Suzan and Buzz chat with theatre artist Dana Pellebon and say farewell to the MadStage Podcast after one year of hosting.

Suzan and Buzz chat with theatre artist Whitney Derendinger about acting, his other theater work, and the big bushy beard he was growing at the time for an upcoming role.

Suzan and Buzz chat with theatre artist HJ (Heather Jane) Farr about her adventures in theatre.

Suzan and Buzz chat with Impresario and Theater Artist Tony Trout, best known for his leadership role in Are We Delicious? Tony talks about his passion for live theatre and the many hats he wears in the local theatre community.

Buzz chats with Lead Producer Simone LaPierre and Director Suzan Kurry about Bartell Ball Drop Blitz 4, a co-production of Know Better Productions and Mercury Players Theatre. 

"A group of writers, directors, and actors gather on December 30^th to pick names, themes, and writing challenges out of a hat. Then – in teams – they create magnificent theatrical mayhem over the next 24 hours, resulting in an awesome New Year’s Eve production that’s the best end-of-year extravaganza!!! The Blitz is like a box of chocolates…you never know what you’re gonna get :) Proceeds will benefit the Bartell in its gala 20th Anniversary season."

Suzan and Buzz chat with Does Everything But Lighting Artist Malissa Petterson on this week's podcast.

Buzz chats with Suzan Kurry (Hermione), Amy Rowland (Harry Potter) and Sam White (director) about Mercury Theater's upcoming production of "Harry Potter and the Pet Rock" at the Bartell.

HARRY POTTER and the PET ROCK

By Nick Schweitzer

Directed by Sam D. White

The gang from Hogwarts gets the holiday “panto” treatment! Loaded with slapstick humor, corny jokes, and silly song parodies, this original twist on the beloved tale of the boy wizard will delight kids and adults alike. Cheering for the heroes and booing for the baddies is strongly encouraged in this family-friendly holiday treat!

IMMATURE AUDIENCES ONLY!
PARENTAL DISCRETION DISCOURAGED!

Produced by Mercury Players Theater at Bartell Theater's Drury Stage, 113 E. Mifflin St. , Madison

Performances: December 15-30, 2017

Performance Times: 
Friday–Saturday, December 15–16 @ 7:00pm
Sunday, December 17 @ 2:00pm 
Thursday–Friday, December 21–22 @ 7:00pm
Sunday, December 23 @ 2:00pm 
Thursday–Friday, December 28–29 @ 7:00pm
Saturday, December 30 @ 2:00pm FINAL PERFORMANCE

http://madstage.com/Shows/harrypottera171001.html

Suzan and Buzz chat with Jan Levine Thal about Madison's Kathie Rasmussen Women's Theatre (KRASS).

http://krasstheatre.com/

Suzan and Buzz chat with director Louise Stout and actor Gina Gomez about StageQ's upcoming production of Twilight of the Golds at the Bartell Theatre.

Twilight of the Golds

By Jonathan Tolins

Directed by Louise Stout

When David learns his sister is pregnant, he and the entire Gold family couldn’t be happier. However, using newly discovered technology, Suzanne learns her fetus will most likely suffer from the same condition as David, being gay. What happens next forces the entire Gold family to confront issues of bigotry, evolution and the limits of love. What would you do?

Produced by StageQ at Bartell Theatre's Evjue Stage, 113 E. Mifflin St., Madison

Performances: December 1-16, 2017

Performance Times: 
Friday 7:30 PM 12/1/17
Saturday 7:30 PM 12/2/17
Wednesday 7:30 PM 12/6/17
Thursday 7:30 PM 12/7/17
Friday 7:30 PM 12/8/17
Saturday 7:30 PM 12/9/17
Sunday 2:00 PM 12/10/17
Wednesday 7:30 PM 12/13/17
Thursday 7:30 PM 12/14/17
Friday 7:30 PM 12/15/17
Saturday 2:00 PM 12/16/17

Suzan and Buzz chat with actors Zachariah Sterner and Easton Smith about Express Yourself's upcoming production of "Spring Awakening" at the Bartell.

Suzan and Buzz talk with director Steve Noll about Madison Theatre Guild's production of Wait Until Dark.

Wait Until Dark

By Frederick Knott, Adapted by Jeffrey Hatcher

Directed by Steve Noll

Jeffrey Hatcher has adapted Frederick Knott's 1966 original, giving it a new setting. In 1944 Greenwich Village, Susan Hendrix, a blind yet capable woman, is imperiled by a trio of men in her own apartment. As the climax builds, Susan discovers that her blindness just might be the key to her escape, but she and her tormentors must wait until dark to play out this classic thriller's chilling conclusion.

Produced by Madison Theatre Guild at Bartell Theatre's Evjue Stage, 113 E. Mifflin St., Madison

Performance Times: 
Friday, November 3 - 7:30 pm
Saturday, November 4 - 7:30 pm

Thursday, November 9 - 7:30 pm
Friday, November 10 - 7:30 pm
Saturday, November 11 - 7:30 pm
Sunday, November 12 - 2:00 pm

Thursday, November 16 - 7:30 pm
Friday, November 17 - 7:30 pm
Saturday, November 18 - 2:00 pm

Ticket Prices: $20

http://madstage.com/Shows/waituntildar171101.html

Suzan and Buzz talk with director Katherine Johnson, assistant director Elliott Puckette and actor Stephanie Drahozal about Strollers Theatre's production of Eugene Ionesco's Rhinoceros at the Bartell.

Rhinoceros

By Eugene Ionesco

Directed by Katherine Johnson

A rhinoceros rampages through the streets of a small town, shattering the peace. The intruder leaves behind a whirl of chaos and debate as the populace tries to make sense of an inconceivable event. As the dwindling humans are besieged by the growing tide of beasts, one man struggles with his position in this new reality as his fellows transform, infected by a burgeoning ideology.

Rhinoceros is a darkly comic reversal of norms. This incisive and finely crafted theatre of the absurd explores the brutal beauty of the natural. Savagery is simpler than empathy, and in this new world, forsaking humanity is noble.

Produced by Strollers Theatre at Bartell Theater's Drury Stage, 113 E. Mifflin St. , Madison

Performances: November 3-18, 2017

http://madstage.com/Shows/rhinoceros170724.html

In their first appearance with MadStage Podcast, Know Better Productions presents The White Rose. Suzan and Buzz talk with Ethan Richard about Know Better Productions and this remarkable play about the group that boldly protested against Naziism in Germany.

The White Rose

By Lillian Groag

Directed by Simone LaPierre

The play chronicles the arrest, interrogation and eventual execution of a group of University of Munich students who protested the Nazi regime at the height of World War II. The students assigned to themselves the name White Rose.

en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_White_Rose_(play)

Produced by know better productions at Broom Street Theater, Art In Gallery, and Intuit Art Center.

Performances: November 4-18, 2017

Performance Times: 
Nov 4 - 5 (Broom Street Theatre - 1119 Williamson St, Madison, WI 53703)
Sat Nov 4:  3p Show - 8p Show
Sun Nov 5:  3p Show  (Talkback after show - Talkback Guest Dr Stephani Richards-Wilson:  Dr. Stephani Richards-Wilson teaches in the Social Impact graduate program at Claremont Lincoln University.  Her research interests include social entrepreneurship, business education, and Nazi resisters, most notably Willi Graf of the White Rose.)

Nov 10 - 11 (Art In Gallery - 1444 E Washington Ave Madison WI 53704)
Fri Nov 10:  8p Show
Sat Nov 11:  8p Show

Nov 18 (Intuit Art Center - 756 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60642)
Sat Nov 18:  7p Show

Visit facebook.com/knowbetterprod for more information.

http://madstage.com/Shows/thewhiterose170712.html

Suzan and Buzz bring on, for their MadStage Podcast debut, writer/director/actor and Save the Rainforest President Bruce Calhoun and actor Amy Zwicker to talk about the Save the Rainforest project in general, and specifically their upcoming performances of Calhoun's play "The Donation", proceeds from which support the Save the Rainforest projects.

The Donation

By Bruce Calhoun

The representatives of three charities get more than they bargain for when they accept an invitation from a millionaire to spend a weekend in his creepy mansion in this comedy being performed for the first time ever as a fund raiser for Save the Rainforest. More information at www.saverfn.org/plays/

Produced by Save the Rainforest at the Verona Area Performing Arts Theater, 300 Richard Street, Verona, WI 53593

Performances: October 27-29, 2017

Performance Times: 
7:30pm on Oct 27 & 28, 2pm & 7:30pm on Oct 29

http://madstage.com/Shows/thedonation170603.html

This week, instead of talking about a specific show, Suzan and Buzz chat with theater artist David Pausch about his many roles and projects, and how he fell in love with live theater.

Buzz chats with his co-host, actor Suzan Kurry, who plays both Mineola Twins, along with producer Jan Levine Thal and director Julie Johnson about Krass Theater's upcoming production of Paula Vogel's The Mineola Twins at the Bartell Theatre.

The Mineola Twins

By Paula Vogel

Directed by Juli Johnson

This socio-political satire barrels through women's experience and the women's movement over more than three decades in post-World War II America, as seen through the lives of identical twins, Myra and Myrna, from Mineola, New York. The play takes place during the Eisenhower Administration; then at the start of the Nixon Administration; and, finally, during the Bush Administration.

"Ms Vogel's script is most ingenious…The sisters' opposition, neatly representing the schism between right and left in the United States, is self-destructive, and each subliminally longs for connection with the other. ..As the nightmare spins itself out, fears of nuclear attack, sexual predation, and familial estrangement meld in a way that haunts even as it teases." —The New York Times

Produced by Kathie Rasmussen Women's Theatre at Bartell Theatre's Evjue Stage, 113 E. Mifflin St., Madison

Performances: October 13-28, 2017

Performance Times: 
Friday: October 13, 8pm
Saturday: October 14, 8pm
Sunday: October 15, 4pm

Wednesday, October 18, 8pm
Thursday October 19, 8pm
Friday, October 20, 8pm
Saturday, October 21, 8pm
Sunday October 22, 4pm

Thursday, October 26, 8pm
Friday, October 27, 8pm
Saturday, October 28, 4pm & 8pm

http://madstage.com/Shows/themineolatw170602.html

Suzan and Buzz chat once again with CTM's Director of Education and Community Engagement Erica Berman about CTM's upcoming production of "Madagascar — A Musical Adventure."

Madagascar

Book by Kevin Del Aguila, Music & Lyrics by George Noriega & Joel Someillan. Based on the DreamWorks animated motion picture.

Directed by Erica Berman

Madagascar - A Musical Adventure follows four furry friends as they escape from their home in NY’s Central Park Zoo and find themselves on an unexpected journey to the “wild” world of King Julien’s Madagascar. Filled with outlandish characters, adventure galore and an upbeat score, Madagascar is a crack-a-lackin musical for the whole family.

