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The Greenroom Discussions is your forum for issues, commentary and reviews written by you, the theater-goer. It is arranged by the most current item first. Discussions are archived monthly. Please email us at greenroom@theatermirror.com for permission to reproduce or print any portion of The Theater Mirror.
Subject: Beautiful Bodies
Date: Tue, 29 Jun 1999 21:34:52 -0700
From: Janet Morris janmor@home.com
Dear Mr. Stark,
Do you know the play BEAUTIFUL BODIES by Laura Cunningham? Our company
Horned Moon plans to produce the play this Fall and would like to read a
review of a previous production. I believe the play was first staged in
New Jersey in the 1980s.
Thank you so much for any help you can give us.
Gillian Morris
NOPE. THE PLAY'S NEW TO ME; BUT A LOT OF PEOPLE READ Greenroom LETTERS.
Subject: Snappy Dance Theater
Date: Fri, 25 Jun 1999 13:07:55 -0400
From: "Martha Mason" mmason@snappydance.com
Dear Larry,
My company just recently performed at the C. Walsh Theater in June, and an audience member
pointed me to your website.
I am working with a genre that is often more theatrical than "dance", and so would like to
be more connected with the theater scene. At present, I am looking for male "dancers" or
actors who are physical and are fearless. Would it be possible for me to advertise this fact
on your website? Please feel free to look us up at
www.snappydance.com
My email is : mmason@snappydance.com
I look forward to hearing from you.
Sincerely,
Martha Mason
Director
UNTIL I GET AN AUDITION-CALL, WILL THIS DO?
Subject: Reminder: Last Weekend!!
Just a reminder that this is the last weekend for The American Dream if
you haven't already seen it!!! Please check it out!!
See our review at http://www.theatermirror.com/kltadls.htm!
An evening of one-act plays
Samuel Beckett's
" krapp's last tape "
&
Edward Albee's
"The American Dream"
Thurdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, June 10-12, 17-19, & 24-26
All performances 8:00 pm
Old Baptist Church, 1151 Massachusettes Ave. Cambridge
Tickets at the Door, $15 general admission, $10 students and seniors
THIS IS HERE, NOT IN Special Announcerments, BECAUSE WANT TO TALK ABOUT IT.
Subject:
Dear Larry,
It was such a pleasure to speak with you. After our conversation I
realized how much of an advocate of the theatre you are. You have such a
profound respect for this very powerful medium, and your website is
testimony to your committment to Boston's nascent and smaller theatre
companies.
After having jumped through so many hoops and so much beauracracy to get
this show up and going (not to mention the lack of support from the Globe
and other publications in terms of getting our company in their calendar
sections) I come out a little saddened at the lack of respect for
fledgling artists by the city-at-large.
It is so difficult and expensive to stage a show, and there is so little
infrastructure for small arts organizations in Cambridge. We just found
out that if you poster on anything in Cambridge, you can receive a fine of
up to $250 per poster. What other ways can you advertise that wont break
you? How can you ever get a start without a little cooperation from your
city?
We are in this for the long haul. I hope that after we this season we
will begin to forge ties with other companies and make a concerted effort
at changing the environment for theatre in Greater Boston (starting with
Cambridge). Could we make this city more hospitable to the groups that
really push the envelope and stimulate interest in theatre as an art form?
It would only benefit the larger houses.
I hate to make comparisons, but it truly was easier to stage a show in
Seattle than in Boston. Not that it is perfect out there, but it
certainly is much more inviting towards the arts. And I will write my
experiences down as soon as I finish this run. I think Boston needs to
consider what it is missing out on, and stop the exodus of talent to New
York and elsewhere.
TELL US ABOUT THE CONTRAST, JASON, AND I'LL PUT IT INTO THE MIRROR. Subject: RE: joining a theater group
Hi Larry, my name is Joanne. I got your web site from The QP theater manager
Juree James. I am looking to join a theater group on the South Shore, (Mass).
I have no prior experience, but have always wanted to give it a try. I
finally think I have the nerve, and I'm sure it will be lots of fun. Would
you be able to assist me in finding a group or even a workshop that accepts
new members. I would definitely appreciate it. Thank You. Joanne McLaughlin
(McBinky@aol.com)
WELL, YOU NEED THE Eastern Massachusetts Association of Community Theatres
MEMBERSHIP LIST [ http://www.mindspring.com/~ken.lord/emact/ ]
Subject: RE: NEW THEATER COMPANY NEEDS ACTORS
Thanks, Larry.
You've already done a lot with your support and encouragement.
There is one BIG thing you could do for me. If you have an email listing of
actors in the Boston area and companies that correspond with you - I would
appreciate some help getting the black actor and actress we need for the
show. They should be 50-60 but even a 45 year old with make up would be
considered. Any networking you could do on our behalf would be very much
appreciated. Have anyone interested contact me directly at 781-270-0869.
Thanks again. Subject: Looking for space.
Dear Larry:
WELL, THE FIRST QUESTIONS I'D HAVE WOULD BE "HOW LONG?" AND "HOW BIG?" Subject: THANK YOU
Dear Larry:
As a native of New York, I find it terribly rediculous to think I
might get eaten up there by some big scary shark!! These big fish do
tend to turn up at the worst times though don't they?! Every time I
meet one of them, regardless of the city I am in, my creative energy
grows stronger. I have learned from these big fish what it means to
"try, try, again" and to create opportunites for myself in order to
allow theater to always run through my soul.
Do I sound redicoulosly young and idealistic?? I certainly hope so!!
Thank you and let's keep in touch. I will keep you abreast of upcoming
plays.
GO Toward, BETH, NEVER Away From; AND WHEN YOU LOOK BACK, SMILE. Subject: Undeliverable mail: Processing failure
These addresses were rejected:
Subject: Fwd: Undeliverable mail: Processing failure
Hi Larry, Subject: Equity
Hi Penelope,
Regards,
Penelope Morel wrote:
Dear Larry:
LET'S HOPE PENELOPE READS THE GREENROOM!!!
Subject: EMACT TALK BACK
Hi, All!
To get to the Park Playhouse, from 128 heading North, take the Winn Street
exit (in Burlington passed the mall) and bear right onto Winn Street. Take
your 2nd right onto Harriet Avenue. Follow Harriet to the top and take a
left onto Edgemere Road. This will lead you right into the Playhouse Parking
lot.
>From 128 heading South, also take the Winn Street exit, but turn left off the
exit and follow the above directions as noted.
The playhouse number is (781) 229-2649 if need to call for directions or
otherwise.
See you then!
Subject: Fwd: Your Help Needed in article for "Stage Directions"]
Anybody available to help Mr. Harris and his project? If so, please do.
Promoting community theatre on every level and in every way ultimately helps
sustain the arts!
Thanks to Michael McGarty of Harvard Community Theatre for bring this to my
attention!
PHarris825@aol.com wrote:
Dear Artistic Director/Administrative Director,
I am writing an article for "Stage Directions" Magazine looking at the role of Community Theater In the National Debate on the Arts. I was wondering what your theater or organization has done in recent years in terms of lobbying for funding and recognition from either City, County, State or Federal Government. In addition I should love to interview either Artistic or Administrative Directors about their own particular efforts at raising the profile of the Arts in their locale. Please either e-mail ASAP at PHARRIS825@aol.com or call me on 212 265 6845 if you would like to contribute a quote or just your thoughts to such an article. (I work from home so feel free to call anytime between 8am to Midnight EST.) Please feel free to forward this email to others who might have something to contribute to the subject.
SOUNDS LIKE EXACTLY THE SORT OF THING REGULAR MIRROR-LOOKERS SHOULD SUPPORT!
Subject: Anybody have connections to dance reviewers at the globe or phoenix?
I saw Deux Ex Machina at the C Walsh Theatre at Suffolk U on Thursday and was rreally impressed.
These people are really talented, and creative. It was a brilliant collaborative effort, and the sad thing is, they don't have the
backing to continue the show. They need a review!!!! Subject: Festival
Hi Larry, Subject: Theater Works
Hi Larry!
Subject: Julie Needs a Little Help, please...
Hi, everyone!
On Sunday night of Festival (during the 3rd slot of the finals, to be exact),
I met a lovely older woman in the hallway outside the Dreiser Gallery. We
got into a conversation for quite a while, and before I could get her name,
her group association, where she was from or how to contact her after
Festival, the bell rang and I had to bolt backstage and back to work. I
intended to track her down after the 4th slot, but got completely pulled away
by Festival business and never even got back out to the lobby until after
awards.
I would love to know who this fantastic person was/is, and to get in touch
with her again to continue our conversation. Here's the rub...I can only
give sparce details, so I'm hoping someone within reach of this email or
forwarded emails to other Festival participants or audience that you all
might know of that I don't, someone might pick up on this and come forward to
help solve my mystery.
Here's what I know...she was at Festival 'with her friends', is an actress
herself with an outstanding personality and very positive attitude. She's
tall with short, shag-like salt'n'pepper hair, in her 50's-60's. She lost
her husband and two sons in a plane crash, as well as losing another son.
She's very fond of Jacques Brel, but not traditional-type musicals like
Oklahoma or Carousel. Also, on the night of Festival, she was wearing a
long, slit, khaki skirt with sandals, a tee-shirt-like top and a silver band
ring around the middle of her index finger. She also wore another silver
ring that appeared to have a very large silver ornament on it on the other
hand.
If anyone recognizes this woman from my pathetic description, or has any
leads on where she might be from, I would very much appreciate your letting
me know. Or, if you'd feel more comfortable, pass on my email address or
phone (978-772-2545) to her and ask her to call me. We had mentioned her
picking up my business card from the Dreiser Gallery, but I don't know if she
did/could in the rush of things happening.
Anyway, thanks to anyone who can help and also apologies to those who might
consider this an imposition. If you met this person, you'd fully understand
why I'd love to continue our conversation. She's a great lady.
Subject: (no subject)
Larry..thought you might want the names of the three dancers from
M.Butterfly..Teri Muller, Orea Nicolls, Michelle Estrada. Would appreciate
it greatly if you could add this in..(our names were left out of the program,
left out from the verbal announcement at the awards ceremony, as well as
the overhead screen)
I ADDED YOUR NAMES ..... "IN LIGHTS!" ... AT LAST.
OK Larry . . .
What I think the scene with Sheila is supposed to be is the final
dissolution of a man whose fantasies have gotten completely out of
control. In Act I, Jake uses his fantasy women to help solve his
problems and help with his writing and he KNOWS they are just a
fantasy. In Act II, he starts to lose control of them and they begin to
run his life rather than the other way around. The real humor (at least
in my opinion) in the Sheila scene comes from Jake's torment over his
realization that he may in fact be "going out of his mind" and his
overdone inept attempts to cover up that fact from poor Sheila. Imagine
a totally innocent girl winding up in a man's apartment who is talking
to you while behaving like a schizophrenic because he is hearing the
voice of his wife in his head yet keeps trying to act as if he isn't.
Anyway, I believe the more real you play that scene - Jake's frightening
awareness of his possible insanity and the inability to control it -
Sheila's increasing panic as Jake turns into a mad man in front of her
eyes and the wonderful frantic build the scene holds - the more you have
an interpretation that works within the context of the play.
Subject: Jake's Vs Jakes
Hi,
Subject: Re: Jake's Vs Jakes
Okay, let's see if I can defend myself.
Through the first act, Jake is a some pains to insist that those "figments"
are --- and he knows they are --- just in his head. That's why he thinks, in
act two, that he may be flipping out, because he SEES them, even in the
mirror, and they don't go away.
Frankly, for me the play's not a comedy; it's a deadly serious play that
just happens to be funny as hell.
Subject: Re: Jake's Vs Jakes
Larry:
Subject: Audition Postings
Hello,
I was informed that I could post auditions by sending an email to this
address. I hope my information is correct. The following information is
what I am looking for (in the Boston-area):
AUDITIONS
Playwright looking for four actresses (age range 19 - 37) for three to six
month commitment to workshop play-in-progress (possible production in the
Boston area late summer/early fall). Play is about butch/femme experience
in the 1950s in Texas.
If interested, please call the playwright, Jess Martin at:
WHOEVER TOLD YOU WAS CORRECT. LOOK INTO AUDITIONS IF YOU DON'T BELIEVE ME.
Subject: new website
Hello!
I'M ALWAYS IMPRESSED WHEN SOMEONE DEEPLY INVOLVED IN MAKING THEATER FINDS THE TIME
TO CALL PEOPLE'S ATTENTION TO SOMEONE ELSE'S SHOWS! Subject: Thanks
Larry,
YOU KNOW, IT WAS SUCH A STRANGE EXPERIENCE TO BE IN A ROOM WITH SO MANY
FAMILIAR FACES BUT none OF THEM IN make-up!!! Subject: [Fwd: Fwd: Fw: ...no subject...]
Larry-- I know you will enjoy this!!
ONLY THE THEATRE WORLD WOULD UNDERSTAND...
THEATRE TERMS
Eternity
YOU KNOW ME TOO WELL, DON!
Subject: Mime Performance in Cambridge
Hi Larry,
May 8th, Saturday
for more information about the Performance, group or Art of Silence:
www.BlueMoonTheatre.org
Thank you for your attention. We'll be happy to see you on the
performance!
I'D LOVE TO, BUT MY DANCE-CARD RUNNETH OVER THIS WEEK!
Subject: RE: Comment?(on "actors Play!")
