Theater in the Now

Name: Hannah Sloat

Hometown: Durham, New Hampshire

Education: AMDA's studio program

Select Credits: Broadway's War Horse at LCT, The Glory of Living (I just received and NYIT Award nomination for Actress in a Lead Role), Venus in Fur (NC Stage Co.)

Why theater?: Because it gives so much to the audience and the performer and it's made anew every night. It lives and dies in two hours but it can, possibly, be captured in your memory forever.

Who do you play in Dragon’s Breath?: I play Laura, a huge fan of the "Dragon's Breath" books.

Tell us about Dragon’s Breath:Dragon's Breath is a modern fable about wishing big and not asking questions- and the resulting consequences of that. It's about literalism and dragons. And it's a comedy!

What is it like being a part of Dragon’s Breath?: It's been great to have our playwright in the room. Being able to ask questions about the text and get real time answers in rehearsal was something I've never experienced, and it helped us to get to the bigger questions more quickly- which was invaluable given the break-neck speed of Fringe.

What kind of theater speaks to you? What or who inspires you as an artist?: I'm finding myself inspired more and more by the woman I meet that are a few years ahead of me in the business. The way they keep all the plates spinning while zeroing in on what they really love.

Any roles you’re dying to play?: Juliet, Joan of Arc, Peter Pan.

What’s your favorite showtune?: Today I'll say... "A Spoonful of Sugar" (helps the medicine go down).

Who would play you in a movie about yourself and what would it be called?: An unknown redheaded youngster in "Orphan Hannah", about an eight year old secretly thinking she was adopted because both her parents have brown hair and every redhead she sees on film is an orphan. (Think about this: Annie, Anne of Green Gables, Madeliene, and Ariel and Pippy Longstocking both lost their mothers- I also connected strongly with Peter Pan as a kid)

What show have you recommended to your friends?: It's the final weekend of Much Ado at Smith Street Stage and it's delightful!

What’s the most played song on your iTunes?: Maybe "Beautiful Child" by Rufus Wainwright. It's made it into several playlists.

What’s your biggest guilty pleasure?: Reese's Pieces?

What’s up next?: That is the question!

Name: Madeline Hickman

Hometown: Melbourne, FL

Education: BA in Theatre and BA in Mass Communication Studies from FLORIDA STATE (Go Noles!)

Who do you play in Pageant Tales and Beauty Fails?: Melanie, Miss Texas

Describe your character in three words: Confident, Loud, Texan

Tell us about Pageant Tales and Beauty Fails: Hilarious show about The America's Goddess Pageant, with every American stereotype represented and hopefully offended

Describe Pageant Tales and Beauty Fails in three words: Funny, Glamorous, Big

What beauty pageant would you win?: Queen of Hiding from my Roommates then Jumping Out and Scaring Them.

What pageant portion are you most likely to dominate?: The part where you stay in a hotel with continental breakfast

Which company member is most likely to lie, cheat, or steal their way to glory?: No one! We're a bunch of sweethearts

Most likely to commit a beauty fail?: Probably me

Most likely to be involved in a scandal?: Jay

Most likely to win Miss Congeniality?: Sophie

Most likely to be a future stage parent?: Victoria

Most likely to host a beauty pageant?: Matthew

Most likely to have a showmance: Sam and Brian, they're way too good together

Who's the most offensive?: Michael, look at this play he wrote!

Most ruthless?: No one!

Best pageant cry?: Brian, I honestly can't look at him pageant cry because it makes me crack up

Sash, bouquet, or tiara?: Melanie says Tiara, Madeline says Bouquet

What is your favorite moment of Pageant Tales and Beauty Fails?: I change my mind at every rehearsal about this, because everyone is constantly coming up with new ways to make us all laugh

What is the most rewarding part about being a member of Pageant Tales and Beauty Fails?: The team! I have nothing but lovely things to say about this group of people and their talents.

Why should we come see Pageant Tales and Beauty Fails?: Because Melanie will shoot you if you don't.

For more on Pageant Tales and Beauty Fails visit us on Facebook at facebook.com/pageanttalesandbeautyfails. For tickets, visit Smart Tix.

The Complete Works franchise has made a name for their abridged retellings of everything from Shakespeare to the history of sports. So when others try to tackle this idea you have to be prepared to do it better. In The Internet: A Complete History (Abridged), writers Kristyn Pomranz and Katherine Steinberg attempt to inform and entertain while borrowing the perfect concept.
While we all use the Internet, very few of us actually know anything about it. Well besides that it was "invented" by Al Gore. And who better to teach the history of the World Wide Web than Gore himself! With the aid of two youngsters and a begrudging "audience member" we learn about the Internet. Unfortunately for Pomranz and Steinberg, the Internet is just not funny. With projections to explain the jokes and way too much jargon for the audience to handle, The Internet is a prolonged set up that tried to be something else. The Internet is funny when it's a nostalgia trip down 90s memory lane but it takes about as long as connecting to dial up AOL for the funny to come. When engaging in fact spewing, the play falls flat. Had the entire play been bits and sketches like the Reduced Shakespeare’s Abridged shows, perhaps The Internet could have worked.

Benjamin Drew Thompson tackles the role of Al Gore in a unique way. His Gore borders between impersonation and it's own identity. He nails the accent but lacks the pacing other Gore impersonators use. You know like Darrell Hammond. Lockbox anyone? Callie Rose Hanau and Timothy Thompson as Gore’s sidekicks in story have their moments, with Thompson receiving more of the meaty material to play with. As Steve the audience member turned insider, Adam Wennick is lost.
Director Paul Morris struggles to salvage any comedy from within. Morris keeps the action fast paced but with so little to work with, the play becomes a mishmash of too much. And perhaps that’s the point. A parallel to the Internet containing so much it’s too much to handle. The costumes Matt Russoniello works for Hanau’s Ingrid and Thompson’s Andrew, paying homage to the Internet. However putting Al Gore in Red Converse was a confusing choice. Russoniello was also in charge of props. For a play about the Internet and technology, having zero real pieces of technology was a massive disservice. Sure, the actors tossed the “computers” around on stage haphazardly but the fact that the prop looked like a prop and not an actual computer was disheartening.
Comedy is hard. Originality is hard. Watching a comedy fall flat is hard. The Internet: A Complete History (Abridged) had all the makings of excellence but flopped in execution. If you were really curious, it may have been easier to learn the history of the Internet on the Internet.

