Excitement and fun is in the air with Grease opening in two weeks! Get your tickets soon. Talk with your family at Thanksgiving and plan on a date to come and enjoy a talented bunch of kids and adults alike! Bring back some of that Summer Lovin' on a cold winter's day. Tickets are available online (preferred), by phone at 530-642-0404.
Saturday, November 20, 2010
Grease Opening Night Only Two Weeks Away
Excitement and fun is in the air with Grease opening in two weeks! Get your tickets soon. Talk with your family at Thanksgiving and plan on a date to come and enjoy a talented bunch of kids and adults alike! Bring back some of that Summer Lovin' on a cold winter's day. Tickets are available online (preferred), by phone at 530-642-0404.
Friday, November 19, 2010
Behind the Scenes of Quilters
Recently, the cast of Quilters got together to read through their parts and get a feel for the stories and lives of the women traveling by wagon train. Tickets go on sale in December.
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
Charlotte's Web Show Dates
Show Opens - Fri, February 4, 2011, 7:00 p.m.
Saturday, February 5, 2011 - 11:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.
Sunday, February 6, 2011 - 11:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.
Thursday, February 10, 2011 - 7:00 p.m.
Friday, February 11, 2011 - 7:00 p.m.
Saturday, February 12, 2011 - 11:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.
Sunday, February 13, 2011 - 11:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.
Saturday, February 5, 2011 - 11:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.
Sunday, February 6, 2011 - 11:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.
Thursday, February 10, 2011 - 7:00 p.m.
Friday, February 11, 2011 - 7:00 p.m.
Saturday, February 12, 2011 - 11:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.
Sunday, February 13, 2011 - 11:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.
Tickets go on sale December 1. All seats are $10.
Tuesday, November 9, 2010
Travel back in time to Mel's Diner November 18
Order a milkshake, burger and fries! The cast of Grease will be performing on Thursday, November 18 at 6:00 p.m. at Mel's Diner in Downtown Placerville. Get a taste of that down home cookin' and some great pre-show entertainment! Grease opens on Friday, December 3 and runs through December 26.
Friday, November 5, 2010
Not Familiar with the Grease Storyline?
In case you aren't familiar with Grease. Here is a synopsis of the story.
Act I
In 1959, Rydell High School's rebellious, happy, thrill-loving students start a new year. The "greasers" are the Burger Palace Boys and the Pink Ladies ("Alma Mater Parody"). In the revival, the play begins with the T-Birds and the Pink Ladies singing, "Grease (is the Word)". The start of the new school year means lousy food ("You want my coleslaw?") and dreaded teachers ("I got Old Lady Lynch for English again. She hates my guts."). The Pink Ladies sit on one side of the lunchroom, and the Burger Palace Boys sit on the other.
There is a new girl at school, Sandy Dumbrowski. She and the leader of the “Burger Palace Boys”, Danny Zuko, had a brief love affair the summer before, but the summer ended for them with unresolved feelings of love. In describing the fling to the Pink Ladies (Jan, Marty, Frenchy, and Betty Rizzo), Sandy focuses on the emotional attachment she and Danny had, while Danny lies to the Boys (Roger, Doody, Sonny, and Kenickie) about the physical aspects of their relationship ("Summer Nights"). Sandy and Danny soon bump into each other at school, and while Sandy is happy to see Danny, he brushes her off, pretending to be too cool. Meanwhile, the kids gather in the hall as Doody, the youngest Burger Palace Boy, shows off his new guitar. Rock star wannabe Doody gives an impromptu concert in the hall ("Those Magic Changes").
At Marty’s pajama party, the girls experiment with wine, cigarettes, and pierced ears, and talk about boys. Marty tells about her long-distance courtship with a Marine ("Freddy, My Love"). Meanwhile, the Burger Palace Boys are busy stealing hubcaps and teasing Kenickie about his new (used) car ("Greased Lightning").
Danny sees Sandy again and tries to apologize for his behavior, but she is hurt to find out that he has told his friends that she is "easy." Head cheerleader Patty Simcox interrupts to prompt Sandy to join the squad and to tease Danny about his latest indiscretions ("Rydell Fight Song"). The kids take their newfangled portable radios for a rock and roll picnic in the park and plan how they will pair off at the upcoming school prom, while Roger shares his love for Jan and his favorite hobby ("Mooning"). Rizzo teases Danny for falling for a girl who resembles the excessively proper teenage ingénue, Sandra Dee ("Look at Me, I'm Sandra Dee"). Sandy realizes that Danny is putting her off to be cool and wishes she had never met him. Then Danny suggests that Marty go out with Eugene, and she chases after him. The kids declare that they will "always be together" and they will always be friends ("We Go Together").
Act II
At the High School Hop, everyone is dancing, except Sandy ("Shakin' At the High School Hop"). She is home feeling sorry for herself ("It's Raining on Prom Night"). Meanwhile the favorite radio DJ of the Burger Palace Boys and the Pink Ladies, Vince Fontaine, is the MC at the dance, which takes place in the gym. He is warming the kids up for the hand-jive dance contest. Kenickie dumps his blind date, Cha-Cha DiGregorio, and pairs off with Rizzo. Danny originally enters the contest with Rizzo, but she instead chooses to dance with Kenickie. Meanwhile, Kenickie pairs Danny up with Cha-Cha despite Danny's protest. He and Cha-Cha then proceed to win the dance contest ("Born to Hand Jive"). In the revival, Sandy hears the news that Danny and Cha-Cha got up close and won. She feels betrayed but she cannot stop thinking about Danny ("Hopelessly Devoted to You").
A few days later at the Burger Palace after school, a couple of the guys run into Frenchy, who flunked out of Rydell and has now dropped out of beauty school since she failed all of her classes ("Beauty School Dropout"). Danny, who has taken up track in order to win back Sandy's affections, does not know that Cha-Cha’s boyfriend’s gang has challenged the guys to a rumble. He is more concerned about patching things up with Sandy at the Twi-Light Drive In, but he moves too fast for her, and she leaves ("All Alone at a Drive-In Movie" [in the musical]; ("Sandy" in the revival)). A couple of days later, the "greasers" are having a party in Jan’s basement, as Doody and Roger sing ("Rock ’n’ Roll Party Queen"). Rizzo is worried that she is pregnant, but she is so mad at Kenickie that she tells him he is not the father. Rizzo rejects the kids' offers of help, especially Sandy's ("There Are Worse Things I Could Do"). Sandy wonders what she needs to do to fit in at Rydell ("Look at Me, I'm Sandra Dee") (Reprise).
The next time Sandy meets up with the Burger Palace Boys and the Pink Ladies, she has transformed herself into a greaser's dream date ("All Choked Up" [in the musical]; ("You're the One That I Want" in the revival). Rizzo reveals that she is not pregnant, and she and Kenickie reunite. All ends happily "We Go Together" (Reprise)
Act I
In 1959, Rydell High School's rebellious, happy, thrill-loving students start a new year. The "greasers" are the Burger Palace Boys and the Pink Ladies ("Alma Mater Parody"). In the revival, the play begins with the T-Birds and the Pink Ladies singing, "Grease (is the Word)". The start of the new school year means lousy food ("You want my coleslaw?") and dreaded teachers ("I got Old Lady Lynch for English again. She hates my guts."). The Pink Ladies sit on one side of the lunchroom, and the Burger Palace Boys sit on the other.
There is a new girl at school, Sandy Dumbrowski. She and the leader of the “Burger Palace Boys”, Danny Zuko, had a brief love affair the summer before, but the summer ended for them with unresolved feelings of love. In describing the fling to the Pink Ladies (Jan, Marty, Frenchy, and Betty Rizzo), Sandy focuses on the emotional attachment she and Danny had, while Danny lies to the Boys (Roger, Doody, Sonny, and Kenickie) about the physical aspects of their relationship ("Summer Nights"). Sandy and Danny soon bump into each other at school, and while Sandy is happy to see Danny, he brushes her off, pretending to be too cool. Meanwhile, the kids gather in the hall as Doody, the youngest Burger Palace Boy, shows off his new guitar. Rock star wannabe Doody gives an impromptu concert in the hall ("Those Magic Changes").
At Marty’s pajama party, the girls experiment with wine, cigarettes, and pierced ears, and talk about boys. Marty tells about her long-distance courtship with a Marine ("Freddy, My Love"). Meanwhile, the Burger Palace Boys are busy stealing hubcaps and teasing Kenickie about his new (used) car ("Greased Lightning").
Danny sees Sandy again and tries to apologize for his behavior, but she is hurt to find out that he has told his friends that she is "easy." Head cheerleader Patty Simcox interrupts to prompt Sandy to join the squad and to tease Danny about his latest indiscretions ("Rydell Fight Song"). The kids take their newfangled portable radios for a rock and roll picnic in the park and plan how they will pair off at the upcoming school prom, while Roger shares his love for Jan and his favorite hobby ("Mooning"). Rizzo teases Danny for falling for a girl who resembles the excessively proper teenage ingénue, Sandra Dee ("Look at Me, I'm Sandra Dee"). Sandy realizes that Danny is putting her off to be cool and wishes she had never met him. Then Danny suggests that Marty go out with Eugene, and she chases after him. The kids declare that they will "always be together" and they will always be friends ("We Go Together").
Act II
At the High School Hop, everyone is dancing, except Sandy ("Shakin' At the High School Hop"). She is home feeling sorry for herself ("It's Raining on Prom Night"). Meanwhile the favorite radio DJ of the Burger Palace Boys and the Pink Ladies, Vince Fontaine, is the MC at the dance, which takes place in the gym. He is warming the kids up for the hand-jive dance contest. Kenickie dumps his blind date, Cha-Cha DiGregorio, and pairs off with Rizzo. Danny originally enters the contest with Rizzo, but she instead chooses to dance with Kenickie. Meanwhile, Kenickie pairs Danny up with Cha-Cha despite Danny's protest. He and Cha-Cha then proceed to win the dance contest ("Born to Hand Jive"). In the revival, Sandy hears the news that Danny and Cha-Cha got up close and won. She feels betrayed but she cannot stop thinking about Danny ("Hopelessly Devoted to You").
