Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette

In the Wings: Miss Nelson is Missing. Photos of the set.

2012-02-14T12:01:00.002-05:00

The following photos show the set being built for Miss Nelson is Missing, the second show of the 2011-2012 Civic Youth Theatre season at Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette. These photos of the not-yet-finished set were taken mid-February.

Announcing Youth Classes – Home School: Session 3, Feb. 27-Apr. 9

2012-02-14T08:01:00.000-05:00

Lori Portner, Director of Education and Outreach at Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette, has announced the schedule for Youth Classes – Home School.

These are the classes scheduled for Session 3, Feb. 27-Apr. 9:

Discovering Theatre
* Home School, ages 3-6 years
* Thursdays, 9-10 a.m.
* Students will discover the world of theatre using stories, imagination, games and crafts.
* The cost is $85.00.

Performing Theatre
* Home School, ages 7-11 years
* Thursdays, 10-11 a.m.
* Students will learn to create and perform monologues through games and improvisation.
* The cost is $85.00.

Celebrating Theatre
* Home School, ages 12+ years
* Thursdays, 11 a.m.-noon
* Students will learn about the many aspects of theatre by being cast and performing in a 10-20 minute play.
* The cost is $85.00.

Civic Theatre students will gain an appreciation of theatre arts, as well as a deeper understanding of the importance of teamwork, discipline, focus and commitment, all while making new friends and having fun with their peers. Students will also benefit from an enhanced sense of self-image and confidence while they foster self-expression and develop creative acting skills.

Our curricula are designed to give students the best of both worlds—training in the acting technique plus real experience onstage through “Take a Bow” showcases at the end of each 6-week session performed for family and friends.

To register for a class, visit Civic Theatre's website and download a form, or call 765-423-7529 for assistance.

Announcing Youth Classes: Session 3, Feb. 27-Apr. 9

2012-02-13T12:01:00.003-05:00

Lori Portner, Director of Education and Outreach at Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette, has announced the schedule for Youth Classes.

These are the classes scheduled for Session 3, Feb. 27-Apr. 9:

Imagination Theatre
* Ages 3-4 years
* Tuesdays, 10-10:45 a.m.
* Students will use stories, theatre games and crafts to imagine theatre.
* The cost is $60.00.

Creation Theatre
* Ages 5-6 years
* Tuesdays, 11:15 a.m.-12 p.m.
* Students will create theatre using their imagination, stories and movement games.
* The cost is $60.00.

Exploration Theatre
* Ages 7-8 years
* Tuesdays, 4:30-5:30 p.m.
* Students will explore the world of theatre using improvisation and character creation.
* The cost is $85.00.

Construction Theatre
* Ages 7-11 years
* Wednesdays, 4:30-5:30 p.m.
* Students will construct scenes using monologues, dialogues and improvisation.
* The cost is $85.00.

Production Theatre
* Ages 12+ years
* Thursdays, 4:30-5:30 p.m.
* Students will bring together all the elements of theatre, be cast in a 10-20 minute play and perform at "Take a Bow" showcase
* The cost is $85.00.

Civic Theatre students will gain an appreciation of theatre arts, as well as a deeper understanding of the importance of teamwork, discipline, focus and commitment, all while making new friends and having fun with their peers. Students will also benefit from an enhanced sense of self-image and confidence while they foster self-expression and develop creative acting skills.

The curricula are designed to give students the best of both worlds—training in the acting technique plus real experience onstage through “Take a Bow” showcases at the end of each 6-week session performed for family and friends.

To register for a class, visit Civic Theatre's website and download a form, or call 765-423-7529 for assistance.

Announcing the cast of Pride and Prejudice

2012-02-12T12:01:00.003-05:00

Director Laura Mecsey has announced the cast of Pride and Prejudice, the third Civic Youth Theatre production in the 2011-2012 season at Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette. The script is by Jon Jory, based on the novel by Jane Austen.

The cast includes:

Aaron Newton - Mr. Bennet
Maggie Furtner - Mrs. Bennet
Sarah Weaver - Jane Bennet
Malena de la Fuente - Elizabeth Bennet
Julia Spratt - Mary Bennet
Ariel Laukins - Kitty Bennet
Tori Rosa - Lydia Bennet
Hannah Lazarz - Charlotte Lucas
Mark Krutulis - Mr. Darcy
Nathan Keiller - Mr. Bingley
Erica Gibson - Miss Caroline Bingley
Asher Trout - Colonel Fitzwilliam
Cody Walker - Sir William Lucas
Jascelyn Allen - Lead Dancer/Housekeeper
Nate Breneman - Mr. Collins
Alex Mullenix - Mr. Gardiner
Helen Waeste - Mrs. Gardiner
Adam Mengler - George Wickham
Lexi King - Lady Catherine

Finding a husband is hardly Elizabeth Bennet's most urgent priority; but with four sisters, an overzealous match-making mother, and a string of unsuitable suitors, it's difficult to escape the subject. When the independent-minded Elizabeth meets the handsome but enigmatic Mr. Darcy, she is determined not to let her feelings triumph over her own good sense -- but the truth turns out to be slipperier than it seems. In a society where subtle snubs and deceit proliferate, is it possible for Elizabeth and Darcy to look beyond his pride and her prejudice, and to make the best match of all?

Pride and Prejudice will open Friday, March 30 and run through Sunday, April 1 in the historic Monon Depot Theatre. Friday and Saturday performances begin at 7:30 p.m. The Sunday performance begins at 2:30 p.m.

For more information about the show or to order tickets, call Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette at 765-423-PLAY (7529) or visit its website.

In the Wings: Miss Nelson is Missing. Meet Julie Loftus.

2012-02-10T17:01:00.001-05:00

Julie Loftus plays Miss Nelson and Miss Swamp in Miss Nelson is Missing, the second show of the 2011-2012 Civic Youth Theatre season at Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette. The script is by Jeffrey Hatcher, based on the book by Harry Allard and James Marshall.

Question: Why did you audition for Miss Nelson is Missing?
Julie Loftus: I swam in high school for three years, but I injured my wrist and couldn't swim my senior year. I really needed something to do, and I have always admired my friends who were involved in theatre. I auditioned and I couldn't be happier.

Q: What is the best part about acting in this play?
J.L.: The juxtaposition of the two characters I get to play: Miss Nelson and the transformative Viola Swamp. I get to be evil and witchy as well as nice and simpering. It's excellent.

Q: Who is your favorite teacher?
J.L.: Probably Mrs. Schneider, who teaches biology at Harrison High School, and Mr. Cotten, who is the band director at Harrison High School.

Q: Have you ever acted as bad as the kids in Room 207?
J.L.: Unfortunately, no. I was a complete Goody Two Shoes. I regret that so much because you only live once. I wish I were more of a hooligan in elementary school. But no, I was a complete teacher's pet.

Miss Nelson is Missing opens Friday, February 17 and runs through Sunday, February 19 at the historic Monon Depot Theatre at the corner of 5th Street and North Street in downtown Lafayette. Friday and Saturday shows begin at 7:30 p.m. The Sunday show begins at 2:30 p.m. For more information about the show or to order tickets, call 765-423-PLAY (7529) or visit Civic Theatre's website.

In the Wings: Miss Nelson is Missing. Meet Dean Rhoda.

2012-02-10T12:01:00.001-05:00

Dean Rhoda plays Raymond in Miss Nelson is Missing, the second show of the 2011-2012 Civic Youth Theatre season at Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette. The script is by Jeffrey Hatcher, based on the book by Harry Allard and James Marshall.

Question: Why did you audition for Miss Nelson is Missing?
Dean Rhoda: I wanted to audition for this play because I saw a bunch of other people saying how good their acting skills were, and I want to be like them. I'm starring in Miss Nelson is Missing so I can get started on my acting career.

Q: What is the best part about playing Raymond?
D.R.: He's intelligent. He can be sort of nerdy.

Q: Who is your favorite teacher?
D.R. My favorite teacher is Mrs. Whitchurch. I had her for first grade and third grade at Earhart Elementary.

Q: Have you ever acted as bad as the kids in Room 207?
D.R.: Never.

Miss Nelson is Missing opens Friday, February 17 and runs through Sunday, February 19 at the historic Monon Depot Theatre at the corner of 5th Street and North Street in downtown Lafayette. Friday and Saturday shows begin at 7:30 p.m. The Sunday show begins at 2:30 p.m. For more information about the show or to order tickets, call 765-423-PLAY (7529) or visit Civic Theatre's website.

In the Wings: Miss Nelson is Missing. Meet Ashlyn Short.

2012-02-09T17:01:00.001-05:00

Ashlyn Short plays Phoebe in Miss Nelson is Missing, the second show of the 2011-2012 Civic Youth Theatre season at Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette. The script is by Jeffrey Hatcher, based on the book by Harry Allard and James Marshall.

Question: Why did you audition for Miss Nelson is Missing?
Ashlyn Short: I read the book and I thought it was so funny. I thought it would be even funnier if I was part of the play. So here I am!

Q: What is Phoebe like?
A.S.: She's kind of this shy, nerdy girl that doesn't want to be part of anything. She makes excuses of getting sick while lessons are starting. I get to fake-puke a lot. That's fun.

Q: Who is your favorite teacher?
A.S.: My favorite teacher is Mrs. Rider. She taught fourth grade at Lafayette Christian School.

Q: Have you ever acted as bad as the kids in Room 207?
A.S.: If I have I don't remember it.

Miss Nelson is Missing opens Friday, February 17 and runs through Sunday, February 19 at the historic Monon Depot Theatre at the corner of 5th Street and North Street in downtown Lafayette. Friday and Saturday shows begin at 7:30 p.m. The Sunday show begins at 2:30 p.m. For more information about the show or to order tickets, call 765-423-PLAY (7529) or visit Civic Theatre's website.

In the Wings: Miss Nelson is Missing. Meet Joel Simmons.

2012-02-09T12:01:00.001-05:00

Joel Simmons plays George Jorgenson Jr. in Miss Nelson is Missing, the second show of the 2011-2012 Civic Youth Theatre season at Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette. The script is by Jeffrey Hatcher, based on the book by Harry Allard and James Marshall.

Question: Why did you audition for Miss Nelson is Missing?
Joel Simmons: I wanted to see what Civic is like and see if I would like to do another play.

Q: What is the best part about playing George Jorgenson Jr.?
J.S.: Probably that he yells a lot. He yells "Yes, sir" and "No, sir."

Q: Who is your favorite teacher?
J.S.: Mrs. Miller, my fourth grade teacher at Burnett Creek Elementary.

Q: Have you ever acted as bad as the kids in Room 207?
J.S.: No.

Miss Nelson is Missing opens Friday, February 17 and runs through Sunday, February 19 at the historic Monon Depot Theatre at the corner of 5th Street and North Street in downtown Lafayette. Friday and Saturday shows begin at 7:30 p.m. The Sunday show begins at 2:30 p.m. For more information about the show or to order tickets, call 765-423-PLAY (7529) or visit Civic Theatre's website.

Announcing auditions for Anna in the Tropics

2012-02-08T18:01:00.001-05:00

Director Shannon Sabel has announced auditions for Anna in the Tropics, the fourth staged reading of the 2011-2012 season at Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette. The Pulitzer Prize-winning script is by Nilo Cruz.

Auditions will be held 7-10 p.m. on Sunday, February 19 and Monday, February 20 at Civic Theatre's office, 313 N. 5th Street, in downtown Lafayette.

Those auditioning are asked to arrive at the beginning of the audition time and stay as long as possible. They will be asked to read from the script.

The director seeks seven Latino and Latina actors (4 male, 3 female) of various ages to cast the roles.

Anna in the Tropics is a poignant and poetic play set in Florida in 1929 in a Cuban-American cigar factory, where cigars are still rolled by hand and "lectors" are employed to educate and entertain the workers. The arrival of a new lector is a cause for celebration, but when he begins to read aloud from "Anna Karenina," he unwittingly becomes a catalyst in the lives of his avid listeners, for whom Tolstoy, the tropics and the American dream prove a volatile combination.

The staged reading of Anna in the Tropics will take place Tuesday, March 6 at 7:30 p.m. in the historic Monon Depot Theatre in downtown Lafayette. There will be a question-and-answer session between the audience, cast and director immediately following the reading. Audience members are encouraged to pay what they can for admission.

In the Wings: Miss Nelson is Missing. Meet John Carlson.

2012-02-08T17:01:00.001-05:00

John Carlson plays Elvis in Miss Nelson is Missing, the second show of the 2011-2012 Civic Youth Theatre season at Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette. The script is by Jeffrey Hatcher, based on the book by Harry Allard and James Marshall.

Question: Why did you audition for Miss Nelson is Missing?
John Carlson: I've already done Rodgers and Hammerstein's Cinderella and The Music Man Jr. and I thought, "Maybe I could get into this." And I did.

Q: What is the best part about playing Elvis?
J.C.: It's funny because he's not actually Elvis, he's an Elvis impersonator. He calls Miss Nelson "baby" all the time. I was raised on the song "Return to Sender."

Q: Who is your favorite teacher?
J.C.: Mrs. Mick. She teaches fifth grade at Burnett Creek Elementary.

Q: Have you ever acted as bad as the kids in Room 207?
J.C.: With other kids, but not in front of our teacher.

Miss Nelson is Missing opens Friday, February 17 and runs through Sunday, February 19 at the historic Monon Depot Theatre at the corner of 5th Street and North Street in downtown Lafayette. Friday and Saturday shows begin at 7:30 p.m. The Sunday show begins at 2:30 p.m. For more information about the show or to order tickets, call 765-423-PLAY (7529) or visit Civic Theatre's website.

In the Wings: Miss Nelson is Missing. Meet Delaney Schlesinger-Devlin.

2012-02-08T12:01:00.001-05:00

Delaney Schlesinger-Devlin plays LaVita in Miss Nelson is Missing, the second show of the 2011-2012 Civic Youth Theatre season at Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette. The script is by Jeffrey Hatcher, based on the book by Harry Allard and James Marshall.

