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The Blind Side

by Sean Kurtis
Sports Movies. I know what you’re probably thinking, Oh great another “inspirational” sports flick where the coach singles out a special player and helps them realize their potential. Or maybe the coach takes that team and makes them an unstoppable winning machine. Well get that out of your head. This is a story of a different kind. Although it does have the flair of football as well. The Blind Side movie is inspired by the life of Michael Oher (like the paddle of a boat) and his unbelievable story.

As a homeless teenager from a broken home and rough childhood Michael floats around and ends up in a private school where the faculty are not sure what to do with him because of a lack of educational records. Quickly labeled quiet and slow he starts going through the motions and is soon singled out by the Touhy family, a very well-to-do family. After years of nobody listening to him and now with people in his corner to help him see what he has to offer Michael soon comes out of his shell. Micheal Oher played by Quinton Aaron is a Larger than life character that is sure to win your heart over. Leigh Anne and Sean Touhy played by Sandra Bullock and Tim McGraw decide to adopt Michael and help him through school.

Michael is now faced with a completely different set of challenges. Succeeding in school against people who don’t believe in him. Learning how to play together on a team, and adjusting to dynamics in a family are just a few of these. With “ghosts’ from his past trying to show him that he’s no better than anyone else and people in the present challenging his beliefs in his new family Michael must search with in himself to figure out what he believes. Kathy Bates also shares the screen at times as Micheal’s tutor, Kathy brings her wit and charm that we all know with her to the story as well.

This film WILL touch your heart, Believe me. As this film is rated pg-13 for brief violence, drug and sexual references I do believe it is a film the family can enjoy. Michael Oher is now an offensive tackle for the Baltimore Ravens, Micheal’s story shows you the dreams are possible... For more great movie reviews and fun movie stuff check out my website www.CoolestMovieReviews.com

Evil Dead the Musical Resurrected at Second Street

After a wildly successful run last year, Evil Dead the Musical returns to the 2nd Street Theater stage in October. The show made its Oregon premier at 2nd Street last October and captured the hearts and swallowed the souls of Evil Dead and Army of Darkness fans and non fans alike. Evil Dead the Musical also introduced musical theatre to an audience that consisted of many people who had never experienced live theater before.

The highlight of last year’s run was a surprise visit from the star of the original Evil Dead movies and Burn Notice, Bruce Campbell, who stuck around after the show for a question and answer session with the cast and audience. There is indication that Campbell may pay the show another visit this year. With the exception of one cast member, the original cast is returning for the run. The cast is raising its own funding to produce the show, with the backing of 2nd Street Theater’s owner, Maralyn Thoma.

Since the decision was made in January not to produce any more shows, 2nd Street has been the home for several BEAT productions, a successful run of The Laramie Project by Rever Theatre Co. and an independent play by Cricket Daniel. Evil Dead the Musical is seeking sponsors for its October run. Plans are underway for special events, from zombie walks to a zombie carwash to help offset the costs of producing this bloody fun musical, but the rights alone are over $5,000. Sandy Klein at 541-312-9626 or 2ndsttheater@bendcable.com.

Little Shop of Horrors Comes to Life at the Tower

Alan Menken’s off-Broadway sensation about a man-eating plant comes to life at the Tower Theatre September 17-25 for only seven performances.  Little Shop of Horrors stars Rick Johnson as Seymour, a well meaning flower shop assistant who has found both fame and fortune in a strange and interesting new plant he calls Audrey 2.  The apple of Seymour’s eye is Audrey, his coworker and friend played by Rebekah Sharpe.  All that stands between Seymour and his love is Audrey’s boyfriend, a sadistic dentist with an addiction to Nitrous Oxide played by Micheal Stumpfig.  

Mr. Mushnik (Blaine Cameron) is the owner of  Skid Row Florist, a down and out florist shop in the worst part of town that finds sudden success in Seymour’s new plant.  Audrey 2 is a foul mouthed plant with an insatiable appetite for human blood.  Audrey 2 is brought to life by the voice of local actor Jermaine Golden and puppeteer Evan Smith.  But no great musical is complete without a chorus!  Jolie Miller, Tara Johnson, and Kahlia Aposhian star as the Ronnettes, a Greek chorus of fast talking street urchins that narrate a tale about unforeseen fame, fortune, greed, love, lust and murder.    This incredible ensemble cast is accompanied by a live band of professional musicians.  Constance Gordy on piano, Ken Copsey on bass, Jared Forequean on drums and Cam Chambers on guitar.  

The production team, or the dream team as Producer Tifany LeGuyonne likes to call them, are working diligently to create the most memorable musical theatre experience of the year.  Directed by Deb DeGrosse, choreographed by Michelle Mejaski,  Musical Direction by Rick Plants, and Vocal Coaching by Eileen Heaton.  This amazing team of seasoned professionals leads a stellar local cast in this sensational musical that is sure to delight audiences.  Join us for the musical experience of the year at the most iconic venue in town.  Tickets are $25  and on sale now: anytime at www.towertheatre.org or at 835 NW Wall Street Monday-Friday 10:30am - 4:30pm.  To order by phone call 541-317-0700. 

Love Letters Starring Gregory Harrison & Linda Purl at the Tower

Acclaimed actors Gregory Harrison and Linda Purl will star in a benefit performance of A.R. Gurney’s classic play Love Letters at the Tower Theatre on Saturday, October 2 at 8pm. The play is a fund-raiser for the Sisters Schools Foundation and is produced by the team that created the Foundation’s signature event, the Sisters Starry Nights Benefit Concert Series.

“We are thrilled to be bringing this much-loved play and such renowned actors to Central Oregon for this production,” said co-producer Jeri Fouts. “Love Letters has been a success wherever it has been staged, and the opportunity to feature such fine actors as Gregory Harrison and Linda Purl in the lead roles will make it even more special. “We are especially thankful that Gregory and Linda have offered to donate their time on behalf of the Sisters Schools Foundation.” The play chronicles the relationship between Andrew Makepeace Ladd III and Melissa Gardner, who meet as second graders.

Love Letters is funny, sad, witty, poignant and provocative, taking the characters through their mid-fifites and their unique and often intertwined life journeys. It has been performed on Broadway and in many theater companies across the country and has been done as a fund-raiser for a variety of charities. The producers note that it does contain some adult language and situations, and is not recommended for children.

Harrison is a veteran of many stage and television roles, who is perhaps best known for his role as Dr. Gonzo Gates on the series Trapper John, MD and his lead role in the mini-series Centennial based on the book by James Michener. Purl is an actress, singer and dancer whose credits include lead roles in more than 40 television movies, including Born Free, The Manions of America with Pierce Brosnan, The Last Day of Pompeii opposite Sir Laurence Olivier and the award-winning docudrama Like Normal People. Proceeds from Love Letters will benefit the Sisters Schools Foundation, which provides funding support for Sisters Elementary, Middle and High Schools.

The evening will feature a silent auction with fine art pieces including a beautiful quilt donated by Jean Wells of The Stitchin’ Post in Sisters; a Plein Air painting by renowned pastel artist Norma Holmes; a golf foursome with Pro Football Hall of Famer Dan Fouts; and a guitar signed by legendary rockers Crosby, Stills and Nash. For information, contact co-producer Novella Swisher at swishern@bendbroadband.com or the Tower Theatre at 541-317-0700.

Zombies to invade downtown Bend!

2nd Street Theater and the cast of Evil Dead: the Musical are organizing the 1st Annual Zombie Pub Crawl on Thursday, August 19. People are encouraged to dress up as their favorite character, zombified, and head downtown for food and drink specials. Check-in will take place between 5:30 pm and 7 pm at Summit Saloon, 125 NW Oregon Ave.

People are encouraged to come pre-zombified, but there will be makeup artists on hand to help with attaining the full effect for a small donation. Between 6:30 and 9:30, zombies can wander in hordes to Bo Bistro, Seven and Velvet for more food and drink specials. At 9:30, everyone will gather at Astro Lounge for prize drawings and a showing of Army of Darkness.

Zombie Pub Crawls and Zombie Walks are becoming increasingly popular thoughout the United States with the largest ones held in Minneapolis & Seattle. Bend experienced its first Zombie Walk on July 4 during the Freedom Ride. 17 living dead marched through Drake Park and through downtown Bend, bringing laughter and smiles to the crowds.

There is a charge of $10 to register and get in on the specials at each establishment and the prize drawings. The money raised from the event will go towards the 2010 production of Evil Dead the Musical, running October 1 through October 31, with a portion of the proceeds going to benefit the NeighborImpact Food Bank. The organizers of the event have created a website with rules and registration information, along with makeup tips and a coupon from Halloween Headquarters. The website is http://bendzombies.webstarts.com and for more information, people can e mail bendzombies@yahoo.com 2nd Street Theater www.2ndstreettheater.com, 541-312-9626

Puppets, Motorcycles & Murder:
The Little Shop of Horrors

The Little Shop of Horrors cast, an ensemble of nine, has been busily rehearsing throughout July. Throngs of talented thespians turned out for the rigorous three day audition process in June, and those that made the cut are working hard to bring this quirky musical about a man-eating plant to life. Cat Call Productions, the company that brought you Cabaret at the Tower last year, has hired a team of theatre professionals to support stage director Deb DeGrosse for this year’s production: Rick Plants, Michelle Mejaski and Eileen Heaton, all with impressive resumes of their own, round out the production team. The artistic talent doesn’t stop with the cast and crew, though.

The protagonist of the show, the overgrown man-eating plant Audrey-2, is crafted by a team of puppet makers out of San Francisco who have worked with the late Jim Henson and the producers of the Little Shop of Horrors Broadway revival in 2003. Cat Call hired local artist Sean Meehan, who is also an accomplished ballroom dance instructor, to create custom comic-style images for the show’s marketing campaign. Cat Call’s set designer, Scott Wegner, has Hollywood credentials including the set of the 1988 film, Beetlejuice. Cat Call owner and producer Tifany LeGuyonne is proud of the Cat Call team; “We have brought together a team of theater-lovers who are very good at what they do. I can’t wait to see the show.” Cat Call’s 2009 production Cabaret played to sold out audiences at the Tower last year.

The Wait Dusts Central Oregon
with Hollywood Magic

by JEFF SPRY for Cascade AE

Hollywood magic has dusted the High Desert over the past weeks with the filming of an independent feature, The Wait, directed by Portland-based director, M. Blash, best known for his daring O Pioneers Levi’s commercial.   Shooting is set to wrap this week in various spots around Sisters and Bend. The quirky black comedy follows two sisters, played by Chloe Sevigny and Jena Malone, who return to a small mountain town when their mother dies.  After receiving a bizarre call that she will come back to life, the sisters decide to keep her body in the house with them. 

