Summer Stages in Maine: A Sampling
by Carla Maria Verdino-Süllwold - May 11, 2016
With miles of pristine coastline, picturesque villages, excellent dining and shopping, Maine is a summer mecca for tourists. But beyond sightseeing and outdoor recreation, Maine's summer theatre landscape is a rich and colorful one, making it a major cultural destination as well. Here are my editorial picks among the wealth of this summer's theatrical offerings.
by Carla Maria Verdino-Süllwold - May 11, 2016
With miles of pristine coastline, picturesque villages, excellent dining and shopping, Maine is a summer mecca for tourists. But beyond sightseeing and outdoor recreation, Maine's summer theatre landscape is a rich and colorful one, making it a major cultural destination as well. Here are my editorial picks among the wealth of this summer's theatrical offerings.
Mad Horse Theatre to Close Out Season with STUPID F***ING BIRD, 5/19-6/5
by BWW News Desk - May 09, 2016
Mad Horse Theatre Company wraps its 30th Anniversary Season with the smart, sassy comedy Stupid F**ing Bird, by Aaron Posner, directed by Christopher Price.
by BWW News Desk - May 09, 2016
Mad Horse Theatre Company wraps its 30th Anniversary Season with the smart, sassy comedy Stupid F**ing Bird, by Aaron Posner, directed by Christopher Price.
BWW Blog: Jessica Walker - Deciphering Diva
by Guest Blogger: Jessica Walker - May 09, 2016
Divas are a classic theatre troupe that have appeared in productions for decades. So often divas come off as brazen, brash, and dramatic, having a shallow personality and the constant need to acquire attention. Earlier in April my peers and I began work on "Hay Fever" by Noel Coward, a play that puts a dramatic family under the microscope and examines the interactions between relatives that don't fit the standard definition of "normal." I was thrilled to have been cast as Judith Bliss, the matriarch of the Bliss family and an ex-starlet herself. Through the process of this show, and using Judith as a lens, I have found the "diva" to be so much more than the dramatic figure he or she is often portrayed to be, but rather a complex and insecure character that can be challenging to decipher.
by Guest Blogger: Jessica Walker - May 09, 2016
Divas are a classic theatre troupe that have appeared in productions for decades. So often divas come off as brazen, brash, and dramatic, having a shallow personality and the constant need to acquire attention. Earlier in April my peers and I began work on "Hay Fever" by Noel Coward, a play that puts a dramatic family under the microscope and examines the interactions between relatives that don't fit the standard definition of "normal." I was thrilled to have been cast as Judith Bliss, the matriarch of the Bliss family and an ex-starlet herself. Through the process of this show, and using Judith as a lens, I have found the "diva" to be so much more than the dramatic figure he or she is often portrayed to be, but rather a complex and insecure character that can be challenging to decipher.
BWW Review: CROSSING DELANCEY Projects Cozy Warmth
by Carla Maria Verdino-Süllwold - May 09, 2016
Lewiston's Public Theatre's closing play of the 2015-2016 season, Susan Sandler's Crossing Delancey is the perfect Mother's Day offering, projecting cozy warmth and fond memories of an unforgettable Jewish grandmother. The 1985 play, which takes a bemused look at the clash between traditional Jewish- American immigrant culture and the more modern aspirations of the next generations, serves up a quintet of characters one cannot fail to embrace
by Carla Maria Verdino-Süllwold - May 09, 2016
Lewiston's Public Theatre's closing play of the 2015-2016 season, Susan Sandler's Crossing Delancey is the perfect Mother's Day offering, projecting cozy warmth and fond memories of an unforgettable Jewish grandmother. The 1985 play, which takes a bemused look at the clash between traditional Jewish- American immigrant culture and the more modern aspirations of the next generations, serves up a quintet of characters one cannot fail to embrace
L/A Community Little Theatre Announces the Cast of AUGUST: OSAGE COUNTY
by BWW News Desk - May 07, 2016
L/A Community Little Theatre is excited to announce the cast for their upcoming production of "August: Osage County." Tracy Letts is the literary genius behind this multi-award winning play. This production is being directed by Adam P. Blais, with original music by Paul G. Caron.
by BWW News Desk - May 07, 2016
L/A Community Little Theatre is excited to announce the cast for their upcoming production of "August: Osage County." Tracy Letts is the literary genius behind this multi-award winning play. This production is being directed by Adam P. Blais, with original music by Paul G. Caron.
