Category Archives: Theatre

A Down-home Holiday with TexRep

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The Holiday season is upon us once again. Christmas parties, tree lighting ceremonies, Santa Meet-n-Greets, festivals, craft fairs, fantastic light displays, and other festivities abound. These activities are treasured traditions for many. Whether we do them with family, friends, or coworkers, traditions can be a wonderful thing. They are a great way to make memories, and bring people closer together. However, it can be nice to step outside of tradition and try something new. If you and yours are looking for something new this year, look no further! This weekend, TexRep will bring Greater Tuna back to Texarkana for A Tuna Christmas.

Michael Cooper (L) and Christopher Polson (R) in TexRep’s 2011 production of Greater Tuna.

(Photo taken from TexRep’s online production archives)

Greater Tuna is the first play in a series of four comedies by Jason Williams, Joe Sears, and Ed Howard. One of the things that make these plays so humorous is that the entire cast of twenty characters, of all ages and genders, are played by just two men. Michael Cooper and Christopher Polson starred in the Texarkana Repertory Company‘s production of Greater Tuna in 2011. These masters of costume quick-changes will once again take us back to Tuna, Texas to reprise their roles and introduce new characters in A Tuna Christmas. Much like Texarkana, there is always something going on in Tuna. The big to-do is the town’s annual Christmas Yard Display Contest. The contest soon comes under attack from the “Christmas Phantom”, a vandal who is out to shake up the competition. This and various other hilarious subplots make this a show a real knee-slapper.

In addition to playing over twenty-four roles, Cooper and Polson also double as TexRep’s artistic director and set designer (respectively). This show is incredibly challenging for many reasons, but if anyone can handle it, this dynamic duo can. However, they aren’t tackling this monster alone. It truly takes a village to put on a production like this, and a village they have! A crew of nine assist the pair in lightning-quick costume changes, moving set pieces, running lights, operating the soundboard, and wrangling the six different Christmas trees used in the show. In addition to its impressive role-to-cast-size ratio, this show is also unique in that the crew gets to bow at curtain call with the actors, which is only fitting since it would be impossible without them. As previously mentioned, one of the things that lend to this play’s crazy energy is the outrageous number (and short duration) of costume changes. While each crew members serves multiple purposes, the bulk of their work is helping the actors change their costumes. Cooper says that, while he isn’t sure exactly how many changes there are, he is certain it is upwards of fifty. Each actor plays twelve roles apiece, he explained, which makes some of the costume changes almost instant. In fact, there are some scenes that require an actor to exit as one character and then immediately reenter as completely different character. There are also multiple scenes in which one of the actors plays a single role, while the other plays as many as five characters over the course of a single scene. Naturally, some changes are more difficult than others. Cooper says that some of the most difficult changes to pull off are the female characters. “[They] tend to have more pieces, from wigs to shoes to garments to underwear,” he continued, “It’s all an adventure.”

In a typical season, which runs from May to February, TexRep does four full plays and a Drama Camp Showcase. A Tuna Christmas is a bonus show that was added outside of the regular season as a special fundraiser for TexRep. It is also special in that the production staff (those who design and direct the show) are donating their services for free. One might wonder why Cooper and Polson would ever subject themselves to this insanity again, but the answer is simple — Everyone enjoys it. When asked why this particular show was chosen for this slot, Cooper said, “Chris and I did Greater Tuna some years ago and it was received very well. People have mentioned that they would enjoy seeing it, or something of its ilk, again.” He added that the show is both fun and season-relevant. If you have never seen Greater Tuna, don’t worry! All characters are introduced or reintroduced, so you’ll feel right at home. If you have seen it, you’ll be delighted to know that — according to Cooper —A Tuna Christmas is even funnier than the first one.

If you’re still struggling to find a present for everyone on your list, the gift of laughter is one-size-fits-all (and they won’t want to return it). Whether you are returning to Tuna or visiting for the first time, this wild ride is a trip you won’t soon forget! Y’all come on out, and join the Texarkana Repertory Company for their production of A Tuna Christmas, ya hear?

Performances of A Tuna Christmas will be:

Thursday, December 12 7:30 p.m
Friday, December 13 7:30 p.m.
Saturday, December 14 2:00 p.m. / 7:30 p.m.
Sunday, December 15 2:00 p.m. / 7:30 p.m.

