Laura Fine News

The 1980 film Xanadu is known for being a notoriously bad movie. In 2007 it was adapted into a stage musical by Douglas Carter Beane, featuring songs from the film written by Jeff Lynne and John Farrar. This summer, Stages Repertory Theatre is presenting the candy-coated confection as their giddy summer musical. The end product couldn't be more fun, frivolous, and everything audiences would want from the campy, fun show.

As a signature Summer event, Dallas's Laura Rathe Fine Art hosts 'Night in Summer White', an artist reception featuring current and past works by notable contemporary photographer, George Krause. On Saturday, June 28th from 5-8pm, patrons and photography enthusiasts dressed and adorned in all-white attire will have the unique opportunity to have the artist shoot their portrait with his signature light-box technique, as demonstrated in his 'Sfumato' series. Portraits will be available for purchase in 3 different sizes, and Krause will be available for private commissions. Krause's 'Sfumato' series differs from conventional portraiture with the primary light source coming from behind the subject, creating a dramatic effect where principal features are cast in shadows, while secondary facial features are highlighted. About The Artist George Krause was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania in 1937 and received his training at the Philadelphia College of Art. He received the first Prix de Rome and the first Fulbright/Hays grant ever awarded to a photographer, two Guggenheim fellowships and three grants from the National Endowment for the Arts. Krause's photographs are displayed in major museum collections including the Museum of Modern Art in New York, the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, The Philadelphia Museum of Art, and the Bibliothèque Nationale in Paris. In 1993 he was honored as the Texas Artist of the Year. Fellow English photographer and Professor, Mark Power, describes Krause's style and body of work by stating, 'His work is like the obverse side of Cartier-Bresson's coin; his strongest photographs, for me, capture those indecisive moments when man's persona takes over, moments when the spirit transcends the flesh; girls walking up stairs and changing to Alice-in-Wonderland, doors turning into faces, men metamorphosing into gods, gargoyles stepping off walls, tenuous moments when stone turns to flesh, or flesh to stone, and myth and legend walk among us.' ABbout Laura Rathe Fine Art Formally established in 1998, Laura Rathe Fine Art represents a dynamic artist roster including emerging, mid-career, as well as blue-chip contemporary artists. With a primary focus on abstract expressionist painters, LRFA also represents diverse sculptors, mixed media artists, as well as photographers. Located in the heart of the gallery and design districts of Houston and Dallas, Texas, LRFA provides art consultation services, hosts artist exhibitions and actively participates in notable art fairs. Working closely with private and public collectors, LRFA artists have been acquired into world-renowned corporate art collections, including BBVA Compass and HKS Architects Headquarters. For additional information, details or to schedule an interview, please contact 214.761.2000 &/or : Janice Meyers, Director - Janice@LauraRathe.com Courtney Feavel, Assistant Director - Courtney@LauraRathe.com

