News

"BEAST is just too much fun to call it anything but wonderful" - Times Union.

Wed, 16 May 2012 05:37:33 +0000

Beauty and the Beast @ Proctors, 5/15/12

May 16, 2012 at 12:03 am by Michael Eck

by Michael Eck

SCHENECTADY – Lavish isn’t even the word for “Disney’s Beauty and the Beast.”
The big, bright musical is at Proctors through Sunday and it’s magnificent family entertainment.
You know the story already, and all of the classic elements are here, but the telling makes it fresh, even for adults.

Read Michael Ecks glowing report at

http://blog.timesunion.com/localarts/beauty-and-the-beast-proctors-51512/23203/

Beauty/Beast: “You’ve seen this once. Maybe twice. See it again.” - DiMaggio

Wed, 16 May 2012 05:32:11 +0000

Beauty and the Beast – Review

By rich on May 16, 2012 with Comments 0

Beauty and the Beast – Review

Proctors, Schenectady, NY

proctors.org

“You’ve seen this once. Maybe twice. See it again.”

*****

by Richard DiMaggio

This is a show you’ve seen before, but it is time to see it again. You watched the movies, probably own the VHS now DVD now iTunes download, and can’t forget Angela Lansbury’s very own rendition. Yes, it is a play in our hearts and souls. But this current production is one of the best I have seen. The scenery is spectacular, the acting competent, the voice of Beauty (Emily Behny) simply wonderful, and who among us didn’t love Lumiere (Michael Haller), Mrs. Potts (Julia Louise Holsack), Madame Bouche (Jen Bechter) and everyone I missed?

Read Rich DiMaggio's full report at

http://www.didyouweekend.com/515-520-beauty-and-the-beast-review/

God of Carnage is SAVAGELY FUNNY says METROLAND's John Rodat

Thu, 10 May 2012 19:34:59 +0000

Savagely Funny

by John Rodat on May 10, 2012 · 0 comments

By Yasmina Reza, directed by Maggie Mancinelli-Cahill Capital Repertory Theatre, through May 27

God of Carnage

Rating: 0 (from 0 votes)

For a play with such an apocalyptic title, the setting and stakes of God of Carnage are mundane: Two couples, the Raleighs and the Novaks, meet in the Cobble Hill apartment of the latter, to discuss a playground altercation between their sons. This summit starts with strained civility but devolves into an indulgent festival of expression. Aided (or impaired, I suppose) by what we’re told is a particularly good rum, the quartet careen from unctuous attempts at diplomacy to truculent outbursts and ad hominem attacks. But for all the conversational combativeness, there is little real carnage: the only casualties being a cell phone and a bouquet of tulips. (An out-of-print art book is injured, but expected to recover.)

If it sounds slight, it is. Yasmina Reza’s play brushes against some basic, broad philosophical questions—well, one, really: Is savagery man’s natural state?—in an environment so rarefied as to obviate the question. A lawyer and his wife sharing liquor and dessert with a successful home-furnishing entrepreneur and his armchair-activist/author wife—however pointed the put-downs—is the stuff of sitcoms.

Well, then, is God of Carnage funny?

Read the full review at:

http://metroland.net/2012/05/10/savagely-funny/

Third Annual Electric City Couture Show brings flash/panache on May 18

Tue, 08 May 2012 19:55:02 +0000

Third Annual Electric City Couture Fashion Show
To Highlight New & Established Local Designers

Friday, May 18, 7PM
in the GE Theatre at Proctors
-------------

Schenectady, NY – May 8, 2012 – Electric City Couture and Proctors proudly present the 3rd ANNUAL ELECTRIC CITY COUTURE FASHION SHOW in the GE Theatre at Proctors on Friday, May 18. The event, created and produced in conjunction with the 5th anniversary of Schenectady Art Night, begins at 5 PM. Admission is free and the event is open to the public.

Joleen Button and Katie Pray — both well-known designers throughout the extended Capital Region — are the creative architects of this year’s glittering fashion extravaganza.

Master of Ceremony for the event will be Marisa Jacques, Sportscaster at YNN.

Speaking on behalf of Proctors and as former curator of Art Night/Proctors, Marketing Director Richard Lovrich was hard-pressed to contain his enthusiasm for the May 18 event:

"We are so proud to have Electric City Couture return to Proctors GE Theatre. The level of professionalism, showmanship and opportunity this event affords local designers — both professional and amateur — is without equal in the region. This show has been a huge success since it debuted at Proctors three years ago. Electric City Couture has evolved to become synonymous with the best in local fashion, modeling, hair design and makeup. We are prepared yet again to applaud the hard work and success of the Electric City Couture team and Proctors crew and staff.

"Those lucky enough to arrive early at this first-come, first-admitted event," he added, "can be assured of a show that will make them proud of what is happening in the new Downtown Schenectady by people who have chosen to nurture their creative energies in our Capital Region."

“Electric City Couture is designed to celebrate art in the form of fashion...” comments Joleen (show co-producer), “providing a platform to exhibit up-and-coming designers from around the region.”

“Unlike most local fashion shows, we are creating a venue for original local designers with juried lines...” stated Corey Aldrich (show co-producer), “We are looking to create a real runway experience and all the energy that comes with it. We are bringing on the FABULOUS!”

This fashion-focused night in Downtown Schenectady will highlight up-and-coming Regional designers in a pure Runway Experience. In addition to showcasing signature collections, the evening’s activities will include signature collections and a fashion competition for the Best of Broadway category.

Best of Broadway Competition
The fashion competition – Best of Broadway – will be judged by Capital Region luminaries, who together bring a unique perspective of theater and fashion:

Best of Broadway judging criteria will include five categories: Inspiration; (piece should have a direct inspiration from Broadway); Creativity; Quality and Construction; Use of Color and Fabric; and Presentation

Other extended Capital Region designers participating in the show include: Jenn Dugan of Jen's Creative Outlet, Christina Collins Clothing, Lakeshia Motley of KaNarri Designs, Jessyka Neitzel and Danielle Breicenbach, Kim Vanyo of Khymanyo Studios, Sarah Roberts and Christine Marshall, Van Demps, Jenny McShan. Live DJ music provided by Schenectady based, Dee Jay Ofi.

It Takes a Village
Headline sponsors for Electric City Couture’s include Proctors, 2440 Design Studio, Lady Button Designs, OE Pro Photo, and Albany Talent.

Subsponsors for the event include Philippe Bevan Beauty Lounge and Studio; Symetry Salon; Stiletto Salon; Cool Cat DJ, and Lori Lepage's Living Out Loud!

______________________________
About KATIE PRAY - Winner of the 2008 Albany Project Larkway Fashion Competition, Katie has had design features in Upstate Magazine and recently worked with emerging NYC stylist Colin McDonald. In March 2011 and 2012, Katie was selected by Burdastyle and ETSY to show in their DIY Fashion Show during the SXSW Festival in Austin, TX. Pray participated in the 2011 Wearable Art Runway Show at Möbius in Boston. She is also excited to announce the recent launch of her prom gown line for Rockabella Boutique in Saratoga Springs. Recently, Katie graduated out of her home to a new workspace / studio in Green Island. For more information visit www.katiepray.com.

