Nick Jonas to Judge American Idol?

Could the former How to Succeed star be the next judge on "American Idol"? Sources are reporting that Nick Jonas could be following Mariah Carey as the newest judge on the long running competition show. Two spots opened up for the upcoming season after Jennifer Lopez and Steven Tyler both announced their exits within a day of each other. How do you think Jonas would do as a judge? And does that mean his "Smash" days have officially come to a close?

Spotlight On...Risa Sarachan and Christina Jeffs

Name: Risa Sarachan and Christina Jeffs

Hometown: New York and Los Angeles (respectively)

Education: NYU Tisch School of the Arts (where we met!)

Select Credits:
RS: Your Boyfriend May Be Imaginary (Cassandra, The Management); Serious Hammering (Claire, P.S. 122); Boyfriend Scarf (Sonia , Ensemble Studio Theatre); Billy Witch (Jenny, Studio 42)
CJ: I've been out of the theater game recently, but I did make some
cameos on The Onion News Network TV show on IFC, "Jane by Design" on ABC
Family, and "2 Broke Girls" on CBS. "2 Broke Girls" was filmed in front of
a live studio audience. That counts, right?

Why theater?:
RS: I love the process of creating theater...the collaboration, and that rush you get when you hit it, and the audience is there with you...everyone on the same page.
CJ: Ya, you don't feel the detachment that you do with film/tv. Its cool to get that dialogue going with a theater audience, and they hold you accountable for everything. It's kind of invaluable as writers--you know right away if a joke or a reference isn't working, and you can fix it. When you post a video on the internet, for example, there's no takesies backsies!

Tell us about Snow White and Cinderella F**king Rage:
We are the REAL Snow White and Cinderella. All the movies you've seen, and stories you've read are based on us. We're huge celebs in our village--probably the biggest ones of all the princesses. We've seen Hollywood do our stories over and over, and we know how they end: we meet a prince, fall in love, and live happily ever after. Snow White and Cinderella F**king Rage starts the day after we've finally met our REAL princes, and they're massive disappointments. We decide we're not going to marry them, and our Fairy Godmother sends us on a wild bender through the Forbidden Forrest where we take a stab at writing our own happy endings. We hit some clubs, drink some potions, and then you pee
your pants laughing.

What inspired you to create Snow White and Cinderella F**king Rage?: 
RS: We have a web series together called "Available", and a stage show seemed like the logical next step. We wanted the challenge of producing a show on our own, and with the help of our fearless director, Kris Knight, we've created something of which we're really
proud.
CJ: We had an idea to do something Disney-princess-inspired for one of our "Available" episodes, but it was all animated, and would have been super expensive. So we put the idea on the back burner. Then, when we were brainstorming show ideas we both kept going back to this fairytale idea, and building on it. Now here we are! We were both very into Disney movies growing up. And Fairy Tales are having a moment right now. It just felt right!

What kind of theater speaks to you?: 
RS: I really love dark, humorous contemporary stuff. I'm a big fan of the work of SITI company, Studio 42, and The Management.
CJ: I like musicals. Or shows that are 30 mins or less, and make me laugh out loud.
RS: Hey, wait a minute, that sounds like OUR show!

What or who inspires you as an artist?:
CJ: I'm definitely inspired by anyone who "does it all", so to speak--Lena Dunham, Whitney Cummings, Tavi Gevinson, Mindy Kaling, and obviously, Tina Fey. But I'm also so so inspired when I hear that someone we went to school with wrote and directed a feature or
produced a show that's off broadway, or created a web series. It's so cool to hear about how well so many people are doing, and see "fruits of their labor" for lack of a better phrase. Seeing my peers work hard, and make awesome stuff motivates and inspires for sure.
RS: I grew up on Steve Martin. He's had a huge influence on my work.
CJ: Oh! Elaine Carroll!  And Fred Armisen and Carrie Brownstein. I mean...so many people.

Any roles you’re dying to play?:
CJ&RS: Yes. the new love interests of Jake Johnson and Max Greenfield on Fox's "New Girl". Soooo...the writer's room should get crackin' on those!

What’s your favorite showtune?:
RS: "I Cain't Say No" from Oklahoma. It makes being slutty okay.
CJ: This is the hardest question I've ever had to answer, but probably something from the Sound of Music.
RS: "The Hills are Alive"?
CJ: No
RS: "Edelweiss"?
CJ: No.
RS: This really is the hardest question you've ever had to answer.
CJ: Oh, duh! My favorite showtune is actually called "I Just Wanna Fuck", and Cinderella sings it in a little show I like to call, Snow White and Cinderella F**king Rage.

If you could work with anyone you’ve yet to work with, who would it be?:
RS: David Lynch. Oh god, am I that person? Whatever. It's true.
CJ: Thomas Lennon. He's the first person that popped into my mind! He seems fun. He never disappoints!

Who would play you in a movie about yourself and what would it be called?:
Kate Hudson and Anne Hathaway and it would be called "Bride Wars".

What show have you recommended to your friends?:
RS: Miss Lilly Gets Boned at Studio 42. I really enjoyed it, but unfortunately they just ended their run.
CJ: I love a good Maude night at UCB. Neighbor Boy and Stone Cold Fox are my favorite sketch groups there right now.

What’s your biggest guilty pleasure?:
Cupcakes and french fries, respectively.

If you weren’t working in theater, you would be _______?:
RS: A masseuse.
CJ: A holistic dermatologist!

What’s up next?:
RS: We are bringing the show back to LA (where it had it's world premiere at the Hollywood Fringe Festival this past June)! We'll be performing at this really great comedy club, I.O. West, the first two weeks of October.
CJ: Ya, we're excited about that. And we're filming a second season of our web series this August. So don't bother us. We'll be busy! We can hang out after August 13th.

For more on Risa and Christina, visit  http://risaandchristina.com/

Spotlight On...Randy Harrison

Name: Randy Harrison

Hometown: Nashua, New Hampshire

Education: BFA from CCM.  Also, tons of different teachers in the city.  I was pretty much constantly in different classes the first 7 years I was in NYC.

Select Credits: Red (Ken, George Street Playhouse & Cleveland Playhouse); The Habit of Art (Stuart, Studio Theatre DC); Twelfth Night (Sebastian, Shakespeare Theatre DC);  Waiting for Godot (Lucky), Ghosts (Osvald), The Who's Tommy (Tommy) at Berkshire Theatre Group; Wicked (Boq, Broadway)

Why theater?: I began performing as a child and the theatre has always been a home for me.   Being with actors in a rehearsal or on stage has always been one of the few places I really feel I belong and am accepted.  When I was younger, the more fantastical and magical aspects of the theatre appealed to me.  I loved that on the other side of the proscenium was a world where anything you imagined could exist and the rules of everyday reality didn't have to apply.  As I got older the poetic, social and political aspects of theatre really inspired me.  Seeing or reading Kushner, Beckett, Shakespeare- it makes me feel more deeply engaged in the world.  Also, some of the most cathartic and personally inspiring moments in my life have occurred as a member of an audience, and I want to be part of that for other people.

Tell us about Silence! the Musical: Ha ha.  After I get all deep, I'll talk about Silence! the Musical because this shit is DEEP.   Silence! the Musical is an unauthorized musical parody of "Silence of the Lambs", I kid you not.  Its insanely funny and raucous and filthy. I watched it a bunch rehearsing to go in, and I was laughing my ass off every night.

What is it like being a part of Silence! the Musical: It is so fun.  Its refreshing for me to be a clown, cause its an aspect of my personality that I haven't had much opportunity to explore professionally.  Also, I'm working with friends who I think are brilliant, so I feel lucky every night to look across the stage and see someone I love and admire do something so hilariously idiotic that I can't help but break.  And the audiences enjoy it so much that it really leaves you feeling rewarded.

