 By Mary Boyle In the world of the Olympics, the US Women's Rowing team is a dynasty: they haven't lost a world championship or a gold medal in over a decade, making them the most dominating sports team in history, despite the fact that the women in the boat change in every competition. Our country has a seemingly endless supply of very talented women rowers, and we owe it all to Title IX — the Education Amendments Act of 1972 that states: "No person in the United States shall, on the basis of sex, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any education program or activity receiving Federal financial assistance;" that, and a crew of women rowers from Yale who decided to take a stand. It's a legendary story that is still being written, but the time to tell it is now, and the person to tell it is playwright Alice Austen, who specifically chose the First Stage Young Company to stage the World Premiere of Girls in the Boat. Directed by Milwaukee's Marcella Kearns, Girls in the Boat focuses on that famous team of women from Yale, but spans the entire history of women in rowing, while speaking to the wider subject of equality for women, in general. The characters of the play are composites of many rowers; as such, they are given their position in the boat instead of names: Kayla Salter as Bow, Emily Fedewa as Girl 2, Mary Jensik as Girl 3, Molly Boyle as Girl 4, Ila Koch as Girl 5, Mathilde Prosen-Oldani as Girl 6, Reese Parish as Girl 7, Selma Rivera as Coxswain, Sylvie Arnold as Stroke, Jennie Babisch as Coach/Dad and Kate Lepianka as a male Journalist and Rower. Acclaimed writer, producer, playwright, and novelist, Alice Austen, happens to live right here in Milwaukee; her grandfather was a rower, and her sons are both First Stage alumni and rowers. When John Maclay, Director of Artistic Development at First Stage, found out one of the student's parents was a playwright, a collaboration developed, and the outcome is an ode to rowing, as well as a timely comment on equality for women. The play is remarkable in that the writer and the entire cast and crew of this production, save the assistant stage manager, are women, including the handful of male characters in the play, and the reason this is remarkable is that it was not intentional The play, itself, has a lyrical rhythm, like the oars of the rowers, and it is fast-paced, engaging, funny, inspiring, emotional, and powerful. First Stage is known for supporting new works, which is a risk, but this production demonstrates why taking those risks is so important, beyond being an incredible opportunity for the local theatre community. The First Stage Young Company, consisting primarily of High School aged students, has never failed to impress me, and is truly one of the best kept theatre secrets in the area. Watching this play, you are seeing history being made, but I feel that the play, itself, is also history being made, and we are so lucky to be able to witness its beginnings. This is an opportunity you do not want to miss. Girls in the Boat runs through December 16th at the Milwaukee Youth Arts Center, located at 325 W. Walnut Street in Milwaukee. Tickets are available by calling (414) 267-2961 or online at www.firststage.org. About First Stage First Stage is one of the nation’s leading theaters for young people and families. First Stage touches hearts, engages minds and transforms lives by creating extraordinary theater experiences through professional theater productions that inspire, enlighten and entertain. Its Theater Academy, the nation’s largest high-impact theater training program for young people, fosters life skills through stage skills and serves over 2,100 students each year. As Wisconsin’s leader in arts-integrated education in schools, First Stage’s dynamic Theater in Education programs promote literacy, character building and experiential learning throughout the curriculum, serving over 20,000 students each year. First Stage was selected to participate in the Partners in Education program of the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts (2012), and was the recipient of the Milwaukee Business Journal’sEureka Award, recognizing creativity and innovation in business, education and the arts for its Next Steps program for students on the autism spectrum (2013, 2015). First Stage is a member of TYA/USA, the American Alliance for Theatre and Education, the Wisconsin Alliance for Arts Education, Milwaukee Arts Partners and is a cornerstone member of the United Performing Arts Fund (UPAF).
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 Mary MacDonald Kerr, Eva Nimmer, Sara Zientek, and Tom Klubertanz in the World Premiere of "Christmas in Babylon," through December 23rd at Broadway Theatre Center in Milwaukee's Historic Third Ward. Photo by Paul Ruffolo. By Mary Boyle Wisconsin-based actor, playwright, director, and author, James DeVita, is quite well-known in the theatre community; a core company member and literary manager at American Players Theater in Spring Green, he has been seen on stages all over Wisconsin, and his work has been performed on them, as well. Though his theatre education is what brought him to Wisconsin, DeVita grew up in a large Irish fishing family in North Babylon on Long Island, and it is his family and hometown that has inspired his latest play, Christmas in Babylon. Terry McShane (Tom Klubertanz) and his wife, Denise (Mary MacDonald Kerr), are typical Babylonians: working-class Irish with enough wit and sarcasm to make up for the lack of money and social graces. A happily married couple, their greatest worry is their twenty something daughter, Abby (Sara Zientek), who just moved back home and can't seem to find her path; well ... that was their greatest worry, until Terry received an email from his ex-fiance, Kathleen O'Rourke (Laura Gray), who he hasn't heard from in over 25 years. Now a successful Life Coach and the author of several self-help books, Kathleen is in town for a speaking engagement and to spend the holidays with her daughter, Kelly (Eva Nimmer), but she also arrives to reveal a secret that will rock the McShane's world. Reading the description, the play sounds like a drama, and certainly DeVita is known for more serious works and classical theatre, but this play is very much a