FOX21 previews 'Sweeney Todd'

Check out the FOX21 interview with Sweeney Todd cast members, Marco Robinson and Ericka Gasper, previewing the musical comedy thriller.

Click here to view the interview.

'Sweeney Todd' video clips

The FAC Theatre Company's production of Sweeney Todd opens tomorrow, and tickets are selling fast. We just uploaded this preview video footage of the show:

Denver Post: Ten plays to watch this winter

In last Sunday's Denver Post, theatre critic John Moore listed his "10 Plays to Watch" and include the Fine Arts Center Theatre Company's production of Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street, (which opens Jan. 22) writing in part:

The intrigue: The Fine Arts Center presents some of the biggest and best musicals in Colorado. "Sweeney Todd" follows ambitious stagings of "Into the Woods" and "Sunday in the Park with George." It stars Alan Osburn, who played Javert in Broadway's "Les Miserables."

Read the complete story here.

Cast Announced for Sweeney Todd

Casting has been announced for Stephen Sondheim’s Tony Award winning musical comedy thriller which opens at the Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center Theatre Company on January 22, 2010.

Starring in the role of Sweeney Todd will be Alan Osburn (seen as Inspector Javert on Broadway and the National Touring Companies of Les Miserables) and performing the role of Mrs. Lovett is Eryn Carmen (Mrs. Potts in the recording breaking FACTC production of Beauty and the Beast).

Rounding out the cast will be Sammy Gleason (Beauty and the Beast, A Christmas Survival Guide) as Tobias, Marco Robinson (Eugene Morris Jerome in Brighton Beach Memoirs, Biloxi Blues, and Broadway Bound) as Anthony, Ericka Gasper (Laurey in Oklahoma and the flying Ghost of Christmas Past in A Christmas Carol) as Johanna, Thaddeus Valdez (last seen as Tito Morelli in Lend Me A Tenor) as Judge Turpin, the Beggar Woman is played by Sally Lewis Hybl (Marion Paroo/Music Man, Cinderella/Into the Woods), Skip Cockran (Mendel, Falsettos) as Beadle and Ken Robinson (Malcolm, Full Monty) as Pirelli.

The talented twelve member ensemble includes Aimee Carlisle, Natalie Jensen, Jen Lennon, Kathleen Malloy, Armour Ratcliffe, Carmen Vreeman, Brantley Scott Haines, Jonathan Herrara, Jesse Iacovetto, Joe Kinnett, Cory Moosman and Patrick Yuckman.

Composer/lyricist Stephen Sondheim, and book writer Hugh Wheeler, brilliantly adapted Christopher Bond’s play Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street. Reinventing the tragic tale of Benjamin Barker, barber turned butcher. Winner of eight Tony Awards, including Best Musical, Best Score, Best Book of a Musical, Best Director of a Musical, Best Actor in a Musical, and Best Actress (Angela Lansbury) in a Musical.

The production will be directed by Alan Osburn. Musical Director Roberta Jacyshyn will also serve as conductor. Set design by Christopher L. Sheley, costume design by Nicole Harrison, lighting design Holly Anne Rawls, props design by Jessica Rose, sound design by Bret Christopherson, and wigs by Diana Ben Kiki. The production stage manager is Dorothy Heedt.

NOICE: This production of Sweeney Todd, playing from January 22 through February 14, contains graphic violence, adult situations, profanity, and is not suitable for those under the age of 17 or for anyone who is easily offended.

Tickets and Performance Schedule
Thursdays at 7:30 pm and Sunday at 2:00 pm
FAC Members: 26.00
Non Members: 31.00
Fridays and Saturdays at 8:00 pm
FAC Members: 30.00
Non Members: 35.00

Tickets for this production are going fast - Call the FAC Box Office at 719-634-5583 to reserve your seats.

Get $10 off final two performances of 'A Christmas Survival Guide' with donation

The final two performances of the Fine Arts Center Theatre Company’s production of A Christmas Survival Guide will benefit two outstanding organizations: the Southern Colorado Aids Project (S-CAP) and Care and Share.

By bringing in assorted hygiene products (to benefit S-CAP) or canned food (to benefit Care & Share) audience members will receive $10.00 off the ticket price to the 7:30 p.m. performances on Tuesday, Dec. 22, and Wednesday, Dec. 23 at the Fine Arts Center, located at 30 W. Dale Street in Colorado Springs.

S-CAP: Bar soap, shampoo, conditioner, shaving cream, razors, deodorant, foot powder, tooth brushes, tooth paste, dental floss, mouth wash and other personal hygiene products.

Care and Share: Canned meat and tuna, canned tomato products, boxed pasta, canned meals (chili, etc.) canned fruits and vegetables, canned and bagged beans, canned soup, peanut butter and canned milk.

Patron’s who cannot attend A Christmas Survival Guide, but would still like to give to these exceptional organizations can bring hygiene products and/or canned goods to the Fine Arts Center and receive a $10.00 off coupon to any of the remaining shows in the 2009-2010 season. Please note that only one coupon per family is permitted.

For more then 20 years, the Southern Colorado AIDS Project has provided comprehensive and individualized care to men, women and children in southern Colorado who are living with HIV/AIDS. S-CAP provides specific programs and services to over 1,200 people residing in a 25-county area of southern Colorado. S-CAP is a member of the Pikes Peak United Way.

Care and Share Food Bank for Southern Colorado is the region’s largest hunger-relief organization. As southern Colorado's regional distribution hub for locally and nationally donated and purchased food, Care and Share provides food to more than 400 member agencies (soup kitchens, food pantries, community centers and more), who serve hundreds of thousands of people in need.

For more information, please contact the FAC Box Office at 719.634.5583.

Gazette: A musical tribute for Tony Babin

The Gazette's T.D. Mobley-Martinez, wrote a story about Wednesday's Celebration of Life for actor/activist Tony Babin:

"At the end of the memorial Wednesday, nearly 400 people came to their feet — clapping, hooting, laughing and some, even crying.

It was Tony Babin’s last standing ovation.

The actor, director and founder of the Upstart Performing Ensemble died suddenly Dec. 10 at the age of 52. A giant in Colorado Springs’ tight-knit world of theater, his passing packed the house at the Fine Arts Center, where Babin had often performed. And like man, the nearly two-hour musical tribute was hardly ordinary.

• Read the complete article here.
• See the Gazette's Art Blog tribute.
• Tony Babin's obituary.

Indy: Fine Arts Center puts on an irreverent holiday musical revue

Today the Colorado Springs Independent previewed A Christmas Survival Guide (opening this Friday), with insights from director and choreographer Michael Gold.

"Fast-paced and fun, according to Gold, Survival Guide features kooky characters and situations, including a naughty Mrs. Claus (played by Sharon Kay White, two-time Denver Post Ovation winner), a 12-step program set to "The 12 Days of Christmas," Elvis and his Candy Cane Girls, and a Jewish kid's Santa-fantasy-come-true.

"While the play is a far cry from Bob Cratchit rocking Tiny Tim in his arms, traditional Christmas songs do jingle alongside the show's original music, and some sentimental scenes balance the quirky ones. The clichéd message in the madness: Christmas is found within your heart. (Awww ... )"
Read the full article.

'Survival Guide' Video

Check out these video highlights from the FAC Theatre Company's production of A Christmas Survival Guide! The uproarious, grown-up musical revue opens this Friday, Nov. 27 and plays through Dec. 23.

Set Building 101: A Photographic Journey in Creating the Set for A Christmas Suvival Guide

Holly Anne Rawls - Lighting Goddess: When Santa Asked Me To Sit On His Lap, I Wet Myself!

Bah, humbug!