About JOLEEN BUTTON - 'Lady Button' has won awards locally for her work and has been featured on Ann Parillo’s Schenectady Today Show on OSM, the All Over Albany website, and The Sage College’s Alumni Magazine. In 2009, Joleen won Albany's Project Larkway Fashion Competition, additionally she has been featured at RPI Fashion Shows and recently served on the panel of judges for the High School Regional Art Exhibition and the Media Arts Festival. Button founded and coordinates Proctor’s annual fashion show, Electric City Couture as well as fashion show segments in their Variety Shows. In 2004, she won a scholarship to study abroad in Paris, where she worked backstage at couture fashion shows. For more information visit www.joleenbutton.com.

CONTACTS
For more information on the THIRD ANNUAL ELECTRIC CITY COUTURE FASHION SHOW at Proctors on Friday, May 18, contact:

• Corey Aldrich Co-Producer | Owner at 2440 Design Studio
Email: corey@2440designstudio.com | phone: 518.928.4622

• Joleen Button Co-Producer | Owner and Fashion Designer Lady Button
Email: info@ladybutton.com | phone: 518.605.2896

- 30 -

GOD OF CARNAGE "guaranteed to generate a lot of laughter," says Goepfert

Wed, 02 May 2012 23:47:43 +0000

Review: ‘Carnage’ is amusing, but light

Published: Wednesday, May 02, 2012

By BOB GOEPFERT
entertainment518@journalregister.com

ALBANY — “God of Carnage” is a clever and amusing 90 minutes of theater about four people who all suffer the worst day of their life.

What makes this comedy funny is that each individual is to blame for his or her own discomfort. There are few things more enjoyable than people with a superior view of themselves revealing their true selves.

The play, at Capital Repertory Theatre through May 27, is guaranteed to generate a lot of laughter. The lines are funny, the situation broad and the physical comedy spot-on. Even though the characters in the show are sophisticated, wealthy and influential, they are victims of low humor.

“God of Carnage” shows who people are when they stop behaving the way they want others to perceive them.

...Go to “God of Carnage” and expect to learn something about human behavior and you’ll be disappointed. Go expecting to laugh at superior people who show themselves as less than superior and you’ll have fun.

WHERE: Capital Repertory Theater,

111 Pearl St., Albany

WHEN: 7:30 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday;

8 p.m. Friday; 3 and 8 p.m. Saturday; 2 p.m. Sunday, through May 27

TICKETS: $20 to $60; 445-7469; www.capitalrep.org

Read critic BOB GOEPFERT's fascinating analysis at

http://www.saratogian.com/articles/2012/05/02/entertainment/doc4fa1930b8897f918595322.txt

The USAF Band of Liberty! Sun., May 6 presented by The Gazette & Proctors

Tue, 01 May 2012 12:02:11 +0000

The Gazette and Proctors

Proudly Present

The USAF Band of Liberty

Sunday, May 6, 3 pm at Proctors

Free, Open to All

----------

Get Tickets at the Gazette; Limited Seating

-----------

Captain David A. Alpar, Commander and Conductor

Schenectady, NY – April 25, 2012 –Composers such as the legendaryJohn Philip Sousa developed the American military band sound that has been a worldwide sensation since the 19^th century. The United States Air Force Band of Liberty is one of 10 Air Force Bands nationwide that exemplifies this American tradition, providing professional musical products and services for official military, recruiting, and community relations’ events – while concurrently fostering our national heritage.

Stationed at nearby Hanscom AFB near Boston, Massachusetts, the exciting USAF Band of Liberty will perform a concert at Proctors on Sunday, May 6 at 3 PM. Proctors is located in Downtown Schenectady at 432 State Street.

The performance will be free and open to the public.

Those planning to attend the concert

may pick up tickets at

The Gazette, 2345 Maxon Rd. Ext. Schenectady.

Monday - Friday 8 - 4. Limited tickets available.

The United States Air Force Band of Liberty consists of 45 active duty personnel who are assigned to two primary ensembles--the Concert Band and the Afterburner popular music group. The band also has several subgroups, including the Ceremonial Band, Liberty Jazz Band, Colonial Brass, New England Winds, Mach Four, and the Bay State Winds. The band performs approximately four hundred engagements a year, and has appeared at such venues as Lincoln Center in New York City and the Hatch Shell in Boston.

The United States Air Force Band of Liberty is dedicated to using the power of music to inspire our Air Force members and the great nation we serve, producing innovative musical programs and products, and communicating Air Force excellence throughout New England and around the globe. This select group of professional Airmen-musicians who support the global Air Force mission by providing outstanding musical products and services for official military, recruiting, and community relations events, and by fostering America's rich national heritage. It has been performing for military and civilian audiences throughout the New England region for more than 30 years.

Known originally as the 541st Air Force Band of the Southwest stationed at Luke Air Force Base, Arizona, the unit relocated to Pease AFB, New Hampshire in 1978. Renamed the Air Force Band of New England, the band brought its musical message of pride, patriotism, and professionalism to concerts and events throughout New England. In 1991, the band received its current name and was assigned to Electronics Systems Center, Hanscom Air Force Base, in Massachusetts.

Potential PROGRAM

United States Air Force Band of Liberty

Captain David A. Alpar, Commander and Conductor

The Star Spangled Banner	Francis Scott Key
Overture to “The Barber of Seville”.	Gioacchino Rossini
Spanish Waltz.	George Hamilton Green SSgt Michael Correa, Marimba
Concerto in C Major	Antonio Vivaldi, Airman First Class Carolyn Sierichs, Flute
40th Celebration	SSgt Mateo Ayala-Roman
C’est L’extase	Claude Debussy
Clair de lune	Claude Debussy, Technical Sergeant Michele Harris, Soprano
Blue Shades	Frank Ticheli

There will be a 10-minute intermission. *Garry Owen Marchby James M. Fulton King Cotton*by John Philip Sousa -	Text Poll March Audience will choose from among the following: TEXT: OWEN TEXT: COTTON

Smoke Gets in Your Eyes	Jerome Kern
Can’t Help Lovin’ That Man	Oscar Hammerstein Airman Basic Ashley Cook, Soprano
Tribute to Liza Minnelli
Salute to the Armed Services	arr. Robert Cray
God Bless the USA	Lee Greenwood
The Stars and Stripes Forever	John Philip Sousa

Contact:

For more information on The USAF Band of Liberty at Proctors on

Sunday, May 6, at 3 pm, contact:

Christopher Stahl, TSgt

USAF Band of Liberty, Bassoon

Publicity/PA Shop, NCOIC

Recording Projects, NCOIC

Phone: 781.225.5896

Fax: 781.377.8564

Disney's BEAUTY and the BEAST, LIVE at Proctors, May 15 - 20. Beautiful family fare!

Sat, 28 Apr 2012 17:36:22 +0000

NETworks presents

Disney's Beauty and the Beast

Live On Stage!

May 15 - 20

The Mainstage at Proctors

THE MOST BEAUTIFUL LOVE STORY EVER TOLD COMES TO LIFE!

Schenectady, NY – April 27, 2012 -- DISNEY’S BEAUTY AND THE BEAST is the classic story of Belle, a young woman in a provincial town, and the Beast, who is really a young prince trapped in a spell placed by an enchantress. If the Beast can learn to love and be loved, the curse will end and he will be transformed to his former self. But time is running out. If the Beast does not learn his lesson soon, he and his household will be doomed for all eternity. The smash hit Broadway musical, DISNEY’S BEAUTY AND THE BEAST is based on the Academy Award-winning animated feature film. This eye-popping spectacle has won the hearts of over 35 million people worldwide. This classic musical love story is filled with unforgettable characters, lavish sets and costumes, and dazzling production numbers including Be Our Guest and the beloved title song.

