FIRST STAGE VOICES

BIG THINKS!

noreply@blogger.com (Erica Davis) — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 21:37:00 +0000

by Jillian Toyad
When SEUSSICAL ran at the beginning of the season,
First Stage collected BIG THINKS for this reason;
To know what our audience dreams, wishes and aspires-
Change the world? Be great? – First Stage inquires!

Here are some favorites we pulled from the lot,
We thank all of you for every single THINK we got;
We love the support! By gosh, you’re amazing!
Thanks for giving us reasons to never stop entertaining.

My BIG THINK is…

- to make a difference in my society

- to put solar panels in the deserts of Phoenix

- to pick up garbage in lakes

- to create a car that runs on air and cleans the air it goes through

- to help people who do not have a home

- to help my children grow healthy and strong (Mom)

- World peace!

- people to tell people “I Love You” every minute

- for everyone to get along because the world would be better

- programs for young adults that go beyond the age of Big Brothers + Sisters program to mentor through High School upper-grades and into college

- for experienced young performers to go out to the elderly population and inter-generational places like St. Anne’s to showcase their life and stage skills

- for First Stage to go to every school and teach kids about performing arts

- for First Stage to partner with urban, true inner-city schools like MPT Townsend who have no funds or parents to pay for field trips

- for First Stage to have kids write a play about a new way to educate kids and make us a smarter city

- for First Stage to tour schools and entertain

- to get my school a Six Flags

- to build a secret lab in my room only for me and my stuffed animals

- to be able to walk on the street and have people know who I am

- to become a world equestrian Olympian champion, , start a dog show business and jump 3ft on Wally (a horse) by Spring 2012

- to be in a First Stage play

- to fly

- to be a MLB baseball player

- to play in the NBA

- to go to school all the time

Do you have a BIG THINK that you would like add? Have you made your BIG THINK happen? Share with us by commenting on the post! We’d love to hear more BIG THINKS from you!

"Oh the thinks you can think! Think and wonder and dream far and wide as you dare!
When your thinks have run dry, in the blink of an eye, there's another think there!"

Catching up with Meg Murry, Charles Wallace and the talented young actors playing them onstage

noreply@blogger.com (Erica Davis) — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 21:53:00 +0000

James Mullooly and John Fernandez will play Charles Wallace

During a recent interview with 88nine’s Lisa Goldman, set to air later this month, cast members of First Stage’s upcoming play A WRINKLE IN TIME sat down to dish on what it takes to portray the complex characters of this timeless classic.

James Mullooly, a fourth-grader at Wauwatosa Montessori, plays Charles Wallace in the Space Cast. He describes Charles Wallace as a genius and enjoys playing a guy who can read minds. How does he channel Charles? “I pretty much just imagine how someone like Leonardo da Vinci would act and then do that.” When not on stage you can find James hanging out with his older siblings (he’s the youngest of five!), playing soccer, golfing or drawing. In the Time Cast, Charles Wallace will be played by fifth-grader John Fernandez. John loves acting because it’s a chance to “step out of your own shoes and do fun stuff you wouldn’t normally get to, like get hypnotized!” He also likes the challenge of learning lines and being a part of a cast. James and John have been onstage many times, but a First Stage production is a first for both of these young performers.

Katherine Pollnow and Erin Stapleton
talk about character Meg Murry.

Look around Katherine Pollnow’s room and you’re sure to find a well-worn, dog-eared copy of A Wrinkle in Time. It has been one of Kat’s favorite books since she was little. Last seen as Wanda in First Stage’s THE HUNDRED DRESSES, Kat is up for the challenge of playing Meg Murry in the Time Cast. “I really like what a strong character Meg is. There is so much going on in her life (what with her father missing, worrying about her little brother, and even just struggling in school) and yet she still is strong throughout it all. I also love how much she grows throughout the book and play. Being able to portray her is a challenge and blessing in so many ways.”

Last seen as Isabelle in First Stage’s musical U:BUG:ME! Erin Stapleton brings Meg to life onstage in the Space Cast. She’s thrilled about portraying this character and feels that everyone will learn something from her heart. Erin said, “Meg has a tough persona but she’s really vulnerable to her emotions… yet doesn’t want anyone to see it.” Erin is a junior at Wauwatosa West and is passionate about the arts including dance, music, watercolor painting and acting.

A WRINKLE IN TIME runs January 27 – February 19, 2012 at the Todd Wehr Theater, Marcus Center for the Performing Arts. For tickets and information, CLICK HERE.

Did you know this year marks the 50^th anniversary of the book A Wrinkle in Time? Find out more about the story, author Madeleine L’Engle and more at http://www.madeleinelengle.com/

Homecoming Event Brings Alumni from Afar for Celebration

noreply@blogger.com (Erica Davis) — Wed, 11 Jan 2012 16:55:00 +0000

First Stage’s mission of transforming lives through theater was apparent as each person stepped through the doors of the Milwaukee Youth Arts Center on December 30^th for the Alumni Homecoming Event. Individuals who were touched by First Stage in its first 25 years of existence eagerly responded to the invitation to come back, reunite and celebrate our milestone year and traveled far to do so. Alumni came from all over the country – from New York to California, Rhode Island to Texas.

From the moment guests started to arrive, the energy in the building was surreal. They were greeted with open arms and in true First Stage fashion all guests received an Alumni Homecoming t-shirt that was then signed by friends, old and new. Alumni were able to walk down memory lane in the “Hall of Memories,” a whole studio dedicated to memorabilia from the past 25 years - production and Theater Academy photos, props and costumes from former shows, and even scrapbooks Alumni themselves brought to share. Guests were treated to performances by Alumni and current students and Patrick Schmitz led a mix of both in the ever-popular, Organized Chaos!

Because being a part of First Stage is an experience unlike any other, First Stage Alumni share a very special bond. “What was particularly amazing was the overall interest in how First Stage has evolved and the wonderful new MYAC space. No matter if Alumni spent one summer or 10 years at First Stage, there was a genuine interest to reconnect and be a part of First Stage again – and hopefully for years to come!” said Luke Kowal.

Alumni are an extremely important part of our organization and we want them to feel that way. Artistic Director, Jeff Frank shared this sentiment in closing words:

“All of you are doing different things with your lives, but thank you for being a part of First Stage and for choosing to live your life in a way that will impact the world in a positive manner.

That is why we are all here. In a world of ever increasing darkness, we must guide one another toward the light — and I thank you all for the radiance you bring to us and to the rest of the world. We are forever in your debt. We can do no less that promise you all that we at First Stage will continue the work you so nobly began. We are committed to broadening our reach and deepening our impact – offering hope and inspiration for our young people and the potential for change in our community.”

At this event, Alumni shared their ideas for a new Alumni Association called Next Stage and told their own stories about the impact First Stage has made and continues to make in their lives. This Homecoming event is a springboard for Next Stage to create more opportunities for Alumni involvement and we are excited about what the future holds for these individuals who will always think of First Stage as “home.”

Elyse Edelman summed up the event as I’m sure many would:

“The alumni reunion was a special night for me. It was an opportunity to reminisce with generations of mentors, teachers, fellow actors, friends, and even a few students of mine. These people have been integral in my life, as many of them have literally watched me grow up. I was able to acknowledge and thank those who instilled in me a curiosity to comprehend what’s beyond my immediate world - who gave me the confidence to stand on my convictions and articulate my values - and who taught me the importance of compassion in a world where “bullying” exists on all sorts of levels. Thank you First Stage for an amazing night. Here’s to the next 25 years of touching lives through theater!”

If you are interested in being a member or volunteer of the First Stage Alumni Association, contact Nancy Clarkin at 414-267-2938 or nclarkin@firststage.org.

Alumni Spotlight: Jeremy Tardy

noreply@blogger.com (Erica Davis) — Wed, 28 Dec 2011 23:05:00 +0000

Can you tell us a little bit about yourself?
I am 21 years old, and a junior in college. I just finished a play called THE ENCHANTED by Jean Giradeaux and I will be working on a CABARET in January.

What was your first experience at First Stage like?

My first experience at First Stage was as an audience member, I saw GREEN EGGS AND HAM with my first grade class. This was the first play I had ever seen, and the first time I had seen actors in person. This experience exposed me to what I have resolved to for the rest of my life.

How did you first get involved?

I was about 12 years old when I finally got involved with First Stage. I had seen their plays for years, but it wasn't until I was 12 that I did my first play with them, The Magic Mrs. Piggle Wiggle.

What was your favorite thing about First Stage?

My favorite thing about First Stage was the strong sense of professionalism among the older actors. My experiences working with, and being taught by older actors, cultivated a sense of professionalism that has carried me quite far.

What do you miss most?

What I miss most is the incredible love and optimism that everyone at First Stage seemed to be filled with. The constant smiles and hugs.

Who was your biggest inspiration/mentor at First Stage?

I had many wonderful mentors at First Stage, but John Maclay was certainly the most influential. He provided constant support and knowledge, and exposed me to many things that have shaped the actor and the person I am today.

What were some of your favorite productions to be in?

Jeremy Tardy in Young Company's
OTHELLO, 2007/2008

My favorite productions were HOLES and THE WATSONS GO TO BIRMINGHAM -1963, my experiences in both were so surreal that I often think back on them.