comedy, and a brilliant one, at that. Working with his friend and longtime collaborator, C. Michael Wright, who is the Producing Artistic Director of Milwaukee Chamber Theatre, as well as the director of the play, the duo have managed to tell a story that is relatable to everyone, that contains sentiments that we all need to hear, and that is actually laugh-out-loud funny from start to finish. "The thing I love about the piece in particular is that it’s funny, but it also deals with a lot of issues we deal with today, like forgiveness and acceptance, and the fact that we’re all part of a larger family," said Wright. "In this play," DeVita explained, "Terry’s being challenged to think differently. And he resists it for a long time, or dismisses it, or makes fun of it, or this and that. I think the world today is being challenged to think differently about everything, and it’s a lot for some people; it gets overwhelming. But, if you can allow yourself to think differently about something, you might be able to accept it. It’d be a great world if we could all figure out how to do that. Myself included." What makes Babylon work is the realness of the characters, who could not have been cast any better. Despite their Long Island accents, you will recognize yourself and people you know in these people; their struggles are our struggles and, because they are so familiar, watching the play feels like reconnecting with old friends; combine that with the intimacy of the Broadway Theatre Center's black box Studio Theatre and incredibly engaging writing, and the time passes quite pleasantly and almost too quickly. When all is said and done, Babylon is not the dramatic redemption of A Christmas Carol, nor the magical fantasy of The Nutcracker, yet it leaves you with a magical redemption; a simple, yet profound, peacefulness, like a quiet winter night by the fire. This is a thoroughly modern holiday tale that has all the wisdom and heart of a classic. CHRISTMAS IN BABYLON runs Nov. 21 to Dec. 23 at the Broadway Theatre Center’s Studio Theatre, located at 158 N. Broadway in Milwaukee's Historic Third Ward. For tickets, call 414.291.7800 or visit milwaukeechambertheatre.com. About Milwaukee Chamber Theatre Milwaukee Chamber Theatre, Milwaukee's third largest non-musical theatre company, has long been recognized as producing first-rate, thought-provoking drama and a major contributor to the rich cultural and economic life of the community. One of the city's oldest, professional theatre companies, MCT was co-founded in 1975 by two local actors, Montgomery Davis and Ruth Schudson, who envisioned a space where audiences could open their minds to new theatrical ideas and Milwaukee's theatre professionals could broaden their skills and apply their craft. C. Michael Wright, a local director and actor, was appointed as the company's second artistic director in September of 2005 and, under his leadership, MCT has produced smaller, more intimate productions that feature emerging local talent, expanding its programming in order to develop new voices, such as the annual Young Playwrights Series and the Montgomery Davis Play Development Series, honoring the company's founding artistic director. The Rep Continues Their Holiday Tradition: 'A Christmas Carol' at the Historic Pabst Theater12/4/2018  Milwaukee Repertory Theater presents "A Christmas Carol" in the Historic Pabst Theater from November 28 to December 24, 2018. Photo by Michael Brosilow. By Mary Boyle Though it may seem strange to revere a ghost story for Christmas, Charles Dickens' cautionary tale of Ebeneezer Scrooge is a holiday standard that The Milwaukee Repertory Theater has been bringing to the City for over forty years. After a major overhaul the year before last, the production is finding its new rhythm, employing many of the same familiar faces who bring continuity and a feel of tradition, while continuing to make small adjustments, but there's still no other holiday show in Milwaukee that captures the full feeling of Christmas quite as well as A Christmas Carol at the historic Pabst Theater. There is a slight shuffling of cast members this season, but not many new faces. Most notably, Leda Hoffman takes the role of directing, after having been an Associate Director for three years and an Assistant Director for one, and Milwaukee-favorites James Pickering, who played Scrooge for 12 years, and Mark Corkins return to play Mr. Fezziwig and the Ghost of Marley, respectively. There are several of The Rep's Emerging Professional Residents who make their Carol debuts, including: Sade Ayodele as Alice, Jessica Ma as Ellen, Nima Rakhshanifar as Belle's husband, Hannah Shay as Nanny, and Justin Jones, Isabella Reeder, and Michael Wu rounding out the ensemble. Blake Dava makes his Carol debut as Dick Wilkins and the Ghost of Christmas Future. Returning this season are Milwaukee favorites Jonathan Wainwright as Charles Dickens and Ebeneezer Scrooge, Todd Denning as Ghost of Christmas Present, Angela Iannone as Mrs. Fezziwig and more, Rana Roman as Mrs. Cratchit, and Deborah Staples as the Ghost of Christmas Past. Reese Madigan returns as Bob Cratchit and Christopher Peltier returns as Young Scrooge. Young performers Gabe Smith and Jack Trettin reprise their roles as Teen Scrooge and Boy Scrooge, while Teddy Anagnostopoulos, Ashley Bock, and Claire Zempel return for their 4th year in different roles. Baylee Bates, Jakobie Jackson, Zachary Church, and Ethan Sprague all return to the Carol, and Coco Archuleta, Phinlee Clarkin, Priyanka Guptasarma, Elliot Oquist, Isabel Bastardo, Brooklyn Bates, Cody Sims, Casey Westphal, and Eliel Pozos-Lopez as Tiny Tim make their Christmas Carol debut. Casting some of the area's very best talent pretty much ensures that this holiday tradition remains a holiday tradition (those Milwaukee favorites are favorites for a reason!). Angela Iannone and Jonathan Wainwright, in particular, just knock my socks off every year, and having James Pickering this season is a special treat. The set design by Todd Edward Ivins, which was newly unveiled in 2016, continues to amaze, and especially magical are the times during the show when it snows on the audience. There are still a few moments of "audience participation" that I do not care for, and parents of young and/or