Gilmore Creek Summer Theatre takes the summer off

WINONA, Minn. — Saint Mary’s University has announced that the Gilmore Creek Summer Theatre will not present a season of shows in 2009. Michael Charron, dean of the School of the Arts, said the university is stepping back to evaluate its professional summer theatre program, “given the current economic climate and the saturation of the arts market in Winona.”

GCST is a professional summer stock program produced in collaboration with the Saint Mary's School of the Arts.

Charron said the first two seasons of GCST featured “wonderful shows, and talented actors and directors. It was a grand experience for everyone involved.”

He added that the university plans to whole-heartedly support local endeavors such as the Shakespeare and Beethoven festivals, as well as the many community theatre productions in the area. “We're also leaving open all possibilities for the future,” he said.

Judy Myers, GCST artistic director and SMU theatre arts faculty member, thanked the community for its support. “Gilmore Creek was tremendous fun,” she said. “It provided a wonderful opportunity for budding theatre professionals, and was certainly of great value for the community. I look forward to continuing my involvement in other Winona performing arts activities.”

Gilmore Creek actors multi-talented in multiple roles this summer

WINONA, Minn. — This year’s Gilmore Creek Summer Theatre professional cast members are doing double, sometimes triple, duty during this summer’s three heartwarming offerings.

The actors — some local and others from as far away as Indiana, Kentucky, Oklahoma and Ohio — have come together to provide Winona theatergoers some light and lively entertainment this summer.

Local gals Mariah Ciangiola, playing four parts this summer, and Sarah Jane Marek as the “Little Shop of Horrors” female lead Audrey, prove that you don’t always have to go far to find great talent. Another local, Mike Speck displays his vocal flexibility as both “the voice” of the evil plant from the “Little Shop,” and Froggy Le Sueur in “The Foreigner.”

Whether it is playing the nerdy floral assistant in “Little Shop of Horrors,” the less-than-brightest bulb on the tree Ellard in “The Foreigner,” or the delightful birthday boy Henry in “The Mouse Expedition,” Tyler Bellmon brings a bright exuberance to the GCST stage at Saint Mary’s University.

Back again for his second year at Gilmore Creek is Stephen DiBlasi whose Charlie in “The Foreigner” has everyone in stitches and whose rendition of Mushnik adds new meaning to the phrase “money-hungry” in “Little Shop.”

The man behind the plant, Eric Zuber, joins DeBlasi in adding a new dimension to the lives of feral, if not too bright, cats in “The Mouse Expedition.”
“Little Shop’s” Doo Wop Girls, Libby Synder, Karin McNamara, and Ciangiola reach high notes higher than their ever-increasing hairdos.

And Kentucky newcomer Peyton Conley changes characters and costumes in lightening speed — six in “Little Shop” alone.

Multiple roles and magical moments are the life of a repertory theater actor at Gilmore Creek Summer Theater this summer. Catch this talented professional troupe while you still can. Tickets are still available for all remaining shows.

Free pre-show entertainment will be provided by local favorites Chris Kendall and Adam Stasica; desserts and beverages are available from Blooming Grounds Coffee House.

Special family and group rates are available. Call the Box Office, Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., or online anytime at www.pagetheatre.org. Tickets are $8 for “The Mouse Expedition;” Tickets for “Little Shop” or “The Foreigner” are $20 for adults, $18 for seniors or $12 for youth.

Remaining Show Dates and Times:

July 22 “The Mouse Expedition” at Valéncia Academy Theatre, 6 p.m.
July 24 “The Foreigner” at SMU’s Page Theatre, 7:30 p.m.
July 25 “Little Shop of Horrors” at SMU’s Page Theatre, 7:30 p.m.
July 26 “Mouse Expedition” at Valéncia Academy Theatre,1 p.m.
July 26 “The Foreigner” at SMU’s Page Theatre, 7:30 p.m.
July 27 “Little Shop of Horrors” at SMU’s Page Theatre, 3 p.m.
July 29 “The Mouse Expedition” at Valéncia Academy Theatre, 6 p.m.
July 31 “Little Shop of Horrors” at SMU’s Page Theatre, 7:30 p.m.

August 1 “The Foreigner” at SMU’s Page Theatre, 7:30 p.m.
August 2 “The Mouse Expedition” at Valéncia Academy Theatre, 10 a.m.
August 2 “Little Shop of Horrors” at SMU’s Page Theatre, 7:30 p.m.
August 3 “The Foreigner” at SMU’s Page Theatre, 3 p.m.

Desserts, good company, live music serve as prelude to Gilmore Creek shows

WINONA, Minn. — In addition to catching light-hearted comedies with the Gilmore Creek Summer Theatre, attendees can now also enjoy live pre-show entertainment, delicious desserts and good company — all in a picturesque setting.