How did First Stage help you get to where you are today?

First Stage provided me with training that I would not have gotten anywhere else in Milwaukee. This training, on and off stage, gave me enough confidence to pursue my goals and a career in theatre and film.

What were some of the big changes in yourself that you noticed after First Stage?

After First Stage, it became quite clear that First Stage is a unique organization in its teaching, and in the quality of its productions. It was also clear to me that First Stage was also a big part in helping me become and adult, as I continued to have their support after I left.

What would be the one word to sum up your First Stage experience?

My First Stage experience in one word: Empowering

What are your plans for the future?

In the future I plan on doing a lot of film. I would love to act for the rest of my life, but it has become clear to me that I need to be a filmmaker.

Do you have a message for First Stage?

I wish First Stage another successful 25 years!

Keep tabs on other First Stage Alumni on the First Stage Alumni Network facebook page! There's still time to join in the fun for the Alumni Homecoming event on Friday, December 30! Your registration can be taken at the door!

Don't forget to check back for a recap of the event!

Santa Baby: A First Stage Wish List

noreply@blogger.com (Erica Davis) — Wed, 14 Dec 2011 19:33:00 +0000

Dear Santa:

In celebration of our 25th Anniversary, First Stage is asking you to consider making gift from our 25-item Wish List! Won't you consider being an elf, reindeer or even Santa himself and give a gift this holiday season to help First Stage continue to transform lives through theater? To make a donation from the Wish List, choose any item listed below then, CLICK HERE to make your gift online. Remember to write the Wish List item in the NOTES SECTION of your order, or call Nancy in the Development office at (414) 267-2938 to make your gift by phone.

Can't decide on a gift? Simply make a donation in ANY AMOUNT to the First Stage Annual Campaign and your gift will go where it's needed most!

Happy Holidays from all of us at First Stage!

First Stage Elf (gifts range from $50-$200)

Healthy Snack for 100 Wednesday Theater Academy Students - $50
Deluxe Rhythm Band Sets for the Theater Academy - $130
12' Parachute for the Theater Academy - $50
2 wooden shoe stretcher Kitwomen's for the Costume Shop - $50
Portable Digital Voice Recorder for our Theater in Education Department - $50
Transportation for a Theater Academy student to/from First Stage for one month - $50
Flip Camera for our Theater in Education Department - $200

First Stage Reindeer (gifts range from $300 - $600)

New camera lens - $600
Books for a classroom participating in the Early Literacy Program - $250
Tuition for one 3rd grade student to attend First Stage Theater Academy's Spring Break Program - $250*
Sponsor a Bully Ban Workshop for a middle school classroom - $300*
First Aid Supplies for Summer Academy - $300
Sponsor a classroom in the Partnership Program - $450*
Bernina sewing machine for the Costume Shop - $500
Tuition for two 6th grade students to attend First Stage Theater Academy's Spring Break Program - $500*
Tuition for one high school student to participate in Young Company, First Stage's pre-professional theater training program - $600*

First Stage Santa (gifts start at $1,000)

Women's size 10 hanging dress form for the Costume Shop - $1,000
Sponsor a classroom to participate in the Early Literacy Program - $1,000*
New Risers for the First Steps Series at the Milwaukee Youth Arts Center - $16,000
Printers for the administrative office - $1,500
Tuition for one high school student to attend First Stage Theater Academy's two week overnight camp at Carthage College - $1,595*
Stitcher for 4 week build of a show - $1,760
Special Events Host/Hostess at the Todd Wehr Theater for a season - $3,500
Sponsor a 2012-13 Main Stage Production - $5,000 - $25,000

Making a gift of an item indicated with a star (*) goes directly towards First Stage's Community Partnership Program. This program made it possible for 5,000 students to have First Stage experiences last year. With a total program budget of over $900,000, over 90% of the Community Partnership Program is funded by grants and private contributions.

Thank you for considering giving a gift from our 25^th Anniversary Wish List.

Happy Holidays to our First Stage Family!

The Original Sci-fi/Fantasy Hero Returns to First Stage

noreply@blogger.com (Erica Davis) — Mon, 12 Dec 2011 19:53:00 +0000

Written by Jillian Toyad

Before Harry Potter and Percy Jackson, there was Meg Murry.

First Stage is excited for the return of Meg Murry since the 1999-2000 season production of A WRINKLE IN TIME. Long-time actor Mark Metcalf is the director of this imaginative play adapted by John Glore based on the popular children’s book by Madeleine L’Engle. A WRINKLE IN TIME, opening January 27, 2012, is the kick-off production for the second half of the 2011-2012 season.

A WRINKLE IN TIME tells the story of Meg Murry, a girl like no other! She is an outcast at school. Her father is missing. The town thinks her brother is some sort of freak. Meg Murry is angry at a world that makes no sense to her. But when a strange visitor arrives at her family’s home on a dark and stormy night, she embarks on a wild journey through space and time to rescue her father from the evil forces that hold him prisoner on another planet. This production is sure to propel your imagination on the journey of a lifetime.

Director Mark Metcalf is no stranger to First Stage. He previously appeared in First Stage productions of GOSSAMER, A CHRISTMAS STORY, MIDNIGHT CRY, HOLES, THE GIVER and others. Metcalf has appeared in numerous popular TV shows like Seinfeld and Buffy the Vampire Slayer, films like Animal House, and over a hundred plays over the course of 40 years. This seasoned actor’s first fully paid job was, in fact, on the Todd Wehr stage with the REP as Tony Kirby in the 1971 production of YOU CAN’T TAKE IT WITH YOU. We are thrilled to see what he has in store for us with this production!

We are pleased to introduce our talented cast of adult actors: Aaron Christensen as Father/Mrs. Which/Ensemble; Matt Daniels as Mrs. Whatsit/Man with Red Eyes/Ensemble; Erica Elam as Mother/Mrs. Who/Comazotz Woman/Ensemble; and Marcella Kearns as Foley Artist/Aunt Beast/Ensemble.

Young performers in the Space Cast are Erin Stapleton as Meg; James Mullooly as Charles Wallace; Nathan Kluge as Calvin; Spencer Tomich as Comazotz 1; Abby Hanna as Comazotz 2; Meguire Hennes as Comazotz 3; and Ella Frank as Comazotz 4. The Time cast is made up of young performers Katherine Pollnow as Meg; John Fernandez as Charles Wallace; Maxwell Mainwood as Calvin; Luke Czerwinski as Comazotz 1; Lizzie Borg as Comazotz 2; Emily Harris as Comazotz 3; and Meghan Schaefer as Comazotz 4.

Madeleine L’Engle, the author of A WRINKLE IN TIME, was inspired to write this children’s book after reading about Einstein’s theories of relativity and quantum mechanics, a concept that almost flaunts her frequent assertion that children’s literature is literature too difficult for adults to understand. Her vivid characters and imaginative storylines clearly glimpsed L’Engle’s passionate search for answers to questions that mattered most. She also believed that every child needed a hero like Meg Murry, her lead character. This book is a great read for the holidays! (Read more about author, Madeleine L’Engle in the NYTimes article)

Be sure to mark your calendars and ring in the new year with First Stage as A WRINKLE IN TIME comes to life on stage! The performance runs from January 27 through to February 19, 2012.

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Tickets for A WRINKLE IN TIME start at $13. Tickets may be purchased at www.firststage.org or through the Marcus Center box office, in person at 929 N. Water Street in downtown Milwaukee or by phone (414) 273-7206 or toll free at (888) 612-3500. The number for TDD (for deaf and hard of hearing patrons) is (414) 273-3080.

Alumni Homecoming

noreply@blogger.com (Erica Davis) — Thu, 08 Dec 2011 22:55:00 +0000

Hello Everyone!

The holiday season has arrived and with that comes many invitations to fabulous parties but there is one very special event happening this December that you don’t want to miss. It’s the very exciting upcoming alumni event December 30, 2011 at the Milwaukee Youth Arts Center.

I can't wait for the First Stage Alumni Homecoming: A Celebration of 25 years! It’s an evening dedicated to the magical place that is First Stage, like Christmas Part 2! It promises to be a night to showcase the Milwaukee Youth Arts Center as a wonderful place of discovery for the arts and more importantly, past friends and the First Stage family, the people who that make First Stage what it is! We'll have a look back through the years with an interactive time line of old pictures, posters and playbills (we encourage you to bring your own scrapbooks!) Each attendee will even get a new First Stage Alumni t-shirt. (I know I don't fit my old C-2 child's size XL - even if it was the 90's and everything was 3 sizes too large).

Luke Celebrates his 13th birthday with Rob Goodman
after A Thousand Cranes

Words can't describe how proud I am to be a part of this event. I've been a main stage performer in a number of shows from 1992-1997, attended the first Theater Academy, running through the office halls of the PAC (Marcus Center), served as an intern, and now am the chair of the alumni event as a member of the First Stage Board of Directors. Although I never became an actor, First Stage taught me how to stilt walk, read in iambic pentameter, and how to improv, but more importantly about myself. I learned that I'm not going to be good at everything, but that a positive "YES" attitude can take you a lot of places and no matter who you are there is always a place to fit in. Today, I may be a less than exciting banker, but I wouldn’t be a fraction of who I am without the influence of First Stage in my life.