sensitive children should take note that the ghosts coming and going are loud, bright, and scary (unnecessarily so, as far as I'm concerned); still, A Christmas Carol at the Pabst has become a part of my holiday tradition, and I wouldn't want to miss it. A Christmas Carol runs through December 24th at the Historic Pabst Theater, located at 144 E. Wells St. in downtown Milwaukee. Tickets can be purchased by calling (414) 224-9490, in-person at the Box Office at 108 E. Wells, or online at www.MilwaukeeRep.com. This year the A Christmas Carol Families Program, which raises funds for underprivileged families during the holiday season through audience donations at every performance of A Christmas Carol, will benefit families connected with Safe & Sound, one of The Rep’s Pillar Partners. Safe & Sound’s mission is to unite residents, youth, law enforcement and community resources to build safe and empowered neighborhoods. Rep staff and volunteers will use the collected donations to purchase holiday gifts for these families in need. Any leftover funds are then donated to Safe & Sound for all the excellent work they do in the community. In years past, The Rep has raised over $40,000 annually toward these efforts benefiting such organizations as United Community Center, Boys & Girls Club of Greater Milwaukee, Running Rebels, COA, Big Brothers Big Sisters, La Causa, Journey House, Sojourner Family Peace Center, Next Door Foundation and more. About Milwaukee Repertory Theater The Milwaukee Rep is the largest performing arts organization in Wisconsin, in terms of audiences served, and one of the largest professional theaters in the country. Each year, The Rep welcomes up to 275,000 people at nearly 700 performances of 15 productions, ranging from compelling dramas, powerful classics, new plays, and full-scale musicals in its three unique performance venues: the Quadracci Powerhouse, Stiemke Studio, and Stackner Cabaret. Now in its 65th Season, The Rep has gained a national reputation as an incubator of new work, an agent of community change, and a forward-thinking provider of .vital arts education programs. Under the leadership of Artistic Director Mark Clements and Executive Director Chad Bauman, Milwaukee Repertory Theater ignites positive change in the cultural, social, and economic vitality of its community by creating world-class theater experiences that entertain, provoke, and inspire meaningful dialogue among an audience representative of Milwaukee's rich diversity.  Liz Shipe, Chris Flieller, and Emmitt Morgans in "Merry Chris-Mess" with In Tandem Theatre Company, through December 23rd at the Tenth Street Theatre. Photo by Mark Frohna. By Mary Boyle In Tandem Theatre Company has developed a reputation for irreverent alternative holiday shows, and this year is no exception. Do the holiday classics make you ill? Are you looking for a grown up night out that doesn't include any solemn holiday spirit? If National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation is more your speed than It's A Wonderful Life, then Merry Chris-Mess is the holiday show for you! Written by Anthony Wood, of Cudahy Caroler Christmas fame, with additional material by Lee Becker and Sean McKenna, Merry Chris-Mess is one act of silly songs and skits and one act of an It's A Wonderful Life parody called "It's a Life," interspersed with carols rewritten with south side flare by the Cudahy Carolers, including a little gem called, "O Come Let's Do A Fish Fry." Nothing pertaining to Christmas is sacred: there's a dirty Santa, greedy elves, and toy commercials that go horribly wrong, but "It's A Life" is where the show really derails Christmas into the gutter. Zach Thomas Woods is a brilliant Jimmy Stewart as George Bailey, if Jimmy Stewart as George Bailey was a very crass and angry man. Chris Flieller as Mr. Potter is just as crotchety as the Mr. Potter in the classic film, but with a massive flatulence problem. You get the idea. Directed by Jane Flieller, with music direction by Josh Robinson, Merry Chris-Mess features a very talented cast of 8, including the aforementioned Chris Flieller and Zach Thomas Woods, as well as Sean Duncan, Anna Otto, Liz Shipe, Gage Patterson, Emmitt Morgans, and Jocelyn Ridgely. The Tenth Street Theatre is a really casual, relaxed venue, and audience members can take their drinks in the theatre to enjoy during the show, which adds to the fun, but this is definitely an adult show and not ideal for anyone who is easily offended by bad language or raunchy comedy That being said, as long as you know what you're getting yourself into, you'll likely have a good time and plenty of laughs. Merry Chris-Mess runs through January 6th at the Tenth Street Theatre, located at 628 N. 10th St. in Milwaukee. Tickets are available by calling the Tenth Street Theatre Box Office at (414) 271-1371 or online at http://www.intandemtheatre.org. Join In Tandem for a special New Year's Eve show, including a champagne toast, reception, and "fireworks." About In Tandem Theatre In Tandem Theatre, a 501(c)3 nonprofit theatre located in Milwaukee, was founded in 1998 by Chris and Jane Flieller with the commitment to produce exciting, innovative and professional live theatre by presenting creative and eclectic programming that enlightens, inspires, provokes, and entertains a diverse audience in an intimate atmosphere. Its name, In Tandem Theatre, reflects the connection between audience and actor, the audience and the written word – an intimate experience obtained when live audiences are engaged in strong storytelling. In Tandem Theatre is committed to creating innovative, exciting live theatre designed to inspire, enlighten, provoke and entertain a diverse audience through comedy, drama, musicals, classics and new works.  