GCP Girl

The world in 1905

2012-02-07T14:23:00.006-05:00

"Intimate Apparel" takes place in New York City in 1905, a time when the world was rapidly changing. Here's a look at some of the important events going on around the world at the time we meet Esther and her friends:

The "Bloody Sunday" massacre in St. Petersburg, Russia, triggers the Russian Revolution of 1905, which led to the establishment of the Duma (an elected assembly) and the country's first constitution.
German theoretical physicist Albert Einstein began his "Miracle Year," publishing papers that laid the foundation for quantum physics, introduced the special theory of relativity, explained Brownian motion, and established mass-energy equivalence.
The Cullinan Diamond, the world's largest diamond at 3106 carats, was discovered in South Africa.
Theodore Roosevelt was President of the United States.
Norway achieved its independence from Sweden.
King Edward VII officially recognized the title "Prime Minister of the United Kingdom."
Novocaine was introduced.
The first automobile exceeded 100 mph at Daytona Beach.
Eleanor and Franklin D. Roosevelt were married in New York.
The Niagara Movement was founded by W.E.B. DuBois.
"Variety" was first published.
Notable births in 1905: Christian Dior; Maria Von Trapp; Henry Fonda; Jean-Paul Sartre; Myrna Loy; Greta Garbo.

See for yourself what life was like for Esther and her friends in "Intimate Apparel," but hurry - this is the last week!

xo xo GCP Girl

"Intimate Apparel" cast profile: Shetiquea Davis

2012-02-02T11:15:00.006-05:00

Shetiquea Davis plays Mrs. Dickson, who gives Esther plenty of advice in "Intimate Apparel"!

GCP Girl: Tell me a bit about your character.
SD: My character is Mrs. Dickson. In a story of women who are constrained by societal expectations and standards, Mrs. Dickson is the only woman in this story who is rather free in the way that she lives her life from an external view, although her constraints come more from a place within as she fulfills her mother's hopes for her life. Mrs. Dickson is jovial and possesses wisdom, confidence and a to-the-point attitude.

GCP Girl: Tell me about some of your previous shows.
SD: This is only the third production I've performed in. My acting experience started in a one-act play titled "At the Punch Bowl" in the role of Idamae. It was directed by Natasha Lee, a local zumba instructor, and marked her directing debut. That experience is priceless to me as it gave me the encouragement to continue acting, which has both enriched my life and propelled personal growth.

GCP Girl: Why did you audition for "Intimate Apparel"?
SD: Well, I had never worked with Rhonda Wilson, our director, before, and I was seeing her everywhere around Gainesville when I would attend different events/shows in the theatre community. It seemed that she was affiliated with every theatre venue in town, and I knew she had done many good shows here, so I welcomed the opportunity to get to work with her. As auditions approached, I read the script to familiarize myself with the play and thought it was a wonderful story that people could see themselves in and/or others they knew. I personally identified with the lead character in a lot of ways. So all of that shaped my desire to audition.

GCP Girl: What is your favorite scene in the show?
SD: Wow, there are several moments I like in the show. When Mr. Marks asks Esther to have tea with him, that scene always makes me smile. The way they smile at each other and the sweetness of it. When he allows her to fix the smoking jacket made of Japanese silk on him, that's a touching moment. I also actually like to see George go in and steal the smoking jacket while Esther is out and he's on his way over to Mayme's. Not that I' m for infidelity, LOL -- I hate George -- but I love the way that Troy McCray has embodied the character as I watch him stop in the mirror on his way out with the cigarette in his mouth, check his look in the mirror and then strut off like a pimp. :-) Great job, Troy!

GCP Girl: What has been your favorite part of this experience so far?
SD: This is a play by a talented African-American playwright, and I am honored to be playing a role in one of her productions. It's been great meeting new people. I pretty much had never worked with anyone involved in this project before, and all have been great to work with. Madeleine Escarne and I have some tennis coming up after the show. (I'll try to go easy on you, Madeleine. :-) It's been a huge time commitment, and has meant giving up certain joyful pastimes of mine for now, but seeing a great production come together that exceeds people's expectations and that they truly enjoy is so worth it. I'd do it all over again!

GCP Girl: What have you learned during the show about life in 1905?
SD: None of the issues that we deal with in relationships are new -- or old, for that matter. Some of the same things that are portrayed in this play based in 1905 are still very relevant today. And I learned what a smoking jacket was. Men actually wore them to smoke in so that the smell wouldn't get into their regular clothing. We need to bring this one back. :-)

GCP Girl: What do you hope audiences take away from "Intimate Apparel"?
SD: Well, you can never say what an audience will take away from a production, as it depends on what they bring to it, but I hope that they will identify with some of the characters and perhaps see that we all as humans share the same emotions, experiences and obstacles regardless of race, age, social status, etc. None of those things make you or anyone else exempt.

GCP Girl: What plays or musicals would you like to see GCP produce in an upcoming season?
SD: "The Color Purple."

GCP Girl: Tell me something you'd like everyone to know!
SD: Despite what some may tell you, I'm actually shy. But don't get my timing wrong, though! :-) Enjoy the show!

Thanks, Shetiquea! She's the quite the philosopher, isn't she -- not unlike her character! Come see for yourself!

xo xo GCP Girl

"Intimate Apparel" cast profile: Amanda Edwards

2012-02-01T11:22:00.003-05:00

Amanda Edwards makes her stage debut as Esther, the heroine of "Intimate Apparel"!

GCP Girl: Tell me a bit about your character.
AE: My character's name is Esther Mills. She's a hard-working, good-natured intimate apparels seamstress who has big dreams of owning an elegant beauty parlor for black women.

GCP Girl: Tell me about some of your previous shows.
AE: I consider "Intimate Apparel" my first show as an actress. I did some smaller type of showcases in college. My theater experience is comprised mainly of working backstage as a techie doing lights, props, carpentry, and costumes for the different shows at the Phillips Center for the Performing Arts.

GCP Girl: Why did you audition for "Intimate Apparel"?
AE: I auditioned for "Intimate Apparel" because the story sounded fascinating. It's set in 1905, but so many of the issues and themes of this show are timeless.

GCP Girl: What is your favorite scene in the show?
AE: I honestly enjoy all of the scenes in this show and I look forward to performing them all each night. I can't pick just one.

GCP Girl: What has been your favorite part of this experience so far?
AE: The entire experience has been incredible but the highlight has been getting to know and work with so many talented creatives. The cast and crew of this show is AMAZING! They've all been so helpful and hard-working. It's really been great.

GCP Girl: What have you learned during the show about life in 1905?
AE: Getting dressed as a woman in 1905 was NO small feat.

GCP Girl: What do you hope audiences take away from "Intimate Apparel"?
AE: I hope audiences walk out of "Intimate Apparel" recognizing that a hope for love is a universal experience that transcends race, gender, and class.

GCP Girl: What plays or musicals would you like to see GCP produce in an upcoming season?
AE: I'd love to see "Cat on a Hot Tin Roof" and "Caroline or Change."

GCP Girl: Tell me something you'd like everyone to know!
AE: I've had an absolute blast working with everyone involved with "Intimate Apparel" and thank everyone who has come out to support this show.

Thanks, Amanda! "Intimate Apparel" begins its second week tonight, so drop by the box office and reserve your tickets!

xo xo GCP Girl

"Thoroughly Modern Millie" cast list!

2012-01-31T12:53:00.002-05:00

Congrats to the cast of "Thoroughly Modern Millie"!

Millie Dillmount - Sissy Bell
Jimmy Smith - Paul Rye
Ruth/Stenographer/Ensemble - Mia Frattino
Alice/Stenographer/Swing - Katie Hensley
Gloria/Stenographer/Ensemble - Katie Crozier-Theis
Rita/Stenographer/Ensemble - Claudia Garcia
Cora/Stenographer/Ensemble - Sam Feldman
Lucille/Stenographer/Ensemble - Liz Mignacca
Ethel Peas/Stenographer - Aubrey Wise
Mrs. Meers - Sam Fundenberg
Dorothy Brown - Amy Smith
Ching Ho - Zach Kidd
Bun Foo - Erik Ramos
Mrs. Flannery - Gerri Sterne
Trevor Graydon - Bryan Faux
Muzzy Van Hossmere - Susan Christophy
Muzzy’s Boys/Tap/Ensemble - Malik Grady, Thomas Sanders, Mike Tremaine, Steven Griffin Gershwin /Dexter/Ensemble - Drew Carroll
Policeman/Rodney/Ensemble - Nick May
Kenneth/Dishwasher/Ensemble - Noah Jones
Daphne/Ensemble - Krsnaa Fitch
Mathilde/Ensemble - Patricia Kee

A note from director Dan Christophy:
"I want to thank all who auditioned. You made it hard to make decisions, as you were all great. If you were not cast, I want to ask you to consider working on the show in another capacity. It is a great way to get in and start to work in the theater, as well as be involved in a great show."

Thanks, Dan, and congrats again to everyone!

xo xo GCP Girl

"Intimate Apparel" cast profile: Madeleine Escarne

2012-01-27T08:45:00.003-05:00

Madeleine Escarne's Mayme tells it like it is in "Intimate Apparel"!

GCP Girl: Tell me your name, your character's name, and a bit about your character.
ME: I play Mayme, a “good” friend to Esther; she is trying to find her place and validation in life, even with a not-so-glamorous profession.

GCP Girl: Tell me about some of your previous shows.
ME: I was in "To Kill a Mockingbird" and "The Wiz" at the GCP, and "The Commedia Tales of…King Arthur" and "Sinbad" at The Thomas Center Theater for Young Audiences.

GCP Girl: Why did you audition for "Intimate Apparel"?
ME: First, because Ms. Rhonda Wilson was directing…but mainly, the play is written by one of my favorite playwrights, Lynn Nottage. It is a human story that deals with real life issues that could just as easily be portrayed in today as it was in 1905.

GCP Girl: What is your favorite scene in the show?
ME: When Mrs. Dickson explains to Esther how her mother did not want her to be a “…washer woman if it killed her.” That monologue is so intriguing and Ms. Shetiquea Davis plays the part so well.

GCP Girl: What has been your favorite part of this experience so far?
ME: Getting to play someone who is so far from me in real life. The growth and experience in learning that part (with much appreciated help and direction from Rhonda, Shontae and Steven) has been priceless for my development in theater as a whole.

GCP Girl: What have you learned during the show about life in 1905?
ME: Life is so cyclical…you think a person may have had it easier or harder in a certain time period, but there truly is nothing new under the sun; it just may manifest in a different way.

GCP Girl: What do you hope audiences take away from "Intimate Apparel"?
ME: I hope that they see that this is not just an African-American story, but a true human story. That no matter the make-up of the cast, the importance is to focus on what is being told and support should be shown in the same way as with other plays.

GCP Girl: What plays or musicals would you like to see GCP produce in an upcoming season? ME: A few more plays by Lynn Nottage, and other poignant playwrights. Maybe something adapted from my favorite Haitian-American novelist, Edwidge Danticat.

GCP Girl: Tell me something you'd like everyone to know!
ME: Every opportunity I have to come before people through theater, I truly count it as an honor and blessing from God to be able to share the talent that He has given me.

Thanks, Madeleine! Opening night is tonight - do you have your tickets yet?

xo xo GCP Girl

Spotlight on Lynn Nottage

2012-01-25T14:18:00.003-05:00

The lives of African-American women are the central themes of the work of Pulitzer Prize winner Lynn Nottage, author of "Intimate Apparel," opening this weekend at the Vam York Theater.

Nottage was born in Brooklyn in 1964, and is a graduate of Brown University and the Yale School of Drama. The West Coast premiere of one of her first major works, "Crumbs From the Table of Joy," won two NAACP Awards. From 1993 to 2003, she also penned "Poof," ""Mud, River, Stone," "Por'Knockers," and "Las Meninas."

"Intimate Apparel," her best-known play, was produced off-Broadway in 2004, starring Oscar nominee Viola Davis ("Doubt," "The Help"). The play tells the story of Esther, a 35-year-old African-American seamstress in 1905 New York City, who strikes up a long-distance romance with a man who is working on the Panama Canal.

Nottage wrote a companion piece to "Intimate Apparel," the OBIE Award-winning "Fabulation,or the Re-Education of Undine," which is set 100 years later. She went on to produce the 2009 Pulitzer Prize for Drama winner, "Ruined," about the plight of Congolese women surviving civil war.

Nottage received a Guggenheim Fellowship in 2005, and a MacArthur Genius Grant in 2007.

"Intimate Apparel" previews tomorrow night. Tickets are $5 and are available only at the box office, beginning at 7 p.m. Get there early to get your seats!!

Resolve to get involved!

2012-01-09T10:37:00.005-05:00

Did you resolve to do something new this year? Maybe you want to finally audition for a GCP show, or become more involved in theatre, but you don't know how to get started. I can help you check that resolution off your list!

Auditioning for shows is a great way to become known at the GCP. I know, it's scary to stand up in front of people you don't know and act and/or sing, but here's a secret: almost everyone, including the most experienced regulars, gets nervous at auditions. Thankfully, here's another secret: everyone wants you to do well. Directors want to be spoiled for choice!! It helps lessen the anxiety if you are well prepared for the audition - check out my audition tips, and these from the GCP website.

If you are cast in a small role or a chorus part, please do not see it as a reflection on you or your talent. Just being cast at all is a pretty big vote of confidence, especially since most shows have many more auditioners than parts. If you are not cast after your first audition, do not give up. The show might not be a good fit for you, or the production staff might have to make some tough decisions. Try again for the next show!

Here's what some of our actors had to say to people thinking of auditioning:
"Take a deep breath and show up. Sometimes all you need a is a break. I auditioned for several shows at GCP without getting in before I got into "Anything Goes" and now "Rent." However disheartening it is not to make it, I never gave up trying and it paid off in an incomprehensible way."
"Just do it. Everyone is very supportive and just as nervous as anyone else to get up there. It's worth it to be a part of theater and a show. It becomes your family for 3-4 months and beyond. So just do it. You don't have anything to lose."
"Please do so -- I personally will do everything I can to make sure you feel welcome and come back. The creative and collaborative effort of talented people working together to make art is a life-affirming continuous action that draws people together and which you really can't find anywhere else."

So what if you don't want to perform? There are lots of other ways to get involved at GCP. We always need stage crew, sound and lighting technicians, musicians, costumers, ticket takers and ushers, and handy people to build and paint sets! It really does take a village to bring our productions to life. Leave us a message on our Facebook page to let us know you are interested!

I hope one of your resolutions this year is to see more shows. GCP has a string of great shows left this season, starting in January with "Intimate Apparel," a drama about an African-American seamstress in 1905 New York (Viola Davis originated this role off-Broadway). "Thoroughly Modern Millie," the 2002 Tony Award winner for Best Musical and the show that made Sutton Foster a star, is coming up in March, followed by "Agnes of God," a drama that turned into an Oscar-nominated film starring Jane Fonda, Anne Bancroft and Meg Tilly. The season ender is none other than the megahit 2003 Best Musical "Hairspray"!

Join us at the GCP and help us make 2012 the best year yet!

xo xo GCP Girl

"A Christmas Story" cast profile: Victoria Gregory

2011-12-16T15:57:00.004-05:00

Victoria Gregory tries to keep her class in line as Miss Shields in "A Christmas Story"!

GCP Girl: Tell me a bit about your character.
VG: I play the part of Miss Shields, the voice of Schwartz's mother, and the Wicked Witch of the West. Miss Shields is Ralphie and his classmates' teacher. She can tell when her students are up to no good!

GCP Girl: Tell me about some of your previous shows.
VG: I took a break from acting for about 9 years, and last year found my passion again, at Acrosstown Repertory Theatre. I played Gina and Intellectual Girl in "Play it Again, Sam!" My favorite past roles have been Michael in "Peter Pan" in a high school production at Oak Hall, Mother Nature (the narrator) in "A Journey to Narnia," and Hermia in "A Midsummer Night's Dream" at The Hippodrome's Summer Spectacular program.

GCP Girl: Why did you audition for "A Christmas Story"?
VG: I've grown up loving and watching the movie, and always tune into the 24-hour broadcast of "A Christmas Story" on Thanksgiving Day. Growing up in Gainesville, and being in the GCP audience since I was little girl, it's been a dream to be in a show here. This was my 5th audition at GCP, and after auditioning for a couple musicals in the past, I'm definitely much better suited for straight shows! "Rock Band" singing is the only place I can seem to (sort of) carry a tune. =-)

GCP Girl: What is your favorite scene in the show?
VG: The ending. You'll just have to see it to know what I'm talking about!

GCP Girl: What has been your favorite part of this experience so far?
VG: I've finally gotten to see how GCP works behind the scenes! I've always been curious how GCP puts such a professional show together. From the lighting, costumes, sets, meeting all the cast and crew- whose names and faces I recognized from previous productions- it's all been incredible. It takes a lot of hard-working people to put on a show here, and everyone has been very welcoming and sweet to me. It's been lovely to share the experience with my boyfriend, Adam, who plays Ralph as an adult, too. I'm thrilled to be a part of "A Christmas Story."

GCP Girl: Finish this sentence: "I know it's the holiday season when..."
VG: ...I smell cinnamon brooms in the air.

GCP Girl: What is your favorite winter holiday tradition?
VG: Baking and decorating Christmas cookies, making mulled cider and wine, watching holiday movies, like "The Bishop's Wife," "White Christmas," and of course, "A Christmas Story."

GCP Girl: In "A Christmas Story," Ralphie tells us about his most memorable Christmas. Tell me about your most memorable holiday.
VG: The best Christmas present I ever received was last year from Adam. It was a ring and bracelet. Sapphire (my birthstone) and diamond set in white gold. I had never had a ring that actually fit my tiny size 4 fingers! It was our first Christmas together, and Adam was leaving to go to New York to study acting for several months. He knew it would help me to have something to hold on to while he was away. I wear them everyday.

GCP Girl: What are you looking forward to the most this holiday season?
VG: Making a gingerbread house! I haven't built one since elementary school, and I love the idea of having a craft project and dessert in one!

GCP Girl: Tell me something you'd like everyone to know!
VG: I received the role in "A Christmas Story" two weeks before opening night. Unfortunately, Madeleine, the actress originally cast, couldn't continue with the production for medical reasons. I rejoiced getting my first role at GCP, but I'm very sad it's under those circumstances. I only hope to do the role justice for Madeleine, Thomas, and Betty.

Thanks, Victoria! "A Christmas Story" is drawing to a close -- see it this weekend!

xo xo GCP Girl

"A Christmas Story" cast profile: Nadia Cox

2011-12-14T15:07:00.004-05:00

Nadia Cox finds all the good hiding spots as Ralphie's picky little brother, Randy, in "A Christmas Story"!

GCP Girl: Tell me a bit about your character.
NC: My character is Randy, who is Ralphie's kid brother.

GCP Girl: Tell me about some of your previous shows.
NC: This is my first "big" show. I have performed at school and at church. :0)

GCP Girl: Why did you audition for "A Christmas Story"?
NC: I auditioned because I love the movie and have always wanted to be in a play at a real theater.

GCP Girl: What is your favorite scene in the show?
NC: My favorite scenes are Santaland at the store and the revealing of the "leg lamp"!

GCP Girl: What has been your favorite part of this experience so far?
NC: I have loved getting to know the cast and crew and I LOVE wearing a costume!

GCP Girl: Finish this sentence: "I know it's the holiday season when..."
NC: ...when the Christmas songs show up on the radio on KTK. Yes! Even before Thanksgiving!

GCP Girl: What is your favorite winter holiday tradition?
NC: I love to put up the tree with my family.

GCP Girl: In "A Christmas Story," Ralphie tells us about his most memorable Christmas. Tell me about your most memorable holiday.
NC: I have to say that the Christmas I got my first American Girl doll was just the best!

GCP Girl: What are you looking forward to the most this holiday season?
NC: I am really hoping for some cold weather!