A few days later at the Burger Palace after school, a couple of the guys run into Frenchy, who flunked out of Rydell and has now dropped out of beauty school since she failed all of her classes ("Beauty School Dropout"). Danny, who has taken up track in order to win back Sandy's affections, does not know that Cha-Cha’s boyfriend’s gang has challenged the guys to a rumble. He is more concerned about patching things up with Sandy at the Twi-Light Drive In, but he moves too fast for her, and she leaves ("All Alone at a Drive-In Movie" [in the musical]; ("Sandy" in the revival)). A couple of days later, the "greasers" are having a party in Jan’s basement, as Doody and Roger sing ("Rock ’n’ Roll Party Queen"). Rizzo is worried that she is pregnant, but she is so mad at Kenickie that she tells him he is not the father. Rizzo rejects the kids' offers of help, especially Sandy's ("There Are Worse Things I Could Do"). Sandy wonders what she needs to do to fit in at Rydell ("Look at Me, I'm Sandra Dee") (Reprise).
The next time Sandy meets up with the Burger Palace Boys and the Pink Ladies, she has transformed herself into a greaser's dream date ("All Choked Up" [in the musical]; ("You're the One That I Want" in the revival). Rizzo reveals that she is not pregnant, and she and Kenickie reunite. All ends happily "We Go Together" (Reprise)
Thursday, November 4, 2010
Smith Flat Charter Presents Arsenic and Old Lace
Arsenic & Old Lace, written by Joseph Kesselring is being performed by Advanced Drama at Smith Flat Charter SchoolDecember
THU 2nd - 7:00PM
FRI 3rd - 7:00PM
SAT 4th - 7:00PM
THU 9th - 7:00PM
FRI 10th - 7:00PM
SAT 11th - 7:00PM
House opens at 6:30 PM. $3 advanced booking, $5 at the door.
530-409-1188 or go to:
www.smithflatdrama.com
Wednesday, November 3, 2010
Grease opens December 3
Some say “the third time is the charm” but so were the first and second! Grease was Placerville’s Imagination Theater’s premier production in 2001 and its first run was so successful they revived it in 2005. Imagination Theater is once again presenting Grease, the musical. Running from December 3 through December 26, 2010, a whole new generation of local young performers will perform this wildly energetic and entertaining show.Originally staged as a five-hour amateur production in a Chicago trolley barn, Grease takes a satirical look at the dress, manners, morals, and music of teenagers at the beginning of the rock and roll era. Written by Jim Jacobs and Warren Casey, the plot revolves primarily around the attraction between greaser Danny Zuko and the virtuous Sandy Dumbrowski. The score attempts to re-create the sounds of early rock and roll and has spawned such musical hits as "Summer Nights," "Greased Lightning," and "Beauty School Dropout."
The musical is named for the 1950s United States working-class youth subculture known as the greasers. Set in 1959 at fictional Rydell High School (loosely based on William Howard Taft School), the show follows ten working-class kids as they navigate the complexities of high school, love, cars, and drive-ins.
Imagination Theater’s new production of Grease is being co-directed by the theater founders, Peter Wolfe and Lanny Langston. Each has directed the show before. Jeremy Carlson, who recently performed the lead role of the Beast in Imagination Theater’s 2009 production of Beauty and the Beast, is the vocal director. Jerri Myers, a veteran of many productions throughout the Sacramento area, is the music and band director. Vanessa Lathrop, owner of Foothill Dance Studios in Shingle Springs, is the choreographer. Local musicians Bryan Heath, Craig Zangari, Mr. Bennett, with director, Peter Wolfe will provide the energetic, live rock and roll music.
Tickets can be purchased at online at www.imagination-theater.org or by contacting the box office at 530-642-0404.
Tuesday, November 2, 2010
Quilters Tickets On Sale December 1
IMAGINATION THEATER in association with Ensemble Theatre Company presents the musical, QUILTERS by Molly Newman and Barbara Damashek
March 25th-April 17th, 2011; Thursdays and Fridays at 7:00 p.m.; Saturdays and Sundays at 2:00 p.m.
A mother and her six daughters tell this popular and moving story of pioneer life, taken from the handwritten diaries of women who helped settle the west. The scenes capture the beauty, ...terror and joy, the harsh challenges and heartfelt rewards of frontier life: girlhood, marriage, childbirth, parties, twisters, fire, illness and death. The music and dances have a country/folk flavor. This musical has been called “a theatrical masterstroke which will linger in the mind and memory long after the houselights have dimmed.”
Director: Chrissie Addison
Vocal/Band Directors: Dale Wallerstein, Jeri Myers
Cast: Georgette Barton, Brenda Lindley, Hannah Mahoney, Matti McKenzie, Holly Salvestrin, Rachel Wessman, Beth Zangari
Tickets: $15.00. On sale December 1, 2010; purchase online at www.it-tickets.org or call the IT box office at 530 642 0404.
March 25th-April 17th, 2011; Thursdays and Fridays at 7:00 p.m.; Saturdays and Sundays at 2:00 p.m.
A mother and her six daughters tell this popular and moving story of pioneer life, taken from the handwritten diaries of women who helped settle the west. The scenes capture the beauty, ...terror and joy, the harsh challenges and heartfelt rewards of frontier life: girlhood, marriage, childbirth, parties, twisters, fire, illness and death. The music and dances have a country/folk flavor. This musical has been called “a theatrical masterstroke which will linger in the mind and memory long after the houselights have dimmed.”
Director: Chrissie Addison
Vocal/Band Directors: Dale Wallerstein, Jeri Myers
Cast: Georgette Barton, Brenda Lindley, Hannah Mahoney, Matti McKenzie, Holly Salvestrin, Rachel Wessman, Beth Zangari
Tickets: $15.00. On sale December 1, 2010; purchase online at www.it-tickets.org or call the IT box office at 530 642 0404.
Monday, November 1, 2010
Grease Dates Flyer
Click on image below to make it bigger! Print this flyer and post at work, at school, your favorite coffee shop, and anywhere else people will see it. Purchase your tickets now for the best seats!
Saturday, October 30, 2010
Don't miss Dracula before he disappears!
If you want to catch Dracula before he disappears, your best chance is Halloween night. We have a handful of tickets remaining for the matinee in the afternoon. So set the candy bowl aside and come to see Dracula before it's too late. Contact the box office at 530-642-0404, go online (see what's left for the last show at http://www.it-tickets.org/).
Wednesday, October 27, 2010
Quilters is cast!
Director Chrissie Addison is happy to announce a great cast for Quilters. Addison says, “We were happy to see some very good auditioners and choosing a cast was difficult. We thank all who came forth with a prepared audition for their time and interest in the show. We welcome new faces to our cast as well as returning actresses.”
The Quilters cast of seven women will start rehearsals in January, but will receive their scripts in October to start preparations for portraying 98 different characters in 16 scenes. The scenes illuminate stories of frontier life – all taken from the trail diaries of the settlers in the 1870s and 80’s.
The cast is as follows:
Sarah – Georgette Barton
Jenny – Elizabeth Zangari
Margaret – Brenda Lindley
Lisa – Holly Salvestrin
Jody – Rachel Wessman
Jane – Mattie McKenzie
Dana – Hannah Mahoney
Quilters will open at Imagination Theater March 24th and run thru April 17th. Follow the threads of this production as we hit the trail!!
The Quilters cast of seven women will start rehearsals in January, but will receive their scripts in October to start preparations for portraying 98 different characters in 16 scenes. The scenes illuminate stories of frontier life – all taken from the trail diaries of the settlers in the 1870s and 80’s.
The cast is as follows:
Sarah – Georgette Barton
Jenny – Elizabeth Zangari
Margaret – Brenda Lindley
Lisa – Holly Salvestrin
Jody – Rachel Wessman
Jane – Mattie McKenzie
Dana – Hannah Mahoney
Quilters will open at Imagination Theater March 24th and run thru April 17th. Follow the threads of this production as we hit the trail!!
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
Make a Halloween date with Dracula!
Enjoy a visual treat with some stage and film tricks this Halloween weekend as the multi-media tale Dracula concludes at Imagination Theater in Placerville. Richard Sharp’s version of Bram Stokers’s Dracula is brought to life with exciting film footage laced throughout the play to enhance the story and give the audience a new look at an old tale. The high definition digital process was shot in several locations, including the historical Central Pacific Railroad Passenger Station in Old Town Sacramento, the Preston School of Industry in Ione, a private residence in Cedar Grove, and a private ranch in Pleasant Valley. Come see this creatively told story!Matinees for Dracula are at 2:00 p.m. and evening shows at 7:00 p.m. both Saturday and Sunday, October 30 and 31. Friday’s show is sold out. Tickets can be purchased online at http://www.it-tickets.org/ via PayPal or contact the box office at (530) 642-0404. Advance ticket purchase is highly recommended. All tickets are $15 and are reserved. The show is rate PG-13+. Located on the El Dorado County Fairgrounds, Imagination Theater celebrates its' 10th Anniversary bringing quality, live community theater to Placerville and El Dorado County.
Free Vocal Lessons For Sac Area Men
This message is going to out to Sacramento Area performing arts groups that might have members of their group/troupe who would be interested in improving their vocal capabilities.For the next 4 Thursday's starting this upcoming Thursday (October 28th), the American River Chorus will be hosting a series of free vocal lessons, open to men of all ages that wish to learn or brush-up on their vocal production techniques. The lessons will be lead by Mr Ron Black, who is a nationally recognized leader in vocal pedagogy for male singers. We expect the sessions to be fun as well as informative.The chorus is providing these lessons as part of our mission to inspire musical excellence and promote singing in our community. We also hope to raise awareness of the American River Chorus, which is a fairly new performing group in the Sacramento Area. Our expectation is that these lessons will be useful to singers of all levels. The lessons will run from 7:30-9pm and will be conducted at Kobasics Hall, at 5324 Riverside Blvd in Sacramento.
For additional information, please visit our website at freevoicelessons4you.com or contact us at sing@americanriverchorus.org or call (800)385-3659. Please come join us or pass this information along to any men you know that would benefit from such an opportunity.
