Last Chance to Buy Young Benefactors for WaterTower Theatre Raffle Tickets
LAST CHANCE TO WIN. DRAWING IS ON SATURDAY, AUGUST 22ND.
Don't miss your chance to WIN!!
WaterTower Theatre’s Young Benefactors group (YB4WTT) is offering raffle tickets at $10 each or 3 for $25 as part of its upcoming fundraising event, YBHOT: Cocktails for a Cause.
The grand prize is a trip for two to Las Vegas! But, there are also 8 other prizes to win too.
Here’s a list of all the prizes you can win:
1. What Happens in Vegas... A trip for two to Las Vegas including roundtrip airfare and hotel
2. A Hot Night Out in Addison Dinner & theatre for two
3. Hasta Manana, Baby Tickets for four to Casa Manana
4. Let's Have a House Party House of Blues tickets for two
5. Heard It through the Grapevine VIP tickets for two to GrapeFest 2009
6. Keen on You Tickets for two to see Robert Earl Keen
7. Center of the Action Tickets for four to the Dallas Theater Center
8. Breaking News Watch a WFAA newscast live and tour the WFAA studio
9. Take Me Out to the Ballgame Two tickets to a Texas Rangers game
And, what makes this an easy decision for you is that with each raffle ticket you purchase you receive a $10 dining certificate for Greenz Salads (good at either their Addison or Dallas Uptown locations).
If you’d like to support WaterTower Theatre (and YB4WTT) with the purchase of some raffle tickets, please email or call 972-450-6275. The drawing will take place on August 22nd.
Special thanks to all of our generous underwriters for their support of the raffle ticket items: American Airlines Center, Casa Manana, Dallas Theater Center, Greenz, House of Blues, Masaryk, Marriott Quorum Addison, The GrapeFest, The Texas Rangers, WFAA and WaterTower Theatre.
All proceeds support WaterTower Theatre's artistic and education programs.
For more information on how you or your company can support WTT, please contact our Development Department at 972.450.6227.
WaterTower Theatre Announces 2009-2010 Season!
WaterTower Theatre (WTT) and Producing Artistic Director Terry Martin are proud to announce the 2009-2010 season for WTT’s Main Stage Series. WTT’s thirteenth season promises to entertain and engage audiences with rousing musicals, classic dramas, side-splitting comedies and highly anticipated regional premieres. The season will consist of six fully-staged productions as well as the highly successful Out of the Loop Fringe Festival.
“Our 2009-2010 will be filled with music and laughter as we present a season of sensational musicals and playful comedies guaranteed to keep audiences entertained, as well as works that speak to many timely issues," said WaterTower Theatre Producing Artistic Director Terry Martin. “WaterTower has always strived to bring the highest level of thought provoking and exhilarating theater to North Texas and our 2009-2010 represent some of the most entertaining plays I’ve read in many years."
WTT’s 2009-2010 Main Stage season consists of:
AREA PREMIERE Grey Gardens the Musical Book by Doug Wright; Music by Scott Frankel; Lyrics by Michael Korie October 1 – 25, 2009 Behind the closed doors of a dilapidated mansion, alongside fifty cats and piles of rubbish, live Edith Bouvier Beale and her daughter “Little Edie" - the eccentric relatives of Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis. Go inside the walls of two shockingly different worlds: the resplendent Grey Gardens of 1941 and the Grey Gardens of 1973 – a crumbling shadow of its former self. Based upon the groundbreaking documentary film by David and Albert Maysles, Grey Gardens is the hilarious and heartbreaking story of two women whose combative and codependent relationship is the one pillar in a constantly eroding house.
Neil Simon’s Laughter on the 23rd Floor January 14 – February 7, 2010 It's 1953. Comedian Max Prince is the funniest man on television and his writers are the best in the business. But McCarthy is scaring the country with his 'reds-under-the-beds' paranoia and the network wants Max to dumb down his show so advertisers can sell more soap. As the bean-counters close in and the fear-mongering spreads, Max and his brilliant gang of writers struggle to keep joking. Based upon his days of writing for Sid Caesar, Laughter on the 23rd Floor is Neil Simon’s hilarious and touching behind-the-scenes homage to the golden age of American television and the crazy writers' room that became known as 'the Harvard of comedy.'
REGIONAL PREMIERE Is He Dead? A New Comedy by Mark Twain Adapted for the stage by David Ives April 1 – 25, 2010 French painter Jean Francois Millet desperately wants to marry his girlfriend Marie, but he has no money and fewer prospects. In a moment of desperation, he hatches an ingenious plot to fake his own death to drive up the price of his paintings. Yet in order to reap the rewards, he must pose as his imaginary twin sister! Written in 1898, Is He Dead? is the newly discovered Mark Twain comedy filled with mistaken identities, crazy complications and mischievous fun!
AREA PREMIERE Black Pearl Sings by Frank Higgins May 20 – June 13, 2010 In the midst of the Great Depression, Susannah Mullally travels the country, recording lost traditional songs for the Library of Congress. When she encounters Pearl in a Texas prison, Susannah uncovers a treasure-trove of unrecorded slave-era music. But can Pearl hand over her ancestor’s songs without giving up something of herself? Starring powerhouse performer Liz Mikel, Black Pearl Sings is the powerful, honest, and wryly funny story of two women from radically different backgrounds and the music that unites them.
The Full Monty Book by Terrence McNally; Music and Lyrics by David Yazbek July 8 – August 1, 2010 When the local mill experiences massive layoffs, six unemployed steelworkers are out of luck, out of cash and out of shape. Desperate to keep their families intact, they hatch an all-or-nothing scheme to make some quick cash. But will they have the nerve to follow through with their plan and go The Full Monty? Boasting a toe-tapping rock ‘n roll score, The Full Monty is a musical endowed with big laughs, big heart and a jaw-dropping finale that just might charm your pants off!
In addition to the Main Stage season, WaterTower Theatre will also produce the following season extras:
HOLIDAY EXTRA Forever Plaid: Plaid Tidings December 3 – 23, 2009 The very best of Forever Plaid wrapped up in a nifty package with a big bow on top! Filled with Christmas standards that have all been “Plaid-erized," the boys of Forever Plaid are back to do their Christmas Special. Sent back to Earth to add a little harmony to the world Forever Plaid: Plaid Tidings is one holiday treat that is truly “heaven-sent!"
SEASON EXTRA Out of the Loop Fringe Festival March 4 – 14, 2010 For the past eight years, WaterTower Theatre’s Out of the Loop Fringe Festival has wowed audiences with an exciting and unmatched artistic lineup. Featuring some of the best acts in theatre, music, dance and art from around the region, OOTL continues to bring all three spaces of the Addison Theatre Centre alive with exciting, contemporary work.
Season tickets for WTT’s 2008-2009 Main Stage season can be purchased by calling the box office at 972.450.6232. Season ticket prices range from $75 to $150. Individual ticket prices range from $22 to $40 per show. Performance times are Wednesdays and Thursdays at 7:30 PM, Fridays at 8 PM, Saturdays at 2 PM and 8 PM, and Sundays at 2 PM. For further information regarding WTT season tickets, visit their website at www.watertowertheatre.org. Season extras are currently available only to season subscribers. Prices and showtimes for season extras vary. For specific information on season extras, call the WTT box office at 972.450.6232.
For the past twelve years, WaterTower Theatre has proven itself to be on the forefront of both the regional and Dallas theatre communities. WTT has been recognized for artistic excellence by the Dallas Theatre League, Dallas/Fort Worth Theater Critics Forum, The Dallas Morning News, The Dallas Observer, D Magazine and Star-Telegram, among others. WaterTower Theatre has a subscription base in excess of 2,400 subscribers and serves an audience base of over 30,000 patrons annually. WaterTower Theatre is supported in part by the Town of Addison, TACA, The Texas Commission on the Arts, and Rainmaker Advertising.