What kind of theater speaks to you? What or who inspires you as an artist?: I have a hard time pinning it down.  When I go to the theatre I always want to see something personal, something engaged and a little bit idiosyncratic.   I like to be surprised and when you see plays all the time it can become hard to be surprised.  It's nice to be refreshed and challenged.  Even if the work is messy or doesn't come together, I find the attempt and the risk more inspiring than anything else.    Actors inspire me.  When you meet an actor with a long eclectic career who's managed to do some amazing work and keep a roof over their head and their feet on the ground, that's fucking inspiring because its not easy and you know how much they've sacrificed.   I'm also inspired by risk and failure.  People who aren't afraid, who can let go of needing to be right or good or liked. 

Any roles you’re dying to play?: I have a bunch of somedays, a few maybe sometime soons, but no absolutely right now at the moment.    Uncle Vanya, Richard the Second, Hamlet, George in Sunday in the Park.  I could do Beckett all the time, I love it so much.   I also really want to do more new work and work more with playwrights.

What’s your favorite showtune?: I think its a tie between "Move On" and "Rose's Turn"

If you could work with anyone you’ve yet to work with, who would it be?: Isabelle Huppert.

Who would play you in a movie about yourself and what would it be called?: I would want to pull some "Palindromes"/"I'm Not There" shit and have a ton of people play me.  Like all my friends.  It would be called something like "Accumulated Mistakes" or "Accident Prone: or something.  I dunno.   Lynne Ramsey would direct it and we'd shoot all over Europe and South America. Just 'cause. 

What’s your biggest guilty pleasure?: "Dance Moms Miami"

What show have you recommended to your friends?: "Dance Moms Miami"

What’s the best advice you can give someone trying to make it in theater?: Do it.  Jump on every opportunity.  Make your own work.  Don't have an ego about it.  Know what you love.

What’s up next?: I don't think people should ask actors that because we usually don't know and are forced to make something up that makes us seem glamourous and successful.   So for me I guess megastardom and something that pays my BILLZ.  I also want to work abroad.  And get back on TV.  And keep working with Jenn Harris.

Henry Winkler, Cheyenne Jackson to be The Performers; A Christmas Story Comes to Broadway

As the summer draws to a close, along with many Broadway shows, some vacancies are getting new tenants. The Longacre will get David West Read's The Performers starring Henry Winkler and Cheynne Jackson about Adult Film stars. The Performers will begin previews October 23rd with an opening on November 14th. The stage adaptation of A Christmas Story is set for a limited holiday engagement at the Lunt-Fontanne beginning November 5th playing until December 30th.

Spotlight On...Jeremy Bloom

Name: Jeremy Bloom
  
Hometown: Stamford, Connecticut

Education: Northwestern - Performance Studies and Poetry

Favorite Credits: La Boheme (Spoken), Peter~Wendy (Dark), Leaves of Grass (Nude), and this year it was quite a blessing to do the Soho Rep Writer/Director Lab. 

Why theater?: I used to want to be an architect, but am not so interested in practical things.  So, I am moved by spaces and the way people are affected by their surroundings. 

Tell us about The Girl of the Golden West: It's a Western!  It's a hoe-down.  It's a lovey story.  We're making a new western from David Belasco's novel of the same name (it was also a play and a Puccini opera), without particular attention to gender, historical accuracy or reason.  We use all types of music, composed by several cast members, phat beats and a stellar cast to make this epic classic intimate, immediate, and hilarious.  Our story takes place at the Polka Saloon, run by the only girl in a mining camp.  Everybody wants to marry her, but she still has her first kiss to give.  A stranger comes to town and changes the whole game.  It's dangerous. 

What inspired you to create The Girl of the Golden West?: I first noticed this existed in a coffee table book that had a photo from the Broadway production a hundred years ago.  I mean I first became interested in doing a cowgirl type of story because as a child, I gravitated towards the cowboy version of legos and play mobil.  The saloons, the cards, the guns... irresistible.   And anyway, after a while I had read the play and discussed doing it with Jen Mckenna - we didn't really like the play though.  But it turns out the book is amazing, it's as golden as the girl.  Using that has made an adaptation kind of opposite of Puccini's adaptation, more intimate and rip-roaring.  Once it was happening, the cast Catherine Brookman, Starr Busby, Tom Hennes, Brian Rady and musicians Ellen O'Meara, Joe White and Lucas Segall literally inspire every moment of the show and are very magnificent. 

What kind of theater speaks to you? What or who inspires you as an artist?: Theater that is elegant, confident, visual, surprising.  I hope we can all agree that Map of Virtue by Erin Courtney with Ken Russ Schmoll directing was the most thrilling thing in a while, and one of the more thrilling things of all time.  Also, of course, Les Ephemeres, Mabou Mines Dollhouse, Pina Bausch.  Also, my teachers, Mary Zimmerman, Frank Galati, Paul Edwards, Robin Schiff.  Then Patti Smith in general, as well as Elizabeth Bishop, Allen Ginsberg, Sandra Bernhard, and Caetano Veloso, and Avan Lava, Maria Striar, Lonesome George, Jenny Schwartz, Mother Nature, the team for this show to name a very few...  

If you could work with anyone you’ve yet to work with, who would it be?: Senior citizens!

What shows have you recommended to your friends?: All of Clubbed Thumb this summer and Uncle Vanya. 

Who would play you in a movie about yourself and what would it be called?: I would be played by a stop animated puppet, made by our wonderful costume designer, Kathleen Doyle, made out of paper.  It might not have a title. 

What’s your biggest guilty pleasure?: Avocados  

If you weren’t working in theater, you would be _____?: A housepainter! 

What’s up next?: A new play about dying horses - Lameness of a Horse!  And a new adaptation of "Peter Pan" at Montclair State University.

For more on Jeremy, visit http://radyandbloom.com/

Ghost to Disappear in August

The Broadway flop Ghost, the technically advanced production that had more life in London, is set to close on August 18th after 39 previews and 136 performances. The musical based on the 1990 film will tour in the USA in 2013 with planned productions world wide. Will you miss Ghost or forget it even exist? Remember, the 2012 Tony performance will forever live on.

2012 NYIT Awards Announced

The 2012 New York Innovative Theatre Awards were announced yesterday. Below are the nominees.

Outstanding Ensemble

The Complete and Condensed Stage Directions of Eugene O'Neill: Vol. 1, Early/Lost Plays
Daniel Burnam, Brendan Donaldson, Cara Francis, Connor Kalista, Jacquelyn Landgraf, Erica Livingston, Lauren Sharpe, New York Neo-Futurists

Conni's Avant Garde Restaurant Returns in: The Mothership Landing
Justin Badger, David M. Barber, Melody Bates, Stephanie Dodd, Jeffrey Fracé, Connie Hall, Kelly Hayes, Jerusha Klemperer, Peter Lettre, Rachel Murdy, Melody Bates, Peter Richards, Conni’s Avant Garde Restaurant in association with the Irondale Center

Eightythree Down
Melody Bates, Ian Holcomb, Bryan Kaplan, Brian Miskell, Hard Sparks in association with Horse Trade Theatre Group

For Black Boys Who Have Considered Homicide When the Streets Were Too Much
Loren Amos, Duane Boutte, Alexis Francisco, Anthony Gaskins, Michael Alexis Palmer, David Roberts, Robert G. Siverls, Zook, Modern-Day Griot Theatre Company

