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Playhouse on the Square

Memphis' only professional resident theatre company.

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Contact Info

Playhouse on the Square

66 South Cooper
Memphis, TN 38104

Phone: 901-726-4656 | Email | Official Website

Current Events

01/20/12-
02/12/12

Next to Normal
Playhouse on the Square

Upcoming Events

03/02/12- 03/25/12	Spring Awakening The Circuit Playhouse Spring Awakening Presented by Playhouse on the Square at The Circuit Playhouse March 2-March 25, 2012 The runaway hit, musical adaptation of the 1891 play by Frank Wedekind is the story of teens coming of age in a socially and sexually repressive village in 19th century Germany. Spring Awakening is a powerful celebration of youth and rebellion infused with rock music in what Entertainment Weekly proclaimed, “The most gorgeous Broadway score this decade.” Winner of eight Tony Awards in 2007.
03/16/12- 04/01/12	God of Carnage Playhouse on the Square God of Carnage Presented by Playhouse on the Square at Playhouse on the Square March 16-April 1, 2012 A playground scuffle between two boys brings their parents together for a friendly meeting to deal with the incident. The evening begins with all on their best behavior but tensions mount, the liquor flows, and fuses blow as the couples pick apart each other?s marriages, and their own, with enough name-calling and chaos to suggest they have more in common with their children than they might suspect. 2009 Tony Award Winner for Best Play.
04/20/12- 05/13/12	Present Laughter The Circuit Playhouse Present Laughter Presented by Playhouse on the Square at The Circuit Playhouse April 20-May 13, 2012 An aging, popular, and pampered actor has to placate both his long-suffering secretary and his estranged wife, cope with a crazed young playwright, deal with women who want to seduce him, overcome his fear of middle-age and, by implication, his impending mid-life crisis all while he prepares to leave for a touring commitment overseas in this comedy The New York Times calls, “sharp, withering, and funny.”
05/11/12- 06/03/12	A Closer Walk With Patsy Cline Playhouse on the Square A Closer Walk With Patsy Cline Presented by Playhouse on the Square at Playhouse on the Square May 11-June 3, 2012 A tribute to the life and music of the country legend, from her humble start in the Shenandoah Valley, to the Grand Ole Opry, to the tragic loss of a superstar at a young age. This lovingly crafted homage features performances of classic hits including, "Walkin After Midnight," "Crazy," "I Fall to Pieces," and many more.
06/08/12- 07/08/12	Tuna Does Vegas The Circuit Playhouse Tuna Does Vegas Presented by Playhouse on the Square at The Circuit Playhouse June 8-July 8, 2012 When a conservative radio host announces on the air that he and his wife will renew their vows in Sin City, all of the residents of Tuna, Texas’s third smallest town, come along for the ride. Favorite characters from past ‘Tuna’ productions return, and new ones are introduced by a cast of two actors. “What happens in Vegas stays in Vegas, but what happens when Tuna hits the slots may lodge delightfully in your head for a lifetime.”- L.A. Times
06/29/12- 07/22/12	Xanadu Playhouse on the Square Xanadu Presented by Playhouse on the Square at Playhouse on the Square June 29-July 22, 2012 Based on the cult film, a Greek muse descends from the heavens to 1980s Venice Beach, California to inspire a struggling artist, Sonny, to create the greatest entertainment achievement- the first Roller Disco! The muse commits the ultimate faux pas, falling in love with the mortal, and her jealous sisters plot to bring them down. An electrifying musical tale about following your dreams with chart-topping tunes that The New York Times hailed as, "outlandishly enjoyable."
07/06/12- 07/29/12	Race TheatreWorks Race Presented by Playhouse on the Square at TheatreWorks July 6-July 29, 2012 In David Mamet’s searing drama about America’s most controversial topic, two lawyers defend a wealthy white executive charged with raping a black woman. When a new legal assistant gets involved in the case, the opinions that boil beneath explode to the surface in this high-voltage verbal joust that is “…an absorbing glimpse into a world full of misunderstandings.” – USA Today