Rich Brunner
American River Chorus
World Series Schedule
If you want to see Dracula this weekend and are a SF Giants fan, the matinees of Dracula on Saturday and Sunday will be just the ticket for you! Both shows start at 2:00 p.m. Following the show, grab a pizza or take out Chinese food and you are ready for the game. Dracula tickets can be purchased online or by phone.2010 World Series Schedule
Game 1 RANGERS @ GIANTS – Wednesday, Oct. 27 at 7:30 PM
Game 2 RANGERS @ GIANTS – Thursday, Oct. 28 at 7:30 PM
Game 3 GIANTS @ RANGERS – Saturday, Oct. 30 at 6:30 PM
Game 4 GIANTS @ RANGERS – Sunday, Oct. 31 at 8:00 PM
Game 5* GIANTS @ RANGERS – Monday, Nov. 1 at 7:30 PM
Game 6* RANGERS @ GIANTS – Wednesday, Nov. 3 at 7:30 PM
Game 7* RANGERS @ GIANTS – Thursday, Nov. 4 at 7:30 PM
(* if necessary)
All 7 games (if necessary) will be televised on FOX TV.
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
Dracula at Imagination Theater Continues through Halloween Night
Dracula Tickets Available Online (preferred) or contact the Box Office (530-642-0404)
Join the Dracula Cast at Miraflores Winery on 10/20/10
Join the Dracula Cast at Miraflores Winery on 10/20/10
Sacramento Bee 10/16/10 article and online photo gallery about Dracula
Dracula Film Trailer
Dracula Cast Party at Miraflores Winery
Make your reservations at Miraflores to have a drink, a BITE and an interesting conversation with DRACULA! The cast for Imagination Theater's smash hit Dracula will be here at Miraflores Winery on October 20th from 5:30 - 9PM , for a cast party! Enjoy some delicious bites and some really delicious blood red wine, while talking with the stars. Bring a few friends for a fun ghoulish evening. While you are here take a look into our new beautiful tasting room. Please call the winery to make your reservations with Dracula! 530-647-8505 -$10 per person. See you there...
Monday, October 18, 2010
Charlotte's Web Cast List
Thanks to all who auditioned!
Wilbur
Rebekah Wilkinson
Charlotte
Tiana Vlaovich
Fern Arable
Jordan Coble
Mr. John Arable
Ben Riepe
Mrs. Martha Arable
Colleen Crooks
Avery Arable
Chandler Bruttig
Mr. Homer Zuckerman
Mrs. Edith Zuckerman
Haley Clark
Lurvey
Noah Gray
Templeton
Steve Esling
Goose and Gander
Chris Sota
Sarah Erickson
Sheep
Rose Christeson
Lamb
Anna Salvestrin
Baby Spiders
Cami Wilson
Grace Salvestrin
Riley Coble
Chorus
Anna Christeson
Isabella Mini
Caffrey Lynch
Sasha Presley
Sloane Martin
Wilbur
Rebekah Wilkinson
Charlotte
Tiana Vlaovich
Fern Arable
Jordan Coble
Mr. John Arable
Ben Riepe
Mrs. Martha Arable
Colleen Crooks
Avery Arable
Chandler Bruttig
Mr. Homer Zuckerman
Mrs. Edith Zuckerman
Haley Clark
Lurvey
Noah Gray
Templeton
Steve Esling
Goose and Gander
Chris Sota
Sarah Erickson
Sheep
Rose Christeson
Lamb
Anna Salvestrin
Baby Spiders
Cami Wilson
Grace Salvestrin
Riley Coble
Chorus
Anna Christeson
Isabella Mini
Caffrey Lynch
Sasha Presley
Sloane Martin
Narrator
Paul Sobelman
Sunday, October 17, 2010
Saturday, October 16, 2010
Dates for Grease
Tickets are available now! www.it-tickets.org (preferred) or 530-642-0404
Friday, December 3 at 7:00 p.m.
Saturday, December 4 at 2:00 p.m.
Thursday, December 9 at 7:00 p.m.
Friday, December 10 at 7:00 p.m.
Saturday, December 11 at 2:00 p.m.
Sunday, December 12 at 2:00 p.m.
Thursday, December 16 at 7:00 p.m.
Friday, December 17 at 7:00 p.m.
Saturday, December 18 at 2:00 p.m. AND 7:00 p.m.
Sunday, December 19 at 2:00 p.m.
.
Wednesday, December 22 at 7:00 p.m.
Thursday, December 23 at 7:00 p.m.
Sunday, December 26 at 2:00 p.m. AND 8:00 p.m.
Friday, December 3 at 7:00 p.m.
Saturday, December 4 at 2:00 p.m.
Thursday, December 9 at 7:00 p.m.
Friday, December 10 at 7:00 p.m.
Saturday, December 11 at 2:00 p.m.
Sunday, December 12 at 2:00 p.m.
Thursday, December 16 at 7:00 p.m.
Friday, December 17 at 7:00 p.m.
Saturday, December 18 at 2:00 p.m. AND 7:00 p.m.
Sunday, December 19 at 2:00 p.m.
.
Wednesday, December 22 at 7:00 p.m.
Thursday, December 23 at 7:00 p.m.
Sunday, December 26 at 2:00 p.m. AND 8:00 p.m.
Saturday, October 9, 2010
Intermission Added for Dracula
Due to audience response to two preview shows, we decided to add an intermisson to Dracula. Hooray! Miraflores Winery is serving wine in addition to our regular concession items.
Friday, October 8, 2010
Feeling a little stir crazy?
Get out of the house and come see Dracula tonight--opening night--here at Imagination Theater. The box office opens at 6:30 p.m. Show starts at 7:00 p.m. 530-642-0404
Thursday, October 7, 2010
"It's okay, Lucy. . .Dracula opens this Friday. . ."
Dracula opens tomorrow. . .October 8. Come and see this unique multi-media drama opening this weekend. Friday and Saturday shows are at 7:00 p.m. Sunday (10-10-10) is at 2:00 p.m.
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
Grease Set Construction - Help Needed
1. Now that Dracula is open it is time to start construction of Grease. Here is a tentative construction schedule that details what we will be doing, where we will be doing it, and how many, and what type of volunteer help we need.
2. In addition to the Grease cast and crew, we need as many "tool and painting savy" volunteers as we can find as we have a very limited amount of time to actually build Grease. After the close of Dracula, there are only 4 weekends to put Grease in place! Now is the time to find any and all volunteers.
3. There will be set construction sign-up sheets on the bulletin board in the green room at the theater.
Grease Set Construction Schedule
Sat. Oct. 23 7:00-9:00 pm Peter's House (2740 Tunnel St. Placerville)
Building Steps Need 3 adults
Sat. Oct.30 1:00-4:00 pm Peter' House
Finish Steps; Start Burger Palace Counter
Need 3 adults
Mon. Nov.1 6:00-9:00 pm At IT. Complete Dracula Strike and place main floor
units for Grease set. As many adults and cast
members as possible.
Tues. Nov. 2 7:00-9:00 pm at IT. Painting walls and placing platforms.
As many adults and cast members as possible.
Construct Teen Angel Platform.
Wed-Fri. Nov. 3-5 9:00am-3:00pm Set construction. 3 or 4 adults who can work
during the day are needed. This will be the
"push" to get most of the major portions of the
set built. Due to the short construction period,
these 3 days are critical to the success of the
show
Sat. Nov. 6 9:00am-3:00pm Entire cast to sign up for at least 2 hours of help.
Construction and painting. Need several adults in
addition to cast. Paint furniture.
Sun. Nov. 13 9:00am-Noon Entire cast by sign-up list. Construction and painting.
Need several adults in addition to cast.
Sat Nov. 20 9:00am-Noon Entire cast by sign-up list. Need adults in addition to
cast.
Sun. Nov 21 1:00-5:00 pm Entire cast by sign-up list. Set Construction and
Theater Clean-up. Need adults also.
2. In addition to the Grease cast and crew, we need as many "tool and painting savy" volunteers as we can find as we have a very limited amount of time to actually build Grease. After the close of Dracula, there are only 4 weekends to put Grease in place! Now is the time to find any and all volunteers.
3. There will be set construction sign-up sheets on the bulletin board in the green room at the theater.
Grease Set Construction Schedule
Sat. Oct. 23 7:00-9:00 pm Peter's House (2740 Tunnel St. Placerville)
Building Steps Need 3 adults
Sat. Oct.30 1:00-4:00 pm Peter' House
Finish Steps; Start Burger Palace Counter
Need 3 adults
Mon. Nov.1 6:00-9:00 pm At IT. Complete Dracula Strike and place main floor
units for Grease set. As many adults and cast
members as possible.
Tues. Nov. 2 7:00-9:00 pm at IT. Painting walls and placing platforms.
As many adults and cast members as possible.
Construct Teen Angel Platform.
Wed-Fri. Nov. 3-5 9:00am-3:00pm Set construction. 3 or 4 adults who can work
during the day are needed. This will be the
"push" to get most of the major portions of the
set built. Due to the short construction period,
these 3 days are critical to the success of the
show
Sat. Nov. 6 9:00am-3:00pm Entire cast to sign up for at least 2 hours of help.
Construction and painting. Need several adults in
addition to cast. Paint furniture.
Sun. Nov. 13 9:00am-Noon Entire cast by sign-up list. Construction and painting.
Need several adults in addition to cast.
Sat Nov. 20 9:00am-Noon Entire cast by sign-up list. Need adults in addition to
cast.
Sun. Nov 21 1:00-5:00 pm Entire cast by sign-up list. Set Construction and
Theater Clean-up. Need adults also.
Thursday, September 30, 2010
Sandy and Rizzo at the Teddy Bear Picnic
News is getting out about our upcoming production of Grease. Shelby Wulfert (Sandy) and Krista Unverferth (Rizzo) take time out of their busy schedules to sing at the Teddy Bear picnic in Apple Hill earlier in September. Come see this dynamic duo in December at the theater.
Quilters Audition Update
The audition for Quilters is just weeks away. Quilters auditioners will be seen in the order in which they arrive on October 23rd between noon and 4:00pm. When finished singing a hymn or folk song (please bring sheet music) auditioners will be taken thru a few bars of movement and then excused.
