Miracle on 34th Street
CHAIN THEATRE PRESENTS:
MIRACLE ON 34TH STREET, RADIO PLAY
Adaptation and Direction by Greg Cicchino
STREAMING DECEMBER 18TH – DECEMBER 21st
Benefit Performance features Special Appearances by
City Council Speaker Corey Johnson
and
New York State Senator José Serrano
While live theater may be closed, The Chain Theatre has found a way to bring the Holiday Spirit into everyone’s homes by producing Miracle on 34th Street, Radio Play! Adapted and directed by Greg Cicchino, Miracle on 34th Street, streams December 18, 19, 20 and 21. Ticket holders may stream at any time within those days. Benefit Tickets are $11 and may be purchased online at chaintheatre.org.
A single mother raising her daughter in New York City soon has her world turned upside down by a curious man who claims he is Santa Claus. A story of faith, believing in others, and the magic of the season! This program in the style of an old radio play is sure to warm the hearts of all with a colorful cast of characters.
With A Miracle on 34th Street, City Council Speaker Corey Johnson and State Senator José Serrano will be making their Chain Theatre debuts! Johnson, who represents more theatres in New York City than any other City Council member, also represents The Chain.
Prior to beginning his career in politics, New York State Senator José Serrano, held an administrative job at the Public Theater. Serrano now Chairs the Senate Majority Conference and the Committee on Cultural Affairs, Tourism, Parks and Recreation.
A Miracle on 34th Street stars, C.K. Allen (Allstate Dad ‘All Alone’) as Kris Kringle, Nyah Jude (Six Corners) as Susan Walker, Christina Elise Perry* (Chasing the River) as Doris Walker, Kirk Gostkowski (Artistic Director) as Fred Gailey, Laura Clare Browne (Animal Farm) as Mrs. Mara and Miles Dennis as her son, Mortimer. Playing various characters and showcasing their vocal chops is Nick Fondulis* (Billions, Blindspot), Doug Shapiro* (Disney’s: Finding Nemo Live Musical), and Michael S. Horowitz* (I Never Sang for My Father). Special music and vocals by Emily Mattheson* (Mrs. Potts; Beauty and the Beast National Tour). Sound and Effects provided by David Rey (Cannes Film Festival Recipient). *We wish to express our gratitude to the Performers Unions: Actors’ Equity Association, American Guild of Musical Artists, American Guild of Variety Artists, SAG-AFTRA through Theatre Authority, Inc. for their cooperation in permitting the Artists to appear on this program.*
Miracle on 34th Street continues the Chain’s tradition of presenting Holiday Theater for the whole family. Now in their 9th month of forced closure due to the pandemic, they are mounting their first virtual Benefit Production to not only uphold this tradition, but to raise funds to help cover their overhead expenses. “Like so many other small, nonprofit theaters, we are struggling to be able to pay our rent, which was covered by ticket and rental revenue prior to the pandemic,” explains Artistic Director Kirk Gostkowski.
Chasing the River
Written by Jean Dobie Giebel
Directed by Ella Jane New
Recently released from prison, a young woman returns to her childhood home—the scene of the crime that put her away when she was just a teenager. Still entwined in the memories of her tumultuous youth, she struggles to break free and focus on her future. Chasing the River is about survival, second chances and learning to bet on yourself.
CHAIN THEATRE is pleased to announce the world premiere production of Jean Dobie Giebel’s CHASING THE RIVER, directed by Ella Jane New. CHASING THE RIVER, which was a finalist for the ATHE Excellence in Playwriting Award and has been optioned for TV, will play a limited Off-Broadway engagement at Chain Theatre (312 W. 36th Street, 4th Floor, New York, NY 10018). Performances begin Friday, February 7 and continue through Saturday, February 22. Opening Night is Monday, February 10 (7 p.m.).
The production stars Carolyn Orlando as Beth, Robyne Parrish* (OBR: The Giant Hoax) as Margaret, Christina Elise Perry* (Keith Huff’s Six Corners) as Kat, David Rey (Wait Until Dark) as Sam, Sara Thigpen* (NYIT Award Recipient - Outstanding Actress in a Featured Role) as Aunt Addie, David Wenzel (Film: Meet Joe Black OBR/Nat’l Tour: Hamlet) as Nathaniel. *Actor’s performing courtesy of Actors’ Equity. AEA approved showcase.
The production features scenic design by Raye Levine Spielberg and lighting design by Michael Abrams. Greg Russ is the sound designer and Nick Fondulis is the fight choreographer. Ericka Conklin is the stage manager. Publicity by Katie Rosin/Kampfire PR.
Running Time: 90 minutes
Photos by Matt Wells
REVIEWS:
"Intense, gripping, and momentous...An outstanding example of theater that can make a difference."
-Deb Miller, DC Metro Theater Arts
"A moving and engaging night of theater that is intelligently handled by all cast and crew; Chasing the River is what good, solid theater is all about."
- Tania Fisher, Theater Pizzazz
"The drama is raw and unflinching with a dash of humor"
- Audrey Weinbrecht, Theater That Matters
"With a production of strong and talented actors that seamlessly take on an intense subject matter, Chasing The River will surely impress."
-Carissa Chesanek, BroadwayWorld
"At Chasing the River, the eyes of the audience watch the stage, wide open for the entirety of the play, except for the scenes when tears block their vision."
-Catherine Vladimirov, Review Fix
It's a Wonderful Life
It’s a Wonderful Life
12/12-12/22
Directed and Adapted by Greg Cicchino
Stage Management by Laura Clare Brown
In the style of a 1940's radio program, actors perform the story as a Christmas Eve broadcast with music and live sound effects. Join George Bailey as he learns what happens to his hometown when he makes a wish to an angel that he was never born. A story of redemption that resonates with all ages, It’s A Wonderful Life has become an American Classic.
Enjoy the timeless tale, explore what the world really would be like without you and what the power of faith and community can do. Give your whole family the gift of live theater!
General Admission: $15
Seniors: $10
Kids under 12: $5
Starring Kirk Gostkowski, Nick Fondulis*, Michael Horowitz*, Amanda Martinez, Evan Bass*, Blaire O’Leary*, Andrew Dobbie, and Emily Mattheson*.
*Appearing courtesy of Actors Equity, this is an Actors Equity Approved Showcase.
THE (Curious Case of the) WATSON INTELLIGENCE
By Madeleine George
Directed by Jean Dobie Giebel
Featuring: Christopher Dippel, Claire Engel*, and Peter Friedrich*
Tickets $25 | Students and Senior Citizens $15 (with ID)
LIMITED ENGAGEMENT
Opens: 7/10
Closes: 7/14
"MARVELOUS AND FILLED WITH MARVELS. In the Stoppardian world of The Watson Intelligence, Madeleine George's human, dramatic play takes surprising turns."
