Ledyard High School Drama

a few final shots from rehearsal

2011-11-11T19:03:00.002-05:00

Some more rehearsal shots

2011-11-11T19:00:00.002-05:00

Rehearsal shots

2011-11-11T18:54:00.002-05:00

Show week is here!

2011-11-11T07:45:00.000-05:00

On Friday and Saturday evening, November 18-19, at 7:30 p.m. at United Methodist Church in Gales Ferry, We will present Edgar Lee's Masters Spoon River Anthology. In Spoon River, we are introduced in a cemetery to the ghosts of those who were inhabitants of the town and whose secrets have gone with them to the grave. There are sixty odd characterizations and vignettes in this constantly interesting entertainment offering an amazingly varied array of roles and impersonations, from young lovers and preachers and teachers to the chronicle of the poor mixed up soul that has ended up in the wrong cemetery. Both the sordid and humorous sides of life are portrayed, through fetching ballads, and the free verse form of Masters Poetry. The cast features ten actors playing a wide variety of roles and five musicians who sing and play guitar throughout the course of the evening. Tickets are $5 and they will be available at the door the night of the performance. For more information contact Russ Hammond at 860 464-9600 ext. 145.

Marriage of Bette and Boo at Waterford High School

2011-10-01T18:27:00.000-04:00

On Friday, October 14, all drama students should plan on joining the fun, as Waterford High School Drama performs Christopher Durang's The Marriage of Bette and Boo. Mr. Hammond will cover your ticket cost. The plan is to meet at Waterford High School no later than 7:15 for the 7:30 curtain. Bette and Boo is outrageously funny but it is also quite mature. Please read a review or two of the show and make sure you have your parents permission to attend. This is not a Ledyard High School field trip. I am simply attending the show and would love to have all of you join me for a great evening of drama bonding and good theatre.

Plan Now to attend!!

2011-10-01T18:13:00.000-04:00

The CT Educational Theatre
Association Conference

A Frightfully Fabulous Festival!!
Hosted by CT Troupe #6979
on Saturday October 29th
at Waterford High School in Waterford, CT

A day of individual Events -
- Workshops -
- Performances -
- Tech Challenge -
- College Scholarships -
- Coin Wars & Raffle -
- Lots of Spiders! -

Congratulations cast of Spoon River Anthology

2011-09-28T19:00:00.000-04:00

First rule of Ledyard Drama

Act well your part for there lies all honor

Second rule

There are no small parts only small actors

Read thru Thursday 2:30-4:00 in the auditorium.

Congrats!

Cast:

Bob Ai
Nick Archibald
Melissa Billing
Alec Chattin
Amber Coombe
Ashley Giordano
Victoria Gordon
Sara Harvey
Patrick Lockaby
Forest Smith
Sarah Stryker

Here we go!

2011-09-21T11:31:00.000-04:00

Hello! Let me start by saying that I am excited at taking on the challenge of being Drama Director for Ledyard Drama. Having been Director of Theatre Arts at Lyme/Old Lyme High School for fourteen years, where I directed over thirty shows, I feel confident that, together, we can build on the already successful tradition of excellent theatre at Ledyard High School. I am also aware that change can be difficult and I am sure there will be a transition period as we get used to each other. Let's all promise to be open minded as we move forward and let's keep focused on our primary goal of bringing to life wonderful characters and telling wonderful stories. Our efforts should make both ourselves and our audience’s laugh, cry, think, and experience all the rest of the wide range of emotions associated with the human condition. Theatre is the exploration of life and ultimately it is the sharing of our findings with our audiences. I look forward to the journey.

Mr. Hammond

2011-05-17T08:18:00.002-04:00

DVD's of Scapin are available...we only have Thursday night. Please come and see Mrs. Gwin in the Nurse's Office to reserve your DVD!

SCAPIN - Thursday & Friday May 12 & 13 at 7 PM

2011-05-11T11:54:00.001-04:00

O'Neill Theater Center Junior Cabaret Program - 5/17 auditions

2011-05-07T17:52:00.001-04:00

The Eugene O’Neill Theater Center invites New London County residents ages 12-19 to audition for its Junior Cabaret program. Junior Cabaret Fellows will have two weeks of master classes and performance opportunities alongside the O’Neill’s professional guest artists at the 2011 Cabaret & Performance Conference. Students selected to participate must be available August 3-13, from 9am-10pm daily. Due to the generous support of donors, the Junior Fellows program is fully funded and students will be provided with classes and meals at no cost.

Auditions will be held Tuesday, May 17 from 2-6pm by appointment only. Students auditioning should prepare a song to sing. A pianist will be provided and if accompaniment is desired, students must bring sheet music to the audition. Auditions will be held in the O’Neill’s Dina Merrill Theater with Cabaret & Performance Conference To schedule an audition, email Jill A. Anderson at generalmanagement@theoneill.org.

Saturday, May 7 - Final Tech Day plus PIZZA!

2011-05-04T18:24:00.000-04:00

Saturday, May 7th is our last Saturday Set-Building/Painting day to put the final touches on the tech-side of SCAPIN. We'll be there from 10 till at least 1 PM - and we will have PIZZA hot from the oven served-up to anyone who can join us and lend a hand. Pizza will be served on the stage for anyone who has helped work on the crew.

Take a walk on the tech-side and get a little lunch on LHS DRAMA.

LHS Drama Student Kyla Wingrove-Haugland will be at O'Neill Festival this May

2011-04-29T09:36:00.003-04:00

Kyla Wingrove-Haugland (in fez) practicing for her role as the miser Gerante
in the upcoming production of SCAPIN with Melissa Billing as Nerine.

LHS Drama is very proud to announce that Kyla Wingrove-Haugland will be representing Ledyard with a short play included in The Eugene O'Neill Theater Center's 6th Annual Young Playwrights Festival. The student festival is modeled on the O'Neill's National Playwrights Conference dedicated to new works for the stage. A presentation of the plays on May 8 at 5 PM is free and open to the public. Kyla originally wrote this piece for the LHS Drama project 6 IMPOSSIBLE THINGS BEFORE BREAKFAST.

This year's line-up of works were chosen for development from among 109 submissions:

The End by Alma Doran, Fitch Senior High School;
Elevator by Brianna Matava, Rockville High School;
Facebook World by Sarah Riemann, Clark Lane Middle School;
Notebook by Kevin Schlink, Waterford High School;
The Truck Stop by Kyla Wingrove-Haugland, Ledyard High School

During the Young Playwrights Festival, student playwrights spend two days working collaboratively with a professional creative team consisting of a director, dramaturg, and actors to explore, revise and develop their plays, bringing their written words to life. The Festival will culminate with a script-in-hand public reading of the students' work at 5:00 pm on Sunday, May 8 in the Dina Merrill Theater, Eugene O'Neill Theater Center, 305 Great Neck Road, Waterford; the performance is free and open to the public.

INFO: http://www.theoneill.org or e-mail Sophia Chapadjiev, Festival Director, at sophia@theoneill.org.

Set painting and construction continues Saturday 4/30 & 5/7

2011-04-08T08:11:00.004-04:00

We will be meeting from 10 to 1 PM Saturday 4/30 to continue construction and painting of the set for SCAPIN and to set the lights. We could use your help, and the help of parents or friends. Please come dressed for work with closed-toe shoes and an old shirt if you'd like help paint. If you have a power drill or other hand tools, please bring them.

Work Crew Sign-Up for SCAPIN

2011-04-06T10:03:00.003-04:00

Thur, April 7 - Hannah & Grace
Sat, April 9 - Laura Forte
Tues April 12 - Kyla & Abby
Thur, April 14 - Hannah & Melissa
Tues, April 26 - Paige & Abby
Thur, April 28 - Hannah
Sat, April 30 - Justin
Tues, May 3 - Abby
Thur, May 5 - Abby
Sat, May 7 - Hannah

Also - any of the Saturdays, we could use as many hands as possible from 10 AM to 1 PM - well be building, painting and setting the lights.

Scapin April/May Rehearsal Schedule

2011-04-04T10:25:00.002-04:00

WEEK 6

Mon. 4/4 2:20-3:50 Full Cast

Tues. 4/5 2:20-3:50 Act I; Sc 1, 2, 4 – Scap, Syl, Ocr

Wed. 4/6 2:20-3:50 Act I; Sc 3 – Scap, Syl, Oct, Hya; Act II; Sc 1 – Hya, Zerb, Scap, Syl

Thur, 4/7 2:20-3:50 Act I; Sc 5, 6 & 7 – Scap, Syl, Ner, Ger, Arg

Fri. 4/8 2:20-3:50 Act I; Sc 2, 8, 9, 10 – Lean, Ger, Oct, Scap, Syl, Hya

WEEK 7

Mon. 4/11 2:20-3:50 Full Cast

Tues. 4/12 2:20-3:50 Act I; Sc 11 & 12 – Scap, Syl, Arg

Wed. 4/13 2:20-3:50 Act I; Sc 13, 14, 15 – Lean, Oct, Scap, Syl, Ner, Ger, Act II; Sc 1 – Hya, Zerb

Thur, 4/14 2:20-3:50 Stage Crew Meeting & work on set

Fri. 4/15 2:20-3:50 No Rehearsal

WEEK 8 – Spring Vacation

Work on your lines EVERYDAY!