I have always been a bit of a Grinch about Christmas. With my first name being Holly, it was all the years of fellow classmates singing, “Deck the halls with boughs of YOU! Ha ha ha.” Or maybe it was all the relatives who told me, “Here is your Christmas and birthday present.” (A note of explanation: my birthday is on December 29th, so I often received double- duty gifts. Kind of a cop out, I think. I pity the poor bastards who had the misfortune to be born on the 25th.)

I was not always so Scroogey. I can remember a time in my early childhood when Christmas was a time of magic and fun. When I was three or four my godmother’s boyfriend snuck out of our Christmas party, dressed up as Santa, and appeared in the front yard with a sack of gifts. Of course, when he came inside and asked me to come sit on his lap, I promptly wet myself (and him) with excitement. I can remember setting out milk and cookies before bed and trying to catch Santa in the act. I always loved snuggling with my mother or grandmother in front of the lit Christmas tree and reading my favorite story, Santa Mouse.

But at some point (perhaps around age eight, my cynicism matured early) I began to dislike the holidays. The business of preparing for Christmas seemed to sully the event itself. So many cookies to bake, gifts to wrap, lights to string, parties to make appetizers for… All these activities moving towards the end result of a brief orgy of feasting and unwrapping. And then you gotta clean up all those dishes and mounds of discarded wrapping paper. A little depressing, really.
And then there is the over commercialization of Christmas. I know I am preaching on a well- worn topic, but if I were a foreigner looking at American holiday culture (as dictated by the media and shopping malls everywhere) I might think Americans were a misguided, gluttonous group of materialists who just might benefit from being bombed back to the Stone Age. For example, look at Hallmark’s tear- jerking commercials about 4”x6” rectangles of paper magically reuniting estranged mothers and daughters- I mean really! Or how about The Gap running politically correct holiday advertisements for garish sweaters by the first of November- P.S. No family is that ethnically diverse or skinny. Then there are our local Hobby Lobbys who set out trees, ornaments and other Taiwanese- made doodads in September- I was really close to burning that mother down when I saw Halloween decorations being moved aside for reindeer doorstops before the leaves had finished falling. When I am Queen of the Universe, there will be no advertisements, buying anything Christmasy, or playing of holiday related music before Thanksgiving. The Grinch has spoken.

At this point you may be asking yourself how in Yahweh’s name did this crank get to be the lighting designer for a holiday spectacular such as A Christmas Survival Guide? And, as addendum to previous question, what kind of hellish and scary things is she going to do to this lovely holiday show?

To answer the first question, because my boss asked me to. And I always do what he says.

The answer to the second question is a bit more complex. I had my doubts when I was handed the Survival Guide script. But my first meeting with director Michael Gold assuaged my fears. He acknowledged that Christmas could be a stress filled time of empty clichés, but he wanted this show to communicate the true joy of the holidays to our audience. His infectious and obviously heartfelt affection for everything Christmas made my heart grow two sizes that day. Survival Guide makes no attempt to hide the crass commercialization and often dismal depressions of the holidays; rather it gives them a gentle, laughing poke and moves on to what is really important about Christmas- family, togetherness, love and compassion. This show has so much heart. I am terribly impressed with the way Michael and the performers have made moments within the show that make the cynic in me smile. Set designer Chris Sheley and Props Mistress Jessica Rose have created an environment which feels so cheery and comfortable I kinda want to go a wassailing in it.

So, I have climbed aboard the Polar Express and developed a lighting concept that enhances the warmth and familiarity of the scenes as well as showcases the playfulness of the costumes (lovingly designed by Leslie Aldridge).

A Christmas Survival Guide does a fantastic job of spreading holiday cheer and love without leaving the viewer feeling sticky with false sentiment.

A big thank you to the production team for easing me out of my Grinchiness. I suppose we can listen to Christmas music in the shop, even though it is not yet Thanksgiving. And yes Chris, you can wear your Santa hat to work. Maybe we’ll even decorate the tree early this year.

A Merry Christmas to all and to all a good night!

-Holly

How Do You Win Two Tickets to 'A Christmas Survival Guide?'

The Fine Arts Center Theatre Company has the perfect holiday gift for your family and friends. You can see the remaining FOUR shows in our 2009-2010 Season for the PRICE OF THREE! It's like getting a show for FREE. The remaining shows in our 2009-2010 season include:

A Christmas Survival Guide:
This side-splitting, uproarious and charming 'grown-up' revue pokes fun at the stressful holiday season. Nov. 27-Dec. 23.

Sweeney Todd:
Stephen Sondheim's Musical Comedy Thriller and winner of 8 Tony Awards. Jan. 22-Feb. 14, 2010

All My Sons:
Arthur Miller's poignant drama: A play for our time and for all time! March 19-April 4, 2010

Crazy For You:
A tap dancing, foot stomping extravaganza featuring the unforgettable music of George and Ira Gershwin. May 7-30, 2010.

You can win two free tickets to our current production of A Christmas Survival Guide by reading this week's E-Blast from the Independent. Click on this link: http://posting.csindy.com/colorado/WinTickets/Page

The secret winning phrase is "Four Shows for the Price of Three"

To order tickets to our 'short season' call the FAC Box Office: 719.634.5583

A Christmas Survival Guide is a side-splitting, uproarious and charming revue that pokes fun at the stressful holiday season. Our characters, armed with a copy of A Christmas Survival Guide and an optimistic attitude, charge into shopping malls, office parties, and family gatherings in their search for the true essence of Christmas. By mixing comedic vignettes, a contemporary score of original music (‘The Twelve Steps of Christmas’, ‘Waitin’ for the Man with the Bag’) and classic songs (Silent Night, Jingle Bells) the characters search for the true holiday spirit only to find that Christmas keeps getting in the way.

Carmen Vreeman: Michael took 2 turns OUT of a number! What is the world coming to?! Thanks for the extra oxygen!

From cast-member Carmen Vreeman:

I grew up in the Chicago area and am the youngest of six kids. Christmas was always a very special time for my family, with feelings and traditions that no other holiday brings. Here are just a few of the traditions and favorite memories of Christmas that I grew up with:
~Buying the Christmas tree on the day after Thanksgiving
~Decorating the tree on a lovely evening: dim lights, old (sometimes falling apart) ornaments, hot chocolate, cheesy music (the Oakridge Boys), singing carols a capella by candlelight, and dancing.
~All 8 of us (parents included) piling into the old Ford van to go shopping for each other in Michigan late one night, which culminated in breakfast sometime between 3 and 5 am at a restaurant where the waitress remembered us each year.
~Christmas caroling at nearby nursing homes
~Taking trips downtown Chicago to see the lights and decorations
~Opening presents late on Christmas Eve night after a church service, wishing “Merry Christmas" right as the clock struck 12.
~Waking up on Christmas morning to the smell of homemade cinnamon roles and opening the stockings above the fireplace in the basement
~Knowing that we were all together

It’s certainly accurate to say that I do love all those Christmas clichés. When I think of Christmas, I reminisce about my childhood holidays in Chicago. But it wasn’t long before most of my siblings moved out, got married, and started new lives. Another change happened when I was 12 and we moved away from Chicago. Since then, I have spent Christmas seasons in New Mexico, Washington, L.A and Colorado. Sometimes I feel like nothing will ever beat my perfect childhood Christmases. I’m sure many can relate.

