http://dctheatrescene.com Washington DC's Liveliest Theater Website Sat, 11 Feb 2012 20:43:35 +0000 en hourly 1 http://wordpress.org/?v=3.2.1 2009-2010 lorraine@dctheatrescene.com (DC Theatre Scene) lorraine@dctheatrescene.com (DC Theatre Scene) 1440 http://dctheatrescene.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/02/dcts.jpg http://dctheatrescene.com 144 144 http://dctheatrescene.com/?feed=podcast Lively up close interviews and audio plays Podcasts interviews and audio shows from the Washington DC area theatre scene. podcasts, DC theatre, radio plays, DC Theatre Scene DC Theatre Scene lorraine@dctheatrescene.com no no http://dctheatrescene.com/2010/11/16/harry-connick-jr-on-his-happy-elf/ http://dctheatrescene.com/2010/11/16/harry-connick-jr-on-his-happy-elf/#comments Tue, 16 Nov 2010 19:41:02 +0000 Joel Markowitz http://dctheatrescene.com/?p=20951 http://dctheatrescene.com/2010/11/16/harry-connick-jr-on-his-happy-elf/feed/ 2 0:09:50 There was plenty of excitement at Montgomery College on Saturday, November 13th when I arrived to interview  Harry Connick, Jr. before the press opening of The Happy Elf. Harry Connick Jr. was very grateful that Adventure Theatre and Montgomery Co[...] There was plenty of excitement at Montgomery College on Saturday, November 13th when I arrived to interview  Harry Connick, Jr. before the press opening of The Happy Elf. Harry Connick Jr. was very grateful that Adventure Theatre and Montgomery College were co-producing this first full production of his new children’s musical. Plenty of Broadway talent eagerly joined the project: Tony Award winning director John Rando (Urinetown, The Musical), set design by Beowulf Boritt, who has designed over 50 shows including The Toxic Avenger and The Scottsboro Boys, which recently opened at The Lyceum on Broadway, and Tony Award winner Michael Rupert (Sweet Charity) in the curmudgeon role of Norbert the elf. (upper right) composer Harry Connick, Jr, (background) the ensemble in Santa's workshop, and Elliot Dash as Santa and Clint Johnson as Eubie (Photos: Sanjay Suchak) What’s The Happy Elf about? “It’s a story of an elf that works in Santa’s workshop who takes who takes his enthusiasm a little bit too far. He’s extremely happy and very energetic at Christmas time and people try to slow him down a little bit, but it’s hard because of his unbridled enthusiasm…It’s about friendship and loyalty and hard work, and about change in people.” Unlike the lush orchestration on his original song “The Happy Elf”, which you’ll hear in the background of my podcast, the musical features a cool, jazz score played by the small jazz combo. A very unusual sound for a Broadway show (it’s headed there next holiday season.)  But why wait, when you can see it now at  the beautiful Robert E. Parilla Performing Arts Center on the Montgomery College campus in Rockville. Here’s Harry Connick, Jr to tell you more. Joel Markowitz interviewing Harry Connick, Jr (Photo: Renee Rabben) The Happy Elf runs thru Nov 28, 2010 at The Parilla Performing Arts Center, 51 Mannakee Street, in Rockville, Md. Details here. Buy tickets. . Interviews, Podcasts DC Theatre Scene no no http://dctheatrescene.com/2010/08/06/the-women-of-the-national-tour-of-avenue-q/ http://dctheatrescene.com/2010/08/06/the-women-of-the-national-tour-of-avenue-q/#comments Fri, 06 Aug 2010 16:52:58 +0000 Joel Markowitz http://dctheatrescene.com/?p=18655 http://dctheatrescene.com/2010/08/06/the-women-of-the-national-tour-of-avenue-q/feed/ 0 0:18:25 An interview with members of the Avenue Q national tour: Kerri Bracken, Julianna Lee and Jacqueline Grabois It was an hour before their call for the evening performance of  Avenue Q when cast members Jacqueline Grabois (Kate Monster and Lucy the S[...] An interview with members of the Avenue Q national tour: Kerri Bracken, Julianna Lee and Jacqueline Grabois It was an hour before their call for the evening performance of  Avenue Q when cast members Jacqueline Grabois (Kate Monster and Lucy the Slut), Kerri Bracken (Mrs. T. and one of the two Bad Idea Bears), and ensemble member Julianna Lee, who performed the role of Christmas Eve when I saw the show on opening night, sat down with me in their dressing room. (l-r) Kerri Bracken, Julianna Lee and Jacqueline Grabois After a year on the road, all three reflect on their roles, auditions, “Puppet Camp”, and pay homage to their furry friends. Jacqueline finally gets revenge on her Mrs. T.-like teacher from hell, and they all talk about missing that “important call”. Julianna and Jacqueline also talk about their songs, “The More You Ruv Someone” and “There’s a Fine, Fine Line”. We had a great time, and hope you will too. Here’s a clip from the national tour. Avenue Q plays through August 15th at Lansburgh Theatre, 450 7th Street NW, in Washington, DC. For tickets call their box office (202) 547-1122, or go here: Interviews, Podcasts DC Theatre Scene no no http://dctheatrescene.com/2010/07/01/the-men-of-legends-john-epperson-and-james-lecesne/ http://dctheatrescene.com/2010/07/01/the-men-of-legends-john-epperson-and-james-lecesne/#comments Thu, 01 Jul 2010 17:35:05 +0000 Joel Markowitz http://dctheatrescene.com/?p=17254 http://dctheatrescene.com/2010/07/01/the-men-of-legends-john-epperson-and-james-lecesne/feed/ 0 0:00:01 They are making Studio Theatre audience howl with delight as they dig their claws into each other at Legends!. The actors responsible for the hilarity, John Epperson and James Lecesne, sit down with Joel Markowitz to schmooze about the show, talk ab[...] They are making Studio Theatre audience howl with delight as they dig their claws into each other at Legends!. The actors responsible for the hilarity, John Epperson and James Lecesne, sit down with Joel Markowitz to schmooze about the show, talk about playing Leatrice Monsee and Sylvia Glenn, how John rewrote the original script by James Kirkwood, how James got involved in this production, and what’s next for the show. James Lecesne and John Epperson (Photo: Scott Suchman) John on Leatrice Monsee, who he plays in the show: “Although she has a “Little Goody Two-Shoes” image, like Julie Andrews and Debbie Reynolds, she isn’t one at all.  She is old enemies with Sylvia Glenn …  Both of them are broke and Sylvia knows that if she can convince Leatrice to appear together, the public will want to see them because everyone knows how much they hate each other… I see myself as dysfunctional, so I can relate to Leatrice”. James on Sylvia Glenn: “She is based on someone like Bette Davis, who played a lot of tramps and rougher characters. She is outspoken and bawdy and Elizabeth Taylorish  like in Who’s Afraid if Virginia Woolf. They’re a nemesis of each other, The play is about them coming together – Sylvia trying to convince Leatrice to do a play on Broadway… I’m a tramp, and that’s how I relate to Sylvia Glenn!… The whole play is a “prop nightmare”. James and John love Roz White who plays Aretha. James calls her “The greatest thing ever! She is an amazing performer. She is such a wonderful actress, with incredible timing”. And John says, “ She gives an anchor to the show”. James and John talk about “The Trevor Project” which was founded by James, director/producer Peggy Rajski and producer Randy Stone, who created (James wrote the screenplay) the 1994 Academy Award-winning short film, “Trevor”, about a gay 13-year-old boy who, when rejected by friends because of his sexuality, makes an attempt to take his life. “The Trevor Helpline” is the only nationwide, around-the-clock crisis and suicide prevention helpline for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and questioning youth. You can read more about The Trevor Project here, and “Trevor” the film here. James Lecesne and John Epperson at the interview (Photo: Joel Markowitz) LEGENDS! plays through July 11th, at Studio Theatre, 1501 14th Street, NW, in Washington, DC. For tickets, call (202) 332-3300, or click here: Interviews, Podcasts DC Theatre Scene no no http://dctheatrescene.com/2010/06/09/2010-tony-predictions/ http://dctheatrescene.com/2010/06/09/2010-tony-predictions/#comments Wed, 09 Jun 2010 17:52:54 +0000 Joel Markowitz http://dctheatrescene.com/?p=16720 http://dctheatrescene.com/2010/06/09/2010-tony-predictions/feed/ 1 0:38:13 Richard Seff and Joel Markowitz on the NYC Theatre Season and the Tony Awards In what has become an annual tradition on DC Theatre Scene, DCTS columnists Richard Seff and Joel Markowitz met in Richard’s penthouse on the Upper East Side of NYC to [...] Richard Seff and Joel Markowitz on the NYC Theatre Season and the Tony Awards In what has become an annual tradition on DC Theatre Scene, DCTS columnists Richard Seff and Joel Markowitz met in Richard’s penthouse on the Upper East Side of NYC to share their thoughts with you on the current NYC theatre season. Richard Seff and Joel Markowitz after the podcast. They compare their lists of this year’s crop of shows and performers to performances from past seasons. It’s safe to say no one knows Broadway like Richard Seff who tells us that one performer this year reminded him of the show stopping moment he saw in 1943 when Sono Asato stole the show from Mary Martin in One Touch of Venus (1943). Listen to hear who that Asato-like scene stealer was. They both agreed it was a great year for dramas, but a weak one for musicals. They share their personal picks, but as for who the Tony voters will pick – they make their guesses, but one