WEEK 9

Mon. 4/25 2:20-3:50 Full Cast

Tues. 4/26 2:20-3:50 Act II; Sc 1, 2, 3 – Scap, Syl, Hya, Zerb, Ger

Wed. 4/27 12:30-3:30 Act II; Sc 4, 5, 6, 7 – Scap, Syl, Ger, Arg, Hya, Zerb, Oct, Lean, Ner

Thur, 4/28 2:20-3:50 Act I; Sc 5, 6, 7, 11, 12 – Scap, Syl, Arg, Ger, Ner

Fri. 4/29 2:20-3:50 Act I; Sc 3, 4, 8, 9, 10 – Scap, Syl, Oct, Hya, Lean, Ger

WEEK 10

Mon. 5/2 2:20-3:50 Full Cast & Crew – Act I

Tues. 5/3 2:20-3:50 Full Cast & Crew – Act I

Wed. 5/4 2:20-3:50 Full Cast & Crew – Act II

Thur, 5/5 2:20-3:50 Full Cast & Crew – Act II

Fri. 5/6 2:20-3:50 Tech Check & TBA

Sat. 5/7 10:00-2:00 Stage- set-up – full crew and anyone who can be here!

WEEK 11 – PRODUCTION WEEK

Mon. 5/9 2:20-6:00 Tech Rehearsal – Full Crew @ 2:20 –

Full Company @ 3:45 (no costumes)

Tues. 5/10 2:30-6:00 Full-Dress Rehearsal – Crew 2:20; 3:30 PM actor call – Full Company

Wed, 5/11 6:00-10:00 Final Dress Rehearsal – Crew 5:30; 6 PM call – Full Company

Thurs. 5/12 6:00-10:00 Opening Performance – Crew 5:30; 6 PM call – Full Company

Fri. 5/13 6:00-10:30 Final Performance – 6 PM call – FULL COMPANY

stay after to strike set & clean-up spaces

Set Construction & Painting continues this Saturday 4/2

2011-04-01T09:06:00.002-04:00

We will be meeting from 10 to 1 PM this Saturday 4/2/11 in the auditorium to continue construction of the Scapin set and begin painting. If you can come lend a hand for a couple of hours, we would love to see you.

Dress for work - shoes that cover toes, and clothes that can get dirty. If you have work gloves or hand tools like a hammer or power drill, bring those too.

See you!

Rehearsal Wednesday March 30th is Canceled

2011-03-29T23:18:00.000-04:00

There will not be a rehearsal for SCAPIN Wednesday, March 30th. We will resume the posted schedule on Thursday.

No set building this Saturday

2011-03-25T10:43:00.000-04:00

We will not be meeting Saturday, March 26th to build sets -- but will resume construction and painting of the set Saturday April 2 from 10 AM to 1 PM in the auditorium.

Set Construction starts this 3/11

2011-03-11T12:07:00.001-05:00

On Saturday 3/11 we will begin set construction and costume search! We're meeting from 10 AM to 1 PM in the LHS Auditorium for anyone who wants to bring a hammer, a portable drill, or other implements of destruction and lend a hand!

SCAPIN revised rehearsal schedule

2011-03-03T10:08:00.005-05:00

SCAPIN – REHEARSAL Schedule — REVISED 3/3/11

Read the entire schedule

There will be a separate schedule for the crew and tech.

WEEK 1

Mon. 2/28 2:20-3:50 Read the play – ENTIRE CAST AND CREW

Tues. 3/1 2:20-3:50 No rehearsal

Wed. 3/2 2:20-3:50 No Rehearsal

Thur, 3/3 2:20-3:50 Act I; Sc 1, 2, 4 – Scap, Syl, Ocr

Fri. 3/4 2:20-3:50 Act I; Sc 3 & 5 – Scap, Syl, Oct, Hya, Arg

WEEK 2

Mon. 3/7 2:20-3:50 Full Cast

Tues. 3/8 2:20-3:50 Act I; Sc 6 & 7 – Scap, Syl, Ger, Arg

Wed. 3/9 2:20-3:50 Act I; Sc 8, 9, 10, 15 – Lean, Ger, Oct, Scap, Syl

Thur, 3/10 2:20-3:50 Act I; Sc 14 – Scap, Ger (in chorus room)

Fri. 3/11 2:20-3:50 Act I; Sc 11, 12, 13– Scap, Syl, Arg,

WEEK 3

Mon. 3/14 2:20-3:50 Full Cast

Tues. 3/15 2:20-3:50 No Rehearsal – CAPT testing

Wed. 3/16 2:20-3:50 No Rehearsal – CAPT testing

Thur, 3/17 2:20-3:50 Act I; Sc 1, 2, 4 – Scap, Syl, Oct

Fri. 3/18 2:20-3:50 Act I; Sc 6, 7, 8, 9, – Lean, Ger, Oct, Scap, Syl, Ner, Arg

WEEK 4

Mon. 3/21 2:20-3:50 Full Cast

Tues. 3/22 2:20-3:50 Act I; Sc 5, 11, 12 – Scap, Syl, Arg

Wed. 3/23 12:30-3:30 Act I; Sc 10, 13, 14, 15 – Lean, Oct, Scap, Syl, Ner, Ger

Thur, 3/24 2:20-3:50 Act II; Sc 2, 3 – Scap, Ger, Syl

Fri. 3/25 2:20-3:50 Act II; Sc 1 – Scap, Syl, Hya, Zerb; Act I, Sc 3 – Oct, Hya

WEEK 5

Mon. 3/28 2:20-3:50 Full Cast

Tues. 3/29 2:20-3:50 Act I; Sc 11 & 12 – Scap, Syl, Arg

Wed. 3/30 2:20-3:50 Act I; Sc 13, 14, 15 – Lean, Oct, Scap, Syl, Ner, Ger

Thur, 3/31 2:20-3:50 Act II; Sc 2, 3 – Scap, Ger, Syl

Fri. 4/1 2:20-3:50 Act II; Sc 1 – Scap, Syl, Hya, Zerb

Everybody OFF-BOOK starting NOW!

WEEK 6

Mon. 4/4 2:20-3:50 Full Cast

Tues. 4/5 2:20-3:50 Act I; Sc 1, 2, 4 – Scap, Syl, Ocr

Wed. 4/6 2:20-3:50 Act I; Sc 3 – Scap, Syl, Oct, Hya; Act II; Sc 1 – Hya, Zerb, Scap, Syl

Thur, 4/7 2:20-3:50 Act I; Sc 5, 6 & 7 – Scap, Syl, Ner, Ger, Arg

Fri. 4/8 2:20-3:50 Act I; Sc 2, 8, 9, 10 – Lean, Ger, Oct, Scap, Syl, Hya

WEEK 7

Mon. 4/11 2:20-3:50 Full Cast

Tues. 4/12 2:20-3:50 Act I; Sc 11 & 12 – Scap, Syl, Arg

Wed. 4/13 2:20-3:50 Act I; Sc 13, 14, 15 – Lean, Oct, Scap, Syl, Ner, Ger, Act II; Sc 1 – Hya, Zerb

Thur, 4/14 2:20-3:50 Stage Crew Meeting & work on set

Fri. 4/15 2:20-3:50 No Rehearsal

WEEK 8 – Spring Vacation

Work on your lines EVERYDAY!

WEEK 9

Mon. 4/25 2:20-3:50 Full Cast

Tues. 4/26 2:20-3:50 Act II; Sc 1, 2, 3 – Scap, Syl, Hya, Zerb, Ger

Wed. 4/27 12:30-3:30 Act II; Sc 4, 5, 6, 7 – Scap, Syl, Ger, Arg, Hya, Zerb, Oct, Lean, Ner

Thur, 4/28 2:20-3:50 Act I; Sc 5, 6, 7, 11, 12 – Scap, Syl, Arg, Ger, Ner

Fri. 4/29 2:20-3:50 Act I; Sc 3, 4, 8, 9, 10 – Scap, Syl, Oct, Hya, Lean, Ger

WEEK 10

Mon. 5/2 2:20-3:50 Full Cast & Crew – Act I

Tues. 5/3 2:20-3:50 Full Cast & Crew – Act I

Wed. 5/4 2:20-3:50 Full Cast & Crew – Act II

Thur, 5/5 2:20-3:50 Full Cast & Crew – Act II

Fri. 5/6 2:20-3:50 Tech Check & TBA

Sat. 5/7 10:00-2:00 Stage- set-up – full crew and anyone who can be here!