- New York Magazine
Showtimes
Wednesday, July 10 @ 8:00 PM
Thursday July 11 @ 8:00 PM
Friday July 12 @ 8:00 PM
Saturday July 13 @ 8:00 PM
Sunday July 14 @ 2:00 PM
The (curious case of the) Watson Intelligence tells the story of four Watsons: the trusty sidekick to Sherlock Holmes; the loyal engineer who built Bell’s first telephone; the unstoppable super-computer that became reigning Jeopardy! champ; an amiable techno-dweeb who, in the present day, is just looking for love. These four constant companions become one in this brilliantly witty, time-jumping, loving tribute (and cautionary tale) dedicated to the people—and machines—upon which we all depend. (SamuelFrench.com)
The play originally premiered at Playwrights Horizons in 2013 and went on to be a finalist for the 2014 Pulitzer Prize in Drama and the winner of the 2014 Outer Critics Circle John Gassner Memorial Playwriting Award. The Chain Theatre revival, under the direction of Jean Dobie Giebel (Chasing the River, Bright and Brave, A Stain Upon the Silence: Not I and Footfalls), features Christopher Dippel, Claire Engel*, and Peter Friedrich*.
Madeleine George’s plays include Hurricane Diane (NY Times Critic’s Pick), Seven Homeless Mammoths Wander New England (Susan Smith Blackburn Award finalist), Precious Little, and The Zero Hour (Lambda Literary Award finalist). Madeleine is the recipient of a Whiting Award, the Princess Grace Playwriting Fellowship, and two MacDowell Fellowships, and she holds commissions from the Sloan Foundation/Manhattan Theatre Club, the Big Ten Theatre Consortium, and the Children's Theater Company in Minneapolis. She was a founding member of the Obie-Award-winning playwrights' collective 13P (Thirteen Playwrights, Inc.), and was the Mellon Playwright in Residence at Two River Theater in Red Bank, New Jersey.
"[Madeleine George] juggles several deep themes with grace, wit and intellectual verve."
- Time Out New York
Jean Dobie Giebel (Director) previously served as an Associate Director for The Mint Theatre and Riverside Shakespeare Company. She has acted Off-Broadway, Off-Off-Broadway and in Regional theater as well as in numerous TV commercials. Directing credits include productions at the New 42nd Street Theatre, The Mint Theatre, Pulse Ensemble Theater, Riverside Shakespeare Company, the ATA Chernuchin Theater, 45th Street Theatre and Dixon Place. Jean is a Professor of Drama and Associate Dean for Curriculum and Personnel for the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences at Hofstra University where she has directed over 40 collegiate productions. Her new play, Chasing the River, has been optioned for TV. Member: SAG/AFTRA, SDC, and DG. More info at jeandobiegiebel.com
Christopher Dippel (Merrick) is a founding member of the New York Neo-Futurists, who have been performing weekly at the Kraine Theater since 2006. His other New York credits include productions at the Cherry Lane, Lucille Lortel, Dixon Place and HERE. His regional credits include Indiana Repertory Theatre, Brown County Playhouse and Trinity Rep as part of the Providence Improv Festival. His original works for Too Much Light Makes the Baby Go Blind and The Infinite Wrench have been produced in New York, Chicago, San Francisco, and Australia as part of the Melbourne International Comedy Festival. He holds an MFA in Acting from Indiana University, Bloomington. Chris teaches Acting at Hofstra University.
Claire Engel* (Eliza) was last seen as Arlene in Baby with the Broadway Training Center of Westchester. New York credits include: The Producer's Club, New 42nd Street Theater, and APAC. Claire’s Regional credits include: The Old Globe, The Odyssey, The Phoenix, Berkshire Theatre Festival, and Indiana Repertory Theatre. She has toured with The Windy City Players and appeared in the outdoor drama, Tecumseh!. She is an alum of Occidental College, and earned her MFA in Acting from Indiana University, Bloomington.
Peter Friedrich* (Watson) is a professor and community theatremaker from Jackson, Mississippi. He has worked at the Oregon Shakespeare Festival and the Goodman Theater, along with various colleges, refugee asylum centers and federal prisons. His most recently led work, Purple vs. White, was created by the men’s football team at Millsaps College. Acting credits include a Lincoln Center national tour of Wendy Wasserstein’s The Sisters Rosensweig, Saturday Night Live and Sesame Street. A loyal clown devotee of Christopher Bayes and Zach Fine, he received his MFA from the American Conservatory Theatre.
Emilio "Max"well Cerci (Lighting and Sound Design) is a socially and politically charged director and light designer based in New York. Max currently works as an Assistant to Tony Award winning producer, Hunter Arnold on both Hadestown and Frankie & Johnny in the Clair de Lune on Broadway. His most recent design credits include: Spring Awakening (LD) at Irondale Center, Grounded (AD) at Irondale's "On Women" Festival, The Life of Galileo at The Irondale Center (ALD), The Puppet Master at La MaMa's Puppet Slam (Directing), Perry Street Theatrical's Chasing the River (Light Design), Ron Fassler's Up in the Cheap Seats at 54 Below (AD). Max is a graduate from Hofstra University with a BFA in Theater Arts with a concentration in Directing and Light Design. More info at EmilioMaxwellCerci.com
Katelyn Quinones (Costume Design) is a BFA performance major at Hofstra University where she has appeared as Joan of Arc in The Saint Plays, Van's sister in Dog Sees God, and the Milky White puppeteer in Into the Woods. Her costume credits include assistant costume design for Hofstra's Two Gentlemen of Verona, costume design for Masquerade Theatre Company's production of American Idiot, and Costume Coordinator for Dixon Place Theatre's Bright and Brave: a New Musical.
The (curious case of the) Watson Intelligence is underwritten, in part, by a Hofstra University Faculty Research and Development Grant. Hofstra University is a private institution whose primary mission is to provide a quality education to its students in an environment that encourages, nurtures, and supports learning through the free and open exchange of ideas, for the betterment of humankind.
*appearing courtesy of AEA / Equity approved showcase
Six Corners
Six Corners
March 22 - April 13, 2019
Chain Theatre presents
the New York City Premiere of
SIX CORNERS
by Keith Huff
March 22nd – April 13th
NYC Premiere of a new play by Emmy nominated Keith Huff (Mad Men, House of Cards, American Crime). Keith Huff's most recent Broadway production was the sold out sensation A Steady Rain starring Hugh Jackman and Daniel Craig.
Synopsis
Late one night, two burnt-out violent crimes unit detectives try their damnedest to close the puzzling murder of a CTA employee. What should be a simple open-and-shut case, however, evolves into a horrifying mystery and unearths a legacy of violence stretching back years.
