SPOTLIGHT
on shows
S RLT. Real. Live.Theatre
Pass A bimonthly newsletter for Rome Little Theatre and Friends of the DeSoto members and contributors
R OME L ITTLE T HEATRE
AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2014
BACKSTAGE PASS AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2014
The Adventures of Michael Hillman By Wendell Barnes
o you thought Tom Sawyer had lots of great adventures! Just wait until you read about the adventures that led Michael Hillman to become the director of RLT’s latest production, “The Adventures of Tom Sawyer”! This is Michael’s second directorial effort at RLT, but he has been involved in theatre through many adventures during the years both behind the scenes and onstage. His first directorial task at RLT was taking over the job of director of last season’s “Frankenstein,” when Holly Moore became too ill to carry on. Michael was in the cast playing Metz, one of the villainous graverobbers, when, unfortunately, Holly had to drop her vision for the project. Michael stepped up to the role and stayed in his brief acting role too, taking on double duty. The play was a resounding success, and even added on a special performance in honor of Holly on Halloween, Holly’s favorite holiday. She passed away just after the strike when the show was over, almost as if she wanted to be sure that the production was completed before she left us. Her spirit is still with us always in the make-up room where she spent so many hours donating her considerable talents in hair and make-up. Lauren Jones also came to the rescue to help Michael out in that show as assistant director, and filled one of the roles that became vacant as well. Lauren has been by his side for this production as well. His invaluable producer for this show is the always dependable and resourceful Neal Brackett, who this time also designed and ensured that the sets were built. Michael has also been involved in productions at Calhoun High School, where he teaches English, and for Calhoun Little Theatre. He has made well over ten appearances on the RLT stage as an actor, including the Woody Allen lead role in “Play It Again, Sam,” and has been nominated and won Roman Awards. Michael as a performer is comfortable in dramas and comedies, and especially loves the horror stories as well. Michael says that the audiences can expect to see the familiar scenes of the Tom Sawyer adventures, such as the fence painting scene, the friendship between Tom and Huck Finn, the scariness of Injun Joe, and the scene of Tom, Huck and Injun Joe at their own funerals. But his goal for this production is to convey the “tall tale” qualities of Mark Twain, who wrote this novel as a “boy’s adventure,” and not as a drama with any great obvious moral, so he is
directing this show with an emphasis on the broad and sentimental qualities, lighter than the misanthropic qualities that Twain usually is known for in his writing. Twain was conveying this quality in the scene when the crowd is eager to lynch Muff Potter, presenting humanity in a negative way. But Muff, played by Jacob Faile, is the emotional anchor of the play who is falsely accused of killing Doc Riverson, when all along Injun Joe is the murderer. This adaptation by Charlotte Chorpenning, a famous adapter of plays for families, is written in four acts, which will be presented at RLT as two acts in two scenes each. Michael’s joys and frustrations have come in working with this wonderful cast of young actors: watching them as they develop their characters, and working individually with those who do not know the basic theatre skills. Michael has been one of the movers and shakers behind the development of RLT Jr., including teaching in the workshops at school breaks and in the summer, and it has helped that many of those who joined the workshops auditioned for the show. The workshops are filling a great void left by the late Sherri Bacon when she suddenly passed away several years ago, and there was nowhere for young actors to go to get basic theatre training. RLT has long benefited from the training Sherri provided, and now her legacy is carried on in the Young Actor’s Workshops and RLT Jr. Michael will continue as one of the instructors for the workshops, and he would like to see the annual children’s season opener for RLT become an RLT Jr. production in the near future and be separate from the regular RLT season, a dream of many of us. So come see what may be the last children’s production of RLT, and make way to support the new RLT Jr. as they continue to provide workshops and productions to develop our young people into actors that will grace the adult productions one day! One last adventure Michael is excited about for this production: on Sunday, August 17, RLT and the Coosa River Basin Initiative sponsored a “Tom Sawyer Day on the River.” Participants enjoyed a grilled out lunch and paddling on the Oostanaula River from the Ridge Ferry Park Pavilions to Heritage Park, to celebrate the upcoming production. More adventures in Michael’s life to come: each of the six productions August 22nd-31st, and many more sure to follow in this talented young director’s life! The Adventures of Michael Page Hillman will continue! «1
R OME L ITTLE T HEATRE
Pass AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2014 2014-2015 Board of Directors Officers President
Chuck Morris charlesmorrisjr@comcast.net VP of Membership
Tracy Hellriegel Tracy@tracyslack.com VP of Production
Tiff Magruder edenchip@aol.com VP of Public Relations
Neal Brackett nealop@aol.com VP of Communication
Chris Parker parkerchris42@gmail.com Treasurer
Matt Shoemaker Matt.Shoemaker @eby-brown.com Secretary
Tammy Childers tammyschilders@gmail.com
Members at Large Paul Culotta siciliangpa@att.net
With Mary Ortwein, RLT Office Manager
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e sadly say “Bye!” to our Berry intern, Grace McMullen, who has taken on all kinds of jobs for us this summer. You may have talked with her on the phone, seen her working in box office, or received an email from her. She taught the musical theatre class for our summer workshop, and completed a variety of projects for us. We greatly appreciate all of her hard work and cheerful spirit. Our 2014-15 season is off to a great start! The Adventures of Tom Sawyer runs August 22 thru Labor Day weekend. Our congratulations go out to Mollie Brown (one of our RLT kids) and Josh Jarrell on their marriage (September 20th). Mollie’s Mom, Debby Brown, “approved” Josh as Mollie’s boyfriend a couple of years ago, so I’m sure she’s celebrating their wedding now. May they have many years of happiness together! Ruby’s Row Fund has $2230! Now we only need $7770 more to purchase the 1st row of seats in the center section of the balcony. For
anyone who doesn’t know who Ruby is, she’s RLT’s resident ghost (a mischievous little girl who loves the DeSoto Theatre). We’ve heard that she used to like sitting up in the balcony. If you would like to donate to Ruby’s Row, please give us a call at 706-295-7171. There has been a recent electrical problem in the Historic DeSoto building. It has left the new concessions area and Tiff’s office without power for several weeks, but we hope to have the problems resolved soon. For the duration we’ve moved our concessions area across the hall to the Cathy Greer Gallery. The Reading Committee has started looking at suggestions for 2016-17. If you have a show you’d like to see at RLT, please submit your suggestion for them to consider. We thank local artists, Siri Selle and Scott Wingard, for sharing their artwork with us at the DeSoto. Their paintings were on display during the summer, and many patrons enjoyed them. «
See you at the Theatre!