Homunculus: Reloaded
Adriana Chavez, David DeSantis, Lauren Elder, Regina Gibson, Mel House, Jennifer Luong, Eeva Semerdjiev, William Silva, Brett Teresa, Homunculus Mask Theater

Urban Odyssey
Penelope Armstead-Williams, Rocky Bostick, Ching-I Chang, Maura Donohue, Denise Greber, Alice Pasturel, Federico Restrepo, Gilbert Reyes, Kiku Sakai, Kayla Schetter, LaMaMa Experimental Theater Club in association with LOCO7

Outstanding Solo Performance

Bree Benton, Poor Baby Bree in I Am Going to Run Away, LaMaMa Experimental Theater Club

Greg Oliver Bodine, Poe, Times Two, WorkShop Theater Company

Zac Jaffee, Heroes and Other Strangers, the cell theatre

Melanie Jones, Endure: A Run Woman Show, Collision Productions

Juan Francisco Villa, Empanada For A Dream, Ballybeg & terraNOVA Collective

Raïna von Waldenburg, Oysters Orgasms Obituaries, LaMaMa Experimental Theater Club in association with Center for Embodied Performance

Outstanding Actor in a Featured Role

Karl Gregory, Frogs, Fault Line Theatre

Ian Holcomb, Eightythree Down, Hard Sparks in association with Horse Trade Theatre Group

Jason Howard, Advance Man, Gideon Productions

Bryan Kaplan, Eightythree Down, Hard Sparks in association with Horse Trade Theatre Group

Curry Whitmire, Christopher Marlowe's Chloroform Dreams, Lunar Energy

Stephen Alan Wilson, The Last Days of Judas Iscariot, T. Schreiber Studio

Outstanding Actress in a Featured Role

Celeste Arias, Demon Dreams (Oni No Yume), Magic Futurebox

Lauren Blumenfeld, Exit Carolyn, Sans A Productions

Teresa Kelsey, The House of Mirth, Metropolitan Playhouse

Marie Marshall, The House of Mirth, Metropolitan Playhouse

Ryan Templeton, A Hard Wall at High Speed, Astoria Performing Arts Center

Halley Wegryn Gross, Sex Good; Money Bad, Broken Watch Theatre Company

Outstanding Actor in a Lead Role

Adam Barrie, Dust, Tenement Street Workshop in association with Incubator Arts Project

Hunter Canning, Dust, Tenement Street Workshop in association with Incubator Arts Project

Karl Gregory, From White Plains, Fault Line Theatre

Greg Horton, A Man of No Importance, The Gallery Players

Brian Miskell, Eightythree Down, Hard Sparks in association with Horse Trade Theatre Group

Charlie Owens, A Man of No Importance, The Gallery Players

Aidan Redmond, The Real Thing, Boomerang Theatre Company

Outstanding Actress in a Lead Role

Melody Bates, Eightythree Down, Hard Sparks in association with Horse Trade Theatre Group

Renee Claire Bergeron, A Man of No Importance, The Gallery Players

Casandera M.J. Lollar, The Runner Stumbles, Retro Productions

Charlotte Pines, Callous Cad, Tom X. Chao in association with Kim Katzberg

Laura Ramadei, Exit Carolyn, Sans A Productions

Christina Shipp, Ajax in Iraq, Flux Theatre Ensemble

Outstanding Choreography/Movement

Jessica Isa Burns, For Black Boys Who Have Considered Homicide When the Streets Were Too Much, Modern-Day Griot Theatre Company

Lee Sunday Evans, The Deepest Play Ever: The Catharsis of Pathos, CollaborationTown

Christine O'Grady, A Man of No Importance, The Gallery Players

Joe Osheroff & Evan Zes, Homunculus: Reloaded, Homunculus Mask Theater

Lauren Sharpe, The Complete and Condensed Stage Directions of Eugene O'Neill: Vol. 1, Early/Lost Plays, New York Neo-Futurists

Turner Smith, Romeo and Juliet, Northwest Passage

Outstanding Director

Kevin Laibson, Demon Dreams (Oni No Yume), Magic Futurebox

Christopher Loar, The Complete and Condensed Stage Directions of Eugene O'Neill: Vol. 1, Early/Lost Plays, New York Neo-Futurists

Joe Osheroff, Homunculus: Reloaded, Homunculus Mask Theater

Alex Roe, The House of Mirth, Metropolitan Playhouse

Aaron Rossini, Frogs, Fault Line Theatre

August Schulenburg, Ajax in Iraq, Flux Theatre Ensemble

Outstanding Lighting Design

Nick Francone, Miranda, MirandaCo

Richard Kent Green, Poe, Times Two, WorkShop Theater Company

Ben Hagen & Joe Skowronski, LoveSick (or Things That Don't Happen), Project Y Theatre Company

David A. Sexton, The Spring Fling: My Best/Worst Date Ever, F*It Club

Cat Tate Starmer, A Hard Wall at High Speed, Astoria Performing Arts Center

Jeanette Oi-Suk Yew, Conni's Avant Garde Restaurant Returns in: The Mothership Landing, Conni’s Avant Garde Restaurant in association with the Irondale Center

Outstanding Costume Design

Sidney Fortner, The House of Mirth, Metropolitan Playhouse

Denise Greber, Urban Odyssey, LaMaMa Experimental Theater Club in association with LOCO7

Kim Katzberg, Penetrating the Space, Kim Katzberg

Jessica Sofia Mitrani, Hypnotik: The Seer Will Doctor You Now, The New Stage Theatre Comapny

Ayanna Siverls-Streater, For Black Boys Who Have Considered Homicide When the Streets Were Too Much, Modern-Day Griot Theatre Company

David L. Zwiers, The Asphalt Christmas, Gracye Productions

Outstanding Set Design

Stephen K. Dobay, A Hard Wall at High Speed, Astoria Performing Arts Center

Kevin Judge, LoveSick (or Things That Don't Happen), Project Y Theatre Company

Sarah E. Martin & Sara Nelson, The Spring Fling: My Best/Worst Date Ever, F*It Club

Steve O'Shea, Up To You, TADA! Youth Theater

Sean Ryan, Clowns Full-Tilt:  A Musing on Aesthetics, Clowns Ex Machina/La MaMa

Andy Yanni, Felix and the Diligence, or a Play About Fishermen in the 1940's, Pipeline Theatre Company

Outstanding Sound Design

Martha Goode, Costa Rehab, Maieutic Theatre Works (MTWorks)

Christopher Loar, The Complete and Condensed Stage Directions of Eugene O'Neill: Vol. 1, Early/Lost Plays, New York Neo-Futurists

Mark Parenti, The Spring Fling: My Best/Worst Date Ever, F*It Club

Nathan A. Roberts, A Hard Wall at High Speed, Astoria Performing Arts Center

Tim Schellenbaum, Urban Odyssey, LaMaMa Experimental Theater Club in association with LOCO7

Matt Schloss, Miranda, MirandaCo

Outstanding Innovative Design

Gyda Arber & Aaron Baker, Phone & Text Design, Red Cloud Rising, The Fifth Wall in association with The Brick Theater

Maia Cruz Palileo, Animation and Sculpture, Penetrating the Space, Kim Katzberg

Elizabeth Barrett Groth & Amy Mathews, Puppet Design, We in Silence Hear a Whisper, Red Fern Theatre Company

Joe Osheroff, Mask Design, Homunculus: Reloaded, Homunculus Mask Theater

Federico Restrepo & Angela Sierra, Video Editing & Design, Urban Odyssey, LaMaMa Experimental Theater Club in association with LOCO7

Suchan Vodoor, Interactive Technology Design, Endure: A Run Woman Show, Collision Productions