“…what gun crime does not shatter lives on every side of the trigger?"
Chicago Tribune
About the Playwright
Inspired by a personal story, SIX CORNERS is the third in a loose Chicago cop trilogy that began with A Steady Rain followed by The Detective's Wife. Mr. Huff has also written Big Lake Big City (Lookingglass Theater, directed by David Schwimmer), and Pursued By Happiness (Steppenwolf). Mr. Huff is currently developing a cable series for TNT with Academy Award nominated screenwriter/director, Billy Ray.
Performances will take place at Chain Theatre 312 W. 36th Street, (Between 8th and 9th ave). Previews begin March 22nd - March 24th. Show opens March 25th to April 13th. Performances will run Thursday thru Saturday at 8PM with an additional performance Saturday, April 13th at 2PM.
behind the scenes of Six Corners
Production Team
Director: Ella Jane New
Set Design: David Henderson
Lighting Design: Ally Musmeci
Sound Design: Greg Russ
Starring
Kirk Gostkowski: Nick Moroni
Amanda Martinez: Bernedette Perez
Christina Elise Perry: Amanda Brackett*
Lenny Thomas: Carter Hutch
C. K. Allen: BJ Lyles
Nyah Jude: Katie Yates
* These Actors are appearing courtesy of Actors' Equity Association.
It's a Wonderful Life
It's a Wonderful Life
December 2, 2017 at 2pm
Join us for a FREE live outdoor performance of IT'S A WONDERFUL LIFE the Live Radio Show!
Bliss Plaza, at 46th Street and Queens Boulevard (under the 7 train)
HOP ABOARD THE Sunnyside Shines HOLIDAY TROLLEY AND SEE US THERE!
Sponsored by
Starbucks
Sunnyside Shines
with special help from Councilman Jimmy Van Bramer
Singin' All Night
Singin' All Night
Workshop Presentation and Fundraiser
Written by Kirk Gostkowski
June 21 - 22, 2017
Singin' All Night tells the story of an autistic African American teenager who is unable to communicate with the world around him and has been accused of a horrific crime. Two young attorneys are broke, desperate and take his impossible case. But everything changes when they realize he can communicate through music.
Join us for the WORLD PREMIERE reading/ workshop presentation of Singin' All Night.
We will be performing a workshop reading- lightly staged version of the new play as well as celebrating the 2017 Chain Theatre season. Talkback with creators and performers to follow presentation.
Roy Arias Stage II
777 8th Ave
Floor 2
New York, NY 10036
8th Ave Between 47th and 48th St.
Subways: C or E to 50th/ N, Q or R to 49th St
Photo by Victor Andrew Heras
Production Team
Director: Greg Cicchino
Cast
Kyle Kirkpatrick as Tom McClusky
Jill Durso as Jane Cohen
Marcus D. Harmon as Lionel Hughes
Lenny Thomas as Jerome Lewis
Peter Sander as Judge Ross
Michael S. Horowitz as Bobby/ Dr. Lebowitz
Christina Elise Perry as Amanda Pierce
Sharron Lynn as Talia
Sebastian Gutierrez as Bill/ Baliff/ Guard
Emma Cilley as Lily Nikas
In the Boom Boom Room
In the
Boom Boom Room
written by david rabe
April 21 - may 6, 2017
Chrissy, a bright young woman with a background of harshness that has robbed her of her innocence long ago, has visions of a career as a dancer. She finds herself in The Boom Boom Room, a disco/bar in Philadelphia meant to be her first step on the road to a better life. Instead, she must fight to defend her dream and keep her anger in check amid the sex and stimulation that surround her, the psychological residue of her parent’ betrayals, and the bizarre pack of suitors who follow her. In a desperate search, Chrissy careens from the seductive mistress of ceremonies at The Boom Boom Room to the earnestly friendly gay man next door to a brutally passionate lover. In its compassionate look at Chrissy’s living nightmare, In the Boom Boom Room is a piercing look at a society dangerously close to our own lives, and a drama that captures both our hearts and our heads.
Photos by Matt Wells and Victor Andrew Heras
Tickets
Tickets are $18.
Buy tickets toll-free at 866-811-4111 or
e-mail info@chaintheatre.org
American Theatre of Actors
Sargent Theatre
314 W. 54th St
(between 8 and 9 Ave.)
New York, NY 10019
photo by Matthew Wells
Production team
Director: Greg Cicchino
Stage Manager: Rafaella Rossi
Assistant Stage Manager: Sebastian Gutierrez
Production Design: Aaron Gonzalez
Costume Design: Barbara Erin Delo
Dramaturg: Jessica Cauttero
Sound Design: Jacob Subotnick
Choreographer: Sharron Lynn
Fight Choreographer: Nick Fondulis
Starring
Chrissy: Nina Kassa*
Harold: Pete Mattaliano
Susan: Christina Elise Perry*
Eric: Kyle Kirkpatrick
Al: Kirk Gostkowski
Ralphie: Paul Terkel
Guy: Deven Anderson
Melissa: Alexandra Tabas
Vicki: Tina Marie Tanzer
Sally: Cori Stolbun
Helen: Malikha Mallette
Male Dancer: Tyler Reed
*Actor appears courtesy of Actors Equity Association
A Live Radio Show: It's a Wonderful Life
A Live Radio Show:
It's A Wonderful Life
ADAPTED BY greg Cicchino
DECEMBER 15 - 18, 2016
In the style of a 1940s radio program, players perform the story as a Christmas Eve broadcast with music and sound effects. Join George Bailey as he learns what happens to his home town when he makes a wish to an angel that he was never born. A story of redemption that resonates with all ages, It’s A Wonderful Life has become an American Classic. Artistic Director Kirk Gostkowski returns to lead the cast as George Bailey.
Enjoy the timeless tale, explore what the world really would be like without you and what the power of faith and community can do. Give your whole family the gift of live theater!
Showtimes
December 15, 16, 17: 8pm
December 18, 2pm
RWS Studios
37-12 35th Street
Long Island City, NY 11101
Tickets
Tickets are $10.
Kids 10 and under are FREE!