Current &
Upcoming Events

Current Events

01/20/12-
02/12/12

Next to Normal
Playhouse on the Square

Upcoming Events

03/02/12- 03/25/12	Spring Awakening The Circuit Playhouse Spring Awakening Presented by Playhouse on the Square at The Circuit Playhouse March 2-March 25, 2012 The runaway hit, musical adaptation of the 1891 play by Frank Wedekind is the story of teens coming of age in a socially and sexually repressive village in 19th century Germany. Spring Awakening is a powerful celebration of youth and rebellion infused with rock music in what Entertainment Weekly proclaimed, “The most gorgeous Broadway score this decade.” Winner of eight Tony Awards in 2007.
03/16/12- 04/01/12	God of Carnage Playhouse on the Square God of Carnage Presented by Playhouse on the Square at Playhouse on the Square March 16-April 1, 2012 A playground scuffle between two boys brings their parents together for a friendly meeting to deal with the incident. The evening begins with all on their best behavior but tensions mount, the liquor flows, and fuses blow as the couples pick apart each other?s marriages, and their own, with enough name-calling and chaos to suggest they have more in common with their children than they might suspect. 2009 Tony Award Winner for Best Play.
04/20/12- 05/13/12	Present Laughter The Circuit Playhouse Present Laughter Presented by Playhouse on the Square at The Circuit Playhouse April 20-May 13, 2012 An aging, popular, and pampered actor has to placate both his long-suffering secretary and his estranged wife, cope with a crazed young playwright, deal with women who want to seduce him, overcome his fear of middle-age and, by implication, his impending mid-life crisis all while he prepares to leave for a touring commitment overseas in this comedy The New York Times calls, “sharp, withering, and funny.”
05/11/12- 06/03/12	A Closer Walk With Patsy Cline Playhouse on the Square A Closer Walk With Patsy Cline Presented by Playhouse on the Square at Playhouse on the Square May 11-June 3, 2012 A tribute to the life and music of the country legend, from her humble start in the Shenandoah Valley, to the Grand Ole Opry, to the tragic loss of a superstar at a young age. This lovingly crafted homage features performances of classic hits including, "Walkin After Midnight," "Crazy," "I Fall to Pieces," and many more.
06/08/12- 07/08/12	Tuna Does Vegas The Circuit Playhouse Tuna Does Vegas Presented by Playhouse on the Square at The Circuit Playhouse June 8-July 8, 2012 When a conservative radio host announces on the air that he and his wife will renew their vows in Sin City, all of the residents of Tuna, Texas’s third smallest town, come along for the ride. Favorite characters from past ‘Tuna’ productions return, and new ones are introduced by a cast of two actors. “What happens in Vegas stays in Vegas, but what happens when Tuna hits the slots may lodge delightfully in your head for a lifetime.”- L.A. Times
06/29/12- 07/22/12	Xanadu Playhouse on the Square Xanadu Presented by Playhouse on the Square at Playhouse on the Square June 29-July 22, 2012 Based on the cult film, a Greek muse descends from the heavens to 1980s Venice Beach, California to inspire a struggling artist, Sonny, to create the greatest entertainment achievement- the first Roller Disco! The muse commits the ultimate faux pas, falling in love with the mortal, and her jealous sisters plot to bring them down. An electrifying musical tale about following your dreams with chart-topping tunes that The New York Times hailed as, "outlandishly enjoyable."
07/06/12- 07/29/12	Race TheatreWorks Race Presented by Playhouse on the Square at TheatreWorks July 6-July 29, 2012 In David Mamet’s searing drama about America’s most controversial topic, two lawyers defend a wealthy white executive charged with raping a black woman. When a new legal assistant gets involved in the case, the opinions that boil beneath explode to the surface in this high-voltage verbal joust that is “…an absorbing glimpse into a world full of misunderstandings.” – USA Today

