OpenStage Theatre Creates SceneWorks, Allowing Audience To Step Into Their Favorite Roles

From Hamlet to Popeye, every actor has a favorite role they haven't had a chance or never would be cast to portray. To celebrate the opening of its 37th season, OpenStage Theatre decided to create SceneWorks as a means of thanking its dedicated artists with an opportunity to step into those favored role and into their favorite scene.

"SceneWorks allows the audience to take a unique journey behind the scenes with our artists as they perform scenes from the world of theatre that inspire them and are closest to their hearts," said OpenStage Artistic Director Denise Freestone. "Some are moving, some are hilarious and all will be entertaining. The scenes will be performed downstage to provide an intimate experience between the actors and audience."

The 14 selected scenes range from one to 10 minutes and create two full acts. One to three performers, including OpenStage veterans and neophytes, will appear in each scene with minimal sets and costumes to keep the focus on the acting. Freestone will serve as master of ceremonies, providing introductions and also serving as the stage manager to provide the audience with a glimpse of the backstage aspects of a show.

In addition, longtime OpenStage performer and director Richard Strahle will direct his original 10-minute one act "The Fabric of Destiny," starring Deborah Marie Hlinka as a therapist and OpenStage co-founders Bruce and Denise Freestone as a couple with issues. In a cute twist on the norm, the couple undergoing "shrinkage" also are minor superheroes, if there is such a thing.

"It'll give the audience a chance to see what each of these artists think," said Freestone. "What is the role they are drawn to? What excites the individual performer?"

As an anniversary thank you to the public, OpenStage has priced all tickets for SceneWorks at $10 or free with any season-ticket purchase. Individual and season tickets are available from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m., Mondays through Saturdays through the Lincoln Center Box Office at (970) 221-6730 and online at www.LCTIX.com.

Individual scenes may contain adult themes or language.

OpenStage Theatre presents SceneWorks at 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays from Sept. 11 to 19, with two Sunday matinées at 2 p.m. on Sept. 13 and 20 Performances are in the Lincoln Center Mini Theater, 417 W. Magnolia St. in Fort Collins.

Audiences are invited to meet the cast of SceneWorks following every performance.

OpenStage Theatre is a not-for-profit organization that relies heavily on the support of sponsors and patrons who help make each season a success. With assistance from corporations, foundations and the general public, OpenStage has been able to maintain high quality productions for 37 years. For information on sponsorship and charitable gifts and on how you can support OpenStage Theatre, call 970-484-5237.

For more information, visit OpenStage's website at www.openstage.com or call 970-484-5237. Founded in 1973, OpenStage Theatre is a recipient of the Governor's Award for Excellence in the Arts and a member of Theatre Communications Group, the national organization for not-for-profit professional theatres.