Produced by Children's Theater of Madison at Overture Center for the Arts, 201 State Street, Madison

Performances: October 6-22, 2017

Performance Times: 
Fridays Oct 6 & 20 @ 7pm
Saturdays Oct 7, 14 and 21 at 2:30pm
Saturdays Oct. 7 & 14 at 7pm
Sundays Oct 8, 15 and 22 at 2:30pm

http://madstage.com/Shows/madagascar170531.html

Suzan and Buzz chat with music director Dr. J. Adam Shelton and director Michael Bruno about StageQ's upcoming production of Falsettos at the Bartell Theater.

Falsettos

Book by James Lapine & William Finn, music & lyrics by William Finn

Directed by Michael Bruno, musical direction by Dr. J. Adam Shelton

The Broadway smash hit comes to Madison!

Falsettos is the tale of Marvin, who leaves his wife and young son to live with another man. His ex-wife marries his psychiatrist, and Marvin ends up alone. Two years later, Marvin is reunited with his lover on the eve of his son’s bar mitzvah, just as AIDS is beginning its insidious spread. This musical, about the coming together of the original modern family, premiered on Broadway in 1992 and was nominated for seven Tony Awards, of which it won Best Book of a Musical and Best Original Score. It was revived briefly on Broadway in 2016, and the revival performance was nominated for five Tony Awards.

Produced by StageQ at Bartell Theater's Drury Stage, 113 E. Mifflin St., Madison

Performances: September 29 - October 14, 2017

Performance Times: 
Friday 7:30 PM 9/29/17
Saturday 7:30 PM 9/30/17
Wednesday 7:30 PM 10/4/17
Thursday 7:30 PM 10/5/17
Friday 7:30 PM 10/6/17
Saturday 7:30 PM 10/7/17
Sunday 2:00 PM 10/8/17
Wednesday 7:30 PM 10/11/17
Thursday 7:30 PM 10/12/17
Friday 7:30 PM 10/13/17
Saturday 2:00 PM 10/14/17

http://madstage.com/Shows/falsettos170827.html

Suzan and Buzz's guests are 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee co-directors Andrew Abrams and Gail Becker of Capital City Theatre.

The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee

Book by Rachel Sheinkin; Music and lyrics by William Finn

Directed by Gale Becker and Andrew Abrams

Winner of the Tony and the Drama Desk Awards for Best Book, The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee is about an eclectic group of six adolescents who vie for the spelling championship of a lifetime. Full of true comedic genius and touching stories, the misfit tweens spell their way through a series of (potentially made-up) words providing one unforgettable experience!

Produced by Capital City Theatre at Overture Center for the Arts, 201 State St, Madison

Performances: September 22 - October 1, 2017

Performance Times: 
Fri, Sept 22 and Sat, Sept 23 at 7:30 pm
Sun Sept 24 -2:00 pm
Thurs, Sept 28, Fri Sept 29 and Sat, Sept 30 at 7:30 pm
Sun Oct 1-2:00 pm

http://madstage.com/Shows/the25thannua170718.html

Suzan and Buzz chat with director Scott Albert Bennett and actor Rebecca Raether about Strollers Theater's upcoming production of Edward Albee's A Delicate Balance at the Bartell Theatre.

A Delicate Balance

By Edward Albee

Directed by Scott Albert Bennett

Edward Albee’s classic drama about two couples whose lives are upended by an encroaching, nameless “fear,” bringing a firestorm of doubt, recrimination, and ultimately solace. This play won Albee the first of his three Pulitzer Prizes for Drama.

Produced by Strollers Theatre at Bartell Theatre's Evjue Stage, 113 E. Mifflin St., Madison

Performances: September 15-30, 2017

http://madstage.com/Shows/adelicatebal170621.html

Suzan and Buzz talk with actors Sean Langenecker and Brian Turner about Madison Theatre Guild's upcoming production of Shakespeare's Titus Andronicus at the Bartell Theatre.

Titus Andronicus

By William Shakespeare

Directed by Betty Diamond

Shakespeare’s first known tragedy, TITUS ANDRONICUS was the most frequently produced of Shakespeare’s plays during his lifetime. Today, it is one of his least frequently produced shows. MTG wants to change that! Set in Ancient Rome, the aging Titus Andronicus returns home from war victorious over the “barbarous” Goths, only to realize that Rome itself is “but a wilderness of tigers.” Titus is a violent play about violent times and could easily be performed with blood and gore spilling all over the stage. That will not be this production. The focus here will be on the hard and painful emotional truths of the play.

Produced by Madison Theatre Guild at Bartell Theater's Drury Stage, 113 E. Mifflin St. , Madison

Performances: September 8-23, 2017

Performance Times: 
Sept 8 - 7:30
Sept 9 - 7:30
Sept 14 - 7:30
Sept 15 - 7:30
Sept 16 - 7:30
Sept 17 - 2:00 pm
Sept 21 - 7:30
Sept 22 - 7:30
Sept 23 - 2:00 pm

http://madstage.com/Shows/titusandronic170403.html

Suzan and Buzz chat with director Jake Penner and actor Jason Compton about Left of Left Center's upcoming production of The Agony and the Ecstasy of Steve Jobs.

******

If Foxconn comes to Wisconsin, Jobs must as well.

Mike Daisey had a love affair with technology and a deep admiration for Steve Jobs, one of the most important influencers of this or any age. Then he visited the plant in Shenzhen, China where the iPhone was made. And everything changed.

It’s the story of Apple, Foxconn, iPhones, cyberspace, and the dark implications of our connected age. The agony, and the ecstasy, of Steve Jobs and much more.

Directed by Jake Penner. Produced by Left of Left Center on the Bartell Theatre Evjue stage.

Thurs, Aug 31 – 7:30pm
Fri, Sept 1 – 7:30pm
Sat, Sept 2 – 3:00pm
Sat, Sept 2 – 7:30pm

Tickets available now. $20 general admission, $15 student/senior/service.

Adapted from the monologue by Mike Daisey.

http://leftofleftcenter.com/the-agony-and-the-ecstasy-of-steve-jobs-august-31-september-2/

Suzan and Buzz dusted off their fancy duds and attended the annual Bartie Awards so they could chat with some of the winners.

• Ariel LeBron (Best Choreographer co-winner; "The Nance")
• Michelle Dayton (Best Prop Design; "Steel Magnolias")
• Zak Stowe (Best Lighting Design - Evjue; "Die, Mommie, Die")
• Edric Johnson (Best Actor in a Short; Barbara in "Crafty," Wrong for the Part)
• Scott Albert Bennett (Best Lead Actor in a Comedy; Angela in "Die, Mommie, Die")
• Whitney Derendinger (Best Supporting Actor in a Drama; Caleb in "The Whipping Man")
• Tosumba Welch (Best Lead Actor in a Drama; Simon in "The Whipping Man")
• Bonnie Balke (Producer of "August: Osage County," Best Production of the Season)
• David Pausch (Director of "August: Osage County")
• Gretchen Wheat (Sarah Whelan Award recipient)
• Stacey Garbarski (Best Supporting Actress in a Comedy; Edith in "Die, Mommie, Die")

Suzan and Buzz chat with actor/producer Meghan Randolph and actor Erin McConnell about MTM's upcoming production of the rock musical "Lizzie".

Lizzie

By Steven Cheslik-DeMeyer, Tim Maner, and Alan Stevens Hewitt

Directed by Dana Pellebon

On a sweltering summer morning in 1892, in a small New England city, a prominent business man and his wife were brutally axed to death in their home. Their daughter Lizzie Borden was the prime suspect. Lizzie’s trial was a coast-to-coast media sensation, and her story has become an American legend. This musical version of Lizzie’s story is four women fronting a six -piece rock band, set to a blistering rock score and exploring themes of betrayal, rage, sex, and murder. Learn more at www.lizziethemusical.com

Produced by Music Theatre of Madison at U.W. Wisconsin Union Play Circle, 800 Langdon Street, Madison

Performances: August 17-26, 2017

Performance Times: 
August 17 (preview), August 18, August 19, August 24, August 25, and August 26 at 7:30pm each night
August 25th at 10:30pm

Ticket Prices: $28 general admission, $20 students; late night show $20 general admission, $18 students. 

http://madstage.com/Shows/lizzie170109.html

Suzan and Buzz chat with director Emily Morrison Weeks and actor Tia Tanzer about KRASS Theater's upcoming production of "Melancholy Play: A Contemporary Farce."

Kathie Rasmussen Women’s Theatre (Krass) is delighted to announce the cast for Melancholy Play: A Contemporary Farce by Sarah Ruhl, directed by Emily Morrison Weeks. Eight performances including reduced price nights and three matinees, August 11-19. Talkbacks after some shows. Bartell Theatre, 113 E Mifflin St., Madison, WI 53703

TILLY – Shirley Nwangwa

FRANK – Francisco Torres

FRANCES – Tia Tanzer

JOAN – Suzan Kurry

LORENZO – Joshua Woolfolk

JULIA – Tracy Smith

Photo credit: Jonathan Raymond Popp

About the play

The Melancholy Play is a comedy about a serious subject, clinical Depression. Amid her melancholy, Tilly seeks love and every stranger she meets falls in love with her. One day, inexplicably, Tilly becomes happy, and wreaks havoc on the lives of her paramours.

Tickets $20 bartelltheatre.org or 608-661-9696

Performances Bartell Theatre, Evjue Stage

Friday: August 11, 8pm

Saturday: August 12, 2pm [matinee]

Sunday: August 13, 4pm [matinee] (with Talkback)

Wednesday, August 16, 8pm (with Talkback) $10

Thursday August 17, 8pm (with Talkback) $15

Friday, August 18, 8pm (with Talkback)

Saturday, August 19, 4pm [matinee]

Saturday, August 19, 8pm

http://krasstheatre.com/melancholy-play-official-press-release/

This week, MadStage Podcast co-host Suzan Kurry flips from interviewer to interviewee as Buzz talks with her, along with director John Jajewski and playwright Brendon Smith, about their play "From Awkward Spaces."

From Awkward Spaces: The Story of the Bartell & The Journey to Permanence

By Brendon Smith & Suzan Kurry

Directed by John Jajewski

An original play about the Bartell Theatre’s history. Six local theatre groups, who have been producing plays in whatever space they can find, unite to create a permanent home. Being led by a retiree who likes a challenge, they quickly learn there’s more drama in building a stage than performing on it.

This is a fundraiser to help celebrate the Bartell's 20th Anniversary season.

Produced by Madison Theatre Guild at Bartell Theater's Drury Stage, 113 E. Mifflin St. , Madison

Performances: August 17-19, 2017

Performance Times: 
Only 4 performances, August 17, 18, & 19 (two shows on closing day). 

http://madstage.com/Shows/awkwardspaces170620.html

Buzz Kemper chats with board president and technical director John Penisten about the contributions of the Bartell to local theater.

Suzan and Buzz chat with Director David Lawver and Music Director Duane Draper about Oregon Straw Hat Players' production of "Sondheim On Sondheim."