Past
Events

Past Events

01/13/12- 02/05/12	In the Next Room, or the Vibrator Play The Circuit Playhouse
01/06/12- 01/29/12	The Club TheatreWorks
12/03/11- 12/18/11	Aesop's Fable-ous Christmas Tree The Circuit Playhouse
11/25/11- 12/23/11	Mrs. Bob Cratchit's Wild Christmas Binge The Circuit Playhouse
11/18/11- 12/23/11	Annie Playhouse on the Square
10/07/11- 10/30/11	Avenue Q The Circuit Playhouse
09/23/11- 10/16/11	Gem of the Ocean Playhouse on the Square
09/08/11- 09/10/11	Every Good Boy Deserves Favour Playhouse on the Square
08/26/11- 09/18/11	Disney's Camp Rock: The Musical The Circuit Playhouse
08/12/11- 09/04/11	How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying Playhouse on the Square
08/12/11- 09/04/11	How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying Playhouse on the Square
07/15/11- 07/31/11	Eleemosynary TheatreWorks
07/01/11- 07/24/11	Footloose Playhouse on the Square
05/06/11- 05/29/11	Ragtime Playhouse on the Square
04/30/11	34th Annual Original Art Auction Playhouse on the Square
03/11/11- 04/03/11	August: Osage County Playhouse on the Square
01/21/11- 02/13/11	A Midsummer Night's Dream opera a capella Playhouse on the Square
01/07/11- 01/30/11	Speech and Debate TheatreWorks
11/19/10- 12/23/10	Peter Pan Playhouse on the Square
10/14/10- 10/17/10	Teens iN Theatre present Tales of Poe The Evergreen Theater
10/01/10- 10/17/10	Arsenic and Old Lace Playhouse on the Square
09/27/10- 11/07/10	New Mexico Salon Playhouse on the Square
09/27/10- 11/07/10	New Mexico Salon Playhouse on the Square
08/13/10- 09/05/10	The Drowsy Chaperone Playhouse on the Square
06/25/10- 07/25/10	Hairspray Playhouse on the Square
05/14/10- 06/06/10	Oliver! Playhouse on the Square
03/19/10- 04/03/10	Frost/Nixon Playhouse on the Square
01/29/10	Playhouse on the Square Gala Grand Opening Playhouse on the Square
01/29/10- 02/21/10	Pippin Playhouse on the Square
01/10/10	Community Celebration of the NEW Playhouse on the Square Playhouse on the Square
11/20/09- 12/22/09	The Santaland Diaries Playhouse on the Square
11/06/09- 12/22/09	Narnia Playhouse on the Square
10/05/09- 10/07/09	Teens iN Theatre present PHAEDRA The Circuit Playhouse
09/18/09- 10/18/09	The Musical Comedy Murders of 1940 Playhouse on the Square
08/07/09- 09/06/09	The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee Playhouse on the Square
06/26/09- 07/26/09	Rent Playhouse on the Square
05/08/09- 06/07/09	Into the Woods Playhouse on the Square
03/23/09- 03/25/09	For Love of Broadway The Circuit Playhouse
03/20/09- 04/19/09	Romeo and Juliet Playhouse on the Square
01/30/09- 03/01/09	The Light in the Piazza Playhouse on the Square
11/28/08- 01/11/09	A Tuna Christmas Playhouse on the Square
11/14/08- 01/11/09	Seussical Playhouse on the Square
11/03/08- 11/05/08	JUVIE by Jerome McDonough The Circuit Playhouse
10/03/08- 10/26/08	The Glass Menagerie Playhouse on the Square
08/23/08	Teens in Theatre - Fall Auditions The Varnell Education Building
08/15/08- 09/14/08	Buddy: The Buddy Holly Story Playhouse on the Square
06/20/08- 07/20/08	The Producers Playhouse on the Square
05/26/08- 08/01/08	Summer Youth Theatre Conservatory Playhouse on the Square
05/02/08- 06/01/08	Purlie Playhouse on the Square
04/26/08	31st Annual Original Art Auction Playhouse on the Square
03/30/08- 04/08/08	Revolution: A Musical Impression Playhouse on the Square
03/14/08- 04/13/08	Scapin Playhouse on the Square
01/25/08- 02/24/08	Pirates of Penzance Playhouse on the Square
11/23/07- 01/06/08	A Tuna Christmas Playhouse on the Square

Media
Reviews
- Media Reviews
  
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Member
Reviews
- Member Reviews
  - Event Name: In the Next Room, or the Vibrator Play
    "Review by Glenda Mace - ArtsMemphis Rants & Raver"
    Comment posted by: Glenda Mace - ArtsMemphis Rants & Raver from Memphis, TN, USA, Jan 20, 2012
    
    The term Hysteria is rarely used today except in a vague way to describe a person who is exhibiting uncontrollable fear, sadness, or other emotional symptoms. However, in the 1880s the term... Expand
    