Last year at Christmas time, I was filling out college applications, preparing for auditions for schools, and dreaming about being away at a university somewhere east of the Mississippi for the start of the season and coming home for Christmas. But the year brought disappointment and a major change in plans, and obviously I am not away at college. In these months following graduation, I have struggled to dream and keep my goals alive. (And I think every artist can attest that when you’re not dreaming, you’re not thriving.) Then, miraculously- this show: a reason and spark to dream again. When I was offered a role in Christmas Survival Guide, I was ecstatic and terrified. Knowing that I would get to do my favorite thing in the world (performing, and not just another typical Christmas show) around my favorite holiday brought me goosebumps of joy. Yet, I knew a great challenge was before me. As one of the youngest in the cast, I worried about not having as much to give. But my fellow actors and friends have embraced me, quite literally, in affirmation of my gifts (some that I don’t get to use very often; for example, pointe) That’s not to say it hasn’t kicked my you-know-what. I think it’s fair to say that we all have been challenged, but for the best and so much fun. Being a part of this company and production has blessed me beyond belief. I can’t thank Michael and everyone involved enough for this opportunity.

This show: its content and the people I have been so privileged to work with have brought hope back. I’ve started dreaming again. As I’ve become more familiar with the meaning and characters within Christmas Survival Guide, I have become more aware of the fact that I am not the only who sometimes stops dreaming, or feels stuck where they are, or even dreads the holiday season because they know it won’t be what they expected. Some of my Christmases, like so many others’, have been dampened by many different elements: broken relationships, financial struggle, deferred dreams. And while we actors portray certain individuals in different circumstances, they represent thousands of journeys and feelings toward the Christmas season. I think everyone in the audience will see themselves in the characters on stage, comedic or dramatic. That’s part of the beauty of theatre: there is always some truth (and heart) even in the comedy and drama. It’s particularly poignant in this show.

Christmas happens in the middle of dreams and disappointments. It can also be a cause for both. My hope and prayer is that you will come to this show and participate from where you are in your journey- dreaming or dreading- and find the hope that Christmas can offer in the midst of the frantic rush of life... Hold on. Dream again and keep dreaming. Wait and hope with us. Christmas is coming. And it just might be the best one ever.
~Carmen Vreeman

P.S. A more detailed note about the process of the show: Tonight, Michael took 2 turns OUT of a number! What is the world coming to?! Thanks for the extra oxygen, Michael. J

Sharon Kay White: It's Very Strange Wearing A Tank Top, Singing Christmas Songs!

From cast-member Sharon Kay White:

Ahhh, Christmas. Who doesn't love Christmas? I have to say, as an actor, it's very strange to be wearing a tank top, singing Christmas songs in July, August, September...that's generally when an actor auditions for a Christmas production. But it does put one in a Christmas frame of mind. And oftentimes, doing those same old tired Christmas shows year after year can make any yuletide-lovin' gal a Santa cynic. But A Christmas Survival Guide is unlike any other Christmas show I've ever seen or performed in, and for that, I am grateful! Even though there actually IS a bit of cynicism (and a lot of humor) in the show, it is steeped in reality, and always brings you back to find the warmth and joy of the holiday season.

We're having a great time finding all of that with this show, and we hope to be able to share that with a lot of people this year! I figure that if WE'RE all laughing and crying during rehearsals, surely audiences will have a similar experience in seeing the show. I hope so, because it's a wonderful feeling. It's been a blast working with such a talented and dedicated group of actors, technicians, designers, administrators, and musicians. And what a bonus to be directed by my dear, darling friend, Michael....and even our shared commute from Denver has been a blast. What more could a girl ask for? Well, a date with Santa, I suppose.....see the show. You'll get the joke.

Pictured above: (Left to Right) Marco Robinson, Halee Towne, Sharon Kay White and Carmen Vreeman

Bret: The Sounds of Christmas

From Breton Parks Christopherson, The Ultimate Sound Designer: Tech week is the second most stressful week in any production. I usually make a list of things I still need to do, then check it twice. When it finally does come along, I love to see all the different pieces of the show come together. After tech week, the show's opening weekend is the most stressful time during a production. The night before opening night, I have trouble sleeping. I feel like a kid on Christmas Eve, way too excited to sleep. Except in my case, I’m too nervous to sleep. I lay awake wondering if I've done everything I need to and hoping that everything doesn’t fall to pieces opening night.

As of right now I am actively organizing the pre show/intermission music and sound effects for A Christmas Survival Guide. I have been listening to so much Christmas music that I already feel the holiday spirit. The melody to “Here Comes Santa Claus” has been stuck in my head for the last week.

When Director Micheal Gold described his vision for the show as something that would stir up fun and warm memories of Christmas, I immediately pictured my family bustling around the house listening to our traditional assortment of Christmas tunes. In order to bring those memorable feelings to this production, I have included some of the recordings my family normally listens to. My hope is that this will make people think of their own family's personal connection with specific songs of the holiday season.

~Breton Christopherson

Leslie Aldridge: Cinnamon, Outerware & Muppets. You gotta love a Costume Designer!

THREE THINGS I LOVE ABOUT THE CHRISTMAS SEASON:

1. Cinnamon. How very lovely it is to walk into a department store and immediately your senses and brain thoughts are enveloped in the warm, familiar smell of cinnamon.

2. Outerwear. It is the perfect time of year to contrast the cloudy skies with a colorful pashmina or a pair of yellow rubber boots lined with a bright plaid print.

3.. A Muppet Christmas Carol. (no explanation needed.)

I SO appreciate the opportunity i have to design costumes for this wicked rad show. But more importantly, i feel super honored to be working with such a talented team of artists and performers. what a great show we have in our hands! it is well worth bringing your friends to and then going home to a nice cup of hot chocolate (with cinnamon of course!), while singing the songs from the show...which may get stuck in your head for days upon days...upon days.

This show is the complete christmas package, minus A Muppet Christmas Carol.

ENJOY!!!

xoxo

leslie a.

Halee Towne: It has been impossible for me NOT to connect with the heart of Christmas Survival Guide.

From Halee Towne: Actor, the one in the photo with the antlers ...

Every year I do my best to get in the holiday spirit; I watch Mr. Magoo's Christmas Carol, eat monster cookies, stare at the lights on the tree, sing my favorite carols, and bawl when they play "Christmas Shoes" over the loud speakers at department stores, but sometimes Christmas comes and goes and I am left completely unmoved and unaffected. It leaves me feeling cheated somehow... all of the hype and buildup of Christmas and the "magic" of the season, and I miss it. There is a certain mystery about Christmas... sometimes it sinks in, makes sense and leaves you loving humanity and ready to tackle the brand new year that is ahead... and other times, it kind of lets you down and makes any pain you already feel about every day life 1000 times worse.

You never can tell what it will bring.

A Christmas Survival Guide deals directly with the mystery of Christmas and I am loving the process it is taking me through. Today, Marco and I rehearsed a scene where we are a couple in love, ready to spend our first Christmas together and how excited we are as we decorate our tree until we start realizing that Christmas means two completely different things to each one of us, and our day and tree are destroyed because of it. Sammy does a brilliant number where he is trying so desperately to love the season but he is never allowed to connect with it with all the chaos around him. Sharon Kay is left alone with her TV after a party, trying to reconcile her loneliness with the happiness she is supposed to be feeling this time of year. Carmen needs all of the the fruitcake and Santa and plastic reindeer and Johnny Mathis in order to experience the joy of the holidays. As we look to a book to find our answers to the millions of questions we have about Christmas, at the end, we are all left with the one question... what is Christmas all about?

I have loved exploring this question with the four FABULOUS other cast members, our director and musical director and the designers of this show. It has been impossible for me NOT to connect with the heart of Christmas Survival Guide.

What a gift it has been to me!

Halee

Jacyshyn: A little holiday carol, a little Elvis and a little Hannukah!

Today's entry is from Musical Director Roberta Jacyshyn:

A Christmas Survival Guide is just plain fun. There's a little holiday carol here and there, a little Elvis, a little Hannukah tune, moving ballads; all performed with style and grace by our talented cast of five. The five-piece band is set to be on stage, which is always a welcome addition to any show.