Question: Why did you audition for Miss Nelson is Missing?
Delaney Schlesinger-Devlin: I auditioned because I really wanted to be part of Civic Theatre; I've never been here. It's a chance to be around kids, so you can have a lot of fun with it.

Q: What is the best part about playing LaVita?
D.S-D.: I have some really sassy lines, like "Do it."

Q: Who is your favorite teacher?
D.S-D.: Mrs. Webb, who teaches English at Battle Ground Middle School.

Q: Have you ever acted as bad as the kids in Room 207?
D.S-D.: Truthfully, yes. When I was little, I was at a sleepover at church. My friends and I ran a lot because of the soda we drank. We ended up playing Duck, Duck, Goose. Outside. In our pajamas. For an hour.

Miss Nelson is Missing opens Friday, February 17 and runs through Sunday, February 19 at the historic Monon Depot Theatre at the corner of 5th Street and North Street in downtown Lafayette. Friday and Saturday shows begin at 7:30 p.m. The Sunday show begins at 2:30 p.m. For more information about the show or to order tickets, call 765-423-PLAY (7529) or visit Civic Theatre's website.

In the Wings: Miss Nelson is Missing. Meet Annie Furtner.

2012-02-07T17:01:00.003-05:00

Annie Furtner plays Kimberly in Miss Nelson is Missing, the second show of the 2011-2012 Civic Youth Theatre season at Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette. The script is by Jeffrey Hatcher, based on the book by Harry Allard and James Marshall.

Question: Why did you audition for Miss Nelson is Missing?
Annie Furtner: My friend Adam Mengler is the stage manager.

Q: What is the best part about playing Kimberly?
A.F.: Probably the fact that I get to be a kindergartner again. I'm in ninth grade now. Kimberly wants to be a supermodel, so she's like, "The capital of everything is Paris because all the supermodels live in Paris, so if you're not in Paris you're basically not cool."

Q: Who is your favorite teacher?
A.F.: My favorite teacher is my eighth grade English teacher, Mr. Shaeffer. She teaches at West Side.

Q: Have you ever acted as bad as the kids in Room 207?
A.F.: No. Maybe not that bad. One time, though, we had a substitute in math and we were pretty rowdy.

Miss Nelson is Missing opens Friday, February 17 and runs through Sunday, February 19 at the historic Monon Depot Theatre at the corner of 5th Street and North Street in downtown Lafayette. Friday and Saturday shows begin at 7:30 p.m. The Sunday show begins at 2:30 p.m. For more information about the show or to order tickets, call 765-423-PLAY (7529) or visit Civic Theatre's website.

In the Wings: Miss Nelson is Missing. Meet Maggie Pearl.

2012-02-07T12:01:00.001-05:00

Maggie Pearl plays Mouse in Miss Nelson is Missing, the second show of the 2011-2012 Civic Youth Theatre season at Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette. The script is by Jeffrey Hatcher, based on the book by Harry Allard and James Marshall.

Question: Why did you audition for Miss Nelson is Missing?
Maggie Pearl: In third grade, I was in a high school play because they needed little kids, so I did that and I really liked it. And then I got into acting, and I really liked it. My dad got an e-mail about the tryout, and I tried out because I thought it would be fun.

Q: What is the best part about playing Mouse?
M.P.: I get to be this tomboy. I get in fights, which is fun. Mouse doesn’t win the fights, though.

Q: Who is your favorite teacher?
M.P.: I have liked all my teachers. In middle school, my favorite teacher is either Mrs. Webb, who teaches English, or Mrs. Bratcher, who teaches math. They are at Battle Ground Middle School.

Q: Have you ever acted as bad as the kids in Room 207?
M.P.: No.

Miss Nelson is Missing opens Friday, February 17 and runs through Sunday, February 19 at the historic Monon Depot Theatre at the corner of 5th Street and North Street in downtown Lafayette. Friday and Saturday shows begin at 7:30 p.m. The Sunday show begins at 2:30 p.m. For more information about the show or to order tickets, call 765-423-PLAY (7529) or visit Civic Theatre's website.

In the Wings: Miss Nelson is Missing. Meet Jacob Holley.

2012-02-06T17:01:00.005-05:00

Jacob Holley plays Detective McSmogg in Miss Nelson is Missing, the second show of the 2011-2012 Civic Youth Theatre season at Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette. The script is by Jeffrey Hatcher, based on the book by Harry Allard and James Marshall.

Question: Why did you audition for Miss Nelson is Missing?
Jacob Holley: I've been looking forward to this. I like the book, and in fifth grade I had a teacher named Miss Nelson.

Q: What is the best part of playing Detective McSmogg?
J.H.: He's kind of a fruitcake, kind of nuts. He says things like "thing-a-ma-jiggies" and "doodads."

Q: Who is your favorite teacher?
J.H.: Probably Miss Roe, my second grade teacher at Wea Ridge Elementary.

Q: Have you ever acted as bad as the kids in Room 207?
J.H.: Sometimes.

Miss Nelson is Missing opens Friday, February 17 and runs through Sunday, February 19 at the historic Monon Depot Theatre at the corner of 5th Street and North Street in downtown Lafayette. Friday and Saturday shows begin at 7:30 p.m. The Sunday show begins at 2:30 p.m. For more information about the show or to order tickets, call 765-423-PLAY (7529) or visit Civic Theatre's website.

In the Wings: Miss Nelson is Missing. Meet Taylor Bundy.

2012-02-06T12:01:00.007-05:00

Taylor Bundy plays Principal Humleker in Miss Nelson is Missing, the second show of the 2011-2012 Civic Youth Theatre season at Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette. The script is by Jeffrey Hatcher, based on the book by Harry Allard and James Marshall.

Question: Why did you audition for Miss Nelson is Missing?
Taylor Bundy: It's going to be one of my last shows at Civic Theatre, definitely my last show with Laurie Russell, the director, before I leave good old Indiana.

Q: What is the best part about playing Principal Humleker?
T.B.: I get to say stupid things like "Hubba, hubba" all the time.

Q: Who is your favorite teacher?
T.B.: Probably Miss Anderson. She's awesome. She taught English at Wea Ridge Middle School.

Q: Have you ever acted as bad as the kids in Room 207?
T.B.: I got written up a lot for being not focused. I walked around a lot while kids were doing homework; I was a little ADD.

Miss Nelson is Missing opens Friday, February 17 and runs through Sunday, February 19 at the historic Monon Depot Theatre at the corner of 5th Street and North Street in downtown Lafayette. Friday and Saturday shows begin at 7:30 p.m. The Sunday show begins at 2:30 p.m. For more information about the show or to order tickets, call 765-423-PLAY (7529) or visit Civic Theatre's website.

Share Your Thoughts: Rabbit Hole

2012-02-05T17:01:00.000-05:00

Now that Rabbit Hole has closed, share your thoughts about the production.

What will you remember about the show? What were your thoughts about the performances? The story and theme? The design? What were the standout moments?

In the Wings: Miss Nelson is Missing. Meet Laurie Russell.

2012-02-05T12:01:00.001-05:00

Laurie Russell directs Miss Nelson is Missing, the second show of the 2011-2012 Civic Youth Theatre season at Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette. The script is by Jeffrey Hatcher, based on the book by Harry Allard and James Marshall.

Question: Why did you want to direct Miss Nelson is Missing?
Laurie Russell: I've always loved the book. I remember reading it to my children; they thought it was great. The playwright did a good job of taking about 10 pages of picture book and turning it into an hour-long play. It's a lot of fun, with great parts for the kids. They can have fun playing the parts they're playing.

Q: When and where is the play set?
L.R.: The play is set in the present in a school that could be in Anytown, U.S.A. There is a class of horrible children taught by a lovely, sweet teacher named Miss Nelson. One day Miss Nelson is not there, and she is replaced by Miss Swamp, who whips the kids into shape. The kids have to find Miss Nelson because they think something has happened to her.

Q: What is the best part of directing Miss Nelson is Missing?
L.R.: It's a lot of fun action and the kids are great.

Q: Who was your favorite teacher?
L.R.: I had a fabulous teacher in college for an ancient drama class, but I don't remember her name. She made it so fascinating. I also had a good first grade teacher, but I can't remember her name either.

Q: Did you ever act as bad as the kids in Room 207?
L.R.: Yes. I was evil in school. I spent so much time in the office, they used to let me answer the phones. True story.

Miss Nelson is Missing opens Friday, February 17 and runs through Sunday, February 19 at the historic Monon Depot Theatre at the corner of 5th Street and North Street in downtown Lafayette. Friday and Saturday shows begin at 7:30 p.m. The Sunday show begins at 2:30 p.m. For more information about the show or to order tickets, call 765-423-PLAY (7529) or visit Civic Theatre's website.

Photos from the February 2012 New Volunteer Orientation

2012-02-04T12:36:00.007-05:00

Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette held its New Volunteer Orientation on Saturday, February 4 from 10 a.m. to 12 noon at the historic Monon Depot Theatre in downtown Lafayette. Nine new volunteers attended.

Tom Moran spoke about working on construction crews and the role of the master carpenter.

Gerriann Fish showed off the costume shop and spoke about being a costumer on productions.

Steve Koehler and Stacy Walker spoke about Civic opportunities as box officer manager, house manager, ushers and office volunteers.

Kriz Kazmierczak showed the light and sound booth and spoke about designing lights and sound, as well as running the sound board and lightboard and serving as a stage manager.

John David Collier and Larry Sommers spoke on the stage about being a producer, director and actor.

Thanks to everyone who attended, regardless of whether you are new to Civic Theatre or if you shared your experiences.

Civic Theatre yard sale on February 18

2012-02-04T12:01:00.002-05:00

Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette will host a yard sale Saturday, February 18 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the historic Monon Depot Theatre, 320 N. 5th Street in downtown Lafayette.

You'll find unique items including costume pieces, scripts, furniture, hats, wigs, formal wear and even wedding dresses.

Popcorn and refreshments will be served.

All proceeds will benefit Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette.

Announcing Adult Classes – March 2012

2012-02-03T12:01:00.002-05:00

Lori Portner, Director of Education and Outreach at Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette, has announced the schedule for Adult Classes in March 2012:

Acting 101 for Adults
* Saturday, March 3, 9 a.m.-noon
* Tired of being in the shadows? Find the inner actor and, in turn, inner confidence.
* The cost is $25.00.

Team Building
* Saturday, March 10, 9 a.m.-noon
* Collaboration is important from the workplace to the sports field to the home. Learn theatre skills that will help you collaborate and build a winning team.
* The cost is $25.00.

To register for a class, visit Civic Theatre's website and download a form, or call 765-423-7529 for assistance.

Buy One, Get One Free tickets to Rabbit Hole

2012-02-02T12:01:00.000-05:00

"This coming weekend is filled with entertainment, not to mention sporting, opportunities. With that in mind we would like to help you choose how to spend Saturday evening and Sunday afternoon.

"Announcing Buy One, Get One Free tickets to 'Rabbit Hole.' There is no code, no special message, just buy your tickets. We are immensely proud of this tremendous show and spectacular cast.

"Tickets are available at the box office, by phone 765-423-7529 and online at http://lafayettecivic.tix.com/

"I hope to see you at the theatre!"

-Steven Koehler
Managing Director, Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette

Applications for the Justin M. Newell Scholarship are due in May

2012-02-01T12:01:00.005-05:00

Civic Youth Theatre and Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette are accepting applications for the annual Justin M. Newell Scholarship. The $500 scholarship is awarded to recognize the contributions and achievements of a college-bound graduating senior.

Any high school senior who has been or currently is a Civic Youth Theatre participant is eligible to apply. Applicants must fill out an application, which is available at the Civic Theatre office at 313 N. 5th Street. Applicants may also download a copy of the application from http://www.lafayettecivic.org/. Two letters of recommendation are required. All applications must be received by 4 p.m. on May 4, 2012.

Applicants will be contacted by the three-member review panel for interviews. The recipient will be notified no later than June 1.

About Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette

For 80 seasons, Civic Theatre has been part of Lafayette's social life. It has grown and thrived entirely through the efforts of those hundreds and hundreds of people who generously have given their time and talents.

The Mission of Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette is to enhance the artistic and cultural environment of Greater Lafayette through theatrical productions and educational opportunities.

Civic Youth Theatre Spring Break Camp: Bullies Anonymous - A Musical

2012-01-30T12:01:00.002-05:00

Civic Youth Theatre is holding its inaugural Spring Break Camp in March 2012, coinciding with spring break sessions for Lafayette School Corporation and Tippecanoe County School Corporation.

The weeklong intensive Spring Break camp follows the same format as the popular 4-Week Intensive Summer Camp: participants will have lessons in voice, movement and acting while rehearsing the script Bullies Anonymous - A Musical. All camp participants will be cast in a full production of the show and perform at 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 30.

Synopsis: It's the weekly meeting of Bullies Anonymous, and bullies (and ex-bullies) from all over are sharing their stories. Well, when they're not trying to bully their way out of it. Between the silly jokes and songs are serious lessons about different kinds of bullying, what makes a bully and what happens to them, and how to deal with bullying.

Spring Break Camp runs March 26-30, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the historic Monon Depot Theatre at the corner of 5th Street and North Street in downtown Lafayette. The fee is $150.00. Before and After Care are available for an additional fee; camp attendees will be provided a safe, controlled environment to assist busy parents.

For more information about registering for the Spring Break Camp of Bullies Anonymous - A Musical, visit Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette's website or call 765-423-PLAY (7529).

Rabbit Hole: Photos of the finalized set

2012-01-27T12:01:00.027-05:00

These photos show the set of Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette's production of Rabbit Hole, which runs Jan. 20 through Feb. 5 at the historic Monon Depot Theatre.

Set Design: Craig Martin
Set Construction: Dan Becker, Amy Van Epps
Set Decor: Sonya Basaran, Heather Owen, Alice Schwind

The Review is In: Rabbit Hole

2012-01-26T05:31:00.000-05:00

The review of Rabbit Hole was published in the Journal & Courier, Lafayette and West Lafayette's daily newspaper. It was written by Amy Long. You can read it here.