Audiences attending “Little Shop of Horrors” or “The Foreigner” are invited to come onto the Saint Mary’s University campus an hour before the 7:30 p.m. performances on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, or before the 3 p.m. performances on Sundays. A full lineup of local music will be available, beginning on opening night Thursday, July 10, with Nate Gill, a rootsy folk/blues musician hailing from Australia, who specializes in finger-style guitar playing and warm, baritone vocals.

Whether strumming along to cover tunes, or on-the-spot improvisation, Adam Stasica aims to please with his original approach to the guitar. Local favorite Chris Kendall — performing tunes from his soon-to-be-released CD — is a prolific singer and songwriter whose clever lyrics tell insightful stories of life. And brothers Michael and Timothy Johnson will play both originals and covers influenced by artists like Coldplay and Radiohead.

Make sure to save room for dessert! Amy Marks from Blooming Grounds Coffee House promises to provide delicious delicacies destined to be devoured by devoted fans, including their best-selling lemon bars. Soft beverages will make the music and the munchies go down with ease. If you didn’t get your fill early, you’ll have a second chance at intermission.

Schedule:
Thursday, July 10, Nate Gill
Friday, July 11, Chris Kendall
Saturday, July 12, Michael and Timothy Johnson
Sunday, July 13, Michael and Timothy Johnson
Thursday, July 17, Nate Gill
Friday, July 18, Chris Kendall
Saturday, July 19, Chris Kendall
Sunday, July 20, Nate Gill
Thursday, July 24, Chris Kendall and Adam Stasica
Friday, July 25, Adam Stasica
Saturday, July 26, Chris Kendall and Adam Stasica
Sunday, July 27, Adam Stasica
Thursday, July 31, Chris Kendall
Friday, Aug. 1, Chris Kendall and Adam Stasica
Saturday, Aug. 2, Adam Stasica
Sunday, Aug. 3, Chris Kendall and Adam Stasica

The professional actors of Gilmore Creek will present “The Foreigner” and “Little Shop of Horrors” in repertory with the children’s story “The Mouse Expedition” July 10 through Aug. 3. “The Foreigner” and “Little Shop of Horrors” will be staged at Saint Mary’s Page Theatre, and audiences can catch “The Mouse Expedition” at the Valéncia Academy Theatre, located at 1164 W. 10th St.

Tickets are available for any of the Gilmore Creek shows from the SMU Box Office or online at www.pagetheater.org. Tickets to “The Foreigner” and “Little Shop of Horrors” are $20; $18 for seniors or $12 for youth ages 12-18. Family and group packages are available. Tickets to “The Mouse Expedition” are $8.

* Music will relocate inside the Performance Center in case of rain.

Area youth groups invited to July 13 ‘Little Shop’ matinee

WINONA, Minn. — Area youth groups are invited to a reduced-price showing of this summer’s Gilmore Creek “Little Shop of Horrors” production. After the show, the groups will have the unique opportunity to meet the professional actors — including the show’s horticultural humorous horror star, Audrey II.

Youth groups of eight or more and their chaperones are invited to the 3 p.m. matinee of Little Shop of Horrors on Sunday, July 13, at Saint Mary’s University’s Page Theatre. Suitable for children 10 and above, Little Shop of Horrors by Howard Ashman and Alan Menken is a musical based on the film by Roger Corman and screenplay by Charles Griffith. A down-and-out floral assistant becomes an overnight sensation when he discovers an exotic plant with a strange craving for fresh blood. Soon “Audrey II” grows into an ill-tempered, foul-mouthed, R&B-singing carnivore who offers him fame and fortune in trade for feeding its growing appetite, finally revealing itself to be an alien creature set for global domination! The show —under the direction of Judy Myers — has been described as charming, tuneful and hilarious, with tongue planted in cheek. Anthony Freeman is providing musical direction.

Tickets are $5 each for youth and their chaperones (one adult per eight youth) and are available for purchase through the Performance Center box office, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., by phone (507) 457-1715, or at the box office. These specially priced tickets are not available online.

“We want to provide kids with an opportunity to experience live professional theatre in a beautiful setting,” stated Patrick Grace, general manager of the Performance Center. Grace invites young audiences to bring a bag lunch and enjoy a picnic on the greens of the SMU campus before settling in for an afternoon of song, drama, and summer fun. Study guides for pre- or post-show activities are also available by contacting the box office.

As a special treat, immediately after the show, the actors and Audrey II will meet and greet the audience inside the theatre. Participants can learn the secrets of theatrical plant life, see up close how the puppet works, and ask the actors questions.

The professional actors of Gilmore Creek will present “The Foreigner” and “Little Shop of Horrors” in repertory with the children’s story “The Mouse Expedition” July 10 through Aug. 3. “The Foreigner” and “Little Shop of Horrors” will be staged at Saint Mary’s Page Theatre, and audiences can catch “The Mouse Expedition” at the Valéncia Academy Theatre, located at 1164 W. 10th St.