Outstanding Original Music

Karolyn Bethke, Kris Kukul, John Sully, Elizabeth Swados & Martin Wallace, Urban Odyssey, LaMaMa Experimental Theater Club in association with LOCO7

Sasha Bogdanowitsch, Erosion: a Fable, Loom Ensemble

Christine Owman, Endure: A Run Woman Show, Collision Productions

Jeff Raab, 12th Night, Libra Theater Company

Kamala Sankaram, Miranda, MirandaCo

Sxip Shirey, Prometheus Within, LaMaMa Experimental Theater Club in association with Skysaver Productions

Outstanding Original Short Script

Lucy Boyle, Mort, The Spring Fling: My Best/Worst Date Ever, F*It Club

Chisa Hutchinson, This is Not the Play, Mad Dog Theatre Company

Dean Imperial, The Needle Through the Arm Trick, Too Much Too Soon, Lesser America

Vincent Marano, Artistic License, What I Meant Was... The Odd, Short-Ish Of Vinnie Marano, teatro oscuro

Joe Osheroff & Evan Zes, Homunculus: Reloaded, Homunculus Mask Theater

Anna Ziegler, A Map of Broken Glass, The Spring Fling: My Best/Worst Date Ever, F*It Club

Outstanding Original Full-Length Script

Zac Jaffee, Heroes and Other Strangers, the cell theatre

Melanie Jones, Endure: A Run Woman Show, Collision Productions

Mariah MacCarthy, The Foreplay Play, Caps Lock Theatre

Michael Perlman, From White Plains, Fault Line Theatre

Mac Rogers, Advance Man, Gideon Productions

Juan Francisco Villa, Empanada For A Dream, Ballybeg & terraNOVA Collective

Outstanding Performance Art Piece

The Complete and Condensed Stage Directions of Eugene O'Neill: Vol. 1, Early/Lost Plays, New York Neo-Futurists

Conni's Avant Garde Restaurant Returns in: The Mothership Landing, Conni’s Avant Garde Restaurant in association with the Irondale Center

Empanada For A Dream, Ballybeg & terraNOVA Collective

Endure: A Run Woman Show, Collision Productions

For Black Boys Who Have Considered Homicide When the Streets Were Too Much, Modern-Day Griot Theatre Company

Homunculus: Reloaded, Homunculus Mask Theater

Outstanding Production of a Musical

LoveSick (or Things That Don't Happen), Project Y Theatre Company

A Man of No Importance, The Gallery Players

Miranda, MirandaCo

The Secret Garden, Astoria Performing Arts Center

Unville Brazil, FullStop Collective

Up To You, TADA! Youth Theater

Outstanding Premiere Production of a Play

Advance Man, Gideon Productions

Demon Dreams (Oni No Yume), Magic Futurebox

Eightythree Down, Hard Sparks in association with Horse Trade Theatre Group

The Foreplay Play, Caps Lock Theatre

From White Plains, Fault Line Theatre

A Hard Wall at High Speed, Astoria Performing Arts Center

Outstanding Production of a Remounted Play

Ajax in Iraq, Flux Theatre Ensemble

Frogs, Fault Line Theatre

The House of Mirth, Metropolitan Playhouse

Poe, Times Two, WorkShop Theater Company

The Real Thing, Boomerang Theatre Company

The Violet Hour, The Active Theater in association with Goode Productions

Spotlight On...John Clancy

Name: John Clancy

Hometown: St. Louis, MO

Education: Oberlin College

Favorite Credits: Fatboy, The Event, Horse Country, Cincinnati

Why theater?: So as not to go crazy and end up in jail.

Tell us about The Apocalyptic Road Show With Your Hosts Gdjet And Lulu:  It’s good.  Really very good.

What inspired you to write?: Most of my inspiration comes from these voices in my head.   I just do what they say, it’s easier that way.

What kind of theater speaks to you? What or who inspires you as an artist?: I like very direct and funny theater.  Buster Keaton, Samuel Beckett, Ernie Kovacs, Bill Hicks, those kind of guys.

If you could work with anyone you’ve yet to work with, who would it be?: Lee Iacocco

What shows have you recommended to your friends?: All of mine.

Who would play you in a movie about yourself and what would it be called?: Matt Damon in “Clancy! Clancy! Clancy!  The True Life Tale of John Clancy as told to John Clancy by John Clancy”.

If you weren’t working in theater, you would be _____?: Playing in the theater.

What’s up next?: Probably grabbing a drink.  You?

For more visit http://clancyproductions.com/

Breaking: New Dan Mills Musical Fiction In Photographs, Directed by Randy Redd, Will Play 92YTribeca; Casting Announced

Fiction In Photographs, which features music and lyrics by Dan Mills and an original book by Randy Redd, will play 92YTribeca next month. Show time at the downtown venue located at 200 Hudson Street is scheduled for Monday, August 6th at 8PM. The new musical is being presented as a benefit for New York-based Sing For Hope.

A second concert staging of the original pop-rock musical will be presented at 3PM on Tuesday, August 7th at The Laurie Beechman Theater for a private industry-only audience.

The dynamic words and music of singer-songwriter Dan Mills are the centerpiece of this new musical. The time-twisting story, told by 5 actors in one compelling act, is by actor and writer Randy Redd. A delicate balance of wisdom and sentiment, Fiction In Photographs reveals the vivid contrasts between life as it is remembered and life as it happens. Fiction In Photographs, a multimedia theatrical event, is a fresh, sincere and ultimately heartbreaking contemporary musical.

The cast will feature Cole Burden (25th Anniversary Les Miserables, Applause), singer-songwriter Adam Day, Alysha Deslorieux (Sister Act), newcomer David Mizzoni and Lauren Pritchard (Spring Awakening).

Dan Mills is a singer-songwriter, guitarist and actor from Brooklyn, NY. Mills’ eponymous has released 3 full length albums. As an actor, Dan Mills portrayed “Carl Perkins” in the Broadway and Off Broadway casts of Million Dollar Quartet and also appeared with his band on NBC's "Smash".

In a statement writer Mills said, "As a songwriter and an artist I try and write from an honest place. My process is in-the-moment and very personal for me. I never really know where a song is going to end up in the world if it ends up out there at all. So, seeing my music travel from pen & paper to the theater is something that is very exciting and refreshing for me.  Fiction In Photographs has transformed these tunes into something I could have never imagined, and being an artist for a while now, it's surprised me how a collaborative vision can grow into an amazing piece of art."

Randy Redd made his Broadway debut in Parade and recently appeared as “Jerry Lee Lewis” in the hit Off Broadway musical Million Dollar Quartet as well as The Burnt Part Boys, Some Men and Ring Of Fire. He collaborated with David Pittu on the critically-acclaimed What's That Smell: The Music Of Jacob Sterling at the Atlantic Theater Company.

The creative team also includes choreographer Jacob Pinion and vocal arranger and musical director Adam Podd who co-wrote the internationally acclaimed sensation The Spidey Project with Doug Katsaros. The upcoming presentation is being produced by Philip Katz, Broadway Theatricals and Amanda Rehbein. Tickets will go on sale July 23rd at 92YTribeca; proceeds go to Sing For Hope. Founded by opera singers with a desire to lift their voices for social change, Sing For Hope is a non-profit organization that mobilizes more than 600 professional artists – from classical musicians to photographers to Broadway performers – in volunteer service programs that benefit schools, hospitals and communities. Sing For Hope's volunteer programs bring arts education to under-resourced youth, provide in-hospital performances that complement the healing process and raise awareness for humanitarian causes. http://www.singforhope.org/

For more on Fiction in Photographs, visit http://www.fictioninphotographs.com/

Little Miss Sunshine to Be the Rebel Daughter in Osage County

It's been reported that "Little Miss Sunshine" herself, Abigail Breslin, will play Jean Fordham, the rebel daughter of Barbara Fordham, played by Julia Roberts, in the film version of August: Osage County. Additionally, Juliette Lewis and Chris Cooper are said to be in negotiations for roles as well. How are we feeling about the Fordham clan thus far?