David Clonts davidclonts@bellsouth.net
Suzanne Clonts suzanneclonts@bellsouth.net
CAST OF
Chris Davidson cwrdavidson@yahoo.com
CAST OF
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Mandy Maloney mrs.maloney@gmail.com mewalker2424@gmail.com Executive Director Megkeat@comcast.net Office Manager
Mary Ortwein rltoffice@bellsouth.net Costumier
Becky Magruder torchybee@aol.com Event Coordinator
Nicole Williams nicolewilliams2428@yahoo.com Rome Little Theatre At the historic DeSoto Theatre 530 Broad St. Rome GA 30161 Mailing Address: PO Box 1063 Rome GA 30162 romelittletheatre.com Facebook.com/RomeLittleTheatre, Inc.
706-295-7171 Backstage Pass is published bimonthly and is free to Rome Little Theatre and Historic DeSoto Theatre Foundation members and Contributors.
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Dr. Scott Jackson Williamson understudy: Marc Brynon Narrator Todd Williams understudy: Morgan Higginbotham
Mary Walker
Megan Keating
Janet Alexis Robinson understudy:Audrey Roberts
Tom Sawyer Jon Caruvana Jr
Judge Thatcher Zac Mitchell
Huckleberry Finn Gary Jones III
The Minister Dalton Urda
Joe Harper Isaac Brackett
Bud Riverson Matt Rodriguez
Ben Rogers Ryan Acree
Aunt Polly Abbey Williams
Rocky Brendon Earp
Becky Thatcher Gloria Murray
Widow Douglas Anna Amos
Riff Raff James Swendsen understudy: Daniel Murchland
Sid Wells Hernandez
The Minister’s Wife Molly Finnegan
Muff Potter Jacob Faile
Mrs Thatcher Joy Christie
Injun Joe Alex Mitchell
Mrs. Harper Olivia Parker
Dr. Robinson/ The Sheriff Micah Zimmerman
Mr. Harper Barton Sopata
Hooper Reid Finnegan
Townspeople Phoebe Shane Rachel Gilreath
Usherette/Trixie Lillian Shaw understudy: Beth McCain Frank-n-Furter Austen Earp understudy: Bill Wear
Magenta Nancy Dobbs understudy: Moriah Medina Columbia Emily Earp understudy: Taylor Barton Eddie Earnest Simpson understudy: Ricky Clay Brad Russell Evans
Dance Captain Emily Tumlin Phantoms: Mary Asbury Taylor Barton Marc Brynon Ricky Clay Amber Culberson Russell Evans Morgan Higginbotham Jamie Landers Becky Magruder Moriah Media Beth McCain Kali McMillan Daniel Murchland Audrey Roberts Hillary Sawyer Emily Thompson Emily Tumlin Bill Wear House: Jen Naddy Clarissa Snow Florice Schnieder Abby Lyons Ray Lyons
ROME LITTLE THEATRE/HISTORIC DESOTO THEATRE FOUNDATION
Rome Little Theatre and the Historic DeSoto Theatre Foundation Gifted with $100,000 Endowment Fund
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e are very pleased to announce the creation of the Jason G. Fordham Memorial Endowment Fund. Gifted by an individual who asked not to be identified, the Jason G. Fordham Memorial Endowment Fund was established to honor the memory of Jason Fordham, who passed away September 24, 2013, following a 4-year battle with cancer. Jason was a supporter of the arts in Rome and Floyd County, Georgia, particularly related to theatre and the preservation of the Historic DeSoto Theatre and was a member of both the Rome Little Theatre Board of Directors and the Historic DeSoto Theatre Foundation Board, serving as president of the Rome Little Theatre Board of Directors from 2009-2011. The designated purposes of the Jason G. Fordham Memorial Endowment Fund are: (a) to honor Jason Fordham’s contributions to theatre;
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e were waist deep in rehearsing for Tom Sawyer. Literally, I was onbook watching Tom and Huck sneaking around in the graveyard with a dead cat, ready to offer up helpful line fragments if one of them got stumped, when Michael Hillman sat down next me and leaned in close. “They’re saying Robin Williams died,” he told me in a low voice. I kind of froze with this confused expression stuck on my face. “What?” I said, flatly. “Robin Williams is dead.” He was tilting the screen of his cell phone toward me, showing me where a friend had text messaged him the news. My eyes didn’t exactly focus on the tiny screen though, instead, my hands shot for my phone to pull up a news site. On that late Monday night, my feed was flooded by shocked laments and tributes to the late actor and comedian. I sat there, frozen for several seconds, completely stunned beyond any other emotion. A little voice in me was shouting, “STOP REHEARSAL! STOP EVERYTHING!” But of course, I had to duct tape that little voice’s mouth shut and shove it in a closet until after rehearsal. The show must go on, as they say.