Luke Grimes of TV’s Brothers and Sisters portrays a philosophical and mysterious man who becomes smitten with Malone’s character.  Malone is a child star first seen in 1997’s Contact and more recently in The Messenger and The Ruins. Line producer, Brett Cranford, is pleased with his efficient cast and crew and how smoothly the shoot is progressing.  “These guys have all worked together before so they’re a tight group.  That makes a big difference.  We’re completely on schedule and the weather has been cooperating perfectly,” he said.   “We wanted to get the community involved and make it an interesting, easy experience for all.”

The director’s parents, Ron and Candy Blash, flew in to the Sisters Airport last week to visit their son on the set.  Not to be upstaged by their talented cinematic son, Michael, the Blash family glided in over the Cascades courtesy of their own private warbird, a lemon yellow, Beechcraft T-34 Mentor, fully restored to perfection. “What a day to go flying,” said Candy, gesturing to the blinding blue sky.  “It was so clear and spectacular over the mountains.  We’re very excited to go watch them film.   Our son is really devoted to this project and he’s been able to get some amazing locations.   They’ve been working 16-18 hour days.” One of the exterior scenes was shot outside Metamorphosis Salon on Elm Street in Sisters with a dozen crew members fulfilling various sound and lighting duties.   

A 14-foot length of dolly track laid along the sidewalk provided a smooth platform for the digital camera.   Assistants adjusted sun filters and readied the “mike” boom while crew members whispered in walkie-talkies to unseen ears. Director M. Blash, dressed in a bright red cap and striped shirt, consulted with his team, then squinted into a monitor as they rehearsed a short scene with a young man strolling down the boardwalk and entering the salon.  Co-star Chloe Sevigny, (Boys Don’t Cry, Zodiac,) observed from the sidelines, chatting on her cell phone and enjoying the abundant sunshine in a summer dress.   The mercurial indie queen has completed all her scenes and has since departed to start filming the upcoming season of Big Love for HBO. 

Sevigny won a Golden Globe last season for her clever turn as the scheming Niki Grant in the hit polygamy series. Salon owner, Tami Jones, said everyone was so friendly and easy to work with.   “Moviemaking is not as glamorous as you’d think,” she said.  “There’s a lot of standing around and waiting.  The actors work hard and I didn’t see anyone fanning them or spooning them caviar.  There were no pretensions or complaining or attitude at all.  Just nice, normal people.”  Jones took over for the head stylist the first week of July. On July 5, the crew was back in action at Lutton’s Ace Hardware on Hood Street after the holiday break, its small convoy of  equipment trucks and makeup trailers scattered around the block.   Lutton’s employee, Ben Bremer, was given a small role as a store clerk. 

“In my scene I was a cashier, and the character played by Luke Grimes was buying something and zoning out and I got his attention,” said Bremer.   “They did six takes or so to get the right staring place for his eyes.  The director wanted me to make sure my angle was correct.  It was really fun to do.” Local music publisher, Michael Cooper, auditioned for the Dad in Candy Store back in June and was awarded the part over more than a dozen actors.  His scene was shot at Powell’s Candy Shoppe, the Wonka-like confection emporium in Bend.  “I played a dad running into a candy store trying to find his son,” Cooper said.  It was a one-day shoot and I got to share the camera with Jena Malone and Luke Grimes.   M. Blash was so professional and gave me line instructions and concentrated on camera angles.  The work was challenging, there’s a lot to keep track of and integrate.  It was a very odd and wonderful thing that came together.   I just hope I don’t end up on the cutting room floor.”

Future of Live Theatre: BEAT

by KELLY EDWARDS for Cascade A&E

The future of live theatre is alive and well…thanks to B.E.A.T. (Bend Experimental Art Theatre). This delightful group of talented individuals, created nearly five years ago by Artistic Director Mary Kilpatrick and Executive Director Howard Schor, serves up season after season of thought-provoking, educational & heartwarming theatre, while at the same time introducing and nurturing local young talent towards the true art of the craft. Yet they go far beyond that…B.E.A.T. is all about sharing and caring as well.

When you enroll and entrust your child to one of their many workshops, you can be sure that they will be guided towards far more than just how to act. B.E.A.T. helps children develop social skills and they work closely with handicapped organizations, insuring that children born with a physical stumbling block can still be active in the arts. (Check out their website for workshop schedules, dates, rates, and their liberal scholarship prograAm). B.E.A.T. is a “Bridge BAuilder’’ within the community associating themselves with not only other theatre houses, but numerous other community organizations. They have recently moved their home base to Maralyn Thoma’s ’2nd St. Theatre’ complex, use the Tower Theatre for their annual A Christmas Carol production and have active programs within the Bend Park & Recreation District and the Bend - La Pine School District.

They have created a theatrical sharing and storage program (for sets, costumes and props) by associating themselves with Ruth and Pierre Mallen, the owners of Wall St. Storage. In addition, B.E.A.T. partnered with CORIL and Full Access Network to bring the community a month of inspirational theater supporting diversity and excellence with their fine presentation of The Boys Next Door. This is what live theatre should be all about! INVOLVING THE WHOLE COMMUNITY. At B.E.A.T. productions this reviewer has been fortunate enough to witness how the eye for detail, commitment to the moment and sheer love of being on stage displayed by the actors are nothing short of magical. You cannot achieve this level of realism unless you have insightful teachers guiding you towards the moment. The rewards of working with the young and challenged are quite evident on stage. These youthful thespians are beaming with pride, the kind of pride they will carry with them into the community and throughout their lives.

What is ART?

"What is art?” That question is addressed and explored in the appropriately entitled play, ART being produced as a benefit for Cascades Theatrical Company by Shore Thing Productions and presented at the Greenwood Playhouse from August 6-15. The debate about what is art has been discussed for generations by generations without a clear cut answer.

Why? It can probably be summed up best in the age old expression: “One man’s junk, is another man’s treasure.” That certainly is the issue at hand for three men who, during the course of the play, discover that each of them interpret a modern painting in completely different ways. As a result, there are strong disagreements among them which jeopardize their fifteen year friendship. At the core of the play’s storyline is the fact that all of us have opinions and, as a result, most of us see things differently. While one person may love a particular movie, television program, restaurant or, yes, even a painting, someone else has a completely different opinion than ours and yet we coexist, or do we?

ART features Joel Clements as Serge, a man steeped in modernity who buys the painting at the center of the controversy within the play. David Simpson is Marc, a friend with a more traditional taste and appreciation of classical art who cannot understand why Serge has spent an exorbitant amount of money on what he see as nothing more than a “white canvas with a few gussied up off-white stripes.” Their mutual friend Yvan (Ron McCracken) seems to have only one aim in life, to be accepted by pleasing those around him. As a result, he finds himself between his two friends, going back and forth on his feelings about the painting, not fully understanding what he likes and why he likes it. ART is directed by Juliah Rae (Steel Magnolias, All My Sons).

The play will have its Central Oregon Premiere on Friday, August 6 at a gala benefit beginning at 6pm at Mockingbird Gallery in Downtown Bend with the opening of an exhibit entitled, The Power of Suggestion featuring the works of artists Steven Lee Adams, Joseph Alleman, H. Shane Ross & Rodd Ambroson. At 6:45pm the festivities will move to the Greenwood Playhouse for a gourmet soirée and silent art auction. The play will begin at 8pm. At the conclusion of the production, there will be a dessert reception with the cast as well as the auction finale. Additional performances will be presented on August 7, 12, 13 & 14 (7:30pm) and August 8 & 15 (2pm). Tickets for the gala are $45. Tickets for all other performances are $15.

CTC Invites Public to Annual Sneak Peek

Cascades Theatrical Company (CTC) Board of Governors and staff cordially invite you to attend their free annual Sneak Peek Event. You may attend August 26, 27, 28 or 29. Each night, the directors of the upcoming shows will tell you a bit about each play, and then actors will do a reading of a scene for you. This year the season includes: Jeffrey Hatcher’s adaptation of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde; Ken Ludwig’s uproariously funny Moon Over Buffalo; Oliver! the musical by Lionel Bart; the timely comedy Distracted by Lisa Loomer; Mitch Albom’s poignant Tuesdays with Morrie and, the comedy Sex, Drugs & Rick ‘n’ Noel by David Tristram.

There will be complimentary appetizers and desserts, as well as a no-host cash bar (wine, beer and champagne). This is a perfect time to get to know the theatre, purchase season passes, become a member or volunteer and be a part of YOUR Community Theatre for our 32nd Season. Cascades Theatrical Company’s Greenwood Playhouse is located at 148 NW Greenwood Avenue, in Bend, between Hill and Harriman streets.

Long Day's Journey Into Night Playing Sold-Out Houses in Sydney

Artists Repertory Theatre and Sydney Theatre Company bring the world-class production of Long Day’s Journey Into Night to Portland, Oregon beginning August 13. The stellar reviews from the smash hit premiere run in Sydney, Australia are now available. “This is a stunning, absorbing production, full of emotional complexity,” John McCallum, The Australian. This Broadway-caliber, international co-production features Australian and American actors of the highest stature.

William Hurt who has a home in Central Oregon and Robyn Nevin lead an Australian and American cast, including Portland actor Todd Van Voris and Australian actors Luke Mullins and Emily Russell, in Eugene O’Neill’s Long Day’s Journey Into Night. The play is directed by Andrew Upton who, together with his wife Cate Blanchett, is Sydney Theatre Company’s Co-Artistic Director. Long Day’s Journey Into Night is considered Eugene O’Neill’s masterpiece play and is a largely autobiographical work of gut-wrenching honesty. Over the course of one fateful day, the Tyrone family (three alcoholics and one morphine addict) sling barbs and reopen old wounds in their seaside Connecticut vacation home.

With heartbreaking humor, the loving yet dysfunctional family battle to unearth and conceal a series of appalling truths to explosive effect. The emotional complexity of this family - gripped with addiction, haunted by the past and paralyzed by the future - delivers staggering insight on the themes of familial resentment, enabling, forgiveness and the bond of abiding love. The cast of Long Day’s Journey Into Night is appearing with the permission of Actor’s Equity Association and the Media, Entertainment, and Arts Alliance pursuant to an exchange program between the two unions.

The Frank Anderson Film
a Labor of Love

A Southern California native, Orit Schwartz spent the first part of her childhood in Israel. She graduated from California State University, Northridge. After spending several years on the production side of sitcoms, where she worked her way up to an associate producer on NewsRadio, she decided to pursue her original goal of writing. She took a writers assistant position on Grounded for Life, which led to a freelance episode that aired in May sweeps, guest starring Ashton Kutcher. Orit, who resides in Bend, is an alumnus of the Warner Bros. Comedy Writers Workshop.

The Frank Anderson is her first venture into the short film world. Frank Anderson (Richard Riehle) has man-boobs. Insurance agent John Simon (Stephen Root) continues to deny Frank his much needed breast reduction procedure. Meanwhile, super-hot Bobbie Lynn (Elena Lyons), is quickly approved for breast enlargements. When Bobbie Lynn takes pity on Frank, John quickly agrees to an exam. During Frank’s exam, Dr. Emily Brice (Jane Lynch) explains to John the importance of approving the reduction. All the while she’s admiring Frank’s magnificent breasts. John, uncomfortable with the love fest between Dr. Brice and Frank’s man-boobs, approves the operation.

