Sold out show?

Thanks to those that entered the poll on which show would sell out first. All of the matinees prior to Christmas are filling quickly. We still have seating at all of the shows (for now), so don't wait--buy your tickets now.

Treat Yourself After the Show

It's always nice to have a special treat after going to the theater. Whether I had played in the orchestra or just attended a show, going out to Bumbleberrys (think purple 70's decor) for pie and ice cream was a great way to conclude the evening. Eating out for dessert was a big deal.

In Placerville, one option that is worth considering is Whistle Stop Yogurt. Their flavors change from day to day so there's always something new to try. If you want to see the flavors for the day, check out their calendar. My favorite topping is hot fudge, which sounds kind of boring, but is very good. In December, look for the ad in the program and bring your ticket in for the discount.

Happy Thanksgiving from IT!

Upcoming Theater Workshops

More details will follow shortly, but Imagination Theater! will be offering two workshops, one for adults and one for kids 13 and up. Participants will receive hands on experience helping build the set for our spring production, The Foreigner.

Set Design Workshop (adults) January and February 2010

• January 5, 7-9 p.m.
• January 7, 7-9 p.m.
• January 20, 7-9 p.m.
• February 3, 7-9 p.m.
• February 18, 7-9 p.m.

Kids' Tool Workshop (Middle Schoolers/Age 11+)

• Monday, February 8, 6:30 - 9:00 p.m.
• Saturday, February 13, 9:00 - 2:00 p.m.

Rendezvous at Imagination Theater!

Rehearsals are happening almost nightly for Beauty and the Beast. Pictured is Talia Vlaovich, Chris Weston, and Natalie Lytle.

"Girls. . .I'm just getting married. Don't tell me a little thing like that's going to change your feelings for me?"

--Gaston


Tickets are selling briskly. Get them by phone at 530-642-0404. You might even catch the IT! Insider in the evening in the box office.

Who Ya Gonna Call. . .IT!

Some people are wary about leaving a message on the IT! voice mail box. They may be wondering who will receive the message and if we will get the information. Let me assure you that we listen to the message, gather the information, and respond as quickly as possible. Here are a few pointers when calling for tickets.

1 - Give your name and phone number (clearly)

2- The date and time of the show you are interested in

3- The number of tickets (and if you know how many Adult, Senior, or Child even better!)

Adult $17
Senior (55+) $14
Child $10
Groups 10+ are $13, Groups 20+ are $12

4- Best time to call back, or alternate phone number

If you know of people who are interested in seeing Beauty and the Beast, encourage them to buy their tickets soon. Currently, most people are able to get the seats of their choice. Ticket sales are picking up, so be smart and call early. 530-642-0404

Take our new poll

Though the holidays loom before us, those that responded to our poll felt lighthearted and hospitable like Mrs. Potts and Lumiere.


Our next poll asks which Beauty and the Beast show you think will sell out first. I have not included the show on Saturday, December 12 because a local school district has purchased most of the seating for that evening. Matinees are most popular and we've had quite a number of groups calling for tickets. People also tend to wait to purchase tickets, though this show has surprised me in terms of people calling ahead.

2011 IT! Trip to England, Wales, and Ireland

EF Tours and Lanny Langston are taking travelers from the El Dorado County area to Great Britain, July 27 to August 10 in 2011. Yes, 2011! Now is the time to sign up for this wonderful scenic trip to the British Isles.

We will be touring London, seeing Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace (with the changing of the guard), some plays in the West End, roaming through Leeds Castle with side trips to Stonehenge and other historic sites. Then we're off to Liverpool for some welsh hospitality where we will visit where the Beatles became famous, Strawberry Fields, Penny Lane, and the waterfront district. Three days later, we'll go by ferry to Dublin, Ireland to see many sites of the city and surrounding areas. Next, we'll head south to Cork and spend three glorious days in the Irish Countryside visiting castles, ancient ruins, kiss the Blarney Stone at Blarney Castle and more. Finally, we'll head back to Dublin for some shopping before we leave the next day for home.

The trip costs approximately $4,200 per person which includes round trip airfare and airport transfers, all transfers to and from the hotels and destinations between cities, all overnight accommodations in first class, superior tourist class, high quality hotels with private bathrooms, continental breakfast daily, dinner on days 2 and 14, full time services of a tour director, and entrance fees to many of the scheduled sites such as Leeds Castle, St. Patrick's Cathedral, Book of Kells, Queenstown Story Museum, Cohn, Blarney Castle, and much more. All with guides and free days to roam as well. If you are interested in finding out more about the trip, give Lanny Langston a call at 530-903-6361.