Vinegar Hill Music Theater to Open in June
by BWW News Desk - May 05, 2016
Vinegar Hill Music Theater, southern Maine's newest live arts entertainment venue, will kick off its very first season on June 24 with a gala event benefitting Music on Main, a non-profit community organization dedicated to bringing the Portland Symphony Orchestra to the Kennebunks each summer.
by BWW News Desk - May 05, 2016
Vinegar Hill Music Theater, southern Maine's newest live arts entertainment venue, will kick off its very first season on June 24 with a gala event benefitting Music on Main, a non-profit community organization dedicated to bringing the Portland Symphony Orchestra to the Kennebunks each summer.
Beatles Show LET IT BE to Open Ogunquit Playhouse's 84th Season
by BWW News Desk - May 03, 2016
The Ogunquit Playhouse kicks off its 84th season with the international smash hit direct from London's West End and Broadway, LET IT BE - A Celebration of the Music of The Beatles, rocking the stage from May 18 to June 11.
by BWW News Desk - May 03, 2016
The Ogunquit Playhouse kicks off its 84th season with the international smash hit direct from London's West End and Broadway, LET IT BE - A Celebration of the Music of The Beatles, rocking the stage from May 18 to June 11.
BWW Blog: Jessica Walker - Young Women and the New Pop Musical
by Guest Blogger: Jessica Walker - May 03, 2016
With Hamilton making a splash on the Great White Way, and shows like Waitress bringing a new sound to the theatre community, there is no denying that pop musicals are making their mark on Broadway. New productions combine daring storylines with catchy songs that are definitely not considered "traditional musical theatre." These productions feature a genre of music that reflects the changing world around us and a generation coming in to their own. Besides a fresh sound, these musicals offer one more element reflecting the progression of our modern world: empowering roles for women both on and off the stage, bringing progression out of storybooks and in to reality for a new generation of female thespians.
by Guest Blogger: Jessica Walker - May 03, 2016
With Hamilton making a splash on the Great White Way, and shows like Waitress bringing a new sound to the theatre community, there is no denying that pop musicals are making their mark on Broadway. New productions combine daring storylines with catchy songs that are definitely not considered "traditional musical theatre." These productions feature a genre of music that reflects the changing world around us and a generation coming in to their own. Besides a fresh sound, these musicals offer one more element reflecting the progression of our modern world: empowering roles for women both on and off the stage, bringing progression out of storybooks and in to reality for a new generation of female thespians.
BWW Review: Commedia dell'Arte Meets Political Farce at Portland Stage
by Carla Maria Verdino-Süllwold - May 02, 2016
Portland Stage closes its season with Dario Fo's 1974 play, They Don't Pay? We Won't Pay!, in the playwright's signature style of provocative socialist politics and broad Commedia dell'Arte farce. Translated from the Italian by Jon Laskin and Michael Aquilante, the Portland production adds an Americanized layer of iconic comedy characters and references to shows such as the Honeymooners. The overall effect alternates between moments of hilarity and wearisome intervals, though one can only admire the virtuoso performances of the entire cast and director Ron Botting's crisp, energetic production.
by Carla Maria Verdino-Süllwold - May 02, 2016
Portland Stage closes its season with Dario Fo's 1974 play, They Don't Pay? We Won't Pay!, in the playwright's signature style of provocative socialist politics and broad Commedia dell'Arte farce. Translated from the Italian by Jon Laskin and Michael Aquilante, the Portland production adds an Americanized layer of iconic comedy characters and references to shows such as the Honeymooners. The overall effect alternates between moments of hilarity and wearisome intervals, though one can only admire the virtuoso performances of the entire cast and director Ron Botting's crisp, energetic production.