Best Christmas Pageant Ever Cast Party, Red Pin Lanes circa 1992

I'm guessing many of you feel the same way. Please come join us for our event and revisit the place you helped bring to life through your creativity and enthusiasm. Happy Christmas Part 2!

Hope to see you on the December 30!

Luke Kowal
Alumni Homecoming Chair

For more information about the event or to RSVP, CLICK HERE.

For more fun photos and to connect with old friends from First Stage, check out the First Stage Alumni Network Facebook page,
CLICK HERE.

A Different Kind of Fairytale

noreply@blogger.com (Erica Davis) — Wed, 30 Nov 2011 18:09:00 +0000

Written by Jillian Toyad

An ambivalent Cinderella?
A blood-thirsty Little Red Riding Hood?
A Prince Charming with a roving eye?
A Witch who… raps??

The stage is set this December 9 and 10 for a twist on the fairytales we all grew up with as the Young Company brings James Lapine and Stephen Sondheim’s production, INTO THE WOODS, to life at the Youth Arts Hall, Milwaukee Youth Arts Center. With a one-of-a-kind cast made up of cockeyed characters, INTO THE WOODS tells the desperate tale of a Baker and his Wife.

When the Baker and his Wife learn they’ve been cursed with childlessness by the Witch next door, they embark on a quest for the special objects required to break the spell, swindling, lying to and stealing from Cinderella, Little Red, Rapunzel and Jack (the one who climbed the beanstalk). Everyone’s wish is granted, but the consequences of their actions return to haunt them later, with disastrous results. What begins as lively irreverent fantasy becomes a moving lesson about community responsibility and the stories we share with our children.

Director Katie Cummings and musical director Adam Baus join artistic forces once again after their collaboration in LITTLE WOMEN (2011). Cummings just recently joined the staff as School Year Academy Director in July 2011. She previously directed the Young Company’s production of LITTLE WOMEN in 2011 and was the resident director at St. Joseph’s High School in Kenosha for eight years. Baus teaches musical theatre for First Stage Theater Academy and teaches piano privately at Ronald Reagan High School (“Piano Club”). He is currently the pianist for FOUR GUYZ IN DINNER JACKETS who perform regularly in the Skylight Bar & Bistro as part of their cabaret series.

The cast of loopy characters is made up of First Stage’s Young Company performers. This includes Mitch Bultman as the Narrator/Mysterious Man; Ava Bush as Cinderella; Andrew Oppmann as Jack; Elizabeth Warren as Jack’s Mother; Garrett Kim as Baker; Kiaran Hartnett as Baker’s Wife; Abbi Minessale as Cinderella’s Stephmother; Hannah Obst as Florinda; Laura Troshynski as Lucinda; Matt Welden as Cinderella’s Father; Grace Bobber as Cinderella’s Mother; Ashley Patin as Little Red Ridinghood; Erin Stapelton as Witch; Jake Konrath as Wolf/Cinderella’s Prince; Kate Futoransky as Granny/Show White; Kamilah Lay as Rapunzel; Max Mainwood as Rapunzel’s Prince; Cassidy Buenz as Steward; and Isabel Hemley as Sleeping Beauty/Giant.

INTO THE WOODS serves as the opening for The Young Company’s 2011-2012 season. The Young Company is the advanced, college-level actor training program at First Stage. Young Company students complete coursework led by First Stage’s John Maclay, Todd Denning, Matt Daniels and Karl Miller as well as special guest artists. Young Company produces three shows a year.

Be sure to join us for this delightfully fractured fairytale. Can you really resist a Witch who raps?

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INTO THE WOODS
Music and Lyrics by Stephen Sondheim
Book by James Lapine
Originally directed on Broadway by James Lapine
Orchestrations by Jonathan Tunick

Directed by Katie Cummings
Musical Director Adam Baus

Performances will be held on Friday, December 9 at 7:00 p.m. and Saturday, December 10 at 2 and 7:00 p.m. at the Youth Arts Hall, Milwaukee Youth Arts Center, 325 W. Walnut St., Milwaukee. Advanced tickets are available now. Tickets are available at First Stage Academy Office at academy@firststage.org or (414) 267-2970. Ticket prices are $10 for adults and $5 for students and seniors. Seating is general admission.

For more information about Young Company, contact John Maclay at jmaclay@firststage.org or Patrick Schley at (414) 267-2970 or academy@firststage.org.

First Stage Holiday Check List!

noreply@blogger.com (Erica Davis) — Mon, 14 Nov 2011 17:56:00 +0000

Here are some fun ideas to get a jump on your holiday shopping AND support First Stage at the same time.

Adopt-a-trio!
These adorable WORM, SPIDER and FLY finger puppets are part of our annual FUNdraiser supporting new play development! These great puppets from our upcoming production of DIARY OF A WORM, A SPIDER, AND A FLY make a great stocking stuffer – or pair them with a First Stage gift certificate for a great gift! For a minimum donation of $25 you get the WORM, SPIDER and FLY finger puppets, the chance to write and submit your own play starring your puppets, and an exclusive invite to our “From the Page to the Stage” party on June 15, 2012 where select plays written by other adoptive parents will be performed! Available online, click here. (Be sure to put TRIO in the comment section!)

Give the gift of First Stage this holiday season!
First Stage Gift Certificates are available in any denomination and are valid for Theater Academy classes or tickets to our productions! If you order your gift certificates through the Academy office, we’ll also include a voucher good for one vintage Academy t-shirt so your young person can attend their class in style! For more information, contact us at (414) 267-2970 or academy@firststage.org.

Wisconsin Gives Back
Perfect for the cheese-head on your list, Wisconsin Gives Back 2012 calendars are available through December 18, 2011! Each calendar includes professional aerial landscape photography, a Wisconsin road map, Tourism Directory and 366 fun things to do throughout the state. Select First Stage as your non-profit/charity of choice and a portion of the proceeds will directly benefit First Stage! It's an easy way to give back. Visit www.wi-givesback.com

Join GoodSearch.com and select First StageDo your holiday shopping and do good all at the same time! This FREE online search tool and shopping site gives a % to the organization of your choice. Sign up today at GoodSearch.com

As First Stage’s 25^th anniversary season continues, we invite you to join us in this year-long celebration by getting involved with First Stage today! Here are some ideas for you to get involved and help ensure that we embark on the next 25 years ready to grow, serve our community and continue to provide professional theater for all ages at affordable prices!

See a performance
Share your experience - tell a friend about the play or post your reaction on our facebook page
Register for a Theater Academy class
Share information about our Theater in Education programs with your child's teacher or local school
Attend one of our 25th anniversary events
Give - we rely on community support to keep our programming affordable for all families
Volunteer - from our parent advisory group, the Green Room Society to volunteer usher, we need you!

Why theatre? Why opera? Why children?

noreply@blogger.com (Erica Davis) — Mon, 07 Nov 2011 17:49:00 +0000

During a time when slashed budgets have threatened arts education across all disciplines, this piece by writer Philip Pullman, originally published for London’s Unicorn Theatre in 2004 is as timely as ever.

Philip Pullman by Lisa Barnard

Why theatre? Why opera? Why children?

Children need to go to the theatre as much as they need to run about in the fresh air. They need to hear real music played by real musicians on real instruments as much as they need food and drink. They need to read and listen to proper stories as much as they need to be loved and cared for.

The difficulty with persuading grown-up people about this is that if you deprive children of shelter and kindness and food and drink and exercise, they die visibly, whereas if you deprive them of art and music and story and theatre, they perish on the inside, and their starvation doesn't show. So the grown-ups who should be responsible for providing these good and necessary things –-teachers, politicians, parents - don't always notice until it's too late; or they pretend that art and music and theatre and so on are not necessities at all, but expensive luxuries that only snobbish people want in any case; or they claim that children are perfectly happy with their computers and video games, and don't need anything else.

I'm not going to argue about this: I'm right. Children need art and music and literature, they need to go to art galleries and museums and theatres, they need to learn how to play musical instruments and to act and to dance. They need these things so much that human rights legislation alone should ensure that they get them.

But just let's think about the theatre for the moment.

The experience of being in the audience when a play or an opera is being performed is not simply passive. It's not like watching TV; it's not even like watching a film in the cinema. Everyone in that big space is alive, and everyone is focused on one central activity. And everyone contributes. The actors and the singers and the musicians contribute their performance; the audience contributes their attention, their silence, their laughter, their applause, their respect.

And they contribute their imagination too. The theatre can't do what cinema does, and make everything seem to happen literally. There are no pixels up there on the stage; what happens is caused by physical bodies moving about in real space, not by computer-generated imagery on a screen. So it has limitations. That isn't a real room, we can see that it's painted canvas; that isn't a real boy, it's a little wooden puppet. But the limitations leave room for the audience to fill in the gaps. We pretend these things are real, so the story can happen. The very limitations of theatre allow the audience to share in the acting. In fact, they require the audience to pretend. It won't work if they don’t.

But the result of this imaginative joining-in is that the story becomes much more real, in a strange way. It belongs to everyone, instead of only to the performers under the lights. The audience in the dark are makers too. And when it all works, the experience we take away is incomparably richer and fuller and more magical than it would ever have been if all we did was sit back passively and watch.

