Shakespeare Spoken Cheekily

The Cheeky Monkey Coffeehouse in Stroudsburg, PA held workshops relating to the 16th/17th Century Poet/Playwright William Shakespeare on June 4th and 5th as led by Richard Rose and #Patrick Bresnyan of Shakespeare in The Poconos (aka PoconoShakes). The first workshop was titled “R-Rated Shakespeare” exploring lines from Shakespeare’s classics not shared in school curriculums and other delicate venues. It proved to be a fun evening allowing the participants to penetrate the depths of many of the well known soliloquies along with those which had been stricken from the original text throughout the ages due to their apparent improprieties.

This revelation in regards to the works of who is considered the best writer of the English language being subject to censorship may be incredible to many. However, the workshop’s facilitators continued to point out one example after another of how many words were either deleted or change to meet the sexual and social sensibilities of the times they touched. Sadly, this continues even unto the present day as school systems seek to appease the restrictive moral standards of the parents whose children they seek to enlighten.

The second workshop was titled “Speak the Speech: Shakespeare Alive” and was again led by Shakespeare in The Poconos (aka PoconoShakes). This workshop offered an opportunity for attendees to engage in putting the bard’s words into action through an insightful exploration of the lines and how they define and anticipate the actions about to take place. It was also mentioned an actor performing Shakespeare would be wise to contemplate why the bard placed a particular work in a specific part of the play. You’ll find more photographs in the Cheeky Monkey 2011 Gallery at www.facebook.com/forwardian.dude.

Shakespeare in The Poconos (aka PoconoShakes) consists of a group of Shakespeare aficionados who are endeavoring to promote the experience one has while studying performing the works written by William Shakespeare. They are a very new group hoping to hold more workshops as well as presenting productions of the works throughout the area. You’ll be able to obtain more information about the group as well as learning how to participate by emailing them at Poconoshakes@gmail.com.

Future events at The Cheeky Monkey include their Open Mic Night with Takes place every Tuesday evening, The “Just Say It: A Spoken Word Symposium” events which take place every Thursday evening, The Forwardian Arts Society Film Lovers’ Gathering on Friday June 24th, and an Artist’s Reception featuring the work of Laura Bee on Friday July 1st beginning at 6pm. The Exhibition continues until September 1st. The Cheeky Monkey Coffeehouse also offers a variety of coffee, drinks, and culinary treats along with events such as the one described in this article. Please Explore The Cheeky Monkey Coffeehouse Website at www.cheekymonkeycoffee.com or Call 570-420-8222 for more information.

Springing into The PoconoArts

The Pocono Arts Council and The Jacob Stroud Corporation co hosted their Annual Visual and Performing Art Celebration on Saturday May 14th to kick off their Art on Main Summer Season which features the work of visual artists, artisans, and performing artists throughout the region. Although this year’s festival was touched by the unseasonably cooler temperatures along with some drizzling precipitation that dampened some spirits, the effects of the climatic conditions began to diminish for me when I encountered my first smile. This was followed by more smiles, embraces, and delightful conversations as the community of art lovers joined together to share their mutual affections toward the work and each other. It was a long winter for many with little to do in regards to the arts and it was good to anticipate the promise of a resurgence of more activity in this regard which this festival has come to represent.

Throughout the town, there were numerous artists and artisans filling the sidewalks and local businesses. One such business was Josephine’s Fleur de lis who presented The Karen Laposh Trunk Show featuring functional art work created by Karen Laposh. Beyond their intrinsic beauty, they served as an aid to diners who choose not to reach for the items placed upon their tables to enhance their meals. I admit to forgetting what she named the work, but I do remember her pointing out they were not “Lazy Susans” as she knows a Susan and she is far from being lazy. You’ll be able to learn more about Karen LaPosh and all Josephine’s Fleur de lis has to offer by exploring their website at www.josephinesonmain.com.

Another local business who share the talent of a local artist was D. R.’s Framing and Art Gallery who held an Artist’s Reception featuring the work of Nancy Pitcher. Her work had a striking quality to it as the depicted scenes increasingly came alive with each glance. Many of the images seems simplistic in their nature, but I’ve often found when one gives a thing extraordinary attention, it becomes extraordinary. My experience with her work severed to prove the assertion. You’ll be able to learn more about the work of Nancy Picture, the other artists presented in the gallery, and all D. R.’s Framing and Art Gallery has to offer by exploring their website at www.drsgallery.com for more information.

Outside the stores and along the streets, the results of The 5th Annual "Fine Art" Parking Meter Competition was seen as the town’s parking meters were adorned with bags depicting a bevy of creative images to enhance the downtown area. There were also a number of Artisans and artists who participated in The PoconoArts Squared components of the event also shared their talents and wares. These PoconoArts Squared events are monthly gatherings held around the Monroe County Courthouse Square and affords a wonderful opportunity to view, purchase, and learn about the art and all the care and skill that goes into its creation by the artists and artisans themselves.

Among those participating in this PoconoArts Squared initiating event were Margaret Benson who presented her Functional Pottery, Rita Heim-Robinson of Morning Glory Studio who presented her Acrylic Paintings, Nikol Kallinteris who presented her Jewelry, Crafts, and Clothing, Ken McGoy who presented his Paintings, Cassandra S. Ferrari of Cassandra’s Beads who presented her work, Christa Nebbia who presented her Wind Chimes, Mariana Russo who presented her Mixed Media works, Mandala Design Works who shared their collective creativity, Kitty Cat Ears and Tails were presented by Starving Otaku Productions, Chainmail Jewelry was presented by Tristan Buckley, and Arielle Sekula presented her Paintings and Polymer Clay Figures (very cool Ninjas) while healing services were presented by Gorman Chiropractic. Please Explore The Pocono Arts Council website (listed below) to learn more about these artists and artisans and how you can share your creative endeavors in future PoconoArts Squared events.

The theatrical arts were represented through a production of “Voyage of the Forgotten Immigrants” written by Kathy Kroll was presented at The School of Visual and Performing Arts with performances by Ann Matthews, Janice Brightman, Noel Nelson, Tiffani Thompson, Drew Zafiropoulos, Josephe Carnevale, Jenny Aniano, Barbara Kavelines, Aliza Zafiropoulos, Laurel Aniano, Gavin Bauman, and Elexa Bauman. The production was directed by Shellie Bransford and Stage Managed by Mary Louise Vavelines. The Sets, Lights, and Sound for the production was done by Steve Henderson-Grady while the make up was applied by Cheryl Klinle. The Graphic design was done by Minnie Ospa while Susie Forrester served the production as it’s photographer. I did ot experience the presentation, but there were many approving smiles leaving the School with many saying it was a good show. You can learn more about this and other presentations held at The School of Visual and Performing Arts along with their educational offerings by exploring their website at www.schoolofvisualandperformingarts.org.

There was music throughout the town which included a performance by Robert Young of The Alabaster Box who served as lead singer for a band who shared songs of faith outside their newly established place of worship. #The Alabaster Box seeks to utilize music, passion, and all types of creativity and art to express worship in accord to the precepts of the Christian faith. You’ll be able to learn more about The Alabaster Box and all they have to offer by exploring their website at www.abwac.com for more information.

With all the wonders of the day, it’s a challenge to point out one outstanding aspect of the entire experience. However, if there was one, it would be the Artists’ Reception of the Members’ Exhibition held at The Artspace Gallery which houses the offices of The Pocono Arts Council. This annual show provided an opportunity for local artists who are members of the Council and the Gallery to strut their stuff. And, the stuff they were strutting proved to be a grand and glorious colorful array of images and flowing hues. The sheer magnitude of the number and essence of the pieces presented nearly overwhelmed the senses but, in doing so, those who attended the reception experienced it later as a cleansing allowing them to enter the world outside the gallery afresh. It’s difficult to imagine how anyone could judge the work presented in order to award the prizes the Arts Council utilizes to recognize those artists with talents that stands above their peers, but the gallery did find such individuals whose jobs must have proved very daunting.

The award recipients in each category were Sharon Cosgrove who received the award for 1st place, Carol Pooley who received the award for 2nd place, and Carlo Salvo who received the award for 3rd place while Jill Swersie was awarded Honorable Mentioned in The Oils Category. Ka-son Reeves received the award for 1st place, Derek Cameron received the award for 2nd place, and Jessica Yusko received the award for 3rd place while Jean Perry was awarded Honorable Mentioned in The Acrylics Category. Jan Swift received the award for 1st place, Will Daskal received the award for 2nd place, Bev Abel received the award for 3rd place while Joan Sayer was awarded Honorable Mentioned in The Watercolors Category. Alice Prall was received the award for 1st place, Brandon Durand received the award for 2nd place, and Tom Augusta received the award for 3rd place while Paula George was awarded Honorable Mentioned in The Works on Paper Category. Pam Mading received the award for 1st place, Iraina Caramelli received the award for 2nd place, Nancy Bohm was chosen to be 3rd place while Barb Robinson was awarded Honorable Mentioned in The Mixed Media Category. Bill Maile received the award for 1st place, Don Sack received the award for 2nd place, and Mary Jane Arner received the award for 3rd place while Don Manza was awarded Honorable Mentioned in The Photography Category. Jorge Cruz received the award for 1st place, Lois Kirkwood received the award for 2nd place, and Andrea Rimberg received the award for 3rd place, while Pat Bruck was awarded Honorable Mentioned in The 3D Works Non Functional Category. April Field received the award for 1st place in The Fine Crafts - Functional Category and Christine Medley received the award for Best of Show for her work in Photography. The Jurors who judged the incredible work were Edwin Havas and Lenore Fiore Mills.