(The theatre doors will open thirty minutes prior to showtime.)

Admission prices are as follows:

General $15
Senior (55+)$12
Student (Child up to 18)$12
Directions
Tickets

If you are interested in supporting your local theatre, please consider a sponsorship, a membership, or simply attending a show. If you are interested in supporting TexRep in a more hands-on capacity, they are always looking for extra hands, whether it be auditioning/performing, ushering for performances, working backstage/in the booth, or helping with set construction.

For information, or questions, please visit TexRep online. You can also connect with them on Facebook, or follow them on Instagram.

As set designer Chris Polson always says, “See you at the theatre!”

The Perot Theatre

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Image result for perot theatre

For anyone looking for something to do, or see, in Texarkana, take time to visit the Perot Theatre at 3rd and Main Street in downtown Texarkana.

The building has been a permanent fixture in the downtown area since 1924, when it was the Saenger Theatre. It was fully restored in 1979-1980 by the City of Texarkana with the help of H. Ross Perot and his sister, Bette.

The Perot Foundation took care of most of the restoration costs in memory of their parents, Mr. and Mrs. Gabriel Ross Perot. The theatre was named in their honor by the City of Texarkana, Texas city council for their generous contributions. It is listed in the National Register of Historic Places.

They have several different events taking place this holiday season. On December 15, they will host the Texarkana Symphony Orchestra Christmas. It is a traditional holiday concert for the whole family. The Perot will also bring back the Holiday Traditions Festival for the second year. It will be a day of fun with food trucks, vendors, crafts, refreshments, Santa, snow, and festive movies including The Grinch and The Santa Clause.

The Perot Theatre has something for everyone. The Perot Theatre recently announced its 2020 series of events to the public. The Perot Theatre Series has been offering shows that are nationally and internationally well-known for 37 years.

Shows coming to the Perot next year include Menopause the Musical, Potted Potter, and The Pink Floyd Laser Spectacular. Tickets can be purchased online or at the box office.  The Perot Theatre has 4.5 stars out of 5 on TripAdvisor based in 85 reviews.  Make this a priority when making future plans. You will not be disappointed.

Travel Through Time with TexRep

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The cover of Madeline L’Engle’s A Wrinkle in Time.

Books have always had the power to connect audiences of all ages across time and space, and Madeline L’Engle’s A Wrinkle in Time is no exception. Originally rejected by twenty-six publishers for dealing “overtly with the problem of evil” and being “too difficult for children” this beloved classic went on to win the Newbery Medal, the Sequoyah Book Award, and the Lewis Carroll Shelf Award. It was also nominated as runner-up for the Hans Christian Andersen Award. It has been adapted into audio books, a play, an opera, a graphic novel and two films (Disney released a TV movie in 2003, and a theatrical film in 2018 starring Storm Reid, Oprah Winfrey, Mindy Kaling, Reese Witherspoon and Chris Pine). The Texarkana Repertory Company (TexRep) will bring this treasured story to the Stilwell Theatre at Texarkana College in November.

Hero Medina as Meg, Gabe Lohse as Charles Wallace, and Culen McElhannon as Calvin. (Credit: TexRep Facebook page)

As with any adaptation, there are some differences between the script and the original book, but the spirit of the work remains wholly intact. Some characters and scenes have been removed or rewritten for brevity’s sake, but the heart of the story is not lost. In this thrilling fantasy/science fiction adventure, siblings Meg and Charles Wallace Murry, along with their friend Calvin O’Keefe, travel through time and space to save their father who has gone missing following a mysterious scientific expedition. Along the way, they dive through wormholes, visit distant planets, and meet all manner of strange creatures. In order to save their father, and the world, the kids must overcome their fears and face an evil force as old as time itself. This is a story about the power of love, and the beauty that lies in unconventionality. As our heroes learn, sometimes the things we see as faults are actually our greatest strengths. Our differences make us unique, and they make us strong. This a story of empowerment for people of all ages, proving that everyone, even— and perhaps especially —children, has the power to change the world.