Coming home as an adult may not always be easy. Especially if the circumstances surrounding your return are not all that pretty. In Leah in Vegas, Leah is forced to return to the place she tried so hard to escape where she’s forced to reunite with a damaged mother and the newfound confident former best friend.

In Kara Ayn Napolitano’s daring script, Leah, a twenty-nine year old woman, is brought back to the house she grew up in to live with her mother as stipulation for her release from jail. Only a day into her stay, Leah grows stir crazy looking for a way out to travel to see her daughter in Los Angeles. Leah convinces her childhood best friend to take a trip to Las Vegas as cover-up to head to Los Angeles. Along the way we learn about Leah's history and her desire for escape and reunion. Napolitano’s script is a very difficult overall theme to present on stage. Fortunately it's written specifically. Napolitano slowly reveals Leah's secret of kissing a minor, though it's believed that was the extent, but as soon as it's subtly figured out, your opinion on the character quickly shifts. It's not until the end do we discover why Leah did what she did, but regardless it may be too late for audience redemption. Leah is a strong character and her dark secret is almost disappointing. She becomes a despicable character. Yes, the age difference between the two characters is extreme and what we see makes it appear mutual, but regardless, it's difficult and upsetting to process. Many of the characters discuss the rumors and articles about Leah's story but the law speaks louder than her truths.
Jenna D’Angelo as Leah is brimming with passion in her performance. Her likeability and presence on stage allows Leah to be such a strong character. D’Angelo gives an incredible and strong performance despite your opinions on the character. Leslie Marseglia as Brenda brings out a loveabley neurotic performance as the former best friend. Marseglia serves as the much needed comic relief. Victoria Bundonis plays mother Mary Anne to an extreme. The relationship between mother and daughter is quite interesting as they both have different approaches to the world of the play. Their lack of chemistry works to an extent but coming from two different places hurts their overall arc together.
Kristin Skye Hoffman does a great job establishing a clear world and guiding her ensemble through it. Hoffman has an incredible design team of Tyler M. Perry with lights and set and Tamara Geisler and Phoebe Halkowich tag teaming with costumes. They bring added spark of life to the dreary atmosphere.
Leah in Vegas is a strong script with a strong lead actress. The circumstances within the play are a hard topic to handle but Kara Ayn Napolitano does it with good intention.

Name: Alexis Robbins

Hometown: Jacksonville, FL

Education: BFA Boston University, The Barrow School

Who do you play in Pageant Tales and Beauty Fails?: Marjorie Davis, Pageant Coordinator

Describe your character in three words: Cheerful, idealistic, nuts

Tell us about Pageant Tales and Beauty Fails: A delightful collections of characters attack an innocent FL pageant. Chaos ensues.

Describe Pageant Tales and Beauty Fails in three words: Hilarious, female-centric, fearless

What beauty pageant would you win?: Miss Cartoon and/or Dr. Seuss Character Lookalike

What pageant portion are you most likely to dominate?: Q&A! Maybe... sorta... I mean, I guess. I don't know. These questions are hard.

Which company member is most likely to lie, cheat, or steal their way to glory?: Madeline... because she handed in her bio first

Most likely to commit a beauty fail?: Me

Most likely to be involved in a scandal?: Matthew

Most likely to win Miss Congeniality?: Sophie

Most likely to be a future stage parent?: Sarah

Most likely to host a beauty pageant?: Jay... seriously, he'd be really good at it

Most likely to have a showmance: Matthew?

Who's the most offensive?: Character? Probably me. Cast member? Maybe me.

Most ruthless?: Kate... because she's the most off book

Best pageant cry?: Julia

Sash, bouquet, or tiara?: Tiara, bitch! Bling!

What is your favorite moment of Pageant Tales and Beauty Fails?:"Oh shit, I killed her." Beautifully executed by Matthew, complete with gazelle leaps.

What is the most rewarding part about being a member of Pageant Tales and Beauty Fails?: Working with incredibly talented, funny, hardworking people in a professional environment... The script is great and the characters are very very well cast.

Why should we come see Pageant Tales and Beauty Fails?: Because if you don't I know I few beauty queens who will cut a bitch.

For more on Pageant Tales and Beauty Fails, visit facebook.com/pageanttalesandbeautyfails. For tickets, visit Smart Tix.

Sexting is an epidemic. In the digital age, sending naughty pictures is almost common practice. And just as fast as you send that picture, that same picture can be circulated faster than you can say selfie. And just like that, a scandal unfolds. In The Text of Sex, an innocent picture sent to one person sets off a firestorm of scandal and drama.

Written by Michele Aldin Kushner, The Text of Sex follows Delilah, a sixteen year old girl, who sends a boob shot to her new male companion after her best friend Jenna convinces her to. The picture then ends up circulating prompting a criminal investigation and Delilah being charged with child pornography as an adult. The Text of Sex is not an original story nor do we learn anything new from this play. Sexting scandals happen all over the country from students to politicians to celebrities. What The Text of Sex does set out to do is humanize the parties involved. Aldin Kushner portrays her high school characters as insanely naive and unaware of the consequences. In this day and age, it's almost unbelievable. Especially for kids living in New York City. On top of the main plot line, there is an unnecessary parental subplot regarding their marriage and unfaithfulness. This subplot detracts from the main action, pulling more focus than it should have.
With a pretty mediocre script, the ensemble had very little to work with. As Dock and Bette respectively, Tom O'Keefe and Patricia Randell fit the part of parents. When it came to the other part of the play, both O'Keefe and Randell entered a new world. Julienne Jones as Delilah did a fine job as the innocently naive fire starter. AC Horton brought insanity to the jealous friend Jenna. Despite what the script said, I'm still convinced she was behind the circulation. Mason O'Sullivan played Jason quite subtly bordering the line of cool and uncool.
Director Bruce "Master B" Baek brought very little to the stage to portray the playwright's objective as printed in the program. The character arcs for Jason and Jenna specifically took bizarre turns and Baek's direction did not help in clarifying their later scenes. In the world of sound, designer Regan Riggs Hunte overused the song "Moth" by BETH. The song is listed in the program and is sublimely bashed into your brains as it plays on loop during preshow and in nearly every single transition. If music is used to evoke a mood going into or coming out of a scene, using the same intro to the song did nothing but make some people in the audience notice and laugh that the song was playing again.
Despite the times, The Text of Sex feels like a dated play. The shock value if the situation is gone and nothing new is brought to light. Despite the single act, the play is long with a lot of fat to be trimmed.