Tickets are available for any of the Gilmore Creek shows from the SMU Box Office or online at www.pagetheater.org. Tickets to “The Foreigner” and “Little Shop of Horrors” are $20; $18 for seniors or $12 for youth ages 12-18. Family and group packages are available. Tickets to “The Mouse Expedition” are $8.

Gilmore Creek guarantees adventure with ‘The Mouse Expedition’

WINONA, Minn. — Children and their families in the Winona area are invited to the greatest birthday adventure ever: Gilmore Creek Summer Theatre’s production of The Mouse Expedition, by Erin Malcolm. This children’s theatre production is receiving its professional premiere at GCST this summer, after its world premiere at Millikin University earlier this year.

The Mouse Expedition takes place at Henry Braithwaite’s birthday party, where his older sister Caroline has been left in charge. Henry’s mother has promised him a special gift, and when he opens the box, he discovers a compass – and a mother mouse, who needs that compass to rescue her children from the cats in the forest. The audience, taking on the role of guests at the party, is invited along to help Henry, Caroline, and the mother mouse rescue the “Meece children.”

According to Sarah St. Laurent, director of the GCST production, the production will focus on the power of the audience’s imagination. “Even if I had a $300-million budget, I couldn’t match what a child’s imagination can create,” says St. Laurent. Working with a handful of striking, iconic props and costume pieces the seven actors and the audience play with their shared imagination, which will create “a different show for every audience.”

GCST actress Karin McNamara was a student at Millikin and took part in the original production. “I’m really excited to do [the show] again,” McNamara said adding that the requirements of running Mouse Expedition in repertory with GCST’s other shows will make this “a completely new and different production.”

In addition to McNamara and St. Laurent (who is the production stage manager for GCST’s other productions), The Mouse Expedition will feature actors Tyler Bellmon, Peyton Conley, Stephen DiBlasi, Krista Hingtgen, Whitney Rappana, and Eric Zuber. Tony Freeman will music direct, and GCST’s assistant stage manager, Tracy Hoida, will stage manage.

The professional actors of Gilmore Creek will present “The Foreigner” and “Little Shop of Horrors” in repertory with the children’s story “The Mouse Expedition” July 10 through Aug. 3. “The Foreigner” and “Little Shop of Horrors” will be staged at Saint Mary’s Page Theatre, and audiences can catch “The Mouse Expedition” at the Valéncia Academy Theatre, located at 1164 W. 10th St.

Tickets are available for any of the Gilmore Creek shows from the SMU Box Office, (507) 457-1715, during summer office hours 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday or online anytime at www.pagetheater.org. Tickets to “The Foreigner” and “Little Shop of Horrors” are $20; $18 for seniors or $12 for youth ages 12-18. Family and group packages are available. Tickets to “The Mouse Expedition” are $8.

Gilmore Creek Summer Theatre to stage ‘Little Shop of Horrors’

WINONA, Minn. — Gilmore Creek Summer Theatre’s (GCST) production of Little Shop of Horrors, July 10- Aug. 2 at the Saint Mary’s University Page Theatre, will mark two milestones in Winona-native Mike Speck’s professional life.

First, GCST’s 2008 summer season will be the first time Speck has performed in Winona since Rock Solid Theatre’s production of Godspell in 2002. Second, Speck will be repeating a role for the first time: the voice of Audrey II, the manipulative man-eating plant at the heart of Little Shop of Horrors.

“I’ve done a number of shows twice – Little Shop included, actually,” comments Speck, 29. “But I’ve always had a different role the second time around, even if it was as small a change as switching which brother I played in Joseph [and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat]. The chance to tackle Audrey II again, with more experience and better technique – it’ll be a great test and great fun.”

Speck’s first time doing Little Shop was with the Fountain City River Players, immediately after graduating from Winona Senior High School. He played Orin, the sadistic dentist famously played by Steve Martin in the movie. But it wasn’t until his junior year at Luther College that he got the chance to voice the vegetable. One of his former roommates was the puppeteer that controlled the giant flytrap’s movement – and provided lip synch for Speck’s lines.

“Theatre’s always a collaborative art form, but this role obviously requires even more cooperation between actors than usual – I’m literally providing only half of the character” without the puppeteer, Speck notes. Even playing the same role, though, Speck will have plenty of work to do relearning the show. After all, he has a brand-new body this time: GCST has cast Eric Zuber, of Bradley University, as the puppeteer.

Under the direction of Judy Myers, “Little Shop of Horrors,” follows Seymour, a down-and out skid row floral assistant as he becomes an overnight sensation when he discovers an exotic plant, which he names Audrey II, with a mysterious craving for fresh blood. Soon Audrey II grows into an ill-tempered, foul-mouthed, R&B-singing carnivore that offers him fame and fortune in exchange for feeding its growing appetite. Audrey II finally reveals itself to be an alien creature poised for global domination. Written by Howard Ashman and Alan Menken, this musical is based on the film by Roger Corman and screenplay by Charles Griffith. Anthony Freeman will serve as the musical director.