BACKSTAGE PASS AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2014
(b) to serve as Jason Fordham’s legacy; and (c) to provide on-going support for Rome Little Theatre and the Historic DeSoto Theatre Foundation. The income from the investment of monies in the Jason G. Fordham Memorial Endowment Fund will be equally Memorial Endowment Fund divided between Rome Little Theatre and the Historic DeSoto Theatre Foundation to be used in whatever manner the individual Jason’s legacy and his many contributions organizations deem appropriate in support to theatre as well as provide on-going of the arts in Rome and Floyd County, support for Rome Little Theatre and the Georgia. Historic DeSoto Theatre Foundation. In addition to the $100,000.00 initial Donations earmarked for the Jason G. donation to establish the Jason G. Fordham Memorial Endowment Fund may Fordham Memorial Endowment Fund, both be safely made online at Rome Little Theatre and the Historic romelittletheatre.com or mailed to the DeSoto Theatre Foundation gladly accept Historic DeSoto Theatre, 530 Broad Street, donations to the Endowment Fund to honor Rome, Georgia 30161. «
Jason G Fordham
because the performance was a little too poignant, as our parents had just divorced. There is something important that needs to be said about Robin Williams’ demise. Any kind of artist – including actors, painters, and musicians – are very emotionally affected people. Studies show that creative people are more prone to You can’t be in this business and not have depression, and that oppressed creativity been touched by Robin Williams’ acting in can manifest in unhealthy ways. some way. Whether it was a comedic role or Overwhelming stress, unhealthy a more serious, dramatic portrayal, we’ve all relationships, alcoholism, neurotic behavior. taken something away from his work. No Community theater can be a healthy outlet matter the film, Williams had a kind, sincere for creative spirits and empaths. delivery style that made you feel I remember playing princess as a child, comfortable. His persona generated this lost deep in the fantasy world that warmth I can’t quite put my finger on, and he materialized in shimmering lights around the had a knack of making you feel close to his limitless boundaries of my imagination. I was characters. a prairie girl on my grandparents’ farm. I was So this loss hits pretty hard. a witch, studying for my Charms exam at RLT Jr. is performing Aladdin, Jr. next Hogwarts. But as a creative person, I have season, and I guarantee whomever is cast had bouts of depression over the years. as the genie will draw from Williams’ After becoming involved in theatre in high performance. I am equally sure that when school, I felt I was beginning to find a niche. audience members see the show, he will After I auditioned and was cast in my first pop into their minds at some point. As a child Rome Little Theatre production in 2010, I felt of the late 80’s, Aladdin was a staple of my I’d found a home away from home. This childhood and to this day, my favorite Disney theatre is very important to a great number film, solely because of Williams. The humor of people for personal reasons. and pop culture references made that movie, I wish I had a third of the comedic talent in my opinion. Robin Williams possessed. But I think But Williams is iconic in so many other people – not just actors, but anyone – can roles. Mork and Mindy, What Dreams May take some of his sweet sincerity and Come, The Dead Poets Society, The Fisher incorporate it into their lives. Whether it’s a King… the list goes on and on. I remember monologue, an exchange at a restaurant, vividly having to leave the movie theater, my chatting with the mechanic who’s changing father carrying my older sister who had burst oil in your car, we could all stand to spread into tears 20 minutes into Mrs. Doubtfire, some happy love, Robin-Williams-style. « Page 3
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ing dong! (No, the witch is not dead, but school bells are ringing,) and with that comes the new theatre seasons all around our area. So after you have seen all of “The Adventures of Tom Sawyer” for all six performances (plus school shows!), you might want to try out some of the other shows within driving distance. Perhaps if Tom had been in a theatre instead of fooling around with his adventures, he might not have gotten into so much trouble! So come with me on a journey “Beyond the RLT!” Hurry, hurry, hurry if you want to see the Cedartown Theatrical Performers Company’s production of “Disney’s Beauty and the Beast,” because it will only run this weekend, August 15th at 7:30 and August 16th at 2:30 and 7:30 at the Cedartown Performing Arts Center. This will be the full production, and their performances are usually this time
annually, but since they do not get a lot of local publicity, sometimes we miss them! I’ve seen most of the productions of this company, founded by Chuck Morris, Bill and Catherine Lundy, and these local young people do a terrific job and it’s worth the drive. Don’t miss it! The colleges are cranking up their seasons too, and the Berry College Theatre Company will open with the wonderful longest-running musical in America, Tom Jones’ and Harvey Schmidt’s “The Fantasticks” on Sept. 25th, running through Oct. 5th. Shows are at 7:30 p.m. Thurs.-Sat. and 2:00 p.m. on Sundays. Call for reservations at 706-236-2263. The Shorter University Theatre Department has not posted their season as yet, but a little birdie told me that they are opening with William Gibson’s classic drama about how Helen Keller learned language called “The Miracle Worker.” For dates, keep
checking their web site at su.shorter.edu/theatre-season to see what else they might be coming up with. You can also phone them at 706-2337288. Generally their shows are around the same dates as those at Berry College. I’m very proud to announce the next production of Calhoun Little Theatre, the favorite musical “Nunsense,” to run at the Ratner Theatre in the Harris Arts Center August 22nd-31st, 7:00 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays and 3:00 p.m. on the 31st. You don’t want to miss RLT’s own Mary Ortwein as the Reverend Mother, Sister Mary Regina and Rachael Clark in the hilarious role of Sister Mary Amnesia. Call HAC for tickets at 770-773-0723. The Pumphouse Players in the Legion Theatre in nearby Cartersville is currently in production for their first show of the season: the hilarious classic about the man who is best friends with a six foot three and a half inch tall imaginary rabbit named “Harvey.” The show will be on Fridays and Saturdays at 8:00 through August 23rd and Sunday August 17th at 3:00, so hurry if you want to catch it. Next up for them will be “Rebel Yells,” a tale of loss and redemption during the fall of the South, about seven Confederate soldiers and a nurse in a hospital in Richmond during the Civil War. This show will run Sept. 12th-20th, and for more information you can go to www.pumphouseplayers.com
(Continued online)
Congratulations to new Honorary Lifetime Members, Wayne and Angela Jones! A very well-deserved and long-overdue recognition! Thank you, Wayne and Angela for all that you have contributed to Rome Little Theatre! You have made it a better place and we appreciate you!