Thursday Night is the $10 Ticket

Feeling the pinch in your wallet? In response to the times, Imagination Theater! is offering two Thursday Night shows at $10 a ticket for all seats.

Thursday, December 10 at 7:00 p.m. - Community Night
Thursday, December 17 at 7:00 p.m. - Student Night

Normally seats sell between $10 (for kids), $14 for seniors, and $17 for adults. These Thursday nights are a great savings for you and is a wonderful way to take advantage of seeing Disney's Beauty and the Beast. On the 17th, the cast and crew remain after the show to meet the audience and for a short question and answer session about the show. If you want to know how many hours rehearsals the cast spent or how the set was designed, bring those questions and don't be shy. You do not need to be "just a student" to attend. The show length is about 2 hours and 20 minutes including intermission. Purchase your seats by contacting the box office at 530-642-0404.

Audition Notice for Two Shows in 2010

The Foreigner (Spring 2010)
(a comedy)

What does a shy Englishman in search of rest do when he visits a fishing lodge in Georgia? In Larry Shue s hilarious farce, Charlie Baker, a proof reader by day and a boring husband by night, adopts the persona of a foreigner who doesn't understand English. When others begin to speak freely around him, he not only becomes privy to secrets both dangerous and frivolous, he also discovers an adventurous extrovert within himself.

Auditions are on Saturday, November 21 at 9 to Noon at the theater
Parts for two women and five men. Also townspeople.
(No parts for children)

Call Backs on Sunday, November 22 from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.
Read through at 7:30 p.m.

Call Lanny for script and additional information: 530-903-6361

Diary of Anne Frank (July 2010)

Auditions on Saturday, December 12 at 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the theater

Parts:

• Anne Frank (13)
• Margo (18)
• Mr. and Mrs. Frank (40s-50s)
• Mr. Kraler (40's)
• Miep Gies (20's)
• Mr. Dussel, Dentist (40-50's)
• Mr. and Mrs. Van Daan (40s)
• Peter (13/14)
• German Soldiers

For details about the characters, please click here.

Call Backs (if needed): December 13 from 6:30 -9:00 p.m. (includes read through)
For additional information, call Lanny at 530-903-6361

Telling Good Stories. . .

IT has brought theatrical presentations to El Dorado County since 1999. IT is an organization that can proudly say it is devoted to tell good stories in an atmosphere of trust, respect, personal growth and challenge.

Photo of Belle (Melanie Wilson) and Beast (Jeremy Carlson) by Pete Barba

Cogsworth says "It's time to buy tickets!"

Wardobe, Cogsworth, and Babette strike a pose.

Photo by Regina Drennan

Behind the scenes of Beauty and the Beast

Dress rehearsals have started for the show. This is the first time that the IT! Insider has been on the production side of the theater. Wow! She is impressed. The cast, crew, and parents have put in a lot of time and energy to bring this story to life. Rehearsals and work days are four to six days a week. Even on the days off. . .you are not really taking the day off! There are items to sew, props to find, issues to solve, people to tell, and tickets to sell. . .

Belle and her groupies!

Pictured: Liam Drennan, Melanie Wilson, and Stephen Esling. Photo by Regina Drennan.

Ooh La La! Beauty and the Beast is coming soon!

Kathleeen Mini as Babette the Feather Duster (photo compliments to Regina Drennan)

Beauty and the Beast Flyer

Click on the image to make it larger. Right click and you can then print, email, or send to a blog. Dates for the show are also listed on another post under Beauty and the Beast should you wish to cut and paste the information. Full size posters are also available at the box office should you want a larger one (this one does not include specific dates however).

Set Construction and Painting

There's still a lot of work to do on the set, props, and costumes for Beauty and the Beast. Set aside some time to help. Come for a few hours and wear work clothes and shoes. All abilities appreciated, tool-savvy help needed! The majority of set painting will be in November. If you have not volunteered before and are not part of the cast or crew, contact the theater box office (530-642-0404) and we'll find a place for you to help based on your interests and/or experience.

Saturday 10/24, 9:00 a.m. to noon
Sunday 10/25, 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Monday 10/26, 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Saturday 10/31, 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Saturday 11/7, 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Sunday 11/8, 10:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Saturday 11/14, 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Beauty and Beast Program Advertising

If you are interested in reaching a select audience of those who will be attending Disney's Beauty and the Beast this holiday season, contact the theater. Your ad could reach 3,000 people in our community. We will begin putting together the program soon and your ad could be in it.

Business Card size ads are $45.00

Half Page ads are $100.00

Full Page ads are $200.00

All ads will be in black and white. We need your ad in jpeg format emailed to us itplacerville@yahoo.com by Friday, November 6.