The professional actors of Gilmore Creek will present “The Foreigner” and “Little Shop of Horrors” in repertory with the children’s story “The Mouse Expedition” July 10 through Aug. 3. “The Foreigner” and “Little Shop of Horrors” will be staged at Saint Mary’s Page Theatre, and audiences can catch “The Mouse Expedition” at the Valéncia Academy Theatre, located at 1164 W. 10th St.

Tickets are available for any of the Gilmore Creek shows from the SMU Box Office, (507) 457-1715, during summer office hours 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday or online anytime at www.pagetheater.org. Tickets to “The Foreigner” and “Little Shop of Horrors” are $20; $18 for seniors or $12 for youth ages 12-18. Family and group packages are available. Tickets to “The Mouse Expedition” are $8.

Gilmore Creek Summer Theatre to stage ‘The Foreigner’ this summer

WINONA, Minn. — Actors from Oklahoma, Ohio, Kentucky, Illinois, South Dakota and Minnesota will soon be arriving for the second season of Gilmore Creek Summer Theatre at Saint Mary’s University.

The professional actors of Gilmore Creek will present “The Foreigner” and “Little Shop of Horrors” in repertory with the children’s story “The Mouse Expedition” July 10 through Aug. 3. “The Foreigner” and “Little Shop of Horrors” will be staged at Saint Mary’s Page Theatre, and audiences can catch “The Mouse Expedition” at the Valéncia Academy Theatre, located at 1164 W. 10th St.

“The Foreigner” demonstrates what can happen when a group of devious characters must deal with a stranger who (they think) knows no English. The locals of a rural Georgian fishing lodge are told that an innocent, shy young man named Charlie speaks no English. As the plot progresses, Charlie overhears more than he should: the evil plans of a sinister, two-faced minister and his redneck associate; the fact that the minister's pretty fiancée is pregnant; and many other damaging revelations — made with the thought that Charlie doesn't understand a word being said. The wildly funny climax separates the “bad guys,” and the “good guys” and ensures a happy ending.

The show has become a staple of community theatre and repertory companies throughout the country because of its memorable and absurd characters, the hilarious plot line, and the wit of the dialogue. These finely developed aspects of the play allow for endless interpretations of the drama, so that no matter where you last saw it, or what company produced it, the play will provide the audience a unique experience.

The author of “The Foreigner,” Larry Shue, was born in New Orleans, La., in 1946. After serving in the Army during the Vietnam War, he began his career as a professional actor and playwright — appearing in the soap opera One Live to Live, in New York theatre and in a few films.

As playwright-in-residence at the Milwaukee Repertory Theater, two of his best-known plays were written and produced: “The Nerd,” 1981, and “The Foreigner,” 1983. Both went on to be produced on Broadway, winning two Obies and two New York Drama Critic Awards. Sadly, Shue's success was short-lived. He died in the crash of a commuter plane in Virginia at the age of 39.

Returning Gilmore Creek director Steve Snyder guarantees the professional cast will bring their own unique take on Shue’s colorful characters. Pulling talent in from throughout the Midwest and beyond insures the cast will bring to the stage different accents, views of the character development, and view of the plot’s actions.

Tickets are available for any of the Gilmore Creek shows from the SMU Box Office, (507) 457-1715, during summer office hours 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday or online anytime at www.pagetheater.org. Tickets to “The Foreigner” and “Little Shop of Horrors” are $20; $18 for seniors or $12 for youth ages 12-18. Family and group packages are available. Tickets to “The Mouse Expedition” are $8.

Gilmore Creek Summer Theatre tickets go on sale May 12

WINONA, Minn. — Audiences in search of light-hearted comedy will laugh their way through the second season of Gilmore Creek Summer Theatre. The children’s production premiere of “The Mouse Expedition” has been added to the professional theatre company’s summer lineup, which also includes the popular musical “Little Shop of Horrors” and the hilarious comedy “The Foreigner.”

All shows run July through August in rotation. “The Mouse Expedition” will be staged at the Valéncia Academy Theatre, located at 10th and Vila streets; the other two performances will be held at Page Theatre, located in the Saint Mary’s University Performance Center.

Tickets — on sale starting Monday, May 12 — will be available at the SMU Box Office, (507) 457-1715, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekdays and online at www.smumn.edu/gilmorecreek. Tickets for “Little Shop of Horrors” and “The Foreigner” are $20 for adults, $18 for seniors and $12 for youth ages 12 to 18. Family and group rates are available. Tickets for “The Mouse Expedition” are $8 for all seats, with family and group packages available.