Katie Holmes to Make a Broadway Comeback

Fresh from her high profile divorce from Tom Cruise, Katie Holmes will be returning to Broadway in Theresa Rebeck's Dead Accountants. The play, directed by Jack O'Brien, will play the Music Box Theater. Holmes previously appeared in the revival of All My Sons in 2008. It's a bit fishy that this announcement comes days after she made headlines, but I suppose she has more free time now that she's released from her marriage with Cruise.

Spotlight On...Dana Yeaton

Name: Dana Yeaton

Hometown: Epsom, NH

Education: Middlebury College, Goddard College

Favorite Credits: Moss Hart Award for Mad River Rising, Helen Hayes nomination for Redshirts, the Heideman Award.

Why theater?: Because it’s an almost impossible challenge. A group of strangers meet in the dark in hopes that something transcendent will occur? No way! But then, sometimes ... way.

Tell us about Swing State: It’s a musical about these two lost souls -- she’s an evangelical Kindergarten teacher in Ohio, and he’s the gay chiropractor, who’s new in town and gets to treat her chronic back problems. And she’s his only real patient, so they desperately need each other, desperately want to change each other, but of course they’re speaking different languages. Sort of like Red and Blue America.

What inspired you to write Swing State?: I spend a lot of time bummed out about this country and wondering how to deal with that. Maybe if I stopped listening to the news. Maybe if I stopped reading those crazy forwarded emails from my dad. Maybe if I just became a higher being, I wouldn’t spend so much time, as my chiropractor puts it “hating people I’ve never met.” So for dramatic purposes, I started with a “what if.” “What if those awful people who are ruining this country . . . were your only hope?”

What kind of theater speaks to you? What or who inspires you as an artist?: I like naturalism that lifts off. And I’m a sucker for the little guy: un-extraordinary people in situations that keep revealing just how deep they go. So I like the writers who start small and real, then earn their theatricality.

If you could work with anyone you’ve yet to work with, who would it be?: Have you ever heard the story of how Oskar Eustis worked with Tony Kushner on Angels in America? I want that. Oskar Eustis, please.

What show have you recommended to your friends?: After I saw Amy Herzog’s 4,000 Miles I pretty much would not shut up about it. Same goes for Tribes by Nina Raine. Two writers at the top of their games.

Who would play you in a movie about yourself and what would it be called?: I would play the disapproving-but-kind father who has to keep talking his son out of trees. It’s called "Lucky Boy."

What’s your biggest guilty pleasure?: Please don’t tell my children, but this month, living in Brooklyn, I seem to be someone who will sit on a stoop, wearing a tank top and smoking a hand-rolled cigarette. Who knew?

If you weren’t working in theater, you would be _____?: An architect, because their ideas turn into spaces that people live and work in.

What’s up next?: All I know is that it takes place on a cruise ship, deals with the slave labor force those ships run on, and features a cabaret singer who believes she is co-writing songs with Janis Joplin. And Janis is doing much better these days.

Spotlight On...Tommaso Antico

Name: Tommaso Antico

Hometown: New Baltimore, MI

Education: Musical Mondays at Splash

Select Credits: Off Broadway- Altar Boyz, My Big... Italian Wedding, The Donkey Show; National Tours- Hairspray, Cabaret, Altar Boyz.

Why theater?: I ask myself that same question everyday. I love the high from the live audience. I love how you never know if the show is gonna come together in time... and then it does.  I love how the first day of rehearsal everyone is kinda shy and timid and then by the time you're open, you're a big family.

Tell us about The Groove Factory?: Set in 1999, New Years Eve. The story follows my character (Chazz) to New York City where he meets many interesting characters in the Nightlife World.  A production with all Electronic/Dance music, it captures the freeness of the 90's era.

What is it like being a part of The Groove Factory?: "Sex, Drugs and Disco all Day!" One of my lines from the show and it IS just that... our props table has crack pipes on it, we have drag queens running around, 3 fabulous divas, rapping and vogue-ing.

What kind of theater speaks to you? What or who inspires you as an artist?: I am always drawn to Contemporary Theatre. Not a traditional boy at all. Don't want to see it, don't want to audition for it.  I'm inspired by artists who take risks and create from the ground up.  I'd much rather be part of a new production where I can explore and create a character of my own, rather than revive  somebody else's creation.

Any roles you’re dying to play?: Jonathan in Tick Tick Boom or Gabe in Next to Normal. I would do those roles for no pay, for 2 weeks in Ohio.  Just kidding, but you know what I mean.

What’s your favorite showtune?: "Making Whoopie" or anything by Jason Robert Brown.

If you could work with anyone you’ve yet to work with, who would it be?: LIZA!! Ha! I don't know.  I just want her to tell me stories about Mama!

Who would play you in a movie about yourself and what would it be called?: "You say Tomato, I say Tommaso" starring Patrick Dempsy circa "Cant Buy Me Love"

What show have you recommended to your friends?: Pricilla! I Lived for that show!

What’s the best advice you can give someone trying to make it in theater?: Get out while you can!!!! JK, JK...  Ugh, so many things.  You are Enough, Don't wait by the phone, Dance is really important, Its not all about riffing, make strong acting choices, Save money, Keep taking class, Find Something else other than theatre that makes you happy, Actors are nuts, Know when to relax and have a drink, It's not that deep, its theatre.. we're not saving babies here....

What’s up next?: Unemployment and a Vacation

Porgy and Bess to Shutter a Week Early

The Tony winning revival of The Gershwin's Porgy and Bess to shutter on September 23rd instead of September 30th. This is to make way for a new tenant. The musical, which got Audra McDonald her 5th Tony Award, will have played 322 performances.

Spotlight On...Melissa van der Schyff

Name: Melissa van der Schyff

Hometown: Victoria, B.C., Canada

Education: B.F.A. in Acting & minor in Music from The College of Santa Fe, N.M. (now called Santa Fe University of Art and Design) with a semester at The British American Drama Academy in London.

Select Credits: Bonnie and Clyde (Blanche Barrow, Broadway, Drama Desk and Outer Critics Nominations); Big River (Mary Jane, Deaf West/Roundabout Theater Company, 2004 Tony Honor for Excellence in Theater along with castmates); Pippin (Catherine, Deaf West and Mark Taper Forum, Jeff Calhoun director); An Italian Straw Hat (Virginia/Clara, South Coast Repertory Theater); Zhivago (Yelenka, La Jolla Playhouse); Bonnie and Clyde (Blanche Barrow, La Jolla Playhouse and Asolo Theater); Big River (Mary Jane, Deaf West Theater, Mark Taper Forum and National Tour)

Why theater?: It's the thrill of connecting with a live audience every night. The sense of community and team work among the actors, creative team and crew that has to happen to make a production fly. Onstage you have to be totally present and it's where I feel the most alive as an artist.

Tell us about Baby Case: Baby Case is the compelling story of the kidnapping of Charles and Ann Lindbergh's baby son in the 1930's. Charles was a huge celebrity at the time because he was the first man to fly solo across the Atlantic Ocean. During the Depression era in America he gave the country hope of elevation out of their dire circumstances. He helped people to believe great things were possible. The kidnapping of his son was a huge media event and became a strange obsession and fascination for all, not unlike the sensation around the O.J. case, Jon Benet Ramsey case etc. There are so many amazing twists and turns in the story… it will keep you on the edge of your seat! Everything composer/book writer Michael Ogborn has included is based on fact, so when you gasp thinking something just couldn't be true or certain characters just couldn't have done this or that, guess again!

