding Gray "Leftover Stories to Tell" show at the Firehouse? It's an interesting idea and a nice tribute and the last-minute (as far as I know) addition of Scott Wichmann to the cast almost propelled me to try and figure some way to get there. In the end, a nephew's birthday celebration won out for me.

You may not notice it but the reviews I'm writing for Style these days are more often around 400 words long versus 500 words in the past. It seems that everyone is cutting back some. Those missing 100 words mean that the review for "The Constant Wife" won't be mentioning some solid supporting performances (e.g., Jill Bari Steinberg, convincing as up-and-coming businesswoman friend to Constance; Andrew Boothby, a welcome dose of energy as socially awkward Mortimer) and some excellent technical work (Sue Griffin's costumes were divine -- where DID she find Bernard's Wimbleton shoes? Got to get me a pair of those!). One hundred words doesn't seem like much but three or four sentences is often the difference between getting a mention and not.

This "Wife" was also the kind of show that makes me wish I had the 1200 words or so that a NYTimes reviewer has. There's much that could be covered with this play -- in terms of the text and in terms of this particular production -- but not much that could be explored succinctly enough to fit into 400 words. Here's a few of the things that WON'T be in my published review:

-- This is a play that takes patience. The first act is a moderately funny drawing room comedy with most of the spunk coming from Mrs. and Martha Culver (great work by Kelly Kennedy and Jen Meharg in this production). Things really start rolling in the second act and but it was only in the third act that I felt fully engaged.

-- I really try not to be too politically-correct, but I was put off by the preponderant man-bashing. Men are called everything from wicked to weak to childish in this play. I don't think I would have minded so much if a) so much of the bashing hadn't happened in the first act which was relatively slow in comparison to the rest of the play, b) it was a little more clever and c) there was even a little less of it -- after the initial point was made (and remade), it just felt like piling on.

-- You come to appreciate the depth of Constance's insight and intelligence. She is truly a remarkable character. But after the show was over, I was struck by the 'what-if' scenario. What if Mortimer hadn't brought the whole situation to a head? Would things have continued on for her and John ad infinitum? The thought that Constance might simply have turned a blind eye for several more years makes her seem less noble.

-- There was something not quite clicking for me in the chemistry between John (Steve Perigard) and Mary-Louise (Laine Satterfield). I enjoyed each of their performances separately – particularly Steve’s growing apoplection in the third act – but there wasn’t much fire or verve or even a sense of sneakiness spurring their scenes together. The way I read the play, Mary-Louise is drawn to John because he’s a bit more dashing, sophisticated and intelligent than her somewhat blunt Mortimer and John is drawn to Mary-Louise because she’s a sweet young thing, a pleasant bauble that amuses him. I left the play not knowing why exactly they had ever been attracted to each other.

-- On some more positive notes, I could have gone on at length about the beautiful set, well-appointed down to the little trees visible through the living room window. And Larry Cook’s performance was a treat, particularly his restraint in the last scene where it would have been easy for more gloat to sneak in.

The only reason I haven’t mentioned Ms. Mamana is because I was able to sneak some praise of her into my 400 words. I thought she did a great job with a part that also required significant restraint. I’ll admit I was on the fence early on in the show but, by the end, I was duly impressed. It was probably the even-handed delivery of the “go to hell” line that won me over for good.

I hope I haven’t given away too much in this rambling bit of blogness. And I hope you check out my (much shorter) review when it shows up in print.

Viva la Brick

Having been alerted to something significant in this week's issue, I picked up a Brick today (no grunting required) and was delighted at the interview with Shon Stacey, director of "Sordid Lives," and the inclusion of Judi Crenshaw's letter. Clearly, "thick as a Brick" does not equate to "deaf as a post" -- the new weekly has heard the call and will apparently be covering both the visual and performance arts. I hadn't heard of Stefanie Fontanez before but I love both her mellifluous name and her breezy reporting style. As well as the insinuation that she had been to Fielden's when it wasn't so quiet...! Kudos to Pete and Brick; I look forward to more.

Oh, also, great piece on Michael Herring, Commonwealth's Attorney, who is a neighbor of mine and a friend of a friend. Theater coverage as well as compelling local reportage?!?! Now you're scaring me, Brick!

I went to see "The Constant Wife" last night and will be posting more extensively on that experience as soon as I finish the review which won't be tonight because the kids are asleep and the wife and I have a date with Season 5 of "Six Feet Under." (One of the great things about blogging is no finicky editor cuts your ridiculously long run-on sentences...) But I ran into Jodi Strickler there who is one of the nicest people on the face of the earth and who is stage managing the show. I think of Jodi whenever I refer to my brood of kids as "chillren" ('Quilters' joke, sorry). Whenever I hear 'show-biz' people dismissed as crazy or egotistical or backstabbing or whatever, I think about all the people I know like Jodi who are just, like, normal and friendly and personable. Frankly, I've met more people in the computer biz who were whack-jobs than in the theater biz. And they couldn't carry a tune, either.