Judy Myers, returning for a second year as artistic director, is excited to bring in two familiar classic comedies, as well a new children’s production this summer.

“Little Shop of Horrors,” follows Seymour, a down-and-out skid row floral assistant who becomes an overnight sensation when he discovers an exotic plant, which he names Audrey II, with a mysterious craving for fresh blood. Soon Audrey II grows into an ill-tempered, foul-mouthed, R&B-singing carnivore that offers him fame and fortune in exchange for feeding its growing appetite. Audrey II finally reveals itself to be an alien creature poised for global domination. Written by Howard Ashman and Alan Menken, this musical is based on the film by Roger Corman and screenplay by Charles Griffith.

“The Foreigner” by Larry Shue demonstrates what can happen when a group of devious characters must deal with a stranger who (they think) knows no English. The locals of a rural Georgian fishing lodge are told that an innocent, shy young man named Charlie speaks no English. As the plot progresses, Charlie overhears more than he should: the evil plans of a sinister, two-faced minister and his redneck associate; the fact that the minister's pretty fiancée is pregnant; and many other damaging revelations made with the thought that Charlie doesn't understand a word being said. The wildly funny climax separates the "bad guys," and the “good guys” and ensures a happy ending.

In “The Mouse Expedition,” Henry and Caroline Goldthwaite open a special present from their father and get a big surprise. Written by Erin Malcolm and Brian Blankenship, “The Mouse Expedition” is an exciting, high-energy audience participation children’s show. The play follows the journey of Henry and Caroline as they travel through the forest in search of four lost mice children. On the way, they meet lots of quirky characters and face many challenges that require the audience’s help to get through. The show is suitable for children ages 4 and older.
“The Foreigner” will be directed by Steve Snyder, a faculty member of Bradley University in Peoria, Ill., who returns to GCST after having directed last summer’s successful production of “Lend Me a Tenor.” “The Mouse Expedition” will be directed by Sarah St. Laurent, and Myers will direct “Little Shop of Horrors.” Gary Diomandes will again serve as GCST’s artistic associate and Kit Mayer is returning as production manager and resident scene designer. Anthony Freeman will serve as the musical director and Christine Martin as choreographer on “Little Shop of Horrors.”


Gilmore Creek Summer Theatre Schedule
July 10 “Little Shop of Horrors” 7:30 p.m.
July 11 “Little Shop of Horrors” 7:30 p.m.
July 12 “Little Shop of Horrors” 7:30 p.m.
July 13 “Little Shop of Horrors” 3 p.m.

July 17 “The Foreigner” 7:30 p.m.
July 18 “The Foreigner” 7:30 p.m.
July 19 “The Mouse Expedition” 3 p.m.
July 19 “The Foreigner” 7:30 p.m.

July 20 “The Foreigner” 3 p.m.
July 22 “The Mouse Expedition” 6 p.m.
July 24 “The Foreigner” 7:30 p.m.
July 25 “Little Shop of Horrors” 7:30 p.m.
July 26 “The Mouse Expedition” 1 p.m.
July 26 “The Foreigner” 7:30 p.m.

July 27 “Little Shop of Horrors” 3 p.m.
July 29 “The Mouse Expedition” 6 p.m.
July 31 “Little Shop of Horrors” 7:30 p.m.

August 1 “The Foreigner” 7:30 p.m.
August 2 “The Mouse Expedition” 10 a.m.
August 2 “Little Shop of Horrors” 7:30 p.m.
August 3 “The Foreigner” 3 p.m.

Interviews, auditions March 2 for Gilmore Creek Summer Theatre

WINONA, Minn. — Gilmore Creek Summer Theatre will conduct auditions and tech interviews for the 2008 summer season 6 to 10 p.m. Sunday, March 2, in the Performance Center at Saint Mary’s University’s Winona campus. The four-week repertory season includes “The Foreigner,” “Little Shop of Horrors” and a children’s show.

The acting company will consist of a total of nine performers. Actors should bring a headshot and résumé and prepare two contrasting monologues (not to exceed three minutes). Actors who can sing should also prepare a 32-bar song selection that best showcases their voice. Bring a battery operated media player (cassette, CD, MP-3) for accompaniment. A cappela singing is not permitted. Actors must be available for daytime and evening rehearsals.

Technical positions available include technical director, costume shop supervisor, stage manager, scenic artist, prop master, carpenters, running crew, and costume technician. Technicians must be available for daytime and evening work. For more information regarding technical positions, contact Kit Mayer, production manager, at (507) 457-1717 or kmayer@smumn.edu.

To schedule an audition or interview for March 2, contact Judy Myers, artistic director, at (507) 457-6686 or jmyers@smumn.edu.

