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Executive Director
RUFUS DE RHAM Producing Artistic Director SHARON W. HOUK Festival Director CHARLENE A. DONAGHY Videographer/Editing JEFFREY B. SCHLICHTER Production Intern AUDREY TERHUNE Original Music JAMES P. LUURTSEMA Festival Support WOODROW DICK LYNN GELORMINO STEPHEN C. HOUK RANDALE NUNLEY RENEE C. PURDY ISABELLE TERHUNE The Theatre Professionals who read for the festival: SHEILA CURRAN BERNARD ROBIN BUCKALLEW CYNTHIA CHAPMAN LEA DMYTRYCK REED HALVORSON SHARON W. HOUK CHRISTOPHER JONES MJ MONEYMAKER COLLEEN O'DOHERTY DONNA STUCCIO MICHAEL WEEMS DAVID L. WILLIAMS |
Scroll Down for the CuRRENT PRODUCTION STREAM PLAYBILL INFORMATIONThis year's Winning Playwrights areFINAL REST by Victoria Z. Daly (CT) Nov. 6 at 7PM through Nov. 19 at 11:59pm DIRECTIONS by Penny Jackson (NY) Nov. 20 at 7PM through Dec. 3 at 11:59pm AN INVITATION TO MY CIRCUS by Charlene Donaghy (CT) ANALOG by George Kelly (NH) Dec. 4 at 7PM through Dec. 17 at 11:59pm PUT ON A GRUMPY FACE by Reed Halvorson (SC) Jan. 1 at 7PM through Jan. 14 at 11:59pm GOOD MORNING by Anne Lucas (MA) Jan. 15 at 7PM through Jan. 28 at 11:59pm PERMANENT INK by Charlene Donaghy (CT) Jan. 29 at 7PM through Feb. 11 at 11:59pm FOLDED by Bara Swain (NY) Feb. 12 at 7PM through Feb. 25 at 11:59pm EXTENDED PLAY by Ben Marshall (NJ) Feb. 26 at 7PM through Mar. 11 at 11:59pm RELATIVITY AND ME by Len Cuthbert (Ontario, Canada) Mar. 12 at 7PM through Mar. 25 at 11:59pm MOTHERHOOD by Lawrence Aronovitch (Ontario, Canada) Mar. 26 at 7PM through Apr. 8 at 11:59pm SAUL by Colleen O'Doherty (NE) Apr. 9 at 7PM through Apr. 22 at 11:59pm |
This production was made possible
with a generous donation from
THE MARINE FAMILY
CURRENT STREAMED PRODUCTION
SAUL BY COLLEEN O'DOHERTY (NEBRASKA)
Streaming Friday, April 9, 2021 at 7:00pm through Thursday, April 22, 2021 at 11:59pm
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Nancy
LEA DMYTRYCK Bernie BETH STEINBERG Saul MARLA STEINBERG Voice of Saul STELLA LUNA RAY |
COLLEEN O’DOHERTY is a writer based out of Omaha, NE. She has her MFA in play and screenwriting from the University of Nebraska at Omaha. Her plays have been part of many festivals, including: Sister of Experience was produced at the 2020 Stage It! 10-Minute Play Festival at Center for the Performing Arts Bonita Springs. Her play, STRIPPED is set to be part of TheatreMidwest's Fresh Produce Concert Reading Series in October 2020 in Des Moines, IA.
Inspiration: I wrote this for a friend of mine who's been living with AIDS for many years. His strength and commitment to living life and his dedication to helping others similarly affected is bravery personified. The gimmick in the play was from a completely offhand remark he made one day. Synopsis: Nancy is claiming her husband, Saul, has turned into a dog. Bernie is concerned her sister may have gone off the deep end. By the end of their conversation, some secrets are revealed that make Bernie rethink her sister's claim. |
WHO'S WHO
LEA DMYTRYCK (Nancy) Lea needs no introduction to audiences in Litchfield County and beyond. Retired Academic Dean of Forman School, Lea’s theater credits are both varied and long-lived. In 2015, she was lauded with the Best Actress Award both on the state level for CT and for the New England Region of the AACT for her role as Delphi in Winter Flowers. The same role garnered her a nomination for Best Actress in the National Competition. Other memorable roles have included Daisy in Driving Miss Daisy at the Warner, Mama Rose in Gypsy at the Sharon Playhouse and the title role of Mame at Goshen Players. Her most recent favorite was the role of Sister Aloysius in DOUBT at Goshen Players.
Lea has also directed countless productions at the Warner (most recently, CALENDAR GIRLS), Thomaston Opera House and many for the Goshen Players (most recently, IT SHOULDA BEEN YOU). This 54-year member of Goshen Players is the proud mother of three, grandmother of four and, great grandmother of two.
BETH STEINBERG (Bernie) Beth graduated from UConn with a BFA in theatre WAY back in 1978. Since then she has enjoyed holding a variety of positions (actor, director, producer, stage manager) in theaters across Northwestern Connecticut. This year, she was extremely grateful to have had the opportunity to perform in the pre-recorded or “zoom” performances of “Learning Experiences” (Phoenix Stage Company), “The Puzzle with the Piazza” (Goshen Players) and “Saul” (Warner Theatre). Recently retired from the Litchfield School System, she lives in Litchfield with her very talented husband, Maurice, and their ancient, but lovable dog, Anna.
MARLA STEINBERG (Saul) Saul marks Marla’s second stage appearance. She was first bitten by the performance bug when she appeared in Phoenix Stage Company’s “Three Murders and it’s Only Monday”. She is grateful for the opportunity to be on stage again, and wants to thank Sharon for offering her this challenging acting role.
STELLA LUNA RAY (Voice of Saul) Stella comes from a long line of pups in the spotlight, two of her sisters are top Boston terriers in the country. Stella studied acting at HB Studios under the watchful eye of Austin Pendleton. She won the prestigious BONY award in 2019. Stella is a proud member of the Actors Barquity Union.
Lea has also directed countless productions at the Warner (most recently, CALENDAR GIRLS), Thomaston Opera House and many for the Goshen Players (most recently, IT SHOULDA BEEN YOU). This 54-year member of Goshen Players is the proud mother of three, grandmother of four and, great grandmother of two.
BETH STEINBERG (Bernie) Beth graduated from UConn with a BFA in theatre WAY back in 1978. Since then she has enjoyed holding a variety of positions (actor, director, producer, stage manager) in theaters across Northwestern Connecticut. This year, she was extremely grateful to have had the opportunity to perform in the pre-recorded or “zoom” performances of “Learning Experiences” (Phoenix Stage Company), “The Puzzle with the Piazza” (Goshen Players) and “Saul” (Warner Theatre). Recently retired from the Litchfield School System, she lives in Litchfield with her very talented husband, Maurice, and their ancient, but lovable dog, Anna.
MARLA STEINBERG (Saul) Saul marks Marla’s second stage appearance. She was first bitten by the performance bug when she appeared in Phoenix Stage Company’s “Three Murders and it’s Only Monday”. She is grateful for the opportunity to be on stage again, and wants to thank Sharon for offering her this challenging acting role.
STELLA LUNA RAY (Voice of Saul) Stella comes from a long line of pups in the spotlight, two of her sisters are top Boston terriers in the country. Stella studied acting at HB Studios under the watchful eye of Austin Pendleton. She won the prestigious BONY award in 2019. Stella is a proud member of the Actors Barquity Union.