Sondheim on Sondheim

By Stephen Sondheim and James Lapine

Directed by David Lawver; Duane Draper, Music Director

An intimate musical revue on the life and artistry of Stephen Sondheim. The show weaves together dozens of Sondheim's greatest and most beloved songs with exclusive interview footage of Sondheim himself. A beautiful portrait of the man and his music.

Produced by Oregon Straw Hat Players at venues in Oregon to be announced soon,

Performances: August 4-12, 2017

Ticket Prices: Adults $17; Seniors (65 and older) $15; Youth (HS and younger) $12

Call 608-835-9126 for reservations or more information.

http://madstage.com/Shows/sondheimonso170319.html

Buzz Kemper chats with W. Earle Smith about Madison Ballet's 2017-18 season.

Suzan and Buzz talk with Upstart Crows Productions' Hannah Neis and Ruthanne Fiore about their upcoming production of The Burial at Thebes.

Burial at Thebes

By Seamus Heaney

Directed by Hannah Nies

In this outstanding new translation, commissioned by Ireland's renowned Abbey Theatre to commemorate its centenary, Seamus Heaney exposes the darkness and the humanity in Sophocles' masterpiece, and inks it with his own modern and masterly touch.

Sophocles' play, first staged in the fifth century B.C., stands as a timely exploration of the conflict between those who affirm the individual's human rights and those who must protect the state's security. During the War of the Seven Against Thebes, Antigone, the daughter of Oedipus, learns that her brothers have killed each other, having been forced onto opposing sides of the battle. When Creon, king of Thebes, grants burial of one but not the "treacherous" other, Antigone defies his order, believing it her duty to bury all of her close kin. Enraged, Creon condemns her to death, and his soldiers wall her up in a tomb. While Creon eventually agrees to Antigone's release, it is too late: She takes her own life, initiating a tragic repetition of events in her family's history. (www.samuelfrench.com/p/20841/the-burial-at-thebes-a-version-of-sophocles-antigone)

Produced by Upstart Crows Productions, Inc. at Orchard Ridge United Church of Christ, 1501 Gilbert Road, Madison, WI 53711

Performances: July 27-29, 2017

Performance Times: 
July 27, 28, and 29
7:00pm

Ticket Prices: Donations taken at the door. Suggested donation $15 per person

Call 608-827-9482 for reservations or more information.

http://madstage.com/Shows/burialattheb170411.html

Buzz Kemper chats with Sarah Whelan about KRASS Theater's 2017-18 season, and a bit about her own contributions to local theater.

Suzan and Buzz chat with Madison Shakespeare Company Executive Director Jason Compton about their upcoming readings.

Buzz Kemper goes backstage at the Bartell Theatre 2017-2018 Season Announcement event to talk with local theater companies about their upcoming season of shows. This episode features Stage Q, with Donovan Moen and Zac Stowe.

Suzan and Buzz talk with playwright/director Morganna Grim about Broom Street Theater's production of her play, "Her Dream, A Pen, and A Book".

Her Dream, a Pen, and a Book

By Morganna Grim

Directed by Morganna Grim, with original music composed and performed by Baltimore Krahn, and choreography by Loryn Jonelis

"Let's start where it's simplest to look: with a girl, her Dream, a pen, and a book."

Welcome to Cape Cache, a village cursed centuries ago to remain apathetic and complacent against the trials and joys of the world. Along with this infliction came the mysterious Dreams, guardians from another world to inspire children as they grow up. With their guidance, everything should be in order - but the scales are tipped when families reject the Dreams, and the solemn Corvid swoops in to steal them away. Catry of Cache and Todd the Dream set out to reunite a lost pair in a whimsical fantasy tale of goodwill, hope, and sacrifice.

Produced by Broom Street Theater at Broom Street Theater, 1119 Williamson Street, Madison

Performances: July 13-29, 2017

Performance Times: 
Starting July 13th, every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday in July at 8pm. 

Ticket Prices: $11

http://madstage.com/Shows/herdreamap170314.html

Buzz Kemper chats with Bonnie Balke about Mercury Players Theatre's 2017-18 season.

Suzan and Buzz chat with Madison Shakespeare Company’s Jason Compton about the upcoming wackiness that may ensue when the Bard comes up against “way too much alcohol” as MSC presents "Sloshed Shakespeare: Macbeth."

Buzz Kemper chats with Matt Korda about Strollers Theater's 2017-18 season.

Suzan and Buzz chat with American Players Theatre Artistic Director Brenda DeVita about APT’s 2017 season and new stage. In part two we talk about "Three Sisters," "Pericles, Prince of Tyre," "A View from the Bridge," "Creditors," and the artistic and practical wonders of the brand new APT stage.

Buzz Kemper chats with Jason Compton about Madison Shakespeare Company's 2017-18 season.

Suzan and Buzz chat with American Players Theatre Artistic Director Brenda DeVita about APT's 2017 season in two parts. Here is part 1, where we talk about "A Midsummer Night's Dream," "The Maids," "A Flea in Her Ear," "The Unexpected Man," and "Cyrano de Bergerac."

Buzz Kemper talks backstage with Betty Diamond of Madison Theater Guild about their upcoming season at the Bartell Theatre Season Announcement event for 2017-2018.

Actors Alexandria Chapes and Christian Stevenson talk with Suzan and Buzz about University Theatre's upcoming production of "Almost, Maine."

Almost, Maine

By John Cariani

Directed by David Furumoto

On a cold, clear night in the remote northernmost part of Maine, the residents of a small town discover the sparks of love. Perhaps. Maybe. Almost. Under the magic spell of the northern lights, John Cariani’s play depicts a series of encounters that offer the funny, poignant, and mysterious ways people fall in and out of love. UW-Madison’s University Theatre offers a refreshing breath of cold, crisp Northern air for a romantic summer production.

“A whimsical approach to the joys and perils of romance. Magical happenings bloom beneath the snowdrifts. ALMOST, MAINE explores the thunderclap of love and the scorched earth that sometimes follows.” – NY Times (2006)

The cast features UW students Erik Bergeson, Alexandria Chapes, Jessie Reynolds, and Christian Stevenson as the various residents of Almost, Maine.

Produced by University Theatre (UW-Madison) at U.W. Vilas Hall, 821 University Avenue, Madison

Performances: June 8-25, 2017

Performance Times:
Thursday-Saturday 7:30 PM, Sunday 2:00 PM

Ticket Prices: $10-$20

Call 608-265-2787 for reservations or more information.

http://madstage.com/Shows/almostmaine170424.html

Suzan and Buzz chat with director Kathleen Tissot and actor Matthew Korda about Strollers Theatre's production of Amadeus at the Bartell.

Amadeus

By Peter Shaffer

Directed by Kathleen Tissot

In the court of the Austrian Emperor Josef, Antonio Salieri is the established composer. Enter the greatest musical genius of all time: Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. Salieri has given himself to God so that he might realize his sole ambition to be a great composer. Mozart is a foul-mouthed, graceless oaf who has that which is beyond Salieri’s envious grasp: Genius.

Produced by Strollers Theatre at Bartell Theater's Drury Stage, 113 E. Mifflin St., Madison

Performances: June 2-17, 2017

http://madstage.com/Shows/amadeus170123.html

Suzan and Buzz talk with actor Annalyse Lapajenko and director Emily Morrison Weeks about Madison Shakespeare Company's upcoming production of "As You Like It."

As You Like It

By William Shakespeare

Directed by Emily Morrison Weeks

We that are true lovers run into strange capers.

In As You Like It, Shakespeare introduced the world to Rosalind, one of the all-time romantic and comedic heroines. It’s a tale of betrayal and destiny, of love and pursuit, of sheep and trees, and of learning to be the best you can possibly be.

Produced by Madison Shakespeare Company at Edgewood College Amphitheater, 1000 Edgewood College Dr, Madison, WI 53711

Performances: June 2-11, 2017

Ticket Prices: $15 suggested contribution

http://madstage.com/Shows/asyoulikeit170224.html

Suzan Kurry and Buzz Kemper talk with Justin Schober and Cam Shimniok about the upcoming production of Of Dice and Men.

OF DICE AND MEN

By Cameron McNary

Directed by Suzan Kurry

OF DICE AND MEN shows the world that most gamers aren’t isolated, virgin-for-life losers: theirs is a social hobby not unlike poker or fantasy football. The play explores the rich friendships and romantic lives of a group of lifelong friends who are NOT stereotypical, Cheetos-stained, acne-blighted geeks. AT ALL. These men and women are attractive, smart, charming…and facing some major changes in their lives. Humor, brutal honesty and the good-natured kidding of people who know each other far too well culminate in an unforgettable evening that will make you laugh and think – and do so in a way that celebrates the power of gaming to bring people together, never once apologizing for it.

Produced by Mercury Players Theatre at Bartell Theatre's Evjue Stage, 113 E. Mifflin St., Madison

Performances: May 19 - June 3, 2017

Performance Times:
Friday-Saturday, May 19-20 @ 8:00pm
Thursday May 25 @ 7:30pm
Friday-Saturday, May 26-27 @ 8:00pm
Sunday, May 28 @ 4:00pm
Thursday, June 1 @ 7:30pm
Friday, June 2 @ 8:00pm
Saturday, June 3 @ 4:00pm (FINAL PERFORMANCE)

Ticket Prices: General Admission $20, Students & Seniors $18, Special $15 tickets on 5/25, 5/28, 6/1 and 6/3

Call 608-661-9696 for reservations or more information.

http://madstage.com/Shows/ofdiceandme170217.html

A Year with Frog & Toad

By Robert & Willie Reale

Directed by Erica Berman

Nominated for 3 Tony Awards, this whimsical show follows two friends -- the cheerful, popular Frog and the rather grumpy Toad -- as they celebrate their differences and discover just how much caring and fun you can squeeze into every season of the year. Part vaudeville, part make believe, all charm.

Produced by Children's Theater of Madison at Overture Center for the Arts, 201 State Street, Madison

Performances: May 12-21, 2017

Performance Times:
Saturdays & Sundays 1pm & 4pm; Numerous weekday student matinees (9:30am & noon)

Ticket Prices: $10-$35.

Call 608-255-2080 for reservations or more information.

http://madstage.com/Shows/ayearwithfr160615.html

Suzan & Buzz talk with director Patrick Mahoney about Edgewood College's biennial student directed one-act play presentations for 2017.

Student Directed One-Acts

By various playwrights

Directed by Directing Students

Produced by Jeanne Leep.

Contemporary one-act plays directed by Edgewood Theatre Arts students: fresh, funny, thought-provoking and smart, this variety pack of plays showcases the talents of our students onstage and behind the scenes.

Produced by Edgewood College Theatre at Edgewood College's Diane Ballweg Theatre, 1000 Edgewood College Drive, Madison

Performances: May 4-6, 2017

Performance Times:
May 4, 5, and 6, all 7:30pm shows with an additional matinee on May 6 at 2pm

Ticket Prices: $7 for students/seniors/vets, $12 for adults

Call 608-663-6710 for reservations or more information.

http://madstage.com/Shows/studentdirect160511.html

Suzan and Buzz talk with playwright/director Stephen Murray about Broom Street Theater's upcoming production of his play Geppetto.