Make it Local, Make it Personal, Make IT! your advertising destination this December.

Beauty and the Beast Opens December 4th

Belle, dissatisfied with life in her small provincial French town, constantly tries to fend off the misplaced "affections" of conceited Gaston. The Beast is a prince who was placed under a spell because he could not love. A wrong turn taken by Maurice, Belle's father, causes the two to meet. The show runs December 4-27, 2009. Tickets $10-17

Friday, December 4 - 7:00 p.m. – Great seats available
Saturday, December 5 – 2:00 p.m. – Riser seats available, some floor

Thursday, December 10 – 7:00 p.m. – Great seats available
Friday, December 11 – 7:00 p.m. – Riser seats available
Saturday, December 12 – 7:00 p.m. – Great seats available
Sunday, December 13 – 2:00 p.m. – Side and back riser seats available

Thursday, December 17 – 7:00 p.m. – Great seats available
Friday, December 18 – 7:00 p.m. – Great seats available
Saturday, December 19 – 2:00 p.m. & 7:00 p.m. – Great seats available (both shows)
Sunday, December 20 – 2:00 p.m. – Riser seats available, side floor

Saturday, December 26 – 2:00 p.m. & 7:00 p.m. – Great seats available
Sunday, December 27 - 2:00 p.m. – Great seats available

As always, we can accommodate our guests with wheelchairs for our floor seating. Tickets: $17 Adult, $14 Senior, $10 Child, Group 10+ $13, Group 20+ $12

Imagination Theater Seating Chart

As you may already know, there is not a bad seat in the house. However, I suggest purchasing your tickets soon to get your favorite seats.

For the person that has everything. . .

Give the gift of live theater to that hard-to-shop-for person. A gift certificate can purchased for our upcoming show, Disney's Beauty and the Beast, or for our 2010 Season. Think outside the gift box. Spend time and build memories with your family and friends. Contact the theater for to surprise that special person. 530-642-0404

He Sings Too!

Chris Weston, who made the front page of the Mt. Democrat this week, coordinating flu shots in the community, will soon be be seen as Gaston in Beauty and the Beast.

By the way, the cast has a friendly competition for ticket sales. . .and the current leader is none other than. . .
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Storage Needed

El Dorado High School has generously offered Imagination Theater 75 theater seats. We need a place to store them. If you have a place, please contact the theater at 530-642-0404.

Welcome the Rain

Summer is officially over after this past weekend. Now that we are thinking of fall leaves, pumpkins, and the upcoming holidays--get your friends and family together and come see Disney's Beauty and the Beast.

Beauty and the Beast Update

Belle, dissatisfied with life in her small provincial French town, constantly tries to fend off the misplaced "affections" of conceited Gaston. The Beast is a prince who was placed under a spell because he could not love. A wrong turn taken by Maurice, Belle's father, causes the two to meet. The show runs December 4-27, 2009. Tickets $10-17

Sponsors- Don’t forget to reserve your seats for this show! 530-642-0404

Groups - Don’t wait to get your tickets for this wonderful show. If you have a group, get your tickets now. Group tickets are $13 for 10-19 people, and $12 for 20 or more. For family favorites like this one, matinees tend to sell quickly and are at 2:00 p.m. on the following dates: December 5, 13, 19, 20, 26 and 27. For a full list of dates, go to the theater website or blog.

Ushers – IT! is looking for additional ushers for this show. If you are interested in helping and wish to be added to our usher list, please contact the theater by phone (530) 642-0404 or email (itplacerville@yahoo.com). Ushers receive a complimentary ticket.

Top Beauty and Beast Ticket Seller as of October 1

53 tickets sales have been credited toward Samantha Garaygay as of October 1. Congratulations! I know those girl scout troops will enjoy the show.

Tuna's on a Roll!

Extra! Extra!

It's the last weekend of Greater Tuna. If you haven't seen it, get your tickets and go. Four shows in three days!

Friday, October 2 at 7:00 p.m.
Saturday, October 3 at 2:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m.
Sunday, October 4 at 2:00 p.m.

New Pianist Discovered

15 Million Views and counting on this video. Who knew that a piano playing kitty could be so popular? Maybe IT! should consider this for a show opener.

Tuna Salad

The Reverend Spikes commends you to come to one of the shows this upcoming weekend.

The sheriff says he might have to get rough with you if you don't get your tickets now.

Upcoming shows this weekend are:
Friday, September 25 at 7:00 p.m.
Saturday, September 26 at 2:00 p.m.
Sunday, September 27 at 2:00 p.m.