What is it like being a part of Baby Case?: It's a whirlwind! We have 11 amazing actors in the company playing about 97 roles…so everyone is working together as a solid team to make this show happen. Composer Michael Ogborn has written a touching, eloquent and witty score that reminds me a bit of Assassins meets Chicago, yet is totally unique.

What kind of theater speaks to you? What or who inspires you as an artist?: I love any theater that is honestly trying to tell a good story. I grew up on plays and movies more than musicals so when I see a musical I love to see good actors as well as singers. There are so many artists that inspire me. I love Michael Friedman and Alex Timbers because they are always thinking outside the box and I feel a kinship to their sense of humor. As far as performances go, I am inspired when an actor sacrifices the temptations to be glamorous for truth. Like…hey..maybe don't wear false eyelashes if you are playing a homeless person…you may not look as pretty but your job is about helping the audience to believe the story you are telling. It takes a lot of bravery to just let it all hang out. I recently saw Jonathan Pryce in The Caretaker. He totally took on the character he was playing. It was inspiring.

Any roles you’re dying to play?: I would love to do some Shakespeare…To play Lady Macbeth would be amazing, I would also love to do an all out comedic role as I have a strong background in comedy and love physical comedy.

What’s your favorite showtune?: I am always partial to anything jazzy. I started out as a jazz singer so many tunes I actually heard for the first time as jazz standards and later realized they were showtunes. I also love Sondheim.

If you could work with anyone you’ve yet to work with, who would it be?: I would say Stephen Sondheim, Alex Timbers and Joe Mantello.

Who would play you in a movie about yourself and what would it be called?: I think Kristen Wiig would be fun. I would call the movie "the girl with the really long last name but no dragon tattoo."

What show have you recommended to your friends?: I usually recommend Peter and the Starcatcher and Tribes

What’s the best advice you can give someone trying to make it in theater?: To get good training and to have other interests that feed you as a person and an artist.

What’s up next?: I am working on a music project (I also write music) this summer. And look forward to more exciting roles in the fall!

Spotlight On...Stephanie Fittro

Name: Stephanie Fittro

Hometown: Okemos, MI

Education: The School of Hard Knocks!!

Select Credits: Legally Blonde (Kate/Chutney, Broadway- Palace Theater); Hairspray (First National Tour); West Side Story (Anybodys, 50th Anniversary Tour); Carousel (Ensemble/Swing, First National Tour); The Merry Widow (Joujou Met Opera); Jesus and Mandy (Mandy, Theater For The New City); Rough Crossing (Lady of the Chorus, Yale Rep); Seven Brides for Seven Brothers (Sarah Kines, Papermill Playhouse); Finian’s Rainbow (Swing, Irish Repertory Theatre);

Why theater?: It's mostly genetic I think.  My dad's side is all singers and performers.  In fact my grandmother met my grandfather because she heard him singing on the radio in West Virginia and hopped on a bicycle- not even hers, a neighbors!- to go find him.  Which was impressive because she was in Ohio.  Kidding.  But she did hop on that stolen bike. 

Tell us about Arnie the Doughnut: Arnie the Doughnut is a wonderful family musical based on the best selling children's book by Laurie Keller.  Frances Limoncelli artfully adapted the book and George Howe wrote fantastic music and lyrics.  It's about a doughnut who dreams of being more than someone's delicious snack.  It's a whimsical, funny and poignant story that also rocks some serious tunes ranging from 60s pop ala Bacharach to vaudeville. 

What is it like being a part of Arnie the Doughnut?: It's been incredible.  Frances and George have created a beautiful show with a lot of heart- it's like "the little show that could"!  They did a previous version in Chicago that developed a cult following and some of those audience members came to opening night here which was amazing.  Our cast is wonderful, Tom Deckman (who plays Arnie) is out of this world! Our director Adam Arian has provided great energy and fresh perspective.  But Frances (as our producer) and George have parented this in a way where we all feel very nurtured.  It's so gratifying to work with the writers and say "is this what you meant?" and have a dialogue about it.  They even added a song for my character, Jelly, which was a dream come true. 

What kind of theater speaks to you? What or who inspires you as an artist?: I like anything good, be it Shakespeare or the circus.  But theater that blends the funny and the sad- that's sacred to me. As a choreographer (I trained as a dancer, and now choreograph quite a bit) I love Jerome Robbins, Agnes DeMille and Pina Bausch.  As a singer, jazz music and jazz singers. As an actress, comedians like Kristin Wiig or actress Nina Arandia. 

Any roles you’re dying to play?: After I saw "The Nights of Caberia", which was the Fellini movie that inspired Sweet Charity, I believed I could do that role, and want to very much.  In the Italian version of the story she is little and tough and clowny like me! 

What’s your favorite show tune?: I am a Rodgers and Hammerstein nerd and can often be caught singing anything from South Pacific to Sound of Music to Carousel (the 1st National tour of Carousel was my professional debut and is probably my favorite score). 

If you could work with anyone you’ve yet to work with, who would it be?: Aggh!! So many people!! Are time and death obstacles?  Because I am really sad about missing Pina. 

Who would play you in a movie about yourself and what would it be called?: I think Joan Cusack could split the part with Jack Black in a wig just so he could do my prat falls.  And it would be called "CareActor", about the 2 year period when I. Could. Not. Audition. Well.  I just cared too much what others thought and made myself a nervous wreck. 

What show have you recommended to your friends?: Book of Mormon because I am super concerned about their sales.  Hangin on by a thread, I hear.  And I recommend Once to myself because I want to see it!!

What’s the best advice you can give someone trying to make it in theater?: Be a creator.  The only time we feel like pawns is when we don't realize our innate power to create, and it leads to a lot of negativity.  Just love what you do unapologetically and do whatever it takes to keep the love pure. 

What’s up next?: Im thinkin that "CareActor" idea could be my comedy cabaret I keep threatening to do...

For more on Arnie the Doughnut visit http://www.nymf.org/arniethedoughnut. For a preview of the show, visit http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=57CuGD-7j04&feature=youtu.be

Spotlight On...Eliseo Roman

Name:  Eliseo N Roman

Hometown: Lancaster, PA

Education: BS in Business Admin and Economics

Select Credits: Leap of Faith (Angel of Mercy, St James Theatre); In the Heights (Piragua Guy, Richard Rodgers); Little Miss Sunshine (Buddy Garcia, La Jolla Playhouse);
A New Brain (Minister, Lincoln Center); Godspell (York Theatre, All Good Gifts). 2007 Drama Desk Winner

Why theater?: When I was young, I actually wanted to be a recording artist.  I'd run around with my record player (yep) and sing everything from Stevie Wonder, to Earth Wind and Fire to Willie Colon.  However, coming from a conservative Latin family, their encouragement was toward a financially secure job and life.  Hence, I went into Banking.  I worked in Banking for years and began doing some theatre on the side and realized how much it fed me. How it reignited my passion of singing.  To create characters with depth and feelings that had to sing was a almost an exact parallel to how I felt at times in my own life.  So....I quit Banking and began my true life in pursuit of the theatre.

Tell us about Zapata:  Zapata is based on the Mexican Revolutionary that fought on behalf of the people to regain their lands taken from the corrupt government of the time.  Its definitely a story that directly correlates to the struggles that our world is facing now.  The struggles for Equality, for Children's rights, for Hunger.  Its amazing how the past still informs our present.  It's message is definitely spoken in one of the lyrics the wonderful Natalie Toro sings in one of her songs: " We must fight for what we LOVE, not for what we Hate".