Directions
SUBWAY
M/R to 36th Street
N/Q to 39th Ave
BUS
Q101 to Northern Blvd/34 St
Production Team
Production Design: Aaron Gonzalez
Stage Manager: Rafaella Rossi
Starring
Nick Fondulis*
Kirk Gostkowski
Michael Horowitz*
Alexandra Kopko
Patrick Pizzolorusso*
Stacy Ayn Price
Sara Thigpen*
Evan Bass Ziesel*
*Actors appearing courtesy of Actors Equity Association
Wait Until Dark
Wait Until Dark
October 30 - November 14, 2015
Wait Until Dark
by Frederick Knott | Adapted by Jeffrey Hatcher
October 30 – November 14, 2015
Following the success of critically acclaimed productions of THE PILLOWMAN, NYIT Outstanding Revival Nominee 2015 TALK RADIO, and ONE FLEW OVER THE CUCKOO’S NEST; Variations Theatre Group will present a newly adapted version of the classic thriller, WAIT UNTIL DARK, never before seen within the five boroughs of New York City, opening on October 30, 2015 at The Chain Theatre. Forty-seven years after WAIT UNTIL DARK premiered on Broadway, Jeffery Hatcher has adapted Frederick Knott’s 1966 original, giving it a new setting. In 1944 Greenwich Village, Susan Hendrix, a blind, yet capable woman, is imperiled by a trio of men in her own apartment, tormentors who will stop at nothing to get what they want. As the climax builds, Susan discovers that her blindness just might be the key to her escape, but she and her tormenters must wait until dark to play out this classic thriller’s shattering conclusion.
This chilling new version of WAIT UNTIL DARK under the direction of John Arthur Long and VTG Artistic Director Kirk Gostkowski will include: Christina Elise Perry* (Fool for Love) as Susan Hendrix, Paul Terkel (The Pillowman) as Mike, Patrick Pizzolorusso* (The Last Cyclist) as Sam Hendrix, David Rey (The Bear) as Carlino, Schuyler Press (Theresa Is A Mother) as Gloria, Kelsey Bowens (The Adventures of Nicholas Nickelby) as Lisa, and Kirk Gostkowski (Talk Radio) as Roat.
REVIEWS
“Director John Arthur Long builds suspense and deception with a well planned strategy… Gostkowski excels as the ruthless murderer…His withering stare and wild, wild outbursts are perfect for this production. Christina Elise Perry’s well blended combination of vulnerability, stubbornness and intelligence help add to the drama’s suspense… Irritating police sergeant Carlino (David Rey) earns our dislike and our suspicions. It’s Mike (Paul Terkel) who demonstrates the greatest ambiguous emotions and confusing loyalties… Kudos to everyone behind the scenes.”
— Cliff Kasden, A View From the Cliff
“As blind Susan Hendrix, played by a radiant Christina Elise Perry… captures this once strong and sighted woman who now feels helpless. Paul Terkel and Christina Perry have terrific chemistry. Gostkowski dazzles with his abilities. He is scary, funny, disturbing and disgusting all at once.”
— Kevin Zimmerman, Times Ledger
“The set is absolutely beautiful and realistic, from the rain dripping outside the window when the play opens to the props and set pieces on the stage. The refrigerator and stove are authentic and the lighting is clever and perfect and draws you in from the moment you enter. Production Design for WAIT UNTIL DARK is by Aaron Gonzalez. Christina Elise Perry delivers. From the minute the play opens, you get the sense that this young woman is blind and vulnerable in unimaginable ways. There is no doubt that she is about to go on a journey that will test her and perhaps scar her forever. Perry is talented and focused and real in the part. As the psychotic Roat, company founder, co-director and actor, Kirk Gostkowski, is a menace. His “Roat” is weird and at times funny in a scary, disturbing way. His final scenes are fun to watch. He is threatening from the start and if you don’t already know the story, there are moments that will surprise and shock you and give you an added jolt. Overall, every character carries his or her weight in terms of performance and has standout moments during the play, including Paul Terkel as Mike, Patrick Pizzolorusso as Sam Hendrix, David Rey as Carlino, Kelsey Bowens as Lisa. But I would not feel right if I didn’t point out one performance in particular: a special shout out goes to the young Schuyler Press who plays Gloria. She was spot-on perfect and does an outstanding job. This youngster has a future in acting.”
— Roger Gonzalez, Local Theatre NY
Poster Design by Rebecca Kollmer & Poster
Photography by Sean MacBride Murray
Still Photography by Matt Wells
production team
Director: John Arthur Long & Kirk Gostkowski
Production Designer: Aaron Gonzalez
Associate Production Designer: Kelsey Bowens
Sound Design: Greg Russ
Assistant Lighting Designer: Christian Neely
Stage Manager: Rafaella Rossi
Producer: Greg Cicchino
Starring
Susan Hendrix: Christina Elise Perry*
Mike: Paul Terkel
Carlino: David Rey
Gloria: Schuyler Press
Sam Hendrix: Patrick Pizzolorusso*
Lisa: Kelsey Bowens
Roat: Kirk Gostkowski
*Actors appearing courtesy of Actors Equity Association
The Pillowman
The Pillowman
September 18 – October 3, 2015
The Pillowman
by Martin McDonagh
September 18 – October 3, 2015
Following on its success of TALK RADIO (NYIT Award nominee) and ONE FLEW OVER THE CUCKOO’S NEST, Variations Theatre Group will present Martin McDonagh’s THE PILLOWMAN, opening on September 18, 2015 at The Chain Theatre. With echos of Stoppard, Kafka, and the Brothers Grimm, THE PILLOWMAN centers on a writer in an unnamed totalitarian state who is being interrogated about the gruesome content of his short stories and their similarities to a series of child murders. The result is an urgent yet surprisingly hilarious theatrical masterpiece; an unflinching examination of the very nature and purpose of art.
Under the direction of Greg Cicchino, the cast of PILLOWMAN will include:, Deven Anderson (HURLYBURLY) as Tupolski, Paul Terkel (ONE FLEW OVER THE CUCKOO’S NEST) as Ariel, Kyle Kirkpatrick (ALICE!) as Michal, and VTG Artistic Director Kirk Gostkowski (TALK RADIO) as Katurian.
The poster art and accompanying gallery exhibition which to be displayed in the Chain Theatre Sisu Gallery through the run of the show is by Tyler Huges.
reviews
“Easily one of the BEST REVIVALS on the Off-Off-Broadway scene this year… A MASTERFUL PERFORMANCE by an indefatigable Kirk Gostkowski…the production is directed with CONCISE ASSURANCE by Greg Cicchino and acted with STARK FOCUS by the fine cast centered by Gostkowski’s SMASHING PERFORMANCE.. An EVILLY STRAIGHT-UP Deven Anderson…an equally effective Paul Terkel… and a KNOCKOUT turn by Kyle Kirkpatrick.”
— Blog Critics
“The police, played in a delightfully manic key by Deven Anderson and Paul Terkel. Gostkowski expertly manages the wide range of emotions Katurian runs through when it comes to his brother, from protector to accuser to ultimately savior-of-a-sort. Kyle Kirkpatrick beautifully captures the nuances… in an OUTSTANDING PERFORMANCE. KUDOS… to director Greg Cicchino.”
— Times Ledger
“It’s not a light evening of theatre, but one hell of a thought provoking one. Whether you saw it when it was last on Broadway or not, you should head out to Long Island City and see this truly talented ensemble displaying spectacular performances. You may be uneasy watching it, but you won’t be disappointed.”