Acclaimed Houston gallery, Laura Rathe Fine Art, announces the exhibition of new paintings by Nicole Charbonnet and Rosemary Barile with an opening reception on Saturday, June 7th, 2014, from 6 - 9pm. The Erased collection will be on view through July 5, 2014. About the Artists Nicole Charbonnet LRFA introduces Nicole Charbonnet, painter from New Orleans, LA, with her first exhibition in Houston. Charbonnet's multi-layered, textural paintings serve as a metaphor for the phenomenon of recollection. Her work embodies the processes of memory through layers of watery washes of paint, reminiscent of frescos, that veil images of popular culture. From cowboys to comic book figures, Charbonnet uncovers and recovers these images to portray the nuances of memory. Her paintings are ultimately the combination of what she calls the 'superimposition of textures, images, collage, words and paint which create surfaces that retain or reveal a memory of preexisting stages' where some images remain visible and others are obscured. After graduating from the University of Virginia, Charbonnet went on to receive her MFA from Boston University where she served as a Teacher's Assistant. She has been featured in many solo shows across the country and has been awarded numerous foundation grants, fellowships, and residencies. Rosemary Barile The Sante Fe artist, Rosemary Barile, is heavily influenced by Japanese fiber art. Silk is incorporated into the majority of her panels onto which she employs Shibori (resist) dyeing techniques. The fabric is rusted against metal or oxidized on copper building intricate patterns reminiscent of those found in nature. All together with encaustic; a combination of molten, pigmented beeswax and damar resin that hardens as it cools, the paintings are uniquely organic with a serene, soothing quality. Barile received both her BFA and MFA from the University of Washington in Seattle and attended the Shibori Symposium in Japan. Her work has been exhibited throughout the United States. About Laura Rathe Fine Art Formally established in 1998, Laura Rathe Fine Art represents a dynamic artist roster including emerging, mid-career, as well as blue-chip contemporary artists. With a primary focus on abstract expressionist painters, LRFA also represents sculptors, mixed media artists, and photographers. Located in the heart of the gallery and design districts of Houston and Dallas, Texas, LRFA provides art consultation services, hosts exhibitions and actively participates in notable art fairs. LRFA artists have been acquired into important private collections, as well as world-renowned corporate art collections, including BBVA Compass and HKS Architects Headquarters. For additional information, details or to schedule an interview, please contact Hannah Reuter, Assistant Director Hannah@LauraRathe.com &/or 713.527.7700

Laura Rathe Fine Art Presents New Abstract Paintings by Meredith Pardue In Houston, TX Acclaimed Houston gallery, Laura Rathe Fine Art, announces the exhibition, 'Stardust to Stardust,' presenting the newest series of abstract paintings by Meredith Pardue, with an opening reception today, May 3rd, 2014, from 6 - 9pm. The 'Stardust to Stardust' collection will be on view through May 31, 2014. About The Artist Meredith Pardue is back in Houston for her fifth solo show at LRFA. Known for vivid color juxtaposed to white negative space, her canvases express energy as well as a sense of calm. At an early age Pardue wanted to be an artist, which led her to study painting at Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) and subsequently at Parson School of Design where she received her M.F.A. in 2003. With oil, ink and oil crayon, Pardue creates rich color and texture that exude her love of nature, especially the physical beauty of her native Louisiana. In describing her technique she says, 'I combine random acts of painting with controlled, deliberate mark making to describe each form in my work, which often appears floral or plantlike in structure. The canvases are composed of organic forms that are similar to and possibly even derivative of those found in nature, but ultimately the paintings are a visual record of an unplanned dialog between myself and a blank canvas. Together the marks and forms create a visual language that reads as something unique to each viewer.' Since one of her first exhibitions at the Levee Gallery, Monroe, LA, in 1998, Pardue has had countless solo shows in Texas, New York, California and Louisiana, as well as regular inclusion in group exhibitions. Her work has been featured a variety of art and design magazines, including Art Ltd, Professional Artist, and Architectural Digest and she is represented in the collections of JCrew Corporate Headquarters, Genstar Capitol, The Michael and Susan Dell Foundation and BBVA Compass. About Laura Rathe Fine Art Formally established in 1998, Laura Rathe Fine Art represents a dynamic artist roster including emerging, mid-career, as well as blue-chip contemporary artists. With a primary focus on abstract expressionist painters, LRFA also represents diverse sculptors, mixed media artists, and photographers. Located in the heart of the gallery and design districts of Houston and Dallas, Texas, LRFA provides art consultation services, hosts exhibitions and actively participates in notable art fairs. Working closely with private and public collectors, LRFA artists have been acquired into world-renowned corporate art collections, including BBVA Compass and HKS Architects Headquarters. Laura Rathe Fine Art 2707 Colquitt St Houston, TX 77098 Meredith Pardue: Stardust to Stardust