Name: Nathan Wellman

Hometown: Ashland, KY

Education: I studied in Kentucky at a great little theatre program in Morehead State University.

Favorite Credits: I played Michael in Naomi Iizuka’s Language of Angels in undergrad. It was one of those plays where you really got to just spread those little actor wings and go crazy for a solid thirty minute scene. I’ve never felt closer to a cast than that show. Writing-wise, I got to write a little skit for this Haitian women’s conference recently. There is no better audience than a Haitian audience, and I’ll never be able to adequately describe watching 800 women screaming with laughter at every goofy little joke. Definitely one of those Ah, THIS is why I do this moments.

Why theater?: Because it’s magic.

Tell us about Ryan is Lost: It’s a show about brother and sister Frank and Avis, who have lost their nephew in the middle of a busy mall. As they wait at the predesignated meeting spot, old bickerings and hurts come to the surface and we quickly realize that they’re just as lost as Ryan is. Perhaps we all are.

What inspired you to write Ryan is Lost?: I really wanted to write a story about siblings, because I feel like you can be the worst version of yourself around your sibling and they’re still always there. So I thought I could use the goofy pettiness of that relationship to find a funny way to explore the depths of human selfishness.

What kind of theater speaks to you? What or who inspires you as an artist?: I love the smaller, more intimate stuff. The wonders I’ve seen in tiny little 99 seat theatres… I love watching imagination thrive past budget restraints.

If you could work with anyone you’ve yet to work with, who would it be?: Last year, I would’ve said Phillip Seymour Hoffman in a second. That one hurt pretty bad. I guess I’d probably go with Joaquin Phoenix. Such a fearless performer.

What show have you recommended to your friends?: Absolutely Filthy and King of Kong. POWERHOUSE shows.

Who would play you in a movie about yourself and what would it be called?: "Bad Posture" starring Jason Bateman

What’s your biggest guilty pleasure?: I kind of love Miley Cyrus’s music videos. Don’t tell anybody, okay?

What’s the most played song on your iTunes?: Right now it’d be “Blood on the Leaves” by Kanye West. One of the weirdest songs I’ve heard in a long time, and I can’t get enough of it.

If you weren’t working in theater, you would be _____?: Financially stable, haha

What’s up next?: After this show, it’ll be back to the whirlwind of producing my own web series, putting up serialized plays, workshopping full length plays, promoting my ebook "The Scarecrow", auditions, and all of the other Los Angeles hustling that keeps my head spinning in a delicious way.

For more on Ryan is Lost, visit https://twitter.com/RyanisLostNYC

Name: Gene Fisch, Jr.

Hometown: Monroe, CT.

Education: Coursework at M.I.T., Harvard, SUNY, and Adelphi

Favorite Credits: Nuclear Engineering (Ha). Theatre wise, I wrote a play anonymously so as to get a true sense of what the audience felt during and after the performance. When Once Upon a Moment performed, it was one of the most rewarding experiences I've ever enjoyed. Deuces was a terrific experience as well. The show depicted a bunch of experiences / inside jokes that were between an ex girlfriend and myself / was written within a 48 hour period of our relationship ending. We still laugh about it to this day; it turned into a solid piece of work.

Why theater?: When I am "me" what you see is what you get. There are no masks or diversions. Participating in theatre (on any level) allows your mind to exercise its creative side and experience life from a different perspective. You can rest and come back as a rejuvinated "you."

Tell us about New York New Works Theatre Festival: I'm very proud of this. Each year I create a "give back" project that I believe will help the community. So many of my friends enter festivals that cost tremendous amounts of money while not making good on the opportunities that the young writers hope for upon entering. Almost entirely self funded, we have aggregated a cadre of Broadway Producers and Emmy Award winning writers to review the work of our participants. When we factor in the wonderful space, the marketing (at our expense) for the individual authors, the nuances that we are undertaking to make this a terrific experience, we end up with an unbelievable event that we are quite proud of. This is a "genuine shot" as the panelists can have a material effect on the careers of these young writers.

What inspired you to create New York New Works Theatre Festival?: I wanted to create a one of a kind Festival that didn't exist. The financial position of the entrant does not matter; each participant is accepted on the merit of their writing. We've given the participants an opportunity to be seen by legitimate decision makers in the industry. Sometimes we just need a chance and that what this Festival offers. It's a pretty cool feeling knowing that you can provide such an impact to a young person.

What kind of theater speaks to you? What or who inspires you as an artist?: Anything that can evoke thinking that is "out of the box." Conformity stagnates our thought process and any type of catalyst that can bring about new ideas gets me going.

If you could work with anyone you’ve yet to work with, who would it be?: I would probably say someone in a high level of politics that can get things done. Resources (or lack thereof) can be a downfall and having partners that can navigate the process and be effective while doing so are invaluable to changing the way things have been done traditionally (and that's the only way we can all become both a better society and better people).

What show have you recommended to your friends?: Cabaret (the latest rendition)

Who would play you in a movie about yourself and what would it be called?: Gosh, I'm not sure. It would have to be someone who really enjoyed baked goods, though!

What’s your biggest guilty pleasure?: Lots and lots and lots of ice cream

What’s the most played song on your iTunes?: Probably something from the Queen repertoire

If you weren’t working in theater, you would be _____?: I typically take projects that attack something that is broken and then I try to rectify the situation. My latest project is with Alfred Mann of MannKind. With Michael Maher and Archana Sivadassen we are setting up international platforms to distribute medicine throughout the world to the areas that need it most.

What’s up next?: Lots and lots of ice cream! Well that and there's been some interest in a pilot that I put together one evening, "Last First Kiss". It was a "hobby" project and the concept has enjoyed some "beginner's luck" and we may be shooting with the help of a network in the next couple of weeks along with the Rock City Productions production company.

