LIMELIGHT
NOVEMBER–DECEMBER 2 016
FIFTH THIRD BANK’S A CHRISTMAS CAROL PAGE 4
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IN THIS ISSUE
FIFTH THIRD BANK’S A CHRISTMAS CAROL
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THE SPIRIT(S) OF CHRISTMAS Take a look back at the four ghosts who spur Ebenezer Scrooge’s transformation from miser to benefactor.
AROUND ACTORS 10
THE MAGIC OF A CHRISTMAS CAROL SHINES BRIGHTEST THROUGH YOU Your support makes a difference, keeping the magic of storytelling alive from year to year.
FROM PILOTS TO PROGRAMS 12
Check out our new educational initiatives for youth and families.
ACTORS THEATRE EVENTS CALENDAR 14
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Don’t miss a thing this season with our detailed events calendar.
DEAR FRIEND, VOLUME 16, ISSUE 2 MANAGING EDITOR Sara Durham SENIOR EDITORS/WRITERS Laura Humble Hannah Rae Montgomery Jenni Page-White Jessica Reese Amy Wegener GRAPHIC DESIGNER Mary Kate Zihar CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Sara Durham Melissa Hines Jane B. Jones Liz Magee CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Bill Brymer Sara Durham Kate Leggett
316 West Main Street Louisville, KY 40202-4218 ARTISTIC DIRECTOR Les Waters
Welcome to our holiday edition of Limelight! The 2016-2017 Season is well underway and has already won much acclaim. Praised as “a highly engaging and accessible start to the new season” by Arts-Louisville.com, The 39 Steps took audiences on a hilarious and thrilling spy chase with dozens of colorful characters in pursuit of a dangerous secret. Fifth Third Bank’s Dracula launched its fans into the Halloween season with an almost brand-new cast, and even more blood! As BroadwayWorld.com said of the cult favorite, “I can’t recommend this show enough… It’s the perfect thing to usher in autumn.” With such success behind us already, we are looking forward to taking audiences into the holiday season with more compelling stories and classic entertainment. As fall turns chillier and the holidays approach, it’s once again time for another of Louisville’s favorite traditions. Fifth Third Bank’s A Christmas Carol, the nation’s second-longest-running production of Dickens’ classic tale, will captivate audiences with all the magic and splendor the Pamela Brown Auditorium can hold. Drew Fracher returns to direct this beloved story of Scrooge, Tiny Tim and all your favorite ghosts, a memorable night of theatre the entire family can enjoy. If you have not yet purchased your tickets, you can do so now! Louisville loves A Christmas Carol, so make sure you don’t miss out on this magnificent tradition before it sells out. Finally, we want to thank you for making Actors Theatre so great. Your generosity and support through your ticket purchases and donations help to make Louisville’s theatre a leading force in the industry. We just couldn’t do it without you. Please keep us in mind as you prepare your holiday shopping lists, and remember that giving the gift of live theatre creates lasting memories for friends and family who experience it. Season Ticket Packages and Gift Certificates are still available for the 2016-2017 Season, and can be purchased online at ActorsTheatre.org, or through our Box Office by calling 502.584.1205. Happy Holidays!
MANAGING DIRECTOR Kevin E. Moore TICKET SERVICES CALL 502.584.1205 OR 1.800.4ATL.TIX ONLINE Ac torsTheatre.org
Les Waters
Artistic Director
Kevin E. Moore
Managing Director
GROUP SALES 502.585.1210 FAX 502.561.3337 STOP BY the Box Office at Third & Main. Free shor t-term parking jus t inside the Main Street entrance.
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A CHRISTMAS CAROL
Charles Dickens adapted by Barbara Field directed by Drew Fracher based on the book by
Nov. 25–Dec. 23, 2016
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THE SPIRIT(S) OF CHRISTMAS The story of Ebenezer Scrooge, told with stunning visual spectacle and song on Actors Theatre’s stage every season, is a parable of redemption: an ill-tempered miser transforms overnight into a warmhearted benefactor, full of newfound holiday cheer. It’s fitting that on a day intended to celebrate family and fellowship and making merry together, Scrooge is finally able to feel affection and responsibility toward his fellow man. But Scrooge’s sudden infusion of Christmas spirit might not have happened if it weren’t for a series of unexpected visitors who pull him from his bed on Christmas Eve. They force him to confront bittersweet memories from his past, missed opportunities for connection in the present—and the grim fate that awaits if he doesn’t change his ways. Read on for a look at the four ghosts who remind Scrooge (and all of us) to move through the world with gratitude and joy, giving generously to those in need.