Laura Rathe Fine Art Presents New Abstract Paintings by Meredith Pardue In Houston, TX Acclaimed Houston gallery, Laura Rathe Fine Art, announces the exhibition, 'Stardust to Stardust,' presenting the newest series of abstract paintings by Meredith Pardue, with an opening reception on Saturday, May 3rd, 2014, from 6 - 9pm. The 'Stardust to Stardust' collection will be on view through May 31, 2014. About The Artist Meredith Pardue is back in Houston for her fifth solo show at LRFA. Known for vivid color juxtaposed to white negative space, her canvases express energy as well as a sense of calm. At an early age Pardue wanted to be an artist, which led her to study painting at Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) and subsequently at Parson School of Design where she received her M.F.A. in 2003. With oil, ink and oil crayon, Pardue creates rich color and texture that exude her love of nature, especially the physical beauty of her native Louisiana. In describing her technique she says, 'I combine random acts of painting with controlled, deliberate mark making to describe each form in my work, which often appears floral or plantlike in structure. The canvases are composed of organic forms that are similar to and possibly even derivative of those found in nature, but ultimately the paintings are a visual record of an unplanned dialog between myself and a blank canvas. Together the marks and forms create a visual language that reads as something unique to each viewer.' Since one of her first exhibitions at the Levee Gallery, Monroe, LA, in 1998, Pardue has had countless solo shows in Texas, New York, California and Louisiana, as well as regular inclusion in group exhibitions. Her work has been featured a variety of art and design magazines, including Art Ltd, Professional Artist, and Architectural Digest and she is represented in the collections of JCrew Corporate Headquarters, Genstar Capitol, The Michael and Susan Dell Foundation and BBVA Compass. About Laura Rathe Fine Art Formally established in 1998, Laura Rathe Fine Art represents a dynamic artist roster including emerging, mid-career, as well as blue-chip contemporary artists. With a primary focus on abstract expressionist painters, LRFA also represents diverse sculptors, mixed media artists, and photographers. Located in the heart of the gallery and design districts of Houston and Dallas, Texas, LRFA provides art consultation services, hosts exhibitions and actively participates in notable art fairs. Working closely with private and public collectors, LRFA artists have been acquired into world-renowned corporate art collections, including BBVA Compass and HKS Architects Headquarters. Laura Rathe Fine Art 2707 Colquitt St Houston, TX 77098 Meredith Pardue: Stardust to Stardust

The World Premiere production of MURDER BALLAD at MTC's The Studio at Stage II took New York by storm in 2012. In 2013 it transferred to the Union Square Theatre and played 17 previews and 70 regular performances before closing on July 21. Now, TUTS Underground is producing the National Regional Premiere of the exhilarating, crowd-pleasing musical, and this sultry tale of love, passion, and murder is simply too good to miss.

Laura Rathe Fine Art Presents New Abstract Paintings by Meredith Pardue In Houston, TX Acclaimed Houston gallery, Laura Rathe Fine Art, announces the exhibition of new, abstract paintings by Meredith Pardue, Stardust to Stardust with an opening reception on Saturday, May 3rd, 2014, from 6 - 9pm. The Stardust to Stardust collection will be on view through April 26, 2014. About The Artist Meredith Pardue is back in Houston for her fifth solo show at LRFA. Known for vivid color juxtaposed to white negative space, her canvases express energy as well as a sense of calm. At an early age Pardue wanted to be an artist, which led her to study painting at Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) and subsequently at Parson School of Design where she received her M.F.A. in 2003. With oil, ink and oil crayon, Pardue creates rich color and texture that exude her love of nature, especially the physical beauty of her native Louisiana. In describing her technique she says, 'I combine random acts of painting with controlled, deliberate mark making to describe each form in my work, which often appears floral or plantlike in structure. The canvases are composed of organic forms that are similar to and possibly even derivative of those found in nature, but ultimately the paintings are a visual record of an unplanned dialog between myself and a blank canvas. Together the marks and forms create a visual language that reads as something unique to each viewer.' Since one of her first exhibitions at the Levee Gallery, Monroe, LA, in 1998, Pardue has had countless solo shows in Texas, New York, California and Louisiana, as well as regular inclusion in group exhibitions. Her work has been featured a variety of art and design magazines, including Art Ltd, Professional Artist, and Architectural Digest and she is represented in the collections of JCrew Corporate Headquarters, Genstar Capitol, The Michael and Susan Dell Foundation and BBVA Compass. About Laura Rathe Fine Art Formally established in 1998, Laura Rathe Fine Art represents a dynamic artist roster including emerging, mid-career, as well as blue-chip contemporary artists. With a primary focus on abstract expressionist painters, LRFA also represents diverse sculptors, mixed media artists, and photographers. Located in the heart of the gallery and design districts of Houston and Dallas, Texas, LRFA provides art consultation services, hosts exhibitions and actively participates in notable art fairs. Working closely with private and public collectors, LRFA artists have been acquired into world-renowned corporate art collections, including BBVA Compass and HKS Architects Headquarters. Laura Rathe Fine Art 2707 Colquitt St Houston, TX 77098 Meredith Pardue: Stardust to Stardust