By Mary Boyle John Cramer, the Managing Artistic Director of the Waukesha Civic Theatre, is admittedly a holiday nut. His family, he says, goes "more than a little crazy" when it comes to celebrating the holidays, from their Santa collection, to their elf collection, to decorating six different Christmas trees in their home. It's his family's love of the holidays that inspired the show Candy Cane Tales and Holiday Carols at Waukesha Civic Theatre. "The show started out in 2005 as a musical revue performed at the Waukesha State Bank holiday party by me and my wife Kelli, and accompanied by Abby Lorenz," Cramer explained on the WCT blog. "I put the show together featuring our favorite music and stories, with a little bit of history thrown in, and entertained the WSB employees for an hour." Cramer realized he had the makings of a holiday show that could offer something different than the traditional holiday fare that filled area theaters each season and, in 2009, Candy Cane Tales began its holiday tradition; a tradition that spanned seven straight seasons, changing a bit every year. After a two year hiatus, the show returns to WCT, directed by both Cramer and Kelly Goeller, with music direction by Josh Parman-Thao, and featuring a massive cast of talented area residents, several of whom are related to each other. The show is one-part play, which follows the Bickford family: Bill (Mike Owens) and Judy (Jen Hull Anderson), and their four children, Louisa (Cecilia Fleischer), Augie (Tristan Harris), Stella (Emily McCaskey), and Daisy (Violette Anderson). Their story is one any modern family can relate to — the struggle to maintain family traditions between busy schedules and growing children. Louisa wants to spend time with her first boyfriend, Derek (Aidan Thiele), Augie would rather spend time in his room, and even the two youngest and Judy seem to always have something to do that foils Bill's plan for the perfect family holiday evening. The play is interspersed with carols, song and dance numbers, and scenes from popular holiday television classics, such as How the Grinch Stole Christmas, Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, and Santa Claus is Coming to Town. The Waukesha Civic Theatre is, first and foremost, a community theatre, and a well-loved one, at that, which is why it is an especially nice place to visit around the holidays. This show is fun and family-friendly, and it does an amazing job of sampling almost every aspect of the holidays that people love. The cast, itself, is full of family — parents and children, as well as siblings — that add to the community feel of the production. All in all, Candy Cane Tales is just like a candy cane: sweet and reminiscent of the season. Candy Cane Tales and Holiday Carols runs through December 16th at the Waukesha Civic Theatre, located at 264 W. Main Street in historic downtown Waukesha. Tickets are available by calling the Box Office at 262.547.0708, by email at boxoffice@waukeshacivictheatre.org, or online at http://www.waukeshacivictheatre.org/. About WCT The Waukesha Civic Theatre, Inc. is a non-profit corporation whose mission is to provide quality live theatre performances and educational opportunities that will enrich, challenge and entertain both participants and audience members. In July of 2006, the Waukesha Civic Theatre began its 50th season. With that historic season, WCT joined an elite group: according to the American Association of Community Theatres, of the roughly 7,000 community theatres in the United States, only about 100 can claim 50 years of continuous operation. It has undergone many positive changes from its beginnings in 1957 with productions at Waukesha High School. In 1999, WCT moved from a former church to a beautiful new facility in the heart of historic downtown Waukesha. The building, a former historic PIX movie house, was donated to WCT by Bryce Styza, a prominent local developer who saw the power that the theatre could exert in revitalizing downtown. Since the theatre opened in 1957 to the start of its 51st season in September of 2007, over 10,000 people have volunteered and 200,000 audience members have been entertained.  By Mary Boyle If you've never read the 1971 early reader book The Best Christmas Pageant Ever by Barbara Robinson, I'm here to tell you that you're missing out. This is the perfect story for your elementary school-aged child, when they're wanting a bit more than Dr. Suess, but they're still too young for Charles Dickens. This holiday season, though, Milwaukee area audiences are in for a great treat, because First Stage has an incredible new way to experience this holiday classic with The Best Christmas Pageant Ever: The Musical at Todd Wehr Theater though December 26th. What's so wonderful about this story is it relates to just about any small community. The Herdman kids — Ralph, Imogene, Leroy, Claude, Ollie, and Gladys — are the kids that nobody likes: unruly, rude bullies who destroy everything they come near. Luckily, the kids in the community have one safe haven: their church. Well...they did, until one day at school when the Herdmans were stealing everyone's lunches, as usual, and Charlie Bradley snapped; trying to get the upper hand, he tells the Herdmans to go ahead and take his lunch, because he has something better: Sunday School, where there are all the snacks that you can ask for. Unfortunately, Charlie's plan backfires horribly. It's bad enough that his mother, Grace, was dragged into directing the annual Sunday School Christmas Pageant when Mrs. Armstrong ended up in the hospital, but now the Herdmans insist on being a part of it, and they took all the leading parts! The whole community is certain that it will be the worst Christmas Pageant in history — especially those snooty, gossipy church ladies! Directed by Molly Rhode, whose career started with First Stage and who played Mindy the narrator in the 1990 version, the new Pageant features an adult cast full of Milwaukee favorites, such as Jonathan Gillard Daly, seen recently in The Eagle in Me: An Evening of Carl Sandburg at In Tandem, as Reverend Hopkins, and Laura Gordon, who has graced just about every stage in Milwaukee but makes her First Stage debut as Luanne. Karen Estrada, a frequent First Stage collaborator who actually got her start in acting with First Stage in the 1992 production of Pageant as Imogene, is perfectly cast as Grace Bradley. Lachrisa Grandberry as Helen Armstrong and Bree Below as Betty are both regulars at First Stage, and Cynthia Cobb as Connie was seen last season as Glinda in The Wiz. The young performers are double cast. The Holly Cast includes: Liam Jeninga as Ralph Herdman; Isabella Hansen as Imogene Herdman; Iker Velasco as Leroy Herdman; Benjamin Nowacek as Claude Herdman; John Daniels IV as Ollie Herdman; Lina