When we are adults, and if we're lucky enough to have developed the habit, we can find our own way to plays and operas; but children can't do it on their own. They need to be taken. They need to be helped to find their way into the experience by people who've been there before, and who can tell them something about it and excite their curiosity. A little knowledge helps a great deal. A theatre especially set up for children helps even more; and plays presented by people who know how to perform for children without talking down to them, or being facetious, or leaving their brains behind, are best of all.

I can remember evenings in the theatre, both as a child and as an adult, which were among the most important things I've ever known. Seeing Frankie Howard as Bottom in A Midsummer Night’s Dream at the Old Vic when I was nine, and laughing so much I fell off my seat; watching Peter Hall’s production of the Oresteia at the National Theatre, and feeling a sense of awe at the gradual unfolding of this ancient, savage, profound story; more recently, simultaneously helpless with laughter and shivering with pity and terror at the extraordinary Shock-Headed Peter. If I hadn't seen those things, my life would be much the poorer. Theatre feeds the heart and nourishes the soul and enlarges the spirit.

The best description of the way this happens comes in Tove Jansson’s wonderful Moominsummer Madness. The Moomin family, after being flooded out of their home, find a refuge in a floating theatre; but none of them has seen a theatre before, and they are puzzled by the oddness of this house with its rooms full of wigs and costumes, and stairs that end in mid-air, and doors that have stoves painted on their other side. Emma, an old stage rat, comes out of hiding to tell them about it, and says "A theatre is the most important sort of house in the world, because that's where people are shown what they could be if they wanted, and what they'd like to be if they dared to, and what they really are."

No-ones ever said it better.

Philip Pullman

For more on the discussion of diminishing arts education in our schools, tune into this episode of MPTV’s 4^th Street Forum entitled, “WILL OUR CHILDREN DANCE AND SING?” Host Raul Vasquez is joined by guests Rob Goodman, Managing Director, First Stage; Kari Couture, Community Arts Specialist, Partnership for the Arts, Milwaukee Public Schools; Jennifer Snyder Kozoroz, Director of the Progressions Program, Milwaukee Youth Symphony Orchestry; and Bill Jackson, Actor, Director and Choreographer and Former Drama Teacher, Milwaukee School of the Arts and South Milwaukee High School as they discuss this question and explore solutions.

Alumni Spotlight: Elizabeth Kay

noreply@blogger.com (Erica Davis) — Mon, 31 Oct 2011 18:20:00 +0000

Written by: Jillian Toyad

In today’s Alumni Spotlight, we are featuring Elizabeth Kay from 99.1’s The Morning Mix radio show. Elizabeth shares her experience and the lessons she learned at First Stage.

Elizabeth Kay: Host of 99.1's The Morning Mix
and proud First Stage alumni

Elizabeth was not always the confident, energetic personality one hears on 99.1’s The Morning Mix. In fact, she was the volleyball-playing class president who never thought she would be the person she is today.

And then came that one summer day when she walked through the First Stage doors.

Prior to her first day, Elizabeth had never even considered First Stage until her mother convinced her to join the Summer Academy. That day sparked a long-lasting love for First Stage in Elizabeth, who up until this very day values everything she learned and everyone she met at First Stage. “It really is the best place on earth.”

Elizabeth enrolled in First Stage during her sophomore year in high school and continued until her high school graduation. During her three years, Elizabeth was involved with the Summer Academy and Company Class, and performed in First Stage’s productions of PHANTOM TOLLBOOTH and COMEDY OF ERRORS. Through the people she met at First Stage, Elizabeth also got involved with the Jewish Community Center (JCC), where she performed in ANN FRANK AND ME during her junior year in high school. She enjoyed her time with the JCC so much that she chose to complete her necessary service hours at the daycare/nursery during her senior year of high school.

Her favorite memory of First Stage was after Academy when everyone would just autograph each other’s t-shirts and everyone’s t-shirts would be covered in an array of colors and handwriting, something she claims truly embodies what First Stage is: a mix of totally unique people from different backgrounds.

Elizabeth went on to pursue a degree in Broadcast Journalism and Advertising/Public Relations with a minor in Communications at UW-Milwaukee and following her graduation, found herself hosting a radio show in Green Bay. After a few years in Green Bay, Elizabeth and her husband moved back to Milwaukee in 2008 so her husband could pursue firefighter and paramedic training and Elizabeth returned to First Stage for a position in the marketing department. Elizabeth remained a member of the First Stage staff for a year and a half before agreeing to host The Morning Mix.

When Elizabeth’s mother forced her out of her comfort zone and enrolled her in First Stage, Elizabeth did not realize that she was being groomed for her career. Elizabeth said that her time at First Stage taught her much of what she needed to know to be a radio show host: stage presence, improv, people skills, vocal exercises, and more. In fact, she still recites “Unique New York” (a tongue-twister used in vocal warm-ups) to herself every morning on her way to work. “First Stage gave me the confidence to be in the media,” said Elizabeth.

Elizabeth Kay gets pulled on stage with Kidd O'Shea during
First Stage's THE BEST CHRISTMAS PAGEANT EVER

Elizabeth said she left her job at First Stage with a heavy heart because it felt like she was leaving her family. Throughout her years with First Stage, Elizabeth developed strong bonds with people she still keeps in contact with today. She said she had her family and her First Stage family – both of whom helped her get through rough times. She credits First Stage for all the support they have given her during both the good times and the bad.

If there was one great quality about First Stage that Elizabeth had to single out, it would have to be the amount of positivity that First Stage radiates, “There is no other place in the world that is oozing with such positive energy, creativity and encouragement like First Stage.” She mentions that in Academy, they always have a session at the end of the day during which the students acknowledge one other student for something good. “If people took the time to do that at work, can you imagine how different the productivity level would be?”

Her message to current, past and future students of First Stage,“Don’t take for granted how positive and awesome First Stage is. There’s no other place like it! But if some of us took some of that positivity to our jobs and families, just imagine how awesome a place it would be! … If it all had a little bit of First Stage.”

The Life and Art of Della Wells

noreply@blogger.com (Erica Davis) — Fri, 28 Oct 2011 18:50:00 +0000

Written by: Jillian Toyad

It is Opening Night for DON’T TELL ME I CAN’T FLY and we at First Stage could not be more excited! This Y York production was inspired by the life and art of Milwaukee collage artist, Della Wells. With this in mind, the theme for the day is inspiration, and we want to share some of Della Wells’ pieces that inspired not only the playwright, but the costume and set designers as well!

Costume designer Daryl Harris fashioned his costumes to resemble some of Della’s collages.

I Don't Care What You Say. Mr. Bridges I Am Still Going To Do My Sonji Dance! By Della Wells

This piece titled I Don’t Care What You Say Mr. Bridges I Am Still Going To Do My Sonji Dance influenced Tonia’s, the lead character, last costume. It was fashioned to resemble the costume of the main character in this collage.

Don’t Forget To Wash My Blanket by Della Wells

Set designer Collette Pollard crafted an entire set based on the collages of Della Wells. This particular piece, Don’t Forget To Wash My Blanket, inspired the muted wallpaper in the set.

Della Wells’ collages are inspired by the stories she wrote as a child based on her mother’s recollections of growing up in North Carolina during the 1920s, 1930s and 1940s. Her stories were a way to escape the madness of her mother’s mental illness and her father’s rage. With so many stories filled with passion and emotion, it is no wonder First Stage commissioned Y York to piece together a production on such an inspiring tale.

Mama Sawyer Got Upset by Della Wells

In turn, DON’T TELL ME I CAN’T FLY inspired some of Della Wells’ newer pieces.

Tonia by Della Wells

This piece by Della Wells was inspired by the lead character in the play, Tonia. Tonia is a 9 year old girl living in 1960s Bronzeville Milwaukee. She struggles to find a balance between her parents’ low-key lifestyle and her own artistic soul. Tonia’s tale is an inspiring tale on the transformative power of art and how a young girl comes to realize that friends and family appreciate her uniqueness and embrace the young artist she is.

The world premiere of DON’T TELL ME I CAN’T FLY runs October 28 through November 13, 2011 at the Todd Wehr Theater in the Marcus Center for the Performing Arts, 929 N. Water St., downtown Milwaukee. Tickets can be purchased in person at the Marcus Center box office, by phone at (414) 273-7206 or online at http://www.firststage.org/pages/view.asp?id=10547125

Della Wells' art pieces can be found at artnet.com and marciaweberartobjects.com

Meet the Cast of DON'T TELL ME I CAN'T FLY!

noreply@blogger.com (Erica Davis) — Wed, 26 Oct 2011 19:17:00 +0000

Written by: Jillian Toyad

No words can describe the excitement revolving around the world premiere of DON’T TELL ME I CAN’T FLY, opening Friday, Oct. 28. Amidst the hustle and bustle of it all, it is only right that we introduce you to our beloved and talented cast members!

From award-winning playwright Y York, DON’T TELL ME I CAN’T FLY was inspired by the life and art of Milwaukee collage artists, Della Wells. The play paints an inspirational and engaging portrait of the life of Tonia, a 9-year-old African-American girl living in 1960s Bronzeville Milwaukee, and her struggle to find balance between her parents’ low-profile lifestyle and her own artistic soul. “The play is about how human beings use art to make sense of the universe and about the transformative power of art,” said director, Mark Lutwak.