Frank walks into John’s office with Bobbie Lynn. Bobbie has convinced Frank that his man-boobs are awesome! They walk out all over each other. John, dumbfounded at losing the super-hot woman to a man with man-boobs, consults with Dr. Julia Seales (Romy Rosemont) about getting a set of his own. “We made this short film for under $5,000,” explains Orit. “It was a true labor of love.”

The Frank Anderson played 43 film festivals, including BendFilm and has won six awards. “The Frank Anderson has been an interesting ride.  I was told going into it that I’ll live with this short a long time, I didn’t realize it would be this long...  but it paid off,” says Orit. The film is being aired on Logo TV Directv, Ch. 272 and dish HD Platinum, Ch 373 (part of the MTV networks). In addition to airing the full 13 minute short, it’ll also be available free online. www.TheFrankAnderson.com

Summer is Movie Time at The Tower

This summer, bring the kids and family to experience “movie night” at the historic Tower Theatre in downtown Bend. As part of its continuing collaboration with area nonprofits, the Tower will screen four films to help support several local causes and organizations. Friday, June 11, Camp Fire USA kicks off the summer with a double-feature of camping classics – Parent Trap (1998; rated PG) and Meatballs (1979; rated PG). Proceeds benefit Camp Fire’s youth and family outdoor programs in Central Oregon.

On Saturday, July 3, Bend’s Independence Day celebrations begin with a performance by the Cascade Horizon Band, a reading of the Declaration of Independence by local civic leaders and media personalities, and an exclusive showing of the musical 1776 (1972; rated G). Sponsored in part by Deschutes Country, this patriotic evening salutes our founding fathers and highlights many of the nonprofit groups who assist and support today’s military veterans. Saturday night, August 21, the hole-in-one comedy classic Caddyshack (1980; rated R) tees off as Jeld-Wen Tradition Week concludes in Central Oregon.

It’s the snobs (Chevy Chase) against the slobs (Bill Murray). Proceeds benefit the Tower Theatre Foundation. The Tower Theatre Foundation owns and operates the historic venue in downtown Bend. The Foundation’s mission is to provide performing arts, civic, educational and social events that enliven and enrich the lives of all Central Oregonians. Program information, group discounts, gift cards and individual tickets are available at the Tower Theatre box office, or at www.towertheatre.org.

Cheaper by the Dozen Presented by BEAT

From the theatrical company that brought you A Christmas Carol, West Side Story and The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, the Bend Experimental Art Theatre presents another comedy to remember—Cheaper by the Dozen. Directed by Dee Torrey, Cheaper by the Dozen offers the engaging and entertaining story of how Frank and Lillian Gilbreth employed their large family to help with their ground-breaking time/motion studies.

The father of twelve, Gilbreth frequently joked that “You know, they come cheaper by the dozen!” The use of the children to develop efficiency standards is framed against a backdrop of coming of age, rebellion, reconciliation, selfishness, sacrifice, love and laughter. Written by Frank Gilbreth Jr. and Ernestine Gilbreth Carey, Cheaper by the Dozen runs from Wednesday, July 7 through Saturday, July 11, at 7pm with Saturday, July 10 and Sunday, July 11 matinee performances at 2pm at the 2nd Street Theatre. Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for children and are available at bendticket.com or 541-419-5558.

Benefit Performance of Lamppost Reunion

TWB Productions announces A Special Benefit Performance July 26 of their ’Pub Theatre’ production of Louis LaRusso’s Lamppost Reunion.   The Tony nominated play is currently being performed twice weekly at McMenamin’s Old St. Francis School, in Father Luke’s Room. The benefit will be for the National Transplant Assistance Fund, to help with the medical and associated costs of a kidney transplant for Bend resident Bonnie Morrissey.  

In the years that Bonnie and Monterey Morrissey have lived in the Central Oregon area, they have been involved in the theatre and performing arts community, both behind the scenes with Film Oregon Alliance, the Tower Theatre and Innovation Theatre Works, and on stage with Around the Bend Radio Theatre and Buckboard Productions.  Bonnie needs a new kidney because of the hereditary Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD) that runs in her family.  She is healthy right now, but doctors anticipate she will need a new kidney in the next few years. 

Donations can be made to her at www.ntafund.org/find-a-patient or call Yoleen Faerber 541-633-9637.  Louis LaRusso’s The Lamppost Reunion is the first production for TWB Productions = Theatre With Beer (and/or Balls), a local, for profit, professional live theatre company whose mission is to introduce live theatre to non-traditional audiences in a relaxed pub setting (meaning eat & drink before, during & after the show).   

Founder Kelly D. Edwards says, “We chose Lamppost Reunion as our first project because it takes place in a bar and thusly is perfect for pub theatre. “McMenamins shares our vision and has actively put forth all of their staff resources at our disposal, insuring for a wonderful experience.“ Tickets for the Monday, 8pm July 26th benefit; available at BendTicket.com in advance at $20 (per person), and $25 (per person) at the door. 100 percent of the proceeds going to Bonnie’s medical expenses through the NTAF. www.bendticket.com

CTC Announces 32nd Season

Cascades Theatrical Company will offer a full season of six shows with season passes available on July 1. Stop by the Greenwood Playhouse for a tour and a brochure.

• Dr. Jekyll & Mr. Hyde Adapted by Jeffrey Hatcher from the novella Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde by Robert Louis Stevenson (October, 2010) A new and shocking version of the classic tale of depravity, lust, love and horror.Dr. Henry Jekyll’s experiments have brought forth his other self—Edward Hyde, a sensualist and villain free to commit the sins Jekyll is too civilized to comprehend. When Hyde meets a woman who stirs his interest, Jekyll fears for her life and decides to end his experiments. But Hyde has other ideas, and so begins the battle to determine who shall be the master and who his slave.

• Ken Ludwig’s Moon Over Buffalo (December 2010) In the madcap comedy tradition of Lend me a Tenor, this farce centers on George and Charlotte Hay, fading stars of the 1950s, now performing in Buffalo, NY. On the brink of a disastrous split-up caused by George’s dalliance with a young ingénue, they receive word that they might just have one last shot at stardom when Frank Capra will come to see their matinee. Unfortunately for George and Charlotte, everything that could go wrong does go wrong.

• Oliver! Music, lyrics and book by Lionel Bart (February, 2011) The beloved musical that vividly brings Dickens’ timeless characters to life, with its ever-popular story of the innocent and lovable orphan boy who asked for more. The sensational score is full of Lionel Bart’s irresistible songs including “Food Glorious Food”, “Consider Yourself”, “You’ve Got to Pick-a-Pocket or Two”, “I’d Do Anything” and many more.

• Mitch Albom’s Tuesdays with Morrie by Jeffrey Hatcher and Mitch Albom (March-April 2011) Sixteen years after graduation, Mitch, a career-driven journalist, happens to catch his former college professor Morrie’s appearance on a television program and learns that he is battling Lou Gehrig’s Disease. Mitch is reunited with Morrie, and what starts as a simple visit turns into a weekly pilgrimage and a last class in the meaning of life.

• Distracted by Lisa Loomer (April-May, 2011). What’s wrong with nine-year-old Jesse? His teacher thinks that it’s ADD, Dad says, “He’s just a boy!” and Mama’s on a quest for answers. A psychiatrist prescribes Ritalin, but surely a pill can’t solve all of his problems. Throughout, Jesse is an offstage voice, becoming louder and angrier, but in danger of fading away. Everyone is distracted, even the actors—they’re breaking character! A hilarious, provocative, and poignant look at a modern family and an epidemic dilemma.

• Sex, Drugs & Rick ‘n’ Noel by David Tristram (June 2011). This smart comedy is the story of Richard Branson, a foundry worker whose wife has left him for another woman. In an attempt to regain his self esteem, Richard takes a history course at Birmingham University. There he meets Noel, another mature age student with an entirely different outlook on life. Together they learn more than either could have imagined possible about life, women and themselves. Not too much about history, though.

Local Theatre Reeking of Talent

by KELLY D. EDWARDS for Cascade AE

This reviewer was able to catch three live theatre shows this June… C.T.C.’s Lend Me a Tenor’, B.E.A.T.’s The Boys Next Door and Rever Theatre Company’s The Laramie Project, (the latter two being performed at 2nd St. Theater). Each of these productions shared a common thread; they were all strong ensemble pieces. Though quite different in their genres, they all were excellently performed! It is exciting to see the quality of live theatre growing in Bend. Each of these productions certainly ‘raised the bar,’ challenging what will be mounted after them.

Of these three productions, my favorite (and this is an extremely hard choice) had to be ‘’C.T.C’s Lend Me a Tenor by Ken Ludwig, masterfully directed by Lilli Ann Linford-Foreman. This is an odd pick for me, as I am not usually a big fan of what I like to refer to as ‘fluff’ theatre, (meaning: light-hearted and amusing, yet lacking any message or social value). Not to say this type of theatre is not popular, it just is not my cup of tea. That being said, Lend Me a Tenor simply BLEW ME AWAY. The cast was so committed and in sync with each other, and to the genre (set in 1934) that I had no option but to surrender to this incredibly fun and entertaining gem of a production.

Set in Cleveland, Ohio the play revolves around renowned tenor Tito Merelli, known to his fans as Il Stupendo, who is scheduled to sing the lead in Othello, produced as a gala fundraiser for the Cleveland Opera Company. Unfortunately, even before the star leaves his hotel room, everything begins to unravel. The outstanding cast features the talents of: Will Futterman, Kelli Kirkman, Rick Jenkins, Robert Waltz, A. Lynn Jesus-Olhausen, Jermaine Golden, Jolie Miller and the exquisite Sherrie Neff. To single out even one cast member’s performance would be unfair to all of them.

This amazing ensemble of eight highly gifted entertainers, truly share the spot-light evenly. They were all superb. The stage reeked of talent. Director Linford-Foreman should be applauded as well for her ability to guide the cast towards such consistent ’on-the-mark’ delivery. Comic timing (in this case, pronounced time-ing) is truly everything in this non-stop, thoroughly enjoyable romp. A special ‘Bravo’ to Stage Manager Jan Smith, whose cameo during the “most unusual curtain call’’ caused both myself and my lovely wife to fall out of our seats laughing. I never thought I’d say (or type) the following words, but here goes… ‘Long Live ‘Fluff’ Theatre!!!’

TWB Productions Continues Popular Lamppost Reunion

TWB Productions is a group of like-minded individuals who have one shared goal, says Producer/Director Kelly Edwards, to do their part towards attracting a new and vibrant audience to all “live theatre’’ venues.  To accomplish this task, they are presenting Bend’s newest ‘’Pub Theatre’’ production- Louis LaRusso’s Lamppost Reunion’ and are showcasing it at Bend’s McMenamins Old St. Francis School. The performance opened in May to rave reviews.  