sure bet is that Tony night will hold some surprises. Our experts have spoken. Who do you think deserves to win? Leave your votes in a comment after this article. Here are the nominations so that you can follow along both for this podcast. And here is a printable ballot for Tony night, Sunday, June 13th, when Sean Hayes hosts the awards ceremony from Radio City Music Hall. The show will be broadcast by CBS starting at 8pm EST. The Tony Awards Nominations for the 2010 American Theatre Wing’s Tony Awards® Presented by The Broadway League and the American Theatre Wing BEST PLAY In the Next Room or the vibrator play Author: Sarah Ruhl Producers: Lincoln Center Theater, André Bishop, Bernard Gersten Next Fall Author: Geoffrey Nauffts Producers: Elton John and David Furnish, Barbara Manocherian, Richard Willis, Tom Smedes, Carole L. Haber/Chase Mishkin, Ostar, Anthony Barrile, Michael Palitz, Bob Boyett, James Spry/Catherine Schreiber, Probo Productions, Roy Furman, Naked Angels Red Author: John Logan Producers: Arielle Tepper Madover, Stephanie P. McClelland, Matthew Byam Shaw, Neal Street, Fox Theatricals, Ruth Hendel/Barbara Whitman, Philip Hagemann/Murray Rosenthal, The Donmar Warehouse Time Stands Still Author: Donald Margulies Producers: Manhattan Theatre Club, Lynne Meadow, Barry Grove, Nelle Nugent/Wendy Federman BEST MUSICAL American Idiot Producers: Tom Hulce & Ira Pittelman, Ruth and Steven Hendel, Vivek J. Tiwary and Gary Kaplan, Aged in Wood and Burnt Umber, Scott Delman, Latitude Link, HOP Theatricals and Jeffrey Finn, Larry Welk, Bensinger Filerman and Moellenberg Taylor, Allan S. Gordon/Elan V. McAllister, Berkeley Repertory Theatre, Awaken Entertainment, John Pinckard and John Domo Fela! Producers: Shawn “Jay-Z” Carter and Will & Jada Pinkett Smith, Ruth & Stephen Hendel, Roy Gabay, Sony Pictures Entertainment, Edward Tyler Nahem, Slava Smolokowski, Chip Meyrelles/Ken Greiner, Douglas G. Smith, Steve Semlitz/Cathy Glaser, Daryl Roth/True Love Productions, Susan Dietz/Mort Swinsky, Knitting Factory Entertainment Memphis Producers: Junkyard Dog Productions, Barbara and Buddy Freitag, Marleen and Kenny Alhadeff, Latitude Link, Jim and Susan Blair, Demos Bizar Entertainment, Land Line Productions, Apples and Oranges Productions, Dave Copley, Dancap Productions, Inc., Alex and Katya Lukianov, Tony Ponturo, 2 Guys Productions, Richard Winkler, Lauren Doll, Eric and Marsi Gardiner, Linda and Bill Potter, Broadway Across America, Jocko Productions, Patty Baker, Dan Frishwasser, Bob Bartner/Scott and Kaylin Union, Loraine Boyle/Chase Mishkin, Remmel T. Dickinson/Memphis Orpheum Group, ShadowCatcher Entertainment/Vijay and Sita Vashee Million Dollar Quartet Producers: Relevant Theatricals, John Cossette Productions, American Pop Anthology, Broadway Across America, James L. Nederlander BEST BOOK OF A MUSICAL Everyday Rapture Dick Scanlan and Sherie Rene Scott Fela! Jim Lewis & Bill T. Jones Memphis Joe DiPietro Million Dollar Quartet Colin [...] Interviews, Podcasts DC Theatre Scene no no http://dctheatrescene.com/2010/06/01/sycamore-trees-composer-ricky-ian-gordon/ http://dctheatrescene.com/2010/06/01/sycamore-trees-composer-ricky-ian-gordon/#comments Tue, 01 Jun 2010 17:17:00 +0000 Joel Markowitz http://dctheatrescene.com/?p=16455 http://dctheatrescene.com/2010/06/01/sycamore-trees-composer-ricky-ian-gordon/feed/ 3 0:25:43 Composer Ricky Ian Gordon on his roots and Sycamore Trees. It takes a lot of persistence and courage to keep plugging on for 27 years to finish a work based on your own life and family. It also takes a lot of chutzpah to show all the ups and dow[...] Composer Ricky Ian Gordon on his roots and Sycamore Trees. It takes a lot of persistence and courage to keep plugging on for 27 years to finish a work based on your own life and family. It also takes a lot of chutzpah to show all the ups and downs and to put it on a stage for the whole word to see. That is the story of Ricky Ian Gordon and his newest musical Sycamore Trees. Ricky Ian Gordon after the podcast. (Photo: Joel Markowitz) Rick Ian Gordon is one of Joel’s favorite composers, so he looked forward to sitting down with him minutes before the show’s last preview performance at Signature Theatre. Director Tina Landau has assembled some of  Broadway’s greatest singers – “a dream cast”- Marc Kudisch, playing the father Sydney, Diane Sutherland, playing the mother Edie, Judy Kuhn, Jessica Molaskey, and Farah Alvin playing the three sisters, and Tony Yazbeck, who plays Andrew (who is based on Ricky), and Matthew Risch, who plays David, Andrew’s lover (based on Ricky’s lover) and The Man. And to have Tina, a long-time collaborator direct it – well, it’s a dream come true for the energetic, likeable, prolific, and emotional Ricky Ian Gordon. Why call his new musical Sycamore Trees? “It’s about this couple that lives in the Bronx who move to the suburbs of Long Island. Sycamore trees were planted in all the suburbs of America because they grew quickly, and they provide great shade. They were the great witnesses”. Ricky talks easily about writing Sycamore Trees, the auditions, the casting and the pressure-filled process of fine-tuning the work before allowing the critics to come on press night, Sunday, May 30th. Ricky talks about his family, and especially his love for his mother Eve, once a famous Catskills singer/comedienne.  If you stay after the final notes of the orchestra are played, you can hear Ricky’s mother Eve sing a famous Yiddish song, filling  the Max Theatre with her beautiful voice. It’s been an emotional roller-coaster for composer Ricky Ian Gordon. Listen in to hear his very personal journey. Interviews, Podcasts DC Theatre Scene no no http://dctheatrescene.com/2010/05/24/title-of-show-cast-of-friends/ http://dctheatrescene.com/2010/05/24/title-of-show-cast-of-friends/#comments Mon, 24 May 2010 15:57:46 +0000 Joel Markowitz http://dctheatrescene.com/?p=16278 http://dctheatrescene.com/2010/05/24/title-of-show-cast-of-friends/feed/ 0 0:32:56 Friends Playing Friends: James Gardiner, Erin Driscoll, Sam Ludwig, Jenna Sokolowski, and Gabriel Mangiante on starring in Signature Theatre’s [title of show]. Erin Driscoll, Sam Ludwig, James Gardiner and Jenna Sokolowski (Photo: Stan Barouh) Th[...] Friends Playing Friends: James Gardiner, Erin Driscoll, Sam Ludwig, Jenna Sokolowski, and Gabriel Mangiante on starring in Signature Theatre’s [title of show]. Erin Driscoll, Sam Ludwig, James Gardiner and Jenna Sokolowski (Photo: Stan Barouh) They are friends and have worked together in other shows, and now they appear as friends in Signature Theatre’s zany [title of show] – a musical about trying to write a musical. James Gardiner, who plays Hunter, explained, “What the most important thing we talked about is how important it is that everyone is friends. That is something that cannot be contrived – you can’t make up friendships on stage”. Joel Markowitz interviewed Erin Driscoll (Heidi) Jenna Sokolowski (Susan), James Gardiner (Hunter), Sam Ludwig (Jeff), and Gabriel Mangiante, who plays Larry and accompanies them on keyboards, who talked about their roles, working together in [title of show] and other shows, working with director Matthew Gardiner, and a future wedding. Thursday, May 6th had already been a long day that started with talkbacks at the Arlington Library, several rehearsals and an  8 PM performance, but the cast – a little giddy, a little punchy – gamely sat down for these late night interviews. Like their real life characters, they do it for the love of musical theatre. Enjoy. [title of show] plays through June 27th at Signature Theatre in Arlington, VA. For more information and to purchase tickets, click here. Interviews, Podcasts DC Theatre Scene no no http://dctheatrescene.com/2010/04/10/des-keogh/ http://dctheatrescene.com/2010/04/10/des-keogh/#comments Sat, 10 Apr 2010 17:09:15 +0000 Lorraine Treanor http://dctheatrescene.com/?p=14599 http://dctheatrescene.com/2010/04/10/des-keogh/feed/ 0 0:24:54 Surely, Hugh Leonard writing his autobiographical play Da in the early 70’s could have hoped for no one better to portray his da than the well known Irish actor Des Keogh, now playing the role in Olney Theatre’s revival of its 1973 world premier[...] Surely, Hugh Leonard writing his autobiographical play Da in the early 70’s could have hoped for no one better to portray his da than the well known Irish actor Des Keogh, now playing the role in Olney Theatre’s revival of its 1973 world premiere. (l-r) James Whalen and Des Keogh in Olney Theatre's Da (Photo: Stan Barouh) Mr. Keogh, full of wit and charm with just a touch of mischief, tells us that in Ireland, he is well known for comedies, and as a “David Letterman type” television personality.  It’s when he comes to this side of the pond to work with the Irish Repertory Theatre among others, that he gets the chance at some of the meatier roles. So when the call came to play Leonard’s da, he leapt at the chance, even though it meant leaving his wife of 44 years, and his beloved collie. We were delighted to bring Mr. Keogh together with Kerry Waters Lucas, actress and co-artistic director of Keegan Theatre’s New Island Project, which produces the works of Irish playwrights, and, for the past 10 years has joined other Keegan members in touring an American play throughout Ireland. They easily fell into this late night conversation comparing notes on the actors’ process, Irish towns, and its well loved playwrights, old and new.  