Rabbit Hole has two more weekends of performances at the historic Monon Depot Theatre at the corner of 5th Street and North Street in downtown Lafayette. Friday and Saturday shows are at 7:30 p.m., Sunday shows are at 2:30 p.m.

To order tickets, call Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette at 765-423-PLAY (7529) or visit its website.

Share Your Thoughts: Farragut North

2012-01-24T21:30:00.004-05:00

The staged reading of Farragut North took place tonight at 7:30 p.m. at the historic Monon Depot Theatre in downtown Lafayette with 28 people in attendance.

As with other staged readings in the series, it was followed by a question-and-answer session between the audience, the cast and the director, Neil Radtke.

Did you attend the staged reading? What did you think about the characters, the plot and other elements of the script? What were some of the high points? What will you remember most about this staged reading?

Announcing the cast of Red Hot and Cole

2012-01-24T12:01:00.002-05:00

Director Kate Walker has announced the cast of Red Hot and Cole, the fourth MainStage production in the 2011-2012 season at Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette. The book is by James Bianchi, Muriel McAuley and Randy Strawderman. The music and lyrics are by Cole Porter.

The cast includes:

Trish Anderson - Bella Spewack, Dancer
Liz Bruni - Dorothy Parker, Sara Murphy, Dancer
Zack Campbell - Doctor, Photographer, Dancer
Mary Anne Cecil - Hedda Hopper
Timothy Devery - Moss Hart, Sam Katz, Dancer
David Dietz - Cole Porter
Bill Knapp - Noel Coward, Clifton Webb, English Soldier
Linnea Leatherman - Ethel Merman
Craig Martin - Monty Woolley
Ashley McElroy - Ada "Bricktop" Smith, Dancer
Heather Ocny - Waitress, Reporter, Socialite
Chelsea Robinson - Elsa Maxwell
Steve Scherer - George Kauffman, Ray Goetz, Dancer
Jessica Searight - Irene Castle, Dancer
Nate Shumate - Paul, Dancer
Lori Stout - Waitress, Socialite, Soloist
Nelson Tilley - Head Waiter
Amanda Walker - Starlet, Dancer
Mary Beth Weckerlin - Linda Porter

Red Hot and Cole will run Friday, March 2 through Sunday, March 18 at the historic Monon Depot Theatre at the corner of 5th Street and North Street in downtown Lafayette. Friday and Saturday evening performances will begin at 7:30 p.m.; Sunday afternoon performances will begin at 2:30 p.m. Tickets are $18 per person, $15 for seniors and $10 for youth age 18 and under.

For more information about the show or to order tickets, call 765-423-PLAY (7529) or visit Civic Theatre's website.

Announcing the New Volunteer Orientation: Saturday, February 4

2012-01-23T12:01:00.002-05:00

If you've ever had questions about Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette - how to get involved, what opportunities are available or anything else - you now have an opportunity to ask people in the know.

Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette will host a New Volunteer Orientation on Saturday, February 4 at the historic Monon Depot Theatre in downtown Lafayette.

Civic veterans will speak about volunteering their time with Civic as directors, actors, producers, designers, crew members, box office personnel and ushers, committee members and more.

The New Volunteer Orientation is free and open to people of all ages. It will be held from 10 a.m. to 12 noon at the historic Monon Depot Theatre on the corner of 5th Street and North Street in downtown Lafayette.

Walk-ins are welcome, or you can confirm your interest in attending by calling Civic Theatre at 765-423-PLAY (7529).

Announcing auditions for Pride and Prejudice

2012-01-22T12:01:00.002-05:00

Director Laura Mecsey has announced auditions for Pride and Prejudice, the third production of the 2011-2012 Civic Youth Theatre season at Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette.

Auditions will be held Sunday, February 5 from 2-4 p.m., and Monday, February 6 from 6:30-8:30 p.m. in the Civic Theatre office at 313 N. 5th Street in downtown Lafayette.

Those auditioning are asked to arrive at the start of the audition time and remain for the full two hours. They will be asked to prepare a 1-minute monologue tailored to the character they're auditioning to play.

The director seeks several actors between the ages of 13 and 18. The director also seeks a stage manager/assistant director and crew members for the production.

Finding a husband is hardly Elizabeth Bennet's most urgent priority; but with four sisters, an overzealous match-making mother, and a string of unsuitable suitors, it's difficult to escape the subject. When the independent-minded Elizabeth meets the handsome but enigmatic Mr. Darcy, she is determined not to let her feelings triumph over her own good sense -- but the truth turns out to be slipperier than it seems. In a society where subtle snubs and deceit proliferate, is it possible for Elizabeth and Darcy to look beyond his pride and her prejudice, and to make the best match of all?

Pride and Prejudice will open Friday, March 30 and run through Sunday, April 1 in the historic Monon Depot Theatre. Friday and Saturday performances begin at 7:30 p.m. Sunday performances begin at 2:30 p.m.

For more information about the show or to order tickets, call Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette at 765-423-PLAY (7529) or visit its website.

Opening Night for Rabbit Hole: production photos

2012-01-20T12:01:00.002-05:00

Thanks to Kris Kazmierczak for taking these production photos.

Rabbit Hole opens tonight, Jan. 20 at 7:30 p.m. in the historic Monon Depot Theatre at the corner of 5th Street and North Street in downtown Lafayette. The show will run three consecutive weekends through Sunday, Feb. 5.

To order tickets, call Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette at 765-423-PLAY (7529) or visit its website.

In the Wings: Rabbit Hole. Preview on jconline.com

2012-01-20T10:30:00.002-05:00

A preview of Rabbit Hole appears online at http://www.jconline.com/, the website of the Journal & Courier, Lafayette and West Lafayette's daily newspaper. It was written by Tim Brouk.

You can read the preview here.

Rabbit Hole opens Friday, January 20 and runs three consecutive weekends through Sunday, February 5 at the historic Monon Depot Theatre at the corner of 5th Street and North Street in downtown Lafayette.

For more information about the show or to order tickets, call Civic Theatre's office at 765-423-PLAY (7529) or visit Civic Theatre's website.

Civic Theatre on YouTube: Rabbit Hole

2012-01-18T12:01:00.002-05:00

The following preview of Rabbit Hole, the third production in the 2011-2012 season at Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette, has been added to the Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette channel on YouTube.

Thanks to Steve Scherer for creating this video.

Rabbit Hole opens Friday, Jan. 20 and runs through Sunday, Feb. 5 at the historic Monon Depot Theatre in downtown Lafayette. For more information about the show or to order tickets, call Civic Theatre at 765-423-PLAY (7529) or visit its website.

The Staged Reading Series: Farragut North on January 24

2012-01-17T12:01:00.001-05:00

The third script in the 2011-2012 Staged Reading Series at Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette is Farragut North by Beau Willimon.

Neil Radtke directs the cast, which includes Zach Campbell, David Dietz, Bill Knapp, Craig Martin, Aaron Newton, Jessica Searight and Kristen Singleton.

Stephen Bellamy is a wunderkind press secretary who has built a career that men twice his age would envy. During a tight presidential primary race, Stephen's meteoric rise falls prey to the backroom politics of more seasoned operatives. Farragut North is a timely story about the lust for power and the costs one will endure to achieve it.

The staged reading of Farragut North will take place Tuesday, January 24 at 7:30 p.m. in the historic Monon Depot Theatre in downtown Lafayette. There will be a question-and-answer session between the audience, cast and director immediately following the reading. Audience members are encouraged to pay what they can for admission.

To learn more about Farragut North or the Staged Reading Series, call Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette at 765-423-7529 or visit its website.

In the Wings: Rabbit Hole. Photos of the set.

2012-01-15T12:01:00.000-05:00

The following photos show the set being built for Rabbit Hole, the third show of the 2011-2012 MainStage season at Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette. These photos were taken in mid-January.

In the Wings: Rabbit Hole. Meet Kate Martin.

2012-01-13T12:01:00.001-05:00

Kate Martin plays Becca in Rabbit Hole, the third show of the 2011-2012 MainStage season at Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette. The Pulitzer Prize-winning script is by David Lindsay-Abaire.

Question: Why did you audition for Rabbit Hole?
Kate Martin: I love stories like this. It is the kind of show a serious actor wants to be part of. It's not every day you get to do something you're not used to. The story is so touching that I wanted to be part of it right away.

Q: Who is Becca and what is her story?
K.M.: She is the mother of Danny. Her story basically is trying to get through day after day after the death of her son. It's a struggle, it's different every day. It's trying to figure out where to go from here.

Q: What do you think an audience will take away from this production of Rabbit Hole?
K.M.: How different people deal with grief differently. I think everyone will come out of this show having a favorite character; I think it will touch everybody.

Rabbit Hole opens Friday, January 20 and runs three weekends through Sunday, February 5 at the historic Monon Depot Theatre at the corner of 5th Street and North Street in downtown Lafayette. Friday and Saturday shows begin at 7:30 p.m. Sunday shows begin at 2:30 p.m. For more information about the show or to order tickets, call 765-423-PLAY (7529) or visit Civic Theatre's website.

In the Wings: Rabbit Hole. Meet Neil Radtke.

2012-01-12T12:01:00.002-05:00

Neil Radtke plays Howie Corbett in Rabbit Hole, the third show of the 2011-2012 MainStage season at Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette. The Pulitzer Prize-winning script is by David Lindsay-Abaire.

Question: Why did you audition for Rabbit Hole?
Neil Radtke: When the season was announced, Howie was the one role I really wanted to play. I'm the father of a young child and the emotion of the script and the power of what is portrayed onstage is something I really wanted to try to tackle.

Q: Who is Howie and what is his story?
N.R.: Howie Corbett is the father of Danny, who is killed eight months prior to the play's opening scene. Emotionally he is an absolute wreck. He is trying to hold onto any and all shreds of his son, whether it's a smudgy fingerprint on a door, a painting, or a home movie.

Q: What will the audience will most remember about this production of Rabbit Hole?
N.R.: We have a fantastic set and I love it, but the emotion of the play and what each of these characters are dealing with because of this loss, you could almost do it in a vacuum and the emotion will still come through. I think the audience at the end will think, "Wow, I've watched something that has affected me." I think every audience member will attach themselves to one of the characters. Each of them have different ways of dealing with a very significant loss.

Rabbit Hole opens Friday, January 20 and runs three weekends through Sunday, February 5 at the historic Monon Depot Theatre at the corner of 5th Street and North Street in downtown Lafayette. Friday and Saturday shows begin at 7:30 p.m. Sunday shows begin at 2:30 p.m. For more information about the show or to order tickets, call 765-423-PLAY (7529) or visit Civic Theatre's website.

In the Wings: Rabbit Hole. Meet Mary Anne Cecil.

2012-01-11T12:01:00.004-05:00

Mary Anne Cecil plays Nat in Rabbit Hole, the third show of the 2011-2012 MainStage season at Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette. The Pulitzer Prize-winning script is by David Lindsay-Abaire.

Question: Why did you want to be part of Rabbit Hole?
Mary Anne Cecil: Part of the draw was getting more involved with Civic since I moved over this way. It's the closest community theater to where I am now. I've seen shows here and Civic is a very high-quality community theater operation. And then there's the story itself. I like the story, I like the character of Nat and I thought I could contribute to that.

Q: Who is Nat and what is her story?
M.A.C.: Nat is the mother of two daughters. She lost a son about 11 years ago. She isn't estranged from her daughters, but they don't have the close relationship she would like for them to have. That's her goal: to bring her and her daughters closer together. Sometimes she goes about it in ways that are less than what would seem caring to the daughters, but that's just the way Nat is.

Q: What will the audience find most engaging about this production of Rabbit Hole?
M.A.C.: I think what they'll find most engaging is the roller coaster of emotions. They will not be prepared for what will happen. They will cry. And they will laugh. And they'll go away from this thinking how fortunate they are to not be in the shoes of Howie and Becca, played by Neil Radtke and Kate Martin. Or if they have been in those shoes, then they'll relive a little bit of that and enjoy the memories that they have.

Rabbit Hole opens Friday, January 20 and runs three weekends through Sunday, February 5 at the historic Monon Depot Theatre at the corner of 5th Street and North Street in downtown Lafayette. Friday and Saturday shows begin at 7:30 p.m. Sunday shows begin at 2:30 p.m. For more information about the show or to order tickets, call 765-423-PLAY (7529) or visit Civic Theatre's website.

In the Wings: Rabbit Hole. Meet Elizabeth Nolan Brown.

2012-01-10T12:01:00.000-05:00

Elizabeth Nolan Brown plays Izzy in Rabbit Hole, the third show of the 2011-2012 MainStage season at Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette. The Pulitzer Prize-winning script is by David Lindsay-Abaire.

Question: Why did you audition for Rabbit Hole?
Elizabeth Nolan Brown: I hadn't read the entire play until after the auditions, but even at auditions with the sides I read for Izzy, I immediately thought, "Oh my gosh, I hope I get this role" because I loved it right away.

Q: Who is Izzy and what is her story?
E.N.B.: Izzy is the younger sister of Becca, the main character played by Kate Martin, whose son dies. Izzy has always been kind of a screw-up, but she's trying to mature at the same time and help her sister keep it together.

Q: What will the audience most remember about this production of Rabbit Hole?
E.N.B.: I love the script. The dialogue is really realistic and paints an accurate portrayal of how this situation is without sugar coating it or making it terribly sad to watch. The audience will be impressed by how much humor there is in the play mixed in with the drama.

Rabbit Hole opens Friday, January 20 and runs three weekends through Sunday, February 5 at the historic Monon Depot Theatre at the corner of 5th Street and North Street in downtown Lafayette. Friday and Saturday shows begin at 7:30 p.m. Sunday shows begin at 2:30 p.m. For more information about the show or to order tickets, call 765-423-PLAY (7529) or visit Civic Theatre's website.

In the Wings: Rabbit Hole. Meet Asher Trout.

2012-01-09T12:01:00.002-05:00

Asher Trout plays Jason Willette in Rabbit Hole, the third show of the 2011-2012 MainStage season at Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette. The Pulitzer Prize-winning script is by David Lindsay-Abaire.