Every now and again you go in blindly seeing a show. Let the wind take you were it may. Before seeing Coffee and Biscuit I knew nothing about it besides there being puppets. As the play progressed and I figured out just exactly what I was watching, I had a newfound love for this piece. Coffee and Biscuit is a genius new telling of the Ibsen classic A Doll's House.

Set in the 1950s against a backdrop of Hoovers and Jell-O, Coffee and Biscuitfollows Nora Helmer on a journey through feminism and gender roles in a media-influenced society. Oh, and there are puppets. Coffee and Buscuit is a wildly innovative and spectacular exploration of Henrik Ibsen’s A Doll’s House through a thought-provoking lens and era. Written by Teresa Ann Virginia Bayer, Coffee and Biscuit turns the classic right on its head, analyzing the specific theme of women and presenting a gallant view. The characters from the source material have gotten a lovely update playing an integral part in Nora’s journey. The men of Nora’s world are played by puppets operated by women. The only man on stage is a well dressed man who serves as Nora’s puppet master. What Bayer does well is gives a fresh approach to an overdone story. By having an ensemble of strong women operate the male characters, the commentary of gender roles is even more present and stimulating.

Zoe Farmingdale gives a tour de force performance, leading the pack as Nora. Farmingdale brings an airy, innocent quality to the housewife. Bethany Nicole Taylor brings great character work to Betty, Nora’s best friend. Her balance between actress and puppeteer is seamless and unrecognizable. Mike Racioppa as the Man personifies the puppet master idea quite well. He’s presence is subtle yet impactful. Rounding out the ensemble were Melissa Diane Martin as Harold the husband, Cindy Kay as Carl the loaner, and Alexandra Gellner as Dr. Smith. They each brought variety as puppeteer and television ad.

Regardless of where you lean toward the moral of this piece, the approach by the entire team takes is remarkable. The manic world that Nora lives in is defined by a greyscale set designed stunningly by Douglas Clarke. Despite not having a working television for the performance, the production was near flawless. The costume design by Alexandra Rozansky was stunning, placing Nora in her grey world and the rest of the ladies in matching outfits of color. Christina Watanabe’s lights added an extra boost of color. Watanabe went above and beyond giving the ladies’ television moments the right feel. The only dramaturgical question that Coffee and Biscuit was whether the original music by Jay Spriggs correct. The music Spriggs brought was beautiful and worked well for the mood of the play but it was the only element of the show that was not in the same period. The true stars of the show were the puppets. Designed by PuppetFluff and Bayer, each character truly had it’s own unique identity.

Teresa Ann Virginia Bayer devised a world that worked wonders as an individual play as well as paying great respect to the source material. What Coffee and Biscuitdoes well is it opens up a conversation about the source material as well as the themes it presents. By having a clever device with the puppets, the theme is subtler.

Name: Matthew Menendez

Hometown: St. Louis, Missouri

Education: Associates in Dramatic Arts / Film and Television

Who do you play in Pageant Tales and Beauty Fails?: Terence

Describe your character in three words: Sassy, Classy, and Bold

Tell us about Pageant Tales and Beauty Fails: Pageant Tales and Beauty Fails is the stereotypical comedy you have always wanted to see. You take the best regions of the USA to poke fun at and a few gay jokes and you have a good time and a lot of laughs. On top of that you have it all taking place in a beauty pageant. That’s the cherry on top of “the very moist cake”.

Describe Pageant Tales and Beauty Fails in three words: Bawdy, Hilarious, and Ridiculous

What beauty pageant would you win?: Seeing as how I don’t have the face or genitalia for Miss America, I would say, is there a pageant for Miss Skinny ass?

What pageant portion are you most likely to dominate?: The Pageant portion I would dominate would have to be evening gown wear. I look great in a dress. It would be fitting up top with shimmer all over, and a slit up to my thigh.

Which company member is most likely to lie, cheat, or steal their way to glory?: I’m going to say Brian Collins, Joey from Jersey Shore. Maybe not so much Brain himself he’s a sweetheart but his other half Joey… not so much.

Most likely to commit a beauty fail?: Beauty fail goes to … damn… me. Not my other half, Terence he’s flawless but me… oy.

Most likely to be involved in a scandal?: I feel like Jay Yoder would be the one to be in a scandal. Just does.

Most likely to win Miss Congeniality?: Miss Congeniality has to go to the hilarious Alexis. In and out of character she’s just the most original, funny, sweet heart around.

Most likely to be a future stage parent?: This maybe Terence talking but I don’t see anyone being a bat shit crazy pageant mom. No, nada, no way.

Most likely to have a showmance: Oy vey… I guess I got to say me and Yoder, I mean we do hard core make out. Also given the fact more than half our cast are girls and the few boys we have are well... not interested in those parts, makes things a little difficult.

Who’s the most offensive?: Most offensive…. I guess character wise Miss New Jersey, but Samantha is a sweetie. Represent!

Most ruthless?: No doubt most ruthless would be Heather Cadarette. She will stop at nothing to get her way. Nah, she’s a angel. Now her other half Bonnie Rae, she’s a different story.

Best pageant cry?: This hands down goes to Miss Utah, Julia. You will just have to see why when you see the show.

Sash, bouquet or tiara?: Tiara all the way, what little gay boy doesn’t dream of owning a tiara.

What is your favorite moment of Pageant Tales and Beauty Fails?: Oh geesh, my favorite moment would have to be… the cat fight. Best!! Makes me laugh every time I see it.

What is the most rewarding part about being a member of Pageant Tales and Beauty Fails?: The most rewarding part Is working with such a beautiful and talented cast. It’s not every day you get to work with such a great cast and I’m loving every moment.

Why should we come see Pageant Tales and Beauty Fails?: You should come see it because you will regret it if you don’t. This is going to make waves in the theatre and you are not going to want to miss this piece of theatre history. Trust me.

For more on Pageant Tales and Beauty Fails, visit facebook.com/pageanttalesandbeautyfails. For tickets, visit Smart Tix.