If called back on October 24th, auditioners will be expected to show at 9:00 am and plan on staying until 1:00 pm or when excused. A monologue will be given to all those called back. They will have overnight to build/develop a character. No memorization! Just purposeful character-driven reads from a script. More music and dance will be part of callbacks.
Addison adds: "The staff of Quilters is very excited to cast this show. We welcome all actresses from 14 - 40ish to go for this challenge. Ensemble musicals are great fun and stretch one's skills as well as double the fun in a production like this. This show is actual living history, as the script was taken directly from the womens' diaries from the prarie. The show is truthful, impacting and powerful - and so is the comradie and fun! The music is perfect for the setting and fun to learn."
The stage will be different for this show: "Doing the show "in the round" adds to the challenge and learning experience for all of us. We hope to see you there," notes Addison.
E-mail Chrissie Addison if you have any questions about auditions at: foothillsinger@comcast.net
If called back on October 24th, auditioners will be expected to show at 9:00 am and plan on staying until 1:00 pm or when excused. A monologue will be given to all those called back. They will have overnight to build/develop a character. No memorization! Just purposeful character-driven reads from a script. More music and dance will be part of callbacks.
Addison adds: "The staff of Quilters is very excited to cast this show. We welcome all actresses from 14 - 40ish to go for this challenge. Ensemble musicals are great fun and stretch one's skills as well as double the fun in a production like this. This show is actual living history, as the script was taken directly from the womens' diaries from the prarie. The show is truthful, impacting and powerful - and so is the comradie and fun! The music is perfect for the setting and fun to learn."
The stage will be different for this show: "Doing the show "in the round" adds to the challenge and learning experience for all of us. We hope to see you there," notes Addison.
E-mail Chrissie Addison if you have any questions about auditions at: foothillsinger@comcast.net
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
Tickets Online is The Ticket!
Things are hopping at the box office for our big opening next week. Don't delay in getting tickets. Save yourself the frustration of playing phone tag and purchase your tickets online. This past Monday, the IT Insider had over a dozen phone calls to return. Online is available 24/7. By the way, if you are a sponsor, don't wait until the last minute to get your tickets. You may find the best seats are gone.
Congratulations Elly Award Winners
Imagination Theater received four Elly awards for this past 2009-2010 season.
Congratulations to:
• Lanny Langston for Direction-Comedy, The Foreigner
• Jouni Kirjola (Ellard), The Foreigner (Supporting Actor - Comedy)
• Virgil Toothaker for Set Design-Comedy for The Foreigner
• Dave Patrick for Lighting Design-Comedy, The Foreigner
Congratulations to:
• Lanny Langston for Direction-Comedy, The Foreigner
• Jouni Kirjola (Ellard), The Foreigner (Supporting Actor - Comedy)
• Virgil Toothaker for Set Design-Comedy for The Foreigner
• Dave Patrick for Lighting Design-Comedy, The Foreigner
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
Dracula is coming. . .
Friday, October 8 at 7:00 p.m.Saturday, October 9 at 7:00 p.m.
Sunday, October 10 at 2:00 p.m.
Thursday, October 14 at 7:00 p.m.
Friday, October 15 at 7:00 p.m.
Saturday, October 16 at 7:00 p.m.
Sunday, October 17 at 2:00 p.m.
Thursday, October 21 at 7:00 p.m.
Friday, October 22 at 7:00 p.m.
Saturday, October 23 at 7:00 p.m.
Sunday, October 24 at 2:00 p.m.
Friday, October 29 at 7:00 p.m.
Saturday, October 30 at 2:00 p.m. & 7:00 p.m.
Sunday, October 31 at 2:00 p.m.& 7:00 p.m.
Thursday, September 23, 2010
Charlotte's Web Scripts
Charlotte's Web scripts will be available after casting, or on an as-needed basis for auditioners. But this preparation is not necessary, and I would almost discourage it, as I would like to see the auditioners' immediate ability to create character and how they act on stage without preparation. However, if you would like to review a script, simply let me know.Brad Cameron
Director
Charlotte's Web
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
Old West Trio Comes to IT! this Saturday
Imagination Theater welcomes the Old West Trio which offers their “Granny-nominated, yodelicious, reel western music” this Saturday, September 25 at 8:00 p.m. From the first yodeling toe-tapper until the last lilting coyote chorus, the Old West Trio delivers uplifting cowboy and folk music to listeners of all ages. The trio, composed of Steve Ide, Leslie Ide, and Steve Johnson, is based right in our own backyard.As lead guitarist Steve Johnson puts it, “The Old West is the most celebrated era of our American heritage and cowboy music is a history lesson with a melody.” To honor that heritage, the Old West Trio performs both traditional and contemporary songs that explore a variety of styles, including gunfighter ballads, western swing, classic Sons of the Pioneers, and lively yodeling tunes. Leslie Ide adds, “Our contribution to the cowboy culture is in capturing the spirit of the West in song.” All seats are $20.00 and can be purchased online, by phone, or at the door.
Thursday, September 16, 2010
Seeking Stage Crew Help
We are excited about our upcoming multi-media stage production, Dracula, coming in October. We are still looking for two people to work behind the scenes for stage crew. If you want to be involved, contact Lanny at 530-903-6361 as soon as possible.
Tuesday, September 14, 2010
Sunday, September 12, 2010
Quilters brings out treasures and stories
The squares came from Allyn Burke, a local Placerville woman who inherited them from her grandmother. Ostensibly 100 - 110 years old. Design is the "log cabin" patchwork. Delicate, beautiful pieces that will be reconstructed by a fabric conservator and probably displayed in local museum, as it will be too delicate to be displayed on stage. This is the kind of gold nugget that has been coming forth during this pre-show process.
Friday, September 10, 2010
STC School of Arts Offers Classes
CLASS INFO:
SATURDAY MORNINGS or
MONDAY AFTER SCHOOL
September 18th - November 13th
Grades 1st - 3rd 9:00 a.m. - 10:15 a.m.
Grades 4th - 6th 10:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
September 20th - November 15th
Grades 4th - 6th 4:30 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Grades 7th - 9th 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
For more information, or to audition for the
musical workshop production of Seussical Jr.
Contact:
Director of Ensemble at:
stcensemble@yahoo.com
916.446.7501 x116
or visit us online at
www.sactheatre.org
************************************************************************************************************************ Don't miss The Servant of Two Masters
presented by
STC's Young Professionals Conservatory
One week only!
September 22-26
For $15 tickets and show times please contact:
Wells Fargo Pavilion Box Office today!
916.443.6722
*************************************************************************************************************************************
Questions about Sacramento Theatre Company's
School of the Arts?
Attend our
***School of the Arts Information Night***
September 14 at 6:30 p.m.
STC 1419 H. St
Please RSVP to stc2actors@gmail.com
SATURDAY MORNINGS or
MONDAY AFTER SCHOOL
September 18th - November 13th
Grades 1st - 3rd 9:00 a.m. - 10:15 a.m.
Grades 4th - 6th 10:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
September 20th - November 15th
Grades 4th - 6th 4:30 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Grades 7th - 9th 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
For more information, or to audition for the
musical workshop production of Seussical Jr.
Contact:
Director of Ensemble at:
stcensemble@yahoo.com
916.446.7501 x116
or visit us online at
www.sactheatre.org
************************************************************************************************************************ Don't miss The Servant of Two Masters
presented by
STC's Young Professionals Conservatory
One week only!
September 22-26
For $15 tickets and show times please contact:
Wells Fargo Pavilion Box Office today!
916.443.6722
*************************************************************************************************************************************
Questions about Sacramento Theatre Company's
School of the Arts?
Attend our
***School of the Arts Information Night***
September 14 at 6:30 p.m.
STC 1419 H. St
Please RSVP to stc2actors@gmail.com
Thursday, September 9, 2010
Dracula won't take a bite out of your wallet. . .
. . .all tickets are $15 for this multi-media show. Dracula opens October 8 through October 31 with evening shows at 7:00 p.m. and matinees at 2:00 p.m. Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased online at www.it-tickets.org. All seating is reserved. The show is rate PG-13+ and is two hours with no intermission.
Friday, September 3, 2010
Purchasing Tickets for the Elly's
In case you wondered how to purchase tickets for the Elly's, here's the link to make your purchase:http://www.sarta.com/elly-ticket-buy.htm
Thursday, September 2, 2010
New IT Box Office Hours
Official box office hours to Tuesday and Thursday from 9:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. We may be here at other times, so don't hesitate to call (530-642-0404) or email (itplacerville@yahoo.com). We are here to help. Tickets can also be ordered online.
Old West Trio at IT! on Sept. 25 at 8 p.m.
The Old West Trio invites you to take a listen to some of their "Granny-nominated, yodelicious, reel western music” at:http://www.old-west.net/
“The Old West is the most celebrated era of our American heritage and cowboy music is a history lesson with a melody.”
Y’all contact the theater online or 530-642-0404 to git yer tickets today.
All tickets $20
Wednesday, September 1, 2010
Master Carpenter Needed
Master Carpenters and carpenters are needed for January through March 2011 productions of Charlotte's Web and Quilters. Work is on weekends building sets for both shows. You must have your own tools and a willingness to give up a few hours of your time to build sets.Tickets to those productions are offered in exchange for work. Please contact the box office at 530-642-0404 for additional information and details. Located on the El Dorado County Fairgrounds, Imagination Theater celebrates its' 10th Anniversary bringing quality, live community theater to Placerville and El Dorado County.
Tuesday, August 31, 2010
Old West Trio Yodels on Over to IT!
