It's not what you say, it's how you don't say it!

Michael Bishop, a talented veteran actor, conveys much of his character through body language and facial expression. See Charlie as "The Foreigner" this weekend before it is too late.

The bees come down. . .to the theater this Friday

Blit, we aren't making honey at the theater. We're providing great live theater in El Dorado County. No need to drive down the hill. Located on the El Dorado County Fairgrounds, Imagination Theater celebrates our tenth anniversary. Come see the comedy, The Foreigner, tonight!

Cast List for Grease

Thank you to all who auditioned.

Role
Danny - Joe Foley
Kenickie - Adam Turnbull
Sonny Lattieri - Nik Schram
Roger "Rump"/Teen Angel - Bradley Cameron
Dooty - Zachary Bredeson
Eugene - Steve Esling
Sandy - Shelby Wulfert
Rizzo - Krista Unverferth
Jan - Michelle Mansour
Marty - Danielle Badger
Frenchie - Kristine Miranda
Patty Simcox - Emily Barker
Cha Cha - Allison Luckenscheider
Miss Lynch - Christine Miner
Coach - Brian Goetz
Vince Fontaine - Grant Stellflug
Annoying Younger Sister - Caffrey Lynch

Chorus (Athletes, Prom Dancers, Students)
Angie Verzello
Selena Jimerson
Savannah Whiteley
Rachel Bluhm
Haley Clark
Beth Campbell
Elizabeth Herzog
Tim Murphy
Jeff Mosbacher

Cheerleaders and Chorus
Marissa Fuller
Sloane Martin
Katelyn Pecorilla

Do Wop Girls
Sarah Bennett
Sarah Erickson
Isabella Mini
Gwen Lacher

Band Chorus
Zacharie Button
Holly Salvestrin
Elizabeth Zangari

Tax Relief!

Now that your taxes are done. . .come out to see The Foreigner. It all adds up that this is a great ensemble and show! Tickets available online, by phone, or at the door.

Language Lessons

Learning a foreign language will never be the same after you meet The Foreigner. Sign up for your "lesson" this Friday, Saturday, or Sunday!

Come see what people are talking about. . .

(Charlie, "The Foreigner," discovers all is not what it seems at the lodge)

"I loved the show. It was well directed and put together by Lanny Langston. The cast was balanced, tight and played off of each other with grace and humor. It is a 'go to' show. Opening night jitters were not visible... the timing was perfect." --Lorrene

“So much fun to go on the thursday "student" nights and ask questions after the show! You don't leave the theater with the "how did they's" or who was that's.” --Carolyn

“It's a REALLY great production with a GREAT cast!! A Very funny show and a definite MUST SEE!!!!” --Jamie

“I saw this tonight -- it is WONDERFUL and I encourage EVERYONE to go see it! VERY well done, incredible acting and an amazing set! Would make a great date night!”
-- Debbie

“Thank you, thank you!! What an excellent performance this afternoon! Fine work from everyone, especially "Charlie," "Ellard," and "Owen," who we love to boo. And a really exemplary set! One of your best, I think. Very funny, and dealing with important issues, too.” --Ruthie

Tickets available online (www.it-tickets.org), by phone 530-642-0404, or at the door.

April 16-18 Final Weekend for The Foreigner

Click on image to make larger.

Discount Tickets for The Foreigner (4/10 show only)

On April 10, Imagination Theater is offering buy 1 get 1 free tickets for the 2:00 p.m. show of The Foreigner. This discount is only for that day only.

Make a date with The Foreigner

Tickets are available for all shows and can be ordered online, by phone, or at the door.

It's a REALLY great production with a GREAT cast!! A Very funny show and a definite MUST SEE!!!! -- Jamie E.

(Owen Musser shares his own opinions about foreigners)

Did you miss Student Night?

If you are a student and you missed the $10 night last Thursday, we wanted to remind you that tickets for students are always $10. What a deal! Come out and see the show these next two weekends and invite your friends. Tickets available online, by phone, or at the door.

Groups Tickets for The Foreigner

Charlie, The Foreigner, listens as Owen and David talk openly, not realizing he speaks English.

Interested in a social outing for your group this month? Imagination Theater has two more weekends of The Foreigner. This comedic farce runs through April 18. Friday shows are at 7:00 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday performances are at 2:00 p.m. Save off the regular ticket price and form a group (groups start at just 10 people). The savings are $4 to $5 off an adult ticket depending on the size of the group. Regular ticket prices are $17 adults, $14 seniors, and $10 children/students. The Foreigner is suggested for teens through adults.

Group tickets must be purchased by calling our box office at (530) 642-0404. If you do not have a group, but would still like to see the show, we have online ticketing available at http://www.imagination-theater.org/ or http://www.it-tickets.org/

Located on the El Dorado County Fairgrounds, Imagination Theater celebrates its' 10th Anniversary bringing quality, live community theater to Placerville and El Dorado County .

Only Two More Weekends of The Foreigner

I saw this tonight -- it is WONDERFUL and I encourage EVERYONE to go see it! VERY well done, incredible acting and an amazing set! Would make a great date night! -- Debbie

Ellard (Jouni Kirjola) and Catherine (Jessicah Neufeld) looking for David.