WaterTower Theatre Closes 2008-2009 Season with the Comic Romp Unnecessary Farce
WaterTower Theatre (WTT) closes its 2008-2009 season with Paul Slade Smith’s comic romp Unnecessary Farce. It will run July 16 – August 2, 2009. Unnecessary Farce replaces the previously announced How to Succeed in Business without Really Trying.
In a cheap motel room, an embezzling mayor meets with his female accountant while two undercover cops wait in the room next door to videotape the tryst. But there’s some confusion as to who’s in which room, who’s being videotaped, who’s taken the money, who’s hired a hit man, and why the accountant keeps running around in her underwear. In the grand tradition of Noises Off, Unnecessary Farce is a side-splitting comedy sure to have you rolling in the aisles with laughter.
“We were heartbroken that we’ve had to indefinitely postpone our production of How to Succeed…," states WTT Producing Artistic Director Terry Martin. “But the recent economic situation has forced us to adjust budgets and evaluate what’s in the best long-term interest of WTT’s immediate future. Unnecessary Farce takes some of the best traits of How to Succeed…, witty dialogue, snappy timing and hysterical characters, and mixes them together to create an outlandishly funny show we know our audiences will love."
Unnecessary Farce will run July 16 – August 2, 2009 at the Addison Theatre Centre, which is located at 15650 Addison Road in Addison, Texas. Performance times are Wednesdays and Thursdays at 7:30 PM, Fridays at 8:00 pm, Saturdays at 2:00 PM (on July 25 & August 1 only) & 8:00 PM, and Sundays at 2:00 PM. Ticket prices range from $25 - $40. Tickets are available by calling the WTT Box Office at 972.450.6232 or online at www.watertowertheatre.org. Group rates are also available.
For the past twelve years, WaterTower Theatre has proven itself to be on the forefront of both the regional and Dallas theatre communities. WTT has been recognized for artistic excellence by the Dallas Theatre League, Dallas/Fort Worth Theater Critics Forum, The Dallas Morning News, The Dallas Observer, D Magazine and Star-Telegram, among others. WaterTower Theatre has a subscription base in excess of 2,100 subscribers and serves an audience base of over 35,000 patrons annually. WaterTower Theatre is supported in part by the Town of Addison, TACA, and The Texas Commission on the Arts.
###
02/19/09 - One Man Star Wars Trilogy Headlines WaterTower’s 8th Annual Out of the Loop Fringe Festival
WaterTower Theatre (WTT) is pleased to announce the artists and schedules for the 2009 Out of the Loop Fringe Festival.
A 10-day celebration of theatre, dance, music and art, the Out of the Loop Fringe Festival features performances by arts organizations from the local area and region. The Festival will run March 5 – 15, 2009. Performances will be held at the Addison Theatre Centre, which contains three performance venues: the Festival Main Stage (seating approximately 200), the Studio Theatre (seating approximately 70), and the Stone Cottage (seating approximately 50).
The 2004 Dallas/Fort Worth Theatre Critics Forum awarded the Out of the Loop Fringe Festival with a special citation for providing performance opportunities to new works and new production companies. Average attendance for the festival exceeds 4,200 patrons over 10 days.
Headlining the 2009 festival will be Toronto based artist Charlie Ross and his acclaimed one man show One Man Star Wars Trilogy.
One Man Star Wars Trilogy is a one-hour, high energy, nonstop blast through the first three Star Wars films. Charles Ross, the writer and solo performer, spent too much of his childhood in a galaxy far, far away - adulthood has been similar. Ross plays all the characters, recreates the effects, sings the music, flies the ships, and fights both sides of the battles. Since first performing his One Man Star Wars Trilogy in Toronto in January of 2001, Ross has brought countless audiences, both large and small, to their feet with his surprisingly unique shows.
The 2009 Out of the Loop Fringe Festival will take place March 5 – 15, 2009. Tickets to all events go on sale February 17. Festival Passes, which include one admission to each festival event, are currently available for $60 by calling the WaterTower Theatre Box Office at 972.450.6232. For a complete list of festival events, visit the Out of the Loop Fringe Festival website or go behind the scenes of the Festival by visiting the official Out of the Loop Fringe Festival blog at outoftheloopfringe.blogspot.com.
A brief synopsis of events and a complete schedule (including show title, production company, and venue) follows:
Synopsis of events:
Andy & Joleen Mullins of Dallas, TX Takin’ a Break from Sex written and performed by Andy & Joleen Mullins In Takin’ a Break from Sex, Andy and Joleen Mullins have taken marriage, friendship, mid-life crisis, and absurdities of relationships, along with some silliness, and have written them into original comedic sketches that range from clever to brazen. This married comedy couple invites you to sit back and enjoy their fun romp through scenes emphasizing that opposite sex perceptions are a myriad of crazy conversations and hilarious situations.
Bill Bowers of New York City, NY Under A Montana Moon written and performed by Bill Bowers Bill Bowers' critically acclaimed Under A Montana Moon is a Collection of Silent Stories, which all take place under a western sky. Performed without words and within a tapestry of sound, Bill takes his audience on a moving, magic journey through the American West. Under A Montana Moon uses the Art of Silence to investigate the Heart of Silence - in the land of cowboys and bronco busters, of painter Jackson Pollock and martyr Matthew Shepard. One of the most acclaimed mimes in America, Bill Bowers' eloquent movement evokes the deepest truths of the human condition. Often compared to Chaplin and Keaton, Bowers has truly created a style all his own.
Contemporary Dance/Fort Worth of Fort Worth, TX The One Hundreds: Phrases 1 - 100 by Twyla Tharp Contemporary Dance/Fort Worth and guests will perform Twyla Tharp's The One Hundreds: Phrases 1-100. When Tharp originally developed this dance in 1970, she wanted to address three questions she faced as a performing dancer: 1) how accurate is my memory? 2) how good is my coordination? 3) how strong is my sense of beginnings, middles and endings? Tharp created 100 eleven-second phrases in answer to these questions. Combining imagery from traditional dance techniques, sports, and popular culture, and all performed in silence -- this series of phrases is like a series of "short stories" with a variety of references and entry points for different viewers.
David Schmader of Seattle, WA Straight written and performed by David Schmader Straight is David Schmader's hilarious and subversive solo play about the world of conversion therapy, where gays and lesbians are reputedly "cured" of their homosexuality and made "straight." Plunging into the heart of this highly charged territory—from going undercover at "ex-gay" support groups in Seattle to an intensive crash course in Christian heterosexuality deep in the heart of Texas—writer/performer Schmader blends an essayist's insight with the spark of stand-up comedy to get to the bottom of what it means to be "straight."
Diwa Theater Company of Dallas, TX Cowboy versus Samurai by Michael Golamco Travis Park is a high school English teacher and the only Korean-American man living in a dusty cowboy town known as Breakneck, Wyoming. And when a gorgeous, whip-smart Asian-American woman moves into town, he immediately falls for her; the only problem is that she only dates white men. In this savagely funny and often moving comic re-telling of Edmond Rostand’s Cyrano de Bergerac, one man must choose allegiance the Asian-American and the American within himself – between Cowboy versus Samurai – in a pursuit of a love that may only be as real as the love letters he writes for someone else.
Flying Man Productions of Dallas, TX Green by Brandon Smith A brilliant young man may have found the solution to cheap universal energy . . . if only he can prevent it from slipping into the wrong hands. Green tells the story of the dire quest for sustainability and the forces determined to preserve the status quo. Flying Man Productions presents this new play as its inaugural performance.
Jocelyn Wiebe of Dallas, TX [sic] by Melissa James Gibson Melissa James Gibson's brisk, quirky play [sic] shows three young urbanites in a quarter-life crisis. Babette, an aspiring novelist, Theo, a frustrated composer, and Frank, an auctioneer-in-training share more than just an apartment building—they share their lives. Intelligent, witty, and occasionally bickersome, these three friends rely on each other as they navigate the limbo between their promising years right out of college and the rest of their lives.