Lamppost Reunion was nominated for a Tony Award for ‘’Best New Play’’ and for ‘’Lead Actor’’ (Danny Aiello) in (1976). TWB chose this show because it takes place in a bar and is perfect for Pub Theatre.   Yet they had a heck of a time convincing bar owners that they could draw people in on slow nights.Edwards says that McMenamins ‘’got’’ and understood their vision with Sales Manager Cynthia Gozalez welcoming TWB. “All that being said, TWB still had to design and build a functional Bar set” reports Edwards. “This ended up being a challenging adventure. The design had to be sturdy enough to with-stand having to set it up, and break it down nightly, big enough to look like a real ‘’seedy’’ bar in Hoboken N.J. and small enough to break down and fit in a transport trailer

.”We’re really pleased with the results.”

 McMenamins Old St. Francis School
June 6  Sunday (6 pm- doors open at 5 pm)
June 10 Thursday (8 pm -doors open at 7 pm)
June 13 Sunday (6 pm- doors open at 5 pm)
June 14 Monday (8 pm -doors open at 7 pm)
June 20 Sunday (6 pm- doors open at 5 pm)
June 24 Thursday (8 pm -doors open at 7 pm)
June 27 Sunday (6 pm- doors open at 5 pm)
June 28 Sunday (8 pm -doors open at 7 pm)
July 11 Sunday (6 pm- doors open at 5 pm)
July 12 Monday (8 pm -doors open at 7 pm) 
July 18 Sunday(6 pm- doors open at 5 pm)
July 19 Monday (8 pm -doors open at 7 pm) 
July 25th- Sunday (6 pm- doors open at 5 pm)
July 26 Monday (8 pm -doors open at 7 pm)  
Cafe Alfresco, 614 NW Cedar Ave. in Redmand. Special Dinner/Show Performances 541-923-2599June 2 & 3, July 7 & 8 Weds. & Thurs. Cost $45 per person, includes a 3 course “buffet” style meal with beverage (non-alcoholic). Doors open at 5:30pm, dinner 6pm, show 7:30pm. 

Long Day’s Journey into Night at Portland’s Artists Rep

Long Day’s Journey Into Night is bound to be the “hot ticket” in the Pacific Northwest this year. This world-class co-production between Portland’s Artists Repertory Theatre and Australia’s Sydney Theatre Company (STC) stars Oregonians William Hurt and Todd Van Voris, as well as three Australian actors including the legendary Australian actress Robyn Nevin, Luke Mullins and Emily Russell.

The play is directed by Andrew Upton who, together with his wife, actress Cate Blanchett, is STC’s Co-Artistic Director. Long Day’s Journey into Night begins June 29, in Sydney, Australia and August 13 in Portland. The genesis for this production came last Spring as a result of discussions between Andrew Upton and William Hurt about their shared passion for this great American classic.

Since playing the role of Edmund Tyrone in 1975 at Oregon Shakespeare Festival, Hurt has avidly hoped to be cast as the patriarch James Tyrone in Long Day’s Journey into Night. As a longtime friend and collaborator of Artists Rep’s Artistic Director Allen Nause, Hurt contacted Nause about co-producing this play with the Australian company. Nause was ecstatic about the opportunity.

“The production of Long Day’s Journey Into Night is an exceptional, unusual opportunity for regional audiences to see a Broadway-caliber theatrical masterpiece such as this,” said Nause. “This is one of the most difficult and complex plays ever written and may well be the most challenging stage role of my friend William’s career.” One of the most powerful and gut-wrenching dramas in American literature, Long Day’s Journey Into Night is Eugene O’Neill’s masterpiece.  The autobiographical story is told with such searing honesty that he stipulated it was not to be published or produced until 25 years after his death. Audiences will be enraptured by the emotional complexity of the Tyrone family – gripped by addiction, shattered by the past and paralyzed by the prospect of the future.

The cast of Long Day’s Journey Into Night is appearing with the permission of Actor’s Equity Association and the Media, Entertainment, and Arts Alliance pursuant to an exchange program between the two unions.

Membership Drive in Full Gear at Tower

The Tower Theatre Foundation’s annual spring membership drive is off to a strong start, and has reached nearly one-third of its goal. The one-month campaign was ignited by a reception on May 2 and launched with emails to nearly 10,000 friends and patrons of the Tower. Last week personalized letters were mailed to current members. “The initial response to our email solicitations was quite strong,” said campaign chair Karen Cammack. “So far, 40 percent of members have renewed or joined online. And we need just 28 more members at the $250 level to meet the Hollern Challenge.”

Longtime Tower supporters Mike and Sue Hollern energized the campaign by giving $5,000 if the Foundation obtains 40 members at the $250 level. “This 1-for-2 challenge means your membership dollar goes farther to support our community mission,” Cammack explained. “$5,000 becomes $15,000 when we get 40 members at $250 each.” The May campaign theme is “Tower Membership: The Best Act in Town.” The double meaning is intentional. “The Tower brings the best acts in the world to Bend,” says Kim Medford, acting chair of the Tower Theatre Foundation, “and the act of becoming a Tower member says ‘yes’ to the improved quality of life those performing artists bring to our community, and helps the Tower provide the perfect venue for other local nonprofit organizations to stage their own ‘acts’ of community outreach.”

Memberships start at $75 per household, and feature advance notice of upcoming shows, ticket discounts, and members-only receptions and events. New this year is the Marquee Club—a special package of year-long offers and discounts from a select group of downtown merchants to Tower members of $500 or more per household. Details on membership levels and benefits are at www.TowerTheatre.org, lisa@towertheatre.org, or 541-317-0700. The campaign ends June 6.

Lend Me a Tenor at CTC

Cascades Theatrical Company presents Ken Ludwig’s Lend Me a Tenor. This is the hilarious comedy currently on Broadway with three Tony Award nominations, including one for Best Revival of a Play. The show (here in Bend) is directed by Lilli Ann Linford-Foreman, assisted by Audrey Colton Smith. The cast includes Will Futterman, Jermaine Golden, Rick Jenkins, A. Lynn Jesus-Olhausen, Kelli Kirkman, Jolie Miller, Sherie Neff and Robert Waltz.

The opening night performance is followed by a complimentary dessert and champagne reception. For the Saturday, June 19 performance, you will hear a few songs before the show from special guests: the Oregon Children’s Choir Young Men’s Ensemble from Eugene. It’s September 1934, and Saunders, the general manager of the Cleveland Grand Opera Company, is primed to welcome world famous tenor Tito Morelli, to appear for one night only as Otello. The star arrives late and, through a hilarious series of mishaps, is given a double dose of tranquilizers, passes out, and is presumed dead. In a frantic attempt to salvage the evening, Saunders persuades his assistant to go on instead. This madcap, screwball comedy is guaranteed to leave you teary-eyed with laughter.

New Performing Arts Center Hosts KIDS Stage Production

The new Bend Performing Arts Center will host this year’s KIDS Stage Production Class!  The class, for ages 7-10, will give participants the opportunity to experience all the excitement of putting on a stage musical. Former artistic director of Children’s Music Theatre Group, Nancy Engebretson will lead the class. She will be joined by CMTG graduate Scott Carroll, now attending the University of Oregon School of Music. The workshop culminates with a production of the musical 101 Dalmatians, which will be presented for an audience of family and friends complete with music, costumes, sets and lights. Register for the Kids Stage Production Class through the Bend Parks and Recreation Department. register.bendparksandrec.org or call 541-389-7275 KIDS Stage Performance Workshop for ages 7-10. The Bend Performing Arts Center, 1155 SW Division Street, South of Reed Market Road, off 3rd street, in Scandia Square, next to the school of Ballet. June 21- July 2, Monday through Friday 9:30am-12:30pm

High Desert Belly Dance Premiers Film Belly

On May 8, the High Desert Belly Dance Guild will host a fundraiser at the St. Charles Medical Center for Health and Learning, featuring a Gala Central Oregon Premiere of the documentary Belly. This is an opportunity for community members to come out for an evening of fine food, live belly dance performances, and a film which explores why women across the world all find this art form so meaningful and powerful. Belly by Cecilia and Chad Rinn is an intimate peek into the personal lives of several belly dancers who have been profoundly affected by this unique dance form.

Belly dancing fits into each of their lives in different ways, but the one thing they all have in common is that belly dancing helps them face the challenges and celebrate the joys of their lives. The premiere will include the screening of Belly, tasty catered Middle Eastern hors d’oeuvres, and live performances by Rasha, The Bijou Project, Jerusha, Sahirnee, Cecilia Rinn, Sahara’s Dream, Nalia & Tasmeen of Raqsafara, Kathy Stahlman & Marina.

Actors Realm
Classes Resume at BendPAC

The Actors Realm, a weekly actors studio, will resume classes every Tuesday at 6:30pm at their new location. Bend Performing Arts Center (BendPAC) at 1155 SW Division is now the new home for the Actors Realm and Volcanic Theatre. Derek Sitter, instructor, actor, and director, plans to offer Saturday mornings for members unable to attend on Tuesday nights. Classes are $100 a month or $30 sessions. The Actors Realm serves as an acting studio where the emphasis is on coaching students to find their innate talent by learning the craft and artistry of Acting.

It offers ongoing classes with a focus on stage performance, and periodic workshops on additional topics. Classes include vocal and physical warm-ups, acting exercises, and scene and character development. The result is that the students learn to connect with their voice, be in the moment, and develop characters that are vital and uniquely their own. Actors Realm partners with Volcanic Theatre to provide material for further development, as well as opportunities for performance.  541-215-0516, derek@actorsrealm.com

May is Membership Month at Tower
Goal is 450 members

The Tower Theatre Foundation’s annual spring membership drive is getting a makeover and a boost this year. The normally two-month campaign to recruit and renew members by mail and phone calls is instead being conducted by email during the month of May. And the effort is getting a shot in the arm with a $5,000 matching challenge from a prominent community member and longtime Tower supporter.

“We decided to cast an electronic net as wide and far as possible by using personalized emails,” explained campaign chair Karen Cammack. “Our goal is to increase our membership by 15 percent to 450 members. Basically, lots of friends of the Tower are asking all their friends to support the Tower. They’ll help us tell the story of how the Tower Foundation is the nonprofit that offers a stage—literally—to other nonprofits for their own shows and fundraising. “How the price of a ticket doesn’t cover the cost of programming or our educational outreach in the community.

How memberships make possible the Tower’s community mission, and help us support dozens and dozens of area nonprofits who use the Tower to showcase their own mission,” Cammack concluded. Memberships start at $75 per household, and feature advance notice of upcoming shows, ticket discounts, and members-only receptions and events. New this year is the Marquee Club—a special package of year-long offers and discounts from a select group of downtown merchants to Tower members of $500 or more per household. The May campaign theme is Tower Membership: The Best Act in Town. The double meaning is intentional.