L/A Community Little Theatre Announces Cast of AUGUST: OSAGE COUNTY
by BWW News Desk - April 27, 2016
L/A Community Little Theatre is excited to announce the cast for their upcoming production of "August: Osage County." Tracy Letts is the literary genius behind this multi-award winning play. This production is being directed by Adam P. Blais, with original music by Paul G. Caron.
by BWW News Desk - April 27, 2016
L/A Community Little Theatre is excited to announce the cast for their upcoming production of "August: Osage County." Tracy Letts is the literary genius behind this multi-award winning play. This production is being directed by Adam P. Blais, with original music by Paul G. Caron.
All-Star Improv Cabaret Set for Penobscot Theatre Company, 5/15
by BWW News Desk - April 26, 2016
Penobscot Theatre Company has assembled a sensational team of improvisational artists at the top of their game for an All-Star Improv Cabaret, one night only, May 15 at 7:00 pm at the historic Bangor Opera House. 'This fast-paced, interactive show will have folks rolling in the aisles!' said Producing Artistic Director Bari Newport. 'Masters of improvisation will take suggestions from the audience and spin them into an unforgettable night of comedy! If you liked the television show, Whose Line is it Anyway?, you'll surely love this show.' All tickets are $15 each, available online at www.penobscottheatre.org or at the box office, (207) 942-3333. The show will feature:
by BWW News Desk - April 26, 2016
Penobscot Theatre Company has assembled a sensational team of improvisational artists at the top of their game for an All-Star Improv Cabaret, one night only, May 15 at 7:00 pm at the historic Bangor Opera House. 'This fast-paced, interactive show will have folks rolling in the aisles!' said Producing Artistic Director Bari Newport. 'Masters of improvisation will take suggestions from the audience and spin them into an unforgettable night of comedy! If you liked the television show, Whose Line is it Anyway?, you'll surely love this show.' All tickets are $15 each, available online at www.penobscottheatre.org or at the box office, (207) 942-3333. The show will feature:
Ying Quartet & Cellist Zuill Bailey to Perform at Hannaford Hall, 5/7
by BWW News Desk - April 22, 2016
Portland Ovations presents the Grammy award-winning Ying Quartet with special guest, cellist Zuill Bailey at Hannaford Hall at USM Portland for an afternoon concert on Saturday, May 7th at 3PM.
by BWW News Desk - April 22, 2016
Portland Ovations presents the Grammy award-winning Ying Quartet with special guest, cellist Zuill Bailey at Hannaford Hall at USM Portland for an afternoon concert on Saturday, May 7th at 3PM.
Tickets to ROCK OF AGES at Penobscot Theatre Company on Sale 4/26
by BWW News Desk - April 20, 2016
Tickets to the Maine premiere of Rock of Ages, produced by Penobscot Theatre Company, will go on sale to the general public, April 26, 2016. The hit Broadway musical will run from June 9 to July 2 at the historic Bangor Opera House with evening and afternoon performances. 'This hot show is the perfect summer kick-off,' said Bari Newport, producing artistic director. 'Let's get this party started!'
by BWW News Desk - April 20, 2016
Tickets to the Maine premiere of Rock of Ages, produced by Penobscot Theatre Company, will go on sale to the general public, April 26, 2016. The hit Broadway musical will run from June 9 to July 2 at the historic Bangor Opera House with evening and afternoon performances. 'This hot show is the perfect summer kick-off,' said Bari Newport, producing artistic director. 'Let's get this party started!'
Penobscot Theatre Company's Dramatic Academy to Present FANTASTIC MR. FOX
by BWW News Desk - April 19, 2016
Penobscot Theatre Company's Dramatic Academy presents Fantastic Mr. Fox, Roald Dahl's classic tale of a bodacious, bushy-tailed husband and father with a casual approach to property lines. Fox's charm is as irrepressible as his hunger for fresh chickens, which is why audiences will cheer as he outfoxes his miserable neighbors. Performances will be May 13 and 14 at 4:30 pm and May 15 at 11:30 am at the Bangor Opera House.
by BWW News Desk - April 19, 2016
Penobscot Theatre Company's Dramatic Academy presents Fantastic Mr. Fox, Roald Dahl's classic tale of a bodacious, bushy-tailed husband and father with a casual approach to property lines. Fox's charm is as irrepressible as his hunger for fresh chickens, which is why audiences will cheer as he outfoxes his miserable neighbors. Performances will be May 13 and 14 at 4:30 pm and May 15 at 11:30 am at the Bangor Opera House.