Richmond Marquee

If you are on Robyn’s list, you have already heard about Lisa Kotula’s new project, “Richmond Marquee,” a tabloid-size monthly that she has been working on with admirable commitment and perseverance. This is an ambitious project but one that I hope and expect will be successful. She’s enlisted "the nicest guy on the planet” Joe Inscoe for some help with graphics and many of the local theaters seem to be playing along, so here’s hoping things continue to roll along well.

For those of you who haven’t heard all the details, I’ve included them below. And below that is Lisa’s contact info; if you want to help out, I’m sure Lisa could use assistance.

“Richmond Marquee” will celebrate accomplishments, highlight opportunities, lament losses and showcase news that is specific to the theater community in the form of a monthly publication (with hopes of moving quickly to bi-weekly and eventually weekly). Subscribers will be given the option of receiving time-sensitive e-newsletters between issues (so no one misses an audition). "Richmond Marquee" will provide a forum for collaborations of ideas and submissions of opinions. It will highlight what to see and where to see it; and allot more than a quarter page of space to do so. It will be supported through individual subscriptions and ad sales. The projected accompanying website will provide a page for actors to post headshots and bios.

Included will be:
· A section called “On the Boards” – effectively, the theater calendar of ongoing productions
· A section called “I Hope I Get It” – listings of upcoming auditions submitted by various local theaters, professional and community
· A section called “Lights Up!” – highlights of productions opening soon
· A section called “Footlights and Footnotes” – stories about actors, theaters, local news that directly affects US
· A section called “Cue the Spotlight…” – profiles of various members of the theater community
· Occasionally, an opinion page – letters to and from the editor
· The “Call Board” – individual classified ads
· Space for purchased weekly display ads – theaters, individuals, related businesses

It will not contain theater reviews. It is intended to be a tool for working the local theater scene – one that uplifts the individual parts and celebrates accomplishments, encourages individual ambitions.

Subscription info:
3 mo-$6.00
6 mo - $12.00

Subscriptions for longer than that are not being offered because of the possibility of changing the frequency of the publication. When it changes, the subscription rates will be adjusted. Also, anyone who pre-orders a subscription prior to November 1st (Premiere date), will receive the Premiere Issue in the mail free of charge in addition to their subscription term.

Lisa Kotula
Managing Editor
Richmond Marquee
pnlkotula@aol.om
(804) 272-2688

A Beneficial "Wife"

Well, after much wrangling of schedules, it looks like the folks at the
Firehouse have been able to find a night for a special performance of "I Am
My Own Wife," mostly to accommodate other theater artists who can't make the
regularly scheduled shows. Mr. Wichmann will work his magic on Tuesday, Oct.
10th at 8pm (at the Firehouse, of course) and the proceeds from the
performance will benefit the RAPT Theatre Artists Fund. Tickets for RAPTers
will be $10. If you've been frustrated because you haven't been able to see
Scotty shine, here's your chance!

In other benefit news, I received confirmation a couple of days ago that the
Commonwealth Coalition benefit will indeed be happening on Sunday, October
15th at the Barksdale. Wine and refreshments will be available beginning at
6:30 p.m., followed by a 7:30 curtain time. According to Kimberly Jones
Clark: "The show will feature diverse talents from many facets of arts and
theater in the Richmond community."

The show will feature vignettes from various Richmond-area productions and
will provide an eclectic experience as these artists come together in
support of The Commonwealth Coalition. Just as a reminder: this is the
organization that is working to defeat the Marshall/Newman Amendment or
so-called "marriage amendment." Please plan to come, join in the fun and
support this effort.

“Wife” Full Text and Sycamore Scary Stuff

Well, for some reason my “I Am My Own Wife” review is not on the Style website today, though it is in the magazine (really, honest it is!). For those who only peruse Style online, I’ve included the full text below.

But first, here’s a little announcement on behalf of Sycamore Rouge in Petersburg for all you theatrical folks who really get into the Halloween spirit (for more info, call Jonathan Elliot):

“We're looking for creative individuals with a sense of humor, mirth, and enjoyment of the Halloween spirit to help transform Sycamore Rouge into the ultimate haunted house. If you're ghoulishly talented at fiendishly decorating your own home every October, we invite you to use Sycamore Rouge's twelve thousand square foot facility as your canvas this year! We'll be hosting a brainstorming session at Sycamore Rouge this Sunday, October 1, from 1 to 3 pm. Light refreshments will be served, as we wander the dark corners of the facilities and plan all sorts of fun, spooky, and scary happenings.