Experience the romance and enchantment of family-friendly DISNEY’S BEAUTY and the Beast: Running time, 130 minutes with one intermission.

Ticket prices for DISNEY’S BEAUTY AND THE BEAST are;  Tue - Thu $20, $30, $40, $50 & $65;  Fri - Sat $20, $45, $60, $70 & $85. Tickets are available at Proctors Box Office (518) 346-6204 or online at proctors.org.

Discounts on tickets are available for groups of 20 or more. A listing of shows and pricing may be found on proctors.org/group_sales or by contacting Proctors Group Sales at 518-382-3884 ext. 139.

DISNEY’S BEAUTY AND THE BEASTat Proctors is made possible with public funds from the New York State Council on the Arts, celebrating 50 years of building strong, creative communities in New York State's 62 counties.

DISNEY’S BEAUTY AND THE BEAST is part of the Keeler Broadway on Tour Series.

Sub-sponsors forDISNEY’S BEAUTY AND THE BEAST are: Fenimore Asset Management / FAM FUNDS, Deanna's Cafe & Catering, Logical Net, NBT Bank, STS Steel and Stewart's Shops.

Take Part in The Henry Schaffer TheatreTalk

Pre-show, Thurs., May 17 at 1PM (before the 2PM performance).

“This series of talks is intended to enrich the experience of patrons at Proctors by giving them additional perspectives on the shows they are seeing,” said CEO Philip Morris. “We are appreciative of the H. Schaffer Foundation for their support of this effort to enrich the cultural experiences of those attending our shows,” he added.   

The Henry Schaffer TheatreTalk series offers pre- or post-performance arts discussions to ticket buyers free of charge. The discussions are delivered by Company artists to engage patrons in a unique forum for learning about a specific performance. Audience members are encouraged to ask questions about the artists, repertoire and performance, creating a dynamic interaction geared toward increasing awareness about the Arts.

Disney’s Beauty and the Beast

Looking into the heart of an all-new ‘Beauty’

By Brendan Lemon

Disney’s Beauty and the Beastnow embarked on a lavish and visually re-imagined new tour presented by NETworks, is one of best loved of all musicals. It’s easy to understand why. Its classic story -- of a beautiful village girl, Belle, who is first repelled by, then attracted to a gruff yet big-hearted Beast --is indeed, as one of the show’s numbers has it, “a tale as old as time.” The songs (music by Alan Menken; lyrics by Howard Ashman and Tim Rice) are almost criminally tuneful. And the musical’s appeal crosses age barriers: truly, “Beauty” is an experience that can be enjoyed by child and adult alike.

Many of the songs – the charming “Belle,” the infectious “Something There,” and the spectacular hospitality anthem “Be Our Guest” – were written for the 1991 animated movie, which was the first – and until 2010, the only – animated film ever to be nominated for the Best Picture Oscar. The movie’s status not just in cinematic history but in critical lore was cemented when the New York Times’ then-theater critic Frank Rich, called Beauty and the Beast the best musical of the year – in any format.

Disney took the cue, and soon started things rolling for the live adaptation. Several new songs, as well as the book by Linda Woolverton, were written for the stage version, which opened on Broadway at the Palace Theater on April 18, 1994, and went on to become the seventh-longest running production in Broadway history.

Rob Roth, who directed the Broadway premiere and is back at the helm for the new tour, says that the “story of the show is about seeing past the exterior of a person and into his or her heart.” He says that conveying that feeling is key to any production of “Beauty.” What’s fresh about the tour, he adds, is not just the timeless moral but a new approach to the visuals.

“So few directors have the opportunity to work on a show several years later in a new form,” Roth says. “I’m lucky that way, and I’m also lucky because I never get bored with ‘Beauty.’”

Stan Meyer, the scenic designer both for the 1994 Broadway version and for the new production, says that the former staging was, essentially, the 1991 movie made live. The latter is “a departure from that.” He explains: “We did a lot of research that involved eastern-European wood carving and gilded manuscripts. The new version is an illuminated manuscript come to life.”

Audiences will delight in the eye-popping storybook shapes and colors that Meyer and the other original-version designers (Ann Hould-Ward: costumes; Natasha Katz: lighting) have re-imagined. The production’s look, adds Meyer, “is more evocative of whimsy and very, very romantic.”

Matt West, the production’s choreographer (both in 1994 and 2010), is especially excited for the freedom the new design gives the show’s dancing. “Frankly,” he admits, “I always wanted the town buildings in the opening number to move, and now they do. And now the castle set can go completely offstage, so there’s a lot more room for the whole cast to waltz. That’s special.”

The new production of “Beauty” is a treat not only for the creative team but also for the cast. For Liz Shivener, who plays Belle, the job is the realization of a dream. Shivener says she got “really obsessed with [‘Beauty’]” at the age of around 8. “Like a lot of little girls,” she says, “that’s the age when I wanted to be a princess.”

Shivener says that, as a child in Ohio, she used to dance around the house and sing all the songs from the show. She continues: “As great as it is for kids to see the DVD version at home, it’s an even bigger treat for them to experience it in a theater. The whole world of this story takes on a much bigger scale. Kids don’t forget that.”

The songs of Disney’s Beauty and the Beast are so familiar that it is easy to take for granted the people who sing them. For the numbers to reach their spectacular potential takes people who can sing and dance with equal finesse, and the tour has them in abundance. In addition to Shivener, there are Nathaniel Hackmann as Gaston and Justin Glaser as the Beast – all part of a large, multi-gifted cast.

Hackmann, who grew up in a musical family, in Arizona, has sung with top classical companies like the Virginia Opera. He has done Gaston, the conceited village bully in “Beauty,” twice before, and understands why audiences are drawn to him. “It’s a classic case of the character who you love to hate. There’s so much comedy to him, and he’s been drawn so cleverly by the people who wrote the show.”

Glaser, who is from Kentucky, says he not only enjoys performing the songs every night but also is continually inspired by its message. “We live in a world of beautiful celebrities and it seems as if you don’t look exactly like them that you don’t have a chance in love. But that’s just not true. There are many qualities that make people attractive – having brains like Belle, or tenderness like the Beast displays eventually. I’m excited to take this show around the country and remind audiences of these things.”

Astronaut, renaissance man, living legend STORY MUSGRAVE at Proctors

Sat, 28 Apr 2012 17:27:30 +0000

Living Legend and Much-Storied

Saturday, May 12, 7:30 pm

Story Musgrave

-------

In Person in

Proctors GE Theatre

Schenectady, NY– April 27, 2012--Over the course of 30 years, STORY MUSGRAVE, M.D. paved his way into NASA history as one of its most colorful, passionate and dedicated astronauts. As a renaissance man, adventurer, space man and storyteller, Story weaves a thought-provoking presentation that will leave you spellbound and starry-eyed.

About Story Musgrave

Musgrave was born in 1935 on a dairy farm in Stockbridge, MA. He was in the forests alone at 3 and by 5 floated his homebuilt rafts on the rivers. He rode combines at 5, drove trucks and tractors at 10 and when alone in remote fields, repaired them by 13.