WEEK 11 – PRODUCTION WEEK

Mon. 5/9 2:20-6:00 Tech Rehearsal – Full Crew @ 2:20 –

Full Company @ 3:45 (no costumes)

Tues. 5/10 2:30-6:00 Run thru the show Full Company

Wed. 5/11 2:30-6:00 Full-Dress Rehearsal – Crew 2:20; 3:30 PM actor call – Full Company

Thur, 5/12 6:00-10:00 Final Dress Rehearsal – Crew 5:30; 6 PM call – Full Company

Fri. 5/13 6:00-10:00 Opening Performance – Crew 5:30; 6 PM call – Full Company

Sat. 5/14 6:00-10:30 Final Performance – 6 PM call – FULL COMPANY

stay after to strike set & clean-up spaces

SCAPIN rehearsal info for 2/23 thru 3/2

2011-02-22T21:24:00.001-05:00

Thanks to those who were able to make today's work-crew meeting. We managed to get a head-start on some of the backstage duties and chores. We will not be meeting this Wednesday.

This Thursday 2/24 we are having a pre-rehearsal -- anyone from the cast is welcome to join us, but in particular I'd like to see Nathan, Forest, Bodhi, Ashley, Grace and Paige. We'll be reading thru a couple of scenes, working on comic timing and discussing the structure of the play.

Next week we will be reading the play on Monday and Wednesday. Our regular rehearsals begin on Thursday next week. You can pick up a schedule at the nurse's office or in the envelope on the stage door of the auditorium. I will be creating another schedule for crew and tech meetings.

Stage-managers - please come to as many rehearsals and tech-dates as possible.

The SCAPIN Cast is Announced!

2011-02-16T08:16:00.000-05:00

Cast

Octave: Paige Gruszkowski

Sylvestre: Forest Smith

Scapin: Nathan Watrous

Hyacinth: Grace Chattin

Argante: Tori Gordon

Géronte: Kyla Rose Wingrove

Léandre: Justin Carroll

Zerbinette: Hannah Posey

Nérine: Laura Forte

George: Bodhi Poth (also male understudy)

Georgette: Ashley Giordano

Messengers, Gendarmes (police), Porters: Melissa Billing (also female understudy); Isabel Archibald

Crew

Stage Manager: Cole Poth

Assistant Stage Manager: Isabel Archibald

Lights: Abby Bora

Bill Irwin- some short videos worth viewing

2011-02-03T11:01:00.001-05:00

Check out this video with Bill Irwin and Michael Cerveris running a workshop called Storytelling and the Body at the New School Summer Theater Immersion for young actors.

Bill Irwin works with props at a workshop in Florida.

Anybody who can manage some of these "hat-moves" as seen in the segment from The Regard of Flight will get extra points at the auditions.

And a trailer for last fall's production of Scapin at ART.

Young Plawights Festival at Eugene O'Neill Theater Center

2011-02-03T10:57:00.002-05:00

Have you ever written a play or had an idea for one?

Would you like to see a play of yours workshopped by professionals and presented at the world renowned O'Neill Theater Center in Waterford, CT?

If you answered yes to both these questions, the Young Playrights Festival (YPF) is for you. All you have to do is write a play that is between 10-15 pages, fill out an appalication form and mail your completed application with 2 copies of your play to the O'Neill by Feb. 24, 2011. Plays will the be selected on a competitive basis. The Festival begins the evening of May 6th with rehearsals and culminates with a public reading of selected works on Sunday, May 8th. Vist the "young plawrights" link at www.theONeill.org for more information or for an application...or see Mrs. Gwin in the Nurse's office for the application.

About SCAPIN

2011-02-03T10:13:00.001-05:00

Scapin

Bill Irwin and Mark O'Donnell, adapted from Molière

This adaptation of Molière's 325-year-old farce Les Fourberies de Scapin follows—with some alterations—the play's original structure. It keeps the play in period setting while adding a late twentieth century spin to the language and action, and borrowing some final lines from Molière's La Contesse D'escarbagnas. "This SCAPIN, directed by Irwin…from his felicitous adaptation with Mark O'Donnell, would probably have gone over big with the same audience who first saw Molière's Fourberies de Scapin…in Paris in 1671." —NY Times. "Commedia dell'arte and vaudeville have at least two things in common: baggy pants and Bill Irwin. All make for a natural fit in the celebrated clown's entirely unconventional adaptation of Molière's SCAPIN." —Variety.

THE STORY: The crafty Scapin, servant to the household of Geronte, jumps into the story as he first promises to help in the affairs of his neighbor's son, Octave, then to aid in those of his own charge, Leander (Geronte's son). Both young men have fallen in love with unlikely, and penniless beauties, and both need money to help solve their dilemmas. Scapin knows a good ruse will always win the day and he drafts Sylvestre, Octave's servant, into his schemes. Convincing Sylvestre he's a wonderful actor (and allowing him to build characterizations using movie cliches), Scapin has him play characters who will deceive the family patriarchs into parting with large sums of money. The final scene of the first act is a vaudeville/music hall version of Molière's famous scene in which Scapin spins a tale of kidnapping, foreigners and ransom. Once the money is obtained, however, Scapin pushes further in order to exact a little revenge on those he's served. Thinking Geronte has said something nasty about him, Scapin sets out to teach him a lesson. The roguish words, however, are Scapin's own lies and stories finally coming back to him, his revenge backfires and he must flee. In the end however, Scapin's schemes aid in revealing the penniless beauties to be the exact right mates for the young charges—being of high birth after all since they are discovered to be the missing children of both patriarchs—and Scapin returns to his post, with the pleasant punishment of having to marry the maidservant of one of the daughters. There is a final chase and dance among all the participants, which, inevitably, becomes the raucous, delightful curtain call.

Characters
Octave: (male) Son of Argante and lover of Hyacinthe
Sylvestre: (male or female) Octave's servant
Scapin: (male or female) Léandre's servant
Hyacinth: (female) Daughter of Géronte and lover of Octave
Argante: (male) Father of Octave and of Zerbinette
Géronte: (male) Father of Léandre and of Hyacinthe

Léandre: (male) Son of Géronte and lover of Zerbinette
Zerbinette: (female) Daughter of Argante and lover of Léandre
Nérine: (male or female) Hyacinthe's servant
George: (male or female) playing the keyboard
Other Musicians
Messengers
Gendarmes (police)
Porters

your word Teen Creative Writing Residency

2011-02-02T13:51:00.001-05:00

July 24 – August 6, 2011

Application Deadline: April 4, 2011

_____________________________________

Atlantic Center for the Arts’ your word Teen Creative Writing Residency is a one-of-a-kind, multi-genre summer writing residency that offers 9th through rising 12th grade writers workshops and mentorship by distinguished authors in poetry, fiction, and creative nonfiction/memoir, on the grounds of a breathtakingly beautiful ecological preserve.

your word Teen Creative Writing Residency will beheld from July 24 through Aug 6, 2011, offering 21 participants an extraordinary opportunity to explore and expand the power of their individual voices through writing workshops. The program will take place at Atlantic Center for the Arts, an artists’ community on the east coast of central Florida.

The Residency

Students will join three Master Writers-in-Residence, one in each of the following genres - Poetry, Fiction, and Creative Nonfiction/Memoir. Teens will have opportunities to explore each of the represented genres. Scheduled recreational activities include evening events with guest writers and readings, a trip to New Smyrna’s beaches, writing workshops, as well as movies and art workshops. Atlantic Center for the Arts’ Community Arts Manager will facilitate the program, and chaperones will be on-site 24-hours a day throughout the program. The residency provides mentorship by Master Writers as well as the opportunity to meet and interact with peers.

Admission

The selection process for your word Teen Creative Writing Residency is competitive. Atlantic Center for the Arts receives the applications, and the Master Artists-in-Residence provide the rankings that determine acceptance into the program. For application procedures, or to download an application form, visit us online

http://www.atlanticcenterforthearts.org/press/teen_creative_writting.html

Tuition

$1,295 for the residency includes instruction, accommodations, workshops, meals, and all activities. Scholarships for tuition and travel stipends are available on a limited basis.

Facilities & Housing

Atlantic Center for the Arts is located on 10 acres of pine and palmetto forest, representing the interaction between nature, environment and creativity. Nestled within a 67-acre ecological preserve, the campus is connected by raised boardwalks. Students will reside in two buildings containing 28 single occupancy housing units (4 handicap-accessible) furnished with double bed, private bathroom, work desk, small refrigerator, and linens. Atlantic Center’s award winning studio complex includes a dining hall, digital media lab, library, administration building, and a visitor center & gallery.