— The ArtsWire Weekly
Director: Greg Cicchino
Production Designer: Aaron Gonzalez
Film Direction: David Rey
Associate Production Designer: Kelsey Bowens
Stage Manager: Zach Shinske
Producer: Christina Perry
Production Intern: SanMartin Garcia
starring
Katurian: Kirk Gostkowski
Tupolski: Deven Anderson
Ariel: Paul Terkel
Michal: Kyle Kirkpatrick
One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest
One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest
April 10 - 25, 2015
ONE FLEW OVER
THE CUCKOO’S NEST
by Dale Wasserman
Based on the novel by Ken Kesey
April 10-25, 2015
A mordant, wickedly subversive parable, set in a mental ward, the play chronicles the head-on collision between its hell-raising, life-affirming hero R. P. McMurphy and the totalitarian rule of Nurse Ratched. McMurphy swaggers into the mental ward like a blast of fresh air and turns the place upside down. But McMurphy’s revolution against Nurse Ratched and everything she stands for quickly turns from sport to a fierce power struggle with shattering results. ONE FLEW OVER THE CUCKOO’S NEST is based on the award winning novel by Ken Kesey of the same name, which also inspired the legendary film which garnered 5 Academy Awards.
Reviews
"BRAVO!…We are left breathless from this intense and unforgiving indictment of once commonplace institutionalized brutality. Kirk Gostkowski and Leigh Anne West as bizarre sides of the same coin, are riveting and charismatic. Supporting players in the day room are flawless. Since every seat is just inches from the stage, the audience feels the intense pull of the actor’s emotions and their unfortunate circumstances. Kudos to the entire production and creative staff."
— Queens Courier
"You’re not crazy, Variations Theatre group delivers a knock-out 'One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest.'"
— Times Ledger
"'One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest' soars to complex heights."
— Broadwayworld.com
Director: Greg Cicchino
Associate Director: John Arthur Long
Production Design: Aaron Gonzalez
Producer: Christina Perry
Starring
McMurphy: Kirk Gostkowski
Nurse Ratched: Leigh Anne West*
Bromden: Constantin Tripes
Harding: Mark A. Keeton*
Billy Bibbit: Victor Albaum
Scanlon: Michael Selkirk*
Cheswick: Doug Stone*
Martini: Sean MacBride Murray
Nurse Flinn: Maria Prudente*
Warren: Kyle Kirkpatrick
Williams: Lenny Thomas
Dr. Spivey: Michael Horowitz*
Candy: Jacklyn Collier*
Sandra: Alexandra Kopko
Ruckly: Paul Terkel
Turkle: Steven Martin
*Appears courtesy of Actors Equity Association
Sci-Fi Radio Plays
Sci-Fi Month
February - march 2015
Sci-Fi Month
February - March 2015
After the success of radio plays TALK RADIO and IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE at The Chain Theatre, as well as the success of The Usual Rejects with action parodies of ROADHOUSE and DIE HARD, Variations Theatre Group is announcing a month of SCI-FI themed radio, film and parody programming at The Chain Theatre.
20,000 Leagues Under the Sea
A LIVE RADIO PLAY
February 27 at 8pm, February 28 and March 1 at 2pm
“The Earth does not need new continents. It needs new men.”
Years before their appearance, Jules Verne foretold the submarine, the balloon, the airplane, the telephone… But perhaps his greatest writing achievement was the complex character of Captain Nemo, the tragic star of 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea.
Featuring:
Aaron Gonzalez, Timothy J. Cox, Christina Perry, Chris Harcum, Chris Sutton and Nick Fondulis
*Both Radio Play performances will be accompanied by a bonus reading of a chapter from the universally and infamously renown tome – The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy – championing the immortal words “DON’T PANIC!”**
WAR OF THE WORLDS
A LIVE RADIO PLAY
February 13 at 8pm, February 15 at 2pm
Based on the iconic paranoia-inducing alien-invasion novel of the same name by H.G. Wells, this is a live reenactment of the same radio program played on October 30, 1938 that produced a panic across the nation.
Featuring: Chris Catalano*, Alexander Pappas*, Doug Shapiro*
*Appearing courtesy of Actors Equity Association
The Usual Rejects Present
This is Heavy: BACK TO THE FUTURE
February 21, Doors at 7pm
What the hell’s a gigawatt?!? Time to turn that peeping-tom-science-fiction nerd of a father into a real hero and avoid the hormonal advances of your adolescent mother. While your at it, dodge Libyan terrorists, shape up a wild-eyed scientist and OH YEAH, help put Chuck Barry on the map. THIS IS HEAVY. Its the one you’ve been waiting for – we’re going Back to the Future. Roads? Yeah…we totally still need them.
Chain Theatre Comedy Nights Presents:
Benny & Griff: Go to Space!
Thursday, February 19th at 8PM
THE LAST STARFIGHTER
Friday February 20th at 8pm | 21 +
Cinema Under The Influence is back–hot on the high-heels of a sold-out screening of “The Birdcage”–with a special presentation of 1984′s coming-of-age, sci-fi gamer classic “The Last Starfighter” (1984, Dir. Nick Castle, Runtime 101 minutes.) Often imitated but never bested, “Starfighter” is the story of Alex, a seemingly average teen stranded in the middle of anywhere America who realizes his life is meant for more after achieving the high-score on a gas station arcade game. Featuring a cutting-edge ’80s mash-up of practical effects, creature make-up, and CGI, this underrated gem is space opera of the highest caliber and demands to be seen big, played loud, and experienced under the influence!
The movie will be preceded by “If You’re So Smart, Why Aren’t You Rich?” (1992, Dir. Eric Radomski, Runtime 22 minutes) a classic episode of the groundbreaking “Batman: The Animated Series” featuring the first appearance of The Riddler as Batman and Robin fight their way out of a treacherous virtual game.
Our program will feature critical writings and reflections from NYC artists and gamers, a raffle with donations from local businesses, and complimentary beer from Finback Brewery with your ticket purchase. Raffle sponsors for this event include The Chain Theatre, Queens Comfort, 8 Bit & Up Video Games, España Streb Trapeze Academy, Royal Collectibles, Videology, and more.
Hurlyburly
Hurlyburly
February 14 - March 1, 2014
Hurlyburly
February 14 - March 1, 2014
by David Rabe
Set in the cocaine-and-sex infused Hollywood Hills of the mid-1980s, HURLYBURLY is a chilling comedy focusing on compelling characters caught in a world of parties, backbiting, lies, and self-obsession in the decade of decadence. But a string of encounters with destiny convinces one of them to dig beneath the surface to discover his soul.