Story never finished school, ran off to Korea with the U.S. Marines where he was an aircraft electrician and an engine mechanic.

He started flying with the Marines and over the next 55 years accumulated 18,000 hours in over 160 aircraft. He is a parachutist with over 800 freefalls.

He has 7 graduate degrees in math, computers, chemistry, medicine, physiology, literature and psychology. He has been awarded 20 honorary doctorates. He was a part-time trauma surgeon during his 30-year astronaut career.

Story was an NASA astronaut for over 30 years and flew on six spaceflights. He performed the first shuttle spacewalk on Challenger's first flight, was a pilot on an astronomy mission, conducted two classified DOD missions, was the lead spacewalker on the Hubble Telescope repair mission and on his last flight, he operated an electronic chip manufacturing satellite on Columbia.

Tickets Still Available

Tickets toSTORY MUSGRAVE at Proctors are$20 & $35 and $10 for Students(with ID) and are available at Proctors Box Office (518) 346-6204 or online at proctors.org.

STORY MUSGRAVE at Proctors is made possible with public funds from the

New York State Council on the Arts, celebrating 50 years of building strong, creative communities in New York State's 62 counties.

To learn more about events at Proctors, click here.

GOD of CARNAGE: If it's Capital Rep, it's got to be good! And it is! says Rich

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 14:13:27 +0000

5/1-5/27-God of Carnage

By rich on Apr 27, 2012 with Comments 0

5/1-5/27-God of Carnage

Capital Rep Theatre

Albany, NY

Capitalrep.org

80 minutes

no intermission

I have long said, “If it’s at the Capital Rep, it’s got to be good”, and God of Carnage proves to be no exception. I had the wonderful opportunity to see a special preview, and what a great show this was.

God of Carnage is not a musical, so there is not a benchmark musical like Man of La Mancha to compare it to (we’re all still talking about that one!). It is dialogue. The last play of dialogue was Sisters Rosensweig, which was an autobiography of Playwright Wendy Wasserstein and may have been academic for some.

God of Carnage, on the other hand, is a comedy that will leave you laughing, wondering, then laughing again. Men will agree with the men, women will agree with the women, and the parents will agree with everyone.

First and foremost, I want to say the acting is spectacular.

Read Rich's full take at: http://www.didyouweekend.com/archives/21712

Capital Rep's 'Carnage' a feast of hostility; kids' scuffle puts parents at odds

Thu, 26 Apr 2012 10:44:40 +0000

'Carnage' a feast of hostility

Schoolkids' scuffle puts parents at odds in play

By Michael Eck

Published 01:12 p.m., Wednesday, April 25, 2012

The title of Yasmina Reza's latest hit play is derived from a speech by Alan, a Blackberry-toting Brooklyn lawyer who pathologically refuses to put his device down.

Alan is the father of Benjamin, an 11-year-old boy who knocks out two of his friend Henry's teeth during a playground fracas.

Alan is broadly drawn, an archetype, even a caricature, which is only appropriate given that the show is a modern farce, built less on slamming doors than angry shouts and accusations.

Like Reza's ubiquitous "Art," "Carnage" is a play that provokes strong reactions by focusing a laser vision on the foibles of current- day society.

Brigitte Viellieu-Davis will portray Veronica in the play at Capital Repertory Theatre, where "Carnage" closes the 2011-2012 season in a staging helmed by the troupe's producing artistic director, Maggie Mancinelli-Cahill.

On stage

''GOD OF CARNAGE''

When: In previews beginning Friday. Opens 7:30 p.m. Tuesday.

Where: Capital Repertory Theatre, 111 S. Pearl St., Albany.

Continues: 7:30 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday; 8 p.m. Friday; 3 and 8 p.m. Saturday; 2 p.m. Sunday.

Tickets: $20-$60

Info: 445-7469; http://www.capitalrep.org

Read MICHAEL ECK'S full preview of GOD OF CARNAGE at Capital Rep:

Michael Eck is a freelance writer from Albany and a frequent contributor to The Times Union.

Regional premiere: GOD OF CARNAGE at Capital Rep; Previews: April 27-29

Sun, 22 Apr 2012 16:23:35 +0000

Maggie Mancinelli-Cahill Philip Morris

Producing Artistic Director Chief Administrative Officer

Proudly Presents

REGIONAL PREMIERE!

The GOD OF CARNAGE

Press Opening Tuesday, May 1, 2012, 7:30PM

Runs through Sunday, May 27, 2012

Previews start: Friday, April 27-29 2012

A comedy of manners…without the manners

Albany, NY – April 19, 2012 –Capital Repertory Theatre announces the regional premiere of Yasmina Reza’s award-winning comedy, The God of Carnage.This hit comedy of manners without the manners is slated to begin previews on Friday, April 27 through Sunday, April 29, with an official opening on Tuesday, May 1 and run through Sunday, May 27.

This Tony Award^®-winning comedy, which theNew Yorker magazine called “ninety minutes of sustained mayhem,”offers a close-and-personal glimpse at grown ups behaving badly. The living room saga begins as two highly strung couples – the Raleighs and the Novaks – meet for a discussion about a playground fight between their sons. The couples’ civilized exchange devolves quickly into a hilarious free-for-all that requires all four actors to volley invectives for 90 minutes straight.

Maggie Mancinelli-Cahill, Capital Rep’s Producing Artistic Director takes the helm as director. “This play is an absolute hoot. It really is like being on a roller coaster. The calm parts are only building steam to get you to the top of the next vertical drop. The show is very physically demanding on the cast, who gets a real aerobic work out.” She continues, “Yasmina Reza is masterful at delivering comedy that cuts through the slim thread of civility that holds polite society together. It’s a fun ride to witness four adults exhibiting far worse behavior than their children.”

Reza, whose play Art won awards on both sides of the Atlantic, repeated her success with God of Carnage, which won the Olivier Award for Best New Comedy and three Tony^®Awards, including Best Play.

The cast includes an ensemble of comedic veterans. Returning to Capital Rep as Veronica is Brigitte Vielieu-Davis, who won the hearts of audiences in the theatre’s popular production of The Sweepers, in which she played Dotty, the ditsy, non-stop talking Italian neighbor, who denies losing her son and husband in WWII.

Local favorite, Brenny Rabine returns to the Capital Rep stage, where she was last seen as Jean Louise in To Kill A Mockingbird. No stranger to comedy, Ms. Rabine has assailed numerous comedic roles and Capital Rep audiences will remember how she brought the house down as the quirky Scottish maid in David Mamet’s Boston Marriage.

Last seen as the snobbish Englishman, Nicholas Pym in Capital Rep’s The Sisters Rosensweig, Michael McKenzie sheds that proper demeanor to portray Alan, the cell-phone addicted lawyer in God of Carnage.

Rounding out the ensemble is Ken Krugman, who makes his Capital Rep debut as Michael, the potentially volatile hardware wholesaler. Krugman has a distinguished list of credits from his work on Broadway and in National Tours of Jersey Boys, Assassins and DirtyRotten Scoundrels, to name a few.

The design team includes Jo Winiarski, set design, Deborah Constantine, lighting design, Jane Shaw, sound design and Leah Kaliszewski, costume design.