GCP Girl: Tell me something you'd like everyone to know!
NC: The set of A Christmas Story looks AWESOME!

Thanks, Nadia! This is the last week to catch "A Christmas Story" before the end of the run. This Sunday is already sold out, so be sure to call the box office and get your tickets now!

xo xo GCP Girl

"A Christmas Story" cast profile: Laurel Ring

2011-12-09T09:24:00.003-05:00

Laurel Ring disapproves of the Old Man's taste in lighting fixtures as Mother in "A Christmas Story"!

GCP Girl: Tell me a bit about your character.
LR: I play Ralphie's mother. She's a bit different from the mom in the movie - this mom is smart and keeps the Parker house running smoothly, if such a thing is possible.

GCP Girl: Tell me about some of your previous shows.
LR: Most recently, I was an usherette (among other things) in "The Producers" at the GCP. Before that, I played Olivia in "Shakespeare in Hollywood," and was in the chorus of "Hello, Dolly!," "Hot Mikado" and "The Music Man" at the GCP.

GCP Girl: Why did you audition for "A Christmas Story"?
LR: The movie is a holiday favorite in my family, and I thought it would be fun to be part of the show.

GCP Girl: What is your favorite scene in the show?
LR: The jungle scene is entertaining (watch out for those herds of pythons!). I also enjoy the leg lamp scene and Ralphie's gift from Aunt Clara.

GCP Girl: What has been your favorite part of this experience so far?
LR: My favorite part is always the performances. There's nothing like a live audience!

GCP Girl: Finish this sentence: "I know it's the holiday season when..."
LR: I hear certain songs. Some favorites are the Muppets' "12 Days of Christmas," Alvin and the Chipmunks' "Christmas Don't Be Late," Wham!'s "Last Christmas," and Band Aid's "Do They Know It's Christmas?" (which tells you when I grew up!).

GCP Girl: What is your favorite winter holiday tradition?
LR: I like it all -- Christmas songs, baking, parties, and shopping are all great! I especially enjoy drawing my own designs on Christmas card envelopes.

GCP Girl: In "A Christmas Story," Ralphie tells us about his most memorable Christmas. Tell me about your most memorable holiday.
LR: My most memorable Christmas gift was one of the first American Girl dolls when I was eleven. I still have my Samantha (made in Germany when AG was a small, private business named Pleasant Company). AG is something I have in common with my onstage "son," Nadia!

GCP Girl: What are you looking forward to the most this holiday season?
LR: Having some time off to spend with my family.

GCP Girl: Tell me something you'd like everyone to know!
LR: I don't eat oatmeal. It's in my contract.

Thanks, Laurel! Only three more chances to see the show before it's gone!

xo xo GCP Girl

"A Christmas Story" cast profile: Aaron Goll

2011-12-08T08:42:00.002-05:00

Aaron Goll instigates mischief and fun as Schwartz in "A Christmas Story"!

GCP Girl: Tell me a bit about your character.
AG: I play Schwartz. He is the best friend of Ralphie.

GCP Girl: Tell me about some of your previous shows.
AG: I have been in school and community theater productions.

GCP Girl: Why did you audition for "A Christmas Story"?
AG: I love to act and wanted to find something here in Gainesville.

GCP Girl: What is your favorite scene in the show?
AG: The jungle scene.

GCP Girl: What has been your favorite part of this experience so far?
AG: Getting to know everyone.

GCP Girl: Finish this sentence: "I know it's the holiday season when..."
AG: ...I put up our tree.

GCP Girl: What is your favorite winter holiday tradition?
AG: Getting and giving presents.

GCP Girl: What are you looking forward to the most this holiday season?
AG: My grandparents coming down to see us.

GCP Girl: Tell me something you'd like everyone to know!
AG: I am new to Gainesville.

Thanks, Aaron! Okay, everyone - I triple-dog-dare you not to miss this show!!!

xo xo GCP Girl

"A Christmas Story" cast profile: Noah Cox

2011-12-07T13:18:00.003-05:00

Noah Cox has a run of bad luck as Flick in "A Christmas Story"!

GCP Girl: Tell me a bit about your character.
NC: I play Flick, who is one of Ralphie's two best friends and a favorite victim of Scut Farkus.

GCP Girl: Tell me about some of your previous shows.
NC: This year I was in "To Kill a Mockingbird," and the year before I was in "The Crucible," both at my school, P.K. Yonge.

GCP Girl: Why did you audition for "A Christmas Story"?
NC: I auditioned because I love the story and because I've always wanted to stick my tongue to a lamppost!

GCP Girl: What is your favorite scene in the show?
NC: I love the scene where I stick my tongue to the lamppost, and when Randy stuffs his face in his oatmeal!

GCP Girl: What has been your favorite part of this experience so far?
NC: Getting to know all the cast and crew has been a great experience for me, and just being a part of the show.

GCP Girl: Finish this sentence: "I know it's the holiday season when..."
NC: I know it's the holiday season when red and green are everywhere and when we put up the tree.

GCP Girl: What is your favorite winter holiday tradition?
NC: I like it when all the family in town comes and sits around talking and when we have the big Christmas dinner with my mom's homemade cookies.

GCP Girl: In "A Christmas Story," Ralphie tells us about his most memorable Christmas. Tell me about your most memorable holiday.
NC: My most memorable Christmas was when I got an aquarium complete with lights, colored gravel, and all things necessary to keep my fish!

GCP Girl: What are you looking forward to the most this holiday season?
NC: For me, I want a Christmas just like the ones I've had for all these years.

GCP Girl: Tell me something you'd like everyone to know!
NC: GCP ROCKS!

Thanks, Noah! "A Christmas Story" returns to the Vam York stage for the third week. Shows are beginning to fill up - get your tickets now!

xo xo GCP Girl
(Photo courtesy of Gainesville Sun)

"A Christmas Story" cast profile: Caroline Boudreaux

2011-11-30T13:07:00.004-05:00

Caroline Boudreaux terrorizes the neighborhood as Scut Farkus in "A Christmas Story"!

GCP Girl: Tell me a bit about your character.
CB: I’m playing the part of Scut Farkus/Black Bart. Scut Farkus is the girl bully.

GCP Girl: Tell me about some of your previous shows.
CB: This is my second play at GCP. The first play that I performed at GCP was "Oliver!" I have also been in multiple plays at High Springs Community Theatre, such as "Hansel and Gretel," "Sleeping Beauty" and "Beauty and the Beast." I was in several productions at St. Patrick’s Interparish School.

GCP Girl: Why did you audition for "A Christmas Story"?
CB: This is one of my favorite Christmas stories of all time.

GCP Girl: What is your favorite scene in the show?
CB: My favorite scene in the show is when the Dad receives the leg lamp. It’s hilarious how Mr. Ed and Ms. Laurel play this scene.

GCP Girl: What has been your favorite part of this experience so far?
CB: My favorite experience has been getting to know the other cast members. And of course, I like to use the country twang in the fantasy scene!

GCP Girl: Finish this sentence: "I know it's the holiday season when..."
CB: My dad lights the warm and cozy fireplace.

GCP Girl: What is your favorite winter holiday tradition?
CB: Watching "It’s a Wonderful Life" every year on Christmas with my dad.

GCP Girl: In "A Christmas Story," Ralphie tells us about his most memorable Christmas. Tell me about your most memorable holiday.
CB: One year for Christmas, all I wanted was a dog. I thought it wasn’t going to happen because my mom told us that they shed too much. Then came Christmas morning and an adorable Australian Shepherd was there. That was a special Christmas for my family.

GCP Girl: What are you looking forward to the most this holiday season?
CB: Definitely hanging out with family and friends.

GCP Girl: Tell me something you'd like everyone to know!
CB: Hope you enjoy the show!

Thanks, Caroline! "A Christmas Story" begins its second week tonight at the Vam York!

xo xo GCP Girl

"Intimate Apparel" cast list!

2011-11-29T13:00:00.004-05:00

Congrats to the new cast of "Intimate Apparel"!

Esther: Amanda Edwards
Mayme: Madeleine Escarne
George: Troy McCray
Mrs. Van Buren: Kim Huebner
Mrs. Dickson: Shetiquea Davis
Mr. Marks: Nicholas May

Director: Rhonda Wilson
Assistant Directors: Shontae Khaleel White, Steven Butler

"A Christmas Story" cast profile: Celia Shankman

2011-11-23T13:03:00.004-05:00

Celia Shankman makes her GCP debut as class genius Helen Weathers in "A Christmas Story," previewing tonight at the Vam York!

GCP Girl: Tell me a bit about your character.
CS: I play Helen Weathers, the smartest girl Ralphie knows in his class.

GCP Girl: Tell me about some of your previous shows.
CS: For the Alachua Children's Theater, I played Sebastian in "The Little Mermaid," Sam in "Ransom of Red Chief," Honor in "Beauty is a Beast," and Sam from "Emperor's New Clothes."

GCP Girl: Why did you audition for "A Christmas Story"?
CS: I thought it would be fun and a good experience.

GCP Girl: What is your favorite scene in the show?
CS: My favorite scene in the show is when Flick puts his tongue on the pole. It is the funniest!

GCP Girl: What has been your favorite part of this experience so far?
CS: Learning acting etiquette.

GCP Girl: Finish this sentence: "I know it's the holiday season when..."
CS: I know it's the holiday season when people start putting up lights in the neighborhood.

GCP Girl: What is your favorite winter holiday tradition?
CS: My favorite winter holiday traditions are decorating the tree for Christmas and lighting candles on the Menorah for Chanukah.

GCP Girl: In "A Christmas Story," Ralphie tells us about his most memorable Christmas. Tell me about your most memorable holiday.
CS: When we moved back to Florida three years ago, we moved in on Christmas Eve. We had no tree or any decorations because we had driven all day from New Jersey. It was about 9 at night when my mom and dad were looking in the new attic to put some boxes away when all of a sudden, we found a Christmas tree with lights. It was a miracle. We had a tree.

GCP Girl: What are you looking forward to the most this holiday season?
CS: Spending time with my family and my grandmom.

GCP Girl: Tell me something you'd like everyone to know!
CS: That I am funny and energetic and love to make you laugh.

Thanks, Celia! Tickets are $5 when the doors open tonight at 7 p.m. - don't miss out!

xo xo GCP Girl

"Intimate Apparel" auditions are this weekend!

2011-11-23T08:53:00.002-05:00

Auditions for the period drama "Intimate Apparel" are this Sunday and Monday, Nov. 27-28. Director Rhonda Wilson offers some insights into the show and what she is looking for in potential cast members!

GCP Girl: Why did you want to direct "Intimate Apparel"?
RW: As an African-American woman, I felt it was important to showcase a work that reflected women of color as real people with real lives and emotional stories during a time when they were treated as second-class citizens. I think the story speaks to everyone regardless of ethnicity. I am so glad the playwright used an African-American female as the heroine.

GCP Girl: Tell me a bit about your vision for the production.
RW: My goal is to direct the show in such a way that each of the six distinct characters transcend the 100 years, so that their needs and desires are reflected in people you know, or maybe even yourself. I intend to respect the author's intent and remain true to the beauty of her words.

GCP Girl: Is there anything specific you are looking for in the actors who audition? If someone wants to impress you, what should he/she do?
RW: When I'm reading a script, especially a period drama, I visualize what I think the characters would look or sound like. Sometimes they don't show up to audition. I would love to see people who are committed to the story being told. They should have at least researched the time and place of the story and have a basic understanding of the plot.

GCP Girl: Is there anything else you'd like to add?

RW: This show is not well-known and doesn't have a blockbuster movie to its credit. It is simply a piece of theatre that needs to be seen and told. The show is definitely a character study and a vehicle to delve into the most "intimate" feelings of a diverse group of people. The show is a microcosm of the turn-of-the century society. We have seen this period of time on stage before, but rarely from the perspective of an African-American woman working hard to pursue her dream. If you can't audition, at least come see the show.

Thanks, Rhonda! Break a leg at auditions, everyone!

Spotlight on Jean Shepherd

2011-11-22T11:20:00.005-05:00

"A Christmas Story" opens this week at the GCP's Vam York Theater. The 1983 movie that became a holiday classic was penned by American author, humorist and radio personality Jean Shepherd (1921-1999).
Like the hero of "A Christmas Story," Shepherd grew up in an Indiana town in the 1930s. He got his start in radio in Cincinnati in 1948 and moved to New York City in 1956. Before long, he was entertaining fans with stories, poetry and elaborate hoaxes, such as him encouraging listeners to ask booksellers for a copy of "I, Libertine" -- a book that did not exist -- to place it on the bestseller lists, which at that time were partly based on demand as well as sales. (Shepherd later wrote the book.) His narrative style inspired many young announcers, notably Garrison Keillor.
Although he talked about many topics in his almost 50-year radio career, Shepherd's most popular stories were those about ordinary American life. Some of these were published in Playboy magazine, and some were incorporated into books, such as "In God We Trust, All Others Pay Cash," "Wanda Hickey's Night of Golden Memories: and Other Disasters," "The Ferrari in the Bedroom," and "A Fistful of Fig Newtons."
Shepherd co-wrote and narrated the movie "A Christmas Story," drawing on previous stories and his own childhood experiences. He also appears in a cameo role in the movie as the man in the department store who directs Ralphie to the end of the Santa line. Some interesting movie trivia:

Shepherd's middle name is Parker, the family's last name in "A Christmas Story." He grew up on Cleveland Street (in Hammond, Ind.) and attended Warren G. Harding School, just like Ralphie.
Shepherd's younger brother was also named Randall.
The director, Bob Clark, became interested in Shepherd's work after hearing him read the story "Flick's Tongue" on the radio in 1968.
Clark has said in interviews that actor Jack Nicholson was originally considered for the part of The Old Man.
Peter Billingsley, who played Ralphie, was already well known as "Messy Marvin" from the Hershey's Syrup commercials.
A sequel, "My Summer Story," was filmed in 1994.

Thanks to 24-hour marathons and a heavy dose of holiday nostalgia, "A Christmas Story" is a beloved classic and a holiday tradition for many. Come spend an evening this holiday season with the Parkers at the GCP!

Source material: Jean Shepherd (Wikipedia); A Christmas Story (Wikipedia); A Christmas Story House

Jan Cohen on "The Exonerated"!

2011-11-04T10:48:00.006-04:00

Jan Cohen directs "The Exonerated," which premieres Monday, November 7 at the Vam York!

GCP Girl: Tell me about the show.

JC: The show tells the true story, largely in their own words, of six people convicted of murder, put on death row and then released because they are proven to be, in fact, innocent. The four other actors portray all the other characters -- police, judges, lawyers, family, the real bad guy. Their words are also mainly true, from police depositions, court transcripts, etc.

GCP Girl: Why did you want to direct "The Exonerated"?
JC: Kristin Mercer asked if I would put myself forward as director in front of the play select committee. She and I share a taste in strong but emotionally true dramas!

GCP Girl: What are the challenges of directing a show like this one?
JC: There are 10 people and 11 chairs, very little to be done in the way of movement, so the key is to focus on the stories and keep the audience involved. The script really helps do that--it is very strong, but also has humor and lots of faith!

GCP Girl: Why should people come see the show?
JC: People should come because the three themes really resonate -- it could happen to anyone -- when most people do, in fact, do some essentially little stupid things in their lives, most don't end up on death row because of those things. Smart people come to opposite conclusions when presented with the same evidence. So, the play is not political per se, but it does ask the viewer to question how they view others and what preconceptions they might bring to the process of judgment. Most importantly, there is a tremendous capacity in the human spirit, even under the worst circumstances, for love and not hate, enormous faith in a higher power and the wish to simply live decent, simple lives.

GCP Girl: Which person's story in the show affects you most?
JC: I am moved by them all, but perhaps most by the story of David, who was planning to be a minister before he was arrested at the age of 18 for a crime he had absolutely nothing to do with, and is so clearly damaged by the experience of prison and yet "he sings" at the end--you have to watch it to see that moment.

Thanks, Jan! "The Exonerated" is showing Monday, Nov. 7 at 7 p.m. at the Vam York; Tuesday, Nov. 8 at 7 p.m. at Santa Fe Building E (Old Auditorium); and Wednesday, Nov. 9 at 7 p.m. at The Social Justice Forum at the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Gainesville. Proceeds from donations will go to The Exonerated Fund. There will be talkback sessions with the cast members after each performance. Further details are available on Facebook. Don't miss it!

xo xo GCP Girl

"Rent" cast profile: Zach Kidd

2011-10-14T10:37:00.003-04:00

Zach Kidd acquires an addiction to musical theatre in the ensemble of "Rent"!

GCP Girl: Tell me a bit about your character.
ZK: I play "The Man" in the ensemble. My character is the drug dealer...very sleezy and extremely creepy.

GCP Girl: Tell me about some of your previous shows.
ZK: My only other show so far has been the GHS production of "The Wizard of Oz" this past February, where I played the Tin Man.

GCP Girl: Why did you audition for "Rent"?
ZK: I auditioned because I had seen the movie and I loved it. I also knew a lot of the people auditioning and that always makes things more fun. :)

GCP Girl: What is your favorite musical number in the show?
ZK: Definitely "What You Own."

GCP Girl: What has been your favorite part of this experience so far?
ZK: Being able to connect and make friends with another group of people and have a great time and a great show!

GCP Girl: Why should people see "Rent"?
ZK: People should see "Rent" because it really does show some extreme diversity and that love knows no bounds, and that our time is limited, so love as long as you can. That is what I hope audiences can take away from the show... also, the music is incredible!!! :)

GCP Girl: Which musicals would you like to see GCP produce in coming seasons?
ZK: Honestly, I am new to the theatre world, and I don't know that many shows...so I really just don't know...but I would love to be a part of anything that they would have me in! :)

GCP Girl: What would you tell someone who is thinking of auditioning for a show at GCP?
ZK: Definitely go for it! They are an amazing community and it is one of the greatest experiences you could ever have!!!

GCP Girl: Tell me something you'd like everyone to know!
ZK: This was one of the greatest experiences that I have ever had! I owe it all to my wonderful cast and crew, who have become some of the greatest friends anyone could ever ask for, and to our outstanding directors Erin, Leannis, and Kristin! Thank you guys for all you do, it wouldn't have been the same without you!!!

Thanks, Zach! This is the last weekend for "Rent" - have you seen it? If not, what are you waiting for?!!! Check back later today for my special tribute to the show!

xo xo GCP Girl

A farewell to "Rent"!

2011-10-14T08:14:00.005-04:00

"Rent" closes this weekend at the Vam York, so as a farewell, I have written my own little "One Song Glory" to commemorate the occasion!

To the tune of "Camptown Races" (with many, many apologies to Stephen Foster):

"Rent" has come and had its day
Doodah, doodah
Everyone in Gainesville saw this play
On the doodah stage

The shows were sold-out nights
Steven Butler danced in tights
Kelley and Sissy had their fights
On the doodah stage

Peter filmed his video
Doodah, doodah
No thanks to Damario
On the doodah stage

Kevin got to cry
Ashleigh nearly died
Phil found glory on a western ride
On the doodah stage

Now Jerry is a happy man
Doodah, doodah
He's paying all the bills he can
For the doodah stage

This show has been a blast
Too soon it's in the past
Congrats and cheers to the talented cast
On the doodah stage!

Ta-da! You know you love it. ;-)

xo xo GCP Girl

"Rent" cast profile: Peter Romberg

2011-10-12T13:02:00.004-04:00

Peter Romberg plays Mark, a New Yorker documenting a year in the life of his friends, in "Rent"!

GCP Girl: Tell me a bit about your character.
PR: I play Mark, a bohemian independent filmmaker who struggles with selling out.

GCP Girl: Tell me about some of your previous shows.
PR: I was in "Anything Goes" as a sailor and in "The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee" as Leaf Coneybear.