I loved your insight. I think sometimes as an actor
I sometimes forget that it is playing---I take myself
too seriously. But really that is what it is---having
fun with it and bouncing ideas back and forth and saying
the first thing that comes to mind. I have too often got
caught up in wanting everything scripted---lines to work
with---and haven't always trusted the spontaneous part of
myself or of acting. For me(and probably most actors) it is
about going back to the child in me---that creative,fun, imaginative
part of myself that gets neglected far too often---tapping into
that and "pretending" or playing "make believe"--yet it is
very organic, very real. It is the very essence of who I am
and what makes me an actor. Well anyway, thats what I think.
TANYA IS AN OLD FRIEND AND WORKING AS AN ACTRESS IN MINNESOTA.
Subject: Actors do play
Dear Larry,
AND ROSANN HICKEYIS AN OLD FRIEND ACTING IN VERMONT.
Subject: Need a character... Get a costume!
An Actor's Guide to Performance:
Hold for all laughs---real, expected, or imagined! If you don't get one, face front and repeat the line louder. Failing this, laugh at it yourself.
Cultivate an attitude of hostility. Tension gets results---on stage and off.
A good performance, like concrete, should be molded quickly and then forever set.
Your first responsibility as an actor is to find your light.
Do not listen to your fellow actors on stage. It will only throw you. Do not look at them either---you may not like what you see.
Always be specific---point to what you're talking about.
If a line isn't working for you, change it.
Stage Managers are NOT actors---ignore them. Keep them alert by never arriving on time or signing in.
Never be afraid to ad-lib to get attention, especially if you feel the leads aren't very entertaining.
Mistakes are never your fault.
Always find something to bitch about, no matter how small or seemingly insignificant. Your fellow actors will respect your professional attention to detail.
Never carry make-up---someone will have what you need.
Never help understudies. (They secretly hate you and want your job)
Do help your fellow actors by giving them notes whenever you feel necessary. And give the notes immediately before they go on---it will be fresher that way.
Speak your lines as if the audience had difficulty understanding the language.
Keep other performers on their toes by ridiculing their performances, and never let them know what you're going to do next.
Play the reality---always be aware of the audience and whether you think they like the show, then gauge your performance accordingly. Why knock yourself out for ungrateful snobs?
The only difference between an amateur and a pro is that the pro does exactly the same thing for money.
Need a character? Get a costume.
Never change anything that is working, no matter how wrong or phony it may seem. When in doubt about an ad-lib, go "whoo"!
Go up on a line? Clap twice, look at the audience, and giggle.
Even if a piece of "schtick" doesn't work, keep using it. The important thing is for you to have fun and feel good about yourself.
MR. BRENNAN HAS BEEN KNOWN TO OBSERVE all THESE RULES RELIGIOUSLY, EVEN
AT PARTIES.
Hi Larry!
I LAUGH A LOT, BUT A REVIEW ISN'T A LAUGH-METER
You seem to know alot about the theaters in Boston. I have been trying to
set up a trip for my drama club to see a play in Boston, but I have been
having some trouble finding theater listings for the last few weeks in May.
If you would be able to help me out, with a site address maybee, I would
appreciate it.
WELL, I'D START WITH OUR COMING ATTRACTIONS PAGE
My name is Jonathon Gass and i am involved with the upcoming show, The
Crucible, by Centre Stage Productions. Centre Stage Productions is Boston
Latin Schools student run theatre group. As you may or may not know, our
school does not fund our program whatsoever. We have limited funds because
of this...
This is where you come in...
We would greatly appreciate it if you would advertise on your site the dates
The Crucible, directed by Sam Grahm-Felson
May 21-23 (i will send times to you when we figure them out)
Our high school program is known for its incredible theatre work. This year
our one act play, WASP by steve martin, directed by ingrid liff went to the
state semi-finals at the Mass. Drama Guild
Thank You for your time....
Thanks again,
I COULDN'S SEE ANY REASON WHY I COULDN'T, SO I DID. Subject: Theater seats Subject: David Hare Interview
Dear Larry,
EXPLANATION: I put a SPOT NEWS note that the "Fresh Air" program on WBUR(90.9fm)
would rebroadcast a half-hour interview at 11 p m on Monday, 26 April, and I asked
anyone who caught the show to say so. Rosann, in Vermont, is the only one so far! Subject: Movietime for Jonathan Silver
Dear Larry,
I'VE NEVER THOUGHT OF JONATHAN SILVER AS AN ACTOR SO MUCH AS A KID WHO LOVES
TO BE ACTING. Subject: The Silk Road
Hi Larry,
The Tremont Theater is housed in the Chinese Culture Institute. The
institute both produces plays of its own through its program Asia On
Stage and also rents the space out to other theater companies.
The Silk Road is an original work by local playwrights Michael Arner
and Stacie Green. Below is the publicity blurb:
By turns decadent and tender, The Silk Road connects the twilight of
the American Jazz age with the eve of China's Nanjing Decade. It
recounts the
story of a renegade filmmaker who comes to Shanghai from the West to
create his masterpiece and swan song -- and of his love affair with
Qian Yin,
a Chinese actress whose initial fascination with his talent is
supplanted by a growing awareness of her own abilities. her
independence increases with
his obsession as romantic and artistic conflicts between male and
female, disciple and master, East and West, burgeon on the director's
set amidst an
atmosphere of creative collaboration and frantic hustling in this
comic tragedy about collapse and the beauties of its aftermath.
Subject: hello
Hi Larry,
WEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEhawken!!!!!!!
Subject: Phantom of the Opera
Hi Larry,
NOPE. A GLANCE AT OUR Coming Attractions SHOWS SIR ANDREW'S CASH COW
IS NOT EXPECTED BACK AGAIN THIS YEAR.
Subject: Show was cancelled
Ken LeTendre
Subject: Re: Show was cancelled
>From: "Larry Stark's Theater Mirror" larry@theatermirror.com
Dear Larry,
KEEP SHOWING UP, KEN! THAT'S WHAT GOT me WHERE I AM TODAY! Subject: Gillis Clan
Larry:
THESE ARE DON'S NEWEST GRANDCHILDREN.
With those genes, though, Chris and "Spaz" may see their children's names in lights some day Subject A Query
Dear Larry,
Would be forever in your debt for answers, although I owe you big time for
past postings and favors.
WOW, I ACTUALLY know SOME OF THE ANSWERS TO YOUR QUESTIONS!
1) The Tremont Theatre is near the far end of the Wilbur/Wang block, in the
ground-floor of a parking garage, at 276 Tremont Street. (The editor of the GLOBE
Calendar recently assured me that it has moved INTO "The Theater District"
insofar as his publication is concerned. A minor victory for me!)
2) I think it was used for a dinner-theater show originally, but it's at least
some years old.
3) Houses aren't really Equity-contracted, so far as I know; Producers are. The
Boston Big Broadway Barns always contract for Equity shows, and thus people think
the properties are "Equity Houses" but that's just a historic convention.
4)I don't think "The Silk Road" is an original, but I threw away the
press-release with more information.
Sorry I don't have that piece of paper. I just made an "archaeological check" of
the piles around the computer, and it's not there. I clean the place up about
twice a year, whether it needs it or not, and apparently this time I was a bit too
early.
Hope this helps.
Subject: More Clamour
Dear Larry,
Fascinating stuff about the Never The Sinner flap--shows the value of
this site where all sides get aired and the somewhat hysterical
(Capra?) "anti" gets balanced by lots of input.
I was thrilled to see that somebody was doing All My Sons--in my
opinion this piece definitely equals Salesman in craft and impact. I
cannot understand why it has not been revived for every war--and we've
had a few since then. Obviously I'd love to do this one myself. I feel
that the central point is that, at the beginning, everyone is stuck; no
one can really go on with their lives until the lies and secrets and
evasions are opened up and aired out. I don't believe that this
destroys them--I think it makes it possible for everyone, even Joe, to
heal.
I was also charmed by the idea that the mother in Menagerie was not
played as a monster--I guess I've mentioned before to you that I've
always thought that any woman who had 17 gentlemen callers in one
afternoon must have had more charm and humor than she is usually allowed
on stage....
WLL, I did GET TO TALK TO YOU FACE TO FACE FOR THE FIRST TIME, DIDN'T I?!?!?
Subject: research
Dear Mssrs.
We are attending Ankara University in Turkey and studying on
American Literature. Having a course named "American Drama" and
studying on Albee's "The Zoo Story" we need some critiques on the play
and working information about the major themes in the play.
Any co-operation will be highly appriciated. Many thanks in
advance.
LARRY STARK HAS A REVIEW, Subject: Equus
Hi Larry,
Subject: Response to Letter titled "Staged readings?"
Hi, Larry:
We've been around since Feb 1998 and so far have produced two showcases of
staged readings open to the general public. Anyone seeking more info can go to
www.webphantom.com/shadowboxing, call our hotline at (617) 695-8867, or email
me at shadow-boxing@usa.net.
LARRY STARK WILL PASS THE INFORMATION ON. Subject: So--Whats the Story, Richie?
After reading your review of "Never the Sinner" and reading Steve
Capra's review... I am wondering if you both went to the same theater?
So, my question is: Do you think its a viable play if it was rewritten?
Subjective question I know, but your review only indicated to me anyway,
that the author should have rewritten the second act. Wish I could have
seen it, maybe I would understand Boston "Theater". The only play I saw
at the Lyric was "Assassin's" and it was excellent.
I THINK WE BOTH SAW THE SAME PLAY, DON, BUT WE WEREN'T THE SAME PERSON SEEING IT!
Subject: Thanks!
Larry,
Before a trip to Boston last week (coming from the Midwest), I found that I
had enough time to go out Saturday night but didn't know any of the local
theaters. A quick search on Yahoo found the Theater Mirror and I used it to
find "Much Ado About Nothing" playing at the Peabody House Theatre.
Without your site, I would have been lost as to art events in the area, so
thank you for running the Theater Mirror!
Next time I know I'll be in New England, I'll check the Theater Mirror's
listings right away!
Kelley Remole
LARRY STARK THINKS HE JUST SET A RECORD FOR GETTING AN E-MAIL INTO THE GREENROOM!!!
HEY, LARRY! When I replied to the Capra thing I didn't know he wrote
more. I only saw the snippet. I just read the rest of it. Wow! First
off, you shouldn't have called it a review. It's not a theater
review...very little of substance about the elements of theater. You
should have called it a RANT or at least a screech, not a review. I
think it belongs in the irate letters section. ---Larry, you know that I
never ever [never say never?]...maybe "seldom" is better...do the letter
thing but this guy hit a nerve. He "Lyrics" this and Lyrics that in his
screed and then takes a hissy fit at the agencies that gave a very tiny
bit of the funding for its season, placing shame on all of them. I
wonder what are his "Real" motives? And... I'm jealous. He left me out!
I can't let the funding agencies, Spiro and the abstract corporative
"Lyric" take all the invective: I have to get in on the praise, too.
Afterall, as Managing Director {until last December}, I not only chose
Spiro as the Artistic Director but helped him shape his season and wrote
the grants that Capra thinks underwrote this "outrage." I'm damned glad
I did. --Just a few more things and you will not hear from me for
another two years...Although "Never A sinner" may be an over-rated
script, it is far from "terrible" and is a legitimate part of the
Lyric's very exciting season...a season The Boston Phoenix referred to
as a rebirth of theatre. --When Darrow pleads for their lives and tells
"us" that there is something lacking in their nature, he is right on!
And that lack had less to do with their sexuality but more with their
lack of a moral center. ---What's Matthew Shepard of Billy Gaither got
to do with the Lyric's production...or, for that matter, Logan's choice
of anti-heroes? The play was written years before those terrible things
happened. Why should Logan write about innocent gay couples who were
persecuted? He wanted to write about Leopold and Loeb and Darrow &
that's what he did. One can argue about how well but not about his
choice of topics.---One of the actors in the production that Capra was
offended by is admittedly gay according to an interview in a local
paper. {Maybe more, who knows? You know the theatre is a place where all
sorts of people with all sorts of disturbing habits and ideas are
encouraged to hide out.} Did Spiro whip him into making his character
a stereotype, a carboard freak? I doubt it. I have done a little bit of
directing & acting in my time and I know that no director, no matter
how commanding a presence,even the great and legendary Spiro, can force
an actor to shape a character without his concurrence.--It is ridiculous
hyperbole to compare the intention or effects of NTS to "The Eternal
Jew." As a matter of fact, Capra's assertion insults me as a Jew.
Loeb/Leopold are never stereotyped or dehumanized in Logan's script
either as Jews or homosexuals. The unfortunate thing is that they were
in real life as well as in literature...and politics...all too
human.---A couple more last things: what's any of this got to do with
the Lyric's integrity, its budget or shame on Logan? Nothing! Capra
should be happy with the Lyric. It is putting on plays that stir things
up and, obviously, he got his money's worth because it got him
ridiculously hopping mad and churned up his humours. Now he can do some
Yoga, relax and write his own perfect play.I'll come see it but won't
"review" it. MORT
Subject: Review?
Methinks Steve Capra protestith too much. No doubt about it, the two
young men in the play were gay. Unfortunately or fortunately, no matter
what side of the toast you butter, a rose is a rose is a rose and that's
the way Loeb and Leopold were. They, as Meyer Levin once pointed out,
had a compulsion and acted it out. The compulsion was MURDRER. Their
gayness with each other and not neccesserily with others lead to murder.