And as one might expect from adults behaving badly, GOD OF CARNAGE contains adult subject matter and strong language. The show runs approximately 90 minutes without an intermission.

Previews begin Fri., April 27 and continue through Sun., April 29. The show opens Tues. May 1 and runs through Sun. May 27. Performances are Tues – Thurs 7:30PM, Fri and Sat 8PM, Sat matinee 3PM, Sunday matinee at 2PM. Sunday May 12 and May 19, 7PM. Capital Rep is located at 111 N. Pearl St in Albany.

Tickets range from $20-$60 and may be purchased by calling Tickets by Proctors, 518-445-SHOW (7469) or online at www.capitalrep.org. Student rates with ID are $16 for all shows.

GOD OF CARNAGE FACT SHEET AT A GLANCE

Play: God of Carnage

Playwright: Yasmina Reza

Translated by: Christopher Hampton

Producer: Capital Repertory Theatre, 111 N. Pearl St., Albany, NY 12207

Directed by: Maggie Mancinelli-Cahill, Producing Artistic Director

Cast:

Ken Krugman* (as Michael Novak)

Michael McKenzie* (as Alan Raleigh)

Brenny Rabine* (as Annette Raleigh)

Brigitte Viellieu-David* (as Veronica Novak)

*member of Actors Equity Association

Design Team:

Jo Winiask*i, Sets

Deborah Constantine*, Lighting

Leah Kaliszewski, Costumes

Jane Shaw*, Sound

*member United Scenic Artists

Dates:

Previews: Friday, Apr. 27 – 29

Press Opening: Tuesday, May 1, 7:30PM

Runs through: Sunday, May 27

Times:

Tues-Thurs, 7:30PM

Fri-Sat: 8PM

Sat Matinee: 3PM

Sun Matinee: 2PM

Sun Evenings: May 5, May 19, 7:00PM

Running Time: 90 minutes. Mature language and subject matter

TICKETS ON SALE NOW

Call Tickets by Proctors: 518-445-SHOW (7469)

Online: www.capitalrep.org

Tickets for GOD OF CARNAGE at Capital Rep are::

Weekends: $20, $40, $50 &, $60
Weekdays: $20, $30, $40 & $50
Students: $16 (with ID) ALL SHOWS

Special Events for God of Carnage!

Opening Night: Tuesday, May 1, 7:30PM curtain

Pre-Show, 6:30PM- Live Music entertainment with special guest, jazz guitarist, James Rissachier performing in the main lobby

Post Show Reception- Dessert and Champagne Toast - Following the show in the café, join us for an introduction by Capital Repertory Producing Artistic Director, Maggie Mancinelli-Cahill of the cast and company.

Chef's Table Night hosted by Yono's/dp - Tuesday, May 8^th, 6:30PM one of the most popular nights at Capital Repertory Theatre, where downtown Albany restaurants provide a marvelous spread of their cuisine. This night also provides live music entertainment with a pre-show live performance by jazz guitarist, James Rissachierin in the lobby.

Discussion Nights–Post-show Wednesday, May 9th and Wednesday, May 16

Behind-The-Scenes with Maggie- Sunday, May 20th, a pre-show discussion with Producing Artistic Director Maggie Mancinelli-Cahill and special guest. Continental breakfast with juice and coffee is provided.

ABOUT CAPITAL REPERTORY THEATRE

111 NORTH PEARL STREET, ALBANY, NY 12207

Capital Repertory Theatre is the only resident professional theatre company in New York's Capital District. As members of the League of Resident Theatres (LORT), Capital Rep proudly operates within agreements with the Actors Equity Association.

Let your Star shine! Come to School of The Performing Arts at Proctors

Sat, 21 Apr 2012 15:11:05 +0000

Let your star shine!

School of The Performing Arts at Proctors

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Classes for all ages and interests -- from beginners to pre-professionals

in the performing arts.

Schenectady, NY -- March 7, 2012– Even as delighted participants assess their recent success at Proctors Winter Adventures camps, many already are looking ahead to the excitement of warmer months and being part of Summer Academy and Summer Adventures at the School of The Performing Arts at Proctors, the Capital Region’s premiere arts and entertainment complex.

Summer Academyoffers pre-professional training for young motivated artists looking to refine their technique and explore a career in the performing arts. Academy programs are taught by professionals in each discipline, giving students world-class training in their field of interest.

Summer Adventuresprovides opportunities to explore the performing arts in a fun and non-competitive environment.

According to Jessica Johndrew Gelarden, Education Program Manager, “Proctors summer programs build the foundation for students with interest or talents in the arts, help them identify and explore different art forms, and aid them in pursuing career choices in the performing arts.”

What’s more, says Gelarden, “Our programs are taught in non-competitive, accepting environments that foster growth and professionalism in the arts.”

From her perspective in managing the performing arts programs at Proctors, Gelarden is guided by the principals that inform all performing arts programs at Proctors: early training and creative experiences are what inspire and transform student, resonating with them as they develop to their full potential.

By design, Summer programs at Proctors are led by internationally acclaimed artists and professionals; producers, directors, choreographers and actors direct from Broadway who have toured the world with their talents; musicians and dancers who compose, choreograph and perform their work regionally and internationally; and artists with extensive teaching experience who also flourish as professionals in their field.

“You won’t find a better leading cast than the teaching faculty at Proctors,” says Ms. Gelarden. “And, our programs are offered for all ages, interests and skill levels.”

What to Expect

SUMMER ACADEMY

Broadway Camp Jr.

July 9 – 13, 2012 M - F 9am – 4:30pm

The chance to show your talent and hone your skills in musical theatre with industry veterans and current Broadway professionals, who will spend the week sharing their experiences and talent with you!

Proctors Broadway Jr. Camp is for students who take acting, dance and/or voice lesions; participate in school or community stage productions and/or dream of going on to perform in college or professionally.

The week focuses on mentoring student s in voice, dance and acting master classes. Along with classes, each student will have a headshot taken and work on his/her resume. There will be many opportunities to learn from the professionals that share your passion for THEATRE!

- 5 days of instruction in voice, acting and dance by trained professionals

- Master classes with Broadway artists

- Professional headshot taken

- Official Broadway Camp t-shirt

Age Range:12 – 14

Skill Level:Performance experience and prior, acting and dance training required for enrollment into the program.

Prior preparation required:Students must come prepared with 1 monologue and 1 song with piano score.

Tuition: $320.00 before April 1, 2012, $350 after April 1, 2012

Broadway Camp

July 30 - August 10 M – F 9am – 4:30pm

An opportunity to hone skills in musical theatre with professionals who work on Broadway and are veterans in the industry. .

These 2 weeks will focus on mentoring students with master classes in voice, dance, and acting, audition technique and professionalism in the industry. Each student will also walk away with professional headshots. Here is your opportunity to have 10 days of intense quality time with professionals that know what it takes to work on Broadway.

- 10 days of instruction in voice, acting and dance

- Master classes with Broadway artists

- Professional headshot taken

- Official Broadway Camp t-shirt

Age Range:15 – 19 year olds

Skill Level:Performance experience and prior, acting and dance training required for enrollment into the program.

Prior preparation required:Students must come prepared with 1 monologue and 1 song with piano score.