I am blessed to have the opportunity to lead the cast and band. Looking forward to merry holiday music making.

-- Roberta

P.S. The image is a Chris Sheley model of the set.

Gleason: "This show is the best. Period."

From actor Sammy Gleason, a member of the show's five-person ensemble...
Hey Bloggers,
Being a part of this show has been a blessing in disguise for me. At the beginning of this season I had not given A Christmas Survival Guide a second thought, or a first thought for that matter. To be quite honest, my mind was preoccupied with a very different show in the season line up. But when I received a call from the staff here at the Fine Arts Center Theatre Company asking if I would come and audition I thought “Why not?” So I went to the audition and danced and sang, read a few lines and generally had a very good time. I went home, and AGAIN I didn’t give it a second thought. Then I was asked to come in for a callback. “That’s weird” I thought. I went in, danced some more, read some more and sang some more, and I went home. When I got called for a third time, my interest was positively peaked. I went in and read again, I sang again, and I went home...again. Fast forward to the very next day and I was in full hunger mode -- I wanted this show. I was totally on PINS AND NEEDLES waiting to hear who had been cast. Having seen Michael Gold in last season’s “The Music Man” and having now auditioned three times for him, I was just itching for the chance to be in this show. To my utmost surprise and delight I was offered a part -- I even did a little touchdown dance! It’s funny how things come along when you’re not expecting them. I hadn’t planned on this, yet here I am working with some of the best in the business and having the time of my life. Like I said, it’s been a blessing in disguise and one of the best Christmas presents I’ve ever received.

My favorite part of the rehearsal process so far has been the dancing. I LOVE to dance! And Michael, being the Broadway veteran that he is, is just full of ideas when it comes to moving actors around the stage while they sing. There are leaps and shimmies; there are shuffles and splits (that’s my own fault). Feather boas and microphone stands as dance partners, and TURNS! OH how Michael LOVES the turns. In fact, one of his favorite pass times has been to say “…and I’m gonna add another turn here” just to watch our eyes get huge as we try to figure out how to do it without falling over! Then he giggles and shows us how it’s done, all the while knowing that he’s going to do that two more times before the night is over! But seriously, it’s a LOT of fun. And there is SO much dancing. This show is literally song after song after song with little break in between for scenes and dialogue. That’s one of the best parts of the show, but it is also one of the challenges. Any musical theater performer will tell you that hopping from one number to the next with little room for breathing is difficult and “Survival Guide” is no different -- I think the five of us are finally starting to realize how much work this show is going to be. Add to that all of the amazing choreography Michael has given us (and the TURNS!) and you can probably imagine what a ragtag, exhausted bunch we are at the end of rehearsals. Yet with that said, what other show lets you belt your heart out in a jazzy opening number, tap dance as one of Santa’s reindeer, bemoan the Christmas blues in a torchy Bob Fosse-esque tribute, AND sing beautiful ballads and familiar holiday carols in the span of about 90 minutes? NONE! This show is the best. Period.

OK, serious bit now. I have an amazing family and a whole bunch of wonderful Christmas memories -- this season has always been full of joy and magic for me. However, everyone can relate to feeling overwhelmed during the holidays and I am no exception. Not knowing where you fit, who you are, or what the whole thing is about is a very common holiday affliction and “A Christmas Survival Guide” is a show that deals with those ups and downs. Getting to work with this amazing group of artists has brought home to me the concept that Christmas is about being with family and friends. It’s not about what you give or what you get, but rather who you share it with. As long as you are surrounded by loved ones, you WILL experience the joy of Christmas.

So, welcome to the “Christmas Survival Guide” experience! You guys are in for an amazing time, full of fun, laughter and LOTS of heart. Now go buy tickets!!! Cheers!

-Sammy Gleason

Sheley: This process has been so rewarding; I'm wearing a Santa hat right now

Scenic Designer Christopher L. Sheley, who has earned awards from The Gazette, Denver Post and Pikes Peak Arts Council, takes his turn at blogging.

I remember, years ago, walking down Chicago Avenue with my then roommate Jay carrying a Christmas tree just selected from a vendor who was set up in an abandoned lot on the near north side of Chicago. We were bundled up, sipping lattes and laughing ourselves stupid. In the end, this became the inspiration behind my scenic design for A Christmas Survival Guide.

At the first production meeting, our director, Michael Gold, walked in and said “let’s make this fun and warm, easily recognizable to the audience with iconic Christmas images and warm memories." We then talked about sled riding, about picking out a tree, about shopping for gifts, about the smell of chestnuts roasting, about snow and all of the sense memories people often carry with them from year to year. We even talked about those memories we all have that are not so good, about the heartbreak and the loneliness that most of us have experienced at some point in our lives during the holidays. We put all of our ideas into the proverbial hopper, talked about the script’s needs, and as the meetings progressed it became clear we all felt we wanted the space to be warm and inviting almost to the point of actually roasting chestnuts.

In the end, this process for has been so rewarding and so upbeat that I am wearing a Santa hat even as I write this blog. Leslie Aldridge’s costumes are of a beautiful color pallet, Jessica Rose’s props…especially Santa’s puppet…look tight as always, Bret Christopherson’s sound effects are right on, and Holly Rawls’s lighting will have thousands of looks including some fifty strands of Christmas lights which I’m sure will offer a terrific warmth and glow to the whole show.

We watched rehearsal this past Sunday and the show has some remarkable numbers and characters. There is truly some big, big talent in this cast. And speaking of, Michael Gold’s talent and energy are always astonishing. His motor runs a hundred miles an hour (must be the sugar from all of his baked goods), and his passion and work ethic are terribly impressive. I have to say we are all very fortunate to have him here with us here at the FAC.

I must also say I LOVE CHRISTMAS. I have so much to be grateful for and so many loving and kind people with which to share the season. To Olivia and Holly…….I love you both more than words can describe. To the rest of you and the whole world….I wish you all the love and kindness your hearts can hold. MERRY CHRISTMAS EVERYONE!

- Chris

Gold: "Not your typical Christmas show"

Find out what goes on behind-the-scenes of an FAC Theatre Company production. Starting today, the actors, designers, musicians and technicians of A Christmas Survival Guide will give you their insights on the creative process for this holiday show, which opens Nov. 27. Tickets are available online.

First up, Broadway veteran Michael E. Gold, the show's director and choreographer.

Dear Bloggers:

Merry Christmas and welcome to the FAC Blog for A CHRISTMAS SURVIVAL GUIDE! As Director/Choreographer, I invite you to meet the ensemble, musicians and staff of CSG and share your holiday spirit with us. We’re putting together a unique piece that will surprise and entertain you. We’re about halfway through rehearsals and it’s been a blast. We have assembled an ensemble of five actors/five musicians that are top-notch. Their energy and enthusiasm has made me approach this project and Christmas with a renewed spirit, which is the whole point of the show.

I promise you this is not your typical Christmas show. It’s refreshing for me to be a part of something new and for people to have an option this year that’s not a repeat from years past. It’s a unique approach to looking at the holidays, with all its joys and dysfunctions, through traditional and not-so-traditional songs, tap dancing reindeer, Elvis, a 12-Step approach and some of the most beautiful ballads you’ll hear this season.

I happen to love Christmas but it’s not always been so easy for me. Eleven years in New York away from home, loss of parents, relocating, performing on Christmas were all challenges that made each year different. Families, money, work, parties, food, loneliness, etc. all take a toll on us. But I am in a place in my life now that I treasure this time and look forward to it. This year I think we have a special gift for you.

So come have a laugh on us and really enjoy Christmas ’09 at the FAC. I guarantee you’ll more then survive!