Original Music by JAMES P. LUURTSEMA
It’s Complicated by James P. Luurtsema, © 2021
Videography by JEFFREY B. SCHLICHTER
It’s Complicated by James P. Luurtsema, © 2021
Videography by JEFFREY B. SCHLICHTER
FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR |
From the PRODUCING ARTISTIC DIRECTOR |
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Leaning In
We're leaning in.
I was so thankful to sit in the theatre last week during the first filming of our virtual edition of the International Playwrights Festival. The logistics behind this that our team put in place to keep everyone safe were amazing: the casts rehearsing virtually, the playwrights working with us to be able to stream their works, and the lengths Sharon and her team went to keep the actors as physically distanced as possible. It all went to something magical: theatre happening in the Warner again. One-acts are some of my favorite theatrical experiences. They are concentrated theater, and a way for us to explore new, exciting, and challenging topics. I always liked Bernard Grebanier's explanation that the one-act play "is an elaboration of a single, significant incident," and you will see several significant incidents played out here over the next several months. There are many significant incidents to present here: loss, homecoming, and maybe even murder. It may be different, it may not have a live audience (yet), but the Nancy Marine Studio Theatre was alive and there was a crackle of energy at the Warner once again. As Covid continues to trend upward this is our way of saying "We are still here, and theatre arts are important." This coming year we are planning on bringing at least one theatrical experience to our community a month. Be it these virtual one acts, hybrid performances with an audience and streaming (following guidelines of course), outdoor events, or even a full blown indoor performance, we believe that the show must go on. We will do it safely, with the health of our cast, crew and audience as our highest priority, but we will continue to share the magic with you. Look forward to more from us as we continue to fight for the Warner's future. Thank you for joining us on this journey, your support of the theatre means everything! Sincerely, Rufus de Rham he/him/his Executive Director Special Thanks to our Sponsors
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The Ties That Bind
I am so thankful that you are joining us for our 9th Annual International Playwrights Festival! I am even more grateful that we are actually able to produce these wonderful productions this year in-person from the Nancy Marine Studio Theatre to you in your homes.
During this pandemic, streaming productions on-line has become a lifeline for many theater folk - patrons, performers, directors, designers, technicians…the list goes on and on. These on-line presentations have become a thread for us - while we cannot gather together in a public arena - allowing us to “gather” virtually and have a shared experience. It is one of the many “ties that bind.” This year’s festival theme revolves around that - the things that bring us (or bind us) together and things that may drive us apart. One hundred-fifty productions were accepted this year for consideration and narrowed down to a group of 32 semi-finalists. Our final selection committee reviewed each of the semi-finalist productions, taking into account what we would need to do to safely present each piece while maintaining social distancing requirements to keep our performers and production crews safe. The finalists were chosen this year based on many factors but in large part with the ability to cast and perform these selections with being as covid conscious as possible; with the ever-changing state requirements firmly in mind. In some cases, keeping performers distant during the performance was not possible, as it would have done a grave disservice to the playwright and would have greatly effected the production as a whole. In these instances, actors were selected from the same cohort or family unit to help ensure everyones safely through out the process. Over the next several weeks, we will be completing the recordings of this year’s productions and will be releasing a new selection every other Friday (see complete schedule listed above). It has been exhilarating to be back in the theater again - and I look forward to the day when we can all be in the same room sharing in a production together. Sincerely, Sharon W. Houk she/her/hers Producing Artistic Director |
Previous Streamed Productions
MOTHERHOOD BY Lawrence aronovich (ONTARIO, CANADA)
Streaming Friday, March 26, 2021 at 7:00pm through Thursday, April 8, 2021 at 11:59pm
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Joanne
CAROLIINE AHLMAN Ruth TINA PARZIALE Maureen KATHLEEN TELESCO Celia MARILYN OLSEN Directed by ISABEL CARRINGTON |
LAWRENCE ARONOVITCH became a playwright after a career in the space program. He has written plays about scientists, poets, politicians, tailors, dancers and ex-kings. His most recent play, “One Small Step,” about the moon landing in 1969, was named Best Production at the 2019 InspiraTO Festival in Toronto.
Inspiration: The play is inspired by the story of a friend who found herself in a situation similar to Ruth’s. It seemed to me that the conflict someone like Ruth faces is utterly fundamental to who one is as a human being and was therefore a ripe candidate for theatrical exploration. Synopsis: After years of trying, Ruth is finally pregnant. But then she learns she has cancer. Does she treat the disease or protect her unborn child? A story about motherhood, its selflessness and selfishness, and the constantly changing relationship between parent and child. |
WHO'S WHO
CAROLINE AHLMAN (Joanne )is a senior at Torrington High School. She is a longtime student of the Warner Theatre, appearing in many Young Actors Series productions and four Performance Lab shows. She has also performed at her middle school and high school as well as other local productions. She is an avid reader and art connoisseur and hopes to study art history in college. Caroline has enjoyed her time at the Warner immensely and cherishes every performance. She is forever grateful for the experiences and opportunities the Warner has afforded her. I want to say thank you first and foremost to my parents for never letting me doubt how much they believe in me and how proud they are of me. I also want to thank Isabel for being not only a teacher but a confidante. She taught me everything I know.
MARILYN OLSEN (Celia) is feeling blessed to be back on the stage! Last seen here as Lady Beaconsfield in Jekyll And Hyde, she was also Norma Desmond in SUNSET BOULEVARD, Rosie in MAMMA MIA, Lena Lemont in SINGIN’ IN THE RAIN, Irene Roth in CRAZY FOR YOU, and Blanche Dubois in A STREETCAR NAMED DESIRE. Other recent favorites were at Fairfield Center Stage as Fräulein Schneider in CABARET, Brookfield Theatre for the Arts as Mrs. Lovett in SWEENEY TODD, M’Lynn in STEEL MAGNOLIAS, and The Witch in INTO THE WOODS. Other favorites include Maria Callas in MASTER CLASS, Madam Rose in GYPSY, Mme Thenardier in LES MISERABLES, Carlotta in FOLLIES, Moss in an all-female GLENGARRY GLEN ROSS, Kate Miller in THE COVER OF LIFE and as a founding member of The Lipstick Project, an all-female theatre company, advocacy group and charity. Also a director, some recent productions include SUITE SURRENDER, an all-female THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING EARNEST, and DIAL M FOR MURDER. Marilyn is a physician assistant in Waterbury. Special thanks go to Isabel and Sharon for their support and belief in the magic of theatre as well as their commitment to safety in these trying times. Heartfelt thanks go to this wonderful cast for their talent and honesty. Thanks also to husband John and her two favorite productions, Philip and Ellie, for supporting her creative side. Ta gra agam duit!
TINA PARZIALE (Ruth) Tina got her first taste of theatre magic here at the Warner when she was ten and has been hooked ever since. Favorite past roles include Marjorie in "Extremities," Jean in "Dead Man's Cell Phone," and Rosalind in "Moon Over Buffalo." Having been a P-Labber, Tina is thrilled to be back on stage under the insightful and nurturing hand of Isabel Carrington. She is also the Artistic Director of Backyard Theater Ensemble. A special thanks to Izzy, Sharon, and her cast mates for bringing this script to life!