GCP Girl: Why did you audition for "Rent"?
PR: "Rent" holds a very special place for me, and I was deliberating whether or not to try out, then I realized that I just had to go for it. No day but today.

GCP Girl: What is your favorite musical number in the show?
PR: "What You Own."

GCP Girl: What has been your favorite part of this experience so far?
PR: The emotional struggle every night onstage.

GCP Girl: Why should people see "Rent"?
PR: It is an amazing show that affects everyone in the audience. Not many people get to participate in a show like this in the audience, and it truly is an opportunity everyone should have, to feel emotionally connected with the characters and to be a part of such a moving show.

GCP Girl: Which musicals would you like to see GCP produce in coming seasons?
PR: My favorite musical, "The Last 5 Years," but it will never happen because it is for two people only. Maybe as a one night special?

GCP Girl: What would you tell someone who is thinking of auditioning for a show at GCP?
PR: Just do it. No day but today. It’s a blast and we are a welcoming family.

GCP Girl: Tell me something you'd like everyone to know!
PR: This show freaking rocks!

Thanks, Peter! If you haven't seen "Rent," this is the last week -- get your tickets before they sell out!

xo xo GCP Girl

"Rent" cast profile: Scott West

2011-10-10T15:29:00.003-04:00

Scott "Scooter" West trades in his medieval gear for '90s New York City attire as an ensemble member in "Rent"!

GCP Girl: Tell me a bit about your character.
SW: I am in the ensemble; the one named character I play is Steve of the Support Group. Steve sings the solo for "Will I," so I see him as a relatively normal person, 9-5 job, apartment-and-a-dog kind of guy. I imagine he contracted HIV from one of the less publicized ways, likely a blood transfusion.

GCP Girl: Tell me about some of your previous shows.
SW: I was in and directed a number of shows at the end of high school and early college. The experiences that made the most impact on me were playing Elliot, a lead in a little-known musical called "Journey to Friday"... sort of an angst-y, modern version of Grease, and Charlie Brown in "You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown." As a senior in high school, I was proud to be able to take a drama class mostly made up of students from a cancelled shop class and get them interested in theater by directing the monologue-driven play "Juvie," a topic that was unfortunately all too familiar to the students at my school. Since "Charlie Brown," I have focused on being a member, and eventually a leader, in the Theatrical Combat troupe Thieves' Guilde, Inc. I am currently the group's VP as well as Lead Medic and one of the Sword Trainers. We perform annually at the Hoggetowne Medieval Faire and at other smaller venues around Florida.

GCP Girl: Why did you audition for "Rent"?
SW: The primary reason for my long absence from theater since early college is time. I couldn’t fit rehearsals for a stage show around classes, spending time with my family, and my commitments with the Thieves’ Guilde. During this time, I made a short list of shows that I would just make time to participate in. "Rent" is at or near the top of that list. I was thrilled to be cast and given the chance to solo for this production.

GCP Girl: What is your favorite musical number in the show?
SW: It is difficult to choose a favorite musical number with such a music-driven show. I’d have to say “What You Own” toward the end of Act 2.

GCP Girl: What has been your favorite part of this experience so far?
SW: I would have to say that just being on a stage under lights with other talented vocalists has just been a wonderful experience.

GCP Girl: Why should people see "Rent"?
SW: First of all, 'Rent" is just packed with consistently good, interesting songs and a realistic story that doesn’t pull any punches. Larson takes a group of social misfits and forces you to relate to them and feel their joys, pains and the pervasive fear that existed in mid-90’s New York City. What you will take away would be nothing less than an increased understanding of the human condition.

GCP Girl: Which musicals would you like to see GCP produce in coming seasons?
SW: Of course everyone’s pipe dream would be "Les Miserables," so keep watching for the rights to become available! Other than that, there are some fantastic musicals GCP has not done in a long time: "Jesus Christ Superstar," "1776" or "Into the Woods" would be on my short list.

GCP Girl: What would you tell someone who is thinking of auditioning for a show at GCP?
SW: I think that doing a show anywhere is always a worthwhile experience, but GCP is easily the most professional experience you can ask for in a volunteer community theater in this area.

GCP Girl: Tell me something you'd like everyone to know!
SW: I want everyone to know that "Rent" is being produced for you by a group of talented, genuine individuals who either already loved, or have grown to love, this show. The standards we set for ourselves are extremely high for each individual show and I think that shines through in our performances, so don’t think that a Wednesday night show will be any less energetic and fun than a Friday night show.

Thanks, Scott! Congrats to "Rent" on a packed weekend - let's send the show off this week in style!

xo xo GCP Girl

"Rent" cast profile: Ashleigh Beatty

2011-10-07T11:31:00.002-04:00

Ashleigh Beatty plays Mimi, who is not your typical girl next door...

GCP Girl: Tell me a bit about your character.
AB: I'm playing Mimi, a streetwise girl who's pretty down on her luck financially. She's an "exotic dancer" or stripper, whatever you want to call it. Mimi has a tough exterior but underneath she has a soft side and longs for friendship and love.

GCP Girl: Tell me about some of your previous shows.
AB: I found my passion for theater about 10 years ago at GCP when I was in "Annie". Since then, I've done many shows at various theaters, but I've mostly been involved with my high school's theater at PK Yonge. In the new GCP theater I did "Singin' in the Rain" and now I'm very excited to be doing "Rent." :)

GCP Girl: Why did you audition for "Rent"?
AB: I auditioned for "Rent" because it is different from any other show I've done and I thought it would be a great experience. I also really loved all the music; I knew that those were songs that I could hear over and over again without getting sick of them.

GCP Girl: What is your favorite musical number in the show?
AB: I like all of them! It's hard to narrow it down. I really like doing "La Vie Boheme" a lot because it's such a high energy song and it's fun to perform, but I also really love "Glory" even though I'm not in it because it's such a pretty song. I always creep in the wings to listen to it.

GCP Girl: What has been your favorite part of this experience so far?
AB: Getting the opportunity to play Mimi has been amazing and I'm not even lying or being fake at all when I say that I've enjoyed every part of it, even when people make fun of me.

GCP Girl: Why should people see "Rent"?
AB: I think that people should see “Rent” because it’s a show unlike any other. It has amazing music and a powerful storyline; a lot of times with musicals they have one or the other. This show is very different for the GCP, and I think that if people are open minded and willing to go out of their comfort zones a bit, they will fall in love with “Rent.” I hope that the audiences leave feeling entertained and moved, and with all the songs stuck in their heads.

GCP Girl: What musicals would you like to see GCP produce in coming seasons?
AB: I personally would love to see "Little Shop of Horrors" or “Sweeney Todd.” I think that those would be a lot of fun to be in and to watch.

GCP Girl: What would you tell someone who is thinking of auditioning for a show at GCP?
AB: To just go for it. I almost didn't audition for "Rent" because I thought there was no way that I would get in, and now I'm soooooo happy I did!

GCP Girl: Tell me something you'd like everyone to know!
AB: I don’t actually do heroin, or strip, or break into random guys' houses when I’m bored. I do however have the best ass below 14th Street....or so I’ve been told...

Thanks, Ashleigh! "Rent" is still going, but some shows are selling out, so get your tickets ASAP!

xo xo GCP Girl

"Rent" cast profile: Kevin Anderson

2011-10-05T11:35:00.004-04:00

Kevin Anderson plays anarchist professor Tom Collins in "Rent" at the GCP!

GCP Girl: Tell me a bit about your character.
KA: I play Tom Collins. He is a professor who is fired for his theory on AIDS. He's also friends with Mark and Roger. Collins is a bit older then his friends, a very grounded person but a big teddy bear -- you know, like your favorite uncle who lets you get off the hook when you've done something bad. He falls in love with Angel. Their relationship is quite perfect; you could say it is love at first sight.

GCP Girl: Tell me about some of your previous shows.
KA: I've been acting since freshman year and feel in love with the art and the people in this art. My first show at the GCP was "The Wiz." I played the scarecrow. I was also in "Anything Goes" and "Soul of Broadway." I've done a lot of stuff at GHS, like "The Wizard of Oz" and "You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown."

GCP Girl: Why did you audition for "Rent"?
KA: "Rent" holds a special place in my heart. My uncle loved the show and I grew up listening to the "Rent" soundtrack. It totally amazed me that GCP would have even thought about "Rent." It was something I was so afraid of, but with the help my friends and uncle, I auditioned.

GCP Girl: What is your favorite musical number in the show?
KA: Christmas Bells!! it's full of energy and color, it captures New York on stage, and it's pretty awesome.

GCP Girl: What has been your favorite part of this experience so far?
KA: Rehearsals are a blast. We always have a good time learning the songs and blocking. This is a great and funny cast; we have a ton of new faces in the cast, which is so awesome!

GCP Girl: Why should people see "Rent"?
KA: People should come see "Rent" because it's such a beautiful story of how we should live life and not worry about tomorrow, and that we should love each other. I feel like people will walk away from the theater not thinking of the things our society frowns on, but the message that Mr. Larson beautifully wrote. This is not your ordinary Gainesville Community Playhouse musical -- it's a real story telling the lives of real people, and I think people will walk away stunned on the message that it holds, like I do every night.

GCP Girl: Which musical would you like to see GCP produce in coming seasons?
KA: "Rent" has opened so many doors for future productions. I would really like to see "La Cage Aux Folles," "A Chorus Line" or "Cats." ;)

GCP Girl: What would you tell someone who is thinking of auditioning for a show at GCP?
KA: DO IT. Trust me, the GCP is such a cool place, and we have fun while putting on such awesome shows.

GCP Girl: Tell me something you'd like everyone to know!
KA: Well......COME SEE "RENT"! please :)

Thanks, Kevin! "Rent" resumes its run tonight at the Vam York! Only two more weeks and tickets are selling fast!

xo xo GCP Girl

"A Christmas Story" cast list!

2011-10-03T09:13:00.002-04:00

Congratulations to the new cast of "A Christmas Story"!

Ralph Parker (as adult): Adam Lishawa

Ralphie Parker (child): Gary Wells

Mother: Laurel Ring

The Old Man: Ed Hunter

Randy: Nadia Cox/Xavier Ayala-Vermont

Miss Shields: Madeleine Escarne

Flick: Aaron Goll

Schwartz: Noah Cox

Esther Jane: Kelly Belanger/Marissa Lloyd

Helen Weathers: Celia Shankman
Scut Farkas: Caroline Bourdreaux

"Rent" cast profile: Gerri Sterne

2011-09-30T14:22:00.002-04:00

Gerri Sterne is having the time of her life as an ensemble member of "Rent"!

GCP Girl: Tell me a bit about your character.
GS: I am in the ensemble of Rent! I play a handful of characters, including Mrs. Jefferson (Joanne's Mom), person in Life Support, a police officer, and a homeless person.

GCP Girl: Tell me about some of your previous shows.
GS: I was in "Anything Goes" at GCP during the summer, which was the first time I had done any performing since high school. In high school, we did some fun shows, including "All Shook Up," "Little Shop of Horrors," "Once Upon a Mattress," and "Sweet Charity."

GCP Girl: Why did you audition for "Rent"?
GS: "Rent" is absolutely one of my favorite shows. I saw it recently at UCF and was blown away. I remember walking out the theater saying, "Wow, that show is incredible, I will never have the opportunity to be in a show like that." Obviously, I should learn to never say never, because here I am doing the seemingly impossible.

GCP Girl: What is your favorite musical number in the show?
GS: I absolutely LOVE doing "La Vie Boheme" and "Rent" because it is just so much fun and everyone gets really into it. I also really love singing the finale all clustered together watching the film. I hope I am not only one in the cast who has noticed how that number has evolved throughout the rehearsal process. I remember Erin giving us the direction to "pretend like we like each other." And now it is so effortless. I also love listening to and watching "Take Me or Leave Me" and "What You Own."

GCP Girl: What has been your favorite part of this experience so far?
GS: I don't think I can pick just one. Going to rehearsal was the absolute highlight of my day, and I think most of the cast felt the same way. The excitement over getting the opportunity to do such a unique show has been palpable since the very first read-through, and even possibly since auditions.

GCP Girl: Why should people see "Rent"?
GS: People should see "Rent" if they have a open mind and love the combination of musical theatre and rock music. It is definitely emotional and thought-provoking, even abstract at times, but I think it is a show that everyone (well, maybe not young kids) can find something in to relate to. I hope that audiences see beyond the surface of the show; there are some really moving messages and metaphors throughout. If we just make one person feel something, then in my opinion the show is a success.

GCP Girl: Which musicals would you like to see GCP produce in coming seasons?
GS: I think doing "Rent" has opened a lot of doors for GCP. I would like to see more shows like this is the future. Everyone loves a fun, comedic musical, but it is nice to change it up sometimes and do something more emotive.

GCP Girl: What would you tell someone who is thinking of auditioning for a show at GCP?
GS: Take a deep breath and show up. Sometimes all you need a is a break. I auditioned for several shows at GCP without getting in before I got into "Anything Goes" and now "Rent." However disheartening it is not to make it, I never gave up trying and it paid off in an incomprehensible way.

GCP Girl: Tell me something you'd like everyone to know!
GS: Getting involved with the GCP is probably the best decision I have ever made.

Aw, thanks, Gerri! Now, everyone at home, shut down the computer and go see "Rent"!

xo xo GCP Girl

"Rent" cast profile: Steven Butler

2011-09-29T15:14:00.004-04:00

Steven Butler returns to the GCP stage as the effervescent Angel in "Rent"!

GCP Girl: Tell me a bit about your character.
SB: I play the role of Angel, who is a drag queen street percussionist living with AIDS. Angel is a creative, fun-loving, flamboyant character to all those who are lost, hurting, and in need of compassion.

GCP Girl: Tell me about some of your previous shows.
SB: I was last seen on the GCP stage as Moonface Martin in "Anything Goes." Some of my other shows include, "Joseph," "Baby," "La Cage Aux Folles," "The Pajama Game," "Cabaret" and "Emma la Dolce," just to name a few.

GCP Girl: Why did you audition for "Rent"?
SB: Would you believe me if I told you that someone dared me? LOL

GCP Girl: What is your favorite musical number in the show?
SB: Actually I have two favorite musical numbers: "Seasons of Love" and "Without You."

GCP Girl: What has been your favorite part of this experience so far?
SB: My favorite part of this experience so far has been the joys and challenges of doing a rock opera, and the poignant part has been remembering I witnessed such a turbulent time in our society and the loss of many friends to AIDS.

GCP Girl: Why should people see "Rent"?
SB: I would hope people would be able to recognize the various themes in the show that exist within every human life on this planet...the quest for love, connection, and understanding in the face of adversity.

GCP Girl: Which musicals would you like to see GCP produce in coming seasons?
SB: "Best Little Whorehouse in Texas," "Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat" and "Sweet Charity."

GCP Girl: What would you tell someone who is thinking of auditioning for a show at GCP?
SB: If you get cast in a GCP production, be prepared to give it your all and be committed because in the end, everyone wins.

GCP Girl: Tell me something you'd like everyone to know!
SB: Once this show gets going and my family finds out the role I'm playing, I should be expecting a call from my mother saying, "What are you doing?" "Really?" LOL

Thanks, Steven! "Rent" continues tonight at the Vam York!

xo xo GCP Girl

"Rent" gets a perfect 10!

2011-09-29T08:49:00.003-04:00

Congrats to the cast and crew of "Rent," which was called "perfection" in the Gainesville Sun review!

"Rent" cast profile: Stephen Griffin

2011-09-28T09:05:00.003-04:00

Stephen Griffin makes his stage debut in the "Rent" ensemble!

GCP Girl: Tell me about some of your previous shows.
SG: This is my first show of any kind. I’m the new guy.

GCP Girl: Why did you audition for "Rent"?
SG: I’ve always wanted to be in a musical. It’s been a dream for a while, so I started looking around for things to audition for. My dear friend Anthony Minzie inspired me to Live The Dream.

GCP Girl: What is your favorite musical number in the show?
SG: My favorite song of the show is "I’ll Cover You (Reprise)." Collins is amazing and it’s a very moving song. "Seasons of Love" is also a lot of fun.

GCP Girl: What has been your favorite part of this experience so far?
SG: Every part of this experience has been amazing. From auditions to practices and stage preparations, I’ve loved it all. Everyone involved has been a pleasure to meet and I have learned many new things. I never thought I would ever be able to be part of something this amazing.

GCP Girl: Why should people see "Rent"?
SG: We are blessed with an abundance of talent right here in our community. The cast, crew and directors are as good as you will find in a professional performance. "Rent" shows you the importance of living every day to its fullest and not taking a single day, moment, or friendship for granted.

GCP Girl: Which musicals would you like to see GCP produce in coming seasons?
SG: I would love to see "Chicago" and "The Music Man."

GCP Girl: What would you tell someone who is thinking of auditioning for a show at GCP?
SG: DO IT! This has been one of the greatest experiences of my life. The audition process alone was worth it. You get to meet a great group and hear some killer voices.

GCP Girl: Tell me something you'd like everyone to know!
SG: I’d like to thank everyone involved with the GCP. I have learned so much and been blessed in many ways over the last few months at the theater. You are all wonderful and I thank you for giving me the chance to live my dream. I am Blessed.

Thanks, Stephen! "Rent" picks back up tonight -- do you have your tickets yet?

xo xo GCP Girl

"Rent" cast profile: Kelley Addis

2011-09-23T15:25:00.002-04:00

Kelley Addis belts it out as the long-suffering Joanne in "Rent," opening tonight at the Vam York Theater!

GCP Girl: Tell me a bit about your character.
KA: My character's name is Joanne Jefferson. Joanne is a Harvard graduate and practices corporate law in NYC. She is a very logical and "by the rules" kind of person...you know, the kind that likes to highlight books just for fun, or make lists organizing her book collection just so she has this on file. She is also in love with Maureen, which is scary to Joanne and where a lot of her conflict in the show comes from. Maureen and Joanne are an "opposites attract" situation in every sense of the phrase...can't live with her, can't live without her.

GCP Girl: Tell me about some of your previous shows.
KA: I was an actor in Chicago for seven years and have a plethora of shows under my belt. Everything from musicals, children's theater, plays, movies, TV...the list goes on and on. The first show I did at GCP was "Forum," where I played Domina. "Rent" will be my fifth show at the GCP.

GCP Girl: Why did you audition for "Rent"?
KA: "Rent" has been on my "Theater Bucket List" for a while now. I originally saw "Rent" on Broadway in 1997 with most of the original cast (minus Daphne Ruben-Vega), and we even did a talk back session with Anthony Rapp, Adam Pascal and Jesse L. Martin. Since then, I absolutely fell in love with the show. I would listen to the CD every single night and would sing it in the car, much to the chagrin of my mom. I am so excited to finally have an opportunity to be a part of the experience.

GCP Girl: What is your favorite musical number in the show?
KA: There are so many; almost all the songs are my favorite. I like performing "Tango: Maureen" and "Take Me or Leave Me." Those are a lot of fun. "La Vie Boheme" is a lot of energy and I get goosebumps while dancing. I love watching "What You Own," "Santa Fe," "Today 4 U"....I can't pick just one!!!

GCP Girl: What has been your favorite part of this experience so far?
KA: This cast got bonded pretty quickly. You can definitely tell that everyone loves this show and wants it to be the best it can be. I've never been a part of a show to where everyone has just been SO excited throughout the entire process to perform a show and make it perfect.

GCP Girl: Why should people see "Rent"?
KA: "Rent" is not your grandma's musical, kids. It is an entirely different breed and I think will be appealing to younger (meaning college-age) audiences. However, I think Jonathan Larson did something so unique by putting in such an important message within a rock n' roll setting. That message is to live each day to its fullest. Enjoy the people around you and savor it, because you never know when they will be gone. Dealing with HIV is a big part of this show and which I think a lot of people can relate to. Even if you don't know someone with HIV, you probably know someone with cancer or with a debilitating disease or even in the military to where you don't know when they leave if you'll see them again. This musical talks about dealing with life in the best way possible, and that's what I hope audiences leave with...hope and love.