Other work featured during the Artists’ Reception were creations by Eino Antilla, Joyce Bambach, Stephanie Bockhorn, James Chesnick, Mark Ciocca, Arlene Conklin, M. J. Cramer, George Debronsky, Stephanie DiPasquale, Shirley Epstein, Sherley Escribano, Susan Field, Marcia Flammonde, Constance Fowlkes, Debra Frantz, Shelly Grillo, Judith Hankins, Charles Hanson, Julian Harr, Marlana Holsten, Jill Howell, Dee Huxster, Grace Ikai, Kent Johnson, Jaclyn Keller, Linda Kreckel, Karen Laposh, Bud LaRosa, Reva B. Levy, Jordon Lewis, Tricia Lowery Lippert, Patricia Mack, Myke Maldonado, Clair Marcus, John McAllister, Clavertis Miller, Carlisle Nostrame, Diane Paulhamus, Gordon Perry, Jill Perry, Matthew Pierce, Joan Polishook, Joan Raushi, Bob Reilly, Laurinda Faye Rubin, Marianna Russo, June Schott, Jim Smeltz, Chris Sparling Richard Spezzano, Alicia Turner, Jan Ward, Susanne Werfelman, Linford Werkheiser, Polly Werkheiser, and Sally Weiner Grotta. This was an incredible display which left a lingering impression upon those who experienced it. The Exhibition continues until May 29th.

Outside The ArtSpace Gallery, The Lost Ramblers performed outside just prior to the awards ceremonies while The SheilaMark Duo performed during them. As incredible as it seemed, their sounds lured attendees out of the gallery with their siren’s song. While The Lost Ramblers inspired people to kick up their heels with some down home bluegrass renditions, the sultry sounds of The SheilaMark Duo wooed the senses creating an internal environment transcending all others.

As I was leaving the festival, I saw Stan Stewart performing on the corner of 7th and Main Streets. I’ve heard him play in the past and would have liked to return to experience it again. Alas, this was not a possibility as I wasn’t the driver of the vehicle. However, the memory inspired by the open passenger’s door window sustained me as the notes he created echoed throughout my mind bringing it to a much welcomed state. You’ll find more photographs taken throughout the day in The Evening on Main 2011 Gallery at www.facebook.com/forwardian.dude

The PoconoArts Council is designed to build the communities in which it serves artistically and culturally by providing leadership, service, and education. It does so by offering avenues for artists to display their work through the ArtSpace and other galleries, educational opportunities for those who would like to explore and/or enhance their creative natures, and encouragement to those who seek to express and/or support the arts. You’ll be able to learn more about The PoconoArts Council and all they offer at www.poconoarts.org for more information.

The Jacob Stroud Corporation seeks to honor the rich and diverse culture of the Pocono Mountains of PA which Stroudsburg, PA serves as its focal point. They do so through their support of area businesses, tourist attractions, and artistic endeavors of their citizens. You’ll be able to learn more about The PoconoArts Council and all they offer at www.stroudsburg.net for more information.

A Happy Monkey

The Cheeky Monkey Coffeehouse in Stroudsburg, PA hosted a Comedy Night on Friday January 14th presented by The Off Track Players. The comedy troupe featured local comedians Joseph Carnevale, Kevin Cronk, Penny Dee, Anthony DiSanto, Matt Duffin, and Tiffani Thompson who showcased their talents in a variety of sketches, monologues, and improvisational games which amused their audience. Audience members were invited to participate in this game which enhanced the delight of experiencing the show.

These games included one called, “ABC” in which a location was selected by the audience and each performer had to begin their sentence in alphabetical order in relation to where they were. Another game consisted of members of the troupe being placed in another location and going through the scene while it change4d from one genre to another. The scene for this game was set in a laundry mat with genres that included science fiction and martial arts films. It was quite amusing.

It was a fun night out and a great opportunity to hear some original work by local comics. The next Comedy Night at The Cheeky Monkey featuring The Off Track Players is scheduled for Friday February 11th beginning at 7pm. You’ll find more photographs taken during the January 14th event in The Cheeky Monkey 2011 Gallery at www.facebook.com/forwardian.dude.

The Off-Track Comedy Players offer a plethora of comedic and non-comedic services (including live-action murder mystery shows) and are available for resorts, clubs as well as private or public events. They’ll also be appearing at The Daniels Family Resort in Canadensis, PA sometime in the near future in addition to their next show at The Cheeky Monkey. Please Explore The Off-Track Comedy Players Website at www.offtrackcomedy.com or Call 570-486-6787 for more information.

Other future events at The Cheeky Monkey include The “Just Say It: A Spoken Word Symposium” events which take place every Thursday evening at 7pm. The Cheeky Monkey Coffeehouse offers a variety of coffee, drinks, and culinary treats along with events such as the one described in this article. Please Explore The Cheeky Monkey Coffeehouse Website at www.cheekymonkeycoffee.com or Call 570-420-8222 for more information.

A Monkey Off the Tracks

The Cheeky Monkey Coffeehouse in Stroudsburg, PA hosted a Comedy Night on Friday December 3rd presented by The Off Track Players. The comedy troupe featured local comedians Joseph Carnevale, Kevin Cronk, Penny Dee, Anthony DiSanto, Matt Duffin, and Tiffani Thompson who showcased their talents in a variety of sketches, monologues, and improvisational games which amused their audience. Audience members were invited to participate in this an other aspects of the show which enhanced the delight of experiencing it.

These games included one called, “ABC” in which a location was selected by the audience and each performer had to begin their sentence in alphabetical order in relation to where they were. Another game consisted of a member of the troupe stepping outside while the Audience selected the identity of a famous person he or she was to become when they re entered. It was up to the comedian to guess his or her identity after receiving a series of clues.

It was a fun night out and a great opportunity to hear some original work by local comics. The next Comedy Night at The Cheeky Monkey featuring The Off Track Players is scheduled for Friday January 14th beginning at 7pm. You’ll find more photographs taken during the December 3rd event in The Forwardian Arts Society Cheeky Monkey 2010 Gallery at www.myspace.com/forwardian_arts.

The Off-Track Comedy Players offer a plethora of comedic and non-comedic services (including live-action murder mystery shows) and are available for resorts, clubs as well as private or public events. Prior to Friday January 14th engagement at The Cheeky Monkey Coffeehouse, they’ll be appearing at The Daniels Family Resort in Canadensis, PA on Friday December 17th. Please Explore The Off-Track Comedy Players Website at www.offtrackcomedy.com or Call 570-486-6787 for more information.

Other future events at The Cheeky Monkey include The “Just Say It: A Spoken Word Symposium” events which take place every Thursday evening at 7pm, a Closing Reception on Saturday December 11th for an exhibition to benefit the "Thrive to Survive" Foundation, and a concert featuring singer/songwriter Jeni Hackett on Friday December 17th beginning at 6pm. The Cheeky Monkey Coffeehouse offers a variety of coffee, drinks, and culinary treats along with events such as the one described in this article. Please Explore The Cheeky Monkey Coffeehouse Website at www.cheekymonkeycoffee.com or Call 570-420-8222 for more information.

Funny Monkey

The Cheeky Monkey Coffeehouse in Stroudsburg, PA hosted a Comedy Night on Friday November 5th presented by The Off Track Players. The comedy troupe featured local comedians who showcased their talents in a variety of sketches and improvisational games which amused their audience. These games included one called, “ABC” in which a location was selected by the audience and each performer had to begin their sentence in alphabetical order in relation to where they were. Audience members were invited to participate in this an other aspects of the show which enhanced the delight of experiencing it.

You’ll find more photographs in The Forwardian Arts Society Cheeky Monkey 2010 Gallery at www.myspace.com/forwardian_arts. The next Comedy Night at The Cheeky Monkey is scheduled for Friday December 3rd beginning at 7pm. It was a fun night out and a great opportunity to hear some original work by local comics.

Other future events at The Cheeky Monkey include The “Just Say It: A Spoken Word Symposium” events which take place every Thursday evening at 7pm and an Artists’ Reception on Friday November 12th beginning at 6pm for an exhibition to benefit the "Thrieve to Survive" Foundation. The exhibition continues until December 12th. The Forwardian Arts Society will also hold its next Film Lovers Gathering at the Cheeky Monkey on Friday November 19th at 7pm featuring the 1965 film titled, “Incubus” starring William Shatner. The events is free and open to all who love the art of film. There will be a discussion period after the screening in which The Cheeky Monkey offers a free crepe with a purchase of a beverage to the attendees. The Cheeky Monkey Coffeehouse offers a variety of coffee, drinks, and culinary treats along with events such as the one described in this article. Please Explore The Cheeky Monkey Coffeehouse Website at www.cheekymonkeycoffee.com or Call 570-420-8222 for more information.

The Forwardian Arts Society is a fellowship for people who love the arts seeking to enhance the creative community by encouraging those interested in the arts to go forward toward their dreams, by supporting those groups and individuals who are manifesting their dreams through performances and/or presentations, and by loving them and all they do. Please Explore The Forwardian Arts Society Website at www.theforwardianartssociety.com for more information about the fellowship and all it has to offer.

Villainous Heroes and Heroic Villains at The Sherman and More

The Sherman Community Gallery located within The Sherman Theatre in Stroudsburg, PA held an Artists’ Reception on Thursday October 7th for their “Heroes and Villains” Art Show. The exhibit was organized by The Stroudsburg Area Art Alliance (SAAA) and the works presented were as varied in styles and techniques as were the artists who participated. The evening included musical performances by You and Charlie and The Eric J. Becker Experimental Experience Project Tour: Business Edition. The event also presented offerings from vendors “Give Headwear” which is a charity based headwear company and “Creature Cards.”