Singh as Gladys Herdman; Ryann Schulz as Beth; Miranda Cecsarini as Alice; Sanaa Harper as Ivy; Abram Nelson as Charlie; Zachary Nowacek as Elmer; Edward Owczarski as Teddy; and, Adelaide Schaetzke, Ailie Synder, Amalia Cecsarini, Sydney McElroy, Shawn Parish, Layton Lal, Zoah Hirano, Marguerite Van Slyke, Sophia Ruddock, and Maryanna Esten as ensemble. The Jolly Cast includes: Derrick Sanders as Ralph Herdman; Lily Miller as Imogene Herdman; Arlo Sturrock as Leroy Herdman; Deyki Miller as Claude Herdman; Brayden Schroeder as Ollie Herdman; Olivia Vitrano as Gladys Herdman; Harper Navin as Beth; Eloise Field as Alice; Nala Patel as Ivy; Thatcher Jacobs as Charlie; Henry Dizard as Elmer; Augie Poppert as Teddy; and, Abby Szolyga, Magdalyn Rowley-Lange, Zaria Johnson, Stella Metcalfe, Oliver Kelley, Reece Davis, Silvia Stoeger, Maura Kuhnen-Grooms, Pietja Dusek, and Quinn Sison as Ensemble. Although the play has been done a number of times over the years at First Stage, the musical is a first, and I think audiences will appreciate the change. The music, directed by Jeff Schaeztke, is very well-written and fits perfectly with the story, expressing big emotions in the way that only music can. I particularly loved the hysterical "Die, Herod, Die!," but "On A Night Like This" was so beautiful it brought tears to my eyes. Director Molly Rhode has been involved, in various ways, in several versions of the play at First Stage, but she is really excited to be a part of this one. “I’m excited to work on a new adaptation of this story that I love so much! I’m very impressed with this new version and am eager to share the show’s message with a new generation of young actors and audiences. I’ve always found this story compelling because of its message of compassion, empathy, inclusion and the power of community. These are critical life skills; and we all need to be reminded of their value. It’s a joy and an honor to work on this material with this group of young people.” This is a holiday theatre opportunity that is truly for the whole family; full of laughs and fun for everyone, but also just the right dose of the real meaning of Christmas: remembering those less fortunate, and the birth of a baby in Bethlehem, long, long ago. THE BEST CHRISTMAS PAGEANT EVER: THE MUSICAL runs November 23 – December 26, 2018 at the Marcus Center’s Todd Wehr Theater, located at 929 N. Water Street in downtown Milwaukee. Tickets can be purchased in person at the Marcus Center Box Office at 929 N. Water Street, by phone at (414) 273-7206 or online at www.firststage.org. Special events for THE BEST CHRISTMAS PAGEANT EVER: THE MUSICAL Pay What You Choose Performance: Tuesday, November 27, 2018 at 7:00 p.m. Pay What You Choose tickets are available on a first come, first served basis with a minimum suggested donation of $5 per person. Doors open at 6:00 p.m. on the day of the performance. Patrons are encouraged to arrive early. Grandparent Holiday Brunch: Sunday, December 16, 11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Gather the grandparents, parents and children to enjoy a festive holiday brunch at the Bradley Pavilion at the Marcus Center for the Performing Arts, followed by a performance of THE BEST CHRISTMAS PAGEANT EVER: THE MUSICAL at 1 p.m., just steps away from the Marcus Center’s Todd Wehr Theater. Along with a delicious brunch, families will enjoy a special visit from some of the cast, fun activities for the kids and more! To make your reservations and for more information, please visit: www.firststage.org/brunch Tech Talks: Sunday, December 16 and December 23 following the 3:30 p.m. performance Following select performances, learn more about the behind-the-scenes magic at the Tech Talks, a 20-minute extended talkback with the First Stage creative team. ASL Interpreted Performance: Sunday, December 16, 2018 at 3:30 p.m. This performance will be sign language interpreted for patrons who are deaf or hard of hearing. Assistive listening devices are also available at the Todd Wehr Theater. About First Stage First Stage is one of the nation’s leading theaters for young people and families. First Stage touches hearts, engages minds and transforms lives by creating extraordinary theater experiences through professional theater productions that inspire, enlighten and entertain. Its Theater Academy, the nation’s largest high-impact theater training program for young people, fosters life skills through stage skills and serves over 2,100 students each year. As Wisconsin’s leader in arts-integrated education in schools, First Stage’s dynamic Theater in Education programs promote literacy, character building and experiential learning throughout the curriculum, serving over 20,000 students each year. First Stage was selected to participate in the Partners in Education program of the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts (2012), and was the recipient of the Milwaukee Business Journal’s Eureka Award, recognizing creativity and innovation in business, education and the arts for its Next Steps program for students on the autism spectrum (2013, 2015). First Stage is a member of TYA/USA, the American Alliance for Theatre and Education, the Wisconsin Alliance for Arts Education, Milwaukee Arts Partners and is a cornerstone member of the United Performing Arts Fund (UPAF).  The cast of HAIRSPRAY at Skylight Music Theatre, through December 30th at the Broadway Theatre Center. Photo by Ross Zentner.  