“The Tower brings the best acts in the world to Bend,” says Kim Medford, acting chair of the Tower Theatre Foundation. “And the act of becoming a Tower member is saying ‘yes’ to the improved quality of life those performing artists bring to each of us and our community.” Longtime Tower supporters Mike and Sue Hollern hope to energize both the membership campaign and the many patrons of the Tower by giving $5,000 if the Foundation obtains 40 members at the $250 level. “This 1-for-2 challenge means your membership dollar goes farther to support our community mission,” Cammack explained. “$5,000 becomes $15,000 when we get 40 members at $250 each.” Details on membership levels, benefits, and limited-time incentives are at www.TowerTheatre.org, lisa@towertheatre.org or 541-317-0700.

Lucky Hudson & the 12th Street Gang

Bend Theatre for Young People’s Junior Play Production class begins Tuesday, April 6. Join in the fun this spring with a who-dunnit detective caper. Combining the fundamental elements curriculum, voice and diction, expressive body movement and building a believable character, students will rehearse and perform an age-appropriate play. Casting limited to the first 20 students. No experience is necessary but attendance is mandatory: April 6-May 29, Rehearsals: Tuesdays & Thursdays, 4–5:30pm at Greenwood Playhouse at CTC. Grades: 3 – 8 , Instructor Gary Bowne, Tuition: $170 Performances set for May 28, 7pm, Saturday, May 29, 1pm. www.bendtheatre.org, 541-419-1395.

Bike Films Wanted for Bend Bicycle Film Festival

Local filmmakers and photographers are invited to submit their films for consideration in the second annual Bend Bicycle Film Festival slated for May 22 at the Tower Theatre, 4pm. The fundraising event is part of a full weekend of biking activities including a Volunteer Trail Work Party for Central Oregon Trail Alliance followed by a BBQ and awards ceremony. “Last year, we raised $3,500 for Central Oregon Trail Alliance and the Bend Cycling Club and we debuted a full-length mountain biking feature film” said Paul Lissette, festival organizer. To that end, the Bend Bicycle Film Festival has issued a 2010 Call for Submissions. To be considered for the Bend Bicycle Film Festival, the short film must have something to do with cycling, and it must have a local connection, however tenuous. Artistic and outside-the-box submissions are encouraged. Submission guidelines have been posted to the organizations website. www.BendBicycleFilmFestival.com.

Craig Richards' Screenplay Finalist
at Beverly Hills Film Festival

Bend resident Craig Richards is an award-winning Hollywood producer, director and actor of more than 30 years. Now he’s appended his already-long title with “screenwriter” with the news that, on March 14, his very first screenplay became a finalist in the Beverly Hills Film Festival’s Golden Palm Screenplay Competition. Richards remarked, “Although I’ve written radio and television commercials as well as for print and the web for decades, this is my first attempt at writing a screenplay -- I feel both excited and humbled that people are responding so enthusiastically to my work!” Richards researched and wrote the 110-page screenplay in six weeks starting August 2009 and, if produced, Hawaiian Vacation will be the first film in the Warner Bros. “Vacation” series since 1997. “My screenplay is a reboot of the film series originally created by the late John Hughes with his short story Vacation ‘59 published by National Lampoon magazine.” An all-new cast is planned for the roles of Clark, Ellen, Rusty and Audrey and this installment would feature more action, broader family-friendly appeal and would be more of an ensemble type of story in which more of each of the family member’s stories are revealed. Additionally, two more storylines have been developed for a new trilogy: Alaskan Vacation and Caribbean Vacation.Richards’ screenplay for Hawaiian Vacation has drawn the attention of agents for Jason Bateman (Couples Retreat, Hancock, Arrested Development) and Leslie Mann (Funny People, Knocked Up, The 40 Year Old Virgin) who are in discussions for the roles of Clark Griswold and Ellen Griswold, respectively. Richards plans to direct. This new film tells the story of Clark Griswold, desperate to reconnect his family after six years of neglect while earning his degree, decides what they all need is the ultimate family vacation -- a Hawaiian cruise.

She Stoops to Conquer, or The Mistakes of a Night at CTC

Cascades Theatrical Company presents She Stoops to Conquer, or The Mistakes of a Night by Oliver Goldsmith. The show is directed by Brian Johnson. The cast includes: Gordon James Asti, Emily Brown, Jenn Copsey, Will Futterman, Isaac Granberry, Jessica Haverly, James Lewis, Tanner Lussier, Ron McCracken, Jolie Miller, Caleb Neet, Thea Rhiannon, David Roepke, Erik Valenti, Ky Wentworth and Jesse Whitson. Aristocrats, commoners, and more than one case of mistaken identity highlight this boisterous comedy of manners with its hilarious take on social class, love and trickery.  Sparks fly when young urbanite Charles Marlow arrives at a country estate to court the lovely Kate Hardcastle. He is threatened and uncontrollably shy around upper-class women (while, of course, completely the opposite with the “lower-class” girls). When Marlow mistakes her father for an innkeeper and her for a saucy barmaid, Kate soon realizes that she must “stoop to conquer” to woo him. Good-natured hijinks and grand pretensions abound in this frothy romp that pits town against country and parent against child.

There's No Place Like Home for Innovation Theatre Works

It has been two years since Chris Rennolds and Brad Hills, two lifelong theatre veterans, had this crazy idea for a professional theatre in Bend. The pair, with more than 60 years of professional experience between them, was excited about what a year round professional theatre, like the Oregon Shakespeare Festival in Ashland, could do for Central Oregon. So, in February 2008, they took the leap and gave birth to Innovation Theatre Works, not knowing the labor would be more difficult than they ever imagined.

“It would have been helpful if Wall Street had given us the heads up.,” said Rennolds, “Starting a nonprofit arts organization in this economy has been, well, challenging, to say the least.” “We knew it would be hard,” continued Hills,” but both of us have started theatres before and we were confident we could do it. But, well, timing is everything!” Not that they let any of the challenges dissuade them.

“I don’t know how they have kept going,” said Lawnae Hunter, the board vice president and one of ITW’s very first supporters, “They are so creative and have such a clear vision for what they want to do. They are the real deal! I know how hard things are for everyone right now. I’m in the real estate business (Hunter Properties), but don’t tell Chris and Brad it can’t be done!” “We love Central Oregon and believe that our citizens deserve their own regional professional theatre as much as Seattle or Portland or San Francisco. So many people have relocated here for the quality of life in Bend and we think they should be able to get the beautiful outdoors and great theatre here in their own backyard,” added Rennolds.

Two years have brought accomplishments—productions of Driving Miss Daisy and My Way, both performed at the Tower, were very successful, as were concerts by Broadway star Cindy Benson. And the enthusiastic response from the community has been gratifying. But it was evident that ITW could not grow without a place to call home. “Though we loved working at the Tower, they just don’t have the time for us more than once or twice a year. We need at least a month or six weeks to cast, rehearse and perform a play at this level. Equity actors rehearse seven hours a day , six days a week for 2 1/2 weeks. Then the technical elements need to be added, which takes about a week,” Hills said.

So, the search for a home began in earnest in October 2008. Broker John McGregor of Fratzke Commercial, a “true believer” searched tirelessly for more than a year. “We have looked at warehouse spaces, retail spaces, and churches…even an old mill building, said Rennolds.” But all of these spaces would have required a complete overhaul and that just wasn’t in the budget. Just before Christmas, McGregor found this available space and approached the Nase family, longtime Bend property owners, with the idea of putting it to good use.

They were excited by the idea and worked out a rental structure the group could manage. The former church has so many of the elements needed for the theatre: a 2400 square foot sanctuary space with 28 foot ceilings, movable seating, ADA compliant access and restrooms and a sprinkler system and emergency exits to accommodate a crowd. The convenient location and ample parking made it too good to resist.

“Though this home for ITW is what we dreamed of,” said Hills, “we knew we couldn’t use it 24/7, and thought the right thing to do was to open it up to the community and the Bend Performing Arts Center (BendPAC) was born. In addition to ITW’s professional productions, readings, classes and educational programs we hope to keep the building humming with all kinds of opportunities for local artists. We see music, visual arts, dance, poetry, comedy, storytelling, a performing arts library—anything you can imagine—to have a place to flourish. So, BendPAC will be open to all kinds of organizations with ideas of what they might like to do in the space.”

With the shell ready to go the task now becomes transforming it into a functional theatre. The group hopes to get grants to supplement the individual donors who are contributing to the lighting and sound systems needed. In addition to financial support, the group is reaching out to community business owners to donate their services in-kind. “Local businesses have supported us from the beginning,” said Rennolds. “And we are so grateful to have these wonderful partners: Denfeld Paint, Cascade Publications Inc., Miller Lumber, tbd advertising, Jamison Self Storage, Bend Tel, Mailboxes Etc. on Third, PC Friendly Computer Services, Combined Communications and Taffy Gleason at Bend’s Community Center.

So now, we are reaching out to other businesses for the things we need for this transformation. “Our most urgent need is heating and cooling for the theatre space. Right now it only contains industrial warehouse heaters that create quite a racket when they are on and no AC at all. And the existing heaters are very inefficient making the monthly utility bills out of reach. So, any of the heating and air conditioning companies who want to contribute to the community by using their particular expertise, call us! A nice, efficient, environmentally friendly system would be great. And it’s tax deductible.”

Beyond that, ITW is in great need of a number of things necessary to turn the building and the business into a thriving enterprise.ITW will be publishing a complete list of needs on their website (www.innovationtw.org) and through their e-newsletter and encourage anyone who can to help to get in touch.

Culver Celebrates by Performing
Is There A Doctor in the House?

The City of Culver is celebrating “100 Years of Culver” by holding a special event each month. On March 26th and 27th, local performers will present the hilarious comedy Is There a Doctor in the House? by Tim Kelly. Is There a Doctor in the House? is a comedy farce set in 1910 in Grease Gulch, Nevada. Mayor Canary is plotting to marry his 17-year-old daughter to the oldest, richest man in town who happens to be in bad health; only she has her eyes on a poor cowboy by the name of Lester Goodbe. Suddenly at the wedding, poor Lucy Canary loses her voice just as she is to say, “I do.”

With a team of wild and wacky doctors right out of the Three Stooges, they do all they can to help Lucy regain her voice. Meanwhile, a lazy cowpoke is thrust into the hilarious role of becoming the World’s Greatest Doctor. Director Garreth Davis has extensive experience performing in various productions in both Oregon and Washington with two years aboard the Portland Spirit.

The cast and crew are very dedicated local volunteers who are committed to continuing the volunteer spirit that is evident in Culver’s history. The play is the third centennial event to take place in Culver with additional events scheduled for each month. April is history month; there will be a “Road Rally” on June 19; a Sunrise Parade on the Fourth of July and an “Old Time Fair” scheduled for August 14 and 15. Additional events include a Fiesta in September, an agricultural event in October and a quilt show with a tribute to Veterans in November.