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JACOB MARLEY It’s Christmas Eve, and Scrooge has retreated to his cold, gloomy rooms, stubbornly relishing his solitude. But he’s surprised by the apparition of his old business partner, Jacob Marley, here from beyond the grave and looking decidedly worse for wear. Since his death he’s wandered the world without rest, fettered by regrets for a life of greed and selfishness. Scrooge is perilously close to suffering the same fate, but there’s still hope, provided he can learn his lesson—and Marley has summoned more spirits to see that he does.
Mankind was my business. The common welfare was my business. Charity, mercy, forbearance, benevolence were all my business... Why did I walk through crowds of fellow-beings with my eyes turned away?
Marc Bovino as Marley and William McNulty as Scrooge. Photo by Bill Brymer, 2015.
I wear the chain I forged in life. I made it, link by link and yard by yard, and of my own free will I wore it... Would you know the weight and length of the chain you bear yourself?
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Larry Bull as Marley and William McNulty as Scrooge. Photo by Bill Brymer, 2014.
THE GHOST OF CHRISTMAS PAST Once Marley departs, Scrooge is visited by the glittering Ghost of Christmas Past, who (amid feats of stunning aerial choreography) transports him back into painful memories from his youth. She conjures for Scrooge visions of old friends and loves, now lost—reminding him of the ways in which his appetite for financial gain slowly but surely devoured his heart.
I am your memory, your transport, your history... Shut me out at your peril! I have come about the business of your reclamation.
William McNulty as Scrooge and Shanara Gabrielle as the Ghost of Christmas Past. Photo by Bill Brymer, 2014.
Romance, hope— a healthy
of share a quiet moment with h Left: Ebenezer Scrooge (William McNulty) watches his belovedpercentage Belle (Emily Stout) younger self (Collin Morris). Right: The colorful extravagance of the holiday season comes to life with the charis mortals’ time is Ghost of Christmas Present (Lee Palmer). All photos by Bill Brymer.
spent on love.
Lindsay Noelle Whiting as the Ghost of Christmas Past and William McNulty as Scrooge, as figures from Scrooge’s past dance behind him. Photo by Bill Brymer, 2015.
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THE GHOST OF CHRISTMAS PRESENT Next, Scrooge meets the jolly and effusive Ghost of Christmas Present, who takes him across the city to see how other households are toasting Christmas Day. When they visit the home of his clerk, Bob Cratchit, Scrooge is appalled at the meager spread that’s meant to feed an entire family—but the Ghost of Christmas Present reminds him that true fortune lies in the loving company of others. By that account, the overworked and underpaid Cratchit is a rich man.
Everyone has enough. Wonderful word, enough... Behold them, one of the most fortunate families I visit tonight… They are happy, grateful, and contented with Jermaine Miles as the Ghost of Christmas Present. Photo by Bill Brymer, 2015.
the time.
Lee Palmer (left) as the Ghost of Christmas Present, showing Scrooge (William McNulty, second Duringfrom a Christmas toast,of the Ghost of Christmas (Lee Palmer), Mrs. Cratchit (Celina Dean), and the right) a scene Christmas cheer in thePresent Cratchit family’s home. Photo by Bill Brymer, 2014. Cratchit children drink to Scrooge’s health (William McNulty). All photos by Bill Brymer.
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THE GHOST OF CHRISTMAS YET TO COME Finally, Scrooge encounters the fearsome specter of the Ghost of Christmas Yet to Come, embodied in this production by a puppet so large that it looms 18 feet high and requires three crew members to operate. The Ghost of Christmas Yet to Come provides the most chilling vision of all, showing Scrooge the lonely death that lies in store for him—as well as another heartbreaking loss, which a measure of kindness and generosity from Scrooge might have prevented.
The menacing Ghost of Christmas Yet to Come looms over Scrooge (William McNulty, right). Photo by Bill Brymer, 2014.
William McNulty as Scrooge, cowering before his future tombstone. Photo by Bill Brymer, 2015.