Geppetto

By Stephen F. Murray

Directed by Stephen F. Murray

Inspired by the classic story by Carlo Collodi, Geppetto is told from the point of view of the father. Geppetto starts as an angry drunk who creates a puppet to save him from his loneliness. Sadly, Pinocchio’s desire for independence leads him to run away leaving Geppetto alone once again. He then has a decision to make: to stay at home and continue in his dreary life or to take a risk and go after the puppet who may once again reject him. As both search the whole wide world for what defines them, their journeys ultimately lead them to the same place: each other. After the to emerge from the belly of the whale with their lives transformed, they can face their new adventures together. This telling combines the classic children’s tale combined with other familiar myths and fables (such as the biblical tales of the prodigal son and Jonah and the whale) mirrors the challenges we face every day as we strive to shake off our own woodenness and become more human.

This world premier will build on the work of the 2014 In the Works Residency through the Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events. The laboratory helped Murray incorporate clowning, puppetry, music, and masks into the construction of this play for a magical evening of theater.

Produced by Broom Street Theater at Broom Street Theater, 1119 Williamson Street, Madison

Performances: April 28 - May 20, 2017

Performance Times:
Thursday, Fridays, and Saturday at 7:30pm.

Ticket Prices: $11 at bstonline.org

For more information please visit bstonline.org or stephenfmurray.zohosites.com/geppetto-2017.html

Director John Siewert talks with Suzan and Buzz about the upcoming performances of StageQ's "Perfect Arrangement."

Perfect Arrangement

By Topher Payne

Directed by John Siewert

“Perfect Arrangement” by Topher Payne, takes a hard look at the issue of government persecution and blacklisting of LGBT people during the McCarthy era. The work is part of a broader initiative by StageQ to open community dialogue on LGBTQ visibility. Two couples – one gay and one lesbian – seem to have an ideal arrangement posing as heterosexual couples by swapping partners publicly. Madcap classic sitcom-style laughs give way to provocative drama as two “All-American” couples are forced to stare down the closet door. Their perfect lives begins to unravel when Bob and Norma, who work at the State Department are tasked with rooting out sexual deviants from among their ranks. “Perfect Arrangement” opens April 21 and runs through May 6. Tickets available at www.bartelltheatre.org.

Produced by StageQ at Bartell Theatre's Evjue Stage, 113 E. Mifflin St., Madison

Performances: April 21 - May 6, 2017

Performance Times:
Friday, 4/21 8:00pm
Saturday, 4/22 8:00pm
Thursday, 4/27 8:00pm
Friday, 4/28 8:00pm
Saturday, 4/29 8:00pm
Sunday, 4/30 2:00pm
Thursday, 5/4 8:00pm
Friday, 5/5 8:00pm
Saturday, 5/6 2:00pm

Ticket Prices: Thursday & Sunday $15 Friday & Saturday $20

Call 608-661-9696 for reservations or more information

http://madstage.com/Shows/perfectarrang170308.html

The Nance

By Douglas Carter Bean

Directed by Steve Noll

In 1930s New York, burlesque is a dying art. Between the dancing girls were male comedians. Chauncey is one of the best, and his signature act is playing a sissy man, what was called a "nance." But Chauncey harbors a secret. While he pretends to be a straight actor pretending to be gay on stage, in real life he is a very closeted gay man. When new-to-the-city Ned hooks up with Chauncey, he finds his personal life crashing into his on-stage life while the mayor of New York starts cracking down on the "perverts" in the city. A comedic drama with music, from the author of As Bees in Honey Drown and The Little Dog Laughed.

Produced by Madison Theatre Guild at Bartell Theater's Drury Stage, 113 E. Mifflin St. , Madison

Performances: April 21 - May 6, 2017

Performance Times:
Friday, Apr 21 - 7:30, Saturday, Apr 22 - 7:30, Thursday, Apr 27 - 7:30, Friday, Apr
28 - 7:30, Saturday, Apr 29 - 7:30, Sunday, Apr 30 - 2:00 pm, Thursday, May 4 - 7:30, Friday, May
5 - 7:30, Saturday, May 6 - 2:00 pm

Ticket Prices: $20

Call 608-661-9696 for reservations or more information.

http://madstage.com/Shows/thenance170105.html

Actors Katie Brotherton & Kathleen Tissot talk about Strollers Theatre's production of Steel Magnolias.

STEEL MAGNOLIAS
​By Robert Harling
Directed by Scott Albert Bennett
March 31st to April 15th

​The action is set in Truvy's beauty salon in Chinquapin, Louisiana, where all the ladies who are "anybody" come to have their hair done. Helped by her eager new assistant, Annelle (who is not sure whether or not she is still married), the outspoken, wise-cracking Truvy dispenses shampoos and free advice to the town's rich curmudgeon, Ouiser ("I'm not crazy, I've just been in a bad mood for forty years"), an eccentric millionaire, Miss Clairee (who has a raging sweet tooth), and the social leader, M'Lynn. Meanwhile, Shelby (the prettiest girl in town), is about to marry a "good ole boy." Filled with hilarious repartee and not a few acerbic but humorously revealing verbal collisions, the play draws on the underlying themes of strength and love, which makes each character truly touching, funny, and marvelously amiable in good times and bad.

http://www.strollerstheatre.org/

https://itkt.choicecrm.net/templates/BRTL/?prod=SteelMagnolias2017

As most of you know, this podcast was hosted by Christian Neuhaus for a long time. Then, he handed the reins over to Suzan and Buzz. So who are these two? Learn a bit about them in this episode!

Suzan and Buzz chat with playwright/director Malissa Pettersen and actor/assistant director Heather Jane "HJ" Farr about their upcoming production of Pettersen's "Dumpster Flower" at Broom Street Theater.

Dumpster Flower

By Malissa Petterson

Directed by Malissa Petterson

The members of a struggling theatre company make a last-ditch effort to save their jobs and their interpersonal relationships in this meta comedy. With the artistic director and his staff on the chopping block, the Nova Nilla Theatre Collective stages a bizarre rendition of A Midsummer Night's Dream with imminent failure on the horizon. A fully immersive experience, Dumpster Flower weaves together our love affair with theatre and our theatrical love affairs.

Produced by Broom Street Theater at Broom Street Theater, 1119 Williamson Street, Madison

Performances: March 25 - April 15, 2017

Performance Times:

Ticket Prices: $11

http://www.madstage.com/Shows/dumpsterflowe170101.html

Suzan and Buzz chat with Phrannie Lyons and Jan Levine Thal about their upcoming performances of Wrong for the Part, which opens Thursday, March 23 at the Bartell Theatre in Madison.

Wrong for the Part 2017

Directed by Jan Levine Thal and Phrannie Lyons

Now in its sixth uproarious year, Wrong for the Part 2017 is a collection of monologues and scenes from plays, movies, books, historical speeches – played by the wrong actors for those roles! This year’s WftP theme is “Flight” -- running away, having wings, riding an airplane, daydreaming –- whatever “flight” means to each miscast performer. Come laugh, love, be moved, and support Kathie Rasmussen Women's Theatre (KRASS), Madison’s only theater dedicated to promoting women playwrights and directors.

Produced by Kathie Rasmussen Women's Theatre at Bartell Theatre's Evjue Stage, 113 E. Mifflin St., Madison

Performances: March 23-25, 2017

Performance Times:
Three Nights Only: Thursday March 23, Friday March 24, and Saturday March 25 -- at 8pm

Ticket Prices: $20

http://madstage.com/Shows/wrongforthe161108.html

Suzan and Buzz chat with director David Pausch about Mercury Players Theater's production of August: Osage County, running at the Bartell Theatre March 10-25.

AUGUST: OSAGE COUNTY

By Tracy Letts

Directed by David Pausch

A vanished father. A pill-popping mother. Three sisters harboring shady little secrets. When the Weston family unexpectedly reunites after Dad disappears, their Oklahoma family homestead explodes in a maelstrom of repressed truths and unsettling secrets. Mix in Violet, the drugged-up, scathingly acidic matriarch, and you've got an amazing play that unflinchingly - and uproariously - exposes the dark side of a Midwestern American family. WINNER OF THE 2008 PULITZER PRIZE AND TONY AWARD.

Produced by Mercury Players Theater at Bartell Theater's Drury Stage, 113 E. Mifflin St. , Madison

Performances: March 10-25, 2017

Performance Times:
Friday-Saturday, March 10-11 @ 8:00pm
Thursday, March 16 @ 7:30pm
Friday-Saturday, March 17-18 @ 8:00pm
Sunday, March 19 @ 4:00pm
Thursday, March 23 @ 7:30pm
Friday, March 24 @ 8:00pm
Saturday, March 25 @ 4:00pm (FINAL PERFORMANCE-MATINEE ONLY)

Ticket Prices: $20 General Admission $18 Students & Seniors Thursday shows March 16 & 23: $15 Sunday matinee March 19: $15

Call 608-661-9696 for reservations or more information.

http://madstage.com/Shows/augustosage161007.html

Are We Delicious? 5th Anniversary

By the ensemble
Directed by Tony Trout and Andrew Rohn

Are We Delicious? 5th Anniversary celebrates 5 years of abundant creativity. An all-star ensemble of Madison writers, performers and musicians join to create original plays with original music in just 7 days.

Acting/Singing Ensemble: Karen Saari, Doug Reed, Bree Prehn, Amber McReynolds, Dee King, and Catherine Capellaro
Musical Ensemble : Andrew Rohn, Dan Kennedy, and Nick Stanton

Running time: 90 minutes with intermission

Are We Delicious? is an ensemble of Madison writer/performers/musicians who conceive, write, rehearse and perform an original one-hour show in a seven days. Everyone writes, everyone acts, everyone sings! and no one can rest until the final curtain.

Produced by Are We Delicious? at Bartell Theatre's Evjue Stage, 113 E. Mifflin St., Madison

Performances: March 7 - May 15, 2017

Performance Times:
When: March 7, 8, 14 and 15 @ 7:30 pm

Ticket Prices: Admission: $14 general, $10 with student ID. Available at arewedelicious.com/tickets or bartelltheatre.org

Call 608-293-4999 for reservations or more information.

http://madstage.com/Shows/arewedelicio170221.html

The Whipping Man

By Matthew Lopez

Directed by Dana Pellebon

It's April 1865 and the Civil War has just ended. Caleb DeLeon, a severely wounded Jewish Confederate officer, returns to his family home, now in ruins and abandoned by everyone except for two of his family's former slaves. It is the second night of Passover, and the three celebrate a Seder, commemorating the freeing of the Hebrew slaves from bondage in Egypt. But the pains of more recent enslavement are not so easily soothed.

The Whipping Man explores the bitter irony of Jewish slave-owning and the challenging new world in which former slaves and masters find themselves.