KATHLEEN TELESCO (Maureen) Kathleen is very excited and grateful to be making a return to the Warner Theatre stage, as it was the first place she performed as a child in shows such as Oliver!, Annie, and The King and I. She has also performed with the Goshen Players in Godspell (Peggy) and with Curtain Call in Joseph and The Technicolor Dreamcoat. Kathleen studied voice and acting throughout college, dabbled after graduating, and ironically was brought back full-force to the theater world during the pandemic through Backyard Theater Ensemble’s performances of A View From the Bridge (Catherine), The Women (Peggy) and Much Adon’t About Nothing (Victoria). She’s very excited for some upcoming projects that are in the works. When she’s not acting, Kathleen is a portrait and wedding photographer and painter.
ISABEL CARRINGTON (Director) has been an actor, director, writer, and performing arts teacher for over 20 years. As Director of Education for the Warner Theatre, Isabel enjoys sharing her passion for the arts with members of the northwest CT community and beyond. She has written four full-length stage plays: You Belong to Me, The Love We Leave Behind, The Beautiful Empire of Ordinary Kings, and Stiff Competition (co-written with Gwendolyn Mileti), and has directed over 100 stage productions. Isabel’s first children's book, Where the Moon Meets the Sky, will be released this spring. "Everything you can imagine is real." - Pablo Picasso
MARILYN OLSEN (Celia) is feeling blessed to be back on the stage! Last seen here as Lady Beaconsfield in Jekyll And Hyde, she was also Norma Desmond in SUNSET BOULEVARD, Rosie in MAMMA MIA, Lena Lemont in SINGIN’ IN THE RAIN, Irene Roth in CRAZY FOR YOU, and Blanche Dubois in A STREETCAR NAMED DESIRE. Other recent favorites were at Fairfield Center Stage as Fräulein Schneider in CABARET, Brookfield Theatre for the Arts as Mrs. Lovett in SWEENEY TODD, M’Lynn in STEEL MAGNOLIAS, and The Witch in INTO THE WOODS. Other favorites include Maria Callas in MASTER CLASS, Madam Rose in GYPSY, Mme Thenardier in LES MISERABLES, Carlotta in FOLLIES, Moss in an all-female GLENGARRY GLEN ROSS, Kate Miller in THE COVER OF LIFE and as a founding member of The Lipstick Project, an all-female theatre company, advocacy group and charity. Also a director, some recent productions include SUITE SURRENDER, an all-female THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING EARNEST, and DIAL M FOR MURDER. Marilyn is a physician assistant in Waterbury. Special thanks go to Isabel and Sharon for their support and belief in the magic of theatre as well as their commitment to safety in these trying times. Heartfelt thanks go to this wonderful cast for their talent and honesty. Thanks also to husband John and her two favorite productions, Philip and Ellie, for supporting her creative side. Ta gra agam duit!
TINA PARZIALE (Ruth) Tina got her first taste of theatre magic here at the Warner when she was ten and has been hooked ever since. Favorite past roles include Marjorie in "Extremities," Jean in "Dead Man's Cell Phone," and Rosalind in "Moon Over Buffalo." Having been a P-Labber, Tina is thrilled to be back on stage under the insightful and nurturing hand of Isabel Carrington. She is also the Artistic Director of Backyard Theater Ensemble. A special thanks to Izzy, Sharon, and her cast mates for bringing this script to life!
KATHLEEN TELESCO (Maureen) Kathleen is very excited and grateful to be making a return to the Warner Theatre stage, as it was the first place she performed as a child in shows such as Oliver!, Annie, and The King and I. She has also performed with the Goshen Players in Godspell (Peggy) and with Curtain Call in Joseph and The Technicolor Dreamcoat. Kathleen studied voice and acting throughout college, dabbled after graduating, and ironically was brought back full-force to the theater world during the pandemic through Backyard Theater Ensemble’s performances of A View From the Bridge (Catherine), The Women (Peggy) and Much Adon’t About Nothing (Victoria). She’s very excited for some upcoming projects that are in the works. When she’s not acting, Kathleen is a portrait and wedding photographer and painter.
ISABEL CARRINGTON (Director) has been an actor, director, writer, and performing arts teacher for over 20 years. As Director of Education for the Warner Theatre, Isabel enjoys sharing her passion for the arts with members of the northwest CT community and beyond. She has written four full-length stage plays: You Belong to Me, The Love We Leave Behind, The Beautiful Empire of Ordinary Kings, and Stiff Competition (co-written with Gwendolyn Mileti), and has directed over 100 stage productions. Isabel’s first children's book, Where the Moon Meets the Sky, will be released this spring. "Everything you can imagine is real." - Pablo Picasso
RELATIVITY & ME BY LEN CUTHBERT (ONTARIO, CANADA)
Streaming Friday, March 12, 2021 at 7:00pm through Thursday, March 25, 2021 at 11:59pm
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Amy
KATIE BRUNETTO Katelin EMILY CREIGHTON Directed by ISABEL CARRINGTON |
LEN CUTHBERT is the founding director of Fridge Door Live Theatre Company. His plays have found the stage in Canada, US & Europe. Reunited Shorts, his collection of 6 short diverse plays about reunions received great reviews at the 2019 London Fringe Festival was published by Dramatic Publishing in 2020. www.LenCuthbert.com
Inspiration: This script was instigated by three things: the 2014 disappearance of Malaysia Airlines 370 and my love of physics, space and flight. And, one day I was riding the Toronto subway and thought, that would make a great location. This script is one of a collection of 7 new short scripts (Faded Shorts) that was to be staged at the 2020 Fringe Festival but has been delayed due to you-know-what. Synopsis: In a subway station, a young mother meets her great grandmother for the first time. |
WHO'S WHO
KATIE BRUNETTO (Amy) teaches high school English and also directs youth productions for the Warner Theatre Young Actors Series. Recent roles include "Wendla" in the Warner Theatre’s production of SPRING AWAKENING and "Mrs. Wormwood" in Landmark Community Theatre's production of MATILDA. Many, many thanks to Isabel, Emily, Sharon, and MC!
EMILY CREIGHTON (Katelin) is a SAG actress in the tri-state area as well as an educator and manager for the Warner Theatre. Emily is so grateful to be able to be back on stage, even if it’s just for a moment! Recently she was in FINAL REST by Victoria Z. Daly, one of the first pieces of the festival. Recent Warner Theater credits also include Echo in EELEMOSYNARY. Emily would like to warmly thank Izzy, Katie, and Sharon for all of their dedication and hard work. It’s not easy putting a production together during a pandemic! I am so honored to finally be on stage with my coworker and dear friend Katie, she’s been an acting inspiration of mine since I was youngx We’ve worked on numerous productions together, but have never shared the stage! Thank you Izzy and Sharon for this opportunity.