-Michael

'Broadway Bound' feature from Colorado Culture Cast

Check out Colorado Culture Cast's new video on Broadway Bound. Craig Richardson talks to Alan Osburn, Marco and Oscar Robinson, and Amy Brooks about the Neil Simon production, which plays for three more performances this weekend at the FAC.

'Heart and Music' video from the Denver Post

The Denver Post recently posted this video podcast on a benefit concert held at the FAC in August. Heart and Music, organized by actor Natalie Jensen, raised over $5,000 for the Susan G. Komen breast-cancer foundation and the Pikes Peak Region Peace Officers' Memorial.

Heart & Music Benefit - Behind the Scenes from Ray Bailey on Vimeo.

On the Legacy of Neil Simon

The New York Magazine looks at the legacy of writer Neil Simon, who wrote the book for the FAC's current production of Broadway Bound.

"Bashing Neil Simon has been almost de rigueur for highbrow critics since the playwright had his first hits in the early sixties. But now that he’s 82 and in iffy health, and a major revival of two of his most celebrated works—the first and third parts of the Brighton Beach trilogy, Brighton Beach Memoirs and Broadway Bound—is about to open, it’s hard not to feel nostalgic for the popular theater he once dominated. For better and worse, Simon’s plays—in their complacency, insularity, and, yes, hilarity—connected with their audience on a level that theater almost never does anymore.

"Simon’s wisecrack-laden comedies made him, by many estimates, the most commercially successful playwright of all time. For a quarter-century, you could count on one of his 30-plus plays or musicals to be packing ’em in on Broadway ... "

Read the complete article here.

FAC hauls in 13 Gazette 'best of' awards

The Fine Arts Center took home 13 'Best of' awards from the Gazette. Congratulations to all!

Best Art Museum
Fine Arts Center (Readers' Choice)
When it comes to the Fine Arts Center, Lee Bowers sums it up quite nicely: "Um. Wow!" After a $28.4 million renovation in 2006, the facility boasts both architect John Gaw Meem's stately Pueblo style and airy public spaces able to accommodate the enormous as well as the intimate. Voters cited the free admission days, Dale Chihuly's chandeliers, a solid permanent collection and ambitious traveling shows as reasons to visit again and again. "Better than the Denver Art Museum," wrote one fan, "who needs angled walls?"

Best Local Exhibit
Colorado Springs Abstract (Gazette Pick)
The scope of this 80-piece survey is ambitious - from turn-of-the-century experimentation to contemporary renderings. Sure, there are heavy hitters, such as the tasty Motherwells you can spot from the broad doorway of the Fine Arts Center's El Pomar Gallery. But the real treat is to see local artists Betty Ross, Holly Parker, Bill Burgess and others hang in this august setting.

Best Museum Exhibit
Life as a Legend: Marilyn Monroe (Readers' Choice)
Despite a year of blockbusters at the Fine Arts Center - from an impressionists show in January to Pablo Picasso in July - this tightly focused traveling exhibit stood out with voters. Not unlike the delicious Ms. Monroe herself. The April 2008 offering included 300 Monroe-related photographs and works by such artists as Andy Warhol, Richard Avedon and Henri Cartier-Bresson as well as 15 local artists invited to participate in the show. It was fun, sexy, sad and, ultimately, a testament to our obsession with the unattainable.

Best Traveling Exhibit
Mikel Glass: The Discarded (Gazette Pick)
It's big ideas in small packages. Sometimes literally. In this sprawling exhibition, the New York artist creates say-what facsimiles of throw-away objects as well as exquisitely painted canvases that play with notions of realism and the nature of art. All of this at our local museum. Amazing.

Best Use of Multimedia
Mikel Glass: The Discarded (Gazette Pick)
It's hard to get your mind around New York realist Mikel Glass' curious work, which ran Jan. 17-April 19 at the Fine Arts Center. That's especially true of the series of handmade boxes that ape throw-away objects, such as express-mail boxes, with such detail that you can't tell the difference. Recognizing that the best convincer - touching it and seeing the wooden back - wasn't possible, the arts center put together a smart array of online and gallery media - including a slide show, a video on how he makes these pieces and an interview with the artist - to telegraph just how artful this heady work really is.

Best Artist You Do Not Understand
Tom McElroy (Gazette Pick)
If you walked into Tom McElroy's recent exhibition at the FAC Modern, "Atomic Elroy's Hometown," you may have been puzzled. But you were unlikely to miss that, like much of his work, this video and installation piece is smart and meaningful, the pearl inside a particularly petulant oyster. To understand McElroy, you needed to spend time with the piece, wading into his complicated relationship with his hometown, Colorado Springs, and his love affair with the slippery nature of dadaism.

Best Musical
The Full Monty (Readers' Choice)
Fans couldn't stop laughing. They loved the singing, acting and special "ladies night" production. Some thought it should have gotten even more exposure, if you know what we mean.

Best Musical
Disney's Beauty and the Beast (Gazette Pick)
Colorful costumes, a sparkling cast and one show-stopping number after another combined to captivate adults while introducing a new, young audience to the magic of theater.

Best Costumes
Disney's Beauty and the Beast (Gazette Pick)
How do you bring a wardrobe, a candelabra and a houseful of everyday objects to life? Easily, if you've got Elizabeth Fry's keen imagination and eye for detail. Why, she made even the Beast endearing.

Best Choreography
The Full Monty (Gazette Pick)
Mary Ripper Baker's dance numbers are always a joy to watch, but in this testosterone-driven musical she really outdid herself, rocking the house with her contagiously energetic choreography.

Best Youth Show
Working (Gazette Pick)
Recognized for its intensive training program in the dramatic arts, The Youth Rep showed with this ode to American workers that it could produce work as polished and mature as any professional theater company.

Best Romantic Restaurant
Cafe 36 (Gazette Pick)
When this restaurant opened in the wake of the nifty Fine Arts Center expansion, it served some pretty food that was also pretty bad. But since Garden of the Gods Gourmet took over, the cafe which is now open for dinner and happy hour tapas as well as lunch, it has landed among the top lunch spots in town. The limited but creative menu is complemented by a romantic setting, particularly on the patio overlooking Pikes Peak.

Best Volunteer
Mary Lou Roesler, FAC docent (Readers' Choice)

Sally Hybl interview uncut

Watch FOX 21's Meaghan Collier interviewing local actress Sally Lewis Hybl about her role in the FAC's production of the classic musical, The Music Man, playing through May 31.

FOX 21 Morning News "Shout Out"

FOX 21 Morning News previewed Lend Me A Tenor on the air on March 20. “It seems every time we turn around these days there is something else that is depressing. One thing that seems to be missing is laughter,” says Theatre Company Producing Artistic Director, Alan Osburn. “This is a funny play. Laugh out loud funny. If you want to get away from all of this depressing news for a while come see this play. You will have a great time."

Watch the video here.

Indy: Lend Me An Ex-Rocker

The Independent previewed Lend Me A Tenor: ""It's fast-paced, hilarious and everyone has to be on their game for it to work," says Brian McClure, who plays Max ... With his boyish smile and contagious energy, you'd never guess McClure is almost 35. While he broke into theater as a chorus member in the Fine Arts Center's Damn Yankees in 2003, his performance education has really come from singing in bands. For seven years, he was lead singer of Head Full of Zombies, the local cover band that's won multiple Best Of Colorado Springs awards in the Independent's annual readers' poll."

Gazette: A hilarious peek behind the scenes

The Gazette preview of Lend Me a Tenor: "Take one divo, add the traditional soprano diva, Diana, played by Nan Rubley of the Opera Theatre of the Rockies and the Colorado Opera Festival; Brian McClure, lead singer of the local band Head Full of Zombies, as aspiring tenor Max; and FAC favorite Brantley Scott Haines as the bumbling bellhop. Shake with an accidental drugging, mistaken identities, half-dressed women and lots of slamming doors."