Contract dates for actors are June 9 – Aug. 3. Technician contracts vary from May 12 – Aug. 6, depending on position. Salaries vary depending on casting and technical assignments. If needed, housing is provided on the Winona Campus of Saint Mary’s University.

Saint Mary’s University announces Gilmore Creek Summer Theatre 2008 season

WINONA, Minn. — A man-eating plant and a phony foreigner will headline Saint Mary’s University’s second annual Gilmore Creek Summer Theatre. The professional theatre company summer lineup will include the popular musical “Little Shop of Horrors”; the hilarious comedy “The Foreigner”; and a yet-to-be-named children’s production in rotation throughout July and August at SMU’s Page Theatre.

Judy Myers, returning for a second year as artistic director, is excited to bring a talented cast of performers from throughout the United States to Winona. Myers said this year’s productions are guaranteed to leave audiences laughing. “These familiar favorites will be popular with audiences of all ages,” she said, “We hope they serve as a complement to Winona’s other rich summer theatre offerings.”

“Little Shop of Horrors,” directed by Myers, follows Seymour, a down-and out skid row floral assistant who becomes an overnight sensation when he discovers an exotic plant, which he names Audrey II, with a mysterious craving for fresh blood. Soon Audrey II grows into an ill-tempered, foul-mouthed, R&B-singing carnivore that offers him fame and fortune in exchange for feeding its growing appetite. Audrey II finally reveals itself to be an alien creature poised for global domination. Written by Howard Ashman and Alan Menken, this musical is based on the film by Roger Corman and screenplay by Charles Griffith. Anthony Freeman will serve as the musical director.

“The Foreigner” by Larry Shue demonstrates what can happen when a group of devious characters must deal with a stranger who (they think) knows no English. The locals of a rural Georgian fishing lodge are told that an innocent, shy young man named Charlie speaks no English. As the plot progresses, Charlie overhears more than he should: the evil plans of a sinister, two-faced minister and his redneck associate; the fact that the minister's pretty fiancée is pregnant; and many other damaging revelations made with the thought that Charlie doesn't understand a word being said. The wildly funny climax separates the "bad guys," and the "good guys" and ensures a happy ending.

“The Foreigner” will be directed by Steve Snyder, a faculty member of Bradley University in Peoria, Ill., who returns to GCST after having directed last summer’s successful production of “Lend Me a Tenor.”

Gary Diomandes will again serve as GCST’s artistic associate and Kit Mayer is returning as production manager and resident scene designer.

GCST will also include a children’s theatre production in its 2008 season. Performance dates will be announced at a later date.

Gilmore Creek Summer Theatre Schedule
July 10 “Little Shop of Horrors” 7:30 p.m.
July 11 “Little Shop of Horrors” 7:30 p.m.
July 12 “Little Shop of Horrors” 7:30 p.m.
July 13 “Little Shop of Horrors” 3 p.m.

July 17 “The Foreigner” 7:30 p.m.
July 18 “The Foreigner” 7:30 p.m.
July 19 “The Foreigner” 7:30 p.m.
July 20 “The Foreigner” 3 p.m.

July 24 “The Foreigner” 7:30 p.m.
July 25 “Little Shop of Horrors” 7:30 p.m.
July 26 “The Foreigner” 7:30 p.m.
July 27 “Little Shop of Horrors” 3 p.m.

July 31 “Little Shop of Horrors” 7:30 p.m.
August 1 “The Foreigner” 7:30 p.m.
August 2 “Little Shop of Horrors” 7:30 p.m.
August 3 “The Foreigner” 3 p.m.

Theatre, music events highlight SMU Family Weekend Sept. 28-30

WINONA, Minn. — A full slate of events await parents and students during Saint Mary’s University’s annual Family Weekend Sept. 28-30. In addition, the public is invited to enjoy the talents of SMU students during theatre, jazz, and band and chorus events.

The weather is cooling off but the jazz is heating up at Saint Mary's. Two student groups led by Dr. John Paulson will kick off the year with a concert at 6 p.m. Friday, Sept. 28, in the Performance Center’s Figliulo Recital Hall. Tickets are $6, $4 for students and seniors. The 18-piece Jazz Ensemble and six-piece Jazz Combo I will perform from 6 to 7 p.m., and two Jazz Workshop Combos, directed by Dr. Paulson and Eric Heukeshoven, will play for a reception following the concert in the Toner Student Center Lounge.

Jazz Combo I will start off the concert playing selections from their repertoire of recognizable jazz standards like “Stolen Moments” by Oliver Nelson. Featured soloists include Sam Courtier on guitar, Matt Clementz on trumpet and Tony Freeman on tenor sax.

The big band will perform tunes like Bryan Kid's arrangement “Sister Sadie” by Horace Silver, and “Round Midnight” by Thelonius Monk, featuring sophomore Vanessa Grams on alto sax. Also included in their set will be the recognizable “Cold Duck Time” by Eddie Harris, arranged by Mark Taylor.