Git on down the the theater before it's too late! 530-642-0404

Congratulations Elly Award Winners!

Two awards for this year’s Ellys went to Terri Thomas for Costume Design and Dave Patrick for his Lighting Design in The Wizard of Oz. Lanny Langston and Peter Wolfe are appreciative of their commitment and countless hours making the shows at IT! a success.

Terri Thomas says, “Thanks to everyone who worked so hard on all of the costumes with me! You rock!” Terri has worked on several shows including Lil’ Abner and the film portion of Bram Stoker’s Dracula. Currently, she is busy with costumes for Disney’s Beauty and the Beast opening December 4. Most recently, Dave Patrick designed lighting for the current production, Greater Tuna.

The Elly Awards are named for the late Eleanor McClatchy, who was a devoted patron of the local arts. This year marks the 27th anniversary of the awards.

Imagination Theater Receives Two Elly Nominations

The Elly Awards, sponsored by the Sacramento Area Regional Theatre Alliance (SARTA), will be held on Sunday, September 20 at Sacramento’s Crest Theatre.

Two nominations for this year’s awards go to local community theater, Imagination Theater in Placerville. Terri Thomas was nominated for Costume Design for her work in The Wizard of Oz. When learning of her nomination, she said, “I am really honored to have been nominated. Thank you to all the ladies that helped me with costumes. The nomination is yours as well.” Terri has worked on several shows including Lil’ Abner and the film portion of the multi-media production of Bram Stoker’s Dracula (scheduled for spring 2010). Currently, she is busy with Disney’s Beauty and the Beast which opens December 4. Another Imagination Theater volunteer, Dave Patrick, was also honored with a nomination for his lighting in The Wizard of Oz. In addition, he has designed lighting for Greater Tuna, Imagination Theater’s current production that runs through October 4.

The Elly Awards are named for the late Eleanor McClatchy, who was a devoted patron of the local arts. This year marks the 27th anniversary and will feature musical selections performed by Elly-nominated theaters. The Elly Awards honors the best and brightest in local and regional community theatre. Local actors, designers and directors will announce the names of over 80 winners. Tickets are on sale now. General admission is $25; SARTA members and groups of 10 or more are $20; Nominees are $8. Call the office for additional information at (916) 443-8229 or visit the web site at www.sarta.com to purchase tickets online.

Tuna Surprise

Actually, it comes at no surprise that Greater Tuna has been well received by opening weekend audiences. Standing ovations concluded each of the shows and the phones have been ringing at the Imagination Theater box office.


People are not falling asleep at the show (besides Vera Carp, played by Jeff Lathrop)

They are cheering like Charlene Bumiller! (also played by Jeff Lathrop)

Don't miss out on the upcoming shows this week/weekend.

Thursday, September 17 at 7:00 p.m. --- ALL tickets $10 for this show only!
Friday, September 18 at 7:00 p.m.
Saturday, September 19 at 2:00 p.m.
Sunday, September 29 at 2:00 p.m.

Call the box office today for tickets, 530-642-0404

Box Office Hours Update

The theater box office hours are still limited until later in the fall. The hours are:

Monday: 10:00 a.m. to Noon

Tuesday: 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

and
Thursday: Noon to 2:00 p.m.

The IT! Insider will also be available during a few "unscheduled" evenings as well to assist those interested in purchasing tickets for Greater Tuna and Beauty and the Beast. When calling the box office, please leave name, number(s), and best time to reach you. Also indicate date of show and number of tickets. Thanks! 530-642-0404

Tuna opens Friday

Don't miss Greater Tuna, a zany redneck Texas comedy. The show opens Friday at 7:00 p.m.. Tickets can be purchased in advance or at the door.

Two seasoned acting veterans, Richard Gaylord and Jeff Lathrop, take on twenty characters between them, with unique personalities and costume changes – some in as little as nine seconds. The show opens this Friday and runs through October 4. Call the box office for tickets. Tickets will also be avaialble at the door. $16 adult, $13 senior (55+), and $10 children. Thursday, September 17 all seats are $10. Show is suggested for teens and adults. Show dates are listed at here at www.itplacerville.blogspot.com, www.imagination-theater.org and also in Facebook under the Greater Tuna event listing for Imagination Theater. We hope to see you at one of the shows 530-642-0404.

Tuna Melt

Git yer tickets now for this zany, humorous, off-beat play about fictional Tuna, Texas. Call the box office today at 530-642-0404 for tickets. $16 adult, $13 senior, $10 child.