Great seats available for this Friday and Saturday

" I loved the show. It was well directed and put together by Lanny Langston. The cast was balanced, tight and played off of each other with grace and humor. It is a 'go to' show. Opening night jitters were not visible... the timing was perfect."

Lorrene Baum-Davis


Get your tickets now at www.it-tickets.org Order online for convenience and see seating chart for each show. Great seats are still available Friday, April 2 at 7:00 p.m. and Saturday, April 3 at 2:00 p.m.

The Foreigner Student Show

All tickets for tomorrow's show (April 1) are $10. Don't miss out on seeing this fun comedy by Larry Shue. Seating is also available for our other shows as well if you can't come this Thursday.
Go to www.it-tickets.org to order now.

Ellard (Jouni Kirjoli) and Charlie (Michael Bishop) having an entertaining breakfast in this fun comedy.

Dracula Filming - Food Needs

Imagination Theater in partnership with Porter Media Group and Nicknig Films are seeking donation for the following items to feed the cast and crew while filming in El Dorado County April 24th and 25th. A local chef Kevin O’Connor has generously agreed to donate his culinary expertise to plan and serve the meals. Please contact Lanny at 530-903-6361 to coordinate your donation:

List of Items:

Beverages:
1. Apple juice – 3 containers

Snack provisions:
1. Fresh fruit – 3 bunches of bananas, 2 bags of apples 2 bags or oranges and 3 bunches of green grapes
2. Nuts - 3 canisters of mixed nuts
3. Bagels – 3 dozen
4. Cream cheese – 3 large containers
5. Red vines – 2 canisters
6. Beef Jerky – 3 bags
7. Cookies – 3 dozen
8. Chips – 3 bags
9. Pretzels – 2 bags

Dinner items for meals:

Saturday night meal – 50 people
1. Ground beef 12.5 lbs
2. Taco size flour tortilla's (100 count)
3. Refried beans (vegetarian) 8 30oz cans
4. Cheese 2 bags of cheese
5. Spanish rice 16 boxes
6. Green salad 3 bags of lettuce
7. Sour cream 2 24oz tubs
8. Tortilla Chips 4 22oz bags
9. Salsa 2 70oz jars

Sunday night meal – 65 people
1. 40 Chicken breast boneless skinless
2. 5 boxes 16 oz Penne Pasta
3. Asparagus – 6 bunches
4. 10oz heavy cream
5. 4 yeast packets
6. 17 oz bottle of olive oil
7. 4 bags of flour
8. 4 bags of mixed greens

Foreigner Opens Friday, March 26 at 7:00 p.m.

Get your tickets at www.it-tickets.org or pay at the door. Plenty of seats available for this weekend's matinees on Saturday and Sunday at 2:00 p.m. The box office opens a half an hour in advance of the show.

The Foreigner -- Further Study (for students)

• Many critics of The Foreigner imply that the play has only “commercial” appeal, that it is not much different from the typical television sitcom. Compare Shue’s play with one or more of your favorite television sitcoms and argue for or against this assertion.

• Some critics of The Foreigner claim that the play reduces southerners to “politically incorrect” stereotypes. Investigate the way southerners are portrayed in both serious literature and in popular entertainment, comparing these treatments with Shue’s portrayal of Betty, Catherine, Ellard, David Lee, and Owen.

• Research the history of the Ku Klux Klan in America and describe in detail the status and activity of the Klan in America in the early- 1980s.

• Klanwatch, a branch of the Southern Poverty Law Center, has monitored Klan and other hate group activity since 1981. By the late- 1990s, Klanwatch was aware of over 400 racist and neoNazi hate groups in America as well as 500 “militia” groups. Research this explosion of hate-group activities in America in the latter half of the twentieth century and discuss whether a comedy like The Foreigner can hope to ameliorate such a social problem.

• Research the psychological condition of shyness, bashfulness, or timidity. What causes it in real life? How does overcoming real-life shyness compare with Charlie’s triumph over shyness in The Foreigner?

About the play, The Foreigner

(from Answers.com)

The Foreigner was first produced at the Milwaukee (Wisconsin) Repertory Theatre in January of 1983, and the boisterous laughter it created there made the play an enormous local success. Named by the American Theatre Critics Association as one of the best regional theatre plays for the 1983-1984 season, The Foreigner was subsequently produced Off-Broadway in November of 1984 at the Astor Place Theatre in New York City. Lukewarm responses from the critics failed to quench the play’s enormous audience appeal, and as Laurie Winer reported in a 1988 New York Times article, “one of the few Off Broadway plays to overcome negative reviews, The Foreigner played 685 performances and fully recouped its $250, 000 investment.”

Because of the extraordinary commercial success of The Foreigner, Shue’s other plays came to the attention of American theatre companies. His earlier farce, The Nerd, had gone from its successful Milwaukee production in 1981 to similarly successful productions in England. It played in Manchester in 1982 and at the Aldwych Theatre in London in 1984, where it earned more money than any other American play on the West End. Two years after Shue’s death, in 1987, The Nerd was produced on Broadway, and eventually his more serious play, Wenceslas Square (1984), became popular as well. These plays are now staples of university, regional, and community theatres all over America.