Young performers, Matthew Wade, LaNae Ramey, Ashley Nord and Dashaun McCray are excited to be a part of the cast!

Fifth-grader, Ashley Nord, makes her debut performance with First Stage as Tonia in the Miss Katie cast. This creative and bubbly girl from Glendale first began classes with First Stage when she was six and is now with the African American Children’s Theatre. Ashley aspires for a career in fashion design, acting and teaching.

Twelve-year-old LaNae Ramey from Milwaukee takes on the role of Tonia in the Miss Merci cast. She is a seventh-grader at North Middle School, Menomonee Falls, who loves to sing and act. LaNea has participated with First Stage at the Daniels-Mardak Boys & Girls Club and is currently a student at the First Stage Theater Academy.

Matthew Wade, a fourth-grader at Golda Meir School, will play the role of Theo in the Miss Kate cast. Matthew has previously been in First Stage’s production of PETER PAN AND WENDY in which he played one of the lost boys, Bumbershoot and feels blessed to be a part of another First Stage production!

Dashaun McCray, 13, is an eighth-grader at Atonement Lutheran School. He has performed with Milwaukee’s City Ballet and in school productions including BETSY ROSS and PIRATES. With African American Children’s Theater, he performed in HARRIET TUBMAN’S FREEDOM TRAIN, THE INVENTORS and APPARENTLY NOT. Dashaun said that the opportunity to perform with First Stage is a “dream come true.”

The adult cast for DON’T TELL ME I CAN’T FLY brings back a familiar face for the part of Alma Bridge: Tiffany Yvonne Cox. Tiffany was last seen at First Stage as Addaperle/Lord High Underling in THE WIZ. Since then she has continued to work in Chicago and the Midwest. Recently you may have seen her at American Players Theatre (THE TEMPEST), Renaissance Theaterworks/Uprooted Theatre (CRUMBS FROM THE TABLE OF JOY), Griffin Theatre Company (LETTERS HOME tour). She has also worked at Chicago Dramatists, Goodman Theatre, Chicago Children's Theatre and several other regional theatres. Tiffany is also a founding member of UPROOTED Theatre.

Chauncy Thomas makes his debut with First Stage as Leon Bridge. Prior to this performance, he was in ROMEO AND JULIET, RUINED, PERICLES and THE REAL MCCOY at St. Louis Black Rep; CRUMBS FROM THE TABLE OF JOY with Mustard Seed Theatre; and EURYDICE with Orange Girls. He spent three years performing children’s theatre for the St. Louis Rep. Thomas currently resides in St. Louis and next will be seen in ON GOLDEN POND at St. Louis Black Rep. Thomas is also a member of the Actor’s Equity Association.

Making her First Stage debut is Chinai Hardy as Aunt Franny. Most recently, Chinai appeared in THE TRIP TO BOUNTIFUL at the Cleveland Play House and Roundhouse Theatre. She was also in the World Premiere of Pearl Cleage’s THE NACIREMA SOCIETY REQUESTS THE HONOR OF YOUR PRESENCE AT A CELEBRATION OF THEIR FIRST ONE HUNDRED YEARS at the Alabama Shakespeare Festival and Alliance Theatre. Hardy’s other productions include IN THE RED AND BROWN WATER that won the Suzi Bass Award for Best Ensemble, FOR COLORED GIRLS WHO HAVE CONSIDERED SUICIDE/ WHEN THE RAINBOW IS ENUF, CROWNS, A LESSON BEFORE DYING, SECRETS OF A SOCCER MOM, IN DARFUR and DAMN YANKEES. She, too, is a member of the Actor’s Equity Association.

DON’T TELL ME I CAN’T FLY was part of the Kennedy Center’s New Visions/New Voices Biennial Festival in 2010. The play also marks the beginning of First Stage’s Wisconsin Cycle, during which First Stage will develop and produce six plays that celebrate the history and people of Wisconsin.

The world premiere of DON’T TELL ME I CAN’T FLY runs October 28 through November 13, 2011 at the Todd Wehr Theater in the Marcus Center for the Performing Arts, 929 N. Water St., downtown Milwaukee. Tickets can be purchased in person at the Marcus Center box office, by phone at (414) 273-7206 or online at http://www.firststage.org/pages/view.asp?id=10547125

Dyer’s All-School Field Trip to See Seussical

noreply@blogger.com (Erica Davis) — Wed, 19 Oct 2011 17:05:00 +0000

Written by: Joyce Uglow of Dyer Intermediate School, Burlington, WI

Photo Credit: Horton played by Rick Pendzich and Gertrude played by Amber Nicole Dilger (Mrs. Ester's daughter-in-law) in SEUSSICAL. Photo by Jared Clarkin, First Stage.

On October 12, Dyer Intermediate School filled the entire Todd Wehr Theater in Milwaukee to see Seussical. In preparation for the trip, Dyer’s music teacher, Mrs. Ester taught the lyrics and storyline to Dyer’s fifth and sixth grade music classes. Throughout the musical, Dyer students could be seen smiling and could be heard singing along with the characters! Besides the cultural experience of seeing a musical, the students had the opportunity to think some “Big Thinks.”

In Seussical, which is based on the works of Dr. Seuss, Horton is bullied for being different. In spite of bullying, Horton continues to be a caring “elephant” and strives to find a lost clover in order to save Whoville. Throughout the musical, a bird named Gertrude unsuccessfully attempted to get Horton’s attention. Gertrude even went to a doctor for help in growing a long, fancy tail. Along the way, both Horton and Gertrude became more aware of what is truly important and eventually “find” each other. In fact, both Horton and Gertrude stand up for what is different and right. The Cat in the Hat told the audience, “It’s possible. Anything’s possible.”

Seussical’s Big Thinks hit home for the Dyer tweens because it is at this age that attempts to be an individual, find oneself, make friends and fend off bullying are commonplace. Horton reminded us, “A person is a person no matter how small.”

The Dyer students and staff enjoyed a bag lunch at Whitnall Park after seeing the incredibly well done play. Sixth grader, Shandon Walton proclaimed that the play was “stunning” and that it was amazing to see how “seriously the young actors took their roles.”

This field trip was in part thanks to Music Matter of Burlington. Music Matters is a not-for-profit group raising funds to promote and support the musical programming in the Burlington community through collaboration with school and community groups as well as individuals. The organization supports the musical staff of the Burlington Area School District in spreading awareness of the extraordinary musical programs offered in order to publicly share the success of these and other community musical programs. You can find more information about the Burlington Music Matters group at their website http://sites.google.com/site/burlingtonmusicmatters/home.

Something that Cat in the Hat said is something for all of us to keep in mind: “Oh the thinks you can think if you’re willing to try.”

Bully Ban Workshop: Bringing Bullying in Schools to an End

noreply@blogger.com (Erica Davis) — Mon, 17 Oct 2011 15:10:00 +0000

Written by: Jillian Toyad

A bully is defined as a person who teases, threatens or hurts smaller or weaker persons repeatedly. The act of bullying takes many forms – physical, social, verbal and cyberbullying – all of which can cause much damage, mainly emotional, to the victim. Bullying is a serious concern in all our schools and is not an issue that can be overlooked. That is why First Stage has a Bully Ban workshop to educate children about the problems with bullying and how to face the issue as both someone who is involved or an observer.

First Stage's Bully Ban Workshop

First Stage’s Bully Ban Workshop examines all the different forms of bullying that occur in school communities. The workshop works to promote respect and tolerance among classmates, as well as teach tactics in problem solving, positive conflict resolution and how to overcome obstacles – all through theatrical and artistic activities. Younger participants usually investigate bullying through storytelling and role-playing where else the older participants will have activities such as improvisational scenes, character hot seating and sculpting. The workshop is tailored for every individual grade, from K4 to Grade 8, and addresses the specific needs of each school or classroom involved.

This month is Bullying Prevention Awareness Month and First Stage wants to ensure that everyone, be it children, parents or educators, is fully aware of the harm that bullying can bring to a child. While the Bully Ban Workshop educates children on the issue, it is also important for parents and educators to recognize the warning signs of both a child who is being bullied and a child that is bullying others. Here are a few tips:

Things You Need to Know About Bullying

Warning signs of being bullied:

Comes home with damaged or missing clothing or other belongings

Reports losing items such as books, electronics, clothing, or jewelry

Has unexplained injuries

Complains frequently of headaches, stomachaches, or feeling sick

Has trouble sleeping or has frequent bad dreams

Has changes in eating habits

Hurts themselves

Are very hungry after school from not eating their lunch

Runs away from home

Loses interest in visiting or talking with friends

Is afraid of going to school or other activities with peers

Loses interest in school work or begins to do poorly in school

Appears sad, moody, angry, anxious or depressed when they come home

Talks about suicide

Feels helpless

Often feels like they are not good enough

Blames themselves for their problems

Suddenly has fewer friends

Avoids certain places

Acts differently than usual

Warning signs of bullying others:

Becomes violent with others

Gets into physical or verbal fights with others

Gets sent to the principal’s office or detention a lot

Has extra money or new belongings that cannot be explained

Is quick to blame others

Will not accept responsibility for their actions

Has friends who bully others

Needs to win or be best at everything

(Taken from http://stopbullying.gov)

Research shows that bullying is one of the main causes for many psychological or emotional problems, as well as the reason some choose to partake in social ills. Therefore, with enough awareness and effort in eradicating bullying in all schools, we could shape a generation of healthy and confident young people. We believe every child has the right to a safe and wholesome school environment, and every child has the right to grow up to a wonderful, healthy life.