There will be two performances of this laugh out loud, family friendly production. The multi-aged cast of local performers would like to invite you to join us in celebrating “100 Years of Culver” on March 26 and 27 at 7pm in the Culver High School Multipurpose Room. There is no charge to attend and there will be pie and ice cream available. Culver City Hall at 541-546-6494.

Sisters Screening of the International Documentary Challenge

The International Documentary Challenge along with The Sisters Movie House and the Sisters Chamber of Commerce will host a screening in Sisters for Central Oregon participants. This year’s challenge takes place March 4-8 with registration opening on January 8. Sisters screening date is April 22. The Doc Challenge is a timed filmmaking competition where filmmakers have five days to make a short non-fiction film (4-7 minutes.) All of the registered participants make their films during the same time period (March 4-8) and are required to ship the movie by the deadline.

In addition to being restricted on time, the filmmakers must choose between two assigned documentary genres (such as character study, music, first person) and are assigned a specific theme that will influence the content and direction of their film. The top twelve films (determined by a panel of judges) premiere at Hot Docs Canadian International Documentary Film Festival in Toronto, where the winners are announced. Three major awards (with cash prizes) will be presented: The American Documentary/P.O.V. Award, The Documentary Educational Resources (DER) Award Tickets for the screening will be $10 and will be available at the Sisters Movie House after April 1.

Check out www.docchallenge.org, where you can learn more about the event, view films and hear directly from past participants about their exhilarating experiences. 541-549-0251, www.sistersmoviehouse.com IMPORTANT DATES: Final Registration Deadline: March 3 DocChallenge: March 4-8

One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest
Opens at CTC

Cascades Theatrical Company presents One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest by Dale Wasserman, adapted from the novel by Ken Kesey. The show runs for three weeks from February 12-28. The show is directed by Jill Stinson-Littlejohn, assisted by Jane Williamson. The cast includes: Hilda Beltran-Wagner, Jim Bull, Will Futterman, Jermaine Golden, Keely Hansen, Todd Hanson, Rob Jacobs, Justin Matthew Mason, Gary Matlick, Kurin Matter, Liam Mykael O’Sruitheain, David Roepke, Dave Sheldon, Evan Smith, Don Tompos and Rachel Van Meter.

Opening night for this show will include complimentary appetizers prior to the show as well as the usual post-show dessert & champagne reception. A charming rogue contrives to serve a short sentence in an airy mental institution rather than in a prison. This, he learns, was a mistake. He clashes with the head nurse, an uncompromising disciplinarian. He takes over the yard, accomplishes what the medical profession has been unable to do for twelve years, leads others out of introversion, stages a revolt so that they can see the world series on television, and arranges a rollicking midnight party with liquor and chippies. For one offense, the head nurse has him submitted to shock treatment. For the second, the correction is more extreme.

Local Playwright's Production Coming to 2nd Street Theater

2nd Street Theater will host a production of a new play written by local playwright Cricket Daniel this April. Couple Dating is being produced by Daniel and her husband. Daniel is a local stay-at-home mom who originally set out to become a television sitcom writer, but instead found success writing plays. “She’s very funny and talented. She’s found her niche,” said Maralyn Thoma of 2nd Street Theater, which has transitioned from producing plays to renting out its facility for shows.

Daniel got the idea for Couple Dating after seeing a Today Show segment about a husband and wife who went out on “dates” with other couples in an effort to find people they had something in common with and make new friends. Daniel decided to turn the idea into a comedy play, and it has already been produced once at a theatre in Klamath Falls to rave reviews. “It was a huge hit down there,” Thoma said. “I thought it was adorable.” Originally 2nd Street Theater had to turn down Daniel’s play because its schedule was packed, but now is able to host the play, which will be directed by Susan Benson. “Susan Benson is a wonderful director,” Thoma said.

Couple Dating tells the story of a young wife and mother who has grown tired of spending time watching sports with her husband’s drinking buddies. She arranges dinner dates for herself and her husband with three other couples in the hopes that they will hit it off and become friends. “There are definite surprises in the couples,” Thoma said. The play is for mature audiences only.

Tower Theatre Foundation Meets the Challenge

The board of directors of the Tower Theatre Foundation announced it successfully surpassed its goal to raise $150,000 in response to a $50,000 challenge grant from an anonymous donor.  The total raised, including the $50,000 challenge, was $210,000. To earn the $50,000 the Foundation matched it 3 for 1 with gifts from current and new donors.

The Tower Theatre Foundation’s Challenge Campaign Steering Committee, led by co-chairs Win Francis and Steve Magidson, launched the special campaign in late October. Contributions, from pocket change to multi-year pledges, came from more than 350 donors, and as far away as Chicago. Lead gifts of $10,000 or more included the Tower’s board of directors, the Greystone Foundation, the Bend Foundation, Tykeson Family Charitable Trust and Deschutes Brewery.

Campaign steering committee members included Francis, Magidson, Clella Thomas, Patsy Melville and Matthew Bowler, with Eli Ashley as Chair and Bruce Hinchliffe as campaign advisor. Ray Solley, executive director of the Foundation, staffed the committee. Co-chair Francis said, “The recession caused significant reductions in the operating budget of the theatre and necessitated using most of the Foundation’s operating reserve to maintain essential theatre functions and programming. Among the needs these new funds will meet are urgent theatre maintenance, replenishing operating reserves, and enabling the Foundation to continue offering incentives to nonprofits for theatre rental.”

“The campaign’s success ensures the Tower can continue to provide a first-class venue at reduced rental rates to local nonprofits for their own educational or fundraising events,” said co-chair Magidson. “Nearly 50 nonprofits use the Tower every year, ranging from Red Cross to Ronald McDonald House; from Big Brothers, Big Sisters to Boys and Girls Clubs. Each year since re-opening in 2004, 80% of all events at the Tower have been presented by Central Oregon nonprofits,” he added.

Ashley, also chair of the Foundation’s Development Committee, pointed out, “This special campaign was critical to maintaining a strong and financially viable performing arts center that provides so many important functions in the community and serves so many citizens. This funding allows us to now focus on the other core areas of finances through our membership and sponsorship campaigns this spring.  We owe the entire Central Oregon community a big thanks.”

The Tower Theatre Foundation owns and operates the historic venue in downtown Bend. The Foundation’s mission is to provide performing arts, civic, educational and social events that enliven and enrich the lives of all Central Oregonians. www.towertheatre.org

Murder on the Menu to Benefit NeighborImpact

There is Murder on the Menu the evening of February 11 at 6 pm at The Design Center of Redmond. The Celebrated Chef Geoff is preparing to launch another hit TV show, Celebrity Chef. The public is invited to join a cast of crazy chefs for the final round of competition. Presented by The Pampered Chef, The Design Center and Buckboard Murder Mysteries, Murder on the Menu is an interactive murder mystery with proceeds going to benefit the NeighborImpact Food Bank.

If you purchase your ticket in advance the cost is $25 for the first ticket and as an added incentive to buy early, the second ticket is $12.50 or $30 at the door. The Judges (aka the public) can enjoy an extravaganza of food provided by Chef James Laszlo Hanzely and no-host wine and beer provided by WineStyles of Redmond. Everyone who attends is asked to bring a non-perishable food item for the NeighborImpact Food Bank. The Design Center is located at 2127 South Highway 97, Suite 110, Redmond. For more information or to purchase a ticket please contact Angie Standley, The Pampered Chef at 541-633-0297, Buckboard Productions at 541-598-4440 or The Design Center at 541-548-6900.

Harvey at 2nd Street

Just in time for the holidays, 2nd Street Theater presents Harvey by Mary Chase.  Brian Johnson directs this well-loved American classic featuring Jim Lee as Elwood P. Dowd with Susan Benson, Savannah Gardner, Shara Lerman, Annette Mastroleo, Ed Mierjeski, Michael Naylor, Connie Norman, Timothy Pflum and Ed Victor rounding out the cast. 

When Elwood P. Dowd starts to introduce his imaginary friend, Harvey, a six-and-a-half-foot rabbit, to guests at a society party, his sister, Veta, decides to have him committed to a sanitarium to spare her daughter and their family from future embarrassment. When Veta is mistakenly assumed to be on the verge of lunacy, the doctors commit Veta instead of Elwood.  When the truth comes out, the search is on for Elwood and his invisible companion. Bring the entire family for this wholesome tale about love, family and the power of faith. 

Bend Theatre for Young People Christmas Play

Bend Theatre for Young People (BTYP), in partnership with Bend Area Habitat for Humanity, will be presenting a Children’s Holiday Musical entitled Makin’ Room created by Dennis and Nan Allen. The subject of this musical is a very timely one for the present economy. With so many losing their houses, it is important for us to be given a chance to walk in someone else’s shoes as the lyrics in one of the songs in the musical addresses. Habitat for Humanity’s program is based on the premise that everyone deserves a safe and affordable place to call home.

The children in this musical perform as advocates in Habitat for Humanity’s efforts. Fourteen children, ages ranging from 8 to 12, sing and dance their hearts out as they discover that while filming a video for a fund raiser, they lose track of the true reasons for their actions, and then are brought back to reality when one of their cast members, loses their apartment and is left homeless. Director Thiel Larson is a veteran music teacher. Over the years, Larson has produced scores of plays for various elementary schools and churches throughout Central Oregon. All proceeds will be donated to Bend Area Habitat for Humanity.

Christmas Belles at CTC

Cascades Theatrical Company presents the holiday comedy Christmas Belles” by Jessie Jones, Nicholas Hope and Jamie Wooten December 4-20. The show is directed by Dee Torrey. The cast includes: Michael Coffman, Kymberli Colbourne, Maddie Dunkelberg, Will Futterman, Jermaine Golden, Justin Matthew Mason, Jolie Miller, Gwen Regina, Janis Sharpe, Audrey Colton Smith, and Monica Torrey. The opening night performance is followed by a complimentary dessert and champagne reception. Y’all come down to the Greenwood Playhouse!

A church Christmas program spins hilariously out of control in this Southern farce about squabbling sisters, family secrets, a surly Santa, a vengeful sheep and a reluctant Elvis impersonator. In the small town of Fayro, Texas, the Futrelle Sisters—Frankie, Twink and Honey Raye—are not exactly in a festive mood, when Frankie lets slip a family secret that has been carefully guarded for decades. All hope for a successful Christmas program seems lost, but the sisters manage to present a show Fayro and the audience will never forget.