For more information, email Community Arts Manager, Sarah Higgins at shiggins@atlanticcenterforthearts.org,

phone 386.423.1753 or visit us online at

http://www.atlanticcenterforthearts.org/press/teen_creative_writting.html

SCAPIN auditions Feb 14 & 15, callbacks Feb. 17

2011-02-01T20:08:00.002-05:00

SPRING SHOW – SCAPIN (pronounced: skah-pin) adapted from Molière

By Bill Irwin, Mark O'Donnell, Molière

2/14 & 15 Auditions for SCAPIN

2/17 Callback auditions

2/28-5/11 Rehearsals for SCAPIN– Mon-Fri (including Spring Break)

5/12 & 5/13 SCAPIN performances

Tips for auditions: prepare a short monolog to perform – preferably memorized. We will also read scenes from the play. Come dressed in comfortable clothing and shoes that will allow unrestricted movement.

Latest update: Impossible Things eaten by SNOW!

2011-01-31T20:01:00.001-05:00

This afternoon the writers and directors for 6 IMPOSSIBLE THINGS held an emergency meeting. Because of the extensive cancellations due to weather conditions since the beginning of January, we are canceling the winter production.

Thank-you for all of your time and commitment to this project. We will keep you informed of plans to perform the plays later in the year.

The auditions for SCAPIN will be held on February 14th & 15th - with snow dates possible for the 16th, 17th & 18th if needed!

Perusal scripts are available from Ms. Gwin in the nurses' office. Please note that the show uses physical humor but will NOT be performed as a "clown" show. The clowning workshops were simply a way to begin an exploration of physical humor.

Hope to see you at the auditions!

Sarah Ruhl public talk 2/10 in Middletown

2011-01-31T11:37:00.002-05:00

Playwright Sarah Ruhl - author of EURYDICE - will be at Wesleyan University at 8 PM on February 10th to talk about her work in a 90-minute public appearance. She will be introduced by Professor David Jaffe.

(originally scheduled for 2/3 but moved due to weather)

http://newsletter.blogs.wesleyan.edu/2011/01/20/playwright-ruhl-begins-2-day-residency-at-wesleyan/?ref_homepage

6 IMPOSSIBLE THINGS - Playwright & Director EMERGENCY Meeting 1/31

2011-01-30T21:51:00.000-05:00

This weekend a couple of the writers and directors for 6 IMPOSSIBLE THINGS have contacted me because of the number of snow-days and postponements in the rehearsal schedule. Because this week's forecast is predicting 2 similar storms for this week as well, we will hold a meeting of the playwrights and directors for an emergency meeting after school Monday 1/31 at 2:20 to discuss our options regarding the upcoming show.

I hope to see you at this meeting--

--kato

Rehearsals begin today

2011-01-19T10:44:00.000-05:00

After delays for snow and ice -- at last we will hold a rehearsal!

Be sure to note which plays you are in and what days they rehearse.

Please be on time, and come prepared with your scripts and with a pencil.

Let's get to work!

Tuesday, January 18th 6 Impossible Things Starts!

2011-01-13T12:16:00.001-05:00

We've been delayed by the snow this week - but we will begin rehearsals for 6 IMPOSSIBLE THINGS BEFORE BREAKFAST on Tuesday, January 18th after-school. Check the casts and schedules noted below to confirm your rehearsal days.

6 Impossible Things Before Breakfast Cast Lists & Rehearsal Days

2011-01-11T09:09:00.001-05:00

6 Impossible Things Before Breakfast
Casts and Schedule

DIARY OF A BUG (Mondays)
By Tori Gordon
Directed by Abby Bora
Grace Chattin
David Tang

WHERE IDEAS GO WHEN WE”RE NOT LOOKING (Mondays)
By Tara Pealer
Directed by Tori Gordon
Forest Smith
CC Simmons
Katie Pealer

RIVER TAM BEATS UP EVERYBODY (Tuesdays)
By David Sindel
Directed by David Tang
Justin Carroll
Amanda Hutchinson
Tara Pealer
Jsana Strong
Grace Chattin
Nastasia Humphries

STRANGERS (Tuesdays)
By Justin Carroll
Directed by Nathan Watrous
Kyla Wingrove-Haughlan
Paige Gruskowski
Forest Smith
Abby Bora
Justin Carroll

SARAH ACKLEY'S TEST (Wednesdays)
By David Tang
Directed by Forest Smith
Nastasia Humphries
Nathan Watrous
Tori Gordon
Amanda Throop

THE CRACKER BARREL (Thursdays)
By Nathan Watrous
Directed by Amanda Hutchinson
Amber Coombe
Abby Bora
Ashley Giordano
Jenni Disco
Forest Smith
Tori Gordon
Tara Pealer
CC Simmons
David Sindel

TRUCK STOP (Thursdays)
By Kyla Rose Wingrove-Haugland
Directed by Justin Carroll
Hannah Posey
David Sindel
Laura Forte
David Tang
Paige Gruskowski

You've got an audition, now you need an acting resume

2011-01-08T12:00:00.004-05:00

A map is not the territory it represents, but if correct, it has a similar structure to the territory, which accounts for its usefulness. - Alfred Korzybski

Your resume is a lot like a map; it renders a representation of you through a clear and focused list of your accomplishments. Jam it full of too much detail and it becomes indiscernible, too little and it is useless. How do you create a concise document that creates a useful and detailed "map" of you as a student actor? Begin as soon as possible.

In her article Respect, Create, Learn, setting the stage in a new theater classroom (Dramatics Magazine) author and educator Gai Jones describes directing her students to track their theatrical accomplishments by logging details into a "“conflated” résumé":

Students often forget their past accomplishments until they are required to list them. This résumé should include every theatre performance, monologue, scene, original work, dance recital, and vocal performance they have completed in their lifetime in order from the most distant to the most current. They should also list every bit of theatre training they have undergone, every festival they have attended, and every honor and award bestowed upon them, no matter how mundane. This includes best smile, most improved, best runner, speller of the week, and so on. Encourage the students to type up a special skills section, specifying whether they are at the beginning, intermediate, or advanced level, and tell them to round out the résumé with accents, novelty talents, and athletic skills. Now they have a résumé that they can add to or hone down depending on their needs.

But what if you need to compile your resume for a task right away?

Begin by sitting down and listing what you've been doing in the theater. Start with roles and plays, note where and when they were performed, and who directed them if noteworthy (Ms. Carter in 4th grade may have been very nice, but wracking your brain over her name and researching the play in which you played an owl won't win you any admiration).

As a high school student it is best to include any roles you have performed with your school program, classes held at the school that you have taken, and perhaps reach back to middle-school productions if necessary, but your grammar-school work is best left off of the listings unless there is something exceptionally notable.

If you have performed any work with community or other groups outside of your school programs, these should be listed along with making note about where and when these events occurred. They serve to illustrate your willingness to pursue your goals as a theater artist beyond the easy reach of school programs.

Do you sing in a choir? Perform in other ways like public speaking? Are there other places that you have worked or volunteered in a public forum? These are all possibilities for inclusion on your resume.

Make several lists of the various categories that your work could be organized under. Examples include School Productions, Classwork, Community Productions, Professional Productions, Technical Theater, Volunteer Work, Awards, or other choices particular to your experiences.

The website Ace Your Audition lists several examples of beginner and student resumes, and has this to say about composing your page:

Keep it simple. You'll notice there's a lot of white space. That's okay. Just make sure it's well formatted and attractive to the eye. Make it look professional. [...] [A]ny experience is experience. Were you a spear holder in Hamlet at your high school? Were you Joseph in your church's Nativity play? Done any children's theatre? Put it all on your actor resume. Had any training? Write it down. Put it in bold so that it draws the eye. Training shows that you're serious. And there's always the chance that your auditors know your teachers.

You've made your lists, now look at the information and begin to organize it. What is the most important information you want the reviewers of your work to know? That goes near the top. Think about that map: what is the important information that is needed to include. You don't need to represent every tree on the road, you need to sort out the best information and make it concise but clear.

In his book The Actor's Audition (Vintage Original, 1990) theater director David Black describes the goal of a clear and well-organized resume:

The most important function of your résumé is to support the opinion of someone who has taken an interest in you. [...] If you do not have enough credits to fill up a résumé, list what you have done under the heading "Representative Roles." This allows you to put down parts you have performed in college, school, camp, and so on. Even roles you have studied or wish to perform can be listed under this heading. (pp. 94-5)

He cautions against excessive padding, or listing false credentials, "What may seem , in a moment of poetic license, to be harmless padding can come back to haunt you and might even cost you a job rather than get you one." (p. 94)

Remember that you are drawing a map -- creating an easy to follow, informative representation of your history in theater. That history will indicate your intent as a theater artist and serve to point toward your continued goals. Remember that the people requesting your resume are interested in learning more about you. Make that process as simple and straight-forward as possible.