The Haunted House will run from October 26-31, and will be available in two versions: "Kiddie"(ooooh! This spaghetti is really BRAINS!!!!) and "Adult"(masked men with chainsaws jumping out from dark corners). We need actors, designers, planners, hosts, builders for both versions--whether you want to be a kooky witch or design the perfect fright, we'd love to have your help!

If interested, please RSVP by responding to this email, or call Jonathan Elliott, Sycamore Rouge managing director, at (804) 957-5707, ext. 104.”

OK, and now here’s the review:

Wonder “Wife”
Portraying 35 characters, Wichmann is a one-man wonder in the Firehouse’s “I Am My Own Wife”
By David Timberline (409 words)

The first time Scott Wichmann changes character in the mesmerizing one-man show “I Am My Own Wife,” now playing at the Firehouse Theatre, the effect is as dramatic as a slap in the face. The remarkable actor does such an astounding job at embodying the aging, fussy, and slightly fey German transvestite Charlotte Von Mahlsdorf that it feels like waking up from a spell when he suddenly transforms into a very masculine American journalist about a dozen minutes into the play. But this is only the first of countless captivating moments as Wichmann goes on to portray 34 additional characters in order to tell the story of Von Mahlsdorf’s complex and seemingly impossible life.

Born Lothar Berfelde in 1928, Von Mahlsdorf discovered her predilection for girl’s clothes as a boy living in Berlin. It was her misfortune to live under two of the most repressive regimes of history, the Nazis and the Communists of East Germany, and yet somehow she survived, all the time pursuing an abiding love for antique furniture, clocks, and phonographs. Her dramatic story includes a stint in a German youth prison, close calls with soldiers during the fall of Berlin, and the clandestine support of the city’s underground gay movement. But how much of it is true? Playwright Doug Wright confronts this question by making himself a character in the show and portraying the creative crisis he faced when aspects of Charlotte’s account seemed to conflict with the facts.

It is breathtaking to watch Wichmann switch between characters, each drawn with impeccable clarity. But Charlotte is his masterpiece. Speaking in a hypnotic sing-songy lilt and armed with a knowing smile that is warm but also a bit sly, the actor makes Von Mahlsdorf empathetic, compelling and maddeningly elusive. Director Morrie Piersol supports Wichmann with occasionally inspired blocking and key lighting and sound effects (lighting design by Michael Mauren, sound by Ryan Corbett and Trey Pollard).

The show is not perfect; the “play about writing a play” conceit is a little too self-conscious and does not quite pay off in terms of dramatic tension. Edwin Slipek Jr.’s scenic design is dominated by the simple beauty of a few pieces of antique furniture but they contrast jarringly with an indistinct, angular backdrop (a map of Berlin, perhaps?) Still, fueled by Wichmann’s bravura performance and capped off by one last treat as you walk out of the theater, this is a production that shouldn’t be missed.

“I Am My Own Wife” runs Thursday – Saturday nights at 8pm, with Sunday matinees at 4pm, through October 7th at the Firehouse Theatre, 1609 W. Broad Street. Tickets are $10-20 and can be purchased by calling 355-2001.

My Hope and Dream

A shout-out to Chris Bopst who was kind enough to post a pro-Brick comment in response to my not-so-pro rant below. I appreciate your insight, Chris, and as I hope I implied clearly enough, I’ve always been fond of Pete’s sense of humor (and yours too! Glad to see you in print again within the pages of Brick.) It’s good to hear that Media General isn’t planning to be a controlling patron, though I’m still a bit wary since, in one somewhat paranoid view, Brick’s ultimate goal would be to dilute (at least) or completely capture (at most) Style’s audience. Since I don’t praise my pals at Style that frequently, I'll take this opportunity to point out that one thing it does better than anyone in town is report on the Times-Dispatch. And, given the recent changes at the T-D, it’s a story that deserves some exposure.

My hope and dream, when I first heard about Brick, was that it might be able to give some coverage (finally) to the college theater scene and some of the more fringey theater stuff that happens here. I (and by extension, Style) can barely cover the mainline companies in town and have basically abandoned even a couple of the second-tiers (sorry, RTP and CAT). My fear with Brick is that it’ll end up covering a lot of the same ground that the T-D and Style (and Entertainment Weekly and a half-dozen other regional and national publications) already have pretty thoroughly shellacked, i.e., movies and TV and music. I hope that Pete can find someone that can cover the theater beat and, while I’m mentioning it, I should say that Style could also use someone to assist in theater coverage. If anyone else out there has some interest, E-mail me and I’ll pass your credentials up the line at the home office.

Oh, and I am still withholding any final judgment on Brick. I’ll still pick it up and read it over and ponder Free Will Astrology, if nothing else. And clearly, I’m not shy about giving it free publicity on my blog (for whatever that's worth!)