2nd Street to Open Evil Dead,
the Musical

Based on Sam Raimi’s ‘80’s cult classic films, Evil Dead, the musical (books and lyrics by by George Reinblatt and music by Frank Cipolla, Christopher Bond, Melissa Morris, George Reinblatt, additional Lyrics by Christopher Bond/additional Music by Rob Daleman) tells the tale of five college kids who travel to a cabin in the woods and accidentally unleash an evil force. Although it may sound like a horror, its not! The songs are hilariously campy and the show is bursting with more farce than a Monty Python skit. Evil Dead, The Musical unearths the old familiar story: boy and friends take a weekend getaway at abandoned cabin, boy expects to get lucky, boy unleashes ancient evil spirit, friends turn into Candarian Demons, boy fights until dawn to survive. As musical mayhem descends upon this sleepover in the woods, camp takes on a whole new meaning with uproarious numbers like All the Men in my Life Keep Getting Killed by Candarian Demons Look Who’s Evil Now and “Do the Necronomicon. Contains Adult language and graphic scenes, not suitable for children. 

Mafioso Murders to Benefit the Center Foundation

The Center Foundation Board of Directors have set its annual themed costume party for October 24 at the 7th Mountain Resort beginning at 6pm. This important event is the major fundraiser for The Center Foundation which provides sports medicine and ImPACT Concussion Services to area high school athletes, brain and spinal cord injury prevention curricula and free helmets to 1-3rd grade students and a significant scholarship program for outstanding high school students. Titled Toast to Mystery….murder in little Italy, this year’s event will feature Buckboard Productions and a murder mystery dinner theater set in the 1920s and prohibition is still in effect. The ruling mob family, the Calzones, is run by its aging leader, the infamous Giuseppe Calzone, better known as the Godfather. The family deals in just about everything profitable including bootlegging, prostitution, gambling, fur, jewels and recently opened a pizza delivery racket. Although everyone respects the orders of the Godfather (they don’t have much choice), most of them wish he would pass the torch or be replaced by someone younger who would allow them to expand. Everyone has been invited to help celebrate the Godfather’s 75th birthday. The event has been organized by his simple minded and over protected daughter, Tootsie. There are sure to be lots of friends (and enemies) along with bodyguards and family. In fact, everyone wants to give the Godfather what he deserved, a big birthday bash that he will never forget. With such a perfect party planned for the Godfather, how could anything possibly go wrong? You’ll have to be one of the guests to find out. The interactive mystery play will be interwoven throughout the evening events that include a social hour, three course Italian dinner, and limited live auction. Information: The Center Foundation at 541/322-2399

Mousetrap Opens 31st Season at CTC

Cascades Theatrical Company presents Agatha Christie’s The Mousetrap from October 23-November 8. The show is directed by Lana Shane, assisted by Jordan Parsons. The cast includes Gordon Asti, Giancarlo Caccamo, Julie Coburn, Jim Mortenson, Caleb Neet, Brandy Philip, Henry Steelhammer and Monica Torrey. The opening night performance is followed by a complimentary dessert and champagne reception. A group of strangers are stranded in a boarding house during a snowstorm. One is a murderer, another, a victim. The suspects include the newlyweds who run the house, a spinster with a curious background, an architect who seems better equipped to be a chef, a retired Army major, a strange little man who claims his car has overturned in a snowdrift, and a jurist who makes life miserable for everyone. Into their midst comes a policeman. To get the rationale of the murderer’s pattern, the policeman probes the background of everyone present, and rattles a lot of skeletons.

CTC Launches Nightvisions Series with Tintar Isle

Cascades Theatrical Company launched its NightVisions Series late last month with Tintar Isle. This one-of-a-kind theatrical experience created such a buzz that it has been extended for two additional performances in October. Tintar Isle, a one-man, not-for-kids, all-original storytelling show, written and performed by Guy J. Jackson, is lucid, loopy, and life-affirming. His stories brim with charming characters, wicked humor, and great hopes for humanity. Jackson has returned to Bend fresh from three years of performing in Britain, where he was featured on BBC Radio One, had four consecutive shows on Resonance Radio, performed with the London Sinfonietta as part of the Orange/Myspace Unlit Tour, and was part of the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, the Camden Fringe Festival, the Hay Literary Festival, and the Latitude Festival. Prior to London, he lived in San Francisco, where he did a year-long stint as the host of The Purple Friday Show at the legendary Purple Onion.

BendFilm Opening Night/Film Oregon Alliance Presents Industry Showcase

Film Oregon Alliance (FOA) is teaming up with the 2009 BendFilm Festival to showcase the region’s filmmaking resources and infrastructure on the festival’s opening night. The FOA Industry Showcase is on Thursday, October 8, 6-8pm at the Tower Theatre in Bend. Following the Industry Showcase, BendFilm will kick off the film festival with the opening night film. Film Oregon Alliance: FOA is an all volunteer, non-profit trade and economic development organization based in Bend. Its mission is to promote the region’s vast resources to draw more film, television and media production to the region and to provide decision makers with the information and infrastructure they need to bring their productions here thus putting more people to work and growing the economy.

“FOA is exited to present this special event where all of the region’s top media production companies will be in action with a live production set at The Tower Theatre,” states Stan Roach, FOA president. “BendFilm is very enthusiastic about the 2009 film festival and the innovative, exciting opening night event planned by FOA. The atmosphere of opening night should be electric!” said Jim Bailey, president of BendFilm. “The event will be captured via live camera feeds and edited in post-production to produce a powerful marketing/promotional video that can be used by FOA, BendFilm, contributors and sponsors,” states Monterey Morrissey VP of FOA.

The action and excitement will be captured in front of The Tower by Fluid Images Technocrane. Rage Productions will have their RED Camera in operation with live feed cams, regional location videos and intimate interviews with filmmakers and VIP’s will help capture reactions and comments from both filmmakers and guests. “We’ll roll out the Red Carpet for attendees and frame the filmmaker’s arrival complete with paparazzi leading to this special event,” Roach continues. “It’s all about filmmaking and creating a great environment for the visiting film- makers and attendees, while promoting the region’s media resources from camera cranes to craft services. This is an opportunity to make a great impression.”

A partial list of sponsors for this event are: Governors Office of Film and Television, Fluid Images, Rage Productions, Blue Screen Video Productions, Leonardi Media Arts and Studio Seven Productions. Vince Porter, executive director for the Governors Office of Film and Television as well as Academy Award winning cinematographer, Thomas Del Ruth ASC, will also be on hand to welcome filmmakers and attendees. Information: FOA President, Stan Roach at 541/771-5440. Tickets: 541/388.3378 or www.bendfilm.org.

Camp Westward Ho! features Arts-at-the-Heart-History & Barn Theatre

Heritage Theatre Company, in partnership with Bend Metro Parks and Recreation, is offering a unique theatre camp in August at Hollinshead Barn. Campers will explore the ever-movin’ frontier through rotating activities in music, dance, acting, rehearsals, visual arts, crafts and living history experiences. The camp culminates in the favored performance medium of the 19th century, the variety show, as the campers move from coast to coast through an American song, drama and dance extravaganza.

The staff of artist/teachers is led by the company’s artistic director, Janet Kingsley. Heritage Theatre Company recently co-produced the musical “Quilters” with Sisters Outdoor Quilt Show as part of its 2009 season of theatre devoted to American history. The camp is for children entering 1st through 5th grades and is offered in two one-week sessions from Mon. through Fri. from 10am till 3pm. Session one: August 17-21; Session two: August 24 – 28. Register with Bend Metro Parks and Recreation: 389-7275. Information: Heritage Theatre Company: 541/306-6751 / 541/788-1220/ htc@bendbroadband.com/ heritagetheatrecompany.org

Steel Magnolias at 2nd Street

This award-winning comedy by Robert Harling is directed by Juliah Rae, assisted by Jenny MacKenzie and features the talented cast of Susan Benson as Clairee, Jenn Copsey as Shelby, Deborah Feffer as M’Lynn, Rickey Minder as Annelle, Lynn Talbot as Ouiser and Ellen Valway as Truvy.  Steel Magnolias follows the ladies of Chinquapin, Louisiana over the course of two and a half years. 

Set in Truvy’s beauty salon, where all the ladies who are “anybody” come to have their hair done.  Truvy is helped by her eager assistant and newcomer, Annelle.  The outspoken and wise-cracking Truvy dispenses shampoos and free advice to the town’s ladies; the rich curmudgeon, Ouiser, an eccentric millionaire, Miss Clairee, and the local social leader, M’Lynn, whose daughter, Shelby, is about to marry a “good ole boy.”

BendFilm Expands Its Series to Sisters

For the first time ever, Bend will present indie films not only in Bend, but in Sisters as well. In addition to screening over 80 films in three venues and five screens throughout Bend on October 8-11, BendFilm and the Sisters Movie House will be working together and present “BendFilm in Sisters” on October 9-11. The film lineup for BendFilm in Sisters will begin screening on Friday, October 9 with an encore presentation of the BendFilm opening night movie.

Saturday, October 10 will be a day of BendFilm movies specifically chosen with the Sisters crowd in mind. BendFilm in Sisters will conclude on Sunday, October 11 with a Best of the Best program consisting of films which were awarded prizes at the BendFilm Award Ceremony being held in Bend on Saturday, October 10. Community events and parties surrounding the Festival are in the works. If you are interested in becoming a volunteer or sponsor of the BendFilm in Sisters, or if you have questions, contact Terri Mintz, director of operations of BendFilm 541/ 388-3378, info@bendfilm.org.

Film Oregon Alliance Logo/Image Contest Set

Film Oregon Alliance (FOA) needs a great new logo/image design to enhance the new feature rich www.filmoregon.org website and to improve all other aspects of marketing Central Oregon as a production ready destination. You or anyone you feel is qualified to design a new logo/image qualifies. Feel free to be creative and think of how you’d brand FOA.  Minimum design elements should include: Organization Name: Film Oregon Alliance Website URL: www.filmoregon.org File types: Hi-rez jpg and print quality file types.

Feel free to suggest a tag line or any other branding elements. Mission Statement for your reference:FOA’s purpose is to support and serve the Oregon film, broadcast and media production communities and facilitate more work in the Central Oregon region. FOA strives to promote the region’s filmmaking and support services as well as develop Central Oregon as a destination to serve the greater industry.

The FOA mantra is Unite, Promote, Educate, Grow. Unite. Facilitate lasting alliances with individuals and organizations and bring the industry’s talent and resources together as an organized and accessible infrastructure. Promote. Market the region’s talent and resources on a national basis through web-based marketing and virtual showcasing to all those who make decisions on where to locate a production. Educate. Inspire educational outreach opportunities including lectures, seminars and hands-on workshops presented by working professionals and industry experts. Grow. Develop a stronger industry infrastructure, attract investment from outside the region, create more commercially viable projects, and generate more economic activity for the region.

To participate submit your concept to contact@filmoregon.org no later than July 15, 2009. Designs will be reviewed by creative industry professionals and the FOA board of directors will chose the top three designs and a winner will be selected. The winning design and the two runner-ups will be announced at the FOA mixer on July 22 and via media release/announcement and social networking sites.  