Texas Plains Painted for Tuna

Today, the scenes were painted for Greater Tuna. Maybe that is why we had a little taste of Texas weather on Saturday. I should have some pictures up soon. If you haven't purchased tickets yet, get them soon. If your a sponsor and have not yet reserved your place, please call the box office at 530-642-0404.

News at the Fairgrounds

The IT! Insider just met one of the crew from CNN who is parked on the fairgrounds for the upcoming press conference this afternoon. He was seeking some kind of travel souvenir from the fairgrounds. Wishing we had some kind of special trinket, I walked him over toward the direction of the fairground office past all of the other media trucks with their giant satellite dishes. He shared with me about the the different media here--locally, from the Bay Area, and nationally. I shared a little bit with him about who we were and that though we are in Placerville, we are not in Placer County. Earlier in the day, I glimpsed a reporter "on the field" submit her report for the midday news. Now if we could only get a little bit of publicity (the good kind, of course) for Imagination Theater, then people would know where to find us.

This is why it's a little bit busy here today. A press conference is scheduled today at 3:00 p.m.

More Tuna

A little more Tuna fun. . .

Greater Tuna opens just a few weeks away!

Imagination Theater! presents the hilarious comedy, Greater Tuna about Texas' third smallest town, where the Lion's Club is too liberal and Patsy Cline never dies. Tuna is redneck America, and it's as clever as it is entertaining. Two actors play each and every one of the characters - a total of 20 in Greater Tuna . . . jumping in and out of dresses or overalls in as little as nine seconds!

Check the dates below and contact the theater for tickets at 530-642-0404.

Friday, September 11, 7:00 p.m.
Saturday, September 12, 7:00 p.m.
Sunday, September 13, 2:00 p.m.

Thursday, September 17, 7:00 p.m.
Friday, September 18, 7:00 p.m.
Saturday, September 19, 2:00 p.m.
Sunday, September 20, 2:00 p.m.

Friday, September 25, 7:00 p.m.
Saturday, September 26, 2:00 p.m.
Sunday, September 27, 2:00 p.m.

Friday, October 2, 7:00 p.m.
Saturday, October 3, 2:00 p.m. & 7:00 p.m.
Sunday, October 4, 2:00 p.m.

Greater Tuna Comes to IT!

Soon, the IT! Insider hopes to get some pictures up of the "local talent" for the upcoming show, Greater Tuna. But until then, this will have to do. . .



This is from another show. . .somewhere in Tuna, Texas. . .

Get yer tickets now at 530-642-0404. We take plastic, we take paper!

Imagination Theater Needs Your Support

Dear Imagination Theater! Supporter,

I encourage you to come to our 2nd Annual Silent and Live Auction Fundraiser, “An Affair to Remember” on Friday, August 21 at 6:00 p.m. The theater has truly been hit hard by the bad economic climate. Your support is needed for this event as the future of Imagination Theater! depends on the success of this fundraiser.

A Tahoe vacation stay, an Ashland weekend (including a play, backstage tour, dinner, and Bed and Breakfast stay), a beautiful hand made quilt, and many more great items and gift baskets donated by local businesses await. Tickets, $20 advance, $25 at the door, can be purchased by calling the box office at 530-642-0404. If you get voicemail, please leave your name, phone number(s), and the best time to reach you. Tickets are also available at The Printing Press at 1331 Broadway in Placerville.

We can’t emphasize enough how important this fundraiser is to keep Imagination Theater providing live theater in our community. Don’t wait! Purchase your tickets now for this fun filled evening.

Lanny Langston

Greater Tuna - It's a play, not a casserole!

If you want to more about Greater Tuna, check out this video clip below. Our Tuna is not the national touring show, but the down home, right in our backyard, local talent of Placerville. Check out this zany, off the wall comedy. Tickets are available now. 530-642-0404

Facebook | Imagination Theater!

If you haven't found us on Facebook. Join us today.

Facebook Imagination Theater!

Beauty and the Beast Dates

Tickets are now on sale for Disney's Beauty and the Beast. Purchase your tickets early for the best seats. Invite some friends and get a group discount! Contact the box office at 530-642-0404.

Tickets: $17 Adult, $14 Senior, $10 Child, Group 10+ $13, Group 20+ $12

Friday, December 4 - 7:00 p.m.
Saturday, December 5 – 2:00 p.m.

Thursday, December 10 – 7:00 p.m.
Friday, December 11 – 7:00 p.m.
Saturday, December 12 – 7:00 p.m.
Sunday, December 13 – 2:00 p.m.

Thursday, December 17 – 7:00 p.m.
Friday, December 18 – 7:00 p.m.
Saturday, December 19 – 2:00 p.m. & 7:00 p.m.
Sunday, December 20 – 2:00 p.m.
Monday, December 21 – 7:00 p.m.