The World on a String

Tuesday night Barksdale’s Cabaret series kicks off and finally true fans will have a chance to hear the unique stylings of Julie Fulcher on the drums as she performs some old standards in an intimate setting. For some reason, Barksdale has chosen to highlight the singer associated with this show (a chick named Debra – like she’s ever done anything in this town…). But me, I’m going for the drums.

Of course, if you have read my review of Ms. Wagoner’s CD (scroll to the bottom), you know that I kid because I love. Debra has always been a spectacular vocalist and a personal favorite of mine. The opportunity to hear just her sing for an evening is a supreme treat. And just for the record, Julie is no slouch on the drums either and a pretty darn good singer/actress herself.

There will be a blurb in Style on the Cabaret series but not until next Wednesday, unfortunately. In the meantime, I hope the piece in the T-D helps generate a significant audience for this show. Tell your friends!

Also, since I relish any opportunity I can find to praise my wife in a public forum, here’s an anecdote from ancient history: fourteen years ago (yikes!), Holly and I traveled to Australia on our delayed honeymoon. We did a scuba diving excursion there and, when it was over, a bunch of folks went to an Aussie nightclub that was having a karaoke contest. With a little encouragement of the alcoholic kind, Holly entered and sang “Somewhere Over the Rainbow.” Due mostly to the wildly enthusiastic response of our fellow scuba divers, she ended up winning second place, nearly beating out the local favorite. So, long before Katherine McPhee, Harold Arlen was helping beautiful brunettes come in second place in competitive singing events...

More Media

Amy notes in a comment to Saturday’s post that someone from Brick took pictures at “Sordid Lives;” one can only hope this means there will be some theater coverage in the new weekly. I caught John Porter’s rave on “Sordid Lives” on the radio some time over the weekend. Does anyone know if there’s a schedule to when his reviews are played?

A brief aside appropo of nothing: Part of Mr. Porter’s commentary mentioned last season’s “Southern Baptist Sissies” at RTP. I happened to speak to him a few days after he saw that show and he had many positive things to say about it. Earlier that same day, I spoke to someone else whose opinion I also respect who said the production was “on the level of bad community theater.” Having not seen the show, I didn’t know how to respond to either of them. As much as I love to have an opinion about things, sometimes I’m kind of forced not to.

I have to give a (reluctant) nod to the T-D for all of its theater coverage on Sunday, with a front-pager on Scott/”IAMOW”, an announcement (a bit late perhaps) of the Richmond Shakespeare indoor season/name change, and even a little piece on Debra’s Cabaret show at the Barksdale. Maybe they ARE trying?

Ms. Haubenstock’s review of “The Constant Wife” was apparently somewhere in the Sunday paper, but I had more luck finding it online than in print. It is an intriguing review: it’s certainly positive but it stops short of a rave. It also has at least one interesting turn of phrase: “larded with witticisms.” Never heard that one before.

And finally, a minor vent: one of the frustrations of writing for a weekly is having a review wrapped up a full 10 days before it gets into print. By the time my review of “IAMOW” shows up on Wednesday, just about everyone (except Brick) will have weighed in on Scott’s performance, making me old news. Oh, the sad life of theater reviewer…

Direction

Just have a second but wanted to correct myself: I got the word this morning that Bruce Miller took over from Steve at the helm of "The Constant Wife" so I was off the mark with that "director directing himself" comment. It's hard to keep up with things around here! Thanks for keeping me honest, Jackie.

Also, picked up this past week's Brick. Its direction hasn't changed: still no theater. Fewer chuckles, as well.

Happy holidays and happy Fall (my favorite season)!

The Constant Wife

Sorry to be late getting this post um, you know, posted. Ironically enough, I'm late at least in part because my (not-so-constant) wife is out of town on a birthday trip with our eldest, leaving me to hold down the fort. Fort has not floated away yet but the weekend is young.

I've heard this play compared to an Aaron Sorkin TV show, which is also a bit ironic given my recent mention of Studio 60 on Sunset Strip. Which, because it's late and my mind wanders, reminds me that there was an episode of Picket Fences that I saw years ago while I was traveling -- it was totally out of context because I never really watched the show -- that featured just four of the show's characters and it was so tightly plotted and the dialogue was so great and it all took place in one house in two rooms that I thought it would have made a killer play. But I never found out what the name of the specific episode was so I guess that's one piece of potential theater lost for the ages.

Anyway, did you know that W. Somerset Maugham wrote more than 20 plays between 1907 and 1933, and at one point had four running simultaneously in London? But that he turned away from theater after the 1933 flop Sheppey, and although he lived until 1965, he never lifted his pen as a playwright again. What a shame.

This play ran on Broadway last year and from what I remember, got fair to pretty good reviews. I'm not sure why it only ran for three months. The Richmond production is getting a somewhat last minute addition of Steve Perigard to the cast. I have never witnessed the process of a director directing himself as an actor. It seems to be the kind of thing that could make you schizophrenic. Or something. Is it really 1am? Man, gotta go to bed. Night, night, Richmond.