In 1980, Shue studied with a theatre company in Japan. He developed the central idea for The Foreigner when he discovered that the Japanese would tolerate even his most bizarre behavior (because he was unaware of Japanese social customs), dismissing his inappropriate actions as the conduct of an outsider. The Foreigner remains Shue’s most highly regarded work and is considered the most perfectly realized of his plays.

More about the background of the author and his death in a plane crash here.

Meet the Stage Manager for The Foreigner

Adeline Penn has been enthralled by all things theater since she was a child. She has a B.A. in Theater Arts from Ohio Wesleyan University including an apprenticeship at Falmouth Playhouse where she worked with such theater luminaries as Eli Wallach, Donald O’Connor, John Travolta and Tennessee Williams. Following graduation Adeline was stage manager for a small theater in northern Ohio before sidestepping into a career in radio in Virginia. When not on the air she participated in local community theater in several roles as well as stage managing a number of productions. Another side step brought her to California where she took a long break from theater to perfect her alpine skiing, marry a ski patrolman, and raise a family. After supporting Imagination Theater for many years as a patron, Adeline was happy to return to active participation with a couple of small roles and as part of the backstage crew in The Wizard of Oz. She is looking forward to her role as a Nosferatu in the upcoming production of Dracula. Adeline thanks her children Joseph and Jackie for their love and support. Most of all, she thanks her husband Paul for his patience, encouragement, and love.

Meet "Froggy" from The Foreigner

Richard (Rick) Gaylord (Staff Sergeant Froggy Lesueur)

Rick is delighted to be performing the role of Froggy LeSueur in this, his favorite play with this very talented cast. Live performing is one of Rick’s oldest memories as he began singing in church choirs about 1957. His first acting role (1980) was in San Jose Civic Light Opera’s Paint Your Wagon as Pete. A telephone technician since 1972 (Owner of Rick Gaylord’s TeleFIX) Rick has appeared in over 45 community theater plays and as lead performer in over 10 of those and has occasionally shared the stage with professionals such as Noel Harrison and Jed Allen.

In film, Rick was the lead actor for Bryan Darling’s short film, Catharsis and was the Casting Consultant for one of Bryan’s more recent projects, Lily. In video, Rick sold commercial advertising and performed on both sides of the camera for scores of El Dorado County television commercials, many including Rick's voice-overs. Rick was also producer and editor for a 30 minute video documentary about the local movie Mistaken by Mike Turney.

Rick’s favorite stage role was Charlie in Theatre El Dorado's 1997 production of The Foreigner and his more recent efforts include Greater Tuna (7 males, 2 females & 1 dog) Godspell (John the Baptist & Judas), Big River (the Duke), Music Man (Marcellus Washburn), A Christmas Carol twice (once as Bob Cratchit & once as Scrooge) and Anything Goes (Billy). Rick's award winning roles were Ali Hakim in Oklahoma and the Tin Man in The Wizard of Oz.

Comedy is Rick’s favorite (and most challenging) performing genre leading him to coin the phrase “levity is the only way to fly”. Rick is a private pilot and a grandfather of five, who is very grateful for his family and especially his wife, Marsha, for her continued support.

Meet "Betty" from The Foreigner Cast

Linda Wolfe (Betty Meeks)

The Foreigner marks Linda Wolfe’s return to the IT stage after 6 years. She has been active in theater since the age of 10. As an adult, some of Linda’s favorite roles have been Lady Macbeth in Macbeth in Juneau, Alaska, The Wicked Witch of the West in The Wizard of Oz at Theater El Dorado in 1999, and M’Lynn in Steel Magnolias at Imagination Theater in 2004. Linda has also assistant directed several shows at TED and IT, including The Foreigner in 1997, Meet Me in St. Louis in 1998, and Breaking Legs in 2007. Linda teaches at Charles Brown Elementary School and coaches their Oral Interpretation team. She would like to thank her husband, Peter, for his support and their shared love of theater, and her children, Brian and Sarah. Special thanks to daughter, Sarah, for her professional makeup design for Betty. She also thanks Lanny Langston for letting her play this spunky old lady and the awesome Foreigner cast for an amazing ensemble experience. Finally, Linda would like to give a big ol’ southern hug to Larin Hinson, Betsy Hawkins, and Paula Deen (on the Food Network) for their dialect coaching!

Meet "Owen" from The Foreigner

Grant Stellflug (Owen Musser)
After living and working in different spots throughout the country, Grant is excited to be back in his hometown and acting again. In 1996, Grant was cast in Godspell. Since then he has been fortunate to be part of quite a few wonderful shows, playing roles ranging from the twisted, nitrous huffing dentist in Little Shop of Horrors, to being on trial for murdering a fellow marine in A Few Good Men. We last saw Grant as a Marine Corps Captain looking for bad guys in Imagination Theater’s production of The Amorous Ambassador. When not building a set or memorizing lines, you’ll likely find Grant glued to his Playstation 3 or watching some gruesome B rated horror movie. He has been fortunate during The Foreigner to work with such a great cast and crew and he looks forward to his next opportunity with Imagination Theater!