The artists who participated in the exhibit included Adam Kuder, Rebecca Crockett, Chris Francz, Josh Bodwell, Myke Maldonado, Michael Hendra, Alison Gray, Thomas Dillon, David Ohlerking, Michael Parsons, Mark Purcell, Anna Marie Hendricks, Arielle Sekula, Camilla Brecheen, Mike Strunk, and Judyta Zarach. The pieces in the show ranged from unique visual interpretations of classic comic book characters like Superman and The Joker to original personages of imagined entities as well as those existing in their circle of friends. A modest number of art and music lovers attended the reception and the outstanding qualities of the overall work was well received as was the musical performances which complimented the exhibit quite well. The exhibition continues until December 1st and you’ll find more Photographs of the reception in The Forwardian Arts Society Visual Arts 2010 Gallery at www.myspace.com/forwardian_arts.

The Sherman Theatre was built in the 1920s and now is equipped to present many of today’s biggest shows offering a full bar along with the sound, comfort, and historic feel of their incredible performance venue. Their next presentations include Action Item on Saturday October 16th beginning at 6pm as part of their Independent Rock Series, 311 on Wednesday October 20th at 8pm, Shawn Colvin on Friday October 22nd at 8pm, Ke$ha on Thursday October 28th, another installment of their Severed Sinema Series on Friday October 29th, and a Pre-Party featuring a Midnight Screening of “The Rocky Horror Picture Show” beginning at 10pm. Please Contact The Sherman Theatre at 570-420-2808 or Explore their Website at www.shermantheatre.com for more information.

The Stroudsburg Area Art Alliance (SAAA) offers an opportunity for all creative people to explore, enhance, and share their talents. They offer weekly Artist Socials beginning 5pm held at The Starbucks Coffeehouse located in Stroudsburg, PA in which artists, photographers, musicians, and other at all skill levels are welcomed. The next exhibition scheduled for The Shawnee Gallery will be their “Bedtime Stories Show” whose Artists’ Reception is Thursday December 9th featuring musicals performances by Billy Mack Collector and David Ohlerking. Please Contact The Stroudsburg Area Art Alliance (SAAA) at StroudsburgAreaArtAlliance@yahoo.com or explore their website at www.facebook.com/StroudsburgAreaArtAlliance for more information.

My visitation to the Artists’ Reception was preceded by The Forwardian Arts Society very first Performing Arts Gathering outside the Cheeky Monkey Coffeehouse in Stroudsburg, PA while guitarist Derek Tucker performed inside. It was a seasonable October evening in which many ideas on what this new aspect of our fellowship focusing on the arts of Theatre and Dance can explore for the coming Spring. These included holding a monthly evening of 10 minute plays presented in collaboration with local theatrical groups including ESU, hosting Play Reading Parties in which participants agree on a play to read, bring their copy of it, choose a part to portray, and simply read it to one another, hosting evenings filled with drumming and dance, and an evening of free style dancing. You’ll find more Photographs taken during the Gathering in The Forwardian Arts Society Performing Arts Lovers’ Gathering Gallery at www.myspace.com/forwardian_arts.

The Forwardian Arts Society is a fellowship for people who love the arts seeking to enhance the creative community by encouraging those interested in the arts to go forward toward their dreams, by supporting those groups and individuals who are manifesting their dreams through performances and/or presentations, and by loving them and all they do. The next gathering will take place on Wednesday October 20th at 7pm and all those who love Theatre and Dance are invited to attend to lend their ideas, talents, and organizational skills as we go forward together. Other future Gatherings to be held at The Cheeky Monky Coffeehouse include a Literary Lovers‘ Gathering on Thursday October 21st at 6pm and a Film Lovers‘ Gathering on Friday November 5th. Please Explore The Forwardian Arts Society Website at www.theforwardianartssociety.com or call 570-269-3348 for mote information.

As previously mentioned, The Cheeky Monkey Coffeehouse presented the music of Guitarist Derek Tucker who played a series of cover tunes to delight those who were in attendance. It was a nice set to listen to prior to going next door to the Sherman Theatre to enjoy the “Villains and Heroes Show” previously written about in this article. You’ll find more Photographs in The Forwardian Arts Society Cheeky Monkey 2010 Gallery at www.myspace.com/forwardian_arts.

In addition to events like this one and The Forwardian Arts Society Gatherings, The Cheeky Monkey Coffeehouse hosts a number of events including poetry readings, film nights, and more. They also offer a variety of coffee, drinks, and culinary treats. Please Explore The Cheeky Monkey Coffeehouse Website at www.cheekymonkeycoffee.com or call 570-420-8222 for more information

A Night of Favorites

The Shawnee Playhouse in Shawnee on Delaware, PA presented a cabaret-style musical revue titled, “Favorites” on August 12th featuring cast members of the theatrical productions their presenting this season. These productions include “The Music Man” running until August 28th, “The Secret Garden” running until August 29th, “I Do, I Do” running until September 3rd, and “The Last of the Red Hot Lovers” running until September 5th. The evening gave the cast members an opportunity to share their talents outside the characters they portray allowing each to do something creative just for the fun of it.

The evening consisted of a variety of musical performances ranging from show tunes and torch songs to folk songs and an instrumental piece on an accordion. A modest gathering attended the event which was very enjoyable. The show was the second of a three part series with the third and final one taking place on Thursday August 26th. The admission is free. Please Contact The Shawnee Playhouse at 570-421-5093 or visit their Website at www.theshawneeplayhouse.com for more information.

Photograph provided by The Shawnee Playhouse.

“The Good Mother”

The Shawnee Playhouse in Shawnee on Delaware, PA presented a staged reading on Thursday July 29th of an original poetic dream play composed by Christopher Centrella titled, “The Good Mother” as part of their Fireside Theatre Series. The evening began as the author introduced the play noting it was a work in progress and invited the audience to stay after the presentation to share their thoughts which would provide valuable feedback as he intended to continue the creative process and re-write some of the work. As the first lines of the play were being spoken, the audience began to realize this is a theatrical work deserving some thoughtful and reflective conversation long after this presentation was concluded.

The theatrical approach of the play was in a non linier style utilizing dream logic. A number of the audience members noted they found this approach a bit confusing, but this is the very method dreams choose to communicate their messages to us. Utilizing the same technique produced a profound effect of drawing the attention of the audience deeper into the work as their state of confusion enticed them to engage in thoughts designed to make sense of what didn’t’.

The play is essentially about (according to the advance promotion) “a mystery that unravels to expose one family’s hidden tragedy. In a shifting dreamscape where nothing is as it seems, loyalties are tested and bonds irrevocably broken. But the nightmares of the past hold the keys to the future, and the hope for redemption.” But, it is about more than what the official description reveals. After all, too much exposition of the work would ruin the discovers it has to offer unique to each individual experiencing it.

The reading was presented very well and the acting was suburb. Even though the actors were on book (Script in hand), the level of difficulty their characters presented created challenges to their talents some have noted they seldom encounter in their theatrical experiences. It was also noted these challenges made them better actors as a result of facing them. These actors included Sara Ferguson as Catalina, Maria Picon as Prudence, John Madis as Elijah, Christopher Centrella (the play’s author) as The Father, Amy Cramer as The Mother, and Joe Bednarchik as Raven.

The presentation also included a slide show presentation of images enhancing many of the play’s elements. It was mentioned “The Good Mother” was written as a very visual play and the audience present during its reading was only receiving a portion of what it has to offer. And, what a portion it was.

Although it is a work in progress, I found the play to be very well written. The playwright demonstrates his love for language and the imagery it can create in the minds of all who hear a well crafted phrase. He also demonstrated his understanding plays are non merely written but experienced through sights and sounds. There are many new playwrights who merely write dialogue without listening to it. But, Mr. Centrella not only listened to the words he wrote, but taught them to sing. It was mentioned the play will be presented at East Stroudsburg University sometime in the future. I, for one, have every intention on seeing it. You’ll find more photographs in The Forwardian Arts Society Theater 2010 Gallery at www.myspace.com/forardian_arts.

“The Good Mother” written by Christopher Centrella was presented as part of The Shawnee Playhouse Fireside Theatre Series which was created as a forum for the artistic voices of aspiring local playwrights, actors, directors, and producers. The series serves as a supportive testing ground for new voices, a place for unique or untried approaches, and for seldom-done or little-known pieces which a commercial theatre could not normally take a chance on. In this way, Fireside hopes to provide an eclectic selection of enjoyable, thought-provoking theatrical experiences to local audiences.

The Shawnee Playhouse in Shawnee on Delaware, PA presents numerous theatrical productions along with special events like Fireside Theatre presentations. Their current productions include “The Music Man” and “Willy Wonka Junior” running until August 28th, “The Secret Garden” running until August 29th, “I Do, I Do” running until September 3rd, and “The Last of the Red Hot Lovers” running until September 5th. Their next presentation will be The Center Stage Player’s production of Neil Simon’s “Rumors” presented September 24th until October 24th. You’ll be able to read The Forwardian Arts Society Theatrical of many of these productions on my profile on Facebook, Myspace, and bloggers. Please Explore The Shawnee Playhouse Website www.theshawneeplayhouse.com or call 570-421-5093 for more information.