GCP Girl: Which musicals would you like to see GCP produce in coming seasons?
KA: "Sweeney Todd" and Erin's favorite, "CHICAGO"!!! (Pushing for ya Erin ;) )

GCP Girl: What would you tell someone who is thinking of auditioning for a show at GCP?
KA: Just do it. Everyone is very supportive and just as nervous as anyone else to get up there. It's worth it to be a part of theater and a show. It becomes your family for 3-4 months and beyond. So just do it. You don't have anything to lose.

GCP Girl: Tell me something you'd like everyone to know!
KA: I'm not really a lesbian, I just play one on stage...and sometimes backstage...I'm method.

Thanks, Kelley! Everyone, get yourselves over to the GCP and see this show!

xo xo GCP Girl

"Rent" cast profile: Giovanni Barrio

2011-09-22T14:32:00.002-04:00

Giovanni Barrio returns to the GCP to perform in the ensemble of "Rent," previewing tonight at the Vam York Theater!

GCP Girl: Tell me a bit about your character.
GB: I play a homeless person in the ensemble, and Gordon, a New Yorker who's living with AIDS and having a hard time accepting it.

GCP Girl: Tell me about some of your previous shows.
GB: In March, I played Mitch Mahoney in "The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee" here at GCP. That was my first GCP show! Before then, I played Judge Thatcher in "The Adventures of Tom Sawyer," Uncle Billy in "It's a Wonderful Life," and Edward Rutledge in "1776," all at the High Springs Community Theater.

GCP Girl: Why did you audition for "Rent"?
GB: For me, "Rent" is one of those shows that is just so enjoyable to sing. I can remember jamming out to the soundtrack when I was in high school, and I just couldn't pass up the opportunity to do it on stage with an amazing cast.

GCP Girl: What is your favorite musical number in the show?
GB: I'd have to say it's "Without You." The song really speaks to me about how you can be grateful for life, and still feel a deep sadness over the ones you love that are no longer with you. It's a beautiful song and it always leaves me with a bittersweet feeling.

GCP Girl: What has been your favorite part of this experience so far?
GB: My favorite part has been learning the choreography for "La Vie Boheme." It's the first real dance number I've ever been in and it was the biggest challenge for me (I can't dance to save my life), but it's so much fun when it all comes together. I can't wait for the audience to see it.

GCP Girl: Why should people see "Rent"?
GB: For me, the music is what makes "Rent" a must-see. It's fun, full of energy, and it influenced a lot of shows that came after it. I hope audiences go home feeling that they've just had a really good time, and also that they resonate with the show's invitation to cherish the time you have with the ones you love.

GCP Girl: Which musicals would you like to see GCP produce in coming seasons?
GB: I would love it if GCP did "Next to Normal," "The Light in the Piazza," "Parade," or anything by Stephen Sondheim, like "Sweeney Todd" or "Pacific Overtures."

GCP Girl: What would you tell someone who is thinking of auditioning for a show at GCP?
GB: I'd say go for it. Don't worry if you're nervous about auditioning, because everybody else is too. Also, being in a show is a big commitment and a lot of work, but it's definitely worth it.

GCP Girl: Tell me something you'd like everyone to know!
GB: If you're the kind of person who doesn't like musicals because of all the tap dancing, pretty sets and singing nuns, come see "Rent"! Believe me, you'll be glad you did. It's completely different.

Thanks, Giovanni! The box office opens at 7 p.m. tonight, so get there early because it's first-come, first-served!

xo xo GCP Girl

"Rent" preview articles!

2011-09-22T08:20:00.005-04:00

Check out the preview articles in the Gainesville Sun and the Alligator! Will I see you at preview tonight?

Spotlight on Jonathan Larson

2011-09-21T12:55:00.005-04:00

Jonathan Larson, the playwright and composer of "Rent," lived in poverty and waited tables in Manhattan during his seven-year struggle to bring the musical to the stage, only to die of an aortic dissection the day before the show was to preview off-Broadway. "Rent" opens this week at the GCP's Vam York Theater.
Early on, Larson attracted the attention of Stephen Sondheim, who advised him to continue composing. During the 1980s, he wrote "Saved - An Immoral Musical on the Moral Majority" and "Superbia," both of which won awards. In 1991, he wrote a rock monologue that eventually became "tick...tick...BOOM!", which contained an homage to his mentor, Sondheim, and was widely produced after Larson's death.
"Rent" is based on the Puccini opera, "La Boheme," and also draws on many aspects of Larson's own life. The setting is moved from 19th century Paris to the East Village in New York City in the 1990s; the power bill woes and Mark's relationship with Maureen are Larson's experiences. Tuberculosis is replaced by HIV. The musical realized his ambition to make musical theatre more socially and personally relevant to young people.
"Rent" opened at the Nederlander Theater on Broadway in April 1996 and ran until September 2008 -- the ninth longest run in Broadway history. The show was made into a movie musical in 2005. Larson was posthumously awarded a Pulitzer Prize, three Tony Awards (including Best Musical), three Drama Desk Awards and three Obie Awards.
"Rent," along with Larson's own story, reminds us we have "no day but today" to live and to love those around us.

[sources: "Jonathan Larson" (Wikipedia); "Rent" (Wikipedia); "Jonathan Larson" (PBS)]

"A Christmas Story" auditions are this weekend!

2011-09-19T22:53:00.005-04:00

Auditions for the GCP production of "A Christmas Story" are Sunday, September 25 and Monday, September 26 at the Vam York Theater. The director's staff stopped by with a few comments about auditions for the classic holiday tale!

GCP Girl: What made you want to direct "A Christmas Story"?
Staff: We are very excited to direct this show because not only is it a Christmas classic, but it's a true piece of Americana. People of various countries have different traditions surrounding Christmas, and we believe "A Christmas Story" offers a truly American take on the holiday.

GCP Girl: Tell me a bit about your vision for the production.
Staff: We want this to be a play families look forward to attending, are excited to come to together, bond over, and leave feeling a little more affirmed in the spirit of the season. We want parents to hold the magic of their children's joy just a little tighter...make a memory!

GCP Girl: Is there anything specific you are looking for in the children and adults who audition? If someone wants to impress you, what should he/she do?
Staff: Remember how Christmas made you feel, or makes you feel. Carry that excitement and enthusiasm into your audition -- that's the most important factor.

GCP Girl: Is there anything else you'd like to add?
Staff: We'd just like to add that we are really looking forward to this whole journey. We're excited to see our auditoners, we're excited to assemble our cast and get started on what we think is going to be a fun and very worthwhile production. Everyone -- BREAK A LEG!

That's all I have! Check the Facebook event page for more details. See you Sunday!

xo xo GCP Girl

2011 Golden Apple Awards

2011-08-08T10:45:00.004-04:00

Congrats to all the winners of the 2011 Golden Apple Awards! It's been a great year, and 2011-12 looks like it will be even better!

Minor Actor - David Aiken, "The Trip to Bountiful"
Minor Actress - Brittany Steinke, "The Trip to Bountiful"
Sound - Douglas Maxwell and Dick Maxwell, "The Trip to Bountiful"
Properties - Erin Kleim, "The Trip to Bountiful"
Supporting Actor in a Musical - Kenneth Foote, "Anything Goes"
Supporting Actress in a Musical - Kelley Addis, "The Wiz"
Lighting - Thomas Muhn, "The Trip to Bountiful"
Set - Jerry Brewington and Doug Morris, "The Murder Room"
Supporting Actor in a Play - Dan Christophy, "The Trip to Bountiful"
Supporting Actress in a Play - Jan Cohen, "The Murder Room"
Costumes - Rhonda Wilson, "Anything Goes"
Star Award - Doug Morris
GCP Scholarship - Devin D'Andrea
Actor in a Play - Henry Wihnyk, "45 Seconds From Broadway"
Actress in a Play - Jennie Stringfellow, "The Trip to Bountiful"
Choreography - Susan Christophy and Matthew Teoli, "Anything Goes"
Actress in a Musical - Leannis Maxwell, "Anything Goes"
Actor in a Musical - Thomas Sanders, "Anything Goes"
Artistic Design - "Anything Goes"
Technical Execution - "45 Seconds From Broadway"
President's Cup - Betty Keena
Lifetime Achievement Award - Lettie Germany
Best Play - "The Trip to Bountiful"
Best Musical - "Anything Goes"

A tribute to "Anything Goes"!

2011-07-29T10:06:00.003-04:00

"Anything Goes" closes this Sunday, and so in tribute, I took the liberty of rewriting the title song for the occasion.

With apologies to Cole Porter...

Sold out shows
Are a rare commodity
But for a show that’s so witty
It’s not such an oddity
Friends will go
Along on their separate ways
But there’s always the cast party
And the memories will stay…

We’ll miss all the music rollicking
Tap dancing, fun and frolicking
There were no lows
Anything Goes

Cole Porter was the height of fashion
And could ignite the passion
Of average Joes
Anything Goes

The show had great lyric songs
And great belting songs
And great lovers' songs
And great tapping songs
And great humming songs
And great whistling songs
That everybody knows

There will be another musical
In six weeks, it’s not unusual
So no more woes –
Anything Goes…
Anything Goes!

Congrats to the cast and crew of "Anything Goes" on a great run!

xo xo GCP Girl

"Anything Goes" cast profile: Kelley Addis

2011-07-27T16:05:00.003-04:00

Kelley Addis takes her character on a memorable journey in "Anything Goes"!

GCP Girl: Tell me a bit about your character.
KA: I am a part of the chorus. My character name is Prudence Hearst. She's a well-to-do socialite, and her family has sent her and her sister off on a cruise to have them see Europe (it's actually to get them out of the house to re-work her and her sister, Constance, out of the will, but they don't know that). She starts off pretty uptight but starts to see how much fun the Angels and Reno are having and wants that life. Prudence gets to a point to where she's having so much fun, she overindulges and well...you can kind of guess the rest.

GCP Girl: Tell me about some of your previous shows.
KA: "Anything Goes" is the fourth show I have done at the GCP. I was previously seen in "The Wiz" as Evilene, "The Producers" as Hold Me, Touch Me/Shirley Markowitz/Tap Dancing Nazi, and "Forum" as Domina. This past spring I was also in "The Commedia Tales of King Arthur" for Thomas Center Theater for Young Audiences as Columbine/Guenevere/Sir Kay. Before all of this, I lived in Chicago, where I worked professionally as an actor. I performed in "Tony N' Tina's Wedding" as Tina/Connie/Donna/Sr. Terry/Loretta/DJ Monty (we switched characters every night), "Guys and Dolls" as Miss Adelaide, a couple of murder mysteries, improv shows, children's shows, shows where you hike out in the woods, even a couple of movies and TV, most notably as an extra for "Spiderman II" and "The Break Up," and a detective on an episode of "Animal Witness" for Animal Planet.

GCP Girl: Why did you audition for "Anything Goes"?
KA: To be honest, I needed something to do for the summer! I have to be doing shows all the time and this was the next one up, so there ya go!

GCP Girl: What is your favorite musical number or scene in the show?
KA: "Friendship" by far. Thomas, Leannis and Steven all look like they're having a blast, not only through the whole show but particularly that number! It's the one that gets stuck in my head at the end of the night.

GCP Girl: What has been your favorite part of this experience so far?
KA: My favorite experience for any GCP show is always the backstage area. Everyone has been so awesome and fun to hang out with, trade tales, jam out to music, laughing...the list goes on and on.

GCP Girl: If you could play any character or perform any song other than the one you are performing, which would it be and why?
KA: Sir Evelyn! He's just so lovable and funny, although I don't think anyone could do it like Ken. Ken is amazing in that part!

GCP Girl: Why should people see "Anything Goes"?
KA: It's just a good time all around. A very epic show, to quote Thomas Sanders, with catchy, recognizable music and a really funny script. It's a farce with a musical wrapped around it!

GCP Girl: Which musical(s) would you like to see GCP produce in coming seasons?
KA: Well, my favorite musical has always been "Jesus Christ Superstar"! That and/or "Sweeney Todd" would be fantastic!

GCP Girl: Tell me something you'd like everyone to know!
KA: I also work as a massage therapist during the day and love to give shoulder rubs, as many cast members have figured out by now. I work at Chiropractic Solutions, which is an amazing place to work. Stop on by and get adjusted, massaged and just feel good about your body, then come see the show and feel good emotionally!

Thanks, Kelley! This is your final week to see "Anything Goes," so run to the box office!

xo xo GCP Girl

"Anything Goes" cast profile: Theresa Hanson

2011-07-21T14:49:00.003-04:00

Theresa Hanson has a "heavenly" experience in "Anything Goes"!

GCP Girl: Tell me a bit about your character.
TH: I am playing one of Reno's angels - "Chastity." Chastity is one of four not-so-innocent showgirls who sing/dance back-up for nightclub singer Reno Sweeney (Leannis Maxwell).

GCP Girl: Tell me about some of your previous shows (either here or at another theater).
TH: I was last in "Peter Pan" at GCP, which was a blast!

GCP Girl: Why did you audition for "Anything Goes"?
TH: I wanted some stage time this summer and to get into the GCP crowd again - they're a load of fun.

GCP Girl: What is your favorite musical number or scene in the show?
TH: That would probably be "Blow Gabriel," primarily because of the dancing, but also because I think it's quite a humorous little number because the passengers on the ship are confessing their sins and attempting to "purge their souls" and "see the light" when the number is complete with raunchy costumes, jazzy music, sultry dancing and much more sinful activity. It's fantastic.

GCP Girl: What has been your favorite part of this experience so far?
TH: The performances!

GCP Girl: If you could play any character or perform any song other than the one you are performing, which would it be and why?
TH: I would love to be Erma in "Buddy Beware" - lots of dance and flirting with sailors. My kind of thing.

GCP Girl: Why should people see "Anything Goes"?
TH: This musical puts everything in a carefree, humorous light and (hopefully) will make the audience completely forget any troubles they may have. Also, all the leads in the show are outrageously talented, and that makes for an enjoyable night no matter what.

GCP Girl: Which musical(s) would you like to see GCP produce in coming seasons?
TH: I am a crazy fan of "Sweeney Todd," so certainly that. Any Stephen Sondheim musical, really.

GCP Girl: Tell me something you'd like everyone to know!
TH: I have never had so many costumes in one show! :O And, of course, EVERYONE should see the show. It's just purely joyful and fun.

Thanks, Theresa!

xo xo GCP Girl

"Anything Goes" cast profile: Gerri Sterne

2011-07-20T16:24:00.004-04:00

Gerri Sterne takes a repeat voyage on the S.S. American in "Anything Goes"!

GCP Girl: Tell me a bit about your character.
GS: I am in the chorus, but my self-proclaimed character name is Vera. I am traveling with two friends on the S.S. American.

GCP Girl: Tell me about some of your previous shows.
GS: This is my first show since high school, where I performed in "All Shook Up" (Mayor Matilda Hyde), "Once Upon a Mattress" (Queen Aggravain), "Little Shop of Horrors," "Sweet Charity," and "Anything Goes."

GCP Girl: Why did you audition for "Anything Goes"?
GS: I auditioned for "Anything Goes" because I love the show (I was in it in high school), and I have seen several shows at GCP and it seemed like it would be so much fun to be a part of it.

GCP Girl: What is your favorite musical number or scene in the show?
GS: I love the cabin scenes where Moonface, Erma, and Billy plot to steal Elisha Whitney's glasses and avoid suspicion from the Captain. I think it is possibly the funniest part of the show.

GCP Girl: What has been your favorite part of this experience so far?
GS: My favorite part of this experience has been spending time with the cast. The cast has made rehearsal so fun, even when there was a lot of work to be done.

GCP Girl: If you could play any character or perform any song other than the one you are performing, which would it be and why?
GS: I would want to perform "Buddy Beware." I think it is the most adorable number in the show.

GCP Girl: Why should people see "Anything Goes"?
GS: People should see "Anything Goes" because it so much fun to watch. It is a classic show, with familiar Cole Porter music, but Susan has added so many cute bits and made an already funny show funnier.

GCP Girl: Which musical(s) would you like to see GCP produce in coming seasons?
GS: I would really like to see more shows like "25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee." I loved that it was a small musical that was light and silly.

GCP Girl: Tell me something you'd like everyone to know!
GS: It has been such a privilege to be a part of this show and the family that is GCP. I am so proud of everyone who has worked his or her butt off to make this show happen. I couldn't have asked for a better experience.

Thanks, Gerri! Week 3 of "Anything Goes" begins tonight, and shows have been selling out, so get your tickets now!

xo xo GCP Girl

"Anything Goes" cast profile: Erin Kleim

2011-07-19T14:08:00.004-04:00

Erin Kleim vamps it up as gangster moll Erma in "Anything Goes"!

GCP Girl: Tell me a bit about your character.
EK: I get to play Erma, the gangster's moll. Erma is a hoot! She is not the brightest bulb in the tanning bed but she tries really hard. What she lacks in smarts she makes up for with masterful manipulation and tiny amounts of clothing.

GCP Girl: Tell me about some of your previous shows.
EK: The last show I was in at the GCP was "GI Holiday Jukebox." I also keep myself fairly busy behind the scenes with props, sets, and directing. Shameless plug: COME SEE "RENT"!!

GCP Girl: Why did you audition for "Anything Goes"?
EK: A couple of reasons. I had a lot of fun in Susan's last show, "Seven Brides for Seven Brothers," so I wanted to recreate that. I was also pretty excited at the thought of being able to be ON stage with my bestie. (We have worked together in every other capacity.) The rides to and from rehearsal were some of my favorite moments.

GCP Girl: What is your favorite musical number or scene in the show?
EK: Tough one- they are all great. Favorite one to watch is "You're the Top." It just looks so deliciously funny and silly. Favorite one to be in I guess would obviously be 'Buddy Beware." I keep eating Whoppers every day just to see if the boys have a weight limit.....

GCP Girl: What has been your favorite part of this experience so far?
EK: Meeting new folks is always a good part, dance rehearsals, set construction, making the life preservers, the list goes on. I always enjoy all aspects of a show- from start to finish.

GCP Girl: If you could play any character or perform any song other than the one you are performing, which would it be and why?
EK: I love Erma so much that it would be tough to pick another. If I were a boy... (I just broke into a Beyonce song) I would LOVE to have a hand at Evelyn. I could never match Ken.... but I'd like to try.

GCP Girl: Why should people see "Anything Goes"?
EK: Because they will laugh, they will hum the songs, they will be dazzled by the beautiful costumes, they will love the dancing, and they will leave the theater feeling happier than when they entered.

GCP Girl: Which musical(s) would you like to see GCP produce in coming seasons?
EK: "Chicago," "Chicago," "Chicago," "Chicago," "Chicago," "Chicago," "Chicago," "Chicago," "Chicago," "Chicago," "Chicago," "Chicago," "Mamma Mia!", "Chicago"...

GCP Girl: Tell me something you'd like everyone to know!
EK: I am pretty conservative, I am not this scantily clad in real life!!!!!!

Thanks, Erin!

xo xo GCP Girl

"Anything Goes" cast profile: Beverly Turner

2011-07-16T16:05:00.002-04:00

Beverly Turner fulfills a lifelong dream of being on stage in "Anything Goes"!

GCP Girl: Tell me a bit about your character.

BT: I play the Old Lady in the Wheelchair, Marjorie, cruising with my daughter and granddaughter.

GCP Girl: Tell me about some of your previous shows.
BT: Very first time in a play!

GCP Girl: Why did you audition for "Anything Goes"?

BT: Doing so was on my "bucket list." I have always loved theater and wanted to try acting. I also love the music in this show!

GCP Girl: What is your favorite musical number or scene in the show?

BT: This is a tough one! I think the one that sticks in my head the most is "Delovely."

GCP Girl: What has been your favorite part of this experience so far?