Help prevent bullying and create a better world for our kids!

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The Bully Ban Workshop is part of First Stage’s concept of teaching through theater. This program introduces a series of arts-integrated workshops that aims to teach lessons throughout the elementary and middle school curricula. The Teaching Through Theater programs enhance students' understanding and comprehension of curricular topics through dramatic learning techniques such as role play, improvised scene work, movement based exercises and pantomime.

The workshops are priced at $300 for the first classroom and $250 for each subsequent classroom. Workshops catered to those in Grades K4 to 2 will consist of two 50 minute sessions within one week where else those for Grades 3 to 8 will consist of two 75 minute sessions within one week.

For information, or to schedule a workshop for your classroom, contact (414) 267-2978 or workshops@firststage.org

First Stage Young Company takes on the Utah Shakespeare Festival

noreply@blogger.com (Erica Davis) — Thu, 13 Oct 2011 19:33:00 +0000

Each year, members of the First Stage Young Company travel to compete in the Utah Shakespeare Festival’s High School Shakespeare Competition. They join together with more than 100 schools from across the country in a weekend of monologue, small scene, and large scene competitions – like a Forensics meet, but for Shakespeare! This year, 11 students (self-nicknamed “Team Yorick”) traveled with John Maclay and Jennifer Adams to the competition. Academy student Garrett Kim reflected on the experience.

Garrett Kim

Our adventure began Thursday morning as the group convened in the airport. Parting ways with our families, the prospect of the weekend’s excitement gave us the energy for the day’s travels. The flight from Milwaukee to Las Vegas (or “Lost Wages”) was followed by a scenic van ride through the mountains to Cedar City, Utah. The landscape gave us chills as did the cool weather. After a pizza party in Matt Steege and Yorick’s spacious room (nicknamed “the Hub”), we ran through our scenes and turned in early.

On Friday, we hit the streets of downtown Cedar City where we stumbled upon the delightful Grind Café, perused a bookstore and old-fashioned drug store, and crossed the streets with the convenient traffic flags. Then, we toured Southern Utah University, the site of the festival. We watched some impromptu rehearsals while getting ourselves acquainted with the layout of the campus. After lunch, we met up with [Young Company co-director] Todd [Denning] to show him our material, and then it was off to the competition! Moving from round to round, we saw the good, the wacky, and the just plain wicked (no seriously—a Wicked tribute featuring a green Kate and bubbly Bianca from Taming of the Shrew). Throughout the competition, we ran into the lovely, talented people of Theater Arts Conservatory from Salt Lake City. The chilly night ended with SUU’s production of King Lear outdoors in the replica Globe Theater. Needless to say, we were thankful for the hot chocolate being sold.

The next morning was our ensemble scene. We watched a few scenes before performing, including TAC’s stunning and sassy mash-up of the Henry VI’s and Richard III telling the heartbreaking story of Margaret. After some quick rehearsals, we performed the last scene from As You Like It, which everyone agreed went smashingly. With our competitive responsibilities over, we headed to the Hong Kong Buffet to meet our friends from TAC for a celebratory lunch. We all loved joking around and sharing stories with lovely people who love doing this as much as we do. Saturday afternoon, we saw Todd and a whole slew of Milwaukee-affiliated actors in Winter’s Tale (if you want to know how beautiful the show was, ask Mitch Bultman—he still isn’t over it).

Later that night at the awards show, Christine Pollnow scored a 3^rd place victory for her Juliet monologue, and we earned 3^rd place overall as a team (a very comfortable place to be, per John)! John, Jenn, and Todd said over and over how proud of us they were. We drank Splashberries and celebrated with TAC at the local IHOP before parting ways for the weekend, assuring each other we’d be Facebook friends soon. For the rest of the night, we Skyped with friends from Minnesota and hung out in the hotel.

Team Yorick

Todd met up with us again Sunday morning to take us on a hike up through the mountains. It was rejuvenating and relaxing and the perfect way to end a spectacular weekend. The journey back to Milwaukee included a drive down the Las Vegas strip, more Skyping, and lots of napping. We got back late Sunday night dreading the inevitable exhaustion of the next day at school. I’m so glad I got to do this with such an amazing, friendly, and talented bunch of people! This trip will stay with me forever. Whenever I’m having a rough day or losing my mind at school, all I’ll have to do is pull out my Yorick necklace, and I’ll be back in Cedar City with my friends, the mountains, and the Bard.

Art Inspires Art... Which Inspires More Art!

noreply@blogger.com (Erica Davis) — Fri, 07 Oct 2011 19:46:00 +0000

Written by: Meaghan Morrissey.

Developing new works, new audiences and new artists has been and always will be the hallmark of First Stage. This season, First Stage is thrilled to debut a world premiere production about the extraordinarily life and art of local African American visual artist Della Wells. This artistic journey began in 2009 when First Stage commissioned celebrated playwright Y York to write a play inspired by the life of Della Wells. Y York recalls her first meeting with Della in this way:

“When [First Stage Artistic Director] Jeff Frank introduced me to her work, a curiosity stirred inside me when I glimpsed the images of her collages and read about her life, and I knew I wanted to meet her, to talk and to have faith that a play would emerge inspired by the life and art of Della Wells….It wasn’t very long before I started to let characters talk to me, then to each other. I am astonished how like a Della Wells collage this process has been, with Della supplying the pieces, the touchstones of truth, with me supplying the fabric and the paint that are now marrying on a canvas we are calling DON’T TELL ME I CAN’T FLY.”

DON’T TELL ME I CAN’T FLY will have its world premiere October 28 – November 13, 2011 during First Stage’s 25^th Anniversary season. The playwriting process, the production, and the many community collaborations surrounding this artistic work are a telling example of the importance of encouraging artistic expression in our community - especially among young people today.

Artist Della Wells works with students at the Daniels-Mardak Boys & Girls Club to create a collage entitled What it Means to Fly

True to our mission of developing the artists and audiences of the future, First Stage embraced our long-standing partnership with the Daniels-Mardak Boys & Girls Club. Every Tuesday and Thursday for three weeks this summer, Della Wells worked with students at the Daniel-Mardak Boys & Girls Club to create a large-scale collage which depicts the students' ideas and reactions to the question "What does it mean to fly?"

The students also wrote poems in response to the question "What does it mean to fly?" Fascinatingly, after their experience with Della, many students connected this question to their personal beliefs about art and the role of art in their own lives. Three students, Monet, Querra, and Ahlexis, share their poems below!

The collage will be exhibited alongside original art work by Della Wells within the Milwaukee Youth Arts Center. The collage will be the centerpiece in an exhibition entitled What it Means to Fly which will run from October 7 - December 31, 2011. This exhibition is free and open to the public.

In addition, original works of art by Della Wells will hang alongside the students’ collage. These brand new pieces were inspired by the creative process of bringing DON’T TELL ME I CAN’T FLY to life – a telling example of how art inspires art which inspires more art.

What it Means to Fly

An exhibition by Della Wells in collaboration with Daniels-Mardak Boys & Girls Club Students

In conjunction with First Stage’s world premiere production of DON’T TELL ME I CAN’T FLY

For more information or to buy tickets for DON'T TELL ME I CAN'T FLY, click here,
or call (414) 273-7206

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Poems by students from the Daniel-Mardak Boys & Girls Club

I Love Art Because… (by Monet)
I love art because
I can express myself though my colors that I use.
If I’m happy
I use bright colors like yellow, pink and white.
If I’m sappy
I use colors like purple and orange.
And when I’m raging mad
I use colors like red and black.
But if I’m relaxed
I use brown and baby blue.
If I’m really sad
I use blue and gray.
Do you express yourself though art?

Now It’s Time to Fly (by Querra)
Now, it’s time to fly and dream big things
Now it’s time to believe and succeed
And hope what it can be
To be big things
Big things like a role model
Like express my talent
It might be hard
You can get though it if you believe in yourself

Don’t Tell Me I Can’t Fly (by Ahlexis)
Don’t tell me I can’t fly because
I know I can fly high.
Sometimes you need to know
That all our words won’t flow.
If you believe in yourself
You just tell yourself and
Everyone else.
Don’t tell me I can’t fly.

Calling All First Stage Alumni

noreply@blogger.com (Erica Davis) — Fri, 30 Sep 2011 20:46:00 +0000

In conjunction with First Stage’s 25^th anniversary season, First Stage has launched its Alumni Network in an effort to reach out and connect with the growing number of past Young Performers, Theater Academy students, and other friends of First Stage. After 25 years, we have a lot to look back on: productions, Academy classes, countless workshops and residencies in schools, and the refining and discovery of young talents. The new Alumni Network allows us and alumni from all corners of the globe to reminisce about past years, rekindle old friendships and stay in touch with one another. As much as we’re looking forward to our future, we want to show our appreciation to everyone who has been with us over these past years and helped make First Stage what we are today.

