B Sharp

07/26/2025

Mae (Elizabeth Wheeler), Jesse (Ian Bailey), and Miles (Joseph Billetta) share the incredible story of the Tucks with Winnie (Violet Roche), revealing the secrets of their immortality. Will she understand the true weight of their gift? 🌟✨

Join us for the second performance weekend of Tuck Everlasting at Shannondell Performing Arts Theater in Audubon, PA:
Friday, 7/25 & Saturday, 7/26 @ 7:30 PM
Sunday, 7/27 @ 2:00 PM

Tickets available at the door or online here: www.theatermct.org

Don’t miss your chance to experience this magical tale!

Photo credit: John Gray

07/24/2025

Audition Notice: Methacton Community Theater

Man Of No Importance

Auditions: Sunday, August 3, 2:00 pm - 6:00 pm

Thursday, August 7, 7:00 pm- 10:00 pm

Callbacks (by invitation only): Sunday, August 10, 2025

Location: Shannondell Performing Arts Theater, Audubon PA 19403

Show dates: November 7, 8, 9, 14, 15, 16

More show information and audition sign up here:

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/9040D4CA9AD23A64-57230015-amanof

07/24/2025

Three more chances to see Tuck Everlasting- a funny, family-friendly, thought-provoking musical at Shannondell Performing Arts Theater! Escape the heat and be entertained while supporting local performing arts!

A well-deserved standing ovation for a very talented cast!
Tuck Everlasting's first weekend was fantastic! Join us for our second weekend at Shannondell Performing Arts Theater in Audubon, PA on 7/25 and 7/26 @ 7:30 pm and 7/27 @ 2:00 pm. The theater air-conditioned and handicapped accessible. Tickets can be purchased using this link or at the door prior to the show.
https://www.ticketleap.events/events/methactoncommunitytheater

07/16/2025

06/26/2025

Methacton Community Theater
Audition Notice: A Man of No Importance
Audition Dates: Aug. 3 & 7
Show Dates: November 7-9, 14-16
Location: Shannondell Performing Arts Theater, Audubon, PA
Click here for more information and to sign up for your audition slot!
https://www.signupgenius.com/go/9040D4CA9AD23A64-57230015-amanof #/

06/23/2025

Zakarak Productions Presents the Premiere of
Conversations With Miranda
A New Play by Gordon Prager

Swarthmore, PA — Zakarak Productions proudly presents Conversations With Miranda, a deeply moving and thought-provoking new play by Gordon Prager, directed by Ed Robins. Performances will take place July 9, 10, 11, and 12 at 7:00 PM, with a special matinee on July 12 at 1:00 PM, at the historic Main Stage of the Players Club of Swarthmore.

Blending reality with the metaphysical, Conversations With Miranda invites audiences into the world of Stephen Childs, who navigates the delicate space between the present and the afterlife alongside his late wife, Miranda. Bound by love that transcends time, Miranda’s unstoppable spirit propels her through the mysteries of eternity in her mission to make peace, connect with Stephen, and reach their son, Robert — to “set things right” along her journey.

Laced with warmth, humor, and tender insight, this new work explores universal themes of faith, redemption, mortality, and the timeless bonds that defy the finality of death. Inspired by true-life experiences, Conversations With Miranda is a heartfelt journey of love everlasting.

The production features a talented ensemble including Neill Hartley as Stephen and Julianna Schauerman as Miranda, with Matthew Carter, Taleah Kennedy, Keiran McCarney, and Joshua Gold rounding out the cast.

About the Playwright:
Gordon Prager is an accomplished writer and motivational speaker in the fields of C-suite communication and corporate risk management, with decades of experience in multinational aviation, aerospace, and financial sectors. He has authored several full-length plays performed by the Shannondell at Valley Forge Actors Studio. Gordon and his wife Jo Ann reside in Audubon, Pennsylvania.