Make a map that the people interested in your work can follow, a map that represents your experience, your common-sense, and your accomplishments thus far as a theater artist.

Break-a-leg!

For more information and samples online check out these resources:
Ace Your Audition

Respect, Create, Learn, setting the stage in a new theater classroom by Gai Jones

Or get some books:
The Actor's Audition by David Black

I GOT IN! The ultimate Guide for Acting and Musical Theatre! by Mary Anna Dennard

Auditions conclude January 10th

2011-01-08T09:48:00.003-05:00

Due to the cancellation of after-school activities on Friday, the final day of auditions for 6 IMPOSSIBLE THINGS BEFORE BREAKFAST will be held Monday, January 10th.

Six Impossible Things Before Breakfast auditions postponed!

2011-01-07T10:28:00.002-05:00

The second day of auditions for our winter show "Six Impossible Things Before Breakfast" scheduled for Friday, January 7 has been postponed until Monday, Jan. 11 after school in the LHS auditorium. Please come prepared to perform a short monologue.

Audition Tips and online Info

2011-01-04T20:30:00.000-05:00

Audition Techniques and Tips for Students Online

Want to know more about how to prepare for an audition -

Checkout these online resources as eHow:

Acting Audition Preparations

For our auditions it is a good idea to come prepared with a short, memorized monologue. Your piece could be anywhere from 30 seconds to 2 minutes in length. Checkout this monologue advice article on Ask.com all about Performing a Monologue.

How do you find a monologue to perform? Check out these tips on How to Pick a Monologue that Works.

And - of course - BREAK A LEG!

Standard Play Format

2011-01-01T20:15:00.002-05:00

For online information about standard play format you can download the industry standard from Samuel French:
FORMATTING GUIDELINES

You can also get advice from The Playwrights Muse.

Playwright/Director Meeting January 4

2011-01-01T20:08:00.000-05:00

There will be a Playwright/Director Meeting after school January 4th for 6 Impossible Things. We will be discussing the auditions and individuals' responsibilities for the production. Playwrights should bring any new works or rewrites to this meeting.

Who's this clown?

2010-12-13T11:47:00.000-05:00

Laughter is the shortest distance between two people.
-Victor Borge

Don't forget your NOSES for the 2nd Clown Workshop this THURSDAY 12/14!

the eHow of AUDITIONING!

2010-12-10T09:35:00.002-05:00

Want to know more about how to prepare for an audition? Checkout these online resources at eHow:

Acting Audition Preparations

For our auditions it is a good idea to come prepared with a short, memorized monologue. Your piece could be anywhere from 30 seconds to 2 minutes in length. Checkout this monologue advice article on Ask.com all about Performing a Monologue.

How do you find a monologue to perform? Check out these tips on How to Pick a Monologue that Works.

And - of course - BREAK A LEG!

AUDITIONS for 6 Impossible Things in January

2010-12-10T09:21:00.002-05:00

The AUDITIONS for 6 Impossible Things Before Breakfast will be held

Thursday, January 6th
& Friday January 7th

After school in the auditorium.

Prepare a monologue to perform. It is best if the monologue is memorized, but you may read from a prompt sheet if necessary. Be sure to rehearse the monologue by speaking it out-loud and reading through it many times before performing it.

Dress comfortably in loose fitting clothing that will allow you to move easily. If you have long hair, please have it tied back so that it does not cover your face.

Arrive on time and be prepared to stay until the late-bus.

Last Drama Week of 2010!

2010-12-10T09:09:00.001-05:00

The two meetings set for this coming week will be the final Drama Meetings of 2010. Where does the time go?

TUESDAY 12/14 - 6 Impossible Things Playwright/Director meeting.

We will continue the work of last week by reading plays, discussing them, and brainstorming about other possibilities for the show. Anyone interested in writing r directing is invited to attend.

THURSDAY 12/16 - Clowning Workshop Part Deux.

More clowning exercises, this time more complex and more group work. Come dressed comfortably -- AND BRING YOUR NOSES!

Clowning Workshop December 9th

2010-12-06T10:47:00.000-05:00

After-school on Thursday 12/9 we will be holding our first clowning workshop. This series of workshops is designed to prepare students for the spring production of SCAPIN by introducing the concepts of physical comedy.

Come ready to move around - so wear comfortable clothing and sneakers or dance shoes.

FYI: These workshops will give participants a leg-up come audition-time for SCAPIN in January.

6 Impossible Things Playwright/Director Meeting 12/7

2010-12-06T10:42:00.000-05:00

Playwrights and Directors will meet after-school on Tuesday 12/7 in the auditorium. Playwrights -- bring your writing projects! We'll be discussing the schedule, the goals of the project, and reading thru the new work together.

Dec. 2 Clowning Workshop Postponed until Dec. 9

2010-12-01T10:06:00.003-05:00

The clowning workshop planned for Thursday, Dec. 2 has been postponed until Thursday, Dec. 9 after school. Anyone planning on auditioning for the spring play, Scapin, should plan to attend this workshop. Scapin calls for a lot of physical comedy and these workshops will help you learn how to improve your pratt falls! There will be 3 workshops in all so come on Dec. 9 and be prepared to do some moving!

Tuesday's 11/30 Playwright/Director Meeting rescheduled

2010-11-29T15:56:00.000-05:00

The 6 Impossible Things Before Breakfast Playwright/Director Meeting scheduled for Tuesday, November 30 is rescheduled for Tuesday 12/7 after school.

If you have been working on a play and/or are interested in directing, please get in touch with Nurse Gwin to sign-up this week.

Eurydice DVD's available

2010-11-21T17:51:00.003-05:00

DVD's of both nights of Eurydice are available. Just bring $3 to Mrs. Gwin in the Nurse's Office or call 860-464-8940 and order yours today.

Read it on the LedyardPatch - Eurydice ROCKS!

2010-11-20T23:00:00.000-05:00

'Eurydice' Opens Friday to Appreciative Audience

Challenging Production Demonstrates Range, Talents of LHS Drama

By Bill Thorndike

"Eurydice," a contemporary adaptation of an ancient story, opened Friday to an appreciative audience, and demonstrated the range and considerable talents of the Ledyard High School Drama Club.

read the whole article by clicking here.

Friday, November 19th is Alumni Night

2010-11-18T13:05:00.000-05:00

All LHS Drama Alums are invited to come see EURYDICE Friday, November 19th and get in for student admission price, PLUS put your name in for two alumni-exclusive give-aways!

Show starts at 7 PM.

Hope to see you!

EURYDICE -- Nov. 19 & 20 at 7 PM

2010-11-18T12:49:00.002-05:00

November 19 & 20, 2010
7 PM Tickets at the door
$4 students, $6 Adults, $10 Patrons

Friday, November 19th is LHS Drama Alumni Night
LHS Drama Alums get in for the student price
and special drawings for prizes for all LHS Drama Alums.

The classic myth of Orpheus reimagined through the eyes of its heroine Eurydice. Dying too young on her wedding day, Eurydice must journey to the underworld, where she reunites with her father and struggles to remember her lost love. With contemporary characters, ingenious plot twists, and breathtaking visual effects, the play is a fresh look at a timeless love story.

EURYDICE Production Week!

2010-11-12T09:07:00.002-05:00

Sat. 11/13 10:00 - 2:30 Stage- set-up – full crew and anyone who can be here!

WEEK 9 – PRODUCTION WEEK
Mon. 11/15 2:20-6:00 Tech Rehearsal – Full Crew @ 2:20 – Full Company @ 3:30 (no costumes) Tues. 11/16 2:30-6:00 Run thru the show Full Company
Wed. 11/17 6:00-9:30 Full-Dress Rehearsal – 6 PM call – Full Company
Thur, 11/18 6:00-10:00 Final Dress Rehearsal – 6 PM call – Full Company
Fri. 11/19 6:00-10:00 Opening Performance – 6 PM call – Full Company
Sat. 11/20 6:00-10:30 Final Performance – 6 PM call – FULL COMPANY
stay after to strike set & clean-up spaces

EURYDICE FINAL 3 WEEKS SCHEDULE (revised 10/28/10)

2010-10-31T19:15:00.001-04:00

EURYDICE FINAL 3 WEEKS SCHEDULE (revised 10/28/10)

WEEK 7
Mon. 11/1 2:30-3:50 Eurydice, NI Man
Tues. 11/2 2:30-3:50 Eurydice, Father, 3 Stones, LoU
Wed. 11/3 2:30-3:50 Eurydice & Orpheus
Thur, 11/4 2:30-3:50 Full Company & Crew (everyone in cast & crew)
Fri. 11/5 2:30-3:45 Playwright Meeting
Sat. 11/6 10:00-2:00 Set Construction/Painting & Costumes

WEEK 8
Mon. 11/8 2:30-3:50 Eurydice, Father, NI Man/LoU
Tues. 11/9 2:30-3:50 Full Company & Crew (everyone in cast & crew)
Wed. 11/10 2:30-3:50 Eurydice, Orpheus
Thur, 11/11 2:30-3:50 No School
Fri. 11/12 12:30-3:45 Crew – Stage set-up & Tech

Sat. 11/13 10:00 - 2:30 Stage- set-up – full crew and anyone who can be here!