BT: Just watching how the show is put together and how talented everyone is.

GCP Girl: If you could play any character or perform any song other than the one you are performing, which would it be and why?

BT: I think the most fun charactor is Irma and love how she does "Buddy Beware."

GCP Girl: Why should people see "Anything Goes"?

BT: This show is so full of fun and laughter, I think everyone will enjoy it.

GCP Girl: Which musical(s) would you like to see GCP produce in coming seasons?

BT: My favorite musical is "Phantom of the Opera."

GCP Girl: Tell me something you'd like everyone to know!

BT: I want everyone to know that you need to try things you want to do, no matter how silly you may feel. I auditioned knowing that I didn't have a chance, but ended up having the experience of my life! Dare to follow your dreams!

Thanks, Beverly! I couldn't agree more!

xo xo GCP Girl

"Anything Goes" cast profile: Shawen Ilaria

2011-07-14T11:01:00.003-04:00

Shawen Ilaria takes a break from medical school to sing and dance for us in "Anything Goes"!

GCP Girl: Tell me a bit about your character.
SI: I'm a chorus girl in "Anything Goes." I've named my character Lola. My personal back story for Lola is that she was an orphan, and was on her own at a young age. She met her two best friends at work, Vera and Becky, and together they saved every penny for the chance of a lifetime-- to explore Europe! They packed up all of their stuff, sold their belongings, and are now on an adventure of a lifetime aboard the S.S. American. You'll see the three of us on the ship, excited about every little thing, and in awe of the glamour of it all. These details help motivate us in our actions while acting in the chorus!

GCP Girl: Tell me about some of your previous shows.
SI: I've actually been a pianist my whole life, and was the rehearsal pianist for my high school's musicals. Once at college at UF, I played piano for shows at UF as well as P.K. Yonge. My only acting experience was playing Glinda in the White Coat Company's "Wizard of Oz" earlier this year. The White Coat Company is a theatre group consisting of medical students at UF, and we performed at Tachachale, Sydney Lanier, and for the pediatric ward at Shands.

GCP Girl: Why did you audition for "Anything Goes"?
SI: I auditioned for "Anything Goes" because after being in the pit for so many years, I finally wanted to try my hand at acting, singing, and dancing. And I LOVE it!

GCP Girl: What is your favorite musical number or scene in the show?
SI: My favorite scene is when Billy, Moon, and the Chinese converts Luke and John end up in jail together. It's a short scene, but it is guaranteed to make all of us girls trying to get ready in the dressing rooms go hysterical with laughter every time!

GCP Girl: What has been your favorite part of this experience so far?
SI: My favorite part of this experience has been making so many new friends. I didn't know anyone at GCP before I started, and everyone has taken me into the family completely whole-heartedly! I look forward to rehearsal every day, because I know I'm going to have a great time with the best cast ever.

GCP Girl: If you could play any character or perform any song other than the one you are performing, which would it be and why?
SI: I would love to be Reno Sweeney in the song "You're the Top." It's such a cute song with a million lyrics and allows for a lot of acting out the lines. I listen to it in the car all the time!

GCP Girl: Why should people see "Anything Goes"?
SI: "Anything Goes" will make you smile. It is hilarious, fun, adorable, and quite cheeky, if I may say so myself.

GCP Girl: Which musical(s) would you like to see GCP produce in coming seasons?
SI: I would love to see GCP do "Wicked." I've already made a dream cast list in my head. :)

GCP Girl: Tell me something you'd like everyone to know!
SI: I've loved being a part of "Anything Goes" so much! As this, the summer after my first year of medical school, is my last summer off ever, I couldn't have asked for a better way to fill it. The memories of being a part of this show will be with me forever-- and will hopefully get me through the grueling second year! :)

Thanks, Shawen! "Anything Goes" is now in its second week - get over to the Vam York to see it!

xo xo GCP Girl

"Anything Goes" show review!

2011-07-14T09:32:00.002-04:00

The Gainesville Sun review of "Anything Goes" is up, and the show is a hit! But we knew that, right? ;-)

"Anything Goes" cast profile: Thomas Sanders

2011-07-13T09:01:00.004-04:00

Thomas Sanders puts on his dancing shoes once again as Billy Crocker in "Anything Goes"!

GCP Girl: Tell me a bit about your character.
TS: Billy Crocker, as he was described to me, is everyone’s favorite guy, always the smiling, easygoing character who has stowed aboard the S.S. American in hopes of convincing the girl of his dreams to break off her engagement and marry him instead.

GCP Girl: Tell me about some of your previous shows.
TS: I was last on the GCP stage in the Winter show “G.I. Holiday Jukebox.” I also performed in “The Producers” as Leo Bloom, “Singin’ in the Rain” as Don Lockwood, “Hello, Dolly!” as Cornelius Hackl, and “Hot Mikado” as Ko-Ko. My last Susan Christophy production was back in the Spring 2007 show “Seven Brides for Seven Brothers” as one of the oafish suitors.

GCP Girl: Why did you audition for "Anything Goes"?
TS: There’s just something about the summer musical at the GCP that is so unbelievably EPIC. It’s been great to have so much talent come out for this show, while there are no real big classes that preoccupy many students’ and teachers’ time. And, most of all, “Anything Goes” had been advertised to me as just simply a feel-good farce with singing and dancing. On top of that, it all takes place on a cruise ship. Really, how much better can you get?

GCP Girl: What is your favorite musical number or scene in the show?
TS: One song I absolutely love is “You’re the Top,” which I get to sing with Leannis Maxwell, our show’s lead actress. The song is so much fun to sing and get into. Susan, our director, told us to play with the lyrics and mess with each other, and it’s a blast every single time.

GCP Girl: What has been your favorite part of this experience so far?
TS: It’s always the moments when you’re laughing and getting to know new people in the show. Like I said, there is a lot of new talent for this show, many people that we would be lucky to have come back for future shows, and I am honored to be a part of their first experiences.

GCP Girl: If you could play any character or perform any song other than the one you are performing, which would it be and why?
TS: I probably would have tons of fun playing Moonface Martin, Public Enemy No. 13. That character gives you so much opportunity to make the audience laugh. Steven Butler, who plays Moonface in our show, along with Kenneth Foote, who plays Evelyn Oaklaigh, steal the show with their awesome humor. I love watching those guys! As a side note, it would be interesting to try and perform Erin Kleim’s (Erma) song “Buddy Beware” just to see if I can carry off any of the crazy lifts and flips she does with the sailors. Just awesome.

GCP Girl: Why should people see "Anything Goes"?
TS: This show is silly, entertaining, and poignant all at once. It conveys the great message that, even under the craziest of circumstances, even out at sea, when it comes to love, anything goes. People should leave this show just feeling good, bottom line.

GCP Girl: Which musical(s) would you like to see GCP produce in coming seasons?
TS: Oh man, that’s a tough one. What I’d really love to put on would be “Ragtime.” It has awesome music and a powerful message, and I believe we have the talent in Gainesville to put that show on.

GCP Girl: Tell me something you'd like everyone to know!
TS: I have recently graduated from the University of Florida with a bachelor's in chemical engineering. With luck, I will find a job here in Gainesville, and be able to be a part of more shows in the next year!

Thanks, Thomas! "Anything Goes" picks back up tonight after a sold-out weekend! Get your tickets today!

xo xo GCP Girl

"Rent" cast list!

2011-07-12T13:12:00.002-04:00

Congrats to the brand-new cast of "Rent"!

Roger: Philip Young

Mark: Peter Romberg

Collins: Kevin Anderson

Angel: Steven Butler

Joanne: Kelley Addis

Benny: Damario Major

Maureen: Sissy Bell

Mimi: Ashleigh Beatty

The ensemble:

Thomas Sanders

Bryan Faux

Scott West

Michael Tremaine

Rhonda Wilson

Gerri Sterne

Samantha Fundenburg

Angelique Empinado

Brittany Tetrick

Giovanni Barrio

Stephen Griffin

Blake Matchett

Zachary Kidd

Shontae White

Ashleigh Beatty

Natalie Rollan

"Anything Goes" cast profile: Ken Foote

2011-07-08T14:04:00.008-04:00

GCP veteran Ken Foote returns to the Vam York to sail the high seas as Lord Evelyn Oakley in "Anything Goes"!

GCP Girl: Tell me a bit about your character.
KF: I play Lord Evelyn Oakley, who is engaged to be married to Hope Harcourt. He's a nice guy but he's a little naïve, so that’s where most of his humor comes from.

GCP Girl: Tell me about some of your previous shows.
KF: It's been about three years since I've performed in a show. My last show was "See How They Run" at GCP.

GCP Girl: Why did you audition for "Anything Goes"?
KF: I was looking to have some fun this summer. The show process is tiring but fun at the same time and I’ve enjoyed this experience.

GCP Girl: What is your favorite musical number or scene in the show?
KF: "Gypsy in Me." It's my big number and I've never had a solo number in a musical at GCP. I'm not really much of a singer so it's fun to get out there and give it a shot.

GCP Girl: What has been your favorite part of this experience so far?
KF: Getting to know the rest of the cast. This is a great cast and everyone really seems to be enjoying the show.

GCP Girl: If you could play any character or perform any song other than the one you are performing, which would it be and why?
KF: That's difficult to say. I'm really happy with this part and I don't think I would be suited for any other part. If I had to choose something I would say I would want to be the Purser. There’s a lot there to that part and Bradley has been doing a great job with it.

GCP Girl: Why should people see "Anything Goes"?
KF: It's a fun show with some catchy tunes that people will certainly enjoy.

GCP Girl: Which musical(s) would you like to see GCP produce in coming seasons?
KF: I'm not much of a musical guy, but I would love to see them put up "Noises Off."

GCP Girl: Tell me something you'd like everyone to know!
KF: I can honestly say that I'm terrified going into this show. I haven't sung a solo since high school and I'm a little freaked out. I’m just going to do my best and hopefully everyone will enjoy my performance.

Methinks Mr. Ken is a little modest - we all know he's great! (And despite the profile pics, he is not actually a fuzzy blue Muppet.) Catch the opening weekend of "Anything Goes" and find out for yourself!

xo xo GCP Girl

"Anything Goes" cast profile: Matt Sherman

2011-07-07T13:48:00.003-04:00

Matt Sherman makes his GCP debut as Wall Street banker Elisha Whitney in "Anything Goes," which previews tonight at the Vam York Theater. Tickets are only $5 - be there at 7 p.m. to get them!

GCP Girl: Tell me a bit about your character.
MS: I play Elisha Whitney, a bit of a snob, a lech and a lush (Eli, not Matt).

GCP Girl: Tell me about some of your previous shows.
MS: My most recent appearances were with director Susan Christophy in "Fiddler on the Roof" and "Children of Eden."

GCP Girl: Why did you audition for "Anything Goes"?
MS: I thought I was appearing in traffic court to contest a speeding ticket. When the judge asked me to sing “My Country ‘Tis of Thee” I assumed she was being patriotic. Next thing I knew, I was in show rehearsals five times weekly.

GCP Girl: What is your favorite musical number or scene in the show?
MS: The finale, “I Get A Kick Out Of You,” is a great evergreen song that became a Sinatra standard. It’s fun to sing as the high tenor harmonies for the show.

GCP Girl: What has been your favorite part of this experience so far? MS: I have been made to feel very welcomed by other newcomers and by the veterans at GCP. The camaraderie has been great and the green and dressing rooms are as much fun as the show.

GCP Girl: If you could play any character or perform any song other than the one you are performing, which would it be and why?
MS: Leannis is so strong in “Blow, Gabriel, Blow” – but the song’s hook is in my head and I wish I could sing the melody right with her.

GCP Girl: Why should people see "Anything Goes"?
MS: Ken and me in our underwear and falling over dead drunk? That’s the kind of spectacle you can now witness without having to visit us at home!

GCP Girl: Which musical(s) would you like to see GCP produce in coming seasons?
MS: Gosh, GCP has done so many marvelous and classic shows in recent years. Maybe "Guys and Dolls" again or “The Scottish Play”? I’d like to see some old-fashioned bloodletting and hear Ken and Thomas do more of their British accents.

GCP Girl: Tell me something you'd like everyone to know!
MS: The photo of me is from my website at http://billiards.about.com where I teach the sport of billiards. Come play pool with me sometime!

Thanks, Matt! Break a leg at Preview tonight!

xo xo GCP Girl

Spotlight on Cole Porter

2011-07-06T14:37:00.003-04:00

Cole Porter wrote some of the best-known songs in musical theatre, including "Night and Day," "I've Got You Under My Skin," and "I Get a Kick Out of You." He also wrote the lyrics for such blockbuster shows as "Kiss Me, Kate" and "Anything Goes," which previews tomorrow night at the Vam York Theater.

Born in Indiana in 1891, Porter learned to play the violin at age six, the piano at age 8, and composed his first operetta at age 10. He attended Yale, switching from law school to music studies, and wrote his first Broadway song in 1915. He moved to Paris in 1917 and established an opulent lifestyle after World War I.

His first Broadway success was the musical "Paris" in 1928. It was followed by "Wake Up and Dream" and "Fifty Million Frenchmen," with his songs enjoying some popularity; Fred Astaire's "The Gay Divorcee" featured the hit song "Night and Day." In 1934, a musical vehicle written for Ethel Merman turned into "Anything Goes," an immediate success. Porter called it one of his two perfect shows (the other was "Kiss Me, Kate.")

Porter went on to write such standards as "Begin the Beguine," "It's De-Lovely," and "Don't Fence Me In." A riding accident in 1937 that left him crippled did not keep him from writing, and later successful shows included "DuBarry was a Lady," "Panama Hattie," "Let's Face It!", "Something For the Boys," and "Mexican Hayride." In 1948, "Kiss Me, Kate" won the Tony Award for Best Musical, and featured the songs "Another Op'nin' Another Show", "Too Darn Hot", "Always True to You (in My Fashion)", and "Brush Up Your Shakespeare."

Since his death in 1964, he has been remembered as one of the primary composers of the American songbook.

"Rent" audition tips

2011-07-05T13:06:00.004-04:00

Erin Kleim, director of the upcoming "Rent", stopped by to give us a few tips about auditions this weekend!

GCP Girl: So what types/abilities are you looking for in these auditions?
EK: "Rent" is a rock opera (all singing), so we are looking for strong voices with this show.

GCP Girl: Is there anything special auditioners should be prepared to do?
EK: This will not be a typical audition with line readings in addition to songs. Those auditioning will sing their selected song and possibly be called back the next night for an additional singing audition with songs from the show. Are you getting the idea that this is a SINGING show? Only the roles of Mimi and Angel may require a separate dance audition on the night of callbacks.

GCP Girl: Any songs you do NOT want to hear? ;-)

EK: No, haha, any song is fine as long as it showcases an ability to perform in a rock and roll style. "I Could Have Danced All Night" may not be the best choice for this audition.....

GCP Girl: Anything else for the good of the order?

EK: Nope, just bring a great song, a great attitude, and a great voice! These auditions should be a lot of fun.

Catch Erin in "Anything Goes", opening this weekend at the GCP! Remember, "Rent" auditions are Sunday and Monday, July 10-11 - details available on the GCP page on Facebook!

xo xo GCP Girl

"The Trip to Bountiful" cast profile: Katina Black

2011-05-21T12:26:00.003-04:00

Katina Black rules the roost as Carrie Watts's bossy daughter-in-law, Jessie Mae, in "The Trip to Bountiful"!

GCP Girl: Tell us about some of your previous shows.

KB: I've done everything from Shakespeare to "Rocky Horror Picture Show." But my absolute favorite is Shakespeare. I think my favorite role I ever played was Ophelia in "Hamlet." The director actually had me "fling" myself off the ship! The landing was a little rough, but it was so fun!

GCP Girl: Why did you audition for "The Trip to Bountiful"?

KB: I had never auditioned in Gainesville before, so I thought this was a good place to start. The show seemed really interesting, and when I got to read bits of the script, I found it had a lot of depth.

GCP Girl: Tell us about your character.

KB: Jessie Mae is an interesting one. She is always floating in the clouds, and only cares about one thing, herself. She is a dreamer, but very out of touch with reality. I, personally, believe she loves her husband, but is so worn out from living with her mother-in-law that she has lost the ability to show affection and love towards him.

GCP Girl: What is your favorite scene or line in the show?

KB: "I said, furthermore, I had told her the truth when I remarked that the beauty parlour must have seen her coming a long way down the road when they charged her good money for that last permanent they gave her...". It really shows how shrewish and gossipy she is!

GCP Girl: What do you hope audiences take away from "The Trip to Bountiful"?

KB: That we all have our own Bountifuls. And live everyday to the fullest and love the people around you, because one day they won't be there.

GCP Girl: What does community theatre mean to you?

KB: The chance to meet new people.

GCP Girl: Tell us something about yourself you'd like everyone to know!

KB: That I am NOTHING like Jessie Mae. However I am a little flighty sometimes... haha.

Thanks, Katina! "Bountiful" got a great review this week - that means you should go see it!!

xo xo GCP Girl

"The Trip to Bountiful" review!

2011-05-19T09:32:00.001-04:00

Congrats to the cast and crew of "The Trip to Bountiful," which got a great review in the Gainesville Sun! Go see it!

"Anything Goes" cast list!!

2011-05-18T14:17:00.006-04:00

Congratulations to the cast of "Anything Goes"! We can't wait to see this show!

Reno Sweeney - Leannis Maxwell
Hope Harcourt - Erin Silverman
Evangeline Harcourt -Angela Jonas
Lord Evelyn Oakleigh - Ken Foote
Elisha Whitney - Matthew Sherman
Billy Crocker - Thomas Sanders
Moonface Martin - Steven Butler
Erma - Erin Kleim
Luke - Michael Tremaine
John - Jay Pryblski
Ship's Captain - Malik Grady
Angels - Theresa Hanson, Lauren Robinson, Calypso Meyers
Sailor Quartet - Howard Anderson, Kevin Anderson, Dan Christophy, Peter Romberg
Fred - Tammy Meyers
Henry Dobson - Jessie Lancaster
FBI Agent - Ian Isom
Old Lady in Wheelchair - Beverly Turner
Chorus - Gerri Sterne, Olivia Turpening, Kelley Addis, Shawen Ilaria, Elizabeth Bryant, Samantha Fundenburg

(Apologies if I misspelled your name! Let me know and I will fix it.)

"The Trip to Bountiful" cast profile: Shetiquea Davis

2011-05-13T15:44:00.002-04:00

Shetiquea Davis makes her GCP debut as a ticket agent who helps Carrie get back home in "The Trip to Bountiful," opening tonight at the Vam York!

GCP Girl: Tell us about some of your previous shows.
SD: I've only done one other show which was a short, one-act play titled "At the Punch Bowl," so I'm a new kid on the block. :-)

GCP Girl: Why did you audition for "The Trip to Bountiful"?
SD: I think a drama is more my style rather than true comedies or farce-type productions. But really, I'm open to auditioning for just about anything. It's all about gaining experience in a theatre setting in any way that I can right now.

GCP Girl: Tell us about your character.
SD: Miss Ticket Agent No. 1 is a little over the top. She's a no-nonsense type of gal but still polite in all her southernness. :-)

GCP Girl: What is your favorite scene or line in the show?
SD: I have a few. I always like when Mrs. Carrie Watts talks to Thelma about her son telling her not to argue with Jessie Mae because nobody ever wins an argument with her, then she looks away and says "And I guess that's right." Jennie's delivery is funny.

GCP Girl: What do you hope audiences take away from "The Trip to Bountiful"?
SD: I hope audiences enjoy the range of emotions that this play takes you through. Parts will make you laugh, others will make you sad, but in the end, Mrs. Watts gets all that she wants, which comes with a sense of triumph and peace, so I hope audiences will feel joy as they experience her journey with her.