Good Spirit, assure me that I may yet change these shadows you have shown me and lead an altered life. I will honor Christmas in my heart and try and keep it all the year. The spirits of the past, present, and future will strive within me... Oh, tell me I may sponge away the writing on that stone...
When Scrooge awakens to find that it’s Christmas morning, he’s a changed man. Thanks to the four ghosts who haunted him, Scrooge “became as good a friend, as good a master, as good a man as the good old city knew... And it was always said of him, that he knew how to keep Christmas well, if any man alive possessed the knowledge.”
—Hannah Rae Montgomery —Written and compiled by Jessica Reese
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I am as light as a feather, I am as happy as an ange as a drunken man. A merry Christmas to every-body
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el, I am as merry as a school-boy. I am as giddy y! A happy New Year to all the world! —Ebenezer Scrooge
THE MAGIC OF A CHRISTMAS CAROL SHINES BRIGHTEST THROUGH YOU.
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Top Hat: $109
Each holiday season, through the beloved tale of Ebenezer Scrooge, generations of theatregoers are reminded of the value of a generous spirit. Your gift will make a difference. The workmanship of our local artisans, spectacularly on display in our production of A Christmas Carol, can be kept alive through your support. A gift of any size to our annual fund maintains the magic from year to year. Please consider keeping Actors Theatre in your heart by making a tax-deductible donation online at ActorsTheatre.org/Donate.
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FROM PILOTS TO PROGRAMS Actors Theatre has a long tradition of interacting with students during the school day. Through pre-show workshops, student matinees and playwriting residencies, Actors serves over 15,000 students annually. Last season, we began to explore how we could engage young people (and their families) through evening and weekend offerings at the theatre. Building upon the success of last year’s pilot programs, we are excited to let you know what we have planned for this season!
TEEN NIGHT! Many people first discover their love of theatre as teenagers. Teen Night gives teens increased access to our productions through $10 tickets* and a special talkback after the performance. This season we’ve hosted Teen Nights for The 39 Steps and Macbeth, and have an event for Circle Mirror Transformation (2/10) upcoming. Youth attending Teen Night have the opportunity to connect with other young people who are passionate about theatre. Actors and members of the Professional Training Company are also there to welcome and mingle. Additionally, Teen Nights are part of our larger initiative to start a Teen Council.
ACTORS THEATRE’S TEEN COUNCIL is an opportunity for local teens (grades 9–12) to engage with a leading regional theatre. We’re looking to bring together a diverse group of students interested in becoming dynamic arts leaders, not only in their schools but in the larger Louisville community. Through monthly meetings and regular events at Actors Theatre, teens will learn what it takes to make the theatre run, onstage and off. As passionate ambassadors, the Teen Council will eventually organize Teen Night activities and coordinate events connected with Professional Training Company productions and the New Voices Young Playwrights Festival.
NEW SENSORY-FRIENDLY WORKSHOP FOR THE VERY YOUNG! We’re excited to announce that this winter we will offer “Scrooge’s Christmas Journey,” a sensory-friendly workshop based around the world of A Christmas Carol, on November 19 at 10:30 a.m. Last season we offered “Molly’s Starstuff,” our first sensory-friendly workshop. During the workshop, children and their parents explored the world of Peter and the Starcatcher through shadow puppets, costumes, pasta art and musical instruments. “Scrooge’s Christmas Journey” will be similarly interactive, engaging children and families in Scrooge’s adventure through imaginative play. This workshop is best enjoyed by children 18 months to 5 years old, though siblings and older children are welcome to attend. Our sensory-friendly workshops are designed to create a relaxed and welcoming environment for all families, including those with children on the autism spectrum or those with sensory sensitivities. For tickets, please call the Box Office at 502.584.1205. *Use the code TEEN when purchasing tickets online or through the box office.
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—Jane B. Jones
Clockwise from top left: Parents and children at Molly’s Starstuff, 2016. Photo by Sara Durham. Students from Bullitt East High School at The 39 Steps Teen Night, 2016. Photo by Kate Leggett. Cast members Zuzanna Szadkowski, Carter Gill, Jesse J. Perez, David Ryan Smith , Actors Theatre staff, and students from Assumption High School, Ballard High School, Bullitt East High School, Jeffersonville High School and Trinity High School at The 39 Steps Teen Night, 2016. Photo by Victoria Masteller.