Meet "Catherine" from The Foreigner Cast

Jessicah Neufeld (Catherine Simms)
Jessica is overjoyed to make The Foreigner her debut performance with Imagination Theater. She was raised in the hills of Somerset, just east of Placerville, but was too intimidated while growing up to audition for any of ITs productions. Currently she is living, working, going to school, and working on stage and film in Sacramento. Her past highlights include Keely and Du (Keely), The Three Musketeers (Constance), and Angel Street (Nancy). She is also delighted to play Lucy Westenra in the IT! and Porter Media Group production of Dracula this October. Next spring, she is moving to San Francisco to pursue a BFA in Theatre. She thanks Lanny for embracing her in the IT! family, her pragmatically supportive parents, Glenn and Joyce, and her everyday cheerleader, David. She couldn't do it without them!

Meet "Ellard" from The Foreigner Cast

Jouni Kirjola (Ellard Simms)
Jouni has been performing for local audiences for the past 15 years. He serves as Drama & Creative Arts Director for Green Valley Community Church and was most recently seen as Mr. Flintwell in GVCC’s original production The Christmas Special. Jouni has written, directed, and acted in all of the Green Valley musicals since 1994. Although he has mostly performed in original productions, he has also been seen locally in productions of Charlie’s Aunt, It’s A Wonderful Life, and Joseph and The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. Besides stepping into the part of Ellard, Jouni is also currently preparing for a 2nd year overseeing GVCC’s successful dinner theater, which opens in May. Regarding The Foreigner, Jouni thanks Lanny for his stellar leadership and guidance.

Meet "Rev. David" of The Foreigner

Ben Miller (Reverend David Marshall Lee)
Ben is happy to be making his return to this theater after nine years. During this time, he performed with a comedy troupe called I Can’t Believe Its Not Comedy which performed in Sacramento and several other cities including Los Angeles and Phoenix. Ben’s most recent performance was in Main Street Theater Works’ Three Musketeers. He would like to dedicate his performance to his Grandpa.

Meet "Charlie" from The Foreigner Cast

Michael Bishop (Charlie Baker) – Born and bred in England and now a resident of Northern California, Michael has enjoyed dressing up and performing since the age of three. He was last seen on stage acting out the part(s) of the frazzled stage manager and understudy, Tim Allgood, in Chautauqua Playhouse’s energetic 2008 comedy production of Noises Off! Outside the Sacramento area, Michael has performed a number of Shakespeare character roles including the Duke in As You Like It, Horatio in Hamlet, the Fool in an audio recording of King Lear, and a personal favorite, Malvolio in Twelfth Night. Working with a small ensemble led by his friend, New York-based actor and director Andre Bolouri, Michael has performed in modern stage adaptations of classic tales ranging from a rapid-fire, five person rework of Shakespeare’s Tempest to the lead role in Quetzlcoatl, the Legend of the Feathered Serpent. His most dramatic memory is playing the part of Socrates in a vivid presentation of the Trial of Socrates publicly re-enacted at the ancient Theatre of Dionysus beneath the Acropolis in Athens.

Grease is the Word! Audition Information

GREASE SING-A-LONG
Sunday, March 21st-7:00-9:00PM (New Date)
Anyone who is interested is invited to come sing the songs from Grease at the first rehearsal of the "Fuzzy Dice." This is the band that will be playing the rehearsals and performances of the show. This sing-a-long is just an opportunity to sing the songs, get in the rock-and-roll mood, and have fun with the music. Anyone, regardless of age, or whether they are actually going to audition for the show is encouraged to participate. No preparation is necessary... this is not an audition. Lyrics sheets will be provided.

GREASE DANCE AUDITION (Mandatory)
Monday, April 5th, 6:30-9:00pm at Vanessa's Foothill Dance Studio in Shingle Springs. Participation in this audition is required for ALL ROLES in Grease. Please be prompt. Wear comfortable and loose-fitting clothing and jazz or character shoes if you have theme. Auditioners will learn simple combinations and jitterbug steps.

GREASE GENERAL AUDITION
Saturday, April 10th, 9:00am-1:00 pm
This will be the general audition for all roles. (Parking in above lot due to Kids' Expo)
Those interested in being a Doo Wop singer must come to this audition.

Singing Requirements:
All Auditioners will be required to sing a rock-and-roll type song and provide their own karaoke backing CD. An audition accompanist will not be provided. Auditioners being considered for lead roles by the Directors may be asked to also sing a song from the show with the live band that will be provided. Lyrics for the songs from the show will be provided at the audition.

Reading and Improvisation:
Auditioners will be asked to do cold readings from the script and group improvisations.

Partner Dancing:
If time permits, auditioners will participate in jitterbug partner dancing exercises. All auditioners should therefore wear loos-fitting comfortable clothing and suitable dancing shoes... no sandals or bare-feet!

GREASE CALL-BACK AUDITION
Sunday, April 11th, 6:00-9:00PM.

This will be the CALL-BACK AUDITION for all roles. Due to the anticipated large number of auditioners, this Call-Back Audition is likely to be required for some, and maybe all, of the auditioners--- so all auditioners are asked to remain available.

Fabulous 50's Fundraiser Coming This August

Get out your poodle skirts, your bowling shirts, and mark your calendar now for Imagination Theater’s 3rd Annual Silent and Live Auction Fundraiser on Friday, August 20. Don’t miss out on this fun event!