Tuition: $435 before April 1, 2012, $450 after April 1, 2012

Jazz Institute-- with special guest Ray Vega*

Week One:July 16 – July 20, 2012, M – F 9 AM – 3 PM

Week Two:July 23 – July 27, 2012, M - F 9 AM – 3 PM

Performance:July 27, 2012 at 7pm

Students will be swingin’ it at Proctors in Jazz Institute, which is back for an 8th season with a revved up group of teachers (who are also professional musicians) committed to teaching in a collaborative, exciting and hands-on environment. Students will build essential jazz performance skills, including listening, critical thinking, communication and team work, while groovin' to music's ultimate greats.

Program includes special guest artist Ray Vega who will teach master classes, prepping students for an all-out spectacular jazz performance in the GE Theatre. No music needed, as students learn everything by ear!

Vega has established himself as one of the innovators of the international Jazz and Latin music scenes. A multi-talented trumpeter, percussionist, composer, and arranger, he presents Jazz from a refreshingly original and contemporary perspective. His two recordings on the Concord Picante label, his self-titled debut "Ray Vega", and "Boperation", along with his first release on the Palmetto label "Pa'lante" have been well received by critics, audiences and musicians alike. Vega's second Palmetto CD "Squeeze, Squeeze" has also received critical acclaim including Four Stars in Down Beat Magazine.

Ages:All ages

Skill Level:all levels of experience welcomed 

Tuition: Week 1: $200, Week 2: $250, for both weeks: $430

Instructors:Keith Pray and Arthur Falbush

* subject to change

Reel Adventures: Young Filmmakers

New Students: July 23 – August 3 M-F 10am – 2pm

Returning Students: July 30 - August 10 M-F 10am - 2pm

Work alongside an industry professional creating your own short movies this summer! Gain the experience of college-age career professionals and beyond, all before you enter high school! Go from script to screen and everything in between: writing, planning, assembling cast and crew, location scouting, camera, and lights.

Last year's finished piece has shown at venues across the state, and has been submitted to worldwide festivals. Yours can too!

Ages:10 - 14

Skill Level:all levels of experience welcome

New Student Tuition: 2 Weeks: $250

Returning Student Tuition: 2 Weeks $200 (Must have been in last years camp & approved by faculty)

Faculty:Michael Feurstein

Broadway Dance

July 30 – August 3, 2012 M – F 1pm – 5pm

Get moving like a Broadway Star! A week full of master classes focused on technique, style and musicality, ranging from ballet to jazz, will help you infuse your dance with passion, artistry and character!

Combinations will focus on musical theatre style and telling a story through dance. At the end of the week, students will study with actor, director & choreographer Freddy Ramirez (from Broadway’s Grease) and then present their work for parents and friends in a small performance!

Age Range:9 – 13 yrs old

Skill Level:Prior voice and dance training required for enrollment into the program. Performance experience would be helpful but not required.

Tuition: $250.00

Faculty:Marcus Rogers, Bruce Williams and Freddy Ramirez* Subject to Change.

Artistic Advisor:Darlene Myers, trained numerous Broadway dancers

SUMMER ADVENTURE CAMPS

Acting Out!

July 9 – 13 M – F 1 – 4:30pm

Through theatre games and exercises, students will explore, create, and develop as artists! They will build confidence & self-esteem, expand their stage presence and enhance their team building skills in this fun & engaging week-long program.

Ages:7 – 10

Tuition:$115

Skill Level: Beginner

Faculty:Joey Hunziker

Imagine That!

July 16 – 27 M-F 9 – 12:30pm

Every student will create a memorable character in an exotic location!

They will imagine incredible situations while playing wacky characters, create scenes, invent characters, play games and discover how these characters act and react to some crazy circumstances. On the last day of camp a short performance for family and friends will bring everything together.

Ages:9 -13

Skill Level: For those who want to try acting for the first time and students who need a place to let all of that creative energy loose! All experience levels welcome.

Tuition: Tuition: $250 (2 weeks) or Make it a Day*

Improv Schimprov!

July 16 – 20 M – F 1 - 4:30pm

Campers will experiment with humor and spontaneity, push themselves to have fun, laugh at their mistakes and celebrate the joys of performing and making a big fool of yourself. Using improv skills & techniques from MopCo (the area’s premiere improv company) instructor Joey will lead the kids in a week of creativity and hilarity, culminating in a performance of games & scenes!

Ages:9 -13

Skill Level: For those who want to try acting for the first time and students who need a place to let all of that creative energy loose! All experience levels welcome.

Tuition: $125 (1 week) or Make it a Day*

Instructors:Joey Hunziker

Setting The Scene

July 23 – 27 M – F 1 – 4:30pm

Together we will explore our imaginations to create sets where our characters can come to life. Each student will create a diorama showcasing their idea of a dramatic setting for their characters. This camp will explore making sets and backdrops as a collective and individually.

Ages:9 -13

Skill Level: All experience levels welcome.

Tuition: $125 (1 week) or Make it a Day* Instructor: Christina Scott

*MAKE IT A DAY

Give your child a Summer Adventure that lasts the whole day! Combine a morning camp with one of our afternoon camps for a week or 2 weeks of a whole day of fun and you save!

9am - 12:30pm / Supervised Lunch / 1pm - 4:30pm

Tuition: $230 (1 week of a full day of camp)*Make it a Day

Missoula Children’s Theatre

Casting for The Tortoise Versus the Hare

Auditions: Monday, August 6, 10am – 12pmMust be present for full length of audition

Rehearsals: August 6 – 10 Time of day is different for every students role and not all students are required at every rehearsal.

Performances:August 10 at 1pm & August 11at 3pm

It’s the week everyone waits for! Internationally acclaimed touring company, Missoula Children’s Theatre will cast up to 60 children to perform in The Tortouise Versus The Hare. On Monday, they’re cast as characters; by Friday, they’ve developed character! Their week is filled with rehearsals to refine acting skills and a host of fun and creative theatre techniques. Students will be asked to speak and sing in stress free group auditions. Remember to wear comfortable clothing and SMILE! No advance preparation is required.

Ages:5* - 18 *Must have completed kindergarten

Skill Level:all levels of experience welcomed 

Tuition:$115

Location: Mainstage

Act Now!

Enroll now. Space is limited. Questions about these excellent programs or outstanding staff -- or the kind of experience that awaits your own “rising star” -- please contact:

Education @ Proctors Season 2011-12 proctors.org/education

Stay up to date:Education at Proctors is on Facebook!

- School of The Performing Arts at Proctors -

Bryan Fenkart of MEMPHIS: close-up by YNN's Gallagher/Video link

Sat, 21 Apr 2012 00:35:09 +0000

'Memphis' comes to Proctors

By: Vince Gallagher

In 2010, it picked up four Tony Awards. It's the musical theatrical statement "Memphis." It's now on run at Proctor's Theatre in Schenectady. We caught up with Bryan Fenkart, who plays part-time DJ Huey. At this point, he's definitely a road performer.

See Vince Gallagher's interview:

http://capitalregion.ynn.com/content/581299/-memphis--comes-to-proctor-s/

Proctors Gospel Jubilee honors Georgetta Dix in deep-felt, passionate event

Thu, 19 Apr 2012 18:24:19 +0000

Gospel Jubilee to honor Georgetta Dix, offer spiritual music to the community

Thursday, April 19, 2012

By Joanne E. McFadden

Text Size: A | A | A

Photographer: Patrick Dodson

From left, Alicia Binsette of Glenmont, Brittany Masey of Guilderland and Nicole Newman of Troy, rehearse for the Gospel Jubilee at New Bethel Community Church in Schenectady. The Jubilee is Sunday at Proctors.