About Zakarak Productions:
Zakarak Productions is dedicated to turning the ordinary into the extraordinary. We combine a passion for professional theater with personalized attention to every event we produce. Our mission is to deliver high-end, creative, and inclusive experiences that exceed expectations while holding diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) at the forefront of our values.

Venue:
Players Club of Swarthmore
614 Fairview Road, Swarthmore, PA 19081
The historic Main Stage is a 300-seat, ADA-accessible theater with free off-street parking.

Performance Dates & Times:
July 9, 10, 11, 12 at 7:00 PM
July 12 Matinee at 1:00 PM

Tickets: $25
Available at: https://pcstheater.org/show/zakarak-productions-presents-conversations-with-miranda/

Join us for an unforgettable exploration of life, love, and the eternal journey that binds us all.

Media Contact: Anne Marie Scalies, [email protected]

06/08/2025

Puppets, Punchlines, and Purpose: A Night on Avenue at the Barn Playhouse
Review by Laura T. Clattenburg

AVENUE Q isn’t just a musical. It’s a puppet-powered therapy session wrapped in catchy tunes and adult humor. From the first beat to the final bow, this production bursts with irreverent charm, unexpected depth, and enough belly laughs to make your cheeks hurt.

Imagine that Sesame Street grew up, got a job (sort of), and started drinking wine out of a box—and you’ve got the vibe. The show follows Princeton, a recent college grad with a “useless” English degree, as he stumbles through the messiness of adulthood. Along the way, we meet a lovable band of misfits: Kate Monster, a sweet kindergarten assistant with big dreams; Rod and Nicky, the Odd Couple with a closeted twist; Lucy the Slut, seductive and chaotic; and even a very sassy incarnation of Gary Coleman.

On Avenue Q at the Barn Playhouse, the cast is electric. The puppeteers manage tricky staging and bring each character to life with surprising depth. Their voices, movements, and total commitment to the silliness keep the audience laughing, while still making room for touching moments.

Kate Monster (Maddi Sloan) and Princeton (Stephen McDonnell) lead the way with good, emotionally grounded performances. Kate’s sweetness and sincerity shine through, particularly in her touching solo “There’s a Fine, Fine Line,” while Princeton’s wide-eyed optimism and comedic uncertainty keep the story moving with charm. Their connection feels authentic, making their relationship relatable.

The ensemble is equally strong. Rod (Justin Lamphere) and Nicky (Rob Frankel with Puppet Assistant Emily Murphy) are a standout comedic duo, blending classic roommate antics with deeper moments of self-discovery. Lucy the Slut (Christine Galeone) commands the stage with her bold, brazen flair. Gary Coleman (Akayla Butler) adds sass and street smarts, Christmas Eve (Jennifer Hsiao) brings sharp humor and unexpected insight, and Brian (Alan Ellinger) is the easygoing guy next door. Trekkie Monster (Jim Fryer) steals the show with his crazy energy. With his gruff voice, shaggy fur, and booming delivery, Trekkie is the loudest, yet one of the most lovable, residents on the block. Every twitch, growl, and side-eye is perfectly timed. His physical comedy is top-notch and delivered with precision. The Bad Idea Bears’ appearances (Brian Beloff/Jules Reanna) are brief, adding a shot of chaotic energy and devilish humor every time they bounce onstage. Though her stage time is short, Carol Ribner’s Mrs. Thistletwat makes an impression as Kate Monster’s crotchety, no-nonsense boss. She delivers her lines with dryness and just the right amount of theatrical exaggeration.

The puppetry work is impressive. The cast seamlessly blends voice, movement, and character work in a way that makes you forget you’re watching felt and foam. Every puppet is treated with the same emotional care and physical nuance as a live actor. The synchronization between puppeteers and their characters is tight, expressive, and essential to the show.

Under Steve Arcidiacono’s direction, the show never lingers or loses its rhythm. He finds a balance between zany comedy and real emotional stakes, letting the outrageous moments pop while ensuring the story still resonates. The choreography (Jenn Smith) is fun and fluid, cleverly adapted for both puppets and people.