Holidays with the family can certainly be an adventure. Sometimes the celebrations are happy and festive. Other times it can be a dramafest. In Colin Drucker’s new play Mother’s Day, we watch as a family is torn apart when they reunite on a very specific holiday.
Mother’s Day follows the Pollacks as they come together as a family to celebrate the titular holiday. This Mother’s Day is a special occasion as it is one of the first reunion in a long while and Joey Pollack, who is out and proud as drag queen Helen Back, reveals he is about to be a dad. Drucker’s bold script has its moments. With the exception of Karl Gregory as Joey slash Helen Back, the script and company goe from corny sitcom to overdramatic Lifetime movie. Before the drama comes in full force, the way director Reginald L. Douglas showcases the humor is through a very “here’s the set up, there’s the punchline” manner. Joey slash Helen Back spends the majority of the show dropping zings and very pointed insults, all of which happen to hilarious. The reactions and mannerisms lead to moments that may be better suited for a laugh track. The overall themes Drucker brings to light are quite interesting. The way the Pollacks treat Joey as his Helen Back persona is wonderful to watch. Acceptance is a beautiful thing. But as we soon learn the true nature of the family, the sides each member takes, and specifically the concessions mother Liz takes in her treatment of Joey slash Helen Back is quite horrific. What was once a fun play about a loving family quickly turns into something quite upsetting. The climax truly does tear a family apart. Could this be realistic? Absolutely. But seeing this portrayal on stage is devastating. Liz Pollack is a hateable character. Whether it’s the character or Gregory’s brilliant performance, he’s likeable. When pitted against Liz, there is no way to have any empathy for her.

The ensemble overall is quite polarizing. Karl Gregory is by far the best part of the show. Gregory does a flawless job shifting from “always on” Helen Back and damaged Joey. Gregory’s performance is so strong, he makes the rest of the cast look mediocre at best. Brough Hansen has very little to work with as older brother Nicky. Nicky’s presence allows for trouble to stir up, putting him mostly on the defense. The scene between Hansen and Gregory is the strongest and most grounded in the entire show. Liz Pollack is a despicable character. Renee Claire Bergeron’s portrayal of the horror mom is simply a whiney victim with no redeeming qualities. There are moments when you want to boo Bergeron’s Liz. From what we see of the character, there is no hope for her to get help and change. Bergeron and Neal Lerner as husband Talbott have very little chemistry and believability. The script is a family dramedy at its core. With the addition of a non family member retracts from it's purpose. Rhonda Ayers as Suzanne is more if a device than a necessity. Next to Gregory, Bergeron, Lerner, and Ayers showcase almost a community theater quality to their performance.
Reginald L. Douglas has an almost Jekyll and Hyde approach to the script. Sure, there is comedy and drama within, but they are so drastic they feel as if they’re lifted from two separate plays. His staging is filled with actor movements just to create new stage pictures. Gregory’s Joey slash Helen Back falls victim to this quite often, especially when preparing for a joke. The set by Colin McGurk evokes the lived-in New Jersey home quite well providing the basic necessities. Costume designer Orli Nativ did a fabulous job dressing Helen Back and giving Nicky the local punch. The costumes for the other three, especially Suzanne’s leopard print, were very hokey, reminiscent of the sitcom feel.
Mother’s Day is a script with so much promise. It is a script that needs a nice polish and a stronger vision. Regardless of it’s future, Karl Gregory’s character is an integral part of what this story is.

Name: Samantha Joanna Algieri

Hometown: Lyndhurst, NJ

Education: BA in Psychology

Who do you play in Pageant Tales and Beauty Fails?: Nicole, Miss Jerzy

Describe your character in three words: Blunt, Ballsy, Bitchy

Tell us about Pageant Tales and Beauty Fails: A comedy about a bunch of dames who have no clue what the hell they’re doing at this pageant but they all feel they are the winners.

Describe Pageant Tales and Beauty Fails in three words: Fun, Witty, Eccentric

What beauty pageant would you win?: The ‘I would rather be in yoga pants eating Ben&Jerry’s” pageant #CherryGarciaIsMyJam

What pageant portion are you most likely to dominate?: The part where I walk from the line of girls to the microphone and back. Oh! And the fake smiling portion is ALL ME.

Which company member is most likely to lie, cheat, or steal their way to glory?: Ian, it’s the quiet ones you have to watch out for.

Most likely to commit a beauty fail?: All of the above because we are all Gods creations and nobody is perfect

Most likely to be involved in a scandal?: Sophie. Always have to be careful with those Aryans, know what I’m saying?

Most likely to win Miss Congeniality?: Um, Julia, have you SEEN THAT HAIR.

Most likely to be a future stage parent?: Madeline. She’s the tallest so she’s already on top of the future stage parent world.

Most likely to host a beauty pageant?: Alexis really nails it. I think her alter ego is Marjorie and just doesn’t tell anyone.

Most likely to have a showmance: Jay and Matthew

Who's the most offensive?: Brian the Bostonian because he’s from, well, Boston in which they tend to like New England sports team and that’s really offensive, so Y-E-A-H!

Most ruthless?: I’m going to say me because I really think it’s true

Best pageant cry?: Kate

Sash, bouquet, or tiara?: Divas want it ALL.

What is your favorite moment of Pageant Tales and Beauty Fails?: The part where I just drop the “f bomb” and walk away with complete sass.

What is the most rewarding part about being a member of Pageant Tales and Beauty Fails?: Working with a great group of talented actors.

Why should we come see Pageant Tales and Beauty Fails?: Because I’m in it, DUH.

For more on Pageant Tales and Beauty Fails, visit facebook.com/pageanttalesandbeautyfails.com. For tickets, visit Smart Tix.

Write what you know. It's the mantra some writers live by while others stray far far away from. When you write what you know, chances are the emotional stakes will be ever present. In Cory Conley's latest play Magic Kingdom, Conley taps into a moment of his life, or a coincidental moment, and brings it to the stage in a wonderfully theatrical style. And who better to tell his story than Conley himself.
Magic Kingdom follows Cory as he travels to the Magic Kingdom to rescue his sister, Claire, and niece from, well, Claire. After being abandoned by her husband in Tomorrowland, Claire sets out to make a new home right in the Magic Kingdom. As insanity ensues, we meet a cast of characters including old and new flames for both siblings, zany tourists, and Mickey himself! No, not the mouse but the personification of the mouse’s corporation. Conley's script is nothing short of smart, clever, and beyond engaging. The theatricality of the world is quite brilliant. The story is told simply. Sure some of the circumstances are a bit out there but that's what makes Conley loveable. And if you're enthusiasts of the source location, there are some fun inside jokes for you. Despite the D word never being uttered, the Happiest Place on Earth is present through reference and projections. The one tiny question that begs to be asked is what if another actor played Cory. Would the story still be told properly? Sure, this is a personal story and Conley is a wonderful nonchalant comedian, but with such a beautiful script, any sense of indulgence would deter from its intent.