ISABEL CARRINGTON (Director) has been an actor, director, writer, and performing arts teacher for over 20 years. As Director of Education for the Warner Theatre, Isabel enjoys sharing her passion for the arts with members of the northwest CT community and beyond. She has written four full-length stage plays: You Belong to Me, The Love We Leave Behind, The Beautiful Empire of Ordinary Kings, and Stiff Competition (co-written with Gwendolyn Mileti), and has directed over 100 stage productions. Isabel’s first children's book, Where the Moon Meets the Sky, will be released this spring. "Everything you can imagine is real." - Pablo Picasso
EMILY CREIGHTON (Katelin) is a SAG actress in the tri-state area as well as an educator and manager for the Warner Theatre. Emily is so grateful to be able to be back on stage, even if it’s just for a moment! Recently she was in FINAL REST by Victoria Z. Daly, one of the first pieces of the festival. Recent Warner Theater credits also include Echo in EELEMOSYNARY. Emily would like to warmly thank Izzy, Katie, and Sharon for all of their dedication and hard work. It’s not easy putting a production together during a pandemic! I am so honored to finally be on stage with my coworker and dear friend Katie, she’s been an acting inspiration of mine since I was youngx We’ve worked on numerous productions together, but have never shared the stage! Thank you Izzy and Sharon for this opportunity.
ISABEL CARRINGTON (Director) has been an actor, director, writer, and performing arts teacher for over 20 years. As Director of Education for the Warner Theatre, Isabel enjoys sharing her passion for the arts with members of the northwest CT community and beyond. She has written four full-length stage plays: You Belong to Me, The Love We Leave Behind, The Beautiful Empire of Ordinary Kings, and Stiff Competition (co-written with Gwendolyn Mileti), and has directed over 100 stage productions. Isabel’s first children's book, Where the Moon Meets the Sky, will be released this spring. "Everything you can imagine is real." - Pablo Picasso
Original Music by JAMES P. LUURTSEMA
Passage in Time by James P. Luurtsema, © 2021
Videography by JEFFREY B. SCHLICHTER
Passage in Time by James P. Luurtsema, © 2021
Videography by JEFFREY B. SCHLICHTER
EXTENDED PLAY BY Benjamin v. marshall (Nj)
Streaming Friday, February 25, 2021 at 7:00pm through Thursday, March 11, 2021 at 11:59pm
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Freddie
KEVIN KNIGHT Robyn YUMEKO STERN Gene KEITH PAUL |
BENJAMIN V. MARSHALL: Warner’s previously produced Benjamin V. Marshall’s DAD’S VISION. His play INCIDENT AT WILLOW CREEK recently won the Stanley Award. Other plays have been produced from Alaska to Australia. Fellowships from NEH, VCCA, and NJSCA. He teaches writing at Middlesex County College and Wagner College. Dramatists Guild Member.
Inspiration: I knew of a local church that was about to be sold. Its fellowship hall held many local events including dances, weddings, and memorials for many communities including LGBT and other diverse communities. The setting is real; the story was imagined from observation. Synopsis: At a party in the fellowship hall of an old church, two deejays: one white and young, the other, Black and mature, clash over the music until a tipsy party goer makes an unusual request. Directed by
KATHERINE RAY
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WHO'S WHO
KEVIN KNIGHT (Freddie) is making his Warner Theatre debut in this production. Recent credits include A DANGEROUS MAN and FENCES (Bono) for Ridgefield Theater Barn; SISTERS (Fedrick Douglass) with Keeler Tavern and RACE (Henry) at TheatreWorks New Milford. He has studied his craft with Doug Taylor “for a very, very long time.” Kevin is the founder and president of The K Group , a market research company and is an avid reader, facilitates race relation encounters and runs a men’s book club in his spare time. This vegan foodie is a father of three (ages 23, 26 and 29), husband to one; a barefoot runner, Tang Soo Do Master and traveler (as much as possible).
YUMEKO STERN (Robyn) Standing Room Only: JAMES AND THE GIANT PEACH (James), SHREK - The Musical (Dragon); Opera House Players: PARADE (Iola Stover), Cirillo Summer Theatre: INTO THE WOODS (Little Red Riding Hood), SWEENEY TODD: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street (Quintet/ Ensemble); West Hartford Community Theatre: BEAUTY AND THE BEAST (Ensemble / Wolf); Landmark Community Theatre-Thomaston Opera House: BILLY ELIOTT The Musical (Debbie Wilkinson); Theatre Guild of Simsbury: THE KING AND I (Princess Ying Yaowalak / Little Eva); Connecticut Theatre Company: GYPSY (Baby Louise); Warner Theatre: PETER PAN (Principal LostBoy); Little Theatre of Manchester: FIDDLER ON THE ROOF (Shprintze). Special Thanks to Katherine Von Loë, Kevin Knight, and Keith Paul!
KEITH PAUL (Gene) There are still some who would call Keith Actor, Artist and Adventurer. Lately, All he knows is that he picks up trees, contemplates the new silences a pandemic can bring and is searching for a good “Dandan Noodles” recipe. Keith has been involved with every year of this festival since its beginning and would like to thank Charlene and Sharon for keeping it going.
AMETHYST (Original Music) is a New England based Drag Queen & Musician at the intersection of hyper pop sparkly goodness and female impersonation. A human Bratz doll created from a perpetual love of y2k/early 2000's pop culture. Born Zachary Taylor, he started performing and creating music at the age of 14. In 2016, he graduated from the The American Musical and Dramatic Academy in NYC where he studied acting and dance, as well as vocal performance.
YUMEKO STERN (Robyn) Standing Room Only: JAMES AND THE GIANT PEACH (James), SHREK - The Musical (Dragon); Opera House Players: PARADE (Iola Stover), Cirillo Summer Theatre: INTO THE WOODS (Little Red Riding Hood), SWEENEY TODD: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street (Quintet/ Ensemble); West Hartford Community Theatre: BEAUTY AND THE BEAST (Ensemble / Wolf); Landmark Community Theatre-Thomaston Opera House: BILLY ELIOTT The Musical (Debbie Wilkinson); Theatre Guild of Simsbury: THE KING AND I (Princess Ying Yaowalak / Little Eva); Connecticut Theatre Company: GYPSY (Baby Louise); Warner Theatre: PETER PAN (Principal LostBoy); Little Theatre of Manchester: FIDDLER ON THE ROOF (Shprintze). Special Thanks to Katherine Von Loë, Kevin Knight, and Keith Paul!
KEITH PAUL (Gene) There are still some who would call Keith Actor, Artist and Adventurer. Lately, All he knows is that he picks up trees, contemplates the new silences a pandemic can bring and is searching for a good “Dandan Noodles” recipe. Keith has been involved with every year of this festival since its beginning and would like to thank Charlene and Sharon for keeping it going.
AMETHYST (Original Music) is a New England based Drag Queen & Musician at the intersection of hyper pop sparkly goodness and female impersonation. A human Bratz doll created from a perpetual love of y2k/early 2000's pop culture. Born Zachary Taylor, he started performing and creating music at the age of 14. In 2016, he graduated from the The American Musical and Dramatic Academy in NYC where he studied acting and dance, as well as vocal performance.