L-R, Terynn Erby-Walker (Little Inez), Bethany Thomas (Motormouth Maybelle), and Gilbert Domally (Seaweed J. Stubbs) in rehearsal for Skylight Music Theatre’s production of Hairspray November 16 – December 30. By Mary Boyle The Tony-Award winning Broadway Musical, Hairspray, is part of the film to stage club (musicals that are based on films) and, in the case of Hairspray, it was far more successful on the stage than it was on the screen. The 1988 film of the same name directed by John Waters and starring Ricki Lake, Debbie Harry, Sonny Bono, and Jerry Stiller, was only moderately successful, but the musical won 8 Tony Awards in 2003, including one for Best Musical. It did so well, in fact, that it caused a film remake in 2007, starring John Travolta, Queen Latifah, and Zac Effron, among others. The second film did far better than the first, but it is truly on the stage that Hairspray shines, and Skylight Music Theatre brings out the best of it at the beautiful and intimate Cabot Theatre in Milwaukee's Historic Third Ward this holiday season. With music by Marc Shaiman, book by Mark O'Donnel and Thomas Meehan, and lyrics by Scott Wittman and Marc Shaiman, Hairspray is set in Baltimore in 1962 and tells the story of Tracy Turnblad (Maisie Rose), an overweight teen who dreams of being on the Corny Collins Show (think Dick Clark's American Bandstand with teenagers). When she learns the show has an opening, Tracy and her best friend, Penny Pingleton (Ann Delaney) head to the studio to audition. The show's producer, Velma Von Tussle (Samantha Sostarich), her snooty daughter, Amber (Amber Smith), and most of the cast makes fun of Tracy's weight, but the show's male star and Amber's boyfriend, Link Larkin (Colin Schreier) captures Tracy's heart, and Corny Collins (Doug Clemons), himself, accepts Tracy for the role. Tracy returns home triumphant, and her parents, Edna (Tommy Novak) and Wilbur (David Flores), share in her new celebrity status. Unfortunately, Tracy still has an uphill fight to get others to accept her, and an even bigger battle to get her friend, Seaweed (Gilbert Domally), his mother, Motormouth Maybelle (Bethany Thomas), and Seaweed's little sister, Inez (Terynn Erby-Walker), along with the whole of the black community in Baltimore, to be accepted on the Corny Collins show, too. Directed by Lili-Anne Brown, with music direction by Cindy Blanc, Hairspray is as fun and campy as it's meant to be, but also incredibly powerful and uplifting. Maisie Rose, Ann Delaney, and Colin Schreier all nail their Skylight debuts as Tracy, Penny, and Link, respectively, while Tommy Novak returns to Skylight to create a memorable reprise of his role as Edna Turnblad. Skylight favorites, Rick Pendzich and Rhonda Rae Busch, are absolute scene-stealers in their various "Male and Female Authority Figure" roles. Samantha Sostarich and Amber Smith are no strangers to the Skylight stage, and are brilliant as Velma and Amber Von Tussle, along with a talented, locally based youth ensemble; however, it is the talented Bethany Thomas as Motormouth Maybelle who brings the audience to their knees. During the song, "I Know Where I've Been," Thomas sings, "There's a struggle that we have yet to win," and though the song is referring to segregation that was still common in the 1960's, the truth is that we are still struggling for equality. While audiences will laugh and clap their way through this production, the message of acceptance is loud and clear, and perfectly timed. Hairspray, The Broadway Musical, runs through December 30th at the Cabot Theatre, located within the Broadway Theatre Center at 158 N. Broadway in Milwaukee's Historic Third Ward. Tickets may be purchased in person at the Broadway Theatre Center BoxOffice, 158 N. Broadway, by calling (414) 291-7800, or visiting www.skylightmusictheatre.org About Skylight Music Theatre Skylight Music Theatre's mission since 1959: To bring the full spectrum of music theatre works to a wide and diverse audience, in celebration of the musical and theatrical arts and their reflection of the human condition. Skylight presents productions "Skylight Style" – bringing fresh approaches or interesting twists to music theatre works, creating meaningful connections, not only between the characters on stage, but with the audience, as well.  One of the highlights of the Holiday Season is the Milwaukee Ballet's Nutcracker, happening December 8-26 at the Marcus Center for the Performing Arts in Milwaukee. Photo Mark Frohna  The cast of "Miss Bennet: Christmas at Pemberley" at The Rep. Photo by Michael Brosilow. By Mary Boyle One of the best ways to experience the magic of the holidays is to take in one of the many wonderful live theatre opportunities in the greater Ozaukee area, and there are many! Yearly standards, such as The Nutcracker Ballet and A Christmas Carol, are wonderful traditions, of course, but there are truly shows for all ages and tastes, from an outing for the whole family to an evening out with your spouse or a friend. Here's the line-up: Sanders Family Christmas with Acacia Theatre Co. Bluegrass fans will love this sequel to Smoke on the Mountain, which follows the Sanders family as they return to Mount Pleasant, NC for Christmas in 1941. With seasonal music, plenty of fun, a bit of drama and most of the cast from Acacia’s recent production of Smoke, bring your whole family to join the Sanders in a celebration of faith. November 17-December 2 at Concordia's Todd Wehr Auditorium in Mequon. A Nutcracker Ballet with Lakeshore Dance This is the perfect introduction to the ballet for young children, as well as being a holiday favorite, and it's close to home! Get into the holiday spirit as Clara, the Sugar Plum Fairy and Herr Drosselmeyer take you an a magical journey one winter's night. November 30th and December 1st at the Cedarburg Performing Arts Center. McMann & Tate's Holiday Shows at the CCC McMann and Tate Productions will bring its brand of adult comedy back to the Cedarburg Cultural Center on December 1st for its annual Holiday Show. A great way to laugh through the holidays with family, friends and coworkers, CCC’s resident comedy cast is still tickling funny bones after 19 years of holiday skit shows. John McGivern's Holiday Tales at the CPAC John McGivern serves up a steady stream of stories from his Wisconsin childhood that recall an age of innocence bounded by snow days and Thanksgiving dinners, handcrafted Christmas toys, trees purchased at the Odd-Lot-Tree-Lot, the annual WE Energies Christmas Cookie Book, New Years Eves in the finished basement and life in the McGivern Household around the Holidays. Saturday, December 15 at the Cedarburg Performing Arts Center. The Milwaukee Ballet's Nutcracker I have taken my children to see this every year since they were four years old, and it is one of our most cherished holiday traditions. Keep your eye out for the goose that lays the golden egg and, especially, the sassy clowns, whose antics change with every performance. December 8-26 at the Marcus Center for the Performing Arts. The Rep's A Christmas Carol In 2016, The Rep completely overhauled this