If old-time gospel music isn’t enough reason to get out to Proctors on Sunday, the chance to honor a Schenectady legend, Georgetta Dix, might be.

The Gospel Jubilee, featuring singers, musicians and dancers from the Capital Region and downstate, was the long-time dream of Proctors marketing manager Sara Hill.

“It is a deep-felt, passionate event that I have been wanting to do for a long time,” said Hill, who grew up in Schenectady listening to gospel music at her church.

In addition to the music, the event serves as a tribute to Dix, the late pastor of the Refreshing Springs Church of God in Christ, which she and her husband, Pastor Eugene W. Dix, founded in Schenectady in 1955.

Georgetta Dix was a staunch community activist, opening a day care center in Schenectady in 1965 and lobbying the state Legislature for day care, working as a social worker in inner city schools, ministering to people in recovery, and serving on several local boards and committees. She died in 2004.

Gospel Jubilee

WHEN: 5 p.m. Sunday

WHERE: GE Theatre at Proctors, 432 State St., Schenectady

HOW MUCH: $20

MORE INFO: 346-6204,www.proctors.org

Combined choirs

Opening the evening will be a combined mass choir, comprising singers from New Bethel Community Church in Schenectady, Sweet Pilgrim Baptist Church in Albany, the Union College Heavenly Voices choir, and Albany Church Of God Of Prophecy, accompanied by the Hamilton Hill Arts Center Steel Drummers. Leading the choir is Rev. Elgin Joseph Taylor Sr., pastor of Sweet Pilgrim and Nobie Teague, wife of Vincent Teague, pastor of New Bethel.

“This jubilee is going to be joyous,” Nobie Teague said. “Just come out and enjoy some good gospel music.”

The music will be a mix of old and contemporary gospel music. Wa’Kena Jackson, Dix’s eldest granddaughter, thinks people will especially enjoy the older songs and remember them from their youth.

Read the full story by Joanne E. McFaden in the GAZETTE:

http://www.dailygazette.com/news/2012/apr/19/0419_gospel/

Gospel Jubilee! April 22. Soul-stirring, spellbinding Gospel favorites

Wed, 18 Apr 2012 11:26:35 +0000

Gospel Jubilee

Glorify the exuberant joy that is gospel!

Sunday, April 22, 5:00 pm

Concert starts at 5 pm - Doors open at 4 pm

---------

Honoring late activist, innovator and Pastor

Dr. Georgetta Dix

Schenectady, NY – April 18, 2012 – Proctors and SISTA Factory proudly present GOSPEL JUBILEE in Proctors GE Theatre on Sunday, April 22. Doors open at 4PM, and the event begins at 5PM.

All Capital Region residents are invited to experience and enjoy a soul-stirring array of spellbinding Gospel favorites from noteworthy local soloists and ensembles. The late afternoon event features a combined mass choir directed by co-host Rev. Elgin Joseph Taylor Sr. of Sweet Pilgrim Missionary Baptist Church in Albany, NY.

This special performance of selected songs of triumph, praise and healing at Proctors is presented in association with SISTA Factory (Soulful, Inspirational Sounds to Admire). Sara Hill, founder of SISTA Factory, is Marketing Manager at Proctors and co-producer of the event. Readers may remember her as an on-air personality with Dave Lucas on WABY Radio in the ‘80s with a Gospel format. For Hill, being included among the honorees for the African American Family Day Tribute to Black Women in the Arts last August was a "spectacular moment," professionally and personally. She anticipates that Gospel Jubilee will rival that moment.

“Although baptized as a Catholic (I attended St. Columbus School & Church, Schenectady), I was enriched by the experience of the African American church and Gospel music,” says Ms. Hill.

“My foster parents instilled in me and my siblings that, in our household, the kids were going to church every Sunday; as my mom would say, “You’re going to somebody’s church!”. That ‘somewhere’ is at the heart of one of my fondest memories: embracing my own sense of spirituality through coming of age in the close-knit church community of Refreshing Spring COGIC (Schenectady) and Wilborn Temple (COGIC) in Albany,” she added.

She’s expressed deep pride in the fact that the evening proudly features a special tribute to late activist, innovator and Pastor, Dr. Georgetta Dix of Refreshing Springs Church of God In Christ in Schenectady, including a video tribute and musical dedication by the Russ Sisters, followed by remarks by NY Congressman Paul Tonko to round out the recognition.

First Lady "Nobie" Teagueof New Bethel Community Church of God in Christ, Schenectadywillco-host GOSPEL JUBILEE, which will highlight the Hamilton Hill Arts Center's Steel Drummers and The Emmanuel Baptist Church Praise Dancers of Bronx, NY.

The evening also features Rev. Elgin Joseph Taylor Sr. – and special guestBishop N.D. Lewis! Lewis is the senior pastor of The Family Of Faith Full Life Center Church, which is one church in two locations, and the Presiding Bishop of the east coast region of theFull Life Fellowship of Churches.As a singer, Lewis has shared the stage with the late Albertina Walker, Vanessa Bell Armstrong, the late Jessie Dixon, Walt Whitman and The Soul Children of Chicago, Stephanie Mills and Donnie McClurkin.

Tickets Still Available

Tickets toGOSPEL JUBILEE on April 22 are $20 and available at Proctors Box Office (518) 346-6204 or online at proctors.org. Significant discounts on tickets for GOSPEL JUBILEE are available for groups of 20 or more. A listing of shows and pricing may be found on proctors.org/group_sales or by contacting Proctors Group Sales at 518-382-3884 ext. 139.

GOSPEL JUBILEE at Proctors is made possible with public funds from the

New York State Council on the Arts, celebrating 50 years of building strong, creative communities in New York State's 62 counties.

GOSPEL JUBILEEat Proctors is sponsored by Cool Insuring Agency and Price Chopper.

Contact

For more information onGOSPEL JUBILEE on Sunday, April 22 in the GE Theatre at Proctors, contactMs. Sara Hill, shill@proctors.org; 518.383.3884, x152. (www.sistafactory.com)

To learn more about events at Proctors, click here.

MEMPHIS: Former standby relishing time as lead in musical

Wed, 18 Apr 2012 11:07:20 +0000

Former standby relishing time as lead in musical ‘Memphis’

Saturday, April 14, 2012

By Bill Buell (Contact)
Gazette Reporter

SCHENECTADY — For theater fans who don’t quite know the difference between an understudy and a standby, Bryan Fenkart has the answer.

“Standbys aren’t a part of the ensemble,” said Fenkart, who also knows something about playing the lead, having earned that distinction with his portrayal of Huey Calhoun in the national touring production of “Memphis,” opening Tuesday for a six-day run at Proctors.

“I was an understudy for the lead, but in that case you still play one of the minor parts. If you’re the standby, you’re not in the ensemble because you’re just there ready to go on whenever the lead is out.”