What is it like being a part of Zapata?: This is my first NYMF experience.  I have been blessed to have been working for these past few years and so I never had this opportunity before. I'm thrilled to be part of this festival and Zapata.  We have an wonderful and loving cast full of Latin people! YESSSS!  Doesn't happen very often in mainstream theatre as we all know. So we are working for very diligently to make this story as relevant and as good as it can be.

What kind of theater speaks to you? What or who inspires you as an artist?: Well, I made myself a promise that if I could maneuver my career (as much as we can control it), I would like to always work on new projects.  Ive been very fortunate to be able to do a lot of that thus far. In the Heights, Leap of Faith, Little Miss Sunshine to name a few.  Theatre can be a reflection of the times and can also provoke conversation.  I love when theatre can push the audiences button in some capacity.  To me, that's whats most thrilling. So many things inspire me. But one of the most important things is to be able to see myself onstage.  To see Hispanic performers on a Broadway stage inspires so much of what, to some, may not be possible.  Growing up we had Chita Rivera, Rita Moreno, Raul Julia. We could name them.  Unfortunately, that is still somewhat the case.  Doing In the Heights opened the door for such a diverse group of people to be represented not only onstage but in the audience.  Maybe someone who saw the show will be inspired to pursue their dreams in theatre. We need more performers of color to step into the front lines.  Not only as performers, but as writers, composers, directors, choreographers and producers of Broadway theatre.

Any roles you’re dying to play?: Ive been pretty fortunate to have played some of my favorite roles such as Judas and Che Guevara and Kevin Rosario. I would have loved to play Aldolpho in Drowsy Chaperone.  But what I'd love to do is to work on a play.  It seems to be a difficult task in this town to move back and forth from musicals to plays. Very few are given that option. I don't really know why. But I'd love to create a character in a play. Maybe a darker, layered character would be fun!
 
What’s your favorite showtune?: Wow....that's tough.  I'd say there are two:  "Somewhere" from West Side Story and "Move On" from Sunday in the Park.

If you could work with anyone you’ve yet to work with, who would it be?: That's easy:  GEORGE WOLF   I have always wanted to be directed by him.  I find him to be such a smart, enlightened, creative director.  I have several friends who have worked with him and they've all confirmed my beliefs. I almost had the opportunity when I was up for A Free Man of Color.....obviously, I didn't get it.  I will still claim it: I WILL WORK WITH GEORGE WOLF! 
 
Who would play you in a movie about yourself and what would it be called?: Who else would play me, but me. C'mon.  OK, if I can't play me, then I'd like John Leguizamo to play me in the movie titled: " Todo es Posible" or "Anything is Possible"!

What show have you recommended to your friends?: Once and Peter and the Starcatcher.  Both: AMAHZING!

What’s the best advice you can give someone trying to make it in theater?: Anything is possible if you have faith in yourself,  your talent and perseverance.  Also, always be PREPARED when you audition.  Know the material, make your choices and LIVE the audition. Leave it all in the room so that when you leave, you know you did everything you could have done.  Then release it all.  My motto:  Onward and Upward.
   
What’s up next?:  Besides Zapata, I have a reading of a new show coming up and am continuing my work on a musical Ive been writing.  I am also claiming a Tony award winning role in a Broadway show, a series regular playing Sophia Vergara's next door neighbor and an Academy award playing opposite Meryl Streep.  Hows that?! :)

Spotlight On...Anthony Festa

Name: Anthony Festa

Hometown: Saratoga Springs NY

Education: Cortland State University B.A in Musical Theatre

Select Credits: How Deep is the Ocean (John Tanman, Theatre at St.Clements); The Full Monty (Ethan, Riverside Theatre); Barcode (Ensemble, The Play Room Theatre); Royal Caribbean International (Guest Entertainer, Royal Caribbean Productions)

Why theater?: My Mom got me involved in theatre at a young age. It’s amazing to be paid to tell an audience a story ever night. That’s why we do what we do, to get across a message and make you leave asking questions.  Everyone needs to leave the reality of everyday life to be entertained and I feel incredibly lucky to be able to give them that entertainment.

Tell us about How Deep Is the Ocean: How deep is the Ocean is an original piece by composer Peter and book writer Pia Cincotti. This is their first musical together and they have an amazing show. It takes place in Monmouth Beach, New Jersey and right from the beginning of the production the conflict begins. The beach is closed because of pollution in the ocean and the town turns to Rob Torino to help Chlorinate the ocean. There is a beautiful love triangle written in the show between long time friend Andy Marino (Aaron Ramey), Rob Torino (Eric Leviton) and his wife Jackie( Michelle Federer). The music drives the show from start to finish with an amazing book that works like a movie. Don’t miss out on this fun roller coaster! There’s even a surprise celebrity cameo appearance every single night!

What is it like being a part of How Deep is the Ocean?: I started working on this project after I returned from doing The Full Monty in Florida. I was contacted by my Agency and asked to be a part of a reading of How Deep is the Ocean by the same casting company that cast me in Monty. I researched well… googled the project and Peter Cincotti's music caught my ear so I signed on. From the first rehearsal I was hooked and in love with the score and cast and creative team. Now here we are doing a fully staged and elaborate production of the show. The cast is incredible to work with and I feel so lucky to be a part of such an original piece. It’s the best thing in the world when we get to create as actors

What kind of theater speaks to you? What or who inspires you as an artist?: All theatre speaks to me, anything that can take me on a journey outside of my everyday life. I’m inspired by many vocalist and artist whose performances have touched me and inspired me to work as hard as I possibly can to achieve my goals. If I had to pick one person it would be Hugh Jackman..

Any roles you’re dying to play?: Drew in Rock of Ages, Gabe in N2N

What’s your favorite showtune?: Anything John Raitt is singing, all day all night love the classics. Love contemporary musical theatre as well. “I’m Alive” from N2N gets played a lot on the ipod.

If you could work with anyone you’ve yet to work with, who would it be?: Would love to have the opportunity to work opposite Laura Osnes. I think she’s a fantastic rising talent.

Who would play you in a movie about yourself and what would it be called?: Chris Evans (Because I’m told I look like him) - “The guy who always finds himself shirtless in a show!”

What show have you recommended to your friends?: Dogfight! Go see it! It’s fantastic

What’s the best advice you can give someone trying to make it in theater?: Make sure you’ve got all the tools you need to succeed and be well rounded in all aspects of your craft. Don’t ever forget who you are and where you came from because those are two things that should never change. Be patient, with time and persistence everything will line up the way that its suppose to.

What’s up next?: I have one gig lined up in September that’s yet to be announced… I can’t say much but please do follow me on www.anthonyfesta.net

Shameless Plug: The Illusory Adventures of a Dreamer

PTP/NYC After Dark presents a reading of The Illusory Adventures of a Dreamer by Michael Bradley, directed by Charles Giardina, on Thursday, July 19th at 10:00pm at Atlantic Stage 2 (330 West 16th St.). Admission is FREE. The Illusory Adventures of a Dreamer  is a new twist on the Ibsen classic, Peer Gynt. In this story, Peer is transported to 21st century America as he goes on a journey of self-exploration inside his mind. The reading will feature Adam Milano, John Edgar Moser, Preston Maguire, Michael J. Berry, Chris Giordano, Christo Grabowski, Meghan Leathers, and Molly O'Keefe with stage directions read by Gillian Durkee. Perhaps I'm biased, but it's going to be a fantastic night of theater! Come check it out!

Spotlight On...Jeanne LaSala Taylor

Name: Jeanne LaSala Taylor

Hometown: Pelham, New York

Education:  MFA in Acting, UC Irvine; BA with Distinction from the University of Virginia... Wahoowa!