Congratulations to Local Thespians

The Forwardian Arts Society would like to congratulate our local theatrical companies for receiving nominations for “The 2010 Northeast Pennsylvania Theatrical Alliance (NEPTA) Awards” to take place on Saturday April 10th at The Ehrhardts Waterfront Banquet Center www.ehrhardts.com located on Lake Wallenpaupack, PA. The awards dinner and ceremonies take place every year to honor local non profit theatrical productions throughout the North East PA area. This year’s event will be hosted by Froggy 101 Morning Show host Doc Medek www.froggy101.com. The doors open around 5pm and reservations are required. There are also price listings for those who would like to attend both the dinner and show or the show only. Please Explore The Northeast Pennsylvania Theatrical Alliance (NEPTA) Website at www.zyworld.com/nepta/NEPTA_Awards.htm for more information.

Among the nominations received by The Worthington Players www.theshawneeplayhouse.com were Best Musical and Best Family Show for their production of “Daddy’s Little Girl,” nominations for Best Original Production and Best Drama went to their production of “Pieces of Evelyn” in addition to nominations to Dan Eash for Best Supporting Actor in a Drama (in multiple roles), AmyJo Schaefer for Best Supporting Actress in a Drama (in multiple roles) and Amy Cramer for Best Lead Actress in a Drama (as Evelyn). Nomination for Best Drama went to their production of “The Gin Game” as did nominations for Best Director of a Drama to Midge McClosky. The Worthington Players production of “Snapshots” received nominations for Best Costumes, Best Comedy, and Best Overall production with nominations for Best Lead Actress in a Comedy going to Brydie Jacques as Sherry and Midge McClosky as Hollis along with a nomination for Best Director of a Comedy going to Rob Eilenberger Howell. Their production of “A Life in the Theater” received a nomination for Best Sound Design for Chris Centrella and their production of “’Night Mother” received a nomination for Best Lighting Design for Eric Dwyer.

The Pennsylvania Rep Company www.myspace.com/pennsylvaniarepcompany received a nomination for Best Drama for their production of William Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet” along with nominations going to Amy Cramer for Best Supporting Actress as Lady Capulet, Patrick Murphy for Best Lead Actor as Romeo, Marshall Haskell for Best Juvenile Actor as Benvolio, and Michael Harron for Best Director of a Drama.

Originality Staged

The Shawnee Playhouse in Shawnee on Delaware, PA presented their Annual Series of Staged Readings February 27th and 28th featuring presentations of plays chosen to be the finalist of The Shawnee Playhouse 2011 Original Playwright Contest. Those reading the works while seated were Travis Southard, Kevin Hillman, Mark Lichty, Nance Brown, Mark Pender, Kim Moldovan, and Midge McClosky who served the event as it’s emcee and the Playhouse as its General Manager. The plays were varied in style and topics and members of the audience were given an opportunity to select their favorite play. The play generating the most interest will become a full production at The Shawnee Playhouse in January 2011.

The plays read on Saturday February 27th at 2pm were “Mandarin Dinner For One” by John E. McGuigan, “Orpheus” by Paul Adam Smeltz (Yeah, that’s me), “Occasional Versus” by Robert Grogan, “A Night in the Toll Booth/Pyscho Soccer Mom” by Tom Hudak, “Whimsical Grimm” by Stephen A. Williams. The plays read later that day at 8pm were “Keeping My Voice Down” by Craig Czury, “Tolstoi in Trepidation” by Maureen Bunns Shannon, and “Spanakopita” by Larry Rosler. On Sunday February 28th at 2pm the plays to be presented are “Light From Us would Set the Sun on Fire” by Craig Czury, “On Innocent Ears Befallen” by Jonathon Davies, “Ethereal Killers” by Zanne Hall, “The Scranton Poem Opera” by Craig Czury, and “Ukelele Land” by Uke Jackson. I was only able to attend the Saturday 2pm performance.

However, if my experience that afternoon was any indication how the remainder of the series went, I would say it was a great time to be in the theatre. It was wonderful being able to hear new and exciting works written for the stage while imagining in your mind’s eye what they would look like upon the stage in a full production. This exploration into our imaginations were enhanced by the opportunity to actually selecting a play that will become a full production in the future. It was like being a producer with plays being in audition.

I was pleased to have my play, “Orpheus,” included among them. From a playwright’s perspective, it was good to be able to hear my work. Every writer knows the act of writing is a solitary one with certain limitations. You can read your work over and over, you can mouth the words to your self, or you can email it to friends to see what they think. But, until you actually hear someone else read the words, you never really know the language of the piece you’re writing. How does it sound? Is there a natural flow in the dialogue? Are the themes germane to the work being communicated? All these questions and more can be answered by hearing the work thus enabling us writers to modify, enhance, or discard aspects of it.

Although I had hoped to win the competition, I mainly wanted to hear how my play sounded so I could determine whether it needed more work. Well, I heard it and it does. I’ve discovered some inconsistencies and repetitions I had no idea existed from just reading the material silently to myself. I have come to believe quite some time ago it is bad form to vote for yourself in this type of competition. I voted for another play but not merely because if was in good form to do so. I felt the play was much better written than my play as it presently is and would be a much better production. It was very amusing and I’m still thinking of the funny lines it contained.

As I’ve mentioned, I only attended one of the three presentations and I haven’t seen all of the plays to be selected. So, I won’t reveal the play I voted because, if another play is selected, it might indicate the audience didn’t chose the best of the plays presented. This may be a slightly egotistical presumption on my part as it may not matter if I reveal who I vote for or not. But, just in case it does matter in some parallel universe….

The final series of plays to be presented in a Staged Reading will be 2pm today. It may be already too late for many of those reading this to attend. I’m sorry this did not get to you sooner as it was a very good experience for those who love the theatre and would like to catch a glimpse in the theatrical process. You’ll find more photographs in The Forwardian Arts Society Theatre 2010 Gallery at www.myspace.com/forwardian_arts.

The next Shawnee Playhouse presentations will be “A Wee Bit O’ The Irish” by Rod Foote March 5th - 14th, “The Importance of Being Ernest” by Oscar Wilde March 27th - April 11th, and The Center Stage Players’ production of “Fuddy Meers” by David Lindsay-Abaire April 30th - May 9th.

Those who enjoy the Passionate Art Lover level of membership in The Forwardian Arts Society are offered a $3.00 discount off the admission fee of The Shawnee Playhouse Productions (excluding Children Theatrical Productions and those presented by non Shawnee Production Companies). Please contact The Shawnee Playhouse at 570-421-5093 for more information and to reserve your ticket.

Websites and email addresses of those mentioned in this article are The Shawnee Playhouse at www.theshawneeplayhouse.com and The Center Stage Players at centerstageplayers@yahoo.com.

Martians at The Bookhouse

The Eastern Monroe Public Library* in Stroudsburg, PA hosted The Ghost Light Theatre* on Friday November 20th as part of their Bookhouse Series. They presented their re-creation of an installment of The Mercury Theatre on Air radio drama production of H. G. Wells “The War of the Worlds.” A large group of fans gathered to enjoy an evening experiencing the dramatization and all the history associated with it. It was an enjoyable performance as one could almost close their eyes and relive those auditory moments and the emotions of dreadful apprehension they inspired.

The Theatre Company itself was founded in in 1937 by Orson Welles and John Houseman and earned a reputation for their inventive adaptation of William Shakespeare's “Julius Caesar” which was set in contemporary Fascist Italy. They were later picked up by The Columbia Broadcasting System (CBS) to present an anthology series which began with their production of Bram Stoker's “Dracula” with Welles playing both Count Dracula and Doctor Seward. The broadcast of The Mercury Theatre “War of the Worlds” took place as a Halloween Special in the series on October 30th, 1938. It was written for the medium by Howard Koch and directed by Orson Wells who also starred in it. The series ended on December 4th, 1938 with their production of "Bridge of San Luis Rey."

The first two thirds of “The War of the Worlds” broadcast was presented as a series of simulated news bulletins which suggested to many listeners an actual Martian invasion was in progress. Since The Mercury Theatre on the Air was a “sustaining show” running without commercial breaks, the dramatic effect was heightened. There were numerous accounts of listeners believing an actual extraterrestrial invasion was in progress creating an unprecedented panic throughout the country. This was partly due to people listening to only a portion of the broadcast missing the introduction to the show and partly due to the ever growing tensions throughout the world which eventually led to the outbreak of World War Two. Regardless of the cause of the reaction, the episode was widely criticized as its news-bulletin format was considered cruelly deceptive by some newspapers and public figures.

The Ghost Light Theatre* re-creation of “The War of the Worlds” broadcast did not produce the panic the original was known for, but it did prove to be a good evening out. The cast performing the radio drama consisted of Dan Eash*, Irene Garner*, Maude Garner, Michelle Kane* (who also participated in the Program Art and Design along with Ethan Kane), Mark Lichty*, Kyle Mahaney* (who served as the production‘s Sound Consultant), Rob Ramos*, Patrick Turner*, and Chris Webster. The Production Stage Manager was Tom Nordin and was introduced by Barbara Keiser who is the Director of The Eastern Monroe Public Library*. Please Contact The Eastern Monroe Public Library* at 570-421-0800 for more information on future events in their Bookhouse Series and all they have to offer the community. You’ll find more Photographs in The Forwardian Arts Society Theatre 2009 gallery www.myspace.com/forwardian_arts.

The Website of The Eastern Monroe Public Library* is www.monroepl.org.

(*) denotes members of The Forwardian Arts Society in good standing and are considered Our Good Friends.