Leslie Dworkin of Austin, TX Nearer Nearer is a haunting dance duet, exploring the meaning of loss, issues of identity and memory, and the tension between letting go and moving on. At times explosive, and at times detailed and mysterious, the dance is a textured journey into the unknown. The delicate and magical sound of toy piano will be played live onstage for this performance, and is supplemented by an unusual mixed soundscore.
The Mad Mamas of Dallas, TX Last Lists of My Mad Mother by Julie Jensen Alzheimer's Disease has to be one of the cruellest human afflictions, in its effects both on sufferers and their loved ones. But Last Lists of My Mad Mother magnificently reveals the humor within this tragedy, without taking away from its gravity. Veteran Dallas actresses Jeanne Evans, Pam Dougherty and Lisa Fairchild travel together through Ma's fleeting awareness and inevitable decline as she gradually withdraws into her own, unfathomable never world.
Muscle Memory Dance Theatre of Dallas, TX Breaking News: Dancing with the Media Muscle Memory Dance Theatre presents Breaking News: Dancing with the Media, a modern dance commentary on the catchy, one-sentence Sound Bites of American journalism. M2DT's 5 choreographers weave together perspectives on news sources from television, newspapers, radio, magazines, to website blogs, podcasts, and billboards. Breaking News: Dancing with the Media is an evening length modern dancework that examines the societal consequences of Americans consuming fast paced, info-tainment news culture to stay informed.
Ninety Eight Theatre Company of Dallas, TX Fairytale Blues by Joshua Bridgewater & Mary Humphrey Imagine if you will, Richard Pryor, drunk on the corner of New York City's 42nd Street belting out the Blues in a rabbit suit. That, my friend, is Fairytale Blues, an old fairytale colored with: wife stealin', dry humpin', breast fondlin', filthy mouthiness of a horn player by the name of Lil' Boy Blu, who fumbles upon Rosie Bo Peep from the Bronx, chasing her dream of fame and fortune to the land of Hollywood Hills where she meets a host of eccentric fairy tale creatures who enlighten her journey. Is Hollywood Hills everything that she imagined it to be?
Number 2 Out on a Limb presents a collection of works that evoke humor, reflection, dynamism, and discovery. The first act will premiere a serene trio Counting Sheep, as well as, a guest choreographer and Out on a Limb dancer, Rachel Bruce Johnson's (artistic director, The Bell House) Don't…Away. The second act features a full-length work that offers a personal perspective of a story through a series of relationships, events, and interactions.
Project X of Dallas, TX Some People by Thomas Riccio Some People is about an ordinary Dallas suburb. The husband, wife and kid, relatives, neighbors, and friends—some people who hear voices, stare off into space thinking of nothing, and have no idea how they got there. No matter how they try the world makes no sense. Is it a dream? A comic routine? What’s going on? As time and space fold and spin something happens to some people we know. Things are different…and they like it.
Rite of Passage Theatre Company of Waco, TX Holy Mother of God by Clay Wheeler Cal Tatum can’t seem to catch a break. Not only is he dealing with numerous failed attempts to become a screenwriter, but he’s also struggling to cope with the untimely death of his younger sister, Whitney. While his sister’s fiancé, Thommy, finds solace in his frequent conversations with the Holy Virgin Mother (literally), Cal’s journey to find peace and resolution ends in a more subtle, but equally unorthodox way.
Rocketship Productions of New York City, NY The Play About the Coach written and performed by Paden Fallis A New York Magazine “pick of the week," The Play About the Coach takes the audience courtside into the final minutes of an NCAA tournament game. As the clock ticks away, a coach tries to pull his team to victory while his own world comes crashing down around him.
SceneShop of Fort Worth, TX The Interrogation of Vince Banyon by Grayson Harper For its fifth entry in Out of the Loop, SceneShop stages the world premiere of a new work by well-regarded Fort Worth writer and visual artist Grayson Harper. In The Interrogation of Vince Banyon, a charismatic drifter is questioned by two no-nonsense detectives. As they pepper the evasive suspect for answers, it becomes clear a girl is at the center of the situation... but what, exactly, is the crime?
Second Thought Theatre of Dallas, TX Pvt. Wars by James McClure Set in a veterans hospital post Vietnam War, Pvt. Wars follows the abundant, and sometimes absurd, exploits of Silvio, Gately, and Natwick. This uplifting portrayal of everyday life in the wake of war artfully blends humor and pain, triumph and uncertainty. Laughs of every type are sure to abound in James McClure’s acidly funny portrayal of three young men working to resolve their own private wars.
StageWorks of Dallas, TX Hopelessly Puccini by Steve Lovett Hopelessly Puccini is a “date movie onstage" which believes every audience should have a chance to see themselves live, laugh, and love in the theater. It is a romantic comedy about four men and the snowed-in weekend they share. Past history collides with the present and youth with age as the four explore where they’ve been, where they are, and where they hope to be on the subject of love.
Theatre Britain of Dallas, TX Vincent River by Philip Ridley Snow couldn’t cover up the carnage and time can’t heal the wounds. Two disparate souls search for salvation and an answer to the simplest and most impossible of questions: Why?
Uncommon Ground of Dallas, TX I google myself by Jason Schafer I google myself is the unusual story of three very different men with the same name brought together by an internet search engine. What starts as a curiosity turns into an obsession that makes these three men’s worlds violently collide. The play is an insightful and entertaining window into our society’s preoccupation with fame and recognition, and how internet innovations like blogs and online chats promote one’s quest to be known, even as the same technology can lead to a debilitating isolation that increases the need for connection.
The Victims of Dallas, TX Deconstructing… The Victims are bringing highly theatrical unscripted comedic mayhem to the Out of the Loop Fringe Festival with their show Deconstructing… Each night The Victims will create a totally improvised show based on the true stories of a very special guest.
WaterTower Theatre is proud to offer this unique Musical Theatre Workshop with acclaimed Broadway vocal coach Seth Rudetsky. Taking place Saturday, December 20 from 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM, participants will have the opportunity to receive indivi- dual instruction as well as take part in a Q&A session with one of the nation's leading theatrical artists.
Participants should be prepared to sing two contrasting songs in the workshop. It is also recommended that students bring their audition books as well as a voice recorder.
About Seth Musician, actor, writer, producer, blogger and Sirius radio host, Seth Rudetsky is well known to Broadway stars and fans alike. Seth Rudetsky has played piano on & off Broadway for over 15 musicals, performed on & off Broadway including Roundabout Theatre’s The Ritz, and wrote the opening numbers for the 1998 & 2000 Tony Awards.
Additionally, Seth worked as a comedy writer for The Rosie O’Donnell Show and received 3 Emmy nominations. Rosie and Seth have a continued relationship putting together the talent, shows and events for Rosie’s yearly R Family Vacations cruise. Seth also wrote for the 1999 & 2000 Grammy Awards, and as a comic won the honor of Stand-Up NY’s "Funniest Gay Male."
Seth Rudetsky grew up as a self-confessed theatre nerd and obsessive Broadway fan. Now his obsessions are shared with America on Sirius Satellite Radio’s Broadway’s Best on which he is the host of Seth’s Big Fat Broadway, Seth’s Studio A, and co-hosts Dueling Divas. Rudetsky also hosts the weekly talk show Seth’s Broadway Chatterbox at Don't Tell Mama in NYC during which he interviews Broadway celebrities and helps them relive at least one mortifying moment in their performing careers. And as one of Broadway’s Biggest Fans, Seth Rudetsky has poured his expertise and comedy into his two novels Broadway Nights: A Romp of Life, Love, & Musical Theatre and The Q Guide to Broadway: Stuff You Didn't Even Know You Wanted to Know about the Hits, Flops, the Tonys, and Life Upon the Wicked Stage.