Give a listen below. Kerry Waters Lucas and Des Keogh after the interview Hugh Leonard’s Tony Award winning Da is autobiographical, and, as Mr. Keogh tells us, is very specific to Dalkey’s pubs and  inhabitants.   To learn more about the town, which is just south of Dublin, here’s an article written for the NY Times in 1981 by one of Ireland’s most famous Dalkeymen, Hugh Leonard himself. Related: DCTS review of Da. Da continues at Olney Theatre through April 25, 2010. For details, directions and tickets, click here. Interviews, Podcasts DC Theatre Scene no no http://dctheatrescene.com/2010/03/31/the-light-in-the-piazza-interviews/ http://dctheatrescene.com/2010/03/31/the-light-in-the-piazza-interviews/#comments Wed, 31 Mar 2010 10:53:01 +0000 Joel Markowitz http://dctheatrescene.com/?p=14362 http://dctheatrescene.com/2010/03/31/the-light-in-the-piazza-interviews/feed/ 1 0:22:26 Acclaimed actress Hollis Resnik, in town to play Margaret in The Light in the Piazza, and her young co-star Margaret Ann Florence, talk with Joel Markowitz. Acclaimed actress Hollis Resnik, in town to play Margaret in The Light in the Piazza, and her young co-star Margaret Ann Florence, talk with Joel Markowitz. Interviews, Podcasts DC Theatre Scene no no http://dctheatrescene.com/2010/03/25/new-conor-mcpherson-film-the-eclipse/ http://dctheatrescene.com/2010/03/25/new-conor-mcpherson-film-the-eclipse/#comments Thu, 25 Mar 2010 15:12:34 +0000 Joel Markowitz http://dctheatrescene.com/?p=14089 http://dctheatrescene.com/2010/03/25/new-conor-mcpherson-film-the-eclipse/feed/ 0 0:20:19 Solas Nua Artistic Director Linda Murray interviews playwright Conor McPherson and actor Ciarán Hinds on their new film "The Eclipse" from Magnolia Pictures. Solas Nua Artistic Director Linda Murray interviews playwright Conor McPherson and actor Ciarán Hinds on their new film "The Eclipse" from Magnolia Pictures. Interviews, Podcasts DC Theatre Scene no no http://dctheatrescene.com/2010/03/17/josh-kornbluth-andy-warhol/ http://dctheatrescene.com/2010/03/17/josh-kornbluth-andy-warhol/#comments Wed, 17 Mar 2010 14:11:34 +0000 Joel Markowitz http://dctheatrescene.com/?p=13770 http://dctheatrescene.com/2010/03/17/josh-kornbluth-andy-warhol/feed/ 1 http://dctheatrescene.com/2010/03/10/marc-kudisch-in-terrence-mcnallys-golden-age/ http://dctheatrescene.com/2010/03/10/marc-kudisch-in-terrence-mcnallys-golden-age/#comments Wed, 10 Mar 2010 21:45:02 +0000 Joel Markowitz http://dctheatrescene.com/?p=13618 http://dctheatrescene.com/2010/03/10/marc-kudisch-in-terrence-mcnallys-golden-age/feed/ 0 0:21:56 Broadway's Marc Kudisch talks about his latest project, Golden Age, the new play by Terrence McNally the first of the Kennedy Center's 3 play Terrence McNally Nights at the Opera series. Broadway's Marc Kudisch talks about his latest project, Golden Age, the new play by Terrence McNally the first of the Kennedy Center's 3 play Terrence McNally Nights at the Opera series. Interviews, Podcasts DC Theatre Scene no no http://dctheatrescene.com/2010/02/07/michael-west/ http://dctheatrescene.com/2010/02/07/michael-west/#comments Sun, 07 Feb 2010 17:52:36 +0000 Joel Markowitz http://dctheatrescene.com/?p=12515 http://dctheatrescene.com/2010/02/07/michael-west/feed/ 3 0:32:13 Forbidden Broadway star Michael West, now in NEWSical the Musical, schmoozes with Joel Markowitz about the shows, and brings out his favorite impressions. Forbidden Broadway star Michael West, now in NEWSical the Musical, schmoozes with Joel Markowitz about the shows, and brings out his favorite impressions. podcasts, DC, theatre, radio, plays DC Theatre Scene no no http://dctheatrescene.com/2009/12/20/the-gift-of-the-magi/ http://dctheatrescene.com/2009/12/20/the-gift-of-the-magi/#comments Mon, 21 Dec 2009 01:34:10 +0000 Lorraine Treanor http://dctheatrescene.com/?p=11657 http://dctheatrescene.com/2009/12/20/the-gift-of-the-magi/feed/ 1 0:11:25 The Audible Group creates a new audio adaptation of the O. Henry classic story of the true meaning of giving, set in 1930's northeast neighborhood of Washington, DC. The Audible Group creates a new audio adaptation of the O. Henry classic story of the true meaning of giving, set in 1930's northeast neighborhood of Washington, DC. Podcasts DC Theatre Scene no no http://dctheatrescene.com/2009/12/17/fantasticks-funny-men-laurence-odwyer-and-jesse-terrill/ http://dctheatrescene.com/2009/12/17/fantasticks-funny-men-laurence-odwyer-and-jesse-terrill/#comments Thu, 17 Dec 2009 15:25:58 +0000 Joel Markowitz http://592055217 http://dctheatrescene.com/2009/12/17/fantasticks-funny-men-laurence-odwyer-and-jesse-terrill/feed/ 2 0:23:17 They don't sing a note in Arena Stage's The Fantasticks, but funny men Laurence O'Dwyer and Jesse Terrill steal the show. They don't sing a note in Arena Stage's The Fantasticks, but funny men Laurence O'Dwyer and Jesse Terrill steal the show. Interviews, Podcasts DC Theatre Scene no no http://dctheatrescene.com/2009/12/13/harry-winter-2/ http://dctheatrescene.com/2009/12/13/harry-winter-2/#comments Sun, 13 Dec 2009 22:10:45 +0000 Joel Markowitz http://dctheatrescene.com/?p=11528 http://dctheatrescene.com/2009/12/13/harry-winter-2/feed/ 3 0:16:19 Harry Winter, one of Washington's best liked character actors, talks about playing Cap'n Andy and rehearsing the small stage version of Show Boat. Harry Winter, one of Washington's best liked character actors, talks about playing Cap'n Andy and rehearsing the small stage version of Show Boat. Interviews, Podcasts DC Theatre Scene no no http://dctheatrescene.com/2009/12/10/hugh-panaro-gets-into-fagin-makeup/ http://dctheatrescene.com/2009/12/10/hugh-panaro-gets-into-fagin-makeup/#comments Thu, 10 Dec 2009 19:53:27 +0000 Joel Markowitz http://dctheatrescene.com/?p=11485 http://dctheatrescene.com/2009/12/10/hugh-panaro-gets-into-fagin-makeup/feed/ 2 0:25:38 In his dressing room, Broadway star Hugh Panaro talks about creating the makeup for his first mature character role as Fagin in Walnut Street Theatre's Oliver. In his dressing room, Broadway star Hugh Panaro talks about creating the makeup for his first mature character role as Fagin in Walnut Street Theatre's Oliver. Interviews, Philadelphia, Podcasts DC Theatre Scene no no http://dctheatrescene.com/2009/12/03/estelle-parsons/ http://dctheatrescene.com/2009/12/03/estelle-parsons/#comments Thu, 03 Dec 2009 14:52:05 +0000 Joel Markowitz http://dctheatrescene.com/?p=11254 http://dctheatrescene.com/2009/12/03/estelle-parsons/feed/ 3 0:23:05 Famed television, film and stage actress Estelle Parsons is forthright and entertaining in this wide-ranging interview that starts with her role as Violet in August: Osage County, and covers her career, including her pioneering role in television ne[...] Famed television, film and stage actress Estelle Parsons is forthright and entertaining in this wide-ranging interview that starts with her role as Violet in August: Osage County, and covers her career, including her pioneering role in television news. Interviews, Podcasts DC Theatre Scene no no http://dctheatrescene.com/2009/12/01/sherri-l-edelen-and-matthew-scott-in-phillys-the-light-in-the-piazza/ http://dctheatrescene.com/2009/12/01/sherri-l-edelen-and-matthew-scott-in-phillys-the-light-in-the-piazza/#comments Tue, 01 Dec 2009 15:59:29 +0000 Joel Markowitz http://dctheatrescene.com/?p=11201 http://dctheatrescene.com/2009/12/01/sherri-l-edelen-and-matthew-scott-in-phillys-the-light-in-the-piazza/feed/ 3 0:21:54 Listen in as actors Sherri L. Edelen and Matthew Scott talk about playing Margaret and Fabrizio in Philadelphia Theatre Company's acclaimed new production of Light in the Piazza. Listen in as actors Sherri L. Edelen and Matthew Scott talk about playing Margaret and Fabrizio in Philadelphia Theatre Company's acclaimed new production of Light in the Piazza. Interviews, Philadelphia, Podcasts DC Theatre Scene no no http://dctheatrescene.com/2009/11/24/jim-brochu-the-stories-continue/ http://dctheatrescene.com/2009/11/24/jim-brochu-the-stories-continue/#comments Tue, 24 Nov 2009 17:49:10 +0000 Joel Markowitz http://dctheatrescene.com/?p=11114 http://dctheatrescene.com/2009/11/24/jim-brochu-the-stories-continue/feed/ 2 0:25:10 Actor Jim Brochu, appearing Off-Broadway in Zero Hour, and director Piper Laurie, share backstage stories, ranging from Barbra Streisand and Lucille Ball to the movie Carrie. Actor Jim Brochu, appearing Off-Broadway in Zero Hour, and director Piper Laurie, share backstage stories, ranging from Barbra Streisand and Lucille Ball to the movie Carrie. Interviews, Podcasts DC Theatre Scene no no http://dctheatrescene.com/2009/11/12/ragtime-interviews-director-marcia-milgrom-dodge/ http://dctheatrescene.com/2009/11/12/ragtime-interviews-director-marcia-milgrom-dodge/#comments Thu, 12 Nov 2009 16:26:39 +0000 Joel Markowitz http://dctheatrescene.com/?p=10908 http://dctheatrescene.com/2009/11/12/ragtime-interviews-director-marcia-milgrom-dodge/feed/ 3 0:12:32 Broadway director Marcia Milgrom Dodge about directing the revival of Ragtime. Broadway director Marcia Milgrom Dodge about directing the revival of Ragtime. Interviews, Podcasts DC Theatre Scene no no http://dctheatrescene.com/2009/11/10/ragtime-interviews-producer-roy-furman/ http://dctheatrescene.com/2009/11/10/ragtime-interviews-producer-roy-furman/#comments Tue, 10 Nov 2009 16:33:13 +0000 Joel Markowitz http://dctheatrescene.com/?p=10865 http://dctheatrescene.com/2009/11/10/ragtime-interviews-producer-roy-furman/feed/ 