The Full Monty on Colorado Culture Cast

Watch Colorado Culture Cast producer Craig Richardson speak with Full Monty director Alan Osburn and actors Cory Moosman and Nick Madson about the musical comedy. The Full Monty runs through Feb. 15.

The Full Monty on FOX 21

FOX 21's Morning Reporter Meaghan Collier was on the set of the FAC Theatre Company's latest production, The Full Monty, last Monday. Check out the four video clips below:

• Director Alan Osburn discusses the "sassy" show
• How does The Full Monty relate to people in Colorado Springs?
• Cast member Ken Robinson talks with Meaghan
• Meaghan learns Monty dance moves, then turns the camera on photographer Chad

Inside The Full Monty undress rehearsal

Here’s a note from Cyndi Trissel of Colorado Springs, who saw last night’s Invited Dress Rehearsal of The Full Monty:

“I absolutely loved it. Everyone did such a fantastic job. I hadn’t seen a show at the SaGāJi Theatre before; I was very impressed. As with the film, I completely fell for Dave (Cory Moosman) He really evoked empathy from me.

The show stayed very close to the film, which I loved, and the music and songs -- so beautifully executed -- just accentuated the greatness and relevance of the story. The sets were used brilliantly and the cast is wonderful. The actors unwavering dedication to their roles was essential and yet unexpected at the same time. I have much respect for them as artists and craftsman to have that kind of devotion.

I know my opinion is just one tiny person, but I am telling everyone I know to come see it; I think I will even come see it again as well. It was a toe-tapping, heartfelt, fun-loving time, and I couldn’t stop smiling.

The Full Monty is the Go! cover story today

The Fine Arts Center says it won't shy away from 'The Full Monty'

T.D. Mobley-Martinez writes: While stories have circulated that audience members wear sunglasses to sidestep any lighting tricks to obscure the goods, Osburn saw something different when he appeared in the production years ago: They get seats closer to the stage, he says, anticipating those final moments.

"Again, people talk about the last 30 seconds of the show," he says.

"For me, it's the humanity of the piece. Shakespeare wrote ‘Hold a mirror up to nature.' These are real people and they have real problems and the way they find release is through friendship.
It's about the fellas."

Right, sure, but do they do IT?

"Let me put it this way," he says.

"There's no question as to whether or not they do."

Gazette feature on young 'Full Monty' actor

Gazette arts writer T.D. Mobley-Martinez tells the tale of 12-year-old FAC Theatre Company actor Mark Autry, who appears in The Full Monty as well as another production in town. (Mark is shown here with Nick Madson from The Full Monty.)

"It's amazing. I don't think I have anything after this," he says, his freckles shifting as he gooses his eyebrows for emphasis. "‘The Full Monty' starts again tomorrow."

In the past year, Mark's taken roles in at least four community productions, including TheatreWorks' "The Grapes of Wrath" and now, "The Full Monty," which opens Friday at the Fine Arts Center. That means rehearsals that start about 8 p.m. and last until about 11 p.m. Then it's home, homework and bed.

He shrugs when asked whether he's tired. "Not yet," he says of this recent collision of two productions, "The Full Monty" and "The Boy."

See the full story here.

The Independent previews The Full Monty

Today's Independent previews The Full Monty: "The Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center's upcoming production of The Full Monty is supposed to involve "six steel workers who bare it all." So the obvious question for director Alan Osburn is, "Will we really get the full monty?"

"Unfortunately, he gives the obvious answer for a director who wants a full house: "I think you're going to have to come see it yourself."

From The Full Monty to Slumdog Millionaire

Simon Beaufoy, who came to prominence as the writer of the hugely successful comedy of working-class life, The Full Monty, has written another story of underdogs. The movie titled Slumdog Millionaire has generated a ton of Oscar buzz, after both Beaufoy and the movie earned 2008 Golden Globe awards. In 1998, Beaufoy was nominated for an Oscar for writing The Full Monty.

The FAC Theatre Company's production of the revealing musical-comedy opens Jan. 23. Tickets are available now.

Final Weekend for 'A Christmas Carol'

Don't miss Charles Dickens' tale of Ebenezer Scrooge, A Christmas Carol. The whole family will love this holiday musical, with final performances this Thursday - Sunday. TICKETS >>

Enjoy pre-theatre dining. "The new Café 36 menu at museum shines with fantastic dishes, flair … (it is) full of fresh, delicious food presented with the visual flair befitting an art museum." Call 477.4377 for reservations.

Nick Madson takes his stand-up to Denver

Nick Madson, who played Lumiere in the Fine Arts Center's production of Disney's Beauty and the Beast last season, is performing his stand-up routine in Denver at Metropolis this Sunday. Tickets for "Nick Madson: One Fierce Box of Wine" are available for the 9 p.m. show by calling 325.6486. The Independent ran a feature on Nick in their Dec. 11 issue.

Gazette previews 'A Christmas Carol'

The Gazette interviewed director Alan Osburn for a piece entitled, "Christmas Carol stars will take flight at arts center," because in this year's FAC Theatre Company production you will see actors flying, but the show isn't just about special effects "You know, it's not about shopping. It's not about malls," says Osburn of the tale, which Dickens called "a whimsical sort of masque intended to awaken loving and forbearing thoughts. Dickens felt that Christmas was a time of rebirth," he says, "a time to gather together and figure out we did wrong and do it over. I think that's why (audiences) keep coming back. I think it's the rebirth factor." Tickets are available for this weekend.

Biloxi Blues reviews from Gazette bloggers

The Gazette has posted reviews of Biloxi Blues from three individuals: Todd Wallinger, JaNae Stansbery and Leah Chandler-Mills. This weekend is the final weekend for Biloxi Blues. The FAC is offering discounts for military personnel. Call 634.5583.

Highlights include:

• “The FAC Theatre Company started off its new season with more than a bang last Friday. It started it off with a full-blown rifle blast.”
• “Mark Rubald is riveting as Sergeant Toomey”
• Jeffrey S. Miller, as Arnold Epstein, the bookish intellectual … burns with a courageous yet quiet intensity that was compelling to watch.”
• “ … an exuberant, hilarious performance by some of the area’s best talent … “
• “ (a) humorous and engaging production … “
• “ … a funny and insightful night of theatre … “
• “Marco Robinson has grown into this role, and it’s hard to imagine a better Eugene. (Matthew Broderick, who played the role in the movie, has big-time competition here.)”
• "Chris Sheley has given them a magic puzzle box of a set – don’t let the plain wall fool you, there are amazing things hidden here.”
• "There’s one more play in this trilogy; Broadway Bound completes the cycle (can we hope for this next season?) Right now, give yourself a night out and don’t miss this warm, funny play.”

Biloxi Blues on FOX21

On Friday, Oct. 10, the FAC Theatre Company kicked off its season with the opening of Neil Simon's Biloxi Blues. FOX21 Morning News reporter Meaghan Collier talked with director Alan Osburn about the military comedy, which runs Thursdays-Sundays until Oct. 26:


See the story on FOX21

How to Plant a Tree in the SaGāJi

Hear the FAC's award-winning designer Chris Sheley tells the compelling story of how his entire team gets into the act of building a "ginormous tree" for the upcoming production of Disney's Beauty and the Beast.
Listen Here (21:23)

Caveman on Fox 21

Last weekend's limited engagement of Defending the Caveman was a hit ... due to popular demand, the show will return for a second showing June 6-7. Watch the interview with Caveman Cody Lyman on Fox 21 News Feb. 22:

watch on Fox 21 website | watch on Windows Media Player

Caveman on Springs Culture Cast

Springs Culture Cast interviewed Defending the Caveman star Cody Lyman, who will be performing at the FAC Friday and Saturday. More about the show...