The winner will receive:
• $50 Gift Card to the restaurant of your choice.
• The FOA Creative Design Excellence Award presented by the FOA board.
• One-year premium subscription to www.filmoregon.org ($100 Value)
• Free entry to all FOA events for one year including workshops ($$$)
• Credits on the www.filmoregon.org home page for one year. (great exposure)
• A free premium website ad for you and/or your company. ($250)
• The winner will be announced to all subscribers, media and industry contacts. (invaluable)
• The winning design will submitted to the AdFed of Central Oregon Drake Awards. (Prestige)

All prizes will be awarded to one person only. What a great way to get your name and design work in front of thousands of people upon the launch of the new website as well as all of the marketing materials and announcements. By submitting your designs you agree that all designs submitted will be the property of Film Oregon Alliance. Information: Monterey Morrissey Monterey@filmoregon.org or Stan Roach Stan@filmoregon.org.

BendFilm Offers 72 House Shoot Out

BendFilm announced its new community event: The 72 Hour Shoot Out. Open to all members of the community and featuring categories for both students and adults, this event will occur over the course of three weeks in July. On July 9 BendFilm will host a panel discussion featuring local filmmakers, who will lecture and answer questions regarding various filmmaking aspects.

On July 17 this knowledge will be put to the test when participants will receive a topic and be given 72 hours to film, edit and submit a completed short film to BendFilm. On July 30 BendFilm will host a mini- film festival at McMenamins Old St. Francis School, featuring the top submitted films. The cost of participating in the 72 Hour Shoot Out, including admission to the lecture and one ticket to the festival, is $10. Tickets to the screening will be available to the public at the door for $3.

This event is open to everyone and films will be judged on originality, use of topic, cinematography, editing, story and a number of other film related categories. Whether you shoot your short film on your cell phone camera or with sophisticated equipment, if you can burn your film onto a DVD, your film will be eligible and you are encouraged to participate. Terri Mintz, Director of Operations, BendFilm, 541/ 388-3378, info@bendfilm.org.

Red Herring Returns to CTC

Red Herring Returns to CTC Michael Hollinger’s comedy Red Herring is BACK by popular demand. If you missed this hilarious and smart show during CTC’s dinner theatre presentations at Five Pine Lodge & Conference Center in Sisters and Bend Golf & Country Club earlier this year, you have the perfect opportunity to see the show (without dinner) this summer. The show is directed by Lilli Ann Linford-Foreman.

The cast of six who play a total of 18 characters includes: Tina Borders, Joshua Budish, Don Delach, Jim Mortenson, Kit Foreman, and Lana Shane. Three love stories, a murder mystery and a nuclear espionage plot converge in this fable about marriage and other explosive devices. It is 1952: America is on the verge of the H-bomb, Dwight Eisenhower is on the campaign trail, and I Love Lucy is on Monday nights. Meanwhile, Senator Joe McCarthy’s daughter just got engaged to a Soviet spy, and detective Maggie Pelletier has to find out who dumped the dead guy in Boston Harbor – or else lose out on a honeymoon in Havana. A blunt-nosed, sharp-eyed and entertaining look at love and tying (untying and re-tying) the knot.

Steel Magnolias at 2nd Street

2nd Street opens Steel Magnolias by Robert Harling in August. Directed by Juliah Rae, this comedy follows the ladies of Chinquapin, Louisiana over the course of two and a half years.  Set in Truvy’s beauty salon, where all the ladies who are “anybody” come to have their hair done.  Helped by her eager new assistant, Annelle, the outspoken, wise-cracking Truvy dispenses shampoos and free advice to the town’s ladies: the rich curmudgeon, Ouiser, an eccentric millionaire; Miss Clairee, who has a raging sweet tooth and the local social leader, M’Lynn, whose daughter, Shelby, is about to marry a “good ole boy.”

Triage Performs at 2nd Street Theatre

Local improv group performs three shows; July 10, 24 and August 7 at 7:30pm at 2nd Street Theater. Get your laugh injection with Triage, a local theatrical group specializing in the art of  improvisational comedy and beyond.  Characters and scenes are created from audience suggestions and participation, in the style of “Whose Line is it Anyway?”  Triage has appeared at several venues throughout Central Oregon, spreading the joy of improvisational comedy to the high desert.  It’s never the same show twice.

photo by Byron Roe

Ray Solley Speaks Out
on Tower Theatre

The new director of the Tower Theatre in Bend, Ray Solley, shares his insight with Cascade A&E on the status of the Tower as it enters its sixth year of opening since being refurbished under a major community-based fundraising effort.

Q. How long have you been on the job now and what are the main challenges and opportunities at the Tower?
I’ve been working with the Tower staff and board since the beginning of the year. In mid-April, I finished the transition from running the nonprofit Cultural Arts Center Foundation in Torrance, California to heading the Tower Theatre Foundation. The civic leaders, businesses, sponsors and patrons in Bend have made me feel so welcome I feel like I’ve been here forever! In early May, we had a day-long staff retreat to tackle head-on the challenges and opportunities facing the Tower. So your question is a timely one. The number of programs at the theatre has doubled since it was renovated and re-opened in 2004. That also means it is now time to upgrade or replace a variety of items – from sound equipment to box office computers – ensuring the Tower retains its well-deserved reputation as the premier venue for the performing arts in Central Oregon. With 465 seats, ticket sales alone cannot cover the ever-increasing costs of presenting a show. It is not possible to expand the theatre. So we must continue to solicit memberships, sponsors and in-kind underwriting to cover the gap, keep ticket prices low and our educational outreach strong. The biggest opportunities facing the Tower all involve programming. If we increase and improve our financial “cushion,” we can then expand the types of shows we present, and broaden our appeal to Oregonians of every age, taste, and income level. Wouldn’t it be wonderful to have kids, families and adults all across the county say, “Oh yeah, I went to a show at the Tower this year.”

Q. Give a brief report/update on the Tower’s financial picture.
Put simply, 20 percent of the Tower’s operating budget comes from individual, personal memberships; 20 percent comes from sponsorships, corporate donations, and business memberships; 60 percent comes from ticket sales, rental fees and grants. Our annual spring membership campaign is in full swing. It began April 1 with a direct mailing to 1,800 supporters. During May we reached out to every patron whose membership had lapsed or was ready to be renewed. Plus, we held a special reception to honor and recruit Tower Circle members (those who donate $1,000 or more). In June, we go after new members. You know, 50,000 people a year use the Tower Theatre. Yet we have about 400 members. We’re contacting the rest by phone and email to say, “If you use it, help pay for it.” It’s like getting cultural arts on the honor system. A $250 membership costs only $4.80 a week. That’s less than two lattes at Starbucks!

Q. Who is using the Tower?
What I love about running the Tower is seeing the wide variety of people who attend its wide range of programs. Our full houses recently ran the gamut – from fly fishing movie enthusiasts to guitar virtuoso devotees, from fans of iconic Leon Redbone to followers of the ironic Capitol Steps. We are actively booking the Tower for forums, seminars and lectures. It’s the perfect place to see a business PowerPoint presentation on the big screen, or hear Bill Gates, Sr. in an intimate, public setting.

Q. Are there any particular volunteers / contributors you would like to acknowledge or recognize that are big supporters of the Tower?
So many people play a part in the success of the Tower that it’s very difficult to single anyone out. It is through the support of many, not one individual or organization that we are able to succeed. That fact is echoed in our current membership campaign: “We can’t start the show without you.” Also, we receive a tremendous amount of support from businesses throughout Central Oregon. So, we just launched a new Corporate Circle membership with customized benefits just for businesses. The Tower, combined with our website, is a great platform for someone looking to connect their company with the best performing artists – and audiences – in the region.

Q. Just a couple of months ago downtown Bend seemed to be dying, now, it’s seeing a resurgence. What role is the Tower playing in that?
The Tower Theatre has been THE local habit for three generations, making entertainment memories since 1940. It’s hard – even painful – to imagine downtown Bend without that 67-foot tower. We’re increasing our involvement with downtown businesses, visitors and locals. June 18, celebrate Downtown Bend’s “Girls Night Out” by attending a preview of My Way: The Music of Frank Sinatra. In August, watch the JELD-WEN Tradition on our really big screen while you enjoy special golf exhibits, food and drinks. And, of course, our 2009-10 season brings some of the best names in music, dance, drama and Broadway to downtown Bend. Plus, I’m working on a “show your ticket stub, get a discount” offer with some of our downtown retail neighbors. All in all, our aim is for the towering symbol of Bend to be an even more active center of social life for all ages and interests. To become of member of the Tower: 541/317-0700, www.towertheatre.org/membership, info@towertheatre.org

CTC Executive Director Retires

CTC Ex. Director Retires Dee Torrey, executive and artistic director for the Cascades Theatrical Company (CTC), announced he will be retiring after the end of this season.  Torrey has been with CTC for eight years, and has been involved in theatre for over fifty years. 

“Dee has been such a huge part of our success here at CTC over the last eight seasons, he will be very sorely missed,” said Jim Palmer, board chair. Torrey’s final production as executive and artistic director will be La Cage aux Folles that will run June 5-28. CTC has also announced that it will not be mounting a full play schedule for the 2009-10 Theatre Season.  According to Palmer, CTC like many other nonprofit organizations has fallen victim of the economic downturn. 

“We are finding that our revenue from ticket sales and donations from sponsors for the new season are both down this year,” Palmer said.  “We can typically cover about 70 percent of our production and operating costs with ticket sales, and the balance has come through gifts from the community.”  Both have seen a decline as a result of the poor economy. Torrey, along with the company’s board of governors, is working on a strategy for weathering this current economic climate in order to return with a full slate of plays once the situation improves. 

For 30 years, CTC has brought Community Theatre to Central Oregon utilizing only volunteer actors, directors, and production personnel.  For many, the CTC stage was their very first experience in the performing arts.  “What is most important,” said Torrey, “is that we maintain this wonderful venue and find a way to keep our Community Theatre going for our acting community, our members, and Central Oregon.”   In addition to mounting a limited number of productions, CTC plans to make its Greenwood Playhouse available to others in the community.  Information: 541/383-2879.

Camp Westward Ho!

Camp Westward Ho! Features Arts-at-the-Heart-History & Barn Theatre Heritage Theatre Company, in partnership with Bend Metro Parks and Recreation, is offering a unique theatre camp in August at Hollinshead Barn. Campers will explore America in the 1800s through rotating activities in music, dance, acting, visual arts, crafts and living history experiences.

The camp culminates in the favored performance medium of the 19th century, the variety show, as the campers move from coast to coast through an American song, drama and dance extravaganza. The staff of artist/teachers is led by the company’s artistic director, Janet Kingsley. The camp is for children entering 1st through 5th grades and is offered in two one-week sessions from Mon. through Fri. from 10am till 3pm. Session one: August 17-21; Session two: August 24 – 28. Register with Bend Metro Parks and Recreation: 541/389-7275. Information: Heritage Theatre Company 541/306-6751 / 541-788-1220/ htc@bendbroadband.com/ heritagetheatrecompany.org