TV-watchers may have caught Seth on Law and Order: C.I. as Eddie Dayton or as Rudy, Erica Kane’s Las Vegas Choreographer, on All my Children.
And finally, Seth is appearing as his sassy self for all of America as he vocally coaches the contestants on MTV's Legally Blonde the Musical: the Search for Elle Woods where his sayings like “a-MAH-zing" and “Brava" are quickly catching on.
The workshop will take place Saturday, December 20 from 11 AM to 4 PM at the Addison Theatre Centre. The cost is $100.
For more information or to sign up for the workshop, call James Lemons at 972.450.6233 or email jlemons@watertowertheatre.org.
8/01/06 - Visit WaterTower Theatre on Myspace.com
Over the years, WaterTower Theatre has made a lot of friends! And we love keeping up with them on myspace.com. So visit us online, sign up to become a friend, and even leave us a comment if you are so inclinded. We look forward to seeing you online!
WaterTower Theatre’s 2009 Spotlight Gala will be held on Saturday, February 14, 2009 and will celebrate Producing Artistic Director Terry Martin’s 10th anniversary with the company.
The Gala will be Co-Chaired by Anita Braun and Allie Theisen and the Gala Committee consists of Landrie Bock, Shannon Brame, Lauren Embrey, Elizabeth Fratantuono, Kitty Goddard, Andy Gosnell, David Guedry, James Paul Lemons, Karol Omlor, Greg Patterson, Andrea Redmon and Katie Wood.
Tickets to this year’s Gala are $150 per ticket; $1,750 per table. Underwriting opportunities begin at $2,500 include the Live and Silent Auctions, underwriting the Terry Martin table, underwriting the Young Benefactors table, invitation underwriter, production underwriter, Valet Parking underwriter, and Raffle ticket underwriter.
This year’s theme is a celebration of Terry Martin’s 10-year history with WaterTower Theatre. The evening will include a specially-produced live theatrical retrospective highlighting many of Terry’s best-loved productions.
For more information on the 2009 Spotlight Gala, please contact Greg Patterson, Director of Development, at 972.450.6227 or gpatterson@watertowertheatre.org.
About Terry Martin Multi-award winning Director Terry Martin is starting his 10th season as Producing Artistic Director of WaterTower Theatre where he has overseen over 60 productions.
Some of his 33 directing credits at WTT include As You Like It, Almost, Maine, A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum, Man of La Mancha, Humble Boy, The Crucible, Take Me Out, A Country Life (which he adapted from Chekhov’s Uncle Vanya and which won the 2005 Rabin Award – Best New Play), Cabaret, It Ain’t Nothin’ But The Blues, Company, An Inspector Calls, The Mystery of Edwin Drood, The Laramie Project, You Can't Take It With You, Book of Days, Cat on a Hot Tin Roof (2002 Rabin Award – Director of a Play), Sweeney Todd (2002 Rabin Award Nomination – Director of a Musical), Desire Under the Elms, Ravenscroft, Rockin’ Christmas Party (2000, 2001), Enter the Guardsman (2001 Rabin Award Nomination – Director of a Musical), Lady Day at Emerson’s Bar and Grill and Little Shop of Horrors (2000 Rabin Award Nomination – Director of a Musical) among others. For Plano Repertory Theatre, he has directed Journey’s End (2000 Rabin Award – Director of a Play), Dracula, La Bête, Little Shop of Horrors and Pump Boys and Dinettes. Terry was named "Best Theater Director" in the Dallas Observer's "Best of Dallas 2002."
He has appeared on stage at WTT in Blackbird, The Woman in Black, Dinner with Friends, The Guys, Bash: Latterday Plays (2002 Rabin Award Nomination - Actor in a Play) and at PRT in The Only Thing Worse You Could Have Told Me… (1998 Rabin Award – Actor in a Play, 1998 Dallas Theater Critics Forum Award), The Woman in Black (2000 Rabin Award Nomination – Actor in a Play), and Lonely Planet.
After growing up in south Alabama, Terry spent 12 years in New York City working in theatre, television and film. While there, he directed and acted at The Village Theatre Company, Carnegie Hall Studios and Theatre at St. Marks as well as television appearances on ABC’s One Life to Live and NBC’s To Serve and Protect. He holds a BFA from the University of Alabama and has trained professionally with Sanford Meisner, Fred Kareman, Wynn Handman, Sally Johnson and Lehmann Byck. Terry presently teaches on-going acting classes in the Sanford Meisner Technique at WTT, as well as having served as Adjunct Professor of Acting at the University of Texas at Dallas.
About WaterTower Theatre WaterTower Theatre has become a theatrical force of nature through its consistent excellence and sharp programming. Combining Broadway-quality productions with the beauty of an intimate playing space, WaterTower Theatre provides experiences that are powerful and insightful, intense and uplifting. WaterTower Theatre provides the community with an opportunity to examine man’s conditions from all perspective’s and promotes growth through humor and drama.
Now in its 12th season, WaterTower Theatre began life in 1996 with 136 brave subscribers. Today, with over 2000 subscribers and a budget of $1.1 million, it consistently earns rave reviews in The Dallas Morning News, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, Dallas Observer, and other local publications. With 104 Dallas Theatre League Leon Rabin Nominations and 28 wins to its credit, as well as 16 Dallas Fort Worth Theatre Critics Forum Awards, WaterTower Theatre is home to the finest local talent.
6/05/08 - WTT Welcomes Greg Patterson as Director of Development
WaterTower Theatre (WTT) is proud to announce that Greg Patterson will join the WTT staff as Director of Development.
Patterson, who has been the Director of Marketing and Communications at the Dallas Theater Center for the past year, succeeds Judy Schecter, who left in February to pursue personal interests.
“We are thrilled to have Greg join the WaterTower Theatre family," stated Producing Artistic Director Terry Martin. “His passion for the theatre and diversity of experience will make him an exceptional Director of Development as we move forward into an exciting period of growth."
Patterson is currently the Director of Marketing and Communications for the Dallas Theater Center, where he has led several successful audience initiatives and led to a 25% increase in subscription sales over the past 10 months.
Prior to the Dallas Theater Center, Patterson worked as Senior Director of Marketing, Communications and Development at the Laguna Playhouse where he launched a successful $5 million capital campaign and increased earned revenue by 33%. He’s held other senior marketing and development positions at American Ballet Theater, English National Ballet, Orange County Performing Arts Center and National Ballet of Canada.
“I am tremendously excited and honored to be joining Terry, James, and the entire team at WaterTower," said Patterson. “Since coming to Texas over a year ago, I was immediately impressed by Terry’s strong artistic leadership. I am excited by the opportunity to work with the staff, the board and volunteers to identify and explore new funding sources while continuing to cultivate the theatre’s many existing donors. As the theatre-going community in the cities of Addison and Dallas continue to flourish, I am looking forward to playing a role in developing new and diverse audiences to support our long-term growth."
5/23/08 - WTT Producing Artistic Director on WFAA's Good Morning Texas
On Friday, May 23, WTT Producing Artistic Director Terry Martin sat for an interview with Good Morning Texas anchor Brenda Teel to discuss the important work that WTT continues to do. He also gives a short preview of WTT's current production, Intimate Apparel. Be sure to watch the video and forward it to your friends. Help get the secret out about the work WaterTower continues to do.
5/22/08 - WTT Announces Acting Class for Fall 2008
WaterTower Theatre is proud to offer Acting: The Meisner Technique. The class will be taught by WTT Producing Artistic Director Terry Martin and is open to actors age 18 and over.
This 12 week program will meet from September 30 to December 16, 2008. Classes will be held each Tuesday from 10 AM until 1 PM in the Studio Theatre of the Addison Theatre Centre - 15650 Addison Road. The Fee for the class is $500 due on the first day of class. Class size is limited. An interview is required before admission to class. (Applying to be in the class does not guarantee enrollment.)