GCP Girl: What does community theatre mean to you?
SD: Wow, I'm new to community theatre and I wish I'd gotten involved with it years ago. It's been a great experience and I can see myself being a part of it far into the future. I think I'm hooked!

GCP Girl: Tell us something about yourself you'd like everyone to know!
SD: I'm actually kind of shy sometimes but people say they don't see it on the stage. I think that theatre allows me to strip away the inhibitions a little bit, which has been fun. :-)

Thanks, Shetiquea! Yay for opening night!!

xo xo GCP Girl

Check out the "Bountiful" preview article!

2011-05-12T10:05:00.000-04:00

The Gainesville Sun preview article for "The Trip to Bountiful" is posted!

Author Spotlight: Horton Foote

2011-05-11T14:44:00.000-04:00

Horton Foote (1916-2009) is the playwright who wrote "The Trip to Bountiful," which opens this week at the Vam York Theater. Originally from a small town in Texas, many of his themes involved the people and places near where he grew up.

In "Bountiful," Carrie Watts escapes living with her son and his wife to embark on a trip back to her own Texas hometown.

"My first memory was of stories about the past — a past that, according to the storytellers, was superior in every way to the life then being lived," Foote wrote in 1988. "It didn't take me long, however, to understand that the present was all we had, for the past was gone and nothing could be done about it."

"Bountiful" premiered on Broadway in 1953, starring screen icon Lillian Gish. The film version was released in 1985, with Geraldine Page winning an Academy Award as best actress.

Foote himself won two Academy Awards, one for best adapted screenplay in 1962 for "To Kill a Mockingbird" and one for best original screenplay in 1983 for "Tender Mercies." He received the 1995 Pulitzer Prize for his play "The Young Man From Atlanta." Foote also served as the voice of Jefferson Davis in Ken Burns's documentary "The Civil War."

The preview performance is tomorrow, so get your tickets when the box office opens at 7 p.m.! See you there!

xo xo GCP Girl

GCP's 2011-12 season is announced!

2011-04-24T17:18:00.005-04:00

Happy Easter - here's a special treat for you! The GCP 2011-12 season is official! Here's what we can look forward to:

Rent - directed by Erin Kleim
A Christmas Story - directed by Thomas Muhn
Intimate Apparel - directed by Rhonda Wilson
Thoroughly Modern Millie - directed by Dan Christophy
Agnes of God - directed by Jennie Stringfellow
Hairspray - directed by Pat Thomson

Looks like next season will offer a lot of opportunities for performers and audiences alike! A huge thanks goes to the play selection committee for all its hard work. Break a leg, everyone!

xo xo GCP Girl

"The Murder Room" Director Profile: Pat Thomson

2011-01-28T10:00:00.002-05:00

Director Pat Thomson sits down to talk about directing, revisiting "The Murder Room" and farces.

"The Murder Room" is running through February 6th!

"The Murder Room" gets a great review!

2011-01-27T08:24:00.002-05:00

Congrats to the cast and crew of "The Murder Room" on a great review!

"The Murder Room" cast profile: Kristin Mercer

2011-01-26T15:56:00.002-05:00

Is she evil, or just misunderstood? Kristin Mercer plays Mavis Templeton Hollister, a newlywed with something to hide in "The Murder Room"!

GCP Girl: Tell me about your character.
KM: She is over the top and I adore her (um, from an acting standpoint, anyway). To say much else would be to say too much.

GCP Girl: Why did you audition for "The Murder Room"?
KM: I wanted very much to play this character after reading the script - she is wonderfully written and over the top! I also wanted a chance to work with Pat as a director (not to mention several very talented and very dear friends who were also auditioning).

GCP Girl: What is your favorite scene in the show?
KM: Too many to mention without spoiling it for everyone!

GCP Girl: What do you hope audiences take away from the show?
KM: Laughter and high spirits.

GCP Girl: What does community theatre mean to you?
KM: Everything. It is my passion, my therapy, and my second home.

GCP Girl: What would you say to someone who is thinking about auditioning for a GCP show?
KM: Join us! And, if you have never done this and have always wanted to, take a risk - it is worth it!

Thanks, Kristin! The fun resumes tonight at the Vam York!

xo xo GCP Girl

"Spelling Bee" cast list!

2011-01-25T15:55:00.002-05:00

Congrats to the cast of "The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee"! Now we're expecting even more from you - make it good!

Olive Ostrovsky- Sarah Viskovich
Douglas Panch - Richard Healey
Mitch Mahoney - Giovanni Barrio
Logainne Schwartzandgrubenniere - Tova Blasberg
Rona Lisa Perretti - Susan Christophy
Leaf Coneybear - Peter Romberg
William Barfee - Bryan Faux
Marcy Park - Mara Abeleda
Chip Tolentino - Nickolus Turner
Dan Dad - Nicholas May
Carl Dad - Robert Lencki

"The Murder Room" cast profile: Jan Cohen

2011-01-21T15:59:00.003-05:00

Jan Cohen finds herself in a houseful of chaos in "The Murder Room"!

GCP Girl: Tell me about your character.
JC: I play Lottie Molloy, the housekeeper, who is not the brightest spark on the block.

GCP Girl: Why did you audition for "The Murder Room"?
JC: Pat Thomson is the director!

GCP Girl: What is your favorite scene in the show?
JC: A pointless conversation with Esteban and Kristin.

GCP Girl: What do you hope audiences take away from "The Murder Room"?
JC: Laughter!

GCP Girl: What does community theatre mean to you?
JC: It is my "job" and my passion.

GCP Girl: What would you tell someone who is thinking about auditioning for a GCP show?
JC: Be prepared. Read the script and return said script to the director on time (ask Robert, our newest actor). Be polite, prompt and motivated.

GCP Girl: Tell me something you'd like everyone to know!
JC: We are also doing a wonderful play about Rwanda on Jan. 30 and 31 at 7:30 p.m. Come to both plays, please!

Thanks, Jan! Break a leg on opening night!

xo xo GCP Girl

"The Murder Room" cast profile: Danielle Pagliara

2011-01-20T10:31:00.002-05:00

Danielle Pagliara plays Susan, the incredibly ditzy daughter of the house, who returns home from college to find all is not as it seems...

GCP Girl: Tell me about your character.
DP: Susan is a blast to play! Susan is ditzy and sweet and head over heels for her fiance, and though she's by far the stupidest person ever, she has the best possible intentions. Being as empty-headed but lovable is the hardest thing ever!

GCP Girl: Why did you audition for "The Murder Room"?
DP: I auditioned for "The Murder Room" because it had just been too long. I needed my onstage fix. I hadn't performed with a character and lines for almost three years, though I've been lurking backstage since "See How They Run." I also love working with Pat Thompson and I knew that anyone cast in the show would be amazing to work with, and they all are!

GCP Girl: What is your favorite scene in the show?
DP: My favorite scene in the show is a Act 2, Scene 1 for two reasons. One, I get some one-on-one quality time with stepmommy. Kristin Mercer is a phenomenal actress and I have learned so much just from watching her. The other reason is Susan and Barry show some affection, and have you seen Robert T. Alldrink? :)

GCP Girl: What do you hope audiences take away from "The Murder Room"?
DP: I hope audiences all leave laughing. That's what the whole show is about. Farces are hilarious and spoofs are ridiculous, and this is a farce of a spoof; it really doesn't get better. Between the characters, the set, and the sound effects, I want the audiences laughing on the way home.

GCP Girl: What does community theatre mean to you?
DP: To me, community theatre is a place to belong. There are working professionals, college students, high schoolers, children, and everyone in between that take part in GCP, and everyone belongs. Everyone at this theater is so talented and so welcoming and it is a joy to come to the GCP every day and watch those inspirational people work, be it onstage, backstage, or yelling from the house. And when those people stop what they're doing to laugh at a stupid joke with you, take you under their wing, or make silly faces for the camera with you... it blows my mind.

GCP Girl: What would you tell someone who is thinking about auditioning for a GCP show?
DP: This is so cliche, and I promised I wouldn't say it if I ever got to write one of these things, but here it goes anyway: DO IT! There is nothing stopping you! The worst that could possibly happen is you is you conquer a fear, have fun, and meet amazing people. From there, you can work on run crew, front of house, costumes, onstage, lights, sound, and hang out with some of the most incredibly rockin' people on the planet. You'll have the opportunity to learn a lot from the people and build life-long friendships. It's the best idea ever.

GCP Girl: Tell me something you'd like everyone to know!
DP: Between running my own camp program and working toward my teaching degree, perparing for this show was intense for me. But with the support of the cast, crew, and Pat, and my friends and family, I think I've been pushed to do my best and contribute to this all-star cast. We have all put a lot of hard work into the show and I know it's going to be amazing. Castmates: break a leg. Audiences: laugh your ass off. Love you!

Thanks, Danielle! Tonight is the preview performance - tickets are $5 at the door for general seating. Don't miss it!

xo xo GCP Girl

"The Murder Room" preview article!

2011-01-20T08:26:00.001-05:00

The preview article for "The Murder Room" is in today's Gainesville Sun!

GCP Outreach Show!

2011-01-18T15:15:00.002-05:00

GCP is taking advantage of two of its dark nights later this month to bring you something a little different. "I Have Before Me a Remarkable Document Given to Me By a Young Lady from Rwanda" (how do they fit that on a poster?!), directed by Jan Cohen and starring the fabulous duo of Jeff Nowlin and Madeleine Escarne, will grace the Vam York stage Sunday, January 30, and Monday, January 31, at 7:30 p.m. There is a suggested donation of $5 for admission; all donations will benefit a children's arts group. Seating is general admission.

Sonja Linden's play recounts the aftermath of the Rwandan genocide by introducing Juliette, a young survivor, to Simon, a poet who has volunteered to help refugees write and share their stories. A talk-back session will occur after each production, featuring an African Studies professor from UF and a nurse from Shands who has helped survivors of the genocide.

Happy Holidays!

2010-12-21T11:07:00.002-05:00

Happy Holidays, GCPers! In honor of the occasion, I have composed a holiday song. Have a wonderful week and be safe!

To the tune of "O Come All Ye Faithful":

O come, all ye actors
Ye divas and ye comics
O come ye, O come ye to GCP
Each season we bring ye
Shows with song unceasing
With drama so exciting
With music so inviting
O come, all ye actors, to GCP!

Yea, we shall greet thee
Come and join our chorus
Pleasure and good times shall be had by all
The new year doth promise
Bright stage sets and new costumes
An orchestra in full tune
Shall help us belt, trill and croon
O come, all ye actors, to GCP!

Sing, all sopranos
Join with all the altos
Add tenors and bass to swell the song
With lyrics to fill in
Amid plot exposition
By Sondheim or Cole Porter
Sing out in any order
O come, all ye actors, to GCP!

xo xo GCP Girl

"GI Holiday Jukebox" preview!

2010-12-09T10:38:00.002-05:00

Here's the preview article for "GI Holiday Jukebox" at the Vam York!

"GI Jukebox" is coming up!

2010-11-29T12:22:00.002-05:00

Depressed now that Thanksgiving is over and "The Wiz" ended yesterday?
Seen all the holiday specials on TV?
Finding that 24-hour holiday music channels aren't enough?

You're in luck! The GCP production of "GI Jukebox" is just around the corner! "Set in Christmastime World War II, this show is reminiscent of the USO shows of days gone by. The musical numbers span big band, swing, and Latin — it’s a musical retrospective of an America we’ll never see again!" The show features Erin Kleim, Thomas Sanders, Michael Tremaine and Sarah Viskovich as a tuneful (and good-lookin'!) quartet.

Show dates are Dec. 9-19, Wednesday-Saturday 8 p.m., Sunday 2 p.m. You can pick up your tickets at the new box office in the Vam York lobby! See you there!

xo xo GCP Girl

"The Wiz" cast profile: Stephanie Johnson

2010-11-28T14:45:00.003-05:00

Stephanie Johnson bids farewell to the GCP and her role as an ensemble dancer in "The Wiz" for a great career opportunity!

GCP Girl: Tell me about some of your previous shows.
SJ: This is my second show at GCP; this summer I was in the ensemble of "The Producers." I have danced with Dance Alive! since the age of seven in "The Nutcracker," and as a teenager began touring with the company in "The Nutcracker" and many other of their performances. While at FSU getting my BFA in dance, I danced with Tallahassee Ballet. I also did the Disney College Program, where I got to perform in the Disney Dreams Come True Parade as a Bridesmaid.

GCP Girl: Why did you audition for this show?
SJ: After having an AMAZING time this summer in "The Producers" and meeting some wonderful people, I knew I wanted to do another production at GCP.

GCP Girl: What has been your favorite part of this experience so far?
SJ: I have enjoyed getting to perform and doing a show with a variety of different roles and dance styles from ballet to hip hop.

GCP Girl: If you could play any other character in the show, which one would you choose and why?
SJ: This is a hard one. I am not in "Y'all Got It," and that is a really fun dance. I think I would like to be Addaperle, though, because her character gets to have an over-the-top personality. Amei does a great job.

GCP Girl: If you went to Oz instead of Dorothy, what would be your favorite part of the trip?
SJ: Getting to meet so many different people and characters... and of course dancing with all of them.

GCP Girl: Why do you think "The Wizard of Oz" is such a popular story with both children and adults?
SJ: I think the "Wizard of Oz" is so popular because it tells a story of friendship and also looking inside to discover who you are.

GCP Girl: What would you tell someone who is considering auditioning for a GCP show?
SJ: Go for it; you have nothing to lose by auditioning. Go out and do your best and have fun. Remember, each show is different and will be a new experience.

GCP Girl: Tell me something you'd like everyone to know!
SJ: I left yesterday to begin working for Royal Caribbean! I want to thank all of you who have helped make my experience with GCP so wonderful. I have learned lots about theatre and myself. I learned that I really like to spend set hours and making props with great friends, and you can probably never have too much glitter. :) So many of you have been so supportive and great such great friends. I will miss you and please keep in touch. If/when I end up back in Gainesville, I look forward to performing at GCP again.

Thanks, Stephanie! Best of luck to you!

xo xo GCP Girl

"The Wiz" cast profile: Malik Grady

2010-11-28T14:42:00.003-05:00

As the Royal Gatekeeper in "The Wiz," Malik Grady will grant you entrance to the Emerald City...for a price.

GCP Girl: Tell me about some of your previous shows.
MG: I had never done theatre in my life before auditioning for "Seven Brides for Seven Brothers" back in 2007. Since then, I've been hooked. I got to be a lead in my second show here in "Hot Mikado," and then last year I had what will probably end up being the role of my life as the Leading Player in "Pippin."

GCP Girl: Why did you audition for this show?
MG: After being the only "brother" in "Seven Brides for Seven Brothers," being in this production was a given. I'm black.

GCP Girl: What has been your favorite part of this experience so far?
MG: Because of the way I am, my favorite part has been welcoming the people new to the Gainesville Community Playhouse to the family and trying to make sure they feel comfortable. There was definitely a learning curve for me learning the language of theatre and getting up to speed, so I do my best to help everyone who comes after me.

GCP Girl: If you could play any other character in the show, which one would you choose and why?
MG: Obviously playing The Wiz in "The Wiz" would have been awesome, but can you imagine how much fun it would be to play Evillene in drag? ...Too much information?

GCP Girl: If you went to Oz instead of Dorothy, what would be your favorite part of the trip?
MG: I'm tempted to say the poppies, but this is a family blog. This may surprise some people, but I like BOTH the chocolate river where that German kid almost drowned AND the Molasses Swamp! ...Wait, that's only in Willy Wonka's Chocolate Factory and Candyland, respectively? Bummer. Honestly, I'm not sure if Dorothy has any fun places she goes in Oz -- she just has fun PEOPLE when she gets there!

GCP Girl: Why do you think "The Wizard of Oz" is such a popular story with both children and adults?
MG: SO many reasons. We can all identify with a lost child trying to get home, plus the archetypes of the heroic friends are both what we fear in ourselves (no brains, heart or courage) combined with what we hope to have (intelligence, love and bravery). Add to that the iconic images that 60 years of the original "Wizard of Oz" has given us and it's a very resonant modern fairy tale.

GCP Girl: What would you tell someone who is considering auditioning for a GCP show?
MG: Please do so -- I personally will do everything I can to make sure you feel welcome and come back. The creative and collaborative effort of talented people working together to make art is a life-affirming continuous action that draws people together and which you really can't find anywhere else.

GCP Girl: Tell me something you'd like everyone to know!
MG: This is my second show performing "with" my beautiful Warrior Angel Sarah as the Stage Manager and I have to say it has been a wonderful experience. I love all of my castmates and enjoy my life, and she's the very best part of it.

Thanks, Malik, and congrats to you and Sarah!

xo xo GCP Girl

"The Wiz" cast profile: Desiree' Salter

2010-11-27T16:47:00.006-05:00

Desiree' Salter fulfills a longtime dream as a principle dancer in "The Wiz"!

GCP Girl: Tell me about some of your previous shows.
DS: My previous show at GCP was "Annie," and I played Tessie! I have been in numerous shows at Star Center with Rhonda Wilson. "All Shook Up" (chorus), "King and I"(Lady Thiang), "Disney Spectacular"(many Disney characters), "A Little Princess"(Lavita), "Alice and Wonderland"(Rabbit), "Once on this Island"(Townsperson), "Obidiah and the Oak Tree"(Little Girl). I have also performed at GHS in "Kiss Me Kate" (company).

GCP Girl: Why did you audition for this show?
DS: I auditioned for this show because I love the music and the different types of dancing that is involved. I also been wanting to be in the show for some years now and this was FINALLY my chance to do so.

GCP Girl: What has been your favorite part of this experience so far?
DS: My favorite part of it all would have to be meeting new people and seeing all the other talent that is out there! Practices have also been a BLAST! It has brought the cast closer together and made it easier for everyone to work together.

GCP Girl: If you could play any other character in the show, which one would you choose and why?
DS: Hmmm, I would say Addaperle. Her character is really funny and the audience really enjoys her appearance on stage! :)

GCP Girl: If you went to Oz instead of Dorothy, what would be your favorite part of the trip?
DS: My favorite part would be meeting the friends... They make the trip fun and worthwhile.

GCP Girl: Why do you think "The Wizard of Oz" is such a popular story with both children and adults?
DS: Every age can relate to this story in many ways. Also, the story has fun and toe-tapping songs that every age can enjoy!

GCP Girl: What would you tell someone who is considering auditioning for a GCP show?
DS: Go for it... its a lifetime experience! You get a to chance to meet other talented people from everywhere. It's also a place where you can be yourself and have a GREAT time doing so!!

GCP Girl: Tell me something you'd like everyone to know!
DS: I really enjoyed working with EVERYONE in the cast! I had an awesome time and I hope I get the chance again to work with everyone again!

Thanks, Desiree'! Your last chances to see "The Wiz" are tonight and tomorrow!

xo xo GCP Girl

"The Wiz" video cast profile: Kirk Scott

2010-11-26T17:01:00.003-05:00

Kirk Scott is not a very mean old lion in "The Wiz"!

"The Wiz" cast profile: Erik Ramos

2010-11-25T20:31:00.002-05:00

Erik Ramos is thankful to be back onstage as an ensemble member in "The Wiz'!

GCP Girl: Tell me about some of your previous shows.
ER: I've been doing theatre since about fourth grade and have been in about a dozen or so different plays and musicals. My favorites have been "You're A Good Man Charlie Brown," "Fiddler on the Roof," "HONK!," and "High School Musical."

GCP Girl: Why did you audition for this show?
ER: I initially got the idea because one of my best friends was in the cast of the production of "Singin' in the Rain" that GCP did last year and she had nothing but amazing things to say about the experience, so when I moved up here in August, I thought it would be a great way to meet people and to get back on stage again.

GCP Girl: What has been your favorite part of this experience so far?
ER: My favorite part of the experience has definitely been getting to know and hang out with everybody in the cast! This particular cast has a nice blend of people who have done a bunch of GCP shows, to people like me who are doing one for the first time; and the people who are veterans here have been so welcoming. Everybody is so talented and genuinely nice that it makes going to all the rehearsals and performances something that I really look forward to.