Sunday in the Park preview

FOX 21’s Meaghan Collier previews the Fine Arts Center Theatre Company’s production of the Pulitzer Prize winning musical, Sunday in the Park with George, featuring interviews with actors Brian R. Hutchinson, Carmen Mock and director Alan Osburn. Watch the video.

John Updike on Georges Seurat

Celebrated writer John Updike reviewed the Georges Seurat MOMA exhibition in The New York Review for Books (Jan. 17), writing, "Impressionism, our impression is, proceeded by instinct, its stabs of high color pursuing what the eyes of Monet and Renoir and Pissarro and Sisley found in the open air, as sunlight's spectrum flitted across the sight of haystacks, poppy-dotted fields, and rippled water. Analysis was left to Post-Impressionism, whose varied masters, with a greater or lesser degree of programmatic determination, put forward terms for their own art and the art of the future. Neither Cezanne nor Van Gogh was more resolutely theoretical than Georges Seurat."

• Impressionist and Modern Masters
• Sunday in the Park with George

Sunday in the Park with George: FAC performs musical masterpiece about painter Seurat

Read the complete press release.

COLORADO SPRINGS (Jan. 2, 2008) – In the past 50 years, there have only been three musicals to win the Pulitzer Prize for Drama: A Chorus Line, Rent and Sunday in the Park with George. The Fine Arts Center Theatre Company will present Sunday in the Park with George, Jan. 25-Feb. 17, in the SaGāJi Theatre.

Written and scored by Stephen Sondheim and James Lapine, Sunday in the Park is a moving study of the enigmatic painter Georges Seurat that won a Pulitzer Prize for its insightful and personal examination of life through art and the artist. Act one follows Seurat as he fights a losing battle to maintain a relationship with his mistress, Dot, as he creates his painting, A Sunday Afternoon on the Island of La Grande Jatte, amid the scorn of the artistic community. The second act takes place 100 years later, introducing us to his American descendant, also an artist, burned out and uncertain of the path he must take.

The show was specifically chosen to correspond with the FAC’s special exhibition, Impressionist and Modern Masters, on exhibit through March 9. Much of the second act is set at an art exhibition opening in a museum.

“What better piece to do at an arts center that recently completed a $30 million renovation and who is currently exhibiting one of the country finest exhibitions of Impressionist and post-Impressionist art?” asks Alan Osburn, Producing Artistic Director of the FAC Theatre Company. Osburn, who directed last season’s Into the Woods – another Sondheim/Lapine collaboration – is directing Sunday in the Park.

The scenic designer will feature the artistry of Brian Jude Beacom, who will recreate Seurat’s paintings: A Sunday Afternoon on the Island of La Grande Jatte and Bathing at Asnieres, along with painting over a dozen life-size, two-dimensional cut outs of various people and animals found in the La Grande Jatte painting. Seurat painted La Grande Jatte in two years; Beacom will have four weeks.

The show stars Brian R. Hutchinson as George and Carmen Mock as Dot. Hutchinson earned the 2006 Denver Henry Award from the Denver Theatre Guild for “Best Actor in a Musical” for his work in Assassins (yet another Sondheim-penned work) as John Wilkes Booth at the Aurora Fox Theatre. Hutchinson was a finalist for the 2006 Denver Post Ovation Award for “Best Year by an Actor,” highlighted by his role in Cabaret.

More information concerning tickets sales for individuals or groups, and the Curtain Call Society can be found at csfineartscenter.org or by calling the FAC Box Office at 719.634.5583.

Read the complete press release.

Roberta Jacyshyn wins 2007 Denver Post Ovation Award

On Dec. 30, the FAC Theatre Company’s Musical Director Roberta Jacyshyn earned a 2007 Denver Post Ovation Award for “Best Orchestra” for Into the Woods; the production garnered nine nominations, including “Best Musical,” “Best Ensemble,” and “Best Director.” In 2006, the Company earned the Ovation Award for “Best Musical” with Pirates of Penzance.

Jacyshyn, the Musical Director or musician or both for every single FAC musical since 1984’s Bye Bye Birdie – about 80 productions – is saying goodbye to Colorado Springs. Jacyshyn will be playing keyboards for Sunday in the Park; it will be her farewell performance as she and her husband, Mark Rose, will be moving to Florida. Rose has been the primary reeds player for the Theatre Company for a number of years.

“Roberta and Mark will be greatly missed,” said Alan Osburn, Producing Artistic Director of the FAC Theatre Company. “Both have played integral roles in the legacy of our musical success and we wish them well in their future endeavors.”

Ghost of Christmas Present signing off

This past Sunday saw the final performance of A Christmas Carol, at least for this year. And of course on Tuesday it was Christmas Day, and, as you all know the Ghost of Christmas Present's life ends midnight on Christmas Day.

So, it is with a little sadness that I mark the passing of my rendition of the Ghost of Christmas Present. It was a fun role to do, all the way from the first day I put on the stilts and wobbled my way around to the final performance when Scrooge and I took an extra beat at the end of our scene to say a silent goodbye.

Talking of those stilts, you also wouldn't believe the muscles that hurt after wearing them. There were several performances where my legs would be trembling from the effort in standing still as some action happened on some other part of the stage. You don't realize the effort needed until you don this 50lb costume with three layers of padding and then just stand there as the Cratchit's sing their song. At least I never fell down wearing them (which would have been an adventure, let me tell you), although there were a couple of times it was a close shave.

I'd like to thank the wonderful audiences we had throughout the run. Everybody seemed to enjoy it, although I must say it was the kids in the audience that seemed to enjoy it the most. I talked to a few of them after performances and they were fascinated with the whole production, how the smoke worked, how Marley came up out of the floor (and, better, disappeared into it), how the set flew in, and so on. Whenever there's an opportunity for kids to look behind the magic of the theatre, there's always a line of them waiting.

And of course thanks to those fine people at the FAC (you know who you are!) who let us Ghosts write about what was going on with the show. I certainly had fun doing these blog entries.

And with that, see you next time!

Cheers, Julian

GXP: "'Twas the last week of 'Carol'"

‘Twas the last week of “Carol” and every last soul
Was in full show mentality, ready to roll.
They’d survived fifteen shows, only five more were left
And they certainly planned for the last to be best.

They were gathered on stage: the fruit vendors and merchants,
Poultry sellers and cobblers, housemaids and street urchins,
Here a laundress, a charwoman, stagecoach conductor,
There the odd undertaker or school-house instructor.

There were ghosts of the Past, Present, Future, and Marley
(With his chains you’d have thought he’d come in on a Harley)
The Fezziwigs, young Scrooge, and Tiny Tim, too,
With his parents, the Cratchits, and their lovely brood.

And the prototype Grinch, our own finest of Scrooges,
In this role he could range from King Lear to Three Stooges
There were sixty-four characters, twenty-six players
They’d pulled through on caffeine, chocolate, hugs, and some prayers.

They’d survived the late nights, backstage accidents, too,
Snowy weather and ice and a Scrooge-like review,
But their faces were glowing, their hearts were replete
Knowing well-meaning strangers would fill every seat!

Peace to every heart,

GXP
(AKA Amy Brooks)

2007 Fine Arts Center highlight reel

Check out our 2007 Year-in-Review video, featuring all the highlights of the past year ... the grand opening of our new building, award-winning theatre productions, groundbreaking exhibitions, special guests and more!

Week Three: Here we go again!

‘Twas week three after op’ning and all of the cast
Was exhausted and weary, their eyes at half-mast
But a feeling was brewing, a sense in the air
That a SaGaJi audience soon would be there.