To kick off this new project, First Stage is hosting an Alumni Homecoming for past students, teachers and artists. This event promises a fun-filled evening with performances by students in our Glee Club and Organized Chaos improv group, as well as a chance to reunite old friends and former teachers. Also, we’re giving attendees the chance to relive Academy days with our honorary guests. Former teachers will be coming back for this special event to lead exercises that you may remember from your days in Academy. There will also be opportunities throughout the night to record testimonials about your time at First Stage. Don’t miss out on this incredible night dedicated especially to you!

Save the Date!

Alumni Homecoming
Friday, December 30, 2011
6:00 – 10:00 p.m.
Milwaukee Youth Arts Center

Also, if you haven’t already, be sure to join the network and “like” the Facebook page, https://www.facebook.com/fsalumni. We encourage you to share stories, photos and even videos of your time with First Stage!

We also introduce the Alumni Spotlight series, in which we will be highlighting some of our alumni, sharing their past and current experiences.

In today’s spotlight, we have actor and composer, Brett Ryback.

Muskego native Brett Ryback began his theatrical career with First Stage when he was just 5 years old. Since then, he has become an accomplished actor, composer and award-winning playwright. He recently returned to First Stage as the musical director for SEUSSICAL, working alongside director Tony Clements, who was incidentally the music director when Ryback performed in the 1995 production of CADDIE WOODLAWN. Clements notes that, "He's not just a music director to this production. He's a great collaborator. For the cast and for me. I knew Brett would come in with a point of view and a good eye. There have been numerous times throughout this process that I've relied on him (and Jessica Redish, our choreographer) for things far beyond singing and dancing."

Other First Stage productions that Ryback performed in back in the 90s include TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD and JAMES AND THE GIANT PEACH.

Ryback’s repertoire has seemingly increased since First Stage. In California, Ryback had the opportunity to act in world premieres of IMAGINE AND DR. CERBERUS for Orange County’s South Coast Repertory, as well as appear in television series such as “House” and “How I Met Your Mother.” He has also contributed extensively to the musical theater scene with Liberty Inn (Ovation Award nominations Best Book, Best Music/Lyrics), Weïrd (Winner, Tennessee Williams One-Act Competition), and A Roz By Any Other Name (Winner, Henrico County Theatre, Virginia, One-Act Competition).

In February, Milwaukee Chamber Theatre and Skylight Opera Theatre will collaborate on a reading of Ryback’s musical, THE TAVERN KEEPER’S DAUGHTER. The musical is based on the story of his grandparents whom he describes as “two Polish kids from Milwaukee in the 1940s,” as quoted in the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. A cabaret of Ryback’s works will also play at Skylight Opera Theatre this coming March through April.

Read the Journal Sentinel’s piece about Ryback’s return to First Stage as the Musical Director for SEUSSICAL here.

Stay tuned for more Alumni Spotlights!

Written by: Jillian Toyad

The Hartnett Whos

noreply@blogger.com (Erica Davis) — Thu, 22 Sep 2011 21:40:00 +0000

I’m so happy to be in the Blue Fish cast of SEUSSICAL with my brother and my sister! I’m the oldest of the Hartnett Whos. My younger brother, Liam, my younger sister, Bryn and I all have the opportunity to share this experience together. Last year, I was in MY SON PINOCCHIO with Bryn, and I got to know her on a level I never would have thought possible. This show is a great way to become closer to my brother and sister.

Bryn, Liam and Kirian Hartnett

I started performing in second grade, and was in my first show in third grade. Liam was in his first show in first grade, and Bryn’s was in first grade as well. My family moved to Milwaukee in 2007, and we became involved with First Stage Theater Academy about a year later. I personally did not find out about how to audition for a main stage show until last year. The three of us tried out, and each of us got into a show. I played Mother Fox and Bryn played Sue in MY SON PINOCCHIO, and Liam was in MISS NELSON IS MISSING! as Billy. At the end of the season, the three of us were called back to be in SEUSSICAL, and I consider it a blessing that we all got in the same show.

All three of us agree that being in a First Stage show is an amazing experience. It gives kids a glimpse of what it’s like to work as a professional actor, and young performers get to meet some really fantastic people! We get to make memories to hold with us forever and create long lasting friendships. Being a high school student, I sometimes find it hard missing school for shows, but because I love what I’m doing so much, and I want to keep going, I stay on top of my work. Bryn and Liam at first found the choreography challenging, but with lots of practice, they’ve both come a long way.

My family has always loved this show. My mom was Mrs. Mayor in 2006 when we lived in Illinois. Liam played Horton, Bryn played Jojo, and I assistant directed Suessical Jr. this past summer. But there’s something special about the way first stage interprets the show. It has beautiful harmony, crazy dances, colorful costumes, and the audience has just as much fun as the actors do while they’re on stage! We hope you come to the show to experience the wonderful world of Seuss!

One Fish, Two Fish, I'd Like to be a Red Fish!

noreply@blogger.com (Erica Davis) — Thu, 15 Sep 2011 22:41:00 +0000

by Keely Savitt

When I was four I was in the Nutcracker in Portland, Oregon and I loved being on stage! I have loved dancing and singing since I was really little. I figured out that I loved acting too when we moved to Milwaukee. My mom got me involved with some community theatre and then someone invited us to the First Stage Make Believe Ball. People there told us about the Academy classes and all the shows. I signed up for Summer Academy and it was so much fun because you really got to bring your inner person out. My school classes started going to see the First Stage shows and I really loved them! My mom found out about auditioning which I tried and I received my first callback for a show. I didn’t get the part but that was okay because I went to see the show and it make me think more about the character. I kept taking First Stage classes during the summer, during spring break and on weekends. It’s so much fun to meet lots of new people and I love working on my acting skills. I auditioned again the next year and I got in a show which was so exciting!

Keely in First Stage's Pinocchio

Now I have been in three shows with First Stage and each one has been a different experience. I love being in “Seussical” because it’s crazy and colorful and funny and has great songs. Dr. Seuss stories are special because everyone grows up

reading them. My mom met Dr. Seuss at a friend’s house when she was in high school and he signed her Cat in the Hat book which is so cool! I love being a Who in the show and the dancing has been much harder in Seussical than the other shows I’ve been in. But once you get it, it seems so easy and fun! We practice for a month on weekends and school nights before the show opens. It helps to listen to the songs and read the script at home so that I am extra prepared when I get to rehearsals. There are two casts of kids in each show so that we can do lots of shows and everyone gets a chance, and so that if someone gets sick their counterpart is ready to take their place. For Seussical I am in the “Red Fish Cast” but I love it when we rehearse with the “Blue Fish Cast” as well so that I can see everyone together. I look forward to doing many more shows with First Stage and I wish that everyone can have an experience as fun as this one!

Favorite theater-going tips from parents

noreply@blogger.com (Erica Davis) — Fri, 26 Aug 2011 15:52:00 +0000

Take MY kids to a live theater performance? Yes! Some theater-savvy First Stage parents shared their theater-going tips during a facebook promotion via Metroparent Magazine this summer. Here are some of our favorites:

· Read the books (that the shows are based on) before going to the theater. That way kids can anticipate the story and follow along better. If you can’t get the book in time they are often available for purchase at reasonable prices in the lobby!

· Make sure the little ones (*remember children under the age of 3 are not permitted into the theater) are well rested and have had a small snack before you go so that they are content and can sit through the performance. Snacks are available for purchase pre-show and at intermission but please be aware, food and beverages may not be brought into the theater.

· Prepare kids for “theater manners” (no talking out loud… no getting up and walking around) before you go… but remember they are kids so don’t have unrealistic expectations, they’re bound to fidget and ask questions.

· Enjoy the experience!

· First row balcony seats are GREAT at First Stage. They are a little less expensive and you get an awesome view of the show.

· Talk to your kids about what will go on while you are at the theater and what you expect them to act like. Definitely make sure they use the bathroom before the show starts and familiarize them with the story of what they will be seeing so they can get excited about it! It’s also a good idea to go on a full tummy, but letting kids have too many sweets can cause upset tummies.

· Arrive early. Plan for enough time to park, find your seats, melt downs, and again, use the potty. Getting to the theater early allows you time to show the kids the costume renderings for the production on display in the lobby and discover where the restrooms and drinking fountains are located.

· My best tip is to take your kids! So many people comment to us that they can’t believe we take our girls… they love it! Just don’t expect perfection from them. First Stage is a great place for kids no worries about being “too loud.”

· I think parents should take their children. I believe this will be an exciting learning experience for them. I always set ground rules about being on your best behavior, staying together and most importantly use the restroom before hand.

· Stack sweatshirts on the seat for the shorter kids to see better.

· Sit back and watch your kids enjoy the show!

· I think preparation in general is the best course. Prepare your kids for what to expect and what is expected of them, allow time for parking etc.

· If your child is a little apprehensive about being in the theater for the show (too scary, too loud) bring them anyway. You can always watch the show on one of the monitors in the lobby until the apprehension goes away, or ask the House Manager about any startling moments in the play you can anticipate.

· Read the program cover to cover. First Stage’s outstanding education department puts together great pre- and post show discussion questions that are great while you’re waiting for the play to start and for the car ride home.