Terry Martin trained under both Sanford Meisner and Meisner protégé Fred Kareman before relocating to Dallas in 1992. Previously, Martin worked extensively in New York and landed a recurring role on ABC's One Life to Live. Since moving to Dallas, Martin has become an award-winning actor and director. Martin received honors from the Dallas Theatre League (three time Leon Rabin award winner including Best Actor for The Only Thing Worse You Could Have Told Me and Best Director of a Play for Journey's End and Cat on a Hot Tin Roof), Dallas Observer (Best Theater Director - 2002), and the Dallas/Ft. Worth Theatre Critic's Forum.
WaterTower Theatre (WTT) and Producing Artistic Director Terry Martin are proud to announce the 2008-2009 season for WTT’s Main Stage and Discover Series as well as the headliner for the 2009 Out of the Loop Fringe Festival. WTT’s thirteenth season promises to entertain and engage audiences with rousing musicals, classic dramas, side-splitting comedies and highly anticipated regional premieres. The season will consist of twelve fully-staged productions as well as the highly successful Out of the Loop Fringe Festival.
“I think our patrons will find this to be a year of theatrical events that will delight all audiences," states Martin. “The Main Stage productions are grounded in a unique blend of significant (but familiar) classics both dramatic and musical, as well as remarkable new plays that will enthrall and inspire. This season truly speaks to the distinctiveness we have built and lived for the last 10 years."
WTT’s 2008-2009 Main Stage season consists of:
AREA PREMIERE Doubt, a Parable by John Patrick Shanley October 2 – 26, 2008
Father Flynn, a charismatic young priest, is adored by his students; Sister Aloysius, an unbending principal, is pleased by the fear she invokes in them. When Father Flynn begins to take special interest in a new student, Sister Aloysius begins to think the unthinkable. But when a nun’s suspicion is weighed against the word of a priest, how does one determine the truth? The winner of 24 major awards, including the 2005 Pulitzer Prize, Doubt, a Parable is a gripping exploration of the question, “What do you do when you’re not sure?"
Violet Book & Lyrics by Brian Crawley; Music by Jeanine Tesori January 15 – February 8, 2009
When Violet was 13 years old, a tragic accident left her scarred for life. Now an adult, she must embark on a cross-country pilgrimage to find a cure for her ailment - a journey that will reconcile the tragic events of her past with the harsh realities of her present. Boasting a score that mixes country, bluegrass and R&B, Violet is the story of one woman's healing journey to discover love, courage, and the meaning of acceptance.
Our Town by Thornton Wilder April 2 – 26, 2009
WaterTower Theatre continues to explore the canon of American classics with the Pulitzer Prize-winning Our Town. Set at the turn of the 20th century, the play examines the ordinary lives of the people of Grover's Corners, New Hampshire. A boy and girl meet as teenagers and succumb to adolescent affections before maturing, marrying, and having a child of their own. Unassuming in its simplicity and universality, Our Town is one of the most beloved masterpieces of the American Theatre.
REGIONAL PREMIERE Indoor/Outdoor By Kenny Finkle May 21 – June 14, 2009
Samantha is having some serious problems. Her friend Shuman doesn’t always understand her. Her therapist treats her like a stray. And she’s kept from being with her true love by a sliding glass door. It’s definitely not easy being a housecat. Quirky and warm-hearted, Indoor/Outdoor examines the world though the eyes of a frisky housecat to see if the grass is greener on the other side of the pet door.
How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying Music & Lyrics by Frank Loesser; Book by Abe Burrows, Jack Weinstock, & Willie Gilbert July 16 – August 9, 2009
From the authors of Guys and Dolls comes one of the most delightfully irreverent musicals of all time. Follow the rise of J. Pierpont Finch as he climbs the corporate ladder from lowly window washer to high-powered executive. As Finch climbs to the top, he must tackle the formidable dangers of the office party, backstabbing co-workers, caffeine addiction, and true love. Winner of the Pulitzer Prize for Drama, How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying is a ground-breaking satire of American big business.
In addition to the Main Stage season, WaterTower Theatre will also produce the following season extras:
HOLIDAY EXTRA - REGIONAL PREMIERE Beautiful Star: An Appalachian Nativity by Preston Lane, with original music by Laurelyn Dossett November 28 – December 21, 2008
Reverend Roy Ledbetter and the congregation of the Open Heart Community Fellowship Church bring the Christmas story to life in an Appalachian setting with down-home laughter, toe-tapping music and a tug at the heart. In the tradition of the medieval mystery plays of Old England, Beautiful Star weaves music, humor and wonder together, re-telling great stories from the Bible in a festive gathering of family, friends and faith.
HOLIDAY EXTRA - REGIONAL PREMIERE This Wonderful Life by Steve Murray December 3 – 21, 2008
Share the hope and humor of Frank Capra’s adored classic Christmas film It’s a Wonderful Life re-imagined as a one-man tour de force. There’s the family man George Bailey; evil and miserly Mr. Potter; Clarence, the dotty angel-in-waiting; devoted Mary; and Zuzu with her petals. But we can’t forget the image of a man standing alone on a bridge on Christmas Eve...the story of how he got there, and how he found his way back home. Brimming with hope and humor, This Wonderful Life is a must-see event that will provide the perfect start to your family's holiday festivities.
SEASON EXTRA Out of the Loop Fringe Festival March 5 – 15, 2009
For the past seven years, WaterTower Theatre’s Out of the Loop Fringe Festival has wowed audiences with an exciting and unmatched artistic lineup. Featuring some of the best acts in theatre, music, dance and art from around the region, OOTL continues to bring all three spaces of the Addison Theatre Centre alive with exciting, contemporary work. WaterTower Theatre is proud to announce the 2009 OOTL Fringe Festival headliner! Charlie Ross will bring his internationally acclaimed One Man Star Wars Trilogy to the Addison Theatre Centre for five electrifying performances.
Expanding upon the success of its inaugural year, WTT will present an expanded Discover Series in the Addison Theatre Centre’s Studio Theatre. The 2008-2009 Discover Series will consist of:
REGIONAL PREMIERE Make Me a Song: The Music of William Finn Music & Lyrics by William Finn; Conceived by Rob Ruggio October 30 – November 23, 2008
The composer and lyricist of the musicals Falsettos, A New Brain and The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, William Finn has been a staple of the American theatre for 30 years. At once witty, wistful, neurotic and brave, Finn’s music has been revered by audiences and critics alike. Using a quartet of singers and a single piano, Make Me a Song is a musical celebration of one of our musical theatre greats.
REGIONAL PREMIERE A Feminine Ending by Sarah Treem January 29 – February 22, 2009
Amanda Blue has put her music career on hold. It takes a long time to write a symphony; besides, there are other considerations. She has a full-time job. Her boyfriend is about to become famous. Her mother is planning to leave her father. And she’s re-connecting with the one that got away. A new romantic comedy, A Feminine Ending is about dreams deferred, loves lost and learning to trust a woman’s voice in a man’s world.
REGIONAL PREMIERE Based on a Totally True Story by Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa April 16 – May 3, 2009
Ethan Keene, playwright and comic book writer, is on the verge of having it all – success, money, and a Hollywood movie credit. But getting to that Hollywood Premiere may be more dramatic than the movie. His father is having a marital crisis, his boyfriend is begging for more attention, and his producer is demanding a re-write. Based on a Totally True Story is the story of one wanna-be screenwriter’s attempt to find his own happy ending before the final credits roll.
REGIONAL PREMIERE The Receptionist by Adam Bock June 4 – 28, 2009
At the start of a typical day in the Northeast Office, Beverly deals effortlessly with ringing phones and her colleague's romantic troubles. But the appearance of a charming rep from the Central Office disrupts the friendly routine. And as the true nature of the company's business becomes apparent, Beverly realizes that her life as The Receptionist will never be the same.