The crime is killing not poking!Killing for fun and to get your rocks
off is evil no matter which side of the plate you take your licks.
Boring, maybe. Kinda cut and dried and inevitable the way it went down
once they decided to objectify their intellectual abstractions in real
life as well as on stage, yes. Maybe it really isn't as fully realized
a script as the awards it received would indicate. Maybe some actors
miss the mark and maybe they don't. Depends where you're looking
from.But one thing I'll vouch for is that Spiro Veloudos is a director
who always makes a script on stage better than it is on paper and...his
shows are never boring!
MORT REFERS TO THIS REVIEW.
Subject: Staged readings?
Hi Larry,
I am finding it impossible to find local stuff but I can find out stuff thats happening in Duluth!
I want to see a staged reading but dont want to wait 3 months to see it. I just missed the series at the Perishable theater in Providence but if this
is such a theater area then isnt there some place that does them weekly?
PLAYWRIGHTS'PLATFORM DOES READINGS THREE OF FOUR SUNDAYS EVERY MONTH.
Subject: "Equus" Review
Larry . . .
Subject: Hello
Hi, Larry.
I SUGGESTED B.O.C.A. FOR STARTS. ANYBODY ELSE GOT SOME ADVICE? I asked "Our Man in New Hampshire" John Geoffrion about The Players' Ring
in Portsmouth, and got this information back:
Subject: Re: Review: "Lovers"
In a message dated 3/31/99 1:19:49 AM Eastern Standard Time,
larry@theatermirror.com writes:
<< Is Players' Ring just a "space for rent" or do they have a regular group using the space and let others in while they're rehearsing?
The Players' Ring "proper" has its own season as well. Along with annual
productions of "A Christmas Carol", "Love Letters", one of two Halloween
scripts ("Isles in the Moon", about the infamous murder on the Isles of
Shoals, and "Serving His Master", adapted from a work by Poe), and a "second-
tier" Shakespeare (last year was "Merry Wives of Windsor", this year is
"Tempest", next season is probably "Much Ado About Nothing"), the Ring also
puts up 3 or 4 original works by local authors. There are about a half-dozen
groups that use the Ring to mount their own shows (Gary takes 30% of the box
office as a fee); established groups like Generic Theater, Theatre on the
Rocks, and Carpe Diem, along with newer companies like Rolling Die, First Age,
and Independent's Day.
Subject: Thank you!
Dear Larry:
Subject: The "EQUUS" Announcement
Hi Larry . . .
I'LL MISS SEEING YOU BOTH. MAYBE NEXT YEAR??????? Subject: (no subject)
Hello there!
"SOME" EXPERIENCE INDEED! CAN ANYONE ELSE HELP ANNA THIS SUMMER? Subject: Subscription Ideas
Hi,
Any ideas for which theatres we should consider? I assume that nothing
really happens until this coming fall, although if there happens to be
such a thing as a spring/early summer series we'd be quite interested in
considering it. Any thoughts?
I'VE SENT MY SUGGESTIONS. WHAT WOULD YOU ADVISE? Subject: Obston audition info
Hi Larry!
YOU WILL NEED N.E.E.D., STAGESOURCE, THE GLOBE CALENDAR, PROBABLY THE PHOENIX,
AND A DAY-JOB.
Subject: Thank you
Hi Larry,
Your support to the entire theater community is wonderful. Many people rely on theatermirror.com as a resource for valuable information.
Thanks for keeping the community alive and well!
YOU MUST REMEMBER THE FIRST PARAGRAPH OF PETER BROOK'S "THE EMPTY SPACE": Subject: Thank you
Larry and Beverly,
RUSS, ALL LARRY STARK DOES IS TELL THE TRUTH ABOUT WHAT HE SEES.
Subject: Boston Rep piece
I stumbled across your website and was drawn into reading David Zucker's
journal on the Boston Repertory Theatre. Thanks for publishing it -- and
thanks to David for sharing it. It was really interesting and, of course,
only increased my admiration for David and his work!
DAVID HAS BEEN A LITTLE TOO BUSY TO CONTINUE THE NARRATIVE OF LATE. Subject: A HORSE, A HORSE, MY KINGDOM HAS A HORSE!!!!
Larry,
DAMN. THAT MEANS YOUR PRETTY CASTING-CALL HAS TO COME OUT, DOESN'T IT? Subject: inquirey
Alan R. White
THE RESUME IS IMPRESSIVE, BUT I WOULD HAVE TO PAY you WHAT LARRY STARK IS
PAID EVERY WEEK: $0.00 i.e. EXACTLY NOTHING.
Subject: Opinion about Theater Mirror Dear Larry:
I want to be more active in the Theater field. I would like to know how I can get more professionally involved in the Theater like having an agent, etc.
AGENTS ARE EXPENSIVE, PENELOPE! Subject: The Love of the Nightengale
Hi Larry: I found your email address on a web page and wonder if you might
have info re 'The Love of the Nightengale' by Timberlake Wertenbaker or
Sophocles's lost play, 'Tereus', the myth upon which it is based. I would
like to direct this play at my college but can find little available except
for Wertenbaker's script. Your help would be greatly appreciated. I look
forward to your reply.
LARRY STARK REVIEWED THE BRIDGE THEATRE PRODUCTION LAST JUNE Subject: Request to remove listing
Dear Stark, Subject: "Felicity" updates
Dear Larry,
Hope all is well. The website is looking fine. It's quite remarkable to see how much more contact theatrical people have through the web.
This is the website for the International Women Playwrights Centre. Do take a look at all the amazing work that's being done. (Starting with
mine, of course.)
AND THE THEATER MIRROR HEARD ABOUT "Felicity" FIRST!
Subject: "IRNES"
Larry, I was not aware that you reviewed community theater plays for the
nominations. I have seen many of your reviews and some from the
community theaters but had thought the Outer Critics Circle was more
'off Boston!' I became aware of your web site last year when I directed
for the Delvena Theater Company - "On the Verge' - and met you at the
BCA. I thought I would drop you a line to say - keep up the good work!
Your support means a lot to many folks struggling to produce good
theater in the area. Also would like you to encourage you to expand your
reviews to other community theaters. I do not know if you are familiar
with the Quannapowitt Players of Reading. They have been doing very
challenging, quality theater for the last 62 years. This season we
produced The Secret Affairs of Mildred Wild, Eastern Standard, currently
running Arthur Miller's The American Clock and will end with You Can't
Take it with You. I do not know what your criteria may be to do a review
but we do have two more performances of Clock (Friday 26th & Saturday
27th) which is rarely done but is an exceptional play and You Can't
opens in April. If you are interested please call me 781/245-0871 or
visit our website www.qptheater.com Thanx. donna
DONNA, I DON'T HAVE A CAR or A DRIVER'S LICENSE! Subject:
thank you so much for the support you have given to "Marvin's Room" and to
me personally on your site. i'm glad there is a (cyber)place where all the
hard work that theater people do in boston is appreciated. i am impressed by
your love of and dedication to theater, and especially by the sheer volume
in which you attend it! so, keep up the good work.
THERE ARE SOME PRODUCTIONS, J.C., IN WHICH everyone IS OUTSTANDING. Subject: Thank You!
Dear Larry,
Or so I thought. But, then you came to see the show and your review was so
flattering I was too embarrassed at the time to write to you and thank you for
your kind words. Now I come to find out that you have chosen me (along with
two other fine local actresses) for being your personal pick for the "best"
actress of 1998.
All I can say is, "THANK YOU!" I had wanted to play the role of Bananas since
the early 1980s. That I was given an opportunity under such ideal
circumstances was enough for me. Then I receive from you this public
acknowledgment for doing something I love doing. It is the icing on an
already very tasty cake.
On behalf of myself and the membership of the Footlight Club, thank you for
your support of community theater and for your reviews (whether you have liked
the show or not!), because they help us to strive harder to be what we are --
one of Boston's BEST community theaters.
Thanks so much,
ALL LARRY STARK DOES IS CALLS 'EM AS HE SEES 'EM! Subject: some thoughts...
Also, I am curious to know the pool of shows that you are drawing from for
these nominations. There are many local theater companies that did excellent
work over this past year that may have been overlooked. Arlington Friends
and the Footlight Club seem to be the only community theaters you mention.
More importantly, those are just MY nominations, and there were a lot of
reviewers included in the mix. The complete ballot of nominees may give
you a different perspective on the pool drawn from.
The IRNE Awards started with a wrong name-choice. We were trying, like the
OBIE's in New York to move the spotlight away from the Big Barns downtown to the
excellent work done by people who can't afford a full-time P/R person --- to
sing the UNsung for a change. And I see a lot of damn good stuff in community
theatres every year.
Thanks for giving me the opportunity to talk about this. Subject: Wharf Rat Festival
Dear Larry Stark,
Your comments regarding the first act of "Mother, Tree, Cat" were
tremendously affirming- I'm just hoping that you'll feel the same way about
Act II! I'm planning to see the August production, and will probably be in
Boston for a few days afterwards. As you know, I lived there for many years
before moving to Oregon, and am looking forward to some time with old
friends. I'd love to say hello while I'm in town-
Subject: M. Butterfly
Dear Larry Stark,
The first is to join the chorus of thanks to you and to all others who
support the operation of The Theater Mirror. Although I heard of
Arlington's audition announcement for M. Butterfly through various
sources, my choice to join the production was a result of researching
the theater with the help of your site.
The second reason for my writing is to ask you if you have either
written a review or know of any other reviews of our production. Until
the recent attention you gave the production with respect to IRNE, I
haven't read any critical response/mention of the production at all. As
we are preparing the show for EMACT, I would appreciate as many
perspectives as possible as to the strengths and weaknesses of the show.
Subject: 1999: The Nominations, Please
Hi Larry!
OOOPS! SOME DAYS, I DON'T KNOW WHAT YEAR IT IS! Subject: Hello
Hello Larry, Haven't touched bases for a while. Not much going on on my side. I'm enjoying the installations on the Boston Repertory History
by David. I caught a performance of his up here in Newburyport a while back and did a bit of reminiscing.
Which brings me to a question. Do you have any idea of the whereabouts of Larry Murray, former Pocket Mime PR mouthpiece and Director of
ARTS Boston? Last I heard he was running a retail shop somewhere called Blue Earth or something like that. Sure would like to track him down.
Hope all is well with you and congratulations on The Theater Mirror; it seems to get just a little bit more Show Biz each time I visit.
J Tormey Subject: Web-site
Date: Wed, 17 Feb 1999 19:19:32 EST
Hi Larry-
YOU SHOULD START WITH THE American Theater Web LIST AND SURF!
Start with web-pages for theatres in your area, and check all their
Links-lists for general-information sites. Subject: Re: Web-site
Larry-
WELL, ... UM, ... IF YOU'RE EVER IN NEW ENGLAND, LET'S DO LUNCH!
Subject: new address for Comedy Theater Productions Date: Wed, 17 Feb 1999 20:50:08 -0500
Hi - David Goldstein here, producer of Comedy Theater Productions
Subject: Thank you!
I just wanted to thank you for the information you provided me on where to
look for info on the Titanic extras. You have a truly great site, I enjoy
every minute I spend on it, and always learn something new. Thanks again for
providing a great service and resource to the 'theater geeks' of New England!
IF YOU GET CAST, KEEP A BACKSTAGE-JOURNAL FOR THE MIRROR! Subject: Greetings!
Hi There:
Could you provide (either e-mail or place on site) any/all information
regarding any musical productions, or musical comedy productions currently
auditioning, etc.?
FIRST OF ALL, YOU HAVE TO SUBSCRIBE TO StageSource AND DIAL THEIR AUDITION
HOTLINE EVERY DAY:
Second, you need to buy a subscription to the New England Entertainment Digest
Those and the Thursday GLOBE Calendar and perhaps the PHOENIX are the best
sources for audition information, and you will need all of them.
Then you will probably learn more and get into more rolladexes if you simply
attend Lots of auditions all over the map, whether you think you qualify or not.
And don't expect help from peers. It's a soprano-eat-soprano world out there,
there are more women chasing fewer female roles every year, and directors and
music-directors often have their own lists of reliable performers.
Subject: Re: Greetings!
Hi Lar:
I can't even find a piano player to work with in this area....If I call
Berklee, I get students with no experience and no transportation. The Boston
Phoenix has a real bad habit of running very moded ads for people who aren't
looking for anyone, but never take their ad off the classifieds listing...Some
I guarantee you are over 2 years old, and not even updated.
thanks for your suggestions though, and would ask if you do run across a piano
player looking to work with a female vocalist, in the Broadway, Cabaret type
mode, please refer them to me. My number is 978-86-1780 during the day. I
would greatly appreciate any assistance/advice you could lend.
Subject: Help
Do you have an e-mail address for the Winthrop Playmakers? I am
involved in a production of Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf? and we are
looking for a certain prop (the shotgun that fires an umbrella) that
we can't find anywhere. I saw that they did a production of it
recently and I was hoping they could help us out.
LARRY STARK FOUND IT ON THE EMACT WEBSITE Subject: Titanic Extras
Good evening Larry. I had a friend who told me yesterday they heard something
on the radio about a possibility of the need for local extras in the
production of Titanic coming to the Wang. She didn't know any details and
couldn't remember where she heard it. I was wondering if you or anyone else
in the greenroom had heard anything to this effect? Thanks very much.