Produced by Madison Theatre Guild at Bartell Theatre's Evjue Stage, 113 E. Mifflin St., Madison

Performances: March 3-18, 2017

Performance Times:
Friday, Mar 3 - 7:30, Saturday, Mar 4 - 7:30, Thursday, Mar 9 - 7:30, Friday, Mar 10 - 7:30, Saturday, Mar 11 - 7:30, Sunday, Mar 12 - 2:00 pm, Thursday, Mar 16 - 7:30, Friday, Mar 17 - 7:30, Saturday, Mar 18 - 2:00 pm

Ticket Prices: $20

Call 608-661-9696 for reservations or more information.

http://madstage.com/Shows/thewhippingm161129.html

Morticians in Love

By Christi Stewart-Brown

Directed by Suzan Kurry

"Every body should love death this much."

A shy mortuary owner and her assistant toil alone among the dead until the arrival of a handsome rival mortician who wants to share more than workspace. And the two corpses make five. “V-day is all but dead … flowers and chocolates, formaldehyde and chloroform…”

The play has no nudity, although the corpses will be scantily clad and there are adult sexual situations.

Praise for the play:
"In the midst of death, there is life and love--sacred, profane, unrequited and almost always dysfunctional--in Christi Stewart-Brown's very black, five-character comedy (counting two corpses). Scarcely fare for the squeamish, with its excursions into heterosexual and homosexual couplings among the living and dead, the play nonetheless comes off as a caustic, funny, sharp-eyed autopsy on the difficulties of love...Morticians in Love may be morbid, but it has a heart." - The New York Times

"...a morbid, pervy, and very funny farce...Sure, it's strange, but strangely touching too." - The Washington Post

Christi Stewart-Brown's charmingly morbid comedy is so cheerful and upbeat, you'll hardly believe that you're watching a play about bisexual necrophilia."
— Paul Birchall, Back Stage West

"Morticians is a simple enough idea: the tender story of first love between two devout necrophiliacs. Now, the idea itself gets a laugh, but what's a pleasure is that Stewart-Brown follows through and creates characters, dialogue, and stagings that are a real joy to watch" — Matthew Richter, The Stranger (Seattle)

Produced by Kathie Rasmussen Women's Theatre at Bartell Theater's Drury Stage, 113 E. Mifflin St. , Madison

Performances: February 24 - March 4, 2017

Performance Times:
EIGHT PERFORMANCES (TWO MATINEES)
Friday, Feb 24 -- 8pm
Saturday, Feb 25 -- 8pm
Sunday Feb 26 -- 4pm MATINEE
Wednesday, Mar 1 -- 8pm half price tickets
Thursday, March 2-- 8pm $5 Discount for two or more together
Friday, March 3 -- 8pm
Saturday, March 4 -- 4pm MATINEE
Saturday, March 4 -- 8pm

Ticket Prices: $20

Call 608-661-9696 for reservations or more information.

http://madstage.com/Shows/morticiansin160324.html

Part II as Francisco Torres of Madison Shakespeare Company talks with Suzan & Buzz about their upcoming production of Richard II. MadStage Podcast is co-produced and co-hosted by Director/actor Suzan Kurry and Audio for the Arts studio owner/voice talent actor Buzz Kemper.

Francisco Torres of Madison Shakespeare Company talks with Suzan & Buzz about their upcoming production of Richard II. MadStage Podcast is co-produced and co-hosted by Director/actor Suzan Kurry and Audio for the Arts studio owner/voice talent actor Buzz Kemper.

Christian Neuhaus, former producer and host of the MadStage Podcast, talk with Suzan & Buzz about his history with the show, his goals and hopes for the show, and the handoff of production and hosting duties to Director/actor Suzan Kurry and Audio for the Arts studio owner/voice talent actor Buzz Kemper.

http://deliciousaudiotheatre.libsyn.com/

Sounds Delicious Audio Theatre is a weekly podcast of 3 to 4 minute radio plays written and recorded before a live audience in Madison, Wisconsin. The plays are created over only two days by a supportive, 8-person ensemble. Everyone writes, everyone acts and no one can rest until the ON AIR light goes off. 

Sounds Delicious grows out of the experience of Are We Delicious? an ensemble of Madison performer-writers who write, rehearse and premiere an hour-long show of short plays in only seven days. Fresh, local, fun.

Detroit '67

By Dominique Morisseau

Directed by Dana Pellebon

Winner of the Edward M. Kennedy Prize for Drama Inspired by American History!

Dominique Morisseau takes the audience on a journey to 1967, in the city of Detroit. Motown music is getting the party started, and Chelle and her brother Lank are making ends meet by turning their basement into an after-hours joint. But when a mysterious woman finds her way into their lives, the siblings clash over much more than the family business. As their pent-up feelings erupt, so does their city, and they find themselves caught in the middle of the '67 riots.

Produced by Kathie Rasmussen Women's Theatre at Bartell Theatre's Evjue Stage, 113 E. Mifflin St., Madison

Performances: October 28 - November 12, 2016

Performance Times:
Friday, October 28, 8pm
Saturday, October 29, 8pm
Sunday, October 30, 2pm, MATINEE
Thursday, November 3, 8pm -- half-price tickets
Friday, November 4, 8pm
Saturday, November 5, 8pm
Sunday, November 6, 2pm MATINEE
Wednesday, November 9, 8pm
Thursday, November 10, 8pm
Friday, November 11 8pm
Saturday, November 12, 8pm

Ticket Prices: $20

Call 608-661-9696 for reservations or more information.

Esther's Descendants

By Jan Levine Thal

Directed by Jan Levine Thal

"A ghost. Some gangsters. Roses."

Mother has died after years of alcoholism and dementia. But in the afterlife, she recovers. In fact, death suits the old psychopath, frustrated as she is that the living can't hear her. Her descendants have inherited a crumbling mansion, a swamp, and a bloody past. Can she guide them to brighter days -- and at what cost?

Produced by Broom Street Theater at Broom Street Theater, 1119 Williamson Street, Madison

Performances: September 9 - October 1, 2016

Performance Times:
Thursday, Friday, Saturday 8pm
September 9 - October 1

Ticket Prices: $11

bstonline.org for reservations or more information.

Laughter on the 23rd Floor

By Neil Simon

Directed by David Pausch

Kicking off Strollers 60th Season Retrospactacular!
"Laughter on the 23rd Floor" is inspired by the playwright's youthful experience as a staff writer on Sid Caesar's Your Show of Shows, with all the attendant comic drama as the harried writing staff frantically scrambles to top each other with gags while competing for the attention of star madman "Max Prince".

Produced by Strollers Theatre at Bartell Theatre's Drury Stage, 113 E. Mifflin St., Madison

Performances: September 9-24, 2016

Performance Times:
Friday September 9th 7:30 PM
Saturday September 10th 7:30 PM
Sunday September 11th 2:00 PM
Thursday September 15th 7:30 PM
Friday September 16th 7:30 PM
Saturday September 17th 7:30 PM
Wednesday September 21st 7:30 PM
Thursday September 22nd 7:30 PM
Friday September 23rd 7:30 PM
Saturday September 24th 2:00 PM

Ticket Prices: $20.00 Adult $15.00 Student/Senior/Member

Call 608-661-9696 for reservations or more information.

Black & White

By Kip Price

Directed by Heather Jane Farr

Set in an up-and-coming neighborhood, an alternative coffeeshop, proud of its record for inclusiveness, finds that it has become the latest target of the suburban elite. As the employees struggle to fight against neighborhood pressures to close up shop, they find that their goals, personal and professional aren't quite as clearly defined as once they thought.

Produced by Broom Street Theater at Broom Street Theater, 1119 Williamson Street, Madison

Performances: August 5-27, 2016

Performance Times:
Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays at 8pm

Ticket Prices: $11

Call 608-244-8338 for reservations or more information.

The Tragedy Of Macbeth

By William Shakespeare

Directed by Francisco Torres

A drum, a drum! Macbeth doth come.

It is the story of the ambition-fueled rise and precipitous fall of Lord and Lady Macbeth. Loyalty, despair, manipulation, madness, and revenge are all in play this summer.

Madison Shakespeare Company returns to full-length productions with this timeless tale. Performances are outdoors at the Edgewood College Amphitheater, located behind The Stream building.

Performances: July 21-24, 2016

Performance Times:
Thursday July 21, 6:30 PM
Friday July 22, 6:30 PM
Saturday July 23, 2:00 PM
Saturday July 23, 6:30 PM
Sunday July 24, 6:30 PM

Ticket Prices: $12 suggested contribution

Reservations accepted at www.madisonshakespeare.org/reservations.

To break up the monotony in Purgatory's laundromat, souls rivals for immediate rapture: in a good, old-fashioned dance-a-thon. Swing and red tape, plus the proverbial deal with the not-so proverbial Devil? All in an eternity's work.

STARRING (in order of appearance):
HeatherJane Farr
Alyssa Stowe
Loryn Jonelis
Morganna Grim
Stacey Garbarski
Dunes
Wendy Prosise
Anthony Cary
Emma Ruby Roberts
Mitch Taylor
Lacey Smithmier

With:
John Siewert (stage manager)
Jessica Jane Witham (choreographer)
Taylor Kokinos (lighting design)
Lindsey Hoel-Neds (costume design)
Katie Rattigan (East Coast props design)
Viktor Petterson (set, sound, and Midwest props design; producer)
and Heather Renken (BST's artistic director and our appointed company representative)

Broom Street Theater's January 2016 production of The 800th Annual Salvation Swing-Off has been accepted to the 2016 New York International Fringe Festival! We are hosting a two weekend Madison run to benefit our travel to New York City!

Performance Dates:
Friday, July 8th: 10:30pm
Saturday, July 9th: 2pm
Sunday, July 10th: 2pm
Friday, July 15th: 10:30pm
Saturday, July 16th: 2pm
Sunday, July 17th: 2pm

Tickets are $15 or $10 for BST members; the show runs 75 minutes.

Please check out our Generosity page at https://www.generosity.com/community-fundraising/the-800th-annual-salvation-swing-off to donate or share!

Are We Delicious? is an ensemble of Madison writers and actors who write, rehearse and premiere a show of humor and heart in a single week. Everyone writes, everyone acts, and no one can rest until the final curtain.

The Act 1 ensemble features Cooper Talbot, Mallory Saurer, Christian Neuhaus, Stephen Montagna, Dan McCoy, Phrannie Lyons, Matthew Korda, and Donald Dexter.

The Act 2 ensemble features Matt Sloan, Kelly Maxwell, Jess Schuknecht, Doug Reed, Deborah Hearst, and Catherine Capellaro.

http://youtu.be/mgLq1jS_tYc

http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/2548993

Blithe Spirit

By Noël Coward

Directed by Dan Myers

Strollers Theatre, ltd. presents Noël Coward's sparkling comedy and "improbable farce." Blithe Spirit revolves around Charles, who is planning a séance as research for his new book. He invites the eccentric medium, Madame Arcati, into his English country home, intending to expose the Madame as a fraud.