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    The term Hysteria is rarely used today except in a vague way to describe a person who is exhibiting uncontrollable fear, sadness, or other emotional symptoms. However, in the 1880s the term Hysteria was most often linked with Female and most often used to describe a type of sexual dysfunction thought to bring on madness in women. This madness was sometimes “treated” by mechanically inducing orgasms, without any overtly sexual activity using an electrical devise for stimulation. Sarah Ruhl’s play, In The Next Room or the vibrator play, tells the story of a physician, Dr. Givins, (Joshua Quinn) a modern man of science, whose clinic treats such symptoms. Dr. Givings is assisted by his nurse, Annie, played Liz Sharpe. It has long since been proven that in most cases, physical and emotional repression overtly imposed, no matter what the circumstances, can produce dire reaction and mental and physical anguish. This is a play about repression. It is handled with a light and healing touch and a great deal of wit and humor but it is about repression and bigotry and those symptoms unfortunately cannot be cured with a vibrator. Ms. Ruhl’s play investigates the longing for love and connection. Looking at the circumstances and mores within which women lived, the feeling is evoked that corsets were not the only reason that women of the Victorian Age could not take a deep breath. Placed on a beautiful period set, the play introduces us to Catherine Givings, the Doctors wife(Andrea Rouch). She is a new mother who is unable to breast feed her baby girl and very concerned about the child’s well being. The first patient we see in the clinic is Sabrina Daldry(Lyric Peters Malkin). Symptomatically hysterical indeed, she is brought there by her husband played by Kyle Blair). It is clear that he is concerned about her but mostly to the extent that her behavior makes his life uncomfortable. The Daldry’s introduce their maid, Elizabeth(Claire Kolheim), as a possible wet nurse for the Givings. The introduction of the black Elizabeth gives rise to prejudice, jealousy and adds another social strata to the proceedings. There is also a male patient, Leo Irving,(Nick Mason) who represents the artist with a more continental view of sexuality and the world. In The Next Room is skillfully and sensitively directed by Dave Landis and Irene Crist. And special applause goes to the designers of set, lights, sound and the period costumes. Sarah Ruhl’s play was nominated for three Tonys at the 2010 awards, including best play. It is a must see. In The Next Room or the vibrator play opened January 13, at Circuit Playhouse and plays through February 5. Collapse
    
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  - Event Name: The Club
    "Review by Glenda Mace - ArtsMemphis Rants & Raver"
    Comment posted by: Glenda Mace - ArtsMemphis Rants & Raver from Memphis, TN, Jan 10, 2012
    
    Eve Merriam’s The Club, was first produced at Circle in the Square Downtown in New York City in Oct. 1976. The production directed by Tommy Tune won an unprecedented 10 OBIE awards that season. A... Expand
    
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    Eve Merriam’s The Club, was first produced at Circle in the Square Downtown in New York City in Oct. 1976. The production directed by Tommy Tune won an unprecedented 10 OBIE awards that season. A POTS at the Works production of The Club opened at TheatreWorks Friday, January 6. The play is set in an upper-class white men’s club just as the world is entering the 20th century, a male stronghold where privilege still claimed its right to insensitivity and chauvinism. Billed as A Musical Diversion, certainly with very little dialogue, the men express their many opinions of women in songs of their time. The POTS at the Works production waltzes these epithets along with lightness and humor. Yes, in the face of sexism and bigotry, the laughs are still there. “Both biting social satire and audience-pleasing entertainment, The Club gets everyone thinking about gender roles and stereotypes.” Remarkably, these bigger than life tuxedoed men, drinking a cocktail and smoking a cigar, are played by women. The production is directed by Ann Marie Hall. Ms. Hall has skillfully staged The Club to allow each character to develop rather than exist as a mere caricature. Multitalented Mimi Goode is music director and pianist for the production. Listed in the program by only their first initial and last name to allow some audience members to hold the illusion, S. Stover, M. Bucignani, M. Goode, S. Hoch, R. Johnson, and M. L. O’Neal bring the men of The Club to full stature. Mary Buchignani and Sally Stover give particularly nuanced performances. Dancing accolades belong to Henry and Johnny. Played by M. L. O’Neal and S. McFadin the tap numbers are lively and fun. The Club performs at TheatreWorks Thursdays – Sundays through January 29. Collapse
    
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  - Event Name: Aesop's Fable-ous Christmas Tree
    "Review by Glenda Mace - ArtsMemphis Rants & Raver"
    Comment posted by: Glenda Mace - ArtsMemphis Rants & Raver from Memphis, TN, Dec 05, 2011
    