Brick

For the past several days I’ve been meaning to mention ‘Brick,’ or, as I like to call it: ‘Punchline Plus’ – the plus of course being the corporate backing of Media General and all of the money that implies. If you hadn’t heard, this magazine is the new “alternative” weekly that hit the streets a couple of weeks ago. My reaction to it so far has varied between tepid appreciation and distinct disappointment.

Positives:
- Cartoons. I love Tom Tomorrow and Ted Rall, in particular.
- Snarky side comments. Editor-in-chief/Punchline vet Peter Humes has a nice way with the funny aside and will stick one just about anywhere. Tucked at the bottom of last week’s banner: “Once you are finished reading Brick, you may choose to create funny hats or origami swans.”
- Interesting interviews. In last week’s edition, I enjoyed the interview with VCU History Prof. Emilie Raymond on Charton Heston, a fave of mine since “Bowling for Columbine.”

Negatives:
- Bashing of Style (and all other weeklies). I know I write for Style but even so, I am very well aware of some of Style’s limitations and problems. So I welcome a new free weekly as much as the next guy. But Brick printing a letter that fawns all over the new mag (after only one issue) and says, “finally a REAL weekly publication for Richmond” is a slam against all sorts of people, not to mention people who could actually end up big Brick fans. Is it really necessary to “go negative” so early in the game?
- Disingenuousness at who they are. “Richmond’s PLUCKY weekly”? How plucky are they going to be with a $900 million corporation behind them?
- No website. Yet? Ever?
- Not quite as funny as they think they are. I laugh out loud at Jon Stewart and The Onion and this particularly hilarious post from Eliza Skinner. I chuckled a couple of times reading through Brick.

And of course, my biggest peeve about Brick is NO THEATER! What’s up with that? Granted, I haven’t seen this week’s issue so maybe this point is already moot, but in the two issues I’ve seen there’s no mention of live theater, no calendar of shows, nada. Instead, we get articles on Zach Branff and “The Wire.” That’s plucky?

Theater is an integral part of this town from Theatre-VCU to Theatre IV’s kid’s shows to Bifocals Theater Company. You aren’t covering Richmond, Brick, if you aren’t covering theater.

The universe at work

Literally within two hours of me putting up my post on the Marriage Amendment (technically, the Marshall/Newman Amendment), I heard word that there is going to be a fundraiser at the Barksdale Theatre in support of the Commmonwealth Coalition on Sunday, October 15th at 7pm (To be clear: this is NOT an event hosted or sponsored by the Barksdale Theatre or Theatre IV; they are simply renting out the space).

This is one of the main organizations fighting the Amendment. PLEASE mark this date on your calendar and plan to come. I think some of the finer details are still being put in place but, from what I've heard already, it's going to be an awesome time in support of a great cause (with several theater-type folks involved). For more info. on the Coalition, you can check out this website.

Sordid Lives

So this is not meant to be a political kind of site. There’re plenty of those around so there’s no need for me to add my rants to the general maelstrom. But I guess all politics (or any of the politics that matters) is personal and this Marriage Amendment thing hits me close to home and has got me pretty peeved. It offends me for two reasons:

1. It has the potential to cause real harm to people I love (or at the very least, cause them additional legal fees or anxiety over how current legal arrangements are set up) and it benefits ABSOLUTELY NO ONE.

2. It deliberately writes prejudice into the Virginia Constitution, which is bad public policy at the least and an affront to American values at the most. I spent several hours over this past summer studying Thomas Jefferson for a paper I had to do for school and, his somewhat compromised stand on slavery notwithstanding, I have to think this is the kind of thing that, beyond causing him to spin in his grave, might compel him to actual rise up from the ground and cause physical injury to several prominent Virginia politicians.

If you care at all about the psychic state of the world, please vote against this amendment and call all of your friends and neighbors and encourage them to vote against it as well. Thank you.

By the way, I don’t really know anything about the play “Sordid Lives” that RTP is opening tonight but I expect it’ll be a a hoot, particularly with folks like Amy Berlin and Jennifer Frank in it. Though it’s a farce, the title got me thinking about how so many people, ranging from ill informed to criminally ignorant, think that homosexuals by default lead sordid lives. Yeah, all of those middle-aged gay mothers and fathers I know are leaving the kids at home to play with Drano while they go cruise the public toilets. Get real.

Reviews, Resources, Reading

OK, I promise that all my posts are not going to be so alliterative.

First, my review of “I Am My Own Wife” will be in Style next Wednesday. Guess they couldn’t squeeze it in by the deadline this week. Sorry about that. Rest assured, I liked it a lot and have already started urging friends, relatives and strangers on the street to go see it. Scott W. has the Times-Dispatch review on his website.