Season tickets for WTT’s 2008-2009 Main Stage season can be purchased by calling the box office at 972.450.6232. Season ticket prices range from $75 to $150. Individual ticket prices range from $22 to $40 per show. Performance times are Wednesdays and Thursdays at 7:30 PM, Fridays at 8 PM, Saturdays at 2 PM and 8 PM, and Sundays at 2 PM. For further information regarding WTT season tickets, visit their website at www.watertowertheatre.org. Season extras are currently available only to season subscribers. Prices and show times for season extras vary. For specific information on season extras, call the WTT box office at 972.450.6232.
Season tickets for WTT’s 2008-2009 Discover Series are $65 each for Regular Performances and $80 each for Opening Nights and can be purchased by calling the box office at 972.450.6232. Individual tickets range from $20 - $25. Performance times are Thursdays at 7:30 PM, Fridays and Saturdays at 8 PM, and Sundays at 2 PM.
For the past eleven years, WaterTower Theatre has proven itself to be on the forefront of both the regional and Dallas theatre communities. WTT has been recognized for artistic excellence by the Dallas Theatre League, Dallas/Fort Worth Theater Critics Forum, The Dallas Morning News, The Dallas Observer, D Magazine and Star-Telegram, among others. WaterTower Theatre has a subscription base in excess of 2,400 subscribers and serves an audience base of over 30,000 patrons annually. WaterTower Theatre is supported in part by the Town of Addison, TACA, The Texas Commission on the Arts, and Rainmaker Advertising.
4/24/08 - WTT Accepting Enrollment for Summer Performing Arts Conservatory
WaterTower Theatre's two week, fun-filled Summer Conservatory will introduce you to kids who share your love of acting, singing and dancing!
At the Summer Performing Arts Conservatory, go beyond the traditional idea of a summer camp with a unique, non-competitive, nurturing program that caters to students who want to immerse themselves in all aspects of theatre arts.
Our classes, taught by highly skilled professionals, offer a small class size - guaranteeing that each student receives the individual attention necessary to learn theatre skills as well as life skills - confidence, self-esteem and a love of creativity.
Classes for younger participants include acting, audition technique, dance, voice, and art.
Older children will explore techniques in scene study, playwriting, Shakespeare, improvisation, stage make-up, musical theatre, dance, costume design, voice, audition technique, and film.
Each session culminates in a Showcase Presentation for family and friends highlighting skills and techniques acquired during classes.
4/03/08 - WTT Concludes "Discover Series" with Tuesdays with Morrie
WaterTower Theatre (WTT) concludes its inaugural “Discover Series" with Jeffrey Hatcher’s adaptation of Mitch Albom’s bestseller Tuesdays with Morrie.
When his former Brandeis sociology professor and mentor is diagnosed with Lou Gehrig’s Disease, a career-obsessed sportswriter plans a brief visit to re-connect and say goodbye. As their friendship rekindles and the visits become a weekly ritual, both teacher and student discover a tender and touching connection to each other. A powerful, deeply emotional story, Tuesdays with MorrieM examines the true meaning of life and love.
Tuesdays with Morrie is a memoir chronicling Albom’s relationship with his favorite sociology professor, Morrie Schwartz, compiled from meetings with Morrie on Tuesday's during his fight with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (or ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig's disease). After being featured prominently on Oprah Winfrey's show, the book became a New York Times best-seller. Albom's next foray was in fiction. His next book was The Five People You Meet in Heaven published in September of 2003. This book was a success and again launched Albom onto the New York Times best-seller list.
Directed by Jonathan Taylor, Tuesdays with Morrie stars Joe Nemmers and Gary Taggart.
Tuesdays with Morrie runs April 24 – May 17 (no performances on May 9 – 11) in the Addison Theatre Centre’s Studio Theatre, which is located at 15650 Addison Road in Addison, Texas. Performance times are Wednesdays and Thursdays at 7:30 PM, Fridays and Saturdays at 8:00 PM, and Sundays at 2:00 PM. Tickets are $20 and can be purchased by calling the WTT Box Office at 972.450.6232. Group rates are also available.
Now in its twelfth season, WaterTower Theatre has proven itself to be on the forefront of both the regional and Dallas theatre communities. WTT has been recognized for artistic excellence by the Dallas Theatre League, Dallas/Fort Worth Theater Critics Forum, The Dallas Morning News, The Dallas Observer, D Magazine and Star-Telegram, among others. WaterTower Theatre has a subscription base in excess of 2,400 subscribers and serves an audience base of over 30,000 patrons annually. WaterTower Theatre is supported in part by the Town of Addison, TACA, and The Texas Commission on the Arts.
Coming off the record setting 2007 Out of the Loop Festival, this year's festival continued to set records of its own. Nearly 4,200 patrons took in the 10 day stretch of music, theatre, dance and art. Twenty three companies throughout the region and country participated in this year's festival with over 60 individual performances.
WaterTower Theatre would like to thank Jimmy John's in Addison and Chef Pete with Chef Pete Catering and Ice for their generous donations during the festival!
Thank you to all those who came out to this year's Out of the Loop Festival and for making it one of WTT's most exciting and successful festivals to date!
2/18/08 - WTT's 2008 Spotlight Gala A Huge Success!
WaterTower Theatre’s annual gala has become one of the area's major social events of the year and Spotlight 2008 proved to be no exception with over 220 people in attendance. The evening was an amazing success, raising more money for the theatre’s productions and education programs than ever before!
2/05/08 - Dixie’s Tupperware Party & Blackbird Headline
WaterTower’s 7th Annual Out of the Loop Festival
Expanding upon the success of the past six years, WaterTower Theatre is pleased to announce plans for its seventh annual Out of the Loop Festival.
A 10-day celebration of theatre, dance, music and art, the Out of the Loop Festival features performances by WaterTower Theatre as well as other arts organizations from the local area and region. The Festival will run March 6 – 16, 2008. Performances will be held at the Addison Theatre Centre, which contains three performance venues: the Festival Main Stage (seating approximately 180), the Studio Theatre (seating approximately 70), and the Stone Cottage (seating approximately 50).
The 2004 Dallas/Fort Worth Theatre Critics Forum awarded the Out of the Loop Festival with a special citation for providing performance opportunities to new works and new production companies. Attendance for the 2007 Festival reached an all-time high of 4,500 patrons over 10 days.
Headlining the 2008 festival will be New York based artist Dixie Longate in Dixie’s Tupperware Party and WaterTower Theatre’s Regional Premiere of David Harrower’s Blackbird.
Dixie Longate, the fast-talking Tupperware Lady, has packed up her catalogues and left her children in an Alabama trailer park to journey to Big D for Dixie’s Tupperware Party. Join Dixie as she throws a good ol’ fashioned Tupperware Party filled with outrageous tales, free giveaways, and the most fabulous assortment of Tupperware ever sold in Texas. See for yourself how Ms. Longate became the number one Tupperware seller in the world as she educates her guests on the many alternative uses she has discovered for her plastic products! One of the most talked-about plays in recent years,
David Harrower’s Blackbird comes to life in WaterTower’s thrilling production. Fifteen years ago, Una and Ray had an affair. Now she arrives unexpectedly at Ray’s workplace, forcing Ray to come to grips with their relationship in a powerful and volatile exchange that will change both their lives forever. Blackbird will be directed by former Plano Repertory Theatre Artistic Director Mark Fleischer.