The cast of seventeen is made up of TexRep veterans and new faces alike. The show was originally intended to be performed by five actors playing multiple roles, but in this production, the roles were separated so that more actors could participate. In addition to a stellar cast, TexRep is relying on technical magic to bring this tale to life. Dazzling projections, colored lights, sound effects, and moving set pieces transport the audience to strange new worlds. These factors, in addition to special makeup and costuming, work in harmony to make this larger-than-life production as fantastical as the book it is based on. From a technical standpoint, this show is quite difficult, with literally hundreds of light, sound, and projection cues. The projections were generously loaned to TexRep by their friends at the Dallas Children’s Theatre. Artie Oliasen, who is an Artistic Associate of the DCT and a dear friend of Cooper, is the one who suggested the show. Cooper says, “I still look for new challenges, and this show both creatively and technically pushed us in great ways.” Although he doesn’t have a favorite scene, since the show isn’t divided into traditional scenes, he particularly enjoys the “Tessering” scenes (which refers to the sequences where the children travel through space-time) and he also finds the Man With Red Eyes (played by Austin Alford) to be very effective.

Director Michael Cooper and the cast of The Outsiders (2017) taking questions at Talk-Backs (Credit: TexRep Facebook page).

Although every play has meaning, the third show of every season is a particularly important one for TexRep. This slot is referred to as the “Educational show”. Generally, they choose a script that is based on some classic work that kids read in school. Recent “educational shows” include: The Great Gatsby, Twelfth Night (or What You Will), The Outsiders, and Shakespeare in Love. This slot is special because, in addition to regular evening performances, TexRep invites local middle and high schools to private showings on a school day. In a world where Arts programs often struggle just to exist, especially in a town our size, this is a great way to introduce kids to theatre and spark interest in the Arts. Of the matinees, Cooper says “To get all these kids to live theatre, to see how involved they get in the productions is amazing.” He added, “There are teachers who contact me at the beginning  of every school year to find out the dates because they and their kids love coming.” In addition, TexRep always collaborates directly with Texarkana College on educational shows in hopes that they function as a recruitment drive for prospective TC students, as well as celebrating the talent of current students. Perhaps the most fun part of these shows is the “Talk-Back” session. Following curtain call, the actors gather onstage in costume and the audience gets a chance to ask them questions. This opens a great (and often very entertaining) two-way dialogue between the students, teachers and the actors about the work itself and the creative process in general that they won’t get anywhere else. The educational slot is unique in that is the only show of the season that holds Talk-Backs. This particular show is also unique in that matinees will take place before the show officially opens.

This show has been a very rewarding experience for all involved. “It’s great to do a show that you can safely bring the entire family to,” Cooper said. While it is a kid-friendly show, he assures that it “plays on so many levels” that the adults will enjoy it just as much as the children. In today’s world, positive stories like this one are essential. Michael Cooper believes, “With all that is going on in the world that just feels so negative, any story that can mention Jesus, Mohammed, Da Vinci, and Gandhi in the same sentence needs to be told. The power of love can never be ignored.” Tickets for this show are available online, or at the door.

Performances of A Wrinkle in Time will be:

  • Thursday, November 14 at 7:30 p.m.
  • Friday, November 15 at 7:30 p.m.
  • Saturday, November 16 at 2:00 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.
  • Sunday, November 17 at 2:00 p.m.

The theatre doors will open thirty minutes prior to showtime.

(Click here for directions: Stilwell Humanities Building)

Admission prices are as follows:

  • General – $15
  • Senior (55+) – $12
  • Student (Child up to 18) – $12
  • Texarkana College (with valid ID) – $5

For tickets, information, or questions, please visit TexRep online. You can also connect with them on Facebook, or follow them on Instagram.

As set designer Chris Polson always says, “See you at the theatre!”

Texas High Twist on Theatrical Thriller

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Whether you’re a die-hard fan of all things creepy, or you’re just looking to get in a spooky mood, many of us like to scare ourselves silly around Halloween. Some of us visit haunted mazes and trails, some attend or throw parties, some read ghost stories, but one of the most common (and one of my favorite) Halloween festivities is the increased consumption of horror films. Even those who might not normally like scary movies tend to indulge in the spirit of the season. Whether you prefer to be scared in person, or from the comfort of your couch, the Tiger Theatre Company is bringing the best of both worlds to Texarkana this weekend, as they open their production of Night of the Living Dead, LIVE! 