Reviews
“A powerful revival! Variations Theatre Group is one of the very best off off Broadway companies around. Terrific! This is a well-directed and well-performed powerful, gritty play, depicting the levels of depravity to which men (and women) may descend. Not to be missed!”
— A Seat on the Aisle
“Entertaining, unexpected and masterful! Immersive theatre! The protagonist – Eddie – is played by the superbly talented Kirk Gostkowski. He would not be able to achieve his outstanding performance without the support of an impeccable ensemble. Rich Ferraioli’s direction is what allows these talents to shine because he uses every single inch of the stunning set to keep his actors always on the move. Ferraioli has choreographed a piece that flows with energy and clarity and, impossibly, considers every sightline to ensure full audience engagement. This show at The Chain Theatre has not a single weak link!”
— The Public Reviews
“The cast lives up to the demands of the script: Kirk Gostkowski’s Eddie lies at the center of this (sometimes self-inflicted) maelstrom, and often holds back with a dead-eyed coolness that erupts into concentric circles of furious self-absorption; his energy does not flag, and he does the heavy lifting of the piece with eager aplomb!”
— New York Theatre Experience
“Wonderful! The costumes, lighting, props and music are all period specific, and help create an absolute immersive experience into the narcissistic, neutron bomb-fearing, drug-hazed melee that was the mid-1980s. The almost constant consumption of weed, dope and booze is literally right in your face, to the point that you almost get a contact high. Kirk Gostkowski as Eddie, Deven Anderson as Mickey, Brandon Scott Hughes as Phil, and Chris Harcum as Artie, do admirable jobs breathing life into their characters. Each actor finds balance between the vulnerability and the rage that motivates his character.”
— Theatre Is Easy
“First rate ensemble!”
— Theater Pizzazz
“Kirk Gostkowski is well-cast as Eddie, for while likable, he’s not afraid to embrace the awfulness of Eddie either. Deven Anderson is also a standout as Mickey, smooth and cold, with impeccable timing. Christina Elise Perry, Rachel Cora and Jacklyn Collier do strong work.”
— A Work Unfinishing
“Eddie is played by a delightfully manic yet not-over-the-top Kirk Gostkowski. Gostkowski delivers a realistic performance that captures the essence of Eddie’s personal crisis with all its highs and lows. Eddie is confused, angry, hurt and depressed — sometimes all at once — and Gostkowski makes it all very believable. Brandon Scott Hughes also brings a sense of desperate urgency to lost soul Phil.”
— Times Ledger
“The production does a wonderful job capturing the caustic and bombastic feel of the 1980s and nights fueled by drugs and alcohol.”
— Queens Tribune
“Those who have never seen this work done on stage should consider going the ‘extra mile’ to Long Island City and catching this rarely revived play. Playing the central character Eddie, Kirk Gostkowski delivers the right mix of callousness and vulnerability, blending each in equal proportion. R. Allen Babcock’s set and lighting convey the appropriate seediness of the digs nestled in Hollywood Hills. David Rabe’s play, set in a house in the Hollywood Hills ‘a little while ago’ is pertinent to today’s headlines. And it still speaks to the heart.”
— TheaterScene.net
Director: Rich Ferraioli
Associated Director: Greg Chicchino
Production Design: R. Allen Babcock
Costume Design: Samantha Newby
Sound Design: Gregory Russ
Stage Manager: Garrett Guilbeau
Starring
Eddie: Kirk Gostkowski
Micky: Deven Anderson
Phil: Brandon Scott Hughes
Artie: Chris Harcum*
Darline: Christina Elise Perry*
Bonnie: Jacklyn Collier*
Donna: Rachel Cora*
*Actors appearing courtesy of Actors Equity Association
Talk Radio
Talk Radio
September 12 - 27, 2014
Talk Radio
by Eric Bogosian
September 12 - 27, 2014
Eric Bogosian’s Talk Radio—his breakthrough 1987 Public Theater hit that was made into a film by Oliver Stone—was revived in 2007 in a “mesmerizing” (Newsday) production on Broadway, with Liev Schreiber playing the role of the late-night shock jock that Bogosian himself originated. The drama is set in the studio of Cleveland’s WTLK Radio over the course of Barry Champlain’s two-hour broadcast, being scrutinized that night by producers with an interest in taking the show national, and fueled as always by coffee, cocaine, and Jack Daniel’s. Barry’s jousts with his unseen callers—ranging from a white supremacist to a woman obsessed with her garbage disposal—are peppered with insights into his character from his ex-deejay pal and his sometime girlfriend/producer, and punctuated with a transformative visit from an embodied voice.
“YOUR FEAR, YOUR OWN LIVES, HAVE BECOME YOUR ENTERTAINMENT.”
Set in 1987 it is a darkly satiric play about a radio announcer, host of a call in program which explores the modern obsession with disembodied advice and conversation.
Pulitzer Prize Finalist in Drama 1988
Eric Bogosian is a writer and actor who over the last twenty years has authored five full-length plays and created six full-length solos for himself, including subUrbia; Sex, Drugs, Rock & Roll; Pounding Nails in the Floor with My Forehead; and Drinking in America. He is the recipient of three OBIE Awards and a Drama Desk Award, and has toured throughout the United States and Europe.
reviews
“A taut production… a gut spilling, stomach wrenching performance by the cast. Made me just about forget about Eric Bogosian and Liev Schreiber. Do yourself a favor and take the 7 train to Long Island City.”
— Jim Taylor, CBS Radio Review
“This is the way theatre is supposed to be… Kirk Gostkowski’s Barry is electrifying…Director Greg Cicchino deserves high praise for presenting a brisk, exciting and raw evening of comedy and drama at the lovely Chain Theatre, an intimate space that allowed the audience to be thrust right into the action of the play with the actors, experiencing what they experience…Do yourself a favor and treat yourself to an evening of Talk Radio at The Chain Theatre and you will enjoy an engaging evening of indie theatre at its best, with stellar performances across the board.”
— Why Leave Astoria?!
5 STAR REVIEW: “Riveting…There is nothing better than theatre that gives you ideas to mull over on the way home, and then when you get home, and then the next morning when you wake up. The actors that dispatch these ideas here do so with a talent as elegant as the arc of their story.”
— The Public Reviews
“Champlain is played with unwavering focus… Gostkowski is up to the task, and remains in charge from start to finish. He smokes, drinks, sweats, swears and carries on multiple conversations seemingly simultaneously…Interestingly, it is the unseen callers who are among the most memorable personalities. A small group of actors provides the varied voices splendidly…Under the astute direction of Greg Cicchino, the play remains gripping throughout.”
— Queens Chronicle
“It’s wonderful watching Kirk Gostkowski work his magic. Rewarding and relevant. A fun ride!”