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We are very proud to present the first recipients of two new RLT awards. The Horizon Award recognizes the exceptional dedication and performance during the first year of participation with Rome Little Theatre, and goes to Dalton Urda. The Volunteer of the Year Award recognizes the hard work, willingness to serve and countless other contributions that support Rome Little Theatre, and goes to Tina Brinson. Congratulations and thank you to you both! We are very grateful, and honored to have you as a part of our family! ROME LITTLE THEATRE/HISTORIC DESOTO THEATRE FOUNDATION
Honoring Jason By Jim Curry
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t is hard to believe that it has been a year this month that RLT’s past president, Jason Fordham, passed away. We miss Jason every day but continue to seek ways to honor his memory. Since Jason’s death, his novel, Lords of the North Kingdom: Blood and Stone, has been published and is being sold in the RLT gift shop. Jason’s novel, a fantasy adventure story set in the time of castles, horse-drawn carts, and creatures that don’t really exist in the world, was just one of Jason’s many creative endeavors. Fans of Lord of the Ring and Harry Potter will definitely want to check out Jason’s book.
Also, since Jason’s death, the Jason G. Fordham Memorial Endowment Fund has been established to honor Jason’s memory, recognize his many contributions to theatre, and provide on-going support for both Rome Little Theatre and the Historic DeSoto Theatre Foundation. Some of you may have already contributed to the Jason G. Fordham Memorial Endowment Fund. If you have not, September 2014, the oneyear anniversary of Jason’s death, would give you a wonderful opportunity to do so. Rome Little Theatre and the Historic DeSoto Theatre Foundation greatly appreciate your support. «
Just with my personal experience at RLT, I see how important the theatre is and know, even better than I did in high school theatre, how much a show can change someone - for the better. This little community and family network you find within the Desoto Theatre not only have changed me but continue to teach the magic of theatre, the art of imagination, and boldness to “every man, woman, and child in this town!” (Sorry I couldn’t pass up the opportunity to quote my sermon in Tom Sawyer J) ho needs a caffeine buzz when you are in show As I continue on into my next endeavor of assistant directing business? Okay, so that might be cheesy but it’s true. Knee deep in multiple upcoming productions at RLT, I Beauty and the Beast Jr. with Mandy Maloney, I can only hope to continue to spread this knowledge to others and to often forget that I am still the “new guy” here and only continue learning. Community Theatre has changed me. I just discovered this marvelous building I call home seven wish everyone could experience theatre in such a family months ago. The people at the Desoto Theatre have welcomed me with open arms and have continued to open based community like I have in Rome. Thank you Romans for inviting me in, I hope to keep you the door to more and more opportunities for me. I came posted on my crusade into the world of RLT, and can only into the Theatre in February riddled with nerves and trembling at the thought of going up in front of one hundred hope I keep making you proud. Seven months. Only seven strangers and auditioning, then this past weekend I stage- months have passed, I can only imagine and shiver in “antici………………..PATION” at what you still have in store managed my first show for The Adventures of Tom for me. « Sawyer. I am no longer that nervous kid who came in to auditions hiding my eyes from the casting committee - I am now the one helping others calm their nerves and am becoming more involved on and off stage.
with dalton urda
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BACKSTAGE PASS AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2014
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AND THE ROMAN AWARD GOES TO‌
to
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Chuck Morris
Greg Asbury
Becky Magruder, Tiff Magruder
Beckie Gurley
Best Light Design
Best Sound Design
Best Set Design
Best Hair/Makeup Design
Mandy Maloney
Suzanne Clonts
Liz Suffill
Zac Mitchell
Best Costume Design
Best Stage Manager
Best Young Female Showstopper
Best Young Male Showstopper
Gary Jones III
Natalee Castro
Ryan Acree
Alex McDermott
Best Young Supporting Actor
Best Young Lead Actress
Best Young Lead Actor
Best Teen Male Showstopper
Abigail Childers
Nick Ehmann
Elizabeth Clonts
Alex McDermott
Best Teen Female Showstopper
Best Teen Supporting Actor
Best Teen Supporting Actress
Best Teen Lead Actor
ROME LITTLE THEATRE/HISTORIC DESOTO THEATRE FOUNDATION
Marie Kindred
Chris Parker
Donna Riordan
Best Adult Female Showstopper
Best Adult Male Showstopper
Best Adult Supporting Actress
Chris Parker
Susanna Brown
Virginia M McChesney
Neal Brackett
Best Adult Supporting Actor
Best Adult Lead Actress
Best Director
Best Producer
Best Musical
CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL!