Following a successful opening year, Dallas's Laura Rathe Fine Art marks its first year anniversary on Saturday, February 22nd from 6-9pm, with the 'ONE' exhibition and reception featuring various new works by established roster artists, as well as an exclusive first look at the gallery's debut artists. For the continuous support and patronage received throughout LRFA's inaugural year in Dallas, gallery artists will create 'ONE' signature and unique piece that will reflect an expression of gratitude. The 'ONE' collection will be on display through March 29, 2014. First Year Overview Since the gallery's introductory grand opening exhibition, 'See' in February 2013, Laura Rathe Fine Art has proudly shown various local and regional contemporary artists, including Meredith Pardue and Roi James, as well as internationally acclaimed photographer, Steve McCurry and California metal sculptor, Matt Devine. In addition to presenting artist openings and receptions, LRFA was a prominent exhibitor at the 5th annual Dallas Art Fair and Houston Fine Art Fair, and attended Art Basel in Switzerland, as well as Miami. Working closely with private and public collectors, several LRFA artists were acquired into world-renowned corporate art collections, including BBVA Compass and HKS Architects Headquarters. About Laura Rathe Fine Art Formally established in 1998, Laura Rathe Fine Art represents a dynamic artist roster including emerging, mid-career, as well as blue-chip contemporary artists. With a primary focus on abstract expressionist painters, LRFA also represents diverse sculptors, mixed media artists, as well as photographers. Located in the heart of the gallery and design districts of Houston and Dallas, Texas, LRFA hosts artist exhibitions, art walks, as well as provides art consultation services to private and corporate collectors and to the design industry.

In 1999 Jason Nodler directed Tamarie Cooper and Charles Scott as the titular characters in Infernal Bridegroom's production of Wallace Shawn's MARIE AND BRUCE. Celebrating 20 years of Jason Nodler and Tamarie Cooper making theatre together and the fifth anniversary of The Catastrophic Theatre, the company is closing their 2013 season with a revival of their acclaimed production of MARIE AND BRUCE. Jason Nodler, Tamarie Cooper, and Charles Scott are all returning to the production in their previous roles, and each ensures that Houston audiences are gifted with an incredible night of theatre.