They’d survived ten performances, ten more to go
With the crew and the costumers, all were in tow
The whole team was regrouping, and stoking their engines
For another attempt at the show, with a vengeance.

The singing and acting and dancing parts, too
Seemed sharper and clearer and easier to do
The effects were lots smoother, things coming together
(Now if only they’d have some good luck with the weather!)

They were psyched, in a word, to go at it again!
To perform for their fam’lies, co-workers, and friends
Now the only thing missing, to make hearts replete
Was a herd of warm bodies, to warm unfilled seats.

Come share in the Christmas fun!

All the best,
GXP (Amy Brooks)

Nine Denver Post Ovation Award nominations for Into the Woods

The Fine Arts Center Theatre Company's production of 'Into the Woods' was nominated for nine 2007 Denver Post Ovation Awards, including "Best Musical," "Best Ensemble" and "Best Director."

In a May 25, 2007, review entitled, "Colorado Springs troupe's Broadway-worthy musical," Denver Post critic John Moore wrote: "(W)ith its latest big-bang, big-bucks to-do, the FAC again proves that nobody, but nobody, does musicals like they do musicals to our south.”

Out of 154 productions reviewed or observed by Denver Post critics, 'Into the Woods' was the second-most nominated production in the state.

The nominations included:

Best Musical
FAC Theatre Company's Into the Woods

Actor, Musical
Kelly Walters, (The Baker)

Director, Musical
Alan Osburn

Supporting Actress, Musical
Mercedes Perez, (The Witch)
Sally Lewis Hybl, (Cinderella)

Ensemble
FAC Theatre Company's Into the Woods

Best Band
Roberta Jacyshyn

Musical Number
“Opening," Mary Ripper Baker and Roberta Jacyshyn

Set Design
Christopher L. Sheley

Finalists were culled from Colorado productions opening after Jan. 1, 2007, that were either reviewed or observed by Denver Post critics. Winners have been selected by theater critic John Moore and will be published Dec. 30. Readers can go online now and vote for their favorite in major categories for "Readers Choice" selections at denverpost.com/theater.

Ghost: Are you ready for a taste sensation?

A couple of weeks ago, I nipped into Whole Foods on Academy to buy something for dinner. As I wandered around the produce section, I was cornered by one of the produce guys who urged me to try out a slice of apple and a piece of aged Parmigiano Reggiano. He promised a taste sensation, so I did and yes by gum it was delicious. I chatted to him for a little while and throughout he was enthusiastic about this particular combination and about helping customers getting to love it too. So much so that I bought a pound of the apples and some of the cheese, so that my wife could try it too.

This got me thinking about my job as an actor. Through my performance I have to entice you the audience member to enter our made-up world, to suspend your belief, to be entertained, to feel as if you've had the best evening at a theater you've ever had. Anything less and I would be failing you. After all, I and my fellow actors have but 18 chances to woo you with our show. Come the evening of December 23rd, a mere three weeks away, it'll be all over and we'd have lost our chance.

When you come to one of our performances, I'll be there with my plate of apple and cheese slices -- at least in a metaphorical sense -- and inviting you to partake and enjoy the sensation. I am enthusiastic about this show and love becoming the Ghost of Christmas Present.

But, unlike the goods my friend the Whole Foods stacker was showing me, my performance is never quite the same. It's weird: you'd think that now we've rehearsed the heck out of this show, everything would be constant. But no, there are always slight differences in everyone's performance. We're always striving to find something new in the way we perform to make things clearer, to give more depth to the characters, to entertain the audience. So some nights, I look at Scrooge in a different way or at a different place than before or say my line in a slightly different way. Bob Rais, who plays Scrooge, will then play off that, and suddenly there's something more truthful about the relationship between the Ghost and Scrooge, something that will resonate better with the audience. The whole performance becomes heightened.

So are you ready for a taste sensation?

Cheers, Julian
Ghost of Christmas Present

GXP: Ah! The things we do for the theater!

"A Christmas Carol" is officially open, and now the work begins! We made it through opening weekend, and things started to click by the end of the weekend. From Thursday's Preview audience through Sunday's matinee audience, the crowds were gracious and friendly, and seemed to enjoy the show. Some even stood at the end!

I have been brain dead and tired to the bone marrow this week, and I suspect I am not alone. Now we will muster our energy, re-gather our strength, focus our minds, clear our throats, and head into a five-performance weekend of shows. My skin hurts, thinking of all those make-up changes. Friday night, after the show, will be photo call. This will involve full costume and make-up changes, all over again, and photo poses late into the night. (May I confess, that while I am in favor of the creation of a photo archive, photo call night is not my favorite...).

Ah! The things we do for the theater!

We are now hoping for full and enthusiastic houses. The weather seems a little warm yet to feel Christmassy. Maybe our show will help folks along, and give them a touch of Christmas in their hearts to fuel them through the shopping madness. I'm excited to get to it again.

Cheers to all,
GXP (Amy Brooks)

Three Ghosts interview with Cheyenne Edition

A Christmas Carol: Fine Art Center Festivity
By Chelley Gardner Smith

It’s not even Thanksgiving yet, and stores all over town have decked the halls and put up the lights with glimmering price tags to boot. It’s enough to make the elves weary of Christmas if not the humans, but there may be a little spot where you can go to reconnect with the meaning of Christmas and its message of love and hope.

“A Christmas Carol,” originally written by Charles Dickens, is being performed at the Fine Arts Center Nov. 30 through Dec. 23, five times a week and twice on Saturday.

Robert Rais plays the irascible old Scrooge. If you saw him in Hamlet as the grave digger, or Fisk in Zorro, you know that Rais is someone you don’t want to miss. Ornery and clever are too subtle adjectives for him.

And the best actors don’t stop there. You’ve seen Amy Brooks in many plays in town. She plays the Ghost of Christmas Past, and much to the envy of other actors, gets to fly about the stage. Says Sheley, stage production director, “She is amazing. I realized when she was on stage I was just hanging on her every word. Then between acts she comes out (to talk) to everyone and she’s like ‘Hey, how’s it going?’ Then she returns to the stage and, she’s right there. She is amazing.”

Julian Bucknall who recently played Polonious in Theatreworks, Hamlet, has joined the crew. He will be the Ghost of Christmas Present. Before being in Colorado Springs, he was a Londoner. He will wear stilts and be an amazing 7’ tall on stage.

Halee Towne, a Wasson graduate, under the fine tutelage of Ms. Vogel, is playing the very scary Ghost of Christmas Future. She went to college, then to China, and yes, she speaks Chinese, and then people in China encouraged her to get serious about theatre, so she went to London and studied there for a year. Says Brooks, “She has an amazing singing voice. Just the other day someone asked, ‘Where’s the girl with the great voice?’ that’s how she’s referred to.”

Brooks continues, “I’ve been reading the original ‘Christmas Carol’ by Charles Dickens to my daughter, Tess. She is enchanted by the story. It’s a story about second chances, and who doesn’t want a second chance? In a day of war, who doesn’t want a sense of hope; not in a corny way; but in a real way. I cry when I’m on stage watching the scenes. The play is very true to the original wording by Dickens. It doesn’t go to sentimentality. There are so many modern themes; overcoming poverty, not because of money, but because of love.”

Bucknall continues,” The story is so meaningful. Through the three ghosts, Scrooge can see what he has left behind, what he is missing in the present, and what could be if he does not change. It’s really about celebrating togetherness.”

“It seems like the Christmas Season is always so busy,” adds Towne. “The play feels like Christmas. It’s a place to come from all the craziness, sit down, rest, and reflect a little with others. If I wasn’t in the play, I’d come see it.” They all laugh.