WEEK 9 – PRODUCTION WEEK
Mon. 11/15 2:20-6:00 Tech Rehearsal – Full Crew @ 2:20 –
Full Company @ 3:30 (no costumes)
Tues. 11/16 2:30-6:00 Run thru the show Full Company
Wed. 11/17 6:00-9:30 Full-Dress Rehearsal – 6 PM call – Full Company
Thur, 11/18 6:00-10:00 Final Dress Rehearsal – 6 PM call – Full Company
Fri. 11/19 6:00-10:00 Opening Performance – 6 PM call – Full Company
Sat. 11/20 6:00-10:30 Final Performance – 6 PM call – FULL COMPANY
stay after to strike set & clean-up spaces

2010-10-28T21:05:00.001-04:00

Follow this link to see pictures of rehearsals of Eurydice!

http://www.flickr.com/photos/46705787@N08/

Watch for the showcase next week!

Week 6 Eurydice Rehearsal Schedule

2010-10-25T00:50:00.001-04:00

Mon. 10/25 2:30-3:50 Eurydice, LoU, Father
Tues. 10/26 2:30-3:50 Full Company (everyone in cast)
Wed. 10/27 12:30-2:00 Eurydice, & Orpheus
Thur, 10/28 2:30-3:50 Eurydice, Father, 3 Stones, LoU
Fri. 10/29 2:30-3:45 Eurydice & Father
Sat. 10/30 10:00-2:00 Set Construction/Painting & Costumes

WEEK 5 Eurydice Rehearsal Info

2010-10-17T08:54:00.003-04:00

Mon. 10/18 2:30-3:50 Eurydice & Orpheus & NI Man
Tues. 10/19 2:30-3:50 Full Company (everyone in cast)
Wed. 10/20 2:30-3:50 Eurydice, & Father
Thur, 10/21 2:30-3:50 Eurydice, Father, 3 Stones, LoU
Fri. 10/22 2:30-3:45 Eurydice & NI Man
*Sat. 10/23 - No work today

CREW! This SATURDAY 10/16 Crew Clean-up & Building

2010-10-13T11:56:00.001-04:00

This Saturday we will meet to clean-up the backstage area and put a few set pieces together. We will start at 10 AM and go until about 2 PM.

Wear comfortable clothes, bring gloves, water, a hammer and a drill if you have one.

Come in through the backstage door on the side of the building near Gallup Hill Road.

This FRIDAY 10/15 - Playwrights Meet!

2010-10-13T10:32:00.003-04:00

Our first playwrights Workshop will be help this Friday. Bring a pen and be ready to write!

Eurydice Schedule Week 4

2010-10-11T19:44:00.003-04:00

WEEK 4
Tues. 10/12 2:30-3:50 Full Company (everyone in cast)
Wed. 10/13 2:30-3:50 Eurydice, & Father
Thur, 10/14 2:30-3:50 Eurydice, Father, 3 Stones, LoU
Fri. 10/15 2:30-3:45 Playwright Workshop Winter Show (SOS)
Sat. 10/16 10:00-2:00 Clean-up and begin set construction

Drama Crew Meeting FRIDAY 10/8

2010-10-05T13:16:00.002-04:00

There will be a meeting of the LHS Drama Tech & Stage Crew this Friday 10/8 after school. The meeting will take about 30 minutes - and then we will be doing some clean-up work backstage. Plan to stay and help. We will adjourn in time for the late-bus. Bring a pair of work gloves and wear comfortable clothing that will allow for toting set pieces around.

If you cannot make this meeting let me know at least ONE day in advance because we will have to set a separate time for you to meet with us. If I do not hear from you and you do not come to the meeting I will assume that you are no longer interested or available to be on the crew for the fall show.

Also - if you have friends that did not sign-up at auditions, but might like to come check it out, tell them to come meet with us too.

See you Friday!

WEEK 3 Eurydice Rehearsal Info

2010-10-01T12:44:00.001-04:00

WEEK 3
Mon. 10/4 2:30-3:50 Eurydice & Orpheus & NI Man
Tues. 10/5 2:30-3:50 Full Company (everyone in cast) *
Wed. 10/6 2:30-3:50 Eurydice, & Father
Thur, 10/7 2:30-3:50 Eurydice, Father, 3 Stones, LoU
Fri. 10/8 CREW MEETING* 2:30 - 3; and 2:30-3:45 Eurydice & Father

PLEASE NOTE:

*The Tuesday FULL COMPANY rehearsal will feature a lot of movement. Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing, athletic shoes, and bring a yoga mat or large towel for floor exercises. Eurydice & Father should be off-book for Second Movement, Scene 1.

** For Thursday's rehearsal - the 3 Stones will be working-off book - other stones should come prepared with much of the dialogue learned as well.

***the Crew Meeting will be held Friday 10/8 from 2:30 to 3:00. We will all meet, discuss the design demands for the show, and plans for the crew schedule. If you're on the crew, come to this meeting.

6 Impossible Things - meeting on Friday 10/1

2010-09-29T09:56:00.002-04:00

We're holding an info & sign-up meeting after school for playwrights and directors interested in working on the Winter Show New Play Fest called 6 Impossible Things Before Breakfast.

Here's how it will work:

The plays will be short – 3 to 10 minutes in length. There will be six of them. In addition, there will be monologues and short connected sketches that will intersperse the primary pieces. The total running time for the show will be 70 minutes, performed without an intermission.

All of the works will explore the theme “Impossibility.” Playwrights are required to attend the two workshops on Oct.15th & Nov. 5th. Bring paper and pens to these workshops because we will be writing and reading works-in-progress.

The end goal is two-fold: to have a fun, theatrical show; and to have a performance text that we will submit to publishers. If published all royalties will go to Ledyard Drama to contribute to the financial stability and future of the club after we have gone.

THE VIEWPOINTS

2010-09-28T18:57:00.001-04:00

During today's rehearsal we referred to Veiwpoints and worked through some of the introductory exercises. To learn more about them be sure to explore the links on this page.

VIEWPOINTS
The Viewpoints is a technique of improvisation that grew out of the post-modern dance world. It was first articulated by choreographer Mary Overlie who broke down the two dominant issues performers deal with - time and space - into six categories. She called her approach, the Six Viewpoints. Since that time, Artistic Director Anne Bogart and SITI Company have expanded her notions and adapted them for actors. The Viewpoints allows a group of actors to function together spontaneously and intuitively and to generate bold, theatrical work quickly. It develops flexibility, articulation, and strength in movement and makes ensemble playing really possible.

WEEK 2 Eurydice Rehearsal Info

2010-09-24T20:34:00.002-04:00

Mon. 9/27 2:30-3:50 Eurydice & Orpheus
Tues. 9/28 2:30-3:50 Full Company (everyone in cast) - Dress comfortably!
Wed. 9/29 2:30-3:50 Eurydice, & Father
Thur, 9/30 2:30-3:50 Eurydice, 3 Stones, LoU
Fri. 10/1 2:30-3:45 Playwright/Director Info Meeting for Winter Show (SOS)

For the Tuesday rehearsal be sure to wear loose-fitting comfortable clothing that you can move easily in. We will be doing a lot of movement - and some of it will be ON THE FLOOR. Bring a yoga mat or a beach towel if you like for the floor exercises.

9/20 Rehearsal RESCHEDULED for 9/21

2010-09-20T11:08:00.001-04:00

The read-through of EURYDICE with the full cast crew has been rescheduled for Tuesday, September 21. Please contact Kato or Nurse Gwin if you are unable to attend.

There will be no rehearsal Monday, September 20.

EURYDICE rehearsal schedule WEEK 1

2010-09-19T18:17:00.000-04:00

Week 1

Mon. 2:30-3:50 Read-thru of play -- FULL COMPANY AND CREW
Tues. 2:30-3:50 Table-work Eurydice, Father, 3 Stones, Nasty Man
Wed. 12:30-3:00 Table-work Eurydice, Orpheus, Father
Thurs. 2:30-3:50 Table-work Eurydice, Orpheus, Father, 3 Stones, Lord of the Underworld

What about studying theater after high school?