Bre Lieberman Best Teen Lead Actress
Best Play, Best Overall Show Not Pictured: Hayley Arthur, for Best Young Supporting Actress for James Swendsen, Best Lead 2014 Actor, BACKSTAGE PASS AUGUST/SEPTEMBER
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H
ello! It’s Jordan Poe here again. For those of you who don’t know me, I’m 9 years old, and I love acting. I started acting at Rome Little Theatre when I was 6 years old. I also love to write, and I was given this amazing opportunity to write about what’s going on with the Rome Little Theatre Jr, which is quite a lot. RLT Jr debuted its first musical, The Little Mermaid Jr, this past April, and for this article I chose to interview Chef Louis, aka Zac Mitchell. JP-“How old were you when you started acting?” ZM-“10” JP-“What was the first play you acted in?” ZM-“Charlotte’s Web” JP-“What advice would you give to other kids who want to try acting?” ZM-“If you love to act, then do it!” JP-“You won a Roman Award this summer. What was that like?”
ZM-“It felt unreal, and I felt honored.” JP-“What is your most favorite play or musical that you’ve ever acted in?” ZM-“I really don’t have one. Whichever play I’m in at the time is my favorite.” JP-“What are some of the things that you do to help you with acting?” ZM-“I attend acting camps, do a lot of plays, and I attend RLT acting workshops.” JP-“What did you like most about the RLT camps?” ZM-“Meeting new people and the Improv classes.” You can see Zac in his latest role as Judge Thatcher in RLT Jr’s second production, The Adventures of Tom Sawyer, August 22 – August 31, 2014. Check back with me next time to learn more about another RLT Jr actor. «
WELCOME TO RLT’S NEW BOARD MEMBERS
THANK YOU TO EXITING MEMBERS FOR THEIR VALUED SERVICE
Tracy Hellriegel, VP of Membership Matt Shoemaker, Treasurer Chris Davidson, Member at Large
John Barnett, VP of Communication Carol Murchland, VP of Membership Wayne Jones, Treasurer
Announcing Show and Audition Dates for the Rome Little Theatre 2015-2016 Season Drinking Habits August 21 – August 30, 2015 Auditions: June 1, 2, 3, 2015
Noises Off April 1 – April 10, 2016 Auditions: December 7, 8, 9, 2015
Addams Family the Musical October 23 – November 1, 2015 Auditions: July 20, 21, 22, 2015
Second Samuel June 3 – June 12, 2016 Auditions: February 1, 2, 3, 2016
White Christmas the Musical December 4 - December 13, 2015 School Shows: December 8, 9, 2015 Auditions: August 24, 25, 26, 2015
RLT 2015-2016 Extra-Season Schedule (Not included in the Subscription fees)
The Secret Garden January 29 – February 7, 2016 School Shows: February 2, 3, 2016 Auditions: October 26, 27, 28, 2015
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We are now accepting applications for Producers and Directors for the 2015-2016 season. Deadline is January 31, 2015. We are also accepting suggestions for the 2016-2017 Reading Committee. This year, you may also apply to direct the show you are submitting. Deadline is September 30, 2014.
RLT Junior Aladdin, Jr July 17 – July 26, 2015 Auditions: April 18, 19, 20, 2015 RLT Young Actor’s Summer Workshop TBD
Please go to romelittletheatre.com to submit all applications online.