2 0:12:22 "I had no thought of bringing it to Broadway until I went to Washington to see it at the Kennedy Center." Producer Roy Furman talks about the new Ragtime. "I had no thought of bringing it to Broadway until I went to Washington to see it at the Kennedy Center." Producer Roy Furman talks about the new Ragtime. Interviews, Podcasts DC Theatre Scene no no http://dctheatrescene.com/2009/11/02/ragtime-christiane-noll-and-robert-petkoff/ http://dctheatrescene.com/2009/11/02/ragtime-christiane-noll-and-robert-petkoff/#comments Mon, 02 Nov 2009 13:49:49 +0000 Joel Markowitz http://dctheatrescene.com/?p=10664 http://dctheatrescene.com/2009/11/02/ragtime-christiane-noll-and-robert-petkoff/feed/ 0 0:09:37 Recorded at the NYC press introduction to the cast of Ragtime. She’s not only playing mother to Little Coalhouse Walker, Jr. in the about-to-open Broadway production of Ragtime, Christiane Noll is also playing mother to her young toddler. How wil[...] Recorded at the NYC press introduction to the cast of Ragtime. She’s not only playing mother to Little Coalhouse Walker, Jr. in the about-to-open Broadway production of Ragtime, Christiane Noll is also playing mother to her young toddler. How will she juggle both these motherhoods on the road? Has becoming a mother changed her performance as Mother since the Kennedy Center production? “I have an incredible support system. It takes a village, especially when I am doing all of this. I’m always running around holding on to the doll. I won’t put it down..” Listen in as Christiane describes her new challenging life on the road, and working with her new Tateh (Manoel Felciano played Tateh at the Kennedy Center)- Robert Petkoff, the man with “the sparkly eyes”. Robert Petkoff steps into the role of Tateh  after spending 20 years acting in NYC, and has been performing the last six years in musicals. “I started out doing Shakespeare and sort of fell backwards doing musicals” like the recent revival of Fiddler on the Roof at the Minskoff Theatre, where he played the role of Perchik. “Tateh is like Perchik on steroids! Perchik wants to change the world, while Tateh wants to change his life and the life of his daughter”. Listen in as Robert talks about how he relates to Tateh and his family’s story of how they immigrated to America and the challenges they faced when they came to America, the audition process, and why it’s the best time now for Ragtime to return to The Big Apple. ———– Ragtime began previews on October 23rd at the Neil Simon Theatre – 250 West 52nd Street, in New York City. It opens on November 15th. Related: Part I: Ragtime interviews with composers Lynn Ahrens and Stephen Flaherty My interview with Christiane and Bobby Steggert here Christiane Noll’s  website Robert Petkoff’s website Interviews, Podcasts DC Theatre Scene no no http://dctheatrescene.com/2009/10/20/ragtime-interviews-lynn-ahrens-and-stephen-flaherty/ http://dctheatrescene.com/2009/10/20/ragtime-interviews-lynn-ahrens-and-stephen-flaherty/#comments Tue, 20 Oct 2009 18:05:58 +0000 Joel Markowitz http://dctheatrescene.com/?p=10230 http://dctheatrescene.com/2009/10/20/ragtime-interviews-lynn-ahrens-and-stephen-flaherty/feed/ 6 0:17:38 When I received an invitation from press reps Joe Perrotta and Michael Strassheim of Boneau/Bryan-Brown, to come up for the “meet the stars, creative team and sneak peek performance of the upcoming Broadway musical Ragtime” on October 7th at The[...] When I received an invitation from press reps Joe Perrotta and Michael Strassheim of Boneau/Bryan-Brown, to come up for the “meet the stars, creative team and sneak peek performance of the upcoming Broadway musical Ragtime” on October 7th at The Hilton Rehearsal Hall on 43rd , where as Stephen Flaherty was about to remind me, “ it all began in 1998”, I never dreamed that I would be given the opportunity to sit down and schmooze with composer Stephen Flaherty, lyricist Lynn Ahrens, producer Roy Furman, director and choreographer Marcia Milgrom Dodge, and actors Christiane Noll and Robert Petkoff. Now, you get to sit there with me, as I interview them during this amazing day. Part One: composers Lynn Ahrens and Stephen Flaherty I have admired Lynn Ahrens and Stephen Flaherty’s work since I first walked into the small Booth Theatre  on December 2, 1991, the day after it opened on Broadway, and heard their gorgeous score for Once On This Island. Since then, I have become one of their biggest fans, and after seeing Ragtime in Toronto pre-Broadway, and seven times on Broadway, the National tour at the National Theatre in DC, numerous community productions, and two great productions at Toby’s Dinner Theatre in Columbia and Baltimore, I have become – as director Marcia Milgrom Dodge called me – a “Raggie”,  just like her. I am in love with Ragtime, its heart-warming stories surrounded by Stephen and Lynn’s glorious score. For me, and for many other theatregoers, Ragtime has the best score written for the musical stage in the past two decades. And, now, here I was, face-to-face with Stephen and Lynn, getting a chance to talk about their show that had a bumpy ride during its first 1998 Broadway run – the show that closed too soon –  and their new hopes that this more intimate production, transferring after a critically acclaimed run this year at the Kennedy Center, will touch the hearts of today’s new generation of theatre goers, and those of the many fans of the original production. I asked Stephen and Lynn to talk about the April, 2009 Kennedy Center production, how it differed in tone and direction from the 1998 Broadway production, and how they feel about the show eleven years after it opened on Broadway. Listen in as they talk about the changes they are making as they prepare for Ragtime‘s November 15th opening night at the Neil Simon Theatre. To learn more about Lynn and Stephen’s careers and shows, go to Lynn and Stephen’s website. Ragtime begins previews on October 23rd at the Neil Simon Theatre, 250 West 52nd Street, in New York City. To purchase tickets, click here. Coming soon – the series continues: Part II:  Christiane Noll (Mother) and Robert Petkoff (Tateh) Part III:  Producer Roy Furman and director Marcia Milgrom Dodge Interviews, Podcasts DC Theatre Scene no no http://dctheatrescene.com/2009/09/20/the-audience-choice-awards/ http://dctheatrescene.com/2009/09/20/the-audience-choice-awards/#comments Sun, 20 Sep 2009 15:00:58 +0000 Lorraine Treanor http://dctheatrescene.com/?p=8945 http://dctheatrescene.com/2009/09/20/the-audience-choice-awards/feed/ 57 0:35:34 Audience Choice Awards Winners 2009 Announced Favorite Play . Dante (Synetic Theater) Favorite Actor in a Play . Alex Mills as Puck . A Midsummer Night’s Dream (Synetic Theater) Favorite Actress in a Play . Valerie Harper as Tallulah Bankhead[...] Audience Choice Awards Winners 2009 Announced Favorite Play . Dante (Synetic Theater) Favorite Actor in a Play . Alex Mills as Puck . A Midsummer Night’s Dream (Synetic Theater) Favorite Actress in a Play . Valerie Harper as Tallulah Bankhead . Looped (Arena Stage) Favorite Musical . Next to Normal (Arena Stage) Favorite Actress in a Musical . Alice Ripley as Diana . Next to Normal (Arena Stage) Favorite Actor in a Musical . Antonio Soto as Juan Peron . Mummy in the Closet (GALA) Favorite Ensemble . Dante (Synetic Theater) Favorite Family Show . Zomo the Rabbit (Imagination Stage) Favorite Touring Show . Spring Awakening (Kennedy Center) Now we invite you to step into the world of radio drama, to hear the winners accept their awards. ————– The night of the big Audience Choice Awards Show is finally here. A huge crowd of DC Theatre fans have gathered, hoping to catch a glimpse of their favorite nominees. Television cameras are trained on reporter Rona Slivers at the head of the red carpet, ready to give her usual biting fashion commentary…But what’s this? No taxis? No limos? No stars? Where are all the nominees? No Hedman, no Hicken, no Hemmingsen? And what’s that whispering??? Nancy Robinette has skipped town!?!? Something doesn’t smell right here–and the situation is also strange…. Will the curtain on the Audience Choice Awards Show ever go up? Is this the end of theatre in Washington, DC? Get comfy and listen in as Hashell Dammitt solves THE CASE OF THE EMPTY RED CARPET Created by The Audible Group Here’s your program. BONUS: Be an Audiodetective yourself! There is ONE show title of ALL the 2009 Audience Choice Awards shows which did not make it (referenced or named outright) into The Case Of The Red Carpet. First person to name it correctly in the comments section will win a prize from the Audible Group. Tune in and Good Luck! ______________________________________________________________________ _____________ AUDIENCE CHOICE AWARDS -  2008/09 Season This year, DCTS writers nominated 128 performers and productions and Washington audiences cast over 12,000 votes to choose this year’s Audience Choice Awards winners.  