LARRY STARK IS CHECKING... Subject: norbert zaborowski
hallo i am a street performer of de storry fakir live in spain an see
the name auf zaborowski de a not a lot of thater show emil adress
elfakir@ctv.es
?????????????????? Subject: web referrers
Hi Larry
WHAT A PERFECT LETTER TO COME THE DAY AFTER OUR NEW BANNER-ADS WENT UP! Subject: Kathy St.George
Mr Stark :
ALL I CAN DO IS HOPE SOMEONE READING THE GREENROOM CAN HELP. Subject: Thank You!
Dear Mr. Stark,
"Luckily these self-conscious abstractions and objectifications become
intermittent and perfunctory as the play unfolds, and something like
real dialog between people peeks through the stylizations. But when Hamlet
asks the newly-arrived player to "Say on: come to Hecuba" the actress
(she is an uncredited chorister, wearing Hollywood high-heeled booties and
silver chain-mail tights with matching bolero flack-jacket; all the
chorus are in modern motley) launches into the speech with such intense
concentration and melodiously impassioned sincerity that this supposed
spate of "play-acting" makes all that comes before or after seem like clever
games by comparison."
. . . because this is me! Thank you so much for your extremely kind
words. What an honor to be recognized by you for my brief moment in the
spotlight! Subject: Information about performance space for hire in Boston
I would love to get information about performance space in Boston. One night production to be held in 100-200 capacity
house January 2000. Any feedback would be helpful.
David Haig
SOUNDS LIKE THE BCA TO LARRY STARK. ANY OTHER IDEAS? Subject: Theatre Gift shop
Hello- I am a volunteer managing the gift shop for a regional theatre in
Rochester, NY. I am curious whether other theatres have gift shops, and
what merchandise they find profitable. Also, if you are aware of any
suppliers of theatre-related gifts, I'd be grateful for the suggestion.
Thanks for your time. Rose Platas
OTHER THAN BROADWAY, LARRY STARK HAS SEEN SOME TEE-SHIRTS... aNYONE ELSE?
Love, Subject: Horton archives
I'm notoriously bad at sending you mail, or letting people know when I'm
reading things {hangs head, shuffles feet in shame}, but I've been
enjoying the rereading of Geralyn's reviews very much.
HAH! LARRY STARK knew SOMEONE WAS READING THEM!
Subject: this 'n that
just taking a minute to thank you for the "Glorious Wharf
Rat" write up-- 3 of the 6 are friends of mine, and I should
have been there.
Also, thanks for the Horton archives. I don't bnow if
anybody else reads them -- certainly nobody has emailed me--
but I'm reading them, and my prose seems less pompous and
more informative to me by the day. I even think I'll take
my gush over Richard Mawe in to him tomorrow-- he's playibg
joe keller in "Sons", and it's a joy to watch him at work.
What a wonderful painful wordy posturing play!!--
G.L.Horton http://www.tiac.net/users/ghorton
EXCERPTS FROM HER LETTER WHILE STAGE-MANAGING 'All My Sons" AT THE LYRIC THEATER WEST.
From: MERRITT101@AOL.COM@INET02# Internet Gateway
Dear Friends,
I just wanted to share my good news.
Very recently I accepted an offer to serve as the new Associate Artistic
Director at Tennessee Repertory Theatre, a four illion dollar LORT C company
located in Nashville, TN. It is a big step on many levels. did not look to
move from Boston; this job fell from the sky over New Years. An old professor
of mine, David Grapes, got the job as Artistic Directorand asked me to join
him as we try and turn this sluggish, underachieving theatre around I will
also serve as Director of Education, direct 2 of the 5 plays (tentatively
Wilde's AN IDEAL HUSBAND and MIRACLE WORKER) help plan the 6-show season, aidin marketing, and plan long-range goals (a studio season, touring,
apprenticeship and iternship programs, developing a summer season, possibily
even a conservatory under the TRT roof). The operation is 15 years old and was
founded by arts philantropist Martha R. Ingram (Ingram Micro). The Rep
performs in a state-of-the-art 1100 seatfully equipped proscenium house (fly
lines, orchestra pit) located downtown in the Tennessee Performing Arts
Center. That facility houses three theatres and isalso home to a professional
symphony, ballet, and opera company as well as the Rep. I wil move down April
1 with Charlotte and Jonas to follow June 1.
Those of you who are interested in keeping in touch with an eye toward working
together, send me two resumes. I hope this generic update finds you well!
GOOD NEWS FOR TENNESSEE, Great NEWS FOR TODD!
Subject: WGBH DOCUMENTARY Dear Friends . . .
THAT'S ALMOST WORTH BUYING A T-V FOR!
Subject: hello
Just wanted to wish you Happy New Year and the blessings of the season, which lasts all
year as far as I'm concerned.
THE SAGA OF SHARYN SHIPLEY'S PLAY IS IN Reflections.
Break a leg with it! Subject: Re: Notebook entry
You are a beautiful and gracious man.
Thanks for the wonderful words. Subject: THANK YOU
dear larry,
Subject: Looking For
Hi there!
I've been trying to track down the publishing company that owns the rights
to the show, but cannot seem to find that info anywhere. A search on the net
doesn't seem to reveal much, can you tell me who the publisher was? Please?
Or direct me to a source that might allow me to search for the publishing
company?
Subject: Origin?
LARRY STARK HAS HEARD THAT: Subject: A Coarse Evening
Dear Larry,
I appreciate your comments about our show. Especially the ones about my fight
choreography. It was difficult and a bit ironic to create my own ass-beatings.
I noticed you on opening night and, not knowing who you were, figured you were
a critic. Of course you sat where the choreographic tricks were revealed,
which I did my best to put out of my head. Thanks again. I'll see you from the
stage next in Twelfth Night with New Rep in March.
Sincerely, Subject: Miser Review Subject: brandnames...
Dear Larry:
Subject: Mailing List
Dear Larry,
Happy new year. I was wondering if Theater Mirror had a mailing list
(preferably snail-mail) which I could borrow/buy from you? I'd like to
send out some materials concerning our upcoming production of "Side
Show" to those who would be MOST interested, viz., your readers.
Please let me know,
Sincerely,
Tristram Perry Subject: Permission to reprint article
Mr. Stark,
Date: Tue, 22 Jun 1999 17:46:28 -0400 (EDT)
From: Valerie Weiss valerie@pride.med.harvard.edu
To:
listto announce plays
directed by Jason M. Reulet
directed by Valerie H. Weiss
June 19th Actors Benefit
And the first thing I have to say is BRAVO!
This is just another specimen of that detestible internet garbage called SPAM, right?
Sure. It's also great advertising! It took a while, probably, to compile that huge list
of e-mail addreses, and the simple and tasteful arrangement of the lines on the page took
a few moments longer. Sending it took seconds. And look how many eyeballs it reached!
The reason I'm pointing it out this way, though, is that it's the Very First Time in
almost five years of running The Mirror that I've seen anyone actually use e-mail for
advertising in this way.
And now that you've seen it, think about this: all those e-mail addresses are Right There
for ANYONE to use.
Do you have a show that not enough people have heard about?
Well??????????
Love,
===Anon.
Date: Fri, 18 Jun 1999 11:57:34 -0400 (EDT)
From: Jason Reulet jmreulet@fas.harvard.edu
I am sorry it has taken me so long to write this email, but I just wanted
to thank you for the eloquent review you gave our company. (we have been
quoting liberally from it at every opportunity!)
Jason M. Reulet
Love,
===Anon.
Date: Wed, 16 Jun 1999 12:56:53 EDT
From: McBinky@aol.com
It's a big list, but I have no idea WHERE all these communities are!
Compare the lst to a road-map of the state, and.....there you are.
Date: Wed, 16 Jun 1999 07:32:36 -0400
From: "Willis, Nancy" nancy.willis@lmco.com
Best,
Nancy
Date: Mon, 14 Jun 1999 23:32:03 -0400
From: "hollybarry2" hollybarry2@email.msn.com
Good -day to you. I am interested in finding a small theatre to put on a
production and I am having trouble . Would you be able to point me in the
right direction?
Thank-You for your time.
Yours,Holly Day
HAVE YOU ALREADY TRIED (1) THE BCA (2) THE ACTORS' WORKSHOP (3) THE BEAU JEST
MOVING THEATER OR (4) PORTAL THEATRE WHICH NOW HAS THE OLD "BOSTON BAKED" SPACE IN
DAVIS SQUARE SOMERVILLE?
THESE ARE SMALL (60 - 100 SEATS PLUS OR MINUS) SPACES. IF YOU NEED MORE IT MAY GET
HARDER.
DATES, TOO, ARE IMPORTANT. SUMMER MIGHT BE EASIER TO FIND SPACE, HARDER TO PUT
ASSES ON ITS SEATS.
I NEVER SAID THIS WAS AN easy GAME, DID I?
Love,
===Anon.
Date: Mon, 14 Jun 1999 12:31:54 -0700
From: bmanspeizer@bkb.com
Thank you so much for your review of the Skriker. Your comments were
encouraging, insightful, and quite enjoyable! I so appreciate that
you took the time to come and see the performance as well as to write
such an informative review on the Boston theater community. The
actors, crew, and myself were so pleased with your feedback.
Love,
Beth Manspeizer
Love,
===Anon.
Date: Mon, 14 Jun 1999 11:42:35 -0400 (EDT)
From: PMDF Mail Server postmaster@csps.com
morelp@csps.com not found in directoryte:
Date: Mon, 14 Jun 1999 07:43:09 PDT
From: Donald Baillargeon dbaillar@hotmail.com
Well, my message to this woman has been returned. Could you please pass it
along for me? Thanks!
Date: Mon, 14 Jun 1999 07:15:20 -0700 (PDT)
From: Donald Baillargeon dbaillar@hotmail.com
Larry Stark passed along your message to me as I work at the SAG office here
in Boston. I believe that the card you received in Puerto Rico should be
valid here, as Puerto Rico is considered a US Territory. Here's the Equity
phone # in NY that you can call to confirm this. There is no office here in
Boston - 212-869-8530.
Don Baillargeon
I have my equity card from Puerto Rico. Do you think I can get an equity
card in Boston with the one I have from Puerto Rico?
I wrote you two months ago, and I performed last month in the play "The
Cemetery Club".
Hope to hear from you soon.
Penelope Morel
e-mail morelp@csps.com
Date: Fri, 11 Jun 1999 17:10:15 EDT
From: EMACTJAC@aol.com
Just a quick reminder that tomorrow is the EMACT Festival Talk Back at the
Burlington Players' Park Playhouse (in Burlington). Everything starts at
10:00am, so please feel free to wander in around then to help us discuss this
year's event. All input will be integral in the planning of Festival' 2000!
Date: Mon, 7 Jun 1999 16:44:15 EDT
From: JACNEED@aol.com
Thanks in advance!
JulieAnn
Best wishes,
Paul Harris
Date: Mon, 07 Jun 1999 12:30:19 -0400
From: julie@memcad.com
It's a shame that these people spent so much time and effort, not to mention the years of experience that went into this show, to
have it only be seen on one weekend!!!!
If anyone has any ideas, please get back to me....
Here's a brief description that I sent to colleagues at work the other day....
Last night I saw a dance/theatre/comedy piece that I thought was very
good, and worth seeing if you can get to the C Walsh Theatre at Suffolk Univerisity .
It's only happening June 4 and 5 so hurry!...
617 625-5788
It's called Deus Ex Machina ( A Theadancecomedrama)
I am not a big modern dance fan, but this piece was an exception.
If you've ever heard of Mummenschanz, there's a little of that in it...also a bit of modern day Alice in Wonderland. They also intertwine a short video done by a
comedian who plays a nun, the devil, and other characters. This guy co-starred in Next Stop Wonderland.The music is great, the performances are great...some funny and creative
stuff as well... only an hour of your time, but well worth the time and money spent...
go here for more
http://www.snappydance.com/descript.htm
http://www.snappydance.com
Thanks in advance !
Julie B.
Date: Sat, 5 Jun 1999 14:17:06 EDT
From: ACMEACTOR@aol.com
Dave Sheppard here, it was great to finally meet and talk with you at
festival. Thanks for the kind words in your write-up on festival. One
correction though, you mentioned one of your complaints was that "Jack Sweet
was the only name unfairly absent from recognition" well just to set the
record straight Jack was nominated Best Actor ( a nomination he rightfully
deserved) with Rik Pierce, Jim Grana, Harold Bond and myself.
Thank you for your continued coverage of community theater.
And to everyone who participated at the festival this year thank you and the
words of the adjudicators are just their opinion
Larry - it was a true pleasure.
Dave Sheppard
Acme Theater Productions
Date: Sun, 6 Jun 1999 09:02:11 EDT
From: LLT21@aol.com
I just noticed that if people want more information for the Oliver!
auditions, there isn't a contact number. Anyone interested can call (401)
766-1898 for information or directions to the theater.
Have a good day!
Louise
Date: Thu, 3 Jun 1999 18:04:36 EDT
From: EMACTJAC@aol.com
I hope you don't consider this an abuse of my using the EMACT list for
personal business, but I need a little help. Let me explain -
Take care all! I appreciate any efforts you make in my quest.
JulieAnn
Date: Tue, 1 Jun 1999 10:28:47 EDT
From: Terimuller@aol.com
Thanks alot...Teri Muller
CONGRATULATIONS TO EVERYONE INVOLVED.
Love,
===Anon.