Musical direction by Blue Colacchio ensures every number lands with energy. The cast’s vocals are strong, the harmonies well-blended, and the live accompaniment adds warmth and momentum to the score’s playful tone.

The scenic design (Phoebe Myers/Sue Alba) is charming, turning AVENUE Q into a lived-in space full of character and surprises. It’s the perfect backdrop.

Backed by producer Michael Riggs, his behind-the-scenes leadership ensures that every element, from casting to costumes to curtain call, runs smoothly. His commitment to quality and detail is evident in the show’s polish and overall continuity, creating a space where performers can shine and audiences can escape into the quirky world of AVENUE Q. This is a production he can be proud of.

Altogether, this production is a testament to the magic that happens when talent, teamwork, and puppetry collide. It’s funny, moving, and delightfully inappropriate—in all the right ways. I personally predict a sell out as word gets out so hurry and grab your seats!

Note:�Despite featuring puppets, AVENUE Q is R-rated, featuring adult situations and language.

AVENUE Q�The Barn Playhouse�June 6-21, 2025�barnplayhouse.org/avenueq
Photo credit: Steve DiNenno

06/02/2025

SWEENEY TODD Slices Through the Darkness with Unforgettable Talent and Vision
Review by Laura T. Clattenburg

This production of SWEENEY TODD is a theatrical tour-de-force—gritty, gripping, and gloriously executed from start to finish. At its dark and beating heart are two powerhouse performances: Thomas Dempsey as the vengeful barber, and Ally Hagan as the cunningly charismatic Mrs. Lovett.

Dempsey delivers a performance that is both terrifying and tragically human. His brooding intensity and commanding stage presence make his Sweeney utterly compelling. With a voice that resonates with sorrow and rage, he brings remarkable nuance to the character’s descent into darkness.

As Mrs. Lovett, Hagan is an absolute triumph. She effortlessly balances humor and horror, warmth and wickedness. Her comic timing is impeccable, her vocals are captivating, and she plays off Dempsey with sparkling chemistry that adds layers of depth to their twisted partnership.

Yet the brilliance of this production doesn’t stop with its leads. The supporting cast is exceptional, elevating every scene with precision and passion. The role of Tobias (Pat Festa) is portrayed with heartbreaking sincerity, offering a poignant innocence amidst the madness. Johanna and Anthony’s duets (Emily Sgroi and Jason Scansaroli) are soaring and sincere, providing a breath of purity in a bleak world. Judge Turpin (Mark Dixon) and Beadle Bamford (Brian Bunce) are deliciously despicable, portrayed with an edge that adds to the show’s creeping unease. The beggar woman’s performance (Rae Rosenbayger) added a layer of mystery and unease to the show. Her presence served as a chilling thread throughout the story. Her final moments brought a quiet, tragic clarity to the chaos.

The ensemble is tight and impactful, their haunting harmonies and choreographed movement enhancing the show’s eerie, industrial atmosphere. Every background figure feels fully realized, contributing to the story’s sense of dread and inevitability.

The direction (Chelsea Barnett) is smart and unflinching, pulling no punches in its interpretation of Sondheim’s dark masterpiece. Robbie Merow’s set design is minimalist yet striking, skillfully turning the space into a gritty maze of London’s darkest corners. Lighting and sound work together seamlessly, building tension and mood with expert timing.

And the orchestra, conducted by Nicholas Burbo—what a gift. Sondheim’s complex, layered score is handled with brilliance and sensitivity, setting the tone and pace with chilling effectiveness.

This SWEENEY TODD is a bold, breathtaking production anchored by two unforgettable leads and supported by a truly outstanding cast and crew. It’s thrilling, moving, and not to be missed.