    Circuit Playhouse opened its doors Saturday to the premiere of a fabulous children’s Christmas story that is bound to be repeated in years to come. Michael Gravois’s new work, Aesop’s Fable-ous... Expand
    
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    Circuit Playhouse opened its doors Saturday to the premiere of a fabulous children’s Christmas story that is bound to be repeated in years to come. Michael Gravois’s new work, Aesop’s Fable-ous Christmas Tree, combines an energetic rhythmic rap style for the original songs, with a story that informs through humor and surprise. There are puppets and an assortment of clever and artistically crafted ornaments for the Fable-ous tree. It is just right for younger children. Michael Gravois, who also directed the piece, has assembled a talented group of players. Some are from previous Playhouse/Circuit associations and many graduates from the BFA program at the University of Memphis. The cast deserves much of the credit for the success of this delightful show. They bring freshness, pace and humor to the fast changing fables. There are some gifted singing voices as well, directed by Rene Kemper. The closing carol sung in harmonic a cappella is lovely. There was an opening reception after the Saturday show. I was talking with a six year old who had just seen the performance. I asked, “what was your favorite part of the show?” She said she didn’t have a favorite. They were all her favorites because they were all so good. Now, that is my recommendation. Go see the show and take a child. Both of you will enjoy this joyous production. Aesop’s Fable-ous Christmas Tree plays Saturday and Sunday matinees only, through December18. Collapse
    
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  - Event Name: Mrs. Bob Cratchit's Wild Christmas Binge
    "Review by Glenda Mace - ArtsMemphis Rants & Raver"
    Comment posted by: Glenda Mace - Artsmemphis Rants & Raver from Memphis, TN, Nov 29, 2011
    
    Friday night, Mrs. Bob Cratchit’s Wild Christmas Binge, written by Christopher Durang, opened at Circuit Playhouse. Directed by CopelandWoodruff, a wild and funny outing it is. Based on A Christmas... Expand
    
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    Friday night, Mrs. Bob Cratchit’s Wild Christmas Binge, written by Christopher Durang, opened at Circuit Playhouse. Directed by CopelandWoodruff, a wild and funny outing it is. Based on A Christmas Carol that most of us know so well, Christopher Durang has turned it on its ear and upside down. Perhaps it is best described as Ebeneezer Scrooge’s nightmare of the original Charles Dickens’ nightmare. A musical nightmare invented as only Christopher Durang could dream it. No one is conforming to our expectations. The expected visitations are skewed. Due to a very ditzy, ineffectual spirit, played spiritedly and effectively by Calire D. Kolheim, Scrooge keeps winding up in the wrong place at the wrong time. Visited by the ghost of Christmas past they wind up in Bob Cratchit’s house a bit earlier than planned to find Mrs. Cratchit in a mood we have never experienced in the well known version. Mrs. Cratchit, played by Alice Berry with sparkling ill humor, makes it plain from the start that she is living in a time and place she is ready to leave. Her disdain for the Victorian sentimentality and overplayed pathos makes her immediately likeable to Scrooge. Not to give away the plot, as if I could in this wacky story, but Scrooge, played by Jim Palmer, has an unexpected change of heart. Palmer underplays the role to perfection. A script that gives every opportunity to chew the scenery a bit, Palmer has kept Scrooge emotionally honest in each scene. It is all fun to watch. In this wild ride written in 2002, Durang pointedly references: Kenneth Lay and The Enron Scandal which happened in 2001 and Harry and Leona (The Queen of Mean) Helmsley which may have been even a bit dated in 2002. Then we venture into the more universally known (due to continued production and reruns) Oliver Twist, It’s a Wonderful Life, and Touched by an Angel. I may have failed to mention a couple. Others in the cast are Tripp Hurst as Bob Cratchit, JoLynne Palmer as Little Nell, Phillip Hugen as Tiny Tim and the ensemble, most of whom play several roles, John Dylan Atkins, Jarrad Baker, Jon Castro, Luca Conti, David Geoffrey Hammons, Chandler Keen, Ryan Patterson, David Rhea, Cheryl Wolder, and Tamara Wright. All take the challenge of keeping the audience entertained and on track in this riotous ride. Mrs. Cratchit’s Wild Christmas Binge plays at Circuit Playhouse most evenings Thursday- Sunday through December 23. It is sharing the stage with Aesop’s Fables opening December 3, so check the schedule to confirm play dates. Collapse
    