Saturday, December 26 – 2:00 p.m. & 7:00 p.m.
Sunday, December 27 - 2:00 p.m.

Intermediate Acting Workshop Presentation

During the next two weeks, students will be participating in the Intermediate Acting Workshop. A performance is planned for Thursday evening, August 6 at 7:00 p.m.. Mark your calendars now and plan to join us for this free event. Scenes from Annie and Peter Pan will be presented.

African thunderstorm

Mrs. Potts (from Beauty and the Beast) shared this with me today. It takes awhile for the "storm" to arrive, but it is worth the wait.

African thunderstorm

Shared via AddThis

Updated Summer Hours

The theater has re-opened following the fair. The hours are currently limited. If you need to stop by the theater, please call in advance to arrange a time: 530-642-0404. We can also be reached by email at ITPlacerville@yahoo.com. If you are interested in purchasing tickets, please leave your name, phone, and best time to reach you--and we will call you back. Tickets are available for As Always, Jimmy Stewart, An Affair to Remember (Fundraiser), and Greater Tuna. Tickets for Beauty and the Beast will be available on August 1.

Don't make the guitar player mad!

A friend of mine sent this to me--clever and a clear way to get your message heard. 1.6 million views and counting.

R.I.P. Man in the Mirror

I'm Starting With The Man In The Mirror
I'm Asking Him To Change His Ways
And No Message Could Have
Been Any Clearer
If You Wanna Make The World
A Better Place
(If You Wanna Make The
World A Better Place)
Take A Look At Yourself, And
Then Make A Change
(Take A Look At Yourself, And
Then Make A Change)
(Na Na Na, Na Na Na, Na Na, Na Nah)

--Siedah Garrett and Glen Ballard

IT! Night and More Info on Pippin at EDHS

InnerArts of El Dorado High School is presenting Stephen Schwartz’s “Pippin” this summer, opening July 1st.

July 11 is "IT! Night" and discounted tickets can be purchased at the door only, and mentioning that you are with IT! If you don't wish to wait (or want to see it twice), tickets are reasonably priced and available online and at the door.

Elly award winning director, Paul Tomei, is producing a summer play with students from 4 different high schools. The InnerArts program’s goal is to promote collaboration and cooperation between the various high schools and to have fun during the summer. The cast of "Pippin" by “Wicked” composer, Stephen Schwartz, is made up of students from El Dorado, Oak Ridge, Union Mine and St. Francis high schools. It is being choreographed by Elly winner, Beverly Stewart and music directed by yet another Elly winner and current high school senior, David Taylor. There are several Elly nominees in the cast as well. Once upon a time, the young prince Pippin longed to discover the secret of true happiness and fulfillment. He sought it in the glories of the battlefield, the temptations and the intrigues of political power (after disposing of his father King Charlemagne the Great). In the end, he found it in the simple pleasures of home and family.

This hip, tongue-in-cheek, anachronistic fairy tale captivated Broadway audiences and continues to appeal to the young at heart everywhere The energetic pop-influenced score by three-time Oscar®-winning composer/lyricist Stephen Schwartz (“Godspell,” “Children of Eden” and the animated films “Pocahontas,” “The Hunchback Of Notre Dame” and “The Prince Of Egypt”) bursts with one showstopping number after another, from soaring ballads to infectious dance numbers.Pop / Rock, Rated PG The show opens on July 1st at the Carl Borelli amphitheater in Placerville at El Dorado High, 561 Canal Street, and runs July 1, 2 ,3, 7, 8 ,9 ,10, 11 at 8pm, gates open at 6:30pm. Tickets are $12 for adults and $10 for students/seniors.

Cast List:

The Leading Player: Ryan Blanning
Pippin : Michael McClellan
Charles : David Taylor
Fastrada: Krista Unverferth
Lewis : Gavin Sellers
Catherine: Shelby Wulfert

Chorus/Dancers

Jillian Sorhweide
Seriah Highley
McKenzie Weinhold
Hannah Mahoney
Alyssa Sota
Joslin Schultz
Suzanne Lewis
Arianna Woicekowski
Madelyn Frey
Taylor Flanagan
Leslie McKinney

Announcing the Fall Comedy - Greater Tuna

In September and October, Imagination Theater! presents the comedy, Greater Tuna. The show will run Friday, September 11 through Sunday, October 4.

Greater Tuna is the hilarious comedy about Texas' third smallest town, where the Lion's Club is too liberal and Patsy Cline never dies. Tuna is redneck America, and it's as clever as it is entertaining. Two actors play each and every one of the characters - a total of 20 in Greater Tuna . . . jumping in and out of dresses or overalls in as little as nine seconds.