GCP Girl: If you could play any other character in the show, which one would you choose and why?
ER: I'd probably choose to play the part of the Scarecrow. I really love that character and the song he gets to sing is one of my favorites in the show.

GCP Girl: If you went to Oz instead of Dorothy, what would be your favorite part of the trip?
ER: I think interacting with all of the different kinds of characters would be my favorite part of a trip to Oz.

GCP Girl: Why do you think "The Wizard of Oz" is such a popular story with both children and adults?
ER: Because its a classic that encourages people to persevere and open themselves up to all different kinds of people. It's also just one of those stories that always leaves the audience in a good mood.

GCP Girl: What would you tell someone who is considering auditioning for a GCP show?
ER: I would tell them to go for it! Being a part of this show has been such a great experience for me. Like all auditions it's a little nervewracking at first, but everyone is so supportive and respectful of anyone who is on stage and whether you make it or not, it's still a great way to put yourself out there.

GCP Girl: Tell me something you'd like everyone to know!
ER: That the show is running till the 28th and it would be great if everyone could take the time to come out and see it!

Thanks, Erik! "The Wiz" is back on stage tomorrow night!

xo xo GCP Girl

"The Wiz" cast profile: Jack Polefko

2010-11-24T12:14:00.003-05:00

Every day is a brand new day for Jack Polefko as an ensemble member in "The Wiz"!

GCP Girl: Tell me about some of your previous shows.
JP: I began acting two years ago when I played Edgar in "Ragtime" at P.K. Yonge. The past two summers I have participated in the children's summer productions at the High Springs Community Theater. This past summer I was Prince Alexander in "The Spell of Sleeping Beauty." I was last seen at GCP as Jem in "To Kill a Mockingbird."

GCP Girl: Why did you audition for this show?
JP: I love the atmosphere at GCP and wanted some experience in a musical.

GCP Girl: What has been your favorite part of this experience so far?
JP: Being on stage with a great cast. They are amazingly talented and funny.

GCP Girl: If you could play any other character in the show, which one would you choose and why?
JP: I would play the Scarecrow because that character is clumsy and funny. Kevin does a great job dancing and acting as the Scarecrow.

GCP Girl: If you went to Oz instead of Dorothy, what would be your favorite part of the trip?
JP: My favorite part would be meeting Addaperle because she is hilarious.

GCP Girl: Why do you think "The Wizard of Oz" is such a popular story with both children and adults?
JP: I think it is so popular with children and adults because it fills people's imagination and teaches valuable lessons.

GCP Girl: What would you tell someone who is considering auditioning for a GCP show?
JP: I would tell them it's a great experience and they will have a great time no matter what.

GCP Girl: Tell me something you'd like everyone to know!
JP: The whole cast is amazing. I will never forget this experience.

Thanks, Jack! Remember, the theater is dark tonight and tomorrow for Thanksgiving, but "The Wiz" is back on Friday for its final weekend!

xo xo GCP Girl

"The Wiz" video cast profile: Howard Anderson

2010-11-23T11:17:00.002-05:00

Howard Anderson tugs at our heartstrings as the Tin Man in "The Wiz"!

"The Wiz" cast profile: Madeleine Escarne

2010-11-22T16:44:00.002-05:00

Madeleine Escarne brings sparkle and shine to the ensemble of "The Wiz"!

GCP Girl: Tell me about some of your previous shows.
ME: My first show was actually at GCP in "To Kill A Mockingbird." After that I did "The Commedia Voyages of Sinbad." A few shorts here and there and now..."The Wiz"!

GCP Girl: Why did you audition for this show?
ME: Ms. Rhonda Wilson was the director of "To Kill a Mockingbird" and said that she would be directing "The Wiz" in the fall. It was great working with Rhonda and the whole GCP family and I have always wanted to be a part of a musical, so I decided to audition.

GCP Girl: What has been your favorite part of this experience so far?
ME: The dancing! I love the dancing. I am such an introvert that it is hard for me to sometimes just step outside of my box. The dancing really helps me with that. And of course getting to meet all of the talented people that are involved with this production.

GCP Girl: If you could play any other character in the show, which one would you choose and why?
ME: I would want to be a Munchkin. They have so much fun "bubbling" and "fizzing" that it would be great to be a part of that number.

GCP Girl: If you went to Oz instead of Dorothy, what would be your favorite part of the trip?
ME: Getting to meet the Wiz!

GCP Girl: Why do you think "The Wizard of Oz" is such a popular story with both children and adults?
ME: Children love it because it deals in the realm of fantasy and make-believe. Kids can escape to "Oz" (thereby escaping their present situation) at any time just by clicking their heels three times. Parents love it because it proves that what a person may deem as lacking within only takes a little encouragment to discover that they had the potential all along.

GCP Girl: What would you tell someone who is considering auditioning for a GCP show?
ME: Go for it wholeheartedly. The thing about a volunteer theater is that it is a voluntary act. Despite the job, the house, the kids, people are at this theater because it is a passion of theirs. Each show really becomes a mini-family...since you end up spending so much time with them anyway!

GCP Girl: Tell me something you'd like everyone to know!
ME: I am truly thankful to God to enjoy doing something (acting) that I really have a passion for! Not many people find that thing that they are passionate about in their lifetime and I am grateful that I have. I love it!!!

Thanks, Madeleine! Remember, this week is your last chance to see "The Wiz"!

xo xo GCP Girl

"The Wiz" video cast profile: Kevin Anderson

2010-11-19T12:28:00.002-05:00

Ease on down the road with Kevin Anderson, the Scarecrow from "The Wiz"!

"The Wiz" crew profile: Caitlin Hunter

2010-11-18T11:03:00.003-05:00

GCP vet Caitlin Hunter lends a hand as the fly system operator on the crew of " The Wiz"! I also hear she made that fabulous Scarecrow costume...

GCP Girl: Tell me about some of your previous shows.
CH: This show actually marks my 20th production I've worked on at GCP! I've done stuff onstage and off; most recently, I was Falcon Ivy in "Peter Pan." Aside from acting in shows here, I've also done tech and been on the production team for a ton of shows, my favorites being "See How They Run" (AD) and "The Secret Garden" (ASM).

GCP Girl: Why did you volunteer for this show?
CH: I actually couldn't audition because of school, but I just asked Sarah if she needed me on tech, and she said yes. Most painless audition EVER :)

GCP Girl: What has been your favorite part of this experience so far?
CH: The people. Definitely. I love everyone I get to work with. These people genuinely care about each other. It's a great environment to be in.

GCP Girl: If you could be a character in the show, which one would you choose and why?
CH: Oh wow. A crow. Definitely one of the crows. They are so funny. Also, I love that song and dance to it in the wings. Well, I love "Brand New Day," too. I dance to that one in the wings as well...So, a Crow and a Winkie.

GCP Girl: If you went to Oz instead of Dorothy, what would be your favorite part of the trip?
CH: Randomly bursting into song and dance! I mean, who wouldn't find that the most fun part?

GCP Girl: Why do you think "The Wizard of Oz" is such a popular story with both children and adults?
CH: Who doesn't love a story about friendship and love? Honestly, "The Wizard of Oz" just instills people with so much hope. Hope that even in the darkest of times, you are always just three clicks away from people who love you. Even when you feel like you are lacking in something in your life, whether its a brain, a heart, courage, or something else, you can still be the best person you can be and get over that. Everyone needs to know that even with their short-comings, they are still worthy of love and compassion, and that you always have someone looking out for you.

GCP Girl: What would you tell someone who is considering auditioning for a GCP show?
CH: Don't be a stranger! Shows at GCP are not only a fantastic learning experience, but they also are a great place to meet people and create life-long friendships. I've met a lot of my best friends through the theatre. We won't bite. Come out and audition. We'd love to have you join our family!

GCP Girl: Tell me something you'd like everyone to know!
CH: "The Wiz" is a fantastic show and everyone should come out and see it! Everyone has worked extremely hard and we'd love to see your face in the audience!!!

Thanks, Caitlin! "The Wiz" is only on stage this week and next - get your tickets now!

xo xo GCP Girl

"The Wiz" Video Cast Profile: Nona Jones

2010-11-17T16:05:00.003-05:00

Our first video profile is Nona Jones, who plays Dorothy in "The Wiz"! Congrats on your first show, Nona!

"The Wiz" cast profile: Natalie Rollan

2010-11-15T13:36:00.002-05:00

UF sophomore Natalie Rollan gets back to her community theatre roots as an orchestra singer in "The Wiz"!

GCP Girl: Tell me about some of your previous shows.
NR: I've been in more than 20 musical productions since middle school. Some of my favorites include "Little Shop of Horrors," "Aida," "Beauty and the Beast," "Bye Bye Birdie," "The Pajama Game," and "Once on This Island."

GCP Girl: Why did you audition for this show?
NR: I haven't done theater since I graduated high school (I'm a sophomore at UF now) and I missed it. I was involved in community theatre back home in Miami and I really wanted to find a new theatre home here in Gainesville.

GCP Girl: What has been your favorite part of this experience so far?
NR: Working with so many different people has been the best part! It's great to work with people of so many different ages and backgrounds; I've learned a lot about teamwork during this show.

GCP Girl: If you could play any other character in the show, which one would you choose and why?
NR: It would be cool to play Evilene because she has an awesome song and villains are always super fun to play!

GCP Girl: If you went to Oz instead of Dorothy, what would be your favorite part of the trip?
NR: I think my favorite part would be meeting and going on the journey with the Scarecrow, Tin Man and Lion. I love meeting interesting new people (if you can call them that).

GCP Girl: Why do you think "The Wizard of Oz" is such a popular story with both children and adults?
NR: I think everyone can relate to the lessons the main characters learn on their unique journeys and the story is just so original and creative you can't help but fall in love with it!

GCP Girl: What would you tell someone who is considering auditioning for a GCP show?
NR: I would tell them to stop considering and just do it! I'm so happy I auditioned because not only am I a part of this wonderful show, but now I have a new home where I can express myself, learn more about theatre, and meet lots of great new people in the process.

GCP Girl: Tell me something you'd like everyone to know!
NR: I can't wait to audition for "Spelling Bee," and I hope to see lots of familiar faces when those auditions come around!

Thanks, Natalie! We hope you do!

xo xo GCP Girl

"The Wiz" cast profile: Kamauri Jenkins

2010-11-12T11:48:00.002-05:00

Kamauri Jenkins makes her stage debut as the First Munchkin and a winged monkey in "The Wiz"!

GCP Girl: Tell me about some of your previous shows.
KJ: This is my first theater show.

GCP Girl: Why did you audition for this show?
KJ: Because I like performing arts, I had never auditioned for anything and was going to give it a try to see what happened.

GCP Girl: What has been your favorite part of this experience so far?
KJ: The warm-up exercises and when the cast rehearsed their lines.

GCP Girl: If you could play any other character in the show, which one would you choose and why?
KJ: Addaperle. I would choose her because she is really funny in the play and does crazy stuff.

GCP Girl: If you went to Oz instead of Dorothy, what would be your favorite part of the trip?
KJ: The end when the Wiz was preaching and when they gave the gifts.

GCP Girl: Why do you think "The Wizard of Oz" is such a popular story with both children and adults?
KJ: Because it's funny.

GCP Girl: What would you tell someone who is considering auditioning for a GCP show?
KJ: They will have fun doing the show and practice makes perfect.

GCP Girl: Tell me something you'd like everyone to know!
KJ: This is a fun play and break a leg!

Thanks, Kamauri! Break a leg tonight!

xo xo GCP Girl

"The Wiz" cast profile: Cassie Martinez

2010-11-11T14:00:00.002-05:00

Newcomer Cassie Martinez lends her vocal talent as a pit singer in "The Wiz"!

GCP Girl: Tell me about some of your previous shows.
CM: I played Rose in "Gypsy," Velma in "Chicago," Grizabella in "Cats," Cosette in "Les Miserables," Cinderella and the Baker's Wife in "Into the Woods," Evelyn in "The Shape of Things," etc.

GCP Girl: Why did you audition for this show?
CM: I thought it would be a great way to meet new people and just an excellent experience in general.

GCP Girl: What has been your favorite part of this experience so far?
CM: Meeting so many great new people!

GCP Girl: If you could play any other character in the show, which one would you choose and why?
CM: Probably the Wiz, because it'd be cool to see a female Wiz for once!

GCP Girl: If you went to Oz instead of Dorothy, what would be your favorite part of the trip?
CM: The Emerald City; my favorite color is green.

GCP Girl: Why do you think "The Wizard of Oz" is such a popular story with both children and adults?
CM: Because it's a timeless story about the importance of imagination, dreams, and learning to be yourself.

GCP Girl: What would you tell someone who is considering auditioning for a GCP show?
CM: Go for it! It's a great experience.

GCP Girl: Tell me something you'd like everyone to know!
CM: I'd like to thank the cast for the wonderful experience, it's been a blast!

Thanks, Cassie! We'll be listening for you tonight!

xo xo GCP Girl

"The Wiz" gets a great review!

2010-11-11T09:51:00.001-05:00

Congrats to the cast and crew of "The Wiz" on a great review in the Gainesville Sun!

"The Wiz" cast profile: Kelley Addis

2010-11-10T13:01:00.005-05:00

Kelley Addis is bad news as Evillene, the Wicked Witch of the West, in "The Wiz"!

GCP Girl: Tell me about some of your previous shows.
KA: At GCP I've been in two previous shows, "The Producers" as Hold Me, Touch Me, and "A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum" as Domina. Before that, however, I was up in Chicago working as a professional actress. Some of those shows are "Tony N' Tina's Wedding" (Tina, Connie, Donna), "Guys and Dolls" (Miss Adelaide), "Jackie: An American Life" (Janet Bouvier, Ethel Kennedy, and others), and "The Wizard of Oz" (Munchkin, Guardian at the Gates, King of the Flying Monkeys). I was also in a couple of movies, "Spiderman II," "The Company," and "The Break Up," and appeared on Animal Planet in an episode of "Animal Witness."

GCP Girl: Why did you audition for this show?
KA: I was really excited to see this in the season because I really enjoy the music. It's a very upbeat show and I enjoy singing through it every night. Plus the characters of Oz are so iconic and over the top. I had to audition!

GCP Girl: What has been your favorite part of this experience so far?
KA: Definitely the cast!!! Every person in this cast has been so supportive and welcoming and wanting to make this an awesome ensemble show. It was really hard in the beginning as I wasn't needed for that many rehearsals in the beginning so I thought I would have a hard time fitting in as the rest of the cast had been working so closely together. I came in to rehearsal and was herded back into the mix so lovingly. It's definitely been awesome getting to know everyone.

GCP Girl: If you could play any other character in the show, which one would you choose and why?
KA: Either The Lion or Addaperle. The Lion gets all the good lines and the character really grows during the trip through Oz. That would be fun. Addaperle is just hilarious. Just a great comedic character. However, both Kirk and Amei play those parts so well I don't think I could really go to their level of awesome in those parts.

GCP Girl: If you went to Oz instead of Dorothy, what would be your favorite part of the trip?
KA: Getting those amazing silver slippers. They look fabulous and everyone seems to want them badly.

GCP Girl: Why do you think "The Wizard of Oz" is such a popular story with both children and adults?
KA: The story just speaks to everyone on different levels. As a child, you watch the movie and wonder at all the beauty that is Oz. You wish that your life could be as vibrant and beautiful. As you grow up, however, you realize the deeper meaning of the story. That although you can wish for beauty in life, the beauty is already around you. Life is beautiful and should be cherished! If you constantly go about the world daydreaming of a more exciting life...you might just get it, but you could miss out on all the wonderful things that already make your life enjoyable and a gift.

GCP Girl: What would you tell someone who is considering auditioning for a GCP show?
KA: Just go out and do it! Half of our cast are people who have never done a show with GCP before and have added such wonderful talent and personality to the show. Don't be intimidated by the process...we're all nervous. Just get up there and show them what you got. And don't get discouraged if you don't get in. Sometimes it's just not the right fit...there's been a couple of shows I've auditioned for at GCP, wasn't cast and hey...I got professional cred backing me up. Don't let that discourage you from trying again.

GCP Girl: Tell me something you'd like everyone to know!
KA: I have just graduated from The Florida School of Massage. So, if you're in need of some pain relief and relaxation, definitely contact me! kelleyaddis@gmail.com.

Thanks, Kelley! "The Wiz" is back on stage tonight at the Vam York!

xo xo GCP Girl

"The Wiz" cast profile: Shontae Khaleel White

2010-11-05T14:10:00.002-04:00

He's the Wiz and he lives in Oz...Shontae Khaleel White gives us the old razzle-dazzle in "The Wiz"!

GCP Girl: Tell me about some of your previous shows.
SW: At the GCP, I was Solomon in "45 Seconds from Broadway" and Reverend Sikes in "To Kill a Mockingbird." Other shows include Mereb in "AIDA," Richie in "A Chorus Line," C.C. in "Dreamgirls," etc.

GCP Girl: Why did you audition for this show?
SW: I was originally just the assistant director, and assumed the role of the Wiz after a casting change.

GCP Girl: What has been your favorite part of this experience so far?
SW: The musical itself...it is full of fun and interesting things that make every song and scene change exciting and cool. The music is very soulful and fun to sing and perform to.

GCP Girl: If you could play any other character in the show, which one would you choose and why?
SW: Hmm...probably Evilene, because "No Bad News" is a great song and the dance is awesome. If I only had pipes like Kelley does to sing it as well.

GCP Girl: If you went to Oz instead of Dorothy, what would be your favorite part of the trip?
SW: Probably going to the Poppy Field (that seems like fun) or Munchkinland, because those were some very nice people...I know it would not be Evilene's Castle.

GCP Girl: Why do you think "The Wizard of Oz" is such a popular story with both children and adults?
SW: It is so popular because it's a story about hope and dreams. It allows you to love yourself as yourself and believe in things that you know in your heart are true. It gives you the motivation and the drive to make it true.

GCP Girl: What would you tell someone who is considering auditioning for a GCP show?
SW: Go for it...it's is an exciting experience. Just make sure you pick a song that shows off your vocal range and your personality. Always bring sheet music if you have it and a list of all your major conflicts.

GCP Girl: Tell me something you'd like everyone to know!
SW: That I love working on this show in both capacities. I have learned a great deal working on this show and am so proud of the cast. It's not good enough to know where you are going...you have to know where you have been.

Tonight is opening night! Break a leg, everyone!

xo xo GCP Girl

"The Wiz" preview article!

2010-11-04T10:47:00.002-04:00

Our friends at the Gainesville Sun have this sneak preview for you! Enjoy, and we'll see you tonight!

Spotlight on "The Wizard of Oz": An American Classic

2010-11-02T15:15:00.010-04:00

"The Wizard of Oz" is one of the most popular stories in our culture, beloved by children and adults around the world. It has been adapted many times to stage and screen; one of those adaptations, "The Wiz," opens this week at the Vam York Theater.

"The Wonderful Wizard of Oz" by L. Frank Baum was published in 1900 to critical acclaim, and the first Broadway musical adaptation was staged in 1902. Baum went on to write 12 more books about Oz, although none are so well-remembered as the first. It has been translated into more than 50 languages.

The 1939 MGM film starring Judy Garland and Ray Bolger has also become a classic, although the screenplay takes major liberties with Baum's story. In the movie, Dorothy's slippers are ruby red, not silver; much of the quartet's journeys to the different parts of Oz are abridged; and the ending hints that Dorothy dreamed the whole experience.

"The Wizard of Oz" was adapted for the stage in 1975 by Charlie Smalls in "The Wiz," a retelling of the story in the context of African-American culture, and was an early example of works with an all-black cast. The show, which follows Baum's original story more closely than the 1939 movie (although in a more urban context), won seven Tony Awards and ran for four years. The movie version in 1978, which starred Diana Ross, Michael Jackson, Richard Pryor and Lena Horne, never achieved the same acclaim as the stage musical.