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NOVEMBER & DECEMBER 2016 A COMPLETE GUIDE TO EVENTS AT ACTORS THEATRE
11/4 & 11/5 PROFESSIONAL TRAINING COMPANY SOLO MIO ROUND #3 2 p.m. on 11/4 and 10 a.m. on 11/5 Victor Jory Theatre
Join the 45th Professional Training Company as the Acting Apprentices present their solo pieces, written and performed by each actor. The event is FREE, but ticketed. Please call the Box Office at 502.584.1205 to reserve.
11/19 SENSORY-FRIENDLY WORKSHOP: SCROOGE’S CHRISTMAS JOURNEY 10:30 a.m. Actors Theatre Rehearsal Studios 315 West Market St., 5th Floor For ages 18 months–5 years
Join us for an introduction to A Christmas Carol for our youngest audiences in this hands-on workshop. For tickets, please call the Box Office at 502.584.1205.
11/19 BEHIND-THE-SCENES TECH EVENT: A CHRISTMAS CAROL 6 p.m. for Season Ticket Holders only
After a light reception, Season Ticket Holders will have a chance to step into the theatre and get a glimpse of what goes on during a technical rehearsal. The event is FREE, but ticketed. Please call the Box Office at 502.584.1205 to reserve.
11/25 OPENING NIGHT RECEPTION: FIFTH THIRD BANK’S A CHRISTMAS CAROL immediately following the 8 p.m. performance
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12/5 & 12/6 PROFESSIONAL TRAINING COMPANY NEW PLAY PROJECT #3: GOLDEN BY CORY HINKLE Tim Faulkner Gallery 1512 Portland Ave., Louisville, KY 40203
Actors Theatre has commissioned three playwrights to write one-act plays for the Professional Training Company to develop and perform this fall. Performance times will be announced in November.
12/10 MEET THE MAKERS from 10–11 a.m. Pamela Brown Auditorium
An exclusive event for donors at the Principal Artist Level and above. Learn how A Christmas Carol comes to life each night in this up-close event with the designers, technicians, and artisans. To reserve your spot, please contact Susan Creech, Donor Relations Coordinator, at SCreech@actorstheatre.org, or 502-584-1265 ext. 3085.
UP NEXT
LADY DAY AT EMERSON’S BAR AND GRILL by Lanie Robertson directed by Bill Fennelly
1/3–29 LADY DAY AT EMERSON’S BAR AND GRILL Join jazz icon Billie Holiday for a cabaret evening of classic songs and the life story of a legend.
HAPPY HOLIDAYS FROM OUR FAMILY TO YOURS! During the holiday season more than ever, our thoughts turn gratefully to those who have made our stories possible. In this spirit, we sincerely thank you and send you our best wishes for the holidays and a Happy New Year.
CIRCLE MIRROR TRANSFORMATION by Annie Baker directed by Meredith McDonough
1/24–2/12 CIRCLE MIRROR TRANSFORMATION In a community center acting class, real-life drama hides beneath imaginative—and sometimes awkward— theatre games.
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Non-Profit Organization US Postage PAID Louisville, KY Permit No. 549
316 WEST MAIN STREET LOUISVILLE, KENTUCKY 40202-4218 Les Waters, Artistic Director Kevin E. Moore, Managing Director
Thank you to our sponsors: The Shubert Foundation
Doris Duke Charitable Foundation
The Harold and Mimi Steinberg Charitable Trust
PRESENTS
PRESENTS
Lobster Feast 2017
The Gheens Foundation
LOUISVILLE MARRIOTT DOWNTOWN 6 P.M. SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 2017 Enjoy an all-you-can-eat lobster buffet, signature cocktails, dancing, and silent and live auctions, all in support of Actors Theatre of Louisville.
LIMITED TICKETS ARE AVAILABLE SO ORDER NOW! TICKETS ARE $300 PER PERSON, $3,000 FOR A TABLE (SEATS 10), AND $5,000 FOR A VIP TABLE (SEATS 10). FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO ORDER TICKETS visit LobsterFeast.org or contact Susan Creech at 502.584.1265 ext. 3085 or SCreech@actorstheatre.org.