Question: Why did you audition for Rabbit Hole?
Asher Trout: I've done a lot of Civic Youth Theatre shows, and I thought it would be cool to be in a MainStage production.

Q: Who is Jason Willette and what is his story?
A.T.: Jason is a kid who's kind of down on his luck, home alone with his mom. One day he's driving around and he accidentally hits Danny Corbett. He's trying to meet with the family and get what happened off his chest.

Q: What will the audience most remember about this production of Rabbit Hole?
A.T.: The interactions between Howie and Becca, played by Neil Radtke and Kate Martin, because they are the most powerful parts of the play, especially at the end of Act 1.

Rabbit Hole opens Friday, January 20 and runs three weekends through Sunday, February 5 at the historic Monon Depot Theatre at the corner of 5th Street and North Street in downtown Lafayette. Friday and Saturday shows begin at 7:30 p.m. Sunday shows begin at 2:30 p.m. For more information about the show or to order tickets, call 765-423-PLAY (7529) or visit Civic Theatre's website.

In the Wings: Rabbit Hole. Meet Steve Martin.

2012-01-08T12:01:00.002-05:00

Steve Martin directs Rabbit Hole, the third show in the 2011-2012 MainStage season at Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette. The Pulitzer Prize-winning script is by David Lindsay-Abaire.

Question: Why did you want to direct Rabbit Hole?
Steve Martin: The script is wonderful. First, Lindsay-Abaire gives each of the characters so much personality and dimension, I knew rehearsals would be a lot of fun. Second, he doesn't give any adverb-style stage directions, "… he said, ironically" for instance. Finding the right tone was going to be a challenge, I thought. Third, the script allows for moments that are lively, sad, serene, painfully honest, angry and hopeful – often in the same scene. It's a tremendous script that I have grown to love.

Q: Where is the show set? Who are the characters?
S.M.: We are in the home of Becca and Howie Corbett, played by Kate Martin and Neil Radtke, in present day Larchmont, New York, a town with a population of about 6,000 northeast of Manhattan. The eight scenes take place between February and May. Becca and Howie are a married couple whose only son, four-year-old Danny, was killed in a car accident eight months before the play begins. They're grieving and coping with this loss in different ways, which may be pushing them apart. Izzy, Becca's sister played by Elizabeth Nolan Brown, has unpleasant information to share with Becca and Howie; Nat, Becca's mother played by Mary Anne Cecil, tries to help Becca but in a self-serving way. Things grow more complicated when high school senior Jason Willette, played by Asher Trout, who drove the vehicle that killed Danny, asks to meet with the Corbetts.

Q: What will the audience remember most about this production of Rabbit Hole?
S.M.: These characters are full of such a variety of emotions and needs; all of them have virtues, all of them have flaws. They go through so much, changing from how they were at the beginning. I think the audience will most remember these journeys, these characters and the actors portraying them.

Rabbit Hole opens Friday, January 20 and runs three weekends through Sunday, February 5 at the historic Monon Depot Theatre at the corner of 5th Street and North Street in downtown Lafayette. Friday and Saturday shows begin at 7:30 p.m. Sunday shows begin at 2:30 p.m. For more information about the show or to order tickets, call 765-423-PLAY (7529) or visit Civic Theatre's website.

Announcing auditions for Red Hot and Cole

2012-01-01T20:36:00.005-05:00

Director Kate Walker has announced auditions for Red Hot and Cole, the fourth production of the 2011-2012 MainStage season at Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette.

Auditions will be held Sunday, January 15 and Monday, January 16 from 6-9 p.m. in the Civic Theatre office at 313 N. 5th Street in downtown Lafayette.

Those auditioning will be asked to prepare a song in the style of the show: Jazz Era standards. Songs from the show are acceptable. Please dress comfortably for movement. To sign up for an appointment, call 765-423-PLAY (7529). Everyone auditioning will be asked to attend through the end of the hour.

The director seeks several singers and actors ages 16 and older to play various roles.

He's "throwing a ball tonight" – and you're all invited, to a "swellegant" theatrical party spanning the life of Broadway's greatest wit, the irrepressible Cole Porter.

A scintillating mixture of biography and song, Red Hot and Cole celebrates the great American songwriter who brought style, elegance and sophistication to the stages and soundstages of Broadway and Hollywood, delighting the world with his devilishly clever rhymes, fresh and unexpected melodies and sassy, sexy sensibility.

Red Hot and Cole will open Friday, March 2 and run through Sunday, March 18 in the historic Monon Depot Theatre. Friday and Saturday performances begin at 7:30 p.m. Sunday performances begin at 2:30 p.m.

For more information about the show or to order tickets, call Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette at 765-423-PLAY (7529) or visit its website.

Happy New Year from Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette

2012-01-01T17:41:00.000-05:00

Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette wishes you and your loved ones a prosperous and peaceful 2012.

Announcing Youth Classes - Home School: Session 2, Jan. 8-Feb. 13

2011-12-27T12:01:00.000-05:00

Lori Portner, Director of Education and Outreach at Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette, has announced the schedule for Youth Classes – Home School.

These are the classes scheduled for Session 2, Jan. 8-Feb. 13:

Discovering Theatre
* Home School, ages 3-6 years
* Thursdays, 9-10 a.m.
* Students will discover the world of theatre using stories, imagination, games and crafts.
* The cost is $85.00.

Performing Theatre
* Home School, ages 7-11 years
* Thursdays, 10-11 a.m.
* Students will learn to create and perform monologues through games and improvisation.
* The cost is $85.00.

Celebrating Theatre
* Home School, ages 12+ years
* Thursdays, 11 a.m.-noon
* Students will learn about the many aspects of theatre by being cast and performing in a 10-20 minute play.
* The cost is $85.00.

Civic Theatre students will gain an appreciation of theatre arts, as well as a deeper understanding of the importance of teamwork, discipline, focus and commitment, all while making new friends and having fun with their peers. Students will also benefit from an enhanced sense of self-image and confidence while they foster self-expression and develop creative acting skills.

Our curricula are designed to give students the best of both worlds—training in the acting technique plus real experience onstage through “Take a Bow” showcases at the end of each 6-week session performed for family and friends.

To register for a class, visit Civic Theatre's website and download a form, or call 765-423-7529 for assistance.

Announcing Youth Classes: Session 2, Jan. 8-Feb. 13

2011-12-26T12:01:00.006-05:00

Lori Portner, Director of Education and Outreach at Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette, has announced the schedule for Youth Classes.

These are the classes scheduled for Session 2, Jan. 8-Feb. 13:

Imagination Theatre
* Ages 3-4 years
* Tuesdays, 10-10:45 a.m.
* Students will use stories, theatre games and crafts to imagine theatre.
* The cost is $60.00.

Creation Theatre
* Ages 5-6 years
* Tuesdays, 11:15 a.m.-12 p.m.
* Students will create theatre using their imagination, stories and movement games.
* The cost is $60.00.

Exploration Theatre
* Ages 7-8 years
* Tuesdays, 4:30-5:30 p.m.
* Students will explore the world of theatre using improvisation and character creation.
* The cost is $85.00.

Production Theatre
* Ages 7-11 years
* Wednesdays, 4:30-5:30 p.m.
* Students will bring together all the elements of theatre, be cast in a 10-20 minute play and perform at "Take a Bow" showcase
* The cost is $85.00.

Construction Theatre
* Ages 12+ years
* Thursdays, 4:30-5:30 p.m.
* Students will construct scenes using monologues, dialogues and improvisation.
* The cost is $85.00.

Civic Theatre students will gain an appreciation of theatre arts, as well as a deeper understanding of the importance of teamwork, discipline, focus and commitment, all while making new friends and having fun with their peers. Students will also benefit from an enhanced sense of self-image and confidence while they foster self-expression and develop creative acting skills.

Our curricula are designed to give students the best of both worlds—training in the acting technique plus real experience onstage through “Take a Bow” showcases at the end of each 6-week session performed for family and friends.

To register for a class, visit Civic Theatre's website and download a form, or call 765-423-7529 for assistance.

Merry Christmas from Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette.

2011-12-25T00:01:00.001-05:00

Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette wishes a Merry Christmas to our sponsors, patrons, audience members, volunteers, staff members and, most of all, you.

Announcing Adult Classes – January 2012

2011-12-21T12:01:00.003-05:00

Lori Portner, Director of Education and Outreach at Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette, has announced the schedule for Adult Classes in January 2012:

Audition Techniques for Adults
* Saturday, Jan. 21, 9 a.m.-noon
* This is the year you are going to audition for a show at Civic Theatre. Join this class and learn techniques that will help you get the role you've always wanted.
* The cost is $25.00.

Getting Your "Act" Together
* Saturday, Jan. 28, 9 a.m.-noon
* Learn theatre techniques that when applied to your daily life can help you achieve goals, increase organization skills and your memory.
* The cost is $25.00.

To register for a class, visit Civic Theatre's website and download a form, or call 765-423-7529 for assistance.

Share Your Thoughts: The Honky Tonk Angels Holiday Spectacular

2011-12-18T16:30:00.004-05:00

Now that The Honky Tonk Angels Holiday Spectacular has closed, share your thoughts about the production.

What will you remember about the show? What were your thoughts about the performances? The story and theme? The design? What were the standout moments?

What is on your theatre-related wish list this holiday season?

2011-12-15T07:31:00.000-05:00

The gift-giving season is just around the corner. What theatre-related items are on your wish list this year?

Maybe it's equipment to build sets and set pieces.

Or maybe a coffee table book filled with paintings so you can explore artists' use of light and shadow.

There are costume design books filled with fashions from the Stone Age to contemporary times.

Maybe you are looking for an anthology of plays, or one play in particular. Or a biography of one of your theatre role models.

And of course, there are always tickets to a show in Lafayette, at Purdue, and in Indianapolis, Chicago and other cities.

Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette has a wish list, too. It's published in the program for each MainStage production and the summer/holiday shows. If you can provide the following, contact Civic Theatre at 765-423-PLAY (7529) and let Steve Koehler, Lori Portner and Bob Sauers know:

Microphones for a wireless system
MP3 player
Office desk
Large whiteboard/dry erase board
LCD projector
Combination TV/DVD player
Large paper cutter
Civic Theatre documents or memorabilia
Theatre reference materials, books and scripts
Large plastic storage bins
Drill press
Sponsorships: MainStage show sponsorships begin at $2,000. Civic Youth Theatre show sponsorsihps begin at $500
Rehearsal space

Whatever is on your wish list this year, enjoy!

Announcing the cast of Farragut North

2011-12-13T17:04:00.003-05:00

Director Neil Radtke has announced the cast of Farragut North, the third staged reading in the 2011-2012 season at Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette. The script is by Beau Willimon.

The cast includes:

Stephen - Aaron Newton
Paul - Craig Martin
Ben - Zack Campbell
Ida - Kristen D. Singleton
Molly - Jessica Searight
Tom - David Dietz
Frank/Waiter - Bill Knapp

The staged reading of Farragut North will be Tuesday, January 24 at the historic Monon Depot Theatre at the corner of 5th Street and North Street in downtown Lafayette. It is a Pay What You Can Event.

For more information about the staged reading, call Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette at 765-423-PLAY (7529) or visit its website.

Deadline for Young Directors Project applications

2011-12-10T17:22:00.006-05:00

Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette is seeking high school students from the 14-county Tippecanoe Arts Federation area to direct one-act plays as a part of the Young Directors Project in the 2011-2012 Civic Youth Theatre season. The 14-county TAF area includes Benton, Carroll, Cass, Clinton, Fountain, Howard, Jasper, Montgomery, Newton, Pulaski, Tippecanoe, Tipton, Warren and White Counties.

Two to four students will be selected from all applicants. Students must submit a one-act play and a completed application form. The form is available at http://www.lafayettecivic.org/ or from Lori Portner, Civic Theatre's Director of Education and Outreach, at 765-423-7529 (PLAY) or lori@lafayttecivic.org. Copies of the scripts must accompany the application.

Students will have support from senior Civic Theatre staff and volunteers as they direct their work. A full production - including lighting, sound, costumes and set - will be mounted April 2012.

Civic Theatre reserves the right to suggest alternate titles to applicants.

Submission Guidelines:

Length: One-act play, performance time of 15-45 minutes
Setting: Minimal set requirements, single location preferred
Cast Size: 2-10 actors
Subject: Unrestricted
Submissions should be mailed or hand-delivered by January 16, 2012 to:

Young Directors Project
Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette
313 N. 5th Street
Lafayette, IN 47901

Selected directors will be notified by February 10, 2012.

Performances will be April 20-22, 2012 at the Historic Monon Depot Theatre at the corner of 5th Street and North Street in downtown Lafayette.

The Review is In: The Honky Tonk Angels Holiday Spectacular

2011-12-07T08:01:00.001-05:00

The review of The Honky Tonk Angels Holiday Spectacular was published in the Journal & Courier, Lafayette and West Lafayette's daily newspaper. It was written by Amy Long. You can read it here.

The Honky Tonk Angels Holiday Spectacular has two more weekends of performances at the historic Monon Depot Theatre at the corner of 5th Street and North Street in downtown Lafayette. Friday and Saturday shows are at 7:30 p.m., Sunday shows are at 2:30 p.m.

To order tickets, call Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette at 765-423-7529 (PLAY) or visit its website.

Civic Theatre on YouTube: Commemorating 30 Years at the Monon Depot Theatre

2011-12-05T12:01:00.001-05:00

Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette is celebrating its 30th year in the historic Monon Depot Theatre during the 2011-2012 season. A video to commemorate the milestone has been added to the Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette channel on YouTube.

Thanks to Adrenaline Visuals for creating this video.

Announcing the original script for the 2011-2012 Staged Reading Series

2011-12-03T12:01:00.001-05:00

The Staged Reading Series at Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette always has included at least one previously unpublished script written by a local playwright. The titles have been:

* 2007-2008: Pia Zadora Sings Gershwin by Deborah Gray and A Very Bad Day for Brandon Butterworth by Scott Haan
* 2008-2009: In the Weeds by Steve Gooch
* 2009-2010: TILT by Laurie Russell
* 2010-2011: Roman Cokes by Jeff Spanke

The original script chosen for the 2011-2012 Staged Reading Series is Puzzles by Laurie Russell.