A Church filled with Elvis

The Pocono Community Church in Tobyhanna, PA presented and evening of poetry, theatre, and songs all in dedication to Elvis on Saturday August 15th. Numerous Elvis Presley fans young and alive during his heyday provided a moderate audience for the event entitled, “Walk a Mile in My Shoes: A Spiritual Journey with Elvis.” Elvis impersonator Pastor Bernard Weishaupt highlighted the show with a multitude of songs made famous by “The King” while being backed up by The Elvis Review which consisted of Jeanette Arnone, Lynn Marie Mazaleski, Suzanne McCool*,and Lenny O’Neal. The evening also included some poetry and a theatrical presentation of “Take a Walk Down Lonely Street” written by local author Michael Wetmore* with appearances by David Tipka, Eric Mark, Wayne Dotter, Teri Dellaria*, and Paul Adam Smeltz* (yeah, that’s me).

Although I’m not a very big Elvis fan, I found the event to be very entertaining. Those who were and remain devoted to the singer eagerly demonstrated their affections at every opportune moment. Actually, experiencing the reactions of the audience to what was occurring onstage made the event even more enjoyable.

As far as the play goes, well, since I was in it, it would be kind of inappropriate for me to make any comment on it. After all, how objective can I be? However, if you were there and would like to share your thoughts on it, I’m sure many (including me) would like to read your review. Also, since I was on stage, I didn’t take any of the pictures during the play. My nephew Thomas did and (I may be biased) I think he did a great job. I only wish he’d shave a few pounds off my fat butt.

Proceeds gained from “Walk a Mile in My Shoes: A Spiritual Journey with Elvis” benefited Family Promise of Monroe County which helps local homeless families find permanent residence and lasting independence. Please contact Family Promise of Monroe County at 570-420-8589 for more information.

The link to The Pocono Community Church is www.poconocc.com.

You’ll find more photographs in The Forwardian Arts Society Music 2009 Gallery. www.myspace.com/forwardian_arts.

(*) denotes members of The Forwardian Arts Society in good standing and are considered Our Good Friends.

Theatrical Review: A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to The Forum

A FUNNY THING HAPPENED ON THE WAY TO THE FORUM
Book by: Burt Shevelove and Larry Gelbart
Music and Lyrics by: Stephen Sondheim
Based on the comedies of Plautus (c. 254-184 BCE)
Directed by: Margaret Joyce Ball*
Theatrical Review by: Paul Adam Smeltz

The East Stroudsburg University (ESU)* Department of Theatre presented their production of “A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to The Forum” by Burt Shevelove, Larry Gelbart, Stephen Sondheim which is based upon the Ancient Roman comedies written Plautus. There are many productions which appeared on the ESU stage which challenged our thinking and perception of our lives and the world around us. “A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to The Forum” isn’t one of these plays. Instead, the play simply provides its audience with a good time making the theatrical experience an enjoyable one.

As mentioned before, “A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to The Forum” is based upon the works of Roman Playwright Plautus which lent itself well to the Burlesque Theatre so popular from the 1930s and up to the 1960’s and a little bit beyond. Burlesque were well known for the comedic sketches which included a lot of slapstick and double entendre humor. They were also known for their striptease artists and the bawdiness they inspired among other things. With this in mind, this reviewer was a bit surprised the promotion of the production mentioned the play was suitable for the whole family, but I also suppose what was once considered bawdy and risqué when the play was originally produced is a bit passé in 2009. After all, although the courtesans were enticing, none of them took off their clothing. Oh well, like one of the characters in the play said, “You can’t have everything.”

The play itself is simply about a young man falling in love with a young woman whom he sees from afar (in the window of a brothel). His desire for her hand (to start with) leads him to bargain with his slave to win her in exchange for the slave’s freedom. After a great number of confused yet hilarious escapades, their mutual love is allowed to flourish (by getting married?) and the slave gains his freedom. This simple avenue of comedy leads its audience down many side roads all of which are a joy to travel up as each are more delightfully funnier than the one preceding it.

The play also features a number of musical numbers written by a young Stephen Sondheim who may have begun his road to fame with “A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to The Forum.” The songs are enjoyable as they are memorable but this reviewer could not help but wonder if this production would not have been enhanced by some dance movements to accompany the musical pieces as many of the songs were sung by actors who simply stood in one spot. I also found some of the blocking (which is the art of placement of the actors on stage by the director) a bit questionable as some of the actors back was to the audience. Regardless, the ESU production of “A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to The Forum” is an enjoyable experience for those who come out to see it.

The play consisted of characters whose names aptly described their nature Christopher Palardy portrayed both Prologus who provided the plays prologue and Pseudolus the slave whose cunning leads him to helping his master to gain his love thus gaining freedom for himself. Michael Demyan IV* portrayed Pseudolus’ master named Hero who is a bit dimwitted in spite of (or because of) his noble upbringing but he is in love. Oh boy. Kristen Stachina portrays Phillia the virgin in the brothel who is the object of Hero’s affections but promised to be sold/married to a prominent Roman Military Commander. Luke Thomas Swierczek portrayed Senex who is Hero’s Father and Jessica Ann Bickel portrays Domina his domineering leather clad wife. Brian Foley* portrayed Hysterium Senex and Domina’s slave who is, well, hysterical as is played right on by Mr. Foley*. Shamus Halloran* portrays Lycus who is a neighbor of Senex and Domina and owns a brothel from which their son saw the light of his life. David Ausem portrayed Erronius another neighbor of Senex and Domina whose children were stolen as babies with identifying rings upon their fingers by pirates who now returns home as a very old man. Mr. Ausum’s portrayal almost steals the show in spite of his role being a relatively small one. The main Characters of the play is rounded off by Ryan Castro who portrays Miles Gloriosus the very vain and prominent Roman Military Commander to whom Phillia is promised to.

As with all Greco/Roman plays, it featured many characters who help move the plot along. In this production, they’re the Proteans as portrayed by Ryan Drozd, Karen Schwander, Keighty Simmons, and Alexander P. Wirth. Rounding out the cast (and rather nicely, too) were the Courtesans who were portrayed by Kristal Schroeder as Tintinabula, Christi Berlane* as Panacea, Rachel Mack and Jessica Pachuta as The Geminae, Jenell Anne Manzi as Vibrata, and Meredith Lubin as Gymnasia. As I mentioned earlier, the names of the play’s characters aptly described their nature.

The orchestra consisted of Dr. Betsy Buzzelli-Clarke* who served as the production’s Musical Director and Pianist, Laura Housley and Patrick Mertz who performed on Trumpet, Chad Diehl who performed on Trombone, John Hebble who performed on Bass, Larry Gordon and Marta Oberlin* who performed on the Woodwinds, and Chris Powers who performed on Drums. The Orchestra was conducted by Dr. Otis C. French.

The East Stroudsburg University (ESU)* Department of Theatre production of “A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to The Forum” by Burt Shevelove, Larry Gelbart, Stephen Sondheim which is based upon the Ancient Roman comedies written Plautus was Directed by Margaret Joyce Ball* and Stage Managed by Amanda Kalinowski. The Production’s Costume and Set Designer was Yoshinori Tanokura while the Lighting Designer was David Dougherty.

This production of “A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to The Forum” will continue its run at The East Stroudsburg University (ESU)* in East Stroudsburg, PA at The University’s Fine and Performing Arts Center in it’s Smith-McFarland Theatre until April 19th and is recommended for those who would really like to have some fun. Please contact The East Stroudsburg University (ESU)* Theatre Department at 570-422-3483 for more information and to reserve your ticket.

(*) denotes members of The Forwardian Arts Society in good standing and are considered Our Good Friends.

Theatrical Review: A Life in the Theatre

A LIFE IN THE THEATRE
Written by: David Mamet
Directed by: Chris Centrella*
Theatrical Review by: Paul Adam Smeltz

The Shawnee Playhouse* in Shawnee on the Delaware, PA presented The Worthington Players* production of “A Life in the Theatre” by David Mamet. The play is about an older, experienced actor taking a young, enthusiastic actor under his wings. However, as with many mentoring relationships, the growth of the one being taught begins to diminish the need to be taught and thereby eventually displaces whose desire to help is transformed into a power play by his pompous sense of self importance which is merely a recognition he is not all he pretends to be.

This production of David Mamet’s “A Life in the Theatre” is the epitome example of what The Shawnee Playhouse* has to offer those in the community who love great theatre. To say this production was well directed and acted would be a gross understatement. This is especially true when one considers another actor had to discontinue his work in the production due to health reasons and needed to be replaced just 10 days prior to opening night.

The play is presented in s series of vignettes with some lasting a few minute while other only consist of uttering a line or two. Just as each moment lived defines the dynamics of any relationship, each vignette serves to enhance not only our understanding the dynamics of the characters’ development, but increases the awareness of how we relate to ourselves and each other. This is often the goal of the theatrical arts (as well as other art forms) and this goal is reached in this exceedingly well done production.

There are many aspects of this play in which an audience member can relate to the occurrences in their life. There is one that holds a special poignancy for me. It is the aspect of the mentoring relationship I mentioned earlier in this review. There were many times throughout my life I soon dismissed those I earlier looked up to as I began to see their valued insights as pompous and out of touch ramblings. I know see my words being dismissed by those who once hung on each one for the very same reason. It saddens my heart. And, I often wonder how many hearts I have saddened; and still do.

Directing oneself in a play is always a challenging endeavor. The person doing so has to be careful not to be the center of the theatrical attention and yet be so when the play calls for it. It is also difficult to focus on the other actors performances while maintaining a quality of your own. The role of Robert was portrayed by the production’s director Chris Centrella* who proved his ability to more than adept in his portrayal of the character he embodied and his ability to serve as the productions’ “Audience of One” which is one of the fundamental functions of a director. The role of John was equally well done by Matt Christie* whose ability to make the transition from a wide eyed fan thrilled to be even noticed by the more experienced actor to becoming someone wary of the seemingly frivolous nature of the man is very impressive in its believability. A great deal of praise is deserved by both actors who brought life and a great deal of depth to their characters.