A still from Romero’s Night of the Living Dead (1968)

Night of the Living Dead, LIVE! is a theatrical stage production based on George A. Romero’s classic 1968 film.The original plot follows a group of strangers who barricade themselves in a house in hopes of surviving a zombie outbreak. This film was significant in that it began a total reinvention of the horror genre. It also served as the birth of the modern zombie film, which continues to be wildly popular today, even five decades later. It was also significant in that it was highly controversial, since it featured an African-American hero and realistic sequences of gore and violence. Going into this, it is extremely important to understand that this is not a strict, line-for-line, shot-for-shot adaptation, it is a humorous re-imagining and celebration of the original film.

On their website, Samuel French says that, “The play lovingly examines the movie itself, the period in which it was made, and the film’s undying influence on the horror genre.” Although it keeps most of the basic plot elements, there are differences. According to director Melissa Newton, rather than sticking to the film’s original ending, this version has multiple endings in which each character faces different difficulties while trying to make it through the night. This allows the audience to examine these various endings from multiple viewpoints, “through the lens of the 1960s”, as Newton put it. As in the film, all of the characters seem to be at odds with one another, which begs the question: will they kill each other before the zombies get the chance? Plot differences aside, Newton assures that the spirit of the original film is still very much intact. “People keep asking me if the play is scary,” she said, “It depends – if the original film scares you, then this will be very scary.” For those who are looking for a fright, do not fret! Newton says that there are definitely moments that will make audiences jump.

When asked why she chose this production, Newton began by explaining that the first production she directed at Texas High was Dracula. The THS Theatre Department’s technical director, Trent Hanna, enjoyed that production so much that he came to Newton in the spring and asked if they could do another “scary” show, since Dracula was so much fun. “Between the two of us, we must have read [every] version of Night of the Living Dead and none of them had the right feel,” Newton continued. As she was planning a trip to London, she noticed that a new version, titled Night of the Living Dead, LIVE!, was running on the West End. “Immediately, I ordered the script and read it,” she said, “It was perfect”. They particularly liked this version because it contained deeper social commentary, and it was very humorous. Newton says that this is more than just a “horror show”, and she cannot wait to share it with everyone.

The rehearsal process for this show has been quite intense. The cast consists of 38 actors, all Texas High School students. The production also boasts an impressive crew of seventeen. Both cast and crew went through rigorous training in stage combat, and the actors portraying zombies have put countless hours into perfecting their “zombie identities”. The company began by rehearsing three to four days a week, focusing on blocking and character development. Rehearsals became more frequent (and intense) as opening night drew closer and, by October, the cast and crew had begun running scenes with the zombies and technical elements. Due to the heavy use of technical elements in the show, they have also had several all-day tech rehearsals in order to get things running smoothly.

Although they work extremely hard, the cast and crew have fun as well. THS Junior Darby Robertson (who plays the role of Judy) shared a humorous moment between she and Connor Powell, the actor playing her love interest (Tom). While rehearsing a passionate kiss between the two characters, Powell accidentally collided with Robertson, busting her lip. “It is definitely something I will never forget,” she said, adding that the incident will “haunt Connor for the rest of his time in this theatre company.”

THS Senior Alex Cope, who is the chief of the lighting crew, said that he has greatly enjoyed doing tech for this show. Cope said, “My favorite thing about the show is, of course, the lights.” He particularly loves the way the lighting design makes the play “come to life”. According to Cope, when it comes to the rehearsal process, “seeing everyone grow in their scenes and become so invested is probably one of the best things. I’m definitely going to miss this.” One of the director’s favorite moments is a scene she refers to as the “sacrifice scene”. Newton chose not to elaborate on this moment, saying that she would leave it at that, in order to avoid “giving too much away.”