From the first yodeling toe-tapper until the last lilting coyote chorus, the Old West Trio delivers uplifting cowboy and folk music to listeners of all ages. The trio, composed of Steve Ide, Leslie Ide, and Steve Johnson, is based in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, just a stone’s throw from where the Gold Rush of 1849 began. As lead guitarist Steve Johnson puts it, “The Old West is the most celebrated era of our American heritage and cowboy music is a history lesson with a melody.” To honor that heritage, the Old West Trio performs both traditional and contemporary songs that explore a variety of styles, including gunfighter ballads, western swing, classic Sons of the Pioneers, and lively yodeling tunes. Leslie Ide adds, “Our contribution to the cowboy culture is in capturing the spirit of the West in song.”The Old West Trio has performed from California to Montana, including the C.M. Russell Museum in Great Falls and the Wort Hotel's Silver Dollar Bar in Jackson, Wyoming. Other venues include the Western States Horse Expo (Sacramento, Calif.), the Elk Grove Western Festival (Elk Grove, Calif.), the Rhymers Rodeer (Minden, Nevada), and the historic Silver Queen Hotel (Virginia City, Nevada). They have appeared on several radio programs, including the Range 103.7 FM with Mason Tibbs (Jackson, Wyoming), Back Roads on KVMR 89.5 FM (Nevada City, Calif.), Radio Ranch with Mick Vernon on KNRY 1240 AM, Horsemen's Radio Weekly, and the Chronicle of the Old West.
The Old West Trio makes guest appearances in the summer for Scofield's Cowboy Campfire at the Red Mule Ranch in Fiddletown, California. They helped launch the popular chuck wagon dinner and cowboy music and poetry program in 1997. The Old West Trio performes at Imagination Theater on Saturday, September 25 at 8:00 p.m. All tickets are $20. This will be a very entertaining evening. Tickets can be purchased online or by calling the box office at 530-642-0404.
Friday, August 27, 2010
Make a Date with Dracula
Tickets can be purchased at www.it-tickets.orgFriday, October 8 at 7:00 p.m.
Saturday, October 9 at 7:00 p.m.
Sunday, October 10 at 2:00 p.m.
Thursday, October 14 at 7:00 p.m.
Friday, October 15 at 7:00 p.m.
Saturday, October 16 at 7:00 p.m.
Sunday, October 17 at 2:00 p.m.
Thursday, October 21 at 7:00 p.m.
Friday, October 22 at 7:00 p.m.
Saturday, October 23 at 7:00 p.m.
Sunday, October 24 at 2:00 p.m.
Friday, October 29 at 7:00 p.m.
Saturday, October 30 at 2:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m.
Sunday, October 31 at 2:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m.
The Box Office is open Tuesday and Thursdays from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Thursday, August 26, 2010
Quilters Staff Busy Stitching Together Pieces . . .
The momentum for Quilters continues as auditions approach less than two months away – scheduled October 23 and 24 at the theater.“Scripts and DVDs are being borrowed from IT and my studio--I appreciate the interest in the show,” notes Chrissie Addison, upcoming director of Quilters. She adds that scripts can be purchased from Amazon for $8.25 which are the same scripts that will be used in the show. “It’s cheaper than copying one, I think,” says Addison.
The staff is seeking actresses from 14 – 40(ish) who can play several characters in an ensemble, sing harmonies and possibly solos and move easily and can learn some basic western-type dances. “At auditions, we only need one song – preferably a hymn or folk song with sheet music. Head shots and resumes do help the audition panel if you have them. “
She adds that auditioners will dance on the first day of auditions. Those being called back will be given a monologue to take home and bring back to callbacks. No memorization will be necessary; just a character “reading” to display one’s ability to pull a character off the page to the stage. Callbacks will include group readings, more work on group songs and dance review.
Addison says, “Some costume pieces are already started and they are period and perfect. Designs are being historically collected by Audrey Keebler, the costume mistress. We’re setting the show around 1870.”
In addition, the smaller quilt blocks that introduce each of the scenes as well as the larger Legacy Quilt (made entirely from community donations!) are well on their way to being completed. “These women are do-ers and as soon as they had sight of this project, they tackled it full steam ahead. Plumb tickles me!”
Design meetings with Rick Gaylord on set design, Charlie Cosens on lighting design, Virgil Toothaker on set construction, LeeAnn Flickenger-Hamblen on choreography, Steve May on sound design and both music directors Jerri Myers and Dale Wallerstein on music coordination are unfolding. “We are sharing concepts on a group vision of sound, look and feel of the show. Doing this show in the ‘round’ is a great challenge for all of us and I’m very glad to have this talented staff on board to help me tackle this show.”
More information on auditions can be found under the audition link at IT’s website. Questions can be directed to Chrissie Addison at foothillsinger@comcast.net or at 530-626-4464.
Kiwanis Pasta Feed on Thursday, Sept. 23
Gather family and friends to enjoy a delightful feast of pasta! The Placerville Kiwanis Club (who has supported Imagination Theater over the years) is hosting the annual Pasta Feed on Thursday, September 23, 2010 at the Marshall Building on the fairgrounds from 5 to 9 pm. Adult tickets are $10 and children’s tickets (12 yrs and under) are $5, and the Family ticket is $25 (2 adults and 2 children). Proceeds support youth programs in our community. To purchase tickets, contact Lanny Langston at 530-903-6361.
Tuesday, August 24, 2010
IT! Receives Nine Elly Nominations (2010)
Congratulations
to Lanny Langston for Direction-Comedy, Greater Tuna
to Lanny Langston for Direction-Comedy, Greater Tuna
Congratulations
to the cast and crew for Best Overall Production-Comedy, The Foreigner
to Lanny Langston, Elly Nominee, for Direction-Comedy, The Foreigner
to Michael Bishop (Lead Actor - Comedy), The Foreigner
to Jouni Kirjola (Supporting Actor - Comedy), The Foreigner
to Virgil Toothaker for Set Design-Comedy for The Foreigner
to Dave Patrick for Lighting Design-Comedy, The Foreigner
Congratulations
to Dave Patrick for Lighting Design-Comedy, The Foreigner
Congratulations
to Peter Wolfe for Set Design-Musical, Beauty and the Beast
to Terri Thomas for Costume Deisgn-Musical, Beauty and the Beast
to Terri Thomas for Costume Deisgn-Musical, Beauty and the Beast
Tuesday, August 17, 2010
The Old West Trio Concert - September 25
We'd love to see you at the The Old West Trio concert at Imagination Theater on September 25. To hear some samples of their fine music, please check out their website at http://www.old-west.net/home.html. Ya'all can also join their facebook page too. More details to follow after our big ol' fundraiser this Friday, August 20. Contact the box office at 530-642-0404 for information. All tickets are $20.
Thursday, August 12, 2010
Online Program: The Fabulous 50s
Although we have given you a sneak peak of some of the items from our fundraiser a little while back, here is an online guide in case you'd like to get a "real time" view of what is available. We'd love to see YOU at the fundraiser--bring a friend or two, too! Tickets can be purchased here.
You can get your tickets online for the fundraiser!
Okay, you've always been able to get your tickets online. . .but here is the site you want to use for ease and convenience for advance check in:
http://www.silentauctionpro.com/onlineticketpurchase.php?groupId=113
See you on Friday, August 20!
http://www.silentauctionpro.com/onlineticketpurchase.php?groupId=113
See you on Friday, August 20!
Wednesday, August 11, 2010
RSVP to the Fundraiser on August 20
Wow! The fundraiser is next week. Be here on Friday, August 20 for An Affair to Remember: The Fabulous 50s! It won't be the same without you! RSVP please. 530-642-0404.$20 in advance, $25 at the door.
Monday, August 9, 2010
Shake, Rattle and Roll into the Fabulous 50's
Come dressed in 50's Style to our Fabulous 50's FUNdraiser on Friday, August 20. Imagination Theater will hold its third annual silent and live auction, An Affair to Rememberin the Organ Room on the El Dorado County Fairgrounds in Placerville. The event begins at 6:00 P.M. Advanced tickets,$20.00 and tickets are $25.00 at the door. Proceeds help fund upcoming productions at Imagination Theater.In addition to the silent and live auction, there will be delicious food provided by Café Sierra and Rescue Catering. Candy Strike will delight attendees with a chocolate fountain and miniature fudge-filled ice cream cones. Local wines will be poured along with beer from Placerville Brewing Company, Old Hangtown Beer Works, Jack Russell Brewing Company, and the Wheat Bear Company.
Among the live auction items is a portable party wagon suitable for any occasion, getaway weekends to San Francisco and Lake Tahoe, a 3-night stay in Ashland, Oregon (includes dinner, play, and backstage tour), and a five nights stay in an ocean front condo in Cabo San Lucas. There will be many silent auction items also available for bidding from local businesses.
This is an excellent opportunity to enjoy a fun evening out and support our high-quality, live productions. Tickets can be purchased online, by phone, or at the door. Located on the El Dorado County Fairgrounds, Imagination Theater celebrates its' 10th Anniversary bringing quality, live community theater to Placerville and El Dorado County. Imagination Theater is a 501.3(c) non-profit corporation.
Wednesday, August 4, 2010
Monday, July 26, 2010
Imagination Theater Presents Third Annual Silent/Live Auction
Imagination Theater will present its third annual silent and live auction, “An Affair to Remember,” on Friday, August 20, 2010 at Imagination Theater and the adjoining Organ Room on the El Dorado County Fairgrounds in Placerville. The fundraising event will begin at 6:00 P.M. Advanced tickets for $20.00 are on sale by phone (530) 642-0404 or online. Tickets will be $25.00 at the door on the night of the event. Proceeds will help fund upcoming productions at Imagination Theater.This year’s theme for “An Affair to Remember” is rock and roll in the fabulous 1950’s, in honor of IT’s upcoming winter holiday production, Grease. Attendees are encouraged, but not required, to come dressed in 50’s style.
In addition to the silent and live auction and raffle, there will be delicious food provided by Café Sierra and Rescue Catering. The Candy Strike will delight attendees with a chocolate fountain and miniature fudge-filled ice cream cones. Wine from Boeger, Madroña, and Colibri Ridge wineries will be available, along with beer from Placerville Brewing Company, Old Hangtown Beer Works, Jack Russell Brewing Company, and the Wheat Bear Company. Soda, coffee, tea and water will also be provided.
Jeff Lathrop will return as the popular Master of Ceremonies for the live auction. Among the live auction items is a portable beer/party wagon suitable for any occasion, getaway weekends to San Francisco and Lake Tahoe, a 3-night stay in Ashland, Oregon (includes dinner, play, and backstage tour), and a five nights stay in an ocean front condo in Cabo San Lucas. There will be many silent auction items also available for bidding from local businesses.