15th Annual Maine Playwrights Festival to Kick Off 4/30
by BWW News Desk - April 15, 2016
Acorn Productions, a non-profit organization dedicated to nurturing and developing Southern Maine's community of performing artists, announces the final performance schedule for this year's Maine Playwrights Festival. The MPF opens with an evening of dramatic readings on Saturday, April 30, in the Ballroom at Mechanics Hall, and continues with a weekend of performances at the St. Lawrence Arts Center from May 4 to 7. The event wraps up with the 24-Hour Portland Theater Project on Sunday, May 8th, a popular presentation of 6 new plays that all share the same line of dialogue, prop, and setting, all of which have been written, rehearsed and presented within a single day. Tickets for the MPF are available on Acorn's website at www.acorn-productions.org and cost $16 for the general public and $14 for students and seniors.
by BWW News Desk - April 15, 2016
Acorn Productions, a non-profit organization dedicated to nurturing and developing Southern Maine's community of performing artists, announces the final performance schedule for this year's Maine Playwrights Festival. The MPF opens with an evening of dramatic readings on Saturday, April 30, in the Ballroom at Mechanics Hall, and continues with a weekend of performances at the St. Lawrence Arts Center from May 4 to 7. The event wraps up with the 24-Hour Portland Theater Project on Sunday, May 8th, a popular presentation of 6 new plays that all share the same line of dialogue, prop, and setting, all of which have been written, rehearsed and presented within a single day. Tickets for the MPF are available on Acorn's website at www.acorn-productions.org and cost $16 for the general public and $14 for students and seniors.
THE ILLUSIONISTS Brings Magic and Mystery to Portland Ovations Today
by BWW News Desk - April 15, 2016
On the heels of a highly successful multi-city tour and run on Broadway, Portland Ovations presents the best-selling touring magic show, THE ILLUSIONISTS - LIVE FROM BROADWAY at Merrill Auditorium in Portland, ME, today April 15 and tomorrow, April 16 as part of a 45 city U.S. tour.
by BWW News Desk - April 15, 2016
On the heels of a highly successful multi-city tour and run on Broadway, Portland Ovations presents the best-selling touring magic show, THE ILLUSIONISTS - LIVE FROM BROADWAY at Merrill Auditorium in Portland, ME, today April 15 and tomorrow, April 16 as part of a 45 city U.S. tour.
Ogunquit Playhouse's NICE WORK IF YOU CAN GET IT Receives Three IRNE Awards
by BWW News Desk - April 13, 2016
The Ogunquit Playhouse received three Independent Reviewers of New England (IRNE) Awards for the 2015 production of NICE WORK IF YOU CAN GET IT at the April 11th ceremony held in Brookline, Massachusetts.
by BWW News Desk - April 13, 2016
The Ogunquit Playhouse received three Independent Reviewers of New England (IRNE) Awards for the 2015 production of NICE WORK IF YOU CAN GET IT at the April 11th ceremony held in Brookline, Massachusetts.
Maine State Music Theatre Welcomes Facilities Manager
by BWW News Desk - April 12, 2016
Maine State Music Theatre announced today that Mike Egan has joined the Administrative Office Staff as Facilities Manager. As MSMT has continued to acquire more properties, most recently Clancy House on Cedar Street in Brunswick, the need for a full-time staff member dedicated to maintenance of these properties became apparent.
by BWW News Desk - April 12, 2016
Maine State Music Theatre announced today that Mike Egan has joined the Administrative Office Staff as Facilities Manager. As MSMT has continued to acquire more properties, most recently Clancy House on Cedar Street in Brunswick, the need for a full-time staff member dedicated to maintenance of these properties became apparent.