‘Memphis’

WHERE: Proctors, 432 State St., Schenectady

WHEN: 8 p.m. Tuesday and Wednesday, 2 and 8 p.m. Thursday, 8 p.m. Friday, 2 and 8 p.m. Saturday, and 2 p.m. Sunday

HOW MUCH: $70-$20

MORE INFO: 346-6204 or www.proctors.org

In Fenkart’s case, that turned out to be quite a bit. Between October of 2009, when “Memphis” opened at the Shubert Theatre on Broadway, until October of 2011, he had numerous opportunities to sub for the Tony-nominated Chad Kimball in the lead role.

Read Bill Buell's story on MEMPHIS star Bryan Fenkart at

http://www.dailygazette.com/news/2012/apr/14/0414_memphis/

Memphis! SPECTACULAR MEMPHIS, says DiMaggio

Wed, 18 Apr 2012 11:01:39 +0000

Memphis! Spectacular Memphis

By rich on Apr 18, 2012 with Comments 0

Memphis! Spectacular Memphis

4/17-4/22-At Proctors

Schenectady, NY

proctors.org

***** (five stars)

Reviewed by Richard DiMaggio

You had no idea what to expect. You got more than you bargained for. Race and Romance back in “the day” in Memphis was always a potent combination, and Memphis brought both together in a theatrical performance that left many people leaving Proctors overheard saying, “One of the best plays I’ve ever seen.” Read all about it:

http://www.didyouweekend.com/archives/21267

Indeed, it was.

Memphis is a fairly new play. It opened on Broadway in 2009, and won the Tony for Best Musical one year later. It is based on a DJ by the name of Dewey Phillips, who was one of the first white DJs to play black music back in the 1950′s.

“Memphis” ...is big, bold, bright Broadway, says Times Union.

Wed, 18 Apr 2012 05:04:44 +0000

Memphis @ Proctors, 4/17/12

April 18, 2012 at 12:35 am by Michael Eck

by Michael Eck
SCHENECTADY – David Bryan is from New Jersey. Considering he came to fame as the leonine keyboardist with 80‘s hitmakers Bon Jovi, he’d better be. Joe DePietro hails from the Garden State as well, and perhaps that explains why the music in “Memphis” has so little to do with the actual sound of the River City in the 1950s.

DiPietro wrote the book for the show, now onstage at Proctors, and Bryan wrote the score, with both contributing lyrics.
The show’s lack of real R&B roots didn’t stop it from winning three 2010 Tony Awards for Best Musical, Best Original Score and Best Book of a Musical, so they must have done something right. And the production at Proctors does lots right, too, especially in the casting of Bryan Fenkart, Felicia Boswell and Quentin Earl Darrington.

MEMPHIS

Performance reviewed: 8 p.m. Tuesday.
Where: Proctors, 432 State Street, Schenectady
Running time: 150 minutes; one intermission
Continues: 8 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday; 2 p.m. Thursday, Saturday and Sunday.
Tickets: $20-$70
Info: 346-6204; http://www/proctors.org

Michael Eck is a freelance writer from Albany and a frequent contributor to the Times Union.

Read Michael Eck's full opening night review:

http://blog.timesunion.com/localarts/memphis-proctors-41712/22780/

YMCA/Proctors offer childcare, create PARENTS NIGHT OUT!

Sat, 14 Apr 2012 16:40:05 +0000

YMCA/Proctors offer childcare services

for select events starting withMEMPHIS

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YMCA program puts kids in safe hands

YMCA PARENTS NIGHT OUT! - NOW AVAILABLE FOR MEMPHIS PERFORMANCES ON APRIL 20-22

at Proctors Box Office: (518)346-6204 • proctors.org 432 State Street • Schenectady, NY 12305.

Schenectady, NY – April 15, 2012 – Parents and guardians who love theatre – but cannot attend events as often as they might like because of babysitting issues – can avail themselves of a new program that offers a convenient, affordable, safe solution: YMCA Parents Time Out is aninnovative program made possible by Proctors and the Schenectady branch of the Capital District YMCA.

“This is something that our patrons have asked for,” said Proctors CEO Philip Morris. “Because of the innate sensitivities and security issues, we have moved with deliberation before adopting a program. Our positive relationship with the Schenectady YMCA made the launch of this program feasible. For Proctors, the program is another example of the community spirit and teamwork that are the hallmarks of a new, revitalized and forward-thinking Downtown Schenectady.”

Kevin Kuon, Director of Youth & Teen programs at the Schenectady Y concurs with Morris: “Keeping kids actively engaged in a safe environment is key to our mission at the Y, as is strengthening our community through partnerships with others. We’re delighted to partner with Proctors.”

Through YMCA Parents Time Out, parents can sign up for child care at the new Downtown Y while they attend a performance at Proctors State Street complex. When purchasing tickets, patrons have the option, for an additional fee per child, to complete appropriate paperwork and sign up for the program. Then before the show, participants in the YMCA Parents Time Out program may drop off children registered in the program at the Y located just cross the street from Proctors.

YMCA Parents Time Outparticipants enjoy peace of mind knowing their children are busy playing games, watching movies, and having a ball.

YMCA care providers are NYS certified professionals with age appropriate training in CPR and First Aid.  

Now the whole family gets to enjoy nights out at Proctors.

• Registration form must be completedin full and sent to the YMCA 48 hours in advance of the performance date. Fill out the online form, and it will automatically be sent to the YMCA. Or, send the pdf form via email to kkuon@cdymca.org. Participants are required sign their form when dropping off a child.

• The YMCA Parents Time Outprogram will run for 4hrs starting one hour prior to show time. Example: For an 8pm show, the program will run from 7-11pm.

• The cost for this program is $15 per child with a sibling discount of 15%.

For more information contactKevin at 518.881.0117 or kkuon@cdymca.org.

TIMES UNION: Broadway hit 'Memphis' comes to Proctors

Thu, 12 Apr 2012 10:25:11 +0000

Broadway hit 'Memphis' comes to Proctors

'Memphis' the musical born from true story of race relations in the South

By Everett Evans

Updated 04:46 p.m., Wednesday, April 11, 2012

Writing a major Broadway hit has a way of reshuffling your credentials.

For many years, playwright Joe DiPietro was best known for creating the book and the lyrics of the long-running off-Broadway revue, "I Love You, You're Perfect, Now Change."

Now, DiPietro is best known as the librettist and co-lyricist of "Memphis," which won the 2010 Tony as best musical and makes its Capital Region premiere with the national tour's opening Tuesday at Proctors.

"Memphis" was conceived as a fictionalized biography of Dewey Phillips, a disc jockey who was one of the first to introduce black R&B to white audiences in the segregated South of the 1950s.

DiPietro warmed to the subject when veteran producer George W. George asked him to write the show's book in 2000. But early in the decade-long development — during which time George died and other producers took up the show — DiPietro decided to go with a fictional scenario...

His crucial decision was to tell two intertwined love stories — not just protagonist Huey Calhoun's love for what was then called "race music," but his love for Felicia, a vibrant black singer whose career he promotes.

At a glance

"Memphis"

When: Opens 8 p.m. Tuesday; continues 8 p.m. Wednesday-Saturday; 2 p.m. Thursday, Saturday, Sunday

Where: Proctors, 432 State St., Schenectady

Tickets: $20, $35, $45, $50, $60, $70

Info: 518-346-6204; http://www.proctors.org

ReadEverett Evans full report:

http://www.timesunion.com/entertainment/article/Broadway-hit-Memphis-comes-to-Proctors-3475074.php#ixzz1rovDCIgN