Milwaukee Christmas tradition, including a new set design that will knock your socks off. The show admittedly had some bugs that first season, but those were largely resolved in 2017. This season, the production is under the direction of Leda Hoffman, so the evolution will continue. Regardless, nothing quite captures the heart of Christmas as this timeless tale by Charles Dickens. November 27-December 24 at the Pabst Theater in Milwaukee. Miss Bennet: Christmas at Pemberley at The Rep This relatively new production has the feel of a holiday classic, and is a perfect performance to take in for date night this Christmas season. Based on Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice, Miss Bennet is the sequel Austen, herself, may have written: sweet, romantic, and delightfully funny from start to finish. November 13-December 16 at The Rep's Quadracci Theater in Milwaukee. Dr. Suess' How the Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical Part of the Broadway at the Marcus Center's 2018/19 lineup, Grinch is the perfect holiday musical for the whole family, especially with the new digitally-animated film narrated by Pharrell Williams coming out this season. In fact, stick with the theme and be sure to watch the 1966 animated version narrated by Boris Karloff and the 2000 live-action film with Jim Carrey, for good measure. While you're at it, read the book; there's a reason it's been such a popular story to remake. November 20-25 at the Marcus Center for the Performing Arts. The Greatest Christmas Pageant Ever: The Musical at First Stage Based on the 1971 book by Barbara Robinson, Greatest Christmas Pageant is the tale of the six notorious Herdman children, who only show up to church for the first time because they heard they have free snacks and somehow wind up in the Sunday School Christmas Pageant. Perhaps more meaningful than ever, this story reminds us to love all of our neighbors, and is likely to be a family favorite this season. November 23-December 26 in the Todd Wehr Theater at the Marcus Center for the Performing Arts. Merry Chris-Mess with In Tandem Theatre If you're looking for some grown-up holiday laughs, look no further than Merry Chris-Mess! Silly songs, hilarious comedy sketches, and a parody of It's A Wonderful Life, all at the comfortable and casual Tenth Street Theater; you can't go wrong. November 29-January 6. Candy Cane Tales and Holiday Carols at Waukesha Civic Theatre This local holiday tradition returns to the WCT stage, following a family through the holiday season. Celebrate with a cast of all ages acting, singing, and dancing through classic seasonal songs and stories. The original production was written by WCT’s own John Cramer, but the show changes each year, adding new material to keep the show fresh and new. This WCT family tradition is a must-see part of the holiday season. November 30-December 16. Black Nativity 2018 Milwaukee’s newest holiday favorite, Black Nativity by Langston Hughes is a testament to the power of gospel music, telling the story of the Nativity through a combination of African American scripture, poetry, dance, and song. December 7-16 at Milwaukee's Vogel Hall. Holidays on Ice with Door Shakespeare Though it is a bit of a drive, for those who would enjoy another reason to head to Door County for a holiday weekend, this is it. Door Shakespeare's Producing Artistic Director, Michael Stebbins, will bring to life - with simply a chair, podium, boom box and a bottle of water - holiday stories by American humorist David Sedaris on December 8 and 9, 2018, at Vail Hall, on the grounds of Björklunden, just south of Baileys Harbor. The readings are free-of-charge, but donations are welcome. Parental discretion is advised, as the holiday offerings do contain adult content.  Philip Bryan as The Grinch and the 2016 Touring Company of Dr. Suess' HOW THE GRINCH STOLE CHRISTMAS! The Musical, November 20-25 at the Marcus Center's Uihlein Hall. By Mary Boyle As a child of the 70's and 80's, it's difficult for me to warm up to any version of Dr. Suess's classic story, How the Grinch Stole Christmas!, that isn't the 1966 animated Christmas special narrated by Boris Karloff. I did not care for the 2000 live-action film starring Jim Carrey, and while I've yet to see the digitally-animated version that just hit the theaters, narrated by Pharrell Williams, I will be going into it with a massive amount of skepticism. Live theatre, though, is an entirely different scenario. Like listening to live music as opposed to the radio, being able to see this holiday classic on the stage is a rare treat, and the Broadway at the Marcus Center series makes it possible, with Dr. Suess' How the Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical from November 20-25. With music by Mel Marvin and book and lyrics By Timothy Mason, Grinch! The Musical made its Broadway debut in 2006, topping Broadway Box Office grosses. While the Broadway show utilizes some of the songs from the original animated feature, as well as some of the original text from the book, there are 8 new songs that help to emphasize the differing holiday experience for both the Grinch and the citizens of Whoville. Unlike the book, this story is narrated by Old Max, the Grinch's dog, as he reflects back on this most memorable Christmas, and there is more focus on Cindy Lou Who's immediate family than in the original tale, as well. Philip Huffman plays the Grinch, himself, and dedicates his performance to the memory of Stefán Karl, an Icelandic actor who played the iconic role for 7 seasons before succumbing to cancer this past August. Huffman is a sassy Grinch, who has just enough off behavior to appeal to grown ups and also your average 5-7 year old. Young Max is played by Jared Starkey, and the relationship between him and the Grinch is far more complex, and a little bit more unhealthy, than in the original tale. W. Scott Stewart, who plays Old Max, has a voice that is reminiscent of Boris Karloff's, which really ties the production into the classic that most parents in the audience will remember. Then, of course, there's little Cindy Lou Who, is double cast and played by either Fiona Quinn or Lily Tamburo. Keep an eye out for Grandpa Who, Michael L. Parks, who is good fun. The Grinch is an excellent holiday show