We are looking for volunteers to help before and/or during the event. This includes decorating, putting together gift baskets, sound and lighting, registration and check out etc. If you want to help with this event or have something you wish to donate, please give Lanny a call at 530-642-0404 or 530-903-6361. Keep live theater in our community!

2011 IT! Musical QUILTERS Stitches Past to Present

An old friend is returning to town. The musical Quilters, originally presented in Placerville in 1987, will be back in March, 2011 as a production of Imagination Theater, in conjunction with Ensemble Theatre Company. The director, Chrissie Addison, was in the original cast and can’t wait to share her new vision of this regional theatre favorite. Written by Barbara Damashek and Molly Newman, Quilters is the story of the courageous women who moved west to help settle this country, recording “the pieces of their lives” through the work of their hands. Their quilt blocks are first presented individually to represent episodes in their lives; the blocks eventually form a quilt that combines all of their stories into one.

In the 1987 production, construction of the various quilt blocks was done by local quilters, who donated their time. Chrissie intends to again tap into this rich source of talent for the quilts, but she wants to add another element. Since the finished quilt is called the “legacy” quilt, Chrissie wants it to be made from donated fabric. If someone has a favorite scrap of cotton (or other soft, non-synthetic fabric), that they would be willing to part with, she hopes they will let it be used for the construction of the quilts. Donated materials could be yardage, but it could also be skirts, tablecloths, aprons, or anything that could be cut up and re-used. Just as women of the prairie did, today’s quilters will be stitching together used fabric which is not only “green,” but authentic in living history.

Even though auditions are not until late October, Chrissie and her staff are already hard at work on all that goes into mounting a major musical. They would like to begin collecting fabric on March 15th, so the quilting volunteers have plenty of time for their creations. Collection will continue until there is enough fabric for the quilts needed. Fabric can be dropped off at the Imagination Theater office or at the Mountain Democrat on Main Street in Placerville. What’s more, if there is a story behind the fabric donated, please share that, too, by including a short note. For more information, or if you’d like to volunteer to work on Quilters, email Chrissie Addison at foothillsinger@comcast.net.

Foreigner Tickets Available Online

Get your tickets now for the best seats. (Click on image below if you'd like to make it larger.)

$10 Ticket Night for The Foreigner

Tell your friends and save some money! Student Night for The Foreigner is Thursday, April 1 at 7:00 p.m. All seats for this show are $10—whether you are a current student or student at heart. No fooling! A short question and answer session follows this performance. Tickets can be purchased online at www.imagination-theater.org.

Other shows are also available from March 26 through April 18 and are listed here or on our ticketing site. Tickets are regularly $17 Adults, $14 Seniors (age 55+), and Students $10 (through age 18).

Online Ticketing Tips

IT! is excited to offer online ticketing for our upcoming shows. Currently, we have tickets available for The Foreigner. Purchasing your tickets online (through PayPal) is not only easy, but convenient. There is a "How to/FAQ" section at the top of the screen that walks you through the process. However, here are a few tips from the IT! Insider.

1. You'll need to set up an account. It is simple, quick, and we only need some very basic information. Once it is set up , you can log in with your username and password to purchase tickets. If you just want to view what is available, you can look at the seating charts without logging in.

2. When seats are "on hold" they are blue. They stay that way for an hour or until you log out. If you wish to remove holding them, you simply take them out of your shopping cart. Making changes can be done from your cart.

3. The default setting when purchasing your tickets is the adult ticket price, you change the category once it is in your cart. You'll see the total at the top of your screen to the right. It includes the $1 per ticket service fee.

4. After paying through PayPal, return to the ticketing site to print out your receipt. That receipt is your ticket. We no longer will be mailing tickets.

5. Sponsors will soon be getting their own special code to select their own seats (green). Currently, they can contact the box office and I will block their tickets for them.

Online Ticketing Now Available

Happy Valentine's Day from Imagination Theater!

Online ticketing is now available!

Get your tickets for The Foreigner now at the IT! Website at www.imagination-theater.org or go direct to the ticketing site at www.it-tickets.org. Although it is easy, I'll be posting some helpful user tips this week. Stay tuned.

Tour the Big Apple in March 2011

Start planning now for Imagination Theater’s third trip to New York City. Take a trip to the Big Apple, March 2-7, 2011. This is wonderful time of year to tour the City. We will take in some Broadway shows, tour the NBC studios, Radio City Music Hall, Ground Zero, and much more. Price ($2,288 for adults and $1,973 for children) includes airfare, lodging, meals, and several Broadway shows. Limited space is available as the group is small. Sign up now before prices go up on April 1, 2010. Contact Lanny Langston for more detailed information at 530-903-6361.

Anne Frank Show Dates

The Diary of Anne Frank

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.

Tickets on Sale for The Foreigner this week

Imagination Theater presents Larry Shue’s comedic farce, The Foreigner, which opens Friday, March 26 and runs through Sunday, April 18. Friday evening performances are at 7:00 p.m. Saturday and Sunday performances are at 2:00 p.m. There is no show on Easter, April 4. There is one Thursday show, April 1, and all seats are $10—no fooling. Ticket prices for all other shows are $17 adults, $14 seniors, and $10 children/students. Group discounts are also available through the box office only. The Foreigner is suggested for teens through adults.