Subject: Jake's Women
Date: Sun, 23 May 1999 11:54:37 -0400
From: Nancy Curran Willis imadirektor@mediaone.net
I couldn't stay out of this one! I directed a production of "Jake's
Women" for the Concord Players a few years ago and I have to agree with
Don Gillis this time. I think if that scene did not work for you it
must have been the director's approach to it rather than Simon's that
did not work.
Amen. Another country heard from!
Nancy Curran Willis
Date: Sat, 22 May 1999 17:58:52 -0700
From: Don Gillis dgillis2@home.com
I just read your review of Jakes Women, whcih I saw at
City Nights
Dinner Theater ( its on your reviews page)
I was perplexed as to why you did not like the scene where Maggie
appears when Sheila comes in for Jake's "date". I thought the scene was
one of the funniest in the show. Not well written? I guess reviewer's
vs reviewer's( you and me) don't agree on this one.
Explain to me, because I want to get another perspective of this scene.
~~~~~ Don
Date: Thu, 13 May 1999 15:22:31 -0400
From: Larry Stark's Theater Mirror larry@theatermirror.com
To: Don Gillis dgillis2@home.com
But in this scene he converses and argues with a Maggie he really Knows isn't
there, but he does so so violently poor Sheila herself believes he has
flipped.
For me that stretches the "all in my mind" basis for the play all out of
shape.
Ad played here (and remember I've seen the play only once) Jake comes on to
Sheila with jackrabbity hops from ridiculous idea to ridiculous idea --- not
at all behaving in any way like someone interested in, or even Aware of
Sheila herself. And it's not at all just because "his wife" is looking on;
apparently it's because he's an inept jerk --- which he isn't anywhere else
in ther script.
Structureally, you're right, the scene is howlingly funny --- but it's funny
because it's a shameless rip-off of "Blythe Spirit" not because of anything
Neil Simon did with Noel Coward's situation. And Coward freely admitted that
the spirits WERE real and talked and thought and acted with wills of their
own, so the confusions of those who could NOT see and hear them were
legitimate and the difference was the very basis of the joke. Simon on the
other hand did everyting in his power --- in the Rest of his play, at least
--- to keep those "ideas" real ONLY as projections of the writer's
imaginative method of work, and here he chucks the whole ballgame out the
window for some easy laughs.
You should have seen GINGERBREAD LADY, B.E.F.O.R.E he re-wrote it! Those
people were simply and spontaneously Witty People, it was how they talked
and how they thought, but wit and humor and laughs never for a moment
assuaged the fact that they were Miserable! And that was what made it such
a brilliant play. What survives in the ultimate movie turns my stomach.
I mean, Dorothy Parker was one of the funniest people who ever lived, and
tried suicide every six months, so there's precedence for it.
For me the play's climactic line is when he gestures at his processor and
shouts
"I don't write because I WANT to, I write to save my ghoddamned soul!"
And that's why Maggie Must accept his "distance" and why Jake Must
eventually trust that she will. The end here IS compromise, not
happy-ever-after;. Their affairs and their separation weren't accidents or
misunderstandings, they were evidence.
In this production, I never saw what Bound Maggie so desperately TO this
incredibly flawed and self-centric writer, but she is and she must be for
they to accept the ending.
Of course, the fact that I'm divorced because I more or less loved reviewing
plays more than I loved my own wife has NOTHING to do with my opinions of
this play, does it?
I do think I can see Doc Simon facing the truth about Why and How he writes
here, and I'll bet the play would play just as well, maybe even better, if
he'd just skipped the whole Sheila scene entirely --- whether, on its own
merits, it's funny or not.
But that's just my own warped perspective on it. I could be wrong.
I think I remember being wrong once before.......
(Insert wry emoticon of your choice here.)
Love,
===God
( a k a Anon. )
Date: Sun, 23 May 1999 10:10:49 -0700
From: Don Gillis dgillis2@home.com
To: "Larry Stark's Theater Mirror"
Good defense. There are a lot of people who go to theater and do not
have the expertise to "compare" - for example Noel Coward's style of
writing with Neil Simon. I know I have seen Blithe Spirit and when I
saw Jake's Women and he refers to Coward in that scene,,, it never
ocurred to me that it was "a rip-off". I agree with the rest of your
interpretation of the play though and just was curious as to why you
particularly did not like this scene. If he goes out of character - I
don't believe its Doc Simon's fault. The DIRECTOR has the
responsibility to keep the character in line. He did not (in my
opinion) act like a jerk in the production I saw. If Jake acted like
a inept jerk in this scene then I would be inclined to blame the
DIRECTOR, not the character. But, I also have been known to be wrong
before...... thanks for the answer.
Date: Wed, 19 May 1999 10:37:33 -0400
From: Jessica Martin jessicam@bu.edu
(617) 536-4651 or
email: jessicam@bu.edu.
Thanks,
Jessica
Date: 18 May 99 11:20:59 EDT
From: Irene Daly dalyi@usa.net
I don't believe that you've got this on your website page and, although I've
yet to visit this theatre - amazing what getting your car totalled will do to
your mobility - I've heard they do wonderful shows!
http://www.americanstagefestival.org/
Also, while I'm at it, I wanted to thank you for your continuing enthusiasm
and support. I've had the pleasure of being reviewed by you (and Beverly
Creasey) a few times and was among the Sugan contingent at the IRNE awards.
It was a terrific night with a lot of heart.
Thanks again,
Irene Daly
I THINK THAT'S WHAT THE IRNE AWARDS ARE TRYING TO DO.
Love,
===Anon.
Date: Mon, 17 May 99 10:38:10 -0500
From: robert_saoud_at_ccandnov2@putnaminv.com
Just wanted to thank you for your wonderful commentary on the "Wizard
of Is". It was a fun evening for me and as you noted, everyone else
seemed to be enjoying themselves as well. I appreciate your support
and encouragement. I'll keep you posted as to what's up next.
Thanks again,
Robert
OBVIOUSLY, I HAD A BALL....
Love,
===Anon.
Date: Sat, 15 May 1999 16:04:21 -0700
From: Don Gillis dgillis2@home.com
~~~~ Don
The time that passes between a dropped cue and the next line
Prop
A hand-carried object small enough to be lost by an actor 30 seconds before it is needed on stage
Director
The individual who suffers from the delusion that he or she is responsible for every moment of brilliance cited by the critic in the local review
Blocking
The art of moving actors on the stage in such a manner as not to collide with the walls, the furniture, the orchestra pit or each other. Similar to playing chess, except that the pawns want to argue with you.
Blocking Rehearsal
A rehearsal taking place early in the production schedule where actors frantically write down movements which will be nowhere in evidence by opening night
Quality Theater
Any show with which you were directly involved
Turkey
Every show with which you were not directly involved
Dress rehearsal
Rehearsal that becomes a whole new ball game as actors attempt to maneuver among the 49 objects that the set designer added at 7:30 that evening
Tech week
The last week of rehearsal when everything that was supposed to be done weeks before finally comes together at the last minute; reaches its grand climax on dress rehearsal night when costumes rip, a dimmer pack catches fire and the director has a nervous breakdown. Also known as hell week.
Set
An obstacle course which, throughout the rehearsal period, defies the laws of physics by growing smaller week by week while continuing to occupy the same amount of space
Monologue
That shining moment when all eyes are focused on a single actor whois desperately aware that if he forgets a line, no one can save him
Dark Night
The night before opening when no rehearsal is scheduled so the actors and crew can go home and get some well-deserved rest, and instead spend the night staring sleeplessly at the ceiling because they're sure they needed one more rehearsal
Bit Part
An opportunity for the actor with the smallest role to count everybody else's lines and mention repeatedly that he or she has the smallest part in the show.
Green Room
Room shared by nervous actors waiting to go on stage and the precocious children whose actor parents couldn't get a baby-sitter that night, a situation which can result in justifiable homicide
Dark Spot
An area of the stage which the lighting designer has inexplicably forgotten to light, and which has a magnetic attraction for the first-time actor. A dark spot is never evident before opening night.
Hands
Appendages at the end of the arms used for manipulating one's environment, except on a stage, where they grow six times their normal size and either dangle uselessly, fidget nervously, or try to hide in your pockets.
Stage Manager
Individual responsible for overseeing the crew, supervising the set changes, baby-sitting the actors and putting the director in a hammerlock to keep him
from killing the actor who just decided to turn his walk-on part into a major role by doing magic tricks while he serves the tea.
Lighting Director
Individual who, from the only vantage point offering a full view of the stage, gives the stage manager a heart attack by announcing a play-by-play of everything that's going wrong.
Makeup Kit
(1) among experienced community theater actors, a battered tackle box loaded with at least 10 shades of greasepaint in various stages of desiccation, tubes of lipstick and blush, assorted pencils, bobby pins, braids of crepe hair, liquid latex, old programs, jewelry, break-a-leg greeting cards from past shows, brushes and a handful of half-melted cough drops;
(2) for first-time male actors, a helpless look and anything they can borrow
The Forebrain
The part of an actors brain which contains lines, blocking and characterization; activated by hot lights
The Hindbrain
The part of an actors brain that keeps up a running subtext in the background while the forebrain is trying to act; the hindbrain supplies a constant stream of unwanted nformation, such as who is sitting in the second row tonight, a notation to seriously maim the crew member who thought it would be funny to put real Tabasco sauce in the fake Bloody Marys, or the fact that you need to do laundry on Sunday.
Stage Crew
Group of individuals who spend their evenings coping with 50-minute stretches of total boredom interspersed with 30-second bursts of mindless panic
Message Play
Any play which its director describes as "worthwhile," "a challenge to actors and audience alike," or "designed to make the audience think." Critics will be impressed both by the daring material and the roomy accommodations, since they're likely to have the house all to themselves.
Bedroom Farce
Any play which requires various states of undress on stage and whose set sports a lot of doors. The lukewarm reviews, all of which feature the phrase "typical community theater fare" in the opening paragraph, are followed paradoxically by a frantic attempt to schedule more performances to accommodate the overflow crowds.
Assistant Director
Individual willing to undertake special projects that nobody else would take on a bet, such as working one-on-one with the brain-dead actor whom the rest of the cast has threatened to take out a contract on.
Set Piece
Any large piece of furniture which actors will resolutely use as a safety shield between themselves and the audience, in an apparent attempt to both anchor themselves to the floor, thereby avoiding floating off into space, and to keep the audience from seeing that they actually have legs
Strike
The time immediately following the last performance while all cast and crew members are required to stay and dismantle, or watch the two people who own Makita screw drivers dismantle, the set.
Gloria Dennison, Stage Coach Players, Dekalb, Illinois
Actors (As defined by a set designer)
People who stand between the audience and the set designer's art, blocking the view.
(That's also the origin of the word "blocking," by the way.)
Greg Quillinan, Florham Park Players, Morris Plains, NJ
Stage Right, Stage Left
Two simple directions actors pretend not to understand in order to drive directors crazy. ("No, no, your OTHER stage right!")
Teri Robert, Actor's Guild of Parkersburg, WV
"Just remember: It's only community Theatre until it offends
someone ... then it's ART!"
Date: Fri, 07 May 1999 13:33:24 -0400
From: Andrew Andreev aaandre@mindspring.com
My name is Nelly. In November I created Mime group in Cambridge -
Classical and modern Pantomime, Movement improvisations, Dance...
I hope you have interest in Art of Silence. We called our group Blue
Moon Theatre. The first Performance "Reflections" you could see on This
Saturday at the Dance Complex.
We perform 12 of the best Classical Mime etudes done in XX century. This
is unique chance to see them, because most of them are not taped or if
they are - it's not easy to discover, especially in the USA.
If you decide to spend 1 hour with the tops in Mime history - you are
welcome
7:00 or 8:30 PM (your choice)
536 Mass Ave, Central Sq., Cambridge , MA
Dance Complex, Studio 1
Best whishes!
Nelly
Date: Thu, 6 May 1999 14:04:56 -0500
From: "Seebach, Tanya" tseebach@bhs.umn.edu
Thanks, Larry.
Talk to you later
Tanya
Date: Wed, 05 May 1999 01:13:20 -0700
From: Rosann Hickey rosann@sover.net
Sometimes we make up our entire lives!
Love, Rosann
Date: 05 May 99 11:29:16 -0400
From: Peter Brennan pbrennan@tpigroup.com
(INSERT WRY EMOTICON OF YOUR CHOICE HERE!)
Love,
===Anon.
( a k a larry stark )
Subject: QUestion
Date: Tue, 4 May 1999 14:27:23 +0100
From: "Park, Rick" RPARK@NEHGS.ORG
This is RIck Park writing and I just read the Theatre Mirror Review of the
show I am in "Swimming in the SHallows". I was a bit taken aback, because
when I saw you in the audience the other night, you seemed to be enjoying it
quite a bit. But the review was a very negative one. Then I noticed that at
the end of the review, it was signed "Love, Anon.". DOes this mean that
someone besides yourself reviewed it? I understand completely if you didn't
like the show and wrote such but I really thought you seemed to be enjoying
yourself. That was why I was wondering why it was signed "Anon." -- is it an
anonymous critic or just something you sign at the end of all the reviews? I
am just curious about it because the review and your reaction in the
audience on Saturday night are from different ends of the spectrum.
ake care!
Rick Park
RPARK@NEHGS.ORG
Love,
===Anon.