Contemporary Dallas gallery, Laura Rathe Fine Art, will collectively display and debut new works by artists, Steven DaLuz, Michelle Gagliano and Pauline Ziegen in the group exhibition, 'Enlighten' with an opening reception today, November 23rd from 6-9pm. Drawing inspiration from the early American art style of 'Luminism', this collection of work emanates an ethereal style that emphasizes the effects of light and atmosphere with the artists' application of illuminating mediums, such as gold leaf and patina. The 'Enlighten' collection and exhibition will be on display through December 7, 2013. About The Artists Steven DaLuz is compelled to do work that conjures up a sense of mystery and ethereal light, whether figurative or abstract. While identified with abstract works that are often landscape-referential-employing a process he devised using metal leaf, oil, and mixed media, he is also known for figurative works that are poetic and introspective. 'Landscape, spirituality, and the figure all serve as inspiration for me. Collectively, my work often reflects upon primal questions about origins, the expressive beauty of the human figure, the aesthetic power of light moving through an imagined atmosphere, and the sublime.' The contemporary works of artist Michelle Gagliano explore the idea of surface alchemy. Through layers of oil glazes and stains she creates a textural and tonal patina that evokes a sense of aged surfaces and timelessness. 'The organic content of my work refers not to specific landscape views or flora, but rather suggests an imaginary moment, where vines and leaves in silhouette atop smoky skies echo metaphoric content beyond a realist interpretation.' Gagliano's use of metallic paint and sfmuato techniques augment a sense of visual resonance, and embody a sense of ineffable beauty that seeks to transcend a specific time and place. A longtime fan of Eastern philosophies, Pauline Ziegen is drawn to the perceptual elements and materials of Chinese and Japanese art. 'I love the way the artists convey the illusion of space using minimalist drawing techniques, and I find the gold leaf in Japanese folding screens both traditional and austerely modern.' Ziegen's innate sense of harmony and balance results in horizons that are soothing, calm, and orderly. The lines become provocateurs that grab the eye asking it to bridge opposites: the upper and lower registers, heaven and earth, the inner and outer worlds, being and non-being, and perhaps just as importantly, the landscape as perception and painted object. Saying more with less is at the heart of Ziegen's approach. About Laura Rathe Fine Art Formally established in Houston in 1998, Laura Rathe Fine Art represents a dynamic artist roster including emerging, mid-career, as well as blue-chip contemporary artists. With a primary focus on abstract expressionist painters, LRFA also represents and displays a diverse and select group of sculptors, photographers and new media artists. Located in the heart of the gallery and design districts of Houston and Dallas, Texas, LRFA regularly hosts artist exhibitions, lectures, and art walks that serve as an integral part of the expanding art scene and community across Texas. LRFA provides art consultation services to private and corporate collectors and to the design industry. For additional information, details or to schedule an interview, please contact 214.761.2000 Janice Meyers, Director, Janice@LauraRathe.com Courtney Feavel, Assistant Director, Courtney@LauraRathe.com

The Catastrophic Theatre will present Marie and Bruce by Wallace Shawn on November 22 - December 14, 2013. All tickets Pay-What-You-Can.

Contemporary Dallas gallery, Laura Rathe Fine Art, will collectively display and debut new works by artists, Steven DaLuz, Michelle Gagliano and Pauline Ziegen in the group exhibition, 'Enlighten' with an opening reception on Saturday, November 23rd from 6-9pm. Drawing inspiration from the early American art style of 'Luminism', this collection of work emanates an ethereal style that emphasizes the effects of light and atmosphere with the artists' application of illuminating mediums, such as gold leaf and patina. The 'Enlighten' collection and exhibition will be on display through December 7, 2013. About The Artists Steven DaLuz is compelled to do work that conjures up a sense of mystery and ethereal light, whether figurative or abstract. While identified with abstract works that are often landscape-referential-employing a process he devised using metal leaf, oil, and mixed media, he is also known for figurative works that are poetic and introspective. 'Landscape, spirituality, and the figure all serve as inspiration for me. Collectively, my work often reflects upon primal questions about origins, the expressive beauty of the human figure, the aesthetic power of light moving through an imagined atmosphere, and the sublime.' The contemporary works of artist Michelle Gagliano explore the idea of surface alchemy. Through layers of oil glazes and stains she creates a textural and tonal patina that evokes a sense of aged surfaces and timelessness. 'The organic content of my work refers not to specific landscape views or flora, but rather suggests an imaginary moment, where vines and leaves in silhouette atop smoky skies echo metaphoric content beyond a realist interpretation.' Gagliano's use of metallic paint and sfmuato techniques augment a sense of visual resonance, and embody a sense of ineffable beauty that seeks to transcend a specific time and place. A longtime fan of Eastern philosophies, Pauline Ziegen is drawn to the perceptual elements and materials of Chinese and Japanese art. 'I love the way the artists convey the illusion of space using minimalist drawing techniques, and I find the gold leaf in Japanese folding screens both traditional and austerely modern.' Ziegen's innate sense of harmony and balance results in horizons that are soothing, calm, and orderly. The lines become provocateurs that grab the eye asking it to bridge opposites: the upper and lower registers, heaven and earth, the inner and outer worlds, being and non-being, and perhaps just as importantly, the landscape as perception and painted object. Saying more with less is at the heart of Ziegen's approach. About Laura Rathe Fine Art Formally established in Houston in 1998, Laura Rathe Fine Art represents a dynamic artist roster including emerging, mid-career, as well as blue-chip contemporary artists. With a primary focus on abstract expressionist painters, LRFA also represents and displays a diverse and select group of sculptors, photographers and new media artists. Located in the heart of the gallery and design districts of Houston and Dallas, Texas, LRFA regularly hosts artist exhibitions, lectures, and art walks that serve as an integral part of the expanding art scene and community across Texas. LRFA provides art consultation services to private and corporate collectors and to the design industry. For additional information, details or to schedule an interview, please contact 214.761.2000 Janice Meyers, Director, Janice@LauraRathe.com Courtney Feavel, Assistant Director, Courtney@LauraRathe.com