To bring this play to life, a fantastic ensemble of actors was assembled. Marisa Lark Wallin was fantastic as the wise beyond her years Emma. She easily played nine years old without becoming a caricature. Daniel K. Isaac as Mickey delivered some of the evenings greatest moments with his perfect deadpan as the iconic corporation. Cameron Michael Burns as Dylan and Tyler, two of Cory’s love interests, plays youthful and innocent with hilarity. Burns receives a show stopping applause after his rousingly entertaining Facebook post monologue. An extra special recognition should be given to Drew Ledbetter as the button pusher controlling the projections. If you caught Ledbetter in the back watching the show, you couldn’t help but smiling at how excited he was to watch the action.
Director Craig Baldwin does a fabulous job using the space to it’s fullest and keeping the action lively and entertaining. Baldwin’s brilliance in simplicity easily told the story, nailing the range of emotions lifted from Conley’s script. Miriam Nilofa Crowe’s lights were colorful, evoking the happy endorphins Magic Kingdom naturally spreads.
Magic Kingdom is nothing short but amusing and a beautiful script. The entire teams does a fantastic job telling Conley’s story. The burning question for the future is does this play live on without Cory as Cory. But without a doubt, this another incredible script from a brilliant mind.

Name: Jarrett Jay Yoder

Hometown: Archbold, Ohio

Education: The American Music and Dramatic Academy

Who do you play in Pageant Tales and Beauty Fails?: The one and only Alan Price

Describe your character in three words: I love myself.

Tell us about Pageant Tales and Beauty Fails: Brilliant, zany characters running around in the most hysterical way possible.

Describe Pageant Tales and Beauty Fails in three words: Devilishly beautiful chaos.

What beauty pageant would you win?: Sushi Eating Contest….Pageant

What pageant portion are you most likely to dominate?: Question and Answer

Which company member is most likely to lie, cheat, or steal their way to glory?: Victoria ;)

Most likely to commit a beauty fail?: Myself

Most likely to be involved in a scandal?: Matthew

Most likely to win Miss Congeniality?: Alexis

Most likely to be a future stage parent?: Victoria

Most likely to host a beauty pageant?: Alexis

Most likely to have a showmance: Sam and Brian

Most ruthless?: Madeline

Best pageant cry?: Julia

Sash, bouquet, or tiara?: TIARA

What is your favorite moment of Pageant Tales and Beauty Fails?: Miss Louisana’s answer to the Question and Answer

What is the most rewarding part about being a member of Pageant Tales and Beauty Fails?: Working with such and incredible cast, director, and writer.

Why should we come see Pageant Tales and Beauty Fails?: If you don’t see this show, your life will be chaos.

For more on Pageant Tales and Beauty Fails, visit facebook.com/pageanttalesandbeautyfails. For tickets, visit Smart Tix.

Name: Melinda Buckley

Hometown: North Attleboro, MA

Education: BA Dance, Theater with a minor in Music

Select Credits: Broadway: Crazy for You, A Chorus Line and the ill fated Raggedy Ann (which was directed/choreographed by the most wonderful Pat Birch). Also, National Tour of Sweet Charity directed/choreographed by Bob Fosse.

Why theater?: Theater has always been like church to me. The place I go to 'commune' with something bigger than myself. I've always found great theater to be thrilling, powerful and transformative.

Who do you play in Mother?:  I play all the characters in this story: myself, my Mom and everyone she and I encountered 'along the way,' so to speak...

Tell us about Mother: Well, obviously it's about a Mother... mine; who I always thought of as my 'larger than life Hungarian Mama Rose.' She was a real character but her strength and undying support of me and my dreams, propelled me all the way to Broadway. When she became ill, the tables turned... and I stepped into a very different role. MOTHER tells that story but hopefully in a very creative way. It incorporates music, pop culture, humor and a narrative that goes back and forth through time to tell a story of love and what it truly means to be family.

What is it like being a part of Mother?:  Right now, it's an unbelievably amazing and exciting experience... a true labor of love, and I'm so thrilled to be a part of FringeNYC, I can't even describe it!
What kind of theater speaks to you? What or who inspires you as an artist?: I love creative, innovative staging. For example, I loved Peter and the Starcatcher. The recent Glass Menagerie, and a few years back, Stones in his Pockets. (I can't wait to see Fiasco's Into the Woods choreographed by my friend Lisa Shriver.) When I was a young dancer in Germany, I went to everything Pina Bausch did. That blend of dance, theater, set design and audio... this collage form of story telling... was a powerful influence on me. I also LOVE the art of solo performance. From the first time I saw Lily Tomlin's "Search for Signs of Intelligence" I was hooked. And then Eric Bogosian, John Lequizamo, Spaulding Gray, Mike Daisy... I just love the range and versatility of these artists and their ability to create a whole world on the spot out of their words and themselves.

Any roles you’re dying to play?: Oh, dear... I can't think past MOTHER at the moment!

What’s your favorite showtune?: Ack... how can I possibly pick just one?? Anything Sondheim. Right now, I've got "Everybody Says Don't" on my brain... I think it's to inspire me to keep going.

If you could work with anyone you’ve yet to work with, who would it be?: Oh my gosh, there are so many! Des McAnuff, for one. I loved how he staged Billy Crystal's solo show, 700 Sundays.

Who would play you in a movie about yourself and what would it be called?: In my improv days, we used to joke that my movie would be: "Wigs in my knapsack... the Melinda Buckley story." And I guess since a lot of people think I resemble Catherine Keener, she'd get to play me.

What show have you recommended to your friends?: I really loved Fun Home at the Public last year. And Murder for Two, which just closed.