Mad Horse Theatre Company to Stage BY LOCAL, 4/21-24
by BWW News Desk - April 11, 2016
Mad Horse Theatre Company is excited to announce the first offerings of its popular BY LOCAL new play reading series of 2016! The series has consistently brought exciting, original scripts by Maine playwrights to theater audiences in the Greater Portland area. Both plays in this latest BY LOCAL focus on the trials, tribulations, and wonders of romantic relationships.
by BWW News Desk - April 11, 2016
Mad Horse Theatre Company is excited to announce the first offerings of its popular BY LOCAL new play reading series of 2016! The series has consistently brought exciting, original scripts by Maine playwrights to theater audiences in the Greater Portland area. Both plays in this latest BY LOCAL focus on the trials, tribulations, and wonders of romantic relationships.
BWW Review: A Love Letter to Theatre's Golden Age, ACT ONE Triumphs at the Good Theater
by Carla Maria Verdino-Süllwold - April 11, 2016
Portland's Good Theater is closing, what has been a highly adventurous and challenging fourteenth season, with a triumphant production of Act One, James Lapine's play based on the autobiography of Moss Hart. This nostalgic, subtly comic, and warmly touching work tells the story of a young Hart, learning to navigate the complex currents of writing a Broadway show in the 1930s. Told by two narrators, Lapine's play brings to life not only the Hart-George S. Kaufmann partnership, but a host of other colorful historical characters who helped to shape this golden age of the stage.
by Carla Maria Verdino-Süllwold - April 11, 2016
Portland's Good Theater is closing, what has been a highly adventurous and challenging fourteenth season, with a triumphant production of Act One, James Lapine's play based on the autobiography of Moss Hart. This nostalgic, subtly comic, and warmly touching work tells the story of a young Hart, learning to navigate the complex currents of writing a Broadway show in the 1930s. Told by two narrators, Lapine's play brings to life not only the Hart-George S. Kaufmann partnership, but a host of other colorful historical characters who helped to shape this golden age of the stage.
MARY POPPINS Delights at Waterville Opera House
by Carla Maria Verdino-Süllwold - April 10, 2016
A full house of children and adults greeted the Disney musical Mary Poppins with exuberant delight at the historic Waterville Opera House this weekend. And, indeed, the elaborate production of the familiar classic had many pleasures to offer. Directed by Debra Susi with choreography by Adam P. Blais, the staging was lively and the dancing serviceable, sometimes sparkling, while the moments of flight (facilitated by Foy) elicited the appropriate gasps and applause. The atmospheric production, despite slowing the action in the scene changes on several occasions, boasted a painted drop set with moveable furniture units and a colorful, magical lighting design by Chad Lefebvre, who created the storybook palette in pastel pinks, greens, blues, and lavenders. Travis M. Grant supplied the lavish, elegantly designed and detailed costumes, and Jayson Murray insured a well-balanced acoustic with his sound design.
by Carla Maria Verdino-Süllwold - April 10, 2016
A full house of children and adults greeted the Disney musical Mary Poppins with exuberant delight at the historic Waterville Opera House this weekend. And, indeed, the elaborate production of the familiar classic had many pleasures to offer. Directed by Debra Susi with choreography by Adam P. Blais, the staging was lively and the dancing serviceable, sometimes sparkling, while the moments of flight (facilitated by Foy) elicited the appropriate gasps and applause. The atmospheric production, despite slowing the action in the scene changes on several occasions, boasted a painted drop set with moveable furniture units and a colorful, magical lighting design by Chad Lefebvre, who created the storybook palette in pastel pinks, greens, blues, and lavenders. Travis M. Grant supplied the lavish, elegantly designed and detailed costumes, and Jayson Murray insured a well-balanced acoustic with his sound design.