The SMU Concert Band and SMU choirs will perform 2 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 29, in Page Theatre, located in the Performance Center. Tickets are $6, $4 for students and seniors. The concert band — under the direction of Dr. Janet Heukeshoven — is a 77-member ensemble made up of SMU students, as well as qualified community musicians. Rehearsing twice weekly, the band performs a wide variety of traditional and modern wind band literature. Saturday's concert will include the “National Anthem,” arranged by Bowles; Vaughan Williams’ “English Folk Song Suite;” Eric Whitacre’s “October;” and Hardiman’s “Lord of the Dance,” arranged by Saucedo. The “English Folk Song Suite” contains three movements, the march, “Seventeen Come Sunday;” the intermezzo, “My Bonnie Boy;” and the march, “Folk Songs from Somerset.”

The Saint Mary's Concert Choir, Chamber Singers, and Women's Choir will perform a number of choral works, from the Renaissance to Gospel music, and in several languages including Latin and Iroquois. The Concert Choir (65 voices) and Chamber Singers (24 voices) are directed by Dr. Patrick O’Shea, and the Women’s Choir (23 voices) is directed by faculty member Peter Schleif.

The SMU Department of Theatre Arts will stage “Art” 7:30 p.m. Friday, Sept. 28; Saturday, Sept. 29; and Monday, Oct. 1; as well as 3 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 30. Written by Yasmina Reza, and directed by Dr. Stephen Bouler, “Art,” is a humorous and honest examination of modern friendship.

Reza demonstrates through comic relief what it means to be a friend. When an art lover buys a very expensive white painting (with white stripes), his best friend goes ballistic. A third friend enters the scene acting as a mediator. Reza humorously examines both subjects with the use of three characters: the man who bought the painting and the two friends who come to see it. Tickets for the performance — to be held in Page Theatre — are $8, $6 for students and seniors. The audience should be advised that “Art” contains strong language.

To order tickets for any of these Family Weekend events — or to learn more about any upcoming productions at SMU — contact the Performance Center Box Office at (507) 457-1715 during business hours, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. weekdays, or order online at www.pagetheatre.org.

Gilmore Creek, Conservatory team with Missoula for summer theatre camp

Gilmore creek Summer Theatre actors Danny Pancratz (Dubuque, Iowa) and Mariah Ciangiola (Rushford, Minn.) are photographed with 6- and 7-year-old mask-makers from this summer’s theatre day camp, hosted by the Minnesota Conservatory for the Arts.


Samuel and Nathan Graff of Winona show off their finished wounds from the make-up workshop, lead by company manager and SMU theatre arts professor Dr. Gary Diomandes.




WINONA, Minn. — The Gilmore Creek Summer Theatre and the Minnesota Conservatory for the Arts teamed up with the Missoula Children's Theatre this week to offer Winona kids a summer theatre experience they won't soon forget. Youth entering grades one through nine were invited to participate in a six-day theatre day camp that covered basic theatre techniques both on stage and off July 30 through Aug. 4. The children rehearsed with the Missoula Children's Theatre to put on the "Pied Piper," and at the same time took classes with Gilmore Creek Summer Theatre actors and Minnesota Conservatory for the Arts faculty. Classes included acting, singing, dancing, costuming, mask-making, scenery, storytelling, technical theatre, and make-up. The camp concluded with two performances Saturday. The Gilmore Creek Summer Theatre is Saint Mary’s University’s professional summer theatre company, and the Minnesota Conservatory for the Arts is an affiliate program of Saint Mary’s.

SMU launches Gilmore Creek Summer Theatre

Danny Pancratz, as Bellhop, Ashley Dillard, as Maggie, JoLeen Davis, as Julia and Chris Kernan, as Saunders, rehearse a scene from “Lend Me a Tenor”




Chris Kernan, as Saunders, and Andy Greene, as Max, rehearse a scene from “Lend Me a Tenor”





WINONA, Minn. — Saint Mary’s University’s Gilmore Creek Summer Theatre will have audiences laughing and dancing in their seats during this summer’s light and lively presentations of “Lend Me a Tenor” and “Showtune: Celebrating the Words & Music of Jerry Herman.” The shows run in repertory four times a week from July 5 to Aug. 5 in Page Theatre.

“Lend Me a Tenor,” a farce by Ken Ludwig, tells the story of a world famous opera singer who is poised to perform his greatest role at a gala season opener. A series of mishaps, including the accidental tranquilizing of the guest star, lead to hilarious consequences as the cast and crew try to save the show.

“Showtune…,” a musical revue, showcases the range of composer/lyricist’s Jerry Herman’s work, which includes “Hello Dolly” and “Mame.” Herman’s repertoire spans the Golden Age of Broadway musicals and focuses on the comic and romantic aspects of life and relationships.