The play is set in Tuna, a mythical small town in West Texas, where everyone listens to Radio OKKK, all 275 watts of it. Topping the headlines is the winning entry in the American Heritage Essay Contest, entitled: "Human Rights, Why Bother?" Tuna's residents include a variety of eccentrics, bigots, and oddballs. There's Aunt Pearl, who poisons the town's stray dogs; Vera Carp, the richest woman in town and vice president of the Smut Snatchers club, and Didi Snavely, a gun shop owner, who decorates her Christmas tree with hand grenades.

You won't want to miss this off beat comedy. Tickets will go on sale in July.

Pippin comes to EDHS this summer!

Click on image to enlarge.

Memorial Day Remembrance

Formerly known as Decoration Day, Memorial Day commemorates U.S. men and women who died while in the military service. First enacted to honor Union soldiers of the American Civil War, it was expanded after World War I to include American casualties of any war or military action.

National Memorial Concert on PBS - Sunday, May 24
Memorial Day History
Military Family Support Group of El Dorado County

Everyone Loves a Good Story

Little House on the Prairie was one of my favorite television programs as a child. During the IT! Insider's Box Office hiatus, I am enjoying a DVD collection of episodes with my kids. Reflecting on some of the stories we have watched, I've been thinking a lot about what makes this show so. . .well. . .comforting.

I think one of the reasons has to do with our mission that says:

"The mission of Imagination Theater is to tell good stories well in an atmosphere of Trust, Respect, Personal Growth, and Challenge."

Everyone loves a good story and Little House on the Prairie delivers! This link below takes you through the episodes we are currently watching. I have especially enjoyed "The Richest Man in Walnut Grove" and "Haunted House" so far. Despite its' predictable storyline, my daughter cried watching the latter as it touched her heart. Afterward, she shared an interesting perspective about the story that would not have crossed my mind. Deep thinker, that girl!

Take a some time to watch one of the stories (hey! no commercials!) and find your favorite episode. You can scroll through the Season 2 Playlist here, or make a more general search on You Tube--or find it on cable television.

Disclaimer: Some of the actors are very believable in their roles and some of them are just so 70's like the music!

Tight Times Loosen Creativity

Here is an interesting article from the New York Times about creativity and the arts in light of today's economic situation.

I'm a fan of Mrs. Darbus!

The IT! Insider has been spending time recovering from dental work while the theater is closed for the fair. I have enjoyed slowing down and taking the time to watch some old movie favorites-- and a few newer ones that I have wanted to see. We borrowed High School Musical 3 from the library and escaped to a high school environment that doesn't exist. This time around, I couldn't help but notice that Mrs. Darbus had a much bigger role. She is probably the only grown up with a significant presence in the movie. Most adult roles in HSM are like the Peanuts cartoons with the "waa, waa, waa" sound for the parents. I've been trying to find online Mrs. Darbus' advice to Troy (after he has flashdanced his way around the unlocked campus), but I have yet to find it. You know you're getting older when you can relate more to the wise counsel of the teacher than the angst of the teen. Below is an interview with "Mrs. Darbus" a.k.a. Alyson Reed.




Ever wonder about Ms. Darbus from "High School Musical"? Veteran actress Alyson Reed plays the part. The Modesto Bee's Teens in the Newsroom writer, Amelia Varni, an actress herself, recently interviewed Reed about the phenomenon that is "High School Musical." Here's what she had to say.


Q: When you first auditioned, what did you imagine "HSM" would turn out to be? Just another Disney Channel movie? Did you ever expect it to get so popular?
A: Well, I liked the role very much. I thought that it would be a very sweet movie. But it wasn't until we had our very first read-through with the cast, when we read our lines and the kids sang through the songs for the first time, that I talked to Kenny Ortega (the director) and said that this would be the next generation's "Grease." I could just feel it.


Q: How long did it take to film "High School Musical 3"?
A: Nine weeks, April through June.


Q: How is it different from the first two "High School Musical" movies?
A: I think it's just more. The numbers are bigger. The scenes are more developed. The colors are brighter. The sets are bigger. The costumes are incredible.


Q: Your role as Ms. Darbus is much bigger in HSM3. How has your character grown since the first "HSM"?
A: I didn't expect to be in "HSM2" because the setting was during summer vacation, so I was surprised that my character was even in the script. In "HSM3," I do the same thing that I did in the first "HSM," but in this one, I have a lovely scene with Zac (Efron) where I encourage him to choose his future role in life.