To witness this event, Charles and his second wife, Ruth, invite the skeptical Dr. Bradman and his anxious-to-believe wife, Violet. When, in the course of the séance, Madame Arcati mistakenly summons Charles' first wife, Elvira, back from the beyond, things get thoroughly out of hand.

Produced by Strollers Theatre at Bartell Theatre's Evjue Stage, 113 E. Mifflin St., Madison

Performances: April 29 - May 21, 2016

Performance Times:
Friday, April 29, 2016 - 7:30pm
Saturday, April 30, 2016 - 7:30pm
Sunday, May 1, 2016 - 2:00pm
Thursday, May 5, 2016 - 7:30pm
Friday, May 6, 2016 - 7:30pm
Saturday, May 7, 2016 - 7:30pm
Wednesday, May 11, 2016 - 7:30pm
Thursday, May 12, 2016 - 7:30pm
Friday, May 13, 2016 - 7:30pm
Saturday, May 14, 2016 - 7:30pm
Thursday, May 19, 2016 - 7:30pm
Friday, May 20, 2016 - 7:30pm
Saturday, May 21, 2016 - 2:00pm

Ticket Prices: $20

Call 608-661-9696 for reservations or more information.

Coyote Moon

By Samuel D. White

Directed by David Pausch

Frank hates his life: he lost his job, his pregnant girlfriend’s marrying another guy, and he's pretty sure he is going to turn into a “were-coyote” when the full moon comes up tonight. Maybe the best thing to do is lock a tow chain around his neck… but then again… maybe not. Young Frank’s mom, his former fiancée, his neighbors and friends all gather to witness (and perhaps, enjoy) his growing distress as moon-rise draws nigh. Coyote Moon: a trickster love story with a small-town tavern, Eddie Arnold, the full moon, a touch of the supernatural – and a whole lot of beer.

Produced by Mercury Players Theater at Bartell Theatre's Evjue Stage, 113 E. Mifflin St., Madison

Performances: April 8-23, 2016

Performance Times:
Friday–Saturday, April 8–9 @ 8:00pm
Thursday, April 14 @ 7:30pm
Friday–Saturday, April 15–16 @ 8:00pm
Sunday, April 17 @ 4:00pm
Thursday, April 21 @ 7:30pm
Friday, April 22 @ 8:00pm
Saturday, April 23 @ 4:00pm (NO evening performance on 4/23)

Ticket Prices: General Admission $20 Student & Seniors $18 Special $15 tickets for either Thursday show and the Sunday (4/17) matinee

Call 608-661-9696 for reservations or more information.

Sweet William

By Doug Reed

Directed by Doug Reed

Broom Street Theater is proud to announce "Sweet William."

The infield dirt turns to mud, and the diamond loses its shine, as the meanest major leaguer who ever wore spikes finally submits to an interview fifty years after his playing days.

What was Willie's part in baseball's most sordid sex scandal? What really happened to the team owner's missing daughter?

A rollicking tragicomedy told in flashback - a sordid tale of virtue and vice; sunshine fields and shadowy back rooms - where only the Grim Reaper can call the final out.

Produced by Broom Street Theater at Broom Street Theater, 1119 Williamson Street, Madison

Performances: March 18 - April 9, 2016

Performance Times:
Thursday, Friday, Saturday @8pm

Ticket Prices: $11

An Evening's Affair 2: Shakespeare's Betrayals

Directed by Francisco Torres, Emily Morrison-Weeks, Greg Hudson, Kyra McFarland, and Jason Compton

Madison Shakespeare Company's anthology series An Evening's Affair returns with an all-new selection of stirring and shocking scenes from the canon. Built this time around the themes of betrayal and backstabbing, this second installment of An Evening's Affair explores the darker side of friendships, the inconstancy of love, and the instability of hatred.

An Evening's Affair 2 delivers 10 different scenes from nine of Shakespeare's plays, including Macbeth, Hamlet, and Romeo and Juliet, as well as less frequently produced works such as King Lear and Titus Andronicus.

An Evening's Affair 2 is performed by Mike Dartt, Donald Dexter, Sarah Krahn, Betsy Wood, Jason Compton, Bryan Metrish, Kyra McFarland, Deanna Martinez, Laura Kochanowski, and Katherine Johnson.

Produced by Madison Shakespeare Company

Performances: February 18 - 28, 2016

Performance Times and Locations:

• Thur, Feb 18 7:30
  Capital Brewery
  7734 Terrace Ave, Middleton WI
• Fri, Feb 19 7:30
  MercLab
  930 N. Fair Oaks Ave, Madison WI
• Sat, Feb 20 7:30
  MercLab
  930 N. Fair Oaks Ave, Madison WI
• Wed, Feb 24 7:30
  Bartell Theatre
  113 E. Mifflin, Madison WI
• Fri, Feb 26 7:30
  Arts + Literature Laboratory
  2021 Winnebago St, Madison WI
• Sat, Feb 27 5:00
  Broom Street Theater
  1119 Williamson St, Madison WI
• Sun, Feb 28 4:00
  High Noon Saloon
  701A E. Washington Ave, Madison WI

Ticket Prices: $10 suggested contribution

Go to AEA.mobi for reservations or more information.

Note: The lighting designer for Monster Boogie is Taylor Kokinos, and not Luke Kokinos as stated in the podcast episode.

Monster Boogie

By Rob Matsushita

Directed by Rob Matsushita

Monster Boogie, the final Boogie written and directed by Rob Matsushita!

A "Boogie" is a show where we play spoken word or children's albums, and act them out onstage (going by the mindset of the children we were when we first heard them)

Monster Boogie is another vinyl-strewn romp through spoken word albums of the past, and this time, we're taking on horror, because you always save the best for last!

Ghosts, vampires, werewolves, serial killers, and the working-class heroes who bust them. This is your last chance to Boogie!

Produced by Broom Street Theater at Broom Street Theater, 1119 Williamson Street, Madison

Performances: February 12 - March 5, 2016

Performance Times:
Thursday, Friday, Saturday, at 8pm

Ticket Prices: 11.00

StageQ, Inc. is proud to present local playwright Dan Myers’ captivating drama Finding Human running November 13th through November 28th on the Evjue Stage in the Bartell Theater.

Synopsis: 10 years ago, James was sentenced to Florida’s death row for the brutal murder of a priest. He never provided a reason for his actions, but rather accepted his guilt in silence. This is the story of the last week of this man’s life and some of the people that share his immediately world. Each of them trying their best to answer the question: Why?

Finding Human had its first run in January 2015 at Broom Street Theater, where it received strongly favorable audience reactions and reviews.

Review from the Broom Street run.

When Michael Bruno, President of StageQ, Inc. and Dan Myers first discussed bringing Finding Human to StageQ’s 2015-2016 season, Dan Myers only had one request: that it comes with the same cast. So, returning in the roles they originated at Broom Street Theater are:

Bob Moore as James Anderson
Jim Chiolino as Father Martin
Donnovan Moen as William (Bill) Shaw
Kirk Baumbach as Sergeant McGovern

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TRASH

Directed by Jessica Lanius

What do you save and what do you throw away?

Our disposable society has created tons and tons of trash. But the things we throw away aren’t always tangible – sometimes they are the chance to change, to risk, to love. Sometimes trash is the byproduct of greed, a source of beauty, or the result of destruction. Sometimes it’s just talk. Sometimes it’s the difference between life and death. Join us as we mine ordinary trash for extraordinary stories.

True to its mission, Theatre LILA is creating a collage of music, movement, and scenes from writers across the country, bringing it all to life in unexpected ways.
Authors contributing to the piece include James Caputo, Ajanae Dawkins, Olivia Dawson, Lee Ehmke, Amelia Cook Fontella, Karl Iglesias, Jessica Lanius, Mike Lawler, Tyler Marchant, Andy Arden Reese, Gwendolyn Rice, and Katrin Talbot. An original musical score accompanying the evening was composed by Erin Crabb.

The cast of Trash includes: Kelly Coffey, Olivia Dawson, Karl Iglesias, Mara McGhee, young performer Miranda Dove-García, and Michael Herold and Michael Huftile, who appeared in Theatre LILA’s The Suitcase Dreams last season.

Produced by Theatre Lila at Overture Center for the Arts, 201 State St, Madison

Performances: October 1-11, 2015

Performance Times: 
Thursday, October 1 at 7:30pm (Preview)
Friday, October 2 at 7:30pm
Saturday, October 3 at 2:30pm
Saturday, October 3 at 7:30pm
Sunday, October 4 at 2:30pm 
Thursday, October 8 at 7:30pm
Friday, October 9 at 7:30pm
Saturday, October 10 at 2:30pm
Saturday, October 10 at 7:30pm
Sunday, October 11 at 2:30pm

Ticket Prices: Adults - $29 Students - $15

Call 608-258-1414 for reservations or more information.

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IN A CLEARING by Karen Saari (Madison, WI) - Thursday, October 1st, 7:30pm 
Set in a small town in Northern Wisconsin, In a Clearing centers around Mark, a newly recovering alcoholic embarking on a relationship with Pam, a childhood friend who has returned home in the wake of a family tragedy. As Mark copes with sobriety, he begins to suffer from flashbacks to an event that may eventually threaten his relationship and the life he is trying to rebuild.

For all three plays from the festival read the information below.

2015 Wisconsin Wrights Play Festival 

When: October 1st, 2nd, and 3rd at 7:30pm
Where: Frederic March Play Circle (2nd floor of UW Memorial Union, next to Wisconsin Union Theater)
800 Langdon St.
Madison, WI 53706

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Connect

Directed by Sara Rohs

MCVD will be exploring the theme of Human Connection, using concepts such as relationships, aging, the life cycle, and the power of community. This theme is broad enough to be accessible to a diverse audience, but will also serve as a statement that motivates others to love their community and to come together to serve one another.

Produced by Madison Contemporary Vision Dance at Overture Center for the Arts, 201 State Street, Madison

Performances: September 19-20, 2015

Performance Times: 
Saturday Sept 19, 2pm and 7pm
Sunday Sept 20, 2pm

Ticket Prices: $14 for Students and Seniors $16 for Adults

Call 608-258-4141 or visit www.mcvdance.com for reservations or more information.

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RAPTURE, BLISTER, BURN

By Gina Gionfriddo

Directed by Sara Beth Hahner

In this award-winning new comedy, Catherine is a rockstar academic feminist and Gwen is a brilliant wife and homemaker; they reunite years after their grad school days, unfulfilled in polar-opposite ways. Each woman covets the other’s life, commencing a game of musical chairs – the “prize” being Gwen’s husband, Don! Throw in a mouthy babysitter and a mom who hands out wisdom in a martini glass, and you've got what The Boston Globe calls a "shrewd, incisive, thoroughly winning comedy."

The New York Times says it's "intensely smart, immensely funny."

Entertainment Weekly says "There's nothing more enjoyable than watching super-smart characters make exceedingly dumb decisions..."