ROME LITTLE THEATRE/HISTORIC DESOTO THEATRE FOUNDATION
Thank you to our RLT Members and Contributors Marlene Millard Chuck Morris B & Megan Keating ED Don Rusaw
Tracy Hellriegel
VP of Membership CHARTER MEMBERS Ann Alderman Bob Ames Florence Brock Mary Ann Brock Bill Campbell Lila Campbell Jean Norton Davis Jack Donovan Barbara Austin Doss Teats Denney Edwards Charlotte Elliott Gordon Elliott Mr & Mrs Harold Gassman Robert Gill Elizabeth Harbin John Henderson Jackie Sieving Hight Ivan Hoge Ben Maulsby James McClain Glen McCullough Bob McEwan Don McLaughlin Fran McSpadden Grady McSpadden June Noble Kiki Petropole Penelope Ramey Jody Selman Forrest Shropshire Jim Snow Bill Strain Virginia Summer June Tilly Gene Toulouza Ruth Troutman Ernestine West John Williams Sara Wright Carlton Wright HONORARY LIFETIME MEMBERS Wain Bates Paul Beyer Sandy Davis Mary Doster Keith & Betty Finley Norris & Cornelia Gamble Paul Griffin Jeanne Holt Joel & Joan Jones Wayne & Angela Jones Gordon & Peggy Leiter Becky & Tiff Magruder B Virginia M McChesney
PLATINUM ($1500 & up) Dr Jim Curry Heyman Family Foundation in memory of Jo Heyman Wesley Walraven & Brian Moore GOLD ($750 – $1499) Gordon & Peggy Leiter Dr & Mrs Ralph Helser BRONZE ($500 – $749) Barbara & Jim Austin Lyons Heyman in memory of Jo Heyman STAR ($250 – $499) Chris & Jason Davidson Sylvia & Randy Eidson Mary & Tommy Ortwein Joel & Lynn Todino Shirl Willis ROMAN ($100 – $249) Wendell Barnes, Jr Paul & Shari Culotta Sandy Davis Susan Edwards Suzanne Fischer & Savannah Dempsey Joel & Jean Fletcher Norris & Cornelia Gamble Leo & Carol Grajzar Diane & Bannester Harbin, Jr Tracy Hellriegel Virginia M McChesney Raymond & Wanda Murphy & Gwenette Powell Bill Knight Martha Tapia Connie Vick FRIEND (Up to $99) Kathy Barton Barb Beninato Leandro Castro Kay Chambers Carol Greissinger Ryan Lindsey Pam Shoemaker Monica Spillman SEASON TICKET HOLDERS Lisa & Ryan Acree Jim & Barbara Austin Edith Baker Charlotte Ball Wendell Barnes, Jr Anna, John, Kay Barnett & Nash Williams Wain & Brenda Bates Barbara Beninato Paul Beyer
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Jim Bowers Paula & Jim Bowers, Katie & Landen Loyd Karen & Ernie Bowling Annette Bowling Gene, Glenn & Melissa Bowman Jim Brackett & Jimmie Ann Brackett Chase,Evan, Isaac, Kim & Neal Brackett Vickie Brown Susanna Brown Janice Brown Glenn & Aleen Brumbelow Sylvia, Jonathan, Sr. & Jonathan, Jr. Caruvana Betty & Tom Carver Ann Casto Barry, Abigail & Tammy Childers Jonathan Chisolm Shelby & Jim Christie Rachael Clark Diane & Chris Cole Michael & Kathleen Colvin Patricia Cromer Paul & Shari Culotta Jim Curry Hilda Dailey Christina, Anna & Tess Davidson Sandy Davis Drs. D'Ann Downey & William R Warley Sylvia & Randy Eidson Russell Evans Lloyd & Janet Farr Keith & Betty Finley Joel & Jean Fletcher Katia Pesce, Luca & Ricky Frisiani Joanne Gaba Norris & Cornelia Gamble Ruth Gardner Allison Garner John & Vickie Goodrich Carol & Leo Grajzar Jessica & Zach Green Paul Griffin Ellie & Tom Hamby Lee Hamby Diane & Bannester Harbin, Jr Patricia C Harrison Jim & Tracy Hellriegel Dr & Mrs Ralph Helser Anne & James Henry Michael S Hillman Jeanne Holt Gayle Hopkins Hilde Hudson Jim Hunter Louise Jackson Wayne & Angela Jones Joel & Joan Jones Megan Keating & Chuck Morris Marie Kindred Mary S Kirby Fran Kirtland Joan Ledbetter Gordon & Peggy Leiter
Chad A Lovett Kevin LuAllen Sarah Maddox Tiff & Becky Magruder Claire & Joseph Mangraviti William McAfee Brenda & Steve McChargue Virginia M McChesney Pete & Jane McDonald Louise Michielsen Marlene Millard Nellie Milton Roy, Suzette, Alex & Zac Mitchell Teresa, Kevin & Lizzy Morang Veronica, Vincent Moreno & Jordan Poe Robert Moulard Judith, Bret & Drew Mulcay Ray, Wanda Murphy & Gwenette Powell Mary, Michael & Gloria Murray Tim , Jennifer, Jd, Luke & Jake Naddy Carol Osborn, Chase Vaughn & Emily Evans Ladonna Padgett Ivey, Christopher & Olivia Parker Stephen & Connie Patrick Rebecca & John Pillsbury David & Catherine Price Cassidy Rayburn Martin & Madeleine Rhiner Donna Riordan Leigh & Sandy *Grandy* Robinson, Liz Suffill Chip, Kathy, Cannon & Mallory Rogers Don Rusaw Don & Gerry Schlitz Lisa Matt & Pam Shoemaker Sam Smith Jean Soules William D Sparks Cindy Stewart Amanda & James Swendsen Martha Tapia Cheryl Terry Joel & Lynn Todino Dalton & Chris Urda Eric Vaughn & Jennifer Vaughn Sharon Vaughn Mary Walker Linda Walraven Jeff, Jenny & Ryan Ward Bill, Jenny & Jack Wear Jane Wentworth Valerie Wester Nicole & Todd Williams Keith, Naomi & Abbey Williams Shirl Willis Melba Mitchell Wood Dee & Brad Wrisley