When attending a production at The Catastrophic Theatre, I always know I am in for a journey. My favorite aspect of this group is that each and every one of their productions is a risk-taking endeavor, guaranteeing Houston audiences access to fresh, cutting-edge presentations of theatrical craftsmanship. Their current production, the World Premiere of Mickle Maher's THE PINE was commissioned by The Catastrophic Theatre and funded in part by a grant awarded by The MAP Fund, a program of Creative Capital supported by the Doris Duke Charitable Foundation and The Andrew W. Mellon Foundation. Unfortunately, THE PINE wasn't to my liking, but the opportunity to see something crafted with this company in mind is reason enough for anyone to attend a performance.

In her upcoming October 12th solo exhibition debut and artist reception at notable Dallas gallery, Laura Rathe Fine Art, contemporary mixed-media painter, Meredith Pardue, unveils her newest series inspired by the Greek mythological landscapes of Elysium. Pardue's artistic expression and references in the exhibition, 'The Elysian Fields' is captured in dramatic, large-scale compositions that highlight her bold spectrum of color and range of depth. 'What remains consistent for me throughout all of the work the individual pieces as well as the seriesis the element of singularity that is somehow compelled into existence for some reason or another. For me this is the very essence of the work, the intangible essence of its being, and the place where the magic happens. The act of noticing something with my senses, of applying a certain meaning to it with my mind, and then to transforming into something else with my handsthe entire process, one might conclude- -is yet grossly incomplete without the intangible essence of its being. It is sacred and unattainable, but we continue to try to know it, to reach it, to touch it, to feel it, to experience it, to comprehend itand in the case of the artist, to convey it through some kind of sensory means.' - Meredith Pardue 'The Elysian Fields' collection and exhibition will be on display through November 17, 2013. About The Artist Born in Monroe, LA, Meredith Pardue, is an acclaimed contemporary artist, whose works are widely recognized for its abstract botanical forms and scenes derived from nature. Upon receiving a B.F.A. from Savannah College of Art & Design in Georgia, she was accepted and completed her M.F.A. at Parsons School of Design in New York. Following her art studies and education, Pardue traveled extensively across the U.S., finding and drawing inspiration from the varied regions and coasts of the South, Pacific Northwest, and Northeast. Today, Pardue's works continue to gain critical acclaim, and are prominently displayed in several private and notable corporate collections including J. Crew Corporate Headquarters, Genstar Capital, The Michael and Susan Dell Foundation, Oceania Cruise Lines, Scott and White Children's Hospital, and the Savannah College of Art and Design. Her work has been exhibited worldwide and has been published in Architectural Digest, Dwell, New American Paintings, and Austin Monthly Home. About Laura Rathe Fine Art Formally established in Houston in 1998, Laura Rathe Fine Art represents a dynamic artist roster including emerging, mid-career, as well as blue-chip contemporary artists. With a primary focus on abstract expressionist painters, LRFA also represents and displays a diverse and select group of sculptors, photographers and new media artists. Located in the heart of the gallery and design districts of Houston and Dallas, Texas, LRFA regularly hosts artist exhibitions, lectures, and art walks that serve as an integral part of the expanding art scene and community across Texas. LRFA provides art consultation services to private and corporate collectors and to the design industry.