Tickets can be purchased 24/7 at www.bartelltheatre.org

Produced by Mercury Players Theater at Bartell Theatre's Evjue Stage, 113 E. Mifflin St., Madison

Performances: September 18 - October 3, 2015

Performance Times: 
Friday, September 18–Saturday, September 19 @ 8pm
Thursday, September 24 @ 7:30pm
Friday, September 25–Saturday, September 26 @ 8pm
Sunday, September 27 @ 4pm
Thursday, October 1 @ 7:30pm
Friday, October 2 @ 8pm
Saturday, October 3 @ 4pm (FINAL PERFORMANCE - no evening show)

Ticket Prices: $20 General Admission $18 Students and Seniors SPECIAL $15 price on Thursdays (9/24 and 10/1)

Call 608-661-9696 for reservations or more information.

The Boy Friend

By Sandy Wilson

Directed by Jim Chiolino; Music Director, Justin Wilder

A witty send-up of the frothy musicals of the 1920s, this musical, set in Madame Dubonnet's finishing school outside of Nice, tells the story of Polly, an English heiress, who longs for a boyfriend. Her father, who believes any boy who isn't wealthy will court Polly only for her money, has forbidden her to date below her class. Polly, of course, falls for Tony, the messenger boy, and leads him to believe she is a working class girl. Mistaken identities and hilarity ensues!! Julie Andrews made her Broadway debut in this show. MTG celebrates its 70th season with the 4th production of this show in its history.

Produced by Madison Theatre Guild at Bartell Theater's Drury Stage, 113 E. Mifflin St., Madison

Performances: September 11-26, 2015

Performance Times: 

Ticket Prices: $20.00

Call 608-661-9696 for reservations or more information.

One Night Only! 

After many years of composer submissions and being asked to premiere new pieces, MTM is thrilled to be able to bring its first series of musical theatre readings to Madison! This inaugural festival of new works showcases three innovative, thought-provoking pieces created by promising new voices in the musical theatre canon.

The first show in this series is Alice, written by Dan Myers and Meghan Rose. This is not your typical lookingglass. Alice in this story has escaped to Wonderland as a way to face her inner demons. She encounters a variety of characters along her way, seeing numerous parallels to her life as she travels on her bizarre journey. A world premiere from Madison's own Dan Myers (playwright for Broom St. Theatre's Finding Human, The Point of it All and Chat) and Meghan Rose. (Little Red Wolf, I Saw The Creature, and other local bands; composer of Z-Town, music director Xanadu, Bare, and MTM's 2008 production of john & jen.)

Featuring George Abbott, Rylie Butzbaugh-Patrick, Elizabeth Engle, Janine Gardner, Dee King, Liz Griffith, Krystal Lonsdale, Kate Mann, Erin McConnell, Gregory Reed, Hannah Ripp-Dieter, and Mark Snowden.

All readings are FREE, but reservations are recommended.

In the country of Proper, people are given a future path upon birth, a fate from which they mustn’t stray; otherwise, they are declared fateless and forced into camps. When a genderless individual with a mysterious past lands in one of these camps, the corrupt scramble to maintain order. Knowledge will set the fateless free, if only they have the courage to bite the apple.

A political thriller about free will and social injustice, Bite the Apple opens Friday, August 14th and runs Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays through September 5th.

Written and directed by: Malissa Petterson
Musical director: Meghan Rose
Choreographer: Simone LaPierre
Stage manager: Matthew Viktor Petterson
Starring:
Alex Brick
Heather Jane Farr
Morganna Grim
Donnovan Moen
Jordan Apollo Pulley
Heather Renken
John Siewert
Alyssa Stowe

Broom Street Theater is located at 1119 Williamson Street, Madison, WI. House opens fifteen minutes prior to curtain. To reserve tickets, please call 608-244-8338 or go to bstonline.org/reserve.

We’ll see you in Proper!

Miss Julie

By August Strindberg

Directed by Aliza Feder

Miss Julie is one of Strindberg's early, "Naturalistic" plays. Set against the backdrop of the Midsummer Eve holiday, the drama explores the intersection of class, power and sex. There are three speaking parts - Miss Julie, daughter of a nobleman (age 18-26), Jean, the valet (age 30-40) and the cook, Kristin (age 3-40). There are non-speaking roles (as peasants and other servants) for all ages.

Produced by Fermat's Last Theater Company at Fredric March Play Circle, UW Memorial Union

Performances: July 30 - August 9, 2015

Performance Times: 
Thursday/Friday/Saturday at 7 PM. Sunday matinee at 2 PM. Second week performances TBD

Ticket Prices: $10

Call 608-265-4206 for reservations or more information.

NINE

By Maury Yeston and Arthur Kopit

Directed by Meghan Randolph

This stunning, Tony Award winning musical, featuring a cast of one man and 15 women, is often regarded as one of the most impressive achievements of contemporary musical theatre. Based on Fellini’s 8 1/2, the story is of filmmaker Guido Contini and the women in his life who both inspire and impede him: his wife, mistress, muse, boss, and more. Haunted by the past and tortured by the present, he struggles to complete a truly meaningful film, while what seems like the whole world watches, hoping for him to succeed...or fail.

Produced by Music Theatre of Madison at Brink Lounge, 701 East Washington Suite 105, Madison

Performances: July 23 - August 1, 2015

Performance Times: 
July 23: 7:30pm Preview 
July 24, 25, 31, August 1 at 7:30pm
July 39 at 7:30pm-Pay What You Can

Ticket Prices: $18-$20

Call TBA for reservations or more information.

A Sky Painted Brown

By Naomi Bielefeldt, Nancy Craig, Clarice LaFayette, Donnovan Moen, Emily Morrison-Weeks, Gail Sterkel, Jan Levine Thal

Directed by Naomi Bielefeldt

A short play that asks the big question: whose fault is bullying?

A Sky Painted Brown, an original play by Madison-area playwrights, exposes the daily indignities a bullied student endures in tandem with the well-meaning but sometimes misguided responses from friends, parents, and teachers. With humor and pathos, honesty and sensitivity, the play’s journey is difficult yet rewarding. It runs one hour and includes talkbacks after each performance with clergy, social workers, and psychologists. The play is appropriate for middle-school age or older.

Cast: Lloyd Cosme, Nancy Craig, Chris Gelinskey, Brendan Hartmann, Codi Shandel Kline, Clarice Lafayette, Drew Lehmann, Sybil Levine, Emily Morrison-Weeks, Meg Murphy, Heather Renken, Emma Staudenmaier

Friend our characters on Facebook for backstories and teasers: Camille St Vincent, Charlie Rogers, Tiffany Rochet, Nick Wilson, Lexie Davidson, Amy Brown, and Lydia Palmer

TALKBACKS AFTER EVERY SHOW

Produced by Kathie Rasmussen Women's Theatre at Bartell Theatre's Evjue Stage, 113 E. Mifflin St., Madison

Performances: July 24 - August 1, 2015

Performance Times: 
Eight Performances — Two Matinees
July 24 through August 1, 2015
Friday July 24, 8pm
Saturday, July 25, 8pm
Sunday, July 26, 2pm Matinee
Wednesday, July 29, 8pm – half price tickets for all
Thursday, July 30, 8pm
Friday, July 31, 8pm
Saturday, August 1 – TWO SHOWS: 2pm Matinee and 8pm

Ticket Prices: $20 Group rates available

Call 608-661-9696 for reservations or more information.

By Jerome Lawrence and Robert E. Lee

Directed by Joshua Biatch

Based on the famous Scopes ‘monkey trial,’ this explosive drama explores the ongoing struggle between science and religion. Although set in the 1920s, the issues raised are still being debated today.

Produced by Upstart Crows Productions, Inc. at First Baptist Church, 518 North Franklin Avenue, Madison

Performances: July 8-11, 2015

Performance Times: 
July 8, 9, 10, and 11 at 7:00 pm

Ticket Prices: suggested donation $15

Call 608-827-9482 for reservations or more information.

The Iliad, The Odyssey, and All Greek Mythology in 99 Minutes or Less

By Jay Hopkins and John Hunter

Directed by Samantha Biatch

"On a simple stage, with the clock ticking in front of everyone's eyes, the cast speeds through all of Greek Mythology. It’s funny, updated and made easy to understand. All the silly decisions, the absurd destinies, and the goofy characters are presented lightning-bolt fast with hysterical results as the clock is stopped with only seconds to spare." - Samuel French Just like it sounds: all the incest, intrigue, and amorality of ancient Greece in under 100 minutes.

Produced by Upstart Crows Productions, Inc. at First Baptist Church, 518 North Franklin Avenue, Madison

Performances: August 2-5, 2015

Performance Times: 
August 2, 3, 4, 5 at 7:00 pm

Ticket Prices: suggested donation $15

Call 608-827-9482 for reservations or more information.

Pudding

By Michael Tooher

Directed by Eric Holz

A driven young woman attempts to take control of a reclusive middle aged widower’s life.

Produced by Broom Street Theater at Broom Street Theater, 1119 Williamson Street, Madison

Performances: July 10 - August 1, 2015

Performance Times: 
8 pm Thurs/Fri/Sat

Ticket Prices: $11

Call 608-244-8338 for reservations or more information.

Avenue Q

By Music and Lyrics by Robert Lopez & Jeff Marx, Book by Jeff Whitty, Based on an original concept by Robert Lopez and Jeff Marx

Directed by Thomas J. Kasdorf & Matt Starika

Winner of the TONY "Triple Crown" for Best Musical, Best Score and Best Book, Avenue Q is part flesh, part felt, and packed with heart.

The laugh-out-loud musical tells the timeless story of a recent college grad named Princeton who moves into a shabby New York apartment all the way out on Avenue Q. He soon discovers that although the residents seem nice, it's clear that this is not your ordinary neighborhood. Together, Princeton and his new-found friends struggle to find jobs, dates, and their ever-elusive purpose in life.

Filled with gut-busting humor and a delightfully catchy score, not to mention puppets, Avenue Q is a truly unique show that has quickly become a favorite for audiences everywhere. Although the show addresses humorous adult issues, it is similar to a beloved children's show; a place where puppets are friends, Monsters are good and life lessons are learned.

Produced by Middleton Players Theatre at Middleton Performing Arts Center, Middleton High School, 2100 Bristol Street,Middleton

Performances: 

June 25, 26, & July 2, 3 at 7:30pm

June 27 & July 5 at 2:00pm

Ticket Prices: Adults $25 Seniors $20 Students $15

Call 800-838-3006 for reservations or more information.

Violet

By Jeanine Tesori and Brian Crawley

Directed by Stephen Amato

Capital City Theatre announces Violet. Christine Dwyer, most recently seen on Broadway as Elphaba in Wicked, stars in the title role. The production is directed by Stephen Amato with choreography by Joe Barros. Andrew Abrams, Artistic Director, will also serve as musical director.

Violet was recently on Broadway and nominated for Best Musical Revival of 2014 and is an adaptation of Doris Betts “The Ugliest Pilgrim.” This musical tells the story of a young woman’s quest for beauty amidst the image-obsessed landscape of the 1960s. Facially disfigured in a childhood accident, Violet dreams of a miraculous transformation through the power of faith. Convinced that a televangelist in Oklahoma can heal her, she hops a Greyhound bus and starts the journey of a lifetime.