This is an excellent opportunity to enjoy a fun evening out and do some early holiday shopping, while supporting Imagination Theater’s high-quality live productions. Imagination Theater is a 501.3(c) non-profit corporation. For further information and to purchase advance tickets contact the box office at (530) 642-0404.
Wednesday, July 21, 2010
Just a sneak peak of fundraiser items. . .
Hey blog readers,
Here is just a sampling of some of the items for the silent auction portion of our Fabulous 50's FUNdraiser coming up on Friday, August 20 at 6:00 p.m. Tickets are available in advance for $20 or at the door for $25. Please come out to support the theater and share a fun evening with friends.
Margarita Basket
Wine Lover's Basket
Grease Basket
Dracula Basket
Charlotte's Web Gift Basket
Family Movie Basket
Chick Flicks Movie Basket
Movie Basket for the Musical Lover
Wine and Chocolate Basket
Hawaiian Basket
Disney Basket
Golf Lover's Basket
Imagination Theater's 2011 Season Tickets for two
Customized Make Over by Cassandra's Esthetics
Inner Rhythms Massage
American River Massage
Massages by Stacey
Time Out Spa
Sundance Spa Package
Back 40 Texas BBQ Gift Certificate
Gift Certificate - Cascada
Gold Vine Grill Gift Certificate
DK Cellars Meritage & $25 Gift Certificate
Gift Basket - Boa Vista Orchards
Lunch for Two Gift Certificate - Powell's Steamer Co.
30 Minute Swim Lesson with Janine Joy of AquaSol Swim Team
2 Half Hour Vocal Training Sessions with Chrissie Addison
Astrology Reading with Jessica Logan
Gift Certificate - Placerville Bike Shop
Gift Certificate - Off Broadway
Gift Certificate - Empress
Gift Certificate - Crystal's
Fly Fishing Kit - Off the Hook
Pandora Bracelet and Charm - Randolph Jewelers
Turquoise & Mother of Pearl Watch - Mike Yurkovic
Hollywood Glamour Bedroom Set - Robinson's Pharmacy
Ceiling fan - Home Depot
Here is just a sampling of some of the items for the silent auction portion of our Fabulous 50's FUNdraiser coming up on Friday, August 20 at 6:00 p.m. Tickets are available in advance for $20 or at the door for $25. Please come out to support the theater and share a fun evening with friends.
Margarita Basket
Wine Lover's Basket
Grease Basket
Dracula Basket
Charlotte's Web Gift Basket
Family Movie Basket
Chick Flicks Movie Basket
Movie Basket for the Musical Lover
Wine and Chocolate Basket
Hawaiian Basket
Disney Basket
Golf Lover's Basket
Imagination Theater's 2011 Season Tickets for two
Customized Make Over by Cassandra's Esthetics
Inner Rhythms Massage
American River Massage
Massages by Stacey
Time Out Spa
Sundance Spa Package
Back 40 Texas BBQ Gift Certificate
Gift Certificate - Cascada
Gold Vine Grill Gift Certificate
DK Cellars Meritage & $25 Gift Certificate
Gift Basket - Boa Vista Orchards
Lunch for Two Gift Certificate - Powell's Steamer Co.
30 Minute Swim Lesson with Janine Joy of AquaSol Swim Team
2 Half Hour Vocal Training Sessions with Chrissie Addison
Astrology Reading with Jessica Logan
Gift Certificate - Placerville Bike Shop
Gift Certificate - Off Broadway
Gift Certificate - Empress
Gift Certificate - Crystal's
Fly Fishing Kit - Off the Hook
Pandora Bracelet and Charm - Randolph Jewelers
Turquoise & Mother of Pearl Watch - Mike Yurkovic
Hollywood Glamour Bedroom Set - Robinson's Pharmacy
Ceiling fan - Home Depot
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
Meet the Anne Frank Cast - Mr. Kraler
Bob Steele (Mr. Kraler)
Recently retired as a high school teacher, Bob’s favorite subjects were U.S. and World History. This passion for history—especially civil rights, fuels his intense interest in Anne Frank’s narrative. He believes that history is more relevant when shared on a personal level, allowing the audience to empathize with the people and events of the time. This is Bob’s debut with Imagination Theater. When not rehearsing, he volunteers for El Dorado seniors.
Recently retired as a high school teacher, Bob’s favorite subjects were U.S. and World History. This passion for history—especially civil rights, fuels his intense interest in Anne Frank’s narrative. He believes that history is more relevant when shared on a personal level, allowing the audience to empathize with the people and events of the time. This is Bob’s debut with Imagination Theater. When not rehearsing, he volunteers for El Dorado seniors.
Great Seats for Friday's Show, July 23
Come out on Friday night, July 23 to see The Diary of Anne Frank here at Imagination Theater. There are some great seats waiting just for you. The show starts at 7:00 p.m. The box office and theater open at 6:30 p.m.
Bring a friend, bring a group! Come!
Monday, July 19, 2010
Meet the Anne Frank Cast - Miep
Kristine Miranda (Miep)
Kristi, a junior at El Dorado High School, is honored to play Miep as she admires her willingness to risk her life for others. Kristi’s more recent theatrical experience include the EDHS productions of The Man Who Came to Dinner and Bye Bye Birdie. An IT! veteran, she’s played a Silly Girl in Beauty and the Beast as was recently cast as Frenchy in Grease, coming to IT! this December. She is thankful for her family’s support as she follows her dreams.
Kristi, a junior at El Dorado High School, is honored to play Miep as she admires her willingness to risk her life for others. Kristi’s more recent theatrical experience include the EDHS productions of The Man Who Came to Dinner and Bye Bye Birdie. An IT! veteran, she’s played a Silly Girl in Beauty and the Beast as was recently cast as Frenchy in Grease, coming to IT! this December. She is thankful for her family’s support as she follows her dreams.
Next Show Thursday, July 22 at 7:00 p.m.
"Kudos to the cast. It's always amazing to me that people I know (the actors) can make me believe they are someone else (the characters). Well done!""I am delighted to see that IT is producing this important play... especially in our current increasingly acrimonious civil climate. I have emailed my friends, encouraging them to attend"
(Sarah Erickson, as Anne, writes in her diary about her life in the attic)
Sunday, July 18, 2010
Final Shows - The Diary of Anne Frank
Come join us for the final three shows of The Diary of Anne Frank. - Thursday, July 22 at 7:00 p.m.
- Friday, July 23 at 7:00 p.m.
- Saturday, July 24 at 2:00 p.m.
There are great seats available. All seats are $10. Tickets can be purchased by phone (530-642-0404), online, or at the door.
Meet the Anne Frank Cast - Dr. Dussell
Paul Sobelman (Dr. Dussell)
Paul has over 15 years of experience at the theater. Initially working backstage and in the light booth for his son’s shows, he was “bitten by the acting bug” and has performed on stage here in The Music Man, Big River, Lil’ Abner, Godspell, and The Wizard of Oz. As a busy Family Practice doctor, it has been challenging to find the time for acting, but the thrill of performing makes the many hours and hard work worthwhile. He is enjoying the challenge of a more serious character in Anne Frank, and thanks his wife, Stephanie, for her support and encouragement.
Paul has over 15 years of experience at the theater. Initially working backstage and in the light booth for his son’s shows, he was “bitten by the acting bug” and has performed on stage here in The Music Man, Big River, Lil’ Abner, Godspell, and The Wizard of Oz. As a busy Family Practice doctor, it has been challenging to find the time for acting, but the thrill of performing makes the many hours and hard work worthwhile. He is enjoying the challenge of a more serious character in Anne Frank, and thanks his wife, Stephanie, for her support and encouragement.
Saturday, July 17, 2010
Meet the Anne Frank Cast - Peter Van Daan
Garrett Hernandez (Peter Van Daan)
Garrett has been with IT! since he was nine and has always had a love for the theater. He appreciates showing the dramatic side of his acting skills with his character, Peter. The theater has taught him that you should always go for the goal—and even if you fail, you should always try again. He would like to move to the “big times” and become a “big time” actor,. He realizes it may take a lot of work, but he’s willing to do what it takes. “Hopefully, people won’t only choose me for my dashing good looks!”
Garrett has been with IT! since he was nine and has always had a love for the theater. He appreciates showing the dramatic side of his acting skills with his character, Peter. The theater has taught him that you should always go for the goal—and even if you fail, you should always try again. He would like to move to the “big times” and become a “big time” actor,. He realizes it may take a lot of work, but he’s willing to do what it takes. “Hopefully, people won’t only choose me for my dashing good looks!”
Friday, July 16, 2010
Meet the Anne Frank Cast - Mrs. Van Daan
Kathleen Mini (Mrs. Van Daan)
Most recently, Kathleen was seen in IT’s production of Beauty and the Beast as Babette. In addition, she has appeared as Glinda in The Wizard of Oz and a wife in Lil’ Abner. Kathleen is the busy mother of two children who have also discovered the joy and fun of theater. She and her husband are owners of a personal fitness studio, Mini’s House of Pain. Kathleen also teaches Jazzercize in Shingle Springs. She would like to thank her husband and children for their loving support and give a standing ovation to her theater directors and mentors, Peter, Lanny, Elizabeth and Chrissie.
Most recently, Kathleen was seen in IT’s production of Beauty and the Beast as Babette. In addition, she has appeared as Glinda in The Wizard of Oz and a wife in Lil’ Abner. Kathleen is the busy mother of two children who have also discovered the joy and fun of theater. She and her husband are owners of a personal fitness studio, Mini’s House of Pain. Kathleen also teaches Jazzercize in Shingle Springs. She would like to thank her husband and children for their loving support and give a standing ovation to her theater directors and mentors, Peter, Lanny, Elizabeth and Chrissie.
Thursday, July 15, 2010
The Diary of Anne Frank - only six more shows!
Don't miss Imagination Theater's summer production, The Diary of Anne Frank, running through Saturday, July 24. Tickets are available online, by phone (530-642-0404), or at the door. Get reaquainted with Anne's story. All tickets are $10.00. Friday, July 16 at 7:00 p.m.
Saturday, July 17 at 2:00 p.m.