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  - Event Name: Avenue Q
    "Review by Glenda Mace - ArtsMemphis Rants & Raver"
    Comment posted by: Glenda Mace from Memphis, TN, Oct 11, 2011
    
    Avenue Q, music and lyrics by Robert Lopez and Jeff Marx, book by Jeff Whitty, opened at Circuit Playhouse Friday night. It is billed as Sesame Street for adults and this comedy lives up to its... Expand
    
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    Avenue Q, music and lyrics by Robert Lopez and Jeff Marx, book by Jeff Whitty, opened at Circuit Playhouse Friday night. It is billed as Sesame Street for adults and this comedy lives up to its billing. Don’t be fooled by the charming puppets and the disarming actors who propel them. This is not a kiddy show. Early in the first act I fell under the spell of Avenue Q. It is funny, edgy and charming. It is the story of the post college, under-employed stratum of creative dreamers who have come to live on one of the lesser known alphabet streets in lower Manhattan. Some are searching for their purpose in life and some just searching for a job. From the opening number, music expresses much of what is going on with the characters. Princeton, a recent college graduate, looking for a job and an apartment arrives on the scene with the musical question What Do You Do with a B.A. in English? You are introduced to most of his neighbors with the tune, It Sucks to Be Me – Brian, an aspiring comedian who has just lost his day job- Kate Monster, a kindergarten teaching assistant - Rod a possible gay, anal-retentive Republican banker - Nicky, his slacker roommate -Christmas Eve, Brian's Asian fiancée and a therapist with no clients - Gary Coleman, yes, THE Gary Coleman, is building superintendent and the neighbors argue over whose life sucks the most. You are introduced to Trekie Monster with the lyrical, The Internet Is for Porn. Lucy, the Slut sings Special and when you throw in the Bad Idea Bears you have the cast. And be advised: The graphic antics of the puppets as Gary Coleman, and company sing You Can Be Loud as the Hell You Want (When You're Making Love) are quite funny and quite explicit. And on the sentimental side, Christmas Eve and Kate sing The More You Ruv Someone (The More You Want to Kill Them). Jordan Nichols has done an excellent job directing the show and choreographing the movement of the puppets. Music Director, Renee Kemper and the orchestra are outstanding. And credit to the scenic designer, Jimmie Humphries, the orchestra is playing from an open window on an upper floor of the tenement. A stellar cast who has mastered their puppet craft and the art of telling their story: Brian (Kyle Blair), Bad Idea Bear (Sarah Koch), Kate Monster/Lucy the Slut (Kelsey Hopkins), Gary Coleman (Claire D. Kolheim), Princeton/Rod (Ben Laxton), Nicky/Trekkie Monster (Nick Mason), Bad Idea Bear (Patrick Mullen, Jr.), Christmas Eve (Maya Naff), Mrs.T (Andrea Rouch). Collapse
    
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  - Event Name: How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying
    "How to suceed in buisness without really trying"
    Comment posted by: Pal, H from memphis, TN, Sep 03, 2011
    
    Not good at all. Not appropriate for the kids even though the staff told me it would be appropriate for the kids when I purchased the tickets. I was embarrassed with my wife and 2 young boys there and... Expand
    
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    Not good at all. Not appropriate for the kids even though the staff told me it would be appropriate for the kids when I purchased the tickets. I was embarrassed with my wife and 2 young boys there and had to walk out of there in the intermission. My wife went and talked to the manager. Staff seemed little concern and we never heard from them even when they took our information. Very unsatisfied with overall service and little concern from the management. One unhappy customer. Collapse
    
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  - Event Name: Disney's Camp Rock: The Musical
    "Review by Glenda Mace - ArtsMemphis Rants & Raver"
    Comment posted by: Glenda Mace - ArtsMemphis Rants & Raver from Memphis, TN, Aug 30, 2011
    
    Disney’s Camp Rock: The Musical opened Friday at Circuit Playhouse. It is the regional premiere for this musical based on the Disney Channel’s original movies, Camp Rock and Camp Rock II, The... Expand
    