Here’s a mini-review: I thought last night’s premiere episode of Aaron Sorkin’s new TV show, “Studio 60 on Sunset Strip,” was pretty excellent. What’s that got to do with theater? Part of what’s cool about the show is the view into what happens backstage. I think people are always fascinated by what goes on behind the scenes (part of the appeal of the movie “Prairie Home Companion” over the summer); I know I am. I don’t know if the show will remain interesting over the long-haul but the premiere was pretty compelling. There's already a blog about it if you are interested.

I’ve added links in the “All in this together” section to the Virginia Actor’s Forum and to the Richmond VA Theater websites. I’m particularly fond of the RVA Theater's calendar. It’s not all the way complete (Triangle Players?) but I love seeing the shows laid out on a calendar. Well done!

Also, if you want some interesting reading, it’s worth checking out Broadway.com once in a while. I liked the recap of the British reality show that culminated in the selection of a new Maria for London production of "The Sound of Music" as well as the interview with Eric Bogosian. The production of his “subUrbia” (directed by Rick St. Peter) was one of the most bracing and intriguing shows I’ve seen in Richmond.

Coffee, conversation canceled

There has been some facilities-related problem at the Barksdale at Willow Lawn that forces the cancellation of their “Coffee and Conversation” session that was scheduled for tomorrow (Tues., Sept. 19th) at 9am. The wonderful Judi C. apologizes for any inconveniences or disappointments this may cause.

All of the future sessions are planned to go on as scheduled. Judi says there has been upwards of 100 people attending! Gosh, if only there were some interest in theater in this town… (can you feel the sarcasm?)

Unwrap Your Candy

I think some people don’t get “reader’s theater.” I know I didn’t understand it until I was a sophomore in college. One weekend on a whim, some friends of mine and I started reading “Waiting for Godot” aloud together. I can neither confirm not deny any of the circumstances or substances that were involved leading us to take up this activity. Though I had read “Godot” in high school, I hadn’t seen a production and it wasn’t until I heard the words spoken that I realized just how hilarious (and peculiar and intriguing) a show it was. Years later, my lovely wife did a reader’s theater production of “Dancing at Lughnasa” that was downright transcendent.

Which is a roundabout way of saying that “Unwrap Your Candy” at the Firehouse tomorrow night (Tues., Sept. 19 at 7:00pm, admission $5), with its great cast including Jackie Jones, Jacquie O'Connor and Granville Scott, should be an excellent introduction to this format if you haven’t been exposed to it before. And if you have seen, or plan to see “I Am My Own Wife,” it’ll serve as a nice compliment. My former brother-in-arms Mr. Proctor is directing, adding another layer of interest to the show. If you’ve been critiqued by Roy before, go to the show and you can enjoy some time on the other side of the fence. Post YOUR review of him right here!

Gotta have faith

Too many choices tonight. There’s the preview of the third annual Acts of Faith Festival starting at 7pm at Second Pres. downtown on Fifth Street. A good excuse to check out the indoor digs for Richmond Shakespeare as well as find out what interesting theater might be in store for us during the cold winter months. Interestingly enough, American Theatre magazine just happens to have an article called “Articles of Faith” in the latest issue, talking about Christian theater. (Here’s a link to the blurb – for the whole article, you gotta get the print edition.)

I’ll be attending “I Am My Own Wife” but also trying to squeeze in a swing by the Anderson Gallery for the opening of the “Artificial Light” exhibit which also starts at 7pm. Pretty regularly these days the Anderson is coming up with unique installations that capture the imagination of even a visual arts novice like myself. In everything I’ve read about this one, it just sounds really cool.

Y’all have a good weekend!

Mishmash

First off, my review of "I Love You, You're Perfect, Now Change" showed up in this week's Style. It's only a few hundred words but I hope it conveys my enjoyment of the show, which was considerable.

Second off, even though I thought I had scanned everywhere I could scan to find the review of "The Mousetrap" in Sunday's paper (and Saturday's and Monday's), it showed up when I searched the website, I think in the "Area/State" section. Great example of how well the T-D is covering the arts. I had to read between the lines here a little bit, but I don't think Ms. Haubenstock particularly appreciated the production. What do you think?

And third off, I appreciate Joe Pabst's post with a brief recap of the T-D roundtable meeting. I wish I could have been there (girls had a field hockey game). It sounds like it was a bit frustrating. Though they invited the input, they seemed a bit defensive about getting it. I find the comment about a Visual Arts critic to be absolutely confounding. If people don't want to read about it, why have they invited Roy Proctor back at least twice in the past month to write above-the-fold stories about visual art??? Richmond is a nationally recognized visual art center, what with the VMA and VCU's various programs. It's a big part of what's happening here -- isn't that what they are supposed to be reporting on, what's happening?