The Worthington Players* production of “A Life in the Theatre” by David Mamet was Directed by Chris Centrella* and Stage Managed by Robin A. Kessler who also served as the Light Board Operator. The Sound Operator was Leah Rosengarten while the productions Property Mistress was Christina McManus. The Executive Director of The Shawnee Playhouse* is Midge McClosky* while the producers are Ginny and Charlie Kirkwood. Group Sales of their productions are handled by Mary Horn* (who also served as a member of the Box Office Staff) while The Shawnee Playhouse publicity is handled by Amy Cramer*. The Box office staff includes Becky Haskell. Barbara Ross, and Lillian Gonzalez*.

This production of “A Life in the Theatre” by David Mamet will continue its run at The Shawnee Playhouse* in Shawnee on the Delaware, PA until March 22nd and is wholeheartedly recommended for those who enjoy great theatre. The next Shawnee Playhouse* in Shawnee on the Delaware, PA presentations will be “A Walk In The Woods” presented March 27th through April 5th “The Purgatory Diaries” on Saturday April 18th, “Move Over Mrs. Markham April 25th - May 3rd, and “Snapshots” May 15th - 24th. Those who enjoy the Passionate Art Lover level of membership in The Forwardian Arts Society are offered a $2.00 discount off the admission fee of The Shawnee Playhouse* Productions (excluding Children Theatrical Productions and those presented by non Shawnee Production Companies). Please contact The Shawnee Playhouse* at 570-421-5093 or Explore their website for more information and to reserve your ticket.

Photograph provided by The Shawnee Playhouse depicting Chris Centrella* and Matt Christie*.

(*) denotes members of The Forwardian Arts Society in good standing and are considered Our Good Friends.

Theatrical Review: Daddy’s Little Girl

DADDY’S LITTLE GIRL
Author, Composer, Lyricist: Jeff Lewis
Directed by: Jeremy William Hilgert*
Theatrical Review by: Paul Adam Smeltz

The Shawnee Playhouse* in Shawnee on the Delaware, PA presented an original musical production presented exclusively at the theatre entitled, “Daddy’s Little Girl” by Jeff Lewis. The play is about an overprotective father who encounters a series of situations while trying to keep his daughter “Daddy’s Little Girl.” These situations include entanglements with a self indulgent educational system and his own desire to live in a past that is better left in the past.

The play seemed to be an enjoyable experience to most of the audience who attended the performance. And, the production is certainly enjoyable to those who are fans of The Disney Channels’ programs like “Hannah Montana” and The Suite Life of Zack and Cody.” But, for those of us who aren’t prone to watching “Seventh Heaven” marathons all day, the lack of substance in the relationships portrayed in this quaint musical fell as flat as the one dimensional caricatures who inhabited the show. Still, this reviewer does concede the effect the author is trying to achieve is the creation of a piece those who do like the television programs I mentioned will like this play as well. And, in this, the production works.

What doesn’t quite work is the script itself. It had the feel of being written. This may sound like an odd observation until one realizes people in real life don’t speak in properly formed sentences in their everyday conversations whether they be with their friends, teachers, or parents. This may have led to the persistent pauses between lines and cues being late throughout the production.

Many productions who have the opportunity of working alongside the author of the work during rehearsal also have an advantage of being able to enhance the production by changing the script as it’s being read out loud by the actors to reflect a more flowing dialogue. This reviewer was not privy to the occurrences which took place during rehearsal and it is not this reviewer’s intent on second guessing the director. But, it seemed this opportunity to work with the author in the manner described would have made the play more real and therefore allow the themes the author wish to share become more believable in the reflection of the realities of life.

The cast consisted of Jon Buxton who portrayed Nathan Larson the overprotective father who yearns for the old days when his daughter was a lot less independent, Lisa Grando as Rosemary Larson who is Nathan’s ex wife whose career woman status sometimes takes away from her ex husband’s archaic perception of her role as a mother, Ariel Hudak as their daughter Jennifer Larson who yearns to be treated like an adult while remaining dependent on the privileges being a teenager living on her parents’ income can afford her, Brandon Cabrera as Jennifer’s brother Ted Larson who perspectives on the life of his family are as objective as they can be while being a member of that family, Chrystyna Zenovia as the self indulgent Math teacher whose only goal in teaching is to survive it until the summer months arrive, Michelle Kane as Principal Gibs whose speech impediments mirrors the impediments she has in running a school meant to educate those in its charge, Michael Welten as Jennifer’s somewhat dimwitted boyfriend who occasionally demonstrates his intelligence until his desire for food overrides this trait, and Jackie Lewis as Jennifer’s tattooed friend Becka who offers her own perspective on her girlfriend’s life. The cast is rounded out with a group of teens who mostly serve as the productions chorus. They are Luke Baboolal Lea Buxton, Emily Heller, Philip Benefield, Tara Turnbull, Leah Rosengarten who also served as a member of the production‘s crew, Marshall Haskell who also performed in the orchestra as its percussionist, Jasmine Thomas who also performed in the orchestra as its flutist, Michael Battipaglia who also performed in the orchestra as its trumpeter, and Rachel Miller who also performed in the orchestra as its Clarinetist and Saxophonist. The Orchestra was conducted by the Musical Director who also performed on keyboard while arrangements of the pieces were made by Adam Birnbaum.

The Shawnee Playhouse* production of “Daddy’s Little Girl” by Jeff Lewis was Directed by Jeremy William Hilgert* who also designed the production’s set and Stage Managed by Robin Kessler* who also served the production as Lighting Designer. The Master Carpenter was Bob Walz* and the production’s crew included Rachel Plank and Autumn Reeves The Executive Director of The Shawnee Playhouse* is Midge McClosky* while the producers are Ginny and Charlie Kirkwood. Group Sales of their productions are handled by Mary Horn* (who also served as a member of the Box Office Staff) while The Shawnee Playhouse publicity is handled by Amy Cramer*. The Box office staff includes Becky Haskell and Lillian Gonzalez*.

This production of “Daddy’s Little Girl” by Jeff Lewis will continue its run at The Shawnee Playhouse* in Shawnee on the Delaware, PA until March 1st. The next Shawnee Playhouse* in Shawnee on the Delaware, PA presentations will be “A Life in The Theatre” presented March 13th - 22nd, and “A Walk In The Woods” presented March 27th through April 5th. Those who enjoy the Passionate Art Lover level of membership in The Forwardian Arts Society are offered a $2.00 discount off the admission fee of The Shawnee Playhouse* Productions (excluding Children Theatrical Productions and those presented by non Shawnee Production Companies). Please contact The Shawnee Playhouse* at 570-421-5093 for more information and to reserve your ticket.

No Photographs were taken during the performance.

(*) denotes members of The Forwardian Arts Society in good standing and are considered Our Good Friends.

Gallagher Smashes The Sherman

The Sherman Theatre* in Stroudsburg, PA presented The Gallagher Full Sledge-O-Matic Show on Friday February 6th the hilarious social commentary Gallagher has been known for throughout his long and illustrious career. However, he is even better known for his culinary exorcisms performed with his handy dandy Sledge-O-Matic. The huge crowd of fans in the specially designated slash zone delighted as a variety of foods ranging from Sour Kraut and Duck Sauce to the ever popular Water Mellon sprayed upon them after making contact with the mighty force of Gallagher’s Sledge-O-Matic Hammer.

As mentioned before, the crowd was huge and a great number of friends were there. Again, I find myself at a loss in my attempts in mentioning them without the fear of neglecting to name then all. So, once again, I’ll take the easy way out and just say to those of you who attended the event it was great seeing there. Please feel free to comment on this article and make yourself known by sharing your’ re reflections and experiences relating to the evening.

The next events taking place at The Sherman Theatre will include The Natural Breakdown* Concert with special guests Big Boss Sausage and The Big Dirty on Saturday February 7th at 8pm, The Spinners at 8pm on Friday February 13th, a Valentine’s Day Concert and Dance at 8pm on February 14th, another night of horrors in The Sherman Theatre* Severed Sinema Series on Friday February 20th beginning at 7pm a Zombie Fest double feature presenting the films “Let Sleeping Corpses Lie” and the original “Night of the Living Dead,” The Bound by Blood* Concert on Saturday February 21st at 6pm with special guests Binary Code, Aphotic Discord, She Chased The Sky, Arencebia, Ruina, The Only Solace*, and Anathemat as part of their Independent Rock Series, and Rock N' Art Featuring Pink Floyd's The Wall on Saturday February 28th at 8pm with a meet and greet with local artists Bill Kelley* and Chris Francz* followed by a screening of the film, “Pink Floyd's The Wall.”

Please Explore The Sherman Theatre* Website for more information. You’ll find numerous photographs at The Forwardian Arts Society Gallagher Smashes The Sherman Gallery at myspace.com/forwardian_arts.

(*) denotes members of The Forwardian Arts Society in good standing and are considered Our Good Friends.

Theatrical Review: The Stage II* Student Directed One Act Plays

THE STAGE II* STUDENT DIERECTED ONE ACT PLAYS
Written by: Sam Shepard, David Ives, and Raven Knight
Directed by: David Ausem*, Erica Moshette*, and Amanda Kalinowski*
Theatrical Review by: Paul Adam Smeltz

The East Stroudsburg University (ESU)* Department of Theatre presented of the Stage II* (the student theatrical club) production of their Student Directed One Act Plays. This production was established long ago to not only demonstrate what the students learned during their years studying the art of theatre, but to expand upon the knowledge they obtained by exploring the directorial aspects of the art. The ESU* Student Directed One Act Plays have opened the door of opportunity for many students who later became inspiring directors in the theatrical community. They also serve as a treat to the audience for it gives them a glimpse of what is in store for the future of theatre in the coming years.