Baum's characters found new life again on the Broadway stage in 2003 with Stephen Schwartz's adaptation of Gregory Maguire's "Wicked," a parallel novel that told the story from the perspective of the witches of Oz. "Wicked" received three Tony Awards and is still running, seven years later.

"The Wizard of Oz" has proved to be an enduring favorite in all its incarnations, and "The Wiz" is a welcome addition to this holiday season at the Vam York Theater. Make plans to see it with your families! Preview is this Thursday!

xo xo GCP Girl

Laura Carmichael Award winners

2010-10-05T14:44:00.003-04:00

Congrats to Carolyn Lloyd, Emily Hart, Daniel Liezert, Tomm Lovett and Jessica Blackband, who are the first recipients of the GCP's Laura Carmichael Award! The award was presented last month to these high school seniors before a performance of "45 Seconds From Broadway."

Each student received a plaque and a set of GCP flex tickets for themselves and a guest. The award was formerly bestowed by the Hippodrome Theatre as the Malcolm Gets Award.

Congratulations, everyone! More gossip to come – "The Wiz" is gearing up!

xo xo GCP Girl

"45 Seconds" Set Photos!

2010-09-24T10:52:00.006-04:00

Well, well, well...looks like the "45 Seconds" set designer has thrown down the challenge for this season! The race for the Apple is on, folks!

"The Wiz" cast list!

2010-09-17T13:43:00.003-04:00

Congrats to the cast of "The Wiz"!

Dorothy - Nona Jones
Aunt Em - Ryoanne McKnight
Uncle Henry/Messenger/Ensemble - Bryan Faux
Addaperle/Ensemble - Amei Soleyn
Tin Man - Howard Anderson
Lion - Kirk Scott
Scarecrow - Kevin Anderson
The Wiz - Adrian James
Evillene - Kelley Addis
Royal Gatekeeper/Ensemble - Malik Grady
Glinda/Dancer/Ensemble - Anquetta Carr
Lord High Underling/Dancer - Demario Major
First Winkie/Ensemble - Antwan Richardson
Winged Monkey/Dancer - Odoris Hines
First Mouse - Alex Christophy
Second Mouse - Joey McGinn
Crows - Antwan Richardson, Thomas Sanders, Madeleine Escarne, Andrew McNally, Demario Major
Munchkins - Ariel Dykes, C'Javia Jones, Jack Pelefko, Kamauri Jenkins, Molly Washington, Brandon Hall, Rakira Clark, Jordan Williams, Asha James, Tova Blasberg, Ikiah Young, Thomas Sanders, Demario Major
First Citizen/Ensemble - Madeleine Escarne
Second Citizen/Ensemble - Ikiah Young
Third Citizen - Eric Ramos
Fourth Citizen - Jordan Williams
Monkeys - Nathan Blakeslee, Alex Christophy, Joey McGinn, Brandon Hall, Jack Pelefko
Ensemble - Madeleine Escarne, Jordan Williams, Ikiah Young, Asha James, Eric Ramos, Nathan Blakeslee, Rakira Clark
Featured Dancers - Tinesha Carr, Stephanie Johnson, Desiree Salter
Dance Team - Tova Blasberg, Thomas Sanders, Andrew McNally, Odoris Hines, Demario Major

GCP Girl: Poet's Corner edition

2010-09-17T11:44:00.005-04:00

I don't know if the Polish Tea Room has poetry readings or open mike nights, but Bernie and Zelda should consider it. Here's a little something to brighten your Friday!

There once was a deli in New York
With food you could spear with a fork
Chopped liver and knishes
Were put upon dishes
But never an order of pork!

xo xo GCP Girl

"45 Seconds" Cast Profile: Jan Cohen

2010-09-16T14:14:00.002-04:00

Jan Cohen runs the show at the Polish Tea Room as Zelda in "45 Seconds"!

GCP Girl: Tell me about some of your previous shows.
JC: Other "ladies of a certain age" roles include Willie Mae in "The Sugar Bean Sisters," Mama Wheelis in "Daddy's Dying," Rebecca Nurse in "The Crucible," and Hecuba in "Trojan Women."

GCP Girl: What is your actual "day job"?
JC: I am currently the volunteer box office manager at GCP.

GCP Girl: Why did you audition for this show?
JC: I love Jennie Stringfellow and Consuelo Dodge.

GCP Girl: What has been your favorite part of this experience so far?
JC: Really running the restaurant in the background of scenes.

GCP Girl: "45 Seconds" has a lot of characters with different backgrounds and personalities. If you could play any other character in the show, which one would you choose and why?
JC: Charles--very few lines and great facial expressions!

GCP Girl: What would you order at the Polish Tea Room?
JC: New York cheesecake.

GCP Girl: What would you tell someone who is considering auditioning for a GCP show?
JC: Read the play if you can before you go. Arrive for auditions early and don't mess the director around beforehand--viz asking to borrow a script and then not showing up or not returning it on time.

GCP Girl: Tell me something you'd like everyone to know!
JC: If anyone gets a chance to see some real South African plays (no offense, Solomon!), do it. There are some real masterpieces that have come out of there in the last 30-40 years, particularly from The Market Theatre.

Thanks, Jan! Save me a piece of cheesecake for after the show!

xo xo GCP Girl

Auditions for "The Wiz"!

2010-09-11T17:24:00.002-04:00

Don't forget, auditions for "The Wiz" are Sunday, September 12 and Monday, September 13. I hear director Rhonda Wilson is looking to make this a multicultural cast, so take a look at the list of roles below and head to the GCP to audition! More general audition tips are available in the January 2009 post.

Dorothy - mezzo
Scarecrow - tenor
Tin Man - baritone
Lion - baritone
Addaperle - mezzo
Evillene - alto
Glinda - alto
Wizard - tenor
Aunt Em - mezzo
Yellow Brick Road/Wiz entourage (females)
Tornado Dancers (females)
Royal Gate Keeper - spoken
Uncle Henry - spoken
Head Monkey - spoken
High Lord Underling -
Messenger -
Crows
Ensemble

Break a leg!

xo xo GCP Girl

"45 Seconds" Cast Profile: Henry Wihnyk

2010-09-10T13:32:00.002-04:00

GCP's resident funnyman Henry Wihnyk, fresh off his Golden Apple win for Best Actor in a Play, hams it up as Broadway funnyman Mickey Fox in Neil Simon's "45 Seconds from Broadway," opening tonight at the Vam York!

GCP Girl: Tell me about some of your previous shows.
HW: I had a great time performing in "Funny Money," a fabulous, silly farce.

GCP Girl: What is your actual "day job"?
HW: I am a law faculty member at UF.

GCP Girl: Why did you audition for this show?
HW: I liked the character, and I love working on shows with Jennie.

GCP Girl: What has been your favorite part of this experience so far?
HW: Eating the food! Also, “talking” with Andrew Duncan (Jeff) at Mickey’s table during the first scene of Act One.

GCP Girl: "45 Seconds" has a lot of characters with different backgrounds and personalities. If you could play any other character in the show, which one would you choose and why?
HW: Rayleen. Her character steals the show!

GCP Girl: What would you order at the Polish Tea Room?
HW: The roast turkey and chicken liver sandwich – my favorite – I order it at Toojays all the time!

GCP Girl: What would you tell someone who is considering auditioning for a GCP show?
HW: Do it!

GCP Girl: Tell me something you'd like everyone to know!
HW: The rain is Spain, is, in fact, better than a sunboin in Toikey!

Thanks, Henry – we'll keep that in mind! Break a leg this weekend! Don't forget, you can now get your tickets at the box office in the Vam York lobby!

xo xo GCP Girl

Spotlight on Neil Simon

2010-09-09T13:46:00.002-04:00

Three-time Tony Award winner Neil Simon is the author of "45 Seconds from Broadway," which premieres this week at the Vam York Theater.

Simon was born July 4, 1927 in The Bronx, and grew up in Washington Heights. Before turning his attention to the stage, he wrote for hit television shows, including "The Phil Silvers Show," "Your Show of Shows" and "Sergeant Bilko."

His first Broadway play, "Come Blow Your Horn," premiered in 1961 and ran for 678 performances. He went on to write other hits, including "Sweet Charity," "The Star-Spangled Girl," "The Odd Couple," "Barefoot in the Park," Brighton Beach Memoirs," and "Lost in Yonkers." Simon received Tony Awards for "The Odd Couple," "Biloxi Blues" and "Lost in Yonkers," and also received a Pulitzer Prize for "Lost in Yonkers."

The restaurant in "45 Seconds" is based on a coffee shop adjacent to Manhattan's Hotel Edison, a hot spot for Broadway hopefuls located just off Broadway. The play is a slice-of-life look at the action in the cafe through the seasons, and events in the lives of those who frequent the Polish Tea Room.

Golden Apples Recap!

2010-08-09T10:40:00.003-04:00

Congrats to the Golden Apple award recipients for the 2009-10 season! In case you missed it, here is a list of the winners:

Actor in a Minor Role: Alan Medrano, "The Producers"
Actress in a Minor Role: Pat Thomson, "Funny Money"
Choreography: Susan Christophy and Hannah Stahmer, "The Producers"
Supporting Actor in a Play: Adam Lishawa, "Funny Money"
Supporting Actress in a Play: Lola Hassan-Adams, "Funny Money"
Sound: Kristin Paulson, "The Producers"
Properties: Erin Kleim, "The Producers"
Supporting Actor in a Musical: Jonathan Gravely, "The Producers"
Supporting Actress in a Musical: Sarah Egar-Nesselroade, "Singin' in the Rain"
Lighting: Thomas Muhn, "The Producers"
Actor in a Play: Henry Wihnyk, "Funny Money"
Actress in a Play: Leannis Maxwell, "Funny Money"
GCP Scholarship Recipient: Caitlin Hunter, Gainesville High School
Costumes: Pat Thomson, Marihelen Wheeler and Rhonda Wilson, "The Producers"
Set Design: Thomas Muhn, "The Producers"
Actor in a Musical: Thomas Sanders, "The Producers"
Actress in a Musical: Leannis Maxwell, "The Producers"
STAR Award: Teddy Rancourt
Excellence in Technical Execution: "The Producers"
Excellence in Artistic Design: "To Kill a Mockingbird"
President's Cup: Dr. Ken Pierson
Best Play: "Funny Money"
Best Musical: "The Producers"

Thanks to the Golden Apples Chorus for a look at the past 10 years of Apples winners, and a special thanks to guest performers John Carmean, Frank Edmonson and Hannah Peterson! Here's to another 10 years of great memories!

I'm going to take a short break, but we'll be back before "45 Seconds From Broadway" gets cranked up. Enjoy what's left of the summer!

xo xo GCP Girl

"The Producers" guest blog: Nicholas May

2010-08-01T11:26:00.002-04:00

GCP newbie Nick May tells us about his experience in "The Producers"!

"A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum" was my first musical, and I had such a great time with it I wanted to give it another go. That, and it was the perfect opportunity to not only work with old friends (from the last show), but to make new ones as well. "The Producers" has a much larger cast, and these days I'm all about new experiences. In the past it seemed that the more people you throw into a project, the larger margin of error. That's why it was such a pleasant surprise to discover how well this cast and crew united together to produce such a wonderful show.
What's there not to like about "The Producers"? Each and every show has been amazing! When the day job ends and the lights go up on stage, everyone is transported to another place, our own private universe. Each role made me a part of a new and exciting group. The troupe that goosesteps together stays together! And come on, it's Mel Brooks! Who wouldn't want to be a part of that?

Thanks, Nick! Today is the last chance to see "The Producers" before it closes!

xo xo GCP Girl

"The Producers" cast profile: Thomas Sanders

2010-07-31T09:18:00.003-04:00

Thomas Sanders just wants to be a producer...

GCP Girl: Tell me about some of your previous shows.
TS: I was most recently seen in “A Funny Thing…” as Hysterium and “Singin’ in the Rain” as Don Lockwood. I’ve also played Slightly Soiled in “Peter Pan,” Ko-Ko in “Hot Mikado,” and Cornelius Hackl in “Hello Dolly!”. I can’t get enough of the GCP stage, ha ha.

GCP Girl: What is your actual "day job"?
TS: Well, I’m a chemical engineering student at UF, and I’m also a sales associate at Gator Mania in the mall. Come visit me there when you get the chance!

GCP Girl: Why did you audition for this show?
TS: I was last in an Erin Kleim show last summer for “Peter Pan” and she does a really thorough job for shows in order to make it an amazing spectacle. I wanted to be a part of that again this year, and the experience is once again the same! Mel Brooks is also an awesome comedic genius who has always had a passion for Broadway, which you can find in almost all of his movies, and this is not demonstrated any better than his show “The Producers.” I definitely hoped to make his vision come true.

GCP Girl: What has been your favorite part of this experience so far?
TS: Definitely working with such an awesome and talented cast! I mean, I can’t say enough about Bryan, Esteban, Leannis, Jonathan, and Alan. They ALL bring so much to the table! Not to mention the amazing skills from each and every person in the ensemble, tech, and production crew! Every night in the dressing room, the guys always have me cracking up, which has been the icing on the cake! I’ve made so many new friends and Erin has been such an awesome director. I can’t thank her enough for the opportunity!

GCP Girl: What is your favorite number in the show, and why?
TS: Wow, that one is tough…“Der Guten Tag Hop Clop” is definitely up there, along with “Keep it Gay” and “When You Got It, Flaunt It”! But every song in this show is done so well, I couldn’t pick a least favorite number even if I tried!

GCP Girl: What is your favorite Mel Brooks movie?
TS: That would have to be "Robin Hood: Men in Tights"! There’s still parts of that movie that I laugh at just thinking about it!

GCP Girl: What would you tell someone who is considering auditioning for a GCP show?
TS: Please, please, please just come out and show them what you have! There is absolutely NO reason for anyone to feel intimidated or less talented, and you could have exactly what the director is looking for. The GCP is constantly dedicated to casting at least one new person each and every show. The opportunity for making new friends is always here, so please, it is definitely worth a try!

GCP Girl: What does community theatre mean to you?
TS: For me, it is one of the best demonstrations of community in general. This entire production has been made possible by normal Gainesville citizens, whether workers or students, who have dedicated their nights, weekends, and even weekdays to making the production as perfect as they can. These normal people work together to provide a night of entertainment for the public, simply because of their united love of theatre. It is just so cool to be a part of that.

GCP Girl: Tell me something you'd like everyone to know!
TS: Although my degree is in chemical engineering, I would really like to continue to pursue acting for a very long time. It hasn’t hindered me so far!

Thanks, Thomas! Only two more chances to see "The Producers" – don't miss it!

xo xo GCP Girl

"The Producers" cast profile: Esteban Alvarez III

2010-07-29T11:55:00.003-04:00

Esteban Alvarez III gets his second chance at a dream role this season as Max Bialystock in "The Producers"!

GCP Girl: Tell me about some of your previous shows.
EA: Well, this is my 11th show here at the GCP. I've recently been in "A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum" and "Nuncrackers."

GCP Girl: What is your actual "day job"?
EA: I am entering my third year of law school...that is enough of a job for me.

GCP Girl: Why did you audition for this show?
EA: I have wanted to play Max Bialystock since I first heard about "The Producers.' When I heard that Erin was even proposing it...I started freaking out. So, when the opportunity finally arose to audition for one of my dream roles...I had to take it.

GCP Girl: What has been your favorite part of this experience so far?
EA: My favorite experiences from doing GCP shows are always the same...getting to work with talented people. I love being able to meet new and talented people. Also, getting to work with Le and Erin. Erin has, by far, been one of my favorite directors with whom I've worked.

GCP Girl: What is your favorite number in the show, and why?
EA: I love getting to do "Betrayed" every night. It is so exhausting but a lot of fun. However, my all-time favorite number is "When You Got It"...I love hearing Le belt those notes!

GCP Girl: What is your favorite Mel Brooks movie?
EA: "Young Frankenstein"...although I have not seen "Robin Hood: Men in Tights" yet.

GCP Girl: What would you tell someone who is considering auditioning for a GCP show?
EA: Just go for it! Don't listen to anybody that tells you otherwise. So you can't sing? AUDITION! You might find out you are a great actor or dancer. It is easy to say, "Don't be nervous." But who are we kidding? EVERYONE is nervous up there. I can hardly keep my hand from visibly shaking.

GCP Girl: What does community theatre mean to you?
EA: Community theatre means just that...community. Community theatre is about building relationships and giving back to the community. There is no place for elitist attitudes in community theatre, ha ha.

GCP Girl: Tell me something you'd like everyone to know!
EA: I have yet to see "The Godfather"...

Thanks, Esteban! Only four more chances to see "The Producers" – get your tickets now before they sell out!

xo xo GCP Girl

"The Producers" video cast profile: The Pigeons!

2010-07-28T10:00:00.001-04:00

I got the chance to talk to the real stars of the show – the pigeons! Check out the video profile!

"The Producers" guest blog: Malik Grady

2010-07-26T12:00:00.003-04:00

For today's profile, I asked ensemble member Malik Grady to give us his perspective on the show! Malik has been in several GCP productions, including performing as the Leading Player in "Pippin" last season.

When I heard that The Producers was being proposed as a show at the GCP, I went against my supposed nature as an optimist and took every opportunity to gleefully pour cold water on the idea.
"Not gonna happen."
"Yeah, right -- homosexuals and Nazis at the GCP -- sounds like you picked the wrong week to stop taking Amphetamines."
When the show was accepted, however (which I'm still amazed by), I knew that I had to be a part of it, no matter what. I knew that the show along with Erin directing would attract the very best talent that the area had to offer, meaning that even previous leads would shine as supporting roles.
BUT, unlike "Peter Pan," which had a similar level of star quality, "The Producers" is unleavened by urchins (children), which brings an entirely different flavor to the backstage proceedings. I looked forward to working with other "grown folk" like Thunder Dan, K-Sario, Houston, Ed and Mike, as well as my boys Sandbags, Fauxworthy, Bobby and Esteban.
And that was before I knew that Sarah would be one of the stage managers!
The reality has exceeded my already-inflated expectations. The people I already knew have come through, of course, but Alan, the Double-Nickles and Richard have been synergistic additions as well.
I feel a little bad for the women of the show, 'cause let's face it, the beauty, starting with Sarah and going on down to the director, is definitely on the female side, but we're not complaining, ladies. Gorgeous, loving, interesting, sharp, strong women, each and every one of you.
I relish my first and only chance to have NINE disparate characters, each with their own getups and style. I think that my Bavarian Peasant and Stormtrooper are the only two for whom I don't think I have "personaes" for, and that's just because they're all about action and getting into the costume!
Really, though, I judge shows by which performances I am compelled to watch nightly from the wings.
In "Seven Brides," Thomas showed he would sell taking a punch EVERY night, and Erin killed me with her "FISHIN" line. In "Hot Mikado," Thomas's chemistry and performance with Susan as Katisha was a platinum-set diamond gem ALL the time, and I could listen to Bryan's voice trying to woo "Jane Eyre" a thousand times.
Watching the old ladies in the courtroom outdoing each other every night from the wings is as good as anything I've seen, though. The only way it could be better is if y'all actually WERE zombies and also fought each other more often.
Honestly? My one regret about this show is that there isn't more time OFF stage between shows for us all to hang out. This is probably my very best theater experience, and that's saying something, because I effing LOVED working with the people in "Hot Mikado" and of course having what was likely a "career" role in "Pippin." I wish we had two more Fridays to hang at Splitz, or get together for a game night, or a potluck, or whatever.
I'm a gushy bastard, but I don't lie about this type of stuff. I love all of y'all and have enjoyed working with everyone in this cast and crew -- even ESTEBAN -- and he'll tell you that that's saying something!

Malik