for the whole family in that it is geared to be fun for the grown ups in the audience; however, because of that, I wouldn't recommend it for children under 5, both because of content and because it is a long production with no intermission. That being said, for families with children 5 and older, this is a fun holiday romp and a great way to introduce kids to a Broadway production with a story that is already familiar to them. More importantly, Dr. Suess' touching reminder that Christmas doesn't come from a store is as needed as ever, and working to understand and include people — even the grumpy people who almost ruined the holiday — is a message we all need to hear right now. Dr. Suess's How the Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical runs through November 25th at the Marcus Center's Uihlein Hall, located at 929 North Water Street in downtown Milwaukee. There is no performance on Thanksgiving. Tickets may be purchased by calling the Box Office at (414) 273-7206 or online at www.marcuscenter.org/show/how-the-grinch-stole-christmas/ The 2018/19 Broadway at the Marcus Center series has an exciting lineup! Join them for The Book of Mormon, Fiddler on the Roof, Phantom of the Opera, The King and I, Come From Away, and Anastasia.  Milwaukee Repertory Theater presents Miss Bennet: Christmas at Pemberley in the Quadracci Powerhouse from November 13 – December 16, 2018. Left to Right: Jordan Brodess, Margaret Ivey, Yousof Sultani, Rebecca Hurd, Deanna Myers, Fred Geyer, Sarai Rodriguez, Netta Walker. Photo by Michael Brosilow.  Milwaukee Repertory Theater presents Miss Bennet: Christmas at Pemberley in the Quadracci Powerhouse from November 13 – December 16, 2018. Featuring Jordan Brodress and Rebecca Hurd. Photo by Michael Brosilow. By Mary Boyle Jane Austen's 1813 novel, Pride and Prejudice, is still widely considered one of the most popular novels of all time. Romantic, witty, and an insightful look at the Regency period in Great Britain, the story tells the tale of the five Bennet sisters and their parent's quest to get their daughters safely wed, thus ensuring a male heir to secure the Bennet estate. Now, over 100 years later, popular American playwright Lauren Gunderson, along with Margot Melcon, have given Austen fans a sequel to this beloved tale, creating an entirely new holiday play that feels as familiar and quintessential at A Christmas Carol. Milwaukee audiences can get their very first taste of this instant classic with The Milwaukee Repertory Theater's production of Miss Bennet: Christmas at Pemberley. While the focus of Pride and Prejudice is on the relationship between Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy, Miss Bennet brings attention to one of the minor and still unwed Bennet sisters: Mary. Described in the novel as the plainest of the sisters, Mary (Rebecca Hurd), is a serious and intellectual middle child, who has always seemed to prefer books and her piano to the company of people. Pemberley is the home of Mary's elder sister, Elizabeth (Margaret Ivey), and her husband, Mr. Darcy (Yousof Sultani), and where Mary is visiting for Christmas, along with her sister Jane (Sarai Rodriguez) and Jane's husband, Mr. Bingley (Fred Geyer), who are expecting their first child at any moment. Mary is feeling like a fifth wheel until Mr. Arthur de Bourgh (Jordan Brodess), a distant cousin of Mr. Darcy's who recently lost his wealthy aunt but acquired an estate and a title, arrives. The two find that they have a lot in common, but Mary's younger and troubled sister, Lydia Wickham (Netta Walker), who arrived at Pemberley without her husband, is determined to make the newly titled Lord notice her instead of her wallflower sister. Just when it seems as though Mary might have found her match, Miss Anne de Bourgh (Deanna Myers), a cousin of both Mr. Darcy and Arthur, shows up at Pemberley and announces that she is already engaged to Arthur. Directed by Kimberly Senior, Miss Bennet utilizes the same sarcastic and witty banter Austen was famous for, and is sweet and romantic without being sappy; moreover, the play is incredibly, delightfully funny from start to finish. Hurd and Brodess both make an impressive Milwaukee Rep debut, and are wonderfully awkward and nerdy introverts as Mary and Arthur, respectively. Yousof Sultani, who was recently seen in The Rep's Guards at the Taj, is a confident and droll Mr. Darcy, while his counterpart, Margaret Ivey as Elizabeth Darcy, was an easy choice after playing the title role in Jane Eyre in The Rep's 2016/17 season. Altogether, Miss Bennet is a perfect addition to the holiday theatre line-up in Milwaukee, filling a hole we didn't even know existed, much less one that needed filling; if The Rep doesn't pick it up as a holiday tradition alongside A Christmas Carol, it would be wise for one of the other local theater companies to consider it. See it while you can. Miss Bennet: Christmas at Pemberley runs through December 16th at the Quadracci Theater, located located within the Patty & Jay Baker Theater Complex at 108 E. Wells St. in Milwaukee. Tickets can be purchased by calling (414) 224-9490, in-person at the Box Office, or online at www.MilwaukeeRep.com. About Milwaukee Repertory Theater The Milwaukee Rep is the largest performing arts organization in Wisconsin, in terms of audiences served, and one of the largest professional theaters in the country. Each year, The Rep welcomes up to 275,000 people at nearly 700 performances of 15 productions, ranging from compelling dramas, powerful classics, new plays, and full-scale musicals in its three unique performance venues: the Quadracci Powerhouse, Stiemke Studio, and Stackner Cabaret. Now in its 65th Season, The Rep has gained a national reputation as an incubator of new work, an agent of community change, and a forward-thinking provider of .vital arts education programs. Under the leadership of Artistic Director Mark Clements and Executive Director Chad Bauman, Milwaukee Repertory Theater ignites positive change in the cultural, social, and economic vitality of its community by creating world-class theater experiences that entertain, provoke, and inspire meaningful dialogue among an audience representative of Milwaukee's rich diversity. |
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