The comment on selling papers points to the heart of their coverage. If they perceive it doesn't "sell," they aren't going to cover it. Of course, the reality of the burgeoning theater scene here doesn't register on that radar and so I guess they won't be covering that. Duh!

I Am My Own Wife

I read some very interesting background on this play but I can't remember exactly where. What I do remember is that Doug Wright initially just wanted Charlotte to be a sympathetic figure. Her story was so amazing and she seemed so noble. He also became a good friend of hers while researching the story, so at first he really just wanted to lay out the events of her life.

But while he was still early in development, maybe when he was workshopping the play with Moises Kaufman, these maddening inconsistencies kept coming up and Charlotte I guess was not exactly forthcoming with details (whether out of forgetfulness or out of shame or maybe because the accusations against her were false, he never could tell...). So the result is an inspiring but elusive character who is much more intriguing. I gotta say, I can't wait to see Scott dig into this one!

(And PS: if I have any of this wrong, Scott, if you are out there reading, feel free to correct me!)

(And PPS: How did the forum go last night? Anybody willing to post their thoughts?)

More linkability

I have been meaning to add Sycamore Rouge to the “Producers” list for quite some time. Maybe I’ve been avoiding it since reading about the burlesque show they’ve been doing. There’s just something unseemly about a middle-aged guy being TOO interested in burlesque. But they are doing some interesting things down there in Petersburg and I’m looking forward to checking out a show down there soon. I’ll definitely be there for “Lee’s Miserables” if not something sooner.

I’ve also added the first student link to the “Show People” section. It’d be great if it ends up being the first of many. The young and talented Caroline Sumner is a student at VCU focusing on acting and whom you may have seen in “Follies” this past summer at Dogwood Dell. She also has an exciting project in progress that I hope to be able to report more on early next year. Tune into her blog for tidbits of college life. Could make you envious…or could make you thankful you left college behind however many years ago…

Also, on the recommendation of Jackie J., I am adding Blair Underwood to "Expat" section. I haven't checked with him first so I hope he doesn't mind. This is one of the slickest websites I've ever seen. Mr. Underwood's clips reel is incredibly well-produced with a dramatic development all its own, dramatic parts, action parts, and parts where he takes his shirt off. One thing that you won't read about on the site is that he's signed on for a story arc on the TV show, "The New Adventures of Old Christine." Sure seems like Blair is doing Virginia proud.

Go and talk!

Tomorrow is the roundtable at the Richmond Times Dispatch and I encourage anyone who is reading this right now to attend. As you probably know, I write for Style. So by all rights I should just tell you all to kick the T-D to the curb and just read Style, which has superior arts columnists and is simply more fun to read. But the truth is Style -- being an independent weekly -- doesn't have the immediacy, the resources, or the reach the T-D has and it never will.

One of the main reasons I got into the critic thing was because I support the arts, I love theater and I admire the many talented people who devote their lives to entertaining and challenging people through the arts. Those people -- you people -- deserve first rate arts coverage and I think the only way you are going to get it is to let the T-D know how important you think it is. Richmond has great potential -- but it's had great potential for years and yet it still plays second fiddle to the other burgeoning mid-sized cities across the country, your Raleighs and Cincinnatis and even your Louisville/Lexingtons.

The arts are the key to unlocking Richmond's potential. But they have got to get the support from the press to make it happen. The roundtable may be the best way to lobby for that support. Here's the vitals on the roundtable:

Tuesday, September 12th from 7 – 8:30 pm.

The Roundtable will be held at the Times-Dispatch downtown offices, 300 East Franklin Street in Richmond.

Parking is available in the RTD garage.

Back to the Past

Blogging has so many great elements to it, among them the opportunity to “converse” with people about a wide variety of things without having to actually be face-to-face. But a downside is that someone may chime in on a “conversation” that took place a while back and, unless everyone is regularly cycling back to check old entries, no one else may be aware of that person’s contribution.

To rectify that at least a little, I draw your attention to a recent comment by Amy Berlin on a production that took place at Chamberlayne Actors Theatre a couple of months ago. I’m so glad you took the time to comment, Amy, and I hope you will do so again in the future. I had no idea what all went in to “Epic Proportions” and had nothing to judge the production by except the T-D review. I really appreciate that you put a dissenting opinion out there and I encourage anyone else to do the same about a review of any current or past production, whether it’s a T-D review or even one of mine. Though I don’t think I’ve gone as acerbic as Ms. Haubenstock went in that review in a long time. But who knows…I hear that “Aida” is actually pretty bad so maybe I’ll have a chance to sharpen my poison pen when that show comes to town…

The Mousetrap

The big news about Barksdale’s “The Mousetrap” has been the speed with which tickets have sold to this production. The run was extended weeks before the show even opened. It’s a great thing that these shows are drawing so well at Hanover Tavern. It speaks to the ongoing hunger in Richmonders for quality live theater. And hopefully it will help Theatre IV/Barksdale build and sustain itself so that it can continue to expand its offerings. I don’t know if I’m alone in this but I really miss the Theatre Gym series and would love to see that revived.