Synopsis: Lily’s parents are getting a divorce, and she is not taking it well. To keep her out of trouble, her parents make a deal with the neighboring senior home: they will purchase a new copier for the residence if Lily can work there eight weeks. Lily interacts with the other residents and is cast in the senior home's annual play directed by the former Rantoul Civic Theatre Director, Mrs. Custenborder.

Characters:
Miss Fladd - runs the home. She’s in her fifties.
Lily Garling - a 15-year-old.
Mr. Garling - Lily’s father.
Mrs. Garling - Lily’s mother.
Mrs. Custenborder - former community theatre director.
Esther Rosenblatz - bossy, but well-meaning.
Maury Rosenblatz - Esther’s husband, blunt, loves his wife dearly.
Fran - she’s in a wheelchair, sweet and shy.
Georgia - placid, laid-back, matter of fact.
Babs - has no fear, brash.
Hildy - doesn’t speak because of a stroke.
Helen - genteel, living in the past.
Emily - Helen's sister, also living in the past.
Mia - a very cranky 81-year-old.
Bonnie - the exercise leader.

The staged reading of Puzzles will be held May 15, 2012 at the historic Monon Depot Theatre at the corner of 5th Street and North Street in downtown Lafayette. It will be a Pay What You Can event.

Opening Night for The Honky Tonk Angels Holiday Spectacular: production photos

2011-12-02T08:01:00.001-05:00

Thanks to Kris Kazmierczak for taking these production photos.

The Honky Tonk Angels Holiday Spectacular opens tonight, Dec. 2 at 7:30 p.m. in the historic Monon Depot Theatre at the corner of 5th Street and North Street in downtown Lafayette. The show will run three consecutive weekends through Sunday, Dec. 18.

To order tickets, call Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette at 765-423-7529 (PLAY) or visit its website.

In the Wings: The Honky Tonk Angels Holiday Spectacular. Preview on jconline.com

2011-12-01T08:01:00.000-05:00

A preview of The Honky Tonk Angels Holiday Spectacular appears online at http://www.jconline.com/, the website of the Journal & Courier, Lafayette and West Lafayette's daily newspaper. It was written by Tim Brouk.

You can read the preview here.

The Honky Tonk Angels Holiday Spectacular opens Friday, December 2 and runs three consecutive weekends through Sunday, December 18 at the historic Monon Depot Theatre at the corner of 5th Street and North Street in downtown Lafayette.

For more information about the show or to order tickets, call Civic Theatre's office at 765-423-7529 (PLAY) or visit Civic Theatre's website.

Civic Theatre on YouTube: The Honky Tonk Angels Holiday Spectacular

2011-11-30T12:01:00.002-05:00

The following preview of The Honky Tonk Angels Holiday Spectacular, the holiday show in the 2011-2012 season at Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette, has been added to the Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette channel on YouTube.

Thanks to Steve Scherer for creating this video.

The Honky Tonk Angels Holiday Spectacular opens Friday, Dec. 2 and runs through Sunday, Dec. 18 at the historic Monon Depot Theatre in downtown Lafayette. For more information about the show or to order tickets, call Civic Theatre at 765-423-7529 (PLAY) or visit its website.

Announcing the cast of Rabbit Hole

2011-11-28T12:01:00.000-05:00

Director Steve Martin has announced the cast of Rabbit Hole, the third MainStage production in the 2011-2012 season at Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette. The Pulitzer Prize-winning script is by David Lindsay-Abaire.

The cast includes:

Becca - Kate Martin
Izzy - Liz Brown
Howie - Neil Radtke
Nat - Mary Anne Cecil
Jason - Asher Trout

Rabbit Hole will run Friday, January 20 through Sunday, February 5 at the historic Monon Depot Theatre at the corner of 5th Street and North Street in downtown Lafayette. Friday and Saturday evening performances will begin at 7:30 p.m.; the Sunday afternoon performances will begin at 2:30 p.m.

For more information about the show or to order tickets, call 765-423-7529 or visit Civic Theatre's website.

In the Wings: The Honky Tonk Angels Holiday Spectacular. Meet Cathy Russell.

2011-11-25T12:01:00.002-05:00

Cathy Russell plays Sue Ellen in The Honky Tonk Angels Holiday Spectacular, the holiday show of the 2011-2012 season at Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette. The show was created by Ted Swindley.

Question: How would you describe Sue Ellen?
Cathy Russell: She is a citified country girl living in Los Angeles. She is supposed to be in her late 30s. She's smart and owns her own nail salon from money she received from a sexual harassment suit. She's still pining over her high school sweetheart, Cornell Crawford, who is living in West Hollywood with his boyfriend and she hopes that one day he will convert.

Q: Why did you want to perform in The Honky Tonk Angels Holiday Spectacular?
C.R.: It was so much fun to play Sue Ellen in the original production of Honky Tonk Angels in September 2008. I had to come back and do this show.

Q: What will an audience enjoy most about the show?
C.R.: It's going to be the holidays, we're singing a lot of good songs, it's funny. There's nothing not to like about this show. People can come in here and laugh, then return home feeling good.

Q: What are your favorite holiday songs?
C.R.: I always liked "Silver Bells" and Harry Belafonte's "Mary's Boy Child." In this show, my favorite song is "Santa Bring My Baby Home."

The Honky Tonk Angels Holiday Spectacular opens Friday, December 2 and runs through Sunday, December 18 at the historic Monon Depot Theatre at the corner of 5th Street and North Street in downtown Lafayette. Friday and Saturday shows are at 7:30 p.m. Sunday shows are at 2:30 p.m. For more information or to order tickets, call 765-423-PLAY (7529) or visit Civic Theatre's website.

Happy Thanksgiving from Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette

2011-11-24T00:01:00.001-05:00

Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette wishes you a happy and safe Thanksgiving day.

In the Wings: The Honky Tonk Angels Holiday Spectacular. Meet Kate Martin.

2011-11-23T12:01:00.001-05:00

Kate Martin plays Darlene in The Honky Tonk Angels Holiday Spectacular, the holiday show of the 2011-2012 season at Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette. The show was created by Ted Swindley.

Question: How would you describe Darlene?
Kate Martin: She is a young, innocent girl who wants to be a big country star. She's like LeAnn Rimes or an early Dolly Parton. She sings innocent, happy country songs.

Q: What are your favorite holiday songs?
K.M.: My favorite is "Silent Night," which Verna Pasley sings in the show.

The Honky Tonk Angels Holiday Spectacular opens Friday, December 2 and runs through Sunday, December 18 at the historic Monon Depot Theatre at the corner of 5th Street and North Street in downtown Lafayette. Friday and Saturday shows are at 7:30 p.m. Sunday shows are at 2:30 p.m. For more information or to order tickets, call 765-423-PLAY (7529) or visit Civic Theatre's website.

In the Wings: The Honky Tonk Angels Holiday Spectacular. Meet Ariel Ivas.

2011-11-22T12:01:00.003-05:00

Ariel Ivas plays Angela in The Honky Tonk Angels Holiday Spectacular, the holiday show of the 2011-2012 season at Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette. The show was created by Ted Swindley.

Question: Why did you want to perform in The Honky Tonk Angels Holiday Spectacular?
Ariel Ivas: I did a lot of performing at Jefferson High School. I moved back to Lafayette this summer, and I wanted to get back into acting and singing again.

Q: How would you describe Angela?
A.I.: She is very silly and outspoken. She sings "The Redneck 12 Days of Christmas," which is really fun.

Q: What will an audience enjoy most about the show?
A.I.: I think they'll like that it's an all-female cast. The harmonies are really good. It's a fun show, and it's super silly. It's fun for Christmastime with all the familiar songs.

Q: What are your favorite holiday songs?
A.I.: I really like "Joy to the World" and "Silent Night." "Jingle Bell Rock" is also one of my favorites. I like traditional Christmas songs.

The Honky Tonk Angels Holiday Spectacular opens Friday, December 2 and runs through Sunday, December 18 at the historic Monon Depot Theatre at the corner of 5th Street and North Street in downtown Lafayette. Friday and Saturday shows are at 7:30 p.m. Sunday shows are at 2:30 p.m. For more information or to order tickets, call 765-423-PLAY (7529) or visit Civic Theatre's website.

In the Wings: The Honky Tonk Angels Holiday Spectacular. Meet Verna Pasley

2011-11-21T12:01:00.003-05:00

Verna Pasley plays Charilee in The Honky Tonk Angels Holiday Spectacular, the holiday show of the 2011-2012 season at Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette. The show was created by Ted Swindley.

Question: Why did you want to perform in The Honky Tonk Angels Holiday Spectacular?
Verna Pasley: I had been thinking about doing something with Civic. It's been a while since I've done a play at Civic Theatre; I was in Proposals and Marvin's Room. A friend e-mailed information about the auditions for this show, and I went.

Q: How would you describe Charilee?
V.P.: She's fun, she's earthy and she's someone I wouldn't mind having as a friend. She's psychic and she's friendly.

Q: What will an audience enjoy most about the show?
V.P.: The music. It's fantastic. It's predominantly holiday songs, but there are some songs that you can sing any time of the year. It's going to be fun, the audience is going to come out and have a fun evening.

Q: What are your favorite holiday songs?
V.P.: "Silent Night" is my favorite Christmas song.

The Honky Tonk Angels Holiday Spectacular opens Friday, December 2 and runs through Sunday, December 18 at the historic Monon Depot Theatre at the corner of 5th Street and North Street in downtown Lafayette. Friday and Saturday shows are at 7:30 p.m. Sunday shows are at 2:30 p.m. For more information or to order tickets, call 765-423-PLAY (7529) or visit Civic Theatre's website.

Announcing auditions for Farragut North

2011-11-20T14:00:00.000-05:00

Director Neil Radtke has announced auditions for Farragut North, the third staged reading during the 2011-2012 season at Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette. The script is by Beau Willimon.

Auditions will be held 7-9 p.m. on Sunday, December 11 and Monday, December 12 at Civic Theatre's office, 313 N. 5th Street in downtown Lafayette.

Those auditioning will be asked to read from the script, which is available to be checked out from the Civic Theatre office.

The director is seeking actors for the following roles:

Stephen (Mid-20s), press secretary to a governor running for president.

Paul (40s to 60s), Stephen’s boss and a veteran campaign manager.

Ben (Early 20s), the deputy press secretary.

Molly (Late teens to early 20s), an intern on the campaign.

Tom (40s to 60s), the opposition candidate's campaign manager.

Ida (30s to 50s), a reporter at The New York Times.

Frank (30s to 50s), a reporter at the Los Angeles Times.

Restaurant Owner (30s to 50s), a Latino restaurant owner. Can be played by the actor who plays Frank.

Stephen Bellamy is a wunderkind press secretary who has built a career that men twice his age would envy. During a tight presidential primary race, Stephen's meteoric rise falls prey to the backroom politics of more seasoned operatives. Farragut North is a timely story about the lust for power and the costs one will endure to achieve it.

The staged reading of Farragut North will take place Tuesday, January 24 at 7:30 p.m. in the historic Monon Depot Theatre in downtown Lafayette.

In the Wings: The Honky Tonk Angels Holiday Spectacular. Meet Bob Mindrum.

2011-11-20T12:01:00.003-05:00

Bob Mindrum directs The Honky Tonk Angels Holiday Spectacular, the holiday show of the 2011-2012 season at Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette. The show was created by Ted Swindley.

Question: Why did you want to direct The Honky Tonk Angels Holiday Spectacular?
Bob Mindrum: I enjoyed directing the first Honky Tonk Angels in September 2008. It was a surprise success and it was fun with its musicality and tight harmonies. And the country music made the show appealing to a different kind of audience.

Q: Where is the show set? Who are the characters?
B.M.: The show is a reunion of The Honky Tonk Angels at the Honky Tonk Bar and All-You-Can-Eat Buffet. The Honky Tonk Angels – Angela, Sue Ellen and Darlene – met on a bus to Nashville. Angela is not able to attend the reunion because she's sick. Charilee, who works in the same beauty shop in California as Sue Ellen, agrees to stand in for Angela. Charilee is from Detroit, and she brings a Motown influence to the show, songs like "Peppermint Twist" and "Santa's Got a Brand-New Bag."

Q: What will an audience enjoy most about the show?
B.M.: The audience will enjoy the music. There's a lot of music that ranges from Willie Nelson to James Brown to Karen Carpenter to Elvis Presley and all points between. There's a house band, and that'll be a lot of fun. There's also some nice characterizations, and the actors are having fun with the characters.

Q: What are your favorite holiday songs?
B.M.: I've always been a sucker for "O Little Town of Bethlehem." I'm old-fashioned as it relates to Christmas songs. I like the old, simple, classic, four-part harmony Christmas songs.

The Honky Tonk Angels Holiday Spectacular opens Friday, December 2 and runs through Sunday, December 18 at the historic Monon Depot Theatre at the corner of 5th Street and North Street in downtown Lafayette. Friday and Saturday shows are at 7:30 p.m. Sunday shows are at 2:30 p.m. For more information or to order tickets, call 765-423-PLAY (7529) or visit Civic Theatre's website.

Announcing the cast of Miss Nelson is Missing

2011-11-18T19:01:00.001-05:00

Director Laurie Russell has announced the cast of Miss Nelson is Missing, the second Civic Youth Theatre production of the 2011-2012 season at Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette. The script is by Jeffrey Hatcher, based on the book by Harry Allard and James Marshall.

The cast includes:

Miss Nelson/Viola Swamp - Julie Loftus
Principal Humleker - Taylor Bundy
Detective McSmogg - Jacob Holley
George - Joel Simmons
Raymond - Dean Rhoda
Phoebe - Ashlyn Short
Lavita - Delaney Schlesinger-Devlin
Mouse - Maggie Pearl
Kimberly - Annie Furtner
Elvis - John Carlson

Miss Nelson is Missing will run Friday, February 17 through Sunday, February 19 at the historic Monon Depot Theatre at the corner of 5th Street and North Street in downtown Lafayette. Friday and Saturday evening performances will begin at 7:30 p.m.; the Sunday afternoon performance will begin at 2:30 p.m.