Original Music by AMETHYST
So Hot You’re Hurting My Feelings by Amethyst, © 2021
Everywhere by Amethyst, © 2021
Ratz (feat. Kenya Mone Heart, Mia E. Z'Lay) by Amethyst, © 2021
Videography by JEFFREY B. SCHLICHTER
So Hot You’re Hurting My Feelings by Amethyst, © 2021
Everywhere by Amethyst, © 2021
Ratz (feat. Kenya Mone Heart, Mia E. Z'Lay) by Amethyst, © 2021
Videography by JEFFREY B. SCHLICHTER
FOLDED BY bara swain (NY)
Streaming Friday, February 12, 2021 at 7:00pm through Thursday, February 25, 2021 at 11:59pm
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Bee
ISABEL CARRINGTON Crane REID SINCLAIR Directed by SHARON W. HOUK |
BARA SWAIN’s plays have been staged in 165+ venues in 25 states and abroad. Recent: CHOOSE (Artistic New Directions, NYC); THE WONDER OF YOU (Barrow Group, NYC); TURN! TURN! TURN! (Tom Mann Theatre, Sydney); RESPONSIBLE (The Junction, Dubai); City Theatre National Award Finalist for Short Playwriting for EXTRAORDINARY. With gratitude to Charlene and Warner Theatre for sharing my stories! www.BaraSwain.com
Inspiration: I constructed the journey in response to a piece of artwork by Audrey Higgins entitled “Folded.” The southern voices are an homage to my husband (J.D. Swain, d. 6/09/95), born in Walnut, Mississippi and raised in Memphis, Tennessee. Synopsis: Bee reveals the truth about Crane’s namesake in this new dramedy that explores family, loss and moving on. |
WHO'S WHO
ISABEL CARRINGTON (Bee) has been an actor, director, writer, and performing arts teacher for over 20 years. As Director of Education for the Warner Theatre, Isabel enjoys sharing her passion for the arts with members of the northwest CT community and beyond. She has written four full-length stage plays: YOU BELONG TO ME, THE LOVE WE LEAVE BEHIND, THE BEAUTIFUL EMPIRE OF ORDINARY KINGS and STIFF COMPETITION (co-written with Gwendolyn Mileti). Isabel’s first children's book, “Where the Moon Meets the Sky”, will be released this spring. She is currently working on her next book. "This one’s for you, Daddio. Love, Isa.”
REID SINCLAIR (Crane) is grateful to be back performing on the stage, albeit virtually! He was last seen at the Warner Theatre in the 2014 production of A VIEW FROM THE BRIDGE and more recently as a cast member in the musical DOGFIGHT, which had to be postponed due to COVID-19. A native to the northwest corner of CT, Reid is passionate about the ability the arts have to connect us in our uniquely human experience. He is a member of SAG-AFTRA and is pursuing a career in acting. "Art is not what you see, but what you make others see." - Edgar Degas
REID SINCLAIR (Crane) is grateful to be back performing on the stage, albeit virtually! He was last seen at the Warner Theatre in the 2014 production of A VIEW FROM THE BRIDGE and more recently as a cast member in the musical DOGFIGHT, which had to be postponed due to COVID-19. A native to the northwest corner of CT, Reid is passionate about the ability the arts have to connect us in our uniquely human experience. He is a member of SAG-AFTRA and is pursuing a career in acting. "Art is not what you see, but what you make others see." - Edgar Degas
Original Music by JAMES P. LUURTSEMA
At The Creek by James P. Luurtsema, © 2020, 2021
Videography by JEFFREY B. SCHLICHTER
At The Creek by James P. Luurtsema, © 2020, 2021
Videography by JEFFREY B. SCHLICHTER
PERMANENT INK BY Charlene A. Donaghy (ct)
Streaming Friday, January 28, 2021 at 7:00pm through Thursday, February 11, 2021 at 11:59pm
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Dick
JOSH NEWEY Fester JEFF SAVAGE Directed by SHARON W. HOUK |
CHARLENE A. DONAGHY is an award-winning playwright with plays produced and/or awarded from New York City to Los Angeles, in Canada and Great Britain. Hansen Publishing Group publishes Charlene's Bones of Home and Other Plays. Charlene has been honored with numerous other publications. Charlene is Producer/Tennessee Williams Theater Festival, Festival Director/Warner International Playwrights Festival and teaches playwriting and theatre at University of Nebraska Omaha. She is a founding member Proscenium Playwrights, and a member of 9th Floor Playwrights, The Playwrights Center, and The Dramatists Guild. www.charleneadonaghy.com
Inspiration: I was commissioned to write a short play with two women, a theatre, and a blindfold. That became my play ALWAYS A LINE, nominated for several Broadway World Connecticut theatre awards. The company liked the play so much that they asked if I would write a companion piece, to be produced as a set or separate, with the parameters of two men, a theatre, and something unusual of my choice. The result is a few moments with Dick and Fester, a broom, a plant, and the humor of love and life. Synopsis: The night before Dick’s wedding, his Captain Morgan-loving best man lets loose a secret about the bride-to-be, Rae, and her childhood friend, propelling a drunken Dick to confront her. With the comedic help of the mysteries of life from the ancient, cagey Fester, Dick must ponder whether love, permanently inked within in the very tissue of your life, is more real than plastered fear. |
WHO'S WHO
JOSH NEWEY (Dick) Josh is a local business analyst and performer who has appeared in numerous recent Warner Theatre productions, such as THE ADDAMS FAMILY MUSICAL (Uncle Fester), ASSASSINS (John Hinckley, Leon Czolgosz), EVIL DEAD: THE MUSICAL (Ash), DISASTER! – A 70s DISASTER MOVIE MUSICAL (Tony Delvecchio), and THE IRISH…AND HOW THEY GOT THAT WAY. Other favorite projects include AN ACT OF GOD at TheatreWorks New Milford, Keith Paul’s Secret Shakespeare series, and WAPJ’s Nutmeg Junction radio program.
JEFF SAVAGE (Fester) Jeff is very happy to be back on a real stage in a real theater. He is particularly happy to be back at the Nancy Marine Theater where he played the role of Willy Loman in DEATH OF A SALESMAN, the inaugural presentation in this wonderful venue. Many thanks to Sharon, Charlene, Josh and the crew for allowing me to join them in this beautifully crafted original work. Best wishes to everyone for a safe and healthy 2021. Let's hope that this is the beginning of a return to a normal (whatever that is) and fulfilling life for all of us.
JEFF SAVAGE (Fester) Jeff is very happy to be back on a real stage in a real theater. He is particularly happy to be back at the Nancy Marine Theater where he played the role of Willy Loman in DEATH OF A SALESMAN, the inaugural presentation in this wonderful venue. Many thanks to Sharon, Charlene, Josh and the crew for allowing me to join them in this beautifully crafted original work. Best wishes to everyone for a safe and healthy 2021. Let's hope that this is the beginning of a return to a normal (whatever that is) and fulfilling life for all of us.
Original Music by JAMES P. LUURTSEMA
Experimental by James P. Luurtsema, © 2020, 2021
Videography by JEFFREY B. SCHLICHTER
Experimental by James P. Luurtsema, © 2020, 2021
Videography by JEFFREY B. SCHLICHTER
GOOD MORNING BY ANNE LUCAS (MA)
Streaming Friday, January 15, 2021 at 7:00pm through Thursday, January 28, 2021 at 11:59pm
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Marie
SUSAN HACKEL Alex ERIC LINDBLOM Directed by SHARON W.HOUK |
ANNE LUCAS has built a body of work as a playwright. She has directed and taught for over 30 yrs. She holds an MFA from BU and 2nd MFA in Writing for Stage and Screen from Lesley University. Her plays have been presented in NYC, Boston, Kansas and Greece.