Q: Do you sing in this movie?
A: I do not sing in any of the movies. However, I was going to sing a song with the kids in "HSM3" -- I believe it was called "Stay in the Moment" -- where I was teaching them theater improv. But it was very "iffy." Kenny wasn't sure it was going to happen. We took it out of the script a few days before filming.


Q: What are the cast members like on the set? Do they get along? Have you become close with any of the cast?
A: Oh, everybody gets along very well. I feel like the proud auntie of all of them. I have spoken to Corbin (Bleu) and Monique (Coleman) since the film opened. But they're all great and I'm very proud of them.


Q: How was it working with Kenny Ortega?
A: Kenny is a genius. He really set the tone of this movie and let everyone be encouraging and spontaneous while on the set. He's a great director. He even let us come up with our own ideas for the film.


Q: There have been a lot of rumors about a "High School Musical 4." Does the cast plan on coming back and filming another movie together?
A: I don't know. I know that they're writing another "HSM" and I know that it will be with the three new characters. But I don't know any more. It's all a big secret.


Q: Were you interested in theater and film while growing up?
A: Yes. I started ballet when I was 4 years old and theater when I was 7. I participated in community theater and I would do three or four shows a year. I became a professional dancer at the age of 12, but I would not work during the school year. I only worked during summer vacations and other breaks. I'm against child professional acting. I think that it is best to participate in community theater and school plays.


Q: How did you get into acting?
A: My parents taught me to read and write before kindergarten, so my teacher suggested that I do outside activities or else I would get bored. So I started ballet when I was young and I started doing community theater and I also sang in the church choir.


Q: You've had a busy career in stage, TV and movies (including roles in TV shows from "Party of Five" to "Eli Stone," playing Cassie in the movie version of "A Chorus Line" and playing Sally Bowles in "Cabaret" on Broadway in 1987-88). Do you have any advice for teens who are interested in acting?
A: Just get some training and enjoy it. These days, too many kids just want to become stars. That was not our goal back then. Our goal was to do good work and to learn our craft. There is a big difference between learning and knowing who you are, then becoming a star.


Q: What was it like being on Broadway?
A: It was a wonder. Performing on Broadway was my goal in my whole life. I never had the desire to do TV or film. Performing on Broadway was a life's dream. I took theater classes in junior high and I would have rehearsal every night. I worked very hard to get there.


Q: How does it differ from local theater?
A: There are more demands, but the same technique and rehearsal process. The days are longer and harder. But there is nothing like a Broadway opening. The whole city stops. It is very fun.

Amelia Varni is a junior at Central Catholic High School and a member of The Bee's Teens in the Newsroom journalism program.

Last Weekend for MacBeth at EDHS

Tickets for “MacBeth” are available online and will also be available at the gate on the day of the performance. No reservations required! The remaining MacBeth performances, are Friday, May 15 and Saturday, May 16 at 8:00 p.m.

Performed outdoors in the Carl Borelli Community Amphitheater at El Dorado High School, witches, ghosts and murderers populate this stormy landscape in Studio 81s new, edgy and innovative 90 minute production. This is Shakespeare's greatest study in evil; a tale of sound and fury that continues to chill and disturb audiences 400 years after its debut.

Bringing a universal and contemporary style to the text, this version is set on the urban city streets, where youthful lust and ambition has plagued the culture. Incorporating the latest trends in urban fashion, music and modern fight scenes, this bloody tale is sure to please even those with the weakest of stomachs. Recommended for mature audiences Rated PG-13

BBQ dinner available for $10 beginning at 6pm
Tickets are $12 for adults and $10 for students/seniors.
Gates open at 6pm, performance at 8pm.

Dinner is a BBQ of tri-tip sandwich on dutch crunch roll, cole slaw, baked beans, drink and cookie or chips for only $10. A vegetarian option of grilled vegetables with (or without) cheese is also available. All proceeds support Studio 81!

For further information, call 530-333-7168 or email studio81tickets@gmail.com

Dracula Trailer

If you want a little taste of Dracula, but were afraid to ask. . .

Dracula teaser trailer #1 from Porter Media Group on Vimeo.

Beauty and the Beast - Happy Endings

Who doesn't like a happy ending. . .

Beauty-ful Music

Two dramatic selections told with music only. . .

NY Times Article about Holland

Here is an article comparing life in the United States and Holland. Although it is long and has nothing to do with theater, it is very interesting. It is an interesting glimpse about living in another country, another culture.

NY Times article about life in The Netherlands

Beauty and the Beast Music - Day 4

Another day. . .of beautiful music from Beauty and the Beast.

Beauty and Beast Music - Day 3

Okay, I'm having too much fun with this. . .