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update A Big Thank You to our Annual Membership Fund Contributors MEDALLION Mr. and Mrs. Gordon Leiter Evie McNiece BRICKS & MORTAR Suzy and Pete Gilbert Steve and Ceci Klasson Cheryl Yancey Heritage First Bank Darlington School Fine Arts Dept. FOUNDATION J. Paul Ferguson Rahul and Ritu Garg Lyons J. Heyman Peter & Emily Hjort Charles and Christa Jackson Michelle & Hector Picon River City Bank Studio Siri GROUND BREAKER Pat and Coleen Adams Gena and Clinton Agnew
Fran and Rick Buice Randy & Sandy Davis Sylvia and Randy Eidson John and Ali Freeman Leo and Carol Grajzar Dr. and Mrs. J. Daniel Hanks, Jr Diane and Banny Harbin Villa Hizer Nancy and David Hunter Cline and Jessica Jackson Mary & John Kirkland Joe and Claire Mangraviti Penney Mitchell Melanie Morris Mary & Tommy Ortwein Dr. and Mrs. Cyrus Parsa David and Kimberly Prusakowski Dr. and Mrs. Jim Santoro Mr. and Mrs. Dean Saville, Jr. Beth Summer Jose Tan/Caroline Yaphockun Mr. and Mrs. Fred Taylor Joel & Lynn Todino Hal and Mimi Richards
Venue Dog CONCERT SERIES presents
Bennie Anderson and the Drifters Saturday, September 20, 2014 @8:30pm Patron’s Party 6:00-8:30pm (Gala reception with meet and greet; auction. Reserved seating area during concert)
Come celebrate This Magic Moment at the DeSoto! The classic “Doo Wop” group, The Drifters, will take you on a walk down memory lane with songs such as Under the Boardwalk, There Goes my Baby and Save the Last Dance for Me. Concert - $20 General Admission Patron's Party - $75 per person To order tickets, please go to desototheatre.com. Page 10
ROME LITTLE THEATRE/HISTORIC DESOTO THEATRE FOUNDATION
INSCRIPTIONS FOR SEAT PLATES for the NAME A SEAT CAMPAIGN The first batch of donor plates from the Name A Seat Campaign are now on the new seats. There's still time to name one for yourself, in honor or memory of someone, or as a corporation or nonprofit group's contribution to the restoration of the theatre. For information or to make a donation, please visit desototheatre.com Villa S. Hizer Donated by Villa Hizer In Memory of The Sulzbacher Family Donated by Villa Hizer A Friend Donated by Anonymous A Friend Donated by Anonymous In Honor of Paul Cooper Griffin Donated by Joe & Marti Walstad In Honor of Tommy Lam Donated by Molly & Dee Yancey Dr. & Mrs. Chris Kligora Donated by Dr. & Mrs. Chris Kligora Suzanne T. Clonts Donated by David & Suzanne Clonts David G. Clonts Donated by David & Suzanne Clonts In Memory of Mary Hay Eidson By The Eidson Family Donated by Sylvia & Randy Eidson Mary & Urs Maire Donated by Mary & Urs Maire Dr. & Mrs. Ralph Helser Donated by Dr. & Mrs. Ralph Helser Dr. & Mrs. Ralph Helser Donated by Dr. & Mrs. Ralph Helser Mr. & Mrs. Ralph Benjamin Burt Donated by Fran & Harris Bagley The Hubbard Family Donated by The Hubbard Family The Hubbard Family Donated by The Hubbard Family In Honor of Barbara W. Austin Donated by Barbara & Jim Austin Contributed by Jim Austin, Jr. Donated by Barbara & Jim Austin Anna Sargent Miller Donated by Rick & Ruthann Sargent Chris Miller Donated by Rick & Ruthann Sargent Jenny Sargent Donated by Rick & Ruthann Sargent Will Sargent Donated by Rick & Ruthann Sargent Ruthann Sargent Donated by Rick & Ruthann Sargent Rick Sargent Donated by Rick & Ruthann Sargent Mark Cochran, Architect, HDTF Donated by Mark & Michelle Cochran Michelle Cochran Donated by Mark & Michelle Cochran Rome International Film Festival Donated by Rome International Film Festival Rome International Film Festival Donated by Rome International Film Festival Wes Walraven Love, Cranes & Freemans Donated by Brenda & Jim Crane, Ali & John Freeman In Memory of Wesley C. Walraven, Sr. Donated by Wes Walraven & Brian Moore Linda Walraven Donated by Wes Walraven & Brian Moore Wes Walraven & Brian Moore Donated by Wes Walraven & Brian Moore Wes Walraven & Brian Moore Donated by Wes Walraven & Brian Moore Georgia Power Company Donated by Georgia Power Company
BACKSTAGE PASS AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2014
In Memory of Elizabeth Kelley Watters Donated by J.T. & Megan Watters In Memory of Elizabeth Kelley Watters Donated by J.T. & Megan Watters Jeffrey & Shelly Peller Donated by Jeffrey & Shelly Peller Jeffrey & Shelly Peller Donated by Jeffrey & Shelly Peller Blanca & Raúl González Donated by Blanca & Raúl González Dr. Martha L. Tapia Donated by Dr. Martha L. Tapia In Memory of Dr. Felix C. Nora, Jr. Donated by Belen Nora Virginia McChesney Donated by Virginia McChesney Pat & Colleen Adams Donated by Pat & Colleen Adams Pat & Colleen Adams Donated by Pat & Colleen Adams Don & Judy Barcik Donated by Don & Judy Barcik Don & Judy Barcik Donated by Don & Judy Barcik Bill Sparks Donated by Bill & Betty Sparks Betty Sparks Donated by Bill & Betty Sparks FPC Medical Alliance 2013-2014 Donated by Floyd-Polk-Chattooga Medical Alliance Elizabeth