( a k a larry stark )
Subject: theater tickets
Date: Tue, 04 May 1999 14:27:32 EDT
From: "jennifer lawrence" phribbitt@hotmail.com
Thanks
Jennifer Lawrence
Subject: Boston Latin Theatre (Centre Stage Productions)
Date: Sun, 2 May 1999 14:04:31 EDT
From: SaltOcean@aol.com
for our show.
We know that many people go to your site and respect your advertising.
If you cant publish this on your site send me an email telling me so and if
you can publish it, send me an email as well
Jonathon Gass, Centre Stage Productions
Break a leg all.....
Love,
===Anon.
Date: Sat, 1 May 1999 12:32:51 EDT
From: PDOshaughn@aol.com
Hello Larry,
We are cleaning out the basement of Eliot Hall next Saturday, May 8th. We
have about 75 theater seats which came from the old Metropolitan (Wang
Center) theater when it was renovated. We would be happy to donate these as
is to any theater group which could bring a truck to Eliot Hall that weekend.
Can you put the word out? Many thanks. Any questions can be directed to me
at this email address or at my home phone number 617-969-4055. Many thanks.
Paul O'Shaughnessy
Date: Tue, 27 Apr 1999 00:10:13 -0700
From: Rosann Hickey rosann@sover.net
I caught the final third of this on Vermont public radio--which
broadcasts Fresh Air at 3 PM (not a great time for me)--and found it
very interesting to hear the writer talk. I loved the story about Dame
Judy
finally having to struggle with lines like other mortals! Actually I've
been a Dench fan for about 15 years, so I'm tickled that other 'Mercans
are discovering her...
I liked the bit about Brits being excited by sex and Americans being
excited by fame. How interesting that he felt that Nicole Kidman, who
has already made her name as a movie actress, finally learned how to act
on stage!
I did wonder if he had sent every single one of the people he "spoke
for" in Via Dolorosa their sides--it sounded as if he might have missed
one or two and I had to wonder who/why?
On the whole I found myself wishing that Terry had done the
interview--I think she might have been able to go a little deeper/ get a
bit more out of him. Of course, that's just on the basis of what I
caught.
Meanwhile, I made it to Montreal and got my museum and subway fix
for a while. I'm not sure why I feel like such a country mouse in
Boston. Sounds like the theatre is flowing fast and furious there.
Love, Rosann
Love,
===Anon.
Date: Mon, 26 Apr 1999 19:25:37 -0400
From: Marjorie Randell-Silver copperleaf@worldnet.att.net
It was good to chat with you at the IRNE Awards Event. We have some good
news to report. Jonathan has just been cast in a feature film, "Keeping
the Faith. It is Edward Norton's directorial debut and is set to film in
June (Jonathan joins the production in July). I believe the film is
being shot entirely in New York. The movie stars Edward Norton, Ben
Stiller and Jenna Elfman. It was written by Stuart Blumberg and is a
romantic comedy. Jonathan has been cast in a principal role and needless
to say, he is pretty darn excited. In fact, we all are excited for him.
It is thrilling enough to be cast in a major film, but even more so to
be directed by Edward Norton. We have a great deal of respect for him.
At such a young age he has demonstrated tremendous range and talent. We
will keep you posted on things as they develop. Hope all is well with
you.
Best regards,
Marjorie Randell-Silver (Jonathan's Mom)
Obviously he's going to have a Wonderful Summer! I hope he can stay Himself
in front of the camera. And I'm glad that some years down the line I'll be
able to say "Jonathan Silver? I saw him in "Marvin's Room" and TWO productions
of "Mockingbird" and, y'know, he was just as good then as he is now!"
Break a leg!
Love,
===Anon.
Date: Mon, 26 Apr 1999 07:30:30 PDT
From: "Patrick Wang" patrickbox@hotmail.com
In response to BJ Williams' questions, below is some information about
the Tremont Theater and the production of The Silk Road that goes up
in less than two weeks.
While a goal of Asia on Stage is to provide performance
opportunities for Asian actors and for Asian plays, they have
produced Asian plays with completely non-asian casts as well as plays
by non-asian playwrights. My experience with the Tremont Theater is
from both sides. I have a small role in their current production of
The Silk Road, part of the Asia on Stage series. As co-artistic
director of Pet Brick Productions, I am planning to produce a play in
the space this September, independent of the Chinese Culture Institute
and Asia on Stage.
Sincerely,
Patrick Wang
Date: Sun, 25 Apr 1999 09:30:21 -0700
From: "sharyn" sharyn@wolfenet.com
Here's a thought for the day"
My new play "Mother's Day in the Holding Tank" will have its world premiere at The Iowa Correctional Institute for Women in Mitchellville, Ia.
(near Des Moines)in August. Directed by Marti Sivi, it has just started rehearsals. It has been double cast. (all the actors are inmates who also
chose the play). It has been double cast because sometimes inmates get in trouble and end up in solitary...
Interesting, huh?
Hope all's well,
Sharyn Shipley
Date: Sat, 24 Apr 1999 14:18:28 -0400
From: rlamanna@riag.com
My wife and I are planning a trip to Boston from May 9th thru May 16th.
Can you tell me if Phantom of the Opera is playing in Boston?
My email address is rlamanna@riag.com
Thank You!
Richard LaManna
Date: Fri, 23 Apr 1999 14:45:34 EDT
From: "Kenneth LeTendre" kletend@hotmail.com
April 23, 1999
Dear Larry,
Thanks for getting an ad for the "Jewel Flockmeyer-Romano's Comedy
Bat Mitzva" on your website. Unfortunately, the show was cancelled
due to insufficient reserverations. This was no doubt caused by the
lack of advertisement. Without publicity, you've got no show, a fact
that somehow was not realized by my producer. Again, thanks!
Sincerely,
Ken LeTendre
Date: Sat, 24 Apr 1999 12:50:58 EDT
From: "Kenneth LeTendre" kletend@hotmail.com
>To: Kenneth LeTendre kletend@hotmail.com
>I'm really sorry Ken.
>A director shouldn't Have To do Everything!
Sorry all your work was wasted. You will see to it I know about your
next show, won't you?
>Love,
> ===Anon.
Thanks for the kind words. You're a terrific guy for maintaining
this website and I know that everyone who participates in it really
appreciates it. Right now, I'm just beginning to market my self
professionally for commercial film because I have to establish a
career that may allow me to make a decent living. My original career
in electronics has basically floundered due to a downturn in the
industry, so I'm trying to make my twenty years of acting pay-off.
I'm making some progress but it takes a while to get established like
my friend,John Carozza, but I keep on auditioning and struggling and
sooner or later people will start to notice. Ninety percent of life
is just showing up! But, the important thing is that, it's so
difficult to get honest, and therefore "useful" appraisal of one's
work when doing "real work" on stage, like Glengarry or Rainmaker.
And that's what actors like about this site.
By the way, if you you can find time, I'm in a dinner show
participitary kind of thing at the Holiday Inn in Dedham starting May
7th. The commercials start running this week on 103.3FM. I'll comp
you out of my own pocket if you want to come. It runs through June.
Much thanks,
Ken LeTendre
Love,
===Anon.
Date: Tue, 20 Apr 1999 15:37:49 -0400
From: Don Gillis dgillis2@home.com
Thought you might enjoy these photo's. Zoe and Cameron (Christopher's
son). Also, pictures of Greg, Jen coming home from hospital. and of
course, Papa and Memere' with Zoe. Laura and Jen with, Zoe and Cameron.
Ah,, nice to be old!! (geez ..did I say that?)
~~~ Don
Not long ago Christopher (who does irrelevant things with the Pentagon for money, but
works in a rock band for the soul's sake) & Laura Gillis contributed Cameron to the clan, and
just a week ago Jennifer and Greg (a k a "Spaz") Gillis added Zoe, a second daughter, to
the total. Dianne and Don (grandparents) are doing well if last reports are true,
though hat-sizes are causing difficulties for the costume department.
Jennifer is still, in my eyes, the best choreographer whose work I saw last year, and
she and "Spaz" are doing community theater around Pawtucket, Rhode Island, mainly because
the professional theatrical life couldn't reliably guarantee they could raise a family.
And the grandparents will have to buy new buttons for their vests!
Love,
===Anon.
Date: Mon, 19 Apr 1999 21:20:13 EDT
From: Bjweaw@aol.com
As the world's foremost authority on local theater, I wondered if you could
answer a couple of questions which came up in a discussion this a.m. First,
what is the New Tremont Theatre; is it really a new theater; and is it an
Equity theater? Second, have you heard of a play called "The Silk Road"; is
it an original play by a local playwright, and if so what is the playwright's
name?
Hugs,
B.J. Williams
It's a deep-thrust/flexible-seating/black-box with risers and folding-chairs.
When it was used by the new Boston Theatre Works company, I think the "New" got
in-fixed into the theatre's name.
The Boston Theatre Works operates (I think) as a LORT contractor --- and, no, I
don't know what the LORT initials stand for! That means the audience is so small
(think a maximum of 300) that they do not pose an economic threat to the Equity
salary structure, so a small number of Equity actors are allowed to contract with
these producers for reduced compensation.
It's being done by the same people who did "The Wild Land" (closed 28
March) , who are ASIA ONSTAGE/THE CHINESE CULTURE INSTITUTE, and I think their
numbers are 1(627)524-4599 1(617)824-8000.
Essentially, they are a Community Theater, but the community is the Boston Asian
community. Their artistic director Doris C. J. Chu did a fine job with "The Wild
Land" both translating from Chinese and cutting/adapting for round-eye
consumption.
Love,
===Anon.
( a k a larry stark )
Date: Sun, 18 Apr 1999 10:19:37 -0700
From: Rosann Hickey rosann@sover.net
Well, as you can tell from this deluge of mail, the computer is up
again--who knows for how long?--and I have been able to romp through the
Mirror, browsing the Greenroom and reading reviews. O frabjous day!
And I have such a deep belief that we are all responsible for each other
that this piece really speaks to me.
And to air one last rant--I don't believe that Linda in Salesman is the
"saint" her sons believe her to be and as which she is frequently
portrayed. I feel that there is an insidious thread of whining that
runs through her text--a slow dripping of want, want, want that wears
away at WIllie's sense of stature. I think a lot of their duets are
about him trying to convince her that he is somebody and her saying yes
dear, but I want the latest refrigerator. This would give a whole new
level to her rant at the end of the show about why attention must be
paid.
God, I love theatre.
And thank you again for coming out to Trinity-- it really was above and
beyond the call of duty!
Love, Rosann
Date: Sun, 18 Apr 1999 02:24:27 PDT
From: "Ozgur Cuce" ozgurcuce@hotmail.com
Cordially yours.
Ozgur Cuce
Ankara University
Faculty of Letters
Dept.of American Culture and Lit.
Ankara / TURKEY
but I hope others will respond as well.
Date: Sat, 17 Apr 1999 12:32:40 EDT
From: ACMEACTOR@aol.com
I loved your review on Equus, I felt it was right on the mark. I do have to
question Mr. Wright's review though, did we see the same show? I saw Equus
opening weekend and felt it was one of the best shows I've seen on any level
in a long time. When the show started I did realize/notice that Mr. Berry was
in fact not a teenager, but 5 minutes into his performance it didn't make any
difference. I was able to suspend disbelief, which is what I believe we need
to do in theater. I don't know how familar Mr. Wright is with community
theater in this area but the draw for male actors, especially young male
actors is slim and I think when someone as talented as Mr. Berry presents
himself you grab him.
As for my review - The show was wonderful, if you haven't seen it - go.
Dave Sheppard
Date: 14 Apr 99 17:04:58 EDT
From: Shadow Boxing shadow-boxing@usa.net
I saw the letter below in which some is asking for a place that has regularly
scheduled staged readings in Mass. I run Shadow Boxing, a theater workshop
that meets in Cambridge twice a month on alternate Sunday nights, usually from
7-9pm. Writers bring in scenes (no more than 20 min at a time), and either
have a rehearsed version ready or grab some actors to do a cold reading. We
then discuss what we've seen and give the writer and actors feedback. Meetings
are free and open to anyone: actors, writers and directors.
Thanks,
Courtney Graff
Break a leg!
Love,
===Anon.
Date: Wed, 14 Apr 1999 13:10:34 -0400
From: Don Gillis dgillis2@home.com
Regards
Don Gillis
Date: Tue, 13 Apr 1999 15:46:18 -0500
From: Steve Remole Stephen.C.Remole-4@tc.umn.edu
Just a quick note to show my appreciation of the Theater Mirror:
Love,
===Anon.
Subject: I erred..there's more?
Date: Tue, 13 Apr 1999 11:19:30 -0400
From: Mort Kaplan mrex9@erols.com
Date: Mon, 12 Apr 1999 17:06:41 -0400
From: Mort Kaplan mrex9@erols.com
Date: Mon, 12 Apr 1999 19:06:10 -0400
From: "Aiden T" txra@prodigy.net
Do you know of any place that has regularly scheduled staged readings in the state of Mass or Rhode Island?
Playwrights' Theatre does readings frequently, and CentaStage does readings the
Mondays of every performace they do at the BCA.
Love,
===Anon.
Date: Sat, 10 Apr 1999 15:16:10 -0400
From: Nancy Curran Willis imadirektor@mediaone.net
Thank you soooo much for the wonderful words in support of our
production of "Equus" at the Footlight Club. It has truly been a
director's dream to work with such a talented ensemble of actors and
technicians who gave so much to make Schaffer's text come to life. This
has been one of the most satisfying creative experiences I have had in
over 25 years in this business and the support of theater lovers like
yourself has made it even more gratifying. Thank you again.