Sunday, July 18 at 2:00 p.m.
Thursday, July 22 at 7:00 p.m.
Friday, July 23 at 7:00 p.m.
Saturday, July 24 at 2:00 p.m.
Located in the El Dorado County Fairgrounds, Imagination Theater celebrates its' tenth anniversary bringing quality, live theater to Placerville and El Dorado County.
Meet the Anne Frank Cast - Mr. Van Daan
Joe Grady (Mr. Van Daan)
Prior to landing a role in Charlie’s Aunt in 1994, Joe’s last stage performance was in his school’s St. Patrick’s Day extravaganza in 1949. His excuse for the gap is that he is choosy about his roles! In the last fifteen years he has been in A Christmas Carol, Early One Evening at the Rainbow Bar & Grill, Into the Woods, Oliver, Sylvia, Death of a Salesman, Under the Milkwood, and Breaking Legs. If you look close enough, you may see his winning smile on the Black Oak Casino television commercial. He hopes that the audience comes away from the show with a renewed sense of empathy for all people who suffer and die as a result of intolerance.
Prior to landing a role in Charlie’s Aunt in 1994, Joe’s last stage performance was in his school’s St. Patrick’s Day extravaganza in 1949. His excuse for the gap is that he is choosy about his roles! In the last fifteen years he has been in A Christmas Carol, Early One Evening at the Rainbow Bar & Grill, Into the Woods, Oliver, Sylvia, Death of a Salesman, Under the Milkwood, and Breaking Legs. If you look close enough, you may see his winning smile on the Black Oak Casino television commercial. He hopes that the audience comes away from the show with a renewed sense of empathy for all people who suffer and die as a result of intolerance.
Wednesday, July 14, 2010
Anne Frank - Meet the Assistant Director
Elizabeth Zangari (Assistant Director)
Beth has been a part of IT! since 2004, when she appeared in the role of Mrs. Greer, the housekeeper in Annie. She has been involved in many aspects of the theater, from set construction to stage manager , and chorus to supporting roles as long as she can remember, even majoring in the theater arts in her first round of college. Her favorite past experiences include directing The Enchanted Adventures of Hansel and Grethel, playing Ethel Toffelmeyer in The Music Man, and cooking fried eggs and grits for The Foreigner. Beth is grateful to Peter Wolfe and Lanny Langston for taking a chance and giving her the opportunity to direct her own script. She looks forward to working with her husband in the upcoming production of Grease.
Beth has been a part of IT! since 2004, when she appeared in the role of Mrs. Greer, the housekeeper in Annie. She has been involved in many aspects of the theater, from set construction to stage manager , and chorus to supporting roles as long as she can remember, even majoring in the theater arts in her first round of college. Her favorite past experiences include directing The Enchanted Adventures of Hansel and Grethel, playing Ethel Toffelmeyer in The Music Man, and cooking fried eggs and grits for The Foreigner. Beth is grateful to Peter Wolfe and Lanny Langston for taking a chance and giving her the opportunity to direct her own script. She looks forward to working with her husband in the upcoming production of Grease.
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
Anne Frank Cast - Margot
Angela Verzello (Margot Frank)
Angela has loved to act longer than she can remember. Her parents have told stories of her performances on the coffee table long before she could talk! Later, she began acting in school plays and community theater. She’s loved every minute of it. She has been in Can’t Take It With You, The Crucible, and Cyrano de Begeroc. Also involved at the Olde Coloma Theater, she played Fanny in Professor Phineas Philpott’s Fabulous Formula or A Dose of His Own Medicine and Honest in The Chinese Have a Word For It or As Confucius Say. . . “Fah Out!” This is her first production at IT!
Angela has loved to act longer than she can remember. Her parents have told stories of her performances on the coffee table long before she could talk! Later, she began acting in school plays and community theater. She’s loved every minute of it. She has been in Can’t Take It With You, The Crucible, and Cyrano de Begeroc. Also involved at the Olde Coloma Theater, she played Fanny in Professor Phineas Philpott’s Fabulous Formula or A Dose of His Own Medicine and Honest in The Chinese Have a Word For It or As Confucius Say. . . “Fah Out!” This is her first production at IT!
Monday, July 12, 2010
Anne Frank Cast - Edith Frank
Lori Whittle (Edith Frank)
Lori is new to the stage even though she grew up watching performances from the Alvin Ailey Dance Company, SF Ballet, and musicals on Broadway. Lori, herself participated in children’s dance recitals and high school and community productions. When she landed a part in IT’s The Wizard of Oz, she had so much fun she returned as stage manager for Beauty and the Beast. Last April, she dabbled in film work as script supervisor for Dracula. Those who know her find it surprising that she is acting in a dramatic production since she is typically the comic relief. She feels indebted to Peter Wolfe and Lanny Langston for letting her participate in many of their projects. She is also thankful for her husband’s patience and children’s support. “As a mother and laid-off teacher, participating in this production is my way of being part of something important.” I hope to honor those who perished in the holocaust by remembering them.”
Lori is new to the stage even though she grew up watching performances from the Alvin Ailey Dance Company, SF Ballet, and musicals on Broadway. Lori, herself participated in children’s dance recitals and high school and community productions. When she landed a part in IT’s The Wizard of Oz, she had so much fun she returned as stage manager for Beauty and the Beast. Last April, she dabbled in film work as script supervisor for Dracula. Those who know her find it surprising that she is acting in a dramatic production since she is typically the comic relief. She feels indebted to Peter Wolfe and Lanny Langston for letting her participate in many of their projects. She is also thankful for her husband’s patience and children’s support. “As a mother and laid-off teacher, participating in this production is my way of being part of something important.” I hope to honor those who perished in the holocaust by remembering them.”
Sunday, July 11, 2010
Anne Frank Animation Hopes to Reach New Audience
A graphic novel based on the diaries of Anne Frank was released Friday in the Netherlands. The Anne Frank Museum in Amsterdam said it is hoping the format will encourage more youngsters to discover Anne Frank's story. An English-language version of the graphic novel will be available in North America in September.
Frank is the young Jewish girl whose family spent two years in hiding in Amsterdam as the Nazis occupied the Netherlands. Just 13 when she and her family began living in a secret annex in a factory building, Anne kept a diary of her experience.
The Anne Frank Museum in Amsterdam said it hopes the graphic novel format will encourage more youngsters to discover Anne Frank's story. (Evert Elzinga/Associated Press) The family was eventually betrayed and taken by the Nazis. Anne died in a concentration camp, along with her mother and sister. Only her father, Otto, survived the war. He published her diary, which had been preserved by one of the women who helped them while they were in hiding, in 1947.
Spokeswoman Annemarie Bekker said the book is the most widely read document to emerge from the Holocaust, and the museum wants to introduce it to teens who might not read the book.
"Not everyone will read the diary," she said. "The one doesn't exclude the other."
The museum approached writer Sid Jacobson and artist Ernie Colon, who previously collaborated on the 9/11 Commission Report and are working on a graphic novel about Che Guevera.
"Jacobson and Colon have shown that they can make complex information accessible with creativity, rich imagery and integrity," the museum said in a statement.
The 160-page graphic novel, developed with oversight by the museum, starts with the Anne's birth in Frankfurt and ends with the return of Otto Frank from a concentration camp.
In the Netherlands, the biography will be distributed to secondary schools with a special teaching package.
Hill & Wang will distribute the graphic novel in the U.S. and Canada and editions in French, German and Spanish have also been lined up.
Click here to see the animation.
Ushers Needed
The theater is still looking for ushers for The Diary of Anne Frank. All those who help receive a complimentary seat for that show. Please pass along the word to those who you know who may be interested. 530-642-0404
Sunday, July 17 at 2:00 p.m. - need 1
Sunday, July 18 at 2:00 p.m. - need 2
Friday, July 23 at 7:00 p.m. - need 1
Sunday, July 17 at 2:00 p.m. - need 1
Sunday, July 18 at 2:00 p.m. - need 2
Friday, July 23 at 7:00 p.m. - need 1
Anne Frank Cast - Otto Frank
Duane (D.P.) Maracin (Otto Frank)
D.P., as he is known to his friends, was bitten by the acting bug during his high school years in San Diego, with leading roles in George Washington Slept Here and Ladies in Retirement. While he and his late wife, Margo raised their four children, he sang and played guitar at any gig he could get. He later resumed his love of acting and became active in community theater acting in Move Over, Mrs. Markham, The Crucible, Our Town, Of Mice and Men, To Kill a Mockingbird, Look Homeward Angel, Ah Wilderness, Fool for Love, and Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde. This is D.P.’s third appearance at IT! He has previously appeared as Senator Phogbound in Lil’ Abner, and as the barber and prisoner in Man of La Mancha. Planning to retire in the spring of 2011, he looks forward to more acting, writing, trout fishing, cartooning, and maintaining his vintage Porsche.
D.P., as he is known to his friends, was bitten by the acting bug during his high school years in San Diego, with leading roles in George Washington Slept Here and Ladies in Retirement. While he and his late wife, Margo raised their four children, he sang and played guitar at any gig he could get. He later resumed his love of acting and became active in community theater acting in Move Over, Mrs. Markham, The Crucible, Our Town, Of Mice and Men, To Kill a Mockingbird, Look Homeward Angel, Ah Wilderness, Fool for Love, and Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde. This is D.P.’s third appearance at IT! He has previously appeared as Senator Phogbound in Lil’ Abner, and as the barber and prisoner in Man of La Mancha. Planning to retire in the spring of 2011, he looks forward to more acting, writing, trout fishing, cartooning, and maintaining his vintage Porsche.
Saturday, July 10, 2010
Introducing the Anne Frank Cast (Anne)
Sarah Erickson (Anne Frank)
Sarah is 15 years old and is a sophomore at El Dorado High School. This is her ninth show at Imagination Theater and she is excited to be playing the role of Anne Frank. She is grateful for the opportunity to share her amazing story with Placerville. She has learned a lot herself. She’d like to thank her parents and director for their support, and the cast for the feeling of true family.