For more information about the show or to order tickets, call 765-423-7529 or visit Civic Theatre's website.

Share Your Thoughts: Love Letters

2011-11-13T17:01:00.002-05:00

Now that Love Letters has closed, share your thoughts about the production.

What will you remember about the show? What are your thoughts about the performances? The story and theme? The design? What were the standout moments?

The Review Is In: Love Letters

2011-11-09T17:01:00.000-05:00

The review of Love Letters was published in the Journal & Courier, Lafayette & West Lafayette's daily newspaper. It was written by Amy Long. You can read it here.

Love Letters has one more weekend of performances at the historic Monon Depot Theatre at the corner of 5th Street and North Street in downtown Lafayette. Friday and Saturday shows are at 7:30 p.m., Sunday shows are at 2:30 p.m.

To inquire about tickets, call Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette at 765-423-7529 or visit its website.

Share Your Thoughts: Why Torture is Wrong, and the People Who Love Them

2011-11-08T22:00:00.001-05:00

The staged reading of Why Torture is Wrong, and the People Who Love Them took place tonight at 7:30 p.m. at the historic Monon Depot Theatre in downtown Lafayette with 35 people in attendance.

As with other staged readings in the series, it was followed by a question-and-answer session between the audience, the cast and the director, Arliss Jeffries.

Did you attend the staged reading? What did you think about the characters, the plot and other elements of the script? What were some of the high points? What will you remember most about this staged reading?

Announcing auditions for Rabbit Hole

2011-11-06T15:01:00.001-05:00

Director Steve Martin has announced auditions for Rabbit Hole, the third production of the 2011-2012 MainStage season at Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette.

Auditions will be held Sunday, November 20 from 3-5 p.m. and Monday, November 21 from 7-9 p.m. at the Civic Theatre office at 313 N. 5th Street in downtown Lafayette.

Those auditioning will be asked to read from the script - copies can be checked out from the Civic Theatre office - and to stay at late as possible at auditions.

The director is looking to cast the following roles:

Becca, mid-30s to early 40s.
Izzy, mid-30s, Becca's sister.
Howie, late 30s to early 40s, Becca's husband.
Nat, late 50s to early 60s, Becca and Izzy's mother.
Jason, late teens, a high school senior.

Becca and Howie Corbett have everything a family could want, until a life-shattering accident turns their world upside down and leaves the couple drifting perilously apart. Rabbit Hole charts their bittersweet search for comfort in the darkest of places and for a path that will lead them back into the light of day.

Rabbit Hole will open Friday, January 20 and run through Sunday, February 5 in the historic Monon Depot Theatre. Friday and Saturday performances begin at 7:30 p.m. Sunday performances begin at 2:30 p.m.

For more information about the show or to order tickets, call Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette at 765-423-7529 (PLAY) or visit its website.

Civic Theatre on YouTube: Love Letters

2011-11-04T16:31:00.000-04:00

The following preview of Love Letters, the second production of the 2011-2012 MainStage season at Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette, has been added to the Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette channel on YouTube.

Thanks to Steve Koehler for creating this video.

Love Letters opens tonight, Nov. 4 and runs through Sunday, Nov. 13 at the historic Monon Depot Theatre at the corner of 5th Street and North Street in downtown Lafayette. For more information about the show or to order tickets, call Civic Theatre at 765-423-7529 (PLAY) or visit its website.

Opening Night for Love Letters: production photos

2011-11-04T12:18:00.007-04:00

Thanks to Kris Kazmierczak for taking these production photos.

Love Letters opens tonight, Nov. 4, at 7:30 p.m. in the historic Monon Depot Theatre at the corner of 5th Street and North Street in downtown Lafayette. The show will run two consecutive weekends through Sunday, Nov. 13.

To order tickets, call Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette at 765-423-7529 (PLAY) or visit its website.

In the Wings: Love Letters. Preview on jconline.com

2011-11-04T11:21:00.004-04:00

A preview of Love Letters appears online at http://www.jconline.com, the website of the Journal & Courier, Lafayette and West Lafayette's daily newspaper. It was written by Tim Brouk.

You can read the preview here.

Love Letters opens tonight and runs two consecutive weekends through Sunday, November 13 at the historic Monon Depot Theatre at the corner of 5th Street and North Street in downtown Lafayette.

For more information about the show or to order tickets, call Civic Theatre's office at 765-423-7529 (PLAY) or visit Civic Theatre's website.

The Staged Reading Series: Why Torture is Wrong, and the People Who Love Them on November 8

2011-11-02T17:01:00.001-04:00

The second script in the 2011-2012 Staged Reading Series at Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette is Why Torture is Wrong, and the People Who Love Them by Christopher Durang.

Arliss Jeffries directs the cast, which includes Zachary Davis, Jane Hoaks, E. Linda Jeffries, Steve Martin, Ralph Rohrer, Rick Siler and Rachel Thibault. Kris Kazmierczak is the assistant director.

Christopher Durang turns political humor upside down with this raucous and provocative satire about America's growing homeland "insecurity." Why Torture is Wrong, and the People Who Love Them tells the story of a young woman suddenly in crisis: Is her new husband, whom she married when drunk, a terrorist? Or just crazy? Or both? Is her father's hobby of butterfly collecting really a cover for his involvement in a shadow government? Why does her mother enjoy going to the theatre so much? Does she seek mental escape, or is she insane? Honing in on our private terrors both at home and abroad, Durang oddly relieves our fears in this black comedy for an era of yellow, orange and red alerts.

The staged reading will be held at the historic Monon Depot Theatre at the corner of 5th Street and North Street in downtown Lafayette on Tuesday, November 8 at 7:30 p.m. There will be a question-and-answer session between the audience, cast and director immediately following the reading. Audience members are encouraged to pay what they can for admission.

To learn more about Why Torture is Wrong, and the People Who Love Them or the Staged Reading Series, call Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette at 765-423-7529 or visit its website.

In the Wings: Love Letters. Meet Sally Coffman.

2011-11-02T12:01:00.001-04:00

Sally Coffman plays Melissa Gardner in Love Letters, the second production of the 2011-2012 MainStage season at Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette. The script is by A.R. Gurney.

Question: How would you describe Melissa?
Sally Coffman: Melissa is a free spirit and artistic. She comes from a wealthy family, but also a broken family. She doesn't have the childhood that Andy has. That's one of the draws; she believes he has a good family.

Q: What does Melissa do in the show?
S.C.: She writes love letters to Andrew Makepeace Ladd III, played by John David Collier, when they meet in the second grade. The play is all of the letters they've written to each other throughout their lives.

Q: What do you think an audience will take away from a performance of Love Letters?
S.C.: The takeaway is that we all have people from our childhood who, if we haven't written to them through our whole lives, we remember when they were young and when we were young.

Q: Did you have a pen pal when you grew up?
S.C.: No.

Love Letters opens Friday, November 4 and runs two weekends through Sunday, November 13 at the historic Monon Depot Theatre at the corner of 5th Street and North Street in downtown Lafayette. Friday and Saturday shows begin at 7:30 p.m. Sunday shows begin at 2:30 p.m. For more information or to order tickets, call Civic Theatre at 765-423-7529 (PLAY) or visit its website.

Announcing auditions for Miss Nelson is Missing

2011-11-01T17:12:00.003-04:00

Director Laurie Russell has announced auditions for Miss Nelson is Missing, the second production in the 2011-2012 Civic Youth Theatre season at Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette.

Auditions will be held Monday, November 14 from 6:30-8:30 p.m. and Tuesday, November 15 from 7-9 p.m. at the historic Monon Depot Theatre.

Those auditioning will be asked to prepare a one-minute memorized monologue, as well as to read from the script. To sign up for an appointment, call Civic Theatre at 765-423-7529 (PLAY). Everyone will be asked to stay until the end of the hour.

The director seeks youth between the ages of 7 and 18 to play the adult and children's roles.

The kids in Room 207 are the wildest, most rambunctious class in the entire elementary school. Their sweet teacher Miss Nelson doesn’t know what to do. She starts each new school year with a smile on her face, expecting an even better class than she had the year before. This year is different. This year is a nightmare. Poor Miss Nelson is out of ideas and on her way to a nervous breakdown, when suddenly she has a plan. The next day, the children arrive in class to find Miss Nelson has been replaced by Viola Swamp, the substitute no child ever wants to meet. She’s tough, strict, and never puts up with what she considers bad behavior. This hilarious classic follows Miss Swamp as she uses her idea of tough love to control the class, as well as the children’s attempts to find Miss Nelson before it’s too late for all of them.

Miss Nelson is Missing will open Friday, February 17 and run through Sunday, February 19 in the historic Monon Depot Theatre. Friday and Saturday performances begin at 7:30 p.m. The Sunday performance begins at 2:30 p.m.

For more information about the show or to order tickets, call Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette at 765-423-7529 or visit its website.

In the Wings: Love Letters. Meet John David Collier.

2011-11-01T12:01:00.004-04:00

John David Collier plays Andrew Makepeace Ladd III in Love Letters, the second production of the 2011-2012 MainStage season at Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette. The script is by A.R. Gurney.

Question: How would you describe Andrew?
John David Collier: Andrew is conservative and diligent. He is an overachiever and he loves to write.

Q: What does Andrew see in his friendship with Melissa?
J.D.C.: At the heart of it all is physical attraction. He wants her from the very beginning, but she doesn't want him. He accepts it and moves on, then ultimately chooses someone who doesn't give him the fulfillment that Melissa gives him.

Q: What do you think an audience will take away from Love Letters?
J.D.C.: I hope they'll take away how wonderful it is to write letters, how meaningful they are. And also, I think they'll be able to relate to one of the letters throughout the show.

Q: Did you have a pen pal you grew up?
J.D.C.: I did not. I had too many siblings.

Love Letters opens Friday, November 4 and runs two weekends through Sunday, November 13 at the historic Monon Depot Theatre at the corner of 5th Street and North Street in downtown Lafayette. Friday and Saturday shows begin at 7:30 p.m. Sunday shows begin at 2:30 p.m. For more information or to order tickets, call Civic Theatre at 765-423-7529 (PLAY) or visit its website.

In the Wings: Love Letters. Meet Alice Schwind.

2011-10-31T12:01:00.005-04:00

Alice Schwind directs Love Letters, the second production of the 2011-2012 MainStage season at Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette. The script is by A.R. Gurney.

Question: When is Love Letters set? Who are the characters?
Alice Schwind: It starts in the 1930s and ends in the 1980s. One of the characters is Andrew Makepeace Ladd III, played by John David Collier. Andy comes from a really nice family, and he is not spoiled. His parents have good expectations for him. Melissa Gardner, played by Sally Coffman, comes from a family worth a lot of money and there aren't too many expectations of her.

Q: What attracted you to directing the script?
A.S.: It is a wonderful story of people's loves and losses, their hopes and expectations that happen throughout life, their achievements and disappointments and joys.

Q: Did you have a pen pal when you grew up?
A.S.: No, I didn't.

Love Letters opens Friday, November 4 and runs two weekends through Sunday, November 13 at the historic Monon Depot Theatre at the corner of 5th Street and North Street in downtown Lafayette. Friday and Saturday shows begin at 7:30 p.m. Sunday shows begin at 2:30 p.m. For more information or to order tickets, call Civic Theatre at 765-423-7529 (PLAY) or visit its website.

Preview of the 30th Anniversary Celebration on WBAA.org

2011-10-30T00:01:00.000-04:00

A preview of the 30th Anniversary Celebration of the historic Monon Depot Theatre appears online at WBAA, Public Radio from Purdue.

You can read the preview here.

The event begins today at 2:30 p.m. in the historic Monon Depot Theatre on the corner of 5th Street and North Street in downtown Lafayette.

Thanks to everyone who participated in "The Big Clean" at Civic Theatre

2011-10-29T21:31:00.008-04:00

Lots of work was completed during today's "The Big Clean" at Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette, including organizing and cleaning the props shop, costume shop, paint area and the storage area in the Haywood building.

Thank you to all the people who did work:

From Delta Sigma Pi at Purdue University:
Solwoo Kim
Shusheel Motwani
Michelle Odanga
Brittany Whitenack

From the Tae Kwon Do Club at Purdue University:
Libo Dong
Mark Sandy
Joselito Wong Yau

From the Boiler Volunteer Network:
Deepa Singh

Dan Becker
Amy Clough
Kris Kazmierczak
Bill Knapp
Steve Koehler
Tom Long
Craig Martin
Lori Portner
Bob Sauers

Announcing the cast of Why Torture is Wrong, and the People Who Love Them

2011-10-26T17:31:00.000-04:00

Director Arliss Jeffries has announced the cast of Why Torture is Wrong, and the People Who Love Them, the second staged reading in the 2011-2012 season at Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette. The script is by Christopher Durang.

The cast includes:

Felicity - Rachel Thibault
Zamir - Zachary Davis
Luella - E. Linda Jeffries
Leonard - Rick Siler
Reverend Mike - Ralph Rohrer
Hildegard - Jane Hoaks
Voice/Narrator - Steve Martin

The staged reading of Why Torture is Wrong, and the People Who Love Them will be Tuesday, November 8 at the historic Monon Depot Theatre at the corner of 5th Street and North Street in downtown Lafayette. It is a Pay What You Can event.

For more information about the staged reading, call Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette at 765-423-7529 (PLAY) or visit its website.

Announcing "The Big Clean" at Civic Theatre on Oct. 29

2011-10-22T12:01:00.000-04:00

It's time to give Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette a good ol' autumn cleaning – and we're looking for volunteers to join in!

"The Big Clean" will take place Saturday, Oct. 29. There are several parts of the theatre that need to be cleaned including storage, costumes, prop storage and the shop. There will be jobs for all skill levels, although a lot of what will be done includes moving equipment and set pieces.

Volunteers may come and go as they wish – you don't need to stay all six hours – and your work will be appreciated by everyone who works in front of, behind and on the stage at Civic Theatre.