Although every production of any play is special for multiple reasons, what makes this show unique is that it has a peculiar color scheme… The set, costumes, and even the actors will be in full grayscale, as is the tradition with this play. This is meant to evoke the spirit of the black-and-white 35 millimeter film on which the original movie was shot. Special rehearsals were called in order to train the actors and crew members so their makeup would be just right. It will be interesting to see how they play with this effect. When asked about other special effects used in the show, Newton refused to divulge any further secrets. “You will have to be in the audience to see it,” she said.

Performances of Night of the Living Dead, LIVE! will be:

  • Friday, October 25 – 7:00 p.m.
  • Saturday, October 26 – 7:00 p.m.
  • Sunday, October 27 – 2:00 p.m.

Tickets will be available both online or at the door.

Admission prices are as follows:

  • Adults –  $10 in advance/online, $15 at the door
  • Students – $4 in advance/online, $5 at the door.
  • TISD employees receive FREE admission with badge.

(Click here for directions: John Thomas Theatre – Sullivan Performing Arts Center)

For questions or more information, contact Melissa Newton, or call 903-794-3891 (ext. 2408). For updates on this show and future shows, you can find the Tiger Theatre Company on Facebook, or follow them on Instagram.

Can YOU survive a night of the living dead?

The Tiger Theatre Company is making a point to stress that this production has a PG-13 rating, as it contains violence that may not be suitable for children. Parents should use caution and plan accordingly.

Fouke HS Drama Promises Ghoulish Good Time

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Although countless creepy creatures have chilled and captivated audiences over the years, it is impossible to deny the overwhelming popularity of the zombie. Since George A. Romero’s horror classic Night of The Living Dead first terrified viewers back in 1968, the world has been infected with zombie fever. I do not think it’s a stretch to say that most of us have discussed with friends, or at least daydreamed about our plans in the event of a zombie apocalypse. That is, which locations can be easily fortified, where to find rations, which weapons are the most effective, and so on. 

For those of you yet to make your plans, or looking for inspiration, the Fouke High School Drama Department has the perfect production to kick-start a brainstorming session. Don Zolidis’ 10 Ways to Survive the Zombie Apocalypse is a hilarious and helpful field guide for navigating an Undead Armageddon. Consisting of ten short skit-like segments that demonstrate handy hints for staying alive, this silly and spooky show is sure to tickle your funny bone.

Director Josh “Coach” Jones chose this show in the spirit of the Halloween season, allowing the kids to let loose with something “quick and fun” before they start on their heavier and more intense shows. Unlike many productions in which the dialogue is set in stone and actors don’t get any say in their costumes, Jones has given his actors a higher degree of creative control. In this production, the actors were in charge of designing their own costumes, and improvisation has been encouraged (which I am told includes many references to classic zombie flicks). Although most of the actors are in high school, FHS has a tradition of casting elementary and middle school students in the spirit of inclusivity. This cast of eighteen consists of seasoned FHS Drama Department veterans, as well as fresh meat.

Performances of 10 Ways to Survive the Zombie Apocalypse will be:

  • Monday, October 14 at 7 p.m.
  • Tuesday, October 15 at 7 p.m.

Admission will be $2 at the door.

(Click here for directions: Paulette Smith Middle School Auditorium)

For more information, as well as updates on future shows, you can find the Fouke High School Drama Department on Facebook. 

PGHS Takes Flight with Aladdin Jr

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When it comes to entertainment, many people here assume you have to travel to a big city to find quality live shows or exposure to art or culture. Texarkana may be relatively small, but it is not short on entertainment, art, or culture. We have multiple venues for live music, museums, and various incredibly talented theatre troupes. Among these troupes is Pleasant Grove High School (PGHS) Curtain Call Productions. Under the direction of Deborah Sutton, the award-winning theatre department at PGHS never fails to impress. This year’s major production will be Aladdin Jr, a musical adaptation of the Academy-Award winning 1992 Disney film.

Originally adapted for the stage in 2011, Aladdin opened on Broadway in 2014. With music by Alan Menken and lyrics by Howard Ashman, Tim Rice, and Chad Beguelin (book by Beguelin) the stage show does an excellent job of translating the spirit and feel of the film. It is a tale about a “street rat” named Aladdin, a poor young man who dreams of fortune and fame. After rescuing a genie from a lamp, he is given three wishes. Aladdin uses these wishes to pretend to be a prince in order to win the heart of the beautiful Princess Jasmine of Agrabah, while facing the evil Jafar, who plots to marry her and steal the throne. It is a story about friendship, love, and the discovery that one’s wealth does not define their worth. Like any adaptation, changes have been made to the story, but Mrs. Sutton assures that, “The heart, integrity and grace of the film is definitely captured in the stage version.” New musical numbers and characters only add to the fun in this wild, larger-than-life magic carpet ride. PGHS’ production certainly sounds like it will live up to the hype. 