The Foreigner is the hilarious comedy about Charlie, an extremely shy proper Englishman who has a fear of speaking to strangers. He brought by his friend, Froggy, to a fishing lodge in rural Georgia, where Froggy tells everyone that Charlie is a foreigner who doesn't understand a word of English. Soon, everyone is fussing over and confiding in him. Charlie quickly discovers that all is not what it seems at the lodge and must somehow save the day - without revealing his cover!

The play is directed by Lanny Langston, produced by Peter Wolfe, and set designed by Virgil Toothaker. Imagination Theater is located at 100 Placerville Drive, on the El Dorado County Fairgrounds in Placerville. Call (530) 642-0404 for more information and to make reservations.

Happy Groundhog Day!

Anne Frank Center Link

This is a wonderful link about Anne Frank:

The Anne Frank Center in New York City.

Please consider getting to know Anne, her family, and friends at our summer production this July. If you read the book as a young teen, get reaquainted with the story. It will give you a renewed perspective about hope in the midst of adversity and relationships that transcends time. You will not see her story the same way that you did years ago.

Contact the box office for details: 530-642-0404

Grease Auditon Dates

Mark your calendars now. Auditions for our December 2010 production, Grease, will be held on Saturday, April 10 with call backs on Sunday, April 11. We are excited about this show as it celebrates Imagination Theater’s tenth year bringing live theater to our community. More details (including time, what you will need to prepare, and parking information) will follow soon.

Dracula Date Update - October 2010

This past year we experienced many bumps in the road with our multi-media production of Dracula. We completed half of the film portion, but unfortunately we were rained out and could not complete the final scenes.

Our desire is to bring you a quality show so the production dates are moved to October 8 through 31, 2010. This new date works really well for the show and gives us the needed time to finish the filming and production work.

If you would like additional information, please call Lanny at 530-903-6361.

Imagination Theater on Facebook

This is just a reminder that you can also find information about Imagination Theater on Facebook. Join our group. It's a great way to learn about upcoming shows and auditions--and share them easily with your Facebook friends.

Registration for Sugarloaf begins Feb. 6

Sugarloaf Fine Arts Camp 2010

Session #1, July 11-17, 2010
Session #2, July 18-24, 2010

Sugarloaf Fine Arts Camp is open to students who will have completed grades five through eleven by July 2010 and who would enjoy the opportunity to explore and to develop an interest in the visual and performing arts. The Sly Park Environmental Education Center (SPEEC) in Pollock Pines, California, is the camp site.

Go to the camp website for detailed registration information: http://www.sugarloafcamp.com/

EDHS presents George Orwell's "1984"

Jan 28, 29, 30 & Feb 3, 4, 5, 6 at 7:30 p.m.
Doors open at 7:00 p.m.
$8 Students, $10 Adults

Tickets available at the door or in advance at www.studio81.org

The play, 1984 is adapted from the novel of the same name by George Orwell. It is the story of a future world where war is a constant (only the enemy changes) and Big Brother controls the thoughts and actions of its people.

Winston seemingly is enfolded in The Party. He works for the Ministry of Truth in the Records Department, destroying old stories which might show that the Big Brother was wrong and changes those stories to fit what is happening in the world today. When he gets home, another side of him emerges. He meets and falls in love with Julia, whom he first assumes is a loyal member of The Party and perhaps even works for the Thought Police. Together they suspect that there is an underground group led by the Enemy of the People, Emmanuel Goldstein. They want to join this group. They approach O’Brien, a member of the Inner Party, whom they suspect is a member of the underground. Winston and Julia learn that it's difficult to hide from Big Brother.

Smith Flat Charter presents Cyrano De Bergerac

Cyrano de Bergerac is set in France in 1640 during one of the many skirmishes with Spain over the southwestern boarder of France. Cyrano is the head of the Gascony Cadets, a fierce military division known for their aggressive nature, bravery, and sheer arrogance. Deeply in love with his cousin Roxanna, but afraid she will reject him because of his freakish nose, Cyrano suggest that he woo Roxanna with his poetry through one of his cadets, the strikingly handsome Christian.

Performance Schedule

January
THU 21 FRI 22 SAT 23
WED 27 THU 28 FRI 29

Doors open at 7:00 p.m.
Show starts at 7:30 p.m.

For further information and tickets go to:
http://smithflatdrama.com/
and click on the reservation button.

Show Dates of The Foreigner

These are the scheduled dates for this upcoming comedy:

Friday, March 26 at 7:00 p.m. (Opening Night)

Saturday, March 27 at 2:00 p.m.

Sunday, March 28 at 2:00 p.m.

Thursday, April 1 at 7:00 p.m. (Student Night)

Friday, April 2 at 7:00 p.m.

Saturday, April 3 at 2:00 p.m.

(no show on Easter Sunday)

Friday, April 9 at 7:00 p.m.

Saturday, April 10 at 2:00 p.m.

Sunday, April 11 at 2:00 p.m.

Friday, April 16 at 7:00 p.m.

Saturday, April 17 at 2:00 p.m.

Sunday, April 18 at 2:00 p.m.