The Catastrophic Theatre is pleased to announce the world premiere of The Pine, a new play by the author of past Catastrophic favorites There is a Happiness That Morning Is, Spirits to Enforce, and The Strangerer, Mickle Maher. The Pine opens Friday, September 27 and runs Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays at 8 pm through October 19 at The Catastrophic Theatre, 1119 East Fwy, 77002.

Stages Repertory Theatre is hosting the American Regional Theatre Premiere of ROAD SHOW, a musical with Music and Lyrics by Stephen Sondheim and a Book by John Weidman. The musical premiered in 1999 under the title WISE GUYS at the New York Theatre Workshop, but a legal case held up further production. A significantly rewritten version of the musical, entitled BOUNCE, premiered in 2003 at the Goldman Theatre in Chicago. BOUNCE then ran at the Kennedy Center in Washington D.C. with the Chicago cast where mixed-to-negative reviews kept it from being produced in New York City. In 2008, another rewritten version of the show, now entitled ROAD SHOW, opened Off-Broadway at The Public Theater's Newman Theater. This new, streamlined version removed the lead female character of Nellie, who had been added for the 2003 incarnation, and took out the intermission. The title change also reflected John Weidman's desires and hopes to better hone the show's story and themes.

It is the mission of The Catastrophic Theatre to destroy audiences with impressive and unique theatre. Unfortunately, the World Premiere of FLEAVEN only destroys audiences by sending them out into the world wondering what was missing. At 27 years old, I thought maybe it was not living through the Disco era that left me benumbed by the performance. However, it's disco era vibe pastiche is fleshed out with 90s inspired rap beats and cultural references from the 70s, 80s, and 90s. Furthermore, my parents' eclectic tastes in everything pop-cultural ensured that I had a strong understanding of many things I did not live through. So, simply put, that wasn't it. The problem was that despite laughing out loud at a few outlandish and genuinely humorous moments, I simply was not moved in any emotionally tangible way. From beginning to end, I felt no emotional connection to this Grinchian tale? (Think of Grinchian as being similar to Faustian, but with Dr. Suess' Grinch.)

The 2012 New York Musical Theatre Festival, Red Hen Productions, The Schramm Group LLC and Gramily Entertainment present the New York premiere of RE-ANIMATOR™ THE MUSICAL featuring George Wendt ("Cheers", Broadway's Elf). This new musical comedy with a storyline that involves considerable bloodshed will feature a "splash zone" in the first few rows of the theater. RE-ANIMATOR™ THE MUSICAL plays July 17 at 8:00pm, July 18 at 4:30 and 8:00pm, July 19 at 8:00pm, July 21 at 5:30 pm and 9:00 pm and July 22 at 9:00pm at the PTC Performance Space (555 West 42nd Street). Tickets for RE-ANIMATOR™ THE MUSICAL are $25, a can be purchased by calling (212) 352-3101 or by visiting www.nymf.org. For more information:www.nymf.org. Check out photos from the production below!

When it first came out in 1985, RE-ANIMATOR quickly became a hit among horror fans and established a cult following both for the film and its mad scientist, Jeff Combs, who played Herbert West. Graham Skipper plays West in the musical and is just as fiendish as his film counterpart and funnier than ever in the broadly drawn, extremely eccentric role.