Thanks to everyone for a great season. The nominees are: FAVORITE PLAY A Delicate Balance (Arena Stage) Antebellum (Woolly Mammoth Theatre Company) Blackbird (Studio Theatre) Blue Door (African Continuum Theatre Company) Dante (Synetic Theater) dark play, of Stories for Boys (Forum Theatre) Elizabeth Rex (Keegan Theatre) Glengarry Glen Ross (Keegan Theatre) Honey Brown Eyes (Theater J) Krapp’s Last Tape (Keegan Theatre) King Lear (Shakespeare Theatre) Maria/Stuart (Woolly Mammoth Theatre Company) One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest (Round House Theatre) Pig Farm (1st Stage) Radio Golf (Studio Theatre) Rock ‘n’ Roll (Studio Theatre) Seascape (American Century Theater) The Aging of the Plum (GALA) The Heavens Are Hung in Black (Ford’s Theatre) The Legacy of Light (Arena Stage) The Lieutenant of Inishmore (Signature Theatre) The Seafarer (Studio Theatre) FAVORITE ACTOR IN A PLAY Terry Beaver as Tobias . A Delicate Balance (Arena Stage) Lucas Beck as Gidger . The Violet Hour (1st Stage) Ben Cunis . Living Dead in Denmark (Rorschach Theatre) Mike Daisey . How Theater Failed America (Woolly Mammoth Theatre Company) John Dow as Phillipe . Heroes (MetroStage) Brian Hemmingsen as Krapp . Krapp’s Last Tape (Keegan Theatre) Carter Jahncke as Krapp . Krapp’s Last Tape (Spooky Action Theatre) Derrick Lemont in various roles . Blue Door (African Continuum Theatre Company) Eric Lucas as Ned . Elizabeth Rex (Keegan Theatre) Alex Mills as Puck . A Midsummer Night’s Dream (Synetic Theater) Paul Morella as Lior . The Accident (Theater J) Paul Morella as Clarence Darrow . A Passion for Justice (American Century Theater) Bruce Rauscher in multiple roles . Love, Peace and Robbery . (K[...] News, Podcasts DC Theatre Scene no no http://dctheatrescene.com/2009/09/17/jim-brochu-and-piper-laurie-on-zero-mostel/ http://dctheatrescene.com/2009/09/17/jim-brochu-and-piper-laurie-on-zero-mostel/#comments Thu, 17 Sep 2009 16:21:44 +0000 Joel Markowitz http://dctheatrescene.com/?p=9545 http://dctheatrescene.com/2009/09/17/jim-brochu-and-piper-laurie-on-zero-mostel/feed/ 0 0:26:34 Jim Brochu has won raves from all our local critics and audiences for his powerful, hysterical, and astounding performance as Broadway veteran and painter Zero Mostel in Zero Hour, now at Theater J. Joel Markowitz had his own Zero Hour when he sat d[...] Jim Brochu has won raves from all our local critics and audiences for his powerful, hysterical, and astounding performance as Broadway veteran and painter Zero Mostel in Zero Hour, now at Theater J. Joel Markowitz had his own Zero Hour when he sat down with actor Jim Brochu and director Piper Laurie at Theater J. They schmoozed about creating and fine-tuning the Theater J production, the Off-Broadway run which opens November 14th at the Theatre of St. Clement’s Church, their careers in film and theatre, and the DC audiences who are applauding Jim’s performance. Piper was smitten the first time she saw Zero Mostel, and, for Jim, who, at 14, literally ran into the man backstage at A Funny Thing Happened On the Way to the Forum, it marked the beginning of a long friendship. Who better, then, to create Zero Hour? “He was such a force of nature, and such a good actor, and so committed to what he was doing.  He could make you laugh one minute, and cry the next minute.” Listen in while Jim and Piper talk about all things Zero in Part One of this revealing chat with Jim Brochu and Piper Laurie. Part Two, coming soon, will share more stories from the careers of these theatre treasures. ————– Have you ever wished you could see one of Joel’s podcasts? Steve Schalchlin, Jim’s wonderful partner was there videotaping,  and cut together this video of one of the many funny moments in the show.  As many of you may know, Steve is Jim’s life partner and co-wrote and performed The Big Voice: God or Merman? with him in LA and New York.  This is truly a man that it can be said ‘To know him is to love him.’ His website Living in the Bonus Round, is one of my  favorite sites. Related: Watch this moment from Zero Hour as Zero talks about Jerome Robbins Zero Hour Reviews DCTS review Lisa Traiger . Washington Jewish Week Trey Graham . City Paper Tom Avila . MetroWeekly Brad Hathaway . Potomac Stages Peter Marks . The Post Jayne Blanchard . The Times Interviews, Podcasts DC Theatre Scene no no http://dctheatrescene.com/2009/08/19/corrieanne-stein-back-from-broadway/ http://dctheatrescene.com/2009/08/19/corrieanne-stein-back-from-broadway/#comments Wed, 19 Aug 2009 15:40:22 +0000 Joel Markowitz http://dctheatrescene.com/?p=8860 http://dctheatrescene.com/2009/08/19/corrieanne-stein-back-from-broadway/feed/ 14 0:17:59 From Musical Theater Center to Billy Elliot to Annie She’s 13,  attends Robert Frost Middle School, just starred in MTC’s Annie and, in the past year, performed in over 300 performances on Broadway as a ballet girl in the Tony Award Winni[...] From Musical Theater Center to Billy Elliot to Annie She’s 13,  attends Robert Frost Middle School, just starred in MTC’s Annie and, in the past year, performed in over 300 performances on Broadway as a ballet girl in the Tony Award Winning Best Musical Billy Elliot.  Corrieanne talks about the long audition and callback process, “I got the first call 2 years ago, and then I auditioned for one whole year, coming and going from Maryland to NYC. I had 7 callbacks. When I started there were over 2,000 kids – the lines were out the doors. It got smaller as they did all the callbacks”. The life of a young actress away from home was not always easy, and it wasn’t so glamorous all the time. The move was difficult, “Everything being in such a tight space – our apartment was so small, and it was hard getting used to the air and lack of trees and grass”. What was a typical day like when she had a show? “I’d get up at 11:00 AM, and do school homework and then do something fun like sightseeing. And then I’d go to the show at 5:00 PM usually, and the show would finish at around 11:00 PM. We always warmed up in the upper lobby”. Corrieanne tells about Tony night, when Billy Elliot swept the Tonys and won 10 awards, ”We didn’t get to attend the Tony Awards. A few of the ballet girls did. They set up big TVs on the stage of the Imperial Theatre for us.” What advice would Corrieanne give other young actors, who are considering a career in the theatre? “Always keep practicing, and never give up! … The excitement of going on stage and giving your all, making other people happy, who have paid good money to see it… It’s just thrilling!” Billy Elliot is playing at The Imperial Theatre – 249 West 45th Street, in New York City.  Interviews, Podcasts DC Theatre Scene no no http://dctheatrescene.com/2009/06/29/the-producers-ben-dibble/ http://dctheatrescene.com/2009/06/29/the-producers-ben-dibble/#comments Mon, 29 Jun 2009 17:33:53 +0000 Joel Markowitz http://dctheatrescene.com/?p=7151 http://dctheatrescene.com/2009/06/29/the-producers-ben-dibble/feed/ 1 0:25:52 June 19, 2009 – With less than an hour before curtain for Mel Brooks’ musical The Producers, actor Ben Dibble sat down with Joel Markowitz backstage at Walnut Street Theatre. Ben is wowing Philadelphia audiences with his gorgeous voice a[...] June 19, 2009 – With less than an hour before curtain for Mel Brooks’ musical The Producers, actor Ben Dibble sat down with Joel Markowitz backstage at Walnut Street Theatre. Ben is wowing Philadelphia audiences with his gorgeous voice and comedic talents playing the nebishy, blue blanket snuggling accountant and “wannabe producer” Leo Bloom. “It’s a dream come true. I saw the original Broadway cast, and the first time I saw the show, I knew it was a role I had to do.” Ben has been one of Philadelphia’s busiest musical performers for the past 9 years. Last year at Walnut Street Theatre, Ben was seen in the Barrymore Award winning Best Musical Les Miserables, and this year as Corny Collins in Hairspray. He has done many Sondheim musicals, and enjoys doing children’s theatre where he has played a toad, a dinosaur, and a giant, much to his children’s delight. “The sad truth about children’s theatre is that a lot of times it is underfunded, and there’s not a lot of effort put into it, because people think, “Oh, it’s just for kids, it doesn’t matter.” I believe the opposite. While you are trying to build the audience for tomorrow, you need not to be skimping on production values, or skimping on the talent of the acting, or anything of that nature. I felt that way before I had kids, but now that I have kids, I’m even more passionate.” Ben’s wife Amy has been the Assistant Artistic Director of The Arden Theater Company for the last 10 years; the day of our interview she resigned from that prestigious company in order to spend time with their three children, which allows for things like their first family vacation – ever – at the close of The Producers. Ben tells us the unique bits choreographer/director Marc Robin has introduced to the show, “It’s really very much his show”, and how Marc helped them find the heart of the musical in, of all places, The Wizard of Oz. He tells us about the rest of the outstanding cast, such as Ben Lipitz (Max Bialystock), his good friend Jeffrey Coon (Franz Liebkind),  Amy Bodnar (Ula),  the outrageous Rob McClure (Carmen Ghia), who DC audiences saw in the National Tour of Avenue Q and Jeremy Webb (Roger DeBris), who we saw in The Visit at Signature Theatre. And, of course, we had to talk about the staging of  his big number “I Want To Be A Producer” – wait til you hear the fabulous audio clips we’ve got from that one! We hope you have a chance to get to Philadelphia for The Producers. Ben returns to Walnut Street Theatre for David Yazbek’s musical Dirty Rottten Scoundrels – he’s got the Norbert Leo Butz role – and Joel will be there to cheer him on! The Producers continues at the Walnut Street Theatre, 825 Walnut St, in Philadelphia thru July 12th.  