Soon to be expat?

If you check out Scott Wichmann's site, he talks about him and Jen contemplating moving away (again)...Can't somebody please find some long-running, well-paying gig that would keep these guys in town? Isn't there a furniture maker or grocery store or health care company that needs a regular spokesperson? Little help, people!

Bonus #2 (Turns out not to be...)

Update (09/07/06): What a difference a day makes...I went out and actually picked up a Style and saw that all four theater bits were actually published. They just didn't all make it to the Style website for some reason. Oops -- call me stupid. Just goes to show you should never trust the Internet...that is, except for MY site...except, of course, when I make a mistake...
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If you check out Style Weekly this week (and I heartily suggest you do!), you’ll see that the Fall Arts cover story has three little bits about upcoming theater this fall, written by yours truly.

What you wouldn’t know -- unless you read this blog! -- is that there was actually supposed to be 4 items on theater. The fourth was a blurb that I presume was pulled because of space but also probably skirts just on the edge of propriety. Here it is for your enjoyment:

“Night of the Undead!

An unlikely cultural icon, he disappeared into New York’s East River under mysterious circumstances. Now, two years later – he lives! Just when you thought the world was safe from the bizarre, slice-of-life monologues of Spalding Gray, he emerges to ramble on. In “Leftover Stories to Tell,” a one-night tribute at the Firehouse Theatre (Oct. 1), the suicidal actor/storyteller is reanimated with the blood of celebrity guest performers. Funny, poignant, ribald – these leftovers are guaranteed to haunt you long after you leave the theater.”

A Blog Reader Bonus!

I saw “I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change” at the Mill on Saturday – truly a delightful night of theater. The show is a great mix of sketches that run the gamut from silly to serious. Maybe it’s a sign of my advancing age but, even though the slapstick-like skits were funny, the scenes that mixed in slices of reality worked the best for me. The tentative awkwardness of “The Lasagna Incident” and the more brazen awkwardness of the final funeral home scene were my two favorites.

And what a cast! Simply fantastic. Rather than repeat myself, here’s a special preview for you loyal blog readers of the review which will run in Style sometime, probably next week. As the whole review is less than 300 words, this represents more than one-third of the whole thing:

“Can you explore every aspect of male-female interactions in the course of a two-hour stage musical? Not really, but as demonstrated by Swift Creek Mill Theatre’s “I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change,” you can have a rollicking good time trying. Starting with first date jitters and ending with picking up dates at funeral homes, this show uses every stage in the progression of a relationship as a launching point for sketches that are often hilarious, occasionally poignant and always insightful. Thanks to a winning cast of four accomplished stage vets, this is one of those rare shows that you wish would never end.”

Expat #2

Chris Harcum left Richmond many years ago, but I still remember his awesome one-man show, "Some Kind of Pink Breakfast." I saw it in the performance space above what used to be the Main Street Grill. It was one of those transformative moments in theater for me because it was the first time I saw how one person performing on a somewhat ramshackle stage using little more than their voice, face and body could produce something magical. His "Breakfast" still ranks up there with Scott Wichmann's "Jails, Hospitals, and Hip-Hop" and Jill Bari Steinberg's "The Syringa Tree" as the best one-person shows I've ever seen.

Chris has received some great notices on "Breakfast" since and just performed it at the NYC Fringe Festival. Please send hopes for continued good luck to Chris from Richmond!

Expatriates

I’ve been contemplating this for a while, probably since I read about Foster Solomon and Susan Sanford moving out of town. There are a number of theater folks who grew up in Richmond or started their professional theater careers here and then moved on to other places. I’ve either come across or dredged up the websites of a few of these folks. Maybe it’s just me, but I find it interesting to see what others from here are finding in bigger (and presumably better) towns. (It can’t be just me, because the T-D runs a “where they are now” type piece every once in a while. So maybe it’s just me and an editor at the T-D…)

Anyway, I’m checking with these folks to see if they mind me linking to them. As I get confirmation, I’ll post links in the “Expatriates” section over there on the left. Kicking off this new section is Eliza Skinner, little sister of Tony-nominee Emily Skinner and a very busy actress/singer/writer/improv comedian. I spent many delightful hours in the dark with Eliza – no it’s not what you think! We ran props together for a production of “Quilters” at Theater IV about a billion years ago. She was a hip and precociously funny and sarcastic teenager back then and, if I remember correctly, I was a newlywed. Her website is a hoot and has links to Eliza’s many other activities and involvements. Check it out!

More expats will be popping up as I can get their links up. And if there’s anyone else out there that you know of that you think would be a good link, please let me know.