Coming soon . . .online ticketing!

By February, we should be up and running with online ticketing. You'll be able to order at home, at all hours even in your jammies.

Stay tuned. . .

IT! Sponsorship

Happy New Year!

We hope you enjoyed our productions and concerts this past year. Our 2009 Season offered something for everyone. Besides our two concerts: Mary Youngblood and Joni Morris, our theater season began with the spring production Man of La Mancha. In October, the two man comedy, Greater Tuna, was well received. Finally, our season concluded with the heartwarming story Disney’s Beauty and the Beast. We are proud of how far we have come and we couldn’t have done it without you. Also, thank you to those who supported us during our second annual live and silent auction fundraiser, An Affair to Remember. Your help during these tough economic times has made a tremendous difference.

Our 2010 Season starts off with the comedy, The Foreigner, opening March 26 and running through April 18th. Next, the drama, The Diary of Anne Frank, runs July 9 through to July 25. In October, the haunting multi-media production of Dracula will open. (We are very excited to finally bring this to you!) Rounding out the year is our 10th Anniversary and the return of Grease.

Having a community theater in El Dorado County is as important as ever. As a non-profit organization, we rely on our sponsors and ticket sales to produce high quality shows. We hope that you consider becoming a sponsor for 2010. Season tickets, public recognition, and advance reservations are just some of the rewards.

Levels of Sponsorship at IT!
(season tickets are for IT! produced shows only)

Stage Crew: $60-159 year
1 Season Ticket

Stage Manager: $160-299 year
2 Season Tickets

Actor: $300-499 year
3 Season Tickets

Music Director (a.k.a. "The 500 Club"): $500-999 year
4 Season Tickets

Director: $1000-2499 year
6 Season Tickets

Producer: $2500+ year
8 Season Tickets

Placerville and El Dorado County would not be the same without the heart and soul of community theater, Imagination Theater. Your contribution, whether large or small, will make a difference. Thank you.

Checks can be mailed to our mailing addresss: P.O. Box 3303, Diamond Springs, CA 95619. You can also contact the box office at 530-642-0404 and pay with a Visa or Mastercard. Your contribution is tax deductible.

Once again, thank you again for your support. We can only grow with your support and belief in what we do.

Sincerely,

Lanny and Tish Langston
Peter Wolfe and Linda Wolfe

Thank you IT! Sponsors

With great appreciation, we thank our IT! Sponsors

Producers:
Lanny and Tish Langston,

Peter and Linda Wolfe,

Joyce Amlick,

Dr. Dean & Jennifer Sands

Umpqua Bank

Directors:

El Dorado Community Foundation,

Intel,

Wal*Mart,

Weinberger Law Firm

Christine Addison

Zacharie Button,

Vince & Kathleen Mini

Dave & Shirley Smythe,

Joyce Sobelman,

David & Dorothy Taylor

Music Directors “500 Club”:

49er Federal Credit Union,

Pete and Kate Barbá,

Rick Gaylord & Marsha Myers,

Brian & Sarah Goetz,

Carl Hagen Agency – Farmers Insurance,

Dr. Richard Henifin DDS,

Virgil & Lucile Langston,

Vince & Kathleen Mini,

Minuteman Press,

John and Cindy Mosbacher,

Cal & Debora Reynolds,

Robinson’s Pharmacy,

Barbara Thomsen,

Catherine Winter

Actors:
El Dorado Savings Bank,

Maryann Roman,

Dan & Sheryl Trainor

Stage Managers:

Alan & Linda Baracco,

Crenna-Armstrong Family

Elder Options,

Susan Felton,

Jerry & Beckie Galloway,

Bill & Sue Greer,

Ron and Doris Henke,

Randy & Diane Palmer,

Metropolitan Arts Partnership,

Jim & Marie Moore,

Dennis & Debbie Murphy,

Dan & Liz Neumann,

Candace Niel,

Louise Smith,

Patrick & Nancy Weddle

Chris & Jennifer Weston

Stage Crew:

Arnolds for Awards,

S. Jean Castberg,

Daniel & Robin Clark,

Haley Clark,

John Herrman,

Robert and Lili Joy,

The McCrea Family,

Judy Puthuff,

Dotti Ann Rice,

Charles & Betty Ripley,

Ken & Jette Shears,

Western Sign

(list current as of 1/15/10)

Discounted Wicked Tickets

Start the New Year off with a trip to Oz and save on shows (at the San Francisco Orpheum) through February 28. Get up to $30 off orchestra, loge, and mezzanine seats with special priced tickets.

Get $50 ticket for shows Tuesday - Thursday
Get $75 ticket for shows Friday - Sunday

Enter code 26GOOD in the Special Offers box when you order through Ticketmaster.

(I'd have copied the email I received, but I'm not THAT tech savvy to get it to work.)

Our next production - The Foreigner

Several people have asked me about our next production, The Foreigner. No, we are not hosting the well known 70's and 80's rock band. It is a comedy written by Larry Shue. Here is a synopsis of this playwright's farce.