Produced by Capital City Theatre at U.W. Old Music Hall, 925 Bascom Mall, Madison

Performances: June 12-21, 2015

Performance Times:

Ticket Prices: $25 - $45

Call (608) 622-7507 for reservations or more information.

Spirits to Enforce

By Mickle Maher

Directed by Ned O'Reilly and Sara Beth Hahner

Twelve superheroes in their everyday guises hold a telethon to raise money for a production of The Tempest. The complex natures of heroism and villainy are comically explored through overlapping dialogue, unrequited love, and empathy for the everyperson in this literate, funny, moving play by Chicago playwright Mickle Maher. Produced by the folks who brought you Beta Blockers in February, the play will be performed, barnstormer style, at The Goodman Community Center in Madison, Firefly Coffee House in Oregon, Watertower Chop House in Sun Prairie, I'm Board Game Store in Middleton, and Tapit/New Works in Madison. Some venues will offer beverage service and light fare. See leftofleftcenter.com for more details.

Produced by Left of Left Center.

Performances: June 5-14, 2015

Performance Times:

• FRIDAY JUNE 5 7:30 pm Goodman Community Center, 149 Waubesa Street, Madison
• SATURDAY JUNE 6 7:30 pm Firefly Coffeehouse, 114 N Main Street, Oregon
• FRIDAY JUNE 12 7:30 pm Watertower Chop House, 109 W Main Street, Sun Prairie
• SATURDAY JUNE 13 7:30 pm I’m Board game store, 6917 University Avenue, Middleton
• SUNDAY JUNE 14 3:00 pm Tapit/New Works, 1957 Winnebago Street, Madison

Ticket Prices: $10 suggested contribution

Call 608-617-4917 or visit http://www.leftofleftcenter.com/tickets for reservations or more information.

Friday, May 29-Saturday, June 20

Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays at 8pm

Tickets $11, available at Brown Paper Tickets

Advance Tickets for Held can be purchased at Brown Paper Tickets

Work the Act

By Danielle Dresden

Directed by Francisco Torres

Catskill humor meets performance art in this new comedy by Danielle Dresden for TAPIT/new works Ensemble Theater's 30th anniversary season. After a series of comic mishaps get them fired from a gig at the Holiday Inn in Beaver Falls, Pennsylvania, the Rolling Bag Players try to pass themselves off as an avant-garde theater troupe. Their new show -- "Take the Spanish Civil War... Please!" -- is a raging success, but the players are dissatisfied. They jump at the chance to return to their honest, baggy pants roots and perform as themselves once again.

Produced by TAPIT/new works Ensemble Theater at TAPIT/new works Studio Theater, 1957 Winnebago Street, Madison

Performances: May 28 - June 7, 2015

Performance Times: 
Thursday, May 28, Friday, May 29, Saturday, May 30, 7:30 PM
Friday, June 5, Saturday, June 6 (both at 7:30 PM)
Sunday, June 7, 3:00 PM, Performance and Gala Reception following with food.

Ticket Prices: $20 General, $17 Students. June 7th Gala, $30 General.

Call 608-244-2938 for reservations or more information.

Broom Street Theater is proud to announce the creation of a new feature of our theater experience: Broom St. Late Night!

Broom Street Late Night is a new series of shows that take place after our main stage shows. These shows are a bit darker, have a sharp edge and a visceral experience. The criteria given to the writers for each show is that they are one hour or less, have a small cast and little or no set. These are limited runs and will only have 6 to 8 performances.

Are you ready to ROCK!

Are We Delicious? Musical Rebellion will CRUSH IT

Five righteous Madison rock gods join five outrageous Madison singer/performers for a rock-solid hour of giving it to THE MAN

Can you HANDLE IT?

Where: High Noon Saloon, 701 E. Washington, Madison
When: May 12 & 13 @ 7:00 pm
Admission: $12, cash only
Reservations: http://www.growingshows.com/reservations/
Running time: one hour with intermission

Are We Delicious? is an ensemble of Madison writer/performers/musicians who conceive, write, rehearse and perform an original one-hour show of short plays *and musicals* in a single week. Everyone writes, everyone acts, *everyone sings, everyone plays* and no one can rest until *the upholstered prison of our oppressive society is a SMOKING RUIN*.

Death Of A Salesman

By Arthur Miller

Directed by Christopher Wolter

“Death Of A Salesman” shares a rightful place on the top rung of the canon of classic American plays and this new production of the play seeks to re-imagine Arthur Miller's unflinching look into the heart of the American Dream for a contemporary audience. 

Willy Loman's journey is a painful one, that of an aging salesman and father at the end of his road. Plagued by his own mind and his inability to reconcile his bitter reality with his lofty dreams, Willy struggles against all odds to hold onto dignity in a world which has cast him aside. 

In an era supposedly free from ideology, "Death of a Salesman" is more necessary than ever. It is a play about a dream, a dream which we experience as our greatest freedom, yet for the vast majority of us is nothing but a bitter burden, and ultimately, a cruel lie.

Produced by Strollers Theatre at Bartell Theatre's Evjue Stage, 113 E. Mifflin St., Madison

Performances: April 24 - May 16, 2015

Performance Times: 
Friday, April 24, 2015 - 7:30pm
Saturday, April 25, 2015 - 7:30pm
Sunday, April 26, 2015 - 2:00pm
Thursday, April 30, 2015 - 7:30pm
Friday, May 1, 2015 - 7:30pm
Saturday, May 2, 2015 - 7:30pm
Wednesday, May 6, 7:30 PM
Thursday, May 7, 2015 - 7:30pm
Friday, May 8, 2015 - 7:30pm
Saturday, May 9, 2015 - 7:30pm
Thursday, May 14, 2015 - 7:30pm
Friday, May 15, 2015 - 7:30pm
Saturday, May 16, 2015 - 2:00pm

Ticket Prices: $20 General, $15 Strollers Members/Students/Seniors

Call 608-661-9696 for reservations or more information.

The Nails

By Doug Reed

Directed by Rob Matsushita

Broom Street Theater is proud to present The Nails, written by Doug Reed ("The Lamentable Tragedie Of Scott Walker", "Nottingham!") and directed by Rob Matsushita ("900", "Civil"). This is a fast-paced corporate fairy tale about love, business, and dismemberment. Also, talking animals.

One cold night, Kella Winter is tossed from her home into a frozen wasteland with only a toy penguin named Xylorc to keep her company. Desperate for shelter, she takes a job with The Corporation - a company entirely composed of talking animals. She fights to keep her mind and body together among evil walruses, sentient copiers, and a vengeful Alexander Graham Bell from an alternate dimension.

It's Lewis Carroll with a desk job. It's Aesop on acid.

The cast of The Nails features a number of longtime Madison stage favorites including Caitlin Robb as Kella Winter, Damon Butler as Xylorc - her stuffed penguin, and Sam White as Ralph Waldo - the walrus from Accounts Receivable who makes their lives miserable.

Rounding out The Corporation are Kate Boomsma as Sandra the Swan, Andrew Miller-Rhoads as John The Badger, and Emmaline Friederichs as Ernestine the Sphinx. Meanshile, in an alternate dimension, Donnonvan Moen as Blackbeard and Benjamin Otto as Alexander Graham Bell work out the problems in their complicated relationship.

Produced by Broom Street Theater at Broom Street Theater, 1119 Williamson Street, Madison

Performances: April 24 - May 16, 2015

Performance Times: 
Friday, April 24, 2015 @ 8:00PM
Saturday, April, 25 2015 @ 8:00PM
Thursday, April, 25 2015 @ 8:00PM
Friday, May 1, 2015 @ 8:00PM
Saturday, May 2, 2015 @ 8:00PM
Thursday, May 7, 2015 @ 8:00PM
Friday, May 8, 2015 @ 8:00PM
Saturday, May 9, 2015 @ 8:00PM
Thursday, May 14, 2015 @ 8:00PM
Friday, May 15, 2015 @ 8:00PM
Saturday, May 16, 2015 @ 8:00PM

Ticket Prices: $11, $9 discounted tickets

Call 608-244-8338 for reservations or more information.

My Life is a Sitcom

By Rob Matsushita, Karen Saari, Sunny Schomaker

Directed by Karen Saari

People were asked to enter submissions telling why some aspect of their life may just be great sitcom fodder. Writers chose the top two premises and have written original sitcoms based on them. Composer Andrew Rohn (VO5, Walmartopia) is composing theme songs for each.

The two shows within "My Life is a Sitcom" are “Palmer.” written by Rob Matsushita, about a local cabbie who plays in the Madison Gay Hockey Association. The second is “Band for Life,” by Karen Saari and Sunny Schomaker, about local disco band VO5 as the members juggle the music scene, families and day jobs.

For more information, Karen Saari via e-mail at brokendartplayers@yahoo.com. 

Produced by Broken Dart Players at Brink Lounge, 701 East Washington Suite 105, Madison

Performances: April 16-17, 2015

Performance Times: 
Thu. April 16 @ 7:30 p.m.
Fri. April 17 @ 7:30 p.m.

Ticket Prices: $15 at the door. Or purchase online at thebrinklounge.com

Call for reservations or more information.

Deliciously Queer

Directed by Suzan Kurry, William Bolz, Dana Pellebon & Sean Langenecker

StageQ, Inc., partners with the creators of Are We Delicious? to present Deliciously Queer, a show written and staged in a mere 7 days. Deliciously Queer will feature pieces inspired by two compelling subjects in the queer experience: Coming Out and Commitment. Who doesn’t have a coming out story or an opinion about commitments in the queer community? Join us to see how those stories come together, unfold, and simply make you laugh.

Delicious Ensemble Theatre is a simple, exhilarating ensemble theatre project where a small group of daredevil writers and performers conceive, write, rehearse, and perform an original one-hour show of short plays in a single week. Everyone writes, everyone acts, and no one can rest until the final curtain!

Produced by StageQ at Bartell Theatre's Evjue Stage, 113 E. Mifflin St., Madison

Performances: March 22 - April 11, 2015

Performance Times: TBA

Ticket Prices: TBA

Call TBA for reservations or more information.

Bare: A Pop Musical

By Jon Hartmere, Jr and Damon Intrabartolo

Directed by Steve Noll

"Bare" is a rock musical with a book by Jon Hartmere, Jr. and Damon Intrabartolo, lyrics by Hartmere and music by Intrabartolo. The story focuses on two gay high school students and their struggles at their private, Catholic boarding school. The show has been compared to Spring Awakening or Rent with a modern rock score and dealing with issues such as sexual identity, drug abuse, teen suicide and self-image.

Produced by Mercury Players Theater at Bartell Theater's Drury Stage, 113 E. Mifflin St. , Madison

Performances: March 20 - April 7, 2015

Performance Times: Thu: 7:30pm, Fri & Sat 8pm, Sun (March 29) 2pm

Ticket Prices: $20.

Call 608-661-9696 for reservations or more information.