PG students in rehearsal. (PGHS Curtain Call Productions Facebook page)

When asked about the selection process, Mrs. Sutton explained that, “A good high school director never directs the show that he or she wants to direct— They direct the show that fits their kids!” In order to choose a show that best fits her company, she first assesses their talents and searches for a production that will best display them. “This year,” she continued, “We have the trio: Genie, Aladdin and Jasmine. All three must be strong, seasoned performers. We are blessed with a great company that can support our lead trio.” The sheer size of the company alone is impressive, with a total of three hundred cast members, ranging from sixth to twelfth grade. 

With a show as big as this, preparations can be intense. The cast went through “musical boot camp”, where they were introduced to the show, as well as the design concept and the movement requirements. The cast was also given instruction on vocal work, as well as an extended workout regimen to be performed daily. In addition, the students had to prepare their background history and family tree, as they studied customs and traditions of the Arab nations. In addition to rehearsals during school hours, the company also rehearses three nights a week, where they go over scene work and choreography.

Cast members pose for a picture while rehearsing the tap number for “Friend Like Me”. (PGHS Curtain Call Productions Facebook page)

Mrs. Sutton’s favorite part of the rehearsal process, are what she calls “Light Bulb” moments, which can come after a particularly difficult scene or bit of choreography. “Any moment that ‘light bulb’ pops on and a student ‘gets it’ – That’s our favorite moment!” she explained. When asked about the cast members’ favorite number in the show, she said that they particularly enjoy “Friend Like Me”, which she describes as “Eight minutes of amazing fun”.  

The best part of all? Admission is completely free! The organization prides themselves on being “Family-Friendly and Always Free”. However, with a production of this size, you must have a ticket to ensure entry. Free tickets will be available in the PGHS Main Office starting October 25th. For more information, or questions, please call 903-832-8005.

Performances of Aladdin Jr will be:

  • November 8th – 7 p.m.
  • November 9th – 7 p.m.
  • November 10th – 3 p.m.

(Click here for directions: Pleasant Grove Performing Arts Center)

In the meantime, be sure to follow PGHS Curtain Call Productions’ on Facebook for more information and some cool content, like behind-the-scenes pictures and videos of the cast— Like this video of Aladdin Jr cast members flash-mobbing a PG Faculty meeting.You can also find them on Instagram.

Come let PGHS show you a whole new world!

Christmas: It’s a Major Production

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In a world as negative as ours can be, it is wonderful to know that places like The Silvermoon Children’s Theatre (SCT) still exist. Located in downtown Texarkana on Broad Street, SCT is truly a staple of our community. SCT has given children a safe and positive environment in which to learn and grow, offering what they aptly call “Life training in disguise”. It is a place to be silly and creative, as well as a place to discover abilities, encourage imagination, learn life skills, make lasting

The cast meets with the directors for the first time. (Credit: SCT Facebook page)

friendships, and sharpen talents. It is also a place to find and foster a lifelong passion in an art that is often overlooked in the age of movies, video games, television, and streaming services. Do not let the words “Children’s Theatre” fool you. You would be hard-pressed to find a more talented, passionate, dedicated and professional group of people.

The final show of SCT’s 2019 season is a musical adaptation of one of the most beloved (and perhaps most quoted) holiday movies of all time, A Christmas Story: The Musical. With music and lyrics by Pasek & Paul ( Dear Evan Hansen, The Greatest Showman and James and The Giant Peach) and book by Joseph Robinette (Charlotte’s Web, The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe, Anne of Green Gables), this show should be a blast. Although their version of the musical opened on Broadway in 2012, the show is still touring nationally. Just like the film, the story takes place in Indiana in the

Iconic scenes from A Christmas Story. (Credit: MGM / Warner Bros.)