The show runs through June 15, with additional performances just added—don’t wait, grab your tickets now!

https://www.saltpa.com/sweenytodd

05/05/2025

Never Forget. Never Forgive. Beware! Sweeney Todd comes to SALT Performing Arts May 30 - June 15, 2025.

Attend the dark, witty and Tony Award-winning tale of love, murder, and revenge set against the backdrop of 19th century London. Sweeney Todd has become a bloody, worldwide success since being awarded eight Tony's (including Best Musical) for its Broadway premiere. Stephen Sondheim's tasty, thrilling, theatrical treat has simultaneously shocked, awed, and delighted audiences across the world. SALT is ecstatic to be presenting it with an all-star cast and a full 18-piece live orchestra at our West Chester location.

“Sweeney Todd explores the dark side of human nature, the so-called bad wolf,” comments Lauren McComas, President and Artistic Director of SALT Performing Arts. “Our production delves into the show's dark themes through an intimate black-and-white lens that will draw you close to the characters while unflinchingly portraying the bloody heart of their tale.”

CAST
Sweeney Todd: Thomas Dempsey, Mrs. Lovett: Ally Hagan, Johanna: Emily Sgroi, Anthony: Jason Scansaroli, Judge Turpin: Mark Dixon, Beggar Woman: Rae Rosenbayger, The Beadle: Brian Bunce, Tobias: Pat Festa, Pirelli & Ensemble: Drew Weiss, Jonas Fogg & Ensemble: Kai Kasiguran, Ensemble & Sweeney u/s: Isaiah Butler, Ensemble & Lovett u/s: Emi Aungst, Ensemble & Johanna u/s: Marti Wynne, Ensemble & Beggar Woman u/s: Amy Armstrong, Ensemble & Beadle u/s: Matthew Buzzard, Ensemble: Abrham Bogale, Maura Taylor, Annie Hardison, Amelia Morning, Sheryl Jennings, Corinne Stroup, Heather Kalkiewicz, Choir & Toby u/s: Erin Murray, Choir: Avagrace Tuft, Theresa Forcellin, Shannon Murray, Drew Kalkiewicz, Shane Olinger, Judge Turpin u/s: Evan Albright, Anthony u/s: Nicholas Burbo, Pirelli u/s: Daniel Isijaw

CREW
Director/Choreographer: Chelsea Barnett, Producer & Casting Director: Lauren McComas, Assistant Director: Shannon Briding Price, Music Director/Conductor: Nicholas Burbo, Assistant Music Director: Emily Merow, Costume/Hair Design Director: Jennifer Frank, Costume/Hair Design Assistant: Elizabeth Tozer, Set, Lighting & Sound Designer: Robbie Merow, Props Master: Kylie Murray, Stage Manager: Daniel K. Williams, Lead Assistant Stage Manager: Julie Booth, Assistant Stage Manager: Adam Shoffner, Master Carpenter/Sound Board O: David Craig, Light Board Op: Evan Albright, Fight Choreographer/Intimacy Coordinator: Chelsea Barnett, Marketing Director & House Manager: Judy Elliott, Production Photographer for Mike Styer Photography: Carly Petitdemange, Dialect Coach: Susan Giddings, Resident Photographer: Michael Styer, Director of Cast Hospitality: Judi Kalkiewicz

Details for Sweeney Todd are as follows:

* This production takes place at SALT's West Chester location: 19 Hagerty Blvd, 19382.
* Seating is at full capacity.
* All ticket sales are final.
* If you need handicap accessibility, please choose seats in the Front Row A "handicapped section" and email [email protected].
* If you book your tickets on a mobile device, the system will choose the best available for you. If you book your tickets on a computer, you have the option of choosing your own seats.
* SALT is mask-optional for audience members. Performers will not be wearing masks.
* For more info check out our FAQ page.
* RATED R for adult content and violence.
* As part of a 10 year partnership with Chester County Food Bank, SALT will be collecting plastic bottles of ketchup for the Chester County Food Bank at every performance. No glass containers please. In addition, $1.00 from every ticket sale is directly donated to the Chester County Food Bank.