2010-09-18T13:38:00.001-04:00

Mary Anna Dennard, the author of “I Got In!: The Ultimate College Audition Guide for Acting and Musical Theater,” answered readers’ questions about auditioning, getting the right head shot and other topics.

One answer to a question about whether a college program could possibly prepare you for the "real" arts world, or be useful at all - she has this to say:

I respectfully disagree. First of all, we are talking about getting an education while learning your craft. College is one of the most opportune places to do both. Second, not all conservatories are created equally. Carnegie Mellon, Cincinnati Conservatory, Texas State, DePaul, Pace University, Boston Conservatory, the American Conservatory Theater, Juilliard are all considered conservatories or conservatory-style programs in that their training is rigorous and intense with little or no coursework in general education and electives. However, each of these offers direct relationships with industry professionals. I was a casting director for film and television for 15 years, and I had relationships with and respect for these institutions.

Many of these programs offer substantial scholarships, and even full rides to those who qualify. A majority of the students I coach do get substantial financial aid. The enormous price tag you speak of might actually be the same cost as any typical four-year liberal arts degree. Texas State’s tuition for its musical theater B.F.A. students is $3,700 per semester! And that applies even for out-of-state students.
As far as preparing students for a profession, there are certainly no guarantees, and the families and students I coach understand the liabilities inherent in such a tenuous occupation. But the schools do make every effort to develop intelligent artists as well as introduce them into the professional world.
...
So I will sum it up this way:
1. Getting a college degree is valuable.
2. Learning your craft is essential.
3. A performing arts undergraduate degree is worthwhile no matter what career one ultimately decides upon.

You can read the whole blog Q&A at the NYTimes Artbeat online.

Technically Speaking

2010-09-18T11:43:00.005-04:00

For those of you with nagging questions regarding backstage tasks and behind the scenes work, here are a few links to online resources that may shed some light on your questions:

For an interesting and concise page devoted to answering questions about what a Stage Manager does checkout How to Become a Good Stage Manager.

For more stage managing tips check-out Managing the Show.

For a brief primer on set construction see this page on Wikipedia - loaded with lots of links of its own.

Want to know more about props? Check out The Prop Shop.

For tips on making the sets look great go to Painting the Scene.

What would the theater be without lights? Here's an article that will get you thinking about how to approach a script and enhance the mood with proper lighting beginning with A Dark and Stormy Night.

And to sound in-the-know and speak the speech of backstage -- check out this collected Glossary of Theater Terms.

Be sure to share any favorite informational links that you may come across for helping tech a high school show.

FYI: Classes at Long Wharf in New Haven Fall 2010

2010-09-16T18:19:00.001-04:00

There are classes and opportunities for additional training in our community and throughout Connecticut. Here are two of the classes offered this fall at The Long Wharf Theatre in New Haven:

Monologue Audition Workshop (Grades 9-12)
School is back in session! We all know what that means—homework, clubs, late nights writing papers, dances, school plays, and college auditions. Long Wharf Theatre is back with another Audition Workshop to help you hone your skills to complete your audition package and strengthen your acting technique.

Mondays 5:30-7:00, October 18 – November 15, $195

Adult Acting Level 1
Investigate your individual and authentic voice for acting! Using Anne Bogart's Viewpoints Technique we will physically delve into concepts of space and time as it pertains to environment and our place in it. Using the Stanislavski Acting Technique we will investigate scenes from masters such as Williams, Miller, and Odets, exploring how to listen, respond, and actively engage with the text and each other. Some acting experience is required.

October 23 – November 20, Saturdays 10:00-12:00, $225

Private Acting Lessons, by appointment

For additional information or to register today, call Anne DiMartino at 203-772-8271, email annie.dimartino@longwharf.org or mail in registration form.

Thanks to EVERYONE

2010-09-15T18:39:00.001-04:00

For everyone who put their egos on the line at auditions, overcame nervousness and fear, and who just plain showed-up to show us what you've got --

THANK YOU!

There are only so many big roles to go around -- but we look forward to working with every one of you -- no matter how large or small the part may be. Without an ensemble there is no show.

Also - there will be many more opportunities for large and small things throughout the year.

See you all on Monday after school for the read thru of the play!

EURYDICE Cast & Crew

2010-09-15T18:29:00.003-04:00

EURYDICE

by Sarah Ruhl

Cast:

EURYDICE - Laura Forte

ORPHEUS – David Tang

EURYDICE’S FATHER – Justin Carroll

NASTY INTERESTING MAN/LORD OF THE UNDERWORLD – Nathan Watrous

LOUD STONE – Tori Gordon

BIG STONE – Paige Gruszkowski

LITTLE STONE – Cole Poth

CHORUS OF STONES – Isabel Archibald, Melissa Billing, Abby Bora, Amber Coombe, Jenni Disco, Jsana Strong, Kyla Wingrove-Haugland

Understudies:

Eurydice Understudy: Paige Gruszkowski

Orpheus & Man & Lord of UW Understudy: Forest Smith

Father Understudy: Kyla Wingrove-Haugland

3 Stones Understudies: Amber Coombe & Abby Bora

Stage Crew & Tech:

Stage Manager: Bodhi Poth

Assistant Stage Manager: Amanda Hutchinson

Lighting: Forest Smith, Angie Castiblanco, Joseph Gonzalez

Sound Crew/Design: James Richmond, Bodhi Poth

Props: Zach Hanna

Set Painting & Construction: Savannah Bedard, Angie Castiblanco, Joseph Gonzalez, Faith Bacon

Costumes: Savannah Bedard, Angie Castiblanco, Faith Bacon

Stage Crew: Savannah Bedard, Angie Castiblanco, Faith Bacon

Some important dates:

9/20-11/18 Rehearsals for EURYDICE – Mon-Thurs (some Fridays)

First week’s schedule (some changes - be sure to read!)

Mon. 9/20 Read the play – ENTIRE CAST AND CREW

Tues. 9/21 Table-work – Eurydice, Father, 3 Stones, Nasty Man

Wed. 9/22 Table-work – Eurydice, Orpheus, Father

Thur, 9/23 Table-work - Eurydice, Orpheus, Father, 3 Stones, Lord of Underworld

About EURYDICE

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A retelling of the myth of Orpheus in modern times. At the wedding of Eurydice and Orpheus, Eurydice goes off by herself to get some water. Although they love each other, they are not the most alike of couples. She is met by a mysterious man who claims to have a letter from her father, and when she follows him to his apartment, she ends up in Hades, the realm of the dead. Like in the original story, Orpheus then travels to Hades to rescue her. In Hades, Eurydice does meet her father, and she becomes torn between the desire to stay with her father and the desire to go back to Orpheus. Her conversations with her father in Hades are lightened by the sort of Greek chorus-esque chiming of three stones. In the end, Orpheus comes to rescue her, and as in the myth. The Lord of the Underworld allows him to take her on the condition that he cannot look back at her as they climb out of Hades. However, as they leave Hades, Eurydice cries out, and Orpheus looks back. As promised by the Lord of the Underworld, she fades away, heading back to Hades.

CAST:

Eurydice - lead

Orpheus - lead

Eurydice's Father lead

Loud Stone spoken

Little Stone spoken

Big Stone spoken

Chorus of Stones (many)

Nasty Interesting Man - supporting

Lord of the Underworld - supporting

Audition Techniques and Tips for Students Online

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Become a fan of LHS Drama on Facebook

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Ledyard High School Drama is on Facebook!

Become a fan today.

You can also stay up-to-date about the fall production EURYDICE on FB too.

Things to Know for 2010/2011 LHS Drama

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IMPORTANT DATES:

Dates may change – so it’s a good idea to always confirm events

BTW- it’s YOUR job to know the schedule & be on time.

FALL SHOW – EURYDICE by Sarah Ruhl

9/14 & 9/15 Auditions for EURYDICE

9/20-11/18 Rehearsals for EURYDICE – Mon-Thurs (some Fridays)

11/19 & 11/20 EURYDICE production dates

WINTER SHOW – Short Play Festival of new works:

SIX IMPOSSIBLE THINGS BEFORE BREAKFAST

10/1 Playwright sign-up and workshop

10/ 15 & 11/5 Playwright workshops – interested playwrights MUST attend

11/30 Playwright & Director Meeting

12/7 Production and Development meeting

12/13 & 14 Auditions

12/15 BIG MEETING & Read-thrus – EVERYONE ATTENDS

1/10-2/9 Rehearsals Mon-Fri

2/10 & 2/11 Performance

SPRING SHOW – SCAPIN adapted from Molière

By Bill Irwin, Mark O'Donnell, Molière

Dec. 2, 9, 16 Clowning workshops

1/24 & 1/25 Auditions for SCAPIN

2/14-5/11 Rehearsals for SCAPIN– Mon-Fri (including Spring Break)

5/12 & 5/13 SCAPIN performances

The Spring Show 2010!