1940s. It follows young Ralphie Parker, who tells everyone who will listen (generally in one breath) that he wants a Red Ryder Carbine Action Range Model Air Rifle “with a compass in the stock and a thing that tells time” for Christmas, despite protests from every adult he encounters. The film accurately and hilariously captures the madcap whirlwind that is the holiday season, growing up in a crazy family, and how tough it is to be a kid.

The kick-line rehearsing for “A Major Award”. (Credit: SCT Facebook page)

Rehearsals for this production began shortly after the casting announcement at the end of August. The show boasts an impressive cast of thirty-five actors. The principal cast of nine and the Adult/Kid Ensembles of twenty-six range in age from 7-50 years old. When discussing the show how the stage version compares to the film, Susannah Linnett, one of SCT’s directors, explained that the story doesn’t differ much from the movie, but the scenes where Ralphie’s imagination run away with him get a big musical treatment. She also explained that you get more insight into Ralphie’s parents (Mom and the Old Man), which you don’t really get in the film. “There’s even a greater sense of closure with the musical,” she said, “[You get] A feel good moment instead of ‘He got his gun, yay!'”. Mrs. Linnett’s two favorite musical numbers from the show are “Up on Santa’s Lap”, which will feature an actual slide on stage, and “You’ll Shoot Your Eye Out”, a tap dancing number named after the main catchphrase from the film, which is performed by Ralphie’s teacher. The Silvermoon Children’s Theatre will bring this treasured story to life in late November.

Performances of A Christmas Story: The Musical will be:

  • Thursday, November 21 – 7 p.m.
  • Friday, November 22 – 7 p.m.
  • Saturday, November 23 – 10:30 a.m., 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.
  • Sunday, November 24 – 2 p.m.

Tickets will go on sale soon. For more information on this production, or the Silvermoon Children’s Theatre in general, you may email them or find SCT on Facebook and Instagram, or visit their website.

Behind The Curtain at TexRep

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If you’re anything like me, you have always enjoyed seeing how things work. It isn’t enough just to see the outside of things, you need to crack them open and see the moving parts. You like finding out what makes things tick. It is the desire to satisfy this curiosity that lead me to discover one of my favorite activities: working backstage on theatrical productions. I have been working with the Texarkana Repertory Company (TexRep) for five years, which is where I discovered my love of working backstage crew.

While I enjoy working in the lighting booth, my favorite crew position is that of Stage Manager. Maybe you have heard that term before, and maybe you haven’t. Essentially, a Stage Manager is the person in charge of everything that happens backstage. A Stage Manager has many responsibilities. This includes, but is not limited to, assisting the director, keeping time, running book (keeping up in the script, making sure that the actors are saying their lines correctly and giving them lines if they need them), moving set pieces and scenery, setting props, helping actors with quick costume changes, directing other stage crew members, and more. In a nutshell, your job is to ensure that the play runs as smoothly as possible. This is both very exciting and slightly nerve-wracking.

As a Stage Manager, you need to be patient, proficient at taking and giving directions, good at listening and communicating, and polite yet firm. You also need good time management and organizational skills, and you mustn’t be easily distracted or frustrated. Besides those skills, you will need actual tools to help you be successful. I have found that it is very helpful to make checklists, and check everything on those lists at least twice. I also make myself a Stage Manager’s kit for every show. This may include bandages, pain medication, multiple small flashlights, cough drops, mints, breath freshening strips, a lint roller, tissues, writing utensils, Post-It notes, and anything else that I think might be useful to myself or my actors. If I had to offer advice, I would say that making sure your actors and fellow crew members like and respect you is key. Nobody wants to be stuck backstage with someone they cannot stand. Though it is a theatrical production, it is best that there is very little drama involved. In the words of creative director Michael Cooper, “Keep the drama on the stage”.

If you are not interested in Stage Managment, there are plenty of other volunteer opportunities available. TexRep is always looking for lighting or sound board operators, stage crew, ushers for performances, and people who are interested in set construction. If you would prefer to be on stage, auditions are always open to everyone (within the casting requirements for the play). Experience in these areas is welcome, but generally not required.