Questions? Call Civic Theatre at 765-423-7529 (PLAY).

The 2011 Tour of Terror: Preview on jconline.com

2011-10-21T07:38:00.004-04:00

A preview of the 2011 Tour of Terror appears online at http://www.jconline.com/, the website for the Journal & Courier, Lafayette and West Lafayette's daily newspaper.

You can read the preview here.

The Tour of Terror opens tonight with downtown walking tours beginning at 7:00 p.m. Subsequent tours begin every 30 minutes through 11:00 p.m. There will be a Midnight Tour for people who enjoy the witching hour. Tours also will be held tomorrow as well as Oct. 28 and Oct. 29, following the same schedule.

Tours begin at the historic Monon Depot Theatre at the corner of 5th Street and North Street. Tickets for all tours except the Midnight Tours cost $13.00 per person. Tickets for the Midnight Tours are $15.00.

For more information about the Tour of Terror, call Civic Theatre's office at 765-423-7529 (PLAY) or visit its website.

Celebrating 30 years at the Historic Monon Depot Theatre

2011-10-18T17:37:00.007-04:00

Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette patrons, fans, volunteers and officials will celebrate 30 years of operation of the Historic Monon Depot Theatre on Sunday, October 30 from 2:30-5:30 p.m.

In September 1981, Civic Theatre had a weeklong celebration of the opening of our new home. For 50 years Civic had existed - first as the Lafayette Little Theatre, then as an incorporated non-profit, Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette - without a proper theatre to call home. In 1979, Civic Theatre launched a fundraising effort that led to the purchase of the old Monon Line train station and renovations to transform the space into the lovely theatre that it is today.

To commemorate the 30 years of theatre in downtown Lafayette at 5th and North Streets, Civic Theatre will host an open house celebration. Adelino's Old World Kitchen and Chef Tracy Rosa will supply hors d'oeuvres and a cash bar for the event. Civic Theatre leaders will take a moment to honor some of the many people who have made the 30 years possible. Speakers will reminisce on the effort, and the presentation will culminate with the awarding of a Lifetime Achievement Award to Jim Stegenga. Jim was a critical piece of the puzzle that led to the acquisition and renovation of the space. He was the first to see the potential of the old abandoned train station, and was a key player in much of the effort to see the project through. Jim, a retired professor of political science, will travel from his home in South America to accept his award.

In addition to the open house, there will be a trivia contest, tours and a wealth of historical information on the building and the past 30 years.

In 30 years of operation of the Historic Monon Depot Theatre, more than 250 productions have taken place and thousands upon thousands of patrons have seen those shows. The Monon has also hosted hundreds of youth productions, classes and camps. The Tour of Terror has seen the Monon Depot Theatre used as a starting point for eight of the last nine years, local improvisational comedy group One Size Fits All Improv had its first performances in the Monon Depot, and countless community events have taken place in the theatre and lobby.

Help us celebrate 30 years of the Historic Monon Depot Theatre by attending the Oct. 30 open house. To learn more, call 765-423-7529 (PLAY).

Announcing the cast of The Honky Tonk Angels Holiday Spectacular

2011-10-17T17:01:00.001-04:00

Director Bob Mindrum has announced the cast of The Honky Tonk Angels Holiday Spectacular, the holiday show of the 2011-2012 season at Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette. The musical is by Ted Swindley.

The cast includes:

Angela - Ariel Ivas
Charilee - Verna Pasley
Darlene - Kate Martin
Sue Ellen - Cathy Russell

The Honky Tonk Angels Holiday Spectacular will open Friday, December 2 and run three weekends through Sunday, December 18 at the historic Monon Depot Theatre at the corner of 5th Street and North Street in downtown Lafayette.

Friday and Saturday evening performances will begin at 7:30 p.m.; the Sunday afternoon performances will begin at 2:30 p.m.

For more information about the show or to order tickets, call 765-423-7529 or visit Civic Theatre's website.

2011 Tour of Terror tickets are on sale

2011-10-14T17:01:00.001-04:00

Tickets are now available for the 2011 Tour of Terror. They can be purchased either by calling Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette at 765-423-7529 or visiting its website and choosing the "Ticket Info" option on the left-hand column. Tickets are $13 for all tours, except the midnight tours which cost $15.

The 9th annual Tour of Terror is a creepy, chilling, historically accurate walking tour of downtown Lafayette that will begin at the historic Monon Depot Theatre at the corner of 5th Street and North Street in downtown Lafayette. Tours will visit the sites of horrible accidents, mayhem and murder.

Tours will be held October 21-22 and 28-29. Tours begin at 7:00 p.m. and continue every 30 minutes until 11 p.m. Each night will conclude with a midnight tour.

Civic Theatre recognized at Bravo for the Arts event

2011-10-13T17:01:00.001-04:00

Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette was one of several arts and culture organizations recognized during the Bravo for the Arts event yesterday at the University Plaza Hotel in West Lafayette. Organizations located throughout the 14-county area served by the Tippecanoe Arts Federation were honored.

Civic Theatre will receive $11,754 from the Indiana Arts Commission; the funding is administered through the Tippecanoe Arts Federation.

In all, 27 organizations received more than $121,000 during the event. Several hundred people attended the annual event, including State Senator Sheila Klinker, State Senator Ron Alting and Lafayette Mayor Tony Roswarski.

Announcing the cast of Love Letters

2011-10-11T18:25:00.005-04:00

Director Alice Schwind has announced the cast of Love Letters, the second production of the 2011-2012 MainStage season at Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette. The script is by A.R. Gurney.

The cast includes:

Melissa Gardner - Sally Coffman
Andrew Makepeace Ladd III - John David Collier

Love Letters will open Friday, November 4 and run two weekends through Sunday, November 13 at the historic Monon Depot Theatre at the corner of 5th Street and North Street in downtown Lafayette.

Friday and Saturday evening performances will begin at 7:30 p.m.; the Sunday afternoon performances will begin at 2:30 p.m.

For more information about the show or to order tickets, call 765-423-7529 or visit Civic Theatre's website.

Announcing auditions: Why Torture is Wrong, and the People Who Love Them

2011-10-11T08:01:00.002-04:00

Director Arliss Jeffries has announced auditions for Why Torture is Wrong, and the People Who Love Them, the second staged reading during the 2011-2012 season at Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette. The script is by Christopher Durang.

Auditions will be held 6:30-8:30 p.m. on Monday, October 17 and Tuesday, October 18 at Civic Theatre's office, 313 N. 5th Street in downtown Lafayette.

Those auditioning will be asked to read from the script, which is available to be checked out from the Civic Theatre office.

The director is seeking three women, ages 20-50, and four men, ages 20-50.

Christopher Durang turns political humor upside down with this raucous and provocative satire about America's growing homeland "insecurity." Why Torture is Wrong, and the People Who Love Them tells the story of a young woman suddenly in crisis: Is her new husband, whom she married when drunk, a terrorist? Or just crazy? Or both? Is her father's hobby of butterfly collecting really a cover for his involvement in a shadow government? Why does her mother enjoy going to the theatre so much? Does she seek mental escape, or is she insane? Honing in on our private terrors both at home and abroad, Durang oddly relieves our fears in this black comedy for an era of yellow, orange and red alerts.

The staged reading of Why Torture is Wrong, and the People Who Love Them will take place Tuesday, November 8 at 7:30 p.m. in the historic Monon Depot Theatre in downtown Lafayette.

Civic Theatre to host the 4-for-1 Improv Comedy Show on Oct. 15

2011-10-10T12:01:00.001-04:00

Four improvisational comedy groups will perform Saturday, Oct. 15 during the 4-for-1 Improv Comedy Show at Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette.

The groups include Ad Liberation, The Crazy Monkeys, Ship of Fools Improv and One Size Fits All Improv. Each will perform 20-25 minutes of their own comedy during the show, which will culminate in a game that will include all four groups on the stage at one time.

The 4-for-1 Improv Comedy Show begins at 7:30 p.m., and it is fun for audience members of all ages. The cost is $5.00 per person and tickets can be bought the night of the show at Civic Theatre. They also can be reserved by calling Civic Theatre at 765-423-7529 (PLAY).

All proceeds from the show go directly to Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette, which is celebrating its 30th year in the historic Monon Depot Theatre.

Tuna moving, Love Letters Takes the Stage

2011-10-10T09:37:00.002-04:00

Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette is committed to producinga high standard of theatrical productions. It is with that in mind that we announce a change in the seasonschedule.

Due to casting and scheduling issues with the ideal cast forRedWhite and Tuna it has been decided to reschedule the production toJune. All current ticket holders willautomatically have their tickets exchanged to new dates. If they wish a different date within there-scheduled June run of the show, they will be able to do so.

“Finding just the right cast to produce Red, White and Tuna tothe level of quality that our audiences have come to expect is difficult,” saysCivic Managing Director, Steven Koehler. “It takes a high level of skill, experience and endurance to bring themany characters of Tuna Texas to life.”

In the month of November, Civic Theatre will produce theheart-warming two person show, Love Letters, by A. R. Gurney. Take a good story. add two interestingcharacters. Then take away all the typical theater effects and what do youhave? Love Letters by A.R. Gurney. This unique, moving play focuseson the special life-long relationship between a man and a woman, as shownsolely through the reading of their love letters to one another.

Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette season ticket holderswill be able to purchase tickets to Love Letters at a discounted rate,other single tickets will be at the usual full price for MainStage productions.

Love Letters will be directed by Alice Schwind and star Civic Veteran, John David Collier and Civic Comedy Readers leader, Sally Coffman. Tickets are on sale today.

Prices for Love Letters

Full price Adult - $18

Full price Senior - $15

Full price Youth - $10

Season Ticket Holder Adult - $14

Season Ticket Holder Senior - $12

Season Ticket Holder Youth - $8

Show Schedule – Love Letters
Day Date Time

Thursday 11/3/2011 7:30PM Pay What You Can Preview

Friday 11/4/2011 7:30PM OPENING NIGHT

Saturday 11/5/2011 7:30PM

Sunday 11/6/2011 2:30PM

Friday 11/11/2011 7:30PM

Saturday 11/12/2011 7:30 PM

Sunday 11/13/2011 2:30PM

Show Schedule – Red, White andTuna

Day Date Time

Thursday 6/7/2012 7:30PM Pay What You Can Preview

Friday 6/8/2012 7:30PM OPENING NIGHT

Saturday 6/9/2012 7:30PM

Sunday 6/10/2012 2:30PM

Friday 6/15/2012 7:30PM

Saturday 6/16/2012 7:30PM

Sunday 6/17/2012 2:30PM

Friday 6/22/2012 7:30PM

Saturday 6/23/2012 7:30PM

Sunday 6/24/2012 2:30PM

Share Your Thoughts: Rodgers & Hammerstein's Cinderella

2011-10-09T17:01:00.001-04:00

Now that Rodgers & Hammerstein's Cinderella has closed, share your thoughts about the production.

What will you remember about the show? What were your thoughts about the performances? The story and theme? The design? What were the standout moments?

Civic Theatre nominated for Journal & Courier Readers' Choice Award

2011-10-07T12:18:00.001-04:00

Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette is one of the finalists in the 2011 Readers' Choice Awards from the Journal & Courier - Lafayette and West Lafayette's daily newspaper.

Civic Theatre is one of five nominees for the "Best Live Theater Venue" award in the Entertainment & Leisure Category. The others are Elliott Hall of Music, Lafayette Theater, Long Center for the Performing Arts and the Tippecanoe County Amphitheater.

To cast your vote in the 2011 Readers' Choice Awards visit the voting page on the Journal & Courier's website here. Voting ends Sunday, October 9. Winners will be announced November 11 in a special section of the Journal & Courier.

Announcing Adult Classes – November 2011

2011-10-05T12:01:00.004-04:00

Lori Portner, Director of Education and Outreach at Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette, has announced the schedule for Adult Classes in November 2011:

Improv for Adults
* Saturday, Nov. 5, 9 a.m.-noon
* Students will learn the skills needed to perform improv. A fun time is promised for all!
* The cost is $25.00.

Improv in the Workplace
* Saturday, Nov. 12, 9 a.m.-noon
* Learning how quick thinking, collaboration and other improv skills can be applied to enhance your performance in the workplace.
* The cost is $25.00.

To register for a class, visit Civic Theatre's website and download a form, or call 765-423-7529 for assistance.

In the Wings: Rodgers & Hammerstein's Cinderella. Photos from rehearsal.

2011-10-04T08:01:00.001-04:00

Thanks to Kris Kazmierczak for providing these photos from rehearsal of Rodgers & Hammerstein's Cinderella, the first show in the 2011-2012 Civic Youth Theatre season at Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette.

Rodgers & Hammerstein's Cinderella opens Friday, October 7 and runs through Sunday, October 9 at the historic Monon Depot Theatre at the corner of 5th Street and North Street in downtown Lafayette. The show has sold out; the only remaining tickets are for Thursday night's Pay What You Can preview.

For more information about the show or Pay What You Can, call Civic Theatre at 765-423-7529 or visit Civic Theatre's website.

Introducing Lori Portner, Director of Education and Outreach at Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette.

2011-10-02T08:01:00.001-04:00

Lori Portner has joined Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette as the Director of Education and Outreach. She taught several classes during the summer and directed The Music Man Jr. during an intense four-week summer camp. Lori also directs Rodgers & Hammerstein's Cinderella, the first production in the 2011-2012 Civic Youth Theatre season at Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette. Welcome to Civic Theatre, Lori!

Question: Before you came to Civic Theatre, where did you work?
Lori Portner: I was Education Director at La Crosse Community Theatre in La Crosse, Wisconsin.

Q: What were your duties?
L.P.: As Education Director, I directed our School of Theatre Arts. I taught classes and directed two or three shows per season. I also served as the interim Executive Director for a while.

Q: What did you most enjoy about La Crosse Community Theatre?
L.P.: What was really great at La Crosse Community Theatre was the support from the Board of Directors and my fellow staff. They were wonderful to work with. The kids were wonderful and so were the parents. It was a wonderful little family. I especially enjoyed the technical elements we were able to do in our theater, even though it was very small. It was great fun to create on our stage.