The first of the three plays to be presented was a Sam Shepard piece entitled, “Fool For Love” as directed by David Ausem*. The work is more than a bit confusing at first as demonstrated in the May character’s (as portrayed by Christie Berlane* and also served in the Production’s Carpentry department) conflicting desire to cling to the Eddie Character (as portrayed by Michael Demyan IV* (who also served in the Production’s Carpentry Department) while telling him to leave her alone. Yet, it is this confusion that serves to draw the audience into the work as they become more engaged wondering what the play is about.

As the play evolves, the embittered intoxicated utterances of an Old Man’s spirit (as portrayed by Alex Wirth) brings some revelation to what is transpiring on stage. The entrance of May’s perspective beau Martin (as portrayed by Ryan Drozd) inspired more explorations on what the play and its characters are about leading the audience on journey from being disturbed by the perversity of Eddie and May’s relationship to understanding the overwhelming depth of it.

The blocking (for the uninitiated: “Blocking” is a theatrical term used to describe the process determining the placement and movements of the actors) was straight forward and simple. This allowed the work to speak for itself. If the blocking was more complicated, it would only serve as a distraction to the piece. If too simple, it would leave it lacking in many respects. The Director David Ausem presented a well balance production which made Sam Shepard’s “Fool For Love” a compelling theatrical experience. Julie Wisniewski* served the production as it’s Stage Manager.

The second of the three One Act plays was a David Ives piece entitled, “Sure Thing” as directed by Erica Moshette*. In a vast departure from the previous presentation of Sam Shepard’s “Fool For Love,“ “Sure Thing” is a very simple and straight forward comedy. The play takes place in a coffeehouse in which two characters Bill (as portrayed by Brian Foley*) and Betty (as portrayed by Jessica Pachutta who also served in the Production‘s Publicity department) meet. The evolution of their meeting consisted of a series of faux pas which are remedied by an increasing hilarious series of do overs.

The pacing of the play was well timed by the very talented actors who made the situation very believable in spite of it’s gross departure from reality. Of course, some of the enjoyment of the piece derived from, as Erica Moshette* stated in the Director’s Notes, “…the idea of being able to start over a conversation after it’s already been started would be wonderful.” This reviewer is certain many (if not all) of the audience members agreed.

While much can be said about the skills of the actors which made the play enjoyable. It is the pacing of the piece which determines whether it can be believable enough to be funny. It takes the insight of a director to establish and maintain the pacing of any production. Ms. Moshette* directorial debut has shown she is more than capable of providing this insight to great effect. Emily Harris served the production as it’s Stage Manager and as a member of the Production’s Carpentry Department.

The last of the three plays was an experimental piece written by Raven Knight entitled, “Memories of The Moon” as directed by Amanda Kalinowski*. As with most experimental theatre, the purpose work seems not to be consciously understood during its presentation, but to be simply experienced and understood later. This understanding may come immediately after the play concludes or years afterwards. The work subscribing to this theatrical form challenges the audiences it encounters to discover answers to the many questions it poses.

Raven Knight’s “Memories of The Moon” is no exception to this theatrical form. It entices the audience by it’s beauty and magic soon to leave them to discover the same elements within themselves. The cast consist of characters who go beyond the obviously normal function of most plays. Instead, their usage is more like individual colors of a painting whose sum are greater than their parts. The cast combining their colors included Andrew Confair as Celeste, Luke Swierczek as Sylvanus (who also served in the Production’s Carpentry Department), Michelle Tuite as Kiwidinok, Kelly Perry as Dierdre, Angelo Revilla III* as Boy/Shadow, and Mervant Rivera as the Stage Hand.

The experimental elements of “Memories of the Moon” proved to be the most challenging of the three productions. It not only challenged the audience, but it also stretched the talents of the cast as well. Yet, it takes a very focused director who can remain open to a scattered reality to bring such a piece to fruition. The Director Amanda Kalinowski* demonstrated her considerable ability to sow the seeds and harvest the bountiful crop of ideas the play offers it audience in a manner the author would appreciate. Meg Dowling served the production as it’s Stage Manager.

The East Stroudsburg University (ESU)* Department of Theatre presentation of the Stage II* (the student theatrical club) production of their Student Directed One Act Plays included Sam Shepard’s “Fool For Love” as Directed by David Ausem* (who also served as the Production’s Assistant Set Designer as well as in the Carpentry, Sound Design, Costumes, and Property Departments), David Ives “Sure Thing” as Directed by Erica Moshette* (who also served in the Production’s Sound Design, Costumes, and Property Departments), and Raven Knight’s “Memories of the Moon” as Directed by Amanda Kalinowski* (who also served in the Production’s Sound Design, Costumes, and Property Departments). Rachel Mack* served as The Production Manager, Light Board Operator, and as a member of the Production’s Carpentry Department. Scott Ross served the Production as its Set and Lighting Designer along with being a member of the Production’s Carpentry Department with Robert McIntyre as Assistant Lighting Director along with being a member of the Production’s Carpentry Department. The Production’s Master Scene Painter was Anthony Garbarino* with AJ Cho* serving in the Sound Design, Costumes, and Property Departments. Shamus Halloran* served in the Box Office while Jenell Manzi* served as the House Manager.

This production of the Stage II* Student Directed One Act Plays will continue its run at The East Stroudsburg University (ESU)* in East Stroudsburg, PA at The University’s Fine and Performing Arts Center in it’s Dale Snow Theatre until February 8th and is recommended for those who would like to catch a glimpse of the future of theatre while enjoying a wonderful evening at the theatre. The next East Stroudsburg University (ESU)* in East Stroudsburg, PA production “A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum” will be presented April 14th - 19th. Please contact The East Stroudsburg University (ESU)* Theatre Department at 570-422-3483 for more information and to reserve your ticket.

No Photographs were allowed to be taken during the production.

(*) denotes members of The Forwardian Arts Society in good standing and are considered Our Good Friends.

Theatrical Review: ‘Night, Mother

‘NIGHT MOTHER
Written by: Marsha Norman
Directed by: Rob Ramos*
Theatrical Review by: Paul Adam Smeltz

The Shawnee Playhouse* in Shawnee on the Delaware, PA presented The Worthington Players* production of “ ‘Night, Mother” by Marsha Norman. The play is about a daughter revealing to her mother her determined desire to end her life. This revelation leads to the mother’s attempts to persuade her daughter to change her course while her daughter continues making plans for her self extermination.

The play gives the audience no reason for the suicide rather it focuses on the dynamics of a mother/daughter relationship that goes beyond the daughter’s announcement and her mother’s reactions to it. This allows the audience to utilize the work to examine their own relationships and how they effect and are effected by them. As in all good theatre, the characters we experience on stage are merely extensions of who we are challenging us to explore who we are and how we conduct our lives.

However, this production was not without its flaws. Although the delivery of the dialogue felt as real as any mother/daughter conversation would, there were moments of hesitations prior to the uttering of some line. There was also something which bothered this reviewer which makes this a challenging review to write.

In my humble opinion, a reviewer’s purpose is to give his/her honest assessments on what the play is really about in regards to its themes and larger social meanings (if present) as well as sharing what he/she observes during the work‘s presentation. Reviews (at least my reviews) are written to serve in helping productions (as well as those participating in them such as the actors) by either reaffirming what they’re doing or to re examine their approach to theatre and thus making better decisions aiding them in their quest to enhance their present and/or future theatrical endeavors. However, it is always good to remember a reviewer’s opinion is only one opinion and should only be regarded as valid when it is. Otherwise, it should be disregarded.

With all that said, here is what this reviewer found bothersome throughout this production “ ’Night, Mother.” The Thelma Cates (the mother of the piece as portrayed by Mary Morales) Character kept a basket full of her crochet work close to her throughout the play. There were more than many times she kept looking into her basket while delivering her lines. It is this reviewer’s opinion (an it could be wrong) Ms. Morales was reading her script during most of her performance. This reviewer has personally appeared in a number of productions in which many actors have brought their script on stage with them for numerous reasons, but that doesn’t make it ok. It’s a distraction to the audience and it takes away from their enjoyment of the work. The inflection and thoughtfulness ms Morales gave to the delivery of the lines were very well done, but being on book during an active production nullified all that.

Ms. Adia Williams portrayal of the daughter Jessie Cates was well done, but the power of her performance was diminished. The suspension of disbelief is important in any production including this one and it was seriously compromised when the audience was reminded it was only a play by the apparent presence of a script in the basket. It seemed to this reviewer Ms. Williams spent the entire play making the best of a bad situation and it’s hope she well appear in future productions in which her talents can be properly assessed.

The Worthington Players* production of “ ‘Night, Mother” by Marsha Norman was Directed by Rob Ramos* as assisted by Chris Webster*. The production was Stage Managed by Ryan Irvin Moore while Tom Nordin served as Production Assistant. The Lighting and Sound Designer was Eric Dwyer*. The Executive Director of The Shawnee Playhouse* is Midge McClosky* while the producers are Ginny and Charlie Kirkwood. Group Sales of their productions are handled by Mary Horn* (who also served as a member of the Box Office Staff) while The Shawnee Playhouse publicity is handled by Amy Cramer*. The Box office staff includes Becky Haskell and Lillian Gonzalez*.