What’s the most played song on your iTunes?: I just checked my iTunes playlist. It's a track called, "Middle Age Trifecta" and it underscores a funny bit in my show. You'll have to come see MOTHER to hear it for yourself. ;)

What’s your biggest guilty pleasure?: Sauvignon Blanc and dark chocolate. Equal guilt. Equal pleasure.

What’s up next?:  MOTHER at the FringeNYC!

For more on Melinda, visit www.melindabuckley.com

Name: Michael Bradley Block

Hometown: Mahwah, NJ

Education: Boston University! BC Sucks!

Who do you play in Pageant Tales and Beauty Fails?: I play the role of the playwright. I gave birth to these wacky characters!

Tell us about Pageant Tales and Beauty Fails:Pageant Tales and Beauty Fails is an over-the-top offensively hilarious comedy about a fictional beauty pageant called America’s Goddess and the zany characters who inhabit this year’s event. It’s set up mockumentary style, paying homage to the brilliant Christopher Guest films.

Describe Pageant Tales and Beauty Fails in three words: Fabulous, Hysterical, Unafraid

What beauty pageant would you win?: Mr. Reality TV

What portion are you most likely to dominate?: The talent portion. The way I can binge watch a TV series is unmatched

Which company member is most likely to lie, cheat, or steal their way to glory?: Sophie Moshofsky. Don't be fooled by those eyes and that smile!

Most likely to commit a beauty fail?: Our director Tony Curtis is either on or he’s so far off. One day you’ll see him rocking Express, the next he’ll be paying homage to high school fashion fails.

Most likely to be involved in a scandal?: Matthew Menendez. Absolutely.

Most likely to win Miss Congeniality?: In this case, it would be changed to Mr. Congeniality and it would definitely go to Ian Way. He’s so darn nice and funny!

Most likely to be a future stage parent?: Victoria. I say whoever cast this show can see into the future

Most likely to host a beauty pageant?: Jay. He has the voice of a host!

Most likely to have a showmance: Oh man. Jay…he’s always prepared with the mints!

Who's the most offensive?: I’m going to have to say myself…see the play and you’ll understand.

Most ruthless?: Julia Warner. I heard she killed a girl to play Rhiannon.

Best pageant cry?: They’re all pretty brilliant at it!

Sash, bouquet, or tiara?: The money! Who the hell wrote these questions?

What is your favorite moment of Pageant Tales and Beauty Fails?: For me, working on a new piece in a room of brilliant collaborators, my favorite moment is being able to make changes with the actors. They are all hilarious. Having a process where you watch them bring these characters to life, as a playwright, you can’t help but want to continue to develop and mold these characters for them!

What is the most rewarding part about being a member of Pageant Tales and Beauty Fails?: I am so fortunate to work with such a great group of artists. And to be working alongside my friends is so rewarding. I get to share this special moment with them.

Why should we come see Pageant Tales and Beauty Fails?: It’s hilarious! If you’re looking for a night at the theater where you’re allowed to laugh and have a good time, Pageant Tales and Beauty Fails is the play for you. It’s theater where you’re not forced to think!

For more on Pageant Tales and Beauty Fails, visit facebook.com/pageanttalesandbeautyfails. For tickets, visit Smart Tix.

Name: Sophie Moshofsky

Hometown: Portland, Oregon.

Education: Well, I learned to read with my Mom and Dad. I graduated from Oklahoma City University with a BFA in acting.

Who do you play in Pageant Tales and Beauty Fails?: Like… Kayla. Miss California.

Describe your character in three words: Like like like

Tell us about Pageant Tales and Beauty Fails: It’s freakin hilarious! It highlights so many stereotypes of different kinds of American gals and brings them all together in the most estrogen filled situation to fight to the death: a beauty pageant.

Describe Pageant Tales and Beauty Fails in three words: Like so funny.

What beauty pageant would you win?: Well, I just heard there’s a Miss Beautiful Bottom… maybe I could win that. Or like… Miss Weirdo.

What pageant portion are you most likely to dominate?: Talent or Interview

Which company member is most likely to lie, cheat, or steal their way to glory?: Hahaha. Ummm… I can’t say.

Most likely to commit a beauty fail?: I feel like it’s me… it has to be me… Yep, it’s definitely me.

Most likely to be involved in a scandal?: Oooh! Michael and Tony. HAHA.

Most likely to win Miss Congeniality?: Alexis. She’s a doll.

Most likely to be a future stage parent?: Oh my gosh, Victoria. She’s already so good at it.

Most likely to host a beauty pageant?: Jay. He really has the voice down.

Most likely to have a showmance: Jay and Matt- I kind of want it to happen.

Who's the most offensive?: I guess Samantha, but it’s really more her character. She’s a natural though :0)

Most ruthless?: No one. They’re all perfect.

Best pageant cry?: Julia. By far.

Sash, bouquet, or tiara?: OOH! Um… all of them. I like bouquets though. They smell good.

What is your favorite moment of Pageant Tales and Beauty Fails?: I love when Kate does her poem about Louisiana. Like… dribble dribble drip drop? That shitake is hilarious. I like doing my scenes with Ian too.

What is the most rewarding part about being a member of Pageant Tales and Beauty Fails?: This is my first full production in New York. It feels so good to be a part of something- and something GOOD at that! I love the people, the script, the work… it feels good to work.

Why should we come see Pageant Tales and Beauty Fails?: You’ll laugh, you may cry, and you’ll have a great time! The theatre isn’t just for us, man. We’re doing this for you!

For more on Pageant Tales and Beauty Fails, visit facebook.com/pageanttalesandbeautyfails. For tickets, visit Smart Tix.

Mormon's are so in. While pop culture occasional pokes fun at the religion, exploring the deeper seeded truths of Mormonism is refreshing. In Roger Benington's highly brazen and intellectual The Mormon Bird Play, an ensemble of six young men explore the story of Ivona a mute girl through the Mormon lens.
From birds to pioneers to young girls, The Mormon Bird Play is a series of sketches with a through story about a young mute girl named Ivona and her journey to baptism. Along the way, the allegoric dream concept explores the history of the Mormon religion. As writer and director, Benington certainly has a vision. If you have difficulty processing this play, you're not alone. The script is quite thorough and poetic but occasionally difficult to follow. While the focus is primarily on Ivona, it shifts over to Evan's story. Though they do intersect, it gets a bit blurred. The play is a morality play about faith and identity with two young characters on opposite sides of the spectrum. Despite Ivona being the focal point of the characters’ discussion, it’s Evan’s journey that is truly more appealing. When the play moves into the dream concept, the energy explodes and the comedy truly shines.