Best,
Nancy Curran Willis, director
Date: Thu, 1 Apr 1999 18:01:59 -0500 (est)
From: Suzanne Kramer suzanne@wordstock.com
I was referred to your organization by the Milford Performing
Arts Group, "Canticle."
I am interested in joining a group similar to "Canticle,"
however, Milford is quite a commute for me. I live in
Waltham.
Do you know of any similar groups in my area?
I am interested mainly in singing, but also in dancing
and acting. I'd like to somehow combine the three
if possible.
Does your organization have groups like this?
Any leads you could supply me with would be greatly
appreciated.
I look forward to hearing from you,
Suzie Kramer
Love,
===Anon.
Date: Wed, 31 Mar 1999 17:48:36 EST
From: Glimmer207@aol.com
Coming up later this season at the Ring are: "A Town Called Malice" by George
Hosker (Carpe Diem), "Spike Heels" by Teresa Rebeck (Generic Theater),
"Miss Julie" by Strindberg (First Age), and "The Tempest". I'll be glad to
submit reviews of these for your consideration.
There's some cool stuff coming up next season: an operatic adaptation of
Joyce's "Ulysses", "A Man For All Seasons", "Sylvia", "night, Mother", and
"Jeffrey" among others. I'm directing "Goodly Creatures" by William Gibson, a
historical drama about religious turmoil among the Puritans of 1630s Boston.
The Ring is a magic place to me, not only because it's been my theatrical home
for nearly six years. I recommend you make the trek up north. The more
attention we can get, the better =)
John
Date: Mon, 29 Mar 1999 15:43:04 -0500
From: James_Grana@vmed.org
Just a quick, but heartfelt note, to express my most sincere
appreciation relating to our recent production of "M. Butterfly". It
is an exciting and thrilling work, and your praise at the results,
were truly very special.
I would have loved being at the ceremony this evening, but I am
presently working on a production of "Blood Brothers" (once again at
AFD). Our 'Butterfly' director, Celia Couture, will be in attendance
and I have asked that she express my regrets.
Hopefully, there will be a time in the future where I can shake
your hand and voice my feelings to you in person.
Have a wonderful evening.
Most sincerely,
Jim Grana
Date: Mon, 29 Mar 1999 16:02:11 -0500
From: Nancy Curran Willis imadirektor@mediaone.net
Thanks for getting the announcement up so soon. I did another color one
because I knew how much you missed the last one when you had to remove
it!
Just wanted to also wish you and all involved a very successful party
tonight. And to thank you for your kind invitation. Unfortunately, I
have a Cue to Cue rehearsal for Equus tonight and will not be able to
attend. Lots of my friends should be there, however, so please say hi
to Fran and Jeff and Shelley Brown and John McAuliffe, Jimmy Grana,
Celia Couture, Doug Desilets, Jerry Bizants, and let's not forget - Mr.
Rick Lombardo.
Actually, Rick and I are having lunch this week to discuss his season
for next year. I am planning to work with him again. I'll keep you
informed.
Have a wonderful evening . . .
Best wishes,
Nancy CW
Love,
===Anon.
Date: Sun, 28 Mar 1999 20:41:30 EST
From: Mannie020@aol.com
My name is Anna Williams and I am 13 years old. I've performed with the
American Repertory Theater as "Louison" in the Imaginary Invalid, Boston Lyric
Opera as "Carla" in Werther and I appeared in their the Ballad of Baby Doe.I
also appeared in the world stage premiere of the Padrone with New England
Conservatory's Opera Theater and I most recently played "Gloria" in Wait Until
Dark with the Concord Players. Anyway, I was wondering if you knew of any good
theater programs for the summer (or during the season) Thank you very much,
Anna
PS I'm sorry for the resume. I just wanted you to know that I had some
experience!
Love,
===Anon.
Date: Wed, 17 Mar 1999 01:44:41 -0500
From: Brad and Tracey Guth
Reply-To: bradfordguth.96@alum.mit.edu
Love your web-site. I only wish my wife and I had the time to actually
see some of these shows!
Therein lies my question to you.
Another couple and us would like to subscribe to one of the Boston area
theatre series. All four of us have seen a fair amount of theatre, but
are by no means experts. We are prepared to be challenged, but at the
same time are looking for some good old fashioned entertainment (given
that it will be one of our only nights away from our children).
Brad Guth
Love,
===Anon.
Date: Fri, 19 Mar 1999 15:21:37 PST
From: "Jennifer Shambaugh" jenalison@hotmail.com
I was lucky enough to stumble across your wonderful website today, and
wondered if you could point me to other Boston acting resources on the
web or by phone. I am a professional, NYU-trained actor who is moving
to Boston in October from my current home near San Francisco, and I'm
looking for contacts! SF has a great umbrella organization called
Theatre Bay Area which publishes a monthly magazine with casting notices
as well as annual regional auditions, and I'd love to find something of
the same in MA! Is there anything like this? I also vaguely recall
going to Boston for a regional audition when in college in NY- maybe the
NETC's?- but I can't seem to find any info on them now. I would love
any assistance you could offer with tracking down these sort of
resources.
Thanks a zillion!
Jennifer Alison
Date: Thu, 18 Mar 1999 09:34:46 -0500
From: "A" ayersa@sprynet.com
Wanted to drop you a note and express thanks on behalf of our whole cast and production. I was truly shocked when you responded so
quickly that you would attend the production. We all appreciate that you took the time to come out and review "Top Girls", especially due to
the fact that it is a new theater company.
-Ashley Ayers
"I can take any empty space and call it a stage.
A person walks across that stage while someone watches,
and that is all that is necessary for Larry Stark to review it"!!!
Love,
===Anon.
Date: Wed, 17 Mar 1999 11:04:08 EST
From: "Russell Greene" rrgreene@hotmail.com
Once again, your kind words regarding our production of THE GLASS
MENAGERIE are most appreciated. It was with both excitement and fear
that I accepted the position of director of this production... After all
there have been such wonderfully acclaimed productions over the years
that make taking on the challenge of this piece so daunting.
However, once again, I must credit the actors and the production staff
for trusting me and being willing to explore this play anew with me.
Finding the reality of this piece for ourselves was a thrilling,
sometimes difficult, but always genuine ensemble effort.
Thank you both, again, for your encouraging and complimentary comments
on our work.
Russ
[BTW the incomparable Ms Montaperto's attention to detail -i.e. making
sure that the thumb tack is removed every night- surpasses that of
anyone that I know :-)]
Date: Tue, 16 Mar 1999 10:12:08 EST
From: BSproat@aol.com
Bobbie Sproat
I hope he can get back to it soon.
Love,
===Anon.
Date: Sun, 14 Mar 1999 22:04:09 -0500
From: Nancy Curran Willis imadirektor@mediaone.net
Just to say THANK YOU VERY MUCH for the kind posting of my announcement
in The TheaterMirror. I had several responses in the first two days
after it was posted. And, through the posting, I have found my
replacement horse. You are a life saver. Galloping on . . . I remain,
Sincerely,
Nancy CW
Happy to've corralled one fer ye, Ma'am
Love,
===Anon.
Date: Fri, 12 Mar 1999 18:21:49 -0500
From: whiteowl whiteowl@110.net
6 Waterville St.
North Grafton, MA 01536
To whom it may concern:
I am writing to inquire if there is any opportunity with your
organization I may fill. I am a theatre professional with both technical
and performance experience.
I haven't been involved in any theatre for a couple of years as I have
been working in the computer industry, and I am eager to return to the
theatre world.
I have experience in lighting, stagecraft, stage management, prop
building/scavenging, house management, dramaturgy, costume building, and
extensive computer skills.
I have a BA in theater from the University of Massachusetts.
I'm including a copy of my resume. I hope to hear from you soon.
Alan R. White
Date: Wed, 10 Mar 1999 15:24:35 -0500
From: Penelope Morel morelp@csps.com
I am very grateful for Theater Mirror. Last June I graduated from Principia College in Elsah IL with a BA in Theater. Now I live in Boston and I want to work in local productions. I have attended more than five auditions last week because I got your information in the internet.
Thank you very much.
Cordially,
Penelope Morel
PO Box 990902
Boston MA 02199
Tel. (617) 450-3689
(617) 738-6262
E-mail: morelp@csps.com
Maybe you had better concentrate on getting your Equity card first,
so you will have money enough from your acting career to support yourself an your agent.
But break a leg in any case!
Love,
===Anon.
Date: Mon, 8 Mar 1999 20:36:51 EST
From: MAcker201@aol.com
Perhaps some of them can offer some advice.
Love,
===Anon.
Date: Sun, 7 Mar 1999 18:16:39 EST
From: Theatrix66@aol.com
We have just hired a director for our production. If you could remove
Seeking director for Boston production of PARTY from your listings we would
appreciate it.Thank you for posting our notice. Keep up the good work!
Sincerely,
John McDonough
Date: Thu, 4 Mar 1999 21:44:15 -0800
From: "sharyn" sharyn@wolfenet.com
I went to LA at the beginning of February where "Felicity" was read by the Hatchlings. (aka Mathew Gallagher, Barbara Ross, Michael
Whitton, Amber Lopez, Shelby Medland, Andrew Bond and Stepanie Dees) what a remarkable group. I believe it was Stephanie who said
afterward, "We only do new works, you know. And this is a brand new classic."
It was a wonderful evening and it was exciting to be a part of their vitality.
http://www.cwave.com/users/sdempsey/shipley.htm
All best,
Sharyn
Date: Thu, 25 Feb 1999 16:19:33 -0500
From: Donna Corbett Donna.Corbett@digital.com
I did get to see "Mildred Wild" but only because an old friend with a car
was a cast-member
It would be much better for everyone if you would encourage Anyone who sees
plays at the Quannapowit Players to SEND ME A REVIEW! And it wouldn't have to
be one published in a Reading-area newspaper, OR sent to me via e-mail.
(Beverly Creasey send me her reviews through the post-box.)
I expected when we started that I'd get LOTS of reviews from people who just
happened to see theater.
Don't people have opinions of their OWN anymore?????
Love,
===Puzzled
( a k a Anon. )
Date: Thu, 25 Feb 1999 09:23:06 PST
From: jcdevore@excite.com
sincerely,
j.c. devore
I was just lucky enough to have been in the audience.
I'm sorry I missed your appearance at Harvard. Keep us informed of what you're
doing next, and I'll make more of an effort, okay?
Love,
===Anon.
Date: Wed, 24 Feb 1999 17:55:38 EST
From: CHopkins99@aol.com
Last fall, when I had the opportunity to play Bananas Shaughnessy in the
Footlight Club's production of HOUSE OF BLUE LEAVES, I was in seventh heaven.
I was playing a dream role, within a dream ensemble, being directed by a dream
director (Gail DiBiak) at my "home" of 18 years, the Footlight Club in Jamaica
Plain. It couldn't have been any better.
Candace Hopkins
I think good work deserves recognition, wherever I find it.
Love,
===Anon.
Date: Tue, 23 Feb 1999 13:58:27 -0500
From: Tom Berry tberry@allaire.com
Just wondering.
keep up the good work,
tom
IT'S A CALENDAR YEAR 31 Dec TO 31 Dec...
And to get some idea of the companies I myself have visited, check my
.
I got to the Quannapowit Players, Reagle Players, Turtle Lane Playhouse, Vokes
Players, and the Wharf Rats in Salem. One of the reasons I didn't see more
community theater productions is that I don't drive, and have to hitch rides or
use public transport.
Love,
===Anon.
Date: Tue, 23 Feb 1999 10:21:06 -0800
From: dori appel applcart@mind.net
Geralyn Horton forwarded your enthusiastic write-up of the Wharf Rat
January Festival to the International Center for Women Playwrights internet
list, of which I'm a member.Subsequently, Sharyn Shipley sent a note
telling me about your long-standing friendship and the great help which
you've been to her in relation to "Felicity".
Dori Appel
LARRY STARK KNOWS A PLACE IN SALEM CALLED In A Pig's Eye WHERE WE CAN LUNCH!
Date: Tue, 23 Feb 1999 09:41:42 PST
From: "Patrick Wang" patrickbox@hotmail.com
I played the role of Song Liling in Arlington Friends of the Drama's
production of M. Butterfly, and I am writing to you for two reasons.
Thanks again for the great service and kind words.
Sincerely,
Patrick Wang
LARRY STARK SAW THE CLOSING PERFORMANCE, AND SO DIDN'T REVIEW...
And I didn't see any "weaknesses" at all. The stage was too small for all that
the sets had to contain, but that was dealt with.
I don't envy you the job of carving out of that seamless whole a quarter hour
excerpt that will either represent the flavor of the whole show, or will stand on
its own. And I wonder if the rest of the community theatres that are members of
EMACT are ready for anything like your transformation scene.
Break a leg all!
Love,
===Anon.
Date: Mon, 22 Feb 1999 14:17:13 EST
From: CNajarian@aol.com
Well, have you heard it? The roar coming from AFD? My phone has been
ringing off the hook, my email jammed...people are so excited by your
nominations and thoughts about M. Butterfly. To think that we are in the
running with professional groups is putting everyone over the edge! How can
we thank you?!
Celia is just thrilled. I think it's especially nice for her...she's just
finished her third and final year as President at AFD. She brought our
theater through quite a time, a $300,000 renovation, our 75th
anniversary.....What a way to go!!!