This production of “ ‘Night, Mother” by Marsha Norman will continue its run at The Shawnee Playhouse* in Shawnee on the Delaware, PA until February 8th. The next Shawnee Playhouse* in Shawnee on the Delaware, PA presentations will be their annual St. Valentine’s production of “Love Letters” presented February 13th - 15th, “Daddy’s Little Girl” presented February 20th through March 1st, “A Life in The Theatre” presented March 13th - 22nd, and “A Walk In The Woods” presented March 27th through April 5th. Those who enjoy the Passionate Art Lover level of membership in The Forwardian Arts Society are offered a $2.00 discount off the admission fee of The Shawnee Playhouse* Productions (excluding Children Theatrical Productions and those presented by non Shawnee Production Companies). Please contact The Shawnee Playhouse* at 570-421-5093 for more information and to reserve your ticket.

You’ll find a Photograph provided by The Shawnee Playhouse currently posted on The Forwardian Arts Society profile at myspace.com/forwardian_arts..

(*) denotes members of The Forwardian Arts Society in good standing and are considered Our Good Friends.

Theatrical Review: Tiny Tim’s Christmas Carol

TINY TIM’S CHRISTMAS CAROL
Book by: Michael Harron* (Lyrics) and Rick Cummings (Music)
Based upon the novel “A Christmas carol” by Charles Dickens
Directed by: Michael Harron*
Theatrical Review by: Paul Adam Smeltz

The Sherman Theatre* in Stroudsburg, PA presented The Pennsylvania Reparatory Company’s* annual seasonal production of “Tiny Tim’s Christmas Carol” by Michael Harron* and Rick Cummings which is based upon the novel “A Christmas carol” by Charles Dickens. However, it’s important to note this work is (as it’s title implies) not Charles Dickens’ Christmas Carol but Tiny Tim’s as seen from his perspective. Keeping this in mind allows an audience member to enjoy the play more thoroughly without wondering if anything occurring onstage is what the famous author intended.

The play draw its similarities to the novel by being about an old and embittered miser named Ebenezer Scrooge (as portrayed by Michael Harron*) who is visited by a number of spirits who show him the errors of his ways thus transforming him into a joyous benefactor. Charles Dickens said the novel was a parable about the business community and served as a warning it had best changed it’s greed filled ways or it’ll be destined to collapse with few shedding a tear for its departure. This may have been a perspective worthwhile pursuing in these economic times but this would no longer be Tiny Tim’s Christmas Carol and its charm would be diminished.

The play itself proves to be an enjoyable holiday experience which is eagerly awaited by its audience every year. The acting is very well done as is the quality of the musical numbers. The quality of the acting in this production can be seen through the production necessity of multiple casting of a number of its roles.

In many productions when actors are called upon to perform more than one characters, the audience often see a performance which is merely a variation of one character. This was far from being true in this production. The distinction the actors presented between each character they portrayed was such, this reviewer was constantly checking to program to see if the actor was the same person as seen before.

This well acted production consists of Conor Naughton (who portrayed Tiny Tim), Tim Naughton (who portrayed Bob Cratchit), Charles Rosa (who portrayed Mr. Clay and Father Scrooge), Maureen Harms (who portrayed Mrs. Blythe), Ryan Moore (who portrayed Fred and Young Scrooge), Hugh Halsey (who portrayed John Edmond, Male Guest, and the Ghost of Christmas Future), Sydney Southland (who portrayed a Constable and Female Guest # 1), Sean Gaughan (who portrayed a Constable and Teen Scrooge), Amy Cramer* (who portrayed Mrs. Cratchit), Katherine Dodel (who portrayed Martha Cratchit and Belle), Ahna Kollar (who portrayed Belinda Cratchit), Andrew McCarthy (who portrayed Peter Cratchit and Boy on the Street), Byrdie Jacques (who portrayed Mrs. Dilber and served as costumer and in props), Marty Courtney* (who portrayed Marley‘s Ghost and Mr. Fezziwig), Beth Dollard* (who portrayed Ghost of Christmas Past), Madison Joyce (who portrayed Child Fan), Madison Cerniglia (who portrayed Boy Scrooge), Jullian Andres (who portrayed Teen Fan), Jan Brighton (who portrayed Mrs. Fezziwig and Mrs. Haversham), Matt Christie* (who portrayed Young Jacob Marley and Joe the Pawnshop Keeper), Lauren Santarelli* (who portrayed Adult Fan, Gloria), Samantha Muniz (who portrayed Fred‘s Daughter), Liam Naughton (who portrayed Fred‘s Son), Robb Taylor (who portrayed Ghost of Christmas Present whose elves were played by Caileen Dollard, Delaney Dollard, Emily Carmella, and Maria Johnson), Lynda Bolan (who portrayed Female Guest # 2), and Villagers who were portrayed by Mary Bolan, Sophia Lovito, Alyssa Palmigiano, Jessica Oney, Mackenzie Maula, Sophia Pipalo, Sofia Schembari, Kyrsten Bowman, Amanda Franzo, Gabi Wilder, Alyson Wilder, and James Durham.

“Tiny Tim’s Christmas Carol” by Michael Harron* and Rick Cummings and based upon the novel “A Christmas carol” by Charles Dickens was Directed by Michael Harron* and Stage managed by Victoria Kollar as assited by Joanne Barbetta. The Musical Director was Susan Wilkins with the Musical Staging provided by Kelly Foley*. Curt Burton was Lighting Designer with Katie Burton and Julius Kollar on the Lightboard while the sound was provided by Glen Kern*. Al Rauch served in the prop department while Mark Dodel, Mike Brightman, Kevin Bolan, Marcy Wilder*, Carman Muniz, June Jegilinski, Ashley Wilder, Julia Leanard, Deb Cerniglia, Karen Schember, and Tracy Martin served in the Stage Crew.

The Pennsylvania Reparatory Company’s* annual seasonal production of “Tiny Tim’s Christmas Carol” as performed at The Sherman Theatre* in Stroudsburg, PA proved to be a wonderful addition to the holidays filled with some very good acting and musical numbers. The only unfortunate aspect of this production is it‘s short run for the general public which ends Saturday December 13th. However, a number of students in the area school districts did have the opportunity to experience it as the show is part of The Pennsylvania Reparatory Company’s* “Plays in the Curriculum Series” which was performed for those studying the works of Dickens in their perspective schools. More information on The Pennsylvania Reparatory Company* programs and futures productions by visiting their website at myspace.com/pennsylvaniarepcompany Please contact The Sherman Theatre* at 570-420-2808 or visit their website for more information on their future shows for the holiday season.

(*) denotes members of The Forwardian Arts Society in good standing and are considered Our Good Friends.

Note: No Photographs were taken during the performance of this production.

Theatrical Review: “Christmas at the Stage Door Canteen”

CHRISTMAS AT THE STAGE DOOR CANTEEN
Written and Directed by: Rod Foote
Theatrical Review by: Paul Adam Smeltz

The Shawnee Playhouse* in Shawnee on the Delaware, PA presented their Holiday production of “Christmas at the Stage Door Canteen” which was written and directed by Rod Foote who also Designed the show. The Show is a musical review featuring a selection of holiday related songs and carols along with swingier and other tunes reminiscent of the WWII era. A very talented cast weaved each song together with a thread of narratives and tied them together with some entertaining dance numbers which delighted the audience.

The Cast consisted of Mallorie Fletcher, Julie Abner, Rachel Hettinger*, Patrick McLaughlin, Kyle Donahue, and Mike Dale along with some younger performers who appeared in tow separate sets of cast; a green and a red one. The Green cast consists of Kailey and Paige Jackett along with Aubrey Haskell and Kristopher Sanchez. The Red cast (who performed the afternoon I was there) consists of Danielle Catrillo, Bryce Cramer, Jadyn Lynah, and Sarah Principe. The entire cast made the show an enjoyable experience in spite of the perception their performance lacked a certain level of consistent energy which may soon be remedied as the production continues its run.

The Shawnee Playhouse* Holiday production of “Christmas at the Stage Door Canteen” was Written, Directed, Designed by Rod Foote and Stage Managed by Stephanie Lucy Reyes*. The production’s Music Director was Keith laBar, Billye Kubiak was the Choreographer, and Alex M. Bender served as Technical Director with Annie Della Fera as the Technical Intern. Jane Sumner was the Costumer, William J. Ulichney was the Master Carpenter, and Anthony Garbarino* was the Scenic Painter. The Executive Director of The Shawnee Playhouse* is Midge McClosky* while the producers are Ginny and Charlie Kirkwood. Group Sales of their productions are handled by Mary Horn* while The Shawnee Playhouse publicity is handled by Amy Cramer*. The Box office staff includes Kasey Mesko, Lillian Ramirez Gonzalez*, Becky Haskell, and Barbara Ross.

This production of “Christmas at the Stage Door Canteen” by Rod Foote will continue its run at The Shawnee Playhouse* in Shawnee on the Delaware, PA until December 21st and is recommended for those who would enjoy some entertaining holiday fare. The next Shawnee Playhouse* presentations will be The Children’s theatre production of “A Winnie the Pooh Christmas Carol” to be performed November 29th until December 20th, The Northeast Ballet Ensemble production of “The Nutcracker” on December 7th, 14th, and 21st, The Messiah Community Sing In on Monday December 22nd at 8pm, “Kids Kabaret” to be performed December 27th and 28th, and “Mysterrio’s Winter Magic Show” to be performed December 28th and 29th. Please contact The Shawnee Playhouse* at 570-421-5093 or visit their website for more information and to reserve your ticket.

(*) denotes members of The Forwardian Arts Society in good standing and are considered Our Good Friends.