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    Disney’s Camp Rock: The Musical opened Friday at Circuit Playhouse. It is the regional premiere for this musical based on the Disney Channel’s original movies, Camp Rock and Camp Rock II, The Final Jam. The Circuit production features a high energy cast of twenty-four young Memphis actors who exhibit a lot of talent as dancers and performers. It is directed by Amy Hanford, a veteran Memphis director and choreographer. This production is choreographed by Chris Hanford, Amy’s son. Disney’s Camp Rock is a show written for the High School Musical fans. The stage version of the Camp Rock movies has a light plot, just enough story to hang the choreography on but the kids take hold and make it work. Featured in the cast are the leads; Teirinii Jackson, who plays Mitchie, the aspiring singer with a terrific voice and Chris Hanford, who plays Shane, the rock star who has come to Camp Rock as an instructor for the summer. Noelia Warnette-Jones and Eric Henderson are the adult directors of the rival camps. Rounding out the camp cast are: Halle Brown, Ian Godwin, Trey Jacobs, Madeline Fisher, Curtis Scott, Patsy Detroit, Chandler Keen, Karl Robinson, Jr., Becky Githinji, Terrian Jacquel Bass, Jesse Jones, Jari Head and the incredible ensemble Katie Rose Carnes, Carly Nahon, Kahlil Bostick, Marcus Byers, Eboni Cain, Kaylyn Raquel Myers, Kayle Sierra Singletary and Annie L. Strong. Collapse
    
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  - Event Name: How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying
    "How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying"
    Review posted by: Debbie Mason from Peachtree Corners, Georgia, Aug 25, 2011
    
    The role of Bud Frump, played by Nick Mason was off the charts funny. He made the show memorable.
    
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    The role of Bud Frump, played by Nick Mason was off the charts funny. He made the show memorable.
    
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  - Event Name: How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying
    "Review by ArtsMemphis Rants & Raver George Conroy"
    Comment posted by: George Conroy - ArtsMemphis Rants & Raver from Memphis, TN, Aug 17, 2011
    
    “How To Succeed” at Playhouse is sheer, total, unadulterated, sparkling, ambitious entertainment. by George Conroy It's not enough to write that Playhouse on the Square’s production of “How... Expand
    