Sarah is 15 years old and is a sophomore at El Dorado High School. This is her ninth show at Imagination Theater and she is excited to be playing the role of Anne Frank. She is grateful for the opportunity to share her amazing story with Placerville. She has learned a lot herself. She’d like to thank her parents and director for their support, and the cast for the feeling of true family.
Friday, July 9, 2010
The Diary of Anne Frank Opens Tonight, July 9
Please come and see this outstanding play. Tickets can be purchased online, by phone, or at the door. All tickets are $10. Friday, July 9 at 7:00 p.m.
Saturday, July 10 at 2:00 p.m.
Sunday, July 11 at 2:00 p.m.
Friday, July 16 at 7:00 p.m.
Sunday, July 17 at 2:00 p.m.
Sunday, July 18 at 2:00 p.m.
Thursday, July 22 at 7:00 p.m.
Friday, July 23 at 7:00 p.m.
Saturday, July 24 at 2:00 p.m. (CLOSING SHOW)
The Box Office opens a half an hour in advance of the show. 530-642-0404
Monday, July 5, 2010
Interview with Chrissie Addison, Quilters Director
AN INTERVIEW WITH CHRISSIE ADDISON
by Karen Harnden
Chrissie Addison is a veteran actor, director, teacher and theatre aficionado who will bring the musical Quilters to Placerville next winter for Imagination Theater. The following interview took place on June 16th over lunch on the shaded porch of Chrissie’s vintage home.
K: The obvious first question is why Quilters, and why now?
C: First of all, doing Quilters before [in 1987] was a peak experience for me on stage playing the eldest daughter. There’s a heart those true stories pulled from the old diaries that’s very special to people. And . . . I had a very colorful and clear dream that I was directing Quilters.
K: What else about this title and its music hooked you?
C: The life that the settlers had in small towns seems a lot like here. This area is like a vortex of history and creative energy laminated together. I love old stories, and antiques, and old people who tell stories and the whole western way of life. I’m reading now diaries from the women and men who settled the West. And I am a real fan of folk and Celtic music.
K: What challenges do the actresses face telling real stories?
C: They have to take on the mantel . . . they will channel all these other characters and bring them from the page to the stage. Each will make real 10 to 15 different women. They face life in hard times and go through it together.
K: What led you to think of doing the show in the round?
C: I wanted to retread the show, in a new way, to revisit the show. So I wanted to reinvent Quilters in such a way that it would be fresh and current. Having never directed in the round, or seen a show done in this county that way, it just seemed like the right show at the right time. And Peter Wolf [of IT] said, “You want to do it in the round? I’ll show you how.” And I said, “Sold!”
K: It sounds like most of the visual experience will be very different than other productions.
C: I think the big difference is going to be that the cast is going to be very close to the audience, so it’s going to be less of a presentation and more of a group experience. We want the audience to be “inside” of the drama.
K: You’re right. When you’re in the first row or two of an in the round production, and the lights are spilling on you, you can’t help but feel like you’re in it.
C: The actors will be close to the surrounding audience. The exchange of energy will be interesting. In a typical theater building, only one wall is “active.”
K: Tell me about the script.
C: The show features 16 separate vignettes about different women in different situations – some comedic some dramatic. Sarah and her six daughters reappear throughout the story. The score features 16 songs all in the folk flavor. In rehearsal, I’d like the actresses to see the longer original diary entries from which the scenes/monologues were taken. This will deepen their understanding of the text.
K: How has the community responded to this idea?
C: The staff is very strong and pulls from current Imagination Theater regulars along with Theater El Dorado past regulars who thought they retired!! We have received commitments from strong, talented locals who will do everything from assemble the quilts to play the fiddle in the band.
K: Anyone in particular?
C: There are living history people in this area working on this show, like Ron Scofield, the master wagonmaker from Fiddletown, who’s making the wagon. Dr. Audrey Keebler is a docent who’s designing costumes; local quilting guilds are designing 16 quilts for us, and much more.
K: How do you keep track of all of this information? Oh, wait. I’ve seen your notebook.
C: I know. I keep everything. It’s just ridiculous. Look at this [her notebook is overflowing]. Ideas are still coming in weekly to me and I have to scramble to get them all down. It’s a very rich time for ideas.
K: What’s universal in Quilters that you want to be sure comes through in this production? Is there a theme or overall message or driving vision besides just telling this wonderful story?
C: What comes to mind just now is the community. Maybe I’m more aware of that now as a person who’s retired. The sense of community is really strong in this show. The production of this show, as well as the story being presented, and surely working with Imagination Theater is a joyful community experience for me.
K: That’s a lot of who you are, who Chrissie is. You maybe have more than one community, but your life is about the sense of community on a lot of different levels. Is that why you direct?
A: The process of doing a play brings out the “community.” For me, the process of directing is to experience release by being there in the moment. And to share it with willing souls who want to go on that journey together is to share those moments. And one of the strongest communities that I sense is among women, and the quilters are right in there. So it all filters down to a strong web or network of people with a lot of true grit, people who really have that sense of community and survival.
K: The stories really show how that sense of community helped those prairie women survive.
C: Yeah, it’s right in the script: “If I didn’t have the quiltin’ there are times I would have gone crazy.” And there’s the scene when a gal’s husband dies and she’s blind with grief, and her mom puts a piecin’ bag next to her and her hands reach out and start “piecin’ bits of scraps together” and it pulls her out of her depression.
K: And that is not any different today—it’s the same as it was back then. Our “community” surrounds us through the everyday stuff, and helps us get through difficulties.
C: The disease of being too busy surrounds our lives today. Doing a show is a big commitment of time to put on our lives, but I can’t imagine a better way to, once again, realize what is really important to us all – and that’s to connect to others. And that’s about as close to a universal truth as you’re going to find.
by Karen Harnden
Chrissie Addison is a veteran actor, director, teacher and theatre aficionado who will bring the musical Quilters to Placerville next winter for Imagination Theater. The following interview took place on June 16th over lunch on the shaded porch of Chrissie’s vintage home.
K: The obvious first question is why Quilters, and why now?
C: First of all, doing Quilters before [in 1987] was a peak experience for me on stage playing the eldest daughter. There’s a heart those true stories pulled from the old diaries that’s very special to people. And . . . I had a very colorful and clear dream that I was directing Quilters.
K: What else about this title and its music hooked you?
C: The life that the settlers had in small towns seems a lot like here. This area is like a vortex of history and creative energy laminated together. I love old stories, and antiques, and old people who tell stories and the whole western way of life. I’m reading now diaries from the women and men who settled the West. And I am a real fan of folk and Celtic music.
K: What challenges do the actresses face telling real stories?
C: They have to take on the mantel . . . they will channel all these other characters and bring them from the page to the stage. Each will make real 10 to 15 different women. They face life in hard times and go through it together.
K: What led you to think of doing the show in the round?
C: I wanted to retread the show, in a new way, to revisit the show. So I wanted to reinvent Quilters in such a way that it would be fresh and current. Having never directed in the round, or seen a show done in this county that way, it just seemed like the right show at the right time. And Peter Wolf [of IT] said, “You want to do it in the round? I’ll show you how.” And I said, “Sold!”
K: It sounds like most of the visual experience will be very different than other productions.
C: I think the big difference is going to be that the cast is going to be very close to the audience, so it’s going to be less of a presentation and more of a group experience. We want the audience to be “inside” of the drama.
K: You’re right. When you’re in the first row or two of an in the round production, and the lights are spilling on you, you can’t help but feel like you’re in it.
C: The actors will be close to the surrounding audience. The exchange of energy will be interesting. In a typical theater building, only one wall is “active.”
K: Tell me about the script.
C: The show features 16 separate vignettes about different women in different situations – some comedic some dramatic. Sarah and her six daughters reappear throughout the story. The score features 16 songs all in the folk flavor. In rehearsal, I’d like the actresses to see the longer original diary entries from which the scenes/monologues were taken. This will deepen their understanding of the text.
K: How has the community responded to this idea?
C: The staff is very strong and pulls from current Imagination Theater regulars along with Theater El Dorado past regulars who thought they retired!! We have received commitments from strong, talented locals who will do everything from assemble the quilts to play the fiddle in the band.
K: Anyone in particular?
C: There are living history people in this area working on this show, like Ron Scofield, the master wagonmaker from Fiddletown, who’s making the wagon. Dr. Audrey Keebler is a docent who’s designing costumes; local quilting guilds are designing 16 quilts for us, and much more.
K: How do you keep track of all of this information? Oh, wait. I’ve seen your notebook.
C: I know. I keep everything. It’s just ridiculous. Look at this [her notebook is overflowing]. Ideas are still coming in weekly to me and I have to scramble to get them all down. It’s a very rich time for ideas.
K: What’s universal in Quilters that you want to be sure comes through in this production? Is there a theme or overall message or driving vision besides just telling this wonderful story?
C: What comes to mind just now is the community. Maybe I’m more aware of that now as a person who’s retired. The sense of community is really strong in this show. The production of this show, as well as the story being presented, and surely working with Imagination Theater is a joyful community experience for me.
K: That’s a lot of who you are, who Chrissie is. You maybe have more than one community, but your life is about the sense of community on a lot of different levels. Is that why you direct?
A: The process of doing a play brings out the “community.” For me, the process of directing is to experience release by being there in the moment. And to share it with willing souls who want to go on that journey together is to share those moments. And one of the strongest communities that I sense is among women, and the quilters are right in there. So it all filters down to a strong web or network of people with a lot of true grit, people who really have that sense of community and survival.
K: The stories really show how that sense of community helped those prairie women survive.
C: Yeah, it’s right in the script: “If I didn’t have the quiltin’ there are times I would have gone crazy.” And there’s the scene when a gal’s husband dies and she’s blind with grief, and her mom puts a piecin’ bag next to her and her hands reach out and start “piecin’ bits of scraps together” and it pulls her out of her depression.
K: And that is not any different today—it’s the same as it was back then. Our “community” surrounds us through the everyday stuff, and helps us get through difficulties.
C: The disease of being too busy surrounds our lives today. Doing a show is a big commitment of time to put on our lives, but I can’t imagine a better way to, once again, realize what is really important to us all – and that’s to connect to others. And that’s about as close to a universal truth as you’re going to find.
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