In Shue's comic gem, you'll meet an unforgettable cast of zany characters. Charlie, an extremely shy proper Englishman who has a fear of speaking to strangers, is brought by his friend, "Froggy," to a fishing lodge in rural Georgia, where Froggy tells everyone that Charlie is a foreigner who doesn't understand a word of English! Soon, everyone is fussing over and confiding in Charlie, including Betty, the kindly caretaker of this lodge; Catherine, a beautiful debutante engaged to be married; Ellard, her sweet but slow brother; and David, the minister to whom Catherine is betrothed. Charlie quickly discovers that all is not what it seems at the lodge and must somehow save the day - without revealing his cover! The Village Voice fittingly described this wildly funny play as "...a constant invitation to relax and laugh at the foolishness of life." We invite you to come on down, relax, and laugh with us at Imagination Theater this spring.

Mary Youngblood in Angels Camp on February 6

Although we had originally planned for Mary Youngblood to come to Imagination Theater this January, she will not be returning this year. Her next concert is at the Bret Harte Theatre in Angels Camp on Saturday, February 6 at 3:00 p.m. Tickets can be purchased at www.highsierratickets.com

Imagination Theater! 2010 Season

The Foreigner
March 26th – April 18th

Diary of Anne Frank
July 9th – 25th

Dracula
October 8th – 31st

Grease
December 3rd – 26th



IT! Box Office (530) 642-0404

Box Office Closed through New Year

The box office will re-open on Tuesday, January 5. We have some great things planned for 2010. See you next year!

Learning Opportunities on See a Play

These are current learning opportunities posted at seeaplay.com. They also have listings of shows in the greater Sacramento area, audition notices, and employment opportunities. They are worth checking out.

Just click on the class you're interested in:
Acting classes for adults, kids, and teens, Actor's Workshop of Sacramento
Acting schools nationwide
Coaching for Actor-Singers, Artistic Differences Theatre Company
College and university theatre programs in the area
Dance Education Program, Woodland Opera House
Ensemble for Kids and Teens, Sacramento Theatre Company (STC-2)
Improv, Mosaic Acting Theatre Ensemble
Improv Group, MidTown Players
Musical Theatre Class, Rocklin Youth Theatre Company
Ongoing Classes and Workshops, Stage 9 Theatre-Garbeau’s
Scene Study Class and Private Lessons, Actor's Workshop of Sacramento
Snoopy Jr. Training Workshop
Women in Theatre, Falcon's Eye Theatre
Workshops and Private Lessons, Allen Schmeltz Productions
***
Read about this month's featured theatre in the spotlight section of seeaplay.com!
See employment opportunities from The League of Sacramento Theatre members!
See volunteer opportunities from The League of Sacramento Theatre members!
Thank you for your interest in live theatre in the Sacramento region! If you have any suggestions or comments for seeaplay.com, please let us know.

- The League of Sacramento Theatres

Miss the show? Buy the DVD!

If you are interested, DVDs of Beauty and the Beast can be purchased by contacting Roger Ruby at rjruby@comcast.net or 916-358-5011. The price is $30. Each performance is taped with three "pro-sumer" video cameras providing high quality close-up and wide angle shots. They also include opening and closing credits.

Happy Holidays from IT!

Things people do when not involved in a play over Christmas.

Last Minute Shopping. . .

Buy your tickets now! The most seats are available are for:

Saturday 12/26 at 7:00 p.m.

Don't miss out on this wonderful show. Tickets are $17 Adult, $14 Senior, and Children $10. 530-642-0404

Getting Tickets (Office Hours)

Imagination Theater is located on the El Dorado County Fairgrounds. The fairgrounds are closed during the holiday break.

We we will only be in the office during our remaining shows: Monday, December 21, Saturday, December 26, and Sunday, December 27. See post below for show times and availability. If you are interested in purchasing tickets, please call soon. We will be checking our theater voice mail and doing our best to set aside seats for you. See you at the show! 530-642-0404

Monday Night Drama

Set your Tivo, your VCR, or whatever technology is available to you and come see Beauty and the Beast on December 21st. Monday Night Football can wait. This is the last show before Christmas. The show begins at 7:00 p.m. There are still great seats available. 530-642-0404

Tickets are selling like hotcakes!

Get them today at 530-642-0404

Additional Show Added!

Another show of Disney's Beauty and the Beast was just added due to high demand and sold out shows. This show is scheduled for Monday evening, December 21 at 7:00 p.m. Currently, excellent seating is available. Call the theater soon to purchase your seats at 530-642-0404.

Feeling Beastly?

Feeling beastly about power outages and snow damage at home, stress at work, and just those wintery blues? Take some time out and escape to Belle's small provincial town and the enchanted castle. Check out our seating availability (see post below) and come out to the show. Tickets can be purchased by calling 530-642-0404.

Tick Tock Cogsworth Rocks!

Congratulations to Cogsworth. He was voted favorite Enchanted Character of the castle in our very unofficial blog poll. Come see the show and figure out what makes him tick! The cast is incredibly talented and bring the characters to life in their own unique way. You won't be disappointed. Call 530-642-0404 for tickets.

Yes Virginia, there is a Sponsor Night. . .

Thank you to our sponsors that keep local, live theater in our community. Though we have had wintery weather, the show must go on. We'd love to see our sponsors and their guest tonight at the theater. Event starts at 5:30 p.m. and show begins at 7:00 p.m.

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