Warner Harbin Donated by Her Family In Memory of Angelique “Kiki” Petropole Donated by Wright and Kelly Ledbetter In Memory of Angelique “Kiki” Petropole Donated by Wright and Kelly Ledbetter The Santoro Family Donated by The Santoro Family The Santoro Family Donated by The Santoro Family The Santoro Family Donated by The Santoro Family The Santoro Family Donated by The Santoro Family In Honor of Betsy Goldin Donated by The Andrew Berry Family In Honor of Eleanor Goldin Donated by The Andrew Berry Family Will Goldin Donated by Nancy & George Goldin John Goldin Donated by Nancy & George Goldin Earl Dean Saville, Jr. Donated by Ansley & Dean Saville Ansley Briley Saville Donated by Ansley & Dean Saville Nell Ansley Briley Donated by Ansley & Dean Saville Albert Cecil Briley, Jr. Donated by Ansley & Dean Saville Barbara Brown Briley Donated by Ansley & Dean Saville In Memory of Debby Brown Donated by Mary & Tommy Ortwein In Loving Memory of Mary C. Doherty Birthday Gift for Mary Ortwein Donated by Tommy Ortwein, Kathy & Kraig Ingalsbee, Mary Ann & Keith Long
In Memory of Bruce & Freda Hamler Donated by Sue Lee In Memory of Sherrie Bacon Donated by Charles Griffin Conner In Memory of Linda Hom Donated by Dr &Mrs William H Conner In Honor of Charles Griffin Conner Donated by Dr &Mrs William H Conner Mr. & Mrs. Christopher R. Jackson Donated by Mr. & Mrs. Christopher R. Jackson Jackson & Cline Families RLT & HDTF Since 1989 Donated by Mr. & Mrs. Christopher R. Jackson The Safigan Family Donated by Steve & Jamie Safigan The Safigan Family Donated by Steve & Jamie Safigan In Honor of Christa Jackson Donated by Janet Byington The McElhone Family Donated by P.J. & Stephanie McElhone The Picón Family Donated by Héctor & Michelle Picón The Picón Family Donated by Héctor & Michelle Picón Mike & Margaret Crego Donated by Mike & Margaret Crego Mike & Margaret Crego Donated by Mike & Margaret Crego Susan Gilbert Harvey Donated by Susan & David Harvey David Harvey Donated by Susan & David Harvey Helen Harbin Keaten Donated by Jim & Helen Keaten Jim Keaten Donated by Jim & Helen Keaten GE Foundation Peggy & Gordon Leiter Matching Gift by GE Foundation GE Foundation Peggy & Gordon Leiter Matching Gift by GE Foundation Peggy & Gordon Leiter Donated by Peggy & Gordon Leiter Peggy & Gordon Leiter Donated by Peggy & Gordon Leiter Cathy & Jim Powell Donated by Jim and Cathy Powell Melissa Powell Donated by Jim and Cathy Powell In Memory of Jason Glen Fordham Donated by Jim Curry A Gift From Jim Curry Donated by Jim Curry In Memory of Rebecca B. Russell Donated by Jim Curry In Memory of Dean Durbrow & Margrit Marks Donated by R. Michael Keating Chuck Morris & Megan Keating Donated by Meagan Keating Chuck Morris & Megan Keating Donated by Chuck Morris Joni & Tom Wannamaker Donated by Joni & Tom Wannamaker Carol Murchland Donated by Hilltop Rentals Paul Pierce Donated by Paul Pierce Dr. John Barnett & Mrs. Kay Barnett Donated by Dr. & Mrs. John Barnett
Page 11
R OME L ITTLE T HEATRE P.O. Box 1063 Rome, GA 30162-1063 www.romelittletheatre.com rltoffice@bellsouth.net 706-295-7171
Pass
2014-2015 SEASON & Extra-Season Shows
THE MUSICAL
July 11– July 20, 2014
Aug 22 – Aug 31, 2014
Oct 24 – Nov 2, 2014
Tuesday – Friday 11 AM – 4 PM and during show times
THE NUTCRACKER
romelittletheatre.com
Nov 21 & 22, 2014 Rome City Auditorium
MISSION STATEMENT The purpose of this organization is to present amateur theatrical productions, encourage interest in drama, and contribute to the cultural and educational life of the community. The Rome Little Theatre, Inc. is an active supporter of the arts in Rome and Floyd County.«
AUDITIONS Dec 5 – Dec 14, 2014
Monday, September 1 @ 6 pm Tuesday, September 2 @ 6 pm
Jan 30 – Feb 8, 2015
Mar 20 – Mar 29, 2015
B LE
A C HE R
BUMS
May 29 – June 7, 2015
Disney’s
July 17 – July 26, 2015 romelittletheatre.com Page 12
Monday, August 25 @ 6 pm Tuesday, August 26 @ 6 pm Call backs: Wednesday, August 27 @ 6 pm
Call backs: Wednesday, September 3 at 6 pm
August 27 & 28, 2014
Auditions are open to those aged 6 to 18
DANCERS: Wednesday, August 27, registration begins at 4:30pm. ACTORS: Thursday, August 28, registration begins at 5:30pm.
DeSoto Theatre
Rome City Auditorium, 601 Broad Street, Rome, GA
Auditions are open to singers who are between the ages of 7 and 100+. Songs for the audition will be selected by the audition committee and provided at the time of the auditions. Singing numbers in the show will be traditional and contemporary Christmas songs including solos, trios, quartets, small groups and choirs.
Please go to romelittletheatre.com for more info and to safely and easily submit your audition registration form online. ROME LITTLE THEATRE/HISTORIC DESOTO THEATRE FOUNDATION