With a progressive script to tackle, the ensemble was all willing and able to play. Leading the flock was Billy Hutto as Pippa. Hutto offered a transformative performance as the young, opptomistic girl. Hutto’s commitment was committed and flawless, easily livening Pippa. James Leach as Clifford was beautifully naïve. Like Hutto, Leach discovered his character with great ability, you could believe him as a young boy. Thomas Sullivan as Evan and Brennan Pickman-Thoon brought drive to their moments on stage.
Roger Benington had his hands completely full wearing three hats for the production. As writer, director, and scenic and costume designer, Benington ensured his vision was perfectly executed. From a design stand point, Benington created a visually stimulating world for his characters to live in. With perhaps the exception of Jordan Parente’s Brenda’s costume, an ill colored burlap sack looking dress, the costumes fit the characters and the actors quite well. The simplicity of the scenic design, including a piece of fabric that could be pulled on a clothes line allowed lighting designer Philip Treino to do wonders with color and mood.
The Mormon Bird Play is a polarizing work. It’s smart and unique but occasionally prevents the audience to enter the world without previous knowledge of the said world. Where The Mormon Bird Play shines is through the pictures Benington creates on stage.

Name: Heather Cadarette

Hometown: Hemet, CA

Education: BA, UCSD

Who do you play in Pageant Tales and Beauty Fails?: Bonnie Rae

Describe your character in three words: Evil, young, competitive

Tell us about Pageant Tales and Beauty Fails: Reality show on stage

Describe Pageant Tales and Beauty Fails in three words: Staged reality show

What beauty pageant would you win?: This one

What pageant portion are you most likely to dominate?: Talent

Which company member is most likely to lie, cheat, or steal their way to glory?: Matt

Most likely to commit a beauty fail?: Tony obviously

Most likely to be involved in a scandal?: Michael

Most likely to win Miss Congeniality?: Sophie

Most likely to be a future stage parent?: My mamma, Victoria

Most likely to host a beauty pageant?: Jay

Most likely to have a showmance: Ian. Jk he's married.

Who's the most offensive?: Alexis. Not.

Most ruthless?: Julia

Best pageant cry?: Kate

Sash, bouquet, or tiara?: Tiara

What is your favorite moment of Pageant Tales and Beauty Fails?: The talent portion. Let it go.

What is the most rewarding part about being a member of Pageant Tales and Beauty Fails?: getting to sing my favorite song.

Why should we come see Pageant Tales and Beauty Fails?: to see me sing my favorite song.

There have been a lot of movies in the history of, well, movies. Some legendary, some clunkers. But the fine folks at the American Film Institute, or AFI for those who only know it by that name, have watched every single movie ever and compiled a list of the 100 greatest. And that is the source of the new comedy The List (The Greatest, Most Absurd 100 American Movies Mash-Up Parody Ever Stitched Together).

Written by Bryan T. Donovan, The List takes the AFI 100 Top 100 and slams them all together. The play is set up as one of the list makers questioning the list thus forcing him to watch them all thus forcing him to go insane and literally see all the movies as one. The man takes the role of Oscar Schindler and goes on a journey through cinema history. On the journey we meet some epic mash-ups, through plot and character, which keep the play churning. The majority of the audience will probably have not seen the entire list, but writer Donovan doesn’t care. To tackle all 100 takes some skill, he pulled from some more obscure moments, but where The List shines is through the obvious. Letting an audience in on the joke is a surefire way for a laugh. So when you attempt to pull a laugh from something the audience may not get, chances are it’s not actually funny. But using the obvious quotes and characters, that’s when the funny came out. Unfortunately, that wasn’t very often. It’s commendable what Donovan did, but the execution in script was not as strong as it could have been.
The ensemble of four, including Donovan, Matt W. Cody, Mallory Hawks, and Amanda Huxtable, seemed to never stop going from character to character, costume to costume. Cody took on the role of Schindler, bringing his main plot to life via an abundance of voices and quotes. For the most part, Donovan gave himself the meatier roles, many of which including drag. Donovan has a great ability to transform from character to character. Mallory Hawks shined in the Eve Harrington track. Amanda Huxtable clearly had the least stage time but brought some of the funniest moments in her mash-up of the late Katherine Hepburn and Princess Leia.
Director Regan Adair kept the fast-paced play moving. With the aid of the brilliant video design by Lianne Arnold, Adair was able to cover quick changes with ease through Arnold’s sublime video. Natalie Robin’s lights were swift and easily transformable into the billion worlds the characters journeyed through. Benjamin Klemes had a very difficult assignment as costume designer by not only having to replicate some iconic costumes but allow the actors to transform from one into another. For the most part Klemes did a fine job at iconography.
Deciding what the greatest movies of all time will always be up for debate, but what is on that list is quite great. Unfortunately, the way Donovan stitched together The List may not have been as funny as it should have been. Though his passion and love for the movies shined, it just was not enough to keep the audience in stitches.

Spotlight On...Hannah Sloat

The Dreaded Q&A with...Madeline Hickman

Review: Stay Away Message

Review: Escaping the Prison Within

The Dreaded Q&A with...Alexis Robbins

Review: The Moral is Sexting is Bad

Spotlight On...Nathan Wellman

Spotlight On...Gene Fisch, Jr.

Review: A 1950s Puppet's House

The Dreaded Q&A with...Matthew Menendez

Review: Mother's Day from Helen Back

The Dreaded Q&A with...Samantha Algieri

Review: Magic Exists

The Dreaded Q&A with...Jarrett Jay Yoder

Spotlight On...Melinda Buckley

The Dreaded Q&A with...Michael Bradley Block

The Dreaded Q&A with...Sophie Moshofsky

Review: A Flock of Mormons

The Dreaded Q&A with...Heather Cadarette

Review: The (Almost) Ultimate Movie Mash-Up