— Theatre is Easy
Director: Greg Cicchino
Production Design: Aaron Gonzalez
Sound Design: Greg Russ
Stage Manager: Sebastian Gutierrez
Starring
Barry Champlain: Kirk Gostkowski
Stu Noonan: Patrick Pizzolorusso*
Linda Macarthur: Christina Elise Perry*
Dan Woodruff: Timothy J. Cox*
Kent: Gordon Palagi
Debbie, Female Caller: Lauren Allison
Dr. Susan Fleming, Female Caller: Kelly Jean Clair*
Ruth, Female Caller: Rebecca Hoodwin*
Chet, Male Caller: Mark A. Keeton*
Bernie, Male Caller: Peter Osterweil
Spike: Sebastian Gutierrez
Sid Greenberg, Male Caller: Doug Shapiro*
Stu Noonan (Select Performances): Nick Fondulis*
*Actors appearing courtesy of Actors Equity Association
Boogie Stomp!
Boogie Stomp
MAY 8 - 31, 2014
Boogie Stomp!
COMING STRAIGHT FROM A SOLD OUT TOUR OF RUSSIA
FOR A RARE EXCLUSIVE ENGAGEMENT!
MAY 8-31, 2014
Boogie Stomp! the Stage Play is an evening in the theater with two of the greatest jazz/boogie/stride/blues pianists in the world. Together, they tell the story of boogie woogie, its origins, subsequent history and ongoing development, and how it relates to all of American music.
Boogie Stomp! is the story of relationships. The basic elements of the original American music that came to be called blues, jazz, swing, stride, boogie, rhythm and blues and eventually rock and roll are rhythm, improvisation and syncopation. How these elements are related to the various names given to the music over the last hundred years is talked about, explained, and demonstrated in a thoroughly entertaining and “move you out of your seat” manner.
The story is told by two of the best performers of American piano music in the world, who not only inform but keep the audience smiling and moving with virtuoso performances from beginning to end.
No matter what your musical preferences, you will find something to like in this evening of wide ranging styles that are closely related to each other through their basic elements.
BOB BALDORI
Boogie Bob Baldori has been a mainstay of blues, boogie and rock in the midwest for over 40 years. He has performed hundreds of dates in venues from Detroit to Chicago, LA to New York to the White House for President Clinton. In addition to recording and performing his own material, Boogie Bob has produced and engineered over 200 albums. He also wrote and starred in ALMOST FAMOUS, a rock/musical that had five successful productions starting at the Boarshead Theater in Lansing, Michigan, moving to the Wharton Center at MSU, Les Idee in Grand Rapids, The Apollo Theater in Chicago and in 1998 at The Limelight Theater, Toronto. He also combines a law practice with his recording/performing career, representing many clients including Hubert Sumlin and Chuck Berry in the entertainment field.
Baldori has written a collection of original piano solos that will be published in October of 2005 and is completing an instructional book on improvisational piano and a book of over 250 exercises for jazz/blues/boogie improvisation.
Baldori started his career in the late sixties in Detroit with his group, The Woolies, and soon released a national hit, WHO DO YOU LOVE. In the following years, in addition to touring and performing extensively and recording on his own, he backed up Chuck Berry, playing hundreds of dates and recording two albums with Mr. Berry. In addition to Berry, Boogie Bob has worked and recorded with many other blues and rock legends, playing piano and harmonica. They include Muddy Waters, John Lee Hooker, Luther Allison, Del Shannon, John Hammond, Hubert Sumlin and Bo Diddley. Along the way he developed a style of piano playing heavily influenced by boogie, jazz, and the relentless blues styles of Lafayette Leake, Otis Spann, James Booker and Johnny Johnson. If you like classic, no holds barred rocking piano boogie, this is for you!
ARTHUR MIGLIAZZA
Award winning Blues and Boogie Woogie pianist Arthur Migliazza began playing the piano at age 9. It was through his love of Blues music and his dedication to the piano that he came under the wing of such mentors/teachers as Henry Butler, Ann Rabson and Mr. B. Aside from these direct influences, Arthur spent many years listening to and studying the recordings of piano players such as Otis Spann, Champion Jack Dupree, Jimmy Yancey, Professor Longhair, James Booker, Jay McShann, Katie Webster, and many more.
Arthur has been inducted into the Arizona Blues Hall of Fame, was a finalist at the 2010 International Blues Challenge in Memphis, TN, and has shared the stage with Albert Lee, John Mooney, Little Milton, Buckwheat Zydeco, Guitar Shorty, Saffire the Uppity Blues Women, Cephas and Wiggins, Robert Cray, Bob Margolin, Elvin Bishop, Tommy Castro, Bob Malone, Bruce Katz, Henry Butler and David Maxwell to name a few, in venues all over the US, Europe and Japan.
In addition to being a performer, Arthur began teaching piano lessons at age 15. During the last 15 years he has frequently been a part of the staff at the internationally famous Augusta Blues Week in Elkins, WV and Centrum Blues Week in Port Townsend, WA.
A common response to watching Arthur perform is “Wow, I didn’t know it was possible to play the piano like that!
Festival Appearances
Festival International de Blues and Boogie – Paris, FR 2012
Southern Arizona Blues Heritage Festival – Tucson, AZ2005, 2007, 2009, 2010, 2012
Cincinnati Blues Festival (Arches Piano Stage) – Cincinnati, OH 1996, 1997, 1999, 2001, 2004, 2007, 2009
Blues and Boogie Piano Summit – Newport, KY 2005
Notte Bianca – Voghera, IT 2007
The “Big Gig” – Monroe, MI 2012
Phoenix Blues Festival – Phoenix, AZ 2010
Dragula
Dragula
April 19, 2014
Variations Theatre Group continues its commitment
to develop new and exciting work with
Dragula the Musical
April 19, 2014
The “G” Spot, a cabaret where transvestites come for a night of carefree fun, is the home of the singing and dancing star DRAGULA. Dragula is the stage persona of Peter, a sensitive young man who finds his only true joy in life comes when performing as Dragula. The Right Reverend Bobby Swagger is determined to stop Dragula from spreading his “perverse sexuality”. Using the horrific Ma Daddy and a special formula provided by Tailgate the lesbian fortuneteller and her herbalist assistants, The Three Bitches, Swagger confronts Dragula.
After much soul searching Peter is determined not to be defeated by the bigotry of narrow-minded prejudice and with the support of his sister and his friends at the club, Peter fights back with honesty and a straightforward defiance to prove once and for all that “It’s all right to be a transvestite.” This laughter-filled, yet theme sensitive musical has the important message that if it’s not hurting anyone, people have the right to live any lifestyle they choose.
Written by
John Arthur Long and Theodore Kastrinos.
