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2009 Season
Taming of the Shrew a comedy by William Shakespeare directed by Ben Steinfeld In the classic Shakespearean comedy, haughty Petruchio woos the all-too-stubborn Katherine, while her sister Bianca entertains a motley crue of suitors. Steve says, "This battle of the sexes comedy epitomizes witty banter and Ben Steinfeld's use of physical comedy will have the audience rolling in the aisles". Big Mary a play by Mark Medoff directed by Ami Formica Based on a true story, a traveling circus visits a small midwest American town. When the star attraction of the circus, an elephant named 'Big Mary', goes out of control, the town demands vengeance. Tim says, "Mark Medoff has created a town and circus full of hilarious personalities. The laughter comes quickly, but when the sorrow of Big Mary's story hits, the audience is sent reeling. A gorgeous, tragi-comedy that leaves a lasting impression". Cupid and Psyche a musical with book and lyrics by Jonathan Karpinos and music by John McGrew directed by Tim Brownell A new rock musical by Jonathan Karpinos (writer of The Averageachievers Club) and singer/songwriter John McGrew (from the band Apollo Run). The god of love and beauty Cupid falls hard for the only mortal to ever pierce his heart: Psyche, but Cupid's maniacal mother Venus and Psyche's envy-starved sisters have other plans for the couple. Tim says: "Jonathan's passion for classic mythology and adventure coupled with John McGrew's contemporary and fiery songwriting create a dream new musical for any actor". Little Me a musical with book by Neil Simon, music and lyrics by Cy Coleman directed by Steve Borowka By contemporary comic playwright Neil Simon (Brighton Beach Memoirs, Lost in Yonkers), this musical introduces us to the hilarious and brave heroine Belle Schlumpfert. In order to win the boy of her dreams, Belle traverses the worlds of high society, the film industry, and foreign affairs, encountering wacky new characters at every turn. Steve says, "This lesser known musical swept the Tony awards in 1998, with a rocking score, hysterical characters, and a poignant, lasting story". His Dark Materials a play based on the novels of Philip Pullman, adapted by Nicholas Wright directed by Steve Borowka Nicholas Wright weaves into a single evening of theater, Philip Pullman's trilogy of The Golden Compass, The Amber Spyglass and The Subtle Knife. In this sophisticated fantasy thriller, worlds collide as Lyra struggles to save humanity from evil forces. Steve says, "I never believed this epic trilogy could turn into a stage play, but when I read the adaptation I knew I had to direct it. I am frightened and exhilirated to tackle this adventure story that is so beloved". Comedy of Errors a play by William Shakespeare directed by Tara Giordano Identical twin sons, separated from each other in shipwreck, travel in search of their lost family, in this Shakespearean comedy of mistaken identities, hilarious situations, romance and adventure. Steve says: "We are thrilled to present a Shakespearean comedy that may be less known by our audiences and campers, despite its comedic excellence and multitude of dynamic roles". Arabian Nights an ensemble play adapted by Dominic Cooke directed by Cal Shook Master storyteller Scherezade tells a new tale every night to stave off execution at the hands of her husband, the bitter Emperor of Arabia. Tim says: "This adaptation takes a great story and gives it contemporary appeal - the characters experience all the highs and lows of the human experience. The ensemble will be constantly in motion as they transform our space into the magical world of Arabian Nights". Once on this Island a musical with book and lyrics by Lynn Ahrens and music by Stephen Flaherty directed by Tim Brownell In this Carribean fairy tale, love is put to the test by the gods, who bet that a poor peasant cannot win the heart of a wealthy nobleman. Tim says, "This tale of hope, the power of storyelling and love is one I've wanted to do for ages!" Pippin a musical with music and lyrics by Stephen Schwartz and book by Roger Hirson directed by Meg Sturiano From the composer of Wicked, Stephen Schwartz brings us the tale of a young boy's journey of self discovery. Pippin's score includes hits like Corner of the Sky, Magic to Do, and No Time At All. Steve and Tim say: "We are certain our campers and audiences alike will take delight in this musical comedy romance. This was an easy choice to round out our most ambitious and exciting season yet". |
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Winter Office • Acting Manitou • 160 Hopper Ave • Waldwick, NJ • 07463 • 201.857.5208• mailbox@actingmanitou.com
Summer Address • Acting Manitou • 7 East Pond Rd • Oakland, ME • 04963 • 207.465.3695