I did wonder if you knew A Few Good Men was in the 1997 season? It was a fab
show as well....for certain reasons I deemed it A Few Good Hunks.....
Anyway, you have made our DAY, MONTH, YEAR!!!
Always,
Carolyn
All I do is say the sooth, and "M. Butterfly" blew me away!
Break a leg all......
Love,
===Anon.
Date: Sun, 21 Feb 1999 17:29:58 -0500
From: "J Tormey" jtormey@mediaone.net
Renaissance Direct
47 South Main St.
Ipswich, MA 01938
978/356-2465
jtormey@mediaone.net
LARRY STARK DOESN'T KNOW, BUT SOMEBODY MUST...
From: AlexnZoe@aol.com
Love your web-site!! Only, I live in Los Angeles...know of any similar sites
for California?
Thanks-
Linda Hatton :)
Another idea would be to do an AltaVista search for major-city newspapers,
and see if their listing-information is carried on the website. (The Boston
GLOBE does that here, but it's an awkward site to handle.)
If you surf for half an hour, I'll bet you will find something...
Date: Fri, 19 Feb 1999 01:26:24 EST
From: AlexnZoe@aol.com
I have found web-sites, just none as cool as yours. :-) Thanks for the
address for american theater web - that is a pretty good one.... I still like
yours the best.
-Linda Hatton :)
From: David G mystd@tiac.net
new address
dgoldstein@comedytheater.com
Thank you!!!!
dgoldstein@comedytheater.com
http://www.comedytheater.com
Date: Wed, 17 Feb 1999 20:48:58 EST
From: Crcormier@aol.com
Craig Cormier
Love,
===Anon.
Date: Wed, 17 Feb 1999 09:14:44 EST
From: Singsowell@aol.com
Love your web site.....
I am a singer/actress looking especially for an "in" to musical theatre and
would like to audition for as many opportunities as possible.
Please advise,
also, do you have a print newsletter of sorts for mailing purposes? I would
greatly appreciate a subscription.
Regards,
D
Telephone: 617-720-6066;
Fax: 617-720-4275
Email: StageSorce@aol.com
Snail Mail:
StageSource
88 Tremont Street
Suite 714
Boston, MA 02108
An annual subscription to NEED (12 monthly issues) is $20.00, or $35.00 for 2 years. NEED is also sold for $2.00 per issue at these locations throughout
New England: Send a check or money order to:
NEED Subscriptions, P.O. Box
88, Burlington, MA 01803
((NOT Their on-line website, but the newsstand magazine))
(I only list audition calls that come to me via e-mail; I don't have the time to
chase for completeness)
Break a leg, and keep in touch.
Love,
===Anon.
Date: Wed, 17 Feb 1999 12:57:47 EST
From: Singsowell@aol.com
Love the line "soprano-eat-soprano" world out there....
Boy, did you ever hit the nail on the head with that one!!!!
Best wishes,
God Bless,
Dawn Marie
Date: Mon, 15 Feb 1999 20:08:13 -0800 (PST)
From: "Kerry C." broadwaydiva@yahoo.com
Thanks!
Winthrop Playmakers
60 Hermon Street, PO Box 5, Winthrop, MA 02152
617-539-1175
Also, the DELEVENA Company did the show last year, and the BCA
boxoffice [ (1(617)426-0320 ] should have a number for them.
Break a leg with it!
Love,
===Anon.
Date: Mon, 15 Feb 1999 19:35:12 EST
From: Crcormier@aol.com
Craig Cormier
Anyone else heard anything?
Love,
===Curious
Date: Mon, 15 Feb 1999 02:42:47 +0100
From: "elfakir@ctv" elfakir@ctv.es
Love,
===Bemildered
( a k a Anon. )
Date: Sun, 14 Feb 1999 12:37:01 GMT
From: RikP@pobox.com (Rik Pierce)
I just thought you might like to know that I've been running a
tracking device on the Concord Players site and I just discovered that
23 percent of all the hits I get that have come from a referral have
been from your Theatremirror site. There have been 23 hits from you
and the next closest was 13 from AACT. So, thanks ! :-)
Rik in Carlisle, MA
http://concordplayers.org
Love,
===Anon.
Date: Sun, 14 Feb 1999 07:39:17 EST
From: ROOSTA2@aol.com
I would like to know if there is any information that you could give
me about the actress, Kathy St. George. We went to the same high school and
college. Some time ago I received a newspaper clipping from a friend in
Massachusetts. The clipping showed a picture of Kathy and the fact that she
would be starring in a show called "Definitely Doris ". I have tried,
unsuccessfully, to find a way to contact her and I hoped that you or someone
in your organization might be able to help me. I would settle for an E-mail
adds if she has one or maybe the town that she resides in. It has been about
25 years since I have seen her and I thought it might be nice to check in with
her. FYI - I am a happily married man with children and live in Fayetteville,
GA. The purpose of my interest in contacting Kathy is entirely honorable ! If
you could provide me with information or pass this on to Kathy I would
appreciate it.
Thanks,
John O'Connor
Love,
===Anon.
Date: Sat, 13 Feb 1999 15:07:29 -0500
From: Julie Lydon julie.lydon@cbpr.com
I read your review of Boston Theatre Work's production of Hamlet this
morning. I was especially pleased to read the following portion of your
review:
I look forward to meeting you one day in person. Until then, I'll keep
your encouraging words in my mind.
Sincerely,
Julie Lydon
First Player and Understudy for Ophelia in Boston Theatre Work's
production of Hamlet
julie.lydon@cbpr.com
LARRY STARK INSISTS HE MERELY SAYS THE SOOTH!
Love,
===Anon.
Date: Wed, 10 Feb 1999 11:59:42 -0500
From: Dave Haig dwh@c4.net
Artistic Director
STAGES Theatre Co.
Cape Cod
Love,
===Anon.
Date: Mon, 08 Feb 1999 22:38:17 -0500
From: Gus Platas "Platas@frontiernet.net"@frontiernet.net
===Anon.
date: Thu, 28 Jan 1999 04:13:32 -0500
From: E Noonan egrace@ultranet.com
--
egrace@ultranet.com
http://www.geocities.com/~acter
(Which reminds me, I'm late getting up the new one for today!
Love,
===Anon.
Date: Mon, 25 Jan 1999 15:06:05 -0500
From: Geralyn Horton ghorton@tiac.net
Sub: Personal News from Todd Oson
for l.stark4@genie.geis.com; Tue, 19 Jan 1999 06:54:30 GMT
Todd
Date: Tue, 26 Jan 1999 16:32:43 -0500
From: Nancy Curran Willis imadirektor@mediaone.net
Many of you know that I just completed working as Assistant Director (I
got a promotion) to Rick Lombardo at New Repertory Theater in Newton on
a Boston area premier called "Beast on the Moon." During our production
process, WGBH did a documentary on pulling together a play. They filmed
early discussions with designers, early blocking and acting rehearsals
and the final product once we hit the stage. They also interviewed the
director, playwright and cast about the meaning of doing this particular
play for them. It is a beautiful, poignant, funny, heart-wrenching
piece about two young survivors of the Armenian genocide and their
struggle to make it in America. I was pleased to be a part of this
production. And even though any shot of the AD will probably wind up on
the cutting room floor - I thought you may be interested in seeing the
piece. It will be shown on WGBH TV (channel 2) Wednesday night (this
week) at 9:30 pm. I also recommend you immediately get tickets for the
play which runs thru Feb 14th. Enjoy!
Luv,
Nancy Curran Willis
Date: Tue, 26 Jan 1999 12:15:13 -0800
From: "sharyn" sharyn@wolfenet.com
"Felicity" is being looked at in a number of places. Thanks for believing in her and me.
Sharyn
Love,
===Anon.
Date: Tue, 26 Jan 99 07:45:10 -0500
From: Laney Roberts wharfrat@shore.net
It is my pleasure to know you, Larry.
More inportantly, thanks for sharing the
week with us!
Much Love!
Laney
Date: Tue, 19 Jan 1999 10:42:29 PST
From: "hussein el-ali" elalihussein@hotmail.com
i thank you for including me in your brand names.
i sincerely think that you were too kind with me and my work that
you have seen.
i was feeling very trepidatious about my theatrical future in this city,
since my experiences in it so far have been, for a variety of reasons,
less than ideal. however, your kind words are a definite spur to
perseverance.
thank you again.
h. alex el-ali
IT WAS THE ONE-ACTS THAT CONVINCED ME.
I don't think good directors are rare around Boston, but I'd hate to lose
any one of them. Theater here is not an easy life, and the only reward,
apparently, is that life itself. But the fact that I could make a
"Brand Names" list at all, despite all the adversities, means that some
people, including me, refuse to give up.
Persever, man. And keep me informed about where you'e working next.
Love,
===Anon.
Date: Thu, 21 Jan 1999 17:11:13 -0500
From: "Jeffrey (my friends call me ISH!) Isherwood" ish@borg.com
I'm entering a competition to direct a one act play for the Rome Community
Theater in Rome NY, and want to take a shot at a show that I saw many years
ago when I was young called "Adaptation" by Elaine May.
Much Thanx in advance!
Jeffrey Isherwood
Rome Community Theatre
Public Relations and Advertising Director
ish@borg.com
Phone: (315) 337-7666
Fax: (315) 330-8009
"Every now and then, when you're on stage, you hear the best sound a player
can hear. It's a sound you can't get in movies or in television. It is the
sound of a wonderful, deep silence that means you've hit them where they
live." Shelley Winters
YOU NEED BAKER'S PLAYS, ISH!
If they have it in stock, they'll be able to handle the rights and royalties as well.
If they don't, they can get it. If they don't handle it, they'll tell you who does.
And by e-mail, too!!!
(I thought EVERYBODY checked with Baker's first...)
Love,
===Anon.
Date: Wed, 20 Jan 1999 19:03:41 -0700
From: Judy davidson@dcache.net
Thought someone there could help me. What is the origin of the
term"Green Room:
The answer always comes up "Apparently that was the color of the room
where Sam Pepys and Sam Johnson made dates with Nell Gwyn"
Well, not that specific, but that is the only serious answer anyone has
given: that room was that color once, and it entered the language.
I don't know when the term entered the language, but I think it was
around the time when "actresses" began plying their trades... and going
onstage in plays occasionally, too!
Love,
===Anon.
Date: Sat, 16 Jan 1999 17:38:17 EST
From: BrenHow@aol.com
Weston Walls
LARRY STARK WOULD SAY 'Break a leg!" BUT........
In this case, noting the reckless abandon with which you fling yourself about
the stage, maybe I should just note that Rick and his New Rep are Brand Names
for me, and congratulate you on getting cast.
Love,
===Anon.
Date: Thu, 14 Jan 1999 21:16:46 -0400
From: TIAC CUSTOMER username@tiac.net
Larry:
Thanks for getting the review on line so quickly. There is a correction
you should make however. The Stage Manager of this production is Laurie
A. Light. She is a member of Actors Equity Ass. so please make that
correction. David Lurie is a non union asst. and a student at BU.
Then a thought. You speak of Moliers Rhymed cuplets in your review.
The Miser (L'avare) was written by Molier in PROSE. Bermel is to
Molieres prose work. (The Miser, Doctor in spite of Himself-to name a
couple) what Wilbur is to his verse work. I think you know me well
enough that I would never allow a director to use a prose adaptationof
a verse work. Its just not my style. Nor is it the style of David
Fox. I just thought I would pass this along. The Phoenix made the same
gaff when they reviewd my production of The Miser (Publick-1991) They
NEVER wrote a retractionand it still sits in my craw.
Again thanks and I'll see you at The Baltimore Waltz.
Spiro Veloudos
Producing Artistic Director
A RED-FACED LARRY STARK HAS MADE THE CHANGES!
Date: Wed, 13 Jan 1999 11:53:58 EST
From: NewRepThtr@aol.com
What can I say? I'm very flattered with the comments in your recent Cricket's
Notebook, but mostly I'm so pleased that the artists who work at New Rep so
regularly, and are such an integral part of the "New Rep Team," were noted by
you. Theatre is, of course, a collaborative art form, and I'm very proud of
the artists who choose to create their work on the New Rep stage.
Cheers,
Rick Lombardo
LARRY STARK "CALLS 'EM AS HE SEES 'EM!"
I think everyone who loves theater has a personal "Brand Names" list,
whether it's conscious or unconscious. It's just that I get to talk
about it here in The Mirror.
Anyone else like to send us a personal list of reliable theatrical
"Brand Names"?
Good stuff should be talked about!
Love,
===Anon.
Date: Fri, 08 Jan 1999 02:39:09 -0400
From: "Tristram Perry" tperry@bostonconservatory.edu
Marketing Associate
NO, LARRY STARK DOESN'T
Some two years ago we compiled a mailing-list of Companies, hoping to
interest them in buying advertising. But we've never "mailed" anything
to readers, snail or e.
Probably the simplest way to get to "our readers" is with a Special
Announcement. Or (dare I suggest) a short-term Banner Ad???
Let's dicker......
Love,
===Devious money-grubber
( a k a Anon. )
Date: Sun, 3 Jan 1999 09:56:31 -0500
From: "Career Services" career@bostonconservatory.edu
I would like permission to reprint Chipper Charley at Boston Conservatory by Beverly
Creasey in The Boston Conservatory Alumni magazine the Trichordon. Please inform me
of