Music and Lyrics
John Arthur Long, George T. Kastrinos, and Theodore Kastrinos
Additional Music and Vocal Arrangements
Richie Iacona
STARRING
Justin Randolph, David Baldwin, Christina Elise Perry, James Lynch,
Bill Toscano, Alexandra Kopko, Carly Ozard, Victor Albaum, and Luis E. Mora.
Music Direction
Danny Musha
Choreography
Ashley Carter; performed by Ashley Carter, Vanessa Martinez de Baños,
Ariel Miasnik and Kaitlyn Pollock of DoubleTake Dance
Directed by
VTG Co-Artistic Director Kirk Gostkowski
It's a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Show
It’s A Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play
December 5 - 21, 2014
It’s A Wonderful Life:
A Live Radio Play
Written by Joe Landry | Directed by Greg Cicchino
December 5 - 21, 2014
In "It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play" adapted by Joe Landry, the treasured holiday film comes to life before your eyes. 1940s radio players perform the story as a Christmas Eve broadcast with music and sound effects. A story of redemption that resonates with all ages, It’s A Wonderful Life has become our American “A Christmas Carol.” This production will be directed by VTG Managing Director Greg Cicchino and VTG Artistic Director Kirk Gostkowski will be playing George Bailey. Enjoy the timeless tale and give your whole family the gift of live theater!
The Search For Signs of Intelligent Life in the Universe
Written by Jane Wagner | Starring Barbara Rosenblat
The Chain Theatre will be hosting a one night only staged reading benefit of The Search for Signs of Intelligent Life in the Universe written by Jane Wagner and starring Barbara Rosenblat. Barbara may be best known for portraying Miss Rosa, the no nonsense bank robber and cancer patient on Orange Is the New Black, but she also has had an extremely illustrious career on the stage and as “the Meryl Streep of Audiobooks.” As a moving critique of modern society, this barbed but humane show continues to resonate with truth and accuracy today. Come see this poignant, sharp, and laugh-out-loud funny play.
Santa Claus: In Person!
We are also very honored to have Santa Claus, live and in person on Saturday December 6th at 12pm. He will be reading the Night Before Christmas and listening to your Christmas wishes. Pictures with Mr. Claus will be available.
A Yippie-Ki-Yay Christmas!
21 + | Two drinks included in the ticket price $15
It’s HARD to imagine what would the holidays be like without the magic of ’80s Action Christmas movies. Not a world we want to live in that’s for sure; I think we would just DIE of boredom. Come celebrate the season with a staged reading parody of one of the greatest films ever made. There will be audience participation, trivia, a raffle, and drinking. Welcome to the party pal!
Comedy Christmas Special
An Evening Night of Miracle Christmas Wishes with Johan Blindadorf and Friends
18+ | Join Finnish singing sensation Johan Blindadorf along with his friends in this Holiday spectacular. Come enjoy classic Christmas songs, have a few laughs and maybe even catch a glimpse of everyones favorite Christmas character Kli Kli the broom stealing gnome.
“The best show for families during the holidays”
— The Finland Tribune
“I smell success… and miracles”
— Newspaper Gazette Herald
“I’m not afraid of the dark, stop telling people I’m afraid of the dark”
— Johan Blindadorf
We are also a Drop Off location for Toys for Tots. Please bring a NEW, UNWRAPPED toy to the theatre leave in the bin in the lobby if you would like to make someone’s Christmas brighter!
After the Fall
After the Fall
January 17 - February 2, 2013
After the Fall
by arthur miller
January 17 - February 2, 2013
After the Fall is one of Arthur Miller’s most autobiographical yet least performed works. It departs from the standard theatrical linear form and into the surreal. The thinly veiled parallels closely mirror his own experiences, deeply exploring his failed marriage and the subsequent suicide of his wife Marilyn Monroe. My Week With Marilyn and Smash may have scratched the surface of Monroe’s life, but no one knew her like Arthur Miller. With a touch of noir, this production delves deep into the tortured thoughts of a grieving man with important national and world tragedies such as the Holocaust and The Red Scare as a backdrop. After the Fall begs the question, how can you love again in the face of overwhelming adversity? It is a complex and gripping play that is a must-see for any fan of this legendary American playwright.
Reviews
“Without question, the highlight of this production is the cast. The set is minimalist, with images projected as backgrounds during key moments in the narrative and effective lighting effects...Being only a quick subway ride under the East River from Manhattan, it’s a perfect intimate black box venue in the burgeoning artistic community in Long Island City.”
— Daily Actor
— Chris McKittrick, DailyActor.com
— Aaron Botwick, Scribicide.com
Director: Rich Ferraioli
Scenic Design: Meghan Maloney
Lighting Design: Greg Solomon
Starring
Kirk Gostkowski
Thea Brooks*
Featuring
Deven Anderson
Amber Bogdewiecz
Madison Cemerzan
Coleman Moore
Amy Newhall
Melanie Rothman
Jason Daniel Siegel
Anthony Sneed
Kathleen Stuart*
Liz Tancredi
Bill Toscano*
*Actor appears courtesy Actors’ Equity Association
Some Girls
Some Girl(s)
May 3 - 18, 2013
Some Girl(s)
by neil labute | directed by greg cicchino
May 3 - 18, 2013
Variations Theatre Group’s inaugural critically acclaimed production in 2009 was Neil LaBute’s The Shape of Things. Now at the close of their fourth season, and their first as the managing company of brand new Chain Theatre, they are bringing Some Girls, another of LaBute’s biting, unflinchingly honest plays to Long Island City.
Artistic Director of Variations Theatre Group Kirk Gostkowski, whose recent role as Quentin in The Chain Theatre’s grand opening production of After The Fall was met with critical acclaim will be stepping in as “Guy”. Managing Director Greg Cicchino will be helming the production.
You have the perfect life – a great teaching job, critically acclaimed articles, and you are happily engaged. So happily that you do what any American man is prone to do – panic. Some Girls takes us across the country to check in on all the “ones who got away”. Through these reconnections we learn that you can’t win the battle of the sexes without a little bit of dirty reconnaissance.
reviews
“Some Girl(s) is a tight show with solid performances all around. It’s definitely worth checking out… profound and emotionally challenging” ~ theatreiseasy.com “A wonderful revival of Neil LaBute’s Some Girl(s)…VTG remains one of the best kept theatrical secrets…”
— ASeatontheAisle.com
“Some Girl(s) is a tight show with solid performances all around. It’s definitely worth checking out…profound and emotionally challenging.”
— theatreiseasy.com
Written by Neil LaBute
Directed by Greg Cicchino
With: Kirk Gostkowski
Amber Bogdeweicz, Kathryn Neville Brown*, Ashleigh Murray, Jaclyn Sokol and Jill Catherine Durso
*Actors appear courtesy Actors Equity Association
Some Girl(s) is an Actors Equity approved showcase