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All are encouraged to check out the facebook page "Help Me Obi-Wan Kenobi" to learn more about the spring show. All are welcome to participate!!!

SOS and Zombies DVD's available!

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DVD's of SOS and Zombies 2010 are available. Just bring $3 to Mrs. Gwin in the Nurse's Office and she will burn you a copy.

Ledyard High School Drama

a few final shots from rehearsal

Some more rehearsal shots

Rehearsal shots

Show week is here!

Marriage of Bette and Boo at Waterford High School

Plan Now to attend!!

Congratulations cast of Spoon River Anthology

Here we go!

SCAPIN - Thursday & Friday May 12 & 13 at 7 PM

O'Neill Theater Center Junior Cabaret Program - 5/17 auditions

Saturday, May 7 - Final Tech Day plus PIZZA!

LHS Drama Student Kyla Wingrove-Haugland will be at O'Neill Festival this May

Set painting and construction continues Saturday 4/30 & 5/7

Work Crew Sign-Up for SCAPIN

Scapin April/May Rehearsal Schedule

Set Construction & Painting continues this Saturday 4/2

We will be meeting from 10 to 1 PM this Saturday 4/2/11 in the auditorium to continue construction of the Scapin set and begin painting. If you can come lend a hand for a couple of hours, we would love to see you.

Dress for work - shoes that cover toes, and clothes that can get dirty. If you have work gloves or hand tools like a hammer or power drill, bring those too.

See you!

Rehearsal Wednesday March 30th is Canceled

No set building this Saturday

Set Construction starts this 3/11

On Saturday 3/11 we will begin set construction and costume search! We're meeting from 10 AM to 1 PM in the LHS Auditorium for anyone who wants to bring a hammer, a portable drill, or other implements of destruction and lend a hand!

SCAPIN revised rehearsal schedule

SCAPIN rehearsal info for 2/23 thru 3/2

The SCAPIN Cast is Announced!

Bill Irwin- some short videos worth viewing

Young Plawights Festival at Eugene O'Neill Theater Center

About SCAPIN

Bill Irwin and Mark O'Donnell, adapted from Molière

your word Teen Creative Writing Residency

SCAPIN auditions Feb 14 & 15, callbacks Feb. 17

Latest update: Impossible Things eaten by SNOW!

Sarah Ruhl public talk 2/10 in Middletown

Playwright Sarah Ruhl - author of EURYDICE - will be at Wesleyan University at 8 PM on February 10th to talk about her work in a 90-minute public appearance. She will be introduced by Professor David Jaffe.

(originally scheduled for 2/3 but moved due to weather)

http://newsletter.blogs.wesleyan.edu/2011/01/20/playwright-ruhl-begins-2-day-residency-at-wesleyan/?ref_homepage

6 IMPOSSIBLE THINGS - Playwright & Director EMERGENCY Meeting 1/31

Rehearsals begin today

Tuesday, January 18th 6 Impossible Things Starts!

6 Impossible Things Before Breakfast Cast Lists & Rehearsal Days

You've got an audition, now you need an acting resume

Auditions conclude January 10th

Six Impossible Things Before Breakfast auditions postponed!

Audition Tips and online Info

Audition Techniques and Tips for Students Online

Standard Play Format

Playwright/Director Meeting January 4

Who's this clown?

the eHow of AUDITIONING!

AUDITIONS for 6 Impossible Things in January

Last Drama Week of 2010!

Clowning Workshop December 9th

6 Impossible Things Playwright/Director Meeting 12/7

Dec. 2 Clowning Workshop Postponed until Dec. 9

Tuesday's 11/30 Playwright/Director Meeting rescheduled

Eurydice DVD's available

Read it on the LedyardPatch - Eurydice ROCKS!

'Eurydice' Opens Friday to Appreciative Audience

Friday, November 19th is Alumni Night

EURYDICE -- Nov. 19 & 20 at 7 PM

EURYDICE Production Week!

EURYDICE FINAL 3 WEEKS SCHEDULE (revised 10/28/10)

Week 6 Eurydice Rehearsal Schedule

Mon. 10/25 2:30-3:50 Eurydice, LoU, FatherTues. 10/26 2:30-3:50 Full Company (everyone in cast) Wed. 10/27 12:30-2:00 Eurydice, & OrpheusThur, 10/28 2:30-3:50 Eurydice, Father, 3 Stones, LoUFri. 10/29 2:30-3:45 Eurydice & FatherSat. 10/30 10:00-2:00 Set Construction/Painting & Costumes

WEEK 5 Eurydice Rehearsal Info

Mon. 10/18 2:30-3:50 Eurydice & Orpheus & NI ManTues. 10/19 2:30-3:50 Full Company (everyone in cast) Wed. 10/20 2:30-3:50 Eurydice, & FatherThur, 10/21 2:30-3:50 Eurydice, Father, 3 Stones, LoUFri. 10/22 2:30-3:45 Eurydice & NI Man*Sat. 10/23 - No work today

CREW! This SATURDAY 10/16 Crew Clean-up & Building

This FRIDAY 10/15 - Playwrights Meet!

Eurydice Schedule Week 4

WEEK 4Tues. 10/12 2:30-3:50 Full Company (everyone in cast) Wed. 10/13 2:30-3:50 Eurydice, & FatherThur, 10/14 2:30-3:50 Eurydice, Father, 3 Stones, LoUFri. 10/15 2:30-3:45 Playwright Workshop Winter Show (SOS)Sat. 10/16 10:00-2:00 Clean-up and begin set construction

Drama Crew Meeting FRIDAY 10/8

WEEK 3 Eurydice Rehearsal Info

WEEK 3Mon. 10/4 2:30-3:50 Eurydice & Orpheus & NI ManTues. 10/5 2:30-3:50 Full Company (everyone in cast) *Wed. 10/6 2:30-3:50 Eurydice, & FatherThur, 10/7 2:30-3:50 Eurydice, Father, 3 Stones, LoU**Fri. 10/8 CREW MEETING*** 2:30 - 3; and 2:30-3:45 Eurydice & Father

PLEASE NOTE:

*The Tuesday FULL COMPANY rehearsal will feature a lot of movement. Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing, athletic shoes, and bring a yoga mat or large towel for floor exercises. Eurydice & Father should be off-book for Second Movement, Scene 1.

** For Thursday's rehearsal - the 3 Stones will be working-off book - other stones should come prepared with much of the dialogue learned as well.

***the Crew Meeting will be held Friday 10/8 from 2:30 to 3:00. We will all meet, discuss the design demands for the show, and plans for the crew schedule. If you're on the crew, come to this meeting.

6 Impossible Things - meeting on Friday 10/1

Mon. 10/25 2:30-3:50 Eurydice, LoU, Father
Tues. 10/26 2:30-3:50 Full Company (everyone in cast)
Wed. 10/27 12:30-2:00 Eurydice, & Orpheus
Thur, 10/28 2:30-3:50 Eurydice, Father, 3 Stones, LoU
Fri. 10/29 2:30-3:45 Eurydice & Father
Sat. 10/30 10:00-2:00 Set Construction/Painting & Costumes

Mon. 10/18 2:30-3:50 Eurydice & Orpheus & NI Man
Tues. 10/19 2:30-3:50 Full Company (everyone in cast)
Wed. 10/20 2:30-3:50 Eurydice, & Father
Thur, 10/21 2:30-3:50 Eurydice, Father, 3 Stones, LoU
Fri. 10/22 2:30-3:45 Eurydice & NI Man
*Sat. 10/23 - No work today

WEEK 4
Tues. 10/12 2:30-3:50 Full Company (everyone in cast)
Wed. 10/13 2:30-3:50 Eurydice, & Father
Thur, 10/14 2:30-3:50 Eurydice, Father, 3 Stones, LoU
Fri. 10/15 2:30-3:45 Playwright Workshop Winter Show (SOS)
Sat. 10/16 10:00-2:00 Clean-up and begin set construction

WEEK 3
Mon. 10/4 2:30-3:50 Eurydice & Orpheus & NI Man
Tues. 10/5 2:30-3:50 Full Company (everyone in cast) *
Wed. 10/6 2:30-3:50 Eurydice, & Father
Thur, 10/7 2:30-3:50 Eurydice, Father, 3 Stones, LoU
Fri. 10/8 CREW MEETING* 2:30 - 3; and 2:30-3:45 Eurydice & Father