“ ‘Lend Me a Tenor’ and ‘Showtune’ are great pieces to work on for the summer,” said artistic director Judy Myers. “They are definitely audience pleasers. ‘Lend Me a Tenor’, due to the energy it takes to perform a farce, demands total commitment from the actors. Rehearsing the comic timing is crucial in this type of show. It requires a lot of physical and vocal skill from the performers. But they thrive on it. They love it and are exhausted by it at the same time.

“You’d think they’d be worn out after four hours of strenuous rehearsal for Tenor, but then they turn around and rehearsal for four more hours on ‘Showtune,’ exhausting them even more with the singing and dancing required for that show. This is where their training really shows. Getting through a demanding eight hour day really tests their ability to go the distance.”

The talented cast and crew hail from Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, Iowa, Minnesota and Wisconsin.

“Most of our actors, directors, and designers come from diverse university training programs including Ithaca College in New York, Baldwin-Wallace College in Ohio, Southeast Missouri State University, Viterbo University in Wisconsin, Southwestern Illinois College, Indiana State University, Bradley University of Illinois, University of Wisconsin-Madison, University of Minnesota, and Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota,” Myers said.

Make it dinner and a show for a full evening of enjoyment; pre-show dinners are offered every Friday and Saturday. Choose from several delicious entrees, including beef, chicken or vegetarian options (along with children’s dinners). Additionally, concessions are offered before every performance and at intermission. Beer and wine concessions are also available every Friday and Saturday.

Dinner reservations and show tickets are available at the Performance Center box office, (507) 457-1715, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekdays and online at www.pagetheatre.org. The regular ticket price for either show is $15, $12 for senior citizens. Preview nights will be held Thursday, July 5, for “Lend Me a Tenor” and Thursday, July 12, for “Showtune” and all tickets will be $12.

Gilmore Creek Summer Theatre Co., Performance Schedule includes:

“Lend Me a Tenor,” 7:30 p.m., Thursday, July 5, Preview Night Discount
“Lend Me a Tenor,” 7:30 p.m., Friday, July 6
“Lend Me a Tenor,” 7:30 p.m., Saturday, July 7
“Lend Me a Tenor,” 3 p.m., Sunday, July 8
“Showtune,” 7:30 p.m., Thursday, July 12, Preview Night Discount
“Showtune,” 7:30 p.m., Friday, July 13
“Showtune,” 7:30 p.m., Saturday, July 14
“Showtune,” 3 p.m., Sunday, July 15
“Lend Me a Tenor,” 7:30 p.m., Thursday, July 19
“Showtune,” 7:30 p.m., Friday, July 20
“Lend Me a Tenor,” 7:30 p.m., Saturday, July 21
“Showtune,” 3 p.m., Sunday, July 22
“Showtune,” 7:30 p.m., Thursday, July 26
“Lend Me a Tenor,” 7:30 p.m., Friday, July 27
“Showtune,” 7:30 p.m., Saturday, July 28
“Lend Me a Tenor,” 3 p.m., Sunday, July 29
“Lend Me a Tenor,” 7:30 p.m., Thursday, Aug. 2
“Showtune,” 7:30 p.m., Friday, Aug. 3
“Lend Me a Tenor,” 7:30 p.m., Saturday, Aug. 4
“Showtune,” 3 p.m., Sunday, Aug. 5

Summer theatre auditions, interviews March 10

WINONA, Minn. - Gilmore Creek Summer Theatre will hold actor auditions and technical interviews on Saturday, March 10, at Saint Mary's University's Performance Center.
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GCST's six-week repertory season includes the comedy “Lend Me a Tenor” and the musical “Showtune: Celebrating the Words and Music of Jerry Herman.” The company will give four performances a week from July 5 to Aug. 5 at SMU's Page Theatre.

Actors should bring a headshot and resumé, and prepare two contrasting monologues (not to exceed three minutes). Actors who can sing should also prepare two song selections (ballad and up-tempo, not exceeding two minutes) and bring their own battery-operated media player (cassette, CD, MP-3) for accompaniment. A cappella singing is not permitted. Technicians should bring a resumé and portfolio in their area of interest.

The acting company will consist of eight performers, some of whom will have additional technical responsibilities. Technical positions available include technical director, lighting designer(s), costume designer, costume shop supervisor, two stage managers, scenic artist, technician/master electrician, set construction/carpenter, and costume technician.

Contract dates for actors run from June 4 to Aug. 6. Technician contracts vary, depending on position, from May 13 to Aug. 8. Salaries vary from $250 to $350 per week, depending on duties. Housing is provided on the SMU Winona campus.

To schedule an audition time, actors should contact artistic director Judy Myers at (507) 457-6686 and technicians should contact production manager Kit Mayer at (507) 457-1717. More information about GCST is available at www.smumn.edu/gcst.