Inspiration: This play was inspired by seeing my own daughters reduce their “me” to a function. I did the same thing when my mother received a huge national award for her teaching. I said what are they going to say “good mother”? It seems to be very hard to see your mother as a person. Synopsis: Alex, Marie’s middle-aged son is shocked when he sees his mother in dishabille with a man. She is over 60 how can she have a boyfriend? Marie lets him know it is the life she has chosen and she is not accountable to her children. |
WHO'S WHO
SUSAN HACKEL (Marie) Susie is thrilled to participate in her second role in the International Playwrights Festival. She has appeared in several Warner Stage productions including MAMMA MIA!, THE FULL MONTY, THE ADDAMS FAMILY(Grandma Addams), FOLLIES, RAGTIME, FIDDLER ON THE ROOF (Yente), and SUNSET BOULEVARD. She has been active in other area theaters as well where she appeared in BIG RIVER(Mrs. Watson), BEAUTY AND THE BEAST, ANNIE, SISTER ACT (Sister Mary Lazarus) and IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE (Ma Bailey). Susie will be retiring as a reading specialist this spring, a position she has held for 24 years. She is grateful to Sharon for including her in this year's festival.
ERIC LINDBLOM (Alex) Eric is an English teacher from Bristol. He is also the host of "Backstage" on WZBG. Eric has appeared in several Warner Theatre productions over the last five years, including SOMETHING ROTTEN (Thomas Nostradamus), AND THEN THERE WERE NONE (Philip Lombard), and HELLO DOLLY (Cornelius Hackl). Eric has also appeared in several Goshen productions, including TITLE OF SHOW (Jeff), IT SHOULDA BEEN YOU (Marty Kaufman), and FIRST DATE (Man #1).
ERIC LINDBLOM (Alex) Eric is an English teacher from Bristol. He is also the host of "Backstage" on WZBG. Eric has appeared in several Warner Theatre productions over the last five years, including SOMETHING ROTTEN (Thomas Nostradamus), AND THEN THERE WERE NONE (Philip Lombard), and HELLO DOLLY (Cornelius Hackl). Eric has also appeared in several Goshen productions, including TITLE OF SHOW (Jeff), IT SHOULDA BEEN YOU (Marty Kaufman), and FIRST DATE (Man #1).
Original Music by JAMES P. LUURTSEMA
Enlightenment by James P. Luurtsema, © 2020
Videography by JEFFREY B. SCHLICHTER
Enlightenment by James P. Luurtsema, © 2020
Videography by JEFFREY B. SCHLICHTER
PUT ON A GRUMPY FACE BY REED HALVORSON (SC)
Streaming Friday, January 1, 2021 at 7:00pm through Thursday, January 14, 2021 at 11:59pm
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Miss Tabitha Feltzer
COLLEEN RENZULLO Lisa ERIN SHAUGHNESSY Directed by SHARON W. HOUK |
REED HALVORSON has called Greenville, SC home for 15 years. He holds an MFA in Playwriting from University of Nebraska Omaha. He is in his 5th year as the HS Theatre teacher at Christ Church Episcopal School where he teaches amazing young artists. His constant inspiration is his 14-year-old daughter, Carly.
Inspiration: It all began as an assignment inspired by a song ("I Love LA") and something on the internet going "viral" (Grumpy Cat). With those in mind, I focused on the silliness of the people behind internet fame. Creating opposing characters, with one hanging on to fame, the other working to be near it. Synopsis: Tabitha has experienced a meteoric rise to celebrity thanks to her cat, Tardar Sauce, the feline affectionately known as “Grumpy Cat.” When Tardar Sauce begins to act differently, she begs her newest assistant, Lisa, to save them both. This energetic play satirizes the world of fleeting celebrity synonymous with pop culture. |
Who's Who
COLLEEN RENZULLO (Miss Tabitha Feltzer) in Torrington and enjoys performing and directing in several local community theater groups. She is excited to be a part of the Warner Theatre International Playwrights Festival and is grateful for the opportunity to perform on stage!! It's not surprising that the members of our theater community have come up with such imaginative ways to continue doing what we love to do in the age of COVID-19!
ERIN SHAUGHNESSY (Lisa) is thrilled to be back on the Warner Stage in the 9th Annual International Playwrights Festival in Put on a Grumpy Face! As a recent graduate of WCSU’s Theatre Performance program, some recent roles include Curley’s Wife in OF MICE AND MEN at LCT, Alice in Desultory Theatre Ensemble’s production of ALICE IN CONCERT Miss Honey in MATILDA THE MUSICAL and Elaine Robinson in THE GRADUATE. Thanks to Sharon, Colleen, and Spookie Carl for a delightful return to the stage after such a long hiatus for theatre.
SPOOKIE CARL (Tardar Sauce) is over the moon excited to be playing Tartar Sauce in the Warner Theatre International Playwrights Festival production of PUT ON A GRUMPY FACE. Carl spends most of his time snuggled under layers of blankets in his cat cave at home with his servants Colleen & Emil Renzullo. Spookie Carl is most well-known for his recurring appearance on Cooking w/Colleen’s YouTube channel. Carl wants to thank the Warner Theatre for offering him the opportunity to showcase his incredible talent. “While it is exceptionally difficult to play a real celebrity, I believe that I am up for the challenge!”
ERIN SHAUGHNESSY (Lisa) is thrilled to be back on the Warner Stage in the 9th Annual International Playwrights Festival in Put on a Grumpy Face! As a recent graduate of WCSU’s Theatre Performance program, some recent roles include Curley’s Wife in OF MICE AND MEN at LCT, Alice in Desultory Theatre Ensemble’s production of ALICE IN CONCERT Miss Honey in MATILDA THE MUSICAL and Elaine Robinson in THE GRADUATE. Thanks to Sharon, Colleen, and Spookie Carl for a delightful return to the stage after such a long hiatus for theatre.
SPOOKIE CARL (Tardar Sauce) is over the moon excited to be playing Tartar Sauce in the Warner Theatre International Playwrights Festival production of PUT ON A GRUMPY FACE. Carl spends most of his time snuggled under layers of blankets in his cat cave at home with his servants Colleen & Emil Renzullo. Spookie Carl is most well-known for his recurring appearance on Cooking w/Colleen’s YouTube channel. Carl wants to thank the Warner Theatre for offering him the opportunity to showcase his incredible talent. “While it is exceptionally difficult to play a real celebrity, I believe that I am up for the challenge!”
Original Music by JAMES P. LUURTSEMA
Kat Groove by James P. Luurtsema, © 2020
Videography by JEFFREY B. SCHLICHTER
Kat Groove by James P. Luurtsema, © 2020
Videography by JEFFREY B. SCHLICHTER
AN INVITATION TO MY CIRCUS BY CHARLENE A. DONAGHY (CT)
Streaming Friday, December 4, 2020 at 7:00pm through Thursday, December 17, 2020 at 11:59pm
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Sheryl Sutton
KAREN ROBINSON Directed by SHARON W. HOUK
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CHARLENE A. DONAGHY is an award-winning playwright with plays produced and/or awarded from New York City to Los Angeles, in Canada and Great Britain. Hansen Publishing Group publishes Charlene's Bones of Home and Other Plays. Charlene has been honored with numerous other publications. Charlene is Producer/Tennessee Williams Theater Festival, Festival Director/Warner International Playwrights Festival and teaches playwriting and theatre at University of Nebraska Omaha. She is a founding member Proscenium Playwrights, and a member of 9th Floor Playwrights, The Playwrights Center, and The Dramatists Guild. www.charleneadonaghy.com
Inspiration: There is a wonderful collective called 365 Women where, each year, 365 playwrights write 365 plays, of any length and topic inspired by a woman of present or history. Actor Sheryl Sutton spoke to me as an iconic avant-garde actor of thee 1960s. I wondered about how and why actors draw people in. And as I was percolating this play, I was also enjoying a "circus" phase where I crafted, and am still writing, plays that have a connection to the circus of old. And, so, Sheryl's seduction was born. Synopsis: Be seduced by an actor as she weaves a spell of bearded ladies, circus clowns, and swords. |
Who's Who
KAREN ROBINSON (Sheryl Sutton) Danbury native Karen Robinson is an actress and singer who is also an educator and licensed massage therapist. She is delighted to again perform in the International Playwrights Festival. When she attends any performance, she seeks to “believe” with childlike wonder. Many thanks to Charlene A. Donaghy and Sharon Houk for this opportunity!