Interviews, Podcasts DC Theatre Scene no no http://dctheatrescene.com/2009/06/23/forbidden-broadways-jennie-eisenhower/ http://dctheatrescene.com/2009/06/23/forbidden-broadways-jennie-eisenhower/#comments Tue, 23 Jun 2009 20:15:56 +0000 Joel Markowitz http://dctheatrescene.com/?p=7043 http://dctheatrescene.com/2009/06/23/forbidden-broadways-jennie-eisenhower/feed/ 1 0:22:47 June 19 — My Philadelphia trip began with this hysterical interview with the bubbly and outrageous Jennie Eisenhower, just before the evening curtain for Forbidden Broadway’s Greatest Hits. Jennie shared her impersonations of  Ethel, L[...] June 19 — My Philadelphia trip began with this hysterical interview with the bubbly and outrageous Jennie Eisenhower, just before the evening curtain for Forbidden Broadway’s Greatest Hits. Jennie shared her impersonations of  Ethel, Liza, Bernadette, Idina, Renee, Carol, a miserable Fantine, John (that’s Travolta of Hairspray fame) in this funny interview which left me dying to see the show. Jennie was drawn to impersonations, even as a kid, although she didn’t mention doing her famous grandfather Richard Nixon and great-grandfather, Dwight D. Eisenhower. “I used to dance up down our grocery aisle hoping to be discovered like Shirley Temple.”  So how did she get such dead-on impersonations for the show? “God bless YouTube. and all it has to offer. ” It’s been a big year for this busy Philly actress: she played Atta at Walnut Street Theatre in Criminal Hearts, the pothead Mae in 11th Hour Theatre Company’s production of Reefer Madness, played Hedda Gabbler at the Mauckingbird Theatre Company, and directed Our Town at her alma mater Contestoga High School, where she is an adjunct director.  “I get to direct their musical and their play, and run their dance program. It gives me (a job)every year that I know will go on, no matter what happens with the theatre.” In the DC area, Jennie appeared as Joan of Arc in Olney Theatre Center’s production of Saint Joan in 2005. “It was a huge challenge and to be the only woman in the cast of all these men.” (Jim Gagne, Peter Kybart, Robert Leembruggen, Josh Lefkowitz, Tim Lewis, Alex Major, Eric M. Messner, Richard Pilcher, Lawrence Redmond, Stephen F. Schmidt, and Jeffries Thais). “..my roots are mostly musical theatre, and I was branching out… I was just the right energy for that role”. I absolutely loved Jennie and the cast of  Forbidden Broadway’s Greatest Hits, which plays through June 28th at Philadelphia’s Walnut Street Theatre, 825 Walnut St, Philadelphia, PA. Interviews, Podcasts DC Theatre Scene no no http://dctheatrescene.com/2009/06/04/new-york-season-highs-and-lows-and-tony-hopes/ http://dctheatrescene.com/2009/06/04/new-york-season-highs-and-lows-and-tony-hopes/#comments Thu, 04 Jun 2009 11:32:36 +0000 Joel Markowitz http://dctheatrescene.com/?p=6710 http://dctheatrescene.com/2009/06/04/new-york-season-highs-and-lows-and-tony-hopes/feed/ 0 0:37:47 DC Theatre Scene columnists Richard Seff and Joel Markowitz  discuss the New York Theatre season and their Tony Awards hopes, performances that were left off out of the Tony nominations, and their predictions for the major categories. “The th[...] DC Theatre Scene columnists Richard Seff and Joel Markowitz  discuss the New York Theatre season and their Tony Awards hopes, performances that were left off out of the Tony nominations, and their predictions for the major categories. “The theatre season was long”, says Richard. “It was very rich and varied, particularly with plays. That was the shock of this theatre season, that there were so many new plays and revivals of plays, many more than there were musicals, and that was unusual”. Joel added he didn’t think much of the musicals this year. “Less than staggering,” Richard agreed. But, Richard loved Billy Elliot and points out that it deserves all the raves it is receiving. “It has a story well told, beautifully acted, and Elton John has written a score that is Broadway worthy, and the direction by Stephen Daldry is beautiful work”. Joel loves Next To Normal. Richard saw it early on at Second Stage and was “attracted to it”. “That score was intelligent, and has variety in it, and was very moving, and the performances were extraordinary, especially Al;ice Ripley’s.”  Richard talks about the Roundabout Theatre revival of Pal Joey, “This one had a slightly different edge to it. And Stockard Channing, who  is not a great singer, but like so many great actresses, she can put over a lyric  so you really understand all of its (“Bewitches, Bothered and Bewildered” complexities. “. Disappointments? For Joel it was the revival of West Side Story, although he did love Karen Olivo’s performance as Anita. For Richard, it was Richard Greenberg’s  American Plan. “I didn’t believe one word of it.” and Eugene O’Neill’s Desire Under the Elms. Richard found a gem Off-Broadway called The Widowing of Mrs. Holroyd at The Mint Theatre. Joel raves about Sherie Rene Scott’s Everyday Rapture, and young Eamon Foley who steals the show as a youtube Sherie Renee Scott impersonator. Another pleasure of the season is seeing character actors who have been performing a long time receive recognition with the awarding of the Richard Seff Award, selected by a panel of critics and other industry professionals and presented by Actors Equity.  Richard announces this year’s winners. This year, Washington theatre will be well represented at the Tony Awards.  Artistic Director Eric Schaeffer will accept the 2009 Regional Theatre Tony Award on behalf of Signature Theatre, and two productions seen at Arena Stage -  33 Variations and Next to Normal – have numerous nominations. The three hour telecast of The Tony Awards from Radio City Music Hall will be carried live on  Sunday, June 6th on CBS, beginning at 8 pm EST. Podcasts DC Theatre Scene no no http://dctheatrescene.com/2009/06/03/valerie-harper-on-looped/ http://dctheatrescene.com/2009/06/03/valerie-harper-on-looped/#comments Wed, 03 Jun 2009 14:47:52 +0000 Joel Markowitz http://dctheatrescene.com/?p=6694 http://dctheatrescene.com/2009/06/03/valerie-harper-on-looped/feed/ 7 0:27:21 She may be best known for playing her Emmy Award winning role of Rhoda Morgenstern on “The Mary Tyler Moore Show”,  but the stage is Valerie Harper’s first love and she has returned to it playing the witty and wicked Tallulah Bank[...] She may be best known for playing her Emmy Award winning role of Rhoda Morgenstern on “The Mary Tyler Moore Show”,  but the stage is Valerie Harper’s first love and she has returned to it playing the witty and wicked Tallulah Bankhead in Arena Stage’s Broadway-bound production of Looped. Valerie chatted with Joel Markowitz in her Lincoln Theatre dressing room a few days before Looped‘s official opening. The play, she explains, written by  Matthew Lombardo,  is a comedy inspired by an actual overdubbing (looping) session in which Tallulah had to replace a single line of dialogue in what would be the star’s final film “Die, Die My Darling”. Few people know that Valerie Harper was a Broadway Baby. At age 18, she debuted in the chorus of the musical L’il Abner followed by Take Me Along with Jackie Gleason  and Wildcat with Lucille Ball, “I worked with two of the comedic giants of the 20th century. ” She also worked with Andy Griffith in Destry Rides Again, and Subways Are for Sleeping with Phyllis Newman. “I was doing these shows to pay for acting lessons. I had intended to be a ballet dancer, and I got shifted over to theatre at that time. I always tell people, “Before you is a failed ballerina!” Valerie came back to Broadway replacing Linda Lavin in The Tale of the Allergist’s Wife and took it on tour, and then took Golda’s Balcony on the road and made the film adaptation. Funny and warm, Valerie Harper talks about Tallulah Bankhead, the actress and film star, “People who don’t know her will get a kick out of this old broad saying terrible things”, and the script changes playwright  Lombardo has been making on the road, including bringing in Broadway vet Jay Goede to play film editor Danny Miller. Broadway producers are looking at a possible Fall opening for Looped, but meanwhile Valerie Harper is happy to be in Washington. “Arena Stage is like a zenith. There are certain theatres you want to have played. And Arena Stage is one of them.” Stage photo shown on main page by Craig Schwartz Looped plays at the Lincoln Theatre through June 28th.  More details here. Interviews, Podcasts DC Theatre Scene no no http://dctheatrescene.com/2009/05/31/tony-nominee-9-to-5s-marc-kudisch/ http://dctheatrescene.com/2009/05/31/tony-nominee-9-to-5s-marc-kudisch/#comments Mon, 01 Jun 2009 02:54:50 +0000 Joel Markowitz http://dctheatrescene.com/?p=6647 http://dctheatrescene.com/2009/05/31/tony-nominee-9-to-5s-marc-kudisch/feed/ 3 0:24:50 He’s the guy audiences love to hate, and this year, he’s earned a Tony Award nomination as the lying, sexist, bigot Franklin Hart, Jr. in 9 to 5: The Musical. Marc Kudisch is any producer’s  go-to guy for seductive bad guys; he[...] He’s the guy audiences love to hate, and this year, he’s earned a Tony Award nomination as the lying, sexist, bigot Franklin Hart, Jr. in 9 to 5: The Musical. Marc Kudisch is any producer’s  go-to guy for seductive bad guys; he’s played the snake in Roundabout’s revival of The Apple  Tree, and the devil who turns three lonely women into  a trio of beautiful high flying witches in Signature Theatre’s Witches of Eastwick.  