Some people might say that peeking behind the curtain ruins the magic, but to me, it only heightens it. Not only do you get to see the play as the audience sees it, you also get to see everything that they can’t. It’s like watching a live behind-the-scenes featurette and gag reel unfold in front of you. I also enjoy being a part of every step of the theatrical process. It is incredibly satisfying to see a show go off without a hitch, or see the actors nail a scene they had trouble with at the beginning. There’s no greater feeling than a job well done. I would highly recommend this activity to anyone, but especially to those who have an interest in theatre.

For more information on our season or volunteer opportunities, please visit TexRep online or on Facebook. You can also follow us on Instagram.

As set designer Chris Polson always says, “See you at the theatre!”

Tex*Rep Rolls with Ogres and Giant Peaches

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A lovable ogre and a giant peach launch Tex*Rep’s 28th season.

Shrek The Musical opens on Friday, May 4th at 7:30, with performances on Saturday evening at 7:30, and on Sunday at 2:00 at the Stilwell Theatre in the Texarkana College Humanities Building.

Shrek will run on the same schedule the following weekend (11th-13th). The director has informed the cast that at least one Saturday matinee might be added if needed to keep up with demand. The theater will open thirty minutes before show time, so audeince members should arrive early to get the best seats.

Shrek The Musical is based on the 2001 Dreamworks film. First opening in 2008, the show ran on Broadway for two years, and has been on multiple tours domestically and abroad ever since. It has been nominated for twelve Drama Desk and Tony Awards.

Following Shrek, Tex*Rep’s annual Drama Camp will take place June 11th-23rd. This summer’s show is James and the Giant Peach, Jr., a musical based on the book by Roald Dahl.

Over two weeks, young actors from kindergarten to college freshmen learn and perform an entire show. This is a valuable opportunity to make new friends, get to know the local theatre organization, and learn lessons that will last for years to come. It is truly a fun and educational experience for all involved. No prior experience necessary.

There are only spaces available for the first 100 registrants, so it is best to act quickly.

Tex*Rep will be offering Drama Camp scholarships, but they must be applied for and approved in advance.

They also offer the option either to register and pay online, or fill out a paper application to mail in.

Public performances (Showcases) will be Friday, June 22 at 7:30pm and Saturday, June 23 at 7:30pm.

For any questions or concerns on Tex*Rep’s Drama Camp, email artistic director Michael Cooper.

For more information, news about upcoming shows, archives of past shows, volunteer opportunities, memberships, and much more, be sure to visit Tex Rep online. You can also find the Texarkana Repertory Company on Facebook and on Instagram (@texreplife). Make ticket reservations online or by phone at (903) 831-7827.

Hip-Hop Hamilton

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Jamie Williamson

Alexander Hamilton’s a prominent figure in history, the face of the American ten-dollar bill, considered one of America’s founding fathers, is causing quite a stir in today’s modern America. Hamilton, a new hit Broadway show based on Alexander Hamilton’s life is taking America by storm with its unconventional approach to music theatre.hamilton-the-musical-official-broadway-poster-3

Lin-Manuel Miranda is the creator of Hamilton. Miranda came up with the idea for the show after reading Ron Chernow’s biography of Alexander Hamilton. Miranda thought Hamilton’s story sounded like a hip-hop origin story. After he read it, he found it written so well it got him off the island he was living on.

Hamilton is throwing everyone off with its heavy use of rap and hip-hop throughout the score. When you listen to the cast album you almost expect the songs would come from the radio. Using hip-hop to tell Hamilton’s story is a new and inventive way to bring life to the Broadway musical theater scene. Hamilton has opened a new door for hip-hop in musical theater.

Hamilton is unconventional because it features a very diverse cast to play a very white past. Miranda is telling America’s history with people who look like America today. It also does not take away from the story or history at all. If anything it makes the history seem more real and the struggle the founding fathers went through relatable to a younger audience.

This play will be a part of history, like the story it is telling. It has been featured on 60 Minutes and Lin-Manuel Miranda has been interviewed on The Tonight Show. This is all unusual for a Broadway show. It is definitely worth the time to look up the cast album and listen to the cast tell the story of Alexander Hamilton.

http://www.newyorker.com/magazine/2015/02/09/hamiltons