Additionally, WaterTower will host a Playwriting Workshop with acclaimed playwright and television writer Debra Fordham, who is currently a writer for NBC Television’s Scrubs. While at Scrubs, Debra collaborated with the Tony-Award winning composers of Avenue Q to write the Scrubs musical episode. For her work on the hit NBC show, Debra has earned three Emmy nominations and a Peabody Award. Debra is also the playwright of Valdosta State University’s 2008 Out of the Loop Presentation, Holler Me Home. Her Playwriting Workshop is intended for anyone who has ever dreamed of writing for either the stage or television and will examine the differences in writing for the two very different mediums. The workshop will take place on Saturday, March 15, from 10 AM to 4 PM and costs $50.
The 2008 Out of the Loop Festival will take place March 6 – 16. Tickets to all events go on sale February 19. Festival Passes, which include one admission to each festival event (excluding the Playwriting Workshop) and an advance reservation option, are currently available for $50 by calling the WaterTower Theatre Box Office at 972.450.6232. Admission to the Playwriting Workshop is $50.
Bidding Begins Today for WTT's First Ever Online Auction!
Help kick off WTT's first ever online auction with a bang! Check out the following list of fabulous items that are up for auction exclusively online:
Trip for Two to the Tony Awards, 7 Day / 6 Night Vacation Package to Acapulco, White Water Rafting Trip for Four in Maine, Nascar Racing Package and more!
Proceeds from this event benefit WaterTower Theatre's Artistic and Education Programs.
12/01/07 - iBakeSale: A Unique Shopping Experience Just In Time For The Holidays
WaterTower Theatre is excited to introduce iBakeSale, a new program that helps WaterTower Theatre raise money every time you shop at your favorite stores.
iBakeSale has partnered with hundreds of merchants like Nordstrom's, Dick's Sporting Goods, Linens & Things, The Gap, PetSmart and many others to offer you up to 20% cash-back rewards on every online purchase you make through iBake Sale.
When you sign up, please choose to donate your savings to WaterTower Theatre. Your donation will be sent directly to WTT. Giving while you shop - there's nothing better!
11/13/07 - WaterTower Theatre Receives 5 Leon Rabin Awards
On November 12, the Dallas Theatre League honored WaterTower Theatre with 5 Leon Rabin Awards. Congratulations to all the winners and nominees for an outstanding theatre season!
• Outstanding Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role, Play - James Crawford for Edward Albee's Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf?
• Outstanding Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role, Play - Kristina Baker for Edward Albee's Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf?
• Outstanding Set Design, Play - Clare Floyd DeVries for The Sugar Bean Sisters
• Outstanding Lighting Design, Musical - Jason S. Foster for Man of La Mancha
• Outstanding Lighting Design, Play - Jason S. Foster for The Sugar Bean Sisters
10/31/07 - WaterTower Theatre Brings Back Rockin’ Christmas Party and The Santaland Diaries
WaterTower Theatre (WTT) brings back two hit shows this holiday season, Rockin’ Christmas Party and The Santaland Diaries.
After a three year hiatus, Rockin’ Christmas Party returns to the WaterTower stage. Six of the hippest performers in town and a swingin’ live band “rock around the Christmas tree" as they groove to the Top 40 hits of the ‘60s, ‘70s, and ‘80s. Grab your hairspray, platform shoes, and Santa hat – and let the cast of Rockin’ Christmas Party “sock it to ya!"
Directed by James Paul Lemons, Rockin’ Christmas Party features Chimberly Carter, Megan Kelly, Markus Lloyd, Cedric Neal, Sara Shelby-Martin, and Cara Statham Serber.
Also returning this holiday season will be The Santaland Diaries, a wickedly funny antidote to all of that holiday cheer from the comic mind of National Public Radio’s David Sedaris. Follow the adventures of an out-of-work, thirty-something actor who decides to become a Macy’s elf during the holiday crunch. The Santaland Diaries brings to life the bizarre and utterly surreal world of the modern commercial Christmas experience. The Santaland Diaries will once again feature Nye Cooper.
Rockin’ Christmas Party will run November 29 through December 23 on the Main Stage of the Addison Theatre Centre, which is located at 15650 Addison Road in Addison, Texas. Performance times are Wednesdays and Thursdays at 7:30 pm, Fridays and Saturdays at 8:00 pm, and Sundays at 2:00 pm. Ticket prices range from $20 - $30.
The Santaland Diaries will run for 15 performances only from December 6 through December 23 in the Addison Theatre Centre’s Studio Theatre. Performances are Wednesdays through Sundays with various start times. For a complete schedule, visit the website at www.watertowertheatre.org. Ticket price is $25. The Santaland Diaries contains adult language and content and is intended for adult audiences.
Tickets for both shows are available by calling the WaterTower Theatre box office at 972.450.6232 or online at www.watertowertheatre.org. Group rates are also available.
7/23/07 - WaterTower Theatre Announces the Addition of a "Discover Series" During the 2007-2008 Season
WaterTower Theatre (WTT) is proud to announce it will produce an inaugural second season titled the “Discover Series" in the Addison Theatre Centre’s Studio Theatre during the 2007-2008 Season. The new season will consist of the Regional Premiere of Douglas Carter Beane’s comedy The Little Dog Laughed, the Regional Premiere of Almost, Maine by John Cariani, and the Dallas Premiere of Mitch Albom and Jeffrey Hatcher’s Tuesdays with Morrie.
Artistic Associate James Paul Lemons states, “The addition of a second series in the Studio Theatre has been an internal goal of ours for a few years now, but the availability of performance rights and the Studio have never been quite right. This season, both the space and the shows we feel are right for the series became available – we felt it was now or never."
WTT’s 2007-2008 Discover Series consists of:
The Little Dog Laughed By Douglas Carter Beane October 25 – November 18, 2007
Mitchell Green is on the verge of living every Hollywood actor’s fairy-tale dream. Always photographed on the arms of beautiful women, he nevertheless has a little secret that could end his career once and for all – his recurring bouts of homosexuality. When Mitchell falls in love with his latest rent-boy, he wants to shout it from the rooftop and only his devilish agent Diane can ensure a happy ending as the final credits roll. The play contains nudity and sexual content.
Almost, Maine By John Cariani February 14 – March 2, 2008
On a Friday night in the middle of winter, residents of the small northern town of Almost, Maine are falling in and out of love at an alarming rate. With its hilarious and heartbreaking stories of love in the time of frostbite, Almost, Maine aims for the heart by way of the funnybone - a perfect romantic comedy for young and old alike.
Tuesdays with Morrie By Mitch Albom & Jeffrey Hatcher April 24 – May 11, 2008
When his former Brandeis sociology professor and mentor is diagnosed with Lou Gehrig’s Disease, a career-obsessed sportswriter plans a brief visit to re-connect and say goodbye. As their friendship rekindles and the visits become a weekly ritual, both teacher and student discover a tender and touching connection to each other. A powerful, deeply emotional story, Tuesdays with Morrie examines the true meaning of life and love.
Season tickets for WTT’s 2007-2008 Discover Series are $50 each and can be purchased by calling the box office at 972.450.6232. Individual tickets are $20 and go on sale September 4, 2007 for Little Dog Laughed and January 2, 2008 for Almost, Maine and Tuesdays with Morrie. Performance times are Thursdays at 7:30 PM, Fridays and Saturdays at 8 PM, and Sundays at 2 PM.
7/02/07 - The Dream Café in Addison Hosts Special Event in July
The Dream Café in Addison is proud to support WaterTower Theatre (WTT) by hosting a Subscriber Appreciation Event on Wednesday, July 11 from 5:30PM - 7:00PM. Listed as one of WTT's "Restaurants of Choice," The Dream Café plans to premiere its very own Sugar Bean Sandwich at the event in honor of the upcoming production of The Sugar Bean Sisters. The evening will include wine and appetizers along with a meet 'n' greet with the cast and director of The Sugar Bean Sisters.
The Dream Café is located in the Village on the Parkway at 5100 Belt Line Road Suite #208. Seating is limited. Please RSVP to Judy Schecter at 972.450.6227 or email jschecter@watertowertheatre.org.