Original Music by JAMES P. LUURTSEMA
French Cafe by James P. Luurtsema, © 2020
Videography by JEFFREY B. SCHLICHTER
French Cafe by James P. Luurtsema, © 2020
Videography by JEFFREY B. SCHLICHTER
ANALOG BY george kelly (nH)
Streaming Friday, December 4, 2020 at 7:00pm through Thursday, December 17, 2020 at 11:59pm
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Jonathan
JONATHAN JACOBSON Chancellor William Davis DICK TERHUNE Emily OLIVIA WADSWORTH Directed by SHARON W. HOUK |
GEORGE KELLY is a playwright living in Concord, New Hampshire. His work has been presented at The Hatbox Theatre, The Players’ Ring, and at The International Playwrights Festival, among other venues. He is a “sometimes” actor, and “oftentimes Director,” and a lover of The Arts. His latest work, “The College Game,” is currently in production.
Inspiration: Emily, a talented writer in my college classroom, wanted to read more of Hemingway’s work. I gave her my copy of one of his novels and said, “This book is old you might have to tape some of the pages.” She looked at me and said: “I love the feel of a book in my hands.” Synopsis: An English Professor believes that “real learning” is under assault as his university rushes to accommodate its “Digital, Millennial” students. He stands alone in his reluctance to embrace change. But his stance places his career in jeopardy. In order to remain a “teacher,” he may have to compromise his “analog” beliefs. |
Who's Who
JONATHAN JACOBSON (Jonathan) returns to the Nancy Marine stage, having appeared here most recently in THE UNEXPECTED GUEST as Inspector Thomas, and in RACE and NOISES OFF. Roles on the Warner main stage include the nine ill-fated members of the D’Ysquith family in A GENTLEMAN’S GUIDE TO LOVE & MURDER, Harry Bright in MAMMA MIA!, Lawrence Jameson in DIRTY ROTTEN SCOUNDRELS, and Sir Evelyn Oakleigh in ANYTHING GOES. Other notable leading roles include Atticus Finch in TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD (Waterbury), Richard Hannay in THE 39 STEPS (Watertown), Sherlock Holmes in BASKERVILLE (New Canaan), Elyot Chase in PRIVATE LIVES (New Milford), John Worthing in THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING EARNEST (Westport), Roger De Bris in THE PRODUCERS and Felix Ungar in THE ODD COUPLE (Thomaston), and Captain von Trapp in THE SOUND OF MUSIC and Thomas Jefferson in 1776 (Stamford).
DICK TERHUNE (Chancellor William Davis) is a professional voice actor whose commercial credits include Little Caesar’s, Ruby Tuesday, Jackson Hewitt, Fisher Investments, Yoplait, Blue Freedom, Pepsi, Verizon and Google; he is also well-known to gamers for his roles in “World of Warcraft: Cataclysm,” “Heroes of Newerth,” “Bard’s Tale IV”, and as the title villain in “Pinstripe.” Currently, he appears in the Cartoon Network animated series “Transformers: Cyberverse” as MacCadam and Autobot Prowl. Most recently, he “appeared” in the Resounding.live online production of “Dracula” as Prof. Van Helsing. In Decmber 2019, he performed a one-man version of “A Christmas Carol” at the Warner’s Nancy Marine Studio Theatre. Some of his favorite roles on-stage include Joseph Pulitzer in “Newsies,” Hertz in “Rock of Ages,” Richard Hannay in “The 39 Steps,” Mr. Applegate in “Damn Yankees,” King Arthur in “Camelot,” John Wilkes Booth in “Assassins,” and Pilate in “Jesus Christ Superstar.” In 2018, Mr. Terhune was inducted into the “Hall of Legends” for his performances with the Lincoln Community Playhouse in his native state of Nebraska.
OLIVIA WADSWORTH (Emily) is overjoyed to be acting in the Playwrights Festival once again, especially considering this year’s unique circumstances. Favorite past roles include Cecily in THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING EARNEST and Susan Hendrix in WAIT UNTIL DARK. She can currently be heard playing a myriad of roles on the radio show Nutmeg Junction, an originally scripted audio theatre program. Thanks to Sharon and the rest of the WSC for keeping the ghost light burning!
DICK TERHUNE (Chancellor William Davis) is a professional voice actor whose commercial credits include Little Caesar’s, Ruby Tuesday, Jackson Hewitt, Fisher Investments, Yoplait, Blue Freedom, Pepsi, Verizon and Google; he is also well-known to gamers for his roles in “World of Warcraft: Cataclysm,” “Heroes of Newerth,” “Bard’s Tale IV”, and as the title villain in “Pinstripe.” Currently, he appears in the Cartoon Network animated series “Transformers: Cyberverse” as MacCadam and Autobot Prowl. Most recently, he “appeared” in the Resounding.live online production of “Dracula” as Prof. Van Helsing. In Decmber 2019, he performed a one-man version of “A Christmas Carol” at the Warner’s Nancy Marine Studio Theatre. Some of his favorite roles on-stage include Joseph Pulitzer in “Newsies,” Hertz in “Rock of Ages,” Richard Hannay in “The 39 Steps,” Mr. Applegate in “Damn Yankees,” King Arthur in “Camelot,” John Wilkes Booth in “Assassins,” and Pilate in “Jesus Christ Superstar.” In 2018, Mr. Terhune was inducted into the “Hall of Legends” for his performances with the Lincoln Community Playhouse in his native state of Nebraska.
OLIVIA WADSWORTH (Emily) is overjoyed to be acting in the Playwrights Festival once again, especially considering this year’s unique circumstances. Favorite past roles include Cecily in THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING EARNEST and Susan Hendrix in WAIT UNTIL DARK. She can currently be heard playing a myriad of roles on the radio show Nutmeg Junction, an originally scripted audio theatre program. Thanks to Sharon and the rest of the WSC for keeping the ghost light burning!