· Talk about the play on the way home!

· Make great memories.

For more information about our 2011-12 Family Series at the Todd Wehr Theater, Click HERE.

Children's Theatre Foundation of America recognizes First Stage and Rob Goodman

noreply@blogger.com (Erica Davis) — Wed, 03 Aug 2011 18:04:00 +0000

Xan Johnson, Ph.D. and Rob Goodman
Photo by Marilee and Bob Miller

First Stage and Rob Goodman, managing director, have been selected as recipients of the 2011 Orlin Corey Medallion Award by the Children’s Theatre Foundation of America. The award honors significant achievements contributing to the cultural enrichment of children and youth through nurturing artistic work in theater. Goodman and First Stage Board of Directors member Greg Schmeling accepted the award at the annual Medallion Luncheon held in Chicago on Friday, July 29.

Presenter Xan Johnson, Ph.D. and full professor in the Department of Theatre at the University of Utah said, “Rob Goodman and his co-collaborators met the challenge of starting a new theatre and grew First Stage into a magnificent national model of community engagement and artistic excellence. A champion of new works, First Stage helps sustain the growing canon of dramatic literature that is our identity, including partnerships with schools and families that anchor seasons and build audiences. Rob’s vision is clear, to genuinely transform young lives, it is essential to honestly represent the viewpoint of the child on stage.”

The award is named for Orlin Corey, theatre visionary, acclaimed play publisher in the field of youth theatre, and past president of the Children’s Theatre Foundation of America. The award is presented annually at the American Association of Theatre and Education conference.

Rob Goodman said, “My heartfelt thanks and deepest gratitude goes to the board of the Children’s Theatre Foundation of America for recognizing First Stage for these past 25 years of dedication to our mission of transforming lives through theater. If I personally have accomplished anything in these 25 years it is due to two things: passionately keeping the vision alive and hiring great people who not only share the vision but have the skill, talent, heart and perseverance to bring it to life.”

The Children’s Theatre Foundation of America (CTFA) was founded in 1958 to advance the artistic and professional interests of theater for the young in the USA. First Stage was awarded a Founders Grant by CTFA in 2010 to support First Stage’s new play development efforts in its world premiere of THE MAGIC BICYCLE earlier this year.

Della Wells creates art with Boys and Girls Club students

noreply@blogger.com (Erica Davis) — Fri, 29 Jul 2011 16:31:00 +0000

Students from the Daniels-Mardak Boys and Girls Club work side by side with Milwaukee collage artist Della Wells, creating a large-scale collage that ponders the question, “What does it mean to fly?” The program runs every Tuesday and Thursday through August 4 and is part of a partnership between First Stage, Milwaukee artist Della Wells and the Daniels-Mardak Boys and Girls Club.

Following the residency, the collage will be exhibited with original work by Della Wells at the Milwaukee Youth Arts Center located at 325 W. Walnut Street, Milwaukee, in an exhibition entitled What it Means to Fly from October 7 - December 31, 2011. The partnership and exhibition are presented in conjunction with the First Stage’s world premiere production DON’T TELL ME I CAN’T FLY, an original play by Y York based on the life and work of Della Wells, October 28 through November 13, 2011.

DON'T TELL ME I CAN'T FLY was part of the Kennedy Center's New Visions/New Voices Biennial Festival last year, find out more HERE.

Find out more about DON'T TELL ME I CAN'T FLY including performance times and ticket information, HERE.

UPDATED - Shave it or Save it!

noreply@blogger.com (Erica Davis) — Wed, 27 Jul 2011 16:17:00 +0000

BEFORE

A pensive Paul Gagne sits and contemplates a twist on a traditional Kid2Kid Fundraising Campaign. Paul has volunteered his golden locks to meet the razor if the Academy students at the Sharon Lynne Wilson Center in Brookfield manage to raise $300 by Wednesday, July 27. However, in an unprecedented turn of events, a second campaign was launched by the Academy students who really don’t want to see the popular Improv Teacher’s hair hit the floor. So now there are two donation boxes out during lunch “Shave Paul’s Head” and “Save Paul’s Head”. Tyne Turner, SLW Headmaster, decreed that the amount needed to be raised to keep Paul from the clippers would be $100 since the campaign has had a third less time to raise awareness.
We’ll see what happens!

AFTER

UPDATEThe "Shave It" camp won. Paul is now without his signature tresses and is thrilled about his new style.
(or is he!?)

First Stage Welcomes New Talent

noreply@blogger.com (Erica Davis) — Fri, 15 Jul 2011 15:51:00 +0000

In anticipation of our 25th anniversary season, First Stage has recruited new talent in nearly every area of the organization. Please join us in welcoming our newest additions!

Katie Weeks

Katie Weeks (formerly Peschel) has joined First Stage this month in the role of Development Director. Prior to First Stage, Katie served as the Vice President of Development for the United Performing Arts Fund where she helped oversee the $9-10 million dollar annual campaign in support of the Milwaukee performing arts community. Katie was included as part of the Business Journal’s Forty under 40 in 2011. She has served on the Board of Directors of Wisconsin Dance Council and Danceworks and is a member of Milwaukee Forum, Professional Dimensions and Milwaukee Urban League. A graduate of the University of Wisconsin – Milwaukee, she earned a double Major in Theatre and Communication. She is originally from Madison, Wisconsin. Welcome to First Stage Katie!

Katie Doral, former Patron Services Manager, has been promoted to General Manager. Katie has been working at First Stage since 2007. As General Manager, she will head Human Resources, serve as the Administrative Director for the Education Department, and oversee all business operations for the organization. From Rochester, Michigan, Katie holds a B.A. in Speech Communication and Theater from Albion College. She is a graduate of The Purple Rose Theatre Apprentice Program and a proud member of the Actor’s Equity Association having received her union card in 2003 while stage managing at The Purple Rose Theatre Company in Chelsea, MI. Congratulations Katie!

Robb Bessey

The First Stage production department recently added Robb Bessey in the position of Technical Director. Rob joins First Stage after three years as the Technical Director of the Milwaukee Repertory Theater. He has over 25 years experience building and supervising construction of scenery for theatre, corporate meetings, fashion shows, displays and trade shows. Robb has built theatrical scenery for Chicago’s Goodman Theatre, the Milwaukee Chamber Theater, Bialystock and Bloom and Next Act Theatre. He has worked on exhibits for Milwaukee County Zoo, Milwaukee Public Museum and Betty Brinn Children’s Museum among other professional projects. A graduate of the University of Delaware Professional Theater Training Program, Robb has taught Technical Theatre at the University of Iowa, Carroll College and Florida State University.

First Stage Theater Academy announces the addition of Katie Cummings as School Year Academy Director. Prior to joining First Stage, Katie held the position of Development and Donor Services Manager with the Greater Milwaukee Foundation. Katie directed First Stage Theater Academy’s Young Company production of “Little Women” earlier this year. She was the Resident Director at St. Joseph High School in Kenosha for eight years and has worked professionally with Bunny Gumbo Productions, The Alumni Players, Racine Youth Players and UWM’s College for Kids. Katie has a B.A. in Theater and Business from Cardinal Stritch University.

Ken Williams

Ken Williams joined the Academy staff as Summer Program Director. Ken is a professional actor and educator. He has taught at First Stage since 2008. Locally he has worked with the Milwaukee Chamber Theatre, Bunny Gumbo Productions, In Tandem Theatre, Optimist Theatre, Boulevard Ensemble, Lake Geneva Theatre Company, Windfall Theatre, Summer Stage of Delafield, Cornerstone Theatre, Cedar Creek Repertory, Racine Prairie School and Milwaukee Public Schools where he helped to create district-wide teaching standards for theatre education. Ken has a B.A. in Theatre from UW-Milwaukee and is a licensed theatre educator in the state of Wisconsin.

Also new to the Academy staff is Jennifer Adams, Early Stages Program Director. Jennifer is a teaching artist and director who will oversee the development of Creative Drama Curriculum for Pre-K through fourth grade. Jennifer earned an M.F.A. in Theatre for Young Audiences from the University of Central Florida and a B.S.Ed. in Theatre Education from Columbus State University of Columbus, Georgia.

Patrick Schley joins the Academy staff as Academy Services Manager. Patrick has been involved with First Stage as a student, intern and supporter since 1999. Recently he held the position of marketing manager for the Milwaukee Repertory Theater. He has also worked with Chicago Shakespeare Theater, Victory Gardens Theater, the Harris Theater for Music and Dance, Lake Geneva Theater Company and others.

The First Stage marketing department recently added Erica Passey in the position of Communications Manager. Erica has over ten years experience in non-profit/arts marketing most recently holding the position of Marketing Director of the Charles Allis Art Museum. She holds a B.A. in Communication Arts from the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

Also new to the marketing team is Lindsey Abendschein, Creative Services Manager. Lindsey holds a B.F.A. with an emphasis in graphic communications from the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh. She has over ten years experience designing for both print and digital media.

Christopher Cuhel also joins the marketing team, taking over the role of Patron Services Manager. Christopher has over five years experience in patron relationship management with such arts organizations as the Milwaukee Repertory Theater, the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra and the Marcus Center for the Performing Arts.

Welcome to First Stage everyone!