Romance, Fire, Warmth, and Excitement as MSMT Forges Ahead
by Carla Maria Verdino-Süllwold - April 08, 2016
“We came up with this pitch that alliterates,” says Maine State Music Theatre's Managing Director Stephanie Dupal of the theatre's description of their upcoming 2016 summer season. “Relive the romance of Ghost; feel the fire of Evita; welcome the warmth of Fiddler; and experience the excitement of Mama Mia,” she recites. Joined by Artistic Director Curt Dale Clark, the pair is talking about their plans for their main stage productions and the various new initiatives this dynamic team has launched since taking the helm of the company's leadership in 2013. By all accounts it is to be a season to surpass even the excellence of the prior ones!
by Carla Maria Verdino-Süllwold - April 08, 2016
“We came up with this pitch that alliterates,” says Maine State Music Theatre's Managing Director Stephanie Dupal of the theatre's description of their upcoming 2016 summer season. “Relive the romance of Ghost; feel the fire of Evita; welcome the warmth of Fiddler; and experience the excitement of Mama Mia,” she recites. Joined by Artistic Director Curt Dale Clark, the pair is talking about their plans for their main stage productions and the various new initiatives this dynamic team has launched since taking the helm of the company's leadership in 2013. By all accounts it is to be a season to surpass even the excellence of the prior ones!
Patrick Dorow Productions' NUNSENSE Begins Today
by BWW News Desk - April 08, 2016
Patrick Dorow Productions (PDP), the Seacoast's acclaimed, top-quality, live performance theater and education company, is thrilled to present Nunsense, winner of four Outer Critics Circle awards including Best off Broadway Musical. Running today, April 8, through April 24, 2016, at The Star Theatre in Kittery, Maine.
by BWW News Desk - April 08, 2016
Patrick Dorow Productions (PDP), the Seacoast's acclaimed, top-quality, live performance theater and education company, is thrilled to present Nunsense, winner of four Outer Critics Circle awards including Best off Broadway Musical. Running today, April 8, through April 24, 2016, at The Star Theatre in Kittery, Maine.
Psychic Medium Angelina Diana Set for Theater Monmouth Benefit
by BWW News Desk - April 07, 2016
Last season Psychic Medium Angelina Diana delivered inspirational and supportive psychic readings for more than three hours to a sold-out house in support of Theater at Monmouth. Due to popular demand, Theater at Monmouth has arranged for Angelina to return for another engaging evening of random readings and discussion of the metaphysical. If you've always wanted to learn more about the afterlife and have a strong desire to reach out to loved ones then join us at Cumston Hall on Friday, May 20 at 7:30 p.m. A portion of all proceeds benefits Theater at Monmouth; tickets $35 per person.
by BWW News Desk - April 07, 2016
Last season Psychic Medium Angelina Diana delivered inspirational and supportive psychic readings for more than three hours to a sold-out house in support of Theater at Monmouth. Due to popular demand, Theater at Monmouth has arranged for Angelina to return for another engaging evening of random readings and discussion of the metaphysical. If you've always wanted to learn more about the afterlife and have a strong desire to reach out to loved ones then join us at Cumston Hall on Friday, May 20 at 7:30 p.m. A portion of all proceeds benefits Theater at Monmouth; tickets $35 per person.
CALENDAR GIRLS, OLIVER! and More Slated for Penobscot Theatre's 2016-2017 Season
by BWW News Desk - April 06, 2016
Penobscot Theatre Company announces its 43rd Season, a fresh array of plays of musicals to be staged at the company's historic home, the Bangor Opera House.
by BWW News Desk - April 06, 2016
Penobscot Theatre Company announces its 43rd Season, a fresh array of plays of musicals to be staged at the company's historic home, the Bangor Opera House.
Videos
|
Our Town
Portland Stage Company (4/1 - 4/26) | |
|
Once Upon A Mattress
Waterville Opera House (4/23 - 5/3) | |
|
Ken Ludwig's LEND ME A SOPRANO
Good Theater (2/19 - 3/15) | |
|
The Marvelous Wonderettes!
Community Little Theatre Corp (6/19 - 6/28) | |
|
I Happen to Like New York
Good Theater at Stevens Square Theater (3/12 - 3/15) | |
|
The Secret Garden
Community Little Theatre Corp (4/10 - 4/19) | |
|
GRAND HORIZONS
Good Theater (4/2 - 4/19) | |
| VIEW SHOWS ADD A SHOW | ||
Get Maine's #1 Theatre Newsletter
All the show news & discounts for Maine & beyond.