Select Credits: Serious Money (Jacinta Condor, PTP at Atlantic Stage 2)
Spoiled Bea (Beatrice, Abingdon Theatre, written, choreographed by me, produced by my company Coyote REP); No End of Blame (Ilona, PTP at Atlantic Stage 2 and Olney Theatre)

Why theater?: It's always been the best way to synthesize all of the things I love: literature, language, performance, dance, music, poetry, history and research on other cultures, people and places.  And damnit, it's fun!

What is it like being a part of Serious Money?: It's been a wonderful adventure.  This is my 5th time working with PTP but my first time being directed by Cheryl Faraone.  It's great to be back and to be working with such a terrific cast.  This has been a bear of a play; just getting our brains around the financial lingo and "the deal" made me feel like I had unwittingly signed up for a three-week Business School.  It was a new and exciting dose of No-doze! But once it started to spark that part of my brain that has been sitting there like a car on blocks in the front lawn, I've been amazed reading the papers each day and seeing our play play out in real time with everything going on in our financial markets.  And Jacinta is just so much fun.  Getting to bring my love of movement and dialects to this production as well as channeling my inner Latina has been a real pleasure.

What kind of theater speaks to you? What or who inspires you as an artist?: This is a question for a bottle of wine... or six.  To take a stab, I love anything that pushes me out of my comfort zone, that makes me dream and makes me move.  I'm inspired by complete commitment, raucous energy and the Unknown.

Any roles you’re dying to play?: I'd love to play Vanda in Venus in Fur.  That's just the kind of mix of movement and theater that I love!  But I've also been itching for some Pinter.  I've never done any Pinter and I think it's time. Maybe The Lovers?

What’s your favorite showtune?: I'm a sucker for The Fantasticks:  "They Were You".  Gets me every time!  I also love “They Both Reached for the Gun” from Chicago, it's ants in my pants!!

If you could work with anyone you’ve yet to work with, who would it be?: I'd like to work with Jennifer Ehle.  She's an actress I've looked up to since I first saw her about 15 years ago.  I would also really like to be directed by Martin Scorsese.  I would have loved to work with Nora Ephron. 

Who would play you in a movie about yourself and what would it be called?: Marissa Tomei would play me because I've always been told she's my doppelganger, which I take as a high compliment... she's gorgeous and such a great comedic actress.  I think it would be called "The Unlucky One".  I've always been told how unlucky I am (it consistently rained on my birthday for all of my childhood birthday parties, I've been through 2 fires, a mouse infestation, bed bugs, had my car stolen outside my apartment, my wallet stolen on the set of Sex and the City, 3 major car crashes, lice...the list goes on) but I've always felt like a very lucky person.  I guess it's all in how you look at things.  I think it could be a pretty hilarious movie! 

What show have you recommended to your friends?: Serious Money, obviously!  But recently I was telling anyone who would listen to go see Venus in Fur.  What an amazing play and an amazing performance by both actors. 

What’s the best advice you can give someone trying to make it in theater?: Find what makes you happy about this business and do that.  Realize that it's not just going to be acting in front of a camera or on stage every day for the rest of your career so it's up to you to fill in the blanks with soul-enriching work.  Don't make enemies and plan on working very, very hard.  If you don't want to work hard, find something else to do... banking?  :)

What’s up next?: Lunch.

For more on Jeanne, check her out at http://www.imdb.com/name/nm2634452/. For more on Coyote Rep, visit http://www.coyoterep.org/

Spotlight On...Sara Kapner

Name: Sara Kapner

Hometown: New York, New York!

Education: BA in Communications and Media Studies, Fordham University

Select Credits: Hollywood Arms (Broadway); The Diary of Anne Frank (Anne, Delaware Theatre Company); Captain Louie (Amy, York Theatre/The Little Shubert Theatre); Children's Letters to God (Joanna, Lambs Theatre)

Why theater?: It's the only career that makes me feel fulfilled and happy. Nothing moves me as much as a good piece of theatre.

Tell us about Trouble: Trouble is a fun rock musical, as well as a glimpse into the lives of real teenagers with real issues. The score rocks all our faces off, while the story brings us in. Trouble is such a colorful piece of theatre and as honest as a show can be.

What is it like being a part of Trouble?: I feel really fortunate to be a part of this show. Jen is a person who feels things deeply -- and I think any actor can tell you, it is the most exciting kind of person to play. The other actors in this show are flawless. I'm really lucky to be working opposite Justin, he really takes care of his role and is so willing to jump in and help whenever we need it.

What kind of theater speaks to you? What or who inspires you as an artist?: So many different kinds of theatre speak to me. If the production is well done, I will appreciate it and respect it. What inspires me most is seeing people like me on stage doing their thing. I always think, if they can do it, I can do it too!

Any roles you’re dying to play?: My ultimate dream role is Eponine in Les Miz.

What’s your favorite showtune?: This is a tough question -- there are too many. Currently (besides all the music in Trouble) I'm loving the song "Secondary Characters" from title of show! I could listen to Heidi Bleckinstaff sing all day.

If you could work with anyone you’ve yet to work with, who would it be?: Joe Mantello

Who would play you in a movie about yourself and what would it be called?: Christina Ricci, because Carolyn Malfa (our amazing swing) says I look like her!!! And it would be called "I'm the luckiest duck because I get to do what I love everyday and my parents still love me even though i get cranky and complain to them that I'm tired."

What show have you recommended to your friends?: Recently, Peter and the Starcatcher. It's unbelievable.

What’s up next?: Who knows! I'm living in the moment and letting life happen. I can't wait to see how life after college unfolds...so far so good!

Spotlight On...Bekah Brunstetter

Name: Bekah Brunstetter

Hometown: Winston-Salem, NC

Education: BFA UNC Chapel Hill; MFA The New School for Drama

Favorite Credits: OOHRAH! (Atlantic Theater); Be a Good Little Widow (Ars Nova); House of Home (Williamstown Theater Festival)

Why theater?: Theater keeps me connected to other humans, which I love. Writing can be really solitary, and from the moment I started doing plays (badly, in high school). I immediately fell in love with how it forces me to pay attention to the world, and the people inside of it.

What inspired you to write Miss Lilly Gets Boned?: I was inspired by an article that my friend shared with me forever ago about elephants, and how recently, in their native habitats, they’ve been becoming increasingly violent. The elephants felt so human that I couldn’t help but start to match it human story. And so, anthropomorphism!

What kind of theater speaks to you? What or who inspires you as an artist?: I like theater that doesn’t take itself too seriously, but is also quietly profound. I like visual, specific and strange plays that are somehow grounded in reality. I’m really inspired by both the base and incredible things you read in the news, but just as inspired by the things that terrify me.

If you could work with anyone you’ve yet to work with, who would it be?: I would perhaps give a limb to write a musical with Joanna Newsom.

What shows have you recommended to your friends?: I recommend anything by Amy Herzog, Book of Mormon, and Once because I LOVE the music but have yet to afford to be able to like, see it, but I imagine it’s incredible.

Who would play you in a movie about yourself and what would it be called?: Zooey Deschanel stars in “Don’t Call me Quirky: The Bekah Brunstetter Story”

What’s your biggest guilty pleasure?: MOZERELLA STICKS and or an entire bag of Goldfish in bed with, with Hulu.

If you weren’t working in theater, you would be _____?: Something with flowers!

What’s up next?: I’m currently developing plays with The Roundabout, Naked Angels, and EST – hoping to work on a production of one of them soon!

For more on Bekah, visit http://blog.bekahbrunstetter.com/ and www.stu42.com