This time, he’s getting his comeuppance as the predatory boss in the Dolly Parton musicalized version  of the popular 1980 movie. Joel Markowitz sat down with Marc Kudisch in his dressing room at the Marquis Theatre after  the May 24th matinee performance, to talk about why he loves playing Franklin Hart, Jr. “One of the worst bosses on the face of the planet”, the journey of the show from LA to Broadway, and working with Dolly Parton and how he handles the physical demands of getting hog-tied 8 times a week. Marc takes us through the evolution of the play from its first reads with Alice Ripley and Tracey Ullman on board, through the show’s first production in LA.  ”At first we were just putting the film on stage. There we discovered how to go beyond the film.”  Marc  talks about his good friend composer Michael John LaChiusa, whose two musicals Giant and See What I Wanna See are playing at Signature Theatre now. Marc starred in See What I Wanna See in NYC and was involved in the first reading with Michael John and read the part that John Dossett plays in the SIgnature production. Which leads him to think about the significance of Signature Theatre winning the Tony Award for Best Regional Theatre this year on Signature’s artistic director, Eric Schaeffer “He’s brilliant!” and DC as a theatre town. “Signature may be the youngest theatre company to win this award. That’s one hell of an accomplishment. DC is a great theatre scene. DC audiences are smart, and DC has the creative environment to nurture the works that NYC audiences will eventually see”, he says. Marc is hopeful his next Broadway show will be a new adaptation of the Meredith Willson musical The Unsinkable Molly Brown. Now in development, he plays Johnny “Leadville” Brown to Kerry O’Malley’s Molly. “I’ll give him a little edge.” he promises. Interviews, Podcasts DC Theatre Scene no no http://dctheatrescene.com/2009/05/06/annie-halls-josh-lefkowitz-and-shirley-serotsky/ http://dctheatrescene.com/2009/05/06/annie-halls-josh-lefkowitz-and-shirley-serotsky/#comments Wed, 06 May 2009 15:07:08 +0000 Joel Markowitz http://dctheatrescene.com/?p=6199 http://dctheatrescene.com/2009/05/06/annie-halls-josh-lefkowitz-and-shirley-serotsky/feed/ 2 0:34:09 Joel Markowitz interviews actor Josh Lefkowitz and director Shirley Serotsky about their collaboration on The Rise and Fall of Annie Hall, now playing at Theater J. Almost a comedy routine in itself, this 30 minute interview shows what happens when[...] Joel Markowitz interviews actor Josh Lefkowitz and director Shirley Serotsky about their collaboration on The Rise and Fall of Annie Hall, now playing at Theater J. Almost a comedy routine in itself, this 30 minute interview shows what happens when you drop a talented monologist who is used to his ‘solo space’ into a show with other actors, give him a director who is also a close friend, then hand them the mic to talk about it. After reading the script, Josh felt he had to play the role of Henry. To win the lead in this world premiere, he first  set out to convince playwright Sam Forman. After seeing highlights from his two solo shows in NYC, Forman said “Dude! You’re perfect!” Everyone watched Woody Allen films for bits for the show, while scenes with Henry’s stoner writing partner (Matt Anderson)  required more local research, they told Joel. Shirley, who loves comedy but usually signs on for darker plays, enjoys that fact that The Rise and Fall of Annie Hall is a straight up comedy where the audience can relax and have a good time and the laugh lines “start coming at you right from the first scene.”  Or as Josh puts it “They won’t have to call their senator and ask for money for starving children … or anything. I hope they laugh and tell their friends about it.” As for working together and being friends, Josh compares the experience to August: Osage County. If that makes you go “Huh?’, listen in. Interview photo by Joel Markowitz Feature photo by Stan Barouh Related: DCTS Review of The Rise and Fall of Annie Hall Interviews, Podcasts DC Theatre Scene no no http://dctheatrescene.com/2009/04/17/walmartopia-3/ http://dctheatrescene.com/2009/04/17/walmartopia-3/#comments Fri, 17 Apr 2009 16:44:47 +0000 Joel Markowitz http://dctheatrescene.com/?p=5767 http://dctheatrescene.com/2009/04/17/walmartopia-3/feed/ 0 0:17:54 As tech rehearsals began, Joel Markowitz sat down with husband and wife team, Director Melissa Baughman and actor and Landless Theatre Company’s Producing Artistic Director Andrew Baughman to talk about their outrageous production of the Off-[...] As tech rehearsals began, Joel Markowitz sat down with husband and wife team, Director Melissa Baughman and actor and Landless Theatre Company’s Producing Artistic Director Andrew Baughman to talk about their outrageous production of the Off-Broadway musical hit Walmartopia. Why did they choose this crazy show? Are they Walmart shoppers? How do you move a cast of 11 around the tiny DC Arts Center’s performing space, and squeeze in a 4-piece band? And, how will the cast perform choreographer Karissa Swanigan’s energetic and high-kicking choreography without hurting each other? Local actresses Robin Rouse, who plays Vicki, and Janine Gulisano-Sunday, who plays Smiley Face, Jamie and Counselor James, talk about their first-time experiences being with the Landless crew, their roles, their local theatre experiences,  and name their favorite song from the show. Related: DCTS review of Walmartopia Interviews, Podcasts DC Theatre Scene no no http://dctheatrescene.com/2009/03/31/maureen-mcgovern/ http://dctheatrescene.com/2009/03/31/maureen-mcgovern/#comments Tue, 31 Mar 2009 20:32:12 +0000 Joel Markowitz http://dctheatrescene.com/?p=5324 http://dctheatrescene.com/2009/03/31/maureen-mcgovern/feed/ 3 0:25:10 She is in her 37th year onstage as a folk singer, a cabaret star and musical theatre actress, and now Maureen McGovern is bringing her solo show A Long And Winding Road to Arena Stage in Crystal City, after workshops in Florida and Boston.  Mauree[...] She is in her 37th year onstage as a folk singer, a cabaret star and musical theatre actress, and now Maureen McGovern is bringing her solo show A Long And Winding Road to Arena Stage in Crystal City, after workshops in Florida and Boston.  Maureen sat down with Joel Markowitz to talk about the songs she chose for the show.  “It’s reminiscences from my life, but in tandem, it’s universal reminisces from all the Baby Boomers out there -  those of us born between 1946 and 1964 – and everyone else can take the ride with us. It’s a very powerful, funny, moving and ultimately life affirming piece..This is a coming home for me.. a full circle for me to go back and relive all those great songs that influenced me.” As we listen to her sing, she tells us how songs like “The Times They Are A-Changin”,  once a call to action for the 60′s generation, and “Fire and Rain”, which many related to the Viet Nam War, are still fresh and relevant today. And we couldn’t leave without talking about her gorgeous romantic ballad “Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow.” and many more from her personal songbook that will fill out the Long and Winding Road program. She touches on her stage career – Little Women, Pirates of Penzance, Three Penny Opera – then a story probably no one has ever heard about playing the crazy nun in the movie Airplane. A Long and Winding Road plays at Arena Stage in Crystal City thru April 12th. Click here for details, directions and tickets. Interviews, Podcasts DC Theatre Scene no no http://dctheatrescene.com/2009/03/22/from-crowns-e-faye-butler-and-zurin-villanueva/ http://dctheatrescene.com/2009/03/22/from-crowns-e-faye-butler-and-zurin-villanueva/#comments Sun, 22 Mar 2009 16:52:50 +0000 Joel Markowitz http://dctheatrescene.com/?p=5080 http://dctheatrescene.com/2009/03/22/from-crowns-e-faye-butler-and-zurin-villanueva/feed/ 1 0:21:53 They’ve Got Hatitude! They’ve come from different times and places – E. Faye Butler, the Chicago born musicals star whose favorite roles include Caroline, or Change, The Gospel According to Fishman, Saving Amy, and Polk County, and[...] They’ve Got Hatitude! They’ve come from different times and places – E. Faye Butler, the Chicago born musicals star whose favorite roles include Caroline, or Change, The Gospel According to Fishman, Saving Amy, and Polk County, and Zurin Villanueva, Brooklynite, Howard University student, and winner of Arena Stage’s Finding Yolanda talent search.  In Crowns, E. Faye’s character Mother Shaw and Zurin’s Yolanda develop a deep bond which has spilled over into their personal lives, as you will hear here. Joel met them at Arena  costume shop and while those famous church ladies’ hats were being created in the background, they talked about their characters, the story and songs from the shows (you’ll hear some clips) , and, of course, about hats and having ‘hatitude!’