Q: What kind of programming did you have at La Crosse Community Theatre?
L.P.: When I started there, I was doing more outreach than in-house classes. I was going to different schools and teaching after-school programs. And then we decided to bring it in-house, so I was teaching after-school classes but mostly I taught classes on Saturdays for youth. We had a couple of other instructors who offered adult classes in improv and other things, but I was working with the youth. We had seven productions a year, but only one youth production which would be at the end of the season.

Q: When you initially researched Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette, what struck you most?
L.P.: When I first looked into it, I loved how it was really for the community as far as how volunteers were used. What really attracted me to it was the outreach that was being intended – going into the high schools and things like that. I also liked that it was in the Midwest; the Midwestern culture also attracted me to it.

Q: When you made your initial visit to Greater Lafayette, what were some of your first impressions?
L.P.: It reminded me very much of where I was coming from. I had been driving through flat areas, and then all of a sudden there were some hills. It reminded me so much of La Crosse, and it's a river town – I was coming from a river town. I actually didn't realize that Purdue was here, and the Purdue campus was one of the first things I saw because I came through West Lafayette.

It was a very rainy day and when I came into town and the first thing I did was find the theatre. My first thought was that it was very small, not realizing it was divided into three buildings: the office, the shop and the theatre. And I noticed all the one-way roads.

Q: What is it like working with Steve Koehler and Bob Sauers?
L.P.: In all of my adult working life, this has been one of the best job situations I've ever had. We work together really well. Steve and Bob have been nothing but supportive. If I have any questions, no matter how busy they are, they take the time to help me out and make sure I have everything I need. As far as making me feel comfortable in the town, Steve drove me around so I could see where things are. I know if there's anything I need or have questions about, Steve and Bob are right there and they will take the time to help me. I love the working environment we have at Civic.

Q: Your first experiences have included directing The Music Man Jr. and Cinderella, working with the acting troupe and heading the Civic Youth Theatre play-reading committee. What have been your impressions about Civic's volunteers?
L.P.: My first impression has been just how Civic Theatre is so community focused. When I started, I had a one-week camp and I met the young adults that were my counselors who have been doing Civic for a long time: Abby McClure, Chris Allen, Elaine Griffin and Bailey Rosa. I heard about Civic's history, how they had grown up doing it and how they were returning to help with it. That is incredible the theatre has that type of legacy with these kids that grow up in the theatre and come back as adults to keep it going. I love that. And they were so willing to do whatever it took to make camps a wonderful experience for the next round of kids who were coming up through the ranks. Those four young adults that I got to work with are so dear to me. They were the first ones here in Lafayette that I worked with closely. I felt so welcome. I felt their love for the theatre, and I couldn't help but fall in love with the theatre through them. I love that sense of feeling that theatre can provide not only a creative outlet but also a place you can feel safe to express yourself and you're with like-minded beings. You have this sense of community and sense of family and it is so strong with Civic Theatre.

Q: What is your first memory of theatre?
L.P.: I was a tween and went to see Godspell at the La Crosse Community Theatre and there was an especially attractive young man in the show. I remember at intermission they were giving grape juice. All my friends wanted grape juice but didn't want to go up to get it. I said, "Oh, I'll go get it" because the attractive young man was serving the grape juice. I go up there and have all these little cups of grape juice and I fell off the stage. The stage was three feet off the ground. And all I remember is falling and grape juice is flying through the air. My first reaction is to turn around and see if the attractive young man is watching, but luckily he had left the stage. I can't see my friends because they're all on the floor laughing so hard. And this very kind older gentleman in the front row said, "Honey, are you okay?" That's the first memory I have as an audience member.

My second memory was – again, as a tween – I was in Annie Get Your Gun. I was in junior high and I was so excited I was cast. I had one line - just walk out and I say my line. So of course my first performance I walked out and went blank. I stood there and looked at the faces of the kids around me, thinking, "Are you going to say something?" They covered my back, but I am glad to say I was able to restore my credibility. The rest of the performances I did say my line. I was in every show after that all through high school and in my yearbook, yes, I was granted the honor of being named the Best Actress of my class.

Q: Why do you like theatre?
L.P.: I like theatre for so many reasons. I have witnessed so many transformations of kids, of people, after they have discovered theatre. They found a way to express themselves; they found a place where they feel safe and comfortable. I have found that theatre is one of the most accepting art forms. In my experience, everyone is welcome. No matter their race, their sexual orientation, their religion, their whatever … they will be accepted in a theatre family. It seems like a big melting pot where we all come together and I love that. It has not been my experience that people are judgmental because they're going to create an alternate reality where they can feel safe to express themselves. Working with kids through all the years, there are moments I can pick out when a parent has expressed a change in a child, or a teacher has or the children themselves. That is so heartwarming.

The other thing is that theatre pushes us. I love theatre that makes us think, that takes us out of our comfort zone, that makes us look at the world around us with different eyes. It teaches us different things. It is a wonderful teacher with the stories that are told. I love walking out of a theatre going, "Wow. I just have to sit and digest for a while."

Q: Who are your favorite playwrights?
L.P.: David Mamet; I love Mamet. I'm partial to him because my senior project was Oleanna. I love shows that have two or three characters and they're character driven. Oscar Wilde is by far one of my favorites. I also am a fan of Ibsen.

Q: What are your favorite plays?
L.P.: I like small-cast plays. I love Oleanna. I love 'night, Mother. I love God of Carnage, I really enjoy that show. I love anything by Oscar Wilde.

Q: What is your favorite part of the theatre process?
L.P.: I hate auditions because I hate saying no. I want to cast any child who comes to me to be in a show. My costumer in La Crosse would give me a limit of how many actors I could add to the cast. I enjoy the audition process because I like to look at actors and mold them in my mind into the characters, but I hate to say no. My favorite part is when we are working on characters and discussing motive, characterization and getting into the minds of these characters.

Q: What is your favorite theatre job?
L.P.: I love acting, but being a dramaturg or stage manager is my favorite. I love dramaturgy because I love getting into the history of the show. And stage managers get to boss people around.

Q: How would you finish this statement: "If I didn't work in theatre, I would ..."?
L.P.: "I would be working with crime victims." That's what I used to do. That work was fulfilling to help victims.

In the Wings: Rodgers & Hammerstein's Cinderella. Meet Sydney Cason.

2011-10-01T08:01:00.000-04:00

Sydney Cason plays Cinderella in Rodgers & Hammerstein's Cinderella, the first production of the 2011-2012 Civic Youth Theatre season at Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette.

Question: Why did you want to be part of Rodgers & Hammerstein's Cinderella?
Sydney Cason: I was just getting back from New Zealand - we had been there all of July - and I saw the Facebook message about auditions. I thought, "I'm not doing anything right now." It's also a new director, Lori Portner, so I was looking forward to audition in front of someone new, which is a fun experience. I also really like the Rodgers and Hammerstein version of Cinderella. I think it's got good music.

Q: How would you describe Cinderella?
S.C.: A lot of Cinderellas in other versions tend to be "Woe is me, I can't do anything for myself." One of the beautiful things about the Rodgers and Hammerstein version is that she's more of a go-getter. She still needs the help of other characters like The Fairy Godmother, but she is able to imagine what she wants. Even if she isn't completely empowered to get that, she has the idea and has the start.

Q: What will an audience most remember or enjoy about Rodgers & Hammerstein's Cinderella?
S.C.: It is a very large cast, which will be striking in the large group numbers, like the opening "The Prince is Giving a Ball," the ball itself, and the wedding at the end. It's also a very good cast, and everyone is well cast and we're all having a lot of fun together. The chemistry between characters is very good as well.

Rodgers & Hammerstein's Cinderella opens Friday, October 7 and runs through Sunday, October 9 at the historic Monon Depot Theatre at the corner of 5th Street and North Street in downtown Lafayette. Friday and Saturday shows begin at 7:30 p.m. Sunday shows begin at 2:30 p.m. For more information or to order tickets, call Civic Theatre at 765-423-7529 or visit its website.

In the Wings: Rodgers & Hammerstein's Cinderella. Meet Adam Mengler.

2011-09-30T08:01:00.003-04:00

Adam Mengler plays Prince Charming in Rodgers & Hammerstein's Cinderella, the first production of the 2011-2012 Civic Youth Theatre season at Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette.

Question: Why did you want to be part of Rodgers & Hammerstein's Cinderella?
Adam Mengler: Sydney Cason, who plays Cinderella, and I played opposite each other of a production of Bye Bye Birdie at Harrison High School. Obviously, we had to continue the tradition because it was fated for us to be together onstage.

Q: What is Prince Charming's goal?
A.M.: Prince Charming is looking for love because he is a romantic and feels like he's floating through life with no cause. Then this beautiful woman comes into his life and he is just enthralled.

Q: What will an audience most remember or enjoy about Rodgers & Hammerstein's Cinderella?
A.M.: They will be enchanted by Sydney's voice and acting prowess. Hopefully they will walk away from the show with the idea that dreams actually can come true.

Rodgers & Hammerstein's Cinderella opens Friday, October 7 and runs through Sunday, October 9 at the historic Monon Depot Theatre at the corner of 5th Street and North Street in downtown Lafayette. Friday and Saturday shows begin at 7:30 p.m. Sunday shows begin at 2:30 p.m. For more information or to order tickets, call Civic Theatre at 765-423-7529 or visit its website.

In the Wings: Rodgers & Hammerstein's Cinderella. Meet Annie Ellis.

2011-09-29T08:01:00.004-04:00

Annie Ellis plays The Fairy Godmother in Rodgers & Hammerstein's Cinderella, the first production of the 2011-2012 Civic Youth Theatre season at Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette.

Question: Why did you want to be part of Rodgers & Hammerstein's Cinderella?
Annie Ellis: I've grown up watching both the Lesley Ann Warren version of Cinderella and the Brandy/Whitney Houston version of Cinderella. They are two of my favorite movies because they're so much fun. Everyone loves the classic Cinderella story, and then you add Whitney Houston and Whoopi Goldberg and it's even better. I really wanted to be part of this.

Q: How would you describe The Fairy Godmother?
A.E.: The Fairy Godmother is very wise and maternal in some ways, but she also makes fun of Cinderella because sometimes Cinderella is foolish and naïve. She also is very loving toward her, and her main goal is to help Cinderella. She wants Cinderella to be happy.

Q: What will an audience most remember or enjoy about Rodgers & Hammerstein's Cinderella?
A.E.: One of my favorite parts of the show is that two boys, Nate Shumate and Nelson Tilley, are playing the ugly stepsisters. I've heard them sing in their falsetto voices and it is going to be something to remember. I think they're hilarious. It's a very fun show, the tunes are catchy - like "The Stepsisters' Lament" and the duet that Cinderella and I sing, "Impossible."

Rodgers & Hammerstein's Cinderella opens Friday, October 7 and runs through Sunday, October 9 at the historic Monon Depot Theatre at the corner of 5th Street and North Street in downtown Lafayette. Friday and Saturday shows begin at 7:30 p.m. Sunday shows begin at 2:30 p.m. For more information or to order tickets, call Civic Theatre at 765-423-7529 or visit its website.

In the Wings: Rodgers & Hammerstein's Cinderella. Meet Maria Guido.

2011-09-28T08:01:00.003-04:00

Maria Guido plays The Evil Stepmother in Rodgers & Hammerstein's Cinderella, the first production of the 2011-2012 Civic Youth Theatre season at Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette.

Question: Why did you want to be part of Rodgers & Hammerstein's Cinderella?
Maria Guido: I auditioned for Cinderella because I've never been in a musical with Lori Portner. I found she's a very great director. It's a classic show and I wanted the chance to be part of it.

Q: How would you describe The Evil Stepmother?
M.G.: The Evil Stepmother is very caring toward herself and her little girls. Her purpose is to tear down Cinderella, played by Sydney Cason, as much as possible and try to be proud of the misfits she calls her wonderful daughters, Joy and Portia, played by Nelson Tilley and Nate Shumate.

Q: What will an audience most remember or enjoy about Rodgers & Hammerstein's Cinderella?
M.G.: I think the classic story of forbidden love is a big part of what they'll remember. It's got really pretty songs and great music and a great cast full of cute little children, and Nate and Nelson.

Rodgers & Hammerstein's Cinderella opens Friday, October 7 and runs through Sunday, October 9 at the historic Monon Depot Theatre at the corner of 5th Street and North Street in downtown Lafayette. Friday and Saturday shows begin at 7:30 p.m. Sunday shows begin at 2:30 p.m. For more information or to order tickets, call Civic Theatre at 765-423-7529 or visit its website.

In the Wings: Rodgers & Hammerstein's Cinderella. Meet Nelson Tilley.

2011-09-27T12:01:00.003-04:00

Nelson Tilley plays Joy in Rodgers & Hammerstein's Cinderella, the first production of the 2011-2012 Civic Youth Theatre season at Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette.

Question: Why did you want to be part of Rodgers & Hammerstein's Cinderella?
Nelson Tilley: I heard from my good friend Nate Shumate about Civic in general. I was interested for my theater career in expanding my shows and getting more experience with it. We heard there were ugly stepsisters in the show and we thought it would be fun to play them, so we auditioned for them.

Q: How would you describe Joy?
N.T.: Joy is the complete opposite of what her name states. She is very annoying and she's a brat.

Q: What will an audience most remember or enjoy about Rodgers & Hammerstein's Cinderella?
N.T.: I think they will be amused by the talent in this production. Our Cinderella, Sydney Cason, is just amazing. She has a wonderful voice. There are a lot of cast members here who are good actors and good singers. I hope they get a hoot out of the stepsisters because I think it will be funny to see men playing them.

Rodgers & Hammerstein's Cinderella opens Friday, October 7 and runs through Sunday, October 9 at the historic Monon Depot Theatre at the corner of 5th Street and North Street in downtown Lafayette. Friday and Saturday shows begin at 7:30 p.m. Sunday shows begin at 2:30 p.m. For more information or to order tickets, call Civic Theatre at 765-423-7529 or visit its website.