WaterTower Theatre offers a new podcast page that features conversations with the artistic staff of its productions. "As we venture into this new technology, it is our hope that podcasts open up a distinct dialogue between the artist and the patron," explains WTT Artistic Associate James Lemons. To suggest future topics, offer suggestions, or just to let WTT know that you are listening, drop an email to jlemons@watertowertheatre.org.
5/29/07 - D Magazine Names WaterTower Theatre "The Best Theater in Dallas"
Dallas theater critic Glen Arbery sits down with WaterTower's Producing Artistic Director Terry Martin and Artistic Associate James Lemons for an in depth interview.
5/01/07 - WaterTower Theatre Announces 2007-2008 Season
WaterTower Theatre (WTT) is pleased to announce its 2007-2008 season. Highlighting the new season will be a return visit to Armadillo Acres as WTT’s hit 2007 Out of the Loop show The Great American Trailer Park Musical sets up residence on the Main Stage, WTT’s first Shakespearean production with the romantic adventure As You Like It, and the regional premiere of noted playwright Lynn Nottage’s Intimate Apparel.
Producing Artistic Director Terry Martin states, “Our upcoming season is full of what we have become known for – great plays. From the new and outrageous like Trailer Park to classics like As You Like It, our commitment to telling great stories by great storytellers has never been stronger."
WTT’s 2007-2008 regular season lineup consists of:
The Great American Trailer Park Musical Book by Betsy Kelso; Music & Lyrics by David Nehls September 27 – October 21, 2007 There's a new tenant in Armadillo Acres, and she's wreaking havoc all over Florida's most exclusive trailer park! The double-wide divas of this fine housing establishment have survived everything from kidnapping to no-good men to bad perms. But when Pippi, a “stripper on the run," comes between agoraphobic housewife Jeannie and her tollbooth collector husband, a storm begins to brew that will shake these manufactured homes right down to their mobile foundations. Warning: This musical contains tacky outfits, bad wigs, crude language, adultery, road kill, electrocution and spray cheese. So leave the little ones at home.
William Shakespeare’s As You Like It January 17 – February 10, 2008 Driven from her home by her usurping uncle, Rosalind seeks protection in the Forest of Arden. There she must use her wit and wisdom to mend wicked hearts, redeem the wrongfully slandered and explore the uncharted landscape of the heart. One of Shakespeare’s most magical and romantic adventures, As You Like It celebrates the enduring power of love in all its many disguises.
The Foreigner By Larry Shue April 3 – 27, 2008 Charlie Baker is pathologically shy. To distance himself from human contact, he travels to a remote fishing lodge in rural Georgia and poses as a foreigner who can neither speak nor understand a word of English. But the plan hilariously backfires when he becomes the perfect person with whom the locals share their deepest secrets and schemes. The Foreigner is a modern comic farce complete with mistaken identities, surprising plot twists, evil villains, and innocent damsels that will have you rolling in the aisles!
REGIONAL PREMIERE Intimate Apparel By Lynn Nottage May 22 – June15, 2008 Plain and unsophisticated, Esther sews exquisite lingerie for women of the boudoir and the brothel alike. When she begins a correspondence with a man from across the world, her hopes for finding companionship and love take an unexpected turn. The winner of five national awards for best play, Intimate Apparel weaves together a moving and evocative portrait of one African-American woman’s search for love at the beginning of the 20th Century.
A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum Music and Lyrics by Stephen Sondheim; Book by Burt Shevelove & Larry Gelbart July 17 – August 10, 2008 “Tragedy tomorrow, comedy tonight!" A wily slave schemes, cajoles and manipulates all of ancient Rome to win his freedom in this uproarious musical farce by Stephen Sondheim. Hailed as one of the American musical theatre’s comedic masterpieces, A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum combines a swaggering general, a dippy maiden, a doddering old man and a stable of sexy courtesans in a high-energy, high-jinx combination of vaudeville and burlesque.
In addition to the regular mainstage season, WaterTower Theatre will also produce:
HOLIDAY EXTRA Rockin’ Christmas Party By Dave Steakley November 29 – December 23, 2007 You asked for it. You begged for it. And now it’s back! After a three year hiatus, Rockin’ Christmas Party returns to the WaterTower stage. Six of the hippest performers in town and a swingin’ live band “rock around the Christmas tree" as they groove to Top 40 hits of the ‘60s, ‘70s, and ‘80s. Grab your hairspray, platform shoes, and Santa hat – and let the cast of Rockin’ Christmas Party “sock it to ya!"
SEASON EXTRA OUT OF THE LOOP FESTIVAL A 10-day celebration of theatre, dance, music and art March 1 – 11, 2007 WaterTower Theatre’s highly acclaimed Out of the Loop Festival returns for its seventh year. WTT teams with performing arts organizations from around the region to bring all three spaces at the Addison Theatre Centre to life with exciting, contemporary works. “Go Loopy" at the fastest growing arts festival in the region.
Season tickets for WTT’s 2006-2007 season can be purchased by calling the box office at 972.450.6232. Season ticket prices range from $65 to $125. Individual ticket prices range from $20 to $30 per show. Performance times are Wednesdays and Thursdays at 7:30 PM, Fridays and Saturdays at 8 PM, and Sundays at 2 PM. For further information regarding WTT season tickets, visit their website at www.watertowertheatre.org. Season extras are currently available only to season subscribers. Prices and show times for season extras vary. For specific information on season extras, call the WTT box office at 972.450.6232.
11/14/06 - WTT Wins 7 Leon Rabin Awards!
On Monday, November 13, WaterTower Theatre was thrilled to receive 7 Leon Rabin Awards from the Dallas Theatre League. The Leon Rabin Awards are named on behalf of the late arts patron Leon Rabin, who devoted his business and private life to the development of both art and artists in Dallas.
Nominations are made by two five-member committees (one for plays and one for musicals). The committees are comprised of local playwrights, actors, directors, designers and dramaturges. The winner is then selected by a committee made up of these nominators plus a five additional voters who saw every eligable production.
WaterTower Theatre's awards include:
Outstanding Musical - Urinetown
Outstanding Director of a Musical - James Paul Lemons, Urinetown
Outstanding Musical Director - Sheilah V. Walker, Urinetown
Outstanding Actor in a Leading Role, Musical - Joshua Doss, Urinetown
Outstanding Actor in a Supporting Role, Musical - Paul Taylor, Urinetown
Outstanding Actor in a Supporting Role, Play - Ted Wold, Take Me Out
Outstanding Set Design, Musical - Clare Floyd DeVries, Urinetown
10/01/06 - WaterTower Theatre Receives 6 Theatre Critics Forum Awards
WTT was honored to recently receive six citations from the Dallas Ft. Worth Theatre Critics Forum Awards. The awards are determined by Glenn Arbery of D Magazine, Nancy Churnin, Manuel Mendoza, & Lawson Taitte from The Dallas Morning News, Elaine Liner from the Dallas Observer, Mary Lowry & Perry Stewart from Fort Worth Star-Telegram, Martha Heimberg of Turtle Creek News and Arnold Wayne Jones of the Dallas Voice.
This year, awards were give to:
James Paul Lemons - Outstanding Direction for Urinetown the Musical and The Woman in Black
Joe Nemmers - Outstanding Performance by an Actor for performances including WTT's The Crucible
Paul Taylor - Outstanding Performance by an Actor for performances including WTT's Urinetown the Musical
Clay Yocum - Outstanding Performance by an Actor for performances including WTT's Take Me Out
Arianna Movassagh - Outstanding Performance by an Actress for performances including WTT's Urinetown the Musical
Clare Floyd DeVries - Outstanding Creative Contribution for scenic design of Urinetown the Musical
Congratulations to all WTT artists for their great accomplishments this season!
Last Chance to Buy Young Benefactors for WaterTower Theatre Raffle Tickets