. ‘Is this the same production of Crowns that we have seen before at Arena Stage?”, Joel asked. E. Faye says that it is not. ”They built this show from the ground up… It’s special because it’s new. Molly (Smith) took a piece that has been here before, added an elegance and has taken it a notch up, and has put an elegance and polished it up… It feels good. It feels new. It feels fresh”. All photos by Scott Suchman Related:  DCTS coverage of Arena’s casting call: Finding Yolanda Interviews, Podcasts DC Theatre Scene no no http://dctheatrescene.com/2009/02/17/dantes-ben-cunis-and-paata-tsikurishvili/ http://dctheatrescene.com/2009/02/17/dantes-ben-cunis-and-paata-tsikurishvili/#comments Tue, 17 Feb 2009 19:24:45 +0000 Joel Markowitz http://dctheatrescene.com/?p=4080 http://dctheatrescene.com/2009/02/17/dantes-ben-cunis-and-paata-tsikurishvili/feed/ 0 http://dctheatrescene.com/2009/02/12/carole-shelley/ http://dctheatrescene.com/2009/02/12/carole-shelley/#comments Thu, 12 Feb 2009 18:35:02 +0000 Richard Seff http://dctheatrescene.com/?p=3983 http://dctheatrescene.com/2009/02/12/carole-shelley/feed/ 0 0:21:06 An intimate conversation with Richard Seff Brought to America by Neil Simon as his original Gwendolyn Pigeon in The Odd Couple in 1965, the London actress fell in love with American theatre, and Broadway audiences have happily returned the favor ev[...] An intimate conversation with Richard Seff Brought to America by Neil Simon as his original Gwendolyn Pigeon in The Odd Couple in 1965, the London actress fell in love with American theatre, and Broadway audiences have happily returned the favor ever since.  Her first musical,  Noel Coward’s Sweet Potato, was far from her last. Most recently she has been featured in Cabaret, Wicked, and now Billy Elliot. Ms.  Shelley was starring in Absurd Person Singular on Broadway 35 years ago when she was introduced to Richard Seff by her director Eric Thompson. A year later, Thompson cast her in The Norman Conquests in which Richard was a standby to Barry Nelson. Their paths have crossed several times since, and recently they did so again, in Carole’s dressing room at the Imperial Theatre on Broadway where she is ensconced for the indefinite future as “Grandma” in the smash musical hit Billy Elliot. Their podcast is a laff-in as they chat about Carole’s long and varied career as a very special actor-singer whose legs still look just fine in tights. “They’re the last to go”, says she, with a hearty laugh. This podcast was recorded by Joel Markowitz Related: Richard Seff’s review of the Broadway version of Billy Elliot Richard Seff is author of Supporting Player: My Life Upon the Wicked Stage celebrating his lifetime on stage and behind the scenes, available through online booksellers, including Amazon.com. DCTS Podcasts featuring Richard Seff: Interview with Brian d’Arcy James Interview with Chita Rivera Interviews with and about John Kander, With Complete Kander Richard Seff: A Lifetime on Broadway Click here Inside Broadway: A Return Visit with Richard Seff Listen here Interviews, Podcasts DC Theatre Scene no no http://dctheatrescene.com/2009/02/03/cool-papas-maurice-hines-and-tom-jones/ http://dctheatrescene.com/2009/02/03/cool-papas-maurice-hines-and-tom-jones/#comments Tue, 03 Feb 2009 17:12:19 +0000 Joel Markowitz http://dctheatrescene.com/?p=3836 http://dctheatrescene.com/2009/02/03/cool-papas-maurice-hines-and-tom-jones/feed/ 4 0:18:29 Cool Papa’s Party A conversation with choreographer Maurice Hines and writer/director Thomas W. Jones II by Joel Markowitz It was late, the end of a long evening rehearsal, and the cast of Cool Papa’s Party had one more song in them [...] Cool Papa’s Party A conversation with choreographer Maurice Hines and writer/director Thomas W. Jones II by Joel Markowitz It was late, the end of a long evening rehearsal, and the cast of Cool Papa’s Party had one more song in them – “Sho’ Can Dance” which they recorded for us before quitting the stage, leaving just me, 12-time Helen Hayes Award-Winning writer and director Thomas W. Jones II, and the legendary dancer, director and choreographer Maurice Hines. Like verbal tappers, Maurice and Tom crack each other up with stories  about the history evoked by the show and putting this production together,  but what underscores their talk is the respect these artists hold for each other, their cast and those who have come before. Tom Jones who wrote as well as directed the piece says “Cool Papa’s Party is to Sammy Davis Jr, as Dreamgirls is to Barry Gordy and the Supremes … It’s a tone poem – a love poem to an era that’s gone, and the people who shaped it… This show feels like it came through me, not from me.”" Cool Papa’s Party was already underway when Tom mentioned it to his friend Maurice Hines, who immediately offered to choreograph it.  “It just came out of my mouth, and I said, “I’ll do it!” Maurice and his brother Gregory knew Sammy Davis Jr. “so it was easy for me to recreate the tap and jazz.”  Maurice talks briefly about his early career, stretching back to the days at the Apollo with the young Sammy Davis, Jr. and on through  “the golden years of Las Vegas” in the 50′s which the show re-creates. “This show is perfect for me …. it’s fanabulous!” Cool Papa’s Party is onstage Feb 5 – March 15 at MetroStage, 1201 North Royal St, Alexandria, VA. Interviews, Podcasts DC Theatre Scene no no http://dctheatrescene.com/2009/01/29/shreks-brian-darcy-james/ http://dctheatrescene.com/2009/01/29/shreks-brian-darcy-james/#comments Thu, 29 Jan 2009 17:30:13 +0000 Richard Seff http://dctheatrescene.com/?p=3764 http://dctheatrescene.com/2009/01/29/shreks-brian-darcy-james/feed/ 1 0:24:36 Brian d’Arcy James Talks with Richard Seff Recorded by Joel Markowitz Sixteen years ago Richard Seff met Brian d’Arcy James when the two performed in Lend Me AaTenor at the Players Theatre in Columbus, Ohio. A bond was formed, an[...] Brian d’Arcy James Talks with Richard Seff Recorded by Joel Markowitz Sixteen years ago Richard Seff met Brian d’Arcy James when the two performed in Lend Me AaTenor at the Players Theatre in Columbus, Ohio. A bond was formed, and Richard has watched Brian grow from the Bellboy in Tenor to Shrek The Ogre in Shrek The Musical, now in its Broadway run. Here, they reminisce about some of the ups and downs of the seventeen years that have lapsed since they met,  in a career that has included plays as well as musicals on the road, regionally and in stock, to Titanic, The Sweet Smell of Success, Dirty Rotten Scoundrels and Shrek The Musical on Broadway. Some highlights:  those early Lend Me a Tenor days, workshopping today’s musicals, James as an unusual choice to play Shrek, and finding Shrek’s voice. Shrek:The Musical is at the Broadway Theatre, 1681 Broadway, NYC. Related: Brian d’Arcy James sings ‘Who I’d Be’ from Shrek on the Today Show (video) Richard Seff’s review of Shrek Richard Seff is author of Supporting Player: My Life Upon the Wicked Stage , celebrating his lifetime on stage and behind the scenes, available through online booksellers, including Amazon.com. Other DCTS Podcasts featuring Richard Seff: Interviews with and about John Kander, With Complete Kander Richard Seff: A Lifetime on Broadway Click here Inside Broadway: A Return Visit with Richard Seff Listen here. Interviews, Podcasts DC Theatre Scene no no http://dctheatrescene.com/2008/12/21/alice-ripley-in-next-to-normal/ http://dctheatrescene.com/2008/12/21/alice-ripley-in-next-to-normal/#comments Sun, 21 Dec 2008 21:21:10 +0000 Joel Markowitz http://dctheatrescene.com/?p=3385 http://dctheatrescene.com/2008/12/21/alice-ripley-in-next-to-normal/feed/ 11 0:25:11 Interviewed by Joel Markowitz Joel Markowitz sat down with Alice Ripley in her dressing room at Arena Stage prior to the December 16th evening performance of Next To Normal. They discussed her role as Diana, the changes that were made for the Arena[...] Interviewed by Joel Markowitz Joel Markowitz sat down with Alice Ripley in her dressing room at Arena Stage prior to the December 16th evening performance of Next To Normal. They discussed her role as Diana, the changes that were made for the Arena Stage production, the “Costco” song and “I Miss The Mountains,” working with Brian d’Arcy James in the NY show ” … what every leading lady wishes. You could just stand and watch him sing to you every night. It’s a really wonderful thing.”, her NYC cast now at Arena Stage and new cast members Louis Hobson and J. Robert Spencer “”…He is so tall like a pine tree-something that shields you from the elements, something you can lean on…he has a great rock voice. He’s different from Brian in every way, and that’s why it works.”,  her theatre career, and great advice that the late Robert Prosky gave her when she met him working on Shakespeare in Hollywood at Arena Stage. DC theatregoers have seen some of Alice’s best work on our local stages. Alice was nominated for two Helen Hayes Awards in 2003 for her performances of “manic” Amy in Company, at the Sondheim Festival, and as Emma in Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Tell Me On A Sunday, both at the Kennedy Center. The following year, in 2004, she was nominated for her performance as Lydia Lansing in Arena Stage’s production of Shakespeare in Hollywood. But it’s Alice Ripley’s mesmerizing performance of Diana Goodman in Arena Stage’s powerful production of Next To Normal, that has the local critics raving. Joel has been an Alice Ripley fan since he saw her play the roles of Mrs. Walker in the Who’s Tommy, Betty Schaefer in Sunset Boulevard,  and Fantine in Les Miserables on Broadway.  But, after seeing her “joint” Tony Award nominated performance as Violet Hilton (with Emily Skinner) in Side Show, Joel turned into an Alice Ripley groupie. Joel returned to NYC to catch her performances of Molly Ivors in The Dead and Janet in The Rocky Horror Show, as well as attend many concerts where Alice appeared. His love and respect for Alice Ripley shines in this podcast. Interviews, Podcasts DC Theatre Scene no no