* Tickets can be purchased here: https://www.saltpa.com/sweenytodd
​
Show schedule:
* Friday, May 30, 7 PM | Dressy Attire & Champagne Opening Night
* Saturday, May 31, 2 PM, 7 PM
* Sunday, June 1, 2 PM
* Friday, June 6, 7 PM
* Saturday, June 7, 2 PM & 7PM
* Sunday, June 8, 2 PM
* Friday, June 13, 7 PM
* Saturday, June 14, 2 PM, 7 PM
* Sunday, June 15 2 PM

SALT Performing Arts aims to provide live community theatre productions, The Playhouse for Preschoolers at Montgomery School, summer/year-round theatre camps for kids, dinner theatre, and more. With excellence as the standard, SALT, a non-profit organization, believes that the “community” is paramount in community theatre and strives to foster an all-inclusive atmosphere that promotes a positive, uplifting experience for each individual. SALT involves people of all ages from all walks of life. If you are interested in learning more about SALT Performing Arts, making a donation, or being a sponsor, please email us at [email protected]. SALT Performing Arts, 1645 Art School Road, Chester Springs, PA 19425 is organized and operated exclusively ly for charitable purposes with a non-profit 501(c)(3) status. For more information or to request interviews, contact Judy Elliott ([email protected], 610-513-5839) or visit our website (saltpa.com)

Judy Elliott
Marketing Director/House Manager
SALT Performing Arts
[email protected] | 610-513-5839
www.SALTPA.com | www.STAGELIGHTPA.com

04/01/2025

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

PCS THEATER BRINGS THE 80s BACK TO LIFE WITH ROCK OF AGES

SWARTHMORE, PA March 31, 2025– Get ready to turn up the volume as PCS Theater presents Rock of Ages, a high-energy musical celebration of 1980s rock anthems, big dreams, and even bigger hair. The show runs April 11–26, 2025, and features hits like “Here I Go Again,” “Don’t Stop Believin’,” and “We’re Not Gonna Take It.”

Set in 1987 on Hollywood’s Sunset Strip, Rock of Ages follows aspiring rock star Drew Boley (Charles Harrison) and small-town girl Sherrie Christian (Catherine Callahan) as they pursue their dreams of making it big. Their journey unfolds in the legendary Bourbon Room, a gritty rock club under threat from developers who want to turn it into a sterile corporate strip mall. With the help of larger-than-life personalities like club owner Dennis Dupree (Mark Thompson), wacky narrator Lonny Barnett (P.J. Witkowski), and rock icon Stacee Jaxx (Andrew Staub), Drew and Sherrie must navigate love, ambition, and the excesses of the 80s.

PCS Theater has assembled a powerhouse cast of both new and returning talent including Meg Cranney (Regina Koontz), Shawn Weaver (Ja’Keith Gill) Deirdre McGettigan Henry (Justice Charlier), Ken Locicero (Hertz Klinemann), Nicholas Sewcheck (Franz Klinemann), Gabrielle Impriano (Dance Captain) and many more!

Director Anthony SanFilippo shares a personal connection to the show, recalling his own formative years in 1987—when he first discovered his love of music, theater, and sports.

“I have never had a more fun night at the theater,” SanFilippo says of seeing Rock of Ages on Broadway. “The energy of the show. The over-the-top, yet stereotypical characters. The b***y humor. It was all thrust upon the audience at warp speed in and around a couple dozen rock hits, each that I listened to repeatedly on my Walkman as an impressionable 13-year-old back in 1987.” He hopes audiences will embrace PCS Theater’s Bourbon Room as a place to revel in the “spicy naughtiness, indelicate suggestiveness, and unrepentant humor” of this unforgettable era.

JOIN THE PARTY!