Original Music by JAMES P. LUURTSEMA
Acoustic Meditation by James P. Luurtsema, © 2020
Videography by JEFFREY B. SCHLICHTER
Acoustic Meditation by James P. Luurtsema, © 2020
Videography by JEFFREY B. SCHLICHTER
DIRECTIONS BY PENNY JACKSON (NJ)
Streaming Friday, November 20, 2020 at 7:00pm through Thursday, December 3, 2020 at 11:59pm
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TRIGGER WARNING:
This production will discuss a specific person’s experiences with PTSD as a result of sexual assault. This may be triggering to audience members with similar experiences. Strong use of language also appears in this production and may not be suitable for young audiences. |
Marie
PRISCILLA SQUIERS Social KELLY WHITE Directed by SHARON W. HOUK |
PENNY JACKSON is the recipient of many awards for her writing including a MacDowell Colony Fellowship, The Pushcart Prize, and The Gary Garrison prize for best short drama. Her plays have been produced in New York City, Los Angeles, Dublin and Edinburgh. She is also a screenwriter. Pennybrandtjackson.com
Inspiration: DIRECTIONS was inspired by the Bosnian women refugees who were in my ESL class in New York City. Many shared their stories of war and how several of the military wanted for war crimes were still hiding in plain sight. I was interested in the theme of revenge and can it truly bring redemption? I hoped this play provokes questions. Synopsis: The war is never over. Twenty five years after The Bosnian war, Sofia a Bosnian refugee now living in New York City, recognizes the military general who brutalized her family. She summons, Hana, a young woman from her town to assassinate him. Yet can revenge ever bring redemption? |
Who's Who
PRISCILLA SQUIERS (Marie) is happy to be back on stage at the Warner working with Kelly (her stage daughter in ONCE), Sharon and a wonderful creative team. Recent Warner credits include MAMMA MIA (Donna Sheridan), A GENTLEMAN’S GUIDE TO LOVE AND MURDER (Miss Shingle), ONCE (Baruska), FOLLIES (Solange LaFitte), ASSASSINS (Emma Goldman), RAGTIME (Emma Goldman) and TITANIC (Alice Beane). Among her dramatic credits are SOUVENIR (Florence Foster Jenkins), NOISES OFF (Dotty/Mrs.Clackett), MASTER CLASS (Maria Callas), THE BELLE OF AMHERST (Emily Dickinson), DANCING AT LUGHNASA (Kate), THE ELEPHANT MAN (Mrs. Kendal), A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM (Titania), AS YOU LIKE IT (Rosalind), THE SEAGULL (Nina) and JEFFREY (The Women). Priscilla sends love to her stalwart husband Kyle Minor and their four children, Kieran, Olivia, Arden and Viola.
KELLY WHITE (Sofia) was last seen as Marianne in the Warner Stage Company’s production of DISASTER! A 70's Disaster Movie...Musical. Her previous WSC appearances include Girl in ONCE, Ilse in SPRING AWAKENING, Katherine in Disney’s NEWSIES, Molly in PETER AND THE STARCATCHER, and previous International Playwrights Festivals. Other credits: Missy, THE MARVELOUS WONDERETTES (Little Theatre of Manchester); Alice 2, ALICE IN CONCERT (Desultory Theatre Club); Woman, “Eat Cake” (Desultory Theatre Club); Kelly, THE MEMORY PLAY: An Exercise In Performance (devised by Jeremy Geragotelis).
KELLY WHITE (Sofia) was last seen as Marianne in the Warner Stage Company’s production of DISASTER! A 70's Disaster Movie...Musical. Her previous WSC appearances include Girl in ONCE, Ilse in SPRING AWAKENING, Katherine in Disney’s NEWSIES, Molly in PETER AND THE STARCATCHER, and previous International Playwrights Festivals. Other credits: Missy, THE MARVELOUS WONDERETTES (Little Theatre of Manchester); Alice 2, ALICE IN CONCERT (Desultory Theatre Club); Woman, “Eat Cake” (Desultory Theatre Club); Kelly, THE MEMORY PLAY: An Exercise In Performance (devised by Jeremy Geragotelis).
Original Music by JAMES P. LUURTSEMA
Reflections by James P. Luurtsema, © 2020
Videography by JEFFREY B. SCHLICHTER
Reflections by James P. Luurtsema, © 2020
Videography by JEFFREY B. SCHLICHTER
FINAL REST by Victoria Z. Daly (CT)
Streaming Friday, November 6, 2020 at 7:00pm through Thursday, November 19, 2020 at 11:59pm
Chris
EMILY CREIGHTON Beth ISABEL CARRINGTON Directed by SHARON W. HOUK |
VICTORIA Z. DALY: plays developed/presented at the Actors Studio, Last Frontier, ATHE, Supersound Scotland Radio, Edinburgh Festival, etc. Faculty Member, Dramatists Guild Institute. Founder/Director, 9th Floor writers/actors collaborative, New York City. FINAL REST will be included in a collection of Vicki's work, RAW AND OTHER SHORT PLAYS, to be published by Next Stage Press in December. MFA, NYU/Tisch; A.B./M.B.A., Harvard; Certificat d’Etudes, L’Ecole Jacques Lecoq. www.victoriazdaly.com
Inspiration: I often write comedies about both the absurd and serious ways in which humans grieve. For FINAL REST, I thought about how two very different family members, raised in the same house, might grieve separately (and selfishly,) but perhaps in the process also find what connects them. Synopsis: Chris returns to her empty childhood home to help resentful sister Beth sprinkle Mom’s ashes in the backyard garden. Time’s up: the house will be sold tomorrow. But Chris, unprepared to let go, proposes a plan that threatens to ruin everything. |
WHO'S WHO
EMILY CREIGHTON (Chris) is currently a SAG actress in the tri-state area as well as a teacher for the Warner Theatre Center For Arts Education. Emily has terribly missed spending her days at the Warner with her students. Due to the pandemic, this is the longest she’s ever gone without being in or involved in a theater production. Recent credits include Echo in "Eleemosynary" (Warner Theater) and for film, a featured soldier in Hallmark’s "Holiday For Heroes". Emily would like to warmly thank Sharon, Vicky, and Izzy. “I’m so blessed to have gotten to work with three talented, inspiring, and loving ladies. I only wish this piece were longer. It will always have a special place in my heart, as do each of you.”
ISABEL CARRINGTON (Beth) has been an actor, director, and performing arts teacher for over 20 years. As Director of Education for the Warner Theatre, Isabel enjoys sharing her passion for the arts with many members of the northwest CT community and beyond. She has written four full-length stage plays: "You Belong to Me," "The Love We Leave Behind," "The Beautiful Empire of Ordinary Kings," and "Stiff Competition" (co-written with Gwendolyn Mileti). Isabel has also authored a children's book, "Where the Moon Meets the Sky", which will be released this December. "Many, many thanks to Sharon and Vicki for inviting me to delve into this remarkable work with them. And to Emily, with whom I have the privilege of sharing the stage once again. I couldn't imagine sharing it with anyone else."
ISABEL CARRINGTON (Beth) has been an actor, director, and performing arts teacher for over 20 years. As Director of Education for the Warner Theatre, Isabel enjoys sharing her passion for the arts with many members of the northwest CT community and beyond. She has written four full-length stage plays: "You Belong to Me," "The Love We Leave Behind," "The Beautiful Empire of Ordinary Kings," and "Stiff Competition" (co-written with Gwendolyn Mileti). Isabel has also authored a children's book, "Where the Moon Meets the Sky", which will be released this December. "Many, many thanks to Sharon and Vicki for inviting me to delve into this remarkable work with them. And to Emily, with whom I have the privilege of sharing the stage once again. I couldn't imagine sharing it with anyone else."
Original Music by JAMES P. LUURTSEMA
Etude in C by James P. Luurtsema, © 2020
Videography by JEFFREY B. SCHLICHTER
Etude in C by James P. Luurtsema, © 2020
Videography by JEFFREY B. SCHLICHTER