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    “How To Succeed” at Playhouse is sheer, total, unadulterated, sparkling, ambitious entertainment. by George Conroy It's not enough to write that Playhouse on the Square’s production of “How To Succeed In Business Without Really Trying” under the direction of Kimberly Faith Hickman is spectacular. The revival of this fifty year old -year-old out of date musical with a sexist bent will knock you out. The humor, the tongue-in-cheek approach, the comedic characterizations, the energy, the choreography, the voices, the brilliant set design, the large cast, the acting, the expressions, the music, made for a thrilling, fun-packed musical event. I expected good, what I got was Great!” I could see this production again and again. You should, too. Every one of the 25 cast members in “How to Succeed” exhibits a well-developed character. No one holds back, everyone is giving more than 100% all the time. It’s kudos from curtain up to encore. Jordan Nichols took over J. Pierrepoint Finch. When the lights come up, Nichols is reading a book, narrated by the unseen Voice himself. (Too modest to permit his name to appear in the program, The Voice is that of POTS Executive Director Jackie Nichols.) Finch will do anything to succeed, and this book tells him exactly what to do. Even with tongue-in-cheek, Jordan Nichols’ Pierrepoint is honestly believable. Who hasn't witnessed someone who will do anything to get on the right side of a Boss? The naive, innocent, wide-eyed secretary, Rosemary, deliciously comes alive through the insight of Andrea Rouch. Her beautiful and commanding voice and bright eyes reflect a young woman falling head over heels in love the first time the she meets Finch. Rosemary hears wedding bells without knowing a thing about this sleezy but charming cad. Speaking of cads, Nick Mason takes on the awkward, bumbling, lazy nephew of J.B. Biggley (Ken Zimmerman). Bud Frump works in the mailroom, doing as little as he can, looking and scheming for a promotion that never comes. No one has ever or will ever overshadow Mason in this role. He's a marvel. He never stops moving. Rubber muscles keep him in perpetual topsy-turvy animation. That’s not a disability it’s a gift. Gracefulness will never be a description for Bud, and yet Mason captures the gracefulness of a cat. Ken Zimmerman’s Biggley, owner of the World Wide Wiickets organization will do anything to make himself look good; i.e Jumping on ideas and easily influenced, he absolutely dreads talking to his wife. He's the characterization of the pompous scatter-btained executive, and Zimmerman does his usual magnificent portrayal in the role. Irene Crist – always so versatile in every role she undertakes - adds greatly to the humor. Her comedic side is honest, real, and natural. In this production she even turns a coffee lady into a star. When she announces during a coffee break there is no coffee, the employees come unglued and present the hilarious Coffee Break song. Even though she tells them there will be coffee tomorrow, the employees complain with musical spasmodic antics, rolling on the floor and collapsing in agony in fear that they may not last that long. When Biggley announces a friend of his family is applying for a secretarial position, no one is prepared for Sarah Hoch’s Hedy La Rue, a cigarette girl with no skill except a high squeaky voice and a penchant for outrageous revealing outfits, on the make for anyone of importance wearing pants. Sarah Hoch is a riot, a delightful, playful joyous riot. When Biggley announces a new Vice President of Advertising and the self-centered Daniel Ovington marches in, the veteran award-winner John Hemphill takes center stage. (Hemphill plays a couple of other roles as well). Finch makes sure Biggley knows he is from a rival college. His resignation is expected and Finch replaces him, which is what he schemed for. A plot develops for a high risk advertising campaign based on a kernel of thought planted by the rattle-brained Bud. Blowing up in his face, Finch sees himself falling off the ladder of success and once again washing windows. Just about the time one thinks there can be no more surprises, enter Wally Womper, Chairman of the Board identifying with Finch because he too was once a window washer, himself. It’s interesting to note that POTS Associate Director Dave Landis, who portrays Womper, is an honest to goodness comedic actor. When Finch encounters the ugly reality of failure, Rosemary shows growth in this naive little girl grown up with her showstopper song, “I Believe in You.” She didn't fall in love with an executive. She fell in love with the man, Finch. It matters not what he does. To her it matters who he is and who he has become. Renee’ Kemper is the leader of the band and she deftly controls the keyboards and she sets the exciting musical tempo. Jimmy Humphries’ simple and clever minimalist scenic design is sheer genius with the stage surrounded by huge World Wide Wicket advertising panels. The World Wide Wickets Company sits right in the midst of the art deco era. Likewise the Rebeca Y. Powell costume designs, her bright colors are colorful in the dress of the day and wondrously appropriate for every cast member. Kimberly Faith Hickman not only directed but also choreographed the show, paying close attention to the skills and dance abilities of her cast, giving them graceful, musical, farcical fun. Watch their faces as well as their feet when they dance. They love every moment. Space and time prevent highlighting the names and talents of every actor in this talented cast, but when you see this production they will show you who they are and where their passions lie. “How To Succeed” at Playhouse on the Square should not be missed. It is sheer, total, unadulterated, sparkling, ambitious entertainment. Collapse
    
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  - Event Name: Eleemosynary
    "Eleemosynary"
    Comment posted by: Glenda Kay Mace from Memphis Tn, Jul 19, 2011
    
    Did you ever dream of flying, of casting off a platform with wings attached, and soaring into the clouds? The POTS@the Works production of Eleemosynary, by playwright Lee Blessing, begins with that... Expand
    
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    Did you ever dream of flying, of casting off a platform with wings attached, and soaring into the clouds? The POTS@the Works production of Eleemosynary, by playwright Lee Blessing, begins with that vision. A beautiful, interestingly fragmented film triptych, designed and filmed by Julie Caskey, opens the play and sets the stage for the fragmented lives of three women. Mother, daughter, granddaughter bound by their kinship and yet as the play begins lost to one another. Staged with utmost simplicity, director Ann Marie Caskey weaves the threads of story with visuals, lighting designed by Louisa Koeppel and original music composed by Tom Link. Three accomplished actors fully bring the play to life giving full range to the emotional strife that comes with separation and longing and equally the comic moments that Blessing has so skillfully woven into the story. Karen Mason Riss, plays the strong-willed, eccentric Dorthea, Leah Bray Nichols is Artie, the brilliant daughter fleeing her mother’s dominance, and Olivia Wingate is Echo, the child of exceptional intellect and sensitivity. Caught between mother and grandmother, she seeks their love and approval by giving them what they understand best, her intelligence. The high stakes national spelling bee will get both their attention. Beautifully acted. Eleemosynary plays Thursdays through Sundays at TheatreWorks through July 31. Collapse
    
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