Don’t miss your chance to experience the ultimate rock musical, live on stage! With choreography by Kaity Levesque, musical director by Theodora K. Psitos and Zander Meisner, a live band led by Pete Bretz, its over-the-top characters, hilarious storytelling, and an electrifying soundtrack, Rock of Ages is nothing but a good time! Doors open 30 minutes prior to show time with a full line-up of pre-show entertainment! Be sure to come early, grab a drink, and sing along!

SHOW DATES/TIMES:

Friday, April 11, 7:30 pm (opening night)
Saturday, April 12, 7:30 pm
Sunday, April 13, 2 pm (matinee and post-show talk back with actors and staff)
Friday April 18, 7:30 pm
Saturday, April 19, 2:00 pm (matinee)
Saturday, April 19, 7:30 pm (featuring understudies Michael Mann and Erika Dandridge as Drew and Sherrie)
Thursday, April 24, 7:30 pm
Friday, April 25, 7:30 pm
Saturday April 26, 2:00 pm (matinee featuring understudies Michael Mann and Erika Dandridge as Drew and Sherrie)
Saturday, April 26, 7:30 pm (closing)

WHERE: Players Club of Swarthmore, 614 Fairview Road, Swarthmore, PA 19081

TICKETS AND SPECIAL OFFERS: $15 students, $25 senior, $27 adult: https://pcstheater.org/. Use code OPENINGNIGHT to save $5 on tickets for April 11! PCS Theater is a proud member of Art-Reach and accepts ACCESS cards, ensuring that theater remains inclusive and accessible to all.

ROCK OF AGES is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals. www.concordtheatricals.com

CONTENT WARNING: Strong language, sexual innuendo, suggestive dancing, drug/alcohol references, mild violence, and exaggerated rock-and-roll stereotypes.

For tickets and more information, visit pcstheater.org or contact the box office 610-328-4271.

Social media (please tag or share as needed):

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pcs_theater/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pcstheater

About Players Club of Swarthmore

Founded in 1911, the Players Club of Swarthmore (PCS Theater) has been a cornerstone of community theater in Swarthmore, Pa., for over a century. What began as a small group of local performers has blossomed into a thriving organization, dedicated to bringing high-quality theatrical experiences to our community. From our humble beginnings in the Women’s Club building to our current home on Fairview Road, PCS Theater has been entirely volunteer-run, showcasing the passion and dedication of our members.

Our rich history includes productions of classic plays, contemporary works, children’s programming and musical theater. Today, PCS Theater continues to offer a diverse range of entertainment, including main stage productions, second stage shows in an intimate black box, and artistic and technical workshops. We take pride in our commitment to artistic excellence, community engagement, and the nurturing of local talent.

Press contact for interviews, reviews, and content:

Anne Marie Scalies

Marketing Director

[email protected]

Photos: CARMEN ROSSI

04/01/2025

The Philadelphia Chorus Spring 2025 Concert
“Remembrance”

featuring

Gabriel Fauré - Requiem with guest artist Brenton Mattox-Scott, bass

Kim André Arnesen - Requiem for Solace and other works by Z. Randall Stroope and more

Saturday, April 5, 2025
4:00pm
Philadelphia Episcopal Cathedral
19 S. 38th Street, Philadelphia

www.thephiladelphiachorus.org/support

01/18/2025

🎭 OPEN AUDITIONS: Crossing Delancey 🎭

Auditions for Crossing Delancey, a charming comedy under the direction of Joel Rosenwasser, will take place January 21st from 7pm to 9pm at the Allens Lane Theater. All auditions are by appointment only.

We’re looking for talented, passionate performers to bring this heartwarming story to life! Don’t miss your chance to be part of this exciting non-union production.✨

Rehearsals start in late January.
Production Dates take place�Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from April 25 – May 10, 2025.�

To sign up for an audition slot, please visit: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0A4AABAC2AA6FACE9-54151679-auditions #/

You can learn more about the audition process and obtain preparation materials by visiting our website and checking out the page for Submissions & Auditions.